Disclaimer: see a previous chapter.

this thorn – Thank you for the kind words of support. Yeah, I agree about the Yohji/salon thing and I honesty thought I'd done a better job with it but after I reread it I totally agree. I was just looking to show that Aya wasn't careless about Wufei showing up and a little humor as well because I could picture Yohji getting sidetracked during a delivery. Glad you enjoyed and I hope you keep reading.

Anissa32 – hope you liked the "Dates" chapter. The pool hall was my favorite part of that chapter. I liked the playful banter and Wufei teasing Aya. Teasing is so much fun.

TanyaG – I'm glad you're enjoying the story and thanks for your review.

KokushibyouOni – Ok, so the crying wasn't very angsty and it was brief, but I hope you liked it. Ran's sister is just too big a part of who he is not to bring her into the picture, but at the same time I didn't want to dwell on it, ya know?

Dragon's Desire

Chapter 9

That night of the festival, Ran had revealed his past to Wufei and it seemed as if their relationship had breached a great chasm. Wufei understood Ran so much more after learning about his sister and his parents. So much loss and anger. No wonder he had withdrawn into himself.

He hadn't bothered to mention the earrings. He didn't feel it was the time. He could tell Ran had been through enough and the earrings honestly didn't matter in the scheme of things. Ran sharing his past with him was worth more than anything material.

Wufei sat back on the sofa and sighed. That had been over three months ago and he and Ran had only grown closer. They had been driving back and forth to see each other and it was working out well enough but was becoming increasingly difficult and frustrating. Mostly because no matter how well Wufei thought things were going, Ran always backed off staying the night with him. He was becoming troubled by Ran's unwillingness to take their relationship to the next level and sleep together. He realized they didn't see each other on a daily basis, but they had been dating for several months and Wufei was losing his patience. I love him and I want to wait for him, but….. Wufei sighed again and looked down at the piece of white paper in his hand. It was just a brief note Ran had dashed off and managed to stash in Wufei's jacket pocket without him knowing. He'd found it earlier today when he went out to run some errands.

I miss you. I miss your smile, your voice, the feel of your arms around me. I can't wait until we see each other again.

"Oh Ran…I miss you, too."

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Ran absently played with the lavender earring in his ear as he watched TV. He wasn't used to wearing a stud. It was his first time wearing it and it felt different. He'd talked to Wufei earlier in the day and after hanging up he began missing the man so much that he put the earring on just to have a reminder of the ebony-haired man with him, just like he did with Aya's earring.

Omi had rented some movies to keep them entertained during the predicted rainy week and right now he and Ran were seated on the sofa, sharing a blanket and a bowl of popcorn. Yohji had declared that a little rain wasn't going to deter him from having some fun and left a few hours ago.

Suddenly Omi made a small squeaking noise and his head dove into Ran's arm. Brought out of his daze, Ran lifted his arm and wrapped it around the younger assassin, pulling him in close. He felt Omi stiffen at the gesture and was about to let go, but then the teen snuggled in, adjusting the blanket to their new position.

This is all Wufei's fault. Ever since that night in Aya's hospital room where he broke down and told Wufei everything, things had been different. Not just between him and Wufei, but also his relationship with Yohji and Omi had changed. He was much more relaxed around them and Yohji didn't piss him off nearly as much as he used to. He'd even told them his real name. Only Ken had been privy to that information and been allowed to use it in private. Not that he ever did. He was too scared of slipping in front of others and Ran had appreciated the gesture tremendously, but he had desperately wanted to hear Ken call him by his real name.

Talking with Wufei that night, baring his pain to someone and having them embrace him, lifted a huge weight from Ran. Even though Wufei had been hurt by Ran's deception, he had been understanding, patient and loving that night. They stayed in Aya's room and talked for hours before the nurse came in and apologetically asked them to leave. Wufei had driven him home and given him a tender kiss goodnight.

"Goodnight….Ran."

Ran had shivered at his name being whispered against his lips. He liked hearing Wufei say his name. It had been so long since anyone had said his name in such a tender way.

Ran had forgotten about the earrings until he went to bed that night, the small box falling from his yukata as he tossed it in the hamper. He stared at them for awhile before putting them away in a drawer for safekeeping. He wasn't ready to wear it yet. And he had a feeling Wufei had purposefully not asked about the earrings, knowing he needed time.

But now he was compelled to wear the earring. He was glad that nobody made a big deal about the new earring. He had dreaded a scene with Yohji when the playboy came to say he was going out, but instead the lanky blonde just smirked and winked before heading out the door.

Omi had been a bit bolder, asking in his hesitant yet determined way if the earring was a gift from Wufei. Ran had replied in the affirmative and that had been the end of the conversation. But what do I do with the other earring? Wufei's ear wasn't pierced and if he'd wanted it for something he would have kept it, right?

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

The day had been perfect. They hadn't seen each other in three weeks and Wufei wanted to do something really special. He arrived the night before and slept over at Duo's and Ken's place, then picked Ran up the next morning. Ran had even worn the lavender jade earring. Wufei didn't make a big deal about it. He reached out and tugged on Ran's ear gently, a knowing smile on his face.

"Nice earring."

Ran didn't say anything and he didn't have to. The rosy cheeks were thanks enough for Wufei.

The couple started out at sunrise and made it to the quiet seaside town in time for a quick breakfast, then proceeded to tour the small town, shopping, having lunch and just enjoying each other's company.

"Here you go."

Wufei took the small white bag and looked inside. "What's this for?"

"I saw you eyeing it up when we passed the store so while you were browsing I went back for it."

Wufei took a bite of the still warm cookie. It was as good as it looked. He smiled and leaned in, giving Ran a kiss. "Thank you."

"You're welcome." Wufei took another bite and frowned. "Something wrong?"

"It doesn't taste the same. Oh, wait." Wufei grabbed Ran and pulled him close, dipping him back slightly, an arm on his back for support. When he broke the kiss and righted them, he had a smirk on his face while Ran just looked flushed. "It tastes better with a side of you."

Ran shook his head as he wiped his mouth of a few stray crumbs. "Incorrigible. C'mon." He started walking down the street backwards still facing Wufei.

"Wait! I still have half a cookie left!"

Ran let out a small chuckle and turned his back. Wufei caught up with him and tried to get the redhead to kiss him again so he could finish his cookie.

"Please, Ran? I'm serious, it just tastes better."

"No. Just eat the cookie."

"Oh, come on."

"I'm regretting getting you that stupid cookie."

"Ran if you---"

Suddenly Ran grabbed the remaining piece of cookie and shoved it in his mouth. Wufei stood there, gaping.

"But---"

Ran chewed and swallowed the piece of cookie with satisfaction. Then he grabbed Wufei by the back of the neck and brought him in for a deep kiss. When he broke the kiss Ran licked his lips and looked thoughtful for a moment.

"You're right. It does taste better."

Wufei stood there for a few stunned seconds then burst out laughing. He threw an arm around Ran's waist and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek as they continued down the street.

"I'm not sure if the bad influence is me or Yohji, but I like it."

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Later that day…..

Wufei was happy and hopeful. He could see that Ran was not only opening up to him, but to the world in general. Case in point, he was becoming much more open to affection in public. It was the first time Ran had taken the initiative and shown him such affection in public. He didn't count holding hands. He would freely admit that he loved feeling Ran clasp his hand so possessively, but now that they were in what he considered a relationship, he hoped that the redhead would come out of his shell further and this was definitely a step in the right direction. He's comfortable with me, with himself, and most importantly, with us.

"What are you thinking about?"

The deep voice brought Wufei out of his memory and he looked over at Ran who was sitting next to him, knees drawn up to his chest, head laying on them as he watched Wufei. The novelist got the smallest charge at the thought that Ran had been watching him.

"You." Wufei leaned over and kissed Ran, the pair falling over at the awkward angle. Wufei pushed himself up and looked down at Ran who was now pinned under him thanks to their fall.

"Get off me."

"No. This is your fault. You could have lifted your head and we wouldn't be in this oh-so-convenient position."

"Wufei…"

"Too late, Ran. The thoughts are already there." Wufei descended upon Ran's lips before the redhead could protest any further. For the briefest of moments, Ran pushed against Wufei. Then his mind began to shut down as Wufei's tongue demanded his attention. Wufei began kissing down Ran's neck, his fingers deftly unbuttoning Ran's shirt. He trailed a wet path down to Ran's collarbone as he slipped a hand into Ran's shirt and found a nipple.

Ran gasped and pushed Wufei away when he felt Wufei's tongue on his nipple. "N-no, stop."

"Ran?"

Ran yanked his shirt closed and stared up at the starry sky, trying to compose himself. "Not now, not here."

Wufei retreated to his previous position on the blanket with a sigh. He would be willing to accept Ran's reason for stopping if the man didn't constantly stop them before things could get any further than kissing. What's his problem? He can't be that shy. And he sure as hell isn't some scared virgin. From what he's let me see of his body, it's not grotesque with old wounds or anything. Gods, at this point I wish it were just to have a reason.

Wufei looked out at the black ocean and recalled all the times they had been together and Ran had shied away, slipped from his arms, pushed him away. All the excuses came floating back into his head. "It's getting late, I have to open tomorrow…..I don't want them knowing my business. You can't stay the night…..If I stay in the hotel with you, everyone will know what happened….I don't want to aggravate this wound……please, just give me some time…."

"I'm trying, Ran."

"What did you say?"

Wufei shook his head and looked back at Ran, a sheepish grin on his face. "Nothing."

Wufei tried to hide his disappointment, but Ran could see it in his eyes. He pushed himself back up and stole a quick look at Wufei before turning his attention back to the ocean, his own guilt eating away at him for making Wufei unhappy. I care, Wufei, I really do, but I won't be enough. We live in different cities and have very different lifestyles. I can't be there for you everyday. We can't have the happy ending like Duo and Ken. That's not my destiny. I was stupid to think I could give you what you needed. But I'm so selfish, I can't let go.

"Come here."

Before Ran could react, Wufei pulled him into his lap, his arms wrapped around his waist, his chin resting on Ran's shoulder.

"You don't mind of we stay like this for a little while, do you?"

"No."

Wufei gave him a little squeeze and they sat there in silence for awhile, the ocean the only sound. Then Ran felt Wufei nuzzle his neck and he closed his eyes as he leaned his head to the side to allow Wufei better access to his neck. I'm so damn selfish. Soft lips took advantage, quickly followed by a warm wet tongue.

Wufei brought one of his hands up to Ran's chest and slipped it underneath the shirt through the generous opening at the collar that he'd made only a few moments ago. Ran moaned and leaned back into Wufei, one hand snaking up and behind Wufei's head, grabbing a handful of hair. When Wufei nipped at Ran's ear, he couldn't take it anymore. He turned his head and captured Wufei's lips for an urgent kiss.

Wufei had unbuttoned the few remaining buttons on Ran's shirt and he started to remove the redhead's shirt. He felt Ran's body stiffen and he started to pull away. Wufei held Ran's chin in place forcefully, but his voice was soft and soothing.

"I won't do anything else, Ran. I promise. Just let me kiss you and feel your skin."

Almost panicked amethyst eyes studied the glinting onyx orbs. What is he so afraid of? Wufei caressed the pale cheek and his eyes roamed over the beautiful face. I'll be patient for you, Ran.

Ran gave a barely perceptible nod and kissed Wufei. The novelist let his hands roam once again, noting the small scars that were scattered over the smooth flesh. Ran shuddered under his touch and Wufei fought to keep his own shaking under control. Being this close to Ran and not being able to go any further was testing his willpower beyond anything he'd ever experienced before.

Ran could tell Wufei was fighting his desire. He had guided Ran down onto his back and hovered over his body, kissing and licking every inch of his exposed skin. Ran was beginning to lose himself and he instinctively thrust upwards with his hips as he squirmed under Wufei's tongue. That motion drove Wufei to let his lower body rest against Ran's. The sensation of their erections grinding together was sheer agonizing pleasure and he could tell Wufei felt the same way because he could feel the man trembling. I've got to stop this. It's not right to do this to him.

"We….we should….get going."

Wufei heard the strained voice and a thought suddenly occurred to him that if Ran was as turned on as he sounded, and all signs indicated yes, he could probably push the redhead over the edge if he just forced his hand a little…..

Suddenly Wufei broke the kiss and pushed himself off of Ran. He sat back on his knees, eyes wide in alarm. Ran didn't know what was going on and he became worried for Wufei when he saw the fear in the onyx eyes. He slowly sat up, not bothering to hide the worry he felt.

"Wufei?"

"I'm sorry….you're right, we should go. It's late." Wufei shook his head and proceeded to get up and pack their blanket and basket, ignoring the worried redhead. Oh gods, how could I think such a thing! I'm a monster!

The drive back to the city was quiet and taken at very high speeds. If anyone other than Wufei had been driving, Ran would be worried. But he'd come to realize that the man could handle a vehicle.

When they reached the Koneko in record time, Wufei turned to Ran looking very serious. "Ran….you know I care about you, right?" Ran just nodded. Wufei leaned over to kiss Ran but the redhead backed away, wanting to ask what was wrong but his words were cut off before they could escape, as Wufei misinterpreted the slight retreat. "Don't. Not anymore, Ran." Ran's eyes went wide at the commanding tone and he unconsciously obeyed, leaning forward to his original position. "I've never denied my feelings for you or the fact that I was with you. Please give me the same respect."

Ran suddenly lunged forward and kissed Wufei, surprising the man and rendering him immobile for several seconds. Finally, he grabbed Ran and held him tightly, kissing him back almost ferociously. Ran whimpered at the passion being directed towards him and it was bringing him to tears, knowing he was too scared to give Wufei the release he so desperately wanted.

When they broke the kiss, Ran whispered against Wufei's kiss swollen lips. "I'm sorry, Wufei."

"Don't be sorry. Just be with me."

"I…." Ran kissed him again, at a loss for what else to do. He eventually, slowly pulled away and got out of the car. "Goodnight, Wufei."

"Goodnight, Ran." Wufei started the car again and just as he was pulling out onto the street, he heard Ran yelling his name. He looked around and was surprised to see the man standing next to him in the street. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing." Ran leaned down and whispered into Wufei's ear, sending a little chill down the novelist's spine. "I care about you too, Wufei. Be careful driving home." Ran gave Wufei a quick kiss on the lips as he straightened back up and his heart melted at the smile on Wufei's lips. He looks happy. I made him happy.

Wufei could only nod and he drove off before Ran could see his eyes welling up. He never cried. But if he had, he wouldn't have felt weak or stupid. All he could feel was happy. Ran cares.

To be continued…..