Zero was slicing vegetables with the speed and technique of a professional but he dropped the knife in panic when he found himself being hugged from behind.
"Kaname, are you nuts?" Zero glared while still in the brunette's embrace. "You startled me. I would have stabbed you if I didn't know you better."
"I'm sorry. I just got a bit jealous when you were hugging Shiro-san like he was your lifeline."
"He is my lifeline and Kaname, you are acting like a kid. Why would you get jealous over something like that?"
"What are you cooking, Zero?" Kaname asked releasing the silverette from his arms.
"Hey! Don't just change the subject." But Zero didn't press the matter. "I'm thinking of making stew and curry for dinner. Is there something you don't like, Kaname?"
"I'm fine with even capsicum if you are the cook. That tea you made was heavenly."
"So, I'm guessing you aren't a fan of capsicum."
"Wow Zero, how did you know?" Zero giggled. Kaname was too much. Why did he deem necessary to act so childishly around him?
"Stop joking around and tell me what else you don't like."
"I told you Zero, there isn't anything I would dislike coming from your hands."
"You are acting as if we are the main couple of some cheap soap opera."
"Am I?"
"Yes you are and don't even think of touching my kitchenware. I would rather have them in one piece."
"Alright, I understand boss."
"Shiro-san, what do you think about handing Zero to the Kuran mansion as a part time cook?" The trio were enjoying a wonderful dinner cooked and served by none other than our dear Zero.
"Kuran mansion? Do you mean THE Kuran family? The owners of the Kuran group? You mean you are Haruka Kuran's son?"
"You mean you know my dad?"
"Who doesn't know him?"
"I certainly didn't know. Is he someone famous?" Zero intervened.
"They are practically billionaires." Shiro announced his knowledge.
"No way!" To say Zero was bewildered was an understatement. How did I manage to befriend s billionaire's son?
"No wonder you were practically throwing money at me with just words." He said after a thoughtful moment.
"And my offer stands. Let me help you, Zero."
"What is he insisting to help you with, son?"
"Shiro-san, Zero told me about his mother's condition. Let me help. I heard that her condition became critical. It would be better if we let her be treated by one of the best doctors in the country. I can arrange for that." Kaname stated with absolute resoluteness.
"That's ridiculous. Why would you go that far?"
"I would go even further if it's something that would make Zero happier."
"Father, I know that you are not one to receive help from others. But mom's life is not something we can take chances on. I promise I'll repay Kaname when I get a good job." Zero surrendered. He was sick of seeing his father working his ass off and his mother suffering in a comatose.
"Are you sure Kuran-kun?"
"Yes, absolutely."
"Hana-san has been transferred to Kuran private medical center and being treated by the personal doctors specifically assigned for the Kuran family. Hopefully, her health will recover." The nurse announced.
The trio sighed in relief.
"I don't know how to thank you, Kuran-kun. Nonetheless, we're grateful." Shiro said biting back tears. He felt as if a load had been lifted off his shoulders.
"My pleasure. Anything for Zero."
"Kaname, stop enjoying embarrassing me."
"I'm not. I'm being completely serious." Zero blushed even harder.
"Zero, you look red. Do you perhaps have a fever?"
"Huh? No!"
Kaname moved his forehead to slightly collide with the silverette. For a moment, Zero found his heart stop and the next moment his heart beat was having a field day. Even when Kaname moved off of his face, his heart was drumming in his chest.
"Zero, you are hot. You really have a fever. Come on, let's find you a doctor."
"I have a fever?" Zero mumbled to himself. "That explains the increased heart beat. The fever must be really bad."
"What did you say? I couldn't hear you." Kaname asked not stopping from dragging Zero along with him to find the best doctor in the country for treating colds.
"No, it's nothing."
The fever must be really bad. Zero wondered.