Archive of Our Own

The phone rang loudly through the house making the silence that followed almost seem to vibrate. Just as the air started to settle itself, it rang again. Josuke poked his head out the bathroom door.

“Okuyasu,” He called into the house. “You gonna get that?” 

There was no response, only more silence.

Josuke grumbled to himself, slipping back into the bathroom. The phone rang again and he cursed under his breath as he pulled on his boxers. He hurried out into the hall as the phone went off for the fourth time.

“Oh, come on.” He protested, breaking into a sprint and managing to pick up the phone just before the last ring had finished. “Hello?”

“Oh, hi Josuke.”

It was Koichi’s voice on the other side of the line. Josuke leaned against the wall, slightly out of breath. “Hey Koichi, what’s up?”

“I just wanted to check what time you guys were thinking of heading to the train station?”

“Uh…” He glanced over at the clock in the living room. “I don’t know, maybe in an hour or so, why? I thought we were all meeting there at five?”

The front door opened and Josuke looked up to see Okuyasu step inside, his pants a little muddy by the knees. He slipped off his shoes and gave Josuke a curious look, walking over to him.

“Well,” Koichi said. “Yukako kinda wanted us to all ride to S-City together. Is that okay?”

Josuke shrugged, “Yeah sure. Is an hour good then?”

“Yeah, that should be fine.”

They said their goodbyes and Josuke hung up the phone, “It was just Koichi, he and Yukako want us to meet them at the train station.” He said to Okuyasu, answering his silent question. He paused for a moment, looking him over again. “What were you doing?”

Okuyasu looked down at his muddy knees. “Oh, I was taking out the trash, but then I saw little Potchari^[1] so I decided to-”

“Wait, wait, go back. What?” Josuke laughed, “Potchari?”

“Yeah, the little baby tanuki. I just kinda started calling him that in my head because he’s so chunky.”

“He’s only chunky because you keep feeding him.”

“Well,” Okuyasu continued, ignoring Josuke’s comment. “I went to go give him something to eat.”

Josuke couldn’t help but smile as he watched him talk. Even though he pretended that he thought it was ridiculous, he actually thought it was really cute how excited Okuyasu got about animals. When he’d first met him, Josuke would have never guessed that Okuyasu was an animal guy, but as he got to know him, it was pretty obvious that deep down, he was just a big softie and a bit of a dork.

“But it was really cute,” Okuyasu gushed excitedly. “He came right up to me and let me pet him and everything and-”

Josuke stepped closer to him, taking his face in his hands, kissing him suddenly. Okuyasu made a small sound of surprise. After a brief moment, Josuke pulled away, looking over his face with an affectionate smile. Okuyasu blinked up at him in innocent confusion.

“You shouldn’t be allowed to be so cute.” Josuke said.

“Wha…I don’t get it, what did I do?”

Josuke shook his head, “Shut up.” He chuckled, leaning in and pressing his lips to Okuyasu’s again, kissing him deeply.

Okuyasu instinctively moved to wrap his arms around Josuke, but his stomach jumped and he paused as he touched Josuke’s bare skin, becoming suddenly aware of his lack of clothes. Josuke laughed quietly into his mouth and Okuyasu felt another jolt in his stomach as Josuke shifted their position, gently leading him backwards. Okuyasu’s back found the wall and Josuke pressed himself against him. His body was still warm from the shower and his heat felt nice and comfortable. Okuyasu allowed his arms to wrap around Josuke, bringing him closer.

His breath quickened, his face starting to get hot as he felt a stirring low in his gut. Okuyasu shifted his hips away from Josuke nervously, a wave of embarrassment washing over him. What was wrong with him? He wasn’t a teenager. He needed to calm down.

Josuke pressed closer to him. As their hips met Okuyasu could feel him smiling and he realized that Josuke knew exactly what he was doing. His head felt like it was floating and Okuyasu broke away from the kiss suddenly as his knees started to feel weak, gasping for air. He’d forgotten to breathe. Without missing a beat, Josuke slid his hands to Okuyasu’s shoulders as he kissed his neck gently, allowing him to catch his breath. The softness of Josuke’s lips sent a shiver through Okuyasu’s body. It drove him crazy when he kissed him like that.

Okuyasu let out a small moan of appreciation and Josuke moved as if to kiss him again, but stopped, hovering just above his lips. Their breath seemed to vibrate in the space between them as Josuke slid one one of his hands down Okuyasu’s chest, stopping at the waistband of his pants. Okuyasu sucked in a sharp breath, he was suddenly flooded with an all too familiar feeling of embarrassment and shame. He’d had this feeling many times before when he found himself fantasizing about what it would be like to be with Josuke this way. After so many years of forcing himself to push away those thoughts and guilting himself over them, it was hard for him to re-wire his brain. But it was okay now. They were together, there was nothing wrong about how Josuke made him feel. Josuke had chosen to be with him.

Okuyasu could feel the heat radiating from Josuke’s face as he bit his lip, slipping a finger under Okuyasu’s waistband, tugging lightly on his pants. Okuyasu felt a surge inside of him and this time he didn’t push it down. He smashed his lips into Josuke’s a little more aggressively than he had intended, smooshing his nose uncomfortably into Josuke’s cheek. Josuke matched his intensity, pressing him harder against the wall and accidentally forcing Okuyasu’s head back a bit too far, causing him to smack into the wall, but Okuyasu didn’t care. He grasped at Josuke’s bare back, gripping his skin tightly with his fingers, moaning again as Josuke quickly slid his tongue into his mouth.

The phone rang loudly next to them, pulling Okuyasu away for a moment. Josuke ignored it, tugging more aggressively on his pants. Okuyasu tried to shift his attention back to Josuke, but he felt like he’d lost the rhythm of things. As the phone rang again Josuke let go of Okuyasu’s pants and kissed him slowly again, trying to bring him back. The phone rang a third time and Okuyasu felt more of his mind drifting towards it despite his efforts to focus on Josuke. 

Josuke groaned, pulling himself away from Okuyasu and picking up the phone. “Hello?” His voice was level, but there was an unmistakable note of irritation. “No Koichi, it’s fine, what’s up?”

Okuyasu struggled to steady his breathing again as he watched Josuke listening to Koichi on the phone.

“We weren't planning to, why?”

Shoving his hands in his pocket awkwardly, Okuyasu stepped away from the wall.

“Uh…I mean I guess we can…” Josuke said slowly. “Yeah, no it’s fine. I don’t really care.” He paused as Koichi spoke again. “Alright, see you then.”

Josuke hung up the phone and looked over at Okuyasu. His face was still flushed red, his hair a little disheveled as he shuffled his feet, glancing at Josuke with a shy sort of hopefulness as if to ask if they were going to continue where they’d left off.

Josuke leaned over to him and gave him a quick kiss. “Go take a shower,” he said, turning and heading toward the hall, “We have to leave here by 3:30.”

Okuyasu made a small sound of protest.

“Oh, and Yukako wants us all to wear yukata.^[2]” Josuke said casually, not looking back at him.

“What?” Okuyasu called after him, “But I don’t have one.”

Josuke paused at the door to his room, turning to look at Okuyasu thoughtfully. “I think I still have an old one. Let me check.”

Okuyasu cursed quietly under his breath, pulling off his obi for what felt like the hundredth time. He glanced at Josuke in the mirror as he walked into the room. Sometimes he couldn’t help but feel that it was a little unfair how effortless it was for Josuke to look good. He could probably wear anything and still be the most attractive person in the room. He always had this sort of confidence about him that Okuyasu just didn’t have and it made him look handsome and respectable in his yukata, while Okuyasu looked out of place and uncomfortable, like a child who’d been forced to dress in clothes that didn’t suit him.

“This is dumb.” Okuyasu said, “Why do we have to wear these stupid things anyways?”

“Hey,” There was a hint of amusement in Josuke’s voice as he walked over to him, “What’s wrong?”

“I can’t tie the stupid kai no kuchi knot.” Okuyasu muttered, avoiding Josuke’s eyes.

“Okay,” Josuke chuckled, “Well, I can help you with that. Here,” He turned Okuyasu to face him. “For starters, you’ve got your collar too far back.”

Josuke pulled off the koshi himo, allowing the yukata to fall open. He tugged the yukata gently so the collar came up against the back of Okuyasu’s neck before holding out each side to make sure they were even. He offered one side to Okuyasu so he could wrap it around himself before doing the same with the other.

“Is that comfortable?” Josuke asked and Okuyasu nodded.

Josuke handed him the koishi himo again and he started to tie it around himself as Josuke grabbed the obi.

“Okay,” Josuke folded one end of the obi and positioned it on Okuyasu. “Hold that for me real quick.”

Okuyasu held the end of the obi in place as Josuke started to wrap the rest of it around him. He couldn’t help but feel a bit embarrassed. He should have been able to dress himself, but if he was honest, he didn’t have the patience that Josuke did when it came to this sort of thing. Josuke was just much more careful and meticulous than he was. 

After the first wrap-around Josuke offered for Okuyasu to continue the rest of the way with the obi until he got to the point where he had to stop to tie it.

Josuke took the obi from Okuyasu again and started to tie the knot. He frowned for a moment, backtracking his tie. He tried again, but ended up undoing that attempt as well with a small sound of frustration.

“Ugh, I can’t do this backwards, hang on.” he said, handing the obi back to Okuyasu. 

He stepped behind him, peaking over Okuyasu’s shoulder as he slid his hands under his arms, taking the obi again. Josuke pressed his lips together in concentration as he carefully tied the kai no kuchi knot, tugging on it a little to make sure it was secure before shifting the obi so the knot would sit at Okuyasu’s back.

“There.” he said, smiling at Okuyasu in the mirror, his head still on his shoulder.

Okuyasu looked at himself a minute, before glancing away. “I look stupid.” he muttered.

Josuke smiled at him affectionately, “I don’t think so.” He kissed him lightly on the cheek, “I think you look cute.” Josuke stepped out from behind him and glanced around the room for a moment, “You ready to go then?”

“Uh, yeah, just…” Okuyasu shot a look at the camera he had left on his bedside table. He looked down at himself as he realized something for the first time, “Oh...”

“What? What’s wrong?”

“I don’t have pockets…”

Josuke looked at him questioningly.

“I wanted to bring my camera.” Okuyasu started to explain. “Since, you know, it’s kind of our first holiday and…” he trailed off as his face started to burn.

Josuke felt a soaring feeling in his chest. He grinned at Okuyasu, stepping over to pick up the camera. “I think that’s a great idea Yasu.”

Okuyasu smiled back at him sheepishly, “But then we’d have to carry it all night.”

Josuke dismissed him, “I’m sure Yukako will have a kinchaku^[3] or something.” He slid his hand into Okuyasu's, giving him a small squeeze. “Come on, let go.” 

The train station wasn’t normally this busy, but given that it was Obon, it wasn’t exactly surprising. Most of Morioh went into S-City for the festival, so they had expected a large crowd.

“Josuke! Okuyasu!” Koichi called to them through the crowd.

They saw Yukako first as she waved to them. Josuke wasn’t surprised to see that her yukata was a bit more ornate than most, looking more like a kimono than casual summer wear.

“You guys look nice.” She said, smiling as they joined her and Koichi.

Okuyasu grumbled something under his breath and Josuke elbowed him. “Thanks,” Josuke said cheerfully, “You two look good too.”

The crowd pushed in slightly as more commuters entered the station and they all stepped a bit closer. Okuyasu clutched his camera nervously. Josuke glanced down at it then over at Yukako who had a kinchaku dangling from one of her wrists.

“Hey, uh, Yukako?”

“Hm?”

“Would you mind holding on to Yasu’s camera for him?”

She stared at him a moment with a slightly confused look on her face as if she wasn’t sure if she’d heard him right. After a second of them staring at each other Josuke’s stomach gave a small jump. He’d called Okuyasu “Yasu.” He’d never called him that in front of anyone else before. Yukako looked at him suspiciously and he started to feel hot around his collar, his ears buzzing.

“Uhh…” He said quickly, his voice unnaturally loud as he took the camera from Okuyasu and held it out to Yukako, hoping to shift her attention to something else. “You don’t mind do you?”

She just continued to stare at him, her eyes narrowing slightly. Noticing Yukako’s intensity, Koichi looked over curiously as Okuyasu’s eyes darted between them nervously. Josuke shook the camera at her and she finally broke eye contact, glancing down at it.

She took the camera from him before smiling sweetly at Okuyasu, “Sure, I don’t mind.”

There was something about the way she did it that told Josuke that she’d definitely filed that away for later.

The crowd surged again and Okuyasu stepped closer to Josuke so that their shoulders were touching. He tapped the back of his hand gently with one of his fingers and Josuke gave him a quick squeeze before letting their hands fall apart again. He looked around the crowd; there were so many people here and he recognized far too many of them. It was suffocating. He couldn’t wait until they got to the city where no one would notice them.

Josuke glanced over at Koichi and Yukako, watching as Yukako took Koichi’s hand. He couldn’t help but feel a small pang of jealousy at that. It was so easy for them. He wanted more than anything to just be able to hold Okuaysu’s hand, but he knew all too well that people in Morioh like to talk and it was better, at least for now, for them to not be so public about their relationship.

The train pulled into the station and the crowd moved closer again. Koichi looked back at Josuke and Okuyasu anxiously, not wanting to lose them in the crowd. As the train came to a stop Yukako reached back, blindly grabbing one of Josuke’s hands. The crowd started to move forward and Josuke quickly took Okuyasu’s hand as well, pulling him with them. The four of them slipped through the crowd and onto the train, eventually finding a seat where they could sit across from each other.

As the other passengers around them settled into their seats, a small group of young women made their way down the aisle, chatting quietly. Josuke glanced over at them and one of the women met his eyes. His stomach gave a small jolt of surprise as he recognized Himari, the nursing student who had been shadowing him for the past few weeks. Something about her felt strangely out of place here. In Josuke’s mind, she belonged at the hospital, hurrying through the hallways with that overly anxious look she always seemed to have. He still remembered the way she used to jump every time he talked to her on her first day. It had taken nearly the entirety of their first week for her to begin to feel a little more comfortable around him. He’d never seen her look so calm and relaxed. It was good to know that she wasn’t always as high strung as she was at work.

Himari gave him a startled look as she recognized him a second later. Her body stiffened and he could see a familiar anxiety in her eyes.

“Hi Josuke-sama.” she said, stopping by their seats and giving him a bow that was, in Josuke’s opinion, a little too deep. One of her friends bumped into her lightly, not expecting the sudden stop as the other two looked at Josuke curiously.

Josuke cringed internally. He’d tried to tell her that she didn’t need to be so formal with him, but she insisted. It was true that he was her superior and he knew she was just trying to be respectful, but it still made him uncomfortable. At least she’d finally agreed to stop calling him by his family name.

“Hi, Himari.” He gave her a friendly nod.

She stared at him for a moment and it was clear she wasn’t sure where to go from here. Josuke couldn’t blame her, the two of them had only ever interacted in a professional setting and they never really talked about their lives outside of work.

One of her friends nudged her, giggling and Josuke felt Okuyasu stiffen next to him.

“Um…well, I hope you have a good time at the festival.” Himari said quickly, bowing to him again.

She paused for a second before she straightened, a slightly confused expression on her face. Suddenly, Okuyasu pulled his hand out of Josuke’s, quickly tucking it under his leg as he pretended to look out the window at the commuters still on the platform. Josuke hadn’t even realized that they were still holding hands. He felt a wave of anxiety wash over him as Himari met his eyes again.

He forced a nervous smile, “Uh, yeah, you too.”

Himari’s friends pushed her along playfully and they started to chat excitedly as they walked away. Josuke glanced back at Okuyasu. His ears were turning red as he nervously bounced his leg. Josuke moved to reach towards him, but stopped himself. He wanted to tell him it was okay, but he wasn’t really sure how, especially now that he could feel Yukako’s eyes on them again. 

They had discussed keeping things quiet while in public, especially while in town. They both wanted to take things slow and Josuke got the impression that Okuyasu was still afraid that if he wasn’t careful it would all fall apart. But that couldn’t be farther from the truth. Being with Okuyasu made Josuke happier than he could put into words. It all felt so warm and safe and easy. And if Josuke was being honest, he didn’t really care what anyone else thought. He felt right when he was with Okuyasu and as long as he had him, Josuke felt like he could get through anything.

The bell sounded through the cabin and a woman's voice announced the train’s departure. Josuke shifted in his seat so his knee lightly touched Okuyasu’s and Okuyasu looked over at him. Their eyes met and Josuke gave him a soft smile. The tension seemed to leave Okuyasu and he returned the smile, repositioning himself so he was leaning comfortably on Josuke. His warmth seemed to spread through Josuke’s body and he let out a deep breath, allowing himself to relax as the train gained speed, taking them away from Morioh.

“You’ve never been on the ferris wheel?”

“Yeah, I don’t know, I just never really thought about it.” Okuyasu shrugged.

“You’ve been on it, right Josuke?”

Josuke stared up at the structure. It was a permanent part of the festival grounds and had been there as long as he could remember, “I think my mom took me on it a few times when I was a kid, but I don’t really remember.”

“Well then you guys have to ride it with us.” Koichi insisted excitedly, already heading for the small line of people waiting to get on. “It’s really cool, it’s supposed to be modeled after the Daikanransha in Tokyo, but it’s a lot smaller. I think it’s like half the size, but you can see almost the whole festival area from the top and during Obon it looks really pretty with all the lanterns and stuff.” he explained as the group of people in front of them were ushered to their seats.

Each basket could only seat two people at a time and Josuke felt his stomach flutter with excitement as he realized that meant that he and Okuyasu would get their own. There was something romantic and a little cheesy about just the two of them riding to the top while the busy festival carried on below. It reminded Josuke of something from a movie. It was stupid, but it made him feel giddy like a teenage girl.

“Why are you smiling like that?” Okuyasu asked him quietly.

Josuke tried to hide the grin that had slowly spread its way across his face, “Oh, uh, nothing…don’t worry about it.”

The ferris wheel operator signaled for them to get on and Koichi and Yukako took the Basket that was directly in the middle while Josuke and Okuyasu went for the one that was behind them. Just as Okuyasu stepped his foot into the basket he made a quiet noise as if he’d just remembered something and hopped out.

“What?” Josuke asked anxiously looking over at the operator, a part of him worried she might start the ride before Okuyasu could get back in.

“Uhh…wait…” He hurried over to Koichi and Yukako basket, leaning over the door. “Yukako, uh…” He reached awkwardly over Koichi and Yukako stared at him with concern. “My camera.” He wiggled his hand like a small child begging for a treat.

“Oh.” She said quickly, opening her kinchaku and pulling out the camera. “Here.” she said, handing it to him.

“Sir,” the operator sounded irritated. “Please take your seat.”

Okuyasu gave her an apologetic bow, “Yes, uh, sorry.” He hurried over to Josuke, scrambling into the basket next to him, his cheeks tinged pink.

He stared straight ahead, pretending for a long moment that he couldn’t feel Josuke watching him.

“What?” He said quietly, finally looking over at Josuke who was looking at him with a mixture of affectionate amusement. “I wanted to take pictures from the top.” Okuyasu muttered.

“Uh-huh?” Josuke said, the grin on his face growing wider.

Okuyasu looked down at the camera in his hands in embarrassment, but Josuke continued watching him for a moment. He eventually looked away just as the ferris wheel started its ascent. After a minute, Josuke snuck a glance at Okuyasu. He was watching as the fairgrounds below them grew further away and Josuke felt a warmth spread through him at the look of awe on Okuyasu’s face. He slipped his hand into Okuyasu’s, intertwining their fingers as the ferris wheel slowly came to a stop with their basket at the top.

“Aww…I was hoping we’d be at the top.” Yukako sulked somewhere below them.

A devious smile slid onto Okuyasu’s face and he quickly peaked over the back of their basket at her. 

“Hey.” He called to Yukako and she looked up instinctively just in time to see him blow a raspberry at her.

Josuke busted out laughing as Yukako retaliated by flipping him off. Okuyasu gasped dramatically and turned back around in his seat, pretending to be offended, but quickly dissolving into laughter himself.

“You’re such an idiot.” Josuke laughed, struggling to breathe.

Okuyasu beamed at him proudly and Josuke nudged him with his arm playfully before resting his head on his shoulder with a sigh as he steadied his breathing. Okuyasu pressed his lips together nervously, glancing at the camera in his free hand.

“Is it…is it okay if we take a picture?”

Josuke lifted his head to look at him, “Yeah.”

Okuyasu grinned excitedly, repositioning himself and holding the camera out so they both would be in the frame. They smiled, but Okuyasu hesitated, debating with himself internally. After a moment he seemed to come to a decision and quickly kissed Josuke on the cheek just as he took the picture. Almost as quickly as he’d kissed him, Okuyasu pulled away from Josuke, avoiding his eyes as his face grew red.

“Um…” he said quietly, “Was that okay?”

Josuke watched him for a moment, his chest swelling. “Yeah…” he said warmly.

Okuyasu looked up at him hopefully and Josuke leaned in. Without warning, the ferris wheel came back to life. Josuke gave a small jump, squeezing Okuyasu’s hand and yelping in surprise as Okuyasu laughed.

“Shut up.” Josuke said, shoving him playfully.

“Ahh...” Okuyasu said suddenly, staring at the tear in the paper of his poi with disappointment.^[4]

Josuke glanced over at Koichi and Yukako. They were both intensely focused on scooping their own fish and hadn’t seemed to notice Okuyasu’s small outburst. He quickly reached over, fixing the poi with Crazy Diamond.

“Here,” He said quietly. “You’re trying to scoop them too fast. You have to be a little more gentle, but you can’t let them get away.” He explained. “Like this.”

Okuyasu watched quietly as Josuke slid his own poi under a small goldfish, raising it slowly so as to not startle the fish. The edges of the poi hovered just below the surface of the water and the fish froze, almost as if it could sense something was about to happen. Then in one fluid motion, Josuke raised the poi at a slight angle and scooped the fish expertly into the small wooden bowl floating nearby.

“Ooooh! Josuke, you’re so good at this!” Okuyasu said in amazement.

Koichi and Yukako looked up to see what Okuyasu meant just as Josuke scooped another fish into his bowl with ease.

“Eh,” Josuke shrugged. “It’s not that hard once you get a hang of it, my grandfather showed me when I was a kid.” He nudged Okuyasu, “How about you try again.”

Okuyasu stared intensely at the tank of fish in front of him until he finally singled out one fish that looked small enough that he could probably manage to scoop it. He carefully lowered his newly repaired poi into the water and did just as Josuke had shown him, placing the poi under the fish and slowly raising it up to it before quickly scooping the fish into his own bowl.

“Aah! I got him.” Okuyasu beamed excitedly.

“See,” Josuke laughed. “It’s not that hard.”

Okuyasu shifted how he was kneeling on the ground so his leg was touching Josuke’s. He leaned into him slightly and Josuke knew it was his way of saying thank you. Kingyo Sukui wasn’t anything all that serious, but Okuyasu had a habit of beating himself up over stuff like this. He hated when he couldn’t do or understand something right away, especially if everyone else didn’t seem to have a problem with it. Okuyasu wasn’t dumb, despite what he’d been told most of his life, in fact, Josuke felt that there were a lot of ways that he was smarter than he ever gave himself credit for. He just lacked confidence and that sometimes got in the way. All he needed was a little encouragement and someone to support him and he was fine.

“Oh!” Koichi yelped. “Awww.” He held up his broken poi frowning.

Yukako giggled at his disappointment only for her own poi to rip a second later. “Stupid fat fish.” she murmured.

“Hey,” Josuke scolded her playfully, not looking up from his own fish. “Don’t be mean to the fish.”

“Hehe, I’ve got you.” Okuyasu said mischievously, scooping another fish. Josuke stifled a laugh as Okuyasu pointed dramatically at another fish. “You! You’re next.” He eagerly went to scoop the fish but at the last second it squirmed tearing a hole in the poi. “Ah!” Okuyasu blinked at it in disbelief for a moment before quickly recovering and pointing accusingly at the fish. “Get him Josuke! Don’t let him get away!”

Josuke nudged the fish towards himself before expertly scooping it into his bowl. Okuyasu cheered and pointed out another one.

“That’s the big one that broke my poi.” Yukako said, narrowing her eyes menacingly, a playful smile creeping across her face.

Josuke carefully cornered the big goldfish, scooping him into the bowl as well. A small group of onlookers was starting to gather around them, interested in what all the excitement was about as Josuke’s bowl got more and more crowded with fish. One of the fish finally broke through the soggy paper and everyone cried out in disappointment.

The booth attendant started counting up the fishes in each of their bowls, leaving Josuke’s for last.

“Thirty-two!” He announced to the small crowd. “That’s a new record!”

Okuyasu punched Josuke on the arm excitedly, “I told you you were good.”

“You can take some fish home if you’d like.” The attendant offered.

Okuyasu looked at Josuke excitedly as they stood up, but Josuke pretended not to see him. He shook his head at the attendant, “No, no, that’s okay, let the kids have the fish.”

“But-” Okuyasu started to protest.

“Come on.” Josuke laughed, grabbing him by the arm and pulling him away from the booth.

“What now?” Koichi asked cheerfully.

“We could get something to eat.” Josuke suggested.

“That sounds like a good ide-” Yukako gasped, stopping in her tracks. Koichi bumped into her, not expecting the sudden halt of movement. “A fortune teller.” she said excitedly, pointing to a small cover booth ahead of them. “We should go get our futures told.”

Koichi looked uncomfortable, “Eh, I don’t know, I think I’d rather leave the future a mystery, you know?”

Yukako frowned as she turned to Josuke and Okuyasu behind them. “Josuke, will you go with me then?”

Josuke put up his hands defensively, “I’m kind of with Koichi on this one.”

“But it’ll be fun!” She insisted, “Okuyasu, what about you?”

Okuyasu shrugged, “Sure, why not.”

Yukako beamed at him excitedly, taking him by the arm and dragging him towards the booth.

“We’ll go look for some food then.” Josuke called after them.

Yukako pulled Okuyasu through the open curtains that covered the front of the booth and they were suddenly hit with an overwhelming smell of tea and incense.

“Please, take a seat.” A woman’s voice said from somewhere in the booth. “And please close the curtain behind you.”

Yukako did as she was told, eagerly taking one of the seats in front of a small wooden table that took up a majority of the booth. Okuyasu sat down next to her, squinting in the dim light. It took his eyes a moment to adjust and see a small elderly woman on the other side of the table.

The woman gave them a friendly smile, “Tea?” She said it like a question, but she didn’t wait for their answers, pouring them each a small cup.

They both took their cups, nodding politely.

“Now,” She turned towards Yukako. “I get the feeling you would like me to start with you.”

Yukako straightened in her seat, her shoulders stiffening a little defensively, “Are you just saying that because I’m a girl?”

“No dear,” the woman said calmly. “It’s just your energy is all. Your spirit is calling out to me.”

Yukako looked at her skeptically for a moment before allowing herself to relax again. The woman reached her hand across the table, waiting patiently with her palm up.

“Your right hand please.”

Yukako offered her hand and the woman leaned forward, tilting it so as to see it from different angles. Her eyes moved across Yukako’s palm as if reading a book and Okuyaus found himself leaning closer as well.

The woman traced the top line across Yukakos palm, “Hmmm, you’re a very passionate young woman…that’s good, but be careful not to be too overbearing, you could easily suffocate the ones you love.”

Okuyasu glanced at Yukako with a small knowing smile. She shot him a warning look before turning her attention back to the woman.

“Though I can see you are in a strong relationship and your ambition tells me you’re not likely to let it slip away from you.”

“Ah-” Yukako interjected and the woman stopped, looking up at her curiously. “I was wondering…” She turned slightly away from Okuyasu, her face glowing red in the candle light. “Do you see anything about marriage or…”

The woman gave a small chuckle, “Oh yes, you have a particularly deep marriage line. Here.” The woman pointed to a deep line coming from the side of Yukako’s hand, just under her pinky. “I see the possibility of two children as well.”

Yukako’s chest swelled in excitement and she shifted in her seat so she appeared a bit taller as the woman let go of her hand.

“Your partner…” she said slowly. “He’s cautious, almost a little timid at times.”

Yukako nodded.

“It might take him a bit longer than you would like, but be patient dear. A little encouragement from friends, however, might help speed things along.” With her last sentence she turned to Okuyasu, giving him a small wink.

The woman leaned back for a moment, not looking away from Okuyasu. She narrowed her eyes at him and he looked away awkwardly, his face feeling hot.

“You…you have a question for me.”

Okuyasu blinked at her, “I do?”

The woman nodded, “Yes, you do, well it’s more like your soul has a question, you may not be aware of it. I need you to try to focus on it though.”

Okuyasu started at the table in concentration as the woman began to rummage through a small box, pulling out some wooden blocks and a small cup. What did he want to know? Okuyasu hadn’t really thought of anything when he’d agreed to come with Yukako, but hearing the woman tell her about her and Koichi had made him think about him and Josuke. Ever since he’d confessed his feelings to Josuke, a part of him felt lighter somehow. In a lot of ways he felt like he could be completely honest with Josuke now, he didn’t have to hide anything anymore or be afraid, but still, there was a small part of him that was scared. He trusted Josuke and he was happy being with him and it seemed that Josuke felt the same way, so why was it that he still found himself holding back. What was he afraid of?

A small wave of nausea passed over Okuyasu. He knew exactly what he was afraid of: He was afraid of losing Josuke. He was afraid that he’d make a mistake and ruin everything, just like he always did.

Okuyasu took a deep breath, sitting up in his seat. He had his question.

“Are you ready dear?” the woman asked.

Okuyasu nodded before glancing over at Yukako nervously, “I don’t have to say my question out loud do I?”

The woman shook her head kindly and picked up the cup, placing her hand over one end as she shook it.^[5] Okuyasu watched her intensely, focusing on the gentle rattling of the cup. After a minute she stopped, taking her hand off the cup and tipping out several dice. She quickly lined the dice up and started arranging the woodblocks into a neat hexagram with six rows. Okuyasu started tapping his foot nervously as she pulled out a small, worn looking book, comparing the hexagrams on the pages to the one she had created on the table. The sound of the festival outside seemed to die away as the silence inside the booth pressed in on them. Yukako glanced at Okuyasu curiously out of the corner of her eye.

“Ahh…” the woman said quietly. “I see.” She set down the book and smiled up at Okuyasu. “No need to be so worried dear.”

Okuyasu laughed anxiously, fidgeting in his seat. He felt sick. He didn’t want to do this anymore.

“There’s recently been a big change in your life and it’s made you very happy.” the woman said slowly and Okuyasu nodded. “And you’re worried that happiness might slip away?”

Okuyasu bit his lip. He nodded again, but there was a stiffness to his movement.

“I meant what I said dear, there’s no need to be worried. You and your partner have a very deep connection, your fates are intertwined in a way I’ve only ever seen once before and I’ve been doing this for a long time.” The woman chuckled, “I can see that you both care for each other very much. But you still worry that there is an imbalance in the relationship, that you need him more than he needs you.” The woman shook her head with a smile, “I wouldn’t say that’s the case at all. You should embrace your feelings, don’t be scared of them, your partner adores you. He loves you deeply and I don’t think there is anything you could do to change that.”

Okuyasu stared at the old woman in shock and a stunned silence settled over them. He was only vaguely aware of Yukako’s eyes on him as the woman’s words started to sink in. His eyes stung and he quickly looked up, blinking rapidly to stop the tears from rolling down his face. He let out a shaky laugh, but this time it was one of relief as he quickly wiped his eyes.

The woman gave them a small bow, “Is there anything else?” She looked between them.

 “Uhh…no…” Yukako said slowly, tearing her eyes away from Okuyasu before bowing back to the woman. “Um,” she quickly riffled through her kinchaku, pulling out two thousand yen and placing it onto the table with another bow. “Thank you very much.” Yukako stood quickly, turning to leave the booth. 

Okuyasu gave the old woman a bow as well and thanked her before scrambling after Yukako. He wasn’t sure why, but there was something about the swift way she’d exited the booth that gave him the impression she was pissed off. As he stepped out of the booth, Yukako grabbed his arm roughly, dragging him with her as she walked hurriedly away from the fortune teller, not looking at him.

“Yukako!” he protested, trying to take his arm back, but she tightened her grip. “Wha-”

Yukako turned suddenly, pulling Okuyasu between two empty stalls that had been closed up for the night before letting go of his arm and rounding on him. “I can’t believe you!” She seethed. “Were you just not going to tell anyone?”

Okuyasu stared at her indignantly, “What are you talking about?”

Yukako rolled her eyes, “You and Josuke!” She hit him with her kinchaku, “Do you think I’m an idiot?”

“Ow!” Okuyasu flinched away from her, “Wa- No. I-”

“How long!” She demanded, hit him again.

“What?”

“How long have you guys been together?”

“Since Josuke’s birthday.” He said quickly putting his arms up to protect himself from another swing of her kinchaku.

“Since- You son of a-” she started hitting him in rapid succession. “That was over a month ago!”

“Yukako!” Okuyasu attempted to swat away her kinchaku, but she dodged him, hitting him again. “Would you stop hitting me?”

She gave him one more good whack, huffing at him angrily. “I have been waiting for you idiots to get together since high school.” She hissed. “And you finally do and you were just not going to tell me?”

Sure that she wasn’t going to hit him again, Okuyasu lowered his arms, “We haven't told anyone.” He said quietly. “Well…except for Miss Higashikata, but that’s different.”

Yukako glared at him stiffly for a long moment before finally sighing and allowing her shoulders to relax. “Whatever.” she mumbled, looking away from him.

“Promise you won’t say anything to Koichi though,” Okuyasu pleaded. “Josuke really wants to tell him himself.”

“I won’t say anything, I promise.”

“Do you think they’re done by now?” Koichi asked, glancing at the now cold bowl of okuzukake^[6] he had bought for Yukako.

Josuke shrugged, “Probably, we could always head over there and see.”

The two of them stood from their table, clearing their dishes before making their way through the food stalls toward the fortune teller's tent.

“Do you think she’s going to want something big and showy?” Koichi asked, continuing their conversation.

“Knowing Yukako, probably.” 

Koichi looked down at the bowl in his hands and made a small pained sound, “That’s so much pressure.” he said quietly.

“Yeah…” Josuke thought for a long moment, “Maybe I’m wrong though. I always thought big public proposals were kinda corny. Small personal moments are much more romantic, you know, but that’s just me.”

Koichi sighed and looked up at Josuke. He was staring somewhere ahead of them with cloudy eyes, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. After a moment, Josuke seemed to have noticed Koichi staring. He blinked, glancing around a little nervously. 

“Oh!” he said suddenly, spotting a food stall that was selling takoyaki. “Hang on a sec.” He quickly stepped away from Koichi and up to the stall counter.

Koichi watched him curiously as he walked back over with a small basket. “I thought you hated takoyaki.”

“Hm? Oh, yeah, I do, but Okuyasu really likes it.” Josuke avoided Koichi’s eyes and for a moment Koichi could have sworn his face looked a little pink. Josuke looked out at the crowd in front of them, “There they are.” he said waving to Okuyasu and Yukako and the two of them hurried over.

“How did it go?” Koichi asked, handing Yukako the bowl of okuzukake.

“It was fun.” Yukako said cheerfully.

“You guys learn anything interesting?” Josuke teased.

Yukako glanced at Okuyasu as Josuke silently offered him the takoyaki with a small smile, “Maybe…” she said slyly and Josuke raised an eyebrow at her.

Koichi looked over at them curiously for a moment. “Um…” he turned back to Yukako, “Do you think the boats are still running?”

“Yeah, the fireworks don’t start for an hour so we should have plenty of time.”

“Do you guys want to meet up after we’re done?” Koichi asked Josuke and Okuyasu.

“Oh.” Josuke shuffled his feet awkwardly, “I kind of wanted to do the boats too.” he said quietly.

“Oh, I just thought…the boats only fit two and it's kind of a couples thing an- ow!”

Yukako stepped on Koichi’s foot, giving Okuyasu a look as Koichi stared up at her with a hurt expression.

Okuyasu took the hint. “We can get a boat.” he said quickly, trying to sound casual. “I always wanted to get one, it looks fun.”

“Sounds like a plan.” Yukako said cheerfully, ignoring Koichi’s confusion, “Come on.” She grabbed Koichi’s hand, steering him towards the lake.

“Why’d you step on my foot?” Koichi asked quietly.

“I didn’t do it on purpose darling, I’m sorry.”

Koichi frowned at her, something about it didn’t feel like a real apology. He’d clearly done something Yukako didn’t like, but he had a feeling she wasn’t going to tell him.

Trailing behind them, Okuyasu slipped his hand into Josuke’s, trying to be as casual as he could. It wasn’t a big deal, it was just holding hands, but for some reason he felt like everyone was staring. He felt exposed and a part of him couldn’t help but worry that he might be being a bit too bold. He snuck a glance at Josuke out of the corner of his eye and felt a wave of relief as he saw him smiling. Maybe the old woman had been right, maybe he didn’t have anything to worry about.

As they neared the lake, Yukako looked over her shoulder to make sure they hadn’t lost Josuke and Okuyasu in the crowd. Noticing them holding hands she met Okuyasu’s eyes and gave him an encouraging smile. Next to her Koichi turned to say something and Yukako quickly tugged on his arm to get his attention.

“Look,” She said loudly, pointing toward the lake. “There’s no line!”

She quickened her walk, forcing Koichi into a small trot to keep up with her. Coming to the edge of the lake, the boat attendant motioned towards one of the small boats that was docked just off the shore. Yukako hurried forward, but stopped suddenly just before boarding the boat.

“Oh, wait…” she turned, fiddling with her kinchaku as she quickly walked back to Okuyasu, handing him his camera with a knowing smile before rushing to join Koichi again.

The attendant untied their boat and gave them a small push, sending them off onto the lake.

Yukako waved to Josuke and Okuyasu cheerfully, “See you guys in a bit!”

They waved goodbye and the attendant offered them a boat of their own. Okuyasu stepped in first stumbling as he lost his balance. Josuke caught his arm, stopping him from falling into the water and pulling him upright.

“Woah,” He laughed, stepping into the boat after him. “Careful.”

Okuyasu looked at him sheepishly before taking a seat. Once Josuke settled himself next to him, the attendant sent them off with a push. Okuyasu grabbed Josuke’s wrist nervously as the boat tipped slightly.

“You okay?”

“Yeah…I just…it’s kinda a small boat…” Okuyasu muttered, looking over the edge.

Josuke knew what he meant. The paddle boats were fine for Yukako and Koichi, but it was a tight fit for someone tall like him or Okuyasu.

Josuke leaned into Okuyasu, wrapping his arm around his. “I’m sure it’s fine. Besides, I don’t mind being a little squished.” Josuke said, letting his head rest on Okuyasu’s shoulder. He glanced at the camera in his hand. “Did you want to take another picture?” he said, reaching for it.

“Uh, yeah, if that’s okay.” Okuyasu offered Josuke the camera.

“Of course it’s okay.” Josuke laughed, holding the camera out just as Okuyasu had done earlier. He paused for a moment and looked up at Okuyasu. “Yasu?”

“Hm?”

Okuyasu turned to him and Josuke quickly leaned towards him, kissing him gently as he pressed down the shutter, taking a picture with a bright flash. Lowering the camera, Josuke started to pull away, but Okuyasu leaned in, returning the kiss. The boat lurched suddenly from the uneven weight and Okuyasu quickly leaned back to his side of the boat, clutching the seat in alarm. 

“I told you the boat was too small.” he said, looking anxiously over the edge again.

“Oh come on,” Josuke chuckled. “It’s fine.” He reached over, turning Okuyasu’s face towards him. “You just have to be a little more careful.” He said, pulling Okuyasu closer, kissing him again.

There was something about the lantern lit streets with the faint sound of the music of the Bon Odori^[7] floating on the air as the sun went down that somehow made it easy to believe that the veil between the living and the dead truly was thinner this time of year. The Edo style booths looked completely different in the candle light, bringing the festival back in time. 

The crowd had started to thin out a bit. Most families with young children went home before the fireworks and of course there were those who preferred to do their own, more traditional Okuribi.^[8] But for as long as Josuke could remember, his family had always come into S-City for the fireworks on the last day of Obon. While his mother had inherited some old superstitions from her father, she’d never really been one for old school traditions.

“Oooooohhhhh look at you guys!”

Josuke flinched at the sound of his mother’s voice and turned to see her separating herself from a small group of women that Josuke vaguely recognized as a few of her co-workers. He groaned quietly as Yukako and Koichi stopped walking, looking around for Tomoko. Josuke tried to push Okuyasu along, but it was too late.

“Hi Miss Higashikata!” Okuyasu waved to her cheerfully.

“Hi, sweety.” She said, smiling as she walked over to them. “You all look so cute!” She gasped a little dramatically, “Yukako, that yukata is beautiful, did you get here in the city?”

Yukako beamed at the compliment, “I have an aunt in Tokyo, she sent it to me.”

“Well, it really suits you.”

Yukako gave Tomoko a small bow in thanks as Tomoko turned to Josuke who was pretending not to see her.

“And don’t you boys look so handsome.” She said loudly, drawing a few stares from passers by.

“Mom…” Josuke protested as she grabbed his arm, turning him so he was facing her. Up close he could see that her face was flushed red and it was obvious that she had had a few drinks.

“Come on,” She said playfully. “Let me look at you.” She stepped back, looking them over. “Don’t you two look good together?”

Josuke’s stomach gave a small jump, his face burning as he quickly glanced over at Yukako and Koichi who were both trying desperately to stifle their laughter. 

“Oohh I wish I had a camera.” Tomoko said.

Yukako’s eyes lit up and she plunged her hand into her kinchaku, quickly pulling out Okuyasu’s camera. “Here you go.” She offered it to Tomoko who gasped excitedly.

Josuke shot Yukako a menacing look as Tomoko held up the camera, motioning for them to move so she could get them both in the picture.

Josuke grumbled as Okuyasu quickly complied, stepping closer to him with a smile.

Tomoko peaked over the top of the camera, “Oh come on, a little closer.” She pleaded and Okuyasu slipped his arm around Josuke’s shoulder, pulling him to him. “Yeah, like that.” She smiled, raising the camera to her eye again, “Like you love each other.”

“Mom!” Josuke said as the camera flashed.

Tomoko lowered the camera frowning. “Come on Josuke.” Her tone shifted to one of irritation, “Why’d you do that, now I have to take another one.”

“No.” Josuke stepped forward, reaching for the camera, but Tomoko quickly moved it away from him. “I’m done. No more pictures.” He grabbed for the camera again, but Tomoko held it out of his reach. “Mom,” He said through clenched teeth. “Give me the camera.”

“No.”

“Give it to me.”

“No, not until you let me get a good picture of you two.” Tomoko pouted.

“Josuke…” Okuyasu said quietly. “Just one more.” Josuke stopped trying to grab the camera and turned to look at him. 

Okuyasu stared at him pleadingly. Josuke took a deep breath. As much as his mother was irritating him, he could say no to Okuyasu. Not when he looked like that.

Josuke let out a loud groan, “Fine.”

Okuyasu beamed at him as he walked back over to join him. He put his arm around Josuke’s shoulders again, giving him a small squeeze as he pulled him closer.

Tomoko grinned, holding up the camera once more. “Now,” She said. “Try not to look so grumpy Josuke.”

Josuke opened his mouth to respond, but Okuyasu gave him another squeeze and he sighed, offering a small smile just as Tomoko snapped the picture.

“See,” Tomoko said. “That wasn’t so bad.” She walked over and handed Okuyasu the camera. “I need you to stick around.” She said in a quiet voice, “You see how mean he is to me.”

Josuke rolled his eyes, “Alright,” He grabbed Okuyasu’s wrist, pulling him away from Tomoko. “Let’s get going, or there aren’t going to be any good spots left.”

By the time the four of them made their way to the park Josuke had managed to calm down a bit. He knew his mother hadn’t meant any harm. She was probably just a little too tipsy and didn’t think much of it, but it had still felt out of line. It wasn’t like Josuke wanted to keep him and Okuyasu a secret forever, but it didn’t feel like it was his mother’s place to out them like that either. On the other hand, however, neither Yukako or Koichi had said anything about it. They had acted as if that had all been perfectly normal, so maybe he was getting all worked up over nothing. When he thought about it, his mom had done and said stuff like that long before he and Okuyasu were dating. She used to tease them all the time when they were in high school.

All of a sudden it felt as if someone had yanked the floor out from under Josuke as the realization hit him. Had she known? Since way back then? No. There was no way.

Well…

The night Okuyasu had finally told Josuke how he felt he’d said something that still nagged at the back of Josuke’s mind: “for a while.” He’d told Josuke that he’d had feelings for him “for a while” and Josuke still wasn’t sure what that meant. Occasionally he’d sort of bring it up, but it always made Okuyasu all flustered and embarrassed and he never gave him a straight answer.

Josuke’s mind started to wander. He thought about the way Okuyasu used to get irritated whenever girls at school would flirt with him or give him chocolates on valentines day.

“What, you jealous or something?”

“No…it’s just…they don’t even know you. It’s kind of pathetic ya’know.”

Or all the nights Okuyasu used to stay over and they’d share the guest futon on his living room floor, talking late into the night until one of them finally passed out.

Oh god.

Josuke’s stomach tumbled as a memory suddenly surfaced.

“Wish I could take it back. I want a re-do, you know. It’s not really fair. I alway thought that my first kiss would be with someone I knew, someone I trusted.”

It had been his second year in highschool and they had all been assigned partners for a project they had to do over spring break. Josuke had been paired with a girl that he’d never even talked to before. She had seemed nice, but when he’d gone over to her house to work on the project, she had tried to force herself on him. He’d pushed her away and she had gotten angry. She screamed at him, saying that he’d lead her on, throwing him out of her house. It had been his first kiss and it had been awful. It had made him feel gross and violated and he didn't know what to do so he had walked all the way to Okuyasu’s place in the rain.

Okuyasu had been upset when he told him what happened, but he took care of him. He didn’t push or ask too many questions. He had just given Josuke some dry clothes and sat quietly on the couch holding him as he broke down. For about two weeks, Okuyasu spent every night with him, making sure he was okay. It had all been so traumatic that Josuke had shoved it into some dark corner in the back of his mind, completely forgetting about it until now.

One of those nights he and Okuyasu had been talking on his bed. He didn’t really remember how it happened. He just remembered talking about how he just wanted to know what a real kiss was like. A kiss he wanted, with someone he cared about. Then, suddenly he found himself inches from Okuyasu’s face in the dark. He could feel the heat of his breath as they both slowly leaned closer until their lips finally met. They had kissed. And it had been gentle and tender. It had been something they both wanted and Josuke remembered, that for just a moment that night, as he felt the softness of Okuyasu’s lips on his, he thought that he might just be able to fall in love with him if he let himself.

But they had never talked about it again and it was almost as if it had never happened. They had been each other's first real kiss and Josuke had forgotten all about it. How could he have forgotten something like that?

Okuyasu looked at Josuke, tilting his head curiously, “You okay?”

Josuke stared at him in awe. His chest felt like it was going to burst as it swelled with emotions. He was overwhelmed. He wanted to scream. He wanted to let Okuyasu and everyone else know how much he meant to him. How was he supposed to stand there and look at this man, his best friend, who had loved him so quietly and so patiently for so many years, and not tell him that he loved him too? That he’d always loved him, whether he’d realized it or not?

“Josuke…?” Okuyasu said, a note of concern in his voice.

“I’m okay…” Josuke managed, his voice barely audible over the low murmur of the crowd.

“You sure?”

Josuke nodded, taking Okuyasu’s hand. “Yeah,” He smiled. “I’m sure.”

The first of the fireworks launched into the air and they both looked up as the crowd cheered. Josuke stepped closer to Okuyasu, resting his head on his shoulder as he looked up at him, watching the way the light from the fireworks danced across his face. He reached up slowly, touching his cheek lightly. Okuyasu turned to him, meeting his eyes and suddenly everything else seemed to fall away. It was just them, standing there in the night with the sky shimmering above them. Josuke pulled Okuyasu to him and pressed his lips softly to his. He kissed him slowly, wanting him to feel everything he was feeling. Wanting him to know he was loved.

“Hey, do you guys- oh.” Koichi froze as he turned to see Josuke and Okuyasu. 

His face started burning and he quickly looked away, staring straight ahead with wide eyes. He wasn’t sure what he should do. He felt like he’d intruded on a private moment, but how was he supposed to know that they would be kissing? He’d known that Josuke and Okuyasu had always been close, but he’d never expected this. Why had nobody told him?

Yukako leaned towards Koichi to make a comment on the fireworks only to realize he hadn’t been watching them. Feeling her eyes on him, Koichi looked up at her. Her eyebrows knit in confusion and she started to look behind them at Josuke and Okuyasu, but Koichi waved his hands at her, desperately telling her to stop, but she ignored him, glancing back at them.

She let out a small, “Oop.” and covered her mouth with her hand, looking back at Koichi with a girlish giggle.

He stared at her in silent disbelief. She already knew. “You knew?” he hissed at her indignantly.

She nodded, giggling again.

“What? Why didn’t you tell me?”

Yukako shrugged innocently, “I promised I wouldn’t.”

“What? Why?”

A series of large fireworks went off and the crowd gasped in awe. Yukako turned her attention back to the sky, ignoring Koichi’s question.

“Yukako…” Koichi urged, but she continued to ignore him and it was clear the discussion was over.

Koichi sighed, sneaking a glance at Josuke and Okuyasu. They were standing close together. Okuyasu had his arm around Jouske’s waist and was leaning his head comfortably on his shoulder as Josuke let his own head rest on top of Okuyasu’s. Koichi felt a warmth in his chest and he couldn’t help but smile. They looked happy, and when it came down to it, that’s what really mattered.

The train back to Morioh was quiet. Koichi looked absently down the aisle. He wasn’t really looking at anything in particular, he was just trying to avoid Josuke’s eyes. Okuyasu had fallen asleep on Josuke's shoulder. It wasn’t the first time he’d done something like this, but it somehow felt different now that Koichi knew they were together. He wondered how long it had been. How long had Yukako known? Did anyone else know? Why didn’t they want to tell him? Did they think he was going to have a problem with it? Sure it was a bit weird to think of two of his closest friends dating, but he’d get used to it. 

The train slowed to a stop, the bell chiming through the cabin, announcing their arrival at Morioh station. Josuke placed a hand on Okuyasu’s chest, gently shaking him awake.

“Come on sleeping beauty, we’re back.”

Okuyasu grumbled, rubbing his eyes before blinking blearily out the window. The four of them stood, following the other passengers onto the platform. As they walked Koichi saw Josuke lean over and whisper something to Okuyasu. He looked at him as if to say “You sure?” and Josuke nodded firmly.

Yukako stopped as they came to the station entrance and turned to face them, smiling sleepily, “Well that was fun. Thank you guys for coming.” She handed Okuyasu his camera.

“Of course.” Josuke said. He returned her smile, but there was an underlying nervousness about it.

Yukako looked to Koichi, “Should we call it a night then?”

“Um, actually…” Josuke said in a timid voice. “There…uh…there’s something I- something we wanted to tell you.”

Yukako’s eyes shifted excitedly to Okuyasu, but he was watching Josuke intensely.

Josuke took a deep breath, staring at Koichi’s shoes, “Okuyasu and I…we’re dating.”

Okuyasu took his hand, giving it an encouraging squeeze and Josuke looked up to meet Yukako and Koichi’s eyes. They were silent for a moment, standing unnaturally still, as if they were holding their breath.

Okuyasu shot Yukako a look and she straightened suddenly, “Um, uh…yyyes.” She said slowly as if she was expecting Josuke to continue.

“Yukako.” Okuyasu groaned, “You could at least act a little surprised.”

Yukako looked at him offended, “No one was surprised when Koichi and I started going out. Did you want me to pretend that I didn’t know?”

Koichi slowly covered his face with his hands, sinking down into a squatting position. Why was she doing this now?

“For the record,” Okuyasu said, “Josuke almost fell out a window when Koichi told him. And I don’t know, maybe.”

“Wait,” Josuke turned to Okuyasu, “She already knew?”

Okuyasu gave him a guilty look, “The fortune teller kind of outed us.” He said quietly

“The fortune teller?!” Koichi said suddenly, looking up at Yukako in disbelief. “You mean you’ve only known since today?”

“Well, I’ve had my suspicions for a while.” Yukako said defensively, “But yes, they were only just confirmed today.”

“You told him?!” Okuyasu said accusingly.

“I didn’t tell him!”

“Well then how did he find out?”

“I saw you and Josuke kissing during the fireworks.” Koichi blurted, slapping his hand over his mouth, shocked by his own outburst.

“Oh.” Okuyasu’s face started turning red.

“Koichi!” Yukako scolded him.

Josuke made a small, strangled sound and the three of them fell silent, turning their attention to him in horror. He was covering his mouth with his hand as his shoulder shook slightly.

“Josuke…” Okuyasu said cautiously and Josuke looked up at him with watery eyes. “Oh…” he breathed, his heart sinking, “Oh no. Hey,” he put a hand on his shoulder, “I’m sorry…I-”

“You guys are so stupid.” Josuke mumbled into his hand and Okuyasu’s face changed to one of understanding. 

Josuke snorted as he tried to fight back his laughter, but he couldn’t hold it in any more. He doubled over, laughter bursting out of him as tears streamed down his face. Josuke had known that everything was probably going to turn out fine, but that hadn’t made telling Yukako and Koichi any easier. He hadn’t really known what to expect from them, but he had in no way anticipated something like this. He was glad though. It wasn’t how he had intended them to find out, but it really took the pressure off. It was no longer some big thing, instead they were all arguing about who had ruined the moment the same way they argued about where they all should go to eat. It was nice and Josuke wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Josuke gasped for air, trying to steady his breathing as he wiped his eyes. He straightened and let out a long breath, smiling at Yukako and Koichi. They both stared at him with a mixture of confusion and concern.

“Can you guys promise me something?” He said after a minute and the two of them nodded earnestly. He shook his head with a chuckle, “Please never change.” Letting out a sigh, Josuke held out a hand to Okuyasu. “Yasu, let’s go home.”

Okuyasu took his hand with an affectionate smile and the two of them started towards their bus stop.

“And guys,” Josuke said over his shoulder, “Thank you.”