1. Sorry for any cultural inaccuracies, I did a bit of mixing to have the parts I wanted work.

2. Yuu just wants to be loved.

3. Kinchaku = a small drawstring bag carried with kimonos. Amazake = a warm, sweet thick drink that's stirred while you drink it. Hatsumode = First shrine visit of the new year.


Chapter 3: Love Me

Yuuichirou looks at the boy curled up in his lap fondly. It's a mild day for December and sunny, but still chilly enough for Mikaela to want to cuddle up close. But then again, when is he ever not close. Since they've started dating he's found out that Mika is a closet cuddler, a glutton for attention, and maybe a bit clingy too.

He supposes Mika did give him a warning back when they agreed to date, but he was too happy that he was getting what he wanted to pay Mika's warning any mind, not that it would have changed his mind anyway. Yuu doesn't mind though, especially times like now, sitting here with Mikaela slowly intertwining their fingers. He had a feeling Mika was only pretending to be asleep.

He brushes back Mika's bangs, "I know you're awake, you might as well get up." He receives no response, "Miiika," he teases tickling his chin. Mikaela swats his hand away before opening radiant blue eyes to look up at him, he reaches his hand up towards him and Yuu knows exactly what he wants. He's happy to comply, bending down to give Mika a kiss.

Yuu is still surprised sometimes at how much warmer and sweeter Mikaela is now, with him at least. He knew Mika wasn't as cold as he acted. He had told Yuu that he was demanding, but if by demanding he meant he wanted lots of affection then Yuu can definitely deal with that.

Mikaela loves affection and not a time goes by when they're together that they don't exchange at least a few gentle touches, hand holding most of all. Though for all their closeness, Yuu has to wonder how Mika truly feels about him. He loves Mikaela and would love to be with all the time, but Mika has not once said anything about his feelings towards Yuu.

Even though Yuuichirou knows Mika cares about him, still, some part of him can't help feeling that Mikaela is still holding part of himself back and Yuu hates it. He wants Mikaela to be completely his.

"Yuu-chan?"

Mika's voice pulls him from his inner thoughts, "Yeah?"

"What's wrong? You look upset."

He shakes head, "Nothing, just thinking about some stuff."

"Like?"

"It's not important," he sits Mika up and stands up. He reaches down a hand, "Let's go. We gotta get back to class."

Mika allows himself to be pulled up, however, he's still a little worried. Yuu has seemed a bit distant lately, nothing too bad, but he seems to be lost in his thoughts more and more when they're together and Mika doesn't have a clue what's going through his mind. Yuu still seems fine with returning his affection, but Mika's starting to get nervous.

Yuuichirou places a kiss on his lips, "I'll see you after school," and runs off to his class leaving Mika with no chance to ask him and no choice but to go in his own class.

Yuu is anxious, he can't wait for Winter Break to start. He hasn't been able to see Mika much these past few weeks with finals and the end of the semester wrapping up, he's been hella busy. But, finally it'll be Winter Break and they can be together again like summer. Turns out spending that much time together is a lot harder to do during the school year and especially when he's balancing Mika and his friends also.

This is probably more his hormones talking, but he can also finally touch Mika again. It's been forever since they've had time together and Yuu has been getting a bit….antsy. But fortunately, the day's about to end, break's going to start, and he'll have nothing but free time.

The minute the bell rings, Yuuichirou is out of his seat, out the door and making his way to Mika's class. He's disappointed to find he wasn't fast enough and makes his way to the front of the building. He sees his friends beckoning to him, he nods making his way over.

"Winter Break, Yuu!" Shinoa yells throwing her arm around him. "We made it through another semester!"

"Tell me about it."

"So, what's the plan? We've gotta make it count."

"You already know what his plan is," Kimizuki answers.

"Huh?"

"He's gonna be attached at the hip to Mikaela all break. That's why he left class so fast."

"Yuu wouldn't do that. He already ditched us most of summer," Mistuba interrupts.

Yuu has to fight down the guilty feeling that arises when they all turn to look at him because that's exactly how he planned to spend the break. "Not the whole break," he mutters.

"Yuu," Mistuba shakes him. "Stop forgetting you have friends who want to spend time with you too."

"I know that. It's just we haven't really spent time together in a while and I….miss him."

"And what about us?"

"I see you guys every day."

"You see him too!"

"Now Mitsuba," Shinoa says with a sly smile, "I think there's something Yuu is trying to say here."

"Huh?"

"Mikaela can give him something the rest of us can't," she continues. "That's really what he's after."

"What's that Shinoa" Yoichi questions innocently.

"Why sex of course!"

"O-oh."

"That's not it all," Yuu protests even though he was just thinking about touching Mikaela earlier.

Shinoa ignores him, "Haven't you noticed Yuu's been a little agitated lately? He's sexually frustrated and only Mikaela can help him."

"I don't want to hear this."

"I don't either!" Yuu agrees with Kimizuki for once, "Shut up!"

Shinoa smirks, "Why just in class the other day when Yuu fell asleep, me and Mitsuba distinctly heard him moaning Mika's name."

"I did not!"

"What was it he said Mitsuba?"

"Hmm, I think it was something about being….tight."

"Whoa!" Yuu explodes turning on Shinoa and shoving her away, "That never happened, you're making that up!"

"Am I? We've all noticed you've been agitated lately, the reason was fairly obvious."

"It was just finals," Yuu emphasizes.

"Uh huh."

"Save your wet dreams for home Yuu not in public."

Yuu rounds on Kimizuki, "You shut up! You're not even in my class, you don't know shit!"

"I know they're right, you're obvious as hell."

Before Yuu can retort, Shinoa turns him in the other direction, "Unfortunately, it looks like you'll have to wait a while to get that sexual release you so desperately crave, looks like Mika's friends have claimed him for the day." Yuu follows Shinoa's gaze to see Mika walking with Lacus and Rene. "Looks like you're too late."

Yuuichirou shrugs her arm off and runs after them, ignoring his friend's calls. "Mika!" Mika turns and smiles at Yuu when he sees him approaching. "Hey, it's finally Winter Break! Aren't you excited?"

"Duh, he is," Lacus answers. "Why do you think we're leaving so fast?"

"I was asking Mika." Yuu is still kind of annoyed at Shinoa and Lacus isn't helping. He can really get under Yuu's skin sometimes and he knows it. "You don't know what he's thinking."

"Of course I do, we're his best friends," Lacus says throwing an arm around Mika's shoulders. "We understand him, it's why we get along so well." Mikaela rolls his eyes, but smiles at Lacus. Yuuichirou does not like that, at all, nor does he like the way it makes him feel. Mika is the clingy one, so the rush of jealousy and animosity towards Lacus he feels catches him off guard.

"Whatever, come on, Mika," Yuu reaches for him, but Lacus pulls him out of reach.

"Ah ah ah, Mika is hanging out with us today," he gives Yuu a smirk over Mika's shoulder. Lacus is provoking him, he knows it, he can tell by the gleam in his eye. He's being intentionally touchy to get a rise of Yuu, unfortunately it's working.

Yuu forces down his annoyance, "That's cool, we have all of Winter Break to hang out." Yuu doesn't miss the flash of guilt on Mikaela's face. "….What is it?"

"Well….Krul has an overseas business transaction and she wants me with her for Christmas…"

"When?"

"I'm leaving the day after tomorrow and I'll be back a few days after Christmas."

"Mika! That's half the break!"

"I know, I'm sorry."

"You couldn't tell me sooner?"

"I meant to…I just never had the chance." Yuu glares because they both know he had plenty of chances, likely he knew Yuu was going to be annoyed and didn't want to bring it up. "But it's fine," he continues quickly. "We'll be together after I get back and come over tomorrow and I'll give you your Christmas present."

"Your virginity?" Yuu deadpans.

"What? No. Be serious."

"I am."

"Aaaanyway, just come over tomorrow. Maybe 7?"

"Fine."

"Okay, enough of this love fest, let's go, Mika. We'll see you next semester Yuuichirou." Mika waves before Lacus drags him away, Yuu can't bring himself to return it. He misses him more already.

"Do you like him even half as much as he likes you?" Rene asks curiously when they're far enough away.

"Of course I like him, he's my boyfriend."

"Love him?"

Mika hesitates, "What's that matter?"

"It just seems as if he likes you a lot more than you like him."

"No, it's not like that. Yuu knows I care about him and he understands that I don't talk about my feelings."

"That's not what it looked like."

"Huh?"

"Looked more like he's possessive because he thinks you're not as invested as he is." Mikaela shakes his head. "You haven't noticed? His body language says it all."

"Even I've noticed," Lacus interjects.

"Of course you've noticed, you play on his insecurities and make it worse."

"You're both wrong, we're fine." And if there's a little feeling in the back of his head saying maybe Lacus and Rene are right, well it's easy enough to ignore.

~~~~~
Yuu can't believe Mika waited until two days before to tell him he was going to be gone half the break. They never talked about it, but he assumed Mika wanted to spend time together just as much as he wanted to. But, that was like dropping a bomb on something he'd been looking forward to for weeks, he seriously has no clue what Mikaela is thinking sometimes.

Though now, the uncertainty is really starting to worry him. But since they'll be together today anyway, he's sure he can find a time to subtly bring it up, he always has to tread carefully on the subject of feelings with Mikaela.

He knocks on the door and Mika greets him as usual with a tight hug that he returns in earnest. "You made it!"

"Like I'd miss one of the few times we'll actually get to be together." Mika gets that guilty look again before apologizing and heading into the living room where he'd been watching Netflix. He pats the seat next to him and hands Yuu his gift once he's seated. Yuu opens the bag to pull out a soft sky blue blanket. Yuu rubs it against face, it's so fluffy. "Thanks Mika, this is great."

"You're welcome, I know blue's your favorite color and," Mika smirks, "it's to keep you warm so you don't go jumping into bed with strangers for warmth."

Yuu pauses, "…That's not funny."

"I'm just looking out for your safety, it may not end so well next time," Mika grins at him.

Yuu opens his mouth to protest, before settling into a smirk himself, "That's fine, I'm sure you'll love your present too then." Mika is instantly wary and unwraps the box with some trepidation, but it seems he worried for nothing, his gift turns out to be fairly innocuous. It turns out to be a pretty crimson scarf. Mika smiles at Yuu, noting his smirk with confusion. "It's for your neck."

"Uh…obviously?"

"So you don't have to wear makeup next time."

"Huh?"

Yuu raises his eyebrows and gives Mika a pointed look, "It'll come in handy so I don't have to hide it the next time I mark you up." Mika gives him a flat look and throws the bag at him which Yuu catches with a laugh.

"Who said there would even be a next time?"

"Me!" Yuu shouts before tackling Mika to the couch and pinning him down. Mika retaliates by trying to use his whole body to throw Yuu off, but Yuu's hands are at his side in a flash tickling him into submission. Eventually Mika pleads defeat and they end up under Yuu's blanket asleep, Yuu drooling on Mika's chest after hours of Netflix.

And if at some point Yuu does end up getting his way, neither of would them would be surprised. But, Mika does end up having to wear the scarf for the next few days.

~~~~~
"Yuu! Stop sulking! We're supposed to be enjoying Winter Break, but we can't with you permanently pouting like that."

"I can't help it, Mitsuba! I thought Mika would be with me most of the break."

"Well, he's not and we are. You guys are too attached anyway, this is good for you."

"Absence makes the heart grow fonder," Yoichi chimes in.

Yuu settles back into his seat and watches Kimizuki set up the board games while Shinoa brings in snacks. It's been a long time since they've had game night, school keeps them all pretty busy, it's nice to unwind like this, even if Mika isn't here.

Yoichi passes him a bowl of popcorn and the dice, let the games begin. They argue and fight their way through the next few hours of games. They're all competitive and constantly challenging each other's moves, but somehow Shinoa manages to win most of the rounds. Everyone accuses her of cheating, but no one can figure out exactly how in order to call her on it.

It's getting close to midnight when they decide to call it a night and start getting ready for bed. "That's a nice blanket," Yoichi comments as Yuu's settling down. "Is it new?"

"Thanks," Yuu grins, "It was my present from Mika."

"How sweet," Kimizuki mutters only to receive a pillow to the face.

"Speaking of Mika," Shinoa interjects. "You two have been dating for a while now."

"Yeah?"

"So, isn't it about time we all really met him."

"What do you mean? You've all met him."

"No, we've seen him passing and we know each other by our relationship to you, but we've never actually been introduced or hung out altogether."

"I don't know…"

"She's right, Yuu," Mitsuba adds, "if you guys are a done deal, then it's about time we all got to know each other, you can't keep balancing up like this forever."

"Hey, invite him to New Year's Eve with us!" Yuu looks at Shinoa skeptically. "It'll be fine, it's going to be a few hours at most, just enough time for us to hang out without it getting too awkward."

"Maybe…"

"No, do it! If you don't, we'll meet him on our own terms without you around."

"Fine, fine. I'll ask him when he gets back home."

"Good."

Yuuichirou doesn't know how this is gonna go, but Shinoa does have a point, it is about time they all got to know each other because these are his friends and he doesn't plan on letting Mikaela go anytime soon either.

~~~~~
Mikaela doesn't even have to guess to know who's climbing into his bed. He does have to wonder what Yuu is doing up this early though. He can feel Yuu wrapping arms around his waist and squirming to get comfortable. Mikaela wonders how long he has to lay here in peace because he knows Yuu won't lie here patiently for long.

Five minutes later he has his answer. He hears Yuu whisper into his ear, "Are you awake, Mika? We need to talk." He feels Yuu kiss behind his ear and turns to face him, "You're finally back, I missed you."

"And that's the reason you're up so early?"

"Yep," Yuu nods leaning over for another kiss. "I couldn't wait to see you again."

Mikaela sits up shoving the covers back, "I missed you too," he replies hugging Yuu tightly and really that's all the invitation Yuu needs.

Yuuichirou pushes Mikaela back down on the bed and climbs on top of him straddling his thighs. He smiles down at him before leaning down to initiate a kiss. Yuu parts his lips to deepen the kiss and hears Mikaela murmur, "This isn't talking."

"We'll talk later," he responds sliding his tongue past Mikaela's lips. He feels Mika smile before he wraps his arms around Yuu's neck pulling him closer and fighting Yuu for dominance in the kiss. Yuu grins and readily accepts the challenge angling his head for better access.

While Mika is distracted, Yuu brings his hand to Mika's waist stroking the bare skin before quickly slipping his hand first past the waistband of his pajama bottoms then his briefs to wrap around Mika's member. His brief gasp the only pause in the kiss. It's still soft, unlike Yuu's own which is quickly becoming uncomfortable with being restrained, but that can be fixed easily enough.

A few quick strokes and he can already feel Mika's body responding. Of course he follows by pressing his thighs together tightly, trapping Yuu's hand. Yuuichirou inwardly sighs, even after all this time Mika is still shy. Although he really has nothing to be shy about. He's gorgeous, lean, lithe, and soft in all the right places. He uses his hand and one of his knees to pry Mika's thighs apart and keep them open no matter how much he squirms and whines in protest.

Yuuichirou breaks Mika's hold on his neck and pulls away from the kiss. He gives a cheeky grin in response to Mika's confused look before pulling down the other's bottoms and briefs in one quick movement exposing Mika to the air and his waiting gaze. Mikaela renews his squirming to close his legs full force, but Yuu's knees are keeping them spread.

He watches Mika's face heat up red as he takes hold of his member again giving it a few slow strokes to see Mika's reaction. He loves touching Mika like this. "Yuu…."

"Hmm?"

"What are you doing," his voice sounds strained.

"What's it look like," he questions letting go and adjusting his position briefly to slip Mikaela's clothes the rest of the way off and drop them on the floor. Perfect, now he has an unhindered view of Mika, legs spread, face flushed, skin pale and so easily bruised. Yuu loves this view. His dick likes it too, he'll have to take it out soon.

"Yuu-chan, you can't- ah! Krul's….ngh….downstairs," Miku manages to get out.

"Guess you'll just have to be quiet, won't you?"

Mikaela tries to move Yuu's hand away, but he just tightens his grip causing Mika to moan. "You know I can't."

"Yeah," Yuu smirks, "I know."

Mikaela can't hold back his strangled gasp or keep his hips from thrusting upwards when Yuu pushes a nail gently into the slit at the head of his member. "Yuu-chan! I can't!" Mika protests struggling to sit up.

"It's okay Mika," Yuu leans forward and kisses him. "Krul's gone, she was leaving when I got here."

"Y-you're sure?" Yuu pushes his nail in a bit deeper and Mika gives a choked cry, his hands fisting in the sheets.

"I'm sure."

Mikaela doesn't resist when Yuu reaches forward and pushes him back down against the bed. He knows Yuu enjoys watching him come undone, but he can't figure out why. It seems like anytime they do something like this, Yuu makes it his goal to see how far he can push Mika.

Mikaela actually feels a mild sense of relief when Yuu lets go of him. He watches Yuu remove his pants followed by his boxers, grabbing hold of himself and stroking as he watches Mikaela's eyes flicker between his hands and his face. Yuu is looking at him far too intensely and he kind of wants to hide again.

Yuu leans forward on top of him and presses his hips into Mikaela's grinding down. Yuu moves slowly against Mika increasing the friction without breaking eye contact. He increases his pace when he feels Mika pushing back against him. He really does love touching Mika. He knows when they have sex, it'll be great. But, for someone who loves cuddling and affection so much, Mika is surprisingly hesitant about full penetration. Yuuichirou thinks he's just a bit nervous, but he'll manage to loosen him up.

Mikaela's legs wrap around him as Yuu's thrusting increases, "Oh now you want to open your legs," Yuu gasps out. Mika pulls him down into a kiss in response taking control and exploring Yuu's mouth.

Yuu slides his hand between them wrapping it around both their members using the precum leaking out as lubrication to slick their lengths. Yuu feels Mika's legs squeeze tighter as he begins stroking them together squirming to get more friction.

It's been so long and he's close now, he can tell Mika is too by how tight his legs are squeezing and the death grip he has on Yuu. Yuu grinds now harder on Mika, increasing his stroking, he hears Mika cry out one second and the next he's overcome by pleasure. He comes to with his hand and their stomachs covered in the sticky mess, Mika breathing heavily with his eyes shut below him.

Yuuichirou wipes his hand on the sheets and collapses on top of Mika in a sweaty heap snuggling and resting his head under Mika's chin. Mikaela wraps his arms around Yuu feeling him get heavier as Yuu relaxes further. Mika's not surprised, Yuu was up far earlier than he's used to. He's already falling asleep yet he claims he came here to talk. "Hey Yuu-chan, did you want to see me or was that your hormones talking? It's kind of hard to tell when you climb in my bed, get off, and fall asleep."

Yuu cuddles closer, "Both. All of me wanted you," he answers with a yawn. "But, shh, we have time, let me sleep first." Mika sighs, but lets him sleep before he feels Yuu abruptly tense up. "Wait, I have to tell you before I forget. My friends want to meet you, like actually spend time together. They say it's been long enough and since we're dating, that you guys should know each other."

Mika makes a face that Yuu can't see, "If I absolutely have to. What did you have in mind?"

"Well….Shinoa was thinking we could all go to the New Year's festival together and then just you and me can go to Hatsumode. It wouldn't be all day with them, just a few hours."

"You promise?"

"Yep, just play nice for a few hours. It'll be fun," Yuu sleepily mumbles.

Mika nods before getting himself more comfortable, it doesn't look like Yuu is moving anytime soon.

~~~~~
Mikaela climbs in Yuu's car and buckles his seatbelt. "You ready?" Yuu questions him with a grin.

"Not even remotely, but I'll do it for you."

"Thanks," Yuu gives his hand a squeeze, "let's go then!"

They arrive at the festival and the others are already there waiting for them. Yuu drags Mika over to his waiting friends and introductions are made. So far, so good. Mika knows Yuu's friend Shinoa is kind of a loud mouth, so he assumes she's making an effort because she's not spouting weird shit yet. However conversation is a bit stilted and forced, and Mika finds himself wishing they'd just stop trying, especially with Yuu looking more worried by the minute.

"Uh, Mikaela, what would you like to eat first?"

Mikaela looks over at the brown haired boy, he's pretty sure his name is Yoichi, he's one of Yuu's quieter friends and seems more easily dealt with. "I like yakisoba."

"Oh okay, well that's near the udon. You can come with me to get some if you want…" Yoichi trails off.

Mika nods, letting go of Yuu's hand and standing, anything to get away from the stilted atmosphere of the group. He speed walks off leaving Yoichi to follow. He glances over when Yoichi catches up to him, "Sorry, I just couldn't take the forced conversation anymore."

"Yeah, it was getting pretty bad. But, well, Yuu says you're not a people person, but you're really important to him, so none of us really knew how to act."

"Oh…I'm not, so um thanks for trying."

"It's no problem. We all did really want to get to know you better. Yuu is our friend, so that automatically makes you part of our circle, if you want to be."

Mikaela's not really sure what to make of that, he was just coming along to placate Yuu, he wasn't expecting Yoichi's honesty or that they might actually want him to hang around more. He's not sure how he feels about opening himself up to that many people, especially when he doesn't really know their intentions.

However, he pushes the thought aside in favor of seeking out a food stand. He buys his yakisoba while Yoichi buys his udon and when Yoichi is about to head back to the others, Mika mildly suggests that maybe he would be more comfortable if they ate over here and delayed going back to the others for a little. Yoichi is only too happy to oblige, he says he also wouldn't mind being away from the tense atmosphere a bit longer.

They end up at a spot not too far from the food stands and it's so much easier to talk one on one that they end up staying there longer than initially planned, getting takoyaki and mochi when they've finished their initial dishes. If all Yuu's friends were as easy going as Yoichi, it would be so much easier, as it is though, he's pretty content to sit here and get to know Yoichi. Yuu will be also be pleased that he's actually making an effort, so Mika thinks it's a win win situation.

~~~~~
"Where are they?" Yuu questions in agitation, "they've been gone forever."

"I dunno, Yuu. Maybe he decided Yoichi was better and they ran off into the sunset together."

"Shut up Shinoa. They probably just got lost." Yuu stands up, "I'm gonna go look for them."

"Wait, hold on. We'll come too, it won't help if you get lost too."

Yuu glowers as he impatiently waits for them to gather their things, Shinoa's offhand comment hit a little too close to home for Yuu's liking, even if she was just joking. When they finally set off, it doesn't take long at all to find them and they're not lost at all. In fact, they seem completely at ease as if everyone wasn't waiting for them.

While everyone was back at the blanket, they'd just found somewhere else to sit and relax. Yuu can't help the slice of jealousy that cuts through him as he watches Yoichi and Mika chatting in their own little bubble, a bubble that Mika used to only share with him. Guess he wasn't as special as he thought.

Shinoa sidles up to him, "Wow, Yuu, I was joking, but maybe I was right," she laughs. "You two are usually attached at the hip, but now he's with Yoichi." She nudges his hip, "Better be careful, you might lose him, he seems to like Yoichi. But, then again, who could ever resist that innocent charm."

Yuu is not amused. He walks over to them and Mika looks up at him with a smile, but Yuu's not having any of it, "Nice of you guys to ditch us."

"We didn't ditch you guys. It was really tense over there and Mikaela wanted to relax a bit, so we sat over here, guess we lost track of time." He flashes a smile over at Mika, that Yuu doesn't miss, but he can't really say anything because he knows Yoichi means nothing by it.

"Well now that we've found our rogue party members, can we please go find a good spot to watch the fireworks? I've been waiting for this all month."

"Alright Micchan. Calm down, let's go find a spot up close and I'll be here to hold your hand the entire time in case you get scared."

"I'm not scared of fireworks, Shinoa."

"Come on guys, we've gotta get closer so I can comfort Micchan." Mitsuba rolls her eyes in annoyance, Shinoa never listens, but she is good at getting what she wants, Mitsuba thinks following after her.

Mika goes to grab Yuu's hand, but to his surprise, Yuu has already turned away and is walking with Kimizuki. What's with that? He stands up and follows after with Yoichi. Even after they've picked a new spot, Yuu refuses to look at him, answering any questions with monosyllables. Shinoa teases him about it, "Trouble in paradise?" But, Yuu just shrugs and looks away.

Mika is so confused, he did exactly what Yuu wanted, he came and met his friends. He can't be that upset that they lost track of time, can he? Maybe….it's something else. When Yuu announces he's going to get something to drink, Mika volunteers to go with him despite Yuu telling him to stay.

They're heading back when Mika breaks the silence and pulls him aside, "What's wrong with you? You've been acting weird."

"There's nothing wrong with me."

"You won't even look at me."

"Maybe, I don't want to."

Mika is taken aback, he's not entirely surprised that Yuu is turning against him, but it still hurts. Although, he should be used to people leaving by now. "Why," he questions softly.

"What do you mean why? Does it even matter? You probably don't even like me!"

"Why would you say that," Mika asks quietly.

"You have never once said it. Oh yeah, you've been too busy sneaking away with Yoichi!"

Mikaela looks up at him with tears in his eyes, "That's not true and you know it."

Yuu huffs and turns away, "I think Yoichi is looking for you."

"Yuu-"

"Better hurry or we'll miss the fireworks."

Mika watches Yuu walk away, desperately trying and failing to stop crying. He can't go back over there and pretend everything is still normal. The way the tears won't stop falling, he couldn't even if he wanted to. Mikaela turns in the opposite direction, he'll take the bus home.

Later that night, under his covers with red swollen eyes, he receives many calls and texts from Yuu apparently now apologetic and worried if he made it home safely. Other than telling him yes, he can't be bothered to respond, what's it matter? They're probably through now anyway. People always leave.

~~~~~
"Okay Mika, spill it. What's the matter? You've been odd the past two days."

Mika looks up from his position curled up in the corner of the couch with a blanket, "Nothing, it's just warm under here."

"I'm not talking about the blanket Mika. I assume it has something to do with Yuuichirou?" Krul continues when he doesn't respond, "What did you do this time?"

"Me?! Why did I have to do something? Why not him!"

"Because he likes you too much to do something that'll keep you away."

"Well, you're wrong. He broke up with me?"

"Are you sure about that?"

"Positive."

"So, what really happened?"

"I didn't do anything wrong."

"I didn't say you did, but it's already not looking good for you."

Mika takes a breath, "His friends thought it was finally time for us all to meet and hang out after months of Yuu and I dating. So, I went with them to the New Year's Eve Festival and cooperated just like he wanted, there was even one guy, Yoichi, who was kind of okay, so I spent a lot of time with him, we got along well. But, then half way through, Yuu-chan started acting weird and when I called him on it, he went off on me." Mika's voice gets quiet, "He said I probably didn't even actually like him and that I should just go back over there with Yoichi…."

"Mika," Krul sighs, "It doesn't sound like Yuu broke up with you, it sounds like Yuu was jealous and he let it get the best of him."

"Jealous of what?"

"Probably of the time you were spending with Yoichi. It likely made him question if you actually liked him or if you were just with him because it was comfortable and he was hurt."

"I wouldn't do that."

"Mika, have you ever told Yuuichirou that how you feel about him?"

"No, but he should know."

"How? You're not the most open person and he's probably been worried about it for a while. Seeing you with this Yoichi probably just pushed everything to the surface and his insecurity came out."

"Oh."

"Mika, Yuu likes you a lot, it's clear with how much he always wants to be near you. This separation is probably killing him. Maybe he's worried that you don't feel the same way as him. I know you do and you do also, you're going to have to stop holding back and tell him straight out. That's the only way this will work and no matter how you act, it's clearly something you want."

Mika looks away. He had noticed a subtle change in Yuu before, he supposes he's just been in denial because he didn't want to do anything about it. It seems Lacus and Rene were right and by ignoring it, he's just been hurting Yuu worse. If he really doesn't want Yuu to leave him, he'll have to take responsibility and fix this.

~~~~~
Yuuichirou can't believe what he said to Mikaela, what was he thinking? Well really he wasn't thinking, he was too jealous and hurt to think clearly. Mika only came because Yuu wanted him too and how does he react? With jealously and anger. But, at that moment, he just couldn't help it, seeing them together like that made him question everything.

Did Mika really like him? Did he just want a companion? Was Yuu so easily replaced with anyone he got along with? Honestly, that was just the tipping point, the insecurity had been simmering under the surface for a while now. He thought he could do a relationship without knowing exactly where Mikaela stood, but it turns out that was a lot easier said than done.

He said he understood how Mika was when they started dating, so what can he even say to make it right? He can't say he's okay with it because clearly he's not, not that he's really had a chance, Mikaela hasn't texted him in two days and Yuu's too nervous to reach back out himself. He buries his head in the couch and groans, which almost makes him miss the sound of an incoming text.

He grabs his phone and is pleasantly surprised to see a text from Mikaela asking if they're still on for Hatsumode, he'd thought that was definitely off. Maybe it means Mika has forgiven him for being an ass. In any case, he doesn't have time to dwell on it, they're supposed to meet in an hour.

Yuu searches through his closest for his kimono that he no longer thought he would need. He doesn't wear it much, but since it's a special occasion and they're going to a shrine, it's probably the best option. Besides, Mika will likely be wearing one also. He pulls the necessary pieces out and quickly begins to dress, they're so complicated and too many layers, but at least he'll be warm. Yuu finishes with tying his obi and shakes out his sleeves, glancing in the mirror to make sure everything's fine.

His kimono is a forest green with black stitching, a little brighter than the more traditional colors, but hey times change. Yuuichirou grabs the matching black kinchaku for his cell phone and wallet before hurrying downstairs. He's halfway out the door when Guren calls him, he turns to see Guren and Shinya in grey and dark blue kimonos, figures they would match, probably Shinya's idea.

"I thought you weren't going to Hatsumode anymore," Guren questions.

"I thought I wasn't, but Mika texted, so I guess we are?"

"Really. That's enough to change your mind? When I asked you to go with us, I remember you saying, 'I don't have any wishes for the New Year, there's no point in going. I'd rather stay home where it's warm.'"

"Oh leave him alone, Guren," Shinya interrupts, "Yuu-kun was just upset then. You can't hold him to that. You can ride with us there."

"No, he can't."

Shinya continues ignoring Guren, "We can catch up, since I doubt we see you during the festival."

Yuu thinks for a moment, "Yeah, that's fine. Are you leaving now? I don't want to be late."

"Guess, there's a first time for everything, you never cared before." Yuu rolls his eyes and shoves past Guren, sending Mika a quick text before getting in the car. Yuu is impatient the whole way there, silently urging Guren to drive faster and stop chatting with Shinya. When they finally reach the shrine, Yuu hops out waving goodbye, leaving them to find parking before making his way to the meeting point.

When Yuuichirou spots Mika, he pauses to admire him. He's in the process of buying drinks from a vendor and he looks great in his kimono. It's in a similar style to Yuu's except its blue with a matching kinchaku hanging from his wrist, it's a striking contrast to his golden hair and it makes his eyes even bluer, plus he doesn't look angry either, so that's a positive. Yuu smiles in quiet admiration before calling out to him.

When Mika's eyes meet his, Yuu can see his whole countenance change. Mika beams before hugging him as best he can with his hands full and handing Yuu a cup of amazake. Yuu stirs it before taking a sip, it's warm and sweet, perfect for the cold day.

"Glad you came, Yuu-chan."

Yuu looks up at Mikaela and can see no hint of insincerity in his eyes and he's sure his relief is palpable. "Yeah, of course, I wouldn't miss it." They take a seat a little farther back from the crowds and Mikaela cuddles in under Yuu's arm close to his side, resting his head on Yuu's shoulder. Yuu basks in the warmth of having Mika's presence near him again as they watch the lines of people stream through. He's glad they picked the third day to come, the first two days were probably insanely busy if this is anything to go by.

While Yuu is extremely comfortable in this position, it is making it hard to drink his amazake which he actually likes. Mika must sense his dilemma because he stirs it for him with a chuckle and leans up to place a kiss along Yuu's jaw line. "I missed you, Yuu-chan."

"I missed you too. I'm sorry I yelled at you."

"It's okay, I kind of understand where you were coming from now. It's my fault for not realizing it sooner."

"No, Mika! I was out of line, I shouldn't have-"

"No, Yuu-chan, we both know it was my fault, but I don't want to talk about this now, there'll be plenty of time for that later." They finish their drinks with Mika dutifully stirring Yuu's before standing up and joining the crowd.

They make their way down the vendor lines, buying snacks to share between themselves on their way to the shrine entrance. Even though Yuu knows they'll eventually have to talk, for now it's just like it was before, him and Mika in their own little world, and Yuu couldn't be happier.

After they've washed their hands and prayed at the shrine, Mika insists they write wishes to hang on the temple tree and Yuu willingly obliges.

"What's your wish?" Mika askes once they're ready to hang them.

"To eat more curry and for Guren to stop harassing me."

Mika laughs, "That's two wishes."

Yuu shrugs in response, "If I give two options, there's a better chance one of them will come true." Mika shakes his head with a smile. "What's yours?"

"I can't tell you, then it might not come true."

"What! That's not fair, I told you mine!"

"You chose to. I didn't make you," Mika teases.

"You asked and I can't deny you. Come on, just tell me."

Mika flushes, but still remains firm, "I can't, I really want it to come true and you might bring me bad luck."

"I will not," Yuu reaches for the paper, but Mika hops out of reach laughing.

"Sorry, Yuu-chan, not for your eyes." Yuu narrows his eyes and in the next second tackles Mika to the ground snatching the paper away in victory.

"You couldn't have been a little gentler," Mika complains attempting to push Yuu off.

"Sorry, I'll make it up to you later." Yuu gives him a quick kiss before opening the wish.

For Yuu-chan to be mine forever because I love him to the moon

and back, even if he doesn't know it

Yuuichirou looks down in surprise at Mikaela who's avoiding eye contact, "Mika?"

"Hmm?"

"You mean it?"

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"You love me too?"

"….Just a little bit."

A grin splits Yuu's face, he knows exactly what Mika really means. "To the moon and back, huh?" Mika grimaces and shoves Yuu off to the side. "Well we better go hang them to make sure they come true. Although, I don't think this one will have any problem." He hauls Mika up and drags him over to hang their wishes before pulling him close resting his hands on Mikaela's hips. "I love you Mikaela."

Mika flushes, "I love you too," he mumbles before burying his face in Yuu's neck. Yuu can't help but think this is a perfect start to a new year. It might have been a bit bumpy, but these past six months were probably some of the best in his life and now that he finally really truly has Mikaela, he can't help but tease a little.

"So….you were kind of proposing to me, weren't you?"

"No!"

"Oh," Yuu feigns disappointment. "That's too bad, I would've said yes."

Mika pulls back, "What? Seriously?"

"Yep, but you weren't, so never mind," he ruffles Mikaela's hair before stepping back.

"Wait! I changed my mind, I was!"

Yuu grabs the hand reaching for him and laughs, "Too late, try again next year!"

"Yuu-chan!"