Archive of Our Own ^beta

It all began in Karasu's third year when the fall semester began, the second term of his third year. Karasu wasn’t one for getting involved in anything other than that required school club, but I guess you could say that this year was different. 

Karasu has had the same two friends since his first year. One with white hair, and a green dyed streak down the middle, the same color as his green eyes, he was another idiot as Karasu would describe him. This man, Otoya, would describe himself as a heartthrob, but in Karasu’s eyes— and the eyes of everyone around them -- that was heavily debatable. The other could be considered the real heartthrob, Yukimiya , he does modeling on the side, he has curly brown hair that he washes with expensive imported products, glasses that were made for him, and he’s all around a good guy. Someone who could never hold a grudge for long. 

Otoya was participating in the basketball club with Karasu since neither cared too much. 

Yuki on the other hand was head of the school council. He had been involved in it since their first year, and well, it was obvious that this position was deserved.  

Karasu was dreading the end of summer, at least it was the start of his final year. It was possible if Karasu knew what was to come this semester he might’ve been a little excited, ecstatic even. 

For a short while at least. 

..

Karasu changed out of his jersey, number sixty-nine, a navy blue and black tank top. His last name, Karasu, was bolded on the back in white. 

Otoya stood next to him, slamming his gym locker shut before he would go and fill his water bottle. 

After this they would go pick up Shidou Ryusei from the football field, and then they would head to Karasu’s. A routine they had maintained since the year prior.  

Karasu was great at basketball, football too, but he could care less about these sports right now. He’s too busy working a part-time job, and engaging in tomfoolery with Otoya to want to devote his time to these. The same could be said about school, Karasu was smart that was a given, analytical , and his intelligence could be shown in his test scores. But he could do better, if he actually studied in his free time Karasu could be the next Einstein.

“Are you ready?” Otoya asked as he returned to his friend, his water bottle now filled with ice cold water. 

Karasu hummed his response, “Mhm.” he shut his own locker, and slung his bag over his arm. 

The two left the club room walking shoulder to shoulder. The football field was on the other side of the school, the walk was a long one, but one that was worth it. 

As they walked they would kick a rock back and forth to each other. Finding a distraction to fulfill their boredom while they made the tiring walk. 

Karasu swore each day felt like a hundred, and it was still only the third day of school. 

Karasu sighed happily as the field came into sight. Practice was still ongoing, but Karasu and Otoya didn’t mind waiting and watching from behind the fence. Each took a seat on the concrete, resting their backs against one of the hard, cold, stone walls. 

Funnily…Shidou happened to be in the middle of an argument with one of the other members of his team. They were both wearing red practice jerseys, and they were at each other's throats.

The words Shidou was yelling were incomprehensible, Karasu could only make out a few insults; you suck, idiot, this is why you’re emo, stop being such a bitch! 

The other fed into Shidou’s frustration. A boy that was the same height, definitely not in their year, he looked familiar though as if Karasu had seen him before. The boy had black swept hair that was a mess from running up and down the field, teal eyes that stared into your soul, and extremely long under-lashes. His facial features looked so familiar , but Karasu couldn’t pinpoint why. 

The fight only became more heated as they continued to go back and forth in screaming fights. They were about to break out into an all out brawl, a fist fight during a football practice match! 

They were but— three members of their team grabbed them, tackled them, and pulled them away from each other before they could. Karasu internally thanked them, he did not want to see Shidou get in trouble on the third day of school. He needed to wait until next week at least.

Practice ended with that. Karasu couldn’t blame the coach, he would’ve put a halt to that shit-show too. 

How long until Shidou is kicked off the football team…? Karasu would need to bet on that with Otoya. 

Karasu and Otoya stood up, letting a few muffled giggles escape their lips. The entire fight was entertaining, and it gave fuel to use to tease Shidou. 

“Hey!” Karasu shouted and he aggressively shook the fence, a few heads turned, but Karasu couldn’t care about them, “Hey—!” Karasu called towards his friend once more.

Shidou turned his head up, and he met the eyes of the other. A wide smile found its way onto his lips, and he happily waltzed over to Karasu. 

Shidou approached, and he stood on the other side of the fence, “Karasu! Otoya!” Shidou greeted, his grin wide, his fangs on full display. 

“Hurry up, let's go get food!” 

“Yeah! Give me a second, ‘kay?” Shidou gave a nod and he waved as he ran towards the club room. 

Shidou collected his stuff, grabbed his bag, and then he delightedly walked back over to his friends. He exited the field, and met them on the same side of the gate this time.

Shidou widely smiled as he approached the two, they engaged in a complex handshake that they had made up the term prior. 

“Let’s go, yeah?” Karasu asked the two. 

The other two nodded, and then they were walking down the streets together. They could spend far less money at some cheap fast food restaurant near their school, and that was exactly what they were going to do. 

That led to the three of them sitting at a McDonald’s at 6:30pm. The establishment had few customers sitting down and eating, and it was almost completely silent when they weren’t talking. 

Shidou brought a tray of food to the table, each of their orders along with drinks, and he took a seat next to Otoya the two sitting across from Karasu.

Karasu looked up as he met the eyes of Otoya as he unwrapped his burger. A teasing grin grew on Otoya’s lips which Karasu reciprocated. 

This interaction sparked the following question from Karasu, “Who were ya’ fighting with?” Karasu asked whilst stuffing his face with fries, he gulped down his soft-drink right after, and then he looked at Shidou with raised brows. 

“Under-lashes?” Shidou asked, taking a sip of his own drink, “Rinrin is just some annoying forward on the team.” Shidou explained vaguely, giving few details about the other.

“He’s not in our year is he?” Otoya asked a question of his own.

“No.” Shidou answered, “He acts like a spoiled prince though.” He stuck his tongue out as he spoke, trying to convey a disgusted reaction, similar to his feelings about the younger. 

Karasu chuckled at Shidou’s reaction, he dipped his fry in sauce before turning his attention back up towards the other, “Why were ya’ fighting in the first place?”

“Because I stole his goal or something.” Shidou scoffed, he was annoyed, and then leaned back in his chair. Shidou sighed and he stretched his arms, “I guess he can’t handle the fact that I’m better.” 

“Awfully cocky, huh?” Karasu asked amused.

“Oh come on, I’m just being honest.”

“Uh huh…” Karasu laughed as he audibly spoke his response. 

“Why has this year been so boring!” Otoya groaned his complaint, and he rested his head on the gross, greasy table. 

“We’re three days into the second term, Otoya.” 

“Yeah but every person I've hit on turns me down.” Otoya sighed. 

Shidou and Karasu cackled at his statement, amused smirks falling idly on their lips. Karasu rolled his eyes, “Maybe you can try getting with someone when we start university…there’s more people.” Karasu offered his obvious but true advice. 

“Agreed!” Shidou smiled, “What about you Karasu! Anyone caught your eye?”  

Shidou smirked playfully as he asked the question. He leaned forward, and rested his head on the palm of his hand. 

Karasu snorted, “No. ” he answered bluntly, “Find me a person with a pretty voice, and a hundred stories and maybe that’ll change.” 

“Bor—ing.” Shidou sighed, “I agree with ‘toya I need something interesting to happen.” 

Little did they know 14 hours later an “interesting” event would begin unraveling. 

..

September 7th

“Put those papers over there…the clips go in this box, and make sure you’re here at seven sharp every morning.” The curly-haired brunette explained far too enthusiastically on this dull Thursday morning.

The brunette smiled at the other who stood next to him, intently listening to each word spoken, “Did this make sense?” The brunette asked, he readjusted his glasses, and gave the other a warm smile,

“…Ness.” 

“Yes.” Ness bowed his head in thanks, “Thank you, Yukimiya , this made a lot of sense.” 

“I’m glad, just call me Yuki.” 

Ness nodded and he smiled back at Yuki. 

On the other side of the room a redhead sitting in a chair, attending to his own duties spoke up with a question of his own, “I thought we couldn’t add anymore members to the student council?” 

The redhead's eyes fell upon Ness who stood relaxed next to Yuki. His arms were crossed behind his back, and his smile remained on his lips. 

“Ness is an exception, he’s an exchange student from Germany so be nice, Sae.” Yuki answered, 

“Mhm.” Sae hummed his response, and he turned his attention back to his task at hand. 

Yuki walked over to the table where Sae sat at, and he signaled for Ness to follow. Ness awkwardly took a seat next to Yuki. He stared forward and was presented with a disinterested unfamiliar face. 

“So…Ness,” Sae began, he placed his hand on the paper in front of him whilst taking his eyes off of it. His teal eyes met Ness’s own, his expression never changing, “…why become an exchange student?” 

Yuki raised a confused eyebrow at Sae, but he kept his mouth shut deciding to see where this would go. His eyes darted between the two as the conversation continued.

“I wanted to get away from Germany, but I also wanted to experience education in a different country.”

Sae nodded, “I was an exchange student a few years back. I went to Spain.” 

“How was it?” 

“Terrible.”

Yuki turned his head to the side, he had expected that answer, and Ness stared at Sae in shock. Ness didn’t expect such an answer, especially one stated so bluntly. 

As a silence fell between them Sae spoke once more, “That’s why I wanted to ask why?” Sae explained, he stood up abruptly, “Don’t have high expectations. Even if things seem like they’re going well, only bad things will follow.” 

Ness nodded and his eyes followed Sae as he left the room.

Yuki watched the ordeal, and then he let out a long sigh. He rested his hands on his face, letting his fingertips meet on the top of his nose. 

“Don’t listen to him…Sae always…is very—“

“I get it.” Ness replied, “It’s fine, don't worry.” 

“You’re in the same class as me. I can take you there if you want?” Yuki offered with another warm smile. Smiling always came naturally to him, whether that was from his good nature, or a habit he had built from modeling. 

“Please.” Ness answered with a nod.

“Of course.” 

Yuki stood up, and he collected his things along with his bag. He returned the supplies to their respective spots, and then he turned his attention back towards Ness. 

The two walked through the busy hallways, class was beginning soon, and everyone was going to their respective classrooms.

Ness followed closely behind Yuki, Yuki had given him a brief tour of the school earlier so he knew his way around to some degree. 

The door came into sight, above it read 3-C, that was the classroom they stopped in front of. 

Yuki turned his head towards Ness, “First day,” On the fourth day of school, “are you ready?” 

Ness nodded, and with that Yuki slid the door open allowing both of them to enter. Seats were claimed here and there, and Yuki walked towards the back of the class where two people sat. Those two people were conversing with each other having a loud and obnoxious conversation with each other this morning. Neither paid attention to their approaching friend, nor the unfamiliar face that walked behind him. 

The man sitting in the left corner had black hair, it was spiked up with gel, and whenever he spoke he had a smirk on his face. He was relaxing, feet raised on and on the table, leaning back in his chair, arms behind his head. 

To his right was another boy, he was leaning forward, arms resting atop his knees, and head resting against the fists of his hands. He had white hair, a long green dyed streak down the middle, and a soft smile on his lips. 

Both were laughing at something that wasn’t heard by Ness. 

Yuki pulled out his chair, his desk in front of the white-haired boys, and then he took a seat, “You can sit there.” Yuki said, pointing to the seat directly in front of the other. 

Ness listened and he took a seat, while Yuki was facing backwards, conversing with the two Ness had just met. Ness was facing forward resting his hand on the palm of his hand, and closing his tired eyes. 

“Who’s that?” Karasu asked in an overly loud whisper. His body was turned towards Yuki, but his eyes fell somewhere else.

“Alexis Ness.” Yuki answered with a smile, “He’s an exchange student from Germany.” 

“Hmm…” Karasu hummed his response with an amused smirk. 

Yuki only sighed and shook his head, pressed his fingers against the rim of his glasses to push them further up the bridge of his nose. 

Class was beginning, the bell ringing aloud, Karasu took his legs off of the tables, and sat properly— to an extent. He was still hunched over, in terrible posture, and his attention was focused on the unfamiliar person in front of him. He would definitely learn a lot today. 

“Pssst!” Karasu loudly whispered at the boy in front of him. However, the others' eyes never diverted away from the lesson.

Karasu let his lips fall into a frown, and then he grabbed his notebook. He tore a piece of paper out, ignoring how the loud tearing noise filled the almost completely silent classroom. 

Karasu folded the paper into a craft. A paper airplane to be exact, and he did exactly what you would expect him to. He made it fly.

Throwing the plane at Ness who sat in front of him. 

The plane hit the back of his head before falling pitifully to the ground below. 

Ness placed his hands on the back of his head before turning around and facing the culprit. Ness had raised eyebrows, and a confused expression on his face. He mouthed “what” towards the other in an attempt to get some sort of explanation.

Karasu only smiled and waved, “Hi.” he mouthed back at the other.

In response Ness just ignored him, turning back around, and giving his attention back to the lesson. 

Karasu sighed in defeat… for a moment at least. 

Karasu grabbed one of those small erasers you place on pencils from his bag. He had tons of these, and he began to throw them at Ness.

Each pelting him, but he never turned his attention back towards Karasu. The erasers hit him, and then fall onto the ground. 

Ness didn’t react though, and Karasu finally gave up. For now. 

Lunch came around after what felt like an eternity. Karasu’s eyes were turned away from the lesson the entire time. He was too focused on the mysterious boy in front of him to care very much.

Karasu didn’t know why he found the other so appealing. The possibilities were endless. Was it his fascinating features, the fact that he was new, or an exchange student that most likely had a hundred stories to tell. Perhaps he just wanted to hear his voice, a sound that he needed to hear this instant. 

Karasu would ignore his friends, questionably watching him, and his foolish antics. The annoyance of Ness could be felt from here, but for some reason Karasu wanted his attention more. Even if it was bad. 

Just the fact that Ness knew who he was, even if he didn’t know his name, he knew of him , and that was enough to continue motivating him. 

Karasu stood up, he held his chair in his hands, and then he glanced over at his friends. The other two watched him from afar, neither spoke a word instead observing in silence.

Karasu dragged his chair over to Ness’s desk, setting it down, and taking a seat next to the other. 

Ness watched unamused with a raised eyebrow, he pursed his lips then asked, “What?” he sounded disinterested, and more annoyed than anything. Not that Karasu could blame him.

“Can I sit here?” Karasu asked after already taking a seat.

Ness sighed, “You’re already sitting.” 

Karasu leaned forward, taking up Ness’s space, he rested his arm on the table, elbow resting against the surface, and he placed his cheek in the palm of his hand. With his free hand Karasu traced circles against the table, he stared at Ness with a dopey grin, and a glimmer in his eyes. 

“May I help you?” Ness asked far too enthusiastically, conveying happiness instead of annoyance. 

“I just wanted to get to know ya,’” Karasu maintained his smile, he took his eyes off of the invisible circles he was tracing, and then he met the eyes of the other, “…ya’ seem interesting.” 

Ness snorted and he reciprocated Karasu’s own grin, a playful smile on his lips, and an intrigued glimmer in his eyes, “Uh…huh…” 

“Tell me,” Karasu began, he placed his hand in front of Ness, and intensified the stare he had, as if he was trying to connect their brain waves, “…do ya’ have a hundred stories to tell me?” 

Ness’s eyes turned towards the white wall to his right, breaking eye contact. The expression he was displaying couldn’t be seen by Karasu. 

“What kind of question is that?” Ness asked, the level which he spoke was lower than before, and the confidence he had before was clearly dwindling. 

“I’m in love with the sound of yer’ voice…I’d listen to ya’ speak for hours and hours.” 

“Saying this to someone you just met?” 

Karasu let out a breathy laugh, letting the corners of his eyes crinkle as a wide smile fell upon his lips, “I guess I’m just a little crazy, huh?”

“More than a little…” Ness answered with soft laughter of his own, “…maybe I’ll tell you about Germany. As long as you promise to stop pestering me.” Ness spoke his conditions with a beautiful smile that never left his lips. 

“I’d do anything ya’ ask of me.”

“You really are crazy!” Ness replied as the volume of his laughter increased, he curled his hand into a fist, and placed it in front of his lips in an attempt to hide his expression. 

“Sometimes.”

“All the time.” 

“So, how’s Germany, I’ve never been. Should I go with ya’ one day?” Karasu asked boldy to begin a conversation. He was ready to hear one of Ness’s hundreds of stories.

Ness began to ramble on, it was sort of comforting to know Karasu was listening and taking in each word. His eyes fell upon Ness giving him his full attention. 

Karasu snorted, “No.” he answered bluntly, “Find me a person with a pretty voice, and a hundred stories and maybe that’ll change.” 

For once, fourteen hours after he made the statement, Karasu found someone with a pretty voice, and a hundred stories to tell. 

..

Karasu, Otoya, Yuki, and Shidou walked down the streets on their way home. The school day passed by quickly, and now they were on their way to Karasu’s house before the day came to a close.

There was a conversation going on between the three Otoya telling them about a new game or something. If Karasu was being honest he wasn’t paying much attention. 

Instead his attention was aimed towards the boy with the prettiest voice he’s ever heard. The way the words flowed like honey, a sweet, soothing voice, and the German accent. The mix was deadly towards Karasu’s heart, it was a sound he never wanted to stop hearing. It replayed over and over again like a broken record in his brain, the sound infused itself into his mind, and Karasu couldn’t complain. 

Karasu grabbed the house-key from his pocket, and he unlocked the front door as they approached it. He opened it wide allowing the other three to enter with him. 

Otoya had snacks in his bag, snacks that they had bought at a short stop at the corner store. 

Karasu sat on the floor, leaning his back against his bed, Yuki sat next to him, Shidou was laying on the floor, manga open in front of him, but the words weren’t being read, and finally Otoya sat in the chair at his desk, occasionally spinning around in it. 

The topics of conversation were typical, not too interesting, and nothing really stuck in Karasu’s mind. 

Not until the topic changed. 

“What was that earlier, Karasu?” Otoya asked, changing the topic of discussion out of the blue.

Shidou raised his eyebrows, and an amused expression arranged itself onto his face. He smirked and rested his head on his hands, his eyes darting between his three friends. 

Shidou whistled, “Hm? What did he do?” he asked with a wide maniacal grin. 

“Too much,” Yuki sighed, massaging his temples harshly, “…he’s already fallen for the new exchange student.”

“What? Exchange student?”

“Okay wait, I haven’t “fallen” for him.” Karasu countered with a roll of his eyes, “Just an interest.”

“I’m in love with the sound of yer’ voice…I’d listen to ya’ speak for hours and hours.” Otoya mocked with an overly high pitched voice. He exploded into laughter after he finished the statement. 

Shidou covered his mouth with his hand, muffling the impending laughter. Yuki turned his head to the right, away from Karasu, and he hid his laughter from Karasu. 

“I hate ya’ all!” Karasu groaned, he shook his head as the laughter of the others amplified, partially due to Karasu’s response. 

Shidou wiped a stray tear from his eye, “Don’t be so upset Karasu!” Shidou laughed as he attempted to reassure him, “Well… you could say I have my eye on someone too.” 

“Just an eye on them?” Karasu asked with a smirk.

“Yeah, that’s why we’re similar.” 

Yuki grinned, yet his smile seemed so devious, as if he was up to no good, “Who is it?” 

“Under-lashes.” Shidou spoke quickly. 

“That guy ya’ were arguing with the other day?!” Karasu asked in bewilderment, “What? Why him? I thought—don’t ya’ hate him?” 

“Isn’t his brother in the student council?” Otoya asked offhandedly.

“Yes.” Yuki answered, “Itoshi Sae. I know him decently well.” Yuki turned his attention towards Shidou, then he flicked his forehead as he spoke, “And I doubt he’d want his brother to be involved with a troublemaker like you.”

That’s why Rin looked so familiar. 

“Why’re you working against me Yuki?” Shidou groaned, he rolled over and set his book, open, on his face. 

“Just stating the facts, Shidou, you need to accept that.” 

Shidou stuck out his tongue, acting immaturely towards the other, “Whatever you say, Yuki!” Shidou stated enthusiastically with no intent to follow his advice. 

The conversation was coming to a close, and the topic was changed once more as Shidou spoke, “Clear your counters for the last Saturday of next month. October 28th.”

“Hm..? Why exactly?” Karasu asked, intrigued by the vague request. 

“You’ll find out once the date gets closer.” Shidou grinned, “Let’s just say…I’m working with someone to plan something… huge!” 

Karasu shrugged his shoulders, “Sounds interesting I’m in.” 

“Just off of that?” Yuki asked.

“Eh? Why not? It’s just Shidou.”

“I guess…but this sounds super suspicious, Karasu.” Yuki sighed his answer, he shut his eyes and shook his head before reluctantly agreeing as well. m

“I’ll go too.”

“It’s not anything bad!” Shidou cried in defense, “I just can’t say what it is yet!” 

..

October 20th 

Karasu maintained this routine for the days that followed. Even during the next few weeks of school. He’d pay little to no attention to the lesson in class, his mind focused on Ness, and the stories he’d been telling him. 

Then during lunch he’d sit at Ness’s table, rest his head on his table, but keep his eyes on Ness, listening actively. 

Karasu would listen to every word, each story, and it would all stick in his mind. Every detail about Ness became scribed in his brain his simple

interest was clearly more than that. An interest that shifted, changed, into infatuation, not yet a love, but it traveled the path there, his heart was taking a specific route. 

September passed too quickly, the fall season began, and October was already unway. Halfway through to be precise. 

Each day Karasu spent in class Ness was there, absorbing his thoughts, but he was also physically there as well. An exchange student that caught the eye of him, and a person with a hundred stories. 

Karasu knew so much in such little time, but what did Ness know about him? 

Ness had to know at least a little bit about him. Karasu would agree, even speak his own stories in similarity to Ness’s own. Karasu liked listening though, hearing the words flow out of Ness’s mouth, the genuine merriness in his words filled Karasu’s heart with warmth.

Ness must’ve been a mind reader. 

“Karasu.” 

Ness spoke his name aloud, taking Karasu out of his trance. It has been a little over a month since their monthly lunch began. Karasu was sitting next to Ness like he usually did, an arm on the table, his head leaning against his hand. 

Ness sat up straight, eating his lunch while also engaging in a conversation with the other. 

It was still kind of shocking—amusing even to see what Karasu’s little intrusion caused. The path he was traversing down took a harsh right instead of the left it had intended to take. 

“Huh? Yes?” Karasu asked, he blinked multiple times in the span of a second as he readjusted to reality. 

“You know so much about me…” Ness began, speaking softly with a smile, “…tell me one of your hundred stories.” 

Karasu let out a gentle laugh, “Anything in particular ya’ would like to hear?” 

“You mentioned— the day we met actually that you had met one of your friends through “bad behavior” would you like to elaborate on that?” Ness asked with a laugh, soft laughter, gentle, similar to his tone of voice. 

“Oh that.” Karasu let out a few chuckles of his own as he reminisced on the memories. The event that has transpired during his first year. 

Karasu sat up eagerly, he placed his hands on the table and a smile found its way onto his lips. A wide smile, a genuine smile, a happy smile, and a smile that Mess reciprocated. 

“It began during March, the first term of my first year. I don’t remember exactly what I did— had to be something idiotic.” Karaus let out a few laughs, his eyes darting towards the ceiling as he rolled them, “But Otoya, white haired guy ya’ know,” Karasu described pointing his finger towards his friend who sat at the desk behind them. 

“…he is just as stupid as me.” Karasu commented with a shake of his head, “Both of us had to clean the classrooms after school as punishment, and that’s how we met. It took forever to clean! We were too busy fooling around to pay much attention.” Karasu explained, “When we met we kind of just had that connection, and it has led us to engage in so much mischief.” 

“I take it you two are close?” Ness asked with a giggle of his own.

“Yeah.” 

There was a silence between them after Karasu’s story came to an end. Ness sat content next to him, a smile lying idly on his lips. 

Karasu continued to rest his head against his hands, his typical smirk also present. 

Conversations could be heard around them, but neither let a word slip from their lips. Karasu’s eyes darted around the room from the clock on the wall, the cold table his arm rested on, to Ness himself. 

Karasu then broke the silence with a question similar to the one Ness had asked, “Is there anyone you were close with…back in Germany?” 

Karasu let his eyes stay fixated on Ness. There was a change though, a big one, that was also miniscule at the same time. One that no one else but Karasu would notice. 

Ness turned his eyes away from the other, towards the white wall to his right. There was a distant look in his eyes, the smile on his lips quivered, almost falling into a frown. 

“Uh—“

Karasu was about to speak before the bell rang. The ringing takes Ness out of thought, and brings an end to their conversation. 

Karasu gave a smile and a nod before he got up, and walked back to his desk. Yet, the strange reaction never left his mind. 

There was a piece— a person missing from Ness’s hundreds of stories. 

Karasu was unable to ask Ness about it because he left too soon, and today happened to be a Friday. 

Maybe he will bring up the topic once again on Monday…

..

Karasu, Otoya, and Yuki walked towards the football field. The lights shining around it shined bright on this late October afternoon. The sun was beginning to set earlier, the sky getting darker sooner as each day passed. 

Once again they were heading to Karasu’s place. 

For some reason they always show up at the wrong times. Whether it was the fight Shidou had so early into school, or his many arguments or teasing of his teammates, the three always managed to arrive just when this was happening. 

When Shidou’s eyes fell upon his friends who were approaching, practice had just come to an end. 

Karasu recognized a familiar face near Shidou, the black haired boy with swept bangs, and teal eyes, eyes with long eyelashes. Itoshi Rin. 

Shidou’s words were faint, hard to hear from this distance, but Karasu could make out a, “Goodbye Rinrin.” After Shidou spoke he grinned, wide , and then blew Rin a kiss with his hand. 

“Hey!” Shidou shouted, waving his hands towards his wrong. Shidou picked up his bag, and then he began walking towards them. 

Karasu watched, amused by the interaction that Shidou seemed to just brush off. 

Karasu’s room, a familiar location for the four, where they have spent most of their evenings these past two months. 

Karasu sat on the floor next to Yuki, both leaning against his bed. Karasu had his head aimed up, and towards the roof. Otoya and Shidou laid on the floor, sharing a bag of chips they bought from the store. 

Then a conversation arose between them. 

“I convinced purple-bun to host a Halloween Party.” Shidou gave context to the statement he had made the month prior. 

Shidou spoke with a vague statement, “Clear your counters for the last Saturday of next month. October 28th.”

Karasu raised an eyebrow at the unfamiliar nickname, “Purple-bun?”

“Mikage Reo.” Yuki answered, “Rich, business man's son, oh, and he goes to a different school.” 

“Why a Halloween Party?” Karasu asked. 

“Why not is the better question.” Shidou answered with an amused smirk, then he let out a chuckle, “Halloween’s soon. So what better thing to do then have a Halloween party? We can get all dressed up, and spend an evening in a large mansion with a bunch of other teenagers.” 

Karasu let out a defeated sigh, “Yeah. Great. I’ll be there.” 

“Your exchange student pal should come too.” Shidou commented as he munched on another chip.

“Ness?” Karasu asked despite knowing the answer, he had a raised eyebrow, and he knew this could only mean trouble. 

“Yeah!”

“No.”

“What?” Shidou asked, flabbergasted, “Why not? He should go back to Germany with more than I spent everyday talking to this guy with too much hair gel in his hair.”

Karasu rolled his eyes, “Ya’ cannot be talkin’ about my hair, and it’s still the second month of school. He’ll go back with more than just that.”

“Yeah! If he comes to this party!” 

“No.” Karasu firmly stated, “This is a terrible idea.”

“Why’re you so against it?” Yuki chimed in with a question of his own. 

“I just think that a large party isn’t the greatest—“

“I think Karasu is worried Ness will find someone else. A more interesting person that'll wipe him off his feet.” Shidou cut him off with his own suspicions. 

“What the hell—that is not—what are ya’ on about?!” Karasu asked, clearly unamused. He groaned as he rested his head in his hands, “How did I get stuck with idiots one, two, and three.” 

Shidou cackled, “Everyone and anyones invited. Including the exchange boy.” 

“No—“

..

October 28th

It wasn’t Halloween yet , but they are about to go to a Halloween party. 

“A zombie.” Shidou commented as he stared at Karasu, “Bor—ing!”

“Yer’ going as a mummy I don’t want yer’ opinion!” Karasu shouted defensively, “Not to mention I haven’t dressed up since I was a kid.” 

Karasu faced the mirror once more, adding more red face paint all over himself. He was ruining a button-up shirt for this, but he might as well go all out. The shirt was cut and ripped, covered in fake blood, along with a cheap pair of jeans. 

Otoya entered the room once again after changing, yet he looked as regular as he always did. A black shirt, and dark-wash blue jeans, except he had a witches hat. 

“Oo! ‘toya! Let me paint your face green!” Shidou offered, taking his attention away from his own tasks. Said tasks being wrapping himself up in toilet paper. 

“Shidou…wouldn’t bandages be better?” Yuki asked, cringing his eyes as he watched the other, he let soft laughter leave his lips as Shidou’s expression changed.

“You’re right! Can you run to the store down the street real quick for me?” Shidou asked the brunette, he scrambled to grab his wallet from his pocket, giving the other money. 

“Yes.” Yuki nodded, he took the money from Shidou’s hand then headed towards the door, “I’ll be quick.” 

“Be safe Yuki!” Karasu shouted towards the other, taking his attention off of the makeup. 

“Yeah!” 

Yuki left and they continued to get ready. Karasu added the final touches to his look.

Shidou grabbed a dark-green, and he painted under Otoya’s eyes, nose, and cheeks green. Covering his face in messy splotches of green as the face-paint began to run out. 

Shidou waited patiently for Yuki to get back after his short trip so he could finish his costume. A mummy. Shidou decided that was the best option.

Yuki walked through the door around ten minutes later with a bag full of bandages. Shidou thanked him, and he immediately began wrapping himself again. Karasu was sitting on the floor, allowing Yuki to take the mirror as he got ready. 

“Oh Yuki what’re ya’ being?” Karasu asked.

“Vampire.” Yuki answered, he put fake fangs on his teeth, then fake blood around his mouth, “Basic but easy.” 

Shidou’s hair was down, slicked back, he had it like this because he covered pieces of his face and head with bandages. Leaving one eye exposed, but the other covered. 

There were only a few more touches to be added to the costumes, but they were done quickly. The sun outside was setting, and the four were ready to go to Reo’s mansion. 

They were getting a ride from one of Yuki’s drivers. One of the drivers that would drive him to his modeling shoots. 

In a car sat a zombie, mummy, witch, and vampire on their way to a Halloween party. 

The mansion was huge, gigantic, the biggest house? Karasu had ever seen. It was multiple stories, pillars holding up the large exterior, there were decks on the second floor where people hung out, and the front yard was a huge field in itself.

The interior was just as large as the exterior, bright lights, and a million people. 

People crowded the inside, Shidou couldn’t recognize any faces, there were people in each room, in the yards as well both front and back.

There was loud music and food. The most party party he’s ever been too. It was harder to recognize people when everyone was dressed up in silly costumes, a mess of makeup, and strange outfits on themselves. 

Shidou quickly drifted away from the group. He was wandering around the party, the neon lights, through the crowds of people. He definitely wasn’t looking for someone in particular. He just happened to be walking around observing the party alone. 

Then, it happened, his eyes fell upon a specific person. Exactly where he would expect him to be. In the corner, punch in his hand, unamused, and clearly not enjoying the party. 

Shidou cheerfully waltzed over to the boy in the corner. His black bangs swept, almost covering one eye. His face was painted like a skeletones, he was wearing a black turtle-neck, and jeans. Typical Rin with one change.  

Shidou grinned as he approached the other, Rin watched him, and he definitely recognized his face as the other approached, dressed up like a mummy. 

Shidou leaned his arm on the wall, and he shot Rin a cocky smirk. 

“Hey baby, are you a skeleton because…” Shidou began his pickup line. Then his mouth stayed open, agape, as he tried to find a sentence to finish it, “…uh…” Shidou began awkwardly laughing as he tried to mask his embarrassment from the failed pickup line. 

Rin sighed, he rubbed his temples, “Yes. I’m a skeleton.” 

Shidou smiled, “Cute makeup Rin-chan!” 

“Bachira did it.” Rin muttered, ignoring the compliment entirely. 

Shidou let out a soft laugh. 

“What’re you doing here?” Shidou decided to change the conversation with a question.

“Bachira dragged me here.” Rin answered in a few words. 

Shidou let out another laugh, awkwardly, the coldness from Rin making the other nervous. 

Shidou shrugged his shoulders, “Wanna go for a walk?”

“What?”

“Let’s go get fresh air, and away from all these people.” Shidou offered with a genuine smile, he offered his hand out towards Rin. The other was hesitant, he didn’t take Shidou’s hand, but he nodded his head. 

Shidou swore he only arrived at the party half an hour earlier yet he was walking down the streets with a skeleton.

Neither spoke many words, instead, they basked in each other's presence. The icy breeze on this cold October night was refreshing, outside was a lot less suffocating than that packed party. 

“Where are we going?” Rin asked, he shoved his hands in his pockets, and he shivered in the cold. 

“No idea.”

“No idea?” Rin asked, repeating the response Shidou gave with furrowed brows, “You dragged me out of that party without any idea of where to go?” 

Shidou scratched the back of neck, “Uh…yeah.” he answered with a smile. 

“Of course,” Rin sighed, “what was I supposed to expect from an idiot like you.” 

“I’m sorry Rin-chan! Don’t be mad!” Shidou spoke quickly, pleading with him. 

“Stop calling me that…” Rin muttered with a roll of his eyes. 

Shidou continued to walk next to him. The full moon was shining brightly down at them. Their shoes clicked against the concrete filling the silence between them.

Out here tons of stars could be seen, filling the sky because of the lack of light out here. Shidou had his head tilted up, and towards the sky, a smile falling on his lips. 

“Is there anywhere you’d like to go…?” Shidou asked, breaking the short silence between them, “Anything you’d like to do?” 

“Why’re you asking?”

“Hey! I’m trying to make you feel comfortable! You seemed like you were suffering back at the party.” 

“I’d rather be at home.” Rin answered, “Watching horror movies.” Rin mumbled his answer to the second question. His eyes were turned to the left, towards the road, watching the street, and the few cars that passed by. 

“Then let's go to yours and watch movies.” Shidou offered with a smile.

“Inviting yourself over?” Rin asked with a raised eyebrow. 

Shidou snorted, “You’re really going to make me turn around and return to the party?”

“Whatever.” Rin sighed, “I guess you can come with me, but you leave after an hour.” 

“Okay Rinrin!” Shidou grinned as he blissfully walked next to Rin. This entire situation was straight out of a dream. Everything went a hundred times better than Shidou could’ve predicted. 

Shidou turned his head towards Rin, “Why’d you give in so easily?” Shidou teased, “That’s not like you.”

“If I said no you would’ve continued to pester me.” It’s a pointless argument. 

Shidou let out a breathy laugh then let another comfortable silence fall between them as they walked to Rin’s house. 

Rin opened the gate allowing the two to walk up to the door. There were no cars in the driveway, meaning that his brother most likely was not at the house. 

Which was a good sign for Shidou. If Sae was there Shidou was sure he would get thrown out. Let’s just say…they haven’t had the best interactions.  

Rin unlocked the front door with a key, and then he let both of them in. 

“Take your shoes off.” Rin muttered harshly, before he took off his own.

Shidou put his hands up, and then he kicked up his shoes, leaving them by the door. Then he followed Rin up the stairs, and to his bedroom at the end of the hall to the left. 

Rin walked over and sat on his bed, watching Shidou intently. 

“Are you going to hit me if I sit next to you?” Shidou asked with a playful grin. He stood in the middle of the room eyes darting around the wall, observing his surroundings. 

Rin scoffed, “Yeah, if you don't grab my laptop first.” 

Shidou sighed and then his eyes fell onto Rin’s neatly kept desk. Shidou grabbed the laptop that sat on the table, aligned with the pushed-in chair. 

Shidou walked over to Rin, and he handed the laptop to Rin. Both of their movements were stiff, Rin moving to the side to make more room, and Shidou took a seat right next to him.

The window next to Rin’s bed was opened letting in fresh air, and keeping the room at a bearable temperature. 

Rin turned it on, and he began browsing, looking for a movie. Shidou didn’t comment, and he watched from his side. Once Rin found a movie he hadn’t seen, but one that also looked good, he clicked it, and then placed the laptop on his lap. 

Shidou watched from afar, from over Rin’s shoulder, but he wasn’t paying much attention. Instead, his attention was turned towards the skeleton Rin and his body language. 

The movie wasn’t all that scary either, well, that was probably because Shidou wasn’t paying attention. 

The conversations going on in the movie became white-noise to Shidou. He could hear intense music, the sound of violins, but his eyes were still staring at the younger. 

This went on for a while, Shidou can’t recall how long since he was in and out of thought for a lot of it. 

Rin pressed his fingertips against the spacebar, pausing the movie, and then he promptly turned his attention towards the boy next to him.

“What?” 

“What?” Shidou repeated, asking Rin the same question Rin had just asked him. 

Rin scoffed, “ What? You’ve been staring at me for the last five minutes.” 

“Have I?” 

“Don’t act stupid.” Rin muttered, he took the laptop off of his lap, and then he placed it next to him, “What?” Rin asked once more, repeating the question for a third time. 

“What? Can I not stare at you?” Shidou asked with a smirk, he crossed his arms over his chest, and then rested his back against the pillow, making himself comfortable. 

“You’re so weird…” 

Shidou tilted his head to the side, “Why’re you saying that?”

Rin rolled his eyes, and he didn’t answer the question. He laid down on his back, his eyes were still open, staring up at the ceiling. Shidou wished those eyes were on him instead. 

Shidou rolled onto his side, he was facing Rin now, and his gaze was still transfixed on the other. 

Shidou was so thankful it was night. Rin was beautiful under the moonlight, the blue hues making him shine, his features were absolutely gorgeous, this sight alone leaving Shidou breathless. Rin could grab his heart, and rip it out of his chest right now and Shidou wouldn’t complain. His heart was Rin’s anyways, it has been the moment he made him explode. All of this took place during one simple football game. That was all it took to see Rin through a new lense, and in a new light. 

An urge overwhelmed Shidou, the urge to reach out, and hold the hand lying next to him. Rin was still staring up at the ceiling, his arms falling to his side, and his hand never moving. 

Shidou swallowed harshly, swallowing down his nervousness, and he reached out. Shidou placed his hand on top of Rin’s own, before he interlaced their fingers. The action filled him with warmth, and made his heart flutter. 

Shidou took his eyes off of Rin for the first time in forever. He stared up at the ceiling as well, waiting for the impending rejection, but instead he was more shocked to find Rin turning his head towards the right instead of trying to free his hand. 

His eyes stayed gazing at Rin, then Shidou let out a bubbly laugh, he let the words flow out of his mouth, and he was speaking his mind without a care in the world. 

“You’re so pretty…”

Shidou softly laughed as he spoke, fondly staring at Rin. Despite the laughter it was clear he was being genuine, that was conveyed through his tone of voice, that and the affectionate smile he was displaying towards Rin. 

Rin slowly turned his head towards Shidou, his eyes were shut, eyelashes falling against his soft skin, and there was a faint smile ghosting his lips. 

Rin was absolutely terrible with words, but Shidou knew what this meant.

Shidou sat up, propping up his arm, resting his head against the palm of his hand.

“Open your eyes…” Shidou requested, as he moved closer to Rin. 

His heart was beating faster, his chest rising and falling at a rapid pace. The suffocating tension didn’t help this situation at all. Now that Shidou was this far in there was no turning back. It was now all or nothing. 

Rin’s eyes fluttered open, and his eyes met Shidou’s vivid pink ones. His stare was intense as if he were in some sort of contest against Shidou’s, and Shidou loved it. 

Shidou moved his face closer to Rin’s own, holding himself up with his hands that were pressed against the mattress. 

His lips ghosted above Rin’s own, their breaths mixing, hot air filling the small space between them. 

“Can I—“

“Just do it.” 

Shidou grinned and he plunged forward, messily meeting their lips. The kiss was magnetic , yet, it felt like an explosion . 

Shidou was drawn in by the motion, the feeling, and Rin himself. Now that he’s kissed Rin there was no way to give up on him. It was as if Shidou became addicted to him at that moment, and he was hooked by the taste. Rin’s kisses were messy, he was clearly inexperienced, but none of that mattered. 

Right now, the only important thing was Rin’s lips against his own. 

Rin pulled back and he moved on his own this time. Making a move by himself. He pushed a now sitting Shidou back and onto the pillow against the headboard. Then he crashed their lips together once more. It was as if they were fighting, but romantically and without the actual fighting. 

Rin wrapped his arms around Shidou’s neck pulling him closer, one arm carded through his hair, and the other laid loosely around his neck. 

Shidou softly cupped Rin’s face with both hands, holding him gently as their lips met. 

Rin pulled away first his eyes half-lidded, and he looked happier? than he usually did.

“Can’t believe I’m making out with a mummy.” Rin muttered as he wiped his lips with his hand.

“A hot one.” Shidou cockily replied before pulling Rin in for another kiss. 

Rin cringed his eyes at the response, “Bleh.” 

Shidou laughed and Rin shook his head before speaking, “You got your kiss can we watch the movie now?” 

“We aren’t going to talk about it?” Shidou asked with a frown.

“What’s there to say?” Rin asked his own question, “I don’t just kiss anyone. I thought you knew that.” 

Shidou grinned, he knew exactly what Rin was saying without directly saying. 

Rin grabbed the laptop, placing it back on his lap, and Shidou wrapped an arm around him, pulling him close. Shidou sighed in content, rested Rin’s head against his shoulder only getting a, “Seriously?” as opposition.

They had watched the rest of the first movie. Along with a second movie, almost a third, but they had changed to a show.

Shidou should’ve left hours ago, but he was still here with Rin in his arms. 

He felt himself smile, drowsiness washing over him, but he was too focused on the reality show playing on the screen. Shidou had persuaded Rin to put it on, saying that he would get into it once he learned the names and traits of all the contestants. 

Shidou was dozing off, resting his head against Rin’s own until there was a buzzing and vibration in his pocket.

Shidou shot up and he was quick to grab his phone from his pocket, Karasu, Karasu was calling him. Shidou sighed and he reluctantly picked up. 

“Yes?”

“Where the fuck are ya’?” Karasu practically yelled into the phone.

“Calm down. Calm down. What’s going on?” Shidou asked with a soft giggle after he finished his sentence. Angry Karasu with the chaotic mess of noise in the background was a deadly mixture. 

“We’re tryin’ to get out of here, but we can’t find ya’!” 

Rin turned his head towards the noise, raising an eyebrow, and mouthing a what. He was just as tired as Shidou, and it was obvious this volume of noise had woken him up. 

“About that…” Shidou spoke before swallowing a laugh, “I left a few hours ago.”

“Ya’ what?!”

“I’ll explain it later—I’m kind of busy right now Karasu! Catch me another time, ‘kay!” Shidou spoke quickly before hanging up on his friend. 

“What was that about?” Rin asked as the call came to an end.

“No idea…he doesn’t sound too happy though. So something must’ve gone down.” Shidou cackled. Shidou reached his arm forward, and then he shut Rin’s laptop. 

Rin handed him the laptop, and Shidou set it gently on the floor by the bed. Then he stretched his arms out.

Rin raised an eyebrow, “What?”

“Come here!”

“Why…?” Rin asked with a defeated sigh.

Shidou didn’t care to explain, and he pulled Rin onto his chest, wrapping an arm around me, “You kissed me earlier this shouldn’t be a problem.” 

“It is.” Rin sighed, “Why is Shidou so clingy…?” He asked rhetorically, not in search of an answer.  

“Pfft don’t act like you don’t hate it.” Shidou replied, his hand moved up to Rin’s hair, threading through it gently.

“I do.” 

Rin said that but he never made an effort to move. Shidou had a loose grip on him, and if Rin really wanted to he could easily break out of his grasp. 

Shidou stared up at the ceiling, and then he asked a question, “Do you think your brother will kill me if he finds out I’m here?” 

“Pfft,” Rin ridiculed him, “Obviously, you might have to sneak out of the window.”

“The window?” Shidou asked with raised eyebrows and an amused tone, “Sweetheart, sorry to break it to you, but your room isn’t on the first floor.” Shidou responded before pressing a gentle kiss against his forehead. 

Rin ignored his sentence, along with the nickname, and he changed the topic. 

“Your friend…the one that called.”

“Yeah?”

“That was Karasu Tabito right?” Rin asked, receiving a nod in response from Shidou. Rin let out a sigh, “What’s he going to do about the exchange student he’s been trying to get with?”

Shidou’s eyes widened, he was bewildered, how did Rin—Rin knew about this? Shidou doubted Rin knew Karasu, and Ness at that. Yet, he had details on the romance that had been brewing between them. 

“How do you know about that?”

Rin turned his head, and eyes up towards Shidou. Rin was just as confused as him, raised eyebrows, and pursed lips.

“My brother’s friends with Ness, and he talks about it to me for some reason.” Rin explained.

Shidou blinked rapidly, “Huh? You—what’s going on? What do you know?” 

“Sae just mentioned that this Karasu guy has been spending a ton of time around Ness…” Rin explained briefly, “…he’s brought it up during breakfast a few times.” 

Shidou emitted loud laughter from his lips. Shidou grinned at Rin then shrugged his shoulders.

“I don’t have an answer for that,” Shidou spoke amidst his laughter, “…knowing Karasu he’d probably go for it.” 

“Yeah, I assumed, but I don’t get why.” 

“Why not? I went for it with you and looked where—“ Rin shoved his face before he could finish his sentence, and then he sighed. 

“Ness is leaving when winter ends.” Rin answered, the words slowed time, it was as if what he said wasn’t real. Those words affected Shidou so much, so how would Karasu feel?

Shidou had assumed that Ness would be here until graduation, but with that advancement— that new knowledge this isn’t the case anymore. 

That means Karasu had until the end of December to try and woo Ness, or forget about him entirely. 

“What?”

“My brother’s in the student council…and they’re friends…so I thought the knowledge was known.” 

“Nah…I had no idea.” Shidou answered honestly, “I’m just extremely worried about how Karasu will take it.”

Rin shrugged and then he laid his head back down, making himself comfortable so he could go to sleep. 

“Don’t sleep yet, Rin.” Shidou stated before he sat up, disrupting his sleep entirely, “The sun is rising…I think I have to go right?”

“Bye.” Rin groaned tiredly before rolled over once more in an attempt to finally get some rest. 

Shidou placed his hands on Rin’s shoulder roughly shaking him, “Help me get my shoes! And say a proper goodbye!”

“Stop…fine.” Rin sighed before sitting up, Shidou halted his movement, and Rin rubbed his tired eyes. 

They slowly walked around the house, feet hitting each step as gently as possible in hopes to make zero noise at all. If Shidou was caught now there would be too much to explain. 

All they needed to do was get downstairs to the front door, then there were no more worries, and they did just that.

Shidou put on his shoes, not caring to tie the laces, Rin opened the door for him allowing him to go outside. However, saying goodbye to Shidou would never be that easy.

Shidou grabbed Rin’s arm pulling him outside, and into a tight hug. Then he pulled back. Rin raised an eyebrow, “That’s it? I expected more from someone as cocky as you.” Rin stated clearly in hopes to rile him up before they parted ways. 

Shidou grinned, “That’s what I like about you Rinrin.” he spoke before, wrapped an arm tightly around his waist, and pulled him in for one last sweet kiss. 

Shidou pulled away with a grin just as big as before, “Bye Rin!” He shouted as he turned around, walking away.

“You’re so loud!” Rin hissed, “Bye…” Ryusei. 

..

Shidou wasn’t walking home, instead he was going to Karasu’s. Shidou knew his friends must’ve crashed there, and it only made sense after all. Shidou checked the time on his phone, 4:07am. He would be there in around an hour. 

Shidou knew that the window would be unlocked, opened even, and he would climb in just to sleep on the floor.

Otoya and Yuki would be there too, asleep, Karasu would either be awake, waiting , or asleep as well on his bed. 

As Shidou climbed through the window he observed the three asleep. Otoya sprawled out on the floor, Karasu curled up on the bed, and Yuki’s head laid on a pillow against the bed. Shidou shrugged and he threw his exhausted body on the floor where he would sleep until late in the afternoon.  

..

It was around 5:00pm, the four were still at Karasu’s house early into the evening on this Saturday. 

Karasu had a damp towel on his shoulders, his hair wet and down. He was in a white tank-top and sweatpants. 

Shidou had left the mess of bandages on his floor, and his hair looked similar to the others. He had been in these uncomfortable jeans since yesterday, but there wasn’t much he could do. He should’ve stolen some clothes from Rin yesterday. 

Otoya had a mess of smeared and faint green face paint on his face. It had come off the night before and as he slept.

Yuki looked normal. His hair was nice and flowing, there was no mess of makeup on his face, and he looked as he always did. A natural born model. 

Shidou sat happily on the floor kicking his feet, the feeling of Rin’s lips on his own was still such a familiar feeling. It was as if he could feel it right now, and the memories of the previous night made his heart flutter. 

“What’s with that grin?” Karasu asked in amusement, Shidou knew he had a stupid expression on his face, and it wasn’t like he was trying to hide it.

Not that he could. Last night was a dream, it was too perfect, and every moment replayed in his mind over and over again. 

“Something.” Shidou answered vaguely, “What happened last night? You sounded pissed off on the phone last night.” 

“Too much…” Karasu sighed, and he rolled his eyes. Then he stared directly at Otoya who had a cheeky grin on his face.

“Karasu, you're just being overdramatic.” Otoya spoke up, yet, he didn’t provide any information on why. 

Shidou sighed and he turned his attention towards Yuki, “What happened?” 

“Ness was there,” Yuki answered with a grin, “…Otoya was teasing Karasu the entire night. Trying to set them

up, but both could hear his plans. Karasu was fed up with it.” Yuki elaborated further letting out a few laughs of his own as he remembered the night prior.

“Karasu was profusely apologizing to Ness when we left!” Otoya added on before exploding into his own fit of laughter.

“I hate ya’ both. Worst wing-man ever.” 

Shidou cackled, “I had a great night.” He sighed contentedly as he spoke. He rolled over onto his back, and rested his head on his crossed arms behind his head. 

“Yeah? Where’d ya go? Ya’ hung up on me out of nowhere last night!” Karasu asked, a hint of frustration in his voice. 

“I was with Rinrin.” 

“Hah?” Karasu asked in response with a smirk. He wasn’t taking Shidou’s words seriously, “No way.” 

“You’re great at taking advice Shidou…if I see Sae pissed off on Monday I know why…” Yuki sighed as well. 

However, Yuki shot him a soft smile, “How’d it go?” 

“Great. We watched a movie, kissed, watched a reality show, and then I left.” Shidou explained in a few words, ignoring the smile that grew on his lips as he spoke. 

“Really?” Karasu asked wide eyed. 

“Yeah…we’re like official without being official…” 

Karasu groaned, “Lucky…” he mumbled in jealousy. Not that Shidou could blame him entirely. 

“Oh! Karasu,” Shidou perked up as he remembered something. He called the name of his friend to grab his attention, and then they made eye contact.

“Ness is leaving when winter ends.” Rin answered. 

“Ness is leaving when winter ends.” Shidou informed him, repeating the same sentence Rin said prior as he broke the news.

Karasu laughed in disbelief, “What?”

“I was surprised too…apparently he’s only going to be a student here for one term.” Shidou explained, reaffirming his statement.

Then, Shidou voiced his own opinion on the situation. 

“I think you should give up on Ness.”

“What…?” Karasu had the smile on his face dropping into a frown as he asked the question.

“I agree,” Yuki chimed in, he readjusted his glasses, “It’s not worth it Karasu. Going after someone who will be leaving two months from now is a heartbreak waiting to happen.”

“Don’t go out with him, Karasu.” Otoya voiced his own, similar , opinion. 

“Hah…? I’ll keep yer guy's advice in mind then.” Karasu answered, yet, he broke eye contact with all of them. 

That was a blatant lie. 

..

The sounds of dishes hitting the table, and glasses being picked up and placed back down filled up the silent atmosphere. 

Two of the four spots of the table were claimed as there were only two of four people in town right now. At the house at this very moment. 

The food was still steaming, it had just been taken out of the pan, but Rin didn’t care. He was attempting to eat as fast as he could so he could escape upstairs to his room.

However, Rin would never be able to eat fast enough. 

Sae sat across from him staring intently at his brother. It was as if he was trying to pry information out of his brain. 

This entire silent interaction made Rin question Sae. When he woke up this morning he was sure Sae had no idea what happened last night, but now he’s sure Sae knew he snuck in Shidou. 

“Shidou Ryusei huh…” Sae spoke up, breaking the intense silence. 

Rin dropped his food, it plopped down, and back onto his plate. His hand shook as those three words replayed over and over again in his mind. 

They weren’t as sneaky as they thought they were. 

Rin sighed defeatedly, and he gave up, now that Sae knew there was no way to try to convince him he was wrong.

“How’d you know?”

Sae let out one of his rare laughs, a mocking one, and he stared at Rin as if he were an idiot, “Front door was unlocked this morning. I locked it when I got home last night. There was an extra pair of shoes by the door, and when I walked by your room I could hear his voice.” Sae stated, providing too many pieces of evidence.

“You recognize his voice just like that?” Rin asked, snapping his fingers along with the that. 

“Yes,” Sae sighed, “Shidou is a terrible influence. I only recognize his voice because I’ve scolded him so many times. He’s a troublemaker, I’ve dealt with him before and after school, I’ve assigned him to clean classrooms, and I’ve had to do so much because of his troublemaking.” 

Sae took a breath and then he cotninued his rant, “If you’re going to get involved with him? Your grades may fall, and you’ll get involved in way too much trouble.” 

Then there was a long pause. Sae stared down at his plate, and then back up at Rin.

“Does he make you happy?”

“Huh?” Rin asked before pausing again then he slammed his hands on the table, “Why would you ask that?” 

“I’ll take that as a yes.”

“I never said that! You can’t assume I actually like that freak!” Rin complained.

“It’s obvious…” 

The Sae that Rin was talking to right now was a lot different than the Sae who had just returned from Spain. The cold Sae who didn’t care about him, nor him hobbies anymore.

The Sae who had given up on his passion. 

The Sae who stopped acting like an older brother once he quit football, and the Sae, Rin had stopped looking up to. 

..

Karasu had lied. That was obvious, it was the first week of November, and Karasu was still giving all of his attention during the school day to Ness. 

Karasu had lost count of what story they were on, thirty-one? forty-six? twenty-eight? Karasu didn’t know, but he was mesmerized by every word Ness said. 

His simple interest—curiosity whatever you wanted to call it became more than that a long time ago. 

Each day with Ness made him feel euphoric, and then seeing his friends after practice. A perfect mixture that made his second term so magical. 

Shidou, Yuki, and Otoya had all told him to give up on Ness, but he couldn't, not after all of those days spent together. He knew Ness better than himself at this point. Their conversations were comforting, and Ness’s full attention towards him when he would speak, knowing that he cared as much as Karasu did was… nice. 

Thursday November 2nd

Karasu, on this Thursday, stood in his kitchen. It was after-school, his house was empty, and he was the only person there. The oven was preheating, and there were plenty of ingredients placed on top of the counter. 

Karasu was planning to bake sweets, and confess to Ness the next day. If Shidou could win Rin over then Karasu could win over Ness. 

Except he was left with a mess in his kitchen. I mean the baking was complete, the chocolates turned out better than he could’ve ever expected, but the mess that it left was going to take double the time to clean.

He would do it though he had the chocolates, and a cheesy love note for Ness. All of it. It was all prepared. Tomorrow would go by without a hitch, and Karasu could only hope to hear the words, “yes” fondly leave Ness’s lips. 

So as he stood by the front door, school uniform on, hair done up nicely, gelled, as he had done it any other day. He had a confident smirk on his face, and a beating heart that raced for Ness. 

In his bag kept safely on the side was Ness’s gift, one he would give him after school. 

Well, he would if he could make it through the school day without his heart exploding. 

Friday. The final day of the school week, and the 3rd of November. A day that Karasu would either never forget, or try to erase from his mind until the end of time. 

Each click of the clock rang in his ears, time passed slowly, his anxiousness never leaving his body. He was confident, he was Karasu after all, but asking out such a person would leave his palms sweaty. Ness was the perfect person. He fit Karasu’s description of someone, and as Ness went through each story with Karasu this fact became truer and truer. That pretty voice, and each of those stories replayed in his mind every second of the day. 

And… Karasu hoped that he was picking up on the signs…the correct ones at least. The signs that Ness was throwing at him, the ones that said I love you too, Karasu.

Just the echo of that sentence said in that pretty voice in his mind was enough to make his cheeks flush red. 

Then the day came to an end. Karasu had asked Ness to wait at lunch. He was definitely going to be late for practice, but that didn’t matter right now. Ness was the importance in this moment, and in every other one. 

Karasu collected himself, telling his friends to leave without him, he swallowed, wiped his hands against his black pants, and he faced Ness. Ness stared at Karasu, those pretty magenta eyes meeting his own. Those eyes that Karasu could get lost in. The sight he’d focus on as those enticing stories flowed out of Ness’s mouth. 

“Hey…uh—I have a question.” Karasu broke the short silence after the bell with an explanation for why Ness was here. He rubbed the back of his neck with his hand before he reached down and into his bag. 

“Yes, Karasu?” Ness asked sweetly with a soft smile on his lips, his arms behind his back, and he stood right in front of the other. 

“Here,” Karasu spoke sheepishly as he handed the sappy letter and cheesy typical romance chocolates to Ness, “Don’t read the letter right now…” Karasu’s eyes turned away from Ness, and towards the dull walls. The embarrassment being felt now, those feelings practically rushing through his veins. 

“What does this mean, Karasu?” 

Karasu glanced back over at Ness, their eyes meeting once more, “I wanted to ask ya’ on a date, Ness…what do ya’ say?”

Each second felt like a century. Karasu was hoping Ness would speak, and get this tension filled situation over with.

Karasu didn’t breathe while he waited for an answer, only blinking as he maintained eye contact with Ness. 

“Yes.” Ness answered fondly with a tender smile on his lips. Ness held the gifts tightly in his hands as he beamed at Karasu.

Ness took his breath away in that moment, the answer, his smile, and the answer entirely felt like a dream.  

“I have to go to prac—“

“When and where?” Ness asked, cutting Karasu off before he could leave, “You planned for that right?”

“Oh, yeah, meet me at the front of the school at five, ‘kay?” 

Ness nodded before humming his delighted response, “Mhm!” 

Then Karasu was off to practice, and Ness was off to fulfill the duties he had to do before they meet only an hour from now. 

..

“Ready?” Karasu asked, as he extended his hand out to Ness, confidence overtaking his body.

The sun was already setting at this point, and Karasu had a plan for a sloppy but thoughtful date. They walked to a convenience store, buying food, drinks, and anything else they wanted. Then they continued their walk hand in hand all the way to a local park near Karasu’s house.

They walked through a large field, the sky covering the surfaces below in a mix of orange and yellow hues. Above the sky was clear, the sky was always clear around Ness. 

Karasu took his sweatshirt out from his bag, and he laid it out on the grass. The spot he picked was under a large tree that would provide them shade. The sweatshirt wasn’t the biggest nor the best, but it worked good enough for a makeshift picnic blanket.

Karasu took a seat on the “blanket,” his legs extended out, and he began to place the food items in between them. Ness took a seat next to him, his legs crossed, they were close, his knee touching Karasu’s thigh. 

This was a lot different than the other times they were together. Sitting next to each other at Ness’s desk while Ness rambled on telling a story with Karasu making comments every here and there.

“Ya’ should tell me a story,” Karasu said to try and ease the awkwardness between them, “I want to hear yer’ voice.” 

“Another story?” Ness asked with a soft giggle, he smiled as he twisted the lid to open his drink.

Karasu nodded, “Yeah. I want to hear a hundred stories from ya.’” Before you return to Germany. 

“I think I’ll have a hundred stories to tell…” Ness murmured happily, he averted his eyes away from the sunset and to Karasu instead. Ness reached out, placing his pinky on top of Karasu’s own, linking them. 

Ness sighed contentedly, “Anything in particular you would like to hear?” 

“When I go to Germany with ya’ one day, where would ya’ take me first…?” Karasu asked, he leaned over, and he rested his head against Ness’s shoulder, “Do ya’ have any special memories there?” Karasu asked, extending his question. 

“Hmm…that’s a hard one. There’s plenty of wonderful places.” Ness began, pondering, he placed his free hand against his face as he debated where the perfect place would be. 

Karasu waited patiently for an answer, and a story to go along with it. 

“A park…similar to this one. I know which specific one too, one near my childhood home with a large field like this one.” Ness answered, Karasu couldn’t see his face, but he could hear his smile in his words. The genuine happiness…that warmed his heart.

“Why a park? That one specifically too?”

Ness sighed, there was a change in his tone, his body language too as he began the story, “I won’t go into much detail, but I met someone there…as a kid…a very important person to me.” Ness answered, there was a hint of sadness in his words, but that quickly changed as he spoke again, “Important like you.” 

“We have to go someday then,” Karasu smiled as those sweet words continued to repeat in his mind like a broken record. 

“You’re so enticed by my stories…why?” 

Karasu let out a breathy laugh, the question didn’t make much sense to him. The answer was right in front of him. Ness was enticing, everything about him, from what was on the outside to his personality, and the many stories he would tell in that sweet-sweet voice. All of it was the perfect formula to captivate Karasu. 

Karasu pulled off of Ness’s shoulder, and he faced the boy face to face, “I’m not just enticed by yer’ stories.” He answered truthfully, there was so much more to Ness than that. 

A wide smile, or one of those typical Karasu smirks as it could be described, formed on Karasu’s face. His eyes were filled with love, glimmering brightly as he stared lovingly at Ness.

Karasu reached out, and he held Ness’s hand properly, interlacing their fingers, and locking their hands together. 

“I’m in love with ya’ and yer’ stories,” Karasu declared fondly towards the other, he let the words continue to leave his lips. Everything he said was honest and fueled by these intense emotions he held for the other, “And one day I wish to hear every single one of them, Alexis.” 

Ness beamed at the statement, “I’ll tell you every story, and we’ll make more together.” 

Together. That one singular word Karasu had heard thousands of times before was so different now. Together, he and Ness were together, their lives intertwined with one another, a connection between them. 

A range of different colored leaves fell from on them as a breeze shook the branches of a tree. The sun fell behind the mountains leaving the sky a dull blue, it was darker than a baby blue but not yet a navy blue. 

The sky was clear and the stars would shine above them, but nothing would shine brighter than the man to his right. 

“I’d like that.” Karasu spoke honestly in response, never breaking eye contact with Ness.

All of it felt surreal. It felt like only a day prior they were strangers, Karasu was bothering him, and Ness was putting up with him. But time was passing quickly— too quickly it had been months since they first met. 

Those words Shidou spoke never left Karasu’s mind. Karasu knew what was bound to happen at the end of next month, but for now that wasn’t an issue. 

Then Ness was waving a hand up and down in front of his face, “Karasu?” he questioned with a soft smile, “ Karasu—“ he spoke again, dragging out his words.

Karasu blinked a few times as he was brought iut of thought and back to reality, “Hello, you with me?” Ness asked amidst laughter. 

“Yea—yeah, I’m always here with ya.’” 

There was silence once more, for a short period of time, the sound of wind was the only noise heard. 

“When I said I loved ya’ I meant it.” Karasu murmured, he caressed Ness’s cheek with his hand before brushing a strand of his hair behind his cheek, “I’ll mean it everytime I say it…” 

“And if I say I love you too …then what does that mean for us?” Ness asked, leaning into the touch, melting against Karasu’s hand, his eyes shutting gently.

Us.

“Ya’ say that and I’m yours forever.” Karasu answered boldy, “We’d make a million stories together.”

“A million?” Ness asked, amused, I’m not sure I’m ready for that level of commitment.

Ness opened his eyes, “I love you too,” he wanted to say his name, but when he opened his mouth no words would leave. 

Karasu smiled endearingly and he placed his forehead against Ness’s own. He shut his eyes, and rested there for a moment. Then he opened his eyes and he moved, his lips pressed a gentle kiss to Ness’s cheek. 

Karasu’s movements were slow and tender until he swiftly reached out and pulled Ness into a tight hug. He engulfed the other in warmth, and he rested his head against his shoulder, allowing himself to bask in the feeling of love. 

“Hey I was wondering if you…”

..

Sunday November 4th

It was pitch black outside. The stars above them weren’t enough, and the moon was a small crescent. Karasu sat on a lavender patio chair, leaning back in it, the wood creaking as he did so. 

Shidou grabbed his phone from his pocket using the flashlight as a guide. He pointed it towards the firepit illuminating it along with the outdoor surroundings. Yuki placed wood on the firepit, and then he grabbed a long lighter. Yuki placed the lighter on the wood, leaving it there for a few moments before the wood would eventually catch fire. This caused a reaction, each piece also catching on fire, lighting up the fire pit. 

This fire-pit was their main lightsource, after they did this Yuki walked over to an outdoor outlet turning on the lights that were hung across the patio. 

Karasu’s face was illuminated by an orange hue from the mix of the lights and fire. 

Next to Karasu sat a stiff Ness, it must’ve been semi-awkward for him, he was at a place of someone he knew, but all the other guests except one were strangers. 

Yuki’s yard was huge, a field, a large patio, and it was perfect for this night. 

Shidou was quick to run over to the grassy part of jis yard, he was kicking a football back and forth with Otoya. Yuki took a seat on a one person couch, and Rin sat near the fire on his own empty couch. 

The fire burned brightly providing warmth and light to the guests surrounding the couch. Shidou and Otoya were less visible in the grass, but you could still observe their little game from afar.  

Karasu wasn’t intending to outright say “Hey I’m actually dating Ness now!” Especially with the weight that statement carried. A week ago they were telling Karasu to give up, and now he’s dating the very person he was told to give up on. 

But he knew he was making it obvious. When Ness was around he couldn’t take his eyes off of him. That love filled stare would stay engrossed by Ness. He was enthralling. 

It was as if Ness was a magnet, a positive , and Karasu was also a magnet, a negative , connecting the two of them and bringing them closer.

But…it was possible Karasu’s look on things was wrong, maybe he was always a positive alongside Ness or the opposite. 

Karasu hoped that wasn’t the case because with the same poles they would repel. 

Ness smiled, “What?” he asked, taking Karasu out of his somber thoughts. 

“I’m jus’ admiring ya.’” Karasu grinned, letting the sappy whispered statement leave his lips without shame, “Ya’ get prettier every time I see ya.’”

“Shameless.” Rin muttered in annoyance, “People are around, you know.” 

Karasu sighed, “Jealousy is a disease, Rinrin.”

“I don’t think I have anything to be jealous of. This is sickening.” Rin murmured in response, he rolled his eyes, and brought his attention anywhere but the gross couple to his left.  

None outright commented on their relationship. Karasu assumed that they would wait until he was alone. Allowing the night to go smoothly. 

This was just one of many memories that was made over these four long months. Well, more like two, it was November now, and they had to make the most of November and December before Ness would leave.

..

Every Saturday in November Karasu took Ness on a date, whether it was out to dinner, the movies, another picnic, or a walk on the beach together. Each added new memories to the many they had together. Another story. 

Ness had stayed the night at Karasu’s house only to find Karasu hanging halfway off the bed the next morning still asleep. He was exhausted after a long day of school along with spending the entire night talking to Ness. 

School never changed. Just because they were officially dating, Ness would tell Karasu one or more of his hundred stories each day. 

They were on eighty…ninety…as winter began they inched closer and closer to the hundreth. 

Karasu wanted to kiss Ness at least a hundred times before he’d leave. He made it a habit to kiss Ness before and after each story.  

Karasu was dreading it. Time had been moving too quickly, it wasn’t like they had much time together to begin with, but time was moving faster than it ever had before. 

One second it was November, and now it was almost the end of December. 

Karasu frowned as he checked the date on his phone for the hundredth time, December 29th. It was a Friday, and he was going to see Ness today. Karasu saw Ness often, he tried and tried to see Ness as much as he could. The weight of the situation became heavier as each day passed. Three more days. Three days. 

Karasu wanted to kiss Ness during the firework show. Get a picture too, something to remember Ness when he was so far away. That was two days from now. 

Then on the third day he would say his goodbyes to Ness at the airport. 

..

December 30th 

Karasu had the curtains shut over his windows. Not allowing any natural light in, it was early in the evening, and the sun would set soon. 

In the dim room sat Karasu and Ness on his bed. They were hanging out at Karasu’s house like they did most days after school. 

Karasu had his arm around Ness, letting himself relax comfortably. Even when he was with Ness his fears and worries never went away, but he would never speak about it to Ness. For one he didn’t want Ness to worry, and he especially didn’t want him to worry about something neither can fix. In two days Ness would be gone, and Karasu didn’t know when he would see him again. 

It would all be okay in the end…right? 

There was a comfortable silence between them. Karasu had his eyes shut and his head resting gently against Ness’s own. They were lying under the blanket, cold air seeping into the room from the window which was open ajar. However, the mix was perfect. It wasn't too hot or too cold. 

Ness wasn’t asleep, he had tea on the bedside table, and he was working on something on his laptop. Karasu didn’t know, he was listening to the gentle typing, and Ness’s just as soft breathing. 

Karasu could’ve fallen asleep like that. He could’ve but Ness shut the laptop, harshly, and the slam startled Karasu. 

“Sorry.” Ness apologized quickly as Karasu sat up. 

“It’s fine…” Karasu replied and he rested his head back against Ness’s. 

Ness put his laptop on the bedside table, and then he picked up his tea, holding it with both of his hands to warm his body. Karasu 

Karasu was going to try and sleep again, get a nap in since he was so exhausted. They didn’t want to go out because it was snowing too hard, and it was too cold. Walking down the icy streets would be a nightmare. 

Ness asked a question though, taking Karasu out of his drowsy state, “Do you remember when you asked if there was anyone I was close with back in Germany?” 

Karasu then broke the silence with a question similar to the one Ness had asked, “Is there anyone you were close with…back in Germany?” 

Karasu let his eyes stay fixated on Ness. There was a change though, a big one, that was also miniscule at the same time. One that no one else but Karasu would notice. 

Ness turned his eyes away from the other, towards the white wall to his right. There was a distant look in his eyes, the smile on his lips quivered, almost falling into a frown.

Karasu’s eyes widened, he had never brought it back up since it seemed like a sensitive subject to Ness. Not to mention it was months ago, “Ya’ remember that?” Karasu asked in disbelief, and he let amused laughter flow from his lips. 

“I listened to every word you said to Karasu…” Ness smiled, “…you were so sweet to me, and you showed me genuine love of course I would.”

The past tense words made Karasu’s heart race in the worst ways. He could puke at that very moment.

Ness then glanced up at Karasu, “There is someone I am close with back in Germany.” 

The present tense words only fueled Karasu's nervous emotions. The tension grew between them, what did this all mean? 

“His name is Michael. Michael Kaiser.” Ness began, the tone of voice he used was sickening. There was clear fondness, a large care, and a love that Karasu would try to deny, “He was the first person to ever take an interest in me. Just like you did.” 

“Why are ya’ telling me all this…?” It sounds like your in love with him. 

“Tabito, this is my hundredth story for you.” Ness answered, “You wanted to hear all one hundred stories, and this is the final one.” We were supposed to make more. 

“Right, Alexis. Go ahead and tell me then.” Karasu answered with a forced smile, but he hated every bit of this final story. It was different from the rest or was it. 

Were bits and pieces cut out, was Kaiser cut out of the previous stories? Were these stories all based around Kaiser? No. That wasn’t the case. Ness does love Karasu, but he’s always been the second person in this story. 

“I left Germany to get away from this person.” Ness answered honestly, he let his eyes fall shut, and his tone changed to a melancholy one. His body language was the same as it was a few months ago as well. When this first became a topic. 

Ness sighed, “I was so loyal to them, yet, despite my efforts they would never love me the way you did. It upset me greatly. I did partially want to get out of the country to explore but that was never the main reason.” Ness answered, letting himself be honest with Karasu about everything before his return to Germany. 

“I love you, Tabito.” 

Karasu erased the frown off his lips before replying, “I love you too, Alexis.” 

..

December 31st

It was late on this day, almost midnight. At midnight there would be a firework show that they had gathered as a group to observe. 

Sitting on the top of a grass hill, the blades of grass stabbed Karasu’s palms, yet he still placed his hands on top of them.

The starry sky was beautiful out here, the lack of light pollution was a reason for this. There were hundreds of thousands of stars in the sky, and Karasu couldn’t take his eyes off of the sight. 

Karasu yawned as he waited for midnight to come. It was only ten minutes from now or less.

Ness sat to his right. Shidou on his left, but he was too focused on Rin. Sitting next to Ness was Otoya and Yuki, they had warmed up to him over the last few months. Not that they hated him in the first place . 

Ness turned to Karasu and he whispered, “I’ll miss this.” 

Karasu shut his eyes and he nodded. He didn’t know what words to verbally say. Karasu felt the same way, a year from now he would be watching the firework show without Ness. 

Twelve hours from now he would be at the airport saying goodbye to Ness. That would be the last time they see each other for a long time.

However, eight hours from now there will be a change, a big event will occur, and one that might change the future for both of them. 

Karasu was brought out of thought by a bang. Then a beautiful purple hue filled the sky. The firework show had started. 

It was slow at first, occasional fireworks filled the sky with a range of colors. 

Then as the show went on it went faster and there were more fireworks in the sky. The sky was bright on this night, filled with plenty of different bright colors. Bang, then the sky would light up. Bang, bang, bang, and the sky would be filled with colors. 

Karasu turned to Ness and he did the same. For one last memory Karasu knew exactly what he wanted to do. 

Karasu cupped Ness’s cheek with one hand before pulling him into a familiar warm kiss. However, one felt so much more emotional than the last ones. 

It was a chaste kiss, short and sweet, but there was still a tear rolling down Karasu’s cheek as it came to an end. 

That was probably the last time he’d kiss Ness, and this was most likely the last happy memory they’d have together.

Behind them was a booming firework show, it was at its climax, and the sky was filled with bright colors, plenty of them. The sound of booms echoed, but Karasu couldn’t bring himself to focus on the show anymore. 

He knew on the walk home tonight there would be too many feelings coursing through his body.

Then the last firework went off, a blue one, for some odd reason Karasu remembered the color blue. 

Along with the final firework was an, “This was fun. I love you, Tabito.” 

Ness kissed his cheek softly, the action wiping away Karasu’s fears, and bringing a smile onto his face.

“I love ya’ too, Alexis.” 

..

January 1st

Sitting in Ness’s room hours before he would be taken to the airport that was where Karasu was. A large suitcase sat on the floor, and Ness stared out the window. 

The usual clear skies have been cloudy recently. It was raining, it was as if the sky was crying with him. 

It was a sad day, a day that was going to arrive eventually, but it was also a day that Karasu wished could be erased from his memories. No. That was a lie, he didn’t want any of his memories with Ness to be erased. Even the more solemn ones. 

Karasu had something he needed to do. Words he needs to say before they’d be trying to communicate over text in different timezones. A declaration that needed to be stated directly to Ness’s face. 

Now Karasu would do the hardest thing he’s ever done. 

The room was silent, the entire house was silent, but Karasu’s words would fill this quiet atmosphere. 

“Hey…ya’ know…I’ve been thinking, Alexis.” Karasu began, he grabbed the attention of the other, but he could never meet his eyes.

There was no way Karasu could look at him, especially right now, and right before he’s about to speak these words. Karasu would do anything to change this outcome, to have a different future. Karasu would give anything to have Ness by his side through the next term, and after graduation, was it bold to say that was all he wanted. 

Karasu doesn’t need a hundred I love you’s from Ness. All he needs is for Ness to stay by his side forever, even if he wasn’t physically there. Karasu thought this would be the case, but he knows once Ness goes back to Germany there will be large changes. 

“Yes, Tabito?” 

“I think we should take a break.” Karasu stated, everytime his eyes would meet Ness's, his own would dart away. His hands were shaking, and there was a clear tremble in his voice, “Break up.” Karasu clarified, “I think it’ll be too hard to maintain this relationship while yer’ in Germany, especially with university coming up.” 

Karasu knew that this day was coming, and that this break-up would be happening eventually. But it all happened too soon. 

“It’s okay.” Ness answered, stopping Karasu before he could keep rambling on, “I understand. It’s okay.” He repeated, but the frown on his lips, and the light taken from his eyes spoke louder than words. 

“I’m sorry.” 

“It’s okay, Tabito.”

“I didn’t want to have to do this. I promise ya’ that.” Karasu continued to apologize.

“I know.” Ness smiled, he smiled during this, “You would never lie to me.” Ness spoke with genuine happiness. Then his smile fell, he was unable to maintain it. His eyes were fallen, staring at the floor, but neither dared to look up at each other. 

“Ya’ know I still love you.” 

“I know. I do too, but I understand, Tabito. It’s better for both of us to do this.” Ness said, struggling to convey a normal voice. There was a rasp, then a quiver, and he couldn’t keep speaking.

Karasu knew his throat was pained, he knew that Ness was holding back tears. Karasu would be the same, but he needed to maintain composure for the both of them. 

“I always will.” 

Then they were at the airport. Ness would be leaving soon, and neither knew when they would see each other again. 

Ness hugged him goodbye, and it happened all so quickly. 

These last few months all passed rapidly, as if they were only a few minutes long. 

Karasu cupped his face and pulled him into one last passionate kiss. Ness wrapped his arms tightly around his neck as if he were trying to hold onto him forever.

Yet, time passed so fast, and Karasu knew Ness would be walking away soon.

“Goodbye, Tabito.” Ness spoke as he pulled away from the kiss, he slowly unlaced his arms from where they were wrapped around Karasu’s neck.

“Goodbye, Alexis.”

“I hope to see you again.”

“Me too.” But Karasu wanted to say more. There was too much he wanted to say. 

I love you. I need you. Karasu tried to speak those sentences, he knew reasoning with Ness wouldn’t change anything. Yet, Karasu still wished that he got to speak one last I love you before the future would unfold.

But the words never left his lips. 

..

January 7th

Ness spent four months out of Germany, in a foreign country, and those four months were nothing like what he expected. Ness left for Germany in September in hopes to forget Kaiser for good. I guess it was successful because while he was in Japan, and even now his mind was filled with Karasu. Tabito, Tabito, Tabito that was every thought on his mind.

A success, really, Ness hadn’t thought about Kaiser in months. While he was in Japan he was being shown genuine love and affection, and that was the furthest thing from what he expected. 

Now he was back in Germany, it felt more familiar to him, but there was a piece that was missing. 

Ness sat in a field under a tree, dark-grey storm clouds filled the sky, blocking out the light. Ness had left Germany to forget Kaiser, but now he’s left Japan and now he’s forced to forget Karasu. 

This place reminded Ness of their first date, the picnic they had in a field like this one, and this park just so happened to be the place that Ness said he would bring Karasu. 

“A park…similar to this one. I know which specific one too, one near my childhood home with a large field like this one.” Ness answered.

“Why a park? That one specifically too?”

Ness sighed, there was a change in his tone, his body language too as he began the story, “I won’t go into much detail, but I met someone there…as a kid…a very important person to me.” Ness answered, there was a hint of sadness in his words, but that quickly changed as he spoke again, “Important like you.” 

The park was almost completely secluded. The clouds above threatening rain were to blame for this.

If the skies were clear Ness would most likely find himself kicking a football further in the field. Just like he used to as a young child, or maybe not, touching a football would bring back too many memories.

..

.

..

Years ago on a bright sunny day Ness found himself at this same park. He was still young, ten. His infatuation with the sport had him playing every single day. Ness practiced and practiced, he wanted to become an amazing midfielder, a player that others envied. 

This day however was different. 

Just like with his first meeting with Karasu, the unexpected happened. A person just so happened to take interest in the lonely Ness. 

“Hey.”

A boy called, just by his features alone Ness could tell he was around his age. He was blonde, his hair was long-ish, falling on his shoulders, he was clearly growing it out, and his eyes were an icy blue. The boy waved and he smiled before he walked over to Ness. 

Ness tilted his head and he was a little lost—confused over this entire situation. 

A breeze blew his bangs out of his face, and he maintained a neutral expression. His lips fell in a line, and his eyes never changed, he stared at the blonde with this dull expression. 

Then they were only a few feet apart, “I’m Michael Kaiser.” The boy introduced himself. 

“Alexis Ness.” 

Ness let his eyes fall to the green grass below him. He waited—no he hoped that Kaiser would leave. Waiting desperately that he’d hear grass crunching below Kaiser’s feet as he stepped away. 

That didn’t happen though and instead Kaiser grinned, “Play with me.” Kaiser stated, he stepped closer to Ness, “I’ve been observing you from afar, and you are an amazing player.” 

Ness looked up, meeting the eyes of the blonde, he cringed his eyes, everytime Kaiser spoke he was more surprised than the last. 

“No…I shouldn’t.” Ness said before squatting down to pick up his football, but he never did end up doing that. 

Kaiser placed his foot on top of the ball, pressing down, halting Ness’s movements, “Why not? I want to observe your skills, future-star.” 

“Fine.” Ness reluctantly agreed, “Just for a little though.”

..

That was a lie. Playing with Kaiser was the most fun Ness had had in awhile. Now they were sitting on a bench in the park, each holding an icecream they had got from the corner store down the road.

Kaiser sat cheerfully next to Ness. Ness had never had someone be so curious about him, but it was as if Kaiser wanted to know everything about him. 

They had begun with football, Kaiser asking questions related to the sport that connected them, and Ness answering. 

The sun was setting, that was why they had stopped playing, they would be parting ways soon, but Ness didn’t want that. He was hesitant at first to communicate and play football with Kaiser, but now it was different. He envied Kaiser and his skills, and he wanted to learn football from him.

“You’re great! I would love to watch you play in a match sometimes, Ness.”

Then his cheerful mood was destroyed. It all came tumbling down like a stack of blocks. 

Ness sighed and he frowned, “Oh…I won’t be playing…I’m on the bench.” Ness replied, “I’m not good enough.”

Kaiser frowned as well, and he shook his head. Kaiser turned his head towards Ness before he offered. “Practice with me, never leave my side, and I’ll make you the best midfielder in the world.”

Ness almost laughed at the outrageous statement. Kaiser was really dreaming big. 

“What…? Why?” Ness asked, shocked, “I don’t think I can become the best.” 

Kaiser frowned, “Yes you can.” I wouldn’t say this if I didn't believe it. Kaiser sighed, “You caught my eyes, y'know.” 

“Huh?” 

Kaiser only smiled in response, his eyes shut as he let a radiant smile fall on his lips. A bright smile—blindingly bright. 

Ness sighed defeatedly, and he gave up, “I’ll stay by your side Kaiser.” Forever. When he said those words aloud suddenly it didn’t sound so bad.

Kaiser clapped his hands excitedly, he was satisfied with Ness’s obedience. Kaiser kept his striking blue eyes on him, and that wide smile never left his lips. 

Ness held out his pinky towards Kaiser, “I’ll devote my loyalty to you.” And for the first time that day, well that he can remember at least, Ness grinned. Ness beamed at the other, reciprocating his cheery smile. 

Then the air between them changed.

Ness let the smile on his lips fall back into a straight line. 

Kaiser never stopped smiling though, and with a small grin on his lips he murmured, “You should smile more often,” Kaiser said, “…you have a pretty one.”

Since that day Ness smiled every second, at every opportunity, and he kept a grin on his lips. 

No one had ever cared as much as Kaiser did.

No one ever showed such an interest in Ness before. 

..

Ness still remembers how Kaiser got his first tattoo. 

Kaiser had just turned eighteen, and he was desperate to have a beautiful design inked on his skin. 

So, he asked Ness. They had been friends for eight years now, and Kaiser observed the art skills of the other. Not only was Ness amazing at football, but he was also talented when it came to art. 

They sat on the couch of Kaiser’s empty house. It was just the two of them. Ness had a piece of paper, torn out of a sketchbook, and placed on top of a hardcover book. Kaiser asked Ness to sketch the first design that came to his mind. He didn’t ask for anything in particular just that Ness made it large, he wanted his arm covered in ink. 

Kaiser held a cup of tea in his hands, letting the warmth emitted from the cup warm his body. There was a soft, fluffy white blanket in his lap, but he was still so cold on this snowy day. 

Kaiser relaxed, listening to the sound of pencil writing, and tapped on the book from Ness’s fingertips. His eyes fell upon the paper, a beautiful design being brought to life as Ness moved his fingers. 

Roses, roses on a long vine, Kaiser had assumed they were red to match his eyeliner. Red eyeliner has been makeup he’s been doing for years, he likes standing out amongst a crowd, and the red compliments his features well. 

Then Ness grabbed colored pencils, making his sketch glow, and bringing life to the drawing he had formed in such little time. 

Blue roses… Ness had decided to color the roses blue. Strange. Kaiser was accustomed to the familiar red, but the blue was gorgeous, and if that is what Ness wants then Kaiser will keep it. 

Kaiser got the tattoo, it was sort of an imprint of Ness that was attached to his body. Whenever he’d look down at those beautiful roses Ness would come to mind. He was the one who designed them after all. 

..

January 12th

Then Ness went to Japan. It was out of nowhere, he mumbled a goodbye to Kaiser before leaving for the airport. He didn’t answer any texts, and kept Kaiser in the dark about how long he would be gone.

So when Ness returned he had assumed that Kaiser would be upset, angry, distraught over his outlandish choices. 

On this day he saw Kaiser for the first time in months. He had left on such a sour note, and he was nervous, his body shook, the smile he swore to keep on his lips quivered, and he wished to get it over with. 

3 new messages from Tabito

1 new message from Kaiser

Ness had texted Kaiser, informing the blonde that he had arrived. Ness stood outside of the home, it was gigantic, a mansion, but an extremely familiar place to Ness.

The front door opened, and out stepped Kaiser. It was clear he had woken up not too long ago, his hair was tied up, the t-shirt he hastily put on was inside out, and he was wearing sweatpants. 

5 new messages from Tabito 

Then footsteps swiftly hit the ground below as Kaiser rushed towards him. It was unexpected, and out of nowhere to be honest. 

One second Kaiser was standing at his front door, wide eyed, and the next he was pulling Ness into a suffocating hug. His hand fell to Ness’s hair holding it tightly, and the other hand around his hair held him just as close and just as tightly. 

“I’ve missed you so much, Alexis,” Kaiser murmured, the sound of his first name on Kaiser’s lift gave Ness the chills. He stared at Kaiser dumbfounded, this entire interaction was nothing like he had expected, “…why did you not come see me? You’ve been back for a few days, correct?”

“Yes…sorry.” Ness apologized quickly, the two pulled away from the hug.

Then Kaiser frowned as he met Ness’s gaze, “Did something happen in Japan?” 

“No.” Yes, “ The trip was fun.” More than fun. 

“That’s nice to hear. Why don’t you come inside, I’ll make tea, and we can talk about your trip.” 

6 new messages from Tabito

Ness glanced down at his pocket, his phone vibrating with each new message. 

Ness nodded hesitantly, then he put up his finger, “Give me a second.” He spoke quickly, hastily pulling his phone out of his pocket.

Then Ness smiled to mask his nervousness, “Go inside without me I’ll only be a second.” 

“Okay…” Kaiser nodded slowly, he turned around and walked back towards the front door, leaving Ness in the driveway.

Ness clicked on Karasu’s contact, calling him, not caring to read the messages first. This was the first time they’ve called since Ness got back to Germany. 

“Hi.” Ness greeted him as he picked up the phone, “Sorry, I’ve been a little busy.” 

“Hey, it’s fine, I’ve just missed ya.’ Is now not a good time?” 

“No! No! It is! I’ve missed you too. It’s just with returning to Germany, and all the stuff related to that I haven’t had a lot of time to myself.” Ness spoke truthfully with an awkward laugh. 

“I understand.” Karasu replied, Ness could see his face speaking those words in his mind right now, “How is everything going?”

“Good so far. I do miss Japan though.” 

“Mhm…ya’ will be back eventually.” Karasu sighed happily, “It’s nice to hear yer’ voice.” 

Ness smiled, “Mhm.” he agreed. 

“So I was—“

“Alexis!” Kaiser’s voice called from the doorstep.

“What was that…?” Who was that? Karasu asked in response to the yell of his first name. 

“I have to go—sorry!” Ness turned his attention back towards Karasu saying a quick goodbye.

“B—“ 

Then he clicked the hangup button, and he began walking towards the front door where Kaiser waited.

“The tea is done.” Kaiser explained, he smiled fondly at Ness, and he began walking into the house with Ness following closely behind him. 

“Thank you, Kaiser.” 

..

February 14th

“How has the third term been so far?” Ness asked, talking into his phone. 

His room was dimly lit by yellow lighting from a lamp. The blinds were closed, not allowing any natural light access. 

“Meh.” Karasu responded, “I miss yer’ stories.” 

Ness chuckled, “Sorry. I’ll tell you about any new ones if I make them.” 

“Todays been the worst!” Karasu groaned, Ness could hear his head hit a pillow through the phone. 

“What happened, Tabito?” Ness asked, he took a seat on his own bed, jeans rubbing uncomfortably against the soft fabric of the blankets. 

“Stupid Shidou. I spent all yesterday running around the mall with him to get a present for Rin. Which I didn’t mind.” Karasu began his explanation with a loud sigh, “But he—they are so lovey dovey together it’s sickening.” 

Ness softly laughed, “Their relationship is going well, that’s good.” 

“Unfortunately.” 

Karasu let himself laugh as well before asking, “Do ya’ miss anything…from Japan?” 

“Hm…I miss a lot, but it’s definitely strange to not wake up and have you hanging halfway off my bed.” Ness answered.

“That happened like twice.” Karasu grumbled. 

Ness chuckled, “Still happened.” he said cheekily a wide smile forming on his lips. 

Then the mood changed, “I’ll have to go now.” Ness said somberly, “I miss you and goodbye.” 

“Bye, Alexis.” 

Despite being officially broken up neither could just lose those feelings they had for each other. 

You don’t just fall in love, and magically lose those intense feelings overnight. 

Ness knows that better than anyone. 

Ness had on a dress-shirt, and black jeans, he was dressed up so formally on this Valentine’s Day evening. There was a reason for this.

“Let me take you out somewhere formal. For Valentine’s day.” Kaiser offered with a genuine smile. 

Ever since Ness has returned from Japan Kaiser has been a lot sweeter. There was a change once they spent so much time apart. Something that hadn’t happened since they met eight years earlier. 

Since he and Karasu weren’t officially in a relationship, and Kaiser never blatantly stated this was a date, Ness agreed. Additionally, Ness and Kaiser have gone out for dinner plenty of times over their long friendship. So why would this be any different? 

Ness walked outside, he waited patiently for Kaiser’s car to pull up. He didn’t know what restaurant they were going to, but Kaiser mentioned that it was expensive and fancy. Ness had his pocket in his wallet, and he prayed that he’d have enough money to pay for his meal.

An expensive black luxury car pulled up on the curb, and Kaiser rolled down the window to call Ness’s name. He wouldn’t have to though because Ness would recognize that car anywhere.

Ness opened the passenger car door, and he took a seat down on the leather seats. Ness put on his seatbelt, and then he let his hands which were balled up in fists rest awkwardly on his knees. 

Ness turned his hand towards Kaiser who was dressed just as formally as him. A white suit, expensive, it had to be, Ness was afraid to even touch it, and black dress pants, along with matching dress shoes. 

Ness beamed, “Where are we going Kaiser?” he asked as Kaiser began to drive.

“Just a restaurant. You’ll see when we get there.” Kaiser responded vaguely.

Kaiser had his arm resting on the center console, and he used his hand to turn up the radio slightly. The music wasn’t too loud, but it filled the silence between the two. 

Ness rolled down his window, and he rested his head on the palm of his hand. His eyes fell to the outside, watching the scenes that would pass as they drove quickly. The breeze hit his face, pushing his bangs back, but cooling off his warm body temperature. 

They arrived at a nice restaurant, Ness didn’t catch the name before they were seated inside. Kaiser already had reservations so there wasn’t a wait. 

Ness held the menu with both hands eyes scanning over the options, and then their outrageous prices. 

Kaiser must’ve taken notice to his reactions, from the wide eyes, to the shake of his head as he reread it over and over in disbelief. 

Kaiser chuckled, “Alexis, I’ll pay, get whatever you want.” Let me spoil you. 

“Kaiser you shouldn’t—“

“Let me.” Kaiser stated firmly, “Just this once?” 

Ness gave in, it wasn’t like he could say no to Kaiser, and he nodded his head. He went back to browsing the menu without his wallet crying. 

Both ordered their food, conversed while waiting for their meals, and drank their drinks. 

The sound of a violin echoed throughout the establishment. The music was calming to Ness, and he listened to the melody, allowing it to flow freely into his ears.

Ness sighed peacefully, resting his eyes, and he let a content smile form on his lips. 

Their food arrived and they continued to converse over dinner. Having an enjoyable conversation as well as a meal. 

This dinner took away all of Ness’s worries, and somber memories of the last few months…more specifically leaving Japan over a month ago. 

Well, it was all going smoothly, the entire night in fact until Kaiser dropped a certain question on him. 

“Alexis.” Kaiser called his name, grabbing his full attention. 

Ness still wasn’t used to Kaiser using his first name. He didn’t mind it, but it only began once he returned from Japan. Ness didn’t ask him about it, but he was about to receive his answer in a few seconds. 

Ness tilted his head and he beamed at Kaiser, “Yes?” 

“There was someone else in Japan wasn’t there?” Kaiser asked, calmly, his eyes fixed on Ness. Kaiser observed his body language, any movement, and his entire reaction to the question. 

Ness could’ve lied about it, but there wasn’t any point. It wasn’t like he was seeing Kaiser, or anyone else back in Germany for that matter. Additionally, Kaiser observed his initial reaction, and he knew he would be called out for his lie. If he were innocent his eyes would widen, he wouldn’t tremble, he wouldn’t lose what words he was going to speak, and he was sure his heart wouldn’t be pounding. 

Ness’s hand shook, the utensil he was holding almost falling with the motion. He hadn’t expected Kaiser to catch on so soon. 

Ness took a deep breath, and then he set down his fork on his plate. 

“How’d you know?” Ness asked, he was going to be completely honest towards Kaiser, he had devoted his loyalty after all. Anything he wanted to know he would find out.

Kaiser maintained eye contact with Ness as he answered, “The constant phone calls, and that Tabi—to? keeps texting you. I assumed something must have gone on while you were away.” 

“Oh…well, I was in a relationship with Tabito.” 

“What changed…no…first how did it happen?” Kaiser asked, continuing to bombard Ness with questions and information. 

Ness gulped, he hadn’t expected Kaiser to want to know so much about his love life. Not to mention that burning stare he had on Ness. All of it was so intimidating. 

His throat felt dry, and Ness took a sip of his water. 

“I actually didn’t like Tabito much at first if I’m being honest. He was pestering me in class, and eventually I just gave in and began speaking to him.” Ness recollected with soft laughter, his eyes weren’t on Kaiser anymore, he had his pointer finger pressed to his cheek, and his eyes aimed off towards nothing at all.

Kaiser raised an eyebrow and he nodded. Ness was sure he knew why he reacted like this. 

“Play with me.” Kaiser stated, he stepped closer to Ness, “I’ve been observing you from afar, and you are an amazing player.” 

“No…I shouldn’t.” Ness said before squatting down to pick up his football, but he never did end up doing that. 

Kaiser placed his foot on top of the ball, pressing down, halting Ness’s movements, “Why not? I want to observe your skills, future-star.” 

“Fine.” Ness reluctantly agreed, “Just for a little though.”

Kaiser had pestered him just as Karasu did. Their parallels were so similar, but their treatment towards Ness once was so different. 

“Tabito wanted to hear a ton of stories from me…not a ton…a hundred specifically.” Ness continued to explain, “He said I had a pretty voice, he said it was a sound he never wanted to stop hearing, and I was flattered if I was being honest.” 

Ness grabbed his glass once more, his hands had stopped shaking, and as he spoke he found himself calming down and becoming more comfortable. 

Ness took a sip and then he continued to finish his story once more, “I didn’t catch feelings at first, but after Halloween, spending that night conversing and teasing him. Along with all those days I told him stories I found myself falling in love with him.” 

“Why though?” Kaiser interrogated, “You knew you would be returning to Germany eventually. So, why would you fall in love with someone you might never see again?” 

“I was trying to forget somebody!” Ness let the words slip from his lips, regretting filling his veins just as quickly after. 

Ness took a deep breath, “I loved him.” Ness said honestly, “Of course I did, but I shouldn’t have dated him. I went to Japan to ignore my problems, and he solved them.” Despite creating more.

Kaiser only nodded. Ness had expected him to pry for more information. Especially about wanting to forget someone instead he went back to eating, and he even eventually changed the conversation. 

..

April 3rd

Ness found it strange how sweet Kaiser was recently. Kaiser was always nice, but there was a difference with his sweetness. 

To be honest Ness had almost mistaken him for Karasu a few times. From the out of nowhere constant compliments to the gifts, and then the planned outings.

It all began when he returned from Japan along with the beginning of the use of his first name.  

The person who Ness went to Japan to forget was now a different person. Okay, maybe that was too far. He was still Kaiser, but he was a Kaiser who was never taking his eyes off of Ness. Ness left to try and lose this feelings, they were eating away at him, and he could only feel depressing emotions when he felt as if his love would never be reciprocated. 

Ness hadn’t had much free time to talk to Karasu recently, he knew the other must’ve graduated already, and he wanted to call and say congratulations. But when he arrived home from a long day he would collapse on his bed, and when he awoke Karasu would still be asleep.

They broke up for this reason exactly. Long distance was too hard to maintain, and even trying to maintain this friendship was hard. Ness didn’t want to lose Karasu but their contact was becoming less and less. 

Ness would respond to the text messages Karasu sent the prior night when he awoke in the morning, only to get a response hours later. Most of the time Ness couldn’t even respond because he would be out with Kaiser, or at football practice with Kaiser. 

Kaiser was just as involved in his life as he was when Ness left and possibly even more now. 

Ness was furthering his skills, and even his strained relationship was Kaiser and it made him feel a lot better. This new treatment from Kaiser added a lot to these jubilant feelings. 

Ness could only hope Karasu was doing as good as he was. 

..

May 19th

“It’s already so hot!” Shidou groaned, he fanned himself off with his hand as they walked down the street.

The sun was beaming, casting a blazing heat down below. Summer was about to begin, but Karasu would spend it working. Today he had the day off, but tomorrow he would be working your typical part-time job to make some extra cash.

Karasu and Shidou were walking around town. Eventually they’d go get Rin, and the three of them would go get food. But for now it was just the two of them.

Karasu held his hand out above his eyes, shielding them from the blinding sun. 

Karasu nodded and the two turned towards a park. A very familiar one, it was the exact park Karasu took Ness to on their first date. 

The two walked through the gates, and towards a bench, a bench in the shade to allow them to cool off and get a break from this long walk. The park was decently crowded, civilians walking their dogs, or playing on the playground. Others were like Karasu and Shidou, and they were only walking around basking in the sunlight. 

Shidou rested his arms on the back of the bench, sighing in relief as he got a break. Karasu set his water bottle down on the bench in between them after taking a long refreshing drink. 

Shidou turned his head towards Karasu, “This is nice isn't it?” he asked with one of his wide “ Shidou” smirks, ones that would be seen commonly on his face.

“It is…” Karasu agreed, his voice was low, and his eyes were staring blankly at nothing at all. His eyes gazed off at the scenery in front of him, but his vision was just a blur.  

“When I said I loved ya’ I meant it.” Karasu murmured, he caressed Ness’s cheek with his hand before brushing a strand of his hair behind his cheek, “I’ll mean it everytime I say it…” 

“And if I say I love you too…then what does that mean for us?” Ness asked, leaning into the touch, melting against Karasu’s hand, his eyes shutting gently.

Us.

“Ya’ say that and I’m yours forever.” Karasu answered boldy, “We’d make a million stories together.”

“A million?” Ness asked, amused, I’m not sure I’m ready for that level of commitment.

Ness opened his eyes, “I love you too,” he wanted to say his name, but when he opened his mouth no words would leave. 

“Us…” Karasu mumbled aloud, drawing out the word.

“What?” Shidou asked, cringing his eyes, and raising an eyebrow at his friend, “Are you okay, Karasu?”

Karasu blinked multiple times and he regained his clear vision, “Yeah. Sorry.” he apologized quickly as he brought himself back to reality, “Just remembered something…” 

“Ah shit…” Shidou grumbled, “… first date was here wasn’t it. I forget that’s my bad. We can go if you want, I'm sorry.” Shidou scrambled to apologize to the other.

“Nah. It’s fine. Don’t worry, seriously.” 

Shidou nodded and his eyes fell back onto his lap, he pursed his lips, and then asked “How’re you doing?” while keeping his eyes staring down towards the ground. 

“Fine, we haven’t talked in a while.” 

“I’m sorry.” 

“Don’t apologize.” Karasu almost laughed as he spoke, and he shot Shidou a genuine smile, “Ya’ told me I shouldn’t have dated him and ya’ were right.” 

“Oh come on, both of us don’t believe that.”

“What?” Karasu asked, staring at Shidou dumbfoundedly. 

“You made good memories dating him, and there’s always a possibility that you two get back together.” Shidou reassured with one of his own heartfelt smiles, and then he met Karasu’s eyes before smiling wider. 

Shidou then stood up and he stretched his arms, “Let’s go get Rin.” 

“Now I’m going to be a third wheel.” Karasu commented whilst rolling his eyes. Karasu sighed and he let a gentle grin spread on his lips as he followed Shidou down the sidewalk.

Being around those two along with the other two idiots he knew was enough to take this off of his mind even if it was for a short while. 

However , as Karasu walked there was a tight feeling in his throat, and a bad feeling spreading throughout his body. As if he knew something terrible was about to happen. 

..

Saturday May 25th

Little did Karasu know his gut feeling was right. 

Karasu had a reason to be worried, a reason to feel that something bad was bound to happen soon, and this would all unfold on this Saturday in May.

..

Ness found himself spending more time at Kaiser’s house recently. Before he left for Japan they had started seeing each other less and less. There was a reason for that, and it added on to the reasons on why Ness left in the first place.

First, Ness wanted to forget his feelings for Kaiser, and being around him as much as he was it wouldn’t happen. 

Second, Kaiser had begun taking interest in a new striker that had come to Germany for a few months. It got to a point where Kaiser had taken more interest in him than he ever had Ness. Those intense feelings of jealousy built up into the need to leave—to get away for a short while.

Once Ness returned that forward was gone, and Kaiser continued and even increased the amount of attention he’d give Ness. He began using his first name, taking Ness out, and spending as much time as possible with him. Before, after, and during practice, whenever they had free time Kaiser would make an effort to talk to Ness even if they could only exchange a few words. 

On this night there was a full moon, and Kaiser wanted to see the night sky from atop his roof. That’s why the two of them are climbing onto his roof from Kaiser’s second story window. It definitely wasn’t safe, and Ness was sure he would fall any second. One wrong step, and you’d be falling to the ground. 

However, they lived, the two of them sitting on the top of the roof. Ness had his knees close to his chest, and he was hesitant to make any movements as he adjusted to the surface. Ness rested his hands on the roof, each hand falling to his sides, arms glued to his sides. 

Kaiser was much more laid back, but Ness could only hope there would be no bugs, knowing Kaiser he’d probably flinch and tumble down the tiles.

Kaiser was a genius though, the view up here was beautiful. The glowing moon and stars that covered the night sky was a sight that would never leave his mind. Has Ness ever seen this many stars before? They were cluttered close, and others scattered out further away from each other. Some of the stars were bigger—closer, and others small—further away. 

The blue hue that projected onto Kaiser’s face from the moonlight was the most beautiful sight of them all. 

When Ness tilted his head to the left the view left him breathless, he was in awe, the way the blue complimented his delicate features was all too much. Ness needed this image painted, inscripted into his mind Kaiser had always been attractive, but somehow he managed to become more handsome. 

Ness held his finger out towards the sky, but he never spoke, his mouth agape, and his eyes trasnfixed on Kaiser.

“Do you want a picture, Alexis?” Kaiser asked with a smirk, clearly a teasing joke, his playful expression along with the tone of voice spoke for itself. Kaiser himself turned his head to face Ness as well, the two locking eyes in that moment. 

Ness wasn’t taken aback by the question, he had been staring for so long it was no wonder Kaiser felt that burning gaze on him. 

Ness was still embarrassed however, and he was quick to break eye contact. He never verbally answered the question, but the answer would have been yes. 

Kaiser let out a chuckle , “The sky is beautiful tonight… isn’t it Alexis.” 

“It is…” Ness answered in awe, his eyes were taken off of Kaiser, and aimed up towards the starry night sky, another beauty he got to lay his eyes upon.

Kaiser smiled, a gentle tender smile, an adoring smile that was for Ness. His Alexis. Kaiser rested his arms behind his back, the palms of his hands digging into the tiles of the roof. 

“I wouldn’t want to gaze upon the stars with anyone else.” Kaiser spoke truthfully, his voice was low but not yet a whisper, but he was quiet enough to ensure that Ness was the only person who got to hear the statement. 

Ness kept his eyes gazing upon the stars above, the night sky was so beautiful. A sight that grabbed your attention and pulled you in. Similar to what Kaiser had done before. 

There was a gentle breeze on this night, shaking the leaves of the green trees, the leaves were a dark evergreen shade at this time of night. 

The sound of the wind mixed along with the occasional howls of animals, and the occasional car passing by was a soothing mix.

“Alexis…” Kaiser called. Ness only nodded as a response, he kept his eyes off of Kaiser, and up towards the sky. 

Ness could feel Kaiser’s gaze on him, and despite the growing urge to give in and look over he did not. Headlights lit up the street below for a second, casting a yellow hue on the people sitting atop a roof. Then it was dark again as the car drove out of sight.

Friction between the wheels and the rocky road below caused another sound to the almost dead night. 

Only for a moment though because another sound would be filling the air in a moment. 

Kaiser grabbed Ness’s chin with his thumb and pointer finger, he pulled the other’s face towards him, leaving a small distance between them. They were only inches apart. Their breaths mixed in the close proximity. 

“Alexis, focus on me.” 

Ness’s breath hitched, his eyes wider than they usually were, his eyes fell upon Kaiser’s own icy blue ones. 

However, Kaiser’s eyes didn’t meet Ness’s, instead they were aimed down at his lips. Both of their heartbeats increased, this situation they found themself in shouldn’t have been happening.

In the back of Ness’s mind all he could hear was Tabito, Karasu, Karasu, what about Karasu?

Kaiser’s thumb swiped over Ness’s bottom lip, then his eyes glanced up towards Ness’s own. That love filled stare only screamed desire, and suddenly all of Ness’s self control was out the window. 

Kaiser’s eyes spoke the question for themself, and the nod Ness gave was enough for him. 

Kaiser tilted Ness’s head using his fingers that he had on his chin. Then he moved his own face closed, meeting their lips for a short kiss. It was quick and gentle. They pulled away, opening their eyes for a second more, but after that one kiss only one wouldn’t do. 

Ness made the first move this time, and he pushed his lips against Kaiser’s own again. Ness threw his arm over Kaiser’s neck bringing him closer, deepening the kiss, and he kept one hand on the roof to give him stability. 

Still, despite how perfect this moment felt, Ness still had worries, but as the kiss went on and Ness melted into Kaiser’s touch those worries went away. Karasu wasn’t repeating in the back of his mind Ness could only think Micha, Micha, Micha. 

Kaiser pulled away slowly bringing the kiss to an end. His hand moved to cup Ness’s cheek. The smile he had on his lips was doting, and his eyes were filled with adoration. 

Ness practically had hearts in his eyes, never had he thought he’d kiss Kaiser. Did that mean those feelings he once hated were now requited? 

Ness’s arms dropped off of Kaiser’s to his side, lying around idly without purpose. His lips still tingled, the kiss felt surreal, and the emotions flowing through him didn’t feel real. This was all euphoric, his childhood friend, first love, and the person he had tried so hard to forget had just kissed him. 

Ness slowly raised his arms, and he threw his arms around Kaiser’s waist before he rested his head on his shoulder. Kaiser was quick to reciprocate the hug, one arm falling around his neck, and he placed a hand in his hair.

“Why…?” Ness asked in disbelief, his mind hadn’t caught up yet, he hadn't even processed the kiss, Ness’s lips trembling, his voice quivering, “Why would you kiss me?” 

I was sure you were in love with someone else. 

Kaiser laughed, “What are you so worried about, Alexis?” 

Ness shut his eyes, and he buried his head into Kaiser’s shoulder. Ness held Kaiser tighter, making sure he wouldn’t leave this embrace. The warmth was addicting, Kaiser’s kisses were addicting, and all of it felt like one long dream. 

Ness sighed defeatedly, and he gave up, “I’ll stay by your side Kaiser.” Forever. 

“You said you would stay by my side forever.” You know what that means, correct? 

Ness pulled his head off of his shoulder, and he met Kaiser’s eyes again, the two face to face.

“I did Kaiser.” Ness smiled nodding as he did so, “I devoted my entire loyalty to you.” 

“When you left, when you were gone for so long I realized that I missed you by my side.” Kaiser answered honestly, “Then I found out that you were devoting your loyalty to another person. I don’t want that, Alexis, keep your eyes on me.” 

“I will, Kaiser.” I’ll try.

“You should start calling me Michael, Alexis.” Kaiser spoke softly as he pulled Ness back into a warm embrace. 

Suddenly the night sky was Ness’s favorite sight. 

..

July 10th

The sun wasn’t shining on this summer day. 

Dark rain clouds covered the sky above, rain threatening to pour down onto Karasu. When Ness was around the skies were always clear, the sun was shining, but not as bright as Ness was. 

A strong wind brought a cool breeze, shaking the tree that Karasu sat under. He was shivering from the wind, he was sitting on the sweatshirt he brought. Grass blades stabbing the palms of his hands through the fabric. 

This scenery was far too familiar to Karasu. The memories he associated—the memories that took place at this very location pained his heart. 

As he sat under this large green tree there was only one face he saw in his mind, Alexis. From his bright— no dark pink hair to those matching eyes. Karasu still remembers what he was wearing, the way he looked on that day. 

Ya’ say that and I’m yours forever.” Karasu answered boldy, “We’d make a million stories together.”

“A million?” Ness asked, amused, I’m not sure I’m ready for that level of commitment.

Ness opened his eyes, “I love you too,” he wanted to say his name, but when he opened his mouth no words would leave.  

Karasu smiled endearingly and he placed his forehead against Ness’s own. He shut his eyes, and rested there for a moment. Then he opened his eyes and he moved, his lips pressed a gentle kiss to Ness’s cheek. 

If Karasu had had the opportunity he would have stared into his eyes for-forever. 

Right now Karasu didn’t need to remember Ness, but he wanted to, he missed him so much. They hadn’t called in over a month. The texts became less and less at this point Karasu had stopped trying. When he wasn’t texting Ness first they weren’t speaking.

It was obvious his feelings for Karasu were decaying. 

But Karasu would sit here and ignore that fact…for a little while at least. 

When Ness left and the third term started things were different. One person walking out of Karasu’s life changed his everyday life. It was different to see the seat in front of him empty, the dates they went on every Saturday stopped, and he wasn’t sneaking himself into Ness’s room anymore. 

A part of Karasu wants to believe that everything between him and Ness would be okay, but that was just a fabrication created in his mind. At least in head they were okay. 

When he looked at Ness his heart would skip a beat, but his heart has been too dull for a while. 

Karasu missed him. He didn’t want to, but all he could think of right now was Ness. 

When Karasu was sitting under this tree, in this specific park, he couldn’t forget about Ness, and everything they had together. Even if it was for such a short period of time. 

..

August 15th

Karasu turned nineteen on this day. It was his birthday, and for the first time in months he had finally received a call from Ness. 

He was sure Ness had completely forgotten about him by now. Something that Karasu couldn’t do. But it turned out he hadn’t. 

It seemed that he only called on important occasions now. 

“Hello?” Karasu asked rather than greeting Ness properly as he picked up the phone. 

Karasu’s hair was a mess, not yet washed, nor did it have any gel in it. He had woken up, but he was making breakfast rather than getting ready for the day. 

It was only early in the afternoon, he still had time before he went out to party with his friends later in the evening. 

“Hi,” Ness greeted him, “…Ta—Karasu...” 

It was odd, even shattering to hear his last name slip so casually from Ness’s lips. Although Karasu had expected it to eventually happen, hearing Ness say Karasu instead of Tabito only further confirmed his suspicions. 

“ Happy birthday! How does it feel to be nineteen?” 

Karasu sighed, “Same as always.” he said with his typical smirk-like smile on his lips, although that was quick to turn into a frown. 

Despite yearning for a call from Ness, actually talking to him only reawakened those suffocating feelings. 

“That’s nice to hear!” Ness stated happily, Karasu could hear his smile in his words, and Karasu only nodded despite knowing that Ness couldn’t see him. 

“How’s Germany?” 

“Great! Everythings been going really well lately. I even—“ Then he stopped his sentence, and he didn’t elaborate further on what he was going to say. 

Karasu so desperately wanted to know, but he didn’t have the energy to try and pry it out of Ness. Instead he’d add it to the list of suspicions he had building up in his mind. 

“Well…happy birthday again. I have to go now.” Ness stated, “Goodbye Karasu.” 

“Bye…” Alexis. As much as he wanted to say it, it felt so wrong to say his name now. 

It was as if they were going from lovers to strangers.

..

Although Karasu had to admit he had a great birthday. He spent it alongside Yuki, Otoya, Shidou, and Rin, the five of them going downtown to any location and shop. 

It was a long night, but a fun one too. His feet were killing him when he got home. Shidou, one his long term bestfriends was going to spend a little more time with Karasu before returning home himself. 

The two of them were sitting on the floor of Karasu’s bedroom recounting events from earlier, or any topic that came to mind. It felt so similar to those afternoons when they arrived home from school together. 

Karasu had an old basketball on his floor, along with a football, and the two had made a childish game of passing both to each other at the same time. It led to dropping them, and almost breaking objects in the room multiple times. It was fun though. 

Karasu found himself staring at the wall, his mind was more focused on too many other topics. It was running wild on its own, and he could only stare at something random as he lost focus. 

Then he was hit in the face with a basketball. Shidou cackled before apologizing, “Sorry! You good?”

“Yeah.” Karasu answered before picking the basketball back up and tossing it at Shidou. 

“Pfft, yeah right. You got that distant look in your eyes again.” Shidou commented. 

“What’re ya’ on about?” 

“You’ve been staring at the wall, and you’re not focused at all.” Shidou elaborated, he let out another chuckle, “You may be so smart with your analyses and stuff, but I too notice when stuff is off about you.” 

“I'm good, man, don’t worry.” Karasu replied, he never did like making anyone worry about him. 

“Bullshit. What happened?” 

Karasu kept his mouth shut and he continued their game of passing the balls back and forth.

Shidou sighed, but he wasn’t going to give up that easily, “Ness?” he asked despite knowing that was definitely the answer. 

Karasu continued to ignore him, but he maintained contact with the others the entire time. His navy-blue eyes staring straight into those flashy fuchsia ones. 

Shidou sighed and he continued to ask questions, in an attempt to pry information out of the other, “You never told me who broke up with who?” 

“I think we should take a break.” Karasu stated, everytime his eyes would meet Ness's, his own would dart away. His hands were shaking, and there was a clear tremble in his voice, “Break up.” Karasu clarified, “I think it’ll be too hard to maintain this relationship while yer’ in Germany, especially with university coming up.” 

“I broke up with Ness because long distance was never going to work.” Karasu replied, finally giving a response to one of Shidou’s many questions.

Shidou only nodded, he pursed his lips, and he didn’t give a verbal answer. 

Shidou stopped passing the ball and he sat it down by his side. He shrugged his shoulders, and let out another long sigh, “You don’t have to answer, but I have a question.” 

“What?”

“Do you think Ness is seeing someone else?” Shidou asked. 

“I don’t “think” I know he is.” Karasu answered truthfully, “I know we're broken up and everything, but I thought we could patch things up when he came back.”

“When is he coming back?”

“No clue.”

“I think you need to give up for good.” Shidou advised firmly, “I know you loved him, but this relationship is never going to work. I’m not trying to be harsh, Karasu, but I don’t want to see you destroy yourself over this.” 

“Yer’ right it’s fine.” 

Shidou then asked another Ness related question, “Do you know who it could be?” 

Karasu sighed and he let his eyes fall to the carpeted floor below him, “Yeah.” he answered, “I have an idea at least. There’s this blonde guy he has blue streaks too, Ness has been posting him a ton recently. They had old pictures so I just assumed they were childhood friends, but now I’m sure it’s become more.” 

“I’m sorry.”

“Don’t apologize, ya’ keep doin’ that. Don’t worry about me.” Karasu reassured, “Ness called me today for the first time in months, and those calls just seem so forced. I think that once I left the picture he entered.” 

It took time but Karasu has somewhat come to terms with the new situation. 

..

November 3rd

Karasu sat under a tree, a tree he sat under a year ago today. 

Under that tree sat another man next to him, well that was the case a year ago at least. That boy told him a hundred stories, each story he told made Karasu fall deeper and deeper in love with him.

He was like no one Karasu had ever seen before, but now he didn’t remember much.

His hair was a shade of pink, dark? light? both? his eyes, the color specifically, he had no idea. When he envisioned Ness his eyes were a dark grey, but he was sure they weren’t that colors. 

Karasu wondered if Ness had forgotten the colors of his eyes by now. 

Yet, one story stuck with Karasu. All of them did but one came to mind more than the others, and this story was the hundreth one Ness had told him. 

“His name is Michael. Michael Kaiser.” Ness began, the tone of voice he used was sickening. There was clear fondness, a large care, and a love that Karasu would try to deny, “He was the first person to ever take an interest in me. Just like you did.” 

“Why are ya’ telling me all this…?” It sounds like your in love with him. 

“Tabito, this is my hundredth story for you.” Ness answered, “You wanted to hear all one hundred stories, and this is the final one.” We were supposed to make more. 

“Right, Alexis. Go ahead and tell me then.” Karasu answered with a forced smile, but he hated every bit of this final story. It was different from the rest or was it. 

“I left Germany to get away from this person.” Ness answered honestly, he let his eyes fall shut, and his tone changed to a melancholy one. His body language was the same as it was a few months ago as well. When this first became a topic. 

Ness sighed, “I was so loyal to them, yet, despite my efforts they would never love me the way you did. It upset me greatly. I did partially want to get out of the country to explore but that was never the main reason.” Ness answered, letting himself be honest with Karasu about everything before his return to Germany. 

“I love you, Tabito.” 

Karasu wondered if that Michael Kaiser guy was the one that seemed to be so happy with Ness. 

Oh how he’d love to take his place. 

Karasu sighed and he stood up, he had things to do, and they were not sitting under a tree reminiscing over the best man he had ever met.

But he wouldn’t stay true to his word, and no matter how hard he tried he couldn’t stop himself from pulling his phone out of his pocket. He scrolled through his contact, hastily clicking on the one that read Alexis, and he called the number. 

Karasu so desperately needed to hear that sweet voice once again. The one that spoke all those stories he fell in love with. 

The phone rang…and it rang…the ringing continued for longer than Karasu wanted. Karasu sighed, his heart pounding, he continued to wait, a ringing continuing to play over and over again in his ears. 

Just when he had assumed Ness wasn’t going to pick up a voice came through the other end.

“Hello.” 

“Hey, I’ve missed ya.’” Karasu responded calmly despite scrambling to find a simple response.

Recently whenever they spoke it felt like Karasu was speaking through a stranger. A person who didn’t tell him a hundred stories, and a person who he had never loved. 

Ness didn’t respond and a silence grew louder along with Karasu’s nervousness. Tension fused between the two, and it was suffocating despite them being thousands of miles apart. 

“Karasu.”

The mention of his name and nothing else only formed a bad feeling in his gut. Karasu was waiting nervously for the impending bad news.

Karasu wasn’t an idiot, he was a genius, and he knew that there was an evident change. He knew not to expect much from such a bland response. 

Karasu let out a shaky breath and he murmured, “Yes?” 

The silence remained and with each moment Karasu’s heart beated faster. He was sure Ness could hear the noise his heart was pounding loud like a drum. 

Karasu stared up at the grey sky. Karasu had noticed a long time ago that the sun didn’t shine when Ness wasn’t around. 

“Karasu.” Ness repeated his first name in almost a mumbled, he swallowed, and then he took a deep breath. 

Karasu waited impatiently for the response that had taken what felt like decades to receive. Then Ness spoke again, in a shaky voice he declared, “I think we should stop talking.” 

Karasu let his heart shatter in silence while he waited for Ness to either say something else or hang up the phone for the last time ever.

“If we ever see each other again…we’d have to go out for tea together…” Ness paused for a moment before he finished the statement, “…as friends.” 

Karasu bit his lip, he swallowed his feelings, and then his heartbeat began to slow back down to a normal pace. 

“I understand.” 

Enough was spoken in that one sentence. 

Karasu hung up the call without saying his goodbyes, and he watched the cloudy sky from where he sat on the hill under the tree. Such a familiar place and sight. 

The scenery was as beautiful as it was a year ago, but something big was missing, big enough to make Karaus not appreciate it. A more beautiful view. 

..

December 31st

Karasu sat on top of a different, much larger grassy hill than the one located at the park. This location however was just as familiar as the last. 

Sitting on the top of a grass hill, the blades of grass stabbed Karasu’s palms, yet he still placed his hands on top of them.

The starry sky was beautiful out here, the lack of light pollution was a reason for this. There were hundreds of thousands of stars in the sky, and Karasu couldn’t take his eyes off of the sight. 

Just a year ago he was sitting up here waiting for the clock to strike midnight just as he did the year prior.

This year he was alone. Rin and Shidou were spending New Years in a different country. Otoya and Yuki invited Karasu out to go somewhere for New Years, but in the end he ended up declining. For the last person, Alexis, Karasu didn’t know what he was doing on this New Years eve, but he wished that the other was having an enjoyable day. 

Karasu looked up at the moon, it wasn’t a full moon, nor was it even close to shining bright on this night. The moon was a sliver of a crescent, small, and hardly noticeable. 

The stars weren’t very noticeable on this day though, but that didn’t matter much when bright fireworks would fill the sky soon. 

When Karasu attempts to remember the kiss that took place last year during the show it’s futile. Karasu has forgotten most of Ness’s features, from his multiple colored hair, to the eyes of a color he can’t recall. Even when he tries to envision his face it’s just a blur, Ness is a lost part of his story, a character that has slowly withered away over time. 

Karasu turned to Ness and he did the same. For one last memory Karasu knew exactly what he wanted to do. 

Karasu cupped Ness’s cheek with one hand before pulling him into a familiar warm kiss. However, one felt so much more emotional than the last ones. 

It was a chaste kiss, short and sweet, but there was still a tear rolling down Karasu’s cheek as it came to an end. 

That was probably the last time he’d kiss Ness, and this was most likely the last happy memory they’d have together.

Behind them was a booming firework show, it was at its climax, and the sky was filled with bright colors, plenty of them. The sound of booms echoed, but Karasu couldn’t bring himself to focus on the show anymore. 

Karasu recalled that he remembered the color of the final firework, but that wasn’t the case anymore. Whwn he tried to envision that moment in his mind it was black and white. 

The event taking place as well is a blur of scenery, the only thing he remembers is himself. The person he sees in the mirror everyday.

And then…a few booms could be heard in the distance as midnight struck. 

Fireworks lit up the sky with a range of colors, and tears streamed freely down Karasu’s cheeks.

What a beautiful show, one that he would never forget, he’d say that just like he did the year prior, but he was sure that this day like most would become a blur of memories.

As Karasu observed the colorful firework filled sky there was only one sentence replaying over and over again in his mind.

A sentence that he wished to tell Ness the day they spoke for the final time.

It was possible that one day we might fall in love again Alexis…