Izaya grinned up at Shizuo as he stood-stood in front of him. Shizuo stared down at him open-mouthed. Izaya was healing faster then those around him had thought. The informant thought it was rather amusing how much they seem to underestimate him, so it pleased him greatly when he always surprised them- little by little. "What?" Izaya questioned

"N-nothing"

Izaya laughed "It's not like my legs or spine was damaged. Not being able to walk was temporary"

"I know. Just. It feels kind of a long time since I've seen you-like this"

"Well, I'm not completely healed just yet" Izaya walked toward the coat hook on the wall "But, I'm clear to be discharged"

"You are?"

"No he's not" Shinra said, startling the two in the room from the doorway.

Shizuo stared over at his friend, Izaya pouted and turned on his heels "Shinra! You snitch"

Shinra smiled "I knew you would try and leave early. You always do"

"I'm bored!" Izaya huffed and sat back on the bed "He would have fallen for it too" Izaya said as he placed the side of his face against his palm, his elbow leaning on his leg.

"He was just trying to trick you. He's gotta go through some movement tests before they'll allow him to leave"

"I'm not a child" Izaya continued to pout "The bullet hit my chest. Not my spine. Not my legs. I can walk just fine"

"You're telling me you're not a child with that pout on your face?"

"I hate you"

"Izaya. It's not just about walking. There's minimal exercises to make sure your chest muscles are healing properly"

"You mean, like stretching?" Shizuo asked, completely unfazed by the fact that Izaya had tried to trick him.

"Mild-!" Shinra pointed his finger "Stretches"

"That it?"

Izaya sighed "Shinra. I know all this. The doctors have already explained this to me"

"I'm here to make sure you do it. You're not leaving this hospital until you've been fully assessed"

"I admitted that I wasn't fully healed properly"

"That doesn't count"

"Well it should. My word should be enough"

"Not when that person is you" Shinra laughed "I'll be back in a moment" Shinra pushed up his glasses as he left.

Izaya leant back on his palms "I shouldn't be this readable. It's not becoming of me"

Shizuo chuckled. "Relax. You're not always readable. In fact, you're down right cryptic"

Izaya half feigned a flattered expression "Thanks Shizu-chan"

"But. At the moment, you're just not completely yourself"

Izaya rolled his "Tst. Well that was anticlimactic"

"You know what I mean. Don't worry about it"

Izaya grinned "Whoever said I was worried?"

Shizuo raised his eyebrow. Was Izaya seriously trying to hide now? Shizuo then grinned. "You know. I knew you weren't allowed to leave. So your trick wouldn't have worked anyway"

Izaya stood up from the bed, slowly walking up to his partner "Liar"

"Why'd you think I wasn't all that surprised when Shinra told me?"

Izaya searched for any kind of doubt in Shizuo's eyes, when he found none, he grinned "They do say some qualities from your significant other will start to come out in you"

"I told you, I do not want to become you"

Izaya laughed "Too late. But don't worry, there will only ever be one of me. You're just thinking ahead more then usual. That's all"

Shizuo "You implying that I'm slow?"

"You've got a brain. It's just lacking use. You choose not to use it"

"Afraid I could be the brains and the brawns?"

Izaya stepped closer "On the contrary. It's a little-" Izaya placed his right hand on Shizuo's chest as he leaned in "Hot"

Shizuo tensed as Izaya's lips drew near to his own "Izaya-we can't-not here"

Izaya chuckled "Relax..." Izaya pressed his lips lightly against Shizuo's, his other hand coming around to rest on his back. "I missed this. Didn't you?"

"Well. Yes. But-"

Izaya's lips crashed against him, leaving Shizuo no choice but to react with a low growl. His own hands coming around to cling to the back of Izaya's black shirt. Izaya moaned into the kiss, making Shizuo pull him closer. "Take me...Shizu-chan" Izaya whispered

"Izaya..."

"Not that kind of exercises!" Shinra shouted. Shizuo startled so much that he pushed Izaya off and the informant landed non gracefully on the bed.

Izaya hissed and then winced as he sat up a little "Haven't you ever heard of privacy...?" Izaya rubbed his chest.

"Coming from you? Your whole life is revolved around peoples privacy"

Shizuo blushed a little and then turned to Izaya with a frown. "Did you know he was there?"

"As twisted as you think I am. I don't get any kicks out of people seeing me indulge in pleasures"

Shizuo blushed harder "That's not what I meant!"

Izaya sat up fully "Whatever. Besides, even if that were true. I wouldn't if I knew you were going to throw me so callously away"

Shizuo's eyes widen, finally realising what had happened "Shit. Sorry. You ok?"

Izaya waved his hand "Your delayed concern isn't needed. But you better prey that didn't effect my recovery time. Because if I have to stay here any longer, and it turns out that's your fault? You'll regret it" Shizuo narrowed his eyes, but he just caught the slightest hint of playfulness in Izaya's. He gave him a small grin and then turned to Shinra.

"Sorry about that"

Shinra pushed his glasses up "By all means, do whatever you want. I'm happy for you. But please. Don't ever let me see that. I really don't want those images in my head when I make love to Celty"

Both Izaya and Shizuo scrunch their nose up at Shinra's bluntness. "Feelings are mutually shared" Izaya said

"What?" Shinra then realised "Oh. Sorry. Heh"

Shizuo sighed and then turned to Izaya "I gotta go to work anyway"

"I know. An hour ago"

"What?" Shizuo span around to glance at the clock "Shit!" Shizuo growled and turned back to Izaya "Why didn't you say something?"

"Well. I thought that was obvious"

Shizuo growled and Izaya grinned and curled his finger "Don't go to work mad. Come on. Let's kiss and make up" The informant was teasing. Shizuo knew that, even Shinra knew that. But the blonde complied, there was some sense in what the informant was saying. Shizuo kissed him quickly and then ran out of the door.

Shinra stared at Izaya, the informant frowned and then sighed "What is it Shinra?"

"Nothing. I was just-you know-" Shinra coughed awkwardly "Given you two are suppose to be the two strongest in the city, I bet the chemistry is amazing-"

Izaya stared for a moment, did Shinra honestly just say that? "What-the-fuck"

Shinra laughed "Come on. It's a little intriguing"

"Tst. Well next time we go at it. I'll record it for you" Izaya rolled his eyes

Shinra blinked "Really?"

Izaya could see Shinra wasn't kidding, he grabbed a pillow and threw it at him. "No! You creep. Who the hell would do that? And just five minutes ago, you complained about it"

"Well sure. In a hospital, now that's just a little unorthodox"

"And I'm sure Celty's shadows are used for more then shape-shifting for work and general benefits"

Shinra's eyes widen a little and then he turned a shade of red. Izaya grinned. "That's kind of...private"

"Glad we understand each other" Izaya still continued to grin.

…...

Izaya lay across his hospital bed, pleased that it was his last night that he'd be here. He had passed all of the doctors tests and assessments. They were happy enough to discharge him and allow him to spend the rest of his re-cooperation time at home. Home. He wouldn't admit it, but it seemed like-for the first time-the place he lived at most of the time, actually felt like home. It was as if the place was only there for a place to sleep, eat and bathe. He looked over at Shizuo, who was already asleep in the chair. Izaya wasn't sure when it happened-nor did he care how weirdly sentimental it was-but the blonde somehow made everything feel different. Like every place was home, like he belonged somewhere, for the first time, feeling like he was wanted, rather then needed. He was a little creeped out, but he figured it was just something else to get used to.

The room was dark, except for the illuminating light from his phone. He was about to switch it off for the night. As his finger grazed over the button. A series of texts came through. They seemed to be images with little side texts. Izaya scrolled through them, they were a little blurry, but he could make out the people in them. Shiki, Aoki, the guy from the club, and most of those they'd seen working with them. They looked more then roughed up, both Shiki and Aoki had been bound and gagged; who knew what was going to happen to them. There were images to which appeared to be bodies of the rest, including the guy from the club. Izaya merely grinned, though his heart lifted with relief. "Checkmate" he whispered in the darkness.

Two months later

It was the middle of November, winter had swept across the two cities of Ikebukuro and Shinjuku with a vengeance, though still not cold enough to cover the streets with white. Shizuo noticed Izaya's jacket had changed, though still fur trimmed, it now adorned a thicker fabric and one side buttoned over the other, it was longer too, almost coming down to his knees. Shizuo had never really felt the cold, his body was just always naturally warm, something he knew Izaya was jealous over. Secretly though, he didn't mind as much since he had no hesitation in using Shizuo as his personal heater, especially at night.

Izaya was almost healed, the stitches were dissolving at the rate they were suppose to. He'd been for his monthly check up and the doctors were happy that his body hadn't sustained any long lasting damage. He felt a twinge every now and then, but it was to be expected and would eventually stop. The informant couldn't wait to get back to work on a full scale, still forbidden to exert himself at least for another week. To say he'd been bored out of his mind was an understatement. Sure, he could do quite a bit from home, but it just wasn't quite the same. Shizuo had been working rather a lot lately, Izaya couldn't help being a little envious. This time of year, they had a lot of clients to collect from, so near to Christmas. People seemed to automatically go into debt over the holidays. Shizuo said it was his favourite time, because he could earn a lot more, to which he did have a point. It seemed to work the exact opposite for Izaya though, there weren't many after info around the Christmas season. People just became naturally friendly. It was something he loved to explore and try to change that. It was the perfect way to create chaos. But that was now a past time favourite, he almost missed it, sometimes he still did, but he was rather fond of his new life now. Shizuo reminded him that he was still an ass hole, if only to get Izaya to believe that he was still him, that the informant was still the same, just a less meaner version.

Izaya grinned when he heard a key turning sound at the door. This went on for several more seconds before a loud thud was heard-then again-and again. Izaya casually walked over to the door and leaned against it. "Who is it?" of course, he knew who it was-if the loud angry grunts were anything to go by.

"Oi! You know who it is. Open up" Came the familiar voice.

"Don't you have your key, Shizu-chan?" Izaya grinned

"It won't work for some reason. Damn it Izaya, I've had a long ass day"

"Did you try turning it?" Izaya almost laughed when he heard the growl behind the door. I better let him in, don't want him breaking down my door.

Izaya soon opened the door, letting it swing open on it's own while he put on the most innocent expression he could muster. "Hey"

Shizuo stepped into the apartment, frowning suspiciously as he pulled the door closed behind him. "What was that?"

Izaya put his hands in his pants pockets. "What was what?"

"Why was the door bolted?"

Izaya laughed at Shizuo's suspicious expression, he sighed dramatically as he walked over to his desk and leaned against it. "Well, I had to give the two hot guys a chance to escape" Izaya grinned. Well, he had to get his kicks somehow. The expression on the blondes face was worth it.

"Ass hole"

Izaya grabbed a small bag from the desk and handed it to Shizuo "I got this for you today"

Shizuo raised an eyebrow and took the bag hesitantly "Why?"

Izaya rolled his eyes "Just open it"

"What's going to happen?"

Izaya huffed at Shizuo's lack of trust and snatched the bag from him and pulled out a gold key. "There" Izaya held the key in his palm outstretched toward him.

"It's a key"

"Yes it is. I'm glad you could tell"

"What's it for?"

"For the door"

Shizuo blinked. "I already have a key"

"But this one works" Shizuo was so confused now "Just go outside and try it"

"Wait. Did you go outside?"

Was he serious? "Don't get all huffy. I didn't do any work today. Just try the key already" Izaya pushed Shizuo toward the door and shut it, locking it from the inside.

Shizuo blinked and then did as told. He turned the new key in the lock and the door opened. Izaya grinned "It works. Now tell me why this other key didn't"

"I changed the locks"

Shizuo walked back into the apartment and shut the door. "Why?"

"Because what I'm about to say wouldn't seem that big of a deal if I didn't"

"Izaya- what are you-"

"Move in with me" Shizuo fell silent. His mouth opened but nothing came out. "You look like a fish. And I went to such effort" although the blondes expression was rather funny

"You- you want me to...Izaya-that's- I thought-"

"You practically live here anyway. When was the last time you actually went back to yours?"

"But- I thought you wouldn't want- it's just that I was under the impression you didn't care for traditions much"

"Sometimes. I don't think moving in together counts as a tradition"

"Well. The way you asked me certainly wasn't normal"

"It was more fun this way"

"For you"

Izaya shrugged and then placed his hand against Shizuo's chest. "Is that a yes?"

Shizuo grinned "Yes"

Izaya returned the grin and then crushed his lips against Shizuo's. Shizuo's arms came up and around Izaya's back as the informant done the same. Their bodies closed against each other as Shizuo was backed against the wall. "I think, we've waited long enough" Izaya whispered and Shizuo grunted as Izaya practically jumped and hooked his legs around the blondes hips. They kissed fierily and Shizuo stumbled forward as he clumsily made his way to Izaya's-their bedroom. They fell against the bed, Shizuo fell over the informant, his hands coming to stop himself at either side of Izaya's head. Shizuo leaned up and quickly removed his shirt and Izaya's hands attached themselves to his muscled stomach. Shizuo leaned down and his hands slid up Izaya's black shirt and then kissed him before he removed the item. There was a prominent scar that reminded them both of what happened. Shizuo grazed his finger over it. "It's ok. It doesn't hurt"

"Are you sure?"

"I'll be fine. Come on. No more waiting. Ok?" Shizuo leaned down and kissed him again, he then trailed to Izaya's neck and then down his chest. One of his hands came and cupped him through his black trousers as he grazed teeth over a nipple. "Ngh..." Izaya's hands came to grip Shizuo's shoulders as the blonde continued his ministrations to the informant's pleasure. "Yes..." Izaya hissed. Shizuo then leaned off and began to pull at Izaya's belt. He practically tore the fabric as he released Izaya of his constrictions. Shizuo placed kisses downwards and then stopped when a sudden urge to do something came over him. They had never done something like this before and he wasn't sure how Izaya would feel.

"Izaya...I want to-" Shizuo leaned down and gently took the head of Izaya's member in his mouth.

Izaya's eyes grew wide and he pushed against Shizuo's shoulders. Breathing heavily. "What...What are you doing...Shizu-chan"

"I don't know. I just- want to"

"But...it's, a little-"

"New?"

"No. yes. Just- it's kind of unhygienic"

"Shall I stop? I won't do it if it makes you uncomfortable"

Izaya thought for a moment. The minute Shizuo's mouth closed over him, even just for a second, his body seemed to react very strongly. Maybe it was the shock. But his cock certainly didn't mind the attention. "Ok." Izaya breathed out

"To stop?"

"No. don't...stop" Izaya shifted up the bed and grabbed hold of the railings of the headboard behind him. Shizuo smiled a little. As if Izaya was worried about yanking at Shizuo's hair or something.

"It's ok. I've never done this before either"

"Obviously..." Shizuo leaned down and wrapped a hand around Izaya's shaft and then his mouth closed over the head once more. "Ah..." Shizuo's tongue darted out to lick around him and then his mouth moved further down and then back up again. "Shiittt..." Shizuo repeated this action for a couple of minutes before he began to suck. "Ngh! Shizu-chan! Fuck...oooooh" Izaya's knuckles whitened as he gripped the bars before bucking upwards slightly, to which Shizuo moved with him and then grazed his teeth very lightly from the bottom of his shaft all the way up to the head, where he then sucked hard and then dipped his tongue at his pre-cummed hole. "Ahhh! Gooood..." Izaya bucked again and cried out as Shizuo moved faster, his own cock twitching with impatience as he still hadn't removed his pants. "Shizu-chaaaan...I'm...I'm gonna...Fuuuuuck" Izaya came, his hips coming off the bed as his back arched. Shizuo sucked and then came away as the rest spilled over. Izaya was breathing erratically, flushed against the bed, his hands loose against the headboard. One of his hands then came and fell over his eyes. "What...did we just do?"

"Sorry. I don't know what came over me" Shizuo cringed as his choice of words. "Heh."

"Don't be. Shit. That was..."

"Well thanks" Shizuo leaned down to kiss him but Izaya stopped him, placing his hand firmly against his chest.

"Don't even think about it"

Shizuo clocked on to what Izaya meant. "Oh. Right. I'll be back" Shizuo then left for the bathroom.

Izaya breathed out a heavy sigh before he sat up, wiggling his hands to get some feeling back in them. "Shit. Shizu-chan. I didn't expect that from you" he moved over toward his night stand and then grabbed some wipes to clean himself up.

Shizuo came back out after cleaning his teeth and rinsing his mouth thoroughly with mouth wash. Izaya grinned as he looked down at Shizuo's obvious discomfort. He curled his finger, beckoning him back to the bed. He then grabbed a small tube from the draw and chucked it across the bed. Shizuo quickly removed the last of his clothing and grabbed the tube as he made his way back up to the informant. When their lips met again, electric shock waves passed between them, Shizuo's hands slid up against Izaya's sides and Izaya's legs wrapped themselves around his back. Shizuo then popped the cap open and squirted a generous amount in his hand. He coated himself with the lube and then placed two digits against Izaya's entrance. "Shizu-chan..."

"Relax" Shizuo told him, he could feel Izaya's heart racing beneath his fingers as his other hand lay flat against the informant's chest, being careful of his scar.

"I'm fine" Izaya was still a little giddy from the vast pleasure Shizuo had given him a few minutes ago.

"Maybe we should wait a few more minutes"

"No...Please. Just-" Shizuo then thrust his two fingers deep inside him "Aaah..." Izaya threw his head back so fast that the back of his head hit the metal bars. He blinked at the short wave of dizziness that overcame him suddenly. Shizuo stopped when he heard the clonk.

"Are you ok?"

Izaya chuckled a little "I'm ok. Don't stop..." Shizuo moved his fingers in a fast deep motion, he curled them slightly each time, just barely scraping Izaya's prostate every time he thrust them in. "Ooooh...yes..." Shizuo was twitching with every moan coming from Izaya's lips. If he didn't control himself, he was going to come. Adding a third finger sent a wave of pleasure up Izaya's spine. "Ahhh! Gooood...Shizu-chan..." Izaya was almost breathless. "I need you...inside me. Now" Shizuo didn't need to be told twice. He removed his fingers and hooked Izaya's legs over his shoulders, positioning himself at his opened hole. "Fuck me now!" Izaya practically demanded. Shizuo could see his cock had twitched back to life again. Huh. Shizuo removed Izaya's legs from his shoulders and moved them both so that Izaya was facing away from him. It didn't take the informant long before he knew what was happening. Izaya grabbed the top of the head board, his knees resting comfortably on the pillows. Shizuo leaned over him, pressing light kisses on Izaya's shoulder blades.

"I love you..."

"Shizu-chan...fuck me, hard" Izaya twitched and took a deep breath to calm himself. "And, I love you too" Shizuo smiled and without any more delay, he pushed his cock inside, thrusting deeply all the way in. Izaya tightened his grip on the board, Shizuo's hardened member filling him. "Ngh..."

Shizuo grunted at the sudden force "Are you ok?"

"Fine. Just move" Shizuo pulled back and then thrust again, he repeated this a couple of times before Izaya demanded again "Harder!" Shizuo shifted and placed his hands against Izaya's hips. He'd gotten a lot better at controlling his strength now. He pushed into him with a little more force and began to pound against him. "More! Faster!" Izaya gripped the bars harder, his head leaning against the metal top. Shizuo pulled back and sped up, the flesh on flesh action caused them friction as Shizuo pounded into him repeatedly. "Harder!" tightening his hold on Izaya's hips ever so slightly, he pulled back all the way-almost so that the tip of his cock was just at the entrance and then thrust back in as hard as he could. "Aaaah..." Shizuo repeated this action a few times and then pushed against him with deep hard moves. "Ah! Ah! Ah!" Izaya was too far gone to care about his desperate cries. Shizuo didn't seem to mind. He pounded into him with great need, he then switched angles and then hit Izaya's prostate multiple times. Izaya cried out in pleasure, pushing back against him as if to get more of Shizuo's shaft. Shizuo's hand came around the front and began stroking Izaya's hardened leaking member. Izaya moaned loudly and breathlessly repeated Shizuo's name. Shizuo was close, so close. He stroked Izaya fast in time with his hard thrusts, Izaya could feel Shizuo tensing, which in turn caused himself to tense. With a last bit of desperation. Izaya shouted. "Fuck me! Fuck me! Fuck me!" Shizuo pulled back once more, almost all the way out and then came crashing back inside full force, thrusting up into him a couple more times before releasing himself inside him. Twitching and pushing against him as his seed spilled inside and out onto the bed covers. Izaya yelled out as he came in a harsh wave, spilling himself into Shizuo's hand and onto the pillows. The two collapsed in a heap, breathing heavily. "W-what...what just happened?"

Izaya was asking him that? Izaya winced as Shizuo pulled out and then lay breathlessly on his back. "I don't know..."

Izaya shifted and lay his head on Shizuo's chest, feeling his heart race. "I'm sorry..."

Shizuo's arm came to rest over Izaya's. Why was the informant acting insecure all of a sudden? "What for?"

"I don't know. I don't usually demand it so much" ah, Izaya was clearly embarrassed by his actions, or rather, his words. "I'm sorry"

"Don't be. You've got nothing to be sorry about. I loved every minute of it. I'm not embarrassed"

Izaya looked up at him, leaning on his elbow and then grinned. "Liar"

"Ok. So that was a little more aggressive then usual. But, it has been a while"

Izaya chuckled and then lay his head back down "I should have asked you to move in weeks ago"

Shizuo clicked his tongue and then laughed lightly.

December 6th

Shizuo leaned over the couch, his arms resting over the top, his phone in one hand as he looked over at Izaya. The informant was fully healed now, Shizuo couldn't be more happier, it meant that Izaya could indulge himself fully in his work which-and Shizuo wouldn't tell him this-but it brightened up Izaya's red tinted eyes. He just watched him for a moment, grinning as he typed away, though he could trust that Izaya wouldn't cause any trouble for unnecessary innocents. They'd made a deal, it was the best kind of deal that they could make, given their personalities. Izaya promised not to cause harm or emotional pain to those who didn't deserve it, only accepting jobs and causing chaos to the ass holes that did. Shizuo promised to trust that when Izaya worked, that he could take care of himself, that he need not worry about him all the time. The only acceptable case was if, if Izaya felt like he needed him, needed him there to help out if he found himself in trouble. Shizuo could accept that, after all, now that they both had friends, Shizuo need not worry so much because Izaya had people that actually cared about him.

Shizuo had been living at the apartment for almost a month now. It took a little while to get used to, but what was Izaya's was now his and visa versa. It only helped them become closer. At first, Shizuo thought that it might have a negative effect, being constantly with each other. That wasn't the case, given their job stature, neither was home much when the other was, so this was a nice change.

"Something on your mind?" came Izaya's smooth voice from his desk.

"Actually. Just got a message through from Celty. She and Shinra are planning a party for new years"

"Ok. Have fun" Izaya continued to type as if it was nothing to do with him.

"She asked us both if we would attend. A lot of our friends will be there, she even asked my brother" Izaya stopped typing. He chewed on his bottom lip a little, Shizuo noticed the small amount of emotion that seemed to overcome him. After all, it wasn't as if Izaya had ever been welcome to any kind of gathering, much less a celebration party. Especially one such as new years. He'd be willing to bet that this was the first year in a long time that Izaya was even going to be with someone over Christmas. "Izaya-"

"Shut up" Izaya huffed out and then carried on working. "That's a lot of people"

Shizuo raised an eyebrow "Since when does that bother you?"

"Let me rephrase that. That's a lot of people that still don't know about us"

"Like who?"

"Your brother for one"

"I don't think you have to worry about him. He'll be happy"

"I've never really seen him happy. I wouldn't be able to tell regardless"

"Don't be an ass hole" Izaya chuckled "Who else doesn't know about us?"

"There's also Dotachin. And his weird posse group"

"Really? They're hardly going to be angry"

"Maybe not. But he's known us a long time. It's not exactly casual news here"

"Is this your way of saying you don't wanna go? I thought you didn't really care what people thought?"

"I don't. Much. It's a little more different this time. It's us as in us, together. They'll be shocked we're in the same room without killing each other! Much less in a relationship"

Shizuo sighed. Izaya did have a point. "I guess you're right. But in the end, they'll see it's better, they'll be pretty happy for us. I think"

Izaya looked over at him, realising that this was obviously pretty important to him. Izaya sighed and left his computer and walked over to Shizuo on the couch. "I suppose this is the first time in a while that you've seen your brother over the holidays"

Shizuo almost turned red from embarrassment. "Well. Yeah. I don't get to see him much. Celty said he was definitely going to be there. I already know I won't see him for Christmas. So, I suppose, yeah it has been sometime. What about you? When was the last time you saw your sisters for the holidays? Even on new years"

Izaya shrugged. "I send them a message"

"A message. I rest my case"

"It's enough"

"I don't think that's going to cut it this year"

Izaya thought about that, it was true, Mairu and Kururi had gotten closer to him since he'd been shot. They had thought that they were going to lose him forever. He guessed that might cause one's siblings to become somewhat affectionate toward them. "You're probably right" Izaya sighed. "I suppose Celty has invited them?"

"Yep"

"Of course she did" Izaya looked away from the couch and then over to the gap next to his desk. He grinned and then turned back to Shizuo, excitement was shining in his eyes. "I'll make a deal with you"

"Why does there always have to be conditions?"

Izaya ignored him. "I've never had a Christmas tree"

Shizuo stared in confusion "What?"

"I've never had a Christmas tree" Izaya repeated "I think it might be a nice homely touch. You help me get a tree, a real tree, and we can go to that party, together, as a couple" Izaya pouted at the gap. "She had one job" Namie was suppose to water the plant while he was cooped up in hospital, she clearly had neglected it and the thing was brown and bristled by the time they got back. Shizuo had been a bit surprised, he didn't even think the plant was real. "It's a good job I didn't have a pet" Izaya then turned back to the blonde "So?"

Izaya was willing to ignore his insecurities and attend a gathering with their friends. All Shizuo had to do was get him a tree. How hard could that be?

…...

"Turn left a bit" Izaya instructed as he bounced up the stairs toward the floor of his apartment.

"You know. You could help me"

"I am helping"

"I can't exactly see you know"

"That's why I'm instructing you"

"Like you instructed me to walk right over an iced pond?"

"It was a short cut" Izaya grinned as the image of Shizuo getting incredibly pissed off as he slid on his ass about four times before he eventually got to the other side, all the while Izaya practically skating passed him on his flat shoes. "I thought you were going to break the ice and fall through"

"Yeah. How tragic that would have been for you. You'd have been too busy laughing your ass off to help any"

Izaya chuckled and then said "Nothing else I could have done"

"Thanks"

Izaya shrugged and then tapped the tree for Shizuo to stop. "Lift your foot. We're at the top" Shizuo took another step up and then Izaya guided him along the corridor. "Ok. We're home" Izaya unlocked their door and they walked inside, sighing in relief as they felt the warmth hit them. Shizuo didn't normally feel the cold, but walking so far with the tree, with his bare hands-since Izaya claimed to only have one pair of gloves-one tended to get a bit chilly. He wondered just how many weird looks the two had gotten on their way back here. He just knew Izaya was getting a pretty good laugh out of this, at his expense. Izaya placed the two bags of decorations they had gotten also, down by the back of the couch. Izaya shivered and then stretched. "I'm going to take a nap I think"

Shizuo glared at him "You've got to be fucking joking right?"

"What? I'm tired"

Shizuo dropped the tree beside the couch "You're tired!? I'm the one that lugged that thing all the way here!"

"I worked all day yesterday. With the excitement of buying all the decorations today, I'm a little tired" Izaya said it so innocently. Shizuo relented, he couldn't stay mad at the informant for long when he was like this. Izaya looked so much like a cat when he was tired. He was also like a damn child.

…...

Shizuo had finally managed to stand the large pined tree up sturdily where the plant used to be. He was surprised by his controlled temper, as it wasn't the easiest thing to do, especially with no help. He looked over at the couch. Izaya had bathed and then dressed into a big white jumper and some woolly bottoms, now he was snuggled up with a blanket on the couch, fast asleep. He looked so damn cute that Shizuo didn't have the heart to wake him up.

Getting the ornament's around and on the tree was surprisingly easy, he was rather proud of his work actually. The beads hung nicely around the branches, from top to bottom. The baubles hung delicately from the ends in a nice pattern of red and gold. Now for the lights. Shizuo looked down at them, neatly reeled around squared plastic. "How hard could they be?" he asked himself as he took them out from the bag. He pulled at the plug to begin unravelling them, he moved the plastic in a circle as the string of lights came away, more and more. Shizuo began to frown. "Damn. There's just no end to these things" Before he knew it, the lights were in a big bundle on the floor. Shizuo looked down at them. "Where the hell did the end go?" he grabbed some of the wire with both hands, searching for the plug, he dropped some of it and then grabbed another. It wasn't long before Shizuo became a tangled mess of lights. "Fucking lights"

Izaya stirred as he became aware of Shizuo's curses. He pulled himself up and looked over the couch, the first thing he noticed was Shizuo, wrapped in tangled up lights. He smirked and then said "You're suppose to put the lights on the tree"

Shizuo glared over at him "Don't. Talk to me" Shizuo turned around, he tried to step out of the collected wire on the floor and almost tripped. Izaya tensed as he noticed the vein making it's way on Shizuo's forehead.

"Want some help. Shizu-chan?"

"No! I can do this. They're just fucking lights"

Izaya continued to watch him struggle. He smirked as Shizuo tried to throw part of the string of lights over the tree. He then winced when it only caused the blonde to stumble against the tree, evidently knocking most of the baubles off. Izaya didn't say anything, though he was close to bursting with laughter. He got up from the couch. "I think I better help" Izaya got to the other side of the tree and helped by balancing it straight again. He then walked around to Shizuo, he ducked as a fist came toward him as Shizuo thrashed around in an effort to dis-tangle himself. Izaya chuckled and Shizuo glared at him, he angrily ripped the cable and the middle broke away and only then was the blonde able to get himself free. "You know. I would have helped"

"Really!?" Shizuo span around and kicked the pile of lights, it smacked into the tree, the beaded chains came away and more baubles clunked to the floor. "That's it!" Izaya stepped out of the way and Shizuo lifted the tree up from the floor.

"Wait-" Izaya tried to warn him, too late, Shizuo soon threw the tree forward and it crashed through the window, the glass shattered outward and the tree went with it, along with the decorations. Silence ensued. Shizuo breathed heavily, coming down from his angry spurt. Izaya walked over with his hands in his jumper to his now broken window and looked down into the street. "Well. You'll be pleased to know it didn't hit anyone"

Shizuo's eyes widened a little as he stood next to Izaya, looking down. "Erm. Does this mean the deals off?"

Izaya sighed. Now he had a broken window-that was going to cost him a pretty penny-and he still had no tree. "Stupid protozoan"

"Sorry" Shizuo grumbled

"Next time. I'm doing the tree" Izaya said as they continued to look at the fallen Christmas mess.

…...

The next day, Shizuo came home to Izaya handing over a wad of cash to a repair man. He felt incredibly guilty about it throughout the day. He looked hesitantly over at the informant as the repair man left. Izaya looked at him, realising Shizuo shuffling as he then looked down at his feet. Izaya laughed "No need to sulk. I half expected this months ago"

"You were expecting me to break your window?"

Izaya rolled his eyes. "No. your outburst. Think about it. It's been quite a while since you went off the rails. When was that?"

"This is your logic? Depending on how long ago I snapped will depend on my next short fuse?"

Izaya placed his hands on his hips "I'm just trying to rule things out. You're just lucky I didn't make you pay for that repair"

"I said I would though"

Izaya sighed. "It wouldn't be right to make you pay for something you have no control over"

"But I live here now. I should fix the things I break"

"Part of this was my fault I suppose. Who knew that putting up a simple Christmas tree would be so stressful"

Shizuo snorted "Maybe not for others"

"I guess not. Well, like I said, I think I better do the tree next year"

Shizuo smiled a little. Next year it meant that their future together would last. "Do you wanna go get another one?"

Izaya shrugged "It doesn't matter. Most trees are up by now. Don't worry about it"

"Are you sure?"

"Let's talk about the 25th"

"Ok?"

"What do you want to do? I don't really know if there's anything specific that you like to do on that day"

"I don't really do much. I sometimes visit my folks. But not in the last two years"

Izaya tilted his head and then said "Maybe next year"

"Really?"

"It is a bit short notice this year"

"I know. But I'm more surprised you would even go with me"

"That's what you said you did. Isn't Christmas suppose to be about family? I personally don't care"

"Tst. Yeah, I've met your family. Can't say I blame you"

Izaya chuckled and then wrapped his arms around Shizuo's neck. "Cooking on that day however, doesn't quite appeal to me. I work most of the year, I do like to relax sometimes"

"One out of three hundred and sixty five days isn't sometimes Izaya"

Izaya pouted "For your information I always take vacation days in December" Izaya then said proudly "Twenty third right up until the second"

Shizuo's eyebrows rose in surprise "Really?"

"Yes. People do that you know"

"Yes. People do. Normal people do"

"You don't believe me?"

"What did you do?"

Izaya walked toward his desk and placed his wallet inside his locked draw. "I went to New York" Izaya said casually.

Shizuo blinked, was he serious? "You're kidding right?"

"What would I have to gain by lying about that? Other then to see your face right now" Izaya grinned as he moved back toward the blonde.

"Shut up. You're honestly telling me that you flew out to New York for Christmas, by yourself"

"Why not? I have the money. I don't spend it on unnecessary things. I treated myself"

"That's still weird"

Izaya shook his head, he really didn't see the big deal. "You know. Hotels have some of the most interesting people. There can be a lot of secrets to unravel and a whole lot of info to go with it. Especially in a place like New York and on Christmas"

"Yeah. Get to know any of these interesting people?"

Izaya rolled his eyes. "Past tense Shizu-chan. Give me a break. I was on vacation"

"I know. Sorry" Shizuo knew he had no reason to be jealous. It wasn't as if they were even remotely together back then. They still hated each other at the time. "So. Was there something you wanted to do? You mentioned you didn't want to cook. I can cook Christmas dinner, if you want"

Izaya almost laughed "Ramen isn't exactly Christmas food. Besides. I just had the window fixed. I don't want my crockery joining the tree on the street"

Shizuo frowned and then nodded "I suppose. I can't believe no one has moved it yet"

"Or taken it for themselves"

"You wanna see if Shinra and Celty will have us?"

Izaya snorted "We're not a charity case. I think we should go out for dinner"

Shizuo stared at him "Do you know how difficult it is to book a table anywhere on Christmas day?"

Izaya grinned "Does that mean you've tried?"

"Hell no. Imagine the pity looks?"

"No different then usual ne?"

Shizuo shoved him backwards. Izaya barely stumbled but he was laughing. "You're lucky I don't throw you out the window"

"Tut tut. Don't be like that. I was teasing"

"Sure you were"

"Anyway. I've already got us a table booked. Because I am an amazing boyfriend. And of course, a fantastic informant"

Shizuo shook his head at his big headed partner. "All right Mr gloater. Where did you manage to get us?"

Izaya smirked and lifted his hand up "Drum roll please..." he said smugly, Shizuo rolled his eyes. "Or an eye roll"

"Just tell me"

"Crista"

Shizuo's eyes grew wide. "Really? That's-wow. Izaya. That's pretty impressive"

"I know. Thank you"

"But- what about everyone around us? Aren't you still worried about people seeing us together?"

Izaya chuckled "I think that ship sailed when I got shot, don't you think?"

Shizuo laughed. "Yeah. I guess so"

"Still. It'll be fun to watch how they feel about our situation"

"If you say so" Izaya smirked and then leaned up to kiss him, Shizuo met him half way.

"This is my Christmas present to you. So no need to worry ok?"

"But-"

"No buts. Besides. Now that you know it's a Christmas present. You can't argue with me"

"Smug bastard"

"Thank you"

24th December

Izaya and Shizuo were laid out across the couch, their half finished Coco resting in their laps. It was almost midnight, Shizuo was almost asleep, so content and comfortable, when out of the blue Izaya said "Shizu-chan! Look" Izaya sat up from the couch, placing his mug on the table and walked over to the window. "It's snowing" Shizuo looked over and got up to stand beside him "The ground is already white" Shizuo smiled, he loved this side of Izaya, the playful side, it didn't come out very often.

"Looks like a white Christmas. That's pretty cool"

"Wanna go up to the roof?"

"Now?"

"What are the odds that it snows on Christmas day? This is like, one of those once in a long time opportunity type moments. We have to embrace it"

"We do?"

Izaya pouted "Yes. Come on Shizu-chaaaan" Izaya whined. Shizuo laughed and then said

"Does this mean I get to beat your ass with snowballs?"

"Think you can?"

Izaya smirked and the two wrapped themselves up in warm clothes and quickly made their way to the roof.

The snow was falling heavily by the time they got outside, the ground had accumulated over five inches of snow. Their boots crunched against the white powder. They looked up into the sky, Izaya held out his tongue as he walked forward, catching snow flakes, feeling the temporary cold substance before it was gone in an instant. Shizuo merely stood and watched him, his fur jacket done up and his hood over his head. The snow falling down on them, and the illumination from the lights around the building. Izaya turned to him and Shizuo's breath hitched. He's beautiful. Shizuo thought. It was true, Izaya looked absolutely amazing to him, in this wintry scene, he almost looked like an angel. Izaya noticed Shizuo spacing out, he grinned and knelt down, balling up a snow ball and throwing it with a well perfect aim to Shizuo's face. Shizuo stumbled backwards, his face numbing slightly from the ice cold snow as it fell off in clumps. He swiped the rest away with a gloved hand, to see Izaya laughing hysterically. "You're so dead"

"Oh? Come on then. Show me what you got" Izaya smirked at him, watching as Shizuo balled up his own snow ball and then stepping back as the ball came hurdling toward him. Watching as the snow fell apart by his feet. Izaya tutted. "Poor Shizu-chan. Forgetting that I've had enough street items thrown at me to predict where his sources will land" Izaya then looked up to see Shizuo come running at him. After that, it was like old times, the two chasing each other around the roof, the only difference was that neither one was angry. They threw snowballs, they pulled at the others clothes to try and pin each other down. Neither one could fully catch the other, Izaya then jumped off from his position on the small air vent and landed against Shizuo, they both toppled to the floor. Izaya leaned over the blonde, his hands holding Shizuo's above his head. "I win" Izaya said, his breath showing in the cold night air.

"I let you"

"Sure you did" Izaya leaned down and kissed him. "Merry Christmas. Shizu-chan"

"Merry Christmas Izaya" They kissed for another minute and then Shizuo felt Izaya shiver a little against him. "Cold?"

"No. Freezing"

Shizuo laughed and then stood up, holding out his hand for Izaya. The informant took it and brushed the snow off from himself, he then turned and jumped on Shizuo's back. "Seriously?"

"I'm tired"

"You're such a child"

Izaya poked his tongue out.

They got back into the warm apartment, Izaya made his way to the kitchen to make more coco after they'd changed into more nightwear. Shizuo stood at the kitchen archway, one hand behind his back. "Izaya?"

Izaya turned around with two steaming mugs, one adorning whipped cream and chocolate shavings, Shizuo's favourite of course. Izaya placed them on the table when he saw the blonde looking a little embarrassed. "Hiding something?"

"No."

"No? Then why is your hand behind your back hm?" Izaya lightly smiled as he walked toward him.

"It's-not much. But I thought it was something you'd like. I guess"

Izaya held his hand out "No need for embarrassments"

"It's just- I didn't know what else to get and I haven't had time to shop much"

"Who cares. I want my present" Izaya curled his hand repeatedly in a 'gimme gimme' motion. He really was a child sometimes.

Shizuo rolled his eyes, then he revealed a long green box with a red ribbon around it. Izaya took the box, his eyes glinting with excitement as he ran over to the couch with it. Shizuo followed, taking the mugs with him and placed them on the coffee table. He watched with slight amusement as Izaya carefully undid the ribbon and then lifted the lid off. He pulled back the thin paper and lifted the item out of the box. It was a black jacket, similar to his usual favourite he wore, except the fur trim was red.

"I-hope you like it. I know you said your favourite colours were black and red, I'm positive you don't have this kind" Izaya stared at it. It had been a long time since he'd received any kind of present, least of all something so obviously thought out. He placed the jacket on the table and walked over to Shizuo and kissed him and then buried his face in the crook of Shizuo's neck. "Do you like it?"

Izaya grunted as his hands clutched at Shizuo's night shirt. "Thank you..."

31st January

Shizuo growled as he looked at his watch, he cursed a certain informant's name as he paced outside Shinra's building. Izaya was late. He didn't doubt Izaya would show, but he was growing annoyed. The man promised him that they'd show up to the party as a couple. He didn't have the guts to enter the apartment on his own, knowing that everyone was already going to be there. Even so, he'd rather not wait outside like an idiot on his own much longer. Shizuo decided to go into the building, he could wait outside Shinra's door, rather then outside where people kept looking at him.

One hour ago

Izaya checked his phone, he clicked his tongue, knowing that he was going to be late if the people in front of him didn't move quicker. His idea to stop and get Shizuo a gift was starting to feel like the worst idea ever. But it was the only store still open, who knew there'd be a fucking line! Izaya sent a quick text to Shizuo, telling him to start making his way to Shinra's and that he'd meet him there. Hopefully, by the time Izaya was done, Shizuo would be just walking toward the building. "Being thoughtful is so annoying"

Finally. Finally he was at the end of the queue. He glanced up at the clock behind the counter. Shizuo was so going to kick his ass for this. He figured the blonde wouldn't go inside without him, so he was either still waiting outside in the snow, probably had about ten cigarettes- or he was stood outside Shinra's door. Izaya soon paid for his ordered item and then quickly made it out of the store. When he stepped out onto the snowy ground, he heard a low growl. Immediately knowing it couldn't have been Shizuo, he turned slowly to his right. Izaya's eyes widened in pure fear. There stood a large dog, brown fur and no collar-that Izaya could see. He slowly put the item in his jacket pocket and took a step back. "Nice dog?" Izaya took another step back, his heart began to race, he had no idea where the mutt had come from but it had clearly escaped from somewhere. Izaya came to the conclusion that his fur jacket might have somehow offended it. The dog growled again and Izaya wasted no time and began to run. It was a good thing he was a fast runner. He dared look back, the dog was still running after him. "Go away!" Izaya shouted, more to himself. He ran across the snowy pathway, being careful not to slip on the icy drains. He soon spotted Simon outside the sushi place, the man had obviously drawn the short straw at having to work on new years eve. Simon looked up when he heard a shout come from his left. "Izaya?"

"Hi simon!" Izaya greeted quickly on his way toward him.

"Yo! Izaya! You good?"

"Yep! I'm good. Don't worry. I got this"

Simon looked behind Izaya to see the large dog that was obviously chasing him. Simon crouched low to catch it but the dog slipped passed him. "Dogs no climb!" he shouted

"I'm aware!" he heard Izaya shout in reply. Izaya couldn't remember the last time he was so terrified. His phone rang suddenly, he picked it out from his jacket to answer.

"Where the hell are you!?"

"A little busy right now Shizu-chan!"

"Just what the hell are you doing that's so damn important!?" Shizuo shouted. The people that were stood around the hall, turned when they heard Shizuo's voice bellow from outside. "You promised me!"

"What's that about?" Kadota asked no one in particular, as he sipped his bottle of ashri

Shinra soon joined them "What's that racket I hear?"

"Dunno. Shizuo's arguing with someone. Sounds domestic if you ask me"

Shinra smiled. "Lovers tiff"

"Excuse me?"

"Yeah. Shizuo's bringing a surprise date. He wants people to meet him"

"Him?"

"Oh. Whoops. Guess that secrets out"

Kadota didn't seem all that fazed. "Him huh? Well, good for him. He deserves someone"

They heard Shizuo yell again and then abruptly stop as he slowly made his way through the door. He looked up as familiar faces stared back at him. "You know. It's not polite to yell at your date just because they're late" Walker said.

"He deserves it. He's an ass hole. Wait- how did you know about-" Shizuo then looked over at Shinra. The shorter man laughed nervously.

"Don't worry! I didn't tell them anything-specific the date part just slipped out. They also know it's a guy"

"Shinra!" Shizuo growled and Shinra scampered away back into the living room.

"Happy for you man" Kadota said, raising his bottle toward him

"T-thanks..."

"Who is it?" Walker asked

"What's he like?" Came Erika's voice, her eyes shone with a fantasizing glint

"An ass hole Apparently" Kadota said.

Erika walked toward Shizuo and stopped in front of him. She looked up into his eyes and then her own widened. "Oh my god! It's-" Shizuo quickly covered her mouth.

"Not. "

Erika wanted to squeal, she had waited so long for this day, who knew it was actually true. She smiled up at him and then winked. "I knew it" She whispered. Shizuo blushed and looked away. Erika walked back toward her friends.

"Care to share?" Walker said

"Nope. I'm gonna let you all be surprised. Come on. Let's mingle!" she said and led them into the apartment.

Shizuo stared after them "How the hell did she know?" he then heard the front door open and shut quickly. He frowned over as the informant slouched against the door, a hand to his chest. Clearly out of breath. Shizuo stormed over to him, ready to give him a piece of his mind. "Where the hell have you-" Izaya threw himself at Shizuo, clutching against him, his breathing erratic. "Izaya? What's up?" Izaya didn't reply, he just stood and sought out Shizuo's comforting embrace. "You're shaking..."

Izaya took a few deep breaths, then looked up at Shizuo "Hey"

"Hey? That's all you can say?"

"Sorry. I'm a little late. I got a little-delayed"

Shizuo held Izaya's hand "What happened? You look a fright"

"Fine now. I'm here at least ne?" Shinra came back out into the hall, he saw that Izaya was finally here. The informant pulled his hand back and grinned sheepishly at his friend. "Sorry I'm late"

"We were waiting. Where were you?"

"Had something to take care of"

Shinra frowned and walked toward him, pushing his glasses up as he studied Izaya's face. He could see the remaining fear in his friend's eyes and the slight tremble from his body as his coat moved. He smiled a little, couldn't help the knowing grin. "Izaya. Was you chased by a dog?"

"No!"

"I've only seen that look in your eyes when you've been around a dog"

Shizuo looked at Shinra and then at Izaya.

"It wasn't my fault. It came out of nowhere. My jacket probably offended it" Shinra chuckled and then lay his hand on his friend's shoulder and then walked back toward the living room.

"You're afraid of dogs?" Shizuo asked

"Deathly" Izaya replied in quiet embarrassment

"I didn't know that"

"The subject never came up. I also can't swim"

"Really? Is that why you said there'd be nothing you could do if I fell through the ice?"

Izaya shrugged.

Shizuo took Izaya's trembling hand "You're safe now"

"Shut up. Don't tease. That's mean"

"I wasn't"

Izaya calmed. He then nodded to the living room. "Might as well get this over with hm?"

"Yeah. Like you said. There's a few that still don't know"

"Is your brother here yet?"

"I don't know. Been stood out here waiting for you"

"Let's shock some humans. Shall we?" Izaya said as he curled their fingers together and lead them into the living room.

Shinra, Celty, Tom and Izaya's sisters turned and smiled at them, having already known. The rest gasped in complete shock. Mouth's open like fish.

"Wait. Izaya is Shizuo's guy?" Kadota said in disbelief. He rubbed his eyes, as if that was going to clear away the image. "Did I miss something? When could those two possibly be in the same room-let alone-"

Izaya smirked. He removed his hand from Shizuo's grip and laid a hand on Kadota's shoulder. "What can I say. I'm irresistible, even to my arch enemy"

"No way. Izaya and Shizuo? The hell? It's like I woke up in some creepy manga written by Erika" Walker yelled, at which point their female friend squealed loudly.

"Yes! yes! I told you! I told you! Shizuo has the hots for Izaya! I knew it! Oh my god this is great! Boy love rules! Shipping never fails!"

Shizuo covered his face, Izaya looked over at him and laughed. He then looked at Kadota. "So it's true?" the bandanna covered man asked

"No jokes Dotachin. We even live together"

There was silence for a moment. "Holy shit. Well. Ok, I'm happy for you, I guess?" Izaya held his hand out. Kadota looked at him and then smiled as he took his hand to shake. It was kind of a silent apology on Izaya's part, he knew that if Kadota forgave him for all the shit he'd caused, everyone else would too. Shizuo had already done that for him. But it meant a lot from Kadota, he was like everyone's big brother.

"Let's get this party started!" Shinra shouted and bottles were heard popping up, glasses clinking as drinks were poured.

Izaya stood back over with Shizuo, feeling less approachable with him beside him. He knew there'd be a lot of questions coming their way.

"Nii-saaaan!" Came one of his sisters happy voices from the balcony doors. Mairu and Kururi soon bounded over to them.

"Hey you two. I hope you're not stealing people's drinks"

Mairu placed her hands on her hips "We're not kids"

"Shinra said we can have one drink to celebrate the new year in" Kururi said

"Yeah! So we're waiting ok?"

"You seen my brother around yet?" Shizuo asked

"Yes! We got his autograph! Isn't that great!" Mairu exclaimed excitedly.

"He's around somewhere"

"Well, we're going to find Celty, she promised that we could play with her shadows"

Izaya smiled teasingly "I thought you two were too old to play games now?"

Mairu poked her tongue out "Shadows from mythical awesome people don't count!"

"All right. Be careful. She's got a temper" Izaya felt a soft pillow hit his head, he turned to see Celty at the door way. He gave her a wave. Smirking a little. She puffed her shadows at him from her neck.

"Celty!" the twins shouted as they bounded up to her.

"I'm gonna go find my brother. I'll be back in minute ok?"

"I'm not a child Shizu-chan. I can be left unattended for a short time" Izaya grinned

Shizuo snorted "Like I believe that"

"Which part has doubt?"

Shizuo shook his head as Izaya laughed. The informant remained with his back to the wall. It felt a little awkward. These were people familiar to him, yet he couldn't shake the feeling that he needed to keep his guard up. He knew it was ridiculous, but he couldn't help it.

Izaya looked around the room, everyone was laughing and joking around, as if they'd already gotten used to him and Shizuo being together. Maybe having Kadota's blessing seemed to help. Izaya then spotted Shizuo coming back over to him, he wasn't alone this time. Izaya felt for his blade on instinct, it wasn't there, he'd left it at home just this once. He didn't even know why he'd reached for it, this was Shizuo's brother, it was as if it was the last remaining blessing they needed. Except for Shizuo's parents of course, but that was an obstacle for another time. Izaya wasn't even sure if he cared about blessings. There wasn't much to tell from Kasuka's facial expression.

"While it's not what I expected. Not what anyone expected I imagine. Shizuo tells me you make him happy. That's all I care about. Don't hurt him" Kasuka held his hand out. Shizuo scratched his head in embarrassment. Izaya took the brother's hand.

"Shizu-chan can take care of himself. But, if you need to be reassured, you need not worry. Our feelings are mutual"

Shizuo stared in surprise, Kasuka nodded and then left the two alone. "Thanks"

"For what?"

"You didn't have to do that"

"You treat my sisters like your own. I should somewhat try and do the same"

Shizuo leaned in for a kiss but they were interrupted by a shout. "Erika! No!" came a shout from Walker.

Erika come bounding over to them, jumping up and down. "I have a question. I'm dying to ask you!"

Izaya chuckled, god only knew what her mind was picturing. "What is it?"

"Which one of you is Seme and which of you is Uke?"

"Erika!"

Izaya raised an eyebrow and then looked up at Shizuo. Shizuo looked down at him, the confused expression told Izaya he had no idea what Erika was talking about. "What?"

Izaya laughed "She's basically asking who's more dominant. Who tops and who bottoms"

Erika's eyes lit up in anticipation. "I bet you guys do a lot of role play too! Izaya using his knife to just gently cut Shizuo's skin and-"

"Not appropriate! That is not being discussed!" Shizuo shouted

"Come on Shizu-chan, don't be so harsh. This girl is a yaoi fanatic. We have to give her something"

"No we don't!" Izaya leaned forward and whispered something in Erika's ear and she screamed and ran off practically crying. Shizuo blinked in surprise. "What did you say to her?"

"I told her Seke"

"What does that mean?"

"It means both. We both top and we both bottom"

"I really don't want our private business being discussed in code"

Izaya laughed. "It's not code. Its Manga"

"Whatever. It's wrong"

Izaya grinned up at him "It is?"

"You know what I mean"

…...

"Hey everyone! Two minutes till midnight. Let's all get outside" Shinra said. Some stood out on the balcony, some stayed in the living room to watch the fireworks from the windows. Izaya and Shizuo stood on the top of the small roof that hung over the balcony. Their hand's curled around each other as they looked toward the sky. "Thirty seconds!"

"Shizu-chan?"

"Yeah?"

"This is going to sound a bit odd. If a little cliché"

"Ok?"

10

9

8

7

6

Izaya stood away from the blonde, taking out a small box from his jacket.

5

4

3

Izaya knelt down on one knee, opening the box to reveal a gold band. "Will you marry me?"

2

1

Happy new year!

Shizuo stared wide eyed down at his partner. He had no words. His throat seemed to close up and his eyes became a little blurred. "I-Izaya..."

Izaya tensed, waiting...

"Yes. Yes I will"

Izaya grinned, slipping the ring on his left finger and then stood up. The fireworks boomed in the background the minute the two kissed.

Love comes in unsuspecting ways. Even love can grow between two enemies. Izaya and Shizuo were always destined for one another, no matter who they were.