Ambrosia

by AyaxRoses

'Love. To truly love, that was one of the only things in this world that would never die. Even if you wished it to. Subaru and Kamui had grown to understand this painfully well.' An alternative ending to the final battle and a future for Subaru and Kamui to be happy together. SubKam SubaruxKamui BL-Yaoi-Shounen-Ai Past Fuuma/Kamui.

12. Sunflower

Ambrosia Chapter 12: Sunflower

A warm summer chapter with a summer flower. Some Common Symbolic meanings for the Sunflower involve good luck, lasting happiness, warmth...

Summary: Into the month of June! Summertime! Things continue to blossom between Subaru and Kamui. They have bonding moments with the former Dragons of Heaven. Subaru has a peaceful visit having tea with his grandmother for the first time in far too long. The person who changed him, brought him back to life, of course, comes up in conversation. Subaru and Kamui spend some more intimate time together and go out on their second date. Some mentions of other CLAMP characters/whereas I added a random name for a brief interaction with a background character/student on campus.

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Summer Heat

Going into June, the summer heat was creeping in more and more lately. It had been warm for a while now… But lately, the sun seemed to burst into overtime.

This left the pair with a slight dilemma. One involving their attire. Or more so the lack thereof.

Kamui opted to wear a "summer-style" school uniform during the day. This consisted of the usual white short-sleeved, button-up, top with black trim around the sleeves. A gold CLAMP school emblem was attached to the collar. The change to pristine black shorts made it bearable for Kamui to go out for post-school errands and the like.

Even if it was Spring year-round outside the campus it was still so bright and sunny. Leave it to Nokoru Imonoyama to provide seasonal fashion options. So Kamui had worn his uniform today. When he wasn't in uniform he wore quite similar outfits, with tops made from lighter fabrics.

Kamui had been able to keep from burning up and stay sane during the summer. There was a problem that came with this, however, more a problem for Kamui's admiring boyfriend. Overheated, emerald and gold eyes followed the lithe figure everywhere.

It's not as though the pair hadn't seen each other in various states of undress. Fighting for the world's future and all the hospital visits made it so they had seen each other, albeit, wrapped more in bandages than clothing.

Everything that happened the past year, made feeling aroused a very distant afterthought. Now though…

Kamui's changed to lighter and shorter summer wear. His long sleek legs were partially exposed, slightly above his knee to the way down. Adding that with Kamui's unknowingly seductive manner of lying on their bed, spelled disaster. At the very least for Subaru's sanity.

Soft milky-white thighs were in full view to their amorous admirer. Kamui laid back on their bed with his legs slightly spread out. One knee was bent up whilst the other spread out. Long, lengthy and incredibly sensual legs would.

While he had been able to maintain a professional appearance, reading and partially maintaining various case files, now was different. He made the fatal error of giving in to temptation and looking his beloved up and down. It had been impossible to stop. Subaru nearly dropped the work files in his hand.

I know he's not doing this on purpose but… Subaru licked at the seam of his lips. He had to bite them hard to suppress the sound between a groan and needy growl as Kamui's legs shifted, brushing against each other so perfectly.

His younger boyfriend spread out further. Violet-blue eyes wandered over every inch of exposed skin beside him.

Kamui's slender arms stretched up and over the head of messy raven hair "It's been way too Hot…" Kamui softly whined.

"Uh-huh.." Subaru hums out dumbfounded, not quite able to retain words coming from those seductive lips. Emerald and gold eyes devouring every inch of his love.

"We're still technically in Spring too…" Kamui groans, but an afterthought comes out. "I mean I guess inside it's not too bad, but just taking a step outside it's boiling…" The pouty curve on Kamui's lips would have been seen as being beyond cute. Now, it was cute and frustratingly sensual.

"Do you feel hot?" Kamui voices, tilting his head curiously. The older man hardly broke a sweat or had trouble keeping warm in the winter. He definitely shared that warmth with Kamui on so many occasions, so it was hard to be upset. Even if his whining and concerns over the heat felt childish in comparison.

Subaru hadn't seemed too bothered, cheeks not overly red like Kamui's own, but his eyes were clouded over and darkening. It brought several shades of pink blooming onto pale cheeks. Kamui tried not to shift his legs and hips too much. The intense and returning glances kept him feeling overwhelmed.

Shadows of desire hovered over the orbs of green and emerald. "Y-yeah…" Subaru admits, mouth going dry. More than I can say…

There's a soft, serene curve to the older man's lips. His eyes caress every inch of his overheated and beautiful beloved.

The smile makes Kamui catch his breath. Cheeks flush wildly red, and heat raises from far more than the summer heat. Perhaps he wasn't just feeling the summer heat right now. The younger boyfriend bites down on his lip, suppressing a little mewl. Violet-blue eyes took in every centimeter they could of scared and entirely beautiful muscles.

Kamui wasn't spared from his own lovesick spell. His senses worked into overdrive. The room started nice and cool but...

Violet-blue eyes scanned over the same page of the textbook he'd been holding for nearly an hour. Staying focused was a bit challenging now as he kept stealing glances at his beloved. Not that they needed to hide how they felt.

'It's still so embarrassing.' Kamui processes.

The lovesick teen wasn't about to admit to his boyfriend he hadn't even started on his reading assignments. Kamui became far too occupied checking his boyfriend out, and burying his face in books when he thought was going to be caught.

They were at home and the weather got unbearable with heat. Kamui didn't expect his boyfriend to wear his usual long coats all year long.

There was this little-known fact (between Subaru and Kamui now) that Subaru had slept and often went shirtless during the warmer months. Nothing unusual.

Except it was Subaru. His boyfriend Subaru, that made his everything weak with so much as a smile. It was far too easy to buckle under intense and likely heated gazes drawing him back in. Every defined muscle of the other's abdomen made his knees weak.

Kamui never wanted to be under something more in his life. Never imagined he'd have a thought like that.

'Not that it has to involve doing 'that' but…' His thoughts flooded through, making his chest and lower body ache. Violet-blue eyes shivered, heating up, but not in a bad way.

Desires left Kamui to swallow hard. It was more than anything a desire for that intimacy alone. Feeling the warm pressure of his precious person lying over him, possibly resting on him. Amorous lips kissing him soundly. Tender fingers caressing his hands, pinning them up by the pillows.

'The reverse would be nice too… ' Kamui pondered, his beloved made for an excellent pillow to rest upon.

"Kamui?" The worried tone made Kamui bolt up.

'I can't keep losing myself like this… '

"Ah sorry, just L-lost in thought…" Kamui mumbles out, gaze shifting as much as possible. Embarrassing or not the younger boyfriend fell into his thoughts yet again. With a goofy delirious curve to his lips. The image of pleasant touches and a feeling of closer skin on skin contact and intimacy that came with it. Like with their first meeting. Like that first time they confessed.

Curious, Kamui rolled over to rest on his side. He saw his loved one copying the movement. Their bodies now facing each other as two pairs of eyes heartedly take the other in.

Orbs of violet-blue darkened, admiring the exposed, beautiful form beside him. Shameless and quite openly Kamui's eyes devoured every newly exposed inch of the one he loved.

Subaru has quite occupied himself, eyes trailing over every millimeter of his beloved's creamy-white legs. A loving hand gently came to rest on Kamui's hip.

Kamui gasped a bit at the touch, on warm sensitive skin. The older male attempted to retract his hand. "Sor-" Kamui interrupted grabbing his hand and putting it back in place. He should have reacted more surprised, been too flustered to think or move further, but was far too hot to think with a sense of rationality. The tender, loving touches never failed to send Kamui's brain into a spiral.

Physical desire was surely strong between the pair. The overwhelming emotion of love came alongside it, intensified even more. Desire to come closer spread between the pair. Daydreams of eventually becoming one took over all of his senses.

Amorous flutters spread through Kamui's lower abdomen. He studied his beloved's form with interest and warmth. There was that warm haven, he couldn't take his eyes off of. A firm and all too warm chest, that Kamui had cuddled up on and pillowed through every storm of emotion. A place Kamui considered home.

"Ah..." Subaru whimpered a little, surprised and sensitive? Dual-toned eyes looked down to see a silky head of raven hair buried within his chest. Soft presses of lips were placed across the exposed chest, still quite innocent, but paired with the touches from all too curious hands, trailing down, it made it hard not to react.

"K-Kamui!" Subaru cries out. Kamui immediately came back down to earth. He lifted his head. The younger of the two looked at his own hand in horror, quickly retracting. Fingers splayed on the expansive, comforting chest, Kamui deemed his sanctuary. They had been trailing all over. Needy hands caressed all over their new territory.

When coming to, both boyfriend's cheeks lit aflame. Gold and emerald fell deeply into darkened violet-blue.

"I'm so so sorry!" Kamui apologized, profusely, looking as though he was about to cry.

At the vulnerable tone and trembling lips, the older took initiative. Stopping Kamui's pain always came first.

"No, Kamui, I…" Subaru found it hard to speak. He boldly snatched Kamui's wrist into his hand and brought the hand to his chest. There were no barriers to keep from Kamui's timid hand feeling out every single heartbeat.

"It's not like I minded it." Clearing his throat in hopes to find words, Subaru went on. "Quite the opposite…I love your touch."

While he didn't process his words well enough, the sparkle in violet-blue eyes told him he did something right. The case was fully closed when Kamui pressed another hand to the back of Subaru's neck and sealed their lips in a sweet kiss.

Kamui's free hand reached out, cupping an equally flushed cheek. A shining intensity radiated in orbs of gold and emerald. The whites of his beloved's eyes glowed, as irises darkened with desire.

Subarus's cheek leaned beautifully into his touch, warming up as he nuzzled his beloved's hand. Kamui's hands continued to caress and cradle the porcelain skin. There was a moment, where Kamui's breath hitched.

This close-up, violet-blue eyes entranced upon the sight of their love. The vision of long, dark eyelashes fluttering fully to a close obstructed his senses.

"I love you." Kamui's three beautiful words rang like an angelic melody to the older man's ear. It broke the heat spell. Momentarily.

"I love you too," Subaru returned, as he always did, with a fervent passion he couldn't hide for the world. Their lips pressed together, chaste and sweet, but not willing to part for the longest time. Every emotion, connection, heartache, and dream they shared melded deep into the kiss.

It was no surprise when Kamui's gasped and felt a tongue licking the paper-thin seam of his lips.

"Subaru," Kamui mewls into the other's mouth, shy but gladly parting his lips, allowing for a deeper kiss. His lower lip is taken captive by two amorous lips.

A little nervously, Kamui pressed back into the kiss. His beloved's tongue was instantly accepted inside the wet cavern. Subaru had time to further explore. Soft kitten licks traced the inside of the younger man's cheeks. He daringly experimented with licks to sensitive cheeks, teeth, gums, and the thin roof of Kamui's mouth.

"Mnn!" Kamui's cries were devoured into his lover's mouth. Every loving slip of tongue or brush of lips was done so with such a languid passion. It was passion yet still somehow so tender, so Subaru. The older male experimented, tilting his head and holding a hand to the back of Kamui's neck. Their lips met again and again. Kamui's lips pressed over his love's bottom lip. Their lips met beautifully as Kamui's head tilted just a bit to the right.

Their kisses seemed to only last longer become more daring. Even if it added more heat to this summer, neither bothered to stop. Books and study materials became long forgotten.

Adoring hands on his hips, tightening just a bit more, left Kamui moaning. "Subaru~" His lips cried out sweetly, before being swallowed up.

Said boyfriend gave a particularly tight squeeze between Kamui's hips and thighs. Mind far too gone in a haze to think things through just yet. Especially so when Kamui was so reciprocal. A shy tongue peeked out again and traced alongside his love. Their tongues danced, entwined, and fought for a heated dominance.

Kamui's loud, breathy moans and whimpers were swallowed up by. Heat pooled within Subaru's stomach and slightly lower. He grunted lowly, keeping a tight hold on his love's hips.

"K-Kamui…" Subaru calls out between kisses, trying to reign in his senses.

Either Kamui didn't mind they were being much more intimate or was too far gone. The slender, heated young man started to roll towards his back. An exposed creamy-white thigh slung around the other's strong hip bones.

"You feel so…" Kamui cooed. Violet-blue eyes sparkled so dreamy, dazed, and filled with something hot, only seen before in fantasies. "Subaru," he smiles so sweetly. The younger male laughs gently, eyes glossy as though in a daze.

"K-Kamui we should ah… maybe… probably-"

Subaru is cut off by insistent lips on his own. Not to say he had much resolved to start with. Long, slender arms wrap tight around broad shoulders. Kamui's legs clinch almost painfully tight around his waist.

Subaru deemed this a test from the gods. He barely managed to keep any distance from lying on his beloved, his arms pinned by either side of Kamui's head, keeping him somewhat upright. Kamui rolled fully onto his back, attempting to pull the slightly larger figure up on top of him. Feeling so close like that…

Beautiful pale legs spread so sweetly, allowing the other's legs to rest between them, it was agonizing. The older man had to bite hard on his lip to suppress the screams threatening to come by. "Subaru…" Kamui calls for his love again.

"Kamui…" He's kissed again. "I…" Kamui's lips were entirely insistent as his body snuggled up against him. Subaru gives into the kisses starting lighter until he finds himself returning with a deeper firmer sense of passion.

It wouldn't be the first time we've been like this… Subaru reminds himself. They kissed and cuddled quite regularly… Though this time kisses were much deeper, heated and it was all too easy to get swept up from the arousal alone.

"Kamui, please…" There wasn't a guarantee Subaru could keep thinking with any rationale. So he quickly grasped a hand at Kamui's hip and an arm snuggly wrapped around the boy's waist.

Easily, with his light and deliciously warm Kamui, Subaru was able to shift their positions. He pulled his smaller boyfriend on top and leaned back up to a sitting position. Kamui's hips are made to straddle his lap, a good distance away from his boyfriend's beginning arousal.

Kamui's followed with the shift in positions easy enough. Hazy Violet-blue eyes light up feeling lips caressed once more. The movement is swift and chaste.

When the younger of the two tries to lean in again. The hands upon Kamui's shoulders tighten and pry the amorous, dizzy male away.

"Kamui," Subaru regrets his words as soon as they slip. "Let's cool down a bit…" He insists, breathy, overheated. Hands clasp Kamui's shoulders. Subaru attempts to push as gently as possible, giving them the needed space.

Beautiful violet-blue eyes turn from a glossy heat to a calmer sheen. Kamui's watery orbs begin to tear up. Guilt and shame seep in through those eyes. Kamui's lips tremble, breaking his boyfriend's heart in two.

"I-I'm sorry, Subaru…" Kamui trembles, lip shaking as he expressed his apology close to the other's ear.

"Oh, no-no-no Kamui!" Quickly Subaru leans back up towards the headboard and tugs Kamui into a tight hold. The younger man fits perfectly. Kamui's now fully in his lap. "It's nothing to apologize for!" He stays insistent on this, peppering sweet kisses by Kamui's cheek, and below his ear. He pulls Kamui with him and embraces him until their bodies are flushed.

"You didn't do anything wrong…" Subaru professes, mind, heart, and body belonging to his boyfriend entirely.

Loving fingers stroke down a watering face. Kamui's cheeks rushed red, feeling himself a little clearer.

"Bu… but I…" Kamui tries to protest. His cheeks heated up more before he buried his face into the older man's neck.

'How could I get so carried away?' Kamui mentally berates himself.

"Shh," Subaru hushes him lovingly. He winces at the feeling of tears brushing upon his neck. "You did nothing wrong… if I'm being honest," He swallows hoping this comes out alright. "I loved every single second of it…" Far too much.

The older man feels himself entirely burning up. Heat pools to his abdomen, and rosy-red blossoms upon light cheekbones. Kamui keeps his arms snuggly around the broad shoulders and makes a slight meow at the profession.

"Ah… Subaru…" Kamui whispers. Tender rose-pink lips trail all across his cheeks, down his jawline.

"I just…" Subaru knew he couldn't be more heated if he tried. Beautiful hues of scarlet bloomed all over his facial features. "I didn't want to get carried away… or do something we were not both ready for…"

Kamui frowns at this a little saddened by the tone. He understood his love's concerns.

"I… was the one who got carried away…"

"No, I'm just as responsible."

"But I was-"

Subaru's finger found its way to plush pink lips. "I insist… I wanted that very much Kamui," He assures, his lips quickly replace where his finger had been taking Kamui into a soothing, languid kiss. His tongue caresses all across Kamui's bottom lips making him whimper.

Mind turning to mush Kamui tries to recall any logical thought. Aside from… I do want you, Subaru. Step by step, the thought alone of that sensual gradual buildup was arousing. Kamui winced his eyes further shut.

"I only want to share more and more experiences with you," Subaru goes on between deep kisses. Kamui's hands find their way to his cheek and the back of his neck. "To t-take things," Kamui slips his tongue in shyly, slowly exploring his beloved. "S-step by step," Subaru continues. Kamui's lips keep sealing over his own, a soft pink tongue slips out to caress loved-up lips. "And to be sure… there are no regrets…"

Violet-blue eyes shot open at that word, long eyelashes fluttering wildly. Pain seared in the inside of Kamui's chest, so badly he had to refrain from clutching it.

"Subaru… "Kamui coos, putting as much love and devotion into the name. He cuddles close, pressing kisses all across an equally flushed cheek. His legs curl around and brush up against his lover. Subaru bites his lip hard, feeling exposed legs brushing all over him. There's a wry curl to Kamui's lips knowing he could get the calm-natured man in such a state.

"I also like that… we're taking things at our own pace…I love how considerate you are and so so kind… it makes me-" Kamui begins, clearing his throat, and eyes darting down to the older man's chest. Was there a word to describe it? Subaru's consideration was perfect, sweet, assuring, and filled to the brim with love. It was a wonder Kamui didn't overflow. But… still….

'Knowing how much you think of me and my feelings. It makes me…'

"I'm glad we are… and you're so kind… wanting to make sure I'm comfortable…" Violet-blue eyes zero in where his love's heart should be. "But… I… I… could never regret anything I do with you…"

Kamui seals their lips into one sweet, lingering, and innocent.

'It makes everything burn even more..'

The younger man's voice quieted to a whisper. "Even if right now we ended up…" Kamui whined, unable to finish. His cheeks blossomed with a fiery red and looked his love in the eyes for as long as he could stand. It was more than enough feeling adoring, heated and wanton eyes devouring him. "I'd... N-Not ever. I could never feel bad like that…not when it comes to you."

"Kamui…" Subaru adoringly breathes his love's name. His beloved cutely ducks down diving his face into his usual sanctuary. "I'll never regret being with you. Not ever." Kamui further clarifies. Reddened ears listen for the symphony of Subaru's heart.

"I love you…" Subaru professes, tenderly, entirely devoted. "I always will," He declares, not a sense of doubt present. Longer hands grasp one of Kamui's, he presses his lips to the palm of Kamui's hand.

Hearing his beloved squeak at that brings a satisfied smile to the older man's lips. It encourages him to press audible, lingering kisses all over the hand. From the tips of Kamui's long fingers to his milky white wrist, kisses ascend and descend all over.

"I love you Subaru…" Kamui breaths, into the warm exposed chest. Not a barrier between them. And God it feels even more intimate, loving, and perfect now.

"So…I'm guessing well…" Subaru pauses, holding back a soft bit of nervous laughter. Kamui blinks, not quite willing to leave his warm "pillow" but enough to look up at his beloved. Subaru never really seemed to complain when he did this so…

"Would you like to go on a second date then?" Subaru hums his question, fingers threading through silky black.

The question comes out so innocent, sweet, and light-hearted. A sweet contrast to their earlier makeout session, bringing a variety of emotions to the surface for both.

That's how he asks me out? Kamui's mouth hangs slightly open for a moment, looking up curiously at the request. His heartbeat stammers. Surely, his lips press close again only to remain curled up. Devotion and love seep through violet-blue eyes. That's so cute…

Subaru's shimmering gold and emerald eyes leave his love breathless. Violet-blue eyes find it impossible to turn away, as long as his beloved looked at him like that, so vulnerable and adoring, well he'd let his love hold his gaze indefinitely.

It didn't hurt that he quite enjoyed looking into those beautiful orbs. Kamui pressed a lingering kiss where his head had laid. "Of course."

---

Errands

They had always seemed tedious before. Before Kamui, many things seemed dull and lifeless.

This past year Subaru's been able to look at the world with color once again. The first time in nearly a decade.

They're alone in the vast aisle. Kamui had forgotten a few ingredients for his newly found recipes, many of which are written out on the paper in the younger male's hand.

"I still can't believe I forgot soy sauce and eggs! I mean who does that?" Kamui groans, pushing the cart further down an emptied aisle of condiments.

Subaru steals a discreet kiss, the store mostly scarce. His hand wraps around Kamui's smaller ones, which are clenched on the handlebar.

"Incredibly adorable people, apparently," Subaru answers for his beloved, a hint of mirth lighting his eyes.

Kamui's lips pout cutely. His love is tempted to steal those lips again. Not adorable… He wants to voice aloud. But the glimmer in Subaru's eyes and tender smile, makes him believe every word. An impossibility to argue. Knees buckling just a bit Kamui grips extra right around the cart handle.

"Don't be so hard on yourself, you've been preoccupied enough with exams," Subaru begins, leaning closer to whisper in his beloved's ear. "Angel…"

"A-a-angel!?" Kamui yelps, heart fluttering, and stomach working on a gymnastic routine. A hand slaps over his own plush lips. He looks

around nervously

"Yes, or do you prefer…" Subaru laughs softly, leaning closer again to whisper, voice warm and low. "My Love."

"Th-that's…" Kamui scrambles for words, he gives himself some distance and cradles his hand to the heated ear. Cherry red cheeks darken further and further. His beloved experimenting with pet names left him more affected than he'd ever imagined. "I guess I...don't particularly mind either…" An understatement, the words made him want to hide away, bury his heated face somewhere, and at the same time, there was that maddening dive further into the warmth.

Denying his obvious reactions wouldn't help matters. If anything… it might just lead Subaru to be extra amorous. To carry him around the home, lavish him with kisses, and enthusiastically tell him everything that made Kamui adorable, beautiful, angelic, or so on…

"S-so...you can...say as you like…" Kamui murmured the string of words. He was lucky Subaru was so genuine and sweet. His beloved's words had quite the effect on him. It would be far too painful to hear such things only to find them insincere. Yet, shimmering, dark gold and emerald eyes, only confirm these words are spoken with so much raw love. Enough to take one's breath away.

"But that's only because it's you, Subaru," Kamui professes, whisper-soft. Violet-blue eyes glanced to the side to meet amorous, and bright eyes. The curl to those rose-pink lips, makes Kamui's features melt, relax entirely.

'I'm only going to be falling further for you, aren't I?' Kamui awakens to the realization

Subaru glances around for a second down the aisle. His chest was already aching from those words. If they were at home, well the response wouldn't be quite this innocent. A hand quickly cups the back of Kamui's neck pulling him into a discreet sweet kiss.

Still, it'll be okay because...

"Su-Subaru!" Kamui yelps, hands curling against tight around the cart handle. His body had to lean slightly upon the cart to keep from slipping.

Because I have a feeling you'd catch me… Kamui ponders fondly. Though he'd absolutely melt in those same arms, making walking again a problem. His mind drifts off a bit missing the face leaning closer to his own.

"What are you thinking of?" Subaru voices, airy and warm.

Kamui flashes bright pink again. The dust of color on his cheeks never fails to keep his beloved's eyes off of him.

"Nothing -" He clearly lies and decides to push further down the aisle, quickening his step. "We ah-should get our ingredients soon. You're hungry right?" Kamui adds on, cutely. He tilts his head slightly.

Subaru laughs softly. A hand clasps over Kamui's hand clamped over the cart handle. The few moments of actual shopping, pass by quickly.

---

Connections

Kamui's head has been in the clouds the past few days.

Now, wasn't the time to think over this stuff. He was spending the day studying and hanging out with Yuzuriha and undoubtedly Inuki who had grown quite a bit.

So, Kamui came down to one of the newer cafés to meet up with his friend and possibly study a bit. Though it was doubtful his exuberant friend could go on and on about various topics outside of school.

"Kamui!~" She calls for her friend in a sweet sing-song tone. The short-haired female stands up, cheerily waving Kamui over.

Kamui flushes a bit, noticing stares in his direction, and keeps his head down.

"I'm right here," Kamui ducks his head, shushing his friend. Admirers and curious people turn to "I saw you when I first came in."

"Noooope!" Yuzuriha rolled her eyes, stretching her arms out across the table like a cat. "I was waiting for you! You totally spaced out!" She teases and playfully sticks her tongue out.

One of her hands pats down below the table. Kamui follows the movement to see the protective dog spirit curled around the girl's legs.

Kamui took a seat. As inconspicuous as possible he held a hand out flat from under the table. To everyone else here, there was nothing to see.

The wolf-like spirit gingerly moved over and nuzzled its head under Kamui's hand. He gently pets it. Bubble-gum pink lips quirked up, the motion of Inuki cutely nuzzling its face against his palm, brought out images of Subaru.

"Oh, I wonder what's on your mind~" She teases and giggles. "Blushing~"

Kamui's nose scrunched up. His eyes roll back for a second. "I have plenty of other things on my mind." He defends his obviously lovesick demeanor. It wasn't a lie, it's just thoughts of Subaru tended to bring out the most emotion.

"Is that so?" She lightly banters.

Kamui nods at this. "It is." He confirms and watches as the joyful girl stands up from her seat. It wasn't a lie, he had his school, friendships, and hobbies. Thoughts of Subaru just happened to be the thoughts that made him smile the most.

"Well anyways, we should order something!" Yuzuriha announces cheerfully. She stands up and grabs Kamui by the wrist. The cheerful girl is all but skipping towards the counter.

Kamui shakes his head, lightly moving the locks of raven hair in front of his face. The older of the two students quickly follows. They move their way towards the front of the line.

The cafe being off-campus is quiet. There's a comfort in the lack of overly enthusiastic admirers and fans nearby. There is now time and space to hang out as normal highschoolers do. It's still a bit of a novelty.

Kamui comes back with a purple and white coffee mug. It's filled to the brim with a swirl of whipped cream and chocolate syrup.

Yuzuriha has the image of a schoolgirl protagonist with her hands full with her various plates of different cookies, scones. In her other hand was her own mug of some sort of "iced coffee" that looked like a caffeinated vanilla shake.

For some reason, instead of simply asking Kamui for assistance she decided to take a bag of various desserts, holding it in her teeth. Kamui could suppress the laugh.

"Are you sure you don't need help?" He offered, obviously teasing her.

She made an indignant sound though it was muffled by the small paper bag. They were close enough to their original seats anyway. Kamui let it be. His overloaded friend plopped down first onto the soft cushioned chairs.

Kamui took his seat on the opposite end. Violet-blue eyes look over with amusement at the plethora of sugary treats on the table.

"What?" Yuzuriha followed the look. She shrugged. "It's not like it's all for me, this time…" She added the words meekly. They shared a brief laugh.

"I'm bringing some treats for when I see Kusanagi later today!" Her face had a certain glow to it. She beamed, soft brown eyes shimmered reflecting a hue of a dark blue across them.

"You really care for him a lot," Kamui noted, observing the amusing spray of pink on his friend's cheeks. It was nice to not be the one flustered, for once, though he doubted it would stay that way.

"Of course I do, Kamui," Yuzuriha answered surely but there was something a bit bashful, vulnerable about the way she looked down. Her face lifted as she perked up at her own proclamation. "I love him!"

The easy profession of love had Kamui flushing for her. How could someone admit that so easily? It was hard enough just answering yes or no questions about how he felt.

"I can really see that," Kamui says kindly. There's a bit of concern and pain clouding violet-blue orbs. His energetic friend had an even bigger age-gap with the one she loved than between Kamui and Subaru. Of course, Kamui's own age-gap came to mind but...even still it somehow worked well for them. Maybe even making their relationship even more special.

The feline-like girl shakes her head catching the slight frown and furrowed eyebrows. She waves a hand very close to Kamui's face. Her palm lays out flat, signaling a clear "stop."

"You don't need to worry! I mean I'm not setting any expectations. I know it's not quite mutual," She declares a little bittersweet. Though to her benefit, the older man clearly loved her in some sense, risking his life for her despite their roles in the promised year. Her precious Inuki curls up by her legs, nuzzling them. The comfort is given and warmth from feeling strong first-love lights her up again. "Not yet," She adds hopefully, the age-gap now still a hurdle, but it didn't mean that was a forever thing.

"But just loving someone, like this, makes me really happy! Of course, I'd be super happy when and if my feelings are returned but…" Her lips tremble a bit, memories and fun outings with her first love resurface.

"Seeing the person I love smiling and no longer involved with everything we went through last year, it's a really good feeling," She finishes at last. There remain such sincerity and honesty within her glistening eyes.

"I'm glad then," Kamui responds, a little taken aback and a little relieved. He ponders if he would manage to maintain happiness and his feelings if they were unrequited.

Thankfully, this would be the first love where he could have the person he loves beside him. Loving him sweetly, being at his side, and always coming back. Maybe that was enough.

Although having those feelings returned, the feeling brought out an overwhelming tightness and warmth in his chest. Something in his heart had been set free, and this time a future together was all he could see.

She can be really strong. Kamui ponders, studying his friend's flustered face as she imagines future (likely romantic) possibilities with her first love.

And kind-hearted, I want her to find her happiness.

"Yuzuriha," Kamui calls her name all of a sudden.

"Yes? " Yuzuriha responds curiously, still in a little dreamlike daze.

"I-I am really glad I know you, that we're friends," Kamui admits awkwardly and sheepish.

"Where did that come from?" Yuzuriha's eyes widened at the abashed admission. Kamui's eyes looked a bit confused, looking at his friend like he maybe said something wrong. It still brought a smile to her.

Certainly, unexpected but really sweet. There was an urge to pet the top of the Kamui's head.

"I'm glad to!" She returned joyfully, before continuing to reach for her sugary drink. Her expression starry-eyed at the first taste.

Kamui gently smiles. I'm lucky I have people who care for me. When he gets back home, he'll have to find a way to express that same gratitude for the man he fell so deeply for.

---

Losses…

Staring blankly at the off-white ceiling, Kamui sat by a large wooden table. The spacious dorm room was quite similar to the one they had shared before. It essentially was home in itself, complete with a kitchen, dining room, bedroom, and full bathrooms.

The walls were a soft blue color. Portraits hung alongside a floral decorative display. The bottom of each frame and display has a golden CLAMP academy symbol printed on it. A student's name appeared to be signed in the bottom corner.

This academy certainly did have among the most talented students. The decor looked like something you'd find in a ritzy furniture store. Lavish gold and white chairs and sofas laid out in the living room area.

"We miss you!" Yuzuriha's voice chirped. There was a clear warmth to it alongside a bit of pain, longing. Sitting beside his friend Kamui looked into the computer screen and gave a soft wave.

On the other end of the screen was their dear friend, Arashi. Her clothing mainly consists of a black school uniform or elegant but saddening black dresses. Her heart was still in a disarray but it was still able to communicate kindly and openly (at least with Yuzuriha) as Kamui had heard. Her hair neatly brushed down a flawless princess style, even this early in the morning.

Arashi remained in the same simplistic room in Mt. Koya. The elegant swordswoman did have something that caught intrigue. Amongst the plain ivory walls was a royal blue display case, hosting what appeared to be a replica of a long silver Katana with a gold handle.

There was something slightly different from Arashi's sword she once drew. The design seems a bit longer and thinner than her own.

"That looks beautiful!" Yuzuriha announced, pointing excitedly like a child at the new decor. "Did you make that?"

The long-haired brunette shook her head. There was a relieving sense of light amongst the darkness in her lives. "No, it was a gift."

There was a half-smile, but the redness around her eyes gave away her exhaustion. "I had a call from Director Imonoyama when I told him I wasn't quite ready to leave Mt. Koya. He told me he wished to send a gift for my current home...It's a replica sword of my Mother's…" The former Miko explained, calmly. There was a quirk of endearment in her lips at the mention of the gesture.

"He does know everything," Kamui thought aloud. To have that much knowledge and power. Thank god Nokoru was genuinely pure of heart, having such sincere kindness, more than most would possess. After of course, his Subaru.

"He told me the University department would always be open for me when I was ready," Arashi hushed, her eyes blinking a little dreary as she hit down on her lip.

"So that means you…" Kamui trails off a bit sadly.

Arashi nodded. "I… plan on finishing my high school studies here, with a home tutor. That's what I meant to tell you for this call."

It wasn't surprising, Arashi didn't wish to return to CLAMP academy just yet. There were plenty of bittersweet memories that came from it. She had finished the majority of her schooling, save for a semester.

Understandably, going back to the academy… the dorms, back to those memories would prove difficult.

"Aw, I guess we'll be going to different schools again after all…" Yuzuriha responded, shoulders falling back, face deflating. Her lips quickly forced a smile.

"Yuzuriha…" Arashi starts slowly, her lips turn crestfallen. Kamui tries to recall the last time he saw her truly smile. "It's just… to finish the school year." She explains softly, eyes downcast and guilty. "I'm looking into the university department for next year." She offers, though seems a bit unsure.

Yuzuriha shakes her head, wiping previously unnoticed tears. "No, I get it! Of course, you'd want to be there longer…" In the place where he grew up. "But I'll see you next year right?"

It had to be tough for Yuzuriha all the same….the dorm was far too big for one person.

Apparently, though the director saw to this (as he did with everyone especially female students) and had talked about arranging roommates for her, students she personally wished to stay with.

"So… will you still be able to meet up with everyone this summer?" Yuzuriha asked cautiously, not wanting to seem too eager. Her coffee-brown eyes fogged up with emotion. Tears were suppressed.

Kamui tried, awkwardly, to provide comfort to his friend. He gently clasped a hand upon his trembling friend's shoulder. She looked towards him with widening eyes, surprised at the action. Those eyes soon settled with a fondness for her precious friend.

Those who remained of the Dragon's of Heaven alongside Kusanagi gathered (the latter clearly Nekoi Yuzuriha's influence). had agreed to occasional gatherings. The more reserved members had abstained so far. Kamui himself prefers one on one meetups to group gatherings.

"I will, " Arashi's eyes softened a bit, and nodded. "I plan on coming over to Tokyo to visit this summer."

With Arashi coming back to visit for this gathering. It didn't seem right to miss the reunion. Busy schedules aside the six remaining seals would all be there to come to visit. This would be the first time where everyone could gather, and seek solace with one another.

"That's right!" The admission made Yuzuriha beam. "Ah, I'm so excited! There are so many cute cafes and shops on campus! I can't wait to go with you! And we'll all have a group meetup!"

Kamui shakes his head. A fond curl springs upon his lips. "You never change," He mumbles quietly to himself.

With ears perking like a curious Kitten his friend hears the words and turns to her friend. Yuzuriha catches that look and grins. "Oh-oh! and Arashi!" She shouts quite louder than intended into the laptop speaker.

"Y-yes? " The reserved woman nearly jumps back from her seat.

"Kamui~ has something to tell you!" Yuzuriha cheers in a sing-song voice.

Icy Violet-blue eyes glare in her direction. 'I never agreed to this.'

"Oh… alright then?" Arashi's eyes widened, a little bewildered. Her lips pressed together, eyes glowing with sympathy in Kamui's direction. Her former leader was squirming in his seat. It was slightly amusing, in contrast to the earliest memories she shared with her far less tame leader.

This image suited Kamui much better. That paired with the glow in his expression, light growing in his eyes even through the embarrassment.

"I don't know what you're referring to…" Kamui mumbles, eyes darting to the table. His friend only continues to grin and giggle further. "Yuzuriha!" Kamui spits out her name like a warning.

The brown-eyed girl simply shook her head and rolled her eyes. "Fine…" she sighs. Kamui feels tension leave him.

"I'll just say it then!" Though it only returns tenfold. "Subaru and Kamui are finally dating now!" The short brunette clapped her hands together, announcing the news with vibrance as though it were her own.

Kamui bit down on his lip. His violet eyes refused to make contact with either girl, as his eyes drifted anywhere else.

"Ah…" Arashi paused "Is that...?" True. Unsure if it's their mutual friend teasing or not she waits for some retort of denial from Kamui.

When none came, and Kamui only flushed wildly, it sank in. He gave the quickest of nods. Denying his love and connection with Subaru while it was 'official' seemed wrong. Maybe it was bound to come out but still...Kamui much preferred a warning before this.

"Well, that's very good news then," Arashi admits, there seems to be a little relief, relaxing worry lines in her features. The two young men had been dancing around their feelings it seems for some time now.

"Ah… sorry I don't know what I'm supposed to say for something like this… congratulations?" She tries out awkwardly.

Kamui holds up a hand and smiles. "There's no need to worry about that…" A little pang stung in his chest, Arashi had lost so much but he could see the genuine compassion gleaming in her eyes. Despite her pain, she wanted to express such kindness towards him.

"But… thank you," Kamui felt his heart sink. Arashi's heart and soul were with her first and possible last love.

There was a dedication to come from that. Kamui felt his stomach churn during the video call.

'I've lost Kotori and Fuuma…' It didn't seem like a possibility to even be breathing after that. Did that mean his love wasn't as strong? If he was able to fall again…

'I loved them more than anything…' He shouldn't have more of his heart left to give.

Yet, again Subaru proved that wrong. Every day this feeling grew a little stronger, and past pains healed that little bit more.

Through all the pain, Kamui had one constant in his life. A presence that made him come back to life, to face reality. But he wasn't alone and was held tightly each step of the way.

Subaru. Was there ever an option not to fall for you? Kamui ponders with a quirk of his lips. He licks them, eyes sparkling and filled to the brim with adoration.

"I'm happy for you, Kamui," Arashi's voice quietly professes. Her lips curled to a half-smile, but there was a sincerity to that.

"Thank you," Kamui expresses. To be able to say that through her own pain, and truly mean it. You're incredibly strong. "I really appreciate it."

---

~Family~

Visiting the elegant Sumeragi estate. Subaru smiled cordially talking with some distant relatives and clan members.

Many of which looked up at him with reverence. No matter how long he had been in this profession and took over as head of his clan, it never was easy to get used to.

Elegant fields of flowers and crystal clear koi ponds brought out a sense of serenity. Nostalgia came while seeing a small black cat waiting at the front gates of the household.

Subaru smiled, kneeling to pat the tiny stray on the head. "You look familiar," Subaru cooed fondly to the friendly feline. The cat leaned up, nuzzling the top of its head against the Onmyoji's hand.

Nostalgia overwhelmed, images of a black and white spotted cat he saw growing up appeared. Subaru swears he sees a spirit version of that same cat. Perhaps the small cat was in the same family line. One drawn to the Sumeragi estate.

"Mrow!" The black cat voiced, a tad upset. Its nose scrunching up at the retreating hand while its furry white eyebrows seemed to lower.

Subaru softly chuckled. He brought his hand back to gently stroke fingers under the fluffy chin. The purring sensation brought a tender smile. The cat muzzled and leaned its tiny head into every little touch. "And you remind me of the person I love," His smile melted as he told the cat who glanced up at him curiously.

The black feline seemed to have grown attached, following the clan leader up to the doorstep of the traditional Japanese style "Minka" house, sliding doors and all. The several storied light brown and white home was surrounded by tranquil greenery.

"Grandmother, I'm here," Subaru calls politely, as he approaches an all too familiar door, knocking on it.

"Yes, I'm aware," The older woman announced her presence, coming to the front door, unlocking and sliding it open. Despite being 'confined to a wheelchair, she looked anything but. There was always a great strength around her. "Welcome. Subaru," Her features relaxed at the sight of her sweet grandson, looking a bit at peace, a smile on his lips, before this year had been missing for nearly a decade. "I can't sense your presence, ever since you were a little boy. Your aura has always been one of a kind." As was the case with Hokuto. Is left out.

"Ah, I see your senses are as sharp as they've always been," Subaru rubs at the back of his neck. Hopefully, his aura didn't make him too obvious or reveal too much about himself. Granted his grandmother (correctly) guessed Subaru was deeply in love so...maybe it was something the family could see.

"Your natural aura has only gotten brighter these past few visits." She tells him, looking up to see defined and eased features of her precious grandchild. A strong white and violet aura surrounded his form. A once rare light shines brightly amongst the familiar emerald and newly found gold. There's a shimmer to his eyes, truly alive, free. "I trust you've been quite well since your last visit."

Subaru swallows at the admission. Suddenly, he's sixteen again, with his feelings being seen through, thoughts of his precious person read. The woman smiled serenely, her long white hair shifted slightly as she shook her head.

"I assume that the same person is the reason for this," She says knowingly, so calm.

"Th-that is…" Subaru gulps. He feels the gaze on him, unable to turn away. Much like a child, he'd been 'found out. His deepening bond with his beloved made it impossible to hide.

This time she wasn't warning against a dangerous relationship forming. Quite the contrary. Subaru isn't sure he remembers seeing his grandmother ever look so at ease, her natural aura soothing indigo, depicting the sheer wisdom of her soul.

"Have you forgotten your training already?" She laughs softly, shaking her head. "He must be incredible to make you falter this easily."

Incredible doesn't even begin to describe him. Subaru feels his thoughts screaming at him. A dreamy curl of his lips formed, his mind conjured images of his beautiful boyfriend. And all those sweet kisses they exchanged earlier this morning.

The door to the lavish home is opened more as Subaru steps inside. The sleek black cat purrs, following through and rubbing up against its new favorite person's legs.

"Ah…with that," Subaru blushes quickly, willing down the deep red to a strain of pink. He begins, clearing his throat. "You would be right again."

Subaru coughs into his hand. He rolls back his shoulders and straightens his posture as though going under inspection. With someone as astute as the former Sumeragi head, he might as well be.

"And it seems animals are just as drawn to you as ever," She laughs again, holding a pale hand to her mouth. Her eyes dart down towards the black cat brushing up against Subaru's long slender legs. Its tail wrapped around an ankle, while a small head leaned up to nuzzle against him.

"I guess so, " Subaru bashfully scratches at his cheek. "This cat has been following me." He confirms and looks amused at the friendly feline, brushing up against him.

Good-naturedly, the older woman maneuvers over and reaches her hand down. Her pale hand brushes at the top of the little furry head. A small dot of white is spotted right beside its left ear.

"Well, sure enough, we can scrounge up something for the little one." She offers, kindly. She easily moves down the hallway, never one to be dependent upon others. Subaru nods at this closing the door behind him.

The familiar pair pass by a few of the older woman's attendants down the hallway. Even if she was still quite powerful, Subaru felt a bit of relief. His grandmother remained vigilant with her role and work amongst the Sumeragi clan. Her not having to live alone, helped his peace of mind.

Life was too lonely as is. Subaru was glad she agreed to allow other clan members to stay with her for companionship. Of course, being the former head, there were already attendants and those eagerly willing to help with anything needed.

The elderly woman led Subaru back to a familiar kitchen. The decor hadn't changed since Subaru was a small child. Soft pastels and white colors brought on a sense of serenity.

Purrrr. Prrrrrrr. Subaru lightly chuckles, feeling a sleek fluffy body brushing across his legs over and over again.

"You're certainly popular," his grandmother fans her fingers in front of her lips. There's a hint of amusement in her eyes, as the small cat continued weaving through Subaru's legs. It followed its new favorite person all the way through the kitchen and towards the fridge.

"Hopefully, your Kamui isn't the jealous type." She lightly bangers, tone still even and relaxed. There's a breath of relief to see emotions coming through on once numb features. A pink flush springs on her grandson's cheeks. A reaction, Subaru hadn't sported for far too this year had changed this entirely.

"A-ah! Grandmother!" Subaru yelps, cheeks flustering red. "It's just a cat and…" Subaru clutches a hand to his chest. The thought of a pouty, jealous Kamui, wanting more attention than a pet, was almost too much to handle. He'd have to thoroughly convince Kamui how terribly precious and adorable he was. Way too cute. And way too dangerous for Subaru's heart to handle.

His grandmother doesn't suppress the breathy laughs. She watches with interest as her grandson spaces out, lips curled up and lovesick.

They enter further into the kitchen, a white cabinet placed over the sparkling marble countertops. Subaru's grandmother paused as though in thought before turning. Thin pale hands opened lower cabinets, revealing a display of plates, cups, and bowls.

She grasps for a small white plate. Then whilst walking towards the fridge within she brings out a carton. It's full of what appears to be some milk alternative, with a label printed 'low-lactose on the side. Perhaps animals had been visiting here more often than Subaru realized? The saucer is handed to Subaru alongside the carton of milk.

"I feel it would be best if you take this," his grandmother says, amused to see the cat's eyes sparkling up at Subaru. The feline licks its lips at the sight of the milk product being poured. Bright feline eyes follow the sight of white pouring out, whilst not leaving his beloved.

Subaru fills the small saucer with the creamy milk, seeing the feline beside him licking its lips.

One of the Sumeragi attendants, who had been carefully watching the movements, throughout the kitchen appears. She had a look of uneasiness, as though it was improper for two people of such a high status to have to make their own tea.

The formerly dressed woman, bows before the former and current Sumeragi head. "No, please. Allow me to prepare the tea." She insists, politely. "You two should enjoy and have a seat."

"If you insist," His grandmother smiles brightly at this and lightly laughs. She shakes her head a bit. "Thank you."

Subaru and his grandmother took their leave. The small cat came in tow, brushing up against Subaru's legs each step of the way. At the back porch, Subaru kneeled placing the saucer of milk for the cat, who lapped it up eagerly. Subaru smiled at this petting the cat once more before heading over towards the table.

Properly Subaru kneeled at one end of the round tea table. He thought briefly to his beloved, wondered if he ever did things like this with family… though it seemed his upbringing was quite different.

A sudden image came of Kamui uncomfortably fussing with his feet under his hips. 'Maybe he'd keep biting his lip in that frustratingly cute way…' Subaru's mind continues to envision all too desirable scenarios.

His mind wandered a bit. Kamui coming to visit. Adjusting to the formal setting and seating arrangements.

Imagination kept running rampant in the Onmyoji's mind. His eyes stared off further towards the calming garden seen through open back doors.

'I need a minute… to get some fresh air. " His fantasy Kamui would shyly admit. His feet going numb under him, making him nearly lose his balance. The smaller male would clutch to his beloved's side.

Subaru beamed at the idea. He'd take Kamui's hands, showing him every beautiful flower in the garden, and take him past the koi ponds.

Going far enough out by the flowering trees, they would have their privacy. Subaru would spin Kamui around so they came face to face. He'd pull his love tightly in an embrace. Beautiful sleek arms would wrap around the taller male's neck and their lips would meet so serene…. And….

"Subaru?"

"Yes!" Subaru squeaked, voice crackling as he attempted to gather himself.

"You're quite flushed," His grandmother tells him with some bemusement. "Are you alright?

"O-oh, yes. I'm sorry. I'm fine." Subaru assures ducking his head down. He'd have to save that fantasy for another time.

His grandmother sitting across from him held a warm smile. She looked over her precious grandson with a sense of wonder, as though she still couldn't grasp his presence here.

Truly being here. Not just going in and out for work. Not existing but living. It has been far too long.

The same attendant returns moments after with a freshly brewed pot of tea. Subaru nods in regards to thanks as a teacup, lined with painted violets is brought in front of him.

They're nowhere near as beautiful as his eyes but… it was pretty and brought a curl to Subaru's lips.

A cool breeze blew through the back gardens, the traditional sliding doors opened to reveal the lush greenery, a sectioned-off pathway, and sparkling blue ponds.

"There's light…" Subaru turns at the sound of the words. His grandmother hid her smile behind the floral teacup.

"Your light is back, " She clarifies. Subaru's eyes raise for a moment before his cheeks heat and light up again. "You seem brighter each time I see you."

"O-oh, is that so…? " Subaru stumbles, grasping the teacup to his lips. The tea soothes his nerves and calms his senses from babbling oh.

"It is," She confirms. Unsure whether or not to disclose her recent report. "He must be incredible. Not only for making you lose composure so easily, but making you smile like that ."

"Ah-ah that's -" Subaru coughs into his closed hand. He quietly voices his thoughts. "Incredible… doesn't begin to describe him." Green and gold eyes widen at his own admission. Subaru buries part of his face in his hand.

"I can tell you're quite taken with him," She smiles wryly. Honestly, that sense of love was far stronger than that out even the closest couples she's encountered.

Her thin fingers tap the rim of the teacup. Subaru finds himself with a melting smile, attempting to conceal how far he's fallen pressing his lips closed. His eyes were sparkling with adoration.

Slowly, a new conversation was breached. One intended for this visit. "Perhaps, it's overbearing but… I did a reading on you recently."

Subaru winces at the word 'reading'. With a dry mouth, he swallows. His grandmother's forewarning stinging in his mind, even to this day. The words he'd always commit to memory.

'Do not let the cherry blossoms seduce you, Subaru. Never. Never allow them to confuse your mind and heart.' He couldn't stop himself when it came to Seishirou...

But things had changed, it could only be better than the last one, right? If not he'd find a way, whatever it took to build a future beside Kamui. One where he would spend a lifetime making his love happy.

"Please, don't worry," The older woman notices this and grasps her worried grandson's hand. "It's not at all a fortune involving any pain and sadness. Surely, you've had enough of that for a lifetime. It's quite the contrary."

"O-oh…" Subaru hides his stuttering behind the floral cup, taking brief sips. His eyes quiver at prior memories, but there's a continued warmth of new memories made that makes him relax.

"You have quite a favorable union ahead of you," She tells him so simply.

Subaru blinks. "That's good," He says without thinking. Hopefully, they could drop it here and move on to simpler topics.

A favorable union… wait… union?

Union as in… marriage?!

"G-Grandmother," He clears his throat, barely stopping himself from choking from the sip of his tea. "Something like that… is far far too soon. I mean it would be up to Kamui agreeing to something like that… off in the future, he's still so young and we've only just gotten together so…" Subaru feels himself shrinking, shoulders closing in. Of course, the fortune could be up to interpretation...but surely it meant he and Kamui had a hopeful life together. His face burned scarlet, and his heart wouldn't stop singing at the very possible future ahead.

"Your fates are entwined." His grandmother holds a knowing smile. She covers her lips to take another sip of tea, suppressing the curl to her lips.

"I…." who was he kidding? "I can't deny that makes me really… happy," Subaru admits, the idea sinks in. He honestly can't remember the last time he'd use that word to describe himself. If ever. Maybe as a child but… I'd fight against my fate itself if it meant keeping Kamui beside me.

"I can't begin to explain how relieved I am for you to have found that person," his grandmother acknowledges.

His fate had been entwined with Seishirou. Maybe it was a cruel fate that brought them together. That fate involves Subaru falling hard, for his first love, only to make his heart shatter.

However, his fate, his destiny had always been entwined with Kamui. To fall deeper and harder into pure love. A love that would gather each shard of his heart, build it back together, only to become stronger.

Subaru nods shyly at this. He notes the cat returning to his side once more. It curls up at his side affectionately.

"I'll have to meet him," She speaks out, with a gaze that's so terribly serious.

"I… would like that." Subaru begins slowly. "If Kamui is comfortable with it first and foremost." He insists on this, fully devoted. Subaru beams, elegant features only enhanced by the gleaming sunlight. "Then I'd be happy for you to meet the person I love the most."

---

Fire

"Um… S-Subaru?" Kamui quietly makes a plea. His boyfriend snuggled up behind him on the couch, mind preoccupied with the silky black hair threading through his fingers.

"Hm?" Subaru hums to confirm, before pressing his lips all over the back of his beloved's head. Lips trail down the side of Kamui's face, fingertips feel the ends of Kamui's hair. Kamui had been growing it out more.

The pleading tone of his precious person was unsettling. Subaru saw to this and wrapped his arms tighter around the slender waist that seemed to fit perfectly into his arms.

"C-can we… change the channel?" Kamui began a little flushed from the affection but still forlorn. He winced, voice a bit more desperate. "P-Please?"

"Oh, yeah sure," Subaru responds immediately, heart sinking at the tone. He pressed comforting kisses upon a creamy white shoulder.

He looks at the screen curiously, before quickly pressing the button turning the channel. An image of a rather nasty forest fire displays on the screen. He feels Kamui shiver in his arms.

The mere sound of the button pressed, helps Kamui ease back into his arms. There's a small moment of reprieve until both see exactly what's on screen. It's just some romance, and the actors were well…

"Hn. Subaru!" Kamui groans, hiding his face in the couch cushions.

Subaru bit back a moan, feeling Kamui's hips moving back against him. It only made it worse when he saw what was on screen.

Of all the timing, it had to be a sex scene. On the couch no less. Quickly the up button on the remote is clicked, going on to a (thankfully) less reactive art show.

"I'm sorry!" Subaru says more out of habit than anything. His mind flashes to his earlier years, bowing his head while on the phone, and the scolding he got from Hokuto.

"It's not something you did," Kamui mumbles, not looking up from the couch cushion. He felt a heat pile the pit of his stomach and groans. How was it possible to be torn between two very bothersome emotions like this?

"Y-yea, I guess…" Subaru acknowledges, partway. Golden and emerald orbs fall lovingly into violet-blue. Kamui's glimmering doe-eyes shivered, turning away a little shyly before they came back.

Soothing fingertips brush over soft pale cheeks. The blush painted under them darken through each touch. They settle under a defined chin, turning Kamui's head up.

From the angle, the beautiful blush shines, but sadly it's not as long-lasting as usual. Kamui does lean his head back to help close the distance. Something is soothing with those sweet, lingering caresses between their lips. Kamui's lips meld and meet with equal passion, mimicking the movements and shifts his lover has done.

The unoccupied hand cups a slender hip, gently guiding its owner to turn around. Kamui rolls over, on his side, looking at the face of his love.

"Subaru…" Kamui whines a little softly. An emotion overwhelming him from before. Unfortunately, it wasn't a pleasant one. His glossy violet-blue eyes water up, and again wince painfully tight.

"Kamui?" Subaru notices the pain in shivering eyes and quivering lips. Dark eyelashes fall close and raven eyebrows scrunch down.

His Kamui broke out of his flustered state far quicker than usual. Subaru hadn't forgotten that trembling voice moments before, never could. There's something wrong. The trembling of lips, makes Subaru press his own to the.

"Y-yes…" Kamui answers, burying his forehead against a supporting shoulder. Hands come to rest at his lower back and behind his raven head.

"Are you okay?" Subaru questions, gently and with a usual tenderness. Kamui nuzzles against a warm neck, finding solace in the gasp it admits.

"I…" Kamui mumbles out, not looking up or leaving his hiding place.

Even though there is silence, there's no pressure to speak. Hands lovingly hold him in place. Circles and abstract shapes are traced up and down his spine. Gentle fingertips soothe him until he's essentially purring in the older man's arms.

"I…" Kamui begins, meek, finally he turns up. Violet-blue doe-eyes water, looking pleadingly to the older male. Hands caress the back of his neck and shoulder blade. The younger male suppresses a moan, biting his lip as the feeling of tension releases there. feeling.

Kamui takes an elongated breath. "M-my family…"

Subaru comforts Kamui as he can. Both his protective arms keep his beloved near, one around his waist, the other moving between his back and shoulder. They continue to embrace his beloved, squeezing him close. The hand behind his neck moves up, fingers card under the silky hair covering it. Kamui leans his head back a bit, his mind clearing a bit more at the sweet caresses.

His lips worship every inch of the beautiful face and jawline. Kamui's shaky arms return the adoring embrace. His arms wrap snugly around his boyfriend's neck. There's a fear it's too tight, an emerald eye winches slightly. Subaru never voices a complaint.

"You can tell me anything on your mind. Whatever that may be."Subaru expresses, soft and intimate, sealing their lips together for several more moments.

"I know," Kamui nods at this. His legs curl around tangle up with longer ones. There's such warmth it makes them pause for a moment falling into each other's eyes.

"You're everything to me, Kamui," He confesses through impossibly short gaps between tender little kisses.

"I…" Kamui loses his breath opening his eyes slowly.

"I want to help you however I can," Subaru vows. Kamui nibbles his lower lip, feeling even their toes curl together. Their bodies pressed as close as possible without fully becoming one.

There's an intense light blaring in gold and emerald eyes, which makes Kamui suppress a shiver. It was as if he'd do anything to protect him from the pain of this world.

'He probably would...It's Subaru.' Kamui reflects on the thought, readily disentangling and entangling his legs with longer ones. He runs his foot up his partner's leg, smiling at the little shiver.

Kamui settles back to another intimate position. He rests his head upon a throbbing chest and listens to the increasing beats. Kamui tangles them in a way where he can feel his beloved's long leg cuddled in between his own. This action only leads them to be pulled closer.

Subaru bites back a groan, barely managing to stop himself from brushing their hips together.

"W-what happened before…" Kamui starts shakily.

"It's alright Kamui," Subaru coos, the light in his eyes glowing much more tender than before. There's an ease with this as Kamui fully relaxes in the hold.

"It's just… with my family…" Kamui takes a deep breath, lips curling as he feels soft lips peppering his cheeks. "From my mother's side…" He continues, still shaken up.

Subaru grasps for one of the hands resting by his neck and shoulder. He pulls it to his lips and presses a kiss upon the palm. There's a sting to dual-toned eyes as he hears pained breaths and sniffles.

"Kamui," Subaru tenderly hushes his love, kissing the tip of each and every finger, whilst a hand soothingly rubs at the shaking back.

"I… didn't know much about any of my relatives… not until I first came back to Tokyo," Kamui explains, slowly, taking a few laborer breaths. "A-and… I didn't really know so much about my mother even… our family name… nor our curse."

"My sweet Kamui… I can only imagine what that's been like…" Subaru whispers, kissing every inch of Kamui's skin he can reach. All the while he holds Kamui close, as his sacred treasure. "I only wish I could do more for you."

"Subaru…" Kamui trembles a bit. His heart swells, feeling all too full. Especially, when those dual-toned eyes well up, emotions and pain, all for him. "My Subaru." Kamui mimics his love's tone perfectly, mainly because his heart is beating with that same emotion, this overwhelming need to be close, and love deeper than before.

They kiss sweetly. Kamui mentally notes he prefers discussing hard topics just as they are now. Cuddled up in an intimate hold with many kissing breaks between.

"It's everything having you here now… I've never really told anyone this…" Kamui admits, not willingly telling anyone this. Of course, Fuuma and Sorata had found out as he did by his Aunt.

"Thank you, for letting me be the one you confide in," Subaru whispers so sweetly. If Kamui's hand wasn't being loved up with countless kisses and holds, he'd bring it over his thundering heartbeat.

"Of course, It's you," Kamui mumbles, a little abashed. Each time he turns his head down he's brought back to loving eyes. The gold and emerald orbs shiver a little watery. "I feel… with you I can tell you anything."

"That makes me so happy," Subaru admits, and the little flush of pink on his cheeks makes Kamui bury his face again. His cheeks burn up against the crook of a familiar neck.

'Don't make me fall harder. I can barely handle my heart as is…'. Kamui mumbles a string of words into his love's neck. "...Subaru~" He murmurs while being hopelessly loved up.

"I feel the same with you," Subaru confesses, he embraces his love further, kisses his temples, not going further lest he gets caught up in his own emotions. 'No, now it is about Kamui. Making him feel safe.'

"I'm glad…" Kamui shines, a sense of honor and importance overwhelms his senses.

"I… my mother's maiden name… is Magami."

Subaru's eyes widen only slightly at the admission. The stories of such a powerful family, being in relation to his beloved did seem to fit. But…

"H-have you ever heard of them…?" Kamui partly hopes, not wanting to divulge so much if possible.

"I've heard some stories growing up," Subaru admits, bowing his head.

"The Magami clan was known for being… quite influential and sought after. We have... "Shadow Sacrifices" that could… I guess from what my Aunt told me, take on others' suffering and misfortune." Kamui breathes out with a lengthy, bitter, and pained laugh that follows. "To this day I don't understand all of it but…"

"I have my own preordained fate. But… with my Aunt and my m-mo-" Kamui's eyes bulge, his body starts shaking in protective arms.

"It's alright Kamui," Subaru quickly responds. He holds the boy's chin up to look at him. "Look at me… breathe. We can break here if you need to."

"Breathe with me," Subaru pressed their foreheads together. An elongated inhale begins, and he listens for Kamui to follow suit. Their eyes close for a moment before Subaru guides Kamui to exhale slowly through his mouth.

"There, just like that," Subaru approves, relief flooding his senses as he feels Kamui relax more into his hold. "You're perfect, Kamui."

There's a little squeak that follows up from that. Still, Kamui follows along, breathing for a few more seconds? Moments? Before he returns to a sense of calm.

"You're the perfect one," Kamui mumbles, a little sheepish. He dives his face into the older man's shirt right after speaking the words. Subconsciously, he starts breathing in his loving protector's scent and melts.

"I think it's easier talking like this," Kamui admits, a little flushed.

"Then by all means," Subaru voices, earning a cute little kiss over where his heart would be. "Stay as long as you like." He breaths in a deeper voice, making his love shiver and keep even closer.

"I well… with my mother. She was my or… no," Kamui brushes his temples against the firm chest. Lulling heartbeats ease him to continue. "The world's s-sacrifice… so when the time came… and I… got older. It was her time to…."

Kamui doesn't finish, his lips continue trembling. Hot drops of emotion leave clear stains upon the soft white shirt. Loving fingers card through his hair.

"I see…" Subaru doesn't press him further. Never has and certainly doesn't seem one to change from that. Arms only hug him tighter, squeezing the trembling body within steady and protective holds.

"Y-yeah…. She went on to tell me this was 'her fate' and that I needed to head to Tokyo to fulfill my own…"

"The promised year." Subaru surmised. Kamui bites his lip and nods. Fingers fan out through messy locks out hair, Kamui releases a pleased sigh. Lips pepper the crown of his head.

"S-so when… that time came. She sacrifices herself… for the earth, for me… but one day, coming back from school... I saw her…" Kamui's eyes shut tightly.

Subaru continues brushing his hands upon the trembling body and soft raven locks. Kamui is squeezed extra snug when his eyes begin to pour emotion once more.

"And well…" Kamui trembles again... "I saw her...caught up in flames alongside our home. I could scream and cry and…"

"Kamui…"

"And still, no matter what I could do or try, n-nothing changed… so ever since then… I've been…" Kamui's voice turned hoarse, as he attempted to speak through painful sobs. "An-and It f-felt as though I could barely move...s-so so helpless…"

"I'm so sorry," Subaru expresses lips breathing words against pale temples. "I can only imagine your pain...and while I can't fully understand it myself." There's no sense of pity or obligation, Kamui looks up to see genuine tears flowing in his love's eyes. "I will always be at your side, to help you however I can…"

Through sniffles, a broken cry emerges from trembling lips. "S-Subaru...how can you be so ...so so kind like this?" Kamui shakes his head. "Having you here is everything to me… I guess it's like sometimes things like… fires… set me off… it's like I'm back in Okinawa again, unable to do so much as move a step forward."

"My Kamui," Subaru embraces his tenderhearted love tightly. Moving both arms around his beloved's body. In a fluid movement, Subaru turns to lay flat on his back. Kamui is easily lifted and placed on top

"I love you so so much, Kamui." Subaru professes. The younger feels his heart stir and glances up. His body rests right on top of his beloved. Hands curled into his beloved's wrinkling shirt.

Gradually, the smaller male leans up just a bit. Kamui shakily leans his head down, kissing slowly, shakily upon tender lips. Every touch and action is reciprocated.

"Love you…too" Kamui murmurs into the other's lips "So damn much." Exhausted and shaky, Kamui indulges in another languid kiss, before burying his face where his hands have been. He listens for that lulling heartbeat, one that seems to beat, strong and sincere.

"Subaru…" Kamui begins again, his mind going numb under all the affection.

"I…" Gurgle. Though cheeks flustered for a new source of embarrassment. His stomach had its own ideas to voice aloud.

Subaru softly chuckles at this.

Kamui leans up blushing cherry-red. "You're adorable," Subaru confesses, making his love go right back to hiding his face. Still neither can fight the curl on their lips.

"I'll order us something." Subaru insists. Kamui presses his hands firmly on the older man's chest.

"Thank you… but…" Kamui stops him from moving further. "Not just yet."

---

Second Date ~Bookshop and Cafe ❤️💕💙 ~

"You look cute," Subaru compliments wistfully. The curl to his lips only increases further up for each shade of pink on his beloved's cheeks. Shimmering eyes, look Kamui up and down with great approval. "Really cute." He hushes closer, faces just centimeters away.

Kamui makes a mild mewling sound, feeling breath on his lips. A little winded, he leans forward for a quick peck as though drawn by gravity itself. The smaller male, turns a little to the side, eyes downcast and abashed.

"I-I've worn these clothes before though…" Kamui mumbles. His fingers play with the neckline of the lavender v-neck shirt. The ends of the top hangover casual yet chic denim shorts ending right above his knee.

Subaru stepped forward and beamed at this. "I wasn't simply to the clothes, love," He elaborates, cupping his love cheek. "Though they're also quite cute on you." With a slight tilt, Subaru presses a sweet kiss on Kamui's lips. He relishes in the gasp as he licks the seam of his love's lips to part.

Kamui returns the affectionate gesture. They kiss. Their lips keep moving wildly to go deeper, with more passion than he expected, right before they were to head out. Languid and tender, their lips brush and meld together, meeting again and again. Cheeks flush at the audible sounds of their kissing amongst the otherwise quiet household.

"Of course, your outfit is adorable," Subaru presses a sweet kiss to his lips. Kamui pouts as teasing and addictive lips pull away. With a hand on the back of his boyfriend's neck, Kamui leans on his tiptoes and kisses him soundly again.

"Thank you…" Kamui starts seeing a pleased gleam in his beloved's eyes.

"You look really good," Kamui expresses, eyes sparkling with a little mischief. "Incredibly attractive…" There's a shimmer of amusement as he notices his sweet boyfriend blushing slightly.

He's so shy with compliments. Kamui thinks very fondly, kissing him soundless again just for bringing that fluttering feeling. "You always do."

Subaru hums into the kiss. The vibration and warm breaths make Kamui melt into the taller man's arms. His own loop around broad shoulders, kissing softer and softer until they settle in a warm embrace.

"Thank you," Subaru returns.

'Of course. It's not just the outfit.' Kamui thinks. The sunlight seems to shine brilliantly, highlighting already elegant features.

Violet-blue eyes take in over the form-fitting black pants and a dark green button-down. The short sleeves expose strong, lean muscle. Kamui's eyes entrance upon that. His hands move down on their own accord caressing the lean muscles on the way down. There's a lingering feeling of his head lying upon that addictive warmth.

Emerald-gold eyes sparkle with bemusement. Kamui looks and feels so curiously. "I..." He shakes his head, quickly retreating his explorative hand. "I'm sorry!

"You can touch me wherever you'd like," Subarubreathes, absentmindedly before flushing painfully hot. He shook his head quickly. It wasn't a lie...but not intended to be out like that.

"Subaru!~" Kamui's eyes widen, looking even more doe-shaped and irresistible. The squeak in his voice makes it hard to focus, better clarify.

"Oh, w-what I meant was...it's fine because..." Subaru curses his own stumbling. A tender hand caresses heated cheeks. "I love your touch."

Kamui ducks his head. He dives in burying his face into his boyfriend's arm, groaning. The hand previously holding Kamui's cheek is taken captive. "I love you."

The confession earns Kamui a sweet, lingering kiss. Subaru whispers embarrassingly sweet words of love into heated ears. There's only pure warmth between them as they continue, unhurried and tender.

"We should probably get going," Subaru speaks as they slowly part. He nearly regrets his words, forgetting to get going he'd have to stop feeling Kamui's lips upon him. Yet, Kamui's dreamy smile makes him purely feel bliss.

His younger love is made to break out of his trance and the beautiful blush makes it all worth it. Beautiful violet-blue eyes widen and darken a bit recalling exactly what slipped out from his lover's lips.

"Oh. R-right..." Kamui speaks so earnestly. He attempts to turn back towards the door when a hand grasps his arm...

Swiftly, pulling Kamui back, his lips are taken captive. A deep lingering kiss follows up.

There's a thought they might not be able to make it out the door. Not kissing whenever they wanted to, as they did at home, felt rather difficult. Although they do make it out the door moments after, eager for the time together in a new environment.

There's a relishing feeling whenever Kamui takes his hand. Gentle smiles, and matching lovesick eyes, swirl with a light that seems to turn brighter by the day. Warmth spreads, as their hands stay linked even as they go into town.

Violet-blue eyes turn to steel and cold, glaring at anyone who gives what he seems a disapproving look their way.

The majority either don't notice or find themselves captivated. The pair turns heads, and Subaru's personal admirers earn a nasty glare and scowl. One Subaru never had seen firsthand before.

Part of this was bemusing, seeing another side of his love. But then something heats up in his chest at the realization. Kamui only looked at him with gentle, and loving eyes.

"What's wrong?" Subaru asks entirely smitten on the potential answers that follow. His cheeks brighten as his lips curl and eyes soften considerably.

"It's just I hate seeing…all those looks when..." The love-sick teen looks frustrated down at his free hand. He clenches it tightly, as his eyebrows furrowed together. "You're mine" Kamui murmurs, quietly, crestfallen lips.

Subaru has to bite inside his cheek to suppress from grinning in a way that would be misread. He pieces together his love's thoughts. Kamui was just so…

A discreet kiss presses to the side of his head. Leaning lower he whispers. "I'm all yours."

"Y-you..." Kamui stops, blinking, sparkling eyes stare up lovingly. "Yes…" He says dazed, a little burst of confidence flooding his senses.

Golden - white rays of sun cast down brilliantly over beautiful features on the younger man's face. This only led his boyfriend to lose his breath, heart hammering as his mouth hung ajar.

Kamui tugged on his hand on his own. A sense of confidence came over, seeing his love lose composure with him like this. And only him. "Let's go."

With an insistent Kamui leading the way forward, it was moments until they arrived at the lavish CLAMP academy Bookshop.

"I've come here with Yuzuriha and Keiichi before," Kamui mentions quietly. His cheeks flush seeing a long arm already stretching out to get the door for him.

'Always so sweet.' Kamui presses his lips together, smiling meekly. They walk into the expansive bookshop. Violet-blue eyes glance to see the taller male's gaze shifting all-around curiously.

There was a sparkle in dual-toned eyes. "CLAMP academy certainly goes all out." The store is far more reminiscent of a castle, spacious wise than a shop.

"They do," Kamui agrees. "With events, they go overboard." He mumbles softly.

"Welcome back," A greeting comes from a friendly voice. From the front counters two more students, the college agreed and preppy dressed, wave at Kamui.

Kamui ducks his head in acknowledgment. He waves softly.

The worker beams with a brilliant smile, his features more feminine than not, long glossy teal hair ran down to his neck. A high-school-aged boy, shorter and leaner than Kamui walks towards them. He seems to beam as he turns to Kamui. "Is this him?"

Subaru's eyes shift to his love with bemusement. He suppressed a little smirk, knowing Kamu talked about him.

"And right, this is Nakamura Aoi," Kamui introduces, gesturing towards the shy boy who stretches his arm. "We have several classes together."

"Ah…and~" Kamui begins and gestures with a wave towards his significant other. Who seems all too pleased at the moment. "This is Subaru-er..." He pauses, belatedly realizing not everyone would just refer to him by the first name as he did. "Sumeragi Subaru."

The taller male graciously extends a hand to the petite student. The boy pauses for a moment looking at Kamui a little dreamily, before shaking his head. At last, they shake hands cordially.

Though there's a protective sense in the way Subaru steps right at Kamui's side. Not overly so, but enough to be aware of just how popular his beloved really was. Though again, this student has not pressed further from shy admiring glances. There wasn't any need to be upset.

"It's nice to meet you," Aoi adds sweetly. "I hear a lot about you from Kamui." He teases, with a wry smile on his lips. There's a sense of joy seeing the way the pair across from him interacts.

Kamui's cheeks bloom a beautiful rose pink, and the taller male turns to him with sincere devotion. Sparkling eyes don't bother to look away from their favorite person. "Is that so?"

Now it was only further confirmed. The young worker nods, answering for his friend. "I'd like to chat a bit more but I have some work to get done in the back. I'll see you around."

"Sure," Kamui nods, watching as the boy leaves and disappears in one of the back rooms. His violet eyes avert. All too amused, and warm eyes attempting to devour him.

The pair have a silent moment before they walk further into the store. "What?" Kamui asks quietly, he knows the feeling of familiar eyes taking him in. When he looks back, they're bright and mirthful.

"Nothing," Subaru shakes his head. "You're quite popular."

"I guess I do come here a lot…" Kamui admits, sheepish. His gaze shifts around the store.

Cute. "You usually look at the Manga section right?" Subaru asks.

"Mhm, my friends got me into a lot of series lately," Kamui explains cutely tilting his head to the side. "Though I read a lot of books on animals and nature growing up. What about you? I mean I usually see you reading books related to work but… " He trails off, leading his date around the various aisles on the base floor.

Several racks of different magazines related to tech, sports, fashion, anime, gaming, and more line up a long wall of the store. They're sorted out so neatly by genre upon the metal display racks.

"For as long as I remember, I've been studying everything I could that's related to spirituality, exorcisms, spells, Shikigami…" Subaru trails off.

Idly he looks over a few of the magazines. Several of them have different pop idols, male and female, on the front cover in bright shimmering outfits. They're nowhere near as beautiful. Subaru further confirms, eyes gazing over his date, leaning over towards some gaming magazines. Violet-blue eyes light up at whichever issue he picks up. His lips quirk slightly. Not even close.

"So I… guess growing up you didn't have a lot of time to read whatever you wanted," Kamui surmises, eyes glancing curiously over some RPG game, with glossy art spread across both pages.

Subaru shakes his head. His lips curl further at the curious and expectant look in those violet-blue orbs. They were particularly lovely, doe-shaped, and entrancing this close. His hands reach out unconsciously to brush back a few strands behind his beloved's ears. "Between reading for work and school, not a lot, unfortunately."

"That makes sense…" Kamui goes on flipping through a few more pages of his magazine. He squirms a little feeling his beloved's eyes on him again. Shyly he does look up, meeting amorous eyes that seem to want to keep his focus. "I ah…" He Rambles mouth going a little dry. The younger of the boyfriends clears his throat. "I spent a lot of time reading when I was younger...I guess I was kind of a nerd…"

A warm hand comes to rest itself on top of Kamui's head. Subaru ruffles the raven-black hair. "It sounds more like you've always been quite intelligent."

Kamui blinks for a moment. Taking the words in, he blushes bright red. "I… ah I don't know about that…" Kamui goes on. "Mostly I read fun books. I mean I'm not exactly at the top of my classes…"

Subaru steps closer, gently grasping one end of the magazine. He holds it over their faces and presses gentle kisses on Kamui's forehead.

"Subaru!" Kamui yelps a was one thing to hold hands but kissing was way too easy to get lost in.

"You've done incredibly well with school, there's a lot you've had to catch up on. Being able to adapt so well under tough circumstances, and to only continue to improve as you have," Subaru continues, with a sense of pride, as he beams looking over at Kamui. "In my book, I consider that to be much more impressive than any class ranking."

Kamui's cheeks only fluster darker. He bites on his lip and focuses his gaze more on the magazine, taking it back from Subaru. "Well, thank you…"

"I mean that Kamui, you're…" Subaru ponders for words to best describe his love. There are too many to choose from and not one that encompasses everything. "Incredible."

Kamui lets out a tiny squeak. "N-no…. I…." Yet, the magazine is slightly taken from his hands. Their faces become shielded by the colorful book cover. Amorous lips press tightly over Kamui's, only making his flush brighter, and arguments invalid.

His beloved pulls away, acting nonchalant despite their mutually racing hearts. A few breaths are taken as the short boy buries his face. He takes even more interest, looking very closely at every page. If nothing else to calm his burning cheeks.

"I… well it helps to have a good tutor," Kamui mumbles a little bit, biting his cheek. The thought slips out, intentional this time. "One that's so cute."

Subaru's lips part for a moment. His eyebrows raise as he eyes Kamui. The complement sinks in, making the older man's cheeks burn up.

Kamui leans up for a moment, brushing their noses together. A loving payback ensues, repeating his beloved's words earlier this morning. "Really cute." He smiles so softly, it makes the older man's brain melt.

They peruse a few more sections of the store. Headings for each section markup Psychology, History, Biology, and so forth.

There are a few aisles dedicated to books on sale in various genres. Not finding anything in particular, Kamui takes the other by the hand once more.

"Do you want to go upstairs?" Kamui inquires, a little eagerly.

Subaru softly chuckles at this. "I'd love to." Just about anything Kamui proposed sounded… perfect.

There's a short walk over towards the escalators. Kamui hums for a moment, playing with his beloved's hand before settling with a light connection. Their pinkies link, a gesture that tugs at Subaru's heartstrings.

"So…" Kamui starts. The vibrant level is decorated with various posters, figurines, and mascots from CLAMP academy.

"So?" Subaru prompts, fully taking Kamui's hand in his own. Their fingers link as perfectly as always. Another hand finds itself under Kamui's chin. Breathtakingly beautiful eyes look up at him. Subaru licks his lips, especially feeling Kamui's hand playing with his own. "What is it?"

"You... I mean… when you… took classes here. You studied a lot about animal care, right?" Kamui questions simply enough. They are at the top of the floor before his date can answer the question. Kamui turns his head away, looking a little worried.

"That's right…" Subaru pauses, eyes narrowing a little confused about where it was going. A bit of surprise came into gold and emerald eyes. Perhaps he told Kamui that…but really couldn't recall. With his hand tugged towards another set of aisles off on the right, something felt off with that.

"I'm sorry I…" Kamui ducks his head down apologetically. They pass the main Manga section heading towards various types of books with aisles titled "Animals" and "Nature & Science".

"I kinda… asked the director about what you studied here…" Shyly, he answers the unspoken question.

Tender, emerald, and gold eyes lift at that. They blink, a bit bewildered, before settling down.

"I'm sorry…" Kamui shook his head slowly. "I wasn't meaning to pry… I just was curious and so I-" His hands fall, fingers nervously entwining with each other. "So...I-I-"

His boyfriend's finger comes to press over his lips. "I'm not upset at all…." The same hand shifts over to the side of Kamui's face, cupping his cheek. "Just a little confused…" He does admit, this thumb brushes over sensitive cheekbones. Kamui tries to look down, especially when he lets out a slight purr. The younger boyfriend is brought back to loving, concerned eyes.

The hand on his cheek keeps him steady, from turning away further. "Why didn't you come to me?"

Guilt seeps in through the frown on Kamui's lips. His violet-blue eyes quiver, going glossy and watery. "I… don't really know…" He mutters so quietly, his beloved has to lean in closer to hear bits and pieces. The hand on Kamui's cheek continues to caress in soft circles.

Kamui leans into the touch, easing back to their conversation. Soon loving fingers move to comb through dark silky hair. Messy strands of raven hair are tucked behind Kamui's reddening ear.

"I guess… I wasn't sure if that might bring up… any…" Every word leaves Kamui's voice growing softer and softer, entirely at a whisper now. "Bad memories or anything…"

"Kamui…" Subaru's dual-colored eyes glisten as they settle and soften. A compassionate, warm curl moves to his lips. Glancing around to assure the aisle was still clear, the taller male made a move. Protective arms wrap around Kamui's middle, pulling him into an embrace.

"Kamui, something like that-" Subaru hushes, arms encircling his love, before leading him back. He presses his boyfriend back against the shelves. The empty aisle and spot of privacy becoming their own little world for the moment. "-Really wouldn't be a problem… I mean last year was full of…" He swallows, hard and squeezes Kamui extra hard, as though his love would slip away otherwise.

"Challenges… but the time I actually spent on campus… and well with you only bring back very pleasant memories."

"B-but…" Subaru's finger presses to his boyfriend's quivering lips again.

"Even if it were something painful. I still want you to come to me," Subaru stays insistent on this. Stepping forward, presses his body, closer. Their chests brush up against each other, before melding. Kamui's smaller frame is all but engulfed as he's pressed back more firmly.

Heart pounding in his ears. Kamui looks up at his beloved in a daze. It's too hard to think past the feeling of his body pressed to the flat surface and being embraced and loved up by such incredible warmth. "You can ask me anything… my Kamui."

Subaru presses one hand out flat beside the smaller male's head. Kamui finds himself further pressed against the shelf. There isn't a single cell in his body wanting or willing to move away.

The older man smiles at this, with his free hand, he grabs the nearest book between them. They're standing close at the end of the aisle, only the wall behind them. So when the book is held strategically in front of their faces, they're given somewhat privacy. Protectively, their intimate moment is shielding for good measure. At the very least no one would see the movement of their lips.

A passionate kiss envelops. Soft lips press and meld with Kamui's with deep enthusiasm. Kamui's hand comes up to rest at the sides of the taller male's neck and shoulders. Arms loop around the taller male, tenderly. They give into each other. Their warmth. Their touch. Their kiss. It's too much to resist.

Violet-blue orbs to beautifully close full dark lashes. It's almost a shame to have to close his own eyes... Almost. Yet, the press of sensually warm lips is far too perfect to think much further on.

Subaru tilts his head lightly, licking at the seam of Kamui's mouth. Still lost in the moment, his beloved wordlessly complies, parting his lips instantly. Slow and tender movements of lips are reciprocated each step of the way. They meld, only deepening the contact as hands find themselves gripping slender hips.

"Mmnnn…" Kamui moans into the kiss. He's only kissed a bit harder because of that reaction. The sounds are easily swallowed up, their lips keep slotting together, pressing together over and over again. Subconsciously they grow comfortable with the kiss, both tilting their heads and connecting their lips until they find an angle so terribly sweet. Languid tongues entangled into the kiss, burning hotter and more passionate. Mind far gone, hormones kicked into overdrive, the younger of the two starts leaning up, presses his body closer and tighter against his love.

"Kamui… " Subaru hushes out, mind coming too as he feels the smaller body writhing against his own. Hand firmly grasp slender hips, keeping them from movements that might drive this scene much further than intended.

"Subaru?" Kamui's starry, foggy eyes, love-stained lips, and cherry-red cheeks are terribly effective. The heat pooling in the older man's stomach becomes too much, as he gives his beloved more space and turns passionate displays of kisses far more innocent. Their lips press sweetly. The book held in front of their faces closes, discreetly being put back into its place.

Kamui leans off of his tiptoes, as they hug a little longer. The kiss leaves the younger one dizzy, knees buckling as he collapses into his love's embrace. Kamui's messy raven-black head comes to rest between his beloved's neck and shoulder.

"I will…" Kamui begins vaguely, a flushed mess, catching his breath. "I'll come to you next time… He pauses, kissing a pink cheek "And I want you to come to me too…to rely on me..." Hands reach for one another interlacing.

"I will," Subaru promises in return, pressing one last kiss to the shorter man's temples before easing off. There are a lingering warmth and the connections of their hands only extend that.

"But… as you were asking, ah…" Subaru had to take a breath. He feels equal heat in his stomach and cheeks. "At the university...I did enroll in classes revolving around Animal Physiology and Wildlife, not that I attended them but …" Subaru continues to elaborate, smiling as Kamui listens so attentively. There's a spark in the younger male. His eyes shine, soaking in every word of each movement on his beloved's lips. Ones that were quite distracting moments before.

"When I was younger I always wanted to work with animals," Flushing bright pink, he admits more. "My 'dream' was...perhaps it sounds bizarre, to be a..." He bites his lip, half-laughing. "A... zookeeper."

"Really?" Kamui seems to light up, gazing so curiously and eager. There's not a sign of bemusement or teasing. Violet-blue eyes lock onto him fully devoted, attention fully on his love. There's a warmth swelling in his chest, hearing Subaru divulge something personal like this.

"Yes...it didn't quite pan out with work… but it felt nice to at least enroll in those classes after so long."

"I'm happy you were able to at least do that… not that there was time to enjoy it… but you spend so much time helping others…" Kamui professes, leaning upon his tiptoes. "Saving others." His hand brushes across a sleek and chiseled jawline. "You deserve to have things that make you happy."

"My Kamui," Subaru purrs, dual-toned eyes locking on their favorite flustered target. Taking the hand on his cheek captive he presses lingering kisses to the boy's palm.

"S-Subaru," Kamui squeaks, flustering but not making a motion to pull his hand back. He checks down the aisle to assure no one was nearby. "I only wish I could do more to help you fulfill that dream. I mean I'm barely catching up with classes. College level would be a bit…"

"Kamui…" Suddenly, long arms reach out. Kamui finds himself pressed back against the books. Both hands press flat beside Kamui's head. "That's not my dream anymore." Their foreheads rest upon each other. Subconsciously the older male licks his lips, whilst Kamui bites on his own.

"O-oh…" Kamui swallows, a bit more aware of their position now. Violet-blue eyes dart out to the side making sure they're still in relative privacy. Although his gaze always turns back.

"In fact, I have a new dream…" Subaru confesses, eyes lovingly locked to soft violet-blue. His breath ghosts over Kamui's. Their noses meet for a little kiss.

"Y-you do…?" Kamui looks up at his boyfriend sweetly. Beautifully and frustratingly oblivious.

"I do," Subaru answers, purposely, brushing their lips, only parting centimeters to speak...

"And what is that?" Kamui tilts his head. His eyes look up with so much love and devotion. The emotion shines so brightly, his beloved can't help but scoop him up in his arms, lifting his feet off the ground in the process.

"S-Subaru!" Kamui's shout has to be repressed to a whisper. Still, his beloved holds him up.

Subaru's lips press upon the shell of the other's ear. "It's You." He whispers, voice much deeper than usual. His arms tighten their lock around Kamui's figure as he shivers.

A heatwave of scarlet red runs its course through pale features. Kamui finds his knees buckling at the sincerity of that one word. "M-me…"

"You." Subaru nods at this, softening the embrace slightly. "You're my new dream, Kamui." Words are hushed so tenderly within the younger man's ears. Subaru pulls back just enough to see the rising flame upon his cheeks.

"Well then…that's good because.."Kamui returns with a feverish passion in his eyes. Despite his shy smile and flushed cheeks he professes. Mimicking his love's earlier movements he breathes into his beloved's ear. "And you're mine." Heating up the smaller boy "Always being with you...that's what I want the most."

It only seems fair for rose-red to spring its way onto the older man's cheeks. Their eyes flutter close as a brief, chaste kiss ensues. They remain cuddled up in the embrace, only melting within each other's warmth.

"Aww!" The cry of cheerful female students breaks the males out of their trance. Immediately the two flush, gradually pulling away, realizing just what they've been doing in the past… How long has it been?

"So cute!" Another girl shouts out giggling. Anxiety floods Kamui's own features as they turn to look for the source of the sound.

Fortunately, the group of students had been far back enough and they managed to miss the little love-fest going on. The students huddled around the CLAMP mascot, posing and taking photos beside the white fish mascot.

"Looks like we haven't been caught," Kamui whispers, partly in amusement and relief.

"It seems that way...we should have probably actually started looking at the books." Subaru proposes. Kamui bites inside his cheek, beaming more than he feels he should. How one person could make him feel incredibly weak one moment and be entirely adorable the next was almost unfair. Kamui's heart had never had to work harder than as of late.

Still, their hands clasped, Kamui lets himself be led down various aisles. They come to a stop. The light in Kamui's eyes comes back full force. He looks through the aisle, tons of adorable cats, dogs, and other fluffy animals are displayed on the book covers.

There's that sense of innocence and contentment that makes the older man's breath hitch.

A longer hand ruffles the hair on Kamui's head.

The pair of them look over the various books on animals and nature. It's serene and silent until- "I know this one," Subaru pulls out an older book with a brown German Shepherd on the cover. Words on "Dog Behavior" were written on the front alongside a 'Complete Guide' in a smaller font. "When I was really young I got this after we adopted a family dog."

"You had a dog?" Kamui blinks, a foolish smile comes over his lips. Of course, he just said he did...

"I did," Subaru responds gently, a bit cheerful. His eyes go starry, and it seems it's Kamui's turn to be swept away by beautiful features lighting up. "He was so sweet, incredibly loyal," Subaru reminisces. "He was right there at my side every day up until he passed…" His lips turn crestfallen a little bittersweet.

"I'm sure he loved you more than anything," Kamui proclaims with a gentle smile. He hugs the taller man's side. Gentle fingers brush up and down the

"I hope so… " Subaru reflects. "He always gave me so much happiness."

"I know so," Kamui leaves no room for argument there. His head nuzzles against his beloved's side. "Because I know that feeling… well of course one much deeper..." Kamui admits, shyly, before turning back towards a random section of books. He pulls a random book out burying his heated face within the contents.

Subaru swallows, taking in beautiful cheeks that only grow more colorful. The words seem to play over and over again, as the older man is frozen in place. Every ounce of love and devotion seeps in through Kamui's words.

Composing himself, the older male walks up behind Kamui, hugging him from behind. A kiss is pressed to his shoulder. "I love you too…" His lips linger. "more than anything" Subaru quotes, imitating the (adorably) excited tone from his beloved.

Kamui cutely sulks at the teasing nature of the tone. Still, though, he can't keep the smile on his face. It's becoming a little too difficult not to feel his cheeks raising, a freeing kind of warmth overtakes everything else.

Violet-blue eyes sparkle with amusement when he sees his boyfriend bring out a few more books over different breeds of dogs. There are a few consisting of some on care and behavior of cats.

There's a handful of books, Subaru takes along with him. Kamui beams at this, feeling an inner victory to see his beloved so at ease.

Somewhere along the way of talking (which led to flirting) and walking, they return to the large manga section.

"Hm, I might check to see if they have a new volume out," Kamui expresses, a few mangas in mind.

Subaru brightens, looking all too amused as Kamui shyly begins to walk down the BL manga section. The soft pastel colors and flowery backgrounds on the books display a more feminine style. Yet, Subaru does find himself entranced, impresses by the beauty of the various art covers.

Kamui burns up, turning exceedingly flustered over more… mature covers were quite a cute sight as well. The younger of the two does quickly rush by them, kneeling down as they come back to a more innocent book selection.

"Ah! I forgot they made a light novel of this!" Kamui quietly yet cheerfully exclaims, grasping a book and holding it to his chest.

The sparkle in his eyes appears as he scans through the pages. "This is the first Manga Yuzuriha got me started on…" Kamui tells cheerily. He rubs at the side of his neck. "I… ended up liking it more than I thought I would."

The sheepish admittance makes it difficult for Subaru to refrain from being too affectionate. Though the Manga sections are a bit busier than the previous aisles, making it tricky to sneak in little kisses and touches.

"Ah, I thought the hiatus was never going to end," Kamui points out another book. The glossy front cover features fantasy looking series with two knights, standing with their backs touching, hands linked. Subaru beams and happily allows Kamui to drag him through the various aisles in the store.

After gathering a mountain of different books, they decided to break. "I have to show you the Cafe."

"Alright," Subaru sweetly replies. His boyfriend looked up with glossy, guilty eyes. Subaru carried a good portion of Kamui's manga selections, leaving his arms full.

"Why don't you get us a table and I'll order for us," Subaru kindly offers.

"Okay," Kamui agrees. He placed the stack of books on the ovular cafe table. Again, the younger man is reminded they were very much a couple. His boyfriend pulls his seat out for him.

"What would you like?" He asks and glances towards the counter.

"Hmmm…" Kamui ponders, tapping under his chin. A brilliant smile crossed over his lips, glossy white teeth only enhancing the beautiful features. "Surprise me?"

Subaru caught his breath, staring longingly at the gleam of his love's eyes. The rise of his rosy cheeks and

"I'll do my best," Subaru promises. Fingers brush aside strands of black hair, highlights of entrancing dark blue reflect under the bright lighting in the building. He kisses Kamui's forehead before turning towards the counter.

Kamui feels an earlier warmth, sweeping through his features. Violet-blue eyes sparkle, honing in on their date. Subaru smiles politely, talking with the barista upfront.

Feeling curious eyes lingering over him, Subaru turns back. Hurriedly, the younger of the two whips his head around, ducking his head down and pulling out one of his manga at random. Violet-blue eyes focus on the hook, occasionally stealing glances.

It's much sooner than expected when Subaru returns with his arms Full. Kamui stands up to help. Nimble fingers grasp for the drink carrier placing it on the table.

There's a colorful confection that stirs into the younger man's core. "You remembered this."

Another kiss is pressed to Kamui's temples before the older man takes his seat. "Of course. It was something you gave me after all. I'd never forgotten,"

Kamui can't suppress the beam on his features. His cheeks paint a beautiful shade of pink, while he places his hand over his boyfriend's. "You're perfect." He tells him, looking into shivering dual-toned eyes.

The older man shook his head, caressing the back of his love's hand. "I think that word describes you best."

"My Subaru," Kamui coos, all too softly, leaning forward to brush their noses together. There's a lingering feeling burning between the pair. Though the sound of clattering plates and loud blenders bring them to reality. They were not alone here. Even if they lost track of that many times.

"Hopefully, you'll like this," Subaru pulls out a drink placing it in front of Kamui.

The younger boyfriend takes a cup filled with whip cream, chocolate chips, and syrup on top. There's some sort of chocolatey ice coffee mix.

"It's from you." Kamui presses his lips over the straw, missing a heated gaze as he tried the cold drink. "See it's perfect," Kamui assures, kissing the older man's cheek discreetly. He ponders if it isn't already obvious how close they've become. "Thank you."

"Kamui…" Subaru purrs his name, their legs brush up under the table leaving them flushed.

"This feels…" Kamui softly speaks, twirling the straw around the drink. "So right." Slender fingers wave at the space between them.

"It does," Subaru readily agrees.

"I hope you really do have the day free," Kamui starts off, seeing curious eyes raised up.

"Because might take some time to decide which books I want to get…" Kamui further explains. He lets one of his feet slip out from his shows, daringly but lightly brushing his foot up and over his owner's leg. A sense of pride overwhelms Kamui seeing reddened cheeks and a gasp at the gesture.

"And… I might have to keep you with me the rest of the day." Kamui purrs, playful despite his racing heart and nerves. Please, find this cute.

"I'm quite alright with this," Subaru says, seriously. Kamui eyes his date playfully, a slightly shy partly flirtatious quirk of his lips, batting of long lush eyelashes. The two holding their gaze before a gentle breeze of laughter escapes between them. It's light.

"I hope you keep me with you for far far longer than that."

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END

We have sappy fluff because ya know sometimes the world needs that. I'll see you next chapter!

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