Archive of Our Own

Daisuke expected his new mission to be over in a flash, maybe an explosion, like his previous missions. He was rather excited to learn Haru would be his partner, but nothing really changed. He didn’t expect anything beyond their usual way of solving cases. 

The mission was simple enough. A case of smart robbers who strategically planned their robberies. It was originally a First Division mission, but was passed down to them when another, much more important and difficult case came up. 

No matter how smart the robbers are, they’re robbers, meaning they’re after money. Which, Daisuke has literally an unlimited amount of. He can easily bribe the robbers and the mission will be over quickly. 

“I know what you’re thinking, and no.” 

“...” Daisuke turned to his partner, quirking an eyebrow at the man in question.  

“You’re thinking you can just buy them off, aren’t you?” Haru growled at him, but his expression was more exasperated than angry. 

“Yes, it is money they’re after.” Daisuke replied dismissively. His lips curled into a smirk when Haru’s frown deepened, and Haru’s yellow-brown eyes seemed to suddenly glint. How he loves provoking his partner, it’s so satisfying to see Haru’s smooth skin turn rapid red from anger and his mouth twisted into a scowl that’s somehow still attractive. A scowl. 

“Is money seriously your solution to everything!?” Haru huffed, crossing his arms. “We’re going to arrest them, without giving them what they want! Besides, what are they gonna do with the money when they’re in jail?” 

“Why go through so much trouble, when giving them money is the easiest and fastest solution?” Daisuke countered. 

Haru didn’t reply, but he did let out an angry growl. He glared harshly at Daisuke, who merely gave him a smirk in return. The smirk did not help quell his anger. 

“Because it’s unethical and pointless.” Haru finally answered, his eyes staring deeply at the papers in front of him, refusing to meet Daisuke’s amused eyes.  

The two sat in silence, both of them waiting for the other to say something. 

Daisuke is more than satisfied with watching Haru work, especially when the other man is clearly squirming with his cheeks flushed, and his face contorted in the fake-anger way he always has. It’s endearing, for some reason. 

Daisuke smirked smugly, as if he won a bet. Haru is downright adorable, which is unfair since he’s a grown man who clearly works hard-- too hard to be considered adorable, and yet here we are. 

Unable to handle Daisuke’s gaze, Haru quickly got up and walked over to him with a tight pout sitting on his red face. Holy shit, that’s adorable. 

“Here, take a look at it.” Haru said and shoved several papers in Daisuke’s face. “Ugh, their demand is so stupid… literally what you want.” 

“Demand?” Daisuke repeated questioningly, and looked at the papers. 

Sure enough, Daisuke was holding copied versions of what seems to be the robbers’ demanding ransom. He squinted at the awful scribbling as he tried to decipher what the robbers were demanding. 

“‘Give us a billion yen and we’ll stop with the robberies.’ Hm.” Daisuke read in a bored tone. Then he looked up at Haru, cocking an eyebrow. “Again, why can’t we just pay them?” 

Haru’s eyes widened as his brows narrowed. “Are you kidding me?! It’s obvious they’re gonna continue with the robberies, even if we pay them the billion yen. If you pay them, you know what kind of shit they can buy to become even more slippery and hard to catch?” 

Daisuke’s eyes fell back on the paper. He continued reading, completely ignoring Haru, “‘We’ll be waiting for the money in our next robbery. You better bring only one person with the money. Don’t play tricks. In case you want to, we have more than just guns to fight with.’...That was boring… Huh, it’s not even signed.” 

“Why would they sign it, dumbass?!”

Daisuke smirked and shrugged, causing Haru to roll his eyes. 

“Let’s get lunch and talk about this over food.” Daisuke offered, standing up. He set the papers down neatly and gave Haru an expecting look. 

“I’m not hungry,” Haru refused. His stomach growled loudly immediately after, betraying him. Haru clutched his stomach quickly, blushing rapidly. 

“Perfect timing,” Daisuke teased, staring at Haru’s red cheeks bit too intensely. 

“Shut up.” Haru snapped. Stubbornly, he made his way to his desk, clearly deciding to work instead of take care of himself like a normal human being. 

Daisuke watched him for a few seconds, noting how Haru’s movements are slower and clearly tired. They’re sluggish and hesitant--probably because Haru is starving and tired and dehydrated. Seriously, it’s like he wants to die early. 

And it hasn’t even been a week since Daisuke took Haru out, after bribing him with sour candy. It’s as if Haru never learns. 

“How do you expect to work efficiently when you’re malnourished, dehydrated, and sleep-deprived?” Daisuke tsked disapprovingly.

“I ate this morning,” Haru grumbled, “and I got two more hours of sleep today.” 

“Meaning you ate instant noodles and slept four to five hours, am I correct?” Daisuke guessed with a frown. Haru’s guilty face answered his question. 

“Who are you, my mom?” Haru grumbled, unable to argue. “I’ll be fine. Go eat if you want, but I’m working.” 

“It won’t be an expensive restaurant. But it won’t be McDonald's either.” Daisuke promised. “You’ll be comfortable enough, and the food is immaculate.” 

Haru snorted. “Yeah, right,” He rolled his eyes. “Your idea of inexpensive is taking a single zero out of a billion.” 

Daisuke nodded, completely missing the point and making Haru’s eyes roll harder than a heavy person who tripped down a huge hill. 

“It’s a no for me,” Haru insisted stubbornly, “like I said, you’re welcome to eat by yourself.” 

Daisuke never felt this concerned about a person before. He subconsciously wondered when was the last time he showed concern. His mind drew a blank. Had he even cared for his own sister this much? 

Before he could dwell on his confusing thoughts, Daisuke cleared his throat. 

“Sour candy.” With a delighted grin, Daisuke saw how Haru noticeably perked up. “For dessert, if you go get some food with me.” 

Haru turned and gave him a glare. “Are you seriously bribing me?” 

Daisuke shook his head, like a damn liar. 

Haru hesitated, clearly thinking to himself. Then he looked up, almost pouting. “Is this your way of buying me?” 

Daisuke paused, his eyes widening at the sudden statement. Then he snorted, trying not to laugh. “No one can buy you, Kato. Not even me.” 

Haru grinned, clearly pleased. “That’s right, rich bastard.” 

Haru stood up, the pleased smile still plastered on his face, “Fine, I’m coming with you. Can’t ignore my stomach forever... Or whatever, I guess.” 

This… this adorable idiot...

“Of course. Follow me.” Daisuke smirked and walked out. His eyes made contact with one of their co-workers, who’s smiling mischievously as her eyes swept from him to Haru. She smirked at him, waved, and mouthed “good luck” before turning back to her work. Daisuke blinked. 

“Alright but we can’t take too long, because we really need to start working on this case. You never know when the robbers are planning to strike back, especially with the warning in their notes. I swear…” 

So he’s still talking about our work… during lunch break, Daisuke notes calmly. Why does he care so much? Is he really that ethical and moralistic? Is his drive for justice that great?  

The more Daisuke hangs around Haru, the more questions come up. Haru truly is a fascinating character whom Daisuke absolutely cannot keep his eyes off. 

“Inspector Kato,” Daisuke interrupted before he hears another word about their case, “what kind of food do you enjoy the best?” 

Haru frowned at being interrupted, and also because he has no idea what he likes the best. “I… uh, I just eat instant ramen… so that, I guess.” 

Daisuke frowned disapprovingly. “Kato…” 

“Ah, shut it, you’re not my mom.” Haru interrupted with a red face. 

“We’re eating real food today,” Daisuke decided, “and you cannot refuse.” 

Haru gave him a suspicious look but didn’t protest. The two walked over to Daisuke’s fancy,  sleek, and expensive car with Haru insulting Daisuke at every chance he gets. Daisuke enjoyed retorting much more than he should. 

“If you break a single traffic law, I’m jumping out your car,” Haru warned early, as Daisuke started his car. He gripped his seatbelt when they fucking nyoom’d out the parking lot and into the highway.  

“We were chasing criminals at that time,” Daisuke said with a sly smile, knowing exactly what Haru’s talking about, “I think it was justified.” 

“But not the other times!” Haru insisted. “Slow down, dumbass!” 

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Daisuke said, you know, like a big, fat liar. 

Daisuke watched with mild fascination as Haru’s face turned red from anger, as Haru’s eyes widened. Haru’s mouth scowled, flashing his teeth, but no harsh words came out. Then he rolled his eyes, his golden beautiful eyes, and huffed. 

“Shut up, stupid.” 

“Preschool insults.” 

“I wasn’t insulting you, dumbass!” Haru exclaimed. “I was calling you by what you are!” 

“That’s a strange way of saying handsome and rich.” Daisuke teased, a smirk sitting on his lips. 

Haru snorted. “What the hell…” 

“You’re not denying it.” Daisuke noted gleefully. 

“Because it’s so absurd, it shocked me at first!” Haru denied in a shrill voice, you know, like an emotionally-constipated anime school girl. “Don’t think so highly of yourself, rich bastard! I swear I’m jumping out of your car.” 

“Please don’t, you’ll get hurt.”  

“Much better than being with you.” 

“That hurts, Inspector Kato.” 

“Good!” 

And the rest of the ten-minute car ride went exactly like that. Like a game of ping-pong, back and forth with the right amount of force, not necessarily harsh, but just the perfect amount of bite. 

Daisuke enjoyed every single second of it, and was disappointed to see the restaurant come into view.  

Haru jumped when the car stopped suddenly and he surged forward, protected by the seat belt. “Oof--” Haru grunted. “Little warning before you suddenly stop the car?” 

“Apologies,” Daisuke said unapologetically. He got out of his car, leaving Haru sitting by himself in confusion. 

The door opened, and Daisuke’s smug face appeared. “Aren’t you coming out?” 

Haru flushed and got out, pouting. “I can open the door myself, stupid.” 

Daisuke smiled. “I’m sure.” 

“Then why didn’t you let me!?!”

“Now, come along.” Daisuke ignored him, making it sound like Haru’s a small adolescent child who’s yet to learn his manners. 

Haru followed Daisuke suspiciously, eyeing the restaurant they’re about to enter. From the outside, he already despised the restaurant. 

Noticing Haru’s reluctance, Daisuke turned to him and smiled. “Come now, Haru,” He said, smoothly and invitingly, “aren’t you hungry? I promise this restaurant will be to your taste.” 

Rolling his eyes, Haru followed Daisuke, telling himself that he’s only in it for the candy afterward. 

Daisuke had led them to a fancy-enough looking restaurant. It was spacious, not filled completely, and decorated with expensive-looking chandeliers and highly unnecessary white pillars. Green and white flower arrangements connected each pillar, giving the entire place a wedding-vibe. The lights were dimmed. 

And don’t get Haru started on the furniture. The tables were glossy brown underneath perfectly pristine white tablecloths, lined with gold that may or may not be real. On top are fucking vases with single roses, and the chairs look comfortable as hell but also expensive as hell. 

“W-wh-” Haru stuttered in disbelief, his wide eyes taking every sparkling detail in. “You said it won’t be-- be-- Kanbe, you dirty liar!” 

Daisuke smiled evilly. “Wouldn't be what, Kato? What did I lie about?” 

Haru gave him a glare, his fingers twitching like he wanted to punch the suit-cladded rich bastard before him. Actually, he does want to. 

Before Haru could spit the insult that laid ready on his tongue, he noticed the stares of other people, and though he can’t hear exactly what those self-absorbed rich people are saying, he can definitely hear the whispers all directed on him. He closed his mouth. 

Daisuke noticed how the fire within Haru seemed to die instantly. While it made Haru look calmer and still kept his prettiness, it feels wrong to extinguish Haru’s burning passion like this. 

“Sit down, and order whatever you want,” Daisuke offered before Haru starts getting self-deprecating thoughts, or something equally as bad, “my treat.” 

After Haru settled with a deep frown on his face, Daisuke grimaced slightly to himself. Haru never cared about money, and their colossal gap in social classes, because all his focus was always on his damn job and justice. 

But Daisuke has no idea how Haru thinks of being judged and disproved already, by people who can easily buy his entire home. With how Haru reacted, ears burning but eyes pained, as he sat roughly, it didn't look too good. 

Daisuke could only hope to raise Haru’s spirits. After all, he persisted and stubbornly insisted on this dinner date. He has to do everything in his power to make sure everything goes alright. 

“You promised me candy after this,” Haru reminded Daisuke after the dinner date that honestly went better than both expected, especially with the little stumble in the first half. 

But, as Suzue likes to say, the devil works hard and Daisuke works harder. His efforts to make Haru feel better worked like a charm, and it didn’t take long until Haru started laughing with his adorable red cheeks and a wide grin. 

Granted, the red cheeks may be due to the rare and expensive wine imported from Italy... 

Daisuke smiled, “What?” 

“Don’t make me repeat myself...” Haru burned red after realizing how childish and needy he sounded, “Nevermind, I’m tired anyway. Just bring me home.” 

“No, I made a promise.” Daisuke hummed. “Kanbe’s don’t break their vows.” 

Haru rolled his eyes but agreed in the end. He is still a little tipsy, but isn’t fully drunk. While he still has all his brainpower, his reaction time is a little slow and he finds everything mildly hilarious, but he’s not drunk enough to randomly laugh at… say, a random sock on the ground. 

Unlike the car ride to the restaurant, this one is much more quieter but not uncomfortable. Also much slower. Daisuke can’t help but glance at Haru every so often. 

Meanwhile, Haru is silently looking out the window with mild fascination. Since Daisuke’s driving is slow and the wine is still affecting him, he notices every random thing.

Like… how did he never notice how fucking tall this one building is? And another one is colored horridly. Next to that is a pretty flower shop. With the time being 9 PM, everything is quiet and calm. 

Haru silently stared at a loud scene, which attracted his attention since it contrasted with the quiet city. A bunch of people, cladded in dark clothing that made it difficult to see them, running around and carrying large bags. They’re hanging around an oddly lit bank, which looks new enough but is probably old due to the large spider cobwebs that decorated the glass windows. 

Haru’s eyes boredly looked at the next scene, the rational part of his brain screaming. Why is it screaming? Maybe it’s bored and the loud scene was entertaining. 

What were they doing, anyway, dressing up so weird at this time? 

Dot, dot, dot. 

Haru’s mind froze as his eyes widened, his mind only catching up and finally connecting the pieces. Those cobwebs weren’t cobwebs at all!

“Kanbe!” Haru blurted, effectively startling Daisuke. “The bank! Turn around and go to that bank we just passed!” 

Without questioning, Daisuke made an illegal u-turn in the middle of the road. Luckily, there were no cars around them. 

Haru found himself unable to scold Daisuke, seeing as there’s no one around to be harmed. His eyes are trained on the bank, and his hands are shuffling around, trying to find his phone. 

“Robbers?” 

“Robbers,” Haru confirmed. He found his phone and punched in some numbers. The station picked up after ringing three times. 

“Haru, what’s up! Did you forget something?” A man’s cheerful voice picked up. Daisuke glanced over, eyeing Haru’s phone, instead of the fucking road they’re currently breaking speed limit over. 

“Send backup, robbery happening.” Haru informed professionally, cutting his sentence as if to save more time. “The bank down Rukato street. It may be the slippery case one.” 

“Right away, Haru. Stay safe. I’ll call for backup. If we hurry, we might make it around five minutes since it’s nearby. We’ll get there as fast as possible.” 

“Thank you,” Haru exhaled and hung up. When he looked up, he realized slowly that the car had stopped right in front of the bank. 

It’s empty. 

“They’re inside,” Daisuke informed. “I can just offer them money, you know.” 

“We’re not doing that.” Haru growled. “Argh, I’m not prepared for this…” 

“Let’s keep an eye on them until backup arrives,” Daisuke suggests, “since we have nothing right now.” 

“That’s a first; you having nothing,” Haru sneered.

“I have money.” 

“We’re waiting!” 

Despite the situation, Daisuke smirked. 

They unbuckled their seatbelts and Daisuke unlocked the doors, so they can be ready to jump out the car in case the robbers come outside. 

The bank’s windows were shattered and glass sprawled across the ground. The bank was oddly lit, because two lights seem to be broken. The alarm system isn’t ringing, meaning the robbers somehow hacked into the bank. 

Then, why would they shatter the glass? That just seems unnecessary. 

Haru remembered previous cases concerning these slippery robbers. On all of them, the police had always arrived way too late. The robbers were long gone by the time police arrived, thus earning the nickname of “slippery robbers”. 

“They somehow break in without tripping up the alarm system,” Haru realized, “and shatter the windows. After they grab everything, they break the alarm; making it seem like they’re only starting, when in fact they're done already! By the time we arrive, they’re long gone.” 

Daisuke hummed. “That makes sense. Good job, Kato.” 

Haru flushed, but his eyes were trained at the scene before him. 

So far, there seem to be four robbers. They’re all wearing black clothing, head to toe. Their comical ski-masks made it impossible to see their faces. They also wore gloves, preventing any fingerprints from being left behind in the crime scene. 

Haru calculated the chances of a four-on-two fight, and the chances of keeping the robbers occupied until backup arrives in… Haru checked the time. Three minutes, but he can’t guarantee the estimate. Backup may arrive much earlier or much later. 

The slippery robbers are currently loading their brown bags with what seems to be money. 

With a jolt, Haru realized the robbers must have figured out the code to the vaults without suspicion. They’re much smarter than they thought. 

Haru voiced his thoughts to Daisuke, who looked undisturbed. 

“Let’s just wait and see what they do,” Daisuke kept insisting. 

“Surprised that you don’t have your damn missile-launcher with you,” Haru grumbled. 

Daisuke glanced over with a slight smirk. “Are you still mad about that?” 

“Shut up. How about I shoot you with sleeping gas?”

“Okay.” 

“You’re impossible.” 

Daisuke noted with satisfaction that his plan worked. Haru is less rigid now, and seems more relaxed after the short banter they had. Hopefully, he won’t pull any stupid impulsive things.  

Another minute passed. 

“They’re coming out!” Haru yelped, and his hands flew to the car handle. “Let’s go, Kanbe!” 

Before Daisuke could protest, Haru was already flying out the door and shouting at the robbers. 

Daisuke cursed, then pulled up HEUSC. 

“When is backup coming?” 

“Five minutes. There was a short traffic delay.” HEUSC replied instantly. 

“How are the robbers looking?” He got out of his car, discarding his suit jacket. “What are the chances Haru and I can disarm them right now?” 

“Ninety percent. None of them have experience fighting, but all wield old pistols. They also have no experience with guns.” 

“So all brains, no brawl, huh?” Daisuke noted, and saw Haru taking down one robber, while another stared in terror, his legs shaking. 

Where are the other two? Daisuke whipped his head, and saw a body laying on the ground, just barely inside the doorway. Near his ski-mask-cladded head is a sack of money. Instantly, Daisuke reasoned that Haru must’ve thrown the bag towards the robber’s head, thus knocking him out. 

While a big bag of money definitely is heavy, it’s still a little hard to believe a grown man would get knocked out by one being thrown towards him. One he can easily dodge. 

...Unless they’re not grown men? 

“HEUSC.” 

“Six robbers. Ages: fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, eighteen, and two nineteen. Two are knocked out, but alive. Three.” HEUSC amended after Haru knocked the current person he’s holding.  

Daisuke nodded. Two more people than they thought… and they’re all children, basically. What could’ve led to them robbing banks, at such young ages? 

Jumping in on the action, Daisuke swept his legs around the cowering robber’s own shaking legs. He went down with a yelp, and Daisuke landed a final kick. 

The terrified robber let out a shriek of terror, and even Daisuke could hear the youth in his voice. Daisuke grabbed the robber by the collar and headbutted him, knocking him out instantly. 

“Kato, they’re children.” Daisuke informed him, knowing that Haru would feel guilty later on, if he fought six children like they’re grown men.

As expected, Haru’s eyes widened and he stared at the knocked out robber in front of him. 

“Come, on, there’s three more inside.” Daisuke said gently, so unlike his usual self that Haru looked up in surprise. “We can take them on, but be careful, they have guns.” 

“Guns?” Haru echoed. Then his expression darkened. “Children or not, they’re committing a crime. Come on.” 

Daisuke followed him into the bank, stepping over the fallen robber on their way inside. Haru halted to a stop and Daisuke followed. 

In front of them, the three remaining robbers all formed a crescent shape around the two detectives. All of them held guns, pointed at Haru. 

“W-we have guns!” The middle one shouted. His voice trembled almost as much as his legs. “We--we’re n-not afraid to s-shoot! At a-all!” 

Haru grimaced. He always held a soft spot for children, and it simply breaks his heart to see children commiting crimes. 

“Why are you doing this?” Haru asked, his voice low and soothing. 

Inappropriately, Daisuke marveled at the tone of Haru, and his imagination created an image of the two of them, laying together in bed late at night, just talking to each other about random things, at ease with one another. And then he blinked and was reminded of the situation. 

“W-we don’t need t-to tell you any--anything!” 

“You’re trembling.” Haru noted, his voice amazingly soothing and understanding. “You’re scared. Someone’s forcing you all to do this, aren’t they?” 

The robber in the middle seems to freeze. His hold on his pistol went from clasping tightly, to loosening. “I--” he choked. 

“It’s okay,” Haru continued softly, “we’re police officers. We can help. I promise you that.” 

“Y-you… you’re lying!” The robber accused.

“You’re a child,” Haru frowned, “and you’ve been robbing banks. Why?” 

The middle robber lowered his gun completely. The two others followed suit, eyeing Haru suspiciously. 

“We-- you’re gonna help us, r-right?” 

“Yes, of course. Anything within reason and legal.” 

“We-- we’re being forced. T-to do this.” The robber confessed. Haru nodded for him to continue. “We… we’re super smart. That’s what h-he said. We can use our brains unlike the others. So he sent us.” 

Haru’s frown deepened. 

Daisuke stepped forward, hand on Haru’s shoulder, and the guns went up again. 

“How much?” Daisuke asked, knowing Haru can’t yell at him now. He’d scare the children. 

“H-huh?” 

“You want money, don’t you?” Daisuke raised an eyebrow. “So how much do you want? I can give you billions. Tens of billions. More.”

The robber’s eyes widened. 

Suddenly, red and blue flashed everywhere. The thudding of multiple footsteps picked up, until several policemen with guns and shields showed up. 

“HANDS UP, PUT YOUR GUNS DOWN!” 

The terrified robbers dropped their guns, tears streaming down their faces.

Daisuke noted through hooded lids, Haru’s disapproving frown. It’s clear Haru is against the police suddenly interrupting. 

“I… I’ll go… talk…” Haru said slowly, and he’s gone. 

Daisuke watched his partner go, wondering how their night shifted from a fun dinner date to stopping a crime. 

Then he tsked at the sloppy approach to the situation. He turned around, surveying the scene. 

Policemen scolding the remaining children, who aren’t cuffed or anything. The three unconscious ones are inside a police car. 

The bank’s windows are shattered, making the policemen wary as they carefully step around, as if the small glass shards could break through their hard shoes. The lights are flickering. Bags of money laid on the ground, untouched, and some spewed money. 

Daisuke’s eyes narrowed at the sight before he sighed. He doesn’t know why, but he’s in a sour mood. 

...Okay, maybe he has a slight idea. His dinner date (yes, he will continue to refer to it as a date) with Haru was perfect. Then the mood plummeted with these children committing such crimes. He knows it’s rather immature, but he’s ticked that he could’ve easily prevented this with money. 

After all, money can buy everything. 

“Yo, Kanbe!” 

Daisuke turned around, eyes slightly wide. Haru’s coming back to him, expression noticeably brighter than when he left. He’s smiling slightly. He’s waving his hands. 

Scratch his earlier statement. Money can buy most things, but it can never buy someone like Haru Kato. 

HEUSC whirred to life. 

“Master, a gun is pointed towards you.” 

Daisuke whipped his head back, and he made eye contact with one of the robbers. His ski-mask is off, revealing his messy brown hair and scared but fierce brown eyes that look black. He’s trembling, but his finger is on the trigger. Daisuke noted with shock how the little boy’s cheeks are still plump with baby fat, acne on his sweat-covered cheeks. This little kid is probably fourteen or fifteen. 

“I-if it weren’t for you...! I-it’s all you-your fault!” The little boy cried, but nothing left his mouth after that. 

“Kanbe!” 

Then time slowed down the same time it sped up. Daisuke is suddenly hyper aware of Haru hugging him, holding him tightly, and they’re spinning. The whole world is spinning. He can hear Haru’s heartbeat, and it’s beating so fast, like a little drum violated by a curious child. 

Then the second flashed with a loud bang and everything sped up way too quickly. 

Before he knew it, Haru’s on the ground, coughing out blood and trembling. 

“K-” Daisuke’s icy blue eyes locked in horror with the blood coming out of Haru’s back shoulder, coming out way too quickly. “Kato!” 

Haru coughed again and his mouth trembled; shaking, shaking until it formed a beautifully depressing smile. “S-sav...ed… ya…” 

Daisuke’s vision blurred and he never felt pain like this before. Haru makes him feel things he never felt before. 

“Don’t you dare die on me, Haru,” Daisuke stammered, holding Haru so he won’t be on the hard concrete ground. He turned around, and seethed at how the police are all shell-shocked and doing absolutely nothing.  

“Ambulance!” He bellowed. “Call the ambulance, incompetent fools!” 

They stumble around and suddenly the entire world is flurrying and hurrying, leaving Daisuke and Haru in the middle of a great coursing river. Footsteps everywhere, running into each other, stumbling and moving. 

“Stay with me,” Daisuke mumbled, not knowing what to say. This never happened. He’s not used to this. 

“Do...don’t…” Haru slurred, his eyes lowering, “... b-be… so… so me-mean.” 

“I’m sorry,” Daisuke’s voice quavered. “I- just stay with me, please Haru. Don’t you dare die. I can’t buy your soul, dumbass.” 

Haru smiled but it took too long and too much effort. The blood dripped through the wound, despite Daisuke trying his best to stop it. “Money… it- it… can’t buy…. every… thing.” 

“No, of course not, you’ve always told me that. I never listen.” 

“Yes…” Haru’s eyes closed and his labored breath picked up. 

“Haru!” 

“Blurry… sorry...  hurts…” 

“Haru, stay with me, don’t you dare die!” Daisuke turned back to the police with wild eyes. “Where’s the fucking ambulance?!” 

“I-it’s not here yet!” One brave person reported after a beat of silence. 

Daisuke growled. He looked at Haru, and then his car. His trembling fingers reached his sunglasses. 

“HEUSC.” 

“Haru will not die if you bring him to the hospital with your car. It may be a better alternative to waiting for the ambulance, which is stuck in traffic.” 

“Clear traffic for me. ASAP.” 

“Yes, Master.” 

Daisuke carefully brought Haru to his car and made sure it’s as comfortable and safe as possible. He set his car on auto-pilot mode, so it raced through the road safely but fast enough, as he held Haru with trembling fingers in the backseat. 

“HEUSC.” 

“He is not dead yet, Master.” His faithful AI servant informed him. The ‘yet’ did not sit well with Daisuke.

HEUSC remained silent for a moment, and then spoke. “Body scan completed.” 

“How is he?” 

“Haru suffers from a bullet in the left shoulder, and a mild concussion from hitting his head directly after the shot. Body temperature is seventy-four degrees and is rapidly declining.” 

“Will he--...?” 

HEUSC paused a moment too long, and it made Daisuke’s blood run colder than ever. 

“I’m sorry, Master,” and the AI sounded sorry enough for an artificial being, “but even I cannot estimate the survival chances properly.”

Daisuke gripped Haru tighter. Haru’s body felt cold and the shivering stopped long ago. He shook his head. 

Haru’s the strongest person he knows, and not just in terms of muscle. Haru’s drive for justice and his view on morality and ethics… It's seriously the most genuine and fascinating thing Daisuke’s ever came across. He can’t die right here, right now. 

“How much longer?” 

“Arriving in the hospital in seven minutes.” 

Daisuke growled, his eyes trained on Haru’s fragile state. “Speed up!” 

“Yes, Master.” 

The car picked up even more speed and Daisuke’s grip on Haru tightened impossibly tighter. 

The world blurred and overlapped. Daisuke feels numb and as if someone is controlling his body. He’s vaguely aware of holding Haru and whispering softly in Haru’s ears, not sure if Haru could hear him. He’s aware of arriving in the Emergency Room, yelling at the top of his lungs, and doctors rushing to help Haru. 

Everything happened like a dream. Daisuke’s aware of everything happening but everyone sounds far away and distant. He can hear them but he can’t understand. Haru. 

Haru’s bleeding and hurt. 

“I’ll pay whatever it costs, just, please help him!” Did he really declare that? He remembers saying the words but he doesn’t remember when or why.  

The world whirred faster and faster, and Daisuke’s too dizzy with grief and shock to stand against the spinning world. 

Daisuke sat in the waiting room, nervously waiting. When he couldn’t bear the suspense of waiting for Haru, he pulled up HEUSC and the two reviewed the crime together. 

A nurse or worker lady came up to him, holding a clipboard filled with papers and forms he needed to fill out. Daisuke leaves it all to HEUSC, trusting his butler to complete everything. 

Unable to keep his anger in check, Daisuke demanded the chief to fire all of the officers that were present. After all, they didn’t think the kids would pull anything, due to being terrified children. 

But they did. 

And Haru paid the price of the absolutely useless officers. 

Haru’s words flashed into Daisuke’s unstable head. 

“Children or not, they’re committing a crime. Come on.”

Why can’t the officers understand that? Why didn’t they know that? Is Haru seriously the only sensible officer? Then Daisuke’s eyes widened. 

The past few months, Daisuke had an almost unhealthy obsession with Haru, and how Haru thinks. 

Money can’t buy everything, rich jerk, Haru had told him once. 

And then Daisuke judged him, smirked because he knew--no, he thought-- Haru was wrong. Daisuke had an unlimited amount of money. He can buy anything and anyone-- except Haru. That’s why he’s so fascinated with Haru, because Haru can’t be bought. 

Haru’s amazingly strong sense of justice and morality. His belief of right and wrong, what he believes is ethical or not. Haru’s beliefs always get him in trouble. 

Like when Haru fell off a bridge to save a criminal. Or when he sacrificed his well-being and health for the sake of looking through cold cases. Sleeping during work because he stayed up way too late. Offering himself and his life for the sake of a mission. 

And jumping in front of a gun to save Daisuke. 

Daisuke always was interested in Haru’s way of thinking. He sometimes stared at Haru, mumbling to himself as his hands moved from one paper to another, during work instead of working himself. 

Daisuke tried hard to understand Haru, really. From annoying Haru in the workplace, to humoring a sleepy-Haru who overworked himself for too long, and even eating McDonalds with Haru in his car… had he understood Haru at all? 

Understand Haru’s thought process, and how Haru decides things such as jumping in front of a gun to save his partner? 

Daisuke’s thoughts flurried even faster as he tried to think clearly. Obviously, he’s not in the right state of mind. 

Daisuke sat there for the next few hours, getting the occasional report from HEUSC, but mostly just sitting there and thinking to himself. 

Haru will be okay, Haru will be okay, echoed in his mind like a mantra, Haru will be okay. 

Daisuke perked up when he heard footsteps, and whipped his head up. He scrambled up and faced the grim looking doctor who came to him, holding a clipboard. 

“How is he?!” Daisuke asked immediately, not caring how desperate and unprofessional he sounded. “Tell me he’s alright and resting!” 

The doctor didn’t reply and Daisuke’s feelings-- whatever horrible mix of grief and anger they are-- rose. 

“Well?!” He demanded. 

“I’m very sorry, sir,” the doctor said with a heavy sigh, “but we’re still working on him. Mr. Kato is in a stable condition right now, and he’s fighting strongly for his… situation.” 

Fighting strongly… that’s Haru, alright. Always fighting for what he believes and he never gives less than his all. 

“What do you mean, his situation?” Daisuke shook the pride away, focusing on the doctor’s words. 

“You see, Mr. Kato got shot right in the left shoulder.” The doctor informed him lightly, and Daisuke wanted to punch him. “Normally, that wouldn’t be a fatal shot, especially for a man at Mr. Kato’s age.” 

“Well then, what’s the problem?” Daisuke asked impatiently.  

The doctor gulped, and continued after clearing his throat. “You see, Mr. Kato’s body isn’t in the right conditions. We figured he suffers from malnutrition and brain activity implies he may be missing too many hours of sleep. His body is already weak before the shot… we don’t know how long he can fight.” 

Daisuke stood there, frozen and pale. “So…” He smacked his lips, trying to get his running thoughts to calm down. “What… What does he need? I’ll pay anything-- don’t you dare worry about costs!” 

“We can’t perform surgery, it would be too risky in his already fragile state.” 

“S-so what can you do?” 

“I’m sorry, sir, but it would be safest if we put him in a medically-induced coma.” The doctor answered, his eyes lowered. 

“Coma?” Daisuke repeated in disbelief. 

The doctor nodded solemnly. 

“If… if there’s another method,” Daisuke began. 

“There are none, sir.” 

“IF THERE’S ANOTHER METHOD--” Daisuke roared, “But you’re worried about the expenses- then don’t! I can pay billions or more, if you need! I’ll make sure you’re paid more money than you can imagine, just bring him back!” 

“I-sir,” The doctor faltered, taking a step back, “please try to understand. We have tried our best, and we will continue to. Expense is not a thing we’re worried about.” 

Daisuke’s expression darkened. “I see.” 

Haru’s words rang in Daisuke’s ever-so-loud head. 

Money can’t buy everything, idiot. Daisuke could hear Haru’s snort. You’ll understand one day, I swear. And right after that, Daisuke smirked at him, and Haru looked at him angrily. 

Is this what he meant? 

Like the setting sun, the realization dawned on Daisuke way too slowly but it’s already dark by the time he realized. Money can’t buy everything, and that “everything” happened to be one incredibly moralistic, justice-loving, a self-sacrificing, wonderful idiot named Haru Kato. 

Money can’t buy everything.

One Hour Later

“Sir, visiting times are over. Please, go home and take care of yourself.” The nurse smiled warmly at him, as if she understands the pain and emotional turmoil he’s going through. “We will try our best to help your friend.” 

Daisuke glared at her darkly, causing her to take a step back. 

“HEUSC.” Daisuke said tiredly. 

“Yes, Master?” 

“Buy this hospital.” 

“Yes, Master.” 

The nurse gave him a confused and slightly concerned look. “E-excuse me, sir?” 

“This hospital is now mine. Rules don’t apply to me.”

“W-what?” The nurse gulped. “U-um, maybe you should rest, sir.” 

Daisuke gave her a long look, and the nurse finally got the hint, and she scampered away. 

Daisuke shifted in the uncomfortably hard chair provided by the hospital. Hours had passed, yet he only heard from doctors twice. 

“HEUSC.” 

“Yes, Master?” 

“Order some comfortable couches for this hospital.”  

“Yes, Master.”

Two Hours Later

“Daisuke! I heard Kato got shot!” 

Daisuke grimaced at the sudden voice, which broke the heavy silence of the waiting area. He looked over and nodded as a greeting. 

“Damn… you don’t look so well, Daisuke.” Suzue sat next to him, and put her hand on his shoulder comfortingly. 

“I’m fine,” Daisuke lied through his teeth. 

Suzue looked at his messed up hair, usually slicked back smoothly, and the lines under his eyes, and the smudges of dirt on his face that he didn’t bother to wipe away. She wiped them away and scratched at the dried blood that stained his pale-- more paler than usual- face.

“Brother, please don’t forsake yourself,” she said softly, “I’m worried about you.” 

“So are you not worried about Haru?” Daisuke snapped, slightly regretting the words that came out, but he made no move to apologize. 

Suzue understood anyway. Her eyes, always icy blue, were now warm. “Daisuke,” she said as soft as possible, and Daisuke wants to crumble with the weight of her voice, “please. Please take care of yourself, so when Kato wakes up, he won’t see you like this. I’m your sister, and I know you. You wouldn’t want your beloved to see you in such a state, won’t you, brother?” 

Daisuke glared at her although he lost all his fight. “This is no time for jokes.” 

“Jokes?” 

“Suzue.” Daisuke huffed. “I appreciate your attempt at making me feel better. But it’s not working. So, stop.” 

“What?” Suzue frowned, truly confused. “What are you talking about? Are you that delirious from grief, brother?” 

Daisuke mirrored her frown. “Are you not joking about Haru being my beloved, just to make me feel better?” 

Suzue blinked. 

Daisuke’s frown deepened. 

Suzue blinked again, her mouth dropping slowly. 

Daisuke quirked an eyebrow. 

“Wait!” She gasped. “You mean to tell me-- you and Kato… you guys aren’t together??” 

“No!”

“But…” Suzue paused and gave him a look. “You’re always ranting about him. I thought…”

“Suzue!” Daisuke snapped, but he could feel his lips lifting. 

“I’ve never seen you in this state.” Suzue said, and she ran her fingers through Daisuke’s messy hair, with strands stuck together due to his gel. “You never cared for someone to this extent. The closest was when I got hit with a car, and even then you cleaned up nicely before seeing me in my bed.” 

That’s because I knew you’d survive… 

“Haru’s different.” Daisuke said. “I don’t understand him, and I don’t intend on letting him… leave... without me ever understanding him.” 

“Understand?” Suzue repeated, frowning.

Daisuke nodded. “He is no more than my co-worker.” 

“You… but you call him by his first name!” Suzue gave him a non-believing look. 

“We… we are partners.” Daisuke grumbled, averting his eyes, not able to find any other excuse. 

“Oho? What sort of partner are we talking about?” 

“Suzue!” 

Despite the difficult situation and his current condition, Suzue laughed and Daisuke joined with a small chuckle. 

“Kato’s strong. He’ll be alright.” Suzue promised, and Daisuke almost believed her. 

Three Days Later

Daisuke looked at Haru’s sleeping form, his eyes aching and irritated, his feet protesting, and his brain running a million thoughts. Haru’s chest rose and fell peacefully. The oxygen mask on his face and all those wired machines attached to him-- it made him look weak and frail, and ready to break. 

But his eyes are closed, and he’s getting rest for once. Peacefully and softly, up and down, goes his chest. His hair, messy and rough, surrounds his face like a halo. He looks like a fallen angel, messy and dirty but still beautiful and ethereal looking. 

‘He’s not dying,’ Daisuke sighed in relief. ‘There’s no way he’ll die in this state. He’s alright. He’ll wake up soon.’ 

“You idiot,” Daisuke said out loud. 

Instead of retorting a witty reply like he would, Haru’s chest rose. It fell again, slowly and peacefully. 

Daisuke sighed, his face falling. He never thought he'd miss Haru making fun of him and his money. 

“Why did you do that, moron?” Daisuke murmured, taking a seat right next to Haru’s bed. “When you’re… so weak and-and suffering. Don’t try to deny it either. What were you thinking-- starving yourself, not hydrating, skipping out on sleep… all for the sake of a mission? Why? And you took a bullet for me. Are you stupid, Haru?” 

Haru didn’t reply. He can’t reply. 

Daisuke continued. 

“I would’ve been fine. A bullet to the shoulder is nothing.” His eyes lowered. “But you-- you’re in no state to take a bullet. So, why? Why, Haru, why would you do something so stupid? Is this the justice and morality you believe in so much? To throw your life away for me, whom you hate the most?” 

Haru’s annoyed face flashed in Daisuke’s mind. 

Haru had always hated Daisuke’s extra way of spending money on their missions, which he always claimed he could solve with no money. 

Daisuke smiled warily. “You never liked me throwing away money for ‘useless’ things. Money’s replaceable and I have so much of it. But you threw your life for me, and you’re not replaceable either. I… I don’t have you like I have money. I can’t buy you. I never understood that.” 

“You know what I don’t understand? Your sense of justice, and what you deem to be ethical or unethical.” Daisuke sighed.

“But,” he smiled, “I think I finally understand you, Haru.” 

Haru didn’t reply. 

The machines attached to him bleeped and whirred, and Haru’s soft breathing could be heard if Daisuke listened hard. 

Daisuke leaned forward, and clasped Haru’s icy cold hand within his own fiery, sweaty ones. He raised them to his forehead. 

“Please, wake up, Haru,” he begged quietly, and Daisuke never begged before, “so I can tell you… so I can explain you, because now I understand you.” 

The sun is setting, and light streamed warmly through the blinds. A comforting, warm, golden-brown showered Haru in ethereal light, but that’s not the gold Daisuke wants to see. 

Daisuke wants to see Haru’s golden eyes, when they’re flashing in anger, or happiness, or pure concentration, or sleepiness. 

“I understand now, so wake up.” 

And Haru’s words flashed in his mind once again. 

Money can’t buy everything. 

Daisuke thinks he finally understands what that means. 

The Next Day

“Th-they were just kids, we had no idea it w-would turn out like that! I swear!” 

Daisuke glared, unimpressed, down on the ex-police officer cowering before him. The ex-officer was present at the scene, when everything happened. 

“You should never underestimate criminals.” He said calmly, but that was a facade. No, he’s furious at the audacity of the police, but he needs to stay calm and rational. 

“B-but, children.” Officer-- ex officer -- Nabu protested, like that’s enough. 

“No matter the age, they’re still criminal, are they not?” 

Nabu gulped, sweating profusely. “They’re just children, w-we didn’t know they would have enough confidence to fire a gun!” 

“The same children who robbed several banks,” Daisuke seethed through his teeth, eyes burning, “and got away and dared try to blackmail the police; you don’t think they have enough confidence to shoot a gun?” 

“I-I,” Nabu went pale, realizing his mistake, and sweated more, “I d-don’t mean it like that, sir!” 

“Then what?” Daisuke spat. “What do you mean it like? Humor me please.” 

“I…” Nabu faltered. 

“Well?” 

“Y-you’re being unreasonable, sir.” Officer Nabu said. “You can’t fire all of us, just because of a simple mistake!” 

“A simple mistake?!” Daisuke roared and all he saw was red. 

Money can’t buy everything, but taking it away can cost everything. 

One Week and Two Days Later

Daisuke is currently sitting in a much more comfortable chair, watching over the still asleep Haru, an abandoned half-eaten McDonald’s burger in his hands. 

“Brother… you actually bought the hospital?” Suzue gaped when her eyes landed on the neatly made bed beside Haru's bed, and the clothes laid carefully on the couch Daisuke brought in. Food, wrappers, shoes, and just about everything else were scattered around the room. 

Daisuke perked up in his seat, and turned to his sister. “Yes, of course I did.” 

Suzue walked over to him, her heels clicking. “You haven’t been home. Have you been here the entire time?” 

Daisuke nodded, averting his eyes.

Suzue remained quiet, before she finally sighed. “Well. I can’t exactly blame you.”

“Mm.” 

“You cleaned up and everything.” She said, eyeing his fresh clothes and gelled hair that is slicked back in its usual style. The eyebags that developed overnight are now gone, and Daisuke looked less stressed. “Is… is he alright now?” 

“Stable condition.” Daisuke nodded. “Doctors are confident in surgery now.” 

“That’s great!” Suzue gasped in genuine happiness. 

Daisuke nodded, glancing at Haru. 

“When he wakes up,” he said quietly, so quietly that Suzue leaned towards him, straining to hear him, “I-...” 

Suzue blinked when Daisuke said nothing after that, and then smiled because she understood one hundred percent. 

“Go for it, brother,” she encouraged softly and held his hands. 

“Alright.” 

The Kanbe siblings spent peaceful silence, looking over Haru, who is still in a coma, but in a much more stable condition. 

Two Days Later

“Daisuke!” 

Daisuke woke up with a start, eyes bleary and confused. Then his eyes widened when he recognized the voice from above, and he looked up. 

Smiling brightly, as if nothing had happened and as if he was never, was Haru Kato. 

“H-Haru,” Daisuke gulped, his mouth suddenly dry. 

“Did you wait for me all this time?” Haru asked, beaming. How Daisuke missed that smile and Haru in general. 

“I- of course!” Daisuke declared, looking at Haru strongly. “I- I was worried.” 

“Aw,” Haru chuckled, and held up his arm, flexing weakly, “I’m tough, though. A single bullet won’t stop me.” 

Daisuke crumbled in Haru’s lap. “You idiot.” 

He felt Haru’s soft hands run through his hair, which he gladly accepted. Haru bent over and hugged Daisuke, and Daisuke turned so he could fully hold the taupe-haired man back. 

“With your malnutrition and dehydration… doctors were worried about you.” Daisuke informed, grief clear in his voice. “I was so worried. Don’t ever do anything like that ever again.” 

“I’m sorry,” Haru murmured quietly, “but I couldn’t… I couldn’t stand there, as you get shot, now can I?” 

“I would’ve been fine, idiot!” Daisuke cried. “I take care of myself, unlike you! A bullet would be nothing for me.” 

Haru frowned sadly, and anger is starting to ignite in his golden eyes, and Daisuke felt like the most horrible person on Earth. “I--” 

“Save it,” Haru said, and all the joy drained from his throat, “you’ve said enough. You think I’m too weak to save you.” 

“Wh- no! I’m sorry,” Daisuke stammered, desperately holding Haru, and his eyes widened, even more, when he felt Haru push him away, “Haru--” 

“Go away.” 

The ground seems to be swallowing him up. 

“Huh?? I-- Haru!” 

“Don’t call me that!” Haru snapped, and his golden eyes were engulfed in the flames Daisuke had always been fond of--but now it feels wrong, plain wrong. “Since when have we been buddy-buddy with each other?!” 

“Huh?” No, no, no. He can’t make Haru angry the moment he finally wakes up. There’s no way he can last anymore without Haru in his life. “I’m sorry, Haru, please-”

“Leave. Now.” 

“No! I-- I can’t leave you again!” 

Haru smirks and the expression looks dead wrong on the face of someone like Haru. 

Gasping, Daisuke woke up in cold sweat, eyes wide and heart hammering. He looked around the dark room. 

Was… was that just a dream? A nightmare? 

Daisuke sighed, and tried to calm his breathing. He spared a glance at the sleeping Haru. Chest, rising up and down. Soft. None of that angry, evilly smirking Haru from his nightmares. 

Daisuke wiped his eye, staring down on his wet fingertips, silently thinking as he tried to calm his erratic breathing. 

Six Days Later

It is the day of Haru’s surgery. Doctors had assured the Kanbe siblings that it won’t be too risky, and it shouldn’t be fatal. It will take a while, several hours actually. Anything can happen during all that, which is why Daisuke is still nervous despite the doctor's saying it’s safe. 

Daisuke held Suzue’s hand tightly, feeling anxiety bubbling up in his guts as the worst possible scenarios presented themselves to his mind. Sweat beaded on his forehead, which he wiped with a handkerchief and shaky hands. 

Suzue eyed their conjoined hands, wincing slightly at the pain. She awkwardly patted him with her other hand, trying to sound as warm and soft as possible. 

“Daisuke, breathe.” 

“I am breathing,” Daisuke replied stiffly. 

“Daisuke.” 

Daisuke exhaled the air he didn’t know he was holding. “Oh,” he breathed out. 

“Please, relax,” Suzue said. “Haru will be fine, after all, you brought the world’s finest doctors, didn’t you? And what did they say? That Haru will be alright.” 

Daisuke nodded, closing his eyes. “Yes, you’re right. He’ll be alright. Of course he would be. World’s finest doctors. They-they can’t mess up. They’ll bring him back.”

Suzue frowned in concern. “Brother--” 

“He’ll be alright,” Daisuke interrupted, not hearing her at all, “of course he would be.” 

“You’re repeating yourself.” 

“World’s finest doctors. They cannot mess up.” 

“Daisuke!” Suzue slapped him across the face. 

Daisuke blinked in his seat, his mind racing, and his heart racing even faster. “Wha--” 

“You need to calm down, brother,” Suzue reprimanded, “you’re only making yourself even more worried! Haru will be fine, I promise, but you’re not right now. How about we go get coffee, and ease your mind a bit?” 

“...” 

“Brother, please. I’m worried sick about Haru, but you’re also making me worried.” Suzue begged. 

“Alright.” Daisuke finally relented, because he could go for some coffee right now. Delicious, hot coffee to help battle the icy fear that took hold of his entire body, freezing him in place and making his blood unbearably cold.  

They made it to the hospital’s dining area, and bought coffee from the vending machine. 

The Kanbe siblings sat at a table, silently sipping their respective drinks. 

Anxiety clawed at Daisuke, reminding him of the horrible things that could happen. 

Daisuke never felt this anxious before, and never this worried for another human being other than his sister. He never knew he could feel like this, so worried about a single person. 

“He’s going to be alright,” Daisuke murmured to himself, making Suzue look up, “and I’m going to tell him that I finally understand.” 

Suzue smiled.

One Day Later

The doctor had forbidden Daisuke from seeing Haru, whose surgery finally finished. 

Before Daisuke could snap at them, maybe fire them from the hospital which he owns now, Suzue stepped in and agreed. 

Suzue managed to convince Daisuke to go home and change, so Haru could see him in a good way. 

“It’s cruel for Haru to wake up, only for the first thing he sees to be you in such conditions!” She claimed. “Go home and change, and freshen up!” 

Grumbling, Daisuke agreed and that’s how he found himself finally home. 

Home… Daisuke hasn't seen this place in forever. More than two weeks, in fact, nearly three. 

Freshen up... I need to freshen up for Haru. With that, Daisuke stalked to his closet, and grabbed some clothes. 

“HEUSC.” 

“Yes, Master?” 

“Draw a warm bath for me.” 

“Yes, Master.” 

Daisuke paused, a lingering thought on his mind. Finally he spoke up, “HEUSC.”

“Yes, Master?” 

“Now that it’s safe to move Haru… Transfer him to the best hospital Japan has to offer.” Daisuke said. “No matter the price. And buy the hospital.” 

“Yes, Master.” 

Four Hours Later

“Mister. Kato is not awake yet, but the surgery was a success.” The doctor informed. “He no longer needs many of the machines from the previous hospital, including…” 

The doctor droned on and on, explaining why Haru won’t need certain equipment anymore but Daisuke doesn’t care. His eyes are trained on the still-asleep man in the hospital bed. 

“When will he wake?”

The doctor briefly paused, a little miffed at being interrupted. Then he cleared his throat. “Well, we cannot estimate exactly when Mister. Kato would wake up. However, any moment from now to as long as a week, seems most likely. Do not worry if he takes longer to wake, since he still is recovering.” 

Daisuke nodded, annoyed at the non-specific answer. 

“How much?” 

“Excuse me?”

“How much,” Daisuke gestured at Haru and around the hospital room, “are his bills?”

“Ah, I’m not the person to ask,” the doctor answered, “we will give you the bill once he’s discharged.” 

“Alright.” Daisuke looked at Haru once more, wondering what his reaction would be if he saw the bill. 

“Any more questions?” The doctor asks, clearing his throat.

“No,” Daisuke answered, “you may leave now.” 

Once the doctor left, Daisuke ran his fingers through Haru’s tangled locks. The sun is streaming once again, and it’s a much brighter color than weeks ago. Instead of a hazy golden-brown, it is a bright yellow that makes Haru’s skin glow.

It is quiet and the lack of several machines makes everything seem quieter. Haru’s chest rose and fell once again, and the oxygen mask is foggy with Haru’s breath. Daisuke wants to see the gold that haunts his nights-- the golden-brown that lights up in fury and looks at him lovingly. 

He let out a breath, looking down softly almost lovingly.

“You idiot,” he whispered, feeling like the moment is too fragile for him to speak too loud to, “you’re such an idiot. Now, please wake up.” 

Three Days Later 

“Ka--nbe?” 

Daisuke leaped on his feet, and a sense of deja vu washed over him. 

Staring at the bleary-eyed, slowly blinking man before him, Daisuke could tell this is no dream anymore. It’s reality-- Haru’s finally awake. 

Daisuke wants to cry and laugh and hug Haru and scold Haru all at once. A mix of emotions rose and he didn't know what to say or do, so he stood there, jaw wide from shock, eyes opened wide and disbelievingly, as Haru waited awkwardly. 

“Kanbe?” Haru tried again and Daisuke felt like an asshole for making Haru work, after only a few seconds of waking up from a coma. 

“H-Haru,” Daisuke stuttered and he took a step forward, hands shakily going up, hesitant, as if Haru would disappear the moment they touched him. They settled on the bed’s small handrail area. “You-you’re awake.” 

Haru frowned in confusion but nodded slowly. He then looked around, eyeing the spotless white which makes the random clothes strewn across, look unnatural, and out of place “Where--?” 

“You’re currently a patient in one of Japan’s best hospitals,” Daisuke informed, clearing his throat so he sounded as smooth and relaxed as usual. His voice cracked. 

“Oh.” 

Daisuke’s eyes swept over Haru’s figure, as if they haven’t already in the past three weeks. As if he forgot Haru’s taupe-colored hair, messy and lazily surrounding Haru’s face, and Haru’s golden-brown eyes that looked confused. 

“How long was I out?” Haru asked next. His voice is raspy and silent, so Daisuke had to lean to hear Haru better.

Daisuke blinked, weighing his options. Either he tells the truth, or risks Haru getting a heart attack with the truth. 

“A long time,” Daisuke answers instead, “far too long, you idiot.” 

Haru smiled wearily. He closed his eyes. “You’re… you’re okay, right?” 

“You’re the one in the hospital,” Daisuke raised an eyebrow, “and you’re asking me?” 

“Hey--” And Haru smiled a beautiful smile, soft and relaxed. The tiredness made it ever so warm, “I took a bullet for you, show some gratitude.” 

At the mention of the bullet, Daisuke’s mood plummeted and he glared at Haru. 

Haru jumped at the sudden dirty look. “What’s that for?” He demanded, fire returning to his eyes slowly. 

“Why did you take the bullet for me, you moron?” Daisuke snapped. A brief image of Dream Haru glaring at him flashed into his mind, and Daisuke immediately sobered up. “I-I mean-” 

“I just… I just saw the gun and didn’t think.” Haru confused, coughing slightly at the end. “All I knew was I needed to protect you…” 

Daisuke felt his face going red. “Moron.” He muttered. 

“Shut up,” Haru’s face followed the blushing-pattern, and Daisuke realized he also missed teasing Haru to the point of blushing. What doesn’t he miss about Haru, though?

“I would’ve been fine,” Daisuke spoke quietly, “I wasn’t dehydrated, malnourished, and I had a normal sleeping schedule. I could’ve survived a bullet.” 

Haru had the decency to duck, averting his eyes bashfully. 

There’s no hint of regret, Daisuke realized with a start. Why? 

“But you had everything bad, my idiotic partner,” Daisuke accused, “so why did you take a bullet for me? Because you weren’t thinking? Please. You’re the fastest thinker I know, and your reaction time isn’t something to laugh at.”

“I would take a bullet for anyone, because…” Haru faltered. “Because it’s the right thing to do.” 

That strong sense of justice, which he favors above money and riches. Daisuke finally understood why. 

“What if it wasn’t me?” Daisuke asked quietly. “What if it was a child, or our boss, or our other partners? Would you still…?” 

“Of course, idiot,” Haru answered immediately and strongly. “I said anyone, I mean anyone.” 

Ethical and moralistic. The two words that describe Haru perfectly. 

Daisuke’s eyes narrowed. 

“They’re all humans, and none of them are lower than you.” Haru met Daisuke’s eyes, and the two held an intense staring contest. 

Daisuke had never been compared to anyone else. He’s thought of--and practically is-- a god among mortals, what with his infinite riches and AI butler who could do anything for him. There isn’t a thing Diaukse doesn’t own-- except Haru Kato. 

The same Haru Kato who compared him to anyone else, the average person, as if they’re all equal. 

And strangely, Daisuke doesn’t mind one bit, other than the initial shock. 

“Haru…” Daisuke doesn’t know what to say. 

“Besides… you’re my partner.” Haru mumbled the last part, eyes avoiding Daisuke. His face turned red as he fidgeted with the blanket. 

“What are you implying?” Daisuke asked slyly and his usual smirk started to form. 

“I--” Haru’s eyes skirted and landed on the clothes on the ground. He frowned and looked around even more. “Did… did you stay with me this entire time?” 

Daisuke noticed the obvious subject change, but didn’t call Haru out. “Yes. I bought the hospital.” 

“What, why?!” Haru spluttered, whipping his head up. “Are you crazy?!” 

“Worried,” Daisuke corrected. 

“Why did you buy the hospital, Kanbe?” Haru gritted his teeth, glaring up at Daisuke with a red face that hasn’t faded away yet. Daisuke finds that absolutely adorable. 

“Because,” Daisuke’s heart hammered in his chest, but he needs to say the next words, “because I love you, idiot.” 

“O-oh.” Haru’s face reddens even more. “You-- you can’t just say it like that!” 

Daisuke tilted his head. 

“I wasn’t ready for that, idiot!” Haru spluttered. 

Daisuke smiled. “But it’s true. I mean it with all my heart.”

Haru looked down, the blush seemingly never fading away. “I-uh- same. I-I mean I love you too, not m-me.” 

Daisuke chuckled and he felt peace and bliss for the first time in too long. 

He leaned forward, way forward, and his face was a mere inch or two from Haru’s. Daisuke’s eyes lowered slowly as he leaned further, slowly and slowly, making sure Haru knew he had a choice to rip away. 

Haru didn’t. 

Their lips connected into the softest, most beautiful kiss Daisuke had ever experienced. Haru ripped back, blushing profusely. 

Through his messy hair that managed to cover his face, Haru looked up and made eye contact with Daisuke.

“I figured,” Daisuke whispered softly, “since you jumped in front of a bullet for me.”

“I--” 

The door slammed open, effectively scaring the shit out of the two men having their moment. 

“Mister. Kanbe, Haru’s heart-rate is--” The doctor paused his frantic speech with a blink when he noticed Haru awake and well. “I- uh…?”  

“Oh, right.” Daisuke murmured. “I-... doctor, please look over Haru. He’s finally awake.” 

“R-right.” The doctor nodded and scrambled towards Haru.

One and a half hour later

“Haru, you were right.” 

Haru looked up from the papers he had been looking at, eyes wide and expecting. “Hm?” 

“Money can’t buy everything.” Daisuke said softly, “Especially you.” 

Haru smiled softly and cutely. Not his usual snarky grin or his annoyed frown. But a soft, but big, smile that curves beautifully. 

“I’ve always said that, Kanbe,” Haru said, “you’re now realizing?” 

“Say my name.” Daisuke begged. “Please.” 

“D-Daisuke.” 

Daisuke smiled in complete bliss, lowering his forehead on Haru’s shoulder. “Again.” 

“Daisuke.”

“Again.” 

“Fuck off.” 

“Oh.”

Several months later

“Daisuke, I’m busy with my case here,” Haru sighed, pushing away the food Daisuke had brought, “I’m too busy to eat right now.” 

“H-Haru.” Daisuke’s voice trembled. “Please, eat.” 

“No, this case is way too important. I promise I’ll eat later.” 

Suddenly, a memory flashed in Daisuke's mind.

Then time slowed down the same time it sped up. Daisuke is suddenly hyper-aware of Haru hugging him, holding him tightly, and they’re spinning. The whole world is spinning. He can hear Haru’s heartbeat, and it’s beating so fast, like a little drum violated by a curious child. 

Then the second flashed with a loud bang and everything sped up way too quickly. 

Before he knew it, Haru’s on the ground, coughing out blood and trembling. 

“Haru, when did you last sleep?” 

Haru sheepishly shrugged. “Three days ago…” 

“How is he?” 

“Haru suffers from a bullet in the left shoulder, and a mild concussion from hitting his head directly after the shot. Body temperature is seventy-four degrees and is rapidly declining.” 

“Will he--...?” 

HEUSC paused a moment too long, and it made Daisuke’s blood run colder than ever. 

“I’m sorry, Master,” and the AI sounded sorry enough for an artificial being, “but even I cannot estimate the survival chances properly.”

“Haru!” 

“What?” Haru blinked. “What’s gotten in you?” 

“You see, Mr. Kato’s body isn’t in the right conditions. We figured he suffers from malnutrition and brain activity implies he may be missing too many hours of sleep. His body is already weak before the shot… we don’t know how long he can fight.” 

Daisuke stood there, frozen and pale. “So…” He smacked his lips, trying to get his running thoughts to calm down. “What… What does he need? I’ll pay anything-- don’t you dare worry about costs!” 

“We can’t perform surgery, it would be too risky in his already fragile state.” 

“S-so what can you do?” 

“I’m sorry, sir, but it would be safest if we put him in a medically-induced coma.” The doctor answered, his eyes lowered. 

“Coma?” Daisuke repeated in disbelief. 

“Come eat with me,” Daisuke cleared his throat. “I’ll give you sour candy.” 

Haru rolled his eyes but got up from his desk. “You’re bribing me.” 

Daisuke sighed in relief and kissed Haru’s forehead. “You need to take care of yourself, Haru.” 

Haru grinned. “Yeah, yeah.” 

Five minutes later, Daisuke is lovingly staring at Haru slurp noodles-- the finest kind made by the best chefs. He made sure Haru has water, not soda nor wine, and is planning on making the taupe-haired boy sleep afterward. 

If you can’t take care of yourself, Daisuke thought as he wiped away a stray noodle with a fond smile, then I’ll take care of you.

“Thanks!” 

“Of course, dear.” 

Because I finally understand you.