Second Chance Ranch

by Thiefoflight68

Katsuki Bakugou ended up in prison after a gang shootout. Three years later he applies for a post prison program. The job he thinks he's getting and the one fate finds for him are completely different. A chance meeting with a cute freckled face man brings him to the Midoriya Family Ranch, also known as Second Chance Ranch by the prior prisoners that have made a made a home there.

5. Food Magic

"That was a great party!" Shinsou danced around the kitchen as he finished cleaning up. "Your cake was amazing."

"I know," Mina winked as she put the rest in a huge container. "Hey, I cut a piece for Shouto, he asked to take some back to his dad."

"Yeah, Enji was bummed that he couldn't come, I guess they had an emergency with the cattle or something. Can Iz give it to him?"

"No," Mina licked the frosting off her fingers. "I think he went with his mom to go shopping?"

"Oh, yeah," looking out the window he saw Shouto head down to one of the cabins. "I see him," he cocked his head, where was he going?

Shoving the container in his hands, Mina went back to picking up the kitchen. "Get this to him quick before he leaves."

"Okay," running out the door, he jogged down the stairs.

He couldn't believe they were done with school and would be leaving for university soon. His heart ached so badly that it felt like it was being ripped from his body. The thought of his two best friends leaving was incomprehensible, it was better to ignore it until the actual day came. It was the only way to enjoy their company while he could.

Trotting across the courtyard, he saw Shouto walk into Tenya's cabin. His long legs cutting the distance easily, he shoved open the door holding up the container. "Hey Sho, I-'' He stopped short. They were kissing. Tenya and Shouto pulled apart, startled at his intrusion. "What the hell?" Shinsou took a step back, horrified. Their faces burned a bright red as they gaped at him.

"Shin," Shouto glanced awkwardly at Tenya. "I can-"

"You - You assholes!" Shinsou screamed, his stunned brain finally catching up with his mouth. "You pricks! You shits! You fuckers!" Trying to find more words, he gave up and threw the container at them. It flew wide and slammed against the back wall spraying cake everywhere. "I'm telling Iz!" He stabbed the air with his finger. "You're a fucking cheat, Shouto!" He backpedaled out of the cabin and stumbled off the porch, racing for the barn. He needed to get some air and cool off before he destroyed something. Iz had taught him to get his emotions under control with anything positive. "A ride." He mumbled, everything seemed better on the back of a horse.

"SHIN!"

Spinning, Shinsou could see Shouto running across the courtyard after him. "Go away!" He flipped him off and ran faster into the barn, sliding to a stop in front of Medusa's stall. "Don't come near me you jerk! Iz is gonna freak out when I tell him!" He continued to shout as he grabbed her bridle and slipped into her stall. She popped her head up and waited as he unwound the leather straps.

"What in the hell do you think you're doing?" Shouto stormed into the barn aisle.

"Fuck you." Shinsou snapped at him.

Shoving the stall door open, Shouto sidestepped the big mare and grabbed his arm. "Listen," he hissed.

"I'm not listening to you, prick," Shinsou wrenched himself free but in the next instant Shouto flung him against the wall and pinned him with his body. Medusa swung her haunches around, snorting as her ears flattened on her head. Maneuvering away from her back legs, Shouto wedged them both into the corner.

"You little shit," he squeezed his face, his fingers digging into his cheeks painfully. He curled his lip in disgust. "Just what the fuck do you think you're going to do? You lowlife convict, nothing but an insignificant pile of nothing."

Wrinkling his brow, Shinsou blinked. "Sho…?" His words sliced through him like a hot blade. "What…. What the hell are you saying?" He croaked trying to see his friend behind the contemptuous scowl. "I mean, we're-"

"Friends?" Sarcasm dripped from his tone. "I can't believe you seriously thought I'd have anything to do with you. Fucking psycho." Bringing his face within inches of his own, Shinsou could feel his hot breath as his voice lowered. "You made my skin crawl every time I had to deal with you."

Shinsou felt a fierce ache radiate out from his heart as tears burned. Swallowing against the bile in his throat, he seethed at him. "You fucking dick! You were just screwing with me? What…about… Iz?" He could barely take a breath. "Do you even like him?!" Squirming and kicking, Shinsou tried to get away. "Who's the pile of nothing here? You're the bastard!"

"You deliquent." Shouto caged him in with his arms. "Look at you," he sneered. "Whatever you spout, who's gonna believe it?"

Scrunching up his face, Shinsou pushed against his chest, but Shouto didn't budge. "Iz will! Iz will believe me and you know it! When he hears you've been screwing Tenya, you're both gone."

A wry smile twisted Shouto's features as he swept his gaze down his body. Leaning into his ear, he punctuated every word, "and… what… about… you?"

Flinching from his cruel tone, Shinsou shrugged uneasily. "What about me?" Shouto suddenly grabbed his belt, and with a quick jerk, flipped the buckle open with ease and ripped the button off his pants. "Hey! HEY! STOP-" Shouto's hand clapped over his mouth so hard, he bit his lip.

"Stop what?" Shouto whispered fiercely. "We all know how much you love Iz, you're obsessed. So fucking crazy that you've deluded yourself into thinking that you can blackmail me. Made up a story about Tenya and me. All so Iz will run to you. But it's not working, is it Shin? Now you're so desperate, you tried to jump me and get some dirt."

"Whdaffk," Shinsou gawked, trying to understand. Then his fingers slid into his jeans and underwear, coiling around his soft dick. Gasping he bit on the flesh of his palm.

"Shit!" Stepping back, Shouto slapped his face. Shinsou's head snapped sideways, he could feel blood welling inside his cheek. Shouto clamped his hand back over his mouth. "And today…" he continued, breathing harder. "It looks like you managed to trap me in Medusa's stall."

"Gddffffgmm," Shinsou tried to yell through his hand as panic shot like a bullet straight to his brain.

"You stripped off your jeans to make it look like we were together," Shouto shoved his pants down and ripped his shirt open, buttons flew into the straw.

Screaming, Shinsou began to tear and claw at him, his nails finding purchase on his neck, he sank them into his flesh. Shouto hissed in pain but instead of letting go, his fist rammed into his gut. Moaning, Shinsou doubled over trying to catch his breath. Shouto punched him again, this time in the ribs. Something snapped deep inside his body, and he fell to his knees, panting from the pain.

"That's it," Shouto laughed, his hand planted firmly on top his head as he held him down. "On your knees is a good place for a brat like you." Unbuckling his own pants, Shouto pulled out his dick. Shinsou balked, seeing it rigid in his hand.

"You-You're fucking hard?" He felt like he was losing his mind. What was happening?

"Not because of your ugly mug…" Shouto snickered. "But you interrupted a moment just now. I think you should apologize by sucking me off." Grabbing a fistful of his hair, Shouto slammed his head against the wall. The crack echoed in the small space.

Shinsou swore his head had split open as white spots flashed in his vision. The pain was so intense that tears spilled over and his jaw went slack.

"Perfect, that's quite the face you're making, drooling so nicely over my cock."

From somewhere above him Shinsou heard a series of clicks as Shouto jammed his cock into his mouth. He tried to move but between the jackhammering pain in his head and Shouto's iron grip in his hair, he was stuck. He could only try to scream but his dick blocked his airway, muffling it into a long sounding moan.

"Good boy," he stroked his cheek and thrust deeper into his throat. "I always wondered what you'd look like with your mouth full of something besides your shitty attitude."

"Mmmfff!" He was going to puke. His whole body heaved as he gagged.

Suddenly a loud thud echoed down the barn aisle, Medusa lunged over the stall door, nickering at something outside.

"Who's there?" Shouto called loudly, his hand gripping Shouto's hair so tightly it caused him to groan against the searing pain. "Is someone there?" He yelled louder. Casting a quick glance back at Shinsou, he frowned. "Shit," he pulled out of his mouth quickly.

Shinsou dragged in a breath, coughing as the rush of air hit his lungs. "Fucker," he choked out. "Do that again and I'll bite it off." He felt like an iron spike had been jammed down his throat.

"You crazy bastard, you probably would." Shouto swiftly tucked his wet cock back into his pants. "I should fuck you," his eyes glittered with hatred, "but I don't do mangy convicts." Holding up his phone, he showed him the picture.

Coughing, Shinsou tried to calm his breathing as he came to his senses enough to see the photo. It was a close up of him, eyes looking star struck, mouth open, sucking a dick. "That could be anyone," he shuddered, just seeing the photo reminded him of the feeling in his throat. Grabbing the wall for support, he started to get up.

"Whoa there little pony, who said I'm finished?" Shouto shoved him back down. "Look closely, I'm not that stupid."

Focusing on the picture, he saw Shouto's hand on his cheek, the ring on his finger. It was his high school graduation ring, the one he'd received as a gift just yesterday from his dad.

"See it?"

"Fuck you," Shinsou started to pull up his pants.

"I said, stop."

"I'm done."

"And I'm not," his voice dropped into a guttural growl. "Just remember you brat, when you go running to tell Iz about Tenya. All I'm gonna say is how jealous you are about Iz. That you've been stalking me and making up shitty rumors to bust up our relationship. Imagine when Iz and Inko get a load of this." Shouto shook his phone as a wicked smile cut across his face. "You're outta here Shin."

Hearing her name, Shinsou's heart began to hammer in his chest as the panic bloomed into his aching head. "You're wrong," he tried to block out his words.

Tucking the phone back in his pocket, he sighed mockingly. "I wonder wherewill she send you? Probably back to juvie, where you belong. Personally, I think they should send your nutty brain to the mental ward, but me," he snickered quietly, "an upstanding rancher's son? Iz and I will be married with his mom's blessing by the end of university, while you rot in jail."

Terror slithered up his spine. He couldn't go back.Shouto knew it was his greatest fear. He'd confided in him so many times… as friends. "I hate you," he gulped back the sobs.

"Like I give a shit. Just know that if I even hear a murmur of something, I will fuck you, in every way possible. You understand?"

Shinsou glared at him, he'd never wanted to actually kill anyone in his life… until now.

Shouto tipped his head and smirked. "I can't hear you, Shinnnny." He drew out his nickname teasingly.

"Yes, I understand." He spit into the straw, clenching his fists tightly.

"Good." Shouto pushed past Medusa and opened the stall door. "See you tomorrow night for our usual poker game with Iz." Slamming the door shut, he walked off.

Half-standing, Shinsou jerked up his pants and sank back down into the straw letting out a mewling cry. Warm air shot in his ear as Medusa's nose came searching for him. Patting her head, he tried to gulp down the fierce emotions threatening to drown him. "I can't Medusa," he sagged against her head. "If I go back, I'll die." Snorting, she agreed with him.

Shinsou sobbed, curled around Iz as the shame and guilt burned through him. "I'm so - so - sorry," he couldn't breathe. "I didn't know… that noise… you saw us, I couldn't… go back."

"Shin," Iz held him. "You didn't do anything wrong."

"I'm … scared," he panted, his words garbled by his shuddering sobs. "So scared." His life was over, there was nothing for him anymore. "Do you hate me? Don't send me away. I swear it's the truth, I didn't do anything with him." He pulled away, hugging himself. "I'll pack up," he swiped at the tears.

Iz grabbed his shoulders. "No!" He wrapped his body up in another hug, but Shinsou tensed waiting for the judgment. "Why would you leave, Shin? I told you I love you. Besides," he breathed out, "it's my fault too."

"No! No way!" Shinsou shook his head violently, pushing Iz away.

"Listen! Shin! I basically used you as bait to get Shouto." He sat back on his heels. "I'm sorry."

"You what?" Wiping the snot on his sleeve Shinsou took a few quick breaths.

"I used you Shin, I didn't know he was with Tenya or that he would do that to you," his words tumbled out. "If I'd known I would've never done that." He hung his head.

"You never wanted to be my friend?" Shinsou's face crumpled as new tears welled in his eyes.

Iz jerked his head up. "I always wanted to be your friend, Shin! It was just when Shouto got jealous, I probably paid you more attention than I should've… that's all, the rest was real! I swear."

Nodding blankly, Shinsou pushed on the wall for support and stood up, "I thought you liked me?" He felt hollow, like someone had scooped out his insides and left his body as the shell. "Wasn't I your friend? Were you just like him? Pretending?"

"No!" Iz grabbed for him but his face blanched as he gagged, falling on all fours and groaning. "I just wanted…"

"I need to get some air." Shinsou couldn't think.

"Shin, please, you're my-"

"I know, your friend," he interrupted him. "You're gonna say that you're my friend." He muttered numbly. Heart pounding, he inched along the wall. "I should," he pointed towards the window. "Before I do anything stupid, I should," he couldn't finish, racing out of the room he slammed into Katsuki standing just outside the door. The look on his face told him he'd heard everything.

"I'm sorry, I just came back, I didn't mean to hear," he backed up, standing stiffly.

"Screw you," Shinsou spit out as he past him out of the office and down the long porch.

Walking to the window, Katsuki watched as Shinsou ran for the barn. He'd come up to check on Freckles when he'd heard Shinsou crying, he'd spun around to leave but then he'd heard Shouto's name. That fucking asshole, he was ready to slug him into next week.

Suddenly, Medusa blasted out of the barn with Shinsou riding bareback. They were going so fast it took less than a few seconds for them to make the bend that led to the open pasture below.

Blowing out a long breath, he walked back to the bedroom and pushed the door open. Freckles was cleaning dishes off his bed.

"Are you okay?"

"Kacchan?" Sitting down he covered his face.

Eyeing the soup splattered on the comforter, Katsuki sat on the bed next to him and draped his arm over his shoulders.

"That must've been hard to admit."

"You heard?"

"Not on purpose."

He leaned into his body. "Now he thinks I didn't like him and that's not true." He sniffled and wiped his eyes. "My whole world just… just keeps falling apart."

"Does it?" Katsuki ran his hand over his poor hair, which was matted and greasy from being in bed for three days. "It sounds like there was only one person at fault, and a lot of victims. Shinsou will come around, once he clears his head. I doubt he could really be upset with you for long, not as much as he loves you."

"He shouldn't forgive me," he tilted his head back to look up into his eyes. Katsuki could see the sadness and hurt in those green depths. "I should've said something sooner, pushed Shouto away harder and come clean with my mom."

"Should've is a big word."

"I'm serious, Kacchan."

"I am too," Katsuki hugged him tighter. "Don't talk to me about regret and should've, would've, could've. I'm the master. I lost everything because I didn't walk away from someone a lot sooner." He thinned his lips. "You want to believe in the ones you love. Have faith in their actions. I'm alive because of him, but… my life is forever changed."

"You loved someone?"

"I did, with all my heart and soul."

"What happened to them?" His voice grew quiet.

Katsuki thumbed his freckled cheek and thought about Tomura. "I'm not sure. I think he's still living in my old neighborhood, but I cut off contact after everything that happened."

"I guess you got over him?" He peeked up from under his thick lashes.

"Wow," Katsuki shook his head. "I'm not sure I ever will." He dragged his hand through his hair. "What I had to do was get past the pain, otherwise…" he sighed. "I'd be hard pressed to ever fall in love again."

"Can you really fall in love again after loving someone so much?" He twisted his pajama top around his finger.

Katsuki laid his hand over his. "Having such a deep connection with someone when you're young can be hard to get over, but you have to at some point. Dwelling on the past is easy, but man, it's a bitch to live in regret like that until…" he stopped.

"Until?"

"Well, for me I realized I can't change the things that happened then. It hurts and makes me sick, but those decisions I made are over. If I don't move on, that regret is gonna compound. It's a vicious cycle." Freckles nodded his head a bit as he tucked himself tighter against his side. Smiling, Katsuki ruffled his matted hair. "You've done the hard part already though."

"I have?"

"You finally broke the cycle," using his finger, he tilted his head up to look into those wide green eyes that were bloodshot from crying. "You know that right?"

"I dunno, I think I just hurt everyone." he shrugged. "It's scary thinking about what's going to happen now."

"Well, yeah, it's gonna be tough, but from what I can tell, you're on the right path. I also know that the people on this ranch will do everything they can for you, I know I will." The shocked smile that spread across his face just about melted Katsuki's heart.

"You just met me though."

Laughing, Katsuki pushed back his bangs, "I know, right? This clumsy, freckled-faced man falls into my arms and all I'm thinking is, what can I do to get closer to him?" Cocking a brow, he chuckled at the blush that spread into his cheeks. "Funny, huh?" Freckles buried his head back into his side. "At least now you can get your life back on track, without that shithead ex-finance."

"Yeah." Sighing, he slumped heavily. "I'm just so tired thinking about everything."

"Then get some sleep. I'll come get you when dinner is ready."

Glancing at his bed covered in soup, Freckles frowned. "I gotta clean this up first."

Clicking his tongue, Katsuki stood and scooped him into his arms. "What the fuck kinda hero do you think I am? You nap on the couch while I clean this up."

"No! It's my mess!"

"I thought we'd established this," he squeezed him tightly. "I'm the hero." He flashed him a cocky grin.

"Kacchan!" He laughed and covered his face, hiding the blush on his cheeks. "Why do you always come to my rescue?"

"I guess it's fate… universe juice or something, who knows." Laughing he kicked open the bedroom door and headed into the living room.

Pulling at the wire that had wrapped around the tree trunk, Kiri snipped the length where it was pinched against the branch. "Damn cows," he muttered for the umpteenth time. When the girls had fled after the tree fell, they'd managed to drag half the fence line through the forest. Hanging the clippers onto his belt he started coiling the long wire around his gloved hand.

Riot whinnied loudly from where he was waiting by the pasture. Stopping, Kiri listened. The sound of a horse running echoed through the grove, then it slowed, and a voice rang out.

"Eijirou?"

It was Shin. His stomach tightened. Something must've happened if he'd raced down here. Moving quickly down the tight trail, Kiri broke through the tree line. He was sitting bareback on Medusa whose sides were heaving, a thick sweaty lather had foamed on her normally sleek coat.

"Shin?" Worry settled in his gut. "What's wrong?"

Patting Medusa, he shrugged. "Stuff."

Eyeing the horse, Kiri clenched his jaw. Whatever had set him off had to be bad, it'd been a few years since he'd done this. "Must be pretty shitty stuffto treat your horse like that." He cocked a brow at him, "know what I mean?"

"Medusa's fine," Shinsou hissed as she spun impatiently in a circle, the horse looked like she was ready to keep going. "Look at her," he bragged, "I bet she'd run across the whole valley if I let her."

"What she wants to do and what she should do are two different things." Walking to Riot, Kiri tied the wire coil to his saddle.

"Damn it Kiri, you spout shit all the time, like you're all perfect!" Shin huffed. "You're a loser like the rest of us. Fuck you!" Kicking Medusa hard, he sped off through the thick grass.

He'd anticipated his reaction and grabbing the horn of his saddle, Kiri swung his leg up and clucked to his horse at the same time. Springing forward, Riot gladly took chase, his head pushing forward as his sturdy legs chewed the distance between them easily. Medusa was the faster horse, but Kiri could see she was tired. He reckoned Shin had probably run her full speed down from the barn for her to be that sweaty. Riot closed the gap. Coming alongside them, Kiri snagged the reins and snapped them from Shin's hands. Pulling back, he slowed both horses to a stop, their hooves churning up the wet dirt.

"Kiri, you fuck!" Shin tried to get the reins back, his fingers almost closing around the leather straps.

Leaping from his horse, Kiri steadied Medusa and wrapping up a fistful of his shirt, dragged Shin off the horse.

"Let go!" He fell to the ground but jumped up, fists swinging.

Too many years of dodging his blows gave Kiri the advantage and he quickly ducked. Shin's fist actually clipped his hat, which flew into the grass, but Kiri managed to keep a hold of his shirt while avoiding his wildly swinging punches.

"Let go!" Shin screamed in frustration and clawed his hand.

Suddenly, Kiri felt him pull backwards with all his weight, like a toddler throwing a tantrum. "Alright, I will." he opened his hand, loosening his grip. Shin's backward momentum took over and he landed hard on his butt. There was a soft squishing noise as he hit the wet grass.

"You!" He gasped and then kicked his leg harmlessly into the air. "You fucker! Fuck you!"

Staring at the purple brat on the ground for a long moment, Kiri picked up his hat and dusting it off, perched it on his head. Leaping up into his saddle, he took Medusa's reins in his hand. "I guess you were trying to cool off?" He stated flatly. "I thought you were past that habit of riding like the hounds of hell-".

"Fuck you." Shin threw a clump of dirt at him, his voice thick with tears.

"Yeah, you said that already. What happened?"

Crossing his arms, Shin kicked at the dirt.

Sitting there with his lower lip jutted out, pouting like a teenager, Kiri felt like he'd stepped back in time to the years after Iz had left. "Been a while since you did this, Shin." His amethyst eyes were glittering with such animosity that made him wince. "Why didn't you radio me? I would've come up and-"

"Because," he snapped viciously. "This is nothing concerning your nosy ass."

Kiri took a deep breath. They were all beyond sore and tired from three solid days of working on the tree but that was still a poor excuse for abusing his horse. "It's my business when you treat your horse like shit. I've told you before not to run her like that-"

"She's my damn horse!" He threw another clump of dirt at him.

The muddy missile went wide, missing both himself and Riot. "Doesn't mean you can use her like that. Just 'cause you're hurting doesn't mean you have to hurt everything else around you."

Standing up, Shin frowned, twisting around to see his butt. "Look at what you did." He glared back at him pulling on his jeans.

Kiri muttered under his breath. Fucker always did try to flip the tables on him. Keeping his voice low, he narrowed his eyes. "Did you hear me?"

"Look at this," pointing to his ass, Shin growled, "now I gotta ride back with my pants all wet."

"You mean walk."

"What?"

Chewing his tongue Kiri wondered if he was about to make the right decision. Either way Shin had to learn, and tough love was the only way the bonehead ever learned. "I said walk with that wet ass, I'll see you up at the ranch." Tugging gently on Medusa's reins, he urged Riot into a trot and headed back up the fence line.

"HEY!" He could hear Shin break out in a run after them, "don't you DAREleave me out here!"

Looking over his shoulder, Kiri gave him a tight smile. "Then you stop treating everything around you like your personal punching bag." Clucking loudly, both horses broke into a gallop. Waiting until he couldn't hear Shin hollering anymore, he slowed back down to a walk and gave Medusa a scratch on her neck, cooing to her softly. "You know he loves you right?"

He was about halfway back when he noticed Medusa's head bobbing ever so slightly whenever her front left hoof hit the ground. Stopping, Kiri looked back over his shoulder. Shin was probably about thirty minutes away if he'd already started walking. More if he sat and sulked.

Dismounting he removed both horses' bridles and clipped them onto their necks. Checking Medusa's foot, he pulled out a small stone that had lodged itself in her hoof.

"Sorry girl," he patted her neck and, against his better judgment, decided to wait. Pulling out his whittling knife, he found a good stick and sat down on a stump. Grumbling, he attacked it with quick strokes, imagining the stake that he was going to make. He'd drive it into the ground and attach a leash to that bratty shithead so he couldn't get into trouble anymore. He let his anger out with every stroke of his knife until, finally, he slowed down using more precise movements.

He didn't know what had happened, but he was sure it wasn't Shin's fault. Iz breaking up with Shouto wasn't something he'd ever thought would happen, and he knew Shin's feelings for Iz might bubble up again. His heart wrenched at the thought. Trying to stop someone's desire for another person was impossible and a complete waste of time as far as he was concerned, but it didn't make it hurt less. His stroke dug too deep, and the knife caught into the wood. Wiggling the blade free, he frowned. Maybe it was time to move on, he almost had enough money for his own ranch.

Could he really leave him?

The sound of Shin's laugh rang out. Both horses jerked their heads up and watched as he strode quickly towards them. "I knew you wouldn't leave me!" He strutted up to Medusa and smirked at him.

"That didn't take too long," snapping his pocketknife closed, Kiri threw his whittling stick away, he'd pretty much destroyed it.

"Jerk," Shin rubbed his hands over Medusa's nose, she nickered and pushed into him. "If you were gonna end up waiting, why'd you make me walk at all?" He huffed.

Ignoring his attitude, Kiri pointed to her leg. "She was limping on that front hoof."

"What?!" The look of concern that crossed his face as he inspected her hoof made Kiri feel better. This was the real Shin, the one that cared deeply for the ranch animals.

Standing, he held up the pebble. "Already pulled the stone out."

"Ah, shit." Shin rubbed the back of his neck and flicked him a sheepish look. "Sorry."

"Not my hoof that hurts," Kiri walked over to Riot and slid on his bridle. Out of the corner of his eye he could see Shin cradling the black horse's head, whispering to her. Getting up on Riot, he waited until he'd loved on her long enough. "Put on her bridle and then get up behind me."

"Yeah, okay." Sliding her leather bridle back on, he took his hand and climbed up behind the saddle. "I feel like a dumbshit."

"You should." Kiri clucked at Riot and tugged on Medusa as they began to walk. He could hear him sigh as he wrapped his arms around his waist.

"Thanks," he breathed out softly. Kiri nodded but stayed quiet. He could tell from the tension in his body that he'd been right, he was dealing with something bigger than the usual drama. Suddenly Shin sighed again, louder. "Why'd you wait?"

The question caught him off guard. Looking out over the pasture Kiri puzzled on how to answer the question.

Why had he waited?

What could he say to him that wouldn't make him run for the hills? That he was a good friend? A respected work companion? He watched as the sun dipped low into the hills, casting long shadows across the pasture. Kiri's mind drifted, like always, to the kaleidoscope of Shin that lived in his mind. An endlessly changing spectrum of light, color and life. How could he find the words to tell him? More importantly, he looked down at his arm looped around waist, would he ever be able to accept those words? Thinning his lips, he knew that the simple truth always worked best. "Because, no matter how much you pitch your fits, I can't just leave you. Especially when you're hurting, that kills me."

"It does?"

"Yeah, Shin, it sure does."

He pressed his forehead firmly into his back and after a few minutes, Kiri could hear the whimpering sobs that wrenched from him. The sound crushed him under the heavy misery of knowing the one you love is struggling. Pulling off his glove, Kiri laid his arm over Shin's and squeezed his hand, lacing their fingers together. He let Riot set the pace and waited for him to get it all out.

They'd reached the top of the south pasture before Shin finally quieted, by then he'd pulled himself closer, his cheek pressed flat against his back, his arms now clinging to him tightly.

Life was funny, Kiri mused as they passed the calving barn. He'd ridden this stretch of pasture with Shin a thousand times over the years, but they all blurred together. This was the only time he'd ever truly remember. The breath on his back, his tears soaking his shirt, arms around him. He wished they were riding out to the ridge, just the two of them, and not back to the ranch.

As if reading his mind Riot slowed.

"I can't…" Shin hesitated.

Stopping the horses, Kiri glanced over his shoulder to the man plastered to him. "Can't what?"

Shin looked up, his gorgeous eyes now red rimmed and puffy. "I don't wanna go back yet."

"Not even to your own cabin?"

He shook his head glumly.

Peering up at the main barn, Kiri tried to think of something. It was too late to go anywhere, but like Shin, he didn't want to be with everyone tonight either.

Was he wrong for not wanting this to end?

One of the cows in the pasture let out a long cry and another one answered in a deep vibrating timbre. Swinging around he could just see the stacks of wood that they'd cut from the felled tree. "You know," he looked out over the herd, "we still need to round up those mamas and babies that escaped the other night. I heard from Ochako they ended up at Snipe's place, why not wrangle them up now?"

"Really?" Shin squeezed him in desperate hope.

"Of course," Kiri urged Riot up towards the barn. "It's not that far and the path is easy to follow, even in the dark. You can't take Medusa though, her hoof is aggravated. Take the new mare, the one that Iz bought. I'll let Sero know, and we can head out right away."

"Are you sure?" He whispered. "I feel bad."

"We gotta get the herd anyway." Kiri shrugged. "We'll camp at Snipe's place tonight and bring 'em all back tomorrow. Is that a long enough time?"

Shin squeezed him tighter, and he could feel him nod his head roughly. "Yeah," he took a deep breath, "thanks Kiri."

"Yep." Clucking at Riot, he pushed him into a trot, "I'll drop you at the horse barn so you can take care of Medusa and tack up the new mare. I'll get some food and gear from our cabins."

"Okay, just be sure to get my favorite shirt and jeans, you know which ones?"

"Yeah, Shin," Kiri laughed self-consciously, "I know."

Of course he knew.

"Smells good," Freckles sat down heavily onto the kitchen chair and scooted up to the table.

"I said I'd call you when it was ready," Katsuki set down the salad he'd made and grabbed a mug off the counter. "Here, I brewed some nasty ass tea I found in the cupboard." Freckles took it and sniffed at the murky brown water, his nose wrinkled in disgust. Laughing, Katsuki handed him the glass jar of tea leaves. "It's marked 'medicine for colds'?"

"My mom always makes this when we're sick," he shuddered and reached across the table for the pot of honey. "This will make it drinkable." Static on the radio cut through the kitchen with three long distinctive beeps.

Picking up the walkie talkie, Katsuki hit the button. "Yeah?" He was getting used to the others chatting over the radio now. To distinguish each other they used a series of sounds based on who they needed. Usually, he only heard Kiri or Sero's codes, so he was surprised to hear his own.

"Sero here, looks like Kiri and Shin are going after the escaped cattle and will stay over at Snipe's place tonight. It's just us for dinner, on my way up right now."

Setting down the radio, Katsuki clicked his tongue. Maybe Shinsou was angrier than he thought? He glanced at Freckles, who was staring into his mug. "I was wondering how long before they went after the cows. Who is Snipe?"

Freckles just hunched over his tea and blew on it while chewing his lip viciously. Not getting a response, Katsuki took the plate of steaks out to the back porch and opened the lid to the BBQ. Choosing the best three, he laid the meat on the grill and watched Freckles through the screen. He'd buried his head in his arms on the table. Closing the lid and setting his timer, he went back into the kitchen to pull out the potatoes trying to think of what to say. "It's probably better if they're heading out, give him time to cool off." Green eyes rolled in his direction.

"Yeah… I'm actually kinda relieved," he looked guilty for saying it but Katsuki could see he was too exhausted to check his words.

"I bet he knows that."

"Ugh," he pushed his tea mug across the table with his finger. "That makes it worse though."

The kitchen door swung open as Sero came in and pulled off his hat, hanging it on the peg. "Good to see you up, Bossman," he walked around to thump him lightly on the back before going to wash up. "Easy cleanup with just three of us tonight." Sero laughed as he went to grab dishes and set the table. "Remember when there'd be so many mouths, we always had to pull out the extra chairs from your mom's… I mean your office." Pulling out three beers he set them on the table. "Are you feeling better?"

"A bit, yeah," Freckles pushed the beer away. "Tea is good for me."

Sero glanced at Katsuki and raised the beer. "Want one?"

"Yeah, sounds good."

"It does," standing at the window Sero opened his beer. Following his gaze Katsuki could see the sun had almost set.

"Kiri and Shin are going to Snipe's place?" Freckles finally lifted his head.

"Huh?" Sero seemed to snap out of his thoughts and sat down. "Yeah, it's too late to go and I told them no, but Kiri made a fuss about the cattle being gone too long."

"Oh." He started to fidget with his tea.

Sero looked between them, his dark eyes narrowing. Katsuki could see he was working through something. Suddenly his gaze swept back to Freckles. "Have you talked to Shin?"

If possible, his lower lip stuck out further.

"Okayyy," Sero let the word roll off his tongue. "I think I'm understanding Kiri's demand to leave tonight." He tapped his beer absent-mindedly. "I'm surprised he told him." He said it more to himself than them.

"Told him?" Freckles cast a worried look at Katsuki. "What do you mean?"

"Shin," Sero thinned his lips. "I didn't think he would mention the tangle with Shouto yesterday to Kiri."

Jerking up on his elbows, Freckles almost tipped over his tea. "What tangle?"

"Mmmm," Sero stared at the beer. "Not sure if it's my story to tell." He rubbed his neck. "The more people in a problem just mucks it up."

"Geez!" Freckles nearly jumped across the table at him. "Don't drop a bomb like that and then not tell me!"

Nodding, Sero lifted his brows, "that's fair."

"Hang on," Katsuki could smell the steaks, and he wanted to be there for Freckles if it was bad news. He looked like a puff of wind could knock him over at this point. Running out, he flipped the meat quickly and came back inside.

Sero eyed him. "Is it okay if I say this in front of him?" Then he actually blushed. "I think it has to do with stuff that happened a long time ago."

"If it's…" Freckles frowned. "He already knows."

"Oh," Sero took a long drink and wiped his mouth. "Well, then I guess it's nothing new." He shrugged and started his story. "We were all working on the tree when I came up to get Winnie. There's that pack of coyotes killing babies and Kiri swore he saw them. I'd forgotten to tie her on my saddle this morning. I'd radioed up to Shin, but he didn't answer. When I came up, I saw Shouto's truck parked in the courtyard and Shin was sitting on the staircase looking like he was ready to kill somebody." Pausing, he glanced at them both.

"He was outside alone. Without Shouto?"

"Yeah, but after I came out of my cabin, they were standing at the bottom of the stairs together." He drummed his fingers slowly on the table.

"Sorry, hold on," Katsuki interrupted to race out to the porch and pull off the steaks. Giving Sero an awkward smile, he set the plate on the table and sat down. "Didn't want them to burn."

"It's good."

"What happened?" Freckles gritted out, he was trying to sound brave, but he was clearly terrified by the conversation. His eyes were owl-wide and his face stark white.

"Well, Shin was screaming at him." Sero glanced back out the window as if seeing them. "He was calling him a cheat, a liar and, uh… a few other choice words. I figured he was just angry 'cause of how much he likes you, but then I heard Todoroki." His blush turned redder.

"What… what did he say?" Freckles stopped breathing. Reaching over, Katsuki patted his hand. He flicked a grateful look at him and then sucked in a deep breath.

If Sero noticed the gesture, he didn't say anything. "Shouto didn't see me, he was facing Shin." Sero cleared his throat, his voice dropping low, "he said that Shin was a no-good crazy convict that deserved to be, um…" he paused, his face was so red now he looked like a beet. Katsuki wasn't sure if he was blushing or furious. "Well, he said that Shin deserved to be fucked and that he should've done it a long time ago."

Katsuki could see that at this point Sero was furious. Clicking his tongue, he agreed with him. "That prick."

"That wasn't all," Sero frowned. "Shouto was pointing to his phone and telling Shin that he still had some picture of him sucking his…" He took a deep breath. "Sucking his cock. Something about proof that he'd been the one coming on to him." Sero grew quieter. "Shin went white as a ghost, it's been a long time since I've seen him like that, you know?"

"Poor Shin," Freckles rubbed his face. "No wonder he was so freaked out. Shouto forced him and then threatened him."

Sero's dark eyes glittered dangerously. "I didn't hear that part of the story."

"Well, that's why they're gone. He told me and… shit." Freckles looked like he was going to cry. "At least tell me he didn't hit him, not that I'd blame him."

Sero's face softened and a sly smile cut across his face. "Nope, Shouto remembered he needed to get home."

"He…he did?" Freckles blinked in surprise. "Why? I mean he usually acts like he owns the place."

Smiling, Sero bit his lip. "It turns out Winnie is great at getting rid of all kinds of varmints."

"Sero!" He gasped. "Did you pull a gun on him?!" He was almost shrieking.

Chuckling, Sero held up his hand. "Hold on Bossman, do you think I'm that stupid to mess with him like that?" He shook his head. "All I did was walk by and say hi on my way back down to the south pasture. I can't help it if he's scared of me."

Freckles blew out a long breath. "More like your gun! Shit, why didn't you tell me? Shouto is gonna go nuts!"

"You've been passed out Iz, this is the first chance I've had to say anything."

"Screw Shouto," Katsuki put a steak on each of their plates. "If anything, he needs to crawl over here and beg for forgiveness from both of you." He cut into the tender meat that was cooked perfectly. He gave Freckles a long look as he forked the large piece he'd cut into his mouth. Grumbling about assholes and idiots, the flavor hit his taste buds, and he stopped, looking at his plate, his eyes growing wide. Chewing faster, he swallowed his meat practically whole. "What the hell is this?" He pointed at the thick steak on his plate.

Cutting into his beef, Sero popped a piece in his mouth and after a few chews moaned loudly. "Oh Iz, he got into the back freezer."

"He did?!" Slicing a piece off his steak excitedly, Freckles popped a piece in his mouth and closed his eyes. "Oh, wow. Still the best."

"Wait, is this something I shouldn't have cooked?" Katsuki worried for a brief second that he'd gotten into the wrong food. Both just laughed though, their eyes practically rolling back into their heads. Sighing in relief, he cut off another piece, relishing the intense flavor.

"This is our own private cattle, just a small herd we keep for ourselves." Sero talked between bites. "These babies graze on the most amazing grass in the whole world, we call it Ridge Valley, because it's between the ridge and some of the bigger mountains. Near impossible to get there, but it sits on top of the main reservoir."

"This is incredible," Katsuki wouldn't have been surprised if he got a hard-on. This meat was beyond anything he'd ever eaten.

"I know," Freckles grinned while chewing.

"When I was doing my cooking class, we did a whole section on beef. The warden ordered us some good steaks to make for him." Katsuki stuffed another piece in his mouth and chewed slowly, the juices filling his mouth with a sweet earthiness. Finally swallowing he sighed, "that wasn't even close to this flavor."

"That's because you bought grass-fed or grass-finished, both are very expensive." Freckles cut another piece and held it up for inspection. "Most of the cattle that graze in this district have that certification."

"Right, that was it," Katsuki nodded, "grass-finished. That was the best money could buy."

"Nope!" Sero laughed, "you missed one and that's what's on your plate."

Staring at the steak that looked like any other, Katsuki narrowed his eyes, "and what isthis?"

"We call it grass-fattened."

"Fattened? Is that different, really?" Katsuki took another bite, the flavor was so powerful, he wanted to just close his eyes and let the meat melt in his mouth.

"What do you think?"

"Yeah, it's fucking different, as in better." Smiling, he poked at the beef with his fork watching the juices flow out. Not wanting to miss a single drop, he smashed his potato across his entire plate.

"It's our best kept secret," Sero winked. "If anyone knew about this, they'd gobble up our little stash in there," he thumbed to the back room.

"I can imagine," Katsuki studied the steak. "I gotta know, what's grass-fattened?"

"Well, most of the cattle around here are taken to market by the age of three, but not our own herd. We're just moving them from our local grass to Ridge Valley at that age."

"What's so special about that place?"

"Not sure what the magic is there," Sero sighed and took a drink of his beer. "It's probably because it's an old volcano. The grass is so dense in nutrients and minerals that the cattle get fat from grazing, but it takes another two years."

"Too bad that place is so small. If you could get more up there, it'd be worth a lot. I'd pay a pretty penny for steak like this one."

"Oh, it's not small, it's huge." Sero spread out his arms laughing. "The problem is the ridge that runs from one side to the other connects to the mountains. Driving cattle into there is almost impossible and then, we can't get back in there to keep an eye on them. We kinda have to hope they do okay, which is why we only take a few. Losing a large herd would be costly. You can climb up to the top of the ridge and from that perspective you can see the whole crater of the old volcano, but it's hard to see the cattle from up there."

Freckles smiled wistfully. "When we take the cattle or pick 'em up, we like to camp for a few days by the lake. The whole valley is like that book, Land Before Time. I feel like a few dinosaurs might pop out of the trees or something." The look on his face was the true magic. Katsuki paused in his eating to watch him.

Food can change a person's perspective with one bite.

That's what the chef he'd met had told him. Seeing both their faces flushed with a reverent ecstasy as they ate, Katsuki finally understood what he'd meant. He didn't want this moment to end. "I, uh, have two more steaks." Bouncing from his chair, he grabbed the plate with the other steaks he hadn't cooked. "Do we want to save these for Kiri and Shinsou, or um, maybe we should just cook them now?"

"Cook them now!" They called out laughing as he darted outside to restart the BBQ. Once the flame was hot, he put them on the grill. Coming back in, he heard the tail-end of Sero's question.

"...acted so cold towards Shin when you came back from university? Did you think something was happening between them?"

Katsuki wanted to hit him upside the head as soon as he saw Freckles drop his fork, his face going pale again.

"Well, when I saw them," Freckles shifted uncomfortably in his chair. "I thought they were fooling around. Now I know it was Shouto forcing him," covering his face he heaved a sigh. "Man, Sero, I feel like a real jerk."

"Way I figure it, Shouto was the jerk."

"No, no… you know what I mean."

Sero lifted his head, dark eyes focused on him. "Actually, Iz, I don't."

Katsuki smiled to himself. Okay, maybe he'd settle for a light whack to his head instead. He appreciated that he was so direct, maybe he could help Freckles let go of some of his guilt.

"I used him, Sero! I judged him and then kept him at arm's length." He settled his head in his hands. "Some stupid friend I turned out to be."

"How is that not Shouto's fault?" Sero quipped. The kitchen grew quiet as the two men looked at each other. Stepping back out, Katsuki quickly flipped the steaks straining to hear what they were saying. Sero finally spoke up again. "He knew how much you liked him and as soon as a rival came around, he decided to date you. Then he assaults your friend and black mails him so that he's stuck without anyone in his corner."

It was hard to see him through the screen, but Freckles seemed to be struggling with what to say. "I was in his corner! We were friends, if he would've… I mean… he should've at least said something."

Pulling off the steaks, Katsuki came back inside and set the plate down on the table. They grew quiet again while he sliced the meat up.

Sero's face was hard, so unlike his usual calm demeanor. Forking a piece of steak onto his plate, he leaned forward. "Okay, Iz, what would you do if someone forced you to do something against your will like that?"

"I.. I'd freak out, I'd go to…," Freckles stopped and gasped.

"You get it?" Sero glanced at Katsuki, a look of camaraderie in his eyes. " You'dtell the authorities or people around you. Exactly what Shin couldn't do considering he just arrived from juvie. Imagine what would've happened if he said anything, even to you."

"Oh…" Freckles' voice strangled around the words. "Poor Shin." His eyes filled with tears as he covered his mouth.

"Shouto knew Shinsou was in a jam," Katsuki glared down at his plate. The more he thought about it, the angrier he was getting. "Makes it doubly worse. Even if you were friends, he had to worry that you wouldn't believe him or…."

"Even if I did," Freckles whispered, closing his eyes, a tear slipped down his cheek. "My mom might've sent him back."

"Yeah, even in a safe place like this, you still walk with the cloud of your past hanging over your head." Sero stabbed another piece of meat. "I hope you see that you and Shin are the victims here." He paused and smiled tightly. "I'm glad you got out of that marriage nonsense."

"Yeah, I suppose. I always thought it was mutual, or that maybe Shin was trying to take Shouto from me," he blushed. "I was so jealous for a while, which was even more stupid." Freckles pushed his plate away.

Katsuki frowned, the food magic had been trumped, he wanted to hit Sero again.

Patting his stomach, the same man smiled hopefully at him. "Wouldn't have any dessert, would you?"

Scowling, Katsuki pointed to the far cabinet. "Some cookies that I made waiting for you guys the night the tree went down, nothing fancy, just snickerdoodles."

"Snicker who?" Leaping from his chair, Sero dug into the cabinet and finding the jar he took a huge bite of one the cookies, he moaned and sat back down clutching it to his chest. "Really," he grinned, "think about marrying me."

Freckles coughed, making a funny noise. Katsuki could see he was pouting. Smirking, he teased back, "If I did marry you, would we stay here?"

Freckles bloomed a bright shade of red. "No one's getting married if I'm not," he sulked quietly.

"Oh no, Iz," Sero teased. "I need a good cook in my life. Plus, you've had all the fun lately, maybe it's my turn."

"Fun?" Freckles gawked at him. "Do you think any of this-"

"How about no one gets anything but cookies," Katsuki squashed the conversation.

Chewing, Sero brushed the crumbs from his shirt. "Alright." He sighed loudly. "The good news is Kiri is with Shin right now and that's best. Poor kid is probably hurting like hell but I'm sure he'll realize that it wasn't your fault and come around."

"Geez Sero, your change in subjects is giving me whiplash," Freckles laughed sarcastically.

"Sorry," he grinned. "You know me."

"Yeah," standing Freckles stretched and yawned loudly. "All that food got me." He smiled softly.

Seeing that sweet face, Katsuki finally understood that stupid cliche about how someone's smile could make it feel like the sun had come out.

"That was a really good dinner, thanks Kacchan. I'm going to crash, I feel like I could sleep forever." He yawned again.

"Night boss."

"Goodnight," Katsuki wanted to follow him and make sure he was comfortable, but he was clearly better. The excuse of him being sick was gone now.

Pulling out another cookie, Sero pointed to the table. "I'll clean up, you go get some sleep. I'll need you to ride the fence line with me to the far pasture tomorrow."

"Ride? The fence line?" Katsuki's jaw dropped. "On a horse?" Panic seized him.

"Pffft," Sero laughed so hard he almost choked on his cookie. "I'm gonna let you ride that big four wheeled monster of yours, don't worry. Iz can take you out on your first trail ride, I won't steal that from him," his eyes glittered merrily. "Considering he's been teaching you to ride." Winking, he started stacking the plates.

Sagging in relief, Katsuki nodded. "Oh, yeah, the quad would be better." Sliding back his chair, he looked out the window to the dark courtyard. "I'll go check and make sure it's all gassed up then." Snagging a cookie from the jar, he threw on his jacket and headed out of the kitchen.

Standing at the sink Sero let out a long breath and rolled out his shoulders. He'd teased Iz about pulling a gun on Shouto, but he really did want to kill him. Now, those dark thoughts had slithered loose, even after all these years. Prison had been his grave and when he was released, he swore never to step foot in there willingly again, he'd rather just up and die.

Filling the sink with hot water, he scrubbed the dishes trying to block out the memories. Stacking them in the drainer, he wiped everything down and turned off the light.

Grabbing his hat, he spun it in his hands, no use tonight, those nightmares were out and only one thing ever shut them down. Settling his hat on his head he frowned. With Kiri and Shin over there, he'd have to be careful, but tonight was going to be bad otherwise. It was definitely worth the risk.

Pulling out his phone he sent a quick text and headed to his truck.

The muted grey twilight was fading fast, Kiri reined in Riot and dug into his pack for a light. Flipping on the high-powered flashlight, he turned to see Shin waiting quietly behind him. He'd gone silent after they'd left the ranch. Usually, he would talk non-stop about whatever random thoughts ran through his head. Tonight though, his face was tight, his lips pulled down in a pensive frown. This darker side of Shin always gave him chills. "You should get your flashlight out too." He waved his light above his head.

Shin nodded and pulled it off the top of his pack. He pointed the bright light into the sky waiting for him to keep going.

Seeing he wasn't going to say anything, Kiri lit up the trail and urged Riot forward. They weren't very far away but they still had to set up camp. Shining his light further down the trail, he could see the last line of thick brush that marked Snipe's place. Coming out of the trees, the whole pasture was glowing from the moonlight. Kiri looked up to see it was almost full tonight. That would make setting up camp a hell of a lot easier.

Moving into the main pasture, there were black shapes standing in clumps throughout the field. Shining his light, he lit up the beautiful chestnut coats of the Midoriya cattle. "Safe and snug," he laughed quietly. Dismounting, he began to search for a patch of soft dirt that was dry. After a few minutes, he found a decent spot. Stomping his foot, he looked up at Shin and sucked in a sharp breath.

The mare he'd borrowed from Iz was glowing an unnatural blue grey in the bright moonlight. In fact, they looked eerily like a ghost horse and phantom rider. If his hat was off, Kiri wondered if his purple hair would be gleaming too. Shin tipped his head waiting for him to say something. "This is probably a good spot." He rushed out realizing he'd been staring. Quickly he began to unload his gear. Wordless Shin dismounted and joined him.

They started working together in the strange monochrome light of the moon. Kiri's nerves were strung so tight though, he could barely focus on anything. He felt stupid, hell they'd set up camp together so many times they were like an old married couple, knowing exactly what the other was going to do next.

So, why did tonight feel like this was the first time?

Kiri was sure he'd never been this aware of Shin before. Normally he was doing his chores and thinking about getting some shuteye. Tonight though, his senses were honed in on him, like a sniper following his target.

The small grunts he made as he brushed down his mare.

The sound of his breathing as he collected stray kindling.

The pop of his knees as he squatted down to set the stones for the campfire.

Each sound seemed to ripple down Kiri's spine in some strange erotic melody.

"You okay?"

Kiri blinked, realizing Shin was looking at him funny. He could feel a swift heat climb into his cheeks as he fumbled with the handful of twigs he'd collected. "Y-Yeah, why?"

"Because," he snorted, "I already started the fire. We need larger pieces." He arched his brow and pointed to Kiri's hands.

"Oh." He'd been so busy thinking about Shin, he'd completely forgotten what he was doing. "Right." Dropping everything, he spun on his heel and walked straight into the thick brush. The sound of Shin's quiet laughter followed him and caused a rush of blood to flood his groin. The need for him was so unbearable, it was shocking. He'd never had such a raw reaction to him.

Laying a hand on the rough bark of the tree, Kiri pressed hard so that the coarse wood bit into his palm. While only momentary, it was a distraction from his raging desire, nonetheless. Waiting a few minutes, he finally started to slowly collect himself as he searched for pieces of broken branches. Taking a deep breath, he felt better, at least his lower half had settled down. As he stacked the thick branches on his arms, he realized he'd lost track of Shin. He could only hear the snap of the campfire and smell the smoke that hung in the air. Going back through the brush, he'd started across the open field when he saw him.

He froze as his blood slammed back into every wrong part of his body.

Shin was by the campfire with his back to him, bent over at the waist, unpacking his bedroll. Even in the muted gray light Kiri was able to follow his long legs upwards to the soft curve of his ass, which was held beautifully by his tight jeans. Staring, his mouth went dry, he couldn't move or think.

"What's with you tonight?" Shin was looking at him from between his legs as he fluffed his blanket. His face was lit up by the fire so he could just see his smile. "Put the damn wood on the fire before it goes out and we have to get more kindling."

The throbbing in his body accelerated.

It was that smile. The one he'd fallen in love with so long ago. Achingly playful but with a sadness that always seemed to hang on Shin. Then the smile faded, and he stood, spinning around, his eyes narrowed.

Shit.Kiri looked away quickly, but he could already see Shin's questioning look. "I - I found some good wood," his words felt stuck in his throat. Now it was Shin who was watching him closely. Dropping the wood, he adjusted his pants and kept himself busy with putting the branches onto the growing fire.

"Kiri?" Shin sat down onto his bedroll, trying to see his face better.

"Yeah?" He didn't look up… he couldn't.

"What were you looking at just now?"

The question was simple and direct, the way they always were with each other. Any other time Kiri would've appreciated that, but not tonight. "Nothing really," he could hear the lie in his own voice as he shrugged.

"Didn't seem like it to me." Shin leaned back on his hands, still studying him. "If I had to guess… I'd say you were checking out my ass." He kicked at the dirt with his boot.

Fuck, he'd seen him. A feeling of dread sunk into his gut, but… there was also a strange sense of excitement starting to take shape. He slowly added another log, waiting until the fire was steadily eating at the offered wood. Sitting back, he stared into the flames.

Shin sighed loudly. "Kiriiiiii," he dragged out his name teasingly and scooted closer to the fire ring. Dipping his head down, he tried to look into his eyes. "Since when am I the one trying to get you to answer a question?" His smile grew a little more mischievous.

"Are.. um, are you hungry?" Kiri started digging into the pack. Fuck…He knew he was being a-

"You chicken shit." Shin finished his thought perfectly.

Kiri stopped, feeling a blush burn his cheeks.

Sighing loudly again, Shin snapped his fingers. "Fine. What're we eating?"

"There wasn't much in our cabins." He tried to sound normal, but he'd stumbled into unfamiliar territory and had no clue how to act. At least Shin's strange quiet was finally over and he seemed to be letting him off the hook, at least for now. But he knew, this was far from over.

What the fuck was he going to do?

"Well?" Shin pressed impatiently but Kiri knew he was still teasing him.

"Pasta and beans." He squeaked unintentionally and held up the food.

Shin rolled his eyes playfully. "Geez, that's all you got us? I'm hungry!" His stomach grumbled loudly as if to emphasize his words.

"There's canned chicken and tortillas too." Kiri pulled out their mess kits, managing to see him from just under the brim of his hat. Shin was watching him, clearly trying to get a read on him. Change of subject was always a good tactic in Kiri's book. Anything to give him space to decide what to do next. He glanced up and tried to keep his face neutral. "I guess you're feeling better?" Shin's face fell and the playfulness vanished, he pulled his knees into his body and frowned at him.

"No."

Kiri instantly felt bad for reminding him of why they were out here. Even if he was cornered didn't mean he had to hurt Shin too. Weren't those his own words earlier? "Sorry." He set out the food. "I don't suppose you'll tell me what happened?"

"Just make the fucking food." Shin leaned his forehead against his knees.

Pouring water into the pan, Kiri opened the can of chicken and mixed in a few of the spices he'd brought. Once the water started boiling, he threw in the pasta. Peeking up, he could see Shin had retreated again, his stomach clenched in guilt. After he'd cooked the pasta, he filled both of their mess kits. "It's finished." He held up his bowl, but Shin didn't move. His head still pressed firmly into his knees. "Shin?"

"Fuck you." His voice was thick.

He was crying.

Setting the bowls on the rocks, he jumped up and sat down next to him. Taking off his hat, he leaned into him and got as close as he dared to his face. "You were right," he said quietly. "I waschecking out your ass." The confession was simple and had the effect he'd hoped, Shin looked up at him. His teary eyes were round with shock.

"R-Really?" He stammered.

"Yeah," Kiri let out a long sigh. "Really."

Shin propped his chin on his knees, his eyes narrowing. He sniffled a bit and then started to say something.

"Wait," Kiri held up his hand, stopping him. "Lemme finish… I like you Shin. In fact, I have for a long time. Pretty much since I met you." The words felt good to say, making him more relaxed.

Shin's eyes grew wide again. "You? Like me?" His voice was incredulous, as if the thought was beyond preposterous.

"That's what I said," Kiri nodded. Reaching out slowly, he plucked his hat off his head and brushed his hand through his thick hair, he didn't react but watched him curiously. "I'm guessing you don't feel the same about me but…" Kiri paused hoping he would argue with him.

"Never thought about it honestly." Shin replied, chewing on his lip thoughtfully as if thinking it over. "I mean… you're always having to deal with my shit. Figured you hated it."

Kiri let out a strangled laugh. "I did it because… well, because."

Shin tucked his chin against his knees and gave him a small smile. "Say it again."

"Are you messing with me?"

"No."

"Okay." Kiri sucked in a deep breath. "I like you, Shin."

The fire crackled loudly, and a branch split in half, falling into the pile. A shower of sparks burst from the flames then slowing, they lazily trailed upwards with the smoke.

"Now what?" Shin turned to watch the glowing embers float in the air.

Unconsciously Kiri let out a laugh. What was next?"How about we eat our dinner?" He grabbed their bowls and held them up. Shin took one and sniffed at the lump of chicken and pasta. Taking a bite, Kiri realized how hungry he was and wolfed it all down, licking his fork after eating the last piece. He noticed Shin was stirring the food and taking tiny bites. "You need to eat."

"I know but… I'm trying to decide."

"Decide what?" Kiri leaned forward to put his bowl back on one of the rocks.

"If I like you or not."

The bowl slipped from his fingers causing the metal to clang on the rock and fall into the burning wood. "Shit!" Grasping the edge with his fingers, he jerked it out of the blazing heat and dropped it into the dirt. "Ow!" He hissed.

"Idiot," Shin chuckled and grabbed his hand, inspecting the red mark. "I think you'll live." Suddenly, he kissed the spot. "There," he smiled again, the playful smirk was back, matching his sparkling eyes. "That should make it better." Picking up his bowl he began to eat again.

"That wasn't fair." Kiri pouted slightly and put some hot water into his bowl.

"I know," Shin snorted softly and finished his dinner, handing him his empty dish. Kiri poured the last of the water into the pan and set it all aside. Shin nudged him with his boot. "Did you at least bring dessert?"

Looking back over his shoulder Kiri gave him a sly smile. "What do you think?"

Shin laughed and blushed. "Yes," he grinned, "you always bring something for me." He furrowed his brow and then looked seemingly shocked again. "Shit, Kiri! Do you really like me?"

"Uh," Kiri blinked. "Isn't that what I said?"

"Well saying is one thing," Shin laughed, this time more self-consciously, his blush growing redder. Kiri felt heat rush into his own cheeks, they probably both matched perfectly. Thankfully it was only the two of them to see each other.

Snagging the plastic bag with the stuff he'd packed, Kiri tossed it in front of Shin, who leaned over his knees and peered inside. Reaching in, he moved a few things around, then smiled wide when he saw it.

Happiness at seeing that smile was an understatement. Kiri always made sure he kept Shin's favorite candy on hand and in the past when he'd give it to him, he'd just grab it and eat it, clueless to the gesture… but now… fuck… now he understood.

"Thanks." Shin pulled out the candy bar and ripped open the wrapper. Taking a bite, he moaned softly as he chewed, the corners of his mouth lifting in a smile of appreciation.

Sliding back to the bedroll Kiri sat next to him again, trying to will his heart to slow down. Shin swallowed and began to play with a piece of the wrapper that hung loose.

"Thanks."

Kiri bumped him lightly. "You already said that."

"No," he turned to look at him. The firelight lit up his eyes that were shining brightly with unshed tears again. "Not just for the candy. For everything. You saved me Kiri. I can't understand why anyone would like me, especially you, but-"

"Shin." Kiri covered his mouth with his hand and then, impulsively, pressed his mouth on the other side. Their lips were separated only by his fingers. Pulling back, he kept his hand on him. "Next time you talk like that I'll shut that mouth up withoutmy hand in the way." He kissed the back of his hand again to prove his point and cocked a brow. Releasing him, he noticed a bit of chocolate at the corner of his lip and gently wiped it away.

Shin looked rattled. Then very slowly he set his candy bar on his pillow and grasped both of Kiri's cheeks in his hands and planted a kiss on his lips.

Kissing! They were kissing!

Kiri was sure that whatever engine pumped his heart had gone into overdrive, pushing the limits of beats per minute. His lips were soft as they moved over his, but his movements were awkward, almost robotic.

Pulling back, Shin tapped his lips with his fingers and frowned. "Not that great," he mused thoughtfully.

What the fuck?

Shrugging, he went to pick up his candy bar, but Kiri hauled him into his lap.

"Kiri!" He yelled as he flailed, fighting him.

"Stop." The word was soft but commanding and Shin quieted immediately. "That wasn't a kiss." Kiri rasped gruffly and nuzzled his lips along his cheek enjoying the feeling of his softness. When he thought he'd explode from desire, Kiri kissed him again. Tenderly at first, drawing his lush lips into his mouth. His hand dove into his hair, the thick strands catching his fingers as he cradled his head. Shin sat stiffly, but as he kissed him, he softened. His lips began to kiss back, this time more naturally and then, more fervently.

Kiri was desperate for more.

"Open your mouth, Shin." He tugged on his chin with his thumb until he hesitantly did as he asked. Taking his time Kiri licked his lips, tasting the chocolate still lingering on his skin. Shin was trembling as he finally slipped his tongue into his mouth, following the sweetness of the candy. He didn't hold back but tasted every part of him, his blood slamming through his body uncontrollably. He rained kisses across his nose, chin and lips, returning to delve into his sweet mouth. Shin whimpered softly completely lost in the moment.

Kiri almost came undone.

Pulling back to see his face, he was glad to see his lips slightly swollen and his eyes a bit unfocused. "Better?" He chuckled softly and swept his thick hair off his forehead, planting a final kiss there. Shin was quiet but wiggled to sit up and slid off his lap. "Shin?" Kiri leaned over his shoulder and kissed his cheek.

Had he gone too fast?

Shin peeked at him from under hooded eyes. A hot blush stained his entire face, clashing with his beautiful purple hair. "That…" Shin fidgeted with his jacket. "That was nice," he breathed out quietly.

"Just nice?" Kiri kissed his cheek.

"No." His fingers clasped and unclasped around the button of his shirt. "I liked it… a lot," Shin admitted quietly. "But, why me?"

Kiri pulled him back into his lap and settled him in between his legs, cradling him from behind. "You bewitch me. I never had a chance against you." Shin snorted derisively. "Seriously," Kiri argued. "Remember that day? I came back with Iz from the parole office, scared as shit."

"You?" Shin sounded surprised.

"Yeah, I get scared too."

"You never show it."

"Well," Kiri looked up at the moon. "I guess I was always the one that had to protect my sister, you know? So, I grew up acting like I was okay, so she wouldn't get freaked out."

"Right…" Shin nodded, his head moving against his chest.

"I was so nervous I thought I was gonna throw up. And then as we drove into the courtyard this long-legged kid, looking just like a skittish colt, came barreling out of the barn practically baring his teeth." He chuckled at the memory. "You… stunned me."

"I'm not a horse," Shin thumped his head on him.

"Yeah, you are," Kiri laughed. "All legs and full of crazy energy but… you took my breath away. I'd never met anyone like you, and I never will again." Shin tilted his head back far enough that they could see each other.

"I guess that could be true," he twisted his lips. "I'm one-of-a-kind." He laughed wryly.

Kiri kissed his forehead. "You really are."

Shin sighed and sat up. "I should finish the dishes."

"No, I'll do them. It's my turn."

"You made dinner though," he protested.

"A shitty dinner according to you."

"It was pretty bad," Shin giggled. "Okay, you can do them."

Ruffling his hair, Kiri untangled their bodies and squatted down to quickly rinse and clean up the mess kits.

Shin pulled off his boots and sat cross-legged on his bedroll watching him. He'd grown quiet again and normally that was just the way they were together… but after the kiss, Kiri was feeling insecure. There were so many things he wanted to ask.

Will you go out with me?

Can I kiss you again?

But he felt too strange suddenly blurting that stuff out loud. Scrubbing the pot, Kiri laid it on the rocks to rinse it out. He heard Shin tearing at the paper of his candy.

Glancing up, his heart jumped into his throat seeing what he was doing. He was smiling shyly, his eyes glittering enticingly while he smeared the chocolate candy bar over his lips, like he was putting on lip gloss.

The fire suddenly hissed as he missed the pan and poured the water into the flame.

Shin chuckled softly.

"Shit," Kiri jumped and pulled the pan off the rocks, rinsing it again. Adding dry wood to the fire, he shook his head. "You're teasing me."

"I am."

"Does this mean…" he looked up again to see the seductive mess smeared on his lips.

"Mean?" His pink tongue flicked along his lower lip, leaving a glistening trail through the thick candy.

"Shin," Kiri groaned, his voice pained. "I know we kissed, but now," he could barely restrain himself. "Well, I'm going to have to kiss you again, and I want to and all, but… I need more than that."

Tipping his head, Shin stared at him. "I know." He smiled and lay on his side. "Can we start slow?" He reached out his hand and beckoned to him. "Sleep next to me and just share dessert," he licked more of the chocolate from his lip, "before I eat it all."

Scrambling to his feet, Kiri put another big log on the fire and moved his bedroll next to his. Laying down he propped himself on his elbow staring into his eyes, he blushed beautifully. Tentatively, Kiri bent down and tasted his mouth. "You're sweet," he licked along his lip.

"That tickles!" Shin laughed and pushed at his chest.

"Tickles?" Cocking a brow, Kiri bent down and kissed him firmly, nibbling at his mouth, his tongue cleaning up the chocolate. Shin kissed him back, but his movements were wooden again, like… Kiri drew back. "Shin, have you ever been kissed?" He felt his body stiffen under him, shit.Bad question.

"Well yeah, of course," rolling his eyes mockingly, he ran his hands under the thick collar of Kiri's jacket. "I - I just haven't, you know, in a while, so I'm a bit rusty."

"Mmm," Kiri kissed his chin. "Me too. Sorry, I was just hoping that I was your first." He nibbled on his jawline and worked his way to his ear, tugging softly on his earlobe. Shin squirmed under him.

"Um, why?"

"No reason," Kiri came back to stare at his lips, most of the candy now cleaned off. "I guess I'm just like anyone else, a bit overwhelmed about the person I like, that's all. Wish you were only mine."

Grabbing his shoulders, Shin lifted himself up off the pillow and kissed him fast. It was a quick chaste peck. "That's it."

Kiri laughed, not understanding. "That's what?"

Huffing loudly, Shin repeated the gesture, "that was my first kiss, in primary school. Can't remember her name, she kissed me and ran away."

He was blushing so hard, Kiri could see the red flush in his cheeks even in the dim firelight. A surge of possessiveness swept through him, he was his first.Checking it a bit, he knew he'd need to be careful, or he'd scare the shit out of him. "Well, since you can't remember her name, could we count this as your first real kiss?"

"Yes, Eijirou," Shinsou grabbed his cheeks roughly. "I will allow that," he chided teasingly and dragged him down for another long kiss.

TOL - Yeah... I know. Can I love these two anymore!? First kiss is the best. Sero... what is that man up to? And Kats and Freckles... there's a lot going on!