With or without you

Title inspired by: U2 – With or without you

Disclaimer: I don't own KHR.

Author's Note:

Assignments. Exams. Oral examination. Sciatica. Computer virus. *sigh* What else do I need? Please pardon the huge time spans in between my updates OTL I would bow down in thanks (for all the lovely, encouraging comments) but... the pain...

For the record: I love you guys. I really do!

My dearest thanks to TheMcgabster, kahochan13, Audriel, KHR LOVER, Okuri Soji, Marabou, DatAznKid, Ruiminate (twice XD), hleexda, chrome-yuuki, yAsUmI kErZhEn, NinaKerndall, LavenderSkies, DarkRainbowNymph and DD

Moved the "answer-section" to the end... because nobody wants to read my massive gushing.

Thanks for reading. I truly appreciate it

Much obliged, ladies (and gentlemen?)

Life was little more than a chain of odd events. And, as with all chains, it was full of intricate knots and some parts were covered in rust and nobody was quite sure how long it would last before breaking apart. Life and chains were made of links. Each and every new encounter, every single relative, lover or friend was just another piece in the stringing together of different events.

Knowing this was enough for Chrome.

Knowing this was enough for someone who was just walking down the interstice between promising dreams and lying illusions on her path leading to hell. Because her reality was just as real as the persons she had ever met.

Undoubtedly, the strongest link in her chain belonged to Boss.

Unfortunately, her mother's link had crumbled away a long time ago.

Strangely, Mukuro-sama's link had been rusted to the point she thought it was going to break. However, it seemed like it was slowly recovering.

And Hibari-san's link... She wasn't sure whether or not she was allowed to add it to her chain.

With or without his link?

With or without him.

His grip was void of gentleness.

And her voice subsided in the stillness of vast corridors.

"... where are we going?"

Faint breathing of words. Simultaneously, the pressure on her upper arm rose in intensity, almost becoming something akin to pain.

Discomfort aside, the whole situation would have been somewhat cute if only he had grasped her hand instead. But bearing in mind that Hibari-san was involved, there was an instant limit of usable expressions. For example, terms such as 'cute', 'lovely' or 'sweet' were labelled as unsuitable in her head. Maybe 'nice' was a better definition; more innocent, more appropriate? Yes, it would have been nice if he hadn't caused such a scene back then. And 'back then' referred to the moment he had abruptly decided to abduct her. Also: Holding hands would have been nice (not cute).

This, however, was not.

Indignation, a feeling foreign and weird, wormed its way into her soul. Clenching her right hand tightly, she put on a mask of resolution (though others would presumably beg to differ: Her current expression bore more resemblance to a full-grown pout than anything else) and gathered enough courage to repeat the previous question for all one is worth. More or less at least. But not too loud. A bit gentler would be better, right?

A great amount of disappointment washed over the poor female when her voice was, once again, nothing but a breathy whisper.

"... where are we going? Hibari-san?"

For the longest time, silence reigned.

No answer.

Maybe he hadn't heard her? Maybe he had but couldn't answer because he wasn't quite sure himself? A plausible assumption since she was allowed to witness his brooding; from the way he ran his fingers through that black thatch of tousled hair to how he cursed almost inaudibly under his breath. Little things like these were clear indicators after all. So, even someone as collected as Hibari-san fell victim to rash decisions at times. Moreover, without any plans, he was his impulsive self from ten years ago all over again. Seeing the evidence that he was still human, she smiled while the man dragged her further into the confusing system of apparently endless hallways.

"Someplace quiet," the overdue reply.

Taken aback by his unscripted remark, Chrome had to swallow some saliva before she deemed herself able to react. "Hibari-san's office then?" she offered softly after the hold on her upper arm had become more relaxed. Less crushing and less abrasive.

"No. Preferably a location where we don't have to stumble across any witless herbivores."

Naturally. This was just like him. He had recovered strikingly fast from his lapse of self-control, had already returned back to his careful nature of meticulous planning. Truly a shame for she would have loved to see more of his irrationality. Also, it was rather frightening how quickly he had regained his composure. Especially if compared to herself whose countenance was still shaking from being startled by his mere appearance (she mused: Coming to the party, being exposed to a great number of crowding guests; Had that also been a haphazard move of his?).

Casting a glance at his tall build, the Mist bit her lip.

One way or another, the Cloud's sangfroid was undoubtedly disturbing.

"H-how about my office?"

Nevertheless, her support was feigned. Truth be told, she was (for her standards) fairly peeved. Eighteen days had passed and he hadn't called her once. Wasn't that enough evidence of his lack of interest towards her and the child's well-being? On the other hand, he had made the effort to come to the mansion and, basically in the same breath, had forced her to bend herself to his will. Ah, this was so vexing. Why couldn't things be easier? Why couldn't he just make up his mind? With or without her?

Head pounding, she proceeded in blaming herself as well. Because she was giving in again, listening and obeying. All for him and why was it that she still wanted him anyway? Not only him but his love too. His respect. Unable to express her inner self, her feelings and the turmoil, Chrome allowed him to drag her further into the labyrinth of aisles.

"There is no difference. Your office, mine... both are likely to rank high in a chart of places where busybodies would start searching," he explained with a monotone voice before adding, "The wine cellar will do."

Despite him being unable to see her (for he walked in front of her. Surely, it wouldn't kill him to turn around once and to pretend to pay a bit attention to her), she still nodded. What is more, the idea itself was certainly reasonable since nobody seemed to be really aware of the rumoured cellar's existence. Once again all but attentive, she blanched in astonishment when the former prefect suddenly increased his walking speed, making her stumble after him. Almost crashing into a wall due to her previously mentioned lack of attention, Chrome whimpered sharply though she was saved by a quick jerk from the dark-haired man. The duo turned left. Across a long corridor, followed by yet another sharp turn. A few moments later, they reached a staircase leading to a sombre basement.

"Oh, it's dark," commented mother-to-be while looking into the pitch-black mouth in front of them. Certainly, 'mouth' was the best comparison she could come up with inasmuch as the darkness appeared to be ready to swallow anyone who dared to enter it. She gulped. So, that was the...

"Hm, this will do."

Trembling hands sought refuge in the folds of her dress, wrinkling the fine fabric in the process. Being afraid might have been an exaggeration but she was also too much of a coward to deny the feeling of uneasiness which was rippling over her skin, creeping through her veins and teasing every single nerve. As with all Mafia-related things, she remained wary. What could be expected of a place that only Hibari-san and Mukuro-sama were familiar with? Considering the thought as being not exactly reassuring, she followed the skylark regardless. Omitting the memories of any horror film she had ever seen, Chrome decided that an angry Hibari-san was still way more frightening than any spooky murkiness could ever be.

The heavy smell of mould made it difficult to breathe.

Being stupidly courageous, she took another step, heels scraping over the stone stairs.

While the man in front of her had vanished, Chrome groped in the dark before hearing the dull sound of footsteps on dry soil.

Flickering. The unique smell of a burning match. A bright flame.

She blinked carefully then observed how Hibari-san lit the candles of a three-armed sconce, distance between them not as great as expected. Shiver-inducing cold breathed over her skin and the candles became a lethargic source of light, illuminating the place in a faint sepia. Oh, how she wished he hadn't done such a thing. Now, in hindsight, darkness had been the better choice. Inasmuch as: Small movements everywhere. Spiders and other (unidentifiable) creepy animals were crawling over the various wine racks, hiding away until successfully concealed from curious gazes.

The Mist wailed soundlessly.

The Cloud leaned against a stone pillar.

Even if he was unfazed by his chosen location, she couldn't help but look around, wondering just where the hell she was. Or rather why she had bothered to pursue the man. Tired and frustrated, she gave up on soliloquising, letting her gaze wander about.

So, this was the infamous wine cellar.

Further inspecting the repulsing surroundings, the young woman noticed a heavy, cobwebbed axe hanging on one of the walls. A few more weapons were scattered over the walls, some were peeking out of wooden boxes and antique chests which were coated with various layers of dust. Therefore she concluded that this place was most likely used to store not only wine (the name 'wine cellar' was a dead giveaway) but also a few weapons. Maybe some corpses as well. Chrome wasn't too sure about the latter. However, she certainly wouldn't put it past the aloof man (nor Mukuro-sama) to use this place as a dump for all the enemies he once fought. Not generally speaking, but rather those foes who had 'mysteriously disappeared'. Or, as Reborn-san had put it rather crudely: 'Vanished without a trace as if fallen off the face of earth. Never to be heard of again.'

The female illusionist shuddered, whether it was from the cold or from... No wonder nobody was informed of this part of the basement (there was a connection to their underground base near Boss' office, a well kept secret among the Vongola). It all made sense now. Though she wouldn't necessarily dub this knowledge reassuring either.

His voice brought her back to reality in a flash.

"I doubt any herbivore will look for us here."

No, definitely not. And this was, by all means, an understatement. Even if their fellow Guardians (wait, even if ANYONE) knew that they were both hiding down there, no one would dare to come and check it out. Plus, she was all too aware of how his grey eyes were monitoring her every move, from studying the rustling of her dress to the swaying of long, dark hair. Sneezing silently, she inadvertently drew his attention to her face.

"Ano... ," she started, already knowing what he expected of her. Acknowledging his... thoughtfulness to have a conversation in private. To answer his expectations and soothe his ego, she tactfully said, "I... suppose. Nobody will look... here."

"Sit down then."

Her answer was too fast for her own liking. Not to mention that it was also on the borderline to cynicism.

"Where?"

For some seconds, Chrome coughed lightly before reconsidering her response.

"I'm good."

Hibari-san just stood there, back flat against the pillar, eyes still fixated on her. Expression unreadable, he then curled his hand over his mouth, elbow supported by his other arm.

"It's been two weeks."

Instinct kicked in and she clothed her face in timid smiles.

"I hardly noticed (not two weeks! Eighteen days! That was a discrepancy of four days). Time flies when one is busy." And she hated herself for being bestowed with the gift of lying. Falsehood was an illusionist's true nature. However, the skylark rendered everything save the truth ineffective. She and her lies were see-through.

"If you say so."

Because he knew the truth and she knew the truth and there was no need to explore her obvious frustration any further. Instead, he opted to push his hands into the pockets of black suit trousers. Not one to waste precious time, he launched his verbal missiles straight after readjusting his pose.

"You were on a date with Irie Shoichi."

Since there was more to come, Chrome held her tongue patiently. It was amusing, in a strange way, since she wasn't even truly surprised anymore. Somehow, it was only natural that Hibari-san was aware of what was going on. Dawning realisation befell her in an instant. Despite her need for reassurance, he saw no need in contacting her... for the young man always was in the know. Still, couldn't he, for once, go out of his way? Just to ensure her that he wasn't completely apathetic to all the things going on in her life?

"Someone saw you. Together. In a café."

Double take. She reflected on yesterday's events, arms akimbo and nose scrunched up in deliberation, before she answered with a soft smile.

"Oh, you're mistaken (a frown crossed his features. Apparently, he wasn't too fond of her choice of words). The person I was talking to in the café, that was Mukuro-sama. I met Shoichi-san afterwards."

Narrowed eyes stared at her in disapproval.

Great. It had been Rokudo Mukuro.

Because that made things so much better.

Groan arising from the back of his throat, Hibari-san brushed his hands over the grey vest in an attempt to smooth out potential creases while a peculiar scowl manifested on his face.

"A double-date then?"

Seriously, was this his definition (or rather: understanding) of a double-date? Cos she thought that it involved two couples who...

"A figure of speech," he interrupted her silent pondering, left eyebrow twitching in an annoyed manner. Yet her glance remained suspicious. "Despite lacking the interest to participate in such mingling, I do consider this as general knowledge."

"I didn't...," she started but left the sentence hanging. Either way, he wasn't genuinely interested in dwelling on this topic.

In lieu of defending himself or waiting for her counter, he reminded her of more pressing matters by repeating, "Irie Shoichi."

As he uttered the name, Chrome walked over to a wine rack where she examined the various, expensive-looking bottles of European wines. Tentative fingers skimmed over a green bottle until they reached the neck. Carefully pulling the object out of the rack, she wiped a thumb over the yellowed label. "Shoichi-kun was just being friendly. Neither of us had a present for today, so he offered me to go shopping. Together, that is," she explained as if talking to an impertinent child (which wasn't that far from the truth. Admittedly, a bit stretching was required but the overall resemblance was uncannily undeniable), then read out, "Château de la Roche aux Moines."

"That bottle is worth about five hundred and fifty thousand Yen, or so."

Lone eye wide in shock, she almost dropped the fragile thing. However, presumably due to her battle-wise reflexes, she managed to fasten her hold before sliding the bottle back into the shelf. Once she was assured of the wine's safety, the Mist sighed and turned around, only to hold her breath in the same moment.

All of a sudden, Hibari-san was standing in front of her, arms propped against the wine rack and efficiently trapping her. His body was close... too close. As a result, she pressed her own body against the shelf. Bare back touched corks as well as the cool surfaces of some bottles which caused shivers to run down her spine. Dear Kami-sama, for someone who regularly emphasised his disdain for crowding, he was fairly content with invading her personal space. The young woman lowered her sight, barely looking at the tip of his chin.

Breathing was impossible.

The fresh, clean fragrance of his invaded her nose, poisonous aconite intoxicating the already confused mind.

Her vision blurred.

As always, the moments of silence didn't seem to pass. Yet, when his mouth opened and words were ringing in her ears, she didn't want him to continue.

"You," he started monotonously, "Are being careless."

"W-why?" A mewling sound.

"No man is friendly without any hidden agenda."

Shaking her head, she evaded his piercing stare.

"W-what about Yamamoto-san? Or Boss? I-I don't think they pursuit any secret plans nor are they lead by any ulterior motive."

"Exceptions prove the rule. Those two are idiots in any case. They also believe in friendship and love and justice."

Even without looking at his face, Chrome knew what kind of expression he would (in all probability) present to her. More than likely frowning, one eyebrow raised and mouth a firm line. Besides her unsuccessful attempt at reading his mind, nothing else happened. Until:

After a minute or two, he leaned slightly backwards to gain a better view on her face and she exhaled frantically, finally allowing herself to breathe without being caged by his presence. Of course she was aware of that. The differences between Hibari-san and other men. Moreover did she know, that if he still dismissed love as a dispensable, useless emotion, then there was nothing left to talk about. Continuing this conversation would be just as redundant as his view on romance. Trying to say her piece, she nervously raised her head and studied his handsome features in the sepia light.

Her mouth tried to form a sentence as a thundering voice beat her to the punch.

"VOIIIIIIIIIIII!" the roar, its origin questionable though she assumed it came from the ball room, was followed by an angry exclamation, "I don't want to stay in this building! I'd rather freeze to death outside!"

The Cloud next to her growled. He said something but she couldn't hear it because:

"Then go die, scum," came the deadly, booming counter, followed by more screaming, gunshots and a rather original collection of four-letter words. While Chrome was amazed that the Varia's screams were even capable of reaching the wine cellar, she was also utterly confident that Boss regretted his decision to invite the queer assassination squad right at this instant.

Although she was supposed to discuss private matters with Hibari-san, she let curiosity win over and skilfully ducked her head to escape the prison his arms had built. "It's probably better... to find out what's going on," she suggested cautiously while heading for the stairs.

Hibari stayed behind for a couple of minutes. To collect his thoughts. As it turned out, more and more people were testing his patience lately. Surely, as a matter of course Rokudo Mukuro was always in for trouble. Merely hearing the possibility of becoming a nuisance, he was game (for anything).

The Foundation's Chairman got over... or rather, got used to this pattern.

By hook or by crook, he was going to bite him to death one day, so it didn't really matter.

Yet.

On a less positive note, he also had to notice that more herbivores were starting to fuss over Chrome Dokuro. Namely Yamamoto Takeshi (apparently, it had been her who had sought his company), Gokudera Hayato (there was a mutual understanding of some sort between them) and their newest addition, Irie Shoichi (who, and this information was painfully obvious according to secret sources, was fancying her).

Vexing. The only way to describe it was vexing.

Even though there was no apparent reason for him to pay heed to these current developments or meet them with anything else than indifference. The fact was, there was no love lost between him and the Mist Guardian (at least from his point of view. She, however, appeared like an affectionate kitten at times and if he dared to believe the Cavallone's words...).

Wao, the stupid horse's words of wisdom.

"Jealous much?"

He gritted his teeth. Hah! As if he would fall prey to love. On the off chance of him regarding Chrome Dokuro as something more than a mere acquaintance, it was only because she was an attractive woman. As a man, he couldn't deny this.

"You have to alter that attitude of yours or you will lose her for good."

And that was none of his bloody business anyway.

"And it seems like she's really cherishing you for what reason soever. Perhaps, she does even love you."

Grasping a certain green wine bottle by its neck, he narrowed his eyes into slits and slowly relaxed his fingers, loosing the hold until ultimately letting go. Dilated pupils, filled with interest, watched as the glass shattered as soon as it came in contact with the ground, emerald shards soaring through the air before showering down. Red liquid spilled over the floor, seeping into the soil, leaving dark, muddy spots behind. Blood-like stains. A drink for the dead. Expensive it was, but he also recalled that it had been an inauguration gift from a certain Mafia famiglia whose leader was coincidentally the bucking bronco.

A ridiculous sham.

He had absolutely no feelings for Chrome Dokuro.

A short grunt of annoyance and he stalked over to the stairs, trailing the fading clicks and clacks of high heels into the direction of the ball room.

After all, it was so much easier to convince himself that the attraction was purely physical.

"Everybody, please calm down! And while we're on it, please listen up!" Boss' voice echoed through the ample hall, bouncing off the walls before turning into a painful reverberation. Some of his guests winced, hands busy to cover their ears from further harm. The young heir adjusted the microphone to stop the grating noise and he dodged just in time to get out of a wine glass' trajectory. He frowned at the Varia's boss who replied with a disapproving grunt, obviously unhappy about the fact that he missed his target.

"Saying that we were hit by a snowstorm may be an exaggeration. However, I doubt that we have much time left until we're snowed in," the young male continued while fumbling with a cable cord, "As Squalo, in his charmingly kind and unique way, already pointed out, it would be best to stay here for the night. Be that as it may, those of you who are brave enough to leave, please do so." Directing his glance into the Varia's direction, he added, "Honestly, please leave."

Mumbling. Turmoil. Still, all the whispers died down when Kyoko's brother marched straight up to his leader and, in a low voice, muttered something into his ear. A short nod before the Vongola leader straightened himself, hands stroking the Bordeaux-coloured tie.

"Okay, bad news. For the ones who are too eager to escape from here... there may be snowdrifts. If you want to leave, it would be better to do it now before it gets too risky! As for the rest, please be assured that we'll prepare some provisional accommodations for all of you," he explained, his eyes searching the crowd for familiar faces, "And this is a request to my Guardians. I hereby ask you to go to your respective offices and your adjacent relaxation rooms to fetch some blankets, pillows and whatever else you may find."

Everything descended into chaos afterwards. The dividing masses were alarmed because the Mafia had no problems whatsoever with sudden shootings and murder and tons of blood covering their expensive suits; But, and this knowledge was somewhat confidential, as soon as there was such a phenomena as an increased snowfall, they were immediately switching to panic mode. Consequently, some guests made a beeline for the car park while others ran up to their respective leaders and godfathers to discuss further proceedings. And others again were availing themselves of the current situation to raid the buffet.

A calm Tsuna watched the whole scene with great interest.

As he exited from the stage, he noticed two persons who were pushing their way through the masses, briskly approaching him. Leaning against the podium, he crossed his arms, a smile on his lips.

"I can't help comparing them to kindergarten kids."

"No shit! Even the obnoxious Lambo is more relaxed than those guys. Just now, he and the prince bastard from the Varia were busy enjoying the buffet," Vongola's pyrotechnist groused, cold hands in the pockets of his trousers, "But seriously. I mean: A flipping snowstorm? Bugger it! How much of a damn cliché is that? What's next? A blackout?"

The Rain standing next to him laughed yet simultaneously shook his head.

"Gokudera, stop jinxing. And watch your language. Ladies are present."

The newly recovered man (Hibari was an official taboo topic for he refused to explain anything to his taller friend) gave him a blank stare. Shifting from one foot to the other, he sighed. "Ah, right. Juudaime, some of the women are gathering in the kitchen to prepare some hot coffee and tea. Something about 'fancy drinks are nice but not good enough for a situation like this' or so."

The Sky pushed his body away from the podium and the trio moved towards the exit that lead to the grand hall. This was, after all, the only way to get to their offices.

"Understood. Then let's get going as well."

Without any further ado, the group strolled over to the doors. The swordsman was the first, so he reached for the doorknobs but grasped nothing but air. With a look of confusion on his face, he gazed upwards, only to see his own reflection in Chrome's violet eye. For a moment, neither of them reacted before Yamamoto-san regained his senses, put his hands on her shoulders to steer her into the opposite direction, away from the ball room. "Ah... ano...," was all she could say; Puzzled yet she didn't make a stand or resisted his guidance.

"You're coming with me. Don't worry, I'll explain everything to you once we're on the way to our offices." He paused for a second, turning around to speak to the two other males. "I'll take care of Chrome. Aaaaaand team BLUE is off (was this a new invention of his? Team BLUE? Well, granted, they basically did share the same colour scheme and their rooms were incidentally next to each other but...what kind of name was that?). See you later." Gently pushing her forward, Yamamoto-san gave the approaching skylark a nod. Then man halted, one eyebrow raised while he witnessed the Mist's second abduction, silently watching as the duo walked into one of the many hallways. His initial instinct was to follow them, however, a voice called out to him, something he barely recognised as Sawada Tsunayoshi's herbivorous squawking.

"Hibari-san, this way please."

He glanced at them with a bored expression, obviously contemplating following the others. Moreover, he also ignored the smoking bomb's spluttering noises of agony... again. Eyes blinking dazedly, he marched over to trail his leader without any (audible) protest (still, rolling his eyes was a must). Just as awkward as he always was, the brunette male slowed his pace down to run alongside him (nevertheless, he kept his distance since he knew that crowding was a no-no and calling an ambulance on Christmas Eve didn't sound particular thrilling).

The third man froze in place and they passed him. When his mind started functioning once more, he stumbled after them, steps suspiciously uncoordinated and visage twisted into a weird grimace. Hibari decided that, yes, definitely, it would be best to pay no attention to his ridiculous antics and instead faced the herbivore next to him.

"Sawada Tsunayoshi, your face is going to split due to that grin of yours. If not, I'll make sure that it will split by some means or other. And I promise that my methods shall include but are not limited to torture and violence."

A laugh. He dared to laugh. The spineless creature dared to laugh.

In an instant, two tonfa were pulled out and raised high, silver metal glittering in the dimly lit foyer. Despite his mute threat, Hibari wasn't taken serious as the Vongola heir continued his stroll towards the huge staircase in the middle of the room.

"Sorry, Hibari-san. It's just... you and Chrome... alone?"

His statement was layered with a suggestive undertone, dripping and mocking and...

"So?"

Arriving at the stairs and taking the first step, he paused when a loud shriek interrupted his train of thoughts. The source was obviously Gokudera Hayato.

"NO, JUUDAIME! Not this topic! I only recovered recently. Don't torment my mind's eye any further!"

Even though the addressed person smiled, he still ignored him anyway. Just like Hibari did.

"For your information, I talked to Dino-san."

Oh, nothing good came out of talking to that idiot. Ever. Mentally preparing himself to hear yet another round of love talk and unnecessary advices, the black-haired male sighed.

"According to him, Chrome and Irie-kun are on quite friendly terms with each other. Maybe Irie-kun has a thing for her, don't you think so? Well, it's just speculation but, in my opinion, he would make a great father. Somewhat clumsy but still loving." His terracotta-coloured eyes glanced sidewards, observing the twitch of an dark, elegant eyebrow. He pushed the topic, lacing it with cues, "Dino-san also mentioned that a certain someone should get his act together if he doesn't want to end up 'forever alone' like all the other misanthropic, pigheaded oddballs who resemble him. And just for the record, I'm only quoting Dino-san."

The right tonfa rose, cutting him off from bringing about more damage (or rather dropping hints though no one had asked for neither his help nor his assistance, mind you).

"For the record? I see. You try to sacrifice his health in exchange for yours? Wao, never thought you would do such a thing to him."

"Don't discuss things such as 'doing something to someone' and 'things'. Especially not 'things' and I don't care how big they are!"

Both men turned around with different expressions. The Sky's mouth was agape, eyes too big for his own good and the air of incomprehension around him. The Cloud, on the other hand, gritted his teeth in annoyance, wondering if smacking Gokudera Hayato would be considered as animal abuse for he couldn't be viewed as human anymore. Whatever had happened since the last time they had met, his brain must have suffered a lot of damage.

"P-please disregard that comment. C-carry on, if you like."

With careless shrugs of shoulders, they did.

"Etto... where was I? Oh, yes... my uncharacteristic betrayal. My backstabbing plans concerning the Cavallone famiglia." A deep expiration. "You see, we requested Fuuta to compile a ranking. It's about the amount of hospital visits that every single Vongola member slash ally slash contact person slash random visitor or client had to endure. All of them caused by you, of course. And Dino-san is in the second place while I have the questionable honour to lead the list," the Sky sighed as he ventilated the grievance, "Besides, he really did say that, so it's only fair to include him when I'm already treading on thin ice."

"More people to interfere in my affairs. I'm ecstatic," deadpanned the father-to-be yet lowered his weapons, ultimately putting them back into their box.

"But I'm being serious, Hibari-san. Chrome is very important to me, to us all. We simply want her to be happy. So, isn't there anything you can do? For example inviting her to a romantic date?" After conveying his counsel, the young leader promptly facepalmed. Why was he even considering the very idea that the words 'Hibari-san' and 'romantic' were compatible in any sort?

"I don't do dates."

That figures. Of course he didn't do dates. A groan. Wait, that wasn't quite right. It was rather a groan and some expletives from the Storm.

"Come on! Hibari-san, I beg of you! Isn't there a place you could take her to? Just the two of you?"

Surprisingly, he thought for a moment. Then:

"Namimori-chuu."

"Hii? T-that's not... I mean... Ah! Somewhere to eat something!"

"They sell bread there."

Another interruption by courtesy of the Storm Guardian.

"Oh, for the love of-! Juudaime, turn a blind eye to the bastard's wishes and marry Dokuro off to that Irie! He's at least earnestly interested in her. Fuck! To be perfectly frank, even the baseball idiot would be better than this apathetic machine of violen-!"

The response to all this taunting was unusual and therefore unpredictable. Instead of attacking him with his tonfa (like he would do under normal circumstances), Hibari, without even bothering to turn around, simply threw his arm backwards and consequently hit the younger man's nose with flat back of his hand.

"Hibari-san!"

"He asked for it. Plus, the herbivore should consider himself lucky that I don't feel like biting him to death."

"How peculiar. I'm fery fankful, arfehole!" grunted the right-hand man, digits pressing against his abused olfactory organ, cursing when he spotted drops of blood.

Stepping between the two males, Sawada Tsunayoshi held up his hands, trying to soothe his childish subordinates. As he raised his head to speak, he observed that they were already standing in front of a large mahogany double door, his office lay just beyond.

"No bloodshed tonight. We have enough on our plate so please, cease this needless bickering."

"What are you mumbling about, Sawada Tsunayoshi?"

What a nuisance. They still had to inform Hibari of the newest events and, taking into account whom they were talking about, these news would most likely not sit well with him. Since there was no option but telling the truth, the trio's youngest opened the door and stepped into his room.

"Apparently, some minor troubles occurred. On the face of it, the snowfall brings a few complications in its wake. So, leaving may turn into a complicated task... err, later on, that is. Hence I offere-" explained the Sky and glared at the former prefect as soon as he got cut off.

"I'm leaving then. Staying here will only promise to become a hassle."

Palms pressed against each other, he brought his hands up to his face and bowed slightly, eyes shut tightly.

"Please, Hibari-san. We need your aid!"

"Not on any terms!"

With the situation turning the scales against him, he directed his stare towards the smoking bomb who instantly made head or tails of its meaning. Stepping in for his boss, he played the role of the devil's advocate.

"Juudaime, let the traveller embark on his journey. Hibari, if you feel like leaving, be my guest," he cleared his throat, fingers reaching into his pockets to pull the white cigarette box out. "Ah, I wonder if we have enough blankets and rooms for everyone. But then again, Dokuro and Irie may as well share a bed. If others follow their example, we won't be short of space."

"She will stay in my room," the firm command and he stalked off. And it didn't matter that he was fuming and huffing and incredibly bad-tempered, just as long as they were able to manipulate him so that he would end up doing whatever they wanted.

"Nice job, Gokudera-kun."

He chuckled.

"Well, the leopard cannot change its spots. I merely took advantage of his momentary confusion which appears to be his only weakness. This was the crucial point for things to work in our favour. And we're lucky that his obsession with Dokuro is currently stronger than his aversion to... us. Let's see how long status quo lasts."

Nodding.

"Still, it's nice to see you being concerned for her well-being."

"Honestly speaking, I'm more concerned about my own well-being. And well-being translates into health. No doubt, Hibari will be after my ass as soon as he finds out that Irie has already left together with that Spanner guy." Lips holding on to the cigarette, he fumbled with his lighter. "Ha, it's almost sad how dense our idiotic Cloud Guardian is. I mean, can't you try to get into Hibari's head? Use your Hyper Intuition or something and make him understand what it means to care for another human being."

For a couple of seconds, they just ambled through the tidy office, neither saying a word. Gokudera collected a few cushions from the sofa while Tsuna prepared the bed couch in his adjacent relaxation room. Hearing a long sigh, the Storm peeped into the private refuge.

"I wish I could do that," was the amused answer to his previous question. "Because if I were truly able to tame him, I would have avoided a lot of law suits charging the Vongola and even more hospital stays. Yet, as it is, my Hyper Intuition seems to be useless whenever Hibari-san is involved. I dare say he is like a black hole of emotions."

"I approve of that kind of thinking. He's a vacuum of joy. He's not awesome, he's assome!

Even with all his best efforts, Tsuna couldn't stifle the laughter.

"Eh? You made that word up, didn't you?"

Hibari had no intention of staying. But he also had no intention of admitting defeat to a man who had the ability to fall asleep basically everywhere and anytime. Assuming that Chrome Dokuro really preferred Irie Shoichi, he had still the upper hand for she was carrying his child in her womb.

He stopped dead in his tracks.

Just what had happened to 'the attraction was purely physical'?

An honest and happy smile crossed his features. Honest as in 'honestly frightening' and happy as in 'happily murderous'. Granted. He was used to different types of challenges but that didn't put a damper on his confidence. Quite the opposite, in fact. There was no way he would lose! Viewing the whole situation as some kind of fight, he was also allowed to forget about not-quite-there-but-yet-persistent-feelings and had an excuse to express an actual interest for the female illusionist.

Satisfied with those loopholes, he continued walking towards his destination. Once he arrived, his face distorted in bitter disappointment (bordering frustration and discontent). Here he was. Standing in front of Chrome Dokuro's office, door ajar but no one inside. He made a gruffed noise. Who knew where Yamamoto Takeshi and Chrome Dokuro had ended up. The Rain's sense of direction had always been awful. And this included 'finding his way around the mansion'. Determined to find an answer, the young male slammed the door shut.

"Maa maa, Hibari. What's the matter?" Speaking of the devil. Her next-door (office) neighbour exited his room, blankets stacked on his arms to the point where they were almost blocking his sight. "If you're looking for Chrome, she went to Tsuna's office." But he had just come back from... Oh, darn it!

"I guess she wanted to report back," stated the easy-going male, "Oh, by the way, it would be nice if you could lend a helping hand cos... huh?"

Staring at the spot that the skylark had occupied just a few moments ago, the swordsman couldn't help but laugh in amazement. "That was fast. I didn't even see him leaving."

"That should be enough. Don't you agree? Bossu?"

He heard her soft voice. The location wasn't perfect but he had made up his mind and the Mist would listen, whether she liked it or not. Responsibility was one thing. Losing her was another. And it was too easy to combine them. Irie Shoichi would never dare to even look at her again. Banging the door open, he was greeted by two perplexed faces.

"Sawada Tsunayoshi, leave."

"But this is my office!"

A sharp-eyed glare was enough. The herbivore bolted out of the room before Hibari was able to demonstrate the proof of being the strongest of all Guardians. However:

"Eavesdropping won't be tolerated."

The screeching 'Hii' disappeared along with hurried footsteps.

"Chrome Dokuro."

She flinched. Hips brushing against the desk, she hugged the stack of small cushions tightly to her body.

"What do you expect me do? Or rather, what do you want me to do?"

Lying was futile and coming clean was overdue. So, she averted her gaze and whispered, "I-I want you to love me..."

"Here?"

Gasping, she shook her head. Furthermore, wasn't he supposed to ask 'now'? At least if he hadn't contemplated her 'offer' for real. Maybe it was true and men were only thinking about... oh, Kami-sama.

"N-no, I-I didn't mean... I... n-not that... k-ki-kind!"

While she buried her flushing face into the pile of pillows, he peered out of the window. Snow was falling down, everything was white. It was Christmas. This time next year, he would be a father. Loosening his tie, he refocused his attention on the flustered female.

"You," and he emphasised the word, "Are herewith forbidden to go on a date with Irie Shoichi."

On second thought, he should have said 'anyone' instead. The bespectacled man was but one of many. Chrome, on the other side, thought it was funny because he was the only one who was capable of turning a simple demand into something that sounded just like rule. Looking up from the soft 'luggage' in her arms, she tilted her head.

"...w-why?"

"Because you're caring my child inside you. Not his."

"Yes, but-" she alleged yet stopped herself when he approached her. With a flick of his wrist, he clutched her forearm and gave it a tug. The pillows fell down to the ground, pooling around them as she, wide-eyed and speechless, allowed him to do whatever pleased him. She offered no resistance when he decided to pull her forward.

His lips were warm.

The kiss was short.

"And I hate sharing."

Grey hair tousled and lightly laden tray shaking, Gokudera squinted his grass-coloured eyes.

"Something bad is happening. Right now. I can feel it. Is this clairvoyance?"

"Tsuna! Gokudera starts jinxing again!" lamented Yamamoto, though he was, as usual, laughing. He took a coffee mug from the tray and sipped the scorching liquid.

"No, honestly. There's something wrong here. Where is Hibari?"

Face crimson and hands sweaty, Tsuna coughed. Thrice.

"I-in my office. With Chrome. Alone."

The two remaining mugs crashed to the floor, followed by the tray and, finally, by Gokudera himself.

"Fuck! I knew it! Something bad IS happening."

With or without him.

It seemed like she was allowed to add his link to her chain after all.

My thanks to:

TheMcgabster - I'm not XD I just possess a... wanton imagination XD Thanks for your comment! And wanton means weird in my vocabulary^^

kahochan13 - Thanks ;)

Audriel - You think so? Maybe, instead of losing his cool image, the other boys are just jealous XD Hibari realised his attraction to her... and quite aware of it too. He's just in denial. Tsuna is trying his best, he really is but even he has troubles to get through that thick skull of his. Gokudera, however,, managed it this time. A small success, perhaps? Shoichi is a pushover (in a lovely way) but he's not one to give up that easily! You're right, will do! I just want Chrome and Hibari to establish... something before I go off to Bianchi and Dino and the other unfortunate lovers XD Sorry if I'm slow... I promise I'll explain their situation soon! As always: Thank you very much for the comment and the constructive feedback :D

KHR LOVER - Here you go! Sorry, I know it's been a loooong time! Thanks for commenting!

Okuri Soji - Google. I love it. I couldn't live without it :D Oh, well I'm not a big D18 fan (I don't mind but I don't ship it) that's the reason why I decided that Dino who is an outgoing Italian would be misunderstood by others who consider his behaviour as slightly... fruity XD Yeah, but Gokudera is fine now... kinda... almost. You really did that? Okay, now I'm the one who's laughing all alone! Thanks for your comment!

Marabou - Isn't it always like that? Someone's talking about something and the others have no clue what he's going on about? Or maybe that's just me. Thank you very much! I'm also happy that you updated!

DatAznKid - Why would he? Gokudera just repeated 'size' and he... oh, wait. Hibari's a man, right. That should be the first thing on his mind XDDD Thanks for your comment. Your 'They have a wine cellar?' response made my day *lol*

Ruiminate - Asdfghjkl! Ah, t-thank you very, very much! I feel really flattered (which turns immediately into embarrassment in my case) XD I hope this chapter is to your liking! Sorry for taking so long OTL I should update faster whenever I end with a cliffhanger.

hleexda - In this chapter, Hibari seems to be the only one who is really jealous. I'm glad you like the tension and the character development... I'm always afraid that character development (in Hibari's case at least) equals OOCness. Thanks for the feedback :D

chrome-yuuki - Yes, Hibari is. And don't worry about Shoichi. He shall rise again... and again... and again. P-please don't thank me for that! I thank YOU instead for taking the time to write a lovely comment ;)

yAsUmI kErZhEn - I wish it was *sigh* But I'm happy that you enjoy it. Update? Yessir! Understood! Thanks a lot!

NinaKerndall - Thank you very much for your comment. Ah, you're not stupid! I'm afraid I have the memory of a mayfly in terms of updates and such matters. And I apologise for all the mistakes! The spelling mistakes... argh, no, there's really no excuse. I'm just too stupid to find them and too lazy/autonomous to find a beta-reader. As for the grammar... again, I should get a beta-reader because I know I won't be able to find those on my own (is the 'I'm not a native speaker' excuse accepted or should I ask my flatmate to kick my ass? XDD) This chapter contains even more plot *hooray* Oh wait..., it doesn't. Those two are just going round and round in circles again.

LavenderSkies - Apparently, I think it's kinda hard to find multi-chaptered Hibari/Chrome stories in general^^ Thank you very much! Yeah, but developing the relationship with other characters slows me down and I'm not sure if the other readers are too happy about that (I can't change it though.) I hope that this chapter lives up to your expectations ;) Or at least that it gives you a good chuckle! BTW, your user name is soooo lovely O.o

DarkRainbowNymph - The 'next' button is a bitch, isn't it? Hopefully, you enjoy this chapter just as much as the previous ones. If not, I shall force Gokudera to do a striptease for you. Thanks for your comment!

DD - Awww, thanks! Since I'm the author, there is no boom... there's just some puff! I apologise for that ;)

Bold type – only Squalo can handle it. And there won't be a blackout.

Reviews and constructive criticism make me happy XD