Author Notes: Meisawa fluff makes me smile.

This is set during Act II. It takes place the night after Eijun's first game as the ace.

This is part of my That Sky series, but you don't need to read the other parts to read this part.

I hope y'all enjoy it!

That Irresistible Summer Sky

Eijun felt confused.

Like last year, Mei demanded he go out on a date with him to the summer festival.

Mei also did it during their phone call.

He, of course, felt happy about getting to see Mei again and was looking forward to their date.

Maybe Mei wanted to go to the summer festival with him again?

But…

Mei had heard about his disastrous first game as the ace.

(Eijun had expected Mei to scold him. Maybe even brag about his first game as the ace. To his surprise, Mei had frowned, his eyes darkening. He had demanded he go out on a date with him after that.)

Was he… trying to cheer him up?

This had happened last year, too.

Maybe it was a coincidence?

"Huh~ You look cute."

Eijun turned his head at the unfamiliar voice, blinking a few times at seeing a guy around his age. "Eh?"

The guy stepped closer, grinning. He looked taller than both him and Mei by a few centimeters. "Are you here alone? Let's hang out."

Eijun didn't know why, but he had a bad feeling about this guy. "Sorry. I'm waiting for someone."

Maybe it was the way the guy looked him up and down?

The guy furrowed his eyebrows before stepping closer. "I'm sure your friends will understand. Come on."

"I'm actually waiting for my boyfriend." Eijun stepped away, not liking how close the guy was to him. He looked around the front of the shrine, hoping to find Mei, his face dropping when he didn't see him yet.

(Eijun had arrived at the shrine a little early, but Mei should be arriving any minute. Where was he?)

The guy didn't take the hint, stepping closer, causing Eijun to step away again. "Oh, so you are into guys."

"I'm only interested in my boyfriend." Eijun frowned deeply. "Find someone else."

The guy smirked, looking him up and down again, almost causing Eijun to squirm. "I'm sure he won't mind if I have some fun with you."

Was he…?

Eijun glowered. "What part of I'm only interested in my boyfriend do you not understand? Leave."

"… Fine." The guy clicked his tongue. "I'll leave you alone. We'll see each other again anyway." He winked. "And I hope you'll change your mind, cutie."

The guy walked into the festival grounds, his cocky gait reminding him of Mei's cocky gait.

Eijun huffed.

That guy certainly shared some personality traits with Mei, but other than that, he was nothing like Mei.

"Eijun!"

He looked away from the bustling summer festival, eyes lighting up at seeing Mei walking toward him. "Mei!" He ran toward him, hugging him once close enough, causing Mei to let out a surprised sound.

"Eijun?"

He shivered, tightening his grip around him briefly before pulling away, his lips twitching as Mei hugged him back. "It's good to see you."

Mei furrowed his eyebrows. "It's good to see you too. Is something wrong?"

"I…" Eijun almost didn't tell him, worried about Mei's reaction. "Some guy just hit on me."

He trusted Mei, though, and didn't want to keep any secrets from him.

Mei's eyes widened. "What?" He looked him up and down, causing him to blink. "Are you alright?"

"I'm alright." Eijun's eyes softened. "He didn't touch me, Mei."

Mei huffed, pulling him closer, the corners of his lips twitching when Eijun let out an approving sound. "He's got some nerve trying to steal my boyfriend."

Eijun shivered at his possessive words. "I told him I'm only interested in you."

"I bet that made him happy," Mei said sarcastically. He raised an eyebrow. "What kind of guy was it?"

Eijun made a face. "A cocky jerk."

"A cocky jerk, huh?" Mei hummed before smirking. "Nothing like me, right?"

Eijun shook his head, a serious look on his face. "He was nothing like you."

Mei's eyes widened, as if he hadn't expected that response. He smirked a few moments later, tightening his grip around him briefly. "Not that I'm surprised. Everyone pales in comparison to me."

"Why do I like you again?" Eijun rolled his eyes good-naturedly.

Mei kissed his forehead before kissing his lips for a few moments, his smirk widening when Eijun chased after his lips. "You like my massive ego."

"Yeah, that's totally why I like you more than someone else," Eijun said sarcastically, causing him to snicker. His eyes softened. "You wouldn't be Mei if you didn't have a massive ego."

Mei stared at him for a few moments, causing him to blink and tilt his head. He cleared his throat before kissing him, Eijun kissing him back.

They kissed softly, Eijun almost smiling into the kiss when Mei pulled him closer.

After what happened during his first game as the ace…

… Well, that and his strained relationship with his teammates.

It was nice to get out of Seidou for a little bit.

(His teammates still didn't like or approve of his relationship with Mei. Eijun had told them he wouldn't break up with Mei and refused to speak to them whenever they brought it up. They, of course, set aside their differences whenever it came to baseball, but it was… hard being around them lately.)

The summer tournament was going on, and everyone was busy with baseball.

Including him and Mei.

They had agreed to put baseball first, focusing on their practices and games.

They still managed to meet up for an evening date a couple of days before Seidou's first game, though, so it had only been three days since he last saw Mei.

Eijun let out a surprised sound as Mei bit his bottom lip, Mei's tongue darting into his mouth.

Mei's tongue explored his mouth for a little bit before touching his tongue, causing him to moan.

Three days…

Considering their busy schedules and the distance between them, Eijun was used to waiting longer periods of time.

Then why?

Why did his heart miss Mei so much?

Maybe it was because of the situation with his teammates?

Mei pulled away several moments later, smirking. He blinked a few times before furrowing his eyebrows and touching his cheek with a hand. "What is it?"

"Eh?"

Mei rolled his eyes good-naturedly, his eyes soft as Eijun held onto his hand. "You look unhappy." He huffed. "Why do you look unhappy after kissing me?"

"I…" Eijun sighed, closing his eyes briefly. "I was thinking about how much I missed you."

Mei hummed before raising an eyebrow. "What else?" When Eijun's eyes widened, he scoffed, poking his cheek gently. "Why do you look surprised? I know you well. I know something else is bothering you."

Eijun flushed.

Mei knew him that well?

"I was…" Eijun tightened his grip around Mei briefly. "I was also thinking about my teammates."

Mei's eyes darkened. "Is that so? Are they still giving you a hard time?"

Eijun shook his head. "They seemed to understand after I stopped talking to them whenever the subject was brought up."

"Eh?" Mei raised an eyebrow. "You're giving them the silent treatment?"

Eijun rolled his eyes. "No, you idiot. I already told them how I feel about you and that they couldn't change my mind. We're… somewhat back to normal."

"Somewhat?"

Eijun sighed. "We don't let it affect baseball, and for the most part, they treat me normally. It's just… Whenever you're brought up…"

Mei huffed, kissing his cheek. "Try not to let it get to you too much. They can't do anything about our relationship."

"I'm trying, Mei." Eijun frowned. "It's really hard, though. I know I don't need their approval, but…"

Mei clicked his tongue. "It would be nice to know that your teammates support your relationship."

"Yeah."

Mei hummed. "I can't promise you that everything will be alright. Or that all your teammates will eventually support our relationship." When Eijun flinched, he kissed his forehead, his eyes soft. "But I think it's too soon for you to give up."

Eijun huffed. "Who said anything about giving up?"

"I guess I was concerned for no reason." Mei laughed softly. "I don't know your teammates well, but I'm sure some of them will change their minds eventually."

Eijun tilted his head. "You think so?"

"Well…" Mei grinned cheekily. "They're not that stupid. They'll eventually see how happy you are with me."

Eijun huffed again, the corners of his lips twitching despite himself. "Don't insult my teammates, you ass."

Mei laughed loudly, letting go of him and holding out his hand. "Are you ready?"

Eijun, who was about to answer, froze, his eyes widening and his breathing hitching.

He had been too happy and relieved to see Mei earlier that he didn't even realize what Mei wore.

Mei wore a blue jinbei with dark blue vertical stripes, Eijun's mouth drying up at noticing the color matched Mei's eyes.

He looked so attractive.

"Oi, did you hear me?"

Eijun wished he could've responded, as he knew gaping at Mei's good looks would only boost his already massive ego. Unfortunately, his tongue refused to work, causing him to curse inwardly.

"Oh, I get it." Mei smirked, causing Eijun to close his mouth and flush. "See something you like?" He struck a pose before turning around and briefly pulling up the kimono style top, Eijun gulping at noticing how the shorts fit snugly on Mei's waist and drew attention to his attractive ass. He turned back around, winking. "It looks good on me, huh?"

Eijun looked away briefly. "I… You… That's…"

Mei grabbed his chin, tracing his lips with his thumb. "What do you think, Eijun?" His smirk widened as Eijun shivered. "I'm waiting."

"I… You look good." Eijun looked him up and down again, eyes softening at noticing the leather bracelet around Mei's left wrist. "Very attractive."

Mei flushed, his eyes lighting up. "Thank you." He smirked again. "I already knew I looked attractive, but I'm happy you think so, too."

"Cocky jerk," Eijun muttered, looking away.

Mei squeezed his hand gently, causing him to look back at him, his chest warm at his soft look. "You look very attractive, too."

"Eh?" Eijun's flush darkened, but he smiled a bright smile. "You think so?"

Mei looked him up and down, Eijun standing up straight. "You look good in black."

Eijun wore a black jinbei with white vertical stripes. He had almost chosen a gray jinbei, but now he felt glad he didn't.

Eijun's smile brightened (if it was possible). He wrapped his arms around Mei's back, kissing him gently for a few moments. "Thank you, Mei."

Mei winked. "You look almost as attractive as me."

"You…" Eijun groaned, causing Mei to snicker. "Don't ruin the moment, you ass."

Mei laughed, kissing the corner of his mouth, grinning cheekily at his pout. "It's the truth."

"Are you ready?" Eijun pulled away from him, still pouting.

Mei kissed his cheek, holding out his hand. "Come on. Don't pout. I want us to enjoy tonight's date."

"Well, maybe you should've thought about that before ruining the moment." Eijun stepped closer, holding his hand.

Mei hummed as they walked into the festival grounds. "I'll make it up to you."

"You better." Eijun's lips twitched despite himself.

They decided to get some food first, Mei rolling his eyes good-naturedly as Eijun tugged him over to the takoyaki booth.

After buying a couple of containers as well as some yakisoba at a different booth, Mei led the way to a small open space between festival booths, grinning cheekily when Eijun's eyes widened.

"Is this…?"

Mei squeezed his hand gently as they sat down on the bench. "It's the same spot as last year." His eyes softened. "It's good no one's using it right now, huh?"

"Yeah." Eijun's voice was soft. His chest felt warm, and he knew it had nothing to do with the warm temperature.

Mei grabbed a takoyaki with a stick, blowing on it gently before raising an eyebrow at him. "What is it?"

Eijun squeezed his hand gently. "You remembered."

"Of course I did." Mei furrowed his eyebrows. "Did you think I wouldn't?"

Eijun shrugged. "You didn't return my feelings."

"So?" Mei huffed. "How many times do I have to tell you? You're different." His eyes softened. "I remember all our dates."

Eijun's eyes widened. "Mei…"

He had, of course, known that even though Mei didn't return his feelings back then, Mei still cared about him and liked him enough to date him.

Mei himself saying that those dates meant something to him and that he remembered them, though…

His chest felt warm with affection and happiness.

"Now are you going to eat this takoyaki or not?" Mei gave him a pointed look. "Because I don't mind—"

Eijun leaned over, eating it off the stick, his eyes lighting up at the taste. "These are good!" He tilted his head as Mei stared at him. "Mei?"

Mei laughed loudly, shaking his head, causing him to blink. "I can't believe I fell for that again!" He chuckled at Eijun's confused look, holding out the stick. "Here."

Eijun didn't understand why Mei laughed, but he grabbed the stick from him, picking up another takoyaki and blowing on it gently.

At his expectant look, Mei grabbed his wrist, pulling his arm closer before leaning in and eating the takoyaki in one bite. "These are pretty good. I'm glad they're still warm."

Eijun blinked before snickering.

"What?"

Eijun gestured toward his lips. "You have some sauce on your lips."

Mei hummed before grinning cheekily. "Why don't you get it for me? I know how much you like it."

"With pleasure." Eijun grinned devilishly, his tongue darting out and licking Mei's lips. Once finished, he pulled away, smirking at Mei's surprised look. "What? Didn't think I'd do it?"

Mei licked his lips, Eijun flushing despite himself. "I was about to say I'm surprised you didn't blush when I asked." His cheeky grin returned to his face. "But never mind. You're blushing."

"That's…" Eijun shot him a dirty look. "That's because you just licked your lips."

Mei snickered. "You're so cute."

Eijun's flush darkened. "Are you making fun of me!"

Mei laughed, causing Eijun to frown.

Cocky jerk.

After eating the food (and kissing some more), they explored the festival some more, holding hands the whole time.

"What do you want to do now?" Mei looked around them at all the booths. "A game?"

Eijun's eyes lit up. "I want to play that one game!"

Mei looked at him, furrowing his eyebrows. "Which one?"

Eijun squeezed his hand gently. "The one from last year. You know? The—"

"Oi, Raichi! Look in front of you as you walk!"

Eijun blinked at the familiar voice, turning his head in the direction of it only to bump his head against something hard, causing him to wince and step back despite himself.

"Eijun!"

He shivered, belatedly feeling Mei's arm around his waist. He looked over at him, wincing and rubbing his head. "I'm alright, Mei."

Mei moved his hand out of the way, kissing his head, causing Eijun to flush. "Are you sure?"

"Kahaha! It's Sawamura!"

Eijun furrowed his eyebrows at the familiar laugh, looking away from Mei, his eyes widening at recognizing the boy in front of him. "Eh? Todoroki?"

Mei let go of his waist, only holding his hand now. "What are you doing here?"

Todoroki looked at Mei, his eyes widening. "Narumiya Mei's here, too!" He grinned. "This is great!"

"Oi, Raichi!" Sanada-san walked over to them. "I keep telling you to—" He blinked, noticing them for the first time. "Eh? Sawamura and Narumiya?"

Todoroki grinned at him. "I bumped into them!"

Mei clicked his tongue, tightening his grip on his hand briefly for some reason. "Literally. You didn't even apologize."

"Is that so?" Sanada-san furrowed his eyebrows before frowning at Todoroki. "Raichi, you need to be more careful."

Todoroki frowned, almost looking sad. "I'm sorry, Nada-senpai."

"Don't apologize to me." Sanada-san gestured to them. "Apologize to them."

Todoroki looked at them. "I'm sorry."

Mei huffed. "You should be more careful. You could've hurt him."

"Mei, it's alright." Eijun smiled softly at Mei, missing Sanada-san's surprised look. He looked at Todoroki. "I'm alright. Next time, be more careful."

Sanada-san rubbed the back of his head. "I'm sorry about Raichi, Sawamura. He's not a bad guy. He just got a little too excited."

Todoroki smiled toothily. "Nada-senpai promised me chocolate bananas."

"Is that so? I don't blame you for running off on your own." Eijun grinned at him. "Those chocolate bananas are good." He looked at Sanada-san. "It's alright. I wasn't looking where I was going either. It's just as much my fault as it is his."

Todoroki's eyes sparkled. "Sawamura likes those chocolate bananas, too?"

Sanada-san looked surprised for some reason before smiling. "I see. I'm glad you're alright." He looked at Mei, frowning. "I'm surprised to see you here, Narumiya."

"Don't worry." Mei smirked. "I've been practicing enough so that Inashiro won't lose to anyone. Not that you guys stand a chance against me, considering your performance during the spring tournament."

Eijun huffed, elbowing Mei. "Mei, stop being rude." He looked at Sanada-san, unsurprised to see him glaring at Mei. "I'm sorry about him."

Sanada-san blinked, looking between them before looking at their joined hands. "Now that you mention it… What kind of relationship do you guys have?"

Eijun flushed at his pointed look. "Uh… We're actually—"

"Dating." Mei's smirk widened at their surprised faces.

Todoroki blinked a few times before laughing for some reason. "That's amazing!"

Sanada-san gave Mei what looked like a suspicious look. "I see." He looked at Eijun. "Congrats."

… What was that about?

Eijun's flush darkened, but he smiled brightly. "Thank you very much!" He blinked, remembering something. "Come to think of it… I heard Yakushi won their first game. Congratulations."

He certainly didn't expect to bump into Todoroki and Sanada-san tonight, but he didn't mind them knowing about his relationship with Mei.

(His teammates already know about it. Besides, he didn't think Todoroki or Sanada-san would tell the media about their relationship.)

"Thank you. I heard Seidou won as well." Sanada-san grinned at him. "Congrats."

Todoroki grinned. "Kahaha! Congrats!"

Eijun rubbed the back of his head. "Ah… Thank you very much." At Sanada-san's confused look, he shrugged. "I didn't do too well." He felt Mei squeezing his hand gently, almost causing him to smile.

"Oh, that's right. I heard what happened." Sanada-san blinked before stepping closer, smiling at him, seemingly either ignoring or missing Mei's glare. "I wouldn't worry. It was your first game as the ace."

Todoroki pointed at him, causing Eijun to blink. "We won't lose. Even if you've gotten more awesome."

Eijun huffed. "We won't lose either. I won't let you hit off me."

"I think that's impossible. You're not me," Mei muttered, grinning cheekily when Eijun shot him a dirty look.

Todoroki's stomach grumbled, causing them to look at him. He flushed before looking at Sanada-san. "Nada-senpai, you promised me chocolate bananas."

Sanada-san laughed for some reason, his eyes fond (if Eijun wasn't imagining things). "Alright, alright. Let's get going." He looked at Eijun, raising an eyebrow. "Do you want to come?" He winked, causing Mei to glare at him. "I'll treat you."

"Come, Sawamura!" Todoroki smiled toothily. "Let's eat chocolate bananas together!"

Eijun glanced at Mei. "I'd love to, but we're—"

"I don't know if you noticed, but we're on a date." Mei glowered at Sanada-san who only grinned at him. "And if he wanted a chocolate banana, he would ask me."

Sanada-san shrugged. "That's too bad." He winked at Eijun again. "I wanted to talk to Sawamura some more."

Eijun's eyes widened before sparkling. "Eh? Really?" He felt Mei tightening his grip on his hand.

"I can give you some pitching tips." Sanada-san grinned, causing Mei to shoot a dirty look at him. "From one ace to another."

Eijun smiled brightly. "Wow, that would be great! But…" He furrowed his eyebrows, glancing at Mei again. "I'm sorry, but I'm on a date right now."

"Bring Narumiya with you," Sanada-san suggested. "He said he'll buy you a chocolate banana." He stepped closer, causing Mei to glower at him. "I want to talk to you some more."

Todoroki looked at Sanada-san, confused before grinning at Eijun. "We can talk about baseball, Sawamura!"

Eijun frowned. "I'd love to, but I'm on a date." He smiled apologetically. "Maybe next time."

"I see." Sanada-san frowned before smiling at him. "In that case, I understand. Let's go, Raichi."

Todoroki furrowed his eyebrows, looking between Eijun and Sanada-san. "He's not coming?"

"You heard him. They've got the rest of their date to get to." Sanada-san frowned, causing Mei to smirk. "Come on. I promised to treat you to those chocolate bananas."

Todoroki beamed at the mention of the chocolate bananas. "Chocolate bananas! I'm looking forward to eating them!" He took off in the opposite direction. "I'll find them and eat them!"

"Oi, Raichi! Wait up!" Sanada-san shook his head, smiling. "Geez, that kid…" After saying goodbye to them, he took off after Todoroki.

Eijun rolled his eyes before looking at Mei, unsurprised to see Mei glaring in the opposite direction. "Mei…"

Mei frowned at him. "What was that about?"

"Eh? What do you mean?"

Mei shot him a dirty look. "You looked happy when he mentioned wanting to talk to you some more."

Eijun rubbed the back of his head. "Well, you know I look up to him."

"What about me!"

Eijun rolled his eyes good-naturedly. "I look up to you, too, you idiot. You know you're special to me."

Mei huffed, the corners of his lips twitching (much to Eijun's relief). "I'm a much better pitcher than him, and I mean a lot to you!"

"You do." Eijun pulled him close, hugging him. "No one can replace you."

Mei clicked his tongue, hugging him back, the corners of his lips twitching as Eijun let out a happy sound. "Of course they can't. I'm a lot better than they'll ever be."

"Better at what?"

Mei smirked. "Pitching."

Eijun laughed loudly, causing Mei to furrow his eyebrows. "You forgot something else."

"Something else?"

Eijun's eyes softened. "You're a great boyfriend."

"Great?" Mei pouted, leaning in closer, causing him to look away briefly. "Don't you mean the best in the world?"

Eijun pretended to think for a few moments before shaking his head, grinning devilishly. "I wouldn't call you the best boyfriend in the world." When Mei continued pouting, his grin softened into his soft smile. "Yet. I'm sure one day you will."

"… Yeah." Mei frowned. "I guess I still need to work on it." His eyes softened. "Thank you for believing in me."

Eijun kissed his forehead before kissing his cheeks. "I'll always believe in you, Mei. Besides, I should be thanking you."

"Eh? For what?"

Eijun gestured to where Todoroki and Sanada-san stood. "For being patient. And for not letting your jealousy and possessiveness get the best of you."

Mei sighed. "I promised you I would work on it. It was so hard, though." His eyes darkened. "Especially when he kept flirting with you."

Eijun's eyes widened. "Eh? Sanada-san wasn't flirting with me."

"He was definitely flirting with you." Mei clicked his tongue. "I'm not surprised you couldn't tell."

Eijun furrowed his eyebrows, remembering how Sanada-san interacted with him. "I think he was only joking." When Mei scoffed, he frowned deeply. "I mean, I don't know him that well, but it felt like he was only joking."

Mei rolled his eyes. "If he was only joking, why did he keep moving close to you and winking?" He narrowed his eyes. "I thought he might touch you at some point."

"Probably because of you?"

Mei's eyes widened. "Eh?"

"Well…" Eijun let go with one arm, tapping his chin. "Maybe he wanted to get back at you." He gave him a pointed look. "Especially after you mentioned how they lost to you."

Mei blinked a few times before his jaw dropped, causing Eijun's lips to twitch. "You mean he pretended to flirt with you?" He scoffed. "What a sore loser."

"It worked, didn't it?" Eijun grinned devilishly. "I'd say he was successful at getting back at you."

Mei narrowed his eyes. "You're just saying that because you enjoyed his attention," he accused.

"Well, that and seeing you lose." Eijun's grin widened as Mei clicked his tongue, looking away from him. His eyes softened. "I was happy, you know."

Mei huffed. "What, seeing me lose?"

Eijun shook his head, forcing Mei to look at him, smiling softly when Mei looked into his eyes. "He could tell how much you like me by just looking."

"Isn't that obvious?" Mei frowned. "You know I really like you."

Eijun's soft smile remained on his face. "It still made me happy."

"You…" Mei rolled his eyes good-naturedly before kissing his forehead. "You're so simple." He grinned cheekily. "Not that I'm surprised. You're from the country."

Eijun glared at him. "Don't insult Nagano!"

"I'm not insulting Nagano." Mei's grin widened at his suspicious look. "It's true." His eyes softened. "I promise I'll work on my jealousy and possessiveness."

Eijun's eyes softened. "Take your time, Mei. I'm not going anywhere." He tightened his grip around him briefly. "Besides… I like that you like me enough to get jealous."

Mei pouted. "I wish you'd get jealous more often. Do you even like me?" He laughed as Eijun hit his right shoulder. "I'm kidding."

"Ass."

Mei smirked. "I'm your ass." When Eijun shivered, he pulled him close. "I like it whenever you get jealous, you know." He winked. "Not only do I like that you like me enough to get jealous, but it turns me on."

Eijun flushed. "Pervert."

"It's not the same for you?" Mei raised an eyebrow. His smirk widened when Eijun glared at him. "You know what we could do? If you're uncomfortable—"

Eijun covered his mouth with his hands, his flush darkening. "W-We're not doing that!" He let go, turning around in Mei's embrace with a huff.

"Hey…"

Eijun bit his lip to stop the moan from escaping at hearing Mei's voice close to his ear.

(Sure, he liked the sound of Mei's voice. He didn't think he liked it that much, though.)

"Relax, okay?" Mei kissed the back of his head. "I was just teasing."

Eijun's lips twitched despite himself. "Where's my apology?"

"I'm sorry I teased you." Mei kissed the back of his pitching shoulder.

Eijun waited for a few moments before turning around, eyes softening at his sincere face. "I forgive you. Come on. Let's continue our date."

Mei let go of him, holding his hand again. "You wanted to play a game, right?"

"Oh, that's right!" Eijun's eyes lit up. "I wanted to play the baseball game!"

Mei furrowed his eyebrows as they walked. "The baseball game?"

"The game we played together!"

Mei let out an understanding sound, smirking. "You mean the game you lost?" His smirk widened at Eijun's dirty look. "I had fun ordering you around."

"Of course you did," Eijun muttered, rolling his eyes. "I'm not going to lose this time."

Mei's smirk remained on his face. "We'll see. I've gotten better since last year, you know."

"Well, I have, too." Eijun huffed. "So bring it on."

They bantered with each other on the way to the booth, Eijun forgetting about it as soon as they stepped in line, his body vibrating with excitement, causing Mei to laugh.

The man running the booth blinked a few times before grinning. "Oh, aren't you two the kids from last year?"

"You remember us, Oji-san?" Eijun tilted his head as they stepped up.

The man laughed. "I don't get a lot of kids doing a windup. Besides…" He looked at Mei. "I remember telling you about the best spot to watch the fireworks."

Mei nodded. "I remember, and we plan on doing it again this year."

"I'm so excited for the fireworks, Oji-san!" Eijun smiled brightly. "Last year's fireworks were really pretty!"

The man gave him a teasing grin. "Now is that because the fireworks were pretty or because of your boyfriend here?"

Eijun flushed, causing the man to laugh again. "A… A little bit of both."

Mei squeezed his hand gently, smiling softly when he looked over. "I enjoyed them, too. I wouldn't have enjoyed them as much if I was with another person."

"Mei…"

The man cleared his throat, causing them to look at him. "I'm sorry to break up the moment, but…" He grinned at their embarrassed faces. "Do you two want to play? I don't know if you'd want to kiss in front of everyone."

Eijun turned his head at his pointed look, his flush darkening at seeing the people waiting behind them. "W-We'll play!" He looked at Mei, squeezing his hand gently. "Right, Mei?"

"While I wouldn't mind kissing in front of everyone…" Mei grinned cheekily at his dirty look. "We don't want to cause any trouble, so we'll play."

The man laughed for some reason. "Well, the rules are the same as last year. Who wants to go first?"

Eijun glanced at Mei, frowning at his expectant look. "Fine, you ass. You can go first." He took out some change, dropping it onto the booth.

"Such a kind boyfriend," Mei said sarcastically, grinning cheekily as Eijun gave him another dirty look. He waited until the man stepped out of the way before adjusting the ball in his left hand and looking at the bottles. After looking around him a few times, he did a little windup motion.

Eijun's eyes widened as the ball knocked all the bottles over. "Wow." He flushed, belatedly realizing what he said and looking over at Mei, narrowing his eyes at Mei's smirk. "I-I mean… That's no big deal! I can do that, too!"

The man whistled, looking impressed (much to his annoyance). "Congratulations, kid! I haven't had that many people knock them all over, you know!" He gestured to the variety of prizes displayed around the back of the booth. "Feel free to choose any prize."

"I'll wait until he's had his turn," Mei said, stepping out of the way, that irritatingly attractive smirk still on his face.

Eijun clicked his tongue, dropping more change onto the booth. "I'll show him," he muttered, picking up the ball and adjusting it in his left hand before looking at the bottles. Like Mei, he looked around him a few times before doing a little windup motion.

The ball knocked over nine of the ten bottles, one bottle on the right side still standing. The lone bottle teetered a few times, Eijun hoping it fell. A few moments later, the bottle seemingly got its balance, staying in place, causing Eijun to let out a frustrated yell.

"Looks like I win again." Mei's voice sounded smug. "Not that I'm surprised."

Eijun huffed, glaring at him. "I'll win next time! You'll see!"

"Well, you can try, but I doubt it'll happen." Mei's smirk widened.

The man whistled again, causing them to look at him. "That was pretty good, kid! Congratulations!" He gave Eijun a teasing grin. "You did much better this year."

Eijun flushed, shooting Mei a dirty look when he snickered. "I've gotten better since last year."

"Yeah." Mei nudged his left shoulder with his right one gently. "This guy became Seidou's ace, Oji-san."

The man's eyes widened. "Is that so?" He grinned at Eijun. "Congratulations!"

Eijun's flush darkened, but he smiled brightly. "Thank you very much, Oji-san!"

"Don't forget to pick out your prizes! And I hope you come again!"

They nodded, Eijun smiling softly at him. "We will!"

After picking out their prizes, they walked away, Eijun waving at the man.

"That was a lot of fun." Mei grinned cheekily at him.

Eijun snorted. "You're just saying that because you beat me."

"You didn't have fun?"

Eijun looked away briefly. "I'm not saying I didn't, but…"

Mei squeezed his hand gently. "Don't pout. I think you did really well." He smirked. "Considering the king was your opponent."

"I'm not pouting!"

Mei laughed loudly, causing Eijun to click his tongue.

"Anyway, where do you want to go next?"

Mei hummed. "I want to do the lottery. You know? The one with the strings?"

"Eh?" Eijun's eyes widened. "Why would you want to play that game? You won't win anything good even if you win."

Mei snorted. "That's only if you're unlucky." He smirked. "Unlike you, I'm lucky."

Eijun rolled his eyes good-naturedly. "Fine. If you want to play that game that badly, who am I to stop you?"

"I knew you'd understand." Mei kissed his cheek, grinning cheekily.

As they made their way to the game, they talked to each other, wanting to catch the other up on what they had been doing lately. While they mainly talked about baseball, they also talked about their teammates, laughing at each other's anecdotes.

A couple of times, instead of laughing with Mei, Eijun watched Mei laugh, his eyes soft. He always enjoyed watching Mei laugh his real laugh. He wanted to hear that melodic sound all the time.

Whenever Mei laughed his real laugh, his face softened. It made him look younger and approachable.

(Not that Mei was normally unapproachable. He knew, though, a lot of people had trouble approaching Mei, especially an angry Mei.)

Mei's blue eyes would always be soft and warm, glinting with happiness and affection.

(Sometimes, though, depending on their conversation, his eyes glinted mischievously instead. Mei's cheekiness annoyed him a lot of the time, but he also… looked good like that. Because that cheekiness was a part of Mei's personality.)

And that smile…

Mei always smiled a soft, happy smile whenever he laughed his real laugh. It was like the one he always gave him, but it was slightly different.

Eijun always liked it whenever Mei smiled softly at him, but he also liked that smile, too.

That smile was never fake.

(He liked Mei's fake smiles, but they were nothing like his real ones.)

Mei never smiled that smile whenever he felt another emotion or was trying to hide something.

It was always… real.

"Oi."

Eijun blinked a few times, belatedly realizing Mei caught him staring. "Eh?"

"I know I'm attractive, Eijun…" Mei smirked as he shivered. "But are you staring at me for a particular reason?"

Eijun tugged him closer, kissing his cheek and smiling brightly. "I'm just admiring my boyfriend's good looks, that's all."

Telling the truth might make Mei smugger, but he felt happy he got to see Mei like this, and that Mei was with him.

Mei always made him happy, and he always looked forward to seeing him again.

(Just thinking about Mei was enough to put a smile on his face. His teammates always glared at him or made faces, as if they somehow knew he was thinking about Mei, but he didn't let their reactions bother him.)

Mei flushed, the corners of his lips twitching. "In that case… Stare as long as you'd like."

"I will!"

They arrived at the lottery a few moments later, Mei letting go of his hand to play the game.

After paying the man running the booth, Mei bent close to the strings, inspecting each one. He moved from one string to the next, humming.

Eijun felt his heart speed up at the way Mei bit his lower lip in thought, his tongue licking that lower lip occasionally.

He licked his lips, remembering how he had licked Mei's lips earlier.

He wanted to do that again.

He wanted to kiss him over and over until their lips turned red. Maybe he could even nibble those lips, and Mei would let out those attractive pleased sounds, clinging to him as he nibbled over and over.

Mei might even—

"I knew it!"

Eijun blinked a few times, Mei's triumphant voice bringing him out of his thoughts.

Mei grinned triumphantly, holding a small, red lollipop out to him. "I knew I'd win!"

Eijun flushed, looking away from him briefly.

What… was he thinking?

They couldn't do that in public.

Mei stepped closer to him, still holding out the lollipop. "Here."

"Eh?"

Mei rolled his eyes at his articulate response. "Hold out your hands, you idiot."

Eijun blinked before doing as told, his jaw dropping as Mei placed the lollipop into his hands. "What are you…?"

"Can't you tell?" Mei raised an eyebrow before placing his hands on his hips and puffing his chest out. "I won it for you."

Eijun's jaw dropped even further (if it was possible). "This… This is for me?" He furrowed his eyebrows. "But I thought…"

"Pretty good, huh?" Mei smirked. "And you thought I wouldn't win anything good."

Eijun's lips twitched. "You realize I won the same thing last year, right?"

"I still won." Mei's smirk widened. "You shouldn't underestimate me."

Eijun smiled softly despite himself. He leaned in, kissing Mei's lips gently, his soft smile still on his face when he pulled away a few moments later.

Mei gave him a wide-eyed look. "What was that for?"

"Thank you, Mei." Eijun's chest felt as warm as a cup of hot chocolate. Or as warm as those takoyaki he ate earlier. His heart cheered over and over, happy Mei won him a prize. "I'm really happy you won this for me."

Mei flushed, looking away briefly. "Of… Of course. Anything for you." He cleared his throat, smirking. "I managed to surprise you, huh?"

Eijun laughed softly, taking off the plastic wrapper and giving it a small lick. He let out a happy sound, his eyes lighting up at the sweet taste.

"What flavor is it?"

Eijun licked it again, throwing away the wrapper into a nearby garbage can. "Strawberry." At Mei's pout, he held out the lollipop, grinning devilishly. "I know you won this for me, but do you want to share it with me?"

Mei huffed, the corners of his lips twitching. "You're so impertinent. But…" He leaned in, giving the lollipop a long lick, grinning cheekily. "I suppose if you insist." He licked his lips, his grin widening when Eijun's eyes looked at his lips. "You're right. It's pretty good."

"Come on." Eijun held out his hand, flushing despite himself.

Sure, he had suggested it, but he didn't think Mei would agree to it.

They explored the festival some more, taking turns licking the lollipop.

It was strange.

Eijun thought he might feel embarrassed doing this with Mei in public.

He didn't feel embarrassed at all, though.

Sure, he had felt embarrassed at first, but now…

Maybe it was because he was with Mei?

Mei always demanded his attention and made him forget about the world around him.

(He couldn't remember how many times he had forgotten they were in public and kissed him. Not that Mei minded. Mei always felt smug whenever that happened, eagerly kissing him back and not allowing him to look away from him.)

After finishing the lollipop, they stopped by the shooting game booth, Eijun grinning devilishly as he tugged him over.

"Now it's my turn to win you something." He paid the man running the booth before letting go of Mei's hand to pick up the rifle. "What do you want?"

Mei blinked a few times before humming. "I wonder what would be good? I like those chocolate chip cookies." He tapped his chin. "But I like those lemon cookies, too."

Eijun huffed, tapping his foot. "Will you hurry up and decide?"

"Be patient. You told me you'd win me something." Mei smirked at him. "I get to take as long as I want."

Eijun groaned. "Fine. Just don't take too long."

He didn't want them to cause any trouble and hold up the line.

The shooting game booth was always a popular game at summer festivals, and it was one Eijun loved.

He didn't want to deprive anyone, especially the little kids, the chance to play the game.

"I know!" Mei pointed at a package of biscuits near the top of the prize display. "Get those for me!"

Eijun huffed. "Finally!" He looked at where Mei pointed at, furrowing his eyebrows. "You want some pocky?"

"It's perfect, isn't it?" Mei winked when he looked over at him. "We can play the pocky game."

Eijun's lips twitched. "It's not even Pocky Day. Besides, we're dating each other, you idiot."

"Exactly. We can kiss as much as we want." Mei smirked.

Eijun rolled his eyes good-naturedly. "Alright, fine. I'll get it for you." He held the rifle, aiming at the prize carefully. He closed one eye to line up his shot before shooting.

The cork hit the package of pocky in the middle, easily knocking it off the table, causing him to grin.

"How are you so good at this game?"

Eijun flushed at the compliment. "It's one of my favorites. I used to play it all the time back at the summer festivals in Nagano."

Mei furrowed his eyebrows before huffing. "I see. That makes sense."

"Mei?" Eijun tilted his head.

That was a weird reaction.

After accepting the pocky from the man running the booth, they stepped out of line, standing next to the game.

"Here, Mei." Eijun handed him the pocky before furrowing his eyebrows. "Is something wrong?"

Mei huffed again, looking away from him. "Nothing's wrong. I don't know what you're talking about." He looked back at him, grabbing his hand. "Come on. Let's go."

Eijun didn't move, giving him a serious look. "What happened?"

"… I was thinking about what you said." Mei frowned, glancing at their joined hands before tugging him closer. "I didn't think about it before, but were you…?"

Eijun smiled softly, stepping closer and kissing his forehead. "I only went with my friends." He squeezed his hand gently. "You're the first person outside of them to go with me."

"Are you serious?" Mei frowned deeply. "You didn't go out on any dates to the summer festival before you met me?"

Eijun furrowed his eyebrows. "Is it that surprising?"

Mei's eyes softened. "I don't mean that in a bad way. I'm surprised because you're really handsome and nice." He smiled softly as Eijun flushed. "I thought people would be lining up to ask you out."

"Well, I'm not you, you know." Eijun rolled his eyes. "Plus, Nagano isn't like Tokyo. I grew up with a lot of the same people."

Mei frowned. "None of them asked you out?"

"I guess they didn't see me as date material." Eijun shrugged before frowning deeply. "I thought you'd be happy."

Mei groaned, running his free hand through his hair. "I am happy, but…" He scoffed a few moments later. "Well, it's their loss. You're dating me now."

Eijun still felt confused.

He thought Mei would be happy (and smug) he hadn't gone with anyone before now.

Instead, Mei almost looked… offended for some reason.

(Mei was so weird sometimes.)

He wasn't Mei.

He didn't have people lining up to date him in middle school.

Eijun had gone out on a date before he met Mei.

But it wasn't a summer festival date.

It honestly didn't bother him.

(He liked that Mei was his first date to the summer festival, and he hoped Mei would be his only date from now on.)

"Not again!"

Eijun looked away from Mei, confused.

Three little kids (maybe elementary schoolers) stood in front of the shooting game booth, groaning.

"Why can't I knock it over?" one of them complained, pouting.

One with black hair nudged the one with brown hair. "Try again. You've still got some money left."

"… Alright! This time for sure!"

Eijun furrowed his eyebrows, watching the brown-haired kid.

Mei squeezed his hand gently. "What is it?"

The brown-haired kid picked up the rifle, aiming it at a prize before shooting.

Unlike his shot, the cork barely touched the prize, the prize staying still, causing the kids to groan again.

Now he understood.

Eijun smiled apologetically at Mei. "I'll be right back, Mei." Without waiting for a response, he let go of Mei's hand, walking over to them. "Would you like some help?"

The kids' eyes widened. "Eh? Really?"

"I happen to be good at this game." Eijun grinned proudly. "I can help you get whatever you'd like."

The black-haired kid nudged the brown-haired one. "You should accept, Kaito!"

Kaito looked up at him, eyes sparkling. "You can help me, Onii-chan?"

"Leave it to me!" Eijun bumped his chest with a fist before gesturing toward the prizes. "Which one do you want?"

Kaito pointed at a red masked action figure. "That one!"

(Was it from some anime? Maybe Itsuki would know.)

After paying the man, Eijun gestured for Kaito to come closer.

"I'll teach you how to shoot the rifle." At Kaito's worried look, he grinned. "Don't worry! It isn't hard!"

Kaito bit his bottom lip before stepping closer. "What do I have to do, Onii-chan?"

"Show me how you hold the rifle."

Kaito held the rifle, as if about to shoot it. "Like this."

Eijun hummed. "You're too tense." He kneeled next to him, patting his shoulders. "Relax your shoulders."

"Like this?"

Eijun grinned, feeling him relax. "That's right. Next is…" He held Kaito's arms, showing him how to hold the rifle. "You want to hold the rifle like this." He pointed at the action figure. "Once you get a good grip, close one eye to make sure you're aiming correctly."

Kaito furrowed his eyebrows, looking between him and the rifle. "What's next?"

"When you're ready, shoot. You want to hit the middle of the prize so that it falls over easily."

Kaito aimed carefully, even closing one eye before shooting it.

This time, the cork hit the middle of the action figure, easily knocking it off the table, causing the kids to cheer.

"I did it!" Kaito cheered, accepting the action figure from the man running the booth. He looked up at him, his eyes sparkling with happiness. "Thank you very much, Onii-chan!"

Eijun laughed loudly, puffing his chest out. "I told you I'm good at this game!" He smiled softly. "I'm happy for you, Kaito. Don't forget what I taught you, okay?"

"I won't forget, Onii-chan! Thank you very much!"

Kaito and his friends walked away from the shooting game booth, talking excitedly about what happened.

Eijun walked back over to Mei. "Sorry to make you wait, Mei."

Mei shook his head, holding his hand again, the fond look in his eyes causing him to flush. "You're good with kids."

"Eh? You think so?"

Mei kissed his cheek. "It was nice of you to help him." He pouted, tugging at his hand. "Did you have to leave me alone, though? We're on a date."

"Sorry. I felt bad for him." Eijun rubbed the back of his head. "I wanted him to like the game as much as I do. I couldn't ignore him."

Mei continued pouting. "So you chose to ignore me. I see how it is."

Eijun rolled his eyes good-naturedly. "Alright, alright. I promise I won't leave you alone for the rest of our date." He stepped closer, kissing his forehead. "How's that?"

"Not good enough." Mei huffed, the corners of his lips twitching. "If you want me to forgive you, you have to kiss me."

Of course.

Eijun kissed him gently for a few moments, almost smiling into the kiss when Mei's free hand touched his cheek. "What about that?"

"I guess I'll forgive you." Mei rubbed his cheek with his thumb, his eyes softening as Eijun leaned into the touch. "Don't do that again."

Eijun kissed his hand, keeping his eyes on him. "I won't. I promise, Mei."

It was a promise he intended to keep, as he didn't want to leave Mei's side for the rest of the night.

Eijun exclaimed over different things and pointed at booths that interested him as they walked.

Mei rolled his eyes a few times, but Eijun noticed the fond look in his eyes, causing his chest to feel warm.

Eijun's eyes lit up at the sight of the scaffolding. "That's right! This festival has dancing!"

"How did you forget that?" Mei snorted, shaking his head. "Don't you remember the performance we put on last year?"

Eijun furrowed his eyebrows. "Of course I remember. I was just…" He shook his head, tugging at Mei's hand. "Let's dance, Mei."

"Wait." Mei frowned. "Tell me what you were about to say."

Eijun groaned at his serious look. "I was just excited, okay?" He frowned, almost pouting. "I had a lot of fun last year, and I like dancing with you."

Mei grinned cheekily. "I'm not surprised. I'm a great dancer." His eyes softened as Eijun rolled his eyes. "I feel the same." He squeezed his hand gently. "Let's dance."

Eijun's eyes widened. He beamed a couple of moments later. "Yeah!"

He eagerly tugged Mei after him as he made his way to the scaffolding situated in the middle of the festival grounds.

The music they could hear as they explored the festival grew louder as they approached the scaffolding, Eijun hearing the familiar sounds of the taiko drum and flute.

Like last year, a lot of people danced around the scaffolding, Eijun having to look around for an unoccupied spot first.

He found the perfect spot a few moments later, causing him to grin devilishly.

He knew Mei would love it.

Once there, he squeezed Mei's hand gently. "What do you think?"

"I know what you're planning." Mei snorted. "You're so transparent."

Eijun turned to face him, his grin widening. "You approve, don't you?"

"Well, it's nice you found a spot away from other people." Mei grinned cheekily at his disappointed look. "I'm kidding. You know I enjoy a challenge."

Eijun smirked. "Then I'll have to surprise you." He let go of his hand, holding his hand up and looking at him expectantly.

Mei stepped closer, making their hands touch. "I'd like to see you try."

Eijun froze, his mouth drying up.

Mei… looked so handsome in the lantern light.

The lantern light illuminated his hair, making it look almost golden. His blue eyes glinted mischievously like continuous waves lapping the shore, wetting his ankles over and over. His cheeky grin lit up his face, those moist lips taunting him.

Mei's hand felt warm against his, Eijun belatedly realizing they had held up their pitching hands.

This hand…

He never wanted to let go of it.

Didn't want to give it up to anyone else.

"Eijun?"

He shivered, belatedly realizing Mei caught him staring again. "Y-Yeah." He cleared his throat, wanting to hate that smug smirk. "Let's dance."

Dance now.

Stare at his boyfriend later.

Their feet moved in unison as they walked around in a circle. First, they moved clockwise, Mei stepping backwards effortlessly. After forming the circle, they changed directions, Eijun moving backwards to help form the counterclockwise circle.

Eijun accidentally stepped on his zori, almost stumbling, causing Mei's lips to twitch. Shooting him a dirty look, he continued the dance, his heart fluttering at Mei's concerned look.

They let go at the same time, Eijun smiling softly before taking large steps.

Relief shined briefly in Mei's eyes, Mei copying him so that they circled each other.

Their silent faceoff only lasted a few moments, Mei surprising him by grabbing his collar and pulling him close, his breathing hitching at feeling Mei's warm body close to his and Mei's handsome face close to his own.

Mei narrowed his eyes, scrutinizing him for a little bit before kissing the top of his nose, grinning triumphantly at his disappointed look.

Cocky jerk.

Eijun huffed, stepping away from him and crossing his arms in front of his chest, pretending to look annoyed.

Mei's lips twitched, no doubt seeing through him. He stepped closer, holding out a hand.

Eijun waited until Mei stepped right in front of him, grabbing Mei's collar and pulling him close, grinning devilishly at Mei's surprised look. He leaned in, closing his eyes briefly, allowing his lips to hover over Mei's.

Mei's eyes widened, glancing between his eyes and his lips.

Eijun leaned in even closer, bringing their lips closer, stopping millimeters away from his lips. Mei, who had closed his eyes in anticipation, opened his eyes, furrowing his eyebrows when he stopped.

Eijun grinned devilishly at him again before pulling away, his grin turning into a smirk as Mei's jaw dropped.

Mei should've seen this coming, as he knew Eijun liked getting revenge.

A few moments later, Mei seemingly composed himself as he shot him a dirty look, his eyes gleaming dangerously.

Eijun shivered despite himself.

He knew Mei would never hurt him, but he still felt a little nervous (and excited) for what Mei had planned for revenge.

Mei smirked, licking his lips, his smirk widening as Eijun glanced at them.

Eijun stared at Mei's lips, tempted to step closer and kiss him. It wasn't until Mei cleared his throat, giving him a pointed look that he remembered they had been in the middle of a dance.

Mei's smirk returned to his face as he flushed. He held out his hands, squeezing his hands gently when Eijun gave him his hands. He swung their joined hands back and forth, grinning cheekily.

Eijun laughed, stepping forward when Mei stepped backward. When Mei stepped forward, he stepped backward.

They danced like that for a little while, Mei eventually letting their hands hover between them.

The music stopped, causing them to stop and the people standing nearby to clap.

Their dance had just started, though.

They let go of each other, Mei winking and holding out a hand.

Eijun grinned devilishly, bowing his head and kissing the top of his hand, amused as Mei flushed. He stayed like that, letting his lips linger on Mei's hand until the music started back up.

Mei waited until he gave him his hand, pulling him close, grinning cheekily at his wide eyes. He tilted his head, studying him, Eijun almost squirming at the blue eyes watching him.

Eijun blinked as Mei held his other hand, furrowing his eyebrows when Mei let go of his other hand to wrap his arm around him. He let out a startled gasp as Mei dipped him, his free arm clinging to Mei's shoulder despite knowing Mei wouldn't drop him.

Mei laughed loudly at his dirty look, pulling him close and kissing his cheek, smirking when Eijun glared at him.

Embarrassingly enough, Eijun's glare was weaker than his normal glare.

It wasn't his fault!

(Stupid Mei. It was difficult to stay angry with him whenever he laughed his real laugh.)

Mei tightened his grip around him briefly before letting go, his smirk widening when Eijun still clung onto him.

Eijun cursed inwardly, pulling away and holding out a hand. He grinned innocently when Mei gave him a suspicious look.

Still looking suspicious, Mei gave him his hand, his lips twitching as Eijun pulled him close, wrapping his arms around him.

Eijun held him close and twirled them, grinning devilishly at Mei's surprised look. He twirled them a few times before his grin softened into his soft smile, tightening his grip around him briefly.

Mei's eyes widened before softening. He wrapped his arms around him, allowing their chests to touch.

This… was nice.

Being this close to Mei was always a joy and something he looked forward to. He wanted to keep him close, knowing Mei's presence would soothe his lonely heart.

He didn't keep track of how many times he twirled them, only stopping when Mei gestured for him to.

Reluctantly letting go of him, Eijun looked away from him, hoping he didn't look as disappointed as he felt.

"Eijun."

He shivered, feeling arms wrap around him and pull him close to a warm body. He wrapped his arms around Mei, burying his face in his shoulder.

"It'll be alright," Mei whispered, probably not wanting anyone around them to hear. "It won't always be like this."

Eijun looked up from his shoulder, pressing closer and almost stepping on Mei's toes. "I really missed you, Mei. I know we saw each other three days ago, but…"

"Yeah." Mei tightened his grip around him briefly, his eyes soft. "I really missed you, too." He kissed his forehead. "Do you want to continue our dance?"

Eijun hummed. "I want to keep hugging you." His eyes lit up. "We can do both!"

Mei laughed. "That's a bit different than what we normally do." He smiled softly. "But I guess we can make up our own rules."

"Exactly. This can…" Eijun furrowed his eyebrows for a few moments before his eyes lit up again. "This can count as a break from our competition. We can always continue it later."

Mei furrowed his eyebrows. "I don't want us to miss the fireworks, though."

"Don't worry." Eijun kissed his forehead before kissing his lips. "I'll keep track of the time."

Mei gave him a suspicious look, the corners of his lips twitching. "I don't know if I can trust you."

"Such a rude boyfriend." Eijun kissed his right shoulder.

They held each other close for a few minutes, Eijun's heart feeling calm and happy with Mei so close to him.

Eijun felt disappointed when he had to let go, but he felt a little better when Mei immediately held his hand, squeezing his hand gently as they walked away from the scaffolding.

"The fireworks should be starting soon, but we have enough time if you wanted to do something else." Eijun looked at Mei, tilting his head. "What do you think?"

Mei hummed, looking around them. "I thought I saw—"

Eijun yelped as he bumped his head against something hard, stepping back despite himself.

Not again!

"Eijun!"

He shivered, feeling Mei wrap his arm around his waist. He let out a pained sound, rubbing his head. "I'm alright, Mei."

"Oi, watch where you're going!"

Mei moved his hand out of the way, kissing his head before glaring at the person. "You're the one who should watch you're going!"

The guy looked at Mei, his eyes widening. "Eh? Narumiya?" He glowered. "What are you doing here?"

Eijun furrowed his eyebrows, looking between them, confused. He gasped, recognizing the guy in front of him, causing them to look at him. "You're that cocky jerk from earlier!"

The guy immediately grinned, stepping closer, either ignoring or missing Mei's glare. "You're that cutie from earlier." He winked. "See? Told you we'd meet again."

"Wait…" Mei furrowed his eyebrows. "You mean this is the guy who hit on you earlier?"

The guy glowered at Mei. "What's your problem, Narumiya? Don't interrupt."

"My problem is that you're flirting with my boyfriend." Mei glared at him, tightening his grip on Eijun's hand briefly.

Eijun shivered, stepping closer to Mei and letting their shoulders touch, hoping the touch calmed him a little. "How do you know Mei?"

The guy's eyes widened again. "Wait… You're dating Narumiya?" He scoffed. "You shouldn't date him."

"Why not?" Eijun furrowed his eyebrows.

The guy scowled. "Narumiya stole my girlfriend. He thinks he can do whatever he wants."

Eijun glared at him, tightening his grip on Mei's hand.

How dare he!

Mei wouldn't steal someone's girlfriend.

Mei blinked a few times before furrowing his eyebrows. "I didn't steal your girlfriend. I don't even know you."

"Why am I not surprised you forgot Nami-chan?"

Mei frowned deeply. "I understand now. You're Nami-chan's ex-boyfriend."

The guy pointed at Mei. "You stole Nami-chan away from me!"

"Nami-chan broke up with you." Mei rolled his eyes. "I didn't steal her away from you."

The guy huffed. "She still liked me! It's your fault!"

"Nami-chan broke up with you because you were too possessive." Mei's voice was cold. "Don't blame me for something that's your fault."

The guy scoffed. "Yeah, I'm sure that's what Nami-chan told you to get sympathy." He looked at Eijun, his grin returning to his face. "But that's in the past. Now I want to get to know you know better, cutie."

Eijun glared at him. "Stop calling me cutie. You're not my boyfriend."

"Yet." The guy smirked, stepping closer, ignoring Mei's glower. "Trust me. You don't want to date Narumiya." He winked. "We can have a lot of fun together."

Eijun glowered at him, hating the way the guy looked him up and down. "Stop badmouthing Mei! He's my boyfriend, and I only have eyes for him!"

Mei smirked, holding up their joined hands. "You heard him. He's happy with me."

"I don't believe you." The guy clenched his fists. "I'm sure Narumiya's just as bad as ever. You know I—" He looked down, his eyes narrowing. "What the hell?" He roughly grabbed Eijun's left wrist, causing him to yelp.

Eijun tried pulling away from the strong grip. "Let go of me!" He winced when the guy tightened his grip.

Mei glowered at the guy, tugging Eijun closer to him. "Let go of him!"

"Did Narumiya give this to you?" The guy looked at the leather bracelet around Eijun's left wrist before smirking darkly. "Now who's the one being too possessive?"

Eijun growled. "Take that back! Mei's not like that at all!" He struggled again. "Now let go, you cocky jerk! You're not allowed—!"

"Is something wrong?"

Eijun blinked at seeing an older man walk up to them.

The older man gave Eijun a warm smile before looking at the guy, frowning deeply. "I don't know what the problem is, but violence isn't the answer." He gave him a pointed look. "I'd suggest you let go."

The guy scowled, looking around them for some reason before letting go. "Whatever!" He pointed at Eijun. "You're going to regret dating Narumiya!" He stomped away, cursing under his breath.

"I'll never regret dating Mei!" Eijun yelled, some part of him smug when the guy jumped a few centimeters into the air.

Mei growled at the guy's back before turning to look at him, reaching out with his free hand and cradling Eijun's left wrist. "Are you alright?" He kissed his wrist, his eyes softening with concern.

"I'm alright, Mei." Eijun smiled softly, flushing as Mei pressed another soft kiss onto his skin. He belatedly remembered the older man, turning his head to look at him. "Thank you very much, Oji-san."

The older man smiled warmly. "No, I didn't do much. I'm sorry I didn't intervene quicker." He furrowed his eyebrows, looking at Eijun's left wrist. "You might want to put some ice on that."

"Eh? I'm alright." Eijun looked at his wrist. His wrist was a little red, but the guy hadn't bruised it. He looked up at the older man, smiling brightly. "Thank you very much for the concern, though."

The older man frowned, his eyes still on his wrist. "Are you sure? I've got some ice you can put on it. It's no trouble."

Mei squeezed his hand gently. "Thank you very much, Oji-san. We'll use your ice."

The older man nodded, turning around and gesturing for them to follow. "I'll take you two to my booth."

"Mei…" Eijun rolled his eyes as they followed the older man. "You worry too much."

Mei clicked his tongue, staring at his left wrist. "I wonder why?" he said sarcastically.

"Relax, Mei." Eijun huffed. "I'm alright. He didn't bruise my wrist."

Mei growled, his eyes gleaming dangerously. "I would've killed him if he bruised your wrist." He tightened his grip on his hand briefly. "That's your pitching hand, Eijun."

Eijun shivered, glaring at him. "I know that, Mei! But I'm alright!"

"I wouldn't call this alright!" Mei held his wrist at eye level. "Are you blind!"

Eijun tried tugging his left hand back, but Mei refused to let go. "My wrist is a little red, and it hurts a little." He glowered at him. "But that will go away soon."

"Why are you so—!"

The older man clapped his hands, causing them to look at him. "Here we are. This is my booth."

Eijun blinked at seeing a taiyaki booth.

The older man turned to face them, grinning. "I don't have any customers right now, so go sit down. I'll get the ice for you."

Mei nodded, tugging Eijun with him. "Thank you very much, Oji-san."

"Thank you very much." Eijun bowed his head.

They walked to the small open space between the booths, sitting down on the bench. They didn't have to wait long for the older man to come back.

The older man held out an ice pack wrapped in a blue cloth. "Here you go."

Mei reached out, accepting the ice pack before grabbing Eijun's left hand and applying it to his wrist, Eijun's eyes closing briefly at the temperature.

"I'll leave you two lovebirds alone." The older man grinned. "Let me know if you want any taiyaki."

Eijun squawked as the older man walked away. "L-Lovebirds…!" He felt his face warming up. "I… We're not…! That's not…!"

He and Mei weren't that bad.

(Why did the older man call them 'lovebirds'? He and Mei didn't… love each other.)

Mei laughed loudly, nudging his right shoulder gently. "I didn't know we look like lovebirds."

"You…" Eijun looked at him, feeling a little better at seeing Mei's flushed cheeks. "You're not embarrassed?"

Mei hummed. "I admit, it's a little embarrassing." He shrugged. "I guess we appear that way to people who don't know us."

"You…" Eijun squeezed his hand gently. "You're not bothered?"

Mei furrowed his eyebrows. "Why? He doesn't know us, and I'm sure he didn't mean it in a bad way." He let out an understanding sound. "You mean because we don't… love each other?" His flush darkened.

"Y-Yeah." Eijun couldn't look away from Mei. "You're alright with letting strangers think that we do?"

Mei didn't blush as often as him, so he always made sure to take in the sight whenever it happened.

(He looked so cute.)

Mei frowned. "They can think whatever they want about us. I don't care." His eyes softened. "I really like you. Right now, that's enough for me."

Eijun smiled softly, kissing him gently. "I really like you, too, Mei."

Unfortunately, he couldn't echo what Mei said about that being enough.

For a while now, telling Mei he really liked him…

That wasn't enough.

He wanted more.

He wished he could come up with a word that described how he felt about Mei.

(Later. He would think about what these feelings meant later. He wasn't ready.)

Mei frowned, looking down at his wrist and moving the ice pack around. "How's your wrist?" His eyes softened with concern. "Better?"

Eijun thought for a few moments before smiling softly. "Yeah, it doesn't hurt anymore." He looked away briefly, feeling sheepish. "I'm sorry about earlier, Mei. I know you were just concerned."

"You're so stubborn sometimes." Mei huffed, the corners of his lips twitching. "How many times do I have to tell you to look after yourself?"

Eijun winced despite himself. "Sorry." He scooted closer, his eyes softening. "I'm happy you look out for me."

"It's no big deal." Mei grinned cheekily. "The king is used to taking care of people."

Eijun snorted. "Are you sure it's not the other way around?" He grinned devilishly as Mei glared at him. "That's what Itsuki tells me."

"You shouldn't believe everything Itsuki tells you." Mei clicked his tongue. "Besides, I'm not talking about Inashiro. I'm talking about back home."

Eijun frowned, tilting his head. "But you're the baby of the family."

"I mentioned those parties I went to before, right?" When Eijun nodded, Mei shrugged. "Usually, all the children stuck together, so I got stuck babysitting the little kids."

Eijun let out an understanding sound. "Oh, that's why." He blinked a few times. "Wait… What about Akari-san and Asami-san? They weren't around to help you?"

Mei rolled his eyes. "They've always been the type of people who can talk to anyone. They would always talk to my parents' guests and business partners."

"That sounds like them. You were never interested in talking to them?"

Mei scoffed. "I only attended those parties because my parents made me." He hummed. "I was never rude to my parents' guests, but I was also never interested in talking to them."

Eijun snorted. "That sounds like you."

"Right?"

They sat in comfortable silence for several moments, listening to the cicadas, faint music of the festival, and the chatter of people.

Eijun shivered. "Mei, I think my wrist is alright now. I'm getting cold."

"Really?" Mei lifted the ice pack, examining his wrist. He furrowed his eyebrows before nodding. "It looks better." He placed the ice pack beside him, kissing his wrist again. "If it still hurts when you get back to Seidou, you should put more ice on it."

Eijun's breathing hitched as Mei pressed soft kisses onto his skin. "Y-Yeah. I know."

Stupid Mei.

They walked back to the taiyaki booth, thanking the older man again and handing him the ice pack.

After receiving some free taiyaki, they walked deeper into the festival grounds, Mei keeping Eijun close the whole time.

Eijun rolled his eyes good-naturedly at his protectiveness, but he didn't say anything, watching Mei with soft eyes.

Not that Mei needed to protect him.

All the people they came across were either sitting down, eating food or engrossed in their conversation.

It wasn't until they walked down a stone path almost covered in darkness that Eijun cleared his throat, causing Mei to look at him.

"You don't have to tell me, but… You knew that cocky jerk?"

Mei scowled, looking away from him. "He's just a guy from school. I don't even know his name."

"I'm not surprised to hear that." Eijun rolled his eyes before furrowing his eyebrows. "You dated his… ex-girlfriend?"

Mei squeezed his hand gently. "I didn't date Nami-chan that long." He frowned deeply. "I think we lasted a few days?" He looked over at him, clicking his tongue at his look of disapproval. "Don't look at me like that. She's the one who broke up with me."

Eijun doubted that. "Why did she break up with you?"

"She said I was too serious about baseball." Mei rolled his eyes. "Can you believe her? She wanted me to choose her over baseball."

Eijun let out an understanding sound.

The trees seemed to stretch all around them, leaves rustling in the wind.

Several moments later, they arrived at an almost deserted riverfront, Mei leading them over to some stone steps.

They sat down, Mei sighing.

"I'm sorry about tonight." At Eijun's confused look, he squeezed his hand gently, his eyes softening. "I wanted tonight to be perfect."

Eijun frowned, scooting closer and wrapping his arm around his waist. "It's not your fault, Mei. Besides…" He smiled brightly, kissing his cheek. "I had a lot of fun!"

Mei wrapped his arm around him, pulling him closer, the corners of his lips twitching when Eijun let out an approving sound. "I'm glad. I wanted it to be special."

"It was a special night, Mei." Eijun grinned devilishly. "The king wanted to cheer me up."

Mei flushed (to his amusement). "You knew?"

Eijun snorted. "You did the same thing last year. Did you think I would forget?"

"I know how forgetful you can be." Mei grinned cheekily at his dirty look. "I'm kidding."

Eijun's eyes softened. "Thank you, Mei. I'm so happy you did this for me." He leaned closer, wrapping his other arm around him and kissing him, letting out a happy sound despite himself as Mei responded to the kiss.

Mei was so sweet.

One of the sweetest guys he had ever met.

He felt lucky to have him.

Eijun pulled away several moments later, his eyes still soft. He let out a surprised sound as Mei pulled him back in, kissing him again.

This time, Mei nibbled on his lower lip, causing Eijun to moan.

Could Mei read minds?

Eijun had thought of doing this to Mei earlier.

(It was so unfair.)

Mei kept nibbling his lower lip, as if he wanted to nibble every centimeter of his lips. Once done with his lower lip, he nibbled his top lip, Eijun letting out a gasp.

Eijun clung onto Mei with one arm, one of his hands running through Mei's hair, Mei letting out a pleased sound. "Mei…"

Mei hummed, licking his lips and smirking as Eijun's breathing hitched. "You're so sensitive." He kissed his cheeks before kissing his jaw. "You were thinking about this earlier, weren't you?"

"How did you…" Eijun moaned, tilting his head as Mei kissed down his neck. "How did you know?"

Mei let out an approving hum, kissing up and down his neck. He pulled down the kimono style top, kissing his collarbone. "You kept staring at me, idiot."

"I told you…" Eijun gasped as Mei licked up his neck. "I told you I was admiring your good looks."

Mei snorted against his skin. "I know you better than that. You wouldn't get caught staring so many times unless you wanted something."

"But how did you know this is what I wanted?"

Mei hummed, kissing different parts of his neck, causing him to moan. "I didn't at first. I started suspecting something after I participated in the lottery, though."

Eijun flushed.

He didn't know he had been that obvious.

(It was a little frustrating, as he wanted to do this to Mei. It felt like he lost to him.)

"Mei…" He yelped as Mei nipped his ear. "Stop!"

Mei froze, pulling away a couple of moments later and furrowing his eyebrows. "Is something wrong?"

Eijun huffed, gesturing to the people sitting below them on a grassy hill not too far away. "We're in public, you idiot."

(As always, his chest felt warm at Mei respecting him.)

"… Then it's alright if I do it in private?"

Eijun gasped as Mei pulled him up, forcing him to follow. "What are you…?"

Mei led them over to the bushes, walking for a few moments into the forest before turning to face him. "This spot should be good."

Eijun pushed him against a nearby tree, nibbling his lower lip before pulling away and grinning devilishly at his whine. "It's my turn now."

"But tonight's supposed to be about you." Mei frowned.

Eijun smiled softly. "I want to thank you, Mei. Let me do this?"

"… Alright." Mei flushed, looking away briefly. "Go ahead." He smirked, probably trying to regain his composure. "Make your king feel good."

Eijun's devilish grin returned. "It would be my pleasure, King-sama," he breathed, kissing Mei and letting out an approving sound as Mei wrapped his arms around him, pulling him closer.

He kissed him for a little bit before pulling away and nibbling his bottom lip again, causing Mei to let out a pleased sound.

Mei let out pleased sound after pleased sound, clinging to him.

Eijun almost smirked, loving the way Mei reacted.

Just like he had imagined it.

(He didn't care what Mei thought. This totally counted as a victory in his book.)

Once done nibbling every centimeter of his bottom lip, Eijun nibbled his top lip, shivering despite himself when Mei moaned.

… He had to be careful.

He didn't want things to get too heated.

(He had a game tomorrow. Sure, he might not pitch, but that was no excuse.)

Mei snickered, no doubt having felt him shiver. "Do I look that attractive tonight? You're acting like you're about to jump me."

Eijun's face flushed at the thought of doing it in public. "I'm not…! What are you…? You little…"

"Talk, Eijun." Mei smirked as he shivered again. "Use words. Although I don't mind if you're too busy kissing me to talk."

Eijun huffed, nibbling his ear, Mei letting out another pleased sound. "You'd like that."

"What?"

Eijun nibbled his other ear, almost letting out another moan at hearing Mei's pleased sound so close to his ear. "You'd like it if I jumped you here."

Mei hummed, tilting his neck as Eijun kissed it. "Well, if you're not opposed to it…"

"Shut up, pervert."

Mei laughed softly. "I'm kidding." He hummed again as Eijun kissed up and down his neck. "Honestly? I'm glad you're doing this."

"Oh?" Eijun snorted, not looking up from Mei's neck. "Why? Because you like the attention? Because you like that we're doing this in public?"

Mei forced him to look at him, his dark blue eyes almost making him shiver. "Because you're helping me with my revenge."

Eijun froze.

He had completely forgotten about that.

(Not that he was surprised. Mei would never forget about getting revenge.)

"What…" Eijun cleared his throat, wanting to hate Mei's knowing look. "What do you mean I'm helping you with your revenge?" He furrowed his eyebrows. "I'm making you feel good."

Mei raised an eyebrow. "What better way to get revenge than to drown you in my presence?" He glanced at his crotch, smirking as Eijun flushed. "You're uncomfortable, aren't you?"

Shit.

Eijun had been hoping Mei wouldn't notice.

He huffed, kissing his neck some more, causing Mei to hum. "That doesn't mean we're going to do anything!"

"I never said we would." Mei kissed the top of his head. "Although…"

Eijun paused, looking up at Mei's suggestive voice. "What?"

"I could come back to Seidou with you." Mei smirked. "I'll make you feel good."

Eijun slapped his shoulder lightly, causing Mei to snicker. "No, you pervert." He flushed, looking away briefly. "Not tonight."

"Oh?" Mei raised an eyebrow. "What's wrong with tonight?" He grinned cheekily. "It would be the perfect way to end the night, don't you think?"

Eijun took a deep breath, trying to push his excitement away. "Tomorrow… I've got a game tomorrow."

"Is that all?" Mei's grin widened at his dirty look. "It's not like you're pitching, right?"

Eijun glared at him. "I might be! I have to be ready just in case!"

Mei hummed. "Then we don't have to have sex." He winked. "I know of another way I can make you feel good."

"Not…!" Eijun's whole face turned red. Even his ears were red. "Not tonight, you ass!"

What was Mei thinking?

(Did Mei forget about his teammates? How could they do something like… that with his teammates around? His teammates would never approve.)

Mei laughed loudly. "Then…" He smirked. "Does that mean we can do it if you don't have practice or a game the next day?"

"Like that would stop you," Eijun muttered. "We've had practice the next day, and we've still done it."

Mei's smirk widened. "I know. I'm so irresistible." He laughed again when Eijun glared at him. "I suppose you're right."

Eijun blinked a few times before furrowing his eyebrows. "Did… Did you just say I'm right?"

Mei pouted, causing him to look away briefly. "I shouldn't stay the night when you've got a game tomorrow. Besides…" He smirked. "I've already gotten my revenge."

"What do you mean?"

Mei's smirk widened. "You're going to be thinking about me all night." He glanced at his crotch again. "I'm sure you can find some time before bed to take care of your… problem."

Eijun shivered. "That's not…" He cleared his throat. "That won't be the only reason," he muttered, frowning.

He never looked forward to saying good night to Mei.

He missed him so much whenever he wasn't around.

"Come here." Mei pulled him close, wrapping his arms around him. "You're acting weird tonight. Did you really miss me that much?"

Eijun would've glared at him, but Mei hadn't said that in his normal teasing or smug voice. "Maybe I did." He avoided Mei's eyes, hugging him back. "I wish…"

"What?"

Eijun tightened his grip around him briefly. "I wish you weren't so far away."

Sure, Mei would still be at Inashiro.

This relationship wouldn't be as painful if Mei was closer, though.

"I would still be busy with baseball and school."

Eijun huffed. "I know."

"I thought you enjoy your alone time and your time with your teammates."

Eijun let out a frustrated yell, meeting Mei's eyes. "Of course I do! But that's not the same!" He gritted his teeth. "Why don't you understand? I'm not saying we have to be together all the time."

Mei snorted. "Yeah, I don't think either of us would survive that." He grinned cheekily as Eijun shot him a dirty look. "I'm kidding."

"Forget it." Eijun looked away, pouting. "You don't understand what I'm feeling."

Mei hummed, kissing his forehead. "I know. Trust me. I understand."

"Prove it."

Mei forced him to look at him, grabbing one of his hands and resting them over his heart. "This heart belongs to you." He closed his eyes briefly, tightening his grip around him. "It's so painful whenever you're not around. I wish I could see you every day."

Eijun's eyes widened. "Mei…"

"You want to know a secret?" When Eijun nodded, Mei kissed his cheek. "I've been wanting to steal you away from Seidou ever since I realized my feelings for you."

Eijun flushed. "You… You have?" He furrowed his eyebrows. "But I wasn't a very good pitcher back then."

"No, you idiot." Mei snorted. "It didn't have anything to do with your pitching." His eyes softened. "I just wanted you close to me."

Eijun's eyes softened. "Mei…" He kissed his forehead. "You're right. That would've been nice."

"Right?"

Eijun's eyes were still soft. "It's so painful whenever you're not around. But I'm still happy and grateful to be a part of Seidou's baseball team."

Mei huffed. "I know. That's why I could never do it. You're so loyal to them."

Eijun's chest felt warm. He kissed his cheek to thank him. "You know, I…" His voice was soft. "I don't know what will happen in the future. I haven't even thought about the future that much."

"That sounds like you." Mei's fond voice was just as soft as his.

Eijun pressed closer, almost stepping on Mei's toes. "The only thing I know for sure is that I want you there." He tightened his grip around him as Mei's eyes widened. "What do you think?"

"I…" Mei cleared his throat. "I want the same. I don't want anyone else beside me. Only you."

They heard a whistling sound, the sound of fireworks exploding a few moments later.

"See?" Mei grinned cheekily. "I told you I couldn't trust you to keep track of the time."

Eijun grinned devilishly. "Don't blame me when you're the one who couldn't wait to get revenge."

"I thought it wouldn't take long!" Mei whined. "You're the one who wouldn't let me do it out there!"

Eijun rolled his eyes good-naturedly. "You want to go watch?"

Mei hummed, nuzzling his neck, causing him to smile softly. "Never mind. I've changed my mind."

"Yeah." Eijun kissed his cheek. "Me too."

He knew he would have to let go of Mei eventually.

(Seidou had a game tomorrow. He didn't care what Furuya thought. He would be ready to pitch just in case.)

Right now, though, he wanted to stay as close as possible to Mei.

Let his presence wash over him like waves at a beach.

Not even worrying about falling too deep.

ZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Author Notes: I hope y'all enjoyed this fic.

Reviews/Favorites/Follows are appreciated.

This fic was a lot of fun to write. Eijun's getting close to realizing his feelings for Mei, and I wanted to write more of him having those strong feelings for Mei but still not realizing it. For those of y'all wondering when Eijun will realize it… Let's just say it'll be a surprise 😉😉😉 Unfortunately, I can't tell y'all anything else, as that will ruin the surprise.

When I started writing this fic, I wanted to write it a certain way. I wanted to include some of the same things from Last Year's Summer Sky summer festival chapter, but I also wanted to include how Eijun and Mei's relationship has changed since then.

Sanada and Raichi showed up for a little bit. Originally, I wanted them to stay longer so that I can write more of their interactions as well as their interactions with Eijun. As I continued working on this fic, though, it became obvious to me that I didn't need more of those interactions. If I had added them, that might've changed what this fic is about. Y'all might see more of Sanada and Raichi in some of my future fics.

Speaking of future fics… I already know what my next fic will be about. My next fic will be about Seidou trying to interfere with Eijun and Mei's relationship. Y'all can expect a lot of angst. Also, Chris is going to show up in my next fic! He won't be there the whole fic (maybe a scene or two), but I promise he's there for a good reason. *coughsChrisscoldingSeidouisoneofthosescenescoughs* I already know how I want to write it, so hopefully, it won't take too long.

See y'all next time!