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

54. Forgiveness

This chapter comes chronologically after the next chapter, but I wanted to break it up a little bit.

Disclaimer: I do not own Black Cat

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Train sighed as he flipped through a pile of paperwork Creed thrust at him almost the second they entered Anastasia's office at the music school. Creed's eagerness to get him to do work confused him since he thought the purpose of going to the school was to test how he would react to returning to the scene of the crime.

But I guess Creed has other plans in mind, and I'm not sure I like those plans if they entail me reading documents I don't understand…

Train was currently laying with his back on the ground, feet resting on the couch as he held papers above his head. He felt like he had read the same sentence a thousand times, and he still didn't understand what it said.

The fact that he was struggling to comprehend what was probably a simple business document made the cat further question what Creed's intentions were for making him read through all that nonsense. However, Creed never did anything without a reason, so Train knew there had to be a good explanation for what he felt like was a waste of time.

Maybe he's giving me busy work to keep my mind off what happened here? If that's the case, I think the fact that we've been here for several hours and I haven't had a breakdown is proof I'm doing better and don't need this busy work. Hell, I haven't had a break down since the last time I saw Doctor Lee! He needs to stop worrying.

Despite his progress, Train could tell Creed was hesitant when he offered to take him to the school, and he understood why. Even though the new antidote had been working exceptionally well the last eight days, bringing him back to the school was still dangerous since it was where he not only witnessed Anastasia's murder, but was kidnapped. Being there could have set his positive momentum back a consequential amount. However, Creed made sure they took it slow and even though Train hated how his partner had to baby him to get him through the door, he understood why he did it.

And he's right, I should be proud of myself! I was able to stand outside the building where I saw Anatasia killed, and I was able to step into the room where the fight started. That's progress.

Train smirked as he remembered his lover's enthusiastic support when Train walked into the building. While he appreciated Creed's help, he couldn't help but roll his eyes at his partner's cheeleadereques response to him accomplishing what should have been a simple task.

Stepping into a building your significant other owns should not be a harrowing experience. I understand my situation is different, but there's no need to throw a party for my small conquest.

It might have been a risk bringing him to the school, but Train was glad they took it since he felt like he needed to come back. Coming back was another step towards healing, and healing was another step towards facing the Apostles… to facing Doctor.

If I can't face him, then we'll never be able to defeat them. And we're so close to being ready.

The numbers and sweepers had healed, and Sephiria was getting antsy. She also pulled back the lackeys protecting the sweeper house to train them, and she was pushing Creed to let Train use his abilities. However, the silverette insisted Train wasn't ready. All Creed permitted him to use was his wind ability, which did nothing to satiate Train's need to be useful. It was clear the silverette wanted to keep him safe, but it was beginning to drive the cat insane.

I'm safe now, and I feel safe too. Hopefully coming back here will show him I'm ready.

Train glanced at his partner who was sitting behind Anatastia's desk, forehead resting in his hand as he scrutinized over what looked to be a complicated pile of documents, paper airplanes scattered around the davenport courtesy of Train's unwillingness to work.

I can tell I'm not the only reason he wanted to come back here. He wanted to come back.

Despite the frustrated look that contorted his handsome features, Train knew Creed was happy to be back to the tedium of running the school. That was another reason why the cat wanted to come back. He didn't want to prevent his lover from being able to run it anymore.

And I know he hates the fact that someone else had to do his job for him. He doesn't like letting someone else take control of something he's more than capable of doing.

Creed's music friends were running the business while Train was taking up the silver man's time with his uselessness, and he hated that. It was bad enough he was burdening his sweeper friends, he hated that his hindrance transcended to his lover's music friends too.

I want to see those crazy musicians again... Especially Aimee. I know Dae has been taking care of her and Creed says she's doing well, but I still want to see her and the rest of them.

When he voiced those desires to his partner, Creed immediately reached out to the musicians and set up a time for them to meet at the school. Train was relieved to hear they were excited to pay them a visit since he wanted to thank them for everything they did Creed and his friends.

And… I need to apologize for not being able to protect Anastasia…

The guilt at not being able to protect Anastasia had been walking hand-in-hand with the trauma he endured while he was held captive, but the trauma made it impossible for him to have the emotional capacity to deal with that and the guilt he felt about the woman's death. However, now that he was recovering, he knew he was ready to face the rest of the musicians.

Whether they forgive me or not, I need to let them know how sorry I am so I can start to move on. And I need to let Aimee know my feelings of remorse more than anyone else…

Even with his friends keeping him company, there was still a part of Train that felt alone in his misery with what happened to Anastasia. Yes, everyone was in pain from losing the woman, but what he and Aimee went through was another level. Only they could truly understand how gut wrenching it was to watch Anastasia's throat get slit.

Aimee is the only one who's forgiveness might alleviate my guilt even a little.

Despite his guilt ridden thoughts, Train chuckled when he saw Creed growl in annoyance at the paper airplanes surrounding him as he brushed several off his desk.

I wonder if he's going to bring up moving in here again?

As much as Train enjoyed living with his friends, he really wanted to live alone with Creed. They discussed moving out before he was taken hostage, and Train desperately wanted to get them back on that path forward.

I don't want to keep taking steps back… So, if he suggests moving in here together, I'll say yes.

Train glanced at the window that looked as if it had been recently fixed, which made sense since he remembered breaking it during his fight with the Apostles. "Who fixed the window?"

Creed glanced at the window quickly, then looked back to papers he was reading. "Sergey. They all did a lot to keep this place running smoothly while we were recovering."

Train nodded, then attempted to read the papers again. "We owe them a lot…"

Creed nodded, but did not look up at his partner as he spoke. "We do. But, be careful when you bring up your indebted thoughts to Sergey. It's bad enough he keeps reminding me of how 'handy' he is, I don't need him to think he can get 'handy' with you as well."

Train chuckled. "We both know that man would only ever use me as a means to get to you."

Creed frowned as he flipped through the papers. "Just... watch what you say to him. I know you're grateful to them all, but that man always has an ulterior motive."

Train smirked at his lover. "Maybe when it comes to you…"

Creed looked up quickly and flung a sour look at Train. "You're so lucky you're cute…"

Train winked at his partner, who sighed and went back to his work. Train, instead of getting back to his work, continued admiring the dapper features his Stallion possessed.

Even when he's in a sour mood, he looks amazing.

Train's eyes trailed to the adorable crinkle that embedded itself on his partner's tense brow and smiled warmly.

Wonder if I can hit it with another paper airplane?

Train folded the paper he was holding into another airplane and aimed it at his lover's forehead. He closed one eye as if that would help him hit his target, then flicked his wrist to launch it at the man. The cat used his wind ability to guide his throw, then twitch his fingers to make sure the tip of his plane hit Creed's small crinkle dead on.

Train threw his hands up victoriously, allowing the paper airplane to fall as he vocalized his joy. "YESSSS! SCORE!"

Creed jumped when the plane hit him, then rubbed his forehead as he glared at his beloved. "Damnit, Train! What was that for?!"

Train smiled cheekily at his partner as he picked up the airplane that hit his forehead to read it. "I wanted to poke that cute crinkle on your forehead, but I was too lazy to stand up."

Creed frowned at the paper, then balled it up, and tossed it in the wire waste basket next to him. "What crinkle?"

Train pointed at the man's forehead as he spoke. "That crinkle right there! You get it every time you're stressed or annoyed. It's adorable!"

Creed continued frowning as he poked at the spoke in his forehead, then sighed when he was unable to feel what his Kitten was talking about. "I don't feel anything."

Train rolled his eyes and picked up another file. "You can't feel it if you're not making the face."

Creed began tidying the mess of papers on his desk. "What face?"

Train leaned up on his elbows so he could get a better look at the silver man. "This face."

Creed chuckled at the eccentric face his lover made, unable to stay mad at Train no matter how annoying he was. "I guess if you think it's adorable, I'll have to make that face more often."

Train smirked and laid back against the floor again. "Nah, you don't need to do that because no matter what face you're making, you always look incredible. It isn't fair how handsome you are."

Creed smirked and leaned on his hands as he stared at his love. "Train Heartnet, are you flirting with me?"

Train glanced at his partner and smiled. "What if I am?"

Creed winked at his love, then sat back in his chair. "Keep it up and I'll show you what will happen." He frowned as he read a document that was written in Mandarin Chinese which, while he could read it, was difficult. "Well… after we finish with this mess that is…"

Train sighed at being unable to convince Creed to stop working.

UGH! Why is the only time I can't get his attention is when I'm trying to get it? Is he ignoring me out of spite?

Train waved the paper he was reading in the air as he spoke his bored thoughts out loud. "Whyyy are you making me do this?! I'm literally the worst person for this job and you know it. I don't have the attention span for this!"

Creed rolled his eyes. "Well, I need to make sure you feel at least somewhat useful while Sven and Eve finish their sweep."

Train pointed harshly at the man. "You're the reason I'm not on the sweep with them!"

Creed gave his love a confident nod. "Yup. Because you're not ready."

Train pouted. "But, it's such an easy sweep… I wouldn't even need to use my Tao for it."

Creed sighed. "Yes, but knowing you, you'd make things more complicated than they needed to be and end up using your abilities anyway. And I don't need to remind you that Sven isn't fully recovered yet."

Train gave Creed a despondent look. "I understand you're looking out for me, Creed, but… Is this-" He waved the papers in his hand for emphasis. "-Really the best use of my time? I need to see some action before I go insane!"

Creed sighed sadly at the anxious tone in his love's voice, but chuckled at the cute, playful pout Train was giving him. "We'll get you back in action soon, Kitten. Just please continue to trust the process and pace I'm setting for both of us."

Train frowned and looked away from his partner. "I trust you, Creed. I'm just restless and all this monotonous paperwork isn't helping."

Creed smiled adoringly at his beloved. "Think of it as a bit of spring cleaning, Train."

Train sighed and let the paper fall on his face. "But it's almost summer…"

Creed giggled. "Yes, but we missed most of spring, so we have to do it now. And later, we need to go through Anastasia's apartment upstairs as well."

Train lifted the paper from his face and gave his panther a strained look. "...What?"

Creed smirked, but did not look at his lover. "You heard me right. That's part of the spring cleaning we need to conduct on this whooole place. Along with her other buildings."

Train let out an exacerbated growl as he thrashed against the floor like a child. "We never even finished going through all those mansions! That alone is going to take forever!"

Creed smiled at his love's childish antics. "Good thing we have forever with each other."

Train glared at his partner as he spoke. "...Is this what my life is going to be reduced to with you? An endless stream of cleaning and organizing?"

Creed smirked. "Yes. And you signed up for it willingly."

Train mumbled under his breath and he folded his arms against his chest, allowing the paper he was reading to fall on his face again. "...This place is your mess, not mine. It's not like we're married or anything."

Creed continued smirking at his beloved even though Train couldn't see it. "Not yet, we're not."

Maybe I should change that…

The thought of marrying his beloved had occurred to him on more than one occasion, but he had never given the idea much clout. However, ever since he rescued Train, Creed found himself thinking about the possibility of legalizing their partnership more and more. Having Train forcibly taken away from him made the urge to keep the cat by his side at all cost almost unfathomable.

I know marriage wouldn't completely guarantee that, but still…

Train pulled the paper off his face, not able to hear what his partner said since he spoke it in such a quiet tone. "What was that?"

His love's question broke him out of his dreamy state and he quickly changed the subject. "Nothing, my Dear Train. Get back to the spring cleaning. The sooner we finish this, the sooner we can move on with the rest of our lives."

Train mumbled under his breath again, even though he knew Creed was ignoring him. "Not if the rest of our lives entail more of this infinite tediousness. It'll be like being stuck in purgatory."

Even though I'm pretty sure my purgatory wouldn't have Creed in it. If he were stuck with me in the after life, I know it wouldn't be anything short of Heaven.

Instead of reading the paper he was holding, Train went back to observing his partner read. Despite his complaints and despite how much he wished he could be on the sweep with Sven and Eve, he was enjoying his quiet time alone with his lover. While he may have wanted to do literally anything else with the man, it was satisfying just being near him.

I'd lay on a bed of nails if it meant I could be next to him for the rest of my life...

Train finally looked away from Creed and back to the document he was holding, then let out a loud, angry growl. "Creed, what the hell is a Theremin?"

Creed did not look up at the cat as he answered the question. "A Theremin is an electronic musical instrument controlled without physical contact by the performer. Why?"

Train waved the paper in the air. "Because apparently you own fifteen."

Creed raised his head and gave the paper his partner was holding a strange look. "Really?"

Instead of responding with words, Train pressed the paper against his chest and began folding it into another airplane. He flicked it in the air towards Creed and used his abilities to land it directly in front of the silver man.

Creed sighed and grumbled a little as he unfolded the paper. "Stop turning Anastasia's documents into paper airplanes. It's going to make it more difficult to get everything in order."

Train smirked at his partner, then gestured towards the urn that was sitting at the corner of the desk. "Oh, come on! She doesn't seem to mind."

Creed glanced at the urn as well. "How do you know if she can't voice any objections?"

Train gasped dramatically. "What a dark thing to say!"

Creed rolled his eyes and threw a balled up piece of paper at his beloved. "It's not dark, it's true. You can't state with such conviction what someone's personal feelings of a matter may be if they physically cannot deny or confirm the truth of it."

Train stopped the paper ball from hitting his face with his Tao, then sent it back at his partner. "You and I both know Anastasia would approve of me doing anything that annoys you!"

Creed smirked as he caught the paper his love launched at him, then dropped it in the waste basket next to him. "I guess I can't deny the truth of that."

Train smiled triumphantly, as if he had just won a battle Creed didn't know they entered. "Then allow me to continue having fun annoying you. In Anastasia's honor."

The Black Cat threw another paper airplane at his lover, who grabbed it from the air and crumbled it in another ball. "And what if I decided to stop letting you annoy me?"

Train pouted. "Then that would dishonor Anastasia."

Creed rolled his eyes and dropped the new paper ball in the trash can. "Not if I found a way to annoy you instead. She'd approve of that as well."

Train laughed as he folded another airplane and readied to throw it at Creed. "I think you'll find it incredibly hard to annoy me. I'm the king of mischievous and hilarity, after all!"

Creed smiled deviously at his Kitten as he subtly stuck his Imagine Blade between the holes of the wired trash can. "I think I'll find a way."

Train laughed again as he continued folding more paper airplanes, readying an army to attack his partner. "Well, if you do manage the impossible, I'll be sure to one up you."

Creed snickered. "We'll see about that…"

Train raised his battalion of planes and threw them at his partner, making sure they were pointed at every angle of Creed's thin frame. "AHA! TAKE THAT, DEMON SPAWN!"

Creed grimaced efficaciously at his beloved's words. "Demon spawn? That hurts, Train. I thought you loved me. For such disrespect, I'm afraid I'm going to have to properly dispose of your childish attrilery of trinkets."

Train frowned as he watched his partner effortlessly lift the waste basket with his level one weapon, the cat unable to see the invisible blade, but knew it had to be the man's sword since Creed didn't use his arms to lift the object. The idea that Creed was using his Tao created weapon was confirmed by the matter at which the bin slashed across the air and caught every one of his painstakingly made planes, literally disposing of them just as the silverette promised.

Train leaned back on his hands as he frowned. "No fair! You're not supposed to fight back!"

Creed giggled as he extended the full basket towards his beloved. "Does that make this all less stimulating for you?"

Train folded his arms against his chest and fell back on the floor, an expert pout on his face stared at Creed. "Yes. You have effectively ruined the fun…"

Creed smiled as he extended his invisible blade towards his love's head. "I'm sorry, Darling. I'm sure you'll find another way to both entertain yourself and annoy me. You always do."

Train didn't notice how close the trash can was to his head since he was too preoccupied with the irritating knowledge that his lover had bested him. "Yeah, I'll think of something…"

Creed smirked as he stretched the can out so it was hovering over top of his beloved. "That's the spirit! In the meantime…" With one swift movement, he flipped the can over, pouring its contents all over Train. "...You can clean up the mess you made in Anastasia's office."

Train yelped as the trash fell on top of him, activating his Cat Claw Nanomachines as he sliced away the paper, creating a flutter of confetti to rain all over him. The swordsman slammed the bin on the cat's head, then pulled his blade out, laughing merrily at his love who yanked the can off his head to glare at the silverette.

"And look at that! You just made it worse!"

Train pointed a denouncing finger at his lover, banana peel resting on his head, his finger still a sharp claw as he spoke. "The mess I created?! You're the one that threw the trash on top of me!" He grimaced and took the banana peel off his head. "Yuk! There was more than just paper in there, Creed! I thought you were supposed to be the clean one?"

Creed continued laughing at his beloved's discomfort. "I'm just giving you back the mess you made in the first place! Those are all the airplanes I deemed useless enough for the garbage."

Train frowned as he set the can on the ground, deactivating his bots as he spoke. "Then doesn't that mean I'm helping you instead of annoying you? I'm weeding out the trash!"

Creed's chuckles slowly faded as he wiped a tear from his eye. "You can do two things at once, Train. While you may have inadvertently been aiding me in my never ending endeavour of organizing Anastasia's paperwork, you've also created more work for me by not telling me what these documents are about before you needlessly threw them at me."

Train sighed as he pulled his legs off the couch, wrapping them around the bin as he spoke. "That's because I didn't know what they said. If you actually listened to me, you'd know I was at least trying to be productive by telling you to read them to see if they were important."

Creed sighed as he reattached his blade to his belt and went back to the papers in front of him. "Don't be silly, Train. I always listen to you. That's why they were in the trash. Because I did as you said and deemed them to be useless dribble."

Train moaned as he leaned his face into the empty can. "Uuughhh, does that mean you've been purposefully wasting my time by having me read superfluous documents?"

Creed attempted to hide his smirk, but knew he was failing. "My Dear Train, I'm offended! I know your time is valuable enough not to waste it on a few pieces of gratuitous documents." He made a neat stack of papers as he eyed his beloved worriedly. "How are you feeling?"

Train blinked at his partner, then smiled warmly at his concern. "I'm feeling… at peace. Bored, but at peace." His loving smile turned into a knowing smirk. "You're trying to keep me distracted with busy work so I don't go to a dark place, aren't you?"

Creed put his hands up defensively. "I have no idea what you're talking about, my Dear Train. I just wanted to bring my partner to my place of work so he could help me continue working through all of that old woman's chaotic jumble of nonsense."

Train's smirk did not leave his face as he began to slowly pick up the papers dispersed around the floor. He kept his eyes on Creed, watching as his lover flipped through the next stack of documents, an adorably sweet smile still delineated across his elegant lips.

I love him so much…

"You know, you need to start using that word more."

Creed lifted his head up from his papers to give his beloved a confused look. "What word?"

Train smiled cheekily as he scooped up more of the crumpled paper balls. "'My'. I don't know if you've noticed, but ever since we got here, you've been referring to everything as Anastasia's. That was the first time you referred to this place as yours."

Creed thought about what his love said, trying to remember the exact phrasing he used and frowned. "Well… This is my place of work…"

Train rolled his eyes at his partner's inability to claim the business as his own. "But the business is also yours. This office is now yours as well. And these papers-" Train grabbed two handfuls of the crushed documents and threw them at his partner. "-Whether you like to admit it enough, are yours. Even though they have her name on it, legally they are yours."

Creed giggled as Train threw more paper at him, the gesture never truly bothered since he knew it was another sign that his cat was getting back to normal. "I know they are my problem. You don't need to remind me."

Train stood up with the trash can in his arm. "That's not what I meant and you know it."

Creed looked out the window as his beloved walked towards him. "I know, it's just…"

Train smiled as he stepped closer, picking up more paper as he made his way towards Creed. "I understand it's hard accepting this place as your own considering the circumstances in which it became yours, but that doesn't change what the truth is."

Train put the bin on the floor as he walked around the desk to stand next to his partner. Seeing Creed's gloomy face was still staring dismally out the window, Train reached out and gently cupped his Stallion's chin, turning the silver man's face to meet his.

Train gave his lover the most devoted look he could, caressing his plush cheek as he spoke. "This place is yours, Creed. Anastasia trusted you with it. And you know what she'd say if she heard you continuing to call this place her's instead of yours."

Creed laughed quietly as his mentor's voice entered his ears. "Yeah, she'd say something like, 'You lazy louse, you're just trying to get out of doing extra work, aren't you? This place is your problem now!' Then probably smack me with her cane."

Train laughed as well and pressed his forehead against Creed's. "Or something like, 'You just want the glory this place provides, but don't want to put in the work it takes to make it successful.' Man, she was good at guilt tripping."

Creed smiled wistfully as he closed his eyes. "It was her super power…"

Train continued smiling at his partner, the all too recognizable heat forming in his chest as he watched Creed's pensive face. "Hopefully her guilt tripping will descend from Heaven and convince you to accept this place for what it is: Yours."

Creed sighed and opened his eyes to lock them onto his beloved's glorious golden ones. "It's… hard, Train. And it's hard to admit that it's hard because-"

Train pressed his finger against Creed's lips before he could finish his sentence. "-Because of what I've been through?" Seeing his lover nod, the cat smiled and kissed the silver man's forehead. "You've been through a lot as well, Creed. And it's my job to take care of you."

Creed giggled as Train kissed his forehead a few more times, then placed his hand against the one his beloved was still holding against his face. "That's funny… I was just thinking the same thing about you. You know me so well."

Train kissed his lover a few more times, trailing them down the side of his face to his cheek. "Indeed I do. And I know you well enough to be absolutely head over heels in love with you."

Creed smiled warmly and caught Train's lips when they landed against his, placing both of his hands on either side of the cat's face to deepen the kiss. He leaned back in his chair slightly as Train pushed harder into him, opening his mouth to allow his beloved access to his warm cavity. He moaned blissfully when he felt his Kitten's tongue twirling around his own, sliding his fingers back and up so they tangled with Train's chocolate locks.

Train pushed harder into Creed, holding tight to his lover's chin as his other hand landed on the silver man's neck to deepen the kiss further. When he felt Creed melt into his arms, Train pulled the man against his chest and slid his arm around his waist, pressing their chests against one another, relishing the way his partner's heart thumped rapidly against his own. It didn't take long for them to get lost in one another, since it was one of their favorite past times as lovers.

They remained like that for a few minutes until Train finally pulled away and made motions with his hands behind Creed's back. "This place is yours, my Stallion. It's what Anastasia wanted."

Creed gave Train a drunken smile. "You're right, Train… And like you said, she trusted me to take care of it. The least I could do is take more than just legal ownership of it."

Train smiled warmly at his partner, then turned his gaze towards the urn that was sitting on Creed's desk. "That's right. The Queen wouldn't have it any other way."

Creed blinked in confusion, not sure why Train wasn't looking at him, then followed his beloved's gaze to his mentor's ashes. He giggled and rolled his eyes at what his Kitten had done. "A crown? Really?"

Train smirked and sat on the man's lap. "Yup! You don't think it's fitting?"

Creed sighed beautifully as he wrapped his arms around Train's waist, resting his head against his beloved's chest as he spoke. "Oddly, yes. Yes it is. But, when did you make that crown?"

"Just now with my powers when you weren't paying attention." Train rested his chin on top of Creed's head as he used his abilities to continue cleaning up the mess of papers that still littered the room. "Could you imagine what her Tao would have been?"

Creed laughed as he snuggled his face against his partner. "A woman with a will and stubbornness that strong would have been unstoppable with the Tao! Screw Chronos, we could have taken down the Apostles with just her!"

Train laughed as well as he lifted his head and began running his fingers through Creed's hair. "Even without the Tao, she would have guilted them into submission. We should have told Sephiria to include her in the war."

Creed purred at the feeling of his beloved's tender fingers gliding through his hair. "Speaking of Sephiria, have you told her you're ready to talk to Aliane?"

Train frowned and glanced at his new phone sitting on the couch. "Yeah. No response." He pressed his face into his lover's silver locks as he asked a question of his own. "Have you reached out to E?"

Creed sighed. "Yes, and I received the same rude treatment as you did with Sephiria." He frowned as he ran his fingers up and down Train's arm. "Women…"

It's strange she isn't answering her phone. She always answers and I've called her several times… I hope everything's okay.

It may have been small, but Creed had the sinking feeling that something was wrong. In the months he had been trying to set up a date with the woman, he had learned that she was always on her phone and answered after the first ring. She was excited to see Train, so the fact that she wasn't answereding wasn't sitting well with his heart.

She's probably just angry with me. I did cancel on her an unacceptable amount of times. But, I hope she doesn't take that out on Train. It'll be good for him to see her.

E was a completely innocent person in Train's life who wasn't involved in any of their drama. She was also the person that helped give Train the push he needed to restart his life.

Train saw her as a sign from Saya. She's a representation of a new life for Train, a fresh start. And that's something he really needs right now.

Even though Train was doing better, Creed knew he was still suffering from nightmares and was hiding how anxious and on edge he was. The antidote was working well on him not taking orders, but it didn't do anything for the memory of his imprisonment, or the PTSD the doctor diagnosed him with.

Maybe when he talks to Aliane, his memories will resurface and we can learn more about what his triggers are. That will help us prevent any future breakdowns.

Despite not having a breakdown in eight days, little things still set the cat off. They were never so bad that he lost control of his Tao, but it was still enough to worry Creed and demand his Kitten not use his abilities to their fullest yet.

I know it drives Train crazy to have limits put on him, but he needs them. And I'm grateful he trusts me enough to listen. Maybe if he reacts well to speaking with Aliane, I'll be able to give him more freedom over his powers. Then… there's his Nanomachines…

They hadn't removed the bots yet and Eve said she wanted to talk to Creed about that at some point, but he was too busy taking care of Train to converse with her. He didn't mind. Creed knew ever since that fateful day he first laid eyes on the Black Cat that he'd give the golden beauty his life and more if it meant Train would even grace him with a glance.

Train rolled his eyes and pushed himself out of Creed's arms as he began looking through the paper on the desk, ruining his partner's neat pile. "Don't say that like you hate women, Creed. I know what your past was."

Creed watched as his love demolished his orderly stack, then stood up to stop Train from messing up his stacks. "Train, stop it! Why are you doing that?!"

Train ignored his partner's words and batted the man away. "I'm trying to find those papers I threw at you about the Theremin. I want to learn more about it."

Creed growled as Train avoided his grasp again, then decided to clean up the new wreckage his beloved created. "Then ask me! You already admitted you didn't understand the paper."

Train glanced at the papers he had in his hands, then looked at Creed out of the corner of his eye as he tried to clean up after him. "How would I know that if I didn't actually read it?"

Creed stopped and turned his head quickly to his love. "...You didn't even read it?"

Train smirked, putting one hand on the desk and sliding it across the wood towards his lover's new prized, neat pile. "Oh no, I read the words, I just didn't absorb them. And I stopped when I got to the word theremin because I didn't know what it meant."

Creed sighed, not noticing how close his Kitten's hand was to his new stack. "Did you do that with all of these documents?"

Train shrugged his shoulders and continued moving his hand closer to the papers. "Maybe…"

The silverette rubbed his eyes as he spoke. "So, you're telling me that all this time I thought you were trying to help me, you were really just reading the papers, but not really reading them, until you got to a word that your brain couldn't comprehend even though it wasn't really comprehending any of the words, and you decided that was the last straw and began to do your damndest to get my attention by annoying me. Is that right?"

Train gave his lover a cheeky smirk. "You know me so well, Creed…"

Creed gasped as Train slid his hand into his businesslike stack and knocked it off the desk, flinging the papers from the wooden surface and onto the floor. Feeling like that wasn't enough, Train flung his entire body on the desk and knocked everything else, except for Anastasia's ashes, onto the floor as well. Train then spun around on his side, resting one hand on his hip, the other one propping his head up as he smirked at his partner.

Creed growled at his beloved, then sighed lovingly at the impish smile Train was giving him. Still, he was a little annoyed at his cat for making another mess, so he frowned at the mischievous golden man and sat heavily back in his chair.

He set his elbow on the chair's arm, then rested his chin on his hand, wrapping his fingers around his face as he eyed his beloved between his lithe digits. "Train… Why…?"

Train turned his smile into a pout, sensing he might have pushed his partner's buttons a bit too hard. "Like you just said, doing my damndest to get your attention..."

Creed smirked at Train's sad face, making sure to hide it behind his hand since he wanted to let his beloved sweat a bit. "You had my attention, Train. You always have it. You know that."

Train frowned as he sat up on both his hands, unable to tell if Creed was actually mad at him. "I'm just messing with you, Creed… Don't be mad for real. This is our thing, isn't it?"

On the inside, Creed was laughing, but on the outside, he continued glowering so as to make his cat believe he was really upset. He stood up and leaned over his Kitten, grabbing Anastasia's urn so it wouldn't accidentally fall with what he was about to do.

"You could have knocked over Anastasai's ashes. You need to be more careful, Train..."

Train whimpered a little when Creed stepped away to set the urn down on the small table next to the couch, beginning to feel like he really had offended the man.

It's not like him to get upset at me so easily. I can't think of a single moment in the entire time we've known each other he's been truly mad at me. And I've done a lot to warrant his fury.

"Creed…" Train said as he sat on his knees to watch his partner's back as the silver man adjusted the urn slightly. "I'm sorry… I didn't mean to-"

His words were cut off as Creed leapt forward and pushed him back on the desk, pinning his shoulders to the hard surface as he grinned down at the gunman. "However, if it's more of my attention that you wanted, then I'll happily oblige…"

Train yelped, then moaned when his partner's lips wrapped around his neck and gasped when Creed bit down and sucked at his skin. He wrapped his arms around his lover's back and he tilted his head to give the man more room to work.

"Creed…" Train moaned as the silver man's tongue twirl around smooth skin, gripping tightly at Creed's shoulders as he arched his back slightly. "What are you doing?"

Creed rolled his eyes as he trailed his tongue along his love's jawline. "What does it look like I'm doing? I'm giving you attention, you needy-ass cat."

Train wanted to be angry with his partner for calling him needy especially after the conversation they had a few days ago, but found that to be impossible with the other man's lips giving him such warm, pleasurable sensations. When he opened his mouth to protest, he gasped loudly instead as the swordsman's hands slid up his shirt and gently massaged his lean muscles.

"Creed… this is wildly inappropriate…" Train's voice was becoming filled with lust as Creed's hands explored his body and outlined every curve of his muscles.

Creed brushed his thumb against his love's nipple, sucked vigorously at his neck, then pulled away slightly so he could talk. "How so?"

Train moved his hands from Creed's shoulder to his hips, holding them still as he thrusted his lower body up so it brushed against the silver man's growing member. "Because we're in your place of work..."

Creed gasped when he felt his beloved's hips grinding against his, then lowered his lips to Train's collar bone, trialing the tip of his tongue against his beloved's chest, smiling proudly when he felt the man under him shiver with delight. "That didn't stop you before…"

Train stopped gyrating again Creed's hips and blinked in bewilderment down at his partner who was beginning to unbutton his shirt. "What time before?"

Creed sat up a little as he undid the last of his love's buttons and tore the cat's shirt open, his blue eyes shining with a salacious desire. It didn't matter how many times he saw Train's impeccably exquisite chest, Creed was always going to be awed by the beauty of his beloved. He smiled depravedly, as he traced Train's muscles with the tip of his finger, revealing the way his Kitten's body shuddered with anticipation at his touch.

Seeing Train had stopped rolling their members against one another, Creed decided to pick up where his beloved left off and began moving his hips back and forth instead. He pressed their clothed shafts against one another, moving quickly and forcefully, wanting nothing more than to get Train to consent to Creed making love to him on that desk.

"The time in the recital hall. When I gave you a piano lesson. Remember?" Creed slid his hands up his love's chest, stopping once he reached Train's shoulders as his hips continued moving back and forth against his partner.

Train's pants and gasps were getting louder and faster, his lewd sounds matching the motions his lover's member was making against his growing shaft. He moved his hands to Creed's hair and tangled his fingers in his locks as the swordsman latched back onto his neck, pressing the back of his lover's head harshly to encourage his mouth to do whatever it wanted against his vulnerable skin.

"That was different. You didn't own the business back then…" Train pressed his hips up a little, desperate to feel more of the man lightly grazing his still hidden cock.

Creed moaned as he moved his hips faster, licking his beloved's neck, ascending it up to his jaw, then to his cheek, and finally up to his ear where he nibbled earnestly at his lobe. "Oh? So you're okay with me having my way with your body in a public location as long as I don't own it? I thought you weren't okay with any love making where we could potentially get caught…"

Train gasped louder as Creed increased his gyrating motions, his fingers continuing to massage the gunman's nipples as his mouth tasted every bit of Train's neck. He thought about Creed's words, then chuckled when he realized how hypocritical he was. "I think between the recital hall, the woods during training, and the night in the tent I can't call myself a shy lover…"

Creed chuckled as well and nipped tenderly at his love's flesh, his hips increasing their speed as he spoke. "Does the night in the tent count as PDA? It's not like we were in public."

Train gripped Creed's hair tighter, arching his back again as a wave of heat washed through him. "There were Chronos lackeys everywhere. Why do you think I was being quiet?"

Creed laughed and pulled away from Train's neck, pressing his mildly damp forehead against his love's slightly slick brow. "That was quiet?"

Train smirked and kissed his lover quickly, wrapping his fingers around Creed's neck as he spoke. "I thought you knew me better than that..."

Creed lowered his fingers to Train's pants, beginning to undo them as he smirked at his beloved. "I guess I did note you were a bit quieter than usual. However, I don't think you were aware of all the strange looks the erasers were giving us the next day…"

Train felt himself blush a little as he began opening Creed's shirt. "...I didn't."

Creed smirked as he opened Train's pants and slipped his hands beneath the fabric. "You never notice things like that." He felt Train shiver when he moved his hand along his love's shaft and sighed blissfully. "Honestly, I don't know why people are so bothered by public love making. We're making art with each other's bodies."

Train arched his back as Creed's hand moved faster and his Stallion's lips wrapped around his neck. "It's a matter of privacy and humility, Creed. Two things I think you lack."

Creed rolled his eyes and pulled back so he could give his Kitten a quick kiss on the lips. "The only time I abandon those emotions is when it comes to you, my love. I'm still waiting for you to give me consent to make love to you on stage."

Train moaned at the heat boiling in his groin as he finished opening Creed's shirt and slowly began tracing the muscle of his stomach with his fingers. "With or without an audience?"

Creed licked Train's collar bone as he quacked at his beloved's sensual touches against his stomach. "For the right price… With an audience."

Train felt the heat in his chest grow when Creed trembled at his touch and continued massaging the other man's lean muscles, slowly making his way up his chest. "Then I'm afraid I'll have to decline. This embrace is just for you and me."

Creed gasped as Train's thumb brushed against his nipple. He moved the hands between his love's legs faster, feeling invigorated at the thought of being seconds away from making love to his Kitten on stage. "Does that mean the option is open if there is no audience?"

Train did his best to shrug his shoulders, but found it to be impossible with the pleasurable wave of heat that was flooding to his groin. "Get me warmed up enough and we'll see how it goes…"

Creed moaned when Train twirled his thumbs about his nipples and moved his hand faster. "How about right now? Are you warmed up enough? Can I take you in my arms and carry you to the main stage? Oh, Train, I'd give anything to hear your voice cry out my name in heated bliss against those mellifluously eulogizing walls! Oh, please, my love! Let me-"

Train interrupted his lover by giving him another deep kiss, twirling his tongue around Creed's for a moment before pulling away and flicking the swordsman in the forehead. "Shut up and keep going."

Creed was dazed at the swift, passionate kiss his beloved gave him, nearly forgetting what he was doing as he rested his forehead against Train's and continued moving his hand. "Yes, my love..."

Train gasped and cried out, clawing at his partner's chest as Creed moved his hand up and down. "Oh, Creed…." He moaned as his lover continued moving his hand up and down.

The heat in his groin began to build as Creed's hand moved faster. No matter how many times his Stallion touched him in any erotic manner, it somehow felt like the first time and never failed to send Train into a whirlwind of passionate fire he wished he could live in.

As Train threw his head back and cried out, he slipped his fingers to his lover's pants to return the sensations Creed was giving him. "Is the door locked?"

Creed shrugged his shoulder and leaned down to engage his beloved in another heated kiss before he pulled back and responded. "Does it matter?"

Train attempted to remind his partner that they were expected visitors, but his words came out as another pleasurable cry when he felt Creed's thumb twirl around the tip of his member. He was soon lost in the other man's touch as he relaxed against the desk and returned Creed's deep, concupiscent kiss, completely forgetting what he was about to say to his partner. As the cat's fingers fumbled at Creed's pants, they both froze when a familiar voice entered their ears.

"My, my, either you both need to learn how to lock doors, or I need to start knocking before entering rooms because I believe this is the second time I've walked in on you two in a compromising position…"

Both men on the desk turned their heads wildly in the direction of the door and were met with the sight of Sergey leaning against the frame, arms and ankles crossed as he smirked wittingly at the entangled couple.

His avaricious eyes scanned the pair salaciously, taking in the intimate sight with much interest as he spoke. "Had I known I was walking in on a show, I would have brought snacks."

Train opened and closed his mouth a few times, attempting to say something, but not able to find the words. Creed, on the other hand, seemed more intent on glaring at the man than speaking, as if that was going to get him to leave so he could continue ravaging his beloved.

Seeing the men were either not willing or unable to form a sentence to be caught, yet again, in an amorous position by the Russian man, Sergey chuckled and decided to enter the room and sit on the couch, his eyes never leaving the duo as he crossed his legs.

The tall man leaned back and continued giving them a lewd look, gesturing with his hand as if he wanted them to continue. "Don't let my presence stop you. I was enjoying the view."

Train continued gawking, not sure what to say, but he managed to pull his hands away from Creed's pants and slide off the other end of the desk. He landed with an awkward thud on the ground, fixing himself behind the counter, praying Sergey wouldn't see something he wasn't permitted to see.

Creed, on the other hand, sat up and stared daggers at the Russian man, narrowing his eyes as he gave Sergey a command. "Leave."

Sergey sighed. "Oh, come on! Considering this is the second time I walked in on you two and everything I've done for you the last three weeks, don't you think I deserve a little… entertainment? You know, as a thank you?"

Creed growled and threw a single paper ball at him. "A real friend wouldn't ask for such a perverted thing as a thank you! A real friend would be happy just to see that his friends are happy and healthy."

Sergey smirked. "I can certainly see you're healthy…"

He frowned when Creed threw another paper ball at him. "Well, a real friend would think to lock the door before making love to their partner when they know their friends are coming. Or just abstain altogether at least until his friend left. vSer'yezno, ty ne mozhesh' derzhat' eto v shtanakh v techeniye dnya?" (1)

Creed sighed, inwardly understanding where the man was coming from, but not willing to outwardly admit it. He glanced at Train and smirked. "Sorry, that's too tall of an order for me to deliver. Have you seen how gorgeous that man is? Vy ne mozhete skazat' mne, chto smozhete derzhat' ruki pri sebe." (2)

Sergey gave the silver man a lewd look as he scanned his opened shirt, a view he knew was thanks to Train. "While it'd be interesting to experience Train's body first hand… YA uveren, chto mne bylo by namnogo interesneye ispytat' tvoye." (3)

Creed noticed where the man's eyes had fallen and began buttoning his shirt. "Sorry, yavlyayetsya moyey sobstvennost'yu, a ya sobstvennost'yu Train. Vam nuzhno budet nayti drugoye derevo, chtoby pokryt'sya layem." (4)

Sergey smirked, then winked at Creed. "Chto ne tak s sovmestnym ispol'zovaniyem?" (5)

Creed finished buttoning his shirt and fixing his pants as he glowered at the man's implication. "... YA nikogda ni s kem ne podelyus' Train." (6)

"Vy oba znayete, chto ya slyshu i ponimayu vas, verno?" (7)

Both Creed and Sergey looked over at the cat who was peeking his head over the desk, but still hiding the rest of his body.

Creed gave his Kitten a warm smile as he reached over and twirled his finger around his chocolate hair. "Sorry, my love. Didn't mean to leave you out of the conversation."

Train rolled his eyes at his lover, then pointed a finger at the man who was smiling triumphantly on the couch. "You need to stop assuming you can just enter any closed door you want!"

Sergey rolled his eyes. "I can understand where you're coming from for this instance, but the first time was in the recital hall which is open to the public. Meaning anyone from the street could have walked in on the concert you were performing with our charismatic blue-eyed beauty."

Train blushed slightly and lowered his arm, wrapping his fingers around the edge of the desk as he spoke. "That… was different…"

Sergey laughed. "How so? Because you would have preferred a stranger seeing you like that over me? Boy, I'm learning more and more about the Black Cat!"

Train opened his mouth to protest what the man said, but closed it again and fell back behind the desk when he realized Sergey had the upper hand. As quick witted and sharp as the gunman's retorts usually were, he knew he didn't have a leg to stand on since Sergey was right.

Seeing his beloved was rendered speechless by the blonde insatiable man, Creed turned his eyes to Sergey. "Stop disrespecting Train. This is your fault."

Sergey gave Creed an offended look. "My fault?! You knew I was coming this time! Are you seriously telling me you didn't plan on me walking in on you?"

Creed hardened his glare. "I can assure you that was most certainly not our intention."

Sergey let out a sarcastic sigh. "Too bad… I was sort of hoping you'd both offer me to join…"

Creed threw several more paper balls at him. "I've turned down that offer several times!"

Train blinked in shock, then looked over the desk at his partner. "You have?!"

Sergey laughed as he brushed the papers off his lap. "Oho? Do I detect a hint of intrigue in our cute little kitty's voice?"

Creed threw even more papers at the man. "SHUT UP!"

Sergey laughed even harder as Train sunk back below the desk and ignored the paper hitting him. "Guess I should have known better then to think my dreams were finally coming true… While I hate the idea of sharing you, I think Train is sexy enough I'd make an exception."

Creed grabbed the waste basket from the floor and threw it at the man. "DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT IT, IZVRASHCHENETS!" (8)

The swordsman's anger made it impossible to aim properly, and the trash can landed next to the Russian man instead of hitting him in the face like Creed intended. The papers spilled all over the couch, making Sergey release a merry laugh. While he was overjoyed at the way the interaction was going, there was a small part of him that actually did wish he hadn't said anything before he entered the room so he would have been able to watch the x-rated show of Creed and Train having sex on the desk.

Sergey lessened his laughter when he saw Creed was fuming at him. "Calm down, Creed. I'm kidding… Sort of. While it would have been a beautiful sight to see you making love to your sweet cat, I knew you wouldn't have appreciated me watching, which is why I made my presence known."

Creed wished he had more to throw at the man, and even started opening the drawers of the desk. "My kingdom for a sharp object with which I can cause you harm." He knew he could use his Imagine Blade, but that'd be going too far. Even for Creed.

Sergey rolled his eyes. "Oh, please! Before you try to hurt me, you should first consider locking the door if you're going to have sex with your partner while you're waiting for friends to arrive."

Creed glanced at his beloved to see his cat was ready to show himself, but noticed Train was deciding to stay hidden so the swordsman could handle the awkward situation. "What I do in my office is none of your business. I suggest you take your own advice and learn how to knock. Unless my instincts are correct and you are purposefully trying to catch us in precarious situations."

Sergey smirked again. "Trust me, if I wanted to catch the two of you, I wouldn't have said anything. I only spoke up because I like you."

Creed rolled his eyes and slid off the desk, sitting back in his chair. "I doubt most of that sentence is true."

Sergey sighed again as he leaned forward on his knees. "I certainly hope you know the part about liking you is true." He snapped his fingers impatiently at the silver man, trying to look over the desk to see what Train was doing as he spoke. "Now, come on! Let's get the show back on the road! I need some material for later this evening."

Creed threw more paper balls at him. "Shut that debauched mouth of yours before I make you regret interrupting!"

Sergey pouted mockingly at the silver man as he used his arms to shield himself from the barrage of balls. "Well excuuuse me for responding to your request to come say hi to you and your lover. Didn't you miss me?"

Creed sighed and rubbed his eyes, knowing the man's feelings for him made that an impossible question to answer. "...Where are the others?"

Sergey frowned, his heart breaking a little knowing the silver man deliberately avoided his question and understanding the painful truth of his relationship with Creed. "They're here."

Creed noted the despondency in the man's voice, but he knew he couldn't address it. "Where?"

Sergey was about to respond, but Train's head popped up from the other side of the desk again as he asked his own question. "Is Aimee here as well?"

Sergey nodded at Train. "Yes. And Dae said she's looking forward to seeing you."

Train blinked and lifted his head slightly. "Did she say that?"

Sergey rolled his eyes. "No. Like I said, Dae said that. She doesn't speak, remember?"

Train sighed and lowered his head again. "Yeah… I remember…"

I was kind of hoping after Creed told me she spoke to him that meant she was going to talk more…. And maybe we could talk about what happened.

Train glanced up at Sergey, noticing the man was giving Creed a longing look that he silver man was staunchly ignoring, using work as an excuse to avoid the man's gaze. The Black Cat frowned, feeling pity for the man that obviously cared deeply for his lover.

He did a lot for Creed while I was gone… I know Creed needs to be careful with how he shows his gratitude for the man, but the least I can do is let him know how much I appreciate him.

Train finally stood up from behind the desk and walked towards the Russian man. Sergey continued staring at Creed until he felt the cat's eyes on him, then turned to look up at the golden-eyed man who was smiling warmly at him.

Sergey cocked an eyebrow. "Yes? Can I help you?"

Train's warm smile turned into a cheeky one as he offered Sergey his hand. "No. I think you'd done enough to help. From what it sounds like, you never gave up on him and I just wanted to say thank you for everything you did while I was gone. If it wasn't for you, Creed might not be here right now. I appreciate you, and what you did more than you realize."

Sergey blinked Train for a few seconds, then tentatively took Train's hand and shook it. "O-Of course… I couldn't sit back and watch him suffer…"

Train gripped the Russian man's hand tighter. "Well then, thank you for caring enough about him to take care of him. And… I also wanted to apologize…"

Sergey frowned. "For what?"

Train sighed and looked away. "For… not being able to protect Anastasia. I-"

Sergey laughed loudly, cutting the cat's remorseful words off before he could even finish them. "Oh brother, Creed was right! You really do carry the world's problems on your back!"

Train blinked. "What?"

Sergey stopped laughing and smiled, hand still wrapped around Train's as he spoke. "It's egotistical to think you're capable of preventing and solving all the world's problems. What happened to Anastasia wasn't your fault. From what I heard, you did everything you could to protect her and Aimee."

He sighed wistfully as he glanced at Creed, who was subtly keeping an eye on the two of them. "Besides, she was ready to go. She wanted to be with her beloved again. We all knew that."

Train stared at him for a few minutes, then sighed in relief. "Thank you for that… And, if there's anything I can do to make it up to you, please let me know."

Creed froze when he heard Train say that, since he knew Sergey was not going to take that in an innocent way. "Train… what did I say about being careful what you offered that man?"

Train gave his partner a bewildered look, then realized Sergey had suddenly stopped shaking his hand. When the blonde man locked eyes with the silver man, Creed's eyes widened as he stood up in an attempt to protect his beloved from the rapacious Russian.

"SERGEY, DON'T-"

As Creed stood up, he caught his foot on the corner of the desk, stubbing his toe as he fell to the ground, preventing him from getting to his Kitten in enough time. Sergey smirked at Creed as he yanked Train's arm, pulling the gunman onto his lap and wrapping his arm around the thin man's frame. He spun the cat around so Train's back was leaning against one of his arms while the other slithered tightly around his waist.

"I thought I made it perfectly clear how you both can make it up to me…" He leaned his face closer to Train's flustered one, keeping one eye on Creed was who was floundering quite inelegantly to his feet. "So, if you can just convince your partner that it'll be fun, we'll be made in the shade."

Creed growled at the man, knowing full well Sergey was again messing with them, but he hated seeing anyone toy with his beloved like that. Even if it was just to rile him up. "GET OFF HIM!"

Sergey smirked at Creed and pinched the struggling cat's thigh, making Train let out a precious little yelp. "Ooh, how cute that sound was! Tell me, Creed, does he make more noises like that in the heat of the moment?"

Train attempted to scramble out of the other man's grasp when Sergey pinched him again, but he was also beginning to panic that he might find one of his ticklish spots and found himself unable to escape as he focused on that.

Creed was on them in an instant, grabbing the Russian man's arms and prying him off his beloved Kitten. As bad of an idea as it was for Train to get close to him, Creed knew it was an even more foolish plan for him to get close, but he couldn't stand back and let his love get molested by a deviant.

"I SAID GET OFF!" Creed shouted as he pulled Train away.

Sergey laughed as Creed fought him, knowing full well the swordsman was going to be far too strong for him to fight back, but enjoying the brief contact he received from his silver dream boat. "Oh, lighten up, Creed! You know I'm doing this to mess with you specifically. Besides, Train likes it, see?"

Train was about half way out of Sergey's grasp and into Creed's arms when the Russian man pinched him again, that time on his side which activated a bit of his ticklish nature. Hearing the golden man laugh, Sergey's eyes widened slightly at the discovery and jumped forward before Creed could pull him to safety, knocking all three of them on the ground.

"Wait a minute! Just what was that adorable noise?!"

Train covered his mouth as Creed wrapped his arms around the cat's shoulders, trying to pull him away from the handsy Russian man. "I said get off!"

Sergey ignored Creed's statement as he flung himself on top of the cat and pinched the gunman's side again. Train twitch and kick his feet to get the man off him, keeping his hand over his mouth so Sergey wouldn't hear his laughter.

Sergey smirked. "...Is the Black Cat ticklish?!"

Train and Creed both glared at him and shouted at the same time. "NO!"

Sergey snickered and pinched Train again before Creed could pull him away, smirking when he saw another violent twitch and heard a quick laugh escape his lips. "Oh my God, that is so precious! Does Lin know about this?!"

Creed growled and pulled Train away. "HANDS TO YOURSELF, IZVRASHCHENETS!" (9)

"Ooh, are we walking in on a secret meeting? Creed, I never thought you'd be willing to share Train! Especially with someone as devious as Sergey!"

All eyes shot to the door to see Dae standing with Francisco, the man not seeming at all interested in what was happening and the woman with her trademark friendly smile. The only one who was missing from view was Aimee, which Train noted with slight discontent.

"Where's Aimee?" The cat asked as he took advantage of Creed and Sergey's distracted states to slip out of both their grasps.

Dae giggled as Creed slapped Sergey for reasons she was sure had to do with what they walked in on, then addressed the cat. "The recital hall. She wants you to meet her there."

Train blinked and pointed to himself. "Me specifically?"

Dae nodded. "Yes. She's been wanting to see you since she heard you were back. She's been waiting patiently for you to be ready to reunite."

Train smiled, his heart warmed by the thought that the girl wanted to talk to him just as much as he wanted to talk to her. Still, as much as he wanted to run to the recital hall to see her, he was again reminded of what the people in front of him did for his friends and needed to make sure they understood how appreciative he was of their help as well.

And they're less likely to assault me like Sergey did.

As Train put a hand out for Dae to shake, she wrapped her arms around his back and pulled him into a tight hug instead. "I'm so glad to see you're safe…"

Train froze for a second, then smiled and wrapped his arms around the woman's delicate waist, returning the cordial hug with an amiable one of his own. "Thank you for everything you did while we were gone."

Dar giggled. "Don't thank me! I did what any friend would do in that situation."

Train shook his head and pulled the woman away. "That's not true and you know it. Not only did you take care of Aimee and the school, but you took care of our friends. People you barely know. And you did it to help Creed. So, thank you."

He paused his statement, then looked to the ground and tried to offer the same apologies he offered Sergey. "And… I wanted to say I'm sorry for not being able to protect Anastasia... I could have done more to save her. I could have-"

His voice was stopped by Dae as she placed a finger against his lips. "Don't apologize for that. You did everything you could. She knew that, and we all know that." Seeing the cat was about to speak again, she pinched his lips closed. "If you've been holding that guilt inside you all this time, I suggest you let it go because it will only hurt you. Anastasia wouldn't want you to be in any sort of pain because of her."

Dae smiled and pulled her hand away when she noticed the cat wasn't going to protest anymore. "And I didn't do what I did just for Creed. I did it for everyone. Your friends needed someone to help take care of them, and I wasn't going to sit by and watch them or this business fall apart. Besides, I had faith they would find you."

She reached out and gently cupped Train's cheek, reminding the cat very much of how his mother used to caress his face to help him sleep. "And they did."

Train nodded. "Still… if there's anything I can do for you to repay what you've done for us, let me know." He glanced at Sergey. "Assuming it's not the same request that man made…"

Dea watched as the men in the room picked up the papers littered everywhere and giggled again when Creed smacked Sergey's hand away. "That man never learns..." She turned back to Train and smiled. "I don't know what his offer was, but I can assure you that I would never make such a pervert request. All I ask of you is to live happily with Creed and never stop loving him. Because if you do, I'll have to beat you up until you love him again."

Train chuckled as the woman playfully smacked him.

She's really just like a normal suburban mom, bad jokes and all. I can see why Anastasia wanted her to take care of Aimee.

Train turned to thank Francisco as well, then noticed he was no longer standing behind the woman. He turned around to see the man helping Creed and Sergey clean up, and opened his mouth to give him the same gratitude he gave the other musicians. However, before he could say anything, Dae gently touched his shoulder, drawing his attention back on her.

She smiled kindly at the cat. "You don't have to thank him or apologize to him. In fact, not thanking or apologizing would probably be his request. He doesn't like being the center of attention, even if it's just for a well deserved thank you."

Train smiled, then nodded, and turned to his lover to say something. But, once again as he attempted to open his mouth, he was interrupted. Except that time, it was by Creed.

"Go see Aimee. It's Sergey's fault this place is a mess anyway. He can help me clean up."

Sergey frowned at the silver man. "Why is everything suddenly my fault?! You're the one that threw garbage at me! I was just being friendly!"

Creed threw the pile of trash he had in his hand at the man and glared at him. "You were not just being friendly, you were being a creep! Now, shut up and help me clean."

Sergey mumbled something under his breath about how he was just fooling around and wasn't actually going to do anything to Train, but the swordsman told him to shut up again. Dae giggled and stepped into the room to help them clean up as well.

When she stepped in, Creed asked a question. "Do you know why Anastasia bought fifteen theremins?"

Dae nodded as she threw some paper away. "Yes. She used them for therapeutic services."

Creed cocked an eyebrow. "Really?"

Again, the woman nodded. "Yes. She used them for students with Down syndrome, Autisistic students, students with Parkinson's, Elderly students, and so on."

Sergey snickered as he dumped an armful of papers in the trash can. "Elderly students? You mean she taught people that were older than her?"

Creed threw a single paper ball at him, then addressed Dae again. "Could you elaborate on how she used them for those specific demographics?"

Dae tossed her own paper ball at Sergey who glared at her. "I didn't understand either. I just found them one day and that was the explanation she gave me. We didn't get into specifics."

Creed nodded and threw another ball at the Russian man. It seemed like he and Dar had a silent understanding they were pretending to aim for the trash can Sergey stood by, but were really trying to peg him with their paper ammo. "I have somewhat of an understanding how she used them in that aspect, but I'll do some research. I need to research a lot about music education and therapy anyway in order to properly run this place."

Dae smiled at the man as she threw another paper ball at Sergey, the Russian man seeing to accept his fate as a target mark as he began catching the paper and tossing it in the can instead. "That's one of the many reasons she picked you to run this place. She knew you'd know what was required to continue its success."

Creed smiled as he glanced at the urn and threw more paper as Sergey. "You guys did a good job with this place while I was gone. I'm sure you would have done a great job as well."

Dae shrugged her shoulders. "I've got enough on my plate and she knew that."

Sergey looked at Creed and followed his eyes to the urn that was resting on the table next to the couch. He smirked and made a teasing shocked sound as he spoke to Creed. "Creed Diskenth! Were you and Train about to have sex in front of out beloved teacher?! For shame!"

Creed dropped the armful of papers he was holding in the trash can, then picked it up and dumped it on Sergey's head. "What did I say about what I do in my office? It's none of your concern."

Sergey yelped and pulled the bin off, and glared at Creed. "It is my business when you're defiling the memory of our great mentor!"

Creed rolled his eyes and pushed the man away. "Says the guys who tried to convince us to have a threesome in her office…"

Sergey frowned at Creed, then took the basket off and dropped it on the silver man's head before he could walk away. "I told you that was a joke! You knew I'd never share you!"

Creed sputtered as the man pushed him away and fumbled to pull the trash can off his head. Dae decided to step in and pull it off the man, then handed the can to Francisco. "Would you two knock it off for one second?! You just re-created the mess we were cleaning up!"

Sergey pouted as he began picking up the papers yet again. "Sorry, Mother…"

Dae glared at him, a gesture the sweet woman rarely used. "You should be so lucky to have me as your mother…" She pointed to Creed who was cleaning up again as well. "And you! I'm surprised at you! Aren't you supposed to be the orderly one?!"

Creed sulked, but did not verbalize his shame. Dae rolled her eyes at the men, picking up more paper as she tossed it in the can Francisco was holding. "If you clean this up quietly, I'll show you where Anastasia keeps the theremins."

Sergey smirked jokingly at the woman. "Thanks, Ma!"

Train watched as Dae smacked the Russian man and scolded him again, smiling warmly as he leaned against the door frame to listen in on their conversation for a few minutes before he sought out Aimee.

Creed's missed them. He needs this time with them to give him normalcy as well.

Everyone had been so focused on making sure Train was comfortable that they were neglecting their own peace of mind.

Creed being back in the school with his friends will do him a world of good. I'm not the only one who was traumatized from this whole ordeal.

After a few more minutes of watching his partner mess around with his friends, Train finally turned on his heel to seek out the girl he had been dying to see for days. Even though Creed assured Train she was doing well, that didn't settle his uneasy heart.

I'd like to see for myself how she's doing.

He was really close to the girl or any of Creed's musician friends for that matter. While he liked them and enjoyed their company, they were more his lover's friends than his. They were people Creed needed to meet to help him gain control of his life and learn how to live outside of Train. And Train didn't want to inject himself into the world his partner was creating on his own.

These people were exactly what Creed needed in order to find out who he was.

While Train was working through his own inner angst during their time apart, Creed was embarking on his own self realization as well. And the music school along with the miscreants inside of it were the key to Creed's successful rehabilitation. Lin, E, and the sweepers had been the people to help Train realize what he wanted out of life, and Anastasia and the others were the ones to help Creed learn how to exist without the Black Cat. Because of them, they were eventually able to exist together once again, but in a stronger, more healthy relationship.

As Train approached the door to the recital hall, he stopped and stared at it for a minute.

Dae said she wanted to talk to me, right…? I'm not forcing a conversation on the girl that she doesn't want to have… right?

Train frowned as he focused on the last part of his thoughts.

What if she does blame me for Anastasia's death? What if she hates me for not being able to protect her?

Train felt a stampede of recalcitrant emotions storm through him. His breathing picked up speed and his heart was beating in his throat, all the tell tale signs he knew were associated with a panic attack. Yes, he blamed himself for the old woman's death, but the idea that Aimee could possibly anathemize him for the demise of her adopted mother hadn't occurred to him. His thoughts were too monopolized with seeing the girl again, sharing his misery with her, and apologizing that he hadn't even thought about how Aimee would feel about seeing him again.

Even if she was waiting for me to be ready to see her again like Dae said, that might have been out of basic human decency. She might recognize that I needed time to recover before she laid into me about letting her mother die.

Train was becoming so consumed with his anxious thoughts that it didn't occur to him that he was thinking such fatalistic things about Anastasia's daughter, a woman who put everyone's needs before her own and didn't have a vindictive bone in her frail old body. She never would have raised someone to be so spiteful and malicious towards another human being, no matter what their sin may have been.

Or, is that really the case? She did die with a grudge against Rinslet…

Train shook his head.

That was different. Rinslet knowingly hurt Anastasia. I was simply too incompentent to keep the woman alive.

Train moaned and gripped his hair, trying to stop his dark thoughts from taking over before he lost control again. He even felt a bit of his electrical Tao outlining his body.

No! I can't let these thoughts take over! I can't lose myself again. Not just when I've been so steadily regaining my true self.

Train took a deep breath, doing his best not to let the apprehensive mind devour him as he clenched his fist and pressed his forehead against the door. The cat didn't know if he was overreacting or not, but he knew he couldn't let his negative thoughts get the better of him.

Whether she's mad at me or not, I have to face her. For her peace of mind and mine.

Train laughed bitterly. "Why is apologizing to her so much harder than apologizing to everyone else was?"

He knew the answer to that. Aimee had far less on a reason to forgive him than the others. Not only was it her mother that died, but she watched it happen. She cried out Anastasia's name as she tried to free herself from the Earthly prison Kenneth created around her.

If anyone is going to hate me for what happened… it's Aimee.

Train took another deep breath, lifted his head, and pushed the door open. He stopped as soon as he entered the hall, eyes falling on the stage immediately. He heard the angelic sounds of the French Horn resounding divinely against the high, tall walls and instantly felt lighter.

He didn't recognize what the girl was playing, but he didn't need to in order to enjoy the beauty of her solemn melody. Despite how heavenly the instrument sounded, there was certain a tragic resolution behind the music. As if the composer had resigned themselves to the destitution of their wretched destiny.

Train took a few steps forward, making his way slowly down the aisle as he kept his eyes on the girl performing her somber piece on the dimly lit stage. The single light that illuminated it centered on the petite figure playing the music, emphasizing how lonely and isolated she must have felt after losing her mother. Logically, Train knew the desolate scene was most likely due to Aimee's unwillingness to turn on every light in the hall, but that didn't change the melancholy aura the girl's aura was emitting.

Leaving the lights off might have been even a subconscious thing. She's so depressed without her mother she can't even be bothered to turn on all the lights in a room…

Train frowned as he continued moving forward, not wanting to interrupt the girl's performance. Not only was he enjoying the balletic, trite harmonies she was constructing, but he could tell it was helping put the girl at ease. As if she was also nervous about seeing Train.

What does she have to be nervous about? Unless she also doesn't know what to say to me…

Train finally made his way to the edge of the stage and watched the girl up close. The only time he had ever seen Aimee perform on stage was at Creed's recital which felt like aeons ago, but back then his attention was on the silverette. He hadn't noticed how ethereal the girl looked holding the golden, otherworldly instrument.

Back when I had never heard of the instrument, Creed told me the French Horn is often depicted in artwork with angels because it's sound is considered heavenly and supernatural. From the descriptors Creed used, I'm surprised he never learned how to play it himself.

A mystical note bounced off the walls of the hall and echoed in Train's ears, signaling the end of the girl's piece. As Aimee slowly set her instrument down, the only company the duo had in the room was each other and completely, deafening silence. Train wasn't sure if he should clap, since he didn't know if the girl even knew he was there yet. He didn't want to interrupt her atramentous, yet serene moment with his cacophonous voice.

Should I wait for her to notice me? Should I let her say something first? Will she even say anything since she's gone back to being a selective mute?

As Train watched the girl stare at her own reflection in the French Horn, he smiled warmly as he remembered more of what Creed said about the instrument. " Did you know the French Horn is considered the most noble-sounding of the brass instruments in classical music? It has a full, round, dark tone, that sounds both powerful and elegant."

Aimee lifted her head to lock eyes with the cat, then blinked as the man jumped onto the stage.

Train gave her a weak smile and kept his distance, since he still wasn't sure how the girl was going to react to his presence. "I know you all respect Creed a lot for his musical genius, but I think it might interest you to know he says he never learned how to play the French Horn because it's too hard. He's mentioned on many occasions how much he respects you for not only being able to play it, but being able to master it as well. It's the one instrument he said he doesn't think he'd ever be able to truly perfect even if he tried."

Aimee did not say anything to the man and continued giving him a blank look. He swallowed quietly as he locked eyes with the girl, knowing that stoic state was normal for her, but still feeling uneasy about the situation since she hadn't made a move to even stand up.

I wish I could read her thoughts so I wouldn't keep imposing my own worried ones on her.

The longer he stared at Aimee, the more he felt like the girl was boring a crater into his head, and the more he felt like she was admonitioning him with her eyes. Train blinked a few times, just to make sure his face was still working and Aimee hadn't broken it with her vacant, yet cognizant stare, then bravely took another step towards her.

Well, I guess I may as well tell her how I've been feeling…

Train ran his fingers through his hair, looking away from the girl as he spoke. "Aimee… I'm… I'm sorry for not being able to protect Anastasia."

Again, he was greeted with silence, making his words catch in his throat as tears began to slowly fall from his eyes. "I… I should have done more. I should have given myself up sooner. If… If I had done that, then maybe… maybe…"

He choked on another sob and looked away from Aimee, unable to maintain eye contact with the girl whose mother he had gotten killed. "...I'm the infamous Black Cat. A deadly ex-assassin with a powerful Tao… If anyone was able to protect her, it should have been me. If you were going to be safe with anyone, it should have been me…"

Train buried his face in his hands as he continued to cry. "I should have been able to protect her! She shouldn't have died because of my drama! Because of my presence! I… I…!"

His words trailed off as his hands fell to his sides, unable to continue his thoughts since he knew none of it mattered. "I know it doesn't mean anything now, and I understand you probably hate me, but… I just wanted you to know, I'm sorry for not being able to save Anastasia…"

Train kept his head lowered as he stood in silence in front of the girl, waiting for her to scream at him, hit him, or even throw her French Horn at him. However, what he was greeted with instead were two tiny arms wrapping around his waist and a small head burying itself in his chest.

"...Thank you… for protecting us…"

Train blinked down at the girl, his arm remaining by his sides as he tried to comprehend what was happening. "Wh-what…?"

Aimee squeezed him tighter as tears fell from her eyes as well. "Thank you for doing everything you could to protect us… She would have been grateful that you saved me."

She looked up at Train, an uncharacteristic huge smile on her face as she finished her words of gratitude. "Thank you… Train..."

Train laughed behind his sob, then wrapped his arms around her small frame. "B-But… I wasn't able to save her…"

Aimee shook her head. "It's okay… She was ready to go. She was ready a long time ago. She would have been happy just to see me alive. Which wouldn't have happened without you."

Train lowered his head and cried with the girl who seemed to be far stronger and more mature than the cat gave her credit for. But I… I…"

Aimee smacked the cat's back, making him feel like Anastasia was in the room with them. "Stop that. You did everything you could. You even gave yourself up when that was exactly what she didn't want. If there's anything I should be mad at you for, it's for letting them take you. Because that put you and everyone else through an ineffable amount of pain."

Aimee wiped a few of his tears away, then smacked him again. "Stupid cat… Don't ever do that again or else I will be mad at you."

Train slowly stopped his tears, then chuckled a little when the girl smacked him again. "I never expected you to be such an eloquent chatterbox."

The girl's smile turned into a frown as smacked him yet again. "Just because I choose not to speak, doesn't mean I don't know how to do it adequately."

Train chuckled again. "I think you're more than just adequate. I'm ust shocked to hear you speak at all let alone shower me with compliments I definitely don't deserve."

Aimee reached up and smacked the gunman's cheek. "Don't make me get the cane."

Train blinked down at her. "What cane?"

Aimee gestured to the area where she had been sitting, the cat's eyes following her motion and smiling wistfully at Anastasia's cane. He had been too preoccupied with talking to the girl to notice she had her adopted mother's cane resting under her chair.

Train smirked and looked back at the girl. "That there is a powerful weapon. Use it well."

Aimee returned his smile, then hugged the cat again. "I will… She wouldn't want me to abuse the power she bestowed on me."

Train laughed and gently pet her head. "Or maybe she would want you to abuse it. I can already think of a certain Russian man that is in good need of a beating. Unless Creed gave it to him while I've been gone."

Aimee's face became mischievous as she spoke. "I'm sure Sergey would like that."

Again, Train blinked in confusion, then chuckled. "Man, I'm learning so much about you in such a short amount of time. Does this mean we're friends?"

Aimee rolled her eyes and smiled slightly. "Maybe…"

Their conversation was interrupted crudely as the door to the recital hall burst open, revealing a fuming Creed, an entertained Dae, and a proud Sergey. Francisco walked in shortly after them, pulling a metal platform that had several large cardboard boxes on it.

As soon as they walked into the room, Aimee pushed herself out of Train's arm and took a few steps away. Train could tell by the look on her face she was going back to her mute state and as much as he wished the girl would continue her conversational streak, he didn't want to push her to do something she was uncomfortable with.

"I swear to GOD, Sergey, if you try to grope me one more time, you're going to lose that hand! And don't test me because I've done it before and quite recently at that!"

Sergey pouted as he followed Creed. "Aww, you don't mean that! You know you love me!"

Creed stopped and turned around to face the man, pointing at Train. "No, I love him! Get it through your sick, perverted skull!"

Dae rolled her eyes as she approached the stage. "Now, now, boys, behave yourself. Even if Anastasia isn't here, she wouldn't want you two fighting so much."

Creed macked Sergey's hand away from him again, giving him a warning look as he spoke. "Tell that to Mr. Handsy here! If Anastasia was here, she'd smack him with her cane."

Train glanced at Aimee who was smirking at the cane under her chair. He chuckled quietly, happy to see she hadn't completely crawled back into her secluded shell as he wiped the tears from his cheeks.

He turned to the group and addressed the box Francisco was pulling. "What's that?"

Creed's face lightened up the moment he heard his beloved's voice and walked away from Sergey's greedy fingers as he leapt effortlessly onto the stage. "It's the Theremins! You said you were interested, so I figured we could play them. They've been sitting in storage for a while, so we need to make sure they're working anyway."

Train smiled as his partner approached him, his face turning from delighted to worried when he saw the tear marks on the cat's face. Creed cupped each of Train's cheeks and wiped away the remaining marks with his thumbs, silently asking his Kitten how he was doing. The cat smiled reassuringly at his partner and patted his hands, letting the silver man know the conversation went well despite the tears on his face. Creed smiled in return and kissed his forehead.

Train ran one of his hands through his lover's hair as he spoke. "I'd love to play them. Especially if it's to help the business."

"Great! Let's get started then!" Dae said as she helped Francisco carry the boxes on stage.

Sergey climbed up after them and began opening the boxes, smiling at Aimee who stepped up from behind them, holding Anastasia's hand behind her back. Before the Russian man could greet her, the girl pulled the cane back out and hit Sergey harshly on top of the head.

"OW! WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT FOR?!"

Dae laughed prettily as he pulled out the first electronic instrument. "Through a dart in the wind and I'm sure you'll find one!"

Sergey grumbled as he rubbed his head and moved away from the girl. "YA dumal, chto teper', po krayney mere, budu v bezopasnosti ot etoy proklyatoy trosti …" (10)

Creed smiled proudly at Aimee, taking Train's hand as he pulled his love towards another box. "Tebe nikogda ne izbezhat' gneva Anastasii." (11)

Sergey glared at Creed, then went back to what he was doing. As Creed bent down to pick up the first Theremin to hand to his cat, he felt his pocket vibrate and pulled his phone out instead. His eyes widened and he checked it immediately, then frowned.

This… doesn't sound like E… Is something wrong?

He knew E to use a lot of emojis and slang in her texts and while the message did have a lot of her mannerisms in it, it felt like it was forced. There were far too many smiley faces and the slang that was used sounded made up. It was almost as if someone else was texting on her behalf and didn't want him to know it wasn't actually her.

"Finally! Now I can have what is probably the last difficult conversation I will ever be capable of having for the rest of my life!"

Creed looked at his beloved and noticed he was looking at his phone as well. "Did Sephiria get back to you?"

Train smiled widely and nodded. "Yup! We can talk to Aliane in a couple of days. But, we have to do it at Chronos headquarters."

Creed nodded. "I figured that'd be the case."

Train smiled and noticed the silverette had his phone in his hand. "Did you finally have success with E as well?"

Creed pocketed his phone again and nodded. "Yes…"

Train frowned. "Why don't you sound happy about it? Don't you want to see her?"

Creed sighed. "I do…"

There's just something about this text that's not sitting right with me…

Train deepened his frown. "But…?"

Creed shook his head and smiled at his beloved. "Nothing, Train. It's nothing."

I'm probably just overthinking it.

"Would you two stop making me jealous by gazing lovingly into one another's eyes and help us test these bad boys out? V kontse kontsov, eto vashe delo." (12)

Train rolled his eyes and stepped away from his partner. "Ne snimay shtany, my idem." (13)

Sergey gave him a lewd smirk. "You know that's a tall order for me to fill. "Osobenno uchityvaya nyneshnyuyu kompaniyu…" (14)

Train laughed when Aimee smacked him with the cane again. "Did you forget Aimee speaks Russian too?"

Sergey rubbed his head as he glared at the girl. "She doesn't speak anything, but she understands everything."

Aimee glared at the man, then continued helping Dae test the instruments. Sergey stuck his tongue out at the girl, then pulled out a box cutter. Just as he was about to slice the box open, Train leaned over and cut it with his Cat Claws

Sergey blinked at the box, then up at the cat. "What the hell was that?"

Train gave the man a cheeky smile as he pulled out one of the instruments. "My new abilities that were generously forced onto me. I figure I may as well make the most of them while I can."

Sergey stared at the cat's claws for a second, watching as he made them disappear and glanced at Creed with another indecent look in his eyes. "I'm sure those come in handy during your amorous encounters as well…"

Knowing Aimee was too far away to physically scold the man for his words, Train extended his Cat Claws and swiped at the man's forehead, cutting a strand of hair that fell down the side of his face with his sharp bots.

Sergey gasped and clutched his hair, giving the cat an angry look. "Kakogo cherta, Train?!" (15)

Train laughed at the man's reaction and deactivated his bots. "That was for thinking more lewd thoughts about my vozlyublennyy. Smotri s moyego zherebtsa, Sergey." (16)

Sergey rolled his eyes and ran his fingers through his hair to make sure the cat didn't mess anything else up and mumbled his words. "I liked that lock…"

Train smirked and took out another Theremin. "It'll grow back."

Sergey glared at Train, then glanced at Creed. "You two really need to learn how to share…"

Train extended his claws again, threatening the man subtly with his look. "Care to lose the rest of it?"

Sergey swallowed and clutched his hair, shaking his head wildly as he decided to step away from the gunman and towards his other friends. The cat watched him walk away with amusement dancing in his golden eyes, proud of himself for getting the voracious man to walk away from both him and his partner.

These Nanomachines are coming in handy for everyday use as well. Who knew I could use them to ward off Creed's predator?

He glanced at his partner who was still staring at his phone. "Creed? Everything okay?"

Creed put his phone away and smiled. "Yes, Train. Let me show you how to play one of these."

I'm sure I'm just overthinking it…

Still, there was something in his gut that was telling him to wait on responding to the woman for now. At least until he had more time to work out the feeling he was experiencing.

I'll respond to E later…. Right now, I want to spend time with Train and my friends.

"Is anyone else hungry? I'm starving!"

Creed rolled his eyes. "That's not news. You're always hungry, Train."

Train pouted. "I know… But, I'm asking if anyone else is hungry."

Creed chuckled and pinched Train's cheek. "Like that's ever stopped you from eating before."

Train narrowed his eyes at Creed and smacked his hand away. "Shut up! Maybe I wasn't even talking to you anyway. Ever think of that? Not everything's about you, Creed!"

Creed feigned a hurt look and fell against his love's arm, clinging to it tightly as he spoke in a whiney voice. "Oh, but my sweet Kitten, I am ever so hungry! Are you going to let your dear partner starve to death?!"

Train rolled his eyes and pushed the man off. "Drama Creed has returned yet again…"

Creed smiled sweetly at his love, then addressed his question to Dae. "Was there anything to eat in Anastasia's apartment upstairs?"

Dae frowned over her shoulder at him. "There was, but we had to throw most of it away. The only edible things that are left are canned foods."

Creed grimaced. "I'll pass on the processed foods. Train, what do you want?"

Train made an annoyed sound. "Uuugh, don't make me choose! You already know what I'm going to say."

Creed giggled and pet his beloved's cheek gently. "Everything?"

Train nodded as he sat on the floor and began poking a Theremin. "Take a vote and I'll abstain since I'll eat anything."

"Too late, I'm already having Chinese food sent here." Sergey pocketed his phone and noticed Creed was giving him an annoyed look. "What? I hate these conversations amongst friends about where or what to eat. I just avoided that headache by making an executive decision."

Creed sighed and sat next to his beloved, smacking the cat's hands away so he wouldn't break the instrument. "Whatever. As long as Train's happy with the choice, I'm happy."

Seeing his Kitten was too preoccupied with the Theremin sitting in front of him to care what Sergey said, Creed rolled his eyes and took his love's hand, guiding him to the correct position to play the instrument. He smiled as Train's face lit up, the cute expression setting Creed's heart on fire as he moved his love's hands around the instrument.

---

"Damnit..." Train cursed as he fumbled with his Ukulele in one arm, a sleeping Aimee in the other.

It had been several hours since they finished checking all Theremins, but Train didn't think he needed to be involved in Creed's conversation with Dae and Sergey about the small details of the school. So, while they were talking, Train sat with Aimee and played his Ukulele. He figured he may as well keep himself busy until Creed was done, and since he brought the instrument everywhere with him, he knew that would be a good distraction.

It also seemed like Aimee enjoyed his playing, and she even engaged him in quiet conversation while he played. Train was ecstatic that the girl suddenly felt close enough to him to talk to him, even if it was mostly her correcting him on how he was playing the Ukulele. He was enjoying their time together, but eventually she fell asleep against his shoulder and, as cute as Aimee was while she was sleeping, he figured he should put her to bed.

However, when he walked up the stairs to the apartment, curiosity got the better of the cat and he ended up exploring the apartment instead of putting Aimee to bed.

I never imagined this place would be as big as it is! But, I guess I shouldn't be surprised considering how large the building is.

The apartment may have only been one floor, but since it was as long and wide as the music school, it was surprisingly large. He had already walked past two bathrooms, a kitchen, a common room, and a room with a piano in it that looked very much like the practice rooms that were scattered throughout the building.

How did she get a piano up here…?

Feeling Aimee jostle slightly in his arms, Train smiled warmly, tightened his grip around her, then continued searching for a bedroom.

Whatever. I need to get her to bed.

As he stepped away from the practice room, he opened the next door down and smirked at the bed he saw. "There we go! Time for beddy-bye, Aimee!"

He chuckled as the girl frowned as if she could hear his ridiculous sentence and walked over to the bed, setting the girl on top of the plush mattress. He watched with reverence as she cuddled into the sheets, curling her small body into a ball as she sighed peacefully.

She's a lot like Eve, so I'm sure she'd hate me vocalizing how cute she is. But, I can think it without infuriating her.

Train pulled the blankets back and wrapped them around the girl who smiled adorably and whispered something under her breath. "Thank you, Mama…"

Train felt his heart break at the devastatingly cute response, then frowned down at Aimee.

I didn't know that's what she called Anastasia… She just gets cuter by the second!

The irony of the girl being as cute as she was yet still speaking and acting like a full grown adult was not lost on the Black Cat. It reminded him of Eve even more.

No wonder they became friends. I wonder if she speaks to Eve. Or Dae, for that matter.

Train knew Aimee spoke to Anastasia and she spoke a little to Creed, but he didn't know who else was on her list of people she'd be willing to talk to. He imagined she said a few things to Dae, otherwise Anastasia wouldn't have left the girl to her.

The cat stood up and took in the room around him to figure out it was Aimee's or Anastasia's. He was having a difficult time figuring it out since the decorations were rather bland and generic.

Anastasia had no taste in décor. Well, maybe she didn't have much here since they were always changing locations. Is how vacant the rest of her places look like?

Train shrugged his shoulders and walked around the room.

If Creed and I end up moving in here, he'll probably change that.

That thought made him glance down at Aimee with a curious look in his eyes. "Would you be offended if we moved in here…?"

The girl's soft smile and tender sigh was his only response. However, he had a feeling that was her subconscious approval. After the conversations he had with her throughout the day, he could tell she wanted him and Creed to have a cliche happily ever after ending.

And I know Anastasia would want us to move in here. She'd probably yell at us if we didn't.

Train laughed as he heard the woman berating him, then continued taking the room in. If he and Creed were going to live there, he figured may as well get used to the layout.

As Train circled the room, he stopped when he spotted a picture sitting on the dresser. He smiled as he picked it up, tracing the frame with his index finger as he eyed the portrait. It was a picture of much, much younger Anastasia and another woman Train assumed was her wife

The music teacher's spouse was sporting a large, saucy smile that told Train everything he needed to know about her personality. There was a blazing gleam shining brightly in her dark eyes, and her dark, unruly hair listed to the sky as if it were summoning her back to Heaven. Her dark complexion contrasted Anastasia's light skin in a very complimentary manner, as if their difference in tone was one of the many things that made them match them so well.

And the way Anastasia is looking at her… It's exactly how Creed looks at me…

The more he stared at the picture, the more he could see how similar her relationship with her wife was to his partnership with Creed. He assumed that was one of the reasons she was so attached to the two of them, but that photo was physical proof of his inference. They were even posed in a similar way to what he and Creed would do for photos. Anastasia was leaning forward with her wife on her back, the other woman holding up bunny ears behind the music teacher's head while her other arm was wrapped around the woman's neck.

The resemblance is uncanny. I think I even have a picture of me and Creed just like this.

Train walked back towards the bed with the picture.

I wonder if she'd like to keep this photo….

Train knew Aimee had been living with Dae at her house and seeing how much was still left in the apartment, he assumed they hadn't had time to move much of her belongings out.

That, or maybe she's not ready to fully move out yet…

Train placed the picture on the nightstand next to the bed, patting it slightly as he smiled. "Don't worry, Anastasia, we'll be sure to take care of her."

And we won't force her to move on before she's ready.

As much as Train wanted to live alone with his lover, he didn't want to do it at the cost of Aimee's comfort. As sure as he was that the girl would be happy to have him and Creed move into her old home, he wanted to make sure she was ready.

We've waited this long to have our happy ending, we can wait a bit longer.

Train looked away from Aime and at the large window on the other side of the room.

It looks big enough to get a piano through… Is that how they did it?

He didn't know much about moving pianos, but Creed explained that it required professionals who used some kind of pulley system to get it up stairs. Curious as he always was, Train walked to the window and pushed it open with one hand, his other still wrapped around his Ukulele. When he peeked his head outside, he smiled cheerfully.

Oh, this potential fairytale ending just keeps getting better and better!

The window had a very small ledge it on that gave the cat just enough room to comfortably stand on to reach the roof. He grabbed the edge and easily pulled himself up, then walked towards the center of the building. What made it even better was unlike their sweeper hideouts, that roof was flat and much easier to sit on.

And probably much easier to lay on too. We could even set up a small table here if we wanted.

Train smiled, his mind swimming with the possibilities, then he shook his head to rid himself of the thoughts.

I can't get ahead of myself. Creed hasn't even brought it up yet and we need to make sure Aimee is okay with it first.

Still, as he sat down on the roof and stared at the moon, his heart swelled with hope and his mind was consumed with ambition. The thought of laying up there with Creed every night before going to bed was a magical, mystical dream for him, and it made him forget all the negative connotations he previously had with the school.

This entire day has been therapeutic. Between Creed's friends not holding grudges against me and the new memories we've created today, I can't imagine ever feeling anxious here again.

The stars twinkled brightly at his thoughts, making the cat chuckle. "I know, Saya, I know. But, there's still a few things we need to finish up before we have our tear-jerking, picturesque ending. We still have a war to win."

And I still need to talk to Aliane…

He wasn't sure what he was going to say to the woman when he saw her, but he knew it needed to happen. Yes, she was the reason he was kidnapped in the first place, but she was also the reason he was safe. That created conflicting emotions in the gunman, and he knew the only way he'd be able to work out those complicated feelings was by talking to her.

I don't know how she'll respond to my presence, but I have a feeling she wants to talk as well.

Creed told Train how the woman claimed to feel about him, but it seemed as though that wasn't the primary reason she wanted to save the cat. It sounded like her time with the sweepers made her realize what it was like to have a family that loved one another unconditionally, which might have been the dominant thought in her mind when she decided to betray the Apostles.

I wonder what her plan is… Or I guess I wonder what Sephiria's plan for her is.

Train wasn't naive enough to believe Aliane had a choice in anything she did with her life anymore. She was a prisoner of Chronos.

But, maybe that's for the best… If she were out on her own, the Apostles would most certainly kill her. At least Chronos intends on keeping her alive… For now.

Not wanting to think about it anymore, Train decided to start strumming his Ukulele instead. He also didn't see the need to work out what he was going to say to the girl, since he figured all of it would go out the window the moment he saw her. He'd just have to wait and see how he felt when he saw her, and let his instincts lead the conversation.

Thinking about it will only drive me insane.

He frowned as he strummed the next chord of the song he was trying to play, cursing under his breath as he messed it up.

"Damnit…"

He tried to strum it again and again, but continued failing with each of his hands movements. Figuring his fingering might have been off, he re-positioned his digits along the frets and tried again. He growled when he messed up again, glaring down at the instrument as if his incompetence was its fault.

I had this chord down the other day. Why can't I do it now?

He cursed again as the chord came out with an unpleasant raucous intonation instead of a harmonious timbre. Again, he adjusted his fingers, and strummed. He growled in frustration at the discordant sound and fell back against the roof of the roof, spreading his arms and legs wide as he stared up at the moon.

"Maybe Aimee's right, that chord might just be too hard for me right now…"

"What chord is that, my love?"

Train sat up slightly to watch his partner climb up the roof and approach him, a sweet, admiring smile on his face as he met the Black Cat's dreamy gaze. Train felt his heart skip a beat when Creed walked directly under one of the moon's beams, making the silver man's body glow with an ethereal ambience which caused a palatial, exalting smile to spread across the golden man's delicate lips.

As he watched Creed walk closer to him, the avid and ambitious ball of fire in his chest grew, making Train's mind and heart saunter to more enamored thoughts of their future.

I'm shocked I was able to go as long as I did not without seeing how obviously beautiful he is.

Train continued smiling as Creed took a seat next to him and held the Ukulele back against his chest. "D. Aimee was trying to help me with it earlier, but it's just so difficult. My fingers are too big to fit that close to one another!"

Creed giggled and leaned over his beloved to adjust his fingers slightly. "That's because you're stacking them wrong. Try it with your index finger on the top string instead of the second one."

Train allowed his partner to adjust his fingers, then strummed the chord again when he was finished. The cat sighed. "Why didn't I think of that?"

Creed pulled up one knee to his chest and rested his cheek on it as he gazed lovingly at his Kitten. "Because you didn't grow up with music as a crutch like I did."

Train frowned and continued strumming. "I thought you didn't have access to a piano as a kid."

Creed sighed and watched his love's fingers. "I didn't always, but when I did it was great. You know that music store I told you about where they used to let me play their piano? They also let me play a few other instruments as well. If it wasn't the piano, I usually went for the guitar."

Train nodded in understanding, eyes still on his fingers as he practiced changing chords and asked a question. "If that's the case, why didn't you teach me the guitar instead?"

Creed smirked teasingly and looked at Train's face. "Because the Ukulele is easier."

Train frowned and lifted his head to meet his lover's eyes. "Are you saying I'm too dumb and talentless to learn something like the guitar?"

Creed giggled and shrugged his shoulders. "Your talents and intelligence are not that of music. You have worldly and battle knowledge, but you don't have the brain on a musician."

Train continued watching his partner, his heart beating fast as the man stared up at the sky. "So, you decided to give me the instrument for dummies to rope me into your world?"

Creed giggled again and Train was captivated by the way his face shimmered euphorically in the glistening stars that glittered the dark sky. "You know I'd do anything to bring you more into my world, Train."

Train smiled, unable to respond to the man's loving words since he was too lost in how incredible he looked sitting beneath the stars that were waltzing seemingly intentionally across his porcelain skin. As the cat's eyes scanned Creed's face, they stopped when they landed on the swordsman's azure eyes, noticing for the first time the specks of crimson that used to be there were replaced with bits of lavender instead. As if his physical body altered itself when his emotional and mental one did.

Is that because of the night sky, or did it really change?

Wanting to know the answer to his question, Train reached out and cupped Creed's cheek, turning the man's head so their eyes met. The silver man thawed at the heat in his love's eyes, smiling lavishly as his beloved's amber eyes scorched his soul. He dared not blink for fear of losing out on a single moment of Train's perfect eyes burning lustrously in the moonlight.

"Train…" Creed whispered, his voice coming out more breathless than he expected. "What are you thinking about?"

Train only barely registered the man's voice, his mind fading in and out of reality as he tried to decipher the color of his lover's brillant, passionate eyes.

No matter how many times I see them in the moonlight, they always take my breath away.

Train frowned when Creed blinked, since it prevented him from scrutinizing his magnificent irises further. "Don't blink. I'll miss it."

Creed forced himself not to blink, placing his hands on Train's chest as he spoke. "Miss what?"

Train smiled slightly as he whispered his next words. "Your eyes… How can they possibly shine this brightly in such a dark sky?"

Creed was overcome with love at Train words, then let out an exhilarated exhale when Train pressed his lips against his own. Creed gripped tightly at his beloved's chest, overjoyed with the fact that Train's shirt was opened enough that his fingers were greeted with the ebullient thrill of his warm skin and hard muscles. When he felt Train's tongue slip between his lips, he leaned into the golden man, his body melding with the Black Cat's as he wrapped his arm around Creed's back.

After a few minutes, Train pulled away and locked back onto Creed's eyes. "Did you know there are speckles of lavender in your eyes now?"

Creed blinked in confusion and touched the area next to his eyes lightly. "What?"

Train nodded and kissed Creed again. "It used to be crimson, but now it's lavender. It's breathtaking."

Creed didn't know it was still possible for Train to make him blush, but he did. "That might be their natural color. My body could be resetting itself after getting the Chronos drug out of my system."

Train frowned as he ran his fingers around Creed's hair. "You don't remember what color your eyes were before Chronos?"

Creed shook his head. "No. Before Chronos, I never looked at myself. Nor did anyone look at me."

Train frowned, sensing the sadness in his lover's voice and took the man in his arms, kissing the top of his gently to get his thoughts back on the present. As he ran his fingers through Creed's hair, he asked another question. "You think the drug can do that?"

Creed shrugged his shoulders and leaned into Train's chest. "No idea, it's just a guess. It could also be a metaphorical change as well."

Train kissed Creed again. "You mean because crimson is considered an aggressive color?"

Creed nodded his head and continued accepting each of the kisses his Kitten was giving him. "Yes. And lavender symbolizes purity, serenity, grace, tranquility, and femininity. Which are all things I have been feeling more and more as the years pass."

Train cocked an eyebrow. "You feel more feminine?"

Creed smacked his shoulder. "I've always been more feminine than most men!"

Train chuckled and shielded himself from his lover's blows. "I emphasized the words wrong! I meant you're feeling more feminine? As in, I didn't think that was possible!"

Creed growled and continued smacking his love. "And what's wrong with that?!"

Train continued laughing. "Nothing, I actually like it."

Seeing the teasing smirk on his love's face, Creed stopped hitting him, then pressed his body harshly into Train's, sliding one of his hands up the cat's thigh as he spoke. "Do you need a reminder of who's the more dominant one in the relationship…?"

Train smirked, but did not stop Creed's hand. "Just you wait 'til the day I turn the tables…"

"What was that?" Creed asked as he eyed his cat curiously.

Train brushed his lover's words aside and cupped Creed's cheek. "Nothing. And no reminder necessary, my Dear Stallion." The cat outlined the back of the swordsman's hand with his fingers. "Sounds like your eyes are more similar to mine than previously thought."

Creed giggled and watched the orange and red weaved extraordinarily with his love's normal golden hue. "Our Tao as well. Remember, my Imagine Blade reacts to my emotions as well."

Train blinked, then smiled. "Oh yeah, I nearly forgot about that."

Creed pressed his face against Train's. "Just another reason we were meant to be…"

Train smiled, and kissed his partner again, making sure it lasted a bit longer than his previous one did. His one hand remained against Creed's face, the other running through his silver locks gently as he slowly tasted every inch of the other man's mouth. Creed returned the kiss with vigor, pressing his face harshly, yet lovingly against Train's as he explored his beloved's mouth with intense desire.

When they pulled away, Creed rested his forehead against Train's and decided to ask a question of his own. "What song were you trying to play?"

Train smiled and retracted his hands, much to Creed's dismay, and placed them back on the instrument. "It's actually supposed to be a surprise…"

Creed's sadness at losing Train's hands quickly changed to interest. "Really? For me?"

Train rolled his eyes. "No, for Sergey. Who else would it be for?"

Creed pouted and leaned his chin on Train's shoulder. "Don't joke about things like that. He'll hear you and come running."

Train chuckled. "Are they still here?"

Creed shook his head. "No. Dae woke Aimee up and took her home with Francisco. Sergey left soon after that. Well… after I yelled at him to get out before I called the cops."

Train laughed a little louder as he continued strumming. "I'm shocked you haven't done that yet. And he'd come running for you, not me."

Creed lightly bit Train's shoulder. "Shut up…"

Train stopped his strumming momentarily so he could flick Creed's forehead. He turned back to the instrument, starting at the beginning of the song and switching much easier between chords thanks to Creed's suggestion. It was a song he was practicing before he was kidnapped, and being back at the school inspired him to start it again. It was one of the first songs he wanted to learn on his own in part due to Anastasia's demands for him to do something other than annoy her, but mostly because of his desire to do something romantic for Creed.

Too bad I can't sing…

However, as he was strumming, he heard Creed's nectarous, sultry voice accompanying him.

"What would I do without your smart mouth?

Drawing me in, and you kicking me out

You've got my head spinning, no kidding, I can't pin you down..."

Train glanced at his partner, smiling warmly as Creed sang the song on his behalf. The silver man winked at his beloved, then continued singing.

"What's going on in that beautiful mind?

I'm on your magical mystery ride

And I'm so dizzy, don't know what hit me, but I'll be alright..."

When Creed melodically enunciated those words, he ran his fingers through Train's hair, massaging the side of his head slightly as if he was trying to read his Kitten's mind. He smiled, then leaned forward and gave him a quick kiss on the forehead. He then rested his chin back against Train's shoulder, staring adoringly at his beloved as he continued the song.

"My head's under water

But I'm breathing fine

You're crazy and I'm out of my mind…"

Creed kept his eyes locked onto Train's face as he sang the first part of the chorus, watching as his love concentrated on playing the chords with the correct rhythm and tempo. He could tell Train was working hard to not mess up their duet, and it made the swordsman body stir with an intense level of passionate love the silver man knew only Train would entice in him.

"'Cause all of me

Loves all of you

Love your curves and all your edges

All your perfect imperfections…"

Creed carefully wrapped his arm around Train's elbow as he sang the chorus, trying to make sure he didn't mess up his beloved's performance. He beamed when he saw the small smile on his partner's face and pressed his lips lightly against Train's neck, giving him a small kiss before he went on with the rest of the melody.

"Give your all to me

I'll give my all to you

You're my end and my beginning

Even when I lose, I'm winning

'Cause I give you all of me

And you give me all of you..."

Creed placed his hand on Train's, helping him switch between the chords when he noticed the cat was stumbling a little. He saw a light shade of pink quickly appear then disappear from Train's cheeks, causing the swordsman to giggle at little as he finally ended the chorus.

"How many times do I have to tell you?

Even when you're crying, you're beautiful too

The world is beating you down, I'm around through every mood..."

Creed gently cupped his love's cheek when he said those words, wiping away invisible tears, swooning slightly as Train leaned into the gesture and locked eyes with him briefly. However, the golden irises Creed was so enamored with left his sight too soon, but he understood why. They needed to stay on the Ukulele in order for the duet to continue.

"You're my downfall, you're my muse

My worst distraction, my rhythm and blues

I can't stop singing, it's ringing in my head for you…"

Train chuckled lightly when Creed pinched his thigh, letting the cat know those words in particular matched the way the silver man left about him. Train picked out that song because it reminded him of how he felt about Creed, but the more he got into the song with his partner singing the words next to him, he realized how perfectly it also fit the way his lover always described his feelings for him.

"My head's under water

But I'm breathing fine

You're crazy and I'm out of my mind..."

Train rolled his eyes when Creed pointed to his own head, emphasizing how out of his mind he believed he was. Train loved that part of the song since he felt like it empitamized Creed perfectly. Despite his intelligence, Creed always was the crazy one and the fact that the silverette was singing the words amused Trian to no ends.

"'Cause all of me

Loves all of you

Love your curves and all your edges

All your perfect imperfections…"

Creed ran his fingers up and down Train's thigh as he sang those words, resting the side of his head against his beloved's as he stared up at the sky, watching the star twinkled brightly at their mellifluous duet, knowing for sure both Anastasia and Saya were smiling down on them.

"Give your all to me

I'll give my all to you

You're my end and my beginning

Even when I lose, I'm winning

'Cause I give you all of me

And you give me all of you

Give me all of you..."

Creed shut his eyes as he finished the chorus, enjoying the way Train's muscular arm moved up and down as he strummed the chords. His arm was still wrapped around the cat's elbow, giving him the best position to feel how hard his panther was working to keep the moment perfect.

"Cards on the table, we're both showing hearts

Risking it all, though it's hard…"

He felt Train head butt him slightly when he sang those words, making the silver man bring his attention back to the cat. Creed smiled at the apotheosis look Train gave him, then ran the back of his hand against his beloved's face.

"'Cause all of me

Loves all of you

Love your curves and all your edges

All your perfect imperfection

Give your all to me

I'll give my all to you

You're my end and my beginning

Even when I lose, I'm winning

'Cause I give you all of me

And you give me all of you…"

Creed kept his arm wrapped tightly around Train's as he went through the chorus, his forehead resting against his love's as he poured his heart and soul into every word he sang. He wanted Train to feel how much he connected with the words, how he believed they so accurately depicted the way he felt about the golden man. It had always been his dream to sing that song to Train, and now that he could perform it alongside his Kitten, his heart felt full.

"I give you all of me

And you give me all of you…"

As he finished the song, he smiled warmly at Train, then spoke in a quiet voice. "How'd you know about my emotional attachment to that song?"

Train blinked. "I didn't. I just picked it because it described my feelings for you."

Creed chuckled and squeezed his love's cheeks. "I love it for the same reason. It's like the song was made specifically for us. I actually planned on serenading you with it on the piano."

Train lightly pulled Creed's hair. "Don't steal my ideas!"

Creed yelped at the playful gesture. "I stole nothing! I thought of it long before you even knew what a Ukulele was. Besides, that song describes my feelings for you better than yours for me!"

Train smirked. "Are you trying to entice my naturally competitive behavior to defend my emotions so I'll tell you exactly how I feel about you?"

Creed shrugged his shoulders and cuddled further into his love. "You wouldn't know how to even if you tried…"

Train set his Ukulele aside so he could wrap his arm around Creed. "Okay, first of all the lyrics: 'You're crazy and I'm out of my mind', who else could that possibly be about? Also, the world is always beating you down and you experience such crazy mood swings sometimes, but I'll always be around through every one of them."

Creed smirked. "Mood swings?"

Train nodded. "That's right. You're the one that said you're more feminine than most men."

Creed smacked his beloved's shoulder. "Stop being sexist!"

Train laughed and grabbed Creed's hand, kissing it gently as he spoke. "You know I'm just teasing." He kissed each of his lover's fingers, then asked another question. "Did I properly convince you of the song reflecting my feelings?"

Creed giggled and lifted himself up so he could crawl in between Train's legs and leaned against his chest. "I guess, but I think I have a better argument…"

Train gave him a curious look as he spread his legs to give Creed more room. "Oh? Do tell."

Creed smirked as he settled between his legs. "Well, you're the one with the smart mouth that draws me in and used to kick me out. And you are most certainly my downfall, my muse, my worst disaster, my rhythm and blues."

Train felt his heart fill with heat as Creed cupped his cheek and sang those words to him again. "...Guess I can't argue any of that. Although, it's not fair that your voice is just as beautiful as the rest of you. That's the only thing that puts you ahead in this debate."

Creed chuckled as he rested his head against Train's chest. "It's all just a part of the Creed Diskenth package. Take me as I am." He sighed as he felt his cat's hand running up and down his arm. "The only part of the song I disagree with is the imperfections. Because you have none. You are perfect."

Train rolled his eyes. "No one is perfect, and besides, the point of the song is that imperfections make a person perfect. And I think that's more what you mean when you say I'm perfect."

Creed thought about what Train said, then shook his head. "No. You'll never get me to admit you're anything less than perfect."

Train bit Creed's shoulder, causing a scintillating giggle to erupt from the silverette's lips. The cat then kissed the spot he bit and rested his chin against his partner's shoulder.

Creed smiled warmly, staying like that for several minutes before deciding to ask a question. "Train… How do you feel being here?"

Train smiled, knowing exactly where Creed was going and answered his question with a confusing response. "The answer is yes, Creed."

Creed blinked in confusion at his love. "Yes to what?"

Train pinched Creed's nose. "Yes, I'll move in with you here. But, I want to make sure Aimee is okay with it first. There are a lot of memories for her here, and I don't want to trample on them."

Creed's confused look quickly changed into a delighted smile, and he nodded enthusiastically. "Dae said she already talked to Aimee about it and she actually wants to help us move in. She said Anatasia wanted that almost as much as she wanted me to run the business, so she's just been waiting for us to be ready to make the move."

Train laughed and wrapped his arms around the silver man to pull him tighter against his chest. "Well then, that settles it. We finally found a place to live our happily ever after."

Creed made an adorable squealing noise, then frowned as another thought occurred to him. "Will you… be ready to leave our friends? I know being around them helps."

Train's smile never left his lips as he spoke. "Yes, I'm ready. As much as their presence helps me, the idea of finally starting my life with you helps more. I can't think of anything else I want more than to begin my life's journey with you." He paused his sentence, then looked down at his partner. "Just, promise me one thing, Creed?"

Creed nodded and took Train's head in his hands. "Anything, my love."

Train smiled and looked up at the sky. "Promise me that we'll never stop moving. I don't want to stay in one place forever. Promise me that we'll see the rest of the world."

Creed sighed blissfully at the tranquil, yet adventurous glint in his love's eyes. He turned Train's head to face him, massaging his soft cheek with his thumb as he spoke. "Of course, Train. I may be able to tether your heart to mine, but I'll never be able to tether your free spirit to anything one place. We can go anywhere you want."

Train beamed brightly at his partner, then looked back up at the sky. "Thank you, Creed."

Creed smiled as he rested his head against Train's chest, watching his love watch the sky, knowing his Kitten was smiling gratefully up at Saya.

As soon as we get through this war with our past lives, I'll give you anything your heart desires.

He sighed and shut his eyes, allowing the warmth and comfort of Train to lull him to sleep.

---

Translation:

(1) "Seriously, can't you keep it in your pants for a day."

(2) "You can't tell me you'd be able to keep your hands to yourself either."

(3) "I'm sure I'd have far more fun experiencing yours."

(4) "Train is property of me, and I am property of Train. You'll have to find another tree to bark up."

(5) "What's wrong with sharing?"

(6) "...I will never share Train with anyone."

(7) "You're both aware I can hear and understand you, right?"

(8/9)"PERVERT!"

(10) "I thought I'd at least be safe from that damn cane now…"

(11) "You'll never be safe from Anastasia's wrath."

(12) "This is your business after all."

(13) "Keep your pants on, we're coming."

(14) "Especially considering the present company…"

(15) "What the hell, Train?!"

(16) "Lover. Eyes off my Stallion, Sergey."