Tenimyu_slash contest fic: Christmas at Kime's
Title: Christmas at Kime's
Author: Rune
Warnings/Ratings: PG-13 for boys kissing ^^
Pairing: Tuti/Nagayan, Abe/Kimeru, hints about Souta/Naoya; Mori/Daiki
Notes: 8,500+ words. A party at Kime's. Christmas is nothing without the mistletoe! Ah, a small mention of YanaKou's accident...I couldn't help it. ^^; angst is my calling. (I can put it here for the txn....right? XD)
Author notes at the end.
"Christmas at Kime's"
Outside tinted glass windows, snow spiraled slowly to the ground and joined the puddles of slush kicked up from passers-by.
Nagayan stared out the window, sighing softly. He had been sitting in the small coffee shop for close to half an hour and still Tuti hadn’t shown up.
A soft touch on his shoulder startled him from his thoughts. Nagayan looked up at the waitress who had disturbed him.
“Would you like something sir? You’ve been sitting here a while…”
Nagayan shook his head lightly, giving a small smile. “No thank you. I’m waiting for someone… Maybe later.” He turned back to the window only to gasp in surprise.
Tuti stared back at him from the window with a wide grin, waving enthusiastically. Once Nagayan got over the initial shock, he began to smile back. The man outside moved to enter the coffee shop, unwinding his scarf and slipping off his jacket. He hung both over the back of the chair opposite to Nagayan’s before sitting down.
"Gomen, Takashi. I didn’t mean to be so late. I was held back-"
“I understand.” Nagayan cut in, still smiling, before turning to the waitress who was still standing there patiently. “Ah, two hot chocolates please…”
When the waitress went off, Nagayan turned to his friend.
"I know I said three o’clock, but they didn’t let me leave until just a few-" Tuti was cut off by the other man’s laugh.
“I thought I said it was okay.” At the warm look in the other’s eyes, Tuti relented.
“Aa…”
The waitress interrupted them a moment later with two steaming mugs of hot chocolate. Nagayan grinned, thanking her, and picked up his mug, blowing across the dark liquid. He glanced outside, and Tuti thought he saw a flicker of something in the other man’s soft brown eyes.
“Takashi?”
Nagayan turned. “Hai?”
“Is something wrong?” Tuti’s forehead creased slightly as it always did when he got worried.
Nagayan shook his head. “Just thinking.”
Tuti studied him for a second before suddenly exclaiming. “Oh! That’s right!” He shoved a hand into his pocket. “I almost forgot.” He pulled out a small key chain. A small gold plated pear hung from the chain. He grinned. “I didn’t have time to wrap it or anything, because I bought it on my way over…”
Nagayan looked at the object, and then started to laugh. “A golden pear?”
Tuti nodded, still grinning. “I know. I saw it and it reminded me of… you know, when we were in Tenimyu… I know I missed your birthday…” He smiled guiltily. "So I got this. I know it’s small, but-"
“It’s perfect.” Nagayan cut in, taking the offered gift with a little laugh. “I know you were at a rehearsal, and we’ve both been busy since…”
He looked down at the delicate charm. It gave him a weird feeling in his stomach just thinking that Tuti had gone out of his way just to get a small key chain - a golden pear nonetheless. It meant a lot to him that Tuti seemed to cherish the time they’d spent as the Golden Pair.
“Thank you, Tuti…” He began, when his phone rang. He pulled it out of his pocket, glancing at the display.
“Oh… It’s Kime.” He looked up at Tuti, who shrugged, then he flipped open the phone.
“Hai?”
“Ah, Takashi. How are things?”
“Good…” He smiled at Tuti, and then looked out the window. “And how is the great Kirakira-chan?”
“Oh, it’s okay.” He heard the younger man sigh, and knew something was up.
“Kime?"
“Is Tuti there with you?”
Nagayan cast a puzzled glance at Tuti. “Yes, why?”
“I’m holding a Christmas party on Christmas Eve at my place. The whole first cast from the Tenimyu are invited.”
“Really?” Nagayan grinned. “That’s great! We’ll be there.” After a quick goodbye, he turned to Tuti. “Kime’s having a party on Christmas Eve, and we’re invited. The other cast members also."
The taller man grinned. “I’ll try and be there on time. I have another rehearsal in the afternoon…”
Nagayan nodded. “Okay. I might try and be there early, since I’m sure Kime would like some help setting up.” He took a sip of his cooling hot chocolate, watching Tuti do the same.
They spent a few minutes in companionable silence. Nagayan smiled into his mug as he felt Tuti’s knee brush his under the table.
After they had graduated from the musicals, he and Tuti had tried their best to keep in touch. Though Tuti had a busy schedule, they had managed to find time to spend together in their Bleach musical rehearsals and sporadic hours during the week.
Nagayan had realized back then, when they started up Bleach, that something between them had changed. They no longer spent time trying to think of things to say around each other, since their actions spoke without words. If Tuti left for lunch break during one of their rehearsals and Nagayan was hungry, the older man wouldn’t have to say anything, Tuti always returned with a plate heaped with enough food to fill them both up. Without noticing it, they’d become a lot more like the fictional Golden Pair than they’d thought.
When Nagayan looked up at the other, Tuti was smiling. A blush came up unwillingly to his face. “What?” He mumbled, though couldn’t help smile as well. His heart nearly skipped a beat when Tuti leaned over the table to brush a stray wisp of hair from his face. Nagayan felt his blush deepen at their proximity. “T-Tuti?”
As if shocked, the younger man recoiled. “Ah, gomen, Takashi! It was just in the way…” He stood up abruptly, picking up his jacket.
“Tuti?” Nagayan frowned, standing up as well.
“I just remembered, I have to meet with Eiji!” Tuti threw his jacket on and grabbed his scarf before backing out of the café. “Sorry!”
Before Nagayan had a chance to protest, he had disappeared into the swirling mass of snow outside. Nagayan stared into his half empty mug of cold cocoa after Tuti left, a deep frown on his face. It was fifteen minutes later when he rose and collected his things and paid the small bill before hurrying out into the cold, already late for his next magazine interview.
~*~
The snow was beginning to fall in thicker clumps as the evening wore on. Kimeru absolutely loved the snow, and he’d managed to wheedle his way into leaving his recording session early. He walked into the deserted park across the street, bundled up tightly in a designer coat, with a thick, woolen scarf around his neck. He kept his hands shoved deep into his pockets, since he’d forgotten his gloves in a rush to leave the house that morning. He truthfully didn’t mind the cold that much.
Spinning around once in the snow, he let out a small laugh. Peaceful, secluded times like these were a rarity, and he intended to take full advantage of it. It wasn’t often that he had an hour or so to himself without getting a phone call from his manager, or from some other important being. He could only hope he got at least six hours of sleep a night as it was.
He continued on through the park, dragging his feet. Looking ahead, he saw a figure blurred out by the falling snow. He slowed his pace. Who else would be walking around in the evening through the snow? Not a lot of people did. Kimeru narrowed his eyes, trying to make out the figure. As they approached each other, the brunet caught glimpse of a tan jacket and wavy brown hair. His curiosity peaked when the figure spoke.
“Kimeru…?”
It had been almost a year since his friend had left for America, but he recognized the voice as if they had spoken only yesterday.
“…Abe?”
The figure, proven indeed to be Abe, gave a loud laugh and jogged the last few paces over. “It is you!” He smiled.
Kimeru laughed as well, throwing his arms around his old friend. “You’re back! How long ago…?”
Abe chuckled. “I got back today. I was heading to the studio… don’t you get off in an hour?” He asked suspiciously.
“I left early.” The shorter man smiled. He couldn’t help a small blush at the thought that Abe had been coming to the studio to see him.
“Ah…Aren’t you cold…?” Abe glanced down, seeing that the bottom of Kimeru’s pants were wet with clinging snow, and could feel the cold press of the other’s hands against the back of his neck.
Kimeru just shrugged. “I don’t mind it.”
“Your hands are freezing.” Abe smiled, slipping off his gloves and putting them in his pocket. He reached up and took Kimeru’s hands in his own, holding them together. “Don’t you have a pair of gloves?”
“I forgot them…” He admitted guiltily, sighing at the warmth of Abe’s hands.
“Well, then take mine.” He removed one hand, getting his gloves from his pocket. He slipped them over Kimeru’s hands slowly, smiling back at the other.
"W-what about you?" Kimeru could feel the warmth left over from Abe's hands still in the gloves.
"Eh, I'll be alright." Abe continued to smile. "My hands are always warm."
Kimeru nodded, then sighed. "It's almost Christmas. Are you going to be staying...?"
Abe looked up into the snow that continued to fall. "I will. I don't think I'll be going anywhere for a while."
"Good." Kimeru grinned. "Then you'll come to my party? It's on Christmas Eve. All of the first cast have been invited..."
"Of course." He chuckled.
Clapping his gloved hands together, Kimeru nodded. "Right. Now I have to get some shopping done before I head home for dinner. Care to join me?"
The taller man grinned. "Lead the way, Kime."
Kimeru smiled back. "You're going to have to tell me everything that's happened since we last saw each other..."
Abe gave the other a warm look. "And you're going to have to tell me about everything I've missed."
The two began to walk in the direction Kimeru had been originally traveling, talking about Abe's trip along the way. Partway through, Abe paused, staring up at the sky.
"Abe...?" Kimeru stopped, looking back at him.
"The snow's really pretty, ne? I forgot how nice it was in Japan. They didn't have snow where I was..."
Kimeru blinked then glanced up as well. "I guess so, yes." He heard his friend approach him and looked back at him.
"I like how the snow is in your hair." He smiled, reaching out a hand to gently touch the crystallized fragments that had stuck in Kimeru's light hair. "It makes you look even more beautiful."
The shorter man could feel his face heating up at the comment. "Abe..."
"I mean it." He twined his finger around a short lock of the other's hair, still smiling.
Kimeru couldn't help but notice how close the other was now. It made his blush deepen, and he glanced away. "The stores will be closing soon." He murmured.
As if a spell had been broken, Abe stepped back. "Right, well, let's continue." He was still smiling, as if nothing out of the ordinary had happened.
When they'd reached the end of the park the short moment between them had been pushed out of Kimeru's mind as conversation began to start up again.
Abe turned to him. "So who are you shopping for?"
Kimeru began to count off on his fingers. "I have... Takashi, Tuti, Eiji, and Yanagi."
Abe chuckled. "Oh? You've already gotten my gift?"
"Who says you're getting one?" Kimeru smirked, shoving him lightly with his shoulder. "I didn't even know you'd be around for Christmas until just now."
"Yeah, but somehow I think you've planned ahead." Abe smiled down at him. "I've already gotten yours after all..." he trailed off, already expecting the curious glint in the other man's eyes.
"Oh? You got me something? What could it be...?" Deep inside, though, Kimeru was nearly cartwheeling with glee. Abe had thought of him!
The taller man just chuckled. "Hi-mi-tsu!"
With a mock gasp, Kimeru pouted. "Well that's no fair. I'm just going to have to coax it out of you."
"Try as hard as you might, I won't spill this secret." Abe winked, then stepped away, heading down the sidewalk.
"Hey!" Kimeru jogged after him, grabbing onto his arm. "No fair, Abe."
"It's very fair, Kime. You'll have to wait until Christmas to get yours."
"B-but!" He pouted as he thought. "What can I do to persuade you?"
"Nothing~" Abe sang, then smiled down at the shorter man. "Just be patient for once, ne, Kimeru? I promise you the gift won't go anywhere."
The brunet should have caught the hint, but he was too busy trying to think of a way to get the secret out of his friend.
"Onegai?"
Abe sighed. "You're not going to give up are you?"
Kimeru shook his head, smiling innocently. "Just give me a hint, and I'll stop."
Abe thought for a moment, then shook his head. "No. No hints."
Kimeru blinked, not expecting that. "No hint?" He sighed.
"I said none." The taller man smiled. "Come on. Let's get your shopping done."
"Mou..." Kimeru rolled his eyes. "Fine." It never came to mind that he was still clinging to Abe's arm. Maybe it was because Abe was warm, or that he didn't want to slip on a patch of ice, but whatever the excuse was, he paid no mind.
~*~
It was Christmas Eve. The decorations were up, soft Christmas music was playing from the radio, and the Christmas tree had been bought, placed neatly in a corner of the main room. Kimeru was humming along with the radio, occupying himself with hanging the last few ornaments on the tree when he was interrupted.
"Hime-sama!" The doorbell rang not once, but three times in rapid succession. "Hime-samaaa!"
With a small laugh, Kimeru moved to open the door, only to be nearly knocked over by Nagayan as he hugged his friend. "Takashi," he laughed. “The party doesn't start for another hour."
"I know." Nagayan said simply, stepping away from Kimeru as he began to undo his bootlaces. "But I figured I'd come and help set up."
Kimeru rolled his eyes in good humor. "Fine. Then you can help in the kitchen. I still have to cook everything."
"Okay!" Nagayan grinned, heading off to the kitchen. "Wow, Kime... you have so much food here!" He peeked out to look at his friend. "Feeding the army, Hime-sama?"
Kimeru just snorted. "Eiji, Yanagi, and Yuuyan are coming remember?"
As if that was explanation enough, Nagayan retreated back into the kitchen, starting to sing along with the English Christmas song playing on the radio. "Jinguru beru...jinguru beru..."
Kime snickered. "You're horrible, Takashi."
Nagayan just stuck his tongue out at his best friend. "I'd like to see you do better."
Kimeru gave him his best superior look, then rolled his eyes, heading back to the tree. "Just hurry up with the food. It needs to be done in an hour."
Nagayan stuck out his tongue again. "Yes Hime-sama." He resumed his singing.
An hour later they had an assortment of easily prepared dishes ready to go, with enough leftovers to last through the night, and Kimeru was pleased. He and Nagayan started to set them out on the large table that took up half the main room when the doorbell rang.
"I'll get it!" Nagayan grinned, running to the door. When he opened it, he saw Yanagi and Endo, and they were bearing gifts.
"Meri Kurisumasu!" They yelled in unison, grinning. Nagayan flashed a victory sign with his fingers, moving aside to let them in.
"Ne, you're the first ones here! Kime! Yanagi-kun and Yuuyan are here!"
Kimeru’s voice reached them inside the small entryway. "In here!" The two boys headed into the other room as Nagayan closed the door.
When they were all saying their ‘hello’s, Nagayan heard a knock. He excused himself to get it. When he opened the door, he saw Souta.
“Hey!” He grinned.
“Will you move out of my way or will I have to shove you?” An annoyed voice came from behind the tall man.
Nagayan blinked. “Eh? Who else is here?”
Souta stepped into Kimeru’s house, looking a little put upon, and Naoya came behind him, shoving lightly. “Go, go!” He carried a few wrapped gifts under an arm.
Nagayan laughed. “Glad you could both make it! Everyone’s in the living room. You can put the gifts under the tree or something.” He paused as he noticed Souta seemed distracted. “Souta…?”
“Hm? Oh, right… tree.” He grinned, tearing his eyes away from the ceiling. He took Naoya’s arm. “Come along now…”
Naoya snickered, pulling his arm away. “Don’t be an idiot.” His cheeks were flushed, and he glanced at Nagayan in case he saw.
Nagayan was busy staring out the still open door. Abe was coming up the stairs at the end of the hall, a bundle of something covered in his arms.
“Konban wa, Takashi,” the taller brunet greeted. Nagayan looked at the bundle in his arms.
“What did you bring?” He asked, curious.
“Ah, nothing. Just part of a gift.” Abe waved it off, removing his shoes. “Oh. I happened to see Ishibashi and Takigawa along the way. Both said they couldn’t make it.”
“I’ll tell Kime then.” Nagayan smiled, closing the door. From the main room came a loud chorus of laughter. Both men headed away from the door to the other room, Abe staying behind a bit.
Kimeru looked over from where he was standing at the food table and caught Abe’s gaze. He grinned widely and walked over. “Hey…”
Nagayan glanced between the two and smirked, shaking his head before joining Yanagi and Endo on the couch.
Abe smiled back and couldn’t help noticing how shy Kimeru sounded. “I brought your gift…”
The shorter man’s eyes were immediately drawn to whatever was wrapped in Abe’s arms. He clapped his hands together. “Can I see it now?”
Abe chuckled. “No, not until later. You’re not supposed to open gifts on Christmas Eve.”
“Mou…” Kimeru sighed. “Fine, but as soon as that clock strikes midnight, I want it.”
The taller man just smiled. “I’m going to put it away. Don’t go looking for it. Don’t say you won’t either because I know you will.” He said quickly as Kimeru was about to protest. He took a step back, holding up a finger to mime he would be gone for just a minute, then turned around and headed off deeper into the singer’s home.
With a sigh, Kimeru returned to the living room. Nagayan and Yanagi were deep in conversation, whispering behind their hands to each other. Every now and then, Yanagi would giggle, then glance around the room to see if anyone heard him.
After a short minute, Abe returned to the living room, arms empty. Kimeru felt an itch of curiosity to go find whatever it was the taller man had hidden, but held it back. He smiled as Abe approached. They got within a few feet of each other when Souta exclaimed.
“Kime-chan! Where’d you put the alcohol, ne?” He grinned, stepping close and nudging the singer. “I know you have because your parties always do. In the kitchen like before?”
Kimeru stared at Souta, then rolled his eyes. “No point in hiding it here, you’d find it anyways.” He sighed, motioning vaguely towards the kitchen.
With a little chuckle under his breath, Abe watched Souta stalk off towards the kitchen. “The food looks nice.” He glanced at the table where Endo was currently piling up a plate of curry and rice.
“Ah, thank you.” Kimeru smiled, running a hand through his hair. “Takashi helped…”
They stood in a sort of awkward silence, until the doorbell started to ring again.
“I’ll get it!” Naoya walked over to the door, opening it.
“Hey, you’re not Kime!”
“Eiji! Hey!” There were a few laughs, and Moriyama came through the door, closely followed by a smiling Daiki. Even though the brunette wasn’t from the first cast, Kimeru was happy to allow it. It was only one exception after all.
He watched as Moriyama took Daiki’s jacket with a grin, hooking both on the pegs Kimeru had on the wall. They removed their boots and came into the main room.
Nagayan looked up from his conversation with Yanagi. “Hi, Eiji-kun!” He smiled. Yanagi greeting him as well, and Endo gave a muffled ‘Hi’ around a mouthful of potatoes. Nagayan scanned the small crowd that had built up with a small frown, then sighed, turning back to whatever Yanagi had started to say, pretending to listen to the boy as his thoughts began to wander.
Kimeru watched his friend for a moment, before noticing that Tuti hadn’t arrived yet. His voiced this to Abe.
“Tuti? Well, you know he always was late…”
Moriyama was making a beeline for the food when he heard this. “Oh, Tuti? He was kept back for a longer rehearsal. Needed to work on some things for this dance number of his. He might be finished at around…” He paused to check his watch. “Nine tonight, if lucky.”
“Nine?” Kimeru frowned slightly, looking up at the clock that hung on the wall. It was still eight o’clock. One hour without Tuti. They’d make it. But Kimeru didn’t think Nagayan would, without at least one pout that is.
“Eiji!” Souta’s voice called from the kitchen. “Join me! I found Kime’s booze!”
Kimeru gave a panicked look to Moriyama, who just grinned. The taller man headed off towards the kitchen, food forgotten. Kimeru gave a sigh.
“That’s it. We’re in for it now. They’re going to mix some strange concoction like last year and get everyone plastered, and then I’ll be the one cleaning up.”
Abe chuckled, patting Kimeru’s shoulder. “Ah, daijoubu. If things get messy, I’ll stick around to help clean.”
Kimeru glanced down at the hand covering his shoulder with a blush, then shrugged lightly. “Okay…”
An hour later, Moriyama and Souta were still in the kitchen mixing who knows what, Daiki was contemplating going after Mori, Yanagi and Endo were still eating, Abe was sitting, just listening to the music, and Kimeru was trying to talk to his best friend.
“Takashi.” He sighed. “Come on. Stop being so pouty. I’m sure he’ll show up soon.” He glanced up at the clock. “It’s almost nine.”
“You sure Eiji said nine?” Nagayan mumbled, glancing over at Kimeru.
“Positive.” He smiled, ruffling the other man’s hair. “Don’t worry, ne? He’ll show up. It’s a party, he’s been invited, and you’re here. What more incentive could he have?”
Nagayan blushed slightly. “Urusai, Kime…”
“You know it!” Kimeru laughed, shoving his best friend. “Don’t deny anything, Takashi. I’ve seen the way he looks at you.”
Looking up in what he hoped didn’t look like curiosity, Nagayan asked. “You have…?”
Kimeru smirked. “Hai. His eyes go all moony and wide. ‘Oh Takashi, how I want to say how much I love you, but-‘”
“Urusai!!” Nagayan laughed, his face red as he shoved Kimeru back, knocking him into Abe. “I’m going to the bathroom.” He shook his head, getting up and heading down the hall.
Kimeru had fallen back into Abe’s chest when his friend had pushed him. Looking up, he could feel the taller man tense. Instead of shoving him away, like Kimeru had thought, Abe smiled.
“You shouldn’t tease him like that, you know.”
Kimeru paused, then shrugged. “It’s fun, plus I know he doesn’t mind it much. He’s just worried that Tuti won’t show up.” Kimeru sat up slowly, looking away.
"He has enough reason to. With the weather as it is, I wonder how Tuti's getting here. The conditions are pretty bad." Abe's smile faded a bit.
"Oh don't you start too." Kimeru sighed. "We've had enough of our share of winter accidents... we don't need any more thoughts on them." He glanced over at Yanagi, who was currently laughing over something Endo had said. His chest suddenly felt constricted at the thought of something like that happening again to one of his close friends. He wouldn't be able to go through something like that all over. Kimeru felt a hand touch his thigh and he turned his head back to Abe.
"I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said anything. I'm sure Tuti will make it here fine. He'll probably just take the train."
Kimeru gave a weak smile, then with slight hesitance, dropped his hand over Abe's. "You're right. No sense worrying over nothing." He looked shyly up at his friend. "Ne?"
Abe nodded, giving the singer's hand a gentle squeeze. "You know, when you worry, you get this little wrinkle right... there" He grinned, poking Kimeru's forehead.
Kimeru's eyes widened slightly. "A wrinkle...?"
Abe nodded. "Its from worrying too much." He brushed his thumb over the faded mark. It had most likely appeared during the whole episode with Yanagi's accident. "You shouldn't, you know."
Kimeru just gave a strained smile. "If I don't, who will?"
Abe's returned smile was warm and comforting. "You don't have to take all of this on as your burden alone, Kime. I know I wasn't here for the past year almost, but I am now. Let me take some of the stress from you, okay? You don't deserve to deal with every little thing on your own."
A light flush passed over Kimeru's cheeks. Abe just seemed so... caring. "You... you don't have to."
"But I want to." Abe's tone held finality in it, signaling that there would be no argument. "I want to share this with you."
Something in that statement made Kimeru's cheeks go darker. He looked down in his lap only to notice that their hands were still firmly clasped together. He loosened his hold a bit, feeling nervous now. A comforting squeeze from Abe's fingers calmed him slightly.
"Hey! Minna!" Mori came out from the kitchen holding a large pitcher of something, grinning crazily.
Eyes went wide all around and Naoya exclaimed, "Dammit, Eiji! Not again." He was grinning though. Souta came from behind Moriyama, running a hand through his hair.
"Yes, yes, now if everyone would like to try some?"
Yanagi grinned, standing up. "Me first." He was followed by Endo. "Me too!" Nagayan, returning from his extended trip to the bathroom, saw the pitcher and just gave a look to Kimeru before sitting back down onto the couch.
Souta held out two glasses and Mori quickly poured some of the murky liquid into them. Yanagi glanced at his friend with a large grin. Endo made a face.
"What's in it?" He asked, eyeing the liquid skeptically.
"Oh, this and that." Moriyama waved it off, shoving the two glasses into the boys' hands. "Go ahead. It won't hurt you. We've tested it on ourselves." Come to think of it, his eyes did look a bit foggy.
Daiki stood from where he'd been sitting quietly. "Aa, if they're having, I might as well." Naoya murmured an agreement.
Almost cackling, Moriyama poured another glass for Daiki. "This one's better than the last."
"Not too much!" Daiki frowned, taking the glass away before it could get more than halfway filled. "You know how easy it is for me to get drunk..." He glanced down at the liquid. "And knowing you and mixing drinks, I think this is enough for me." As Moriyama was about to protest, Daiki cut in. "We’ve got a long way to get home, remember?" That shut him up. With a nod, the brunet sat back down, only taking a small sip of the alcohol.
Naoya took a glass from Souta, sniffing the drink a bit before shrugging and downing a good portion of it in one go. He ended up coughing seconds later with Souta clapping him over the back, laughing.
Moriyama winked at Yanagi and Endo. "Lesson to you, chibi futasu. Don't do what Naoyan just did."
Nodding in synch, Yanagi and Endo cautiously raised the alcohol to their lips, and were about to drink when the doorbell rang.
Nagayan sat up straight in his seat, body stiff. Moriyama grinned. "Tuti!" He handed Souta the pitcher before going over to the door, opening it wide. "Tuti!"
"Ohhh Tutiii!" Tuti entered the house, shaking snow from his wild hair. "Ah, it's a blizzard out there!" He looked up at the others, and instantly spotted Souta with the pitcher, and Yanagi and Endo looking apprehensive with glasses in their hands. He then looked to Moriyama with a grin. "You started without me? Shame on you all..." He slipped his boots off and hung up his coat, pocketing a small wrapped gift before entering the living room. When he saw Nagayan, he grinned, waving.
Nagayan just looked away, a pout on his face. Tuti blinked, confused.
"Oi, Tuti!" Moriyama shoved a full glass of whatever he'd made into Tuti's hand, grinning. "Drink up!"
With a smirk, Tuti downed half of the concoction, coughing once or twice afterwards. "Ah, good, Eiji! Better than last time. You've outdone yourself." He swallowed the remainder, handing the empty glass back to Moriyama. "I'll have some more later, but right now..." he gave a side-glance to the pouting Nagayan and Moriyama understood.
"Ah, matters of love come before the booze, ne? Understandable, Tuti... just make sure you get some more before it's all gone."
Tuti nodded, and headed over to where Nagayan was sitting on the couch.
"Hey! Sorry I'm so late." He rubbed the back of his head. "Manager kept me in for choreography work."
The older man just looked up at him, then crossed his legs, looking away again.
"Come on, Takashi..." Tuti sighed, crouching down to be on eye level. He nudged the other man's leg with a smile. "At least I made it, hm? Won't you accept my apology? I didn't mean to be late, and I would have called you, but my phone won't get any reception inside that building." He sounded sincerely sorry about that.
Nagayan looked over at him, still pouting. "You're still an hour late."
"I'm sorry? Hey, let me make it up to you?" Tuti looked hopeful. "I'll take you out for coffee sometime after a rehearsal or something. Please...?"
Nagayan sighed, uncrossing his legs. He couldn't hold back his smile anymore, now that Tuti was there. "You just can't make it easy for me to be mad at you, can you?"
Seeing that the shorter man wasn't actually that mad with him, Tuti grinned. "No can do. It's my job to be cute and hard to get mad at."
Nagayan laughed, then shifted over so that there was more room on the couch. "Sit."
Tuti plopped down on the couch beside him, running a hand through his hair. The snow that was in it had already melted, making his hair wet. He shook his head, sending little drops of water everywhere.
“Hey!” Nagayan wiped off some melted snow from his cheek.
“Ah, sorry, Takashi.” Tuti smiled apologetically, lifting a hand to wipe off another droplet from Nagayan’s nose.
Blushing slightly, the older man looked away. “So…”
“So…” Tuti grinned. “How has the party been without me?”
Nagayan rolled his eyes, crossing his arms. “Boring. Eiji and Souta have been in the kitchen most of the time, Yanagi-kun and Yuuyan were shoving their faces with food.”
“Well, that’s how they are.”
Nagayan smiled. “Kime and Abe are too busy flirting to bother. I think the only other person as bored as I am is Daiki-chan.”
“Daiki?” Tuti turned around and immediately spotted the brunet. “Daiki! Hey!” He waved enthusiastically. The other man raised a hand in greeting then turned back to face Naoya. “Harsh.” Tuti shook his head, then looked back at Nagayan. “Abe and Kime-chan flirting?”
Nagayan couldn’t help a grin and pointed over Tuti’s shoulder to the two men at the other end of the couch. From their view, they could easily see that the two were holding hands, sharing small glances with each other.
Tuti turned to look and his eyes went wide. “A-Abe…and Kime? No way!”
Nagayan let out a small laugh. “The proof is right there, Tuti.”
The younger man let out a sharp laugh. “Well whaddaya know. Kime deserves it, ne? They both do.” He looked back at Nagayan with a smile. It surprised Nagayan that Tuti was so accepting at just finding out that their two friends were quite obviously gay. Well, except Kimeru of course. Everyone already knew. But Abe?
The shorter of the two blushed, averting his gaze. “Uh…I got you something for Christmas…”
Tuti’s eyes lit up. “Really? Oh, what’d you get me?” He asked, sounding excited.
Nagayan just rolled his eyes. “I won’t tell you that, baka. You’ll have to wait and see.”
Huffing, Tuti crossed his arms, pulling off a bad imitation of Nagayan’s pout. “Well then I won’t tell you about what I got for you.”
The older man blinked. “But Tuti… you already got me something, remember?” He dug into his pants pocket and pulled out his keys. The small golden pear hung from the keychain.
Tuti grinned. “Yeah, but I wanted to get something else, since that was so small.”
Nagayan sighed. “Tuti, you know I don’t care about the size of the gift.”
“Yeah, but I wanted to get something better.” Nagayan caught some nervousness in the other man’s voice.
“Tuti?”
“Hey can I talk to you?” Tuti asked quickly, glancing around.
The other man arched a brow. “You kind of are right now…”
“No no, alone.” He stood, holding out his hand to Nagayan. “Please?”
Taking the hand hesitantly, Nagayan stood up. “Okay…?”
Tuti led him away from the small crowd, further into Kimeru’s home.
“Just watch out for the mistletoe.” Nagayan chuckled. “Kime hung them everywhere.
The other laughed, continuing on. Figuring the singer’s bedroom would be the quietest and secluded place to be, Tuti headed there. He shut the door behind them when they got there, not wanting anyone to hear.
“Tuti?” Nagayan asked, suspicious now.
“Ah, sit down?” The younger man asked, motioning to the bed. He sat down on the edge of the mattress, looking nervous. The look certainly didn’t suit him.
Nagayan frowned, sitting. He never liked it when Tuti was serious. The smile lines etched into his face didn’t fade, but made it seem as if Tuti wanted to smile but couldn’t. “What is it?”
“I… hm.” He paused, as if trying to think of what to say. “So, you liked my present?” He began, motioning to the keys Nagayan still held in his hand, keeping his eyes away.
“Uh… yes?”
“Why?” Tuti glanced up quickly. “I mean… what made it so nice?”
Nagayan shook his head. “I don’t know? It’s a golden pear.” He smiled. “It reminds me of when we were doing the musicals. When we were the Golden Pair.”
Tuti smiled as well. “Yeah. We were really close then, weren’t we?” He paused. “But the roles called for it. Eiji and Oishi were very close…” Nagayan was surprised again to see a blush across Tuti’s face.
“Um…Right. We were close… still are, aren’t we?”
Tuti looked away again. “Not as much. We’re not spending hours and hours on Golden Pair things together, because we’re in Bleach now.”
Nagayan nodded, understanding. “Aa… do you miss it?” he asked, his eyes straying around his best friend’s bedroom so he wouldn’t have to look at Tuti.
“Yes.” Tuti sighed. “I miss it a lot. It feels like I have nothing to do in the day, when I know I have tons.”
“I know what you mean.” Nagayan smiled. “I barely pay attention to what I do anymore. It all just flies by. I never have moments like those anymore… You know, when it took forever for a day to pass?”
Tuti laughed. “Yeah, because we had a rehearsal that night…” He hesitated in his next sentence. “Because we had… all those Golden Pair scenes to work on… ne?”
Nodding in agreement, the older man leaned back onto his hands. “I don’t know why there were so many. I mean, I know Oishi and Eiji spent almost every minute with each other… but did Ueshima-san have to order us to do the same?”
“It was to ‘work on being the Golden Pair rather than just acting it’.” Tuti quoted from their old manager.
“Ah, right. It all worked out in the end though, didn’t it?”
Tuti shrugged, his hand slipping into his pocket to fiddle with something. “I guess…”
“Tuti what’s going-“
“Takashi, I-“
They both started at the same time. Nagayan blushed. “You first.”
Tuti took a deep breath. “Takashi…” He started. “When we were the Golden Pair… after while, it wasn’t just me acting as Oishi… It was more like I was him… like Ueshima-san wanted me to be.” He stopped, thinking over what he would say next.
Nagayan stayed silent, staring at Tuti, or rather, the space right above his left ear. He didn’t want to catch the other’s gaze just in case the other saw the hope and anxiousness in his eyes. Little did he know, this was the same reason Tuti wasn’t looking at him.
“Oishi… he really cares for Eiji…” Tuti continued, biting his bottom lip. “More than he should really. Sure, he’s the mother of Seigaku, so he cares for them all… but something was different about Eiji.” Tuti’s hands were clenched in his lap as he sought words to explain. “He always looked forward to seeing Eiji in his day, and always worried when he wasn’t smiling, or joking around. Oishi always wanted to spend his time with Eiji… even when they had other things to do he wanted to skip his own responsibilities just to be with Eiji. Just to see him smile all the time…” Tuti trailed off, then shook his head lightly to get back on track. “Oishi cared for Eiji more than tennis. He only wanted Eiji to be happy, because then he would be happy too…”
“Tuti…” Nagayan interrupted, his voice cracking a bit from his lack of swallowing.
Tuti continued on, talking faster now. “What Oishi really wanted deep down was to know if Eiji felt the same as he did, but every time they were together, it never seemed right to bring it up. Every time, they’d get interrupted, or they were in public…He just wants to know if Eiji… if Eiji loves him back.” He faltered on the last sentence, and closed his eyes.
It was silent for a long time before Nagayan managed to form words from the emotional knot twisted in his throat.
“Tuti I….” He paused, then let out a breath. He looked at the younger man and smiled before wrapping two arms strongly around him. “Dammit Tuti! Every day all Eiji wanted was for Oishi to notice him and give him more attention each day. He wanted Oishi to love him back, too.”
Tuti turned his head, staring at Nagayan. “So… so Eiji felt the same… this whole time?”
With a chuckle, Nagayan rested his head on the other’s shoulder. “Of course. They’re the Golden Pair, remember?”
“Right. The Golden Pair…” Tuti finally smiled, bringing one hand around Nagayan to hug him back. “I was worried…”
“What… you? Worried? Has Oishi leaked into your brain or something?” Nagayan joked.
“Hush.” Tuti’s cheeks colored slightly.
A short silence passed between them, not as awkward and tense as before, until Nagayan spoke up.
“Ne… Tuti?”
“Hai?” The taller man looked down.
Nagayan pointed upwards to the ceiling with a small smile.
“Hm?” Tuti looked up, spotting a small green sprig against the whiteness of Kimeru’s ceiling. He stared for a long moment, before laughing. “Mistletoe? So Kime even put some up in his room, hm?”
“No, that was me…”Nagayan murmured.
"Oh, so you planned this then, hm?" Tuti poked him in the side, making the older man laugh. "You planned all along."
"Well, it was more a hope than a plan." Nagayan admitted, looking up at Tuti shyly.
Tuti grinned back. "Whatever it was, it worked." He paused. "Ano... aren't we supposed to kiss under mistletoe?"
Nagayan grinned back, leaning forward. "Yes. It's tradition."
Chuckling, Tuti tilted his head so that their forehead’s touched. "Then we'll have to keep up tradition, ne?"
"Mhmm..." They stared at each other for a long moment before Nagayan tipped his head up towards Tuti's, sealing their lips together.
It was a simple kiss. Just a touch of their lips for a few seconds. Despite how simple it was, both felt a pleasant shock from it.
Pulling away first, Tuti couldn't help grinning his widest. "I still haven't giving you your present yet."
Nagayan blinked, confused at first, but then it clicked. "Tuti, it's still Christmas Eve..."
"So?" He pulled a hand away from Nagayan to dig into his pocket. He pulled out a small, messily wrapped box.
"Tuti." Nagayan sighed, but was smiling. "You didn't have to..."
"Well, go on... open it." He handed the box to the older man, still grinning, though some of his nervousness had returned.
Nagayan looked up at him, then pulled off the wrapping paper and ribbon, uncovering a small brown cardboard box. He glanced up at the other in slight confusion and curiosity before opening the box. Nagayan gasped, nearly dropping the object. "Oh, Tuti...." He pulled out a small silver ring, holding it up so he could see it properly. "It's beautiful..."
"Look on the inside." Tuti motioned to the ring, a small blush on his cheeks.
Nagayan turned the ring, angling it so that the light would hit the inside. There was an inscription there. He squinted slightly and read it out loud.
"'Omae to Ore to wa...'..." And then there was a tiny heart engraved by it. Nagayan looked up at Tuti and grinned widely.
"Goruden Peaa..." He sang softly under his breath, finishing the line, then let out a laugh. He hugged Tuti tightly, squeezing his eyes shut as he felt the itch of tears starting.
"Meri Kurisumasu, Takashi."
*****
It was nearing midnight and everyone was still wide awake. In the front room, things were getting loud. Yanagi and Yuuyan had both had their share of Moriyama and Souta's alcohol and were currently singing a slightly off-key version of You Got Game, stopping every few seconds in the chorus to giggle and say 'You Got Gay' instead. Daiki was watching on, amused, as Moriyama was doing his own little dance two the boys' version of the song. Souta hadn't had as much of the concoction as his partner in crime had, so wasn't embarrassing himself in any way. He had, in fact rather seriously, excused himself to the bathroom, though he headed the other way down the hall. Naoyan was in a conversation with Abe about the American 'Santa Claus' deal, and Kimeru was trying to sit still.
"Kime, I'm sure they're fine." Abe broke from the conversation, which had somehow rotated to elves.
"But what if somehow, they screwed things up? What if they end up never speaking to each other again?" He bit down on a well manicured nail.
"They'll be fine." Abe sighed. " No need to worry."
"I'm going to check up on them." Kimeru frowned, standing.
"Kime." He apologized to Naoya, standing up and following after the singer, who had already strode out of the main room. "Kime, they'll be fine."
"How are you so sure?" He frowned, turning to face Abe, crossing his arms over his chest.
"Because. Tuti would find a way to get things between them right, and Nagayan won't give up until he has Tuti. Either way, things will end up okay." The taller man stepped forward, taking Kimeru's hands and uncrossing them. "Just believe they can, alright?"
Kimeru pouted, leaning forward to rest his head on the other's chest. He sighed. "Fine. But now I don't want to go back in there. It's giving me a headache." This was a lie. He didn't mind Yanagi-kun and Yuuyan making fun of his song, or even Eiji dancing. He would just rather be alone with Abe at this time.
"Alright. Let's go into the kitchen then. It's quieter." Abe motioned in the direction and began to lead Kimeru. They entered the kitchen, and Kimeru pulled away to lean against the stove. Abe followed, leaning next to him.
"Everyone's having fun, hm?"
Kimeru nodded. "Yes. Which is good. I would hate to have everyone bored at one of my parties."
Abe chuckled. "Kime-Hime can't have any of that, can he?"
"Of course not." Kimeru sniffed, looking away to hide a smile. "It's not acceptable.
Shaking his head lightly, Abe shifted to take one of Kimeru's hands in his.
The singer blushed at the contact, but didn't protest.
"It's almost midnight." Abe pointed out. "Almost time for me to give you my gift.
Kimeru was curious, but knew he could wait ten minutes. "Maybe you should go get it from where ever you hid it?"
Abe chuckled and pulled away. "Very well. I'll go get it. Wait here. He turned and headed off down the hall. On his way he passed Souta. Glancing back to see if Kime was watching him, he tugged the other man down the hall.
"Souta-Kun? Could you please do me a favor...?"
***
Returning back from wherever he'd gone, Abe walked back into the kitchen, the bundle hidden behind his back. He was wearing his jacket. "Kime? Could we go outside for this?"
Blinking curiously, Kimeru nodded, heading to grab his jacket. As he passed Abe, he tried to get a peek of what the other was hiding.
"Ah. Keep it a surprise, Kime." Abe chuckled.
“Fine.” Kimeru pouted, but slipped on his chunky boots. “I don’t know why we have to go outside though.”
“It’s part of the surprise.” Abe smirked. “Come on.” He opened the front door, motioning for the singer to go first. Kimeru stepped past him and out into the snow.
Kimeru pulled his jacket tighter around him as a sudden gust of frigid air sent snow at him. Seconds later, he heard the door close and Abe’s arm came around him from behind.
“Are you cold?”
Kimeru shook his head. “Not anymore.” He smiled, leaning back into the half-embrace.
They stayed silent for a bit, just listening to the muffled sounds on the party going on inside.
Abe shifted, then pulled out the bundle he still hid behind his back. He held it in front of Kimeru. “Here’s part one of the gift.” He smiled.
Kimeru blinked, then lifted off the material the covered the gift. His eyes went wide as the cover fell, revealing a bouquet of roses. He took them from Abe’s hands, staring at the flowers.
“Abe…” He began, a bit speechless, but the taller man hushed him.
“Part two...look up.”
The singer glanced up quickly. “What…?” He caught a glimpse of a small green sprig stuck to the top of the doorframe. “Mistletoe…?” Kimeru was confused. “But…I didn’t put any there.” Before he could muse any more, he was silenced by a quick kiss from Abe.
“I know. When I was getting the roses, I told Souta to put some up…” He smiled, looking proud of himself.
Kimeru just stared at him, unable to think of anything to say. “Abe…”
The other man continued to smile. “Do you want the last part?”
Kimeru wordlessly nodded, unsure of what could happen next.
Abe leaned forward and said in a voice only Kimeru could here. “Me.” He pressed a kiss to the singer’s cheek. “If you will have me.” He added as an afterthought.
“Oh…” Kime let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding and dropped the bouquet of roses. He threw both arms around the taller man, hugging him tightly. “Of course I’ll have you.” He whispered. Despite wearing his large boots, he still had to step on his toes a bit to get to a level height with Abe. He buried his face in the collar of the other man’s jacket, muffling a small sniff.
“Kime…?” Abe turned his head, looking worried.
“Ah, it’s nothing.” Kimeru raised his head smiling. He hastily wiped away a tear that had threatened to fall. “Just happy. Really happy.”
“I’m glad.” Abe smiled back warmly. He raised a hand to wipe away the moisture gathering around the singer’s eyes again. “Should we go inside?”
Kimeru shook his head slowly. “No. I want to stay out here a bit longer.” He shifted close to Abe.
“Alright.” The taller man’s arms went around him once again, warming his heart as well as his body. “Later then.”
~
Everyone left late into Christmas morning, with Daiki taking the drunk and half-asleep Eiji to his flat, and Naoyan bringing Souta home. Yanagi and Yuuyan took the train back, and Tuti and Nagayan decided on heading back to Tuti’s, since both had the day off.
Kimeru and Abe were the only ones that remained, and they had both fallen asleep on the couch after everyone left.
Curled up in the taller man’s arms, Kimeru slept on, knowing somewhere deep in his mind that he would have to clean up the messes when he woke up, but at least now, this year, he had someone to help him. The singer snuggled deeper into the embrace, lulled further into sleep by Abe’s even breathing.
He would have to tell Takashi about everything the next chance he got. Maybe even pester his best friend to tell him where he got the beautiful silver ring that now rested on the other’s pinky finger. It hadn’t been there when he arrived…
Making a small noise in his sleep, Kimeru shifted closer to the warmth around him. Abe gave a light chuckle, pressing a soft kiss to the tawny hair.
“Meri Kurisumasu, Kime.”
~
~
~
OWARI!
Glossary
Gomen -- Sorry
Hai --Yes
KiraKira-chan -- Nickname for Kime; means 'sparklesparkle-chan' or something to that extent…
Himitsu -- Secret
Onegai -- Please
Mou -- Sound of frustration
Hime-sama -- another Kime nickname; means princess
Jinguru beru -- Engrish for 'Jingle Bells'
Meri Kurisumasu -- Engrish for 'merry christmas'
Ne -- can mean 'hey' or 'right?'
Ano... -- Um...
Konban wa -- Good evening
Urusai -- basically 'shut up'
Minna -- everyone
Chibi futatsu -- little ones
Baka -- idiot
Omae to ore to wa... -- You and I are...<3 XD
Goruden peaa -- engrish for 'Golden Pair' these last two lines in reference to the golden pair song in the tenimyus.
Owari -- The end, or Finished
A/N: GAH! omg my third fic...also the longest fic I've ever written ;-; I hope it hasn't bored anyone with its length! =D Thankyou to my LOVELY Beta, kooriyoukai! I very muchly less-than-three her...I hope this gets a good spot in the contest! Now it's in Liz's hands... *frets* x-posted to tenimyu_slash of course
Author: Rune
Warnings/Ratings: PG-13 for boys kissing ^^
Pairing: Tuti/Nagayan, Abe/Kimeru, hints about Souta/Naoya; Mori/Daiki
Notes: 8,500+ words. A party at Kime's. Christmas is nothing without the mistletoe! Ah, a small mention of YanaKou's accident...I couldn't help it. ^^; angst is my calling. (I can put it here for the txn....right? XD)
Author notes at the end.
"Christmas at Kime's"
Outside tinted glass windows, snow spiraled slowly to the ground and joined the puddles of slush kicked up from passers-by.
Nagayan stared out the window, sighing softly. He had been sitting in the small coffee shop for close to half an hour and still Tuti hadn’t shown up.
A soft touch on his shoulder startled him from his thoughts. Nagayan looked up at the waitress who had disturbed him.
“Would you like something sir? You’ve been sitting here a while…”
Nagayan shook his head lightly, giving a small smile. “No thank you. I’m waiting for someone… Maybe later.” He turned back to the window only to gasp in surprise.
Tuti stared back at him from the window with a wide grin, waving enthusiastically. Once Nagayan got over the initial shock, he began to smile back. The man outside moved to enter the coffee shop, unwinding his scarf and slipping off his jacket. He hung both over the back of the chair opposite to Nagayan’s before sitting down.
"Gomen, Takashi. I didn’t mean to be so late. I was held back-"
“I understand.” Nagayan cut in, still smiling, before turning to the waitress who was still standing there patiently. “Ah, two hot chocolates please…”
When the waitress went off, Nagayan turned to his friend.
"I know I said three o’clock, but they didn’t let me leave until just a few-" Tuti was cut off by the other man’s laugh.
“I thought I said it was okay.” At the warm look in the other’s eyes, Tuti relented.
“Aa…”
The waitress interrupted them a moment later with two steaming mugs of hot chocolate. Nagayan grinned, thanking her, and picked up his mug, blowing across the dark liquid. He glanced outside, and Tuti thought he saw a flicker of something in the other man’s soft brown eyes.
“Takashi?”
Nagayan turned. “Hai?”
“Is something wrong?” Tuti’s forehead creased slightly as it always did when he got worried.
Nagayan shook his head. “Just thinking.”
Tuti studied him for a second before suddenly exclaiming. “Oh! That’s right!” He shoved a hand into his pocket. “I almost forgot.” He pulled out a small key chain. A small gold plated pear hung from the chain. He grinned. “I didn’t have time to wrap it or anything, because I bought it on my way over…”
Nagayan looked at the object, and then started to laugh. “A golden pear?”
Tuti nodded, still grinning. “I know. I saw it and it reminded me of… you know, when we were in Tenimyu… I know I missed your birthday…” He smiled guiltily. "So I got this. I know it’s small, but-"
“It’s perfect.” Nagayan cut in, taking the offered gift with a little laugh. “I know you were at a rehearsal, and we’ve both been busy since…”
He looked down at the delicate charm. It gave him a weird feeling in his stomach just thinking that Tuti had gone out of his way just to get a small key chain - a golden pear nonetheless. It meant a lot to him that Tuti seemed to cherish the time they’d spent as the Golden Pair.
“Thank you, Tuti…” He began, when his phone rang. He pulled it out of his pocket, glancing at the display.
“Oh… It’s Kime.” He looked up at Tuti, who shrugged, then he flipped open the phone.
“Hai?”
“Ah, Takashi. How are things?”
“Good…” He smiled at Tuti, and then looked out the window. “And how is the great Kirakira-chan?”
“Oh, it’s okay.” He heard the younger man sigh, and knew something was up.
“Kime?"
“Is Tuti there with you?”
Nagayan cast a puzzled glance at Tuti. “Yes, why?”
“I’m holding a Christmas party on Christmas Eve at my place. The whole first cast from the Tenimyu are invited.”
“Really?” Nagayan grinned. “That’s great! We’ll be there.” After a quick goodbye, he turned to Tuti. “Kime’s having a party on Christmas Eve, and we’re invited. The other cast members also."
The taller man grinned. “I’ll try and be there on time. I have another rehearsal in the afternoon…”
Nagayan nodded. “Okay. I might try and be there early, since I’m sure Kime would like some help setting up.” He took a sip of his cooling hot chocolate, watching Tuti do the same.
They spent a few minutes in companionable silence. Nagayan smiled into his mug as he felt Tuti’s knee brush his under the table.
After they had graduated from the musicals, he and Tuti had tried their best to keep in touch. Though Tuti had a busy schedule, they had managed to find time to spend together in their Bleach musical rehearsals and sporadic hours during the week.
Nagayan had realized back then, when they started up Bleach, that something between them had changed. They no longer spent time trying to think of things to say around each other, since their actions spoke without words. If Tuti left for lunch break during one of their rehearsals and Nagayan was hungry, the older man wouldn’t have to say anything, Tuti always returned with a plate heaped with enough food to fill them both up. Without noticing it, they’d become a lot more like the fictional Golden Pair than they’d thought.
When Nagayan looked up at the other, Tuti was smiling. A blush came up unwillingly to his face. “What?” He mumbled, though couldn’t help smile as well. His heart nearly skipped a beat when Tuti leaned over the table to brush a stray wisp of hair from his face. Nagayan felt his blush deepen at their proximity. “T-Tuti?”
As if shocked, the younger man recoiled. “Ah, gomen, Takashi! It was just in the way…” He stood up abruptly, picking up his jacket.
“Tuti?” Nagayan frowned, standing up as well.
“I just remembered, I have to meet with Eiji!” Tuti threw his jacket on and grabbed his scarf before backing out of the café. “Sorry!”
Before Nagayan had a chance to protest, he had disappeared into the swirling mass of snow outside. Nagayan stared into his half empty mug of cold cocoa after Tuti left, a deep frown on his face. It was fifteen minutes later when he rose and collected his things and paid the small bill before hurrying out into the cold, already late for his next magazine interview.
~*~
The snow was beginning to fall in thicker clumps as the evening wore on. Kimeru absolutely loved the snow, and he’d managed to wheedle his way into leaving his recording session early. He walked into the deserted park across the street, bundled up tightly in a designer coat, with a thick, woolen scarf around his neck. He kept his hands shoved deep into his pockets, since he’d forgotten his gloves in a rush to leave the house that morning. He truthfully didn’t mind the cold that much.
Spinning around once in the snow, he let out a small laugh. Peaceful, secluded times like these were a rarity, and he intended to take full advantage of it. It wasn’t often that he had an hour or so to himself without getting a phone call from his manager, or from some other important being. He could only hope he got at least six hours of sleep a night as it was.
He continued on through the park, dragging his feet. Looking ahead, he saw a figure blurred out by the falling snow. He slowed his pace. Who else would be walking around in the evening through the snow? Not a lot of people did. Kimeru narrowed his eyes, trying to make out the figure. As they approached each other, the brunet caught glimpse of a tan jacket and wavy brown hair. His curiosity peaked when the figure spoke.
“Kimeru…?”
It had been almost a year since his friend had left for America, but he recognized the voice as if they had spoken only yesterday.
“…Abe?”
The figure, proven indeed to be Abe, gave a loud laugh and jogged the last few paces over. “It is you!” He smiled.
Kimeru laughed as well, throwing his arms around his old friend. “You’re back! How long ago…?”
Abe chuckled. “I got back today. I was heading to the studio… don’t you get off in an hour?” He asked suspiciously.
“I left early.” The shorter man smiled. He couldn’t help a small blush at the thought that Abe had been coming to the studio to see him.
“Ah…Aren’t you cold…?” Abe glanced down, seeing that the bottom of Kimeru’s pants were wet with clinging snow, and could feel the cold press of the other’s hands against the back of his neck.
Kimeru just shrugged. “I don’t mind it.”
“Your hands are freezing.” Abe smiled, slipping off his gloves and putting them in his pocket. He reached up and took Kimeru’s hands in his own, holding them together. “Don’t you have a pair of gloves?”
“I forgot them…” He admitted guiltily, sighing at the warmth of Abe’s hands.
“Well, then take mine.” He removed one hand, getting his gloves from his pocket. He slipped them over Kimeru’s hands slowly, smiling back at the other.
"W-what about you?" Kimeru could feel the warmth left over from Abe's hands still in the gloves.
"Eh, I'll be alright." Abe continued to smile. "My hands are always warm."
Kimeru nodded, then sighed. "It's almost Christmas. Are you going to be staying...?"
Abe looked up into the snow that continued to fall. "I will. I don't think I'll be going anywhere for a while."
"Good." Kimeru grinned. "Then you'll come to my party? It's on Christmas Eve. All of the first cast have been invited..."
"Of course." He chuckled.
Clapping his gloved hands together, Kimeru nodded. "Right. Now I have to get some shopping done before I head home for dinner. Care to join me?"
The taller man grinned. "Lead the way, Kime."
Kimeru smiled back. "You're going to have to tell me everything that's happened since we last saw each other..."
Abe gave the other a warm look. "And you're going to have to tell me about everything I've missed."
The two began to walk in the direction Kimeru had been originally traveling, talking about Abe's trip along the way. Partway through, Abe paused, staring up at the sky.
"Abe...?" Kimeru stopped, looking back at him.
"The snow's really pretty, ne? I forgot how nice it was in Japan. They didn't have snow where I was..."
Kimeru blinked then glanced up as well. "I guess so, yes." He heard his friend approach him and looked back at him.
"I like how the snow is in your hair." He smiled, reaching out a hand to gently touch the crystallized fragments that had stuck in Kimeru's light hair. "It makes you look even more beautiful."
The shorter man could feel his face heating up at the comment. "Abe..."
"I mean it." He twined his finger around a short lock of the other's hair, still smiling.
Kimeru couldn't help but notice how close the other was now. It made his blush deepen, and he glanced away. "The stores will be closing soon." He murmured.
As if a spell had been broken, Abe stepped back. "Right, well, let's continue." He was still smiling, as if nothing out of the ordinary had happened.
When they'd reached the end of the park the short moment between them had been pushed out of Kimeru's mind as conversation began to start up again.
Abe turned to him. "So who are you shopping for?"
Kimeru began to count off on his fingers. "I have... Takashi, Tuti, Eiji, and Yanagi."
Abe chuckled. "Oh? You've already gotten my gift?"
"Who says you're getting one?" Kimeru smirked, shoving him lightly with his shoulder. "I didn't even know you'd be around for Christmas until just now."
"Yeah, but somehow I think you've planned ahead." Abe smiled down at him. "I've already gotten yours after all..." he trailed off, already expecting the curious glint in the other man's eyes.
"Oh? You got me something? What could it be...?" Deep inside, though, Kimeru was nearly cartwheeling with glee. Abe had thought of him!
The taller man just chuckled. "Hi-mi-tsu!"
With a mock gasp, Kimeru pouted. "Well that's no fair. I'm just going to have to coax it out of you."
"Try as hard as you might, I won't spill this secret." Abe winked, then stepped away, heading down the sidewalk.
"Hey!" Kimeru jogged after him, grabbing onto his arm. "No fair, Abe."
"It's very fair, Kime. You'll have to wait until Christmas to get yours."
"B-but!" He pouted as he thought. "What can I do to persuade you?"
"Nothing~" Abe sang, then smiled down at the shorter man. "Just be patient for once, ne, Kimeru? I promise you the gift won't go anywhere."
The brunet should have caught the hint, but he was too busy trying to think of a way to get the secret out of his friend.
"Onegai?"
Abe sighed. "You're not going to give up are you?"
Kimeru shook his head, smiling innocently. "Just give me a hint, and I'll stop."
Abe thought for a moment, then shook his head. "No. No hints."
Kimeru blinked, not expecting that. "No hint?" He sighed.
"I said none." The taller man smiled. "Come on. Let's get your shopping done."
"Mou..." Kimeru rolled his eyes. "Fine." It never came to mind that he was still clinging to Abe's arm. Maybe it was because Abe was warm, or that he didn't want to slip on a patch of ice, but whatever the excuse was, he paid no mind.
~*~
It was Christmas Eve. The decorations were up, soft Christmas music was playing from the radio, and the Christmas tree had been bought, placed neatly in a corner of the main room. Kimeru was humming along with the radio, occupying himself with hanging the last few ornaments on the tree when he was interrupted.
"Hime-sama!" The doorbell rang not once, but three times in rapid succession. "Hime-samaaa!"
With a small laugh, Kimeru moved to open the door, only to be nearly knocked over by Nagayan as he hugged his friend. "Takashi," he laughed. “The party doesn't start for another hour."
"I know." Nagayan said simply, stepping away from Kimeru as he began to undo his bootlaces. "But I figured I'd come and help set up."
Kimeru rolled his eyes in good humor. "Fine. Then you can help in the kitchen. I still have to cook everything."
"Okay!" Nagayan grinned, heading off to the kitchen. "Wow, Kime... you have so much food here!" He peeked out to look at his friend. "Feeding the army, Hime-sama?"
Kimeru just snorted. "Eiji, Yanagi, and Yuuyan are coming remember?"
As if that was explanation enough, Nagayan retreated back into the kitchen, starting to sing along with the English Christmas song playing on the radio. "Jinguru beru...jinguru beru..."
Kime snickered. "You're horrible, Takashi."
Nagayan just stuck his tongue out at his best friend. "I'd like to see you do better."
Kimeru gave him his best superior look, then rolled his eyes, heading back to the tree. "Just hurry up with the food. It needs to be done in an hour."
Nagayan stuck out his tongue again. "Yes Hime-sama." He resumed his singing.
An hour later they had an assortment of easily prepared dishes ready to go, with enough leftovers to last through the night, and Kimeru was pleased. He and Nagayan started to set them out on the large table that took up half the main room when the doorbell rang.
"I'll get it!" Nagayan grinned, running to the door. When he opened it, he saw Yanagi and Endo, and they were bearing gifts.
"Meri Kurisumasu!" They yelled in unison, grinning. Nagayan flashed a victory sign with his fingers, moving aside to let them in.
"Ne, you're the first ones here! Kime! Yanagi-kun and Yuuyan are here!"
Kimeru’s voice reached them inside the small entryway. "In here!" The two boys headed into the other room as Nagayan closed the door.
When they were all saying their ‘hello’s, Nagayan heard a knock. He excused himself to get it. When he opened the door, he saw Souta.
“Hey!” He grinned.
“Will you move out of my way or will I have to shove you?” An annoyed voice came from behind the tall man.
Nagayan blinked. “Eh? Who else is here?”
Souta stepped into Kimeru’s house, looking a little put upon, and Naoya came behind him, shoving lightly. “Go, go!” He carried a few wrapped gifts under an arm.
Nagayan laughed. “Glad you could both make it! Everyone’s in the living room. You can put the gifts under the tree or something.” He paused as he noticed Souta seemed distracted. “Souta…?”
“Hm? Oh, right… tree.” He grinned, tearing his eyes away from the ceiling. He took Naoya’s arm. “Come along now…”
Naoya snickered, pulling his arm away. “Don’t be an idiot.” His cheeks were flushed, and he glanced at Nagayan in case he saw.
Nagayan was busy staring out the still open door. Abe was coming up the stairs at the end of the hall, a bundle of something covered in his arms.
“Konban wa, Takashi,” the taller brunet greeted. Nagayan looked at the bundle in his arms.
“What did you bring?” He asked, curious.
“Ah, nothing. Just part of a gift.” Abe waved it off, removing his shoes. “Oh. I happened to see Ishibashi and Takigawa along the way. Both said they couldn’t make it.”
“I’ll tell Kime then.” Nagayan smiled, closing the door. From the main room came a loud chorus of laughter. Both men headed away from the door to the other room, Abe staying behind a bit.
Kimeru looked over from where he was standing at the food table and caught Abe’s gaze. He grinned widely and walked over. “Hey…”
Nagayan glanced between the two and smirked, shaking his head before joining Yanagi and Endo on the couch.
Abe smiled back and couldn’t help noticing how shy Kimeru sounded. “I brought your gift…”
The shorter man’s eyes were immediately drawn to whatever was wrapped in Abe’s arms. He clapped his hands together. “Can I see it now?”
Abe chuckled. “No, not until later. You’re not supposed to open gifts on Christmas Eve.”
“Mou…” Kimeru sighed. “Fine, but as soon as that clock strikes midnight, I want it.”
The taller man just smiled. “I’m going to put it away. Don’t go looking for it. Don’t say you won’t either because I know you will.” He said quickly as Kimeru was about to protest. He took a step back, holding up a finger to mime he would be gone for just a minute, then turned around and headed off deeper into the singer’s home.
With a sigh, Kimeru returned to the living room. Nagayan and Yanagi were deep in conversation, whispering behind their hands to each other. Every now and then, Yanagi would giggle, then glance around the room to see if anyone heard him.
After a short minute, Abe returned to the living room, arms empty. Kimeru felt an itch of curiosity to go find whatever it was the taller man had hidden, but held it back. He smiled as Abe approached. They got within a few feet of each other when Souta exclaimed.
“Kime-chan! Where’d you put the alcohol, ne?” He grinned, stepping close and nudging the singer. “I know you have because your parties always do. In the kitchen like before?”
Kimeru stared at Souta, then rolled his eyes. “No point in hiding it here, you’d find it anyways.” He sighed, motioning vaguely towards the kitchen.
With a little chuckle under his breath, Abe watched Souta stalk off towards the kitchen. “The food looks nice.” He glanced at the table where Endo was currently piling up a plate of curry and rice.
“Ah, thank you.” Kimeru smiled, running a hand through his hair. “Takashi helped…”
They stood in a sort of awkward silence, until the doorbell started to ring again.
“I’ll get it!” Naoya walked over to the door, opening it.
“Hey, you’re not Kime!”
“Eiji! Hey!” There were a few laughs, and Moriyama came through the door, closely followed by a smiling Daiki. Even though the brunette wasn’t from the first cast, Kimeru was happy to allow it. It was only one exception after all.
He watched as Moriyama took Daiki’s jacket with a grin, hooking both on the pegs Kimeru had on the wall. They removed their boots and came into the main room.
Nagayan looked up from his conversation with Yanagi. “Hi, Eiji-kun!” He smiled. Yanagi greeting him as well, and Endo gave a muffled ‘Hi’ around a mouthful of potatoes. Nagayan scanned the small crowd that had built up with a small frown, then sighed, turning back to whatever Yanagi had started to say, pretending to listen to the boy as his thoughts began to wander.
Kimeru watched his friend for a moment, before noticing that Tuti hadn’t arrived yet. His voiced this to Abe.
“Tuti? Well, you know he always was late…”
Moriyama was making a beeline for the food when he heard this. “Oh, Tuti? He was kept back for a longer rehearsal. Needed to work on some things for this dance number of his. He might be finished at around…” He paused to check his watch. “Nine tonight, if lucky.”
“Nine?” Kimeru frowned slightly, looking up at the clock that hung on the wall. It was still eight o’clock. One hour without Tuti. They’d make it. But Kimeru didn’t think Nagayan would, without at least one pout that is.
“Eiji!” Souta’s voice called from the kitchen. “Join me! I found Kime’s booze!”
Kimeru gave a panicked look to Moriyama, who just grinned. The taller man headed off towards the kitchen, food forgotten. Kimeru gave a sigh.
“That’s it. We’re in for it now. They’re going to mix some strange concoction like last year and get everyone plastered, and then I’ll be the one cleaning up.”
Abe chuckled, patting Kimeru’s shoulder. “Ah, daijoubu. If things get messy, I’ll stick around to help clean.”
Kimeru glanced down at the hand covering his shoulder with a blush, then shrugged lightly. “Okay…”
An hour later, Moriyama and Souta were still in the kitchen mixing who knows what, Daiki was contemplating going after Mori, Yanagi and Endo were still eating, Abe was sitting, just listening to the music, and Kimeru was trying to talk to his best friend.
“Takashi.” He sighed. “Come on. Stop being so pouty. I’m sure he’ll show up soon.” He glanced up at the clock. “It’s almost nine.”
“You sure Eiji said nine?” Nagayan mumbled, glancing over at Kimeru.
“Positive.” He smiled, ruffling the other man’s hair. “Don’t worry, ne? He’ll show up. It’s a party, he’s been invited, and you’re here. What more incentive could he have?”
Nagayan blushed slightly. “Urusai, Kime…”
“You know it!” Kimeru laughed, shoving his best friend. “Don’t deny anything, Takashi. I’ve seen the way he looks at you.”
Looking up in what he hoped didn’t look like curiosity, Nagayan asked. “You have…?”
Kimeru smirked. “Hai. His eyes go all moony and wide. ‘Oh Takashi, how I want to say how much I love you, but-‘”
“Urusai!!” Nagayan laughed, his face red as he shoved Kimeru back, knocking him into Abe. “I’m going to the bathroom.” He shook his head, getting up and heading down the hall.
Kimeru had fallen back into Abe’s chest when his friend had pushed him. Looking up, he could feel the taller man tense. Instead of shoving him away, like Kimeru had thought, Abe smiled.
“You shouldn’t tease him like that, you know.”
Kimeru paused, then shrugged. “It’s fun, plus I know he doesn’t mind it much. He’s just worried that Tuti won’t show up.” Kimeru sat up slowly, looking away.
"He has enough reason to. With the weather as it is, I wonder how Tuti's getting here. The conditions are pretty bad." Abe's smile faded a bit.
"Oh don't you start too." Kimeru sighed. "We've had enough of our share of winter accidents... we don't need any more thoughts on them." He glanced over at Yanagi, who was currently laughing over something Endo had said. His chest suddenly felt constricted at the thought of something like that happening again to one of his close friends. He wouldn't be able to go through something like that all over. Kimeru felt a hand touch his thigh and he turned his head back to Abe.
"I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said anything. I'm sure Tuti will make it here fine. He'll probably just take the train."
Kimeru gave a weak smile, then with slight hesitance, dropped his hand over Abe's. "You're right. No sense worrying over nothing." He looked shyly up at his friend. "Ne?"
Abe nodded, giving the singer's hand a gentle squeeze. "You know, when you worry, you get this little wrinkle right... there" He grinned, poking Kimeru's forehead.
Kimeru's eyes widened slightly. "A wrinkle...?"
Abe nodded. "Its from worrying too much." He brushed his thumb over the faded mark. It had most likely appeared during the whole episode with Yanagi's accident. "You shouldn't, you know."
Kimeru just gave a strained smile. "If I don't, who will?"
Abe's returned smile was warm and comforting. "You don't have to take all of this on as your burden alone, Kime. I know I wasn't here for the past year almost, but I am now. Let me take some of the stress from you, okay? You don't deserve to deal with every little thing on your own."
A light flush passed over Kimeru's cheeks. Abe just seemed so... caring. "You... you don't have to."
"But I want to." Abe's tone held finality in it, signaling that there would be no argument. "I want to share this with you."
Something in that statement made Kimeru's cheeks go darker. He looked down in his lap only to notice that their hands were still firmly clasped together. He loosened his hold a bit, feeling nervous now. A comforting squeeze from Abe's fingers calmed him slightly.
"Hey! Minna!" Mori came out from the kitchen holding a large pitcher of something, grinning crazily.
Eyes went wide all around and Naoya exclaimed, "Dammit, Eiji! Not again." He was grinning though. Souta came from behind Moriyama, running a hand through his hair.
"Yes, yes, now if everyone would like to try some?"
Yanagi grinned, standing up. "Me first." He was followed by Endo. "Me too!" Nagayan, returning from his extended trip to the bathroom, saw the pitcher and just gave a look to Kimeru before sitting back down onto the couch.
Souta held out two glasses and Mori quickly poured some of the murky liquid into them. Yanagi glanced at his friend with a large grin. Endo made a face.
"What's in it?" He asked, eyeing the liquid skeptically.
"Oh, this and that." Moriyama waved it off, shoving the two glasses into the boys' hands. "Go ahead. It won't hurt you. We've tested it on ourselves." Come to think of it, his eyes did look a bit foggy.
Daiki stood from where he'd been sitting quietly. "Aa, if they're having, I might as well." Naoya murmured an agreement.
Almost cackling, Moriyama poured another glass for Daiki. "This one's better than the last."
"Not too much!" Daiki frowned, taking the glass away before it could get more than halfway filled. "You know how easy it is for me to get drunk..." He glanced down at the liquid. "And knowing you and mixing drinks, I think this is enough for me." As Moriyama was about to protest, Daiki cut in. "We’ve got a long way to get home, remember?" That shut him up. With a nod, the brunet sat back down, only taking a small sip of the alcohol.
Naoya took a glass from Souta, sniffing the drink a bit before shrugging and downing a good portion of it in one go. He ended up coughing seconds later with Souta clapping him over the back, laughing.
Moriyama winked at Yanagi and Endo. "Lesson to you, chibi futasu. Don't do what Naoyan just did."
Nodding in synch, Yanagi and Endo cautiously raised the alcohol to their lips, and were about to drink when the doorbell rang.
Nagayan sat up straight in his seat, body stiff. Moriyama grinned. "Tuti!" He handed Souta the pitcher before going over to the door, opening it wide. "Tuti!"
"Ohhh Tutiii!" Tuti entered the house, shaking snow from his wild hair. "Ah, it's a blizzard out there!" He looked up at the others, and instantly spotted Souta with the pitcher, and Yanagi and Endo looking apprehensive with glasses in their hands. He then looked to Moriyama with a grin. "You started without me? Shame on you all..." He slipped his boots off and hung up his coat, pocketing a small wrapped gift before entering the living room. When he saw Nagayan, he grinned, waving.
Nagayan just looked away, a pout on his face. Tuti blinked, confused.
"Oi, Tuti!" Moriyama shoved a full glass of whatever he'd made into Tuti's hand, grinning. "Drink up!"
With a smirk, Tuti downed half of the concoction, coughing once or twice afterwards. "Ah, good, Eiji! Better than last time. You've outdone yourself." He swallowed the remainder, handing the empty glass back to Moriyama. "I'll have some more later, but right now..." he gave a side-glance to the pouting Nagayan and Moriyama understood.
"Ah, matters of love come before the booze, ne? Understandable, Tuti... just make sure you get some more before it's all gone."
Tuti nodded, and headed over to where Nagayan was sitting on the couch.
"Hey! Sorry I'm so late." He rubbed the back of his head. "Manager kept me in for choreography work."
The older man just looked up at him, then crossed his legs, looking away again.
"Come on, Takashi..." Tuti sighed, crouching down to be on eye level. He nudged the other man's leg with a smile. "At least I made it, hm? Won't you accept my apology? I didn't mean to be late, and I would have called you, but my phone won't get any reception inside that building." He sounded sincerely sorry about that.
Nagayan looked over at him, still pouting. "You're still an hour late."
"I'm sorry? Hey, let me make it up to you?" Tuti looked hopeful. "I'll take you out for coffee sometime after a rehearsal or something. Please...?"
Nagayan sighed, uncrossing his legs. He couldn't hold back his smile anymore, now that Tuti was there. "You just can't make it easy for me to be mad at you, can you?"
Seeing that the shorter man wasn't actually that mad with him, Tuti grinned. "No can do. It's my job to be cute and hard to get mad at."
Nagayan laughed, then shifted over so that there was more room on the couch. "Sit."
Tuti plopped down on the couch beside him, running a hand through his hair. The snow that was in it had already melted, making his hair wet. He shook his head, sending little drops of water everywhere.
“Hey!” Nagayan wiped off some melted snow from his cheek.
“Ah, sorry, Takashi.” Tuti smiled apologetically, lifting a hand to wipe off another droplet from Nagayan’s nose.
Blushing slightly, the older man looked away. “So…”
“So…” Tuti grinned. “How has the party been without me?”
Nagayan rolled his eyes, crossing his arms. “Boring. Eiji and Souta have been in the kitchen most of the time, Yanagi-kun and Yuuyan were shoving their faces with food.”
“Well, that’s how they are.”
Nagayan smiled. “Kime and Abe are too busy flirting to bother. I think the only other person as bored as I am is Daiki-chan.”
“Daiki?” Tuti turned around and immediately spotted the brunet. “Daiki! Hey!” He waved enthusiastically. The other man raised a hand in greeting then turned back to face Naoya. “Harsh.” Tuti shook his head, then looked back at Nagayan. “Abe and Kime-chan flirting?”
Nagayan couldn’t help a grin and pointed over Tuti’s shoulder to the two men at the other end of the couch. From their view, they could easily see that the two were holding hands, sharing small glances with each other.
Tuti turned to look and his eyes went wide. “A-Abe…and Kime? No way!”
Nagayan let out a small laugh. “The proof is right there, Tuti.”
The younger man let out a sharp laugh. “Well whaddaya know. Kime deserves it, ne? They both do.” He looked back at Nagayan with a smile. It surprised Nagayan that Tuti was so accepting at just finding out that their two friends were quite obviously gay. Well, except Kimeru of course. Everyone already knew. But Abe?
The shorter of the two blushed, averting his gaze. “Uh…I got you something for Christmas…”
Tuti’s eyes lit up. “Really? Oh, what’d you get me?” He asked, sounding excited.
Nagayan just rolled his eyes. “I won’t tell you that, baka. You’ll have to wait and see.”
Huffing, Tuti crossed his arms, pulling off a bad imitation of Nagayan’s pout. “Well then I won’t tell you about what I got for you.”
The older man blinked. “But Tuti… you already got me something, remember?” He dug into his pants pocket and pulled out his keys. The small golden pear hung from the keychain.
Tuti grinned. “Yeah, but I wanted to get something else, since that was so small.”
Nagayan sighed. “Tuti, you know I don’t care about the size of the gift.”
“Yeah, but I wanted to get something better.” Nagayan caught some nervousness in the other man’s voice.
“Tuti?”
“Hey can I talk to you?” Tuti asked quickly, glancing around.
The other man arched a brow. “You kind of are right now…”
“No no, alone.” He stood, holding out his hand to Nagayan. “Please?”
Taking the hand hesitantly, Nagayan stood up. “Okay…?”
Tuti led him away from the small crowd, further into Kimeru’s home.
“Just watch out for the mistletoe.” Nagayan chuckled. “Kime hung them everywhere.
The other laughed, continuing on. Figuring the singer’s bedroom would be the quietest and secluded place to be, Tuti headed there. He shut the door behind them when they got there, not wanting anyone to hear.
“Tuti?” Nagayan asked, suspicious now.
“Ah, sit down?” The younger man asked, motioning to the bed. He sat down on the edge of the mattress, looking nervous. The look certainly didn’t suit him.
Nagayan frowned, sitting. He never liked it when Tuti was serious. The smile lines etched into his face didn’t fade, but made it seem as if Tuti wanted to smile but couldn’t. “What is it?”
“I… hm.” He paused, as if trying to think of what to say. “So, you liked my present?” He began, motioning to the keys Nagayan still held in his hand, keeping his eyes away.
“Uh… yes?”
“Why?” Tuti glanced up quickly. “I mean… what made it so nice?”
Nagayan shook his head. “I don’t know? It’s a golden pear.” He smiled. “It reminds me of when we were doing the musicals. When we were the Golden Pair.”
Tuti smiled as well. “Yeah. We were really close then, weren’t we?” He paused. “But the roles called for it. Eiji and Oishi were very close…” Nagayan was surprised again to see a blush across Tuti’s face.
“Um…Right. We were close… still are, aren’t we?”
Tuti looked away again. “Not as much. We’re not spending hours and hours on Golden Pair things together, because we’re in Bleach now.”
Nagayan nodded, understanding. “Aa… do you miss it?” he asked, his eyes straying around his best friend’s bedroom so he wouldn’t have to look at Tuti.
“Yes.” Tuti sighed. “I miss it a lot. It feels like I have nothing to do in the day, when I know I have tons.”
“I know what you mean.” Nagayan smiled. “I barely pay attention to what I do anymore. It all just flies by. I never have moments like those anymore… You know, when it took forever for a day to pass?”
Tuti laughed. “Yeah, because we had a rehearsal that night…” He hesitated in his next sentence. “Because we had… all those Golden Pair scenes to work on… ne?”
Nodding in agreement, the older man leaned back onto his hands. “I don’t know why there were so many. I mean, I know Oishi and Eiji spent almost every minute with each other… but did Ueshima-san have to order us to do the same?”
“It was to ‘work on being the Golden Pair rather than just acting it’.” Tuti quoted from their old manager.
“Ah, right. It all worked out in the end though, didn’t it?”
Tuti shrugged, his hand slipping into his pocket to fiddle with something. “I guess…”
“Tuti what’s going-“
“Takashi, I-“
They both started at the same time. Nagayan blushed. “You first.”
Tuti took a deep breath. “Takashi…” He started. “When we were the Golden Pair… after while, it wasn’t just me acting as Oishi… It was more like I was him… like Ueshima-san wanted me to be.” He stopped, thinking over what he would say next.
Nagayan stayed silent, staring at Tuti, or rather, the space right above his left ear. He didn’t want to catch the other’s gaze just in case the other saw the hope and anxiousness in his eyes. Little did he know, this was the same reason Tuti wasn’t looking at him.
“Oishi… he really cares for Eiji…” Tuti continued, biting his bottom lip. “More than he should really. Sure, he’s the mother of Seigaku, so he cares for them all… but something was different about Eiji.” Tuti’s hands were clenched in his lap as he sought words to explain. “He always looked forward to seeing Eiji in his day, and always worried when he wasn’t smiling, or joking around. Oishi always wanted to spend his time with Eiji… even when they had other things to do he wanted to skip his own responsibilities just to be with Eiji. Just to see him smile all the time…” Tuti trailed off, then shook his head lightly to get back on track. “Oishi cared for Eiji more than tennis. He only wanted Eiji to be happy, because then he would be happy too…”
“Tuti…” Nagayan interrupted, his voice cracking a bit from his lack of swallowing.
Tuti continued on, talking faster now. “What Oishi really wanted deep down was to know if Eiji felt the same as he did, but every time they were together, it never seemed right to bring it up. Every time, they’d get interrupted, or they were in public…He just wants to know if Eiji… if Eiji loves him back.” He faltered on the last sentence, and closed his eyes.
It was silent for a long time before Nagayan managed to form words from the emotional knot twisted in his throat.
“Tuti I….” He paused, then let out a breath. He looked at the younger man and smiled before wrapping two arms strongly around him. “Dammit Tuti! Every day all Eiji wanted was for Oishi to notice him and give him more attention each day. He wanted Oishi to love him back, too.”
Tuti turned his head, staring at Nagayan. “So… so Eiji felt the same… this whole time?”
With a chuckle, Nagayan rested his head on the other’s shoulder. “Of course. They’re the Golden Pair, remember?”
“Right. The Golden Pair…” Tuti finally smiled, bringing one hand around Nagayan to hug him back. “I was worried…”
“What… you? Worried? Has Oishi leaked into your brain or something?” Nagayan joked.
“Hush.” Tuti’s cheeks colored slightly.
A short silence passed between them, not as awkward and tense as before, until Nagayan spoke up.
“Ne… Tuti?”
“Hai?” The taller man looked down.
Nagayan pointed upwards to the ceiling with a small smile.
“Hm?” Tuti looked up, spotting a small green sprig against the whiteness of Kimeru’s ceiling. He stared for a long moment, before laughing. “Mistletoe? So Kime even put some up in his room, hm?”
“No, that was me…”Nagayan murmured.
"Oh, so you planned this then, hm?" Tuti poked him in the side, making the older man laugh. "You planned all along."
"Well, it was more a hope than a plan." Nagayan admitted, looking up at Tuti shyly.
Tuti grinned back. "Whatever it was, it worked." He paused. "Ano... aren't we supposed to kiss under mistletoe?"
Nagayan grinned back, leaning forward. "Yes. It's tradition."
Chuckling, Tuti tilted his head so that their forehead’s touched. "Then we'll have to keep up tradition, ne?"
"Mhmm..." They stared at each other for a long moment before Nagayan tipped his head up towards Tuti's, sealing their lips together.
It was a simple kiss. Just a touch of their lips for a few seconds. Despite how simple it was, both felt a pleasant shock from it.
Pulling away first, Tuti couldn't help grinning his widest. "I still haven't giving you your present yet."
Nagayan blinked, confused at first, but then it clicked. "Tuti, it's still Christmas Eve..."
"So?" He pulled a hand away from Nagayan to dig into his pocket. He pulled out a small, messily wrapped box.
"Tuti." Nagayan sighed, but was smiling. "You didn't have to..."
"Well, go on... open it." He handed the box to the older man, still grinning, though some of his nervousness had returned.
Nagayan looked up at him, then pulled off the wrapping paper and ribbon, uncovering a small brown cardboard box. He glanced up at the other in slight confusion and curiosity before opening the box. Nagayan gasped, nearly dropping the object. "Oh, Tuti...." He pulled out a small silver ring, holding it up so he could see it properly. "It's beautiful..."
"Look on the inside." Tuti motioned to the ring, a small blush on his cheeks.
Nagayan turned the ring, angling it so that the light would hit the inside. There was an inscription there. He squinted slightly and read it out loud.
"'Omae to Ore to wa...'..." And then there was a tiny heart engraved by it. Nagayan looked up at Tuti and grinned widely.
"Goruden Peaa..." He sang softly under his breath, finishing the line, then let out a laugh. He hugged Tuti tightly, squeezing his eyes shut as he felt the itch of tears starting.
"Meri Kurisumasu, Takashi."
*****
It was nearing midnight and everyone was still wide awake. In the front room, things were getting loud. Yanagi and Yuuyan had both had their share of Moriyama and Souta's alcohol and were currently singing a slightly off-key version of You Got Game, stopping every few seconds in the chorus to giggle and say 'You Got Gay' instead. Daiki was watching on, amused, as Moriyama was doing his own little dance two the boys' version of the song. Souta hadn't had as much of the concoction as his partner in crime had, so wasn't embarrassing himself in any way. He had, in fact rather seriously, excused himself to the bathroom, though he headed the other way down the hall. Naoyan was in a conversation with Abe about the American 'Santa Claus' deal, and Kimeru was trying to sit still.
"Kime, I'm sure they're fine." Abe broke from the conversation, which had somehow rotated to elves.
"But what if somehow, they screwed things up? What if they end up never speaking to each other again?" He bit down on a well manicured nail.
"They'll be fine." Abe sighed. " No need to worry."
"I'm going to check up on them." Kimeru frowned, standing.
"Kime." He apologized to Naoya, standing up and following after the singer, who had already strode out of the main room. "Kime, they'll be fine."
"How are you so sure?" He frowned, turning to face Abe, crossing his arms over his chest.
"Because. Tuti would find a way to get things between them right, and Nagayan won't give up until he has Tuti. Either way, things will end up okay." The taller man stepped forward, taking Kimeru's hands and uncrossing them. "Just believe they can, alright?"
Kimeru pouted, leaning forward to rest his head on the other's chest. He sighed. "Fine. But now I don't want to go back in there. It's giving me a headache." This was a lie. He didn't mind Yanagi-kun and Yuuyan making fun of his song, or even Eiji dancing. He would just rather be alone with Abe at this time.
"Alright. Let's go into the kitchen then. It's quieter." Abe motioned in the direction and began to lead Kimeru. They entered the kitchen, and Kimeru pulled away to lean against the stove. Abe followed, leaning next to him.
"Everyone's having fun, hm?"
Kimeru nodded. "Yes. Which is good. I would hate to have everyone bored at one of my parties."
Abe chuckled. "Kime-Hime can't have any of that, can he?"
"Of course not." Kimeru sniffed, looking away to hide a smile. "It's not acceptable.
Shaking his head lightly, Abe shifted to take one of Kimeru's hands in his.
The singer blushed at the contact, but didn't protest.
"It's almost midnight." Abe pointed out. "Almost time for me to give you my gift.
Kimeru was curious, but knew he could wait ten minutes. "Maybe you should go get it from where ever you hid it?"
Abe chuckled and pulled away. "Very well. I'll go get it. Wait here. He turned and headed off down the hall. On his way he passed Souta. Glancing back to see if Kime was watching him, he tugged the other man down the hall.
"Souta-Kun? Could you please do me a favor...?"
***
Returning back from wherever he'd gone, Abe walked back into the kitchen, the bundle hidden behind his back. He was wearing his jacket. "Kime? Could we go outside for this?"
Blinking curiously, Kimeru nodded, heading to grab his jacket. As he passed Abe, he tried to get a peek of what the other was hiding.
"Ah. Keep it a surprise, Kime." Abe chuckled.
“Fine.” Kimeru pouted, but slipped on his chunky boots. “I don’t know why we have to go outside though.”
“It’s part of the surprise.” Abe smirked. “Come on.” He opened the front door, motioning for the singer to go first. Kimeru stepped past him and out into the snow.
Kimeru pulled his jacket tighter around him as a sudden gust of frigid air sent snow at him. Seconds later, he heard the door close and Abe’s arm came around him from behind.
“Are you cold?”
Kimeru shook his head. “Not anymore.” He smiled, leaning back into the half-embrace.
They stayed silent for a bit, just listening to the muffled sounds on the party going on inside.
Abe shifted, then pulled out the bundle he still hid behind his back. He held it in front of Kimeru. “Here’s part one of the gift.” He smiled.
Kimeru blinked, then lifted off the material the covered the gift. His eyes went wide as the cover fell, revealing a bouquet of roses. He took them from Abe’s hands, staring at the flowers.
“Abe…” He began, a bit speechless, but the taller man hushed him.
“Part two...look up.”
The singer glanced up quickly. “What…?” He caught a glimpse of a small green sprig stuck to the top of the doorframe. “Mistletoe…?” Kimeru was confused. “But…I didn’t put any there.” Before he could muse any more, he was silenced by a quick kiss from Abe.
“I know. When I was getting the roses, I told Souta to put some up…” He smiled, looking proud of himself.
Kimeru just stared at him, unable to think of anything to say. “Abe…”
The other man continued to smile. “Do you want the last part?”
Kimeru wordlessly nodded, unsure of what could happen next.
Abe leaned forward and said in a voice only Kimeru could here. “Me.” He pressed a kiss to the singer’s cheek. “If you will have me.” He added as an afterthought.
“Oh…” Kime let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding and dropped the bouquet of roses. He threw both arms around the taller man, hugging him tightly. “Of course I’ll have you.” He whispered. Despite wearing his large boots, he still had to step on his toes a bit to get to a level height with Abe. He buried his face in the collar of the other man’s jacket, muffling a small sniff.
“Kime…?” Abe turned his head, looking worried.
“Ah, it’s nothing.” Kimeru raised his head smiling. He hastily wiped away a tear that had threatened to fall. “Just happy. Really happy.”
“I’m glad.” Abe smiled back warmly. He raised a hand to wipe away the moisture gathering around the singer’s eyes again. “Should we go inside?”
Kimeru shook his head slowly. “No. I want to stay out here a bit longer.” He shifted close to Abe.
“Alright.” The taller man’s arms went around him once again, warming his heart as well as his body. “Later then.”
~
Everyone left late into Christmas morning, with Daiki taking the drunk and half-asleep Eiji to his flat, and Naoyan bringing Souta home. Yanagi and Yuuyan took the train back, and Tuti and Nagayan decided on heading back to Tuti’s, since both had the day off.
Kimeru and Abe were the only ones that remained, and they had both fallen asleep on the couch after everyone left.
Curled up in the taller man’s arms, Kimeru slept on, knowing somewhere deep in his mind that he would have to clean up the messes when he woke up, but at least now, this year, he had someone to help him. The singer snuggled deeper into the embrace, lulled further into sleep by Abe’s even breathing.
He would have to tell Takashi about everything the next chance he got. Maybe even pester his best friend to tell him where he got the beautiful silver ring that now rested on the other’s pinky finger. It hadn’t been there when he arrived…
Making a small noise in his sleep, Kimeru shifted closer to the warmth around him. Abe gave a light chuckle, pressing a soft kiss to the tawny hair.
“Meri Kurisumasu, Kime.”
~
~
~
OWARI!
Glossary
Gomen -- Sorry
Hai --Yes
KiraKira-chan -- Nickname for Kime; means 'sparklesparkle-chan' or something to that extent…
Himitsu -- Secret
Onegai -- Please
Mou -- Sound of frustration
Hime-sama -- another Kime nickname; means princess
Jinguru beru -- Engrish for 'Jingle Bells'
Meri Kurisumasu -- Engrish for 'merry christmas'
Ne -- can mean 'hey' or 'right?'
Ano... -- Um...
Konban wa -- Good evening
Urusai -- basically 'shut up'
Minna -- everyone
Chibi futatsu -- little ones
Baka -- idiot
Omae to ore to wa... -- You and I are...<3 XD
Goruden peaa -- engrish for 'Golden Pair' these last two lines in reference to the golden pair song in the tenimyus.
Owari -- The end, or Finished
A/N: GAH! omg my third fic...also the longest fic I've ever written ;-; I hope it hasn't bored anyone with its length! =D Thankyou to my LOVELY Beta, kooriyoukai! I very muchly less-than-three her...I hope this gets a good spot in the contest! Now it's in Liz's hands... *frets* x-posted to tenimyu_slash of course