A/N: HAPPY HALLOWEEN! May all your treats be sweet and all your tricks be answered with a laugh. Sorry to say, nothing scary or supernatural in this chapter, but I do dress up some of the characters in costume, go me! (grins) Oh, yeah, a Warning! There is slash ahead, but nothing too graphic, I don't think.

Center Stage

Trowa turned the stove off and took the spatula that Harry handed him. Duo was singing off key behind them, shredding the lettuce for their burgers, and he rolled his eyes, making the bespectacled boy giggle. Trowa smiled back, still amused by the leopard print plastic frames that Harry had chosen for his glasses. He and Harry definitely shared a great love for big cats.

It had been two weeks since Sally had examined their boy. The MEG had revealed Harry's mind was more active than normal, but the gene analysis had proven his DNA stable. Like Quatre, Harry had an extra allele in his DNA, but it was uniform and the bonds between each helix were strong. There was nothing to prove that it wasn't a natural mutation, and that meant they had lost their last lead. The only good thing was that Harry was at least in no danger of dying.

A buzz sounded from the counter as Trowa's cell rang. He turned to answer it only to see Duo had already snatched up the phone.

"Circus Circus, free rides on Mondays, what can I do you for?"

Trowa glared and easily pulled the cell from Duo's slippery hand. "Hello?"

"Hey," Quatre's voice answered. "Work took a little longer than I expected, and all the staff has gone home. Do you think you could pick me up?"

"I'll be right there," Trowa promised. He hung up and untied his apron, turning to the others. "You two are in charge. I'm going to go get Quatre."

"Have fun," Duo called, wiggling his fingers.

Harry took the spatula. "Will you be back for dinner?"

"I don't think so," Duo answered for him, coming around the counter to ruffle the boy's hair. "Since we're gonna start eating now and Tro hasn't even left yet. They'll probably stop and eat somewhere. We'll see them in the morning."

Trowa cast his friend a suspicious look.

Duo smiled innocently. "Go on. You shouldn't keep Kitty-Cat waiting."

Trowa knelt and hugged Harry goodbye, still eyeing Duo, but the teen said nothing as he bounced on his toes and grinned. Shaking his head, he headed out. Heero and Wufei looked up curiously, but he waved them off, knowing Duo would explain where he'd gone and take great pleasure doing it.

He made his way out to the truck he and Cathy shared while he was at the circus. She was standing outside her trailer and gave him a wave as he pulled down the path carefully. The light panels were shutting down for their recharge period, and the shadows under the trees were thick. He pulled easily out onto the street. Traffic was slow, which wasn't unusual for a Monday night.

As he drove, Trowa thought about his lover. There hadn't been very many moments where they could be alone. They slept together at night, exchanging soft kisses and gentle caresses, but usually not going further than that. He missed Quatre desperately, but more than that, he was worried about Quatre's wellbeing.

Quatre had been acting unusual lately. His emotions and reactions seemed to be more… fervent. Trowa would almost say hyper. The calm center he enjoyed most in the blond had been missing, but every time he brought it up, Quatre would say he was just busy with work or worried about Harry, that he'd be better when things settled down, but it had already been a couple months. If anything, Trowa thought Quatre was acting more hectic, not less.

The Winner Enterprises Inc building came into view, drawing his attention. All the windows were dark, except for a select few. He parked in front and walked up the concrete path. He didn't see anyone as he entered the lobby. Not even the receptionist was behind the front desk, and he had to punch in the security code to get on the elevator. The mirrored doors swung closed with a soft whoosh.

Trowa pressed the button for the top floor, eyes raking his reflection. He was wearing jeans and his favorite brown canvas jacket with a wrinkled t-shirt underneath. The casual attire made him feel suddenly self-conscious. Usually when he came to Quatre's place of business, he was acting as a bodyguard and wore a uniform of all black, loaded down with weapons. He felt strangely exposed, coming to one of the WEI buildings dressed like this.

When the elevator came to a stop and let him off, he stuffed his hands in his jean pockets. His work boots sunk into the plush carpet, silencing his every step as he continued further into the executive suite. He passed Quatre's secretary's abandoned desk and continued to the heavy wooden doors of his lover's office. He turned the knob and slipped inside, eyes widening, all thoughts and concerns falling away completely.

Candles covered every surface. They even sat on the floor lining the walls. Quatre stood in front of his desk, leaning back against it with his hands resting casually on either side of his slender hips. Trowa's heart rate began to accelerate as he took in the blond's bare feet, unbuttoned slacks, and bare chest. A silk tie hung loosely around his neck, framing perfect collarbones and drawing attentions to his smooth chest.

Mussed golden hair fell into Quatre's lust dark eyes as the blond smirked. "Hello, Trowa."

Trowa swallowed hard, unable to speak as he drank in the sight of his gorgeous lover.

"I've missed you," Quatre continued, voice low. He pushed off from the desk and walked slowly forward, his hips swaying gently with every deliberate step.

Trowa stared, hypnotized. Every breath he took seemed to sear his lungs.

"You're a little overdressed for this meeting," the blond scolded, his smirk morphing into a mischievous grin as his hands slid up Trowa's chest and pulled the jacket off his shoulders.

"Quatre…" His hands curled around his lover's thin waist, gliding over heated skin. One hand slid up Quatre's back, holding to a sharp shoulder blade while the other brushed delicately over a sensitive nipple.

"Yes?" Quatre asked, a little breathless.

"So beautiful," he murmured, heart in his throat, amazed that he was allowed to touch Quatre like this. The feeling never went away, no matter how many times they came together.

Quatre reached up and hooked his bangs behind his ear. "I'm not the only one."

Trowa blushed and shifted his grip to his lover's neck as he kissed him deeply. Quatre moaned as their tongues slid wetly together. Trowa wrapped his free arm around the blond's waist, anchoring their bodies together. The firm pressure made his whole body throb with pleasure, and he echoed his lover's moan.

"Clothes. Off," Quatre panted when their mouths finally broke apart.

Trowa stepped on the back of his heels to kick off his boots. Quatre moved backwards, lips swollen and glistening in the candle light, his eyes dancing. One slender hand toyed with his tie, loosening it further until the tail just brushed the soft hairs below his belly button. Trowa swallowed again, eyes wide as he quickly tugged his shirt over his head.

Quatre groaned. "You have the sexiest legs I've ever seen. They go on for miles." His gleaming, lust dark eyes ran hungrily up and down Trowa's body.

He blushed again. Heat hazed his senses, giving him the courage to play. He walked forward, one foot placed directly in front of the other, swaying his hips from side-to-side. Quatre's eyes followed him, unblinking, as Trowa used one hand to unsnap the top button and slowly lower the zipper. He could hear his lover's panting, fast and shallow, as he came to a stop just out of reach.

He gasped when Quatre suddenly flung himself forward, arms wrapping around his neck as their mouths tried to devour each other. Hands grasped soft skin, tugged and pulled at their pants, until they were both dizzy and breathless, leaning naked against Quatre's desk. Trembling faintly, Trowa pressed his forehead to his lovers, just trying to catch his breath. He'd never seen Quatre this insistent, this desperate.

Quatre arched against him, sending his thoughts scattering as hot need speared through him. Somehow they got turned around. Quatre was facing the opposite way, bent slightly over the desk, as Trowa pressed against his back, bucking helplessly closer to euphoria. He gasped, almost slipping inside his lover's already prepared channel.

Trowa moaned loudly as he pictured his lover sitting in here, preparing himself as he waited for Trowa to arrive. It was hot as hell, but at the same time he felt anxiety cutting through his stomach. Things were going so fast, he could hardly think.

"No. Don't stop," Quatre demanded, voice rough, as he looked over his shoulder, hips working the air uselessly. "Trowa, please…"

Trowa could never deny him anything. He moved back in, but he firmly turned his love so they were facing each other. He lifted Quatre onto the desk and laid him down, tugging his hips over the edge. Quatre wrapped his legs around his waist, whining in need. Tears glittered in those spectacular blue eyes, and Trowa kissed them away as he pressed slowly inside the tight body underneath him.

They moaned in unison. Quatre gasped, begging for more, begging for harder, but Trowa had him pinned. He moved with careful precision, hitting that spot that had Quatre screaming, his words disintegrating into incoherent sounds of pleasure. Each slow press forward drove Trowa deep inside his lover, and he moaned loudly at the sheer ecstasy that sizzled and sparked down every nerve.

Quatre's hand grasped hard at Trowa's short hair, holding his head to the crook of Quatre's neck, the other arm flung wide as he rode out the forceful thrusts. Trowa shifted the blond's leg, pinning the silky thigh between their chests, allowing a deeper angle that had Quatre keening and Trowa seeing stars. The pressure built low in his belly until he was echoing Quatre's cries, their bodies sliding slickly as they teetered to the edge of perfect bliss.

Quatre voice suddenly rang out in triumph, his body spasming around Trowa, and the world exploded, breaking apart on waves of sensation. His body went rigid, locking up as he rode it out, his hips snapping forward in fast, choppy thrusts. Everything faded away, lost to overwhelming waves of tangible color.

The haze settled, releasing him enough that he became aware he was sprawled across Quatre's chest, gasping as he tried to catch his breath. Quatre held him, fingers combing through his damp, brown bangs. Trowa pressed a wet kiss to his chest before he stood, gently slipping out of his lover. Quatre groaned his disapproval, and Trowa bent to lay another quick kiss to his cheek.

He returned with tissues from the desk. Quatre took them, standing up. His cheeks were delightfully flushed, his hair hanging damp in his face. Smiling, Trowa traced his features with a fingertip before pulling Quatre in for another kiss. "I love you."

Quatre's eyes widened, hope visible in his raw expression.

Trowa ducked his head, ashamed this was the first time he'd said it. He knew Quatre could feel it through his empathy, but that didn't mean he shouldn't tell him. Boldly, he looked up and held his lover's eyes. "I love you, Quatre."

His love smiled so wide and bright, it sent his heart rocketing against his ribs once more. "I love you, too, Trowa."

Kissing, touching, they managed to stagger over to the couch. Quatre curled up in the corner with Trowa's long arms holding him close. The blond traced patterns on his chest as they sat in silence, enjoying each other and the night. Contentment filled every nook and cranny of Trowa's soul. It was for times like this that he lived. He was almost asleep when Quatre's voice reached him.

"Why did you turn me around? Why don't you ever take me from behind?"

Trowa's eyes flew open, every muscle tensing. His love gasped, and he knew Quatre was reading him, feeling the cold panic as if it were his own. He tried to pull away, but Quatre held on, grip surprisingly strong.

"No. Trowa, please. Talk to me. I want to understand," Quatre begged, pressing both hands to Trowa's chest as if to pin him there.

He closed his eyes and forced his breathing to steady. He pushed everything down deep, trying to protect himself as well as Quatre.

"I'm sorry," came his love's soft voice, barely more than a whisper. "I don't mean to hurt you, but I need to understand this. It feels like you're holding back. You're with me, but there's something else there, too. Are you afraid of hurting me? I'm not weak, Trowa. I'm not some fragile being you have to hold back with. I don't think I can stand it, if that's what you think. I don't need you to be my bodyguard when it's just us. I need you to be my lover, my partner."

"Stop," Trowa pleaded, voice rough, and opened his eyes to see that tears streaked his lover's face. Physical pain stab through him at the sight. "…Quatre."

The blond pulled away, shaking his head with a glare. "I let you see when I'm vulnerable, when I need help," he said angrily, fists clenched. "I trust you to not think I'm weak. Was I wrong?"

"No! It has nothing to do with that."

Trowa pushed away from Quatre and stalked over to their pants discarded on the floor. He couldn't talk about this naked.

Once they were decent, he sat next to his lover on the couch. He stared at the opposite wall, his forearms braced on his thighs, unable to met Quatre's eyes. "I never thought I'd have a lover," he began, words coming slow. "Before you, I thought sex was disgusting and wanted no part of it. I grew up with mercenaries, Quatre. They provided the bare essentials for me to live, but that was all. They called me Nanashi, which means No Name. I didn't become Trowa Barton until I was fourteen, just before I became a Gundam pilot. I wasn't cared for, protected, or sheltered."

"Did they…" Quatre's voice hitched.

"No." Trowa hid behind his bangs, taking refuge in the numbing cold spreading through his center. "They didn't rape me. But they'd bring women to the camp. Whores mostly. It was almost always violent. They'd laugh at me when I cried for the women and make me watch until I stopped."

An arm came around his back as Quatre rested his chin on his shoulder. "That's why you don't like to kiss in public or like to get rough when we're together."

"To do that to you. Make you into some kind of spectacle, to make you one of those whores…" Trowa closed his eyes, fists clenching. "Quatre, you were the first person to make me feel warm. My life was a very, very cold place before you. I knew nothing of friendship, of compassion. My world was literally death and emptiness. I was a mercenary from infancy. I killed and pillaged, I cared about no one, but that changed when you took me home off the battlefield. You took me to your estate, even though you didn't know me. You were kind, and you shared your music with me, on your violin. You encouraged me to learn to play the flute." He opened his eyes and glanced shyly at his lover. "In a way, that was the true day I was born. That's why I took October 3rd as my birthday. It was the day I met you."

"Oh, Trowa." Quatre turned his face and kissed him slowly, deeply, freeing him from that cold place. When Quatre pulled away, his blue eyes seemed to take up the whole universe. "Thank you. For explaining. I want to know everything there is to know about you. Because I love you. Because we're partners. And no matter what we do together, you'll never be like them. Never, I swear it."

Trowa nodded, throat too tight to speak. He pulled Quatre close and kissed him.

He kept kissing him, even as Quatre pressed him back until he was lying on the couch. He watched through wet eyes as Quatre licked and suckled down his chest. Fluttering touches tickled his ribs and stomach. He sighed, combing his fingers through Quatre's hair. Then his pants were open once more and Quatre's mouth was on him. He arched with a loud moan and let everything go except for this one perfect moment.

xXxXxXx

Duo cracked open his eyes as Wufei slipped out of their room to do his dawn Tai Chi or whatever he did. He waited a minute to make sure the teen wasn't coming back before creeping across the room to Heero's bed. For the last few days, he'd snuck over for a cuddle before Harry woke up. Heero hadn't yet kicked him out of the bed, but he hadn't really cooperated either, so Duo had decided it was time to give another push.

He crawled onto the bed, physically moving Heero over so that he had room. Heero turned on his side, facing away from Duo as he had every time before. Usually Duo did nothing more than lay behind him, draping an arm over his waist. Not this time. He pulled Heero closer to his chest and pressed a warm kiss to the back of his neck. Heero tensed in his arms, but Duo didn't stop. He moved the gentle kisses along Heero's skin until he tugged an ear lobe into his mouth, sucking softly.

"What are you doing?" Heero demanded, voice a low hiss.

Duo bit down softly before returning to the spot right behind Heero's ear, licking and kissing, while his hand slipped up Heero's shirt and scratched lightly at the brunet's stomach. He groaned when Heero shifted, the friction delicious against his cotton-covered groin.

"Duo!" Heero snapped, louder this time.

"Does it hurt?" he asked, voice husky from sleep.

"…No."

Duo hummed in approval. "Does it feel good?"

He didn't get an answer. He hadn't expected one. Instead, he moved up onto his elbow so he could lean forward and capture Heero's lips. The kiss was slow, languid, but his heart skipped a beat when Heero began kissing back, his hand sinking into Duo's hair and pushing his mouth harder down on his own. The kiss became hungry, teeth and tongues and heat. Duo moaned, arms tightening around his crush for a brief second before he slid his hand down under Heero's briefs. Heero's back arched, dislodging their mouths and pressing his hips back into Duo's groin.

"God," he groaned and tried to keep the rhythm of his hand steady.

Heero's hand clamped down on his wrist, but he didn't stop Duo.

The sounds of their heavy breathing filled the room, punctuated by occasional groans and sighs. Duo left a ring of hickeys collaring the back of Heero's neck. Heero bit down on his jaw hard enough to leave a mark. The sheets stuck to their arms and chests where sweat dewed their skin, and still they climbed together, to that moment of ecstasy.

"Come on, Heero," Duo gasped breathlessly. "Almost there. God, gunna cum all over your back."

Heero arched, silent, clamping down around Duo's wrist hard enough to leave bruises.

Duo closed his eyes, breathing in his delicious scent as he tumbled over the cliff after his partner.

They lay there panting, tangled up in the blankets and each other. When Heero shifted, a disgruntled sound escaping his lips, Duo smirked and dove under the sheets.

"Let me clean you up, Hee-chan."

Heero gasped, fingers tangling in Duo's braided hair as he gave him a tongue bath. Duo groaned as Heero's spicy flavor flooded his mouth, and he pinned his crush's lean hips down, taking his time licking him clean. Heero made no move to stop him, and Duo smirked lazily, triumphant. When he was finished, he pulled off his wrinkled shirt to wipe up his own mess.

Heero lay on his back, flushed, expression blank as he watched Duo with glittering dark eyes.

Duo placed his hands on either side of his head and leaned over him. His braid slithered over his shoulder and fell onto the teen's chest, and Heero snaked a hand up between them to grab hold. Seeing that possessive movement sent a bolt of pleasure straight through him. He grinned, filled to bursting, and dipped down for a quick kiss.

"Morning, Hee-chan. Was it good for you?"

"Baka," Heero answered, monotone, but a smile peeked out at the corners of his mouth.

"You love me," Duo taunted, moving back to his side of the room.

He changed into fresh clothes, deliberately turning his back as he unbound his hair. He bent down to get his brush, and when he straightened, Heero was there beside him, hand held out expectantly.

Duo hid a grin as he passed it over. His playful mood faded into sheer contentment as Heero brushed his hair with meticulous strokes, working his way up from the bottom, which fell to just below his ass, to the top. Heero kept up the soothing motion even after the brush ran smoothly all the way through. Duo sighed, fighting to keep his knees locked as his whole body melted.

"It's beautiful," Heero murmured. "…Why did you grow it so long?"

Duo's eyes opened and stared at the tent wall, surprised at the fact that Heero had actually asked a personal question. "It fell about mid-back when the church took me in off the streets. Sister Helen tried to cut it because it was so filthy and tangled. I didn't really care, one way or another, but I threw a fit, figuring this would prove they didn't care what I thought or wanted. That they didn't care about me personally like Father Maxwell claimed. They just wanted to make me into a perfect Christian they could put on display. But…" He smiled, remembering. "Father Maxwell told Sister Helen to leave it. It took hours to get it clean and untangled, and then she taught me how to braid it. It was the first time anyone ever listened to me. The first time anyone was willing to accepted me for who I was. My hair reminds me of them and that not everyone is evil, and it reminds me to be myself. It's my promise to never let the world change me."

"Duo…" Heero's tone was low and rough, thick with rare emotion.

Duo forgot how to breathe. His whole being was focused on the man standing behind him.

Arms suddenly came around him in an awkward hug, pulling him against Heero's firm chest. "I don't know how to be what you want."

"You didn't know how to be a father, but you're a damn good one," he pointed out in a whisper, afraid to shatter the moment.

There was a long pause before Heero answered gruffly, "I'm his brother. We all are."

Duo turned around, his hair hanging loose down his back in a smooth, wavy sheet. Heero was watching him, expression tense. There was something lost and confused in his eyes, and Duo answered with uncharacteristic gentleness. "We all have our own individual relationships with Harry. I'm the goofy big brother, Wufei is like his mentor, Trowa and Quatre make pretty good moms, but you're his father, Heero."

Heero looked away, expression closing off once more. He handed Duo a hair tie and returned to his side of the room to get dressed.

Duo watched him as he braided his hair. He didn't say anything, aware Heero needed space to think, but he couldn't help smiling. He was making progress, and soon he'd have Heero right where he wanted him.

xXxXxXx

Harry woke up and stretched. He turned onto his side and slid his glasses onto his nose. A wide grin stretched across his face. Everything was so clear! He could hardly believe it, and his headaches were gone! He hadn't even known they were there until the dull throbbing went away. He felt light and happy, especially when he remembered what day it was. Today was the day! After almost three weeks of practice, Trowa said they were ready to perform for the others.

Practically bursting with energy, he flew into some clothes and raced into the kitchen. No one was up yet, except Wufei who liked to go through his katas in the park before breakfast. Harry bit his lip, considering. He wasn't allowed to use knives or the stove without supervision, but he was too hyped up to wait. It wasn't like he wasn't used to cooking unsupervised, anyway. He never had help at the Dursley's. Decided, he raided the fruit bowl and took out a small knife to make a fruit salad. He was sure his brothers wouldn't be mad when they saw how well he did.

He was just finishing up when Heero walked in. His smile froze as those sharp blue eyes moved from the large bowl of freshly cut fruit to the knife in Harry's hand. Harry gulped, cold dread settling like led in his stomach as Heero stared at him hard.

"What are you doing?"

"I, I…" His heart was racing so fast that he couldn't catch his breath. The knife clattered onto the counter, falling from his shaking hand. "S-s-sorry! I was… j-just…"

Heero strode forward, and Harry flinched, mind screaming in panic, only to gasp in surprise when Heero crouched and pulled him into a rough hug. "Hush. I'm not going to hurt you. I'm mad that you broke the rules, but I won't hit you, Harry. We don't hit here."

Harry nodded and forced the fear back as he rested his head on Heero's shoulder. "Sorry."

Heero pushed Harry to arm's length so he could see his face. "You know to wait for us. Why didn't you?"

"I, I… because… I… j-just…" Harry stuttered, tears of frustration and lingering fear spilling down his cheeks.

"Breathe, and tell me what you were thinking," Heero instructed.

Harry closed his eyes, balled his fists, and forced the fear away with a scowl. Heero wasn't going to hurt him; he knew that! "I can do it by myself! I know how to cook. I did it all the time without help before. I wanted to show you I could. I'm not going to wreck the food. I'm very careful! I don't want to be a burden. You don't have to watch me all the time. I'm not going to mess up."

"We don't think you're going to mess up, Harry-chan."

His eyes snapped open to see Duo standing behind Heero, looking down at him with a sad smile. Harry hated that he had upset everyone. He wanted to do good, to be helpful, but he was always messing up no matter how hard he tried!

"Harry, listen to me," Heero said firmly, grabbing Harry's attention. "We want you to wait because we are worried you'll get hurt. We don't think you'll mess up, but accidents can happen. Even Duo burns stuff sometimes."

"That's true." Duo smiled ruefully, linking his hands behind his head.

"We'd feel bad if something happened and you got hurt. We want to keep you safe," Heero continued, running his fingers down Harry's damp cheek. "Do you understand?"

"Besides, we like spending time with you. It's fun!" Duo exclaimed, kneeling and wrapping his arms around both Harry and Heero. "Isn't that right?"

"Baka," Heero growled.

Harry hid a smile against Heero's neck.

"So wait for us next time, 'kay, kiddo?" Duo nosed Harry's cheek, making the boy giggle.

Harry lifted his head, smiling, and looked into both Duo and Heero's eyes. "I promise I will. I won't do it again."

"Good." Duo nodded firmly. "Cause we're just doing our jobs. You gotta let us take care of you."

"You broke the rules, so no feeding Simba and the other animals today or tomorrow," Heero added.

Harry ducked his head to hide his distress. He knew he deserved to be punished. He had broken the rules even if he hadn't meant to. He'd just thought… Well, it didn't matter what he'd thought. And, really, he wasn't upset about the punishment. He was sad he wouldn't get to see Simba or the other animals, but he'd see them in two days. That wasn't very long. What was really upsetting him was the fact that he'd disappointed Heero.

"I'm really, really sorry, brother Heero," he whispered, feeling miserable.

Harry gasped as he was suddenly lifted into the air by strong hands and placed on a hip. He stared at Heero in surprise, holding on tight with his arms and legs.

"I'm not mad. It was a mistake. We talked about it, and now it's over," Heero stated and moved to the refrigerator. He opened it and grabbed both the milk jug handle and the juice container with one hand.

Duo clapped from his position sitting on the counter next to the bowl of fruit salad. "Let's see your skills, Hee-chan! A one-armed cook off!"

"Think I can do it?" Heero asked Harry, eyes twinkling.

"Yeah! You can do anything!" Harry exclaimed, hugging Heero's neck tighter and feeling happy that his brother wasn't going to put him down.

Duo laughed loudly. "Hear that, Hee-chan? You can do anything!"

"Not anything," Heero muttered, focusing on gathering bowls and utensils to cook with.

Harry bit his lip in worry, not liking Heero's dark tone. Gone was the playfulness from just a moment before. "I can help, brother Heero. Or you can put me down now. I don't mind."

"I've got you," Heero countered, holding Harry even closer. "Would you like pancakes?"

"Okay," Harry accepted. He studied the side of his brother's face. "Are you mad at me?"

"He's not mad," Duo promised and threw a piece of apple at Heero's head.

Heero sidestepped it easily and glared at the grinning teen, but Duo didn't even twitch. Duo amazed Harry. He was always doing and saying anything he wanted, and it didn't scare him with the others sometimes got mad or annoyed. Harry hoped he could be just as brave one day.

"He's just shy," Duo continued, unaware of Harry's thoughts. "Like how you get embarrassed when we say nice things about you. Hee-chan get's embarrassed, too."

Harry considered this for a moment as Heero began to pour the ingredients in a mixing bowl. "Dr. Bohren says I need to be more accepting of compliments. She says if I'm going to believe the bad things people say about me, then I have to be ready to believe the good things they might say, too."

"That's some mighty fine advice." Duo threw another piece of fruit.

This time Heero batted it away with the spoon. The sharp motion sent semi-moist batter flying, and it splattered Duo's shirt and chin. Harry stared with wide eyes.

Duo laughed. "Good shot!"

"Baka," Heero grumbled, but Harry could see that his eyes were happy again, even if his expression didn't show it.

Harry smiled, glad Heero wasn't mad anymore. "Do you think I can braid my hair yet?" he asked Duo hopefully.

Duo jumped off the counter. "Let's see." He ran his hands through Harry's hair. "I don't think I can braid it, but I think we can get most of this into a short ponytail if you want. Would you like that?"

"Yes, please!"

"I'll go get a tie. Be right back!" Duo yelled in a singsong as he skipped from the kitchen.

"Hold this steady," Heero asked, and Harry quickly reached down to hold the bowl.

Heero began mixing more vigorously. Soon the batter was creamy enough to pour into the pan. As Heero one-handedly poured and flipped pancakes, Duo brushed Harry's messy hair. Dark strands still fell over Harry's forehead and around his cheeks and ears, but most of it was pulled into a short tail at the back of his head. Harry pushed his glasses higher up his nose and smiled shyly at his big brother.

"Is it okay?"

"It looks really cute!" Duo promised and flashed him the V sign for victory. "Definitely your style."

"Really?" Harry turned to Heero for confirmation.

"It's acceptable," Heero answered easily. He set Harry on his feet and handed him two plates of pancakes. "Take these to the table."

"Kay!" Harry happily carried the food to the table.

Wufei was the only one there. His teacher was again wearing the wire-framed glasses he'd picked out when Harry had chosen his, and Harry smiled wide at the sight. Wufei had said he was due for a newer pair and was actually glad for the opportunity to buy some. Harry wasn't sure if he believed him all the way, but it did make him feel good that Wufei wore glasses, too. It made him feel special now that he had something in common with his smart big brother.

"We're back," Quatre called as he stepped inside the pavilion. "Good morning, Harry."

"Good morning! I made fruit salad and brother Heero made the pancakes!" His smile fell as he caught sight of Trowa. "I'm sorry, brother Trowa, but I can't feed the animals with you today or tomorrow because… I was bad. I… I cut the fruit by myself."

Quatre knelt down, concerned. "Did you apologize?"

"Yes, sir!"

"And you'll be more careful to follow the rules next time?"

"Yes, sir!" he exclaimed again, eyes wide.

"Then it's okay. You learned your lesson." Quatre smiled gently and tugged on Harry's bangs. "There's nothing to be mad about, you silly boy."

Harry smiled back, basking in his forgiveness. "Love you," he whispered.

"Love you, too," Quatre whispered back, making Harry's stomach flutter. He still wasn't used to hearing that.

His smile dimmed, however, when he turned to look up at Trowa. "Are you mad?"

"Simba will miss you," Trowa answered. "But I'm glad you'll be safe in the kitchen."

Harry hugged his waist, leaning into the hand Trowa settled on his head. "I won't do it again," he promised, looking up at both Trowa and Quatre. "I promise."

"Come on, it's gunna get cold!" Duo exclaimed as he flopped down next to Heero, across from Wufei.

Harry blushed and hurried into his spot, hoping he hadn't ruined breakfast for everyone.

"It's good," Wufei complimented.

"They'd be even better cut into cool shapes, but Heero over here didn't think that was necessary," Duo complained, huffing his bangs into the air.

"Their shape does not affect their nutritious value," Heero pointed out, voice monotone.

"You can always draw a face with the syrup," Quatre suggested as he passed over the strawberry flavored one.

"Great idea, Cat!" Duo snagged the syrup and began to draw.

"It's not proper to play with one's food," Wufei said sternly, narrowing his eyes in warning.

Duo stuck his tongue out. "Lighten up, Wu-man! They say you are what you eat. Your food could use a happy face!"

Quatre laughed.

"You should draw an adult on yours," Heero said with a smirk.

"Nah. That's no fun." Duo winked and tilted his plate so Harry could see the cross-eyed, grinning vampire on his pancake.

Harry covered his mouth to hide his giggle, looking up at Wufei uncertainly.

Wufei sighed and turned his attention back to his breakfast, allowing Harry to smile more openly.

By the time breakfast was done, Harry's excitement was back full force. He tripped all over himself as he scrambled outside with Trowa. His tummy bubbled and fluttered with nerves. He wanted to be perfect. He wanted to show his big brothers how grateful he was and make them happy. They'd had so much fun going to see the circus show, and Harry hoped they'd have just as much fun today. Their little show wasn't much. He knew he wasn't nearly as good as the performers in the circus, but it was the only thing he could give them.

"You'll do fine," Trowa promised confidently. "Do your stretches while I feed the animals. Don't start practicing until I can spot you."

"Yes, sir." Harry had no intention of disobeying again and messing this up.

xXxXxXx

Heero had gone out to the Preventer's HQ, and Wufei was working on creating lesson plans and tests for Harry. That left Quatre and Duo with the domestic chores. Quatre eyed his friend's smug smirk suspiciously as they stood side-by-side at the sink, washing dishes. His empathy revealed a tangle of emotions, the most predominant being amusement, excitement, and happiness.

"What?" he finally demanded, propping a soapy hand on his hip.

"Have a good night last night?" Duo asked sweetly.

Quatre cocked his eyebrow curiously. "Trowa said you knew before he left that I had something planned. How?"

"Oh come on, Cat!" Duo laughed and blew soap suds at his face. "You just happened to work so late that everyone went home? You're the king of planning. The only reason no one would be around to bring you home is because you wanted it that way, and I can think of only one reason why you would want Trowa to come pick you up."

Quatre blushed as his friend leered at him. King of plans, huh? He decided to instigate a diversionary tactic. "And that has you feeling happy and excited?" He made a tisking noise. "What will Heero think?"

Duo shook his head, amused. "He'd probably list off statistics for teenage voyeurism."

"Probably," Quatre agreed with a laugh.

They washed in silence for a few minutes, but the stupid grin was still plastered over Duo's face. "So," he ventured, debating on whether or not it would be crossing a line if he asked further.

Duo looked over and then away. He didn't say anything until they were almost done. "I think we're getting closer to working out how we feel. I mean, Heero's not exactly well-versed in relationships, but we're having fun figuring it out."

Quatre grinned. "You are, anyway."

"Oh, trust me," Duo drawled, smirking. "Heero's not suffering."

"I'm sure." He elbowed his friend in the ribs. "So you're happy?"

Duo nodded. "Yeah. Yeah, I am. I feel… like I'm finding what I've been missing all these years. Someone who can fill the dark spots."

"I'm glad," Quatre said sincerely.

"What about you?" Duo turned toward him, tossing the drying towel over his shoulder. "How are you and Tro?"

Quatre began to put the dishes away, thinking. "There's no such thing as perfect, but… It's as close to perfect as any relationship can be, I think. We still have a lot to learn about each other, but we're happy. I'm beyond lucky to have Trowa in my life, let alone as my lover. He's an incredible person.

Duo wagged his eyebrows with a crooked smile. "Incredibly sexy, you mean."

"Watch it. He's mine," Quatre mock-growled.

Duo held his hands up in surrender, laughing. "All yours. Got it."

He broke into laughter, too. He felt light and free for what felt like the first time in five months. It was as if all the darkness in the world had been banished. "I'm going to get a shower and change. Afterward, can you help me set up the video recorder?"

"Course," Duo agreed, bouncing on his toes. He was about as excited as Harry, causing Quatre to laugh helplessly, their combined cheer tickling his insides.

xXxXxXx

Cathy was pleased that Trowa had suggested they get dressed in her trailer, even if it was only because he and Harry didn't want the others to see them before it was time. Harry was still shy and timid around her, but today his excitement gave him courage. He sat without coaxing and let her paint his face. His fear made her feel terrible. She could only hope that one day he'd be able to forgive her for her careless mistake.

Cathy examined his face, his green eyes big and hopeful, and smiled. "All done!"

Harry practically ran to the full length mirror she had hanging on the wall. He squealed in excitement as soon as he caught sight of his reflection. "Thank you, Miss Cathy!"

Trowa winked at her as he zipped up his own costume. He wore semi-loose brown coveralls with a grainy pattern that made him look like a tree. Leaves hung off his arms and down his shins, while Harry wore a leopard print leotard. A hood with cat ears covered his hair and a long tail hung from his lower back. His hands were covered with special gloves and slippers that would help him grip the mat better, as well as looking like cat paws.

She'd painted whiskers and a cat nose on his face, adding a few more spots here and there. He wasn't wearing his glasses; he was nearsighted so there was no danger in not wearing them, whereas they might fall off and distract him if he did. So his big green eyes were left uncovered. He looked absolutely adorable.

"You look perfect!" she exclaimed. "I'll go check to make sure the stage is set. Come out in fifteen, okay?"

"Okay." Harry gave a firm nod and looked at the old clock. "We'll be ready."

Cathy had to stop herself from reaching out to the adorable kid. Instead she gave them her biggest smile and headed out. Trowa had picked a spot not far from their pavilion. Quatre, Wufei, and Duo had been busy all morning setting up the tumbling mats, the stereo, and the painted forest backdrop that the circus had had among its props.

Five folding chairs were set a few feet in front of the makeshift stage; four for the guys and one for her. On a tripod sat a digital camera. Apparently, Harry had a thing with video cameras for some reason, but the small high-tech model Quatre had bought hadn't bothered him too much and he'd agreed to let them film the show.

"Hey, Cathy! Are they about ready?" Duo called with a wave.

"Yeah. Is everything set up?" she asked as she moved to the stereo to check for herself it was working.

"We're good to go," Quatre remarked, smiling.

He had his shirt sleeves rolled up to his elbows and his cheeks were flushed from the work. He looked really good. Cathy blushed, and Quatre's smile softened, his eyes sparkling knowingly, which only made her blush burn hotter. She hurried away, toward Wufei. "Is Heero back yet?"

"I'm here."

She turned to see the intense teen walking toward them and smiled. "Good. We're ready. Everyone take your seats!"

The five of them settled on the chairs. Cathy looked at her watch. Two minutes.

"So any hints?" Duo asked leadingly, leaning toward her.

Cathy smirked. "You'll see."

One minute.

"I'm so excited! Make sure the camera's working." Duo wiggled in his seat, unable to sit still and making Cathy laugh.

"It's fine," Quatre assured his friend.

Thirty seconds.

Cathy lifted the remote to the stereo and pressed play. Classical music filled the area, violins and flutes swirling in an energetic melody. A panel of the backdrop opened and Tree-Trowa entered. He moved to center stage and began to slowly run through several poses that displayed his phenomenal flexibility and balance. Duo wolf-whistled and Cathy snickered at the blush that stained Quatre's cheeks. Revenge was sweet.

Trowa lifted his leg behind him straight up, making his body a sideways T, before lifting his torso and holding his foot behind his head. He held this pose as Kitten-Harry came bounding onto the scene, a piano entering the symphony. The little boy dove forward and tucked his body into a ball. He rolled around Trowa in a perfect circle before coming to his feet.

Trowa changed poses, this time pulling his leg out to the side and up, like one half of a Y. Harry circled him again, this time by performing perfect front walkovers. Again he came to a stop directly in front of Trowa. Trowa switched legs, forming the other half of the Y, and Harry followed the leg movement, batting at him playfully with his gloved paws. Then he twirled, hands reaching above his head and circled Trowa a third time, this time doing back walkovers.

As Harry came center again, Duo and Quatre clapped wildly. Even from her seat, she could see the little boy flush.

Harry crouched and pushed up into a head stand, back facing the audience, stomach to Trowa. He held the position and Trowa's leg came down and he went into a chair pose. Harry's feet came down and braced on Trowa's thighs. The little boy straightened his arms with force, bending his knees at the same time, and pushed his body up and back so that he ended up crouching on Trowa's thighs.

Duo cheered and even she was impressed. That wasn't an easy move.

Trowa held his arms straight out in front of him on either side of Harry's small body.

Cathy's eyes widened as Harry used Trowa's arms as if they were parallel bars. He pushed himself up, allowing Trowa to stand straight, lifting Harry even further off the ground. Slowly, gracefully, Harry lifted his legs and pulled them up to his body before shifting his weight forward. Trowa tilted his head back so the boy's feet missed him, and then Harry was doing a handstand on Trowa's outstretched arms.

Both Trowa and Harry were trembling faintly. A glance to the side showed Quatre and Duo looked a little nervous, their eyes wide as they watched. Heero and Wufei were hard to read, their expressions so carefully blank. She turned her eyes forward to see Harry was lowering his feet and shifting his weight back so that he now had them braced on Trowa's shoulders. Trowa lifted his arms while Harry simultaneously pushed off and came to a stand.

Even Cathy felt her heart pump as Harry placed his hands on Trowa's head and slowly went into another handstand. The music rushed and danced, creating a counter point to the slow, deliberate moves of the performers and creating tension. The little boy held himself in a perfect line as Trowa slowly bent forward at the waist, continuing to look out, and lifted his left leg out behind him. She held her breath, terrified Harry would fall. Trowa's chest came vertical and Harry's legs fell down one at a time until he was standing in the center of Trowa's back, grinning widely as Trowa held the sideways T position.

Trowa's leg bent so his foot came back toward the little boy, and Harry grasped it as Trowa dipped his torso forward, making Harry hang by his hands. The little cat-boy did a few leg poses going from a spread eagle to jack knife to a front split before Trowa came up again so Harry could stand once more. The music went into a sudden crescendo as Harry did a flip over Trowa's head and landed facing the audience before falling back into a backward summersault. He came out of it, standing directly in front of Trowa, who grabbed him around the waist and easily hefted him so the boy was sitting on his shoulder. The music stopped and Harry waved, visibly panting.

Duo leapt to his feet, hollering and cheering. Quatre stood and clapped just as enthusiastically. Even Heero and Wufei were standing as they applauded the show.

"Harry that was incredible!" Cathy exclaimed, clapping with the others. "You'd be the star of the circus if you performed at the main tent!"

Trowa set the boy down carefully, and Harry was mobbed by Duo and Quatre. Cathy snuck away from the group and detached the camera, lifting it to her eye so she could get them on tape.

"You were great! I've never seen anything like it! Damn, kiddo!" Duo lifted Harry in his arms and spun him around.

Harry laughed. "Did you really like it?"

"Like it? It was fucking fantastic!"

"You looked so beautiful up there! And your costume is adorable," Quatre gushed taking his turn to hug the little boy and kissing his cheek.

"For someone who only started tumbling two months ago, you did an outstanding job," Wufei complimented. "You have real talent."

Harry turned in Quatre's arms so he could see them, happy tears glittering in his eyes. "I tried really hard."

"You were exceptional," Heero praised and accepted the little boy into his arms.

Harry hugged him tightly around his neck. "You really think so?"

"I really think so," Heero assured him.

Cathy shifted the camera to her brother as Duo flung an arm around Trowa's shoulders, grinning.

"You were great, too, Tro-baby! Nice moves, man."

"You were beautiful," Quatre said, kissing his lover on the cheek.

Trowa smiled and slipped an arm around the blond's waist, pulling him to his side.

"Who wants to watch it again on TV?" Duo asked loudly, jumping up and down as he clapped his hands.

"I do!" Harry yelled back.

Cathy laughed and turned the camera over to the exuberant teen. Duo cackled madly and ran for their pavilion. Heero followed at a more normal pace, still carrying Harry.

"I bet we'll be watching that a lot from now on," Quatre said with a rueful smile, leaning into Trowa's side, heedless of his sweaty form.

"You guys go on. I'll clean up here," Cathy ordered, shooing them away with a big smile.

"I'll help," Wufei offered.

"Okay. Thanks, Wufei," she accepted.

As they detached the mats and folded up the panels for the backdrop, Cathy could hear the shouts and laughs coming from the group inside the pavilion. She smiled widely, feeling like things might actually work out after all. Harry was recovering from what had been done to him, and her brother was happier than she'd ever seen him.

She would always be there for Trowa, but she'd come to terms with the understanding that she couldn't give him what he needed. Too much missing time lay between them and their life experiences were just so different. She felt like she could finally be at peace now that Trowa had finally found a family to call his own.

Chapter end. Please review!

A/N: I don't know much about acrobatics/tumbling/gymnastics. I'm not even 100% certain what the difference is between them. I'm afraid that the show Harry put on would be beyond what could be expected of him after only two month of practice. On the other hand, he's been working with Trowa for at least three hours every day, and then they spent the last 3 weeks specifically working on the routine, so I thought maybe it could be believable. Hopefully you all agree with me! If not, just chalk it up to Trowa being an exceptional teacher. LOL!