Author's Note: Hey everyone! I hope you all are staying safe during this pandemic. Lots have happened in my life that got in the way of my creative abilities, but now that things are calming down in my private life, I am able to update steadily again. Next update will be on Friday, May 1st. About that video, I didn't animated that myself, I used a program called Plotagon Studio. It's kind of a trend people on YouTube are doing where they make videos of their favorite characters with these awkward 3D people that talk kind of weird lmao. I'll upload the second video soon because it's just so funny on how bad it is.. it's so bad that it's good, you know?

Anyway, hope you all enjoy this and PLEASE STAY INSIDE. Read fanfics in the meanwhile so you won't catch the sickness, yanno? ;)

"Cross over and turn
Feel the spot don't let it burn
We all want we all yearn
Be soft don't be stern"

- Low

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".. Hnn.. Ha.. Hah.. Hmm..!"

I don't remember when this happened. It must've been maybe the second or third week of knowing Kenshin. I know that this definitely happened after he and I made up in that dark classroom; when he asked me after the sexual encounter, if I had missed him at all. "Don't do it again", he told me, and for the very first time.. I've grown to trust him. At least, maybe a little bit. I agreed with him and we made up afterwards. I could never stay away from him for long. I feel awful for rejecting his offer of love under the school's bleachers, and for being such a dick towards him. But I'm glad we made up now. Our sex life has never been better, really. It was never bad to begin with, but.. I think, after Kenshin had let me know that he really does love me, it's as if now he's putting everything into our sexual play times.

Everything is just way more intense.

We're in my bedroom now. It's dark out and it's the weekend. My dad is away on business. Kenshin lied to the people in his life about where he is. The usual round up. I'm lying on my back, head hanging on the end of my mattress, one leg draped over Kenshin's shoulder as he fucks me. He's moving his hips into mine with long, painfully slow, but equally delicious thrusts. I'm feeling dizzy, unsure exactly as to why that is. Maybe it's how I'm being positioned and the blood rushing into my head. Maybe it's how good his cock feels inside of me. Maybe it's knowing that Kenshin is in love with me, just as I with him. Maybe it's all of these combined. I keep groaning in intervals every time he shoves his dick into me, hanging onto his outer thigh for support meanwhile.

"Ugh.. uhn.. huh.. hmm.. ugh..!" I breathe out, trying to lift my head up to watch his face.

He smirks, not saying anything, proud of how defenseless I've become to his power and his sexual dominance. God, I love getting fucked by him. I love that he loves me. I love that he is mine, now. All mine. I should be his boyfriend, right? I should be confident of his feelings towards me. I shouldn't let old fears hold me back anymore. Kenshin will always be by my side no matter what, right?

He chuckles under his breathe at the sight of me looking helpless and aroused as he thrusts into me a little harder and faster now, making me lean my head back over the edge of the bed again.

"Huh.. huh, ugh, urkh!" I shut my eyes painfully, the pleasure shocking my system. But nothing I can't handle, of course. Just one of the cons of being fucked by a total bad boy, of course. And I really don't mind getting banged like this. His face and his body, and especially his eyes.. It's enough to make me shiver every time I see him during classes, and knowing I am not allowed to reach over and touch him whenever I want. His father would never approve of us. Neither will his friends. Especially not my father, either. I always have to restrain myself to not rub his thigh every time I see his cute smile and him laughing at his friends' jokes. I always have to repress my desire every time we are together in study hall, how hard I have to try and not let myself lean in to kiss his lips every time he is sitting close to me. It's all just so hard for me to take.

But when we're alone, like this, just the two of us..

It's the best feeling in the world.

"Are you cumming..?" Kenshin whispers in a hoarse voice, making my eyes roll back slightly in pleasure. His voice is always so sexy.

"Are you?" I whisper back, grabbing my own cock to start touching myself. He groans from the back of his throat at the sight of me masturbating in front of him. He quickens his thrusting, hitting the softest and most sensitive part of me repeatedly. Soon my breathing couldn't be heard, opting instead to just whine and gasp from the intensity. My grasp on his thigh tightens, prompting Kenshin to lean one hand over to rub a couple of wet fingers over my nipple. I cry out once, arching my back. Fuck!

"Kenshin.. harrgh.. Ken.. Shin.. I'm..!" I can barely talk from all the fucking, and so Kenshin takes my leg away from his shoulder and hauls me up so that I can sit on his lap comfortably, his cock never leaving my ass. He immediately thrusts upwards, making me throw my head back with a cry, "Ugh!"

"Haha.." Kenshin buries his face into my neck with a chuckle, "Ugh, Soujiro, you're so tight. It's amazing. You're amazing. The best lover I've ever had.."

I blush at that. Does he really mean that?

Am I really.. His best lover he's ever had?

"Kenshin.." I start in carefully, gritting my teeth from him fucking me hard like this, "Am I.. I mean.. Am I really.. that good?"

"Yes you are.." Kenshin mumbles into my hair now, rubbing his face into it, inhaling my scent.

"I meant," I lean my head away from his reach now, so that I can look at his face properly, "I mean.. When you told me that you loved me.. Did you.. really meant it?"

He abruptly stops thrusting, his expression now of perplexity. Or perhaps, offense?

"What did you say?" He challenges me now with a low voice.

I grunt, staring at him. Did I say something wrong? He looks at me sternly, and I don't move. Is he going to yell at me now? He's quite the temperamental, moody soul. I wonder if he was always like this; always so angry and full of emotions. But then again, I don't think life has treated him very kindly at all. I don't think it treated him the way he deserves. With love and with happy memories. I wonder if he misses his mother at all. Just like I do with mines, sometimes. I wonder what his mother was like, and how she shaped him to be the man that he is today.

I wonder if he really can love a boy like me.

Suddenly, his face softens, his eyes appearing a shade sadder than before. Does he feel sorry for me?

"Of course I love you," Kenshin leans in to kiss me on the lips, pulling away just a hair to finish the sentence, "And I did. I did meant it."

Kenshin..

...

How can I ever learn to trust you completely?

Kenshin.

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"Soujiro.."

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"Ungh.. yes.. Kenshin.."

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"Do you like that, Soujiro..?"

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"Soujiro!"

My eyes flutter open with a jolt, and I'm in homeroom. It's early in the morning, and I haven't slept much. I feel my cheeks flaring as I see Mrs Kita staring at me with a puzzled look. Am I seriously thinking about having sex with Kenshin in the middle of homeroom now? I can feel everyone else turning around in their desks to also look at me, wondering what the hell is up with one of the brightest students in the school. Soujiro is always the most alert ones here, they probably think. He'd never doze off or miss anything important when a teacher talks! I sink into my chair, mortified. And although roll calls for attendance isn't that dire, it's important enough for the system to record that you've been at school for today. I can't afford to have failing grades, after all. This is my final year in high school, and I.. I have plans, don't I? I want to go to university and do something important with my life. Right? That's why I'm here.

On the day after I spoke with my old friends Sano, Yahiko, and the girls, I visited the private hospital to see Kenshin. The nurse told me that he's knocked out on some hardcore drugs and sedatives, so he wasn't able to talk to me. I didn't mind and just sat next to him, reading and doing a bit of homework to pass the time. I told my dad that I am held back in the library to catch up on some studying, and he didn't replied, only leaving me on read. Asshole. I don't care, though. Being next to Kenshin, despite him being a total vegetable, is enough to keep me happy and calm.

But I have a feeling that today, is going to be a hard one.

"I'm.." I gulp, flushing, "I'm here."

I can hear the class starting to whisper to one another, but it was interrupted quickly when Mrs Kita raps her desk with her ruler, prompting everyone to shut up.

"Enough! I have everyone here recorded except for Miss Miroshi and Mr Himura. Mr Seta, would it be alright if I can speak to you after homeroom ends? I'll make sure to let your next class teacher that you'll be a little late."

The classroom now starts to coo in union, which made her more irritated and rapping her desk louder than before.

"I said, ENOUGH!"

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"Soujiro," Mrs Kita closes the homeroom door as soon as the last student exits, "Have a seat."

I do as I am told and take one of the front row desks closest to hers, and she follows to sit in her desk, clasping her hands together to study my face carefully. My day isn't starting so well, and I can tell it's going to get worse from here. I'm so worried about a lot of things. I worry what the police are going to decide to do with this case. I worry if my father might catch wind of this. I worry that it could spell trouble for my relationship with Kenshin. I worry that one of Shishio's supporters will corner me today or even beat the shit out of me. I worry I won't be able to get Shishio's victims to speak on their own behalf of what he and his friends have done against them. I worry about the future, and how to make Kenshin fit into my plans. How am I ever going to get out this alive?

"I was made aware recently," Mrs Kita shifts in her seat, her eyebrows shooting up, "That your good friend Kenshin, got into a fight with a Mr Makoto Shishio."

I look at my own clasped hands, not saying anything. I don't want to have to say the wrong thing now.

She sighs, "Soujiro. I know that you and Kenshin are close—"

"—I'm sorry, Mrs Kita," I pull my head up to smile at her, "I really don't know anything about the fight. I honestly don't. There's nothing I can tell you that would help you understand such an ugly thing."

She gapes at me, and then blinks a few times, "Well.. The police brought up your name with me."

My smile tightens and so did my hands over each other, ".. I see."

She looks at the window next to us as she speaks, "I became very worried about you from that point on. I understand that you and Kenshin have become such good friends. And I am happy that he is close to you. His grades have shown a remarkable improvement since he has gotten to know you. He was a regular for our in-school suspension, and for our detentions as well. But right as you showed up in this school and introduced yourself to him.. he has not had one disciplinary action against him from me, or from any of his other teachers. He hasn't talked back to any of them, or broken any rules, thanks to you. So yes, Soujiro. You do have things that can help me understand this ugly event."

I start to feel defensive and scoff, "Did you ever cared about him before I met him, though? Because as far as I'm concerned, it seemed that everyone in this school have pretty much gave up on him and his potential just because he's a poor boy with an ex-cop for a stepfather!"

I looked at her expression, looking taken a back from my attitude. I sink into myself and mumble, "I'm.. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to say that.."

We sat in silence for a while, collecting ourselves. I hope I don't get in trouble for that. But is it really my fault? I mean, it really does seem like none of the teachers here gave a fuck about Kenshin when he was just a troubled student. As long as you're from a poor background, nobody really wants to help you. I used to think that people of other economical places just didn't tried hard enough. I blame my father for such a mindset. But ever since knowing Kenshin, and hearing him talk about the unfair treatment that people like him receive, I've become somewhat of a social justice warrior myself. Now I'm beginning to not trust the plutocratic class, despite being a part of it. Now I'm starting to understand where he is coming from. No wonder he didn't trusted me back then. I would've done the same if I were in his shoes.

"Soujiro.. I know that maybe I am not the first person that comes to mind when you are in need of help with something like this. No doubt Kenshin wouldn't trust me with his own life either, due to our constant bickering back and forth over the years. But.. Believe me when I say, I really do care about him as a teacher. I felt so happy when he became better at his courses. And you might not have noticed, but I have seen you two in the study hall together, and you have no idea how relieved I am to see him like this. You are clearly doing wonderful things to that young man and have been nothing but beneficial to him. I don't want him to revert back to bad habits. His past shouldn't define him. Nobody's pasts should."

I looked at her, "Our pasts shouldn't define us? But that's impossible. We are our pasts, aren't we?"

She chuckles, "Well, if that were the case, then I wouldn't be a teacher. I'd still be a waitress, waiting on tables and still living with a husband who used to abuse me and my son. My son is just a little older than you boys, but he used to be quite the troublemaker. He was always getting in trouble in school, and so he'd get in trouble at home with me, too. So having Kenshin as my student was always such an emotionally exhaustive experience for me. Not because I see him as a worthless hoodlum. Not because I don't care what happens to him after graduation. It's none of those things at all. It's because when I look at him, I see my son. My son.. Who is now in prison.."

She falls quiet, a certain glumness shrouding her entire self. Oh my God. I didn't know about this. Well, I've never really been this emotionally open with any of my teachers before. I was molested by one teacher before, yes, but that's not the same as this. This isn't coerced or disgusting. It's vulnerable and it feels safe. I can't believe Mrs Kita used to be a waitress, not having much money for herself, and struggling to get by with living such an unfortunate life. I think I understand now.

"Mrs Kita.." I want to lean over and touch her hand, but the space between us is too great, so I just hold onto my elbows with my hands instead, "I'm sorry. I didn't know."

"It's quite alright," She blinks away her tears, smiling somberly at me now, "I think I needed to confess something like that to you, Soujiro, so that you can maybe see where I was coming from. I see great potential in Himura. Really, I do. You saw it too. That's why you helped him. That's why I want to help him now. I never once liked Shishio, and I can't tell you how many times I've pleaded with the board to expel him from the school grounds. Especially with the rumors I've been hearing about how absolutely terrible he has been to other students, and his criminal records shows that he will never be rehabilitated. He is not like Kenshin.. I know that boy by now. I think Kenshin did what he had to do. I don't want the police to get a hold of him. So Soujiro.. You're going to have to help me so that I can help you."

"Isn't that against protocols?" I blink.

"We may discuss this with Mr Saito today after classes are done, if you are fine with that. The police have spoken with him already and are actually planning to come back here later on for follow up questioning, so you may be a part of the investigation if you are comfortable with that. You are eighteen years old. I shouldn't have to call your father or let him know what's going on. At this point, you are an adult, capable of deciding. This is all up to you, though. I'm placing my job and my reputation on the line so that I can see justice being served. But once again, this is all up to you. So, what do you want to do?"

I hold my breath, thinking. Should I do it? What if Kenshin wouldn't allow this if he were sitting right here next to me? Should I talk to him first? Should I let the other guys know what's going on? I don't have time and it's not like I can text or call Kenshin while he's passed out in the hospital. I can contact Hiko, who can maybe pass the phone to him. But the man's at work now and he only visits Kenshin during the evening. I have no other choice. I'm gonna have to say yes to this.

"I'll be there." I nod, and her face softens, "Thank you."

"You as well. Now run along, Soujiro. I'll come to you after ninth period."

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The rest of the school day was a blur. I tried to pay attention in class, but all my mind kept pulling back to is the past with Kenshin. How we used to have so much fun together, and kept our affair a secret. How many times we've made love to one another, and the times we held each other as we were falling apart. I miss him. I miss being in class with him. I miss taking walks with him, and getting stuff to eat with him. I miss holding his hand and seeing him smiling at me. I miss everything about him. About us. He shouldn't have to fight for my honor like that for me. I wish he didn't fought with Shishio. I don't know what to do now.

Luckily for me, it would appear that Sanosuke and Yahiko both decided to stick close to me, in order to protect me against anyone else who would want to hurt me. Though the entire school already knows about the fight, some students seemed fidgety around me because I was the boy who held Kenshin in my arms, and carried him to the hospital. Such a scene would make anyone wonder what is really going on between me and him. It would make sense. So now that all of my friends here are aware of my intimate relationship with Kenshin, I wonder when it'll finally leak to everyone else. Maybe it won't matter. Maybe it'll finally help me live my truth in peace. Maybe I really don't have anything to worry about. As long as I have my support group.. I will be okay.

Kenshin..

It's lunch period now. I could swing by the hospital, but I'm not going to have enough time to travel, eat, talk to Kenshin, and come back in time for the next class. I don't really feel like eating with Sano and Yahiko with the girls there, either. And yet at the same time, I still feel a little embarrassed facing my other friend group and them knowing what they know about me now. So, I decided to go to a nearby café, about a couple of blocks away. I have an hour to kill, and I'm not feeling too hungry for anything big. This is perfect. This is exactly what I need. I order a cup of coffee and a hot sandwich, and look through my phone. I looked at my old text messages between Kenshin and I. All the fights we had in the beginning. All the loving proclamations from him. All of my stupid jokes and smiley faces and him hating on pretty much all of them. I chuckle under my breath. The messages he sends me at four in the morning sometimes, where he talks about the weird dreams he keeps having, and what they could possibly mean. My replies to him that I have those fucked up dreams too, and that I wish I knew what they meant. The saucy texts. The good morning texts. The I miss you texts.

A single drop of water splashes on the screen, and I grunt.

What the hell?

Am I crying?

I wipe the back of my hand just under my eyes, confirming it. I sigh. I really do miss him, don't I? The Kenshin who used to walk around and be tough and in your face about what he believes in. Now he's practically a vegetable in a hospital gown. I scoff at myself for that one. Geez. When my food arrives, I eat in peace, trying to think of other things to take the edge off. I should visit Kenshin tonight. I wonder if I should tell him about the meeting I'll have today after school. Would he be mad? I think not. As long as I play my cards right, I'll be okay. He won't get in trouble. I'll make sure of that.

I look at my half finished coffee absent mindedly, when I hear the bell ringing from the front door welcoming in a new guest. And then I also hear, a familiar, husky voice, going, "Coffee. Black, with no sugar."

I blink at my reflection in the cup, before looking up to see it's Aoshi Shinomori in the flesh. Shit. He's here? He is wearing a waisted trench coat, his knuckles hidden in his pockets as he takes a gander at the menu. Something catches his eye, and he turns to me, his face devoid of any emotions, true to his temperament. I gulp, nodding in recognition. It's thanks to him that I met Kenshin in the first place. I owe so much to that man. As soon as he has his coffee in a styrofoam cup, he walks on over to my table, "Soujiro. You're here today, I see."

I smile mutely, "Good afternoon. Have a seat."

He does so, "How have you been?"

"Not so good."

"I had a feeling. I can't reach Kenshin at all for some reason."

"Didn't Sano tell you?"

"Nobody told me anything."

I grip the edge of my cup, "Kenshin.. got hurt. He got in a fight. With Makoto Shishio."

His brows furrows ever so slightly, eyes going colder than usual, "I see. Did he make it?"

"Kenshin's at the hospital," I exhale sharply, "He's out of a minor surgery. But I'm still shaken up over it. Shishio broke a bone under his eye. His eye.. Bastard."

He closes his own eyes, "I see."

Silence.

"Why are you here?"

He opens his eyes again, taking a sip, "Lunch break. I'm having a half day off from work, and I come here often for their coffee."

I blink, "Is that all you're having?"

"I already had something from my job. Plus a big breakfast. But to get back on subject.. I suppose your father still doesn't know much about Kenshin."

"Yes. And.. That's the way I like it."

"You know this will end up exactly like last time."

I let my eyes flicker back to my coffee, my smile faltering, "I know.."

"This could hurt Kenshin tremendously, if he knew the lengths your father would go for you."

"It's different this time."

"How? How is Kenshin different from your other lovers?"

I look up, my voice breaking, "Because he loves me!"

I said that too loudly, didn't I? Although there aren't many other visitors, I could see a couple of people turning towards me, blinking in my general direction over what's all the hubbub. I feel my cheeks flushing yet again, just like this morning at homeroom. Get a grip, Soujiro. What is wrong with you? You need to calm down already! I look up to see Aoshi looking at me simply, as if unfazed by my outburst, and he says, "I understand he loves you. He's a stubborn mule and won't stop at anything to do what he wants. That's certainly different from the other men you've been with. But, he is still my friend. And your father is still a piece of shit. I'm not crazy that my dad refuses to see what is wrong with him, either. You and I could face so much shit with what Kenshin have just done."

"Kenshin.. Might see jail time for this fight. I can't let him go to prison, especially not in the physical state he's in! Can't you help me?" I pleaded him.

"How? Your father would find it suspicious if you wanted to break Kenshin out of prison, wouldn't he? He'll know of what you've been doing behind his back."

I take in a faltering breath, my eyes looking down at my lap defeatedly, "I know! I just hate that all of this got out of hand!"

Silence.

"Well," He finally speaks again in an even tone, "You've got to calm down first, for one thing. I have no qualms about helping you. If there's anything you need from me later, you know exactly where to reach me and where I live."

I bring my head up to look at him, blinking. There is just a whisper of a smile on his lips now, as if reassuring me that everything will be okay.

"I have to go now," He gets up and grabs the now finished cup, "It'll be alright. You underestimate that red headed beast from hell. He won't give up on you or any of this. I just hope you don't give up on him and disappoint him. He's not like other men. He's different."

Kenshin's different. That's right. That's why I've fallen for him so hard. Aoshi's telling the truth. I soften my demeanor and beam at him, "Yeah. You're right. I'll call you later tonight. Take care of yourself."

I watch him leave, and finish my lunch before heading back to the school building.

Time to face the music.

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"You're doing alright, champ?"

That was Sano who just asked me that. I turn to him and blink, "How do you mean?"

He shrugs with just one shoulder, "Eh. You just seem out of it today during gym."

I chuckle, "I'm okay. Just.. Worried about Kenshin, that's all."

"Did you texted or called his dad at all?"

I close my locker before we both walk together down the hall for our next class together, "And tell him what? That the cops are after his son now? I doubt he'd appreciate that. And I think he'd have some tricks up his sleeve to help his son out of that shit, since he used to be a cop before."

"And a detective," Sanosuke reminds me, "Who could seriously help us with that other issue. Your dad's laptop, I mean."

I grimace, "Don't remind me. I've been having nightmares of what we found on that."

He nods, "Same. It's fucking disgusting. Do you think your dad.. likes kids?"

I shudder and, without thinking, grab a bit of his sleeve, "S-Sano, please! I don't want to think about something like that right now, okay?"

I blink at the ground a few times, before realizing what is happening; I look to the side to see my hand that is still clasping his sleeve, as well as his eyes looking at that same hand in confusion. I snap my hand back, and he grunts, "Um.."

"Ah! I'm sorry!" I now clasp my hands together, "I didn't mean to grab you like that."

He grins sheepishly, "It's all good, man. I didn't mean to also bring up something so weird in the middle of school, so that's my fault. I'm sorry."

We continue to walk on together in silence, trying to ignore.. whatever the fuck that was. I think I ought to be more careful with myself next time. I seem to do nothing but lean on people inappropriately, and it has gotten me in hot water a couple of times before. It was how Okita ended up using me because I relied on his protection against those bullies at my old school. I shouldn't be so willing to do the same with Sano. Though I know Sanosuke seems to be a really great guy, and would never go as far as rape me while videotaping the event.. I don't know. I should listen to Aoshi, and just be careful. I have to be on my toes.

There's so much that can go wrong if I keep slipping up like this.

Should I tell Sanosuke about my meeting with Mrs Kita, though? Or should I keep that to myself? I shouldn't have to lie and hide things from him, right? He's on my side now, and he'd probably want me to reason with the police. Sano and the rest of the gang used to talk so much shit about cops in previous months, and I wonder if it's a good idea to tell him what our homeroom teacher told me today. He'd appreciate me being open with him, right? I look at Sanosuke, who is looking ahead and frowning to himself, as if deep in thought. I wonder what he's thinking about. Is he thinking about Kenshin? Is he thinking about Shishio? Maybe he's thinking about Megumi, or Kaoru, or even how Misao is coping with all of this.

I wonder, also, what's going on inside all of their heads. If they'll ever truly forgive Kenshin and I for what we've done.

"Say.. Sano?" I speak softly, looking at our shoes sadly as we kept on walking down the hall, "Do you suppose.. The girls would hate us forever?"

"Huh?" He answers in a loud, bewildered voice, contrasting against my quieter voice, "Who, you mean Kaoru? And Megumi?"

"And Misao," I remind him with a sad chuckle, "I think out of all of them, she hates me the most, doesn't she?"

"Nah, dude, I.." He fumbles with his words, and then stops walking to take my shoulder into his hand to stop me from also walking on ahead of him, "Dude, listen. They don't hate you. Me and Yahiko have had numerous talks with them before you came over to our lunch table the other day. Sure, Misao's stubborn as fuck, but.. She told me she's been crying a lot over Kenshin being hurt. She really cares about him, and she cares about you, too. Trust me, I know it!"

I gape at him, ".. You're certain?"

"I'm as serious as cancer, man!" He belches out dramatically, hands out and everything. Which caught the attention of a passerby teacher who stops in front of us and has his hands on his hips in a disciplinary fashion.

"And where are you two gentlemen supposed to be at? The bells are about to ring any minute!"

Sanosuke looks like he's about ready to tear the teacher a new one, so I interrupt with a gushing squeal, "Yes! We're going to English class now! Come on, Sano, don't wanna be late!"

"Wait, I—!" Sanosuke couldn't get one proper word in because I am grabbing his hoodie by the front pocket, confusing the teacher by our strange behavior. The last thing both of us need is getting a detention and missing my meeting with Mrs Kita and the police today. And the principal. I haven't properly met him, but I hear he's kind of scary. I don't have time to get in trouble; Kenshin's already in enough trouble as it is, and he needs me now more than ever.

I can't afford to miss that meeting. Not for anything in the world.

Kenshin.

Hold on tight.

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The school day is over. Almost everyone went on home, to do homework, hang out with friends, get in trouble, and the ones who stayed behind are either the designated cleaning crew for the day, or the students who took up extra curriculum activities. For them, it's just another normal day. For me, though, it's a matter of quite possibly getting into a shit load of trouble if I do or say the wrong thing to the wrong people. I head in to my homeroom, where Mrs Kita waits for me at her desk. She is standing from her chair and nods at me, welcoming me.

"Are you alright, Soujiro?" She asks me, taking me by surprise.

"Um..?"

She walks towards me with a gentle smile, "There is nothing to be worried about. I know just exactly what to say. The only thing I want you to do, is that you felt victimized by Makoto Shishio. I have everything with me to solidify your statement."

She has in her hands, a folder full of paperwork, and I blink, grunting and totally at a loss for words.

"These are all of my formal complaints about him. I don't have police reports on him, but he's well known among the officers who will speak with you today. No doubt they've already asked the students who witnessed what they saw. Ultimately, you are the one who will tell them exactly what happened. It is the truth, after all. You felt victimized by Shishio, haven't you?"

I nod, "Yes, Mrs Kita. I have."

Maybe this will go better than I thought?

I open my eyes, and in the next beat, I'm in the principal's office. He's not here yet. It is only Mrs Kita and I, standing away from his desk. I look around the room. How many times have Kenshin seen this place before I moved in here, I wonder? He must've been here at least once a week for disciplinary actions. If what Mrs Kita told me was true today.. That I whipped Kenshin up into becoming a better behaved student, then I'm glad I pushed him. I'm glad I haven't gave up on him, making him study harder and to stop breaking the rules. This room feels like a total drag and it hasn't been more than five minutes since I've stepped in here. Finally, the door opens, and I meet face to face with the man who runs this establishment.

"Mr Saito," Mrs Kita gives a small head bow to pay her respects, "Good afternoon."

"Mrs Kita," He returns the sentiment with his own bow, turning towards me to lend his hand out, "And Seta Soujiro. Welcome."

I shake his hand. Can't be playing coy or rebellious at a time like this. I've got to play my cards right. I don't want to see Kenshin behind bars. I have to help Mrs Kita in getting Shishio expelled somehow, as well as to get him in prison rather than Kenshin. This might not be easy, or maybe it will go well as long as I keep my cool. We didn't do anything bad. Kenshin wasn't the one who started the war. It was Shishio who threatened him. Threatened us, actually. It's all his fault. It has to be.

So then, why am I so nervous?

"Have a seat, you two," Mr Saito instructs us politely as he walks on around the other side of his desk to sit down, "Mrs Kita arranged this meeting with all of us to see what we can talk with the police force today for their investigation. Though Mr Himura and I don't really see things eye to eye, I simply refuse to let this tarnish the reputation of our school, should there be more to the picture that someone is hiding."

Ah. There it is. There's the reason why I'm feeling nervous. I try to crack a smile, but the corners of my mouth seem to tremble too much in order for me to do a proper one, "I-I see, sir."

He ignores my stuttering to continue, "The police will be here in a few moments. But I think it would be best if we get everything out in the open so that the conversations with them wouldn't feel too intimidating for you, Soujiro. I'd like to ask you some questions first, if you are comfortable with that."

I nod, affirming.

"First thing's first: When you moved here from Tokyo, our faculty staff noticed that the very first student you were trying to warm up to, is the student that have gathered one of the largest amount of disciplinary actions against him. In other words, you felt comfortable and chummy being with a student who is notorious for his repeated offences on school grounds, as well as his criminal activities in which he had once faced community service. Of all the other students who show a bright future ahead of them and who would be a better fit for you to study or to befriend, why Kenshin Himura of all people?"

I blink several times, trying to think of how to respond to that question, but then Mrs Kita steps in, "Sir, if you don't mind if I may answer the question with my own perspective?"

Mr Saito keeps his cold and calculating eyes at me, "As you may."

"Thank you," Mrs Kita straightens up in her seat, "As a teacher.. As Kenshin's homeroom teacher for the past few years, actually.. I understand that he has not been the most diligent or dutiful student that he could have been for a long time now, and we were all worried about his potential. That is, until Mr Seta arrived on this establishment for his final high school year. As soon as he moved in and gotten along with Himura, he has shown remarkable improvement in his grades and his attitude towards all of his teachers. I don't think he has been doing anything illegal since getting to know Soujiro either, minus the incident between him and Makoto Shishio. So if you ask me, Mr Saito, should there really be a concern as to why Soujiro would want to spend his time on a young man like Kenshin, when we should be worried about Makoto Shishio and his dangerous behaviors instead?"

And the award goes to Mrs Kita. I smile to myself, strangely proud of her.

"These are all very valid points, Mrs Kita, and I thank you for sharing them. However," Mr Saito leans back in his leather bound chair and stare off into the distance carefully, "I would also like to hear what Soujiro have to say, as well. I want to hear from his account, and the real reasons what attracted him to Kenshin since October. Was it true that Kenshin interrupted your introductory speech during homeroom on your first day here, Mr Seta?"

I smirk to myself. I remember that. He laughed when I said that I wanted to mend the bridges between the social classes, and I remembered how bristled I felt over that at first. Who was he to laugh at me and what I had to say about that? It was something I have never quite experienced before. I was bullied at one point in my life because of my sexuality, but other than that, I was always the popular one who commanded respect where ever I went. Kenshin had to be the very first person in my life to stand me up like that, and I guess.. I guess that's when I knew I had to have him. Where as his social media pictures I discovered months prior to moving in here intrigued me at first, it was his overall take-no-shit attitude that made me yearn for him.

"He did.. interrupted me, sir," I chuckle, "But, that didn't offended me. Not at all. If anything, it made me interested in him as a person. I have never met anyone as strong willed as he is. I've spent my entire life with people who were only nice to each others' faces to get something out of it. People who kiss each other's behinds, and then talk negatively about them behind their backs. I find his bluntness refreshing and wanted to get to know him more. I realized, though we appeared very different from outsiders.. We really do share lots of things in common. We share the same beliefs, and I'm learning more about how other people live who aren't as privileged as I am. It's all thanks to him. So, of course I sought him out first. Who wouldn't?"

Mr Saito watches me for a few moments, pondering on what I said.

"I see."

We hear a low vibrating sound coming from him all of a sudden, and he checks his pocket to retrieve his phone. Mrs Kita has her hands clasped over her lap, her eyes frowning. Could that be the police? Could that be my father? Someone important?

"It's the police," Mr Saito announces, as if reading my mind, "They'll be here in a minute. Soujiro, I hope that you can be as transparent with them as you have been with me. But please consider our school's reputation as you give them more information. As well as your friend's consideration. The last thing he needs is to be behind bars just for defending himself."

"Defending..?" I trail off, my eyebrow raising up. He looks at me, totally deadpan. My eyebrow lowers, understanding now. I get it. I nod.

Mrs Kita now turns to me, "Regardless of how this started, as long as you tell them that you and Kenshin have felt threatened by Makoto Shishio and were only defending yourselves, you will be okay. And so will Kenshin, too."

Of course. I mean, it's half the truth, isn't it? Shishio threatened Kenshin. He threatened the both of us. Kenshin was just defending himself. He didn't do it just to be antagonizing or out of male pride, right? I nod to her now, understanding what's my role for this situation. I sure hope Kenshin is okay with me doing this without him, though. I can't wait till I see him tonight. My poor baby. We hear a knock on the door and we brace ourselves. It's time to face the music. Mr Saito opens the door to welcome in two policemen, and my face goes cold; one of them looked familiar, and I realized it was the same one who thought I was behaving strangely in the hallway and tried to follow me before he decided to give up and move on. He looked at me and grunt, instantly recognizing me. Oh shit. He's not going to think anything is wrong with me, will he? Hold it against me over this investigation? I grip the fabric of my jeans in a moment of inner panic, but I evade his eyes and look at my lap to get a hold of myself.

Come on, Soujiro. Don't break. Not now.

"Gentlemen," Mr Saito closes the door behind them now, "Have a seat. Can I get you anything?"

"Is there tea or coffee?" One of them, a kind looking older officer answers with a chuckle, while the one who recognized me, appearing younger and more harder around the edges, glares at me openly and without apology.

"I'll boil some water. We have both. Soujiro, can you help me in the kitchenette next door?" Mrs Kita stands up from her seat, smiling down at me.

I get up right after her, "Sure. What would you gentlemen like to have?"

It wouldn't hurt to put on my usual charming self, right?

"Oh, a cup of tea is fine by me! I don't mind what flavor it is, I'll take em' all! Shozo, did you wanted anything?" The older officer gently ribs his colleague with his elbow, laughing.

Shozo ignored the elbowing and glared at me for a few moments, before replying with a haughty mutter, "Water."

Well, yikes.

I nod, "No problem. Mr Saito, is there anything you would like?"

"Tea as well. Mrs Kita knows my favorite, so please be back as soon as you both can so we can start the meeting promptly."

"Right away, sir," Mrs Kita walks onto the back of the room to reach the door that leads to the teachers lounge room, "Come along, Soujiro."

I watch as this Shozo character watches me with hardened and suspicious eyes on me while I walk away from them to follow Mrs Kita. What's his fucking problem? Why is he keeping tabs on me like this? Is it really because I looked so sketchy that day? Do I look that guilty? I have to keep calm and stay low. Just answer their questions and be cordial. I can't afford to lose my shit and get Kenshin into trouble. It's Shishio who should go down for this, not us!

Now I'm in the teachers lounge, watching Mrs Kita put the kettle on. I watch this elderly woman opening up the cabinets to get out the fine china, and she politely points out to me where the tea boxes are at. She tells me that she loves peach tea, but Mr Saito is into jasmine. She suggests green tea for the police officer, and I pour a glass of water for Shozo the bozo meanwhile.

"Did you wanted tea also, Soujiro?" Mrs Kita is washing her hands as she asks me this, her smile warm and surprisingly maternal. She always seemed to be such a hard knock teacher since I've been at this school, but today, she reminds me of my mother in some strange way. I would like to meet her son once he's out of prison some day. I wonder if he's anything like Kenshin.

I shake my head, "Not really. I'm a little too nervous as is, and I don't think I should drink anything or I might drop something."

"I think a glass of water should be fine for now," She dries her hand with a towel, "And there's nothing to be nervous about. Mr Saito and I are on your side, Soujiro. You didn't do anything wrong or aggravated Shishio, have you?"

I shake my head once more, "No. It was.. him, who decided to attack Kenshin."

"Then tell them that. They want to know, Soujiro. I know it's hard, but.." She sighs, "It might seem better to not trust adults or authority figures, but sometimes, adults do know what to do best. Trust that I am doing this for your own sake. And for Kenshin's, as well."

"I.. I do trust you, Mrs Kita," I smile, feeling better about this now, "Oh! I think the water is ready!"

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"Now then," Mr Saito begins the meeting, setting down his tea cup after his first sip, "Let's begin."

"Mr Seta," The older cop, which I now know his name to be Tani Jusanro, "We were made aware that on the day of the physical assault, you came to the city's junkyard at approximately 16:05 to aid Kenshin Himura's injuries, and took him to a private hospital. A hospital that was surely out of his budget according to his student records, since he is on a special lunch program for low-income students. Why that hospital instead of the one closer to his home?"

I gulp dryly, but never the less kept my smiling game face on as I reply, "I wanted him to receive the best medical care that this city could provide, and I have made an agreement with his father that the Seta Enterprise will gladly pay for the medical expenses. He and his son are insured through his father's employment at the company that my father runs, and it's on our employment agreement documents before he signed that we are liable to pay for medical excesses. Plus, I have become well acquainted with Kenshin Himura, so it's no trouble for me or my father."

"We've done some research on the Seta Enterprise, it looks to be a very successful business. Because of your father's success, did you went to any private educational institutions?"

"Yes."

"Did you take semesters in other countries as well?"

"Yes."

"And these institutions provided high quality education and services for people of a certain social class?"

I pause, trying to keep my smile on point, ".. Yes."

"So then," Shozo jumps in, his eyes hardening, "Why come to this school? Surely I mean no offense to Mr Saito or Mrs Kita, as this school does provide wonderful services for all of their students and their families here. But in retrospect, this school is more appropriate for students who come from nearly upper middle class or lower in the income brackets. You stick out as the only student here whose family make way above the national average, and you'd be well suited for a school that houses students of your caliber. So, why choose this school?"

Here we go again. Don't roll your eyes, Soujiro. Be nice.

"It's true that I've attended schools for privileged children," I chuckle airily, "I wouldn't be the way I am if it weren't for those good experiences. I am happy to be in such a position to attend such wonderful institutions, and I think of myself as a hard working student who can afford to be in them. At the same time, though.. I wanted to really know what it's like to be with people less fortunate than I am. My father wants me to study political science and business, so that I can take over the Enterprise in the future. I think exposing myself to all different kinds of people would really help bring me down to the real world and how to deal with all sorts of individuals, not just the affluent ones. Kenshin really is the most interesting and realistic person I've ever come to know; he brings me back to Earth whenever I'd get too idealistic about things or other people, and maybe.. maybe that's why he did what he had to do."

"What do you mean by that?" Tani's eyebrow arches.

Shozo still looks like he's ready to kill me.

"I mean.. Shishio accused him of being into men, as in, being gay or something. And Kenshin supports people who are.. You know. Like that. He knows how terrible things can be for people who are born that way. He wanted to stand up for people who can't help being the way they are. I used to think people complained just to complain, you know? But now I realize that these are just the type of social issues that a lot of people who are from different socioeconomic backgrounds face on a daily basis. He did nothing wrong but defended himself. Shishio told him he wanted to fight him first. At the junkyard, I mean."

"I see, I see," Tani is writing on his little notepad, "How long have you known Kenshin?"

"Since my very first day here in October. Mrs Kita assigned Kenshin to show me around the school and our friendship grew from there."

"Have you met his other friends?"

"Yes."

"And they like you?"

What is that supposed to mean?

"Yes. Of course."

Tani continues to write on his notepad, and his friend Shozo comes in with his own questioning, "How close are you to Kenshin?"

"We're friends." I said through my teeth, my smile still not budging despite my temper already flaring.

"Do you know what the other students are saying about you?" There is a hint, a hint, of a curve on one of side of his lips, enjoying how my own smile is deflating from hearing that question, ravishing how nervous I suddenly look.

"I beg your pardon?" Mrs Kita bristles from where she sits.

"Now, now, let's not get too personal!" Tani shakes his head and pats Shozo on the shoulder to calm him down, "The other students only gave their side of the story, but we are more concerned about those who are directly affected by all of this. Did Shishio ever targeted you before this incident?"

"Well.." I choose my next words carefully, my eyes fluttering down to the floor shyly, "He did corner me before gym class one time, and Kenshin found me before anything went too far. I think that's when Shishio decided he wanted to beat Kenshin up on a later date. Kenshin was trying to defend me."

"Why did Shishio target you?" Shozo pushes, earning me a glare from my eyes.

"I don't know." I lie, knowing exactly why. Shishio knows that I'm rich and come from an affluent society. He knows that I'm not like other boys. He knows that I am a homosexual. I'm possibly the only gay boy in this school who openly has sexual relations with another boy. Of course he would target me. He's just the type of ruffian who would express homophobic sentiment with his other druggy friends like that. It's disgusting.

Shozo leans back in his chair, backing off, "Huh. I see."

"Shishio has shown a pattern of violent behaviors on all sorts of students," Mr Saito takes another sip of his tea, "We have his records if you gentlemen would like to have a look. He is raised by his father and no one else. It's hard to reach his father for anything, much less as something as serious as this, so you'll have to visit his home if you want anything else about Makoto Shishio."

I sit there quietly, trying to ignore Shozo's suspicious eyes on me.

"I do have some other inquiry," Tani turns to me now, "The other students have told us that they were made aware of how much time you've been spending with Kenshin, and how it seemed to have weakened his friendships with his group. What happened, if you mind my asking?"

I bit the inside of my cheek, carefully answering, "I'm not sure, but I think they had an argument."

"About?"

"Kenshin's ex-girlfriend."

"Oh," Tani nods, "Miss Kamiya Kaoru, is that correct?"

My heart thumps in my chest, "Y-yes."

Did they talked to her?

"We had a word with her and she mentioned that she is no longer on speaking terms with Himura Kenshin, on account of this break up. She said that it had something to do with you, but wouldn't tell us as to why that is. Said that talking about it hurts her and that she wants to move on from this. Do you know why she would say something like that?"

"I'm sorry!" I pipe up suddenly with a fake bright smile, taking everyone by surprise, "I don't see how this has anything to do with the situation at hand!"

Tani grunts, "Yes, well, the reason why I brought her up.. Was because she said that you and him are 'way more than just friends', which stumped me. I'm an old guy, so I don't understand most of the slang that the youth uses, but way more than just friends sounds like you and him—"

"—That simply isn't true at all, Mr Tani, sir," I smile through gritted teeth once more, my heart running at a higher speed, "K-Kenshin and I, are merely just very good friends. She was the jealous type, and.. and, you know, Kenshin didn't wanted a relationship like that. She was jealous of how much time he was spending with me, and I'm sorry she feels that way, but it's not my fault. She just has issues."

Yes. It's not my fucking fault that Kenshin would rather spend his time and his entire life with me rather than with you, Kaoru.

"Ah. I see. Well," Mr Tani closes his notepad, "I think I'm done here for now. Would it be okay if we speak with your father about this incident, Mr Seta?"

Fuck. Well, I did told Hiko that I would be responsible in handling the medical expenses, and my father only gives me a few bank cards for personal usage. Since I'm eighteen years old, I could privatize my accounts, but he'll notice it and ask me why. And what if Kenshin needs more surgery? Or other medications? It's a lot to pay for, I think. Dad only gave me just enough from his own wealth so that I can have as much fun as I want while living with him. And maybe to shut me up about any shady businesses he does on the down low. He'll come to know what is happening, and maybe I'll talk to my dad so that he won't freak out too much when the cops do visit us. I nod finally at Mr Tani, "Yes. That's fine."

"Wonderful," The officers get up from their seats, "We'd like to thank you all for taking the time to answer some questions. We will be in touch. I'd say we have a good case against Shishio here, and Kenshin seems to be a victim in all of this. Thank you for the time. And for the tea, too!"

Mrs Kita promptly gets up from her own seat to show the men the door, "Thank you both so much for the meeting. We will certainly await for more correspondence. In the meantime, Mr Saito and I will discuss Shishio's placement here on this establishment."

"Yes, have a good evening." Mr Saito follows along, giving a small bow to the officers who return the sentiment.

The door closes and I exhale deeply, "I think.. I did well, did I?"

"You have. Would you like some tea or do you have to leave?" Mrs Kita smiles at me.

"I'll be okay. I.. Have someone I have to go see. An important appointment."

"That would be all, then," Mr Saito gets up from his seat, "I have other things to attend to as well. I'll be assured that nothing bad will happen after today, is that correct?"

I shake my head, "No, sir."

"Good. Have a good night."

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Kenshin.

Will you be mad at me at what I just did without you, now?

(To be continued.)