17 years ago...

"Are you still feeling sick Aki?"

"Ryu-u, it hu-rts"

Asami knelt down on the bed and took Akihito into a warm gentle embrace. It was in times like these he didn't know what to do.

He checked Akihito's fever for the third time that night.

"Still high. Aki. Let's take you to the hospital, we need to get you properly checked."

"No. I'll be okay. It's probably just the flu or something."

Asami felt him trembling, saw the strain in his expression as he pretended to be okay. In the next moment, Asami's heart almost stopped. He felt the last of Akihito's strenght leave him as he fainted in his arms.

"Aki...? Akihito!?" He grabbed his phone, speedialing Kei to bring the car around. There was no time to wait for an ambulance.

He picked up his lover, caressing him closely to his chest as he hurried down to the waiting car.

"Hurry Kei!"

In his life, there was never a time his heart beat so quickly. The world felt like it would fall apart.

The moment the car stopped at the emergency entrance, waiting doctors opened the car door, taking him from Asami's arms and onto the stretcher that wheeled him away. Asami and Kirishima followed closely behind.

The doctors rushed him into a private room, setting him gently on the bed as they began checking him.

The hour stretched on as Asami, Kei and Suoh waited in a room attached to the private room. When the doctor finally came out, Asami rushed to him.

"What's wrong with him doctor?"

"He's alright. We put him under an IV, he just needs some rest. Most likely from overworking."

"From overworking!? How can he be that bad from overworking? Are you sure?"

"From what we checked, he's in good shape. Asami-sama, overworking isisnButot to be taken lightly. Now that he's resting he will be fine. But just to be on the safe side, we are going to keep him for one night and do a full examination. All the results will be in by tomorrow as well."

"Do that, do whatever you need. Just make sure he's well."

"Of course, Asami-sama. We have only the best doctors and staff at your disposal."

"Can I see him now?"

"Yes, we will continue the tests early in the morning."

"Good."

Kirishima walked over after the doctor took his leave.

"Asami-sama, will you be staying the night?"

"Yes, he wouldn't want to be alone when he's sick. Kei, you go back to Sion."

"Understood. I will call over bodyguards to watch the room overnight. Stay safe." Kei took a peak into the main room, satisfied that the boy was sleeping peacefully, he returned to where Suoh stood. "Suoh, come with me, we've got some swans to take care of."

Asami entered the quiet room. It was dark with only the moonlight providing light. He found his kitten on the double sized medical bed sleeping soundly.

Seeing Akihito's peaceful sleeping face, memories of the night before seemed almost like a nightmare. Which he would have believed had it not been for the IV attached to his arm and the paleness of his skin. He cradled his lover's face in his palm, feeling the boy's heat.

He's alive…

From the moonlit room, he could see the bags under the boy's eyes. He gently traced over them.

Overworking… have you been overworking Akihito? It seems having my men who you lose all too easily follow you isn't enough to know how you're doing.. To think I didn't realize how tired you looked these days.

As Asami watched over Akihito that night. He swore he would protect him. He would keep him safe. He never wanted to see him weak or in pain again. He wanted to see him in the brightness of the light. And to do that, he would need to keep him far away from his world.

Akihito. My Akihito. I will protect you. So please. Get well and stay by my side.

Akihito woke up in a daze. His body ached and he didn't recognize the room he was in. It wasn't fancy enough to be a hotel room and not white enough to be a hospital room.

Where am I?

As he looked around the room, he spotted a familiar figure sitting on the chair by his bed.

Asami… Did he watch over me all night? He….looks exhausted.

When he tried to move, his arm felt especially heavy. Looking down he noticed the needle attached to him.

So, it is a hospital. Probably a VVIP room..

He took the needle out of his arm and made his way to where Asami slept.

He noticed how the lounging chair was moved from the corner of the room and brought next to the bed.

You must have called in your men to help carry it as not to wake me up.

Takaba knew. Since the moment they first met, Asami had a way of caring without showing off. His actions always spoke more than his words. That's why he wanted to understand him, to know him.

He stood in front of the sleeping man. He loved watching him sleep. There was this innocence in his expression that he didn't have when he's awake.

Ryu…

Little by little he found himself moving closer to him, until his hand was on his cheek. He slowly traced the outline of his face, his eyes, his nose, his lips… his chin, his neck, his ear, his hair… his hand ruffled through the dark black hair. He loved the feeling of his lover's hair.

Ryu.. I want to know more about you, to understand you and… to stand beside you. Ryuuichi my love, thank you for staying by my side.

"Good Morning my love."

"Good morning my dear."

"Are you feeling better?"

"Yes, did you carry me princess style and rush me to the hospital. I guess I must have fainted since I don't remember anything."

Asami stared at his lover, talking and moving. He felt his body relax as the tension dissapated.

"Yes, I was worried you wouldn't wake up."

Takaba was surprised. In these last five years since they've been together, Asami had been more vocal with his feelings but Takaba was still surprised everytime it happened.

"I'm sorry for worriying you."

"...that's okay. Akihito...take a break from work."

"...why? I'm fine now. I feel alright."

"They said it was from overworking. I want you to rest properly."

"...alright. I will, but only until I recover. Okay?"

Takaba turned his head slightly, waiting.

"Okay. I can't win against your pouting expression."

"Hehehe." Akihito straddled Asami on the chair and let his head rest on his broad chest. "I love you, Ryuuichi."

Asami wrapped his arms around his lover, holding him closer.

"I love you too, Akihito."

They stayed like that for a long while, simply feeling each other's presence and heat.

"Asami-sama, all the tests have been completed, as we haven't found anything alarming. Takaba-sama is able to leave the hospital now. We will contact you if something comes up."

"Very well. Thank you doctor."

Asami entered the room to find Akihito changing out of the hospital gown.

"Do you need help?"

"No. the nurse said I'm free to go now. what did the doctor say?"

"He said there was nothing serious and that you just need to rest."

"Great! Let's go home Ryu."

"...ya. let's go home."

In the past, Asami didn't have feelings towards the idea of a home. Before he met Akihito, it was more of a safe house where he would rest and eat if he had the time. Even as a child, he was part of a family that didn't know the meaning of family or home. But it was only after he met his boy and began living with him that things began to change. He began to understand the meaning behind family and the warmth of a home. A place to return to.

Suoh waited for them outside the hospital with the limousine.

"Nothing less conspicuous?"

"Comfort first."

"Riiight."

On the way home, Akihito fell asleep on Asami's lap and didn't wake up when they pulled into the underground parking garage.

"Should I carry him Asami-sam"

"No. That's alright, I'll do it."

Asami carried his lover back to their apartment and laid him gently on the bed. Making sure not to awaken him, he quietly took off his jacket, shoes and placed the warm blanquets over him.

Suoh stood in the living room waiting for his boss to return.

"What's the news on the swans?"

"Its not looking good. They continue to interfere with our trade routes and we have yet to find the ring leader."

"Damn. Let's go meet the one we captured the other day. I want to be back by the time Akihito wakes up. And Suoh."

"Hai?"

"Double the guards."

"Of course. Asami-sama."

Akihito woke up to the sound of sizzling oil. Leaving the warmth of the bed, he made his way to the kitchen to find his lover cooking breakfast.

"I'm surprised you managed to keep this up for the past week. Don't you have work Asami?"

"I do. But I can't leave my sick lover to make breakfast alone, what kind of man would I be."

"I remember you being the kind of man that can't cook."

"I learned a few things from my trusty secretary."

"Right, a few things..."

The table was set up with about twenty different side dishes and grilled fish centered as the main.

"Now go wash your face and come sit down so I can enjoy this time with you before I leave for work."

"How sweet of you."

Takaba turned and headed towards the bathroom not missing the grin he grew to love. Looking forward to eating breakfast together he couldn't help match that grin.

He returned to find Asami sitting at the table cleaning his piece of fish.

" Asami... "

"It would be bad if you ate a bone."

"... Asami...the sun won't rise from the west tomorrow will it? You won't get hurt or disappear will you? You won't kick me out will you?"

"... Akihito, what nonsense are you talking about? Don't think about strange things and come eat."

"Mmm... It's just..."

"Aki... What's wrong? Why are you crying?"

"Eh?" Akihito reaches for his cheeks and feel the tears on them. "I'm crying..."

Asami rushed to Akihito and held him close.

"What's wrong? Did your pain come back?"

"No, that's not it..."

"Then?"

"I'm just overwhelmed."

"This past week, you've been by my side and you're being so kind and warm. It just suddenly scares me." Akihito looked up to look into Asami's worried eyed. "I'm scared Asami, scared of how happy I am right now. Scared of how much I love you. Scared of losing you."

"Aki..." Asami understood. He wasn't scared of anything, anything except losing what they have now. He wouldn't know what do to if he ever lost Akihito. But he wasn't one to worry about things that hadn't happened yet. He held Akihito closer as they peered into each other's eyes. "Akihito, even if everything falls apart in the next moment. Let's not worry about that. Let's live enjoying every moment we have."

"Ya, let's do that. Starting with breakfast?"

"Starting with breakfast."

They sat down and ate the food in bliss. Talking about everyday things that made both of them feel right at home.

After clearing the table, Takaba brought Asami his watch and jacket.

"I'll be back in the evening." Asami gave Aki a peck on the lips before leaving theit home. "Ittekimasu"

"Itterashai"

Once the door closed behind Asami, Akihito leaned against the wall clutching his stomach.

Damn, why is it hurting again? And I'm so tired... I should go take another nap.

He crawled back into bed, letting the warmth slowly sooth the pain and tiredness away.

His ringtone woke him up just as the sun was setting.

Asami?

He picks up the phone and sees an unregistered number. Hestitating, he picks up.

"Hello"

"Hi, is this Takaba Akihito-san?"

"Yes it is, may I ask who is calling?"

"Ah, terribly sorry. I am a colluegue of the doctor who oversaw your stay about a week ago. My name is Doctor Borison."

"Dr. Borison, may I ask why you are calling me instaed of my doctor?"

"Of course. I was reviewing your file and believe I may know the reason behind your symptoms."

"I already did all the nessessary tests and everything came out negative. I'm perfectly fine doctor. Thank you for your concern. Now have a nice da-"

"But you're still in pain and feeling unwell. Are you not?"

"How-"

Even Asami doesn't know I'm still in pain. How does he know?

Takaba-san, I assure you. I would only like to help you. I have had another patient in the past with similar symptoms. That's why when I overheard my colleugue talk about it I had to check your chart myself."

"What is it? Is it something serious?"

"Don't worry, its nothing dangerous. I would like you to visit the hospital and come see me. I would like to do one more test to confirm my theory."

"...alright. I can come now."

"That would be perfect. I will wait for your arrival."

I better not tell Asami until I know what it is. Wouldn't want to worry him. I just need to figure out how to leave unnoticed...

"Please lie down on the table Takaba-san."

"What kind of test are we doing?"

"Its an ultrasound."

"But I already had one the other day."

"Ultrasounds are used in many different locations. Today we are going to use it the same way most females use it.

Females?

"Now just relax, the jel will be cold at first."

"ah! cold."

"Hahaha sorry about that."

"Please take a deep breath here."

"Huuu! Hooo"

"and another one."

"Huuu! Hoo"

"Very good. Ok, were all done Takaba-san."

"...already?"

"Yep. Let's go to my office."

xxx

"Sorry Doc, can you repeat that?"

"Congratulations, you're two months pregnant."

"...But...I'm a guy."

"I know this must be shocking. However please rest assure that althought its very rare, it does happen."

"No, no, no. There must be some kind of mistake."

"These are your ultrasound images. These here is your baby taking form. Its a little too early to tell if its a boy or girl. but its definetly growing healthy."

Takaba reaches for the photo, he still can't believe the words that are being said to him.

This is my child? ... our child...

"Takaba-san, the reason you have been feeling ill for a while now is because you are having morning sickness. It is very common with females who are in the first stage of pregnancy. Men tend to get more fevers and pain during this time."

"So when you said you had another patient with similar symptoms. Did you mean you knew another man who was pregnant?"

"Yes, a dear friend of mine who is also my patient. And let me tell you, their child and both parents are happy and healthy. Let me show you a photo of them."

The doc took out his phone from his doctor's gown and began flipping though images.

"Ah, this is a nice one." He passed the phone to Akihto. "The one on the right is the 'mother', the man who bore him. And the one of the left who is holding the child is the father."

"They...look so happy."

"Yes, they are. This photograph was taken in the spring when we all went out to watch the cherry blossom. The child was running around so happily that it made me realise that children are a miracle in and of themsleves. But even so when its between two people who love each other as they do. It creates an unbreakable bond."

"I see. I have to agree with that statement. Its a beautiful Image. Thank you for sharing."

"I hope it becomes a reference for your next choices."

"Doctor, I'm still in shock and honestly. I don't know what I'm going to do. But... if there is a child inside of me. If our child is inside of me, then... i want to cherish that child."

"I see. I'm glad to hear that. The child will be fortunate to have parents who love each other."

"Yes..."

"Before you leave Takaba-san, allow me to give you a few things to help you."

"All this?"

"Its a prescription for the pain, a type that won't harm the child. This is a small book about male pregnancy that should come in handy. And finally, I would like to give you a vitamin shot which should help with the morning sickness."

"Thank you doc."

"Its what I do ;)" Leading him to an adjacent room, he had Takaba sit on a chair while he prepped the shot. "This will only take a second."

"Doctor, could I request this to be kept secre-ow!"

"Ah, sorry. I'm usually better at this, but its been awhile. There. all done."

"-Thanks."

"As for your request. I know how difficult this is. That is why were the only ones here. I will most definitly keep this between us."

So that's why I haven't seen anyone.

"I see. Thank you very much doctor Borison."

"Anytime Takaba-san. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any concerns or questions."

"I will do that. Thank you."

"Ah! wait."

"Hmm?"

The doc went back to his office and quickly rushed back.

"This is my card, I wrote my personal cell phone number on the back. That way you can contact me directly without worrrying about someone at the hospital knowing."

"...Thank you."

"Take care Takaba-san."

"You too Doctor, have a good evening."

"Asami-sama, thank you for your time. I will report back once we find the swan's mastermind."

"I look forward to it. Suoh, escort him out."

"Hai."

Suoh escorted the guest out of Sion, leaving Asami and Kirkshima alone.

"Asami-sama, do you think they will be of help in finding the mastermind?"

"I'm not sure. But we can at leat use them as bait."

"I will make the nessessary preperations."

"Before that, contact the guards and see how Akihito's doing? He's not responding to my messages."

"Hai.."

"Asami...the boy disappeared from the condo. The guards only realised half an hour ago and have been searching for him. They got a sighting near the hospital so are headed there now."

"Why does he make our skilled men seem so incompetent... Looks like doubling the guards did nothing."

"What should we do?"

"Tell them to keep looking elsewhere. Let's go to the hospital. He was still looking a bit unwell, I'm worried he got worse again.

"Hai, I'll have Suoh bring the car around."

"And Kei, tell them to inform us right away next time he dissapears."

"Hai."

Takaba took the medicine and made his way towards the hospital's main entrance.

He dug into his jeans pocket for his phone.

Damn. Forgot it at home. Have the guards noticed I left yet? I better get back soon... I wonder how Asami will react to the news. Will he be shocked like me or happy? Asami as a parent...hard to imagine.

As he turned the corner and walked through the hospital's main lobby, Takaba saw Asami enter from the main entrance with a worried expression. It felt like time had stopped, was it because they now had a physical connection between them? Takaba wanted to be wrapped in Asami's arms and warmth. He was being overwhelemd with emotions.

Asami...

The moment Asami noticed Takaba, his expression changed to one of relief as he rushed towards him.

"Why must you always make me worry! Tell me next time you're feeling ill or want to come to the hospital. I"ll come with you. And please stop avoid-"

"Ryu. Calm down. I'm fine. I just came to get a vitamin shot and some pain meds"

"Are you in so much pain you need pain meds?"

"No, its just for a headach I started to get. I just got it in case it gets worse."

Ryu... I want to tell you. but not here, not like this. I want to make it special."

"Ryu, let's go home."

"Ya...let's go home."

Everything changed when he found out he had a child within him. Asami's child.

He spent his days debating between baby names, cute girl ones and strong boy ones. He window shopped online for possible clothes, toys and baby accessories. He would walk into his old room multiple times a day, debating on the colour the walls should be painted, what kind of crib he would buy and where he would place it. When he cooked dinner, he worried about the baby climbing the cuboards or opening the hot oven. During the afternoon when he plugs in his laptop, he ponders about how he can baby proof all the outlets. He spent hours researching how to be a parent. He changed his diet to make sure nothing bad would reach the child within him.

A month later, Takaba woke up restless. He stretched out his arms looking for his partner's warmth only to find a cold bed. Like everyday for the last couple of weeks he got up unsurprised and made his way to the bathroom to take a warm shower. He let the water trikle down on him, slowly warming up his cold body. After his shower, he decided to tackle the chores he's been offputting. Starting with the pile of dishes in the kitchen, he cleaned the floor and counters till they were spotless. Somehow it helped him relax and relieve the loneliness that's been creeping up within him lately.

Having heard his phone vibrate he rushed to pick it up only to be disappointed that it was just a telemarketer. Takaba couldn't remember the last time he had a conversation with Asami.

He finalized his surprise plans over two weeks ago and had no chance to inform Asami about them. It was simple but he knew it would be meaningful. He planned to have a nice cozy date with Asami, starting off by hiking a hill in the early morning to see the sunrise together, then roaming around the city until lunch where they would visit a famous savory crepe place followed by a visit to a gallery, something they both enjoyed. and concluding with a fancy dinner at Asami's favorite place where he would give Asami a card holding their baby's ultrasound picture inside.

Having seen how busy Asami had been this past month,Takaba had changed his plans to only having dinner together. but even that seemed to be impossible to fit into his schedule. So today, he had a new plan. He would prepare their apartment and make a really nice dinner which they would enjoy when Asami got home, no matter how late. Thats when he would give him the prepared letter.

So there he was cleaning the apartment till it was the kitchen was cleaned, he moved on to vaccuming the rooms followed by doing the laundry. Takaba went around the apartment collecting clothes that needed washing. Brought everything to the laundry room and proceeded to seperate the colours.

White, black, black, white, grey, white, red, black, blac-...red?

There in his hands was Asami's shirt with a red stain.

wine? too dark.. paint?...no...this is...blood.

As his thoughts caught up to what he was seeing. He could feel his heart rate rise and feel his body shiver. It wasn't his first time seeing blood on Asami's clothes. But somehow, this time was different.

Asami stood in front of a small office building with his men, they had already taken down two of the swans locations and this was the last one they knew about. Their headquarters.

"Asami, maybe you should stand by this time and have us go in as you're still injured."

"Don't worry Kei, its nothing more than a scratch. Let's storm the place and remind these guys who owns Japan."

"Hai!"

Asami came home at 3:45am. He wanted nothing more than to take a quick shower and sleep next to his dreaming kitten. The last few weeks have been really busy and he greatly missed his lover's body heat.

Upon entering the dark apartment, he immediately drew his pistol. Years of experience made him weary of his surroundings, he could feel the air was different than normal. He entered the living room slowly, checking his surroundings as he swiftly made his way to the bedroom. He hoped his boy was safely in bed.

The moment he heard The sound of a voice, he turned and pointed the pistol at the sitting silhouette on the couch in an instant, his quick reflexes have never let him down. As their eyes met, he could feel the sweat that ran down his back as he barely stopped his finger from pulling the trigger.

"A..kihito..." Asami lowered his gun, glad that he didn't fire. "Akihito, why are you here in the dark? I thought someone broke in."

He walked over to the other side of the room and turned on the light. Akihito sat crouched on the couch holding his shirt tightly to his chest. He didn't move nor speak.

He's scared. I must have frightened home with the gun... What a mistake.

Asami set the gun down on the counter and walked over to his lover whose eyes were glued to the gun.

"Akihito. Sorry for scaring you. Are you okay? Did something happen?" With no response, he slowly wrapped his arms around him and held him in his arms. Waiting for any kind of reaction. "Akihito... please say something, look at me."

Asami sighted a sight of relief when Akihito's eyes faced away from the gun and laid upon him. His eyes checked him from the toes to the head till it reached his eyes. They stayed like that for a few minutes until Takaba broke the silence.

"Are you hurt?"

Hurt? Who? Me? Why is he asking if I'm hurt?

Asami was bewildered. He didn't understand what was happening. Nor how to respond.

"I'm not hurt."

"Liar."

"Akihito... Why are you crying?" Asami brought his hand to his lover's cheeks and wiped the tears away. He didn't understand the reason, but he could see how the worry and sadness in his boys eyes.

What happened Akihito? Why were you sitting here alone in the dark long past midnight? Why are you showing such a pained expression?

"Aki- why are you holding my shirt? Did you miss me? Were you lonely?" He tried to take the shirt but Takaba refused to let go of it. "Aki?"

Then he saw the blood stains and everything fell into place.

"Akihito, where you worried because you thought I got hurt?"

"Show me."

"The blood's not mine. I only got a scratch."

"S-h-o-w m-e"

Seeing the strong willed and defiant eyes of his lover put Asami at ease and knew it was a losing battle.

"All right. Come, I'll show it to you."

They went to the bedroom where Asami took off his shirt and showed the place where the bullet grazed him

"See, it's just a scratch."

Takaba took a step closer and let his fingers go over the scratch. He took adeep breath and released the tension he held for far too long.

"Satisfied?"

"Don't move."

"What-?"

Whining seconds, Takaba returned with the first aid kit. He took out the alcohol and bandages, and proceeded to take care of the small wounds of his lover.

"Take off your pants now."

"Why? Did you want to do a nurse and doc play."

With one look, Asami followed his lovers directions without question. Taking off his pants, every inch of him getting checked for wounds. Takaba went as far as putting Band-Aid on a paper cut he got that morning.

" Are you done? "

"... Yes. "

" Will you tell me what this is about now? It's not the first time I come home with an injury or two and definetly not the first time I have blood on my shirt."

"I know that."

"Then?"

"But... I suddenly got scared. When I saw it, all I could think about was if you were okay? How hurt you were, what were you doing that got you hurt. Did someone like Feilong show up? Were you going to come home tonight? What about next time?Would tomorrow be the last time I see you?" My mind was filled with such thoughts."

Asami didn't know how to respond to Akihito's honest feelings. He had wanted to protect him from such thoughts, to protect his carefree wild self.

"Akihito..."

They laid in bed, holding each other close, feeling each other's warmth. As they closed their eyes and feeling only the comfort they each provided, they fell into a deep and peaceful sleep.

Takaba woke up as the morning light entered his room.

A dream? What a weird dream.

He felt well rested and stretched out his arms in search for a missing warmth. Recognizing the empty side of bed, he woke up and remembered the day before. As the memories of the bloodied shirt come to him, his body began to tense up again.

Asami? Did he come home last night? Is he okay?

He jumped out of bed and rushed around the apartment for any signs of his lover having come home the night prior.

Nothing. I can't tell... No new clothes, no breakfast... Did... No... His office, he must have slept in his office.

Takaba ran back to the room and grabbed his phone. Speed dialing 1.

Asami: "Good morning Akihito."

Takaba: "Asami..."

Hooo, I'm glad he sounds okay.

Takaba: "Ryu, are you okay? You're not hurt?"

Asami: "... What? Your inspection from last night wasn't enough? Don't worry Aki, I'm fine and strong."

Last Night? So... It wasn't a dream...

Takaba: "Asami, are you going to do something dangerous today too? Where are you going to go? When are you coming home?"

Asami: "Akihito. I'm alright, so don't ask about my work. I"ll be home last so go to bed and don't wait up for me."

Takaba: "But I-"

Asami: "Akihito."

Takaba: "Okay...but please come home safely."

Asami:"... I will. Rest well today. Bye Aki."

Takaba: "Bye... Ryu."

"Is everything alright at home Asami-sama."

"I'm not sure Kei. He's sensitive and keeps worrying about things. I've never seen him like that."

"Ryuuichi. Maybe it's time you told him, about yourself and about our work."

"No. Imagine me saying I'm going out to storm into enemy headquarters. He would be even more worried."

"You don't have to tell him that much. And I'm sure he has an idea about some of the things we do."

"That's exactly why I wouldn't be able to sugar coat it. He's smart and intuitive."

"I haven't seen him smile for weeks, telling him wouldn't help."

"The what if you took a day off Ryu? We have that business trip coming up, but you could probably take a day off before it."

"No, delay the trip. I've decided to take Akihito on a short trip after we clean up. He needs to get away and relax a bit."

"That would be a great idea. Would you like me to organise something?"

"No need. I'll do it myself this time."

"Understood, a lover's get away should be done by the lover."

As Asami was about to reply with a smart remark about Kirishima's own love affairs or lack of. Such rushed into the room.

"Asami! Kirishima! We're getting attacked by the remaining swans."

"Damn. To think they were still this organised."

"No. This is perfect. They came to us, saving us the trouble of searching for them. Such. Kirishima. Let's go hunt some swans."

"Hai!"

It's been days since Takaba caught a glimpse of Asami. He get's text messages from him which keep his worries at bay. He knows he comes home from the used shower and eaten dinners but also notices that he no longer leaves any laundry.

Takaba kept doing the housework and simple work he could do from home. He made sure to eat well and take the pain medication only when he really needed it which became less and less as the days went by. Everyday, he found himself lying on Asami's side of the bed as he thought of him.

Asami... Where are you right now? When will you be home? I miss you, Asami.

He felt like he lost the chance to tell Asami about their child. Regretting the fact that he didn't tell him at the hospital.

Asami, hurry home. I want to tell you. To share this miracle with you.

"Asami-sama, here is your new shirt."

"Thanks. Akihito's overly worried about blood stains these days. It's better he doesn't see these."

"Your injuries should heal in another week or so. Will you be avoiding him until then?"

"No. now that the Swan's have finally been cleaned up and the travel plans are done. I should go home and see my lover."

When Akihito heard the door open, he rushed out to see his lover who he missed dearly.

"Asami!"

"I'm home Akihito"

Akihito didn't wait a second before jumping onto Asami and giving him a tight embrace. He felt light and happy for the first time in weeks.

"ngh! Akihito calm down." Asami released himself from the embrace and took a good long look at his lover's face who he didn't see in a while. "I missed you too, Aki."

"ya. But you're here now. Would you like to eat first? Or take a bath? Or... Have me?"

Asami would normally not hesitate to choose but he worried about showing his injuries.

"Let's eat."

"...oh. Okay..."

Akihito's been living with Asami for over five years now. Even without knowing everything about his family or work. He knew almost everything about the man himself. From the way he eats to the way he stands. That's why when he saw Asami walk towards the dining table, he knew something was wrong.

"Asami. When did you get hurt?"

Asami was shocked, His foes and comrades alike except for Kei and Kazumi could never tell Asami had so much a scratch on him if he didn't will it. Yet somehow his lover who is outside of that world always seems to surprise him.

"It's nothing major. I'm okay Akihito's. Now let's eat."

"Why. Why Asami!, can't you at least tell me when you get hurt or what time you'll be back by?"

"Akihito's, I told you I'm fine. There's nothing else to say!"

"Fine?" Akihito's stepped in front of Asami and took his shirt off. Under the shirt showed two gunshot wounds that were bleeding through the bandages. "You call this nothing? If you were shot an inch to the left it could have hit your heart. You would have died!"

"But it didn't. And I'm fine now."

"Is this why you were avoiding me? And why you stopped leaving your Laundry at home!?"

"I just didn't want you to worry!"

"If I can't even worry about you, then what am I supposed to do!? It's not like I know anything else about you."

"There's nothing else you need to know! How many time do I need to tell you."

"Why won't you just tell me the truth? We've been together for years, yet you've told me nothing about yourself, your work or your family.

"Akihito, that's none of your business. Don't try to dig more into it, I'm tired from work and don't need more headaches at home. Why can't you just accept things as they are?"

"But I-" Akihito stopped the words from being uttered, words that would change everything. Facing the love of his life who wore an annoyed expression and avoided him lately was too much to handle.

"I... understand Asami."

As Akihito walked away, he missed the look of sadness that overcame his lover.

That night, while Asami was away on work, Takaba packed his bag and with all the skills he had learned since living with Asami. He decided to escape from the man named Asami Ryuuichi, the underworld lord of Japan.

Asami left the apartment, he didn't know what happened nor why Akihito was so much on edge these days. But he knew it would take time before they could go back to how they were.

He had been pushing back the business trip to stay by Akihito's side. But after their fight, he decided it would be best to give him some space. He hoped two weeks would be enough time for his lover to cool down. They would then go on their vacation together and pat patch things up, or so he thought.

A decision he would forever regret.

Asami returned two weeks later to an empty apartment with only a letter left on the kitchen counter. A letter addressed to him.

Dear Asami,

Please don't look for me.

This may come as a sudden thing to you but I have been thinking about it for a while now. Sometimes love isn't a good enough reason to stay together. Sometimes that love will be eternal if we are apart.

I know how much you love me and that all the actions you take are to protect me. But I can't go on anymore. Being by your side only superficially, not knowing anything about what you do, your family or childhood. Your secrets became a wall that seperated us. I know you do it to protect me from your world. But for me, that became a veil that hid you away.

I wanted to stand next to you in either of our worlds. I wanted to be needed by you. I wanted to understand you. But thinking about the future that's in front of us... I don't see how it would be possible for all of us to be happy together.

I don't want you to blame yourself. I'm not strong enough to adventure down this path while holding on to you. I didn't take the step forward to stay by your side and instead...I ran away from you. I will probably come to regret not confronting you about it. But now that I've made the choice, I will walk down this path without turning back.

Good Bye Asami, I'm sorry.

I love you

Takaba Akihito

15 years ago...

"Akihito, I keep thinking of you these days. its been 2 years, but the regret hasn't left me for a day. Where are you? My beautiful kitten?"

"Asami-sama, we have visitors."

"Let them in."

"What brings Akihito's friends to Sion?"

"Asami-San, we would like to work for you."

"Ho... Why is that?"

"In these last two years, we have heard nothing after the first letter Akihito left in our mail box. Not to us nor to his own family."

"He dissapeared overnight and honestly, we don't have a chance of finding him."

"If anyone has a chance. Its you Asami."

Asami hesitated. He was someone who could find anyone, anywhere, at anytime. Yet Takaba who wasn't apart of the underword managed to slip through his fingers in one night. Honestly, after two long years of searching and coming up empty. Asami didn't have the confidence of finding his lover. But he knew, he wouldn't give up.

Keeping his only friends under my watch and helping wouldn't be a bad idea.

"Very well Takato, Kou. You can join the company. I expect you to work hard."

"We will. we do have one request however. I know you have an underground business as well as Sion, so..."

"What Takato is trying to say is that we have no interest in working for your side business. please let us work in your clean company."

"No worries. I have no need for two newbies in that field. Kirishima will direct you to your new posts that suit your expertise."

"Don't worry Takato-san, Kou-san. As Akihito's friends, we won't let you get harmed."

"I see."

"Thanks?"

"Now, follow me. I will have you meet your new team today and then you can start tomorrow."

"Hai"

1 month ago...

"Father! Father! Please hold on, please don't leave me!"

In a small hospital in Calgary, Canada. A father lied in a bed looking through the window to the sky beyond, admiring the beauty of the sunset that reminded him of a past love.

"I'm sorry Ryuuta."

"For what father?"

The father turned to his son who returned his gaze with worry, love and compassion.

"For leaving you alone."

"Father! please don't say that! maybe the doctors are wrong, maybe-...father, wh-why are you crying? Why are you making me cry..."

The son embraced his father, knowing and denying that it would be their last.

"My son, my beautiful son Ryuuta. Never forget that I love you."

"I won't, I won't ever forget!"

"Ryuuta..."

Akihito looked at his son for what could be the very last time. The words he wanted to say were lost in his throat, he was scared. Scared that these last 17 years would have been in vain. He did everything he could to protect his son. To raise him in the light and with love. As he looked on, his vision slowly faded away. He could still hear his son's cry, he wished for nothing more than to hold him in his arms.

"Father! What's wrong? Father!? Nooo! Father, you can't leave me...please...please don't leave me alone."

Ryuuta, my dear son, you are not alone.

In his last moment, Akihito's mind was flooded with memories of his time with Asami. Memories of getting lost in his beautiful golden eyes. Of ruffling his hair has they laid in bed. Of being protected and held close. Of the laughter that filled their home.

In a low voice filled with longing, the name he had been holding back for 17 years escaped his lips.

"Asami-"

Akihito closed his eyes, no longer having the strength to keep them open. As the last of his energy depleted from his body, a final thought rang through his soul.

Asami, I miss you. My one and only love, I will wait for you, at the bottom of the abyss.

"Fa-father?"

The tears the boy cried that night, were tears he would never forget, it embodied everything he had been through with his father in the last 17 years, the good and the bad.

When his tears slowed to a gentle stream, he looked upon his father's face for the last time. His eyes were closed, he looked peaceful and left with a small smile as if he was dreaming of the good memories he held.

When going through his fathers things, he found an old photo of a child with what seemed to be his parents behidn him.

Father? From when he was a child. I resemble him a lot. Does that mean these two are my...grandparents... They look so happy.

Father, You left to soon... I wanted to continue travelling the world with you. I wanted you to tell me stories of your past. I wanted become a photographer and work along side you. I wanted you to be there on my wedding day... I should have taken more photographs of you. I should have told you I loved you more often. I-I should have learnt more from you...

He held the photo to his chest that felt like it was crushing under the pain of loss. Taking a few minutes to compose himself. He took another look at the photograph that held his father's smile.

What a great photograph.

The boy turned the photo over and found one name written on the back

Takaba Akihito

Takaba Akihito...is that my grand-father's name? But why was his name on the back? Isn't usually the childs?

Suddenly the boy had a thought. He rushed to the living room where he had left his laptop and begun investigating the name Takaba Akihito in Japanese websites.

How long ago should I search for? 17 years?longuer? Let's start with 20 years.

Nothing, older?

oh. 22 years ago...

Takaba Akihito seen with actress Momohara Ai.

Its...not grandfather. its father. He's so...young. and with an actress...

But, father's name is Kabato kaihito...isn't it?

Ka-ba-ta Kai-hi-to

Ta-ka-ba A-ki-hi-to

...ah... its an anagramme...

So my name isn't Kabata Ryuuta but Takaba Ryuuta... That's good. Always hated our last name... But, why father?

Who were you running away from yet waited for?

Asami...

Who is this Asami?

Web Search: Asami in Japan.

Search result: Famous female japanese name.

Female? Mother...

It has to be. That expression, who else would he call out with his last breath.

Mother is probably still in Japan. Since you avoided it till death father.

But where would I start...

oh.

Web search: Actress Momohara Ai with Takaba Akihito photographer.

Search Result: Photographer Mitarai from Headline Magazine Inc. and Momohara Ai's stalker captured in handcuffs. Phographer Takaba Akihito from Headline Magazine Inc. Phone number: xxx - xxx - xxxx

Mitarai...Headline Magazine and father's old phone number?

I guess I'll start there.

Present...

Asami knew, after seventeen years of searching. there was a high chance the man named Takaba Akihito was no longuer in this world. After exhausting all possibilities and resources, he had given up the stalled search but never gave up on the hope that someday, somewhere they would meet again. Even if it was in their last moment.

But now, reality hit him hard in the form of his ex-lover's own son who witnessed his end.

But for him to have been alive for those 17 years and left only a month ago. Asami felt like he had just missed him. As if all he needed to do was reach out and grab him.

Akihito...

As the truth left the boys mouth. Memories of the past filled him as the pain, the worry, the regret, the loss, the excitement, the happiness and the sadness became a blur.

End of Chapter