Storms of yesterday

by thedollars666

Izaya and Shizuo lose their memories of their romantic relationship and ultimately forget they became anything more then enemies. Forced to confront their feelings; Izaya denies everything, but Shizuo starts to realize that their maybe something more between them. Can their friends help them remember before its too late? Sequel to Winds of Change. RECENTLY REVISED AS OF 13/02/20

12. I now pronounce you, civil partnered

Shizuo slammed his fist against the desk, extremely frustrated by now, though Izaya didn't even flinch, he leaned back with a sigh. "Please don't break my desk," he told the angry blond.

Shizuo glared at him but unclenched his fist, running a hand through his hair, honestly, he didn't think this was going to be so complicated. Izaya had been going over all the procedures that they needed to receive - what the equivalent of a marriage certificate was - a civil partnership. It wasn't as if they could just get married, no, of course not, that would have been way too simple wouldn't it?

Izaya was aware that Shizuo hadn't quite acknowledged this certain fact, a same-sex couple could not get married, not like they wanted. He probably should have mentioned this to him way before, but he honestly thought Shizuo knew at the time. Paperwork covered the desk, and two piles of documents sat neatly to one side. "Shizu-chan, it's not that complicated-"

"The hell it isn't!"

Izaya watched him get up from the desk chair and storm out of the apartment. "Seriously?" he shook his head, of course, he knew that Shizuo's temper wasn't because of the paperwork, going through all the information - though that probably didn't help the situation, it was because of the cold hard fact that they wouldn't be technically, 'married.' Izaya didn't let it bother him, it was just the law, and who knows, maybe they could turn their civil partnership into a marriage certificate one day. This was as close to it as they were going to get, so he didn't know why Shizuo was so angry over it.

June 15th. That was the date he'd set for them, it was plenty of time, he had already phoned ahead, asking many venues if they were available that date. He'd only come up with two, but he'd yet to show them to Shizuo. Izaya stretched in his chair, there was still so much to go through, so maybe it was best to just let him sulk for a while. Izaya got up from the chair and made his way into the kitchen to pour himself a tea. His phone rang, he leaned against the counter and clicked to answer it.

"Orihara." Saying his own surname, struck him with another thought, they hadn't even discussed whether they'd take either of each other's names. "What can I do for you?" Izaya listened to the woman on the other end of the phone, she sounded young, maybe just in her twenties, and she sounded rather frightened. "It sounds like you're being stalked. You should probably notify the police, I'm an informant, Miss-" he waited for her to confirm her name, since she had yet to even do so. Why was they always coming to him with something like this? he then froze the moment she said her name.

{It's just, I don't know, I always think I'm getting away from him. He just seems to know where I am all the time. I don't know what to do, if I go to the police, it's going to take too long and - I feel like he's going to know.}

Fuck. Izaya tightened his hold on the phone. "Where are you now?" ha, as if he didn't already know that.

{Erm, I'm at a payphone box right now, outside the sunshine complex.}

Of course you are. "Walk down the street across the road and go into the mall opposite, lose yourself in the crowd, go into one of the cafes."

{He'll follow me for sure.}

"I'll lead him off trail, if you do exactly what I said, he won't be able to spot you.}

{But - how will you lead him off trail? You don't even know where he is, or even who he is.}

Izaya sighed. "His name is Miwasaki, you met him once at a bus station and then again a few days later in a park."

{What?}

"Maybe you don't remember, it was probably only for brief moments. Do you remember helping anyone with directions, or change maybe?"

{Yes, I do, at the bus station, he asked if I had any spare change, he said he'd been clumsy and lost some, I felt sorry for him.}

"And the park?"

{It took me a while to recognise him again, but he just asked me for directions, he just seemed like the type to just forget things.}

"Some humans often play on that, because they know someone like yourself, will buy it."

{What does that mean?}

"This was probably when he started stalking you, learning everything there was to know about you."

{How do you know all this?}

Izaya sighed. "Because I'm the one that's helping him keep track on you. I'm the reason why he can always seem to find you."

{You - what?}

Izaya chewed his lip, it was true, but at the time the man approached him for help, he'd already known a lot about the woman. "He came to me to help find you, I was under the impression you were a couple. He used the story of the bus station and the park as to how you met. He said that you were in trouble and he just wanted to help find you." Izaya was surprised himself, that the man had tricked him somehow. It wasn't as though he was looking for it, he couldn't investigate every single client that came to him, though he didn't exactly have a lot of free time right now, what with the partnership and other jobs he'd had at the time.

{You've been helping him stalk me!?}

Well, she certainly went from frightened to angry quick. Izaya tilted his head up in exasperation, putting it like that made him cringe, like he was up to his old schemes. "Go to the mall, lose yourself in the crowd." He would help her now, now that he knew the situation he'd put her in.

{Why should I trust you? You're just going to tell him where I am again.}

He couldn't blame her for thinking that, he wouldn't trust him either. "I'm going to meet you."

{Why?}

"To help you, it's the least I can do."

{How do I know that for sure?}

"You came to me for help in the first place, right?"

{That was before I knew you were helping him.}

"That wasn't my intention, well it was, but not to stalk you. Let me help you now, when you get into the mall, text me your location."

There was silence for a moment and Izaya began to think she'd hung up and then - "Okay."

Izaya sighed in relief. The two hung up and he walked out of the kitchen to grab his jacket from the door, he wasn't one to get involved, she could have just contacted the police. But it was his mistake, and if she did go to the police, he'd be in trouble too. Had he just unintentionally broken his promise? He shook his head, not willing to think that much on the subject, it wasn't his fault. As he slipped on his shoes on by the door, Shizuo came back. Izaya couldn't help but smirk. "Are you done sulking?"

Shizuo glared at him and then rolled his eyes. "I wasn't sulking."

"All right, are you done throwing a tantrum?"

"I wasn't throwing a tantrum!" Izaya raised an eyebrow at him, still his smirk was plastered on his face. It was then Shizuo noticed Izaya's jacket and shoes. "Going somewhere?"

"Yes."

Shizuo blinked. "That's it, just yes?"

"I answered your question didn't I."

Shizuo narrowed his eyes, becoming suspicious almost instantly. "What's with you?"

Izaya hated it when Shizuo was this perceptive, he didn't remember him being this way before. "Nothing, I just have to be somewhere really quick."

"You said we need to sort out this civil thing, so why the sudden rush out?"

"I just have to settle an issue. Work Shizu-chan, nothing to worry about, I'll be back soon."

Izaya reached for the door and Shizuo grabbed his wrist. "Izaya-" Izaya looked at Shizuo, he knew that tone, the tone that said that he knew something wasn't right and that he could tell Izaya was lying.

Izaya grinned. "Don't make me late now."

"Do you think I'm that stupid?"

Izaya tilted his head. "No?"

"I'm not letting go until you tell me." The informant pondered his options, he then smirked and leaned in to kiss him, Shizuo snorted and placed his hand over Izaya's face. "Come on, give me some credit."

Izaya moved his hand away with a huff, he heard his phone bleep, probably a text, he also knew that before the woman rang him, that Miwasaki would have been nearby. He pulled out his phone, Shizuo still hadn't taken his hand off his wrist.

'I'm in the mall, second floor café.'

"I really have to go Shizu-chan." He should have been over there by now, by the time he'd made his way to sunshine city, he'd have received her text in valuable time.

"Just tell me what's going on, you're acting all damn skittish."

Izaya laughed then. "You don't have to worry Shizu-chan, I'm not in trouble, I just have to go fix something."

Shizuo raised an eyebrow. "What did you do?" ha, one minute he was worried about him, then in the next breath he was scolding him.

Izaya sighed, he wasn't going to let this go, was he? "I made a mistake."

Shizuo then let go of his wrist, and for a second, he thought Izaya was going to bolt out the door. His eyes widened then and he started to panic. "Izaya, are you - are you having second thoughts? Because I didn't mean to get angry, I just-" Izaya placed his finger on Shizuo's lips to hush him.

"Calm down, I wasn't talking about that. How did you even get to that conclusion?"

Shizuo sighed. "Dunno, cause you're acting like-" Shizuo swallowed the lump in his throat, "like you did back in the alley, or something."

"Back in the-" Izaya narrowed his eyes then. "You think I'm going to do that to you again? Disappear or play you?"

"No! I just – I-" Shizuo clenched his fists, what the hell was he even thinking? He knew damn well how Izaya felt about him by now. Maybe he was getting cold feet? Was that a thing? He was sure it was, but the ceremony wasn't until June, who even got cold feet five months before?

Izaya narrowed his eyes. "I have to go; I'll leave it up to you to decide whether you actually trust me or not." Izaya then walked out of the apartment without another word, leaving Shizuo feeling incredibly guilty now.

Shizuo growled and then slammed his fist against the wall, a small crack soon appeared. "Damn it!"

….

Izaya walked into the mall, hoping the young woman was still there, he stepped onto the escalator, there was a frown showing on his features, he couldn't believe Shizuo could think that, even for a second. That time in the alleyway, it seemed so long ago, even then he was a different person, still trying to work out why he was changing so much, trying to figure out his feelings. After everything they'd promised, all the shit they'd gone through just to keep one another, what would be the point in leaving now?

He'd deal with that when he got home, there was something else more important right now then Shizuo's ridiculous accusations. Promises…. maybe that's why he'd gotten annoyed before, why he couldn't tell Shizuo what was going on, because he felt like he'd let him down. It was all unintentional, but Izaya couldn't help but feel responsible, it was like his subconscious was just secretly still screwing people over.

He stepped off as he reached the top, hoping he wasn't - Izaya suddenly saw him, talking to someone, talking to her - too late. Well, maybe not, he quickly pulled out his phone and started to send a quick text.

"I was just wondering something; we seem to bump into each other quite a lot-"

She shifted in her seat, glancing around, trying to stay calm, she then smiled up at him. "It seems that way, doesn't it?"

Miwasaki smiled, it was certainly not a genuine smile, that much she could already tell. "Maybe we should stop dancing around each other and do something about it?" he leaned close to her, grinning then. "I mean, I feel like I already know everything about you."

The woman shuddered, frowning inwardly, she began to wonder whether the man she spoke to was lying when her phone rang.

Izaya peered around the corner of a column, just outside of the café, he had hoped to reach her before Miwasaki caught up with her. By leading her into the mall, he was going to throw the man off her trail, but of course, Shizuo caused that to fail. He stayed hidden but he could see the two from his position. He watched as the woman dug her phone out of her purse and glanced at the man as he watched her do so.

"It's me, I'm sorry that I'm late, I was hoping to be with you before he approached. Listen to me, get up from the table, act like it's an important phone call, excuse yourself outside. He won't do anything rash in front of a lot of people; he knows my face, so I can't come to you, but I'm close by."

She feigned a surprised expression, like she'd received shocking news and stood up, the guy eyeing her suspiciously. She bowed politely and then edged herself away from the café. "I'm sorry, I have to take this outside."

"Good girl." Izaya watched her carefully and then glanced at the man to make sure he wasn't approaching, he'd stood up, but he hadn't made a move to follow yet. "Keep walking away and keep talking." All the while Izaya kept both his sights on them, feeling a sudden rush of adrenaline, who knew that helping someone could have just as much of an effect as what he used to feel when he caused havoc.

Maybe Satoshi was right, he could work wonders if he started working for him. Izaya shook his head, he liked being his own boss, he liked being an underground informant, nothing was going to change that. If that happened, then that meant admitting that he enjoyed helping people. He couldn't abandon the last piece of himself that made him unique, his love for humans wouldn't change, so he'd rather just keep working this way. He was only helping this young woman, to rectify his own mistake, just like the reason he'd put an end to Tainted and got rid of Nakura - in a way.

Akane was a special case, he initially only wanted to screw around with the parents, but as it went, he'd ended up saving her and protecting her, and found her a new home. Most of that was Shizuo's doing, his partner was hardly going to let him walk away without making sure she was safe. "Now turn around and turn right, don't look back at him," he instructed, he watched her do so and then grabbed her wrist, she almost yelped as he pulled her into where he was hidden. "It's okay, your safe now."

She looked up at him then, tilting her head, as if trying to put the voice she was talking to on the phone and the face of the one in front of her. "Orihara?"

Izaya nodded with a smile. "That's right, I told you I would help, I'm sorry that I got here a little later than I expected." He then moved in front of her and slightly peered around the corner, seeing the man had walked outside, standing just a mere few feet from their position.

"What now?"

"If you move now, he'll spot you." Izaya stepped away from the column. "Stay here."

"But-"

"Don't worry, this is all part of the plan." He then smirked and walked toward the guy with his hands in his jacket. "Miwasaki?"

The man startled and turned to the voice; he raised an eyebrow as a familiar person approached him. "Oh it's you Orihara, what are you doing here?"

"Helping out a friend, have you lost someone?"

"I thought I found her, I guess it wasn't her, I'm just so worried."

"She's probably long gone by now."

"I swear she was just here - you said she was around sunshine city; I could have sworn she came in here."

Izaya shrugged and then pulled out his phone when he heard it bleep. 'I'm outside.' Izaya smirked and placed it back in his pocket. "The phone call must have been important, for her to leave so quickly."

"She couldn't have gotten far, I almost had her-" the guy then realised his slip up and Izaya's smirk deepened. "Shit, I mean-" feeling a little thrown off, Miwasaki shook his head and then he wondered something. "Wait, how did you know about the phone call?"

Izaya laughed. "Because I'm the one that called her." His laugh continued as he watched the expression on Miwasaki's face change from panic to anger in a few seconds. "That's right, I know you're stalking her, that she's not your girlfriend." Asumi peered around the column, watching, for a moment, she was worried that Izaya might tell him that it was her that contacted him. "Do you really think that I'm that stupid? That it would be that easy to fool me? I knew all along that you weren't really her boyfriend, I just needed to bide my time, just waiting for the right moment, I couldn't wait to see the look on your face." She was surprised, he didn't give her away at all, and she knew then that she could trust him, that what he'd told her was true, that he had no intention of causing her any harm.

"You - son of a bitch." he gritted his teeth, Izaya grinned at him.

"Gotta bounce!" Izaya then dodged an oncoming fist and ran off, he looked back and laughed. He's following me, what an idiot. Izaya ran and sharply turned right and jumped down the stairs a section at a time, he stopped when he reached the bottom, smirking up at Miwasaki, just waiting for him.

"You're fricking dead informant!"

"I'm still waiting!" Izaya was aware of the scene they were now making, since the people around them had stopped to stare. Miwasaki clenched his fists and ran down the steps, Izaya waited until he got to the very last one before laughing and running off again. They approached the mall's entrance, and both ran outside the doors, Izaya stopped again, causing Miwasaki to stop abruptly in front of him. Izaya sighed dramatically. "You shouldn't have underestimated me. What a shame, you must have thought you were so smart ne?"

Before the man could even take a swing, he was grabbed by two cops. "What the!"

"Good timing!" Izaya praised, clapping his hands and then placing them in his jacket. "I do love your punctuality Satoshi."

Satoshi shook his head. "Tst. You're impressive as always Izaya, but I hope you got evidence."

"Oh I have no doubt that she will testify, I'm sure that's all the evidence you'll need."

Miwasaki struggled in the cop's grip. "No! he helped me! He helped me stalk her! He should be put away!"

Izaya smirked, well, maybe they didn't need evidence after all. He then rolled his eyes, like that was going to work anyway, Satoshi knew him too well to fool for that. But Izaya thanked god he did, because in truth, that was exactly what happened.

"Well thanks for the confession there, you've even got that stalker look about you." Two cops dragged him away.

"Izaya!" they turn to see Asumi run toward them from the building, she then slowed down and spotted Miwasaki being thrown into a cop car. "You - you did it."

Izaya smiled. "You're safe now, he won't be following you anymore."

Satoshi then approached them. "If you would like to come with me Miss."

Izaya motioned for her to follow. "This is Satoshi, he'll take care of you now, get your statement and make sure you're safe."

Asumi bowed. "Of course, I'm very happy to do that." She then turned to Izaya. "Thank you, you really did want to help after all."

Izaya shrugged. "Just part of the plan." She nodded in understanding, and Izaya knew that she'd tell them exactly that, for her own protection as well as his.

"Thank you." Izaya watched her walk away with Satoshi and then watched the cars drive off.

…..

Izaya walked slowly into the apartment, shutting the door and toeing off his shoes, he then spotted the crack in the wall. He clicked his tongue and set his keys on the table beside the door. He then turned and soon spotted Shizuo on the couch, the man obviously knew he was home, but refused to acknowledge it. Izaya sighed and walked toward the couch and sat beside him. Shizuo was frowning, staring at the floor. "Shizu-chan-" he was about to explain himself when -

"I'm sorry." Izaya hadn't expected him to be the one to apologize first, not in this case. "I shouldn't have reacted the way I did. Whatever happened in the alley was a completely different situation? I guess I just panicked, it just felt familiar, you were acting odd, I got suspicious, but I didn't mean for you to think I didn't trust you. I do, I trust you Izaya, I'm so sorry about what I said I-"

Izaya hushed him by grabbing his wrist, causing Shizuo to finally look at him. "Perceptiveness suits you Shizu-chan. You were right though-" Izaya sighed, looking away from him, feeling his heart constrict for a moment, "I messed up; I broke our promise…."

Shizuo looked at him, blinking in confusion. "What do you mean?"

Izaya let go of his wrist, his head now in his hands. "Ah, I don't know how to explain it."

Shizuo frowned, that familiar feeling coming back, but he squashed it down. "Talk to me."

"I got a phone call while you were outside sulking." Izaya almost smirked at Shizuo's grunt of protest that he wasn't sulking. "It was a young woman, asking for help, once she explained her issue, it sounded as though she was being stalked."

"That's nothing to do with you, should have just gone to the police."

"That's what I said, but-" Izaya bit his thumb nail, and Shizuo knew there was something wrong. "When she told me her name, I knew that what she said was true. I knew because I was the one that was tracking her."

"You helped someone stalk her?"

Izaya grimaced. "Yes, I messed up, I - I didn't realise, he told me that she was his girlfriend, that he was worried about her, that she was missing. He already knew a lot about her, making it believable." Izaya clenched his fists, still annoyed over the whole thing. "I was unknowingly helping him stalk her."

Shizuo didn't say anything at first, he honestly didn't know what to say. What the hell? he felt like he should be angry, that Izaya would even do something like that, that he had done so in the past - kind of. But seeing his reaction, seeing how frustrated and upset he was, it was obviously no fault of his own, it was just - hard to believe. Izaya was more annoyed with himself, that this guy managed to trick him.

"I broke our promise." Izaya placed his head in his hands once more.

Shizuo could tell Izaya was feeling incredibly guilty, it wouldn't do any good to get mad now. If Izaya said it wasn't his fault, then he'd believe him, and why wouldn't he? If he had done it on purpose, then Izaya wouldn't be acting like this now. He'd be bragging about it, smirking that sinister smirk he used to wear back in the day. Something else came to mind, and he found himself asking the question before he could rethink it. "Izaya, where did you go?"

Izaya looked up at him then. "Go?"

"Earlier, you've been gone a while."

"I told her to meet me at the mall, I helped her, corrected the mistake I'd made."

Shizuo raised an eyebrow. "Did you tell her it was your fault?"

"Yes, I knew exactly where she was anyway, and I also knew that the stalker wasn't too far behind either. I was hoping to catch her before he found her again, but he was already there, when I arrived." It was then Shizuo's eyes began to roam over his body, searching for something that Izaya knew too well what that was, the raven smiled at him. "I'm fine."

Shizuo shifted uncomfortably at being discovered, truth was, that he did this nearly every single day, when Izaya came home, making sure he was okay, that nothing seemed wrong. He'd probably notice the most insignificant bruise or scratch, no matter how minor. Izaya laughed, as if he didn't know, as though Shizuo thought he had been so discreet about it. Of course, he wouldn't tell him he knew, that this wasn't the first time Shizuo had done it, he'd keep that to himself. Shizuo then locked eyes with him and then pulled him onto his lap, Izaya let out a surprised squeak at the sudden movement. Shizuo held him close, embracing him. "It's not your fault you know."

Izaya bit his lip. "Shizu-chan I-"

"It's not your fault," Shizuo repeated, "you didn't break our promise." Izaya tensed and reached his hand up to grab the back of Shizuo's shirt. "You helped the guy sure, but you didn't know, and you went and corrected your mistake as soon as you realised. You told me you had to fix an issue and I should have just trusted that; not made you think that what you did would somehow piss me off." Shizuo tightened his hold with a sigh. "You didn't break our promise."

Izaya closed his eyes, relaxing under Shizuo's warmth. "I should have known."

Shizuo shook his head, shifting them so he could look at Izaya properly. "You can't know everything all the time, give yourself a break, don't blame yourself, it's not your job to know how shady people are. They come to you for info, you don't have to know their background too."

"I used to want to, know everything about everyone, it's just fun."

Shizuo smiled knowingly. "Is that what this is about?" Izaya grinned, but Shizuo could see that it was forced. "You've got nothing to worry about, just because you've changed, that doesn't mean you've stopped being you, I would never change that about you, because you're the one I fell in love with, you can be everything you want to be, and I would still love you because I know that underneath, there's something a lot more then what's on the surface."

Izaya couldn't find the words to reply, Shizuo just always caused this reaction in him, he was just simply awed everyday by the sheer unconditional love the blond gave him. He leaned forward and pressed his lips against his, the hold on his shirt loosening as he pushed his hands up under it. He let all his movements say what he could not express verbally.

….

Izaya's short fingernails dragged across Shizuo's back as he was pushed closer and closer to his limit. Breathless moans drew from his lips as Shizuo thrust deep inside him, gentle but with just enough force to create such pleasure. Izaya tilted his head back, Shizuo nibbled at his neck, his breathing just as fast. "Shizu-chan…. I'm close." Shizuo moved up and kissed him, stopping a moan escaping his lover's lips as he began to pump him vigorously. "Ngh…shit…." Shizuo threw his head back as he thrust and came hard, Izaya cried out as Shizuo stroked him fast until he too released his orgasm.

Breathing heavily, Izaya tightened his hold for a moment, riding out his pleasure. Shizuo gently pulled out and shifted to one side, he looked at Izaya, a hand was over his face.

"You okay?"

Izaya chuckled, as if he just asked him that. "You…. wear me out, Shizu-chan…."

Shizuo smirked. "Sorry about that."

Izaya clicked his tongue when he glanced at him, seeing Shizuo's smirk. "Like hell you are…." He then gave him a smirk of his own. "You're pretty proud of yourself aren't you."

Shizuo laughed. "I suppose I am."

Izaya shook his head, Shizuo wouldn't know it though, but he was the only one that could do this to him, cause him to writhe in pleasure like this, push him to new heights. He wouldn't admit that, it was just something he wanted to keep to himself, it felt more special that way. He sat up, wincing as he did so, it was the good kind of feeling, sore but oddly satisfied. He then snorted a laugh when he saw Shizuo's back as the blond shuffled off the bed. "That's a good look on you."

Shizuo looked over at him, then got up and turned to try and glance at himself in the mirror. "Tsk, proud of yourself?"

Izaya's eyes glinted with excitement. "Very, it's not the first time though, but that doesn't make it any less fun."

Shizuo shook his head. "Animal." Izaya laughed and swung his legs over the bed and then stood.

"Like you're one to talk, you don't realise it, but every time we do this, you get more possessive, it's like you've got this animalistic side to yourself; it just comes out."

Shizuo blushed. "Don't be ridiculous."

"It's true you know." Izaya moved toward him and kissed him slowly. "I like it."

Shizuo shoved him off playfully. "Shut up."

Izaya chuckled. "Don't be embarrassed Shizu-chan, I'm very desirable, it's only natural that you'd want me to know I'm yours."

"That's not what I was doing."

Izaya smirked and splayed his fingers over Shizuo's back. "No? that's what I was doing."

Shizuo blushed deeper. "I don't even know I'm doing it; I know that I don't own you."

Izaya laughed harder. "You make it sound like it's a bad thing. Some humans do act like they own their partners, but the way they do it isn't quite the same as how you do it. I told you, you're just animalistic, it only happens in certain – situations."

"Is that supposed to make me feel better?"

"It was supposed to, yes. Let me give you an example. Remember in the club?" Shizuo clenched his fists and Izaya knew that it was probably a bad idea to bring that up, not entirely willing to talk about that situation either, but he continued anyway. "Before that. When those others approached me, you threw one of them to the floor?"

Shizuo remembered that, he then snorted. "I remember you laughing."

Izaya chuckled. "I was still getting to know you, we hadn't been together that long, it was funny."

"Is that one of the situations you were talking about, when guys approach you?"

Izaya somewhat shrugged. "I suppose. It's not like you go around beating up everyone that even dares to look at me, not like that, but more so when needed, like then. It's more like a protective instinct, rather than possessive, maybe that was more the correct term."

"I didn't really think about it at the time, I was too pissed at you."

"Let's not talk about that anymore, we've come a long way since then, but those are the kinds of situations I was talking about, that and sex." Izaya then grinned at him.

"I guess I see what you mean. That still doesn't mean I'm aware of it, it just happens."

"I really don't mind." Izaya leaned forward and kissed him. "I'll always be yours."

…

Shizuo sighed in frustration, he was getting one hell of a headache. Izaya looked over at him, they were sat on the couch, paperwork splayed out on the coffee-table. "The hardest part is over; we've presented our details and our documents to the registration office of our intention to register our partnership. It's full proof, now we just need to figure out everything we want for our ceremony."

"They said there's a twenty-eight-day waiting period, you seem pretty confident that nothing is going to happen."

"Why would it? Everything we supplied is good. There are no legal reasons that either one of us can't go through with this, so stop worrying." Izaya picked up two sheets of paper. "Now, these are the two venues that I could get for the date I gave you. They're both relatively close, I was just wondering which one you prefer."

Shizuo looked them over, he really wasn't all that bothered, he was going to, 'marry' Izaya regardless, so he didn't care where they were. But the raven seemed excited about it all, even though he'd never voice it, so Shizuo would indulge him. He pointed to the one on the left, it looked nice and it felt right. "That one."

Izaya looked it over again, the hall was big, so there was plenty of room and it didn't seem all too much like a church. The place also held other events, such as conferences and business parties, so they might not even have to be in that exact hall. They didn't need all that room, but it didn't matter either way. He'd spoken with both venues and each of them had said they could decorate it to their liking. Izaya wasn't bothered all that much about that, but if they could rearrange some of the furniture in one of the rooms - like the conference room, that would be a much better setting for them, he didn't want to go overboard, and he bet Shizuo didn't either.

"It looks like the better one out of the two, I was pondering on this one too. I spoke with both, and they're going to hold the booking date for the twenty-eight days. That way, we know they're both available when we receive our document."

Shizuo smiled. When, not if, Izaya really had that much confidence. "That makes sense, what other things do we need to figure out?"

Izaya then picked up a notepad and pen. "Guests."

Shizuo grimaced, he couldn't imagine standing in front of a load of people while they declared their feelings toward one another. He knew they'd both prefer this whole thing without a ceremony, but some of their friends, they deserved to share the moment with them. "We don't have to have that many, right?"

Izaya shook his head, it wasn't as if he wanted a massive audience either. "No, just the ones that are close to us." Izaya then drew a line down the middle of the page, printing their names on either side of the divided space. He began jotting names down on his side. Mairu, Kururi, Shinra, Saki, Anri.

"What about that other kid, the one that's with Saki, and what about Namie or Satoshi?"

Izaya sighed. "If I start inviting everyone I know, then this brief list is going to become long very quickly."

"Oh, I get your point." Shizuo laughed. "I doubt Namie really wants to see it anyway."

"Probably not, so I don't think she'll be all that offended if she doesn't get an invite. I just want this to be small, as much as it can be."

Shizuo then took the notepad from him, Izaya didn't need to put Celty down on his side, because he knew Shizuo would. Izaya peered over as Shizuo began writing down his guests. Kasuka, his parent's, Tom, Celty.

"Are you sure that's all you want?"

Shizuo shrugged. "Like you said, we don't want everyone. I was going to put Kadota down, but that would then mean the others would have to come and well, I know there's one among them that won't be able to contain themselves."

Izaya grinned. "Erika. I know, I thought of that too, it was the same reason why I didn't write him on the list either."

"They're not each going to get a plus one, are they?"

Izaya chuckled as he shook his head. "That'll defeat the purpose of a small ceremony wouldn't it?"

Shizuo laughed. "I guess so."

"Well that wasn't too hard, the hardest part, might be the witnesses."

Shizuo raised an eyebrow. "Witnesses?"

Izaya picked up another document, which told them everything they'd need for the signing. "There has to be two witnesses, including the registrar. Those two will be signed onto the schedule document, along with our own names. I think, and you might agree, that we treat it as if they were our best man. One witness for each of us, I already have mine in mind."

"Already?"

Izaya tilted his head with a smile. "I haven't asked him yet, but I'm sure he won't object. He's the only one I would want; of course, if you don't want to see it as a best man, it can be a woman too."

"I get the basic idea. I just - there's a few people I would consider."

"I know, but there's a lot of other things for us to decide. If which ever one you choose, we can involve the other in something else, if you want."

"Like what?"

"Well, there are options for a reading." Izaya picked up a folder and opened it across their laps. "I got this from the Ivy hall, there's one for the other too, but this is the one we've chosen. There are different readings in here, that whoever we choose, can read this out. It's a guide, the readings are supposed to be what's allowed to be said, since it can't be anything religious. I skimmed through a few, I think the basic idea is that it relates to us, as if we're saying the words ourselves."

"Kind of like vows?"

Izaya nodded and then gave him a knowing smile. "I don't know about you, but I don't feel very comfortable declaring such sentiments in front of people, regardless of who they are."

Shizuo laughed, in complete agreement. "I definitely agree with you there, we'll just pick something and have someone else read it out?"

"Why not, saves the embarrassment."

Shizuo nodded. "Seems like whoever is coming, can be involved somehow."

"They don't have to be, and don't just agree with everything I say, I can tell that this whole thing is confusing you," Izaya teased, oh yes, he knew very well that Shizuo would just go along with it, just so he didn't have to think too much on the ideas.

"Shut up, like you said, the hardest part is done anyway. I'll give my input, I promise."

Izaya nodded and then they moved on. "We also have the option, that we either walk in together or we go separately, like we don't see one another before the ceremony starts, if that's the case, one of us would go with the guests and the other would wait somewhere else, we'd arrive at different points, so that neither of us would see the other."

Shizuo instantly disliked the very idea. "I'm not walking in there by myself!"

Izaya chuckled at his outburst. "You don't have to be the one that walks in by yourself."

Shizuo looked at him. "Seriously? You're telling me that you would walk in there, knowing that everyone's attention would be on you and-" Shizuo caught Izaya's smirk and he snorted. "Yeah, that sounds exactly like you."

Izaya chuckled, and then something else came to his mind, something he'd read. "On second thought, let's walk in together."

Shizuo raised an eyebrow. "Why the sudden change of mind?"

Izaya picked up yet another piece of paper. "These are some suggestions for the ceremony. They often suggest music, you know, like certain songs." Shizuo couldn't believe Izaya was actually considering that possibility, then again, when he thought back on it, their very first time, Izaya had played a song. Shizuo smiled, huh, Izaya could be romantic after all. Izaya caught him smiling and raised an eyebrow. "What?"

Shizuo shrugged. "Nothing, I thought you weren't the romantic type."

Izaya rolled his eyes. "Shut up, it's just a suggestion."

Shizuo nudged him. "Sounds to me like you already have a song in mind."

Izaya's cheeks tinted a little, damn him and his knowingness. "There's input on when we can have the songs play. As we walk in, when we sign the document, when we leave, when we're saying the declarations…."

"Maybe that's a bit much. If you want to, which I can tell you do, and you can act like you don't all you want; but how about just one when we walk in, and one when we sign the document?"

Izaya shrugged. "If you want."

Shizuo shook his head. "So what song did you have in mind?"

Izaya smiled. "It should be a surprise, I do have one, for the signing."

"What is it?"

"A surprise."

Shizuo huffed. "Since that's your angle, I'll go ahead and pick the song we walk in to."

Izaya chuckled. "You know how childish that sounds?"

"Shut up, I think it's a good idea. It's kind of like the readings, they'll be a representation of how we feel." Izaya raised his eyebrow with a smirk, Shizuo glared at him. "I know what I said! You don't have to act like I don't know big words all the time." Izaya laughed at him.

"It was just the concentration on your face just now, it was funny," Izaya then crawled onto his lap, "but it was hot."

Shizuo smirked. "Is that so?" Izaya hummed and captured his lips, wrapping his arms around Shizuo's back. "We should finish the planning stuff first." Izaya pulled away, a disappointed pout on his face, Shizuo laughed and Izaya shuffled off his lap. "What else can we have?"

"Well-" Izaya picked up the suggestions sheet again, "we don't have to walk in alone."

"I know, we just discussed that."

"Tch. Let me finish, I meant, that others can walk in with us. I think, like with the witnesses, it'll be like having bridesmaids."

Shizuo pulled a face. "Isn't that kind of - feminine?"

Izaya laughed loudly. "I had a feeling you'd say that."

"Like you didn't think of it either."

"That's true, but I still think it'll be fitting, it's a good role to play, don't you think so?"

"You make it sound like we're in theatre."

Izaya shrugged. "I just figured, since you got so worked up about this not being as simple as getting married, I thought you might want it to feel like that as much as possible. The ceremony itself has given us that freedom at least."

Shizuo nodded, he now knew why Izaya wanted all these extra inputs, he was right, they had to grab the opportunity while they could. "It'll definitely have to be females that walk in with us, I can't really see any of our male friends doing that." Izaya chuckled in agreement. "We're doing rings right?"

Izaya raised an eyebrow at him, well that an almost nervous question. "I thought that was the basic point. The rings are as close to a marriage as we're getting, so no need to be nervous about it."

"I wasn't, I was just asking."

Izaya knew him too well, "Uh-huh. I think we've got everything covered, though we should pick someone to oversee the music too."

Shizuo nodded. "Good idea, at least then we'll know they'll get it right."

"Since we are doing rings, we can give those to the witnesses, least then we won't have to worry about them too much."

"Is that everything?"

Izaya smiled. "I think so, we just have to let the registrar know about all the arrangements, and of course, send out the invitations, or we could just-" Izaya didn't get to finish his sentence since Shizuo's lips was now pressed against his. All thoughts left the raven's mind as he was pushed back against the couch cushions. "Something on your mind, Shizu-chan?" Izaya grinned at him.

"Something…" Shizuo groaned out as he began kissing his way down the informant's jawline and down his neck.

….

"You've got to be fucking kidding me," Shizuo heard Izaya curse from where he sat on the couch, he was watching television while Izaya worked. Shizuo muted the volume and turned to look at his lover.

"What's wrong?" Izaya was frowning, glaring even. "Izaya?" Shizuo got up from the couch and walked over to him, he saw Izaya's fists clench, wondering what the hell had gotten him so pissed. "Oi, talk to me."

Izaya leaned back in his chair, honestly, he wanted nothing more than to shove his fist through the screen. "Remember when we put in the paperwork, and the registry office told us that if there are no legal reasons found, or objections made, during the twenty-eight-day period, that we'd receive the schedule document?"

"Are you about to tell me they found a legal reason, how is that possible?"

Izaya shook his head, almost wishing that were the reason, he might not have been as angry. "No, that's not it."

Shizuo gripped the back of Izaya's chair. "Then what?" he already knew what the other reason could be, but he didn't want to believe that was true.

"There's been an objection."

Shizuo knew, of course he knew, as if they had the nerve. "Who?"

Izaya leaned forward, linking his fingers, trying to stop them from shaking in anger. "My mother."

"Are you fucking serious!?" Izaya just nodded in response, he was fuming inside, but he wasn't one to let it show too much, not like Shizuo. "There's only two days left! Doesn't that count for something!?"

Izaya shook his head. "Apparently not. They said they're going to look into it."

"What happens after the twenty-eight days though? Even if it gets fixed, would we have to wait another twenty-eight days?"

"I don't know, I don't think so, but it's possible."

"Is this her way of telling us that she's won?"

Izaya stood up and walked away. "I don't know." He really was angry, and he'd rather not take it out on Shizuo.

"Where the hell are you going?"

"Out. I need some air, I don't care if you come with me, I just want to not think about it right now."

Shizuo stared after him, Izaya was so distressed and upset, and he'd be damned if he was going to let him walk out of here on his own. "All right, I'm coming." Maybe some fresh air would do them some good.

…..

Shizuo stared at the bar's neon lights, the sign in the window, reading out in bright blue were the words Eagle Tokyo. He didn't even know why they'd come to Shinjuku, considering they both now lived in Ikebukuro. Though it wasn't the city that he questioned, it was their location. "This isn't really what I had in mind when I followed you, why are we here?"

"I told you, I just want to take my mind off things for a while." It was then Shizuo realised that Izaya was planning on coming here, whether Shizuo was with him or not. Izaya looked at him. "I know what you're thinking, so don't even say it, it's just a bar. It'll be quiet around this time anyway."

Shizuo snorted, like that made him feel any better, as if Izaya was just going to come here by himself. "You really would have come here, even if I didn't follow you?"

"Yes?"

Shizuo felt like he was being tested, if he got angry now, then it would look like he didn't trust him, and he never wanted Izaya to feel that way again. He needed to show him, wanted to show him. Besides, he used to work in a bar, so it wasn't as if he should hate going into one, he couldn't say it wasn't his thing. "All right, we're out now anyway, might as well do something."

Well, he certainly passed the test. Izaya thought that Shizuo would get annoyed about him coming here, especially by himself, but the blond surprised him. He then grabbed Shizuo's wrist and led them into the bar, there was a set of stairs at the entrance, the whole place had an illuminous light appearance. The two made their way down the steps, there were a few people around, some in groups, some in pairs, and some just by themselves. Shizuo followed him to the bar, getting the impression that this wasn't the first time Izaya had been here either. "I haven't been here since before you and I got together." Shizuo blinked.

"How do you do that?"

"Do what?" Shizuo shook his head, Izaya knew exactly what he was talking about, he laughed. "I honestly can't read minds."

"Stop that! It's creepy."

Izaya laughed again. "Shizu-chan, you give yourself away just by your expressions, I know you too well."

"It's still creepy."

Izaya then ordered them both a drink, Shizuo stared at the drink and then at Izaya. "Don't say a word."

Shizuo growled, for once, not caring that Izaya just read his mind again, he was more concerned with what was in Izaya's hand than anything else. He slid his own drink toward him, both the same, sake, and by the smell, it was a double. For Izaya to even consider drinking, what his mother had done must have really upset him, not in the literal sense, but he knew Izaya was extremely angry. He wasn't as good at reading the raven, but he knew enough to know that at least. Their drink's in hand, they simply sat on the bar stools, just enjoying the casual vibes of the place, if he was honest, Shizuo liked this place a lot better.

Eventually, music began to play quietly to liven the place up a bit. "Wanna dance?" the two turn toward the voice, and Izaya almost burst into laughter, the one who had spoken just now, had the guts to ask Shizuo to dance. He was more amused then jealous.

"Are you blind!? Can't you see I'm with someone!?"

The guy ran off in fear, Shizuo glared at him and then turned to see Izaya laughing. "That was good Shizu-chan, very smooth."

"How the hell can you laugh about that?"

Izaya was still laughing. "Because it was funny."

"I need a smoke," Shizuo grunted and pulled his pack of cigarettes out.

He was approached by the barman who tapped the no smoking sign on the wall. "Oi, not in here, out back, there's a smoking area."

"Yeah, all right." Shizuo looked at Izaya, the raven grimaced.

"I'm not coming with you, I hate the smell, you know that."

Shizuo frowned, he didn't want to leave Izaya by himself in a place like this, it wasn't the raven he distrusted, it was those around them. "I'll be back in a minute."

"I'll be waiting." Izaya gave him a little wave and Shizuo walked toward the back of the bar, stepping outside. He turned back to the front, it had been a long time since he'd been to this place, it had changed since the last time he was here. Izaya eyes soon fell upon someone familiar. The guy instantly locked eyes with him and recognised him in a second, Izaya watched him walk toward him, he took a sip of his drink, feeling the odd taste burning down his throat.

"No way, no actual way, Izaya Orihara. I can't believe it's you, I haven't seen you in like forever." The man smiled and leant against the bar, he was just as Izaya remembered him being, blond, just a few inches shorter than him, sporting a blue waist coat and black jeans with a white shirt. Huh, maybe he did like blond's after all. "Where have you been? I was beginning to think you just disappeared from the planet or something."

Izaya grinned a little, swirling his drink before taking another sip. "I don't live around here anymore, and I've been busy."

"You were always a workaholic. So what's with being here then?"

Izaya felt a sense of familiarisation when he spoke his next words, "Just taking a break from the world."

The man chuckled. "Just like old times." Izaya shrugged and downed the rest of his drink, resisting the urge to shudder at the strong taste. It was then the man noticed the other drink set on the bar. "Company?" he motioned to the glass, Izaya looked slightly confused by the question, and then he realised, for a split second he forgot Shizuo was with him. He looked down at his now empty glass, well that was enough of that, he placed it back on the bar behind him.

"He's outside."

The man smiled at him. "Hope you've given him a warning."

Izaya narrowed his eyes then. "Meaning?"

"Come on Izaya, we both know you're not the relationship type."

"Things change."

The guy leaned forward slightly, not buying it for a second. "Not really a coincidence that you came here, you always came here, to take a break from the world, to find me."

Izaya scowled at him, they'd had a little fling, occasionally, nothing that ever insinuated otherwise. "Are you sure it wasn't you seeking my attention? I'd have probably left with someone else, but you were always approaching me first." God, Izaya was starting to feel disgusted with himself, it sounded like he slept around a lot. That wasn't the case, not really, it was just an escape, that's all.

"We can have some fun now, I'm not with anyone."

Izaya laughed, seriously? This guy was really that stupid, he began to wonder why he'd even gone with him half the time. "I am."

The man blinked at him, noticing the raven's expression. "You're serious aren't you."

"It is."

He shook his head, as if he really didn't believe it, he'd always thought, that Izaya would be one of those he'd just keep going back to, no ties, just as long as it was them. "Damn, maybe you're right," he laughed nervously. "Maybe it was me that always looked for you."

Izaya smirked. "I don't blame you for that."

"You don't look a day older, still as hot as ever…" Izaya leaned back on his stool, was he seriously going to try and kiss him? He was about to reach for his switchblade, pressing his back to the bar to distance himself as far as possible. It was then, in a flash the guy was floored, a crack was heard when he was punched hard in the face. Izaya looked to his right, not really needing the confirmation, he then flinched under his glare, whoops. He heard the man start to groan in pain, Shizuo probably broke his nose, ha.

Shizuo walked over to him, towering above the writhing man, he pulled him up by his jacket. "Go near him again, and I'll break every bone in your fricking body, understand!?" he then head-butted him and everyone in the bar flinched, the blond threw him to the floor before turning away. Izaya stood up, hands in his jacket, he really didn't need Shizuo's help, but he didn't blame him. Shizuo stalked back to the bar, grabbed his drink and knocked it back, noticing that Izaya had already finished his. He shook his head. "Can't ever leave you alone for five minutes," he growled and then turned to leave.

"Shizu-chan-" Izaya huffed as he started walking off, Shizuo was leaving him alone again. "Déjà vu," he muttered, but it was loud enough to reach Shizuo's ears. The blond stalked back over to him, grabbed him by the wrist and dragged him to the exit. "Wha-"

"I'm not taking any chances this time." Izaya smiled.

They stood outside now, great, it was raining. "God damn it." Shizuo folded his arms and then looked at Izaya who'd zipped up his jacket and pulled his hood up.

Izaya looked up at him with a guilty expression. "Are you mad at me?" Shizuo rolled his eyes, he honestly wasn't, he could see Izaya protesting the advances the moment he stepped back into the bar, not that he really needed to see to know he would anyway. Izaya stepped toward him and hugged him, it surprised him for a moment, he just wasn't expecting the sudden affection, especially on the street. "Animalistic," Izaya said quietly, making Shizuo laugh a little, yeah, maybe that was true after all.

He wasn't sure, but he could feel Izaya shaking a little against him, he looked up, the rain was getting heavier now. He wrapped his arms around him then, wondering what had gotten into him, was this the reason why he didn't drink? Izaya had been annoyed when they came here, he sighed, tightening his hold. "It'll be okay you know; it'll work itself out."

Izaya shivered and clenched his fists into Shizuo's shirt. "Let's go home."

Shizuo nodded, it'd probably be better for them to get a cab, he didn't want Izaya getting fucking sick again.

….

Izaya grinned as he dangled an envelope in front of Shizuo's face, the blond just got through the damn door. He blinked and shut the door behind him. "Are you always this excited to get mail?"

Izaya chuckled, in too good of a mood to retort back to Shizuo's sarcasm. "This came today," he said and extended the envelope toward him.

"I can see." Shizuo raised an eyebrow, Izaya was certainly in a good mood.

This time, Izaya rolled his eyes. "Just open it."

Shizuo laughed. "All right, sorry." He took the envelope and Izaya followed him to sit on the couch. Shizuo took the contents out and his eyes scanned over the document. "Is this-"

Izaya grinned. "That's our schedule."

"But - I thought." Shizuo looked at him for an explanation.

"I got an email a few days ago, the objection was denied, for the fact there was no real reason for it, other than my mother being her usual wonderful self. Apparently, 'Because the idea is ridiculous,' wasn't a plausible argument." Izaya chuckled. "I'm sure that wasn't quite the words she used, but you get the idea."

Shizuo sighed in relief. "So it's okay? This is the final document we need?"

"We just have to take it to the venue on the day and sign it."

Shizuo huffed a laugh, feeling so happy, this was it, they were going to do this. Izaya smiled and took the document from Shizuo and placed it back in the envelope, then placed it on the coffee-table. The moment he did, he was flattened to the couch, his wrists bound above his head as Shizuo held them with both hands. "This is happening, it's actually happening, isn't it?"

Izaya couldn't help but find Shizuo's excitement adorable, he'd never seen the blond so happy. "If you still want to, yes."

Shizuo leaned down and captured his lips. "I love you Izaya, I love you so fucking much."

.

Izaya laughed, he couldn't help it, he really didn't think they'd get this far, he was surprised and overwhelmed, yet he was so happy, never thinking that Shizuo could ever make him feel this way. He leaned up and brought their lips together again. "Are you sure you want to do this?"

Shizuo raised an eyebrow, seriously? He was asking him that, now? He then grinned. "Til death do us part, right?"

Izaya chuckled. "Maybe not even then."

Shizuo smiled, how had this happened? He couldn't even remember when, he just couldn't imagine his life without the raven underneath, figuratively speaking or in the literal sense. This man, this annoying, confident, strong minded, adorable man; Shizuo just wanted to hold him tight and never let go, he wanted to make him happy, protect him forever.

….

The conference room had been lightly decorated with streams of blue, red and black, hanging from the ceiling, Shizuo's and Izaya's favourite colours. Chairs had been rearranged into two dividing sections; each section had five chairs each in a row. On the left, sat left to right; Tom, Namiko, Kichirou, Kasuka, and a space reserved for Celty beside him. On the opposite side, sat left to right was; Shinra, Anri, Saki, and two spaces reserved for Mairu and Kururi.

The carpet was blue, and the walls were white, there were single white roses attached to the podium stand in front of them, and a long red piece of carpet had been laid out straight through the middle. Everyone was dressed in their formal attires, the men were in suits, some grey, some black. Namiko wore a light green long dress with a small black jacket over it. Saki had a long black skirt and a white blouse, Anri had on a knee length red skirt and a black blouse.

The registrar smiled as he stood up onto the podium, clearing his throat to get everyone's attention. Shinra looked over at Celty, she was there, stood to the side, she waved over at him, she had been asked to control the music, she felt honoured for even that much, to be involved in something so special. Izaya and Shizuo had considered everyone's involvement carefully, and how they might feel about it all, they knew Celty wasn't really the type to want too much attention on her. It seemed fitting that she'd be the one to play the music, and only she knew what the songs chosen were.

"Good morning ladies and gentlemen, my name is Reija Sama, on behalf of Chinto Hirogawa and myself, I would like to welcome you on this special occasion. When Izaya Orihara and Shizuo Heiwajima will affirm their love and publicly declare their commitment to each other. Izaya and Shizuo have chosen to pledge themselves to each other by committing to a legally binding contract."

Outside the doors, Mairu and Kururi stood with their brother and Shizuo, dressed in the same dress but distinct colours. Mairu's hair was wavy and in a half bun, her long dress was yellow. Kururi's hair had been straightened slightly and her long dress was dark green; both were wearing their necklace. Izaya realised then, just how grown up they looked now, still as troublesome as ever, but he was so proud of them. Mairu smiled at him. "What?"

Izaya chuckled lightly. "Nothing, I'm just glad you're here."

Mairu giggled. "You're not getting all mushy on us now are you?"

Izaya chuckled as he shook his head. "Wouldn't dream of it." The girls chewed their lip; they just couldn't believe this was happening. Izaya was wearing a black tuxedo, with a white shirt and a single red rose attached to his pocket. They both reached up and he drew them into a tight hug.

"We love you," Mairu whispered, feeling emotional suddenly.

"I'm so proud of you both, you know that right?"

Kururi nodded her head. Shizuo smiled at the touching scene, even he couldn't believe how grown up they looked. They pulled away and Izaya wiped a tear from Mairu's cheek with his thumb. They then turned to Shizuo and he embraced them tightly, leaning down to their level. "We're really happy for you," Kururi told him.

"You better take care of him." Mairu knew he would, there was humour in her voice.

"I will, I promise. I love you; you are great kids." Shizuo then huffed a laugh. "Well, young women now, I guess, almost."

The twins pulled away, smiling up at him, his tuxedo suit was white with a black shirt underneath, and he also had a single red rose attached at the pocket. The registrar that was with them smiled and said, "Are you ready?"

Izaya looked at Shizuo and the blond smiled at him, taking his hand to link them together. "We're ready," Shizuo said and Izaya nodded, unable to speak, he wouldn't admit it, but he was nervous, now that they were here, it was real.

Reiji smiled and nodded over to Celty, telling her that the first piece of music should be played on cue. "Would everyone please take a stand, as we await the couple to enter and join us."

Chinto opened the doors, and everyone stood up, Celty pushed the play button as Mairu and Kururi was the first to enter. Shizuo felt Izaya's hand tighten and he looked at him. "It's okay to be nervous, but I'm here, all right?"

Izaya chewed his lip, he then took a breath and smiled at him with a nod when they soon joined the twins and entered the room. Shizuo's eyes looked at those important to him, he was grateful to every single one of them. Then, he spotted someone that looked familiar at the corner of his eye, she was stood at the back, on his side of the seating arrangement. She waved at him with a smile, his eyes widened, it was the woman from the bakery. Izaya caught him looking and he smiled, Shizuo snapped his head back to him. "Surprise."

Shizuo didn't know how to express what he felt then, when had Izaya planned that? "Thank you." Shizuo looked back over to her, he smiled and gave her a wave of his own.

~Is this the end of the moment
Or just a beautiful unfolding, of a love that will never be or maybe be?
Everything that I never thought could happen
Or ever come to pass and I wonder
If maybe, maybe I could be all you ever dreamed
Cause you are...

Beautiful inside
So lovely and I, can't see why I'd do anything without you, you are...
And when I'm not with you
I know that it's true
That I'd rather be anywhere but here without you
(Anywhere but here)

Is this a natural feeling
Or is it just me bleeding?
All my thoughts and dreams
In hope that you will be with me or
Is this a moment to remember
Or just a cold day in December?
I wonder, if maybe, oh, maybe I could be
All you ever dreamed, cause you are...

You're beautiful inside
So lovely and I, can't see why I'd do anything without you, you are...
And when I'm not with you
I know that it's true
That I'd rather be anywhere but here without you
(Anywhere but here
Anywhere but here)

The words echoed inside his head as they took their place in front of the podium, it seemed to fit them perfectly, like the words was everything Shizuo had wanted to say. Izaya tried to stop his hand from shaking, he couldn't even let go of Shizuo's. The blond squeezed his gently, reassuring him, telling him silently that it was okay. Izaya looked over at him, and suddenly, he wasn't so nervous anymore, because Shizuo was here, and he looked so calm.

"Izaya and Shizuo," the registrar's voice brought him out of his daze, and everyone sat down again. Mairu, Kururi, and Celty took their seats. "Today is a moment in history for both of you. In the presences of your witnesses, friends and family, the words that you say today complete the foundations for a long and happy future together."

It wasn't as if they wanted to express any vows, but it seemed only right they chose a few words, it was from the suggestions sheet they had gone through, so it didn't feel as embarrassing.

They turned to face each other, and suddenly, it felt as though only the two of them were in the room. "I promise that I will be there for you Shizuo, each and every day, in good times and bad, I will be by your side, I will be your guardian, your partner, and support you on our lifelong journey together."

Shizuo smiled, who knew Izaya could be so nervous, but at the same time, so full of confidence in the way he'd just spoken. "I promise that I will be there for you Izaya, each and every day, in good times and bad, I will be by your side, I will be your guardian, your partner, and support you on our lifelong journey together."

It was then that Kasuka and Shinra stood up from their seats, Kasuka on Shizuo's side and Shinra on Izaya's.

Saki smiled, trying to hold back her tears of happiness, she leaned her head on Anri's shoulder, Anri giggled silently, trying to hold her own tears. "He looks so happy," Saki whispered.

Namiko clutched at her tissue. "That's our boy up there."

Kichirou smiled and wrapped his arm around her. "All three of them." Namiko nodded.

"Ladies and gentlemen, Izaya and Shizuo have brought rings with them today. This giving of a band signifies the promise of a love that is everlasting and is a public affirmation that the contract between Izaya and Shizuo will be honoured."

Shizuo turned and retrieved the silver band ring from Kasuka and then turned back to Izaya. "This ring is a token of my love and a sign of the promise I make to you today." Izaya almost laughed as Shizuo tried to ignore the fact that his hand was now shaking a little, not so calm after all. He watched as the silver band was slipped so gently on his left-hand finger.

Izaya then retrieved his own ring from Shinra, it was silver too, just to match his own, they'd chosen them together. "This ring is a token of my love and a sign of the promise I make to you today." Shizuo became mesmerized as the ring was slipped onto his finger. He looked back up at Izaya, who seemed to be smiling at him teasingly, obviously catching his expression.

"Every day you live, learn how to receive love with as much understanding as you give it. Be constant and consistent in your love. From this, will come security and strength. Would those of you, who have been asked to do a reading, please do so now under the biding law to which has been discussed with you."

Saki took a deep breath and stood up, holding the piece of paper tightly in her hands. Originally, Tom had been asked to do a reading, because Shizuo felt bad that he couldn't have him as well as Kasuka to be a witness. Tom shrugged it off, telling him that he wanted nothing more than for Shizuo to just enjoy his day, happy that he got to be there with him. Izaya had mentioned Saki as a possible choice and Shizuo happily agreed.

"May the sun bring you new strength by day, may the moon softly restore you by night. May the rain wash away your fears, and the breeze invigorate your being. May you, all the days of your life together, walk gently through the world and know its beauty. Treat yourselves and each other with respect and remind yourselves often of what brought you together.

"Give the highest priority to the tenderness, gentleness and kindness that your connection deserves. When frustration, difficulties and fear assail your relationship, as they threaten all relationships at one time or another, remember to focus on what is right between you, not only the part which seems wrong. In this way, you can ride out the storms, when clouds hide the face of the sun in your lives, remembering that even if you lose sight of it for a moment, the sun is still there.

"And if each of you takes responsibility for the quality of your life together, it will be marked by abundance and delight. Now you will feel no rain, for each of you will be shelter for the other. Now you will feel no cold, for each of you will be warmth to the other. Now there is no more loneliness, for each of you will be company for the other. Now you are two persons, but there is only one life before you. Go to your dwelling, enter into the days of your life together and may your days be good and long upon the earth."

Shizuo curled a finger around Izaya's, unable to resist the urge to hold him any longer, they were just standing there, listening, and he didn't quite know what to do with himself. Getting the hidden message from him, Izaya curled his whole hand around his, linking them together and Shizuo squeezed gently.

Then, Namiko and Kichirou soon stood, a piece of paper of their own, Shizuo had asked them to do a reading, because he wouldn't be who he was today without their support. They read a section at a time, taking it in turns, starting with Kichirou. "I love you because you're my future, my present and part of my past. My world has been turning so quickly and time just keeps moving so fast."

"I love you because you have something no ordinary person can give. A warmth that I'll cling to forever - hold on to so long as I live. I love you because your devotion is tender and wonderfully rare. Could anyone ever imagine the magic moments we share?"

"I love you because you are truthful, your eyes hold the key to my heart. Tell me you share my commitment and say we shall not be apart."

"I love you because you are wonderful, you give me all that I need. A hug when I seek reassurance, a smile if we have disagreed. I love you because…. I just love you, for too many reasons to say and I'll always be right here beside you, a breath and a heartbeat away."

No one could say the words didn't fit them perfectly.

"Please repeat these binding vows to one another. I promise to be open and truthful with you and no distance or obstacle will get in our way, with love from the deepest of my heart. I - Insert your name, take you – insert your partner's name, to be my civil partner in law."

Izaya looked to Shizuo, telling him to go first, because his throat suddenly felt constricted.

"I promise to be open and truthful with you and no distance or obstacle will get in our way, with love from the deepest of my heart. I, Shizuo Heiwajima take you, Izaya Orihara to be my civil partner in law."

Izaya smiled, damn it, Shizuo made it look so easy. He nodded and finally found his voice. "I promise to be open and truthful with you and no distance or obstacle will get in our way, with love from the deepest of my heart. I, Izaya Orihara take you, Shizuo Heiwajima to be my civil partner in law."

"Ladies and gentlemen, the couple are about to sign the schedule that will make them legal civil partners. May the two witnesses, who will be entered onto the certificate, please join them."

Izaya and Shizuo were followed by Kasuka and Shinra to the table behind the podium, Celty stood up and took her place back at the music pod.

"Izaya and Shizuo, please read back to me, the following words before you sign your schedule today. I declare that I know not of any legal reason why we may not register as each other's partner. I understand that on signing this document, we will be forming a civil partnership with each other."

The two repeated the words clearly and without hesitation. As soon as the music began to play, the four began signing the document, the last piece that would bind them together.

~There's nothing I can say to you
Nothing I could ever do to make you see
What you mean to me
All the pain the tears I cried
Still you never said goodbye and now I know how far you'd go
I know I let you down but it's not like that now
This time I'll never let you go

I will be all that you want and get myself together
'Cause you keep me from falling apart
All my life I'll be with you forever
To get you through the day and make everything OK

I thought that I had everything, I didn't know what life could bring
But now I see honestly,
You're the one thing I got right,
The only one I let inside
Now I can breathe 'cause you're here with me
And if I let you down I'll turn it all around
Cause I would never let you go

I will be, all that you want and get myself together
'Cause you keep me from falling apart
All my life I'll be with you forever
To get you through the day and make everything OK

'Cause without you I can't sleep
I'm not gonna ever ever let you leave
You're all I got
You're all I want
Yeah
And without you I don't know what I'll do
I could never ever live a day without you
Here with me, do you see, you're all I need

Once they had finished signing the document, the registrar spoke once more. "Izaya and Shizuo, you have both demonstrated your lifelong commitment to one another today. In the presence of your friends, family and witnesses, it gives me great pleasure in declaring that you are now both civil partners to one another. Congratulations."

Shizuo grinned, couldn't hold back anymore and he pulled Izaya into his arms and kissed him with all the emotions he felt. Izaya hadn't expected it, but he wrapped his arms around Shizuo's neck and deepened their kiss. Those who sat before them stood up, tears forming in their eyes as they clapped.

And I will be, all that you want and get myself together
'Cause you keep me from falling apart
All my life (my life) I will be with you forever
To get you through the day and make everything OK.

"We did it Izaya, we actually did it."

Izaya smiled and kissed him again lightly, and then he whispered, "I love you, Shizu-chan."

Shizuo smiled back, his forehead against Izaya's. "I love you too, flea…"

Izaya chuckled.

…..

"Izaya?" Shizuo called as he walked into the bedroom, they'd only come here to get changed. They were supposed to meet everyone at the Russia Sushi soon. Apparently, those who hadn't been there at the ceremony had planned an after gathering; Simon and Dennis had kindly offered to cater for them, for once, free of charge. Never had they offered them free Sushi, so he was damn well going to accept it. Except the only problem was, that Izaya didn't seem to be here.

"Where the hell has he got to, we're supposed to be there in an hour. I just bet he snuck out while I was in the shower." It was then Shizuo spotted blue pants and a white shirt on the bed for him, with a note next to it. He picked it up and it read. Meet me at Raira academy when you're done, and wear this. Xx. Shizuo raised an eyebrow. "What's he up to?"

Shizuo walked across their old school yard, it was strange, coming back here. The sun was setting and there was a tinge of orange across the sky. It was eerily quiet, everyone had obviously gone home, had it always been so big? He looked down as his foot brushed against something, it looked like a broken piece of goal post. On instinct he picked it up, a familiar setting soon filled his mind.

"This is where we first met."

Shizuo heard his voice then, turning around to see his partner. Izaya was sat, one leg propped up on a bench just across from him. Looking exactly like he did back in high school, same jacket, same top, except he was taller now. "Except there was a pile of unconscious body's around us" Izaya grinned. "You know, we're supposed to be at Russia sushi."

"I thought this would be fun first. Why not celebrate our civil partnership with a little flashback."

Shizuo raised an eyebrow. "That your idea of a honeymoon?"

Izaya chuckled lightly. "If you want." Shizuo grinned a little, and suddenly, it was like he was there, back in time, looking at Izaya as he clenched a hand around the post, the informant really had thought of everything. "Since Shinra isn't here, I'll have to introduce myself instead. I'm Izaya Orihara." Izaya grinned darkly at him, and it was suddenly remembered everything from that day.

Shizuo frowned. "You piss me off!"

Izaya opened one eye, challenging him with his stare. "Oh yeah?" he then sighed silently. "That's too bad, I was hoping you and I could have some real fun together, now why you gotta be like that…. Shizuo." Izaya smirked at him, Shizuo glared, trying so hard not to smile. He then lunged forward, dropping the post and threw his fist at Izaya as he jumped at him. Izaya dodged, jumping off the bench, causing Shizuo to once again break it in half. Shizuo span around only to feel the blade of Izaya's knife slash him across the chest.

Damn, he's serious. Shizuo looked up to see him grin, eyes narrowed.

"See? Now aren't we having fun?"

Shizuo snorted quietly. "You're not going to get me hit by a truck, are you?"

Izaya continued to smirk and then he ran, Shizuo stared after him for a moment and then a rush of adrenaline pumped through his veins and he began to chase after him. Izaya ran down the street, away from the school, leading Shizuo through the familiar alleyway. He looked back at him with a grin, Shizuo was grinning now too, as Izaya turned the corner, Shizuo stopped.

Izaya leaned against the wall for a second, catching his breath, of course, he wasn't going to get Shizuo hit by a truck. Izaya began to search for him, Shizuo was supposed to come out of the alleyway, so where the hell was he? A noise behind, he spun around with his flick blade, only for Shizuo to catch his wrist.

"What now flea?"

Izaya glared and then jumped on him, Shizuo toppled backwards and they fell to the ground. Izaya grinned at him, knife still firmly in his hand. "You tell me." Shizuo shifted his body, growling as he raised his legs up and shoved Izaya off with his feet. Izaya fell backwards, landing non gracefully on his ass, Shizuo laughed as he dusted himself off.

Izaya frowned up at him, ignoring the hand offered down to help him up. Izaya looked to his left, he grabbed the lid from the trashcan beside him and lobbed it. Shizuo growled and by the time he smacked the thing away, Izaya was gone.

"Little bastard…" He then turned back into the alleyway, he couldn't have gotten far, and Shizuo would have heard him if he'd run past him. "Izaya!" Shizuo searched around, fists clenching by his sides.

Izaya smirked as he watched him from the small space in between the wall. "Idiot."

"Flea!"

Shizuo approached Izaya's hiding place, and the moment he walked past, Izaya grabbed his arm and pulled him in. Shizuo grunted at the sudden attack, he startled and threw his fist forward on instinct. Izaya groaned and landed in a pile of black bags. Shizuo blinked at him, and he suddenly realised. Whoops. Izaya spat and glared at him. "That fucking, hurt."

Shizuo walked toward him. "Well who the hell grabs someone from behind like that!? Of course I'm going to react that way." Shizuo held his hand out again, and this time, Izaya grabbed it and Shizuo pulled him to his feet. "I'm sorry, you could have said something-" Izaya shoved him forward and pushed Shizuo against the wall, his bleeding lip curling upwards into a grin. Shizuo felt the blade against his cheek and just barely the sting of a clean cut. "Izaya, you-"

"Now we're even."

"Dick. I'd have kicked your ass back then for that, you wouldn't be standing right now."

Izaya's grin widened. "And now?"

Shizuo grabbed his wrist and then a fist full of his jacket as he shoved him backwards, up against the opposite wall. Izaya grunted at the roughness but his grin remained. "What I will do, is this…." Shizuo pressed his lips against Izaya's, tasting the metallic on his tongue, smearing the red slightly across his cheek. Izaya moaned as Shizuo grinded against him, dropping the knife as he wrapped his arms around his neck. They pulled away and Shizuo touched two of his fingers to Izaya's lip. "Sorry."

Izaya chuckled. "We were role playing, ne?

Shizuo snorted. "We should probably head to Russia sushi. After all, they went to all the trouble, and it's free." Izaya pocketed his knife and Shizuo noticed the grazes on his knuckles, matching his own. "Damn it, what the hell are they gonna think happened?"

Izaya laughed. "We could always let Erika decide."

Shizuo frowned. "Yeah right."

…..

Izaya and Shizuo walked into the restaurant, their friends and family toasting to them with drinks as they entered. Kadota and the gang were their too, Namie and Satoshi, along with Masaomi and Mikado. Well, it didn't matter anymore whether he knew or not, though Izaya would have loved to have seen Mikado's face once he'd been told. Shinra then ran in front of them, arms spread out wide as he took in the two's appearance. "What the hell happened?"

Shizuo laughed and placed a hand behind his head. "Well, we thought it'd be kind of fun, to re-enact the day we first met. Minus the truck of course."

Shinra's glasses slid down his nose as he slumped in surprise. "Seriously?"

"It was Izaya's idea."

Izaya grinned. "It was fun."

Their friends stared at them in surprise, only the two of them could find something like that fun. Shinra sighed, his friends were fricking crazy. He then looked at Izaya and pointed to his lip. "I don't remember you getting that last time, and Shizuo, your cheek…"

Izaya pouted. "He punched me in the face."

"You grabbed me from behind, what was I supposed to do!?"

No one said a word as Shinra continued to scold them for their stupid little game. Suddenly, they heard a squeal, everyone turned their attention to the voice. "That's so hot!" It was Erika. "Role playing your first encounter, fists flying, hearts pounding as they struggled to get the upper hand for dominance….so - hot!"

Kadota sighed in annoyance. "God damn it."

Izaya laughed as he and Shizuo were led to a table by Shinra to get patched up. "That's pretty accurate to be honest," Izaya said.

Erika's eyes sparkled brightly as she bounded over to them. "Who won!?" Izaya and Shizuo looked at each other and then grinned. "Aww come on! Tell me!"

Izaya then looked over at her. "I'll leave that up to you."

Erika just squealed again as she danced around the restaurant, her mind taking her to who knew where.

Shinra then raised his glass and everyone followed his lead. "Here's to you both. It took you a hell of a long time to get here, and god knows I would know that better than anyone. Izaya, Shizuo, I couldn't be prouder than I am right now, to call you my friends."

"Cheers!" everyone clinked their glasses.

"Now kiss!" Erika shouted, the two looked at her and she pleaded. "Pleaseeeee?"

Shizuo and Izaya smirk as they look at one another. "I think we can do better than that," the raven said, he got up from the table and held his hand out to Shizuo, he looked over at the Dullahan. "Celty?" she nodded and then a song began to play. Izaya turned his attention back to Shizuo. "Dance with me."

Shizuo's eyes widened, he glanced at their friends and then back at Izaya's awaiting hand. He gulped, took it and Izaya pulled him to the middle. "Are we really going to dance in front of everyone?"

"Just pretend they're not there."

Erika looked like she was going to pass out, her eyes watering.

~Every night in my dreams
I see you; I feel you
That is how I know you go on

Far across the distance
And spaces between us
You have come to show you go on

Near, far, wherever you are
I believe that the heart does go on
Once more you open the door
And you're here in my heart
And my heart will go on and on

Love can touch us one time
And last for a lifetime
And never let go till we're gone

Love was when I loved you
One true time I hold to
In my life we'll always go on

Near, far, wherever you are
I believe that the heart does go on
Once more you open the door
And you're here in my heart
And my heart will go on and on~

Saki smiled and placed her hand in Masaomi's, and he looked over at her, he smiled back and pulled her with him. They began to dance too. Soon, couples followed their lead, Shinra reached for Celty's hand and guided her to the floor, her body fluttered. Mikado nervously grabbed Anri's hand, she looked at him and finally, finally she smiled knowingly, Mikado smiled and led her to dance. Walker giggled and bowed to Erika. "Care to dance my lady?" They both knew it was just a joke, but she accepted anyway, not willing to miss out on the fun.

~You're here, there's nothing I fear
And I know that my heart will go on
We'll stay forever this way
You are safe in my heart and
My heart will go on and on~

Izaya's hand threaded softly through the back of Shizuo's hair as they stopped swaying when the music finished. Shizuo closed his eyes and captured his lips, trying to block out the cheers of their friends and the high-pitched squeal of Erika. "I love you," Shizuo said quietly.

Izaya huffed a laugh. "I hope so, you're stuck with me for good now."

"Forever and always."

333