Disclaimers/ warnings: First chapter. Yay for continuity!
A/N: My friend SunLyght is helping me write this author's note. All hail! ^-^ I got Internet in my room so I downloaded this cute wallpaper from animeart.com! The Weiss boys are all dressed in these white suits - I think it's supposed to be a Christmas picture. I know that nobody really cared about that little tidbit of information. Still, I'm really excited about it. Okay! This is the second-to-last chapter, and it's the confrontation part. I really hope everyone's enjoyed this story. It's slowly coming to an end. . I'm gonna miss all this. Actually, I have another story in my mind right now, but you'll have to wait 'till next chapter to get the scoop on that one.
Who's ready for a really happy and kawaii chapter? I am! Yay for AyaxKen!
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When first light shattered sweetly across Tokyo the next day, the streets were still deserted and the storefronts empty. The birds and insects were alone in their orchestra and found no audience on human ears, while the breeze amused itself by dancing playfully across the surface of a nearby lake. Clouds whisked overhead with the same hurried attitude of the one lone figure stalking down the sidewalk.
He was dressed all in black, short blonde locks falling precisely over his forehead and partially veiling his golden eyes. His handsome face was twisted grimly into a determined smile, and he clutched a white envelope tightly in his left hand.
Finally he paused in front of a flower shop, one Koneko no Sumu Ie, and his smile widened. Leaning down, he slipped the envelope under the door. Then He turned and walked away, leaving no sign of his presence.
The sunlight slowly crept across the shop floor, finally coming to rest on a stark white envelope bearing the inscription: To Tsukiyono Omi.
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"Thank you very much! Please come again!" Omi sang out as he rang up yet another customer. The various fan legions twittered and giggled at his standard polite send-off.
"Oh he's so kawaii!" Fangirl #57 giggled.
"It just makes me want to squeeze him!" declared Fangirl # 4. They all nodded in agreement. "Our lovable little Omi-chan!" A chorus of giggles and happy squeaks erupted from the crowd. Yohji scowled.
"-My- Omi-chan," he grumbled. Ken smiled at him, and then gave his arm a light punch.
"You're gonna have to fight 'em for him!" he joked, lugging a large potted plant across the store. Yohji rolled his eyes.
"I think I could handle it." Ken briefly imagined Yohji stringing the fangirls up by their ankles to protect his boyfriend. The thought made him laugh, and briefly lifted the dark cloud of worry floating about his head.
When he'd been lying awake the night before, trying to hold off dreams of a certain someone, he'd finally decided that the only thing to do - the only real option - was to go for broke and tell Aya honestly how he felt. And after about three torturous hours, he had a plan. So, gathering his courage, he waited until Yohji and Omi left the room to unpack the new supplies and then worked his way over to where Aya stood, watering can in hand. Ken cleared his throat lightly and glanced away when Aya looked up.
"Uh, hey Aya," Ken began, slapping himself mentally. //Brilliant start, baka,// his mind chastised. Pressing on, he added, "So, um, I was just thinking that - maybe if you don't have any plans this evening - we could just, you know, hang out together or something?" He shifted uncomfortably.
Aya considered momentarily. //How convenient,// he mused. //That would be the perfect opportunity to tell him how much I - I-// he blushed lightly as he nodded. Fortunately, Ken was too relieved to notice.
"Great!" Ken exclaimed, practically trembling with nerves. "I'll see ya around 8?" Aya nodded again, containing his smile just in time. //He actually thought I'd say no? Doesn't he know how much I treasure the time we spend together?// He then proceeded, somewhat against his will, to daydream about the brunette.
His thoughts were interrupted by a startled gasp. He whirled to see Omi holding a white piece of paper and shaking lightly. The fangirls went silent as the boy's teammates quickly made their way to his side. Yohji dropped an arm casually around Omi's waist and pulled him against his side. "What's the matter, Omittchi?" he asked gently.
Omi's voice shook as he answered, "I - I found this letter on the floor - it was addressed to me-"
"What's it say?" Ken inquired, peering over the boy's shoulder. Aya took the note from the trembling blonde and raised a delicate eyebrow.
"Come to the Hapa Sushi Bar - ALONE - at 7:30 this evening OR ELSE," he intoned dryly. Omi shuddered and Yohji's arms tightened around him. Ken blinked, then smiled reassuringly at Omi while unconsciously gripping Aya's forearm.
"Er, I'm sure it's nothing to worry about, Omi," Ken said, lacing his tone with forced cheer. Then he returned to his station to finish the arrangements, seemingly reluctant to let go of Aya's arm. Aya's breath caught, but he pretended he hadn't noticed and went back to watering. A moment later, after the fuss had died down and the noise level was steadily rising again, Ken let out a startled cry. Aya was at his side immediately, struggling to keep a calm expression. "Ken?" he asked. The brunette turned to him, wide-eyed.
"A - Aya. . . this arrangement - it's for Yohji," he stammered. Aya didn't see anything unusual in this. "Read the card," Ken continued shakily, handing it to the redhead as he spoke. Aya perused it, eyebrows reaching his hairline. //Come along and it'll be your life,// the card read cruelly. Aya looked back to Ken, who was obviously shocked.
"Aya - that's not a death threat, is it?" he gulped nervously. Aya tried to give him a reassuring look, settling for 'Don't worry - they're just after Kudou.' //If it were you,// Aya continued mentally, //I'd find this person and slice him up so small he'd disappear.// As he thought this, Yohji snatched the card out of his hand and laughed shortly.
"Like hell I'm letting him go alone," he bit out. Aya nodded, for once glad that Yohji tended to defy orders. Despite his cold exterior, he really did care for his teammates, deep down inside (or maybe not so deep when it came to Ken), and he didn't want any harm to come to the lovable hacker either. Yohji might be a bumbling idiot, but Aya knew he was also a well-trained assassin and very loyal to those he cared about. Omi was certainly the top of -that- list. Besides, Aya wasn't worried about Yohji - the man knew how to take care of himself.
Omi grasped Yohji's hand in his, ignoring the strange looks the fangirls were giving him. "You'll come with me, Yohji-ko - er, Yohji-kun?" Yohji smiled down at him.
"You bet, Omittchi - wouldn't want a cute little thing like you facing your stalker alone." He winked at Omi's sputter and turned back to the cash register, mentally preparing himself for the evening's adventure.
//If it's a fight they want,// Yohji thought, gritting his teeth, //it's a fight they're gonna get.//
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Brad Crawford sat on the couch, a newspaper propped open in his lap and a cooling cup of coffee on the table beside him. Unconsciously, he fiddled with the engagement ring on his hand, running his fingers over the precious stone as he read the 'Lifestyles' section. He was still having trouble believing that he was getting married - married! Him! Brad Crawford! It was hard to imagine really. He sighed a little and turned the page.
"Bradley!" came a cheerful nasal voice. Brad smiled very slightly. His German boyfriend waltzed into the living room wearing nothing but a bath towel. Brad blushed lightly. Schuldich grinned at him. "I'm going to take a shower Bradley - care to join me?"
Brad's blush deepened, and he ducked further into his newspaper. Schuldich laughed heartily and kissed his cheek, striding out of the room.
Suddenly, Brad put the Marta Stewart article down as a vision came into his head. A rubber ducky? What in the world would -that- be doing at the top of the stairs? Suddenly, he heard a startled yelp. Then a -thump- . Thumpthumpthumpthumpthump. Brad winced. Schuldich, he guessed, had stepped on the duck and fallen down the stairs. He heard another yell, and groaned. Who had put oil all over the hallway? He heard a crash as Schuldich connected with the far wall. "BRAAAAAAADLEEEEEEEY!" came an enraged shriek from the direction Schuldich had gone. Brad dropped his head into his hands. Nagi and Farfello, who'd been hiding behind a potted plant, snickered.
"Ne, do you have a headache, Crawford?" Nagi asked innocently. Farfello chuckled evilly.
"He's engaged to a headache, Naggles," he crowed. Brad glared at him.
"You set that up, didn't you?" he accused. Farfello just laughed and tugged Nagi out of the room. Schuldich came to stand in the doorway - a rubber duck in his hand, body slick with olive oil, small pieces of plaster in his hair. Schuldich folded his arms across his chest.
"Bradley," he began, a whine creeping into his tone. Brad sighed and fell to his knees on the carpet.
"Why me? Why God why?!" he cried. Above him, Farfello let out a scream. Schuldich began to complain and moan. Nagi's fingers tapped across the keyboard. Brad began hitting his head against the floor. It was another normal day in the Schwartz household.
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Aya sighed softly as he scrubbed the countertops with a pink-and- yellow, sudsy sponge. It was closing time - Omi was currently flipping out about his threatening note and Yohji was grumbling as he created various arrangements for the next day. The only person who was vaguely sane at present, Ken, was out "shopping." Despite his best efforts to the contrary, Aya couldn't keep himself from wondering what Ken needed to buy all of a sudden.
As he was thinking this, the door burst open and Ken strode in, humming quietly to himself and clutching a bag to his chest. Aya let a small smile flit across his face and moved to greet the brunette, glad he no longer had to deal with other two alone. Ken looked up, absolutely beaming in the fading sunlight - when he saw Aya approaching, his smile grew even more and he tightened his hold on the bag. Aya paused a few feet from him, eyebrow raised.
"What did you buy?" he asked, trying to sound uninterested. Ken tapped his nose and giggled - it was endearing though, and didn't give him a headache like the constant fangirls' giggles did.
"Wouldn't you like to know," Ken cooed happily, pushing past him and into the store. Aya stifled the urge to roll his eyes and followed the brunette. Yohji didn't even notice the new arrival, but Omi looked up and immediately began expatiating on his problems.
"Oh, Ken-kun, you're back what am I going to do?! I don't want to go but he said or else and I want to bring Yohji-koi along but oh what if he gets hurt what would I do and why does he want me anyway I'm just a flower boy wait you don't think he knows about Weiss do you oh no maybe he's going to come here and-" Finally tiring of this seemingly infinite tirade, Ken dug through his bag and shoved a stick of pocky into Omi's mouth, effectively shutting him up. Omi's eyes widened, then he smiled and mumbled a garbled thanks. Ken grinned and tossed one to Yohji, who merely grumbled. Turning uncertainly, he hesitated, one more pocky in hand, meant for Aya of course. The redhead gave him a soft look and took it silently, pleased that Ken would think to bring him something. Ken grinned at him before turning back to Yohji ad Omi.
"You guys really ought to get moving," he commented, resting his bag on the counter. "You'll be late to meet Mr. Stalker if you don't leave soon." Omi squeaked and Yohji tensed, then he grabbed Omi's hand and the two left the store, walking slowly down the darkening sidewalk. Ken let the smile die from his face, then sighed and turned to Aya.
"They'll be okay, right Aya?" he asked, worried despite his best efforts. Aya came to stand beside him and laid a hand on his shoulder. Words failed him, as usual, but the action was enough, and Ken smiled up at him. "Right. That's a dumb question - sorry." His eyes lit up, and he regained is monstrous grin. "I have something to do, so - um - just come up when you're ready, okay?" With that, he snatched his bag and shot up the stairs. Aya blinked, then shook his head and went off in search of food. No sense facing Ken on an empty stomach.
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Omi clutched Yohji's hand tightly as he peered from side to side, searching the Hapa Sushi Bar for anyone suspicious-looking. He fidgeted in his seat and gripped Yohji's hand more tightly, glad that at least he wasn't alone. This thought put a small smile on his face.
Yohji was so sweet - coming along despite the flower arrangement he'd been sent. It made Omi all tingly inside to think Yohji cared this much about him. He sighed. No matter who this person was, or what they wanted, he'd be all right as long as Yohji was with him.
The door opened abruptly, and they looked up. A man dressed entirely in black with blonde hair approached their table and scowled down at them, glaring particularly at Yohji. "You," he spat out in greeting, "were not supposed to come."
Yohji's eyes flickered in anger. "What are you going to do about it, may I ask?" he said calmly, tone betraying him. The two glared at each other for a moment longer, then the stranger sighed in frustration and sat down.
"Nothing. But must you make things so difficult?" Omi and Yohji were stunned. This man didn't really intend to harm them? What was going on? Clearing his throat hesitantly, Omi inquired,
"Anou, I don't mean to be rude, but. . . why did you ask us here?" The man glared at him, then shrugged and started in on Yohji's plate of spring rolls. Yohji looked seriously affronted.
"My name," the stranger said, "is Yuki Eiri. I-"
"Yuki Eiri?!" Omi squealed. "You're that famous author!"
The man looked annoyed. "Keep your voice down, would you? The last thing I need is a fan gathering." Omi nodded and gulped, understanding perfectly. Yohji snorted.
"Pretty arrogant, aren't you?" he commented dryly, grabbing his food away from the man's hands. Yuki shot him a look.
"And why shouldn't I be? Top of the bestsellers list for 6 months in a row, thank you very much." Yohji rolled his eyes. The author turned back to Omi. "To continue - there's this annoying kid that follows me around. His name is Shuichi. He demanded I write a story about our. . . relationship. But that takes too much work; I'm used to observing other people. I'm going to use the two of you as my character base, and I had a few questions."
Yohji started, surprised. "Why us? We're just your average sappy, romantic gay couple."
Yuki glared at him. "I noticed you in the park the other day. You fit into my storyline. And don't question genius." Yohji bit back a harsh laugh.
Omi smiled nervously at the two of them. "Okay, Yuki-kun, that's all fine, but I have a question. Why did you send me that scary letter? It wasn't very nice, and I would've answered your questions if you'd just asked."
Yuki snorted. "Threats are more effective. Now start speaking."
Omi pouted, then smiled deviously. If it was an interview he wanted, he would get one, and Omi was leaving -nothing- out.
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Ken sighed as he sat back on his heels, staring at the freshly-wrapped gift beside him. The soft red candles - the only source of light in the room - cast twisting shadows all over the redhead's present. It was something he'd bought for Aya while shopping today - he'd decided that bribery might be a safeguard when admitting one's feelings to the resident redhead. Ken groaned aloud as various images of himself being skewered by Aya's katana floated through his mind. Well, it was too late now. He'd invited Aya upstairs to his room, he'd bought the gift, he'd made up his mind. . .
There came a knock at the door, and Ken jumped. //Oh my gosh that's him!// Ken thought frantically, then smacked his head against the wall. //get a hold of yourself!// he demanded silently. The knock came again, louder this time.
"Ken?" Aya called through the door. "Ken? Are you there?"
"Oh yeah, just a sec-" CRASH! Aya started as a loud noise exploded from behind the door. Panicking, Aya wrenched the barrier open to see that Ken had apparently tripped over his dirty laundry and favorite soccer ball and collided with his standing lamp. The brunette peeked out from under the lampshade and grinned sheepishly.
"Er, hi Aya," he tried, struggling up through his clothing and various electrical cords. Aya chuckled and helped him up.
"Hi yourself," he intoned. Ken beamed up at him, then snatched something from the floor and hid it behind his back. Aya blinked, thenshook it off and held out his palm to the brunette. "I brought you something," he mumbled, fighting a blush. Ken grinned. He took the proffered object and, upon finding it to be candy, enthusiastically wolfed it down.
"Sugar!" he exclaimed. "What'd I do to deserve that, Aya?" Aya shrugged.
"Well, you gave me the pocky earlier, and. . . " Ken smiled at him and nodded. Then his expression became apprehensive, and he swallowed hard.
"Um, sit down," he suggested, motioning toward the bed as his chair was currently overflowing with junk. Aya complied but remained silent. "I have something for you, too." Ken managed, obviously nervous.
"I was out shopping today because - well - y'know, your birthday was a couple months ago. And, I'm really sorry, I forgot all about it, but-" he broke off and shoved a package into Aya's hands. "I hope this'll make it up to you," he murmured.
Aya blinked down at the semi-lumpy package he'd been handed and allowed Ken a small smile. His birthday? Hell, they'd -all- forgotten, his birthday, and this wasn't a rare occurrence. Only one year, in fact, could he remember Weiss throwing him a birthday party, and his reaction had been less than stellar.
//Flashback//
~Aya slowly opened the door to the Koneko, his shoulders slumped. He'd just returned from visiting his sister - alone as always. He fought back a sigh and slipped the perfect, icy mask back on. He preferred it that way, he told himself - solitude his only companion.
As he entered the living room, words left him and his usually frozen countenance fell to the floor and shattered. There stood his three teammates, all in ridiculous polka-dotted hats, one of which Yohji quickly strapped over Aya's hair. A huge, oddly shaped cake with bright pink frosting grinned cheekily at him from the counter, and a small pile of gifts sat beside it, practically glowing with colorful wrapping paper. Over their heads hung a huge banner reading: 'Happy Birthday Aya-kun!' Aya blinked. Then he snorted and, ignoring his comrades, stalked toward the stairs. A firm grip on his elbow halted his progress, and he turned to look into the impassioned brown eyes of the resident soccer player.
"Oi, Aya - Omi and Yohji and I went to a lot of trouble to set all this up. I know you don't really care about our feelings one way or another, but the least you could do is try to -act- appreciative!" Aya grunted. He turned for the stairs again, but hesitated when he saw the hurt and stubbornness radiating from Ken's eyes. He saw the glittery tears threatening to pour down Omi's cheeks. He saw the anger riddled in Yohji's expression. With a sigh, he turned back to the gathering and let Ken pull him into the living room, where he proceeded to experience one of the best birthday parties of his life.~
//End Flashback//
Aya shook the memory away as Ken coughed nervously and shifted his feet. Not without reason, his fellow assassins had taken his actions to mean he resented their efforts and had forever after ignored his birthday when it rolled around. Except now. Why? Why change that all of a sudden?
"Why?" he asked gently, the thought coming almost unbidden to his lips. Ken looked confused.
"I told you. Your birthday-" Aya raised a hand to stop him.
"No. Why. . . did you bother?" he pressed, still trying to keep his voice kind. Ken shifted where he stood.
"I just - wanted to do something for you, that's all," Ken mumbled, wringing his hands wretchedly. Maybe he shouldn't have bought anything after all. Aya had never shown interest in his birthday - this was a bad idea, he knew it. Without warning, he felt a light tug on his wrist as he was pulled down to sit beside Aya on the bed. Ken blushed.
"Thank you," Aya breathed. Ken's heart fluttered. Aya gently pried the wrapping paper off his belated birthday gift. And stared. In his hands, collared by a bright red bow, was a yellow, soft creature with black stripes and big plush eyes. Aya started. Ken looked away. "This. . . this is. . . " Aya stammered, looking over the Pokemon plushie in his hands.
Ken's blush darkened. "Yeah - Pikachu. I know it's pretty dumb, but, well. . . I remembered you liked it, and I couldn't think of anything else. . . "
Ken was interrupted by a quiet finger across his lips. He looked up into Aya's gaze and was surprised to see what could only be described as sparkles and shoujo bubbles in the redhead's violet eyes. Aya smiled at him, and Ken felt himself stop breathing.
Aya's thoughts were a jumbled mess as he stared at the Pokemon. He didn't think he'd ever been happier during all the years he'd been in Weiss. Ken's thoughtfulness was amazing. He stopped the flow of self- depreciating words coming from Ken's lips and smiled sincerely at the brunette.
The gift was just so representative of the man he'd fallen in love with. It wasn't eloquent. It wasn't contrived. It wasn't extraordinarily practical. But it was cute, soft, and sweet - it had big eyes and unbreakable loyalty and a cheerful personality and, he was sure, a heart of gold overflowing with love and caring for those around him. Even cold- hearted, bastardly ones like Aya himself.
Aya shook his head as he thought this. No - his heart wasn't cold anymore. Ken's warmth had melted it into a puddle of lovesick goo. And if Ken wanted it, Ken could have it. The thought widened his smile even more - Ken stared at him, his own features washed with relief. It looked like Aya wasn't angry with him after all.
Aya reached out and cupped Ken's cheek in his hand. "Ken," he whispered, eyes shining with what might have been unshed tears. Ken blinked at the unexpected contact. "Thank you very much," he managed, lacing their fingers together. Ken's eyes widened as Aya leaned forward and placed a light kiss on his tanned cheek, whispering 'chu' as he drew back. The brunette's mind went numb. //He - he kissed me! Holy cow, he kissed me!// Aya's eyes shone as he pulled away, looking somewhat anxious. //Answer him!// Ken's mind encouraged. //Do it! Now!//
"Aya. . . " he croaked, clutching at his courage with all his might. "Aya, I - I love. . . you." Aya started. Ken pulled his hand away and squeezed his eyes shut. There. He'd finally said it. He felt a pale hand tangle itself in his deep chocolate hair, and his eyes blinked open. Aya was smiling beautifully at him, and there was no katana in sight.
"Do you. . . mean that?" Aya asked finally, unable to contain his joy. Ken nodded, still worried.
"Aya. . . I. . . I know it's kinda unexpected, but. . . I wouldn't have said it if I didn't mean it," he answered softly. His words echoed in the still air. Without warning, Aya tugged him firmly into his arms and against his chest, burying his face in his friend's brown locks as he did so. Ken looked up, surprised at his reaction.
"Aya?" he breathed, hardly daring to believe what his mind was telling him. The answering expression in the redhead's eyes banished whatever doubts he'd been feeling.
"I l-love you, too, Ken," Aya murmured. Ken's eyes softened. "I love you, too."
Their lips met in the quiet candlelight; as their eyes slipped closed, a small breeze sifted through the light curtains and brushed the candle flames out, playing across their skin. Ken shivered - Aya pulled him closer. Ken's warm eyes looked up into his as they parted and Aya found himself falling all over again. //I'm not quite sure what it is you do to me, Ken,// Aya mused. //But whatever it is, I hope you never stop.//
As Aya leaned down to kiss him again, Ken found his thoughts dwelling on his two best friends. //Thanks Yohji, Omi,// he reflected silently as he lost all conscious thought. //We couldn't have done it without you.// Aya broke apart from his lover once more to gaze into the younger man's deep eyes.
//I should buy Yohji something,// he thought fleetingly. //Even though there's not a thing in the world that could come close to what he's given me. My Ken. Finally.//
//Mine.//
End Day 6
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Whew! Finally! Gosh this was a long chapter. But that means it's pretty much done! All we have left is the epilogue of sorts - y'know, the really really happy ending that wraps it all up. I hope everybody enjoyed this story. I know I did. Please review and tell me what you thought - it means a lot to me. Ja ne! ^-*
A/N: My friend SunLyght is helping me write this author's note. All hail! ^-^ I got Internet in my room so I downloaded this cute wallpaper from animeart.com! The Weiss boys are all dressed in these white suits - I think it's supposed to be a Christmas picture. I know that nobody really cared about that little tidbit of information. Still, I'm really excited about it. Okay! This is the second-to-last chapter, and it's the confrontation part. I really hope everyone's enjoyed this story. It's slowly coming to an end. . I'm gonna miss all this. Actually, I have another story in my mind right now, but you'll have to wait 'till next chapter to get the scoop on that one.
Who's ready for a really happy and kawaii chapter? I am! Yay for AyaxKen!
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When first light shattered sweetly across Tokyo the next day, the streets were still deserted and the storefronts empty. The birds and insects were alone in their orchestra and found no audience on human ears, while the breeze amused itself by dancing playfully across the surface of a nearby lake. Clouds whisked overhead with the same hurried attitude of the one lone figure stalking down the sidewalk.
He was dressed all in black, short blonde locks falling precisely over his forehead and partially veiling his golden eyes. His handsome face was twisted grimly into a determined smile, and he clutched a white envelope tightly in his left hand.
Finally he paused in front of a flower shop, one Koneko no Sumu Ie, and his smile widened. Leaning down, he slipped the envelope under the door. Then He turned and walked away, leaving no sign of his presence.
The sunlight slowly crept across the shop floor, finally coming to rest on a stark white envelope bearing the inscription: To Tsukiyono Omi.
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"Thank you very much! Please come again!" Omi sang out as he rang up yet another customer. The various fan legions twittered and giggled at his standard polite send-off.
"Oh he's so kawaii!" Fangirl #57 giggled.
"It just makes me want to squeeze him!" declared Fangirl # 4. They all nodded in agreement. "Our lovable little Omi-chan!" A chorus of giggles and happy squeaks erupted from the crowd. Yohji scowled.
"-My- Omi-chan," he grumbled. Ken smiled at him, and then gave his arm a light punch.
"You're gonna have to fight 'em for him!" he joked, lugging a large potted plant across the store. Yohji rolled his eyes.
"I think I could handle it." Ken briefly imagined Yohji stringing the fangirls up by their ankles to protect his boyfriend. The thought made him laugh, and briefly lifted the dark cloud of worry floating about his head.
When he'd been lying awake the night before, trying to hold off dreams of a certain someone, he'd finally decided that the only thing to do - the only real option - was to go for broke and tell Aya honestly how he felt. And after about three torturous hours, he had a plan. So, gathering his courage, he waited until Yohji and Omi left the room to unpack the new supplies and then worked his way over to where Aya stood, watering can in hand. Ken cleared his throat lightly and glanced away when Aya looked up.
"Uh, hey Aya," Ken began, slapping himself mentally. //Brilliant start, baka,// his mind chastised. Pressing on, he added, "So, um, I was just thinking that - maybe if you don't have any plans this evening - we could just, you know, hang out together or something?" He shifted uncomfortably.
Aya considered momentarily. //How convenient,// he mused. //That would be the perfect opportunity to tell him how much I - I-// he blushed lightly as he nodded. Fortunately, Ken was too relieved to notice.
"Great!" Ken exclaimed, practically trembling with nerves. "I'll see ya around 8?" Aya nodded again, containing his smile just in time. //He actually thought I'd say no? Doesn't he know how much I treasure the time we spend together?// He then proceeded, somewhat against his will, to daydream about the brunette.
His thoughts were interrupted by a startled gasp. He whirled to see Omi holding a white piece of paper and shaking lightly. The fangirls went silent as the boy's teammates quickly made their way to his side. Yohji dropped an arm casually around Omi's waist and pulled him against his side. "What's the matter, Omittchi?" he asked gently.
Omi's voice shook as he answered, "I - I found this letter on the floor - it was addressed to me-"
"What's it say?" Ken inquired, peering over the boy's shoulder. Aya took the note from the trembling blonde and raised a delicate eyebrow.
"Come to the Hapa Sushi Bar - ALONE - at 7:30 this evening OR ELSE," he intoned dryly. Omi shuddered and Yohji's arms tightened around him. Ken blinked, then smiled reassuringly at Omi while unconsciously gripping Aya's forearm.
"Er, I'm sure it's nothing to worry about, Omi," Ken said, lacing his tone with forced cheer. Then he returned to his station to finish the arrangements, seemingly reluctant to let go of Aya's arm. Aya's breath caught, but he pretended he hadn't noticed and went back to watering. A moment later, after the fuss had died down and the noise level was steadily rising again, Ken let out a startled cry. Aya was at his side immediately, struggling to keep a calm expression. "Ken?" he asked. The brunette turned to him, wide-eyed.
"A - Aya. . . this arrangement - it's for Yohji," he stammered. Aya didn't see anything unusual in this. "Read the card," Ken continued shakily, handing it to the redhead as he spoke. Aya perused it, eyebrows reaching his hairline. //Come along and it'll be your life,// the card read cruelly. Aya looked back to Ken, who was obviously shocked.
"Aya - that's not a death threat, is it?" he gulped nervously. Aya tried to give him a reassuring look, settling for 'Don't worry - they're just after Kudou.' //If it were you,// Aya continued mentally, //I'd find this person and slice him up so small he'd disappear.// As he thought this, Yohji snatched the card out of his hand and laughed shortly.
"Like hell I'm letting him go alone," he bit out. Aya nodded, for once glad that Yohji tended to defy orders. Despite his cold exterior, he really did care for his teammates, deep down inside (or maybe not so deep when it came to Ken), and he didn't want any harm to come to the lovable hacker either. Yohji might be a bumbling idiot, but Aya knew he was also a well-trained assassin and very loyal to those he cared about. Omi was certainly the top of -that- list. Besides, Aya wasn't worried about Yohji - the man knew how to take care of himself.
Omi grasped Yohji's hand in his, ignoring the strange looks the fangirls were giving him. "You'll come with me, Yohji-ko - er, Yohji-kun?" Yohji smiled down at him.
"You bet, Omittchi - wouldn't want a cute little thing like you facing your stalker alone." He winked at Omi's sputter and turned back to the cash register, mentally preparing himself for the evening's adventure.
//If it's a fight they want,// Yohji thought, gritting his teeth, //it's a fight they're gonna get.//
*******************
Brad Crawford sat on the couch, a newspaper propped open in his lap and a cooling cup of coffee on the table beside him. Unconsciously, he fiddled with the engagement ring on his hand, running his fingers over the precious stone as he read the 'Lifestyles' section. He was still having trouble believing that he was getting married - married! Him! Brad Crawford! It was hard to imagine really. He sighed a little and turned the page.
"Bradley!" came a cheerful nasal voice. Brad smiled very slightly. His German boyfriend waltzed into the living room wearing nothing but a bath towel. Brad blushed lightly. Schuldich grinned at him. "I'm going to take a shower Bradley - care to join me?"
Brad's blush deepened, and he ducked further into his newspaper. Schuldich laughed heartily and kissed his cheek, striding out of the room.
Suddenly, Brad put the Marta Stewart article down as a vision came into his head. A rubber ducky? What in the world would -that- be doing at the top of the stairs? Suddenly, he heard a startled yelp. Then a -thump- . Thumpthumpthumpthumpthump. Brad winced. Schuldich, he guessed, had stepped on the duck and fallen down the stairs. He heard another yell, and groaned. Who had put oil all over the hallway? He heard a crash as Schuldich connected with the far wall. "BRAAAAAAADLEEEEEEEY!" came an enraged shriek from the direction Schuldich had gone. Brad dropped his head into his hands. Nagi and Farfello, who'd been hiding behind a potted plant, snickered.
"Ne, do you have a headache, Crawford?" Nagi asked innocently. Farfello chuckled evilly.
"He's engaged to a headache, Naggles," he crowed. Brad glared at him.
"You set that up, didn't you?" he accused. Farfello just laughed and tugged Nagi out of the room. Schuldich came to stand in the doorway - a rubber duck in his hand, body slick with olive oil, small pieces of plaster in his hair. Schuldich folded his arms across his chest.
"Bradley," he began, a whine creeping into his tone. Brad sighed and fell to his knees on the carpet.
"Why me? Why God why?!" he cried. Above him, Farfello let out a scream. Schuldich began to complain and moan. Nagi's fingers tapped across the keyboard. Brad began hitting his head against the floor. It was another normal day in the Schwartz household.
********************
Aya sighed softly as he scrubbed the countertops with a pink-and- yellow, sudsy sponge. It was closing time - Omi was currently flipping out about his threatening note and Yohji was grumbling as he created various arrangements for the next day. The only person who was vaguely sane at present, Ken, was out "shopping." Despite his best efforts to the contrary, Aya couldn't keep himself from wondering what Ken needed to buy all of a sudden.
As he was thinking this, the door burst open and Ken strode in, humming quietly to himself and clutching a bag to his chest. Aya let a small smile flit across his face and moved to greet the brunette, glad he no longer had to deal with other two alone. Ken looked up, absolutely beaming in the fading sunlight - when he saw Aya approaching, his smile grew even more and he tightened his hold on the bag. Aya paused a few feet from him, eyebrow raised.
"What did you buy?" he asked, trying to sound uninterested. Ken tapped his nose and giggled - it was endearing though, and didn't give him a headache like the constant fangirls' giggles did.
"Wouldn't you like to know," Ken cooed happily, pushing past him and into the store. Aya stifled the urge to roll his eyes and followed the brunette. Yohji didn't even notice the new arrival, but Omi looked up and immediately began expatiating on his problems.
"Oh, Ken-kun, you're back what am I going to do?! I don't want to go but he said or else and I want to bring Yohji-koi along but oh what if he gets hurt what would I do and why does he want me anyway I'm just a flower boy wait you don't think he knows about Weiss do you oh no maybe he's going to come here and-" Finally tiring of this seemingly infinite tirade, Ken dug through his bag and shoved a stick of pocky into Omi's mouth, effectively shutting him up. Omi's eyes widened, then he smiled and mumbled a garbled thanks. Ken grinned and tossed one to Yohji, who merely grumbled. Turning uncertainly, he hesitated, one more pocky in hand, meant for Aya of course. The redhead gave him a soft look and took it silently, pleased that Ken would think to bring him something. Ken grinned at him before turning back to Yohji ad Omi.
"You guys really ought to get moving," he commented, resting his bag on the counter. "You'll be late to meet Mr. Stalker if you don't leave soon." Omi squeaked and Yohji tensed, then he grabbed Omi's hand and the two left the store, walking slowly down the darkening sidewalk. Ken let the smile die from his face, then sighed and turned to Aya.
"They'll be okay, right Aya?" he asked, worried despite his best efforts. Aya came to stand beside him and laid a hand on his shoulder. Words failed him, as usual, but the action was enough, and Ken smiled up at him. "Right. That's a dumb question - sorry." His eyes lit up, and he regained is monstrous grin. "I have something to do, so - um - just come up when you're ready, okay?" With that, he snatched his bag and shot up the stairs. Aya blinked, then shook his head and went off in search of food. No sense facing Ken on an empty stomach.
**********************
Omi clutched Yohji's hand tightly as he peered from side to side, searching the Hapa Sushi Bar for anyone suspicious-looking. He fidgeted in his seat and gripped Yohji's hand more tightly, glad that at least he wasn't alone. This thought put a small smile on his face.
Yohji was so sweet - coming along despite the flower arrangement he'd been sent. It made Omi all tingly inside to think Yohji cared this much about him. He sighed. No matter who this person was, or what they wanted, he'd be all right as long as Yohji was with him.
The door opened abruptly, and they looked up. A man dressed entirely in black with blonde hair approached their table and scowled down at them, glaring particularly at Yohji. "You," he spat out in greeting, "were not supposed to come."
Yohji's eyes flickered in anger. "What are you going to do about it, may I ask?" he said calmly, tone betraying him. The two glared at each other for a moment longer, then the stranger sighed in frustration and sat down.
"Nothing. But must you make things so difficult?" Omi and Yohji were stunned. This man didn't really intend to harm them? What was going on? Clearing his throat hesitantly, Omi inquired,
"Anou, I don't mean to be rude, but. . . why did you ask us here?" The man glared at him, then shrugged and started in on Yohji's plate of spring rolls. Yohji looked seriously affronted.
"My name," the stranger said, "is Yuki Eiri. I-"
"Yuki Eiri?!" Omi squealed. "You're that famous author!"
The man looked annoyed. "Keep your voice down, would you? The last thing I need is a fan gathering." Omi nodded and gulped, understanding perfectly. Yohji snorted.
"Pretty arrogant, aren't you?" he commented dryly, grabbing his food away from the man's hands. Yuki shot him a look.
"And why shouldn't I be? Top of the bestsellers list for 6 months in a row, thank you very much." Yohji rolled his eyes. The author turned back to Omi. "To continue - there's this annoying kid that follows me around. His name is Shuichi. He demanded I write a story about our. . . relationship. But that takes too much work; I'm used to observing other people. I'm going to use the two of you as my character base, and I had a few questions."
Yohji started, surprised. "Why us? We're just your average sappy, romantic gay couple."
Yuki glared at him. "I noticed you in the park the other day. You fit into my storyline. And don't question genius." Yohji bit back a harsh laugh.
Omi smiled nervously at the two of them. "Okay, Yuki-kun, that's all fine, but I have a question. Why did you send me that scary letter? It wasn't very nice, and I would've answered your questions if you'd just asked."
Yuki snorted. "Threats are more effective. Now start speaking."
Omi pouted, then smiled deviously. If it was an interview he wanted, he would get one, and Omi was leaving -nothing- out.
**************************
Ken sighed as he sat back on his heels, staring at the freshly-wrapped gift beside him. The soft red candles - the only source of light in the room - cast twisting shadows all over the redhead's present. It was something he'd bought for Aya while shopping today - he'd decided that bribery might be a safeguard when admitting one's feelings to the resident redhead. Ken groaned aloud as various images of himself being skewered by Aya's katana floated through his mind. Well, it was too late now. He'd invited Aya upstairs to his room, he'd bought the gift, he'd made up his mind. . .
There came a knock at the door, and Ken jumped. //Oh my gosh that's him!// Ken thought frantically, then smacked his head against the wall. //get a hold of yourself!// he demanded silently. The knock came again, louder this time.
"Ken?" Aya called through the door. "Ken? Are you there?"
"Oh yeah, just a sec-" CRASH! Aya started as a loud noise exploded from behind the door. Panicking, Aya wrenched the barrier open to see that Ken had apparently tripped over his dirty laundry and favorite soccer ball and collided with his standing lamp. The brunette peeked out from under the lampshade and grinned sheepishly.
"Er, hi Aya," he tried, struggling up through his clothing and various electrical cords. Aya chuckled and helped him up.
"Hi yourself," he intoned. Ken beamed up at him, then snatched something from the floor and hid it behind his back. Aya blinked, thenshook it off and held out his palm to the brunette. "I brought you something," he mumbled, fighting a blush. Ken grinned. He took the proffered object and, upon finding it to be candy, enthusiastically wolfed it down.
"Sugar!" he exclaimed. "What'd I do to deserve that, Aya?" Aya shrugged.
"Well, you gave me the pocky earlier, and. . . " Ken smiled at him and nodded. Then his expression became apprehensive, and he swallowed hard.
"Um, sit down," he suggested, motioning toward the bed as his chair was currently overflowing with junk. Aya complied but remained silent. "I have something for you, too." Ken managed, obviously nervous.
"I was out shopping today because - well - y'know, your birthday was a couple months ago. And, I'm really sorry, I forgot all about it, but-" he broke off and shoved a package into Aya's hands. "I hope this'll make it up to you," he murmured.
Aya blinked down at the semi-lumpy package he'd been handed and allowed Ken a small smile. His birthday? Hell, they'd -all- forgotten, his birthday, and this wasn't a rare occurrence. Only one year, in fact, could he remember Weiss throwing him a birthday party, and his reaction had been less than stellar.
//Flashback//
~Aya slowly opened the door to the Koneko, his shoulders slumped. He'd just returned from visiting his sister - alone as always. He fought back a sigh and slipped the perfect, icy mask back on. He preferred it that way, he told himself - solitude his only companion.
As he entered the living room, words left him and his usually frozen countenance fell to the floor and shattered. There stood his three teammates, all in ridiculous polka-dotted hats, one of which Yohji quickly strapped over Aya's hair. A huge, oddly shaped cake with bright pink frosting grinned cheekily at him from the counter, and a small pile of gifts sat beside it, practically glowing with colorful wrapping paper. Over their heads hung a huge banner reading: 'Happy Birthday Aya-kun!' Aya blinked. Then he snorted and, ignoring his comrades, stalked toward the stairs. A firm grip on his elbow halted his progress, and he turned to look into the impassioned brown eyes of the resident soccer player.
"Oi, Aya - Omi and Yohji and I went to a lot of trouble to set all this up. I know you don't really care about our feelings one way or another, but the least you could do is try to -act- appreciative!" Aya grunted. He turned for the stairs again, but hesitated when he saw the hurt and stubbornness radiating from Ken's eyes. He saw the glittery tears threatening to pour down Omi's cheeks. He saw the anger riddled in Yohji's expression. With a sigh, he turned back to the gathering and let Ken pull him into the living room, where he proceeded to experience one of the best birthday parties of his life.~
//End Flashback//
Aya shook the memory away as Ken coughed nervously and shifted his feet. Not without reason, his fellow assassins had taken his actions to mean he resented their efforts and had forever after ignored his birthday when it rolled around. Except now. Why? Why change that all of a sudden?
"Why?" he asked gently, the thought coming almost unbidden to his lips. Ken looked confused.
"I told you. Your birthday-" Aya raised a hand to stop him.
"No. Why. . . did you bother?" he pressed, still trying to keep his voice kind. Ken shifted where he stood.
"I just - wanted to do something for you, that's all," Ken mumbled, wringing his hands wretchedly. Maybe he shouldn't have bought anything after all. Aya had never shown interest in his birthday - this was a bad idea, he knew it. Without warning, he felt a light tug on his wrist as he was pulled down to sit beside Aya on the bed. Ken blushed.
"Thank you," Aya breathed. Ken's heart fluttered. Aya gently pried the wrapping paper off his belated birthday gift. And stared. In his hands, collared by a bright red bow, was a yellow, soft creature with black stripes and big plush eyes. Aya started. Ken looked away. "This. . . this is. . . " Aya stammered, looking over the Pokemon plushie in his hands.
Ken's blush darkened. "Yeah - Pikachu. I know it's pretty dumb, but, well. . . I remembered you liked it, and I couldn't think of anything else. . . "
Ken was interrupted by a quiet finger across his lips. He looked up into Aya's gaze and was surprised to see what could only be described as sparkles and shoujo bubbles in the redhead's violet eyes. Aya smiled at him, and Ken felt himself stop breathing.
Aya's thoughts were a jumbled mess as he stared at the Pokemon. He didn't think he'd ever been happier during all the years he'd been in Weiss. Ken's thoughtfulness was amazing. He stopped the flow of self- depreciating words coming from Ken's lips and smiled sincerely at the brunette.
The gift was just so representative of the man he'd fallen in love with. It wasn't eloquent. It wasn't contrived. It wasn't extraordinarily practical. But it was cute, soft, and sweet - it had big eyes and unbreakable loyalty and a cheerful personality and, he was sure, a heart of gold overflowing with love and caring for those around him. Even cold- hearted, bastardly ones like Aya himself.
Aya shook his head as he thought this. No - his heart wasn't cold anymore. Ken's warmth had melted it into a puddle of lovesick goo. And if Ken wanted it, Ken could have it. The thought widened his smile even more - Ken stared at him, his own features washed with relief. It looked like Aya wasn't angry with him after all.
Aya reached out and cupped Ken's cheek in his hand. "Ken," he whispered, eyes shining with what might have been unshed tears. Ken blinked at the unexpected contact. "Thank you very much," he managed, lacing their fingers together. Ken's eyes widened as Aya leaned forward and placed a light kiss on his tanned cheek, whispering 'chu' as he drew back. The brunette's mind went numb. //He - he kissed me! Holy cow, he kissed me!// Aya's eyes shone as he pulled away, looking somewhat anxious. //Answer him!// Ken's mind encouraged. //Do it! Now!//
"Aya. . . " he croaked, clutching at his courage with all his might. "Aya, I - I love. . . you." Aya started. Ken pulled his hand away and squeezed his eyes shut. There. He'd finally said it. He felt a pale hand tangle itself in his deep chocolate hair, and his eyes blinked open. Aya was smiling beautifully at him, and there was no katana in sight.
"Do you. . . mean that?" Aya asked finally, unable to contain his joy. Ken nodded, still worried.
"Aya. . . I. . . I know it's kinda unexpected, but. . . I wouldn't have said it if I didn't mean it," he answered softly. His words echoed in the still air. Without warning, Aya tugged him firmly into his arms and against his chest, burying his face in his friend's brown locks as he did so. Ken looked up, surprised at his reaction.
"Aya?" he breathed, hardly daring to believe what his mind was telling him. The answering expression in the redhead's eyes banished whatever doubts he'd been feeling.
"I l-love you, too, Ken," Aya murmured. Ken's eyes softened. "I love you, too."
Their lips met in the quiet candlelight; as their eyes slipped closed, a small breeze sifted through the light curtains and brushed the candle flames out, playing across their skin. Ken shivered - Aya pulled him closer. Ken's warm eyes looked up into his as they parted and Aya found himself falling all over again. //I'm not quite sure what it is you do to me, Ken,// Aya mused. //But whatever it is, I hope you never stop.//
As Aya leaned down to kiss him again, Ken found his thoughts dwelling on his two best friends. //Thanks Yohji, Omi,// he reflected silently as he lost all conscious thought. //We couldn't have done it without you.// Aya broke apart from his lover once more to gaze into the younger man's deep eyes.
//I should buy Yohji something,// he thought fleetingly. //Even though there's not a thing in the world that could come close to what he's given me. My Ken. Finally.//
//Mine.//
End Day 6
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Whew! Finally! Gosh this was a long chapter. But that means it's pretty much done! All we have left is the epilogue of sorts - y'know, the really really happy ending that wraps it all up. I hope everybody enjoyed this story. I know I did. Please review and tell me what you thought - it means a lot to me. Ja ne! ^-*
