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.

26. Holly

Ambrosia Chapter 26: "Holly"

Flower symbolism for Holly can certainly vary, definitions more fitting for this chapter/couple goes: Domestic Happiness, difficult victories attained, protection, enchantment, protection, and dreams.

The Holiday season has come and gone but in this story's universe, I get to indulge again with a cute holiday BL. Hope you all had a good holiday season and New Year!

Some more smutty/spicy ️ and also Fluffy romance. I want to explore a little more on the Mysteries of Kamui's family and the Sakurazukamori though I give myself headaches trying to get my brain to imagine what the amazing women of CLAMP have had in mind when creating these excellent and complex, characters. So I end up sticking to bits of angst, lots of hurt/comfort, and fluff.

This story has been my longest one yet. I have some things I will write through and explore with SubKam. I am bad at knowing exactly when I will reach an end, to the story-I do have more ideas. I plan on this story being complete sometime in the next few months? Don't quote me on that when finished I will add an Epilogue

Thank you all for continuing to join me in this journey/story! Holidays made things busy so this took a bit longer and I will have a part two with more Christmas/Holiday SubKam and more reflections with it nearing a year since the aftermath that was 1999/the promised year. So please stay tuned. Love you all bunches!

---

Morning After

Finally….

Finally, It happened.

Exactly what happened between them was evident in the crumpled sheets between them and the array of clothes littered all over the floor.

More so…

Subaru swallowed, hard. Still, spooning his petite lover he could feel it. Dripping between two perfectly soft thighs was a warm, white trail of Subaru's come. The proof of their lovemaking, where he and Kamui took that final step towards physical intimacy.

The older male looks towards where his hands had been resting. Focusing from the hips downward, it was even clearer. Lust-fueled golden and green eyes begin to heat up, seeing the tight entrance of his lover, and how full he looked.

And gods… The sight of his own essence coming out from Kamui's most sensitive regions was…way too erotic!

'Calm down… it's too early to get worked up again.'Subaru tells himself but feels himself failing.

He had the honor, knowing Kamui's heart, mind and body were entirely his and his alone.

No one else's…

The fact they were together...And so intimate in every way… is pure bliss. The sight of long, full lashes batting to awaken was breathtaking.

Subaru had surrendered himself to his precious Kamui long ago. So it was no surprise to him, with how his heart raced, and his face fell into a sappy lovesick smile.

Gently, his fingers brush out and card through messy locks of blue-raven hair. The beautiful male's face glows, highlighting his already naturally bright and creamy perplexion.

His index finger traces down the delicate jawline and back up again to brush over the beautiful face. Once reaching the lips, it paused. With a feather-light touch, Subaru traces all around the plush lips.

"It's incredible…" Subaru whispers to himself, fingers kissing the seam of the plush lips. "No matter what you're doing…" He pauses again, replacing his finger to press a delicate kiss on lips he's come to know so well. "You shine."

Subaru retreats from his kiss, not wanting his lover to miss even a minute of his sleep.

"My Angel," Subaru coos, so sweetly and whisper-soft. The rise and fall of Kamui's chest calm the older lover's breathing and heartbeat.

Subaru rests his hand over Kamui's chest. He feels the beating sign of life. This was real. This was true.

"How did I get so lucky?" Subaru whispers the question, shaking his head softly. "I can't imagine there's anything I've done or could do to earn what's been given to me..." More so. What Kamui has given me.

'All I can offer is everything I am.' Subaru's humbling thoughts (which his lover would refute as being more than enough) float through his mind like clouds of the sky. Peaceful, soft, and slowly coming to a change, to take another moment to appreciate every little detail that made up Shirou Kamui.

Subaru continues to caress a soft milky cheek that hours earlier had been burning like crazy. The older male felt his cheek, feeling that lingering heat beneath. Of course, he couldn't help but think of… everything they had done last night.

Any time would end up feeling right for finally trying intercourse because it was them.

However, last night the timing felt entirely perfect.

'Perhaps I should have prepared the bedroom better.. for our anniversary.' Subaru thinks it's a little whimsical. His mind floods with images of elegant rose petals sprinkled all over the light comforter of their bed.

'Though, I had no way of knowing… last night would be the time…'

Kamui didn't operate in such precise, planned-out ways. Not like his boyfriend did.

This was bound to happen, much sooner than later. Intimacy was always present in their relationship. They had touched, and came for one another, every moment as beautiful as the last.

They had been intimate and made love through different methods. But the more penetrative part of the act had long been delayed by Subaru's apprehension.

He wanted to get everything perfect. He couldn't forgive himself for hurting Kamui and leaving his sleek lover unprepared.

Judging by the sounds escaping Kamui's lips, both exposed to the air and covered by Subaru's lips… he could assume he had done something right.

'I don't believe I hurt you… right?' Intrusive thoughts take over Subaru's mind. But he looks at the peaceful sleepy face and relaxes.

Soft chuckles escape Subaru's lips. He watches Kamui's button nose crinkle and twitches.

"Mmm…I-..." Kamui mumbles several incomprehensible words, before the end of his sleep cycle. The serene and blissful display of words makes it clear his lover was not plagued with a nightmare. Rather… a rather heated dream.

"Subaru~" Kamui murmurs, lips parting, before closing up again. "Hmm~," sleepy little giggles escaped, and Subaru was the only one allowed to hear.

Kamui had a softened (for Subaru especially) but still strong-willed personality. The latter came out mostly around that outside of his lover.

But, right here… was their sanctuary. They could be as soft, vulnerable, and lovesick as they liked.

This Kamui and This Subaru would purely exist here, alone together, in their bed, their home with post-coital feelings lingering.

Daybreak came later and later at the turn of the seasons. There was a beauty in the way this allowed for them more time to sleep in and cuddle up close, before starting their routine. Although there were rarely mornings where they didn't spend some time snuggling up and kissing before even thinking of leaving the bed.

Though now, a small strip of sunlight began to light its way through the blinds. Warm sunny rays begin to light the room. Kamui was stirring slightly but sighed with deep content. He cuddles closer unconsciously feeling his lover's warm body blocking out the brightness.

Kamui turned in his sleep, closer and closer to the very addictive warmth. The lovers were chest to chest. Once close enough, lean yet strong arms wrapped the younger lover up, into a deeper embrace than before. Soft breaths escaped the young male, his legs intertwining and brushing under the sheets.

"Mnn…" Out came the first signs of awakening. Though the process was slow, even while asleep being tangled up in so much love and warmth, it was hard to resist. Kamui had never felt more secure.

Stirring lightly, full black lashes began to part, exposing beautiful violet-blue eyes. Kamui blinked sleepily, while his lips stretched out to let a soft yawn escape. Glancing up, he was immediately met with such an endearing, warm, and love-fueled gaze. Cheeks dusted a light pink, and the younger man found his lips curling and eyes lighting up brilliantly in turn.

Mind full of his lover, he found himself staring off into an abyss of gold and emerald. Soft laughter warms over Kamui's features, making him return to the present. There was a feeling of something lukewarm trailing down his legs.

Kamui's face turned to fire, heart thundering as he was coming to. Morning afters were...a bit embarrassing. Yet, despite his face lit aflame, the young lover hadn't turned away.

Glittering violet-blue eyes kept locked to emerald-green watery orbs. His smile softened, a bit shyer, but was far from wishing to turn away. The mood was far too nice.

"Good morning," Kamui breathes out the words, voice natural and at peace.

Subaru returns the tender smile, stealing a quick kiss from all too tempting lips. The adorable pout as he pulled away from the kiss was worth it.

Of course, Subaru could deny his lover nothing...certainly not with this…

"Good morning, my beautiful Kamui~," He ensured to speak in a deeper and more sensual tone before pulling his love in for a deeper kiss. Their eyes fluttered to a soft close.

Their lips melded and moved slowly and tenderly. Sweet, gentle kisses remained between the pair.

Kamui's hands curled into the hair on the back of his lover's head, and over a shoulder blade. Subaru tightened his hold over Kamui, one hand moving to brush along his lower back.

"Oh," Kamui says with a brief shiver. He finds himself melting into the very exposed skinship. That's right, last night we..."This feels nice," He murmurs happily.

"It does," Subaru agrees, continuing to massage along his lover's lower back and hips. Their lips returned to addictive little movements, gliding and reuniting again and again.

Kamui's hand slips down past his lover's neck and rests upon his shoulder blade.

"I adore you," Subaru breathes out all too easily. Words never seemed to fall out as naturally as they did with Kamui. His heart was raw and exposed to the younger lover.

"I ah… feel the same… for you," Kamui returns a little meekly, ensuring to seal their lips closed. After all, actions were louder and easier for both men to convey. Though, loving words laced with sincerity certainly had their place.

"Ah….Kamui?" Subaru's tone turns tentative.

"Hm?" Kamui returns wrapped up in tangling their legs together even more.

'How are you feeling?" Subaru asks tenderly, rubbing patterns up and down his tired lover's back.

'Of course, you always think of me before anything else.'

"I feel…" Kamui murmurs, pausing to kiss his lover's nose. "Very well." Another kiss placed right at the corner of his lover's mouth, oh so teasingly. He couldn't help the cheeky tone, seeing his rather calm lover-flushing with this much emotion and desire. "Especially now."

"I'm glad," Subaru breathes out in deep relief. He shakes his head at his worries, and the fact he can't help but follow up. "I just want to be sure…"

"You can be sure~," Kamui purrs slowly, his fingers feeling around his lover's chest. Though there's a sense of uncertainty glooming in dual-toned eyes. Kamui begins pursing his lips, a bit worried. "Subaru?"

"Last night… I-ah…"Subaru swallowed audibly, far too many emotions came swooping in. Images of their passionate anniversary night came through. But overall that was his worried mind was the state of his young lover.

'This was a first for both of us… ' "I didn't hurt you, right?"

Kamui immediately reddens at the insinuation. Though his concern took over his features soon after, as he processed the worry behind the question. Plush pink lips and eyes trembled and reflected worry.

'Even if you were a bit rougher… in the future I wouldn't-' He shakes his thoughts around, not ready to be aroused again just yet…

"No, no, no," Kamui hurriedly consciously assures he won't avert his eyes, wanting his lover to feel at ease. The younger lover gazes into his lover's eyes and studies him.

Kamui experimentally sits up just a bit and slowly, as though to prove his upcoming statement. His lips pursed slightly at the bit of soreness that came naturally for a first-time experience. But it wasn't painful or at least.. not pain he would think twice about.

Kamui cupped his lover's cheek with his right hand. His left grasped for his lover, before guiding them both to lie back once more. The raven-haired boy shook his bed-tossed head.

"You didn't hurt me," Kamui ensures, despite his embarrassment at the subject, he doesn't turn away. His violet-blue orbs break through to the core of emotions in a sea of deep emerald and gold.

Considering every kind of pain Kamui was faced within his life, the soreness didn't phase him. Though it did make his face burn as he felt a rather erotic liquid dripping further down his legs.

"You… ah…" Kamui moans a bit, feeling his body so full of this sensation. Images of his lover's hands, lip, and tongue all over, make him a little dizzy. He hides part of his face into the pillow. "Were… very thorough with me."

The very description gave relief to Subaru's weary mind… but brought out a new 'problem'. A flustered Kamui… talking like this… This is way too effective on me.

"Thorough?" Subaru repeats, light dances in his eyes with the tease.

Kamui's lips fall at the tone. His love-bitten lips are stuck somewhere between pouting and sulking.

'Adorable… ' Subaru's mind fills in for him, and he nearly says it aloud.

"Mmm," Kamui groans, tilting his head so it's lying in the center of his pillow. This time he does look away at all. He holds his love's gaze with his doe-like violet eyes. "You were gentle… always making sure I felt alright."

"I didn't feel pain," Kamui turns his head to the side and moves even closer

He's able to rest his head upon the end of his lover's pillow, the locks of their hair fall into each other. Somehow, even that site alone felt precious.

'I'd like to think…' Kamui glances to see the shine of Subaru's deep green and black hair mixed with his shade of raven-blue. 'Every part of us… fits together.' As though they were made to be right here.

"All I felt was you…" Kamui murmurs so very quietly, his lover almost feels the words more than hear them.

"I…" Subaru laughs a little nervously, before swallowing. "I am relieved then," He isn't sure whether he wished to embrace or ravish his lover. His hardness was only becoming more and more prominent. Hearing you say those things… It might be a weakness for me...'

"Could you repeat… what you just said?" As soon as the words slip out, Subaru is flooded with regret. His cheeks dust pink, and he instantly holds a hand to his mouth. His other hand waved in front of Kamui's line of vision in defense.

"What I just…" Kamui's mind placed together what he had recently professed. Though his heart is racing, and cheeks mimic fire he decides to follow through.

"Okay," He pauses, taking a soft breath. The young man leans up and hovers over his lover. "But… Only because it's you…"

"Kamui…" Subaru's breath hitches and feels lips right over his ear. The younger man's nervousness laughs, and breaths escape at first.

"I said…" Kamui wills himself to say something even more flustering. Something he thinks might make his lover happy.

"All I felt was you… inside me…" Kamui's whisper remains sensual despite stumbling with his words. Violet-blue orbs close in a brief wince. He felt his lower body very reactive.

"Kamui…" Subaru shivers fully at this, his ear as cherry-red as his blush. He holds a hand to that same ear, feeling of steam coming out. His stomach begins pooling with heat.

But he wasn't the only one reeling from the purposely seductive talk. Kamui started his legs together.

'I was supposed to make you feel these things...Not getting aroused myself.' Kamui nestles and doesn't leave the safety of his lover's neck, knowing his lover can feel the fire.

"Are you-?" Kamui begins, then shakes his head at the question Are you turned on? The obvious answer is attempting to poke and press between his legs. He feels his own length at his lover's abdomen.

"I…am," Subaru regrettably admits. He is quick to follow up with an insistence. "But I don't want to do anything if you're not feeling up to it, and need some time to rest."

"I want the same," Kamui breathes slowly, lifting his head up from his hiding place. He sits up slightly, seeing his lover follow. A messy head of raven-blue falls on the taller male's shoulder. The arm around his shoulders is encouraging. "I… just want to be like this for a few more minutes."

Kamui's worries of being selfish to delay their time together is blown away with a smile of sheer understanding. The wait seems to bring an even more lustful gleam in those gold and emerald orbs.

"Of course," Subaru ensures just how right he feels with staying here. He gingerly lifts Kamui carefully placing him in his lap to avoid further reactions.

Violet-blue orbs gloss and brighten. He rests his head upon his lover. Their lips meet in another series of soft and sweet 'good morning' kisses. Finally, they follow up in a warm, welcoming hug. Kamui snuggles his head beside his lover's neck.

"My sweet Kamui," Subaru showers his lover with sweet words. He rests his head upon the younger man's head.

"I like this…" Kamui voices, nuzzling the tip of his nose into a small crook. His lips lightly trail around the sensitive neck.

"Do you now?" Subaru gently banters. He ensures to add on. "I love this."

Kamui pauses his kisses for a second. He ensures to hold his lover's gaze. His face falls into a (mostly) mock-sulking expression. "It's not a competition."

"But with this…" Subaru brushes raven hair behind a soft ear. "I feel I've already won," Subaru tenderly murmurs mostly to himself.

"Won?" Kamui blinks, curious though he has some ideas. 'I might just love hearing your voice a little too much…'

"Being with you," Subaru professes voice going a little softer. His warm breath falls over the raven's head below his chin. "There's nothing else that comes close to this feeling…"

"Subaru…" Kamui coos, feeling a mix of emotions as his lover's voice fades. This comes out even more as he looks into the blend of amorous and anxious emotions.

"It's almost scary…" Subaru admits, so very quiet, with a sense of melancholy. "How much I need you here with me."

"I'm not going anywhere," Kamui's lips curl down. He grasps for his boyfriend's hand gently tugging it down to rest on his chest. "I'm right here with you."

"I believe you, I feel…" Subaru pauses wondering if he's ever described this before. This feeling was unique, one he hadn't felt in ages. "I feel loved by you."

"Good," Kamui's eyes glimmer, as he shakes his head with a sense of fondness. "because you are loved." Kamui kisses his cheek. "Very much so," He expresses so gently, as though this moment was fragile, about to break if he missed these words.

"I love you Subaru. I will always be with you. No matter what we come up against, we will make it through together." Kamui doesn't pass the chance to ensure his beloved.

"When you say those words…" Subaru closes his eyes, fondly humming, "I can only believe you."

"As you should," Kamui feels a weight lifted from his chest. With a cheeky little smirk forming, he can't help but add. "And I'll make sure nothing happens to either of us… I am quite powerful after all."

Kamui can't keep a straight face as he releases those words. His lips curl into a Cheshire smile, as his eyes dance with mischief.

Bragging over his power was not unusual in the past, it often led to fights and arrogance knowing he was a clear winner. Not once since meeting Subaru, had he held an air of superiority. His lover's strengths went far beyond the battlefield.

Subaru knows this fact quite well. He looks into those violet-blue eyes, chest warming to see this warm inviting emotion.

"I'm aware. You are incredible, Kamui," Subaru openly and shamelessly gushes over his lover. His eyes stirred with adoration and amorous intentions.

Kamui returns the stare, though he flushes, holding his lover's eyes to him for a moment… before neither can help but break out into a small fit of laughter.

There's a sense of calm between them. So light and freeing.

"I'm lucky… I feel your love too," Kamui whispers in a cooing manner. His hips shift to straddle his lover more securely, and... To sit teasingly close to his lover's arousal. "It makes me so happy I… can't even describe it." His fingers start to play together a little nervously, unable to keep this emotion in.

Kamui pecks his lover's cheek again, lingering until the area grows pinker. "I love being yours…"

"Me too…" Subaru returns feeling unable to recall further words at this point. His mind is too full of Kamui.

"And… I trust you completely…with my life, my heart, everything," Kamui proclaims positively. He ensures to link their hands, enamored at how their fingers know to lock in their place. "So of course…" Violet-blue eyes turn down, flustering. "I-I, of course, I trust you in body as well… everything from last night was… honestly perfect," Kamui confesses, words ringing beautifully to his boyfriend's ears.

Subaru's sense of self and confidence went up a few points at the admittance. "For me as well…"

"I want to feel you," Kamui admits, a bit sheepish as he adds on. "Unhurried…"

"Kamui…" Subaru has more than stars. There's an entire galaxy lighting up his eyes, his doubts pushed out and need coming through.

Looking into one another's eyes they returned to joining their lips synching perfectly. Subaru is quick to press a kiss to Kamui's lip, far too chaste for his lover's liking.

This time around Kamui could return the loving touch. Immediately his lips pressed and pushed against his lover's. Not wanting him to pull away again, Kamui's hands reached out to hold his beloved's soft cheeks. He just about melted, feeling familiar hands tangled up in his messy hair.

Subaru took initiative for deepening the kiss, which made a pleasing hum escape from his lover. Plush lips were still sensitive from activities, with little nibble marks all to present on both pairs of lips. There was an intention to make more, as Subaru teased a plush bottom lip with the slightest graze of teeth.

"Su-mmmph-baru~" Kamui voiced his complaint at the teasing. Something was challenging in his eyes, stirring a feeling for Subaru to act.

Suddenly, Subaru let an arm snake over his love's waist and turned Kamui to lay flat on his back.

The younger man completely purred at the feeling of the larger body resting upon him and heating him. It continued from there, the older lover feeling a rare bit of confidence in his actions.

"I love you," Subaru professed, through the haze of desire. These things meant nothing if they both didn't have their heart, mind, and bodies into it. Larger hands grasped for Kamui's, lacing together before he pinned his lover to their bed.

Subaru felt himself practically grinning into their next kiss. His lover was nothing more than encouraging, already wrapping his legs snuggly around him. The younger man's hips were rocking and gliding over his own.

"Mmmnn-Love you…" Kamui managed between deep kisses. He was quite pleased for his lover to take a confident lead, his moans escaping louder and far more often than normal. He parted his lips eagerly, to allow his lover to continue forward.

Kamui enjoyed being receptive in this… but the younger man certainly hadn't stayed docile. He kissed back with a deeper passion and ground their hips together.

"Ka-" This was all Subaru would be able to manage, before feeling a sleeker tongue brushing all along the edges of his own. Kamui remained exploratory, licking teeth, gums, cheeks, and the top of his love's mouth. It was impossible to resist once he found their tongues coming into a full embrace. Their bodies matched in their entanglement.

They both let moans escape into each other's lips. Passionate lips kept melting and pulling for one another. Subaru angled his head slightly, pulling away just a bit only to return with a hard kiss and at an all-new angle.

"Ahhh~" Kamui let out a fully pleased moan. He found his beloved finally pressing in upon his hips. While being up for more than this… he couldn't find a fiber of his being disagreeing with this intimacy.

"My Kamui," Subaru returns the loving notion for him. With pupils blowing up and swallowing the gold and green, he finds himself entirely fixated. His hips were precise, grinding at the angle he knew Kamui adored.

"Oh, God!" He screamed when his lover put his all into deeply grinding against him. Subaru hadn't let their lips part for more than a second while moving like that.

There was no space between them, and no barriers to speak of. Sleeping bare to one another certainly had its advantages. Subaru gradually released one of Kamui's hands in order to grasp for the boy's slender hips. He focused on finding the best angles and pressure as their hardened erections were aching against one another for release.

Kamui's free hand immediately clung to his boyfriend's back. He whimpered, feeling his most sensitive regions being embraced and swallowed up by the larger body on him. Still, through the haze of lust,

Subaru would look deep into Kamui's eyes, checking to make sure he wasn't doing anything to cause his love discomfort. The younger man nodded at the sweet unspoken question. "This feels perfect…" Kamui returns before becoming a mewling mess.

Subaru and Kamui set an unhinged pace. This was far from an unfamiliar territory, especially after last night.

Both lovers were equally putting their all into the movements, rocking and grinding perfectly together. The pressure Kamui felt between his lover and the mattress was intense.

They needed that one little push, Subaru squeezed Kamui's hand one more time before releasing it. His hands both remained upon the boy's side, giving him better control. Kamui had no objection, his hands tangling at the back of his lover's head.

"K-Kamui…" Subaru weakly called to him. His lust-hazed gold and emerald orbs took in the devoted love his lover held amongst the sheen of raw desire. "I want to come with you...together."

"P-please!" Kamui cried out, far too gone to reason to hesitate or quiet his voice. Subaru was equally losing himself to this moment. He grasped both of Kamui's hips securely before diving back in.

Kamui mewled, feeling his hips being ground into that much harder and deeper into the bed. It was hard to follow the movement, being pinned, yet somehow that only made him more aroused, dripping wildly between their bodies.

Hands cling tightly to Subaru's back, nails digging in as they reach a faster and untamed pace between their bodies. Every rock, brush, and grind of their hips kept getting harder, and more intense. There was no relenting to this emotion, as they kept their lips and bodies sealed tightly together.

There was but a minute before the movements and thrusts were becoming too much to resist.

"Subaru!" Kamui cried while his lips were momentarily freed. They had to catch their breath. "I'm-"

"I am too…" Subaru responds to his lover and picks up the pace even more.

"Su-ahh-th-that's-" Kamui attempted to voice, when not being completely overtaken by such pleasure. A deep thrust of their hips together led Kamui to call.

"SUBARU!" His voice raised in pitch and intensity, far more than he could admit to. His body trembled, shaking wildly as he no longer sought the strength. His body burst out completely with ribbons of white coating their joined head tilted back, as he felt unable to do much else but take this pleasure head-on.

"Kamui…!" Subaru was right there with him, coming just seconds later, and coming in hard. He came with seemingly endless bursts of passion. Just when one white ribbon was released, another followed even longer and more intense than the one before.

Kamui felt his control slipping, as he basked in the pleasurable release from himself, and the orgasmic feeling still overtaking. There was already feeling returning to his sex, feeling his lover cum so so much upon him. Subaru managed the strength to continue moving their bodies to a sense of completion, ensuring every last drop of pleasure was released.

Finally, the intensity lessened, both were rocking their lips gentler, coming down from the euphoric high. Subaru flipped their positions, letting his spent lover rest on top of him.

"Haa...Haaa…." Kamui had to catch his breath. He nuzzled into the heated body beneath and purred at the arms around him.

"My Kamui," Subaru coos, pressing his lips to love on the crown of his lover's head.

Kamui couldn't hide the beaming look on his face for the world. He leaned up to meet his boyfriend's gaze and returned with an equal passion. "And you are My Subaru."

Their legs tangled up perfectly, Kamui pressed a sweet kiss to his lover's lips before lying back down. Post-coital-cuddling brought the sense of togetherness all that more special. Kamui's head on his chest showed their hearts were beating as one, coming off from the accelerated pace to one more steady and peaceful.

"This feels nice," Kamui voiced his thoughts.

"P-perhaps we should...shower?"

Subaru laughed softly, kissing his forehead. Though a bit tired, they remained entangled on the bed, catching their breath for… whatever was to happen next.

"Let's begin," Subaru started with a sultry tone indicating more was to come out of this.

"Okay," Kamui beamed, Licking his lips, in turn being very aware of the situation ahead. They were in agreement as he tucked his arms under the lithe body and carried his lover's bridal style to their adjoined bathroom.

---

~Steam~

The intended purpose of what they were doing was to eventually get clean. Surely, everyone knew this well enough. However, as of the past few months, their shower room had quite a different purpose.

Despite reaching a climax not long ago, things quickly became heated, steaming like the hot water surrounding the room. What started as loving little caresses and kisses quickly simmered.

The heat of the very warm shower made for more encouragement, to become that much more lost in the feeling.

Adoring lips on lips, chest to chest, hips against hips, tongues entangled… They were moving in perfect sync.

Kamui stood up on his tiptoes, to better align them better. He earned a very deep, passionate kiss and a squeeze to the back of his thighs for doing so.

"Mmm…" Kamui purrs his approval right into the deepening kiss, parting his lips even more with obvious intention.

Subaru wastes no time to enter between those lips he's explored and lost himself to on countless occasions.

Showering together rarely went without something more… A preferred activity before cleansing together. This blissful morning was no exception.

"Kamui…" Subaru breathes, watching his lover grip at his shoulders with a sense of urgency.

"Do you want to join me?" or the more recent "Perhaps… we should shower?" That was all Kamui needed to say to get Subaru to surrender completely.

The hot steam, all those touches kisses, and moans reverberating upon the tiles it was becoming too much. They needed to act on this before coming undone from kisses and touches alone.

Kamui lifted his right leg just a bit, letting the side of his foot brush up his boyfriend's leg. He felt every curve and edge of his lover's toned calf and thigh muscles.

"Ah… K-Kamui…" Subaru groaned his lover's name. Immediately his fingers dig into those soft creamy hips, holding some semblance of control. Whether to keep them steady or move them closer he couldn't decide

"I...need you…" Kamui professes, cheeks burning a deep crimson, despite or perhaps because they had already done so much.

"I need you too…" Subaru ensures returning to ravish his lover with a deeper kiss. His tongue plundered Kamui's mouth to take in every semblance of his taste. Hands over Kamui's hips soon tightened, lifting the beautiful young man of his tiptoes.

Kamui smiles at this, eyes glazing over with a newfound intensity of lust.

Everything we've done together has been right… I shouldn't be surprised… I want it this badly…

Still, he couldn't look his lover in the eye for long. He had to take a breath, somewhere between wrapping his arms around a strong neck, and legs around a supportive body.

There wasn't an opportunity to look away for long. Once securing Kamui in his hold, Subaru returned to licking at and nipping the younger man's plush bottom lip.

Kamui moans at the pressure, opening himself up again. Both pairs of lips come together in their own series of 'love-making', an act accomplished to the point of mastery.

It was fully connected to them. Subaru could taste his love's smile into their kiss. The same could be said for Kamui, his toes curled, feeling every curve of his lover's lips, as it melded and became swallowed up between his own.

"Haaa…" Kamui begins panting, feeling hands squeezing him that bit tighter. "Su-!" He doesn't finish, eyes glazed over with lust as he finds his back pressed against the warm shower wall.

"Kamui…" Subaru speaks, tenderly, while he traces one hand up and down his lover's side. Fingertips graze over and love upon every sensitive patch of skin. From the young man's hips, stomach, and chest, this same adoring and indulgent touch persues.

"That… place…" Kamui's head falls back for a brief moment. He closes his love-hazed eyes for a moment to catch his breath.

Tender lips come to claim and love all over the younger man's now exposed neck.

"It's… where you're sensitive?" Subaru answers, knowingly, he lets his hand rest over the sensitized supple chest muscles. "I'll be gentle here," Subaru says the words sweetly yet with such a sensual promise.

"Oh okay…" Kamui isn't sure whether he feels more of his heart swooning or his lower regions aching with need. Neither emotion seemed to back out.

"You… ha… can touch me anywhere… Subaru, you know that." Kamui asserts with unwavering trust and devotion lighting his eyes. He can't control the labored breaths and moans for the constant attention.

"I love this… and just every inch of you…" Subaru murmurs into the soft, pale neck. He nips a few tiny love marks to the collection. Feeling a little peck and lick upon his already marked-up neck, makes him shiver. "Feels so good to touch…"

The enamored man continues to dote and lose himself, sucking upon and indulging at a part of his lover's neck, that always brought out the best reactions.

"Hearing your voice like this… makes me want to go further…" Hands began to trail back down towards Kamui's hips and over the sensitive skin of his stomach. One hand dares to go further, the long index finger teasing below, at Kamui's entrance. "And completely take you."

All over again.

"Hnnnnmmmm… S-Subaru…" Kamui involuntarily squeaks and mewls. This was pleasantly unexpected to hear his lover voice these thoughts openly. He hadn't been able to prepare for how this kind of talk would make his entire body feel like fire.

"As long as this is… what you want as well…of course…" Subaru goes breathless against the sensitive neck, making apology kisses all along the bitten skin. He rests his head beside his lover's neck to calm himself from completely losing control.

Kamui's heart stirred at the genuine concern that this was what they both wanted. 'Always so kind…'

"I love this Haaa… aaaa….because...aaa… I-it's with you," Kamui admits through strained breaths and moans. 'And right now… you're… way too hot.'

"So please." His violet eyes turn sheepish and avert to the ceiling. It isn't long before he finds himself sucked into a whirlpool of gorgeous gold and emerald orbs. Violet-blue orbs glisten brilliantly, lights of desire cloud over any remaining sense of calmness.

"I love your touch," Kamui professes with a sultry little purr. He becomes lighthearted, the heat of the room and between them intoxicating. There was pure sincerity as he spoke those words, and not a millimeter of his body was in disagreement with this statement.

"My sweet Kamui," Subaru murmurs against a soft neck. Though hearing those words only continues to light the untamed spark between them. "You're far too beautiful for me to begin explaining…" He nuzzles the sides of Kamui's neck kissing over old and new love bites he had made. "I… really… really…" He closes his eyes for a moment, attempting to hold back this last bit of resolve. "I want you… right now…"

"Subaru…" Kamui coos, finding his hips moving with a life of their own. Their most private regions line up perfectly and grind together to the point where neither male can restrain a loud prominent moan.

"If you want the same… of cour-" Subaru's lips were taken captive. Kamui pressed their mouths together, hard before proceeding to suck his lover's lower lip between his own.

The sudden and sturdy grip of his hands on his hips makes Kamui cry out. His lover ground down desperately against his straining erection.

"Ahnnn… I… need it… please…" Kamui manages through the battle of lips, teeth and tongue ensued. Feeling his body pressed deeper against the wall, brought out an unbridled thrill.

Subaru's mind became foggy hearing those sensual words that went straight to his heart and his cock. Love and raw desire took over his senses for a dangerous combination.

"Yes...my Kamui…" Subaru replies with a breathless smile. His hands hold tightly to Kamui, while the other one scrambles to reach for a certain something that would help make this process go on smoothly.

"I need… to prepare you first…" Subaru ensures his lover with a gentle caress and kisses to reddened lips.

"Hnnnn…" Kamui whines, entirely displeased at the feeling of his feet touching the floor of the shower. That displeased feeling soon came over with such addicting heat, as he felt an arm protectively holding him up and against a warm body.

"Hurry…" Kamui voices feeling his lover much too far away. The blurry, desire-glazed vision made it difficult for Kamui to catch what his lover was doing. Hastily gold and emerald eyes scanned for a familiar bottle of lubricant.

'Of course, even know… you're thinking of me… that I'll be alright…'

Kamui's smile was about ready to melt off of his face. "There's one I put in here earlier… in the… top drawer…" He points towards a small drawer close by their shower space.

At a record pace, Subaru reaches one arm out of the steaming shower. A drawer flies open, Subaru reaches just enough to grasp for a small bottle of lubricant. Quickly he returns to the shower, uncapping the lid on the fragrant fruity lubricant inside.

Searing gold and emerald eyes lock upon their counterparts. Kamui shivers, Licking his lips and parting them for his lover to capture him right then and there.

All too happily, Kamui wraps his arms around his lover's shoulders. The fingertips digging into his thighs and hands desperately holding his hips, makes him moan.

"Subaru~" There was only so much of this he could stand. 'I'm so ready… please… don't tease me here.'

Kamui finds his hips lifted up high enough for them to return to their connection. His legs eagerly wrap around his lover's waist again keeping him in place.

"Kamui…" Subaru speaks his name with a groan reflecting almost a growl. His larger body presses Kamui tightly against the wall once more.

They return to their earlier lip lock. Everything only feels that much hotter with the anticipation of what was to come oh so very soon. Their mouths return to capturing and delving into one another.

"Subaru~" Kamui calls for his lover in a tone that only magnifies the heat in his lover's lower regions.

There was no way to resist… to wait any longer… not while they both were burning up, so in sync from this physically 'simple' yet intimately profound connection.

"I'll start with one…" Subaru explains, not entirely aware of how just saying that makes his lover's entrance twitch wildly. Long skillful hands pour out and douse several fingers with the warm, fragrant lubricant.

"I'm ready…" Kamui responds quietly, burying his face into his lover's chest a bit. He debates whether he would be able to handle it, fully watching his lover's fingers moving inside him.

' I… don't want to come too soon…' Kamui thinks this and decides to steal a few peeks at the way his lover's beautiful and long finger enters inside of him. Starting just with the tip, then up to the buckle, and finally entering fully inside. A pleasurable prelude for something feeling even better.

"Oh my God…" Kamui can't handle watching more. Instead, he lets his head fall back resting against the tile… "It already feels… so deep…"

"I…" Subaru can't find a response to that one and how hard that kind of talk affected him. "I'll be gentle… with this and the-the second." He swallows hard, finding his finger taken in so needily by Kamui's body. The action of pulling it slightly out is almost painful.

Kamui's body clenched airtight around his first finger. While lathering enough of the lubricant, a second finger slides in slowly and carefully.

"Let me know if it… doesn't feel good to you." Subaru ensures, trying to keep himself in check enough to properly prepare his lover. But the way his body has become so welcoming, trusting to let him in and stubborn to allow a way out… made the room suddenly boil.

"I-ok…" Kamui promises, eyes closed, absorbing the pleasure of feeling this part of his lover moving in and out deep inside. "You can… continue with this…"

"So long as you're sure," Subaru always leaves that offer open to his most beloved. He nods diligently and swallows extra hard. His third lubricated and well-prepared finger enters inside the entrance surrounded by soft warmth.

Motions that begin with soft pumps, in and out turn to something more. As his three long fingers begin stretching out inside the tight heat. Scissoring the tight muscle to open and entice further pleasure.

Knowing Kamui's weakness, he indulges in curling all three of his long fingers in and out, brushing against those all too sensitive walls inside.

"Ahhhnn! SUBARU! PLEASE!" Kamui pleas with absolute urgency, voice reaching new levels of volume. "I need to feel you!" I don't want to come before that…

"R-right," Subaru confirms gently, pulling out the three fingers from inside. Kamui mewls longing and aching for the feeling of something warm inside.

"I'm going… inside you now…" Subaru expresses being sure he can get confirmation from those beautiful violet eyes. Kamui kisses him soft and lingering… and moves his hips… it was time.

"Please…." Kamui breathes soft and warm into his lover's ear. Subaru takes every ounce of self-control to not simply ram himself completely into his lover here.

For good measure, Subaru swiftly yet efficiently ensured to lather his now engorged cock with several layers of the warming lubricant. One arm presses straight out, hand laying flat on the wall, ensuring he would keep his balance while entering inside his lover.

Subaru's free and lubricated hand grasps a hold at the base of his erection. He presses the tip against the damp lubricated entrance inside Kamui. With no resistance, only encouraging kisses along his face, and hips staying down and close to the sense of penetration, he enters.

The hardened tip is devoured by an indiscernible sense of heat and soft walls closing in over them. Looking towards Kamui for further assurance, and meeting his eyes… he continues to press in that bit more… slowly inching in… deeper and deeper with soft breaks between.

Until finally Subaru has completely emerged within his lover's entrance. They are bound together as one once more. The older male allows his lover a moment to catch his breath and get used to stretching inside of him.

Kamui smiles beautifully, little breaths and lovesick giggles escape. "Please…" His long eyelashes flutter before finishing. "I need to feel you completely." In a flushed and meeker voice Kamui pleas, "Take me…."

There was no chance a request like that could be denied. Subaru catches his breath at the words, finding himself getting bigger and harder inside his lover from hearing such sensual words.

Subaru grasps Kamui's hips snuggly, ensuring his hold was secure before moving slowly but firmly inside.

"Ahhh… Subaru…" Kamui mewls, back-arching, legs tightening around his lover in a tight grip. "More…" He's too far gone, pupils blown out, lips curling and his hips moving lower, so Subaru only slides that bit deeper inside.

And that's more than enough for Subaru to start more thoroughly. He begins a steady and gentle pace to ease them into things together. The younger man moves his hips in sync for each and every thrust.

It's soon they find this pace and intensity is not quite enough for them.

… It is really… like heaven… Subaru thinks blissfully picking up the gentle pace to add that bit more pressure. There was nothing too hard or rushed for completion. No, the need to indulge and let this moment linger took over both of their senses.

Kamui's lips cutely pursed out as he looked expectantly at his lover to comply. Subaru stole those lips within his own, licking and ravishing such sensitive skin of the beautiful mouth. He swallows every little cry and mewls Kamui lets out.

Kamui in turn is made to completely swallow all of the moans, groans, and cries his lover provides. Every bit of him is so full… from his lips, his heart, his body…

'perfectly full of you' The younger lover dreamily thinks, completely embraced and loved by his Subaru. 'I feel you everywhere…' The thought alone was almost enough to make him come.

Thankfully, his lover sensed this and held the same value. Making this last and linger for longer. A beautiful rhythm played as their bodies connected again and again.

Little gasps escape Kamui's mouth at the feeling of his lover pulling out just the slightest. Entirely pleased moans and cries escape feeling his body filled to the brim with more passion and intention put into the thrust.

Subaru's hands found themselves at the back of Kamui's neck, pulling him in again and again for addicting liplocks. While his other hand secured his hold under his lover's thigh and bottom, feeling exactly where they had connected.

"Subaru …" Kamui lets his voice fully escape a rare break between lavishing kisses. "I… I think… I'm almost... There."

Subaru smiles, stealing those lips for a passionate devouring kiss. There's not that urgency to move too hard or too fast… they'd lose themselves to each other, as their bodies rocked together with the slow yet deep thrusts that came with it.

"I want you to…" Subaru coos against tender lips. "Come for me….my Kamui."

Those words again.

'You can't just say that… ' Kamui thinks, feeling his entire body being taken so thoroughly. Every slow and sensual thrust met with an even more sensitive and needy part inside of him, begging to be loved on.

Kamui kisses his lover with a deepening passion, hoping this action will make them close to coming at the same time. His lover was all too effective against him, here… with every deep and purposeful thrust, driving him mad.

"Kamui…" Subaru whispers out of breath, eyes glazed with so much raw need and love. "I… won't last long here…" He admits, his words unintentionally becoming a seduction to his lover.

Kamui's cheeks lit aflame, as he moved his hips to follow each thrust no matter how hard or deep it became. His untouched erection soon became pressed snuggly between their bodies as Subaru flushes himself tight to Kamui's body.

"Oooh," Kamui feels pleasure stimulating all over. His aching need is being massaged between their two bodies and his most sensitive regions become hit again and again. Fingernails dig tightly into his boyfriend's shoulder.

"Ahhh… S-Subaru… I… I'm going to…!" Kamui cries wildly, eyes brimming with lust field tears, as he feels that sweet spot inside of him hit so hard and so very dead on. His own erection is smothered between their bodies feeling entirely too hot and it's too much to hold back anymore…

"Subaru!~! I-" Kamui can't finish, the heat overtaking him becomes too much. He finds himself exploding between their joined bodies, staining their chests and stomachs with the erotic liquid.

"I'm… so close too…" Subaru's voice is whimsical as he ensures his lover. Kamui's body clenches over him in a death grip, wanting to take anything and everything his lover had inside him. With several more slow, price, and deep thrusts.

"Ka-ah-Kamui!" Subaru screams his lover's name before hurriedly burying his sounds between Kamui's sweet lips.

"Subaru…" Kamui loses his breath, gasping into their kisses as he finds his body being filled vigorously. His lover's hot white cum flowing insistently deep inside him, made him shiver… he found his own strained cock leaking more just from the feeling of being filled so well.

Those slow ensuring thrusts continue until every drop of love between their bodies is milked completely. Their bodies rock, slower and softer coming off of their climax.

Kamui has such a love-filled smile, so content. It can't be helped when Subaru's lips snatch them up, pulling and licking his way into another memorable kiss.

"I love you…" Subaru ensures breathing the words on tender lips. A hand reaches to brush over Kamui's feverish cheeks.

Kamui nods at this. The curl on his lips becomes a bit shyer… especially as he looks to see the proof of loving between their bodies.

"I love you too, Subaru," Kamui's Violet-blue eyes absolutely sparkle. They lose themselves into a series of soft, assuring kisses and embraces...with no rush to stop and get clean.

After several Blissful moments and being sure Kamui's legs have strength in them, he lowers his lover's feet to the floor.

Of course, a protective arm wraps around the slender waist to hold Kamui up just in case.

"Just let me take care of you from here," Subaru ensures surely with an endless array of devotion.

The younger lover closes his eyes, indulging in the way his lover's hands move across his body and cleanses them both to be ready to cuddle up in a relaxing, and well-earned bath.

---

Cold

The temperature inside Kamui's and Subaru's home would always end up so warm and pleasant.

Outside, was another story. Things were only getting colder and colder in Tokyo. Everyone on the streets was bundled up in layers wearing coats, scarves, gloves, everything…

While Kamui had some awareness of regulating his internal temperature, he wasn't fully sure of how all of these powers worked. So, the young man was bundled up snuggly, wearing layers of long sleeve tops, a large poofy scarf, and one of Subaru's coats on top of his own smaller one.

Subaru sweetly gazes upon his cold lover, all bundled up. Though his lover occasionally begins shivering just the slightest. Cute twitches of a button nose and soft pitched sneezes sent the older male's heart stuttering.

'I can't believe you're mine…' Subaru internally gushes, expertly managing to keep the feeling off his face. He wraps his arm around Kamui's waist, guiding him to stay even closer and take in his warmth.

Of course, Kamui can spot the glow in his lover's eyes. One that lights those gold and green orbs to the point of sparkling… one that meant, he felt very happy about something.

Kamui shook his head, trying to wipe the mushy curl that almost always came to his lips when around Subaru. "You seem pleased…" He comments softly, feeling relief as his hand gets wrapped in the warmth of his lover's glove and pocket.

"You could say that," Subaru responds with a certain charm. He threaded his fingers between Kamui's, nice and secure.

"Hm is that so…" Kamui playfully hums his soft reply. His mind swarming with images and body still feeling everything that had developed between them.

'It feels right…' He couldn't help that pervasive thought, not when it came to Subaru. Kissing, touching, lovemaking...all of it went so naturally between them. As though it were preordained yet somehow being something he confidently made a choice on.

'I chose you,' Kamui innerly acknowledges, attention gazed upon the beautiful face just inches above his own. 'I definitely didn't have control falling this hard… but it's nice…'

"Ah, Kamui?" Subaru voices, grabbing his lover put from his thoughts. "I was thinking…" He starts, looking a bit tentative with pursed lips.

Kamui only squeezes his boyfriend's hand in soft reassurance to whatever this was.

"The holidays are coming up…" Subaru prefaces, gesturing with a tilt of the head to the newly decorated stores. Countless strings of lights hung from all the snow-covered roofs and canopies.

"That's true," Kamui agreed with a sense of relaxation. 'I have a feeling where this is going…'

"So… is there…" Subaru stops in front of one of the gaming shops. Kamui follows his lead, smiling at the way Subaru subconsciously tugged him back into a close hug. A defense from letting his precious angel from being swept away by crowds. Rows of sweet couples walked by them, though none seeming quite as blissful as they were here. "Is there anything you'd like for Christmas?"

"..." Kamui thought over this offer with the same tenderness his lover gave for making it. Still, there wasn't anything coming to mind. 'I have everything I want here…' He thinks a little abashed, not able to voice those thoughts aloud. "I'm happy just spending the day with you."

Subaru's eyes lit up rivaling the Christmas lights across from them. He shook his head so fondly. His eyelids closed partway, blissfully turning to Kamui.

"If you think of anything let me know," Subaru insists upon this, stepping in a little closer to face Kamui. His warm breath teases the love-bitten lips from earlier. But… considering the lack of privacy, he moves to plant a kiss upon his lover's head. "Alright?"

Kamui nods at this. "Okay." Not that he would directly ask his lover for things like that. "You too…" But sure enough… Subaru would catch on, hearing about a new video game or manga coming out that Kamui enjoyed. Either from Kamui's casual mention of liking something or… getting ideas texted to him from Kamui's friends, carefully eyeing things they knew Kamui would like but not ask for.

"Is there… anything you'd like?" Kamui inquires quietly. It was only fair, his violet orbs sparkled, looking up with a gentle curiosity as he tilted his head slightly.

'You're unfairly cute…' Unfortunately, this wasn't the place to scoop Kamui up in his arms and lavish him with kisses.

"I ah…" Subaru clears his throat, forcing down the flush to his cheeks. Fantasies of them spending the day in their bedroom was…. Quite appealing.

'Ever since that night…' He found it hard to focus on much else but wanted to be just as intimate and reenact what they had done before. "I don't really…"

Kamui frowns at this, purposely sulking. His shoulders shrug down in an attempt to get his lover to react.

The soft whisper of a chuckle was reaction enough. Subaru held a hand to his lips before petting the top of his love's head.

Kamui can't help but redden under this kind of touch.

"I… will let you know if that changes," Subaru supplies, despite how neither would ask for things from one another.

"Aw…" Kamui slightly whines, lips pursing and pouting up. "I'll have to think of something then…"

"Although there is one thing…" Subaru quietly mentions as they proceed with their stroll down the shops.

"Oh?" Kamui raised his raven eyebrows, eyes lifting with great interest. "What is it?" He happily responded, feeling a bit eager to hear his selfless lover requesting something.

"I really want for us to go out on a really nice date on Christmas Eve," Subaru answers with a dreamy smile. Kamui returns the look in a meeker response, hearing the adoration seeping out his lover's lips. "Something really special."

"Ah…" Kamui glances down upon feeling an intense amorous emotion. He can't help but to look up and confirm that bliss in two beautiful gold-emerald orbs.

"Well... That goes without saying right?…" Kamui abashedly scratches his cheek. "I love g-going out with you," pauses to catch his breath, calming his nerves. "On our dates… I've treasured all of them… so of course, I want to have that time with you…" His voice turned softer and smaller as he realized how he was vocalizing more of these embarrassing thoughts.

"I'm very happy then," Subaru returns with his eyes dazzling like the constellation he was named after. His beaming smile was almost blinding.

"Still you're always the one… setting those things up… I'd like to find a gift I can give entirely to you." Kamui returned the look albeit a little softer, even more private. His mind supplied how his wording could be read…but he didn't take back or try to correct those words.

'I definitely can't deny you… anything like that…' More intimate 'gifts' were certainly on the table and quite adored by both parties.

"Well, there is one… more thing…" Subaru admits to, with a tiny smile and a little more pink blooming on his cheeks.

"Oh? What is it?" Kamui responds very eagerly. Earnest Violet-blue eyes find a special interest in the luminous blush sprouting from his lover's cheeks.

"Only if you… would want to…" Subaru sounds even more uncertain.

"Of course I do," Kamui assures, though finds his heart racing at the potential request.

"What I want is…" Subaru so gently murmurs the answer. His fingers brush through his lover's hair, finding a tiny snowflake fallen there.

"A Christmas cake," Subaru finally breathes out, reddening even more for his unexpected request.

"A Christmas Cake?" Kamui blurts out. Though not entirely surprised his lover did enjoy more sentimental and custom gifts.

"Yes," Subaru ensures, caressing his lover's cool cheeks. "One made by you."

"O-of course I can do that…'' Kamui ensures blinking, as his mind rakes over the significance his lover found in a small present like that. "I can do more than that even…" He clears his throat a bit, curiously asking. "But why a Christmas cake?"

"I've never actually had one…" Subaru admits this little fact with a light pinkness taking over his features once more. He

"Really?" Kamui replies, though not entirely surprised. His lover's upbringing was far from the norm.

"That's right," Subaru confirmed for him. He gazed off into the sky with a sense of bittersweet emotions. "My sister… Hokuto…she would bake all kinds of desserts. But, she told me there was 'something special about a Christmas cake, especially when you can share it… with a lover…"

Kamui blushes a deeper pink than his beloved. 'Sharing with a lover…' There's a budding heat in his chest at the request… and his boyfriend being comfortable enough to talk openly with it.

"Is that so…" Kamui returns. He keeps his courage to keep his lover's gaze, even when overwhelming feelings sweep in. His lips curl up, as he rests his head upon his lover's shoulder, cuddling closer. His beaming smile, and dazzling violet-blue orbs, make his lover lose his breath.

"I'll be happy to make one for you." 'The best Christmas Cake imaginable...all for you.' He internally promises, before stepping in front of a familiar cafe, as they step outside the snow to warm up.

---

~Shopping~

Colorful and bright stars and Christmas lights were devoted throughout CLAMP school. The spring weather stayed intact for the school. However, that wasn't to say there weren't simulation rooms, reflecting a perfect snowy day.

All the Christmas flowers, mistletoe, and tinsel were pinned up all throughout the hallways.

This went the same for their CLAMP shopping center. A fully lit Christmas tree was in the middle of the road. The garden staff clearly attended to it, it gave off such a fresh pine scent.

Dangling ornaments of silver and gold were hung. Upon the top, in place of a star was the school's mascot. The cartoon-style fish sat on the treetop with its goofy smile.

"I can't believe it's already time for all this ?" Kamui commented quietly, ducking his head a bit as he entered the store.

He could feel the eyes of his fans on him. It was bad enough he drew attention to being popular. But he was also here with one of the most popular teachers on campus.

"The holidays are coming up quickly," Karen says, brushing a hand under the pink curls by her neck. She held up her well-manicured hand out to the side and then brought it to her face. "We still have to go through all the rehearsals for the Christmas play, and have costumes redesigned for our new actors."

"That sounds like a lot…" Kamui comments uncertain on more to add. He rubs the back of his neck. "I ah… never really was involved with drama clubs at my schools." 'Nor any club. Or going to class in general… before CLAMP school.' "So I don't know much about the process but it seems like you've been really busy…"

"It is a lot of work," Karen assures with a shake of her head, smiling in her eyes. "But seeing all those students working day in and day out… Being able to help them express themselves on the stage. I feel I'm finding a new passion." There's a flash of absolute brilliance in the way Karen beams, describing her students and job with such devotion.

"That's honestly amazing," Kamui tells her, feeling pride in his doting friend. "

"Well, thank you, coming from you, that really does mean a lot," Karen says in a voice that comes out so nurturing and reminiscent to Kamui of his mother. "You've been plenty busy with exams, right?" She placed her hand on the top of Kamui's head, ruffling it.

"Y-yeah that's right…" Kamui responds, mind a bit too preoccupied. I have studied… but there's been...more important things on my mind.

Karen smirks a little bit, seeing the young student staring off at one of the bookshelves in a daze. Then there was the rising fire to his cheeks.

"Hm…" She whimsically carries out, following as Kamui leads them towards a seemingly random route through the store. "Perhaps… you've had your own passion to focus on, as of late?"

"I-" Kamui blushes a deep growing red. His mouth slightly opened as Violet-blue eyes widened. She hurriedly looked around the various aisles hoping he wasn't drawing more attention.

Bullseye.

"I can tell, you know," Karen expresses in a teasing yet somehow sweet voice. She places a hand on Kamui's shoulder before whispering. "When you're thinking of your boyfriend."

Kamui ducked his head away, holding a hand over his mouth. He kept himself from fumbling a response.

It seems pointless to deny the obvious by now. A shift in their conversation may be in order. "I… have been thinking about Subaru and what gift to buy him…" Kamui mentions, hanging his head a little at the feeling of uncertainty. "He didn't give me a lot of ideas. Not ones I could wrap up anyway…"

"Oh?" A perfectly tweezed pink eyebrow rose. Curiously Karen asks with a giggle. "What ideas did he give you?"

"Ah…" Kamui blush returns, albeit a bit of a lighter pink. His mind strayed from more embarrassing memories. His index finger brushed at his cheek. "To… go out together on Christmas eve."

"Sounds like you'll have quite a romantic evening," Karen sing-song with a little wink.

Kamui's gaze turns away, towards the bookshelf and the sign hanging over it. 'Paranormal' is written in the bold font above.

"I do look forward to it," Kamui discloses. It seemed obvious enough. His lips brushed together, shifting from side to side as he thought over things.

"But… that still seems more like something where he'll be the one treating me… he always does…" Kamui thinks with a bit of a frown. "He never really lets me pay for things on our dates…" He voices with frustration. "And I want to be the one to give him a gift."

Karen placed a hand over her lips, barely able to stop any of the laughter coming through. "Sorry," She comments, looking anything but. Kamui's little glare and flushed pink cheeks made for an adorable combo.

"It's just that…" She looked towards the lovesick teen with sympathy, he was this ruffled over not being sure what to gift for his boyfriend. "He's so enamored with you. I'm sure you could give him just about anything here and he'd treasure it his whole life."

"Maybe…" Kamui fought down the gushing smile. "But I want to give him something very special that he would really like." A long stretched-out sigh escapes his lips, his shoulders fall. "I am going to bake him a Christmas cake," Kamui mentions, fondness clouding his eyes.

"A Christmas cake?" Karen inquires with an intrigued glance and widening smile. "That's so cute!"

"One that I will make for him…" Kamui quietly explains, nodding a bit.

'It's way too cute…When he looks so happy asking for something so small…. I could never say no…'

Karen laughs at the sight of a flushed Kamui smiling and sighing to himself with so much fondness over whatever he was thinking. She can't help but gush, staring off dreamily. "You two are already like newlyweds," she clapped her hands together joyfully.

Kamui attempted to bury himself into his school uniform, the most he could with the shirt collar. He chose to keep his gaze upon the sections of books in front. Unable to respond until his heartbeat calmed.

"It's… not like that, " He weakly denies, at last. Thankfully his friend gave him a moment to calm down after her teasing.

Or so he thought. He did his best to return to their earlier topic.

"But, I want to give him something else, that would really make him happy."

Karen couldn't help herself. She held a comforting hand over the other's shoulder.

"Kamui, you may be overthinking this. You two know each other well," Her tone turned maternal, offering her thoughts.

"I'm sure he'll be in heaven with that cake or anything you make especially. But if you're set on finding an ideal present I'm sure it will come to you… What matters most is that you spend that day together right?"

Kamui glances down at the hand on his shoulder. He smiles softly and lowers his head. "That's true…" He agrees to return to or begin to start shopping t for books.

'Perhaps… I should get some new cookbooks while I'm at it…'

"I'll find something he'll like, " Kamui vocalized with more assurance.

'And maybe give back a bit of everything he's given me…'

"I'm certain you've already given him something he'll never forget…" Karen begins mischievously, fingers lacing together and under her chin.

"What… Do you mean?" Kamui says warily, expecting to be at least mildly mortified. She was way too perceptive at times.

"You do have even more of a glow to your skin than usual…" She says whimsically, brushing her hand and patting the side of Kamui's face before retreating it. "So either you've started a new skincare routine… or things have been progressing very well with your Subaru."

"That's not-" Kamui sputters, heart-moving wildly as his brain unhelpfully supplies images of their first night. Was there a point in denying it? That seemed to only fuel his friends' interests. His hands hold to his cheeks, feeling for any changes.

Still… Everything intimate between him and Subaru is sacred. Kept deep in his heart and certainly not something he wished to tell.

"I… I mean we are…. Fine…" Kamui mumbles, opening a random book and burying his face further into the book pages. The cherry-red blush extends completely across his face.

"And, That reaction confirms it for me," Karen's eyes brightened, her smile giddy.

"I didn't...say anything like that…" Kamui groans his defenses, burying himself deeper into the bookshelf.

"You know Christmas Eve is a special time for lovers…" Karen added on all too curious and thrilled her former leader found happiness emotionally and on a physical level. "There's a shop near here where you could buy some things I'm sure he'd love."

Perhaps… This was a mistake… "I ah-I'm going to look at the cooking section real quick-" It was true enough he planned to buy some. Though this was a needed diversion, the poor boy found himself almost dizzy with the blood rushing to his cheeks.

Yuzuriha and Keiichi were not much better when helping with ideas. But at least they didn't tease him or talk quite as openly about sex, namely his own sex life.

Somehow they found themselves at a craft and hobby store. It was almost overwhelming with all the different colors of fabric, threads, needles, yarn, and art supplies. That's just what he could see stepping in. There were tons of things to help him on his Christmas quest.

"I think Subaru will love gifts you make for him the most then!" Yuzuriha exclaimed, bouncing on the tips of her toes. Even her precious Inuki was wagging his tail. Not that the store's employees would notice.

Keiichi had come along exuding that same cheerful attitude. He slapped a hand to Kamui's shoulder and grinned. "That's right! You're so talented! I bet there are hundreds of things you could make from here!" He turned around, arms stretched out to show the vastness of the store.

"Let's start with one… " Kamui proposed but found himself wrapped up in a positive atmosphere. His friend's energy was contagious.

"Well, I have gotten a lot of practice with cooking and baking… maybe we can find something here-"

Kamui attempted to finish but found his wrist grasped by a cheerful Yuzuriha. One with enough energy to drag him across the store, seeming to know the right place to begin.

Keiichi simply laughed but followed along, catching up quickly.

This was tiring but a start… Yuzuriha stood on her tiptoes. Her soft brown eyes brightened with stars. That dreamy expression indicated there was something related to love and romance here.

"Oh my gosh this is so perfect!-"

"I'm just… going to look at the next aisle," Kamui interrupted quickly, holding a hand to cover his burning cheekbones. What Karen had mentioned earlier still had him flustered… and the acceptance being brought into Subaru's family…

It was a bit too much for his heart to get to. Just thinking of himself being Subaru's boyfriend and lover was still flustering. Let alone… further planning.

The aisle they found was for baking… wedding cakes. He soon found for once, his relationship wasn't the main focus.

Yuzuriha's hands laced and held to her heart. Her eyes fluttered, staring off dreamily… lost in her own fantasies. She whispered to herself. "One day…"

Kamui made something of silent prayer for her and all his friends to find that happiness.

'I'm incredibly lucky to have found and somehow won over Subaru.' The love-fueled student reflects. He looks back at his friends, laughing and chatting in the adjacent aisle. The spirit dog wagged his tail in pure bliss beside his human companion.

A warmth came over him. He was surrounded by all types of love.' I'll be sure to make something for their Christmas gifts as well.'

Kamui keeps this additional shopping goal as motivation. It isn't long before he finds himself needing more than just the small shopping basket to hold all the supplies.

---

Bindings…

The holidays brought out a plethora of emotions. The most prominent one was so very warm. His heart was overflowing with Kamui. He could truly say he was happy.

But it didn't mean there weren't those he missed… at times like this.

"Hokuto…'" Subaru calls to her in the silence. There's no it had always been.

Bittersweet memories reminded him of earlier years… Hokuto dressed up elaborately in some kind of Santa, Elf, or Reindeer-themed attire. He always ended up having to wear one to go along with it. Now, those holidays were precious memories he could only cherish in his heart.

The kitchen was overflowing with baked goods. Hokuto would make him plenty of sweets, clothes, gloves, and scarves that were perfect for the cold.

And on their last Christmas together…. It wasn't just them… the bitterness and pain.

Seishirou, still seeming at least semi-innocent and kind-hearted… came in with an armful of presents and flowers in hopes to 'woo' the 16-year-old Subaru.

Their little Christmas party was cut short by a phone call from a desperate-sounding client. The holiday became another day of work for the boy…

But somehow it worked better than way. He didn't have to hold memories of the entire day filled with false hope and kindness...

Of course… It goes beyond just memories.

His eye, his first kiss, first kiss, and these powers. Were haunting reminders Seishirou had engrained himself so deeply into Subaru's life.

Never to be forgotten, even while his heart was given to Kamui. That romantic love he felt for Seishirou hadn't remained. Yet, there was always so much pain and a lingering reminder of how his heart first learned to love and shatter all in such a short time.

So right here… and now…

Subaru stepped forward, carefully as though the lush greenery around were made of glass. Gold and emerald hues fall behind closed eyelids, as his hand outstretched with a light aura glow. His palm pressed flat to the never-changing trunk of the cherry tree.

This was it… what he could feel.

"Sometimes… I wi-" Subaru quickly cuts himself off. Wishes were dangerous things. "I want to be free from those past bindings ." Your memory. The powers I've inherited. All of this.

The new Sakurazukamori lingered at the trunk of the tree, listening in for that voice. Warm sakura-pink light glows around his hand.

The cherry blossoms respond. Not in words… but sentiments, feelings, urges.

I'm satisfied for now.

The feeling comes through, it's one vivacious and merciless hunger had calmed greatly by Kamui.

But I will crave more… Namely, the lost darkened souls and humans committing irredeemable acts to the newly restored earth.

"I understand…" Subaru responds vocally, yet still whispers softly. Not that there were any presences here.

"But I won't lose myself… nor harm anything innocent with these powers." The spiritualist vows to himself. Preferably… the 'sacrifices' of vengeful and harmful spirits could be taken more than the living…

I have to be able to come back home to Kamui and look him in the eyes after I finish my work. Subaru reflects a bit painfully. I can't… I won't become like my… my… Predecessor.

Subaru finds his free hand clutching his chest. Yet, somehow it doesn't hurt as much as he expected. To refer to his former love… because that's all Seishirou could be to him now. The man who shattered his heart and left him the chance to take over his duties.

His future and heart lie with Kamui. Somehow just the thought of his beautiful lover makes the tightness dissipate.

'If it's for your sake… I'll use these powers. But I hope not to have to…'

Though his worries convinced him there was still something to be vigilant about. His lover was a magnet for spirits. His family still was uncertain… those destined to be shadow sacrifices, surely they all wouldn't be happy to pass on to the afterlife without some regrets.

Subaru let his hand slip from the tree, wishing it adieu. He had someone irreplaceable waiting for him after all.

'And you'll see right through me, my love.'

The dual-rolled spiritualist curls his lips, before placing his hands within the satin coat. His mind opens the image of Kamui walking close to him down the snow-covered road to one of their favorite cafés. The feeling of Kamui's warmth, their hands entangled in this same pocket lingered.

That precious emotion followed him all the way back home. Turning the knob was akin to opening heaven's gate, after a long tiring workday.

"Subaru?" Kamui greets him, seemingly worried by knitting eyebrows and slight frowns. "You're finally done with work right?"

"That's right." Subaru's lips curled fondly though weakly. He felt his heart go through a jumpstart, feeling Kamui rush up and hug him like that. Long slender arms wrapped so snuggly around his waist. The shorter male's face snuggled near the collar of the satiny coat.

"It's because I really missed you," Kamui answers the unspoken question. Glittery purple doe-eyes capture the older man's heart.

"I missed you too," Subaru returns with love, his voice still a little weak. His arms snuggly bring Kamui up closer to him. The very tip of his tiptoes was barely touching the ground.

The need to grow closer took over. They remained lost in a slow yet assuring embrace. They were both here together, feeling and breathing each other in. Beautiful gold-emerald and violet-blue orbs lit with this sense of revitalization.

"Should I make us some tea?" Kamui kindly offers, as his hands glide up to help his lover out of his coat.

"Ah, you don't have to do that… I can make some for us and-"

Kamui put a finger to his boyfriend's lips. "You're half-asleep, so relax on the couch and let me take care of you." His index finger retreated from those soft lips and was followed up with a sweet kiss.

One that could easily lead to more… but Kamui is determined to get his tired lover to rest. He spins around and proceeds to head to their kitchen.

Subaru fondly watches his lover retreat and slip out of his shoes. He does as instructed, heading toward the couch across near where his adorable Kamui is working.

Though his beloved doesn't take more than a few minutes. The petite young man saunters towards their living room with a steaming cup in each hand.

"Thank you," Subaru says, taking the offered drink out to him. "You're wonderful," He expresses, the words simply falling out naturally.

There wasn't intent on making Kamui's cheeks light up red, but it's a nice bonus after a long day.

And Kamui is very observant of his lover's pleased sighs and adoring gazes. The younger man waits graciously, for his love to settle in and finish most of his tea.

"What happened today?" Kamui inquires, with a mix of emotions. His lips pursed and eyes downcast, seeing his reflection in the cup.

"It was… a long day at work, nothing I haven't dealt with before… but it was fatiguing…."

Kamui smiles with deep adoration. "I think that's natural. Anyone would be with all you do." He shakes his head with a bittersweet little hum. "But of course, my boyfriend still tries to take on so much work, without complaint… to the point where you're about to collapse…" Dark raven brows furrow." It worries me.

"I'm sorry for that," Subaru says as though on autopilot, though his tone remained sincere.

Kamui sighs, placing his cup of tea on the table. He finds himself comforting his love with his now free hands.

"You don't need to be sorry. I only need for you to take care… and love yourself a little more." Kamui voices his heart. His gentle fingers graze the older male's cheeks. "Can you do that for me?" The question is brimming with hope. Violet-blue doe eyes glistened, working in full effect to bring down all barriers and really get his love to speak from the heart.

I can't so no to those eyes… It was still a struggle, but he only promises what he can follow through on.

"I will try harder to do that…" Subaru complies, with wavering confidence. Loving Kamui was so much easier than loving and being gentle with himself.

"I'm glad," Kamui returns, seemingly pleased. "But one other thing?"

"... Yes?"

"I know you were gone to different jobs all day… but it felt… later than usual? I don't know how to say it… but, was there something else."

Subaru doesn't question how his love can be this intuitive. He simply breathed in the tea's aroma and thought of his answer.

All it takes is a single look. Emerald and gold eyes, water and darkness cloud over the dazzling gems his lover has for eyes. Subaru bit inside his mouth, below the lip, and curled into a pained frown.

"Oh, no… please…" Kamui stumbles, regret building up in possibly going into things that were… a bit too draining for his love to deal with. "I knew there was something… but if it's really not what you want to talk about now… you don't have to of course."

Kamui turned to wrap his arms securely around his lover's shoulders. Subaru hugged back the best he could without spilling his drink on Kamui.

It was almost gone anyway… Subaru manages to take that last sip. Before he breaks open just a little…

"I don't mind… talking with you over this… perhaps it's better that I do…"

"What do you mean?"

Kamui felt they were exploring heavier topics… and found himself reacting. He guides Subaru to rest back on the couch.

Somewhere along the line of sweet looks and tender caresses, they come to a comfortable place. Kamui ensures Subaru's head is brought safely to rest right in his lap.

His lover visibly relaxed after a brief moment… lost in thought. The fingers brushing through his hair… made things… easier.

Kamui remained quiet, patient as his lover sorted out his emotions.

"I… know it's not the same as before… because of you, the tree is able to live without innocent blood being shed which I couldn't be more grateful for…" Subaru bites inside his mouth, near his lips. "Still… my own choices, meant I am bound to those Cherry Blossoms…"

"I know…" Kamui comforts, brushing little zigzag patterns through his lover's hair.

"And also it… scares me still…" Subaru admits, guilt glooming over the luminance of his eyes, Kamui could effortlessly bring out. "Working with me… and because the thought of someone or something trying to hurt you."

"But you don't need to worry over that!" He insistently refutes, wishing this worry would fade out. "I'm for better or worse stuck with the power of 'The Kamui' … So I won't let anything happen to either of us. " The only entity in this world that could harm Kamui… was Kamui himself… the lack of control.

But that had gotten better… Kamui thinks with rising hope. Drawn out meditations and going out on a handful of minor jobs, gave him that sense of control and purpose. And I'll be able to help you even more now.

"I know that… but I can't help but… feel the need to keep you safe." Subaru's protective nature comes through once more. "So you don't have to use those powers unnecessarily."

"Subaru…" Kamui calls for him, worried. His eyes quiver and lock upon the beautiful pair resting upon him. "I… know it's not your first choice job for me…" He could admit that much. "But I can promise you I'll work harder every day, so you don't feel a need to worry… I'll be able to at your keep us safe."

"I don't doubt your strength or progress controlling it," Subaru ensures his beloved, reaching an arm up. His fingers reach to brush a soft cheek. "I still have worries… of even my own abilities…"

"What do you mean?" Kamui returns, eyes raising, unexpected.

"There's still the danger of the unknown. Your family remains a concerning mystery…" Subaru admits the worries he's held in his mind, honestly since first hearing of Kamui's family origins. "The Maga is… Being destined to be a sacrifice… wouldn't some of those people hold some regret having to pass on so quickly?"

"I guess you have a point. But it's not something," Kamui's eyebrows knit together, hating to have to agree on this. "I never really knew that side of my family, so I don't hold any particular attachment outside of my mother and aunt. It's not like I would be holding back or allowing any harm to come from them. "

"The thought of something coming to target you… it brings out this impulse, one I worry I won't be in full control of."

"An impulse… as in to use the power of the Sakura?"

"That's right.." "The mere thought of someone wishing harm on you… drives out an overwhelming feeling… and I find myself Blinded… the urge to use these new powers… it's frightening…"

"I know my… predecessor had been protective of me, even if for his own intentions." "I wonder if he felt that same urge… as he would wipe out anything that sought out cause me harm… if we have that in common then-"

"Subaru, you will never be like him!" Kamui stopped his words immediately, lowering his head to capture quivering lips up with his own, in a lingering embrace.

"Subaru… You're naturally so incredibly kind it makes my heart skip beats!" He speaks directly from the heart. "You are Sumergai Subaru, you are my Subaru… and perfect being just who you are. There's absolutely no comparison-'' Kamui blurted his confession to the point of burning up. His cheeks reflected a fiery magma hue.

Subaru lifts both of his arms up, he cradles both of Kamui's cheeks in one hand. Kamui holds one of those tender hands to his cheek.

"Thank you…I… " Subaru returns, arms falling back down to his side. He releases a long yawn, eye blinking sleepily. "'Love you and…"He meant to say more Go further into this… but it was draining. Being right at home cuddled in Kamui's lap brought him to a much-needed rest.

"Sweet Dreams," Kamui whispers, indulging in the sight of his cozy lover cuddled in his lap.

Chapter End