In pursuit of Olympic dreams

by LadyZeia

[AU-Canon Divergence/Alternate Timeline] Rin returns to Japan with one goal in mind: Rio. He's got it all planned out—kill it at the Olympic Trials, make the National Team, and—in Rio—show the world. Falling in love, though? That isn't supposed to happen… Olympic Free. Language, adult situations. RinHaru/HaruRin. Epilogue: Follow the sun / Our shining, brilliant future.

36. Freezing, melting - Rio Medley Part 2

Chapter 36: Freezing, melting (and other things water does) / Rio Medley, Part 2

A/N: Mature version on AO3.

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Friday, August 12th, 2016 (continued)

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"Rin, look!"

Rin rubbed the back of his neck as Haru picked up the box that had been left outside their apartment door. I can't believe they actually did it. The box was about 30-by-30cm and half as deep. It was white with a picture on the front partially obscured by an attached note—

JOC Extra. Enjoy! xoxo, Field Hockey Team.

The picture was of a woman sitting in an inflatable person-sized bath…with dolphins in the background. How is this actually a thing?

Rin unlocked the door since Haru was too enamored with his present to look away. "Where do you want to set it up?"

"Can we put it next to the—"

"It's not going next to the bed, Haru." Rin opened their bedroom door, dropping his gear bag inside.

Haru came in, clutching the box. His gaze landed on the glass doors. "Balcony?"

Rin shrugged. "Sure."

It took a bit of doing—inflating the bath with the foot pump and a zillion trips to the sink to fill the tub with water—but their efforts were worth it when Haru slipped into the oblong, blue bath in his square legs and relaxed against the backrest.

"I can almost stretch my legs out all the way." Haru was practically glowing with delight.

Rin sighed. Other people always give you the best presents. "Here." He pulled a zippered flap from the box. "There's a cover." There was even a dolphin on it.

Haru's eyes went wide, sparkling.

Rin chuckled, helping Haru zip the thing into place. It went all the way to his chest, letting him sit up with the cover over his lower half. Your smug, I'm-in-water face is gonna be permanent now.

"I'll have to do something nice for them," Haru said, looking thoughtfully into the distance as a gentle breeze stirred his hair. "Do you think they like saba?"

"Hopefully we can do better than that." Rin cleaned up the packaging to take inside. He paused by the balcony door. "Do you need anything else?"

"Hmm…" Haru's eyes flicked to him askance. "You."

Rin quirked a brow. "That is definitely a single-person bath, Haru."

"If I take the cover off, we'd both fit."

"I'd have to be in your lap."

Haru's gaze turned sly. "That's not a bad thing, Rin."

Rin smiled, leaning down towards his lover's lips. "I'll bring you a towel for later."

"Nn." Haru pouted but accepted the kiss.

Once Haru was situated, Rin went back into their bedroom, trading his tech suit for a clean pair of underwear. He climbed into bed after arranging the curtains; the sun was setting outside. In a couple of hours, it would be dark and they'd need to be prepping for tonight's events. Rin wasn't really tired enough to sleep—the adrenaline from the medley heats was still with him—but he needed to try. He couldn't afford to screw up tonight, especially with the 100m fly and the 50m free almost back-to-back.

Exhaling, Rin rolled over, shoving his face into his pillow as he chased sleep.

-x-

He woke with a start when a cold body slid under the covers with him. "Haru." It was too dark to see Haru's face. "You're like ice."

"I might've…stayed in…too long," Haru said, his teeth chattering.

Idiot. Rin wrapped his arms and legs around his shivering lover, fighting the urge to pull away as the chill raised gooseflesh on his skin. At least Haru had dried off before getting into bed…

Haru squirmed, burrowing underneath him.

I bet your lips are blue. Rin kissed his lover gently on the mouth. He couldn't see color in the dark, but if the temperature of Haru's lips were any indication... "Too bad we can't do this the fast way," Rin murmured, falling against Haru's mouth for another kiss, this one slightly longer.

"Tomorrow night we can," Haru whispered, kissing him back. He wasn't shivering any more.

Tomorrow… Soon, they'd be able to measure the rule in hours instead of days. Saturday night couldn't come soon enough. Rin slipped a hand into Haru's hair, deepening the kiss. I want you so much.

Haru made a soft noise in his throat, which didn't help Rin's tenuous patience, especially as the chill beneath the covers faded. As their mouths melded, Haru's palms slid down Rin's back, waking shivers that were mostly pleasure and only a little from the cold.

Rin broke the kiss with a grunt. He'd adjusted enough to the dark to see the angle of Haru's jaw, the tip of Haru's nose, and the chagrin in blue eyes.

"I guess I'm warm enough," Haru murmured.

"Nn." Rin tucked his face against Haru's throat, his frustration coming out in a muffled growl. "Three more races to go…" he muttered. "…Maybe." Only two were guaranteed for him. It all depended on the hundred meter fly tonight. Rin sighed, the sound weighty.

"You'll do it, Rin. In the fly."

Rin closed his eyes. "Mn."

-x-

Kasai looked pleased as she examined Haru's wrist prior to warm ups. "Looks good, Nanase-kun. How's your pain?"

Haru shrugged, sitting on the treatment table in his sakura jacket and black pants. "Zero? Point-five at the most."

"Excellent! I'll tape it for your warm ups, just to be safe. It should be fine for your event tonight."

"Thanks."

Relieved, Rin let out the breath he'd been holding, though he was pretty sure nothing would stop Haru from getting in the pool. Haru met his gaze, his eyes warm and eager as Kasai grabbed the roll of tape.

Rin coughed to cover the heat rising in his cheeks. It's really hard not to fall in love with you all over again when you look like that.

Soon, they were stripping down to their tech suits and racing for the blocks—

-x-

Friday night's events started with the women's 200m backstroke final. The men's 100m butterfly final was right after, which had Rin in the call room before 10pm. Sugiyama and Damien were ignoring each other, both of them with their game faces on, so the room was quiet. Rin sat by himself with his music and texts from home.

[I heard from Kawamura,] Sousuke wrote, referencing Haru's injury. [You hanging in there?]

[Yeah.]

There was a slight pause. [For what it's worth, I've never seen him so excited about something. It really meant a lot to him, getting to swim the relay with you guys. I know how he feels.] The animated ellipses appeared as Sousuke continued to write. [I know how you feel, too. You got this, Rin. Don't worry.]

Rin drew a deep breath and let it out before replying. [Thanks.]

The medals in the women's backstroke final went to the United States, Hungary, and Canada, with Konishi taking fifth place. A few minutes later, the officials were lining up the men for the fly.

"Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the competitors in the championship final for the men's one hundred meter butterfly."

Rin adjusted his second cap, standing in line between the swimmer from South Africa who had lane two and Damien Andrews. Sugiyama was at the back of the other line, behind the swimmer from Singapore.

"In lane eight, representing the United States…" "In lane one, representing Hungary…" "In lane seven, representing China…" "In lane two, representing South Africa…"

Rin stepped up to the doorway, waiting his turn with his goggles on his forehead.

"In lane six, representing Singapore…"

"In lane three, representing Japan… …Rin Matsuoka."

He walked out in front of the screen bearing his name, waving to a roaring crowd and his teammates. Haru was in the stands even though he was supposed to be in the warm up pool. They were due at the 50m call room as soon as this race was over.

Rin headed to the lane three block, positioning the wedge before sitting down to remove his shoes.

"In lane five, representing Japan… …Noboru Sugiyama."

The cheering was even louder as the Japanese legend walked out. Sugiyama didn't wave. He adjusted the lane five block and started undressing.

There was the slightest lull, as if the crowd was collectively holding its breath before the American Olympic darling appeared—

"In lane four, representing the United States… …Damien Andrews."

Noise poured down from the stands. There were so many cowbells ringing, it sounded like they were imbedded in Rin's skull. Damien walked out in his parka, his smile lighting up the arena as he waved to his fans and admirers. Someone started the USA-USA chanting, which went on for an annoyingly long time during the prep. It was so loud, Rin barely heard the four-pulse.

Pressing his goggles into place, he stepped up to the block in line with his competitors. Damien was on Rin's left, Sugiyama one lane further down. It wasn't ideal, but at least he'd have a good idea of where Sugiyama was if he kept up with Damien.

"Ladies and gentlemen, quiet for the start please."

The cheering faded to a dull roar. The long-whistle sounded; Rin mounted the block, bracing his back foot against the wedge. He wiped his palms on his leg skins before gripping the front of the start block.

The noise ceased for one miraculous moment—

"Take your marks."

Rin tensed, his whole body focused on the water in his lane, his entry point—

The buzzer went off; Rin sprung forward, stretching himself into a tight streamline and slicing into the water. He dolphin-kicked in the cool, silent world beneath the surface, coming up to stroke at fifteen meters—

Holy shit, Damien was going out hot. Rin ramped up into an early sprint to keep up. He knew he was good for it—he knew what his best time felt like, but he also knew that 50.59 wasn't going to be enough. Not against these two.

It was a battle for the full length of the pool just to stay one stroke behind. Rin touched for the open turn, digging in to push off. He got one look underwater—Sugiyama was right up with Damien—the rivals shooting towards the surface.

Fuck. Rin propelled himself forward with strong dolphin-kicks, breaking through to a brutal pace. He caught up by the halfway mark, his head even with Damien's shoulders. Rin turned it up further, slowly closing the gap between them…

They hit the final fifteen meters, Damien surging ahead for the wall. Rin pulled out everything he had left, breathing with each rapid stroke, his whole body on fire as he raced for the finish and slammed his hands against tile.

A wave of water crashed over his head, a sound like thunder boxing his ears as he drew labored breaths. It was so loud, Rin couldn't hear a thing as he turned to his right, one hand gripping the edge of the pool…

What he expected to see was Damien Andrews blinding the crowd with his smile and climbing onto the lane line to celebrate his victory. Worst case, Sugiyama would've been doing it. …But the longtime rivals both looked perplexed as they split their attention between the board and the swimmer from Singapore in lane six who had a fist thrust high in victory.

I wasn't even paying attention to that guy. Damien recovered faster than Sugiyama did, slipping through lane five to congratulate the winner. Sugiyama held onto the wall as he pulled off his cap and goggles, his expression astonishment mixed with annoyance. That changed as Rin caught his eye, Sugiyama's face smoothing. The guy smirked—and it wasn't a particularly kind smirk—before turning away.

Rin finally glanced at the board. The swimmer from Singapore had taken gold at 50.36. Sugiyama and Damien had tied for silver at 50.39. Rin's new personal best time was 50.42—three one-hundredths shy of beating his rival. He stared at the numbers for a long second, bewildered. He'd been so focused on beating Sugiyama, so sure that one of the three of them—between him, Sugiyama, and Damien—would've nabbed gold… Instead—

Rin swam to the side of the pool, climbing out from lane zero. I didn't even make the podium. Reality sank in as he clutched his caps and goggles in one hand, waving absently to the crowds calling his name as he walked behind the blocks and headed for the ID checkpoint. Three one-hundredths of a second separated him from a medal…and a spot in the medley final. Rin didn't give a shit about the medal, but why am I always missing by just that much? Well, 'always' was being a bit dramatic, to be fair…but that's what it felt like. He'd carried a threadlike hope, tucked deep in his heart, going into this race—it was broken now, snapped and limp…just in time for the Mixed Zone and the fifty free. Fuck.

Coach Maekawa was waiting for him as soon as he entered the corridor. She buffered him from the media, not allowing questions. "Need anything?" she asked as he gathered his things from the bin. "Otherwise, I'm taking you straight to the call room after you rinse off."

Rin shook his head. "No. Thanks."

Her face was smooth as she studied him. But she said nothing, for which Rin was grateful.

He made it brief in the locker room; after showering, he dried off and got dressed. His phone buzzed as he was donning his jacket.

The text was from Nitori. [Rin-senpai, that was incredible! A new personal best!]

Rin turned the phone off. He knew the kid was trying to make him feel better, to give him perspective, but he just couldn't take it right now.

Haru was with Coach Maekawa when Rin came out of the locker room. I knew you'd be here, even if we didn't have a race to swim. It was game time—this was the moment to prove that all the things he'd said to Haru last night and this morning about the medley heats were true. –That he was above all of these petty, childish feelings about not getting his way for the final, but the disappointment still stung and he couldn't just turn it off, even though he wanted to.

Haru's expression was stoic and indecipherable. He was reading everything on Rin's face, as usual, though he didn't say a word.

Maekawa sighed. "Let's go." She escorted them to the opposite side of the pool, past the ceremony waiting room where the backstroke medalists were gathering, to the 50m call room.

The women's 800m free was underway as they checked in; Takara was in lane one.

"Yell if you need anything," Maekawa said, staying in the atrium with the officials and staff members from other teams.

Rin followed Haru into the call room. Ethan was already there, chatting with the top seed from France. He waved as they came in. Haru waved back.

"You can go if you want," Rin said, shoving his hands into his pockets and dropping into a chair in the back row. He pulled on his first cap, arranging his goggles over top.

"I'll stay with you," Haru said, taking the seat beside him. He already had his caps on, his goggles perched on his forehead.

Rin looked away as he prepped his second cap. "I don't want to talk about the fly."

"I wasn't going to bring that up."

"Then we're just going to sit here, huh?" He saw Haru shrug from the corner of his eye.

"It's not good for you to be alone right now."

The fuck it's not, Haru. "I'd rather be alone."

"So you can beat yourself up for swimming your hardest?"

"Damnit, that's not what I'm doing." (It kind of is, Matsuoka.) "Haru—" Rin twisted in his chair to glare at his lover, but as soon as their gazes met—as soon as he saw the affection and concern on Haru's face—his anger fizzled like smoke. "Fuck," he whispered, his eyes starting to burn. "Like I want to be fighting before our last race together."

Haru frowned. "You don't know that, Rin."

Rin swallowed hard, crumpling his second cap in his hand. "There's no way they'd put me in over the silver medalist." You heard how loud the fans cheered for him tonight.

Haru said nothing at first, his mouth tight. "With that logic, they should put you in for anchor. You won gold in the free."

By one one-hundredth of a second…

"All I have to do is say that my wrist still hurts."

Cold flooded Rin, worse than his own disappointment. "Don't you dare." The idea that he'd have to swim the medley twice without Haru—without Haru even on the roster—was unbearable. Rin gripped Haru's sleeve. "One team, Haru. I told you. Don't make me do this alone."

For a long moment, Haru studied him.

I'm dead serious. I'd rather this be my last race, than have us not share the medley at all.

Haru drew a breath. "…OK."

Rin chewed his lower lip, trying to discern if Haru was actually relenting or not… "OK?"

Haru nodded. "Yeah. But I'm going to swim the way I want to in the fifty."

Rin couldn't argue. "Me too," he said, heaving a sigh. He doubted he could go breathless right now if his life depended on it.

Takara took seventh place in the 800m free final, her race followed by the medal ceremony for the women's 200m backstroke.

It was 10:40pm when Rin and Haru lined up with the other swimmers.

"Front of the line," Rin muttered. They had the outside lanes.

"Mn." There was warmth in Haru's voice. "It's a first for us."

Rin exhaled. I want to be annoyed with you, but I just can't when you're so happy anytime we get to race together. He turned, reaching for Haru's hand. "Gimme."

Haru smiled with his eyes, pink glowing in his cheeks as Rin smoothed his fingers over the limb, kissing skin reddened from the tape Haru had worn earlier.

"I should've done this yesterday." Rin laced their fingers together. The one time I forgot…

"It's not magic, Rin. But I like when you do it."

Haru. Rin's face heated at the naked affection in Haru's gaze.

A throat cleared lightly beside them, Ethan McInnes stopping by on his way to get in line for lane two. "Best of luck out there, guys." They both shook hands with the Australian team captain. "How's the wrist, Haruka?"

Haru shrugged. "Not quite a hundred percent."

"That's a shame, mate." Ethan looked truly disappointed.

"I'm going to swim free. You should too."

Confusion creased Ethan's brow. "Well, I sure hope so."

"He means…metaphorically," Rin said.

"Right." Ethan chuckled. "See you out there." He left with a wave.

Rin drew an arm around Haru's shoulders. "You're so weird sometimes."

Haru cocked a brow. "You're weirder for loving me."

"Truth." Rin smiled.

"Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the athletes in the championship final of the men's fifty meter freestyle."

Rin reluctantly pulled away, stepping up to the doorway.

"In lane eight, representing Japan… …Rin Matsuoka."

He headed out, waving to the crowds and crossing behind all of the blocks until he got to lane eight.

"In lane one, representing Japan… …Haruka Nanase."

They caught eyes once as they stripped off their warmups, before other swimmers got between them. Rin's heart settled as they looked at each other, the anguish from before fading. He knew he'd be OK.

Once all eight swimmers had finished their prep, the four-pulse sounded. Rin secured his goggles, breathing deliberately as he approached the block. He stepped up at the shrill whistle, setting his feet as the water shimmered in the lane in front of him, the same color as Haru's eyes.

"Take your marks."

At the start, Rin dove into lane eight. He dolphin-kicked hard and came up to rapid pulls of free, sprinting across the pool with one breath taken just past halfway. Seconds later, there was tile beneath his palm and he was raking air into his lungs.

Rin turned for the board as he removed his caps and goggles, knowing he'd been one of the last to finish—if not the last.

Ethan—in lane two next to Haru—had won his first Olympic gold at 21.38. A swimmer from the USA had taken silver, while the reigning gold medalist from France took bronze. Rin's seventh place time was 21.75; Haru had taken eighth at 21.88. 'Dead last' was one way for them to look at it; seventh and eighth in the world was another. Neither mattered to Rin right now.

He swam through lane nine and climbed out, waving briefly to their teammates while the cameras focused in on Ethan.

"Dad!" That had to be Ethan's kids.

Rin smiled, happy for the Australian captain. He waited behind the blocks for Haru.

After grasping Ethan's hand, Haru got out from the other side of the pool, heading over and shaking his head to clear the water from his face and hair.

Their gazes met, Rin questioning his lover with a tilt of his head.

Haru smiled with his eyes, raising his right hand and wiggling his fingers.

Rin exhaled with relief. He reached out—

Haru took his hand.

We can win together and we can lose together too. Rin smiled with the same warmth that was on Haru's face. They headed for their ID checks, letting Ethan have his moment.

As the first two in the Mixed Zone, Rin and Haru had the full attention of the press—

"Mr. Matsuoka, you were quite a bit off your National Record time tonight in the fifty free. What's going on? Did you give everything in the fly?"

Nosy reporters. Rin affected a polite smile, still holding Haru's hand. "It's true I went out really hard in the fly. I gave everything I had tonight. I wish it would've been enough, but that's the way it goes sometimes."

"Mr. Nanase, is your wrist still bothering you? Is that the reason for your performance tonight?"

Haru shook his head. "My wrist is fine. I swam the way I wanted to. That's all."

"Are you saving your wrist for the medley tomorrow night?"

"Our coaches decide the roster." Haru glanced aside at Rin, the look clearly, I'm done with this.

Rin smiled. Me too.

"Thanks." They left the barrier, despite the reporters calling their names.

Beside the warm up pool, Haru sat for another wrist exam and more tape as a precaution. They missed the medal ceremony for the men's 100m fly during warm down (not that Rin minded) along with the awards for the women's 800m free. But they were in the stands in time to watch Ethan get his gold medal and listen to the Australian anthem.

The guy looked so happy. Rin saw real tears when Ethan climbed into the stands during his victory lap, hugging his wife and daughters.

"I'm glad he won," Haru whispered.

"Same."

The evening finished with the semi-finals for the women's fifty free. Sada had lane two in the second heat and qualified in sixth place overall for the final on Saturday.

Coach Fujino gathered everyone in the team area at the end of the night, though Sugiyama was absent as usual. "Excellent work tonight, Olympians. You should all be proud of everything you've done here in Rio. We just have a little more to go. Our last clinic will be tomorrow at five PM, on the first floor of our building in the Village. That's when I'll announce the final roster for the medley relay. Meaning… alternates don't get to be slacking off. Not yet." Fujino smiled. "Well done, everyone. Get some rest tonight."

"One more night until karaoke, ladies," Ozawa said, throwing her arms around Konishi and Takara's shoulders.

"Ugh, I could really use a drink," Takara muttered.

"Me too," Konishi said.

The trio headed off in their red sakura jackets, clutching gear bags and towels.

"Sada-nee, can I have a piggyback ride?"

Sada sighed. "Squeaker, I just swam a hard fifty. Shouldn't you be offering me a ride, instead?"

Momo blinked, looking puzzled. "I could try to lift you…"

"Hey!"

Wrong answer, Momo.

Sada tackled the kid down to the mats with an epic noogie. Momo squirmed, but the way he flushed and grinned, he was clearly enjoying the whole thing.

Mikoshiba stood nearby, scratching his head. "Momotarou…" He frowned with disapproval.

Haru slipped the strap of his gear bag over his head. "Wanna go, Rin?"

Rin smiled. "Yeah."

They were almost to the bus when Haru's phone trilled.

Haru glanced down at the caller, his eyes lighting with surprise. He answered quickly. "Tsuchiya-san?"

Uh-oh. Rin massaged the back of his neck. Are we about to get it for our performance tonight?

"Noon tomorrow? OK." Haru paused. "That's… Oh, across from the Welcome Centre. Hai. Hai. Thank you." Haru ended the call, returning the phone to his pocket.

"Well? Are we in trouble?"

"Huh?" Haru shook his head. "I don't think so. She wants to meet tomorrow. And she said not to make any plans for Sunday, for the other half of our photo shoot."

Rin grimaced faintly, remembering threats of waxing and bronzer… "For the speedos and stuff, huh?"

"It's not until Sunday." Haru's gaze turned sly. "I can help you shave, Rin."

Rin rolled his lips between his teeth, recalling the way Haru looked in that skimpy suit… No rule on Sunday. "Yeah, that works."

Haru smiled, mirth and desire glittering in his eyes.

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Saturday, August 13th, 2016

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Their first stop Saturday morning was the JOC therapy room on the first floor of their tower.

"Bom dia, Nanase-kun!" Kasai waved them into the room from the hallway, the tiny space crammed with treatment tables, kits, and portable equipment. "How's your pain today?"

Haru hopped up onto the table, pushing the sleeve of his sakura jacket up to his elbow. "Zero. I still iced it this morning, but I haven't felt anything since yesterday."

"Ótimo!" Kasai did a thorough exam over the next few minutes. "Everything still feels good," she said, smiling with her pronouncement. "I'll let Coach Fujino know."

"Thanks." Haru slid off the table.

"How about you, Matsuoka-kun? Anything that needs attention?"

"Ah." Rin shook his head. "Nope. Thanks."

"Em português por favor!"

"Obrigado, Kasai-san," they said in chorus, escaping before she could rope them into an impromptu lesson.

After eating breakfast at the dining hall, Rin and Haru took advantage of a partly-sunny day to skip the bus and walk to the east end of the Village. They left via the pedestrian security checkpoint, crossing the Av. Olof Palme and heading northeast to the Grand Mercure Riocentro Hotel.

The L-shaped building had a glass lobby with soaring ceilings, blue and gray seating, and an elegant bar off to the left. Even though the décor was totally different from the hotel in Málaga, Rin couldn't help being reminded of that night, after the photoshoot. Just thinking about the way Haru looked against white sheets by moonlight… Yeah, don't go there, Matsuoka. Rin raked a hand through his hair, banishing the thought. They had at least twelve hours left… More if you medal in the relay and have to do the press conference after. Rin glanced sidelong at his lover. Better sleep during our nap, Haru. We're gonna be up late tonight.

Haru met his gaze askance. He read Rin's face with a flicker of blue eyes, firing back with a sultry look that warmed Rin down to his toes.

This is going to be the longest twelve hours of my life—definitely worse than Barcelona.

"Nanase-kun, Matsuoka-kun."

They turned at the sound of Tsuchiya's voice. She joined them from one of the seating areas, coming over in a crisp black suit with a blue shell beneath her jacket. Her hair was its usual immaculate twist, held in place by a stylus. She carried a leather portfolio with her Blackberry. "Thanks for agreeing to meet on such short notice."

"Our pleasure," Rin said, bowing and shaking her hand in turn. We're happily at your mercy, after all you did for us in Spain.

"Hai," Haru said, bowing his head.

Tsuchiya smiled as if she knew what they were thinking and had no need to correct them. "This way."

She led them up a flight of stairs on the right-hand side of the room, the two-story wall a tile mosaic in blue and white. The second floor overlooked the lobby below beyond a half-wall of glass. They rounded the corner, sunlight streaming in through floor-to-ceiling windows on the south side of the building. Halfway down the hall, Tsuchiya opened a door to a small conference room. "Please, have a seat."

Haru went in first, scanning all of the chairs around the table before he picked one.

Rin rolled his eyes and took the chair next to Haru.

Tsuchiya closed the door, approaching with the portfolio. "I'll cut straight to the chase, Nanase-kun, Matsuoka-kun."

Like usual. Rin smiled to himself.

"My company is interested in making our arrangement official." She sat down and took out two glossy black folders. "We'd like to sign both of you to represent us for the next four years, with the option to renew after Tokyo 2020."

Rin sucked in a breath as she placed the folders on the table and opened them.

"Identical contracts, identical amounts," she said, using the tip of a pen to indicate several items on the page. "In exchange for interviews, photoshoots, commercials, and live appearances, we will make sure you are well taken care of."

Rin stared at the number without blinking. He had to count the zeroes three times to believe it was real. The coaching program at Koutei just became a non-issue, along with basic living expenses. He'd be able to pay his own way, taking the burden off his mom. Holy shit. Rin swallowed hard, his eyes suddenly stinging.

Haru took his hand beneath the table. Rin inhaled slowly to keep himself together, meeting his lover's gaze. Despite looking equally shocked, Haru wore a smile that was more than just warmth and happiness. You know what this means to me. Rin squeezed Haru's hand.

Haru's eyes softened with pleasure. He turned back to their sponsor. "More stuff like Málaga?"

"Precisely." Tsuchiya nodded. "The specifics are called out in the documentation. You'll need to review all of this carefully and we can meet again at your convenience to discuss any terms or changes you'd like to request." She glanced at Rin. "In your case, Matsuoka-kun, you will need parental permission to accept."

I hate not being twenty yet. He couldn't imagine his mom having issues with it, though.

"Nanase-kun, that requirement doesn't apply to you, however I do recommend going over the details with your parents prior to informing me of your decision. Additionally, you have the option of going through an intermediary—a sports agent—if you wish. I suggest you speak with some of your veteran team members or other counsel before deciding. You'll particularly want to pay attention to the language describing breaches of contract, as well as termination criteria."

Rin exhaled. "It's not based on our times, is it? Like last night…"

Tsuchiya looked at him coolly. "What was that, Gold medalist Matsuoka?"

"Uh…"

"There are reasonable performance assurances included, similar to documents you signed when you accepted your invitations to the National Team. As long as you're not doping or engaging in other substance abuse or considerably shirking your responsibilities, you don't have to worry. There are provisions for injuries as well." Tsuchiya smiled. "Though, I do hope you both put additional focus on the fifty free going forward. In time for the Asian Championships in November, for example."

"Ahh." Rin dipped his head in a bow.

Haru did likewise. "Hai."

"Excellent. Response instructions are in the documentation as well. You have two weeks to respond, but advise me prior to the deadline if you need an extension. I know things will be busy for both of you once you return to Japan." She sat back, returning her pen to the leather portfolio. "Any questions for now?"

"No, thank you," Rin said.

"For Sunday…?" Haru asked.

"Instructions will be in your email. Look for a message from Director Kaya. Just show up at the meeting location. She and Haseda-san will take care of you."

I hope there's no karaoke involved... Rin's gaze fell to the number on the page in front of him again. Never mind. I'll sing whole albums in whatever language you want.

"If there's nothing else…" Tsuchiya paused. "Then we're done." She got up, offering her hand across the table. "I'm sure we'll be able to come up with suitable agreements for both of you. I look forward to hearing from you."

"Thank you, Tsuchiya-san." Haru shook her hand first, bowing low after he let go.

Rin followed suit, grasping her hand firmly. "Thank you very much, Tsuchiya-san." You have no idea what this means to me and my family.

"You're both very welcome. You've earned this and I wouldn't be surprised—after this week—if other offers come your way. But this offer is the best; you'll be able to see that for yourselves."

I don't doubt that at all. Rin smiled, imagining how Tsuchiya would dismantle anyone who tried to steal them away.

She saw them out through the lobby, Haru and Rin carrying their identical folders of paperwork.

Rin blinked against bright sunlight as they headed outside. He threw an arm around Haru's shoulders. "Pinch me so I know I'm not dreaming."

"OK." Haru reached behind him.

"Oi!" Rin glared at his lover.

"What?" Haru looked at him innocently. "It's very pinchable, Rin."

Rin exhaled through his nose. "Haru, that really just happened. I can't believe it." He met Haru's gaze, hesitating. "Is it OK?"

Haru smiled. "I don't have to think about this one. If we get to do more days like Málaga…"

Nights, is what you really mean. "I'm not sure it'll always involve a fancy hotel. …And it might mean traveling."

Haru shrugged, reaching for Rin's hand and weaving their fingers together. "I'll read the fine print." His face clouded. "I'm still thinking about Paris. But I want to go more places with you. I do, I just…"

"No rush." Rin kissed his cheek. "It's not Tuesday yet."

Haru's eyes softened, ocean-blue and shimmering. "Rin…"

Rin's gaze fell to Haru's lips…but we're not in the Village. He sighed. "Come on. Let's head back."

-x-

They were almost to their tower when Rin's phone rang. He paused on the edge of the paved walkway, pulling out his phone and snagging Haru's arm at the elbow. There was a water feature just to their right that immediately had Haru's attention.

Rin stared at the screen without blinking, nerves waking in his stomach. He answered the call, clearing his throat. "Coach Fujino?"

Haru stopped pulling, turning to look at him.

"Matsuoka-kun, would you happen to be near the JASF offices?"

"Hai. We're right outside."

"If you could join me for a few minutes. Just you, Matsuoka-kun."

-x-

Rin drew a deep breath before knocking on the conference room door. The last time he and Haru met with Coach Fujino here, they'd received their invitations to the World Cup. This time, however…he had a hunch it wasn't going to be the same kind of good news.

"Come in." Coach Fujino's voice came from inside the room.

Rin opened the door…and his mouth went dry when he saw Coach Fujino accompanied by JOC Executive Board member Saeki and the JASF Director. The three were sitting on one side of the conference table, across from two empty chairs. The JOC and JASF officials both wore formal suits, flanking Coach Fujino who was wearing his usual sakura jacket and warmup pants.

"Please have a seat, Matsuoka-kun," Coach Fujino said, waving him to the empty chairs. "I apologize for the interruption, but this won't take long, as soon as the other party arrives."

"Hai." Rin took the chair on the left, wracking his brain. What the fuck did I do? It couldn't be about his performance in the fifty free last night, he knew he was clean from a doping perspective, and surely borrowing an inflatable bath from JOC supplies wouldn't warrant this level of tribunal. Right…?

The ninety seconds that passed while he waited were the longest of his life—even worse than when Haru's plane was delayed arriving in Málaga. He almost jumped when the knock sounded at the door.

"Come in," Fujino said.

The door opened, Sugiyama entering the room.

This is about the medley. Rin's dread faded, though he didn't allow himself to hope just yet; that tiny thread still lay coiled and broken in his heart.

"Thank you for joining us, Sugiyama-kun. Please have a seat."

Sugiyama was cool as usual as he took the chair next to Rin, barely acknowledging Rin's presence.

Coach Fujino leaned forward, folding his hands atop a closed notebook. "Sugiyama-kun, Matsuoka-kun, we—" he was obviously including the JASF and JOC there "—find ourselves in an interesting quandary deciding the roster for tonight's relay final, given that Nanase-kun is able to swim anchor."

Holy shit. Rin's hope surged to life, reattached and crackling with electricity like a live wire.

"On a strict time basis, Sugiyama-kun has the faster individual times in the fly, along with the National Record. However, the relay splits have always gone to Matsuoka-kun."

They have? Rin didn't know Sugiyama's relay split times; even then, it'd been rare for Rin to swim the fly leg in practice.

"But relays are about more than swimming fast, as both of you know." Coach Fujino faced Sugiyama. "Sugiyama-kun, your attitude Thursday night after your teammate was injured was disappointing."

Sugiyama inhaled. "Coach—"

Fujino held up a hand, stopping him. "It was well within your right to ask us to make a substitution. But your lack of regard for the team's well-being in the face of your own agenda was noteworthy. And this is not the first time we've had this conversation."

Sugiyama's mouth tightened. He remained silent, stewing.

"Matsuoka-kun." Fujino shifted his gaze to Rin. "You joined the National Team with some very specific and personal goals related to the medley relay—which, while not a problem in and of themselves—led you to be distracted and disinterested whenever things didn't go your way."

You noticed. Rin's cheeks heated with shame. It was all true; wishing it wasn't didn't change anything.

"However, I've seen growth in you over these last four months, in your dedication to this team and your teammates, and in your willingness to put the team first, even when it meant personal disappointment. I wouldn't say you've perfected this—"

Yeah, no shit.

"—but you're not in the same place you were at the beginning, either."

Coach. Rin gripped the bracelet on his wrist under the table, just to have something to hold onto. What are you saying?

Coach Fujino sat back, regarding both of them. "We're not here to inform you of our decision. We," he lifted a hand, indicating the JASF and JOC officials, "are still deliberating. The purpose of this meeting is to allow each of you to make any statement you wish regarding why you should be selected for the final. Remember, we're not only putting athletes out there and hoping for a chance at the podium. The medley team we send tonight represents Japan—and Tokyo 2020—in front of the world."

Rin's head spun as he recalled snatches of things Saeki had said in their clinics— You are here because you embody the Olympic spirit. One cannot truly be a champion without conducting one's self honorably. The world will remember you first as the face of the thirty-second Olympiad, while your individual achievements are secondary.

His shoulders fell. Shit. I mean, I know I'm not the asshole I used to be… But to embody those things, one hundred percent of the time? Hell no, I don't come close.

"Sugiyama-kun, you may go first."

Sugiyama's jaw flexed momentarily. "It's true I've been…focused on my rivalry with the American captain. With his impending retirement, yesterday's race was my last chance to beat him. …But it didn't work out." He inhaled before continuing, the light glinting off his close-cropped black hair. "Do what you want, Coach. You're right. I've neglected the team and I haven't abided your counsel or that of the assistant coaches." Sugiyama paused, his expression cooling. "It's…been a long time since Athens."

The guy was way too proud to beg for anything, but he seemed sincere.

"Thank you, Sugiyama-kun." Coach Fujino's attention turned to Rin. "Matsuoka-kun?"

What am I supposed to say? You should give me the relay final because I'm less of an asshole? Rin pressed his lips, glancing at his rival, his childhood hero and idol… I want to swim with Haru. That motive was no less personal than Sugiyama's…and not much different than high school.

It wasn't that long ago that Mikoshiba kicked me off the relay team for being selfish. He'd never forget that night, in the hotel hallway—

You're not even looking at your team.

He hadn't deserved what Haru, Makoto, Nagisa, and especially Rei, did for him after that. I thought I truly understood the value of the team. But I've been whining about the medley relay for months. Some part of me is still that twelve-year-old kid, desperate to swim with Haru, huh?

But Rin was already on the roster with Haru, because of the heats. Tonight's win or loss was his win or loss, too. How am I in any position to ask for more? He thought of all the cheering he'd heard last night for Sugiyama, the Japanese Olympic legend. During Athens, I was cheering just like them…with my dad. Rin drew a deep breath, facing the head of the Japanese swim team. "Coach, the prelim I swam yesterday was the best relay of my life. I'd give anything to swim the final with Haru. …But I think it should go to Sugiyama-senpai."

"Like I want any charity from you, Matsuoka." Sugiyama pinned him with a glare, his eyes flashing with cold fire.

"You're not getting any." Rin glared back. "But I've watched you swim the medley since I was a kid. It'd be weird if you were here but didn't swim this one. And I trust you not to mess it up."

The guy scoffed, his eyes flicked skyward. "Not like Rome, you mean."

"Who said anything about Rome?" Like I'd bring that up.

Sugiyama drew a slow breath through his nose—

"—I suggest the two of you stop there," Coach Fujino said, wincing slightly.

Fuck. Rin bowed his head, his face hot. "Sumimasen."

Saeki cleared her throat. "This went about as well as expected. How do you handle having two spitfires on the team, Fujino-san?"

Fujino's smile was strained. "Not as well as I'd like, obviously."

Way to go, Matsuoka. Airing your dirty laundry in front of the JOC and JASF… Crawling under the table and dying seemed like a great idea.

"Saeki-san, Director…any further questions for these two?"

The JASF Director shook his head. "I think we have enough for our deliberations."

"Agreed," Saeki said.

"Very well. Sugiyama-kun, Matsuoka-kun, you're dismissed."

After a deep bow, Rin followed Sugiyama from the room.

They were near the end of the hallway by a set of locked and darkened offices, when Sugiyama stopped.

"Matsuoka, what the f—" Sugiyama cut himself off, his jaw tight as he glanced away. "Forget it. Look, you're better off finding someone else to be your hero."

"I know." Rin gave a cool shrug. "What can I say? I was an impressionable kid. Athens was a big deal to me."

Sugiyama was silent for a beat. "It was to me, too." His sigh was grating. "If they offer it to you tonight, take it. None of this bullshit in front of the rest of the team. Or I'll make you regret it."

Not sure how you think you could do that, but whatever. "Fair," Rin said.

Sugiyama, with apparent reluctance, held out his hand.

Rin shook on it.

-x-

"I'm proud of you, Rin," Haru said. "For telling him how you really feel." He came in from the balcony with a towel, dressed only in his square legs.

"Tch, Haru." Rin rubbed the back of his neck. "Weren't you listening when I said how much I fucked up in front of the JOC and JASF officials?"

Haru finished drying off, draping the towel around his neck. "It sounded like ninety-percent Sugiyama to me." He slid the glass door closed.

"Nn."

Arms caught Rin around the waist, Haru's damp hands slipping underneath his jacket. "No matter what happens tonight, there's one thing you can definitely count on."

Rin cocked a brow, meeting the tease glittering in Haru's eyes. "And that would be?"

"Sex."

He coughed, trying not to laugh and failing. "Haru, we need to work on your playful banter."

"Mn." Haru frowned, leaning in.

Rin's mirth evaporated as Haru's mouth covered his, the kiss long and lingering, with a tantalizing brush of tongue. He forgot about everything but Haru and breathing when they parted. "Are we starting now?" he asked, winding his arms around his lover's shoulders.

"I need your help for shaving touch up. Might as well do you, too. Just in case."

Rin pressed lips that tasted like Haru. "…We're still talking about shaving, right?"

The look Haru gave him was so hot, the air sizzled. "One last cold shower, Rin?"

"Hell yes," he whispered, capturing Haru's lips for another kiss.

-x-

"It's down to this, Olympians—the final four swimming events." Coach Fujino stood at the head of the clinic room, clipboard in hand. "After tonight, most of you get a few days to relax, recover, and cheer on your teammates in the Open Water Swim."

Mikoshiba and Takara nudged elbows, standing together on the right side of the room. The whole thirty-four member team had gathered in a semi-circle, accompanied by team staff, their assistant coaches, a JASF representative, and Saeki from the JOC.

"First up tonight will be Sada-san in the fifty free final."

"Hai," Sada said.

"The second event is Mikoshiba-kun's fifteen-hundred meter free."

"Ready, Coach!" Mikoshiba folded his arms, grinning.

"As for the medley relays…"

Rin swallowed, his palms clammy. His right hand was laced with Haru's left.

"Swimming the women's relay will be Konishi-san, Otani-san, Ozawa-san, and Sada-san."

The women quietly cheered, the rest of the team clapping.

"Thank you, alternates, for all of your hard work. As for the men…"

Rin steeled himself, holding his breath.

"We've selected Momotarou-kun, Captain Ikehara, Sugiyama-kun, and Nanase-kun."

Rin exhaled slowly with his eyes closed, feeling the disappointment, but setting it aside. Haru gripping his hand made it easier. This is how it should be. The Japanese Olympic legend swimming for the team and his fans—maybe someday that will be me. Rin opened his eyes when he knew he had himself together, freeing his hand to clap along with his teammates.

"Can I ask something, Saeki-san?"

Rin stilled when Sugiyama spoke. The applause faded, all eyes landing on the guy as he straightened from the wall on the left side of the room, slipping his hands into the pockets of his warmup pants.

Saeki, in her black business suit, stepped forward, coming even with Coach Fujino. "Of course, Sugiyama-kun."

Sugiyama's face was cool, though his jaw was rigid like Rin had seen earlier. "Is this the JOC extending me an olive branch because of the publicity? Or an ultimatum, giving me one last chance? Because you can't convince me the clock and good behavior fell to me in your deliberations."

What the fuck are you doing? Rin's heart started to pound. Talking like that to the JOC Executive Board?

The room went dead silent.

Saeki adjusted her wire-rimmed glasses before speaking. "It is the responsibility of the JOC to encourage the manifestation of the Olympic values. At times, it is necessary to reprove and to challenge where they may be lacking. Second chances, where appropriate, are also within our prerogative."

Translation, yes and yes. Rin's mouth went dry. Haru had his hand again, his grasp firm.

"I still have the option?" Sugiyama asked.

"Absolutely," Saeki said.

Sugiyama's eyes were as hard as before, but there was a slight crack in his cold veneer, showing something raw underneath. "I'm not trying to burn bridges or sound ungrateful, Saeki-san. But I know what you want and I can't give it to you. Not tonight, not like him." Derision dripped from the word. Sugiyama could only be talking about Damien Andrews.

"I appreciate your honesty, Sugiyama-kun. Integrity is the most basic virtue required of any athlete." Saeki perched a hand on her hip. "To be clear, we've never asked you to be the gregarious American captain. But your team deserves more than to be ancillary to your rivalry."

"I know. That's why…" The guy exhaled roughly. "Matsuoka."

Rin nearly jumped as Sugiyama's gaze found him.

"Take it. I'm delegating."

Rin forgot how to breathe, his heart thudding in his throat. You're cutting yourself out of a possible medal…

Sugiyama's eyes sharpened, the look clear. Don't go back on our deal.

Rin pressed his lips into a line, fighting a tremor. Is this really happening?

"Matsuoka-kun?"

He met Saeki's dispassionate gaze.

"Will you represent your country and your team tonight in the medley?"

Rin let go of Haru's hand so he could bow properly. "Hai." His eyes burned. "I promise to do my best."

Someone started clapping, the whole team joining in. Rin's nearest teammates boxed his shoulders as he straightened.

Coach Fujino cleared his throat at the front of the room. "Does anyone else have a grievance with the roster? I only want to change the paperwork once." He scanned the room…and smiled in a pained sort of way. "Very well. I want to, again, thank the alternates for your hard work and dedication to the team. Warm ups commence at nine PM tonight; obviously we'll be focused on exchanges and final adjustments for the relay teams. Questions, Olympians?" When there were none, Fujino nodded. "Alright, dismissed."

"Rin." Haru hugged him tight around the waist.

"Rin-senpai!" Momo glommed onto him from behind.

Mikoshiba gave him a thumbs-up from the right side of the room, Takara doing the same.

You guys… Rin blinked back tears. He couldn't help but glance towards the door.

Sugiyama turned to go, Rin catching the look of resignation on his face, but there was relief, too.

"Sugiyama-kun." Saeki joined him at the door. She wasn't exactly smiling, but she looked pleased. "Walk with me."

Rin watched his childhood hero leave with the JOC official. Maybe there was something to the 4x200m free. When you stood up to Damien Andrews and motivated us. Deep down, maybe a sliver remained of the teenager who'd looked so thrilled to make the National Team for Athens, before the rivalry became your life. The JOC hasn't given up on you yet.

Rin's heart settled. I don't mind swimming in your place tonight, Sugiyama-senpai. He smiled to himself, hugging his teammates. Let's see what happens in four years.

-x-

The night was clear with a few bright stars visible over the well-lit Olympic Park. The Aquatic Centre glowed blue and white with inner light. While fans roamed the park in team colors with banners, streamers, and signs, the nine officially-rostered medley relay members posed for photos by the Olympic rings at the JOC's request. Haseda was the photographer.

Rin's cheeks ached from grinning. He stood between Haru and Kawamura for more pictures than he could count, going blind from the flashes.

"Alright, that's a wrap!" Haseda lowered her camera. "Thanks, everyone. Good luck tonight!"

Rin had Haru's hand as they headed inside the stadium for their last night of Olympic swimming. Four and a half months, four training camps, seven international competitions, two high altitude camps…all leading up to one week, now coming to a close.

"I can't believe it's almost over," Rin whispered, looking up at the Rio 2016 banner stretched over the arena entrance.

Haru paused, looking Rin's way, their arms outstretched and connected between them. "You know this is just the start, Rin. Of our Someday."

Rin grinned, biting his lower lip as he squeezed Haru's fingers.

Haru's eyes shimmered blue like the stadium. "Was that cheesy and romantic enough for you?"

"Yeah. Come on." Rin picked up the pace, leading the way inside…

-x-

Rin had the most work to make up during exchange practice. He did a dozen with Captain Ikehara, the timing rough at first but cleaner with each iteration.

"That's good, Matsuoka-kun," Coach Fujino said after Rin surfaced. "I don't want you cutting it any closer than that. Ready to switch it up?"

"Hai." Rin swam back to the blocks where Ikehara was waiting, his arm draped over the lane line.

"Nanase-kun." Fujino turned away, waving Haru over from the team area.

Haru nodded, finishing his conversation with Ozawa and Konishi as he came over, his left wrist still taped as a precaution.

"I think you've got it down, Matsuoka," Captain Ikehara said, smiling.

Rin drew a breath, lifting his goggles to his forehead. "Thanks." He wiped water from his face, hesitating. "This is…a little weird, huh?"

"Just because I usually swim this race with him?" Ikehara's expression was fond. "It's about time Sugiyama-senpai does some soul-searching." The captain stripped off his cap and goggles. "The JOC had nothing to lose, putting him on the spot like that. But you have every right to be here, Matsuoka-kun. On your own merit."

Rin nodded. "I'm not really questioning it anymore."

"I get it. We're all a little in awe of him, myself included. But that's the problem with pedestals, right?"

"Hai."

Captain Ikehara squeezed his shoulder, smiling with warmth before he turned to climb out of the pool.

"Rin." Haru was up on the block, goggles in place. "Why aren't you ready yet?"

Someone's impatient. Rin grinned, lowering his goggles and twisting underwater, pushing off from the wall with both feet. He swam out to fifteen meters and surfaced, waiting for Coach Fujino to give the signal as Haru bent forward, wholly focused on him. Rin's heart started to beat faster. Let's do this, Haru.

-x-

"Go Team Japan on three, ready?" Ozawa led the cheer, the eight of them in a tight huddle in the first call room. "One, two, three—"

"Go Team Japan!" They each pumped a fist into the air, then broke apart for final hugs and slaps on the back as the women's team headed to final call.

"Good luck, you guys!" Otani waved vigorously at Rin and the other men, looking as manic as usual.

"Come on…" Sada slung an arm around the girl's shoulders. "We're definitely getting you a drink tonight when we're done here."

Otani paled. "But I've never, um…"

"Up to you, but I'd pay money to watch you sing drunk karaoke."

"I do like karaoke…" Otani blushed. "I could maybe try…one drink. Or part of one."

Sada chuckled. "You got it."

"Sadaaaa." Momo flailed in Sada's wake, Rin grabbing the back of the kid's sakura jacket.

Sada glanced over her shoulder. "Yeah, Squeaker?"

"Hee. If we both win medals, can I have another kiss?"

Sada quirked a brow. "Right… 'cause you handled the last one so well."

"Ehh…" Momo flushed pink. "I was thinking like…the way Sakamoto-senpai—"

Rin clapped a hand over the kid's mouth. "I'm telling your brother you said that."

Sada winked. "Sure, Squeaker. That comes with a four-year raincheck."

"Awww…" Momo went limp, held up only by Rin's grip on his jacket.

"Growing up is tough, isn't it, Momotarou-kun?" Captain Ikehara said, smiling. "Good luck, ladies."

Haru traded hugs with Konishi and Ozawa.

"Good luck, Nanase-kun!"

"Thanks, you too."

After another round of waving, the women disappeared through the doorway into final call.

Momo folded himself into a chair, pouting, and took out his phone. The TV screen followed the women from Denmark, USA, and Belarus as they made their victory lap for medaling in the 50m free. Sada had taken seventh place. The ceremony for the men's 1500m free would follow, with the Italians going one-three and the United States nabbing silver. Mikoshiba had taken sixth place, just behind Ty from the Australian team.

Haru sat down, taking out his earbuds and working them under his cap. Rin cocked a brow, wondering what was on Haru's playlist tonight—karaoke? Málaga photoshoot? Haru met his gaze, his blue eyes glittering and spicy. The answer was superfluous; either way, Rin could tell what was on Haru's mind. He glanced away, clearing his throat and rubbing the back of his neck as heat crept up his spine. Not that I can say anything different…

It was nearing time for the women's relay when the American men's team arrived in their matching parkas.

Damien came over, sizing Rin up with a flick of cool eyes that matched his smile. "The Japanese team must be tired of winning medals if you're swimming the fly leg." …All said in lovely dulcet tones, like usual.

With everything Rin had been through with Sugiyama today… "I'm not getting into this with you." I don't care what you think about me or my swimming.

"Someone's salty about last night's silver medal tie." Ethan, in green and gold, slipped an arm around Damien's shoulders and winked at Rin.

Damien exhaled, glaring mildly at the Australian captain. "And you're awfully cocky after one gold medal."

"Hey, I learned from the best." Ethan drew Damien away, giving Rin a quick wave.

"Nicely handled, Matsuoka-kun," Captain Ikehara said as Rin dropped into a chair between him and Haru.

"Ehh." If you say so. "You make a point of staying off his radar, huh?"

Ikehara shrugged. "We've got different specialties. But, yeah."

Because you were there in Beijing. Rin didn't ask.

The women headed out for their race, Team Japan having lane three between the United States and Russia. The men filed into the final call room, Rin's phone lighting off as it had been for the last thirty minutes.

Nitori sent him and Momo a video of the Samezuka crowd cheering. "Captain Matsuoka, Momo-senpai, ganbatte!" They were all decked out in Team Japan gear, Nitori most of all. "Good luck, Rin-senpai, Momo-kun!"

Sousuke, home for Obon, was sitting on the edge of the group in the recording, smiling affectionately at the others' antics. [Clean up out there, Rin,] he texted.

There was a second video from the Iwatobi group—Makoto, Nagisa, Rei, Gou, Rin's mom, and Mikan with all of the families and the new members of the Iwatobi swim team. "Good luck, you guys!" Individual messages were lost amidst the cheering and incoherent squealing.

[Best of luck, Rin. We're cheering you on from Sydney. Tell Haruka for us, too,] Russell and Lori wrote.

"Haru." Rin nudged his lover, showing him the text.

Haru smiled with his eyes. "My parents did this." Haru offered his phone. The picture had Haru's parents in the center and a crowd of people gathered with them. They held a large Japanese flag, everyone wearing Team Japan bandanas on their foreheads. "It's a bunch of my dad's coworkers and their families."

Rin smiled.

"Ladies and gentlemen, quiet for the start, please."

He shifted his attention to the screen, where Konishi was in the water for Team Japan.

"Take your marks."

Come on, ladies…

The signal was given, the swimmers arcing backward into the pool, the roaring crowd filling the stadium with cheering…

It was a tough race, the medals in the end going to the United States, Australia, and Denmark. Japan took seventh, the women hugging in the background with bittersweet smiles as the cameras focused on the celebrating victors.

At the front of the final call room, two Rio officials lifted their clipboards. "Germany…" "Brazil…"

Nerves and eagerness woke in Rin's stomach as he got up, putting his phone away.

"This is it, you guys," Captain Ikehara said as the four of them huddled up. "Well, Matsuoka?"

"Me?" Rin blinked, meeting his captain's gaze.

Ikehara nodded, his smile warm and expectant.

Rin blushed. "Ehh." I'm still trying to believe this is happening right now.

"Come on, Rin-senpai!" Momo beamed at him.

"Rin." Haru's eyes were full of affection and the same excitement Rin felt. But the look was more than just tenderness, Haru tracing the sakura pattern on Rin's jacket with his fingertips.

Oh. Rin grinned. He tightened his arm around Haru's shoulders, looking at his teammates. "This is it—our moment, our chance—in front of the world…" Rin drew a breath, the feeling—like a glow—welling up inside him. "Let's show them—"

Haru said it with him, "—a sight they've never seen before."

"Yeah!" Momo thrust a fist into the air, making the huddle a mess with his dancing.

Captain Ikehara chuckled as he shepherded the kid towards the line. He glanced back over his shoulder. "Someday, you guys have to tell me the story behind that one."

Rin's face grew hot, but he owned it like the twelve-year-old kid he used to be, standing under a sakura tree. "You got it, Captain."

Arms slipped around his waist. Haru leaned in, their goggles meeting with a tap as their foreheads touched.

"We're supposed to be lining up," Rin whispered.

"I know." Haru didn't budge. "I would've been OK with it, if you only got to swim the heats… But I'm glad it's you, Rin."

"Haru…" A rush of heat gathered in Rin's throat.

"I'm happy we get to swim this relay together."

"Oi—" Rin blinked against the sudden sting in his eyes. You're not supposed to make me cry before the race… "Damnit, Haru," he muttered, hugging his lover fiercely. You make me feel like we're kids again. Only, this isn't the last relay we swim together before I leave for Australia…it's the first on our way to forever—

"Senhor Nanase! Senhor Matsuoka! Por favor!"

They broke apart, heading to their place in line behind the Australians. Rin's ears burned under his swim cap. Haru looked a tad sheepish, but there was no mistaking the pleasure in his eyes. Rin relaxed, smiling, and took Haru's hand.

"Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the athletes in the championship final of the men's four-by-one hundred medley."

"In lane eight, representing Germany…" After the introduction was repeated in Portuguese, the relay members were named by the announcer as the team walked out.

"In lane one, representing Brazil…" The crowd noise spiked as the Brazilian team headed out.

"In lane seven, representing Russia…"

"In lane two, representing China…"

"In lane six, representing Australia… …Dave Turner, Tristan McKay, Dillon Lee, and Ethan McInnes."

Team Japan stepped up to the doorway, waiting just out of sight.

"In lane three, representing the United States of America…"

There was the cowbell, loud as ever, as Damien Andrews and his team were introduced.

We're up. Rin drew a deep breath. Haru squeezed his hand.

"In lane five, representing Japan…" The four of them linked hands, walking out in front of the screen bearing a rippling Japanese flag. "…Momotarou Mikoshiba, Yoshino Ikehara, Rin Matsuoka, and Haruka Nanase."

They raised their clasped hands high to a surge of cheering before heading for their lane. The loudest yelling came from their teammates in the stands on the left, on their feet and waving their Japanese flags.

"In lane four, representing Great Britain…"

Momo managed to bounce around and strip at the same time. You snuck a bunch of soda again, didn't you? Ikehara waved to his wife and daughter before sitting down in the chair and loosening his shoelaces. Rin and Haru stood behind with the other fly swimmers and anchors; their team alongside the best in the world.

Rin hadn't yet let go of Haru's hand and he wasn't planning to until it really became necessary. We're finally here—our last race in Rio. From that first night at Haru's apartment in Tokyo, watching Coach Fujino's interview during the Olympic Trials after he'd finally made the team, Rin's journey here with Haru and their teammates had been filled with countless moments that he treasured. This was one more.

Haru met his gaze, his blue eyes shining with sakura-tree promises and endless possibilities. Rin grinned as the four-pulse sounded, followed by the long-whistle.

Momo jumped into the pool, wiggling his way up to the start holds.

"Quiet for the start, please. Ladies and gentlemen, quiet for the start."

It took a handful of seconds for the crowd to calm down, especially with a Brazilian team in the race. Finally, the noise faded…

"Take your marks."

The buzzer sounded, Momo flipping backwards into the water in Japan's lane. While Captain Ikehara went to adjust the block and get ready, Rin took the chair, pulling off his shoes.

Momo's sprint was even more insane than during yesterday's heats. He was keeping pace with the American lead-off swimmer two lanes over, the two easily head-and-shoulders ahead of the rest of the pack. They flipped over into the turn, Momo trailing by a sliver as they pushed off the wall and raced back to the start. Ikehara was up on the lane five block for Team Japan in his sakura jammers. Momo hit the wall, his time flashing up sub-52. Pretty sure that's a new Japanese record.

Ikehara was the second one into the pool for the breaststroke leg. Rin moved the wedge, making sure the block was dry, before he stripped down to his leg skins. There was one other really important thing he had to do.

"Haru."

Rin lifted his lover's wrist to his lips, soaking up the tenderness and excitement in Haru's eyes.

Haru smiled. "Go," he said, shoving gently.

Rin grinned, lowering his goggles and heading for the block—

The British gold medalist and world record holder in lane four was swimming the fastest breaststroke Rin had ever seen. Great Britain's team had trailed during the backstroke leg, but now they surged ahead into first place. Their swimmer hit the water first for the fly leg; Rin diving a few tenths of a second after.

He plunged into cool water, coming up to smooth and rapid strokes of fly—the stroke Sugiyama was famous for. Rin worked his way past the swimmer from Great Britain on his right; Dillon Lee was trailing on his left for the Australian team. He knew what Damien Andrews would be doing two lanes over; Rin kept his pace tight and aggressive, but the desperation he'd felt last night in the fly was gone. He didn't have anything he needed to prove to anyone, not anymore. He was swimming the way he wanted to, swimming his best for his team, and that was all that mattered.

Rin touched tile at the open turn, ducking underwater and catching a glimpse of Damien in lane three at the same time Damien was looking at him. Nice. Rin grinned to himself as he surfaced for the final thirty-five meters, with Haru waiting for him on the block. Sorry, Andrews, but this one's mine. Rin focused his entire body on Haru, on the race they'd been swimming together since they were kids, on the exchange they'd done a thousand times that always made his heart pound and his breath catch—

Rin slapped his hands home, Haru shadowing him as he dove…and for one split-second, Rin saw a different pattern of lights, a crowd full of Japanese fans including their friends and family, and a flash of gold from Haru's left hand— OK, there was no way Haru would be swimming with jewelry on, but still...

Rin knew his cheeks were pink as he fought for breath and hoisted himself out of the pool. Momo glommed onto him, but Rin was still in the future, overwhelmed with the way their lives could change between now and Tokyo 2020. Haru…

Two lanes over, Damien Andrews was climbing out of the pool for the United States, breathing just as hard as Rin. The guy gave him a look that was something like, Not bad. But Damien wasn't conceding anything with that glance, either.

Ethan hit the pool in the lane on their left, making five anchors in the water. The United States immediately edged into the lead; Haru was second. The two were well ahead of the rest of the pack, but the British anchor in lane four and Ethan in lane six were taking chunks out of the gap with each stroke. By the time they hit the final turn, the swimmers in lanes three through six were in a jagged line, with the United States and Japan ahead by slim margins.

"Nanase-senpai!" Momo clung like a limpet to Rin's back.

"Nanase-kun!" Captain Ikehara was next to them.

Rin waited until the swimmers crossed the halfway point, cupping his hands around his mouth. "Haru!"

Haru leapt forward, coming up into an all-out sprint like nothing Rin had ever seen and certainly not since his injury. Flecks of foam and white water surrounded the swimmers as they charged for the finish, Haru sailing towards the wall with each perfect stroke of free—

The first four teams hit in rapid succession—United States, Japan, Great Britain, Australia. Rin blinked in astonishment as the crowd showered them with deafening cheers. Holy shit—we did it. Silver for Team Japan and not only that, the margin between first and second place had only been a couple tenths of a second.

Rin threw his caps and goggles to the pool deck, reaching down by the blocks. "Haru!"

Haru turned from the board, drawing rapid breaths as he pushed his goggles onto his forehead. "Rin—" He clasped Rin's hand, letting Rin help him from the water.

Haru was in Rin's arms the next instant, breathless and leaning against him. "Rin…" His name was a whisper, Rin meeting wide eyes, blue that shimmered like the pool. Water rolled down Haru's face, dripping onto Rin's arms. "I saw…something incredible."

Rin's breath hitched. Did we see the same thing? There wasn't time to get into it here. Later, though, when they were alone and it was quiet… For now, Rin tightened his arms, drawing Haru closer. "Me too," he whispered back.

"Nanase-senpai! Rin-senpai!" Momo latched onto them with arms and legs—

"Oi, Momo." Rin laughed, managing to keep his balance.

Captain Ikehara joined the hug, the four of them sharing grins and smiles until Momo noticed the cameras and hopped down.

"Mika-nee! Gou-san!" Momo waved vigorously, shoving his face towards the lens while the poor camera operator tried to back away.

Rin snagged the kid's arm. "Save it for the Mixed Zone, Momo."

"Aww."

They shook hands with the Australian team after that—Dave, Tristian, Dillon, and Ethan, whom they'd swam against in training a week ago.

"Well, I'd say we've got your number." Ethan extended his hand. "Congrats, Haruka, Rin. Let's give it another go in Tokyo."

Haru nodded, clasping the Australian captain's hand. "We'll look forward to it."

The cowbell and USA-USA chants were still going on as they gathered their things, waving to their teammates in the stands and heading for the Mixed Zone.

Coach Akagi and Coach Maekawa were there and spent the next several minutes shepherding them down the line. Rin found himself answering the same questions over and over again.

"How does it feel?" "What can you say about the race?" "What are your thoughts on Tokyo 2020?"

"It was amazing—a dream come true." "Tonight was a huge team effort and accomplishment; we couldn't have done it without Kawamura, who swam the prelim round with us." "Absolutely, we're planning on Tokyo 2020."

…And then Team USA showed up and no one wanted to talk to the silver medalists anymore.

Captain Ikehara shrugged, smiling. "We can't compete with Damien Andrews' swan song."

"Does that mean we can go now?" Haru asked.

Don't look so excited about it. Rin grinned.

Maekawa ticked things off her fingers. "Warm down, ceremony prep, ceremony, and press conference. You all know the drill."

"Nn." Haru pursed his lips, looking irritated.

"Believe me, it'll go by faster than you think," Maekawa said.

Beside her, Akagi nodded.

"Try to enjoy it."

-x-

After showering and dressing, Rin and Haru followed their teammates out of the locker room, meeting up with their coaches to be escorted to the opposite side of the pool.

"I'll be a minute," Ikehara said, slipping away.

Momo bounced his way over to the women's medley teams—also headed to the ceremony room. "Hi! My name is Momo," he said in English.

"Aww, isn't he cute?"

Maekawa sighed and went after him.

"Rin," Haru whispered, catching Rin's arm at the elbow.

He stopped, glancing over towards the green Rio barrier…

Captain Ikehara was next to the barrier, embracing his wife and daughter. Chiyo was smiling and crying in her red, white, and black Team Ikehara T-shirt, the captain looked on the verge of tears himself, and little Manami—in the center of the embrace—looked confused.

"Why's Mommy crying?" she asked, tugging on her mother's sleeve. Manami was decked out in a tiny Team Ikehara sweatshirt with a frilly red skirt and white tights.

"Because I'm happy, baby," Chiyo said, dabbing at her tears with a tissue.

"You too, Daddy?"

"Yeah."

The girl still looked puzzled. From Ikehara's arms, she looked around.

Rin and Haru had been watching from a polite distance, but when Manami's face lit—

"Rin! Har-ka!"

Oops—spotted. Rin shared a smile with Haru as Ikehara and his wife waved them over.

"Congratulations, you two!" Chiyo said, smiling broadly after drying her eyes.

"Thanks."

"Rin!" Manami struggled in her father's arms, making grabbing motions with her hands.

"Wanna try?" Haru asked.

"Eh…" Rin blushed, rubbing the side of his neck. "If you help me."

Haru accepted the girl from Ikehara, bringing her close. Manami immediately latched onto Rin's hair with tiny fists.

"Mana-chan, don't pull," Ikehara said.

"Mana's not pulling," she said.

"Like this." Haru placed the child on Rin's hip, positioning his arms and hands to support her.

It wasn't…so hard… Rin was face-to-face with Manami at first, then she exhaled and lay her head against his shoulder, settling in quietly. His heart was pounding, but Haru was right there, his hands still guiding Rin's arms and standing so close he was almost holding both of them. Haru was so calm and not scared. Rin started to relax…until he thought, This could be us, someday, and his face heated up again.

"You're doing great, Rin," Haru whispered, looking pleased and happy.

"Really?" He kind of doubted it; Manami was a very easy-going child. But with a glance at the girl's parents—Captain Ikehara and his wife looking on and smiling… Guess I'm not doing it totally wrong.

Ikehara and Chiyo quietly continued their conversation, drawing Haru in occasionally. As the minutes went by, the child grew heavier in Rin's arms, her grip on his hair relaxing.

"Mana-chan?" Rin whispered.

The girl's eyes were closed, her breaths soft and regular. She didn't make a peep.

"I think she's asleep," Haru murmured.

"Oh, let me take her back." Chiyo reached for the girl. "In case she drools on your uniform."

Haru gently extracted the child from Rin's arms and gave her back to her mother. "Thank you," he said.

"Anytime." Chiyo smiled, balancing the sleeping toddler on her hip. "Mana really likes you guys. Let us know if you ever want to come visit."

For parenting practice? Rin was certain his face was the same color as his hair. "Thanks."

They left Ikehara with his family, continuing on towards the ceremony room.

"Still want to, Rin?" Haru asked in a whisper. "Someday."

Rin laced their fingers together. "Yeah."

-x-

"Mesdames et Messieurs, les médaillés d'argent, représentant le Japon…"

They stepped onto the podium, hands linked and raised high in triumph. The crowd cheered, Japanese flags rippling in the stands. As their names were called, Rin bowed his head to receive his third and final Rio medal. The silver medallion gleamed under the bright stadium lighting. Rin ran his thumb over the inscription as Haru got the last medal, beside him. Soon, the photographers in front of the podium were motioning the four of them together for pictures.

Rin draped an arm around Haru's shoulders, Haru's hand resting on his waist as they held their medals for the photos, Captain Ikehara and Momo leaning in next to them.

From the time the gold medalists were announced, Damien Andrews and his team stole the show. Rin didn't care. He savored their victory lap around the pool—his last time standing here on the pool deck in Rio, grinning for pictures with his teammates, waving to their supporters in the stands. Except for Momo running the length of the pool with a Japanese flag held high overhead (until the Rio officials managed to corral him), the ceremony went off smoothly.

The press conference followed with the majority of questions directed at Damien Andrews or at others about Damien Andrews (it was not surprising but still annoying). There were more interviews with the JOC and Japanese reporters as the stadium emptied out, including pictures with Kawamura, who would get his medal in a team ceremony tomorrow morning.

But the obligations did end, their coaches putting them and their teammates on one of the last buses back to the Athletes' Village. Party plans were the topic of conversation during the short ride—who knew about the elite gatherings, which country was planning the biggest bash with the most alcohol, where house parties were going on outside of the Village...

Several invitations were thrown Rin and Haru's way, which wasn't unusual. It'd been happening all week since they started winning medals.

We're finally done. Rin leaned close to his lover, his heart starting to thud in his chest. "You, uh…want to stay in tonight, right?"

Haru gave him a look that made the blood boil in his veins. "Rin, I don't even want to get dinner."

The air hissed out through Rin's teeth as he settled back against the seat. Why the fuck aren't we there yet?

When the bus finally arrived, they got off and went through security with their gear bags, separating from the rowdy crowd as soon as they were on Village grounds. Haru had a firm grip on Rin's hand as they headed for their tower. It took all of Rin's willpower not to sprint for the door—

"Rin-senpai!"

Fuck.

"I didn't hear anything," Haru muttered.

Rin glanced back against his better judgment. Momo looked confused as they split off in opposite directions.

"You're not—?"

"Come on, Squeaker." Sada slung an arm around the kid's shoulders and steered him towards the dining hall.

"We'll, uh, be at least thirty minutes," Mikoshiba said, coughing into his fist.

Rin's face caught fire, but he'd never been more grateful to his former captain.

With an awkward wave, they dashed towards the building and pushed through the doors into the well-lit lobby. Other Japanese athletes and JOC staff were coming and going and hanging out. Rin drummed his fingers against his thigh as they waited for the elevator. After a lengthy fifteen seconds, the car arrived and emptied out.

Inside, Rin punched the button for the eighth floor. The elevator doors slid closed, leaving them alone for the first time in hours—

Gear bags hit the floor, their arms winding around each other. Rin exhaled shakily, his gaze fixed on Haru's lips. "If I start kissing you, I'm not gonna be able to stop."

"I don't want you to stop, Rin." Haru closed the gap between them, the press of lips alone sending a jolt through Rin's body.

Haru… The rush of pleasure was immediate and heady, Rin burying his hands in Haru's hair and angling his head for better access. He groaned deep in his throat when Haru let him in, their tongues meeting in the warmth of their mouths. Water kisses—as Haru called them—had never been off-limits, but in three weeks it hadn't felt this good… Rin never even heard the ding for their floor—

"Wonder twins! Get a room that's not the elevator!"

Rin and Haru broke apart.

"Sorry, Sakamoto," Rin muttered as they gathered their bags from the floor, slipping past Takara in her party clothes.

She rolled her eyes, flipping loose black hair over her shoulder as she boarded the elevator.

Rin fumbled for the key to their apartment at their door, a task made harder when warm hands crept under his sakura jacket, Haru's hands splayed against his skin.

He nearly dropped the key. Fuck. Rin drew a breath, managing to get the door unlocked and open—

They kicked their shoes off in the entryway, throwing their bags down as soon as they got to the bedroom. Rin's back hit the wall not far from the sunset poster. Haru's hands were on his shoulders; Rin's gaze was filled with blue and Haru's lips that were reddened from their kisses. The lights were off, the room lit by a soft glow from the Village beyond the balcony. It gilded Haru's raven hair with silver and made their medals gleam.

Rin's lungs emptied in a rush. He got his hands on Haru's waist, pulling his lover against him. "Love you," he whispered, reaching for the zipper of Haru's jacket.

Haru's eyes softened with pleasure. He leaned in. "Love you, Rin." The words were whispered against Rin's lips, followed by a kiss that stole Rin's breath and quickened his pulse—

Rin unzipped Haru's jacket, their medals clinking quietly between them. "We need fewer—"

"—clothes." Haru hooked a thumb over the tab of Rin's zipper, finding his lips again…

-x-

Rin had zero concept of time as they lay there breathing. "…Fuck." While the air-conditioning slowly cooled their bodies, he scrubbed his face with one hand, his skin smelling like sweat, chlorine, and Haru.

The mattress creaked as Haru shifted beside him. "If it's going to be that good…"

"No, we're never doing that again."

Laughter met Rin's ears. "OK, Rin." Haru took his hand, lacing their fingers together, their bracelets brushing at their wrists.

Rin turned his head, meeting the warmth and mirth in his lover's eyes, skin flushed pink with exertion, chest rising and falling with breath. He remembered what he saw in the pool and his cheeks went hot. "Na, Haru…"

"Hm?"

"I think…" Rin's face burned all the way to the tips of his ears as he forced the words out. "…being, uh, sort of engaged is OK."

Haru stilled, his eyes going wide. "Rin…"

"—For now. At some point, one of us is gonna have to propose properly…"

Haru's face lit with so much delight that Rin almost caved on the spot. But he had nothing prepared—no ring and there should be some sort of date involved, not just hot sex (though Rin wasn't opposed to that happening too)…

Blue eyes flicked across Rin's face and Haru smiled. "In that case…"

Rin lifted a brow.

"Your sort-of fiancé is hungry."

"You said you didn't want dinner."

"I said I didn't want dinner then. I want it now."

Rin rolled his eyes. "Haru…"

"I have saba in my bag—"

"—No." Rin got up, pulling Haru with him. "Shower, dinner, bed."

Haru hummed his approval en route to the bathroom.

-x-

The karaoke was just getting started two apartments over when they snuck out for dinner. By the time they got back… Rin blinked in disbelief as the elevator doors opened on their floor to roving, multi-colored lights and mayhem. The party had spilled from apartment 802 into the atrium; people were everywhere and several of them were getting very friendly with each other… Bean bag chairs and couches had been pulled out of apartments, along with end tables cluttered with cans and bottles. In addition to the Japanese swim team, half of the Australian swim team was present, along with most of the Japanese women's field hockey team and men's rugby team. And at the center of it all, microphone in hand, was Takara drunkenly belting out Wrecking Ball at the top of her lungs.

Rin pinched his nose as they reluctantly stepped out of the elevator. We weren't gone that long; how the fuck did everything go off the rails this fast?

"Matsuoka-kunnnn…" Otani stumbled over, obviously tipsy, her light brown hair loose from its usual bun. She wore a college sweatshirt and leggings, her brow creased and eyes on the verge of panic. "I don't know what to do…" She fell against them, Rin catching the girl by the arm.

Fuck. "Where's…?"

"The captain said he was off with his family tonight," Haru said.

"Shit, you're right." Rin scanned the atrium. Mikoshiba was lying on the floor near the karaoke machine, a beer can in hand as he mumbled the words to Takara's song. Ozawa was on one of the couches—in the lap of an Australian swimmer—as she sang along. Sada and Kawamura were nowhere to be found (and Rin had no intention of searching for them or whoever they were with…). Meanwhile, Momo was sitting cross-legged on the floor, watching people make out. Konishi was the only one who looked reasonably sober as she chatted with several members of the rugby team.

Just when Rin thought he'd seen the worst of it, the relay-only guys—Higashi and Hirota—came running by in their underwear with Team Japan shorts on their heads.

"What happens in the Village…" Haru mumbled.

"We're gonna get in so much trouble…" Otani clung to Rin's arm, wailing.

Rin scrubbed his face with one hand. "What time is it?"

Haru checked his phone. "Way past curfew."

"Coach Fujino's gonna have our asses when he finds out about this."

"Yeah, this is worse than my birthday," Haru said.

Rin sighed. I guess I gotta do it, huh?

Haru glanced at him askance. "You're gonna go Captain mode, Rin?"

"Tch. Someone has to." Especially when the deputy captain is part of the problem. Ozawa looked really comfortable. On the other side of the atrium, Koda was cozying up to another member of the Australian team, but the way he kept sneaking looks at Ozawa, it was totally envy-flirting.

Rin pried Otani's fingers from his arm. "Stay here." The girl gulped, nodding. "Haru, you get the lights, I'll get the music?"

Haru smiled with his eyes. "Good luck."

"Thanks…" He left them, wading into the fray.

"Oi, Rin! I brought that six-pack for you!" Ty was at the mercy of the field hockey team and looked pretty happy about it. He gave Rin a thumbs-up, grinning.

Yeah, this is why I don't let you near my sister… Rin waved and continued on—

"—All I wanted was to break your walls... All you ever did was wreck me—"

Takara's English was new levels of awful tonight. Rin was tempted to plug his ears as he squeezed through a crowd of people dancing, searching for the karaoke machine's power cord.

"Matsuoka!" Takara broke off from butchering the song long enough to yell at him. "Karaoke battle—best of three, let's go!"

Her challenge was echoed by several drunken shouts. "Yeah, Matsuoka!" "Come on!"

"Not tonight, Sakamoto," Rin muttered, tracing the power cord back to the outlet. He found the plug and exhaled. How not to make friends in the Olympic Village… He yanked the plug free, the noise and colored lights cutting out—

The overhead lights flicked on, dozens of inebriated Olympians fixing Rin with glares. "Hey!"

He faced the angry mob unapologetically, drawing a breath—

But Maekawa beat him to it. "Do you have any idea what time it is?!" She was standing in front of the east elevators with her arms folded over her sakura jacket. "Get this cleaned up, now!"

The partiers scattered in all directions, leaving a wasteland of discarded clothing and empty cans and bottles in the atrium. Members of the Japanese swim team—in various states of dress and sobriety—sullenly began to gather the trash.

Maekawa rubbed her forehead and sighed. Her gaze found Rin near the outlet. "If you wouldn't mind taking care of your roommates, Matsuoka-kun."

"Hai." Rin headed over to Momo on the floor, the kid wide-eyed and statue-still as if he wouldn't get in trouble if he didn't move. Dummy. "Come on, Momo."

"Hee." The kid jumped to his feet and scurried to their apartment.

"Mikoshiba." Haru had one of the guy's arms.

"Ha…haha…hell of a party." Mikoshiba grinned, raising his beer can in a toast.

"You still have to swim, you idiot," Rin said, grabbing Mikoshiba's other arm.

"Ehh, I only had one beer… Or so…"

Rin rolled his eyes. Between the two of them, they dragged the guy across the atrium.

"Ano, Matsuoka-kun?"

Rin paused, glancing back. "Yeah, Otani?"

The girl had a trash bag in hand as she collected party debris. She smiled at him faintly, her eyes full of relief. "Thanks."

Rin nodded, smiling back. "Anytime."

On the other side of the atrium, Maekawa pulled Ozawa and Koda aside. "Yumiko… Takuya…"

She didn't have to say anything else. The two bowed low. "Sumimasen."

Rin and Haru got the Mikoshiba brothers situated in their bedroom, then went to help the cleanup effort. It didn't end up taking long, though there were a number of clothing items they didn't touch… Rin figured half of the pile would end up on the wall of shame on the fifth floor, come morning.

It was late when they finally turned in for the night. Rin felt grimy in his warmups after handling all of the empty drink containers.

"I'm gonna shower," he said, unzipping his jacket on the way to the bathroom.

"Can I come, Rin?" Haru asked. "I'm tired, but…"

Rin smiled, stopping in the doorway. Like I'm gonna say no. He tossed his jacket to the floor and held out his hand. "Get over here."

Haru came to him, their fingers lacing together and lips meeting as they felt their way to the shower and stripped off their clothes—

"Damnit, Haru! Not cold."

"Sorry. Habit. …How's that?"

"Better," Rin muttered, dragging his hands through Haru's hair. They kissed again—deep and slow—as the warm spray pelted their bodies. "Much better."