Until We Meet Again

It was nothing more than a childish memory, a promise made between two kids who had never truly experienced what is called 'life', a parting that had left many regrets in both of them. Yet, somehow, it has clung to him for as far as he could remember, no matter how much he had changed as time passed.

"We might not be able to see each other again for a long time, and now we have to live so far away."

Dated back many years ago, on a starry, quiet night, in an abandoned treehouse which was found by them and known by them two alone, two boys spent their final moments together, before tomorrow came, when they have to depart to different poles of Japan. The decisions were made so sudden that they didn't know what to do, but they were merely kids, what else could they possibly do, to change the fact that this might as well be the last time they see each other?

"But if we ever crossed path again, I will definitely have become stronger, and no one would pick on me again."

When they are together, they felt as if time and space had stopped. They recounted the precious memories they shared together and reminisce on how they have never be away from one another's presence, how they met for the first time and how they have always got each other's backs. Some of them were years ago, yet he felt as if they were only yesterday. They laughed and chatted like they always did, but they know for sure that, this time was different. And, for every second that they still got to spend together, they have to treasure it.

"So, shall we do one last pinky swear?"

They both have also aware of the feeling that could only grow stronger and stronger in their hearts that had far surpassed the line of friendship that blossomed for the first time ever, but, they both feared that they will lose what they were having, so they have kept it hidden, completely unaware of the reciprocation they shared together. They have to face the reality that soon enough, their lives will become anew - a life without the presence that had become so familiar to them. They didn't know which paths will the future lead them to, they didn't know what is waiting for them. But they know for sure that for them to have no other regret before the inevitable parting that is soon to come, they have to make an oath together, a promise that they would keep for as long as they still live in this world. A mutual understanding that they belonged to each other, now and forever.

"One day, we will be together, no matter what happens."

---

On a queen-size bed, in a room of a rather fancy hotel, Hiruka cringed as he quietly sat up and rubbed his eyes. Outside, it hasn't the break of dawn just yet, but it wasn't as dark as it was when midnight, so he could assume that it's only about 3:30AM. Hiruka was completely undressed, with a blanket covered him from his waist down. And, lying while still sleeping rather soundly next to him was a ripped, handsome middle-aged man, whom he had just met last night at his brother's bar. There's no need to tell on how much fun they have had.

If this is in some yaoi manga, apparently Hiruka would have commented that "his back hurts" or "the guy was too rough". But no, he considered himself to be an "expert" when it comes to this and it isn't for show at all. Stretching his arms, Hiruka gently got off the bed as not to wake up his one-night stand and put on his clothes which were scattered all over the room, before picking up his bag and left the room in silence. He doesn't have a habit of keeping touch with those he slept with, so he would usually walk away in quiet, just like that.

Not that it matters, anyway.

Walking out of the hotel, Hiruka put on his headphone and tapped as a song began to play as he calmly strolled his way back to his apartment, with an emotionless face. It has been a year since his "umpteenth" boyfriend broke up with him and he had totally given up any effort just to bring himself to commit to anyone. If there's a prize for the person who had the most terrible of luck when it comes to love affairs, he's confident that he would have won already. It's better that he give it a rest. There's still a lot of guys out there whom he can use to satisfy his needs. That's how he had taken up this kind of life. And he's totally happy with it, maybe even more than when he's still all lovey-dovey alike.

Tokyo before break of dawn is so peaceful and quiet that it was hard to believe that it'll be bustling with crowds and traffics just an hour or two later. It had been 5 years since he and Makoto first come here. Things were hard at first, since there were so many new challenges, so many things to learn, but now, life with them has been quite contented. Usually, Makoto's bar, Ahnenerbe, opens at 8:00PM and closes at 2:30AM, so he should have been home by now. Probably still up waiting for his adorable nii-chan to return.

After he made it back to their apartment, which also situated in Shinjuku district, Hiruka uses his spare key to open the door. "I'm home." He said as he put off his shoes and turned on the light. There wasn't any responses, probably due to Makoto had already settling down for the night. However, he could saw that there was a dish of rice and curry on the dining table under a plastic cover, with a note: Heat up and eat when you return, nii-chan.

Chuckling, Hiruka then proceeded to do what the note said and enjoyed the little meal his brother had made. It was lucky for him to still have his brother by his side, or else he really would be alone after having his heart broken for so many times. When he finished, he washed the dish before walking to his room. His working shift is at 8:00AM, so he might just as well take a couple of hours of sleep.

When Hiruka woke up again, he checked the time and saw that it was already 7:00AM, still an hour away until he got to work. He changed into another shirt and tied up his hair. As he stepped out, a rather lanky voice spoke up from the kitchen, "Hey, nii-chan. Did you have fun yesterday?" Makoto asked while reading a newspaper and drink a cup of espresso, "Well, of course you did. I don't think I need to ask again."

"Come on, what's with that attitude? It's not like you're any better, eh, Bartender-kun?" Hiruka said with a teasing voice as he sat across with his brother.

"Sorry, I totally could never have the privilege to match up with the so-called "little naughty sex fiend" here." Makoto stuck out his tongue, "Still, I gotta admit that looking like that when you're only half a decade away from being an old man should be considered as a crime. No wonder why guys are totally fawning over you. At least keep your hands away from the boys at my place, okay? Lately you've become quite a gossip topic."

"Don't worry, they looked good, but none of them are really my type anyway. Well, some of them asked me for a night out, but I'm pretty sure they were more intimidated by their boss. So no worries." Hiruka chuckled.

They both chatted a little more until it was Hiruka's time to work. Bidding goodbye to his brother, he set off to his workplace through a bus. When he arrived at Arisu's - one of the most popular barber shop in Tokyo, he went through the back entrance for staffs, and met up with his boss, Kasumi, who was being bossy and flamboyant as always, along with her two brothers, Madoka and Kazuki, who are also Hiruka's co-workers. They soon opened the shop and right away, customers who are both males and females alike poured in.

It was another fun day at work for Hiruka, as he always make sure that every of his customer walking out of the shop will have a total fabulous new look. Though Kasumi won't often compliment them, she too had to admitted that ever since Hiruka worked for them a few years ago, they have been very successful with their business. Hiruka would usually just brush it off with a smile and said that he simply do his job.

When he finally returned from his work, it was already quite late at night and Makoto had already set off to work. Since he doesn't have anything better to do, he might just as well spend another night at the bar and bother him. After all, it was nice to have somewhere he can grab a drink or two for free. If he got any luck, there will be some guys who he can grab and have some golden time with.

Taking a long, nice shower, Hiruka dressed in his simple casual attire and tied his hair in a pony tail. Gathering his stuff, he stroll his way from the apartment to the 2-chome ward of Shinjuku - the gay paradise in Tokyo. There were, of course, many bars and other places where people like him can have a good time there. Thankfully, Ahnenerbe was amongst the more popular ones and it has gained quite some popularity recently.

Opened the door and made his way inside, the door bell rang. Makoto had opened for not very long so it's no surprise that there aren't many customers yet. Makoto, the bartender as well as owner of the bar, looks better looking now that he's dressed in a formal suit. "Good evening, Hiruka-sama. What can I get for you today?" He asked in a rather jokingly manner.

"Well, just like usual. A martinez, if you would." Hiruka said as he sat down on the stool in front of the counter.

While sipping calmly from his drink, Hiruka cast his gaze all over the bar to see if there are any single guy that caught his eyes, but there isn't anyone so far. So, he just sat quietly and chatting with Makoto whenever he doesn't have to make a drink. That is, until a small group of guys made their way in. Well, two of them were a couple, apparently and they were quick to find a dark corner to take care of their "businesses".

"Hey, you really allow them to do that here?" Hiruka raised the question.

Makoto shrugged, "As long as they didn't take it too far. Making out is fine, but I'll have them send into the toilet if I heard some moans going on."

"Figure that much." Hiruka chuckled as he continued to sip from his glass. Soon, he was joined by the only guy left in the group, which was a rather tall guy with dark hair, who doesn't seemed to be older than him much. He sat a seat away from Hiruka and ordered a blue cocktail, "Coming right up, sir." Makoto replied as began to mix the drink for his customer and served it and whispered to Hiruka with a mischievous smirk, "Exactly your type, right?"

"Pfft." Hiruka grinned and winked to Makoto. He usually wasn't the one to make the first move, but there sure are something about this guy that make him want to take the initiative. So, he took another sip from his martinez and spoke up, "So, dare I ask what a good-looking gentleman here doing in a lovely evening like this?"

Hiruka calmly taking a sip of martinez from his own glass, while giving the man a glance from the bottom to the top. The man was quite handsome, in his opinion, and to say that he was a total hulk wouldn't be too much of an exaggeration, and he seems older than him. In a way, he reminded him of a couple of rock singers that once come into Arisu's and got their hair done by Hiruka himself. He very well may be one. If there's one thing he's proud of, that would be his ability to read people and tell almost exactly how they are.

He watched the man drink his own glass of cocktail and listened as he introduced himself and how he had managed to end up here. It seemed the guys who are making out in the corner over there are his friends and he was simply being dragged here by them. What is surprising is the fact that he said he hadn't been with anyone for eight years, which Hiruka raised his eyebrow at.

Then, Hiruka tilted his head and smiled with his newfound drinking partner, "I see. You seemed to have some interesting fellas, if I must say. Though, I partly agree with them that eight years are a really long period of time." Hiruka replied. He too had to admitted that he admired how the man had managed to stay chaste like that for such a long time. It wouldn't be wrong to say that if it comes to him, he might die of boredom if he doesn't sleep with anyone for just one month.

When the man introduced his name, which was Nanasa Yutaro, Hiruka's heart stung a little bit. It was the very same name of the boy whose promise he still blindly hold even til now. However, in this case, it might be just a coincidence, nothing more. So, he just smiled back casually in reply, "I'm Sorayuki Hiruka, it was my pleasure, Yutaro-san. This guy here is my cute little brother so in a way, you can say that I'm a co-owner of this bar." He threw his head towards Makoto, who is busy making drink behind the counter.

The conversation between them went on quite pleasantly for hours. This is quite normal to Hiruka, since he would usually have a nice, long chat with whoever tried to hit on him, before decided if they would make the catch of the night or not. After that, Yutaro was joined by his friends, who pestered him and told him that he would have had a lot of fun that night, which he grudgingly agreed. The two of them introduced themselves to Hiruka, and he does the same with them.

The guy who had just introduced himself as Jun went on to rant about all things, most of them related to how Yutaro had been staying a chaste man for almost a decade. He must really have been pent up.. Hiruka sheepishly thought. Then suddenly, one of them got a call from a person named Yui, whom they acknowledged as their manager. She seemingly ordered them to return immediately or who knows what might happen to them yesterday.

"My, y'all have been very interesting partners, if I must say." Hiruka chuckled and remarked, as he shook his hand with Yutaro, "And I you, Yutaro-san. I hope to catch you around soon." He waved to them with a smile as they walked their way out of the bar. Turning his attention back to his brother, Hiruka sighed. "So, you found a nice fish today but you didn't manage to catch it in the end, huh?" Makoto said with a grin.

Hiruka shrugged, "At least I've found an interesting guy, am I? I'll see if his skills got any rusty after such a long time though."

"Tell me about it. Why don't you just go and make yourself useful like usual, my co-owner nii-chan?" Makoto teased at he threw his head at the piano in the corner of the bar.

"Yeah, yeah I know." Hiruka stuck out his tongue at his brother before walking to the piano and started playing a series of songs, as to keep any customer in the bar going with his playing. It's still two hours away before Makoto close off, and it was already too late to found another guy. Just like that, another long and enjoyable night for Hiruka had quietly passed, before going back to work the first thing in the morning.

After closing the bar at 3:00AM, Hiruka and Makoto headed back to their apartment together, stopping by a ramen stall on the way to have some supper while chatting about how their days have been. There are almost no secrets between the two of them ever since they were kids, and Hiruka felt the most comfortable when conversing with his brother in comparison with other people. The fact that Makoto hadn't really fell in love before despite already having his virginity lost only two years ago was a topic that Hiruka would usually tease about. Even though he knows that a slanderous man like him has no rights to make fun of anyone's sex life.

Although Hiruka didn't have a whole lot of time to sleep, it didn't deter him much either, as he knows just how to keep himself energetic all day. Being a hairdresser means that he always have to look his best, and keep his mind into what he is doing. Slid the scissors wrong for just one inch and the whole head will become a disaster. Making sure that all customers who had their hair done by him walked out of the shop with a contented smile is the least thing he could do. Kasumi once commented that he doesn't have to try too hard, but that just how he is. That's why she always make him the perfect example for her two younger brothers, as they tend to play around with their job a lot.

The morning at Arisu's passed by just like usual, with streams of customers from both genders coming in almost infinitely, and there are only four of them to take care of business. However, it was a good thing that people are polite enough to wait for their turns. When the last customer of the morning shift left, it has already passed 12:30PM. It was around these time that they got a few moment to rest and have lunch before continuing in the afternoon.

Kasumi would usually ordered packed bento boxes from a nearby convenient store delivered to them for lunch. They mostly sell donkatsu or teriyaki chicken served with rice and miso soup. Of course, they all know that eating processed food wasn't very healthy, but at least they were delicious. The topics they usually chatted with each other are mostly gossips about their daily lives, and sometimes about more personal matter like their love lives.

While Hiruka was sitting and eating away his lunch while reading a newly published weekly magazine, Kazuki draped over him, "Oi, Ruka-chan. Guess what I've just got here."

"Tickets? Whatever they are for?" Hiruka asked as he notices a pair of tickets his colleagues are holding.

"Well, it was for an upcoming concert of a favorite rock band of mine. It's going to be held about a couple of weeks later. I asked Ma-nii and Ka-nee to come along but apparently they've got their plans already. It would be such a waste if I go alone though, so... if you are not busy then, would you mind...?" Kazuki clasped his hands in a very sincere manner and asked.

"A rock concert, huh?" Hiruka pondered a little bit over the offer then nodded, "Sure, why not? Might sound fun."

"Yatta ~ You won't regret it ~" Kazuki said while giving Hiruka a back hug and was about to kiss his cheek, but Hiruka had blocked it with his hand, "No over-intimacy at work, please."

Just like that, the following week passed by quietly in the same manner. Going to work, hanging around at Ahnenerbe, grabbing a few guys for some 'quality time', everything was quite normal for Hiruka. It's Saturday by now and Hiruka is making his way home since Arisu's only open in the morning in Saturday. With his headphone on, Hiruka humming along with the song which was playing on his iPod as he walked on without bumping into anyone. That is, until he came across the park.

A young girl ran up to him and nudged his sleeve from behind, which gained his attention. When he put off the headphone and let it hang around his neck, he turned back and look at her. When she expressed her admiration for his hair, Hiruka couldn't help let out a chuckle, "Thanks for the compliment. Are you lost, little miss?"

Right after that, the most unexpected of person called over to them and approached them. "Yutaro-san?" When he walked up to them, he said that he had been planning to visit Ahnenerbe again for sometimes, but hadn't got much time, "Ah, no worries. It's not like I would spend my time there all the time. I didn't think I would bump into you here though." Hiruka smiled as he watched the two of them reunited, though he was surprised to hear that the small girl addressed Yutaro as "tou-san." So he had a daughter, huh? If that's the case then why would he come to a gay bar, of all places? Chances could be that he's a single father, but Hiruka didn't let it concern himself much.

When he heard the two of them said that his hair was beautiful, he just laughed it off while scratching the back of his head, "Oh, you two don't have to shower my hair with lots of praises like that." It's true that many people would notice his hair first of all things when they met him, but he sometimes doesn't know if he should consider it a blessing or a curse. The young girl introduced herself to be Yuki and that she was in third grade. And soon after, Hiruka found himself having a new nickname, "It sounds nice, thanks, Yuki-chan."

Yuki then suddenly gasped in a rather dramatical manner again then turned to his father to asked if she can invite him to go with them to a cat café nearby, before turning to him and asked again. Hiruka tilted his head with a bright smile, "Of course, I'd love to. My apartment is only a few block away from here so why not?" Then, he turned to Yutaro, "I hope you wouldn't mind, Yutaro-san."

With that said, the three of them walked their way to the cat cafe together. It wasn't very far from where they stood. The moment they pushed the door open, obviously the first thing they saw was an army of cats. And as a child, it's no surprise that Yuki was astonished by the sight. Hiruka and Yutaro sat at a nearby table while Yuki run around and play with the cats. "I will have a cup of espresso, please." Hiruka said to the waitress when she came and took their order, before turning to Yutaro, "She really is a nice girl, isn't she? I was a bit surprised when she called you 'tou-san', you know."

---

It was a cool nickname xD And about Hiruka's schedule, well, he works for all weekdays and in the morning on Saturday, so nice timing :)

When I decided to change Hiruka's occupation, I was thinking that maybe it suits him better to remember that promise and cling to it ever since then, but I forgot to make the change, though I've got that edited now. And when you said that Jun was ranting, I don't know what would he be ranting about so I just put it like that, since I didn't think it would be a big deal. I've edited it too, so sorry ~~ >.>

Hiruka listened attentively to Yutaro as he talked about himself. So, it turns out that the guy is a musician and he's trying not to be too public about his daughter or reporters would catch his tail or something. Famous people sure have it tough when it comes to their privacy and stuff, huh? He once have a couple of stalkers in the past, but none had shown up to bother him now after he had given them all a few kicks in the face. And it seemed that his guessing of Yutaro being a single father was right. "I see, you must have had it tough with your jobs. I understand how it feels. Some of the guys who saw me at my brother's bar were really annoying. I suppose you could say that having an outlook like this isn't totally a blessing, you know, but you just have to live with it."

The conversation between them went on quite pleasantly. It was nice that Hiruka had managed to found another person whom he can talked casually like this. Well, he's always been an easy person to talk to, after all. Hiruka noticed that Yutaro is visibly avoiding to talk about Yuki's mother, perhaps because it was a touchy subject after all, so he wasn't insensitive enough to bring that up either. He's never been a curious cat, after all. Yuki had been ordering almost every dish there are in the menu, and offered Hiruka to eat with them, though he politely declined since he still have to save room and have lunch with Makoto.

Yuki sure is attracted to the kittens and even have managed to pick one of them, asking her father if she could bring them back to her. And Yutaro agreed right away, though it was quite visible that he seems a bit reluctant at first. Hiruka couldn't help to find that both of them are quite an amusing couple. Maybe he would be like that one day, if he ever got a child, but that thought seems very unlikely, at least in the near future.

Before parting ways, Yutaro gave Hiruka his phone number by written it down at the back of the bill. "That sounds good. I'll see you again sometimes then. My boss would kill me if I say this but if you or Yuki-chan wanted to have your hair done, feel free to stop by at my shop sometimes, I'll give you a special discount ~" And, he waved back to Yutaro as he watched the two of them left through the café's door. Picking up his bag and put on his headphone, Hiruka then made his way back home. It was already 12:30PM and Makoto probably have gotten up by now.

"Just what have been keeping you from going straight home and make lunch for me? Having fun with some hot gals at broad daylight has just become your new hobby?" Was the first thing his brother said to him the moment he stepped his foot inside the apartment. Well, he really has no excuse. Even though it was Makoto, to outright tell him that he had been going on what would be enough to considered as a 'date' with a hot guy whom he just barely met days ago would be awkward. So he just laughed it off and went on making lunch for the two of them.

He spent the rest of the day and the following day pestering and hanging around with Makoto. Ahnenerbe was as popular as ever and Hiruka didn't see Yutaro stopping by either, but he figured that he shouldn't be bothering him too much, since both of them aren't that close yet. When it was Sunday night, Hiruka caught up with Kazuki at their designated place before they headed to the stage where the band who will be having a concert tonight will perform. If he remembers correctly, their name was Snowflower. That's not really something one would use to name a rock band, or a male band that is.

Kazuki had managed to book some really good seats, and he also prepared lightsticks for both of them. He really is a big fan, huh? Hiruka sheepishly thought as he hold the pair of lightsticks Kazuki gave him and anticipated as the lights went out. As the first song began, the crowd cheers and waved along with every line of the song. Hey, isn't that... Hiruka turned his gaze to a member of the band, who looks strikingly familiar. And when the lights become clearer, it was shown to be Yutaro, much to his amazement.

The atmosphere was really upbeat and Hiruka didn't know since when was he being pulled along, as he also cheered as loud as Kazuki while waving the lightstick. When the concert ended, he felt a little bit exhausted after such cheering, but it was worth it. "See, I told you it would be fun. I've never thought you could be so enthusiastic, Ruka-chan." Kazuki cheerfully said as both of them walked out together from the stage.

"Yeah, I had to admit that it was fun. Next time feel free to tag me along." Hiruka grinned to his colleague as both of them walked away from the stage together, while chatting casually with each other. From the look of it, one could almost mistook them to be a couple, taken into account of how clingy Kazuki is. Since it wasn't that late yet, they decided to head off for some grilled meat and beer. Hiruka, however, still didn't believe such coincidence just happened. It seemed that Yutaro has just become more and more interesting. It has been a while since he met a guy whom he didn't have any intention of laying his hand on, and it wasn't bad, in his opinion.

---

I'm all ear :D

After having some night time fun with each other at the yakiniku and karaoke, Hiruka and Kazuki parted way. On his way back, Hiruka bought some ingredients at the convenient store to make some supper for Makoto, knowing that he wouldn't be back yet. It had been quite a fun night with the concert and all, but all fun gotta end for sometimes. It's back to the usual routine tomorrow. But he couldn't deny that sometimes going out for a change and finding something new to do are the remedies for any trouble in life. Who needs settling down any time soon while you can still enjoy life to its' fullest?

The following day passed by in pretty much the same manner. Hiruka is not really a Monday person, but he knows he shouldn't be lazy for any longer than a moment. If he's doing something, he'll make sure that there would be no flaw at all. Of course, the first thing that Kazuki bombarded both Kasumi and Madoka of how much fun they've had on Sunday. Well, the two of them couldn't care less. But another busy working day is waiting for them so there's no room for chit-chat now. So, Hiruka spent the rest of the morning and the afternoon tending the hair of his customers. However, for some moments, somehow Yutaro managed to make it into his mind. Out of so many jerks he once come across, the guy seemed like a genuine good guy, he could figure out that much by the way his daughter, Yuki, look at him. Just the mere thought is enough to make a light smile appeared on his face.

And so the night soon came, and Hiruka was hanging out at Ahnenerbe like usual. He was sipping on a cup of vodka while chatting with a handsome office worker who seems to be interested for a golden night at the counter. That is, until two guests came in and intruded them. Hiruka sighed as he excused his current drinking partner before turning his attention to the two guys. Hiruka crossed his legs and leaned his head against his fist, as he smiled to them in a friendly manner and greeted them, "So, what can I do for you two lovely gentlemen?"

As Jun's expression changed from a sly grin into a supposed 'scary' glare, Hiruka listened to what the guy got to say with him. But, his smile doesn't deter for just a second. Even Makoto, who was overhearing the conversation from behind the counter, doesn't even bother to intervene. And the couple left, before either of them could say anything. Then right after that, both Hiruka and Makoto burst into laughter. "Can you believe it? Make your life a 'living, burning Hell'? What is he, a high school rich, spoiled punk?" Makoto's voice almost become blurred between laugh.

"Well, I suppose that's quite intimidating enough. But still gotta try harder next time." Hiruka commented while still chuckling. He has experience dealing with stalkers dated way back since Junior High, so the fact that both Jun and his boyfriend was observing from afar despite their 'business' didn't manage to slip his eyes. He had also been listening to threatening cliché like this so much that he could almost certain that he was sick of it. So of course, none of the word that the guy had said bothered him the slightest.

"But I must say, it's never seized to amaze me how people can change their faces so quick." He said calmly before taking a sip from his glass of vodka. After all, it was the very reason as of why it always hurts so bad whenever he was being ditched by his long list of exes. Perhaps it was just because of his terrible bad luck, or just because there are not too many faithful people out there. In a way, he was a bit jealous with the two guys because they're blissfully ignorant in love. Hiruka could almost be certained that no one would understand his pain, if they didn't live through what he had gone through themselves.

"Still, you're not going to do anything with that Yutaro guy, are you?" Makoto raised the question as he proceeded to make a cocktail.

Hiruka shrugged, "Relax. It's been a while since I've met a good guy like that. Sometimes it wasn't bad starting up a friendly, healthy relationship. I don't mind making friends, and you know my rules." Then, he drank up the whole glass of liquor, before standing up, "The night is still young, after all." He said before stretching his arms and made his way to table where the handsome office worker whom he conversed with earlier but got interrupted sat at, and the two of them made out.

Another long day passed by, and night came once again. Hiruka also lazes around at Ahnenerbe tonight, simply because he doesn't got anything better to do sticking at home. And it seemed that he wouldn't be lonely for tonight, he was certain of that the moment he saw Yutaro walked through the door with his friends. Of course, both of them didn't miss a chance to throw him a hateful look, but Hiruka was almost indifferent to it. If there are people who hate him just because they don't know who he truly is, he would just pretend that they didn't exist.

Nodding to Yutaro's greeting, Hiruka replied, "Nah, it's no big deal. I know how hectic life and work can be. But it was good news to hear that you could come more often."

The conversation flows casually between them. When Yutaro showed him some videos of Yuki when she was younger, he also replied with a couple of embarrassing facts about Makoto when he was young, earning himself a few scornful glare from behind the counter. He also showing off his skill by playing a couple of songs at the piano. When he's having fun, there's nothing that could hold him back.

As it reached the Ahnenerbe's closing time, most of the customers had left, save Yutaro and his friend. The guy bid his goodbye, but before he go, Hiruka slipped a piece of paper that contains his email and phone number, "Call me anytime." He said. When Yutaro waved to him in the usual dramatic manner, he waved back with a smile.

"This could really be the start of something, huh?" Makoto commented with a grin.

"Maybe you're right." Hiruka calmly replied.

---

I told you I'm totally going to make Hiruka a homme fatale xD
And just don't make a habit out of it, I guess xD

After Yutaro and his friends had left, Hiruka and Makoto also left soon after when they closed Ahnenerbe for the day. It has been yet another fun day for them and though Hiruka didn't show it, he was quite happy being able to make a new friend. Makoto seems to trust his brother with Yutaro too, because there's no way he's gonna let any jerk playing around with Hiruka's again after all that had happened. But he doesn't actually have to do anything much since Hiruka is totally capable of looking after himself. Of course, he never wholly agreed with the way his brother is sleeping around with all sorts of guys, but nothing else matters as long as Hiruka is truly happy.

They stopped by their usual ramen stall which was quite near their apartment. The owner there have seen them around for too many times to even asking them what would they want to eat. There's nothing that can beat a warm, steamy bowl of noodles in chilly nights like this. Happily eating their supper together, they chatted about all sorts of stuff and things that they would share with each other only. Such is the strong bond can will never be broken between the two brothers, no matter how much they have been hurt by other people. Makoto is the only person who have always been standing next to Hiruka, whether it was protecting him from the bullies before Hiruka learned to beat them up himself, or when he was being ditched by another guy.

"You know, if we aren't brothers then I'm pretty sure I will marry you right away, no argument." Hiruka joked and laughed as he drank from his cup of sake.

"Funny because I was thinking the same thing. Without me, I don't think you can do anything." Makoto replied as they laughed together.

The following morning soon came and Hiruka when it was 35 minutes before his work as usual. It only takes him 20 minutes to change his clothes and have breakfast and 15 minutes to walk to Arisu's. Thanks to the Jun guy, both of them had taken up the phrase 'burning, living Hell' as their joke and would burst into laughter anytime they brought that up. It was an energetic morning for them, as usual.

With everything prepared, Hiruka set off to Arisu's, greeting a couple of his neighbors on his way. As usual, today is also another busy day, as Hiruka was barely putting his apron and tool-carrier belt on. Apparently due to a drama that had been very popular recently, men had been ordering to have their hair undercut while women ordered hime cut. But of course, the salon lives up to its' reputation and most people walked out with a smile on their face, contented that they're looking fabulous as ever. The four of them have to move their fingers repeatedly without a moment to rest while changing from scissors to trimmer in almost an instance, as well as keeping the customers entertained by telling stories and gossiping with them. Such is how hairdressers work.

After Hiruka had finished dying the hair of a young woman blonde, he held a mirror to let her see her hair from every angle. And of course, she was contented with it. He also recommended her what types of shampoo to use to keep the color from fading. The moment she stepped out, the ring above the door rang again, "Welcome to Arisu's. Please take-" Hiruka turned to greet the newly entered guest, when he realized the familiar face.

Yuki-chan? What is she doing here? Is Yutaro-san around? Hiruka excused Kasumi, who was standing next to him, for a moment, as he approached the young girl. "Hey, Yuki-chan." He sat down to match with her level, and smiled brightly to her, "Nice seeing you here. Did you come to have your hair cut? Where's your tou-san?"

---

It means that he's going to be a total badass xD I dwell a bit deep into Hiruka and Makoto's relationship too so no worries. And yeah, I saw that one :D

Hiruka listened to Yuki as she recounted the reason why she was here, and blinked in utter surprise. Yutaro-san would really just let his daughter went off by herself, if he's already knew of her easily distraction by the surrounding like this? He almost let out a rather dramatic sigh, but hold it back, as he smiled to Yuki again. "I see. You're a really wonderful girl for being able to remember something like that and even went off by yourself, you know. But next time, try to stay on your path and don't stray away just because of a cute kitten away like that, okay?" He said and ruffled her head. Yuki is a nice girl indeed and if Hiruka was to have a daughter, he hopes that she would be just like her.

And once again, Yuki gasped loudly, as it might be something that's probably had been her habit since long. She reached into her bag and searched for something with a remarkable concentration. When she pulled out a Hello-Kitty purse, Yuki asked Hiruka again if he's a hairdresser, and if he would trim her hair for her, before pleading with him in the most adorable way ever, earning them amusing looks from the both the Miyashiro siblings and the other customers in the shop.

He couldn't help spurt out chuckling when he heard what she said, "Of course, silly. This is a salon and I work here. You don't need that much just to trim your hair though. And no, you're too young to have your hair dyed. I don't think your tou-san would allow me to do it, either." Hiruka then walked a few steps away and picked up a basket full of toys and manga for children, which was meant to keep children from running around, and gave it to Yuki, "Here, just sit here and play while you're waiting for your turn, okay?" He winked to her and went back to work with his current customer, "Sorry for keep you waiting. What would you like to have your hair done?"

After a while, it was finally Yuki's turn, Hiruka trimmed her hair as she requested in a neat and clean way, and tied her hair up afterward into knots, which he believes would suit her very much. It took about 10 minutes, and Yuki seemed to enjoy it. When Hiruka is finished, he held the mirror and let her see all the angles of her hair, which apparently excites her. Since there are a couple of customers left, Hiruka and Kasumi took care of them, while Madoka and Kazuki sat and play with Yuki.

When it's their lunch break, Kasumi asked him who the girl was, "It was a daughter of a friend of mine. She seems to be lost on her way to her father or something." Hiruka explained. Excused his boss to went off, Hiruka then took Yuki to a nearby train station, "Now then, can you tell me where your tou-san's studio is?"

As both of them went through the gate of the station and stood to wait before their designated train arrived, they chatted together. It almost look like a father walking with his daughter. Every minute passes, Hiruka learned a bit more about Yuki. And just that alone is enough for him to know how well Yutaro and his wife had raised her. She seems to captivate the hearts of those around her with ease and her cuteness knows no bounds.

What happened back at Arisu's. Both Kasumi and Kazuki are children lovers so they apparently have no problem with her, but a usually stern person like Madoka would smile is not something you would see everyday. He even let her braided his '10 million yen worth' hair without complaining. Children sure have some sort of magic in convincing the older ones, huh? Hiruka sheepishly thought. The only thing he could remember back when he's a kid is how people always mistaken him for a girl.

When Yuki recited the address of the studio, Hiruka blinked in surprise again. He also knows about it since he was invited to go there and make up some of the artists in the past. But that's pretty far from here, how easily could she stray off...? He let out a quiet sigh. He must be sure to remind Yutaro about this the next time they met. It was lucky, and oddly, that both time she got lost over chasing a cat she would run into him.

After the train had started moving, Yuki noticed an elderly woman whom she usually met on the train she took everyday. They conversed with each other as she introduced Hiruka to her, in which he just nodded respectfully and smiled to her. She then proceeded to hum a song, which Hiruka couldn't help feeling somewhat... familiar? He could almost be sure that he had heard it somewhere, but didn't let it concern him much, while he just sat, nodded and answered to Yuki of whatever she got to say or to ask. Her energy and enthusiasm never seizes to amaze him.

The train stopped at their designated station and Yuki led Hiruka to the station which is not very far from there. And Yuki couldn't be more eager to ask to show Hiruka around, which he couldn't really decline. Taking the elevator to the tenth floor, she led him through the door with the label 'Snowflower'. Wow, if Kazuki is here then I'm pretty sure he's going to fanboy all over the place. He thought before walking through the door.

What is behind was not the way he imagined it to be for a rock band though. It looks just like any other recording room he'd been to in his life, and apparently they didn't really bother cleaning up. Hiruka isn't at home often but he always make sure that everything is cleaned within his presence, and made sure Makoto kept it that way until he returns from work. There was a woman with blonde short hair sitting behind the desk. As Yuki went to put down her bag, the woman introduced herself to be Yui, whom Hiruka remembered to be the band's manager. "Ah, so you're the one who told the lot of them to come back in Ahnenerbe. And I don't think between us is really something like a crush or anything. And about your brother, it's fine, I don't mind." Hiruka replied.

He nodded when she explained that the band's members had gone to a recording studio and they wouldn't be back anytime soon. "I see. Well, my boss didn't call me back yet so I don't think it's too much of a problem. I'll keep Yuki-chan accompanied then." He said with a polite smile, before sitting down and help Yuki with her mathematics homework. Since she kept humming a song, Hiruka couldn't help asking, "That's a nice song you've been humming, can I ask what name is it?"

He was a little surprised to see her expression changes so quick. As Yuki pouted, she told him that its' name is Koi no Uta and it's one of the song that would put Yutaro on a mood swing, so she made him promise to keep it a secret. "Yeah, I will. Though you don't really have to show anything to me if it's such a big deal." Though he was tad curious of what Yuki is about to show him, he really doesn't want to poke into someone's business if it's something touchy. But since she had shown it to him, he might just as well watch it.

Hiruka watched through the whole tape in silence, paying attention to every detail showed within it. Yutaro seems to be really happy with the girl that he loves. Of course, he could notice that she was also Yuki's late mother. They both bear striking similarities, after all. It reminded him of the first time he ever fallen in love and to go side by side with the person he adorned. Everything was sweet at first, but it all ended in tragic.

While Yuki hurried away somewhere, Yui seemed to have come over that he didn't notice. She then went on explaining that it was indeed Yutaro's late wife, and told him about the memories she made with her and the three members of the band. "I see. You all seemed to have a lot of memorable moments with each other, hmm? Yutaro-san sure is lucky to have met a good person like that." He said with a smile, and there's a tiny hint of envy in it.

Listening to Yui, Hiruka couldn't help feeling sympathize with Yutaro. More than anyone, he understands how it felt to not having the presence of the one you love the most by your side anymore. Hana must be a very special person for him to stay pent up in eight long years like that. He once had wished that he could have met someone like that, but all he had received, is nothing but betrayal. Hiruka chuckled while scratching the back of his head when hearing the reason why Jun showed so much disdain towards him, "That's understandable, so I didn't mind it much, really. It's not my first time hearing such threatening so no hard feeling at all."

And when Yui expressed her opinion that Hiruka is good for him, and hoped that he would be ready for Yutaro, he just smiled in assurance, "Yutato-san is a good man, but I've considered him to be a precious friend of mine. I might have those 'bad habits' like you said, but even so, I strictly follow my own rules too. Let's just say that, at the moment, I've lost my faith in a stable and steady relationship, so that will have to wait. But you don't have to worry. I'll keep my eyes on him whenever he's around."

Moments later, Yuki returned with a box of cookies, and went on saying that her dad was intolerant of lactose of any kind, which Hiruka couldn't help spurting a chuckle at, "Is that so? Well, if that's the case then make sure he stay far away from them, okay?" He could only imagine how it would look like if Yutaro was to drink a whole cup of milk. He went on the chat with Yuki and have a few cookies from the box that she had brought.

"Since you have told me about your secret, how about I told you mine in return?" Hiruka said to her, apparently sparked up her excitement once again, "When I was around your age, there was a boy that I'm really close with. Coincidentally, he had the same name as your tou-san too. We would always do things together and never once would we be apart. But one day, both of us have to move. He moved to Hokkaido while I moved to Hiroshima. Which means, we're both at the two poles of Japan. But the day before we parted, we have made a promise that one day, we will see each other again, and we'll be together forever."

Hiruka then gazed up at the ceiling, "Even til' now, I still hold to that promise. It's a little bit childish of me, don't you think?" He grinned before sticking out his pinky finger, "So now both of us knew about each other secrets, let's promise not to tell anyone about them, okay?"

And, both of them did the pinky swear. Looking at his watch, Hiruka noticed that lunch time is over for about 10 minutes already. He then stood up, "It's going to be quite busy at my salon in the afternoon so I have to get back to work now." He smiled and said to Yuki. She then insisted to walk with him to the ground floor of the studio. "I'll see you again. Say 'hi' to your tou-san for me, okay?" Hiruka ruffled her head and waved to her as he walked away, until he's nowhere to be seen in the crowd of people. He took the train back to Arisu's and continued with his afternoon shift, earning a couple of questions and curious look from his colleagues, but he didn't mind it much.

It was another energetic working shift in the evening. The whole salon was filled with talking, bustling of people, and endless hair-cutting. People walked in and out one after one and the four of them didn't seem to have a moment to rest their hands. And, they have to talk and chat with their customers to keep them entertained with their stories too. Such is just an aspect of the life of a hairdresser. But Hiruka always enjoyed it the fullest. It had been 4 years since he graduated from the Institute and worked here. Kasumi wouldn't accepted any other hairdressers to work for Arisu's, save her family members, but thanks to the fact that Hiruka is a close friend with Kazuki and Madoka back when they're still in training, he managed to land a spot here.

When it was their closing time at 6:30PM, they decided to go for a yakiniku - Kasumi's treat, of course. Some grilled meat over a glass of beer is always a treat for life and the four of them will certainly enjoy it to the fullest. When they got there, the four of them chatted about all sorts of thing while the meats are being grilled as they drank their glasses to the last drop. "Nee, Ruka-kun. Care to enlighten us more about the cute little girl who happened to come across our place earlier today? It's rare to see you actually leave your work to look after someone else child like that." Kasumi raised the question.

"Hmm? You mean Yuki-chan?" Hiruka turned to his boss after gulping down his cup of beer, then smiled lightly, "Like I've said, she's just the daughter of a friend I've just happened to meet at Makoto's bar. He's one of the rare good guys I've came across in a while. He's quite an interesting fella, if I must say. And some of his friends did give me a bit of an entertainment." Then, he threw Kazuki a rather mischievous look while leaning his head against his fist, "I believe you would flip out if you ever got a chance to meet him, Kazu-kun."

"What do you mean by that?" Kazuki tilted his head in questioning, "I don't remember that there's a whole lot of people that can actually make me 'flip out', y'know. Why don't you just tell me already?"

"No can't do." Hiruka bluntly stated, "I gotta respect his privacy, and the last thing I wanted is to have a bunch of stalkers following me around just because I'm an acquaintance of his. Thank you very much."

Kazuki pouted, "You're always like that, Ruka-chan."

"Still, since you've considered this guy a friend of yours, that means you're not gonna... you know, with him?" Madoka asked while munching away some beef.

"You know that I have my rules, Mado-cchi. Worry not, I'm still not going to risk settling down with another guy, only for him to turn out to be a jerk in the end, for now. Besides, it doesn't hurt making a friend every now and then. Aren't I not sociable enough?" Hiruka calmly replied with a wink.

Madoka smirked, "Heh, I really pity them though. Apparently they didn't have enough eyesight to know what they've missed."

Their meal went on enjoyably as they all have a lot of topics to share, which they didn't have a chance to intrigue each other during their shifts. Most of them are about their personal lives and a couple of gossips about what are going on around the world. The Miyashiro siblings are one of those few Hiruka can completely trust, ever since they are school mates back in the Institute, in the middle of all the trickery and jerks of the city.

The three of them parted way when their meal is finished. When Hiruka made it back to his apartment, Makoto was already in his suits and about to head for Ahnenerbe. Of course, since Hiruka didn't have anything else better to do, he just tagged along with his brother, as always. Makoto hadn't been having much of an eventful day, as he mostly stay within home to sleep until afternoon and laze around after that, until the time when he got to open his bar, while Hiruka, on the contrary, has a lot to retell.

It seemed that Yutaro didn't come by today, but that wasn't too much of a matter either. Hiruka had spotted a nice guy a couple of hours after Makoto opened Ahnenerbe, and they both engage in quite a pleasant conversation, just like all of those whom he had hooked up with. And, it wasn't long before he waved Makoto goodbye as he waltzed out the bar, arm in arm with his newly partner for the night.

Nothing's going to stop him from having some quality time, after all.

After another night of heat, Hiruka quietly left the hotel where he and the stranger he had just met at Ahnenerbe, without even looking back, as usual. As he made his way back to his apartment, he took out the small mirror he usually carried with him and sighed as he saw numerous of kiss marks over his neck and collar. This time, it was a young, cherry boy who looks as if he had just graduated from high school. Of course, the boy was so inexperienced that Hiruka had to take the lead, but in a moment of carelessness, he had forgotten to tell him not to leave any hickeys. Next time I gotta be more specific.

It's not like that he was worried about them being seen, because unlike the amateurs, he knows just which types of skin products to deal with kiss marks, Hiruka doesn't want Kazuki to make fun of him tomorrow when he set off to work. Like Makoto, the three of them also know about his habit, so it wasn't too much of a big deal. He's just isn't too much of a person who would shamelessly be so open about his sex life. When he had gotten back home, Makoto had already settled for the night, as expected, so there's no need for him to ponder around much. So, he just gotten change into his comfy home attire, and rest for the day. He might not need too many hours of sleep, but he certainly can't look like a bat in the morning.

When morning come, Hiruka got up and taken care of the 'leftovers' from last night, before walking out and saw Makoto sitting and reading a newspaper over a cup of coffee, as usual. "So, a cherry boy this time, huh? How was it?" He raised the question the moment Hiruka sat down and had some toast and eggs that his brother had made. "Well, he certainly is energetic. Maybe a little bit too 'excited', but at least he lasted long enough." Hiruka replied as he munched away his meal, "You too. It's been two months since the last time I saw you coming home all 'hot and bothered'. Restraining yourself too much is bad for you, y'know." He teased a little bit.

"Puh-lease. Unlike my insatiable nii-chan, I'm not a sex fiend, nii-chan." Makoto stuck out his tongue at his pervy older brother.

"That's exactly why you're still alone." Hiruka snickered.

"The same goes for you." Makoto coldly replied.

After a few more rounds of kidding around with his brother, Hiruka gathered his stuffs into his bag and set off to Arisu's. Another long day of cutting and nipping begins, without much of a fuss. The lines of customers waiting for their turn to have their hair done are almost endless. Hiruka has always been used to working under pressure, so it doesn't really affected him much.

The day passed by in pretty much the same manner like everyday. After the last customer left, it was already quite late. Hiruka bid goodbye to his colleagues and walked home. He put his headphone on and hummed the melody of his favorite songs, as usual. On his way, he intended to stop by the cat cafe shop where he stopped by with Yutaro and Yuki the other day. The drinks there was good. However, before he could enter the shop, he noticed that he was being followed. Calmly walked into an empty alley nearby, Hiruka stood with his back leaned against the floor and his arms crossed.

"Well, well. What do we have here?" A talk, hulky thug that looked like a yankee approached Hiruka while holding a baseball club, grinning viciously, with two other goons walking just behind him, "You're such a cute little lad, ain't ya? Say, I don't wanna go all violently on you, that would be bad. So why don't you just leave that bag you're carrying, and you leave without a scratch. Sounds fair, no?"

Hiruka sighed and gazed at the three of them in a bored manner, "I have a much better idea. Either you suckers get the hell out of my way, or I'll specifically give each of you a special shaving section. Your choice?"

"Oooh, looks like someone just got some nerve." The leading guy played with his club as the three of them began to cornered Hiruka. However, unexpectedly, he suddenly heard a familiar voice, yelling the three thugs to stop. "Yutaro-san?" Hiruka looked at the guy with surprise. This scene too, was familiar, and it brought up the memories of that he would have never forgotten once again. Yutaro managed to land a punch, but it was not long before the guy was overpowered, and pinned to the ground.

"Hey, you mull heads." Hiruka threw a rock at the head of the thug who was pinning Yutaro down, thus gaining their attention again, "Stop being a bully. Aren't I the one you're cornered in the first place?"

"Gah, so you want to die first? Fine by me." One of them, apparently enraged by his words, charged towards Hiruka and was about to punched him. However, Hiruka evaded the fist by mere inches as the punch landed painfully on the wall instead. "Too slow." He remarked before giving the thug a kick with his knee into his abdomen. The sheer force of the kick was strong enough to put him out.

Surprised, the remaining two thugs also ran towards him. Hiruka then evaded the baseball club swinging at him almost effortlessly, before doing a handstand flip and kicked both of them in the face with a split. Soon enough, the three thugs now lied facedown pathetically on the ground. "Yutaro-san, you okay?" Hiruka then approached Yutaro and asked worriedly as he helped him to stood, then he threw his arm over his shoulder, helping him to walk, "Let's go, my apartment is just a few block away from here."

When they've made it to Hiruka's apartment, Hiruka then patched Yutaro's wounds up, which was apparently a little painful. "That's should do it." He smiled and said after applying the band-aids, then blinked a little at the guy's apparent surprise look after what had happened, before blurt out a laugh, "You must be wondering why someone who looked like a twig like me could pulled that off, huh? It's fine, since I did get that a lot. I may not look like it, but got black belts in karate and judo, and I'm once the vice president of the acrobatic club back in high school. Wanna see my muscles?" Hiruka held his arm in front Yutaro.

"I really appreciate your heroic deeds, Yutaro-san, but next time, please make sure that you're not overpowered first." Hiruka teased a little before smiling, feeling genuinely grateful, "But still, thanks. That was a nice punch. I never thought there would still be someone who would throw themselves in for me like that."

"Is that so? Well, I'm glad." Hiruka smiled to Yutaro. He still couldn't help reminiscing over what had just happened. Of course, how could he have ever forgotten? It had always been something that would follow him wherever he goes in his life. And he knows, it will keep clinging to him as something he would irreplaceable, at least, until he can meet that person again. He also could notice that Yutaro was more or less blushing the whole time when he patched him up, which Hiruka had to tried his best not to blurt out laughing again. To think about it, it's been a while since the last time someone else rather than me and Makoto come to our apartment. He sheepishly thought.

Hiruka was about to ask Yutaro to stay for dinner, before the man told him that Yuki went to look for Hiruka at Arisu's, which surprised him a little bit, "Is that so? She also went there the other day. Though I gotta say, I'm impressed by how far she could go by herself. But still, it wasn't a short ride from my place to your studio. She's a clever girl, but you should look after her more carefully." Hiruka remarked, and it was not long before Yutaro asked him to go to his place for dinner, which he smiled in reply, "Of course, I'd love to go to your place. Just hope I'm not too much of a bother for a certain someone." It was clear who Hiruka's sarcasm is aiming at.

And, with that said, the two of them made their ways towards Yutaro's apartment. This time, it was a peaceful walk as there was no robber-wannabe showed up to confront them anymore. They chatted and began to reveal more about themselves as they talked to each other. After 15 minutes of walking, they got there. And Hiruka was greeted with Yuki's dramatic gasp as usual, the moment the door to the apartment was opened. "Yo, Yuki-chan." He smiled to her then looked inside, seeing Yui was doing the cooking, "Hey there, Yui-san. Hope you don't mind having another person joining for dinner."

---

It's a rather short post, but I couldn't think of anything else LOL
Glad you like it. It's been a while since I updated that list though >.>
I know that one, though I haven't had time to watch it yet.

After greeting both Yuki and Yui, Hiruka noticed that two other members of the band, which are Jun and Kenta. He tilted his head and smiled to them, completely not concerning himself about the glare he was given - which was short-lived since Jun got a smack on the head by Yuki. Other than that, the others seemed not to have any problem with his presence. Though he found it a bit odd that the adults are watching Sailor Moon, and they seemed to be really enjoy it. They really are carefree people, huh? Lucky them.

When Yui and everyone else noticed that bandages that Hiruka had put on Yutaro, they all correctly guessed that the man lost a fight earlier, at which Yutaro pouted like never before. Of course, it was such a scene that anybody would have found to be amusing, and he was no different as he let out a chuckle. "Yutaro-san still pack quite a punch so please don't make fun of him too much." Hiruka remarked as to save the guy from any further embarrassment.

With that said, Hiruka invited himself into the apartment and sat down at the dining table. Moments later, the young woman named Aya - whom Yutaro once told him about, entered and introduced herself, which he also did the same. The conversation flows quite pleasantly as they all eat over their meals. The food really confirmed that Yui is one hell of a cook and Hiruka had managed to get her to give him the recipe of the miso soup they had. They all were quite lively, if he got to admit. Both Yui and Aya are thrilled when they heard that Hiruka is a hairdresser, and is working at one of the most popular salon in the city. They both had him promised to give them a discount if they ever visited the Arisu's. Again, Kasumi would kill him if she heard that.

After the meal, Hiruka sat at the kotatsu table along with Yutaro, Junta and Yui. The fight which happened earlier was brought up, and the other two made fun of Yutaro again. They asked Hiruka to show them a few moves, and he impressed them again with a perfect split. As they were talking, Yuki suddenly walked over to Hiruka and asked him to come with her to her bedroom, alone, which he gladly accepted. However, instead of the bedroom, he was dragged to the hallway. "Is there anything you want to show me, Yuki-chan?" He asked as the small girl bounced up and down as she pointed at a rather old picture hanging on the wall.

And, to say that it was the most surprising thing that Hiruka had ever seen in years wouldn't be too much of an exaggeration.

Hiruka shockingly stared at the picture, with his eyes widened for a short moment. The boy with the short messy hair is undoubtedly Yutaro, and the boy with the pigtail next to him in the picture looked exactly like Hiruka when he was small. He would have thought that this was just merely a coincidence, if not for the fact that he also had a same picture, which he had always endeared for years already. No, I still got to make sure.

He patted on Yuki's head and smiled, "That boy in the picture looks similar to me when I was small, but I don't think I've ever met your tou-san before, so maybe it's just a coincidence. Let's go back to the others, shall we?"

So, Hiruka and Yuki went back to the others who are still sitting and lazing around in the living room. "Yutaro-san, mind if I borrow you for a moment?" Hiruka smiled and asked the man, as he took him into the bathroom. "I just remembered that I forgot to check your body more careful earlier for any possible bruises or wounds. So, can I take a look?"

And shamelessly, Hiruka grabbed Yutaro's shirt and rolled it up the moment he got the affirmation. Yutaro also has a well-toned body, but he had seen and been on bed with way too many hunks to even feel awkward now, let alone turning him on. Sweeping a careful gaze through the man's torso, Hiruka was once again shocked when he saw what had finally confirmed him. I see...

Trying not to make it obvious that thousands of thoughts are whirling around his mind at the moment, Hiruka pulled the shirt down and smiled to Yutaro, "Nope, it seemed that you're still in one piece. Sorry if I startled you." He smiled assuredly. And in an instance, he had made the decision. "Say, since tomorrow is Sunday, why don't you come over to my place? As a thank-you for today's meal, we can have dinner together, just the two of us. I want to know if my cooking is as good as Yui-san's. And, I have something that I really want to tell you."

Hiruka listened to the affirmative answer from Yutaro, then nodded with a light smile. "Glad that you can came. I'll do my best to please you then. Pretty sure that both of us will have a whale of a time together." He intentionally emphasized the word as both of them walked out of the bathroom, with Yutaro holding Hiruka's arm. If it was just a few hours ago, he wouldn't have felt anything, but now, he doesn't have a clue of what he should name the feeling in his heart. Nolstalgia? Relief? He just doesn't have a clue.

But just for the moment, he still has to keep his straight face. After all, his long years of struggling to find love are not for nothing.

"Yo, we're back." Hiruka raised his arm and greeted the other people in the room. Of course, Jun's glare towards him didn't escape his notice, but just like the other times, he just replied with an indifferent smile. A small glaring competition happened afterwards between Yutaro and Jun, but it ended abruptedly as the guy was pinned down by his sister. Yutaro proceeded to sit next to Yuki, while Hiruka was called to Kenta and Yui, and was showered down by their continuous teasings and questions.

He just listened to their seemingly relentless questions because he didn't even have a chance to cut in and answer. Thankfully, Aya cut in just in time and the two of them finally stopped. Hiruka chuckled, "Well, I certainly can understand how it feels. It's amazing how Yutaro-san had gotten to be friend wih so many colorful people like you guys. I too have to confess that I haven't met a good friend like him for a really long time, so it wasn't just him who should be glad."

Then, when Aya patted Hiruka's back and told him about Yutaro's late wife, he smiled and stated ambiguously, "I guess that even if his outlook had changed, even after so many years, he's still the same on the inside, hmm?" He could notice a hint of questioning on the woman's face after hearing his reply, but she walked away when she was called the moment Yutaro approached both of them from Yuki's room. He smiled to the guy, "I should consider myself lucky that she likes me that much, huh?"

Not long after, Jun was dragged to bed by Yui because of his continual glaring. When Yutaro brought up the question as of the reason why, Kenta replied by saaying what Jun said, about Hiruka being slanderous and things like that, at which Hiruka chuckled, "It's not like one could expect to be well-liked by everyone wherever they go anyway. I'm not really concern so please don't trouble yourself with it. I'm sure we can be friends soon."

And, there was the time for departing. Hiruka chatted with Yutaro a bit more as they walked down the stairs. "It's been a fun night for me too. It's been a while since I made some new friends aside from the guys at my work." He brushed his hair and caressed Yutaro's face with his other hand, as if he wanted to once again feeling the sensation thought to never be felt again after so many years, "I'll see you tomorrow, okay? And I'm sure it will be a memorable night."

With that said, he turned his back and put his headphone on, while waving to Yutaro before disappearing into the night. The song went on as Hiruka gazed up on the sky and looked at the twinkling stars, while making way home on the deserted street. Memories of a good time that had long passed return to him in almost an instant.

How much he still cherished the time when he could still be so innocent, before the harsh reality struck him like a bus.

The promise to be together forever, would you still remember? Would you still hold any feelings for the childish, yet beautiful friendship we once had? The questions popped up in his head, but whether he could manage to say them tomorrow's night or not is a whole different matter. Yutaro had managed to find a person who loved him with all of her heart, even until the day she passed away. But what about him? He's just, like the guy Jun said, a promiscuous person whose luck in love is terrible. Would this actually get anywhere, or it will ended just like any other of his so-called 'love stories'?

He doesn't know for sure, and he's not certain that he would care. After all, it is still likely that things will just remain that way.

The next day soon approached, and Hiruka had already been up til early to prepare everything for that night. Even Makoto found that it was weird, because it had been more than a year since the last time his brother would took some effort for a 'romantic evening' like this. "Which lucky guy are you going to invite tonight? I don't remember you ever make dinner for your target." He asked, but pretty much had figured out who this person is going to be.

Hiruka winked as he took down a bottle of wine from the cupboard, "You'll be surprise for sure."

Spending a half of his salary this month, Hiruka bought some of the most luxurious ingredients he could come across, and spent the whole afternoon making food, while Makoto helped in setting out the table with roses and candles. When everything is ready, Hiruka took a thorough bath to get rid of the usual unpleasant smell he got from sweat and hair sprays, and apply his favorite cologne. He also decided not to overdress with formal clothes, instead wearing a black shirt with the top button unplugged, partly revealing his chest, his usual jeans and his hair tied up into a ponytail. He remembers that Madoka once said he looks his best like this.

Makoto, as sensible as usual, had already left for Ahnenerbe to leave them some privacy, though whether the moment he returned the two of them would be clinging to each other sleeping without a piece of clothes to cover them or not is beyond him.

Setting out the freshly made food, which are beef Wellington and Caesar salad on the dining table, Hiruka hid a picture of he playing with the boy back then at the old treehouse inside the handkerchief meant for Yutaro. All preparations are done, he sat quietly, waiting until Yutaro arrived. Even right now, he's still not certain of how to feel, but he still anticipated the moments to come, nonetheless.

---

Even I am anticipating on what to comes xD

Hiruka sat at the table while surfing Twitter as he patiently waited for Yutaro to arrive. There's currently nothing much going on around, except for a few selfies Kazuki had just posted earlier in the afternoon when they were working. The guy was pretty much a hot boy, even on the Internet, so the numbers of people who followed and tweeted him everyday are gargantuan. Asides from that, Hiruka just checking out a few pieces of clothes that he had been keeping an eye on. The food is waiting in the oven and the bottle of wine is ready to be unplugged, all that takes now is for doorbell to ring. Hiruka hasn't a clue of what to anticipate after all of this just yet, but at least, he is almost certain that what is to come is for the best of the two of them, after all those years.

And, the moment finally came as the doorbell rang. "Coming." He said as he checked his clothes and his hair a little bit before walking to the door of the apartment. When he opened the door, he was greeted with the sight of a Yutaro dressing differently from his usual jagged style, holding two potted plants - one was carnation and one was gardenia. He couldn't help chuckling at the two flowers, since he perfectly aware of what their meanings are. He shook his head when Yutaro told him about being under dressed, "No, that's fine. You look great as usual. Come in, please." He said and retrieved the potted plants from the guy and placed them beside the window.

When Yutaro took his seat, Hiruka took the beefs from the oven and placed them in two plates, and set them out on the table, along with a bowl full of Caesar salad. Under the dimming light of the candle, he could almost be confident that this is the most romantic dinner for two that he had ever made, even the ones he once made for his long list of exes couldn't match up either. The primary reason probably comes from the man sitting on the opposite side of him right now.

"I decided to make some Western food today, since I thought making Japanese food was a bit bland. Hope you enjoy it. Please tell me if my cooking could match that of Yui-san's." Hiruka said with wink while unplugged the cork of the wine bottle. He gave Yutaro only a moderate amount, having remembered Yui once said that aside from being intolerant to lactose, he's not too much of a drinker either.

The two of them dined while talking casually like every other time they met. Hiruka recounted his father ws a famous chef, so in a way, this love had passed down to both him and Makoto, the kitchen has always been a favorite place of him since he was just a kid, so if he hadn't become a hairdresser, he might have become a chef instead. He also shared that he once made dinners like this for his exes and also for some of his friends, but they weren't nearly as nice as tonight. Just like that, minutes turned into hours, and they really had had fun, both holding the same mutual feelings for each other.

Eventually, what comes just had to come. The moment Yutaro reached for the handkerchief, the picture Hiruka had placed inside fell down on his lap. He watched every expression that the guy made after picking up the picture, a light smile presented on his lips as ever. Hiruka slowly stood up and walked to the window which is just a few steps away from their table. He gazed at the night scenery outside, with colorful light filling every corner of the city.

"We might not be able to see each other again for a long time, and now we have to live so far away. But if we ever crossed path again, I will definitely have become stronger, and no one would pick on me again. So, shall we do one last pinky swear? One day, we will be together, no matter what happens." Hiruka spoke with a calm tone, reminiscing all the words that he once said back then, "Did you know that... never once in my life had I ever stopped clinging to those words back then?"

Hiruka turned his back to face Yutaro, with the very same smile so many years ago, "We meet again at last, Yucchi."

Hiruka sets his gaze outside the window once more, gazing far into the distance. He has said all he that wanted to say, facing the person who once was his everything so many years ago. He was happy, his smile was sincere. It felt as if he had managed to find something precious after having lost it after what feels like eternity. Hiruka just wanted to immerse himself in this sole moment, wishing it to be a sweet dream that would never ended.

But, this isn’t some fairytales that they both once enjoyed when they were kids. This is reality. As much as he understands how much Yutaro and he wanted to rebuild all that they have lost in the long years of separation, it’s a fact that can’t be changed that they weren’t happy-go-round children anymore. They have grown up, and have changed, so much that they didn’t even realize each other at first sight as they used to.

It cannot be denied that, they walked on their own different paths.

Hiruka was lost in his thoughts that he didn’t realize that Yutaro was approaching him from behind. He flinched a bit when feeling the familiar warmth wrapped around him, telling him how mean he was for keeping secret from his best friend. Hiruka smiled lightly, “It’s not your fault. I didn’t realize you when we first met either." It's only added how much had time changed both of us. He thought, but didn't say it in words. They were fated to walk on their own ways ever since they were separated back then, it seems.

I have to refrain myself, before it gets too deep. Hiruka lightly clenched his fist and reminded himself, but loosened up, and placed his hand over Yutaro's. But at least for now, I want our reunion to be memorable.

And, afterwards, sitting on the couch, both of them reminisced all the memories they once shared long ago as kids. Leaning his head against Yutaro’s shoulder, for an instance, Hiruka almost felt like he was returning to a time when he was so blissfully innocent. A time before he came to his realization that he could rely on no one but himself.

Just like that, time passed by quickly, until both of them fell asleep on the couch, still holding to each other. When Makoto returned, the sight before his eyes was not what he had expected, but he smiles at it nonetheless, knowing how his brother had finally be able to find the happiness that he had lost, even just a little bit. He quietly draped a blanket over the two sleeping persons on the couch before retreating back to his own room, letting them treasure the precious moments they could be together.

Eventually, morning approaches. Makoto yawned and stretched his arms as he walked out of his room, finding only the black-haired man lying on the couch. “Mornin’, Nanase-san.” Makoto greeted when he saw Yutaro stirring, “Nii-chan’s probably left for his work already. Want some breakfast?”

Makoto made some omelette and toasts for breakfast with Yutaro helping out as a 'thank you' for the blanket he gave him and Hiruka last night when they were still cuddling over each other on the couch. The meal went on rather quiet, if not awkward, with only a few sentences exchanged between them. Makoto doesn't know what was on Yutaro's mind, so instead he just focused on eating away his meal and reading the newspaper. It keeps going like that, until the guy spoke up and broke the awkward silence between them, remarking of how good his cocktail was.

"Well, thanks. I did pick up a good thing in the past long years, huh?" Makoto took a sip from his coffee cup and let out a sigh, "I can't believe you have already forgotten me too, Nanase-san. Remember all the soccer and dodgeball matches we used to have as kids back then, in that empty yard near or houses? I suppose time really did more or less make people forget things, huh?"

He put the newspaper down on the table and gazed at Yutaro, "It took me a couple of times, but I was certain that it was you all along. But you and nii-chan are so oblivious despite once being inseparable. Still, I'm glad that he has really brightened up since the day you two met a month ago. And by how enthusiastic you flirted with him, I suppose you're no different. He told me about your friends and your daughter. How you have met wonderful friends and have had a wonderful life. Fate really has been kind to you after we left Miyagi, it seemed."

Makoto stood up and walked to the counter and took out from inside the drawer a couple of pictures, which were rather old. They showed a younger Hiruka with his hands tied, his uniform torn and bruises covered all over his body. "It would be painful to reenact this, but since nii-chan wasn't here, I think he won't mind if I tell you. I believe you still remember how badly nii-chan was treated since he was a kid just because of his appearance. After we moved, it was way worse. He dated for the first time back in high school and for him it was like a lifesaver. Yet the guy whom he went out with was a complete jerk, who showed his true face after a couple of months. And this is what that fucker did to Nii-chan."

He passed the pictures over to Yutaro, "When I found him in that storage, never had I seen him to be so broken and betrayed. And I know that something inside him had changed. Nii-chan told me to take these pictures so that whenever he felt like he was faltering, he could just look at them to remind himself that he must never be weak again. Do you know how painful it is to watch him struggling so, so hard and how he hardened himself from such a sweetie to become rockier? I could only help him as much, as he told me they were all obstacles that he had to overcome himself."

Makoto sighed as he lit up a cigarette, "Your friends probably have told you things like how he was nothing more than a slanderous slut who was trying to take advantage of you or shits like that. Well, they aren't wrong. Even after leaving school, nii-chan's love life was a complete disaster, and all the guys whom he dated were also complete assholes. He loved with all of his heart, yet all he received was betrayal. He used to be a crybaby, but now he doesn't shed a tear at the saddest of things. He had given up on love, and developed a habit of sleeping around with any guys who caught his sight when he was at my bar. Nii-chan originally intended to lay his hand on you when you two met, you know. Luckily things didn't go that far or this day would't even come."

He exhaled a gray breath of smoke, "Judging by how much nii-chan had cheered up since he met you, I think I can rest assure that you will take good care of him. It's not gonna be easy to get him heads over heels again, but I don't want to watch him suffer all by himself anymore. That's why, do your best." Makoto suddenly leaned closer to Yutaro and lowered his tone of voice, "But do remember that I will be keeping a good eye on you. I made all the jerks that nii-chan went out with paid handsomely for what they did, and I will be quick to add you up in the list if you do anything that hurts his already broken heart. Don't ever forget that."

Makoto listened to Yutaro's promise to never again hurting his brother's heart. He stares into the eyes of the guy, as if trying to confirm whether every word that he had spoken was genuine or not. Then, he casually straightened himself up, light up a cigarette and exhaled a white smoke calmly, "Just be sure to engrave those words to the deepest of your mind. It's not like that I'm overly being worrisome about my brother. He can perfectly taking care of himself. But I'm not up to some random guy just came and raise him up then throw him deep down into a bottomless pit another time. If you still consider nii-chan to be your friend, even after all those years, I'm sure you understand that."

He then collected the dishes of their finished meal on the table and put them into the sink, then stretched his arms, "Feel free to hang around here anytime if you want. Nii-chan would be out working almost the whole day, so I'm pretty much the only one around daytime, before I went to open my bar." Then, he held up his phone and swung it in front of Yutaro, "You probably should leave for now though. Yui said she's going to come here personally to drag you to work if you didn't turn up by yourself. I don't want her here turning this whole complex upside down looking for you so you'd better be stead fast."

---

Hiruka had set off to work while Yutaro was still sleeping soundly over the couch in his apartment. Honestly, he never even thought that there would be such an encounter like that yesterday. Everything just being revealed all of a sudden, so fast that despite having tried to act as if he was truly calm and stoic, his feelings were truly a chaos on the inside. But, he cannot deny that he'd never thought there would be a day when the images of Yutaro could fill up every corner of his mind like this. Though he had decided that it is best that they remain this way, just the mere thought of the guy is enough to make him happy.

"Hey look, it seems that someone's really in a good mood today." Kazuki draped himself over Hiruka while he was eating away his convenient bento at lunch break, "Has the legendary sex fiend finally found someone daring enough to tame him?"

"Am I that much of a slutty gigolo to you?" Hiruka sneered and poked on his colleague's forehead. He suddenly realized that he had been smiling since this morning without even noticing, "It's nothing much, really. Just happen to have a pretty good dinner with an old friend back in my hometown. It's been awhile since I actually met anyone from there, so there's no reason not to be happy, right?"

"Yeah, yeah." Kazuki snickered, then grinned mischievously, "But being able to make the indomitable Hiru-chan smiling happily like this, I can almost be certain that this gal is no ordinary person to you, hmm?"

Hiruka shrugged, then turned back to his bento. Another light smile managed to make its' way on his face, "I suppose you could say so."

Another long working day eventually passed by just as quick as it comes. Nothing much seems to be different today in comparison with any other days, rather than the now frequent visits from Yuki. She seems to have developed quite a liking to stop by here watching the four of them do their jobs. Since she was such a nice kid and they were all kid lovers, they didn't have any problem with it. In fact, Kasumi even felt quite pleasant with the small girl's presence as she is attracting more customer to their salon thanks to her adorableness.

It was a night on Kasumi's treat today so the four of them made their way to their usual yakiniku for dinner. Over their cups of bear, they went on talking about all sorts of stuffs that had happened in their personal lives recently. Kasumi's secondary job as a swimsuit model seems to be on the rising, Madoka is still doing his best with his own brand of hair conditioner and Kazuki's love life is as colorful as ever. It almost feels as if in comparison to these siblings, Hiruka's life was as "quiet" and "uneventful" as it could be, with him sticking to the same routine for almost a whole year. Not that he didn't enjoy it though. But, that is before the unexpected arrival of his long-lost friend in his life just barely a little than a month ago that had shaken his life up.

"About the cute little girl that usually stop by our place recently. Yuki-chan, was it? Didn't you say she was raised by a single dad who is your acquaintance, eh, Hiru-chan?" Kazuki raised the question as he picked a piece of beef from the grill and chewed it, "Care to enlighten us more about this gal?"

"Hmm? Oh yeah." Hiruka was sipping from his cup of beer when he heard the question directing at him, "Like I said. He's just a nice guy I happened to meet at my brother's place. You could say that we've been friends since. He seemed as interested in me as I was interested in him, if I must say."

"Someone that can actually caught the attention of the indomitable sex fiend, huh? Must be formidable, indeed." Kasumi commented, "Judging from your cheerful face since this morning, I suppose this guy have some sorts of deep connection with you, huh?"

"As perceptive as ever, Sumi-san." Hiruka winked before placing his index finger in front of his lips and grinned, "But that's still a secret for now. I'll reveal to you guys sometimes later. Perhaps when you can actually get me drunk?"

The four of them burst into laughter and continued with their pleasant chatting before it was time for them to depart. Hiruka bid goodbye to his co-workers before taking the opposite direction to make it back to his apartment. He isn't in the mood to go to Ahnenerbe tonight as he had decided since last night that he should take a 'break' from getting laid a bit, and since Yui had told him that she's going to keep Yutaro and his friends real busy starting from this weak, it's unlikely that he could meet his newly-found friend even if he head there, so going back home is the best option right now.

After taking a long, steamy bath, Hiruka let himself fell on his bed. There's really nothing for him to do so he might just as well sleep until the morning. Suddenly, a rather naughty idea came up in his mind. He took a selfie half-naked and made rather seducing pose before sending to a certain friend of his, "Whatcha doin' tonight? ;)" He typed and sent. Grinning mischievously, he could only guess what kind of expression the guy would have seeing it.

It wasn't long before Hiruka received a reply from Yutaro, which was a rather failed attempted to mimic Hiruka's pose earlier, as the picture was blurred and Yutaro actually made himself looks rather funny than sexy. Chuckling, he shove his phone back under his pillow before falling slowly into his slumber. Strangely, for some reasons, he had never been able to sleep so soundly like this, since a long time a go that he had actually forgotten.

Just as peaceful as that, a week passed by. Even after having found out that they have always knew each other all along, there hasn't been any radical changes in the way both Hiruka and Yutaro acted around each other. Hiruka was pleasant to be near Yutaro, just like he always was so long ago. Of course, they are no longer kids, they could not enjoy life as freely as when they were younger. They have their own lives and were busy with their jobs. But that doesn't mean they can be stopped from meeting up with each other almost on a daily basis whenever they are free.

Perhaps, this is just way better than to fall in love itself. Hiruka thought.

Sunday eventually comes. Hiruka had gotten up pretty early to prepare even though it was his day off. The reason was that he had agreed with Yutaro and Yuki that he would have a 'date' with them at the amusement park just happen to be near his workplace. He tied his hair up into a pony tail and wore a white shirt with its' sleeves rolled up, paired with a navy blue waistcoat and a pair of black tight jeans, along with a pair of black-framed glasses. He's just someone who knows exactly how to dress for the occasion, so he's not shy in putting his 'talent' into good use.

This sure feels like old time, huh?" Makoto commented as he sat drinking his coffee while watching his brother walked towards the door, "You used to be enthusiastic like this whenever you hung out with him, didn't you? Why don't just give him a chance?"

"I know. But... not yet." He replied to his brother with a light smile before departing to the amusement park.

Hiruka sat at the bench in front of Arisu's and played games on his phone while waiting for Yutaro and Yuki to arrive. He couldn't help noticing just how quite a few of people passing by were talking about him, probably about his long hair. It has always been so for the past 25 years of his life so he didn't even feel anything by such comments anymore. He had tried to dress no to stand out to much but still keeping a sense of attractiveness, though he could not really deny that his hair is what gaining him so much attention, although he doesn't really want to. He suddenly thought of how would Yutaro dresses when he turned up.

And it didn't take long until he got his answer. Hiruka heard his name was being called by a certain familiar girl, and turned to greet her with a smile. "Good morning, Yuki-chan." In return though, he was greeted with her request to do her hair like Sailor Moon. He blinked for a few seconds then smiled to the little girl, "Like Sailor Moon.. You mean, you want to do that odango hairstyle, right? Okay, let's see what I've got."

Hiruka then proceeded to tie Yuki's hair into two pigtails and skillfully twirled them into buns, and finishing with two pieces of red ribbons he happened to carry with him. And the result turn out quite well. Yuki looks as if she's cosplaying. "Here, how do you like it?" He smiled and gave her his mirror so she can watch herself.

Yutaro commented that it was Yuki's first time going to an amusement park and that they should prepare for a day of fun and mild stress, "Well, I certainly feel energetic already. And from the look of it, you seemed to be too." He said, then tilted his head with a chuckle, "Although, Yucchi, I wonder since when did you decide to pursue rock punk? But it's not really my place to question your wardrobe choice though. Just prepare for curious gazes when we step into that park."

"Shall we go then?" Hiruka picked up his bag and said as the three of them made their ways towards the amusement park. The walk didn't take very long, as it was only about 10 minutes walk from Arisu's to get to the amusement park. Yuki was as enthusiastic as ever and skipping ahead while Hiruka and Yutaro just walked behind, talking casually like they always did.

The huge amusement park eventually came into their views. Since it was on weekend, it's no surprise that the place was pretty crowded. They stood in lines and wait for their turn to buy tickets, which luckily didn't turn out to be too long. Finally stepping inside the park, Hiruka asked the small girl, "Okay, Yuki-chan. What do you want to try out first?"

Hiruka could have guessed of what Yuki would have chosen for her first experience with the amusement park. Roller-coaster. "Good choice, Yuki-chan. My favorite." He winked to her before turning to Yutaro, who was already terrified at the mere suggestion. He chuckled at his sudden confess that this too is also his first time at an amusement park, and that he's never ever going on a date again if he vomits while taking a ride. "You'll never know unless you try, won't you? It's not that bad, believe me. Man's up, Yucchi." Hiruka assured while giving his best friend a pat on his back.

Stepping up in line to wait for their turn at the roller coaster contraption, Yuki asked Yutaro if he's scared and he doesn't even bother lying. Hiruka just smiled at his honesty. Then suddenly, the little girl walked up to the two of them and held their hands together, which made Yutaro visibly blushed and gave him an apologetic smile. He blinked for a few moments then turned hi face away to hide his smile and a little reddened face. The conversed and flirted with each other, as usual, with Yuki joining in from time to time, until it was their turn. They were seated at the front of the roller coaster car, with Yuki at the middle. Hiruka sat calmly as the safety bars were placed down on their bodies, but on the other side, Yutaro was the complete opposite, even going as far as saying his final words.

Hiruka just grinned as the coaster began to rolled slowly until it reached the edge of the slope, where it stopped completely. Looking down, it feels almost as if there's no bottom. Caught off guard, the coaster then sped up and skidded along the rail at light speed. "Wooooooohooooooo." Hiruka excitedly shouted out as the coaster took twists and turns almost like in a zig-zag movement along the contraption. He's always the one up to hardcore stuffs like this, so he's definitely enjoying every minute of the ride. The same probably cannot be said to a certain black hair man sitting on the other side though.

Eventually, the coaster made its' way through the whole contraption and returned to its' starting place. Hiruka fixed up his hair a little bit before turning to Yutaro with a mischievous chuckle, "Hey, Yucchi. You okay over there?"

Hiruka giggled after seeing Yutaro's talk about his first experience about his first roller-coaster, "See? I told you it wasn't that bad. At least you didn't die and I don't have to burn anything that wasn't Yuki's in your house, huh?" He said in a slight teasing manner. To think that back when they were kids, Hiruka didn't even dare to voice for himself, opting to just listen to anything those around him said, and now, he can freely tease his best friend like this. It's simply just the solid proof as of how much can a person change over time. But, it was for the better of himself after all, so he has no complain over it. The only thing that mattered is he can live his happy days once again.

They spent the rest of their time trying out anything that the amusement park got to offer. Yuki was so into the carousel that they have tried it out for several of times. Casual conversation between Hiruka and Yutaro went on, with the usual trivial topics they have been running on about anytime they met. Of course, despite his flirting, Hiruka can still notice that Yutaro's dorky traits are still the same, as if the same boy is still living despite the outer shell has changed dramatically. That alone is enough to make him happy, despite not showing it outside.

After enjoying the carousel and the spinning teacups, it's already been quite late so they just decided to find something for lunch. Yuki then asked Hiruka whether he likes taiyaki or yakisoba. "I like yakisoba more, but it's up to you, Yuki-chan. Though I don't see why we can't have both. Let's go get some, shall we?" He said and the three of them stopped by the food stalls to buy their lunch and drink. They sat at a nearby bench and enjoy the meal together happily. People looking can almost mistaking them for a family.

The three of them lazed around the amusement park and tried out other things until dusk fall. Hiruka walked with the other two to the entrance of the park and bid them farewell. On the the ride back to this apartment, he couldn't help smiling almost all the way. He truly is grateful that he can live through these happy moments once more.

When Hiruka made it back to his apartment, the door was locked, meaning that Makoto had already left for Ahnenerbe. The bar is opened for the whole week, after all, especially since business can only get better everyday. He took a quick shower and changed into a more subtle yet revealing attire and made a quick dinner for himself, and leave for the bar. He simply didn't have anything else better to do for now, so bothering his brother and enacting some conversation with the patrons there would be the best option for him to get through this night. It's a habit that's simply never gets old. Besides, he hasn't been drinking for some times now, so he might as well grab a cup or two.

His walk to the bar was uneventful as he simply put on his headphones, uncaring about all the souls that passed him by. Some ragged guys and some bad boys wannabe on the streets were whistling at him, but he didn't give a damn. Night time sure is the time when he can truly be himself, and Hiruka enjoys it the most because of that. Pushing the wooden door of Ahnenerbe, the bell hanging over it rang, signaling Makoto that his brother came in.

"Having fun?" Makoto asked as he put some ice into a glass and pour some cognac into it, as Hiruka sat down on the bench, "Though I suppose that was a rather unnecessary question, huh?"

"Yeah, it was. Really take me back to the old times." Hiruka sat down at the counter and mingle with the glass before taking a sip from it, "He was quite cute, if I must say."

"Heh, I've always thought you two were born for each other, guess that has never been wrong, after all." Makoto smirked and began mixing a cocktail.

"I guess you could say that. It was nice to see him remaining unchanged, even after all those years." Hiruka unconsciously caress his cheek, where Yutaro kissed him earlier when they departed.

Of course, such action didn't escape Makoto's eyes as his lips curved into another smirk, "Now you got me curious. How was your first date in a while turned out?"

Hiruka recounted all that had happened to Makoto, in a teasing manner obviously. The night passed by quietly. After bothering his brother, he turned his attention to some other patrons who had been eyeing him. Some were new faces and some were the frequent ones. They all flirted and showered Hiruka with compliments as of how enticing he is, but none of them did he enjoy as much as Yutaro's clumsy yet genuine speeches. He supposed ever since they came into each other's lives, many things have changed.

He spent the night with Makoto at the bar until closing time and they went back home together. Morning quickly approaches and he began another busy day at Arisu's as usual. Like everyday, the lines of customers waiting for their service were long indeed. When Hiruka finished with doing a rather flashy hairstyle for a young teenage girl, he waited for the next person in line to step in, which was a teenage-looking boy with a rather... improper bleached hair, though after a few minutes, the boy just sat there, seemingly clueless. Hiruka sighed as he approached the boy, "Okyaku-sama, you're the next person in line. How can we help you with our services?"

"J-Just slow down a bit..." Hiruka smiled reluctantly while listening to the question of the teenage boy. He gave him a quick glance. He sure looks like he ain't from around here, I suppose. He thought. "So... where do you need to go?" Hiruka asked. The boy then began to search for something. While waiting for a response, the door to the salon suddenly swung open. He turned his eyes towards it and saw that it was just a certain familiar girl. "Oh, hi Yuki-chan." He smiled and greeted her as she stepped in.

Then, she suddenly called out a strange name, which probably belonged to the young boy, and flung towards him in front of Hiruka right now. He raised his eyebrows in slight surprise. They knew each other? Yuki then turned to him and asked whether he was friends with this strange boy. The boy named Kou also showed his surprise that Hiruka know Yutaro, and Yuki enthusiastically stated that he was his boyfriend. What's more, he was also surprised that the boy was Yutaro's brother.

"Ah, no, it's not like that. We're just friends." Hiruka waved his hands in denial, then smiled, "I didn't know he have a brother though. He's never told me about you. My name's Hiruka." He extended his arms towards the boy and they shook hands. "Say, since you're looking for Yucc-... Yutaro-san, I'll take both of you to his workplace, cause he's probably isn't home right now. Okay?"

"Hey you guys, mind if I go somewhere for a while?" He raised his voice and asked his other three colleagues, "Yeah, no prob. Just be sure to be quick." Kasumi replied him. It wasn't too much of a big deal though, since leaving in a middle of work for some other things was a common thing among them. Hiruka had actually lost count of the time Kazuki and Madoka took some moments off to go somewhere already.

The three of them then boarded the next train and made their ways towards Yutaro's studio. Taking the elevator, Hiruka led the other two to the floor where Yutaro and his friends are working at. He knocked on the door and walked in with the two when received the affirmation from Yui. "Hey, I happened to come across your brother while I was working."

As observant as he is, Hiruka can definitely tell that something is wrong with the arrival of this teenage boy named Kou, who is also Yutaro's brother. Well, to call him a 'boy' wouldn't be completely true. Ahnenerbe is also a favorite place for trans men, and Hiruka had met plenty of them in the past (he even dated one back in his younger day). That's why it's pretty easy for him to tell that this guy is one, based on what he had observed all the way from Arisu's to this studio. He quietly walked behind Yutaro, knowing just how his friend is feeling at the moment.

While he supposed to feel shock and surprised at this sullen union between the brothers, the fact that Hiruka can still retain his usual calm expression seems to be what is more surprising here. Hiruka knew Yutaro better than anyone when they are still together back then, and thus, he knows very well of how strict and conservative his parents are. Having a transgender male in their family was simply unacceptable. This, and because of the fact that Yutaro has never been the one to listen to his parents, probably even now, Hiruka can almost felt pity for them. The reason why Kou left and arrived here certainly has to do with the black eye that he is having.

Hiruka quietly listened to the conversation between the two siblings, and watched as Yutaro's back disappeared behind the slammed door. Yui then sighed as she turned to him, stating how bad it is that he had learned about Yutaro's family this way. He opened his mouth, intending to say that he knew it all along so it's no surprise, but decided to hold back, and smiled to Yui. "Yeah, I can see just how bad it is." Yuki then popped in and said that if he kisses him then he would feel better, which Hiruka chuckled at, "That won't be necessary, Yuki-chan. Don't worry, I'll take care of your tou-san."

He then walked towards the door, though noticing Jun's usual death glare at him, Hiruka simply gave both him and Kenta a rather ambiguous smile, before stepping in himself. The first thing he saw is a broken phone, lying on the ground next to the wall,
seemingly was thrown in a rather violent manner by its' owner. "It seems that your family is as complicated as ever, huh? I guess there are things that just wouldn't change, after all." He said calmly, "I never knew you had another sibling though. He was born after we departed, I guess?"

Yutaro is enraged at the moment, and Hiruka knew that no matter what he says, none of them would get to the guy. So, he just simply walked up to him while his back was turned, and giving the guy a hug from behind his back. "Calm now, calm now. You'll
be fine, Yucchi." He murmured to him softly, almost like he was singing a lullaby.

This, is exactly what Hiruka used to do to cheer Yutaro up when they were still together ago whenever he has a bad mood from being punished by his parents for disobedience. If the man in front of him is truly the boy of nearly two decades ago, somehow,
Hiruka knows that this will work.

Yutaro then began to talk as of how his parents had intended to steal Yuki away so that they could take care of her, and how badly they have been treating Kou. Of course, this has been something that Hiruka would have expected from Yutaro's parents, so he didn't really feel surprise. I supposed that we all have different hardships to face. He thought, while still hugging his friend from behind, and didn't flinch away when their fingers entwined. It's true that his love life had been catastrophic for years, but he still has his understanding friends, a carefree life, a good career, and above all, a supportive family (his dad came out as a bi the day Hiruka came out). In a way, Hiruka is still pretty fortunate.

Then, Yutaro went of to rant as of how it is not fair that he had never talked to him about his family or anything, despite the fact that it's the least of things he should do if they wanted to be together, and how he had never really been able to move on from Hana's death. "Oh, Yucchi..." Hearing that, Hiruka could not help letting out a sigh as he moved away from Yutaro, standing face-to-face with him, "I don't really care whether you would confide with me about those or not. Everyone has their own problem. I've already known as much, anyway. I don't want you to feel uncomfortable by bringing them up, that's why I didn't ask about them. And I'm pretty sure that your friends would have felt the same. Whether it is fair or not, it doesn't affect how we are now. Sometimes, it's not a problem to be selfish, especially with the secrets we never wanted to disclose."

"And, am I not the same?" Hiruka smiled, "Makoto probably has told you about my little 'hobbies', right? I should have told you right away the day we met again, but I didn't, and it was my brother who actually got to tell you. But even after learning that of how slanderous I might be, you didn't abandon me like many have in my past. That alone is what I'm truly grateful of. That's why, I do not mind if there are things you don't want anyone to know."

They remained silent a for while, before Hiruka packing up, "I'm still in the middle of my work so I have to get back now. I'll be at Ahnenerbe tonight, if you want to stop by." He said with a smile, before turning his back and leave. He bid goodbye to everyone on his way, and exited the building.

Sitting on the train, Hiruka rested his head over his arm and watched as the scenery passed by quickly. For some unknown reasons, he quietly let out a sigh.

The ride on the train back to Arisu's was uneventful, as he just sat on the bench and gazed outside and watched the scenery quickly passing by. He couldn't help thinking back to all the words that Yutaro had said just earlier. It just seemed that, no matter how close they think they are, many long years of separation had really created an impasse between them. The sudden arrival of Yutaro's brother, Kou, surely had shaken a lot of things up. Of course, Yutaro is not to blame for not being able to move on from the loss of his late wife. Hiruka understands that well. But, something about it just further convinces him that perhaps this is as far as they could go.

Back at the salon, Hiruka excused his three colleagues and continued to work through the morning. Though he is acting as normal as he could, it seemingly didn't escape the eyes of Kazuki, who is also another sharply observant guy despite his carefree exterior. Of course, the four of them had always been closed, so they can notice even the smallest of changes in how each other feels. When the lunch break came, Kazuki clung to Hiruka like usual while he was eating away his bento.

"Nee, Hiru-chan. Something happened while you're away, huh?" He asked while grinning mischievously.

Hiruka was a bit surprised at how quick his feelings were noticed, but then just sighed and smiled back, "Nothing much, really. Just... a couple of things happened."

"Things that could even make the cold-hearted sex fiend have to bother, huh? Must be real troublesome things." Kazuki poked Hiruka's cheek, "You know I'm your all-time favorite soulmate, right? Just confide with cute lil' Kazuki-chan ~"

"It's okay, no big deal, really. I just can't rely on others for my problems."

"You never really relied on anyone, y'know." Kazuki pouted, as something suddenly popped up in his mind. A quirky smirk made its' way on the face of the colorful-haired boy once more, "Say, it's been a while since I actually stopped by Mako-chan's place. Shall we say we met up there and drink any probs you have away, huh?"

"Hmm? Sure. But why of all sudden?" Hiruka asked, feeling a bit suspicious as what is his colleague is up to.

"Hehe, nothing nothing. Just wanna have a little hang out between us. You must felt bored hanging out with Mako-chan solely every night too."

"Whatever." Hiruka shrugged, decided to just shook the thought off his head. Kazuki cackled slyly. Of course he had his own intentions for tonight.

The day passed by quickly and the night came just as fast. As soon as he got home, he got changed and head for Ahnenerbe as usual. And sticking true to his words, Kazuki had also came, and was chatting with Makoto while waiting for Hiruka. They sat and talked of all sorts of thing about their private lives over their glasses of liquors, until a certain black-haired young man came in and greeted Hiruka.

"Oh, hi Yucchi." He smiled and greeted back. He gotta admit that it was a bit weird facing him again after what happened in the morning.

Before the two could engage in more conversation, Kazuki immediately popped in, "Konbanwa ~ You remember me? I'm Kazuki, Hiru-chan co-worker. Nice to meet ya ~" He smiled brightly while extended his arm, before giving his small notebook and a pen, "Say, I'm secretly a fan of you and your band, mind if I have your autograph, Yutaro-san?"

"Hey, Kazuki. Stop being so flippant." Hiruka scolded a bit then grabbed Kazuki by his arm and pulled him back, then turned to Yutaro, "I guess you've met him before but I don't think you two had officially talked. Like he said, he's my co-worker, and a close friend since my high school years."

"That's right, we're real close ~" Kazuki expressed his contentment before hugging Hiruka and gave him a long kiss on his cheek, all the while giving Yutaro a glance with a small hint of challenge.

"How many times have I told you not to show too much affection in public?" Hiruka pushed Kazuki away coldly after being given the kiss, but as he had gotten so used to it, he didn't show any contempt, "Sorry, please don't mind him, he's always clingy like that."

"Ehh ~ I just wanna show him how close we are ~" Kazuki pouted.

---

Sorry that it's been a while. School's been real hectic and the weather here's hot as hell >.>
Anyway, if it wasn't clear enough, Kazuki is 'testing' Yutaro. It's a kind of thing he usually does whenever he felt that someone is intending to go out with Hiruka.

Afterwards, Hiruka, along with Kazuki, all talked together casually. It seemed that when it comes to their favorite genres of music, the two other men seemed to be on the same wavelength. Hiruka didn't know much, since he's not really a fan of rock and all that, but he did poke in anyway. It was quite pleasant from what he had observed, but he could also noticed that Yutaro was also visibly uncomfortable. Perhaps it was due to what Kazuki did earlier. Hiruka sheepishly thought, but do not dwell too much into it.

Yutaro was the same flamboyant and extroverted boy that Hiruka once knew. The same dorky smile, the same jagged confidence. It could almost felt like he never did change, after all. But, aside from the tough shell, he can felt that there still lie some insecurities and doubts. Probably due to the fact that he hadn't been able to move on just yet. That's simply the weakness of a human's heart.

After a few hours, Yutaro excused himself and took his leave, saying that he will text Hiruka later when he buy a new phone,
after having horribly disfigured his previous one in his fit of rage this morning. "Yeah, I'll see you around, Yucchi." Hiruka tilted his hand and smiled. [color=gray]"See ya, Yutaro-san ~" Kazuki waved to the black-haired man as his back disappeared after the wooden door to the bar.

Right afterwards, Hiruka gave Kazuki a knock on his head, "Ouch. Why did you do that?" He pouted and rubbing his head.

"Again with your shameless intimacy. I don't want the tales that I'm beginning to go out again spread." Hiruka said coldly.

"Come on, you're no cute at all. Nobody would even care about a small kiss, y'know."

"Shaddup."

Kazuki remained at Ahnenerbe and began grabbing a few other young boys to drink with them, while Hiruka just sat and bothered Makoto. The night passed by quietly and it was eventually time for closing. The three of them parted way and returned home. After taking a quick shower, Hiruka checked up on his phone and saw the text message coming from the familiar number. Smiling, he read the content and was a bit surprise that Yutaro really did ask about what had happened earlier between him and Kazuki. Somehow, he felt as if his heart suddenly has become contented.

No, it's not a problem. I told you earlier right? Kazuki is a close friend of mine since high school and we're just that. He's really clingy even towards his own siblings and I can almost say that he knows no shame. Want me to show you a pic of him kissing his older brother? So, I hope you wouldn't concern too much 'bout it, Yucchi. And, there are no such thing as boundaries between us, so it's okay. Hiruka chuckled then sent the message. It has been a very long day, but at least he can sleep soundly for now.

---

I was walking outside of the street for some errands and I almost felt like I'm a skewer on a BBQ >.>
I really hope you could send some chills over here too, sometimes I wish an ice cream truck or something would run into my house LOL

Hiruka gazed at his phone for a while after sending the text message. He chuckled a little at Yutaro's question. Somehow, a rather pleasant feeling made its' way into his heart. Something that he hadn't felt for... as long as he could remember. For a brief moment, he had thought that he is becoming a kid all over again. If this was just some random guy whom he had just picked up from his get-go, not in a millennium would he be able to feel the same. But this wasn't just some random guys, this is the person who once was the world to the once childish him.

The phone vibrated again before a text message from the very person he is thinking of. This time, the text wasn't all flirty and jokingly like all those they exchanged before. Hiruka smiled, very lightly, as he swept through the message. It's not a big deal, really. I'm pretty sure Kazuki was happy to meet his idol too. Well, nice dream to you, Yuki-chan and Kou-kun then. He texted a his replied and finished with a heart icon before sending. Like the previous days, Hiruka slept soundly through the night. For a second, he had thought as if all the sufferings he once gone through don't even matter anymore.

He got up quiet early in the morning and had breakfast with Makoto, who easily noticed the changes in the mood of his brother. As of now, things seem to be going just fine between the two of them. Based on what he had observed so far, he could tell that much. It would be nice if things turn out well, too. "Well, aren't you gaining more colors on your cheeks recently, nii-chan?" Makoto rested his head on his palm and said.

"Am I? I didn't even notice." Hiruka caressed his cheeks a bit before picking up the mirror near him to gaze at himself, "Yeah, you're right. Perhaps that skin lotion Madoka-kun gave me actually worked after all. Gotta thank him today."

"So, why don't you just admit that you and him are really going somewhere else further, huh? If it was him, then I won't need to have any worries for you."

"Forget it. I told you, right? I'm not laying my hands on him." Hiruka shrugged, "Still, even if I really did, I doubt that he's going to last long."

"Yeah, that's to be expected from someone who looks like he hasn't gotten laid for an eternity." Makoto chuckled as they mused over a certain black-haired young man.

Before setting off for work, Hiruka suddenly received another text from Yutaro, asking him to come with him and his friends to a night club. Sure, text me the address and the time and I'll be there tonight. See you then.

---

Yeah, I think that's a good set-up for a date, and what come will come :)