Aperture (Last Chapter)
Title: Aperture
Pairing: Sakumoto, Ohmiya, Sakumiya (past), Sho/OC (past)
Rating: NC17
Chapter - Word Count: Chapter 10 - 7 109 words
Genre: AU, Angst, Drama, Family, Fluff, Kid, Romance
Summary: "Did you hate me when I didn't fight for you before?" Sho asked before it was too late. The other man paused and then turned to look back at him. The other looked up, thinking intently before looking back at Sho and shaking his head, "Maybe at first... But then you made me realize that something that is perfect isn't real happiness, and so instead, I'm thankful."
Beta: Un-beta.
Warning: mentions of M-PREG (There I said it!)
Author’s Notes: And we are in the last chapter guys. I finally finished it after three months. *teary eyed* I’ll just drop my dramatic speech in the notes after the whole chapter. For now, all I could say is thank you for being with me from start to finish. I hope you’ll enjoy this last chapter.
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Ten Seconds
"What a-are you doing here?" Jun stammered, taking a step back away from Sho. The older man’s presence there clearly shocked Jun. He was looking anything but Sho, as if looking for something, or someone. It was futile though since aside from the two of them, no one had arrived yet. When Sho entered the venue earlier, there was only one guard at post. It was quarter to seven, and Sho assumed people, especially the staffs, would come by at least before noon judging with how things work like that.
But then, Sho didn’t really have to worry about it. All he needed to worry about was to get alone with Jun, and everything seemed to be working in his favor.
Sho could tell that Jun was fidgeting, not knowing what to do around him. Sho couldn't blame Jun. He felt the same too. He didn't know how to react once he was only step away from the younger man. There were a lot of scenarios playing in his mind. Two of it was the top choices. One scene had Jun either pushing him away, or even landing a punch on his face. Sho wouldn't be so surprised if that happened. He totally deserved it. The second scenario he had in mind was Jun hugging him. It was a wishful thinking, and no matter how promising it sounded, Sho figured it wouldn't solve anything if it suddenly turned to that.
Sho should be the first one to move. The question was ‘how’.
Sho took a deep breath. He could feel Jun's eyes were focused in him, and instead of meeting it head on, he directed his eyes towards the sole picture in the wall in front of him. Sho walked closer to the wall until he was standing beside Jun. Sho knew if he moved his hand, his fingers would brush against Jun's. He wanted to do so, but he restrained himself, and instead went to something he was familiar with.
They said Sho was good with words. He could engage anyone with conversation and hold it for as long as he liked. He could daresay that eloquence was something he was gifted at. Yuka said so. He wondered if telling his own feelings were included in that talent because right that moment, it seemed impossible.
"I guess not." Sho murmured, earning a confuse look from Jun that Sho could see from the corner of his eyes.
"It's beautiful." Sho said instead. Jun didn't comment, but Sho could hear Jun shifting beside him, probably turning around to look at the picture too.
Jun was silent. Same went for Sho, but he dared to look at Jun, finding that the younger man was looking back at him. Rather than looking away, Sho held their gaze no matter how nervous he was feeling at that moment. Jun did the same, quirking an eyebrow towards Sho's direction. A challenge perhaps, but it was Jun who broke their eye contact, mumbling a soft, "Thank you."
Sho smiled and lifted his gaze back towards the picture. He closed his eyes, reminiscing the day that the picture in front of him was taken.
It felt like it was just yesterday. He could still hear the cheerfulness in his son's laugh, the scent of the freshly cooked porridge, and what he remembered the most was the warm presence close by.
It was the same warmth beside him, and at that moment, it was trying to slip away as Jun tried to excuse himself, "Excuse me, I must be somewhere else. You can stay and look around if you like."
Sho knew that if he let it slip away again from his hand, he would lose it forever as Jun said the words, "Goodbye, Sho-san."
Sho didn't let it. Not that day, and not ever. Before Jun could turn and walk away, Sho grabbed the younger man's wrist, gentle yet firm. Jun's instantly looked at their hands before looking up at Sho. Jun's eyes looked frightened. There were unshed tears glistening in those eyes, and there was tension with the way Jun was standing. Sho could tell with the way Jun was staring at him that Jun was pleading to be let go.
Sho couldn't. No matter how unfair he was, he just couldn't because he needed Jun in his life more than he admitted it.
"Stay..." Sho breathed like saying that word was the only thing that would keep him alive. "Please stay..." He pleaded and tears finally flowed openly from his eyes. He wasn't just asking for Jun to stay there with him. He was begging for Jun to stay with him and his life.
Jun moved, and Sho was ready to let go if Jun wanted out, but he only moved to get back to his previous pose, looking at the picture. Jun stayed. He stayed like all of those times that Sho kept pushing him away. Sho felt nothing but gratitude and love for the younger man.
As minutes ticked by, they stood there side by side, looking at the picture silently. At some point, Sho boldly let Jun's wrist go and intertwined his fingers with Jun's instead. He squeezed gently to make sure that it wasn't a dream. Jun's hand didn't pull back; instead it squeezed back with same intensity. Sho couldn't help but smile before stealing a glance towards Jun. Sho's smile grew wider, finding out that Jun was in fact looking back at him. There were also tears in Jun's eyes, and despite Sho, himself, was crying, he reached out to cup Jun's cheeks, wiping the tears away. Automatically, their bodies turned so that they were facing each other. Jun's eyes closed as Jun's cheeks leaned closer against Sho's palm. It took for awhile before one could speak. Their dried tears were just remnants left in their cheeks. There was a long silence except that Sho could hear his frantic heart. Jun had stayed. In that moment, it was time for Sho to make sure it was worth the stay.
"I'm not good with words, Jun..." Sho whispered admittedly.
Jun opened his eyes and stared at Sho for a moment before his free hand grabbed Sho's hand on his cheeks and held it as Sho held his other hand earlier.
"Not at least with these..." Sho continued, looking apologetic all of a sudden, but Jun was an understanding person. The younger man managed to calm his beating heart.
"No one is, Sho..." Jun said softly, "Still you can try..." He urged with a smile.
And Sho felt a little bit braver then.
"I always thought that what I have done would be for the best." Sho started, and as Jun listened intently, he continued, "I didn’t want you to carry the baggage I had from the beginning." Sho halted his words, biting his lips in contemplation. He was thinking of what words to use since things were jumbled in his mind. Jun squeezed his hand as an act of encouragement, urging him to let it out without a rush.
Sho looked away before continuing, “Shojiro, my divorce, my past… everything about myself, that’s why I lied to you and let you believe that I was married. I thought you would leave, but you didn’t.” Sho paused, looking back at Jun as he confessed, “At first, I thought the only reason why you stayed was because of lust and companionship, but I was wrong. Maybe, it's also my way of avoiding to commit into something deep that's why I choose to be blind."
Sho looked at their joined hands, rubbing his thumb over the back of Jun's hand. He continued, "Honestly, I’m afraid to commit...Me and commitments just don't go together, you know." Sho smiled, trying to ease the atmosphere. It looked strained though. He didn't know how to react on it. When he looked up, Jun was still staring at him, listening to all of his words without judgment, just with full understanding.
"I'm afraid I wasn't good enough so I keep pushing you away, but you stayed all throughout even if I don't deserve your love..." Sho looked at Jun's eyes. Tears started pooling in his eyes again, same as Jun. "Even now, I can't promise you anything... I'm still afraid, but I will try..." Sho said between tears. "I will try because I love you, and I want you to stay with me... With Shojiro..."
Sho sniffed for a moment, smiling while still in tears. Jun was in the same state, couldn't decide whether to laugh or to cry, but he listened as Sho spoke out.
"Jun..." Sho called before cupping Jun's cheeks and wiping the younger man's tears that fell. "I know I'm not in the position to ask this, but..." Sho paused for a moment, gathering his strength in voicing out his intentions. No matter how overwhelming things had been, he didn't let it to waver him, not at that moment at least. "Ohno-san said you can't have those two in your picture." Sho said, tipping his head towards the sole picture in Jun's wall for the exhibit. Sho could tell that Jun was confused at first, but the blush in the younger man's cheeks also told him that Jun had a sudden recount of spurting things in Ohno’s presence which was relayed towards Sho.
"They are available now, and they pretty much love to have you in their lives if you're willing to accept them..." Sho offered, "Especially that sick bastard who was blind and an asshole." Sho added, successfully making Jun laugh again despite the tears.
"Stupid!"Jun whacked Sho's head before pulling the older man for a kiss. When Jun pulled back, his lips lingered against Sho's smiling ones for awhile.
"Of course, I accept them..." Jun nodded before wrapping his arms around Sho's neck. Sho's hands were around Jun's waist automatically. Jun pecked Sho's lips before pulling away just an inch away. "Especially that sick bastard I ended up falling in love with." Jun added against Sho's lips.Their lips were connected in an instant, and the kiss turned languid yet passionate until Jun pulled away suddenly, surprising Sho.
"Nino..." Jun murmured, looking panic all of a sudden.
"Nino?" Sho repeated. He was confused about why Jun would mention Nino all of a sudden.
Jun looked worried, shifting his gaze away from Sho as he created a distance between his and Sho's bodies.
"A-aren't the two of you together?" Jun whispered. His voice was shaky as he said each word. It was like he had done something horribly wrong.
It took seconds before Sho could decipher what Jun meant. Everything was clicking in Sho's mind as to why Jun would think that he and Nino were back together. He might have not confirmed if before with Jun (since he didn't really had the chance to), but Sho could tell Jun knew Nino was his ex-boyfriend. Aiba, being busybody in their impromptu reunion especially after drinking lots of alcohol, confirmed it much.
The day Jun was confined replayed in Sho's mind like a movie. He and Nino had been out together, but that was just to clear things up. Jun misunderstood their togetherness. He couldn't blame Jun. As he looked back at his and Nino's interactions, they did give off the feeling of being together. In the past, yes, but that day, they were together merely as good friends. Nino belonged to someone else already, and he definitely knew he belong with the person in front of him.
Sho chuckled softly as he shook his head. Jun was confused with his answer, and Sho ended up laughing more. He knew it wasn't something to be laughed at, but Sho couldn't help himself. Jun was too adorable. Jun had shown him again how selfless the man was for thinking about others first. If anything, it seemed Jun would go the extremes of backing off and let him love whoever he wished. But that wasn't necessary. It was clear already to himself that he loved Jun, and in that moment, he fell in love more.
“Sho-san, I-,”
Before Jun could say anymore, Sho pulled Jun closerby his waist, placing a kiss in his forehead.
"There's no me and Nino, Jun." Sho whispered against Jun's lips. "Maybe in the past..." He added as an afterthought before encasing Jun in an embrace and finishing it with, “there’s just you and me."
There was a pregnant pause, and then Sho felt Jun's body shaking against his and heard muffled noises. When Sho pulled back, Jun was laughing.
"I can't believe it..." Jun exclaimed. It made Sho raise his eyebrow in question. "You're actually a sap, Sakurai-san..."Jun remarked before erupting to a howling laughter. Instead of being offended, Sho was actually grinning. There was also a relief in his chest. He too ended up laughing together. The laughter echoed against the solitude of the hall.
They stopped laughing after a few moments, just staring at each other's eyes. Sho was in awe once again with how beautiful Jun's eyes were, looking back at him. Sho couldn't help but voice out a question, "How can you do it, Jun?"
Jun was puzzled at Sho's question, and Sho helped by clarifying it. "How can you look at me like that?"
Jun was rendered speechless for the mean time, and Sho waited patiently for his answer. Jun smiled, "I love you..."
And that was enough answer for Sho. In all honesty, Jun didn't need to say it. Sho had felt it in every way possible. He had seen the way Jun looked at him, warm and lovingly. He felt how Jun had cared for him, gentle and patient. And with the way Jun had held on to him, he felt secure and loved. Jun still saw beauty in him despite his flaws and imperfections, and the pictures Ohno gave him were another thing to prove it. The only question Sho had was what he did in his past life that he was lucky to have someone like Jun.
Sho smiled as he felt his heart soaring. He titled his head to capture Jun's lips. Jun was meeting him halfway until...
Click!
Jun and Sho pulled their faces away from each other, looking flushed. They instantly looked at the source of the sound finding two intruders standing not far from them. One was holding the camera that had taken their picture while the other stood there with a sleepy demeanor.
"I am so sending this to Ninomi. It's about time those two go for the mushy stuff." The one with the camera said, nudging the smaller man beside him, "Don't you think so, Oh-chan?"
"You don't need to send that to Nino, Aiba-chan." Jun said, trying to sound compose despite still looking perplexed, he then glared at Aiba's companion, "I thought you'll come back later in the evening, Satoshi-kun?"
The two culprits grinned at each other. Ohno shrugged while Aiba laughed like a hyena before admitting, "Well, Ninomi assigned me to make sure you guys stop running in circles. Whew! I thought we would go to extreme measures of tying both of you together." Aiba relayed, pulling out a rope from his jeans pocket as he said the last sentence for emphasis.
Sho gaped and Jun grimaced. Sho ended up smiling after, thinking it was typical of Nino. And then suddenly Sho remembered something. "Masaki-kun, where is Shojiro?"
"Oh don't worry Sho-chan. After I got a call from Oh-chan..." Aiba started, pointing his thumb towards Ohno, who affirmed with a nod, "I asked Becky to take care of Shojiro as I went here with Oh-chan to do Nino's bidding." Aiba assured Sho.
"She'll be coming here with Juri nee-san, and they'll bring Shojiro with them for tonight." Ohno filled in while Aiba nodded in agreement.
Sho raised an eyebrow, smiling in amusement at their friends. Some weird yet wonderful friends they had. In the next second, it dawned to Sho what Ohno had said. Sho asked, "Tonight?"
"Don't tell me you came here without tux or anything for the opening of the exhibit?" Jun muttered beside him, tugging at their joined hands. Sho looked at it, loving the fact that they had been holding hands long before the sudden intrusion. Jun tugged it again, getting back Sho's attention. Sho looked up, looking sheepishly at Jun. The reason why Jun was there in Okinawa slipped out of his mind.
"Well, I honestly came here unprepared." Sho admitted. His free hand was scratching the back of his neck. "I didn't think I'll be attending the exhibit after all."
"You have to... I mean..." Jun said, suddenly looking perplexed. He bit his lips, avoiding Sho's eyes. "I was hoping you'll be my date at the opening." Jun murmured. The tinge of red was getting evident again in his cheeks.
"Well, I'd love that." Sho smiled, "I can just rent a tux." He offered, squeezing Jun's hand.
Click!
Jun and Sho heard another camera click, and Jun instantly glared at Aiba.
"WHAT? Nino asked for a full report. So I'm doing what I can." Aiba shrugged before taking more pictures. After several pictures were taken, Aiba paused, "Oh, and you don't have to worry about your tux Sho-chan. I brought your things with me. I figured if things worked out between you and Matsujun, you’ll be his date." Aiba added as he looked at his phone with Ohno peering over. They were probably in the process of choosing photos for them to send to Nino.
“And that concludes the whole coverage.” Aiba announced, showing his phone towards Jun and Sho’s direction. The two, Sho and Jun, needed to narrow their eyes just to see Aiba's phone screen displaying that the pictures were sent before Aiba pocketed it. He patted his tummy afterwards and asked, “I’m starving. We should get breakfast ne?”
Jun rolled his eyes before mentioning, “There’s a restaurant nearby. Let’s head there.”
“Great!” Aiba cheered and headed towards the exit with Ohno, walking side by side. Along the way, Aiba got his phone again, shouting something along the lines of, ‘Oh! Nino said CONGRATULATIONS DUMMIES!,’ before completely getting out of the hall.
Sho shook his head, thinking that their friends got too carried away. He couldn’t really find fault about it though, but it was embarrassing. Sho just let it pass by and look at his lover. “Well, at least something good happened with them being here.”
“Maybe…” Jun shrugged with a smile, before taking at step towards the exit. Sho looked at the picture once again before he felt Jun tugging their joined hands. Jun asked, “Is something wrong?”
Sho shook his head again. He thought it was the exact opposite.
That night, as the exhibit commenced, Sho was beside Jun all throughout.
Like Aiba said, Becky did come with Juri and Shojiro. The boy was excited to meet Jun again after not seeing 'his an-chan' for quite some time. As Shojiro entered the venue with Becky and Juri and spotted them, rather than greeting his father, Shojiro ran towards Jun. The boy instantly hugged Jun after being hoisted up. Of course, Jun was overjoyed at Shojiro's gesture especially when the boy gave a paper-made flower as congratulatory gift. He probably learned it from school.
Sho just happily observed from the side, not minding it one bit. He rather loved the scene of Jun and Shojiro together.
Sho was then officially introduced to Juri as Jun's lover. When Juri looked at him, Sho felt cold sweat running at his neck. Juri's eyes were intense just like Jun's, beautiful but definitely intense. Something was telling Sho that if he got into Juri's bad page, he would get something worse than that.
Sho also met again Jun and Ohno's colleagues that he met in the bar before when he first met Jun. Sho couldn't help but chuckle at the sight of Jun being flushed and embarrassed as people poke their heads about his and Jun's relationship. Nevertheless, Sho was happy he finally met people who were always around Jun.
Sho felt proud that he got the chance to stand by Jun's side for that night, to be Jun's date for that wonderful event. He was there to witness Jun in a new perspective. It wasn't anymore glancing from the back or from a far, but rather from beside the man.
People passed by, praises and greetings were given not just to Jun but also to Sho for being the model. Of course, he humbly pointed out that it was all Jun, and it just happened that he was the photo's subject. Jun was supposed to be the main star of the night, yet there he was, standing beside the younger man. It felt that Jun was sharing that moment with him. Every time Jun would looked at him or squeeze his hand, Sho couldn't help but think that he was standing there as Jun's equal.
It might be too early to think like that, but it would come to that right? Yeah, it would come to that. They had come far after all.
The night was still young when Sho and Jun decided not to linger. People still kept on coming, but they left the venue together with their friends, family, and colleagues. Ohno, together with his co-workers with Jun, took the train back to Tokyo since there was a scheduled photo shoot tomorrow. (They mentioned something along the lines of having a scary boss, and if they didn't open the studio as scheduled even though it was a Saturday, that scary boss would explode. Jun took that as a compliment with a smirk though.)
Together with Juri, Shojiro, Aiba, and Becky, they went back to the hotel where they were all checked-in. Since it was pass bedtime, Shojiro was put to sleep. Juri - who was now looking at Sho with mischievous eyes - volunteered to let Shojiro sleep at her room since the boy's things was with her anyways.
Aiba and Becky decided to take that chance to explore Okinawa's night life. It seemed they were hanging out more often lately. When Sho asked the lanky man what the real score between them was, Aiba blushed and said that they were just getting to know each other. Sho left it to that, observing how comfortable and happy the two were in each other's company.
As they walked through the hallway of the hotel, Aiba told Sho that his things were delivered already in Jun's room. After that, Aiba whispered something to Sho's ears, "Don't worry, I've come prepared so there's lube. Oh! There's also a rope in case you're into that stuff." Aiba tried to wink afterwards.
Sho was flushed and instantly smacked Aiba at the back of the latter's head. Jun and Becky, who were busy talking about the kids back in the kindergarten since Becky was relaying how Jun was missed by those bunch, looked at them puzzled. Aiba laughed while Sho palmed his face in embarrassment. As Aiba and Becky shared mischievous grins afterwards, something was telling Sho that the two was in it together. Sho decided that those two would get along just fine.
They arrived in front of Sho's and Jun's room. Aiba and Becky then said their goodbyes and left. Sho leaned his side at the wall while Jun opened the door. Once done, Jun looked at Sho. A playful smile in the younger man's features as Jun grabbed his hand led him inside.
It felt like déjà vu with Jun leading Sho the way. It wasn't at empty streets going to Jun's apartment building anymore though. It was just in one hotel room going to the balcony that oversaw the beach. There was solitude, and Sho felt his heart would jump out of his chest as Jun held his hand tighter.
Jun leaned back on the banister, pulling Sho against his body with the older man's tie. There was a blush in his cheeks, and Jun looked so adorable in Sho's eyes.
There was silence. The soft buzz of the sea nearby could be heard. Flies sang the nature's song for the night. Jun and Sho's soft puffs of breathe created a harmony with it.
No one between them knew what to do next. Jun had his head hang low while playing with Sho's tie, and Sho watched it with amusement. When Jun gazed straight back to Sho's eyes through his bangs, he looked shy all of a sudden.
Maybe it was the serenity of the night, the soft clash of the sea in the shore, or the warmth of the proximity of their bodies against each other that made Sho initiate a kiss. Jun met his lips halfway and before he knew it, their lips were dancing in a languid rhythm.
Next moment, Jun had pulled Sho back inside and towards the bed. Things got a little bit faster as they discarded their outer layers. Suit jackets were carelessly thrown on the floor. Ties were loosened and removed while at least two buttons of dress shirts were unfastened along the way. Their kisses were getting hot and needy. Tongues caressed each other in the process, and lips were getting red and bruised with the intense kissing.
Jun pulled Sho closer than possible, trying to get much heat from the man. Upon reaching the bed, Jun was laid against the mattress with Sho hovering over the younger man. He ended up straddling Jun with one hands supporting his weight while the other roamed all over Jun's body. Sho's lips was spreading feather-like yet burning kisses in Jun's face, gentle and tingly. There was a sensual moan version of his name from Jun's mouth, sending a jolt in his body and going directly south.
Sho followed, alternating between trailing licks downwards and nipping at Jun's jaw until Sho settled in the nook of Jun's neck, leaving a mark. Jun arched his back, feeling Sho's firm caresses in his arms and sides. Jun writhed with want, responding to Sho's ministrations with demand and intensity. Jun's hands ended up at Sho's back, grabbing as much as he could. It was like they couldn't get enough of each other, or probably that was the actual reason.
Sho pulled back just enough space to land his forehead against Jun's since they needed a breather. Sho opened the eyes he didn't realized he had closed. Eye to eye, he and Jun stared at each other. Both eyes darkened and hazed with lust, want... But there was love.
Sho's hand went to Jun's neck. A simple caress was place until he felt a cold metal around Jun's neck. He smiled at it when he recognized it.
"You still wear it?" Sho mused at the necklace. It was the couple necklace they got for free in their three-day trip before.
Jun was confused for a moment until he realized which Sho was talking about. He looked at Sho's bare neck and frowned. "And you're not wearing it..."Jun commented along with a pout. Sho couldn't grasped a tinge of disappointment in Jun's voice when he said that.
"Well, Shojiro has it."Sho explained.
Jun blinked at Sho before his mouth formed in an 'o'. Sho couldn't tell whether Jun was mad or happy about it, so he further explained why he had Shojiro wear the necklace."When I thought I won't see you anymore, I let Shojiro wear it. I know it might be petty, but it just give me joy knowing the two of you have it," Sho paused, touching the pendant with his forefinger, "You two are my picture perfect." He said before kissing the side of Jun's mouth.
Jun gasped, looking touched, but the sudden shift of Jun’s facial expression a moment later puzzled Sho. It looked like he was overjoyed. It was as if Jun remembered something that he would like to say, but didn't know how. Under him, Jun became stiff, looking away. There was a sudden nervous shake in Jun's body, and Sho wondered if he did something wrong.
"Is something the matter?" Sho asked, sounding concerned. He sat up first to give Jun more room to breathe while still straddling the younger man.
There was a rosy blush in Jun's face. The moonlight seeping from the opened doors leading to the balcony made it clearer to be seen. Jun bit his lower lip, looking away for a moment before looking back again at Sho. He sat up too and adjusted himself so that his back was leaning against the headrest. Sho crawled closer, but maintained enough distance so that Jun wouldn't feel too crowded.
Jun puffed a breath out before saying, "I think we should get another pair of these," Jun suggested. Before Sho could speak, he continued as he held the pendant between his thumb and forefinger, "So that there's one for me, one for you, one for Shojiro, and...,"Jun paused. His eyes didn't falter from staring at Sho's eyes as he grabbed Sho's hand with his free hand, leading it to rest at his still flat tummy. "…another one for…." Jun let the sentence hang in there, trusting Sho to decipher what he meant.
Sho was lost for words that moment, trying to digest what Jun had said. At first, he couldn't understand it until Jun spoke to enlighten him, "There will be four of us in our picture perfect." Jun revealed. His smile was shy yet blooming in ways Sho couldn't explain.
It started to finally click in. Jun's shy expression, the stomach touching, the implications, and there was the number. Him, Jun, Shojiro and then...
Sho's eyes widen in surprise, his gaze shifting back and forth between Jun's face and his hands on Jun's tummy. A goofy and cheerful smile formed in his lips as it dawned to him what Jun actually meant.
"I'm not dreaming right?" Sho asked, still not believing.
Jun chuckled before shaking his head, laughing afterwards when Sho gaped with mouth open.
"We're going to have a child?" Sho asked. His voice was an octave higher due to the excitement. When Jun gave another nod for confirmation, Sho dived in to capture Jun's lips in a searing kiss. His arms instantly around Jun's waist while Jun's hands held to his shoulders. It maybe the joy and excitement, but each connection of the lips and swipe of the tongues intensified. Sho just felt like he was the luckiest person alive.
They paused for awhile to catch theirs breathes Sho's forehead was again with Jun. His hand was propped beside Jun's hips while the other was rubbing Jun's arms gently in an up and down motion.
Jun had his eyes closed already, his palm was flat against Sho's chest while his other hand thumbing Sho's lower lip.
Sho wanted to do this right, and so he voiced it out, "I want you."
Jun opened his eyes. There was a lovely smile tugging on his face. Jun leaned forward until his mouth touched Sho's ear. He whispered, "You don't have to ask."
Jun's body was lenient under Sho's eyes. It was an act of total submission, placing full trust in Sho to take the lead, and Sho did.
Sho took his time, savoring everything that was laid for his eyes to see. One by one, he discarded layers of their clothes while peppering Jun with small kisses. Their dress shirts were thrown on the floor, followed by their pants and underwear, leaving them fully naked in front of each other side. Underneath him, Jun was glowing, just like that time when he first arrived at the function hall earlier when he was trying to salvage their relationship. That night, it was a different glow though because it wasn't tainted anymore with gloominess but just pure bliss and happiness. Sho wanted that it would stay that way forever.
Sho leaned in, engaging Jun into a passionate kiss. Jun moaned as Sho's tongue explored his mouth. Sho's hands were travelling downwards. One found itself at the side of Jun's hip as a foundation for balance while the other caressed Jun's side .
"Ah, Sho~~~"Jun moaned, tilting his head to the side when Sho started sucking at the neck. His hands were grasping the sheets as his sensitivity heightened with Sho's face went lower until Sho's mouth found a nub, alternating between sucking and softly biting it. Sho's free hand then started pinching it softly before Sho's mouth gave it the same amount of attention it did to the other before. Jun's breathe turned erratic, gasping as Sho went lower. His body gave an excited tremble as he felt Sho's hand holding each of his thighs to part it open. There was a hitch in his breathe when Sho huffed a breath in the head of Jun's hardened cock.
Sho looked up, finding that Jun was looking at him, sweaty and flushed. Jun's eyes were once again clouded with lust, and the younger man's lips were slightly parted. The enticing sight sent a delicious jolt in Sho's body. In particular, his cock became harder and livelier.
Sho took Jun in his mouth in one go, making the other man moan out his name. He bobbed his head up and down, hallowing his cheeks before licking the tip like he would do to a lollipop while his hand pumped the rest that he couldn't cover.
Sho took a glance in Jun's eyes again, humming in satisfaction after knowing that Jun propped himself up by his elbows just to observe him. Of course, Sho gave him a show, swiping his tongue over the head that was already leaking with pre-cum as he stared at Jun intently.
"AH FUCK SHO-SAN!" Jun cursed wantonly as his elbows gave up.
Sho might have been angry with how Jun had addressed him, but it sounded so sexy in his ears. Sho let it slipped and just continued with his ministrations, taking Jun wholly till Jun's tip reach his throat. His hands were rubbing Jun's thighs before he held Jun's hips to stop the younger man thrusting in his mouth. He did allow Jun to grip his hair, letting Jun to drive his pace in taking Jun's cock inside his mouth. Sho took it without complains.
"So close..." Jun panted as a warning, and Sho let it, helping Jun in his pending orgasm. Seconds later, Jun released everything in Sho's mouth. The older man taking as much as he could until Jun's cock became placid, and Sho released it with a last lick in the tip.
When Sho looked up, Jun's forehead were full of sweat. His hair sticking in it, and Sho crawled up and reached out his hand, wiping the sweat and brushing away the bangs with the back of his palm. Sho and Jun got themselves in a lip lock, as Sho pressed his body weight against Jun's. Sho moved away moments later, earning a disapproving grunt from Jun. When Sho came back, he had a small bottle of lube at hand.
Jun rolled his eyes as if saying 'this wasn't our first', but Sho wanted to do it properly despite being impatient himself. He kissed Jun's forehead before positioning himself between Jun's legs. He lifted them up, uncapping the bottle as he coated his fingers with its contents.
Jun was looking at Sho in anticipation, biting his lower lip.
Sho traced the ring of muscles in his view before penetrating it with one finger. Jun's face contorted, showing uneasiness, and Sho tried to soothe it with kisses in Jun's body. Another finger was added and another, trying to loosen Jun's walls.
As Sho's fingers continued to thrust inside, Jun mewled especially when Sho hit the spot. One of his hand gripping at the sheets while the other gripped at Sho's shoulder. He opened his eyes he unconsciously closed earlier and looked straight at Sho. "Inside now..." Jun moaned. His own cock came back to life.
Sho removed his fingers and instantly coated his cock with lube. He leaned his face toward Jun's and kissed Jun to distract the younger man as he inserted his cock in Jun's hole slowly but deep till he was complete sheathe. There was a combined groan and moan that escaped their throat only to be swallowed in their heated kiss. Sho didn't move at first, allowing Jun to adjust. Sho took that time to explore Jun's mouth deeper, sucking on Jun's tongue. Sho broke the kiss as he trailed the saliva that flow from Jun's mouth until his mouth reached Jun's neck and sucked on it.
"Move..." Jun panted, and Sho complied.
It was a slow rhythm at first. Sho's hips were snapping back and forth, rocking their bodies in the process. Jun's hands found itself around Sho's shoulders as Jun nipped at Sho's ears. Sho's thrusts picked up its pace especially when Jun's started meeting his thrusts.
Sho could hear the sound of skin against skin and the fusion of his moans and groans with Jun's. He could smell the mixture of sweat and sex filled the room, but nothing could beat the feeling of having Jun in his arms as they moved their bodies in harmony. It wasn't their first yet it felt so new. That night, they were making love with a promise of tomorrow.
When Sho felt that his release was coming soon, Sho’s hand grabbed Jun’s cock between them, pumping it with the same rhythm as his thrust. Jun’s face hid itself against Sho's neck as Sho held the younger man closer.
When Sho was at his peak, Sho pulled away slight, just enough to see Jun who was thenstaring back at him.
"I love you..." Sho mouthed before kissing Jun passionately. After a few more thrusts, Sho released inside of Jun shortly followed by the younger man. Their bodies were shudderingfrom the shock of orgasm.
Feeling he could no longer hold himself up, Sho's body landed by Jun's side. They stilled for a moment, trying to catch their breathes. Sho mustered all the strenght he could and lifted Jun, so that at least half Jun's body was in lying on top of Sho.
There was a surprised yelp from Jun, but there wasn't any protest. He was rather enjoying the new position as he nuzzle his nose agaisnt Sho's neck. They lied there completely sated, baskedintheaftermathofmakinglove until Sho called, "Jun..."
"Hmm?" Jun hummed, looking up to Sho.
"You're beautiful..." Sho said.
"Please don't mention Nino's name after that, or this time I'll punch you in the guts." Jun reminded playfully.
Sho blinked, confused for a moment until he remembered the last time they made love. He realized his mistake back then, finally knowing the reason why Jun though he and Nino were back together. It was also why the younger man started avoiding him. Sho frowned. Although Jun said it in a light manner, trying to add humor, he couldn't help but feel guilty. His careless mumbling had cause him to almost lose Jun.
Sho felt Jun's fingers in his forehead, smoothing the frown in there. He had a genuined smile when he reassured Sho that, "It's in the past already. We're here now right?"
Sho nodded and kissed Jun's palm that his lips could reach. He said instead, "I love you, Jun..." He felt that he hadn't said it enough.
Jun's eyes were getting droopy then, but there was a contented mile as he mumbled sleepily, "I love you too..."
Jun finally succumbed to sleep, and Sho watched till he too fell sleepy. Sho kissed both of Jun's eyes and forehead before Sho followed his lover in dreamland.
It was early morning when Sho's eyes fluttered open. Jun's musky but sweet scent blasting his nostrils was the first thing he noticed after waking up with Jun's nape against his nose. He had his arms around Jun's waist, spooning the younger man. His palm and fingers were spread out on Jun's still flat tummy, acting like a protection.
"I'll protect all of you... you, your older brother and your daddy... I'll make sure of that..."Sho promised inwardly, hoping that the hand on top of Jun's tummy would deliver the message to the small bundle of joy growing inside of Jun's tummy.
Sho could hear Jun's calm breathing. It was an indication that the younger man was still soundly asleep. It would have been perfect if Jun was facing him. He could spend that moment by watching Jun while still asleep. It might be creepy, but Sho was betting to himself that it would be one of his favorite past time in the morning especially if he woke up first than the latter. Nevertheless, their position was still satisfying. Jun's was warm against him, and Sho couldn't ask for more. It was comfortable, and it just felt right.
Sho could have fall asleep again as minutes passed by. The chirping birds outside and the soft rush of the sea blended with Jun's small puffs of breathe, acting as his morning lullaby. But he felt Jun shifting in his arms, making him alert and worried that he might have woken his lover accidentally. Jun turned around with closed eyes, and Sho thought Jun was still asleep until the latter's eyes opened.
Jun's eyes were laden with sleepiness, but his voice was full of mirth when he gave a remark despite doing so in a whisper, "You weren't snoring..."
It sounded like it was Jun's explanation as of why he was woken up. Sho showed his amusement with a laugh. Instead of saying a retort, he just pecked Jun's lips as he tightened his hold around Jun's case.
Jun's eyes closed at the contact automatically. A small beautiful smile gracing his lips, and Sho found everything about Jun more exquisite than ever. The soft glow of the morning light added its flare to that beauty.
Everything felt blissful then. Everything just felt right as it clicked to its places in Sho's life. He had Jun in his arms, a new family member to welcome, and precious moments to cherish forever. All of those were Sho's picture perfect despite the blurs and mishaps that had and could happen.
(That also included Jun suddenly grasping out of Sho's hold to run towards the bathroom in favor of throwing up. Based on his experience with Yuka before, Morning sickness could be nasty, and there were also Jun’s constant changes of mood to mind later on for sure.)
Sho doesn't mind. Pictures aren't perfect. People aren't too. They just need to open their hearts to focus on what is important.
It's love...
Fin.
Chapter 9 | Chapter 10 | Epilogue------------------------------------------
Additional notes from the author:
I CAN’T BELIEVE I ACTUALLY FINISH THIS! I ACTUALLY DID IT, AND FOR THE RECORD IT ONLY TOOK ME THREE MONTHS TO FINISH A CHAPTERED FIC!!! GAAAAH!
Sorry about the caps-lock abuse. It’s just that this is the first time I achieve such feat considering I have been writing fics since 2007. Although, this isn’t the first time I have finished a chaptered fic (and I can tell you that those fics I finished can only be counted with one hand. OTL), but doing it in 3 months (almost four if you counted the times I was saving the first two chapters) is really, really surprising for me.
This particular chapter is quite hard for me honestly. It has taken me weeks before I'm able to finish it. Maybe deep inside, I don't want to let go of this yet. LOL~~~ Things might be all over the place within this chapter (especially the smut part), but I hope it is fitting end to this story.
I won’t say anything more, but to express my deepest gratitude to all of you who have been with me from start till finish. I couldn’t have accomplished all of this without you, wonderful readers. Thank you! I hope you have enjoyed reading it till the end. I also wish that you learned something from this even if I did this out of pure entertainment. Thanks again.
Special thanks to my confidants who kept motivating me to continue writing this: (1) akhikaru, (2) octavialao, (3) neenomeow, and (4) mcfib29. If they weren’t there, I might have stopped in the middle of all of this.
Thanks again for tuning in. Comments are wholeheartedly accepted. Please do tell me too what part of the story you like, or what aspect of this story the hook you in. Thank you!
P.S. You see the ‘Epilogue’ there? You know what it means ne? Jya, matta ne! :3
Pairing: Sakumoto, Ohmiya, Sakumiya (past), Sho/OC (past)
Rating: NC17
Chapter - Word Count: Chapter 10 - 7 109 words
Genre: AU, Angst, Drama, Family, Fluff, Kid, Romance
Summary: "Did you hate me when I didn't fight for you before?" Sho asked before it was too late. The other man paused and then turned to look back at him. The other looked up, thinking intently before looking back at Sho and shaking his head, "Maybe at first... But then you made me realize that something that is perfect isn't real happiness, and so instead, I'm thankful."
Beta: Un-beta.
Warning: mentions of M-PREG (There I said it!)
Author’s Notes: And we are in the last chapter guys. I finally finished it after three months. *teary eyed* I’ll just drop my dramatic speech in the notes after the whole chapter. For now, all I could say is thank you for being with me from start to finish. I hope you’ll enjoy this last chapter.
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Ten Seconds
"What a-are you doing here?" Jun stammered, taking a step back away from Sho. The older man’s presence there clearly shocked Jun. He was looking anything but Sho, as if looking for something, or someone. It was futile though since aside from the two of them, no one had arrived yet. When Sho entered the venue earlier, there was only one guard at post. It was quarter to seven, and Sho assumed people, especially the staffs, would come by at least before noon judging with how things work like that.
But then, Sho didn’t really have to worry about it. All he needed to worry about was to get alone with Jun, and everything seemed to be working in his favor.
Sho could tell that Jun was fidgeting, not knowing what to do around him. Sho couldn't blame Jun. He felt the same too. He didn't know how to react once he was only step away from the younger man. There were a lot of scenarios playing in his mind. Two of it was the top choices. One scene had Jun either pushing him away, or even landing a punch on his face. Sho wouldn't be so surprised if that happened. He totally deserved it. The second scenario he had in mind was Jun hugging him. It was a wishful thinking, and no matter how promising it sounded, Sho figured it wouldn't solve anything if it suddenly turned to that.
Sho should be the first one to move. The question was ‘how’.
Sho took a deep breath. He could feel Jun's eyes were focused in him, and instead of meeting it head on, he directed his eyes towards the sole picture in the wall in front of him. Sho walked closer to the wall until he was standing beside Jun. Sho knew if he moved his hand, his fingers would brush against Jun's. He wanted to do so, but he restrained himself, and instead went to something he was familiar with.
They said Sho was good with words. He could engage anyone with conversation and hold it for as long as he liked. He could daresay that eloquence was something he was gifted at. Yuka said so. He wondered if telling his own feelings were included in that talent because right that moment, it seemed impossible.
"I guess not." Sho murmured, earning a confuse look from Jun that Sho could see from the corner of his eyes.
"It's beautiful." Sho said instead. Jun didn't comment, but Sho could hear Jun shifting beside him, probably turning around to look at the picture too.
Jun was silent. Same went for Sho, but he dared to look at Jun, finding that the younger man was looking back at him. Rather than looking away, Sho held their gaze no matter how nervous he was feeling at that moment. Jun did the same, quirking an eyebrow towards Sho's direction. A challenge perhaps, but it was Jun who broke their eye contact, mumbling a soft, "Thank you."
Sho smiled and lifted his gaze back towards the picture. He closed his eyes, reminiscing the day that the picture in front of him was taken.
It felt like it was just yesterday. He could still hear the cheerfulness in his son's laugh, the scent of the freshly cooked porridge, and what he remembered the most was the warm presence close by.
It was the same warmth beside him, and at that moment, it was trying to slip away as Jun tried to excuse himself, "Excuse me, I must be somewhere else. You can stay and look around if you like."
Sho knew that if he let it slip away again from his hand, he would lose it forever as Jun said the words, "Goodbye, Sho-san."
Sho didn't let it. Not that day, and not ever. Before Jun could turn and walk away, Sho grabbed the younger man's wrist, gentle yet firm. Jun's instantly looked at their hands before looking up at Sho. Jun's eyes looked frightened. There were unshed tears glistening in those eyes, and there was tension with the way Jun was standing. Sho could tell with the way Jun was staring at him that Jun was pleading to be let go.
Sho couldn't. No matter how unfair he was, he just couldn't because he needed Jun in his life more than he admitted it.
"Stay..." Sho breathed like saying that word was the only thing that would keep him alive. "Please stay..." He pleaded and tears finally flowed openly from his eyes. He wasn't just asking for Jun to stay there with him. He was begging for Jun to stay with him and his life.
Jun moved, and Sho was ready to let go if Jun wanted out, but he only moved to get back to his previous pose, looking at the picture. Jun stayed. He stayed like all of those times that Sho kept pushing him away. Sho felt nothing but gratitude and love for the younger man.
As minutes ticked by, they stood there side by side, looking at the picture silently. At some point, Sho boldly let Jun's wrist go and intertwined his fingers with Jun's instead. He squeezed gently to make sure that it wasn't a dream. Jun's hand didn't pull back; instead it squeezed back with same intensity. Sho couldn't help but smile before stealing a glance towards Jun. Sho's smile grew wider, finding out that Jun was in fact looking back at him. There were also tears in Jun's eyes, and despite Sho, himself, was crying, he reached out to cup Jun's cheeks, wiping the tears away. Automatically, their bodies turned so that they were facing each other. Jun's eyes closed as Jun's cheeks leaned closer against Sho's palm. It took for awhile before one could speak. Their dried tears were just remnants left in their cheeks. There was a long silence except that Sho could hear his frantic heart. Jun had stayed. In that moment, it was time for Sho to make sure it was worth the stay.
"I'm not good with words, Jun..." Sho whispered admittedly.
Jun opened his eyes and stared at Sho for a moment before his free hand grabbed Sho's hand on his cheeks and held it as Sho held his other hand earlier.
"Not at least with these..." Sho continued, looking apologetic all of a sudden, but Jun was an understanding person. The younger man managed to calm his beating heart.
"No one is, Sho..." Jun said softly, "Still you can try..." He urged with a smile.
And Sho felt a little bit braver then.
"I always thought that what I have done would be for the best." Sho started, and as Jun listened intently, he continued, "I didn’t want you to carry the baggage I had from the beginning." Sho halted his words, biting his lips in contemplation. He was thinking of what words to use since things were jumbled in his mind. Jun squeezed his hand as an act of encouragement, urging him to let it out without a rush.
Sho looked away before continuing, “Shojiro, my divorce, my past… everything about myself, that’s why I lied to you and let you believe that I was married. I thought you would leave, but you didn’t.” Sho paused, looking back at Jun as he confessed, “At first, I thought the only reason why you stayed was because of lust and companionship, but I was wrong. Maybe, it's also my way of avoiding to commit into something deep that's why I choose to be blind."
Sho looked at their joined hands, rubbing his thumb over the back of Jun's hand. He continued, "Honestly, I’m afraid to commit...Me and commitments just don't go together, you know." Sho smiled, trying to ease the atmosphere. It looked strained though. He didn't know how to react on it. When he looked up, Jun was still staring at him, listening to all of his words without judgment, just with full understanding.
"I'm afraid I wasn't good enough so I keep pushing you away, but you stayed all throughout even if I don't deserve your love..." Sho looked at Jun's eyes. Tears started pooling in his eyes again, same as Jun. "Even now, I can't promise you anything... I'm still afraid, but I will try..." Sho said between tears. "I will try because I love you, and I want you to stay with me... With Shojiro..."
Sho sniffed for a moment, smiling while still in tears. Jun was in the same state, couldn't decide whether to laugh or to cry, but he listened as Sho spoke out.
"Jun..." Sho called before cupping Jun's cheeks and wiping the younger man's tears that fell. "I know I'm not in the position to ask this, but..." Sho paused for a moment, gathering his strength in voicing out his intentions. No matter how overwhelming things had been, he didn't let it to waver him, not at that moment at least. "Ohno-san said you can't have those two in your picture." Sho said, tipping his head towards the sole picture in Jun's wall for the exhibit. Sho could tell that Jun was confused at first, but the blush in the younger man's cheeks also told him that Jun had a sudden recount of spurting things in Ohno’s presence which was relayed towards Sho.
"They are available now, and they pretty much love to have you in their lives if you're willing to accept them..." Sho offered, "Especially that sick bastard who was blind and an asshole." Sho added, successfully making Jun laugh again despite the tears.
"Stupid!"Jun whacked Sho's head before pulling the older man for a kiss. When Jun pulled back, his lips lingered against Sho's smiling ones for awhile.
"Of course, I accept them..." Jun nodded before wrapping his arms around Sho's neck. Sho's hands were around Jun's waist automatically. Jun pecked Sho's lips before pulling away just an inch away. "Especially that sick bastard I ended up falling in love with." Jun added against Sho's lips.Their lips were connected in an instant, and the kiss turned languid yet passionate until Jun pulled away suddenly, surprising Sho.
"Nino..." Jun murmured, looking panic all of a sudden.
"Nino?" Sho repeated. He was confused about why Jun would mention Nino all of a sudden.
Jun looked worried, shifting his gaze away from Sho as he created a distance between his and Sho's bodies.
"A-aren't the two of you together?" Jun whispered. His voice was shaky as he said each word. It was like he had done something horribly wrong.
It took seconds before Sho could decipher what Jun meant. Everything was clicking in Sho's mind as to why Jun would think that he and Nino were back together. He might have not confirmed if before with Jun (since he didn't really had the chance to), but Sho could tell Jun knew Nino was his ex-boyfriend. Aiba, being busybody in their impromptu reunion especially after drinking lots of alcohol, confirmed it much.
The day Jun was confined replayed in Sho's mind like a movie. He and Nino had been out together, but that was just to clear things up. Jun misunderstood their togetherness. He couldn't blame Jun. As he looked back at his and Nino's interactions, they did give off the feeling of being together. In the past, yes, but that day, they were together merely as good friends. Nino belonged to someone else already, and he definitely knew he belong with the person in front of him.
Sho chuckled softly as he shook his head. Jun was confused with his answer, and Sho ended up laughing more. He knew it wasn't something to be laughed at, but Sho couldn't help himself. Jun was too adorable. Jun had shown him again how selfless the man was for thinking about others first. If anything, it seemed Jun would go the extremes of backing off and let him love whoever he wished. But that wasn't necessary. It was clear already to himself that he loved Jun, and in that moment, he fell in love more.
“Sho-san, I-,”
Before Jun could say anymore, Sho pulled Jun closerby his waist, placing a kiss in his forehead.
"There's no me and Nino, Jun." Sho whispered against Jun's lips. "Maybe in the past..." He added as an afterthought before encasing Jun in an embrace and finishing it with, “there’s just you and me."
There was a pregnant pause, and then Sho felt Jun's body shaking against his and heard muffled noises. When Sho pulled back, Jun was laughing.
"I can't believe it..." Jun exclaimed. It made Sho raise his eyebrow in question. "You're actually a sap, Sakurai-san..."Jun remarked before erupting to a howling laughter. Instead of being offended, Sho was actually grinning. There was also a relief in his chest. He too ended up laughing together. The laughter echoed against the solitude of the hall.
They stopped laughing after a few moments, just staring at each other's eyes. Sho was in awe once again with how beautiful Jun's eyes were, looking back at him. Sho couldn't help but voice out a question, "How can you do it, Jun?"
Jun was puzzled at Sho's question, and Sho helped by clarifying it. "How can you look at me like that?"
Jun was rendered speechless for the mean time, and Sho waited patiently for his answer. Jun smiled, "I love you..."
And that was enough answer for Sho. In all honesty, Jun didn't need to say it. Sho had felt it in every way possible. He had seen the way Jun looked at him, warm and lovingly. He felt how Jun had cared for him, gentle and patient. And with the way Jun had held on to him, he felt secure and loved. Jun still saw beauty in him despite his flaws and imperfections, and the pictures Ohno gave him were another thing to prove it. The only question Sho had was what he did in his past life that he was lucky to have someone like Jun.
Sho smiled as he felt his heart soaring. He titled his head to capture Jun's lips. Jun was meeting him halfway until...
Click!
Jun and Sho pulled their faces away from each other, looking flushed. They instantly looked at the source of the sound finding two intruders standing not far from them. One was holding the camera that had taken their picture while the other stood there with a sleepy demeanor.
"I am so sending this to Ninomi. It's about time those two go for the mushy stuff." The one with the camera said, nudging the smaller man beside him, "Don't you think so, Oh-chan?"
"You don't need to send that to Nino, Aiba-chan." Jun said, trying to sound compose despite still looking perplexed, he then glared at Aiba's companion, "I thought you'll come back later in the evening, Satoshi-kun?"
The two culprits grinned at each other. Ohno shrugged while Aiba laughed like a hyena before admitting, "Well, Ninomi assigned me to make sure you guys stop running in circles. Whew! I thought we would go to extreme measures of tying both of you together." Aiba relayed, pulling out a rope from his jeans pocket as he said the last sentence for emphasis.
Sho gaped and Jun grimaced. Sho ended up smiling after, thinking it was typical of Nino. And then suddenly Sho remembered something. "Masaki-kun, where is Shojiro?"
"Oh don't worry Sho-chan. After I got a call from Oh-chan..." Aiba started, pointing his thumb towards Ohno, who affirmed with a nod, "I asked Becky to take care of Shojiro as I went here with Oh-chan to do Nino's bidding." Aiba assured Sho.
"She'll be coming here with Juri nee-san, and they'll bring Shojiro with them for tonight." Ohno filled in while Aiba nodded in agreement.
Sho raised an eyebrow, smiling in amusement at their friends. Some weird yet wonderful friends they had. In the next second, it dawned to Sho what Ohno had said. Sho asked, "Tonight?"
"Don't tell me you came here without tux or anything for the opening of the exhibit?" Jun muttered beside him, tugging at their joined hands. Sho looked at it, loving the fact that they had been holding hands long before the sudden intrusion. Jun tugged it again, getting back Sho's attention. Sho looked up, looking sheepishly at Jun. The reason why Jun was there in Okinawa slipped out of his mind.
"Well, I honestly came here unprepared." Sho admitted. His free hand was scratching the back of his neck. "I didn't think I'll be attending the exhibit after all."
"You have to... I mean..." Jun said, suddenly looking perplexed. He bit his lips, avoiding Sho's eyes. "I was hoping you'll be my date at the opening." Jun murmured. The tinge of red was getting evident again in his cheeks.
"Well, I'd love that." Sho smiled, "I can just rent a tux." He offered, squeezing Jun's hand.
Click!
Jun and Sho heard another camera click, and Jun instantly glared at Aiba.
"WHAT? Nino asked for a full report. So I'm doing what I can." Aiba shrugged before taking more pictures. After several pictures were taken, Aiba paused, "Oh, and you don't have to worry about your tux Sho-chan. I brought your things with me. I figured if things worked out between you and Matsujun, you’ll be his date." Aiba added as he looked at his phone with Ohno peering over. They were probably in the process of choosing photos for them to send to Nino.
“And that concludes the whole coverage.” Aiba announced, showing his phone towards Jun and Sho’s direction. The two, Sho and Jun, needed to narrow their eyes just to see Aiba's phone screen displaying that the pictures were sent before Aiba pocketed it. He patted his tummy afterwards and asked, “I’m starving. We should get breakfast ne?”
Jun rolled his eyes before mentioning, “There’s a restaurant nearby. Let’s head there.”
“Great!” Aiba cheered and headed towards the exit with Ohno, walking side by side. Along the way, Aiba got his phone again, shouting something along the lines of, ‘Oh! Nino said CONGRATULATIONS DUMMIES!,’ before completely getting out of the hall.
Sho shook his head, thinking that their friends got too carried away. He couldn’t really find fault about it though, but it was embarrassing. Sho just let it pass by and look at his lover. “Well, at least something good happened with them being here.”
“Maybe…” Jun shrugged with a smile, before taking at step towards the exit. Sho looked at the picture once again before he felt Jun tugging their joined hands. Jun asked, “Is something wrong?”
Sho shook his head again. He thought it was the exact opposite.
That night, as the exhibit commenced, Sho was beside Jun all throughout.
Like Aiba said, Becky did come with Juri and Shojiro. The boy was excited to meet Jun again after not seeing 'his an-chan' for quite some time. As Shojiro entered the venue with Becky and Juri and spotted them, rather than greeting his father, Shojiro ran towards Jun. The boy instantly hugged Jun after being hoisted up. Of course, Jun was overjoyed at Shojiro's gesture especially when the boy gave a paper-made flower as congratulatory gift. He probably learned it from school.
Sho just happily observed from the side, not minding it one bit. He rather loved the scene of Jun and Shojiro together.
Sho was then officially introduced to Juri as Jun's lover. When Juri looked at him, Sho felt cold sweat running at his neck. Juri's eyes were intense just like Jun's, beautiful but definitely intense. Something was telling Sho that if he got into Juri's bad page, he would get something worse than that.
Sho also met again Jun and Ohno's colleagues that he met in the bar before when he first met Jun. Sho couldn't help but chuckle at the sight of Jun being flushed and embarrassed as people poke their heads about his and Jun's relationship. Nevertheless, Sho was happy he finally met people who were always around Jun.
Sho felt proud that he got the chance to stand by Jun's side for that night, to be Jun's date for that wonderful event. He was there to witness Jun in a new perspective. It wasn't anymore glancing from the back or from a far, but rather from beside the man.
People passed by, praises and greetings were given not just to Jun but also to Sho for being the model. Of course, he humbly pointed out that it was all Jun, and it just happened that he was the photo's subject. Jun was supposed to be the main star of the night, yet there he was, standing beside the younger man. It felt that Jun was sharing that moment with him. Every time Jun would looked at him or squeeze his hand, Sho couldn't help but think that he was standing there as Jun's equal.
It might be too early to think like that, but it would come to that right? Yeah, it would come to that. They had come far after all.
The night was still young when Sho and Jun decided not to linger. People still kept on coming, but they left the venue together with their friends, family, and colleagues. Ohno, together with his co-workers with Jun, took the train back to Tokyo since there was a scheduled photo shoot tomorrow. (They mentioned something along the lines of having a scary boss, and if they didn't open the studio as scheduled even though it was a Saturday, that scary boss would explode. Jun took that as a compliment with a smirk though.)
Together with Juri, Shojiro, Aiba, and Becky, they went back to the hotel where they were all checked-in. Since it was pass bedtime, Shojiro was put to sleep. Juri - who was now looking at Sho with mischievous eyes - volunteered to let Shojiro sleep at her room since the boy's things was with her anyways.
Aiba and Becky decided to take that chance to explore Okinawa's night life. It seemed they were hanging out more often lately. When Sho asked the lanky man what the real score between them was, Aiba blushed and said that they were just getting to know each other. Sho left it to that, observing how comfortable and happy the two were in each other's company.
As they walked through the hallway of the hotel, Aiba told Sho that his things were delivered already in Jun's room. After that, Aiba whispered something to Sho's ears, "Don't worry, I've come prepared so there's lube. Oh! There's also a rope in case you're into that stuff." Aiba tried to wink afterwards.
Sho was flushed and instantly smacked Aiba at the back of the latter's head. Jun and Becky, who were busy talking about the kids back in the kindergarten since Becky was relaying how Jun was missed by those bunch, looked at them puzzled. Aiba laughed while Sho palmed his face in embarrassment. As Aiba and Becky shared mischievous grins afterwards, something was telling Sho that the two was in it together. Sho decided that those two would get along just fine.
They arrived in front of Sho's and Jun's room. Aiba and Becky then said their goodbyes and left. Sho leaned his side at the wall while Jun opened the door. Once done, Jun looked at Sho. A playful smile in the younger man's features as Jun grabbed his hand led him inside.
It felt like déjà vu with Jun leading Sho the way. It wasn't at empty streets going to Jun's apartment building anymore though. It was just in one hotel room going to the balcony that oversaw the beach. There was solitude, and Sho felt his heart would jump out of his chest as Jun held his hand tighter.
Jun leaned back on the banister, pulling Sho against his body with the older man's tie. There was a blush in his cheeks, and Jun looked so adorable in Sho's eyes.
There was silence. The soft buzz of the sea nearby could be heard. Flies sang the nature's song for the night. Jun and Sho's soft puffs of breathe created a harmony with it.
No one between them knew what to do next. Jun had his head hang low while playing with Sho's tie, and Sho watched it with amusement. When Jun gazed straight back to Sho's eyes through his bangs, he looked shy all of a sudden.
Maybe it was the serenity of the night, the soft clash of the sea in the shore, or the warmth of the proximity of their bodies against each other that made Sho initiate a kiss. Jun met his lips halfway and before he knew it, their lips were dancing in a languid rhythm.
Next moment, Jun had pulled Sho back inside and towards the bed. Things got a little bit faster as they discarded their outer layers. Suit jackets were carelessly thrown on the floor. Ties were loosened and removed while at least two buttons of dress shirts were unfastened along the way. Their kisses were getting hot and needy. Tongues caressed each other in the process, and lips were getting red and bruised with the intense kissing.
Jun pulled Sho closer than possible, trying to get much heat from the man. Upon reaching the bed, Jun was laid against the mattress with Sho hovering over the younger man. He ended up straddling Jun with one hands supporting his weight while the other roamed all over Jun's body. Sho's lips was spreading feather-like yet burning kisses in Jun's face, gentle and tingly. There was a sensual moan version of his name from Jun's mouth, sending a jolt in his body and going directly south.
Sho followed, alternating between trailing licks downwards and nipping at Jun's jaw until Sho settled in the nook of Jun's neck, leaving a mark. Jun arched his back, feeling Sho's firm caresses in his arms and sides. Jun writhed with want, responding to Sho's ministrations with demand and intensity. Jun's hands ended up at Sho's back, grabbing as much as he could. It was like they couldn't get enough of each other, or probably that was the actual reason.
Sho pulled back just enough space to land his forehead against Jun's since they needed a breather. Sho opened the eyes he didn't realized he had closed. Eye to eye, he and Jun stared at each other. Both eyes darkened and hazed with lust, want... But there was love.
Sho's hand went to Jun's neck. A simple caress was place until he felt a cold metal around Jun's neck. He smiled at it when he recognized it.
"You still wear it?" Sho mused at the necklace. It was the couple necklace they got for free in their three-day trip before.
Jun was confused for a moment until he realized which Sho was talking about. He looked at Sho's bare neck and frowned. "And you're not wearing it..."Jun commented along with a pout. Sho couldn't grasped a tinge of disappointment in Jun's voice when he said that.
"Well, Shojiro has it."Sho explained.
Jun blinked at Sho before his mouth formed in an 'o'. Sho couldn't tell whether Jun was mad or happy about it, so he further explained why he had Shojiro wear the necklace."When I thought I won't see you anymore, I let Shojiro wear it. I know it might be petty, but it just give me joy knowing the two of you have it," Sho paused, touching the pendant with his forefinger, "You two are my picture perfect." He said before kissing the side of Jun's mouth.
Jun gasped, looking touched, but the sudden shift of Jun’s facial expression a moment later puzzled Sho. It looked like he was overjoyed. It was as if Jun remembered something that he would like to say, but didn't know how. Under him, Jun became stiff, looking away. There was a sudden nervous shake in Jun's body, and Sho wondered if he did something wrong.
"Is something the matter?" Sho asked, sounding concerned. He sat up first to give Jun more room to breathe while still straddling the younger man.
There was a rosy blush in Jun's face. The moonlight seeping from the opened doors leading to the balcony made it clearer to be seen. Jun bit his lower lip, looking away for a moment before looking back again at Sho. He sat up too and adjusted himself so that his back was leaning against the headrest. Sho crawled closer, but maintained enough distance so that Jun wouldn't feel too crowded.
Jun puffed a breath out before saying, "I think we should get another pair of these," Jun suggested. Before Sho could speak, he continued as he held the pendant between his thumb and forefinger, "So that there's one for me, one for you, one for Shojiro, and...,"Jun paused. His eyes didn't falter from staring at Sho's eyes as he grabbed Sho's hand with his free hand, leading it to rest at his still flat tummy. "…another one for…." Jun let the sentence hang in there, trusting Sho to decipher what he meant.
Sho was lost for words that moment, trying to digest what Jun had said. At first, he couldn't understand it until Jun spoke to enlighten him, "There will be four of us in our picture perfect." Jun revealed. His smile was shy yet blooming in ways Sho couldn't explain.
It started to finally click in. Jun's shy expression, the stomach touching, the implications, and there was the number. Him, Jun, Shojiro and then...
Sho's eyes widen in surprise, his gaze shifting back and forth between Jun's face and his hands on Jun's tummy. A goofy and cheerful smile formed in his lips as it dawned to him what Jun actually meant.
"I'm not dreaming right?" Sho asked, still not believing.
Jun chuckled before shaking his head, laughing afterwards when Sho gaped with mouth open.
"We're going to have a child?" Sho asked. His voice was an octave higher due to the excitement. When Jun gave another nod for confirmation, Sho dived in to capture Jun's lips in a searing kiss. His arms instantly around Jun's waist while Jun's hands held to his shoulders. It maybe the joy and excitement, but each connection of the lips and swipe of the tongues intensified. Sho just felt like he was the luckiest person alive.
They paused for awhile to catch theirs breathes Sho's forehead was again with Jun. His hand was propped beside Jun's hips while the other was rubbing Jun's arms gently in an up and down motion.
Jun had his eyes closed already, his palm was flat against Sho's chest while his other hand thumbing Sho's lower lip.
Sho wanted to do this right, and so he voiced it out, "I want you."
Jun opened his eyes. There was a lovely smile tugging on his face. Jun leaned forward until his mouth touched Sho's ear. He whispered, "You don't have to ask."
Jun's body was lenient under Sho's eyes. It was an act of total submission, placing full trust in Sho to take the lead, and Sho did.
Sho took his time, savoring everything that was laid for his eyes to see. One by one, he discarded layers of their clothes while peppering Jun with small kisses. Their dress shirts were thrown on the floor, followed by their pants and underwear, leaving them fully naked in front of each other side. Underneath him, Jun was glowing, just like that time when he first arrived at the function hall earlier when he was trying to salvage their relationship. That night, it was a different glow though because it wasn't tainted anymore with gloominess but just pure bliss and happiness. Sho wanted that it would stay that way forever.
Sho leaned in, engaging Jun into a passionate kiss. Jun moaned as Sho's tongue explored his mouth. Sho's hands were travelling downwards. One found itself at the side of Jun's hip as a foundation for balance while the other caressed Jun's side .
"Ah, Sho~~~"Jun moaned, tilting his head to the side when Sho started sucking at the neck. His hands were grasping the sheets as his sensitivity heightened with Sho's face went lower until Sho's mouth found a nub, alternating between sucking and softly biting it. Sho's free hand then started pinching it softly before Sho's mouth gave it the same amount of attention it did to the other before. Jun's breathe turned erratic, gasping as Sho went lower. His body gave an excited tremble as he felt Sho's hand holding each of his thighs to part it open. There was a hitch in his breathe when Sho huffed a breath in the head of Jun's hardened cock.
Sho looked up, finding that Jun was looking at him, sweaty and flushed. Jun's eyes were once again clouded with lust, and the younger man's lips were slightly parted. The enticing sight sent a delicious jolt in Sho's body. In particular, his cock became harder and livelier.
Sho took Jun in his mouth in one go, making the other man moan out his name. He bobbed his head up and down, hallowing his cheeks before licking the tip like he would do to a lollipop while his hand pumped the rest that he couldn't cover.
Sho took a glance in Jun's eyes again, humming in satisfaction after knowing that Jun propped himself up by his elbows just to observe him. Of course, Sho gave him a show, swiping his tongue over the head that was already leaking with pre-cum as he stared at Jun intently.
"AH FUCK SHO-SAN!" Jun cursed wantonly as his elbows gave up.
Sho might have been angry with how Jun had addressed him, but it sounded so sexy in his ears. Sho let it slipped and just continued with his ministrations, taking Jun wholly till Jun's tip reach his throat. His hands were rubbing Jun's thighs before he held Jun's hips to stop the younger man thrusting in his mouth. He did allow Jun to grip his hair, letting Jun to drive his pace in taking Jun's cock inside his mouth. Sho took it without complains.
"So close..." Jun panted as a warning, and Sho let it, helping Jun in his pending orgasm. Seconds later, Jun released everything in Sho's mouth. The older man taking as much as he could until Jun's cock became placid, and Sho released it with a last lick in the tip.
When Sho looked up, Jun's forehead were full of sweat. His hair sticking in it, and Sho crawled up and reached out his hand, wiping the sweat and brushing away the bangs with the back of his palm. Sho and Jun got themselves in a lip lock, as Sho pressed his body weight against Jun's. Sho moved away moments later, earning a disapproving grunt from Jun. When Sho came back, he had a small bottle of lube at hand.
Jun rolled his eyes as if saying 'this wasn't our first', but Sho wanted to do it properly despite being impatient himself. He kissed Jun's forehead before positioning himself between Jun's legs. He lifted them up, uncapping the bottle as he coated his fingers with its contents.
Jun was looking at Sho in anticipation, biting his lower lip.
Sho traced the ring of muscles in his view before penetrating it with one finger. Jun's face contorted, showing uneasiness, and Sho tried to soothe it with kisses in Jun's body. Another finger was added and another, trying to loosen Jun's walls.
As Sho's fingers continued to thrust inside, Jun mewled especially when Sho hit the spot. One of his hand gripping at the sheets while the other gripped at Sho's shoulder. He opened his eyes he unconsciously closed earlier and looked straight at Sho. "Inside now..." Jun moaned. His own cock came back to life.
Sho removed his fingers and instantly coated his cock with lube. He leaned his face toward Jun's and kissed Jun to distract the younger man as he inserted his cock in Jun's hole slowly but deep till he was complete sheathe. There was a combined groan and moan that escaped their throat only to be swallowed in their heated kiss. Sho didn't move at first, allowing Jun to adjust. Sho took that time to explore Jun's mouth deeper, sucking on Jun's tongue. Sho broke the kiss as he trailed the saliva that flow from Jun's mouth until his mouth reached Jun's neck and sucked on it.
"Move..." Jun panted, and Sho complied.
It was a slow rhythm at first. Sho's hips were snapping back and forth, rocking their bodies in the process. Jun's hands found itself around Sho's shoulders as Jun nipped at Sho's ears. Sho's thrusts picked up its pace especially when Jun's started meeting his thrusts.
Sho could hear the sound of skin against skin and the fusion of his moans and groans with Jun's. He could smell the mixture of sweat and sex filled the room, but nothing could beat the feeling of having Jun in his arms as they moved their bodies in harmony. It wasn't their first yet it felt so new. That night, they were making love with a promise of tomorrow.
When Sho felt that his release was coming soon, Sho’s hand grabbed Jun’s cock between them, pumping it with the same rhythm as his thrust. Jun’s face hid itself against Sho's neck as Sho held the younger man closer.
When Sho was at his peak, Sho pulled away slight, just enough to see Jun who was thenstaring back at him.
"I love you..." Sho mouthed before kissing Jun passionately. After a few more thrusts, Sho released inside of Jun shortly followed by the younger man. Their bodies were shudderingfrom the shock of orgasm.
Feeling he could no longer hold himself up, Sho's body landed by Jun's side. They stilled for a moment, trying to catch their breathes. Sho mustered all the strenght he could and lifted Jun, so that at least half Jun's body was in lying on top of Sho.
There was a surprised yelp from Jun, but there wasn't any protest. He was rather enjoying the new position as he nuzzle his nose agaisnt Sho's neck. They lied there completely sated, baskedintheaftermathofmakinglove until Sho called, "Jun..."
"Hmm?" Jun hummed, looking up to Sho.
"You're beautiful..." Sho said.
"Please don't mention Nino's name after that, or this time I'll punch you in the guts." Jun reminded playfully.
Sho blinked, confused for a moment until he remembered the last time they made love. He realized his mistake back then, finally knowing the reason why Jun though he and Nino were back together. It was also why the younger man started avoiding him. Sho frowned. Although Jun said it in a light manner, trying to add humor, he couldn't help but feel guilty. His careless mumbling had cause him to almost lose Jun.
Sho felt Jun's fingers in his forehead, smoothing the frown in there. He had a genuined smile when he reassured Sho that, "It's in the past already. We're here now right?"
Sho nodded and kissed Jun's palm that his lips could reach. He said instead, "I love you, Jun..." He felt that he hadn't said it enough.
Jun's eyes were getting droopy then, but there was a contented mile as he mumbled sleepily, "I love you too..."
Jun finally succumbed to sleep, and Sho watched till he too fell sleepy. Sho kissed both of Jun's eyes and forehead before Sho followed his lover in dreamland.
It was early morning when Sho's eyes fluttered open. Jun's musky but sweet scent blasting his nostrils was the first thing he noticed after waking up with Jun's nape against his nose. He had his arms around Jun's waist, spooning the younger man. His palm and fingers were spread out on Jun's still flat tummy, acting like a protection.
"I'll protect all of you... you, your older brother and your daddy... I'll make sure of that..."Sho promised inwardly, hoping that the hand on top of Jun's tummy would deliver the message to the small bundle of joy growing inside of Jun's tummy.
Sho could hear Jun's calm breathing. It was an indication that the younger man was still soundly asleep. It would have been perfect if Jun was facing him. He could spend that moment by watching Jun while still asleep. It might be creepy, but Sho was betting to himself that it would be one of his favorite past time in the morning especially if he woke up first than the latter. Nevertheless, their position was still satisfying. Jun's was warm against him, and Sho couldn't ask for more. It was comfortable, and it just felt right.
Sho could have fall asleep again as minutes passed by. The chirping birds outside and the soft rush of the sea blended with Jun's small puffs of breathe, acting as his morning lullaby. But he felt Jun shifting in his arms, making him alert and worried that he might have woken his lover accidentally. Jun turned around with closed eyes, and Sho thought Jun was still asleep until the latter's eyes opened.
Jun's eyes were laden with sleepiness, but his voice was full of mirth when he gave a remark despite doing so in a whisper, "You weren't snoring..."
It sounded like it was Jun's explanation as of why he was woken up. Sho showed his amusement with a laugh. Instead of saying a retort, he just pecked Jun's lips as he tightened his hold around Jun's case.
Jun's eyes closed at the contact automatically. A small beautiful smile gracing his lips, and Sho found everything about Jun more exquisite than ever. The soft glow of the morning light added its flare to that beauty.
Everything felt blissful then. Everything just felt right as it clicked to its places in Sho's life. He had Jun in his arms, a new family member to welcome, and precious moments to cherish forever. All of those were Sho's picture perfect despite the blurs and mishaps that had and could happen.
(That also included Jun suddenly grasping out of Sho's hold to run towards the bathroom in favor of throwing up. Based on his experience with Yuka before, Morning sickness could be nasty, and there were also Jun’s constant changes of mood to mind later on for sure.)
Sho doesn't mind. Pictures aren't perfect. People aren't too. They just need to open their hearts to focus on what is important.
It's love...
Fin.
Chapter 9 | Chapter 10 | Epilogue------------------------------------------
Additional notes from the author:
I CAN’T BELIEVE I ACTUALLY FINISH THIS! I ACTUALLY DID IT, AND FOR THE RECORD IT ONLY TOOK ME THREE MONTHS TO FINISH A CHAPTERED FIC!!! GAAAAH!
Sorry about the caps-lock abuse. It’s just that this is the first time I achieve such feat considering I have been writing fics since 2007. Although, this isn’t the first time I have finished a chaptered fic (and I can tell you that those fics I finished can only be counted with one hand. OTL), but doing it in 3 months (almost four if you counted the times I was saving the first two chapters) is really, really surprising for me.
This particular chapter is quite hard for me honestly. It has taken me weeks before I'm able to finish it. Maybe deep inside, I don't want to let go of this yet. LOL~~~ Things might be all over the place within this chapter (especially the smut part), but I hope it is fitting end to this story.
I won’t say anything more, but to express my deepest gratitude to all of you who have been with me from start till finish. I couldn’t have accomplished all of this without you, wonderful readers. Thank you! I hope you have enjoyed reading it till the end. I also wish that you learned something from this even if I did this out of pure entertainment. Thanks again.
Special thanks to my confidants who kept motivating me to continue writing this: (1) akhikaru, (2) octavialao, (3) neenomeow, and (4) mcfib29. If they weren’t there, I might have stopped in the middle of all of this.
Thanks again for tuning in. Comments are wholeheartedly accepted. Please do tell me too what part of the story you like, or what aspect of this story the hook you in. Thank you!
P.S. You see the ‘Epilogue’ there? You know what it means ne? Jya, matta ne! :3