Chapter 26: The New Year Brings A Storm

Chapter Warning: This chapter contains sexual content. It is not explicit or very graphic. But it is still there. You have been warned!

x x x

Review Response (this is only for anonymously posted reviews):

AkiraDaWolf: First off, thank you. Over 1,000 reviews is pretty cool! 8D I also thank you for thinking it was an excellent chapter. About the "rushed" lemon—I'm sorry that it seemed rush. Yes, those scenes are a little awkward and even more so when I have to edit and cut out parts that might be too explicit for this site. So... that might be partially why as well. I will work on it though.

LoveAzure10: Hey! Don't worry! I received your review on LJ. I just haven't responded to it... because I'm lazy. Sorry! D: Lol. You didn't ramble. Long reviews are AWESOME!~ I love reading them! Of course... I don't always reply to them... so maybe that's why people think I don't like them? IDK. No. I have not heard of 'Kimi no Shiranai Monogatari'. What is it?

x x x

Hibari woke up the next morning with a confused air as he took in the feel of the warm body next to his yet his own shivered with cold. Remembering a split second later that Tsuna liked to climb into bed with him at times he sighed lightly, resisting a yawn, only to have his eyes pop open as he quickly pushed himself up onto his elbow. Taking in the nude body of the man sleeping next to him it wasn't hard to remember how he had gotten that way. They had slept together.

There was a part of him that found he was a little nervous about that fact but stronger than that... was a feeling of happiness. And content. There was a bit of smugness too, as childish as that was. He had gotten what he had been wanting for a while now—what the woman and the annoying red head had wanted.

But where were they to go from here? A small frown found his face as his brows furrowed. He wanted to have the brunette's body again but it was more than that. Things that he still needed to finish figuring out. His desire for Tsuna was much more complex that what he had had for Dino and that made him realize he needed to treat this with more care. Face relaxing he took a slow breath before figuring it would be best to maybe talk about it later. For now he would let the other man sleep.

Deciding to take a shower he got up carefully and quietly left the room after grabbing some comfortable clothes. After his shower he went to the living room when he remembered he had never finished cleaning up only to freeze at the coffee table when he saw Hibird flapping around on the floor, chirping miserably.

"Hibird!" Moving quickly to his bird's side he scooped him into his hand. He had left him out here all night! Normally it wouldn't have been that bad since Hibird could take care of himself but he was injured at the moment.

Hibird chirped his name then let him know he was hungry while settling tiredly on his hand. He apologized to his pet lightly as he brought him to the kitchen for some food and water.

xXx

Tsuna woke up shivering lightly as his body protested its lack of warmth. Groaning while patting around blindly to search for his blanket he suddenly stilled when the strong scent that belonged only to Hibari reached his nose and his body ached him in a familiar way when he tried to pull his legs up closer to his body. Eyes fluttering open as he pushed himself up a little he saw that he was in Hibari's room... in his bed. Sitting up slowly his cheeks heated up as he pulled the duvet over his lap and processed what they had done last night.

A small smile lit up his face as he remembered the feel of Hibari's hands on him, his kisses, the feel of him inside. It felt like his whole body flushed at that memory. It was been better than any dream. Did this mean that Hibari was willing to see him as a person? To get to know him better and possibly have a relationship?

That thought made him unbearably happy inside. But as he thought more on it he couldn't help noticing that it could be possible that Hibari had just slept with him because of a 'heat of the moment' sort of thing. That made him frown. Although, he mentally challenged that bad thought, Hibari had been rough and impatient the first time... the second time had been more about feeling it. Would he have done that if it was just to get his pleasure?

His frown increased when he realized he really didn't know the answer to that. He still didn't know Hibari well enough. But that didn't mean he couldn't talk to him about it! He started to smile again. Sure it would be a little embarrassing but they were both adults. They had already done the deed so there was really no point in being shy about it. Plus if he wanted to be with Hibari he knew he'd have to voice his needs and concerns.

Distracted at the sound of the bedroom door opening Tsuna's eyes shot in that direction, eyes widening when he caught sight of Hibari before blushing darkly and quickly looking away in embarrassment. Okay, so maybe not being shy about it was going to be one of those 'easier said than done' things.

Hibari walked into his room to get his phone after he realized it was Christmas morning which meant Dino would probably be sending him a million texts and trying to call him all day until he finally called or responded, wishing the annoying blonde a happy Christmas in return, when he paused in the doorway at the sight of Tsuna awake. He was about to greet him when the brunette stared at him in shock before quickly looking away, face red.

That made Hibari frown. What was with that reaction? Why would he look away—unless... did he regret last night? When he saw Tsuna draw his legs up to his chest he couldn't help but believe that it was true. It was as if he was trying to draw away from him.

Taking a quiet breath Tsuna chanced a shy peek over at Hibari only to freeze at the expression on his face. What was with that look? Why did he suddenly look uncomfortable and... his heart sank as sudden shame bit into him. Did Hibari regret what they had done? Had he imagined everything to be better than it actually was? He closed in on himself, feeling stupid that he thought there could be something between Hibari and himself. Embarrassed that he was stuck on Hibari's bed while the man stared at him with distaste.

Hibari didn't know what to think or how to react to this. Should he be angry? Angry that the other man had allowed him to take his body only to reject him the following morning. Should he feel guilty? After all Tsuna was still quite young and maybe didn't have the sexual experience he had assumed. Should he try to comfort him? Maybe he should—he couldn't do this. He didn't know what to do and it wasn't a good feeling. Turning on his heel he left the room.

Tsuna didn't know what to do. Having Hibari just stare at him really wasn't helping either. He felt sick with humiliation and he couldn't help but feel paranoid that the other saw him as something pathetic. He wanted to flee the room but his body wouldn't heed his command. When Hibari turned and left the room he was flooded with relief only to then be filled with more tension. Why had he left? Was he tired of looking at him now? Was that a silent order to get out of his room?

It wasn't until he heard Hibari leave home that he felt truly unwanted.

xXx

Kusakabe stared at the man at his door with raised brows, truly not expecting this only minutes after he had just gotten home. "Kyou-san?"

Hibari gave him a guarded look before turning away. "Can I come in?"

His brows rose even higher before he nodded, stepping back so his boss could enter. Once inside he led him to the small living room. After they had sat he hesitated before carefully asking, "Is something wrong?"

His boss didn't answer, just looked around the small room with an uncomfortable edge. Frowning thoughtfully he decided to take the focus off of the other man until he was more comfortable with sharing... whatever it was that he had come here for. Trying to think of what else he could focus the attention on he was hit with inspiration when he took in his own wrinkled clothes.

With a casual air he sat back a little before sharing, "I slept with her..."

That caught Hibari's attention. His boss turned to stare at him with a look of disbelief. One that made him laugh.

"Ah, no. That came out wrong... I don't mean that I—that we were intimate. It was... I don't really know. She just asked me to stay with her for a bit and then we kind of fell asleep together." Kusakabe corrected, face turning a little red.

Dark brows furrowed before Hibari's face became blank. "Why are you telling me this?"

"I don't know." He admitted with a small shrug, the two falling into silence for a minute or two. "Uh... how is Tuna? Or is he sleeping the Christmas morn—"

A small frown found his features when he noticed his boss subtly react to the mention of the kid. So that was it. Something must have happened. But what? He had never seen Hibari act like this before. Usually when Tsuna was involved there was anger or frustration when there were problems between them.

"Did something... happen?" He asked slowly, watching Hibari's expression for any warning sign that he was about to explode.

Hibari remained quiet for another few minutes before facing the older man. "Will you talk to him?"

"Talk to him?" He asked with light confusion as he sat forward, resting his elbows on his knees.

"Just—just talk to him." Hibari said a little impatiently before getting to his feet.

"Um... okay then." Kusakabe pulled out his phone only to have it pulled out of his hand.

"No. In person." Hibari added, glaring at him lightly.

Kusakabe was lost. Normally when his boss was acting weird he knew at least had the smallest hint of why. "Okay."

Taking his phone back he quickly left to do as told if only to see if the kid knew what was up with the other man. When he got to Hibari's apartment the first thing that caught his eye was the mess still in the living room and the... discarded clothes? Interest rising he looked for the brunette. The shorter man was easy to find for as soon as he turned the corner to head toward the rooms the kid came out of the bathroom was just a towel around his waist.

Both paused at the sight of the other, Kusakabe's eyes widening as he took in the telltale bite marks that littered the smaller body. Those, pieced together with the clothes and Hibari's actions, finally told him what had probably happened. But why that reaction? Unless... no! He shook his head mentally to dispose of those nasty thoughts. He knew his boss well enough to be one hundred percent sure that the man would never force himself on someone!

Sighing lightly he squatted down slowly, looking up at the kid before delicately asking, "What happened Tuna?"

Tsuna blinked before blushing lightly and looking off to the side. "I-I'd... rather not talk about it..."

Kusakabe took that answer in slowly. He seemed more embarrassed than scared or trying to deny it. Because of that he decided to push a little. "I know those marks... so I can guess what happened. He didn't hurt you did he?"

Tsuna darkened before turning back and surprising Kusakabe by snapping at him angrily. "I said I don't want to talk about!"

With that said he stomped to his room and slammed the door shut, angry tears stinging his eyes. 'I know those marks...'? What the hell was that suppose to mean? That Hibari constantly had people in and out of his bed? That he treated them all the same? Great. Was he just another conquest to him? That made him feel even more stupid.

He was just pulling on pants when he heard the front door open followed a few seconds later by Hibari's voice asking Kusakabe something. Still angry and not wanting to stand back and just let this happen to him he quickly marched out to meet Hibari before yelling at him too. That was until Hibari and Kusakabe both looked at him, Hibari with a blank expression. For reason that angered him more.

He loved him! And Hibari was cruel and looked at him like he was just another one? A small growl escaped as he suddenly lunged, wanting to hurt the dark haired man as much as he was hurting. Hibari looked mildly surprised at the attack, eyebrows rising when Tsuna's attempted swipe missed only because Kusakabe had caught the smaller man around the waist and held him back.

"What the hell?" Kusakabe asked with his own shock, arms tightening around the struggling brunette.

"You can't just do what you did then act like nothing happened!" Tsuna yelled at Hibari, struggling to get free yet also relieved that Kusakabe was holding him back when Hibari's blank expression started to morph into a pissed scowl.

"Excuse me?" Hibari questioned darkly, irritation growing. So he was going to blame him?

"Kabe-san told me how you treat your—" He struggled to think of a good word in a positive light since he now had to include himself in that sad number. "Y-Your c-conquests..."

His face went red which didn't help in making him look threatening he was sure.

"I did not!" Kusakabe quickly said when Hibari gave him an icy glare. "I said that—"

"Did too—" Tsuna scowled out until Kusakabe placed a hand over his mouth.

Kusakabe didn't know what had happened. He really didn't. He had been so sure that once the two had slept together that it would all just kind of... fall together. Now this. They were at each other's throats again? If it wasn't for the fact that he truly believed these two were the type that needed to hear it for themselves then he would tell them to their faces that they cared for each other so that all of this drama between figuring it out really wasn't needed!

Looking at his boss he decided to separate them. Whatever had happened... left his boss feeling vulnerable and the kid feeling wronged. He didn't think it a good idea to let the kid attack a vulnerable Hibari because he was likely to be even more vicious and if Hibari used his anger in that way while the kid was still hurt he might say something that could really hurt his feelings. Taking a deep breath he looked his boss in the eyes while turning the brunette away.

"Kyou-san... I am going to take him home with me for a day or two so you two can calm down and figure things out." He said slowly, happy when he didn't tense at the look he was given. Hibari clearly wasn't happy at the news, his possessive streak coming to the surface. "It's Christmas. It shouldn't be spent like this..."

Reluctantly Hibari gave his approval, turning away and going to the kitchen. Kusakabe sighed softly before releasing the shorter man and pushing him toward his room gently.

"Go finish getting dressed." He said lightly but firmly.

Tsuna quietly did as told, reappearing ten minutes later with a packed bag in his hands as well. They left after he told Hibari that they were going now. When they got to his place he watched as Tsuna took in the one room flat with light interest. It was tidy and decorated in greens and blacks.

Tsuna took everything in, frowning lightly when he noticed the lack of privacy. He kind of just wanted to be by himself at the moment. Searching out the bathroom he set his bag down lightly before turning to the older man. "Do you have to go to the bathroom?"

"No." Kusakabe answered the odd question with a curious blink.

"Okay." Tsuna turned away and went to the bathroom, closing the door and locking it behind him. Looking around the tiny space he took his coat off and folded it before setting it on the floor then sitting on it. Bringing his knees to his chest, wincing when there was a slight discomfort, he crossed his arms over them and rested his chin his sleeve.

Today sucked. And while he told himself he was mad at Hibari he knew deep down that he was mostly mad at himself. For getting into that position. For letting his own lust and desire for the man make such a big decision for him. It was also his fault that he deluded himself into thinking that Hibari would care about him.

So now what were they to do? The deed had been done and they couldn't take it back. They couldn't just let it hang between them either, it was too uncomfortable, but he didn't think he wanted to talk about it. He didn't want to hear Hibari snort at him or mock him for being so foolish.

He sat in the bathroom, thinking about his feelings and wondering what he should do for a little over an hour. He only emerged when the smells of something good reached his nose and made his stomach growl hungrily. He walked out to see Kusakabe setting the table with a carryout lunch.

Their eyes met and Kusakabe smiled gently at him. "Come eat."

He didn't need to be told twice. He went and took a seat, eating everything that Kusakabe gave to him. It was delicious! He was just getting a second serving when the other man sighed after taking a sip of water and looking at him seriously.

"Tsuna... I want to talk to you about earlier." Kusakabe said lightly.

He felt his face start to heat up. "I don't—"

"About what you said to Kyou-san—that you said I had said." Kusakabe cut in with a small frown. "I don't really appreciate being brought into your fights or you twisting what I said. I don't need him after my throat because of something you said in anger."

Tsuna opened his mouth only to pause as he thought about what had been said—on Kusakabe's side and his own. Realizing what he had done he gasped lightly before bowing his head sadly. "I'm sorry..."

Kusakabe eyed him before turning back to his meal. "If you're really sorry... tell me what happened."

Tsuna went red again. "That's p-private."

"Oh please. We're both adults. Both men. We both—" He paused as something suddenly occurred to him. "Y-You were a virgin?"

Choking on his water, Tsuna gasped for breath before squawking in embarrassment. "No!"

"Well then what's the problem? We're guys! We're friends! Aren't we suppose to talk about this stuff?" Kusakabe tried to soothe and make it easier.

Thinking on that Tsuna reasoned that he probably had a point but... "But you're Hibari-san's friend too."

"So?" Kusakabe asked with genuine confusion as he went back to his meal.

"So it's weird!" Tsuna tried to explain uncomfortably while picking at his plate.

"It's not like I am a stranger to Kyou-san's love life... as weird as it is to say." Kusakabe shrugged lightly. Actually it was quite embarrassing the few times he had walked in on his boss and Dino or overheard them but the kid didn't need to know that.

Tsuna, unreasonably jealous of Hibari's previous love life, ground out a low, "Pervert."

Kusakabe flushed lightly but pushed it aside. "Maybe. So you two slept together... not a bad thing. Was it good?"

Tsuna stared at the table with a red face, ears, and neck.

Brows furrowing Kusakabe put his silverware down. "It was... bad?"

The brunette continued to stare at the table but shook his head quickly.

"So it was good?" He questioned again. When Tsuna remained silent he figured that that was his answer. "Okay... well, did he hurt you? I mean I have heard that he can be a little... rough."

Tsuna went beet red while giving an awkward kind of shrug.

Deciding to move on he had to fight back a small blush as he started to ask his next question. "Did you cu—"

"Kabe-san!" Tsuna cried out, looking a little horrified.

"What?" He answered calmly. "If you two slept together and you enjoyed it and got pleasure from it then why all this sudden anger?"

"I don't know!" Tsuna blurted, glaring at him from across the table. "I don't know what went wrong! Apparently Hibari-san regrets it! The look he gave me this morning—well sorry I'm not good enough! Even though last night it seemed—it's not fair! I lo—"

Gasping as his hands flew to his mouth he stared in horror at Kusakabe. He had almost blurted something he didn't want anyone to know. Stumbling over his chair he ran back to the bathroom, locking himself inside once more.

Kusakabe just stared with light surprise before laughing a little. Well. That had been interesting.

Tsuna stayed in the bathroom for a while until Kusakabe lured him out by offering to take him outside. He shyly came out though avoided eye contact. Just like the other day they went out and saw the lights. Kusakabe tried to get him to go ice skating but he didn't want to hurt himself. So they watched the people for a while before going to listen to people singing in The Square.

He started to have fun after a while, Kusakabe taking him out for dinner before they went back to his place and watched a movie. When they became tired they fought over who would take the bed. Kusakabe said that Tsuna could have it while Tsuna refused, saying he couldn't take it. It would be rude. Kusakabe then argued that it would be rude if he didn't give it to Tsuna.

So they did Rock, Paper, Scissors. Kusakabe won so he made Tsuna take the bed. Grumbling the brunette got ready for bed then climbed in, falling asleep soon after. Kusakabe was just getting some blankets so he could make a bed on his couch when a knock at his door caught his attention. Arching a brow he went to answer it, blinking with curiosity when he saw it was Hibari.

Opening the door he greeted him politely. Hibari stepped in, nodding lightly until his eyes fell on Tsuna. In the bed. Kusakabe's bed. His heart clenched.

"Why is he in your bed?" Hibari growled out, eyes narrowing as he turned back to the taller man.

"It's not what you think!" He quickly defended while raising his hands to symbolize his innocence. "Besides that I don't even like him like that. You know I don't do guys."

Hibari stared before seeming to hum his acceptance. "How is he?"

"Better I suppose..." Kusakabe answered lightly, watching with slight amusement and slight hesitation as his boss walked over to where the kid was sleeping and touched his hair with a gentle hand. "Was there something you—"

He didn't get a chance to finish as Tsuna woke up at the touch, saw Hibari and scrambled to get away from him in his confusion of what was going on. Watching the two eye the other warily he shook his head before walking a little closer though making sure to keep his distance at the same time. Hibari could be moody when tired.

"Don't you think you two just had some kind of misunderstanding this morning? Saw something that wasn't really there?" He tried to offer peacefully while looking between them. When two pairs of eyes turned to him he elaborated. "I mean Tuna said that Kyou-san rejected him this morning after—"

"Me?" Hibari cut in with incredulity. "You're the one who looked away the moment I walked into the room!"

"It was embarrassing..." Tsuna muttered, looking away again.

Kusakabe quickly stepped in when he saw his boss' offended expression. "I think you two really just misread each other! Tuna was obviously shy—kinda like a new bride."

"Hey!" Tsuna said with his own offended look now. Kusakabe ignored him.

"Kyou-san probably thought it was an act of avoidance. Tuna then must have looked at a bad time and caught an expression that wasn't meant for him but just took it that way." He spouted off while looking between the two, reading their expressions to see how close he was. He was a little surprised to see that he seemed to have gotten pretty close.

Hibari and Tsuna looked at each other at that new view point, searching for any sign that that was what had happened. Tsuna's blush seemed to validate his side while Hibari's thoughtful frown validated his own.

"Hiba—" Tsuna started to say with a quickening pulse when Kusakabe cut him off, looking a little nervous.

"Well, if that is settled I think you two should still take a day or two apart from each other. Lets yourselves think about your feelings on what had happened and what you want to do from there... so that this doesn't happen again." He reasoned to both of them, relieved he had stepped in before it was too late. He had seen the looked that had passed between them and he really didn't want to see them 'make up'. Especially if it was going to be on his bed.

Tsuna took that advice in before nodding slowly. Maybe that would be for the best. Hibari agreed a few seconds later before allowing himself to be led out. Kusakabe made sure to politely see him out before going back to making his bed on the couch and laying down. He was tired. Those two were quite a headache when they wanted to be.

xxXXxx

The next day and a half passed by quietly. Tsuna had been left alone most of that time with Kusakabe leaving to do one errand or another but he hadn't seemed to be able to come to a firm conclusion. He knew he should talk to Hibari but he didn't know what to say. Part of it was fear that Hibari would reject any future advances. If that was so then he knew it would be hard to be around him. Especially since his feelings were still going strong. A part of him started to wonder if he should tell Hibari how he felt but then figured that could end badly too. If Hibari wasn't able to return his feelings... it would be hard to be around him.

Did this mean that his time with Hibari really should end soon? But he didn't want to leave yet! Not yet. It was so confusing.

When Tsuna finally returned home later that day it was to see Hibari sitting on the couch and reading a book. Their eyes met and an awkward tension suddenly filled the air. Neither knew what to do about it so they did what they did best: avoided each other.

With the end of December in sight Tsuna found that he couldn't wait for Haru's return. At least then he would have someone to talk to. It was still awkward with Hibari which then made it awkward to talk to Kusakabe. He didn't want him questioning him on whether or not he had talked to Hibari or if they had worked their things out.

He found himself smiling when Haru finally called him the evening of the thirtieth, having just arrived home from a wonderful visit with her parents. She told him that she also had a surprise for him and some gifts that she couldn't wait to give before asking if he wanted to go out for New Year's Eve. He didn't know what to say to that. In order to get permission to go he would have to ask Hibari. And to ask Hibari he would have to talk to him. That thought left him feeling nervous.

"Um..." Tsuna struggled until Haru cut over him. She voiced her thoughts of hanging out there. Then decided she would ask Hibari before he could stop her. He stared at his phone while the beeping that sounded Haru's hang up on him came softly. He had just closed it when Haru was calling him back. Answering with a light frown he jumped when she screamed they could.

So it was planned. They would go for a walk the following afternoon where she would give him his surprise and gifts and then she would come over later at night where they, along with Kusakabe and Hibari, would welcome the New Year together.

He went to bed that night with many thoughts clogging his mind. The New Year. It was so close now. Decisions needed to be made.

xxXXxx

The next morning Hibari had left early to make sure that any trouble makers that tried to disturb the peace during the festivities would be put in their place. Tsuna was left to look after Hibird, who seemed to be recovering nicely. Tsuna enjoyed Hibird singing songs to him as he waited for noon to roll around. When the time did come he bundled himself up before wrapping Hibird warmly in his scarf so that the fluffy body rested against his neck.

He met Haru in The Square, dodging her hug and explaining Hibird's position when she pouted. She nodded her understanding before quickly telling him the highlights of her trip home as they walked around. Finding a place to sit after she had finished she handed over her gifts and surprise. The gifts were small trinkets from his hometown that made him smile.

The surprise shocked him so much that he didn't know how to respond. Many emotions battled to be dominant but none seemed to reign supreme. There were pictures. Of his mom. Some of Lambo, I-Pin, and Fuuta too. They must have went home to Japan during their school break. He wanted to cry at the sight of them. He wanted to be mad at Haru for showing him this. He wanted to laugh with happiness that everyone seemed to be doing fine. His mom looked a little tired but happy.

"Tsuna-san?" Haru called softly, worried brown eyes meeting his. "Is this okay? Was Haru insensitive?"

Looking back at the pictures he sighed lightly. "It's... it's fine. H-How? How did you—"

"Haru remembered Tsuna-san telling her about his old house. So Haru stopped by while home and saw them outside. They were kind and looked like they were having fun so Haru asked to take pictures." She explained with a small smile. "If Tsuna-san... saw his family was okay then maybe Tsuna-san could be a little happier too."

He looked back at the pictures. He really did appreciate this but... "Thank you Haru. Really. But I cannot accept this."

Handing the pictures back he quickly got to his feet, wanting to be alone now.

"I have to get going. I will see you later though, okay?" He said lightly, not waiting for an answer before hurrying home.

When he got home he took a nap in an effort to try to escape his sudden spiraling thoughts and feelings. But that only gave him nightmares. He woke up a few times, whimpering and looking wildly around as the images from his dream slowly faded from his mind. The last time this happened he awoke to Hibari pulling him into his arms and hugging him tightly.

The soft scent of the other man instantly calmed him and he found himself hugging him back. He soon fell back asleep, comforted by Hibari's warmth.

xXx

Tsuna was startled awake later on after his latest dream got too intense. After he had gotten his bearings he was a little surprised to find that he was still in his room and Hibari was still with him. They were laid out on his bed, Hibari sleeping. He blushed when he noticed that he was laying on top of the dark haired man, his upper half on Hibari's stomach while his lower half was settled between the taller man's legs. It was made worse when he recalled that his last dream had not been a nightmare but something more... erotic. Something his body had naturally responded to. And now he was laying on Hibari like this.

The most embarrassing part came when he had the sudden desire to move his hips. An urge that was really hard to fight with Hibari's body so warm and his scent invading his nose. Needing to get away he tried to carefully get up only to have Hibari catch him and pull him close. His face burned brightly as his aroused body was pressed tightly to the taller man's.

Hibari's eyes opened slowly when he felt the smaller body shifting over his. Annoyed that he had been woken up he hugged the body closer in an attempt to still it. That led to an interesting discovery. He could feel the body on his heat up while soft breathing quickened slightly. Instantly curious as to the reason he loosened his grip so he could push the brunette back to see his face. That had been a mistake.

The moment Tsuna was able to move he scrambled away and fled the room, locking himself in the bathroom. Hibari groaned in frustration as he sat up. He could still feel the other's heat as if he was still draped over him. They needed to talk. They needed to come to some kind of agreement where he could once again have the other body writhing under him again. Running a hand through his hair he was just standing up when he heard someone knocking at the door.

Brows furrowing he checked the time and sighed. It was them. Quickly moving to answer the door he pulled it open a few seconds later, Haru and Kusakabe smiling as they entered with some shopping bags.

"Hello!" Haru greeted brightly while looking around for Tsuna.

"Kyou-san." Kusakabe greeted too before following Haru to the kitchen so they could put their bags down.

Hibari followed after closing the door. "What is all of that?"

"Drinks!" Haru answered with a large smile. "And some other things—ah!"

Kusakabe and Hibari blinked as Haru pulled out a party hat that had 'HAPPY NEW YEARS' on it and plopped it on Kusakabe's head.

"Haru also got party hats, masquerade masks, music, and party favors. A fun way to bring in the new year!" She added while seeming proud of herself. She was just about to ask what music she should put in when Tsuna caught her attention. Beaming at him she ran over and shoved a hat on his head as well.

Tsuna blinked, frowning lightly and pulling the hat off to look at it before putting it back on his head.

"Snacks too!" She added as if she had just remembered, going back to the bag. She pulled them out and set them on the counter before grabbing a party blower and put it to her mouth. "Lets party!"

Kusakabe laughed as he and Haru got right down to it. Hibari seemed more content to watch and Tsuna was a little reluctant at first, the pictures still on his mind until Kusakabe pressed a glass of some alcoholic beverage into his hand. He was nervous at first but when Hibari didn't stop him he finally let go and joined his friends. They danced to music, drank, danced more, played some drinking games, danced, and played some party games. By the time they got to the party games they all felt a little buzzed with seemed to make charades more funny than actually productive. So they tried something easier. Haru introduced a game where they had to take a card and pass it around by the mouth. Whoever dropped it lost and had to drink the number of shots it took before the pass was broken.

Haru was the first person to lose when she couldn't stop giggling at how funny Tsuna and Kusakabe had looked when awkwardly passing the card between them. Lucky for her she only had to take two shots of some fruity drink. When they started up again she lost right away since she playfully let the card fall from her lips as she moved to pass it on to Tsuna so they kissed instead.

When it turned eleven they put on the masquerade masks. Even Hibari participated, wearing a gold and black one. Tsuna had a orange and gold, Haru had a purple and gold, and Kusakabe had a red and gold mask. With midnight closing in they just danced silly to the music. The party almost ended early when around half past eleven Hibari went to get himself another drink. As he came back to the living room he was pissed to see Haru and Tsuna kissing eagerly with Kusakabe no where in sight.

Tsuna didn't know how it had happened. Kusakabe had gone off to the bathroom, stumbling a little which made him and Haru laugh. Haru seemed to have laughed too hard because she ended up falling into him. The next thing he knew she was kissing him. And it didn't feel bad—it actually felt pretty nice. Her lips were soft and tasted like cherry. They were just starting to deepen their kiss when he was suddenly yanked back harshly. He would have probably fallen down if his arm hadn't been held in such a tight grip.

"Keep your hands off of him." Hibari hissed dangerously at Haru which made her stumble back in slight alarm. Confident he had made his point he led Tsuna by the arm to the kitchen, shoving him against a counter and pinning him there with his body as his hands pushed their masks out of the way. "You are mine!"

Before Tsuna could respond or try to explain Hibari's possessive mouth was on his, claiming him before he could even try to fight back. He started to tingle as his legs were pushed apart, Hibari's thigh sliding between them. His heart raced excitedly. Hibari was kissing him! Dominating him in the way that was starting to become familiar. Did this mean their awkwardness was over? Hibari was just starting to bite his way down to his throat, making him whimper with want, when a startled gasp made them pull part.

They both turned to see Haru standing in the entry of the kitchen with two empty champagne glasses in her hand, staring wide eyed at them.

"S-Sorry?" Haru squeaked before spinning around and going back to the living room with red cheeks.

Embarrassed, Tsuna squirmed free of Hibari's hold and went back to the living room after sliding his mask back on.

Counting slow breaths Hibari composed himself before following, sitting as far away from the others as he could with only Hibird at his side. He watched as Kusakabe teased Tsuna playfully. When there was only five minutes left until midnight Haru handed out the party crackers and blowers.

With two minutes to go Kusakabe and Hibari listened to Haru and Tsuna talk about some of the things they had done the previous years. They were laughing when there was thirty seconds left. Their eyes were glued to the clock with twenty seconds left. With only ten Haru turned her attention back to Tsuna, looking at him thoughtfully. With three seconds they readied their items.

At the strike of midnight they yelled out 'Happy New Years!' and pulled a cracker while Haru blew a party blower a couple of times. With bright eyes she turned to Tsuna and smiled. She knew who she wanted to share her New Year's kiss with. Before she could make it happen, however, she found Tsuna shoved away from her and toward Hibari as her lips were captured by Kusakabe.

Blinking with surprise Tsuna watched as Kusakabe pushed him before kissing Haru. He was thankful when he stumbled into Hibari since it meant he was saved from falling to the wooden floor but he couldn't believe Kusakabe had pushed him! As he was steadied by the taller man that had caught him he watched Haru jerk away from Kusakabe with surprise, face going a cute pink.

Kusakabe just grinned apologetically at her. "You're too pretty to waste a kiss on Tuna."

Haru went a darker pink at that comment while Tsuna frowned, wondering if he should be offended or not.

Kusakabe just winked at him when he noticed his frown before looking around. "Well I guess that means the party is now over. Let's clean up!"

They all picked up different areas then helped Haru bag the extras. Kusakabe politely helped her into her coat as they got ready to leave. Haru was just about to press a surprise kiss on Tsuna when Hibari appeared out of nowhere, catching Tsuna's face in his hand and pulling him back. Haru gave Hibari an annoyed look before calling good night and leaving with Kusakabe.

Tsuna pushed Hibari's hand away, glaring at him for the rough treatment before locking the door. Hibari was just about to go to his room to get ready for bed when Tsuna caught his attention by going to the balcony.

"What are you doing?" He asked as he watched the brunette open the door a little.

"I am going to stay up until the sunrise." Tsuna answered while his attention remained watching outside. A little ways out he could see fireworks. They were pretty.

Hibari arched a brow. "Why?"

"Because I want to." Was the short reply.

Rolling his eyes, Hibari pressed for more. "Is there a reason?"

"Because I want to see the first sunrise of the new year." Tsuna answered, shrugging lightly. "And then... I'll make a wish."

Hibari snorted lightly. "That's stupid."

He watched with light surprise as the other man tensed at those words before bowing his head lightly only to turn around a second later and glare at him, eyes dark with tears. "It probably is stupid but it's something my family and I did together. One of the few things we all did together! So I am not going to just stop because—b-because... we're not together anymore."

With that Tsuna stomped out onto the balcony, slamming the door closed behind him. Hibird called after him, flapping his wings as if trying to fly over but he wasn't quite able to fly yet so he just kind of fluttered around hopelessly.

Sighing and closing his eyes he couldn't help feeling... regret at his words. Grabbing Hibird before he hurt himself again he set him on the couch before going out onto the balcony, touching wild hair softly. "I shouldn't have said that..."

Sad brown eyes met his before he found himself embracing the shorter man. A warm face nuzzled into his neck as citrus scented hair tickled his nose. They hugged for a few seconds before he pulled back, brushing wayward strands from a pale face.

"Come inside. The sun won't come for a while yet and it's cold." He said softly, his hands constantly in contact with some part of the other body.

Tsuna nodded and followed him inside. He made coffee while Tsuna cuddled with Hibird on the couch. Even though they drank coffee the brunette only lasted an hour before falling asleep. Rolling his eyes he covered the sleeping man with a warm blanket then made sure Hibird was in a safe position. He would wake them up a little later.

xXx

Plucking Hibird safely from his sleeping spot Hibari shook Tsuna awake.

"Whatsit..." Tsuna mumbled, opening his eyes slowly.

"The sun will come up soon." Hibari answered, stepping back when Tsuna jumped up at those words.

"Ah!" Climbing off of the couch and hurrying to the balcony he tripped over the blanket a few times before finally making it out into the chilly air where he shivered before full out trembling from the cold.

Hibari stared at the silly man before going to the kitchen and getting a chair. Dragging it behind him he went to the balcony, grabbing the blanket along the way, and opened the door. Stepping out onto the balcony he set the chair down before wrapping the blanket around his shoulders. Once that was done he grabbed the brunette by the waist and sat on the chair, pulling the shorter man down onto his lap, before wrapping the blanket the rest of the way around so they were both covered.

"Hibari-san?" Tsuna asked lightly, a little tense.

"Just watch the sunrise." Hibari muttered, resting his chin on a warm shoulder.

Tsuna relaxed slowly, leaning back into the warm body. Ten minutes later he smiled as the sun started peeking over the horizon. It was so pretty. Once it was nearly fully in the sky he closed his eyes and made his wish. The wellness of his family and to find where he belonged were the two that he wanted most.

Opening his eyes when he felt Hibari's breath tickling his neck he turned his head a little to look at the dark haired man. "Did you make a wish?"

Hibari didn't answer but did press a soft kiss to his lips. Confused by that gesture but not displeased he pressed an answering kiss back. His light kiss started a frenzy between the two as they fell into a more heated kiss while getting to their feet, Hibari leading him back inside. It was hard to walk and kiss at the same time but whenever they ended up stumbling apart they would rejoin with more vigor.

When they finally managed to stumble their way to Hibari's room the taller man broke of their latest kiss and picked him up off of the floor, carrying him to the bed and dropping him gently before following him down. As Hibari worked at removing his clothing he pressed kisses over the darker skin, his own hands tugging at the other man's clothes. Hibari managed to get him undressed first and without clothing his warm hands were everywhere.

He wanted to continue his task of removing Hibari's clothes but it became harder when the taller man found sensitive spots and teased him, seeming to delight in his gasps and shivers. He wanted to touch Hibari too but it was hard. Especially when he reached for his arousal, teasing him there too. Fleeting touches and slow strokes had him squirming, trying to get more stimulation, until finally he cried out and pleaded for more.

Hibari, enjoying the sound of his voice, gave him what he wanted until he was so close... only to pull away. He pouted and tried to pull Hibari closer to him but the man resisted, pushing him to lay back. He wanted to resist himself until he felt the other fondling his thighs. Before he knew it the older man's hands were in all the right places, one stroking him to distraction why the other prepped him gently.

A few nipping kisses were shared between them as he heard Hibari's belt unbuckle and a zipper open between their heavy breaths. This time he received a light warning nudge before the dark haired man pushed his way inside. Back arching as his body tensed, he forced himself to relax only to then realize he didn't want this.

Pushing at the body above his, he blushed when he felt Hibari's eyes on his face. "W-Wait..."

Though it wasn't easy Hibari backed off, groaning mentally at the loss of the warm heat. He moved to sit next to the smaller man only to have him suddenly push him onto his back before he swung a leg over so he was straddling his hips.

Tsuna kissed the surprised face with a small smile before nibbling on a full bottom lip. When Hibari tried to take control from him he surprised them both with his daring as he bit down hard. In an effort to soothe he moved his hips until he was in the right position to welcome the dark haired man back into his body. Sitting up slowly his breath hitched as the straighter he got the more of the other man he felt inside.

Before he could even get fully seated Hibari was thrusting in the rest of the way, one hand gripping his hip tightly while the other clung to his thigh. Swearing softly in pleasure he tried to still the selfish hips with his hands but Hibari resisted, taking the control that he should have had in this position. Which started a battle between the two.

He had thought that battling with Hibari for control in a kiss left him feeling clumsy and inexperienced? He really didn't know what to think of this. The way Hibari moved under him, against him and the way he seemed to know when to push harder or move slower or when to change angles made him feel like a first timer. Not just in his own movements but with how the other was making him feel.

He was left gasping wildly for air between loud pleasured cries and breathy moans. It was Hibari! It had to be him. Only he could make him feel like this. That thought seemed to make his affection for the man grow. He wanted to tell him. He wanted to confess his feelings so at least Hibari knew. He started to open his mouth but instead of words of love a startled cry escaped as his body tensed before trembling with release.

Through his orgasmic haze he could feel Hibari gripping at his hips roughly before he was held tightly to the body under his as it found its release too. Moving his eyes to take in Hibari's face he gasped lightly at how... beautiful he looked. His hair was stuck to his sweaty brow in a cute way and his relaxed face brought a softness to him that almost felt like it should be forbidden to see. How many others had seen it?

A possessive fire burned in his belly at the thought of the many faceless lovers that the other man could have had. Hibari was his and he wouldn't let anyone else have him anymore. Falling forward so he rested against the firm body he moved his head so he could press light kisses to a soft neck. He wanted to excite Hibari's body once more, to have him take him again but unfortunately his own body protested with tiredness.

It wasn't fair! Of course it probably didn't help that the body he was resting on was warm and the scent soothed him, lulling him into the sleep everything but his jealousy wanted to give in to. He was lulled even more when an arm wrapped around his waist, holding him close, and a hand found his hair where it started to pet through his somewhat tangled mess lightly. He tried to fight it but soon fell asleep anyway.

It took everything in Hibari to resist the urge to roll the brunette onto his back and take him once again, his body still buzzing with excitement at the thoughts of what they had just done, when he felt him falling asleep. Tsuna drove him crazy. It was a heady feeling. He had slept with Dino many, many times but he couldn't recall ever having something like that with him. He wanted to pretend that he didn't know why... but he knew.

It wasn't the feelings he had that surprised him anymore... but his willingness to actually embrace them. At least until doubt started to creep up on him. What if he did actually embrace this? What if he accepted the brunette in a way that he had done for no other person—the closest exceptions being Dino and Kusakabe? Then what? Would they be together then? Would they be equal?

He was sure that if they were to form a relationship it would have to be the kind he had refused Dino. A part of him didn't mind that. For all the things he knew would be expected of him... he'd expect them too. But such a relationship would lose him his control... and that thought was a little less tempting. The way he saw it it was that control that helped him keep the brunette at his side. That was one thing he didn't want to lose.

But he knew he couldn't have both. So he'd have to choose. The pet or the man? It really wasn't easy.

xxXXxx

Tsuna's eyes fluttered open to the sound of Hibird singing only to close them right away when the bright light hit his eyes, giving him a headache. Groaning when he felt his stomach grumbled a little uncomfortably he tried to ease it by rolling onto his back only to wince when certain muscles throbbed lightly. Which reminded him of earlier that morning. Face going red he opened his eyes once more, gaze landing on Hibari where he sat on his bed, leaning against the headboard and reading a book.

Feeling the movement he made Hibari looked over at him with a small frown on his face as he set his book aside. "You're awake."

Tsuna felt his heart sink. Not again. What was with that face? And that tone? They weren't misunderstanding each other again were they? Pushing himself up a little he met Hibari's gaze. "Hibari-san... a-about earlier. I don't... I don't regret—"

"But I do. It shouldn't have happened." Hibari cut him off, looking away so he didn't have to see the expression that followed his words. "You're just a pet. It's disgusting. And wrong. I shouldn't have taken advantage of that."

Tsuna couldn't breathe. Taking in Hibari's words all he heard was that, to the person he loved, he wasn't human. He was disgusting. To be with him was wrong. Anger, sadness, denial, confusion... it was too much. He had to leave. This in mind he slowly climbed out of the bed. He started to walk numbly to the door only to by halted by the person he was trying to escape from.

Annoyed at himself for looking, Hibari tried to ignore the exposed body that filled him with want rather unsuccessfully. That aside he was a little surprised. He had expected a yelling match. Maybe tears. But not... whatever this was. "Where are you going?"

Tsuna thought on his answer before speaking softly. "I am going to shower then call Haru."

Jealousy bit into Hibari. "Why would you call her? The shop is closed today."

"Temple visit." Tsuna answered shortly, continuing on his way out only to have his arm jerked so he forced to face the taller man.

"And you're calling her because?" Hibari hissed, growing annoyed with the brunette's sudden distance.

Starting to get annoyed that Hibari wouldn't leave him alone to his misery he bit out his reply. "Because she's my friend. She also happens to be Japanese. It makes sense that we'd do Hatsumōde together."

"I'll go with you!" Hibari ground out starting to feel that he really had made the right choice. As a pet he could make the shorter man do as he wanted. If they were together it would have... it didn't matter. They weren't.

"But—" Tsuna started to protest. He wanted to go with Haru so he could ask her to help him find a place to stay until he could get a little more money to leave Italy. He couldn't do that with Hibari around.

"I'll go with you!" Hibari snapped before storming past him to go to the kitchen.

Tsuna just stared blankly before sighing in agitation. What was Hibari's problem? It's not like he just had his heart crushed! If it wasn't for the fact that he didn't want to spend all morning fighting about it he would have probably flat out refused. Figuring that if he just gave in Hibari would give him peace and then when they got to the temple he would ask for space and call Haru then.

They left an hour later, after an awkward breakfast, taking a somewhat long car ride to a village in Tuscany that had a Buddhist temple. Both were quiet and remained in their own little corners of the car. Hibird noticed this and chirped out soothing sounds until Hibari glared at him lightly.

When they arrived they were a little surprised to see that there were actually quite a few people there already but it was also a relief that it wasn't as crowded as it could be. Tsuna's relief was short lived, however, as he climbed out of the car. The moment he embraced the chilly air a sudden... feeling came over him. That was the only way he could describe it. It made him shiver lightly.

They walked around, looking at the temple for a few minutes until Tsuna asked if he could be alone for a moment. Hibari reluctantly allowed it so he walked off to look for a quiet place in which to be alone for a moment.

xXx

Yamamoto was awoken rudely to a hard floor when he was suddenly kicked out of his bed—literally.

"Hey asshole. Wake up!" Gokudera's voice sounded from his left, impatient irritation greeting him.

"Ugh... Gokudera. What are you doing here?" The dark haired man asked as he sat up slowly, running a hand through his hair.

"Waking you up obviously. Now lets go!" The bomber answered roughly before turning on his heel and marching over to a dresser.

"Go?" He asked with slight confusion before untangling himself and pulling himself back up onto his bed, snuggling back under his blankets. "Go where?"

"Idiot!" Gokudera growled as he dug out some clothes. "Where did we go every year at New Years? To a shrine. With Juudaime. We're doing it this year too! There is a Buddhist temple that will have to do—don't go back to sleep!"

Shoving the clothes on the dresser the silver haired man stomped back over to the bed and yanked the blankets back only to go red a second later, stumbling back.

"Y-You're naked! Why are you naked?" He stuttered, looking away with embarrassment.

"Dreaming about you..." Yamamoto answered with a sleepy smirk until he heard the click of a lighter. Eyes shooting open he rolled quickly off the bed and tackled the shorter man to the floor before he could blow anything up. "I was kidding!"

Gokudera had a fit, cursing at him in rage as he hit and pushed at him to get off. He was past annoyed by the time they finally left. Yamamoto tried to apologize but the bomber would hear none of it. So they rode along in silence, Gokudera falling into memories of previous years and Yamamoto falling into thoughts of whether or not he should confess his feelings now. It was a new year after all and weren't visits to a temple or shrine in the new year suppose to give you good luck?

When they arrived they saw other people were there. Getting out they followed some of the other people, Yamamoto sticking close to Gokudera so that they didn't get separated. After they had made their wishes and sent off their prayers they decided to take a walk and look around since neither had ever been here before.

It was as they were walking around that Yamamoto found a pretty little spot that he thought would be nice. A good spot to confess in. It was quiet and a little secluded. Grabbing Gokudera by the arm he led him over to it with minimal protest. When they stopped he was given a curious look to which he just smiled nervously.

"Gokudera... Hayato. There is something I want to tell you... please listen." He said lightly, trying to keep his nerves at bay. When the bomber just stared at him he closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He could do this. "Gokudera... for a long time now..."

What is the idiot doing? was the first thing that popped into Gokudera's head as he was led to a completely random spot. Now he had to tell him something? Here? In the cold? At a temple? He sighed. The sword idiot always had to do weird things in an annoying way.

Looking off to the side as he wished the swordsman would hurry and get on with it he suddenly froze when something... familiar caught his eye. He couldn't—it couldn't be! But... but—

xXx

Tsuna let his feet lead him for a while, checking his reception as he went in case he lost any bars. It would suck if he lost service or something—not that it was likely but he still thought about it. He was just stopping to call Haru when he felt a tingle on the back of his neck. Shivering he turned to see what could have caused it only to suddenly freeze at the sight he was met with. There... standing about ten feet away...

Caramel eyes met widened jade and two hearts stopped at once.

Juudaime... Gokudera mentally gasped.

G-Gokudera! Tsuna couldn't believe it.

And then Gokudera took a step toward him. While his heart yearned to run to his friend, to embrace him and never let him go... Tsuna instead turned and ran for it.

-Chapter 26 End-

x x x

A/N: Woo! Chapter finished! 8D I would have had it posted last night but I was really tired. So today. And it starts with drama. I love bringing them sooo close, then pulling them apart again. That's what they get for thinking so much? :\

For those wondering at Hibari's reaction... he's not use to someone being shy after being with them I suppose. Dino wasn't like that and Dino is the only person he had experienced (before Tsuna).

Aww! Isn't Kusakabe the best? :3 I must admit... I've really come to love him the more I write him. And I love to write his character the way I do. It's just so... fun!

Why did Hibari let Tsuna drink when he was against it before? Because he was there to supervise. (he probably just wanted in his pants too! XD )

So! They sleep together again (sorry if it seems a little rushed—editing and all). Then fight. Hibari is just being all... blargh. Mama will straighten him out next chapter. :3

I know I cut the chapter off at a bad part. I am evil. I don't apologize for it though! Next chapter shall be fun!

x x x

NEXT CHAPTER: Endings And Beginnings

"I want more than that. I want to be with you. Together. Exclusively."

His eyes widened as his heart jumped into his throat.