Heaven's BBS | ~Video~

[takenwithhim]

From: Sousuke Yamazaki
When: Early October

[It’s rare that he posts to the BBS; Sousuke’s quiet nature and sometimes-over-focus kind of leads to that little problem. Content to dwell with his own life and his own small circle of friends and duties. But sometimes, the private life just doesn’t cut it. Especially when said private life is the entire reason for breaking his silence and going outside that small circle.

The video feed clicks on with a quiet sound, light blazing from the screen for a second until it adjusts to the scenery. It’s soon obvious he’s alone. Considering the presence of a black jacket barely resting at the peripheral of the video’s frame, it’s likely he’s holding the screen to his side. Deliberately not pointing the feed at himself. Instead, there’s a lovely shot of a quiet patch of natural garden, complete with trickling spring, breezing of clear air, and the ever-present drizzle of pink sakura petals from the surrounding grove Eros’ castle temple is renowned for.


There’s a moment of silence, semi-awkward on his end, before Sousuke finally outs with it. His tone’s calm, musing.]

Can a god and a shinki be more than god and shinki? [A measure before adding in a lower voice.] Or will it make problems between them?

[Yeah, it’s vague, he knows. The nature of god and shinki is a complex relationship. But Sousuke’s not honest enough with his softer emotions and being open to other people to outright ask the serious/embarrassing question:

What happens if you find yourself attracted to your own god?]

Comments

[takenwithhim]

[He’s a romantic fairy tale prince, isn’t he. Sousuke won’t ride him too hard for it, but it wouldn’t be him if he didn’t tease Rin at least a little. Still, it has been a draining few days, keeping all this bottled inside and now getting all of that rushing out in a relieved flow. That the result is Rin being overstimulated to his touch, however, is an interesting side effect. He’s going to have to keep that in mind, though it’s almost completely doubtful he’ll ever want to go so long without Rin again. Without his words, so lively and warm he can’t help but want to hear them over and over, his touch, so deliberate and playful that maps out his skin and body and admires it all at the same time. Rin’s always been different from him, from patiently watching over him to expression all his passion in his determination to teach Sousuke how to swim and arguing with him over their differing opinions. Never rude, never disrespectful. Rin’s far more physically affectionate than Sousuke, but that’s simply part of his charm… a perfect facet of his best friend.

Something Sousuke will never hope to change between them. The embrace is a culmination of so many things, from affection to protectiveness to simple enjoyment of having Rin close like this. He supports his boyfriend as he leans his full weight into his chest, arm fitting around Rin’s shoulder in a smooth motion. This person who’s become more than a partner, more than a companion… someone who’s become his best friend. The person he feels the most comfortable around. The person who understands him the best. For everything Rin’s gone through in this world, he remains firmly resolute to his own path and rhythm. He’s the one person Sousuke finds himself never wanting to fail. The one person he wants to be with… The strongest person Sousuke knows.

Lips find his neck and Sousuke shivers at the gentle touch, but a soft, tender smile appears when the answer breathes over his skin. Warm and soft.

Without further question, the larger swimmer nods and moves his body, taking time so Rin knows where he’s going. An arm around his boyfriend’s neck and shoulder, legs bending to brace himself as he fits his other arm behind Rin’s knees. The question might have been teasing, but once Rin’s affirmed his choice, the answer and result flow like second nature. With a little pull and nudge, he has the other swimmer lean back and drop, falling into Sousuke’s strong arms as he swiftly stands and pulls, scooping Rin into a bridal carry. Arms wrapped around his shoulders and tucked under his folded knees, drawing him close to his chest.

His best friend. The most important person in Sousuke’s world.]

Let’s go.

[And steps forward, moving to the bedroom.]

[sharkmaid]

[Didn't expect him to actually go through with picking him up... but this very well could be the first and only time Rin will let this happen, so might as well enjoy it while it lasts. Anyway, there's no one around to see them, so what's the harm in being hoisted up and carried away at least once? He'll probably look back on this later and laugh. Or cry. Or punch Sousuke in the arm once he gets over this fluttering feeling in his chest. Until then, he'll enjoy the moment and let himself be carried away with it... figuratively and literally.

That isn't to say he's used to this though and as soon as his feet leave the ground he's at a loss with where to put his arms. He flails a bit, indecisive between his lap, his sides, his lap again... Ultimately he goes for the most obvious place: around Sousuke's neck. It's an awkward, sideways embrace, but it's stable and comfortable... and he has all the freedom in the world to rest his chin on his elbow so the other swimmer won't have to watch him starting to furiously blush like some helpless maiden. Yeah, yeah, he's letting you do this, but don't get used to it!]

... You agreed so easily.

[he mutters, thumb absently brushing at the bit of skin he was teasing at before.]

Don't tell me you've been wanting to carry me like this all along.

[takenwithhim]

[Hey, it’s not like the chance to pick Rin up comes along so freely so regularly. Sousuke’s thrown the other teen over his shoulder or twice before (not that Rin’s that much smaller or lighter than him) and carted him off to get dumped in the pool or just swung around for a bit. But that always gives Rin prime access to smack him on the back or punch him in the butt. This… this is probably the only time Sousuke’s going to get the chance to pick Rin up like this. So of course he takes it. especially because Rin invited him to.

Whatever punches or pouts or embarrassment comes later, he’ll deal with it. Obviously point out that Rin asked for it, but whatever.

Sousuke tugs his head back, expecting the flail of arms, and then ducks his head forward to try and loop one of Rin’s arms around his neck. Jeeze, for a romantic guy, he has no clue. Something they’ve established plenty of times already since they started, well, all of this. As Rin’s arm slips around his neck in that strange, sideways embrace, he leans up a bit, straightening his neck and rounding his shoulders to get comfortable. Yeah, he knows Rin’s flushing as red as a tomato. He’ll at least be nice enough not to point it out.]

You said you wanted me to.

[A quiet murmur without hesitation. Don’t blame this on him, bae. You had all the opportunity not to make this literal. Maybe you’re the one that’s secretly wanted this.

Sousuke shivers a little as that thumb rubs along the still-tender area and he focuses on moving down the hall with his arms loaded.]

All right, I won’t tell you.

[sharkmaid]

Yeah, but I didn’t think you’d actually go through with it.

[So what if he secretly wanted this? It’s innocent, isn’t it? At least he’s not asking for piggyback rides. ... It is nice though, way nicer than he would have expected, and halfway up the stairs he ends up shutting his eyes, feeling about ready to drift off to sleep. Down the hall and he heaves a quiet sigh, shoulders rising, chest warm, arms still secured where they belong around Sousuke’s neck. Every step matches up with his heartbeat. One, two, three... Down this same hall they wandered down together so many months ago, Sousuke in his legskins and Rin trying his hardest not to dissolve into more tears. The same hall they walk through together every morning, every night, amidst paintings of seascapes and far away lands they’ll never see. ... Briefly he thinks about wanting to take Sousuke away from here overnight. He wants to explore the world, escape responsibility, introduce his best friend to the life he’s been missing outside these castle walls.

I promised I’d wait for you... There’s so many things I want you to see.

Lifting his head, Rin tightens his embrace just a touch. He is here. Breathing, speaking, alive. ... He almost wants to never let go.]

You’re impossible. [he mutters softly again, this time pushing his hand up the back of Sousuke’s neck to rake his fingers through his hair. He doesn’t want to let go.] ... Next time, I’m carrying you.

[takenwithhim]

Liar.

[Rin knows him too well to think such a comment had no chance of getting acted upon. Sousuke’s pretty sure his best friend’s got a secret little desire to be picked up and carried like a bride (or a princess), but he’s not about to risk getting a Hell’s Pinch with Rin’s hands so close to his neck and chest. So long as he’s the only one that gets to pick Rin up like this, however… Sousuke glances down once they reach the top of the stairs and can’t help a tender smile when he sees the other boy’s eyes closed. Rin has a pretty sleeping face; he looks so peaceful and beautiful at the same time, none of the day’s cockiness or excitement shining bright or those clouded moments of concern. It’s a brief moment (because Sousuke doesn’t get to watch him sleep for long) where his best friend’s simply at rest. Still for once. The larger boy keeps quiet, willing to let Rin sleep if he really ends up doing so. Heck, he’ll wander the halls (maybe not on purpose) to lull him in his slumber if it happens that way…

This hallway brings back memories for him as well. He’ll never forget the first time he saw it, following behind a young man he didn’t know but had just met and accepted as his partner. Knowing there were tears and heaviness hidden where he couldn’t see “behind” Rin’s strong back. The cling of his legskins and the cool air on his naked upper body felt different inside, the plush carpet soothing beneath his bare feet. But that remains the only really heavy memory of this hall. The rest are made of up morning conversations, yelling each other’s names during a race, quiet murmurs as they move to their room for the night. Noting the paintings on the wall, pausing to look at the sakura petals through the arching windows, talking about what if’s and wonders.

What would we be like if we met in another place under different circumstances? Would we be like this? Or would we be how you remember us…

Sousuke breaks from his thoughts as the arms around his neck tighten and he glances down at Rin again, teal eyes gentle, but a little deep from the flow of his mind. The same tender smile returns to his face at the words, accepting his “impossibility” with a casual dip of his head. Rin’s not one to talk about being impossible. But he spares the redhead the comment, since those fingers are raking through the short crop of his hair up the back of his head. It brings a shiver to his spine again.

But then he has to go and say that.]

Bphht--! Hahaha!

[… don’t kill him, please?]

[sharkmaid]

[Part of him wants to tell Sousuke to keep walking and take the more "scenic" route to their bedroom, just so he can enjoy being carried for a few minutes longer, but he's feeling forgiving and chooses to behave. No kicking, no jostling around. Just a nice quiet walk... where he's being carried bridal style with his hand in his best friend's hair and wow this would probably look stupid to anyone peeking in from the outside. Well, Gou always did say mushy feelings have a tendency to make people do stupid things.

Like suggesting to pick up his much taller, much heavier and dumb best friend.

Rin frowns deeply before the laughter even starts, expecting it straight away, then without hesitation reaches around with both hands to grab either side of Sousuke's face, palms squishing his cheeks together as if that'll get him to stop.

Quit ruining the moment!]

Oi, I'm serious! It wouldn't be hard, you know! I've carried way heavier than you!

[takenwithhim]

[If anyone wants to try climbing up a story or two and peek in through the window of a sprawling castle with only two people living inside it on the off chance of spotting them the moment they walk by… good luck. Sousuke also has that little urge to simply keep walking. It’s nice to carry Rin around, for both the immediate comfort and enjoyment and the latter ammo for future teasing. But also… that hand in his hair… If Rin keeps doing that stroking, rubbing, scratching thing, heck, Sousuke’ll keep walking until his legs fall off. He gently tightens his grip on Rin’s shoulders, holding him a bit closer. Romantic…

You know, before he starts laughing, that is.

Really, sometimes his best friend could be such a dork. Sure, he’s not doubting it! Sousuke’s seen Rin bench some pretty heavy loads and he’s got no doubts the other athlete could shove him or tackle him around if he wants to. But the very idea of Rin carrying him around bridal style? Hah! Yeah right. (And this has nothing to do with the fact Sousuke’d be utterly mortified to be in such an embarrassing position.)

Smack! And now he’s doing a fish face, some smothered laughter coming out in little putts. This is not a flattering face at all. Least it quells his laughter pretty quickly. And ruin the moment? Rin, you’re just making another moment right here! Besides, you already ruined it by thinking out loud about carrying him, right?]

On the bench, yes. Not across the room or up the stairs.

[sharkmaid]

[Hmph. He knew picking a dog for his shinki form was a good move. Not that he knew Sousuke would enjoy the whole head petting thing before, but, you know... he would've guessed it! Such a lazy guy. Rin won't be surprised if he's thinking about taking a nap right now in the middle of this hallway. Still, even with that in mind, Rin doesn't let up on his ministrations, even holds on a little tighter when Sousuke does so around his shoulders--

But someone has to once again ruin a perfectly romantic moment! Yes, it's Sousuke's fault and Rin won't hear another word about it!

Squish squish. That's right, fish face, take that! With an arrogant, angry smirk, Rin pinches his best friend's cheeks this time, giving them a couple tugs.]

I'm gonna make you eat those words. Take a look here!

[He'll only stop tugging with one hand so he can drop his arm and flex it right in front of Sousuke's face. Look at these biceps! These triceps! There's no way he worked to get them this toned and perfect so he can just bench press!]

It'll be easy.

[takenwithhim]

[Oh so you did pick his form! He knew it! (Actually he knows Rin had no choice in the matter.) But it’s impossible to deny those fingers in his hair don’t end up relaxing him and making him want to feel more. He’s dozed off plenty of times with his head in his best friend’s lap, those fingers wandering through his hair, book flopped open on his chest like a deflated tent. A nap would be nice, if he weren’t carrying the most precious/prized load in his arms. To the bedroom, to note, but still, carrying none the less.

(Actually, they’ve probably passed the bedroom by now; Sousuke’s just wandering.)

Still Rin’s fault for ruining the mood with his boast. Can’t argue with that one, shark boy. You piped up first.

And now it’s gotten him in trouble with these hands squishing his face into these undignified expressions. From fish faces to… oh hell, not the—tug. Sousuke glowers in a pathetic way with his lower face half stretched out. So terrifying. But seriously, ow… easy on his cheeks, Rin. And don’t pinch too hard; he might drop you!

Oh, cheek relief. Sousuke blinks at the sudden shove, twitching his head back as Rin jams his arm right in front of his face. He looks (longer and more intently than he should) at the swell of bicep and triceps bulging under Rin’s lighter skin. Damn… That’s as attractive as always. He still doesn’t give in though.

Though he does lean forward and lazily bite the top of Rin’s bicep, teeth and lips molding to the curve of muscle for a moment before bite turns to retreating lick and kiss. Don’t think he doesn’t know how to get you fired up, babe.]

I’m tempted to let you try…

[sharkmaid]

[Here you go calling him the most precious/prized load while wanting to drop him right onto his ass at the same time. So romantic. So precious. He'd pinch you more for that if he could read minds.

But he does ease up on the pinching to make his point and for a moment it does seem to be... working? Or maybe Sousuke's humoring him. Wouldn't put it past him since they kind of are having another stupid argument. If he can even call it that. Anyway, he'll keep at it, clenching his hand into a fist so he can get the most out of his muscles, but a few more seconds in he starts to think this isn't producing the effect he wants. Oi, what's that look for? And--

--did you just bite him.

The skin beneath Sousuke's teeth tightens, muscles reflexively ready to yank his arm back out of reach, but out of pure curiosity they don't follow through. He'll never know if he's going to regret that or not, not when tongue and lips replace teeth and briefly wipe his mind clean. Is his spine tickling? Did his heart just drop straight into his belly? Why is it hot...

Words, Rin, find some words.]

Um... [Eloquent. Time to swallow his own tongue and hope it stays down. Or at least cross his arms and look away, fingers rubbing at the warmer, now damp patch of skin on his bicep to force the tingling sensation to subside.] Not until you finish what you started, idiot.

[... Speaking of which.]

Oi. Didn't you pass the bedroom already?

[takenwithhim]

[So? You’re just jealous he’s unconsciously (and in denial) more a romantic than you are, Mr. Romantic. But no, he’d never drop you on your ass unless you asked for it. Really hard. And there was a bed or a pool under you. Pinching him isn’t going to help matters either, he’ll have you know.

At least he gets a reprieve from the pinching and he can focus on other things. Like admiring that flexing arm in front of him and deciding to dig his own grave deeper. Maybe it wasn’t smart to lean forward and take a bite out of Rin’s bicep, but it seriously had been his knee-jerk reaction. A kiss, honestly, had been the first thing on his mind, but since when did they like to be complacent? Keeping Rin on his toes and flustering him is Sousuke’s duty as Rin’s best friend, remember? So, there’s no regret when his teeth scrape skin and his tongue and lips do an insincere apology afterwards.

Yep, bitten. Right on the bicep and leaving it glistening and warm after the retreat.

Sousuke traces his tongue between his teeth, hidden behind his lips. The sensation of Rin’s skin tightening and his muscle bulging against his teeth and lips plays back through his flesh. Firm and hot, a perfect repeat of what he sees all the time. Rin’s the one that does most of the biting between them, but this is one more time where Sousuke can see the appeal of the action. The little claim mark glowing on Rin’s skin is… nice.

He expects the reaction (one of a few, actually). Averted eyes, crossed arms, adjusting his balance so they don’t topple and the flush on his face. Sousuke arches a brow at the comment though. Finish what he started? Does he mean biting him more or keep carrying him to the room?

… which, ugh. He flat faces. Yes, they’ve probably already passed it. Maybe a billion times by now.]

Urusei. I’m distracted.

[sharkmaid]

[As if he can out-romance Rin! (Actually, he's been doing a very good job of it so far and it's the most irritating thing in the world, but never mind all that.) He'll find a way to get his revenge later, so be doubly prepared for it!

Maybe it'll involve biting. Or kissing. Or more face pinching because that seems to be the more comfortable (albeit boring) option. Whatever he chooses, he seems to have all the time in the world to decide at the rate they're going, pacing down this same hallway the second... or third time around. Truthfully, he's gotten pretty distracted himself.

Sighing, Rin leans back again into Sousuke's chest, head resting against his shoulder as his eyes fall shut.]

Do you need to stop and ask for directions?

[Darling?]

[takenwithhim]

[(You said it.) Sousuke’ll probably not be ready for any revenge when it comes to romantic things. Rin’d probably have to make it obvious, like tell him they’re going out to dinner or something. Emphasize “candlelight” or something. That way he’ll know to put on a nice dressy casual rather than showing up in jeans and a white tank top. Bare arms and all that.

Biting, huh. Well he might prepare for that. Considering he’s already gotten more than a few of those dotted-line U’s on his body in the past. Kissing, that’s… Bring it on. He’ll return it so good, you’re head’ll spin! (Once the momentary surprise wears off.) Seriously, more face pinching? You’re gonna pull his cheeks off one day! Sheesh, what a variety of payments for one simple little nip of that beefcake being offered to him.

See if he ever does that again. (He will. No doubt about it.)

Sousuke blinks at the bump of head against his shoulder and glances down. A brow quirks. Rin’s eyes are closed. Is he really going to fall asleep like this? … Probably isn’t putting it past him. Though he’s gotta go and ask that question next.] Hmph. [Momentary grump above him.

But nothing else. See, he can behave.]

No. I’ll find it on the next pass.

[Babe.]

[sharkmaid]

[Oh, he'll do more than just a romantic dinner. Besides, they've already had a romantic dinner! I-if that last one even counted. Point is, you don't have to tell him what to do when he's already the master of romance! Just you wait. He'll make your head spin so fast it'll send you toppling over into a sakura filled pool!

He'll let the momentary grump stick around for a bit. Heck, he'll even give Sousuke a minute of quiet to focus on finding his way. ... At least until he gets too comfortable where he is, enjoying the way that heartbeat on his back moves interchangeably with Sousuke's footsteps, how his chest rises and falls against his shoulder, the phantom sensation of teeth lingering on his arm--

--After another minute, Rin looks up again, this time with eyes lidded and lazy.

He's still warm.]

Hurry up.

[Not exactly nagging. More like... persuading.]

[takenwithhim]

[Oy. Don’t go crazy here. Sousuke’s still Sousuke. He’ll always prefer a quiet night at home on the couch, sitting next to Rin, probably teasing him or having an “argument” over whose dinner was the healthier. But he knows Rin likes those kinds of outings, being around other people. So he acquiesces and goes. Can’t deny it’s always interesting to see what Rin’s going to plan or what he expects once they get there. Sure, the Master of Romance. Send him into a sakura-filled pool and he’ll haul you right in after him by the ankle.

Still, right now, he’s got to focus on the hallway and getting to their room. It’d been nice to go wandering without Rin pointing out the obvious, but he doesn’t have that luxury anymore. Ugh. He’s not lost! He just happened to take a wrong turn. Anyone could make that mistake. At least he’s considerate enough not to pick up his steps and go running around. Come on, he’s lived in this castle for almost a year now. If not more. Finding his way around should be simple.

Should be.

Hurry up.

Shit. He hears the words, but understands what’s lying beneath them. It drives a rush clean up his spine and Sousuke narrows his eyes, determination pushing aside the frustration. Okay, now he’s going to make some extra attempts to locate th--]

Oh.

[There they go. Their room. The same big doors rising in front of them they’ve taken so many times before. Sousuke balances himself and hikes a leg up at the knee, catching the handle under the bare dent of his kneecap, and pushes as he drops his leg. The latch gives and he catches the door with the base of his heel in one motion, wedging the door open in a practiced ease. Fancy movements, hm. Especially since he’s carrying around another teenager.]

Bed?

[sharkmaid]

[Are you really going to complain when he’s offering to spoil you? Just take it and let it happen! You know, whenever it actually happens. ... There’s another thing he’s slowly starting to learn about himself in all this. How fast he wants to go, all the things he wants to do, the points he needs to prove. All to keep Sousuke beside him. If his best friend remembered anything of the past, he’d probably find all this out of place. After all, Rin never stays in one place for long, easily bored and itching to find success on a higher level. Now here he is, spending most, it not all of his time with Sousuke practically attached at the hip. Rin was never so heartless to never miss his loved ones, but this degree of affection... It’s new. Almost scary. He’s worried he’s becoming too reliant, too needy, too overbearing.

He thinks all this as he once again absentmindedly brushes his thumb along the inside of his forearm. It still tingles without sign of letting up. He’s so distracted that by the time Sousuke finally finds their room he doesn’t even acknowledge it, doesn’t even look up to congratulate him on a search well done. Once there’s some jostling beneath him though, Rin does catch on and out of instinct wraps his arms around his best friend’s neck again so he won’t go toppling out of his hold. Idiot. Could’ve asked him to reach out and open it himself. Or even put him down for a second.

... Though now that he thinks about it, once the door swings open and their bedroom comes into clear view, there’s some... interesting implications here. Being bridal carried around, about to be carried over a threshold– He nearly chokes on his own air. Stupid thought. Out of all things!

Anyway. There’s not many options for them once they get inside. Experience tells him to nod and go with what’s familiar. Nothing complicated or fancy there. Which is... ok. Not particularly exciting, but ok. Not wanting to seem indecisive though, Rin buys some time for himself, grabbing at the other teen’s face so he can pull him in for a kiss. Straightforward to start. Not much in the way of movement or romance. Inexperienced. But then his shoulders relax and so does his mouth, lips parting so he can pull back, inch back in... start over slower and tender with a few experimental kisses. Sometimes it’s simple, sometimes it’s a little deep. Once or twice he pauses just to feel the warm air between them.

He comes up with an answer without much thought.]

Shower.

[takenwithhim]

[No more than you whine when he’s doing the spoiling. Only his is with far less flushing and sputtering and tsundering. But he can’t deny the same feelings Rin has coursing through him. There’s a pang of selfishness that demands to be satisfied when it comes to Rin. A fleck of jade when he sees him laughing and smiling with someone else. It’s stupid, he knows, but he can’t help it. And now they’re going to be boyfriends. Is this like Rin? He doesn’t know, he probably won’t ever know, but there’s nothing that strikes Sousuke as odd about Rin’s actions. After all, he really doesn’t gather that the two of them were dating back when he was alive. So this is… new, right? Yet each time Rin displays this hidden desire to stay beside him, to linger, it brings a stupid little grin on the inside. They do spend a lot of time together; that much is obvious. But Sousuke can’t bring himself to dislike it. Having Rin’s attention and affection, complete and unshared… It’s probably a little unsettling if he looked at it clearly.

Not that it’s stopping them. The door to their bedroom opens, the familiar sight of the towering window, the large, single bed they share each night, their personal affects resting here and there around the room. Elements that scream “us” to anyone who might happen to see. Sousuke grunts slightly as an arm wraps around his neck, but he quickly catches his balance and adjusts his hold. Like hell is he going to drop Rin after coming this far with him. Besides, the door’s open. He didn’t need to interrupt his best friend’s daydreaming for something as simple as that. Or risk Rin unbalancing them…

Excuse you!!! What kind of marriage wedding thoughts are you thinking about?! And why are you not sharing with the rest of the class?!]

Mhn- [Any further thought’s ground to a halt as hands catch hold of his face and he’s pulled down. Lips find lips, a tender exchange of warm flesh and Rin’s unique taste glossing over his mouth. Sousuke leans forward, pressing into the connection without hesitation. Tongue peeking between the rims of his mouth, slicking over the small dip of Rin’s cupid’s bow. Candid, intimate, simple. If Rin’s inexperienced, Sousuke’s either the same or worse. Thought it’s not the first time they’ve kissed. There are no teeth clicking, awkward trying to find the best fit and position… It feels good. And there’s more. The slight separation instead heralds another kiss, and another, soft and experimental. His lips burn and a faint pink touches under his eyes. Though… he brings his steps to a halt, unwilling to walk with eyes closed and sorely distracted even through their room.

And then, his answer. A dark brow arches for a second. Then settles with a gentle smile curving into the shared kiss.] Romantic… [And heads for the bathroom. Eyes glancing up every now and then, keeping pace and location until he’s standing outside the bathroom door. Only then does he give his arms a slight dip.] Hold onto me. I’m gonna put you down.

[sharkmaid]

[It's difficult to ignore those phantom flecks of jealousy gripping at the edges of his heart. When they're together, when they're alone, when Rin's eyes wander without him noticing. Is this like Sousuke? Has he always harbored those feelings before they arrived here, before they started dating? He thought about calling him out on it once or twice. Just to ask, just to make sure there's nothing he needs to be concerned with. And yet... He also doesn't want it to stop. Because it means Sousuke wants him, all of him. Attention, affection, time and effort. Maybe he's unworthy of all of it, maybe he's not. But he has it, unshared and unadulterated. So there's no room for complaint.

As if he'd share those wedding thoughts with you, you big dumby! Don't get so excited!

Any hint of anxiety in him fades away once Sousuke reciprocates (quicker and more naturally than he would have anticipated, by the way), though it's quick to flutter back to life again once he revisits his response. Ah... Did he actually suggest the shower? Why did he suggest the shower? So far their experiences in the same tub together haven't been romantic, you know! But he's already being whisked away and why are you ok with this!?]

Huh? Oh...

[Right. Gotta put him down at some point. Biting his lip, Rin does as he's told while shifting his weight around so his legs can straighten out towards the floor. He'll only keep his arms around Sousuke another second longer before lifting them up over his head in a lazy stretch, already making his way into the bathroom himself.]

Hn, I had a lazy day today. Gotta make up for it tomorrow before my body softens up. [He's already got his arms crossed over his body to start tugging his shirt off from the lower hem, back turned to his shinki as it slowly lifts up over his waist and shoulder blades, muscle and bone taut against his skin.]

[takenwithhim]

[Sousuke knows in the back of his mind Rin can feel those little flickers of jade; like normal, it bothers him if he ever thinks about it for a moment. But there’s nothing he can do about it. He’s learned by now it’s easier, healthier, better, for him—for them—if he just ignores the reality and focuses on the rest of it. Rin hardly ever capitalizes on that element of their relationship as god and shinki and Sousuke both respects and appreciates his recalcitrance about it so much, he’s resigned himself to silently accept it for what it is between them. It’s not like he’s able to stop the feelings either. Seeing Rin’s eyes wander when he’s with him sends a little jolt through the larger swimmer. Sometimes he wonders if Rin feels the same when the same thing inevitably happens in reverse. He most likely does… Sousuke at least likes to think he does… but they obviously don’t bother talking about it, so it’s fine. After all, they’re both teenage boys with libidos. And only an idiot would say they’re unattractive. He’s happy with the attention and affection he gets from Rin; is he really deserving to demand more?

Oy! Who’re you calling a big dumby, chibi baka?! You’re the one that gets excited about… everything!

The kiss parts with the gentlest of ‘smacks’ as their lips separate, trailing the vapors of their breaths twining betwixt their mouths. It’s a soft thrill, knowing this simple action shares so much between them. From their taste to their breath to their warmth to their words… It’s a mixture of them shared evenly. But, parted as they are, Sousuke recognizes the subtle flurry of Rin’s mind kicking up over his answer. Hn, some things never change no matter what the circumstances. Yes, he’s going to the shower. Never said anything about getting one together, you know. Maybe he just assumes you’re talking about getting one like they normally do; one of them barely visible through the foggy glass while the other leans against the sink counter preparing for the day or getting ready for his turn under the water.

He doesn’t trust Rin’s legs enough to suddenly drop him down. After all, he’s been carrying him bridal style for… a while. But it doesn’t seem like Rin has any trouble, getting his footing without issue and heading into the bathroom with a lazy stretch of arms over his head. Sousuke follows him through the doorway, letting his arms drop by his side and swinging them slightly to work some blood back into his forearms and fingers.]

Physically, at least. [Considering Rin was probably doing mental explosions listening to Sousuke ask for advice about “liking your god” over the network. Not to mention the eventual confessions and decisions it led them to making. Sousuke’s thoughts trail off and he finds himself staring, mouth parted a fraction, as Rin pulls off his shirt. Peeling from his back, exposing the angles of his pelvis peeking over the hem of his pants like always, and then the span of a muscular back with lines and definitions toned and streamlined to an athletic perfection, and finally the shapely angles of Rin’s wing bones pressing and flexing beneath his fair skin, the entirety of his back a sculpture Sousuke’ll never not be able to marvel at whenever he sees it.]

… show off …

[Ignore his momentarily husky breath.]

[sharkmaid]

[Is he deserving to demand more? Well, Rin won't stop him if he does. But of course it's just not like his selfless idiot of a best friend to think about his own needs first, so he'll have to give more when he feels like it. Nothing to complain about there on Sousuke's end, right?

Chibi baka?? He'll show you chibi in a second here, jerk.

As for current implications... Oh, come on. As if Rin could be implying anything but grabbing a shower together in their current state. There's hardly anything innocent or normal about this situation! At least not yet. N-not saying he wants to make it normal... Or does he. Anyway! They're already here and he's already undressing, so you'd better catch up! "Romantic" means doing things together, not standing around outside waiting your turn in a fog of warm mist. So off his shirt goes, finally slipping up off his head before he gives his hair a good shake to straighten every strand back into place. At least this part is normal. Undressing in front of each other.

The staring bit though... not so much.

And, yes, he knows Sousuke's staring, not just because he can see him doing it from the vanity mirror but also because he has eyes in the back of his head.

Flipping his shirt right side out again, Rin tilts his head in question from over his shoulder. Show off? All he did was remove his shirt. Unless... he thought-- Ah. Right. Implications. Maybe he has overworked his brain a little too much today if he's not picking up on this stuff right off the bat like a god of love should. He doesn't say anything at first, too embarrassed by his cluelessness to come up with anything smart, fingers worrying at the faint wrinkles in his shirt. Show off...

Is that what you want to see?

He'll ignore the huskiness in your voice if you ignore the sudden seductive dip in his.]

Problem? [he asks, tilting his head to the opposite side in a purposeful, teasing gesture, the light dusting of pink beneath his eyes almost betraying the stoic expression on his face. Rin shifts weight from one foot to the other while he's at it, because... maybe that accentuates one body part better than another? Hard to say when he can't see himself. Even harder to say when he has next to no experience with flirting.]

[takenwithhim]

[Why would he think about his own needs when it’s far more instinctive to think about Rin’s? Once his hapless romantic of a best friend is secure, then he can worry about himself. Sousuke’s not the one that runs through life at a breakneck speed looking for cherry blossoms in pools and the next exciting thing. Someone’s got to make sure he stays safe, right?

And you show him “chibi” every time he finds you looking at his chin, squirt.

Sousuke might’ve bothered with shucking off his shirt if he weren’t so distracted with Rin’s figure glowing at him in the bathroom light. So many times he’s seen him with upper body bare. From the swimming pool to the weight machines to sparring in the gardens to flopping into bed at night, he should be practically immune to this boy’s charms. But… he’s not. Still helplessly enthralled, and even worse so now that they’re going to be dating, apparently. Teal eyes flick up to the shaking strands of maroon, such rich and lush curves swinging with the simple action as they fall back into perfect place. Unconsciously, frustratingly modelesque without bothering to try. But it can’t be helped; this is the guy he’s fallen for. Why would anything he does not randomly grab Sousuke’s attention?

He doesn’t even recognize he’s breathed those two words for a few seconds. There’s a quiet flip and snap as Rin’s shirt goes right side out and that’s enough to break his momentary stupor. Sousuke blinks once and gives his head a small twitch backwards, calling himself into place again. Calm down, get his head out of the clouds, the bathroom’s not even steaming yet, and he needs to focus on… on… something. Like his own clothes maybe?

Or at least that had been the plan. Before someone’s voice comes right over his shoulder and Sousuke finds himself listening to a single word purred out in a soft, seductive tone. Has he ever heard Rin use such a tone before? Once or twice, maybe? Accidentally? But this one’s on purpose. Teal eyes lift, gazing directly at the other swimmer across from him. Watching that purposeful tilt of his head, knowing he’s teasing him despite that pink flush fluttering beneath his eyes. Rin always pulls off any expression well, even this stoic visage that Sousuke momentarily loses himself in. And the subtle shift in weight, moving the angle of his hips atop those shapely legs of his. Is he flirting? On purpose? For all the larger athlete can tell… yes, and it’s working.

He offers a small shake of his head, one hand moving up to rake backwards through his hair, momentarily pulling the asymmetrical sweep of dark, spiky bangs off his forehead.] No… none at all. [And grips the hem of his shirt with his both hands before hauling upward. Sousuke’s hips lean to the side, chest and spine arching as his powerful stomach flexes and Olympic pectorals press forward against the quick bunch of fabric crawling up the curve of his torso. The material folds over his elbows as he pulls his shirt over his head, shoulders rolling and head ducking once the neck clears his face. Then drops his arms, shedding the entrapping clothing off his elbows and wrists to drop it haphazardly on the floor with a lazy motion, a bit of wild ruffle left above in his hair.]

We’ve never taken one together before… Not like this.

[Guess the realization just clicked somewhere inside that shirt.]

[sharkmaid]

[Hey, he might be enthusiastic about life, but he’s not a reckless mess! He can look out for himself just fine. ... Though having the support of a couple friends to make sure he doesn’t wobble too much makes life a bit easier, he’ll admit. Point is, he’s not as bad as he was when he was a clueless kid, ok? So don’t worry so much, you overgrown fish.

Despite his best friend’s attempts at keeping calm and focused, Rin sees right through them as usual, picking up on the tiniest nuances as they unfold. The helpless staring, blinking, tipping his head back to gather his wits back together. It’s not the reaction he’d been expecting, but it’s better and amusing and he just barely manages to bite back a grin for his efforts. Not many people will have the opportunity to witness this side of Sousuke face to face. Tiny cracks in his tough facade, flickers of raw emotion ignited by Rin’s fire alone. In the past it was innocent fun. A joke, a tease, something to laugh at while his best friend nudged him at the back of his knee. Now it’s something to be proud of. Something to cling to, to possess. He’s dating the one person he knows better than the back of his own hand. He’ll see multiple sides to him the world may never discover on its own. He’ll start playing the fool to keep him happy, to keep him safe. He’ll stand here and exchange dirty looks across a room because it’s dangerous. It’s stupid. It’s fun.

And it’s his.

Rin watches in silence as his boyfriend takes his turn, exposing an arguably stronger and more impressive figure to the iridescent light. He’s not helpless, but he is... intrigued. Eying up every inch like a prince admiring a priceless jewel. A stretch here, another flex there... Somehow he doesn’t rip the shirt at the seams when the fabric passes over those hardened muscles. It’s no secret Sousuke’s perfect. He’s never been built for anything else but the water. Years of training, fighting, winning... hurting. If he was still alive, still there in Iwatobi where he belongs... would he be wasting away in this body? His potential, his dream– How can Sousuke be made for anything else? The question bothers Rin enough to glance away, the spark in his stomach dissipating in an instant, and as his best friend’s shirt falls to the floor he turns to leave his draped over the bathroom counter, eyes focused on the drain in the sink, the faucet, the mirror... and finally his reflection.

... When Sousuke looks at this, what does he see? Does he see potential? Perfection? Does he know the water runs in Rin’s veins like nothing else ever will? Or is he like everyone else? A beautiful boy, a sultry god. He plays with others’ emotions while barely containing his own. The person Sousuke’s attracted to... Which one could it be?

I need to be perfect for you. But, to you, what does “perfect” even mean?

Rin scoffs and his reflection smiles back.]

There’s a first for everything. [His hands drop, fingers following the grooves in his waistband towards the buckle in his belt, but then he hesitates. No one else will see Rin like this either. His body, his face, his voice. So is that... ok? Ruby eyes flick back up into the glass to watch Sousuke’s reflection behind.

You’re mine... but can I be yours?]

[takenwithhim]

[He is too a reckless mess sometimes! If it weren’t for Sousuke’s reflexes (and long arms), you’d’ve gone sailing down the stairs when you slipped on the carpet! Not that he has much room to talk when he ran smack into an open door not but two minutes later. Really, when they raced around the castle as kids, you’d think they’d open their stupid eyes instead of laughing and yelling at each other like the best of friends… Sousuke’s pride may make it difficult for him to admit these feelings out loud, but… he appreciates the support Rin gives him. Even if his best friend can be a big ol’ dorkfish.

It's a little unnerving, like always, to know Rin can see through him with no effort. Even if he thinks he’s being suave or discrete, the back of his mind knows Rin’s already seen the truth. It’s not some accidental stare or quick averted gaze. It’s… yeah. Sousuke’d really been staring at Rin, tracing over the lines and curves visible, and not in the recreational or sportsmanship way of keeping watch on Rin’s physical nutrition. Had he really looked so helpless gazing like that? Not like he’d been drooling or something. And you better keep that grin inside; he sees through you too, you know. It’s both unfair and a sheer relief to feel those emotions flare to life with even the smallest of sparks from Rin’s fires. What had been before innocent teasing or a concern comment now blossomed into something mature, curious, and not at all guiltless. Where he’d bumped his shoulder against Rin’s, he now held his hand (occasionally); where they’d once talked across the dinner table, they now slept side by side in the same bed. And through it all, Sousuke saw his feelings; he knew this boy like his own body, from reaction to hidden things. And now … they’re dating. And he’s going to see sights he’s never seen before. Sights no one else in the world will ever see…

How can he not feel selfish when it comes to Rin?

As his shirt falls to the ground and the cool of the bathroom air breathes over his bare torso, Sousuke’s eyes settle on Rin once again. No longer looking at him, but instead braced against the sink and gazing at himself in the mirror. Red eyes heavy with emotions he’s seen before. Thoughts about him. Thoughts about the past. Like always, the look sends some discomforting ripples through his body. But he can’t help the quiet rush of comforting waves as well. Such a dramatic guy, Rin is. He needn’t worry about those questions. Sousuke’s quite literally never seen Rin as a god. Sure, he knows he’s Eros factually, has seen his abilities suited for the god of love, but as the larger swimmer’s told plenty of people, to him, Rin’s simply Rin. A boy who holds the promise of being the best swimmer the world has ever seen. An Olympian with nothing able to hold him back from achieving the dream he holds so dearly in his heart. A friend with a romantic outlook on life that’ll never let him doubt the strengths his friendships give him.

Every part of him reminds Sousuke of the water. From the breeze flowing through his hair, emulating the way his maroon tresses glide and float beneath the pool surface. From the slopes, rises, and falls of his musculature, the very pinnacle of physical perfection that has been flawlessly toned for speed with every streamlined shape and built for power with every rippling bulge of his limbs and torso. From the determined gaze in his eyes that always sparkles and gleams as if two rubies forever gaze at him from beneath the shallows. All that romantic nonsense he’s sure would have his boyfriend crying and protesting like he’s so wont to do. Sousuke’s can’t even see water without Rin’s image resting in his mind, the sound of his voice saying his name in the way he’ll never be tired of. He regrets none of that, but rather prizes it, and holds to it tightly. After all…

To me… You’re perfect.

There’s no use defining “perfect” for him. The word simply encompasses Rin. From his faults to his charm points. Sousuke moves forward as Rin’s eyes finally come back into focus. By the time the other boy lifts his gaze to the mirror again, his hands so tantalizingly hesitating on the buckle of his belt, Sousuke’s behind him. Fingers settle on the visible curves of Rin’s pelvis, silently smoothing over the arches that neither of them ever bother to cover up. He follows them, from the side to the front, tracing the beginning descent of his boyfriend’s pelvic lines, until his fingertips bump into the hem of Rin’s pants. Which he follows until he finds the other swimmer’s wrists. He leisurely explores the back of Rin’s hands, the thin, supple bones rippling under his skin, and glides his digits between the hills of hard knuckles. Until his fingers are implicitly tangled within his lover’s, curling down to brush the pads of his fingertips along the upper cushions of Rin’s palm. They can get back to those pants in a few moments.

Right now, he simply wants this closeness, and draws Rin a scant centimeter backwards as Sousuke brings his larger body up flush against his boyfriend’s back. His hips cupping Rin’s, the powerful sculpture of his chest and stomach flexing against the athletic straps of his lover’s spine and shoulder blacks. A warm breath ghosts over the tender flesh of the hook of Rin’s jaw, lips brushing tender “kisses” along his upper neck. Nuzzling the side of his face with his own, eyes closed as his shorter hair slips and glides through the longer maroon. What does perfection mean to him? This… this right here. This beautiful, perfect boy. Is perfect.

Can I be yours? That stupid question beats in the pulse of Rin’s veins, and Sousuke’s divided between soft amusement and tender annoyance it’s even there. For someone who claims to understand him better than anyone else, why should such a question even exist in Rin’s brain? But no, he’s sure Rin knows the answer; he just likes to hear it said aloud. Because that’s who they are. The way they are.]

Aa… You’re mine, Rin. [Even before the confessions of this day. Probably even before they became partners in this world. Together. Another brush, cheek to cheek, leaning forward until his lips find the corners of Rin’s mouth. Teeth nip tender, tugging until Rin finally breaks his attention from the mirror and turns it to Sousuke, where it belongs. He captures Rin’s mouth with his own, soft but deep, until air demands he break the kiss for a quiet whisper.] I love you.

[sharkmaid]

[Until they can speak about the past, sit down and face each other without distraction or interruption, Rin knows these toxic thoughts will continue to plague his heart. To anyone else they might seem dramatic, pathetic. But to Rin this is just who he is. He wants to please everyone. Wants to be liked, loved, admired, especially by the people he loves and admires the most. When his obligations as a god or the addiction of his sport aren't on his mind, someone else always will be. How they are, where they are, what he can do to show them they matter. As a child he was always too excited for that sort of thing... and look what it cost him. Fractured friendships, misunderstandings, a best friend destroying his own body across the sea. All because he never came back.

So of course he wants to be perfect. More than that if he can. Which is dumb and pointless and, dammit, he's not supposed to be bringing these kind of thoughts into moments like these. It's not like he and Sousuke can talk about it anyway. Not when he doesn't remember.

His hands get back to work unlatching his buckle when suddenly that rush of warmth from behind stills him all over again and beckons his attention over his shoulder. Then his waist. His sides. Lower and lower until he's holding his breath with nervous anticipation. But Sousuke's hands don't wander much further and choose instead to stay with Rin's own, tracing his knuckles, his fingers, juts of vein and bone at the backs of his palms. He wants to ask what he's doing... but more than anything he wants to let him continue, partly because he's selfish, partly because he's awkward and can't think of anything else to do but stand still. Mostly because, again, he likes it when his best friend takes what he wants.

Head dipped, eyes focused back on the sink, Rin's movements are fluid. Squeezing Sousuke's fingers, leaning back until he's settled into the taller swimmer's body for what feels like the hundredth time today. Slowly, all of this is becoming second nature. Like bumping fists or playing janken, falling asleep and waking up again side by side. Same with the deeper things. The kisses, the nuzzles, exchanging air and heartbeats so they'll remain in sync... His eyes fall shut at some point, shoulders round and fingers shake, as if trying to compress into himself and steal away all these specific, special feelings forever. If he lets go, they'll disappear.

If he lets go, Sousuke will disappear.

You're mine, Rin.

It grounds him without a hitch, the assurance in Sousuke's voice echoing into his back and straight into his core. Listening, following him so easily-- He should be scared at how he melts but he isn't. Trusts him too much for that. Respects, cherishes, wants... loves too much for that.

At first he thinks he's hearing his thoughts out in the open. Some phantom voice, neither here nor there, capturing his heart and sending it straight up into his throat. It's impossible to describe how he feels. One point, one nerve, a bundle of blood and limbs and bones all sliced, cauterized and meshed together into a singularity. And somewhere in there all he hears is that thought. Three words. One after the other, again and again, as if they're all he's ever known.

That same voice... disappearing deeper and deeper beneath the sea.

He's turned in his lover's hold quicker than he can breathe, untangling his hands and using them to frame Sousuke's face. He's warm. He's dizzy. His cheeks and lips are wet with tears because it's so hard to contain both their emotions without cracking under pressure. It's there, it's here, all of it. A painful conglomerate of adoration, arousal, worry and grief.]

I love you.

[He forces it through his tears, forces it through those awful memories of death pulsating in his brain because he won't allow a moment like this to be passed up again. I gave you silence once before. I won't be giving it to you again.

Lips tremble but he straightens up and clenches his teeth. I know I'm crying. I know you hate that. But please--]

Do you hear me? [Tap between their foreheads... and suddenly it's easier to breathe.] I need you to know I love you too.

[takenwithhim]

[What exists on his mind now? He doesn’t know in the past, but this new life gives him a lot to dwell on. It’s bothersome the thing he’d like to dwell on will kill him, necessitating its deliberate ignorance. But he has something else in its place. Rin… Rin exists the most on his mind. Thoughts about his best friend’s skills and health, concern over making sure he doesn’t overexert himself and curiosity about helping him handle his role as the God of Love. Yet even without his past, Sousuke finds himself thinking about personal things. A determination to succeed lies foremost on his mind. To continue improving as both a swimmer and a shinki. To be successful and let nothing stand in the way of his goals. It’s a simple life he leads—he admits it—but it’s filling. Comforting. He’s fine with the small circle of acquaintances that exist outside of his best friend. Occasionally thinking of them and offering the token hope they’re doing well. Still, it’s nothing like Rin’s caring spirit. At least, it’s not as obvious or vocal about it.

Perfection is a strange thing. Wanting to be perfect, even knowing such a thing is impossible to achieve, never stops being a power point for him. To be the best, to prove it and know it. He puts a lot of effort into it. But Rin’s always been there to keep watch over him and ensure Sousuke doesn’t overdo it in his efforts to reclaim the skills he had prior to his death. Sometimes it bothers him, but in the end… that’s just who Rin is.

Ironic that Sousuke’s perfection lies not inside himself, but outside. He knows he’ll never be perfect no matter how hard he tries. Perfection doesn’t exist. Yet right here, in the young man he holds within his arms… this is perfect. The warmth ghosting into his chest, the hitch of his body as Rin’s breath catches, the way his eyes widen as he looks up at the mirror and stares with that hot flush all over his face… Perfect. The things he treasures most of all. Sousuke soaks his fingers in the shape of Rin’s hands, from the pulse of his soft veins to the firm structure of his knuckles to the smooth of chlorine-drenched skin. This is obviously romantic, but there’s a selfishness in his actions the swimmer has no intention of denying. Embracing Rin from behind, locking his hands around his waist, drawing him close enough his body molds to his best friend’s…

Sousuke may be gentle beneath his intimidating appearance and persona, but really, he’s not all that gentle inside either. As the brush of maroon hair scrapes over his cheek, the larger teen lifts his eyes, teal gaze sharp and intense through the light shadow overhanging his sight. Gazing at Rin’s reactions in the mirror in front of him, drinking him in with his eyes as much as he breathes in his scent and absorbs his body heat, there’s a strange thought about consuming the other swimmer completely. Each addicting, fluid motion as fingers squeeze his own, as that strong, supple body melts against him, fitting so perfectly together he wonders if perhaps they might have been the same soul split into two bodies at birth. One light, one dark, one red, one blue, one warm, one cool. Incomplete unless they’re together. Because it all feels… so natural.

You’re mine. I won’t ever let you go. Possessive thoughts, soft and deep. Actually, Sousuke can’t be sure he those words stayed in his head; they might have come out of his mouth and washed over Rin’s skin. No matter. They’re truth regardless. Because this is what he wants. It’s fine. To hold him, to be beside Rin. Just like this. It’s… perfect. So perfect, the gentle click of a key somewhere in his chest permits those three, dangerous, tender, painful, romantic words to finally slip free of his heart and glide up to his mouth. They leave his lips, a gossamer promise, a wish, a confession, and find their way to Rin. His ears, his skin, his heart. Perhaps he should panic, attempt to stop himself or dodge… but he doesn’t. The words… also feel natural. This feels right.

Sousuke blinks and leans back just slightly, arms loosening around Rin’s waist as the other boy abruptly twists in his hold. Like a flash almost, one moment his back presented and now suddenly his face. His heart skips a beat, wondering if perhaps he’s said something unwanted or frustrating. But silence remains. Silence as hands twist free of his own and the warmth of Rin’s palms and fingers rest on either side of his face. He doesn’t pay attention to where his own hands go for rest. Only focuses on gazing at his best friend’s face. The glisten of his red eyes as tears slip down his cheeks and his lips quiver enough to show the tiny glimmer of sharp white teeth behind trembling breaths. Cracking… Rin’s cracking. Because he’s bearing the weight of not only Sousuke’s emotions, but his own as well. All of them, from the intense affection he feels right now to the glowing arousal that’s impossible to ignore to the quiet concern he’s done something wrong.

Once again, I’ve made you cry.

But… three words. Not from him, but from Rin this time. They come back, the same words he just said, yet they sound completely different, and Sousuke’s taken by surprise as if he’s never heard them before in his life. Yet there they are, resting on his lips with the same warmth and taste of the one who spoke them. For a moment, he doesn’t know what to do. Sure, saying them was one thing. But to have them said back, to know his feelings are returned… so intently. Shock, cut of disbelief… and then such a flooding rush of pure happiness and incredulous delight crashes into every part of his body, leaving Sousuke tingling, a shiver rippling down his spine and his face pinking hot under his tan skin.

Yet you love me.

Never once does he doubt those words or Rin’s feelings. Yes, he hates it when Rin cries. It clenches his chest, pains his heart, and he always wonders what he could have done to prevent his best friend from experiencing a reason to be sad. But… this time, it’s not sadness is it… Sousuke’s breath slides from partially-open lips, silent and hot. The question is desperate, strangely so, and something drags hard and heavy inside him. Regret? Guilt? Understanding? He doesn’t know. But it’s there, and he knows this is important to Rin. Not just exchanging those three words, but understanding them. Does he know Rin loves him? In all the actions and experiences they’ve shared together, everything leading up to now… does it prove Rin loves him?

Their foreheads rest together, sharing the warmth of their bodies and the sound of their breaths. Rin’s desire, his need to know… Sousuke doesn’t know why the desperation is there, but he understands how precious it is. This isn’t some romantic notion. This is a promise, a vow… As his hands tighten around Rin’s waist, drawing him close once again, Sousuke nuzzles his forehead against Rin’s, eyes closing as he leans in and their bodies melt together once more.]

Aa. I know you do. [Even without his memories… he knows the truth in his heart.] Now. And forever… I do.