The Hot Jogger
Title: The Hot Jogger
Author: write_my_dreams
Pairing: Hiro x Cazqui, hints of Natsu x Daichi
Genre: AU
Warning: Unbetaed
Disclaimer: The members of Nocturnal Bloodlust belong to themselves and not to me. I only own the story and the writing.
Rating: PG
Chapter(s): 1/1
Summary: Based off the tumblr prompt "you jog by my house everyday"
Cazqui sees the same gorgeous guy jog by his window everyday. The routine changes when Daichi gets sick of him staring longingly out the window and goes outside, learning that the hot jogger is named Hiro and in training for a race.
Author's Comment: I started this in April, got horribly stuck with the ending, and didn't manage to finish it until now. I kept considering if I wanted to write more in this but decided to leave it as is.
Cazqui never used to be a morning person. He was always the type to roll out of bed, take a quick shower, put coffee in his tumbler, and head to work. No time wasted on eating breakfast or reading a magazine in the morning like his roommate did. Mornings were best spent in bed until he absolutely had to get up.
All of that changed after Mr. Hot Jogger became a regular fixture in the neighborhood. The first time he saw him Cazqui had been up unusually early thanks to Daichi’s dog barking hysterically at the neighbor’s cat. Unable to get back to sleep Cazqui had stalked over to their little table by the window deciding he might as well eat a proper breakfast if he wasn’t going to sleep more. That was when he saw him. Long black hair pulled back into a ponytail, sculpted chest that reminded him of a Greek god from one of Daichi’s books, simple black running shorts paired with red and black Nikes, and an iPod strapped to one muscular bicep with headphones in place. His face was every bit as gorgeous as his chest. Cazqui stared as he jogged by eyes moving to check out the hot guy’s ass. Oh he really was perfection from head to toe. Daichi couldn’t believe his eyes when Cazqui was up early the next day. He’d been rewarded when Mr. Hot Jogger went by again.
That fateful encounter was a month ago. Now Cazqui was mostly an early riser. Mr. Hot Jogger had altered his routine. Cazqui had been surprised to find that he liked getting up with Daichi. Eating whatever Daichi felt like making for breakfast, eating at the window with him, watching Mr. Hot Jogger run by. Unless it rained. Cazqui stayed in bed then because the jogger wouldn’t be out. Though once the rain had caught him by surprise. Cazqui almost drooled into his yogurt at the sight of the water droplets running down his chest.
Humming cheerfully Cazqui headed down the stairs and stopped as he saw Daichi already in the kitchen. He had the kettle on the stove and was making something that smelled incredible. “Hey, Dai.” Cazqui slung an arm around his roommate’s waist and kissed him on the cheek. He snuck a glance at the pan, feeling his mouth water at the sight of the blueberry pancakes. “Please tell me there’s enough for two,” he said eyeing the pancakes hopefully.
“There is,” Daichi replied. “If you set the table I’ll share.”
“I love you.” Cazqui kissed his cheek again.
Daichi giggled and pushed him away. “You only love me for my food!”
“Not true,” Cazqui insisted. Sure Daichi was a fantastic cook, but they also got along well. They liked to play guitar together, they had similar interests though Daichi could be a shut-in sometimes whenever a book he liked came out. Also their pets liked each other. Cazqui often found them snuggling which was rare for a cat and dog who hadn’t grown up together. Cazqui grabbed the tea kettle once it started whistling and filled their mugs putting a bag of black tea and a cinnamon stick into Daichi’s and taking green tea for himself. Eyeing the pancakes again he was grateful he had a high metabolism. Otherwise he’d have to roll himself out the door. Or see if Mr. Hot Jogger wanted a running buddy. Cazqui imagined he’d wind up making a fool of himself. The last time he’d run was to the house last week because a sudden rainstorm had turned his white clothing see through. The creepy couple at the end of the street had been checking him out, probably scheming a threesome.
Anxious not to miss the morning beauty Cazqui quickly set the table and hovered near the window watching for Mr. Hot Jogger. He came while the two were eating breakfast.
Daichi glanced out the window. “Are you ever going to say something to him?”
“Mm…” Mr. Hot Jogger was so gorgeous. Someone that pretty probably wasn’t single though. The good ones never were.
Daichi sighed in exasperation. “Something besides a sex moan?”
Cazqui flushed. “I wasn’t moaning!”
“You’d love it if he made you moan,” Daichi muttered into his tea. He set the cup down and gave Cazqui a look. “Next time, why don’t you be out there? You can say hi. Offer him a glass of water or something instead of slobbering over him the way my dog looks at a bone.”
Cazqui turned briefly to pout at Daichi then quickly looked back at Mr. Hot Jogger, not wanting to miss a moment of his glorious presence. “I do not slobber over him like an animal!”
“Please,” Daichi scoffed. “You’re doing it right now. I bet you dream of getting your hands on his chest.”
That was not true! Okay, maybe it was. Cazqui couldn’t admit to that though. “Dai, if you want to get laid so badly, you know Natsu would gladly get you into bed.”
Daichi kicked him under the table, making him yelp in surprise. Despite his tiny frame Daichi could kick hard. “Don’t change the subject or act like I’m as needy for a muscular man as you are. Besides, Natsu only wants me because he likes my food.”
“He also likes your ass.” Cazqui smirked as he saw that Daichi was blushing now. Point to him. He sighed as Mr. Hot Jogger disappeared around the corner and out of sight. For now. Maybe he should see where he lived… that’d be creepy though. Okay ogling him every day was creepy but finding his address would be on stalker level. Despite Daichi’s remark Cazqui wasn’t desperate or needy for a muscular man. Or any man. Though he’d make an exception for this one. Cazqui finished his tea and got up to take care of the dishes. Two parts of the routine down. Now he just had to shower and head in to work at ESP.
The next day
“Fuck!” Cazqui swore as he looked at his clock. Mr. Hot Jogger was always out at 8:00 and it was 8:40! Shit, he must’ve missed him. Practically tripping over his cat (who made a noise of displeasure) Cazqui rushed downstairs. Daichi was at the table with a book. Occasionally he’d grope for his toast or tea without looking up from the novel. Great, if he was that focused on a book he wouldn’t notice an earthquake let alone if Mr. Hot Jogger had been by.
“His name is Hiro,” Daichi said without looking up.
Cazqui blinked. “Who?”
“Your boyfriend. It’s been a month so I figured it was time you learned his name. Now instead of calling him ‘Mr. Hot Jogger’ you can call him Hiro.”
“How did you find out his name?” Cazqui asked still stunned that he knew who Mr. Hot Jogger was. It felt like he’d just discovered that Batman was really Bruce Wayne. Okay that was an exaggeration. Hiro wasn’t a superhero. Though he had the body of one. Or a god. A sex god…
Daichi lowered the book to give him a withering look. “I walked Mika out to check the mail and talked to him, you idiot. He stopped to pet Mika so we talked a little. Hiro says he likes to jog, that he’s training for a race, and he has two cats. In five minutes of talking to him I learned more about him than you ever could in a month of drooling over him from the window.”
“I wasn’t drooling!” Cazqui tried to protest even though he knew it wasn’t true. He looked forward to checking out Mr. Hot Jogger-Hiro-every day.
Daichi raised his book again. “Sure. You tell yourself that.”
Cazqui pouted at him then glanced out the window. Maybe it was a good thing that he’d overslept today. If he hadn’t would Daichi have still gone outside to talk to Hiro? To learn his name? Glancing down as Mao brushed against his legs Cazqui wondered if he should try taking his cat outside to meet Hiro. Though was it worth risking the safety of his legs to meet a hot man? He’d have to think about that at work today. Also what he’d say to Hiro. Hopefully his brain wouldn’t short circuit. He could just imagine himself blurting “Nice chest you’re hot” and looking like a total creep.
“I’m going to make breakfast, “Cazqui said. “Did you want anything else or are you fine with toast?”
“Just toast.”
Casting another morose look out the window Cazqui patted his cat then headed over to the fridge. His culinary skills were nowhere near Daichi’s, but he could make simple meals.
The next few days followed a pattern: Daichi pushing him to go outside and talk to Hiro while Cazqui kept chickening out. Each time Daichi rolled his eyes and griped at him while Cazqui made excuses not to go talk to Hiro. Really he was just nervous. And hopeless. What could he possibly say to Hiro? “Hi, you’re really hot and I’ve been watching you from my window for the last month. But I’m not a stalker I swear!”
…Because that would go over so well. Hiro would think he was insane and run in the opposite direction. He probably wouldn’t come back to run in this neighborhood either.
The chance to talk to Hiro came on an unseasonably hot day. Cazqui wandered downstairs in a tank top and his tiniest shorts which usually were just to seduce guys or worn during days of hellish heat. Daichi was practically sitting on the fan gulping down ice water and looking miserable. Even he had switched to shorts and a tank top rather than his usual preference for cozy layers.
"It's hot," Daichi whined.
Cazqui sighed. "Too hot." He poured himself a glass of ice water and joined Daichi at the table. "It's not supposed to be this hot for another two months..."
"Global warming," Daichi said gloomily. He picked up a paper fan and started fanning himself with it. "I hope Hiro won't be out today." Daichi glanced at the window. "Training or not he shouldn’t be out in this weather.”
Cazqui pressed his glass against his face. "No one should be out when it's this hot." He nudged Daichi with his foot. "Want a protein smoothie?"
"I think I'd rather sit in the fridge." Daichi huffed then froze as Hiro came into view. "What is he doing?! I can't believe he's jogging in this weather!" Snatching Cazqui's glass from him Daichi marched to the door. "I'm making him come inside to cool down and you are going to talk to him. I mean actual conversation! Don't just sit there and slobber over him like a dog who's found a bone."
"I wouldn't do that!" Cazqui protested. Why did Daichi keep making that comparison?
Daichi cast him an unconvinced look before heading outside. Pouting, Cazqui went to the window so he could watch his friend. This was ridiculous. There was no chance of tiny little Daichi making Hiro do anything.
"Hiro!" Daichi yelled.
Hiro stopped near their driveway. His hair was damp, and while sweaty man was usually not something that made Cazqui want to drop his pants, it worked with Hiro. He was so hot... And adorable when he tilted his head, looking confused. "Is something wrong?"
Damn even his voice was incredible. To think they might soon be in the same room. Crap what would he say? Knowing his luck he would wind up unable to do anything but drool and compliment Hiro's chest.
"It's too hot to be jogging. Come inside and have some water. Sit by the fan." Daichi ushered a protesting Hiro inside. Cazqui quickly stepped back already knowing he was blushing when Hiro brushed past him. He was so gorgeous and his chest was even better up close. Cazqui itched to get his hands on it. Or better yet get Hiro's hands on him.
Daichi had Hiro sit by the fan and gave him Cazqui's water glass. "Hiro, Cazqui. Cazqui, Hiro." He gestured between them in introduction then flopped down in another chair stretching out his legs.
There was an awkward pause before Cazqui politely bowed his head. "Nice to meet you." There, a coherent sentence! No creepy staring or perverted comment.
"Nice to meet you too." Hiro sipped the water practically inhaling it. He was obviously thirsty. Cazqui refilled his glass and returned it to him. "Thanks. It's hot today."
"Too hot for jogging," Daichi said firmly.
Hiro cast the brunette an amused look. "Have you been out jogging yet today?"
"Daichi's exercise is lifting books or his dog," Cazqui said dryly. "He ran once to stop our friend Natsu from eating his cake." Leaving unguarded food around Natsu was dangerous as he would quickly eat it. Daichi had managed to protect his cake since Natsu had been so shocked to see him running to guard it that he hadn’t been able to do anything.
"Gluttonous friend?" Hiro asked, holding the glass against his face and then his chest. Cazqui swallowed, forcing his eyes up from Hiro’s chest to look at his face again. How could someone so gorgeous be real? He jumped when Daichi kicked him under the table again. Shit he was staring creepily. Hiro hadn’t noticed at least.
“Yeah,” he said forcing out a laugh. “Natsu loves to eat.” He tried desperately to think of conversation topics that didn’t involve Hiro’s muscles. “D-Daichi said you were training for a race.”
Hiro nodded. “I am.” He sipped his water then pressed the glass to his face again. “It’s in two weeks.” His color seemed better now that he was inside with access to cold liquids. Cazqui wondered what the weather would be like for the race. Hopefully not too hot. He could only imagine how many runners would get sick if it was on a day like today.
“Two weeks? Wow, that’s soon. Are you ready?” Daichi asked. He gave Cazqui a look that seemed to say ‘talk to him’ punctuating that with a nudge under the table.
Hiro smirked. “I’ve been ready. I keep my body in peak physical condition. I’m hoping to win first place this year.”
“Did you win first last year?” Cazqui asked.
“Fifth,” Hiro replied looking displeased.
Fifth place wasn’t what he’d wanted, but it wasn’t anything to scoff at. Cazqui imagined he’d be in last place if he tried to run a marathon. He’d probably get beaten by some old granny who was secretly fit. “That’s still pretty high,” Cazqui replied. “I hope you can win first place.” He took a breath then asked, impulsively, “where’s your race? You jog by our house every day so Daichi and I should be out to support you. Watch you take first place.”
“It’s in Yoyogi Park.”
Cazqui should’ve known. Yoyogi was always a popular place for runners. He got up to get a notepad and a pen, scribbling down the date, time, and place of Hiro’s race. “We’ll be there.” If he arrived early enough he could sneak into Harajuku and get a cookie from the bakery he liked. Though maybe he shouldn’t. Eating cookies while watching runners would be like eating McDonald’s at the gym.
“We’ll be there,” Daichi promised.
Hiro smiled. “Thanks. I’ll look for you two.” He finished his water glass. “So I really jog past your house every day, huh,” he said to Cazqui.
“You do.”
“You noticed?”
Cazqui was mortified to find himself blushing. Maybe he shouldn’t have said every day. Now he surely looked like some sort of stalker. At least he hadn’t progressed to bringing out binoculars. Even he wasn’t that bad. “Er… yes…”
“He drools from the window every day,” Daichi added unhelpfully. “He even wakes up early so he can watch you jog by.”
“Daichi!” Cazqui hissed glaring at his roommate. Now he really sounded like a stalker!
“What? It’s true. You think Hiro’s hot and now he’s in here so you two should talk. Get to know each other better.” Smirking, Daichi got up and left the table quickly moving out of reach before Cazqui could hit him.
Groaning he buried his face in his hands. This was so embarrassing. “I’m sorry about my roommate. He’s terrible.”
“Is it true?”
“That he’s terrible? Yes.”
Hiro laughed softly gently pulling Cazqui’s hands down to look at him. “No, is it true that you watch me from the window every day.”
Cazqui’s blush was answer enough right? “Yes,” he confessed. “I swear I’m not trying to be some sort of stalker or anything… I just think you’re really hot. And you seem nice now that we’re actually talking.”
Hiro gently squeezed Cazqui’s hands. “You don’t have to be embarrassed. I know I look good.” He smiled then, obviously believing it without being obnoxiously arrogant.
“D-Do you want to go out sometime?” Cazqui blurted.
“I’d like that.” Hiro took the pen and paper so he could write down his name and number. “Call me and we can figure out a day that works for us.”
“Do you like movies? We could see one.” He wouldn’t get popcorn or candy so Hiro wouldn’t think he was a fatass. Which he could be. Cazqui liked food. Ugh the nervous babble was getting into his thoughts even.
“I do.”
Okay so maybe Daichi wasn’t so terrible after all. If it weren’t for him Cazqui would never have found out Hiro’s name or talked to him.
Two weeks later
The day of the race was cool yet sunny. Low humidity, no chance of rain-perfect weather for jogging. Runners wouldn’t have to worry about getting sick from the heat today. Cazqui took a breath as he approached the start line, scanning the crowd for Hiro and waving once he caught his attention. They’d gone on a couple dates and things seemed to be going well between them. Neither were sure if this would turn into something long-term, but they were content to keep things simple for now.
“Hey,” Cazqui smiled at Hiro. “Are you ready?”
“I am.” Hiro adjusted the number pinned to his shirt, glancing back at the other runners. He had a lot of competition to beat out in order to take first place. Cazqui hoped he’d win but if not, they had a date tomorrow. If Hiro were to lose Cazqui could always distract him.
“Good luck! Daichi and I have a place near the finish line. He baked some protein bars so if you’re hungry afterwards, come find us and we can feed you. He’s wearing a horrible red sweater… should be easy to find him.”
“A horrible red sweater?” Hiro looked amused.
Cazqui laughed. “Yeah, it’s long enough he could wear it as a dress but he insists it’s the coziest sweater he owns.” He noticed one of the staff members approaching the runners and stepped back. Time to go take his place beside Daichi now. “Good luck,” he said again. He hesitated then leaned in to kiss Hiro on the cheek. “You can do it.”
“Thanks.” Hiro pulled him close. “Tell Daichi to save a protein bar for me. I’ll be ready to eat something.” He smiled at Cazqui then went back to his previous spot. Cazqui waited until the start before cutting through the park to join Daichi.
“Did you kiss your boyfriend for good luck?” Daichi teased.
Cazqui rolled his eyes. “He’s not my boyfriend yet. We’ve just had a couple dates.” He picked up Daichi’s purse to take out one of the protein bars, munching on it as he glanced at the crowd gathered near the finish line. There were so many runners out today. Would Hiro get first place or not? He’d be disappointed if he didn’t, but Cazqui wouldn’t. Participating in a race was an accomplishment in itself. He certainly wouldn’t be able to do it. A sudden thought made him laugh.
“What?” Daichi asked.
“You know the carrot on a stick joke? Imagine Natsu running with some food dangling in front of him.”
Daichi laughed. “I wonder if he would.”
“He would if it was a meal you cooked. And you were waiting at the finish line in an apron… some sexy little outfit under it,” Cazqui teased.
Daichi huffed and crossed his arms. “He’d want the food not me.”
Cazqui knew that wasn’t true. Maybe, if Natsu asked Daichi on a date and proved that he liked him for himself and not just his culinary skills, they could do a double date with him and Hiro. Natsu liked working out so he and Hiro should get along well. Something to consider for the future.
*
“You realize that if you two do end up in a relationship that you’ll have to work out and eat healthy too? Hiro would be scandalized if he saw how lazy you are and how much chocolate you eat,” Daichi said, looking down the path to watch for the first runners.
“We shared dessert on our last date!”
Daichi blinked. “You actually shared a dessert with someone? Who are you and what have you done with Cazqui?”
Cazqui glowered at his best friend. Okay fine so he was like Natsu when it came to desserts. “It was a huge parfait. I’d have to have that as my meal to be able to eat the whole thing. Anyway, my point is that Hiro eats desserts too so if we do end up dating I certainly wouldn’t have to change my lifestyle just because my boyfriend works out a lot.” Also he would never change who he was just for a man.
Daichi seemed unconvinced, but dropped the subject as they saw the first runners. Cazqui was proud to see Hiro and another man at the lead with a small group behind them. The two were straining to be first, both so close. Cazqui hoped Hiro would win first place as he so desperately wanted. It was okay if he didn’t though. He’d always have Cazqui’s support. He watched with baited breath as the runners drew closer then started cheering Hiro on. Unfortunately, Hiro wasn’t quite fast enough and the second runner just barely crossed the line before him. Cazqui quickly went to Hiro, wanting to be there for him
Cazqui was proud to see Hiro. He and another runner were straining to be first. They were so close… Cazqui wouldn’t care if Hiro didn’t win first place, but he knew Hiro would. He watched with baited breath and as the runners got closer he loudly cheered Hiro on. It wasn’t quite enough and the other runner put on a final burst of speed and crossed the finish line moments before Hiro. Cazqui watched him go to a table with water bottles, picking up one and quickly draining it. “I’m going to talk to him.”
“Okay. Want me to come too or stay here?” Daichi offered.
“Um, I’ll go talk to him first.” Cazqui stepped away from his friend to go to Hiro. He was rubbing his side, clutching his water bottle and looking disappointed. He’d been so close to winning first place. “Congratulations,” he smiled at him. “You were amazing.”
Hiro raked his sweaty hair back. “Not good enough to win.”
“You were in fifth place last year, right? Now you’re in second. That’s something to be proud of.” Cazqui hesitated then reached out to take Hiro’s hand. “I know you didn’t win, but I’m proud of you anyway. It takes a lot to run a race and just think of all the runners behind you. You’ll at least go home with a medal. And next year or next race maybe you can get first place.”
“Maybe…” Hiro sighed.
“You can do it,” Cazqui insisted. He blinked when Hiro suddenly pulled him up against his side. Even through his sweater and jeans he could feel how warm the run had made him.
“Since I didn’t win, will you be my consolation prize?” Before Cazqui could say a word, Hiro suddenly dipped him into a kiss. He didn’t care that they had a substantial audience at all. Cazqui squeaked in surprise and quickly grabbed onto Hiro’s shoulders as he kissed him back. It was a little disconcerting to know there were so many people watching them. He liked kissing Hiro so he pushed that little insecurity aside. Hiro easily pulled them back up to stand straight, smoothing Cazqui’s hair back from his slightly flushed face. “Yes?” he teased.
“Yes,” Cazqui laughed. He stepped closer to whisper into Hiro’s ear, “If you want me to be your consolation prize then I have just the right outfit to wear for you later.”
“I’m curious to see that.”
Cazqui smirked. He knew Hiro would like him in that outfit.
Author: write_my_dreams
Pairing: Hiro x Cazqui, hints of Natsu x Daichi
Genre: AU
Warning: Unbetaed
Disclaimer: The members of Nocturnal Bloodlust belong to themselves and not to me. I only own the story and the writing.
Rating: PG
Chapter(s): 1/1
Summary: Based off the tumblr prompt "you jog by my house everyday"
Cazqui sees the same gorgeous guy jog by his window everyday. The routine changes when Daichi gets sick of him staring longingly out the window and goes outside, learning that the hot jogger is named Hiro and in training for a race.
Author's Comment: I started this in April, got horribly stuck with the ending, and didn't manage to finish it until now. I kept considering if I wanted to write more in this but decided to leave it as is.
Cazqui never used to be a morning person. He was always the type to roll out of bed, take a quick shower, put coffee in his tumbler, and head to work. No time wasted on eating breakfast or reading a magazine in the morning like his roommate did. Mornings were best spent in bed until he absolutely had to get up.
All of that changed after Mr. Hot Jogger became a regular fixture in the neighborhood. The first time he saw him Cazqui had been up unusually early thanks to Daichi’s dog barking hysterically at the neighbor’s cat. Unable to get back to sleep Cazqui had stalked over to their little table by the window deciding he might as well eat a proper breakfast if he wasn’t going to sleep more. That was when he saw him. Long black hair pulled back into a ponytail, sculpted chest that reminded him of a Greek god from one of Daichi’s books, simple black running shorts paired with red and black Nikes, and an iPod strapped to one muscular bicep with headphones in place. His face was every bit as gorgeous as his chest. Cazqui stared as he jogged by eyes moving to check out the hot guy’s ass. Oh he really was perfection from head to toe. Daichi couldn’t believe his eyes when Cazqui was up early the next day. He’d been rewarded when Mr. Hot Jogger went by again.
That fateful encounter was a month ago. Now Cazqui was mostly an early riser. Mr. Hot Jogger had altered his routine. Cazqui had been surprised to find that he liked getting up with Daichi. Eating whatever Daichi felt like making for breakfast, eating at the window with him, watching Mr. Hot Jogger run by. Unless it rained. Cazqui stayed in bed then because the jogger wouldn’t be out. Though once the rain had caught him by surprise. Cazqui almost drooled into his yogurt at the sight of the water droplets running down his chest.
Humming cheerfully Cazqui headed down the stairs and stopped as he saw Daichi already in the kitchen. He had the kettle on the stove and was making something that smelled incredible. “Hey, Dai.” Cazqui slung an arm around his roommate’s waist and kissed him on the cheek. He snuck a glance at the pan, feeling his mouth water at the sight of the blueberry pancakes. “Please tell me there’s enough for two,” he said eyeing the pancakes hopefully.
“There is,” Daichi replied. “If you set the table I’ll share.”
“I love you.” Cazqui kissed his cheek again.
Daichi giggled and pushed him away. “You only love me for my food!”
“Not true,” Cazqui insisted. Sure Daichi was a fantastic cook, but they also got along well. They liked to play guitar together, they had similar interests though Daichi could be a shut-in sometimes whenever a book he liked came out. Also their pets liked each other. Cazqui often found them snuggling which was rare for a cat and dog who hadn’t grown up together. Cazqui grabbed the tea kettle once it started whistling and filled their mugs putting a bag of black tea and a cinnamon stick into Daichi’s and taking green tea for himself. Eyeing the pancakes again he was grateful he had a high metabolism. Otherwise he’d have to roll himself out the door. Or see if Mr. Hot Jogger wanted a running buddy. Cazqui imagined he’d wind up making a fool of himself. The last time he’d run was to the house last week because a sudden rainstorm had turned his white clothing see through. The creepy couple at the end of the street had been checking him out, probably scheming a threesome.
Anxious not to miss the morning beauty Cazqui quickly set the table and hovered near the window watching for Mr. Hot Jogger. He came while the two were eating breakfast.
Daichi glanced out the window. “Are you ever going to say something to him?”
“Mm…” Mr. Hot Jogger was so gorgeous. Someone that pretty probably wasn’t single though. The good ones never were.
Daichi sighed in exasperation. “Something besides a sex moan?”
Cazqui flushed. “I wasn’t moaning!”
“You’d love it if he made you moan,” Daichi muttered into his tea. He set the cup down and gave Cazqui a look. “Next time, why don’t you be out there? You can say hi. Offer him a glass of water or something instead of slobbering over him the way my dog looks at a bone.”
Cazqui turned briefly to pout at Daichi then quickly looked back at Mr. Hot Jogger, not wanting to miss a moment of his glorious presence. “I do not slobber over him like an animal!”
“Please,” Daichi scoffed. “You’re doing it right now. I bet you dream of getting your hands on his chest.”
That was not true! Okay, maybe it was. Cazqui couldn’t admit to that though. “Dai, if you want to get laid so badly, you know Natsu would gladly get you into bed.”
Daichi kicked him under the table, making him yelp in surprise. Despite his tiny frame Daichi could kick hard. “Don’t change the subject or act like I’m as needy for a muscular man as you are. Besides, Natsu only wants me because he likes my food.”
“He also likes your ass.” Cazqui smirked as he saw that Daichi was blushing now. Point to him. He sighed as Mr. Hot Jogger disappeared around the corner and out of sight. For now. Maybe he should see where he lived… that’d be creepy though. Okay ogling him every day was creepy but finding his address would be on stalker level. Despite Daichi’s remark Cazqui wasn’t desperate or needy for a muscular man. Or any man. Though he’d make an exception for this one. Cazqui finished his tea and got up to take care of the dishes. Two parts of the routine down. Now he just had to shower and head in to work at ESP.
The next day
“Fuck!” Cazqui swore as he looked at his clock. Mr. Hot Jogger was always out at 8:00 and it was 8:40! Shit, he must’ve missed him. Practically tripping over his cat (who made a noise of displeasure) Cazqui rushed downstairs. Daichi was at the table with a book. Occasionally he’d grope for his toast or tea without looking up from the novel. Great, if he was that focused on a book he wouldn’t notice an earthquake let alone if Mr. Hot Jogger had been by.
“His name is Hiro,” Daichi said without looking up.
Cazqui blinked. “Who?”
“Your boyfriend. It’s been a month so I figured it was time you learned his name. Now instead of calling him ‘Mr. Hot Jogger’ you can call him Hiro.”
“How did you find out his name?” Cazqui asked still stunned that he knew who Mr. Hot Jogger was. It felt like he’d just discovered that Batman was really Bruce Wayne. Okay that was an exaggeration. Hiro wasn’t a superhero. Though he had the body of one. Or a god. A sex god…
Daichi lowered the book to give him a withering look. “I walked Mika out to check the mail and talked to him, you idiot. He stopped to pet Mika so we talked a little. Hiro says he likes to jog, that he’s training for a race, and he has two cats. In five minutes of talking to him I learned more about him than you ever could in a month of drooling over him from the window.”
“I wasn’t drooling!” Cazqui tried to protest even though he knew it wasn’t true. He looked forward to checking out Mr. Hot Jogger-Hiro-every day.
Daichi raised his book again. “Sure. You tell yourself that.”
Cazqui pouted at him then glanced out the window. Maybe it was a good thing that he’d overslept today. If he hadn’t would Daichi have still gone outside to talk to Hiro? To learn his name? Glancing down as Mao brushed against his legs Cazqui wondered if he should try taking his cat outside to meet Hiro. Though was it worth risking the safety of his legs to meet a hot man? He’d have to think about that at work today. Also what he’d say to Hiro. Hopefully his brain wouldn’t short circuit. He could just imagine himself blurting “Nice chest you’re hot” and looking like a total creep.
“I’m going to make breakfast, “Cazqui said. “Did you want anything else or are you fine with toast?”
“Just toast.”
Casting another morose look out the window Cazqui patted his cat then headed over to the fridge. His culinary skills were nowhere near Daichi’s, but he could make simple meals.
The next few days followed a pattern: Daichi pushing him to go outside and talk to Hiro while Cazqui kept chickening out. Each time Daichi rolled his eyes and griped at him while Cazqui made excuses not to go talk to Hiro. Really he was just nervous. And hopeless. What could he possibly say to Hiro? “Hi, you’re really hot and I’ve been watching you from my window for the last month. But I’m not a stalker I swear!”
…Because that would go over so well. Hiro would think he was insane and run in the opposite direction. He probably wouldn’t come back to run in this neighborhood either.
The chance to talk to Hiro came on an unseasonably hot day. Cazqui wandered downstairs in a tank top and his tiniest shorts which usually were just to seduce guys or worn during days of hellish heat. Daichi was practically sitting on the fan gulping down ice water and looking miserable. Even he had switched to shorts and a tank top rather than his usual preference for cozy layers.
"It's hot," Daichi whined.
Cazqui sighed. "Too hot." He poured himself a glass of ice water and joined Daichi at the table. "It's not supposed to be this hot for another two months..."
"Global warming," Daichi said gloomily. He picked up a paper fan and started fanning himself with it. "I hope Hiro won't be out today." Daichi glanced at the window. "Training or not he shouldn’t be out in this weather.”
Cazqui pressed his glass against his face. "No one should be out when it's this hot." He nudged Daichi with his foot. "Want a protein smoothie?"
"I think I'd rather sit in the fridge." Daichi huffed then froze as Hiro came into view. "What is he doing?! I can't believe he's jogging in this weather!" Snatching Cazqui's glass from him Daichi marched to the door. "I'm making him come inside to cool down and you are going to talk to him. I mean actual conversation! Don't just sit there and slobber over him like a dog who's found a bone."
"I wouldn't do that!" Cazqui protested. Why did Daichi keep making that comparison?
Daichi cast him an unconvinced look before heading outside. Pouting, Cazqui went to the window so he could watch his friend. This was ridiculous. There was no chance of tiny little Daichi making Hiro do anything.
"Hiro!" Daichi yelled.
Hiro stopped near their driveway. His hair was damp, and while sweaty man was usually not something that made Cazqui want to drop his pants, it worked with Hiro. He was so hot... And adorable when he tilted his head, looking confused. "Is something wrong?"
Damn even his voice was incredible. To think they might soon be in the same room. Crap what would he say? Knowing his luck he would wind up unable to do anything but drool and compliment Hiro's chest.
"It's too hot to be jogging. Come inside and have some water. Sit by the fan." Daichi ushered a protesting Hiro inside. Cazqui quickly stepped back already knowing he was blushing when Hiro brushed past him. He was so gorgeous and his chest was even better up close. Cazqui itched to get his hands on it. Or better yet get Hiro's hands on him.
Daichi had Hiro sit by the fan and gave him Cazqui's water glass. "Hiro, Cazqui. Cazqui, Hiro." He gestured between them in introduction then flopped down in another chair stretching out his legs.
There was an awkward pause before Cazqui politely bowed his head. "Nice to meet you." There, a coherent sentence! No creepy staring or perverted comment.
"Nice to meet you too." Hiro sipped the water practically inhaling it. He was obviously thirsty. Cazqui refilled his glass and returned it to him. "Thanks. It's hot today."
"Too hot for jogging," Daichi said firmly.
Hiro cast the brunette an amused look. "Have you been out jogging yet today?"
"Daichi's exercise is lifting books or his dog," Cazqui said dryly. "He ran once to stop our friend Natsu from eating his cake." Leaving unguarded food around Natsu was dangerous as he would quickly eat it. Daichi had managed to protect his cake since Natsu had been so shocked to see him running to guard it that he hadn’t been able to do anything.
"Gluttonous friend?" Hiro asked, holding the glass against his face and then his chest. Cazqui swallowed, forcing his eyes up from Hiro’s chest to look at his face again. How could someone so gorgeous be real? He jumped when Daichi kicked him under the table again. Shit he was staring creepily. Hiro hadn’t noticed at least.
“Yeah,” he said forcing out a laugh. “Natsu loves to eat.” He tried desperately to think of conversation topics that didn’t involve Hiro’s muscles. “D-Daichi said you were training for a race.”
Hiro nodded. “I am.” He sipped his water then pressed the glass to his face again. “It’s in two weeks.” His color seemed better now that he was inside with access to cold liquids. Cazqui wondered what the weather would be like for the race. Hopefully not too hot. He could only imagine how many runners would get sick if it was on a day like today.
“Two weeks? Wow, that’s soon. Are you ready?” Daichi asked. He gave Cazqui a look that seemed to say ‘talk to him’ punctuating that with a nudge under the table.
Hiro smirked. “I’ve been ready. I keep my body in peak physical condition. I’m hoping to win first place this year.”
“Did you win first last year?” Cazqui asked.
“Fifth,” Hiro replied looking displeased.
Fifth place wasn’t what he’d wanted, but it wasn’t anything to scoff at. Cazqui imagined he’d be in last place if he tried to run a marathon. He’d probably get beaten by some old granny who was secretly fit. “That’s still pretty high,” Cazqui replied. “I hope you can win first place.” He took a breath then asked, impulsively, “where’s your race? You jog by our house every day so Daichi and I should be out to support you. Watch you take first place.”
“It’s in Yoyogi Park.”
Cazqui should’ve known. Yoyogi was always a popular place for runners. He got up to get a notepad and a pen, scribbling down the date, time, and place of Hiro’s race. “We’ll be there.” If he arrived early enough he could sneak into Harajuku and get a cookie from the bakery he liked. Though maybe he shouldn’t. Eating cookies while watching runners would be like eating McDonald’s at the gym.
“We’ll be there,” Daichi promised.
Hiro smiled. “Thanks. I’ll look for you two.” He finished his water glass. “So I really jog past your house every day, huh,” he said to Cazqui.
“You do.”
“You noticed?”
Cazqui was mortified to find himself blushing. Maybe he shouldn’t have said every day. Now he surely looked like some sort of stalker. At least he hadn’t progressed to bringing out binoculars. Even he wasn’t that bad. “Er… yes…”
“He drools from the window every day,” Daichi added unhelpfully. “He even wakes up early so he can watch you jog by.”
“Daichi!” Cazqui hissed glaring at his roommate. Now he really sounded like a stalker!
“What? It’s true. You think Hiro’s hot and now he’s in here so you two should talk. Get to know each other better.” Smirking, Daichi got up and left the table quickly moving out of reach before Cazqui could hit him.
Groaning he buried his face in his hands. This was so embarrassing. “I’m sorry about my roommate. He’s terrible.”
“Is it true?”
“That he’s terrible? Yes.”
Hiro laughed softly gently pulling Cazqui’s hands down to look at him. “No, is it true that you watch me from the window every day.”
Cazqui’s blush was answer enough right? “Yes,” he confessed. “I swear I’m not trying to be some sort of stalker or anything… I just think you’re really hot. And you seem nice now that we’re actually talking.”
Hiro gently squeezed Cazqui’s hands. “You don’t have to be embarrassed. I know I look good.” He smiled then, obviously believing it without being obnoxiously arrogant.
“D-Do you want to go out sometime?” Cazqui blurted.
“I’d like that.” Hiro took the pen and paper so he could write down his name and number. “Call me and we can figure out a day that works for us.”
“Do you like movies? We could see one.” He wouldn’t get popcorn or candy so Hiro wouldn’t think he was a fatass. Which he could be. Cazqui liked food. Ugh the nervous babble was getting into his thoughts even.
“I do.”
Okay so maybe Daichi wasn’t so terrible after all. If it weren’t for him Cazqui would never have found out Hiro’s name or talked to him.
Two weeks later
The day of the race was cool yet sunny. Low humidity, no chance of rain-perfect weather for jogging. Runners wouldn’t have to worry about getting sick from the heat today. Cazqui took a breath as he approached the start line, scanning the crowd for Hiro and waving once he caught his attention. They’d gone on a couple dates and things seemed to be going well between them. Neither were sure if this would turn into something long-term, but they were content to keep things simple for now.
“Hey,” Cazqui smiled at Hiro. “Are you ready?”
“I am.” Hiro adjusted the number pinned to his shirt, glancing back at the other runners. He had a lot of competition to beat out in order to take first place. Cazqui hoped he’d win but if not, they had a date tomorrow. If Hiro were to lose Cazqui could always distract him.
“Good luck! Daichi and I have a place near the finish line. He baked some protein bars so if you’re hungry afterwards, come find us and we can feed you. He’s wearing a horrible red sweater… should be easy to find him.”
“A horrible red sweater?” Hiro looked amused.
Cazqui laughed. “Yeah, it’s long enough he could wear it as a dress but he insists it’s the coziest sweater he owns.” He noticed one of the staff members approaching the runners and stepped back. Time to go take his place beside Daichi now. “Good luck,” he said again. He hesitated then leaned in to kiss Hiro on the cheek. “You can do it.”
“Thanks.” Hiro pulled him close. “Tell Daichi to save a protein bar for me. I’ll be ready to eat something.” He smiled at Cazqui then went back to his previous spot. Cazqui waited until the start before cutting through the park to join Daichi.
“Did you kiss your boyfriend for good luck?” Daichi teased.
Cazqui rolled his eyes. “He’s not my boyfriend yet. We’ve just had a couple dates.” He picked up Daichi’s purse to take out one of the protein bars, munching on it as he glanced at the crowd gathered near the finish line. There were so many runners out today. Would Hiro get first place or not? He’d be disappointed if he didn’t, but Cazqui wouldn’t. Participating in a race was an accomplishment in itself. He certainly wouldn’t be able to do it. A sudden thought made him laugh.
“What?” Daichi asked.
“You know the carrot on a stick joke? Imagine Natsu running with some food dangling in front of him.”
Daichi laughed. “I wonder if he would.”
“He would if it was a meal you cooked. And you were waiting at the finish line in an apron… some sexy little outfit under it,” Cazqui teased.
Daichi huffed and crossed his arms. “He’d want the food not me.”
Cazqui knew that wasn’t true. Maybe, if Natsu asked Daichi on a date and proved that he liked him for himself and not just his culinary skills, they could do a double date with him and Hiro. Natsu liked working out so he and Hiro should get along well. Something to consider for the future.
*
“You realize that if you two do end up in a relationship that you’ll have to work out and eat healthy too? Hiro would be scandalized if he saw how lazy you are and how much chocolate you eat,” Daichi said, looking down the path to watch for the first runners.
“We shared dessert on our last date!”
Daichi blinked. “You actually shared a dessert with someone? Who are you and what have you done with Cazqui?”
Cazqui glowered at his best friend. Okay fine so he was like Natsu when it came to desserts. “It was a huge parfait. I’d have to have that as my meal to be able to eat the whole thing. Anyway, my point is that Hiro eats desserts too so if we do end up dating I certainly wouldn’t have to change my lifestyle just because my boyfriend works out a lot.” Also he would never change who he was just for a man.
Daichi seemed unconvinced, but dropped the subject as they saw the first runners. Cazqui was proud to see Hiro and another man at the lead with a small group behind them. The two were straining to be first, both so close. Cazqui hoped Hiro would win first place as he so desperately wanted. It was okay if he didn’t though. He’d always have Cazqui’s support. He watched with baited breath as the runners drew closer then started cheering Hiro on. Unfortunately, Hiro wasn’t quite fast enough and the second runner just barely crossed the line before him. Cazqui quickly went to Hiro, wanting to be there for him
Cazqui was proud to see Hiro. He and another runner were straining to be first. They were so close… Cazqui wouldn’t care if Hiro didn’t win first place, but he knew Hiro would. He watched with baited breath and as the runners got closer he loudly cheered Hiro on. It wasn’t quite enough and the other runner put on a final burst of speed and crossed the finish line moments before Hiro. Cazqui watched him go to a table with water bottles, picking up one and quickly draining it. “I’m going to talk to him.”
“Okay. Want me to come too or stay here?” Daichi offered.
“Um, I’ll go talk to him first.” Cazqui stepped away from his friend to go to Hiro. He was rubbing his side, clutching his water bottle and looking disappointed. He’d been so close to winning first place. “Congratulations,” he smiled at him. “You were amazing.”
Hiro raked his sweaty hair back. “Not good enough to win.”
“You were in fifth place last year, right? Now you’re in second. That’s something to be proud of.” Cazqui hesitated then reached out to take Hiro’s hand. “I know you didn’t win, but I’m proud of you anyway. It takes a lot to run a race and just think of all the runners behind you. You’ll at least go home with a medal. And next year or next race maybe you can get first place.”
“Maybe…” Hiro sighed.
“You can do it,” Cazqui insisted. He blinked when Hiro suddenly pulled him up against his side. Even through his sweater and jeans he could feel how warm the run had made him.
“Since I didn’t win, will you be my consolation prize?” Before Cazqui could say a word, Hiro suddenly dipped him into a kiss. He didn’t care that they had a substantial audience at all. Cazqui squeaked in surprise and quickly grabbed onto Hiro’s shoulders as he kissed him back. It was a little disconcerting to know there were so many people watching them. He liked kissing Hiro so he pushed that little insecurity aside. Hiro easily pulled them back up to stand straight, smoothing Cazqui’s hair back from his slightly flushed face. “Yes?” he teased.
“Yes,” Cazqui laughed. He stepped closer to whisper into Hiro’s ear, “If you want me to be your consolation prize then I have just the right outfit to wear for you later.”
“I’m curious to see that.”
Cazqui smirked. He knew Hiro would like him in that outfit.