He's almost scared to open the envelope that seems way too heavy in his hands. After what seemed like forever, the moment of truth arrives, and he had been waiting eagerly. Yet now when it comes, he's hesitating and standing in the middle of his living room for a solid seven minutes.
His heart pounds against his chest and he looks up at the ceiling for a split second before heaving a big exhale. He rips open the top of the envelop slowly and when his fingers take hold of the letter inside, he shuts his eyes as he pulls it out.
Don't be such a chicken! Just get it over with!
Without a second thought, he opens his eyes and quickly reads the first sentence.
When he does, his mouth opens in shock.
"Holy shit…"
Right at that moment, like destiny is at play, his doorbell rings, somehow louder than usual in his ears. He can't keep his eyes off the letter and he walks towards the door without tearing his gaze away from it. His hands find the door knob, turning it, and once the door opens, he hears panting.
"Hide! Y-You got it too, didn't you!" The voice of his lover is the only sound that could break his frozen state from the letter in his hands.
There is concern written on Kaneki's face when he finally meets his eyes and he thinks he must look like he's seen a ghost.
Hide swallows and he grabs Kaneki's hand, pulling him into his apartment. Kaneki has a similar envelope in his other hand, already hastily opened and folded over. Once Kaneki takes off his shoes, Hide continues leading him in until they're in the living room.
"So…"
They both speak at the same time and Hide stops himself quickly. "You go first," he urges him.
Kaneki bites his lower lip and looks down at his feet. "Umm…I…"
Hide's eyes narrow and his heart beats louder. He fears the worst outcome and he's already formulating his next action.
Kaneki doesn't speak for another moment and then, suddenly, a wide smile breaks across his supposedly nervous expression. "I got accepted! Look!"
Kaneki can't stop his excitement from bursting forth as he shoves the paper in Hide's face, showing him his wrinkled acceptance letter to Kamii University.
Hide nods slowly in response and his lips form a thin line. Kaneki notices Hide's stoic reaction right away and his smile disappears. His grey eyes grow wide and he steps closer to his lover. "Hide? What about you? Did you…"
Hide shakes his head and Kaneki gasps, his hands reaching for him. "Hide…no…"
"Just kidding, babe, look at this sucker! I got in too!" Hide shouts in the next second and he also proudly reveals his own acceptance letter to his boyfriend.
Kaneki covers his mouth in pure joy and he tosses his paper aside, lunging forward and jumping into Hide's arms. In response, the blond drops his letter as well and spins Kaneki all over the room as his lover tightly wraps his legs around his waist. Kaneki's arms are secure on Hide's neck and his face presses against the side of his cheek.
The boys cheer and laugh loudly, not caring if the neighbors hear their ruckus. They become dizzy, but they don't mind. After all the blood, sweat, and tears poured into the books, they've finally made it.
"Oh my god, I can't believe we actually did it! We got accepted together!" Kaneki shouts between laughs. He hangs onto Hide with all his strength, not letting go for a second.
Hide's spinning slows down, and he loses his footing, causing him to fall over along with his lover in his arms. Kaneki gasps as he finds himself lying on top of Hide and when he pulls back to see his face, he's happy to see the blond beaming. Hide's cheeks are red from his emotions and he slaps a hand to his forehead.
"At long last, we did it! Can I die now? I think I can die now," Hide says dramatically, his eyes closed.
"You can't die, Hide! We've only just started!" Kaneki tells him with a chuckle and he bends over, kissing his nose.
Kaneki stays lying on his boyfriend, clinging to him like a baby. Hide strokes his back with his right hand, his other hand caressing his lover's soft black hair. Kaneki can't stop smiling as he listens to Hide's loud heart. He gazes at their crinkled letters on the floor and he slowly lifts his head. His grey eyes meet the brown eyes that are warm and calm.
"I get to stay by your side. We'll be together, won't we?" Kaneki says, his voice quiet. His hands rest on his lover's chest, his legs straddling his core.
"You're stuck with me, Ken. Like you said, we're only just starting," Hide replies.
Kaneki grins and Hide's hand wanders to touch his cheek, enjoying the delicate feel of his skin under his fingertips. Kaneki's hands reach up to grab the one holding his face and his fingers curl over Hide's as his face tilts into his touch. His eyes close and he sighs softly, his grip tightening on his lover.
"We really tried to scare each other earlier, didn't we?" Hide breaks the silence.
Kaneki smiles and he opens his eyes. "I was so ready to deny my acceptance if you didn't get in, you know?"
Hide's eyes widen, and he begins to sit himself up. "What? You're joking right?"
Kaneki ends up sitting on his lap as they are face-to-face, his hands grabbing onto Hide's shoulders with the change of position. He frowns, his brows knotted. "No, I'm not."
Hide shakes his head. "Don't do that, Ken. Don't throw your dreams away just because of me. If I didn't get accepted, I would want you to go. I'm serious."
Kaneki's eyes disconnect from Hide and he looks down, saying nothing.
"No matter where you go, I'm still with you. You know that."
"Okay…" Kaneki replies quietly. He leans forward so that his head rests against Hide's chest.
Hide's arms squeeze him, and he smiles. "But anyway, we did it, Ken! Let's keeping looking forward, yeah?"
Kaneki nods and Hide feels his black hair brushing on his neck. While Hide begins to mutter about calling his father to tell him the news, Kaneki knows what decision he'd make in the end if this didn't happen. His fingers clench onto Hide's shirt and he soaks in the warmth he needs.
Over the next whirlwind months, the boys finish high school and ready themselves on their new path towards university. Every milestone, they accomplish together. Hide's father can't make it and Kaneki's estranged family is ready to kick him out. It doesn't really matter to them either way.
Moving out of old homes and on to the next, the boys leave behind their childhood neighborhood and live closer to the university. It's bittersweet as they have many memories attached to their old home, both good and bad.
"Sometimes it feels like a part of you dies when you leave a home you've lived in for so long…at least I feel that way whenever I have to move…"
Kaneki remembers Hide saying that when they both get into their new apartment.
"It's silly… Sorry. I should be happier, right? All this talk over the years and when it finally happens…"
Hide's smile doesn't match his body language or his eyes. It's too clear; Kaneki notices every detail about him and he understands. He always does.
Hide quickly tries to mask his feelings, rambling on about their future, their new lives as fresh college boys, all the possibilities they could explore. He's exhausted but he tries to keep his energy high. That's when Kaneki brings him back down to earth.
Kaneki holds his face in his hands and pulls him so that their foreheads touch.
"It's okay, Hide. I'm tired too," he whispers to him.
Hide slows down and he breathes in Kaneki's words.
Things are happening too fast and it's overwhelming, even when it's all exciting. So, they make it a habit to take things one at a time.
Kaneki always keeps a close eye on Hide. When he senses Hide is better, that's when he's happiest. At the same time, Hide looks over Kaneki, protects him. Now that Kaneki lost his aunt's feeble support, he takes on the role of both lover and guardian. He vows to make sure Kaneki is safe with him every day. This is something he cannot let himself screw up. It's imprinted in his brain.
They take their time adjusting to the changes at a calmer pace. Together.
Kaneki smiles as he looks up, sitting on his knees in front of the small bookcase that holds all his books. His father's books, his own, and now with some of Hide's old manga combining with his collection. His fingers reach out to stroke the spines of the books in front of him.
"How's your library lookin'?" Hide says with a smile. He enters the room that they deem the office or study room, right across from their shared bedroom.
Kaneki looks up at his love and his smile widens. "I'm so happy that I get to keep them in a better place. Not in my aunt's house, but here. I feel at peace."
Hide grins and he ruffles Kaneki's hair. "I'm so glad to hear that. I'm sure it'll grow over the years." Hide stretches his limbs and he cracks his neck from side to side.
"I gotta finish unpacking the rest of my stuff. Better hurry my ass up!"
It's been almost two weeks since they've settled into their new home. Kaneki already feels he can breathe easier now. He is free from his poisonous relatives and even more, he's living with the one person he adores the most.
He doesn't want to be anywhere else but here.
I hope we can be like this forever…
Kaneki has long finished unpacking his stuff, not having much in the first place aside from his books, so he goes to help Hide. The blond finds he's hoarded too much junk over the years, so he ends up trashing most of it, some he doesn't remember even owning. Kaneki can't help but laugh every time Hide makes the silliest confused expression when he comes across another item he forgot about.
By the time they get Hide's stuff organized, they have two large trash bags to toss out. Hide jokingly hides his face in shame when Kaneki gives him a pointed look. His hand covers the right side of his face.
"Okay, we're done. Finally. Thank you. I'm horrible, I know," Hide says with a nervous chuckle.
Kaneki shakes his head and then lifts the trash bags. "I'll get rid of these."
"You sure? I can handle it," Hide tells him, stepping forward to take the bags. Kaneki moves his arms out of Hide's reach.
"I got it. You should rest. That was a lot of stuff we had to sift through," Kaneki smiles.
"I can't believe I had so much crap. Okay then. Well, I'm gonna go take a bath. I'm all sweaty, man," Hide comments in disgust. The two then separate temporarily.
Their apartment unit is located on the first floor so it's easy for Kaneki to locate the large waste receptacle outside. When he returns, he can hear the water running from the bathroom. Without hesitation, he sneaks towards the bathroom door, standing in front of it for a second and then quietly opening it an inch. His eyes peek in and he sees Hide taking off his clothes, his bare skin catching Kaneki's rapt attention.
Hide's arm and leg muscles entice him further with every movement he makes and once Hide gets into the bathtub, Kaneki lets himself in. He needs to be near him.
Hide looks up in surprise at Kaneki's silent entrance while he's in the half-filled tub. A smirk crosses his face when he notices Kaneki blushing. "Oh, you wanna join me?"
Kaneki doesn't answer, letting his action do the talking as he removes his clothes. Hide watches with darkened eyes, his mouth dry when he takes in Kaneki's body. Pale, but beautiful in every way. His thighs beg for Hide's hungry caress.
Kaneki bites his lips raw, his foot dipping into the water and he makes room for himself in the tub that luckily is big enough to fit them. He turns off the faucet once the tub is filled up and he scoots himself closer to Hide until their wet bodies touch.
Kaneki's breaths are heavy on Hide's mouth and he licks the flesh there. "You're so hot…" Kaneki whispers and he sucks on Hide's lips.
Hide presses his mouth harder on Kaneki's soft lips, his tongue taking the other's breath away as he tastes his lover.
"Mmm!"
Kaneki moans against his mouth when Hide's hands grab onto his ass in the water, squeezing the round cheeks. Hide brings his body closer, pulling Kaneki into him and making water splash out of the tub with his aggressive movement. Hide finds Kaneki's thighs enveloping him and his hands massage his muscles there, causing more delightful sounds to spring forth. Kaneki's desire for him only increases.
Kaneki breaks their heated kiss, gazing at the brown eyes that own his soul. Hide reads all of Kaneki's feelings in his desperate gaze. Overflowing with love. All for him. It burns him up and sets his own soul on fire.
"Can I tell you something, baby?" Hide whispers to him. His lips touch Kaneki's as he speaks.
Kaneki loves the way Hide calls him by that term and he answers by inching closer, his breath stolen when Hide kisses him hard again.
"I used to be scared with the way you look at me."
Kaneki's grey eyes sparkle as he listens to Hide. His lips are red, and he whispers back. "Why?"
"Because you always look at me like no one else does. Like I'm the one holding you down. Like I'm the only one that matters…" Hide doesn't break their gaze.
"That's all true. You are the one that matters the most," Kaneki replies.
"And now when you look at me, I just want you more and more."
Kaneki's heart beats faster with every word his love whispers to him. He hangs on every word like it's his life.
"I feel selfish to say this but you're mine. Mine."
Hide's mouth takes Kaneki's lips again, his tongue swiping in his lover's mouth in all the places he's touched repeatedly. Kaneki's heart melts like lava, the organ squeezing in Hide's grasp so hard with the way he's kissing him.
"I'm insane. If anyone else takes you from me, I don't know what I'd do. I don't want anyone else to touch you."
Kaneki grins and his fingers claw on Hide's neck. Their mouths connect again, and he speaks. "God, you don't know how happy I am to hear that. Hide…"
Kaneki brings Hide's hand up to touch his chest and Hide's brown eyes grow warmer when he feels how hard and fast his heart beats. "I am yours. Fully. Completely. Touch me. Kiss me. Do anything with me. My body, my mind, everything, it's yours."
The hot water flushes their skin and Kaneki's mind spins with the heat and his feelings for the man holding him.
Kaneki's hand grasps Hide's neck and he feels Hide touching the sensitive area where his kakuhou resides. The sclera of his left eye slowly change to black, the iris red, when their eyes meet again.
Hide's lips find Kaneki's neck, licking and sucking his wet flesh. His tongue finds his pulse and he sucks hard there, loving the way Kaneki moans for him.
"I love you. I love you."
Kaneki is breathless as he speaks, and his hands claw down Hide's back and through his hair.
Hide's heart swells at those words and he holds his baby tighter, so tight that Kaneki may bruise.
When Hide lifts his head, Kaneki holds his face, his lips desperate to connect with his mouth. He can taste his sweat and indulges in the way Hide's hands roam on his wet body. His senses suffocate with nothing but the man he loves.
Hide presses his lips on Kaneki's shoulders when they clean each other. They can't stop. It's hard for Hide to get clean when Kaneki continues kissing him again and again. Kaneki smiles when he succeeds in getting what he wants. His lips take in Kaneki's mouth deeply each time, leaving his lover impatient for another while he's washing himself.
"You're gonna kill me, babe," Hide manages to say between Kaneki's greedy kiss.
Kaneki's smile is so bright in his eyes. Hide can't say no to him.
Kaneki's lips are bruised and slightly swollen from Hide's teeth and hard kisses. He loves it too much and he still wants more.
"Delicious. You taste so good," Hide whispers on Kaneki's waiting mouth.
The water is cold by the time the boys finish bathing and they don't bother putting any clothes on. Kaneki smiles wider as Hide carries him in his arms, taking them to their bed once they're dry.
Hide's breath catches in his throat admiring his lover's body as he sets him on the mattress. Kaneki notices his intent gaze and he bites his lip, his hands gripping his arms.
"I like the way you're looking at me. It excites me," Kaneki tells him.
Hide pulls back the blanket, his eyes never straying from his lover. Kaneki's arms reach for him, eager for him to hold him close. Hide wastes no time to please him, letting their warm bodies collide as they embrace, the blanket covering their lower half.
Kaneki sighs happily when he's finally back in Hide's arms. He looks up and finds Hide staring at him with such endearment, like he's treasure. Kaneki's hand caresses where his lover's heart lies.
Hide's eyes close then and his breathing slows. Exhausted from the weight of the changes they've been through the past few weeks, he lets himself breathe. He's vulnerable in front of Kaneki, sleeping soundly in the next moment. Kaneki's eyes glisten and he inches closer, his lips pressing gently on Hide's mouth once more.
"I love you."
He could say that every day and it won't be enough. His heart still pounds too hard and too fast.
His fingers trace his lover's face. He listens to his rhythmic breathing. Euphoria floods his veins. He watches over his man with his endless feelings pouring out.
Another month passes, and the boys start their university days. They find college life much more enjoyable than their high school days in terms of classes. They also learn soon enough that Nishiki had been accepted into Kamii as well. The ghoul has been keeping his distance from them, however, not because he hates them. He's still in pain. He's still angry. The boys continue to give him the space he needs.
"Yoshimura offered me to work for Anteiku. As a barista, since I've been loyal to him for so long…" Kaneki says one day while they lie together in bed.
Hide grins and he tickles under Kaneki's chin. "That's great news! Take the job. Then I can stop by and try some of his coffee."
"I…honestly haven't tasted it either. I never thought to try all those years…" Kaneki admits. "It smells awfully good though. It's one of the few things ghouls can consume aside from human flesh."
"Except for you, my special half-ghoul," Hide says, bopping his lover on the nose.
Kaneki's cheeks turn pink and he giggles. "Yeah…I guess…"
Hide's eyes break from Kaneki's and his thumb rubs over his boyfriend's hand. "I should get a job too, huh? It's only fair."
"You don't have to, Hide. I'm only gonna do it part-time anyway. We've got classes keeping us busy."
"Yeah…still though."
"If you get a job, you won't have any time for me. And I'll be sad," Kaneki says. He pouts, his large eyes shining at Hide.
"Well, at least let me find a part-time job too. Like a super easy one. I swear, I'll make time for you, babe. You think I can survive without seeing or touching you?" Hide tells him. His hand grasps Kaneki's chin.
Kaneki smiles. "An easy one then. Maybe just once a week or something. And then I'm on your schedule for the rest of the week," he states with a grin.
"Jeez, I feel like I spoil you too much. Oh whatever. Fuck it!" Hide shouts. He grabs Kaneki in his arms, attacking him with kisses and bites and making his lover laugh uncontrollably.
In the days that follow, Kaneki accepts Yoshimura's offer and soon, he embarks on his first day on the job. Naturally, he's nervous, but Hide instills confidence in him.
"I'll see you during your shift, I promise," Hide tells him.
Kaneki kisses him on the cheek. "Wish me luck on not burning anybody. Or myself."
"You can do it, Ken. Besides…their uniform looks great on you," Hide says with a sly grin. His hand wanders to Kaneki's bottom.
Kaneki pinches Hide's cheek in response. "I'm gonna get in trouble if we can't keep our hands to ourselves at work."
Hide withdraws and Kaneki sighs. "It's gonna be hard to follow that rule…"
Hide chuckles and he whispers in his ear. "It's okay. Yoshimura knows about us. He'll let it slide."
Kaneki smiles at him.
Hide attends his class while Kaneki heads to Anteiku. The day goes by in a blur and it's in the afternoon when Hide finishes his school day. He spends the rest of the time scouring the streets of Tokyo, perusing the stores in search of job openings and "Now Hiring" posters.
"Kinda wish I brought my bike…" Hide mutters to himself.
As he explores further down in the area near Anteiku, he hears music, specifically a guitar strumming gently in the distance. Coupled with the string instrument, a man sings, his voice sounding cheerful and full of energy.
A sucker for all things music, Hide is naturally pulled in the man's direction and he forgets about what he'd been doing. As he strolls towards the source, he notices the man's back as he sits on one of the many benches lining the long stretch of stores and restaurants. Up closer, the man is wearing a beanie, which covers his dark brown hair. A few people stop for a minute or two to listen, some of them kind enough to spare him change into his open guitar case. He continues singing, nodding and smiling at the folk who appreciate his music even if just for a moment.
Hide is bolder, and he takes the time to crouch down in front of the young musician, smiling warmly as he rests his chin in his right hand. Hide can tell his abrupt appearance surprises the man and he stumbles over his next lyric for a split second before continuing.
The man finishes his song in the next minute and then he clears his throat, a small blush appearing on his cheeks when Hide claps enthusiastically.
"Wow, dude, that was awesome!" Hide compliments him as he stands to his feet.
The man gives a sheepish smile, scratching the back of his head. "Th-Thank you, sir."
Hide grins as the man tunes his guitar and then gets off the bench. When Hide sees him packing his guitar away, he frowns. "Aww, man, did I miss the show? That sucks. When will you be playing again?"
The man looks up at him in surprise again and his face becomes more flushed. "Uh…well, I try to come play around here every day…so…"
Hide cheers. "Oh boy, that's great! I'll stop by tomorrow and find you, so I can listen to you again! Your voice is so nice!"
The man chokes on his own saliva and he suffers a loud coughing fit, making Hide chuckle. "Thank you. Forgive me. I'm not really used to getting so much praise at once."
Hide places a hand on his hip. "That's weird. People should pass compliments out a lot more if you ask me."
The man smiles. "I agree, it surely would make the world a happier place, huh?"
Hide watches the man bending down to pick up his guitar case once he stowed his instrument away, but his fingers slip, and the case stumbles out of his hands. Hide's eyes widen in concern when the man falls to his knees.
"Are you okay?" Hide asks him right away. He kneels in front of him, his hands outstretched for the man if he needs them.
"I…I'm just exhausted. Don't worry," the man assures him with a smile. Hide doesn't buy it, especially when the man has to exert himself to stand.
"You seem pretty weak. Are you hungry or thirsty? I could get you something real quick," Hide offers.
"No, no, I'm fine. Don't waste your time on me," the man tries to convince him, waving his hand.
Hide shakes his head and he takes the man's arms, pulling him up. "I don't think so, buddy. Look, there's tons of restaurants around here. Just tell me what your favorite food is, and I'll get it for you, okay?" Hide states with a grin.
"Favorite…f-food…" the man repeats quietly. His eyes are blank for a moment as he stares at the ground.
"Yeah, come on, I'll get you anything you want," Hide coaxes him.
The man hesitates, giving Hide a nervous glance but the blond only continues smiling at him. The man sighs softly. "Well...actually a drink sounds nice. I'm not that hungry for now."
"Dude, are you sure? Just a drink?" Hide asks with furrowed brows.
The man nods and Hide keeps a strong hold on him. "Okay then. What are you thirsty for? Booze? Just kidding," Hide jokes with a laugh.
"Umm…if it's not too much trouble, you can use the change I earned to buy me some of the instant coffee drinks they have in the vending machines over there," the man states. He points over to the brightly colored vending machines lining an area in the center of the outdoor mall.
Hide thinks about where his boyfriend works, and he grins. "Wait, I have a better idea! How about I take you to a coffee shop I know! They have way better coffee than these vending machine ones."
The man shakes his head vigorously, making Hide's smile disappear. "No, it's okay. Thank you for offering, but I'll just be fine with the instant coffee. I really don't need much, honestly. Besides, I don't want to trouble you any longer than I need to."
Hide scratches his head. "What? Trouble me? This isn't any…" He stops himself when the man looks down with a solemn expression. Hide pauses, his lips pressed together firmly. "Alright then, I'll do what you want. Let's go to the table near the vending machines."
Hide bends down, taking the guitar case, despite the man's protest and he stays near the man as they walk over to the table. Once there, the man lets out a breath of relief once he sits down on the metal chair and before Hide could even whip out his wallet, the man thrusts his change into his hands, urging him to use the money he earned instead.
"Dude, relax. You're not troubling me at all, okay? I wanna help," Hide tells him as he takes the money from the man's hands.
The man laughs nervously, and he watches the blond skip energetically towards the vending machine, finding the instant coffee he wants. His eyes close as he takes in deep breaths, leaning back in his chair. Next thing he knows, he feels something cold patting his cheek.
"Wow, you really are tired. You didn't hear me for a minute there," Hide says. He pulls back the drink he held to the man's face.
The man blinks rapidly, and he notices the two cans of instant coffee and two bottles of water Hide bought for him. "Wha-this is way more than I asked for."
Hide grins. "Yup, that's right! You're going to need it so drink up!"
The man's smile is the brightest Hide has seen on him and he grins back. "Thank you so much…umm…what's your name?"
"I'm Hideyoshi Nagachika. But call me Hide," the blond introduces himself as he pulls up a chair next to him.
"Nice to meet you, Hide. I'm Ikuma. Ikuma Momochi."
Hide smiles warmly at his introduction. "So, Ikuma then?"
"Yes, sir. I mean, Hide."
Hide laughs at that and Ikuma blushes in embarrassment. "I-I'm sorry. I'm so awkward, aren't I?"
Hide wipes his eye and he leans forward on his hand. "Nah, it's all good. You just remind me of my boyfriend when I first met him eons ago."
"Oh, you have a boyfriend?" Ikuma asks him as he takes a sip of his coffee.
Hide nods, his eyes changing when he thinks of him.
"What about you? Got someone special in your life?" Hide nudges Ikuma in the arm.
"No, but it's fine. I enjoy being single and it's hard to be in relationship anyway when you can hardly feed yourself," Ikuma says with a shrug.
"Hey, that's totally cool. I respect that. Independence is hot," Hide states with a cheeky grin.
Ikuma smiles. "Y-Yeah, I guess so!"
The boys laugh and enjoy the spring breeze that blows past.
"So, how long have you been performing?"
"Not too long actually. I moved here from my hometown recently."
"For real? Wow. Need a tour around here? I know Tokyo like the back of my hand."
"No, I'm good. Thank you though."
Ikuma clutches the can of coffee in his hands as he leans back on his chair. "I love music. It's my life and I've been practicing with my guitar since I was small. I came here, hoping I can become a musician someday."
Hide smiles. "You can achieve anything when you put your mind to it. When you become famous, I'll definitely buy your album and attend your concert."
Ikuma chuckles and he brushes a hair strand behind his ear. "I don't know if I'm going to be famous, but…"
The blond smacks him on the back, causing the man to jolt in his seat. "No negativity! Someday, everyone's going to be cheering your name. And then, you'll have all the girls, and possibly some guys, chasing after you."
Ikuma scratches his cheek. "Oh my…that's a little frightening to think about."
"Go hard or go home, dude." Hide scoffs. "Look at me throwing out all these clichés. You can tell me to shut up if you want."
Ikuma laughs again. "Oh gosh, you're so funny! Also…" Hide notices Ikuma's eyes trailing up to his head. "I really like the color of your hair. I've never seen anyone with bright hair like that before."
Hide touches the top of his head and he grins. "Aw, thank you. My mother gave it to me."
"Bless her then. She must have been beautiful, because you are."
Hide's eyes widen and Ikuma immediately covers his mouth, his whole face turning into a tomato. "Oh my god, oh my god! Pretend you didn't hear that! I-oh gosh!"
Hide bursts out laughing, this time so hard he bangs his fist on the table and gasps for breath. Ikuma feels his ears burning and he berates himself in his head.
I'm so stupid! How could I say something so bold like that? I'm so weird!
"Man, you're cute, Ikuma. My stomach hurts so much right now," Hide says, wiping tears from his eyes.
Ikuma clenches his beanie and pulls it over his eyes. "I'm such a weirdo. I can't believe I just said that."
Hide is still chuckling as he looks out into the distance, giving Ikuma time to cool down from his seething embarrassment.
"Anyway, what are you doing wandering the streets of Tokyo? It can be dangerous out here by yourself, you know?" Ikuma changes the subject.
Hide looks at him with a smirk. "Speak for yourself, music man. They say I'm a lot more dangerous than one may think."
Ikuma narrows his eyes and Hide grins again. "Kidding! You really need to relax, man."
Hide sighs and brings his arms behind his head. "To be real though, I was trying to see if there were any job openings around here. My boyfriend works at this café I was going to take you to, so I was hoping I could do something part-time as well."
Ikuma smiles then. "You know, I work a few odd jobs on the side when I'm not playing music. There's a slot that just opened at this department store I work at not too far from here. You interested?"
Hide immediately turns, grabbing the man's shoulders and shaking him with his excitement. "Really? Are you serious?"
Ikuma nods and laughs. "Yes, Hide! I swear I'm not lying!"
"Is it part-time? What's the pay like?"
"I believe it is part-time only and the pay is not too bad either. You're going to break my neck, Hide!"
"Oh, my bad! I get carried away sometimes," Hide says and he quickly lets him go.
Ikuma takes a breath, fixing the collar of his sweatshirt. "Phew, you know, you're pretty strong for a human…"
Hide narrows his eyes at what he just said and Ikuma doesn't notice as he downs the rest of his first coffee can.
"Yeah, not to brag, but I can pump some mad weights," Hide says nonchalantly and he cracks his knuckles.
"Now I believe you're joking."
"Check me at the gym, dude. You'd be surprised. I can knock people the fuck out if I wanted to. People who deserve it anyway."
Ikuma chuckles. "You never cease to amuse me, Nagachika."
Ikuma then gasps loudly and he grabs onto Hide's arm. "Wait, what time is it?"
Hide's eyes widen, and he looks around until he sees the several TV screens on the buildings that show the news not too far from them.
"It's 4:35 PM, oh shit, I gotta see my babe," Hide mutters to himself.
The boys stand up at the same time and they hesitate for a minute.
"Oh yeah, you got a phone number or some kind of contact info so we can keep in touch about that job opening?" Hide asks him right away.
"No phone, but we can meet again tomorrow in this exact spot. What time works for you?"
"Umm…how about noon? That okay?"
"Yes! I'll be playing at that time too."
Hide pumps his fist in the air. "Perfect, dude! Up top!"
He raises his hand for a high-five and Ikuma blinks before letting his hand meet with the enthusiastic blond.
He's so warm…
"Take care of yourself, okay? Drink all that up!" Hide says, pointing at him with a stern look.
Ikuma nods with a smile, holding the rest of the beverages in his arms. "Yes, thank you again. I will see you tomorrow!"
Hide gives him a thumbs-up and then quickly departs in a different direction.
Ikuma watches Hide until he can no longer see the head of blond among the other shoppers around him. "He's so energetic…but…"
His expression darkens, and he places a hand to his chin in thought. "Why does he…smell like a ghoul?"
Ikuma thinks for a moment and then shakes his head. "No, he can't be one of us. No way… It must be someone else's scent I smell on him…"
Ikuma's worry is still present on his face and he heads towards his next destination.
…
Kaneki looks up immediately when he hears the bell ringing on the door of Anteiku and his mind and heart soar with instant joy when he sees Hide bustling right in.
"Hide!" Kaneki calls for him, a wide smile already on his face.
Hide is out of breath once he hurries towards Kaneki and he takes a seat on one of the bar stools in front of his lover.
"I'm so sorry for being late! I…I got distracted…" Hide says while panting. He places a hand on his chest as he calms down his beating heart.
"Are you okay, my love? Did you-" Kaneki freezes and his grey eyes grow larger in horror.
Hide notices his expression right away and he takes Kaneki's wrist. "What's the matter?"
"I…" Kaneki glances nervously from side to side, making sure no one is watching them or listening. Thankfully, the late afternoon tends to be the slower hours at Anteiku and the customers are sitting far away from them.
Kaneki sets down the cup he is cleaning, and he leans forward, his grey eyes serious as they meet with Hide's concerned gaze. "Why…why do I smell a ghoul on you?"
Hide sinks in his words and he nods his head slowly. "Ahh…I knew it…I knew he-"
"He?" Kaneki spits out.
Hide hears the change in his lover's voice. Kaneki turns away, walking out from behind the counter and taking the seat next to Hide. He doesn't care if he's still on duty.
Hide doesn't move as Kaneki moves closer and sniffs his clothes. A deep frown is set on Kaneki's face. "Tell me what happened. Did you get attacked? Who is it? I'll hunt him down," Kaneki demands, his voice colder than before.
Hide's hand takes Kaneki's trembling fist and his voice is gentle as he speaks. "It's okay, Ken. I didn't get attacked. I didn't know he was ghoul, but I had suspicions. It really does make sense now when I think about how he acted…"
"Hide…" Kaneki's eyes turn desperate and his fingers intertwine with his lover. "Please…be careful. You know I worry and my anxiety gets the best of me. If you got hurt, I…I don't think I could control what I'd do. Nothing sensible…"
Hide clenches Kaneki's hand that grips his fingers so hard, they turn white. "Ken, I'm fine. It's okay. The man I met is just a street musician. I just helped him a little because he nearly fainted. He's harmless, I can already tell. Pacifist, I'd say."
Kaneki bites his lip and he looks down at their hands. "Do you know his name?"
"Yeah. Ikuma Momochi. Really nice guy."
Kaneki looks up, searching Hide's eyes that show no hints of lies whatsoever.
"You don't trust me?" Hide whispers.
Kaneki shakes his head slowly. "Of course, I trust you. I'm just…freaking out a little. Sorry."
Kaneki's fingers begin to loosen but Hide keeps him from slipping away. "Don't apologize. It's all good, Ken. I'm sorry for worrying you though."
Kaneki gives him the sweet smile he adores. "No…I'm just being stupid…I'm happy you're here with me."
Hide grins and he leans forward, placing his lips on Kaneki's left cheek. "You're not stupid, cutie."
Kaneki smile widens, and he nuzzles his head against his shoulder.
"Please don't get mad at me, but I'm gonna be meeting Ikuma tomorrow. To make a long story short, I was job hunting when I met him, and he said he knows of a job opening at a department store downtown."
Kaneki pouts slightly and he clings to his arm. "Why didn't you drag him over here, so I could see him with my own two eyes?"
"Babe, I tried, but he was being pretty stubborn and terribly passive. He kind of reminded me of you."
Kaneki rolls his eyes. "What, you think he's cute?"
Hide chuckles. "Oh, the cutest!" he comments in a teasing manner.
Kaneki's frown deepens, and he starts to move away from Hide. The blond pulls him in closer, making the half-ghoul collide with his chest. Kaneki blushes deeply and he can't bring himself to break away no matter how hard he tries. Hide's breath tickles his ear as his head lowers.
"Ken, you know how I feel about you."
Kaneki can't stop himself from smiling.
I can't stop how I feel... He just pulls me back in…
When Hide releases him, he adores the beautiful blush on his lover's pale skin. Kaneki scratches his warm cheek and he shyly looks away from Hide until the blond pulls his chin towards him.
"You're mine…" Hide reminds him, his voice husky.
Kaneki swallows and he feels the fire igniting in his body. Just those words and a simple touch. He's hypnotized in mere seconds.
"I…I gotta get back to work," Kaneki reluctantly interrupts their moment. Hide lets him go and Kaneki already misses his touch as he quickly returns behind the counter.
There is a silence at first while Kaneki continues cleaning the cups until Hide asks him how his first day went.
"Oh god, I messed up a few orders, but thankfully the customers were nice. I think they understood it's my first day. I'm still getting oriented on making coffee so don't ask me to make you a cup. I might poison you accidentally," Kaneki warns him, his face flushed from remembering his embarrassment of the day.
Hide smiles and he taps his fingers on Kaneki's hand that rests on the counter. "Oh, but I wouldn't mind if I died by your hands…"
"Hide…" Kaneki shakes his head in disapproval with a small smile. He then sets his towel aside and his eyes turn serious again. "Anyway, tell me more about this Ikuma guy."
Hide smirks and he complies, describing the young man and telling Kaneki the details of their conversation. The more Kaneki hears about him, the more he begins to relax. Still, the sting of that green emotion inside him stirs. He just can't help it.
"Mine…" Kaneki says absentmindedly. He grips onto Hide's outstretched hand again and Hide chuckles in response.
Hide stays until Anteiku closes and he uses the time to work on his homework. Now and then, he enjoys watching Kaneki serving customers and he feels his lover staring at him when he thinks he doesn't notice.
By the time the last customer leaves the café, Kaneki is wiping the tables down and Yoshimura comes out behind the counter.
"Good evening, Hide. It's been a while."
Hide sets aside his books and he waves with a grin. "Hi Yoshimura! It's nice to see you again."
The old man looks over to Kaneki, who had just finished his task. He gestures for Kaneki to come over and when he does, he tells the half-ghoul to take a seat.
Kaneki sits next to Hide again and Yoshimura smiles. "Well, I think it's about time you boys try some coffee, hmm? It'll be on the house."
Hide's mouth opens. "For real? Are you sure?"
Yoshimura nods. "I've known you two for a while now. It's not a problem at all."
Kaneki smiles. "Thank you, Yoshimura. We would love some."
"All right, watch me closely, Kaneki. Soon, you will be able to make coffee for Hide as well."
The half-ghoul blushes slightly when Hide bumps him in the arm with a grin.
The boys closely watch Yoshimura brewing up his coffee, listening to his instructions that seem easy, but the task itself is harder than it looks.
"Any questions, Kaneki?"
Kaneki laughs nervously. "Well, no, it makes sense. But I'm going to need practice for sure."
Yoshimura smiles. "Yes. Practice and patience. It won't be too bad once you get the hang of it, of course."
Yoshimura then pushes two steaming cups towards the boys. "Here you are. Enjoy."
"Thank you!" they both exclaim in unison. The smell of the beverage fills their senses immediately.
Hide takes his cup and he looks over at Kaneki, who is already staring back at him. He holds his cup up at him. "Cheers?"
"Cheers," Kaneki says with a chuckle and they clink their cups gently before taking their first sip of the hot coffee.
The boys react in similar ways once the drink touches their taste buds.
"Holy sh- I mean, oh my gosh," Hide stops himself from swearing in front of Yoshimura, who looks at them both with a pleased expression.
Kaneki looks at Hide and then at Yoshimura. "We've been missing out. This is so delicious!"
Yoshimura nods as the two take in more of the coffee. The hot drink warms their bodies up in an instant and leaves them feeling safe and at home.
"This is like out-of-this-world amazing! Did you put some kind of secret ingredient in here and we didn't notice?" Hide asks him.
"Secret ingredient? Well, I suppose there is one ingredient that makes for a good cup of coffee," Yoshimura replies with a soft chuckle.
"And that is?" Hide urges him and Kaneki scoffs in a joking manner at how earnest he is.
He looks at the two boys before him and the nonexistent gap between them. "I'm sure you boys understand what it is quite well. You both have experienced it together for many years after all. Since the day you two met, I'm sure."
"We have…?" Hide states slowly, and he taps his lip in thought.
For once, Kaneki understands Yoshimura's hidden answer before Hide and he leans on Hide's shoulder in response, waiting for the blond to look back at him. When their eyes do meet, Hide smiles in realization.
"Oh…"
Hide looks up but finds that Yoshimura had already disappeared, leaving him and Kaneki alone. Kaneki lifts his head off his shoulder but presses his body closer next to him, his eyes shining in absolute bliss.
Hide's arm slips around Kaneki's waist and he pulls him against his body. In the comfortable silence, with the murmur of the bustling city outside and the grandfather clock that ticks in the background, Hide and Kaneki finish the coffee made special for them.
The taste of it is stronger and lingers when Hide presses his lips softly on Kaneki's mouth.