Chapter 10
Shori walked away from his numerous mingling session with a relief sigh. He'd was greatly reminded just why he found this event tedious. All the business talk and opportunities and many attempt to curry favours gets tiresome after a while.
As he passed by, Shori saw Lord Weller was being reintroduced with many important members of their society. Lord Weller smiled ever so politely but from the looks of him, he too found the business talk quite trying.
Their eyes met, and Shori smirked in mirth. He knew with whom Lord Weller was currently chatting with. He was conversing with the head of the accounting department. The man was talking pleasantly but the technical jargon must have fly by Lord Weller, but he hid them well. Shori snickered. Lord Weller looked like he would rather by anywhere but there. Said man had the audacity to roll his eyes at him when he saw his amusement.
Shori eyed Lord Weller's attire with raised eyebrow. His lips curled knowingly. Lord Weller simply eyed him blankly, unimpressed – no doubt – by what Shori found delightful. He simply could not help himself. He found it adorable that his baby brother and his lover wore outfits mirroring each other. It was utterly romantic.
He felt like puking his guts out.
Well, at least he knew why Lord Weller had arrived late to this event. In his defence, he blamed his flight and traffic. It was a logical excuse, but he knew that it has something to do with his baby brother.
And speaking of his baby brother…
Yuri suddenly appeared out of nowhere and accosted him; wasting no time and dragged Shori to a secluded corner at the first opportunity and went straight to the point. "What the hell was that in the room?"
Shori stood there, face blank of any thoughts as he said, "I haven't got the slightest idea what you're on about," Shori tilted his head slightly, musing. "Mind elaborate?"
Yuri gritted his teeth. He was already annoyed at his older brother. Close or not, no siblings – particularly brothers – pulled a stunt like he did with his surprise. Lesser when it comes to talking openly about their sexual lives with each other.
After taking several deep breaths, Yuri continued a little more calmly. "Please tell me, big brother, why I found some sort of entertainment in my hotel room from you?" Yuri finished with a growl.
Shori simply shrugged casually. Yuri nearly gaped. His brother was being indifferent about it.
"You can be sure, Shori, that I'll be using them with utmost pleasure," Yuri purred at the last word. He grins unrepentantly at the expression that crosses his brother's face. "Those adult toys are too good to pass up," His brother looked horrified by now, Yuri preened in his success. Being serious again, he continued sternly. "What I want to know is why, Shori. Why are you doing this for me?"
"I don't need any more images, Yu-chan!" Shori chastised. He looked green on the face. "Look to your friend, Murata. It was he that told me to put it in your room. Take it up with him."
Shori hoped that answer would be enough. It's true that it was his brother's wise-man that prepared the 'gift package' he called it. Until just now, he didn't even know the full content of what's in the bag. He had his suspicion, of course. But he feigns ignorant. It was better for him as his mental wellbeing.
He knew he shouldn't have peeked. He only saw the innocent stuff. Honest!
That aside, Yuri doesn't need to know that he and the friend-of-his-brother had been scheming behind his back to help him with his relationship with Lord Weller. With the male Lord Weller, that is. Yuri seemed to have no problem showing his interest in Caelyn – Lord Weller's female persona. All that was left was to ensure that Yuri's feelings for all of Lord Weller were still the same, if not amplified for his original and true self.
Murata didn't mention it, and his house guests certainly were tight lip about it… But he was not blind to see the unease that has been going on under his very nose.
"Oh, I will, Sho-chan," said Yuri, staring at him stoically. "Make no mistake, I can sense Murata's involvement from miles away. But I. Know. You." He stared at Shori meaningfully. "While I knew of your little side-project at our expense, you're not the type to help me at such length with my love life. So out with it. Why are you involve in my personal affairs?"
Apparently not. Shori blinked at his brother's upfront and he sighed. He knew being a king had its perks and will mature him. But damn it! He does miss his cute and adorable baby brother.
"Murata told me that you have some issues you need to solve with Lord Weller," said Shori at last. "I don't know the full story, but your chief advisor assured me that you need them and he stressed it was imperative. Since I'm not exactly interested in whatever is going on with your court, I just went along with it."
"What about Conrad?" Yuri asked, frowning.
"Surely you've noticed," Shori said a little too carefully, "That your Lord Weller has been… rather despondent lately," Yuri stared uncomprehendingly. Shori continued. "He is hardworking as always, still has that ever present smile of his. However, that mask of his is cracking. I don't know about you, but to me, his smile is slowly losing its sincerity," Shori pause short before he barraged on, "I've noticed he gave lingering gaze at couples, especially to the same sex kind. It was during those times he stop trying to be cheerful altogether."
Yuri's eyes narrowed as contemplated what he'd been told, feeling alarmed. "Are you sure it's not his mood swing talking? Mom said women are prone to them during their period."
"I've considered that," Shori said. "But that doesn't excuse the fact that he's feeling melancholy."
Yuri turned away from his brother and paced away, agitated. His back was still turned when he asked softly, "Shori, what are you saying?"
Shori could feel his eyes widened incredulously. From what little he could discern from Murata, he thought only Lord Weller was having a crisis. He didn't think Yuri was stuck in the same boat as well. No wonder they had to intervene. "I think you know what I'm hinting at Yu-chan," Shori told him plainly.
"Is it?" Yuri replied just as softly.
Shori groaned. Oh, this is worse than he thought. If this is how bad things can be with Yuri and his, next time something come up with his brother's court, he is so staying out of it. They can handle their own problem how and when they want.
"Oh, for God's sake! Don't be like that, Yu-chan. Are you really that dense?" Shori snapped at him, hissing his ire so not to attract the whole event attendee to them. "Your precious lover is having some major insecurity issues. From what I can see, this gender-switch are not helping. You most certainly add fuel to the fire. You made no secret that you find Miss Caelyn, pleasing. He is bound to question your preference. And then, there is the society we've been brought up in."
Yuri's back had frozen stiff. His fist kept clenching on his side and his knuckles turned white as sheets. Shori speared on. "You seem to have forgotten that your Conrad is a man underneath it all. Think about his feelings here. What he's going through and all this crap though no choice of his own. Lavishing your attention to his alternate persona is not reassuring. If I didn't know any better, I say you've been ignoring it on purpose!"
Yuri rounded on him, his eyes alight in fury. "And you think the sex toys is going to help? If anything it'll make him more insecure."
"The package is for your personal entertainment. How you handle him is up to you. He just needs some assurance of your love. Even the blind can see that."
Yuri snapped his eyes shut and turn away from his brother, again, running his hand at the back of his neck in his distress. He mentally berates himself. Wolfram had said some shocking things in his rant. He didn't think Conrad was feeling the same way. So occupied with his own problems, he completely pushed the other issues to the sideline.
And now without him noticing it, without him completely prepared for it, it creeps up to him.
But Conrad is wrong. So very wrong. It wasn't him being a woman Yuri preferred. It was because it is Conrad. They are one of the same. Man or woman. Conrad is Conrad. And that is the reason why is not that bothered by this whole funny situation. Yes, he is still suspicious and trying to figure out why the Great one change Conrad the way he did, all that matters to him is that he has his eyes only for Conrad.
It was the person inside he was in love with, not the body that houses the soul, or the gender of the flesh. He was attracted to the mind and heart behind that smile, the spirit behind that physical form, his tenacity in life and in battle.
Yuri's jaw clenched thinking that Conrad believed all those things. Believing that he was attracted to him base on his flesh. After all they had been through, hadn't Conrad learn anything? He most of all should know better.
Shori was right. Some assurance was long overdue.
And this is why I wanted to spend the night here! Yuri exclaimed his frustration inwardly.
The question now is – how is he going to convince his most beautiful lover that he loved him? Love him and desire him no matter what form he took? After what his big brother just told him, he need to handle this carefully.
Well, Yuri thought determinately. I'll just handle it just like I always did. Straight on!
Yuri faced his brother seriously. "It is true that Conrad has some issues pertaining to our love and I will address them in due time," His eyes darkened warningly. "However, let me make one thing very clear, Shori," Yuri's eyes bore into his brother. "Despite your good intentions, despite everyone's meddling, and despite what he thought I prefer; I'm going to take my own sweet time and make love to my stubborn – and right now, really oblivious – lover. I'm not going to fuck him like some cheap porn on a red-light district. I'm going to do this my way and I'm going to do it correctly," said Yuri steadfastly.
Shori met Yuri's unyielding gaze head on. He smirked slightly in satisfaction. He was proud of his baby brother, despite his clumsy attempt when it comes to his lover, but he was proud of him nonetheless.
Shori let his smirk widened as he said arrogantly. "Then you better get started."
Yuri snorted. "It's already starting." Then he sighed and was looking at the event going on, looking lost. "Though I have to admit. I have no clue how to bring it up."
Shori accidentally snickered. He turned away to hide his laughter, even though the damage was already done. Yuri was glaring darkly at him. "Might I suggest taking a dip in the Jacuzzi together and bring it up then?"
Yuri stared at him, his eyes wide with the sudden realization. "Is that why you booked a suite instead of a normal room?"
"No. That was just luck. They've run out of rooms."
Yuri was now eyeing him blasély. "Shori, it's a suite. Not even an executive room. A suite!" he said dryly.
"Take advantage of it," was all Shori said. Then he walked off, leaving Yuri alone at the corner.
Yuri watched his brother's back as he walked away. Then he turned his gaze to the masses. His eyes zeroing on Conrad without difficulty. He simply stared at his lover tenderly from afar, before he too walked out of there.
Time to start putting the plan into action.
. . . . . . . .
Yuri and Conrad stumbled into their room hours later, after the party had finally ended. Of course, being in love as they were, they couldn't get their hands – and mouths – off each other whenever they could stole a moment and were alone. Once the evening wore on and more drinks were consumed, they were more relax than when the event first started. They tried to restrain themselves as much as they can until they reach the hotel room, but Yuri makes no secret of his desire every time their eyes met and ghostly touches wherever he can. They can't get back to their suite fast enough.
By the time they reach the corridor leading on toward their suite, Yuri's patience practically deserted him and he starts showering Conrad with little kisses. When they both had entered their room that Yuri turned, grabbed Conrad, pinned him to the door, and proceeded to kiss him like he was going to die at any moment.
"Yuri…" Conrad moaned between kisses. "Yuri, how," He moaned again, "How many wines you had tonight?" He asked Yuri breathlessly. Then, when his mind was a little less dazed, he berated himself in the privacy of his mind for asking such a stupid question.
Yuri stopped kissing him long enough to look at him with an eyebrow raised. "You think I need to be inebriated to kiss you silly?" Yuri nuzzled Conrad's neck. He chuckled. "Is that a challenge?"
"Well… no…" Conrad managed to get out, gasping. How was he to concentrate on speech when Yuri's hands were roaming everywhere over his once more male body and his mouth was busy trailing kisses down his neck, and his chest. He didn't realize Yuri had succeeded in getting him unbuttoned. "Maybe I did. I seem to can't get enough of the taste of your lips, though. Did you slip me a nectar or ambrosia or something?" said Conrad, blushing slightly. Really, an ambrosia? Maybe there was something in the wine or he'd drank too much because that was just so tacky.
Yuri grinned roguishly. He pressed his mouth over Conrad's throat, tasting the skin he couldn't get enough of, feeling the pulse beat quickly against his tongue. He gathered Conrad into his arms and held him tightly, whispering in Conrad's ear. "If you keep that up, it will be me who can't get enough of you. And you know what happens when I can't," Yuri then bit gently down on Conrad's earlobe. Conrad nearly jumped when a sneaky hand ghosted over his budding flesh. Yuri smirked, unrepentant. "Not that I mind…"
Conrad sucked in a sharp breath. He couldn't really think at all. His mind just won't cooperate. Every time Yuri held him like this; how he teased him and lavished him, he wished the world would stop spinning so that he could stay like this forever. Typically, he was not one for showing affection, especially cuddling. Yuri likes to cuddle, however, and when Yuri cuddled him every night before bed, it made him feel more content than he had ever felt in his one hundred and thirty years of life.
Yuri suddenly released him and Conrad blinked, suddenly feeling cold at the loss of warmth that was Yuri's embrace. Yuri took a step back and was smiling at him. "Dearest, why don't you go and fill up the tub? I'll join you in a minute."
Conrad raised an eyebrow. "If you want to rinse off before bed, you could simply use the shower. It's considerably faster that way."
"I could. But I'm in the mood for some good soaking. My body has been very stiff lately," Yuri told him while rubbing the junction of his neck, expressing just how stiff he was.
Conrad grinned. "I'll set up the bath for you. You can have the first go. I'll just take a shower later."
"Who says anything about soaking alone, darling," Yuri intoned playfully, as he began to unbutton his shirt. "Join me."
Conrad stared at him and his lips quirked coyly. It wasn't odd that Yuri and he would share a bath together. They'd been doing it all the time. However, now that they are together, they had discovered that if they were alone together in a bath – naked - it tend to other things besides bathing. It was temptation and seduction when Yuri was involved.
"Are you sure, Your Majesty?" Conrad inquired, a playful teasing note was evident in his tone.
Yuri's eyes darkened. "Very sure. Join me, please. The tub is big enough for the both of us. And it's Yuri!" Yuri huffed, while giving Conrad his famous 'Why-bother-naming-me-if-you're-not-going-to-use-it' look which he perfected thanks to his stubborn subordinate repeated disregard to this issue.
Conrad chuckled. But he did as he bade to do. After Conrad disappeared into the bathroom, Yuri's eyes wondered to the compartment where he stashed the so-called 'gift'. Despite what he had told Shori, he had some reservation when it comes to the thoughtful gift. As interesting as he finds to some of the stuff, such gift is not for everyone. He can understand some couples use it to spice up their intimacy, but he wasn't sure Conrad was open to the idea. He might scare him off.
Still, to throw it away would be such a waste. His brother did acquire them for him. As grateful as he is to his big brother for providing him the means to deeper his relationship, he is technically still under age by their society standard. No matter how he'll go about it, if he were to purchase those toys, it will raise unwanted questions. So the gifts would stay where they are, tucked away until he decided he'd make use of them. If he decided to, that is.
Yuri turned away and head for the ensuite bathroom. He had every intention of make use of the facility and get some pampering done with his beloved. He suspected that the Jacuzzi is the very reason why his brother deliberately booked a presidential suite, anyway. Like his brother said, he should take advantage of it.
. . . . . . . .
Wolfram stared at the mess in front of him in bewilderment. "Mother, what is all this?" asked Wolfram.
Both Gwendal and Wolfram were standing at the doorway, stunned by the mess that was strewn about in the Shibuya's household living room. Jennifer and their mother were busy burying themselves in what appeared to be books on extravagant gowns with incredible embellishments and accessories; which left them both at a loss.
"Wolfie! You're back!" said Lady Celi as she quickly got up and immediately gave Wolfram her customary hugs, which was burying his head in her bosom. Gwendal was lucky. He was older and can get away from their mother's tender affection. Still, that doesn't stop the man from watching their mother warily.
After the usual flailing that was Wolfram's poor attempt at escaping his mother, Gwendal sighed a long-suffering sigh. "What's going on here?" Gwendal said straight to the point, indicating the mess in the living room.
"Oh, nothing much," Jennifer answered absentmindedly from the sofa. Her brows were fused together in concentration as she scrutinised a certain gown from one of the many magazines. After finding the gown acceptable, she proceeds with cutting out that particular section of the book. "We're just planning a surprise wedding for Yu-chan and Conrad…" Jennifer told them flippantly.
Gwendal's eyes grew wide.
"What?" Wolfram blurted out incredulously beside him. Lady Celi had finally deemed her affection was satisfied and had released him, to which said blond quickly make his way back to his elder brother. Jennifer only shrugged and continue with her task while Lady Celi took back her seat and pick up the book she had abandoned, and immerse herself into browsing the perfect selection of gowns as well, along with any accessories she finds acceptable.
Gwendal and Wolfram exchanged a glance of disbelief. "A wedding?!" Wolfram voiced brusquely. "To the wimpy-Yuri? Mother, he's not a suitable match for Lord Weller!" he told her frankly.
Lady Celi raised an eyebrow at him. "Is that a note of affection I detect in your voice for Conrart, Wolfie? Feeling protective of your little big brother? How sweet," Lady Celi gushed.
Wolfram's cheeks tinted pink. His eyes were shut, obviously avoiding everyone's gazed. "I never said such things. All I'm saying is…" Wolfram faltered. "What I'm saying is…" His face went redder. Wolfram mumbled something too low to be coherent. But Gwendal, beside him, heard words such as 'wimp' and 'don't deserve'. He has pretty good idea what Wolfram's grumble was.
Lady Celi studied Wolfram for a minute. Her dearest Wolfram was embarrassed all the way to the of his ears. Oh, he tried to retain his superior expression and posture but was failing spectacularly by the fact that he was fidgeting in his nerves. Her youngest son has always been too cute like that. Especially when he cared deeply for his brothers. Even for Conrart, though he will never acknowledge it. Lady Celi smiled softly. She was truly blessed with three wonderful sons.
Lady Celi smiled and clapped her hands joyously. "Now, Wolfie, since you are here, perhaps you would like to help me decide which wedding gown is best suited for your brother. Then maybe we can find one for yourself too," Lady Celi hummed merrily, her eyes twinkling in mischief. "They have such beautiful designs. Oh! I can't wait to dress you up…"
Wolfram did not hide what he thought of that ridiculous idea. He was clearly floored as his mouth had dropped wide open. "Wedding gown? Me?" He echoed in shock before backing up fearfully. "I am not a girl… Lord Weller is not a girl… neither of us is a girl – why are you choosing a wedding gown?"
While Lady Celi and Wolfram were busy with their own antics and Jennifer looked on laughing delightedly, none of them saw how Gwendal was trembling in his repressed anger; how he kept clenching and unclenching his fist as his eyes darkened coldly.
. . . . . . . .
Conrad sighed in bliss and contentment. The hot water was really quite soothing and helped to calm his aching muscles. All the stress was washed away and left him listlessly. With all the things that have been going on, he didn't realize he needed the small reprieved.
He found various fragments of soap and some scented shampoo, which Conrad was positive that these weren't included in the hotel's bathroom accessories. The soap looked expensive! But then again, maybe Yuri had brought them over from his home. People were known to bring their own toiletries when on vacation. He had filled the tub with hot water and mixed it with the fragrant soap. Now, the tub smelled of musk and sandalwood.
He won't mind falling asleep to this.
Conrad leaned back against the warm chest behind him. His head rested on Yuri's shoulder as he closed his eyes. He felt Yuri's arms encircling him.
"You know, we should do this more often," said Yuri casually from behind. He was smiling slightly as he gently caressed Conrad's wet skin.
"What is?" asked Conrad sleepily.
"Indulging. Pampering. Soaking up in a hot tub just the two of us," whispered Yuri into Conrad's ear.
Conrad shivered slightly. "Now, that wouldn't be wise," he said, grinning mischievously. "Great one knows what Gunter would do if His Majesty was late for his daily duties."
Yuri's grin matched Conrad's and since he was seated behind him, Yuri had the advantage of tickling Conrad mercilessly without fear of retaliation since he would be too busy trying to prevent Yuri from reaching his most sensitive spots – spots Yuri had discovered with devious delight shortly after the nature of their relationship had changed. Who would have thought, his most excellent swordsman was more than a mite ticklish?
The water splashes everywhere as Conrad jerked wildly at Yuri's administration. Then, it continued to dribble as the soldier tried in vain to avoid those naughty fingers. They laughed exuberantly as they play around, causing the floor to be extremely wet thanks to all the splashes. But neither of them cared.
Yuri grinned again as he brought his hands up in mock surrender, finally gave his lover mercy. Conrad huffed playfully, eyeing Yuri's hands suspiciously before he went back to leaning against Yuri's chest. Yuri ran his hand lightly up and down Conrad's arm absentmindedly. His kissed the side of Conrad's head before settle down more comfortably.
While Conrad was enjoying the good old soak and pampering, Yuri was thinking of ways to bring up the topic of Conrad's insecurities. The more he delayed their conversation, the restless he became inside. His thoughts were in a mess. Various openings were thought up and discarded. As easy as Shori made it sound, it was actually harder to get into it. If he were not careful, things could go wrong. And in an important discussion such as this, there is absolutely no room for error.
Well… he did say take advantage of his generosity, Yuri mused.
After debating internally for quite some time, Yuri decided to hell with it and shoot straight at the heart of the problem. "You know, I miss this…" Yuri whispered audibly. He sounds almost sad.
Conrad looked over his shoulder at him. His eyebrows drew together in confusion. Yuri was leaning against the tub's edge with his eyes closed. His expression was passive but determined. His hands were holding Conrad possessively and protectively. "Miss what, Yuri?"
"You," Yuri tightened his hold on Conrad's person as if to emphasize his point. "This. You. The original you. The male you."
Conrad frowned and tilted his head slightly aside. "What brought this on, Yuri?"
Yuri didn't response immediately. He was still content with lying as he is in the tub, enjoying the warm water. After a beat, he slowly opened his eyes and his dark gaze bore into his lover, wordlessly.
Conrad had turned his body around and met his gaze head on, even though he stiffened. There was something in those dark black eyes, and it was making him feeling naked and vulnerable. Those eyes were telling him something. At the same time, it commanded him for his obedience and unquestioned loyalty.
Yuri shifted and pushed his body higher while tightening his hold on his beloved to make sure that Conrad can't get away, while using the other hand to cup Conrad's chin and turn his head to face him, looking him directly in the eyes as he said, "You're a fool, Conrad, to think that I would prefer Caelyn over you as you truly are. What makes you think I would prefer to spend my life with a woman after all these years? You of all people should know me better than that. Why do you question my devotion to you?" Yuri said firmly.
Conrad looked at Yuri in bewilderment; as if he had finally lost his mind. Then what Yuri had said to him registered, he gaped. He might have an inkling what Yuri was hinting at, but he couldn't believe that they were discussing this right now! "What?" Conrad croaked.
Yuri's eyes narrowed. "You heard me."
He had no idea where this came from, but Conrad suddenly felt wounded. "I do not know what brought this on, but I have no desire to continue this nature of discussion," Conrad's voice was cool with hint of hard edge to it. He made to rise out of the tub.
Only for Yuri to yank him back down, slipping towards him with a loud splash. "Yes, we are, whether you like it or not. Right here, right now." Yuri practically locked Conrad in his embrace, preventing him from any attempt of escaping. "Answer me. Why do you question my devotion?"
Now, Conrad felt angry. "Well, excuse me, Your Majesty, for having doubts. You yourself certainly contributed to that factor. I didn't hear you complaining about this whole affair. You went along for the ride even!" Conrad accused him, coldly.
"True, I don't have any complaints. Yes, I like it," Yuri wasn't about to back down now, now that the floodgate is open, nor was he going to sugar coat it. Why deny something he found pleasing?
Conrad felt like his heart was ripped out and dropped all the way to the floor at hearing those words. He glared furiously at insensitive jerk as he gathered his muscles to forcefully heave himself up out of the water. But Yuri used his greater position of leverage to hold him firmly in place, ignoring Conrad's hiss of anger. Conrad, being the trained soldier he was, could have escaped the hold, but not without seriously hurting Yuri. And Yuri knew that no matter how angry he is, Conrad would never hurt him.
However, Yuri was not done. "Wanna know why I don't mind much of you being a woman?" Yuri continued relentlessly. "Because it's still you." Then, softly, he said, "Conrad, you know I'll never love anyone the way I love you. You're the only one I want. The only one I need. It doesn't matter to me if you're a man or if you're stuck as a woman forever! Nothing's changed. I would still love you." Yuri paused momentarily before he continued with the next part, looking a bit sulky. "As for went along for the ride – Are you seriously asking me that? This is Shin'ou we are dealing with. We still haven't figure out what his ultimate motives are. Yeah, I used your transformation to my advantage with the team. But a reminder, darling," Yuri playfully tapped Conrad's nose like he was chiding some naughty puppy causing Conrad to scowl at him. "He passed off my dilemma as trivial. And you, dearest, are still transforming." Yuri's eyes hardened and he frowned. "Which means, the Great One has another purpose for doing this and he is keeping his cards close." Yuri sighed a long-suffering sigh, mentally shaking his head at Shinou's antics. Then, his eyes softened and he looked very sad and sorrowful as he tenderly connects Conrad's forehead with his. "This whole spectacle was my fault to begin with; but Conrad, it has never been my intention to see you in anything but your true self, nor was it my intention to make you question your self-worth."
Conrad listened to him quietly. And when Yuri's done with his heart-to-heart, Conrad turn his gaze away and took several deep breaths.
Yuri sighed and he ran his hand through his wet hair. Nobody said the talk is going to be easy, but damn! "Conrad, we've known each other for a long time. You are the man who named me, for goodness sake! We've trusted each other with our very lives. Why do you doubt me so much now?"
Conrad faced Yuri again. His face was expressionless but his eyes told a different story. They were despondent and hopeless. Yuri was spellbound. He wanted to kiss the wretched despair away but had to refrain himself. At the same time, he also felt possessive; like he needed to protect Conrad. Instead, he gently palmed his lover's cheek comfortingly. Conrad leaned towards it before he continues softly. "Yuri, you haven't had much experience with different relationships yet. When you were only fifteen, you accidentally got engaged to my brother. You hardly had the chance to experiment and discover just where your true preference lay. Then, after you two broke up, you got together with me. You were so persistent in pursuing me, even overcoming my own fear and sense of propriety. Nothing filled me with greater joy to be with you. But now…" Conrad paused as he gathers his courage. "With everything that's been going on and you finally were given the chance to have a go at dating a woman, it seems logical that you might find that perhaps you prefer one over the other. How could you be certain that a man is your preference when you've never had a chance with a woman?"
Yuri didn't answer him for a moment. It left the air between them heavy with pressure. Finally, he drew a deep breath and asked, "Conrad, do you regret being with me?" the words came out was barely a whisper.
Conrad looks at him in shock. "What?"
"Do you regret being with me?" Yuri asked louder.
"No," Conrad stuttered. "Never. It's not…"
Yuri put a finger to Conrad's lips to silence him. "Murata told me something. I find myself agreeing to his perception of my sexuality," So Yuri told Conrad what he and Murata had discussed, how him being bisexual and yes, have attraction towards both genders. "Or so Murata said," Yuri chuckled. "The thing is, Conrad, even though I'm greedy wanting both genders, none of that matters or can compare with what I have with you." Yuri's eyes bore into Conrad again. "All this stuff doesn't matter to me because guy or girl, it is you I'm head over heels for. You, Conrad Weller, my captain of the guards."
"So you see," said Yuri after he had finished explaining, feeling Conrad's heart hammering against his hand. "There is absolutely nothing for you to worry about. I love you, Conrad Weller. No one else but you. Shinou can permanently change you for all I care… As long as it is still you underneath, then I'm content."
"Are you sure?" Conrad asked, despite what Yuri had said, he didn't dare to hope. "Yuri, are you sure?"
"I've never been so sure in my life," Yuri replied firmly, grasping his hand tightly.
Conrad gazed wordlessly into Yuri's steady eyes for several moments, then sighed deeply, feeling like a heavy weight had lifted from his shoulders – and his heart. He felt such relief that his fears were unfounded and ashamed for having such foolish doubts in the first place. His face heated up. This talk is getting to him.
"What's this?" Yuri said teasingly. His eyes twinkled mischievously. "I see your Caelyn persona is still present. Is there a reason for this cute little blush of yours?" He laughed in delight and brushed Conrad's cheek with the back of his hand.
Conrad briefly gawked at him. Cute little blush? His mind wondered.
Conrad sends a splash of water wave at Yuri and Yuri had to cough out the excess water that he accidentally swallowed. "Such nonsense, Your Majesty," said Conrad indignantly. "You jest. I'm an average looking person even by our people's standard nor am I popular, in great part due to my half-breed status," he huffed. "And I don't do cute!"
Yuri was blinking incredulously, jaw dropping and gaping like a goldfish. He knew Conrad was famous for his peculiar sense of humour but this was utterly ridiculous. He hadn't thought Conrad fell into the group of people who were unaware of their own beauty or how much attention other people kept giving them. Yuri accidentally snickered at Conrad's last reaction. "Geez, Conrad. I know you have flaws, but even you can't be utterly blind to your own good looks."
But Conrad merely smiled. "You flatter me, Your Majesty." He gave a courtly little bow that should have looked ridiculous while naked in a bath, but somehow didn't. "Compare to Wolfram, I think I know full well where my looks stand."
Yuri tsk'ed. "Please – I like you as you are just fine. You're better than Wolfram any day!" Conrad laughed.
They both finished up their good bath, Conrad glance over his shoulder to look at Yuri and blinked. Yuri got this expression on his face. Conrad knew that look. It was full of hunger and his eyes glinting lasciviously. Now that his attention was to His Majesty, he easily noticed how the King gave particular attention to his lips. Conrad's lips felt dry and he unconsciously licks his lips for moisture. Yuri's eyes darkened further as a result. He was also just noticing, how Yuri's fingers weren't idle and were rubbing lightly on his skin. Conrad shivered. Yuri slowly leaned forward.
Yuri smirked when he saw how skittish Conrad had become. He placed light kisses along his neck, finding satisfaction when he heard Conrad's breath hitched. "Conrad. My Conrad," said Yuri huskily and possessively. Conrad had to bite back a moan. Yuri kissed the junction of Conrad's neck and shoulder before he claimed his mouth, thoroughly. Conrad returned the kiss in earnest. One of his hands sneaked behind Yuri's head to deepen the kiss while the other intertwined with Yuri's. Then, Conrad suddenly gasped between the kisses. One of Yuri's hands may have been intertwined with his, but his other hand has been wandering around his body and touching places that he wasn't supposed to touch! He panted. He knew he should stop Yuri, but since Yuri was behind him, that was near impossible to do. And it was hard to stop the wandering hand too. A traitorous part of him wished it wouldn't stop.
"Yuri!" Conrad gasped. His body jerked upwards when Yuri's hands went lower between his legs. He panted harshly at Yuri's skilled administrations.
Yuri had to will himself to focus on what he is doing and hold back a groan. Conrad was gorgeous. He really liked seeing Conrad lose all his inhibitions like this. There was just something about looking at your lover, dazed and flushed, with that rarely seen desire written on his face that was incredibly erotic in its own way and downright sexy at the same time. It really turned him on!
Now that phase one is over and done with, time to start phase two – namely proving to Conrad just how much he desire him in his original body. This part is crucial and he intends to do this right.
Yuri slid his arms around Conrad's lean waist and rose from the tub with him, water cascading down into the tub. He dragged a towel over and dried both of them quickly, all the while attacking Conrad's mouth. Once they were sufficiently dry, he took Conrad's hand and all but led him to the bedroom.
He pushed Conrad gently down on the bed. Yuri watched with appreciation at Conrad lying there looking back up at him through those dazed, beautiful eyes of his. His face was flushed and that finely muscled, taut body looks very, very, very inviting as he spread on the bed.
Yuri smiled, amazed all over again that Conrad was his. He saw Conrad return that smile, and could see that same awe echoed in the cinnamon brown depths of his eyes.
"Stay with me," he murmured, lacing their hands together. "Stay by my side. You and me, we belong to one another."
"Always," Conrad whispered back, tightening his fingers.
Yuri leaned down gave Conrad a chaste kiss on the lips before he trailed kisses all over his lover. Each kiss was followed by a fingertip's touch. He ran his tongue along the longest and deepest of Conrad's scars, immerse himself in Conrad's whimpers. Yuri nuzzled his neck and bit a little here and there along the way and sucked hard, leaving a number of hickeys in his wake, marking him. Mine! Yuri thought in fierce possessiveness. Yuri drew back, drinking in the sight of debauched Conrad beneath him.
"You know, we have this room for the next couple of days," he drawled huskily. "Brace yourself. I'm not letting you out of this bed. I fully intent to make you forget all your silly little doubts," Yuri leaned in, his mouth inches away from Conrad's. "I'll even have to punish you for thinking about it in the first place," Yuri slowly lowered his body, pining Conrad flushed against him. Conrad's eyes shut in pleasure. Yuri's eyes gleam wickedly. "When I'm thorough, you'll never question my devotion again."
With that said, Yuri's lips claimed him, kissing him roughly, giving Conrad no room to think. Yuri put his everything into the kiss with enough bruising force that leaves little doubt. Conrad breathless moans was music to his ears. Yuri grip Conrad possessively as he rolled them over while maintaining his delightful assault.
. . . . . . . .
Conrad woke up and groaned. His was so tender. His body was seriously aching and protesting, his consciousness demanded that he go straight back to sleep. He was quite sure he had never been as sore as he felt right now, barring battle survival.
He really should get up. It was – Conrad check the time – already noon! But he was too comfortable. Conrad lay back down with a sigh.
Yuri lived up to his promise, Conrad mused. Yuri had him repeatedly all throughout the first, never once let him off the bed like he said. He was quite determined.
Yes, the first night. Which was Saturday night… Yuri had him repeatedly the whole night!
Conrad blushed just thinking about it. He remembers Yuri… liked to tease him. In fact, come to think of it, it might be his goal to drive him mad with desire. Yuri was gentle in their first round. They hadn't coupled in a while, so Yuri was extra careful. It was all a sweet torture, a delicious torment as Yuri slowly, ever slowly, break him apart.
And then, Yuri picked up the paces. In every coupling, he becomes bolder, more confident, more ravenous. Yuri had him hard and fast. He drove into him full and deep, as he pounded into him with great speed and strength. Afterward, he would slow again, going for languid touches, before building up to a rough, brutal force.
They alternate continuously. Yuri had him in various position. On his back, on his stomach, on his knee… Yuri likes it when he had Conrad's legs over his shoulder, or one of it, as he slammed deep in quick pace. And it left him holding on helplessly as he became undone.
Yuri, particularly, loves it when he rides him or when he turn them around, and he was saddling His Majesty. Yuri would rock them, fast and slow, making him tremble and writhed. It was intense. Too intense. Especially when Yuri held him tight and possessively.
Conrad grabs a pillow and buried his hot face on it, legs swinging as he reminisced the first night. Yuri had left many hickeys and hand print that was blatantly obvious!
It didn't stop there. Once the sun was high. Yuri had him again. With the same determination and intensity as the night before. They went a couple of rounds before they decided to head for late lunch. They had spent the afternoon relaxing and in leisure.
Conrad blinked his sleepy eyes a few times and his gaze landed upon the handcuffs lying on the bedside table. His cheeks tinted with pink and he felt like taking the comforter and covering himself from embarrassment. It was by pure chance that he had discovered what Yuri had called sex toys, while they were launching watching television. While Yuri was busy in the kitchen, he had decided to check the compartments, looking for the TV's schedule. When he found the… sexual novelties, he'd nearly flipped! It was a shock!
Yuri had had to assure him numerous times that they had not been his idea nor was he responsible. After another round of lovemaking – for assurance sake, Conrad, of course, had let the matter dropped. But he couldn't help eyeing the trinkets every now and then. And Yuri had noticed.
After he had transformed again back into his male gender, they had enjoyed a good dinner, and Yuri had suggested they go swimming again. He should have known better… Yuri had had other things in mind when he'd proposed that. Conrad had been a fool to think that the swim would be entirely innocent. They'd had fun alright; with Yuri busy seducing him and trying to have intimate moments by the pool! Thank the Great one that by the time they had swam the pool area was already empty of other guests!
That night, Conrad's face blushed crimson remembering it. That night, Yuri had suggested they try out some of the toys. Conrad had been very sceptical at first. But Yuri said they wouldn't do anything if he didn't want to or that they'd do anything dangerous. After being teased by Yuri and Yuri pointing out that he, Conrad, was eyeing the thing, he had finally agreed.
He should have known. Yuri said he'll punish him for doubting in the first place. He didn't think it'll involve the… 'gifts'.
And punish, Yuri did. He took great pleasure dominating him. Yuri had grin at him, roguishly and his eyes were dark with all the sinful things to come.
Yuri had him tortured. Since it was a punishment, Yuri had played with him, slowly.
The passion was extreme. It was too much. His senses were all overloaded and it was overpowering!
It started with the dice. Yuri had him cuffed most of the night. With the dice, Yuri had the power to tease him, and being bound, he was powerless to stop him. Then, Yuri had him on the plug. It was uncomfortable at first – because it was cold – but soon he forgot all about it. Yuri was being attentive.
Yuri would lightly touch him, hands sensually running all over him. His lips will follow, ghostly nipping here and there. Then, he would pinch in intervals, causing him to yelp. Yuri would soothe the hurt with his tongue. All the while, Yuri would rock the plug in him. He would pull it out slightly before pushing it in hard and deep. He would rounded that thing, rubbing all his insides to a degree!
After he… ah… ejaculate a few times – then, the true punishment starts.
He remembers Yuri put on the ring and removed the plug and inserted the vibrator. Yuri turned it on and he screamed. The thing was trembling inside him!
And Yuri? Yuri sat aside, watching. His gaze was penetrative as he observed him. Yuri was calm and collected as he sat quietly. He would hum appreciatively as his eyes raked all over him. Never once his eyes averted from him, they bore into him, leaving him more than bare and vulnerable.
Yuri had tormented him by alternating the volume. He would upped the volume little by little, before he turned it down low or momentarily paused, allowing him a brief respite to catch his breath. Then it would start over again.
It was maddening. Yuri had this done a few times. He would quiver from head to toe, fighting his binding, wanting to get away from the mind-numbing pleasure, but was trapped and defenceless. He would spam, yearning for release, but Yuri denied him.
After a while, Yuri left his lounge and went over the bed. He had stood at the end, looking down at him. His expression was all dark and positively lascivious. His interest was standing proudly.
Next, Yuri talks. It wasn't the sweet nothings that they used to exchange. It was dirty, obscene and lewd. He would tell him; how wanton he was, lying there, moving erotically against his binds. He told him; how his hole twitched, so sensitive, so enticingly against the vibrator. How Yuri imagined; how tight he was as he shivered. It was very arousing, he said.
Yuri had crawl slowly towards him, whispering all the indecent things he would do to him. His voice was coarse, as he greatly held himself back. But he talked. Vulgar, crude and salacious… He explained, in great detail, what awaits him. He would utter darkly his promise, as he dispelled whatever ridiculous doubts that he had.
When Yuri touched him, he arched. He moaned, he whined… and he begged. Begging for Yuri to touch him, begging for Yuri to grant him release, begging for Yuri's apologies.
Yuri had him completely at his mercy, and all he could do was submit.
By then, he was begging and sobbing; like some common courtesan in a whorehouse. He cries and he mewls promiscuously. But everything was a haze and a daze, and all he could remember was chanting Yuri, Yuri, Yuri…
He fell asleep with Yuri buried deep within him.
Conrad groaned long and hard. He was flushing at the coupling transpired last night. And as extreme and intense the sensual pleasure was, he found himself shivering with pleasure again.
He wanted Yuri again.
The door of their hotel suite opened and Yuri entered with a bag of food on his hands. Yuri peeked towards their bedroom as he closed the door and his eyes light up. "Oh, good. You're up. I bought us a large Spaghetti." Yuri said as he put down the food on the table.
That done, Yuri came over and sat beside the bed, his eyes tender as he gently ran his finger along Conrad's cheek. "How are you feeling? Are you in pain? I know after last night you must have been very tender."
Conrad blushed crimson and lowered his gaze. "It was tolerable, Your Majesty."
Yuri frowned. "Then why averted your gaze? Are you sure you're alright? I got to admit, I got carried away… Conrad, are you sure you are well?"
Conrad eyed him from underneath his lashes and he smirked. "Your Majesty was amazing last night. It was delightful. Your prowess is simply incredible," he said teasingly.
Yuri spluttered, cheeks tinted pink. "Flattery will get you nowhere," he croaked. Then he mock-glared at his captain. "And stop teasing me or I'll have you again."
"And if I want you again?" Conrad asked coyly.
Yuri's eyes widened as he groaned. "Conrad," he whined. Conrad chuckled.
Yuri grinned widely at him. "Now," Yuri said cheekily. "As much as I enjoy our banter and loathe to stop, I'm afraid we ought to shower. We need to check out soon. Even though I already inform the counter that we'll be late, still a couple of hours extra isn't much." Yuri kissed Conrad softly before getting up and extending his hand. "Now come on. Join me in the shower? We can save up on hot water if we shower together."
Conrad raised an eyebrow while accepting Yuri's hand. Yuri smiled and raining him with sweet innocent kisses. Conrad could feel his face warm at Yuri's tender gesture. But he also caught a certain glint in Yuri's eye as he was pulled to his feet, sore muscles protesting loudly, Yuri actually had to carry him to the ensuite-bathroom, princess style. He knew by now that when Yuri was involved, nothing in his mind is innocent anymore. They'd probably be having another round in the shower.
He was right.
. . . . . . . .
Yuri and Conrad entered the front door before being accosted by an irate Gwendal von Voltaire.
"Where have you been?" asked Gwendal harshly, dividing his glare between Yuri and Conrad.
Conrad nearly jumped at the sight of his older brother and he had never seen his brother this angry… at least not at him.
Yuri stared wide-eyed at Gwendal. He briefly glanced at Conrad before turning his attention back to Gwendal. "Gwendal, what…"
"Do you know how long you've been gone?" Gwendal asked angrily, cutting Yuri off. His blue eyes were flashing. And he was slightly shaking with repressed anger. His gaze snapped to Conrad, eyeing him from head to foot in quick assessment. "Do you have any idea how worried I was?"
Yuri blinked, dumbfounded. "Gwendal, I told you we were attending an important company function," he replied incredulously. "It was… "
"That was Saturday! It's already Monday!"
"It was only the weekend, Gwendal," said Yuri, trying to placate him. But his attempt wouldn't have any success. Gwendal was very displeased indeed.
Gwendal frowned darker. "You could at least have told me that you'll be out the whole weekend," He turned to glower at his little brother. "I expected more responsibility from you, Conrart!"
"Since when do I need your permission for such a thing?" Conrad speaks up for the first time. His shock was gone only to be replaced by irritation. There was defiance in his eyes. "Gwendal, we are not in Demon Realm, and if it is not a matter of the state, I do not need your permission. Or are you claiming that I answer to you even in matters of a personal nature?"
"You are my younger brother…"
"I've grown…"
"Until you are wed, you are still my responsibility. And speaking of weddings…" Gwendal grasped Conrad by the hand and pulled him to the living room, with Yuri hurriedly following behind. "Take a look at what the mothers have been doing!"
Conrad's eyes widened and Yuri's jaw hit the floor. The both stood at the door, shocked and speechless.
The room was a complete and chaotic mess!
"Yuri! Lord Weller!" Wolfram called out from the various ribbons that surrounded and adorned him. "You bloody wimps! Where the name of Great One, have you both been?!"
Coming out of his shock, Yuri shook his head and asked meekly, "What's this? What's going on?"
"It seems our mothers have decided that a wedding ceremony for the two of you is a necessity," Yuri looked at Gwendal incredulously. "So as you can see, they're busy preparing."
Conrad and Yuri exchange glances. They both were not sure what to make of this new development. Conrad didn't know what to say. This was worse than when his mother dressing up her sons or asking them to choose her next beau…
But this? What they are implying wasn't simple.
Conrad silently headed upstairs. Yuri watched Conrad leave with worry etched on his face.
. . . . . . . .
In a small room, where there was barely any light, a shadowy figure was busy developing pictures that he had recently taken. There were various photographs hanging on a string. And all of them showed the same thing, featured the same subject… or should we say, they had at least one thing in common.
The figure smiled, tracing one of the pictures with his finger, longingly.
"Soon," said the figure. "Soon, my lovely one, you will be mine."
From the hanging string, the image of smiling Caelyn Von Spitzveg staring back at him.
. . . . . . . .
Review on your way out!
-Elvina P.