A/N: Thanks to everyone who followed, favourited and reviewed! It makes me very happy!

I'm late once again and I'm sorry for that. But I'll be posting one more chapter today! It was originally supposed to be one chapter, but it got freakishly long (over 20K words) so I decided to split it. If only I knew sooner...

Enjoy!

We are all mistaken sometimes; sometimes we do wrong things, things that have bad consequences. But it does not mean we are evil, or that we cannot be trusted ever afterward. ― Alison Croggon

Would 'sorry' have made any difference? Does it ever? It's just a word. One word against a thousand actions. ― Sarah Ockler, Bittersweet

The most authentic thing about us is our capacity to create, to overcome, to endure, to transform, to love and to be greater than our suffering. ― Ben Okri

My parents danced together, her head on his chest. Both had their eyes closed. They seemed so perfectly content. If you can find someone like that, someone who you can hold and close your eyes to the world with, then you're lucky. Even if it only lasts for a minute or a day. The image of them gently swaying to the music is how I picture love in my mind even after all these years. ― Patrick Rothfuss, The Name of the Wind

You don't love someone because they're perfect, you love them in spite of the fact that they're not. ― Jodi Picoult, My Sister's Keeper

In the morning Aya was lying in her bed a bit longer than usual, just staring into the ceiling and thinking about how to behave. Her father invaded her home without a previous notice. She thought back to the list of missed calls she'd gone through in the camp. He did call you for some reason… She didn't want him there; that was for sure, but...

'I'm not asking you to forgive him, but he's regretting it.' Kyou's words rang in the back of her mind. Could he have had it right? No. It was impossible for Haruka to change just like that. And after that talk with Kyou she felt she was over it. But was she really? She didn't know.

"Urgh…" She groaned and rolled in her bed several times. She hadn't expected this. She was looking forward to seeing Daiki, not dealing with Haruka, and whatever he might've wanted…

No… Don't even think of giving him another chance. He'll only hurt you again.

Maybe if she tried to view him as a random unknown person… If she thought that Haruka was a traveller, a stranger, a guest coming to her house, because he had nowhere else to stay. That might work. Sure, there were Katsunori and Hiroto and hotels, but… She didn't stay in a hotel in L.A. either, although she could have. She didn't love him, she didn't trust him, but she wouldn't kick him out. Yet. As long as he behaved.

'A guest coming into house – God coming into house. They bring luck, and we have to treat them well. Like a family.' Was that what you've always said, mom? Well… Let's hope I won't throw a knife at him.

With another discontented grunt she rolled off the bed and went to check out if there was any food in the fridge. She was the first one up, like always, and as she'd suspected – the fridge was empty, and there was nothing she could use to patch up some edible breakfast. They'd been away for weeks, no wonders there was nothing to eat. But at least she had some coffee – considerably less than what she remembered leaving – so she could make a pot of coffee for everyone.

Haruka, woken by sounds in the kitchen, crawled out of his bed to see who it was. It didn't surprise him it was Aya. He watched her turning on the coffee machine, the radio, then grinding the coffee beans… She wasn't making coffee just for herself. That surprised him. She had her back to him, so he hadn't greeted her right away and now he felt like an idiot.

"Uhm, morning…" He said finally.

"Shit!" She jumped and dropped a coffee mug she was holding. Thankfully, it didn't break.

"I didn't mean to startle you…" He mumbled and rubbed his stubble.

She picked up the mug and turned to face him. Her eyes were burning with suppressed anger and not suppressed hurt and betrayal she couldn't bottle up well enough. "Sure, that's why you creep up on me." She commented with hostility lacing her voice.

Still, she couldn't believe she was seeing Haruka with stubble, wearing sweatpants and a loose crooked t-shirt. In the past years she'd only gotten to see him in spotless suits, clean shaven and with his hair combed back. Just what on earth was going on?

"…" He came closer and sat on a bar chair so the narrow table was strategically between them. She made a grimace, showing she wasn't pleased by this. Her scarred shoulder wasn't covered and the cuts on her leg were still visible. Already healed, but the skin was still pinkish and scabbed here and there. He frowned deeply at that. As if he hadn't realised how bad it had been before.

He said nothing, and neither did she. He was staring at his intertwined fingers resting on the table; he wanted to talk with her, yet he didn't even know where to start. His tongue felt like lead and the animosity she was emanating wasn't making it easier.

After a moment of silence she roughly put a filled coffee mug in front of him, almost spilling some of its deliciously smelling contents. "If you decide to raid my coffee reserves again, buy new ones. It's not gonna magically refill itself."

"Huh?" He blinked at her. "You're not throwing me away?" He blurted out spontaneously. After what Taiga had told him the previous night he thought she would do that immediately. She was the one who really had a reason to hate him. The one he feared to face the most, yet that was exactly the reason he came back.

"A guest coming into house – God coming into house." She told him in French, noticing how he flinched at hearing the mother tongue of his dead wife. "I can't when she's there." She pointed towards the photo of Keiko displayed in their library. "But don't be mistaken. I don't want you here any more than Taiga." No, she wouldn't get angry. She had no reason to argue with him anymore or to ruin her mood.

He nodded and avoided her eyes. "Can we talk?" He asked carefully.

"I'm not doing the work again. And there's nothing else to talk about." She said with a note of finality in her voice.

This was so difficult. He bit his tongue. If Taiga could make him angry, his girl could make him feel like a beaten dog. His heart was breaking over again. Aya's calm rejection and resignation was much worse than any blaming she could've brought up. Especially after all those e-mails she'd sent; where she'd been trying to reach out to him. She was clearly done with that. And so, he had to say it… He needed to see if he could get some reaction from her other than this… "I want to apologise to you. So… can you at least listen to what I have to say?"

She froze and looked at him. This time, he didn't avert his gaze. There was determination burning in his eyes and it was intense. She knew her father was a stubborn man and once he set his mind on something, he usually achieved it. But him apologising? She was looking for any sign of an ulterior motive, but she saw none. However, because she couldn't see it, didn't mean it wasn't there. And what was one apology against thousand actions? It bore no weight whatsoever.

Aya blinked and shook her head with an incredulous chuckle. "Don't waste your breath. There are no words that can mend 8 years. We're good on our own. Just go home and continue your life like I don't exist. Shouldn't be difficult for you…" For a moment she thought he'd lash out at her, but he just gritted his teeth and looked into his coffee with a stubborn scowl. She shrugged and turned away, walking towards Taiga's room. If he gets discouraged just by this, he's not worth it.

She clapped her hands loudly. "Rise and shine, Tai!" She shouted. "If we want to eat we need to go shopping and I'm gonna need your help."

######

"He is going on a date with Aya-chan." Michiko said casually after they woke up much later than usual. It was a rare occasion they both had a free day at the same time, although they were always trying to sync their schedules.

And the Aomine family could enjoy sleeping in once in a while. All of them. Dogs included (after they got their early walk they went right back to sleep). And Daiki was catching up with the sleepless nights he'd had in the camp. So Michiko wasn't rushing with preparing breakfast.

"Mhm… Good for him." Daisuke murmured, still half asleep and rolled around, pulling his wife into his embrace and burying his nose in her hair.

"You still haven't talked with him." She continued.

He sighed. "I talked with him about the camp and all…"

"The condoms." She said through her teeth, getting annoyed by her husband's avoidance.

That woke him up better than any alarm clock. "Eeerr…"

"Today. You'll give it to him today. Before he leaves for the date."

He groaned. This was one responsibility of parenting he'd rather give to somebody else. "They're going out. Out. He won't need them. Not today, and probably not anytime too soon…"

"We were teenagers too, don't be too naïve, dear… And it's better to be safe than sorry. So. Today. No excuses."

Daisuke was quiet but she could feel him rolling his eyes and coming up with hundreds of excuses why he should postpone it in his head. He wouldn't argue with her though.

She grinned. She loved her man so much, everything about him. "Man up, daddy." She teased.

"What did you just say?" He asked and started a tickle war.

######

The atmosphere at the Kagami's apartment was tense. It was Sunday which was a free day for everyone. The twins decided to tidy up the apartment, getting rid of the dust that settled during their absence. They worked well, splitting the duties and cooperating, while occasionally barking at one another and arguing over stupidities and then making up right away.

Haruka just watched from the couch. The twins completely ignored him, he didn't want to get in their way and there was nothing he could do. Moreover, he wasn't someone to ask for some housework he could do. Sure, he had helped Keiko around the house in the past, but… after her death, he'd gotten used to Gabriela and Ivan taking care of everything around the house. He'd thought it was the same with his kids that there was someone coming to clean up the apartment and do the cooking; he believed they paid a housekeeper… It surprised him he'd been wrong. The two were unbelievably self-sufficient for the rich kids that could buy about anything. Just where the hell was I?

Aya was cleaning the kitchen when her phone chimed and she read the message. Her face lit up with a bright smile and she squealed.

"What?!" Taiga was immediately in the room with a slight worry. When he saw Aya's delighted expression he scowled at her. "Dammit! Wanna cause me a heart attack!" He huffed. "So? What's up?"

Insulted by his reaction she stuck out her tongue. "Won't say."

He was obviously curious now. "Urgh, come on! You startled the shit out of me… What is it?"

Her smile widened. "Kiku and Wakamatsu-senpai are finally an official thing! I mean! Thank gods!"

"Heh? With that loudmouth?" He blinked in surprise. Sure, he'd heard things from Aya, but he didn't care that much. Kiku was Aya's friend and he'd met her only a few times. And except that one match he'd lost, he didn't know Wakamatsu either.

"Tch… He isn't that loud, and he's exactly someone to balance her shyness. And besides… He's a good and honest guy. I wasn't sure when they returned, they were a bit… introverting I guess. But I'm glad it turned out well."

She had kindness in her eyes and Taiga knew she was genuinely happy for her friend. Honestly, he was too. From Aya's talking, he assumed the little girl deserved to be happy. Just like his sister, so… "Maybe he'll be too distracted to go all out in the Winter cup?"

Aya laughed. "I wouldn't rely on that. His girlfriend will be watching and cheering, he can't afford to slack off. And trust me; Kiku already knows almost everything about our team."

"You're participating in the Winter cup?" Haruka spoke up in surprise, staring at Taiga. He hadn't watched the DVD of Seirin vs. Touou in the end.

"Huh?" Taiga blinked at him. With the good news and Aya's excitement he'd forgotten about their old man sitting right there. "Yeah, we both are, so? It's not like you care."

"Goddammit, I do care!" He flared up. Short temper sure ran in the family. But then he bit his lip guiltily; he didn't want to shout at them like he was the hurt one.

The twins exchanged surprised glances. They didn't recognize the man anymore.

"Mmhhmmm… suddenly…" Aya hummed.

"I wonder for how long…" Taiga echoed bitingly.

"Until I'll kick the bucket." He said stubbornly with a firm resolve in his voice.

There was a dead silence for a moment. Then the teenagers shook their heads, shrugged and continued with their tasks quietly. They didn't know what to think about Haruka's behaviour anymore. They wondered if the man meant it or not, or how long it would take for him to lose interest again, or to give up, because that's what they expected and they surely weren't welcoming him warmly.

Haruka saw they didn't trust him or his words. Those were just words… But he refused to give up again. His jaw tightened and he looked away.

######

Two hours before Daiki was supposed to meet Aya, he had no real idea where they'd go or what they'd do. He was excited, but it felt weird too. It was their first official date. Not like it changed anything, but… The first official date! What should he wear?

For a moment he was considering calling Kise, but then he refused to get the blonde involved. Or anyone else. This was no one's business but his. The questions remained, though. What to wear? Where to go? Aya hadn't sent him a single message since the previous day. He only knew the time and place of their meeting, and that was it. He didn't message her first because he didn't want to look like an overexcited kid… Now he wasn't sure if he shouldn't worry…

"Urgh…" She'd seen you in underwear, and pyjamas, and a sweated through jersey after a match… She probably doesn't care. But the word "date" made it all new. He rubbed his face and Shiro walked up to him staring at him with her intelligent black eyes. There was something weird going on with him, she was sure of that. She nudged his arm with her nose to get some attention. Daiki sighed and buried his hands in the thick fur on Shiro's neck. "I'm getting pathetic, eh girl?"

She made a strange sound and wagged her tail. Then she made the usual greeting sound and Daiki looked up to see whom she was greeting. His father was standing in his door, casually leaning against the doorframe with his arms crossed over his chest. There was something mischievous in Daisuke's eyes, and he wasn't sure he liked that.

"Hm?" He raised his chin in a question.

Daisuke shrugged. "I brought you a pre-birthday gift." He grinned and threw him a small box. "Just in case." After he'd thought about it, he got unimaginably curious about Daiki's reaction. And then, suddenly, Michiko's idea wasn't all that embarrassing.

It was a small box. And he had to catch it before Shiro would. "Oi. Stop it!" He warned her and waited until Shiro calmed down. Only then he looked at what it was.

It took him a few seconds of blank staring at the thing he'd caught until he realised what he was holding. His whole face flared up, going red from his neck to the tips of his ears. "Fuck!" He threw the pack of condoms across the room and it bounced off the wall and landed on his desk.

Daisuke started laughing. His son, mortified like that… It was priceless.

Shiro made a gurgling sound and stared at him with a doggish scowl. He'd startled her with that reaction. First he hadn't let her catch it, and now he threw it away?! She wanted to explore the flying thing, but it was on the desk – a no dog area – so she couldn't get to it.

Daiki grumbled and hid his face in his hands. "What the hell…?" He asked accusingly.

"Did you want mom to give it to you?"

The annoyed glare was completely ineffective when he was blushing like that and it only made his dad laugh more.

"Can't imagine you buying some on your own just yet." Daisuke calmed a bit and wiped the tears of laughter that formed in the corners of his eyes. "We thought it was a good idea you had some, now that you two are actually dating."

Daiki peeked at him, then glanced at the condoms on his desk and then rubbed his face again. This was so damn embarrassing. He didn't think that far yet… Well… maybe, but it was just his imagination. The 'gift' turned it into a possibility. That was quite a difference. And his thoughts were taking the best of him. He wasn't even sure how to face Aya about this; he probably wouldn't…

Daisuke cleared his throat; he could almost see what was going on in Daiki's head. "Well, I hope I don't have to explain what it is and how to use it. But do your studying, and get used to the idea you will need it and you will wear it. And then, use it, when you get that far. No excuses. No matter how tempting." He assumed the youngsters these days knew about all that. And he really didn't feel like giving a demonstration on how to use a condom to his son. There were some boundaries, he wouldn't cross. He sighed and rubbed the back of his neck. "Though I'm definitely not pushing you into anything. Take your time, and talk with Aya-chan too. If you can't even do that, don't go having sex yet."

Daiki was still bright red and not looking at him, so Daisuke shrugged. It was enough bonding for a day… Or two, or until Daiki would look at him again after this mortification.

But he couldn't omit another teasing jab. "Good luck on your date, Mr. Lucky. And don't wear cargo pants."

"Get out!" Daiki growled, seriously considering throwing a basketball lying on the ground at his father. The ball was temptingly close and his aim was beyond perfect. And what was wrong with cargo pants? They were comfy and practical!

######

Taiga was aware of the date. He was also aware that Haruka didn't know and Aya wasn't planning to tell him. It was honestly a weird situation. With a sigh he knocked on Aya's door. She'd retreated into her room some time ago and he wanted to know if he should serve as her alibi or something… They'd made no deals previously.

Instead of calling him in like she used to, she slowly opened the door and peeked outside carefully. When she was sure Haruka was nowhere near, she pulled Taiga in and slammed the door.

He blinked in surprise. "What the…" There were several dresses and some shorts and tops lying on her bed and chair and floor.

She was in her underwear and she looked at him with those desperate eyes, now more red than brown. "What do I wear?" She asked him.

He facepalmed. Since when did his sister care, or since when was she nervous because of a date or because of meeting up with Aomine? "It's Aomine, for god's sake. You were making out last I checked. What are you nervous about?"

"It's a date." She hissed. "A date. The first date." Yeah, maybe Daiki saw her in her underwear… but… It was the first official date. "Urgh!" She groaned irritably. She had no idea what was going on with her today either. It's not like me… "I'm an idiot!"

"That's true." He laughed at her. "Never thought I'd see you like this. Being in love sure does weird things to your brain."

"Oh, I just can't wait until you get there." She jabbed with an eye roll. "Now, stop laughing at me and help me out." She demanded.

"Where are you even going?"

She blinked at him… Now that she thought about it…

Taiga raised an eyebrow. "You don't know?"

She shook her head with wide eyes. It's been so much stuff happening lately, she'd completely forgotten to make any specific plans with Daiki. She just wanted to be in his presence. That was all. Now it freaked her out even more; not knowing…

Taiga sighed. It was still hot outside and if it was a date… Well… She should wear something fancier. Not too much… But… What would I expect? Hmmm… He thought and bent down to rummage through the things she'd already tried. "Dress, skirt or some pants/shorts?" He asked her.

She bit her thumb nail and slumped onto the chair. "Hmmm… A dress? Am I supposed to cover my shoulders or not?" She wasn't sure. Was it okay?

"Huh? Why?"

"Dunno if it's appropriate to have them bare…" She muttered. And those freckles that had showed up the moment she got tanned.

Taiga looked to the heavens. "Since when do you care?" He didn't find anything he'd give her in the pile, although there were some usable dresses but if she'd already refused those clothes… He turned towards the wardrobe and spotted a dress that was just perfect. It still had a tag on it.

She followed his line of sight. "No. I'm not wearing flowers."

"Sunflowers. And not too many." He corrected her. He remembered when she'd been buying it. She hadn't liked it that much in the first place, but the dress fitted perfectly and the shop assistant had persuaded her to buy it. It was a light A line black cotton dress with four spaghetti straps, two at each side. The sunflowers were grouped around the bottom hem and gradually lessening in number and there were none from her waist up. She didn't like flowery patterns and such because she believed her hair colour stood out enough. But this dress actually made her look great. "It just fits you. And it's summer. I like that. Just wear it. It'll cover those pinkish scratches on your thigh too…"

"And the shoulder?" She asked, glancing at her scar.

"Haven't you stopped caring?"

"Around my team…"

"Then the rest of the people you don't even know shouldn't matter at all, right?" He asked and pulled the dress out of her wardrobe.

"I guess…" She stared at the dress as if it was her mortal enemy. "So you say I wear it?"

"Yes. With sandals and some crossbody…"

"And my hair?"

"Let it down."

"At least braid them somehow, so it's out of my face and looks cool." She whined. She would agree to the dress, because Taiga was her beloved fashion advisor whenever she got desperate and he'd never advised her badly. And she could wear whatever. But the hair… She needed to feel comfortable about her hair.

"Do we still have enough time?"

"Yes. An hour and half."

"Okay. Are you planning to put on make-up?"

She bit her lip. "Do you think I should?" Having a brother was sure handy in times like these.

Taiga stared at her. Aya never needed make-up much. Her skin was clean, her lashes were long, thick and dark and her eyes didn't need to be highlighted either. Plus, she was in love, and it made her glow in a way. He shook his head. "You don't need that."

######

Daiki listened to his dad's advice and wore denim shorts and a simple linen shirt with rolled up sleeves. He had no idea when or how the shirt appeared in his wardrobe, especially because it still had a tag – it was a sign he hadn't bought it himself, but he liked the material. And it was loose enough for the high temperature outside. He even wore his leather bracelet wrapped several times around his wrist – the only piece of jewellery he owned because Kise forced it on him.

Michiko praised him when he was on the leave, which made him embarrassed and he hightailed from his house faster than usual.

He was supposed to meet Aya in a park close to their school, so he decided for a walk. He'd still be probably too early, but he couldn't sit at home any longer. He was unusually nervous. Tche… because it's labelled as a 'date'? He wondered and kicked a stone that ended up under his foot.

He felt like an idiot. Never before was he stressed because of meeting Aya. But now she was his girlfriend… Someone he loved. Not just someone he had a crush on. He didn't want to mess up anything again. And that did weird things to his brain. And his dad earlier… He blushed. And then scowled. "Tch."

A lady coming from the opposite direction clutched her bag and quickened her pace. Daiki's scowl and size were enough to put her on alert. He rolled his eyes but tried to make his expression less intimidating. What would she wear? He wondered and hoped he wouldn't look strange next to her.

He was passing by a florist and he stopped.

At first he didn't get why he stopped at the florists. Usually he wouldn't even notice the shop, but something in the back of his mind forced him to do so. He stared at the flowers for a moment and then he remembered:

'If I win, I want you to buy me a flower…'

And he lost that race. He frowned deeply and rubbed his chin. He should keep his promise. But what flowers did she even like? Roses? Nah, that was too much, and she didn't like the scent…

"Good day." A tiny woman in her thirties wearing a dark green apron came out of the shop to help him out.

"Mhm." He nodded in greeting and continued to intensely stare at the flowers.

"Uuuuhmmm…" The woman shifted her weight. The teenager bothered her a bit. If the flowers could run away, they surely would under that stare. "Can I help you somehow?"

"I need a flower." He admitted with a deep sigh.

The woman blinked at him and a smile spread on her face. It was rare seeing a man buying flowers for someone. "For a girlfriend?" She asked.

He blushed and looked away, but nodded.

"A bouquet or a simple flower?"

"Eeer… one flower. Just one…"

"Maybe a rose would be nice."

He felt mortified. But nonetheless he shook his head no. "She probably doesn't like those." He muttered.

"Hmmm…" The woman rubbed her chin in thought. She wanted to help, but she hadn't met a woman who didn't like roses… Interesting. "Then what is she like?"

"…" He continued scanning the flowers, while thinking how to describe Aya to the shopkeeper without embarrassing himself and loosing the rest of dignity he still had. And just like that, he found his flower. "Like that." He pointed at huge sunflowers.

The woman chuckled. The young man was cute. "You want one of those?"

He hid his face in his hand for a moment, too red to face the woman again and took a deep breath. "Yeah. I'll take one."

"Choose the one you want and come inside I'll pack it."

"That one." He pointed at the brightest flower and let the woman take it out. He wasn't sure he could touch it just yet. And feeling like an idiot he followed the woman. "And don't pack it…"

"Are you sure?"

"Mhm…" Everyone would know he had a flower anyways, so what?

She put the flower on her counter with a gentle smile. "You chose a beautiful one, customer-san. She must indeed be someone special."

He nodded, still blushing.

She felt she could try and talk with this originally intimidating teenager. "Do you know what it means? In the language of flowers?"

"Huh? The flowers have a language?" He asked confusedly. He had no idea; he just knew that roses were typically for lovers…

She chuckled warm-heartedly. "If you didn't know then you have a great gut feeling. Sunflowers mean loyalty and adoration, also they are flowers of happiness; they always turn towards the sun, after all." She explained and gently stroked the flower's petals.

The florist was a nice lady; she didn't make him feel overly embarrassed like he'd half expected her to – he did that on his own. He nodded to her explanation and gentle warmth spread through him. So his gut feeling chose well, huh? He paid and left, carefully carrying the single flower he'd promised to buy.

He didn't have to wait more than five minutes until he spotted Aya. She didn't see him just yet. The dress she wore made him chuckle and he quickly hid the flower behind his back. She looked gorgeous with her hair braided like a crown from the front to the back with some loose strands framing her face and falling loosely onto her back. It was free and beautiful, and the hairstyle fitted her perfectly.

And once she noticed him, she smiled brightly; quickly threading her way towards him. Without stopping or any warning, she wrapped her arms around his waist and hugged him tightly. "Hey." She didn't give a damn about PDA at the moment. She needed him. But kissing him out here was too much in her opinion, so…

"Hey." He smiled and hugged her back; all the stress leaving his system in an instant. What was he nervous about anyways? He noticed some disapproving stares, some jealous, some genuinely kind… But he couldn't care less. It wasn't like they were kissing or something.

Aya knew she shouldn't keep at it for too long, even though it was very comfy. And he smelled so damn good. After a moment, when she felt recharged enough, she pulled back with a small blush and a happy smile on her face.

"Recharged." She chuckled, remembering her text.

"Happy to help." He tilted his head with a chuckle. He was keeping the flower from her sight because he wasn't sure how to give it. He'd never given a flower to anyone before… "Uuuhm…"

"What?" She blinked at him curiously. His expression was unusually frown-less and content, but he was also thinking about something deeply. That was suspicious.

"Eeeerr… Well…" He blushed and looked away, keeping the flower behind his back again.

"Hm?" She tilted her head to a side and studied his expression. His blush was so cute she'd grab him and flood him with thousand kisses.

"Tch." He couldn't look at her, but he took out the flower and shoved it towards her. "Here." He mumbled.

"Eeeeh?!" She stared at the flower with wide eyes, she was sure he would conveniently 'forget' their bet. She was happy before, but now she was genuinely shining like a little sun. "For me?" She looked up at him, her eyes asking if she could take it.

He peeked at her and was immediately infatuated. One flower, not decorated in any way, made her that happy? "Mhm." He nodded.

She chuckled and took the flower, spinning with it joyfully. If it was anyone else they'd look silly, but with her moves, she looked simply graceful. She unintentionally matched her dress to the flower. Or he matched the flower to her dress, whatever, she didn't care. The coincidence was amusing. "Thank you!" She pulled him down by his collar and quickly kissed his cheek. This date was exactly what she needed.

"O-oi…" He protested, turning red as the lady passing them by chuckled at the affection, and smiled at the teenagers.

Aya spun around again. Then she stopped and looked him up and down. "Sorry. Can't help it if you look that good."

"Eh?" That was underhanded. And he needed a second to calm down. Then he smirked and the glint in his eyes got dangerous. "What did you…? Y' little." He had no idea what he wanted to do, but throwing her over his shoulder and spinning her around was certainly one of the options once he'd caught her.

She laughed and skipped forward, trying to avoid the possible humiliation. "Come on." She stretched her hand towards him.

The girl was unbelievable. He shook his head and snickered. He gladly took her hand and gave her a gentle squeeze. 'I'll get back at you later…' She squeezed back as if replying to his thought: 'Be my guest…' Her small palm was completely hidden in his, and it felt damn good.

He glanced at her by the corner of his eye and then looked away. She was cute when she was this happy. Because of a single flower. Which he'd bought only because of the bet… "So, where are we going?"

"Eeeh… I haven't thought about that…"

"Me neither."

"Then let's just walk around and we'll see where we end up. I didn't have a proper walk around this area at all." She proposed, because she really didn't have the time to explore the surroundings when she was always running somewhere. To school, to practice, to another practice, home, work… She had her set routes. But wandering around with Daiki, she liked the idea. "Give me a tour; you should know it much better than me."

"Let's do that." He smiled; he knew the surrounding area pretty well, and he had a chance to show off a bit.

Aya couldn't stop smiling at the flower. She was just so delighted he hadn't forgotten. She was aware he wasn't the type of guy to buy flowers regularly or anything like that, but she was so blissful she felt like bursting; she would swear it must've glowed like a huge neon sign over her head. She spun the flower in her fingers and nuzzled her nose against the petals.

"You like it that much?" He asked curiously. It was probably the first or the second time he'd seen her that happy.

She looked up at him and nodded. "Yeah, you didn't forget. And well… I mean. It's a happy flower."

"So you know what it means?"

"Eh?" She nodded. "You do too?" That was even more surprising.

"The lady told me. I had no idea flowers had a language..." He hummed. "But I s'pose girls know that kind of stuff."

She laughed. "Not at all. I only know about the flowers I like. And definitely not all of those."

"Still…"

There were so many things they wanted to talk about that neither of them could choose a topic. What should I talk about? What is okay? I don't want to ruin it. They kept thinking. And for a while they walked around in silence. Daiki didn't want to step on a landmine by asking about Suzume. He wasn't much talkative to begin with, so it was probably up to her to loosen up his tongue somehow. But he was sure she could manage it easily.

It was an antsy silence, but not an uncomfortable one. At least they were together.

"Was the camp okay?" She finally asked after a few minutes. It'd been on her mind ever since she'd left.

He frowned a bit, was there insecurity, hesitation he heard? "Sure. Just what a camp should be. Why d' y' ask?"

"Well, it's…" She sighed. "I feel like I wasn't there for the team as much as I should have."

"Hah?" He didn't grasp the 'team' concept anymore, maybe he was slowly opening up to the idea, but there was still a long way to go. But that she would doubt herself…

"I dealt with so many personal things; you – which was awesome, by the way – and Kaito, Kyou, even Kouta. I was with my family. I ditched some practises too… And those I didn't, I might've practised but I think I wasn't 100% present..."

"And they all understand, silly. Because despite all that you were dealing with, you went to practises, you helped them out, you cooked; you still did what you should've done. No one cares if it was 100% or 70%. There was Satsuki and Ohno and that swearing midget to do the job too. And you will deal with me from now on on a daily basis." He smirked. "They should get used to it."

He was just… "You should be the captain one day." She said immediately without a second thought and she sounded like it was already decided.

"Geh, no thanks." He shuddered. As the captain there would be no skipping practises and a lot of responsibility for the youngsters that would come along. He couldn't imagine himself shouldering that.

I wonder about that… She thought but she didn't want to push him, so she chuckled. "Thanks for the cheer up though."

"Did you rest at least a little bit during the summer?"

"Do I ever? But I'm actually looking forward to the new term; finally some steady routine again. Without the company work this time, ah, how freeing that feels."

A teasing smirk appeared on his face. "So you have all the homework done?"

It was her turn to shudder. "Geh." She still needed to finish that.

"Heeee? The no. 1 student of the class doesn't have her homework done?" He continued.

"Hey! I'm not the no. 1 student! But do you?" She jabbed back.

He shrugged carelessly. "Except history, I haven't even started."

"Ah, right, you haven't been at home either. How was your summer? Tell me." She was really curious, because this part of Daiki's family was completely unknown.

Supported by her honest interest, he started talking. He wasn't used to talking about himself much, but it was actually easy with her around. She was listening carefully, asking more details when she wanted; and so as they kept strolling around aimlessly, talking about Daiki's summer adventures. He knew Aya had an adventurous and naturally curious spirit so he told her about the island, and how it went over there. About his grandma, her diner where he'd worked a bit. About Klahan and his kid sister, who turned out to be Aya's big fan... Needless to say, Aya was amazed.

"Eeeh? She actually knows me?"

"Why do you sound surprised, Mrs. World champion?" He teased.

"Oh, shut up." She bumped into him. "It always makes me happy, actually. Does she dance too?"

"There are no clubs like that there. All Malee knows, she learned from watching your videos. And no, I haven't seen her dance." He added seeing the question in her eyes. "Even if I saw her I know nothing about that. I don't get her trying to learn something she can't really do on her own…" He hummed.

"Apparently she can, or she just enjoys it enough to keep at it even without a coach or partner." She smiled and then an idea struck her. "Ne?"

"Hm?"

"Could I meet her someday?"

His eyes widened. That… "She would burst from overexcitement. And grandma wouldn't mind my plus one in her house. And the diner can always use some help. Ah… Well… If you'd want to come." Were they just making some really silly future plans? It excited him, and pleased him that she wanted to go there and meet his friends and his grandma. And he could already imagine Malee's reaction. She was still a kid and meeting her living superhero would be…

"You kidding? I'd love to tag along, if your grandma will have me, that is." She hoped she would get there. To the ocean and the beach and the wonderful people she believed they all were… "Wait… That means, you've seen Kouta's channel, right?"

"Yep. Translated some stuff to the kid. You did some crazy things with that bum."

"Huh?" She wasn't sure who he was talking about. Kouta? Ray? Taiga? She would go for the third option, but she wasn't sure.

"Eh, Taiga." He rubbed the back of his head sheepishly.

She chuckled. "Don't call him that. Because the bum might very well win next time."

He smirked. "Won't let him. And even if he miraculously did, he would still be a bum. Bakag–"

"Say that," she cut him sharply, "and I'll get really offended."

"Tch… You can use that against me too, y' know." He was also nicknamed as 'Ahomine' at times, not by her though, but offending her on the first official date would be really lame.

"Not that I would… In extreme cases… Hey, you listening at all?"

No. He wasn't listening at this point. Something caught his attention and he was staring past her. Hm? She followed his line of sight and found herself staring at a restaurant which obviously specialised in hamburgers.

"Hungry?" She asked, realising she wouldn't mind eating something too. It'd been some time since she'd had her breakfast.

"Ah," he blinked at her and blushed a little. "Not really." Just to prove his statement was a big ass lie his stomach rumbled. "Tch."

She laughed. "U-huh. Definitely not hungry. But I would certainly like something to eat, so…" She pointed at the restaurant that caught his attention. "Wanna go there?"

"They have the best teriyaki burger I've had in my life. But… Uhm… Do you want to go there?" He didn't really know about her favourite foods. Though he had some ideas from the lunches she'd been making him.

"Anywhere you want. I like burgers, and I apologise ahead if my eating will be un-princess like."

"No worries, food is food. Satsuki and mom took good care that I don't have any stupid beliefs when it comes to girls and eating habits."

"Very wise of them indeed." She nodded seriously.

They went in. The restaurant was not too big, not too small. It was decorated in dark colours with massive wooden furniture. The tables were situated around in a circle, with some tables in the middle and each provided a certain level of privacy. There were some people eating but it wasn't too crowded. Aya liked it there. She liked the music playing in the background; it was sort of country-like, but not exactly and it was very catchy. The songs were in English and judging by the accent it was definitely an American singer or a band Aya didn't know at all. I need to ask about that…

Before her looking around got too long, Daiki tugged her towards his preference table. He nodded to a waiter he already knew. The guy smiled politely and bowed, and then went to fetch menus; he knew Daiki didn't need – and would refuse – his assistance with seating them; though the red headed girl was definitely someone new.

"They know you already." She noted as she sat down, carefully placing the flower on the seat next to her.

Daiki shrugged. "I stop by now and then."

"Often enough." She chuckled. "Which only means their food will be amazing."

The waiter brought them menus, along with free glasses of water. "Would you also like a vase for that flower?" He asked politely glancing at the flower.

Her scar wasn't covered and Daiki noticed the waiter stared at it for a moment. Then the guy noticed Daiki's pointed stare and averted his eyes. Daiki hoped she hadn't noticed. Well, it was something that stood out, she must've been aware...

"Oh, yes. That'd be very kind of you." Aya smiled at him, handing him the sunflower.

So she hasn't noticed. Daiki thought in relief.

"Right away, miss."

They made their orders and waited.

They weren't talking much, both waiting for the food expectantly and happy to be sitting after the tour around the area, which had gotten quite long and tiring. Aya focused more on the music and tapped her feet in the rhythm, creating choreography in the very back of her mind.

But the greatest part of her mind was focusing on Daiki. Now that he was sitting opposite her, she couldn't take her eyes off him. He probably didn't realise that the white shirt made his tanned skin and refined forearm muscles stand out. Then she looked higher and admired the lines of his collarbones, his neck, Adam's apple... It was all so perfect and so distracting. Damn, she so wanted to reach out and start touching him, kissing him, exploring his body.

Daiki's eyes were roaming her up and down as well – at least what he could see over the table – so he didn't notice her burning hot stare right away. Her bare shoulders with those cute freckles, the smooth skin her cleavage showed, her breasts – she shouldn't have been allowed to wear that distracting dress, although she looked gorgeous in them. He'd rather take them off her. He frowned a bit at the necklace she seemed to wear no matter what was resting on top of the crease between her boobs. That crease was more interesting, but he wasn't sure he liked the meaning of that necklace, especially when the ex and Taiga seemed to be wearing exactly the same one non-stop too.

She stretched her arm and hooked a finger under his bracelet, pulling his arm towards her. That made him look up at her face – slightly flushed face with burning eyes – which surprised him. Was she thinking in similar lines as him?

"Hm?"

"Can I have a look?"

He nodded letting her take his arm. She studied the bracelet and its pattern for a moment, turning it around and wherever her fingers touched his skin it sent a tingling sensation through his arm. He didn't want her to stop.

She traced his wrist and the inside of his palm that was facing up. It tickled so he instinctively closed his fist and then relaxed it again. Her fascination with his hand and calluses was amusing. Then she seemed to realise she was taking way too long 'observing the bracelet' and she wanted to pull back but he caught her fingers.

That made her look at him, and damn those reddish eyes were burning so much more than a second before. If just a stare could make him hard, he would be.

He motioned his chin forward as if asking 'What have you figured out?'

"I want to touch you so much." She blurted out, not even trying to control her tongue; she couldn't when he was looking at her like that.

His eyes widened. And he would most certainly answer something, but…

"Uuuuhm…" The waiter had their food ready and he felt mortified for walking in on what seemed like an intimate and a very hot moment between the two.

Aya's eyes snapped at the guy and she pulled back her hand immediately. That was so embarrassing! But she managed to keep her composure.

The guy, who wasn't older than twenty, cleared his throat and with a slight blush he placed their food in front of them. "I'm sorry for the interruption." He told her with an amused twinkle in his dark eyes.

That was when her cheeks heated up and she covered her face. He didn't have to comment on it! "Please let me disappear." She whined quietly.

"Wouldn't that be a shame?" The waiter teased with a foxy grin and turned to leave. "If you need anything, let me know, I'll be careful when I approach the next time." He couldn't help teasing them, although he knew he'd probably get a scolding from his manager afterwards.

"Ooooh, that was mortifying." She looked at Daiki through a gap between her fingers. He was flushed too, but he had a rather surprised and happy grin on his face. Like he'd just won a prize.

"I didn't mind it."

"Well, you didn't make a fool out of yourself."

"You did that for both of us, Sweetheart." He chuckled. "And that guy has a good memory."

"You know him?"

Daiki shrugged looking at the waiter. "Not personally… Though he will surely tease you the next time you come, he's not mean."

"I probably shouldn't come ever again."

"Mhmmm… Try that," he pointed at her burger, "and you will."

"Right," she measured her portion which looked unbelievably inviting, she wanted to taste it already.

"Itadakimasu." They said at the same time and dug in.

Aya had to admit that the food was certainly worth coming back for. It was probably the best burger she'd had in Tokyo, and it wasn't that far from the school. And apparently Daiki enjoyed it here too, so… she'd have to live through some mortification and minor teasing from that waiter in the future.

When they were done they didn't really want to stay much longer. While she went to ask about the music, Daiki paid for both. She protested when she found out, but he hushed her saying he knew she was rich and that she didn't need to rub it in his face. But then again, when she proposed that she'd treat the next time, he reluctantly agreed. It kind of relieved him that he wouldn't have to always be the one paying.

"What are you planning for your birthday?" She asked when they left.

"Uh, nothing?"

"Are you not celebrating?"

"Mom and dad have 24 hour shifts on that day. So I guess I'll get something in the morning and then I'll be with the dogs. Maybe Satsuki will drop by… Ah, you can too of course." He added quickly, realising he could get a make-out session out of it. "Just please don't plan some weird party. I really don't like those."

"Not enough friends to invite?" She teased him for the Satsuki comment.

"Tch."

Aya chuckled and spun the sunflower in her fingers. "I'd gladly come over. I already have a gift too… It would be such a shame if I couldn't give it to you properly."

He glanced at her with the corner of his eyes and smirked. "After your earlier comment, I'm not sure I'm safe being alone with you." Or the other way around… He thought, because the tension was getting stronger with each time they were alone. If he could, he would gladly touch her all over – not that he actually knew what he would be doing most of the time, but… He'd figure it out on a go.

She rolled her eyes. "Don't worry, Honey-bun, I'm not planning to jump you." But then she added: "Yet."

"Could you drop the nickname?" He huffed.

"I like it." She defended herself. "But if you really hate it that much, I will."

He stared at her, not believing that.

"I'll try." She corrected herself.

He sighed but he wouldn't get a better promise than that. "Could you help me with English homework then?" He asked.

"You wanna study on your birthday?"

"Eh, tomorrow?"

"I can't. I have to force my twin to finish homework too. But we can have a study session after the opening ceremony. There should be no practise that day, and it's only half a day of school… Well… Unless you want to join us with Taiga, under my father's supervision tomorrow." She said the last sentence sourly.

"Huh?" He turned to her and blinked in surprise. "Your father's home?"

"Yeah. He was there when we returned… Said he wanted to talk, to apologise…" She sighed heavily. "I don't want him there, but I don't have the heart to throw him out. And I don't know what to do now… Ah, sorry… I didn't want to bring him up today."

"Tch, it's fine. So… does he know you're out with me?"

"No, but if he insists on talking with me tonight again… I might as well tell him."

That worried him. The fact that the man came was strange, after hearing what had happened he'd never expect Kagami Haruka to even consider apologising. But he surely wouldn't tell her what to do, because first, he had no idea either, second it was her family, and unless she explicitly asked it would be counterproductive to get involved.

"Are you gonna be safe?" That was what concerned him the most. Given the injuries the man had caused her.

"No glass tables in my home." She joked, but she knew he truly worried for her. She squeezed his hand in reassurance. "I'll be fine. Taiga and Derek are there too, and if he wants to apologise, and get another chance… I don't think he'll raise a hand on me ever again. At least that's the feeling I get now."

"Are you giving him another chance?"

She looked up at the sky and hummed, while thinking. "I don't know yet. I thought I was over it all… but I don't know."

######

"Tadaima."

"Ah," Taiga's head appeared at the end of the corridor, he wore a headband, which meant he was cooking something, "Okaeri'. You've been out for too long. It's almost dark." He pouted.

"Hah?" She didn't even manage to take off her shoes and he was already scolding her like a mother hen. "It's your turn to cook, and I was with Daiki. That's like super safe."

"There's nothing 'safe' about that guy." He retorted.

She decided not to react to that one. Shaking her head in annoyance, but refusing to ruin her good mood, she went to see what was for dinner. Not that she was hungry.

"And what's that?" Taiga's eyes almost fell out when he sighted the sunflower she carried. He pointed at it like it was an alien.

She grinned proudly. "I got that. Isn't it sweet?"

His lips twisted into a teasing smirk and he started laughing.

"What?"

"He matched up the flower to your dress?" He cackled. "No way! How could he even buy it? The idea is…Just… So funny."

Aya's eyes narrowed dangerously. "You know…" she started in a low threatening voice. "…you chose the dress."

He stopped immediately. "Err… Sorry…"

"Good boy!" She ruffled his head as if he was a dog.

"Tche! Stop it!" He pulled away abruptly.

"By the way… It's quite empty here, where are Haruka and Derek?" She asked curiously, because she couldn't see or hear them anywhere in the apartment. Did they actually leave?

"Getting a car… Apparently there is no point in having a driver if we don't have a car." He grumbled. He wanted to go, but he didn't want to be with Haruka, so he decided to stay at home. Now he wasn't sure he made a good choice. It was a car he'd use from time to time too, he wanted to have a say in it. And he liked cars. Buuut… there he was, cooking dinner and waiting for Aya.

"That means he'll be staying longer than we'd like." She sighed and went to fetch a vase for her beautiful sunflower. She already knew it would decorate the conference table in the living room, for as long as it survived.

"Tell me about it…" He returned to cutting vegetables, while Aya slumped into the couch and almost vanished between all the soft fluffy cushions decorating it. For a moment they were back in their usual routine, and he didn't mind it at all. But Haruka was restlessly picking at his thoughts. "Ne… If we're not kicking him out – we still can – shall we involve him and Derek in housework, cooking and stuff?"

"Can you imagine him cooking?" She snorted.

Taiga shrugged. "He came to 'apologise' and make amendments, no? Being involved is a good start… No matter what we decide in the end."

"Naming a stray dog is never wise; you can't get rid of it then…" She mumbled more to herself than Taiga. She snuggled further into the pile of cushions and thought about Taiga's idea. She wasn't happy about it, but she was also curious. She wanted to see how far Haruka would go, how much he truly wanted to reconnect. "Well… Fine, but I won't tolerate if he tries to bring in another housekeeper. I can do my own laundry." She said finally.

Taiga hummed in agreement. "Let's see what happens next. But one threat and he's out."

"Seems fair to me. I don't want any more scars than I have, really no." She agreed. "Well then!" She clapped her hands and forced herself up, or she'd end up sleeping on the couch again. "I'm gonna take a shower… We're studying tomorrow. And… I'll be out the day after tomorrow. It's Daiki's birthday."

Taiga raised an eyebrow. "You'd better get some condoms."

The idea stopped her mid-step. She thought about it, but she didn't feel like going all the way just yet… Then she turned to look at Taiga, who was by now all red in the face – because she actually stopped to think about it.

"Teasing me about my sex life doesn't work when you're blushing, dear brother." She winked at him and ran to her room before he'd throw something at her. Like the knife he was holding…

######

"Geez, you scared me." Daisuke almost jumped out of his skin when he returned from walking the dogs and found Daiki lying in the middle of the garden and staring at the rapidly darkening sky.

"Huh?" The teen looked up lazily. "Okaeri'." He hummed and continued in his previous activity of doing perfectly nothing.

"Everything alright?" He probed, letting the dogs off the leashes. Shiro and Kurome ran to greet Daiki immediately, Akari obediently waited for permission to do so. "Go girl." He whispered to her and she approached Daiki with her wagging tail as well.

Daiki rubbed their chins, from his previous position with a small smile on his face. "Yeah, why?"

"Uuuh… No… It's nothing. How was your date?"

With a sigh Daiki got up – forced by Shiro mainly – and despite the teasing he'd gotten with the condoms, he knew his dad was beyond himself with curiosity, no matter how much he tried to hide it. "Great."

Daisuke sat down next to his son. "I hope you didn't give Aya-chan one-word answers."

He rolled his eyes. "Tch, I even bought a flower."

"Eeeeeh?! Really?! What kind of flower? How… When…!" The strict policeman covered his face as if crying. "My son's growing up!"

"Want me to leave?" He asked sourly.

"Ah, sorry, sorry." He chuckled. "I'm happy for you. Really." He said kindly and patted Daiki's back. He didn't voice his feelings much and he would describe himself as a benevolent yet strict parent when necessary.

"Me too. She's just amazing."

So the date was a success… "But something bothers you…?"

"Her father arrived home." He said with a shrug.

Daisuke frowned. Daiki had told him what had happened to Aya-chan. That was one of the reasons he postponed the condom-thing Michiko had been urging so much. "Well… we can only hope it'll turn out for the best."

"The man doesn't deserve another chance."

"I wouldn't judge so harshly, Daiki." He looked at the sky just like Daiki had been doing a minute ago. "I've never met him, but… The fact that he's trying to make amendments… It means they've finally gotten across to him and that there's still something worth it inside of him. Apologising is never easy, and once it's been postponed like this… It's almost impossible. Especially for a proud man he seems to be."

"How can you say there's something worth left in him?"

"I've met Aya-chan. That's enough." He chuckled. "Yes, she's mostly raised herself, but all get our initial set up and how we look at the world, from our parents."

"Heh… that's why you put me to grandma? So she would set me up?"

"Ah…" Daisuke rubbed his neck remorsefully. This was coming to bite them here and there. They still hadn't talked with Daiki, and even though his son didn't remember much, the feeling of being abandoned probably stayed inside of him. No matter how well he'd been taken care of. "You know… it wasn't really our decision." He admitted.

"Huh?"

"Your grandma just stormed into our house one day, without a previous notice, packed your stuff and exclaimed that if we couldn't take care of one another, we weren't eligible to raise her grandchild. Or any child."

"Just like that?"

"Just like that." He nodded gravely.

"You didn't try to stop her?"

"Have you seen that woman being serious and angry?"

"You don't argue that." Daiki agreed and sighed.

"I wasn't happy about it. But when I think back, at that time, you were better off with her. That way we could work out our problems with mom without using you as a weapon. Your grandma did the best thing she could've done for you. Because we would've broken you." It was about the time they started talking with him honestly – not throwing a bomb on him, but slowly, steadily revealing the skeletons in their closet... They had to do it. And Aya-chan's problems made it easier to bring it up.

"So… uh… wait… you've had problems? You can be disgustingly sweet." He made a grimace, remembering some of their random smooches and hugs he witnessed on an almost daily basis. If he thought of a relationship, it was what he'd seen going on between his parents. They rarely argued, never in front of him, but he knew they were arguing sometimes. But never ever did he hear them complaining about the other or accusing the other – 'who ate the cake?' problem didn't count.

"What do I tell you?" He grinned. "Relationships take a lot of work, a lot of trust and patience, a lot of believing and hoping and biting back the angry retorts. Love is a feeling. You can't always control it, you can't force it and you can fall out of it too. But a relationship is a decision you make every day. And relationships are built and fed. And nothing is built effortlessly and sometimes you have to pick some thorns and stand through some storms, but in the end… When you see all this," he pointed around them, "and your woman smiling at you, because of you, it's worth it all."

"Hey, boys!" Michiko called them through the open back door. "Are you going to eat dinner or should I give it to the dogs?"

Daiki blinked, surprised by his dad's words of wisdom. He wasn't sure he got it all, but he knew he was lucky to have him around. And he was glad for mom's interruption, because he had no idea what he would answer.

"Ah, I'm starving." Daisuke chuckled, got up and dusting off his pants he called back. "Hai, hai! Coming right up!"

######

Haruka and Derek returned after the twins had had their dinner. They were occupying the dining table doing homework, discussing it, but when the two appeared in the room they quieted down and stared at them.

"Uh… Tadaima." Haruka squeezed out, he really wasn't used to announcing his arrival to anyone anymore.

Derek just nodded, he knew the word, but he didn't feel it was appropriate for him to use it. He considered himself to be just a stranger invading their home and their privacy. It was his job, but back in L.A. he had his own place to go and sleep at. Sure, he wanted to be a part of their household at some point, but it happened too sudden too fast.

They didn't actually reply, but they nodded in greeting.

"Do you want dinner? I made enough for everyone." Taiga said in English (taking Derek into consideration), trying to strip his voice of any emotion.

"Er… well…" Haruka blinked and shifted his weight from one leg to another awkwardly. He was baffled, because he expected a really cold shoulder and "everyone for himself" or "buy your own food" attitude from them; especially after Aya had scolded him for the coffee in the morning. And they were both facing him quite neutrally now. If he tried to see it positively… Was something changing so soon?

"Yes or no?" Taiga asked impatiently.

"Yes. We would like to… I didn't know you cook." Derek decided to take over, because he doubted Haruka would say anything. He respected his boss and feared him a bit, but here, with the twins, he was slowly getting used to the dynamics. And while he kept in mind that he was still just an employee, he was also in his temporary home. No reason to be too stiff and tense.

"No Gabi here." Taiga grinned at the young driver. "But she taught us how to take care of ourselves."

With that, he got up to serve dinner for the two, while they took their seats by the bar table, not wanting to disrupt the teenagers' study environment. Haruka's portion was half of Derek's and Aya raised an eyebrow at Taiga when she saw that.

"You can be a dick, you know that?" She commented flatly in Russian, because she knew Haruka did not understand the language and she doubted he knew they knew it.

Taiga shrugged with a glint of mischief in his eyes. "Everyone gets what they deserve." He accommodated to her language choice though he knew his accent probably sucked, because he only ever spoke Russian with Aya, Ivan and sometimes, very rarely with Ray but not anymore…

Derek sniggered under his nose, which made Aya narrow her eyes. "Don't you think our driver speaks Russian too?" She'd never bothered to read Derek's CV, or ask him things like these. Maybe I should have…

They observed Derek by the corners of their eyes and he gave them the slightest of nods. "Oh, what an advantage…" Taiga grinned.

They sat back to homework and let the two eat peacefully. Derek automatically took care of the dirty dishes. He didn't even think about it. Aya looked at Taiga with surprise and smiled approvingly. Once everything was done and taken care of, a really awkward silence settled. Haruka and Derek didn't know what to do. Sitting in their rooms was plain weird and so was lazing around like it was their place.

"I think we should talk…" Aya admitted with a sigh. It was only a day. A day. She didn't want to deal with it. But she decided it was better done sooner than later. Plus she was positively charged from her date. Daiki made her feel like she could do anything and everything. And facing her father, setting up rules… That was a challenge.

"…I'm listening." Haruka said, taking it as an invitation to sit at the dining table with them. Derek followed suit. If they didn't want him involved, they'd speak Japanese.

"Are you now?" She couldn't leave out the nasty jab, but then she folded her arms over her history textbook (noting there were things she'd have to ask Daiki, because she didn't get it) and stared at both of them, thinking it through. "I heard you went car hunting… Any success?"

"Uh… I'll deal with all the paperwork during the week, but yes. I… We have a car now." Haruka answered feeling like he was taking some exam.

We, huh? "How long are you planning to stay here?"

He'd been expecting the question. He got the message they didn't want him there loud and clear. They didn't want his apologies, but he was one stubborn man. And Lindsay had been right; it'd been enough of sticking his head in the sand. "I'm planning to stay here. For good."

Aya's jaw dropped and it looked like she got spirited away for a few seconds. Then she shook her head to snap out of it. "And the business?"

"It's possible to lead it remotely, with some business trips here and there to check things out…" He shrugged.

"Uh-huh…" He doesn't realise the time difference… and how it fucks your regime… Well, he will soon… "Great… so we're stuck here. Are you okay with that, Derek? Staying here? Don't you have a family you'd rather be with? Pets? Friends? Partner?"

That made Haruka blink at the driver. He just hadn't realised that he'd taken Derek out of his country, out of his comfort zone and didn't even ask if the man agreed or wanted to do it. Sure, he was being paid, but moving out of his country was one hell of a factor influencing if he wanted to do the job or not. Not to mention Derek's Japanese was still in diapers.

"So you didn't even bother to ask… How typical." She said with a complete disapproval in her voice. "I will though." Now she looked at Derek, waiting for his answer.

"Well…" He looked away, most of his life he'd been told what to do and as long as his basic needs were fulfilled he didn't care much about it. He could make his own decisions, but when he worked he'd devoted himself to it. There was no family he'd like to be around, no significant other he'd miss, and all his friends had their own lives. He owned no pets – he had no time for them – and except that rented apartment, he had no ties holding him in the L.A.. The best type of employee Haruka could ask for, really, but the boss didn't know about any of that, because he'd never asked either.

"No one's gonna bite your head off if you say how you really feel about it and what you want." Taiga nudged him; he kind of liked the young man, feeling they could be friends, if he didn't think about that slight age gap.

"Uhm… I have no ties in L.A. And I don't… mind it… per se, it's just all happened too fast." He looked away from the three looking so much alike. "I've kinda wanted to become someone like Gabi and Ivan to you… Ah… sorry." He blushed, that must've sounded creepy. "But I do need to take care of my rent. So I'll need to get back and pay for it and all… but, if you don't mind me here, then I think I should work on my Japanese." He tried to make it a bit lighter with that last comment, but his throat was too dry.

Aya sighed, part of her expected that kind of answer. Their awesome days of living on their own were gone for good. But then she smiled. "We should get you some language teacher soon then."

"Eh?"

"It's gonna be crowded and I'm gonna be a minority here, but I'm not gonna kick you out, if staying with us is your choice." She reassured him. "Now… Since this is our household," she made it clear she meant her and Taiga, "there are some things we need to set clear if we want to manage living together without casualties."

"Such as?" Haruka asked with a frown. He didn't like being ordered around, really no. And the fact that they treated Derek better than him really irritated him. But he was trying so hard to keep it bottled in.

She raised an eyebrow at him, maybe Taiga was right and this could be a tiny bit amusing too. Showing Haruka just how much he didn't know, how much he'd missed, how much they didn't need him. Some vicious part of her was actually looking forward to seeing him clean the toilet or carry shopping bags. She'd already forgotten how that looked.

"Such as," she repeated meaningfully, "we don't and won't have a Gabi here, so everyone living here will participate in housework and cooking and shopping. The major cleaning day is Saturday, so I'll make some chart of duties and put it on the fridge. We were already set that I make breakfast during the week and dinners during weekends. Breakfast will be my responsibility as the school starts again, but dinners will be split between the three of you. We don't have a dishwasher, so everyone washes their dirty dishes. I do all the laundry, that's not changing. So please, put the dirty laundry into the basket in the bathroom, because I'm not going to turn into a sniffer and scout your rooms in search for dirty underwear, sorry. No. Everything I find on the ground goes to the washing machine right away."

"I'm not a maid, or a cook." Haruka grumbled.

"You're also not the big boss here. And I'm not asking anything outrageous from you. So if you want to stay…" you'll do it. She shrugged. "If not, you know where the door is. But it'll be your final time leaving through it." Was there a hint of hope and sadness in her voice at the same? Damn, she thought she'd been over it.

No one raised objections after that.

"Good. Let's try not to kill each other from now on."

A/N: That'd be it for the CH50. We (me and my two awesome friends) checked it couple of times, but there still might be some typos/mistakes, sorry for that. Next we'll have Daiki's birthday... so...

Let me know what you think and remember, reviews are appreciated but never necessary.

S.