A/N: Thanks everyone who followed, favourited and reviewed! It makes me very happy!
I believe everyone is expecting a bit of smutty themes already... And I don't feel like raising the rating as the fic won't show to everyone then, so I kind of 'labeled' the citrus part. You'll know when you get to it, and you'll probably laugh at me for doing so, but it's giving you a chance to skip it, if you don't want to read it (or are "underaged", though I doubt any sincerity on that front xD). I'll be labelling those parts of the story form here on, and you won't miss anything crucial if you skip it.
Anyways, here's the promised second chapter of the day! Yaaay!
Enjoy!
I love people who make me laugh. I honestly think it's the thing I like most, to laugh. It cures a multitude of ills. It's probably the most important thing in a person. ― Audrey Hepburn
And then he gives me a smile that just seems so genuinely sweet with just the right touch of shyness that unexpected warmth rushes through me. ― Suzanne Collins, The Hunger Games
We didn't talk about anything heavy or light. We were just there together. And that was enough. ― Stephen Chbosky, The Perks of Being a Wallflower
I want to tell her how much she's become the center of my being. But I can't. The words won't come. ― Simone Elkeles, Perfect Chemistry
I'm smart enough to know that you feel it, too. This isn't just heat, it's a goddamned conflagration. Not chemistry, but nuclear fission. ― J. Kenner, Release Me
Satsuki decided to call Aya a day before Daiki's birthday. She wanted to know if the couple had some plans or if she could drop by and give him the gift she'd bought. It was supposed to be a surprise for Daiki, so she didn't want to call him – she knew he'd be at home.
Aya picked up after a while and two tries.
"Hey! Sorry, we're studying. What's up?" The redheaded sounded cheerful as usual.
And it made Satsuki smile. Despite their small misunderstanding, she loved her friend and the good vibes she was spreading around her.
"Hi! It's Aomine-kun's birthday tomorrow, and I was wondering… If you had any plans?"
"Tell me you're not planning a party…"
The pinkette laughed. "No, no. He hates surprises like that." She waved her hand and threw herself onto her bed, to feel more comfortable while talking. "I've tried it a couple of times, but the last time ended up in catastrophe, so…"
"What happened?" Aya asked curiously and Satsuki could hear some rustling and then the door shutting, so the redhead probably changed locations to get privacy.
"Ah, they were already de-friended at Teiko, and Kuroko-kun was off the team… but I wanted to bring them together, and well, I tried to bake a cake using Michiko-san's kitchen… and eerrr… well… Let's say it turned out almost like that rice cooker."
"Yikes. I can imagine… So, what are you planning?"
"I just wanted to know if I could drop by Aomine-kun's with Ki-chan to give him gifts and hang out a bit… or if you had some special plans…" She actually blushed at the idea of the two having 'special plans'. It was Daiki's birthday and Aya was his girlfriend, what if she was planning to…? Oh…
"…tell me you're not blushing and imagining some really dirty things as 'special plans'." She chuckled. And she was right on point in reading Satsuki's tone of voice.
"Ah, well…" She felt her cheeks heating up even more. "But you've had that tension for so long! And it's his birthday, so…"
"So what? Of course you and Kise can join. I wanted to drop by around three P.M., I'll bake something."
"…okay. But you really don't mind us, right?"
Aya laughed. "Why would I? You're his best friends."
"So you really weren't planning anything… special…?" She felt almost disappointed in that answer. But then again if Aya said she didn't want them to come, she'd feel offended and hurt. You're an idiot Satsuki… Idiot.
"If I am, it's between Daiki and me, dear. I don't want to disappoint you, so… don't push for any details, 'kay?"
"Ah… right, sorry, sorry. I just…" Just what? She didn't want to be left out, that's what. Her two best friends were dating, and she had no part in it. She'd wanted it, but what if they'd push her out completely? She didn't want that, she didn't want to be the third wheel. She knew they weren't like that, but… But…
"Just what?"
"No, it's nothing." She waved her hand as if Aya could see her. "Nothing at all. Then I'll see you tomorrow at three."
"Yeah, see you tomorrow."
######
Aya walked out of the room staring at her phone with puzzled expression. Just what? She wondered, but if Satsuki wouldn't say, she wouldn't know.
"Something up?" Taiga asked, noticing her frown.
She shook her head and put her phone on the counter. "Nothing, I guess." There was no reason to worry over nothing.
"Satsuki doesn't know what to buy, or is she anxious if she can see your boyfriend tomorrow?" He asked with a teasing grin.
It was just the time when Haruka had to crawl out of the workroom and come get some juice. "So I was right. You do have a boyfriend!" He pointed a finger at her, but it wasn't as terrible a reaction as the last time he'd done that. More like there was a slight hesitation if he should say something or not and then his bossy nature took over.
Aya rolled her eyes at Taiga and ignored Haruka. "Thank you, brother."
"So that flower," he looked at the sunflower in the living room then back at Aya, "you were on a date yesterday." He accused her.
"Yes I was." She snapped at him with a very defensive expression and tone. "And it's none of your business."
"Of course it is my business! You're my daughter."
"Oh, really? Am I now?"
"Eh… uhm…" He looked away from her burning stare and rubbed the back of his neck. But he was frowning deeply. This was ridiculous. "I don't like it." He said, trying to sound as calm as possible.
"That's your problem, not mine." She said. "Then again, you'd happily sell me out." She jabbed. "Hmmm… something doesn't add up here."
Taiga stared at her with respect. After dividing the housework she was so viciously honest with Haruka it was amusing to watch. Because of his newly found conscience he was actually backing away. And truthfully, she was right. It was Haruka's problem he didn't like the idea of her dating someone. Just like it was Taiga's problem he didn't like Aomine. He would tolerate the guy for Aya's sake though.
Haruka huffed, took what he came for and left back to his workroom, grumbling something under his nose the whole way.
"Yay! Victory." Taiga clapped and laughed.
"They haven't met yet." She said gravely, knowing all too well they were both hotheads.
"Aomine isn't such an idiot to start a fight with him, or is he?"
"Errr...Hope not…"
######
Kise was practising with some of his teammates on an outside court close to school. After some morning photo shoot and killer official practise, he felt he needed to practise a bit more. He was trying some things he had to do over and over again to learn. Copying the other three besides Daiki was unbelievably difficult, but he was slowly getting a hang of it. He still had tons of work ahead, but he couldn't wait until the Winter cup.
His phone rang and he went to pick it up, noticing how those he'd persuaded to stay longer with him sat on the ground happy for the interruption.
He sighed when he saw it was Satsuki again.
"What again?" He asked rather impatiently. She'd called the moment they'd returned from the camp, then again and then in the morning too. Not to say, Reina-chan had a strange expression when she'd figured out who was 'Momocchi'. He liked Satsuki, from her, he'd been informed that the two were finally dating – he'd have to scold Aominecchi for not sharing that by himself – but sometimes she was just too pushy.
"Ki-chan? Sorry, but… When are we dropping by Aomine-kun's?" She asked.
"Eh… I haven't thought about that yet. We said to decide that tomorrow. Have you set some time with Ayacchi?" He expected the girls to decide.
"We were thinking about two P.M. Aya-chan said she'll bake something."
"Mhm, 'kay. We should leave sooner then and leave them alone. You know… It's his birthday after all, and he missed Ayacchi's." He said staring at his tired teammates; maybe it was time to finish for the day. Maybe I could get Aominecchi to play some one-on-ones tomorrow. Yeah, I'll go there sooner…
"Ah… right… it's their alone time after all…" She sounded somewhat dejected, but Kise wasn't in the mood to deal with that.
"Yeah. So, see you tomorrow."
"See ya." She hung up.
Kise stared at the phone. Some 'red' light flared at the back of his mind. More pink than red really, it wasn't too bad and it wasn't something he could fully name or grasp at the moment. But something bugged him about Satsuki.
"Nah…" He shook his head and decided to ignore it.
"Can we go home, now?" Hayakawa asked, and surprisingly he was tired enough to speak at normal speed.
The blonde nodded. He should be happy they stayed at all. "I'll stay a bit longer."
"No. You'll go home and rest too." Kobori said seriously, and as the vice-captain he was the second most respected person in the team. He didn't like Kise overworking too much, that's why he stayed behind.
Kise stared at the senpai for a moment, judging how much he could protest, then he yielded with a sigh. "'kay. Thank you for staying behind with me."
The guys grinned at him. "You've become more pleasant to hang around."
"Hey! I've always been sweet and pleasant!"
"I won't come to all practises because I'm the famous model and I don't need it." Abe imitated Kise's voice and his original arrogant manners. He was the second year, who'd gotten benched when Kise had joined the team. However, he didn't feel any resentment towards the prodigy blonde. And he actually liked him and enjoyed practising with him. Thus, he often made fun of him.
"Stop bullying me, Abe-senpai!" Kise whined and turned to vice-captain pointlessly looking for support. "Tell him something Kobori-senpai!"
"You heard him." Kobori said emotionlessly, he couldn't care less about the teasing in the team.
"Not faaaaair!"
"Aominecchi! Anybody home?" Kise asked carefully when he let himself inside. He knew where the spare key was hidden, but the house was quiet. Until Shiro greeted him with barks and then she and Kurome ran down the stairs like a storm.
"Hi girls!" He greeted them, surprised that they weren't jumping at him anymore. Aominecchi must've done some training with them… It never ceased to amaze him how fast these dogs were learning.
"What are you doing here?" Daiki asked in his almost fed up tone and strolled down the stairs to greet the intruder too. Think about them guarding… He sighed inwardly, seeing the dogs' affection.
"Why are you frowning at me like you don't want me here?" The blonde asked theatrically.
Daiki raised an eyebrow, which spoke volumes: 'because I don't.' "I didn't think you'd show up. Alone." He said instead.
"Momocchi will come at two. I wanted to get you to play some one-on-one with me." He shrugged, his smile turning into a smirk. "And I heard you and Ayacchi are a thing. Finally!"
Daiki shuddered like a dog at hearing that. That foxy grin on the blonde's face was not a good sign. I'll kill her. He thought, hoping Satsuki was getting chills right about now.
"So?" He tried to sound like it was not a big deal.
But Kise wasn't fooled. Aominecchi was happy and at the same time scared beyond himself, no matter how much he tried to hide it. He knew the bluenette too well after all.
"So, if there's something you'd like to ask, I'm all ears."
Smug bastard. "As if I'd ask you anything."
"Hmmmm… Eventually you will." He chuckled. "So? One-on-one?"
"Hah? Where's my 'happy-birthday' gift?" He asked with his hands on his hips. Kise could be like a storm too. Coming over, letting himself in and demanding a game on Daiki's birthday, without even saying 'happy birthday'. And to top it, Daiki kinda hoped Aya would arrive as the first one or something…
"You have to earn it." Kise nodded seriously, but he really just wanted to wait for everyone.
Daiki laughed roughly at that. "You are the most annoying bastard I know."
"And I'm still your best friend!"
He shook his head. "I'll go change shoes and grab the ball."
"Hai, hai!" Kise leaned down to the dogs. "So, do you think I can win?"
"Not in a thousand years!" Daiki shouted from his room.
"I wasn't talking to you!"
######
Satsuki found the two playing in front of Daiki's garage. They were both thoroughly sweated through, no wonders Ki-chan wasn't picking up his phone. She narrowed her eyes at the blonde. He cheated. Then she narrowed her eyes even more observing them.
It seemed they were both holding back, and Kise was once again losing. He could score, but Daiki just scored more.
"Ah, Momocchi." Kise noticed her first and stopped. Wincing a bit, but hiding it very well. "Hey! I wondered when you'd arrive." Then he looked around expecting to see Ayacchi, but she wasn't there? That worried sensation he'd had the previous day returned, now he understood it a bit. He raised an eyebrow at Satsuki.
She looked away, not meeting his eyes. She wanted to be with them without Aya for a bit. That wasn't bad in any way.
"Yo." Daiki nodded her in greeting, disappointed he didn't see Aya anywhere, when she was the one he wanted to see the most.
"Are you two done fooling around?" She asked with a smile, though she was happy she saw them playing basketball again. After Kise's loss, she wasn't so sure the blonde would want to do something like unofficial one-on-ones in front of the garage. Apparently the blonde was more resilient than she'd thought.
They exchanged glances and shrugged. "Sort of."
"So where's the cake, Momocchi?" Kise asked, he meant Ayacchi and he knew the pinkette would get it.
"I didn't try to bake this year." She pouted, finding her way out, but she was hyper aware of Kise's well hidden disapproval. Although he'd come even sooner than her, which was not fair at all!
"Thanks for saving our lives." Daiki muttered under his breath and let them in. Childish as it might've been, he didn't really feel like getting their gifts. Then again, he wouldn't tell them to go away. They were of the few putting up with him to this extent.
The boys took mandatory showers, because Satsuki refused to be in one room when they were stinky and sweated through.
They figured out they could talk like before. Sharing their summer experiences, talking about new movies they'd seen, sometimes Satsuki and Kise would slide into talking about fashion, which went over Daiki's head, because he couldn't care less.
Shiro was resting over Daiki's lap and he was stroking her side here and there. Kurome was further away, she didn't develop any deeper feelings with the two intruders and she didn't really compete with Shiro over Daiki's attention. But she still liked to be in one room with everyone. And because she was almost out of Daiki's room, she heard and smelled another person at the door before she could ring a doorbell.
Kurome got up and ran downstairs with her tail wagging. The most loved person outside her family arrived.
Daiki stared after the dog in surprise, then the doorbell rang and he dared to guess who that was.
"That's Ayacchi, right?" Kise asked and got up. "We should all go down. If she brought a cake, we should eat it in the kitchen."
"Tch. It's my cake. You don't get to eat it." Not that he knew there really was a cake.
"How mean!" He complained and followed after Daiki, leaving Satsuki to be the last. "But Blackie sure likes her…" He hummed.
"Kurome." Daiki corrected him with an eye roll.
"Yeah, yeah."
When Kurome saw Aya at the door she was so excited she almost jumped at the girl, despite all the training she'd had which said she was not allowed to do it. Daiki just barely caught her collar and pulled her back. If she jumped at Aya while she carried that box with the cake, his cake would be totally ruined. He wouldn't allow his dog to ruin his food. Ever. No matter how much he loved them.
"Hey!" She greeted them with a bright smile, looking at Kurome first. Then she looked up and a shadow crossed her face disappearing quickly. She was right on time, but apparently… she wasn't? "Am I late?" She asked looking at Satsuki, then quickly looking away when the pinkette avoided her eyes again. "Sorry for that." She laughed making light of the situation, but she felt bad because of it. Daiki was probably disappointed she was late. "I got a bit held up while making this." She weighted the box in her hand.
'I'll make it up to you.' She glanced at Daiki, hoping he'd get the massage.
He blushed, so she knew it would be okay. He took the box from her and it was surprisingly heavy. Then he could finally see her, in short shorts and flowy black tank top with a howling wolf pattern and not covering her scar. He liked it. It fitted her. Especially the quote under the wolf: And into the forest I go to lose my mind and find my soul. Then again, he couldn't imagine her looking bad in anything.
She closed the door behind her. First she gave a quick peck to Daiki, who stood there too baffled to react, then she bent down and greeted Shiro and Kurome, paying much more attention to Kurome. She just loved the black Labrador for some reason.
Kise gave Satsuki one long pointed stare and then greeted Ayacchi with a smile. He hadn't seen her since the Interhigh. But there was something he hadn't noticed before and he unintentionally did what everyone did. He gawked at the scar on her shoulder.
"Ah…" She covered it with her hand to cut his staring. "Sorry, I guess it freaks you out…"
"Er…" He rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly as that was rude of him. "Didn't mean to stare… Sorry."
She chuckled and followed after Daiki into the kitchen where she put his present next to the box and washed her hands after cuddling Kurome. Noticing everyone was following suit.
"Everyone does that the first time they see it, no big deal, Model-kun."
"It's kinda cool though."
"Disgusting you mean?" She raised an eyebrow at him.
"No! It's not that bad…" His voice trailed off, he didn't really like scars on women whatsoever. But it made him wonder…
Aya laughed and pulled the box towards her, pulling a candle from her tiny cross body bag. "You're free to admit that, no hard feelings."
"Where'd you get it?" He asked finally, staring again. It looked quite bad…
"Later, I might feed your curiosity. But today's Daiki's day! He is the most important person here." She said with a bright smile. "So…" She opened the box revealing a beautiful tasty looking fruit birthday cake. All kinds of berries were decorating the top and it seemed to be yoghurt-cheesecake. "I really hope no one's lactose intolerant."
She hummed when getting rid of the box and putting one candle into the middle of the round cake.
"It doesn't matter." Daiki said, staring at the cake in awe. It was perfect for summer, and he loved fruit-yoghurt combinations and cheesecakes much more than chocolate cakes. " 'cause they're not gettin' any." He said with childish determination to claim the whole cake for himself. And Aya. He'd share with her.
She laughed heartily at that. "But they've brought gifts too; they should get a tiny little taste of what they'll be missing."
"Hey! Just because you're dating, doesn't mean you can gang up on us regular best friends!" Kise whined but his eyes were laughing and it was obvious he didn't mean it too seriously. But damn, how the tanned ace brightened up with Aya in his presence was almost unbelievable.
"Isn't that one of the perks of that?" She pulled out her lighter, without thinking about it, when Daiki stopped her.
"What?"
"Do you have one more candle?"
"Huh?"
He looked away, slightly embarrassed in front of Satsuki and Kise. "We didn't celebrate your birthday…"
Kise was quick to join in. "Right! That's true! I have something for you too, Ayacchi!" When he noticed Satsuki's alarm he quickly added: "and Momocchi too!" He could give up half of his gift to save Satsuki's ass. For this once.
"Eeh?" Aya blinked at them in surprise. She really didn't expect it.
"Don't 'eh' us." Daiki chuckled. "Add the candle."
"Ah, right… Thank you, though!"
"Tche." He rolled his eyes and let her lit the two candles.
"Wish something!" Satsuki said. Then she glanced at Kise and at the same time they said: "Happy birthday!"
Aya and Daiki blew their candles each having their wish:
'I want to be with her forever.'
'Please let me stay with him from now on.'
When they looked at each other, they had a very good idea they probably wished the same thing. The love in the other's eyes was undeniable. His smile was so warm and kind and loving. One of his rare, but really beautiful smiles reserved solely for Aya. If this was to be her gift, she'd be completely content with it. With a slight blush they broke the staring.
"After the cake and gift giving, we should leave, Momocchi." Kise whispered to her when they went to get their gifts.
"Yeah…" She agreed feeling a bit dejected by it, but the two obviously wanted some alone time. She'd never seen Daiki smile like that; she wasn't jealous, just a bit sad he'd showed only to his loved one.
"And we'll go for an ice cream. My treat." He said, thinking that he should try talking with Satsuki.
Aya was so happy everyone liked her cake, it was worth her efforts. Eating the cake together was fun; the boys fought for the 'next' piece to the point she confiscated it from the table until they yielded. They were truly best friends. And seeing Daiki so relaxed around his trusted friends was really encouraging. Because she knew he was only a few steps from truly enjoying basketball again, and seeing the people around him, caring and being there for him was so great. She was happy to be a part of this group. She was happy she'd returned to this country.
Kise totally nagged them into opening his and Satsuki's gifts as he wanted to see the reactions.
"Can you nag anyone into anything?" Aya wondered out loud when the blonde forced a tiny bag and an envelope into her hands.
"If I could, I would be already dating Reina-chan."
"Not -cchi?" She raised an eyebrow.
"I got hit for that." He pouted. Then he clapped, not wanting their attention on this topic. "Open up! I want to see what you've got!"
Daiki rolled his eyes. "Like you don't know."
"But you don't." He smirked proudly with a devilish glint in his eyes. "Come on, Aominecchi!"
For a moment the bluenette hesitated. He did not like that light in the model's eyes because he knew it meant the gift was either something dirty or embarrassing or funny. He prayed it was something 'funny' he would have no use of.
But it was something between dirty and perfect. When Daiki saw it was Mai-chan's autograph on one of her best photos he was gleeful like a little kid. Forgetting about the two girls, and his woman watching him. That was something only Kise could think of, really. Then he froze looking at Aya. It probably wasn't appropriate to be so happy getting a signed photo of a model in her underwear.
She had a raised eyebrow, but she didn't seem one bit angry or annoyed. She'd known this side of him almost from the day one, so there was no way it mattered to her much.
But Kise had to open his mouth and comment on it. "Aaaaaand, Ayacchi approves!"
Daiki narrowed his eyes at Kise, was the gift chosen on purpose?
Aya laughed at Kise's joke. He was making them all laugh, and she liked that side of him. "Would anything change if I did't approve? - No." She shook her head. "Admit that you just wanted to see my reaction to your gift. And tease us."
"Hmph. I expected a bit of jealousy, yeah…" He rubbed his chin in thoughtfulness. "All my exes were crazy when I looked at anyone else."
"Except the girl you're pining for?"
"Ayacchi!" How could his teasing turn against him so often?
Daiki laughed too. "Serves you right."
"No, seriously, you don't care?" His golden eyes shone in curiosity. He wanted to know.
"Uuuh… If it's just a picture or a glance, no I don't care. You seem to forget I grew up surrounded by boys, cousins, Shiranuis… and my twin is a guy, Model-kun. I pretty much know how you function." She chuckled. "And besides… I know Daiki loves me and I do believe him." That made even Kise blush and look away, not to mention Daiki. Aya covered her face in embarrassment. "Gosh, that sounded so self-centred."
Kise shook his head and grinned. "No, that was really cool. Now, chop chop, more gifts are waiting!"
Daiki rolled his eyes, but felt grateful the attention was now off him and back on the gifts. He found some sweets and cinema tickets for some horror movie he'd give to his mom – Kise really liked to buy gifts to make fun of him, knowing he wouldn't use the tickets.
From Satsuki he got a new headset he so wanted. And he suspected Satsuki made some deal regarding the gifts with his parents...
And then Aya's gift… but he kind of wanted to open it when he was alone, with her only. And so he pushed it aside, hoping it wouldn't offend her. Because his gift for her was in his room and he wanted to give it to her before opening his.
"My turn, I guess." Aya was surprised and happy to receive something too. She wasn't used to it. As a rich kid she rarely got gifts from anyone, because 'you can buy whatever you want by yourself'... So no matter how small it was, when someone thought of her like this, she appreciated it so much.
"Ah, start with Momocchi's!" Kise stopped her from opening the envelope first.
"Why?"
"My gift should go last. Because you'll love it the most."
"You sound creepily sure of that, you didn't stalk me or anything, did you?"
"I'd never!"
Aya sighed, the blonde was surely capable of that in order to please his friends, but she hoped it really wasn't the case and she took the tiny paper bag. "Hai, hai… So what do we have here...?"
"Oooh! Yum! Thank you!" From Satsuki she got chocolates she loved. "I'll have to hide these chocolates from Taiga." Then there were really cute ring earrings.
And Satsuki herself was more surprised than Aya, but she hid it well. The pinkette hadn't noticed that Aya had her ears pierced or that she actually had two holes in her left ear, simply because there was a no-jewellery rule at school and Aya rarely wore earrings anymore.
"I fear opening this." She hummed when taking the envelope from Kise.
"No reason to fear, Ayacchi! You'll love it!" I hope...
"Okay... Here we go…" She opened it slowly, carefully as if it could contain a bomb. But when she read what it actually was… She squealed happily. "No way!" She covered her mouth staring in shock at two tickets for a ballet show. "Seriously?! The nutcracker?" She looked at Kise with her eyes shining in excitement.
Kise squirmed at his spot. "I did a little research…" He admitted sheepishly, really hoping he didn't make a huge mistake. She looked happy, but…
"Thank you! I haven't seen it in ages!" She exclaimed, pressing the tickets close to her chest, her heart.
"...and you can take this idiot to broaden his horizons." Kise muttered, looking away from the excited and grateful redhead, because Daiki would have his head if he stared a bit more.
"Hey! Who're you calling an idiot!" Daiki protested, not happy that Aya liked Kise's gift this much. The bastard had a talent to get under everyone's skin eventually. And that expression of hers… She shouldn't carelessly show it around.
"I will! Thank you!" She exclaimed happily, and if Kise sat beside her she'd probably hug him. She realised it was a blessing he was sitting opposite her, because even if she wouldn't mean anything more than gratitude Daiki might not have appreciated it. Especially when Kise was his best friend.
"I'm not an idiot." He repeated, but no one paid attention to that. Then he glanced at her suspiciously. "What's the nutcracker?"
"Apparently, our programme for the 23rd December." She said waving the tickets at him.
His eyes narrowed, why did he have a feeling he wouldn't like it?
She laughed. "It's a famous ballet, Daiki. I think it was the very first performance in my life I did with mom… The only one I did with her really. I was so frightened of the rat king..." Her excitement turned into something much softer. A fond memory floating to the surface... "Ah… But if you say you don't want to go, I'll take Taiga. Ballet is considered boring, after all." She added quickly, snapping out of her flashback.
"No, I'll go." He said, his own expression softening. It must've meant a lot to her, and he was her first choice. He had no idea what to expect from ballet, but he wanted to see the rat king that scared the kid Aya. And he wanted to see her face when she'd watch the show, and hold her hand… no, he wouldn't get bored.
Kise was grinning, his gifts were success. He was delighted by it. Then he glanced at the clock in an obvious gesture. "Ah, I should go."
"A date?" Aya guessed with a teasing smile, understanding his courtesy.
He chuckled and ran his fingers through his hair. "Meanie! You know, I'm not that lucky yet. But I'll definitely have someone to come to the dancing courses." He'd make Reina go even if he had to beg her over and over again until she gave in.
Aya blinked at him. "Oh… give me a call then. I think Miki-san is coming back, so I'm not sure I'll be teaching there any more. But if it's you coming, I'll make sure to be there."
"Why do you sound like you don't like the woman?"
"Never met her." She shrugged. "It's just a feeling we won't get along well I get when Senri talks about her. Well… we can't love everyone, but it's certainly going to be interesting."
"I'll give you a call then." He nodded and got up, glancing at Satsuki. "Wanna grab an ice cream on our way?" He nudged her to get moving too.
"Your treat though, Ki-chan."
"Naturally." The blonde chuckled.
When the two left, silence settled over the house again.
"Ah, the quiet." …and only Aya here…
"Not opening my gift?" She rested her chin in her palm and stared at him.
"Not until you get yours." He pushed himself off the chair and headed to his room, taking his gift with him.
"There is one for me?" She blinked in surprise and followed after him. So many gifts! You must be loved. She thought, not sure her heart could take all this positive things without crying from happiness.
"Didn't I say you'd get one?"
"You said 'Maybe'."
"That's about the same."
"No it's not."
"Yes it is."
"No it's not."
"Do you want it or not?" He asked her with a barky chuckle.
"Of course I do!"
"Then stop complaining."
"I'm not complaining."
He raised an eyebrow at her.
She chuckled, she liked this bickering.
He shook his head, taking the gift out of his desk. The condoms were just next to it and he quickly shut the drawer before she could notice.
Aya frowned thoughtfully when she saw the brand logo on the small paper bag. That was one expensive gift she was about to get, no matter what he chose. Then again, she got him something from there as well, but got rid of the paper bag.
"Well… happy birthday… I guess." He muttered as he was handing the gift.
She took it with a grin. "You guess?"
He took a step towards, invading her personal space and towering over her, but she didn't budge a millimetre. "Will you stop that?" He asked, but he didn't really mind it.
"Hmmm… Maybe? If I get a proper kiss..." She grinned at him. "Then I'll see what I can do about it."
He chuckled softly, oh he was one lucky guy for once, and leaned down to give her the proper kiss she wanted; probably more proper than she had in mind. But he hadn't kissed her in days and he missed it. It was so easy to get under her charm, to get used to her soft lips moving to match his. Responding to his hunger equally. She tasted like the cake they'd just eaten and he wanted to taste more of that.
With a content sigh she let his tongue in.
Damn, he was one hell of a good kisser. When their tongues tangled, she pressed herself closer to him and her free hand dived into his short hair, pulling him closer. She wanted him closer. Much, much closer. He groaned softly.
His thumbs brushed against her cheeks and they parted to get some air. But not before she got to gently bite his lower lip.
His eyes shone with desire and he smirked at her. "Was that proper enough for you?" But there was more than desire and more than just a proud smirk… And she could see it.
"A definition of proper." She nodded. Honestly, she didn't care much about the gift anymore, but it kept her hand full, and that put her in disadvantage in any make-out activities. "Now I want to see my branded gift."
"Only if I let you."
"And there you said it wasn't safe for you to be with me alone…" She teased and gave him another peck on his lips, remaining there a little longer.
"It's not. And neither it is for you."
She chuckled. "Really? I feel quite safe with you. Alone or otherwise." She said truthfully, not continuing their flirting.
It took his breath away more than any teasing could have; because she honestly meant what she said. "The gift." He reminded her and took a step back. He wanted to see her open it. And wear it. And he really didn't want to attack her.
"Yours too." She hummed and sat on the ground.
When he joined her, she took out the box. Judging by its size she had an idea what it might've been and she was glad she wasn't wearing any jewellery except the necklace. She was about to open the box, when she stopped. She could feel his eyes on her, "stop staring at me."
"I'm not staring."
"I can feel it."
"Tch." He rolled his eyes. "I wanna see your face."
"All right, all right." She chuckled and opened the box. When she saw the leather bracelet with a dangling bead depicting basketball she blinked and then started laughing. She was unbelievable delighted by the gift, it was perfect. It was from him. But…
"What?" He got baffled by the reaction. "What's so funny?" He'd tried so hard to get it. He'd had to go shopping with Kise. Kise!
"Open yours." She said, still laughing and took out the bracelet to admire it. She didn't have a braided bracelet like this yet.
He frowned, but listened. When he fished out about the same box as hers was, just in different colour, he got a suspicion. Then he opened it and laughed too. Now he got it.
In his box was almost the same bracelet, just thicker, manlier. And the bead of basketball was different, not a dangling one, but a regular bead. They unintentionally got each other matching bracelets. Is that why she studied the one I had the other day?
"Telepathy…" He mumbled. "When did you buy it?"
"Hmmm… I guess it was… The 7th August? Why?"
"Uff, good. Sooner than me."
"What?"
"If we bought it on the same day… I'd get scared."
She thought about it. "Me too." She agreed conspiratorially and then laughed again.
"You're laughing at me too much today." He pouted but he loved her laugh.
"Not at you, because of you. That's different." She said and fastened her bracelet.
"Sounds the same to me." Daiki was struggling with his; the fastening clip was not made to be handled by his big hands.
Aya took his hands with a kind smile and crawled opposite him. "Let me show you how…"
He observed what she did. "I could do that."
"Of course you could." Her eyes were totally teasing him. Intertwining their fingers she raised their hands with the matching bracelets so they could admire them. Different and yet the same. She wore hers on her right wrist and he on his left.
"Looks like we handcuffed each other." He noted with a smirk.
"Do you mind it?" She asked, switching her attention back to him. He looked so happy today, so free from any sour and bitter feelings. She loved him so much. She sat back, stretching her legs along the bed and leaned against his bent leg, not letting go of his hand and not averting her gaze.
Those clear red eyes were so enchanting, they looked like fire in this light. Burning and ever shifting flames. Warming, welcoming, but also scorchingly hot. He felt his throat dry up. "Do you?" His voice sounded deeper.
"You're not fair."
He chuckled; if they lived in middle ages she'd definitely get hunted for witchcraft. "Neither are you." He pulled at her hand. It was a barely noticeable gesture, and he wasn't sure what he wanted her to do or what he wanted to do. Even if they did nothing besides sitting and holding hands like this, he'd be completely content with how the day turned out.
"Neither am I…" She echoed quietly. Damn those dark eyes were so temptingly inviting her to come closer. To look deeper. To get drowned in the dark rough ocean. To let him decide if he'd let her drown or not. If she came closer she'd be in his mercy. Was he even aware of it? No, no he probably wasn't. But she still leaned in to kiss him.
"Thank you… for everything." She whispered just before her lips touched his. He felt the words more than heard them.
He'd been expecting something. Something more than usual, although 'usual' was still relatively new to both. But this was almost magical. There was no way he'd stop his enchantress. He loved the fact that she wanted to kiss him, touch him, and that she actually admitted it out loud. She was confident, he loved her, she believed him, in him. He wanted to thank her, to tell her just how much she meant to him. But he was never too good with his words. And right now, his kisses were the only way to convey it to her.
~~~~~Lemons~~~~~
Soft, thankful, loving at first, then turning into hungrier, deeper, longer. She understood those silent words. She could feel it in his kisses. Hungry, but gentle. Taking, but giving. She sighed in pleasure, almost overwhelmed by the emotions. Their breaths became shorter. She moved her lips along his jaw and down his neck, leaving a trail of kisses. It lured out a low growl from the back of his throat. He loved when she kissed his neck. It was sending a tingling sensation down his spine he'd never felt before. And it did strange things to him, but he loved it. He could feel she smiled against the crook of his neck, her breath tickling him a little and then she bit him gently. It didn't hurt, but it forced another sound out of him, and he decided she was being way too quiet.
His hands found her waist and she was too far away in his opinion, so he pulled her closer. He wanted to feel her against his body. But he pulled her a bit stronger than he first intended and with a squeal she lost her balance, falling forward. If his back wasn't leaning against the bed they'd probably topple backwards. And he would enjoy it.
"Sorry?" He breathed out, surprised his lungs couldn't seem to get him enough oxygen, but he didn't mind it in the slightest.
She was fully pressed against his torso and her forehead was resting above his heart. His body felt so hot already. She looked up at him, feeling his heart hammering in his ribcage as their kisses were getting more passionate, more demanding. Hers was not better. She was excited and a bit scared at the same time.
"You're so not." She was equally out of breath and she grinned mischievously. She pulled herself up and licked his ear, softly biting his earlobe.
"Tch…" He pulled her down into his arms, cradling her like an overgrown kid with her legs sticking too far out, and attacked her neck and free skin of her chest with kisses. Biting her here and there.
She laughed and squirmed in his arms, "hiiii… don't bite mee. Hey, it tickles!" at first she was fighting him a bit, but he grabbed her hands, restraining her for a moment. His chest rumbled with laughter too but then he stopped fooling around, let go of her wrists and returned to giving her proper attention. And no silly bites. She dived her fingers into his hair, encouraging him and leaning her head backwards to give him better access.
He could pick up what she liked rather quickly. Her legs bent, her knees coming a bit wider apart, and he just loved her pleased sighs and her fingers massaging his scalp while he was focused on exploring every single millimeter of her neck. Aya closed her eyes enjoying his exploring, kisses, nibbles. A little clumsy at first but fastly growing in confidence and so arousing. Using his tongue, he managed to lure soft moans out of her. Apparently, the neck wasn't just his weak spot.
When he shifted to be more comfortable, she slid a bit away. Lying over him like this didn't give her much freedom to explore on her own. She wanted to touch him more too. With one hand going over her stomach unintentionally rolling up her top he grabbed her around the waist and pulled her back towards him.
It still wasn't exactly comfortable for either of them. An idea stroked her... "Uh… Wait." She pushed herself away, resting her hand against his chest.
"What?" He glanced at her, his eyes glazed over from all the new sensations. Did he hurt her? "Want to stop?" He asked, just to be sure. Honestly, this was already a lot more than he'd expected but… He still wanted more.
And it was clearly visible in his eyes.
"No." She refused the option immediately. Then she blushed and quickly looked at his crotch and back at him. He was already hard, or semi-hard, she couldn't tell for sure from one glance. There was no way he wanted to stop. It didn't cross her mind either. "Uhm… I just…" She didn't want to be too pushy or sound too… whory…
"Just what?" He asked softly, brushing loose strands of her hair away from her face. He was impatient by nature, but he couldn't imagine being rude or demanding in this situation. She wasn't really looking at him, and he wasn't used to seeing her… shy?
She glanced at him again, deciding to ask anyways. "Could I… uhm… Could I get on your lap?" She needed to get into a more comfortable position than sitting awkwardly at his side and sliding away whenever he moved... She wanted to face him. Climbing into the bed wasn't a bad idea either, but it was still too dangerous in her opinion. Especially when they hadn't talked about anything of the sort yet.
His eyes widened and he blushed at the idea too. He didn't have a full boner yet, but with her straddling him he would most certainly get one real fast. And as much as he wanted to do things to her, getting a boner in front of her was still an embarrassing idea.
"Won't you mind if I get… uhm… you know…" He glanced at his crotch dying of embarrassment.
She sat up, a side of her thigh bumping into his. That he got embarrassed like her, but didn't refuse right away, encouraged her. "...isn't it kind of the point of doing this?" She whispered to his ear, her breath tickling him. Then she gently bit his earlobe again and pulled a bit away. "But it's your choice." She said with a kind smile and there was not a speck of teasing there.
Why was he getting self-conscious of his dick? If she asked him, she most likely didn't mind. He didn't know what to expect of it, but he was curious and if sitting on his lap would be more comfortable for her...
He kissed her lips again and she took it as agreement. She swiftly threw one leg over his lap and straddled him. It actually made them almost equal in height. When she pressed against his crotch he gasped at the sensation. It was like nothing he'd ever felt. And she fitted around him so damn well.
"Whoa…" She rubbed herself against him to find the most comfortable position and while doing so she could feel him getting harder. His crotch was so warm already. And he was hiding quite something in his pants. She'd had a certain guess before, but now she could really feel him. It made her lower belly squirm with thrill. She knew she was wet already, but feeling him like this, it was just… Oh, yes…
He avoided her eyes. "S-sor–"
Her lips on his drowned his apology. She didn't want to hear it, because there was nothing to apologise for. She was just as horny. But he was still clueless about it.
She was unfair. So unfair. He wanted to touch her more, to feel her bare skin. His hands wandered under her top. And when his rough palms, calloused from years of playing basketball, caressed her sides and back she moaned, which only encouraged him further.
Yes, this definitely gave her more options to touch him too, in more ways than one. She was kissing his collarbones, his neck, his jaw. He seemed to particularly like when she kissed the spot right behind his ears. Her hands ran over his chest and abs. And each time he let out a low growl or grunt it was making her knees weak. She loved his husky voice. His lips. His skin. His scent. And his hands running along her torso. It sent electricity through her body and she wanted to touch and be touched even more.
She wanted to melt into him and to feel his skin too at the same time. Her hands found the hem of his t-shirt and she finally touched the bare skin of his sides and abs. Feeling all the muscles and the hairs under his navel... He was sweating a bit and his skin was burning hot. She wanted to feel more. She wanted that damn t-shirt off him.
Their touches were getting more chaotic, their breaths coming shorter, but neither minded.
As if reading her mind, he growled lowly, "oh, fuck it," and he pulled his t-shirt over his head throwing it at his bed. It was irritating when it hindered her hands which gave him so much pleasure.
"Ah, finally," she sighed contently and looked him up and down; hungry, admiring, appreciating. "…couldn't agree more." She hummed, her voice sounding so erotic at the situation. And to his very surprise she took her top off as well.
And he was gifted with the most beautiful sight in his life; Aya's boobs in an unbelievably alluring black lacy bra. His jaw almost hit the ground and he was probably close to drooling, it was his Aya. With her skin glistening with sweat. In a beautiful bra. Letting him stare and not trying to cover herself.
He seemed to be spirited away into his own dreamy land, and she observed that expression in amusement. It was high appreciation, almost awe, close to worshipping really. And it certainly boosted her ego over the roof. Being admired like this by the man she loved… There was nothing comparable to that feeling of joy and confidence.
When he snapped out of his daydreaming he looked at her, and those burning red eyes seemed ready to scorch him. "Beautiful…" He breathed out without thinking. "Just beautifully perfect."
Her eyes widened. She'd never expected those words to come out of his mouth.
He gasped embarrassed by his own words. The totally hot moment turned into a bit awkward – not sure what to do now – moment.
Then she breathed out in relief. "That's good to hear…"
"Hm?" He shifted a bit, rubbing his crotch against her and he bit his lip to hold back another growl. He was slowly getting overwhelmed by the arousal.
She moved closer, responding to his, probably unintentional movement, making him close his eyes and tilt his head slightly backward. Smiling, she rested her forehead against his. His hands were stroking her sides gently again and she cupped his face.
"Thought you were for more than just D-cups…" She said, teasing him a little, to get over the awkward moment.
"Nonsense." He opened his eyes and raised his head. Their noses were touching now. "Yours are magnificent… I'd..."
She leaned forward rubbing him again. "Want me to take it off?" She meant her bra and he understood that.
He leaned forward, burying his face in the crook of her neck. He stroked his nose against her collarbone, giving it a small peck. She smelled and tasted so good, he could eat her up. And those cute freckles. He wanted to kiss them all. He wanted to kiss other parts of her he couldn't get to while they were sitting like this. But he was already too hard to manage all that.
"Do you want to kill me today?" He growled, taking her hand and placing it over his heart. It seemed ready to jump out.
She took his hand and did the same. "Dunno who's killing who, Daiki." She hummed with a cute blush. It was one thing being in her bra, another offering to take it off. But his warm hand over her chest, where it hadn't dared to wander yet… she wouldn't mind him touching her breasts.
And now she used his name while leading his hand to her heart, chest… "Tch…unfair."
He leaned forward, his hand slipping from her chest into her loosened hair. The other hand traveled along her thigh and rested at her side right under the hem of her bra, but not going further. He'd made his decision. Then he claimed her lips again; the passion and love knocking her breath away. She loved him. She could feel he loved her just as much.
She moaned, enjoying his hands and his slight pulling of her hair. His hips rolled against hers. It was most likely unintentional and instinctual, because his erection was already too much. He wanted to go off and his body responded on its own. And she could tell he probably didn't need much more to come. She used the floor as her steady support and she responded to his movement.
"Aya, what…" He growled staring at her, in surprise, but she encouraged him by pressing against him harder, more demanding. She smiled and placed her fingers over his lips, stopping any words coming out.
"I like it too." Her breath was coming short from all the kissing and stimulation. But she leaned forward and kissed him behind his ear, which made him shudder with pleasure. "...so if you want to get off... don't stop." She breathed out.
Honestly, her saying that, in that voice, totally burst any of his attempts to restrain. She basically invited him to dry hump her. And when he moved in a certain way she made one the most beautiful moans he'd heard that day. He didn't need anything more than that.
He grabbed her hips to feel her as much as he could through the layers of clothes. He got a bit rougher, a bit faster. But she responded to him, and it sounded like she liked it just as much. Even despite the clothes in the way, the feeling he got was beyond anything he'd ever felt. It was so different from jerking off on his own. Hearing her pleasure was adding so many volumes to it.
When he knew he was about to reach his climax, he buried his face in her neck and hair. With one last hard stroke and a really deep growl he arched and his body tensed. His mind went totally blank as he got over the edge. So far... It was the best orgasm of his life.
Aya'd have needed a bit more to get there, but… It was Daiki's first such experience, and it was his birthday. His day. Feeling all the emotions and seeing him come thanks to her was satisfying enough, even though she didn't get to really see him or directly touch him. She hugged him, drawing circles on his back, scratching him tenderly waiting until he'd come back from his high. With a smile he couldn't see, she was calming down.
He could feel his underwear being totally ruined, but he couldn't care less. His breath was slowly getting back to normal, his muscles relaxing.
~~~~End of lemons~~~~
Then he realised what had just happened and he blushed terribly. He squeezed his eyes shut and he wasn't sure he wanted to look at her right away. Has she… too?... He wondered, and came to the conclusion that most likely not, because there was no way he'd miss to look at her. He felt bad that he was the only one getting all the pleasure in the end.
"Uuhm…" He hummed against her skin.
"Mhm?"
"You… you didn't…?" He wanted the earth to swallow him.
She wanted to push him away to see his expression, but he was a stubborn mule and a heavy guy, and unless he leaned back himself she was totally stuck and unable to do anything about it. And because she didn't see him, she had no idea how to answer. She didn't want to make him feel, well, useless… Because that was not true. She enjoyed it thoroughly too, even though she didn't come.
"...it's my turn next time." She said, because lying was not an option. He could see through her all too well already.
"So you didn't…" He mumbled.
"Dammit, Daiki." She groaned, forcing herself to not scold him like a little kid, for his behaviour in the moment, because he could get it completely wrong. Cheering him up would be equally awkward. "Look at me!" That was an order.
And no matter how embarrassed and mortified he felt he raised his head.
She cupped his cheeks and forced him to look her in the eyes. "Do I look dejected? Unsatisfied?"
He was totally red, but he had to admit that if anything, she was shining in a strange enchanting way. There was no dejection.
"Good. Because… I. Loved. Every. Single. Second." She said slowly, nodding after every word. And waited until she saw he believed it. "I love you. Do you get it?"
He nodded. "I love you too, you know… I wanted you to… well… uhm..."
She chuckled at his straightforward honesty followed by embarrassed babbling. "Next time…" She looked at him challengingly. "You're taking care of me, my dear."
He stared at her for a moment, and then a smirk spread on his face.
Aaaand, he can get back to his cocky self in a matter of seconds… She was amazed, really.
"Why not now?"
She pointed her thumb at the door where the dogs were staring at them with certain alarm and shock on their faces, holding their leashes in their mouth and patiently waiting to get their daily evening walk. "I believe someone wants to go for a run."
He paled… It was always creepy for him when the dogs observed him, so he always threw them out, but… "How long were they there?"
Aya shrugged when she'd noticed them a second ago her heart almost leapt out. "I have no idea, but I'm very pleased they didn't try to join in," because she wouldn't stand another interruption like that.
"I need a shower first…" He said.
"I'm not sure I'll let you." She teased, still straddling him.
"I can get up regardless of that, you know."
"Yeah, yeah." She yielded and got up, because she didn't need a demonstration of that.
His knees felt like jelly when he was getting up. He'd never felt like that after coming. When he looked at her, she already had her top back on. He sighed dejectedly. "I didn't get to see them…"
"Huh?"
He motioned his hands cupping her boobs.
"You could've…" She chuckled.
"I know." He whined. "I know... I'm a damn idiot."
She rather didn't reply to that one.
######
"Uhmmm…"
"What's up?" She asked Derek once she got in the car.
"Err… your hair… you should let it down." He said with a blush and looked away. He didn't want to know what happened, but she certainly looked livelier than before. And her lips were swollen.
"Huh, what?"
"You have a mark, here." He pointed at a spot slightly above his own collarbone.
"Shit! I didn't tell him…" She swore and then silenced herself. Derek was really the last person she'd share something like this with. Though she appreciated he let her know. Damn you, Honey-bun… She cursed him inwardly, because he must've seen it, and he smugly, feeling proud of himself hadn't told her a thing! "Don't tell Haruka a thing, understood?"
"I've seen nothing, miss." He saluted and an amused smile twitched the corner of his lips.
######
Kise called Daiki in the late evening. And for some stupid reason the ace actually picked up.
"What?"
"Aominecchi! Are you sure you still don't want to ask me anything?"
"How d' y'…" He stammered, too shocked to just hang up.
The blonde on the other end laughed. "I can sniff things like that, and Ayacchi's eyes were all over you… So, how was your birthday with your girl?"
For a second he was actually considering asking something, because 'the next time' was kind of bugging him, but… It was Kise. He didn't want Kise's words of wisdom. Not today. "…go to hell." He was hanging up but he heard Kise's last smug words at which he got chills of dread.
"I'll be waiting!"
A/N: I hope no one was too OOC... This chapter is sort of focused on fluff than anything else, I hope you don't mind. Plus, I'm not very comfortable with writing lemons, buuut it was requested and it is a big part of any relationship... Overall, it got too long, I know, I'm sorry. I should get on with the canon sometime soon already.
I don't know for sure if the next chapter will be on time or late again... Even though we're facing some sort of pandemic, I can work from home, so there's no "slowing down" for me, and no additional time for writing. Buut we're back on "normal working hours" - 8h a day, so it should get better.
I hope everyone is healthy and safe during these 'pandemic' times.
Let me know what you think and remember, reviews are appreciated, but never necessary.
S.