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

25. A Confused Cat

There were a lot of issues with FFN last week, so I made an AO3 account. That way, if it happens again, the story will be posted there as well. Feel free to check it out on that site in case this one does not work. However, I will continue to update the story here as well. My used name is the same there (Musal)

Disclaimer: I do not own Black Cat or its characters

CW: Yaoi

---

Sephiria looked through the files Number X had given her with great interest. He'd been following the Black Cat and Creed for seven months now and came back with a lot of information on the Apostles.

Which is good because, other than propaganda videos, they've still been pretty quiet. But, according to all the papers Lin has given me, they've been quite busy.

Three months ago, Shaolee brought her papers that seemed to imply they were creating another creature that was eerily similar to that panther they encountered. However, this one seemed to be using Creed's DNA instead of the Black Cat's. What was more confusing and unsettling was the Tao group was apparently trying to use both of the ex-assassin's DNA for something else. None of them knew what that something else was, but the fact that it involved children did not sit well with Number One.

And the fact that we're sure this involves that damn Doctor does not bode well. I can't believe Heartnet and his sweeper friends were able to collect so much valid information, but it's frustrating neither us nor those sweepers haven't been able to find anything more than that in almost three months.

Lin assured her they were still searching for Allie Hue and her organization. She seemed to be harder to track down than any of them thought possible. Even Chronos had a hard time tracking her down which made her wonder if the woman was staying with the Apostles now. It would make sense since she was clearly supplying them with a lot of weaponry.

Not only that, but she seems to be providing them with some kind of army of children. That makes me sick. The fact that she's now involved in human trafficking has raised the reward on her and would be all the more reason for the terrorist group to hide her.

Sephiria didn't think it was possible for the Tao group to be even more hidden than before, but it was almost as if they didn't exist. She actually might have thought they fell apart after their battle almost seven months ago if it wasn't for the videos they kept releasing. The amount they were showing to the world was troubling especially considering they had gained the support of the media.

Due to that actress' presence in the group, the media has decided the Apostles are a source of benevolent change, even though they are preaching violence. They've managed to not only confirm Chronos' power on the world, but also turn the world against us.

The support for the Apostles had grown tremendously which made Sephiria believe their numbers had grown as well. With the amount of public attention and support they were receiving and how badly they were beginning to condemn Chronos, it was undeniable that there were more people joining their ranks every day.

And Lin's work with those sweepers has helped prove that as well. Allie Hue's documents weren't the only one he's given me. There have been others that imply an increase in their size.

While nothing Number X brought her was indisputable evidence of that, it was heavily hinted at that the woman was also helping them find new members. Whether these members were going to become Tao users or lackeys remained to be seen, but either way Sephiria knew it was not going to make their fight against the Apostles easy. It might be preferable for them to have more lackeys instead of Tao users, but no matter what, it was still more people they would need to fight.

If only we were able to dispose of them back then… We were so close to defeating them, but they ran off so quickly. I don't think they were ready for us seven months ago and now they are clearly more than prepared now.

Sephiria checked the large clock on the wall and saw it was about time for Lin to show up. He checked in twice a month for updates on Creed, even if there was nothing to report. Number One required it since she still wasn't fully convinced Diskenth had changed. So far, everything Lin reported was benign, yet surprising. Creed seemed to be almost a completely different person, which she couldn't help but think had something to do with his departure from Chronos.

Train has clearly had a hand in that as well, but without Chronos' influence, it's like he's turning into who he was truly supposed to be… Or at least I hope that's the case. Not just for Chronos' sake, but Heartnet's sake as well.

Much to Lin's disappointment, Train still seemed to be pretty attached to his former partner. Number X guaranteed her over and over again that they were still nothing more than friends, but Sephiria was starting to think the man was trying to convince himself more than her since his feelings for the Black Cat had escalated to an intense level. It seemed like Train might reciprocate those feelings a bit, but still no where near aligned with that Lin felt.

Lin doesn't want to admit it, but from what he's told me, it appears to be true. However, none of that is my concern. As long as he continues bringing me this information he stumbles upon regarding the Apostles and makes sure Creed doesn't fall off the deep end again, whatever happens with his relationship with the Black Cat is none of the business.

She was also hoping he wouldn't let his feelings for the ex-number get the better of him and cause him to make a mistake. Sephiria was pretty sure she caught him in a lie a few times, but chose not to question the man too much since it hadn't been anything serious. She had a feeling he didn't hand over papers as quickly as he received them which made her believe he was letting Train see them before he gave them to Chronos. She tried not to think about it too much, since she was hoping it wasn't true.

If he has allowed the two former leaders of the Apostles to see any sensitive information about the group they formed, I'm not sure the Elders would be as forgiving to him as they have been to Diskenth and Heartnet.

It was still shocking to her that she was able to convince the Elders to let Creed and Train go. After all, they were the ones that started the organization they were now fighting against. While Sephiria knew Train only did it for revenge he completely had let go of and Creed only did it for Train, that didn't change the fact that it happened.

As long as they continue to not pose as a threat and Lin continues to be open with us, everything will be okay. It has to be. Because if it's not… Lin and his precious cat won't be the only ones to suffer.

She knew her head was on the chopping block as well since she was the one constantly convincing the Elders to go easy on her numbers. If they went down, she went down with them. And she didn't want anyone to suffer from her caring heart.

What a disgraceful leader I am. I shouldn't be Chronos' number one. Not with how much I care about those who work beneath me.

Belze told her repeatedly that was what made her perfect to run the organization. He said her caring nature was what a group like Chronos needed. If their leader was someone who was bent on only killing their enemies and using their underlings as human shields, they would not be creating a better world. They would be creating a terrifying dictatorship where no one had any freedom.

Which is what I know the Apostles are trying to create. I refuse to believe their view of the world is anything more than chaos in which they rule.

Charden was certainly more stable than Creed was when he started the group, but no matter what the blood Taoist's end game was he knew that to get there, chaos needed to ensue. There was no way he was going to dismantle Chronos and expect the world to stay intact once that happened. Even if he believed he was creating a better world, millions would need die to get him there.

They must be stopped. No matter what. I just hope Heartnet and Diskenth stay out of the way. And I really hope Lin isn't showing them such sensitive information.

A light knock at the door signaled to her the man in question had arrived. The woman lifted her head and folded her hands, deciding to put her forms aside in favor of the number she was about to speak to.

"Come in, Number X."

Lin entered and waited for a signal for him to approach. When he saw Number One nod, he walked up to her, standing in front of her desk as he waited for her to tell him he could sit. With another nod of her head, he sat and crossed his legs, making sure to keep his eyes on his formidable leader.

"Good even, Number One." Lin smiled respectfully as he spoke to the woman.

Sephiria nodded and decided to get straight to business. "Any new information on the Apostles?"

Lin shook his head. "No. And we haven't been able to track down Allie Hue. He did hand in Ray Leggan, but I know he wasn't the main goal. He was just some high grade lackey."

Sephiria nodded. "And what about Creed Diskenth? Has he shown any signs of falling off the edge again?"

Lin frowned, as if he was not happy with the news he was going to give her. "No. He's been perfectly fine. In fact, he's turning out to be a really kind person…"

Sephiria cocked an eyebrow at him. "Is this… Not good news?"

Number X shrugged his shoulders. "It is for Chronos."

Not for me…

His relationship with Train had continued to develop, but still not at the speed he wanted it to. He still wasn't entirely sure what the Black Cat felt about him romantically speaking and he was getting sick of seeing his sweet cat reforming the bond he once had with Creed.

I don't understand. How can he actually be forgiving the man that killed his best friend? How can he still care enough about him to want to keep him around. And not just keep him around, but keep him close?

Sephiria frowned at the man. "Has he shown any change in behaviors with your growing relationship with Heartnet?"

"No." Lin answered flatly, trying not to let out how much it bothered him how calm and accepting the silver man has been of their relationship.

Sephiria nodded. "And what exactly is your relationship with the Black Cat?"

Lin smiled a little, happy to talk about what he and Train had. "Train is my boyfriend."

Sephiria blinked, not sure she really believed the man. "Really?"

Lin faltered a little and shrugged his shoulders. "Yes? I mean… He hasn't denied it…"

Sephiria seemed to understand a bit better. "But has he acknowledged it?"

She regretted asking it when she saw the look on Lin's face. He did not respond verbally, but the small shake of his head spoke volumes. Number One felt bad for her lackey, since she could tell how much he cared about Train. His feelings for the Black Cat had matured to almost match the feelings Creed had for Train.

Actually, Lin's feelings most definitely match Creed's. I can't imagine what it's like for Heartnet to have both of them around him at all times. He's very empathetic towards others, so he probably doesn't want to hurt either of them. Which is probably why he hasn't denied or confirmed the label Lin desperately wants them to agree on.

"However, he certainly acts like he's my boyfriend. We spend a lot of time alone together and he willingly accepts my physical and romantic gestures."

We still haven't slept together yet, but we have continued the other sexual aspects of our relationship. I wish he would act at least a little more romantic towards me…

It hurt even more that Train didn't seem to be entirely romantic with him since he kept seeing the cat be flirty with Creed. The bond between them was starting to get stronger every day and Lin didn't like it. Every time he saw his sweet cat unconsciously flirt or touch Creed, he felt a little part of his heart break.

I know how I feel about Train. I love him, but… I can't tell him that when he keeps showing affections for Creed. I know he doesn't know he's doing it, but I can see it clear as day. And I'm sure Creed does too.

Creed didn't make it better by taking every bit of attention Train gave him with as much glee as a kid receiving a puppy for their birthday. The swordsman never said no to any tenderness or touches the Black Cat gave him. Watching the two of them get closer hurt Lin more than he thought possible, but he also knew he had no one to blame but himself.

I told Train that from the beginning. He warned me from the start he wasn't ready for anything serious, but I forced it on him anyway. I know he cares about me and he definitely feels more than just sexual feelings for me, but the fact that he is obviously not over his feelings for Creed makes dealing with my heart nearly impossible.

Sephiria watched as the number seemed to get lost in his own thoughts and cleared her throat to get his attention. Lin jumped and looked at the woman, not aware he had started to look at the floor as he thought sadly about the man he loved.

"Sorry, Number One… It's been… tough…"

Feeling a bit of sympathy for the man, Sephiria tried to show a bit of humanity to her number. "Are you sure you can keep doing this?"

Lin knew she meant if he could keep following Train and Creed and he nodded very firmly at her. "Yes. Please don't pull me out."

I can't stand to be away from Train. Even if he never tells me he loves me or even if he falls in love with Creed again, I don't want to leave him. Ever.

Sephiria saw the confidence in his eyes and nodded. "Good. Because I must say, you are doing a good job. I don't think anyone else would have been able to gather so much information on Chronos as well as get so intimately close with the Black Cat. It's the best way to make sure Diskenth really is changing his thought process."

Lin smiled at her, happy to hear her acknowledge how close he was with Train. "Thank you, Sephiria."

Getting back to business, Sephiria had another question for the man. "Are you positive neither Heartnet or Diskenth has any urge to rejoin the Apostles?"

Lin shook his head. "No. They are both completely done with the Apostles. I am sure of it."

I'm as sure of it as I am that I'm in love with Train. They are definitely done with that group.

Sephiria gave him a curious look and decided to rephrase her question. "Are you positive they are totally done with the Apostles altogether?"

Lin paused for less than a second, then nodded his head again. "Yes. I'm positive."

Sephiria eyed him up and down, not convinced he was telling the truth. "Do you have proof they're done, or is this just your speculation?"

Lin frowned. "My speculation I guess… But, what proof could I show you that would convince you?"

Sephiria shrugged her shoulders. "Nothing comes to mind, but if there is proof we can show the Elders, that would be beneficial to Train." She made sure to only mention Train since she could tell he wasn't fond of Creed. She was hoping if he knew Train's life was in danger, it might convince Number X to tell her more.

While I don't think he's lying to me, I also don't think he's telling me the full truth. As if he's not entirely convinced himself they're done with the Apostles, but… What more could they want out of them?

Sephiria knew Train's moral code would not allow him to rejoin the group. He's against killing and his idea of freedom is completely opposite that of Chronos and the Apostles. She was pretty sure the only difference the Black Cat saw between the two groups was the Chronos as an inevitable force, while the Apostles were a terrorist group bent on imposing their own brand of justice on the world.

Lin felt a bit of fear grip his chest when he heard Sephiria's warning about Train. He knew what she was hinting at and he didn't like it. However, he didn't need his leader to tell him Train would be in danger if they ever found out Lin was showing him the documents before he handed them over. He also didn't need her to tell him that he would be in trouble as well.

But, I don't care about that as much. The worst they'll do to me is put me in confinement for a while. While I would miss Train terribly if that happened, it's better than what they would do to my Sweetness.

He also knew that he wasn't telling Sephiria the full truth. While Train hadn't said anything to the contrary, the fact that he was so interested in anything involving the Apostles concerned him. He was sure the Black Cat didn't want to join the group again, but that just confused him all the more why he was so intent on learning anything about what they were doing.

I'll never tell Sephiria that. It's my secret with Train. I would never do anything that would potentially danger him. I would never forgive myself if anything happened to him… I'd rather give up my freedom for the rest of my life if it meant Train could live peacefully with his sweeper friends.

Lin nodded at his leader. "Understood, Number One. I'll try to find proof for the Elders. Just please… Don't let them hurt Train and…" He looked her in the eyes, so she could see how strongly he felt about the Black Cat. "Please don't take me away from him…"

Sephiria blinked at his straight forward, yet pleading request. She knew he cared deeply for the cat, but she didn't think he'd let it be known to her so readily. It threw her off and she wasn't sure how to respond to such a dedication of his feelings for the Black Cat.

I have to admit, he's got me a bit flustered. And I do not do flustered. Still…

As she looked into his dark, desperate eyes, she felt a pang of pity for the man. She could tell just by the look he was giving her that he had fallen in love with Train. She could also tell Lin was ready to put his life and freedom on the line to keep the cat safe from Chronos which she couldn't help but respect.

She nodded and kept her eyes locked onto Lin, making sure he could see how sincere she was being. "I won't let them hurt Train, I promise. As for you sticking around the sweepers… I don't see any reason why she would pull you out. Having you with them has been nothing but beneficial for Chronos and I know the Elders feel the same way."

Lin smiled gratefully at her. "Thank you, Sephiria. You have no idea how much that means to me."

Sephiria looked back down at her paperwork and waved her hand to dismiss the number. He stood and bowed to her, turning on his heel to leave. Just as he reached the door, he heard the woman's voice, stopping him from leaving.

"Oh last thing…" She waited for him to turn around and gave him a sympathetic look. "...Take care of yourself with the Black Cat, Lin. I know he doesn't want to hurt you, but it might not be something he can help."

Lin stared at her for a minute, then nodded his head sadly. He gripped the door knob tightly, turned it, and left quickly. He knew what Sephiria meant, but he also didn't want to think about it. All he knew right now was he wanted to get back to Train as soon as possible. It had been a few days since he saw him due to having to report back to Chronos and he missed him horribly.

When Sephiria saw the door close, she sighed and read through some more information she had on the Apostles. She frowned as she went through the papers, her mind not really on the files as she sat in silence.

Guard your heart, Number X. Train doesn't understand what he does to people and while I know he won't want to hurt you, that doesn't mean it won't happen.

---

Train stretched wildly as he laid in the lawn in the backyard of their new hideout. Normally, he'd be sitting on the roof, but considering the size and the seclusion their new yard had, he couldn't pass up the opportunity to bask in the sun on the ground. The grass was cold compared to the warm, afternoon sun which Train knew was rare to have since they were a few weeks into December now.

It's getting close to Creed's birthday, isn't it? We should do something nice for him. He's been doing a lot better recently and with all the stress of trying to hunt down Hue, we could all use a break.

Train frowned a little as his thoughts very easily went to his ex-partner. He wasn't sure why that happened, but he knew it had been happening more recently especially in the last few days Lin was gone. Number X took up most of his spare time whenever he was around and with him gone, he found himself spending more time with Creed. One of the reasons he went to the backyard was to clear his head after an encounter he had with his former lover. He was messing around with Creed and the swordsman managed to get a hold of his ticklish areas which set Train off.

And I wasn't just angry. There was a part of me that enjoyed it and that's wrong in more ways than one. Not only am I still not over what he did, but it's not fair to Lin. Whatever I have with him is nice and I shouldn't ruin it because of my conflicted feelings for Creed.

He had been trying to take Creed's advice by replacing his negative thoughts with positive ones, but it was harder than he thought it would be especially when it came to his former partner. They had been getting closer again as Train learned to forgive him more, but he still couldn't break free of this vicious cycle of both hating and caring about Creed. While he knew Saya would want him to forgive Creed, he also knew it was wrong to be so affectionate with the man that killed her.

And now with Lin in the mix, it adds a whole other complicated level. I already know Creed loves me and, even though he hasn't said it, I'm pretty sure I know how Lin feels and between the two of them, I feel like I'm losing my mind.

However, the part of him that tried to concentrate on Lin was starting to feel more and more like he was forcing it so he wouldn't go back to Creed. He knew the silver man would take him back faster than he could ask the question, but that didn't make it right. Creed still killed Saya and there was no getting past that. There was no way he would ever be with the man that killed his best friend.

And even if I wanted to I don't think it would be the same. Even when we're bonding, those memories come back and it ruins the moment. I can't move past that. Saya would want me to forgive him, but anything beyond that is just a disgrace to her memory.

While he enjoyed how Lin made him feel emotionally and physically, it wasn't the same as the time he had with Creed. Train tried to make himself feel more for the number than he knew he did, but he found it impossible. Especially when he kept focusing on whatever was going on in his head about Creed.

At least now when I get caught in that vicious cycle with Creed, I can talk to him about it instead of just walking away. But… That doesn't really make things better. All it does is make me more attached to him. I… I can't do that. I can't do that to Lin, to myself, or to Saya.

He just wished his heart would listen to his head. Train knew he could never love Creed again and refused to ever be with him again, but that didn't stop his heart from yearning for a simpler time. He abhorred the feeling of wanting the man who killed his best friend and he hated himself for having that desire. Again and again he tried to just convince himself it was purely physical since Creed was a very attractive man, but he knew that wasn't the case. After knowing what it was like to have strong feelings for someone, he knew he couldn't hide from them anymore.

But I can hide them from Creed. And Lin. I've tried to talk to him about it just so I at least know I'm trying to be honest with him, but he doesn't want to talk about it. He doesn't want to know I might have feelings for someone else and the fact that he keeps avoiding the subject only makes me think this will end no different than my relationship with Creed did.

One of the things that began the end of his relationship with Creed was the fact that he couldn't talk to him. While Creed's reasons were different than Lin's, it didn't make it better. Creed was hiding a dark, terrible secret from him, but Lin was trying to spare his own feelings. However, the results were the same. If Lin wouldn't talk to him about his confusing thoughts, then things would only get worse and more bewildering to his heart.

Right, I need to make Lin talk about this. I can't let him say no. If he really does want something more out of this relationship, then he needs to listen.

"Train? Are you okay?"

Train looked up from where he laid and saw Creed walking towards him. He sighed and laid back down, closing his eyes as he tried to bask in the sun a little longer.

I don't think I'm ready to talk to him yet, but I guess I don't have a choice. Lin will be back soon anyway, so I may as well get this conversation over with Creed first.

"I'm not sure how to answer that question, Creed. You know what happened."

Creed frowned at his beloved and sat on the ground next to him, making sure to keep his distance since he knew Train was mad.

But… I know he enjoyed it. And he let it go on for so long I thought it was okay… He's been letting me touch him more and more so I thought that meant he was fine.

He glanced at his love, seeing his disgruntled face and sighed.

Guess I was wrong yet again…

"I'm… I'm sorry, Train. I-I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable. I thought… That because you let it go on for so long… Th-that meant you-"

"-Enjoyed it?"

Creed winced at his love's harsh words and nodded. "Sorry, Train… If you give me an inch I'll take a mile…"

Train opened his eyes and raised a brow at him. "Are you saying it was my fault?"

Creed jumped and turned desperately to his beloved. "No! No, not at all! It's not your fault, it's mine. I didn't mean to imply you did something wrong! You could never go anything wrong…"

Train looked at his former lover's sad face and frowned a little, feeling bad for hurting the man yet again. "You keep saying that, but you know it's not true. It's not right that I keep hurting you…"

Creed pulled his legs to his chest and fingered the ground tentatively, never taking his eyes off his Kitten as he spoke. "You don't mean to, Train. It's not your fault I lov-" Creed stopped himself and looked away, knowing Train didn't want to hear him say that. "Sorry… Almost slipped there…"

Train felt his heart beat a little faster at Creed's almost statement. "It's… It's fine, Creed. I know what the truth is. I can't stop you from expressing your feelings."

Creed glanced over at his love, looking into his eyes to read his emotions and smiled peacefully at the obvious orange that rested in his otherwise amber irises. "I appreciate your tolerance, Train, but I don't want to push something on you that you don't want. Especially since… since you have a new boyfriend…"

Train felt his eyes widen at Creed usage of the label since he had never used it before.

I also haven't used it myself or even confirmed it with Lin. But… I guess I can't fight that it's true. Not after everything I've done with him.

He didn't just mean the physical aspect of their relationship. He had been spending a lot of time with Lin and opened up to him a little. Still not nearly as much as he did Creed or Saya, but at least it was a start. While he wasn't comfortable talking to him about his parents, he was able to talk to him about his time with Chronos.

And I try to talk to him about my relationship with Creed, but he refuses to talk about that. Probably because Creed is still a constant in my life, but I would argue that's even more of a reason to talk about it.

Train shook his head and looked back up at the sky. The sun was sitting right above them, warming his face as he tried to address what his ex-partner just said. "I'm still not quite sure that's what it is… But I guess all evidence points to it, doesn't it?"

Creed nodded sadly and rested his head on his knees, still gazing longingly at his beloved. He felt himself subconsciously reach for his Kitten, then pulled his hand away quickly before Train noticed. "You spend all your free time with him, you cuddle with him even when in public, and... You are intimate with each other in only ways lovers are. I think whether you're ready to admit it or not, Lin is your boyfriend."

Train frowned when he realized Creed was able to hear them despite how hard he tried to be quiet. "Sorry, Creed… I didn't want you to hear us."

Creed waved his apology away and held back a sad sigh. "You don't owe me an apology for being happy, Train." He looked at his cat's face, trying to see if what he said was true. "Are… Are you happy, Train?"

The cat stared at the blue sky, trying to think about Creed's question. "I… think so." He sighed and rested his arm on his eyes, blocking the sun he no longer wished to see. "I guess I don't know… It's not the same as-" He stopped himself before he finished the sentence, hoping Creed didn't hear him.

Creed smiled excitedly, knowing his beloved was comparing his relationship with Lin to the one they had.

That's a bad idea, Kitten. Nothing will ever compare to what we had with each other…

Still, he knew he needed to comfort his beloved. It wasn't right to revel in the fact that his cat's new relationship wasn't as fulfilling as the one he had with him. "It's not fair to compare apples to oranges, Train. Each time you fall in love, it's different. Love can never be repeated the same way twice."

Train sat up quickly and looked at Creed. "I don't love Lin."

Creed blinked and stopped himself from jumping in the air happily. "You don't?"

Train shook his head quickly. "No. I care about him and I enjoy his company. He does make me happy, but I don't love him."

That I'm sure of. I know I don't love Lin.

Creed scooted a little closer to his Kitten unknowingly. "Don't worry, Train. It'll happen."

Train looked back up at the sky and laid back down. "...And what if it doesn't? What if I'm just leading him on and end up hurting him?"

Creed shrugged his shoulders, still overjoyed to hear his beloved had not fallen in love with someone else yet and maybe he wouldn't. However, he wasn't going to let his selfish side take over and try to sway his cat back into his arms again.

No matter how much I want that.

"That's a possibility when you fall in love with someone, Train. I'm sure Lin knew that when he fell for you. If he's anything like me, he's just happy to be near you."

Train blushed, not sure if it was at Creed's reminder of his feelings for him or knowing Lin most likely felt just as strongly as he did, but he decided it wasn't worth reading into. It was nice having someone to talk to about this since Lin refused to.

Should I tell him what's been resurfacing about him? Is that wise?

He decided to let things just happen naturally and see what came out during this conversation. Following his instincts hadn't gotten him in trouble yet. "Lin… Doesn't want to talk about stuff like that… He's more interested in just being with me instead of discussing anything that might potentially ruin whatever we have. I can't lie, it's infuriating."

Creed again had to hold back his glee at knowing things weren't going as well with Lin as he originally thought and once again gave his beloved unbiased advice. "If you don't want to hurt him and you want to see where this relationship goes, you can't back down. I don't need to tell you what happens when you keep secrets in the relationship. I know it's not the same as what happened between us, but still, keeping your feelings inside will only put more strain on the relationship."

Train nodded at Creed's words, knowing they confirmed what he already knew he needed to do. "Thanks, Creed." He looked at his ex-lover curiously, seeing how he was trying to hide how happy he was. "...Are you sure you're okay talking about this, Creed? We agreed a while back this wasn't a good topic for us to discuss."

Creed shrugged his shoulders and felt himself moving closer to his love again, not realizing they were almost right next to each other. "As long as I can make you feel better and help you find happiness, Train… There are no limits to what we can talk about. I told you I would always be there for you and I meant it. No matter how much it hurts me, I'll always act as a void for you to scream into."

Train knew he was blushing again and didn't bother to hide it. "Why are you okay with being hurt? Why is Lin okay with being hurt?"

He didn't mean to say those last words out loud, but since he was trusting his instincts right now, he decided it was the right thing to say.

Creed giggled as he moved close to his Kitten, still not aware he was doing that as he glanced at the warm sun resting high in the sky. "Because you're like the sun, Train. Even if it burns our skin, the coldness we feel when it's not near us is worse than if we were ignited by the brilliance of its extraordinary fire."

Train felt himself smile a little, then pushed it away quickly before Creed saw it. "Freezing and being set on fire are still two ways to die. I'm not sure why all your comparisons of your feelings for me have to involve your demise."

Creed giggled and poked his cat in the shoulder. "You know how I love theatrics, Train. It's one of the reasons I'm so affixed to you."

Train raised an eyebrow at the man and smirked. "Are you insinuating that I'm dramatic?"

Creed returned his mischievous smile. "Are you trying to say you're not?"

Train tried to look offended at the man's statement. "How dare you!? I am always in control of everything I do!"

Creed giggled and scooted a little closer. "That doesn't mean your actions aren't dramatic."

Train rolled his eyes and laughed. "This coming from a man who actually almost did freeze to death just so he could keep me warm and didn't have to wake me up."

Creed rolled his eyes as he moved just a little close to his beloved. "Don't forget almost got stomped on by a dinosaur, took on an assault from all of Chronos-twice-and started an entire terrorist group just so you would be happy."

Train gawked at the man as he spoke, not sure how to respond to that. After a few seconds, he chuckled lightly. "I didn't know our drama was a competition."

"Isn't everything a competition to you?" Creed smiled knowingly at his love.

Train returned his smile. "Not everything. I didn't finish that book yet."

Creed frowned. "That doesn't count, you hate to read."

Train shrugged his shoulders and picked up the book next to him to wave in Creed's face. "Yeah, but I'm actually starting to enjoy this. I'm taking so long because I don't want it to end."

Creed whined at his beloved. "But the ending is the best part! You have to finish it!"

Train laughed at his friend's loud complaints. "Look who's being dramatic... again."

Creed glared at his love and poked his forehead rather harshly. "Then I guess I win!"

Train returned his glare, but couldn't hide the joy he felt at Creed's playful gesture. He poked the man's forehead harder than the swordsman poked his. "I thought I told you it wasn't a competition…"

Creed giggled. "And I thought I told you everything was a competition to you. You even poked me harder just now!" He poked his beloved again, trying to egg his Kitten on to prove his point and win their ridiculous argument.

Train tried to make his glare look hasher, but knew he was smiling too brightly to make the expression seem sincere. "Not my fault you're so weak!" He used two fingers to poke Creed this time, both still aimed at his forehead.

Creed poked his cat with his whole hand, this time aiming for his love's cheek instead of his forehead. "Now, you know that isn't true, Train."

Train's smirk widened as he used all ten of his fingers to push Creed's shoulders, pushing the man away firmly as he laughed merrily at his stunned face. "Come on! I'm barely touching you and you're falling."

Creed smirked and whispered his response to his beloved. "I'll always fall for you..."

Train squinted at him, trying to hear what he said. "What was that, Diskenth?"

Creed blushed. "Nothing."

He sat back up and saw his beloved was still laughing at his supposed weakness and seemed to forget he just whispered loving words to him. Glowering at his Kitten, he moved over quickly to the gunman and pushed Train down with both of his hands. Train yelped as Creed pinned him to the ground, both of the swordsman hands his shoulder as he smirked proudly down at his captured Kitten.

Creed felt heat rushing through his body as he looked down at his love, knowing all too well this was a bad position for him to be in, but also not caring. He already lost himself in his love's eyes, relishing the amber that mixed beautifully with orange and red, reassuring Creed that Train was actually enjoying their close contact. His heart raced fast in his chest, his arms and legs shaking as he tried to control him before he did something his beloved would regret.

"Wh-what was that about being weak, Heartnet…?" His voice cracked with lust as he spoke, knowing full well his beloved was able to both see and feel his emotional reaction.

Train felt like a deer in headlights as he looked up at his former lover. He could feel Creed's body reacting to their position and knew it was only a matter of time before his started to do the same. He felt the silver man's arms shaking as they held his shoulders down, knowing he could easily push the other man off, but finding he didn't want to. His heart was on fire and his body was trembling with a craving he hadn't felt in a long time, even with all the intimate encounters he had with Lin.

He didn't hear what Creed said to him and instead unconsciously reached his hand out to run through the man's hair, his body moving on its own as he gently stroked Creed's silky, silver locks. It was as if the swordsman's crystal eyes had placed a spell on him, cursing him to tenderly caress his ex-lover's luscious tresses affectionately for the rest of his days. Train was in a trance as he gazed into those blue irises that used to drive him crazy, beginning to feel a bit of that old love come out at their close proximity.

"You never cut your hair…" Train's voice was quiet as he spoke, not realizing how adoring his voice sounded as he spoke.

Creed smiled slightly, feeling his body moving closer as he stared wistfully at his love's soft lips. "You said you liked it that way, so I kept it long…"

Train didn't feel himself nod as Creed moved closer, his body reacting instinctively as he ran his fingers through the silver man's hair and to the back of his head, guiding him closer as he shut his eyes and pursed his lips a little. When they finally made contact, Train moaned blissfully, his lips sparked a little with excitement, his other hand grabbing Creed's shoulder and pulling him so their chests were pressed against each other.

Creed felt his body collapse on his beloved the second his lips touched Train's. He sighed happily when he felt his Kitten's fingers running through his hair passionately, his love's other hand firmly held his shoulder so he wouldn't move. The kiss was just as intense as he remembered it to be and as Train opened his mouth to allow him access to his tongue, he knew his cat tasted just as good if not better. Creed moaned loudly as he ran his fingers through those chocolate locks he missed more than anything in the world, holding his love as tightly as he could as if this were a dream and Train would slip away at any moment.

The only thing that was different about the kiss was his Kitten's Tao ability coming out through his passion. His lips were hot to the touch and his tongue sparked a little with electricity, giving Creed's body a jolt of excitement he had never felt before. He had kissed Train many times in the past, but knowing his beloved's body could no longer hide the electrical heat of their chemistry made this moment that much better.

Oh, God, Train… I missed you so much…

He knew he shouldn't be doing this. He knew Train belonged to another, but he also knew he couldn't give up an opportunity like this. His beloved was holding him so close, kissing him so deeply, sparking with a profound ecstasy Creed knew he couldn't fake, and purring seductively against his lips. He could feel his Kitten's heart beating violently against his chest and knew Train was just as lost in their embrace as he was. Creed was in heaven as he tasted his love, felt his supple, warm lips against his own, his smooth skin sending fireworks down his spine as he caressed his cheek adoringly. He knew it was wrong, but he didn't care. This was his reuniting moment with his beloved and he wasn't going to let anyone take it away from him.

Train felt one of his legs wrap around Creed's ankle, holding the man more in place as he arched his back up into him. He knew his body was sparking with a libidinous hunger he hadn't felt in so long as his tongue twirled greedily around Creed's. His body hadn't reacted like this since his Tao ability leveled up, but he chose not to think about it. Instead, he concentrated on how good the man's body felt on top of him, how delicious he tasted against his tongue and how amazing the pressure of his lips felt against his own. Kissing Creed felt like drinking water after being stranded in a desert and he needed this union in order to survive.

After a few minutes, they broke the kiss at the same time, then stared at each other breathlessly. Creed's eyes were glossed over as he looked down at his love's flushed, panting face, reveling in the feel of his beloved's breath against his cheek.

"Oh, God, I love you so much, Train…" He ran his hand along Train's cheek and into his hair, his eyes never leaving his love as he spoke. "I missed you so much…"

He was still praying this wasn't a dream. He wanted to ask Train if this was real, but he knew if he did his cat would come out of his stupor and end the moment before he was ready. However, he also knew he would never be ready for this moment to end and wished he could freeze time. Creed knew the second he acknowledged the reality of their kiss it would be over and Train would be in Lin's arms once more.

Once Train caught his breath, his eyes widened as he suddenly came out of his daze, realizing what he had just done and how erroneous his actions were. He pushed Creed off of him quickly and stumbled away from him and across the yard. Train touched his lips, much like he did the first time they kissed except this time he jumped a little when he felt they were still sparking slightly. He looked at Creed in shock, his body shaking as his former partner looked desperately at him, his hand reaching out to try and touch the gunman again as a single tear fell from his eye.

"Train… Train, I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry, Train. I-I… I couldn't help myself... I want you so bad… I love you so much. I-"

"-STOP!" Train yelled as he stood up, backing away a little more from Creed as he put a hand up to signal that he didn't want the swordsman to come any closer. "Just… Stop, Creed. I… I can't do this… I can't handle this…"

Creed frowned and reached a hand out to his Kitten again, feeling like his world was about to fall apart again. "Train, please… Let's talk about it. I hate seeing you so upset. Please, let's jus-"

"I SAID STOP, CREED!" Train yelled, his body sparking again as thunder could be heard in the background.

Creed shut his mouth and nodded his head slowly, looking down to the ground so his beloved wouldn't see the tears falling from his eyes. "Y-yes, Train…"

"Train?"

They both looked over to see Lin standing at the backdoor of their hideout, looking at them curiously. He frowned when he looked at the unstable state his sweet cat was in, then glanced at Creed and noticed the swordsman was refusing to make eye contact with him.

He looked back at Train and tilted his head slightly. "What's wrong? Are you okay?" He looked at Creed again. "Did Creed say something to upset you?"

Train stayed frozen for a second as he stared regretfully at Lin. Suddenly, he moved quickly over to the man, wrapping his arm around his waist and pulling him close, kissing him deeply as the number melted in his arms. Lin clutched at Train's shirt tightly, his knees giving out as the cat dipped him slightly, his whole body erupting in passionate embers as he felt the man he loved more than anything else dive his tongue lustfully into his mouth.

When Train broke the kiss, Lin gazed at him devotedly, not knowing what just happened between him and Creed but also not caring as long as it meant his sweet cat was going to kiss him like that again. He touched his lips, feeling they were still warm from a bit of electricity the gunman decided to add to their reuniting embrace.

"That's new…" He whispered fervidly as he kept his eyes on Train's beautiful, golden ones. "I missed you too, Sweetness…"

Without another word or even a glance back at Creed, Train grabbed the man's wrist and pulled him inside quickly. He wasn't sure what just happened between him and Creed, but he knew he couldn't do it again nor could he stick around the silver man any longer. Right now, he felt guilty and wanted to make it up to the man he was beginning to acknowledge as his boyfriend.

Creed watched as his beloved ran off with Lin and felt frozen to the ground. He wanted to follow his Kitten, but he knew that was a bad idea especially with Lin here. He knew Train was leading the number to his room, probably to get some alone time with the man since he had been away for a few days, but Creed also had a feeling it was to get away from him. His cat was using Number X's presence as an excuse to get out of the awkward situation.

And I can't say I blame him… What the hell is wrong with me?! Why did I kiss him?!

He couldn't help himself. The look in Train's eyes was practically begging Creed to kiss him and he even felt his beloved pull him closer. Train also couldn't hide how he was physically reacting to their kiss. His love's whole body was sparking with concupiscent electricity and of all the times he had kissed Train, it had never been that intense. It was as if the whole world had stopped just so they could enjoy each other's taste.

I wish I never stopped. Maybe if I didn't stop, he would still be with me right now instead of hiding away with Lin in his room.

Creed felt himself starting to panic as he thought about the kiss he shared with his beloved and knowing the man he loved was continuing the intimate session he started with someone else. His heart was racing fast and his head was spinning. He felt like he was going to pass out or throw up and he curled into a ball, slowly rocking back and forth as he imagined what his Kitten was doing with the other man.

I can't stay here. I can't go back in there. I know I'll hear something I'm going to regret. I need to leave. Now.

At that moment, he heard a car pull up in front of the hideout and he knew that meant Sven was back. Since Eve was out with Kyoko and Rinslet, the green haired sweeper was all he had to distract him from his turmoil. It wasn't ideal since he knew Sven was still not comfortable with him, but Creed had a feeling he wouldn't want to be there either when Train let out his venereal urges on Lin. He also knew he needed to get out of there before he did something he was going to regret.

I might barge in there and try to claim Train for my own. Scratch the might, I know I will barge in there and steal my Kitten away from him. I can't control my emotions right now. Not after that kiss.

Creed stood quickly, stumbling a little as he made his way around the house, refusing to go inside for fear of hearing his beloved possibly consummating his relationship with Lin, but knowing he needed to get to Sven before he went inside. This was for him and the sweeper since he knew Sven might regret walking in that door almost as much as Creed would.

Creed ran to the car and grabbed Sven's wrist as he was pulling out his keys. The older man jumped a little and gave him a startled look when he saw the frantic stare in the swordsman's eyes. Before he knew what was happening, Creed was pushing him back in the car and jumping into the passenger seat.

Sven sat frozen as he stared at Creed who buckled himself in and buried his head in his hands, as if trying to hide his face from the sweeper.

"Creed? What the hell is going on?" Sven's voice was angry as he spoke, but he could feel a bit of fearful concern exit his lips as he saw the traumatized state of the man.

"You don't want to go in there. Trust me." Creed spoke quickly and quietly, concentrating on making sure he didn't cry.

Sven frowned. "Why? What happened? What did you do?!"

Creed turned his eyes so Sven would see his face and watched as the older man's angry demeanor faltered almost immediately. Once he saw the sweeper understood how upset he was, he turned away again, looking wistfully at the window to their hideout that led to his love's room.

"...Lin came back today. Just trust me and drive."

Sven blinked at him, then nodded slowly as he turned on the car. "...Where am I going?"

Creed thought about that for a second, then remembered what he had started doing to help clear his mind. With one more glance at their hideout, Creed spoke quietly, trying to hide how hurt he was from Sven.

"Let's go to Anastasia's local studio. I need to let these feelings out…"

Sven glanced at him as he began to drive, deciding not to question the swordsman. He really didn't want to be alone with Creed, especially after seeing how unstable he was right now. There was a part of him that was worried Creed would snap at any minute and attack him, but that was the same thing that made him want to drive away with the silver man. Eve was out with Rinslet and Kyoko right now and he didn't know when they would be back, but he was hoping if he kept Creed away long enough, he would be the only one to feel his wrath if he snapped.

Sighing, Sven drove them away. "Give me an address…"

---

As soon as Train walked into his room with Lin he pushed the man onto the bed and engaged him in the deepest kiss he could possibly give. His hands were instantly on Lin's chest, unbuttoning his shirt with shaky fingers as he desperately tried to get the feel of Creed off of his lips. All he could feel and taste was Creed, so he hoped the deeper and feicer he kissed the number, the faster he would forget what just happened with his former lover.

I enjoyed it. I know I enjoyed it. Hell, I encouraged it! I wanted to do more!

Lin gasped and moaned loudly as the Black Cat's hands ran along his body and ravaged his mouth. As soon as Train started to unbutton his shirt, Lin did the same on him, sliding the golden man's shirt off his back immediately as he massaged every inch of his sweet cat's body that he could. When he felt Train's hands fumbling at his pants, Lin pulled away from the kiss and decided to address the fervoredness of the golden man's advances. Not that he minded having Train attack him in such a lascivious way, but he also needed to know why this was happening.

"Train…" He whispered seductively as he felt the cat move his lips to his neck to suck and nip hungrily at his milky skin. "Where is this coming from?"

Lin gasped loudly when Train bit down harshly on his neck then felt his body shiver as the cat's lips moved to the other side of his face, nibbling at his ear as he returned his sensual whisper.

"Do you want me to stop?"

Lin shook his head promptly and pulled the man closer, holding him stronger against his neck to inspire the Black Cat to suck harder against his warm flesh. Number X ran his fingers through Train's hair eagerly, lifting his lower body a little so the cat could remove his pants and boxers and toss them to the ground carelessly. Lin's pants were soon followed by his shirt that was hanging uselessly from his shoulders as Train continued to assault every inch of his body. Knowing he was now fully naked and Train was not, Lin growled in annoyance and pushed the gunman away, flipping them over so he was on top and began working against the cat's bare chest immediately.

Train moaned loudly as he felt Lin's mouth suck against his nipple violently as his hands unbuttoned his pants rapidly. The cat felt the number's tongue twirl around the sensitive skin of his chest and gasped again when Lin bit it and moved his mouth to begin working at his other nipple. Train felt his breath speeding up as Lin started to pull his pants down, feeling how hard the other man already was as Lin's fully erect penis brushed against his bare thigh. The cat swallowed and pressed Lin's head harder against his chest, crying out again when the number bit and sucked at that nipple as well.

Lin sat up and threw Train pants and boxers to the side as he gazed down fervidly at the Black Cat's naked body. He felt himself moan and quake with desire as he traced his fingers down the golden man's shoulders, to his chest and stomach, finally landing on his pelvis and sliding them back up again. With each flinch, twitch, and gasp the cat get out, Lin felt himself getting more and more worked up. His eyes drank in every inch of the Black Cat, knowing he was drooling as his hands continued to wander Train's body, committing every bit of his sweet love to memory.

Lin already knew his member was throbbing in anticipation and his whole body ached to feel the other man inside him, but he needed their time together to slow down so he could enjoy what he knew was about to happen. He knew where this was going and was more excited than he had ever been, but he desperately needed to remember every second of this, every feel, every twitch, every gasp and moan he heard. Lin didn't care if there was anyone home, he was going to hear Train scream before their time together ended.

When his eyes finally landed on Train's bright, golden ones he saw the cute blush that graced the man's cheeks. Lin sighed zestfully, his whole body melting at the look the Black Cat was giving him, not sure how he was able to hold back for this long before pillaging his body. However, before he got started, he needed to let Train know how he felt. He needed the other man to know he wasn't doing this for anything outside of the pure and true feelings he had for the cat.

Even if he doesn't return my feelings, I need to say this before we consummate our relationship.

Lin leaned over the cat, moving so his face was in front of Train, kissing his lips lightly as he felt his sweet love's member brush gently against his own. He gasped quietly in unison with Train at the brief contact, taking in a deep breath so he could calm his body down before he confessed his feelings for the man.

Lin put both of his hands on either side of Train's face, making sure their lips were still close as he spoke, looking deeply into the Black Cat's eyes as he conveyed his heart's truth.

"I love you, Train."

Train's eyes widened a little at the confession, even though he wasn't surprised. He knew for a while how the man felt, but he had never heard him those words out loud. As he stared into Lin's dark, worshipping eyes, he felt his heart drop as he remembered what just happened between him and Creed. Throughout this whole encounter he had been suppressing the memories of his time with Creed, refusing to give his nostalgic thoughts any clout in what was happening with Lin. But, as soon as he heard the number speak those words, he suddenly felt his whole world falling apart as guilt began to taint his entire body.

He felt Lin kiss his lips lovingly, trailing them down his chin and to his neck, then tracing his mouth along his jawline and back up to his ear, whispering more adoring words to him.

"You don't have to say it back, Train. I just wanted you to know…" He kissed his ear, then his neck, then his cheek, finally landing back on his lips as he gave him another deep kiss before pulling away slightly to look into his eyes again. Lin ran his fingers through Train's hair and against his cheeks, smiling reverently as he finished his sweet sentence.

"I love you, Train Heartnet. I think I've loved you since I first laid eyes on you. I love you so much and so deeply that I don't care if I ever hear you say those words back to me. I won't lie, I want to hear you say it more than anything else, but… As long as you'll let me have you like this, I don't care."

He nuzzled his head against Train's neck, kissing him again as he pulled the cat closer to his mouth so he could continue caressing him softly with his lips.

"I love you so much, Train…."

When Train felt the man going back to his libidinous kisses, he knew he had to say something. He knew this was moving far too fast and he was about to have sex with Lin for all the wrong reasons. If he didn't say something now, he was not only going to hurt the man more than he thought humanly possible, but this whole relationship would become corrupted before it barely started. However, when he felt Lin's mouth against his chest again, kissing and sucking every part of his body his mind went blank again.

"I can live without your love, but I can't live without you. If you were to leave my side, I think I would die."

More thoughts of Creed surfaced and he pushed them aside quickly, refusing to give them any life in his heart as he tried to concentrate on how Lin's mouth was making him feel. Lin paused his kisses at his left peck, spinning his tongue greedily around his nipple as he grinded his lower body into Train. The Black Cat cried out at the feel of their bare members rubbing against each other and gripped the man's back tightly, pulling him closer as his body betrayed his mind and begged for more.

"I've loved you since we were first partnered together in Chronos. It's the only thing I'm grateful to them for. The day I met you, was the happiest day of my life."

Train shook his head and tried to get Creed out of his mind as he tried to enjoy what Lin was doing to him. He felt the number gyrating against him harder now, his mouth still working wondrously against his bare body as the man's hands ran lustfully through his hair. Despite himself, he found his body acting on its own as it accepted all of Lin's motions, constantly hearing Creed's voice speaking loudly in his head.

"The smile of Mona Lisa pales in comparison to yours. The sound of Michael Nyman's The Promise, cannot hold a candle to the sound of your voice. And every romantic language in existence can never express the love I feel for you, my Dear Train."

Lin read what Train's body was asking of him and repeated his gesture again, this time applying more pressure as he moaned into the man's chest. It did it again and again, knowing he was ready for the next level, but wanting to take his time so this moment wouldn't end. His hips started moving faster and faster, encouraged by the cat's loud gasps and moans, praying nothing would happen to end their time together.

There was still a part of him that was worried Train was only doing this because of something that happened between him and Creed, but the animalistic side of him didn't care. The Black Cat's body felt better than anything he had ever experienced before and Train's sounds were more exquisite than the most beautiful choir's singing. He wanted Train more than anything else and right now and didn't care if the man's intentions were not the same as his own. He knew no matter what, he would have him.

Train was in physical ecstasy, but emotional turmoil. He tried to keep his eyes and thoughts on Lin, but found that was nearly impossible, especially after that kiss he just shared with Creed.

"That piece reminds me of you… It's beautiful, yet deadly. Carefree, but sings volumes of a troubled pass and gives a heavy heart to its listener. It holds a fiery passion that demands everyone's attention, yet does not need validation for the beauty it undoubtedly has."

Train bit his lips as he felt Lin's newly lubricated hands move to his shaft, greasing it generously, trying to prepare the Black Cat for what was to come next. However, Train only felt Creed's hands, heard the silver man's words instead of Lin's as he saw his ex-lover sitting in front of a piano, playing him their beautiful promise to each other.

"If you listen closely, the melody does not really change, merely ornaments since there is no need to change what it is at its core. That confidence, that self-reliant, jovial attitude that hums throughout the piece… Is all exactly like you, mon chat…"

When he felt Lin move away from his chest and trail his kisses lower, Train ran his fingers through the man's hair and spread his legs so the number had more room to jerk him off. Lin was working hard to get him ready for their love making, and Train was yelling at himself to tell him before he caused the man an emotional pain he knew all too well and didn't want to put anyone else through.

Lin positioned himself on top of Train, his lower body hovering expectedly above the cat's erect cock as he placed both hands on the side of the gunman's head, resting his forehead against Train's as he gazed eagerly into his amber orbs.

"Are you ready?"

Train stared at the man as another memory rang irritatingly in his head.

"Just do it already…."

Creed kissed his cheek and repositioned himself slightly.

"Okay, Train, you're sure?"

Before Lin lowered himself onto Train and they became one, the cat sat up and pushed the number away slightly, but not enough that his rear end wasn't still floating above his erect cock.

"Wait…" Train said between deep breaths, trying to calm both his body and mind down before he spoke. "Just… Just wait a minute… I need to tell you something…"

Train looked regretfully into Lin's eyes, his heart breaking for the man he felt like he was about to destroy with his next words.

"I kissed Creed."

Lin stared at him for a second, then felt his lower lip quiver slightly from the confession. "When…?"

Train frowned deeply, his chest riddled with grief as he saw the pain in the other man's eyes. "Just before you got here…"

Lin nodded slowly, but still did not move his position on top of the cat. "...Is that what I walked into while you were outside with him?"

Train nodded and looked away from the man. "I'm… I'm sorry, Lin… I don't know what came over me. I don't know what's wrong with me… I can't-"

His words were cut off as Lin finally lowered his entrance onto Train's hard cock, the gunman's thoughts quickly shifting back to sensual ones as he felt the other man's ass tighten around him. The Black Cat reached out and wrapped his arms around the number quickly, instinctively pulling him close as his body began to adjust to a new feeling. This was something he hadn't felt with Creed, which actually made it easier to forget about his former lover.

Lin smirked victoriously as he felt his sweet love tremble against him, knowing he had found something Creed and Train hadn't shared. As soon as he felt the Black Cat's breath quicken against his neck and squeeze him even harder when Lin purposefully tightened his body, he knew he was about to create a memory for the golden man he had never had before. He was about to give Train sensations Creed had not given him.

Number X pulled Train away from his neck, caressing each of his cheeks with his thumbs as he sat on the cat's lap, ready to begin their love making as soon as he told Train one last thing.

"I don't care."

Train blinked at him in confusion and was about to protest when Lin moved his body up and down his cock, his ass clenching even more as he moved the gunman in and out of himself. Lin kissed him deeply, running his hands through the cat's hair as he repeated his motions again, moaning in delight as he felt Train's arms wrap around his waist, pulling their chests so they were pressed against each other.

Lin pulled away slightly, keeping his body bouncing slowly on Train as his lips brushed against the cat's lips as he spoke.

"I don't care… I already told you, don't have to love me in return. If this is all you want from me, I'll happily give it to you."

Lin gasped a little as he increased his movements against Train's penis, adjusting his body a little so the cat's shaft would brush along his pleasurable spot. When he felt the cat's cock throb against it, he threw his head back and cried out in ecstasy, pulling Train's head against his chest as he moved himself up and down again.

"I don't care if you don't love me. Just… Make love to me. Right-" He gasped loudly as he moved himself a little faster. "Now." He moved his body a even faster, kissing Train's lips again as he moaned wildly into his mouth. "We can deal with the future later. But, for now…"

He paused his bouncing motions, sitting himself fully on the cat's lap so he could feel Train's shaft pulse enthusiastically inside of him, looking into those golden eyes he had fallen so deeply for as he spoke of his devotion for the Black Cat once more.

"For now, please… Make love to me… Let me at least pretend you love me. Even if this is just a one time thing, please… Let me know what it's like to be loved by the Black Cat."

As Train looked into those passionate, dark eyes he felt warmth surround his heart. He nodded quickly, kissing the man deeply as he thrust his hips upwards into the man. Lin had already positioned himself so Train was brushing against his pleasurable spot which made his simple thrust feel like heaven. The gunman did it again and again, his groin beginning to boil over with a heat he hadn't felt before.

Train pulled away from the kiss and said one more thing to the man before he let himself go completely. "I've… Never done it this way before…"

Lin nodded and gasped into Train's mouth as he moved his hips up again, feeling the cat's hard member brush against his sensitive spot again, nuzzling his face against the other man's cheek as he spoke. "I know, but that's okay. I'll help guide you. Besides-"

His sentence was cut off as Train thrust into him again, this time staying there for a little before he pulled away and repeated the motions again.

"-It seems like you already know what to do…" Lin wrapped his arms around Train's neck, trying to match his bouncing motions with his sweet love's thrusting rhythm.

Train chuckled between gasps and thrusts, moving his hands so they were on Lin's hips, helping the number bounce his body on top of his penis as the cat spoke seductively into the number's ear.

"Just following my instincts…"

Lin nodded as he felt Train move faster into him, shutting his eyes as he lost himself in the feel of the Black Cat inside of him. "Then just keep listening to them. They know what they're doing."

Lin moved his body a little so that the next thrust Train made into him hit his pleasurable spot dead on. Number X screamed loudly, biting Train's neck harshly, earning him a loud shout as well as Train moved his hips even faster into his entrance. Train used his hands to move the man faster against him, slamming into that spot as hard as he could, bouncing the man on his lap as quickly as he could. Hearing each of Lin's shouts told him he was doing it correctly and encouraged him to go even faster and hit that spot even harder.

"Oh, Train…" Lin gasped as the Black Cat continued to fuck him rapidly. "Oh, God, Train… Faster!"

Instead of doing as he was told, Train stopped suddenly and pulled the man off his lap. Lin protested ferociously as the feelings stopped, then gasped loudly as Train spun him around quickly, pushing the number down so he was leaning on the bed on his hands and knees and penetrated the man's tight ass once more.

Lin moaned loudly as the Black Cat entered him again, this time feeling Train wrap his fingers around his hips, thrusting in and out of him from a better vantage point. Number X screamed in rapture as his sweet cat fucked him from behind, his whole body about ready to explode as he felt Train brush against his spot over and over again. When he felt Train lean over and whisper into his ear, Lin felt ready to burst at the heat of the other man's breath against his ear.

"Am I hitting the right spot?"

Lin gasped loudly as Train continued his thrusting motions and nodded his head quickly. "Y-yes… Just move a little to the right and-"

His words were cut off once more as Train did as he requested and made violent contact with the spot in question. Number X gripped the bed firmly, trying to stop his body from moving too much so Train could make love to him as freely as possible. He arched his back a little and buried his head into Train's pillow, biting down on the object harshly as the Black Cat continued plunging his cock deeply inside of him.

"Oh, God…" Train moaned, glad he was able to think of the man he was fucking instead of Creed for a change. "Tighter…"

The number complied immediately and tightened his ass around the Black Cat's cock and cried out again as Train thrust even faster into him, hitting that spot over and over again, knowing he wasn't going to last much longer. He could feel Train's hand gripping tightly at his hips, moving him back and forth against his shaft, matching it perfectly with his thrusting motions. He knew Train said he had never been on this end of the love making, but from the way he was acting, Lin never would have been able to tell.

"Train!" Lin cried out again, wanting to remind the man of his feelings before he released his seed onto the cat's bed. "Train… I love you…"

When Train heard the other man say those words he felt a new wave of heat rush through his body that encouraged him to move even faster and slam into Lin's ass even harder. The heat in his groin was growing to an inconceivable level and he knew he was only a few thrust away from exploding into the man.

Lin cried out again and pushed himself harder into Train, shutting his eyes as he prepared himself to cum. He concentrated all his thoughts on the Black Cat, allowing the image and feel of Train to consume him. Lin felt his heart ready to burst from the love he felt for the man fucking him, knowing there was no going back after this. He knew he was going to belong to Train for the rest of his life and there was nothing he could do to change that.

I don't care as long as he'll have me. As long as he'll make love to me like this, I don't care if he ever loves. My heart, body, mind, and soul will forever belong to him and no matter how long I live, that will never change.

After Train hit his spot a few more times, Lin threw his head back and screamed into the ceiling, cumming all over the Black Cat's bed as he shouted the man's name loudly into the empty room.

"TRAIN!"

Train felt the man twitch and collapse against the bed, watching as he tried to hold himself up a little longer so Train could finish. The cat thrust into him one more time before releasing his seed into the man, echoing the number's loud shout as he fell on top of him, breathing heavily as he rested his head against Lin's back.

Lin waited until Train pulled out of him to turn around and wrap his arms around Train's neck. He nuzzled his face as close to Train as he could, breathing in his sweet cat as he kissed his soft skin tenderly.

"Oh, Train… I love you so much…" He kissed him again and again, trying to catch his breath between each kiss. "That was incredible…"

Train swallowed thickly and shut his eyes, feeling a bit of his guilt return now that they had finished.

"I'm sorry, Lin… I'm just so confused I-"

His sentence was stopped by Lin's lips as the number kissed him deeply. When he pulled away, he smiled and ran his thumb against his soft, warm cheek. "It's fine, Train. I told you I'll deal with my heart on my own… My love for you is not your responsibility. It's mine." He kissed him again and again, cherishing the moment as he held the Black Cat in his arms. "Thank you for making love to me…"

Train returned his kisses, then rolled so he was lying next to the man. Lin turned over and placed one arm across Train's chest as his other ran gracefully through his chocolate hair. The cat shut his eyes at the soothing gesture, allowing his confused heart a moment of peace as Lin's comforting hands glided along his body.

Train sighed and tried to comfort the man a little with his words. "I know I'm confused and I know I can't tell you I feel the same way about you, but… I want you to know that I am going to try. Whatever this is that we have going feels good and I'm going to dedicate myself to it. I'm going to do my best to commit myself to you and maybe… Maybe I'll be able to give you what you want in the future."

Lin looked hopefully at the cat, his hands stopping their motions briefly as he asked Train a question. "What does this mean, Train?"

Train opened his eyes and looked at the number, smiling compassionately as he spoke. "It means… I'm ready to call you my boyfriend, Lin."

The gesture was so small it would have been insignificant to anyone else, but to Lin it meant more than anything else in the world. At that moment, he didn't even care that Train had just kissed Creed minutes before they made love for the first time. Lin was willing to live in ignorant bliss if it meant he could even have that little bit of dedication from the cat. If having Train as his boyfriend meant forgetting the man he loved was probably in love with someone else, he would graciously throw the pain aside and think only about how happy he felt to be in a relationship with the Black Cat. Even if that relationship was hollow and only existed so Train could continue to live in denial about his feelings for his ex-lover.

"Thank you, Train…" Lin purred as he kissed the man's cheek lovingly, nuzzling his face into Train's neck. "I love you."

Train sighed and kissed Lin's forehead before rolling over and pulling the number tightly against his body. His chest felt heavy as he thought about what he said to Lin. He knew it was true, that he was going to invest everything he had into his relationship with Number X, but he also knew it wasn't for the right reason. He knew he was forcing himself to move on even though he knew he wasn't ready. After that kiss he shared with Creed, there was no avoiding what was really going on inside himself, but he was going to try anyway. That brief moment he shared with Creed was more passionate than his entire love making session with Lin, but he refused to accept that.

I can never be with Creed again. He and I can never hold each other like that again no matter how much he wants it or how much my heart tells me how right it felt. I'm with Lin now and he needs to accept it… I need to move on.

Train knew his thoughts were more to convince himself than anyone else. He knew Creed wasn't the only one that needed to accept that he had moved on with someone new. Whether the cat liked it or not, he knew how he felt, but he wouldn't cave into what his heart selfishly desired. No matter what, he would never allow himself to love the man that killed Saya.

Train glanced at Lin's peaceful, sleeping face and felt his heart break and flutter at the same time. He knew he cared about the man, but he couldn't help but think this was only going to end one way. Train was sure he was going to destroy Lin completely, but it didn't seem like the number cared. On the contrary, it seemed like having Train break his heart later was better than losing the cat now. Despite this knowledge, Train was going to do his best not to. He was going to try to make himself love Lin, even if he had to force his heart, Train was going to try.

I have to… I have to move on… I can't put myself through the pain Creed caused me again. I won't let him hurt me again.

With one last sigh, Train kissed the top of Lin's head and nuzzled his face into the man's dark locks. He hated himself for not returning Number X's feelings and he hated that he gave into his beastial desires knowing that he didn't love him. Slowly, he felt his eyes close, holding the man in his arms close as he tried to focus all his thoughts on Lin, hoping that would replace his dreams with the number instead of a certain ex-assassin.

---

"Why haven't you played anything yet?" Anastasia was staring at her student, not sure why he rushed through the door of her school only to freeze the minute he sat in front of the piano.

Creed jumped and looked at her, shock evident on his face as if he was surprised the woman was sitting next to him. He glanced at her, then at Sven who was sitting in one of the middle seats of the recital hall. Creed told him he didn't have to stay, but Sven said he wanted to see what all the fuss was about. Rinslet and Eve were going on and on about what an amazing player he was, so the sweeper wanted to see if that was true.

Not to mention I want to meet his teacher. If she's really going to help him change, I want to make sure she's legit as well.

The fact that she hated Rinslet actually gave him hope. While Sven knew his job required him to work with the thief, anyone other reasonable person wouldn't have trusted Rinslet farther than they could throw her. She had a sweep on her own head for all the robberies she had committed, and it sounded like she began her life of crime with this woman and her school.

So the fact that she is morally against what Rinslet does for a living is a start. I'll only trust someone who has the cleanest conscious to change Creed Diskenth. Anything less than that is unacceptable.

However, it seemed as though Creed had gotten stage fright the moment they walked in. Sven wasn't sure why since he knew Creed had met with her several times already. Train was still bothering the green sweeper to buy him the madman a keyboard, but Sven wasn't convinced enough yet that his piano playing would help. That's another reason he decided to stay. He wanted to see first hand if there was a change in Creed's behavior when he played the piano.

Besides, he's already got a painters kit and a bunch of journals. Shouldn't that be enough of an outlet for him?

With Train's eagerness to get Creed a portable piano, Sven had a feeling it wasn't, but he wasn't willing to admit it yet. He thought with how upset Creed was when they left the hideout, this would be the best moment to see how well music worked to calm. But, with Creed sitting silently at the piano, Sven was starting to think this was a big mistake.

All he's done is talk to that woman like she is his therapist. He probably just didn't want to be in the house when Lin came back. He's so dramatic.

When he looked at the swordsman's face, Sven could still tell he was upset over whatever happened before they left. He didn't push the subject with the man since they weren't actually friends and he wasn't comfortable talking to him so amicable. Sven also didn't feel like he owed the man anything. Not after what he put both him and Train through.

Honestly, why does Train insist on helping him? I know he feels partially responsible for the man, but he shouldn't. We should just kick him out and let him do his own thing.

Sven knew why that wasn't possible. If Creed really hadn't changed yet, then they were releasing a madman into the world. At least when he was around Train, the cat could keep an eye on him and there was no doubt Creed listened to him above anyone else. While it bothered Sven to have the man around, he understood why it was necessary.

Creed watched Sven's face as a plethora of emotions passed through it, but did not truly register any changes in his demeanor. He was trying hard to get his mind to focus on the piano and his teacher, but it was hard knowing what Train was doing. Creed didn't need to stick around their hideout to know his beloved was making love to Lin. It was clear on Train's face when he left what he planned on doing.

And it's most likely their first time together which is always the most memorable… I couldn't stay for that. Especially knowing I was the reason it happened.

He was aware that he was the one that set Train running into Lin's arms. If he hadn't given into his urges in that moment, he may still be at home with his beloved. Lin would have been there too, but at least Train wouldn't have rushed to bed the number. Creed knew he had no one to blame but himself, which is why he needed to seek out Anastasia and her therapeutic piano lessons.

Except now that I'm here, all I can think about is Train and Lin. All I can hear and see is Train laying in Lin's arms, shouting his name in ecstasy… Kissing him, caressing him… It's torture! I don't know how I could think about anything except my Kitten confirming his relationship with another man.

Creed felt himself start to cry unknowingly as he leaned over the piano. He covered his face with his hands and sobbed into them quietly at first, but his volume grew the more he thought about his beloved with another. Before he knew what was happening, his arms were resting on the keys, playing a horrid chord as he dropped his head onto his arms and cried loudly into himself.

"It's all my fault…" He managed to get out between sobs. "It's all my fault! I lost him because of my own selfishness! I drove him deeper into another man's arms because of my possessiveness! It's… I-It's all my fault…" He choked on a sob and pulled at his hair wildly, trying to get the image of his beloved and Lin out of his head. "I love him so much…"

Anastasia watched him cry for a bit, then finally decided that was enough and slapped him on the back of the head. Creed shot his eyes up and looked at her in shock and offense, not sure why he had just been struck by an old woman. His teacher merely glared at him, grabbing his hands and placing them on the piano to prepare him to play.

"Play Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 23. Second Movement." Her voice was stern as she spoke, making sure he saw the seriousness in her eyes.

Creed blinked at her in confusion, opening and closing his mouth a few times before she got impatient again and slapped his hand. "What's wrong? Don't you know it?"

Creed yelped quietly and took his hand away, rubbing it a little as he shook his head. "N-no, I know it. That's not the problem, it's just…." He gestured to the rest of the stage. "There is no orchestra to play with me."

Anastasia smiled. "You think a skilled pianist practices with an orchestra every day?" She saw Creed shake his head in embarrassment, then smirked. "You don't need an orchestra. Just use that pain in your heart to re-create Mozart's longing and grief. We can find fellow musicians to share in your heartbreaking music another day."

Creed kept eye contact with his teacher and felt himself smile despite his mood. Slowly, he nodded his head, took a deep breath and began playing through the piece. The moment his fingers hit the keys, the magic of music took over and he began to feel his loneliness, longing, and despair pour into the keys. The world faded around him, leaving him with just his sorrow and music. And at that moment, it was all he needed.

He didn't realize it, but when it reached the orchestra interlude, Creed began singing it quietly. The silver man shut his eyes and swayed back and forth as his lips recited from memory the melody the strings and woodwinds played. His hands remained on the keys, fingers ready to step back in as he performed the small orchestral piece on his own, not aware of the shock from both Sven and Anastasia, neither having ever heard him sing before.

The second Creed started playing the piano, Sven's jaw dropped. He knew Rinslet and Eve said the swordsman was good, but they didn't mention how emotional it was just to watch him. When Creed stopped singing and began playing the piano again, Sven felt his heart break, knowing this was the pain the man went through every day. It was painful to watch him work, yet he couldn't look away. It ached his ears and his heart to hear the sorrow that throbbed through Creed's body, yet Sven was entranced. He wanted the music to end so his pain would stop, but at the same time he wanted to hear the music, praying there was a light at the end of his dark, arduous tunnel.

The key changed and the clarinet solo came in, which Creed once again unknowingly sang. He then hummed the flute's solo, which was echoed immediately by his piano playing. Creed sang the woodwinds' solo along with his, then returned to his call and response with the non-existent orchestra. This continued on as the key changed back, the silver man becoming in own accompaniment, allowing him to share his grief with himself. To him, it seemed fitting, as if there was no one else in the world who could ever understand the sorrow he felt. There was no one else who understood how broken he was, how grueling his life was. He wished there was someone else to share his pain in, someone he could play this harrowing piece with, but he knew that was not possible. No one could understand his pain.

As the piece ended, he heard himself humming the flute solo along with himself again, once more wishing he did not have to complete the piece alone. However, he knew that was all he could expect out of life. He had made an agreement with himself long ago that he would be alone for the rest of his life. Without Train, who else would there be? No one else would accept him, no one else would understand him. What was the point in even trying to find someone who was as lonely as he was?

When the piece ended, Creed felt Anastasia's hand on his shoulder. He turned to look into her eyes, seeing the tears that had silently fallen as she listened to him play. "Beautiful…"

Creed smiled at her and realized that he was wrong. He wasn't totally alone. Just by looking at his teacher's empathetic, old eyes, Creed knew she understood his pain all too well. He wasn't sure what her pain was, but he knew it was there. The silver man desperately wanted to ask her what had happened in her past, but he didn't want to impose his curiosity on her. He knew when she was ready, she would tell him.

"Feeling better?" She asked as she patted his shoulder and held back a cough.

Creed looked back at the piano and shrugged his shoulders. "A little? It's not the same without others to play with. I don't play it often for that reason."

Anastasia laughed, then coughed and turned away from Creed as she composed herself. Before he could get too concerned for her, she turned back around and gave him a brazen look. "Didn't really seem like you needed one. Why didn't you tell me you could sing?"

Creed blinked at her, then blushed brightly. "I-I didn't know it myself until just now…"

She smiled. "I think we should start exploring that a bit as well. But for now, why don't I introduce you to some fellow musicians?"

Creed was about to question what she meant, then watched her try to stand up. He saw her cough and was at her side instantly to help her, placing one hand under her elbow and the other on her back to help stabilize her. Once she was up, he helped guide her down the steps of the stage, then down the aisle of the recital hall. As they walked, he glanced at Sven who also looked confused and shrugged his shoulders. The sweeper watched them walk away for a few minutes, then heard the old woman yell at him.

"HEY! Green haired sweeper! You comin' or what?!"

Sven jumped when he shouted at her, but found himself jumping out of his seat and stumbling after them quickly. It was strange how quickly her demeanor changed when she was talking to someone other than Creed. In that moment, Sven was able to see why Rinslet didn't care for the woman. It seemed like she only had a soft spot for people she deemed worthy of her affection.

And I guess I can't deny that his piano playing was incredible. Not to mention his whole mode has changed. He went from utterly depressed and on the verge of breaking down completely so smiling kindly and helping an old woman walk. Maybe there is something to this…

After witnessing what he just witnessed, there was no denying that Train may have had a good idea. What he just saw almost had him convinced to go through with the idea and buy the madman a keyboard.

However, I'm not totally convinced yet. I think sticking around a bit longer might help me finally make that decision.

Sven followed close behind Creed and Anastasia, listening to their pleasant conversation as he kept his mouth shut. It was also amazing how attached Creed had gotten to this woman even after just a few months. She had a way with him, a certain control over Creed Sven couldn't quite figure out. Of course, Train had influence over him, but it was for different reasons. Creed listened to Train because he was still absolutely obsessed with him and would do anything to make him happy.

But, this woman is almost like a motherly figure to him. He goes to her when he's upset and seems to respond well to her advice and demands. He respects her opinion almost as much as he respects Train's and maybe that's a good thing. Creed needs someone other than Train that he can talk to.

Sven knew Creed was closer to Eve and Rinslet than he was willing to admit, and now was no different. He wasn't ready to accept how close the swordsman had gotten to the bio-girl since he was still worried Creed could flip at any minute. What surprised him more was Rinslet beginning a friendship with him. She could barely stand anyone in their group, so it was beyond him how she was able to tolerate Creed. Subconsciously, he believed that meant there was more to Creed than the psychopathic killer he had met all those years ago.

Not willing to accept that yet. No one else saw what he did that night. They don't know what he's capable of. It's bad enough Train is starting to come around again. I don't need to start giving him sympathy as well.

He watched as Anastasia stopped Creed at a door that led to a practice room and knocked loudly. The music coming from behind it stopped suddenly and the door opened, revealing a rather tall, lean man who looked to be about Sven's age. He had long blonde hair that was pulled back in a ponytail and piercing green eyes that fell immediately on Creed, a lewd gleam present in his orbs.

"Oooh, Anastasia, have you brought me an afternoon snack?" The man spoke with a light Russian accent as he set his clarinet down and stepped out of the room, eyes never leaving the silver man.

Creed felt his face turn a bright shade of red as the man scooped his fingers under his chin and turned his head upwards to meet his eyes. He was much taller than Creed, so the swordsman found himself having to crane his neck a little to see him at such a close angle. Creed's face paled a bit when he saw the look in his eyes, knowing it all too well since he had both given and received it on several occasions.

Anastasia rolled her eyes and smacked the other man's hands off Creed's face. "Keep it in your pants, Sergey. His heart belongs to another."

The man named Sergey sighed in frustration then glanced to the side to see Sven. He gave him a disgusted look and spoke again. "With this?!"

"NO!" Sven and Creed screamed at the same time, both equally repulsed by the idea.

Sven then realized how rudely the man had addressed him and suddenly became offended. "HEY! Who asked you anyway?!"

Sergey rolled his eyes and brushed the man aside as if he meant nothing to him, then turned his attention back to Creed. He crossed his arms and gave the silver man a disappointed looked. "So, who's the lucky man?"

Creed felt himself suddenly get sad and looked away, hoping the other man did not see the pain in his eyes. Anastasia did see her student's discomfort and frowned, knowing exactly why he was so turned off by this topic and decided to try and spare him the extra pain. However, she was also aware Creed wanted to be as open about his love as possible, so while he might not have been able to say his name on his own, she knew he wouldn't fault her for summarizing his story.

"Train is the name of the man who has conquered our dear Creed's heart. And let's just say there's more to be desired of the relationship." She spoke quickly, trying to urge her other student that this was not a subject to be pushed further.

Sergey glanced at the woman, then back at Creed who seemed to be relieved that he didn't have to say it. The tall man frowned down at the silver man, knowing that unrequited love all too well and already feeling a bit of a kinship to the handsome man that stood before him. Taking his teacher's hint, he tried to change the subject slowly and hopefully spare this beautiful man his pain.

"Creed's is your name?" He watched as the man nodded his head, but still did not look at him. "Well, I hope that man that has stolen your heart is worth it. V kontse kontsov, takoy potryasayushche velikolepnyy muzhchina, kak ty, zasluzhivayet vsey lyubvi v mire." (1)

Creed smirked and looked at the man out of the corner of his eyes. "Vashi slova, khot' i l'stivyye, ostayutsya bez vnimaniya. YA ne mogu smotret' na drugogo tak, kak smotryu na svoyu lyubov'." (2)

Sergey clutched his chest and leaned back against the doorframe, using it to prevent his swoon from knocking him over. "Oh, and he speaks Russian as well! Anastasia, get him away from me before I throw him over my shoulder and run off with him!"

Creed covered his face, turning his body away slightly to avoid the eager man's flirtatious words. Had he met this man when he was at Chronos, he might have actually taken him up on his offer, just to get out these unrequited feelings from his Kitten. But that side of him was long dead. Now that he had felt himself settle down, Creed no longer had the desire to be with another man in any form.

If I can't be with Train, then I won't be with anyone ever again. My heart, body, mind, and soul are forever Train's… Even if that means none of them will ever be touched again.

He had his fill of sexual partners and fulfilled his animalistic behavior enough for one lifetime. And after knowing what it was like to be with Train, nothing would ever equal up to that. Nothing could ever match the majesty of his beloved, and he wasn't about to taint his memory with Train with someone he barely knew and potentially ruin whatever he had left of his beloved on his body or in his mind with a stranger.

Nothing will ever sound as melodic as my love's voice cracking in pleasure. Nothing will ever feel as beautiful or taste as delicious as my sweet Kitten's skin. Nothing will ever be as magical as spending that intimate time with Train…

Anastasia smacked the tall man's arm, which had apparently reached out to caress Creed's cheek again. "Control yourself, Sergey and begin practicing Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 23. We'll meet at the recital hall in thirty minutes."

Sergey frowned at the old woman and gave Creed another wanton look before turning his attention to Anastasia. "And what if I don't have it?"

Anastasia rolled her eyes again. "Sergey, you are literally a walking musical library. I know you have it."

Sergey shrugged his shoulders and turned away from her slightly. "You know me too well, woman. I'll get right on it." He looked back and Creed, smiling intently as he spoke. "Play the piano, handsome?"

Creed felt himself blush and avoided the other man's eyes. "A little…"

Anastasia smacked him this time. "Stop being modest." She looked at Sergey. "He's a genius."

Sergey looked Creed up and down. "He just keeps getting better and better by the second… Pal'tsy pianista dovol'no umelyye ... Ty kogda-nibud' trenirovalsya na mne?" (3)

Creed felt himself rolled his eyes at the blonde's words. "Sledite za svoim tonom, ser. Khotya on mozhet i ne otvetit' na moyu lyubov', moye serdtse prinadlezhit tol'ko Treynu." (4)

Is this how it feels to be Train? I'm not going to lie to myself, it's a bit… incommodious.

Sergey deepened his frown. "Alas, my heart's desires go unheard once more…" He reached a hand out to run through Creed's silver hair, sighing sadly as he felt the silk, unique locks.

The old woman smacked his hand again. "Oh, it's been heard loud and clear, Sergey. Just get to practicing." Anastasia put a gentle hand on Creed's arm, asking him to continue escorting her down the hallway.

Creed blinked at Sergey, then at the woman and complied with her request. He heard the other man sigh again and close the door, followed almost immediately by muffled sounds the piece Anstasia told him to practice. Creed smiled down at the small woman, enjoying seeing the control she had on the other students at the school.

Why is she asking him to practice that piece? Does she plan on making me my own personal orchestra?"

Creed barely had time to think as they had already reached another practice room which she had knocked on. The silver man glanced back at Sven, who seemed to be just as confused as he was, but also put off a bit by the encounter with that man. Creed wasn't sure the sweeper had the right to be uncomfortable. After all, he was the one being physically and verbally assaulted.

The door opened and revealed almost the polar opposite of Sergey. In this practice room was a small girl, no older than Eve with short, dark hair, dark eyes, and dark skin. She looked up at Creed, then immediately turned to Anastasia and gave her a curious look.

Anastasia smiled at the girl, then reached out and patted her shoulder gently. "Aimee, please practice Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 23. Second movement. If you don't know it, you can find a copy in my office. Be ready to meet and perform it in thirty minutes in the recital hall."

The girl named Aimee nodded, gave Creed another glance, then shut the door. They could hear a French Horn playing the piece behind the closed door and Anastasia nodded, then gestured for Creed to continue walking her down the hallway. That conversation had gone much quicker than the other one, which seemed to please the older woman. Creed was still confused and decided to finally voice his bewilderment.

"Anastasia… What's going on?" He glanced down at the woman he was escorting, curiosity evident in his eyes.

The woman smirked. "I thought someone as smart as you would have pieced it together by now. We're building your accompaniment."

Creed winced a little at her statement, then looked back at the rooms they had just visited. Anastasia could tell her star pupil was concerned about her choices and decided to try and calm his anxiety. "Trust me in who I'm picking. This piece requires those who have experienced great pain. Just like you, they have gone through unspeakable traumas and are able to create music almost as beautiful as yours."

Creed blinked at her. While he trusted the woman, he didn't think it was possible for anyone to ever match his sorrow, and it was evident in his eyes. Anastasia seemed to sense this, and decided to divulge a bit more information about her other students.

"Sergey escaped his country for fear of persecution of his sexual orientation. He had been attacked on several occasions due to this, and after being almost beaten to death on several occasions, he left in hopes of finding a new home where he would be more free to express who he truly was. Aimee is a selective mute. She was abused by her father, then abandoned by her mother and left at an orphanage. She's actually my adopted daughter."

Creed felt his heart drop at hearing those stories, feeling more of a kinship to them both. There was something in both of their stories he could relate to, and he was starting to feel guilty over judging them before he knew them.

Maybe I'm being self centered with my pain… I guess it's not fair to say no one can understand my pain. Train's right, I need to start thinking outside my own bubble.

They reached the next door which, after Anastasia knocked, revealed an older woman. She was younger than Anastasia, but certainly older than both Creed and Sven. She held a violin in her hand as she gave an empty smile to Anastasia.

"Yes, Ms. Willis? How can I help you?" She had a slightly Korean accent, dark hair and eyes, with pale skin. She was rather short for a fully grown woman, only a bit taller than Anastasia.

The old woman smiled kindly at her. "Dae, do you by chance know Mozart's Concerto No. 23?"

Dae smiled and nodded. "Of course! What's the plan?"

Anastasia nodded happily. "We're going to give my pride and joy here a chance to share his pain with others."

Dae then noticed Creed and smiled. "Oh, is this Mr. Diskenth? The prodigy piano student?"

Anastasia smiled again. "Yes. Do you think you can have it ready in thirty minutes?"

The Korean woman nodded. "Absolutely, anything for you, Ms. Willis."

She bowed to Anastasia, then Creed, closed the door quietly and began practicing immediately. Before Creed could ask the question, his teacher answered.

"Both of her children died two years ago. Car accident that was caused by her drunk husband. She spends most of her days here. I forced her to after the first sucide attempt. I refuse to let her out of my sight."

Creed heard himself gasp, then looked back at Sven who was still following them. The green sweeper's eyes widened as well, his face going pale as he seemed to think about how he would react if Eve died. Creed saw Sven shake his head rapidly, trying to rid himself of the depressing thoughts, then take in a deep breath to try and calm himself. Creed felt an aching pain stab at his heart as well as he thought about the same scenario.

I couldn't imagine what life would be like without Eve either… It hurts too much. I can't imagine how he feels.

Creed felt himself about to comfort the man, but found it was too late as his teacher was knocking on the final door.

Before the door opened, Anastasia glanced at Creed. "Do you by chance speak Spanish as well?"

Creed smirked mischievously at her. "Para ofenderme, Anastasia. No te enseñas un sinfín de idiomas solo para saltarte algo tan crucial como el español." (5)

The older woman laughed lightly and patted his arm that still held her. "Why did you learn so many languages?"

Creed blushed and turned away slightly. "To impress Train…"

It worked for a little. He loved the languages I spoke. And then, I blew it...

This one took a little longer for the occupant to open it, but when it did, it revealed a middle aged man who was about a foot shorter than Creed. He was bald with dark eyes and dark skin, his face slightly wrinkled as he looked at Anastasia, face unchanging as he silently looked at the woman standing before him.

"Yes?" His voice had a Spanish accent, his face still unflinching as he kept his eyes locked on the woman.

"Francisco, do you know Mozart's Piano concerto No. 23?"

The man squinted his eyes at her, then at Creed and he was able to see a bassoon resting on a chair in the background. Anastasia elbowed him, causing the silver man to jump a little. He looked down at the woman who was gesturing towards the man and he understood what she wanted him to do.

"¿Conoces el Concierto para piano n. 23 de Mozart?" (6)

Francisco gave him a curious look, then nodded slowly as he eyed Anastasia uneasily. She smiled and spoke to him in perfect Spanish as well. "¿Puedes estar listo para tocarlo en treinta minutos en la sala de recitales?" (7)

He nodded again. "Lo tengo memorizado." (8)

Anastasia smiled. "Bueno. Te veremos pronto." (9)

He shut the door quickly, practicing the piece he was told to practice. Creed turned to his teacher and cocked an eyebrow. "If you speak Spanish, why did you have me translate the first sentence?"

Anastasia laughed, then coughed. "Francisco is a hard one to win over. I figured if he knew you spoke his native language, he'd be more willing to trust you. He left his country seeking protection from gangs in his town. His wife and daughter were murdered. He's actually not even legally here. I've been hiding him."

She spoke the sentence so nonchalantly that Creed had to actually replay it in his head to make sure he heard it correctly. When she pulled him slightly down the end of the hallway and back where they came from, Creed obeyed her silent orders and helped lead her down the hallway. He made eye contact with Sven as he turned, making sure to give him an apologetic look so the sweeper knew he was sorry this was taking longer than he anticipated.

Does she really intend on me playing this piece right here and now with all these people I barely know? What makes her think it'll work?

Creed thought even with his shared trauma background of these people, there was no way they'd be able to perform this piece right on the spot. Practicing with an orchestra required weeks of practice, not hours. It seemed impossible to perform such a heartfelt, somber piece with strangers.

But, I guess I should trust her. I may not have known her long, but she hasn't led me astray yet. She's proven herself time and time again and she most certainly cares about my well being.

They made their way back to the recital hall and Creed led the woman to the stage once more. She gestured for him to take a seat in front of the piano again as she continued making her way back stage. Creed watched her go curiously, then asked his teacher a question. He went through the instruments they just collected and realized they were missing one.

"Anastasia, if we're going to do this, don't we need a flute? We've gotten every instrument the piece requires except a flute." He knew they needed at least two of each instrument, but he had a feeling his teacher was only worried about getting the basics before she worried about adding in everything else they needed.

"Oh, yes, my dear. Good observation! We do need a flute. Luckily, we already have one!"

Creed turned to the back stage where she had slowly made her way to, then once more slowly returned from. In her hand was a small case which he recognized immediately as belonging to a flute. She dragged a chair along with her, which worried Creed so he stood and took it from her, bringing it so it sat beside the piano and helped her sit back down. She smiled warmly at him, then patted his hand kindly as she unpacked the instrument. Creed watched her with concerned eyes.

She seems worse than the last time I saw her. I wish she would tell me what was wrong. I know this isn't just a cold like she insists.

He asked her many times what was wrong, but she refused to answer his question. She always found something else to change the subject to or would just obtusely avoid the questions altogether. Whenever she did answer, she simply told him it was a cold and left it at that. However, Creed knew better. There was something more wrong with her than she let on. It was obvious his teacher didn't want him to worry about her and he learned quickly not to push information from her. She often shut down or lashed out.

I guess that's not much different than how I used to be. Maybe that's why she's so forgiving of my past. That and she's clearly also kept the company of many misfits. Not to mention adopted one. I can't believe I didn't know she had a daughter.

It was strange for him to hear Aimee was her daughter, but Creed knew she wouldn't lie to him. However, curiosity was killing him, so he decided to ask her.

"When did you adopt Aimee?"

Anastasia finished setting up her flute and warming up, then turned to her silver student to answer his question. "About five years ago. My late wife and I always wanted one, but seeing as it was nearly impossible for us to adopt, I decided to adopt in her honor. Besides, Aimee needed a mother in her life."

Creed stared at his teacher as she continued warming up her flute.

Five years ago? Even five years would have put her old enough to be that girl's grandmother, not mother. And did she say late wife? What has this woman been through?

The way Anastasia spoke, it was as if she assumed Creed knew everything about her already. Her tone was so matter-of-fact and it threw him off a little. But, he figured that was probably how she best expressed her emotions. Instead of having meaningful conversations about herself, it seemed like she preferred it to come up organically. As if she didn't want to waste any precious time she had left talking about herself.

That makes sense, but it only makes me more worried there is something more wrong with her than a simple recurring cold.

He built up the courage to ask her again what was wrong with her physically, but heard his thoughts were interrupted by a familiar, lightly Russian accented voice.

"Oh, you look even better sitting behind a piano, prekrasnyy." (10)

Creed looked over to see Sergey walking quietly quickly to the stage, his lascivious look unchanging from when the silver man met him in the practice room. Creed heard his teacher scoff at the man's comments, signaling she understood Russian as well as she addressed her insatiable student.

"Honestly, Sergey, do you have to be so blatant? You could at least leave something to the imagination for the boy if you wish to woo him."

Creed felt himself blush at the woman's words, then even more so when the man in question approached him from behind and wrapped both his arms around his neck, resting his head gently on the silver man's shoulders.

"When you've been so isolated from your true self for so long, it's hard to put the plug back on it so quickly." Sergey whispered the next words in Creed's ears, making the swordsman's eyes widen. "And when I see something so beautiful, it's unfair to deny me a bit of its grace…"

Creed stayed frozen until the man pulled away, but he could still feel his breath against his ear. He took a deep breath and rubbed his face, hoping that would cover up how embarrassed that situation just made him.

Not to mention the fact that he just referred to me as an object. Maybe I owe my Kitten another apology…

The silver man shook his head as Sergey pulled out his clarinet and began playing towards the back of the stage. Next, Aimee came in. She glanced at Sven who seemed to be just as embarrassed for Creed at his encounter with the tall man as he was, then made her way to the stage. She gave Anastasia a small smile, then looked at Creed quickly, then back to her large case holding her French Horn. She unpacked it quickly, then sat at the edge of the stage and put the brass instrument on her lap. She swung her legs on the stage, watching the entrance of the recital hall, knowing there were more people coming.

Dae and Francisco entered at the same time, both of them stepping on the stage and taking out their instruments as well. Within seconds, the stage was filled with skilled musicians practicing beautifully, Creed's teacher included. The silver man looked at Sven with a slightly panicked look on his face, not sure how to handle this situation. He had never performed with a live orchestra before, so he was beginning to get a bit nervous.

Sven had been silent this whole time since he really just wanted to watch and see what was going to happen. The only reason he followed them was because he was too scared of the old woman to say no. He had to admit, seeing all these different people with their tragic backgrounds forming together under the same building with the same passion for music in their hearts was rather nice to watch.

This woman seems to have a knack for attracting strange people. Although I guess I'm no better.

He didn't need reminding of how strange his sweeper group was, Creed and Lin included. It was also kind of comforting to know she was good with all backgrounds of people. That meant not only would she not be scared of Creed, but also might be the best person to help him.

Well, other than Train, but the extra level of help Creed requires of him isn't something Train is ever going to give him again.

Suddenly, Sven felt eyes on him and saw Creed giving him a frightful look. For whatever reason, he felt compelled to comfort the man in some way. After everything he had heard today, including the silver man's piano playing, Sven could feel a bit of a soft spot forming for him. He smiled kindly and nodded, letting Creed know he wasn't mad at being kept away from home longer. He also wanted the swordsman to know he could perform with these people, despite barely knowing them.

Creed let out a long breath when Sven nodded, feeling a bit better getting the sweeper's approval. Ever since he joined their group, Creed had desperately been trying to get the older man's acceptance. He was sort of the father of their rag-tag team, and Creed always felt left out. He knew if he could get on Sven's good side, he would finally be established as a full fledged member of the group.

Thanks' Sven. It's the little things that matter.

Anastasia cleared her throat which brought Creed's attention back to her. He looked at her, then the rest of the group. Sergey was still eyeing him quite salaciously, Aimee looking more towards her adopted mother for the ready sign than Creed. Dae was smiling brightly at him and Francisco barely seemed interested in anything they were doing. Everyone was standing except Anastasia, who was sitting ready with her flute. The rest of the group had their instruments ready to play, just waiting for the go ahead from Creed.

With one more glance at Sven and seeing he was also waiting to hear the music they created, Creed took a deep breath and began to play the piece again. As he started, he saw images of his beloved walking away from him. He saw his cat falling into the arms of another man who very obviously loved him. Creed felt his heart weep with longing and ache, pleading in his mind for Train to come back. Begging his Kitten to return his feelings once more, except this time he used his music instead of his words.

He heard Anastasia come in with her flute solo, reminding Creed that he wasn't alone in his heartache. It was then he realized what the woman's previous words to him truly meant. She too had lost the one she loved, and was letting her pain out through her music as well. Not wanting her to feel alone either, Creed resumed his playing, echoing the heartache the older woman felt through his piano playing.

In the background, he heard Dae's violin, as if she didn't want her pain to stand out, but still needed to be heard, needing to release her agony through her music. Next, he heard Sergey come in with Francisco, the two of them attempting to make their pain sound more optimistic than it really was. As if they two of them didn't want the rest of the world to know how much they had been through. Similar to Dae, they didn't want to outright sing their hurt to the world, but still knew they couldn't hold it in. Creed couldn't help but think of how similar Segey's playing was to the bit of personality he had seen so far. He presented himself as outgoing and optimistic, but the pain in his eyes was too much to ignore.

Creed resumed his solo again, once more thinking of his beloved and what he had done to hurt him. Thinking of how he had broken the only man he could ever love. How he had traumatized his already traumatized cat. How he had ruined something so beautiful between them, burning it to ashes and watched it drift away carelessly in the air. Creed knew he had forced his love away from him, and there was nothing he could ever do to bring him back. However, when he heard the rest of the musicians on stage respond to his heartache briefly, he knew that maybe he wasn't alone. He could hear Francisco's light bassoon playing in the background, which was a nice reminder to Creed he truly wasn't alone in his pain.

When they played together, Creed felt himself bonding with the group of castaways. He may have only just met them, but in the moment, he was able to understand them better than anyone else in the world. In that moment, they shared their pain with each other, letting them all know they were no longer alone. And they would never be alone as long as they had each other and their music.

When the piece ended, all eyes fell on Creed who only just noticed he had been crying. He wiped the tears away quickly, turning away from his fellow musicians and towards Sven. As much as he felt like he had just bonded with these people, he'd rather someone like Sven see him cry than the rest of them. After all, he knew the sweeper had seen him cry several times before.

After a few minutes of silence and allowing Creed time to calm himself, Sergey finally spoke, a bit breathlessly. "I think I'm in love…"

Creed heard Aimee smack the man as he let out a quiet yelp, then a sad whine as Anastasia had clearly thrown him a dirty look. "What did I say about your pants before, Sergey?"

To lessen the awkwardness, Dae started clapping happily. "That was brilliant! Ms. Willis, where did you find him?"

Anastasia placed a hand on Creed's shoulder, gesturing for him to turn around to face her. As always, he listened to his teacher and looked her in the eyes. In that moment, he could tell she understood his pain far more than he realized. She smiled compassionately at him, then patted his cheek gently.

"You're not the only one who has lost their true love. And you're not the only one who has experienced pain. Just remember this, Creed, you're not alone. No matter how true that feeling may be." She turned to the rest of the group and motioned with her hand for them to pack up. "Practice that piece every day. We'll be performing it live in two weeks."

None of the other musicians seemed put off by the late notice, but Creed on the other hand looked as if he had been shot. He watched, dumbfounded as his teacher put her flute away, not sure how to handle this news that was just dumped on him. Especially since the rest of the group didn't seem at all bothered by this hammer than had been dropped on them.

Did she say two weeks?! There's no way I can be ready by then! I've never played in front of a group before. This was the biggest group I've played in front of!

In his stunned state, Sergey had found a way to approach him from the side, leaning down and giving him a small kiss on the cheek. Creed jumped and clutched his cheek, then looked at the man as he laughed and walked away, winking at him as he stepped off the stage. Aimee smacked him again, much like her adopted mother had earlier as Dae giggled brightly and Francisco seemed uninterested in everything that had happened. They left the recital together, all of them talking about what else they would be performing in two weeks along with Creed's big solo.

He turned to the old woman, giving her a frightened look at this new information. "Anastasia… What makes you think I can perform this in two weeks? I don't even own a keyboard yet!"

The woman laughed, then coughed loudly as she leaned back in her chair. "You perform it just now. What makes you think you can't perform it in two weeks?"

Creed frowned at her. "Spontaneously performing for a group of random misfits is not the same as knowing and dreading performing for a group of critical strangers later."

She laughed again, this time able to hold back her cough as she slowly stood. "Stop being so down on yourself and start to see your value. If you don't love yourself, how do you expect someone else to?"

Creed didn't need to know who she was talking about and he felt himself slump a little in his chair. He knew she was right, but it seemed as if she was still convinced he could win Train back. "You speak such sweet words of hope. How else can I convince you that Train will never love me again?"

"And how else can I convince you that he's never stopped loving you in the first place?" She smirked widely at his shocked, yet sanguine look and continued. "The way you've described your bond… It's impossible to believe it will never happen again. I am convinced you are meant to be with your mysterious cat, and there's nothing you or he can say or do that will convince me otherwise."

Creed laughed bitterly and looked away from her. "Even if I tell you he is currently making love to another man?"

She rolled her eyes. "No need to be so candid, but no. That does not convince me. To me, it sounds like he is desperately trying to forget you, but all he's going to do is delay the inevitable and unfortunately break another heart along the way. In anything, I feel worse for that man than you."

Those words pushed Sven out of his stupor. The musicians had placed him under a temporary spell, so he was only just able to key into the conversation Creed was having with Anastasia. Those words struck a chord in Sven, since he had said them to Creed and Eve not long ago.

Does Train really still love Creed? Has he really just been ignoring it out of anger?

He couldn't deny that the two of them had a bond he had never seen before and was pretty sure it was deeper than Train was willing to admit. However, it was hard for Sven to believe Train was still in love with Creed. He knew whatever he had going with Lin wasn't going to last, but he couldn't imagine the cat going back to Creed after what he did to Saya.

There's no way. There's just no way Train would ever willingingly be with Creed again. I can't and won't accept that.

What he could accept was seeing how much better Creed was after their time at the music school. He came in a complete mess, on the verge of tipping over the edge and distraught to the point Sven was willing to be alone with him in hopes that would protect Eve. Now that they were about to leave, Creed was a completely different person. If it was possible, he was even more calm than before. As if music was able to bring out his sensitive, peaceful side.

And maybe, I'm wrong. Maybe there is something more to Creed than what I saw that night. Maybe… Just maybe, that night wasn't who the real Creed was. Maybe Chronos had brought out the absolute worst in him and now that he's away from them, he's able to be his true self.

He knew this was true for Train and he knew he was a bit hypocritical for being able to forgive and accept the Black Cat so easily, but not Creed. The difference was Sven saw the silver man kill someone whereas he had never seen Train so much as hurt another person let alone murder.

But, that doesn't make it fair, does it? Just because I didn't see Train kill anyone doesn't mean it didn't happen. Creed may have always been more unstable than Train, but, if I can forgive a legendary assassin, surely I can forgive an unstable man with a tragic background who may have just made a mistake?

The fact that he was even inclined to entertain the idea of admitting Creed made a mistake was a huge step for him. But, it was something he was able to start thinking about now. After today, Sven was able to see another side of Creed, and he didn't mind this side. In fact, he felt like he might be able to like this side. Maybe even consider him a friend.

And now, I know what I need to do.

He watched as Creed tried to help the woman stand. She declined and insisted she wanted to continue playing her flute in peace.

"Aimee will be back to help me anyway. It's getting late, you should get going. I've kept your strange, green haired friend here long enough as it is."

"HEY!" Sven yelled and stood from his chair.

The woman ignored him and patted Creed's cheek again, and began to unpack her flute once more. The silver man smiled at her and stood. "Thank you, Anastasia. I don't know how I will ever be able to make this up to you."

She smiled up at him. "Just learn to love yourself. That's all I ask."

He nodded slowly. "I'll try…"

Creed turned and stepped off the stage and over to Sven. The sweeper was standing, briefcase in hand and managed to give the silver man a proud smile. "Rins and Eve were right. You're quite a piano player."

Creed smiled in return. "Thank you, Sven. That means to hear that from you." He began to walk towards the door of the recital hall, knowing the green man was following him. "Let's go home."

Sven caught up to him as they stepped outside and towards the car. "Before we do that, let's make a pitstop at the local music store."

Creed blinked at him as he unlocked the car. "Why?"

Sven smirked. "Didn't you hear? You've got a song to perform. We need to get you a keyboard to practice with."

Creed smiled slowly, then felt another tear leave his eye. "Thanks, Sven…."

---

Lin was happy to see he had woken up before Train since it gave him a bit more time to enjoy the view of his cute, sleeping face. The number sighed blissfully and reached out a hand to caress his cheek, then slid his fingers up and through the cat's hair. Train's face was unmoving while he did this, obviously still in deep slumber and unaware Lin was admiring how stunning he looked while sleeping.

How can one person be so perfect on every level?

After finally getting Train to make love to him, Lin knew he was hooked completely. He was certainly enamored with the man before, but after what they just shared together, Lin knew he was even more under the Black Cat's influence, whether that's what Train intended or not.

I know he didn't mean for this to happen. But, as I told him before, that's not his fault. It's not his fault I've fallen so completely head over heels in love with him. And I told him to stop worrying about it and let me deal with it on my own. But… That's getting to be harder every day...

The more Lin was around Train, the further in love with him he fell. It was as if every day, the cat revealed another part of himself unknowingly that Lin found too endearing not to love. As time had gone on, he was sure there was no way he'd ever be able to get over his feelings for Train and he was just happy the gunman was willing to entertain him even on a casual hookup level. Lin knew Train didn't feel the same way about him, but he also knew he had made that bed himself.

And now I have to lie in it. He very obviously doesn't love me and while that hurts, I also don't care. As long as he is with me, I can get him to fall in love with me.

That was something Lin was very confident of and one of the only things that made his unrequited feelings tolerable. His self-assurance that he could make Train love him was the main reason he was so willing to accept the lack of affection the gunman gave him. He was convinced that with time and proper wooing of the Black Cat, his feelings would be returned in no time.

Except, it hasn't been 'no time'. I fell in love with him quite a while ago and it took forever to even talk him into a date. But, I guess it took him a while to return Creed's feelings too, right?

Lin frowned as he continued caressing his new lover's hair and cheek, trying to use the touch of the man he loved to make himself feel better. He told Train he didn't care if he kissed Creed, but the truth was, he did. The only reason he was able to forget the heartbreak was because Train made love to him afterwards. Even if that was Lin's idea, it still happened and no one would ever be able to take that memory from him. Not even Creed. He also knew he wasn't mad at Train and didn't feel betrayed since his sweet love didn't even consider Lin to be his boyfriend until just now.

But even now, it doesn't feel true. It feels like he's forcing himself to be with me or to feel something for me so he can move on from Creed.

Despite whatever Train said, Lin knew Train wasn't fully invested and he also knew it wasn't going to be Train's fault if his heart was broken. Train had been very upfront with him about everything, but Lin didn't need the cat to be as blunt with him as he was. He didn't need to hear the painful truths his boyfriend wanted him to hear because he could see it in Train's eyes. Lin could see Train did not return his feelings and he knew what he was getting himself into when he first talked Train into going on a date with him.

I thought all that Train had left for Creed was just a physical attraction. But now I'm not so sure. Now, I'm starting to think there's something more to his feelings.

Dealing with his intense emotions for the cat was harder than before since it was impossible to ignore the truth anymore. Lin knew, without a shadow of a doubt, there was something more between Train and Creed than the gunman was willing to acknowledge. It was clear to him that his Sweetness was ignoring and denying feelings that had resurfaced in the last few months, and Lin's heart was starting to think it was only a matter of time before it was shattered to pieces. That was another reason he was so willing to accept the inevitable heartbreak the gunman was going to give him. If he was going to lose Train to Creed eventually, at least he could get whatever he could out of him in the meantime.

I'll cling to him as long as I can. And I won't go down without a fight. I won't just hand him over to Creed. He doesn't deserve Train after what he did to him. I just hope my Sweetness continues to see that as well.

Lin smiled and nuzzled his face against Train's shoulder and neck, closing his eyes for a minute as he snuggled as close to the man he loved as possible. Train's arms were still wrapped around his back, but loosely since he was sleeping. However, that fact that he was even in the Black Cat's arms was enough for him. The fact that he was still freely able to caress his silky skin and chocolate hair meant the world to him and made him the happiest that he had ever felt.

It was then Lin realized they were both still naked and felt himself start to get hard at the thought. He pulled his head away slightly from the cat so he could look down at his bare chest and licked his lips. Lin let his desires take over and trailed his fingers up and down the gunman's chest, etching the feel of the cat's strong muscle and smooth skin into his memory.

He reached a lower and felt up the man's thighs as well, moaning as his finger lightly brushed against Train's exposed member, feeling himself ready to lose control over just the idea of the cat's cock. Again, he allowed himself to cave into his desires and traced the tips of his fingers along his lover's shaft, pressing his lips against Train's chest and kissing it gently. He continued his gestures for a few more minutes, silently praying he would wake Train up and they could begin round two, but also just content on fondling the man in his sleep.

I don't think he'd mind. He hasn't turned down any of my sexual advances since our first date.

Lin heard Train moan quietly as he slowly opened his eyes. When Number X saw the cat's eyes open all the way, he smirked and gripped his hand around Train's shaft, making sure he locked eyes with his Sweetness. He saw his lover's eyes open wider and look down in confusion at Lin.

"Wh-what's happening?" Train's words were slurred as he spoke, since he still didn't feel fully awake, even with what Lin was doing to him.

Lin tightened his grip a little and kissed the gunman's chest a little more fervently as he answered the question posed to him. "Round two."

Train blinked and looked behind himself so he could see out the window. "What time is it?"

Seeing as he still hadn't been stopped, Lin continued his motions against his boyfriend. "Why does that matter?"

"Because it looks like the sun is setting. How long was I asle-" He gasped loudly when Lin sucked on his nipple, then twirled his thumb around the tip of his penis.

Lin chuckled lightly as he heard Train moan and pushed himself a little harder into the cat. "Again, I fail to see how that matters. Just let me have my way with you."

Train yelped a little as Lin pushed him back against the bed and began attacking his neck. When the number's erect member brushed against his own he gasped again and tilted his head a little so the man had more access to his neck. Lin took this invitation with glee and nippled at the sensitive skin along his sweet cat's soft flesh, his hand still moving rhythmically against Train's slowly hardening cock.

Train's hands moved to Lin's back as the number began moving his hand faster against him, very obviously trying to entice the gunman's body into making love to him again and the cat was too tired to stop him. It also didn't help that it felt really good and he didn't really want to say no to these feelings. Train felt his breath get faster as Lin grabbed the lube with his other hand and began greasing him up once more.

Train swallowed thickly and ran his fingers along Lin's back as he spoke. "Is anyone home yet?"

He heard Sven's car pull up a while ago, then immediately pull away which made him think the sweeper left with Creed. Where they had gone to, he didn't know. However, he also knew he wasn't allowed to care. Especially not after confirming his relationship with Lin both physically and emotionally.

I can't care about where Creed is. He's none of my business. I need to focus on Lin if I want to move forward.

He gasped again as Lin moved faster, then moaned as the number bit him again. Luckily, the man on top of him seemed intent on keeping his attention off his ex-lover and on his new one. Lin moved his lips from Train's neck and to his lips, kissing him deeply before finally responding to the question.

"Once more, why does it matter? Just let me ride the train again…" He moved his lips back over to Train's ear, kissing it before he spoke in a seductive whisper. "I already bought a ticket…"

After he finished his sentence, Lin gripped the cat a little tighter and smiled widely when he heard his lover moan loudly and spread his legs. The number continued his kisses and just as he was about to insert Train inside him, he heard the door open and Sven's voice loudly entering his ear, completely drowning out the delicious sounds his boyfriend was making.

"No, Creed! Lift and tilt it to the left!" Sven sounded strained as he spoke, as if he was carrying something heavy.

"I am tilting to the left!" Creed retorted, just as aggravated as the sweeper.

"No, my left!"

"Then say that next time!"

Train's eyes widened and he pushed Lin off him instinctively, as if he was about to get caught cheating on his lover. This was absolutely unacceptable to Lin since he was Train's lover and it didn't matter if Creed heard what they were doing. In fact, Lin wanted Creed to know. Even though he knew it would hurt the swordsman, he wanted Creed to hear him and wanted him to know how far their relationship had progressed since he left.

However, as he tried to continue his assault against Train, Lin's body still more than willing to keep going, he felt his boyfriend pushing him off again. He looked frustratingly at the Black Cat who was staring worriedly at the door and took a firm hold of his lover's face. The number turned Train's head so he was looking him in the eyes, letting the cat know how annoyed he was with his current actions.

"Who is your lover? Me or him?" Even Lin was surprised with how angry his voice sounded. He was normally calm and collected, but the idea of Train being so concerned with Creed's presence had set him off.

He shouldn't be hiding what we're doing from Creed!

Train stared in bewilderment at the other man, shocked at how forceful he was with his actions and his words. "...You."

Lin nodded and lessened his hold a little, but did not let go. "Then why does it matter if he knows what we're doing? Why did you have to stop me because he came home?"

Train blinked. "I-It's not just him. Sven if here too. I don't want either of them to hear us."

Lin rolled his eyes, not buying that excuse for a second. "That's not true and you know it. I'm fine if you don't love me and I'm not mad that you kissed him, but if you're going to hide the commitment you just made to me, then I'm going to put my foot down."

Train eyed him curiously, not sure what he meant by that. "What are yo-"

"-I'm saying if you don't tell him, then I will. And I know you don't want that." He was trying to be understanding towards his sweet love, but at a certain point he knew he needed to set boundaries.

And not telling Creed what we are is one of them. If he really is serious about committing to me and giving this relationship a shot, then he needs to be open about what we are. I won't take his little make out session with Creed as a betrayal, but I will take his silence of our upgraded relationship as one.

Train kept looking at him, knowing Lin was right, but also not wanting to hurt Creed. He was still unsure what that kiss he shared with his ex-partner was about, but he also knew he didn't have the time to think about it and that was his own fault.

I was the one that ran off with Lin and slept with him after I kissed Creed. I made sure I didn't have to think about it, but now that the reality is setting in… I don't know what to do.

He also knew lying about what he said to Lin was wrong to both of them. Not only would it unfairly leave Creed in the dark, but it was also unfair to Lin. After all, he did say he was going to commit to Number X and this was the time to prove that. If he was really going to convince himself and Lin that he had moved on from Creed, this was the first chance he was going to have to prove it.

Even if it hurts Creed… I have to. And… I guess we need to put that kiss to bed as well. Before it starts to sit and spoil in a heated silence.

Train sighed and nodded his head, which seemed to be enough to make Lin let him go. However, when the shorter man began eagerly kissing his neck again, Train pulled up away and gave him a stern look.

"No. Not now. The moment is over."

Lin groaned sadly and rested his head against Train's chest. "It's ruined for you, but not for me…"

Lin knew he was still hard, but he could feel his Sweetness had gone soft almost the second his friends came back. It was hard for him to accept, but it seemed like Train was right. The moment had been ruined by Creed, even if the silver man didn't intend for that to happen. He allowed Train to push him off and watched bitterly as he Black Cat began to dress himself

Lin growled quietly.

Damn that man...

He sighed as Train walked towards the door and slid off the bed, putting his pants on sadly then slipping his shirt on his shoulders. He didn't button it, deciding that he didn't care if either of the men outside saw his bare chest and also hoping that Creed would take notice and piece together what just happened between him and the Black Cat.

Although, he probably already figured it out. That's probably why he left in the first place.

Train opened the door and stepped outside, not noticing Lin was following behind with his open shirt. They turned the corner and saw Sven and Creed eyeing an electric piano together, as if assessing what they were going to do with it.

"Is it going to fit down the hallway?" Sven asked as he eyed the instrument.

Creed shrugged his shoulders. "If it doesn't, can we leave it out here? Since it's electric, I can use headphones to practice so I won't bother anyone."

Sven brushed his words away. "If we need to, sure, but I'll be honest, I kind of want to hear you practicing."

Creed gave him a confused look. "Really?"

Sven nodded. "Yeah. It might be nice to bring a little culture into this house."

Creed smiled. "Well, I'm not gonna lie, it's hard to practice when you know people are listening."

"Then you picked the wrong group to travel with. There's always someone nosing around." Sven chuckled as he spoke.

Creed laughed as well. "That's fair." He felt relieved Sven was able to joke around with him. They had a pleasant rest of their day and almost felt like they were becoming friends.

Maybe he'll even let me babysit Eve next time. Although, I don't think she needs anyone watching her. She's a very capable young lady.

Creed stepped away from the piano. "How about I go get a tape measure so we can see if it'll fit before we start fighting it?"

Sven rolled his eyes. "Probably should have done that before we bought the damn thing…"

Creed chuckled lightly. "I don't want to hear complaints because I'm sick of reminding you this was your idea."

The silver man ignored the green sweeper's protests as he turned around to head to the closest to get the tape measure. He stopped when he saw his Kitten standing there, watching the scene with peaceful happiness, obviously glad to see Creed and Sven getting along. Creed was too elated to see Train to realize Lin was standing right behind him and they walked out of the cat's room together. He was in such a good mood after the day he had, he almost completely forgot what happened between them earlier and started to move towards his beloved to embrace him.

"Hi, Train!" He stopped himself suddenly when he finally saw Lin, then noticed the state of the number. His shirt was completely open and his hair was a mess, which Creed knew was odd since the man always made sure to look his best.

Especially when he comes to see Train. So… I guess this means they really did sleep together while we were gone…

Creed knew that was going to happen even before he left, but seeing the aftermath of it only made it all the more real. Seeing the man smiling at him changed Creed's whole demeanor. Even seeing his beloved's gorgeous eyes giving him a concerned look did not help. All he wanted to do was grab his Kitten and scream at Lin that Train was his. He wanted to take Train in his arms and run away from the rest of the world and beg for his cat to love him again. This scene only made all those urges stronger and Creed forced himself to take a step back and look away from his beloved, which was hard to do. However, he knew if he didn't, he was going to do something he would regret.

Train saw his former partner's reaction and felt his heart drop. He knew he had to tell Creed, but it looked as though the man had already figured it out.

Again, I shouldn't care what he thinks. My relationship with Lin is none of his business.

He knew that wasn't true, though. With how deeply Creed loved him, it was cruel not to tell him.

And I'm living honestly and morally right. I can't keep this from him. Still… I wish Lin wouldn't be so obvious about it.

Train ignored his new lover as he stepped behind him and wrapped an arm around his elbow. Instead, he decided to address the scene unfolding in front of him.

"You bought a piano?" He directed the question at Sven, since it seemed like Creed wasn't ready to look at him yet.

Sven nodded and stood up from behind the instrument, either not noticing or not caring about the man that latched onto Train. "Yup. We paid a visit to Anastasia and that ended up being the final push I needed to go ahead with the purchase."

Train nodded, but frowned.

I thought I was going to get him a piano…

He actually planned on getting Creed a piano for his birthday, but it seemed like that idea was thrown out the window now. Train was surprised how much it actually hurt to know his former partner had gone shopping for a piano without him. It also bothered him that now everyone had met Creed's teacher except him.

"...Hopefully I'll get to meet her soon." Train wasn't aware of how sad his voice sounded, but both Lin and Creed did.

Lin frowned and latched onto his boyfriend a little tighter, trying to remind the cat that he was in a relationship with him and not Creed. The swordsman, on the other hand, was immediately knocked out of his stupor when he heard his beloved's melancholy and found the strength to look at him again, needing to know his Kitten was okay.

Creed whined at the sadness he saw in his love's beautiful eyes and tried to comfort him. "I'm sorry, Train… It all happened so fast. I-"

"-What are you sorry for, Creed? Train will meet her in two weeks, won't he?"

All three men looked at Sven when he spoke, the sweeper confused at the three different looks they were giving him. Lin's face was frustrated and strained as he clinged a little tighter to Train. Creed looked shocked and embarrassed, as if he didn't want Train to know about his upcoming, sporadic concert. Train's face was similar to Sven's and he was giving the man a gesture to continue.

Sven smirked greatly, as if he was a proud father. "Creed will be performing at the recital hall. I figured we'd all be going since we'll be staying at his location for a while longer." When he said that, he frowned and looked at the piano. "Maybe I shouldn't have let them convince me out of a portable keyboard… How are we going to lug this thing around?"

No one else was listening to him as all eyes had fallen to Creed. Neither Train nor Lin's looks changed as they looked at the silver man, and Creed felt himself blush a little and nod his head.

"Yes… A-as long as Train wants to come…" He spoke hesitantly since there was a part of him that was scared Train wouldn't want anything to do with him after what happened. Creed braced himself for the rejection, making sure not to look at his beloved.

Train smiled at Creed. "Of course I want to come. Why wouldn't I?"

Creed felt his heart lift and he looked gratefully at his love. Train wasn't acting how he thought he would after the kiss they shared. He was being far too kind and understanding, which only confirmed to Creed even more that his Kitten had sex with Lin.

Train probably got out all of his sexual frustration on Lin and is more relaxed now. That's probably the only reason he kissed me. He must have missed Lin and just took it out on me.

A part of him didn't believe that, but Creed was able to suffocate that part quickly. He had to, otherwise he would clung to the hope that his cat still had feelings for him and he knew if he believed that, he would grab Train and never let go. The fantasy he just had of running away with his Kitten would become a reality within seconds and he wouldn't care what Lin or anyone else thought.

"But, Creed… Isn't your birthday in two weeks?" Train asked, his face strained as he tried to think of the upcoming dates in his head.

Creed blinked, then realization dawned on him. "Oh… I guess it is."

Sven's voice was shocked. "Your birthday is Christmas?! Wait… THE RECTIAL IS ON CHRISTMAS!?"

Train rolled his eyes. "Whatever, it's not like the holiday is a big deal. I just want to make sure that's how Creed wants to spend the day."

Creed smiled adoringly at his beloved and nodded. "Actually… That sounds like a wonderful way to celebrate."

Lin glared at Train, not liking the warm look he had in his eyes when he looked at Creed. There was even a hint of orange, which he didn't see at all while they were making love or Train was committing a relationship to him. Lin pulled on Train's arm, making sure his sweet cat was looking at him instead of Creed.

"Chronos needs me to report back in two weeks. Will you be okay without me, Train?" Lin leaned against him as he spoke, his eyes never leaving Train's.

Train understood what that look Lin was giving him and frowned. His new lover was hinting at asking if Train was going to have another slip up with Creed while he was gone. "Yes, I'll be fine."

Lin nodded and kissed Train's cheek, then rested his head back against the Black Cat's shoulder as he looked back at Creed. The silver man looked away when Lin kissed Train, knowing the number was only doing that so Creed knew where they all stood.

He doesn't need to keep reminding me. I know how it feels to want to lay claims to Train, but I already know what their relationship is. He's just being mean now.

Sven interrupted suddenly, realizing it seemed to just be the men at home. "Are the girls not back yet?"

Lin smiled. "Don't know. Train and I have been busy…"

Creed growled and heard a car pull up. Sven looked out the window and rolled his eyes. "Their ears must have been burning. Shit, how much stuff did they buy?!"

Before Sven could leave the house and yell at him, Train's voice stopped him. "Need I remind you that you just bought Creed a piano? I don't think you're in any position to judge how much money someone else is spending."

Sven threw a glare at the cat and moved back to the piano. "Get the tape measure, Creed. Let's see if it'll fit down the hallway."

Before Creed could follow orders, the front door flew open, knocking Sven to the ground as he stood behind it, revealing a very enthusiastic Kyoko. The teen ran over to Train, completely ignoring Lin as she tackled her crush to the ground. Train let out a strangled noise and tried to crawl away, but the girl had managed to get a tight hold on him.

"KYOKO MISSED YOU, KURO-SAMA!"

Train growled and tried to push her off. "IT'S BEEN LIKE SIX HOURS!"

"That's too long for Kyoko!"

"Get off him!"

Train and Kyoko looked at both Creed and Lin, who were both looking outraged at the girl suddenly appearing and knocking the cat to the ground. Creed looked embarrassed almost as soon as he said it, glancing at Lin in annoyance, then at Train sadly as he walked away quickly, once more trying to get the tape measure for the piano. Lin, on the other hand, reached out and yanked Kyoko off his lover, then reached out to help Train up.

He gave his sweet cat a sad look as he eyed him up and down, his hands carefully checking the back of his head for a bump. "Are you okay, Sweetness?"

Train blinked in the direction Creed walked, then down at Lin's worried face. "I'm fine…."

Lin smiled and gave him a small kiss on the lips, then turned back to Kyoko. "If you're going to stick around my boyfriend, you're going to have to learn to keep your hands to yourself."

"BOYFRIEND?!" Kyoko and Rinslet said together, but with two completely different voices. Kyoko's tone was angry and hurt, while Rinslet's was happy and excited.

Lin covered his mouth when he realized he revealed their relationship status in front of Creed before Train had a chance to talk to him. The number turned to his lover quickly, trying to make sure his eyes looked apologetic. Train gave him a bitter look, then sighed and rubbed his eyes. He knew this sudden revelation was not how he wanted to announce it, but it seemed Kyoko had forced it out of the man.

Train was about to speak when Rinslet jumped in eagerly. "When did this happen?!"

The cat looked at her, then over at Creed who seemed to be trying to hide in the closet while he looked for the tape measure. He sighed and addressed the thief, but did not look at her as he spoke. "Just now…"

Rinslet squeed and ran over to the two men, hugging them tightly as she spoke. "I'm so happy for you both! This is great news!"

When she pulled away, she suddenly realized how insensitive she was being to Creed. It seemed like Train noticed that too since he gave her a stern look, then drifted his eyes regretfully back over to Creed. The cat pushed the woman away and glared at Kyoko before she could protest again, walking over to his ex-lover who was currently still searching uselessly in the closet. Eve was standing behind him, trying to calm down the clearly distressed man.

Train stood behind Creed for a few minutes, watching as the swordsman made a mess of the closet, ignoring the tape measure that was sitting on the ground right next to his feet. "Creed? Can we talk?"

Creed froze, not sure what to say to that but felt his body moving on its own as he nodded his head. He always did whatever Train said, even if his heart was begging for something different. He stood there for a few more minutes before finally turning around and looking at his beloved. When he made eye contact, Creed felt his knees buckle slightly and fought back a painful whimper, forcing his arms to stay at his side for fear of wrapping Train in his arms and crying dramatically for his Kitten to leave Lin and take him back.

Even after what Lin said and feeling my whole heart shattering for the millionth time, I still can't get over how perfect he is. Oh, Train… I wish you still wanted me…

He followed Train as his cat walked away, his eyes on the ground as he stepped out the back door and back into the yard he and his love had just kissed in. Creed felt his eyes lock onto the spot where it happened, reliving the memory as he felt a tear fall down his face.

I'm really happy I got to see Anatasia today…. I don't think I would be able to handle my feelings right now if i didn't…

Creed heard Train clear his throat and turned around rapidly, watching as his beloved gestured for him to follow his cat to the roof. The silver man watched as Train jumped, then allowed himself a quiet, quick sob before leaping after his Kitten. He stayed at the edge of the roof, watching as Train walked towards the center and sat down. Again, Creed's body moved on its own as he walked quickly towards his cat, his broken heart desperately needing to be near the man that was constantly breaking it.

He made sure there was space between them as they sat, pulling his knees up to his chest, knowing they were about to have a difficult conversation. The only thing that comforted him right now was knowing he had a piano to go back to. He was sure he was going to need it after this.

Train glanced at Creed a few times before speaking. "I thought you were going to go shopping for a piano with me?"

Creed jumped more at his love's tone than his words. Train sounded a little upset, which is the last thing Creed wanted to do. "I-I'm sorry, Train! It was so last minute. Sven said I needed something to practice on for recital and I didn't want to pass up the opportunity to bond with him a little. If I had known how important it was for you to go shopping with me, I woul-"

The sound of his love's melodic laughter stopped Creed's words and his heart. "It's okay, Creed. I'm not mad. I'm just glad I saw it. I was actually going to surprise you and buy you one for your birthday."

How is he able to change my mood so quickly? Just seconds ago I wanted to throw myself off his roof, and then he laughs and says such sweet words to me and all I want to do is take him in my arms and tell him how much I love him.

Creed nodded. "You don't need to fuss over my birthday…"

He felt Train playfully smack him and blushed at the contact. "We're not going to ignore it, Creed. Stop being so self hating."

His love's words reminded him of his teacher's and he smiled warmly. "Train… Why are you being so kind to me? Especially after what happened earlier…. I thought you'd be mad at me still…"

Train sighed, knowing that they were now getting to the real reason they had to speak. "I guess… Because I feel guilty."

Creed gave his cat a sad look as he turned his head to lean his cheek on his knees. "Because of Lin?"

Train gave him a confused look. "What do you mean?"

Creed smiled warmly at his love. "Because you felt like you cheated on Lin? Is that why you felt guilty?"

Train blinked, then ran his fingers through his hair. "At first… Kind of? We weren't anything at that point, it happened after you left."

Creed nodded slowly, then turned to look back over at the darkening sky. There were clouds in the air, signaling to the silver man some kind of storm was approaching. Based on the chill of the air, he thought it might be snow. He wrapped his arms tighter around himself, trying to protect his physical and emotional body from feeling the cold take over.

"It… Looks like Lin is okay. Did… Did you tell him?" Creed felt more tears fall from his eyes, doing his best to hide them from his beloved.

"Yes." Train said quickly. "And he said he didn't care. Then we-" He stopped himself, realizing he didn't need to give Creed every detail of what happened and finished his sentence in another way. "-Then we became official. It was my choice, Creed."

Creed buried the lower part of his face into his arms, making sure to cover his mouth in case a sob escaped his control. "I'm… Happy for you, Train."

Train sighed and leaned back on his arms. His weather abilities made him more tolerant to different temperatures, so he wasn't aware of how cold it was. "You don't have to lie, Creed. I'm telling you this because I feel like I owe it to you. Especially after what happened."

He glanced at Creed, noticing the man was hiding his face and feeling sorry for him. Train knew what he was going to say would hurt, but it had to be said. "It was a mistake, Creed. It won't happen again."

Creed nodded his head firmly. "Understood."

Train kept his eyes on his ex-partner, frowning as he tried to read his face. It was hard to do since he was shielding so much of it with his arms, but he had a feeling he knew what Creed was thinking. His tone sounded calm, but Train knew he was anything but that.

He probably sounds calm because he was able to play the piano today. And also knowing he has a piano to go to now to let out his pain.

Needing to change the subject to something that would make Creed happy, Train decided to question him about his day. "Did seeing Anastasia today help?"

Creed didn't need to hear his cat say help with what, but he nodded and smiled, even though he knew Train couldn't see it. "Yes. I also think I made new friends."

Train smirked and cocked an eyebrow at him. "Oh, really?"

Creed giggled a little, feeling a bit better knowing his beloved was able to talk to him so cordially so soon after kissing him. "Yes. You'd like them. They're all very strange."

Train laughed, still not realizing how cold it was as he breathed out. "I wouldn't expect you to attract any other kind of person."

Creed smiled and found the courage to look at his love again. "Are you judging my friends before you've even met them?"

Train nodded, but kept his eyes at the setting sun. "Yup. But, in a good way. Can't wait to meet them." He glanced at Creed quickly, feeling himself blush as he asked another question. "So… What song will you be playing at the recital?"

Creed smiled sadly at his love. "It's not the one you're thinking of." He watched as his Kitten let out a breath of relief, then continued. "It's Mozart's Concerto No. 23."

Train shrugged his shoulders. "Guess it was a dumb question to ask since I wouldn't have known what it was by title."

Creed giggled again. "You wouldn't have heard me play this. I haven't performed it in years."

"Are you going to be ready to perform it in two weeks?" Train regretted asking the question when he saw the panicked look on his friend's face. Before he could apologize, he blinked in confusion at the confident nod Creed gave him.

"Yes. Without a doubt. It'll be great." He smirked proudly, knowing his words were true.

Train stared at him for a second, then smiled.

He sounds so confident. That's…. New. Ever since he's calmed down, he's seemed so… Meek. I was starting to worry he was too depressed and self hating to ever see his worth again.

Train turned his smile to the sky as he spoke. "You know… I haven't met Anastasia yet, but I can already tell what a great influence she has been on you. I'm glad you met her."

Creed turned to his Kitten, happy to have the subject off himself and on his teacher. "She's really great. Kind of like Sephiria, except older. Except she likes me."

Train laughed loudly at that and fell back on the roof, not noticing the happy sound Creed made upon seeing him so juliant. "I don't think Sephiria hated you. If she did, she wouldn't have lifted the price on your head."

Creed rolled his eyes. "She only did that because he cares about you. It has nothing to do with me."

Train shrugged his shoulders. "Only partially. I think it might have started off that way, but I think she's starting to at least pity you. I know that's not what you want, but coming from Sephiria, I think it might be the best you can get."

Creed chuckled sourly. "Well, I guess Lin is letting her know I'm not a threat."

An awkward silence took over the air as Creed ended his sentence. He kicked himself mentally for bringing up Train's new lover, especially after his Kitten was able to change the subject to something so friendly.

"...We need to be able to say his name without it being weird if we're going to be friends." Train's voice was compassionate as he spoke.

Creed nodded slowly. "I know… And, I'll try, Train. It's just… hard."

Train sighed. "What if we don't talk about our relationship, but we can talk about him?"

Creed shook his head. "No. You can come to me with anything, Train. Even if it's about a new love."

The Black Cat let out a long breath, then leaned back against the roof, putting his hands behind his head. "I didn't say I loved him…"

Creed looked at his beloved sadly. "But did he say he loved you?" Train's silence was all the confirmation he needed. He pushed aside the heartache, saving it as inspiration for later when he took his sorrow out on his piano. "Then it's only a matter of time…"

"...And what if it never happens?" Train was starting to think this was the case, and if Creed really wanted to talk about everything with him, he wasn't going to pass that up. Creed was always able to give him sage advice and he was happy to see that part of their bond was still there.

Creed smiled knowingly at his cat. "I think you know the answer to that and why I can't tell you what it is."

Train paused, then nodded. Creed was a biased party to their relationship, so he could never tell Train what should become of his future with Lin. All Creed could do was fake happiness for them and smile fictitiously.

"It looks like you're getting closer to Sven now." Train tried to change the subject again, knowing this one would get them nowhere. "That's good, right? Does it seem like he's starting to trust you?"

Creed smiled and nodded. "I think maybe a little. I think he saw what a change I undergo when I play the piano and knew this was good for me. I also think he might have seen a bit of who the real me is and maybe he sees I'm not a monster."

Even though I am…

Train was happy at first to hear Creed speaking highly of himself, then rolled his eyes. "Stop that, Creed. Self hate will get you nowhere. You need to actually believe those words before you start throwing them out there willy nilly."

Creed giggled. "Willy nilly?"

Train narrowed his eyes at the man. "Yeah? What's wrong with saying 'willy nilly'?"

Creed shrugged his shoulder and smiled teasingly at his beloved. "I've just never heard you use that phrase before. It sounds weird."

Train pushed him playfully. "Don't judge me, Diskenth! I'm a free cat! I can say what I want."

Creed laughed and resisted the urge to push Train back, knowing that's what got him in trouble before. "If you want to sound like an old Englishman, sure, do as you please. But, as your friend, I'm here to let you know that you sound ridiculous and you should never say it again."

Train shoved him again. "Shut up…"

Creed smirked at his love.

Make me…

He kept the flirtatious dare to himself and looked up at the sky. Creed blinked a little, then jumped when he felt a snowflake smack him gently in the cheek. He looked over at Train who was smiling cheekily at the slowly falling snow and felt the heat in his heart warm his cold body. He shivered as he watched his love beam brightly at the sky, sitting on his hands in hopes of warming them. Creed wanted to go inside, but watching Train look up at the sky so innocently was just too cute to pass up.

Train stood up and reached his arms in the air, as if he could grab the individual snowflakes. "This snow is weak!"

The cat shot flakes of snow from his fingertips, laughing merrily as he spun around on the roof, allowing his childish side to come out in that moment. When he stopped, he looked at Creed and shot a blast of snow at him, earning him a loud gasp followed by a joyous laugh as the silver man wiped the snow from his face and hair.

"That's not fair! The snow hasn't accumulated enough for me to get revenge!"

Train shrugged his shoulders and aimed at him again. "Oh well!" Before he attacked the man again, he frowned when he saw him shiver. "Are you cold?"

Creed tilted his head a little, his body shaking again despite himself. "You're not?"

Train shook his head. "Not really. My body doesn't really feel temperature changes."

Creed glared at him. "So I cuddled you to keep you warm that night and got sick for nothing?!"

Train laughed and smirked at Creed. "Oh, I think you got something out of that night."

Creed widened his eyes at his love, holding back a happy squeal when he saw his Kitten blush brightly and look away.

Did Train just flirt with me?! Oh, that makes up for everything else! Thank you for that bit of decorum, Kitten!

He was so elated at his beloved's behavior that he didn't notice Train was approaching quickly. When his cat reached out and took a hold of his hands, Creed jumped at looked earnestly at his love. Train avoided looking the silver man in the eyes as he sparked his hands with a dark blue, trying to warm up his former partner's fingers before they got too cold.

"We should head back inside. I don't feel like being your bed nurse again…" Train knew he was blushing, but decided there was nothing he could do about it.

Creed smiled lovingly, his heart beating fast at the closeness his love created even after sharing such a hard day with him. "That was your choice, Train. Don't try to guilt me for that. I told you I could take care of myself."

Train threw him an annoyed look, but Creed could see the playfulness behind it. "Shut up."

Next thing Creed knew, he was being flashed off the roof with his love, landing them back in the backyard, the thin layer of snow crunching lightly under their feet. Even though they were back on the ground, Train did not let go of Creed's hands and Creed wasn't going to complain. He also wasn't going to be the one to break them apart since he was never going to turn down any bit of physical attention he could get from his beloved.

They stood in the snow for a few minutes, looking deeply into each other's eyes. Creed's were of complete and utter adoration and he could see his cat's glorious golden eyes held an unmistakably pronounced orange. He knew his face was a bright red, which wasn't due to the cold and could see the blush on Train's cheeks as well. Considering his love had just told him he couldn't really feel the cold, he knew it also wasn't due to the weather.

Creed continued gazing longingly into his love's eyes, smiling rapturously and not sure if Train was aware of the fond smile he was giving the silver man as well. In that instant, as he stood there holding his Kitten's hands, he could have sworn time had stopped. As if the two of them had taken this moment to forget everything they had been through to just enjoy the company of each other. To enjoy the warmth and comfort of being near each other, of being able to hold each other even in such a small gesture without a care in the world. As if Creed had never hurt Train and Train did not belong to another.

By the time Train finally let go and walked away, the snow had grown several inches around their feet, signifying how long they had actually been standing there. Creed watched as his beloved approached the house, his brown hair covered in white substance, unaware of how much Train had actually warmed him up through his Tao abilities and his presence. When the cat reached the door, he turned back around to look at Creed and the swordsman felt his heart pound hard against his chest as his beloved smiled sincerely at him.

"How does hot cocoa sound?"

Creed smiled, his whole body on fire from the innocent moment he had just shared with his love. He knew he was actually too warm for the drink, but he didn't care. Hot chocolate simply sounded like another excuse to be near his Kitten.

He brushed the snow off his hair and shoulders as he walked towards the man who had every claim to his heart. "Sounds lovely, Train."

---

Translation:

(1) "After all, a man as devastatingly gorgeous as you deserves all the love in the world."

(2) "Your words, while flattering, fall on deaf ears. I cannot look at another the way I look at my love."

(3) "A pianist's fingers are quite skilled... Ever care to practice on me?"

(4) "Mind your tone, sir. While he may not return my love, my heart belongs to Train only."

(5) "To offend me, Anastasia. You don't teach yourself endless languages only to skip something as crucial as Spanish."

(6) "Do you know Mozart's Concerto No. 23?"

(7) "You can be ready to play it in thirty minutes in the recital room?"

(8) "I have it memorized."

(9) "Good. We will see you soon."

(10) "Handsome."