The Next Step
* * *
OR: No, Nothing *Happens*, You Hentais!
* * *
Part 1: The Calm Before the Storm
* * *
This is the next story in what I'm currently calling simply the "Masquerade" saga. As I've emphatically stated above, this story is not about what most likely came to all of your minds (not that I blame you, those images are very tempting). This one deals with real issues (sort of), but has plenty of Kensuke goodness (Mmmmm...Kensukey [Sorry, I'm watching the Simpsons right now]). So, enjoy!
* * *
"Mmm...you're looking nice this morning," Ken murmured, kissing Daisuke's neck. "It's a wonder you're still a virgin." Daisuke laughed, and pushed Ken away.
"Because I've got something called self-control? By the way, don't you have a meeting today?" Ken moaned, and walked towards the door.
"I don't want to go..." He sighed. "I had fun; hopefully we can find time for something like this again soon." Daisuke grinned.
"Yeah, well, as an artist, I generally have no commitments, except for Tuesdays, where I have dinner with Jun's family. It's all up to you, so call me." Ken smiled, gave Daisuke another kiss, and hurried out to the car. When he arrived at work, and went to grab a few papers, Leah stopped him.
"Another night at Daisuke's?" she asked smugly. Ken nodded, and she continued typing. "I cannot believe the two of you spend all night just cuddling. Frankly I'd think that the two of you would-"
"*Thank* you, Leah. He wants to go slow, and I love him, so I'm not going to pressure him. Besides, any time I spend with him is enough, no matter what we're doing." He walked back from his office, but nearly lost it when Leah voiced her next question.
"So you have trouble...performing?"
"No! I-Why have I not fired you yet?"
"Do you know how hard it is to find a good secretary?" she retorted smugly.
"Gods, I can't deal with this now."
"Tell Daisuke I send my love!"
* * *
"You know, sometimes I can't believe he's actually my koi. I mean, he's just about the kindest, smartest, most beautiful person I know, and he's dating me!" Daisuke handed the pot of tea to Kanna. The elderly woman took it, and smiled back at him.
"And you are just about the most energetic, talented, and courageous young man I've ever met. You abandoned a sure-fire soccer career for the topsy-turvy art world, and did it with enough enthusiasm that I can't tell you that you made a bad decision. By the way, have you actually sold anything yet?" Daisuke shook his head, and took a sip of his tea.
"No, but...five years of playing soccer has left me enough money to live comfortably for quite a while, so..." He shrugged. "And is it possible that Jinushi-san could help me move one of my canvases? 'Birth of Evil' is not helping anyone, so I was going to get rid of it. Frankly, it makes Ken-chan nervous." Kanna placed her teacup down, and stood up.
"Even better, I'll help you right now with it." Daisuke stood up and led her out the door.
"All right. It's big rather than actually heavy, but it's awkward to carry, so we should be careful." She nodded, and they reached his apartment. After unlocking it, Daisuke headed back to find it among the mess of several canvases, dozens of paint tubes, paintbrushes, scraps of paper, and various other items that may or may not have had anything to do with art. Kanna picked up a discarded sketch, and whistled.
"My, that's risqué." Daisuke entered, carrying the rather large piece of paper he had framed earlier. "And you two have only been dating for two weeks. I mean, talk about-"
"That's quite enough," Daisuke snapped. "I was having a bad day, so I thought to sketch Ken-chan, and, well, things got out of hand...Now help me carry this." She grabbed one end of the frame, and the walked it out the door. "Let's get it outside to the dumpster." The traveled in silence, and were soon outside. They were halfway to the alleyway next to the apartment building when someone tapped Daisuke on the shoulder.
"Excuse me, I couldn't help noticing that exquisite painting, and I was wondering if it was for sale." The woman, a brunette with hair tied in a tight bun, looked hopefully at Daisuke. "You see, my husband is a collector of dark pieces, and this would make a perfect addition."
"Um, actually, I was just throwing this out," Daisuke explained. "So you can take it if you want."
"My gods! This is what you throw *out*?!" She pulled out her wallet. "I'll give you $500 for it." Daisuke stammered, and Kanna jumped in.
"That would be fine. Make it out to Motimoya Daisuke." The woman scribbled, but then looked up in surprise.
"The soccer player?" Daisuke managed to nod. "You gave up a lucrative soccer career for painting?" She glanced at the picture she had just bought. "Why in the world did you ever pursue soccer when you're such a good artist?" Daisuke was still in a state of shock, and could only concentrate on his reddened cheeks.
"It's lovely to meet you, Miss, but this is his first sale, so please excuse him. I hope your husband enjoys the painting!" The woman took the frame, and wandered off down the street. Kanna turned to Daisuke, and handed him the check. "You made your first sale, Dai-kun!"
* * *
"Takeru, I'd love to stay here with you, but I have classes today," Iori protested. Takeru, kept his arms wrapped around Iori's shoulders, and pouted at him. "Take-chan, you know I love you, but-"
"No buts, just stay," he pleaded. Iori hugged him and stepped towards the door.
"I'll see you tonight, Take-chan." He kissed his nose and turned for the door, but found his arm restrained. "Take-chan..."
"I'll let you go after you tell me what 'IoriT' means."
"My screen name?" A nod. "It means Iori Takaishi. Ja!" In a moment, Iori was out the door, and Takeru smiled. Then, he walked over to the phone and dialed a familiar number. The phone rang three times, and then it was answered.
"Listen, we don't want anything, and I swear to god, if you're offering credit card upgrades, I will hunt you down and kill you."
"My, aren't we cranky in the morning! Hi, 'Niichan!"
"Gods, anyone up and cheerful this early in the morning should be shot," Yamato muttered. "I don't even have to be up for another three hours."
"Tired, big brother?"
"Our anniversary was yesterday." Takeru smiled.
"I'm sorry; I should have realized you'd be tired."
"Grrrr..." Takeru could only giggle. "You know, the way Daisuke and Ken are acting reminds me of when Taichi and I first got together."
"Except he lost his virginity to you on the second date," Takeru replied.
"I'd kill you if we weren't brothers."
"It's nice to see how dedicated you are to family. So, how about dinner on Friday night? Is everything set?"
"Yeah...Tai-chan's getting work off, and I cancelled all my appointments."
"You know, you're not the type of person I'd expect to end up as a psychologist. I mean, you had the most severe psychological scars of all of us."
"I'm hanging up now."
"Ja, Yama-kun!"
* * *
Ken slammed his door behind him, and walked over to his answering machine. Pressing the play button, he leaned on his kitchen counter to listen to the messages.
*beep*
"Hi, this is Dr. Kinomoto. I am calling regarding my stocks-" Ken pressed the erase button.
"Hi, Ken, this is Hikari. I was calling to remind you that everyone's having dinner at my brother's on Friday. See you then, and remember that you can bring a date."
"Yeah, right. His date's going to be there."
"Miya! I-" Her words were replaced by-
"Ew!" Another message erased.
"Hi, Ken-chan! I was calling 'cause I thought you should be the first to know. I was taking 'Birth of Evil' out to the trash 'cause it made you nervous and everything, and this woman came up and said her husband collected art like that, and she gave me $500 for the painting! I am officially a professional artist! Whoo-hoo! Sorry, I'm just excited." Ken pressed the 'save' button.
"Hi, Ken, I was thinking, if you're not too busy tonight, if we can go out to dinner around 8? Please call back." The messages were over, so Ken grabbed the phone and dialed. He got the answering machine.
"Hi, this is Motimoya Daisuke. I'm not in right now, so leave a message. If you're a rabid fangirl, I'd really rather you didn't." *Beep*
"Hi, Dai-chan. It's Ken. I just got your message, and I'd love to go out, but...I'm really, really tired. I would like to see you, though. So maybe you could come over? Please call soon, and I could hold off dinner until you get here. Ja, Dai-chan."
* * *
"You know, of course, this whole perfect relationship thing can't last," Jun said, handing a plate of sushi to her brother. "Hiro and I lasted a month before any problems came up, but for you...I'd say another week at best." Daisuke glared at her.
"Can't I have a simple meal with my sister without getting prophecies of doom?" Jun smiled at him.
"I'm not making 'prophecies of doom', Dai-kun. I'm just warning you that things can't be perfect forever. There'll be problems, and I want you to know that if you work at it, you can overcome these problems. You're a Motimoya, so I don't want you to give up just because you'll have problems. There'll be fights, difficulties, and you might have problems just because the two of you are guys. Just promise me that you won't give up until it's completely hopeless." Daisuke nodded, but then flashed her a grin.
"If there's one thing I learned from my friend Takeru, it's that there's always hope." Jun's eyes sparkled.
"That's the spirit, Dai-kun."
"Now excuse me, I have to check my messages at home. I invited Ken-chan to dinner."
* * *
"Hi, Dai-chan. It's Ken. I just got your message, and I'd love to go out, but...I'm really, really tired. I would like to see you, though. So maybe you could come over? Please call soon, and I could hold off dinner until you get here. Ja, Dai-chan." Daisuke turned off the answering machine and picked up the phone. He glanced at the clock. 6:30. He dialed Ken's home number, and waited while it rang.
"Answering machine!"
"Hi, this is the residence of Ichijouji Ken. Dr. Kinimoto, if this is you, you talk to my secretary. If you're selling something, hang up now. Otherwise, leave a message." Daisuke grinned.
"Hi, Ken-chan; you know, I like sports, but phone tag is not my favorite game, And incidentally, you sound a little like the Kaiser when you threaten telemarketers. Don't worry; it's a good thing. Anyway..." he trailed off. "Oh, hell, I'll be over around 7, and if you're not back yet, I'll hang outside and see if I can strike up a conversation with your neighbors. So, I'll see you then, and if you're not going to be home, I'm going to kick your ass when I next see you. Ja, Ken-chan!" Daisuke hung up the phone, and grabbed his jacket on his way out the door. He locked the door behind him, and turned to face Kanna.
"Mr. Motimoya, where do you think you're going?" He grinned and walked past her.
"Dinner. With the most beautiful man alive." She gasped, and raised a hand to her mouth.
"My goodness, and I thought you were dating Ichijouji-san!" Daisuke growled, and pushed her aside.
"Yeah, well, don't expect me back until tomorrow, or maybe even Thursday," he replied.
"You know, if I were your mother, I'd say something about being safe or whatever, but since I'm only your landlord...Make sure you live until the next rent check. I wouldn't want to lose my most loyal tenant."
"Your dedication to me is heart-warming, Kanna-san."
"Have a nice time!"
* * *
Ken, carrying a bag of groceries, tripped over a recumbent figure sitting in his hallway.
"What the-?" He glanced down at the body, and smiled. "Well, Dai-chan, I'm glad you came over, but...it might have been better to wait until I got home." Daisuke mumbled, straightening up from his position on the floor.
"Should've been home, Ken-ch'n," he muttered, standing up, using the wall as support. "You also should've warned me 'bout the guard down there; took half-n-hour to convince him." He rubbed his eyes, which then moved from a drowsy gaze to the shining warmth Ken was used to. "And now I'm hungry, so you'd better be ready to eat." Ken fumbled with his bag and unlocked his apartment door.
"Yeah, I'm hungry too. Shall I make us something?" Daisuke shook his head.
"No, I will." At Ken's shocked look, he smiled. "I've been living alone for five years, Ken-chan. I've picked up some basics, and actually, from one of the best. You know, I've never actually been in your apartment. Why is that?" Ken pushed the door in and entered the hallway.
"Because I've been renovating. I meant to ask you over when it was done, but things got a little hectic..." He trailed off, seeing the blank look on the redhead's face. "Um, Dai-chan?" Daisuke's blank look melted, replaced with one of awe.
"It's amazing! Almost like a house." The entry hall opened into the living room, which contained a modest entertainment unit, dominated by a CD player and sound system that looked like something out of the 23rd century. Daisuke hurried forward, and once in the living area, caught sight of the immaculate kitchen, and the hallway leading to the bedrooms. "How many bedrooms are in this place?" he demanded. Ken blushed modestly before answering.
"Three. You have to remember that Miyako and I lived here for three years. We'd planned for a family, and agreed we'd raise it here. Besides, we always wanted to be ready for company. I'm running a successful stock-broking company, Dai-chan, so I thought why not indulge myself a little?" Daisuke grabbed the bag from Ken, and kissed him on the cheek.
"Well, I'll make something for us, you wait here. You have hot sauce, right?" Ken watched the retreating figure, and then dove for his phone. He then punched in one of the many numbers he'd memorized in his time.
* * *
"The phone's ringing, Tai."
"So?" Taichi stayed as he was, huddled up against Yamato on the couch. "They can leave a message."
"*Beep* Hi, this is the Yagami/Ishida household, and we're out right now-
"-Or too exhausted to bother getting out of bed."
"Ishida, you are so dead! Anyway, leave your name, number, and a short message, and we'll get back to you. *beep*" The voice on the phone sounded absolutely panicked.
"Listen, I know you're both home, so one of you pick up." Taichi reached over and plucked the receiver from the cradle.
"Ken? Why are you-?"
"Daisuke's cooking dinner! I need to know who he learned from, and why the hell he needs the hot sauce!" Yamato snatched the phone from his lover and responded.
"He learned from me, Ken-kun. And I *like* hot sauce."
"Not from what I heard. Didn't you nearly kill yourself with some dish made from leftovers?"
"Guys, this is not funny! What am I going to do?" Taichi took the oppurtunity to steal back the phone.
"Well, for later reference, always make sure you're out of hot sauce when he wants to cook. But for now...I'd say hope you have a hell of a lot of milk. If not, ice will do fine. Water won't help anything. Anyway, I want to get back to my Yama-chan, so ja!" Taichi hung up the phone, and turned to Yamato. "He'll be fine, right?"
"Probably."
* * *
"Wow, that was pretty good," Ken complimented, finishing off the last mouthful of rice. "I thought you'd go overboard on hot sauce or something like that." Daisuke grinned, and leaned back in his chair.
"Go overboard? When have you ever known me to do such a thing?"
"I won't dignify that with a response." Daisuke threw his napkin at Ken, then grinned mischievously.
"Just for that, you can wash the dishes. I will be in your living room, watching television." Ken carefully stacked the plates and dishes, and walked into the kitchen-
"My *god*, Daisuke, I think you must have dirtied every piece of dishware I own!" There was an embarrassed laugh from the other room.
"Yeah, that...oh look! You've got messages on your machine!"
*beep* "Hi, Ken-kun!" Daisuke pressed the erase button.
"Sorry, that was my message."
*beep* "Hello, Ichijouji-san, this is Dr. Kinomoto. I am calling to complain-"
"Delete it, Dai!"
"Right!"
*beep* "Ken-san, listen, this is Leah. I'm calling to tell you that Wednesday's meeting is cancelled. And actually, it means you have nothing to do tomorrow. You should take a day off, relax, enjoy yourself...I'll leave the rest to the imagination."
"I do not know why I hired that woman," Ken muttered from the kitchen.
"So, we're both free until Thursday," Daisuke murmured. He suddenly stiffened in his seat. "Um, Ken, I've got a favor to ask you. Can we go to my place for dinner tomorrow night?" Ken poked his head from the kitchen.
"Why?" Daisuke smiled nervously.
"Um...my parents are coming to town tomorrow, and I invited them over to dinner, and due to recent events, I'd like to introduce you to them."
"We've already met," Ken shouted from his working.
"I meant as my boyfriend," Daisuke added. There was the noise of shattering ceramic, and Ken stepped into the entrance to the living room.
"They don't know?" he asked incredulously. Daisuke shrugged.
"I don't really talk to them much, and this is a new development in my life. And I don't want them to hear anything through the media. I barely had time to tell them I'd quit soccer before the newspapers got ahold of it. So, please?" Ken sighed.
"Fine. But you owe me."
* * *
~Private Chat~
-Hopeful_Angel has entered-
-Holylight25 has entered-
Holylight25: Hey, cutie.
Hopeful_Angel: Um, hi, Hika-chan?
Holylight25: Sorry, I'm in a good mood. Miyako and I
Hopeful_Angel: Enough! I've heard quite enough, thank you.
Holylight25: How'd you do that?
Hopeful_Angel: Talk to Koushiro. Anyway, I found out what Iori's screen name is supposed to mean.
Holylight25: And?
Hopeful_Angel: Iori Takaishi.
Holylight25: That is so absolutely
Hopeful_Angel: Don't say it.
Holylight25: K
Hopeful_Angel: No.
Holylight25: Fine. So, what are you going to do about it?
Hopeful_Angel: Do?
Holylight25: Takeru, the name he uses online, shown to the ENTIRE WORLD, is what he'd like his married name to be. Since the family name is yours, I'd think he's trying to hint at something.
Hopeful_Angel: Eep.
Holylight25: So, will Mimi help plan the wedding?
Hopeful_Angel: GOD, no! And anyway, marriage? I, I'm not really ready...
Holylight25: Takeru, do you love Iori?
Hopeful_Angel: Hai...
Holylight25: Can you imagine spending the rest of your life with anybody else?
Hopeful_Angel: Do you count?
Holylight25: No.
Hopeful_Angel: Then...no.
Holylight25: So...
Hopeful_Angel: But I'm 26! He's still studying to be a lawyer. Marriage could ruin everything.
Holylight25: Aren't you supposed to believe these things will turn out for the best?
Hopeful_Angel: Yes...
Holylight25: So, come on, Takeru. I'm not saying you need to get married right away. I just think that you might be happier agreeing to get married. Think about it, ne?
Hopeful_Angel: Fine...
* * *
"Where in the world have you been hiding? Really, you are perfect!" Daisuke smiled, nestling his head into Ken's chest.
"So, how many Broadway musicals do you have the music from, Ken-chan?" Ken draped his left arm around Daisuke's shoulders.
"Oh, not that many. Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, Jekyll and Hyde, oh, I don't know, a few more." They sat like that, listening to the overwhelming music of Andrew Lloyd Weber's work, until the final strains died away. Ken glanced down at Daisuke, and saw the redhead had fallen asleep. "Dai-chan, wake up," he whispered. Daisuke's eyes shot open, and he sat up.
"I wasn't asleep," he protested. "I-" He broke off, yawning deeply. "Fine, you win. It's a good thing we wear the same size clothes, or I'd have to sleep naked." Ken's face went from his normal pale shade to a red to rival his lover's hair in only five seconds.
"Dai-I-I..." Daisuke smiled, and stood up.
"I'll wash up, and find something to sleep in, and I'll wait for you, all right?" Ken nodded vaguely, watching Daisuke walk towards the bathroom. He hugged his knees to his chest. So, he was going to meet the Motimoyas, this time as their son's boyfriend. It made him slightly nervous, even though he knew they couldn't actually do anything to stop them from dating. Daisuke had always placed great importance in his family's support; no matter how much he'd complained about them, he loved them deeply, and Ken was unsure he'd be able to deal with his parents' rejection. Well, that was tomorrow, and this was today. He stood up and followed Daisuke's path to his bedroom.
* * *
"Mommy, why are you out here?" The little boy tugged at his mother's house dress as she stared at the dark sky.
"Tokoru, have you ever felt the calm before a storm?" The little child shook his head. "Before a storm begins, the air becomes charged with energy, yet it rests lazily on the earth. The whole planet holds its breath, waiting for the eruption of power that marks the beginning of a terrible storm."
"What does that have to do with-"
"Tokoru, do you feel it? There's tension in the air. Your Ojichan will be the target of this storm, but for now...he enjoys the calm. That is all we can ever do; enjoy the good times." Her son nodded, not really understanding, but humoring his mother. She was right a lot, so he learned to pretend to understand her.
* * *
Ken stretched out on the bed, smiling at Daisuke.
"Come on, Dai-chan. You can come to bed." Daisuke turned to him, taking a final look at himself in the mirror.
"Your clothes look good on me, Ken-chan."
"Okay..." Daisuke slipped under the covers, and hugged Ken. "Daisuke, would you mind if I called you Suke-chan? You know, a pet name for you." Ken suddenly couldn't breathe, as Daisuke hugged him tighter.
"Ken-chan, that's so sweet!" The pressure relieved, and Daisuke drew away a little. "Now I need one for you. Hm...isn't your real name Kenji?"
"No, you are not calling me Kenji!"
"Fine; I'll call you my Kenji-koi." Daisuke leaned over Ken, and left one arm draped over the other man's chest. "G'night, Kenji-koi."
"Good noght, Suke-chan."
* * *
Well, that's the first part. About the nicknames, I don't really like using obvious ones, so I went for ones which are at least a little bit creative. I plan at least two more chapters, and it's not going to be all fluffy from here on. There's going to be angst and other whatnot, so enjoy this moment of happiness here. Ja ne!
* * *
OR: No, Nothing *Happens*, You Hentais!
* * *
Part 1: The Calm Before the Storm
* * *
This is the next story in what I'm currently calling simply the "Masquerade" saga. As I've emphatically stated above, this story is not about what most likely came to all of your minds (not that I blame you, those images are very tempting). This one deals with real issues (sort of), but has plenty of Kensuke goodness (Mmmmm...Kensukey [Sorry, I'm watching the Simpsons right now]). So, enjoy!
* * *
"Mmm...you're looking nice this morning," Ken murmured, kissing Daisuke's neck. "It's a wonder you're still a virgin." Daisuke laughed, and pushed Ken away.
"Because I've got something called self-control? By the way, don't you have a meeting today?" Ken moaned, and walked towards the door.
"I don't want to go..." He sighed. "I had fun; hopefully we can find time for something like this again soon." Daisuke grinned.
"Yeah, well, as an artist, I generally have no commitments, except for Tuesdays, where I have dinner with Jun's family. It's all up to you, so call me." Ken smiled, gave Daisuke another kiss, and hurried out to the car. When he arrived at work, and went to grab a few papers, Leah stopped him.
"Another night at Daisuke's?" she asked smugly. Ken nodded, and she continued typing. "I cannot believe the two of you spend all night just cuddling. Frankly I'd think that the two of you would-"
"*Thank* you, Leah. He wants to go slow, and I love him, so I'm not going to pressure him. Besides, any time I spend with him is enough, no matter what we're doing." He walked back from his office, but nearly lost it when Leah voiced her next question.
"So you have trouble...performing?"
"No! I-Why have I not fired you yet?"
"Do you know how hard it is to find a good secretary?" she retorted smugly.
"Gods, I can't deal with this now."
"Tell Daisuke I send my love!"
* * *
"You know, sometimes I can't believe he's actually my koi. I mean, he's just about the kindest, smartest, most beautiful person I know, and he's dating me!" Daisuke handed the pot of tea to Kanna. The elderly woman took it, and smiled back at him.
"And you are just about the most energetic, talented, and courageous young man I've ever met. You abandoned a sure-fire soccer career for the topsy-turvy art world, and did it with enough enthusiasm that I can't tell you that you made a bad decision. By the way, have you actually sold anything yet?" Daisuke shook his head, and took a sip of his tea.
"No, but...five years of playing soccer has left me enough money to live comfortably for quite a while, so..." He shrugged. "And is it possible that Jinushi-san could help me move one of my canvases? 'Birth of Evil' is not helping anyone, so I was going to get rid of it. Frankly, it makes Ken-chan nervous." Kanna placed her teacup down, and stood up.
"Even better, I'll help you right now with it." Daisuke stood up and led her out the door.
"All right. It's big rather than actually heavy, but it's awkward to carry, so we should be careful." She nodded, and they reached his apartment. After unlocking it, Daisuke headed back to find it among the mess of several canvases, dozens of paint tubes, paintbrushes, scraps of paper, and various other items that may or may not have had anything to do with art. Kanna picked up a discarded sketch, and whistled.
"My, that's risqué." Daisuke entered, carrying the rather large piece of paper he had framed earlier. "And you two have only been dating for two weeks. I mean, talk about-"
"That's quite enough," Daisuke snapped. "I was having a bad day, so I thought to sketch Ken-chan, and, well, things got out of hand...Now help me carry this." She grabbed one end of the frame, and the walked it out the door. "Let's get it outside to the dumpster." The traveled in silence, and were soon outside. They were halfway to the alleyway next to the apartment building when someone tapped Daisuke on the shoulder.
"Excuse me, I couldn't help noticing that exquisite painting, and I was wondering if it was for sale." The woman, a brunette with hair tied in a tight bun, looked hopefully at Daisuke. "You see, my husband is a collector of dark pieces, and this would make a perfect addition."
"Um, actually, I was just throwing this out," Daisuke explained. "So you can take it if you want."
"My gods! This is what you throw *out*?!" She pulled out her wallet. "I'll give you $500 for it." Daisuke stammered, and Kanna jumped in.
"That would be fine. Make it out to Motimoya Daisuke." The woman scribbled, but then looked up in surprise.
"The soccer player?" Daisuke managed to nod. "You gave up a lucrative soccer career for painting?" She glanced at the picture she had just bought. "Why in the world did you ever pursue soccer when you're such a good artist?" Daisuke was still in a state of shock, and could only concentrate on his reddened cheeks.
"It's lovely to meet you, Miss, but this is his first sale, so please excuse him. I hope your husband enjoys the painting!" The woman took the frame, and wandered off down the street. Kanna turned to Daisuke, and handed him the check. "You made your first sale, Dai-kun!"
* * *
"Takeru, I'd love to stay here with you, but I have classes today," Iori protested. Takeru, kept his arms wrapped around Iori's shoulders, and pouted at him. "Take-chan, you know I love you, but-"
"No buts, just stay," he pleaded. Iori hugged him and stepped towards the door.
"I'll see you tonight, Take-chan." He kissed his nose and turned for the door, but found his arm restrained. "Take-chan..."
"I'll let you go after you tell me what 'IoriT' means."
"My screen name?" A nod. "It means Iori Takaishi. Ja!" In a moment, Iori was out the door, and Takeru smiled. Then, he walked over to the phone and dialed a familiar number. The phone rang three times, and then it was answered.
"Listen, we don't want anything, and I swear to god, if you're offering credit card upgrades, I will hunt you down and kill you."
"My, aren't we cranky in the morning! Hi, 'Niichan!"
"Gods, anyone up and cheerful this early in the morning should be shot," Yamato muttered. "I don't even have to be up for another three hours."
"Tired, big brother?"
"Our anniversary was yesterday." Takeru smiled.
"I'm sorry; I should have realized you'd be tired."
"Grrrr..." Takeru could only giggle. "You know, the way Daisuke and Ken are acting reminds me of when Taichi and I first got together."
"Except he lost his virginity to you on the second date," Takeru replied.
"I'd kill you if we weren't brothers."
"It's nice to see how dedicated you are to family. So, how about dinner on Friday night? Is everything set?"
"Yeah...Tai-chan's getting work off, and I cancelled all my appointments."
"You know, you're not the type of person I'd expect to end up as a psychologist. I mean, you had the most severe psychological scars of all of us."
"I'm hanging up now."
"Ja, Yama-kun!"
* * *
Ken slammed his door behind him, and walked over to his answering machine. Pressing the play button, he leaned on his kitchen counter to listen to the messages.
*beep*
"Hi, this is Dr. Kinomoto. I am calling regarding my stocks-" Ken pressed the erase button.
"Hi, Ken, this is Hikari. I was calling to remind you that everyone's having dinner at my brother's on Friday. See you then, and remember that you can bring a date."
"Yeah, right. His date's going to be there."
"Miya! I-" Her words were replaced by-
"Ew!" Another message erased.
"Hi, Ken-chan! I was calling 'cause I thought you should be the first to know. I was taking 'Birth of Evil' out to the trash 'cause it made you nervous and everything, and this woman came up and said her husband collected art like that, and she gave me $500 for the painting! I am officially a professional artist! Whoo-hoo! Sorry, I'm just excited." Ken pressed the 'save' button.
"Hi, Ken, I was thinking, if you're not too busy tonight, if we can go out to dinner around 8? Please call back." The messages were over, so Ken grabbed the phone and dialed. He got the answering machine.
"Hi, this is Motimoya Daisuke. I'm not in right now, so leave a message. If you're a rabid fangirl, I'd really rather you didn't." *Beep*
"Hi, Dai-chan. It's Ken. I just got your message, and I'd love to go out, but...I'm really, really tired. I would like to see you, though. So maybe you could come over? Please call soon, and I could hold off dinner until you get here. Ja, Dai-chan."
* * *
"You know, of course, this whole perfect relationship thing can't last," Jun said, handing a plate of sushi to her brother. "Hiro and I lasted a month before any problems came up, but for you...I'd say another week at best." Daisuke glared at her.
"Can't I have a simple meal with my sister without getting prophecies of doom?" Jun smiled at him.
"I'm not making 'prophecies of doom', Dai-kun. I'm just warning you that things can't be perfect forever. There'll be problems, and I want you to know that if you work at it, you can overcome these problems. You're a Motimoya, so I don't want you to give up just because you'll have problems. There'll be fights, difficulties, and you might have problems just because the two of you are guys. Just promise me that you won't give up until it's completely hopeless." Daisuke nodded, but then flashed her a grin.
"If there's one thing I learned from my friend Takeru, it's that there's always hope." Jun's eyes sparkled.
"That's the spirit, Dai-kun."
"Now excuse me, I have to check my messages at home. I invited Ken-chan to dinner."
* * *
"Hi, Dai-chan. It's Ken. I just got your message, and I'd love to go out, but...I'm really, really tired. I would like to see you, though. So maybe you could come over? Please call soon, and I could hold off dinner until you get here. Ja, Dai-chan." Daisuke turned off the answering machine and picked up the phone. He glanced at the clock. 6:30. He dialed Ken's home number, and waited while it rang.
"Answering machine!"
"Hi, this is the residence of Ichijouji Ken. Dr. Kinimoto, if this is you, you talk to my secretary. If you're selling something, hang up now. Otherwise, leave a message." Daisuke grinned.
"Hi, Ken-chan; you know, I like sports, but phone tag is not my favorite game, And incidentally, you sound a little like the Kaiser when you threaten telemarketers. Don't worry; it's a good thing. Anyway..." he trailed off. "Oh, hell, I'll be over around 7, and if you're not back yet, I'll hang outside and see if I can strike up a conversation with your neighbors. So, I'll see you then, and if you're not going to be home, I'm going to kick your ass when I next see you. Ja, Ken-chan!" Daisuke hung up the phone, and grabbed his jacket on his way out the door. He locked the door behind him, and turned to face Kanna.
"Mr. Motimoya, where do you think you're going?" He grinned and walked past her.
"Dinner. With the most beautiful man alive." She gasped, and raised a hand to her mouth.
"My goodness, and I thought you were dating Ichijouji-san!" Daisuke growled, and pushed her aside.
"Yeah, well, don't expect me back until tomorrow, or maybe even Thursday," he replied.
"You know, if I were your mother, I'd say something about being safe or whatever, but since I'm only your landlord...Make sure you live until the next rent check. I wouldn't want to lose my most loyal tenant."
"Your dedication to me is heart-warming, Kanna-san."
"Have a nice time!"
* * *
Ken, carrying a bag of groceries, tripped over a recumbent figure sitting in his hallway.
"What the-?" He glanced down at the body, and smiled. "Well, Dai-chan, I'm glad you came over, but...it might have been better to wait until I got home." Daisuke mumbled, straightening up from his position on the floor.
"Should've been home, Ken-ch'n," he muttered, standing up, using the wall as support. "You also should've warned me 'bout the guard down there; took half-n-hour to convince him." He rubbed his eyes, which then moved from a drowsy gaze to the shining warmth Ken was used to. "And now I'm hungry, so you'd better be ready to eat." Ken fumbled with his bag and unlocked his apartment door.
"Yeah, I'm hungry too. Shall I make us something?" Daisuke shook his head.
"No, I will." At Ken's shocked look, he smiled. "I've been living alone for five years, Ken-chan. I've picked up some basics, and actually, from one of the best. You know, I've never actually been in your apartment. Why is that?" Ken pushed the door in and entered the hallway.
"Because I've been renovating. I meant to ask you over when it was done, but things got a little hectic..." He trailed off, seeing the blank look on the redhead's face. "Um, Dai-chan?" Daisuke's blank look melted, replaced with one of awe.
"It's amazing! Almost like a house." The entry hall opened into the living room, which contained a modest entertainment unit, dominated by a CD player and sound system that looked like something out of the 23rd century. Daisuke hurried forward, and once in the living area, caught sight of the immaculate kitchen, and the hallway leading to the bedrooms. "How many bedrooms are in this place?" he demanded. Ken blushed modestly before answering.
"Three. You have to remember that Miyako and I lived here for three years. We'd planned for a family, and agreed we'd raise it here. Besides, we always wanted to be ready for company. I'm running a successful stock-broking company, Dai-chan, so I thought why not indulge myself a little?" Daisuke grabbed the bag from Ken, and kissed him on the cheek.
"Well, I'll make something for us, you wait here. You have hot sauce, right?" Ken watched the retreating figure, and then dove for his phone. He then punched in one of the many numbers he'd memorized in his time.
* * *
"The phone's ringing, Tai."
"So?" Taichi stayed as he was, huddled up against Yamato on the couch. "They can leave a message."
"*Beep* Hi, this is the Yagami/Ishida household, and we're out right now-
"-Or too exhausted to bother getting out of bed."
"Ishida, you are so dead! Anyway, leave your name, number, and a short message, and we'll get back to you. *beep*" The voice on the phone sounded absolutely panicked.
"Listen, I know you're both home, so one of you pick up." Taichi reached over and plucked the receiver from the cradle.
"Ken? Why are you-?"
"Daisuke's cooking dinner! I need to know who he learned from, and why the hell he needs the hot sauce!" Yamato snatched the phone from his lover and responded.
"He learned from me, Ken-kun. And I *like* hot sauce."
"Not from what I heard. Didn't you nearly kill yourself with some dish made from leftovers?"
"Guys, this is not funny! What am I going to do?" Taichi took the oppurtunity to steal back the phone.
"Well, for later reference, always make sure you're out of hot sauce when he wants to cook. But for now...I'd say hope you have a hell of a lot of milk. If not, ice will do fine. Water won't help anything. Anyway, I want to get back to my Yama-chan, so ja!" Taichi hung up the phone, and turned to Yamato. "He'll be fine, right?"
"Probably."
* * *
"Wow, that was pretty good," Ken complimented, finishing off the last mouthful of rice. "I thought you'd go overboard on hot sauce or something like that." Daisuke grinned, and leaned back in his chair.
"Go overboard? When have you ever known me to do such a thing?"
"I won't dignify that with a response." Daisuke threw his napkin at Ken, then grinned mischievously.
"Just for that, you can wash the dishes. I will be in your living room, watching television." Ken carefully stacked the plates and dishes, and walked into the kitchen-
"My *god*, Daisuke, I think you must have dirtied every piece of dishware I own!" There was an embarrassed laugh from the other room.
"Yeah, that...oh look! You've got messages on your machine!"
*beep* "Hi, Ken-kun!" Daisuke pressed the erase button.
"Sorry, that was my message."
*beep* "Hello, Ichijouji-san, this is Dr. Kinomoto. I am calling to complain-"
"Delete it, Dai!"
"Right!"
*beep* "Ken-san, listen, this is Leah. I'm calling to tell you that Wednesday's meeting is cancelled. And actually, it means you have nothing to do tomorrow. You should take a day off, relax, enjoy yourself...I'll leave the rest to the imagination."
"I do not know why I hired that woman," Ken muttered from the kitchen.
"So, we're both free until Thursday," Daisuke murmured. He suddenly stiffened in his seat. "Um, Ken, I've got a favor to ask you. Can we go to my place for dinner tomorrow night?" Ken poked his head from the kitchen.
"Why?" Daisuke smiled nervously.
"Um...my parents are coming to town tomorrow, and I invited them over to dinner, and due to recent events, I'd like to introduce you to them."
"We've already met," Ken shouted from his working.
"I meant as my boyfriend," Daisuke added. There was the noise of shattering ceramic, and Ken stepped into the entrance to the living room.
"They don't know?" he asked incredulously. Daisuke shrugged.
"I don't really talk to them much, and this is a new development in my life. And I don't want them to hear anything through the media. I barely had time to tell them I'd quit soccer before the newspapers got ahold of it. So, please?" Ken sighed.
"Fine. But you owe me."
* * *
~Private Chat~
-Hopeful_Angel has entered-
-Holylight25 has entered-
Holylight25: Hey, cutie.
Hopeful_Angel: Um, hi, Hika-chan?
Holylight25: Sorry, I'm in a good mood. Miyako and I
Hopeful_Angel: Enough! I've heard quite enough, thank you.
Holylight25: How'd you do that?
Hopeful_Angel: Talk to Koushiro. Anyway, I found out what Iori's screen name is supposed to mean.
Holylight25: And?
Hopeful_Angel: Iori Takaishi.
Holylight25: That is so absolutely
Hopeful_Angel: Don't say it.
Holylight25: K
Hopeful_Angel: No.
Holylight25: Fine. So, what are you going to do about it?
Hopeful_Angel: Do?
Holylight25: Takeru, the name he uses online, shown to the ENTIRE WORLD, is what he'd like his married name to be. Since the family name is yours, I'd think he's trying to hint at something.
Hopeful_Angel: Eep.
Holylight25: So, will Mimi help plan the wedding?
Hopeful_Angel: GOD, no! And anyway, marriage? I, I'm not really ready...
Holylight25: Takeru, do you love Iori?
Hopeful_Angel: Hai...
Holylight25: Can you imagine spending the rest of your life with anybody else?
Hopeful_Angel: Do you count?
Holylight25: No.
Hopeful_Angel: Then...no.
Holylight25: So...
Hopeful_Angel: But I'm 26! He's still studying to be a lawyer. Marriage could ruin everything.
Holylight25: Aren't you supposed to believe these things will turn out for the best?
Hopeful_Angel: Yes...
Holylight25: So, come on, Takeru. I'm not saying you need to get married right away. I just think that you might be happier agreeing to get married. Think about it, ne?
Hopeful_Angel: Fine...
* * *
"Where in the world have you been hiding? Really, you are perfect!" Daisuke smiled, nestling his head into Ken's chest.
"So, how many Broadway musicals do you have the music from, Ken-chan?" Ken draped his left arm around Daisuke's shoulders.
"Oh, not that many. Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, Jekyll and Hyde, oh, I don't know, a few more." They sat like that, listening to the overwhelming music of Andrew Lloyd Weber's work, until the final strains died away. Ken glanced down at Daisuke, and saw the redhead had fallen asleep. "Dai-chan, wake up," he whispered. Daisuke's eyes shot open, and he sat up.
"I wasn't asleep," he protested. "I-" He broke off, yawning deeply. "Fine, you win. It's a good thing we wear the same size clothes, or I'd have to sleep naked." Ken's face went from his normal pale shade to a red to rival his lover's hair in only five seconds.
"Dai-I-I..." Daisuke smiled, and stood up.
"I'll wash up, and find something to sleep in, and I'll wait for you, all right?" Ken nodded vaguely, watching Daisuke walk towards the bathroom. He hugged his knees to his chest. So, he was going to meet the Motimoyas, this time as their son's boyfriend. It made him slightly nervous, even though he knew they couldn't actually do anything to stop them from dating. Daisuke had always placed great importance in his family's support; no matter how much he'd complained about them, he loved them deeply, and Ken was unsure he'd be able to deal with his parents' rejection. Well, that was tomorrow, and this was today. He stood up and followed Daisuke's path to his bedroom.
* * *
"Mommy, why are you out here?" The little boy tugged at his mother's house dress as she stared at the dark sky.
"Tokoru, have you ever felt the calm before a storm?" The little child shook his head. "Before a storm begins, the air becomes charged with energy, yet it rests lazily on the earth. The whole planet holds its breath, waiting for the eruption of power that marks the beginning of a terrible storm."
"What does that have to do with-"
"Tokoru, do you feel it? There's tension in the air. Your Ojichan will be the target of this storm, but for now...he enjoys the calm. That is all we can ever do; enjoy the good times." Her son nodded, not really understanding, but humoring his mother. She was right a lot, so he learned to pretend to understand her.
* * *
Ken stretched out on the bed, smiling at Daisuke.
"Come on, Dai-chan. You can come to bed." Daisuke turned to him, taking a final look at himself in the mirror.
"Your clothes look good on me, Ken-chan."
"Okay..." Daisuke slipped under the covers, and hugged Ken. "Daisuke, would you mind if I called you Suke-chan? You know, a pet name for you." Ken suddenly couldn't breathe, as Daisuke hugged him tighter.
"Ken-chan, that's so sweet!" The pressure relieved, and Daisuke drew away a little. "Now I need one for you. Hm...isn't your real name Kenji?"
"No, you are not calling me Kenji!"
"Fine; I'll call you my Kenji-koi." Daisuke leaned over Ken, and left one arm draped over the other man's chest. "G'night, Kenji-koi."
"Good noght, Suke-chan."
* * *
Well, that's the first part. About the nicknames, I don't really like using obvious ones, so I went for ones which are at least a little bit creative. I plan at least two more chapters, and it's not going to be all fluffy from here on. There's going to be angst and other whatnot, so enjoy this moment of happiness here. Ja ne!
