Heyo! Greetings all my lurverly readers. Sorry about the late update. I meant to do it sooner but had my family reunion over the holiday weekend *mouth waters as thinks about BBQ and potato salad*. Anyhow, on with the story!

DISCLAIMER: I do not own Vampire Knight, if I did, Zero would love Aidou, not Yuki.

Warnings: The usual.


Fateful Decisions

Zero awakened, face scrunching when he felt an odd sensation in his mouth. What the hell? He cracked open an eye and found his little Hana-chan flossing his teeth.

Aidou's eyes widened with joy when he heard the subtle change in Zero's breathing, and an amethyst eye opened. He withdrew the floss from Zero's open mouth, then the bite guard, and pounced on his mate.

Zero winced, pain shooting through his torso. He was happy to see his mate too, but they needed a better position. Another wince escaped him when Aidou squeezed. "Hana, baby, let me sit up before you pounce on me."

Aidou drew away quickly, chastising himself for forgetting Zero's yet to heal injury.

Zero grunted as a zap of pain stabbed into his torso. Apparently, he still had bruised ribs. He smiled softly at the small vampire waiting with little patience. Once into a sitting position he nodded.

Aidou draped himself around Zero, wallowing in his love's odor. He looked up at his lover. Zero's eyes had never been so beautiful. "I-I thought I'd lost you." He whispered before his mates lips in a fervent kiss to his lips.

Zero reeled in the kiss, sensing all of Aidou's emotions flowing through their bond. He drew away when he caught the hint of salt in the air. With a loving smile he wiped Aidou's tears. "I'm here now, love."

Aidou hiccupped, tears cascading down his cheeks. "But you almost died."

Zero wrapped his arms around the elfin vampire, smiling down into blue eyes. Worry pricked him when he noticed the dark circles beneath his mate's eyes. However before he could comment on it, sudden hunger clawed into him. Greedy lips trailed down a milky neck, questing for his mate's delicious elixir. He flicked his tongue over his preferred location, tasting the salt on his skin, listening to the blood rushing through his veins. Tears prickled his eyes when he thought about never seeing his little mate again. Sighing, he sank his fangs into Aidou's flesh. Delicious blood flooded his mouth, coating his tongue.

Aidou shifted into a better position, tilting slightly, and mimicked Zero's action.

Kaname ascended the staircase, stopping short when he smelled both Zero and Aidou's blood. He turned and retraced his steps, unwilling to interrupt such an intimate act.

An amalgam of emotions infused Aidou's blood including love, relief, and overwhelming joy. Zero reveled in them. The emotions buzzed through his veins wrapping him in a euphoric blanket. Reluctantly, he extracted his fangs, lovingly erasing any stray droplets. While waiting for his mate to finish, he rubbed his downy hair, whispering sweetly to him.

Aidou withdrew swallowing the last drop and licked the wounds until they closed.

After their bodies stopped humming with satiety, Zero sighed. "Okay, I think I'll go take a bath." He threw back the covers and stood, legs buckling. Two strong, slender arms enwrapped him. Zero smiled adoringly at the small blonde supporting him. He'd learned a long while ago that it was okay for Aidou to see his vulnerabilities, he didn't like it, but he knew it was acceptable.

"I'll help you bathe."

Zero mock frowned at him. "Only so you take advantage of me."

Aidou smiled impishly. "You know me so well Zero-kun." Yes half of the reason he wanted to help his mate bathe was so he could fondle him. He had been too apprehensive to touch Zero while unconscious, afraid that he would worsen any of his injuries. Now though, now he just wanted to feel his mate's skin beneath his fingers.

After getting the desired temperature he plugged the large bathtub and poured lavender vanilla scented bath salt into the water. He turned, lecherous glint in his azure orbs, and began undressing his mate.

"Hana you don't have to."

Aidou pulled the shirt over Zero's head, staring at a bare chest that was thinner than usual. He shook his head. "You've always taken such good care of me. So please let me return the favor."

The pleading look in those soft blue eyes pulled his heart strings and he sighed nodding his approval.

After a soothing bath the couple toweled off and got into bed (it was 4 a.m. after all).

Aidou nestled into Zero's side, careful of his ribs, and gave a cheeky smile when he squeezed the other male's divine ass.

Zero sat up, grunting. He hated being limited in his movements, it made him feel weak and vulnerable. "So, your father knows. What are we going to do?"

Aidou frowned deeply. "I don't want to talk about it," he said stubbornly.

Zero eyed the small vampire with a bit of disapproval. "Then when? This isn't some problem that's going to go away if you ignore it Hanabusa," he scolded. They'd curried the wrath of Lord Aidou. He sighed inwardly. He supposed he should've expected their relationship to be discovered sooner or later. Actually, he wasn't surprised it was just that… How was he supposed to protect Hana from his father?

Aidou flinched at the tone in Zero's voice. "Not now. Now, I don't want to talk about anything. I just want to lay here with you." He nuzzled Zero's shoulder, looking up at his mate with wavering blue eyes.

Zero inwardly cursed. Why hadn't he bothered to build up immunity to that adorable look? He put an arm around Aidou's slim shoulders, ignoring the bite of protest from his ribs.

Aidou sighed in alleviation. Zero was safe and he could finally sleep. He smiled drowsily at his mate before succumbing to the soft persuasions of sleep.


Twenty minutes later, Zero climbed out of bed, already feeling loads better after having fed from Aidou. Turning, he ruffled his mate's soft blonde hair, worrying about the dark circles under his eyes. He pulled the covers over Aidou, smiling when the tiny vampire stirred from the kiss he placed on his cheek. He found a pair of pants, slightly surprised to find his clothes in the closet, and a shirt and departed the room, closing the door quietly. He descended the opulent staircase and stopped at the kitchen doors (after getting lost several times), peeping through them. Ten days of being unconscious had left him ravenous for human food.

"Glad to see you awake."

Zero nearly jumped out of his skin. "Fuck Kaname!"

Kaname held back his amusement. "It was not my intention to startle you Zero-san."

Zero eyed him with unconvinced amethyst eyes.

Kaname continued undeterred. "I figured you would be hungry for human food when you awakened, so at my behest my servants prepared dinner for you."

He nodded, blushing sheepishly when his stomach gurgled loudly.

A hardly detectable upturn of his lips passed the pureblood's face. "Then follow me."

Zero followed him past the kitchen and grand dining room, into the breakfast nook. He ate up the sight in front of him. A smorgasbord of food lay on the table for two. Sushi, canoli, a frittata, grilled asparagus, oden, paella, chicken lime and corn soup, and crème brulee, lay atop the surface. "Wow." His mouth nearly watered at the sight.

He sat down, thankful for the warmth radiating from the fireplace across the room. "Thanks." Before he could tuck into the food, he looked at the lonely looking pureblood. "I can't eat all of this you know."

Kaname gave a small smile and sat down, calling for another set of dining utensils.

They ate in silence, Zero's mind steeped in deep thought. It was only when Kaname touched his hand that he awakened. "Oh… um sorry. How did they find out?" Since Kaname always seemed to know everything that went on in his jurisdiction, maybe he would know the answer to his question.

Kaname took the champagne glass from his lips and placed it on the tablecloth. "From a source that currently is unknown."

"So we can't go home?"

"Not yet, no. But my home is yours to do as you will."

So they were trapped, in the pureblood's home. "Yeah." He sighed, a rueful expression on his face. "I should've known. I had everything I ever wanted for six years. I had my Hana-chan, a steady job with the Association, a nice home, and friends. It was like my version of utopia." He chuckled bitterly. "I guess I should've known it wouldn't last long." He speared an asparagus and inserted it in his mouth. He almost jumped when Kaname started talking because honestly he'd forgotten about the pureblood's presence.

"Of course things must come to an end. Life can often be nightmarish but that only helps us to treasure those small snatches of paradise we acquire."

Zero looked down at his food, picking at it with his fork. Kaname's words held wisdom in them that resonated with his soul.

"How is Aidou?"

Zero's face softened at the name. "He's sleeping."

Kaname nodded in approval. "Good, he hardly slept while you were unconscious. He said that he was afraid that if you fell asleep you would die."

Near overwhelming dejection washed over the hunter. God why hadn't he been more alert instead of thinking about the gift he wanted to get for Aidou? He'd caused his mate so much grief. "He won't even talk about the situation."

Kaname swallowed a spoonful of soup. "You almost died Zero. He's trying to grapple with the fact that he almost lost you and the effects of nearly losing your side of the bond."

A long silence, in which Zero consumed a quarter of the scrumptious paella, ensued.

"The situation is quite dangerous right now. Hanabusa-san is his father's only son. If he has no children, the Aidou line will end with him. Lord Aidou knows this and he will do anything for an heir. He would kill you with no remorse."

Kaname's words were like a slap in the face from reality. The situation was perilous. What would happen to Aidou if he died? He needed to think. "Um Kaname?"

Kaname finished chewing a mouthful of sushi and swallowed. "Yes?"

"Thanks… for everything."

Kaname smiled congenially. "You are most welcome Zero. I was more than happy to assist you and Hanabusa-san."

Zero nodded and glanced down at his plate. "I think I'm going to go… yeah." He stood and strode away. Zero ambled down the numerous hallways of Kuran manor, his mind a vortex of chaotic thoughts. He did not know how long he wandered the corridors. All he knew that was by the time he stumbled into the library, the sun had set and was rising again.

He gazed in awe at the large domed library. The amount of books was so innumerable that Zero reckoned it would take several lifetimes to read each one. The artwork on the domed ceiling and surrounding walls was impeccably done, inciting movement in one's heart. He strode further into the vast room and started perusing the books. After finding a suitable book, he sat down in the comfortable chair.


By the time he returned to his and Aidou's room it was sundown. Zero opened the dark curtains and watched the sunset through ceiling-high windows. He turned when Aidou stirred.

"Mmm, Zero," he mumbled. He rolled over and groped the mattress. His sleep-fuddled brain panicked briefly when he didn't feel his mate, instantly calming when Zero brushed his consciousness. He sat up, rubbing sleep from his eyes.

Zero watched the display, thinking of how irresistibly cute the tiny blonde looked.

"Zero." He called groggily. Blue eyes gazed at the beautiful creature standing in the window, body outlined by the golden light of the waning sun. Delicious. He threw back the covers and sashayed to his mate.

Zero smiled eyes gleaming with lust when he realized that Aidou was stark naked and… unabashedly sporting an erection. "We need to talk." Zero knew that look in Aidou's eyes, and he was determined to resist. They had more pressing matters at hand than doing that.

Aidou nodded, nuzzling his shoulder before taking his hand. "But I'd much rather fuck," he stated huskily. Sensually he licked the tips of Zero's fingers, eyes promising naughty things. He loved Zero's masterful hands.

He swallowed thickly, skin heating, nostrils flaring. "H—," he cleared his throat, "honestly Hana I don't even think I'm up to it." Dully throbbing pain still plagued his side.

Aidou reached down grasping Zero's hardening cock. He stopped sucking just enough to speak, "I'd say you were."

Zero sighed, feeling himself begin to cave. Why couldn't he ever resist Aidou?

Aidou stood on his tiptoes, using his tongue to torture the spot directly under Zero's earlobe (a site that usually got his love to agree to anything). "Please my love? I need it."

Zero swallowed at the hot breath brushing across his ear. "Hana."

Aidou nibbled Zero's neck. "You won't have to do anything. Just let me ride you."

Zero almost came in his pants at that simple breathy request. Amethyst depth stared into heated blue and he sighed. He was going to have to learn to say no to Aidou one of these days.

Aidou gave a sexy smile and escorted him to the bed.

Zero yanked Aidou down, pressing their mouths together to swallow the smaller vampire's scream as they both came hard. After riding out his orgasm, he wrapped an arm around Aidou's slender frame, kissing his forehead, ignoring the stab of pain. Why did it have to take bones so long to heal? "Mmm. Hana," he drawled, smiling when Aidou purred. He frowned when Aidou sniffled.

Aidou looked up at his beautiful mate, eyes full of water. "Please don't ever leave me Zero." Zero was his entire world. If he ever left, he-he couldn't even begin to fathom what would happen to him.

Zero nuzzled Aidou's nose. "I won't." He held back a wince when he moved, ribs protesting.

Aidou whimpered from the emptiness of disconnecting and pressed a kiss to his lover's sternum. "And I promise to never leave you."

The two nestled together. No words were exchanged, no sounds produced. They merely indulged their senses with the sound of each breath, the rise and fall of their chest, the beat of their hearts, amethyst melting into blue, skin embracing. Nothing else mattered but this moment in time.

A vampire aura tracked over their senses. Someone knocked. "Sorry to disturb you sirs, but Kuran-sama has requested an audience with both of you in thirty minutes."

"Okay," Zero answered, batting at Aidou's hands as they traveled south.

"Very good sir."

"Come on let's get cleaned up."

After showering and going through the necessary hygienic motions, they relocated to the bedroom to dress.

Zero watched Aidou pull off his oversized shirt, a look of adoration in his eyes. "Hana," he started "tell me what happens next."

Aidou visibly cringed and tugged on his turquoise sweater. "Akatsuki is here!" He made for the door.

Zero's eyes narrowed. They were going to talk about this now. "Hanabusa," he called sternly.

Aidou stopped and turned slowly. He knew that voice and that penetrating expression in Zero's lavender orbs. That look meant that they were going to discuss this no matter how much he wanted not to, so he might as well not resist. He was stubborn as hell, but when Zero gave him that intolerant glower he crumbled.

Zero nodded when Aidou's shoulders sagged in defeat. "What happens now?"

Aidou dragged to him. "But I don't want to talk about it," he whined petulantly.

Zero glowered at his mate and lifted his chin with a finger. "Hanabusa I let you slide last time, but not now. We need to talk about this."

Aidou pouted at Zero, sighing when it had no effect. "But—"

"Usa-chan, we need to talk about this," he said tenderly.

Aidou sighed. "I am the sole male heir to the Aidou name, Zero. If I don't produce any offspring the line will die with me. Otousan knows that and he will do everything to stop that from happening. He will not stop. The attacks will keep coming. Even if we did stay here with Kaname we could never go into town alone, because he will be watching us waiting to attack. This manor, as big as it is will become a prison."

Zero nodded countenance doleful. "Damn. I'm sorry for bringing this on you."

Aidou growled irately at his mate. That was just like his Zero, always blaming himself for things that weren't his fault. Tonight though, he would not hear of it. "Don't you dare try to pin this on yourself." He grasped his hands.

"But it is. If I wasn't of such a low—," Aidou interrupted him.

"Listen to me. I love you. Do you hear me? I love you and I would gladly endure any torture just to be with you." He scrunched his face up, blue eyes hard. "Are you listening, Kiryuu Zero?"

Zero opened his mouth to respond.

Aidou glowered.

Zero thought it better not to say anything else. "Yes sir."

Aidou smiled, demeanor doing an instant about-face. "Great! Now let's go see what Kaname-sama wants."


The couple entered the pureblood's smartly decorated private lounge, giving a respectful bow to both occupants. Kain stood by the window, wineglass in hand gazing out through the glass pane while Kaname sat in one of four chairs facing the coffee table sifting through his PDA.

Kain took the chair next to Kaname.

Zero's heart warmed when the two cousins had another of their silent conversations.

After the two were finally comfortable (a glass of wine for Aidou and brandy for Zero), Kaname spoke. "Do you have a plan as to what to do about the situation?"

Zero shook his head. "Not really, I mean we're just now trying to wrap our heads around everything that's happened."

"Although we do know that otousan will not stop until Zero is d—dead." He smiled at the hunter when he caressed the back of his hand with a thumb.

Kaname strove to control his features. "The situation is indeed precarious. You are the only male heir in the Aidou clan that can keep the line going. He knows that if his only son loves one that cannot give him children his line will end."

Zero nodded and took a sip of brandy. "Yeah, we know."

Kaname settled into the chair and crossed his legs. "Your father wants you to give him an heir, perhaps you should oblige him."

Zero blinked. "What?"

Kain spoke up, respectfully might I add. "Kaname-sama while that is an astute idea. No self-respecting noblewoman would lay with Hanabusa unless it's on their wedding night." Kain knew Aidou. The small vampire loved exclusively and with all he had, asking him to be with another (even if he did not love them) was considered a betrayal to him.

Aidou shook his head. He would never marry another person. If the person was not his Zero then, fuck it. He loved Zero, no one else mattered. "No, no, no, no."

"Try to be reasonable Aidou. If you marry and give your father an heir everything will return to normal."

Aidou shook his head vehemently. "I don't care! I will never marry another!" He looked to Zero for help. "Zero."

Zero bit his lip. One the one hand he wanted Aidou to himself. On the other he knew that if his mate were to marry his father would not disown him. "M-maybe Kaname's right Hana."

Big blue eyes widened and began to water. Was Zero trying to get rid of him? "Please Zero don't think that way." He grabbed Zero's hands, ignoring the other two occupants. He had to convince Zero of the folly of making him bend to his father's will.

Zero held the noble's slightly smaller hands. "Hana, I want you to be safe."

Aidou's brow furrowed, grip tightening. "I don't care about being safe or not. My heart beats for you Zero, no one else." He captured Zero's gaze with his own, holding it relentlessly. "Asking me to marry another just to please my father and 'be safe' is a prison sentence." He swallowed the lump in his throat. "I cannot do it. Please Zero do not ask this of me."

Zero leaned forward. "Hana I know you don't want to, but it would be what's best for you." His heart clenched at the noble's plaintive implore. Aidou would be better off if he married some respectable noblewoman, and he wouldn't have to worry about being disowned or outcast.

Aidou's bottom lip quivered. "NO!" He shouted adamantly, jumping to his feet and dashing out of the room.

The trio of men sat there silently processing what had just transpired. Zero stood calmly and wordlessly exited the room to go in search of his distraught lover.

Kaname shifted his eyes when he felt piercing copper depths. Kain stared at him face stoic, eyes burdening him with accusation. "What is it Kain?"

"Hanabusa loves with all of his strength. Perhaps they should make their own decision without outside persuasion," he stated emotionlessly, making sure to check his voice.

Kaname looked away without a word.


Zero strolled down the corridors of Kuran manor, thoughts racing at light speed. He had no idea about what action to take. He wanted Aidou to be safe, but he didn't want him to be unhappy. He wanted Aidou to himself, but he didn't want him hunted like an animal. Continuing to walk he found his beloved in one of the sunroom, curled up on one of the chaise lounges facing the two storey window.

"Hana."

Aidou shook his head. Did Zero want to get rid of him because he was too much trouble? He curled into a tight ball when Zero sat on the foot of the chair's elongated seat.

"Baby."

Aidou peeked over his forearms. "Do you want to get rid of me because I'm too much trouble?"

What? How could Aidou even think that? "Don't even think like that."

Aidou sat up, grasping hold of Zero's collar, pleading. "Then please don't make me do this."

Zero swallowed. "But it's in your best interest Hana. You'll be safe."

Azure depths narrowed, a frustrated snarl left his lips. He rose from the chair and stalked to the window. Gazing out at the moon bathed garden, he silently stewed. When he regained his composure he turned. "Zero I love you. You are essential to my very existence. How could you condone the idea of me marrying someone just to spawn heirs for my father?" He shouted.

Zero rose slowly. Aidou had to be handled carefully when he was upset; because if Zero wasn't cautious enough the small noble would retreat within himself (that and his personality did a complete turnaround). Their bond demanded he appease his mate, but he ignored it. He would not back down. "We've been over this. I want what is in your best interest."

Aidou growled, the temperature growing several degrees cooler. "Fuck what's in my best interest! I decide that and the same for my safety."

"Hana come on."

Aidou shook his head vehemently. "No," he stated staunchly. He took his mate's hand. "Zero I want to be with you every waking hour. But do you know what will happen if I marry a noblewoman?"

"What?"

"I'll have to spend time with her for appearance's sake and I'll have to sneak behind her back just to snatch a few hours of precious time with you. Then will come the children and I will have a heavier obligation. As time passes on I will have less and less time with you. Separate from each other, we will go on with our lives. We will be pushed further and further apart until what we had is nothing but ashes on the wind." Azure blue eyes shimmered with unshed tears.

"If you want me to do that then kill me now because I don't want to die a slow torturous death inside."

The agony in those usually mirthful sky blue orbs impaled Zero's very nucleus, yanking his heartstrings. Could he really subject Aidou to a lifetime of such dejection?

Aidou dropped his head when it looked like Zero was going to disagree. "Please," he whispered almost inaudibly.

"Then what do you propose we do?"

Aidou brightened only slightly. "We run."

Zero gawked at Aidou briefly. Did he just hear right? "Run?"

Aidou squeezed Zero's hand. "Yes we could go somewhere obscure and maybe change our look."

Zero bit his lip. "You want to run? Hanabusa, do you even know what it's like to be a fugitive? It's not easy."

"I don't care!" He said vexation taking its toll. "I want to be with you." He kissed Zero's knuckles. He didn't care how hard it got he just wanted to be with Zero. He would rather be a fugitive than be torn away from his dearest mate.

Zero chewed his lip. "Luxuries that we have now we won't have on the run. We'll suffer adversities. Life won't be easy or carefree anymore. Are you sure you can handle that?"

Aidou looked deeply into Zero's amethyst eyes. "Zero I would gladly walk a thousand roads paved with thorns and continue to be happy as long as I am at your side."

Zero pulled him into an embrace. What was he doing? Why was he letting all rationality go to make such an obviously impetuous decision? His heart skipped a few beats when Aidou gazed up at him with love swimming unabashedly in those striking blue eyes. Ah yes. He was doing this for love. God he was such a sap.


Aidou stood nervously in the center of the room, their guests watching him and Zero closely. "Um… so we made our decision of what action we're going to take." He stated, fighting the urge to fidget, and smiled gratefully when Zero held his hand.

Zero swallowed. His sensei was not going to react well to their decision. "We decided to run."

A sepulchral silence fell over the room, most occupants staring at them in shock.

Toga, recovering first, erupted. "What! What the hell is wrong with you? Why would you make such a stupid decision?" His single blue eye darted to Aidou. "You," he growled derisively. He stood and stalked towards Aidou.

Kaien's eyes widened. Oh this was not going to end well. He could feel a headache coming on. "Toga please."

"No!" He stopped in front of Aidou glaring down stonily at the small vampire. "This is your fault. You ruined Zero's life. He almost died because of you!" He poked Aidou's chest. "And now you want to run? You're selfish."

Aidou growled at the master Hunter. Sure he was exceptionally wary of the older man but that did not mean that he was afraid of him. He respected the man, but he was unafraid to stand his ground. "I am not selfish."

Toga gave a derisive grin. "Sure you're not; you're just dragging Zero to his death because you want to defy your daddy."

Aidou's eyes blazed with anger. How dare he? How fucking dare he? How could this cantankerous human say that he was running in a childish ploy to make his father angry? It was more than that, and this stupid human could never understand.

Zero stepped between the two, frown set firmly in place, eyes hard. "Sensei, maybe you should go cool off," he stated, voice calmer than he felt.

Toga clicked his tongue and turned, storming towards the exit.

"And Zero won't die because I'll protect him!" He shouted after the fuming Hunter.

"Well that went well," Kain deadpanned from his place leant against the piano in the far side of the room.

Kaien sighed and stood, but sat down when Zero stopped him.

"I'll go." He pecked Aidou's cheek before following his sensei. By the time he made it into the frigid winter air, Toga was sitting on the hood of his truck smoking a cigarette.

A small puff of smoke appeared in the air as a result of his sigh. He walked across the cobbled driveway, and took a seat next to the older man. He shivered and pulled his thick coat close when a strong gust of wind swept past. Tense silence descended upon them, pervading the air.

Toga took a long draw on his cigarette, inhaled tiredly, and blew out a puff of smoke. "You're a fool," he growled.

Even though his sensei tried to hide it, Zero still detected the apprehension in the older male's undertone.

"You're running away like some fugitive just to be with him."

Zero looked up at the cloudy night sky and gave a casual shrug. "I love him."

Toga snorted and flicked the butt of the cigarette onto the driveway before reaching in his coat pocket to pull out the pack. He picked the cancer stick from the pack, put it back in his pocket, and fished out his lighter. Fire flickered when he pressed the button, cupping a hand around the flame so the wind wouldn't extinguish it. He took in a breath of nicotine, sighing slowly. "Love doesn't have shit to do with it." He regarded Zero with a blatantly concerned eye. "Don't you know they will kill you?"

Zero nodded. "Yeah, I know."

"Then why?"

"I told you I love him."

Toga growled in exasperation. "Love is blind not stupid. Zero you've given into his selfish whims. They won't harm him it's you they'll try to kill. Y—"

"I'd appreciate it if you would not speak of Aidou as if he's manipulating the situation for his own gain."

Toga saw and heard the steel in Zero's voice. "You're going to be hunted down like an animal. Don't you get that?"

Zero gazed sternly at his sensei, thinking of a way to reason with the man. "What if the Association came for Cross, threatening to execute him? Would you turn him in, let him flee alone, or go with him?"

Toga fell silent. "That's different."

Zero shook his head. "No, sensei, it's not." He jumped to his feet and stood, striding back into the manor with his hands stuffed in his pockets.


Kaname swallowed the need to implore Zero to stay and stood gracefully. "While I do not agree with your decision I will aid you in any way I can. Just give me one week." He bowed and all but bolted from the room.

Zero sat on the ottoman facing Kaien and Yuki. Vaguely his keen ears picked up tidbits of the serious conversation Aidou and Kain were having on the far right of the room. "Well?"

Yuki, still not quite understanding the vampire world, smiled brightly. "I think it's soooo romantic that you two are fleeing together for the sake of love." She gushed, stars in her eyes.

Kaien ignored his daughter. "Where's Toga?"

"Outside."

The man took the information with a small 'humph'. Serious honey eyes fell upon the young Hunter. "Are you sure about this Zero?"

He nodded. "Yes."

Kaien sighed. "If you want to run you have to change everything." His gaze shifted to Aidou. "Come sit."

Curious, and weary of his conversation with Kain, Aidou obeyed and plopped next to his mate, lacing their fingers together.

"I'll tell you how to stay alive as a fugitive. First rule: Do not leave a paper trail. No cards only cash. Find something travel friendly in which to store your money. Change your names if you have to, nothing flashy. Come up with a believable background story, nothing outlandish." He sent a pointed glance in Aidou's direction.

"What? I can fabricate a believable background story."

"We'll talk about that later," Zero responded, patting his leg.

Aidou pouted at the Hunter, mumbling peevishly under his breath.

"Don't get jobs that will put you in the spotlight, they aren't safe for anonymity. Stay under the radar. Drawing attention to yourselves is a very bad thing."

"You've done this before haven't you?" He queried thoughtlessly, brow furrowed. "Ow!" He whined when Zero elbowed his ribs. "What did I say?"

"Be observant, know your surroundings, make sure you have escape routes, and strategize. Never live anywhere secluded. And perhaps most importantly, while you're in hiding you MUST NEVER have any contact with anyone from your old life."

"No contact?" Yuki and Aidou asked in unison, tears in the female's eyes.

Aidou's brow knitted in slight confusion. He wouldn't get to talk to Akatsuki anymore?

"None," the honey haired man answered sternly. A wide smile floated across his lips. "On the bright side, you are not alone; you have each other to lean on."

Aidou smiled at Zero, clenching his hand, reveling in the unguarded love shining in amethyst depths.


Aidou sighed impatiently. They'd been standing in the stupid line for-ev-er. Why was there only one teller? Didn't they know that people had lives? "What's taking so long, we've been standing here since eternity."

Zero rolled his eyes. "We've only been here for nine minutes."

Aidou frowned over his shoulder, sticking his tongue out.

Instead of making Zero upset the action only made him realize how adorable Aidou looked in his turquoise earflap hat and the fluffy pom-poms adorning the crown and dangles of the cap. Suddenly he was horny. He pinched Aidou's ass, smirking lecherously when he turned to him. "When we get back to Kuran manor…." He quirked an eyebrow suggestively.

Aidou pursed his lips, looking at Zero in mock disbelief. "We could possibly get killed now and you're thinking about having sex when we leave here."

"We'd die happy."

Aidou laughed outright, turning when the teller called out a 'next'. He smiled saccharinely at the plump, perky lady.

"How may I help you?"

"I'm here to withdraw my funds."

"Name?"

"Aidou Hanabusa."

After getting his name, ATM card, and various IDs, she typed in the information. Her countenance changed drastically. "Aidou-san, you will need to speak with Mamoru-sama. Follow me." She looked at Zero. "Sir, Lee-san will be right with you."

Zero waited patiently, glancing over his shoulder to gauge the number of people behind him.

Moments later, a slight young woman with short cropped hair and horn-rim glasses appeared at the desk. "How may I help you?"

"I need to withdraw all funds from my account."

"Name?"

"Kiryuu Zero."

She nodded. "I'll need two forms of identification," she droned professionally.

Zero grumbled inwardly. His previous bank had not been like this. He handed her his driver's license and social security card.

She typed in the information and stopped, face growing questioning. "Could you spell that for me sir?"

"K-i-r-y-u-u and Zero as in the number."

She typed in the information again. "You do not have a bank account here sir."

Zero blinked, trying to process the information. "That's not possible. I know I have an account here because I just deposited money into it not even a month ago. Check again." Someone had erased him from the system.

She nodded sympathetically. "I did sir I'm sorry but there is no record of a Kiryuu Zero having an account with this bank."

Zero clenched his jaw to keep a string of colorful words from fleeing his mouth. "Could you check again?"

She shook her head. "I'm sorry sir but there is no record of your account," she said, sternness infusing her squeaky voice.

Zero exhaled deeply. Shit, what was he going to do now? He crossed the large room and sat down on the bench beside the fern. Lord Aidou had done this. Well, it wasn't so bad. He hated being unable to pull his own load, but if Aidou could empty his account they still be in fair standing. His spirits immediately crashed when Aidou walked to him, a cross expression claiming his angelic features. Dammit. "What happened?"

"Otousan froze all of my financial assets. You?"

"Apparently there's no one named Kiryuu Zero with an account here."

"Son of a bitch." Aidou mumbled under his breath.

"Yeah." He smiled when Aidou laced his fingers around his arm, striding towards the revolving door.

"What do we do now?" He yawned, drowsily.

Thinking quickly Zero came up with the only plausible answer. "Sell the house."

Aidou nodded. "But we'll only get a ten thousand dollar difference, since that stupid pipe flooded the basement."

"And you set the stove on fire."

Aidou pouted at his mate, clutching him closer when they strolled through the doors into the frigid winter. "You said we would never speak of that again."

Zero chuckled. "I know. What if we sell all of our possessions? We can get the money off of that."

"That's a good idea." He nuzzled his mate's shoulder. "You're so smart Zero."

Zero used a hand to ruffle Aidou's hair. "You want to stop by Jangle's so you can get pocky don't you."

Aidou gave a toothy, rascally, smile. "It'll make me feel better."

The couple crawled into the car. After explaining to the pureblood what transpired in the bank, Aidou cuddled close to Zero and promptly fell asleep.


Over the next five days the couple prepared for their escape. They sold everything in their house except for their clothes, Zero's Pikachu plush toy, and Aidou's owl clock (which creeped the hell out of Zero). They kept the profits from the house, Aidou having to resist the urge to go shopping with the money. Aidou cut up his credit cards at the behest of Kaien (it had taken a shit load of coaxing on Zero's part) whining dramatically the entire time. Aidou refused to sell his car and entrusted 'Tiffany' to his dearest cousin.


Aidou knocked on the door to Kaname's sleeping quarters.

"Come in."

He opened the elaborately decorated door and peeked in. "Kaname-sama forgive me for disturbing you in your chambers. But, may I speak with you?"

The pureblood donned a robe and motioned for him to enter.

Aidou strode into the spacious room, shut the door, and gave a curt bow to his leader.

Kaname relaxed in his large comfortable red chair. "What is it?"

Aidou decided to remain standing and swallowed. "Please do not be wrathful against me for what I am about to say but I only say this because of my love for you."

Kaname regarded him with expressionless eyes.

Aidou took this as permission to keep speaking. "I know how you feel about Zero."

Kaname nodded. "Of course you do, we had that conversation six years ago."

Aidou nodded, maintaining a respectful tone. "And you know I love Zero more than words can express." He continued when the pureblood maintained his impassive gaze. "This may be the last time I see you Kaname-sama. So may I speak frankly?"

Kaname nodded graciously. "You may."

"I know that when a pureblood loves, he or she loves no other, his heart is forever his chosen mate's. So I implore you Kaname-sama," he bravely took the pureblood's hands, "as both your loyal subordinate and dear friend to please, please, do not live out your days in a self-imposed loneliness. Allow your heart to roam free to find someone else to fill it."

Kaname's gaze remained emotionless as Aidou spoke. "Are you finished?"

Aidou straightened, dejection crossing his features. "Yes, good day Kaname-sama." He bowed and exited the room.


Aidou zipped his suitcase which was full of (what else) pocky, repeating everything they'd packed to make sure nothing was forgotten.

Zero lounged on the bed. "Do you really need a suitcase full of pocky?"

Aidou eyed him as if he just asked the world's stupidest question. "Yes, I need it. What if we get to China and they have no pocky, what then?" He stepped over a suitcase, hopping on the bed.

"Go without it," he stated causally.

Aidou gasped in terror. "You blaspheme against the pocky gods! Take that back or I shall smite thee!" He proclaimed mischievousness gleaming in his eyes.

Zero clicked his tongue, brushing his fingertips up Aidou's side. "I'm mated to a crazy person."

Aidou growled at him, folding his arms and squaring his shoulders. "At least I can gain pleasure from pocky. I can't say the same for you with that motorcycle. Honestly, who preens their motorcycle first thing at dusk?"

Zero grinned playfully. "At least my motorcycle takes me places, all your pocky does for you is give you a sugar rush."

Aidou rolled his azure eyes. "Jackass."

He tutted disapprovingly. "Such a mean word to call your mate."

He pinched Zero and jumped off the bed, ever-racing mind finding something else to latch onto. He flitted from suitcase to suitcase. "Are you really going to grow your hair out? Did you pack the toiletries? You didn't throw away my owl clock did you?""

Zero clasped his hands behind his head. "Yes I am and yes I did. And as much as it pains me no I didn't." He hated packing, which was why Aidou had to stay on him. He ogled Aidou's ass when he bent over. "Nice ass."

Aidou blushed slightly. "Thank you and yours is pretty hot too." He regarded Zero, perceiving the lust in his eyes. "You want to have sex don't you?"

Zero nodded, sitting up to grasp his wrist and pull him onto the bed. "You know me so well."

Aidou squirmed atop his mate. "We have to get a good night's rest." Saying 'good night's rest' didn't even sound right coming out of his mouth. They had to leave in the afternoon though, to make sure to avoid his father's agents.

Zero licked his mouth. "And we will, right after I finish fucking you." He grasped Aidou's slim hips, grinding his arousal into his crotch.

Aidou mewled, sighing when Zero flipped him to his back. "But Zero." He groaned when Zero bit his ear.

"You shouldn't be so irresistible Hana-chan." He breathed, sliding a hand beneath the smaller vampire's underwear to grasp his hardening flesh.

Aidou sighed. "Fucking asshole."

Zero chuckled.


Zero awakened, cleaning himself up before getting dressed. He glanced back at his sleeping mate (smiling warmly) and departed the room. He needed to find Kaname and thank him for his hospitality and willingness to help. He found the pureblood sitting alone, laptop on his thighs, typing furiously. Zero saw him stop when he sensed him.

"Yes Zero?"

Zero sat down opposite the pureblood. "Can we talk?"

Kaname gave him his undivided attention.

Zero took in a deep breath. "I want to thank you for everything you've done for us. I mean I know you and Hana are like best friends and you're probably just helping out so much because of him. But despite that, thank you." The next statement was not expected.

"You are mistaken. All the aid I have extended up until this very point has been for you."

Blatant shock etched his features. "Why?" The trapped look on the pureblood's face puzzled him. What did Kaname mean?

"Isn't it obvious?" He asked quietly.

Zero stared at the pureblood, allowing his words to sink in. "What?" Kaname was in love? With him? "I—." He gathered his scattered thoughts. "How come you never said anything?"

Kaname smiled softly. "By the time I realized my feelings your heart already belonged to Hanabusa-san and you were happy." He said, trying to hold on to his impassive veil.

All the times he'd been rude or insulted the pureblood on purpose traipsed through his mind. Damn. He'd been such a jerk to Kaname and the pureblood had only loved him. He'd probably inflicted scars upon the pureblood's heart. "I'm sorry."

Kaname looked up from his hands. "For what?"

Zero shifted uneasily. "For being a jerk to you over the past years."

Kaname smiled appreciatively before returning his attention to his laptop. "You should go get some rest."

Zero nodded and stood, reeling from Kaname's confession. He ascended the staircase, striding down the hall, and stopped at his and Aidou's room, opening the door. He entered the room, crossing to the large bed. Lifting the sheets, he crawled into bed, snuggling into Aidou who still smelled like sex. A smile crossed his face when Aidou rolled over and nuzzled his jaw, wrapping an arm around him. "I love you," he whispered and pressed a kiss to his love's forehead.


The early morning hours of the next day were spent with their closest friends and family (Yuki, Kaien, Toga, Akatsuki, Takuma, and Kaname).

Zero packed their bags into the trunk of the town car. He tied the leather belt around the waist of his trench coat, eyes sparkling when Aidou looped a blue scarf around his neck. Zero adjusted the ear muffs on Aidou's ears. Both looked at the pureblood when he handed them individual tin boxes.

"There are passports for twenty-five countries in each of them. So it won't be hassle with getting into most countries."

Aidou bowed. "Thank you Kaname-sama. And goodbye Kaname-sama."

Kaname smiled fondly at the slender blonde. "You may hug me if you wish."

Aidou's eyes brightened. So Kaname-sama didn't hate him. Yay! He hugged the pureblood, sighing softly.

"Goodbye Kaname." Zero stated, unlatching Aidou from the pureblood.

Yuki wrapped her arms around Zero, hugging him tightly, streams of tears flowing down her cheeks. "P-p-please be careful," she sobbed. She released him and embraced Aidou, squeezing him.

Kaien dried his tears, squeezing the two vampires. "Remember what I told you two."

Aidou stopped at Toga, offering his hand, and flinched inwardly when the man glowered sternly at him.

"Take care of Zero. Make sure he doesn't lose himself."

Aidou nodded. "I will."

"And um…" He glanced at Kaien (who shot him a hard glare). "You didn't deserve my reaction."

Aidou shrugged. "No, but I understand."

Toga smirked. "You've matured quite a bit Goldilocks."

Aidou frowned at the older man. "Thank you, but I have a name you know."

After the bracing hugs, copious amount of tears, and well wishes were given it was time to depart. Zero placed the black knit hat on his head, heart tearing when he looked at the tender interaction between Aidou and Kain. Aidou squeezed his cousin, nearly dwarfed in the well over six feet tall vampire's arms. Kain's words came to mind: 'don't fuck up and get my cousin killed'. "Hana, love it's time to go."

Aidou sniffled, getting a last whiff of his cousin's natural odor before wrenching himself from the embrace. "What will I do without you Akatsuki?"

"You have Zero and you know he'll take care of you." He ruffled Aidou's hair, pulling his head close until their foreheads touched. "Don't be a baka and get killed and take care of Zero."

Aidou nodded, putting on a brave face when he really wanted bawl like a baby. His only regret was that he could not see his sisters before his departure. He looked back when an arm wrapped around him. He leaned into Zero, drawing strength from their link.

Zero walked to his side of the car and climbed in, closing his door in synchronization with his mate. He drew Aidou close, trying to comfort him. They were leaving family, friends, and everything they knew. The path ahead was unfamiliar territory. Could he deal with this? Would he be able to handle such a large life change? He looked at Aidou when a warm hand enfolded his. The expression of pure love and faith in those gorgeous eyes strengthened him. He drew Aidou into his arms. He was confident that together they would find strength and determination to weather the storm on the horizon.


Yosh! Finally I finished this chapter *wipes sweat from brow and sneaks carrot from plot bunny*. Sorry that this one was so long, but I kept revising it until it felt right. If any of the characters are OOC my bad (^_^;). I hope you all enjoy this chapter and if you do please R&R.

For all of those that have reviewed ARIGATOU! Your reviews inspire me to write when I'm feeling lazy so keep them coming and I promise to finish this story. We still have quite a few chapters to go before this story is over.

Preview:

"I'm sorry honey."

Zero frowned at the smaller vampire. "No, sorry doesn't cut it this time." He stood and strode to the blonde, looming over him. "If you want me to believe you then you need to suck up any grievances at your job and move on, take some initiative, and stop whining! Maybe then I'll take your apologies seriously," he growled harshly.

Aidou worked his lip. He was whining? His bottom lip trembled and he glared at the other male. "Fuck you Zero!" He darted past Zero and down the hall, slamming the door to their bedroom.

Next Chapter: Alone Together

Adios ^_^