Winter is the Warmest Season [Akame]
Title: Winter is the Warmest Season
Pairing(s): Akame, Pikame (Friendship)
Rating: PG
Genre: AU, where Jin and Pi are cousins; while Kame is the cute family's friend.
Warnings: Nothing much, except that there's Pi, making things a bit complicated.
Summary: It's a funny fact of life that things rarely go as planned.
A/N: (1) This was written for silent_melody90at the amigo_santasecond round exchange ( HERE). Below is the picture prompt, came along with the line 'First snow of the year'.
(2) I had a really tough time completing this fic as my Akame muse was trolling with me. But I had a wonderful beta, supporting me all the way. Thanks so much dear (*youwhoshallnotbenamed*)
"First snow of the year."
“Kamenashi-kun, you’re late." A pretty lady dressed in white and flimsy floral apron opened the door eagerly, stepping aside to invite her guest in. "Come in. Come in. It must be freezing out there. I thought Tomo was supposed to pick you up from the station?”
Clad in a dark blue sweater, hiding his favorite t-shirt paired with his vintage jeans, Kame nodded politely, handing his host a medium sized silver box, "Yeah, but then I could not pick this up for you if he did."
Her eyes brightened as she carefully lifted the box's lid “Ah my favorite cream puffs. You're so sweet.”
But before Kame could reply, loud footsteps were heard rushing down the staircase followed by Pi's squeaky voice "Are you seducing my mom with desserts again?"
"Well, at least he knows how to treat a lady" she smacked her son's head playfully before disappearing into the kitchen, singing softly to the tune of the TV commercials that came from the other room.
Pi pouted slightly, comfortably clinging around Kame’s shoulders. “Sometimes I feel she loves you more than me."
"I feel the same way too" Kame replied with a smug smile before breaking into a light laughter as Pi’s foot accidently banged into a side table when he tried to kick Kame.
The guy wailed painfully, hopping on his other foot trying to ease the throbbing. But then, Pi lost his balance, dragging Kame along as they crashed into the wall in a compromising position.
Kame’s giggles turned into moans. Both were still frowning in pain when a voice came out of nowhere “Ano, am I interrupting something?”
Kame looked up, blinking confusedly at the stranger who was standing at the top of the stairs staring amusedly at him. He looked familiar but Kame could not put a name to the handsome face. Feeling the warm sensation creeping on his cheeks as their eyes met, Kame quickly wiggled himself away from Pi.
“I fell onto him” Pi explained as he pulled himself up, extending his hands to Kame.
“How convenient” the guy replied with a knowing smile, retracing his footsteps.
Pi sighed deeply “You still remember my cousin don’t you?” he asked, leading Kame to his room.
“Cousin?” Kame bit his lips as he tried to recall the familiar face.
“Yup. We went to his brother’s wedding in Okinawa last year.” Pi answered as he pushed the door open. “The guy who insisted to give his best man’s speech in English even though no one can understand him” Pi added. “Well, he just returned from US, saying something about finding his true love. I bet he just run out of money.”
“How about this one?” the guy ignored Pi’s remark, holding a black and silver striped shirt out.
Kame quirked his brows, observing the fluffy honey brown locks softly covering the guy’s deep brown eyes, as he hesitantly answered “Akanishi-kun?”
“Glad you still remember me. You can call me Jin though” he continued ransacking the closet, pulling another flashy looking shirt “This one?”
“I’m not going clubbing, for god’s sake” Pi snapped, signaling Kame to sit on the floor since the bed was all covered with his clothes “Something simple will do.”
“You’re boring” the guy tossed the shirts onto the pile.
“And you’re not helping at all. Lucky Kame’s here now” Pi brushed his cousin aside.
“I’m glad he’s here too” Jin winked at Kame.
The younger guy frowned but turned his attention to Pi who held out a black t-shirt “How about this one?”
“Too predictable” Kame replied, walking towards the two, scanning over the messy closet “I’ll go with white shirt, if I’m you” he pulled a slightly crumpled off-white shirt with light floral print detail on the edges “But I think you should do some ironing first.”
Pi was about to reply when his phone rang. He quickly scanned the text message “I can’t. She’s here” He grabbed the white shirt and rushed out from the room leaving his two guests stunned.
“What’s so great about today?” Jin walked over and leaned on the wooden door frame, arms crossed, rolling his eyes as he listened to Pi’s excited voice echoed, greeting his new guest.
He didn’t know why, but Kame was getting a bit nervous being alone with the guy. The room somehow began to seem too small for them “Well, it’s the first time he’s going to introduce Maki to his parents. It is a big deal for him” Kame replied quietly trying to stay calm, folding the t-shirts neatly and arranging them in one corner.
“I still don’t get it. I brought girls to my place all the time. That doesn’t mean I should call for a family dinner for each one of them, right?” Jin turned his gaze to Kame, challenging him with his eyes.
“Well, I guess it’s different in the US” Kame replied, trying his best not to roll his eyes at the arrogant comment from the other. “Why don’t you go ahead? I’ll sort out the room a bit” Kame started to sort the pile, ignoring the intense stare the other guy was giving him.
“You hate me don’t you?” he said curtly.
Kame was startled but he simply pursed his lips, trying to find a suitable answer “I don’t even know you, to have such a strong feeling as hate.”
“Ouch” ignoring Kame’s politically correct answer, Jin asked another question “Why are you doing this?” he then walked towards Kame, deliberately sat on the bed, forcing the younger guy’s attention on him.
“Just in case Maki suddenly wanted to check Pi’s room later” Kame answered, amazed his voice was still calm despite the sudden throbbing.
“That’s not my question” he bounced off the bed and took the clothes Kame had diligently sorted, carrying it off and swiftly dumped the whole stack at the bottom of the closet, smirking devilishly at Kame flabbergasted state.
He was about to repeat the action when Kame stopped him immediately “Hey stop it. You’re making a mess. Let me do it instead.”
“You’re not his wife” Jin scoffed “What others think of his messy bedroom is none of your business.”
“What’s wrong with you?” Kame snapped, pushing Jin away from the neatly folded clothes. His voice quivered incredulously “Why are you purposely picking fight with me?”
“You love him don’t you” Jin said indifferently, brushing the startled Kame aside as he grabbed and tossed another batch of clothing in. He kicked the closet’s door close and locked it.
“I do not” Kame stammered, his face heated up, angry that Jin, someone he considered a stranger, was able to read his deepest thoughts.
“I saw the way you looked at him during the wedding” Jin replied quietly “You’ve always love him, don’t you? And that baka don’t even know about it”
****************
Dinner was excellent as Yamashita-san prepared all her best dishes, insisting that Kame and Maki try it all, but jokingly warned Pi and Jin that they should watched over their waistlines instead.
Pi’s dad was very endearing, sharing endless jokes with Maki who tried her best to laugh at all of them. Pi tried to stop him halfway through dinner, but failed miserably. But lucky for them, Rina came back late and earned a full blown lecture on time management from the devoted father.
Everything was great and everyone seemed so relaxed, except for the tense aura oozing between Kame and Jin who were seated next to each other. Lucky for them, everyone seemed too busy with their own conversations to notice it.
“Coffee, anyone?” Yamashita-san called out, putting the freshly-cut mix fruits on the coffee table as everyone settled in the living room.
“I’m good” Kame replied swiftly, taking his seat at one of the corners “I need to sleep early tonight.”
“I’ll have one” Jin answered as he settled next to Rina, but his eyes were fixed on the younger guy, knowing well the other was trying to avoid him.
“Can I help you out?” Maki offered but Yamashita-san quickly declined. She returned soon after, carrying colorful mugs of some fragrant beverage and a plate of the cream puffs.
“So, tell me, how did you guys met?” Rina asked Maki cheerfully.
“We went to the same French language class” Maki sheepishly replied, taking a sip of her coffee. “Tomo-kun was assigned as my class partner.”
“Then he wooed you with his French. Oh, that’s so romantic” Rina gushed.
“Why are you taking French class?” Jin asked Pi bluntly.
The other guy rolled his eyes “Why not?”
With a devilish smirk, Jin nodded approvingly. He took another sip of his coffee before directing his sparkling eyes to Kame again “I’m more interested to know how you met Kame-chan though.”
The younger guy bit his lips, annoyed that Jin called him by his pet name as if they’ve known each other well.
Pi sighed at his cousin’s antics, knowing Kame’s pet peeve well “We went to the same college. Hit it well from the start and become best friends. We even ended up in the same club.”
“You wouldn’t believe which club they were in” Rina exclaimed, laughter erupted as she gleefully announced.
“Rina…” Kame grumbled in protest, hating how Jin was mocking him with his haughty smile.
A soft chuckle escaped from Maki. Pi rewarded her with his famous pout, whining exaggeratedly.
As for Jin, he provoked Kame further “That sounds so gay.”
“Well, at least we have real activities” Pi snapped, throwing a limp cushion at Jin’s direction “Right, Kame?”
“I guess, we just have a different definition of what’s a club is compared to Akanishi-san’s” Kame added with a stubborn pout.
“Oh oh… One point for Kamenashi-kun” Rina clapped.
“I see” Jin replied apathetically, plopping the cushion on his lap “And you know what, I would love to show you my definition of clubs.”
“Eww! That sounds nasty” Rina exclaimed, throwing another cushion towards Jin’s direction.
“Stop it with the pillow fight” Yamashita-san quickly interrupted, worried over her vases.
Then her husband added “Tomo, you mentioned earlier about making an announcement right?”
“Is it a promotion?” Pi’s mother quickly interjected, beaming excitedly.
“A different type of promotion I guess” Pi replied, extended his hands to Maki. Kame noticed the adoring stare the two shared, feeling his stomach tying into a knot, sensing something bad will happen. Both Pi and Maki then stood up swiftly, smiling at the expectant crowd “We’re getting married.”
It was the unexpected news Kame had always dreaded, wishing he was not there to receive it. His mouth felt dry, eyes trained on his feet. Taking a deep breath.
Pi’s parents were so happy, they were clinging to their son and happily welcoming the soon to be daughter-in-law with the warmest hug. Rina grabbed her phone and started texting their other close relatives over the great news.
Kame was still quiet at his corner when he suddenly felt a light squeeze on his shoulder. He slowly lifted his head and saw Jin soft eyes, encouraging. Kame shut his eyes tight, wanting wake up from the nightmare. A moment later, he finally opened his eyes as he took a glimpsed at the happy couple, painfully accepting the bitter reality.
Pi’s smile was the brightest he had ever seen. And Kame told himself, that was enough for him. His legs were slightly shaky, but with the little strength Jin gave him, he carefully walked towards Pi, extending his hands out “Congratulations.”
His best friend’s smile grew wider, eyes sparkled brightly. Instead of taking the offered hand, Pi pulled Kame into his arms, hold him tight “Thanks, Kame. Thanks for always staying by my side. Will you be my best man?”
Kame wanted to say yes, knowing that’s the only answer for him. But he was afraid his voice will betray him, feeling the warm droplets he tried so hard to hold back finally grazed down his cheeks. He licked his lips, salty “I’m…”
Suddenly his body was jerked away, pulled by a sturdy force. He snapped his head in the direction, seeing Jin’s strong grip securing around his arms, yanking him away from Pi.
“This call for a celebration” Jin announced grimly, dragging Kame out from the living room, ignoring the curious stares the others were giving them.
“Where are you guys going?” Pi asked urgently, staring at Kame’s red eyes worriedly.
Jin pushed Kame out of the house indignantly “Kame and I going out to get some wine.”
************
They rode in total silence for a minute or two, just focused on the road. Both lost in their own thoughts, welcoming the quietness. Jin was driving in circles, leisurely cruising on the empty street, neither know where to go, nor care where they’ll end up.
Kame was the first who broke the silence, clearing his voice with a fake cough, voice laced with raw emotion “It was my first year in college when I met him. Though we had almost all the same classes, we never talked to each other until that one fateful day when he ended up sitting next to me in our History of Philosophy class. Well, actually, he was snoring shamelessly” Kame chuckled softly at the piece of memory. “Unexpectedly, he was called to answer a question by our sadistic lecturer. Lucky for Pi, I was pretty much awake with a set of answers. The rest is history”
Jin listened in silence, nodding quietly as Kame continued, walking through the memory lane.
“Pi gets into trouble all the time. He’s like a walking disaster magnet” Kame added with a chuckle. “During our second year; he got into this silly bet, I’m not even going to tell you what it was about, and he lost miserably. As punishment, he ended up as the UFO club’s president. But of course, anything he’s in, he’ll dragged me along. I was elected as the vice president few hours later.”
Shifting slightly in his seat, Kame gazed out, looking longingly at the dark sky “We were inseparable. Sure there were gossips, but there were baseless since there’s really nothing between us. We were two straight guys enjoying our youth. We dated women all the time, falling in and out of love. But no matter what happened, we always had each other to rely on.”
“I guess I end up relying too much on him” Kame quipped, staring blankly at the empty road.
Jin didn’t mutter a single word, hoping Kame would just continue pouring his heart out.
Kame cleared his throat “I freaked out. I even avoided him in the attempt to salvage my pride, tried to fix what’s wrong with me. But in the end, I’m just a broken toy.”
Spotting an empty parking space, Jin pulled the car to the side.
Sighing deeply, Kame then added with a quivering voice “I’ve already anticipated this day. It would come sooner than later. I saw how Maki brought the best out of him and I’m really happy for him. I just didn’t expect it to come this soon” Kame muttered under his breath, tapping his fingers silently “And now, I’m the best man.”
In that instant, Jin unbuckled his seatbelt and unexpectedly pulled Kame into his strong arms.
The younger guy was surprised, tried hard to push Jin away. But the other tightened his hold, securing his grip as he rubbed Kame’s back in small circles “Falling in love is scary.”
He flinched in surprise, again trying to free himself. But as the warmth seeped in through his skin, his last defenses faltered. Kame yield to the kindness offered.
”There’s nothing wrong with you. You’re not broken. I can’t even see any crack” Jin whispered inches away from Kame’s ears, sending an unfamiliar sensation “You look perfectly shiny to me.”
“Jin…”
“Shhh…”Jin hushed Kame with another squeeze “It’s so cold tonight. I guess winter’s finally here. Hope there’ll be snow soon.”
There was another long silence that filled the gap between them.
“Thanks” the only word that came up from Kame’s lips. A simple word that came straight from his heart.
**************
He woke up with a major headache. His eyes were still red, hair in a total mess, dragging his feet to the front door to stop the annoying banging on his door “What?” Kame yawned as he opened the door to his unwelcomed guest.
“What? You’re seriously asking me ‘What’?” Pi’s voice pierced painfully, shoving Kame to the side “What happened to you? Jin came back last night without wine or you. He said you’re not feeling well. I tried to call you since last night.”
Kame rubbed his eyes, and then noticed the small plaster at the corner of Pi’s lips “What happened to you?”
“That crazy bastard hit me last night” Pi explained, crashing onto Kame’s couch.
“Huh? Jin?” Kame exclaimed, touching the wound lighly “Why?”
“Ouch” Pi winced at the touch “I have no idea.”
Kame shook his head, trying to hide a smile. He stood up, leaving Pi behind “Coffee?”
“Black please” Pi reached for the remote “I really don’t get him. It’s like he had this major mood swing. He was all smiles one moment and then turned into an asshole the next”
He came back with the hot drinks and sat next to Pi.
“We were getting ready for bed when I asked him if he’s free today to check on the hotels for the wedding” Pi explained, slowly sipping his coffee “He said he’s alright with it. Then when I told him I’ll invite you as well, he went berserk calling me selfish bastard and all.”
Kame suddenly erupted with a loud guffaw at Jin’s explanation.
“Kame, it’s not funny at all” Pi elbowed Kame, leaving the other yelping in pain “I hit him back of course.”
“Ne Pi, I’m free today and I would love to tag along” Kame put down his mug “Now, let’s get Jin.”
“Why should I?” he stubbornly protest.
“Because he’s your cousin” Kame replied matter-of-factly. “But I need to stop by at the cake house first.”
“Are you getting another dessert for my mom?” Pi rolled his eyes.
“Of course…I didn’t properly bid her goodbye last night” Kame winked before he disappeared into his room.
*************
He heard the curtain being pulled aside, followed by the sun streaming merciless into the room. Jin rolled to the other side, grumbling under the covers.
He was tugging it tight when it was forcefully snatched from him, revealing a familiar face smiling mockingly at him “Are you going to sleep in the whole day?”
“Kame” Jin startled, quickly sitting up staring at the fresh looking guy “What are you doing here?”
“I believe we have a date today” Kame sat on the bed, letting his legs hanging at the side.
“A date?” Jin repeated in awe, quirking his brows questioningly.
“Yup, we’ll be helping Pi to check on the hotels” Kame answered with a smile.
But Jin did not share the same amusement as he pulled back his blanket and rolled back to his earlier position “I’m not going. And you should not as well”
“But I’m the best man” Kame replied, playfully poking Jin’s back.
“Do I look like I care?” a soft mumble was heard.
Kame chuckled softly, patting Jin gently on his back “If you’re worried about my feelings, don’t. I’m okay now”
Jin slowly pulled down the cover, peaking at Kame “Are you sure?”
Kame nodded, eyes smiling brightly “Thanks for beating him for me last night.”
**************
“I’m dead tired” Jin said as he pulled his car in front of Kame’s house “I never knew there are so many hotels here.”
“Yeah, I’m beat too. Glad Pi need to go off earlier for Maki’s family dinner” Kame replied stretching his arms freely “Who knows where we’d end up if he’s free tonight. Love hotels?”
“Kinky…I like” Jin winked at Kame “We can do a threesome.”
“Haha. You’re funny” Kame replied sarcastically.
“I know” Jin smirked,
Kame knew he should get out but his heart was telling him to stay. At least for few more minutes. And seeing how Jin undid his seatbelt and lowered his seat slightly, leaning his back, he knew the other felt the same way. They let the silence do the talking.
Then several moments later, Jin turned towards Kame “Are you really okay?”
“Yes” Kame replied with conviction. Then he returned Jin’s gentle gaze “Thanks to you.”
A lopsided smile slowly appeared “Are you falling for me now?”
Kame would have hissed and walked out the car if Jin had said it yesterday. But today is a different story “Nope. You’re still an arrogant bastard. And I don’t fall for such types.”
“Well, you did fell for Pi” Jin applied his logic.
“Oh shut up” Kame unconsciously smacked Jin on his stomach. But unexpectedly Jin caught his hand, securely held it tight.
“And what if I told you that I’ve fallen for you?” Jin asked, his tone was serious, fingers reaching for Kame’s.
“Most probably, I’ll ask you to stop” Kame replied quietly, sensing Jin’s fingers slowly entangling with his.
“Unfortunately, I’m never good at holding back. Restraining is not my forte” Jin said, thumbs sensually rubbing Kame’s palm “But I can do ‘compromise’.”
“Really?” Kame let out a nervous laugh “How?”
“Instead of stopping me from falling for you” Jin said softly “I’ll wait till you fall for me instead.”
“God! You’re such an arrogant bastard” Kame shook his head in disbelief. But he was smiling when he said it, unable to hide his emotion.
“True. But you’ll fall for me just the same” Jin replied confidently.
Kame shifted in his seat, glad the street light was dim enough to hide his reddened cheeks from Jin’s prying eyes. “We’ll see. Well, I better go off now. I’m working tomorrow” Kame nervously licked his lips, wiggling his fingers off.
Jin obliged, leaning forward to check Kame’s house. Then his eyes caught the glimpse of falling snowflakes “It’s snowing.”
“It is? You got your wish then” Kame replied cheerfully. It may be the coldest day of the month, but he was sure feeling warm inside.
“Kame, do you know that if you watch the first snowfall of the year, your wish will come true?” Jin asked, staring fondly at the white flakes.
“Never heard of it” Kame shook his head.
Then Jin leaned in closer and pressed a chaste kiss on his soft lips “See, it already granted my wish.”
********** 6 Months Later **********
“Shit Kame, I think I’m going to be sick” Pi said, covering his mouth dramatically, squeezing himself next to his best man “All these butterflies in my stomach are torturing me.”
“Stop being a drama queen. You’re going to be fine” Kame rubbed his best friend’s back gently.
Pi leaned his head on Kame’s shoulder and sighed deeply “I’m really going to get married, aren’t I?”
Kame gingerly nodded “And you’re going to be a great husband. Maki is so lucky to have you.”
The other guy snuggled closer “Thanks Kame. Thanks for everything.”
“Hey, why are you getting all sappy? Nothing’s going change between us” Kame patted Pi’s brown mane “You’ll always be my best friend. You’re stuck with me forever.”
Then suddenly a voice interrupted them, scornfully staring at them with crossed arms “Excuse me, but don’t you think you’re being too honest declaring your vow to another man, while your own boyfriend is sitting in the same room?”
Pi tugged Kame’s arm closer “Kame will always love me more.”
Jin tried to step on Pi’s foot but the other was faster “You’re lucky I like Maki and hate to see her alone at the altar if I killed you now” Jin scoffed.
Seeing that another banter was about to happen, Kame quickly acted “I think it’s time for me to check on the guests” Kame said as he carefully stood up. He then leaned towards Jin and pressed his lips on the other’s tenderly grazing the parted lips.
“Kame you’re spoiling him” Pi whined.
Jin then turned Kame around, pulling him into the circle of his arms, “He’s mine.”
Kame chuckled at the rivalry between the two. While caressing Jin’s long fingers he gave Pi a gentle smile “Ne Pi, it’s me who should thank you. It’s you who taught me the meaning of love and how painful it was losing it” then slowly leaning back onto Jin’s chest as he added “And thanks to you I learned how to fall in love again.”
“Huh?” Pi looked up questioningly.
Kame smiled and wiggled himself from Jin’s embrace, strutting gracefully in his dark grey suit, out of the dressing room.
“What’s that all about?” Pi asked, annoyed with the smug smile on Jin’s face.
“It’s a secret I will never share with you” Jin answered, plopping himself next to Pi. Then with a sly smile, he added “But one thing for sure, it is your biggest loss and truly my greatest gain.
********************
Hope this is not a fail to you guys (^_^) Thanks for all the lovely comments in the previous Akame fic. I'm a bit slow in replying comment, but I sure will reply to each of it...*hugs* ”
Pairing(s): Akame, Pikame (Friendship)
Rating: PG
Genre: AU, where Jin and Pi are cousins; while Kame is the cute family's friend.
Warnings: Nothing much, except that there's Pi, making things a bit complicated.
Summary: It's a funny fact of life that things rarely go as planned.
A/N: (1) This was written for silent_melody90at the amigo_santasecond round exchange ( HERE). Below is the picture prompt, came along with the line 'First snow of the year'.
(2) I had a really tough time completing this fic as my Akame muse was trolling with me. But I had a wonderful beta, supporting me all the way. Thanks so much dear (*youwhoshallnotbenamed*)
"First snow of the year."
“Kamenashi-kun, you’re late." A pretty lady dressed in white and flimsy floral apron opened the door eagerly, stepping aside to invite her guest in. "Come in. Come in. It must be freezing out there. I thought Tomo was supposed to pick you up from the station?”
Clad in a dark blue sweater, hiding his favorite t-shirt paired with his vintage jeans, Kame nodded politely, handing his host a medium sized silver box, "Yeah, but then I could not pick this up for you if he did."
Her eyes brightened as she carefully lifted the box's lid “Ah my favorite cream puffs. You're so sweet.”
But before Kame could reply, loud footsteps were heard rushing down the staircase followed by Pi's squeaky voice "Are you seducing my mom with desserts again?"
"Well, at least he knows how to treat a lady" she smacked her son's head playfully before disappearing into the kitchen, singing softly to the tune of the TV commercials that came from the other room.
Pi pouted slightly, comfortably clinging around Kame’s shoulders. “Sometimes I feel she loves you more than me."
"I feel the same way too" Kame replied with a smug smile before breaking into a light laughter as Pi’s foot accidently banged into a side table when he tried to kick Kame.
The guy wailed painfully, hopping on his other foot trying to ease the throbbing. But then, Pi lost his balance, dragging Kame along as they crashed into the wall in a compromising position.
Kame’s giggles turned into moans. Both were still frowning in pain when a voice came out of nowhere “Ano, am I interrupting something?”
Kame looked up, blinking confusedly at the stranger who was standing at the top of the stairs staring amusedly at him. He looked familiar but Kame could not put a name to the handsome face. Feeling the warm sensation creeping on his cheeks as their eyes met, Kame quickly wiggled himself away from Pi.
“I fell onto him” Pi explained as he pulled himself up, extending his hands to Kame.
“How convenient” the guy replied with a knowing smile, retracing his footsteps.
Pi sighed deeply “You still remember my cousin don’t you?” he asked, leading Kame to his room.
“Cousin?” Kame bit his lips as he tried to recall the familiar face.
“Yup. We went to his brother’s wedding in Okinawa last year.” Pi answered as he pushed the door open. “The guy who insisted to give his best man’s speech in English even though no one can understand him” Pi added. “Well, he just returned from US, saying something about finding his true love. I bet he just run out of money.”
“How about this one?” the guy ignored Pi’s remark, holding a black and silver striped shirt out.
Kame quirked his brows, observing the fluffy honey brown locks softly covering the guy’s deep brown eyes, as he hesitantly answered “Akanishi-kun?”
“Glad you still remember me. You can call me Jin though” he continued ransacking the closet, pulling another flashy looking shirt “This one?”
“I’m not going clubbing, for god’s sake” Pi snapped, signaling Kame to sit on the floor since the bed was all covered with his clothes “Something simple will do.”
“You’re boring” the guy tossed the shirts onto the pile.
“And you’re not helping at all. Lucky Kame’s here now” Pi brushed his cousin aside.
“I’m glad he’s here too” Jin winked at Kame.
The younger guy frowned but turned his attention to Pi who held out a black t-shirt “How about this one?”
“Too predictable” Kame replied, walking towards the two, scanning over the messy closet “I’ll go with white shirt, if I’m you” he pulled a slightly crumpled off-white shirt with light floral print detail on the edges “But I think you should do some ironing first.”
Pi was about to reply when his phone rang. He quickly scanned the text message “I can’t. She’s here” He grabbed the white shirt and rushed out from the room leaving his two guests stunned.
“What’s so great about today?” Jin walked over and leaned on the wooden door frame, arms crossed, rolling his eyes as he listened to Pi’s excited voice echoed, greeting his new guest.
He didn’t know why, but Kame was getting a bit nervous being alone with the guy. The room somehow began to seem too small for them “Well, it’s the first time he’s going to introduce Maki to his parents. It is a big deal for him” Kame replied quietly trying to stay calm, folding the t-shirts neatly and arranging them in one corner.
“I still don’t get it. I brought girls to my place all the time. That doesn’t mean I should call for a family dinner for each one of them, right?” Jin turned his gaze to Kame, challenging him with his eyes.
“Well, I guess it’s different in the US” Kame replied, trying his best not to roll his eyes at the arrogant comment from the other. “Why don’t you go ahead? I’ll sort out the room a bit” Kame started to sort the pile, ignoring the intense stare the other guy was giving him.
“You hate me don’t you?” he said curtly.
Kame was startled but he simply pursed his lips, trying to find a suitable answer “I don’t even know you, to have such a strong feeling as hate.”
“Ouch” ignoring Kame’s politically correct answer, Jin asked another question “Why are you doing this?” he then walked towards Kame, deliberately sat on the bed, forcing the younger guy’s attention on him.
“Just in case Maki suddenly wanted to check Pi’s room later” Kame answered, amazed his voice was still calm despite the sudden throbbing.
“That’s not my question” he bounced off the bed and took the clothes Kame had diligently sorted, carrying it off and swiftly dumped the whole stack at the bottom of the closet, smirking devilishly at Kame flabbergasted state.
He was about to repeat the action when Kame stopped him immediately “Hey stop it. You’re making a mess. Let me do it instead.”
“You’re not his wife” Jin scoffed “What others think of his messy bedroom is none of your business.”
“What’s wrong with you?” Kame snapped, pushing Jin away from the neatly folded clothes. His voice quivered incredulously “Why are you purposely picking fight with me?”
“You love him don’t you” Jin said indifferently, brushing the startled Kame aside as he grabbed and tossed another batch of clothing in. He kicked the closet’s door close and locked it.
“I do not” Kame stammered, his face heated up, angry that Jin, someone he considered a stranger, was able to read his deepest thoughts.
“I saw the way you looked at him during the wedding” Jin replied quietly “You’ve always love him, don’t you? And that baka don’t even know about it”
****************
Dinner was excellent as Yamashita-san prepared all her best dishes, insisting that Kame and Maki try it all, but jokingly warned Pi and Jin that they should watched over their waistlines instead.
Pi’s dad was very endearing, sharing endless jokes with Maki who tried her best to laugh at all of them. Pi tried to stop him halfway through dinner, but failed miserably. But lucky for them, Rina came back late and earned a full blown lecture on time management from the devoted father.
Everything was great and everyone seemed so relaxed, except for the tense aura oozing between Kame and Jin who were seated next to each other. Lucky for them, everyone seemed too busy with their own conversations to notice it.
“Coffee, anyone?” Yamashita-san called out, putting the freshly-cut mix fruits on the coffee table as everyone settled in the living room.
“I’m good” Kame replied swiftly, taking his seat at one of the corners “I need to sleep early tonight.”
“I’ll have one” Jin answered as he settled next to Rina, but his eyes were fixed on the younger guy, knowing well the other was trying to avoid him.
“Can I help you out?” Maki offered but Yamashita-san quickly declined. She returned soon after, carrying colorful mugs of some fragrant beverage and a plate of the cream puffs.
“So, tell me, how did you guys met?” Rina asked Maki cheerfully.
“We went to the same French language class” Maki sheepishly replied, taking a sip of her coffee. “Tomo-kun was assigned as my class partner.”
“Then he wooed you with his French. Oh, that’s so romantic” Rina gushed.
“Why are you taking French class?” Jin asked Pi bluntly.
The other guy rolled his eyes “Why not?”
With a devilish smirk, Jin nodded approvingly. He took another sip of his coffee before directing his sparkling eyes to Kame again “I’m more interested to know how you met Kame-chan though.”
The younger guy bit his lips, annoyed that Jin called him by his pet name as if they’ve known each other well.
Pi sighed at his cousin’s antics, knowing Kame’s pet peeve well “We went to the same college. Hit it well from the start and become best friends. We even ended up in the same club.”
“You wouldn’t believe which club they were in” Rina exclaimed, laughter erupted as she gleefully announced.
“Rina…” Kame grumbled in protest, hating how Jin was mocking him with his haughty smile.
A soft chuckle escaped from Maki. Pi rewarded her with his famous pout, whining exaggeratedly.
As for Jin, he provoked Kame further “That sounds so gay.”
“Well, at least we have real activities” Pi snapped, throwing a limp cushion at Jin’s direction “Right, Kame?”
“I guess, we just have a different definition of what’s a club is compared to Akanishi-san’s” Kame added with a stubborn pout.
“Oh oh… One point for Kamenashi-kun” Rina clapped.
“I see” Jin replied apathetically, plopping the cushion on his lap “And you know what, I would love to show you my definition of clubs.”
“Eww! That sounds nasty” Rina exclaimed, throwing another cushion towards Jin’s direction.
“Stop it with the pillow fight” Yamashita-san quickly interrupted, worried over her vases.
Then her husband added “Tomo, you mentioned earlier about making an announcement right?”
“Is it a promotion?” Pi’s mother quickly interjected, beaming excitedly.
“A different type of promotion I guess” Pi replied, extended his hands to Maki. Kame noticed the adoring stare the two shared, feeling his stomach tying into a knot, sensing something bad will happen. Both Pi and Maki then stood up swiftly, smiling at the expectant crowd “We’re getting married.”
It was the unexpected news Kame had always dreaded, wishing he was not there to receive it. His mouth felt dry, eyes trained on his feet. Taking a deep breath.
Pi’s parents were so happy, they were clinging to their son and happily welcoming the soon to be daughter-in-law with the warmest hug. Rina grabbed her phone and started texting their other close relatives over the great news.
Kame was still quiet at his corner when he suddenly felt a light squeeze on his shoulder. He slowly lifted his head and saw Jin soft eyes, encouraging. Kame shut his eyes tight, wanting wake up from the nightmare. A moment later, he finally opened his eyes as he took a glimpsed at the happy couple, painfully accepting the bitter reality.
Pi’s smile was the brightest he had ever seen. And Kame told himself, that was enough for him. His legs were slightly shaky, but with the little strength Jin gave him, he carefully walked towards Pi, extending his hands out “Congratulations.”
His best friend’s smile grew wider, eyes sparkled brightly. Instead of taking the offered hand, Pi pulled Kame into his arms, hold him tight “Thanks, Kame. Thanks for always staying by my side. Will you be my best man?”
Kame wanted to say yes, knowing that’s the only answer for him. But he was afraid his voice will betray him, feeling the warm droplets he tried so hard to hold back finally grazed down his cheeks. He licked his lips, salty “I’m…”
Suddenly his body was jerked away, pulled by a sturdy force. He snapped his head in the direction, seeing Jin’s strong grip securing around his arms, yanking him away from Pi.
“This call for a celebration” Jin announced grimly, dragging Kame out from the living room, ignoring the curious stares the others were giving them.
“Where are you guys going?” Pi asked urgently, staring at Kame’s red eyes worriedly.
Jin pushed Kame out of the house indignantly “Kame and I going out to get some wine.”
************
They rode in total silence for a minute or two, just focused on the road. Both lost in their own thoughts, welcoming the quietness. Jin was driving in circles, leisurely cruising on the empty street, neither know where to go, nor care where they’ll end up.
Kame was the first who broke the silence, clearing his voice with a fake cough, voice laced with raw emotion “It was my first year in college when I met him. Though we had almost all the same classes, we never talked to each other until that one fateful day when he ended up sitting next to me in our History of Philosophy class. Well, actually, he was snoring shamelessly” Kame chuckled softly at the piece of memory. “Unexpectedly, he was called to answer a question by our sadistic lecturer. Lucky for Pi, I was pretty much awake with a set of answers. The rest is history”
Jin listened in silence, nodding quietly as Kame continued, walking through the memory lane.
“Pi gets into trouble all the time. He’s like a walking disaster magnet” Kame added with a chuckle. “During our second year; he got into this silly bet, I’m not even going to tell you what it was about, and he lost miserably. As punishment, he ended up as the UFO club’s president. But of course, anything he’s in, he’ll dragged me along. I was elected as the vice president few hours later.”
Shifting slightly in his seat, Kame gazed out, looking longingly at the dark sky “We were inseparable. Sure there were gossips, but there were baseless since there’s really nothing between us. We were two straight guys enjoying our youth. We dated women all the time, falling in and out of love. But no matter what happened, we always had each other to rely on.”
“I guess I end up relying too much on him” Kame quipped, staring blankly at the empty road.
Jin didn’t mutter a single word, hoping Kame would just continue pouring his heart out.
Kame cleared his throat “I freaked out. I even avoided him in the attempt to salvage my pride, tried to fix what’s wrong with me. But in the end, I’m just a broken toy.”
Spotting an empty parking space, Jin pulled the car to the side.
Sighing deeply, Kame then added with a quivering voice “I’ve already anticipated this day. It would come sooner than later. I saw how Maki brought the best out of him and I’m really happy for him. I just didn’t expect it to come this soon” Kame muttered under his breath, tapping his fingers silently “And now, I’m the best man.”
In that instant, Jin unbuckled his seatbelt and unexpectedly pulled Kame into his strong arms.
The younger guy was surprised, tried hard to push Jin away. But the other tightened his hold, securing his grip as he rubbed Kame’s back in small circles “Falling in love is scary.”
He flinched in surprise, again trying to free himself. But as the warmth seeped in through his skin, his last defenses faltered. Kame yield to the kindness offered.
”There’s nothing wrong with you. You’re not broken. I can’t even see any crack” Jin whispered inches away from Kame’s ears, sending an unfamiliar sensation “You look perfectly shiny to me.”
“Jin…”
“Shhh…”Jin hushed Kame with another squeeze “It’s so cold tonight. I guess winter’s finally here. Hope there’ll be snow soon.”
There was another long silence that filled the gap between them.
“Thanks” the only word that came up from Kame’s lips. A simple word that came straight from his heart.
**************
He woke up with a major headache. His eyes were still red, hair in a total mess, dragging his feet to the front door to stop the annoying banging on his door “What?” Kame yawned as he opened the door to his unwelcomed guest.
“What? You’re seriously asking me ‘What’?” Pi’s voice pierced painfully, shoving Kame to the side “What happened to you? Jin came back last night without wine or you. He said you’re not feeling well. I tried to call you since last night.”
Kame rubbed his eyes, and then noticed the small plaster at the corner of Pi’s lips “What happened to you?”
“That crazy bastard hit me last night” Pi explained, crashing onto Kame’s couch.
“Huh? Jin?” Kame exclaimed, touching the wound lighly “Why?”
“Ouch” Pi winced at the touch “I have no idea.”
Kame shook his head, trying to hide a smile. He stood up, leaving Pi behind “Coffee?”
“Black please” Pi reached for the remote “I really don’t get him. It’s like he had this major mood swing. He was all smiles one moment and then turned into an asshole the next”
He came back with the hot drinks and sat next to Pi.
“We were getting ready for bed when I asked him if he’s free today to check on the hotels for the wedding” Pi explained, slowly sipping his coffee “He said he’s alright with it. Then when I told him I’ll invite you as well, he went berserk calling me selfish bastard and all.”
Kame suddenly erupted with a loud guffaw at Jin’s explanation.
“Kame, it’s not funny at all” Pi elbowed Kame, leaving the other yelping in pain “I hit him back of course.”
“Ne Pi, I’m free today and I would love to tag along” Kame put down his mug “Now, let’s get Jin.”
“Why should I?” he stubbornly protest.
“Because he’s your cousin” Kame replied matter-of-factly. “But I need to stop by at the cake house first.”
“Are you getting another dessert for my mom?” Pi rolled his eyes.
“Of course…I didn’t properly bid her goodbye last night” Kame winked before he disappeared into his room.
*************
He heard the curtain being pulled aside, followed by the sun streaming merciless into the room. Jin rolled to the other side, grumbling under the covers.
He was tugging it tight when it was forcefully snatched from him, revealing a familiar face smiling mockingly at him “Are you going to sleep in the whole day?”
“Kame” Jin startled, quickly sitting up staring at the fresh looking guy “What are you doing here?”
“I believe we have a date today” Kame sat on the bed, letting his legs hanging at the side.
“A date?” Jin repeated in awe, quirking his brows questioningly.
“Yup, we’ll be helping Pi to check on the hotels” Kame answered with a smile.
But Jin did not share the same amusement as he pulled back his blanket and rolled back to his earlier position “I’m not going. And you should not as well”
“But I’m the best man” Kame replied, playfully poking Jin’s back.
“Do I look like I care?” a soft mumble was heard.
Kame chuckled softly, patting Jin gently on his back “If you’re worried about my feelings, don’t. I’m okay now”
Jin slowly pulled down the cover, peaking at Kame “Are you sure?”
Kame nodded, eyes smiling brightly “Thanks for beating him for me last night.”
**************
“I’m dead tired” Jin said as he pulled his car in front of Kame’s house “I never knew there are so many hotels here.”
“Yeah, I’m beat too. Glad Pi need to go off earlier for Maki’s family dinner” Kame replied stretching his arms freely “Who knows where we’d end up if he’s free tonight. Love hotels?”
“Kinky…I like” Jin winked at Kame “We can do a threesome.”
“Haha. You’re funny” Kame replied sarcastically.
“I know” Jin smirked,
Kame knew he should get out but his heart was telling him to stay. At least for few more minutes. And seeing how Jin undid his seatbelt and lowered his seat slightly, leaning his back, he knew the other felt the same way. They let the silence do the talking.
Then several moments later, Jin turned towards Kame “Are you really okay?”
“Yes” Kame replied with conviction. Then he returned Jin’s gentle gaze “Thanks to you.”
A lopsided smile slowly appeared “Are you falling for me now?”
Kame would have hissed and walked out the car if Jin had said it yesterday. But today is a different story “Nope. You’re still an arrogant bastard. And I don’t fall for such types.”
“Well, you did fell for Pi” Jin applied his logic.
“Oh shut up” Kame unconsciously smacked Jin on his stomach. But unexpectedly Jin caught his hand, securely held it tight.
“And what if I told you that I’ve fallen for you?” Jin asked, his tone was serious, fingers reaching for Kame’s.
“Most probably, I’ll ask you to stop” Kame replied quietly, sensing Jin’s fingers slowly entangling with his.
“Unfortunately, I’m never good at holding back. Restraining is not my forte” Jin said, thumbs sensually rubbing Kame’s palm “But I can do ‘compromise’.”
“Really?” Kame let out a nervous laugh “How?”
“Instead of stopping me from falling for you” Jin said softly “I’ll wait till you fall for me instead.”
“God! You’re such an arrogant bastard” Kame shook his head in disbelief. But he was smiling when he said it, unable to hide his emotion.
“True. But you’ll fall for me just the same” Jin replied confidently.
Kame shifted in his seat, glad the street light was dim enough to hide his reddened cheeks from Jin’s prying eyes. “We’ll see. Well, I better go off now. I’m working tomorrow” Kame nervously licked his lips, wiggling his fingers off.
Jin obliged, leaning forward to check Kame’s house. Then his eyes caught the glimpse of falling snowflakes “It’s snowing.”
“It is? You got your wish then” Kame replied cheerfully. It may be the coldest day of the month, but he was sure feeling warm inside.
“Kame, do you know that if you watch the first snowfall of the year, your wish will come true?” Jin asked, staring fondly at the white flakes.
“Never heard of it” Kame shook his head.
Then Jin leaned in closer and pressed a chaste kiss on his soft lips “See, it already granted my wish.”
********** 6 Months Later **********
“Shit Kame, I think I’m going to be sick” Pi said, covering his mouth dramatically, squeezing himself next to his best man “All these butterflies in my stomach are torturing me.”
“Stop being a drama queen. You’re going to be fine” Kame rubbed his best friend’s back gently.
Pi leaned his head on Kame’s shoulder and sighed deeply “I’m really going to get married, aren’t I?”
Kame gingerly nodded “And you’re going to be a great husband. Maki is so lucky to have you.”
The other guy snuggled closer “Thanks Kame. Thanks for everything.”
“Hey, why are you getting all sappy? Nothing’s going change between us” Kame patted Pi’s brown mane “You’ll always be my best friend. You’re stuck with me forever.”
Then suddenly a voice interrupted them, scornfully staring at them with crossed arms “Excuse me, but don’t you think you’re being too honest declaring your vow to another man, while your own boyfriend is sitting in the same room?”
Pi tugged Kame’s arm closer “Kame will always love me more.”
Jin tried to step on Pi’s foot but the other was faster “You’re lucky I like Maki and hate to see her alone at the altar if I killed you now” Jin scoffed.
Seeing that another banter was about to happen, Kame quickly acted “I think it’s time for me to check on the guests” Kame said as he carefully stood up. He then leaned towards Jin and pressed his lips on the other’s tenderly grazing the parted lips.
“Kame you’re spoiling him” Pi whined.
Jin then turned Kame around, pulling him into the circle of his arms, “He’s mine.”
Kame chuckled at the rivalry between the two. While caressing Jin’s long fingers he gave Pi a gentle smile “Ne Pi, it’s me who should thank you. It’s you who taught me the meaning of love and how painful it was losing it” then slowly leaning back onto Jin’s chest as he added “And thanks to you I learned how to fall in love again.”
“Huh?” Pi looked up questioningly.
Kame smiled and wiggled himself from Jin’s embrace, strutting gracefully in his dark grey suit, out of the dressing room.
“What’s that all about?” Pi asked, annoyed with the smug smile on Jin’s face.
“It’s a secret I will never share with you” Jin answered, plopping himself next to Pi. Then with a sly smile, he added “But one thing for sure, it is your biggest loss and truly my greatest gain.
********************
Hope this is not a fail to you guys (^_^) Thanks for all the lovely comments in the previous Akame fic. I'm a bit slow in replying comment, but I sure will reply to each of it...*hugs* ”