By all means, fall in love [oneshot]

[aibakawaii]

Title: By all means, fall in love
Author: aibakawaii
Pairing: Ohmiya, NinoxOC?
Rating: PG
Word Count: 9472
Summary: “I'm not going to give her up, just for some quiet guy who had some free time.”
A/N: Um......yeah. o.o


Nino propped his chin on his fist, his eyes on the man sitting outside on the curb. He had been sitting there for over an hour, not moving once.

“He’s hopeless,” Nino mumbled. If the man was waiting for his date, well, he should just give up.

“Who?” Aiba asked, following Nino’s eyes and spotting the man. “Why?”

Nino shrugged, taking his eyes off and they swept over the small game store. “No one comes during these hours,” Nino groaned, resting his head on the counter table.

“That’s why you should start organizing those new games we got,” Aiba muttered, poking Nino’s head. He grumbled and sat up again, sighing heavily.

“...Can’t we just play them instead?” Nino pouted while Aiba chuckled and smacked him lightly on the head. “Oi!”

After an hour passed, Nino already finished putting the games in their right spot. There were finally a couple of customers now, but Nino glanced back outside at the man’s back, still unmoving. His eyes widened when Aiba bounded out the store and went over to the lone man. Nino bit his lip, but he turned to the customer.

When the customers left and the store was empty except for Nino, Aiba came back inside with the stranger. Nino quickly looked over the man, who seemed not much older than the two and was Nino’s height. His brown hair was styled in spikes, and his face resembled a teddy bear’s. (Does that mean I’m thinking he’s cute? Nino wondered, a little troubled. He didn't really have a thing for teddy bears anyway.) The man’s dark brown eyes met Nino’s, seeming calm and gentle- quite the opposite of Nino’s lighter ones.

“Ohno-kun, sit wherever you want,” Aiba told him, then walking to Nino’s side. The man- Ohno, Nino supposed- looked away from Nino and smiled at Aiba. He sat down on a stool in the corner, looking around interestingly at the games.

Nino raised his eyebrows at Aiba, wanting an explanation.

“Well, you kept staring at him,” Aiba said, shrugging. “His name is Ohno Satoshi. Didn’t say what he was doing outside.”

Nino frowned, although he couldn’t help feeling a little thankful for Aiba’s way of ‘making friends.’ “Well, what’s he supposed to do now?”

“He could play some games!” Aiba grinned. “I mean, it must get boring just being outside for hours like that. There isn’t much to see around here.”

Nino rolled his eyes and looked at Ohno, who seemed lost in thought. “I don’t think he’s much of a gamer..”

Another hour later, and Nino had to say, but Ohno seemed a bit boring. He did nothing but sit there, after all. Whenever a customer came in, the man’s head would snap to them as if they were a reminder that he was still on Earth. After a minute or two, he’d sink back into his own thoughts (although Nino wondered if he was even thinking anything; the man’s eyes seemed so blank).

But even so, Nino was interested. He was interested in the man’s lack of liveliness, and curious as to why Ohno just sat there doing nothing for hours.

When it neared night, it was time to close the store down. Nino swallowed and quietly walked over to Ohno, but he looked up immediately at him.

“We have to close the store now,” Nino said quietly. Ohno jumped up and nodded quickly.

“Thanks for letting me stay here,” Ohno spoke, smiling. Nino smiled back, and glanced at Aiba who was beginning to lock things up.

“May I ask why..?” Nino looked back at Ohno, still curious. “I mean, weren’t you bored?”

“No, I’m very thankful,” Ohno said quickly, “Because I didn’t have anything to do.”

Nino didn’t really get it, but he nodded. “It’s alright, nothing wrong with just hanging out in here, even if there’s not much to do,” Nino chuckled. He walked outside with Ohno, Aiba following after them.

“Goodnight, then,” Ohno said, walking the opposite way.

“Be careful!” Aiba shouted after him, waving even though Ohno wasn’t looking at him. Nino smiled and began walking.

“I like him,” Aiba said cheerfully by his side.

“He's quiet,” Nino stated simply. He wasn't about to like a stranger yet, even if Ohno's eyes had somewhat interested him.

“So how's Masami-chan? After that last fight..”

“Oh, everything's fine.” Nino smiled softly. “Although I guess I'll have to play Niji for her again- Girls are so troublesome,” he said with a slight bitter tone while Aiba laughed.

--

When Nino woke up the next day, it was raining. Groaning softly, Nino got out of bed. He really didn't like days when he had to open the store, especially on such gloomy days like this.

After a quick shower, Nino got ready for the rain and left the apartment. Aiba said he'd come later (probably working on another crazy experiment, Nino thought), so he left without his neighbor.

The rain only seemed to get heavier. Sighing, Nino wondered if they'd get much customers that day. Once he neared the game store, Nino almost dropped his umbrella when he saw Ohno sitting outside, soaking wet.

“Oi, are you stupid!?” Nino called out to the man, running up to Ohno and holding the umbrella over him.

“Ah- thank you,” Ohno murmured, shakily getting up. Nino rolled his eyes and quickly opened up the store, grabbing Ohno's arm and pulling him in with him.

“There are some spare work clothes in the back room, so go change there,” Nino said, watching Ohno go in there. He wasn't sure what to think- 'stupid' seemed appropriate, but as much as Nino was stingy, he wouldn't judge so easily.

Ohno came back out of the room, the clothes a little large for him. Ohno smiled a little shyly and thanked Nino again.

“You're still wet though,” Nino muttered. He looked around for something to dry the guy's hair.

“It's okay, I'll dry soon enough,” Ohno said quickly.

“What's this, what's this?” Aiba entered the store, looking at Ohno curiously. He shook off his raincoat, letting it fall to the floor (Nino muttered angrily and went to pick it up). “Ohno's working with us!?” Aiba beamed. “The clothes are a bit big, but you look so cute!”

“No, he's just borrowing the clothes since the idiot let himself get soaked to the bone.” Nino sighed softly; no matter how quiet Ohno was compared to Aiba, his limit was working with only one idiot.

“Hm... Oh! Sho-chan is visiting today,” Aiba told Nino. “He said he wants to practice getting a report on this place; you know his dream.”

“Who would want to report on a dump like this?” Nino laughed. “I mean, sure I guess he has the ability to become a newscaster, but sometimes his topics are just so boring.”

“I'd say he just wants to see us,” Aiba said happily. He looked back at Ohno, who was just standing there. “Hey, you sure you don't want to work with us? We could do with one more worker anyway.”

“He's obviously not interested in games,” Nino hissed.

“Ah, I've already got a job, so it's alright,” Ohno said softly. Nino raised an eyebrow.

“Really? What do you do, and why aren't you working now then?” Nino was just plain curious, uncaring if he sounded nosy.

“I'm a manga artist...And, well, I'm on break now.” Ohno shrugged. Nino kept himself from snarking back at the simple reply, but instead he nodded in acceptance.

Sho arrived when the rain settled down into a light drizzle. “Hey, it's been a while hasn't it?” Sho chuckled fondly when Aiba ran up to him and hugged him, despite having been dealing with customers. Nino shook his head exasperatedly and took care of the customers himself, though he couldn't help smiling as well.

“Oh? A new face?” Sho then noticed Ohno, who was quietly sitting behind the counter. Sho took out his pen and notepad, opening to a fresh page.

“You don't have to bother with him,” Nino muttered once Sho neared the two. “He's not even a worker.” Nino slightly regretted saying that, as Sho's eyes brightened with interest. He began pestering Ohno with questions, and Nino watched closely. He didn't want Ohno getting too uncomfortable (although he couldn't quite figure out why).

“Nino likes someone~” Aiba sang quietly, not facing them but grinning knowingly.

“Shut up, I do not,” Nino snapped, kicking Aiba's leg lightly.

“Hm, what's this?” Nino almost jumped when Sho appeared in his face all of a sudden. “Is it Masami? Oh, but you're already her boyfriend now, right? Or did you break up because of someone else?”

“Shut up,” Nino groaned loudly, “This isn't even related to a game store report.”

--

Nino smiled at Ohno and the two walked into the game store together. A month already passed, but it was like Ohno really was a fellow worker. Of course, the break he was first on had to end eventually, and there were days he wasn't there or wasn't for the whole time. But he was mostly, and Nino would immediately say he was a friend if asked. They never actually met outside work, though.

Aiba was certain Ohno liked them, because he only entered the store when Nino and Aiba were there. Actually, more so towards Nino since they didn't always work together, and Aiba noticed that Ohno didn't come when Nino wasn't with him. (Nino wasn't sure what to think about it, but he at least had another reason to say he was better than Aiba.)

Nino yawned widely, his eyes sweeping over the empty store, and he rested his head down and closed his eyes.

He felt Ohno's hand on his hair and felt the long fingers thread through them. “Trying to make me fall asleep?” Nino murmured; Ohno chuckled softly.

“Nino is cute,” he said softly as Nino entered sleep.

“Shit!” Nino exclaimed when he woke up with a start, remembering he was still at work. He looked to his side and found Ohno sleeping, his head resting on Nino's shoulder. He swore again, hoping no customers came in. Well, as long as his boss didn't find out.

Someone then came into the store, and Nino recognized with a start who it was. “Jun-kun?!” Nino stood up quickly, then worriedly looking back down at Ohno who woke up once his headrest was taken away.

“Sleeping on the job, eh?” Jun smiled and walked up to the two. “A friend?” He asked, his eyes on Ohno.

“Ah, yeah. Oh-chan- his name is Ohno Satoshi.”

“Nice to meet you..?” Ohno stood up as well, rubbing his eyes and yawning.

“This is Matsumoto Jun, a childhood friend,” Nino explained, “Except he's been studying overseas for a while now.”

“Photography,” Jun said, taking out his camera. “That's what I've been studying.”

“No need to look so smug about it,” Nino laughed. He grabbed at the folder in Jun's other hand. “These are the photos, right?” Nino opened it and began to look through the pictures.

“I see you haven't improved on your manners at all.” Jun shook his head and looked back at Ohno again, who was looking at the pictures over Nino's shoulder. Ohno glanced at the clock and yelped.

“I have to go now, bye Nino, Matsumoto-san!” Ohno quickly left while Nino waved lazily.

“Ohno Satoshi...” Jun muttered, “Sounds familiar.”

“Oh really? He's a mangaka,” Nino said, then wondering if the artist published any books yet. “Anyway, are you staying? Aiba's coming by soon.”

“Of course, Aiba will be mad if he learned I was here without seeing me,” Jun said, chuckling.

“Who'd want to see you anyway?” Nino joked. “You left us on such a short notice, Aiba's already mad at you for that.”

Indeed, when Aiba soon entered the store, he brightened up at Jun but then pretended to be mad, not even greeting their friend. Nino smiled when Aiba hugged Jun after only a couple of minutes, unable to hold it back. He found himself wondering whether Ohno could join their little group, with Sho. Ohno would fit in, he was sure.

The next day at work, Nino asked Ohno if he wanted to go over to Nino's place, and Ohno agreed happily. Nino didn't really feel like inviting the others, though.

“You don't have work today?” Nino asked, in front of his apartment building with Ohno.

“Well, I'm fine, but if you don't mind me drawing a bit in..”

“Oh, that's fine!” Nino actually did look forward to seeing Ohno's work finally. When they entered his room, he realized he had left out his music sheets and guitar in clear view, and he couldn't help but feel slightly embarrassed while Ohno marveled over them.

“I want to hear!” Ohno looked at Nino with pleading eyes; Nino laughed awkwardly. “I mean, you'll get to see my art, right?”

“Fine, later,” Nino mumbled timidly.

However, later they were both sitting on the same couch in silence, their skin barely touching. Nino didn't know why he was feeling so nervous, but when he noticed Ohno had his usual blank face on, he couldn't help but shy away a little.

Ohno then took out papers from his bag, setting them on the table in front of them. It took only one look for Nino to gasp loudly.

“You- I know you!” Nino's eyes flickered back from Ohno to the artwork, surprised. “Amano Makoto? That's your pen name, right?”

“Ah, that's right,” Ohno said simply, blinking. Nino grinned and got up, taking some manga from a shelf and showing the older man.

“These, I collect them you know! Your works, I really like them.”

“I-I'm really glad,” Ohno murmured modestly, smiling brightly to see his own published manga in front of him in Nino's hands.

“And this is going to be the next chapter?” Nino asked excitedly, looking back at the papers.

“Hey, I won't show you unless you promise to let me listen to some of your music later,” Ohno said, pouting and hiding his work.

“I will! I promise!” Nino laughed and tried grabbing the papers, then tickling Ohno's side to distract him. Squealing, Ohno tried pushing Nino away with his feet, but Nino continued advancing until he was practically on top of the guy. Panting, Ohno let the papers fall from his hand, and they scattered themselves across the floor. Neither of them cared.

Nino smiled and kissed the tip of Ohno's nose softly, then rolled off onto the floor, gathering the papers. Ohno blushed and sat up, watching Nino. He then noticed make up across the room.

“You have a sister?” He asked curiously.

“Oh, yeah,” Nino replied truthfully, also looking at the make up. He didn't mention that it actually belonged to his girlfriend. Nino quickly took his guitar, and Ohno smiled excitedly. He crawled over to Nino expectantly.

Taking a deep breath, Nino looked down and started to play his song, Rakuen. Ohno was his first audience for that song, and he felt slightly nervous playing it for someone. When finished, Nino looked back at Ohno, a small blush rising into his face. It deepened when he found Ohno staring at him with glistened eyes.

“What is that?” Ohno laughed softly. “Did you really write that?”

“Of course! What would make you think I didn't? Was it too good?” Nino smirked.

“Well, it was just too cute and innocent, I didn't think someone like you would be able to write lyrics like that,” Ohno said jokingly.

“Whaaat?” Nino pouted and pushed Ohno lightly; he hadn't expected Ohno to jump himself fully onto the musician. The two wrestled a bit, rolling across the floor in a tangled mess. The front door suddenly opened, but Nino was stuck between Ohno and the couch.

“Aiba-kun?” Ohno asked surprised, and Nino sighed with relief- he had hoped it was anyone but Masami.

“EHH?” Aiba yelled loudly, hurrying over to the two. “What what what, why is Oh-chan here making love to Nino without me knowing?!”

“Why the hell would you want to know that, idiot!” Nino shouted, flushing. “And of course he's not making love to me.” Ohno laughed and got off, letting Nino clearly see Aiba's awestruck face.

“Well, you still should have told me he was coming,” Aiba said. “Or did you want him all to yourself?”

“Oh, was that so?” Ohno looked at Nino and grinned. Nino groaned and covered his face with his hand exasperatedly.

Honestly though, that might have been the case.

--

Soon enough, with the day officially being Sho's birthday when they all went out drinking, Ohno had become 'one of them.' The five being Sho, Jun, Aiba, Nino, and Ohno, they all got along well according to Nino's predictions, and within another month Ohno was welcome to visit any of their houses regularly.

Doubtlessly, Ohno and Nino were closest, they even didn't mind showing off their 'relationship' at work (though it did get a few scoldings from Nino's boss as it made some customers feel uncomfortable). But still, Nino didn't tell Ohno about his girlfriend.

“He still doesn't know?” Aiba asked incredulously one day at work. “About Masami-chan.”

“There isn't really any need to know,” Nino replied airily, busying himself with cleaning a case though it was already clean.

“But you know,” Aiba said softly, “Oh-chan might have a crush on you.”

“What?” Nino laughed, patting Aiba's back. “You okay? Don't be absurd like that, of course Ohno doesn't have a crush on me. We're both definitely straight.”

“How do you know?” Aiba frowned, looking uncomfortable.

“Well, we've watched porn together you know,” Nino said uncertainly, knowing that didn't really prove much.

“That was part of a dare,” Aiba said, sighing. “Even if Ohno gets turned on by girls, he could still always get a crush on you. Why don't you think about your feelings for him, then?”

Nino stared at his friend, unable to understand. Ohno having a crush on him? It just didn't make sense. They were best friends who liked to touch, that was all. Even if Ohno might have liked him, he definitely didn't have the same feelings for Ohno. Nino had Masami, after all.

Even if he was seeing Ohno an awful lot more than Masami lately.

Nino remembered the day Ohno first visited Nino's place. He frowned at the memory of him kissing Ohno's nose. Why did he do that? Why hadn't he invited the others to come?

“Nino?” Aiba asked quietly. He smiled sadly when Nino turned his confused and troubled eyes to him. “It's okay, never mind what I said. You don't have to think about it all right now.” Nino nodded slowly, looking outside. He tensed when Ohno appeared and entered, smiling at the two.

“Oh-chan, welcome!” Aiba said cheerfully. “Hey, a new game came out that I think your mom might enjoy.”

“Oh, really? Which game is that?” Ohno asked. He then looked at Nino when Aiba went to find the game, and Nino smiled at him. Ohno smiled back. “Hey Nino, how are you?”

“Same as always,” Nino said in a bored tone. “Wanna grab some lunch when my break comes?”

“Sure,” Ohno nodded. He was pulled back by Aiba, Nino watching him closely. Did Ohno really have a crush on him? Nino wouldn't know what to think about that, if it was even true. Aiba was never really a good source, and so later Nino consulted Sho about it.

“Well, I wouldn't be surprised,” Sho said, “Actually I wouldn't be surprised if you like Ohno-kun too.”

“Oh god, we're just good friends, we're not gay!” Nino said stubbornly. Sho merely shrugged.

“Yeah well, it's the way you guys look at each other- you can tell by that.”

“The hell is that supposed to mean?” Nino sighed heavily, his spirits sinking. He already had a girlfriend that he was actually serious about, and Nino didn't want to be told that he had feelings for his best friend, and a male no less.

--

“Oh-chan?” Nino raised his eyebrows at the man standing in front of his apartment. He looked outside at the starry, dark sky, wondering what Ohno would want at this hour.

“Nino-chan, I..” Ohno started. He was fidgeting with his feet, Nino noticed. Ohno then took Nino's hand in his, and Nino squeezed it gently.

“What is it, Oh-chan?” He urged, trying to get eye contact. When he finally did, Ohno's eyes were no longer calm like they usually were- they were anything but that. And that was what confused Nino; what was that look Ohno held? He liked being able to read Ohno, but this way made him uncomfortable.

“Would you..” Ohno started so quietly, Nino had to strain his ears.

“Nino, who is it?” A female voice came from behind them. Nino tensed, forgetting Masami was there. He squeezed Ohno's hand tightly that it probably hurt, then let go and turned away from Ohno's troubled face.

“It's just a friend,” Nino told his girlfriend. She peeked out from behind Nino, and found Ohno's surprised face. “This is..my girlfriend,” Nino told Ohno.

“Ah, right.” Ohno took a step back. “I'll go now then, sorry for the sudden visit.”

“Wai-”

“Goodnight,” Ohno said, quickly leaving. Nino frowned and watched him walk away, feeling guilty though he didn't know why.

“He's weird,” Masami said, pulling Nino back in. Nino smiled, but his heart wasn't in it.

Ohno hadn't visited the game store, or seen anyone, for more than a week.

“Something happen?” Aiba asked Nino, who was taking a smoke at the back of the store.

“Lots of things happen each day, Aiba-chan,” Nino replied tonelessly. Aiba rolled his eyes and clasped Nino's shoulder.

“It's about Oh-chan, right? He hasn't visited in a while.”

“I don't know what happened,” Nino said quietly. “I don't know what Ohno's thinking. He is weird, like Masami said.”

Aiba chuckled softly and shrugged.

“Wouldn't it be funny?” Nino continued, “If I actually had feelings for him.”

“Nothing's wrong with that, Nino,” Aiba said softly. Nino just laughed and shook his head, a bitter smile on his face. “You could always...with Masami..”

“I'm not going to just break up with her,” Nino snapped, shaking Aiba's hand off. “I'm not going to give her up, just for some quiet guy who had some free time.”

“So..would you give Ohno up?”

Nino looked at Aiba with wide eyes, but Aiba wasn't looking at him. He smiled brightly at someone who just walked around the building- Ohno.

“Oh-chan, you've worried us!”

“I'm sorry, it's been really busy at work,” Ohno said, smiling back at Aiba. He hadn't looked at Nino.

“You...” Nino started, unable to finish. Aiba pulled them both in, throwing away Nino's cigarette for him. He then went to the bathroom, leaving the two alone. Nino glanced at Ohno, who looked tired, but happy to be there.

Nino didn't feel happy, though. He had missed Ohno, he did worry, and yet Nino somehow felt anything but happy.

“Oh-chan,” Nino said, “what were you saying last time?”

“A-ah, I don't really remember,” Ohno said hesitantly.

“Oh-chan,” Nino said firmly. Ohno winced and turned away, making something clench in Nino's chest. “I'm sorry,” Nino said quietly.

“Eh?!” Ohno quickly turned back to Nino. “No no, it's nothing, Nino! Don't worry about it, I'm just being..” Ohno trailed off, looking sheepish. Nino smiled softly and shrugged.

“Can't be helped if you don't remember. It was a long time ago anyway.”

Ohno nodded, but he didn't look satisfied. Aiba bounded over to them, grinning widely.

“Let's go fishing! Sho-chan said he wanted to try it the other day, and Oh-chan likes to, right?”

“Wait, what?” Nino frowned. He knew Ohno liked to fish, sometimes the guy would show up with a deep tan even. He looked over to Ohno, who's face lit up.

“We could bring Jun, too,” Aiba said cheerfully after Ohno nodded his approval. “What's wrong, Nino?”

Nino's eyes went from Aiba's to Ohno's, then his feet. “I get seasick,” he murmured, embarrassed. Aiba laughed, but Nino glanced at Ohno, who had somewhat of a fond smile, if he could think of it like that. Nino blushed.

“You guys could go on without me..” Nino said, moving his eyes away and scowling at Aiba.

“Now that I think about it,” Aiba giggled, “you always skipped out on cruise trips back in school. I always assumed it was just the money problem, though.”

“Well, it was, partly! Those trips were expensive,” Nino retorted.

“It's okay, anyway,” Ohno said quietly. “We don't have to go together.”

“Like I said, just go on without me!” Nino sighed.

--

Feeling slightly disappointed with himself for getting seasick, Nino went home while the others went fishing. He didn't mind being left out, but Nino wanted to see a new part of Ohno. Well, he'd count on Jun to take pictures then.

Nino noticed his girlfriend's car parked outside the apartment building, and Nino frowned. She didn't usually come over without telling him.

“Masami?” Nino called, entering the apartment.

“Over here,” her voice replied from the bedroom. Nino found her looking through his music sheets. “Nino, there are so many songs you haven't sung to me yet!”

“Eh?” Nino crouched down beside her.

“These are all new, right? What's with the sudden motivation?”

“There isn't really any motivation, they just come to me. You know that.” Nino didn't mention that he started to write a lot more after meeting Ohno.

“Won't you play for me?” Masami pouted. Nino smiled thinly.

“They're not right yet.” He ignored Masami's whining, but he couldn't ignore the slight thumping in his chest. Ohno was always the one to hear his songs first, ever since he sang Rakuen.

Nino was one to put his friends before girlfriends, but he just couldn't help being troubled over whether Ohno really was just a friend.

--

“I'm pretty popular with the girls,” Nino said. Ohno spluttered in his drink.

“Stuck-up,” Jun muttered.

“It's true!” Nino frowned, watching Jun take pictures of the store for Sho's 'report.' “Some girls were giggling and looking in my direction the other day.”

“Wasn't that because you were holding hands with Ohno?”

“Eh, really? Girls like gay pairings nowadays?” Nino looked at Ohno and grinned, who smiled back.

“Are you admitting you're gay?” Jun put his camera down and looked at Nino with something in his eye Nino couldn't figure out.

“What I said didn't mean that.” Nino rolled his eyes. Ohno looked away, as if disappointed (or Nino was just making things up). “Maybe I'm popular with the guys too, though.”

Nino looked at Ohno and smirked. “Right? Oh-chan was going to confess to me, before he saw Masami.”

“Eh..?” Ohno whispered, looking back at Nino with a certain sadness in his eyes. Nino's eyes widened slightly; he laughed it off, shaking his head.

“I'm joking, I'm joking! You're probably popular with the ladies too, since you say the type of stupid things that will lure in girls. They like that, you know.”

“Remember,” Jun interrupted, “Wasn't I the most popular back in high school? Aiba was pretty popular too. You were the least; people were just interested in you since you hung out with us.”

“Shut up, they were interested in me because I was great at music and because of my good looks.” Nino smiled smugly.

Jun sighed and pat Ohno's shoulder. “Don't listen to him, he's only an otaku obsessed with games and magic tricks.”

Nino frowned when Ohno laughed. “I thought you were my best friend,” he said, feigning hurt. He raised his eyebrows when Ohno blushed softly, but Nino smiled. “What did you think we were?”

“Lovers, probably,” Jun smiled.

“Yeah, I thought you told me you loved me yesterday!” Ohno pouted. Nino laughed, but more so because he was glad that Ohno was going back to normal. He couldn't stand any of the 'serious feelings' talk Aiba was giving him.

--

The word 'lovers' was going through Nino's mind the whole week. It was driving him insane; he even stopped groping Ohno whenever he could help it.

“Did we really touch that much?” Nino wondered out loud to himself.

“You and Ohno?” Sho looked up to him from his papers. “Yeah, I wouldn't be surprised if you two touched more than you did with Masami even. And why are you at my house anyway?”

“We do not,” Nino snapped back. “I'm bored.”

“I thought you called me boring, though?” Sho raised his eyebrows. “So if you find me boring, why would you come here when you're bored?”

“Because you can give me advice on life.” Nino smiled and prodded Sho. “Well?”

Sho frowned, thinking. (Nino didn't think he'd actually take him seriously, but it would entertain him at least.)

Nino felt his phone vibrate and took it out, reading the text message. “Gotta go, Oh-chan wants to have lunch. See you later!”

“Ah, wait, I have something-” Sho sighed, hearing the door slam as Nino left.

“Kazu!” Ohno tapped Nino's shoulder from behind.

“Oh-chan?” Nino smiled, ducking his head shyly. “New nickname, eh?”

Ohno chuckled softly and took Nino's hand, entwining their fingers together. As the two walked to the ramen store, Sho's words echoed through Nino's mind: 'I wouldn't be surprised if you two touched more than you did with Masami even.'

It was true that he didn't hold hands with Masami the way he did with Ohno, but that was because Masami liked her freedom. It just felt natural for Ohno and Nino to be linked together whenever possible, like a bond that was meant to be.

Nino didn't see what that had to do with romantic feelings at all.

After they finished eating, Ohno said he wanted to go over to Nino's place. Nino agreed (hoping Masami wasn't going to go over unannounced again).

Of course, in a matter of minutes after entering the apartment, Nino had his head resting in Ohno's lap while the two were watching a movie.

“You say you don't like her? But you're touching her all the time!”

Nino quickly lifted his head up. “This movie is too obvious,” Nino whined. “They're definitely gonna get together in the end once they 'overcome the hardships' and it'll be all sappy. Why are we watching a romance movie anyway?”

Ohno smiled lightly at Nino's complaining. “Jun recommended it.”

“Yeah well, he's a girl. But we're not.”

“So what do guys do to pass time?” Ohno asked.

“Play games.” Nino smiled eagerly.

“Yeah? I think sleeping works well, too.”

Nino laughed and pushed Ohno down. “Go to sleep then, I'll watch over you like a caring boyfriend.” The words slipped out before he knew it, and Nino blushed only because Ohno blushed first. “Or a mother,” he said quickly, “Since you're such a mama's boy.”

“Sho-kun's the mom,” Ohno murmured, looking away. He then closed his eyes, kicking Nino away from him gently. Nino pouted and got off the couch, fetching a blanket and draping it over Ohno.

“Thanks,” Ohno said softly.

“Goodnight,” Nino replied, unable to stop the fond smile that stole over his lips. Nino went over to the other side of the couch and sat down, leaning against its back. He took out his DS and plugged his headphones in, starting the game.

Nino liked being a boy. He just wondered if his feelings towards Ohno wouldn't be so confusing if he were a girl.

Nino swore softly when he read the text message Masami sent him. Why did she have to come over now of all times? Nino peeked over the couch, smiling again at Ohno's peaceful, sleeping face. Then he frowned; Nino didn't want to wake him up.

He wondered what the worst option was; wake Ohno up and tell him his girlfriend was coming over so that he would most likely leave, or let Ohno be woken up by the arrival of Masami so they would have to meet.

Although it was probably best to have Ohno and Masami meet properly, Nino didn't think Ohno would want to be woken up with that kind of surprise waiting for him, if Aiba's suspicions were anything to go by. He didn't want Ohno to leave either, though.

“I wonder if he can sleep through it all..” Nino murmured to himself. He flinched when the doorbell rang, but was glad to see that Ohno didn't react at all. Nino went to meet Masami at the door, and when she hugged him Nino didn't hug her back. If she noticed, she didn't say anything.

“Ah, wait,” Nino spoke softly when Masami tried to go in. “I mean, my friend's over right now and he's sleeping.”

“Wake him up then!” Masami frowned. She pushed her way past and went over to the living room. When she saw Ohno sleeping, her eyes lit up. “Ahh, I see. He looks so cute like that, so you don't want to wake him up?” Masami grinned at Nino.

“You think I care about his cuteness?” Nino rolled his eyes, but he didn't deny it. He was just glad Ohno hadn't woken up yet.

“What's this?” Masami picked up the music sheet on the floor that Nino had been working on. She read the lyrics and raised her eyebrows. “Gimmick Game? This is different.”

“I guess.” Nino shrugged.

“Oh come on, you've had to have some sort of inspiration for this. My fingers aren't dirty, right? So it can't be me.”

Nino looked off to the side and chewed his bottom lip. His inspiration for that one had to be Ohno; he couldn't deny that. Ohno would sometimes work on his clay figures around Nino, making his fingers noticeably dirty. And not to mention that the older one liked touching Nino in 'inappropriate' ways as well.

“Have you been meeting another girl?” Masami asked in an accusing, loud tone.

“Of course not, and keep it down,” Nino hissed, pulling Masami into the bedroom and closing the door behind him. “I was just watching someone doing art, and their fingers were dirty, so what?”

Masami sighed and sat down on the bed. Masami was the kind of girl to trust Nino on these matters, so he didn't understand why she was getting suspicious now.

Except for the fact that he turned down most of her invitations to go out, nor did he play any of his music for her when she was usually the first to hear. Okay, so maybe she did have a reason, but Nino really wasn't meeting any other girl.

“That guy..” Masami murmured, “The one sleeping out there. Didn't he come over before? And you were acting strange after he left.”

“What?” Nino laughed, but he turned away. “Why are you bringing him up?”

“You're not the kind to worry about waking someone up,” Masami muttered.

“And you're not making any sense,” Nino snapped back.

“How am I not? You're the one being suspicious, caring about me bringing him up when you should normally say 'he's just a good friend who needs sleep' or something. I know you just like people in general, regardless of gender.”

“Are you saying I like him?” Nino wasn't bothering about keeping his voice down anymore. He could stand it if Aiba or the others would think he liked Ohno, but his girlfriend accusing him just wasn't right. It was proof she was being too jealous for Nino's liking.

“Hey, Kazu?” Ohno came into the room, rubbing his eyes. He blinked a few times and stared at Masami, and then Nino.

“Oh-chan,” Nino breathed. He took a step forward, but felt a tug at his arm. Nino glared at Masami's hand grabbing him.

“Oh, so it's Kazu?” She scowled and got up.

“Ah..I'm sorry for interrupting,” Ohno said quietly. He made to leave.

“No, you don't have to leave on my account,” Masami growled, letting go of Nino and leaving the apartment.

It was a while after the door closed that Nino moved again. He glanced up at Ohno and was shocked to see tears.

“Eh!? Wha-”

“I'm sorry!” Ohno wiped his tears off, but he continued sniffling. “I'm not being very manly,” he laughed shakily.

“Stupid, cry if you must, but why?” Nino led Ohno to the bed, sitting them both.

“I'm too ahead of myself..” Ohno smiled sadly. “If- if it's okay for me to say this, but...I kept thinking, that maybe Nino sees me at the top. Maybe he really does have that outside affection for me inside.” Ohno's hands were shaking, Nino noticed. He didn't know what to do. “I'm so stupid.”

“Oh-chan,” Nino called out almost desperately. “Oh-chan.” Nino swallowed, making a mental note to punch himself later. He didn't know how he was supposed to react; was this a confession? But Ohno didn't say anything about romantic feelings.

“Never mind, I know I don't make any sense,” Ohno said apologetically. Nino was quick to take note of the hurt in his tone. Nino slid his hand behind Ohno's neck and pulled the man's head toward his so they were facing each other.

“Ohno Satoshi, what are your feelings for me? Describe in one phrase, please,” Nino said firmly. Ohno blinked, surprised.

“... In love,” he said softly. Ohno leaned in and placed a chaste, soft kiss against Nino's lips. When he pulled back, Ohno smiled at Nino's blush.

“I..” Nino swallowed and looked down. His heart was beating too fast, he felt like he couldn't keep up with it.

“It's okay, you don't have to answer back. I won't...I want to still be best friends.” Ohno gently lifted Nino's hand from his neck, and he got up. Nino wanted to stop him, to have him continue on from the kiss. But Nino couldn't, and he just watched Ohno leave.

--

“I'm the stupid one,” Nino sighed,watching Aiba clean the shelves. Aiba paused and smiled at Nino. “Don't give me that look. I can't be that pitiful.”

“Well, I'm just glad he confessed,” Aiba said, sitting down next to Nino. “He seems to be quicker than you, huh?”

“Quicker? It's not like I actually have feelings for him, too. I mean, I don't know if I do, not yet.” Nino took over Aiba's job of cleaning the shelves. “I couldn't answer to him, you know.”

“Oh come on, Nino,” Jun's voice came exasperatedly from the entrance of the game store as he entered. “It's been this far into the relationship and you're still unsure about your feelings?”

“How would you feel if you were put into my shoes?!” Nino threw the rag at Jun. “It's not that simple. Have either of you fallen in love with your best male friend while having a girlfriend?”

“What?! You didn't break up with Masami yet?” Aiba asked, incredulous.

“I guess it'll come soon, though..” Nino sighed heavily. “She was a good one, really.”

“Ohno's better,” Jun said easily. “I mean, Masami really was a good girl, but if she's getting jealous over you and your best friend..”

Nino's eyes flickered back to the front door, where Sho was entering. “Why is everyone here?” Nino frowned and retrieved the rag from Jun, continuing the cleaning.

“Aiba said you and Ohno were together now, so I came to see how things were going with you,” Sho explained.

(“Likewise, but the idiot was apparently lying,” Jun said.)

“But Oh-chan confessing to me isn't the main case here,” Nino said, “It's what am I supposed to answer back?”

“'I love you too, so let's go out,' isn't it?” Aiba piped up; Nino ignored him.

“What did Ohno say after he confessed?” Jun asked.

“Well...He said I didn't have to answer, but I can't just leave it!” Nino put the rag down and started placing the games back into the clean shelf. “I want him to be happy, but..”

“So? Doesn't that mean you should tell him you love him back and both be happy together?” Sho smiled and pat Nino's shoulder encouragingly.

“You guys don't understand it!” Nino scowled. “I know I love Oh-chan, but I don't know whether it's more like a brotherly love or romantic love. Or just best friend love, you know?”

Aiba looked down, thinking. “Well, it's true I love all of you and I'd probably be troubled if one of you liked me.. But I still say you would make a great couple with Oh-chan!”

“What about me?” Ohno smiled from the front door. He raised his eyebrows at everyone's surprised face. “Ah, everyone's here. Something happen?”

“W-Well, nothing really,” Nino said quietly. As much as he wanted to look away, Nino couldn't help but stare as Ohno walked over to them with a pleasant smile on his face. It had been a while since he saw it; Nino wondered what caused it.

“Hey guys, I caught my goal fish today!” Ohno beamed. Oh, well if he was happy about that, then.

“Ehh, seriously!?” Sho marveled. “We spent so long waiting for it last time, I would've liked to see it...”

Nino sat down and watched the others talk. The corner of his lips curved upward; Nino really did like peaceful times like this. He wondered if they would all be happier if Nino answered Ohno's feelings as his own, but Nino couldn't do that. He couldn't lead Ohno with false hopes.

“Nino?” Ohno waved his hand in front of Nino's face. “You listening?”

“Ah! Sorry, what was it?” Nino smiled sheepishly.

“Since you can't go fishing with us, we can always go to a fishing hole. You know, they have one for beginners and stuff.”

“Eh? Really, it's okay? You won't mind?” Nino knew Ohno liked the ocean; going to a simple fishing hole would probably bore him.

“Silly, it's still fishing! And I want you to experience it with me.”

Of course Nino couldn't refuse.

“I think I got one!” Nino shouted out excitedly. Ohno immediately put down his pole and put his arms around Nino's, his hands resting on top of Nino's.

“Here, reel in like this,” Ohno instructed, controlling Nino's movement as his own. However, Nino couldn't concentrate on the fish. The only thing he saw was Ohno's hands; the only thing he felt was the warmth of Ohno's arms. He thought Ohno smelt a little like the ocean, despite them being at a river.

“Oh, it got away,” Ohno's disappointed voice cut through Nino's thoughts.

“...I'm not your girlfriend,” Nino said quietly.

“What? I know tha- oh!” Ohno quickly lifted his arms off from Nino. “I just thought- I mean-”

“I don't like the way you're acting.” Nino's voice was a little cold.

“I'm sorry,” Ohno apologized sincerely and quickly, “I dragged you out here even though it's my hobby, of course you're probably not enjoying yourself as much as me.”

Nino shook his head slowly. “It's not that, but you act so happy and normal. Don't you care about what I think? My feelings?”

Ohno was silent for a while, his eyes on Jun yelling at Aiba for scaring away the fish. There was something sad in his smile, and Nino wondered if he shouldn't have brought it up.

“You're missing the whole point of what I said, Nino,” Ohno said. Nino looked at him questioningly. “You don't have to answer back. You don't have to be troubled because of me.”

“But what kind of best friend is that?!” Nino frowned. “I can't just ignore such a matter.”

“Please, Nino,” Ohno begged. Nino wondered why he sounded worried.

“Don't you want me to answer back? Wouldn't someone normal prefer that?” Nino was a little mad, but at his inability to comprehend Ohno. He only felt more down when Ohno turned his attention to the fish, reeling in his line. Nino hadn't wanted the trip to turn out this way, and it was probably all his fault.

--

Nino heard the door of his apartment open and close. Probably Aiba, then. He groaned softly and pulled the blanket over his head. Soon enough though, they were pulled back; Aiba smiled cheerfully.

“Today I shall be your maid,” he announced loudly. Nino scowled and hid under the covers again.

“Come on, Nino!” Aiba whined, tugging at the blanket. “Knowing you, you'll laze around all day, so I'm here to help!”

“I'm not old, I can do things myself,” Nino grumbled, getting out of the bed and shuffling slowly to the kitchen. He started to make himself a cup of coffee when he realized Aiba was watching him carefully. “No, really Aiba, I'm not gonna fall over.”

Aiba smiled and sat down on a chair. “Get me some coffee too, 'kay?”

“What happened to being my maid?” Nino rolled his eyes, but he handed Aiba the coffee and got another cup for himself. Nino sat down across from Aiba. “So?”

Aiba shrugged and took a sip of his drink. “You know the deal; tell me your troubled love story and I give some advice.”

“You never say anything good,” Nino muttered. “But fine, whatever. Oh-chan insists that I forget about his confession like it never happened, but that doesn't make sense whatsoever.”

“Doesn't it?” Aiba tilted his head to the side. “I mean, what if you were in his situation? How would you feel waiting for an answer?”

Nino frowned and thought. “Well, I'd feel anxious..but I would just wanna get it over with and hear the answer!”

“Even if it would result in a rejection?”

“Oh.” Now Nino understood. “But I don't want to reject him,” he said hurriedly.

“And does Oh-chan know that?” Aiba sighed softly. For someone as quick as Nino, he was so slow sometimes. Nino rubbed his forehead tiredly, feeling like he was getting a headache from all of this. He just wanted things to go back to normal, but he couldn't play along when knowing Ohno's feelings for him. He just couldn't do it- couldn't bear wondering whether Ohno was actually hurting inside. Nino felt like he would, if he were Ohno.

Nino grabbed his cellphone, looking through his missed calls. “Huh, Masami called me three times.”

“You should break up with her soon,” Aiba said.

“You think? She probably wants to break up with me herself.”

--

Masami was dressed up when Nino went out to meet her. He raised his eyebrows; she only dressed up for important dates, and he wondered whether she thought she would make him feel sorry for breaking up with her. Well, Nino didn't really care anyway.

The girl bounded over to Nino cheerfully. “Nino, sorry for doubting you before. I just wanted to apologize.”

“What?” Nino's eyes widened as she hugged him.

“I don't want to leave you,” she said softly. “What's with your heart?” Masami giggled, pressing her ear to his chest. “So fast.”

“Don't do that,” Nino murmured. He pushed Masami off, but his arm somehow ended up around her waist and so she didn't say anything. Masami started walking, and Nino couldn't do anything but follow her lead. Although he felt relieved that she didn't want to break up with him, a bigger part of him was close to panicking. Nino had to admit that he cared more about Ohno than Masami right now, whether as a friend or something more. He would only feel guilty being with his girlfriend while Ohno was on his mind most of the time.

“Masami? I need to tell you something,” Nino said boldly, stopping shortly. She turned around, a look of anticipation on her face.

“Is it something bad?” She asked, a slight frown on her face.

“N-No, well,” Nino stuttered. It was usually only the girls who broke up with him first; he wasn't used to this. Nino lifted his arm from Masami's waist and took a deep breath.

“Maybe you were right,” Nino said, “I don't know if I'm gay or bi, but Ohno is an exception.”

“So it is him..” Masami sighed. “Well, alright. You want to break up, don't you?”

“Do you mind..?”

“Of course I do, it's like a lost to a newcomer,” Masami said bitterly. “But the way you look at him, it's different. It's a new expression. I don't think I'll have a chance if I even tried!” She looked away, her eyes sweeping over the crowd of people.

Nino sighed softly. He was glad Masami was quick, and never too difficult. He just wanted to get this over with.

“Good luck,” she said quietly, quickly turning away and leaving. Nino watched her leave, a surprised expression on his face. Although Masami was quick, was it alright to leave that quickly right after breaking up? Nino hadn't even said that he wanted to end it outright to her. What was the good luck for anyway?

Nino looked to the side, seeing Ohno amidst the crowd. It wasn't hard to notice him, as he was carrying large canvases. Nino couldn't help but smile and immediately went to the artist.

He hesitated before calling out, worried if it would be awkward what with their last conversation. However, Ohno noticed him before and smiled brightly.

“Is that for your work?” Nino pointed to the canvas in his hand.

“Nah, I just wanted to paint something. Fishing has really distracted me from my original hobby, you know!” Ohno pouted and Nino laughed.

“Show me when you're done, alright?”

“Only if I'll be the first to hear your latest release,” Ohno smiled. Nino chuckled and nodded his agreement. “Nino, why don't you get a profession in it? I mean, debuting publicly and all that. I'm sure you'll easily become a star.”

“I don't want,” Nino muttered. “I mean, it's troublesome. I'll get busy, too.” Nino feared being too busy to meet Ohno anymore like this, but he couldn't say that.

“You're just too shy, aren't you.” Ohno laughed and nudged Nino with his arm playfully. Nino stuck his tongue out back at him.

--

Nino spent the next two days doing nothing but think. He thought about Aiba's, Jun's, and Sho's 'advice,' and he thought about Ohno most of all. Nino picked up one of Ohno's sketchbooks he left, and went through the pages for the hundredth time lazily.

He was about to close it when he realized there was a sketch near the back that he had missed. Nino opened fully to the page and smiled immediately. There was a quick sketch- but pretty damn near perfect in Nino's eyes- of Nino and Ohno on a fishing boat, but Ohno was patting Nino's back, as he was obviously seasick.

Closing the book in satisfaction, Nino picked up his phone.

“Hey, Oh-chan. Can I bring you somewhere?” Nino asked the older once they met up in front of the train station.

“I agreed to meet up here, wouldn't that mean I already said yes?” Ohno replied playfully, but he nodded. Nino smiled and entered the train with Ohno.

“Wouldn't taking your car be easier, though?” Ohno asked, sitting down next to Nino.

“But then I'll have to drive,” Nino said. Ohno chuckled and shifted, but ended up further away. Nino thought maybe Ohno was about to move closer, but stopped himself.

“You know, I broke up with Masami.”

“Eh? Why?” Ohno looked at Nino with a surprised expression.

“Maybe you'll find out later,” Nino said, smirking a little. He sighed softly and rested his head on Ohno's shoulder, feeling Ohno tense under him but then relax. “It's funny, she was the best girl I've been with, but I don't feel bad at all.”

“That's cruel,” Ohno laughed softly. He looked down surprised at the cute hands grabbing onto his shirt. “Nino?” He looked at Nino's face, and smiled when realizing Nino was asleep. (He just hoped Nino woke up for whenever they came to their destination; Ohno still didn't know where they were going.)

After a couple of stops, it was getting dark and the train was slowly emptying. Worried, Ohno shook Nino lightly, glad that Nino quickly woke up.

“Nino, when should we get off?”

Nino yawned loudly and sat up, looking around. “The next stop is fine.”

“Heh? Do you even know where we're going?”

Nino shrugged. “Does it matter?” Ohno blinked, confused, but he went along with it.

Ohno was more troubled when they got off, finding them in an unfamiliar area. Nino smiled softly at Ohno's face and took his hand.

“Oh-chan,” Nino whispered, “Let's make it romantic.” He glanced at Ohno's confused eyes, smiling shyly.

“Nino, what are-”

Nino shook his head and pulled Ohno along with him. He looked up to the sky; it was almost dark enough, but the sky was still a pretty shade of purple. Nino looked around the quiet neighborhood, and found a trail. He followed it, going up a hill. (This was all following his instinct, but Nino liked to say he had very good instincts and so he wasn't worried.)

By the time they neared the top, it was well into the night. “Close your eyes,” Nino murmured. Ohno wanted to ask why, but he shut his eyes as instructed.

Nino carefully led him to the middle of the small field, and laid Ohno down, then laying down next to Ohno himself.

“You can open them now.” Nino watched Ohno's eyelids open, feeling slightly nervous.

Ohno immediately gasped softly at the billions of stars above them. He squeezed Nino's hand, and Nino blushed just from that.

“Nino,” Ohno breathed. “Kazu.”

Embarrassed, Nino looked back up at the stars. “That time when you kissed me, that wasn't fair.” Ohno turned his head to Nino. “You didn't give me enough time,” he muttered.

“Huh?” Ohno blinked as Nino leaned over Ohno and pressed their lips together softly. He lifted his head back, blushing furiously and glad it was too dark to be noticeable.

“I don't know if my feelings are exactly like yours,” Nino said, slightly nervous, “but I'll date you- I want to. I don't think either of us will be fully satisfied if I don't.”

Ohno was silent for a while, but then he smiled brightly, brighter than the stars, Nino thought. “I'll do my best to make you fall in love with me, then.”

Nino giggled softly and touched the tip of his nose to Ohno's. “I'm sure it won't be hard.”