Author's Notes: I decided to just publish it much earlier as this is the continuation of Chapter 06 Rest Day. It was really suppose to be only a filler but I saw a great opportunity and it ended up being one of the Key chapters of the story. It was too long so I cut it in two! hohohoho~! (ﾉ≧∀≦)ﾉ
Though I wonder if it's too cheesy, please forgive me then. I tried to be eloquent but I'm afraid I'm not up to the task. If you find that it's too sickeningly sweet then forgive this newbie author. (╯°Д°）╯︵/(.□ . )
To those who'll like it, let me kiss you! (((( ﾉ´3｀)ﾉ ･･･Σ(ﾟдﾟ;;ﾉ
I hope that you'll enjoy this! （*＾3＾）/～
(≧∇≦) … (〜￣▽￣)〜 ….. *:.. o(≧▽≦)o ..:*….. (〜￣▽￣)〜… (≧∇≦)
Chapter 07
Revelations at the Oddest Places
"Don't push me! I can't get a clear shot!"
There was rustling from the leaves of the small bush that barely hid their huge group. The normally graceful and elegant Night Class cramped behind the bundle of leaves that failed to conceal their hilarious position.
"Why are you guys even here?" Asked the vice-president of the Night Class to his companions; Shiki who was only half-awake, Aido with overflowing determination and Kain with his face already expecting failure and punishment. All stuck too close to him to avoid being expose since they were still highly noticeable and very much recognizable even with their sunglasses and hats. Their sneaky attitude only made them look more suspicious and eye-catching.
"Because we do not trust that you'll be able to do this smoothly! Look, you're even too near. They'll detect us!" Hissed Hanabusa. His striking blue eyes, shielded by a pair of dark sports sunglasses, intent on the vampire couple who were currently watching their children ride the merry-go-round. Aren't they too old for that?
"Did you think I never thought of that? Here!" Ichijou hissed back. He wore a shield type, dark violet colored sunglass while a black reporter's cap hid his golden tresses. He looked back at their targets after handing overva ring with a small red stone to the persistent blonde.
He regretted telling the others of the errand the Chairman had informed him early that morning which he willingly and most eagerly accepted. That was to stalk the Moon Dorm President's family outing and make sure to take wonderful pictures of their bonding. Now, instead of him alone, all of them were there.
Aido and Kain, who both took off of their colored sunglasses to better look at the object, became slack-jawed after studying the ring. They looked at their vice-president with wide-eyes. "Ichijou-san, wha- how? Don't tell me you-," They looked back at the ring adorned by a blood stone then back to their vice-president with disbelief clear in their eyes.
"Ahh! No! I just asked our little prince, Akira-kun, the most effective way to sneak up undetected then he suddenly gave that to me." He, of course, would never be audacious enough to ask for pure blood or blood stone. Never! He just asked the child who would less likely be suspicious of the question and would most likely know the answer so he went to the younger brunette twin, Akira. He was handed this as an answer. "I was told by Haku-kun that Akira-kun's power is the creation of the most powerful barriers. This ultimate shield will be able to conceal even the most powerful presence."
"Heh~?" The blond genius eyed the blood stone with interest. "Like a force-field? Wow… as expected of Kaname-sama's child." He concluded with slight wonder regarding the other royals' unique abilities. He imagined it was as great as the other's.
"Yes. Anyway, with this, even Kaname will not be able to detect us as long as we don't visibly appear to the naked eyes. So, you guys go back already!" He insisted before pushing Aido's face away with his hand.
"No! We're already here so might as well but perhaps Kat should go back since he stands out like a sore thumb."
The redhead was pissed off at that since it was his cousin who dragged him out to follow Ichijou-san. He only consented so he could watch over his overzealous relative who always manages to get tangled with troubles which always land his genius ass to punishment and, consequently, him as well because of their relationship and his responsibility towards this little blond devil. He was about to say a retort when a snobbish snort which still managed to sound elegant came from behind them.
They turned their heads to Ruka who was sitting with Rima. Both were seated comfortably under a café umbrella with tea already ordered and served. They didn't even bother to hide or put in any disguise like the Night Class's men.
"How ridiculous." She commented snobbishly. Rima silently agreed.
"Ruka-chan, Rima-chan, they might see you!" Ichijou almost panicked when he saw how greatly the two stood out for their beauty attracted the attention of both men and women. Only her irritated aura prevented anyone from actually approaching their table. He was ignored and both continued to enjoy their tea, completely passing up the chance to look pathetic and disgraceful.
"Ah ha! I knew it!" The men blanched when they heard a loud and familiar feminine voice but immediately sighed in relief the moment they found that it only came from the female prefect. She had a mischievous grin playing on her plump pink lips.
"Yuki-chan, please don't scare us like that. Oh, and please hide quickly. They might spot you." Ichijou requested. The feeling of incredible happiness instantly bubbled deep inside him at the sight of the brunette.
"They're already gone to go to the next ride. Don't worry; I watched them go before coming here to make sure I wouldn't be found." She assured them. Two fingers were even held in a 'peace' sign to which Ichijou smiled.
"Why are you even here? I thought Kaname-sama said you have plans with a friend?" Aido interjected.
"Yup, we're finished with shopping but I heard some interesting whispers from the girls that came from here about several gorgeous men popping out here and a sighting of a certain famous model." She motioned in Rima's way. "So, I came here. I knew you guys are up to something fun." She smiled while explaining. "Yori-chan came back first. So, I'll- eh?" She stopped when she spotted something behind them and gaped at that.
Ichijou, Aido and Akatsuki followed her stare to reveal one Ichiru Kiryū smiling gorgeously down at his date. They all watched a blond beauty flirtatiously wrap an arm around the silverette's.
Yuki fought the laughter she felt at the absurd picture. She never saw Ichiru on any of his dates before but she found his expression absolutely phony and forced. What's with all the flowers and glitter in the background?
It was not like him though he was naturally very charming. There was just something in his eyes that was completely off. Her eyes naturally travelled back to his future spouse to assess whether he felt anything towards the silverette already and was amazed at the dark expression he possesses.
She never saw Aido-senpai have this hostile expression before. That was saying something considering the many glares he already exchanged with Zero. It was a look that would send even his most faithful fan to run away. If looks could kill, then Ichiru or that girl would be dead by now judging from his glower. 'Oh, brother dear, you just don't know how deep you dug your own grave.' She amusedly grinned.
Kain looked at his cousin with apprehension. Of course, he knew of Hana's affection towards the younger silverette though the blond adamantly denied it. He pointed it as merely glaring and only the effects of his hate towards the older twin.
What Hanabusa didn't know was that he didn't always glare at Ichiru and was most of the time unknowingly caught wistfully staring with longing in his eyes after the younger silverette. He didn't press his cousin for more but he didn't know what to do now that he could see jealousy burn his cousin's normally cool orbs, sadly contemplating how not even all his genius could solve the complex problems of the heart.
Ichijou was also worried. Being one of the most sensitive and observant of the feelings of everyone around him, he also knew and noticed Aido's feelings. Since he knew the painful feeling of longing and jealousy just as well, he was concerned for his blonde friend.
"Are you all done yet? I think you just lost Kaname-sama completely." Ruka's voice shook all of them from their musings except Aido who still followed Ichiru's date with venom in his cold aquamarine eyes. "If you lot are done with this ludicrous business then I would like help with my shopping." She quickly grabbed Akatsuki's arm to lead him away. Kain let himself be stirred away. Even if he was still worried about Aido, he couldn't deny anything his love demanded. And so, he allowed his heart to drag him around for her shopping. He lamented how both he and his cousin never had much luck with love.
"Senri, wake up. We also need to go. The agency just called me. Hey, wake up. Hey~," Rima followed while shaking the copper-haired model which caused both his round brown sunglass and fedora hat go out of place. When he finally stirred to look up at her, she proceeded and also dragged her male co-worker after she bid farewell to the vice-president.
"Wow~, that's fast. I guess it's just the three of us then. That'll be easier, right? Ichijou-senpai, Aido-sen-, eh?" Yuki started. She and Ichijou just only realized that their other blonde companion was already nowhere in sight. They looked at each other with worry and wonder in their eyes.
When he was met with big, round sienna eyes, bright with glee and amusement, Ichijou was suddenly very aware that they were alone together and was forced to realize the dangers following that or pains coupled with that.
Yuki wasn't aware that her only companion was staring at her with strong desire hidden in his mysterious green eyes. Her mind completely wandered to wherever the blue-eyed blonde was. Her chin rested between her index finger and thumb while her head tilted slightly as she plunged into deep thoughts and happy assumptions of the chaos he'd cause to jeopardize her adopted-brother's date.
Verdant orbs watched the prefect innocently conjure several happy accidents that may happen which may lead to something romantic later on, a smile on her lips. He followed her every move. Her short dark-brown hair slightly being ruffled by the wind, her charming smile and the twinkle in her bright auburn orbs, all the while getting captivated and entranced with each passing moment.
He had been in love with the female guardian for as long as he could remember. Though at first, she was only a normal human that their leader was curiously interested with. After witnessing that unwavering pure light grew up with her innocence, the strong spirit which refused to be affected even when tangled with the darkness that surrounded her, her strong love for her adopted family and how she persistently did her best to cheer up the twins even when the older Kiryū rebuked her at first and watched her give her all especially in her duties as a guardian even with her clumsiness, his heart unknowingly got captured. He was already deeply in love with her before he even knew he was caught.
His heart was, of course, also broken the moment he realized his feelings. It was painfully clear that his king held the prefect's heart that was why he never voiced it out. He never showed even an inkling of his true feelings, nothing that would betray his heart. He knew his regards would never be reciprocated. It would only be a burden to her as well as trouble for his friend, Kaname.
When the children and a new prospect appeared, his feelings were torn. He contemplated how much happiness Kaname would have, how Yuki would definitely be hurt by this and how he'd finally have the chance he never thought would ever appear. He didn't think that it would mean that Yuki would finally turn to him. Still, he felt that it was the best chance he'd ever get.
When he found out how Yuki forgave and accepted the relationship between the two most important people in her life, he was bewitched once again by her strong and beautiful spirit. Her heart's kindness and strength always seem to amaze him. He knew he didn't make a mistake when he fell in love with her. She'd forever be his only princess, his queen.
While staring at her, he decided that he'd make his move now and he'd make sure that when her heart was next captured, it would be by him.
"Oooooh dear! Who should I go after? Zero or Ichiru? Which one will be more fun? Zero or Ichiru? Zero or Ichiru?" The brunette muttered under her breath, completely oblivious of the promise Ichijou made while watching her slight indecision.
Yuki was only shaken out of her musings when a cap was placed on her head. When she looked up, she saw Ichijou looked at her with a different kind of smile on his lips and a captivating look in his eyes. Is that a seductive smile?
She blinked and found herself a bit mesmerized by his green eyes. She had always thought that vice-president Ichijou Takuma was as mysterious as the president of the Night Class. However, she never realized how manly he looked because of the childishly cheerful expression he always wore. She didn't think him shallow; rather, she always felt that there was something more in him than he allowed others to see.
"Wear this so that they'll not recognize you." Takuma offered before also putting the pair of dark sunglasses he wore on her. They were so close when he did that that he unknowingly made the prefect's heart beat a bit faster. "I'm glad," He smiled at the prefect's frown, "that you're feeling all better. I was worried about you."
Yuki was caught off guard at the look he gave her, with such sincerity and tenderness, that she slightly gaped. He seemed so different somehow and there was something in the way he said this that made her blush and heart beat even faster. She didn't know what… it was like, suddenly, she was looking at a man.
She didn't get to think more for he suddenly grabbed her hand to guide her to search for the pureblood and his family though it was not lost to her how warm his hand on hers felt… and how right.
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The oblivious family of seven continued on to their jolly trip. They went from one ride to another, unaware that their stalkers, now reduced to two persistent beings, had already caught up with them. All were ignorant how two pairs of hands managed to immortalized their every moment in photographs as per a certain idiotic Chairman's request. Yuki very much wanted to capture an extremely sweet one for personal pleasure and as a hidden weapon against Zero later on.
Their every move was still followed by a bunch of starry-eyed women. The hunter still blamed it on the handsome brunette quietly eating lunch in a small family restaurant inside the park, oblivious to the stares his own good looks earned. He waived and ignored the irritation this had caused him both because he was never the type to want attention especially from an annoying bunch and also because of the feeling that arose from this which he didn't want to call jealousy.
The silverette just busied himself in looking after the children. Currently, he was wiping Suiren's mouth, or rather face, which was dirtied after eating her ice cream. "How did you get this dirty just after eating?" He laughingly asked his youngest while gently rubbing a wet towel over her lips and cheeks. She energetically answered that she wanted to eat as much and as fast as possible so they'd have more time to play. He awarded her a soft smile.
After eating, they went back to the rides. They spotted a target shooting booth that caught the hunter's attention. With the children's cheer and encouragement, he played it and shot the moving cardboard targets with great precision. The perfect score he got earned him a prize stuffed toy animal. He played twice to get two prizes which he gave to his youngest twin.
The three young brunettes also played, displaying great accuracy. But none was as precise as Akira. It made Kaname and Zero meet each other's eye. While all three was able to hit all the targets, only Akira was able to hit all targets in the exact same place, at the very center. This greatly impressed his parents.
"I win!" Akira exclaimed throwing his hands in the air.
"The last time I checked, you only need to shoot them all, not shoot them all at the center, Akira, so we all won." Kohaku wryly reminded his twin.
"You've been using guns all your life so of course you're good at it. But Kohaku and I have been using katanas so we're also great at having been able to shoot all targets despite that, ne~ otou-chan?" The eldest child poutingly justified and turned to their otou-chan.
"Err… Yeah. You all did a great job." The silverette praised to placate their eldest. "Though, why is Akira so good at this?"
"He's been using twin guns as his anti-vampire weapon all his life." Kohaku explained before turning to the shop keeper, who couldn't follow the discussion, to retrieve their prizes.
"Heh, yup!" Akira grinned. "It's Blood Moon or rather Red Moon, my Akatsuki." He proudly declared.
Zero and Kaname were then again reminded of this fact about their children. It made sense that if Anne could wield and possesses an anti-vampire weapon, it would be the same for the rest of them.
"So, all of you have your own anti-vampire weapon?" Kaname asked while they continued to walk. The youngest walked on their own and were looking extremely cute as they hugged the stuffed toys they were given that were a lot bigger than them.
"Um! I wield a single katana, White Night -Byakuya. Akira has twin guns Blood Moon -Akatsuki, Kohaku favored twin swords, Crimson Lotus – Guren. There's Nao's katar which is Yoarashi or Night Storm and Suiren's white chain she called Hakushi or White Death." Anne further expounded.
Zero couldn't decide if he really like the idea of his children carrying and being trained with weapons already at such an early age. "Isn't it too early for you to be carrying weapons?" He frowned.
Kaname only then just realized that he hadn't let on the fact of their children's true age and the fact about their growth process. When it was explained, Zero was dumbfounded. His hunter stared at him with wide eyes which he found really adorable. He realized that he had not seen much of the silverette's expression, other than glares, stares and glowers, just as much as the hunter did not know his. He had seen very little of his mate's charming smile and he was very much determined to see it all.
"Wow…" Zero stared, not knowing what to say. "Ten years, huh… so it will take ten years before you go out of your diapers?" He asked but more to himself. He wondered how hard it would be to raise them all as infants for ten years. Of course, he knew that he didn't need to worry about ten years' worth of diapers since he was very sure the filthy rich bastard of a pureblood was more than capable of handling financial matters.
"Ah." The children laughed at their father's words. Clearly, clarification was needed. "Don't worry about that, otou-chan. It's not like that. Our growth is normal up until our bodies turn about three but it will stay like that for 28 years…" Anne began, trying not to sound depressed.
When she saw the confusion, she further explained. "It's still because of our blood. It's a powerful blood that has been designed to survive or rather, has the strong desire to survive. Because our blood was a mixed with Suzaku's blood properties and strong pure blood, we'll grow up normally until we have a body that would be capable to fight and protect ourselves. At three, we at least have enough muscle to run and wield a weapon so that's why we stopped growing normally afterwards. Our blood is assured that we'll be capable of warding off any enemies. Well, it was what Hana-jiji said. He handles studying hybrids' case." She smiled when she remembered that one of the reason his uncle was handling their case was also for his own kids because his children - Fuji, Nobara and Sakura are hybrids like them.
"It's not clear though why it took us 28 years before our body grew up again… perhaps because it was supposed to be naturally ten mortal years to one hybrid's year, Because of our Suzaku's blood's power sped up the process for the first three years, we became stuck to a three years old's body to spend our natural years…" She shrugged, not wanting to be reminded of their immensely long life-span. "Oh well, the important thing is, we'll be together for a long time!"
The child turned to hug Zero who was inwardly worried for her forcefully cheerful smile didn't go unnoticed. Apprehensive amethysts glanced at Kaname who seemed to understand. There was a looked in his burgundy eyes that hinted a talk between them later on. The silverette nodded in agreement so he allowed the topic to be shifted.
All four younger children did their best to return to the peaceful and joyous ambience they were enjoying moments ago when they sensed their older sister's dampened spirits. She allowed herself to forget it and enjoyed their family date. They all then decided to see the haunted house which Zero doubted would scare vampires, true creatures of the night, like them.
They entered the dark place which contained plastic imitations of ghosts, ghouls, decapitated human parts and other things that didn't remotely impress him. Not even the scary background music or effects had any impact. Silver-lavender orbs merely impassively watched after the children walking before them. With their stuffed toys safely tucked somewhere safe in another dimension, the silverette twin held each other's hands. Each of their other free arms clung around their older brothers' which were on either side of them while their older sister walked after them. Said brunette's hands comfortably placed behind her back like she was walking in a garden and not in a place full of scary things.
They wandered inside to a place that resembled a cemetery. While the children giggled at the zombies that tried to approach them, the hunter let himself be immersed as thoughts of his future came to mind. He already agreed to accept his fate; his child that was most likely already alive and was oddly currently walking in front of him, and consequently, his life with the vampire who was just right beside him.
He realized that there were still some things he hadn't thought of yet.
He agreed to have his children but what did it entail?
They were mates but were they lovers?
He knew and it was blaringly obvious what it was that he wanted and wished for but did Kaname felt the same?
Then it hit the hunter that maybe, Kaname only wanted him for the children and not because he had feelings for him. He suddenly felt dizzy and wretched. He was immediately jolted out of his misery when a hand and fingers slipped to intertwine with his own. Zero looked at Kaname's dazzling and quiet smile which he could clearly see despite the dark surrounding thanks to his enhanced vampire sight. He felt like he drowned at that moment for he could clearly see the answer in those clear wine-colored eyes that looked tenderly at him. His pureblood squeezed his hand slightly and came close to whisper to him.
"What was on your mind? You had a pained look on your face. What is it?" The Vampire King asked in a very gentle voice.
Zero always scoffed at Kaname's sweet way of addressing Yuki. He always thought how deceptive it was but he was completely lost now that it was directed at him. He didn't want to be affected but he was. How could it not? When it didn't sound or feel fabricated but genuine and sincere.
He allowed himself to smile inwardly but he didn't let it show. Instead, he just turned to him and answered in a sarcastic tone that lost all power and rudeness to leave only his stubbornness at showing affection which Kaname, of course, knew given that his hunter didn't let go of his hand but closed his fingers around his. "What, were you watching me?"
"Every movement." His smile became even more magnificent at his hunter's reaction.
"Hmph." The silverette didn't answer anymore since he didn't know what to say. He knew he'd never win the battle of words with this smart ass anyway. So, they walked in silence and simply let their hands warm each other's before forcing to let go once they reached the exit.
Pale hand twitched when the cool wind made it cold but his heart stayed warm.
He finally found his answers.
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"Kyaaa!" It was an honestly horrified exclamation that came from a teary-eyed brunette who eagerly and foolishly followed their targets inside a horror mansion. She momentarily forgot her fright of ghosts and such paranormal creatures for thoughts of the romantic happenings that their camera might capture, that such booths create between couples, filled her mind. She completely forgot everything. Even the fact that there was no way that either Kaname-senpai or Zero would be scared.
"Yuki-chan, please calm down. It's okay. They're not real." Ichijou tried to calm the terrified prefect. He knew of her fear and would have stopped her had she not run in first shouting gleefully 'We have a scoop!' like some paparazzi only to be stopped dead by the sight of a crawling bloody mummy. She ran deeper inside in an attempt to get away when it tried to grabbed her foot only to be greeted by other ghostly creatures that were strangely eager to scare. Perhaps it was because of the unaffected group before them; with children who merely giggled and passed by them nonchalantly.
"Let me out! Let me out! Help me! Ichijou-senpai!" She yelled, not understanding anything for she clamped her hands on her ears to drown the eerie sounds. She jumped when a shrill scream of a woman came behind her and a hand held her shoulder. "Kyaa!" She blurted and threw her hands in the air before thoughtlessly wrapping them around Ichijou's back. She didn't let go and he didn't move for she tightened her hug as much as she could as if her life depended on it.
Ichijou stiffened. He was crushed in an embrace and he couldn't bring himself to move. Either because she held him so tight that he couldn't or in fear of ending it abruptly, he couldn't decide. He only knew that he felt grateful for the innocent opportunity he was given.
It was the first time he smelled the lovely fragrance of her hair. He tried very hard not to inhale her scent too obviously or to hug her incredibly soft body in the same fashion that would most likely reveal his hidden feelings of affection. Though he allowed himself to carefully stroke her hair. He didn't do anything much and simply immersed himself in the joy that came at being hugged by his beloved. It unknowingly made his heart beat too fast enough for even Yuki, whose ear was pressed against his chest, to hear.
The brunette was at first lost in her own fright that she didn't realize what she just did or to whom the strong warm body she pressed herself against belonged to. She also didn't register the comforting smell of new books and fresh linens that she inhaled, or quickly hear that there was a sound of beating drums she can hear nearby.
Very, very near.
When it registered to her where the warmth, the smell and the sound which was in fact a heart beating very wildly, came from, she immediately looked up to find the angelic face of the vice-president of the Moon Dorm looking at her with captivating lights swimming in his emerald-green eyes. She caught her breath when she grasped just how close her face was to his and how a tip-toe will enable her to fully kiss his alluring, smiling lips. She blushed and suddenly, her heart beat a tad faster than it already was and not because of fright but due to other things she didn't have the right mind to think about at the moment.
"Are you quite alright, Yuki-chan?" Takuma finally asked when they already spent minutes only staring at each other's eyes. He didn't trust himself not to bend down to do what he'd been desiring to accomplish since years ago.
Yuki blushed even more furiously. Words got clogged in her throat so she only nodded, completely forgetting why they were hugging in the first place. She let go very slowly, fast feeling disappointment when her body felt cold without his. They stood in awkward silence for only a minute before Ichijou took her hand in his again which made Yuki perked up. The warmth she oddly missed came back to her. Her heart thumped ever so fast but in constant beat this time as she was guided. The scary background noise and scary costumes became blurred nonsense. Sienna orbs simply focused on the soft golden tresses swaying slightly on their way to the exit.
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'It's official; I've completely lost my mind.'
This depressing thought came from the doleful blond currently sitting on a bench inside the amusement park. He dispiritedly looked up in the sky, thankful that at least the sun was not high up. Blankly wondered how did he end up this hurt when normally, he should have been sleeping peacefully and snuggly on his bed. If only he had stayed in bed and didn't let his nosiness get the better of him, he'd be happily clueless regarding that guy's date.
He groaned, completely ignoring the many stares he'd been receiving since earlier from all the women who had been trying to get his attention ever since they saw him. Though it would have been more welcome in different situations, not now. Not when he felt like his heart was not with him but had run away to wherever that infuriating silverette was.
He was completely lost, emotionally and literally. He instinctively followed that person with his tasteless date when they moved to a different location. When he realized what he was doing or what he was intending to do which was to drag Ichiru somewhere with him and give him a good beating for reasons he didn't want to explain, he immediately stopped himself just in time before doing something he'd not be able to alter and resumed his search for Ichijou or that female prefect. He tried sensing their presence and mentally kicked himself when he remembered that they were using a very strong barrier that would make them undetectable.
Hanabusa instantly felt stupid and tired. Why did he even go out? It was so pointless to even linger around knowing he'd not be able to sense his companions. His eye-catching hair might even be spotted by Kaname-sama if he loitered around. Yet, he couldn't bring himself to go back with the knowledge that that bastard was somewhere around there together with some unknown girl. It made his blood boil that he couldn't even find the strength to stand or the will to leave.
"I'm doomed…" for life.
He just knew it.
He was done for
For he felt his heart took a permanent residence in that silverette's arms since long ago. Of course. He was not stupid or he wouldn't be called a genius. He knew perfectly well that what he felt towards the younger Kiryū was not hatred. He had long since identified that feeling but refused to give it name. He just couldn't accept the fact that he had fallen hard for a human male with hunter's blood at that! Not to mention, the silverette shared the visage of that aggravating hunter.
Kiryuu Ichiru was human with hunter's blood. A man who normally wouldn't be able to give heirs and with Zero's face on top of all that, so why? Why was it that no reasons were enough to put an end to his feelings? Why even with that did he still see that face every freaking time he woke up or still envisioned that person with him all through his long vampire life? Why the itch in his chest that he thought was evanescent continued to grow to become a gaping hole with his heart stolen?
He sighed and leaned his head on top of the bench's rail.
The vampire looked back on the moment he first met the silverette. He was prejudiced against him for being the twin brother of the audacious hunter who dared attack their beloved Kaname-sama. Hanabusa instantly hated him and even resolved to see him in pain when he realized how important he was to that older twin of his.
The noble then began observing him from afar. It didn't take him long to see what he was looking for because Ichiru was really weak and sickly as a child. Even when the silverette became a bit healthier as he grew up, he was still not as strong as he would like. He would still get sick and have asthma attacks from time to time.
He was first disgusted at how incredibly frail that child was. It only showed how pathetic and delicate a human's life was, but it all changed when he saw something else in him. As the vampire continued on to watch him, he realized that Ichiru was incredibly frail but only physically for he refused to succumb to his weakness.
His spirit stronger than anyone he knew.
Once, there was a race that their class needed to do as part of their academic activity. Aido was skeptical and he wondered why, when the prefect could easily avoid participating by presenting a very much valid medical certificate, did he still run? He couldn't understand why he would go through all the trouble. Why did he even try? Aido knew that more than anyone else, Ichiru knew about his health and frailty so why wouldn't he just give up?
The blonde watched him become extremely red faced because of the effort and so breathless that it made the teachers very worried and of course his brother, the Chairman, and Yuki. They were very concerned for they were unaware of his participation in the race because of a business in the Hunter Association.
Aido was stunned at his brilliance then. He watched the others shouted at him to stop but the stubborn silver-head only breathlessly shouted back that he could do it. He continued to run, finishing it regardless of the outcome.
He'd never forget that day when everyone fussed at a very flushed Ichiru who was immediately sent to the clinic while being scolded by Kaien Cross, Zero and Yuki but still managed a proud, happy and breathless laugh. He was of course dead last and though he lost the race, he had unknowingly won an elusive heart.
The proud vampire was caught ever since that day. He was even more ensnared as he continued to watch him like the time when Ichiru mastered kendo. Aido would watch him practice every night. The silverette would practice very hard enough to develop calluses and had labored breathing. Ichiru was no genius, especially when it came to fighting. That was why he needed great practice but the fact that he was fragile in body, ability and talents never seemed to daunt him but rather, it made him stronger.
The nights he watched the silverette struggle with his sickly body and asthma was even more frequent. The blonde knew that he was in great pain for it caused the young prefect to shed some tears but he would stand amazed for his frail and feeble light refused to go out even to the very end.
He never saw anyone as beautiful and sprightly as Ichiru. That was why his anger towards the older brother grew when he noticed the depressed look Ichiru would have every time his older twin's magnificence in everything was proven time and time again. He knew Ichiru never hated Zero for it because it was not his brother's fault that he was simply great whereas he was pathetically weak. Still, Aido never liked how the young silverette would often despairingly laugh and sigh at his own hopelessness when he thought no one was looking. Aido made a silent promise then that he'd stay and watch over Ichiru no matter what.
He didn't tell anyone of his feelings or his promise. He continued on to watch over the younger Kiryū but he regretted it when he once witnessed a scene that crushed his heart into pieces and gave him a harsh reminder of who he was in love with. It was when he first gathered all his courage to confess only to see Ichiru kissing a girl in the Academy woods. His genius ass came crushing down the earth and he felt his soul lost to him. He was reminded that he was in love with a man.
"Of course..." He was really kidding himself. He long knew he loves him and had been long resolved to have him. Yet, what prevented him was the simple fear of getting rejected because he knew and it was a well-known fact that Ichiru was a lady's man. His charm enamored many of the Day Class students. Hanabusa just knew the possible reactions he'd have if a man, a vampire on top of that, would confess to him.
Yes.
He was incredibly frightened that there would ever be a time when he'd be hated by the silverette. That disgust would ever be reflected in his very charming lilac orbs. That he'd ever scurry away at the sight of him.
Being rejected would be the worst.
Every time he'd try to gather his courage again to confess, those fears would always trample it.
He groaned, feeling more disheartened and dejected after remembering why he loved the silverette and why until now, he still didn't have him.
Even though he knew that this was the only love he'd ever experience and want.
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The hunter watched the spectacular shift of soft gold, orange, lilac and light blue streaks painted the heavens as the sun slowly descended from its high throne in the sky from their seat inside the car of the amusement park's Ferris Wheel. It was a scene that would take anyone's breath away. However, instead of the view, the pureblood watched him, hypnotized by enchanting silver strands dancing with the wind coming from the open window of their cabled-car. The hunter's hair color almost indistinguishable as it reflected the light of the setting sun.
He trailed his burgundy eyes on the silverette's perfect profile that was exposed to him, as his hunter looked out the window to stare at the spellbinding view, to his beautiful lilac orbs which reflected quiet fascination with the setting sun. Kaname was honestly more enraptured by his mate's gorgeous features than the sunset that he didn't make a move to look anywhere else but at Zero. An uncharacteristic smile on his lips for he found it a great prospect if it was his silverette's face that he'd come to greet every morning across the breakfast table for the rest of his given life.
His stare must have finally unnerved the hunter since he finally turned to look at him. It was something Zero had been clearly avoiding ever since their children pushed them inside to be alone while the kids rode the car that was next after theirs. He must be feeling awkward for they hadn't been privately alone ever since that time in his room.
They didn't say anything and simply looked in each other's eyes. Both knew there were so many things to be discussed but no words needed to settle it. There was only the need to ascertain the feelings they knew they'd both been trying to run away from since months ago. Once it was confirmed, everything else would follow.
The only thing was how to start confirming these feelings.
Kaname knew he needed to start but he didn't want to break the companionable silence he'd been having with his mate. He was already contented just by watching the colors of the skies be reflected in silver-lavender orbs but their time was short. Their ride would soon come to a swift end.
And as if on cue, they sensed a surge of aura from behind them. Anne's presence was felt before the Ferris Wheel's rotation stopped abruptly which caused quite a commotion. A quiet announcement for calm was issued shortly.
The Vampire King smiled at his older daughter's dramatic antics and approach at obviously trying to help them have a lovely and longer time alone by stopping the ride. Coincidentally (or not), their car was happily situated at the very top which offered them the best view possible.
"I guess it's her way of saying that we should advance already." Kaname began, not intending to waste his princess' gift.
The hunter tensed just a bit because he was always been the type to be awkward at tête-à-têtes. He'd never been good with words and was bad at expressing his feelings. Knowing what was to come made him very nervous. More nervous than what he would like.
Luckily for him, the pureblood knew this. Kaname smiled at his uneasiness, marveling how even hordes of Es never made his mate falter whereas a simple conversation made him this jittery.
"Zero." He started again. "I believe it's now the time to face everything before us. I know you're well aware of what accepting your and my child means and where that put us. I know you understand this but I shall never forgive myself should you have any doubts left of my feelings for you." He intently looked into the bright lilac eyes that bellied nervousness and anticipation. "Surely, you must know now that I have long since loved you."
The hunter went very still. Though he knew it would come, Zero still blushed and was still caught off guard; Kaname expressed it all so smoothly. He was even half-expecting (or rather, wishing) a plane to crash on them or something. The way perfect moments were ruined by the most bizarre things just so he could escape the very awkward moment. But it happened without a hitch.
He wanted to say something to rebuke the confession. Despite all he had seen and the evidence the silverette was given, it was all too good, too perfect. So much so that it was somehow unbelievable to his ears. It made him very afraid to trust his words though part of him was certainly singing and sighing in relief. His feelings were now apparently answered while another part searched Kaname's eyes for any sign of dishonesty.
Zero wanted to make sure before it was too late because he just knew that he'd believe whatever this vampire said even if deception clearly reflected in his eyes later on. He knew that he'd never be able to turn back once he had given an answer. Another part of him chided him and shouted that he never stood a chance. That even now, he was completely and irrevocably ensnared by this pureblood.
"Is it that hard to believe?"
Kaname's deep voice jarred him out of his internal struggle. The hunter immediately looked up to meet the sad and sincere burgundy orbs. Eyes that were unreadable to everyone only to lay bare to him.
"Of course. Who would? When I've treated you horribly in the past." That was the only moment the vampire looked away to look at the sun that almost completely set. "It's not love at first sight and to be honest with you, I do not know when it started or how it began. How an extremely cheeky hunter," Fiery amethysts glared at him which he only answered with a smile. "managed to capture my heart when no one else did. I asked myself over and over again that very same question." There was a pause before the Vampire King turned back to face his mate to continue. "I found I didn't need to know how or when it began because everything about you makes me crazy, sometimes irritates me, enchants me and makes me ridiculously ecstatic. It's only you who made me feel, makes me breathe, only you who shook my very soul. Your every move, gaze and words seduce me every time to the point where I'm beside myself."
There was silence.
Zero gaped at him. He did not want to let words affect him but he couldn't. His heart shook with his words. He drowned inside Kaname's earnest burgundy eyes that he didn't know he held his breath. He didn't want to move lest he shatter the beautiful image in front; of Kaname wearing his heart in his sleeves.
Lilac orbs stared even more, taking in everything at once. His words and image; of dark brown locks swayed by the raging wind from outside cupping his face, wine-colored eyes dark with emotions and lips displaying a genuine smile.
The pureblood never looked so beautiful and more breathtaking before. Even with his clothes also rumpled by the wind and his hair a bit messy, he was still stunning. With the fiery color of the heaven behind him with its remaining light reflected in those carmine orbs, the creature before the hunter lost all stiff grandeur and sophistication only to be left with natural ethereal beauty.
His vampire stood up, oddly enough the cabled-car didn't shake perhaps because of the pureblood with him, and took a step towards him. "Zero, I can't promise you a completely rosy life. If you'll be with me that would mean endless challenges and struggles. I can't promise our union to be all but happiness. I'm sure there will be hurt and pain but if you're willing to face that with me as I will be willing to face all your troubles and carry your burdens then choose me. I promise to stand by your side until the end of my life."
This finally jolted the hunter. "Wait, what? Are you- are you- pro-proposing to me? Don't you dare get on your knees or I'll jump!" The silverette was incredibly agitated and only added the last note to cover his embarrassment though it was pretty evident by his blushing face. He didn't notice that it was the first time he spoke since they rode the car.
Kaname smiled at this, glad that his hunter was back with his spunk. He continued. "Well, as much as I wanted to, I'm afraid I was unprepared. I honestly didn't have any intention of doing it here and now." He stopped when he thought of something. He then nicked his index finger which filled the car of the sweet smell of his blood but was immediately carried away by the wind.
Zero, while internally grateful that he had fed just the day before so he wasn't attacked by bloodlust, frowned at his mate's action. Confused lavender orbs watched the vampire draw a small circle on his palm with his blood while muttering something under his breath and retracing the small circle over and over again. Finally, a small light appeared which made his pureblood smile.
"I will postpone putting a band around your left ring finger but I would like you to put this on." Kaname leaned down to reach for his left hand. "This is the only thing I can give you at the moment." He offered while putting on a small circular ring around the pale pinky finger.
It was a ring made of blood stone.
Earnest vermillion orbs looked at the wondrous man before him once again, his pale left hand between his. He held his gaze and continued. "I will not get down on my knees but I would still ask you to share my life all the same." The Vampire King declared before kissing the blood ring.
The silverette kept quiet for a moment, speechless. He did not know how to say 'yes' without sounding lame. God, why were words so shy to him? His lips quivered. His tongue held the words his heart had been dying to say in response to Kaname's proposal but it got stuck in his throat.
"You're asking for a world of pain." Was the most romantic thing he managed. Zero almost bit his tongue as soon as the words were out of his mouth. Why, oh, why when the heavens gave out the gift of eloquence, was he apparently asleep?
Kaname merely smiled. "I shall carry it then. If that's what it takes to make you mine then I welcome it." It was just like his hunter to say that at the best moment.
Zero looked at him only for a while before finally nodding, uncertain if it was enough to answer the pureblood's question. When Kaname saw the gesture, he made the hunter meet his eyes by holding his chin. When he saw the confirmation in those lovable pale orbs, he swooped in to seal the deal and bent down to kiss his lips.
Zero hated how he felt like a fairytale heroine and thought that he'd never forget that moment or that kiss which he believed was the sweetest one he shared with the vampire. However, he couldn't help it for he was overcame with emotions he never imagined he would ever feel towards his sworn enemy. A pale hand traveled to the side of the brunette's neck to pull him closer while the vampire steadied himself by placing both hands on the top rail of Zero's seat, simultaneously trapping his mate and pressing himself closer.
They stayed like that for a while, allowing themselves to feel the everlasting moment of when their hearts understood and accepted each other. Their hearts beat faster in perfect unison.
Zero then instinctively opened his mouth to allow his pureblood entrance when his tongue licked his lips to ask his permission. One of Kaname's hands that were on the rail immediately held his head to tangle its fingers in his silver threads when the kiss deepened and their pace quickened.
The silverette could feel them leaving the innocent moment to journey a more sensual path as the brunette tasted every corner of his mouth while his did the same. The lush rich taste of the pureblood in his tongue sent a world of pleasure in him and he felt himself lost in his lover's warmth coupled with the heavy smell of roses.
He didn't even realize that Kaname pressed himself closer by placing his knee on his seat while his other hand caressed his back, pushing his clothes up, to feel his bare skin. His own hand that was on his pureblood's neck traveled higher to grasp a handful of dark brown hair while his other hand gripped the black fabric over his back. They drew each other closer, hating even a sliver of space between, desperate to feel the other's warmth.
They were trapped in the world where there was only them and basked in the sensual wave their touch and warmth produced. Kaname wouldn't have stopped and would have gone all the way. The want to claim his hunter, who returned his ardor with equal intensity and passion, grew. He was lost in his hunter's scent, inhaling the sweet morning dew and freshly cut grass of the forest at night coupled with cream and lavender on his skin. It gave him the sure feeling that he was currently holding his peace and destruction in his hands.
They instantly forgot where they were after tasting each other's tempting lips. The new couple was only forcefully reminded when the Ferris Wheel's motion that they didn't notice already started, stopped briefly only to rotate again. It seemingly paused for a while to allow the passengers of each car to get out of their respective ride. They luckily caught themselves in time just before their turn came and only three cars were left before theirs.
The pureblood regrettably disconnected his mouth from the silverette's, but only after a quick light kiss. He moved to kiss his very flushed lover's cheek, his temple then his forehead. Afterwards, he settled his lips on top of his hunter's head, who slightly bowed to hide his blushing face on the nook of his vampire's neck, to muffle a soft groan, allowing them to even out their breaths. While the Vampire King knew that it couldn't be helped for it was hardly the place to do such things, he couldn't help but be frustrated since his advances kept on getting interrupted. He sighed and breathed in his lover's scent in an attempt to dampen his building lust though this action only tempted him further.
"I believe it's the time we head home." He implied meaningfully.
Zero merely grunted in response and willed himself to calm down. He could feel himself burn in anticipation.
Whatever, let the devil take tomorrow.
It was too late for him anyhow. His heart had already decided to live and die with the pureblood in his arms.
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