Well… That went out later than expected… T-T … Sorry guys, I had a pretty rough week.
First exams, and then a bad case of food poisoning and hospitalization, currently resting in bed and writing fanfiction.
Sorry for all the tears, angst and frustration the last chapter caused, but… It had to happen for the plot to move forward… I was really anxious about that chapter because it really gives a blow to both Zero's and Kaname's image, but hey, when two blockhead collide, shit goes down!
Both of them deserved what was coming their way, really!
Do not worry, the coming chapters are not as angst-filled as the previous ones, I would say that they have a good balance between fun, drama, angst and a bit of lame moments thrown in the mix :p
I can understand why Aido was bashed, but I could not get why Gin got some curses as well. I shudder thinking about what you guys will do to him when he really tries to steal Zero. The guy was harmless so far., yes I said was & so far.
You all have the right to curse at him OR give him the biggest hug after chapter 40. (Gosh I can't believe that I am reaching that number already)
Btw, a I don't know why but I had this song on rewind while writing the previous chapter and this one as well, Zac Brown Band - Sweet Annie, and it is certainly not the song Kaname played on the piano.
A little explanation about the pregnancy test. The ones that vampires use rely on blood instead of 'wee'. You can think about it like a normal pregnancy stick but with a slot where to drop a bit of blood and wait for the result to show.
∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞ Continuation ∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞
After making the bold statement of visiting the hunter, Gin was starting to wonder if it was the best decision. Zero was not answering his calls, and even ignored the one he attempted from a payphone. Ichiru's silence added to the anxiety he was feeling towards the situation. Against his better judgment, he decided to make the trip and visit the hunter on the next day. New Year's celebration was around the corner and he hated the thought of the twins fighting during such times. He told a white lie Ichiru, so that he does not feel as if he was the one who sent him to reason with his brother. He knew that he was getting too meddlesome, but he had a feeling that he needed to intervene on this one. After all, he knew how important family is and how painful it is to be on bad terms when you are that close.
That is how he found himself if front of the building where the silverette dwells. He opted to buzz the doorbell from downstairs first, after few failed attempts, he asked the receptionist after giving him the apartment number.
"I am sorry sir; we don't really keep tabs on our residents. He might have left on a different shift than ours. If you have doubts about his wellbeing, than we will have to go through the proper channels and have someone check on him first."
"Oh! That is okay, I do have a key, so I will check myself."
"Ara!" The voice of an old cleaning lady caught their attention, "If I have not gone senile yet, that apartment is where the gentleman with charming violet eyes lives, right?"
Gin was surprised that she knew him specifically but nodded, "Oh my! Then, go and check on him son. That child is one of the kindest residents; his place is always the easiest to clean to the point that I do not even see the need for my service. He is really polite and caring for a young man his age. Today, however, I went to clean and he turned me down. It is not a first, but he looked ill and seemed paler than ever. I was planning on going back to see if he has eaten anything after I finish my work, but if you are here for him, that would put my mind at ease for the rest of the day at least." She bowed and grabbed her mop to continue sweeping.
The grey-eyed male did not lose time to hop in the elevator and sprint to his destination. Opening the door, he was hit by the smell of stale air. The curtains were drawn and the lights were turned off, drowning the whole apartment in darkness. He quickly reached for the nearest block of switches with the help of his phone. As soon as the lights were back on, the sight that welcomed him floored Gin. He was grateful that the old woman did not have to witness the cluttered place, with shattered glass, flipped furniture and emptied bottles of liquor splattered everywhere.
A loud groan drew his attention to the curled up form in the one seater of the living room. Zero had his face scrunched up at the assault of the bright light. His hair was clammy and his pajama were wrinkled beyond recognition.
"Ugh! Wuzzit… I said no cleani-… What? It's you…?" Zero slurred in a bored tone as he got up groggily.
"Yeah! it's me drunkard." Gin snipped, no humor in his voice, "What are you doing?"
"Watching movies." Zero shrugged, pointing to the TV with a newly opened beer.
Gin stomped towards him after seeing the idle screen, snatching the beer and grabbing the wrist trying to reach for it. He immediately trapped Zero against the fridge after putting the can on the nearby counter. Holding the chin of the hunter who would not meet his eyes, he scrutinized the face he barely recognized with the ashen skin, slightly sinking cheeks and extremely dark circles under his eyes.
"How long have you not slept?"
"…"
"Have you eaten anything?"
Zero scoffed at the same question that the cleaning lady asked before he shooed her away. He reached for his pocket and pulled out a container of blood tablets, "Have been sustaining myself…"
Releasing his chin and placing his palm against the fridge, Gin's expression bounced from furiously angry to extremely worried until it settled on the latter. He let go of the visibly wretched hunter. They stood there for a long moment. Zero had no energy for any argument or any headache inducing activity.
Seeing that the violet eyes were vehemently avoiding his, Gin wondered about one thing, "Zero… Are you really drunk?"
The hunter flinched, still looking away, "Alcohol never affected me much, my state of mind, I mean." He glanced as Gin was walking around, bending and picking one of the scattered bottles. "I see… They do not contain that thing Kaito told me about… The one you drank when we crashed at Ichiru's, something wine…"
"Silver wine." Zero finished for him.
"Yes… That's the one… Why are you drinking this much then?" Gin asked with a puzzled expression.
"I finished my work and had nothing better to do…"
Gin tilted his head, now that is new. He looked around again. "How long have you been cooped up here?"
"Dunno, couple of days."
"Is this because of the fight you had with Ichiru?" Gin asked, swinging the empty bottle around. He paused when Zero startled and gave him a seething look.
He quickly raised his hands in a defensive posture, "I don't know the details… I just assumed that you guys had a fight seeing how gloomy he was when I met him on campus. He did not tell me anything." He explained quickly, sensing that the hunter might really attack him if he actually made Ichiru tell him about what happened. Was it that bad? Ichiru looked quite panicked as well when I insinuated that I might help them reconcile.
Zero's fury vanished quickly in favor of a mildly surprised look, he mumbled a question, "He is at the Academy?"
After a brief moment, Gin nodded.
The teacher was more confused when he saw relief washing over Zero's expression, as if he gave him the best news of the year. Taking advantage of the better mood, he spoke again, "I ordered some food before reaching here. It should arrive any moment."
Zero quirked an eyebrow at the innocent look of the taller man, "What food?" he asked when his suddenly rambling stomach made him blush from embarrassment.
Gin smirked at the action, "Korean. Go wash up while I wait for it."
The silverette suddenly felt a bit less lethargic, the news of his brother being with his lover might have lifted his spirits a bit. He still worried that Ichiru was alone in his apartment, being the crybaby he is, bawling his eyes out after being abandoned by the two persons he cared about the most. After a quick shower and a fresh change of clothes, he came back to a spotless and sunny living room. He then realized how murky the air was before Gin opened every window and the balcony door to let the fresh winter breeze whoosh in.
Luckily, the older man was coming back just in time with the bags of food in hand. Zero quickly joined him on the dining table to dig in. They enjoyed the meal over a lighthearted conversation about mischievous students and the work that Gin will have to do before he can move in his new house. Zero picked on him when he found that he was spot on about the areas that needed maintenance in the building.
However, the pleasant time was abruptly cut off when Zero's face turned greenish and he rushed to the bathroom. Gin did not waste time to run after him, rubbing his back as the hunter emptied his stomach. He helped him stand and wash his face before waiting for the hunter to clean his mouth while asking, "Are you okay? Do you need me to bring anything?"
"Nnn… Nothing… I am good." Zero mumbled as he patted the towel against his face with one hand and clutching his stomach with the other.
Going back to the living room, the hunter cringed at the sight of the food and asked Gin to put it away for he could not handle the smell of it. The teacher complied, but took the liberty to make a lemonade as well, dropping a couple of ice cubes in it before offering the drink to the hunter chilling on the couch.
Zero exhaled in relief as the zesty drink washed away the sick sensation in the back of his throat. He looked at the teacher sitting beside him, with a clearer mind now,
"What did you come here for? The real reason." Zero asked, he could not shake the feeling that his brother had something to do with the sudden visit.
"Just felt like it." Gin shrugged before grinning, "I missed you."
Zero rolled his eyes and took another sip, "Yeah, right! You are just trying to convince me that you are no lackey to no one."
"I am not." Gin mocked an offended expression while crossing his arms.
"I don't remember giving you a key."
"Ah!" The teacher slapped his own forehead, caught off guard.
"Yep." Zero gave him a victorious smirk, drinking whatever left of the drink.
"Okay… I am confessing the truth. I saw Ichiru, holding this key. He seemed down, I tried to get him to open up and talk as always to lighten his mood, but he was more distressed than usual." Zero frowned at the thought of his brother being sad, "I gathered that you two had a 'bigger' fight than usual, worry was obvious in his eyes and voice when talking about you. So~ The meddlesome man here is trying to reconcile the two loving brothers… Ah! And before you assume anything, Ichiru did try to prevent me when he thought that I was going to do just that. Therefore, I kind of brushed him off. So, my answer is no, I am not his lackey, informant, spy or whatever."
Zero stared at him for a moment before sighing deeply, "You came here for nothing then. The situation is more complicated and your wise words will not settle it. While we are on the subject, I want you to give me that key and never come here as well."
The last slip of tongue caused Zero's downfall, "As well?"
Zero bit the inside of his cheek, at the serious questioning gaze in those grey eyes. "Zero, did you cut your brother off?"
"…"
"Are you serious?" Gin whispered
"He is better off living his life without me around." Zero deadpanned, leading to Gin running his palm across his own face in frustration.
"Okay. It is official. You are stupid." He clapped before shifting to pull his phone from his back pocket.
"Wha…? What? Who are you calling?" Zero was about to retort but asked when he saw Gin dialing and putting his ringing phone on speakers.
"Ichiru." Gin answered.
"What? No-mphh!" Zero panicked, but Gin covered his mouth in time with the call connection.
"Hello! Gin?" Ichiru's voice resonated through the handheld device.
"Hey there…" Gin answered cheerfully, ignoring the deadly glare Zero was giving him while trying his best not to make any sound.
"What's up?" Ichiru asked, Zero noticed that his voice sounded drained.
"Guess where I am right now?" Gin asked
"… I don't know… wait… don't tell me… Nii-san's?" Zero's heart ached at the optimistic tone of his twin.
"Yep." Gin confirmed.
"How is he? Is he okay, is he sick, is he eating, sleeping…"
"He is in the shower right now. We had a Korean style late lunch and I will try dragging him out for some fresh air."
A relieved sigh could be heard from the phone, "Thank goodness."
"Do you want to talk to him later?" Gin asked
A moment of pregnant silence stretched out before Ichiru mumbled, "I don't think that would be a good idea if you want to keep the good vibe between you two. Just don't bring me up in any conversation."
Gin looked at the older twin who was looking away by this time, but his ears would have flown and gotten glued to the phone if they were detachable. From the first reaction to Ichiru's voice, Gin understood that Zero did not push his twin away because he wanted to separate from him, although he did not get the real reason behind it, he was sure that Zero was hurting himself from his own decision.
"What if he asked about you? Just saying hypothetically." Gin insisted
Ichiru gave a dry laugh before taking a deep breath, "I don't know… If I were to talk to him…" The younger twin swallowed, hugging his form on the bed where he was lying, alone, "I would tell him that I miss him… Silly, I know! It has barely been three days since I last saw him but I do… Really, I miss him… *sniffle*… I…"
Gin grabbed Zero's wrist on time when the hunter was about to snatch the phone to hang up most probably.
"I… Ne, Gin…" Ichiru added
"What?"
"He will probably suspect that I sent you. If he insist that you might have a message from me, could you relay one?"
Gin smirked when Zero's struggling stilled at the question, "Sure"
"Could you tell him to show up during the New Year's celebration? I promise I won't bother him or go near him if he does not want me to. It is just… You know… with Sensei in Germany, Cross will probably need all of us around to cheer him up. He has always been there for us, it is a chance to be there for him as well. Also… Uhm… You should tell him that… Yuki-chan is very sad to have the father of her child not attending Ai's first Christmas party because of work. She was rambling about it all day today, how he up and left without prior notice. She called Nii-san many times because she did not like the idea of him not coming as well." Ichiru had hard time blurting Kaname's name without sounding spiteful. He was forcing a dejected look with Yuki while he wanted to do a happy dance knowing that he did not have to meet him anytime soon after what happened.
"Got it, I will make sure to tell him the message to the letter." Gin chirped before hanging up. He glanced at the hunter who had a serious look on his face while glaring at the phone.
"What is that about the Christmas party?" Zero pointed the roundabout question.
Gin was confused for a moment before getting the hint that he was asking about the deal with Kuran, "Kuran went abroad on a business trip. Takuma said that he had no idea when he will be back, but was certain that he will not be able to attend the dinner at Cross's house. Speaking of which, I was invited as well along with my sister and niece, it would really suck if you miss it." Gin pouted.
Zero tuned out all rambling that came after the news of Kaname being away. Many question roamed in his head, but the thought of a dejected Yuki, the thought of the little bundle of joy made his heart ache. It's my fault, as always…
"Zero?" Gin poked his shoulder, trying to get his attention again. When lavender eyes met his, he pointed to the phone, "That have been vibrating for a while."
Zero picked up the phone after staring at the eerily convenient caller ID. Gin took the now empty glass to the kitchen to give the awkward silverette some privacy.
Zero soon joined him in the kitchen, sighing in defeat.
"That is quiet an awful sigh…" Gin teased,
"Tell me about it…" Zero groaned, rubbing drooping eyes, "Will you be staying over?"
The question had Gin stop whatever he was doing and looking at the hunter properly, "Do you want me to?"
Zero rubbed the back of his head, "I have not slept much for the past two days, so I thought I could use a driver with me for the trip tomorrow."
Gin was confused, tilting his head, "trip?"
"To go attend this bloody dinner you were talking about."
Grey eyes widened in understanding, "Was that Ichiru… On the phone."
Zero shook his head as a negative answer and answered offhandedly as he got back to the comfort of the couch, "That was the two most annoying people… who adopted me when I lost everything." He mumbled the last part grudgingly as if suddenly remembering the importance of this time of the year for his 'family'. As much as he hated going through it each year, Cross never once abided by his complaints and managed to throw parties at every occasion he got, even if it was just the three of them only. He realized a little too late that it was those moments that made him feel human and less disgusted with himself, they made him feel less lonely and betrayed. The hunter hugged a pillow and dipped his chin in it, remembering what his twin said over the phone. The statement held more truth to himself than his twin, Cross Kaien did not only stood by him in the hardest times, he risked a lot just to protect him.
A big hand ruffling his silver hair gave him a nostalgic feeling of how the ex-hunter would wake him out of his daze, "I guess I won't mind being a chauffeur for a day."
Zero looked up to a grinning grey eyed male hovering over him.
"You can take the bed then; I will be watching TV here." Zero stated as he picked the remote and started browsing channels aimlessly.
Joining him on the seat again, Gin stretched and checked the time. "It is still early for that, anything good on?"
"Who knows?" Zero shrugged.
∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞ Cross Academy, Moon Dorm∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞
Ichiru sighed looking at the phone in his hand, internally praying that Gin manages somehow to convince his brother.
He quickly placed his phone back on the nightstand when the door opened to reveal his blond lover. The silver haired human was not aware that his lover came by much earlier, when he was talking on the phone but could not bring himself to enter.
∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞Back in Zero's apartment hours later.∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞
Midway through the movie, Gin spoke again, "Wanna eat something?" He got up after Zero refused the offer.
Minutes later, the teacher came back with microwaved leftovers that he was eating while watching the thriller. A groan coming from the hunter made him glance sideway to see Zero with a hand covering his mouth and nose. Looking from the hunter to the food and back to the hunter, he quickly got up and went to eat on the table in order to put some distance.
Zero felt bad for being so obvious, "Sorry," He craned his neck to look at Gin who waved a dismissing hand.
"Don't sweat it. It was my fault for making you remember the sick feeling that you had earlier. I am still worried about the cause of that, though. I don't think it is food poisoning."
It was Zero's turn to wave a dismissing hand, "More like alcohol poisoning. I get like that when I drink too much. It has been a while since it last happened though-" Zero stopped midway when he remembered it. The last time he felt sick from drinking too much… The time he actually vomited in the lap of a certain pureblood… The time marking the first night he knew the addicting side of the man named Kaname Kuran. In a blink, memories of their first encounter overlapped with those of the last one they had, the sick feeling in the back of his throat increased suddenly, making Zero jolt from his seat and rush to his bathroom.
Gin did not lose a second before following him, thinking that he would be having another fit. However, he found the hunter splashing his face with water and leaning on the sink with a blank look on his face.
"Are you okay?"
As if realizing that he was not alone, Zero startled at the voice and looked at the taller man, nodding. "I am fine. I just felt nauseous again, so I thought about using cold water to ward off the feeling, I will be back shortly."
forget him! forget him! Zero stood there, repeating the words like a mantra
Gin nodded and went back to his dinner. He was relieved to see the hunter back in his seat.
"I am good with the bed section of the couch by the way." Gin spoke, reminding Zero of the suggested sleeping arrangement.
"Nah! I am not going to jump you if that is what you are worrying about."
"Really?" Gin mocked a surprised tone.
"I need to check on few things before going with you tomorrow; I gave the technical staff an early vacation because I had the time to monitor the systems from home. But, since I will be going to Cross's place, I don't think I will have a minute of peace to work there."
Gin chuckled at the truth, but still felt bothered by the fact that Zero was planning to spend his time working, alone at home.
"You won't be getting any sleep, then?"
Not like I slept much in the past few days anyway. "I will catch some on the way back since you will be driving, that should be plenty."
"You should cut yourself some slack, especially if you are still feeling sick." Gin complained.
"I know, I won't overdo it… I will have more of that lemonade you made to get the shit out of my system, it kind of helped. Thanks for that."
"You're welcome…" Gin stood to throw the empty boxes of food, "It's funny though, I used to make that a lot for my sister whenever she felt sick. She was told that lemons helped a lot with morning sickness but she cringed each time she had to munch on one. I managed to get her to drink them like that somehow. She was never a fan of citrusy stuff." Gin rambled on and on in the kitchen without being aware of the way Zero stiffened in the couch.
Amethyst eyes widened, not really focusing on the flashing screen of the TV. Zero's brain went into an overdrive as the words sunk in. No… It can't be… I did take the test… Placing a hand on his abdomen, he tried to focus his senses to see if he could feel anything… The only sound he could make out was his rumbling stomach. Shaking his head as if to chase away the haunting thoughts, he tried to find a logic explanation as to why his body have been weakening lately. The sleepiness, the fatigue were symptoms that worried him because he had similar experience before. However, when those went away, he ruled out the possibility of being pregnant, especially with the negative test.
Biting his nails, he looked for all possible causes for such symptoms to persist. He could blame it on the alcohol; he could blame it on the stress and emotional rollercoaster he had been going through lately. All of them were legitimate factors that could induce his physical reactions, but none of them ruled out the possibility of a life growing inside him.
Not wanting to dwell on it much, Zero changed the topic and distracted himself by helping Gin choose few things online for the refurbishing of his new house. The blue haired male was surprised by the sudden burst of energy and motivation, but he was not suspicious about the change of attitude.
∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞
After watching anther movie while snuggling together under a blanket, Zero asked Gin for more lemonade and went back to work. The blue haired man did as requested without nagging much about how exhausted the hunter was to get him to rest. He figured that he should not antagonize him much. He finished fixing the clutter around the place and used some clothes that belonged to Kaito apparently. Gin was grateful for that, as Zero's size would not fit at all.
He was not surprised this time when, stirring in the middle of his sleep, he found the silverette again sleeping by his side. He let out an exasperated chuckle as softly as possible while he sat on the bed and gently covered the kitten like hunter. He assumed that Zero just flopped on the bed without bothering to cover himself and curled up in a fetal position from the cold.
∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞
The next morning, Zero squeezed his eyes as the rays of sun tickled his skin. He squeezed his arms around the warmth that enveloped him snuggling up to it in effort to get more sleep. It was at that moment when a scent he was not expecting hit his nose that his eyes popped open. An awkward moment stretched when he found himself flush against the broad chest of Gin while the bulky male had his arms around his slender form, while their legs tangled with each other.
As he shifted and got off the bed, Zero sighed in relief after digging in his sleepy head for any memories of anything happening between them last night. Great! Now I have to add sleepwalking to my list of odd actions.
In fact, Zero had laid on the couch the night before after finishing work, the last thing he remembered was dozing off there. He looked at his reflection in the bathroom mirror for a moment before sighing again. He hated to admit it, but he did manage to catch some sleep unlike the insomnia that plagued him after Ichiru left. He had to be grateful for that, seeing that the dark circles under his eyes were almost gone. It will cause less fuss if I go there looking less like a zombie.
Opening the cabinet, his eyes landed on the contraption that brought an unwanted memory and fears in the blink of an eye. Biting the inside of his cheek, Zero stared at the pregnancy test among his other medications. There is just no way in hell… He grabbed his hormone regulating drops along with other pills that he had to take at that time and closed the door.
He left the bedroom in a hurry as if someone was chasing him, grabbed a water bottle from the fridge and downed the medications as per his routine. He set his coffee maker after putting the ingredients and stared at the blinking light of the machine dazedly. Barely a minute later, Zero found himself in the bathroom again, holding the door of the cabinet open, and staring at the packed stick.
Letting out a frustrated whine, he picked one and opened the box. The shifting from the bedroom startled him. He peeked from the door to see that Gin was still sleeping. Not wanting to risk anything, he took the packet and went back to the kitchen after picking his phone as well.
He prickled his finger and let a drop trickle down the padded surface that absorbed it right away. He set the timer of his phone and placed the stick on the table while he checked some info on his handheld device. Unfortunately for the hunter, lazy footsteps made him panic and throw the test in the bin to avoid any inquiries from the sleepy man making his way in the kitchen.
He took a deep breath and composed himself in time. Gin appeared, scratching his stomach under the shirt and covering a big yawn with one hand.
"Mornin'" He waved before running a hand through his messy hair.
"Good morning. That is quite the spectacular bed head"
Gin chuckled while trying his best to tame the stray locks.
"I assume you do not have a shaver around here." He added, scratching the barely grown stubble of his cheek.
"So sorry for not growing facial hair!" Zero bit sarcastically, "But I think Kaito left one in the guest room."
"You have a guest room?" Gin exclaimed as if he was told that the earth was flat.
Zero winced, "Kind of, it is probably covered by an inch thick layer of dust. I have not used it in so long, since Ichiru got his own place I think. Kaito used it once or twice when he came over after a mission, which is quite a while ago."
"You used to live together with Ichiru?" Gin was surprised.
"Not really… It was a temporary arrangement. He was about to rent a rundown place because he invested all the money in setting up the bar. I was against it because it looked like it would collapse any moment. Thank god I did, because it did collapse barely a week after he moved in with me." Zero explained as he sipped on his coffee.
"I see… Quite the caring big brother he has." Gin teased. Zero's movements halted for a moment at the remark before placing the mug on the table. He stood and left the kitchen while speaking, "I am going to take a shower first and get ready while you finish your coffee. We will eat something on the way if you feel hungry later."
"Roger." Gin chirped as he sat on the table enjoying the caffeine awakening his system.
*beep*
*beep*
*beep*
Grey eyes landed on Zero's phone. The sound of the alarm and vibration went on for a while before he grabbed it and turned it off. He figured that Zero was already in the shower, thus took the liberty to shut the annoying sound. He placed back on the table, but soon took it again in a shocked manner.
He knew how rude it was to look into other's phones but what caught his eyes was just alarming. Gin stumbled upon the page that Zero was checking out earlier before he came in the kitchen, the title of the search said, "How accurate is a home pregnancy test?"
Scrolling down, Gin found that the article was explaining various reasons on how results can be faulty and that it was always better to get a blood test at a hospital to be in the clear. The teacher felt his mouth dry up as he swallowed with difficulty. Putting the phone in its initial place, he clapped his hands together against his mouth in an observing posture.
He was not aware for how long he had been musing until a freshly showered and clothed Zero snapped out of his daze, "You have one hell of a serious look on your face."
Gin did not waste time to turn to his goofy self, "Just wondering what color the car should be."
Zero rolled his eyes, believing him after having to go through the tile's patterns for almost an hour before the taller man decided on one.
"Just make sure not to grow white hair while pondering about it. You better get ready if you want us to be there on time for the blasted dinner." He nipped.
Once Gin left for the bedroom again, Zero picked his phone and checked the article he was reading earlier. A long sigh escaped his lips as he looked through his contact list.
"Hello! Kirihara clinic here, how may I help you?" The cheerful female voice resonated through the phone.
"Hi! I visited you around ten days ago for blood sampling and scans, I was told that you would call me back for the results, so I was wondering when I can pick them up."
"May I know if you used the regular or express service?" She asked.
"Regular, I think."
"Can I have your name Sir, please!"
"Riku… Mamiya Riku" Zero whispered a little lower.
"Ah! Yes, Mamiya Riku-san… Your results are indeed ready and you can collect them anytime today. Will you be seeking the assistance of an external doctor or should we reserve an appointment with one of our doctors."
Zero's thoughts travelled to a certain golden haired noble before getting back to his conversation, "I believe that you have a certain professor that visits you clinic to assist a peculiar kind of patients."
"Pardon?"
Zero cursed under his breath when he could not remember the person's name, "I believe that he had published research papers about hermaphrodites."
There was a long pause over the phone with some distant chattering and tapping on a keyboard before the woman talked again, "Excuse me for the wait, Mamiya-san. I did not mean to be rude but I had to ask around since I am a new employee in this establishment."
"No problem." Zero appreciated the politeness of the lady.
"I am afraid that the doctor you are seeking to consult will not be here until tomorrow late in the evening. Would that be inconvenient?" She inquired.
"No! no. That would be perfect actually." Zero affirmed. After a brief chattering, he managed to set up an appointment with the person who would most likely understand his special condition apart from Aido according to his medical profile. He initially looked him up because he was concerned by the chronic fatigue he was feeling, suspecting that it might have to do with his hormones going haywire. Now, however, he is dreading the visit in fear of another unexpected truth getting revealed instead.
Gin came back in time to see Zero leaning against the back of the couch with a hand stroking his lower belly absentmindedly. The suspicions of the grey-eyed male increased and he had hard time concealing his worries.
"Everything is okay?" He asked.
Zero startled and quickly brought the hand to the couch, squeezing it lightly to hide the nervousness in his voice, "Y…yeah… Should we go?"
The trip back to Cross city was drowned in silence as Zero fell asleep once again.
∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞ In the moon dorms ∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞
With the sun setting, the rays were not as harsh when Ichiru opened the curtains to stir his sleepy lover from the bed. Sitting at the edge, he ran his fingers through the soft golden locks, smiling at the childish way Aido snuggled up to his hand.
"Wake up! Sleepy head." He whispered as he watch the lazy electric blue eyes fluttering open.
Hanabusa stretched like a cat before suddenly pulling Ichiru under the sheets with him. Now, on all four, hovering over his lover, Aido did not waste time before claiming those lips for a gentle 'morning' kiss.
"Mornin'"
Ichiru chuckled at the lazy tone, "I could never get used to that, saying good morning when it's getting dark." He teased.
"Hmm… I guess I will have to adjust my clock then." Aido announced, surprising his lover. "Why do you look shocked?"
"No! It's just that… Won't that be tough on you… It will take me time, but I can adjust back since I used to live like that with Shi-" Ichiru was not able to finish his words as Hanabusa put a finger on his lips.
"You have already done enough, leave some compromise to me as well. I may not be able to go out with you in bright daylight, but I would be at least able to keep you company at home. We will have more time together that ways instead of watching each other sleep and only meet in the evenings. That seriously sucks."
Ichiru looked away for a moment as he mumbled, "True… It feels like we are seeing each other less than any other time."
"What did you do today?" Aido changed the topic, avoiding the unavoidable.
"Shopping for dinner with Yuki-chan. I just left her putting the grocery away with Cross and Kaito to come wake you up. You're coming, right?" Ichiru gave his lover a worried look that made his heart ache.
"Of course I am." Aido chirped, flopping beside the silverette. He rubbed the hand that he brought to his lips for another kiss before squeezing it to get Ichiru's attention. "I cancelled the party by the way."
Shocked amethyst eyes flew in direction of his, "What?"
"I told my father to postpone it until an indefinite date." He stated.
"Why?" Ichiru felt as if his heart was about to jump out of his chest in fear of things ending with the blond vampire.
"You want another ceremony where he is not present?"
The question took the silver haired human by surprise. Propping himself on his elbow, he gave his lover a scrutinizing look, "The date will not make a difference now, because he is not coming no matter what."
"I do not think that is quite true."
"What do you mean? Hana… I told you… He does not want anything to do with me anymore… Isn't that what you wanted in the first place?" Irritation and sadness were obvious in his voice.
Hanabusa looked away from the accusing eyes of his lover, "I take it back."
"What?" Ichiru did not hear the mumble.
"I said that I am taking it back. I should have never made you choose between us in the first place." He explained as he pulled him in a hug.
The stunned Ichiru could not believe what he was hearing but it did not help his irritation, "What difference does it make now?"
"Plenty."
"…"
"Love… He did not reject you… He pushed you away because he cares about you… Just like I am taking back my words because I care about you." Hanabusa whispered. It did not take much to figure out the reason for the sudden change of attitude that Zero displayed towards Ichiru. After the nasty word he threw his way, the golden vampire felt worse when Ichiru told him about what happened. If it was any other siblings, Zero would have clung to his twin without care of the consequences it may lead to. He would not take such drastic measures to send his brother back to his lover's arms. However, it was the twins that he came to care about greatly that we are talking about. When he overheard the conversation of Ichiru and Gin about the dinner, memories of the times they celebrated the new year in US, just the three of them rushed back. It was during that time that he got fascinated by the amazing bond between the brothers, he grew fond of seeing them together, their interaction, their bickering. A need to cherish and protect that bond grew inside him along with deeper respect towards the hunter who never failed to display his overprotectiveness towards his twin without a hint of grudge or resentment for what he caused him in the past.
Even if he could not bring himself to accept Zero totally, neither forgive his reckless actions, it does not mean that his lover had to pay the price for their dispute. It was hard to see how dejected and down Ichiru had been since he took him back. It was truly a crime to attempt separating them in any way.
"What do you mean?" Ichiru cut off his train of thoughts.
Aido chuckled, "What would you have done if you were in his place and his lover made him choose between the both of you?"
Ichiru's eyes did not take long to widen the size of a saucer before filling up with tear as his hand flew to his trembling lips, "Oh God! I… He… How could I have not noticed earlier… Nii-san… he…"
"Hai… Hai… Hai… It is quite amusing how I manage to figure him out faster than you do, I have to say… Anyways, stop those tears," He begged as he rubbed a wet cheek, "Because as cute as you look when they are falling, I really do not wish to have my ass handed back to me on such a joyful day."
"Huh?" Ichiru did not understand the words neither the smile on his lover's face.
"His car just stopped."
The younger twin instantly jumped and ran to the window, squinting in direction of Cross's house. True enough, he could catch a glimpse of the black Jeep through the trees. He looked back at the vampire who joined him, "His aura has always been palpable when He is having his guard up."
Long lost excitement coursed through Ichiru at the thought of his brother actually coming despite their differences. He looked hesitantly at his lover who was leaning against the window, "Hana… Are you sure?"
Hanabusa could not help but laugh at the way Ichiru was trying to hide the giddiness that shone through his eyes, pulling him in his arms for another kiss, he whispered against the soft lips, "I love seeing how happy you are when you are with him… Now go… I will be there shortly."
After one last kiss, Ichiru sprinted out of the room in a mad dash. He would not waste a single moment more to go the check on his brother. He knew that it wouldn't be as easy as his lover thought it would be to patch things up. However, he was grateful for not having to be careful when around his brother because his lover may not like it, nope, he does not have to choose.
∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞ In cross's house ∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞
Just like every year during the time he was living in this place, Zero found himself in the kitchen, cooking some edible food to go with Cross's poison. Luckily, he procured himself a reliable assistant, unlike his clumsy adoptive sister whose only use was her palate. While Zero tackled the turkey that he convinced Cross to leave in his care, the ex-hunter fawned and gawked at the skill of his new recruit in making the dessert. Zero and Yuki could not help but tease the slightly blushing teacher who did not know how to handle the overly active Chairman who was supposed to be his boss.
Gin finally placed the pie in the oven and scooted over to Zero's side while Cross busied himself with Ai as she stirred awake in her crib.
"Is he always this… energetic?" The bewildered look in grey eyes almost made Zero rip the turkey he was stuffing.
"Coming from you, you make him sound like an alien. But, yeah! He gets extra hyperactive this time of the year for some reason. He always looks forward to the beginning of a new year. Hard to believe that he kept that upbeat stance for two centuries and still going strong." Zero rolled his eyes in annoyance.
Zero observed the intrigued way that Gin was looking at the ex-hunter with, as if discovering a new specimen, but the look soon turned to amusement when the older man picked the baby and cooed at her like the loving grandfather he was.
"So, there exists a person that you have hard time dealing with. It might be because you have a lot in common." Zero teased.
"As in?" Gin inquired, still amused by the sight.
"Your silly goofiness, too dramatic reaction… nosiness…. and the way you care too much about others…" Zero mumbled the last part as he stuffed the last bit of filling, his hand halted inside when his carbon copy skidded inside the kitchen and whipped his head around until their eyes met.
A moment of silence stretched as identical amethyst looked into each other before Zero averted his gaze and went back to his chore. He started regretting coming here after seeing the hopeful and overjoyed look on his brother. It is going to be hard acting indifferent around him…. Damnit!
"Ichiru! Didn't you go to get Aido-sempai?" Yuki chirped as she wiped the silverware.
"Um…" Ichiru nodded, slightly put out by the reaction of his brother that did not go unnoticed by the others, "He said he will be here shortly."
He proceeded to help Yuki while glancing at his brother from the corner of his eyes. He could not help but worry upon noticing that Zero had lost some weight. It was not noticeable, but no small detail would escape his eyes when it came to his brother.
Ichiru spent the whole dinner trying to think of a way to approach his brother without setting him off, while Zero was trying his best to dodge his approach as not to cause any trouble between the two lovebirds.
Getting irritated with the cats and dogs game, Cross Kaien finally stepped in and sent the both of them to wash the dishes, together. The order earned him many thumbs up and winks as soon as the twin had their back facing the crowd.
"Seriously, those two get extremely awkward when they fight that it ends up frustrating everyone around them." The old hunter huffed as he sat next to his daughter.
"They always needed that little push, I appreciate the help." Aido added, nodding at the old hunter. It was a good idea to tell him that they are having a little spat.
∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞
Back in the kitchen, the two brothers stood by the sink, passing the dishes to each other in an automatic manner without uttering a word. Occasionally glancing at one another without being noticed. They were well aware of the two peeping tom crouching by the door and felt like throwing a glass or a plate at Yuki and Cross for them to quit acting like stalkers.
The father and daughter pair finally gave up and returned to the living room, sulking.
"How's work?" Ichiru was the first to break the silence while wiping a plate that he rinsed, still looking out of the window.
Zero glanced his way for a brief moment, noticing the fidgety stance of his brother before sighing as he turned on the tap once again, "A little hectic as usual, you know with holidays and less people working etc…"
"I hope Allen did not freak out when you left today. It is usually the busiest time for you two since you have the motto of letting your staff go in paid vacation during this time."
Zero shrugged as he passed a glass, "He won't because he gave himself a paid leave as well."
That successfully halted Ichiru's motions, "How come?"
Their eyes finally met, "Tiera and the little one are in the hospital, again."
Ichiru's mouth opened in an 'o' and confusion was written all over his face, "Their daughter as well? Why?"
Zero sighed as he remembered the distraught look of his business partner when they talked about it, "They are still not sure. The little one is okay but they are worried about her health in the future. Allen agreed to the tests and diagnosis that the doctors requested urgently because they are suspecting that she might have the same weakened system as her mother."
Ichiru's shoulder slumped at the thought of the little princess being sick and bedridden. In the time they lived abroad, he came to care so much about the little family that he considered them one of his own.
"I am thinking of visiting them sometime soon, as soon as I settled the urgent projects and get some time off." Zero announced as he dried his hands and leaned against the counter, "How's work with you?" He finally asked the question that had been nagging at him. The hunter could not deny that he felt irritated at the possibility of Ichiru giving up his job and venture because of his recklessness.
His younger twin gave him a tight smile, "Ryou-san is holding down the fort for now. He is used to not having me around at this time of the year, I guess. His wife is having great time assisting him, although he could not stop grumbling about the customers hitting on her."
Both of them laughed at the thought of the jealous bartender having to deal with a wife playing the waitress with him. "You should really think about hiring more staff if you are planning on staying here…"
There was a long silence before Zero interrupted Ichiru as he was about to say something, "I better wrap things up fast because I am going back to work as soon as dessert is served."
"Nii-san… You don't have to-" you don't have to be so distant for my sake! Ichiru thought of saying, but decided against it because his twin will automatically go in denial as per usual.
"Hmm?" Zero hummed as he checked the time on his phone.
Ichiru shook his head and started going towards the door, "It is too bad that you have work." he gave a wistful smile, "By the way… Hana said something funny today."
Zero stiffened at the mention of the golden haired vampire he had been avoiding any sort of contact with today.
Glancing over his shoulder, "He said I look the happiest when I am around you, that he loved seeing me that way…"
Ichiru turned back and was about to join the others when he felt a hand grip his. He felt tears forming in his eyes, out of happiness this time. They stood there for a moment, not looking at each other, before Zero squeezed the slender wrist lightly, unable to utter a word.
"You are an idiot, Nii-san!" Ichiru huffed in a strained voice as he wiped the tears before turning to face the pained expression on Zero's face. He cupped it with his free hand before pulling him slightly for a head-butt, "Pushing me away for my own sake will never bring me happiness, it will only hurt the both of us, badly."
Ichiru gasped as he felt the air whoosh out of his lungs from the bone-crushing hug Zero pulled him in. He could not see his brother's face, but he could feel what he was trying to convey from the crazily beating heart thumping against him and the slight tremble of his slightly bigger body.
"You are really silly." Ichiru whispered over his shoulder as he hugged him back, "Just so you know, I might have stuck by your side out of guilt in the beginning but it is not the case anymore. I care about you because you are precious to me; you are the only family left for me no matter how many loving people surrounded us. Because… You know it, right? Nii-san… Even if the whole world goes against you, I will be there for you no matter what and I know that you would do the same for me as well… I might be harsh, unforgiving at times and extremely pushy, I am aware of that… But it does not mean that you are bothering me, no… No matter how messed up you end up being, you are my one and only brother that no one could ever replace. Do not forget that, okay! I will be always there for you whenever you need me. Don't you ever push me away like that ever again… Okay? Zero!" Ichiru's voice turned whiny like a child, reminding Zero of how they were as children when their role were the exact opposite of the present. When Ichiru was insecure about being a burden to Zero and how he would talk all night about how the importance of Ichiru in his life.
It was only when Zero saw feet approaching the kitchen that his amethysts eyes travelled upwards to meet tender grey ones of Gin who was about to make a U-turn as not to interrupt the moment. Zero however halted him by announcing loudly, "Should we serve the dessert then?" as he let go of his twin while ruffling his hair.
Ichiru could see the glistening in his brother's eyes but more than that, his smile widened when he caught a glimpse of Zero's smile as well.
Being separated for two days felt like months for the twins to the point that they retired to the patio for a bit of catching up.
"Can you believe that guy? I am afraid that he offended his father for such reason." Ichiru grumbled.
Zero sighed as he rocked back and forth to get the grumpy Ai to sleep. "I am sure that he managed to avoid such a thing. He can be quite the smooth operator when he feels like it."
Ichiru pouted, "I think I am starting to get jealous."
"Hah? What for?"
"You two seem to understand each other more than I do and it kind of pisses me off."
Zero snorted as he looked at the baby in his arms. "What is the deal with her father?"
"Who knows?" Ichiru snorted back as he stretched, "You heard Ichijou earlier, right? He is busy with legal matters regarding the branch of his 'empire' over there. I would say good riddance that he is out of sight. I hope he stays there forever if you want my honest opinion." Ichiru grumbled with a voice full of hatred and venom.
Zero made a sign for him to stop his ranting when he felt a pureblood aura approaching. Yuki came to join them for the rest of the night followed by the others.
Finally, with the help of Cross, they put Ai and Hina-chan to bed and tidied things before they bid each other farewell. Yuki, Cross and Kaito were upset to know that Zero was not staying over. Gin, on the other hand, offered to drive him back since he did not drink much and was worried about the hunter. The article he read that morning still haunting his thoughts. Zero was more than grateful for the company and headed to his car first, with Ichiru on his toes.
"Nii-san… If you need any help with work do not hesitate to call me. You look like you lost some weight, make sure to eat and rest…" Falling into his old habit, Ichiru clammed up when Zero looked at him with the, 'You are doing it again' look.
The hunter chuckled at the cute reaction and pulled his brother in an awkward side hug. "I understand Mum. I will eat, drink and brush my teeth before bed. Just don't start calling me every five minutes or I will switch off my phone" Zero warned jokingly.
With a tongue out, "I would not dare to interrupt the quality time you are having with a certain someone." Ichiru teased.
"Ichiru!" Zero growled.
"What? I did not say anything… It just looks like you are getting along better. I am not insinuating anything else. I won't try to hook you up with any guy anymore, I made that promise to myself already. I am just happy when you make new friends, that is all." Ichiru explained stubbornly with arms crossed over his chest.
"Hmm… Yeah… I have to agree with that… He is a good friend… Good boyfriend material as well." Zero teased, glancing sideway at his flabbergasted twin.
"Nii-san… Would you stop with that sarcasm of yours?"
"Oh! And here I was trying to be serious for once."
"You were serious?" Ichiru was confused.
"No… I was just kidding…Ow! Ow! Ouch! It was a joke, I swear" Zero screamed and laughed at the same time as Ichiru pulled and pinched his ear in a painful twist.
*Thump* *Thump* *Thump*
Zero's body suddenly thrummed violently, his vision focused on the wrist in front of his eyes and the thin pulsing vein visible for his supernatural vision. In a sudden motion, he caged the limb in an iron-like grip as his fangs elongated. Only the hissing like breath reverberated in his head, not the yelp and gasp as Ichiru panicked and tried to pull his arms when seeing the glowing red eyes of his brother.
*Splash*
Zero had to blink a couple of time to realize what happened. He was standing with both hands held midair as if he was holding something; Gin's hand was pushing against his forehead while the taller man had Ichiru's upper arm in his other hand, keeping the younger twin behind him in a protective manner. The grey-eyed teacher sighed in relief when the amethyst color came forth. He let go of both of them and allowed himself to catch a breath from the mad dash he did.
He was getting some water from the kitchen when he coincidently saw the twins being chummy together, the sight pleased him and he found himself staring at them until he noticed the flickering of Zero's eyes. With a water bottle in hand, he found himself opening the window, jumping and running as fast as he could with eyes glued on the fangs that were about to pierce the thin wrist. His body moved on its own as he threw the bottle square on Zero's face and reached on time to pull the younger twin in the moment of confusion.
Finally realizing what happened, Zero was in a state of utter shock as he covered his face, thinking that his eyes were still looking like that of the beast he had been suppressing for so long. Catching on fast, Ichiru pushed Gin away and clapped both hands on Zero's cheek, jolting him awake, "Nii-san! It is okay… You did not hurt me… It is okay!"
"But-"
"No buts! I am sure it happened because you are tired and probably forgot to take enough blood pills, right? Don't think too much about it and go rest, Okay?" A genuine smile on Ichiru's face without a hint of fear or distrust managed to calm the panic rising inside Zero. He nodded slightly as he got in the car after handing the keys to Gin.
Ichiru grabbed the arm of the older man, "Sorry again, and thank you for saving the day."
Gin could feel the trembling of the hand clutching his arm but did not emphasize on it. He shrugged, "You could say that my body moved without thinking, glad I was of some help. I will keep an eye on him tonight and come back tomorrow if he is doing better. Don't beat yourself about it as well."
Ichiru nodded and watched as the car drove away, "Nii-san…" He whispered… "Was that out of thirst or…" His eyes widened for a moment, "bloodlust? It can't be right?"
The moment I smelled the scent of your blood, I felt like lava was running through my veins and a voice ringing in my head saying that I had to have it. Later when I tasted it, nothing could ever quench my thirst unless I drank from you. It got so bad that I was scared of attacking others when the pills would not satisfy me anymore. I almost bit Yuki-chan at one time. Good thing that she sent me flying across the wall.
Aido's words resonated in his head while he made his way back to the house. You are not craving Kuran's blood, are you? Nii-san.
On the way back, Zero did not utter a word as he stared at the dark scenery. Both of them were exhausted by the time they reached the apartment, Gin immediately changed in the clothes he brought with him and made himself comfortable, while Zero checked his emails before joining him in a comfortable silence. The only difference is that the hunter kept a distance away from the human in fear of losing control once again even after drinking a handful of fake blood.
∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞
The next morning, Zero left Gin sleeping and drove to the clinic after receiving an early call saying that an appointment was canceled with the doctor he was seeking, which allowed a slot for Zero to consult him much earlier than expected. The silver haired hunter stopped by a gas station and changed in his disguise before entering the building with the heaviest feet ever.
His nervousness soared when the doctor appeared to be of a noble class vampire. He figured out that it would be the case seeing that the establishment catered to vampires, but the tense look of the doctor told him that the old vampire was not comfortable around hunters. Zero tried to act as friendly as possible as not to set his alarms off. The last thing he needed was to get arrested for being suspicious, that would be the embarrassment of his life.
"Um… Sir? Is there anything I should worry about?" He made his voice sound as meek but polite as possible.
The doctor finally relaxed in his presence. Going through the tests and scans. He asked Zero to lie down on the medical table and uncover his abdomen. Zero felt his heart drop at the insinuation but did as told, internally praying that the doctor finds that his theory was wrong.
He hissed at the cold gel spreading across his lower belly as the ultrasound handle glided on his skin. The old man reached his hand and pushed a button that signaled Zero's doom.
*Badump*
*Badump*
*Badump*
A muffled sound of heartbeat left the hunter frozen in his spot, his mouth going dry.
"Mamiya-san, you are currently seven to eight weeks pregnant. Congratulation!" The doctor announced cheerfully as he wiped the gel of him and covering his stomach for Zero to stand up.
Because of how breathtakingly beautiful you were when the child was conceived, I guess.
Zero was grateful for using the alias of the undercover missions. He was grateful for the hair dye and disguise. He was grateful because the words simply swiped the floor under his feet and he felt like he was on a freefall. The doctor announced that he was indeed pregnant like he feared, and that the child was most probably Kaname's.
"That can't be true?" Zero whispered.
The doctor retracted his hand that was extending a picture of the ultrasound when he faced the horrified expression of the hunter. He sighed, understanding that the news were not as welcome as he assumed.
"Mamiya-san… Your blood test came positive, but I wanted to be certain with the ultrasound. I believe that you heard the tiny heartbeat no matter how weak it might have been."
Zero shook his head violently, "Something is not right in this story… I did a pregnancy test around that time that came back negative… Two of them actually. I can't be pregnant… It is impossible." Zero's panic soared as he paced the room.
"Mamiya-san… I do understand your distress. However, you have to be aware that your unique condition allows for a pregnancy to occur even if your partner is not an upper class vampire or not a vampire at all for that matter."
Zero rolled his eyes at the assumption of the doctor, "You think I don't know about that crap… Okay! Let's assume that I am indeed carrying, the timeframe is messed up. As I said, I took a test around that time and it came back negative." Zero insisted, Just tell me it is not Kaname's!
Rubbing his temple, the doctor asked him to sit down, "Mamiya-san! I am sorry but the diagnosis is as accurate as it can get. Look," He showed him the picture pointing to a certain spot inside his womb, "The development of the fetus clearly indicates that you are at least seven weeks along. Besides, if you are saying that you had home pregnancy test barely a week after conceiving, it is quite normal for it to come back negative. The tests would fail to detect the pregnancy hormone at such an early stage."
Lacing his hands against his mouth, Zero rocked back and forth on the chair before fixing the doctor with a steady look, "If what you are saying is true, then it is still not too late for an abortion." A chill ran down his spine at his own words.
The doctor paused for a moment before placing the picture on the desk and tap on it with his fountainpen, "Mamiya-san, seeing that you are an ex-human, and I am by no mean looking down on the rank or anything. I assume that you do not know the laws of the vampire society when it comes to this matter."
Zero gave him a confused look.
"Abortion is forbidden by the vampire law." The doctor announced flatly.
"What?!"
"It is not allowed because of the already scarce population of vampires existing in the country."
"What the fuck?"
"Sir, please calm down."
"Calm down? You are telling me to calm down after telling me that I am not allowed to get rid of what is growing inside me because that would reduce the number of bloodsuckers by one?" Zero was livid.
"I understand that it goes against your hunter's moral, but what is not allowed is not allowed. That is a fact that will not change."
"How much do you need to do it? I will pay whatever you ask for." Zero insinuated the bribe that was very common in any society, hoping that it works.
"The punishment is not worth any fortunes sir." The doctor denied, still keeping his cool.
"Punishment! Can you please stop the bullshit, it is not the first time I am having an abortion, and it sure as hell did not lead to any fucking 'punishment'"
The doctor's face hardened at the news, "May I know where and when did you have it, Sir?"
Zero regretted blurting it out the moment he saw the look, "Few years back, in U.S"
The doctor sighed in relief, "Thank goodness! I would have had to put you on probation if it was done in Japan. The law does not apply there."
"So, I can ask for it over there?" Zero caught on the loophole. He was desperate to find a solution since his brother in law most likely will not want to have anything to do with him anymore. They can't know about this, hell no!
"Unfortunately, that will not be possible now. The law had been implemented worldwide starting few months ago. The king is adamant in pursuing the footsteps of his grandfather when it comes to this issue, just like his mother."
"The king?" Zero gritted his teeth; This is what he meant when he said that he would take the measures needed to prevent the abortion.
"Yes. His grandfather implemented the capital punishment for anyone helping such practice, from the vampire carrying the aborted child, the one helping him, the one providing the drug if any was used, and the one manufacturing such a drug. Only a handful of scientists are aware of the formula for such medication, they are not allowed to practice unless they get an approval from the royalties. An abortion is only possible if the life of the mother is in fatal danger."
Zero was speechless. All his thoughts traveled to the golden-haired vampire who was risking his own neck by helping him without the hunter knowing about it. He was still unable to formulate any coherent thoughts before the doctor spoke again.
"After realizing the mistreatment and side effect of such a law on the unwanted children, Juri-sama, the late queen built an institute for the purpose of sheltering and raising such innocent souls. The establishment in still operating. So, Mamiya-san, if you really are not keen on raising this child for whatever reasons you might have, can you at least carry it to term and place it in the capable hands of that institute. I am ready to assist you along the way and deal with the paperwork to finalize it in a way that you will have nothing to worry about afterwards."
Yeah right! Hand over the king's child to the institute that his own mother established. How ironic would that be?
"I will think about it." Zero gave the last statement before leaving the place without looking back. Even if the doctor tried to reach out to him, he will find no trace of Mamiya Riku.
∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞TBC∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞
So~
How will Zero deal with his problem now that all doors closed in his face.
The next chapter will also be about Zero dealing with the shattering news, I will later do a flashback chapter about what happened with Kaname after the ball, as well as the truth about his talk with Yuki.
The next chappie is on the way, will probably be posted tomorrow and it is an exciting one, unlike this one ;)
I hope you are looking forward to it.
I am on spring break now, so apart from working part-time, I have plenty of time to write… Yaaaaay to another writing spree.
By the way, I forgot to ask you guys whether you preferred longer chapter instead of the short ones I started with in the beginning of the story.
∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞ TBC ∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞8∞∞
BUCKETS OF LOVE AND KISSES FOR THE AWESOME REVIEWERS OF CHAPTER 38:
Alublad
IamHaein
hotxhotguy
Melloomelon
YaoiLoverPrincess
eikoamaya1
XtAG
Senja844
Guest-oing
eboneykg
kmbanas
miketsukami13
irmina
LOVE YOU ALL GUYS, AND A BIG THANK YOU FOR THOSE WHO TOOK THE TIME TO READ, THOSE WHO CLICKED THE FAVORITE BUTTON AS WELL AS THOSE WHO ARE FOLLOWING THE STORY.
YOU ARE THE BEST.