Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

CHAPTER ONE

Furihata Kouki had been dating Akashi Seijuro for a full year and had yet to introduce him to his family. It wasn’t for any particular reason other than his family lived in Tokyo while he lived in Kyoto. His family knew they were dating, they knew Seijuro’s name, and Kouki had sent them a couple of pictures from when they went on dates. Extravagant ones. Honestly, Kouki had experienced more things with Seijuro in a year than he had in his entire twenty-six years of life.

He hummed, hooking his fingers through the handle of the cat faced mug filled with his favorite butterscotch latte. His mother had called him the other morning while he was on his way to work. She expressed that she wanted to meet Seijuro. In person. For the holidays, which was approximately two months away. And for whatever reason, the thought terrified him. Not because he was worried about Seijuro, that man could handle himself with grace and poise like a prima ballerina dancing to Swan Lake. 

His true worry was himself. He was irrevocably in love with Seijuro and had come to that conclusion five months ago. And he believed Seijuro felt the same way…but…were they really meant to be? Seijuro was an established millionaire, business man, star athlete, and founder of a charity organization that helped kids who’d lost a parent or both parents. The fact of the matter was Seijuro was an amazing and beautiful person inside and out, but Kouki…well…he was just a nerdy guy working for an animation company. No accolades or fanfare, just a simple man working the standard nine-to-five with not much else to offer.

The warm, sweet coffee rolled down his throat as he remembered the many dates…or more like vacations he’d gone on with Seijuro. Back in August, Seijuro took him to Australia where they snorkeled around the Great Barrier Reef for a weekend. And before that in June, they’d gone to Hawaii for a week where Seijuro spoiled him so rotten he was certain he would die. Kouki could never ever do those types of things for Seijuro, the most exciting thing he could probably manage is homemade cookies and cakes. Or animate something for him. He’d become quite good at drawing, never quite expected to work in animation when he was in school, but in university he joined a club and it all worked out.

A group of teenagers a couple of tables down all laughed while another—the victim of their laughter presumably—buried their face in their hands and just about melted in their chair. That was how Kouki used to be. Always the one being shamelessly embarrassed. He’d always been shy and quiet, even as an adult. Seijuro often had him burying his face in his hands and sliding out of his chair and under the table. Kouki smirked and stared across at the empty seat in front of him. Seijuro was running a little late, he’d texted Kouki ten minutes ago. His meeting had run longer than he anticipated, but was already on his way.

Kouki took in a deep breath, closing his eyes as he leaned back into the tufted maroon chair he’d taken. It was the same place he and Seijuro always sat when they met for coffee every Friday afternoon. The delicious aroma of vanilla, fresh coffee grounds, and rich chocolates had become one of his favorite smells. Next to Seijuro’s own scent, of course, which was a blend of smoky oakwood, whisky, and a twist of citrus notes that was just so masculine and mouthwatering. Kouki bit his lower lip, remembering how it put him into a blissful haze every time. He suppressed a laugh, pinching the bridge of his nose, feeling a blush coming across his face.

In some ways it was ridiculous. Despite being together for a year—twelve months, fifty two weeks, 365 days—Kouki felt like a pubescent boy with a huge crush ninety-eight percent of the time. The other two percent—a rare occurrence—was when he would boldly go toe-to-toe with Seijuro. And yeah, Seijuro always won. He was a damn conversational wizard, knowing all the right things to say whether it was sweet, romantic, or down right dirty.

Akashi Seijuro would have Kouki blushing and feeling a whole damn zoo in the pit of his gut every time they were together. And some days Kouki would just lay on his bed smiling like an idiot while kicking his feet as he scrolled through his pictures of them together. It was like he was a teenager with no experience of love, dating, and sex and was having it all for the first time. All fantasy. Then again, Seijuro had a way of making fantasies into realities. In all ways—romantically and sexually. His face became hotter. Not good. If Seijuro saw him all cute and blushy as he often referred to Kouki after whispering the dirtiest things in his ear, Seijuro would drag him right to his apartment.

It was both a blessing and a curse that Seijuro’s apartment was literally two intersections down the road. Kouki licked his lips, willing himself to calm down before he got excited. He ran his fingers through his tousled brown locks and inhaled through his nose, then exhaled through his mouth about three times. The heat dissipated from his face, his blood that was most certainly heading for his cock slowed, and everything felt more relaxed. Then from the corner of his eye, Seijuro’s vibrant red hair and bespoke navy suit walked past the front window of the coffee shop.

The bells on the front door behind Kouki jingled. Seijuro stood beside him, leaning down to place a soft kiss on his lips that lingered just a little longer than normal. When he straightened, he pulled out the chair across from Kouki and sat down with the practiced elegance of a prince. Sometimes, Kouki felt a little bit too much of a commoner to be with the one and only Akashi Seijuro—heir to the Akashi Corporation, one of the richest men in all of Japan.

“I’m so sorry, I’m late, love,” Seijuro said, unbuttoning the last button of his perfectly tailored suit. “Meetings should never be held on Fridays.”

Kouki chuckled. “It probably could have just been an email?”

“They can always just be an email.” 

“Do you want anything?” Kouki asked before finishing off the last of his butterscotch latte.

Seijuro grinned. “Just you.”

Kouki sighed and laughed, head hanging for a moment. “You say the darnedest things, Sei-kun.”

“What?” He leaned forward on the small square table that separated them, fingers lacing together as his red eyes traced every curve of Kouki’s face. “I can’t say sweet things to you? Admit the truth that I only want you at this moment.”

Kouki’s face heated, his heartbeat thumped a little faster and harder behind his ribs. “You do know we both have to go back to work,” Kouki pulled the sleeve of his sweater back, revealing his watch, “in forty minutes.”

“So you go back a little late,” Seijuro said with a shrug. “I’ll make it worth it.”

“Now, you listen to me, Sei-kun,” Kouki said, fighting the urge to smile. He wanted to maintain some seriousness. “I have to stay late at work today already.”

“Why?” Seijuro tilted his head.

“You know why,” Kouki muttered, falling back in his seat. “Last night.”

“I believe I showed you an amazing time last night. You came—”

Kouki just about lunged across the table, placing his hand over Seijuro’s mouth. “Shh! We’re in public, don’t say such things.”

Seijuro chuckled and gently took hold of Kouki’s hand, then exposed his wrist. He kissed it, his soft, warm lips lingered for several seconds before his tongue brushed against his flesh, tracing his vein. Kouki sucked in a breath, torn between pulling away and just letting it happen, because fuck it felt so sensual. Seijuro smiled and lowered Kouki’s wrist, then laced their fingers together. “So why do you have to stay late today?”

“I have to finish a couple of scenes before the weekend, shouldn’t take me more than an hour, hour and a half tops.”

“I don’t mind waiting for you.”

“Are you sure?”

“Of course,” Seijuro said with a sultry smile. “You’re more than worth it.”

Kouki bit the inside of his cheek. “Stop it.”

“Never.”

Kouki shook his head, staring at the man who lived in his mind rent free. Every day and all the time. He’d had relationships in the past, three others, but none of them had been like his and Seijuro’s. None had lasted as long either, in reality Kouki hadn’t had a relationship last longer than eight months. And he sometimes felt just a little out of his element, because none of his previous relationships had been with someone like Seijuro.

Handsome—so much so it should have been a crime.

Smart—graduated top of his class.

Talented—athletically, musically, sexually…

Rich—self-explanatory.

Regal—definitely had to be a prince in a former life.

Kouki sometimes believed it was just all some sort of dream. While they’d met in high school through basketball, they hadn’t exactly been friends. Acquaintances, really. It wasn’t until Kouki was in his third year at University that he and Seijuro crossed paths again. And that time, they actually became friends. In fact, they were friends for another three years before Seijuro told Kouki he wanted to go on a date with him. At first, he genuinely thought Seijuro was joking, but he gripped Kouki’s chin, looked him dead in the eye and said, “I’m serious, Kouki. I want to go on a date with you.”

They went on a date. Kissed. A hot, delicious, yummy kiss. Almost had sex, but they both agreed it was best to wait at least for one more date. By date two, they’d had sex in Seijuro’s kitchen, living room, bedroom, shower, and closet. It had been an all night experience and just thinking about the way Seijuro used his tongue, teeth, fingers, and cock had Kouki heating up. He pushed the thoughts away before they ended up in Seijuro’s apartment. Naked. Sweaty. Panting. Stop!

“What are you thinking about?” Seijuro asked, the corner of his mouth quirking upward.

“Nothing,” Kouki lied. Pathetically at best.

Seijuro hummed. “You sure? You’re getting all cute and blushy.”

“No.”

“I beg to differ, love.”

Kouki pressed his lips together. He had about a hundred tabs open and almost all of them had to do with Seijuro doing very dirty things to him. But he went to the one that was of the utmost importance: Seijuro meeting his family. They were in a serious relationship, it was time Kouki brought Seijuro home to his family, who desperately wanted to meet him. And, Kouki kinda wanted them to meet too. Despite his doubts and reservations of Seijuro’s feelings toward him. He believed they were genuine, but then again he was a nobody compared to Seijuro, who definitely deserved to be with someone equally as amazing.

Kouki licked his bottom lip, trying to string together a coherent and proper invitation to his family’s home for the holidays. He was a little nervous that Seijuro might deny him, but he still had to try. “I want to ask you something.”

“What is it?”

“Well,” Kouki said, feeling oddly nervous. “We’ve been together for a while now.”

“Yes.” Seijuro stared at him.

“And, well, I love you.”

“I love you too.”

Kouki’s heart skipped a beat. He let out a small laugh, glancing around the coffee shop. The teenagers had left, but there were four other couples, all seeming to be having romantic little conversations of their own. “I would really like to…”

Seijuro tilted his head. “To what?”

“To take you home,” Kouki explained, blood rushed to his cheeks and the tips of his ears. “I mean, home to my family. In Tokyo. I want them to meet you and for you to meet them.”

Seijuro smiled. “I’d be honored.”

Kouki blinked. “Really?”

“Of course, why wouldn’t I be? You talk about them often, I’d be happy to meet them.”

“For the holidays?”

Seijuro nodded. “I’d love that. Besides, you’ve already met my father, and I’m sure your family will be much better company.”

Kouki stifled a laugh. He had met Seijuro’s father back in the summer, they’d had a company barbecue. And Kouki could see where Seijuro got his stoicness from. His father had been rather kind to him and even expressed that he’d like to have a more personal meeting with Kouki in the future. Seijuro hadn’t let that happen, but Kouki knew that he and his father’s relationship was precarious at best.

“You must tell me what all of them like so I may find the correct gifts.”

Kouki shook his head and gave Seijuro’s hand a squeeze. “That isn’t necessary. Trust me, the gift will be you coming in the first place.”

“Nonsense, I cannot show up without gifts.”

“I’ll slap a bow on you.” Kouki grinned.

Seijuro laughed. “Don’t be complicated, Kouki-kun. I’d hate to punish you later.”

Kouki bit his lower lip and Seijuro watched with rapt attention. “I think I can handle it.”

Seijuro let go of his hand and reached for the back of Kouki’s head, fingers tangling into his hair. Forceful, but gentle at the same time. Dominating and delicious. He pulled Kouki forward, their lips pressed together. His eyes fluttered closed and he fought the urge to moan as Seijuro forced his tongue into his mouth. Seijuro went to pull back, but Kouki followed and nibbled at Seijuro’s bottom lip.

“So bold,” Seijuro murmured against Kouki’s mouth, brushing the tip of his nose against Kouki’s before placing a chaste kiss on the crown of his head.

Kouki’s eyes remained closed for a few seconds longer, before he let out a soft sigh. “I don’t know how I’m going to finish my work when you’re just on my mind all the time. I’m going to need to start charging you rent, Sei-kun.”

“I can afford it.” Seijuro smirked, then winked.

Chapter Text

CHAPTER TWO

Kouki twirled his stylus between his fingers as he stared at the scene he’d been drawing out for the past three hours. Despite working and more or less being on task, his mind tended to drift back to Friday night when he and Seijuro had gotten back from their date. Really, the dinner and movie were just build up to the real escapades of the night. Seijuro had not gone easy on him, but Kouki didn’t mind at all, because all day Saturday Seijuro doted on him. Soft sweet kisses, back rubs, foot rubs, delicious food in bed, where they hardly left the comfort of one another’s arms while watching trashy reality shows. It had been the absolute best day and he wanted to do it all again.

A knock at his door pulled him from his thoughts. He stopped twirling his pen and turned his chair toward the door where Kasamatsu Yukio stood, looking somewhat cross if the furrow of his brow and glint of frustration in his cobalt eyes were anything to go off of.

“Something wrong?” Kouki asked. Kasamatsu had been his coworker for three years. While Kouki did the animations for the movies, video games, and short films their company created, Kasamatsu was the one who scored all of it. The guy had quite an ear for music and could make some pretty amazing compositions. Back when they first met in high school on the basketball court, Kouki never would have suspected he was a musician.

Kasamatsu huffed and plopped down on the very uncomfortable couch Kouki had. It came with his office and was as hard as a rock…really, sitting on the floor was much more comfortable. Kasamatsu stared up at the tiled ceiling, legs outstretched, arms splayed across the back of the sage green couch. “I need help.”

Kouki blinked. “Yeah, for sure. With what?”

“With Ryota.”

“Okay, what about him?” Kouki had actually become good friends with Kasamatsu and Kise Ryota over the past few years since they were dating and had been for a while. Apparently, the two had always remained friends, but that all changed when they were in university. Kinda like Kouki and Seijuro, but they were different. In a good way, Kise was head over heels in love with Kasamatsu, who was much more reserved and often seemed to just be trying to keep up in the world of Kise.

Kasamatsu sputtered and reached into the inner pocket of his gray blazer he was wearing. He held up a little black velvet box.

Kouki’s mouth fell open then he smiled. “You’re going to propose to him?”

“I want to.”

“I’m sensing a but.”

“No, not really,” Kasamatsu said with a sigh as he opened the box, revealing a sleek silver band with a thin stripe of blue going through it. He snapped it closed and tucked it back into his pocket before leaning his arms against his knees. “I don’t know how to propose to him.”

“Getting on one knee is too hard or…”

Kasamatsu shot him a glare.

Kouki chuckled. “Sorry. In all seriousness, you know that Kise-kun is going to be over the moon regardless of how you propose to him.”

“I want it to be special.”

“Flash mob.”

“Special, not embarrassing.”

“Take him on a picnic and then have it written in the sky.”

“Really?”

Kouki smiled, then snapped his fingers. “How about you propose where you guys had your first real date. Like redo your first date and at the end propose.”

Kasamatsu hummed. “That’s actually a pretty good idea.”

“What was your first date with him?”

“It was an art exhibit, an interactive one.”

Kouki smiled. “What did you guys do there?”

Kasamatsu clicked his tongue. “Throw paint at each other mostly, then we made these really awful clay mugs, and you know that weird cat statue thing on my desk?”

Kouki recalled that weird cat statue that was blue with green stripes and huge pink eyes. It was definitely unique and it was shaped like a bowling pin, tucked in the corner of Kasamatsu’s desk behind a picture of him and Kise. “Did you make that there?”

“Not me, Ryota did and he told me I had to put it on my desk because it is our love cat. No idea what that means, but anyway, that’s what we did on our first date. It was actually pretty fun.” Kasamatsu chuckled, shaking his head, stars in his eyes. It didn’t take a genius to tell how happy he and Kise were. Kouki himself loved the two of them together; they just sort of made sense. Sometimes, Kouki found himself wondering if people ever thought the same of him and Seijuro.

“Sounds like a good place to make it special,” Kouki replied with a shrug. “I bet Kise-kun would love it.” 

“I’m sure he would, maybe I’ll make him a weird cat statue.”

Kouki chuckled. “So, how long have you had the ring?”

“A couple of weeks.”

“When did you know?” Kouki asked, genuinely curious. “Like when was the moment you decided you wanted to marry him.”

Kasamatsu hummed, pondering the question for a few beats before he looked back at Kouki. “We’ve been together for a long time now and I guess, I just really love that idiot,” Kasamatsu explained, rubbing the back of his neck. “Honestly, it wasn’t some significant moment either, it was more about how I just couldn’t imagine him not in my life. It would probably be pretty lonely without him.”

Kouki hadn’t really put much thought into him and Seijuro ever getting married, they’d only been together a year, but the way Kasamatsu talked about Kise made him wonder if Seijuro felt the same way. Obviously, Kouki was infected by Seijuro. They saw each other everyday and Kouki may as well have just lived at Seijuro’s apartment. His lease was almost up, maybe it was time to take that next step. He wouldn’t mind living with Seijuro, it would make things easier and he would be happier to know he got to come home to the man he loved everyday.

“Do you think you’d marry Akashi?” Kasamatsu asked.

Kouki’s eyes widened. “Oh, I…I um…”

Kasamatsu laughed. “The mention of his name and marriage gets you all tongue-tied, geez.”

His face heated. “I don’t know, I mean, I love him and he’s an Akashi and stupidly attractive and…and…I…”

“What?” Kasamatsu tilted his head. “You seem doubtful. Is something going on?”

“No, everything’s fine,” Kouki assured him, waving his hands. The last thing he wanted was for Kasamatsu thinking something was going on because then Kise would surely find out and chaos was bound to ensue. As much as Kouki loved Kise, the guy was a terrible busybody, thriving off  of drama and gossip.

“You sure?”

“Yeah, it’s just,” Kouki pursed his lips, trying to get his thoughts in order, “I haven’t even introduced him to my parents and we don’t live together, but I want to do all those things. I guess I’m just a little embarrassed to say it to him.”

Kasamatsu’s nose scrunched. “Embarrassed? Why?”

Kouki twiddled his thumbs. “I don’t know, I’m just that shy…I guess.”

“He’s your boyfriend.”

“I know.”

“You shouldn’t be embarrassed to tell him that you love him so much you want him to meet your family and live together.”

A heat rose up Kouki’s chest, neck, and ears. He knew what Kasamatsu was saying to be true, but Seijuro was his first serious relationship. And damn, he really didn’t want to screw up by saying the wrong thing and moving things too quickly. Was it irrational? Probably, but he couldn’t help himself. If one was to look up the definition of insecurity in the dictionary, Kouki was certain his photo would be there. He didn’t want to think that way, but finding the courage to admit his true feelings was hard. 

“You should just tell him, I bet he’d love to know how you feel. I mean, you told me.”

Kouki licked his lips and shrugged. “Yeah, but that’s different.”

“Sure,” Kasamatsu shrugged, “I get you're a reserved person and all, but Akashi doesn’t strike me as someone who would just stay with you for the sake of it. I think the guy really likes you.”

“How did this turn into a you helping me situation?” Kouki laughed lightly, scratching his cheek. “You came to me for help.”

“You did help, so I’m returning the favor.”

“Well, I did ask him to come meet my family for the holidays.”

Kasamatsu clapped. “And how did that go?”

“He wants to get them all gifts and said he’d be happy too.”

“See? Be brave, Furihata.”

“I know, I know,” Kouki replied. “It’s a work in progress.”

Kasamatsu rolled his eyes and rose from the couch. “I suppose so,” he walked toward the door and leaned against the doorjamb, “I’m just saying, I don’t think Akashi is going anywhere. I get the I’m-staying-with-him-forever type of vibes.”

Kouki blinked. “Really?”

Kasamatsu scowled. “Are you seriously this insecure?”

“Yes,” he deadpanned.

“Oh, Furi,” Kasamatsu said as he pinched the bridge of his nose.

“I know, I’m hopeless.”

“I’ll say.”

Kouki frowned. “You aren’t supposed to agree!”

Kasamatsu laughed. “Sorry.”

“I hear what you’re saying, Kasamatsu-kun,” Kouki replied, glancing at a picture of him and Akashi from when they went snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef. They were standing at the bow of a ship, under a big blue sky, surrounded by miles of ocean. “And I think you’re right, I should be more honest with him.”

“Tell him when you see him tonight.”

“Tell him what?” Kouki blinked.

Kasamatsu frowned. “Don’t ‘what’ me, you know what I mean.”

A sigh of defeat escaped from Kouki’s lips. He nodded, a small laugh escaping him. “Fine, I’ll tell him, but if he rejects me—”

“Who’s going to reject you, Furi-kun?” Kise’s voice floated into the room. He stood behind Kasamatsu, eyes gleaming, lips curved into a small smile. His blond hair fell across his forehead as he tilted his head. “Is something going on with you and Akashicchi? Are you going to propose to him? Tell me everything!” He placed his arm around Kasamatsu’s shoulder, kissed his boyfriend’s cheek then turned his attention back to Kouki. “Come on, come on. What were you two talking about?”

“Mind your business,” Kasamatsu grumbled, playfully elbowing Kise in the ribs. “I thought your shoot wasn’t over until five.”

“I just couldn’t stay away from you, Yu-chan,” Kise grinned as he snuggled into Kasamatsu. His arms snaked around Kasamatsu’s waist as he nuzzled his neck. Kasamatsu snorted and patted Kise’s head, muttering something about him being a liar. Kouki wouldn’t doubt that Kise was telling the truth; he was a bit of the clingy type. Kasamatsu seemed to like that about him though.

“You’re a terrible liar, Ryota.”

Kise chuckled and kissed Kasamatsu again then squeezed between him and the doorway. He plopped down on the uncomfortable couch, golden eyes studying Kouki. It was clear Kise had come from a photoshoot, his skin was glowing, his hair perfectly styled, and he was dressed as stylishly as ever—cream colored sweater, green plaid coat, charcoal pants and pristine white hi-top sneakers. “Don’t keep me waiting, Furi-kun. Why are you going to be rejected?”

“I’m leaving him with you,” Kasamatsu said, turning on his heels to leave. “If you give him coffee make sure it’s decaf.”

“Too late! I already ordered all of us coffee on my way here, extra shot of espresso for me,” Kise called out as Kasamatsu wandered back to his own office at the other end of the hall.

Kouki opened his mouth then closed it, his eyes drifting from where Kasamatsu once stood to where Kise was currently sitting, looking like the golden retriever that he was. He laughed nervously as Kise propped elbows on his thighs, resting his chin against his laced fingers. Obviously, Kise wasn’t going to let it go. “Did you really order us all coffee?”

Kise chuckled. “No, but I’d be happy to.”

“No, no,” Kouki held up his hands and shook his head. “Thank you though.”

“Fine, fine. You know I’m not going to stop pestering you, I’ll just keep asking and asking until you tell me.”

Kouki sighed. “The lease on my apartment ends next month and I was thinking of maybe not renewing.”

“Oh, so you’re thinking of asking Akashicchi to live together?”

“Yeah, maybe, I don’t know.”

“You’ve been dating for a year,” Kise said with a shrug. “Why not?”

“I just keep thinking what if’s.”

Kise face scrunched and he shook his head, waving the matter away. “Don’t play that game, that’s dangerous and you’ll just drive yourself crazy.”

Kouki hummed. “I know, that’s basically what Kasamatsu was telling me. I just don’t want to be—”

“Rejected? Nah, Akashicchi isn’t going to reject you, trust me, I’ve known him a long time. He’s in this,” Kise said and those words made Kouki feel much better. “Why would you think he’s going to reject you anyway?”

The truth: insecurity. And also the fact that his previous relationships ended for the same reason: they just fell out of love with him. Of course, he’d only been in three other relationships, but for all of them to claim they just didn’t feel the same way about him as time went on seemed like a bit of a pattern rather than coincidence. Kouki had always just been himself, but maybe the charm of his clumsy shy self died off after a while.

Kouki bit his cheek and shrugged. “I’m just insecure.”

Kise frowned. “I get it and I know it's easier said than done and all, but don’t be. Akashicchi doesn’t like wasting time on things, he never would have gotten with you if he didn’t have genuine feelings.”

“Thanks, Kise-kun.” 

“We should go on a double date this weekend,” Kise suggested, a mischievous smile spreading across his face. He was without a doubt already coming up with little schemes. “What do you think?”

Kouki raised an eyebrow. “Are you going to try and force conversations to happen?”

“Force is such a strong word, Furi-kun,” Kise chuckled and waggled a finger at him. “I prefer to think of it as  planting seeds.”

“I’m gonna say no.”

“Aw, you’re no fun!”

—♡—

The moonlight seeped in through the glass paneling lining the balcony on the first floor of Seijuro’s apartment, bleeding into the kitchen. Kouki sat at the kitchen island, quietly drinking some warm tea. Despite having a wonderful time in bed and in the shower, Kouki still felt restless. He had every intention of asking Seijuro about possibly living together, but he chickened out over dinner, then when they were sitting on the couch watching awful trash TV, Seijuro started kissing him and well, he was weak and just fell right into Seijuro.

Sex with him was fantastic. The way Seijuro touched him and made him feel warmed his soul. It was like coming up for air after being underwater for a little too long. He bit his lower lip and raked his fingers through his hair. It was almost ridiculous how much of an effect Seijuro had on him. If he could go back in time and tell his teenage self that one day the guy that terrified him his first year of high school would be the man he’d fall head-over-heels, singing-in-the-shower, butterflies-in-your-stomach, kicking-your-feet-while-grinning-like-an idiot in love with, he’d probably plead insanity. It was something he never saw coming.

Strong, warm arms wrapped around his torso and soft lips pressed against the nape of his neck. Kouki closed his eyes, head lulling to the side allowing Seijuro more access. He happily obliged, nipping at Kouki’s skin as if it were as sweet as candy. A moan of pleasure escaped from Kouki as Seijuro’s hands traveled down his sides, the tips of his fingers brushing just beneath the waistband of his boxers.

“Why are you not in bed with me?” Seijuro whispered into his ear before tugging on his earlobe playfully with his teeth.

Kouki smiled then turned to look up at him. “I couldn’t sleep.”

Seijuro pulled away, eyebrows knitting together with concern. “Are you not feeling well?”

“I’m fine,” Kouki assured him. “I just have a lot on my mind.”

“Do you want to talk about it?”

Kouki stared into his alluring red eyes and bit his lower lip. He may as well just rip the bandage off. Kasamatsu and Kise’s words of encouragement from earlier that day rattled off in his head. He nodded and gestured to the empty seat beside him. “Yeah, actually, I do.”

Seijuro pulled out the barstool and sat down, eyes filled with curiosity as he studied every curve and plane of Kouki’s face. He rested one arm against the pearly white counter top. “What’s wrong, love?”

Kouki’s heart fluttered. No one had ever really given him a pet name like Seijuro did. It was always so nice and comforting. These were the little things that made him feel as though he was, in fact, someone significant to Seijuro. He cleared his throat and sat a little straighter. “It’s not really something…I mean, I guess it kind of is, but…well, it’s just a thing.”

Seijuro chuckled. “What is?”

“So, the thing is…um, my lease…for my apartment, I mean is, well, it’s ending in a month and I was hoping that maybe…if you wanted to that is. Maybe we could…” Kouki inwardly groaned at his stammering. The heat on his cheeks would have surely been enough to bake cookies on. He had no idea what it was that made him so damn nervous. They had literally had the most amazing sex an hour ago and had fucked like bunnies all summer long. Why in the hell was he so tongue tied?

“Move in with me.”

Kouki’s eyes widened. “You…I…really? You’re sure?”

Seijuro leaned forward, pressing his lips against Kouki’s forehead. “Did you think I would say no, love?”

“Maybe,” Kouki murmured.

Seijuro gripped his chin, forcing him to look into his eyes. “Why?”

“I don’t know.”

“Well, it seems I have not made my intentions clear,” Seijuro said, sliding off the stool. He took hold of Kouki’s hand and gently tugged him out of the kitchen, down the hallway, and back to the bedroom. When they got to the bed, Seijuro placed Kouki in front of it. The back of his legs pressed against it, but Seijuro told him to stay standing. He cupped Kouki’s face, stroking his finger across his cheek. “I love you, Furihata Kouki.”

They kissed. Seijuro removed his clothes and then Kouki’s, their lips breaking apart only for the briefest of moments. Kouki moaned as Seijuro’s hand gently brushed against his hardening cock. His lips curved into a smile as he pushed Kouki back, causing him to fall back onto the bed. Seijuro crawled over him, his forearm resting above Kouki’s head as he continued to kiss him passionately.

Kouki’s hands slowly glided up Seijuro’s muscled back, finger tips brushing his supple skin. Seijuro hummed, a shiver rolling through his body. It was moments like this that Kouki felt brave. Strong. Daring. His fingers stroked the end of Seijuro’s red hair. He broke the kiss, scooting up the bed with Seijuro following him. Seijuro’s hand went back to Kouki’s cock, his thumb brushing against the bead of pre-cum on the tip. Kouki arched his back and Seijuro smiled, kissing his way down Kouki’s neck until he reached his pebbled nipples. Gently, he took Kouki’s nipple between his teeth, tugging just enough to tow the line of pain and pleasure. Kouki moaned, one hand gripping the tangled sheets beneath him while the other gripped the back of Seijuro’s head.

“Let it be known, my love,” Seijuro said, straddling Kouki, their hardened cocks pressed against one another, beads of cum crowning their tips. “I am fucking addicted to you,” Seijuro leaned down and kissed him. “I not only crave your touch,” he whispered, his hot breath brushing against the shell of Kouki’s ear. “I need to hear your laugh, I desire to know every thought that crosses your mind.” He kissed Kouki’s neck, dragging his tongue against his jugular before biting and sucking at his flesh. “I wish to be the source of your happiness. I want you and only you.”

Kouki moaned as Seijuro trailed wet kisses down his body. His tongue licked at Kouki’s throbbing cock. He whined as Seijuro teased him with little kisses and long, wet drags of his tongue from the base of his cock to its sensitive tip. He squirmed, but Seijuro climbed back up his body and placed both of Kouki’s hands toward the headboard of the bed. Seijuro kissed him and brushed the back of his hand against Kouki’s cheek, “Don’t move your hands from that spot, do you understand, love?”

Kouki swallowed, unsure if he could utter a single word. His body burned with desire and need. Pre-cum dripped onto his lower belly. He took in a deep breath and it escaped him in a shaky gasp as Seijuro placed his mouth on Kouki’s nipple. Hot, wet tongue flicking and sucking meanwhile Seijuro’s hand cupped his balls, massaging and tugging them. Kouki moaned with pleasure, back arching again and hands clenching the pillows.

“You’re my favorite flavor, Kouki-kun,” Seijuro said as he wiped the pre-cum dripping from the top of Kouki’s cock. Kouki bit his lower lip, eyes followed Seijuro’s fingers as he licked at them. A seductive, delicious, beautiful smile spread across Seijuro’s face. He pulled his fingers from his mouth, then parted Kouki’s legs. 

A pleased gasp and low rumbling moan tore from Kouki’s chest as Seijuro finger stroked at his hole. His head rolled, heat, pleasure, desire tying in his gut. No one had ever made him feel the way Seijuro made him feel. No one could light him on fire. He whimpered as Seijuro teased him, slowly pushing a single finger inside him then dragged it back out. Then he repeated the motion, smooth and hot. He kept the pace slow then interested two fingers, continuing the rhythm. Kouki ground against him, earning a small laugh from Seijuro. He picked up the pace, still in a pleasant motion. After two more thrusts, Seijuro hooked his fingers, hit his spot with perfect precision.

“Sei-kun,” Kouki mewled, face heated, body tense with need and want.

Seijuro continued his thrusts, pace quickening. “Come for me, my love.”

Three more thrusts, and Kouki came.

Seijuro smiled, slowly pulling his fingers out. “That’s it, love, but I’m not done yet.” He got onto his knees stroking his cock, spreading his pre-cum along his length. “Come,” he whispered and Kouki’s tongue brushed against Seijuro’s cock. He took his whole length, gagging as it hit the back of his throat. Tears formed in the corner of his eyes, but he didn’t stop, sucking with a ravenous hunger. Seijuro moaned, grabbing hold of Kouki’s hair as his head bobbed on his length. His head fell back as he stared up at the ceiling, a soft curse escaping his lips.

Kouki sucked hard and pulled away panting. He went back for more, but Seijuro stopped him. “Let me,” Kouki muttered, but Seijuro shook his head and gestured for him to turn around. “I want more,” he whispered.

“Turn around, love,” Seijuro’s voice was dark and low, eyes glowing with a fevered desire to fuck him senseless. “I need my cock inside you.”

Kouki kissed Seijuro then obliged. He groaned as Seijuro pushed into him, filling him entirely. No matter how many times they’d fucked, Kouki never tired of how well Seijuro’s cock stretched him. The pleasure was almost too much. His chest pressed onto the sheets as he gripped them tight. He kept his ass up, Seijuro thrusting into him in a smooth and delicious rhythm. Kouki moaned as Seijuro’s fingers dug into his hips, keeping him up. Their flesh slapped together, sweat beaded on their bodies. Ragged breaths escaped Kouki as Seijuro's speed increased, thrust strong and hard. Moans filled the silence of the room, the headboard rattled. 

“Fuck!” Seijuro cried out a few moments later, his hot cum filling Kouki. He huffed, grip loosening as he slowly pulled out. Cum slipped from Kouki’s hole, dripping down his thighs. He hummed as Seijuro laid beside him then yanked him against his body. Kouki chuckled as Seijuro’s body curled around his own. “You’re mine, Furihata Kouki, and I refuse to let you go.” His lips pressed against the back of Kouki’s neck.

Kouki smiled and soon drifted to sleep in the arms of his lover.

Chapter Text

CHAPTER THREE

Mibuchi Reo tilted his head, silky black hair brushing across his shoulder. His seafoam green eyes shined with intrigue as he leaned across the table of the cafe he and his former basketball team had decided to meet at for lunch on a lazy, drizzly Sunday afternoon. It was the normal meeting—minus Nebuya, who was on some business trip in Singapore—the former Rakuzan team met the second Sunday every month for nothing more than maintaining their friendship. Even Mayuzumi joined in on it, mostly because Sei-chan insisted even though they’d only played together for a short time in high school.

“Stop it, Reo,” Sei-chan chided, peering up from his phone for a moment.

Reo couldn’t help himself. Sei-chan was practically glowing and had stars in his eyes. Not to say Sei-chan hadn’t been like that in their previous meetings, he certainly had ever since he started dating that charming, yet clumsy guy from the Seirin Basketball team. Reo still remembered the first time he met Furihata, he was nervous, shaking like a leaf, and sweating bullets. Somehow he survived and the second year they played him, he had more confidence and had become cuter in a sense. 

Regardless, Reo had never suspected that little Furihata would have garnered the attention of Akashi Seijuro. Of course, the two didn’t really have much of a friendship or connection in high school, but Reo caught it. He noticed the sliver of interest in Sei-chan’s eyes back then. It was subtle, but definitely there.

At the moment, it was only the three of them. Kotaro was on his way. Mayuzumi was sitting beside Sei-chan, his pale gray eyes drifting from Reo to Sei-chan. While Mayuzumi played dumb sometimes, Reo knew that he was aware of Sei-chan’s glowing era. All of them had been. And it was all because of Furihata, whom they’d all known not just as the terrified point guard of Seirin, but also as the charming shy man that had captured their former captain’s attention.

“Sei-chan,” Reo said softly, resting his chin against the back of his hand. “What’s going on?”

“Nothing.” Sei-chan placed his phone face down on the table. “Why?”

Mayuzumi raised an eyebrow then glanced at Reo, who pursed his lips not buying Sei-chan’s sentiments for a second. Given the hint of skepticism on Mayuzumi’s face, it was safe to say that Reo wasn’t just imagining it. And he had been known to do that in the past. Maybe it was because Reo wanted Sei-chan to be happy. Like genuinely happy. In the past decade, Reo had learned a lot about Sei-chan; they'd become really close friends. Best friends even. They always turned to one another for advice, which meant Reo knew Sei-chan better than most. It wasn’t everyday that the stoic and princely Akashi Seijuro casually talked about his feelings and thoughts.

“Now, you have Mayuzumi looking at me all weird too. I’m not doing anything out of the ordinary,” Sei-chan said with a small smile.

“You have this look is all,” Mayuzumi replied with a shrug. “I’m not sure what to call it, but it’s different.”

Reo nodded in agreement. “Radiant, sparkling eyes, dreamy stare, just pure bliss.”

Sei-chan stifled a laugh. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Are you keeping secrets?” Reo gasped, feigning hurt and betrayal. He dramatically flung his hand back against his head as if he were going to fall right out of his chair.

Mayuzumi rolled his eyes while Sei-chan gave him an incredulous stare and said, “I have no secrets.”

“Then what’s the look all about?” Reo asked, smirking. “Did you and Furi-kun do something fun and scandalous last night?”

“Geez, Reo-nee, mind your business,” Mayuzumi murmured as he turned his attention back to the touch screen menu propped at the end of their table.

Sei-chan sighed and shook his head. “Kouki is going to be moving in with me next weekend.”

Reo’s mouth fell open. “Really? Finally!”

Mayuzumi chortled and shook his head.

“I share those sentiments,” Sei-chan stated. “He tried to ask, but I got impatient and asked him myself.”

Reo giggled and then clapped his hands together. “Wow, wow, wow.”

Mayuzumi nodded. “Congratulations.”

“So you’re serious about him,” Reo said before taking a quick sip of his water.

“Of course,” Sei-chan said, matter-of-factly. 

Reo had known, of course, but he just wanted to hear him say it. Honestly, Reo loved the two of them together. Contrary to popular belief, Sei-chan may have come across a little imposing and maybe even a bit cold, but the reality was he was rather warm and caring. His upbringing taught him to conceal his true feelings and nature. And since Furihata came into the picture, even before they were dating, little pieces of Sei-chan’s hard exterior chipped away.

The three of them had ordered their food and Reo ordered for Kotaro as well, knowing the guy backward and forward. Due to the weather, the cafe was quieter than normal. Only a handful of other patrons were in. The latest pop hits played over the speakers and the rain pattered on the window. The trio shared stories of work and their lives as they usually did in their monthly meetings. A few inside jokes slip through, a rumble of laughter every so often.

The bells on the door of the cafe chimed and the staff greeted the customers from the kitchen on the other side of the bar. Kotaro greeted them back with a toothy grin, sliding his umbrella into the holder near the door. He walked over and plopped down beside Reo, muttering an apology for being late.

“Why were you late? That’s not like you, Kotaro-kun,” Reo commented. “I ordered for you by the way.”

“Always taking care of me, Reo-nee,” Kotaro laughed, clapping him on the shoulder. “I have big news.”

“What’s the news?” Sei-chan asked with a tilt of his head.

Kotaro licked his lips and suppressed a laugh, rubbing the back of his neck. His green eyes shined and the corner of his eyes crinkled as he smiled. “So, uh,” he laughed and shook his head, all eyes on him then he sighed and said, “Ayame and I are expecting. She’s pregnant.”

Ayame and Kotaro had been married for almost a year and dated all throughout their time in college. Reo grinned, placing his hand over his heart. Mayuzumi congratulated him while Sei-chan smiled and said the same. All three of them had gone to their wedding and were all groomsmen, even Nebuya, who probably would have caused a whole scene in a bout of excitement had he been present.

“That’s so great!” Reo said, heart fluttering with all the exciting news he’d heard within the hour. “My babies are growing up.” He wiped away a tear from the corner of his eye.

Kotaro chuckled. “I’m older than you, Reo-nee.”

Reo sputtered. “Maybe, but I’m much more mature.”

All four laughed, because it was a fact. Reo was without a doubt the mother hen of the group. He checked on all of them often and reminded them to hydrate, get good sleep, and go to the gym often. Reo liked to think of himself as the glue that held them all together.

“So now I have one with a kid on the way and one that’s gonna be moving in with the love of his life,” Reo said with a sigh, his eyes drifting from Kotaro to Sei-chan then to Mayuzumi. “What about you? Anything to share?”

“Wait!” Kotaro exclaimed, eyes on Sei-chan. “You and Furi-kun are moving in together? Who asked who?”

“Yes.” Sei-chan nodded. “Technically, I asked him.”

“Give me my money, Mayuzumi!” Kotaro held out his hand, opening and closing it like a child asking for a treat.

Mayuzumi huffed, pulling out his wallet then placing some cash in Kotaro’s hand.

“You bet against me?” Sei-chan asked with a laugh.

“I was betting on Furihata,” Mayuzumi said with a sigh. “And he let me down.”

“Why didn’t you guys include me?” Reo grumbled, crossing his arms as he sank back in his seat.

“Who would you have picked?” Mayuzumi asked.

“Oh, Sei-chan, obviously,” Reo said with a wave of his hand. “He’s had it bad since they came back from Australia. In fact, I’m surprised you didn’t ask him back then.”

“It crossed my mind, but I didn’t want to scare him off or something,” Sei-chan admitted with a shrug.

“Scare him off? Come on Akashi, he probably would have only passed out,” Kotaro joked.

“I rest my case,” Sei-chan said, taking a sip of his water. “So, Reo, Mayuzumi do you guys have something to share?”

“Nope, same old, same old,” Reo admitted, somewhat sadly. “Maybe next time.”

All eyes fell onto Mayuzumi, who sighed and rubbed the back of his neck. “Yeah, okay,” he said with a small smile. “I got a job offer.”

“Oh, where?” Sei-chan asked.

“California.”

“Whoa,” Kotaro whistled. “Are you taking it?”

Mayuzumi licked his lips, avoiding all their eyes as he nodded. “Yeah, I did.”

“No way, good for you,” Reo said, smiling. “So, you’re leaving us then?”

Mayuzumi shrugged. “Oh come on, I’m not really a pa—”

“Don’t,” Sei-chan said, nudging him with his elbow. “You’re part of our group whether you want to be or not.”

Mayuzumi opened his mouth, but closed it and smiled. “Okay, okay.”

Sei-chan nodded. “Good, so now, when do you leave?”

“Start of the year. So you have me for two more months before I’m across the world.”

“Listen,” Reo said, clapping his hands together once to gain everyone’s attention. “We must celebrate all of these things before Mayuzumi leaves, so I’m proposing a party.”

“When?” Kotaro asked with a tilt of his head, lips curved into a bright smile.

“And where?” Mayuzumi added in. He had never been one for parties or loud events, but Reo didn’t care. They all had to celebrate these changes in their lives. Even if he himself didn’t exactly have anything big going on, all the people he cared about did.

“I’ll iron out all the details, but it’s going to happen before—”

“Kouki and I are going to Tokyo in December for the holidays,” Sei-chan interrupted. “We’ll be gone for half the month.”

Reo hummed. He initially thought of a holiday type party, which it still could be, but he’d probably have less time. “No worries, I’ll handle it, but you all have to promise you will all attend and bring your better halves, yes?”

“Ayame always loves your parties, Reo-nee,” Kotaro said with a laugh. “We’ll both be there.”

“As long as you two don’t try and get Kouki drunk like last time,” Sei-chan said with a glare at Reo and Kotaro who both laughed.

“Oh come on, Akashi,” Mayuzumi said with a smirk. “Drunk Furihata is fun.”

Sei-chan only shook his head. “I refuse to bring him if you spike any drinks.”

“Kill joy,” Reo teased and lifted his hands. “But okay, fine, I promise to not intentionally get him drunk.”

“I mean it,” Sei-chan said, his attention falling onto Kotaro.

“For sure, for sure,” Kotaro said, placing a hand on his heart. “In my defense, I didn’t know he was that much of a lightweight.”

Sei-chan rolled his eyes and groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose.

—♡—

Kise Ryota sat on the bench in the middle of the second bedroom of his and Yukio’s apartment. He was on a mission to create a perfect outfit for his date night with his darling Yu-chan. And yes, he and Yukio did get a three bedroom apartment so one of the rooms could act as a closet for all his clothing. He hadn’t bought any of it either, ninety percent of his wardrobe had been gifts from photoshoots, magazines, and brands he’d been endorsing since he was in high school. Did he mention he also ran a podcast and several social media platforms that garnered a lot of attention? Then with Yukio being a composer for some popular video games and movies over the past decade, they’d done pretty well for themselves.

He looked at the racks of clothing, unsure of what he would wear. He’d already put together five different looks and none of them seemed to be right. Honestly, all he wanted to do was be in sweat pants, eat all the junk food he could find—it was his cheat day—and snuggle with Yukio on the couch while watching horror movies so he could use it as even more of an excuse to cling to him. Not to mention, it’d been rainy all day long. Yukio had that morning to meet up with some friends, he’d told Ryota he could tag along, but he just wanted to stay home. His week had been insane and sitting around at home just felt like the right thing to do.

The second bedroom was somewhat of a small clothing store. He wandered down the aisles—yes, he had four aisles in the room and racks that lined the outer edges of the room. The actual closet of the bedroom had been converted into a shoe storage area; last time he’d counted there were eighty-five pairs. Did he need that many? Probably not, but he didn’t want to part with them regardless. Yukio had chastised him for keeping so many things he’d only use once in a blue moon.

Ryota clicked his tongue, holding up a bomber jacket—one that he had in three different colors, the one in hand was mossy green. He pulled it off the rack, hooked the hanger on his fingers, and tossed it over his shoulder as he stepped toward the other rack, finding a soft and cozy beige sweater. He plucked that one off too then walked over to the far wall of the room to find some pants, he had a pair in mind—dark washed skinny jeans with a tear on the left knee. He spotted it, grabbed it, and made his way over to the shoes—all white sneakers, check!

Buzz! Buzz! Buzz!

He jogged over to his phone that had been left on the bench. Reo-nee! flashed across his screen. He tapped the green answer icon and put his phone on speaker. “Well, don’t I feel special, you never call me,” Ryota teased as he laid the clothes down on the cushioned bench.

“That’s not true, I called you last week and then you hung up on me five minutes later cause,” Reo paused and cleared his throat, “ Yu-chan is home! Bye! ”

Ryota laughed. “My bad, I got excited.”

“Well, at least some of us are getting good sex.”

“Hm, yep, it is quite amazing,” Ryota said in a sing-song tone. “Live vicariously through me.”

Reo snorted. “Geez, no need to gloat.”

“So what’s up?”

“We need to have a party,” Reo explained, which instantly had Ryota grinning. He loved to party. “To celebrate some things.”

“Like what?”

“Furi-kun and Sei-chan moving in together—”

“What! They didn’t tell me that!” Ryota snatched up his phone and began pacing through his racks of clothing. He and Furihata had just talked a week ago, how dare he not mention anything to him. He went to his messaging app and typed out an angry message, but ended it with a heart emoji so Furi knew he was still happy for him.

“Well, now you know, and Kotaro is going to be a papa.”

“No way!”

“It was a very informative lunch, Ryo-chan, you should have been there.”

“Obviously!”

Reo chuckled. “And Mayuzumi has a new job in America.”

“Oh wow, good for him,” Ryota said with a smile. After their first year in high school, all the Generation of Miracles teams had started a bit of a training camp during the summer months just before the Inter High. They met for a week and trained like literal dogs and all got to know one another. Ryota and Reo in particular became fast friends. To Ryota’s knowledge a lot of the members from all the different teams had remained friends over the years and kept in contact. “Hey, what kind of party are we thinking about here?”

“That’s why I’m calling you to plan it out, duh.”

Ryota rolled his eyes and opened up his calendar on his phone. It was chock full of his photoshoots, meetings, podcast times, and birthdays. He gasped.

“What’s wrong?” Reo asked.

“Furi-kun’s birthday is in two weeks!”

“Hmm, we’re going to need more help with this.”

Ryota opened up his messaging app. “I’m already on it.”

—♡—

Kouki tucked himself away on Seijuro’s couch, legs curled beneath him, a warm fuzzy blanket that smelled like Seijuro wrapped around him. He hadn’t left all weekend. He arrived Saturday afternoon, they cooked dinner, played shogi—not that Kouki ever won, but Seijuro was teaching him—then they had sex, watched a movie, and had sex again, because they couldn’t keep their hands off one another. Suffice it to say, they should just live together. And they would be next weekend. It would be somewhat like an early birthday present as his birthday was happening the following weekend. Funny how it all just worked out.

His phone buzzed on the armrest of the couch. He picked it up to find he’d gotten a text from Kise. When he opened up his phone, his eyes widened at the long message filled with about a dozen emojis.

Kise-kun: 

FURIHATA KOUKI!!! 😡😡😡

How dare YOU not tell me that YOU and Akashicchi r going to be living together! 😠

tell me everything 👏right👏 this 👏second👏!!! 

did u ask? was it him??? how did it happen? when?! HELLO!!!

I’m so sad and hurt and mad that u didn’t tell me as soon as it happened!

The audacity!!!!!!!!!!!

Why did i have to find out from Reo-nee?!?! 😖😖

I expect a FULL report 😤

IMMEDIATELY, YOUNG MAN!!!

congrats tho…i guess…since u didn’t tell me first…no confetti for u!!!

♥️

Kouki blinked several times as he stared at the message then chuckled. If Reo had told him then that meant Seijuro had said something to his friends. That warmed his heart, knowing that his boyfriend was telling his friends they were going to be living together.

Kouki:

Sorry, Kise-kun, it just happened the other evening ☺️☺️

As usual I got all tongue-tied, so he was the one who asked.

Kise-kun:

THE OTHER EVENING!?!

Kouki:

Yeah…around midnight…I think…

Kise-Kun:

👀👀👀

🍆💦🍆💦🍆💦🍆💦

😏😏😏😏

hmmmmmm????????

Kouki’s face burned with humiliation. It was times like this he really needed to block Kise’s number, he was really only good in small doses. The apartment door lock clicked and opened. Kouki quickly closed his phone, laying it face down on the wooden coffee table in front of him. Seijuro entered the apartment, pushing the door closed and dropping his wallet and keys into the wicker bowl on the entry table. He took off his shoes and crossed the small hallway into the living room, heading straight to Kouki. His phone buzzed two more times on the table and he sighed, shaking his head.

Seijuro placed a kiss on his head then took a seat beside him. He opened his mouth to say something when Kouki’s phone buzzed three more times. Seijuro raised an eyebrow at the phone then glanced at Kouki, who scrubbed his face with his hands. “Let me guess, it’s Ryota.”

Kouki hummed and nodded with a laugh. “Yep, he uh, heard we were moving in together from Reo-nee.”

“I told you that you shouldn’t have given him your number,” Seijuro said, waggling his finger at Kouki.

“It’s not that bad,” Kouki said, only for his phone to vibrate four more times. “Maybe I can just block his number?”

Seijuro laughed. “I just silenced him on mine and check it once a day.”

“Did he message you?” Kouki asked.

Seijuro plucked his phone out from his jacket pocket and nodded. “Yes, three messages.”

Kouki chuckled. Kise never failed to be in everyone’s business, but Kouki kind of liked it. Even though it could be a little annoying at times, Kise was easy to talk to and was always willing to listen and help. Now, how helpful the advice was depended on the issue, but for the most part Kouki enjoyed talking to Kise. He ran his fingers through his hair and shifted around so he could lean against Seijuro, who pulled him close. “How was everyone? Did you have a good time?”

“It was good,” Seijuro said as he brushed his fingers against Kouki’s arm. “Kotaro and Ayame are expecting their first baby, Mayuzumi got a job over in America and will be leaving at the end of the year.”

Kouki’s eyes widened. “Wow, that’s great for them.”

“Agreed, so Reo wants to have a party to celebrate all the things, including us,” Seijuro said with a smile.

Kouki hummed. “That could be fun, I would like that.”

“No alcohol for you though.” Seijuro tapped the tip of his nose. “The only person allowed to see you naked is me.”

Kouki’s face flushed. “Sei-kun. I wasn’t naked.”

“Yet, but you were getting there.”

“I don’t recall that at all.”

“You calling me a liar?” Seijuro asked, eyes darkening with desire.

Kouki bit the inside of his cheek, then held up his thumb and index finger, suggesting he was a bit. “I was just dancing.”

“While removing your clothing,” Seijuro deadpanned, causing Kouki’s face to burn so hot he thought he’d pass out. 

He looked away. “I only had two.”

Seijuro chuckled and placed a gentle hand under Kouki’s chin, lifting it up to give him a sweet kiss. He melted into Seijuro, pulled the blanket off and climbed onto his lap. Seijuro gripped Kouki’s hips and smiled against the kiss. Kouki nipped at Seijuro’s bottom lip, earning a pleased moan from him. His cock hardened as Seijuro’s hands snaked up his body. “I made them swear to not spike the drinks at this party.”

Kouki pulled away, nearly breathless. “When’s this party?”

Seijuro shrugged. “I don’t know. Why?”

Kouki licked his lower lip and straightened, his palms securely planted on the back of the couch on either side of Seijuro’s head. “Kasamatsu-kun told me a little while ago that he plans on proposing to Kise-kun.”

“What a brave man,” Seijuro said with a smirk.

Kouki giggled and affectionately stroked Seijuro’s red hair. “Maybe there’ll be even more to celebrate for it.”

“I say we celebrate now.” Seijuro brushed the tips of his fingers on the bulge of Kouki’s pants. “Then after I fuck you, I want to watch all those silly baking shows you like to watch with you in my arms.”

Kouki pressed his lips together. “What are you waiting for then? Fuck me already.”

Seijuro didn’t hesitate as he flipped them around where Kouki was laying beneath him on the couch. It took no time at all for Seijuro to get them both naked. “I think someone needs to be punished for mouthing off to me,” Seijuro whispered into Kouki’s ear then bit his earlobe, tugging on it playfully. “I’m going to go so painfully slow, you’re going to beg for my cock.”

Kouki gazed up at Seijuro, biting his lower lip as his lover straddled him, stroking his hardened cock. A string of pre-cum dripped from it, falling onto Kouki’s bare belly. He whined, but Seijuro shushed him and placed a hand over Kouki’s mouth, shaking his head. “Sei-kun, I—”

“Now, now love,” Seijuro said in a low, husky tone that had Kouki’s toes curling. “I already told you, I’m gonna make you beg for this cock.” He continued to stroke his dick, making Kouki whimper. His desire, want, and need grew  with each passing second.

Seijuro placed his fingers into Kouki’s mouth, a string of saliva hung from them as he pulled his two fingers free. Kouki moaned as Seijuro pushed his legs apart and placed featherlight touches against his little hole. He squirmed, trying to get Seijuro’s fingers inside him. “Sei-kun, please.”

“Shhh,” Seijuro said with a smirk. “Is this what you want?” He inserted a finger slowly, then pulled it out.

“Mhmm,” Kouki moaned and nodded. “Yes.”

Seijuro shook his head. “So needy, love.”

Kouki bit his lower lip, feeling more of Seijuro’s pre-cum dripping onto his lower belly. He instinctively went for it, wrapping his hand around it firmly, pumping in a smooth rhythm. Seijuro let out a breath of pleasure, his head lulling back. Kouki wiped the bead of cum on Seijuro’s dick and brought it to his mouth, sucking his finger tip clean. Seijuro’s eyes filled with want and he climbed off Kouki’s body, standing on the edge of the couch. Kouki didn’t have to ask or think, he simply took Seijuro’s full length into his mouth.

He gagged, but didn’t stop. The sweet and salty taste of Seijuro’s come drove him wild. The power to make his lover wet for him was the most satisfying feeling. Seijuro’s hand gripped Kouki’s brown hair and he began thrusting into Kouki’s mouth, hitting the back of his throat. Tears formed in the corner of Kouki’s eyes, but he continued to suck and lap up Seijuro’s pre-cum. His hands grasped Seijuro’s ass, his fingers digging in as Seijuro continued to fuck his mouth, drool dripping down his chin.

“Fuck,” Seijuro moaned, pulling free from Kouki. He took in a deep breath and stepped back. “Stand up, hold onto the armrest.”

Kouki did as he was told. He looked back over his shoulder, a shaky breath escaped him as Seijuro pushed him down onto the armrest then used his knee to move Kouki’s legs a little further apart. Two of Akashi’s fingers pushed into him, rubbing against his prostrate. Kouki moaned, burying his face into the cushioned armrest. He gripped it tight, his cheeks flushed. The ecstasy ripping through him had his whole body trembling.

Seijuro removed his fingers and pressed his cock against Kouki’s soft hole, but he didn’t push in. Kouki hummed and pushed back, but Seijuro chuckled and slapped his ass. He yelped and glanced back at Seijuro, who clucked his tongue at him. “Not yet, love, I’m not done teasing.”

Kouki frowned. “Sei-kun.”

Seijuro licked his lips and reached for Kouki’s cock, stroking it with a firm grip while his other hand teased at his hole that was more than ready to take him. Kouki moaned, his knees threatening to buckle. He held onto the couch that slid just a bit as Seijuro pressed into Kouki, pumping his cock. Heat swelling in the pit of his gut as pleasure and need raged through every fiber of his being. He buried his face into the armrest to muffle his cry. Seijuro didn’t relent, caressing him with touches that had his head spinning. Each time he pumped, his fingers stroked against his prostrate.

“Sei-kun! Fuck! I’m gonna—” his words were cut off as Seijuro removed his fingers and slammed his cock into him. Kouki screamed out as Seijuro drove into him, hard and unrelenting. Wet squelching sounds filled the room along with the slapping of skin and the heavy pants of their breaths. “Yes, yes!” Kouki moaned, squeezing his eyes shut.

Seijuro moved faster, thrusting his cock as deep as he could while also pumping Kouki’s cock. “Cum for me love.”

“Sei-kun!” Kouki cried as he came and shivered, nearly collapsing against the arm rest of the couch. Seijuro fell on top of him, his hot, sticky release spilled from Kouki’s hole as he pulled his cock out slowly. Kouki panted, leaning against the couch. Seijuro kissed his shoulder then trailed kisses down his spine. When he made it to his ass, he left a love bite, earning a groan from Kouki.

“Let me clean you up, love,” Seijuro said as he crawled back over him, kissing Kouki’s cheek.

“Sei-kun,” Kouki muttered.

“Yes?”

“I think you’re trying to kill me.”

Seijuro laughed.

Chapter Text

CHAPTER FOUR

“Why am I here?” Midorima Shintaro grumbled as he held two large boxes of party decorations.

“You’re helping decorate, Shin-chan,” Takao Kazunari said with a grin.

“You lied to me.”

Kazunari feigned hurt, gasping as he placed a hand on his chest. “I did no such thing. How dare you accuse me of that.”

Shintaro huffed, shaking his head in annoyance, green hair brushing against the top of his glasses. He knew he should have just stayed home. It wasn’t like he and Kazunari had to do everything together. They’d been dating for three years and everything had been going surprisingly well. Of course, Shintaro wouldn’t deny he had his doubts at first. He feared what would happen if they didn’t work out, because Kazunari was his most trusted person and losing him wasn’t an option.

Kazunari chuckled and continued down the hallway of the apartment complex. They had ridden the elevator up to the top floor and went to the very last door in the hall. Kuzanari knocked three times, Shintaro frowning behind him. He wasn’t sure he had the energy to deal with Kise.

The click of the lock sounded and the door came open. Thankfully, it wasn’t Kise, but Kasamatsu—the cage to Kise’s crazy. He greeted them both with a simple nod and stepped aside, allowing them space to enter. “Hey guys, come on in. Ryota went to pick up the cake.”

“You’re either really brave or stupid for allowing Kise to throw a party in your home,” Shintaro said as he followed Kazunari into the apartment.

Kasamatsu snorted. “It’s not in the apartment, it’s on the roof.”

Shintaro blinked. “Well that sounds dangerous.”

“It’ll be fun, Shin-chan,” Kazunari said as he ventured into the living room. “It’s been a while since any of the old team got together for anything.”

“Old team? How many people are coming?” Shintaro placed the two boxes he’d been carrying down beside the couch.

“Maybe about thirty people or so,” Kazunari assumed with a shrug.

Shintaro raised an eyebrow. “You don’t know for sure?”

“I was in charge of decorations, Kise and Reo-nee were doing the food and invitations.” Kazunari plopped down on the couch, grabbing one of the light gray fluffy pillows. He hugged it to his chest and looked around the apartment, nodding with a smile. “This is a nice place, Kasamatsu. Great view too.” Kazunari reached for the sheer white blinds, pulling them back to see the balcony that had an uninterrupted view of the Kyoto skyline.

“Yeah, thanks, don’t know how much longer we’re going to stay though,” Kasamatsu replied as he sat on the couch across from them. “We’ve been talking about moving back to Tokyo.”

“Why?” Shintaro asked, taking a seat beside Kazunari.

“Ryota’s contract is almost up with some of the brands he’s been part of, and he’s been looking at some in Tokyo, they’ve expressed interest.”

Shintaro nodded, then asked, “what about your job though?” Tokyo and Kyoto weren’t exactly the easiest commute, could it be done? Sure. But it’d be easier to just live in the city your job was in. Kazunari and Shintaro happened to work at the same place. They were both in the medical field and worked in a metropolitan hospital in the heart of central Tokyo.

Kasamatsu rubbed the back of his neck. “I’ve actually thought about going back, my parents have been having some health problems, so it’d be easier if I was closer to home.”

“Oh, I’m sorry to hear that,” Kazunari said, frowning. “I want you guys to come back though, to be honest.”

“I get it.” Kasamatsu waved the matter off. “I actually have been wanting to go back, so it kinda works out.”

The trio talked about what they’d been up to since they last saw each other a few months back and recounted some memories of their teenage days and university days. Shintaro enjoyed it, he genuinely liked being around people from his high school years. And even though Kasamatsu never faced off against Shuutoku they did play for fun when they were all in college. Specifically when he and Kise first started dating.

After half an hour of casual chitchat and banter, the front door came open and Kise walked in carrying a large white box and Mibuchi Reo in tow, carrying a couple of other white boxes. They greeted them as they entered the kitchen and placed the boxes down on the small island in the middle of the room.

“You got Midorimacchi to join you, Takaocchi,” Kise chuckled. “Good to see you guys again, it’s been too long.”

“He lied to me,” Shintaro grumbled, earning a scowl from Kazunari who stood from the couch and gave Kise a hug.

“You mean you didn’t want to come see your friends and spend a fun weekend in Kyoto with your boyfriend?” Mibuchi asked with a raised eyebrow. “Come on Midorima-kun, we all know you’re a big softie.”

Shintaro snorted. It wasn’t that Mibuchi was wrong, per se, but it was annoying that he had to say such embarrassing things outloud. The group talked for a few more minutes, but about the party taking place later in the evening. Kise told them that everyone he invited had confirmed they were going to come. They started talking about setting up the tables, and different things all of which Mibuchi and Kise had managed to acquire. According to them all the tables, chairs, tableware, linens and such were already up on the roof.

“Who’s doing the food?” Shintaro asked. He hadn’t heard anything about a caterer or ordering something, and food seemed to be rather important for a party regardless of what it was.

“I asked Kagamicchi and Himurocchi,” Kise replied with a grin. “Best cooks I know, and they said they would. They’re going to be here in a few hours to use the kitchen, so all the more reason we should get to decorating and finishing the set-up.”

“Let’s do it then.” Kazunari walked over to the boxes of decorations he and Shintaro had brought. “I have balloons, string lights, centerpieces, garland, and backdrops for a photo area.”

“I’m still not sure what we’re celebrating,” Shintaro said as he got up from the couch.

“It’s an everything type of party, but mostly for Sei-chan and Furi-kun moving in together, plus it’s Furi’s birthday today and then for Kotaro and his wife’s new bundle of joy to be and Mayuzumi-kun’s new job. And just because we can,” Mibuchi replied as he walked to the door. “Come on, let’s get to work, we have,” he checked the time on his phone, “About six hours until the party is supposed to begin.”

“We already have all the furniture stuff, so we just gotta make it look nice.” Kise opened the door near the front entrance and pulled out a blue colored metal tank. “I want a balloon arch at the entrance by the way.”

Kazunari laughed and picked up the boxes, handing them back over to Shintaro, who decided it would be best to just roll with the punches. He was stuck with them for the rest of the day and probably a good chunk of the night. Mibuchi and Kise made their way out into the hall to the door directly across from the apartment. Shintaro followed, but stopped at the door when he realized Kuzanari wasn’t behind him. He glanced back over his shoulder and saw Kazunari talking quietly with Kasamatsu, who had pulled a small box out of his pocket.

“Wait, wait, wait,” Kazunari said, eyes wide, a huge grin stretched across his face. “Tonight?”

Shintaro walked back into the room, curious about what was going on. Kasamatsu and Kazunari both looked at him as he stood in the archway. “What’s going on?”

“I’m planning on proposing to Ryota.” Kasamatsu held the small velvet box up and opened it, revealing a simple, yet elegant ring inside.

Shintaro blinked twice. “Tonight?”

“I don’t know, maybe, I’ve been trying to find the best way,” Kasamatsu explained, snapping the box shut then stuffed it into the pocket of his black hoodie. “I have a few ideas, but I think Kise would—”

“Would be happy anyway you did,” Shintaro interjected. He wasn’t exactly the big romantic gesture type, but he’d known Kise for a long time and he’d known him and Kasamatsu as a couple for a while. For as long as Shintaro had known Kise, the happiest he’d ever seen him was when he and Kasamatsu were together, even before they were dating. It was no secret that Kise was head-over-heels in love with Kasamatsu.

Kazunari tilted his head. “Wow, Shin-chan, look at you giving romantic advice.”

“It’s not romantic advice, it’s just facts,” Shintaro muttered with a shrug, then let out a sigh meeting Kasamatsu’s blue-eyed gaze. “Trust me, Kise is the happiest I’ve ever seen him when he’s with you. Whether you make it a huge display or do something small and personal, he’s going to be thrilled.”

Kasamatsu’s cheeks tinged the slightest bit pink before he smiled and nodded. “Thanks, Midorima.”

“Don’t mention it,” Shintaro said and turned on his heels to face the door. He glanced back over his shoulder and said, “I’m happy for you and him.”

Kazunari shook his head. “You are just a big softie underneath that I-couldn’t-careless exterior.”

—♡—

Kouki and Seijuro had a big day planned. Well, Seijuro had a big day planned for Kouki as it was his birthday and also the day of the party that Kise and Mibuchi were throwing. They had a few more hours before that was going to happen, but Kouki had a feeling that if the day was going to continue the way it had since the morning, he would be permanently living on cloud nine and walking on sunshine for the rest of his life.

The day had begun with sex. The yummy, delicious toe curling kind. The kind that made you wonder if you and your partner were actually soulmates and destined to meet by the divinity of the sex gods. Perhaps that was a tad bit dramatic, but Kouki had never felt so spoiled and showered with love before in his entire existence. Seijuro may have been one of the most stoic men on the planet, but behind closed doors he was an entirely different person. The pleasure, the excitement, the butterflies, Kouki had melted into a puddle of ecstasy.

After their sex session, they took a bath. A bubble bath, with a fancy bath bomb and Seijuro had Kouki’s favorite breakfast pastries delivered that were laid out on a tray beside the tub. Food in the bathtub, sure, it sounded a bit odd, but then there were mimosas and a laptop playing his favorite baking show. Seijuro insisted that Kouki just enjoy everything and forget any and all questions or doubts. Not usually the way Kouki operated, but he figured it was his twenty-seventh birthday and if his gorgeous boyfriend wanted to indulge him. He’d damn well let him with the biggest and goofiest grin on his face.

After bathing and eating the most delectable pastries, they showered. They fucked. It was fantastic and then they went for a walk to a tasty cafe for coffee. Once they’d finished breakfast, Seijuro told Kouki to get in his car and they drove out of Kyoto. He had absolutely no idea where they were going, but he didn’t care. They had been driving for almost an hour, the city skyscrapers and busy roads slowly turned into hills and forested landscapes. Kouki smiled as he gazed out the window, watching the blur of trees and endless blue sky beckon him to enjoy nature.

“It’s really pretty out here,” Kouki commented, keeping his eyes on the scenery beyond the tinted window. “I’ve been in the city so long I forgot how calming the hills and mountains were.”

“We should make this trip together more often,” Seijuro replied, one hand lazily propped atop the steering wheel while the other rested on the gear shift. “Assuming you enjoy our next activity.”

Kouki glanced at him. “What is our next activity?”

Seijuro smirked. “You’ll see.”

“As the birthday boy, I demand to be told before we arrive.”

“Oh? Listen to you,” Seijuro said with a laugh. “You’ve gotten quite bold, love.”

Kouki’s face heated. “Do you like it?”

“I love it,” Seijuro said, reaching over to place his hand on Kouki’s thigh, his thumb gently brushing across the soft fabric of Kouki’s pants.

“It’s a little embarrassing.”

“Why?”

Kouki shrugged and stifled a laugh. “I’ve never been bold, but I like to be,” he paused and licked his lips, “when I’m with you, because I trust you with all of me.”

Seijuro smiled. “Keep talking like that and I’m going to have to pull over, then we’ll be late the rest of the day.”

Kouki bit the inside of his cheek. “Would that be so bad?”

“Furihata Kouki,” Seijuro said in a husky voice laced with desire. “Behave yourself.”

Kouki laughed and laced his fingers through Seijuro’s. He lifted their hands and placed a kiss on Seijuro’s. They drove on for another five minutes until they pulled onto a narrow gravel road through a perfect line of trees standing sentinel. They came over a hill and Kouki’s eyes widened as a huge manicured field with about a dozen horses behind a white painted fence came into view. “Whoa,” he breathed, leaning forward, seatbelt taut against his chest. Up ahead a large stable with a metal roof sat beautifully before a grassy field and backdropped by mountains and big open sky. To the left of the large horse stable that was pristinely painted white, was a traditional Japanese house with a gorgeous tiled roof. “Are you taking me horseback riding? It’s beautiful.”

“It’s one of my favorite things to do, and I’ve wanted to take you,” Seijuro replied with a small smile. “I have a few horses here.”

“A few?” Kouki repeated in surprise. “I didn’t even know you had horses,” he paused and narrowed his eyes, leaning toward Seijuro. “What is this secret life you’ve been hiding from me, Sei-kun?”

“I’ve told you that I like horses before,” Seijuro said as he pulled into a small parking area where four other vehicles were parked.

“Sure, but not that you owned any.” Kouki unbuckled his seatbelt. “Just so you know, I’ve never ridden a horse before.”

“You’ll be fine, I’ll teach you,” Seijuro assured him as he unbuckled his seatbelt and climbed out of the car. “It’s just like driving a car,” he smiled, leaning down into the car, “with a mind of its own.”

“Well, before I was just a little nervous, now I’m scared,” Kouki frowned and climbed out of the car himself. “I mean they’re so big and powerful. Pretty, but dangerous. And don’t they say horses are really good at reading emotions? What if I’m too tense and—”

“Kouki,” Seijuro said, taking hold of his hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. “Relax, you’ll be fine. This is a riding school and an equine therapy center.”

“Equine therapy?”

Seijuro nodded, leading Kouki toward the stable across the driveway. “It’s a place where horses are used to promote emotional, mental, and in some cases physical health. People that have anxiety or PTSD can really benefit from it.”

Kouki didn’t want to say anything, but the way Seijuro spoke made it seem as though he was speaking from experience. They’d had deep conversations before about Seijuro’s childhood and how he struggled a lot after his mother died and how his father always pushed him to be a perfect son—it’d become part of the reason he was so cold and harsh in high school early on. He’d mentioned going to therapy to deal with his issues and Kouki wondered if this was the place he’d come to. Honestly, Kouki had only been on the property for a whole three minutes and already the natural area, the fresh air, the peace and quiet really put him at ease. The sweet smell of fresh grass, the robust aroma of barn dust, and the clopping of horse hooves on pavement was just grounding.

“Akashi-kun,” an older woman with graying hair pulled back into a low ponytail, walked out of the barn with a giant dapple gray horse. It was huge—Kouki couldn’t even see over its back. “I’m so glad you were able to come by, we’ve missed you around here. You need to come more often.” The woman smiled, holding to a teal colored rope hooked onto the horse’s matching halter.

“It’s good to see you, Tachibana-sensei,” Seijuro said with a bow of his head, then gestured to Kouki. “This is my boyfriend, Furihata Kouki. Kouki, this is Tachibana Himari, she runs this place.”

“Oh, so you’ve finally decided to bring the young man who put stars in your eyes,” Tachibana said, the crow’s feet at her eyes deepening as she smiled brightly and bowed. “It is so nice to finally meet you.”

Kouki’s face heated and his heart fluttered. The young man who put stars in his eyes? Had Kouki really had that much of an impact? It made him feel good. Kouki smiled and bowed his head. “It’s very nice to meet you, Tachibana-san.”

“Have you ever ridden a horse before?” Tachibana asked, glancing at the horse beside her. “This is Goliath.”

The horse—Goliath—snorted, dark brown eyes fixed on Kouki. His ears were erect and forward pointing. Despite his intimidating size, he appeared to be more curious about Kouki than anything. Kouki didn’t know much about horses at all, but he did know that Seijuro used to ride often. He talked about it when they became friends while in college, but he never said much beyond that and Kouki never really asked.

“Complete novice, actually,” Kouki said with a small smile. “I just found out Sei-kun owns a few horses.”

“He doesn’t just own the horses,” Tachibana said. “He owns this facility.”

Kouki’s mouth fell open. He owns it!

“I don’t own it, Tachibana-sensei,” Seijuro corrected, holding up a hand then turned to Kouki. “I am not the owner, I’m a sponsor at best.”

“If it weren’t for you this whole place would have probably closed its doors,” Tachibana said as she patted Goliath’s neck. “So don’t go selling yourself short. Anyway, I have work to do, you guys enjoy yourselves.” She made her way toward the pasture across the street, Goliath walked alongside her, hooves clomping on the pavement.

“Do you also fly and wear a cape, catching bad guys in the dead of night?” Kouki asked, giving Seijuro a deadpan stare.

Seijuro stifled a laugh. “You know exactly what I do in the dead of night, love.” He pulled Kouki close and kissed him. When he pulled away a few beats later, his hand drifted toward Kouki’s ass and he pinched him. Kouki squeaked and Seijuro smirked. “This place is special to me, that’s why I brought you here. I wanted to share it with you.”

Kouki nodded. “Okay, then show me.”

Seijuro laced his fingers through Kouki’s and led him into the stables. A sweet smell hung in the air blended in with the aroma of wet earth. They stopped in the center of the main walkway of the stable that stretched about six stalls down to the left and right. Kouki glanced around, calculating twenty-four stalls, some of which were empty, but several had horses poking their heads over their wood and metal gates. Directly ahead of them was a large room and a staircase, leading to a second level. The whole place was clean, from the concrete ground lined with thick rubber mats to the dust free lanterns hanging off the rafters.

A horse with a blue eye poked its head out of its stall and nickered, stretching toward Kouki. Letting go of Seijuro’s hand, Kouki carefully approached the horse and held out his hand. The horse nuzzled his hand and Kouki grinned. “What’s your name?” Kouki asked in a soft voice and took a step closer, stroking the horse down his muzzle.

“That’s Hideo,” Seijuro said. “It’s good you get along with him, because he’s the one you’ll be riding.”

Kouki continued to pet Hideo—he wasn’t sure what his color pattern was called, but he was white with brown splotches mixed with a few black spots. His mane was long, and a cream color aside from one section that was streaked black. He had a pink snout and mostly white face aside from his right eye and ear that were splotched with a warm chocolate brown color. “He’s unique in his pattern, and he seems friendly.”

“He is, and he seems to like you, so let’s get you on him.”

“Are you sure I should?”

“You’ll be fine,” Seijuro assured him with a pat on the shoulder. “I got you. Trust me.”

—♡—

After an hour of riding around in the sandy arena, Kouki discovered why Seijuro enjoyed riding horses. It was a little bit of everything—a workout for one’s core, stress seemed to melt away as though Hideo was some sort of happy pill, and it was a bit of a confidence boost to form a bond with such a powerful and beautiful creature. Seijuro stood in the middle of the arena, tracking Kouki’s movement as he had Hideo going in a large circle.

Seijuro smiled. “You’re a natural. Keep your heels down and hands relaxed.”

Kouki followed Seijuro’s instructions, keeping his focus ahead of him. It was somewhat like driving a car. And to Kouki’s surprise, his legs did most of the communicating with Hideo. His new horse friend was quite the gentle giant, putting up with Kouki’s nervousness and clumsiness as if it weren’t an issue at all.

“Feeling confident enough to go on a little trail ride?” Seijuro asked.

“I think so,” Kouki replied with a smile. “I see why you enjoy riding. This is way more relaxing than I thought it would be.”

“It brought me a lot of peace,” Seijuro admitted. “Okay, now bring Hideo to a stop.”

Kouki nodded and went into action, light leg pressure, soft pull on the reins. Hideo came to a stop and Seijuro lightly clapped walking over. He stood next to Hideo and held the reins, looking up to Kouki and told him to dismount. Kouki licked his lips and held to the horn of the saddle, swung his leg over then lowered himself to the ground. “So, how’d I do?”

“You did great, we should come here more often, if you’re—”

“I’d love to,” Kouki said as he patted Hideo’s shoulder. “I have a new friend, I have to come visit him.”

Seijuro chuckled and pulled the reins down and over Hideo’s head then handed them to Kouki. “I think we can make that work.”

They made their way across the arena, heading back to the stable that was connected by a breezeway. A few stablehands were cleaning out stalls and each of them greeted them politely, a couple even greeted Seijuro personally, admitting they were happy to see him back. Seijuro thanked them, smiling politely, and bowing his head in appreciation. It didn’t seem rehearsed or automatic either. Just a bit…bashful? And it was a side of Seijuro that Kouki didn’t believe existed. Seijuro was always a calm, confident, and collected person even with all eyes on him, he never wavered. He was a natural at speaking to groups as if it were as easy as tying one’s shoes. Kouki had always admired that about him, it was one of the reasons he’d been attracted to Seijuro in the first place.

They made it to the other end of the stable and Seijuro stopped at the last stall on the right. He glanced at Kouki, then pointed to a post just beyond the open barn door that led out to a grassy space. “You can tie Hideo to that post while I get saddled up.”

Kouki nodded and led Hideo to the post. He tied him the way Seijuro had shown him while they had saddled him earlier. “You wait here,” he said, patting Hideo’s strong neck before going back into the stable, standing in the threshold as Seijuro walked out of the stall with a large horse, a little taller than Hideo was. “So who’s this?” Kouki asked as Seijuro led the horse down the stable toward the center where the feed and tack room was.

“This handsome boy is Toshi,” Seijuro said as he tied him to the post outside of the tack room. “He’s a blood bay gelding that I bought a couple years back.”

“How often do you come here?” Kouki asked, assuming it couldn’t be often as they were typically together during their free time.

“Twice a month, sometimes three.” He walked into the tack room and came back out, brushing down Toshi’s reddish-brown coat. It was so shiny, almost as if he was made of copper and his mane was a raven black that complimented well with the rest of his coloring. “Not nearly enough.”

“Why didn’t you ever bring me before?”

Seijuro paused in his brushing then looked at Kouki, who stared right back at him. He didn’t understand why Seijuro wouldn’t have shown him or said something sooner if it meant so much to him. And it clearly meant a lot if he had saved the place from closing down.

“I mean,” Kouki paused and licked his lips, shrugging his shoulders. “This is important to you, I would have been supportive of you coming here. You know that, right?”

Seijuro nodded. “I do.”

“So why haven’t you told me until now? We’ve been together for a year,” Kouki said, running his fingers through his hair. “It just seems like something you should have shared.”

Seijuro went back to brushing Toshi and let out a soft sight. “I know, and you’re right. I should have, I’m sorry for keeping this from you.”

“I’m not upset,” Kouki said quickly, holding up his hands. “Honest. I’m just confused.”

“I understand,” Seijuro assured him, meeting his eyes for a moment before making his way to the other side of Toshi’s body. “It might sound a bit silly or weird, but this place,” he gestured to the stable around them, “I haven’t really shared it with anyone. It’s not just important to me. This place is my sanctuary, my home, a precious place where I can ground myself when things are dark.”

Kouki could respect that. Some things were so personal it was hard to share them. In a way, Kouki hadn’t really expressed to Seijuro how much  some of his own personal hobbies meant to him. It was somewhat the same situation, Seijuro knew of Kouki’s hobbies, but he had no idea how much effort and thought he’d put into them. Particularly his D&D campaigns. He was a Dungeon Master and used to play every weekend with his friends and older brother until he moved to Kyoto and began dating Seijuro.

And maybe it wasn’t exactly the same, but Kouki loved playing D&D and he’d always wanted to ask Seijuro if he’d be interested. He always chickened out though not wanting Seijuro to think he was too nerdy or weird. “Well, I’m glad you trust me enough to let me be part of it.”

Seijuro turned to face Kouki, his arm resting against Toshi. “This past year with you has taught me a lot about what a healthy relationship is.”

Kouki blushed and stifled a laugh. “Sei-kun, seriously, don’t say things like that I’m not really that sp—”

“You are though,” Seijuro cut him off and walked toward him. “You’re special to me. You said just before we got here that you trust me with all of you.” He grabbed the front of Kouki’s shirt and pulled him closer, their lips nearly touching. “This is me saying the same thing.”

Kouki closed the gap between them.

—♡—

Yukio stood on the balcony of his and Ryota’s apartment, leaning against the railing. About a dozen people were inside, getting all the food together for the party that was set to start in about an hour. They’d finished decorating the roof an hour ago—string lights, chairs, tables, centerpieces—everything was good aside from the food. And Ryota had Kagami Taiga and Himuro Tatsuya slaving away making enough food to essentially feed a small army. Despite all that going on, Yukio couldn’t ignore the weight of the ring back in the pocket of his hoodie. He’d been wanting to ask Ryota to marry him for nearly two months and had mulled over the different ways to do it. He wanted it to be perfect, but that was making him anxious and maybe even a bit insane.

He blew out a breath and rested his head against his folded arms. Part of him really wanted to ask him during the party with everyone around, but another part of him wanted it to be more intimate. The balcony door slid open then closed. Yukio glanced to his right, finding Takao leaning back against the railing with a knowing smirk stretched across his face.

“Don’t,” Yukio said, waggling a finger at him. “Just don’t.”

Takao only laughed.

“I’m conflicted.”

“I know,” Takao replied, looking into the apartment. “And if Kise wasn’t occupied with the party planning, he would have noticed by now.”

“Oh, yeah, for sure,” Yukio laughed.

“My vote is to do it at the party,” Takao said, grinning. “I want to see it.”

Yukio rolled his eyes, staring out at the skyline of the sun, heading in the direction of the horizon line. The evening hours were fast approaching and he still had to shower and change. He ran his fingers through his hair and straightened. “I think I’ll know when the time is right.”

“Of course you will,” Takao said with a nod. “I’m not trying to pressure you.”

“No, I get it,” Yukio said, turning to face Takao, his hand resting on the railing. “I appreciate your support.”

The sliding door opened and Ryota stepped out. “Yu-chan,” he said, smiling and wrapped his arms around Yukio, kissing his temple. “Come on, we have to get ready. The party starts in an hour.”

“Are you sure an hour is enough time for you?” Takao teased.

“Nope, it’s not,” Yukio chimed in, patting Ryota’s arm that was wrapped loosely around his neck. “I hope you already picked your outfit.”

“I have three in mind, come on,” Ryota grabbed Yukio’s hand, dragging him inside. “Takaocchi, don’t let Murasakibaracchi eat any of the sweets.”

“I’ll try my best,” Takao chuckled as he followed them inside.

Ryota pulled Yukio down the hallway toward the bedroom. When they were both in the bedroom, Ryota kicked it closed and then shoved Yukio toward the bed. On the one hand, he was worried about Ryota seeing or feeling the ring box, but on the other hand, he couldn’t say no to some before party sex. Yukio fell back on the bed and Ryota crawled over him, his honeyed eyes gleaming in the late afternoon light that was slowly shifting into the golden hour.

“We have company,” Yukio said, staring up at Ryota.

"Doesn't that make it more exciting?”

Yukio chuckled. “You’re a kinky one, Ryota.”

“You can just admit it’s one of the reasons you love me,” Ryota said as his hand slid down to Yukio’s hardening cock. 

A groan escaped him as Ryota stroked at it. His hand went up, but Yukio quickly flipped him over, so he was beneath him. Mostly to keep the ring hidden, but being on top of Ryota was an added bonus. To ensure the ring remained a secret, Yukio pulled out his hoodie and tossed it onto the burgundy chaise by the window across from them.

“Someone’s in a hurry,” Ryota said with a coy smirk.

“Don’t act like you don’t like it,” Yukio teased as he leaned down, capturing Ryota’s mouth in a passionate kiss. Ryota moaned against the kiss, his hands tracing Yukio’s defined abs and pecs. He smiled as his fingers brushed over Yukio’s pebbled nipples. He nipped at Yukio’s lips then flipped him onto his back. Ryota trailed kisses down Yukio’s jaw and neck, then licked Yukio’s nipple while playfully pinching and twisting the other.

Yukio moaned. Loudly. Ryota chuckled and covered Yukio’s mouth. He shook his head then stroked his cheek with his thumb. “Careful, Yu-chan, we don’t want the others to hear,” he whispered then went back to trailing kisses down his body. When he made it to the waist band of Yukio’s sweats, he yanked them down, allowing his hardened cock to spring free. “Stay quiet now,” Ryota said as he licked Yukio’s length, earning a hiss from him.

“Fuck,” Yukio grumbled as Ryota’s hot mouth sucked his cock. His back arched as the tip of his dick hit the back of Ryota’s throat. He gagged, but continued to suck, his saliva soaking his entire length. The pleasure rippled through his entire body, bringing him to a complete state of bliss. His entire body felt as though it was floating as Ryota sucked on him. “Ryo—!”

Ryota reached up, covering Yukio’s mouth then plunged his fingers into his mouth. A string of saliva stretched from Yukio’s swollen lips to Ryota’s dampened fingers. He pulled back and undid his jeans, pulling them down along with his boxers. “I want your cock inside me, Yu-chan.” Ryota dropped down onto his knees, sucking on Yukio’s hardened cock, pre-cum beading at its tip.

“Damnit,” Yukio hissed and sat up, his fingers threaded through Ryota’s silky blond locks. He gripped tight, eyes focused as Ryota sucked him while fingering his little hole, prepping for him. He nearly couldn’t take it. If Ryota kept up the pace and continued to fuck himself, Yukio was going to lose it. “Enough,” Yukio growled, pulling Ryota off his cock. “Get on the bed.”

Ryota licked his lips and smiled, doing as he was told. He went on all fours, then lowered his front half, ass up as he continued to finger himself. Yukio licked his own fingers then came up behind Ryota, removing Ryota’s fingers to replace them with his own. He thrust them in, moving slowly and deliberately. Ryota moaned, gripping the sheets in his fist as Yukio’s fingers brushed against his spot. Toying with him. Teasing.

“You’re something else, Ryota,” Yukio said, voice gravelly as he moved his fingers in and out of his soft hole. “How long have you been wanting me to fuck you today?”

“I always want you to fuck me, Yu-chan,” Ryota smirked and moaned as Yukio hooked his fingers just enough to rub his prostrate just the right way. The tingles of pleasure built in the pit of his gut, muscles tightening as Yukio wound him up tight. “Shit,” Ryota gasped, burying his face in a pillow as Yukio picked up his speed then leaned forward to stroke Ryota’s cock. He stroked it, rubbing his thumb over the tip, smearing the pre-cum on it then pumped. “Yu-chan!”

Yukio pulled his fingers free then slipped his cock into Ryota’s soft, yet tight hole. He thrust then dragged out slowly. Slapping skin, heavy pants, groans and moans, sweat beading on their bodies. Yukio almost couldn’t take it. He was ready to release himself into Ryota. The man he loved. The man he never wanted to lose. He picked up the pace.

“I’m gonna cum, Yu-chan!” Ryota’s muffled cry filled his ears.

“Together, Ryota,” Yukio said as he picked up speed. Three more thrusts and Ryota came in Yukio’s hand and on the sheets. Yukio hummed with pleasure as his own cum spilled into Ryota. He shivered then pulled out of Ryota, his cum spilling from Ryota’s hole. Yukio laid over his lover, bracing his arm above his head to keep his full weight off of him. “I love you, Ryota.” He placed a kiss on Ryota’s temple.

Ryota smiled and rolled over, latching on Yukio like a baby monkey. Yukio chuckled as Ryota rolled them over so he was straddling him. “Let’s do round two in the shower.”

Yukio sputtered. “We’re hosting, dummy.”

“They’ll be fine, there’s food and stuff.”

Yukio only laughed and let out a breath. “I guess I could be convinced.”

Chapter Text

CHAPTER FIVE

The party had started two hours ago, there were about thirty people in attendance, and Kouki was actually having a great time despite being introverted. Of course, once this party was over he had every intention of hiding away in the bedroom and speaking only with Seijuro. Kise and Mibuchi had outdone themselves by planning everything in the span of two and a half weeks. What was even more impressive was that Kise had gotten most of Seirin to show up—Hyuga, Kiyoshi, Izuki, Riko, Fukuda, Kawahara, Kagami, and Kuroko—were all present then all the Generation of Miracles were in attendance along with their significant others. The old Kaijo team had also come along with Kise’s two older sisters. It was quite the party.

“Next time bring the baby,” Ayame said with a gushing smile as she clasped her hands together while sitting on the cushioned patio furniture. She was Kotaro’s wife and one of the ones being celebrated for expecting her first baby. Kouki had met her two other times and always found her to be the sweetest person. “I just want to pinch his little cheeks!”

Momoi Satsuki, or rather Aomine Satsuki now, laughed. She was sitting beside Ayame sharing pictures of her and Aomine’s baby, who if memory served was almost a year old. They had a little boy last February named Minato. “I thought about it, but this is the first time we were able to go somewhere without him, so we wanted to take advantage.”

“Advantage?” Kise joined in. He took the seat across from them, golden eyes gleaming with mischief. “To make another one?”

“Ki-chan,” Satsuki chided with a waggle of her finger, but then she laughed. “I’d love another one honestly, but not at the moment.”

“Oh? What about Aominecchi?” Kise pressed with a grin.

“Don’t put any ideas in her head, Kise!” Aomine shouted from the table across from where they were all sitting. He walked over, standing beside Kise's chair and eyed Satsuki, who only grinned at him. “Not for another year.”

“Aw, but you two make such cute babies,” Ayame said with a giggle.

“They’ll still be cute a year from now,” Aomine said, taking a swig of his beer. “But I need sleep, Minato wakes up three times a night, and only once on good nights.”

Ayame blinked. “Wow, that’s insane. Good for y’all.”

“Just be prepared,” Satsuki said with a laugh. “Or maybe you’ll get lucky and have a unicorn baby that sleeps through the night with no issues.”

“I don’t think we’ll be that lucky, but I will hope and pray that it will be the case.” Ayame clapped her hands together as if she were praying. She bowed her head slightly, her inky black hair falling over her shoulders. “Any other words of wisdom?”

Kouki quietly left the sitting area and ventured over to the drink table. He grabbed another can of cream soda and popped off the bottle cap, tossing it into the trashcan at the end of the table. He took a sip and inspected the rooftop. String lights hung overhead zigzagging all around, there were even lanterns on the table, adding more light, Kise also had five patio heaters scattered around the space, giving just enough warmth to make things cozy.

Kagami and Himuro had done all the cooking and just like in high school it was all delicious. No one cooked as good as those two and Kouki had to admit he was just a tad bit jealous that Kuroko and Murasakibara got to experience such food nearly every single day. Restaurant quality—Michelin Star rated without question! Kouki took another sip of his drink and spotted the couples he was just thinking about sitting at a table with Midorima and Takao playing a game of cards.

“Check.” Kuroko stared at his cards for a moment then glanced over at Kagami.

He tossed his cards on the table and shook his head. “I fold.”

“Check,” Himuro said, glancing at Murasakibara who was munching on a bag of chips, he waved his hand and tossed his cards away. “Folding?” 

Murasakibara nodded, stuffing more chips into his mouth.

Midorima hummed. “Check.”

Takao clicked his tongue, staring at his hand then to the cards laid out on the table. “Let’s make it interesting boys. I raise.”

“Really?” Midorima grumbled.

“Really, really,” Takao said as he tossed a couple of chips into the pile.

Kuroko stared at Takao for a moment then sank back in his seat. He grabbed a few chips, toying with them before letting out a breath and tossed in his chips. Kagami leaned over, trying to peek at his cards, but Kuroko playfully swatted him away. “Stop cheating, Taiga-kun.”

“Cheating? I folded already,” Kagami sputtered with an eye roll. Kouki had to admit, while he wasn’t exactly shocked that the two of them ended up together, it was sometimes interesting to see. They’d been together longer than anyone else at the party, having been dating since their third year of high school. Kouki liked them together. But really most people who knew them liked them together. They were a good balance of chaos and calm.

“What about you Himuro-kun?” Takao said, practically wiggling in his chair.

Himuro puffed his cheeks and nodded. “Yeah, sure, why not?” He matched the bet and licked his lips.

“Shin-chan?” Takao prodded in a sing-song voice.

“You better have some damn good cards, Kazu-kun.” Midorima tossed his own chips in.

Takao, who also happened to be the dealer this round, grinned and laid out the final card on the table. Kouki wasn’t much of a card player, he’d played a few times, but definitely wasn’t an expert on it. He came closer, standing behind Kuroko and Kagami to get a closer look at the community cards—two fives, a seven, nine, and a Jack.

“Let’s see ‘em gentleman,” Himuro said as he laid out his cards, revealing a six and eight. “I’ve got a straight.”

“Three of a kind,” Kuroko stated, laying out two Jacks. “Clearly not enough.”

“Not bad, not bad,” Takao said, then glanced at Midorima. “And what about you babe?”

“Two pair,” Midorima said, placing down a seven and a nine. “I should have folded.”

“You really should have,” Takao said, splaying out his cards with a gleaming smile. “Four of a kind boys.” He laid down the remaining two five cards on the table.

“Well shit,” Himuro said with a defeated sigh. “Wanna join in, Furi-kun?”

“Oh no,” Kouki said with a laugh, holding up his hands. “I am terrible at poker. You guys keep going though.”

“Everyone is terrible at poker when I’m playing, Furi-kun,” Takao said as he collected the cards, shuffled them, then handed them over to Midorima.

Kouki chuckled and wandered over to the other side of the roof where he spotted Kawahara and Fukuda sitting on a bench that overlooked the Kyoto skyline. He walked over to them and they both greeted him and scooted over to give him room to join them. He took a seat and smiled, thanking them both for making the trip down to Kyoto.

“Of course we’d come,” Kawahara said, clapping Kouki on the shoulder. “It’s your birthday and apparently things are getting pretty serious between you and Akashi.”

Kouki sipped on his drink. “Yeah, I guess it is.”

“We’re happy for you,” Fukuda said, nudging Kouki with his elbow. “You seem more confident and comfortable, not so nervous.”

“Oh trust me, it’s still there,” Kouki assured them. “I may be twenty-seven now, but I’m still a terrified seventeen-year-old at heart.”

“Nah, if that were true you and Akashi never would have gotten together, you’re all grown up Furi.” Kawahara clinked his drink with Kouki’s.

“Does your Hawk Eye work in Poker too?” Kagami hollered from the table across the way.

Takao burst into a fit of laughter and clapped his hands together. “King of the poker table!”

“I’m convinced you're cheating.”

“Don’t be a sore loser, Taiga,” Kuroko chided.

“It’s like he’s psychic or something!”

Midorima scoffed and pushed his glasses up. “I assure you he isn’t.”

“Do you ever miss the old gang?” Fukuda asked as they watched the scene unfold. Kagami jumped up from his chair and carefully examined the area around Takao, commanding him to empty his pockets and roll up his sleeves then to stand up and jump around.

Kouki blinked and stifled a laugh. “I mean, Kagami always did make things interesting.”

“Dang, so you really are happy,” Fukuda said with a shake of his head. “Good for you, Furi.”

Kouki’s brow creased as he looked at both of his friends. “Did you guys think I wasn’t?”

“I just never thought that you and Akashi would become something serious. I don’t mean that in a bad way, either,” Fukuda said. “It sounds bad, but it isn’t. I swear.”

Kouki frowned. He wasn’t really sure how he felt about that little bit of information. Even if Fukuda didn’t mean for it to sound bad, it brought up some old feelings Kouki had been trying to mash way deep down. When people saw Kise and Kasamatsu together, they would always comment on how good they were together, the same could be said for Kagami and Kuroko. They complimented each other, they looked good together, they were a perfect match, but Kouki had never really experienced that for him and Seijuro. He tried not to think about it, but the feeling definitely floated about like a dark storm cloud.

“Hey,” Kawahara patted Kouki on the shoulder, dragging him out of what could have been a ugly downward spiral of insecurity and self-doubt. “What he means is, we miss having you around and while we’re happy for you and think it’s great that you and Akashi are together, we’re a little jealous that he gets you all the time. It’s life, but it still sucks. You two are clearly in love and happy, so we’re happy for you both.”

“Yes, that’s what I meant. Honest. I think you two are great together,” Fukuda clarified with a genuine smile. “I’m just bad at words, which is probably why I don't have a girlfriend.”

“There are no words when a girl talks to you Fukuda. Literally no coherent words come out of your mouth,” Kawahara teased with a chuckle. “It’s embarrassing.”

“Oh? Come on, you get a girlfriend for a whole month and are instantly some sort of dating guru?” Fukuda shot back with an eyeroll.

Kouki’s head snapped in Kawahara’s direction. “Wait!” He held up his hands to silence them both from their little bickering match. “You have a girlfriend, Kawahara?”

“Well, we’ve gone on a few dates, but nothing official yet,” Kawahara explained, scratching at his cheek. “I’m thinking of asking her though.”

“Oh yeah? Tell me more,” Kouki grinned and waved for Kawahara to keep going. “What’s her name? How’d you guys meet?”

“Her name is Hashimoto Reina,” Riko interjected, arms crossed behind her back as she leaned forward slightly, her hair brushed across her shoulders. “She’s one of the trainers at my dad’s gym.”

“Whoa, that’s impressive,” Kouki said, nodding his head. “Do you have pictures?”

Kawahara blushed and pulled out his phone. He scrolled for a beat then turned the screen toward Kouki. She was a pretty girl, long chocolate brown hair, big blue eyes, bright smile, and a slender build. “She’s really nice and pretty cool.”

“So did you introduce them, Riko-san?” Kouki asked.

“Oh no,” Riko said with a wave of her hand. “It was so much better.”

“It was an accident,” Kawahara cut in, holding up his index finger.

“You could almost say her hotness pushed him down the stairs,” Izuki said as he joined in with Kiyoshi and Hyuga in tow. “And Hashimoto-san is so nice she just believed he was concussed and couldn’t speak straight.”

“You guys are making it sound way worse than it actually was,” Kawahara grumbled with a shake of his head.

“No, that’s pretty much exactly how it went.” Riko shrugged and then chuckled. “Might as well have been a scene right out of a romance movie.”

Kawahara’s cheeks turned red. “Yeah, well, it’s all worked out so far.”

Kouki smiled. “I’m happy for you, Kawahara.”

The old team continued to talk for another fifteen minutes, laughing and reminiscing on their high school days. Kouki was happy that all of them remained in touch after so many years. It was impressive that everyone at the party had been friends for such a long time, especially the Generation of Miracles, who’d been friends—more or less—since they were in middle school. And other than all of them growing up and some having become couples, or married, it was just like the old days. To Kouki’s knowledge all of them still played basketball for fun or in Kagami and Aomine’s case professionally—they’d gone on to join Japan’s National Team.

For a moment, it really sank in. Everyone had grown up and was living their lives. Even though they didn’t get to see each other as often, catching up felt really good. He couldn’t believe they were all adults, sometimes he still felt like a teenager, despite having a job, bills, a boyfriend, and a whole onslaught of adult responsibilities. Kouki glanced around the party, everyone was enjoying themselves, laughing, swapping stories, playing games, it was like nothing had changed and yet everything had.

The door to the stairwell opened. Kasamatsu and Seijuro walked out followed by Mibuchi. Kouki noticed that Kasamatsu seemed a bit…off. The top two buttons of his shirt were opened, he raked his fingers through his hair, and he seemed a bit jumpy. His hand went to the pocket of his coat and Kouki’s eyes widened. He quietly excused himself, shuffling over to the trio across the way. They hadn’t gotten far from the door, but something in Kouki’s gut told him that Kasamatsu was going to propose to Kise in front of all their friends.

“You’re going to pass out,” Mibuchi chided Kasamatsu, patting him on the back. “You don’t have to do it here.”

“No, no,” Kasamatsu said, swallowing hard. His blue eyes flicked over to Kise who was standing near the food table, talking with Hayakawa and Moriyama. “I want to.”

“Want some liquid courage?” Seijuro asked. “It might help.”

Kasamatsu shook his head. “Nope, I’m doing this completely sober.”

Kouki joined in, his eyes drifting to each of them then stopped on Kasamatsu who peaked over his shoulder then pulled the ring box out. Kouki smiled. “You’re going for it?”

Kasamatsu took in a deep breath then slowly exhaled. He straightened and nodded before clapping Kouki on the shoulder then with a nervous type of confidence strode across the rooftop to where Kise was with their friends and his older sisters.

“Did you know?” Kouki asked, looking at Mibuchi.

“Yeah, I did,” Mibuchi replied with a nod, eyes still on Kasamatsu. “A week ago he told me he wanted to propose at the party, so I made sure his sisters and their old teammates came along.”

Kouki grinned. “Do they know?”

“Absolutely.” Mibuchi beamed.

Kouki laughed and shook his head as the scene before him unfolded. Seijuro stood close to him, his arm snaking around his waist and pulling him in close. The sweet and sultry scent of his smoky citrus aroma nearly intoxicated him. Seijuro pressed a soft kiss to Kouki’s temple then in a low, warm whisper he said, “I love you.”

Kouki turned his head and pressed his lips on Seijuro’s for a moment then pulled away. “I love you too, Sei-kun.”

“Don’t steal, Kasamatsu’s thunder now, Sei-chan,” Mibuchi said.

Kouki’s brow creased, his heart skipped a beat. What does that mean?

“I would never do that, Reo,” Seijuro said with a shake of his head.

Kasamatsu stood alongside Kise , trembling and probably giving himself some sort of mental pep talk. He laced his fingers with Kise’s, who glanced down at him and smiled brightly. Kasamatsu said something to him, then pulled him over toward the edge of the roof. The pair were off to the side, but still very clearly in everyone’s sightline. They leaned against the railing and talked, Kise smiling and Kasamatsu laughing. They were just so happy together and Kouki was thrilled he’d be able to witness the next big step of their relationship.

Mibuchi ran over to the poker table where Takao was still playing with the others. Everyone stopped after Mibuchi informed them of what was going to happen. He nodded in the direction of Kise and Kasamatsu and everyone seemed both shocked and excited as they paused their game to watch.

Nearly everyone on the roof was watching the scene unfold as Kasamatsu and Kise casually spoke to one another. Kise seemed none-the-wiser as Kasamatsu appeared to be spinning some sort of tale to keep Kise from noticing all eyes were on them. Literally, everyone at the party was watching with rapt attention.

Kasamatsu took a step back from the railing and reached into his pocket. Kise hadn’t seemed to notice and pointed up at the sky where a few stars glittered in the night sky. It was like a sign, because it was always hard to see the stars in the city. Kasamatsu took another step back and pulled out the ring box as he got down on one knee.

“Oh my,” Kouki grinned as the whole space fell silent aside from the faint rumble of the street noise down below.

“Ryota,” Kasamatsu said.

Kise turned around and stumbled back, hands covering his face. He turned away, taking a few steps, then turned back around, golden eyes and mouth wide open. He dropped onto his knees and covered his face again, a few soft sobs escaped him. Kasamatsu remained across from him, still on one knee, still holding out the ring box, a small smile on his face.

“Marry me,” Kasamatsu said, eyes just a tad glassy. “Let’s spend the rest of our lives together.”

Kise stared right at Kasamatsu. Not at the ring. Not at anyone else. Just the man proposing forever together. He let out a shaky breath and nodded, tears rolled down his cheeks as he scrambled forward and tackled Kasamatsu. His arms wrapped around Kasamatsu's neck as he repeated the words ‘yes, yes, yes’ over and over again. Kasamatsu hugged Kise back, still holding the open ring box in hand. A laugh escaped him as he lovingly stroked the back of Kise’s head.

The two stayed wrapped up in one another for another ten seconds before finally breaking apart to stand. Of course, Kise latched onto Kasamatsu again, squeezing so tight it looked as though Kasamatsu might be struggling to breathe.

“You really wanna stay with me forever?” Kise’s question was muffled as he buried his face into Kasamatsu’s shoulder.

“Of course, dummy,” Kasamatsu said with a chuckle as he rubbed Kise’s back.

“I love you.”

“I know, I love you too.” Kasamatsu chuckled. “We have an audience by the way.”

“I don’t care,” Kise replied, practically climbing Kasamatsu like he was a tree.

“Well, that’s how you know Ryota-kun is a keeper,” Mibuchi said with a light-hearted laugh. “He doesn't even care about the ring or audience.”

Eventually, Kise let go of Kasamatsu and everyone got to properly congratulate them. Then the party went back to drinks and laughs and enjoying one another’s company whilst celebrating many of their greatest achievements. It went on for another three hours before the midnight hour rolled in.

Everyone pitched in to help clean-up the rooftop, collecting the trash, packing up leftover food, folding the table clothes to bring back inside. Kouki was outside, packing the lantern decorations into a box. Aside from the string lights, everything else had been put away as if the party had never even happened. And Kouki was a little sad it was over, he had such a great time with everyone. Although, he was looking forward to going home and snuggling in bed with Seijuro.

“Thanks for helping, Furi-kun,” Kise said as he walked over, gathering up the last two lanterns on one of the other tables. He handed them over and Kouki took them, placing them into the back before closing it. “I hope you had a good time.”

Kouki laughed. “Of course I did. Good food, drinks, cake, and a proposal. You and Mibuchi-kun could start an event planning service.”

Kise glanced down at his hand, ring on his finger, stars in his eyes. He was over the moon with excitement and joy. It was much deserved too. “You knew he was going to propose, didn’t you?”

“Not that he was going to do it tonight, but he had shown me your ring a while back. Asked me how he should propose to you too.”

“Well, should Akashicchi ever ask me for that advice, I will be sure to make it grand.”

Kouki shook his head. “I don’t think that we’d get married.”

“What? Why not?” Kise frowned. “Do you not want to?”

“Oh, I…no! It’s not that I wouldn’t…I just…I’m just…it’s complicated, you know? We are—”

“Totally in love and happy together,” Kise interjected with a smile. “Furi-kun, I told you this before, Akashicchi loves you exactly as you are. He’s never been the type to play games, he’s always honest and genuine, almost to a fault. I’m calling it right now, that you two will be married one day.”

“You really think so?” Kouki asked.

“I don’t think,” Kise said, placing a hand on Kouki’s shoulder. “I know it’s going to happen. You two just work. And you can bet I will say I fucking told you so when it happens.” Kise winked and grabbed the box of lanterns. “Come on, everyone’s downstairs, Yu-chan and I will handle the lights tomorrow.”

“Hey Kise-kun,” Kouki said as Kise started walking away.

“Yeah?” He stopped and looked back at Kouki.

“Thank you.”

Kise winked. “Don’t mention it, I’m rooting for the two of you.”

Kouki knew Seijuro loved him. And he loved him right back. They were undoubtedly happy together, got along, shared similar hobbies, and things were easy. They knew how to fight with one another if things got difficult, they listened to one another and always tried to meet in the middle. Kouki had always believed that was the makings of a strong foundation to a relationship. His parents, who had been married for thirty-five years, always told him that if the bones of the relationship are strong, nothing could bring it down.

They made it back into the apartment, mostly everyone had already left with the exception of Midorima, Takao, Kagami, Kuroko, Aomine, Satsuki, Mibuchi and Seijuro. They were all sitting in the living room, having casual conversation, discussing how they definitely needed to get everyone together again.

“We should go camping,” Takao said. “Kagami and Himuro can do all the cooking.”

“Or, you guys could all learn how to cook so it doesn’t always have to be me and Tatsuya,” Kagami interjected with an eyeroll. “Being able to nourish oneself is a life skill you know.”

“But you two are the best cooks in all of Japan,” Kuroko chimed in, leaning his head against Kagami’s arm.

Kagami opened his mouth then closed it as he glared down at Kuroko who gave him a sad puppy dog look. “Maybe.”

Aomine snorted. “So whipped.”

Kagami glared. “You’re one to talk, you carried your wife in here cause her feet hurt.”

“You should see him with the baby,” Satsuki giggled.

“Not helping, babe,” Aomine grumbled.

“So underneath all that lazy gruff and crude behavior is an ooey-gooey center,” Midorima teased.

Aomine glared at him. “It’s time to go Satsuki, I’ve had my fill of these guys.”

“You say that now and then in a few days, you’ll get all upset because none of them are texting you.” Satsuki shook her head.

“Wow, you have gone soft, Aominecchi,” Kise grinned.

Aomine didn’t even bother to respond, he just made his way to the door, grabbing Satsuki’s coat off the hook. “Let’s go, Satsuki.” He turned around and sighed, looking at Kise. “Congratulations and stuff.”

Kise nodded. “Thanks.”

“It was fun to see you all again, we should do this more often.” Satsuki rose from the couch and waved to everyone. She made her way toward the door, stopping in front of Kise and gave him a hug. “I’m happy for you,” she smiled and pulled away then looked over to Kasamatsu, “for both of you, thanks for hosting.”

“Anytime,” Kise replied with a wink.

Aomine and Satsuki left a few moments later. The remaining members talked for a few more minutes before everyone slowly started to leave until only Kise, Kasamatsu, Kouki, and Seijuro were left. They were lounging on the couches, the time just a quarter past midnight. Kouki could definitely feel the sleepiness coming over. He was ready to shower and crawl right into bed. It had been a great night and an even better birthday.

“We should head home,” Seijuro said, glancing at Kouki. “It’s late.”

Kouki yawned and nodded. “Yeah, I’m ready to go to bed.”

“Thanks for throwing this party for everyone, Ryota,” Seijuro said as he stood from the couch. “And congratulations to the both of you, make sure you rest before celebrating on your own.”

Kasamatsu groaned, his face turning the slightest hint of pink while Kise only laughed.

Kouki shook his head and rose to his feet. “See you at work Kasamatsu-kun, and I’m sure I’ll see you there too Kise-kun.”

“Of course,” Kise replied. “Be safe going home.”

After putting on their coats, Seijuro and Kouki left the apartment and made their way down the hall toward the elevator. Seijuro pressed the down button and turned to look at Kouki, who looped his arm through Seijuro’s. He let out a relaxed breath and rested his head against Seijuro’s shoulder. Seijuro smiled and kissed the top of Kouki’s head.

“Did you have a good birthday?” Seijuro asked him just before the elevator door dinged then opened. They stepped inside the car and Seijuro pressed the button for the ground floor.

“I did,” Kouki answered with a sleepy smile. “It was really nice to see everyone again. I didn’t realize how much I missed my old team.”

Seijuro hummed. “You should spend time with them when we go to Tokyo next month.”

“We will,” Kouki said, looking up at Seijuro. “I want you to come with me and spend time with my friends too.”

“I would love to,” Seijuro replied with a bright smile.

Chapter Text

CHAPTER SIX

Kouki blew a strand of his brown hair from his face as he sat on the couch, legs propped on the leather ottoman and twirling a stylus in his hand as he stared at his drawing tablet. He hummed as he placed his stylus on the screen, making a few quick strokes to add in some shading to the artwork he’d spent the last two hours creating. It wasn’t a piece for work, more of a personal project he did when he wanted to zone out. He glanced at the clock on the wall—10:30 AM. Seemed like a good time to go get some coffee. Seijuro had left an hour ago to meet with someone about a building he was planning on buying for his charity he ran. He had said he’d be back by noon and would bring food so they could have lunch together.

Kouki turned off his tablet and set it aside, slipped off his drawing glove and rose to his feet to stretch. He’d already gotten dressed in some jeans and a cozy white sweater. It was his favorite time of year, he enjoyed the cooler weather—the time to wear cozy socks and sweaters while drinking butterscotch coffee by a window on an overcast day. And it just so happened to be exactly that type of day and the only thing he was missing was his butterscotch coffee. Of course, he had every intention of remedying that. The good thing about living in Seijuro’s apartment complex was that it was close to everything Kouki enjoyed—coffee, books, art supplies, and ramen.

He grabbed his keys from the glass bowl on the entry way table, stepped out of his comfy house shoes and into his well-worn sneakers. Sure they were scuffed, frayed, and certainly not the vibrant red they once were, but they were perfectly suited to his feet. He stuffed his keys and wallet into the back pocket of his jeans then went to unlock the door. Just as he opened it, Kouki gasped and placed a hand on his chest when his eyes fell upon Akashi Masaomi.

“Good morning, Furihata-san,” Masaomi said, voice flat…robotic perhaps. He wore a finely tailored navy suit that was clearly made to fit him perfectly. His tie was satin and a deep maroon color that stuck out vividly against his crisp white button down.

“Akashi-san,” Furihata greeted with a small smile and a humble bow of his head. “I didn’t know—well, Seijuro-kun isn’t here.”

“Good, I’m here to speak with you anyway and it’s better if my son isn’t around.” Masaomi clasped his hands behind his back and stared down his nose at Kouki. He wasn’t much taller than him, perhaps two inches taller. His build was thin, but despite that he was still rather intimidating. Interestingly enough, Seijuro and his father shared no resemblance. Where Seijuro had red hair and red eyes, his father had black hair and dark brown eyes.

Kouki licked his lips, trying to mash down all the surprise and nervousness building within him. Had he met Masaomi before? Yes. However, Seijuro was there and it was a brief meeting, only a ten minute casual conversation about weather and jobs.

“Will you be inviting me in?” Masaomi inquired with a raised eyebrow.

“Oh, I’m sorry, yes,” Kouki stammered out and stepped aside. “Please, come in. Make yourself comfortable.”

“Thank you,” Masaomi said as he crossed the threshold and slipped off his shoes. 

He ventured straight in as if he owned the place, making his way into the living room where he glanced around at the furniture. A few seconds later, he approached the bookshelves and skimmed the spines of the books—the majority of them belonged to Kouki. He paused at a small table, desk space in the middle of the shelving unit. Seijuro had placed eight photographs, four of which were of himself and Kouki, while the others were of Seijuro with his Rakuzan team and the Generation of Miracles. Masaomi grabbed one of the photos, the last one on the desk, the one of Seijuro’s mother—Akashi Shiori. He placed it down then turned toward the windows, the drapes had been tied back allowing in the hazy light from outside.

While Masaomi inspected the living space, his attention went to Kouki’s work space tucked in the corner of the room, he plucked out his phone to message Seijuro. He typed three simple words: Your Father’s here. He sent it and quickly tucked his phone back into his pocket before making his way out of the entrance hall and back into the living room. Thankfully, he’d fixed the throw pillows and folded his blanket before he’d decided to go get coffee. His tablet and stylus laid neatly on the ottoman.

Masaomi turned back to Kouki, face expressionless. Would it have killed him to give a little hint of annoyance or approval or something? He glanced at the drawing tablet then back at Kouki. “What is it you do again?”

Kouki blinked. “I, um, well, I’m an artist. I do character and scene design for an animation studio and some animations as well.”

“I see,” Masaomi replied, voice calm and stoic. His stance had relaxed a tiny bit, but still he was rigid. He glanced at the kitchen and made his way over to the round table across from the kitchen island. It was in the small nook that had a large window viewing both the balcony area as well as more of the Kyoto skyline. In the middle of the table was a vase of flowers—pink lilies—Seijuro had bought for Kouki the other day.

“Would you like some tea? Coffee?” Kouki tried, keeping his distance by standing on one side of the kitchen island.

Masaomi turned to face him, his eyes drifting to the open shelves where all the tableware was neatly and cleanly stacked. “Tea would be nice.”

Kouki nodded then gestured to the nook's table. “Of course, please take a seat.”

Masaomi obliged, pulling out one of the cushioned chairs. When he sat down, he rested his arms on the table and watched Kouki, who started gathering the necessary items to make tea. Neither one said anything for several minutes, but Kouki’s mind was buzzing with a hundred different questions and thoughts. When he placed the kettle on the stove, he turned around to meet Masaomi’s gaze.

“How long have you been living here with my son?” Masasomi asked, sitting with perfect posture.

“Uh, almost a month now,” Kouki replied, trying his best to sound relaxed. He had a gut feeling he was failing miserably. And under normal circumstances that would have been fine, but given that it was Akashi Masaomi—Seijuro’s father, a stupidly rich business man, who came from a life of wealth and success—nothing about it was fine. Then there was Kouki…just an everyday guy.

“And you’ve been dating for over a year?” Masaomi asked, lacing his fingers together.

Kouki smiled. “Yes, that’s right. We started dating last October.”

“Why are you with my son?” Masaomi said, his tone bordering on suspicion and doubt. The look on his face resembled that of someone who lacked trust. It was as if Masaomi didn’t believe that Kouki’s feelings were genuine for his son.

Kouki wasn’t sure if he should be offended for himself or Seijuro. Maybe for both of them. “I uh…what…I don’t understand. I’m…I love your son, Akashi-san. Is there any other reason to be with a person?”

Masaomi snorted, leaning back in his seat, the chair creaked at the shift. “Money. Status. Appearances. Obligations. There are plenty of reasons.”

Kouki opened his mouth then closed it. Was it getting hot in the room? The kettle on the stove began whistling and Kouki quickly turned around and not just to stop the noise, but to not have to look at Masaomi. That scrutinizing gaze was unrelenting. The way his dark eyes locked onto Kouki’s entire person was just nerve-wracking. He could feel the sweat starting to coat his body with each passing second. And Masaomi’s eyes were definitely burning holes into the back of his head.

He made the tea, hands trembling. A couple of minutes later, he finished and lifted the tray he had everything set on. Kouki licked his lips, gave himself a mental pep talk to just be confident and breathe like a normal person, then turned on his heels and made his way to the table. It was undoubtedly the longest walk of his life, because Masaomi stared at him…no, he studied him like he was some sort of specimen under a microscope. Masaomi was like a damn shark that smelled the blood in the water and was ready to snap him in two.

“He hasn’t said much to me about you,” Masaomi explained as Kouki placed a cup of tea before him. “And aside from the barbecue this summer, I knew nothing. Not your name, age, what you looked like, nothing at all.”

Kouki had to admit that information surprised him. Even if Seijuro and his father weren’t on the best of terms, he couldn’t believe he wouldn’t have said anything about him. Surely, he would have at least told him his name. Maybe show him a picture? He avoided Masaomi’s stare as he placed some sugar and cream on the table then turned away to put the tray back on the kitchen counter.

“I’m not entirely surprised by it, but I see now why he did this.” Masaomi dropped a sugar cube into his tea then some cream before mixing it.

“What do you mean?” Kouki asked, standing in the middle of the kitchen. His heart pounded like a war drum in his chest. Was Seijuro ashamed? No…he wasn’t…maybe at one time, but…Kouki bit the inside of his cheek and slowly returned to the table, taking the seat across from Masaomi.

“You’re not the person he needs.”

Kouki’s chest tightened. He could feel the blood draining from his face. His shoulders were stiff as he stared back at Masaomi confused, hurt, and maybe even a bit angered. The man before him knew nothing about him, nor did he really know Seijuro and yet the words he spoke shattered him like glass. The very things Kouki used to think, Masaomi spouted them with complete disregard of Kouki’s feelings.

“He’s an Akashi and that means something. He can’t be with someone like you.”

A knot formed in Kouki’s gut. Heavy. Tight. Painful.

“You seem like a good person, but you are not enough for him. I looked into you, my son must be with someone different. You were average in school, average in sports, average family, average everything. My son cannot be with someone who is average.”

Kouki couldn’t believe how rude and blatant Masaomi was being. Seijuro had always told him that his father was strict and his expectations were high, but this was a whole other level. Kouki shook his head, his hands wrapping tightly around the cup of tea before him. “I don’t, um, what is it that you’re saying, sir?”

“Break -up with my son,” Masaomi said, voice firm.

Kouki’s brow creased. “What? I…you want me to end things?”

“Correct.”

Kouki swallowed hard and shook his head. “Uh, no, I won’t.”

Masaomi’s eyes narrowed. “You won’t?”

“I love your son, so no I can’t do that.”

“Can’t?”

Kouki let out a shaky breath. He just wanted to wake up from whatever hellish nightmare he was having. None of this could be real. Surely, his boyfriend’s father was not sitting in their home and demanding Kouki end things with Seijuro.

“Listen, I understand that you love my son, but it is for the best. He will realize the errors of his ways soon enough.”

“The only way I will leave him is if he’s unhappy with me.”

“I see,” Masaomi said, then took a small sip of his tea. “So there is no way for me to convince you to leave him?”

“No.”

“You will never be enough. I’m sorry to say, but it is the truth of the matter. For his sake and reputation, I am asking you to end things with Seijuro.”

The front door opened, closed, then fast footsteps. Kouki repeated over and over in his mind to not cry. He heard Seijuro speaking, but didn’t register a single word he said. His eyes burned. His heart ached. His stomach twisted in tight knots.

Masaomi and Seijuro were talking. What they were saying? Kouki didn’t know. He sat there for what felt like hours, everything around him crumbling and fading into a blur of shapes and colors. Kouki stood from the table then ran.

Kouki didn’t have the slightest clue where he was going. All that mattered was getting away and just being able to breathe again. He didn’t wait for the elevator, he just took the stairs, moving as fast as his feet could carry him. When he finally made it to the ground floor, he was panting, sweating, and had tunnel vision. He walked across the lobby of the apartment complex then stumbled out onto the sidewalk.

The chilly November air brushed against his face, tousling his hair as he looked left then right and across the street. Without thinking, Kouki bolted across the street. Thankfully no one was driving down the road at that moment. He ran for a couple more blocks, still no destination in mind.

His mind continued to replay Masaomi’s words over and over in his head. Tears spilled from his eyes as he continued running. His lungs burned, his muscles tightened, but he just kept going. He weaved through people, muttering apologies if he bumped into them. He whipped around a corner and gasped, grasping a hold of someone before practically running them over.

Kouki panted heavily and staggered back, placing a hand on his chest. “I’m…I…I’m so…I’m sorry.”

“Furi-kun?”

Kouki met steely blue eyes, short black hair, and a worried frown—Kasamatsu. It was at that moment, Kouki realized he’d run about seven blocks. He reached out to a nearby lamp post and leaned against it, still panting, sweat beaded on his brow. He wiped it away and closed his eyes, trying to stop all the negative thoughts, questions, and Masaomi’s words.

“What’s wrong? Why are you crying?” Kasamatsu asked, standing beside Kouki. “Are you okay?”

The convenience store doors opened and a flash of blond caught the corner of Kouki’s eye. “Furi-kun?” Kise came over and placed a hand on his back. “What happened?” That question seemed more directed to Kasamatsu than Kouki.

“I’m fine, um, I’m sorry, I have to…” Kouki trailed off and tried to walk away, but Kise grabbed his wrist, holding him in place. Kouki’s head hung as more tears fell then he collapsed onto his knees.

“Furi-kun.” Kise knelt down beside him, rubbing his back in a comforting manner then looked up at Kasamatsu. “Where’s Akashichi?”

Kouki shook his head and wiped away his tears. “I have to go.” He jumped to his feet and raced away, not giving Kise the chance to stop him again.

“Wait! Furi-kun!” Kasamatsu called out, but he never slowed down nor did look back. 

He just kept running.

And the next thing he knew, he was on a train.

Chapter Text

CHAPTER SEVEN

“What the hell did you say to him?” Seijuro seethed, respect and politeness be damned, his father hurt the man he loved. “Why are you in our home?”

Akashi Masaomi stood beside the table in the small nook of the kitchen. His face was devoid of emotion. No remorse. No sympathy. Nothing. That was the type of man he was—unfeeling and cold. He hadn’t always been that way, but when Seijuro’s mom passed away, he changed. And still after all the time that had passed, Masaomi hadn’t softened or gained any perspective. At one time, Seijuro used to understand and forgave his father for the torment he put Seijuro through as a kid and teenager. He wouldn’t forgive him this time. 

He couldn’t.

Seijuro came forward, stopping just an arm's length from his father. He narrowed his eyes and shook his head. “What have you done?”

Masaomi closed his eyes and let out a heavy sigh. “What you couldn’t.”

Seijuro’s fist clenched at his sides, his blood boiled beneath his skin. “Damn you, Father.”

“I beg–”

“Shut-up,” Seijuro growled. “You do not get to choose who I love or who I will spend the rest of my life with.”

Masaomi’s lips pressed into a thin white slash across his face, dark eyes filled with both confusion and shock. He raked his fingers through his dark brown hair and met Seijuro’s gaze. “You are an Akashi.”

“Is reputation all that matters to you?” Seijuro shot back. He refused to listen to his father’s nonsense about appearances and social class. None of that fucking mattered to Seijuro, it never had and it almost cost him his friends. He wouldn’t let this same bullshit take away the love of his life.

“Seijuro–”

“Answer the fucking question.” Seijuro stared back at his father, eyes cold and unforgiving.

Masaomi’s brow creased for a brief moment, the corners of his mouth twitched in a frown, but he quickly stood tall, head up and shoulders back. “Reputation must come first. We don’t get the luxury of—”

“Who decided that?” Seijuro snapped back, shaking his head. “Reputation doesn’t mean a damn thing if you aren’t happy.”

“Happiness is—”

“All that matters,” Seijuro interjected as he turned away from his father. He had to go after Kouki, his father wouldn’t be reasoned with. He’d already tried several times before. This wasn’t the first time Masaomi had the nerve and audacity to tell Seijuro to break things off with Kouki. In fact, this was the third time he had been so awful. It hurt Seijuro to know that his father cared more about the family name than his own happiness. Although, maybe he shouldn’t have been so surprised, this had been going on since Seijuro’s first year of middle school.

“Seijuro,” his father called out.

He stopped and glanced over his shoulder.

“I know you love him,” Masaomi explained in a soft tone. “But he will never be enough. He’ll never be—”

“He’s more than enough, Father,” Seijuro retorted and turned around, looking his father dead in the eye. “I will spend forever with him. And you can’t stop me.” With those words, Seijuro made his way to the front door and exited the apartment with only one intention: find Kouki and promise him forever.

He made it to the end of the hall and pressed the down button for the elevator. The doors opened a few beats later and he stepped inside, hitting the ground floor. When the carriage began moving, Seijuro licked his lips and reached into the pocket of his coat. He pulled out the navy velvet box and opened it, revealing the simple, yet elegant silver band. He’d been purchasing the ring when he’d received Kouki’s text. Damn his father for being a fucking fool.

When the carriage made it to the ground floor, Seijuro closed the ring box and placed it back within the pocket of his coat. The doors slowly parted and he stepped out, making his way across the lobby. At the front door, he stood on the sidewalk, looking left then right and straight ahead. He had no idea where to begin, so he pulled out his phone and called Kouki.

Ring…

Ring…

Ring…

“Akashicchi!” Kise’s voice came over the phone, more worried sounding than anything.

“Is he with you?” Seijuro asked, his grip tight on his red phone as he stared straight ahead at the bustling shops and cafes.

“No, he was really upset and took off,” Kise explained in a solemn tone. “He dropped his phone. Yu-chan and I tried to stop him, but…what happened, Akashicchi?”

“Where are you?”

“Nijo Station,” Kise replied. “He got on a train.”

“Where to?” Seijuro asked, heading in the direction of the train station. It was about a ten minute walk to the station. He weaved through the few clusters of people, making it to the crosswalk just as it allowed pedestrians through.

“I don’t know,” Kise said. “Yu-chan is trying to find out.”

“Wait there, I'm on my way.” Seijuro hung up the phone, tucked it into his pocket, and started running.

After cutting through the crowds and racing down the sidewalk, Njio Station finally came into view. Despite the cool December air, Seijuro’s brow had a few beads of sweat. He stopped across the street, panting and wiping away the sweat at his brow with the sleeve of his coat. Across the street, standing at the front entrance beneath the metal lettering reading Nijo Station were Kise and Kasamatsu.

Seijuro ran across the street to them the second the light allowed him to cross. He stopped in front of them and ran his fingers through his hair. They both appeared to be worried, which made sense. Kouki was always a bit shy and nervous, but he wasn’t the type to just run without warning.

“I asked the attendant at the ticket booth where his train was going,” Kasamatsu said, hands stuffed into the pocket of the hoodie he wore. “She said he purchased a ticket to Shinagawa.”

“He’s going home,” Seijuro replied and took a deep breath. “That’s where hsi family lives.”

Kise frowned. “Why is he going home? What happened?”

“My father said things to him.”

Kasamatsu’s eyebrows knitted together. “Your father?”

“Oh no,” Kise said, sadly.

Seijuro shook his head. “I don’t know what he said to him, but I assume he told him that things needed to be over between the two of us and I wouldn’t put it past him to have belittled him in the process.”

“Why would your father have done that?” Kise asked. “Kouki is a great guy.”

“I don’t know,” Seijuro said. It was the honest truth, aside from coming from a middle class family Kouki was a perfect match for Seijuro. He had a master’s degree, he had a good job, he had a clean record, he was well-mannered and polite, he was attractive, and above all else he made Seijuro happy. And at the end of the day, if he was happy that was all that should have mattered to his father.

But it didn’t.

Seijuro turned to the ticketing booth just inside the station. Shinagawa City was in Tokyo. Kouki had mentioned it a couple of times, but he had never specifically told Seijuro where his family home was. He knew the passcode to Kouki’s phone, he could just call and ask his family where they were. Then again, that would be an incredibly awkward conversation to have.

“You’re going after him right, Akashicchi?”

“Yes.” Seijuro made his way to the ticket line.

“Hold on,” Kasamatsu cut in, following Seijuro. “Shinagawa isn’t exactly small, it’ll be like finding a needle in a haystack.”

“We have his phone,” Kise said, holding up Kouki’s phone. “If you know the passcode we can call his family.”

“I’ve never spoken or met any of his family members,” Seijuro admitted. In the past it never seemed like a big deal. He stopped at the end of the line, four people were ahead of them. “I know someone who knows where he lives.” He pulled out his phone, scrolling through his contacts.

Kuroko Tetsuya. Seijuro clicked his name and hit the phone icon. He almost went with texting, but it would be easier to just ask. One the second ring, Tetsuya answered, “Akashi-kun? It’s unlike you to call.”

“I know, I’m sorry to disrupt your weekend,” Seijuro said. “I have a favor to ask.”

“What is it?”

“Do you know where Kouki’s family lives?”

“Yes.”

“Can you send me the address?”

“What’s going on?”

Seijuro closed his eyes and licked his lips. The next person in line approached the woman at the booth. He cleared his throat. “I need to find him, he left and I believe he’s going home to his family.”

“I see,” Tetsuya replied in a saddened tone. “He’s a good person and really loves you.”

A small tinge of pain formed in his chest. “I know.”

“I’ll send you the address,” Tetsuya replied. “Please be good to him, Akashi-kun.”

“Thank you, Tetsuya.” Seijuro hung up the phone and as promised, Tetsuya texted the address a moment later. He opened the message and input the address into his GPS. He was next in line, he turned back around, finding Kise and Kasamatsu behind him. “I’ll take his phone.”

“We’re coming too.” Kise grinned, holding Kouki’s phone out to Seijuro. Kasamatsu only sighed, but shrugged and agreed with his fiance’s declaration.

Seijuro blinked. “You two want to come?”

“Furi-kun is our friend and so are you,” Kise replied with a shrug. “Besides, I made a bet with him and I can’t lose.”

Seijuro wasn’t completely sure what Kise was talking about, but he wouldn’t mind the company and the support. He gave a weak smile and bowed his head to them both. “Thank you.”

—♡—

Kouki sat in the back of the resin car he was in, head laying against the window, watching the blur of city go by as he left Kyoto. He wasn’t sure why he was running away, but he just needed to go somewhere and the only place he could think of was home. Unfortunately, in the rush he’d lost his phone, but it was fine. He didn’t want to talk to anyone at the moment and what did he really have to say to Seijuro.

“You’re not the person he needs.”

Kouki closed his eyes, trying to push the words out of his mind.

“He’s an Akashi and that means something. He can’t be with someone like you.”

Tears welled in his eyes. All the insecurities and doubts he’d always had being said by another person. And not just anyone, but Seijuro’s own father. Even if they didn’t have the greatest relationship and Seijuro didn’t care for his father, his opinions mattered. At least a little bit. Didn’t they?

“May I join you, Furi-kun?”

Kouki’s eyes snapped open and he looked toward the person who spoke to him. He quickly wiped away his tears, his bleary vision clearing to reveal Mubichi Reo. Kouki had been on the train for a little over half an hour and he hadn’t seen him that whole time.

“It seems that you could use the company.” Mibuchi gave a small smile.

Kouki sniffled and nodded. “Please sit.”

Mibuchi sat down beside Kouki. “You don’t have to tell me what happened, but I’ll listen if you need someone to talk to.”

Kouki appreciated the gesture. It was probably a good idea, but he honestly didn’t know how to explain what happened or how he felt about it. Conflicted. Hurt. Angry. Confused. Defeated. Sad. Those were only some of the things he was feeling. All of it swirled within him until all that was left was an empty numbness that radiated from his core throughout his whole body.

“Where are you going?” Mibuchi asked after a couple of minutes of silence lapsed between them.

Kouki leaned back against his seat, eyes focused out the window. The city had gone away, leaving fields and trees with hills in the distance. He swallowed the lump in his throat. “Home.”

“Where’s that?”

“Shinagawa.”

Mibuchi nodded. “I’m heading to Minato City,” he replied with a smile. “I’m going home for a few days.”

“I didn’t know you were from Minato City.”

“Yeah, born and raised until I went to Rakuzan, of course.”

“And then you stayed in Kyoto,” Kouki pointed out. “Why?”

Mibuchi chuckled. “Well, I stayed because my friends were there and they were the family I needed.”

Kouki could understand that, except he did the exact opposite. His family and friends were all in the Tokyo area; he moved nearly three hours away from them all. It had been hard at first, but then he had Kise, Kasamatsu, and Seijuro. His lips pressed together firmly. He knew Seijuro loved him, but could he really just ignore his father’s wishes. Kouki wasn’t even sure if he would be able to.

“Do you want to move away from Kyoto?”

Kouki looked at Mibuchi and shrugged. “I don’t know. I’ve built a life there. My home. But I can’t pretend I don’t miss my friends and family.”

“Agreed,” Mibuchi replied with a relaxed sigh. “I think that you can have multiple homes, though. Figuratively, of course.”

Kouki considered his words. The adage was an old, but classic one—home is where the heart is. And Mibuchi was right, Kouki’s heart was in many different places. He stared down at his hands, clenched on his lap. It might have been a terrible idea to just run and say nothing to Seijuro, but he didn’t know what else to do. What he should have done was stayed, but it was too late for that.

The two sat quietly beside one another for another ten minutes. Kouki replayed the what ifs and should haves and would haves over and over in his mind, but none of that matter. He’d made a choice to run and he was going home and he was okay with that decision. Once he was home, he’d call Seijuro, who was probably worried sick about him.

Kouki licked his lips and glanced at Mibuchi. “Sei-kun’s father came to our apartment and said some pretty awful things to me.”

Mibuchi frowned. “I’m sorry to hear that.”

“He wanted me to break up with Sei-kun.”

“Sei-chan always said his father was an asshole.”

Kouki snickered at that. “Yeah, but all the things he said were things I always thought were true.”

“Furihata Kouki,” Mibuchi said with a heavy sigh and a shake of his head. “Do you love Sei-chan?”

“Of course, I do,” Kouki replied, staring into Mibuchi’s eyes. “I am stupidly in love with him and—”

“And he is too,” Mibuchi interjected, placing a finger on Kouki’s lips. He smiled at him and removed his finger a few seconds later. “I’ve known Sei-chan for a long time now and no one, and I mean no one, makes him light up the way you do.”

Kouki’s face flushed.

“Whatever his jerk of a father said to you has nothing to do with how Sei-chan feels about you.”

“But—”

Mibuchi clucked his tongue and shook his head. “No, stop worrying about the doubts in here,” he tapped Kouki’s forehead then poked his heart, “and only listen to this.”

Kouki didn’t say anything more, he just sank back into his seat and smiled. Maybe Mibuchi was right. Maybe he needed to just go with his heart. Seijuro had never once shown a shred of doubt that he was in love with him. He had always proudly showed him off to anyone. Kouki had to assume that Seijuro kept him away from his father, because his father would do exactly what he did.

“I bet Sei-chan is looking for you right now.”

“May I borrow your phone, Mibuchi-kun?”

“Oh? Did you forget yours?” Mibuchi asked as he pulled out his phone, unlocked it, and handed it to Kouki.

“I think lost would be a better description.” Kouki dialed Seijuro’s number and licked his lips as he hit the green phone icon. He took in a deep breath and put the phone to his ear, gazing out the window. All he wanted to do was apologize for running and ask Seijuro to meet him at his family home where they could talk in person. This wasn’t a conversation to be had over the phone.

On the third ring, Seijuro picked up. “I can’t talk right now, Reo.”

“It’s me, Sei-kun.”

“Kouki?”

“Yeah, I’m sorry—”

“Don’t apologize, please. I’m the one who should be apologizing to you.”

Kouki smiled weakly. That was just like Seijuro, always kind hearted and genuine even when it wasn’t his fault. It was one of the many things that made Kouki fall in love with him. “You have nothing to be sorry about.”

“Even so, my father is—”

“It doesn’t matter,” Kouki said, not wanting to get into it on the phone. He shifted in his seat. “Listen, I don’t want to talk about this on the phone.”

“I agree,” Seijuro replied.

Kouki smiled. “Good.”

“I’m already on my way.”

“What do you mean?”

“Kise and Kasamatsu saw you get on a train,” Seijuro explained. “You’re going to Shinagawa right?”

Kouki stifled a laugh. “Seems I couldn’t hide for long before you’d come for me.”

“I will always come for you, love,” Seijuro said. “Are you okay?”

“I don’t know,” Kouki replied honestly. His heart still hurt, but hearing Seijuro on the other end of the line made him feel just a little bit better. “I’ll be at my parents house, will you meet me there?”

“Of course, I’ll be there as soon as I can. I love you, Kouki.”

“I love you too, Sei-kun.”

Chapter Text

CHAPTER EIGHT

Seijuro walked down the quiet street of homes, following his phone directions toward Kouki’s childhood home. He had come alone, Kasamatsu had managed to convince Ryota they should go find something to do for a little while and let himself and Kouki talk. Oddly enough, Ryota conceded without much effort and told Seijuro to text them once everything was fine.

Honestly, Seijuro wanted to believe that everything was already fine, but he couldn’t say that with confidence until he saw Kouki. He came around a corner and paused, glancing up from his phone that showed him his destination was just ahead of him. At the corner just across the narrow street he spotted an off-white house with a green roof. Brick fencing went around the small front yard space that had a little maple tree in the center. His eyes drifted toward the windchimes on the second floor balcony that rang out in the winter chill. Seijuro let out a breath and approached the house, the covered driveway was empty, but the gate was open.

He walked toward the gate and stepped across the threshold, following the sidewalk toward the front door. On the porch was a wooden bench and a garden gnome statue. Seijuro licked his lips as he stared at the door. He hesitated for a moment, his hand hovering above the door to knock. His heart skipped a beat and his palms were sweaty despite the cool weather. Why was he nervous? He couldn’t say. Perhaps, it was because of that little velvet box in his pocket. He was going to propose to Kouki. It wasn’t the original plan, but he loved him so much and he couldn’t bear to lose him.

Seijuro told himself to breathe and take everything one step at a time. He straightened and knocked on the door then took a step back, glancing down at his shoes. A couple of seconds later, the door lock clicked and he held his breath as the door opened. Seijuro let out his breath and smiled as Kouki stood in the doorway, looking like his adorably nervous self. In a way, it was comforting to know that Kouki was feeling the same way.

Kouki ran his fingers through his brown hair. He still adorned the jeans and hoodie he’d been wearing, his feet covered in fuzzy socks. They both remained in front of each other, staring for what felt like hours. One of them would have to say something, but for once in his life, Seijuro didn’t know what to say. What he wanted to do was pull Kouki into his arms and never let him go, but he wasn’t sure if that was the right thing to do. Kouki appeared to be having his own conflicting feelings. Seijuro could see it in the slight crease that formed between his eyebrows, the little downward curve of his lip, the whiteness in his knuckles as he gripped the door, and the tremble in his knees.

“Sei-kun,” Kouki said in a soft voice, avoiding Seijuro’s eyes. “I’m sorry for running.”

Seijuro’s heart cracked. He didn’t have a damn thing to be sorry about. His father was the one in the wrong.

“The truth is…” Kouki bit his lower lip and shook his head.

“Kouki,” Seijuro said and took a step forward. “You have nothing to apologize for.”

“But I—”

“No, you did nothing wrong,” Seijuro took another step forward, and took hold of Kouki’s free hand, “I’m the one who should be apologizing to you. I knew my father would do this at some point, but a small part of me hoped that he wouldn’t.”

Kouki stared at Seijuro. “He’s not wrong—”

“Don’t,” Seijuro said, shaking his head and squeezing Kouki’s hand. “He is wrong. He’s wrong about it all.” Kouki’s eyes welled with tears and Seijuro closed the distance between them, cupping the love of his life’s face. He stroked his thumb across Kouki’s cheek and gave him a soft smile. “My father has a very different view on love than I do. The only thing I care about is how you make me feel.”

Kouki stared into Seijuro’s eyes, a single tear rolled down his cheek.

Seijuro brushed it away. “I love you, Kouki, and nothing is going to change that. You’re the only person I want to come home to. Do you understand me?”

Kouki took in a deep breath and threw his arms around Seijuro, sobbing softly. Seijuro hugged him back, gently stroking the ends of Kouki’s hair at the back of his neck. He hummed as he held Kouki close and relished in the feeling of his worry of losing him melt away. They stayed like that for about another two minutes before Kouki finally stopped crying and muttered an apology as he pulled away. Seijuro shook his head, affectionately wiping away the tears on Kouki’s face. He leaned forward, placing a kiss on Kouki’s forehead.

A sharp cool wind whipped against Seijuro’s back and blew Kouki’s hair from his face. “Should we go inside? It’s cold out here.”

Kouki nodded. “Yes, please, come in.”

They both entered the Furihata household. Seijuro removed his shoes and stepped into the foyer. Toward the opposite end of the hall was a sliding glass door allowing in the overcast gray light. Along the wall was a staircase, leading to the second floor. Then just before the staircase were two entrances to other rooms. 

Kouki walked down the hall to the entry on the left side. “Would you like some tea or coffee?”

“Coffee would be great, thank you,” Seijuro said, following after him.

Kouki’s house was truly a home. Something about it was warm and cozy, the type of place TV show sitcoms showcased with the perfect family vibe. The room they entered was a living room with two slate gray couches in an L-shaped fashion with a mahogany end table with a lamp and three pictures on it. Kouki wandered toward the other end of the room where the kitchen was. Seijuro remained in the living room, going to the three pictures. One was of Kouki graduating from high school, another was of him and his whole family, and the final was of Kouki and his older brother when they were young children.

He looked over to the window across from him. On one side was a bookshelf, overflowing with all sorts of things—craft books, D&D material, drawing books, novels, manga, and magazines. Seijuro smiled and plucked one of the D&D books, a monster guide, from the shelf. He flipped through the pages and looked over to Kouki, who’s back was to him as he prepared some coffee, his silhouette highlighted by the light from the window above the sink.

“Your family seems to have a lot of different hobbies,” Seijuro said with a small smile. He closed the book he’d been looking through and placed it back on the shelf then walked to the other side of the window. On the wall were several photographs of Kouki and his family. Seijuro sucked in a breath as one of the pictures caught his eye—a picture of the two of them.

“Oh,” Kouki laughed nervously as he joined Seijuro. “I sent that picture to my mom while we were in Australia, I didn’t think she’d print it and frame it.”

“It is a good picture of us,” Seijuro said with a smirk.

Kouki’s cheeks turned the slightest shade of pink before he chuckled and nodded in agreement. “Yeah, it’s my favorite.”

“Kouki,” Seijuro said, turning to face him entirely. “I am really sorry for what happened, I should have—”

“It’s okay, Sei-kun. Your father said things that were awful, but they were also things I had believed at one time. Doubts that I had.”

Seijuro frowned. “What do you mean?”

Kouki took Seijuro’s hand and pulled him over to the couch. When they were sitting, Kouki continued to hold his hand. He sighed softly, gazing right back into Seijuro’s eyes. “When you first asked me to go on a date with you, I only said yes because you were quite adamant about it. Deep down though, I really liked you, but I didn’t think we would ever work out.”

“Why?”

Kouki laughed lightly. “Sei-kun, seriously? You’re the rich, popular, attractive, super smart, talented, and kind Akashi Seijuro. You’re an elite figure all across Japan. You’re amazing.” Kouki licked his lips and sank back into the couch cushions, staring across the living room to the dining and kitchen space. “And then there’s me.”

Seijuro squeezed Kouki’s hand. “You’re amazing too, Kouki.”

“Am I?”

“Absoluetly.”

“This,” Kouki let go of Seijuro’s hand to gesture around the quaint and cozy living room. The one filled with family photos, hobbies they all partook in. It smelled of vanilla and cinnamon. The radiance of warmth, love, and charm permeated every inch of the space. The whole house felt lived in, alive, and a place where love blossomed. It may not have seemed like much to Kouki, but to Seijuro it was all he ever wanted and never got to have. “This is what I came from, just an everyday guy from humble beginnings.”

“There’s nothing wrong with that,” Seijuro said with a small smile. “If anything, I wish that I grew up in a home like this. Your family isn’t even here, but I can already tell how much of a home it is.”

“I don’t think there is anything wrong with it either, I just felt that maybe I wasn’t meant for you.”

“Why? Because I grew up in a big mansion with servants and maids?”

Kouki blinked and rubbed the back of his neck. “I mean, yeah, a little. It’s intimidating.”

“Kouki, I grew up rich and wealthy, sure, but I was always alone. Expectation and reputation followed me everywhere I went. Everything I did was watched and scrutinized. Family dinners? No, I never had that. Family pictures on the wall that were candid and honest reflections of my life? No, I didn’t have that either.” Seijuro rose from the couch and went over to another shelf by the hallway entry. Trophies, awards, more photographs, and little knick knacks covered the three floating shelves mounted to the wall. Seijuro envied it all. 

“My father’s love was conditional, and it got far worse when my mom died. It took me a long time to come to that realization, it wasn’t until my last year of high school that I understood what kind of man my father was.” He turned around to look back at Kouki. “My father believes that love and happiness have to be earned and worked for. He believes it should be a reward when you do the right thing. But I have found that love should never be conditional, because that isn’t real love.”

Kouki looked at the photographs on the wall, then to the ones on the shelves. He bit his lower lip, seemingly processing all the information he’d just heard.

Seijuro remained in the middle of the living room, doing his best to remain calm and stoic, but on the inside hurt and sadness raged like a violent storm. Even now, despite how happy he was with Kouki, his father still couldn’t just let him be happy.  He couldn’t just love him for who he was. He had to take his joy away, because Seijuro wasn’t doing what he expected him to do. The tears he so badly wanted to keep away pricked at his eyes, threatening to fall.

Seijuro closed his eyes, fist tightly balled at his side. “I am irrevocably in love with you, Kouki Furihata.” The tears slipped free and he stared down at the wooden floor, letting them fall.

Soft footsteps padded across the floor then Kouki’s warm hands gently cupped his face, wiping away Seijuro’s tears just as he had before. “I feel the same way, Sei-kun.”

Seijuro smiled, placing his hands over Kouki’s. “I’m sorry for not standing up for you and our relationship. I just hoped my father would accept what I wanted for once.”

“I understand and I’m not upset with you, so please don’t think that. Okay?”

Seijuro licked his lips, tasting the salt of his tears before nodding. “Okay.”

Kouki leaned forward, pulling Seijuro’s head down slightly to kiss his forehead. His lips were soft, warm, and a much needed comfort. Normally, Seijuro was the one comforting and doting on Kouki, but receiving the affectionate caresses soothed him. Kouki smiled at him when he pulled away, then gently stroked his cheeks before letting him go. “My parents should be home soon,” Kouki said, glancing at the clock on the wall. “I don’t…I mean, would you…it might not be the best time, but maybe you’d like to meet them?”

Seijuro smiled. “Of course, I’d love to meet them.”

Kouki smiled back and nodded. “Good, because I want you to meet them too.”

“Oh, but um,” Seijuro said with a small laugh. “Ryota and Kasamatsu are here too.”

Kouki’s eyes widened. “They came with you?”

“Yeah.”

Kouki chuckled. “Well, tell them to head over. My mom always cooks enough to feed a small army, anyway.”

“You sure? I can just tell them to go home.”

Kouki frowned. “They came all this way to support us, be nice.”

“I’ll say please.”

“Sei-kun,” Kouki sighed with a shake of his head.

—♡—

“We don’t want to impose, Furihata-san,” Kasamatsu said to Kouki’s mother, Furihata Megumi, who had suggested that all four of them stay the night as it was already late. Which, it wasn’t that late, nearly eight o’clock. They could catch the last train to Kyoto at nine and be home around midnight.

“Nonsense,” Megumi said with a wave of her hand. “You boys should stay, I’ll go prepare a room for you and Kise-kun,” she paused, then looked to Kouki and Seijuro, “Kouki, dear, you and Akashi-kun can share your room. I’m not foolish, I’m sure you are all having—”

“Mom!” Kouki held up his hands, face and ears turning red. “Please, don’t.”

“Oh, don’t be so shy, Kouki,” Megumi chided with a laugh. “He’s so handsome, I’m sure you two can’t keep your hands off of each other. I was young once.” She winked.

Kouki gasped and buried his face in his hand. If he turned any redder he would essentially be a chili pepper. He sank in his chair, just about falling out of it and sinking under the table. His mother seemed to have no shame and no filter, the polar opposite of Seijuro’s nervous and sweet Kouki.

Ryota cackled on the other side of the table. “Oh man,” he wheezed, wiping tears away from his eyes. “Furihata-san, you’re the best.”

“Oh, thank you,” Megumi said, flashing him a winning grin. “I’ll just get the table cleaned up and I’ll fix you boys a room. It’s no trouble, so you’re staying. Don’t argue with me, any of you.” She waggled her finger at each of them.

“I will happily oblige you,” Ryota said before taking a sip of his water.

She nodded then looked pointedly at Kasamatsu, who held up his hands and conceded. She then turned her attention to Seijuro, who smiled back at her with that practiced politeness and said, “I would love to stay, Furihata-san.”

“That’s what I like to hear,” she said gathering up some of the dishes.

“Let me help,” Seijuro offered, gathering up some dishes.

“ So you’re handsome, smart, and a true gentleman, you know how to pick them, Kouki,” Mom said as she shuffled off to the kitchen with Seijuro in tow. “A truly swoonworthy, young man.”

“You’re mom’s so fun,” Ryota chimed in.

“Kouki, go show Kise-kun and Kasamatsu-kun to the guest room. I’ll bring some clothes for you boys too.”

“Thank you for your hospitality,” Kasamatsu said with a bow of his head when he stood from the table.

“It’s my pleasure, now go on,” she said, waving them off.

Kouki stared at his mom for a moment then glanced at Seijuro, who was gathering the remaining dishes on the table. If Seijuro didn’t know any better he’d say Kouki was terrified of leaving him alone with his mom. He walked over to him and placed a hand on his shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze. “Go on, I’ll be fine.”

Kouki opened his mouth then closed it and nodded stiffly. He turned to Kasamatsu and Ryota. “Come on guys, it’s upstairs in the back.” Reluctantly, he walked out of the dining and living space to the main hall with Ryota and Kasamatsu following after him.

Their footsteps retreated up the stairs and Seijuro made his way back into the kitchen with the final stack of dishes and cups. He set them down on the counter and grabbed a dish rag hanging on the handle of the dishwasher. Behind him, cleaning up the stove and counter tops, Megumi tossed the scraps of food into the trash bin with a rag slung over her shoulder. Aside from having the same chocolate brown hair as Kouki, they were quite different from one another. She had big round doll-like eyes with a pixie shaped face, and she was petite, probably where Kouki got his own height from.

“Do you love my son, Akashi-kun?” Megumi asked. Her voice was firm, but not harsh.

He turned to her as he rolled up the sleeves of his sweater. “I do. Very much, Furihata-san.”

“Good, because he loves you so much,” Megumi said with a giggle. She turned to face him, leaning back against the counter and brushing her bangs from her face. “I can see it, the way he looks at you and the way he talks about you. I’ve never seen him like this before, it’s genuine and serious for him.”

“Furihata-san,” Seijuro said, his heart thumping just a little faster as he reached into the pocket of his pants. He pulled out the velvet box, unsure if this was honestly the best time, but he’d made up his mind—he was going to ask Furihata Kouki to marry him. “I’m going to spend forever with your son.”

Megumi’s eyes widened and she placed a hand over her mouth. She nodded a few beats later and clasped her hands together, the brightest smile etched across her face. No words were needed, he could see it on her face that she more than approved. Even though they'd only just met a few hours ago, the fact that she was so happy made Seijuro feel a bit better about his decision.

The truth was he’d felt it for a while and he meant what he said. He was irrevocably in love with Kouki and he was going to spend forever with him. “I promise to take good care of him.”

Megumi nodded. “I believe you.”