Oh yay… I've been gone so long; I've lost the thread for this story. I suppose it's high time I wrap this story up. Thanks for those of you who've stuck by me.

Chapter 17

Bikky rolled over in bed and sighed into his dark skinned lover's shoulder.

"You think too loud…" Duet murmured under his breathe, obviously still asleep.

"Sorry." Bikky smiled lightly, prodding the other boy to wake up.

"Come on. Your mom is on the phone right now, I can hear her. I think it's the final date for the final court appearance. If so, we get the verdict then."

The raven haired boy grumbled incoherently as he pulled the blankets around him tighter.

"Fine. I'll get up and tell you the news."

The blond trotted out of the room, stretching his sore muscles as he went and stopped in the kitchen where everyone was already gathered.

Mort had the phone to her ear and the other two adults tried to look like they weren't listening to the conversation.

"I understand. Thank you." Mort replied softly to the person on the other line and hung up. She turned to her audience. "The next date is a month from now. You're welcome to visit whenever you'd like."

With that, she stood up and motioned for her younger son to follow her. They walked down the hall to Duet's temporary room and knocked. A muffled answer was the reply and they walked in.

"What do you suppose…" Bikky wondered out loud.

"I hope that he decides to stay with us…" Ryo whispered with a pained look on his face.

"What?" The blond boy yelped.

-

"Duet, I am offering a home here with us, however, I completely understand if you'd like to live with your adoptive father."

Duet blinked his bleary eyes in the general direction of his mother and brother, opting to put on his glasses for his sight's sake.

"Um… way to break the ice Mort…" He cracked his neck. "But I'll have to politely decline your offer, as nice as it is. You're only doing it because I'm your child. I'm no longer your responsibility."

Mort looked guilty but plowed through her speech.

"If that is your choice then so be it. We will be here for you should you ever decide that you want to remain in contact with us."

Duet nodded sleepily and was surprised when his younger brother caught him in a hug.

"It would be nice to talk to some one every now and then. Mom doesn't understand guy stuff."

The raven haired boy smirked as he ruffled the younger boy's hair.

"Sure. We'll keep in touch."

"Good."

-

When three people came out of the room looking happy, it was almost an ill omen for those sitting in the kitchen.

"Well, shall we be on our way? I want to get home some time today." Duet tugged on Ryo's sleeve.

The blond cop almost cried in relief.

"Right lets go."

Goodbyes were exchanged and promises were made. Numbers were exchanged between the brothers and hugs were given.

"We'll see you later!" Duet called over his shoulder to his newfound family.

-

Okay… probably only one chapter left… sorry to disappoint. Laters.

Shinimegami7