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.

18. Sweetpea

Ambrosia: Chapter 18~Sweetpea~

Summary: The end of summer break and classes, brings Kamui with a bit of free time. He and Subaru plan a trip to Kyoto to visit the Sumeragi estate. Before that, they have a Heart to Heart about each other's worries. Kamui hears a bit about his past and has the option to learn more as they go.

Chapter 18: Sweetpea: Which is an adorable sounding and looking flower. Symbolizes A meeting, blissful pleasure, departure, a meeting, and so on. It fits with the theme/event within this chapter.

---

Communication

Morning glow only helps to enhance the sleeping boy's ethereal found himself subconsciously, licking his lips as he took his petite boyfriend, sleeping blissfully. Kamui held a dreamy smile on his lips. Those dark full lashes veil enchanting violet eyes. Truly, his precious boyfriend was the epitome of beauty. His precious person only seemed to glow more with the relaxed expression, free of any worry lines wrinkling up his temples.

Kamui had opted on sleeping in his own pajamas for the first night this week. Or more so since Subaru came back. It was probably embarrassing enough to admit, he was 'stealing' his boyfriend's clothes for sleep.

Subaru brushes a few stray strands of black, behind his boyfriend's ear. It made sense why Kamui might be too embarrassed… but still the older male got himself all riled up. The thought of coming home to greet Kamui, in his clothes, was far too perfect. Subaru's heart stirred as much as the heat in his core. Well, there was always next time, if his cute lover wished to.

Now, he really couldn't complain, the younger male made for an extremely affectionate cuddler. Kamui had his arms wrapped snugly around his 'pillow', with a single leg draped over his boyfriend's hips. Effectively Kamui had kept his precious person in place.

"Kamui," Subaru calls, in a whisper-soft tone. Tender fingers trail over the exposed stomach. Subaru shakes his head, enamored. He brings the two lapels of Kamui's nightshirt closer, covering the toned stomach once more.

"I'm far too weak for you," Subaru murmurs to his sleeping boyfriend. He presses a quick peck to plush lips. Ah, it takes a good deal of strength not to linger and wake his beloved.

For a few more moments…. Subaru indulges in snuggling his love. His nose nuzzles into the crook of his sweet heart's neck. Lying back on his side, it's all too easy to wrap an arm protectively around a slender core.

Kamui rolls closer towards his needed warmth, making his lover's heart soar. On cloud nine, Subaru busies their legs to tangle up. Tender lips plant kisses upon partially exposed shoulders. With a final little kiss upon the young man's temples, he closes his eyes.

There are just moments before Subaru hears sleepy little grumbles, reawakening to his beloved stirring.

Kamui's gorgeous violet-blue eyes open. They're blinking so softly and sleepily.

"Go back to sleep, love," Subaru guides gently.

Kamui looks up again, locking his sleepy eyes with fond lovesick ones. "Morning Subaru~" Hemumbles groggily. Kamui begins, rubbing at his eyes, blinking as though he might be lost in one of his romantic fantasies. He falls back asleep for another blissful moment.

When Kamui does truly awaken, his eyelashes bat in a slow and alluring manner. Those violet-blue orbs blink tiredly, before catching a heart-fluttering sight. The dark head of raven-black begins to show traces of deep forest green under nature's light. The sunlight hits his older lover's head, creating a kind of halo effect on the top. 'It suits you.' Kamui thinks sweetly.

"Morning." Kamui greets, tiredly. He hugs his sleeping partner snuggly. Soft yawns keep falling from plush lips.

"My sleeping beauty," Subaru can't help himself with the words. It was less speaking and more his mind vocalizing whatever it deemed truth from his lips. Kamui's rising flush was more than worth the little slip. The words, in fact, had only seemed that much more applicable.

Dazzling jewel-like eyes meet, and a loving gaze lingers on. There's a strong desire for more skinship. Tilting his head, cupping supple cheeks, Subaru leans in close. As though pulled by gravity itself, both lovers naturally fall into each other's touch. Their lips meet for several, sweet, unhurried kisses. Kisses that make them cuddle up and hold each other that much tighter.

"Good Morning," Subaru breathes. He places a peck on Kamui's lip, earning a sleep-filled smile. Tender lips caress across Kamui's flushed cheeks. A kiss to the tip of the nose. A kiss to the forehead. And lastly, a kiss back to perfectly plush lips.

Kamui copies the plethora of kisses bestowed on him, though his kisses linger for a bit longer. He teases his lover's lips with the slightest swipe of his tongue, before hurriedly turning to a closed-mouth kiss. The sulking expression to follow was more than worth it. Kamui grins, softly tickling the dip in his lover's neck. Still, he can't help himself nor hide his own feelings too well.

"Mmm… you feel good." Kamui dazedly voices his thoughts aloud.

Subaru's lips curl to a tender smile. His eyes shimmer, all too lovesick by the words. "As do you" A kiss follows. "...You're incredibly soft." As sappy as it may sound, the older man doesn't stop his words from coming. With Kamui's eyes devoted to him, he doesn't see the need to stop either."I love how perfectly you fit in my arms."

Kamui processes the words, mind a little dizzy, gazing into beautiful eyes for some time. As the words sink in, he notices meaning beyond the succulent movement of lips. Cheeks ignite with a dark heat of rose-red. The tips of his ears are burning, and everything feels so much.

"I love you," Kamui professes, honestly not sure if he could ever find better words to describe this enrapturing feeling. Finding a response to how embarrassing words make him feel...would only cause further embarrassment.

A little shyly, Kamui leans forward to capture sweet lips for several grateful kisses.

This time, Kamui allows them to linger and deepen as much as his boyfriend desires. As much as he desires, but right now there's no rush.

At some point, Kamui is brought to lie on top of his taller lover. The hands traveling up and down his back, makes him seek a deeper angle. Their lips re-connect from as many new angles as they can find. Having to part from a kiss for more than a brief second becomes too much.

The silent atmosphere makes the embarrassing sounds of their lips that much more sensual. In between vast lovely kisses, they return to cuddling. Kamui buries his fingers into soft strands of black hair. Before too long, he shifts to entangling their hands.

"It is a perfect fit," Kamui whispers, tenderly to himself, but he doesn't mind that Subaru hears the truth from it. He rests his head down, over a delicate heart. His ears take in the calming sound of rhythmic heartbeats.

Gold-emerald eyes take in the beautiful sight of raven hair splayed over a broad chest. Those violet orbs peering up whimsically make him lose his breath.

There's a blissful silence following. Soft heartbeats and breaths follow up. Subaru is partially convinced his lover fell back asleep. Moments later he's proven wrong.

"Umm…." Kamui softly mumbles, fingers tapping on his boyfriend's chest. He could feel how hot his cheeks simmered, by the coolness of his love's bare chest. "It's been a while and since it's morning…" What to ask first…? Something to make for a good start to the day, before maybe asking for other things… requests from his heart and hormones.

"What would you like for breakfast, Subaru?" Kamui asks, his innocent question a contrast from the heat in his expression...

Subaru blinks, leaning up a bit to lock eyes with his tired beloved. 'Of course, he's already thinking of me. So sweetly…:'. "You don't have to go to any trouble. I'll love anything you make."

"That doesn't narrow it down," Kamui lightly banters, tongue in cheek. His stomach flips at the lighthearted chuckle following. There's the heat pooling in his core, the time apart, and the sensations he gets when his lover's voice goes a bit more warm and deep.

"It's well…. it's been almost a week since we had a meal together…." Kamui paused, seeing sad, wincing puppy-dog eyes from his guilt-stricken beloved. Quickly he waves his hands in front of himself.

"I understand why, of course, you're incredibly important, not just to me…" Kamui kisses away the worry-line on his lover's forehead. "I just mean because of that, I want to make something really nice for us."

"I'll be fine with whatever works best for you.…" Subaru murmurs, mind on autopilot. His head starts overthinking. Maybe… After breakfast, I should talk with you. Subaru's mind fills with worries about what he's delaying from discussing. "I don't want you working too hard."

Yes, he felt the need to talk about the things he found on his trip. About Kamui's family, fate, his former beloved's sacrifice... For his love to have the opportunity to learn more and more. The good and the bad.

"I don't mind…." Kamui repeats, this time flustering. He bites along his lower lip and looks up wantonly at his boyfriend. "You always take care of me… I like doing the same."

Though was it so bad to indulge in these tender moments a bit longer?

"My angel," Subaru is broken from his thoughts. He smiles lovingly at the words. He gently brushes dark bangs away from Kamui's forehead and kisses all over it. Times like now, make him remember that Kamui was his now, and the younger male loved so deeply, and earnestly. Even when going through tremendous pain, he kept the strength of his heart.

"And Um…I think it would be fun to cook together… if that's okay…" Kamui asks in a series of mumbles. Not wanting to be too mushy on just how much he liked domesticity with his beloved. Something so pure and simple, reminding him they were home. Home together.

"I'd love to," Subaru responds. Their lips lock for a languid moment, before patting softly. "I can't guarantee I'll be able to pull

"I'll be right there beside you," Kamui responds, unexpecting the magnitude felt from his words. They couldn't help but follow up. "Always."

"Thank you," Subaru expresses, entirely enamored, despite his nerves.

Kamui nods, shyly, locking his lips. He intended to say something following up but it stopped by his boyfriend's odd apprehensiveness.

"I… well then... I'll probably..." Subaru comes off every bit as nervous as felt, voice weak and light. "Ah… get ready for the day." He vaguely turned his head in the direction of their bathroom, then to his slightly disheveled hair.

"O-oh," Kamui blinks, not quite grasping the nerves behind the words. It wasn't like an odd thing to get ready-more awake- before starting the day. Subaru was avoiding his gaze, a little flushed.

Kamui's hormones convinced him there might be certain… activities to follow when he returned.

"Yeah, sure. Go right ahead." He smiles good-naturedly. "I'll try looking up some new recipes. We can cook something new together."

Subaru happily kisses his boyfriend back, for his thoughtful actions and words. Their lips brush up sweetly before they press their foreheads together.

"I'll just be a few moments, to freshen up," Subaru excuses himself, missing the purr which followed in reply. Kamui's red cheeks go sadly, his mind was far too deep in guilt, worries, and bringing up more painful aspects of the past. It didn't feel right to let it linger.

The slightly heated red features of his beloved went missing. Now, Subaru only seemed more lost in thought, staring off, even though he walked effortlessly to their bathroom.

"I'll be waiting then," Kamui rolls onto his stomach. Sweetly, he nuzzles his love's pillow, watching the retreating back fondly. Happily, he meets his older lover in a fond gaze.

Really, Kamui gives it a few moments before questioning. He hops out of bed, grasping for his phone, and looks into a few pages from his class' recipe books. CLAMP school, of course, had its share of secrets. The culinary arts were no exception.

Several moments were chosen between deciding between more traditional or western breakfasts. Kamui's face scrunched up. "You really didn't help narrow it down…"

The longer the moments go on, without a word, or any follow-up, makes Kamui worry.

"Are you coming back?" he asks, soft and meekly. He lies on his side, peering into the adjoining bathroom, where his love finished up freshening up. Unfortunately, this was, as Kamui found, not code for preparing for more intimacy. Maybe an invite to shower? Or at least a little more making out... after his love took ages brushing his teeth.

In hindsight, the nervous, laughing actions should have come as a warning sign. Subaru gazed faintly into the mirror, feeling a sickness in his core.

His mind was still a bit distraught. Looking through those archives, finding answers and honestly more questions about his love's history, concerns for his safety.

"Subaru?" Kamui calls worriedly. His raven-black eyebrows furrowed together.

"Oh, yes." Subaru couldn't help but swallow. His all too beautiful love was sprawled out on his back, eagerly awaiting his return. Incredibly long sleek legs crossing over each other. Gold and emerald eyes darkened, as he glanced over his love with a sense of heat. So so so…. Tempting.

Kamui bit his lips, before nervously locking them. He didn't know what to make of the look, it left him lying deeper into the sheets. He found his hips moving, and heat pooling with anticipation.

When Subaru only sat down in the bed, by his lover's feet, Kamui felt frustration building. Especially, after being apart for so long. Though frustration kept spreading more at himself for holding such...improper? expectations.

Though…. When he sat up, his heart sank. Subaru's hands were folded neatly into his lap, and his eyes were closed almost painfully. He grimaced, dual-toned eyes watery, pained, and wincing. Automatically, Kamui leaned up and wrapped his slender arms around his boyfriend's side.

"My Subaru…"Kamui felt guilty. The feeling of comforting his troubled love definitely took priority over the physical desires… he'd lost himself in. But that could certainly wait. He peppered delicate kisses, on every little pained curve and line across his lover's face. Butterfly-soft kisses followed up, lips comforted and loved all along the downward curve of painted lips

"Are you…" Kamui begins, sadly, he crawls over to sit closer to his boyfriend. He brushes a few strands of raven hair behind his lover's ear. Kamui's eyes sparkle, entranced, seeing highlights of deep forest green in his love's beautiful hair. Something only bringing out more beauty in the emerald eye of his beloved.

His older lover looks towards him, eyes shivering. Kamui sweetly rests his head upon his boyfriend's shoulder.

"What's wrong?" Kamui whispers, nuzzling sweetly into his boyfriend's neck.

"It's… just…" Subaru heaves a long exasperated breath. His eyes stay trained upon the hands in his lap. Kamui is far too stubborn, snatching the older man's hands within his own, and bringing them to his chest.

'You're far too good for me.' Subaru's lips quirk up at the tender expression. He kisses his boyfriend soundly for the sweet gesture.

"Did something happen at work?" Kamui guesses. It's always his first go-to. It seemed reasonable considering the countless spirits and individuals his lover encountered in his line of work.

Subaru shakes his head. He attempts to retrieve one of his hands back, but Kamui keeps them close, lowering them to the top of his own lap. It feels like a small victory when he feels hands back on his hips, and he's lifted up. Kamui is deposited neatly to sit in his lover's lap. Being at eye level helps matters.

"Not work exactly… but when I left to head out to look into things… through some archives."

"Oh… kay?" Kamui breathes softly, kneeling so he can rest their foreheads together.

"Kamui…" Subaru slowly closes his eyes. "I… It's probably not best to talk about first thing in the morning..."

Kamui huffed at this, pulling back from the attempted kiss. Both knew how distracting that could be. There was still the issue at hand. An unknown one.

"There's no way I'm going to let this go." Kamui insists with a small smirk and bestows a kiss on his boyfriend's cheek.

"Kamui…" Subaru breathes his name softly.

"I can't… not when I know somethings bothering you," He finishes with a more tender tone. The slightly amused smirk falls back to a worried smile.

"It's not exactly something I've wanted to bring up but…"

"Subaru~!"

Kamui lets out a dramatic huff, crossing his arms under his chest. A part of him flushes, because not even thinking it through, when he should be more frustrated…. He's already cuddling closer into his lover's lap.

'It's not fair… it feels so good like this.' Kamui thinks, but the fingertips caressing his sides, make him ready to melt.

Still… Kamui wasn't about to let up. He leaned up, holding his beloved's gaze. "Whatever it is… I want to know." Kamui's hands brushed upon tired cheekbones. Gold-emerald watery orbs gaze, falling into deep violet-blue.

"Yes..still it's not something I wanted to have to bring up.. ."

Kamui presses a kiss to his lover's trembling lips. Before the kiss is returned, Subaru finds his lips stopped by a gentle fingertip.

"Now, I'm way too curious," Kamui hushes, in a slightly teasing tone. He retrieves Subaru's trembling hands at his waistline. Their fingers laced neatly together. Kamui raises them, locking eyes with his lover. His lips pepper all across his lover's longer hands, kissing each knuckle. Something which had been done countless times to Kamui before.

"And besides if it is something painful…. We will get through it." Kamui assures, lips curling up softly, as he leans forward to brush their noses together. "And you'll just have to be the one to comfort me…." He breathes out, daring, and hushes right into his lover's ear. "As much as I need you to."

A pleasant feeling emerged, coming back to see Subaru's cheeks painted a wild tone of red.

Unfortunately, he couldn't not react to his beloved. Kamui felt his own burning up, but not unpleasantly so. Gentle lips caress to feel just how hot that statement made his love feel in turn.

And… Kamui seemed to be leaving it up to his boyfriend's interpretation. The unknown brought a shiver through Kamui's core. Before that… though they needed this talk.

"Alright," Subaru surrenders, taking a long breath. He squeezes the hands within his own, before gently lowering them between their warm bodies. "I had been worried for some time… about your family line... the Magamis'…."

Kamui shudders in his love's arms, making Subaru's heart sink harshly. Quickly, Subaru squeezed the hand within his own once more. His arms wrapped Kamui up tightly into an embrace.

Gingerly, the taller of the two, shift back on the bed. He rests so their backs face the pillows and headboard. More directly, Kamui is pulled closer and closer until his back meets a warm chest.

Subaru feels himself holding his breath until Kamui's fingers clutch into his soft pajama top. The younger male makes a whimpering sound, before settling into the embrace, and cuddling close.

"Why?" Kamui calls, terribly soft. A simple, yet entirely painful word.

"I was worried… from what I knew of your family…" A deep, drawn-out sigh fills the pause. Subaru shakes his head, pressing his smaller lover closer. "And by what I didn't know."

"I see…" Kamui says, sitting up to see the conflicted expression in his love's eyes. The younger male purses his lips, breathing slowly. "So… what were you looking for?" His tone remains soft, sincere, and compassionate. Even with a personal matter like this.

"I…. guess I don't really know the right answer to that…" Subaru's reply comes guiltily.

"Then, tell me any answer." Kamui cups his love's cheek tenderly. His thumb caresses tense features. "Talk to me."

"I…" Subaru trails off, unable to avoid the penetrating gaze his partner gave off. There wasn't a chance they could just ignore this. His shoulders fall down as he buries his face between Kamui's neck and shoulder. "I wanted to know you were safe…"

"Safe?" Kamui repeats, patiently awaiting more.

Subaru breathes in his lover's scent, taking a moment to calm his mind. "Yes." Again he squeezed Kamui into a tight hug.

"I'm not going anywhere." Kamui's hands softly held over trembling ones. He kept their linked hands firmly on his chest.

"I only knew some things about your family… the curse, the power, and shadows sacrifices…" Subaru squeezes the hands on his own. "I wanted to know if there was anything else regarding your fate.. that I should be wary of…"

"Is there something?" Kamui asks carefully, feeling the pain from the profession. He leans his head to the side allowing his lover more access. The nuzzle against his neck makes Kamui hum softly.

"No," Subaru shakes his head. The soft locks of raven-black tickle Kamui's neck. The latter's endearing laughter cuts through a layer of tension. "Not in the same way your family had been cursed...after that...promised day…" He words over carefully, tugging Kamui back to him, as he felt the younger one shiver. "There's not supposed to be a set destiny...or sacrifice needed after your kekkai restored the world."

"That's good then," Kamui leans back, his full light-body weight feeling tired from the topic. "I guess...that's the benefit of being the only Magami left," he spoke sarcastically enough, with a tone even to seem like he was humoring it. There was certainly a darker pain evident in his trembling eyes.

"I'm so sorry, Kamui…" Subaru calls to him, eyes shivering, looking into his love's pained eyes. He squeezes the younger male almost painfully close. Unlike countless others, the words don't come as some expected words of pity. The trembling voice, and warm tears against his skin, make Kamui realize how deeply his lover took on other's pain.

"You don't need to be sorry," Kamui assures softly, lacing and replacing their hands together. It's a sense of a comforting caress. The tip of his thumb brushes upon the side of his beloved's hands. "It does sound... like something is reassuring in what you've found."

A tiny bit guilty, Kamui discloses. "I do wish you came to me to talk about this...I didn't know you were so worried." The second the words slip, they feel foolish. Of course, his beloved would worry, he was far too used to taking on other's pain and problems. Always worrying more for his precious person than himself.

"I know that would have been better," Subaru murmurs, voice warm against the sensitive shoulder blades. "I just don't want to bring up things that may cause you pain. But I underestimated how hard it is, and how bad it would feel to keep anything from you."

"It's the same thing with me. Of course, I've done my share of asking about you..." Kamui starts off sympathetically. Far too often, he had gone to CLAMP academy to learn as much as he could about his beloved's family, profession, and origins of the Sakurazukamori. "Because I don't want to have to bring up things that will cause you pain…"

"Kamui…" Subaru whispers, still so rather uncertain. "But still...I'm the one who asked you to come to me for things and here I am-mmmph" Subaru's words are cut short with a delicate fingertip to his lips.

"It's okay Subaru," The younger male hums fondly. He tilts his head back just enough to silence his lover's worries with a kiss. "We're both learning." Kamui offers sweetly, lips glistening as he licks them. Gently, he removes his finger and replaces it with smooth, shimmering lips.

There really isn't any will, nor has there ever been to fight the gentle caress between lips. It's a kiss so gradual, still innocent, yet lingering… always open to becoming more and more intimate.

"I only wanted to know as much as I can to… protect you…" Subaru can't help but lament. "Because I need you."

Kamui hums softly at this. "I…" He starts, only to find his older lover was sadly hiding his face, against him. "I know…" Kamui reaches one hand up to gently pat his boyfriend's head. "And hey, I need you too."

Kamui remains a little frustrated at having to angle his head to catch his beloved full expression. The lithe male turns in the embrace. There's a sense of completion again gazing into his special person's eyes. Kamui presses their lips to close, in a way words alone could never hope to convey.

"I'm not going anywhere," Kamui assures, cupping tender cheeks. His fingertips smoothly run circles and patterns all across their new canvas. The heat beneath his fingers brings a smile

"I know…" Subaru's soft cry emits.

"I'm strong," Kamui assures, with a bright gleam in his eyes. He takes his beloved's hand and kisses the back of it.

Subaru rests his forehead upon his lover's own. "It's not that… I just… know I'm the one who isn't strong enough…" His words fall to a pained whisper. "If anything were to happen to you… I would be…"

Kamui wraps himself up into his love's warmth. This time he allows his beautifully sensitive boyfriend to rest his head upon his chest. He hopes his heartbeats become soothing.

"I'm not going to be careless..." Kamui promises, with deep sincerity. "Because I…" His mind flashes through memories of his earlier school days, the constant school fights...and destructive behavior, after learning of his destiny in Tokyo.

This time Kamui's cheeks start to flare. Subaru's eyes can't catch the expression but widen nonetheless. He hears and feels beautiful heartbeats speeding up and skipping.

"I...I have a future I look forward to…" Kamui struggles to admit it. There are gentle kisses planted in the spaces his pajama top wasn't covering. The skinship makes him mewl softly. "And a present… that makes me happy… so I won't risk it… for anything…"

"Kamui…" Subaru breathes tender and delicate. He glances up to try and steal a glance at his lover's elegant expression. Unfortunately, his abashed lover sensed this, turned his head up, averting his watering eyes.

"So please, tell me you'll be safe too," Kamui at last voices. "And if you're burdened by your fate...you can talk to me."

"What...do you mean?" Subaru hesitates to caress a hand up and down his love's back.

"With the...Sa-" Kamui quickly dropped his phrasing. He gestured towards his eye. "That contract...to the tree.."

"Oh…" Subaru's eyes winced slightly. That would make sense…

"I don't mean to pry," Kamui refrains from going too far with questions. What mattered is that Subaru was alright, he could be free. "Are you...alright? The curse that comes with it..."

For this, Subaru shook his head. His heart lurched seeing tears streaming. Kamui took little to no notice. "I'll be alright. The desire to fulfill that kind of work…" Sacrificing. "It's all considerably changed." He reaches out a hand to brush across Kamui's tear-stained cheeks. "Since you created your kekkai, it's felt much lighter. There isn't that same pull. I have a feeling you've saved me again."

"I don't know if I really did anything though…"

"You really don't see how incredible you are?" Subaru shakes his head. He kisses streaming tears falling from beautiful orbs of violet-blue. "You've done so much for me...and I'll be alright."

"I guess whatever the reason, it doesn't matter." Kamui leans into the gentle touch on his cheek. "I'm just happy you're not burdened by it. You have a gentle heart. I hate the thought of you being made to go against it."

"I could say the same for you," Subaru replies all too fondly. He peppers several kisses upon rosy and tear-covered cheeks. "I'm going to be alright. My ties are nowhere near as strong with that tree...and it's not a power I plan on having to use unless it were a last resort.

"I-I'm so glad…" Kamui released, with a break in his voice.

"Somehow, being beside you, makes me feel a sense of hope. That even painful things will turn out alright," Subaru vulnerably professes, before placing his hand under Kamui's chin, lifting his face, letting their eyes meet. "My Kamui…I need you so much"

This time Kamui is taken into a much deeper, breath-taking sort of kiss, leaving his head spinning. The hand on the back of his head brings him to a sense of gravity, safety. He presses back in earnest, parting his lips to allow for deeper connections. There's no hurry, only languid movements.

"I need you too. You always have protected me." Kamui professes, soft, gentle, and entirely intimate. He cradles the weary head against his chest. Gazing down fondly he hushes. "I will always, always, protect you as well, Subaru. I need you in my life..."

"Kamui…"

"We will be alright. I plan on living a long life as long as possible…"

Subaru felt something tug painfully at his heart. A concept that was far from reality the past year, but the words, the tone, and the current state of things… This was their new reality.

"I'll do the same, "Subaru returns with a sincere, deeply rooted promise. He saw the heat in Kamui's cheeks and blissfully knew his own were matching. Presses of lips placed all along sensitive skin there. " To live a long life with you…into the afterlife even. "

Kamui's eyes wildly tremble, welling up with tears. The floodgates lift, enough for his violet orbs to stream with unhinged emotion. Gone was that painful image… of a Subaru wishing to die… helpless at the fate of being rescued on that Rainbow Bridge.

There was no surprise, as Kamui would be comforted. Tender fingertips brushed at the tears rushing down. Soft kisses followed up on every inch of the delicate face.

Smoothly, Subaru managed to lie back against the bed. He pulled Kamui along, letting his beloved cuddle up once more, crying his heart upon a welcoming chest.

"Subaru…." Kamui calls so a few moments, he allows himself to bury himself into his lover's warmth and cry to an embarrassing degree.

"I'll be here…" The younger lover coos, breath tickling the taller man's neck. For this moment, the plans for the morning come to a halt.

Their long legs entangle perfectly, as they fall into each other's arms, letting the warmth take over. Their lips meet in a series of messy, slow, yet entirely blissful kisses. It's not quite the morning Kamui fantasized of but it was something needed for them nonetheless.

"Always."

---

Breakfast~

Finally, it was time to get something to eat. Although leaving a perfectly comfortable bed, and breaking from each other's arms was rough. Kamui's stomach growls alerted the couple they should probably start the day.

Their kitchen is brightly lit, filled with the faint background music coming from the TV set. A series of soothing, slow-paced melodies filter through the air. They're only briefly covered up by the sound of gentle laughter, and the clinking of cooking utensils at work.

"You're doing so well," Kamui compliments with a soft purr, wrapping his taller boyfriend up in a hug. His chest presses soft upon the broader back, in front of him. The raven-haired male simply rests his cheek against the side of his lover's arm peeking out at the progress.

"I'm not so sure." Subaru snorts at the compliment, uneasy with his own skill compared to his gifted lover. The culinary arts seemed to make his Kamui shine, and relax. There was something especially comforting, about simple things with the two of them here like this.

Glossy violet-blue eyes fix their gaze upon the movement of a nimble hand guiding the sharp knife up and down upon the long carrots and cucumbers. The movement goes slow, a bit messy, and every now and then Subaru loses his pace. The older man ends up cutting more of the board than the vegetable.

"See?" Subaru's voice comes dejected. His hand sweeps towards the marks in their once pristine board. He has a tint of red to his cheeks, ears feeling heated. He. turns to Kamui, seeming to prove his point.

"Don't be so hard on yourself," Kamui coos, feeling a bit of rush being able to be the one to help his beloved in some way. He sidesteps, leaning upon his tip-toes, and kisses the taller male's cheek. "You're learning. And I love how you always work so hard at it."

Subaru looks a little unconvinced, lips pursed, eyes wide, and dark eyebrows rising high.

"Can I show you something?" Kamui asks hand extended out towards his insecure lover. Subaru nods, handing the handle of the knife towards his beloved.

The younger of the two takes this with stride. His smile quirks up, watching his boyfriend's eyes light up in wonder. Seamlessly, the younger man's hand glides over the cutting board. The blade of the knife quickly and equally cuts up the vegetable in a matter of seconds.

"You're amazing," Subaru lets his thoughts slip. The flush on his favorite person's cheeks turns darker than the cherry tomatoes they prepared earlier.

"It's nothing too special," Kamui rubs at his abashed neck. He feels adoring eyes on him and remembers how hard it can be to maintain balance over those sweet yet intense gazes. "Just some stuff I picked up from my mother when I was growing up."

"She couldn't have asked for a better protégé. Judging by what you've shown me."

"I-I don't know about that…" Violet-Blue orbs avert taking interest in corners of the room. "I was lucky she was always so patient with me. " Kamui fidgets, taking his hands from the veggies and playing with them together. "I learned a lot from my instructors at school and Sorata… as well."

There's a pang in Subaru's chest when he hears and feels his beloved's pained words. Beyond pain...is tremendous guilt. Subaru wishes more than anything he could lift that burden from his love. The grimace upon Kamui's seems so wrong. A look that made him spin Kamui around, and pulls him up to a tender comforting kiss. He planned to kiss the frown off his love's lips for as long as needed.

Kamui instantly responded to the embrace, the comforting little kisses. They parted for milliseconds before coming back together in a gentle, languid motion.

"You're amazing," Subaru reiterates his prior statement. He smiles against his love's lips before parting to say, "Not because of what you can do or have learned… which is impressive and very attractive enough."

"Subaru…" Kamui avoids his gaze. The words penetrated his heart more than enough for one moment. He knows he'd lose his sense of balance looking back right this second.

The arm around Kamui's slender middle coils in, hand resting at his lower back. Gently, he traces circles upon his sweetheart's back.

"You're amazing for being the person that you are," Subaru confesses, with every bit of emotion flooding from his heart. Adoration, compassion, desire, hope, and love are all tied into glistening gem-like orbs.

"Subaru…" Kamui mumbles, very hesitantly looking back. He expects it but it doesn't stop his heart from stammering and sappy words from pouting out. "You're the one who…" He paused, knees feeling weak as their eyes looked. "You're the 'amazing' one."

Kamui leans up on his tiptoes. His arms loop around broad shoulders for a chance at a deeper, more passionate kiss.

One of Subaru's hands comes to rest behind his neck. Fingers tickle the black hair there, causing Kamui to softly laugh into their kiss. It had to be one of the most blissful feelings in life. Kamui sounded so at ease, naturally happy.

"I love you," Subaru professes, eyes shivering with unbridled emotions.

"I love you too," Kamui returns, just as tenderly. Somehow no matter how often it's sad there is still that fluttering in his chest telling him, this is right. The shorter male is eager to pull down his precious person back for another round of soft, yet gradually deepening kisses.

"Always." Kamui coos against warm lips. There's definitely something embarrassingly good with this feeling. And there's something about being so at ease, and domestic that brings a peaceful flutter through his heart.

'I'm home.' A statement both males had found themselves lost in countless times.

---

Topics

Finishing their meal left the pair to their own devices, still lingering over the idea of going out or enjoying their home a bit longer. Kamui lay sprawled out on their couch, legs draped over his boyfriend's lap.

Subaru seemed engrossed in the paranormal special on TV. Even without his eyes entirely trained upon his beloved, he brushes a tender hand up and down Kamui's ankles to legs.

Kamui couldn't blame his boyfriend. It was hard to find shows with actual believability, one that didn't seem all played up for dramatics.

'A young psychic girl was sitting upon a vast stage, talking to the host about a spirit present. The details were eerily specific and a bit too strange to be something made up. Especially by someone so young. The girl shouldn't have detailed knowledge upon a lover's quarrel ending in such a gruesome demise.'

"She isn't holding a grudge for what happened. Her only goal before passing on is to see her lover, one last time…"

"Subaru?" Kamui calls softly, curious to see his boyfriend in an interesting state.

With no response, Kamui shook his head. He brushed his hand over his boyfriend's. The intrigue glowing upon dual-toned eyes made something in Kamui melt. He sat up and rested his head against his lover's shoulder. There was a smile at how Subaru's hand fell to pet the top of his head, even while still so focused.

When the commercial came, Subaru seemed to break out of things.

"Kamui?" Subaru turned away from the flashing screen, forgoing getting lost in his mind. "I'm sorry… I guess I kinda zoned out there."

"My poor boyfriend," Kamui returned the words by nuzzling his boyfriend's neck. He smirks upon feeling a little shiver from where his lips brushed. "Why do I feel your mind went back to work?" So the younger lover chooses to deliberately take his time planting deep kisses all along the unmarked neck. "You work too hard." Though there's only the tiniest red bite mark to show after that.

Feeling more confident than before, Kamui places his hands upon broad shoulder blades, massaging them elegantly. His lips purr out the words with a tone as seductive as he could manage. "No worries, we can remedy that…." Kamui leaned up, completely straddling his love and pinning him to the couch rest.

Truly, he thought he was getting somewhere. Subaru followed with the kisses, but the pace was a bit slower and lighter than Kamui was hand fanning through his raven hair seemed to be a good indicator he was into it. Yet, sadly Subaru shook his head.

"I'm sorry… I love this… everything with you…"

"But…?"

"I just…think there's one thing you should know… regarding what I found."

"I had a feeling we weren't quite done," Kamui gives a sympathetic smile, but nods. He squeezes his lover's hand in reassurance.

Subaru bowed his head, a bit of a habit from his younger self. "Sorry."

"Don't be." Kamui squeezes his hand tighter, pulling it to his cheek and nuzzling it. "I'm here."

Two words, so simple yet powerful enough with the right conviction. Subaru felt tension falling from his system.

'I have to believe in Kamui. The past is the if his former love is brought up again...he chose me, right?' Subaru lets worries flood over his thoughts.

"It's about the promised day and the other Kamui…" Subaru slips out as quietly as possible, as though speaking a notch louder would break something in his love.

"Oh…" Kamui hadn't expected going that deep. Just like that Subaru feels regret, wincing at the sight of his shaking love. Kamui's hands began shaking. To the point where he dropped their linked hands to the couch. The light in violet-blue eyes dimmed, seeming millions of miles away... His beautiful smile upon his lips fell further and further down.

"It's not something I planned to look into but…"

Kamui's eyes were shivering, welling up with emotion he didn't seem to be aware of himself. There was complete understanding he would be upset, suffering such loss, trauma. Kamui still carried the burdens felt by his belated loved ones.

"Oh, Kamui…" Subaru calls tenderly. He quickly scoops Kamui up into his arms, embracing the younger male protectively.

"Kamui…." Subaru takes a few short breathes, aching at the sight of emotion-bled trails raining down his love's cheeks. Silent, pained tears. Tears that have been shed countless times, feeling like second nature.

"I-I'm okay…" Kamui lies badly, tone terribly shaken. There is some sort of relief feeling the younger male fully returns the embrace. His eyes were watery but a bit less dimmed.

"No, you're not…it was stupid to bring up now…" Subaru berates himself, slapping a hand over his face. "We can take a break from this…" He kisses the crown of the raven-black head. Subaru keeps pulling his smaller lover tighter and tighter as though to hide him from all pain in the suffering.

"I-I still want to know…" Kamui admits, his words are shaky. His eyes seem to calm, at the sight of his beloved's worried, tender gaze.

All the kisses soothing every inch of the younger male's face do help matters. The way lips caress and kiss away newly shed tears is indescribable to the young Kamui's heart. Even if this is something done many times before, it feels the same as the first time.

"Subaru…" Kamui leans his pained face-up. His weary, reddening eyes seek for that same love and comfort only a lover could bring. "Please tell me…"

"Okay," Subaru simply leans down to let their lips brush. Barely a kiss, but still conveying affection.

"It seems to be connected with your family… and what I had said before is true… after the…" Subaru stops, looking into eyes that manage to show such much pain yet… devotion to him… stirs his heart.

Subaru broke off to indulge in comforting kisses all along Kamui's face. Gentle kisses meet with his lips, cheeks, nose, eyelids, and all over again. " After everything that happened. There is no preordained fate you're bound to or sacrifice further made."

"Oh…" Kamui adds on a little weakly. It's all too easy to get caught up in those haunting flashbacks. A nightmare that was their reality. The only feeling of security comes from the warm and adoring figure surrounding him. His fingertips move and dig painfully tight into his lover's shoulder blade. As usual, said lover never voices a complaint. He takes in the pain with Kamui's own.

"There's something written… it would be better to show you… but about a 'final' sacrifice for the earth…" Subaru watches carefully for every possible tear, quiver, and pained movement upon a beautiful face.

"Yes…" Kamui's voice cracks, feeling fresh tears brewing. Emotion falls slowly down his cheeks.

Subaru finishes as simply as possible. "It was written that 'a' Kamui would be the one to make this sacrifice but-"

"It never said which one…" Kamui finishes, his tone weakened. He gradually loosens his painful grip upon his protector's shoulders. Several slow drops of emotion pour out.

"So that was his wish…" He murmurs alongside each teardrop, heart aching at the epiphany.

'Fuuma… his wish… or his true wish… was to save me. After all, he must have known for some time… there could be only one future and one true Kamui. .'

"I'm so sorry Kamui… I wish I could do more… take every bit of pain from you." Subaru professes, with every ounce of pain and emotion inside of him. His own eyes begin to stir, welling with a pained emotion, and unfulfilled desire to keep Kamui from all the suffering this world brings.

Kamui can feel the desire to love and comfort his precious person. The older man mourns alongside his love, the best he can, knowing of his different yet parallel pain.

"It's not your fault," Kamui whispers, burying his watery face into the crook of his beloved's neck. The forced smile almost hurts more than the tears, it falls just as quickly. "I… know that was his wish… his choice."

"Maybe it's selfish to even think or say… but I'm so glad you're here with me now…that you survived. ."

"You're not selfish, Subaru." Kamui shakes his head. He continues to pour out warm tears, soaking the light fabric around his boyfriend's neck. "and if so… then I'm just as guilty. For wanting you here… wanting you to survive even if…." His labored breath follows as he winces his eyes tightly. "Even if you didn't always want that."

Kamui can't bring himself to look up after those words. But there are gentle fingertips that play at the bottom of his chin. He's guided to look up, before he can so much as gasp his heart is stolen once more. The sheer pure love in those emerald and gold eyes, left him feeling he was falling. Subaru was his only sense of gravity.

Countless, lingering, and insistent kisses follow. A hand comes to slide under silky hair at the back of his neck. Kamui feels he'd be unable to escape this kind of kiss, even if he wanted to.

There's a feeling of wholeness at just how intense the emotions coming through came. Their lips melded and caressed. The lover's lingered until they could taste the salty tears within the kiss.

"He loved you incredibly so, I'm sure wanted your happiness more than anything … because it's impossible not to love you," Subaru proclaimed boldly, looking deeply into shivering, watery eyes. "You will always be needed. I will always love you. Since I came back… I knew I would love you… even if I couldn't hold a place in your heart…"

Kamui takes the love-fueled confession as delicately as his heart can manage. All at once, he feared his heart might just burst. He closed his eyes, making sure he grasped the deep emotions pouring out.

"Subaru …" Kamui gingerly, plays with tear-soaked bangs hanging by his lover's eyes. He brushes them back delicately. "I know you had to go for a while and while it hurt…that didn't change anything. You've had a place in my heart since I met you, and that never once changed."

"My Kamui…" Subaru takes one of Kamui's hands, bringing it gingerly to his lips. He caresses each and every finger, the front and back of his precious one's hands.

"I… did worry…you wouldn't want to see me for some time… but you did return. I can't describe what that felt like." Kamui's lips curl up to a shaky but true smile. Even while in love with someone else… you managed to make my heart stir…

"As soon as I accepted reality… stopped drowning in my pain… I knew I needed to be right beside you." Subaru explains, softly and lovingly. "You're everything to me… no matter who you love, I know I can't stop this."

"But, Subaru, you are the one I love." Kamui ensured, peppering his boyfriend's jawline and cheeks with sugary sweet kisses. The lovesick teen speaks the words that soothe and break through a wall of insecurities. "You are the one I'm in love with. I feel it… might be impossible not to fall in love with you. "

The admission is a tender murmur, barely audible and impossibly quiet. They were already so close.

"Kamui…"

"And… I need to do so…" Kamui bites down on his lip before coming to a sense of a decision. Finally, he lunges forward, knocking his lover back against the couch. Subaru falls back instantly, letting out a brief grasp feeling his slender lover collapse on top of his.

Kamui leans up, placing a hand by either side of his beloved's head. "So… you're not allowed" With a slightly playful yet abashed smile he finishes. "To go anywhere… " He seals their lips together. "I need you too much."

Subaru brushes a hand to the back of flustered, tear-stained cheeks. "I won't be going anywhere, Kamui." His thumb brushes away stray tears, these of a hopeful emotion than ones prior. "I plan on living my life at your side. I will always protect you." He vows, leaning up to kiss addictive lips.

"And I'll stay alive, right beside you… so long as you still need me."

"Of course I do… always," Kamui dives down for another kiss.

"That's good," Subaru's voice lightens with a sense of mirth dancing in his eyes. "Because I plan on keeping you forever. So long as it's what you want… I want everything with you… Everything."

"You…." Kamui lets out a squeak at the heated tone which follows. Quickly, he ducks down to hide his pink cheeks into his lover's chest, allowing him to cool. There's a sense of rightness again. "I feel the same… " He softly let's out.

Subaru's lips beam brilliantly, allowing his cute lover to cool off for as long as needed. Though he couldn't deny his eagerness to continue with more intimacy when the chance arises. Now, it was perfect just lying in each other's arms.

They had their life ahead of them for countless more experiences.

After all, They wanted 'Everything' with each other.

---

Visit

Today was the day. At long last… The day Kamui would be officially introduced to his boyfriend's family. More specifically, Subaru's grandmother, his beloved's closest living relative, so this mattered most.

Though he was already considered part of the family, Kamui's anxiety came through. The desire to make a good impression, to show himself as a suitable partner for someone so incredibly kind.

So, quietly the loving pair waited for their ride to the family estate. Kamui sat at the edge of the loveseat, knee slightly shaking as his eyes blew up in size.

Beautiful eyes grow comically wide. The older lover is stuck between losing his breath and suppressing a soft laugh. Sitting further upon the couch, Subaru tugs his beloved back to his chest.

"Relax," Subaru gently, coos, fingers dangling through silky locks of black. Tender lips press and linger upon an all too beautiful neck. The younger man emits soft worried noises, between sighs and groans.

"I've never done this before…" Kamui begins again, insecurities washing away with him. His hands fold into the middle of his lap, nervously playing together. "So I…"

How to put it… 'Do I even seem like I suit him? Subaru's so kind, beautiful, and in control of his own powers. Needed by so many people.' Kamui puzzles himself in his thoughts, missing the elegant hands wrapping over his own, and arms keeping him closer.

"I want to make a good impression," Kamui pauses, subconsciously leaning back in the hold.

Surely, there was the age factor… but Kamui's status in society and connections with his own family were gone.

"You're kinda perfect," Kamui professes in a light-hearted tone. His heart races at the statement, with a slight flush, telling his boyfriend he believed this statement entirely.

"Kamui. If anyone is… no, what matters most is… " He stops himself, placing delicate kisses upon pale shoulders. "That you're perfect, to me."

Subaru blatantly gushes, face serious and eyes sincere as Kamui looks back. The weak, nerve-wracked smile seems to hold insecurities.

"Kamui, anyone can see how happy you make me… Subaru admits embarrassingly, with red tints on his cheekbones. "So that's more than enough." Those cheeks can't help but raise with every little smile, especially when they press upon even softer ones. "To show just how incredible you are." He finishes his declaration smoothly, turning Kamui's face back to steal a seductive kiss. It breaks before Kamui can properly respond or process.

"Subaru…" Kamui whispers, heart-stirring, and he feels gentle fingers brushing the hair at the back of his neck.

"But still I-"

Subaru doesn't let Kamui finish the self-doubt. Quickly, he becomes occupied with returning back to kissing and loving as much of his beloved's exposed neck without leaving any obvious marks.

Kamui gasps at the feeling of lips sucking upon the corner of his neck. "It's not fair when you do that…" He whines, despite tilting his head further for his love to continue on.

It felt like a tease. Especially when he was guided to turn and fall back onto the couch. Kamui's hands were pinned by his lover's and unable to do much more. And it was an absolute fantasy, Kamui would love it if they didn't have to leave so soon!

Subaru brings them nothing further than kissing, not enough to get them too riled up but… enough to draw out a reaction.

"I love how you react… all your sounds…" Lips continue peppering up and down entirely sensitive skin. There's a tease of teeth nipping at the crook of his neck.

"Ahh~ that place!" Kamui cries out in a needy tone. He attempts to steady himself by squeezing the hands placed over his own. "Subaru…." He whines. His older lover returns the gentle hand squeeze. Subaru may have released his hands after a gentle squeeze. It's too late, there's a feeling as though Kamui is sinking deeper. Becoming more and more lost in this...

"Your voice is soothing…." Subaru's gentle fingers glide through soft locks of hair. A touch so delicate it makes the receiver only crave more. Kamui bites his lip. "Like it's from the heavens," Subaru continues with his ministrations, leaning up briefly to kiss heated cheeks.

"Saying these things now… '' Kamui blushes. He yelps out. Usually, his lover was the one stopping him from going too far. "We-we'll have to go soon and-"

"Shh…" Subaru gently hushes easing up on his loving actions bit by bit. "Please, let me kiss you here a bit more… I want you to feel… to understand how precious you are to me."

"I...it's not that I don't love this!" Kamui cries out, clear frustration in his voice. Mostly, because where was this boldness earlier last night or even this morning… when they had more time. "But I...I want to seem presentable before we go."

Subaru pauses, thinking it through. For a moment, he continues merely pressing chaste kisses around the sensitive body. He brings Kamui up to hug him close. With a humming sound and a sigh of defeat he relents.

"Alright then…for now," Subaru says in slight defeat and dismay.

"For now?" Kamui can't help the flirtatious tone as his lips creep up in a coy smile. There was something about the words that brought out a warmth. He really was getting carried away?

"Yes."

"I'll hold you to that," Kamui beams at his boyfriend's flustered face. Of course, the older man was with him…quite flustered.

Their lips meet in a chaste kiss, not moving forward enough. There's merely the connection of lips on lips sealing them together like an unspoken promise.

Ding Dong

When the doorbell rings they're in a considerably lighter mood from their previous activities.

Moments later they're greeted by their chauffeur, bowing before the Sumeragi head. Their bags are swiftly and neatly taken from the pair and deposited into the trunk.

"Master Sumeragi," the man, dressed entirely formally, bows his head, and opens the door to the spacious backseat.

Its times like this Kamui is reminded just how much prestige his boyfriend has. He looks up at his boyfriend with sparkling violet eyes, they shiver a bit. He hesitates at the door.

'Do I even seem to suit you?' Kamui can't help his self-doubt. Sure, his family, from his mother's side, was incredibly powerful and influential, but it was from the shadows. He never grew up knowing that life, his belated family. More so he never lived like someone so entirely important.

"Are you okay, love?" Subaru comforts, voice warm and soothing to sensitive ears. He naturally picked up on his love's sudden silence. Subaru's glistening eyes lowered, shaky and worried. They focus only and always on his Kamui. Kamui broke from his thoughts and nodded dumbly. It was then he looked up to see what his boyfriend was waiting for.

"Well, we'll have to go take our seats then," Subaru explained with a slightly bemused smile. He waved towards the open door.

"Oh…" Kamui realizes his sudden halt and quickly hurries to slide into the car, his beloved entering soon after.

Their driver looked pleased seeing the couple. He nodded and closed the door before returning to his seat. Subaru kindly thanked the driver for his work, sweet and humble as though he weren't the most powerful and influential Onmyouji out there.

Then again Subaru never acted as someone better or more important than others. He never seemed to think that way either. His love was just as powerful as his spiritual ones and transcended all barriers.

'You're always so gentle.' Kamui gushes, thinking of all those sweet moments earlier. He takes a moment nearly halfway from buckling to realize something. He flushes, belatedly realizing his boyfriend's use of a pet name earlier.

The younger male sighs, it was already out there. Well, everyone seemed to pick up on their relationship anyway.

When Subaru turns to Kamui, raising a dark eyebrow, Kamui shakes his head. He gently grasps his love's hand marveling at how perfectly they always fit. Together. Always from now on.

"Please, don't worry...This will be fine. You're thought of quite highly," Subaru gently places his hand on top of Kamui's smaller one. He brings it to his lips. Kamui redden again… of course, the screen from the front to back seats was up… as the drivers had routinely done with the couple. Even before they were a couple actually.

Kamui chooses to simply relish in the open affection given. Nothing was so overt or obnoxious as some couples he knew on campus. There was nothing to keep hidden either. Perhaps, it was just the right level of public affection for them both.

"Thank You," Kamui says quieter than normal. He rests his head on his boyfriend's shoulder and closes his eyes. "I'm lucky."

Subaru takes a moment before seeing his love look up at him with deep admiration. He finds himself gazing into beautiful violet-blue doe eyes. The beams of sunlight create little stars amongst the sky of Violet-blue. The words process what Kamui meant. He kissed the top of the younger raven-black head. "I'm the one who's beyond 'lucky' to have you."

Kamui breathes out softly and contently. He feels his face warm-up, a slight but pleasant feeling pink. He can't suppress the smile. There was something about the words, the sincerity that made Kamui start believing they were both lucky to have each other.

"I think you'll like it there…" Subaru breathes out. "It's beautiful, suits you."

Kamui nuzzles into the base of his love's neck. Everything felt so warm, and the arm circling his waist, made him beam. "It suits you perfectly, Subaru. I'm just-" A finger pressed firmly to his lips.

"I don't think you understand just how incredible you are," Subaru openly gushed to his partner, eyes dazzling and lost in a love-filled abyss. Kamui manages to kiss and guide the finger away from his lips.

Kamui finds a bit more confidence and adds on. "Nor do you see how perfect you are," He returns, up with a gleeful smirk on his face. Something is entrancing when Subaru turns bright pink, it's endearing, even when Kamui knows he's in the same state.

"But you are beyond words, Kamui…"

"I can easily say the same...with you."

"Kamui," Subaru's voice comes out light as though issuing a challenge.

"Subaru," Kamui returns, mimicking the tone. He wasn't one to back down when it came from making his love understand he was the truly incredible one.

Of course, Subaru was not one to back down either, more than accustomed to lavishing his boyfriend with sweet words of praise.

Their eyes lock. Gold and emerald fall helplessly to violet-blue orbs once more. There's a serious gaze that follows. They're soon smiling, almost foolish. The tender words exchanged like a challenge bring them both to laughing. It's all they can do. There are certainly not enough words to express feeling quite like this.

There are no words needed. They let themselves fall into a comfortable silence occasionally engaging in sweet little kisses.

Somewhere along the way, Kamui finds himself falling asleep. It was a long trip. Cutely, he nuzzles his boyfriend's shoulder, the smile indicating a pleasant dream.

They drive through a vision of green. Traditional temples, gardens, and fountains surrounded the area. The distance from Tokyo to Kyoto was quite a bit… While Subaru had long been accustomed to countless hours traveling between jobs, it didn't mean the same for Kamui.

They took a brief break throughout the drive. For snacks, coffee, and the like. Kamui had taken out some of his light novels to read on the way there. But even with those, Kamui couldn't help himself from just wanting this. To bask in this alluring warmth. Something was soothing about his lover's soft voice. Subaru's fingers caressing the back of his hand leaving him all too relaxed.

Attempting to just rest on his boyfriend's shoulder turned into the lovesick teen falling asleep on the way. The long part of their drive was about finished, Subaru indulged in his lover cuddled up and sleeping peacefully.

"We're almost there, Kamui," Subaru calls, gently caressing the soft cheek. There's a cute little twitch following from the touch. His heart never fails to flutter as Kamui leans into his hand.

When those long eyelashes lift to reveal violet-blue eyes they take in everything. Kamui sits up a bit abruptly, eyes wide in awe and wonder.

The luxurious estate in Kyoto stood out beautifully. Traditional temple-style buildings were surrounded by countless green vibrant trees.

Blossoming flowers of all colors bloomed elegantly across vast gardens. If one listened closely you could hear the ripples upon the crystal blue waters surrounding the garden.

There was something so elegant and at peace. This place reminded Kamui of CLAMP school, not in scenery per se but the feeling, like this place, was untouched, hidden from the rest of the world and its impurities.

"This is your home?" Kamui asked, feeling entirely out of place. 'Of course, it suits you perfectly.' He thinks whimsically.

"Well, it's the Sumeragi Family's estate…I grew up and trained here so..technically yes?. " Subaru replies a bit humbly, scratching at his cheek. "But I also lived a large part of my life in Tokyo."

"It's so beautiful," Kamui comments with sparkling eyes. The intrigue and awe radiate off the younger male. His fingers press upon the edge of the window as though reaching out closer to grasp.

"You're moreso," Subaru voices gently, whispering to warming ears. Kamui feels and reacts to the love breathed into words. Yet, he finds himself lost in this….other part of his beloved's world.

"My home is in Tokyo," Subaru clarifies, squeezing Kamui's hand tightly. "With you. No place could hope to compare."

Kamui's lips quirk at the sincerity of the words. He whips his head around and presses a thankful kiss upon his sweet boyfriend's lips.

"You know that, right Kamui?"

"I know…and I feel the same," Kamui acknowledges slowly, gazing out as they come closer to their destination. "It's just… a lot to take in…" Kamui holds a hand up, presses a finger to his lover's lips. "In a good way, I mean…" He pauses, waving his hand around gesturing towards the lush and elegant greenery around them. "It suits you so well."

'Of course, my perfect boyfriend was raised somewhere like this.' Kamui ponders unsure whether he's more smitten learning more about his love or intimated to be seen as an equal partner to him.

"Kamui…" Subaru met with that smile, dazzling and brighter than anything shining above could hope to compare to. "Thank you but…" He breathes against tender lips. Their mouths brushed meeting for gentle caresses, slow and steady.

Their foreheads met between gentle kisses, touches, innocent yet entirely everything. "This right here…I know. " A hand gently gestures between their close bodies. "Suits me the best." The warmth from their closeness and light intimacy makes the Sumeragi head fall hopelessly into his lover's abyss.

Kamui couldn't deny how happy that statement had made him. The shimmer in his eyes and lovesick curl to his lips told his boyfriend everything.

'Wherever you are Kamui… that's where I wish to be.' Subaru decides with an angelic curl to his lips.

---

Destination

When they arrived parked before a spacious guest host, Kamui felt reality sinking in, he definitely wasn't in Tokyo. Nor was this place like the beaches in Okinawa, where he grew up.

Though perhaps if he knew his family more, he too would have more comfortability in more formal places. For his boyfriend, and being well-liked by family, it may be something Kamui needs to become more accustomed to.

Kamui gulped, zoning out as though in a daze as his boyfriend saw the family chauffeur off. He nervously brushed through the dark raven bangs streaming down to his neck.

"Maybe we should have taken the bullet train on the way here…" Subaru says, tone slightly guiltily. "I guess I just really did want more alone time for the trip up here." Leaving out the: 'I wanted you to be as comfortable as possible on the ride over here.' His young lover's nerves were quite apparent the past week, and bringing that out again didn't seem helpful.

Kamui only ducks his head in response, looking up at the expensive and temple-style of a guest house. There's a mix between the traditional Japanese 'Machiya' townhouse and a more modern style of architecture. The home was entirely luxurious, tall, and made from some kind of antique-looking wood. It was almost like stepping back in time, at least from the outside.

"I'm happy you got to see a bit more of Kyoto this way," Subaru comments, again, chuckling softly. He sees Kamui's violet-blue eyes widen, entirely doe-eyed. Kamui absently nods, mind going a million miles a minute.

There was a brilliant garden area peeking from the back of the building. The sound of rushing water soothed the young man's senses, as he took in more. Trees and plants were blessed with bright, colorful, and pure flowers. Surely, even more, greenery would be surrounding the back of the temple-like house.

Of course, more modern luxuries were added on, extra security on the entrance differing from more historic sliding doors. Likely, inside more modern pieces of furniture and electronics would be adorned. At least that's what Kamui could catch looking in through the window, along with the new-looking velvet sofa.

Gorgeous violet-blue eyes widened, nerves fully kicking in. 'We're actually here.' This came to the point where he hadn't noticed his precious person walking up behind him and pulling him into a tight embrace. "Ah-!" Kamui lets out a sharp yelp, caught off guard.

"Kamui…" Subaru breathes warmly into his ear. "My Kamui, Getting to see your expressions on the drive over here," Subaru pursues a little fondly. Lips press a lingering kiss to Kamui's neck before slowly moving back. "That was a bit self-indulgent of me."

"Oh?" Kamui murmurs, leaning his head back to look his boyfriend in the eyes. Something in his stomach starts doing backflips again. His eyebrows furrow slightly, thinking through the comments. "Do I act oddly?"

"Not at all," Subaru quickly shook his head. He leaned over as his sweetheart looked up, to capture Kamui's lips in an upside-down kiss. "Your reactions are beautiful. I love the way your eyes sparkle taking in something new."

Gradually, Subaru spun Kamui around to face him. Softly and a little sultry he professes. "You're quite alluring."

"Subaru…" Kamui flushes, cheeks blooming bright shades of red. Though it's not unpleasantly so. The younger male shyly averts his eyes, letting his breath and heart catch up with him.

"When you say things like that, I…" Kamui murmurs, soft and meekly. Then quieter than before "I…" Want you more. He assumed his beloved already knew the thought. At the least, Subaru looked content, there was a bit of amusement dancing in his eyes.

Often, words were not either of their strong suits. Yet, it was getting better when it came to expressing love and how amazing the other was to them. Kamui opted to go forward with actions as he turns around. His thin arms start looping around his lover's neck. There's a curl to his lips seeing reds and pinks blossom on his lover's face. The tone only deepens the closer they become. So, Kamui leans up to his tiptoes to place a long, and deserving kiss on the taller male's lips.

Of course, the adorable and flirtatious Kamui is far too much for Subaru not to react to. As done, several times before, he lifts his beloved from his feet, insistently returning the chaste kiss. There's a laugh, light, airy and angelic which falls from plush lips.

The younger man is gently deposited, upon the front doorstep to the elegant guesthouse. Hands roam up and down Kamui's sides, causing him to gasp sweetly. Those same lips are stolen, again and again, each kiss pushing further, with more need.

Somehow, along the way, they're led inside. Skillfully, the older man manages to take the key from his pocket. His hand stays steady enough, even while Kamui starts lavishing his jawline with tender little kisses. From there it's much easier to turn the knob, open the door and quickly close it shut.

The pair's expressions bloom a brilliant rose pink, as they come to a temporary halt. Kamui counts about 2 seconds where he can admire the soft ivory and soft-blue furniture before he feels a tug. The larger hand on his wrist pulls him back to this feeling of euphoria. They're lost the second they lock eyes. Gazing helplessly, breathless and needy, they reach for one another.

Kamui finds himself backed up against the door. There's not even a remote thought to pull away, especially with something like this coming out from his often hesitant boyfriend, never failing to make his chest and stomach do flips. The shorter boyfriend is entirely eager to pull his precious person in for more heated kisses. Ones only teased before the trip over, as being too worked up, while having hours to go on the road wasn't quite ideal.

Now, though they had this time, privacy and security to do as they liked. Truly, the tender presses of lips, and hands sliding under the back of Kamui's shirt, leave his mind blissful. A perfect distraction from his past worries.

There's no way to imagine he was anything but loved especially at times like these. Every little touch is so incredibly tender and always manages to ignite a spark inside.

"Ah… don't we… " Kamui thought of mentioning something, but the skinship left him further breathless. Somehow it didn't seem important. He gripped the back of his boyfriend's neck, further pulled his taller lover down for a more sensual kiss. The latter held no complaints.

There was a smooth motion. Their mouths were accustomed to this addictive pace. Deep, lingering, and heated presses of their lips left the pair entirely gone.

"Mnnnn," Kamui mewls, sensually to his lover's ears. Feeling slightly larger and tender hands holding his cheeks so gently. Their mouths kept caressing one another, tongues met in a seductive yet all too enamored dance of sorts. Kisses were slow yet addictingly deep. Something they hadn't gotten to finishing this morning.

Something in the back of Kamui's head told him they wouldn't go further here. Not when they still had an important meeting. For now, staying right here worked perfectly fine. He would at least tell himself that.

'It's been so long...since…' Kamui thinks breathless, heart screaming at the thought. "You've touched me…"

Their mouths only break for the briefest breaks for air, before it's right back to one another. Even then there's something all too intimate, as their noses brush together in sweet kisses.

A gentle hand grasps Kamui's side, whilst the other runs up and down perfectly soft skin. The younger lover purrs further inviting and leaning into the touch upon his back. Kamui slips the hand upon his beloved's neck, traveling it through a silky black hair before tugging gently.

"Ka-" Subaru cries out in somewhat of a surprise, Kamui seals their lips until they are locked completely. A part of him wishes he was able to tease while staying calm and in control. There just wasn't a world he could imagine where he wouldn't be so reactive to every touch.

'Hopefully, we'll go even further...one day.' There were still a few aspects of their physical relationship unexplored. An intimacy that would surely only create more love and trust between them. Of course, there was a time and place for these things. The longer this continued the harder it became to recall it.

Before his dark eyelashes could close, Kamui took in the often hard-to-see highlights of his lover's hair. The hues range between a deep emerald and dark forest green. They blend within the raven-black, but with the bright sun out, and superb lightning, Kamui could finally catch this. Again, it was something bringing out a mystical look of his incredible love.

"You're so gorgeous," Subaru slips out, catching the curious doe eyes. The hint between blue and purple was enchanting enough to put anyone in a trance. Surrounded by ivory skin dusted with pink and red, it completed a sensual and breathtaking sight. The tint of his love's expression only makes his angelic eyes more exposed, and brilliant. So curious, and needy hands return with a passion left behind from this morning, brushing up and down the slender sides.

"Mnnn….but…you're also..." Kamui takes a deep breath, as much air as he can get before being taken into the sweet little abyss. His lips part considerably, letting in every deep and sultry movement deep inside. Subaru groans appreciatively, into the addictive mouth, licking and claiming every centimeter he can of the wet cavern. "Haven't you ever seen yourself in the mirror?"' Kamui finishes his thought, breath hitching. The words fall between a dreamy and heated tone.

As if there was doubt, to this attraction, Kamui's thoughts are only solidified as he takes in enchanting, and bright and emerald orbs lower, becoming half-lidded, gazing deep, and darkening. Those dimmed eyes become engulfed by blown-out pupils. The darkness gives way to more light, as little dots of white, appear like stars amongst the forest and gold-sunset sky. It's times like this, Kamui feels himself with confidence and assurance. Subaru was only looking at him. 'Even if they're not the same color as they used to be...This emotion can only be from Subaru.'

Subaru was partially aware of his lover's occasional insecurities, and worries. Thankfully, it was something fading to the past, as they had been reminded, again and again, those they loved before were just that, part of their past.

There's something akin to a little bit of a groan and growl, as Subaru notes, the way Kamui's lips stay puckered and parted. His young lover's face is entirely flushed, while he shivers at the smallest of touches to his hips. Checking out the breathless, reddened lips, he takes an initiative to bite them, not enough to leave a terribly obvious mark, but enough to make Kamui cry out and cling to his shoulders. Lips tenderly lick the wounded spot, before entering a sensitive cavern once more.

"Maybe we should.." Subaru starts his thoughts, noticing his lover's legs going a little wobbly. Kamui blinked, curiously at the pauses, and hesitated in his boyfriend's voice. "Move...to…." There was some contradiction within his tone. Of course, moving somewhere Kamui could rest would be ideal. He begins by sliding his palms under his lover's soft thighs and lifting him. "Somewhere…."

They had a few hours before Kamui would be meeting with his perceptive grandmother. It was embarrassing enough how easily she realized Subaru had fallen head-first for the world's mostly unknown savior. Surely, he didn't wish to present himself as being so out of control, even if that was exactly the case.

"Somewhere?" Kamui repeats between kisses with a little laugh. He smiles at the way he can easily rest their temples together from this height.

Subaru knows how helpless he's become, as his heart speeds up from his lover's teasing laugh. That angelic smile, and soft gasps, made his cheeks flare and expression melt. He was put into Kamui's hand, which caressed his cheeks so lightly. "Alright."

"My angel…" Subaru breathes into the younger male's ear, enough to feel the shiver against him.

"We might want to take our things in first," Kamui mentions, a little bit coy and bemused. As though he hadn't forgotten until now. There's a sense of ease, running through him, as he watches his lover process. Subaru's dark eyebrow raises for a moment. Kamui waves vaguely back towards the door.

"Oh...right…" Subaru mentions, voice cracking slightly. Slowly, he decides to carry and deposit Kamui over onto a silky grey-blue lounge chair. "I'll bring them in," Subaru clears his throat, sheer embarrassment at how helpless he had become to his intimate desires.

Kamui pouts slightly. "I can help," he replies, not unused to the doting side of his lover. He was just as 'responsible' for their love-fest. Subaru quickly shakes his head. "I'll be quick. Stay here?"

Kamui's cheeks light up. He averts his eyes a bit shyly at what might follow after... "Where else would I want to be?" He leans upon his tip-toes, whilst his hands move to caress Subaru's cheekbones.

"Kamui…" The beam upon the older boyfriend's lips told Kamui he was happy with the response. Quickly, and efficiently, Subaru turns on his heel and swiftly opens the door, effortlessly lifting and rolling their luggage and carrying it over the threshold.

So eventually, they come to a pause. The time away lets Kamui's breath catch up with him. He can't deny he's eager to see his lover returning towards him. He stands up, only to gently nudge Subaru to sit upon the lounge chair, before climbing back on top.

"Where were we?" Subaru lightly asks, brushing silky locks of hair behind the other's ear. Kamui laughs slightly, before tilting his head and continuing on with the much-needed makeout session.

---

Meeting

After lingering and distraction, the pair had made it past the living room, and into their main bedroom. The room had similar, wooden walls, expansive windows, and a long sliding door, separating the house from the garden outback. Of course, the bed was lifted a bit higher, more modern, and certainly big enough for the couple to share.

Kamui sat at the edge of the bed. With beautiful cloud-white duvets, they looked every bit as light and comfortable as they looked. Subaru kneeled at the other side of the bed, his suitcase, opened on its side, as he took out a few things: different books, paper talismans, and bags of what could be assumed to be several bags of protection charms.

"I'm not used to things like this…" Kamui admits, worriedly, glancing down at him. There is a nervous, quivering his lips. Subaru understands immediately what his little lover is grasping at. The sight of Kamui's feet dangling above the floor, makes him soften. Subaru's tender fingers wrap around and grasp hold of one of the ankles.

"I know," Subaru whispers, sympathetically. He smiles at the way Kamui's eyes bulge in size, watching as lips press down upon the top of Kamui's foot. "But we'll be together. You'll soon see that there isn't need to worry." As though he were some revered prince. Though when Kamui turned back, never able to look away for too long, he knew this was something deeper. The adoration and love-lit eyes, brought up a heavenly aura, to his beloved. Certainly, a desire was mixed amongst the worshipping kisses.

"Grandmother's seen, how much you've changed me, Kamui," Subaru persists, looking satisfied. He grabs hold of Kamui's left foot, this time with fingers surrounding the sole. "And how deeply you've affected me." The front of the foot is brought to be kissed and lavished. "She already adores you." He continues, smirking slightly, as the heated cheeks, and shifting eyes of his flustered beloved.

"I-if you say so…" Kamui mutters, under his breath. When his feet were freed from tender kisses, he hurriedly moved on to bring them back up. However, his older lover is a bit more stubborn, holding on tight. "It goes both ways you know…"He clarifies to the wandering eyes. "You've changed my life."

This time, Kamui feels a little bolder, as he caresses all across his lover's cheeks and jawline. "I can't imagine mine without you, Subaru." His fingers grazed across the back of his beloved's neck, around the shoulder blades, and down to his chest. Kamui's hand delicately comes to a halt at the beating heart beneath.

Subaru isn't able to keep himself from being at level with his love any longer. He comes up to his feet, lifting Kamui by the hips, before shifting him further back upon the mattress. In one swift and fluid movement, he's pinned his precious person to the soft bed. He steals Kamui's lips in a ravenous kiss, one that speaks thousands of words in his heart, he couldn't yet form to speech. There would be far too much to voice, what with everything his lover brought to him.

So the kisses, followed up, passionate but without a sense of rush. There wasn't a need nor the time for more indulgence, so the pair found themselves rolling back onto their side, exchanging sweet little kisses. "I'll be right here with you, Kamui."

"I Know…" Kamui voices against soft, pale-pink lips. He closes his eyes, breathing in this feeling, before the inevitable...he hopes he can be seen as favorably as his kind boyfriend described it.

---

Family Meeting

"Relax," Subaru whispers, holding tightly to Kamui's shaky hand. His fingers entangle with Kamui's and his thumb caresses the back of the hand. He takes the other to knock-noticeably, but not overly loud as though to disturb the peace surrounding the estate.

So they were here. Kamui glanced up, seeing his beloved now swapped from his earlier casual black jeans to more silky dress pants and a properly ironed and pressed white the wrinkles on their clothing from prior...activities made it necessary for some change. Kamui fought off the urge to tug at the proper form-fitting attire he wore beside his lover. The couple matched with the same exact shade of black and white. Something about that detail was comforting, they outwardly suited each other.

Kamui couldn't say it was comfortable but not as bad as he imagined. Everything was so pressed, and polished, and tucked in neatly. It reminded Kamui of his school uniform, albeit with a more expensive silk top. Something his lover took him to buy, without giving a hint of the price range.

Sounds of ripples, in the flourishing ponds, are heard around the building. The large temple held even more of an heir of prestige. This was not simply a regular family residence. The temple structure was only a single story but entirely long and vast. Traditional, sliding doors could be seen at the back. The wooden material appeared even older than the guest house, yet without remote signs of deterioration. Everything still stood so tall, as though stepping back in history.

Sounds of footsteps approached the doorway, Kamui's hand grasped his beloved's in an almost crushing hold. Subaru was accustomed to his lover's actions and strength, he soothed Kamui with sweet and delicate little whispers. "Shhh," He hushes him tenderly. "I'll be right here," Subaru assures, warmly, and breathes softly all across the sensitive ear. His thumb caressed the tenses upon the top of the younger man's hand.

The motion is young man lets out a forgotten and tense breath. He feels his chest scrunch up at the sound of the door opening. Kamui barely manages to stop himself from bowing and addressing the young woman answering the door, as 'Lady Sumeragi.' He slightly flushes, feeling the heat from his own ears, as his eagerness.

'My Grandmother is certainly strong, but hasn't been quite the same since she came to save me…' Subaru mentioned earlier on his first love's betrayal and Grandmother's sacrifice to keep Subaru in one piece. 'She's certainly capable, but I've managed to convince her to live partially with the help of attendants if nothing else so she wouldn't be alone.'

So this was one of those attendants. The young woman appeared to be somewhere in her early thirties, her brown hair was neatly tied into twin tails. She wore a professional, dark-blue dress suit with the top and skirt reminiscent of a traditional Yukata.

"Master Sumeragi," She greeted formally, bowing fully before the 13th Sumeragi head. She hadn't eased in formalities, not even while Subaru waved and gestured for her to be at ease. It couldn't be helped with her professional nature. Her eyes quickly turned to Kamui, eyeing him with curiosity before they brightened. She looked between the pair of lover's sensing their relationship immediately, even if they were not currently, holding hands.

"Lady Sumeragi has been expecting you both," She expresses, waiting patiently for the powerful and beautiful couple to enter into the home. "She's waiting in the gardens," She explains, walking forward and leading them towards the back of the house. Though when they get closer, Kamui does grasp for Subaru's hand again and isn't the least bit willing to let go of his source of comfort.

"Lady Sumeragi," The brunette calls, opening the sliding doors, revealing a vibrant garden outside. Upon the back is a long wooden porch, where the twelve Sumeragi heads are waiting expectedly. This would be their first meeting. Kamui notices the older woman, gracefully seated upon the deck. She turns within her wheelchair easily enough, facing the two young lovers at the door. Her usual mobility came at a cost (though to her, a necessary one compared to saving Subaru's life). Although the older woman seemed anything but incapable.

Her eyes were firm when they looked up and down her grandson. It had been something as a habit, wanting her family to show the most proper versions of themselves. She could sense the aura surrounding others like this. Subaru indeed stood tall and properly, eyes warm and understanding. His aura was considerably warm, calm, and with a sense of joy. When he turned to his beloved, it was almost blindingly bright.

"It's good to see you again Grandmother," Subaru greeted, entirely open and with nothing but assurance and compassion radiating from him. He looks his closest family in the eyes and bows his head graciously, always having a deep respect for the woman who taught him so much. One who despite her strictness, had done everything for the sake of Subaru. He needed to fully control and grasp the incredible powers he was gifted with, for the sake of himself and those closest to him.

"And this must be Kamui," Lady Sumeragi surmised, already fond of the way this young man who stayed so close to her grandson's side. He was clearly the one bringing such a love-sick smile, and a sense of vitality into the once voided Sumeragi heir.

The source of the warmth and stark white light white surrounding Subaru was right at his side. There was such tenderness and love openly shown through the simple action of linked hands. Kamui was nervously pressed against his taller boyfriend's sides, squeezing the hand on his own for reassurance.

"Yes, this is Shirou Kamui," Subaru clearly introduced, gesturing with a hand not being squeezed to death. He whispered a few sweet words that made Kamui pinken, but ease in his nerves a bit. Mostly, he was blissful to announce, "The person I love most."

Despite vocalizing the words even his own cheeks can't help but bloom with bright colors. There's nothing that felt more freeing, and perfect than this right now.

The older woman stayed silent for a short moment. It was not a suffocating silence, a short calming sense as she looked over the couple. Her demeanor softened moreso upon seeing the nervous young man. There was a sense of reverence, gleaming within her eyes. not from the immense heavenly power the teenager exhibited, but rather, how close the young man stood at her grandson's side. There was the light, and emotion this 'Kamui' seemed to bring out of Subaru's once listless eyes, as easily as breathing.

"I can see that," She responded with a teasing smile. Of course, the pair shared a tender, intimate look only capable, of not just lovers, but those who were truly bound by fate itself.

"It's…" Kamui took a breath, stepping forward. He glanced back at this boyfriend's shimmering eyes for reassurance. "It's really nice to finally meet you," he responded, ensuring to press forward with as much politeness as possible. "Lady Sumeragi." He manages to look directly into the pair of eyes that had the same shade of emerald as his beloved possessed. Her silky white hair was partially tied up with a golden hair-broach. The remainder of her long hair cascades down her back and over her shoulders.

Kamui bows his head, taking in as much strength as he can. This was so out of his element. This was for Subaru. The young man took a breath, calming himself with his raven-black head. "Th-thank you for inviting me here," he greets, hoping whatever tone he emitted seemed suitable for one who was introduced as the esteemed Sumeragi's head love-interest. He hoped with everything he had, he was making a good impression.

Yet, he wasn't expecting the amused laughter to slip out. Just a soft chuckle, with a sense of mirth and fondness. She covers her mouth to avoid making her grandson's beloved going anymore wide-eyed and panicked.

"Please, don't worry," The often stern woman's deep-green eyes brightened, softening a bit as she noticed the young man her grandson fell so hard for, tense and slightly shaky. The way Subaru instantly comes to gently brush his hand up and down his beloved's arm, looking at Kamui as he was everything. 'See it's going well.' She catches Subaru hushing to his younger beloved.

Kamui nods at his lover's words. They seemed to bring out a sense of bravery. Despite his nerves, keeps eye contact, listening intently for her next words.

"Kamui, you can rest assured, I've long since accepted you and your relationship with Subaru." She turns her gaze to her clearly smitten grandson, looking to Kamui as though he were the only light in this world. "You clearly bring him happiness, I haven't seen for some time, and that's more than enough for me."

Kamui blinks, looking back at his lover with hopeful eyes. "Thank you, so much," Kamui voices whole-heartedly. "So so much," Kamui expresses, body feeling considerably lighter, holding to his lover's arm, as though to keep himself grounded. His heart pounding wildly at the acceptance, as his body eases its tension. Tight, worry lines on his youthful face soothe, creating an even more enchanting sight, specifically to his admiring boyfriend. The beautiful pair of lovers share a long, endearing look, speaking volumes between them.

"Thank you, Grandmother, I'm so happy I'm able to introduce Kamui to you," Subaru warmly and openly expresses his gratitude.

Subaru couldn't hide the warmth and sheer bliss inside. He felt considerably lighter, and about ready to melt, seeing Kamui with such a hopeful smile on his way Kamui rested his head back against his arm, was so innocently affectionate, yet entirely lethal to his heart. He knew Kamui's happy smile and little hums were a lethal drug that he would never fathom quitting.

"As you can see, he's entirely perfect," Subaru slips out, getting lost into the brilliant violet-blue doe eyes. Though he doesn't dare retract the gushing statement.

The doting words come as a slight surprise to both his lover and grandmother. Honestly, more so the fact he vocalized them so easily. The feeling there was plenty obvious.

"Subaru!" Kamui's cheeks rushed up with blood, heating all across his cheekbones. There was a slight urge to lift Kamui off his feet, and happily spin his beloved around. Of course, that would be under other circumstances, with more privacy. Their eyes locked, temporarily entering their own little world, though it wasn't for long.

"Yes, I'm happy to see you both quite smitten," Lady Sumeragi announces, clearing her throat. The pair break from their bubble, flustered and avoiding eye contact, as to not get lost any further. At least, not until they were fully alone. At this rate, it was hard to say if they'd be going elsewhere today, whether to training temples or the vast libraries. "Now, with introductions over. Why don't we head inside for some tea." She exerts, looking seriously into her grandson's eyes.

"It can be quite a drive over here. Subaru, I would like to think, you are not one to leave, your beloved Kamui waiting for too long." She addresses with a mixture of concern and light-hearted amusement. Something that wouldn't have been fathomable for Subaru to see, in his adolescence. Still, there was a familiar, firmness, that she was expecting of her grandson to take superb care of his beloved.

"Oh, no of course not, Grandmother," Subaru responded, politely, gesturing towards an adjacent tea-room in the house.

"Good," She exudes with a sense of resolution. "It wouldn't do for the head of the Sumeragi family to be anything but, proper during your courtship."

At this point, said leader, was partially expecting something to slip out of his grandmother's mouth. It didn't keep him from becoming as frozen and flustered as his boyfriend. She was accepting of her grandson being attracted to men, and he was grateful. It seems she upheld traditions strongly, even if it meant embarrassing the clan leader in front of his special someone.

Kamui finds his mind coming to a standstill. His mouth hangs open, taking in the words which follow. "C-courtship?" He murmurs, to his less phased lover, with wide-timid eyes.

"I-it's nothing to worry about…."Suddenly, his nerves returned, albeit for an entirely different reason. He could feel heat passing from even his ears. His heartbeat was loud enough to resound through his chest.

"We can talk more about that later," Subaru whispers back, only reddening further. Mainly, this was because he didn't find himself disliking the idea of one single bit. Of course, more in the future tense than right now.

"Grandmother has her own ideas about these things.." Or scarily accurate fortunes."But there isn't anything to worry about or any changes happening." He clarifies, easing his boyfriend's worries, mostly.

"Alright," Kamui nods, considering asking more about this later on.

Lost in thought the younger man is led into the tea-room, where Subaru's grandmother is sitting by an old-fashioned round table. The family attendant from before begins pouring the steaming cup of tea.

She turns back to see two young men taking their own seats at the other end of the table. The young attendant smiles brightly greeting the guests. "Would Royal Milk Tea be acceptable for you two? Or should I brew something else?"

Subaru turns to Kamui before coming to a response. The younger male shakes his head. "Anything is fine with me."

Subaru can't help but be enamored, he responds with a smile to the kind woman. "Milk Tea sounds great." She nods at this, carefully pouring the cup of warm, light-brown tea into both of the floral teacups.

"I'll bring out some desserts," She assures, taking her leave. "I had heard you have quite a liking for them, " The brunette adds fondly, looking towards Kamui who nods meekly. The kind woman clearly recalls past conversations the Sumeragi leader held about his special someone. Always gushing and never able to keep the curl off his lips for long.

This comment prompts Kamui to look accusatory at his boyfriend. Subaru holds a hand over Kamui's own tenderly.

"I guess that might have slipped out," Subaru admits with a slight brush of his fingertip to his cheek.

It's hard because Kamui can't even stay remotely upset. Not with how mushy, his boyfriend looked, admitting how he came up (frequently), in conversation. And it wasn't as though anything bad was said.

The young woman holds a hand to her cheek, watching fondly as the loving couple interact. She quickly disappeared behind a corner taking her to leave.

"So, Kamui," Lady Sumeragi spoke out again. She held a graceful smile on her lips, while her eyes sprung with something entirely curious. The waves of power, perceptibly untamed, were intriguing. There was no malice found with it, just inexperience. The psychic energy simply radiated around Kamui's system creating a bright ray of light around his figure. "I'd like to know more about you. You're currently a student in high school, are you not?"

Subaru found himself lightly wincing and pursing his lips, before clenching Kamui's hand tightly. The younger male looked up with concerned eyes but found it not the best time to inquire. Perhaps, the age gap was bothering him more than expected.

More specifically, there were parallels, Subaru too being just a student when he met and fell for Seishirou.

"Yes, I'm attending CLAMP school," Kamui answered simply. He took a pause, brushing a hand gently up his boyfriend's arm for comfort. Gradually he turned back. Subaru's grandmother didn't seem as bothered as his boyfriend was acting. Not a bit disapproving. "Although I'm close to graduating, I'll be starting my final year soon."

"That's wonderful. It's quite a prestigious school to be accepted into," Lady Sumeragi ensures with a congratulatory tone. Even if CLAMP school had come up before, hearing directly from Kamui Was nice.

"Well, it's more...of my destiny with...the past year that got me accepted," Kamui abashedly explained. His tone weakly, pausing for a few moments. Beautiful and nervous eyes feel looking down on his own lap.

Subaru took his lover's hand, letting his fingers caress all over the soft skin of his beloved. Assuredly, shook his head. There was that little gleam in his eyes and a serene smile that made Kamui feel hopeful.

"Kamui's worked incredibly hard at CLAMP school, and showed through his classes, he entirely belongs there," Subaru interjected gently, slightly, or more than slightly gushing.

"I would believe that to be true, surely you owe yourself some credit for the work you've put in." Subaru's grandmother was much easier on Kamui. There was a warmer tone she used with the insecure teen, something Subaru was grateful for.

"Th-Thank you," Kamui stumbled, a bit with his words. Feeling fingers locked within his own, the way Subaru held to him so openly, brought out a sense of strength. "Subaru has been an incredible help, it would be wrong not to mention that."

Kamui felt the need to mention his precious person. His sense of humility gained favor in the older woman's eyes. Though the young male has brought back Subaru's light, and his heart, so truly there was nothing that could be said which would sway her from thinking so highly of Kamui.

"I can see you're quite fond of each other," She suspected with quite a lot of confidence.

The pair of young lovers met each other's tender gaze. Their eyes were lit up with starry gleams, and helpless smiles. They both nodded, a tad flushed, causing the older woman to chuckle briefly.

"For that, I'm very glad," Lady Sumeragi spoke in relief, feeling a weight lifting the more she interacted with the loving couple.

"I'm so lucky to have Subaru in my life," Kamui expresses his thoughts, trying not to fall too hopeless or sound like he felt on the inside. A total mess.

"Kamui…" Subaru coos his beloved's name, wanting to kiss his love for the words. He settled with a quick press to the top of his head.

"The desserts are all prepared now." The voice of the kind attendant rang through the air. She brought out several plates of colorful macaroons, along with an exquisite green tea cake. Both plates were presented beautifully, the macaroons arranged to create a flower upon the green cake was drizzled with a light chocolate syrup upon the top.

"Thank you, this looks wonderful," Lady Sumeragi had told the younger woman. The attendant smiled brightly at the praise. "I'm happy you think so, I hope it's to your liking," She spoke so modestly, placing the cakes upon the table. She bowed politely before taking her leave, mentioning some other task to attend to around the home.

Kamui was eager to take a bite of his own little cake, the sweets a nice distraction. He needed time to think over just how he could best answer the questions while seeming like a good match for the esteemed Onmyouji beside him.

Violet-blue eyes sparkled at the sweet taste, his lips curling up sweetly. Unknown to him, he had gained quite the admirer, though it should be expected. Subaru was entirely smitten with him, and looking at the small dollop of whip cream beside Kamui's mouth was tempting…

'If we were anywhere else.' Subaru found himself thinking. Seeing Kamui lick his lips happily felt like a painfully unexpected tease.

"You're quite a fan of desserts," Lady Sumeragi commented with a sense of amusement.

Adorably, Kamui flushed bright red. His cheeks lifted to laugh a bit nervously. "Ah...yes, I really like baking them too." Then another thought sprung to words. "As well as cooking."

"Is that so? That's certainly an important skill to possess."

"Thank you," Kamui ducks his head slightly. "I'm not sure how 'skilled' I am now, but I learned a lot from my mother before…" Kamui quickly cleared his throat, feeling his lover's concerned eyes upon him. "More recently from my classes on campus."

The older woman quite gracefully took a sip from her tea, looking fondly over the young man that captured Subaru so completely. When no other could.

"I'm relieved to hear that. Of course, Subaru is entirely gifted with what he does, His powers being the most incredible, out of all past generations," She starts with praise, easing into the point. "Although, he hasn't been quite as gifted with the culinary arts."

"Grandmother!' Subaru cries out, cheeks reddening, slightly mortified his grandmother spoke so easily of that. Though maybe it wasn't a secret. Kamui's stifled laughter was quite adorable.

The younger man brightens, a shimmer in his eyes. He reflects, "I know he works so hard and hasn't had the time before to learn. But Subaru cooks with me sometimes, and does very well." Kamui defends his boyfriend, leaving out the many incidents of burned food and injuries learning to properly chop vegetables. "I really am happy I can teach him something, after all, that he's helped me with."

Something was glowing around the young man as he breathed those words. Truly, he held the smile and light of something ethereal, straight from the heavens.

"You both seem to complete one another," Lady Sumeragi had stated matter of factly, simply taking a sip of her tea. All of it as though she hadn't spoken words that brought tremendous relief to the youngest in the room.

Kamui couldn't hide the joy he held back for anything. He feared his heart might race off, from the joy and relief of the statement. "Thank you so much!" They completed each other. Subaru smiled so serenely, squeezing his lover's hand with reassurance.

"I'm happy to hear you say that," Subaru responds honestly. "I feel Kamui has helped me far more times than I can count on."

"No," Kamui shakes his head firmly. He caresses his love's arm. "You're the one who's done so much for me I can't even begin to explain..."

"Kamui you're so-" Subaru begins, stopped by the sound of a throat clearing.

"So it seems you both help each other quite a bit, then," She interrupts helping the lovers with their little moment. "Subaru will be helping you with training your powers, correct?" She continues to inquire, her tone becoming a bit more stern.

"That's right…" Kamui responds, a bit worried, he feels a slight chill. He's still a bit lost on how bright the words earlier made him. Though there was no denying the mood was starting to shift a bit.

"And I imagine you will be accompanying him with his jobs," She responded, as perceptive as ever. Her gaze shifted to one much more serious, conveying a lot of worries.

Subaru was quick to respond to this. "Yes, I'll be at his side the entire time. This will only be for lower-tier jobs as well. As Kamui learns more about controlling his powers."

"Make sure you stay true to that. Even with significant power, there can be danger from the unexpected. Even 'simple' missions can become hazardous if you're not careful." Her warning brings a shiver through Kamui's system. As though he hadn't lived through the past year showing him how much destruction and pain power could bring.

"I understand that…" Kamui speaks a little hesitantly. He leans his head to his beloved's shoulder.

"You are the Kamui, and with that comes incredible power. So I'll trust your judgment, Subaru on this. That he's ready and that you'll stay at his side." There was a shift in mood as the words came out from her. The former head of the Sumeragi clan clearly took the position deadly seriously. While she couldn't stop Subaru, him being the leader now, she would at least warn him.

"I will," Subaru promises. His gaze doesn't leave his sweet, worried beloved. "Of course, I will." Kamui's eyes are shivery, but there's a sense of resolve pulling through.

"We'll protect each other," Kamui returns that same affection, again looking solely at his beloved.

The words seem to please the older woman. She nods at this with contentment.

"Good," Lady Sumeragi spoke as though finalizing something. "You possess a very unique power, Kamui. Especially for one so young. From that, I could tell instantly you were special. Just be sure to focus on keeping that power within your control."

"I understand that," Kamui acknowledges, though feeling nerves kick in. He purses his lips tightly.

"We can do some practice before heading out on the job," Subaru assures, partially worried his beloved might try something reckless. His intensive year of training with his grandmother hadn't been for nothing. He couldn't imagine trying to do what he does now without guidance.

Still, he couldn't become lost in his doubts. Kamui had grown and was incredibly capable. He needed to show his support and belief in that. "It will be alright, I trust Kamui."

There's a slight pause. There was still worry, hesitation upon the former clan leader's face. She hums as though thinking this over. More than anything she couldn't stand to see anyone get hurt and suffer. Even if it meant being overbearing, she knew well her grandson's heart couldn't take a loss again. A brief silence takes over the tension-filled room. At least until-

Meooow.

"A cat?" Kamui was the first to speak up, entirely curious of the situation.

It provided a lighter break. One that was much needed. "It's still coming by here?" Subaru pondered.

"She seems to have sensed you were coming back," Lady Sumeragi too breaks from her thoughts. Her lips softened, smiling with some amusement.

The little black-and-white feline seemed entirely focused on one thing. It skunked around the room. The new occupant drew some curiosity, but for now, she wanted to go find her person. Her person was sitting considerably close to this new guest.

So the attached kitty brushed herself against Subaru's legs, claiming her unofficial owner. Shortly after, she leaped up to sit in Onmyouji's lap.

"Aw," Kamui couldn't help himself from murmuring. Violet-blue orbs shine with a depth of fondness. Especially, when seeing the small animal nudging its head against his hand for pets. "She's attached to you."

"It seems that way," Subaru agrees and shrugs slightly. As to why he couldn't quite tell. But it seems the little furball was not content with letting her 'person' be close to someone she hadn't known. The cat looks up curiously at the youngest in the room.

"Hello there, " Kamui gently greeted the little cat. He extended his hand for it to be sniffed and inspected him. With a small pause, she leaned her head up for Kamui to pet her. She deemed the young man an acceptable "human" to coddle her with affection. She certainly received that.

Subaru watched fondly at Kamui's interactions. Though hesitant at first the small cat soon began purring, enjoying having now two people to give her an unlimited amount of pets.

"She's taken a liking to both of you," Subaru's grandmother lightly laughed. There was a sense the young couple might not be going back home alone. At least from the bundle of fur, cuddling on Subaru's lap.

"Now, we have covered that. I'd like to know more about how things are in Tokyo. I was quite surprised, hearing Subaru had finally committed to staying in one place."

Something which he hadn't done for far too long. Wherever there were leads on the Sakurazukamori that was where he would be. His heart and soul were consumed with his wish.

"I'm really lucky, being able to stay with Subaru," Kamui answers, though can't seem to keep away from his love staring off. "It's nice it's close to my school too…"

"I truly have changed because of Kamui," Subaru voices his own conclusion. His hand extends, turning lovingly to his partner and gently brushing across soft cheeks. He whispered the latter, thoughts slipping out. "It came naturally to want to have a home together..."

The conversation took a lighter turn from there. Day to day banalities, events on and off-campus, and their usual date spots outings. was a needed break from the earlier tension.

Kamui found himself at ease, leaving the topic of work behind, and focusing on the here and now.

What mattered most were those words of praise. Kamui seemed to have gained approval. And maybe a new addition to their home.

Power

While the night commenced, there was a small problem. A very cute, fluffy problem of sorts. The young cat they saw during their visit hadn't left the Subaru nor Kamui alone. She followed them around the outside garden, brushing up against her "chosen persons" legs.

It hadn't been until she noticed a little bird flying around, that she gave the couple some distance. Whilst those were out of reach, for now, there wasn't any giving up. The cute cat became occupied chasing birds or attempting to pounce upon butterflies around the garden.

This distraction gave Subaru and Kamui enough time to sneak out towards one of the training temples. There was nice, playful energy that came from it.

They would see the little feline later on. Now, was a time for something a bit more delicate. So they were led within a spacious yet empty room. Save for a shelf, in the corner and a low table within the center of the room.

Kamui looked around patiently, not seeing exactly what they'd accomplish here. Subaru walked towards the tall shelf, taking out an old-fashioned glass bottle with dark-colored ink, and a few precise wooden brushes.

His boyfriend waves for him, towards the tablet. They sit before the wide table, before bringing out a few blank 'ofuda' talismans. More so the paper portion, with them, still needing power-infused to work properly.

"This is what we're working on?" Kamui asks curiously, while he's handed one of the empty brushes.

"It may not seem like much but it's important, but we need to start from the beginning," Subaru begins his explanation. "Of course, you're strong and I know that." He smiles sympathetically seeing Kamui's smile falling a bit, uncertain, and maybe a bit unsure. The jar of ink was carefully opened, the lid resting upon the side of the table. "But it's important. Now let's just start with some basics."

"Okay…" Kamui responds, feeling uncertain. He sees his boyfriend pull out a few of the paper talismans. The paper is stacked neatly within a pile.

"You can pick up on others' energy?" Subaru grasps for a paper on top of the pile.

"Of course," Kamui answers with confidence. Well, his lover knew that but seemed extra cautious with every question.

"I was quite sure but it's important, you'll sense energy not only of the living but to sense the energy of spirits, and the sense of that energy leaving when they are able to pass on."

"Alright," Kamui had agreed. His eyes focused on the method in which his lover quickly wrote out a series of symbols upon the once ordinary-looking paper.

"I'll be with you, but in the rare case you would need to seal a spirit, we'll start with writing these out."

"I think I can handle that," Kamui says, picking up on his love's nerves. He brushes his hand up and down his tense boyfriend's arm.

"Good, we'll start with writing out one simple…" Subaru began, before emitting a certain amount of ki into the talisman. "You'll want to use a certain amount of your own power for this to work best."

"I'm sure I can do that," Kamui insists, and there was a certain sense of confidence coming through. Perhaps, a lot of it was made to make up for his love's anxiousness.

"We will start with a very basic protection spell, one often used at festivals or homes to give occupants there a sense of ease…" Subaru explained, eyes a bit shivery as he watched his love's slender hands holding onto the brush, preparing to add on the ink.

"You have to be careful of how you write out the characters...or you might end up with an entirely different spell and.."Subaru places his hands over Kamui's hand quickly. "You won't have to rely on these too much. I'll be with you and I don't want you to feel you have to-"

"Subaru!" Kamui interrupted with a slight whine. His expression lightened with deep compassion, seeing how worried his beloved looked. Gradually, he lifted his hand, finally dipping the brush within the ink. "You're helping me. So I'm certain, I really can handle this!"

"Alright…" Subaru slowly agreed, with a soft breath.

Though the words were meant to have reassurance. Something told Kamui, with how protective his boyfriend could be, they might be overly cautious. Likely they wouldn't get past the very beginner spells. Still, this was a step forward, being let in a little more into each other's world.

… End…

---

Hope you enjoyed this chapter. There are so many mysteries regarding CLAMP's works and the Magami bloodline and curse is one of them. Kamui is entirely special and seems to be the final sacrifice /his kekkai made to restore the earth. Fate has changed from its predicted state, and Kamui's been given a chance at being happy. There's pain honoring his lost loved ones but also moving forward with the person he loves the most now. For this and the next chapter, we'll look into Kamui thinking more on his future after school and deciding on what he might enjoy doing in the future, a path not dictated by fate. Of course, there will be fluff and romance to come. I'll see you in the next few weeks for another update!