A Different Fate

by Musal

What if Train didn't know Creed killed Saya? What if he believed it was Chronos? What if Train helped Creed create the Apostles to get revenge on Chronos? What happens when Train learns the truth? CxT

24. New Bonds, Old Love

I've been trying to post this chapter for almost a week now. I've been given advice from someone of a different way I can try to post it, which is what I'm doing now. Hopefully it'll work.

THIS IS THE NEW CHAPTER! THIS IS CHAPTER 24.

Just wanted to let everyone know that.

I also want to say sorry for all the emails you've been getting from me. Something is wrong with FFN and no one is responding to anyone's questions. Hopefully it'll be fixed soon. In the meantime, I'm waiting to be confirmed to join 'archiveofourown' and once I am, I will be posting my story there as well since FFN keeps having this issue.

Disclaimer: I do not own Black Cat or its characters

CW: Light Yaoi

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The Black Cat groaned loudly as he clutched his head, hoping his hands would be able to stop the throbbing pain that was pulsing through his brain. He opened his eyes slowly, hissing at the rising sun and moving one of his hands to block the antagonizing star. When he did that, he felt something heavy against his shoulder and blinked a few times to focus on what it was, then saw an arm dangling across his chest.

Squinting, he looked up and saw Creed's sleeping face, his lips turning a slight blue as he shivered against the cold, morning air. Train then noticed he was wrapped tightly in the silver man's robe and rolled his eyes, realizing what happened.

I passed out of the roof and Creed tried to keep me warm. Why didn't he just bring me downstairs?

Looking at his ex-partner, he felt a prick of frustration stab at his chest. He already knew why. Chances were Train was too drunk for him to wake up and Creed might have been too exhausted to carry his limp body off the roof.

Besides that, he probably didn't want to pass by the opportunity to hold me again.

Train sighed as he noticed the position Creed was in. He was slumped over, shaking violently as he clung tightly to the cat's body, using his own body to shield Train from the cold. The gunman touched Creed's fingers lightly, frowning when he felt how cold they were. The tips of his fingers and nose had turned a lighter shade of white, signaling to Train he was beginning to experience hypothermia.

He's going to get sick. Why would he put himself through this? I know he misses sleeping with me, but this is absurd! And he knows I would be angry at him.

The strange thing was, he wasn't angry. Train actually felt more pity and worry for the man than he did anger. Creed was obviously not comfortable, yet despite that, he was smiling blissfully, whispering sweet, loving words about Train.

"Ich liebe dich so sehr, Train…" (1)

Train watched him sleep a bit longer, his mind wandering back to a memory he had with the swordsman. The night after they first made love, Creed wrapped him entirely in the blankets, not caring about his own warmth, wanting to make sure Train was comfortable as they slept.

"I just didn't want you to catch a cold, Train…"

"Well, you should be more concerned with your health, Creed. When are you going to stop putting me before yourself?"

Smiling, Creed responded in a joking manner, but made sure Train would still be able to tell he was serious. "When will the sun stop burning?"

Train acted as if thinking about it. "I think… about seven or eight billion years, give or take."

Creed laughed, "That's very good, Train. I guess I'll have to find something more immortal to use as a metaphor. How about—When you no longer have a taste for milk?"

"You might actually have something there."

Train felt himself smile warmly at the memory, then felt the nostalgia quickly turn into heartache again as he remembered how their relationship ended. Anger began to rise in him once more, and that part of him that couldn't let go of the resentment he had for Creed came rushing back in full force. As that part took over, Train felt himself enjoying the fact that his ex-partner was uncomfortable right now.

No, no, I can't do that. I can't feel that way. It's wrong. He's still a human being. I can't start enjoying his pain again. He made sure to keep me warm, risked himself getting sick or worse, just so he didn't have to wake me. He even made sure to not hold me too intimately.

While Creed was holding him close, it was very obviously in a way to keep him warm rather than for the intimate contact. Train was sure Creed was enjoying it in that way, but that was something neither of them could help. Try as he might, Train knew Creed would never be able to stop loving him, no matter how much the cat wished that would happen.

It would make it easier for both of us to move on, but that's never going to happen… Which actually makes me feel bad for him since I know I'll never return those feelings again… I can't.

Train didn't seem to question why he was still allowing the man to hold him nor did he appear to really notice it was still happening. It was as if he didn't register the closeness of his ex-lover and he didn't seem to be in a rush to push him off. However, the cat was completely oblivious to these facts as he watched Creed sleep with a small, unconscious smile.

Creed shivered again and pulled Train closer, the gunman again not questioning why he was allowing the man to hold him tighter. "Mi sei mancato così tanto, Train. Per favore, non calciarmi di nuovo di lato." (2)

Train sighed at the man's sad words, feeling the anger he had earlier changed to pity quickly as he sat up and tried to wake Creed. Judging by the sun, it was still pretty early and he knew he got home late, so they were probably only up there for a few hours. Despite that, Train wanted to get Creed back in bed and warmed up so he would get at least a little bit of comfortable sleep.

Train took the robe off himself and wrapped it around his former partner, rubbing the man's shoulder to wake him and warm him up. "Creed? Creed, wake up. You need to go to bed."

Creed giggled lightly. "Th-that's a c-contradiction…"

The cat blinked at the swordsman, then chuckling unknowingly. "Very funny. You know what's not funny? Catching pneumonia because you're a stubborn brat who refused to move a drunk cat."

Creed frowned, but kept his eyes closed, pulling the robe tighter around his lithe frame. "Y-you're one to t-talk about being s-stubborn. I tried to m-move you, but y-you refused. I-I just didn't w-want you t-to get s-sick."

Train rolled his eyes and rubbed the man's shoulders vigorously again, sparking his fingers with electricity to speed up Creed's warming process. "Listen to yourself! You're literally shaking."

Creed smiled and opened his eyes a little, seeing his beloved's outline against the rising sun and sighed peacefully.

He's touching me again… He's trying to keep me warm… He really does care…

He fought the urge to press his body forward and into his beloved's chest. "A-are you o-okay?"

Train blinked at Creed, then rolled his eyes as he moved his hands to Creed's ears, using his Tao to try and warm those up as well. "Other than feeling like my head's been slammed into a concrete wall by the rhinosaur, I'm fine. Stop worrying about me! It's infuriating."

Creed chuckled quietly, knowing Train' voice gave away that he wasn't actually mad. "Yes, T-Train…" The silver man sighed enchantedly as his Kitten moved his hands to warm up his cheeks, deliriously delighted to be receiving such loving contact from the man. "Y-you were r-really d-drunk last night, T-Train. I k-knew if y-you stayed u-up here y-you'd get h-hypothermia in no t-time."

Train sighed and grabbed Creed's hands, again using his Tao to try and warm them up. "Yeah, and now it looks like you're getting it. Let's just get you to your room."

Creed felt his head fall forward despite himself, landing directly on his beloved's chest and nuzzling it in subconsciously. "Yes, T-Train… Anything for y-you…"

The Black Cat realized Creed was falling asleep on the spot and frowned deeply when the man fell forward against his chest. Sighing, Train decided to warm his whole body with his blue spark, wrapping his arms around the man to try and warm him up a bit more. He felt his ex-partner snuggling in closer and Train adjusted his arms a little to make sure Creed was rested securely in them.

Once Train was sure Creed was safely in his arms, he flashed the two of them off the roof and in front of the door. Feeling the swordsman still shivering against him and knowing the limpness of his body meant he was falling back asleep, Train used one arm to hold the man against him, making sure his body was still sparking with warmth while his other dug into his pocket to pull out his key.

The gunman unlocked the door and led Creed inside. The silver man was able to walk a little on his own, but Train had a feeling Creed couldn't feel his legs, so he knew he needed to help. Train adjusted the man slightly by wrapping one arm around Creed's waist, the other resting on his shoulder and allowed his former lover to lean on him. Creed smiled happily and rested his head on his beloved's shoulder, nuzzling his face as close as Train would let him.

"Thank you, Train…"

Again, the cat was smiling unknowingly as he walked Creed to his room. When they reached it, Train led him to the bed, pulling the blankets back and helping the silver man lay down. Creed snuggled into the blankets, still smiling brightly despite the shivers he was still experiencing as Train wrapped the blankets tightly around him. When his love walked away, he whined quietly, hoping his Kitten didn't hear his needy protest.

Train rolled his eyes as Creed whined and walked over to the closet he knew held extra blankets. "Stop being a baby, Creed. I'm getting you more blankets."

Creed nodded, watching his cat's back ardently as he pulled the blankets up tighter around his shoulders. "You d-don't have to take care of me, T-Train. I… I don't deserve your k-kindness…"

"I've told you this before, Creed. I'm not a monster. I'm not going to let you freeze or get sick. Just shut up and let me tuck you in." His voice was a little annoyed as he spoke, but even he could hear the bit of playfulness he had hidden there.

Creed nodded, then frowned as his beloved returned and wrapped more blankets around him. "What a-about you, T-Train? A-aren't you s-still tired? Aren't y-you hung-over?"

Train laughed a little, then groaned at the pain it caused his head. He clutched it slightly, and shut his eyes, pausing his motions on the blankets as he tried to settle his own pain for a second. When he felt a cold hand reach out and rub his temple, Train jumped a little and opened his eyes, meeting Creed's concerned, loving blue ones as his former partner smiled fondly at him.

Creed reached out his other hand, which was still shaking, to massage his beloved's other temple as well. He felt his eyes closing slowly, but desperately wanted to provide his Kitten comfort before he fell asleep.

"Go d-drink water, T-Train and g-go back to s-sleep. You'll feel b-better after that. T-trust me…" Creed frowned, then opened his eyes dolefully to see his cat's stunning, golden ones once more, giving him an apologetic look. "S-sorry… I know you d-don't trust m-me…"

Train stared at Creed's mournful blue eyes, again not realizing he hadn't stopped his former lover's hands from touching him nor did he feel any anger from the silver man's words. Normally, when Creed said something like that or touched him in a loving way, he would remember what the swordsman did to him and become furious. However, right now he felt nothing by pity for Creed, once again smiling unknowingly at him as he felt a bit of his headache subsiding from the ex-assassin's gentle hands.

"Don't apologize, Creed. I actually think I owe you one for making you stay on the roof all night… You're definitely going to get sick."

Creed shot his eyes open and sat up, giving his beloved a panicked look as he spoke. "No! It's n-not your fault! I-it's mine. I s-should have just p-put you to bed…"

Train rolled his eyes, holding back the groan of pain the gesture caused his head. He tooked Creed's hands away from his head and placed them back on the bed, pushing the silver man down as well. "I know how stubborn I can be and I can't imagine how much worse that gets when I'm drunk. I know why you did what you did and I'm not mad at you. Just go back to sleep."

Creed gave him a sad look as Train tucked him in again. "B-but you n-need to-"

"-Yes, I know. I need to drink water and go to sleep. I'll do that right now, but first you need to go to sleep."

Creed smiled adoringly at his cat and nodded. "Y-yes, Train."

Again, the cat did not feel the smile on his lips as he watched Creed close his eyes. Train walked towards the door, glancing back one more time to make sure Creed was actually falling asleep then left the room quietly. Deciding to keep his promise to his former partner, Train walked into the kitchen and poured himself a glass of water. He downed it quickly, feeling his dehydrated body already craving more and poured himself another glass. Train leaned against the sink, looking out the window and watching the sun rise slowly.

His eyes fell to the side where a bench sat and noticed a book on the ground. Knowing how important Eve's books were to her, Train put his empty glass down and stepped outside to get it. As he leaned down to pick up the book, he frowned at the title.

'The Sun Also Rises?' Isn't this about unrequited love?

Train sighed and sat down on the bench, thumbing through the pages of the book, stopping at the back to read the description. He frowned at the parallelism he saw between him and Creed's relationship to that of the main characters.

There's no way this isn't a coincidence. Eve must have given it to him knowing how similar it sounds to our story. I guess she's trying to comfort him.

Deciding he wasn't ready to sleep yet, Train opened the book and began to read, enjoying the warmth the rising sun was gradually generating. As he sat, he didn't notice someone had approached from the side, watching him as he read quietly.

"Since when does the mighty Black Cat read romance novels?"

Train jumped and dropped the book, blushing brightly as he looked over at Lin who was holding a briefcase and a plastic bag. The cat sighed and rubbed his head, feeling the pain returning once more from the sudden arrival of the number.

"Oh, God, do you have to be so loud?! How are you not in as much pain as me?"

As drunk as Train was, he remembered their date from the other night and knew Lin had just as much to drink as he did. Going over the night in his head, he felt himself blush even brighter, remembering what happened and feeling his body get warm again over flashback.

Lin smirked and sat next to Train, moving his body as close to the other man as he could. "Because I can hold my liquor much better than you, Sweetness."

Train glanced at him in agitation, then placed his elbows on his knees so he could lean his head on his hands and rub his temples. "You were just trying to get me drunk…"

Lins shrugged his shoulders. "Not really. Just an added side effect of the night. Are you telling me you didn't have fun?"

Train saw Lin put his hand on his thigh, caressing it tenderly, making the warmth return to his body again. "...That's not what I meant."

Lin smirked and leaned forward so he could see Train's face, giggling at his crush's blush, happiness coursing through his body when he saw the evident red in his glorious, golden eyes. "So… You enjoyed yourself?"

Train watched as the man's hand slid up his thigh slowly, his agile fingers tracing his muscle delicately, making the cat swallow thickly. He sighed in frustration, but did not move Lin's hand. "I think you already know the answer to that…"

Lin beamed gleefully at the cat and placed the bag and briefcase on the ground, then used one of his hands to cup the Black Cat's chin in order to turn his head so they were facing each other. He smirked again as Train's face became even redder, his eyes still showing their excitement at the contact as the number massaged his skin fondly.

"Does that mean they'll be a round two in the future?"

Train blinked at him, not sure what to say. "I-I… I don't know. I don't want to lead you on…"

Lin made a frustrated noise and rolled his eyes. "I told you last night you're not leading me on. You've been very upfront with your feelings, but I also don't care. If all you want from me is sexual release, I will give that to you, no questions asked. My heart is my own concern."

However, that doesn't mean I won't try to win his over.

Seeing a small smile grace his crush's lips, Lin leaned forward and kissed him lightly, waiting to see what the cat's response was going to be before he tried to push it further. When he felt Train's hand cup his cheek gently, his thumb tenderly massaging his skin as his other fingers danced elegantly through his hair, Lin applied a little more pressure. Number X scooted himself close to the golden man, sliding one arm up his back and to Train's shoulder, the other taking a tight hold on the back of the cat's head so he could deepen the kiss.

Train moaned quietly when he felt Lin's tongue enter his mouth, his body reacting instinctively to the kiss, feeling himself getting worked up rather quickly. He allowed Lin to push him back slightly, so his back was leaning against the arm of the bench, giving the number a bit more leverage to do as he pleased to the gunman's mouth.

Train used his other hand to slide up Lin's back, dropping the book he held and pulling the short man onto his lap a little. Lin responded to Train's body eagerly, diving his tongue as deep into the Black Cat's mouth as he could, his hands beginning to wonder the golden man's body earnestly.

Train twirled his tongue around the other man's and purred at the contact. His head still hurt, but the kiss was helping him forget the pain and Lin's hands were already working magic against his chest. The cat felt his back arch slightly as the number traced his nipple, knowing this was going to get out of hand soon, but also not caring.

"You taste even better than in my dreams."

Train's eye shot open as Creed's voice slipped into his mind, confused why that happened, but able to push the memory aside in favor of the kiss he was receiving. Lin's hands were still exploring his chest just as lustfully as it did last night and Train was enjoying every second of it. He hissed when he felt the number bite his lip hungrily, moaning loudly as Lin sucked at it gently immediately after, then plunged his tongue back into the Black Cat's mouth, massaging every inch of Train's mouth that it could.

"I'm going to make you cry out, my dark Feline…I'm going to make you scream my name before the night is done. I will make you mine."

The cat pulled away from the kiss as Creed entered his thoughts once more, not sure why this kept happening. He looked away from Lin, just in case his eyes were showing some kind of emotion he didn't want the other man to see and tried to catch his breath.

Lin took a few gasps of air and frowned at the Black Cat. "What's wrong, Train? Are you not enjoying yourself?"

"Are you enjoying yourself, Train?"

Those words made Train sit up and push the man off him, his body still on fire from the kiss, but not willing to go any further right now since his ex-lover's voice kept entering his thoughts. "I-it's just my head. It still hurts from last night…"

Lin frowned at the cat, not sure he believed him, but not wanting to make Train uncomfortable. He sighed and moved off his crush, giving him one more kiss on the forehead before turning to the plastic bag he brought with him.

Train ran his fingers through his hair as Lin dug through his bags, trying to figure out why his mind kept wandering back to the first time Creed made love to him. There were a few times last night he made comparisons to Creed and Lin in his head, but nothing to the extent of what just happened.

What the hell was that about? Why did I keep hearing Creed's voice just now? Does it have anything to do with how we woke up this morning?

He glanced at Lin who was still rifling through some bags, humming happily as if nothing happened. Train frowned and sighed deeply, knowing he couldn't talk to the number about it. If Lin knew he woke up sleeping next to Creed on the roof, it would only hurt him.

And if he knew I was thinking about Creed just now, it might crush him…

While he still wasn't entirely sure of the other man's feelings for him, Train knew they went far beyond friendship and maybe even beyond just a simple crush.

Especially after last night…

"...What are you doing here, anyway? It's so early in the morning, how did you even know I'd be awake now?"

Lin turned to Train and handed him another bouquet of flowers, this one made entirely of red tulips as he smiled merrily at the cat. "I wasn't entirely sure you'd be awake, but I was hoping you might be. I know when I drink a lot, I end up waking up earlier than my body wants me to and I have a hard time falling back asleep. I was hoping I could help you fall back asleep."

Train blinked at the flowers, frowning as he remembered what Creed told them they represented

A declaration of love… Is he trying to tell me something?

The cat took them tentatively, then watched as the number turned back around to pull out something else. Before Train could say or do anything else, Lin was handing him a warm styrofoam container, followed quickly by a plastic fork. The cat watched as Lin pulled out another one for himself, gesturing for Train to open it.

"I also thought you might be hungry. You need to eat protein after the amount you drank last night."

Train blinked as Lin opened his container and began consuming his food. He turned back to his own, opening it to reveal a large omelette with potatoes on the side. Looking back at Lin, he felt a wave of guilt rise in him, understanding the man was trying to take care of him.

Just like Creed always does… Man, I really am just a jerk, aren't I?

He took a bite of his food bitterly, questioning again if he should tell Lin he woke up with Creed this morning. While he knew it might hurt, he also didn't want to lie to him. Especially knowing he could declare his love for the cat at any moment.

"Listen, Lin-"

"-Did you sleep well?"

Train sighed at the interruption. Lin did this last night as well when he thought Train was about to say something he didn't want to hear. "That's what I wanted to tell you. Last night, I-"

"-No. You don't have to tell me anything you think might hurt me. And I can tell by the tone of your voice it might, so just don't." He looked at the cat and smiled innocently. "I told you I will deal with my emotions on my own. You don't owe me anything. No matter what it is, if you think it'll hurt me, just don't tell me. I already knew I was in for heartbreak when you agreed to go out with me, so you don't have anything to feel guilty about."

The cat blinked at him in confusion. "But… Why? Why are you okay with getting hurt? Why are you okay with just having the physical aspect of a relationship? Why are you letting me hurt you?"

Lin shrugged his shoulders and caressed Train's cheek. "Because having any intimate contact with you is worth the pain. I would hurt more if you took it all away than if you just let me have you in one way."

Train watched as Lin took his hand away, continuing to eat his breakfast as he watched the sun rise slowly. "I don't get you…"

Lin giggled and leaned his head against Train's shoulder, cuddling close as he could while he took in the romantic view in front of them. "I don't expect you to. I don't get myself either. I just know when I'm with you, in whatever aspect that is, I'm happy. And I don't want that happiness to end. Even if you told me you made out with Creed when you came home last night, I don't care as long as I can still have you as I did after our date."

Train sighed, flinching a little at the pain still residing in his head. "Well, I can promise you that didn't happen."

Lin nodded against Train's shoulder and smiled. "Good. But again, it wouldn't stop how happy I am just sitting next to you, eating and watching the sun rise together."

The cat took a harsh bite of his breakfast, feeling even worse about himself when he realized how delicious it was. "You were right, by the way."

Lin looked up at him, but did not take his head away from Train's shoulder. "What do you mean, Sweetness?"

Train took another large bite of his omelette and spoke between bites of egg. "When you said I couldn't sleep? You were right. I wanted to, but my body doesn't want to. Why does that happen?"

Lin shrugged his shoulders and continued eating. "Not sure, but it happens to me almost every time I drink too much. Usually I have something to eat and stay up for a little longer, then I fall back asleep. That's why I brought you food. I'm hoping if I feed you, you'll be able to sleep."

Also, maybe it'll give me an inch towards your heart.

"Here's to hoping you're right." Train raised a forkful of food in the air as if cheersing with Lin, then ate it quickly, a cheeky smile on his lips.

Lin nodded and finished his food, closing the lid and putting it to the side as he looked at Train from the corner of his eyes. He really wanted to know one more thing before he addressed the other reason he came over so early in the morning.

"Did you look up the meaning of those flowers?"

Train looked at the number, then at the flowers and felt his heart drop again. "Actually, Creed told me…"

Lin felt a pang of pain twist his heart. "I see…"

I guess something did happen between them last night or this morning…

He shook his head, knowing again he didn't want to know. There was no way Train would have done anything more with Creed than what they did last night, so he therefore thought he was in the lead for the Black Cat's heart.

Creed won't be able to win him back that easily, if ever. Not after what he did.

Feeling better, he slid his arm around Train's and snuggled his face back into the cat's shoulder, sighing peacefully as he continued gazing at the sun.

And he won't share a moment like this with him again…

"I don't want it to scare you away, but I did want you to know how strongly I'm starting to feel. Again, there is no pressure on you. I just wanted to express myself a little, if that's okay…"

Train glanced down at the man, feeling an urge to comfort him a little and did so by patting his knee gently. "I have no control over what you do with your emotions. You don't have to ask me for permission to express them."

Lin giggled a little. "You don't know how much control you actually have…"

Train heard Lin's words and felt himself blush a little.

"If you're my best friend, Train, then I'm in love with my best friend and there's nothing in the world I would trade it for. There's nothing that can change my feelings. I've always loved you, Train, and I always will…no matter what."

The cat shook his head, instantly angry at himself for doing that as a wave of pain passed through him again. Lin saw this and frowned, reaching out to try and alleviate some of the pain with his hands, rubbing the gunman's temples delicately. However, that gesture only reminded him of how Creed just tried to comfort him as well, so he brushed the man's hands side, turning away from him slightly.

"I'm fine, you don't need to coddle me." Train closed the lid of his container and glanced on the ground to see the briefcase that rested there. "What's in there?"

Lin was frowning from his crush asking not to touch him, but then remembered the other reason he came over and reached for the luggage.

"Thank you for reminding me, Sweetness. The documents you came for last night are in there. Based on the amount you drank, I had a feeling those pictures you took didn't come out right. And we became too… preoccupied with each other to read them, so I decided to bring them over so we could read them today."

Train felt himself blush, knowing what the man meant when he said they were 'preoccupied' and frowned a little. "I thought you said I would owe you another date to get those a second time…"

Lin smiled brightly. "Are you agreeing to another date?"

Train made a strange sound and scratched his head. "Not… exactly…"

"Then are you saying no?"

Train sighed. "Also… Not exactly. Just, focus on something else will you? I thought you didn't trust taking them out of your hotel room?"

Lin smiled sweetly and nodded. "That's right, but they're locked up tight in here and I keep the key right here." He patted his breast pocket, still smiling at his crush. "And I'll let you have it for just one little kiss."

Train gave him a strange look. "Seriously?"

Lin winked at him. "Yes."

The Black Cat narrowed his eyes and tried to reach for the key. Lin moved his arm swiftly away, smirking wildly at the cat as he moved his arm again when the gunman made another grab for it.

Train sighed and rubbed his face. "Was that kiss when you first got here not enough?"

Lin shook his head. "Nope! I want something sweeter."

Train glared at him again and made another grab for the keys, feeling himself smirk a little despite his annoyance as the number moved his hand away again. A part of Train actually enjoying the teasing Number X was showing him so he couldn't help the smirk he was giving Lin. When he tried to grab them again, Train instead reached for the man's neck and pulled him close. Before Lin knew what was happening, Train kissed his lips gently, pulling away far too quickly for the number's taste.

Lin frowned at him in disappointment. "Is that all the Black Cat has to offer? I was expecting more..."

Train glowered at him. "I gave you more when you first sat down and you said that's not what you wanted!"

Lin smiled widely. "That's right. I said I wanted something sweeter, not shorter." He dangled the key a little in front of the golden man's face, trying to use it as bait to get what he wanted from the cat. "Come on, Black Cat. So me what you've got."

Train eyed the key and then Lin, smiling mischievously as his competitive and playful side came out rather suddenly. Lin must have understood him well to know that teasing him this way would work.

Train wrapped his arm around Lin's back, pulling him closer once more as his other hand fell to the back of the number's head. The gunman pressed his lips against Lin's, drinking the life out of the number in an instant. Lin felt himself gasp delightfully as Train's lips met his own, his body reacting immediately to the embrace as he tangled his hands in the golden man's chocolate locks. He leaned into the kiss, reveling in the feel of the Black Cat kissing his breath away, but in a very supple, luscious way. It was far more tame than the kiss they shared earlier, which is exactly what Lin wanted.

If I can get more kisses like this instead of a sexual way, then I might be able to slither my way into his heart.

When Train pulled away, Lin looked dazedly into the cat's eyes, feeling his heart racing rapidly against his chest at the glossy look in those captivating, amber orbs that belonged to the Black Cat. The number smiled and caressed the gunman's cheek, feeling himself getting lost in the other man's eyes. Lin felt himself whine a little when he saw Train dangle the keys in front of his face, realizing he wasn't going to be able to use that to get another kiss.

Despite his disappointment, he smirked as he continued rubbing the other man's cheek. "Not bad, Black Cat…"

"I never doubted you had skills, Black Cat…and, don't worry, they'll develop more in time. But you've had your fun, now it's my turn."

Train pulled away quickly, releasing his hold on Lin as he stood up from the bench, getting more and more frustrated with himself for continuing to think about that night he shared with Creed over a year ago. He could already feel his anger starting to rise again as his mind began to remind him of the night he left the swordsman, his heart aching once more at the terrible memory.

"J-just bring the papers inside. We can look at it on the dining room table."

Train left quickly, not bothering to look back to see if Lin was following him as he stepped into the kitchen. He walked over to the sink again, re-filling the glass he left there and downing another glass of water. A hand suddenly appeared in his vision as Lin offered him two pink pills, the short man refusing to let go of that sweet smile he always reserved special for Train.

"It's advil. It should help with the headache."

Train nodded and took them quickly, swallowing them dry then pouring himself another glass. He set the empty glass back down, still avoiding making eye contact with Lin as he stepped out into the dining area. The cat gestured for Lin to sit as he walked down the hall towards the bathroom.

"You can go ahead and pull them out. I need to use the bathroom real quick."

Lin watched him walk away and sighed sadly. He could tell there was something more going on with Train than he let on and he couldn't help but think it had something to do with Creed.

When I made the joke about them making out his reaction was unsettling. While that might not have been what happened, it sounds like something else did happen…

Deciding to push the thought aside, Lin placed the briefcase on the table and waited for Train to return. He had a feeling the cat forgot he had taken the key with him, so there wasn't much else he could do until the gunman came back. His ears perked when he heard a door open and close again, thinking that meant Train had come back. Feeling his hopes get up, Lin looked down the hall, hoping to see his crush approach, surprised that he actually missed him when he had only been gone a few seconds then frowned at who he saw.

"Oh… Good morning, Creed…"

Creed stopped his steps as he weakly glared at the number, leaning his hand against the wall for support since he was beginning to realize he must have gotten sick from spending the night on the roof with his beloved.

"What are you doing here?" Creed didn't bother to hide the anger in his voice since he didn't see Train anywhere.

Lin smirked. "I came to bring Train breakfast."

He made sure his eyes stayed down the hallway just in case Train came back. He was hoping he could get Creed to say something he knew the cat wouldn't like, wanting to make sure to drive the two of them apart even further.

Creed eyed the briefcase, then coughed as he leaned his whole body against the wall. "Train's asleep. He wasn't feeling too well last night after you got him drunk."

Lin shrugged his shoulders. "He could have said no. To that and to other things that happened last night." He looked the man up and down in disgust. "What happened to you? You aren't looking very healthy yourself."

Creed glowered at him, his heart begging to know what he meant by the first part of his statement, but refusing to give into that side since he knew it wasn't any of his business. Instead, he decided to focus on Lin's question.

"I spent the night outside. Might have gotten a cold from it."

Lin looked surprised, but also slightly happy. "Did Train kick you out?"

Creed felt himself growl, then coughed again. "No. I was on the roof and when Train came home he joined me to see if I was okay. He ended up passing out because he was so drunk and I stayed with him to keep him warm."

Lin felt his heart drop to his feet, knowing now that's what Train wanted to tell him but he wouldn't allow him. "Oh… I see. Why didn't you just bring him down and to his room? Do you want him that badly that you'll take advantage of his drunken state?"

"No!" Creed said a bit too loudly than he intended. "I tried to wake him up, but he refused to move. I was also exhausted and didn't feel safe bringing us both down without hurting him. I was just keeping him warm…"

Lin rolled his eyes and turned away. "At least I kept him warm in a different way…"

Again, Creed wanted to push for more information, but he reminded himself once more that it was none of his business. Lin was clearly trying to get under his skin and he wasn't going to let it work.

Not to mention knowing what happened would only make the pain worse… And I don't have a keyboard yet to take my pain out on. Train promised he'd get me one and I believe him, so I need to just and hold on until then.

Giving the number one last glare, Creed pushed himself off the wall and down the hall, continuing his journey into the kitchen. "I don't even know why I'm talking to you. I don't owe you an explanation. Just leave so Train can sleep."

"Train's already awake." Lin added as he glanced back down the hall, watching as Creed stopped once again.

"What do you mean? How do you know that?" Creed stopped again and looked at the number.

Lin rolled his eyes. "How do you think I got in here? I didn't just break in to stalk him. I'm not you."

Creed felt the last bit of his patience leave him and was about to yell at the number when he heard the man they were fighting over come from behind him.

"Creed? What are you doing up?"

The silver man glanced over his shoulder at his beloved, smiling adoringly at his beautiful face. "I'm not feeling well, so I got up to make myself some tea and get some medicine. You were right, Train. I think spending the night on the roof gave me a cold…"

Creed made sure to steal a look from Lin when he said this, hoping the man understood he did in fact spend the night with Train. Even if it was purely for warmth.

He smirked at the number's growl, then looked back to Train. "I'll go back to bed soon, Train. Just let me get those things first."

Train frowned at him then shook his head. "No. Go to bed. I'll bring them to you myself."

Creed smiled warmly. "Thank you, Train, but I see you have company. I don't want to disturb you any more than I already have. I can do it."

Sighing, the cat watched as Creed continued walking down the hall and into the dining room where Lin sat. He could tell the number was not happy Creed was interrupting them, but he also knew he didn't really care. Train was still blaming himself for getting Creed sick and he wanted to make up for that.

He followed his ex-partner into the kitchen, taking the mug from his hand and turning to the stove to boil some water. "Stop being stubborn and go back to bed. I'll bring this along with some medicine in a minute."

Creed smiled blissfully as he watched his Kitten move to another cabinet to get a bag of tea. "Thank you, Train."

Lin, not liking the loving moment they were sharing or the look of concern Train had in his eyes, decided to step in. He stood and entered the kitchen, approaching Train quickly as he put his hands on the cat's shoulders. Number X spun the Black Cat around rapidly, pulling him down slightly so he could give him a kiss on the lips. Train felt his eye widen at the contact, looking down at Lin, then at Creed who looked as if he had just seen a murder.

Train felt his face get hot as Lin pulled him a little closer so he could deepen the kiss. He wasn't sure what to do since he knew letting the kiss continue would hurt Creed, but pulling away would hurt Lin. He didn't want to hurt either of them, so instead he stayed frozen, not responding to the kiss, but also not pulling away as he continued looking between the two men who seemed intent on putting him in awkward situations.

When the number finally ended the kiss, he smiled happily at Train, patting his cheek tenderly as he turned back around to take his seat again. He made sure he give Creed a cocky look, knowing he just did something the silver man was not allowed to do and was more than willing to remind him of it. When he sat back down, he rested his head on his hands, waiting to see what both of their reactions were going to be.

Creed felt his whole body get cold and he knew it wasn't from his growing sickness. He also felt like throwing up, which he also knew was due to what he just witnessed instead of his deteriorating health. He stared at his beloved's face, seeing the redness on his cheeks and the hint of reddish-orange in his eyes and felt his heart shatter to the floor, knowing there was at least a part of his beloved that enjoyed it. Despite this, Creed managed a smile, fighting back tears and another cough as he addressed his beloved kindly.

"I-I'm happy to see you two had fun last night…"

Lin smirked. "We most certainly did."

Creed was still dying to know what the number meant by that, but based on what he just saw he knew it was a bad idea to ask. He would only make the situation more awkward than it already was and cause himself even more pain that he was in. Creed turned on his heels, ready to leave, but also not wanting to let Train see the agony in his eyes.

"I-I'll leave you two alone… Don't worry about the tea, Train. I'll get it later."

He coughed and stepped out of the kitchen, but felt himself stopped by Train's strong hand. Creed felt himself melt at the touch, but refused to turn around. He knew if he did he would see those mesmerizing golden irises and wouldn't be able to control himself.

"Creed… Just wait a minute. The water's almost done. You can take it with you."

Creed felt his whole body flare with a loving warmth at the soothing tone his cat used and smiled, nodding his head slowly as he let out another quiet cough. "Okay, Train…"

He allowed his beloved to lead him to a chair opposite Lin, knowing the two wouldn't want to sit next to each other after that. Train stepped back into the kitchen to finish the tea and Creed refused to look at Lin. He knew the man was staring daggers at him since it was clear from Train's tone of voice he was being overly kind to him. While Creed knew it didn't mean anything than a friend showing concern for another friend, he wasn't so sure Lin was convinced.

Creed glanced at him quickly as he spoke. "It means nothing, Lin. Train will never be mine again…"

Lin gave him an uneasy look, his voice layered in skepticism as he spoke. "As long as you know that…"

Before their conversation could continue, Train had returned with a mug of tea, placing it in front of Creed who took it gratefully.

"Thank you, Train… You don't have to treat me so kindly… Especially when you have a guest over."

Train smiled cordially at him, squeezing his shoulder reverently as he spoke. "It's fine, Creed. Lin understands. Don't you Lin?"

Train looked at the number who seemed to be trying to set Creed on fire with his eyes. When he heard Train address him, he jumped a little and smiled sweetly at the cat.

"Yes, Train. I understand you're taking care of a friend. You're very thoughtful."

Creed couldn't help but enjoy the jealousy Lin was showing, even though he knew it was unwarranted. As he said before, Train would never be his again so Number X really had nothing to worry about. Still, that wasn't going to stop him from pretending for a minute.

"Train is always this thoughtful. He even tucked me in this morning so I wouldn't be cold. It's only been a few hours, but he's been taking very good care of me."

The cat blushed at Creed's statement, but did not realize this change in color as he stepped back into the kitchen to clean up the pot he just used. He also needed to walk away from the men for a minute. The tension in the room was beginning to be too much for him and he needed a quick time out.

Lin watched as Creed took a proud sip of tea, then glared at him as he spoke loud enough for Train to hear. "Well, it's a good thing I took care of him this morning…" He leaned forward with his next words, making sure to whisper them so Creed could hear by Train did not. "...And I'm not just talking about the breakfast I brought him…"

Creed glared at the man, refusing to show his sadness to Number X as he heard Train yelp as he dropped the pot, then curse quietly at his clumsiness. He saw Lin smile and he knew he was smiling as well, both of them enjoying the cuteness they knew Train was exhibiting even though neither of them could see him. This did not change their angry looks, however. If anything, both of them hastened their stare since they were both reminded of how much they adored the man they were quietly fighting over.

When Train returned, he saw the men glowering at each other and sighed, not wanting to get caught up in their argument even though he knew he was the source of it. He turned and walked down the hallway, ignoring the men as he made his way to the bathroom again.

"Let me get you that medicine you were talking about, Creed. I'll be right back. Try not to kill each other while I'm gone."

"No promises…" Lin said, even though he had never actually killed anyone and he knew Creed was once a skilled assassin.

Creed glanced at Train as he felt, then turned back to Lin, noticing the briefcase on the table. "What's that?"

Lin put his hand on the luggage, as if protecting it from the man. "I guess Train didn't tell you much about last night. He didn't get a chance to look at the documents. He was too busy with me…"

Creed balled his hand into a fist. "He took pictures…"

He knew those pictures didn't come out due to his drunken state, but he didn't want to tell Lin that. He wanted the man to think Train actually did tell him about their date, mostly because he didn't want Lin to begin going into too much detail.

Number X smirked victoriously, knowing from Creed's tone of voice that he did not know what happened between them that night. "Yes, but we were having so much fun they didn't come out. You know how it is, right?"

Creed didn't say anything. He looked down the hall where his beloved had gone, praying he would be back soon. It had only been a few seconds, but Creed found himself already losing his patience with the number. He needed Train to be a buffer before he said something he was going to regret.

"Tell me, Creed. The first time you slept with Train, were you the top, or the bottom?"

Creed looked at him quickly, his face getting paler as his heart dropped to the floor. "WH-HAT?!"

Did they have sex?! That quickly?!

Lin laughed at the swordsman's reaction, brushing away his fears. "We didn't go that far, yet. I just wanted to know what I should prepare myself for when we reach that level of intimacy..." He leaned forward again, enjoying watching the other man squirm. "So tell me… How is he? What does it feel like to bed the Black Cat?"

Creed's face turned a bright shade of red from both anger and embarrassment, clenching both of his fists tightly. "That's none of your business…."

Lin chuckled and tucked his hair behind his head. "Oh… But it will be soon…"

If looks could kill, Lin would have been dead ten times over. However, even Creed was surprised with himself at how well he was controlling his emotions. Even four months ago, this might have turned into an actual fight. But now, Creed was able to control his violent urges, shocked that he hadn't even felt a shadow of his old self come out.

Still, I can't wait until Train gets me a keyboard. I need to let these feelings out on it.

The silver man took a deep breath, then smiled at the number. "Well, good luck with that. As I said, Train is no longer mine. As much as I wish he was, that is not the case anymore. I... I just hope you make him happy…" Creed looked at his tea, smiling sadly as held back a sob. "...Also, treat him well. Better than I did. Don't break any promises to him and never lie. He… He doesn't like it when people lie to him."

Lin watched the silver man in bewilderment. This was not the reaction he was expecting and he wasn't sure how to handle it. He thought Creed would have completely lost control and Train would see it and be reminded of what a monster the man was. However, Creed was not only remaining calm, but also wishing him and Train all the best. He was even giving Lin advice on how to make Train happy, as if that was all Creed wanted for Train.

That's… Odd, but sweet. I guess he really is calming down.

Lin made sure to make a mental note of this moment. He couldn't forget that Creed was still his mission and seeing how gracefully he was accepting the possibility of Train moving on with someone else was a big sign of his improvement. He was starting to think Creed wasn't going to be a threat against Chronos after all.

That means I need to work harder to win Train over. If Creed isn't a threat to Chronos, that means I'll have to leave and won't be able to see Train again unless something else requires me to come back.

Lin knew if he could get Train to love him, that meant the Black Cat would want him to be around and he wouldn't need an excuse to follow the gunman. That was the bigger goal for him, after all. While keeping an eye on Creed was Chronos' objection, winning Train's affections was his number one priority.

Train finally emerged from the bathroom, medicine in hand as he took a seat between Creed and Lin. He handed his former lover the bottle, smiling cheekily as he eyed the man.

"Sorry it took so long. Couldn't find it. Ended up tearing the whole bathroom apart." He glanced down the hall to Sven's room. "The old man is going to be pissed when he sees the state I left it in."

Creed giggled at his love and took the bottle. "Why didn't you clean it up?"

Train gave him a stubborn look. "That sounds like a waste of time since Eve will just say I put everything back in the wrong place. You know how she likes to organize."

Creed chuckled again as he poured the contents of the bottle into the cup it came with. "What makes you think Eve organized it?"

Train blinked at him. "Did you organize it?"

Creed nodded as he drank the medicine. "Yes. Don't you remember how organized I was when we were in the Apostles? Even at Chronos when I was at my worst I always made sure things were in order. I don't know how you all found anything before I started traveling with you."

Train laughed and patted the man's back. "That's right! Mr. OCD! I can't believe I did realize it sooner. The level of meticulous organization in that room should have been a dead giveaway to me."

Creed rolled his eyes and sipped his tea. "You shouldn't joke about OCD, Train. It's a serious condition. Besides, cleaning and organizing is a practice, n-"

"-Not a project. I get it, Creed. I get it. Jeez, get a sense of humor."

Creed gave him a teasing glare as he took another sip of tea. "I'll get a sense of humor when you pick up a broom."

"Never!" Train yelled as he flicked the man's forehead playfully, snickering at the angry look Creed gave him. Creed returned his love's gesture with a flick of his own, but making sure to aim for his beloved's shoulder since he didn't want to hurt his head.

Lin growled quietly, not liking the borderline flirtatious interaction the two ex-lovers were having and decided to put an end to it. He scooted his chair close to Train, leaning against the cat's body as he wrapped one arm around his elbow, the other resting possessively on his knee. He gave him a kiss on the cheek, then rested his head on Train's shoulder as he made eye contact with the ex-Apostles leader.

"Don't worry, Creed. If we keep moving our relationship along as we have been, he'll never have to clean again."

Train glanced at the number, feeling his face go red from the kiss, but frowning at the mention of him saying they were in a relationship. He wanted to correct the man, but didn't think that was appropriate to do in front of Creed. Instead, he decided to let it go, making a mental note to bring that up with him later.

When Lin snuggled closer, it jostled Train a little and he gripped his head, shutting his eyes from the pain the number inadvertently caused him.

Creed felt his heart sink at Lin's confirmation of his relationship status with his beloved, then frowned at the face Train made, wanting to make sure his cat was okay. "How's your head? Why didn't you go back to sleep like I asked?"

Train leaned back in his chair. "My head is getting better. Lin brought my breakfast which helped a lot. And I didn't go back to bed because I couldn't and he brought over these documents I messed up getting pictures of last night. We were going to go over them now." He stopped his sentence, thinking about what he said and addressed Creed again. "Why don't you stay up for a little longer and read through them with us? We wanted to look over them together after all, remember?"

"No." Lin said, glaring at Creed. "We're finishing our date. We don't need a third wheel."

Train rolled his eyes, grimacing only a little from the pain it caused. "No, we're not. The date is over. You just brought me breakfast and the documents. That's all."

Lin pouted at the cat, clinging to him a little tighter. "Then this is our second date. We've already shared a passionate kiss, had a meal together, and watched the sun rise. That's definitely the recipe for a date."

Creed froze when he heard the part about the kiss, looking down at his tea again, hoping Train didn't see the crushed look in his eyes. "L-Lin's right, Train. I can't interrupt your date. I'll just go back to bed…"

Train put his hand on Creed's shoulder to prevent him from leaving. "Creed. We're not on a second date. Don't listen to Lin, listen to me."

Lin glared at Creed, pulling Train back so he was close to his own body. "Fine. Let's just go through these papers and we'll set a day for our next date."

Creed waited for Train to turn the idea down and almost started crying when he saw that did not happen. The silver man nodded sadly as he looked at his beloved gratefully. "That sounds good, Train."

Train smiled and pulled out the key he had to kiss Lin for. Number X smirked as he unlocked the briefcase, not wanting to give up another chance to remind Creed what was starting to form between him and the Black Cat.

"I'm glad to see you didn't lose the key. You worked hard to get it from me."

Train blushed when Lin gave him another kiss on the cheek, glancing and Creed quickly and frowning when he saw the sad look on his ex-partner's face.

"Lin… How about you cool it in front of Creed? It's not right…"

Creed gave his cat a thankful look, then looked at Lin who was pouting dejectedly at the gunman. Lin sighed and nodded his head but did not pull away from the cat. Instead, he snuggled his face a little closer, burying his head into Train's arm as he sighed happily. He did that for himself, not Creed.

The Black Cat sighed and opened the briefcase, grabbing a pile of papers and handing them out to the men on either side of him. Creed took his with a smile, Lin using one hand to take the papers, the other remaining around the gunman's arm. Train pulled out a stack for himself, ignoring Number X as he leaned against him since he refused to ruin the closeness they were experiencing. What confused Train more was the fact that he didn't mind the contact. He wasn't sure if he enjoyed it yet, but it at least didn't bother him as much as it used to.

Well, when someone performs certain… intimate acts on you, it makes hand holding seem very tame.

That's exactly what Lin started to do with him now. He slipped his arm from around Train's elbow to his hand, tangling their fingers together. The cat glanced at Creed to see if he noticed and frowned when he realized he couldn't tell. Creed was either going out of his way to ignore their interaction or didn't know what they were doing. Deciding he didn't mind Lin's actions and feeling like he owed the guy something that wasn't purely erotic, Train wrapped his fingers around the number's as well, feeling a small bit of warmth enter his heart when he heard Lin make a happy noise and lean agaist him.

The number glanced up at him, his head still resting on his shoulder as he smiled into those golden eyes he was falling harder for every day. "Thank you, Train."

The cat didn't look back down at him, but nodded in response, happy he whispered his gratitude so Creed wouldn't hear.

I know he wants Creed to know what's been happening between us, but it's not right. There's no reason to hurt him needlessly.

As they looked through the papers, Train made sure to look at Creed every so often, just to make sure he wasn't aware of his and Lin's affection gesture, making his glances more frequent when the number began rubbing his thumb against his hand. He let out a quiet breath of air when he saw Creed didn't seem bothered, which meant he probably wasn't aware of what was going on under the table.

Why do I care if he sees anyway? I know I don't want to hurt him, but if something more does happen between me and Lin, I can't hide it from Creed forever and he can't expect me to. Besides, he said he'd be happy for me if I found happiness with someone else. I shouldn't let his feelings bother me.

Train flipped through a few more pages, trying to imagine what being in a relationship with Lin might be like. He knew Number X wanted that more than anything, so he figured he may as well entertain the thought to see how it made him feel. He already knew he was physically attracted to the man, but now he needed to search his heart to see if he felt anything beyond that.

I guess… Maybe a little? We definitely get along and I feel comfortable around him. It's just… I don't know, I can't put my finger on it. There's something missing that I can't quite place. Something that's holding me back from fully exploring these feelings.

What was throwing him off the most was whatever he felt for Lin was nowhere near what he felt for Creed when they were running the Apostles together. What he had with Creed was at such an intense level of love that he didn't think he could recreate it with anyone else, no matter how hard he tried. The sexual contact he had with Lin so far was amazing, but even that still wasn't the same as with Creed. It was beginning to get on his nerves since he really wanted to move on and he knew dwelling on his past relationship wasn't going to let that happen.

That should be a sign that I'm just not ready for anything serious which is what I already told Lin. He's just so dedicated to the idea and I really don't want to hurt him. I also know it's not fair to keep comparing him to Creed… And I don't know why I keep doing that.

Traird heard Creed cough and looked over at his ex-partner and noticed he was starting to look paler than usual, his eyes shutting and opening constantly, as if he was having a hard time staying awake. The gunman frowned and reached out to shake Creed's shoulder slightly.

"Creed, I think you should just go to bed. Maybe reading through these right now wasn't such a good idea. I'm feeling pretty tired myself."

Creed blinked at his beloved, smiling lovingly at his hand then into his eyes as he shook his head. "No. This is important, Train. I'm fine. I'm not going to let you go through these alone."

"Who says he's alone?" Lin's voice was annoyed as he spoke to the swordsman, but did not turn to look at him.

Creed frowned, then sighed sadly. "Sorry… I didn't mean it that way…"

Train gave Lin a warning looking who ignored it as he continued looking through the papers. "Just go to bed, Creed. Train and I can look through these alone and we'll let you know if anything important pops up. From what I've already read, it just looks like information on low grade weapons. Nothing too important."

Creed growled quietly at the number, then coughed and groaned at the pain it was starting to cause his throat. "Maybe you're right… I can't even remember what I just read let alone keep my eyes open…"

Train sighed and stood from his chair, letting go of Lin's hand who tried desperately to hang onto it. He glanced at the number who was pouting sadly at him. "Lin, lock these away again while Creed and I get some rest. I'll reach out to you later when we're ready to read over them again."

Before Lin could protest, Train turned to Creed, reaching out to help him stand. "Let me help you get to bed, Creed. It doesn't look like you can stand for long let alone walk."

Creed blinked at the hand his beloved offered him, glanced at Lin to see his furious face, then up into those amber orbs he was absolutely obsessed with and smiled.

"Thank you, Train…"

You're too kind to me…

Creed took the hand offered to him eagerly, leaning his body against his cat as they walked back down the hall and to his room. When they reached his room, he let his love lead him to the bed again, laying him down as he did not long ago, tucking him in gently as he smiled unknowingly at the silver man. Creed felt his heart leap at the look his Kitten was giving him, since it almost resembled the same look Train gave him when they were together.

Don't get your hopes up again, Creed. Remember, he'll never love you again. He's made that very clear. Don't think into this. He's just being a good friend.

Still, he couldn't help but notice how differently his beloved acted around him as opposed to Lin just now. He was more stern with the number than with him and the interaction he had with his cat was far more flirtatious which he knew Lin noticed as well. Creed could tell by the look on the number's face that he was jealous of how affable Train was acting towards him and the swordsman was beyond happy to have his beloved's kindness grace his heart again.

But that's all it is. He's being nice. He feels like it's his fault I'm sick and he feels guilty. He's always been that way. This is nothing more than that. As for the way we talk to each other… It's hard to ignore the intense chemistry we have. Whether Train recognizes it or not, there's no getting around that. We just click better than any other two people in the world.

He knew that was true. The chemistry he had with his Kitten was something he tried to recreate with other people and he just couldn't. This is what made Creed believe they were meant to be together in the first place and why they worked so well both inside and outside of a romantic relationship. Watching his love try to form that same chemistry with someone else was painful, but also reassuring. It just reminded Creed how, despite how angry Train was with him, despite how much his love hated him and didn't trust him, they had a bond like no other.

A bond that I ruined and will never be able to have again, but a bond nonetheless. That's why I'm destined to be alone for the rest of my life… I will never be able to recreate what I had with Train with someone else… And I need to accept that.

Still, seeing that look Train was giving him as he finished tucking him in gave a little bit of life to his dead heart. He had a feeling Train didn't know how he was looking at him since he didn't seem bothered by the closeness they shared as he pulled the blankets over Creed. The silver man sighed happily, coughing lightly as he gazed into his love's eyes, noting they had changed to a bright orange which meant he was happy. He fought the urge to read into his love's emotional state along with the longing to reach out and caress his cheek.

"I don't deserve your kindness, Train… Not after what I did to you…"

Train had a feeling Creed took a bit too much cold medicine since his ex-lover rarely talked to him with that loving tone, especially after he asked him to stop reminding him of the past. However, what surprised him more was the fact that he didn't feel as angry as he normally did when the man brought up what he did to him. There was something about seeing Creed so pathetically sick that made it impossible for the Black Cat to feel anything but sympathy.

I can't be mad at someone who looks so weak. I can also tell how true he thinks those words are. He really believes I should still be treating him like garbage, but I won't. It's not right. He's still a human after all.

Train smiled soothingly at him. "Ich habe dir gesagt, ich bin kein Monster, Creed." (3)

Creed returned his smile, snuggling into the warm bed as he memorized his beloved's smile, just in case he never saw it again. "Aber ich bin Müll. Ich verdiene die Gnaden eines Engels wie dir nicht."

Train felt a bit of the warmth Creed used to make him feel return briefly, but was able to push it aside almost as fast as it had arrived. The cat shook his head then walked towards the door, deciding to ignore that moment in favor of getting himself to sleep. Before he left, he felt the urge to turn around again and make sure Creed was falling asleep okay. He wasn't sure he felt the need to do that after the second time he tucked him in, but he did. It wasn't until the silver man was mumble sweet nothings about him did leave. He was able to hear his ex-lover whisper one more thing before he left and he chuckled lightly at it.

"I love you so much, Train… Thank you for giving me a second chance…"

The cat closed the door slightly, yawning as he walked down the hallway. He glanced in the kitchen and noticed Lin had cleaned up the papers as Train asked him to and was nowhere to be seen. He frowned a little, feeling a bit guilty for not saying bye to the man especially when he was acting rather coldly to him before he left.

Strange that he would leave without saying goodbye. He must be mad. I'll have to reach out to him later to apologize.

The cat opened the door to his room and stopped when he saw Lin laying there, cuddled the blankets as if it was completely normal for him to be there.

"What? You didn't think I'd leave without saying goodbye, did you?"

Train rolled his eyes, gripping his head slightly from the pain the gesture caused. "What are you doing, Lin?"

The number frowned. "So you're fine with tucking Creed in, but you don't want me to tuck you in?"

Train sighed and rubbed his head. "No… That's not… Ugh! Why do I feel like I can never win with you?!"

Lin smirked deviously at him. "Because you can't." The number pulled the blankets away, revealing he was shirtless as he left the bed and approached the cat.

Train felt his body get hot as the man walked over to him, his eyes suddenly not able to focus on Lin's face as he got closer to the gunman. Number X noticed this with a perverted gleam in his eyes and ran his hands up Train's stomach and to his chest, finally landing on each of his cheeks, guiding the cat's eyes so they met his. The shorter man giggled when he saw they were an intense red, most likely signalling he was turned on and decided to take advantage of his crush's inability to hide his emotions.

Lin ran his fingers through Train's hair, leaning forward so he could brush his lips against the cat's as he spoke. "So you should just let me win this one time…"

The number pressed his lips against Train's, moaning when he felt the cat wrap his arms around his waist to pull him close. Lin deepened the kiss immediately, pulling the gunman lower so he had better access to his mouth and smiled when he felt Train's tongue rub against his own. He slowly started to make his way over to Train's bed, allowing his knees to hit the mattress and his body to fall backwards. He pulled Train with him, making sure their lips didn't separate as he crawled backwards on the bed, making sure the cat came with him.

Train's whole body was on fire as he kissed Lin, not realizing when they reached the bed or when Lin pulled him to the middle. He was concentrating on the heat boiling inside of him, knowing all too well what this sensation was and not wanting it to end. To him, it didn't matter who was giving him this feeling, as long as it kept going. When he felt Lin's finger slide under his shirt again and glide across his skin, he moaned gratefully, pressing his lips harder into the other man, twirling his tongue around the number's rapidly as he slowly began to lose control of himself.

Lin was in heaven having Train on top of him, kissing him as deeply and passionately as he was, his entire body feeling ready to explode just from the Black Cat's kiss. He didn't think anything could feel this good, but when Train pulled away and began going at his neck, he soon found out he was wrong. The golden man began sucking and kissing his neck vigorously, his lower body gyrating unknowingly against Lin's as he began to give in more and more to his animalistic instincts.

Number X gasped loudly when Train pushed down onto his lower body, knowing he didn't mean to do it, but relishing in the feeling despite that. Lin grabbed the cat's hips and thrust his lower body up into him, smirking at the loud moan Train let out. The number held on tighter to his crush, thrusting his hips up again and again, feeling himself getting harder and harder with each passing second as Train nibbled and sucked on his neck violently.

When the cat bit down on his neck, Lin cried out loudly, pushing his lower body up harshly into Train again, earning him another sexy gasp. He suddenly felt Train's hand moving up his stomach and to his chest making the number hiss seductively as the Black Cat paused at his nipples, circling them slightly before pinching them delicately.

"Oh, Train…" He moaned, gasping again when the golden man brushed his thumbs across both his nipples, making the number grip his crush's hips even tighter. "Oh, God, it feels so good…"

Train didn't respond, but Lin didn't care. As long as the cat he kept touching and kissing him like his, it was enough for him. However, he was getting sick of seeing the man with his shirt on and finally decided to fix that problem. Lin pulled Train away and flipped him over so he was now on top, gripping the bottom of the cat's shirt as he pulled it up over his head. The number felt his breath catch when he laid eyes on Train's masucline physique, not noticing as a bit of drool felt his mouth.

Lin groaned as he traced a finger up Train's stomach and to his chest, sighing feverishly as the man he desired more than anything else shivered in delight at the contact. The number lowered his head so his lips brushed against Train's ear, whispering seductively to the golden man.

"Absolutely exquisite…" Lin kissed his ear, then his neck, then his shoulder, pausing when he got to his chest so he could play around there for a little bit. "But, I guess I wouldn't expect anything else from the Black Cat."

Train's eyes were shut as the number began working at his chest, enjoying the feel of the man's tongue gliding across his skin until Lin's works triggered another memory in his head.

"Exquisite… Sexy… Hot… All these things describe you, and yet…do not. Nothing can quite describe you, Train. Even 'perfect' is an imperfect word to use for your beauty."

The cat's eyes shot open as he Creed's words played through his head. Train then grabbed Lin's shoulders and pushed him away, rolling so his back was facing the number as he wrapped his arms around himself, trying to rid himself of the memory that seemed intent on haunting him.

"We shouldn't move this fast, Lin. Besides, I'm tired." Train spoke quickly, pulling the blankets over his shoulder as if emphasising he was going to sleep. "You should leave. I'll send you a message later when we're ready to read those files."

Lin looked at Train, pushing aside the perverted thoughts he got while looking at his crush's muscular back as he frowned and sighed deeply. "Train… Seriously? I know you were enjoying yourself and now you just want to 'take it slow'? That's a bullshit excuse and you know it."

Train shrugged his shoulders. "My head still hurts. I need to sleep."

Lin growled in frustration and grabbed the cat's shoulder, turning him around and crawling on top of him once more. The number trailed his fingers lightly against Train's stomach and chest again, leaning forward to give the cat another deep kiss. He felt the gunman return the kiss and sighed in relief. He knew Train wanted this. He didn't understand why he kept stopping him or why he was giving him such lame excuses.

When he pulled away, he looked into Train's eyes, seeing the bright red there and smiled. "How do you expect me to just leave after I've seen how beautiful your body is?"

Lin attacked his lips again, a bit more zealously this time as his hands wandered the man's body once more. Train moaned at the contact, plunging his tongue deep into the numbers mouth again, immediately forgetting why he stopped him in the first place and trying to forget the words Creed used on him during their first night together. He hoped that if he lost himself in Lin's touches, he would rid himself of his past. Everything the number was doing to him felt amazing and he really just wanted to relax and enjoy himself instead of constantly thinking of his past love.

Lin continued kissing the cat, then pulled away as he moved his mouth back against Train's body, his tongue licking and his lips sucking every bit of flesh he could get at. Lin felt encouraged to go further as he heard the man beneath him gasping and moaning in pleasure and he moved his lips lower, now concentrating on the cat's stomach as his tongue memorized every inch of his crush.

He pulled away for a second so he could see Train's face and smiled devotedly. "Your body is absolutely flawless... You are utter perfection, Train Heartnet."

Train's eyes widened when Lin said this, but the number did not see it as he continued working his lips against the gunman's body.

"My beautiful, beautiful, Train. My glorious love. My flawless Feline. You are beyond perfect."

The cat pushed Lin off of him again, rolling over once more as he felt his breath catch in his throat at the memory. "I-I can't, Lin… It's not right…"

Lin glared at him, his voice angry as he spoke. "What?! What isn't right?! What's so wrong with this?! With us?!"

Train sighed and rolled back over so he could see the man. "I'm not ready for something serious, Lin. I'm… I'm not over what he did to me…"

The number sighed in frustration and laid next to Train, leaning on his hand as he spoke. "I'm not asking for anything serious, Train. I just want to be with you in whatever way you'll have me."

Train turned so he was laying on his back and covered his face with his hands. "And I'm telling you I'm not ready. And I don't know if I'll ever be ready. It also just… Doesn't feel right. Not with him sleeping in the next room."

That was when it occurred to Lin that Train may not be entirely over his feelings for Creed. When he said he wasn't over what Creed did to him, Lin had a feeling that also had something to do with how strongly he felt for the swordsman. The chemistry between them was obvious and as much as it hurt Lin to admit it, it was something he couldn't recreate with Train. He tried time and time again, but he just couldn't get Train to have that same spark he clearly had with Creed.

And still has with him… Even if he doesn't see it. God, it must be hell for him. To have to live with a man he used to love so utterly that betrayed him on such a deep level. He probably has so many emotions running through him at the same time that he doesn't know how to deal with.

Lin had seen Train laughing with Creed then suddenly getting angry with him and walking away. The anger had been lessening lately, but it was still there. After Lin realized how strongly he felt about Train, he couldn't imagine what it would be like to be betrayed by someone you cared so deeply for. Someone you trusted so completely only to have it smashed to pieces.

The number frowned as he looked at Train, realizing the man had a single tear fall from his perfect eyes. Lin reached out and wiped it away, causing the cat to look at him, startled. Lin smiled kindly and caressed his cheek.

"Okay, Sweetness, whatever you want. I'll wait for you. As long as it takes. I can't imagine what you're going through, but I know it must be confusing and hard. However, can I make one request?"

Train looked at him, allowing the number to massage his cheek as he spoke. The cat nodded, gesturing for him to continue with his statement.

"...Can I please stay? I won't push anything more on you, I just want to be with you right now. It looks like you're going through a lot and I don't want you to be alone. Please, let me stay to comfort you?"

"I told you then, and it still stands true now: I will not let you be alone. No matter what the cost, I will always stand by your side."

Train sighed as his mind made another comparison between Lin and Creed. However, he knew he didn't want to be alone either, so he nodded.

"Okay…. That's fine. I guess I could use the company anyway…"

Lin smiled and moved himself closer to Train, wrapping his arms around the cat's back as he snuggled close into his chest. He sighed blissfully as he felt the gunman's heart beat against his ear, snuggling as close as he could, shutting his eyes as he memorized every minute of this moment. When he felt Train sigh shakily, he frowned and held the man a little closer, burying his face as far into the Black Cat's chest as he could.

"It's okay, Train. I'm here." He ran his fingers up and down the golden man's back, trying to comfort his crush as best he could. "I won't leave you alone."

Lin's words only made Creed's words echo louder in his head, but he felt himself relax a little at the tender caresses the man was giving him. Train sighed again, calming himself down and trying to clear his mind as he shut his eyes. He wrapped his arms around Lin, pulling him close as he tried to use the other man's body to forget his troubled past. Train buried his head half into the pillow, half into the number's dark hair and heard Lin make a happy sound. His eyes slowly shut, sleep taking over his hung over body as his mind drifted off to sweet dreams he wouldn't remember when he woke up.

---

Creed woke up a few hours later, not feeling any better than before as he groaned and rolled over to grab his phone to check the time. He groaned again and coughed loudly as he noticed how late it had gotten. It was way past the normal time they would have dinner and Creed wasn't sure if he felt like getting up to check and see if they left anything for him.

The swordsman shut his eyes and rested his hand against his forehead, moaning when he felt how hot his skin was.

Great, guess I have a fever now as well.

His eyes opened back up when he heard the voices of his sweeper group coming from the other room, frowning deeply when he heard Lin's voice as well.

Why is he still here? This late at night? He usually doesn't stick around all day. Especially if there's no sweeps we're currently working on.

When he heard his beloved's voice followed by the number's laugh, Creed felt his heart break, understanding now why he was still here. He was still trying to worm his way into his Kitten's heart.

No. Not my Kitten… Never will be my Kitten again… No matter how much I want him back.

Creed could have sworn he heard his love saying his name and he sat up a little, trying to listen to what Train had to say about him. He sighed deeply when he realized he couldn't hear and left his bed so he could press his ear against the door. Still not able to hear anything, he opened the door a little, peeking his head out so he could better hear.

"Kuro-sama, why is he still here?! And why are you letting him cuddle next to you?!"

"I told you it's none of your business! In fact, that goes to all questions you will ever ask me for the rest of your life."

Creed clutched his chest painfully when he heard what Kyoko said, knowing that meant Lin was getting far too comfortable with Train for his comfort and his love wasn't stopping him either.

It's none of my business either… Train deserves to be happy.

"Train, why do you keep worrying about Creed? He's sleeping. Let him be." Lin's voice sounded a bit annoyed as he spoke, clearly not happy with the cat's concern for his ex-lover.

Creed heard his beloved sigh. "Because it's my fault he's sick in the first place. The fact that he slept most of the day doesn't make me feel any better."

The silver man could practically feel Lin's smile and hear his purr as the number spoke to his Kitten. "Well… We were in bed most of the day too. But, there wasn't much sleeping going on…"

"GET YOUR HANDS OFF KURO-SAMA!"

The silver man choked back a sob which caused him to cough as he heard the seductive tone Lin used. This solidified in Creed's head that the number and his beloved had already started some kind of intimate relationship. He had a feeling something happened between them last night, but was able to convince himself he was just reading too much into it. He didn't think Train would give into his physical desires so easily.

But that seals the deal… Lin and Train are starting some kind of relationship… Whether it be romantic or otherwise doesn't matter. Facts are facts. Train is with another...

Creed then heard Sven sigh as he turned a page in his newspaper. "All of you need to be quiet if you want Creed to get sleep. You'll wake the neighbors with the volume you're at."

He heard Eve stand. "I'll go check on him."

"No, Eve. I got it. Like I said, it's my fault he's sick anyway. I'll make sure he's okay."

Creed heard Lin protest and Train push Kyoko off him and panicked briefly. He ran back to his bed, cursing as he tripped slightly and fell onto his bed. Pulling the blankets back over his head, Creed tried to calm his breathing so Train wouldn't realize he was listening to them.

Honestly, how juvenile is that? Listening to my friends and my beloved to see what they're saying about me behind my back? What the hell is wrong with me?

He heard the door open behind him and shut his eyes, rolling them inwardly at himself when he remember Train couldn't see him under the blankets. Creed listened as Train approached the bed, his heart racing fast at the knowledge his cat was getting closer. When his golden love was behind him, Creed held back a blissful sigh when Train reached out to touch his cheek gently.

Train frowned and moved his hand to the man's forehead, his guilt rising as he felt how hot his ex-partner was. "Shit…" He mumbled as he pulled one of the blankets away from the man, hoping that would lessen the fever.

Creed smiled wonderfully as he felt his beloved fuss over him. Deciding that was enough pretending and rolled over to open his eyes at his Kitten, allowing his beloved to see his smile and conscious face.

"Hi, Train…" Even Creed was surprised at his scratchy voice and he looked at his love sadly. "I don't feel well..."

"Yeah, you don't look well either. I think you have a fever. Hold on, let me get the thermometer."

Creed tried to stop his love from leaving, but whined as his head throbbed painfully and pulled his hand back to rub it. His Kitten was back quickly, thermometer in hand that he roughly pushed into his ex-partner's mouth. Train looked at Creed's face and snickered.

"Don't give me that puppy dog look. We need to know how high it is." When he saw Creed try to speak, Train poked his forehead. "Don't talk with your mouth full. Isn't that what you always tell me?"

Creed glared at him and allowed Train to remove the object from his mouth. He saw his love frown at the number that appeared there, then looked back at Creed in concern.

"One hundred and one point four. That settles it, you're sick."

Creed pouted at his cat. "I don't know why we needed the thermometer to confirm that…"

Train shrugged his shoulders and put the instrument down, sitting in the chair next to Creed's bed. "Just to be sure. That's why my mo-"

Train stopped himself before he finished that sentence. He hadn't talked about his mom since he and Creed were lovers and he wasn't sure why he was bringing it up now.

Especially with Creed being this sick. Now's not the time to let my baggage down at his doorstep. Or ever again for that matter.

Creed gave his beloved a sympathetic look then reached out to pat his love's shoulder gently. "It's okay, Train… You can talk about her. You're safe here."

Train looked at the sick man and frowned. "You're not really in the physical state to hear my past trauma. I also am not sure how appropriate it is for us to be talking about such sensitive matters…"

Creed smiled fondly at his cat. "My physical state will never prevent me from comforting you. Remember, I said I would always be there for you. No matter what. That includes when I'm sick and can barely talk, or you hate me more than anyone else in the world…"

Train glanced at him, then slumped in the chair a bit. "I don't know if I hate you more than anyone else in the world anymore…"

The silver man felt his heart lift from Train's statement. "That… Means a lot to hear, Train… And, if you don't want to talk about it, I won't make you. Just know that I'm here for you. No matter what."

Train thought about what he said for a second, then, for whatever reason, decided to push forward with his story. Maybe it was because he hadn't been able to talk about his parents to anyone except Creed and being without that kind of connection with another person was starting to get to him. It might not have been a good idea, considering he still didn't think he could ever forgive Creed, but that part of him that craved emotional intimacy with another human came out ahead once more.

Besides, Creed already knows all about them. I laid a lot at his feet when we were together. And he took each traumatic memory with grace and love.

That's also what he felt like he needed right now. His head had been kind of messed up lately and maybe if he talked about something other than his confusing love life, he might feel better.

As much as I hate to admit it, Creed always made me feel better before. I can't talk to him about Lin, but I can talk to him about my mom.

Train smiled at a memory, looking at the ceiling as he spoke. "I used to fake getting sick all the time, but my mom always seemed to know. She said we needed to take my temperature just to be sure I really was sick. Problem is, I would fight her, so she had to call my dad in." The cat chuckled lightly as he reminisced about his parents. "He would come in, mad as hell, and pin me down so my mom could take my temperature. Nine times out of ten, it came back that I was fine and forced me to go to school."

Creed giggled at the story, coughing a little as he laid back down and watched his Kitten's gorgeous face. "That sounds so much like you… I feel like I had to do similar things when we were in Chronos…"

Train laughed a little louder. "Yeah, except I always acted like I wasn't sick when I really was. You did what my mother did, but for the opposite reason."

Creed shrugged his shoulders. "No, it was for the same reason. We just got different results. But, we both knew what those results would be. We just needed to show your stubborn ass we were right."

Train pointed an accusing finger at him. "Hey, at least at Chronos I was trying to continue working! When I was a kid, I faked it to get out of work!"

Creed rolled his eyes. "Whatever you need to tell yourself, Train."

The cat gave him a warning looking, then smiled. "Thanks for listening, Creed. You didn't have to. You really should be resting."

"I am resting, Train. Your voice is soothing to me…"

Train felt himself blush a little, then shook his head to rid himself of the feeling. "Don't start talking like that, Creed. I know I've come a long way from hating you four months ago, but I'm not ready to hear you speak lovingly to me. And I don't think I ever will."

Creed gave him a sad look and nodded. "I'm sorry, Train… I'll try to do better…"

The cat eyed him wearily. He thought about something for a second, then decided now was better than any other time. "It… It still hurts, Creed. Not just what you did to Saya, but… What you did to me… I know you don't like to hear this, but… I think I need to get it out. My head's been a real mess lately and if I'm ever going to move on, I think I need to get these feelings off my chest. And this time, I think I need to actually talk to you about them instead of just yelling at you. Or telling you to shut up."

Creed watched his cat as he spoke, taking in every word slowly, nodding when his beloved was done. "I… I know, Train. I know I hurt you. I know there's nothing I can do to make it better. I just hope you can understand how sorry I am. How much it eats me alive every day. How much I wish I could turn back time and prevent all of this from happening."

Train couldn't help but laugh bitterly at that statement. "Though, ironically, if you did, we would have never been as close to each other in the first place."

Creed smiled sadly. "I know… But if never having you in the first place meant that I could take away all your hurt, I would do it in a heartbeat. If I had the ability to bring her back to life, but you lost all memory of me, I wouldn't hesitate for a second. You already lost so much and I came in and took even more away from you… I never deserved your love or your friendship…"

Train sighed and lowered his head. "Are you still only thinking about what you did in terms of my reaction? Do you still not understand why killing her was wrong."

Creed looked wistfully at his love, knowing he was starting to get angry with their conversation, but also realizing he was holding it back so they could keep talking. "I… Guess I don't know what you mean by that. Isn't part of regretting killing or hurting someone is because you see the pain it causes others? Isn't that part of being human? Not wanting to see others suffer because of the mistakes you made?"

Train looked languidly at his former lover. "Yes, but you need to understand beyond that why it's wrong. You need to know why it was wrong to end another life."

Creed nodded. "Yes, because it's not up for us to make that decision."

Train sighed. "Now you're just repeating my words…"

Creed sighed as well and sat himself up a little, leaning his back against the headboard, coughing as he did so. "Yes, I know. But what else can I do to convince you, Train? I know killing her was wrong and I know killing anyone else is wrong. I understand taking another life is not something I should never be allowed to do, but I don't know how to convince you. I can't use Saya as an example because that involves you. I see the hurt it caused you, but you'll only see that as me using you as my reasoning for everything and there isn't anyone else I killed that I personally knew and can so sympathy towards their loved ones. I'm in a lose-lose situation, Train. I don't know what else to do to convince you that I am suffering and learning from what I did. And it's not just because of you."

The room was silent as Train thought over his words. He knew Creed was right. There really wasn't anything he could do to ever truly convince Train and for some reason, that hurt him deeply. As if a part of him had been waiting for Creed to change so he could forgive him. So he could have his friend back and finally be able to move on.

But, maybe that's not fair of me to ask him… It's starting to feel more like it's on me than on him. He's been nothing but calm and friendly the last four months and has shown the utmost care for not just me, but Sven and the others as well.

Train ran his fingers through his hair, looking out the window to Creed's room as he spoke. "Am I asking too much of you Creed?"

Creed blinked at his love, then shook his head. "No. I don't think you are. I think you are having an internal conflict because you're slowly starting to forgive me and consider me a friend again, but whenever you think about the fond memories we had, you remember what I did and feel bad for having a moment of happiness with me. Because I'm the one that took that happiness away. I'm the one that took your heart and slammed it on the floor."

He watched his beloved as he spoke, waiting to see if he wanted to add anything. Seeing that he was silent, Creed continued. "And I think the closer you get to forgiving me, the more you feel like you're betraying Saya. Like your hatred and resentment towards me is the only thing that's keeping her alive…"

Creed sighed, knowing the next thing he was about to say was going to be harder for him to hear than Train. "And… Since you know you can't forgive me for what I did… You're trying to move on despite these unresolved feelings. However, you're getting in your own way. I'm all you've ever known, so I think you're probably making unfair comparisons between me and Lin which is stopping you from moving on."

Train saw the sad look in his former lover's eyes and felt his heart drop a little. "So… What you're saying is… Until I get over this vicious cycle of wanting to be close to you again and still resenting you for what you did, I won't be able to move on."

Creed tried to smile, but he knew it was an empty expression. "I think… I think I broke your trust so badly, you don't feel like you can trust again. I think I ruined you for love and now that you're starting something with Lin, you can see that. I think I tainted something that's supposed to be the most wonderful, beautiful feeling in the world and you're desperately trying to break free of the hurt I caused you, but, because I'm here as a constant reminder… It's impossible for you to do that." He took a deep breath and finished his sentence. "I… traumatized you, Train. And I'm sorry for that…"

Train wasn't sure what he was implying, but there was also a part of him that didn't like where he was going. "Are… Are you saying if you left…. Then maybe I'll be able to move on?"

Creed felt his heart quake with pain, then nodded dismally. "Yes. And… If that's what you want… If that's what will make you finally find happiness with Lin or someone else then… I'll do it. I'll pack my bags tonight and leave right away. I'd do anything to make you happy again, Train. Even if that means never seeing you again…"

Train thought about what he said, then shook his head. "No. No, I don't want that. I know I don't want that. I don't know why, but… I know I don't want you out of my life forever. I may have wanted that four months ago, but now… Now I know I don't want you to go away for good."

Creed smiled. "Thank you, Train…"

The cat sighed and ran his fingers through his hair again. "Well then… You're the Train expert. I don't want you to leave, but I also want to break free of this vicious cycle of caring about you and hating you. What should I do?"

Creed shrugged his shoulders. "Do you wanna hit me? I don't care if I'm sick. If you want to hit me, you can."

Train chuckled bitterly. "I think I already did that and it didn't help."

Creed nodded, remembering the night he left. "Yeah… I remember." He took a deep breath and tried something else. "Then, I think the answer is you just need time. We both agreed there's nothing I can do that will convince you I've really changed so, and I'm sorry for saying this, but it sounds like you just need to do some soul searching. Just like me, you need to find peace within yourself. And maybe when you have bad thoughts, just push them aside and try to replace them with happy ones. There's nothing you can do about the bad memories, you can't change them. So maybe… Just try no to dwell on them so much."

He smiled adoringly at Train as he finished his statement. "And I know this will sound strange and you may not want it, but… Just know if you ever need help finding your answers… I'm always here to talk."

Train smiled at the man. "Well, you just helped me now. You've always been able to read me like a book, so I think I may need your help along the way. Just like you need mine." He paused and thought about something, then looked away from Creed as he said his next sentence. "Except… I think I'll keep any problems I might have with Lin away from you. I don't think that's fair to talk about him with you."

Creed let out a shaky sigh and nodded. "Yes, I agree… And as long as we're being honest, I want to tell you that it does hurt seeing you two together and I appreciate you asking Lin to cool in on the PDA when I'm around. That means a lot to me."

Train leaned forward and patted Creed's leg. "No problem."

As he looked into Creed's sweet eyes, he felt a small bit of warmth rise in his chest which he knew was showing in his eyes. He looked away quickly, deciding to put a stop to that feeling right away as he stood and stretched his back.

"A-anyway… Are you hungry? I put aside soup for you. I can bring it in if you want." Train thought about asking him if he felt well enough to read through the documents, but after pretty much forcing him to have a hard conversation while he had a fever was enough for now.

We can at least wait until his fever goes away. I hate pushing this off even longer, but it's really only been two days. I doubt much will change in two days.

Creed saw the bit of orange in his beloved's eyes and smiled blithely, then coughing loudly. "You're too good to me Train." He pulled the blankets back and swung his legs off the bed. "I'll come out and get it. I know I have a fever, but I need to get out of this room for a little. I'm starting to get stir crazy."

Train laughed. "I know that feeling all too well…" He offered a hand to the silver man, pulling him up slowly and waiting for him to steady himself. "I feel like we were just here four months ago."

Creed giggled. "Yeah… I don't know how I'm ever going to make any of this up to you…"

Train shrugged his shoulders. "As long as you'll keep letting me bend your ear and allow me to vent my feelings, consider us even. It's a lot harder for me to deal with my emotional state than my physical state."

"Yes, I know that, Train. You've never been good at expressing your emotions. But, you know I'll always be here to help you weed through the amazing mess that is the Black Cat."

Train rolled his eyes and felt himself blush a little, pushing aside the feeling again quickly as he opened the door for the swordsman. "Whatever you say, Dr. Diskenth."

Creed smiled teasingly at his beloved. "Just remember to take your medicine and call me in the morning."

Train laughed again as they walked down the hallway, the cat ready to catch the unstable, sick man in case he fell. "Are you insinuating that I need to take crazy pills?"

Creed chuckled as he made his way down the hall and into the living space, not seeming to care about everyone else in the room. "Maybe. But I guess those who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones."

Train laughed and pulled a chair out for Creed to sit in while he went to the kitchen to warm up his soup. Lin watched their interaction with interest while the rest of the group seemed to not care. Sven sent Kyoko to her room a while ago since he was getting sick of her yelling so it was just Lin, Eve, and Sven sitting in the room together. It had been mostly quiet since Train left since both the girl and the older man were reading, so Lin had been concentrating on trying to listen to the conversation his crush was having with the silver man when they were in Creed's room.

Lin watched as Train set the soup in front of Creed, growling a little when he saw the happy look the cat gave him. Creed, as usual, was staring at him with puppy dog eyes and began eating the soup gratefully. When he saw Train was about to sit at the table with the swordsman, he cleared his throat to catch the man's attention.

"We didn't finish our show, Sweetness…"

Train frowned at the number, then at Creed. "Can it wait? I want to make sure Creed eats before he goes back to bed."

Lin rolled his eyes. "He's a big boy, Train. He can take care of himself."

Train looked at Creed and saw the despondency in his eyes, knowing the smile he gave the cat meant nothing. "He's right, Train. I am perfectly capable of finishing soup on my own. Go sit with Lin."

Still unsure, Train hesitated a second, then went back to the couch where the number was waiting. As soon as the golden man sat down, Lin moved himself so he was pressed against the Black Cat, leaning his body into Train's as the gunman put his arm on the back of the couch. Lin wrapped his arms around Train, nuzzling his head into his crush's chest as he placed his leg on top of Train's knee. He sighed merrily as Train pressed play on the television, resuming the show they were watching before the cat left.

Creed watched the whole situation with a broken heart.

It's only been a day since they're date. Isn't this going a bit fast?

Creed shook himself of the thought, reminding himself once more that it was none of his business. He looked back at his soup, trying to remind himself that his beloved cared enough about him to at least make him dinner. It felt like an empty reminder, but he knew it was all he had now. He was never going to be able to hold Train like Lin was again and now it seemed like the two had started being more open with their friends about what was going on between them.

It's… Fine. I'll be fine as long as I can be near Train.

He heard Eve take a seat next to him, smiling kindly at him as she handed him the book she wanted him to read a while back. "You should give Anastasia a call. I think you could use a piano lesson."

Creed nodded and sipped delicately at his soup, glancing at Train and Lin every so often. "Yes, you're right. I'll call her as soon as I feel better."

Sven didn't look away from his paper as he spoke. "I'm glad you found that woman. Sounds like a great outlet for you."

Eve looked at her guardian hopefully. "Does that mean you'll finally let me be alone with Creed when you're away on 'adult sweeps'?" She hated that he called them that, but she thought that maybe if she used his exact words, he might be more willing to cave into what she wanted.

Sven glared at Eve, then looked at Creed who was still mindlessly sipping his soup as he watched Lin cuddle against Train on the couch. "We'll see…"

Sven knew Creed had gone through a major change, but he still had a hard time trusting the man. There was no getting that image of what happened that night out of his head, so it was hard to leave him alone with the person he cared most about in the world.

Eve sighed and looked at Creed, sliding the book in his view in hopes of distracting him from the clearly painful scene he was witnessing. The silver man jumped a little when Eve poked him, then smiled as he took the book from her.

"Thank you, Eve."

She sulked again when she saw a tear fall from the man's eyes and felt the urge to comfort him. "It's still pretty one-sided, Creed. I wouldn't get too upset about it."

Creed sighed when he saw Train tease the number and Lin lean over to kiss his cheek lightly. "Maybe it is for now… But I don't think it'll stay that way much longer."

He looked back at Eve and put a hand up to stop her from speaking. "It's okay, Eve. I'll be okay. As long as he wants me in his life, I'll be okay…"

Feeling an uncharacteristic bit of pity for Creed, Sven decided to enter the conversation. "I saw a bit of the relationship you had with Train and I saw how badly he took it when it ended so if it helps… I can say I don't think this is going anywhere. Or at least it's not going to reach the level your relationship with him did."

Creed gave the green haired sweeper a grateful look, since he could tell this was hard for him to think about. "I appreciate it, Sven, really. But, I have no say in who has Train's heart. It's selfish to want to see him be alone forever just because I know I will be."

Sven rolled his eyes. "Why do you always have to be so dramatic?" He glanced at Train, watching as Lin stared at him lovingly and the gunman yawned and leaned back into the couch. "Our cat is simply trying to fill a hole. I'm actually more concerned for Lin than Train."

Eve followed the older man's gaze and nodded in agreement. "I think Lin might be in love with him."

"He is." Creed added confidently as he looked at the number's eyes. "I know that look anywhere. He's in love with Train, no doubt."

But I don't know if he's told Train yet. I also don't think Train is in love with him… yet.

"Creed, I know it hurts, but don't worry. I really don't think this will go anywhere. Train doesn't talk about him the way he talked about you in the past."

Creed blinked in confusion at the green haired sweeper, shocked at the kindness he was showing him. He nodded and felt himself blush a little, happy to hear people believe what he had with Train was stronger than what Train has with Lin.

If only my Kitten saw that too. Maybe if he knew how strong our connection was, he would be able to move on from what happened between us and be happy again… But with me.

Creed felt like slapping himself for the selfish thought. He finished his soup sadly, then coughed loudly into his elbow. When he looked back over at Train, he blushed wildly when he saw his beloved was giving him a worried look. His arm was still around Lin and the number was still embracing him tightly, but it seemed like his eyes were more concerned with Creed's well being.

The swordsman smiled and swooned as he gazed lovingly into his kitten's eyes and nodded reassuringly. Even from where he sat, he could see the hint of orange in his eyes as he smiled back at him. Creed wasn't sure if his happiness was due to him or Lin, but he chose not to question it. The fact that his beloved was showing him any attention when he was supposed to be spending time with Lin meant the world to him.

I'll be okay… As long as he wants me in his life, I'll be okay.

He looked at his empty soup bowl and smiled, using the inanimate dishware to signify his Kitten's care for him.

---

Creed's fever stuck around longer than expected, but Train was relieved to see it finally break. It had been almost a week and the cat was about to take his former partner to the hospital.

But, Creed is right. I can't take him to a normal hospital. They might recognize him and refuse to treat him. Or worse, alert someone who actually wants to cause him harm.

Creed also told him bringing him to a doctor or a hospital could create a paper trail that the Apostles could use to find them. It had been four months since they last saw them, but that didn't mean they weren't still looking for him.

And Creed always ends up being right about these things. Plus, my gut agrees. I'm just glad he's finally feeling better.

Now that Creed was feeling better, they were finally going to go through the paperwork. He was currently waiting for Creed to get out of the shower and for Eve and Sven to get back so they could get started. Eve and Sven said they would help, which would make the process go faster. Kyoko offered to help as well, but Train had a feeling she was going to do more harm than good so he told her they had enough people. It was hard convincing her to stay away from the cat, but Train managed to slip her some money and told her to go shopping. He didn't mention this to Sven, since he knew the green haired sweeper would throw a fit, but Train knew it was the right decision to make.

Seriously, she'll just complain the whole time and cling to me constantly and we'll never get it done. We've put this off long enough and we can't afford to be distracted.

Not that having both Lin and Creed there wouldn't be distracting. Number X stuck around the whole week while they waited for his ex-lover to get better since he insisted he didn't want to leave the files unprotected. Train told him he could bring them back to his hotel room and they'd let him know when Creed was better, but that wasn't enough to convince him.

I know the real reason he wanted to stay. He saw how much I was taking care of Creed and didn't want to take his eyes off me because of it. He's jealous.

Train rolled his eyes at that thought as he read the book Eve had given Creed. He became invested in the story since it seemed like Creed had been reading it partially due to his relationship with Train. He was still pretty bored reading it since nothing exciting happened, but he figured it just needed time to pick up.

I don't know why he's jealous. He knows nothing's going to happen between me and Creed again. Yeah, Creed's still in love with me, but I'll never be able to return that feeling. Not after what he did.

Train shook his head and tried to concentrate on the book instead of his negative thoughts. After talking to Creed, he decided he agreed with his former partner that the best way to move on and break himself of his vicious cycle was to push away the bad thoughts whenever they came up. He tried to concentrate on the good times he had with his ex-partner instead of the bad ones. Train was also pretty sure Saya wouldn't want him to hold onto his rage against the man, so he knew it was best to let it go for her sake and for his.

And for Creed's and the rest of the group. We can't function at our best if I'm constantly second guessing Creed. Although, Sven's no better. I think I need to have a talk with him as well. Or he and Creed need to talk.

As he read, his mind drifted back to Lin and Creed. It bothered him how jealous the number seemed to be of Creed especially since Lin had spent every night with him in his room. It took Lin a little bit of convincing to get into his bed again, since Train still felt like they were moving a bit fast. But, in the end he let the other man win just so he would stop trying to get in between him and Creed.

I also can't deny it's nice having someone sleep next to me again. Plus, I enjoy his company. He helps keep me in the present which prevent nightmares of my past from resurfacing.

He had a few nightmares while Lin was sharing his bed these last few nights, but he was able to hide them from him. Number X tried to get him to talk about it, but Train still wasn't comfortable with that. He wasn't sure if he would ever be since the only people he had ever opened up to were Saya and Creed. After losing both of them, it was hard for him to trust again.

I think Creed is right, he traumatized me with relationships. I know that was a hard thing for him to say to me, but I appreciate his honesty. Especially since he knows helping me get over what he did to me might only push me closer to Lin.

Train knew he also enjoyed having Lin in his bed for more than just the emotional company. The physical aspects were satisfying as well especially since he realized after their date how badly he needed to get his sexual urges out. His relationship with Creed had opened the floodgates to those feelings and they were shut off rather quickly when he left Creed. After going to so long without them, it was gratifying to have them back.

I'm still not sure how I feel about doing those things with Lin when Creed is right in the next room, but it's hard to turn down his advances. Especially since he's really good at it.

The cat felt himself blush and turned a page in the book, crossing his legs as he laid on the couch, hoping he covered up any visible signs of his arousal in case someone walked in. While he enjoyed how Lin made his body feel, it still wasn't the same as when he was with Creed. He tried to figure out what the difference was, but he couldn't. There was just something about the physical aspect of his relationship with Creed that he just didn't have with Lin.

Wait, am I saying I'm in a relationship with Lin now? Since when did I start thinking like that?

Train sighed and rested the book on his chest as he put a hand on his forehead.

I guess it's not fair to say we're not in any kind of relationship after spending five nights with him. I also don't turn away his affections when others are around as long as they're tame. I guess the question is more what our relationship is.

He knew what Lin wanted it to be, but he wasn't sure if he was ready for that label yet. Not when he was still making comparisons to his ex constantly. That wasn't fair to anyone. He hadn't talked to Lin about this yet, but he had a feeling that conversation wasn't far away at this point. Not with how fast they were moving. They hadn't slept together yet, but Train knew that's what Lin was gunning for.

Seriously, it's almost like it's all he thinks about. I'm glad he's respecting my wishes, but it's hard enough to try and keep ourselves quiet so no one hears us. Creed's room is right next to mine and I would hate it if he heard anything we were up to.

Train was banking on the fact that Creed was sick and sleeping most of the day and even when he was awake, he was on so many cold medicines he might not have known what was going on. There were even a few times when Train went to check on him that Creed forgot himself and either tried to embrace him or spoke his poetic, loving words once more. Train felt himself get hot at the thought, then brushed it away quickly as he rolled over on the couch, burying his face into the back cushions as he tried to think of anything else except the two men who seemed to be constantly vying for his affections.

Creed definitely has backed off and tried to give Lin more room, but him just looking at me is enough. It's like he can't help trying to win me back with just his sad, love sick, puppy dog eyes.

He felt his heart flutter a little as he imagined it and banged his head into the cursing a little bit. Train hated that his mind kept doing this to him. It was as if his heart wanted to think about Creed and what they had together, but his head needed to constantly remind him of what happened and they could never be together again.

Well, that's not true. We could be together. Creed would take me back in an instant, but I can't handle that. It won't ever be the same after what he did.

Still, he couldn't help but wish it could. There was still a part of him that wished none of this had ever happened and he could still be happy with Creed. After all, when they were together was the happiest he had ever been.

But, it can't ever go back to that. I can never love him again like I did before. I can't be with him after what he did to me… To Saya...

"Hey there, cutie. Whatcha doing all by yourself out here?"

Train looked up to see Lin leaning over the back of the couch to look at him. The cat glanced at him, then buried his head back into the couch.

"Just... Thinking."

Lin frowned down at him, then reached out a hand to caress his hair lovingly. "That's a dangerous pastime, Sweetness. Do you want to talk?"

Yes…

"No…"

Number X sighed then moved himself so he was in front of the couch. He rolled Train over so the cat was on his back and smiled kindly at him as he kneeled down on the floor. "I wish you'd open up to me more… You know I would never judge you…"

Train sighed and shut his eyes, enjoying the feel of Lin's fingers gliding soothingly across his cheek. "I'm… Not ready…"

Lin smiled warmly at him and nodded. "I know. And I'll wait. Just know that I'll be here whenever you're ready."

Train tried to give him a small smile, but knew it wasn't convincing. "Thanks, Lin…"

Number X continued caressing the cat's cheek, smiling fondly at him as his hand kept it's comforting motions against his soft skin. After a few minutes, he leaned forward and kissed him lightly, leaving his hand against the gunman's face. When he felt Train returned the kiss, he pushed himself a little further by pressing a bit harder into the golden man. As Train applied more pressure himself, Lin slowly moved his body so he was straddling the Black Cat's waist on the couch, using both his hands to run along Train's cheek and into his hair.

Train moved his hands to Lin's back, holding him steady as the number deepened the kiss by diving his tongue into the cat's mouth. The golden man let out a quiet moan as Lin pulled away and began trailing his kisses down Train's neck.

"Where's everyone?" Lin asked between his kisses.

Train swallowed thickly when the number nibbled at his sensitive skin below his jaw. "Eve and Sven are grocery shopping and Creed's still in the shower."

Lin nodded and moved his lips along the cat's jawline, trying to reach the other side of his neck. "Have they been gone long?"

Train nodded. "Yes, they'll be home soon. This isn't a good idea…"

Lin smirked as he licked Train's neck, enjoying the shiver the cat let out. "Then stop me…"

Train groaned and felt his body get weak as Lin nibbled under his chin, knowing he wasn't able to do that. However, when he felt Lin move his lips to the other side of his neck, Train stopped him immediately, pushing him away slightly so he wouldn't explore that side of his body.

Number X sighed as he looked down at the Black Cat sadly. "Why do you never let me at that side? You let me kiss everywhere else but there."

Train blushed as the memory of Creed tickling him came back and looked away from the short man, trying to hide his eyes from him. "I told you the other side just feels better. That's all."

Lin narrowed his eyes at him. "Then why don't I believe you…?"

Train was about to come up with more lies to tell the man when he heard the bathroom door open. The Black Cat sat up quickly, shoving Lin off of him and to the other side of the couch before Creed saw the position they were in. He knew he didn't have to hide anything from his ex-partner, but he also knew seeing them like that would hurt him, which isn't what he wanted.

Lin pouted at Train, then turned around to see Creed exiting the bathroom, towel wrapped around his waist as water dripped down his chest. The number glanced back over at Train, who also seemed to notice the silver man's half naked state and did not like the look his sweet cat was giving the other man.

I knew he was still physically attracted to Creed, but he doesn't have to oogle him right in front of me!

He knew this was something Train would never admit out loud, but it was clear as day the sexual tension that still existed between the two former lovers. It seemed to be getting worse the last few weeks as Train began to slowly forgive the man which is why Lin insisted on sticking around as much as he could. He wanted to act as a distraction for the Black Cat as well as be his outlet for any carnal desires he might have.

If I'm not here and Creed is, Train might slip and do something with him. And if that happens there's no telling what else will happen.

Creed looked over at the couch and saw Train and Lin sitting there, his heart breaking when he realized he had just interrupted something. The childish, selfish side of him was glad to interrupt them and really wanted to walk over to the couch and sit between the two of them, but he knew that wasn't right. He needed to stop making selfish claims to his beloved, no matter how much it hurt to see him with another.

Not to mention hear. I know Train's trying to be quiet, but I know what his cries of pleasure sound like all too well. I memorized every noise he made while we were together. It plays in my dreams every night.

The silver man glanced at Train and noticed he was staring rather glossy eyed at him. Creed looked down and noticed how exposed he was and widened his eyes at seeing the bit of red in his Kitten's eyes.

Wait… Is he still physically attracted to me…?

Creed looked at Lin who seemed to be scowling at the cat's eyes and felt a surge of exhilaration wash through him.

He is! Train is still attracted to me! I know it's not love and he'll never act on it, but he can't hide it! His beautiful eyes give it away! Oh, Train, thank you so much for this small bit of euphoria you have given me!

Deciding he wanted to test this theory a little, Creed walked over to his beloved and Lin, holding back a proud smirk as he made eye contact with his Kitten, enjoying the blush that spread across his adorable face as the passionate red only grew the closer he got. When he reached the couch, he leaned over between the two, looking down at the book his cat had been reading.

Creed glanced at his love, then back at the book that rested on the ground. "Are you reading my book, Train?"

Train felt his whole body get hot as Creed leaned close to him, finding it hard to look at his ex-partner's eyes as his bare chest floated mere inches from him. The cat looked away quickly and crossed his legs, frustrated that his body was betraying him in such an obvious way.

"Yeah, but I must say it's rather boring. I don't know how you and Eve can get so invested in something so dull."

Creed giggled and moved himself a little closer to his beloved, leaning even further over the couch so he could see his Kitten's cute face. He knew this wasn't fair to Train, but he couldn't help it. Knowing he still had some sway over his cat's feelings made him happier than he had been in almost a year.

"Just give it time, Train. It gets better about halfway through." He reached out and tapped Train's shoulder making the Black Cat flinch and nodded his head uncontrollably.

Lin did not like this interaction at all and decided to intervene before the silver man ended up getting his way with the Black Cat. Number X scooted across the couch and over to Train, pushing Creed a little as he sat himself right next to the golden man. Lin wrapped one arm about Train's elbow, the other grabbing his thigh tightly as he leaned his whole body against the other man.

"Shouldn't you go get dressed, Creed? Eve and Sven will be back soon and when they return, we're going to look through those papers."

Creed shared a glare with the number, then looked back at Train who seemed intent on keeping his eyes away from both of them. The swordsman smirked at his cat and patted his love's hair playfully, letting his fingers linger slightly as he felt his Kitten hold back a shiver. The hardest part of this was making it seem like his idling was an accident along with controlling his own body enough not to shove Lin aside and have his way with Train.

"Good point, thank you for the reminder, Lin. I'll be right back." As he walked back down the hallway, Creed paused once more before leaving. "By the way, Train." He waited until his cat looked at him and allowed his towel to fall a little lower. His smirk widened when he saw his beloved eyes trail down his body. "Thank you for taking care of me. I feel a lot better now."

Creed held back a proud laugh as he walked away. Again, he knew this wasn't fair, but with how inconsiderate Lin had been towards his feelings, he felt like it was time for a bit of revenge. He also knew it might not have been fair to his beloved, but seeing as he didn't actually touch Train in an unwanted manner or force anything on him he didn't want, Creed didn't see the harm in enjoying his love's eyes on his body.

Besides, his eyes can't hide that he enjoyed it as well. Nothing will come of it anyway, so I may as well hold onto whatever attention my Kitten will give me.

Lin watched as Creed left then turned back to Train who still seemed to be hot and bothered by the swordsman's half naked body. They both saw what the silver man did to get the Black Cat's eyes on him and while Lin knew it was on purpose, chances were Train did not. Number X growled as he saw the golden man's eyes were still shining a bright shade of red and his face still looked rather flushed.

Refusing to lose to Creed, Lin straddled the man's waist once more, putting his hands on either side of the gunman's face so Train was looking at him instead of where his ex-lover had left. He didn't waste a second as he pressed his lips harshly against Train's, plunging his tongue deep into the other man's mouth, desperate to get his sweet cat's attention back on him. He even took it a step further by slipping his hands underneath Train shirt, fondling his chest as seductively as he could.

Train's mind felt so muddled after that quick encounter with Creed and now he felt like he had no time to process it as Lin was devouring his face and attacking his body. If anything, this made Train more confused since the heat Creed's presence had created was now being taken out on the man who was slowly becoming his new lover. However, he was too worked up by the both of them to fight his urges and felt his body moving on its own as he returned the other man's advances with a vengeance.

Lin hadn't ever felt Train this worked up. Whether it was due to Creed or not, he decided not to think about it and let the Black Cat have his way with him. Train pushed Lin down so his back was laying on the couch and pinned his arms above his head. The number moaned enthusiastically and arched his back upwards as Train kissed him deeply, the cat's other hand wandering along his body lustfully, landing on the number's pants as he massaged the area between his legs.

Lin felt his whole body set on fire from the cat's sudden alpha assault and didn't want it to end. His brian was trying to tell him this was due to Creed since Train would never do something like this in a public area. He didn't act this way when they were alone in his room so the fact that the gunman was starting to jerk him off in a location anyone could catch them him all the more convinced that Train was taking out his repressed sexual desires for the swordsman out on him.

But, oh God, I don't care! This feels amazing!

Train's lips and hand felt incredible. Like he was kissing an open flame and he knew if the cat kept going like this, he was going to burst before Train even had a chance to touch bare skin. He shivered in delight as the golden man bit his lip and thrust his hips up into the Black Cat. The fact that Train had pinned his hands down only made him all the more excited and forgot they were doing this in the middle of the common space of the sweepers' hideout.

Suddenly, he felt Train pull away and reposition himself on the other end of the couch. Lin did not move as he tried to gather his surroundings and catch his breath from the attack the Black Cat just made against him. He moved his hands to his chest and felt his heart race as he heard the front door open. It was then he realized Train must have heard Sven unlocking the door which is why he pulled away so suddenly.

Deciding he didn't have enough time to sit up, he put his feet on Train's lap, trying to make it look like they had just been cuddling on the couch. He looked over at his sweet cat and saw he had managed to grab the book from the floor and start reading again. When Sven and Eve walked in the room, it looked like they had been doing nothing more than sitting with each other contentedly on the couch.

Which isn't entirely untrue. It's just we were doing something a bit more than sitting quietly before.

He glanced at Train's face and saw he was trying to cover it with the book he was reading, but Lin could tell by his demeanor that even he wasn't sure where that animalistic side of him came from.

I don't want to believe it was due to Creed, but I can't shake the feeling that it was… I'll have to talk to him about that later.

Lin was really hoping that wasn't the case. If it was, that meant he was right and there was still something unresolved between his growing love and Creed. Something he wasn't going to be able to stop. It was bad enough he could see how strong their bond was despite what happened between them, but knowing the only way he could only get that level of excitement from Train was through the swordsman was actually quite painful.

Don't think about it right now. Just enjoy what you have with him. It's still more than Creed has.

"Hey, Sveny-baby! We've been waiting for you."

Lin was pushed out of his thoughts by Train's voice. The cat was still hiding his face behind the book, but he could tell Train was doing his best to sound normal for his friends. Sven glared at Train behind the bags of groceries he was carrying as he stepped inside.

"Shut up and us out. It's bad enough you didn't come with us."

Train rolled his eyes and put the book down since this short interaction was already working wonders of lessening the heat and confusion in his body. "You're the one that doesn't want me to tag along! You always say we spend more when I come with you!"

Sven continued glaring at him as he walked into the kitchen and put the bags down. "Because it's true!"

Train returned his glare. "Then don't blame me!"

"BUT IT'S YOUR FAULT!"

"NO IT'S NOT!"

"Alright, children, no need to argue. I got the rest of the bags, don't worry." Eve came in after Sven, her arms stretched out long enough to hold all the bags on them.

Sven nodded gratefully at her as he addressed Train again. "You can at least help us put them away. It's still your fault we have to buy so much."

Train rolled his eyes. "Come on, Sven. I know I eat a lot but it's not all my fault!"

Sven put a gallon of milk away as he continued blaming the cat. "Yes it is! After all, your boyfriend has been here for the last four days as well!"

Creed walked in at that precise moment and the proud smile he had at knowing Train's attraction to him had changed into a panicked one when he heard what Sven said. Lin froze as well, but more out of happiness than fear as he turned to gauge the cat's reaction. He glanced at Creed quickly as well, overjoyed the silver man had walked in at that exact moment and felt a bit of sick pleasure out of the pained look the swordsman was giving the cat.

Train felt his body go cold, but his face got hot at the title his friend had just thrown out there rather carelessly. He heard Creed enter at the perfectly wrong time and knew his ex-lover and Lin were both staring at him expectedly. He felt trapped in that moment, not sure what to say. If he agreed with Sven, he'd be hurting Creed and if he didn't agree, he'd hurt Lin. Train cursed internally at the green haired man, trying to give him a harsh glare from his spot on the couch.

Eve felt the tension in the room as well and turned to Sven, making sure he saw the stern look in her eyes as she helped him put away the groceries. Sven didn't need to see the girl's face to realize he had said the wrong thing and regretted it almost as soon as the words left his mouth. He was about to apologize and take back what he said when Lin spoke on behalf of himself.

"Don't worry, Sven, you'll be receiving money for rent and food for the time I've been here. I don't plan on moving in, I just wanted to be close and ready to help Train whenever he was ready to read over these files."

Train looked at Lin, then at Creed. While this didn't fully acknowledge the title that was thrown out there, the fact that Lin was taking ownership of it didn't help the situation. Creed felt himself shaking as he watched his beloved, holding his breath as he waited to see if his Kitten would accept the title as well.

Still not sure what to do, Train decided to avoid the situation altogether by leaping over the back of the couch and to his room where Lin had been keeping the briefcase. He avoided eye contact with everyone, speaking very quickly as he left the room.

"I'll get the briefcase right now so we can get started."

The room stayed quiet as Train left, Lin and Creed watching him as he stepped into his room since they had still not gotten an answer to their unasked question. Train had neither denied or accepted Sven's statement and the stress that hung in the air was only made worse by the Black Cat's absence. After a few minutes, Creed decided to break the silence by walking to the kitchen to help his teammates put the food away.

"I'll help. The sooner we get this away, the sooner we can go through the papers."

Any maybe the sooner Lin can leave…

No one spoke as they packed away the groceries. Sven was really kicking himself for what he said and he really wanted to apologize to Creed, especially seeing how upset he was, but he knew that would only make it worse. He glanced down at Eve who was giving the silver man a sad look and Sven could tell she was also trying to think of what she could do to ease the man's anxiety.

However, when Train returned he acted as if nothing awkward was said as he slammed the briefcase down on the table and opened it quickly. "Alright, sweepers, gather 'round! It's time to learn a little more about our beloved Tao terrorists."

Lin was sitting next to him in an instant, scooting his chair close and beaming happily at him. Train had a feeling the man was taking his lack of acknowledgement of the title thrust upon them by Sven as a good thing, but the cat didn't want to talk about it right now. At least not in front of the entire group.

Eve took a seat across from Train and Sven sat next to her, trying to give the gunman a sorrowful look. Train smiled quickly at him to let him know he wasn't mad, but wasn't pleased to see the only chair left for Creed was on the other side of him. After what just happened when he came out of the shower and the uncomfortable situation with Lin possibly being his boyfriend, he didn't think Creed being right next to him was a good idea.

And yet, I want him there. I feel better when he's around.

Creed could tell Train was unsure and paused at the kitchen door when he saw the only spot left to sit was next to time. The cat smiled and gestured for him to sit, letting him know it was okay. Lin didn't like it, but decided to make the situation better by moving even closer to the gunman and pressing his body against the side of Train's. Creed ignored the gesture and grabbed a stack of papers to start reading.

"Most of these seem to be about weapons Allie Hue's group is making for the Apostles."

The adults all looked at Eve as she spoke, grateful she had been the first one to try and break the lingering tension in the room with a subject that couldn't be farther from the awkward situation Sven created.

"Yes, I found that too when I read through them. But, you insisted on knowing what's going on with them so I figured you'd still want to read them. Also, I promised Train and I don't want to break my promise." Lin made sure to bring up the fact that he was keeping his promise to Train as much as possible since Creed mentioned to him to never break a promise to the cat.

I guess I owe him for that bit of advice. But, I'll never say it to his face.

Train nodded at Lin, but did not look at him. "Thanks for that, but is there anything we should be paying special attention to? Any weapons outside of guns and bombs that might be cause for concern?"

Lin thought about it, then reached over to the briefcase to look through and find a particular stack he couldn't make sense of. "These were kind of confusing. It's almost like they're unfinished. Like there's missing pages, but I couldn't connect them to anything else in the stack."

Train took the papers from him and leaned on the table closer to Creed so he could read them with him. Lin bit back a childish protest as he kept looking through the papers, once more trying to find the missing piece to this puzzle.

"What's this page about? It's titled CDIB3 and seems to be about some kind of weapon that makes no sense to me." Sven squinted at the paper, then widened his eyes as he read on. "It mentions nanomachines. That seems pretty important, don't you think?"

Lin saw Sven's eyes fall to him and he shrugged his shoulders. "Yes, but most of these papers mention nanomachines. The Apostles seem to be working pretty heavily with them now. Which is what we were expecting after seeing what he was doing with Aja."

Eve frowned as she looked over at Sven's paper. "Yes, but there's something off about this one in particular… It looks like there's mention of something a bit more… depraved. Doctor is mentioned in here a lot as well. And why isn't it with the other papers that talk about nanomachines? This was one off to the side from everything else. Was it like that before or did you not re-filing these after going through them?"

Lin looked offended at the girl's statement. "Of course I re-filed them! How they were in the briefcase if exactly how they were in the filing cabinet. Chronos would expect them to be in order as wellr."

Train glanced at the number. "Does Sephiria know you have these yet?"

Lin smiled at the cat. "No. I haven't said a word like you asked. I told you I wouldn't break my promise to you."

Train nodded gratefully at him. "Thanks."

Lin smirked. "Don't thank me. You can just pay me back in other ways."

"I think he's overpaid you at this point. He should get some change back..." Train and Lin looked at Creed as he gripped the papers a bit too tightly, rage clearly evident in his voice. The silver man felt their eyes on him and became self conscious and tried to smile weakly at his beloved. "Sorry, Train…"

Train sighed and focused back on the task at hand. He ignored the blush on his cheeks, knowing his ex-partner's bitter statement meant he heard what he and Lin had been up to in his room. Another shadow of guilt circled his heart as he saw the pain in the silver man's eyes and frowned at the idea of continuing to hurt Creed.

Well, now that we're reading through these, Lin will probably leave. Hopefully that'll be enough to make Creed feel better.

He didn't question why it bothered him so much to be upsetting Creed and continued with his reading.

"Wait, Eve, what was that title you read earlier?" Creed asked as he looked over at the small girl.

Eve turned the paper so it faced him and pointed to the title. "CDIB3. This was the one that doesn't seem like it's filed correctly."

Lin rolled his eyes. "Trust me, it is. I have never messed up a filing system in my life."

Creed glanced at him. "There's a first time for everything." He ignored the number's glare as he took the paper from Eve, comparing it to the one he and Train were reading. "CDIM3 is mentioned in this one as well, but it seems a bit random. It's almost like they don't want anyone to know what it is. It might have even been a secret from Hue."

Train gave the swordsman a confused look. "Why would you keep a weapon secret from the group who's providing you the weapon?"

Creed did not look at his beloved as he answered the question. "Because while they might be providing part of the weapon, it could be a small enough part to leave them in the dark about everything else."

"But, how do you keep a weapon secret from a group whose applying you so much arsenal? Seems rather difficult to keep anything secret when you are receiving so much from them." Sven was really surprised at the amount of weapons he was reading about, a lot of them using nanomachines as Lin already pointed out.

"Secret codes are one way. That's probably why they keep using the abbreviation CDIM3…" Lin was beginning to see the same pattern Creed was and hated to admit the man was on to something. He looked through a few more papers, pulling out anything that mentioned that exact combination of number and letters.

Train took a paper Lin handed him and frowned when he saw the same title mentioned in it. "Let's look through everything and put anything aside that mentions this CDIM3 crap. Maybe we can find out what it is if we look at them all together."

It took a few minutes, but they were finally able to set aside everything that mentioned this specific weapon. It was strange looking at it, since it seemed like the only thing that had in common was that title. If this was a weapon they were creating, there were a lot of pieces to it.

Eve frowned. "Has anyone else noticed this other set of letters that keeps popping up?" She pointed to it on three different papers it was mentioned in. "THBC. It looks like whatever that is, they're using it with a combination of this CDIM3."

Sven narrowed his eyes at the papers. "And why the hell does this one mention a wolf? Does Hue work in something outside of weaponry and drugs?"

Train shrugged his shoulders. "I don't know, but we already know the Apostles has an obsession with animals. They have that talking monkey and now Aja. Makes me think Doctor is doing some sick crap with a wolf. What do you think, Creed?"

Train turned to look at Creed, but he was shocked by the look he saw in the silver man's eyes. His face was pale and his mouth was open slightly, leading the cat to believe he might have figured something out. Feeling a bit uneasy, Train leaned forward so he could meet the man's gaze and gave him a concerned look. "What's wrong, Creed?"

Creed looked at his beloved and took a deep breath. "I… I think I know what THBC stands for…" He waited for the rest of the room's eyes to be on him. "I'd recognize those initials anywhere. It has to mean Train Heartnet, Black Cat. They have your DNA, remember, Train?"

The Black Cat felt his eyes widen as well, understanding now what his former partner pieced together. "That means… CDIM3 could stand for-"

"-Creed Diskenth Imagine Blade 3…." Eve finished his sentence, feeling the same coldness take over her as it did Train and Creed. "But… How would that have gotten Creed's DNA?"

"Considering how long he lived in that castle for, there are thousands of ways." Lin spoke as he dug through a few more papers, feeling like their breakthrough would be complete with this particular paper he remembered reading. When he found it, he pulled it out and slapped it in the center of the table for everyone to see. "This one mentions what's needed to make THBC and CDIM3 to work… And if what we're thinking is true… I don't think it bodes well for us."

Creed and Train shared a look then read the paper together. Their eyes widened and Train leaned back in his chair, running his fingers through his hair as Creed leaned his elbows on the table and rested his head in his hands. He looked over at his cat and frowned deeply.

"You're right, Train… This is our fault…"

Train didn't need Creed to elaborate what he meant as he gave him a tired look. He knew they couldn't talk about what his ex-partner was hinting out in front of Lin, but he nodded in agreement. "Yeah… We can't let them do this…"

Sven and Eve were confused and took the paper Lin placed in the center of the table. Eve felt her body go numb as Sven made a strangled noise at what he read.

"CHILDREN!? THEY NEED CHILDREN?! FOR WHAT?!"

"Why the hell would I know that, Sven?!" Train yelled as he slammed his fist on the table, glaring at his friend who he knew didn't deserve his rage.

Sven sighed and leaned back in his chair, pulling out a cigarette to calm his nerves and hopefully stop his thoughts from going to a dark place. Eve frowned at her guardian and took the cigarette away, then led him to the backdoor so he could smoke outside. She needed some fresh air as well, so she stayed out there with him.

Lin was looking at Train sympathetically before he placed a hand on his knee while his other ran gracefully through his hair, trying to comfort the man who stole his heart. "We won't let them get away with this, Train. Trust Chronos." Lin moved his hand so it was on the cat's cheek, turning so their eyes met as he spoke his last words. "Trust me…"

Train sighed and pushed the man away. He didn't mean to hurt him, but he was honestly too upset to care. Being told to trust Chronos was not something he was willing or able to do, but he didn't want to say that out loud. Especially to someone he might have been starting a relationship with.

Creed watched his love ran his fingers wildly through his chocolate hair, knowing all too well that meant his Kitten was stressed. He patted Train's knee under the table, then squeezed it reassuringly. He knew he couldn't say anything in front of Lin, but he was hoping his smile would be enough to make his beloved feel better.

"It'll be okay, Train…" Creed's voice was quiet as he spoke, but the depths of his love for the Black Cat could be heard loud and clear.

For some reason, what Creed said made him feel better. When the silver man squeezed his knee tightly, Train felt himself relax a little. A small bit of the trust he had for Creed returned in that instant, and he was able to return his ex-lover's smile with a sincere one of his own. He nodded at Creed as he felt a new confidence shining through his body.

---

Translations:

(1) "I love you so much, Train…"

(2) "I missed you so much, Train. Please don't kick me to the side again."

(3) "I told you I'm not a monster Creed."

(4) "But I am garbage. I don't deserve the graces from an angel such as yourself."