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Never had Souta seen a longer piece of carpet in his life. Not only was it ridiculously long, but getting from one end of it to the other was going to change his life forever. But that’s what he wanted. Right? That’s why they were here.
Just cross the carpet and you’ll be where your heart belongs. Or is it a rug? In English it would be a runner… Argh, Souta stop!!! Focus! Today of all days…
His eyes scanned upwards from the velvet red fabric beneath him to the dark chocolate eyes that adored him. His heart skipped a beat when Nao’s gaze met his own, the man’s lips parting slightly, eyes squinting as they always did when they fell on Souta. They were filled with the love and devotion he had never seen from anyone else. And he planned to never lose it.
Souta wanted to quicken his pace. He wanted to take his place at Nao’s side. The stupid carpet was too long. It was agonizing. And the music was too slow. Why was it so slow? He should have never agreed to walk the aisle in the first place. It was ridiculous! Absurd!
With their family and friends watching —God why did they have to hold an actual wedding! — there was only so much Souta could rush through.
Look at him, with his smug handsome face, so proud to have me walking towards him. Does he have any idea how nerve racking this fucking walk is? With everyone watching me and not a soul looking at him?!
Souta took a deep breath, his heart beating in time with his steps. It allowed his mind to slow. For him to notice the slight furrow above Nao’s left eyes and the nervous twitch of the hands he would soon be holding. Nao was just as nervous and impatient as he was.
The anticipation. The thrill. The longing. The never-ending wait. It tormented them both.
He was halfway down the aisle when Nao started to shift his weight between his feet. Souta blinked once, allowing all the negative emotions he felt to wash away, opening his eyes to show only the love and devotion he held in his heart. It must have worked, as Nao glanced away for a second. When their eyes met again, there was a small hint of doubt lingering in Nao’s. It was something Souta rarely saw from the man he loved.
I wonder, Souta thought to himself as a way to calm his nerves, is he getting cold feet? Or is he worried I am?
Souta realised walking the isle might not be as bad as standing and waiting. He imagined the anxiety and stress of it. Only being able to watch and wait while desperately hoping and praying for the person before you to keep moving forward. Not being able to control the speed. Being subject to their final decision.
Souta slowed his pace slightly and Nao’s eyebrow twitched. He couldn’t help but chuckle. That did not go unnoticed by Nao, who glared at him slightly.
I might pay for that later, Souta thought gleefully. But it was worth it to see him sweat it out.
When Souta reached Nao, it seemed obvious that neither of them were doubting this decision. They clasped hands, one on top of the other, on top of the other, on top the other. With a tight squeeze, a longing gaze, and a simultaneous breath in; Nao and Souta faced the officiant.
The words rolled over them as the man spoke of union, love, devotion, and a lifetime together. It didn’t matter what was said, though. Words were just words. The bond they shared could not be placed into mere sounds they could speak.
But they were determined to try.
“I believe the couple has written their own vows,” the officiant said with a smile.
He took a step back to give them space. The men faced one another and the scene finally sunk in.
Nao wore a traditional style dark navy suit. It contoured to his body, showing his firm upper torso, thin waist, and long legs. His raven black hair was barely styled, being naturally perfect as always. His eyes glistened as they stared back into Souta’s.
Souta’s attire was a well fitted button down vest, the shade of an evergreen tree, with an eggshell white dress shirt that was long sleeved. His pants were a green so dark you might think they were black. He had styled his hair, pulled it back and glued it down with gel. Hopefully, it would make it through the ceremony and photos.
Nao pulled Souta closer, forcing his lover’s hands to lay flat against his chest. Souta could feel his heart racing and sighed. As always, everything just seemed to fit.
“Souta,” Nao said while taking a deep breath in. “From the day I first saw you, you had my undivided attention, though I know you didn’t want it.” He smiled lightly. “Your bright and bubbly personality caught the sight of all those around you. Always part of the crowd, you made life seem fun and carefree. But when no one was looking,” Nao spoke softly, gently gliding a hand over Souta’s cheek, “I found you looking as lonely and misunderstood as I felt. You were an enigma to me. Most days you still are.”
The crowd around them mumbled, reminding them of their presence.
“Regardless of what you felt, you persevered. Always willing and wanting to go above and beyond. To help those around you. Even someone as stubborn as me. Your determination showed me that life is only as hard as you let it seem, and together it is possible to face anything. After everything we have been through, I know there is no one else who could make me as happy as you do. And I promise that regardless of what life throws at us I will stay by your side, as long as you’ll have me. I love you Souta, more than I ever thought I would love anyone. You are my world, my light, my star that always brings me home.”
The crowd murmured quietly as Nao’s words came to an end.
Don’t cry, don’t cry, don’t cry!
An emotional chuckle came from Nao. Souta felt a squeeze on his hands. Lowering eyes, he cleared his throat.
“Nao,” Souta’s voice shook as he spoke. “When I heard of the smart, handsome, athletic, pretty boy from the other class, I immediately took notice. I won't lie. I was jealous of almost everything you could do. You made it look so easy. And yet you seemed to hate the praise and adoration that came with it. And you seemed to hate me.”
Nao huffed, a frown crossing his face. The audience hummed with doubt as to where Souta was going with this. Undeterred, he pulled their hands away from Nao’s chest, moved them so their palms were flat against each other, and intertwined their fingers. Sighing, he stared into Nao’s dark chocolate eyes.
“It took me a while to see that what I thought were glares from you were anything but. I realized that of all the people that surrounded us, you only ever looked at me. Like I was the only person in your world. Or at least the only one that mattered.”
Several people watching seemed to agree.
“While I thought I was breaking through your walls, you were tearing down my own. You saw my self doubt for what it was and pushed me to be honest about my own struggles. Your stubbornness became patience as you stayed by my side through the most ridiculous of fights. When I lose myself amongst the crowd, you always find me. Suddenly, you were the only person in my world that mattered.”
Nao took in a shuddering breath and pulled Souta closer. His smile was pure, the affection in his eyes tangible.
“I know you love me for me and nothing else. I hope you know I love you the same.” Souta’s eyes watered. “In a world where things are always changing, I will stay by your side as long as you’ll have me. I love you, for loving me for who I am and accepting everything I can never be.
“Idiot,” Nao whispered. “How can you be any more than you already are?”
“If I am your star,” Souta continued, determined to finish, “then you are my moon. You reflect my light back at me, showing me who I am and what I can be, while always giving me a place to belong.”
Nao’s hands gripped Souta’s tightly. The sparkle in the chocolate brown eyes told him Nao was battling an overwhelming urge to pull him into a suffocating embrace. He squeezed back, hoping the man soon to be his husband understood that he felt the same.
Once again, the officiant’s words passed over without Souta taking them in. He recognized his name at some point and answered with only “I do.” Nao responded to his name in the same matter, their gaze only ever breaking if one of them glanced at the lips of the other.
The word kiss was all they needed to hear. Souta’s arms were around Nao’s neck, his hand messing up the fluffy black hair he loved. Nao had one arm wrapped around Souta’s waist, the second supporting his back. Their lips met, forming the perfect seal to end their vows. Resisting the urge to deepen the kiss while their loved ones looked on, Souta opened his eyes to find his husband staring back at him.
“I can’t believe you actually married me,” Nao whispered softly.
“I can’t believe you interrupted me!” Souta giggled.
“Please, only you heard.” Nao looked into his eyes lovingly and sighed. “Besides it’s your fault for needing reminders about what I literally had just said.”
With a giggle, Souta hugged Nao again. He couldn’t contain his joy. His chest was on fire, his eyes a watery mess, while he whole body was shaking.
I can’t believe it! Souta's thoughts filled with gratitude and love. Our impossible dream is now our reality.
—------------------------------
The reception was something else. Gold and silver were the colors they had chosen, and Souta did not disappoint. From the yellow and white flowers on the tables to the silver and gold chiffon draped along the walls and across the ceiling of the hall, everything seemed to shimmer. The tables were covered in rose gold tablecloths. The silverware and plates were platinum silver. There was even a balloon arch at the entryway, with nickel and brass shades.
“There’s no way you did most of this,” Nao commented, gazing in wonder.
Just as I described, Nao thought as his eyes watered for the umpteenth time that day. Different tones but all in pairs. Souta really did listen.
“Of course I didn’t do most of it!” Souta retorted, displeased with the remark. “And you look surprised. Why is that?”
Nao couldn’t contain the euphoria in his heart. He lifted Souta into the air and spun him around. But not for long. As soon as Souta’s feet were back on the ground, he pulled Souta into a long and sensual kiss.
When Nao opened his eyes, his husband looked completely enamoured. Pink cheeks, glazed eyes, slightly parted lips. Souta’s auburn hair had even broken free of its gel confinement. All the while the caramel honey eyes Nao loved more than anything stared back into his own. He nuzzled their noises, opting for one last peck before pulling away.
“It’s perfect,” Nao proclaimed.
Coming back to himself, Souta blushed and bit his lip. “All I did was choose the shades. Miyako really took care of everything. Keisuke dealt with scheduling. I really did nothing.”
Nao scoffed. “Do you really plan on using her given name going forward?”
It felt ridiculous, being jealous over Souta using the given name of someone he’s known for years. Someone that Nao had known even longer! But he just couldn’t help it.
Why did you have to become so close to someone you used to like?
“Come on!” Souta called, elbowing Nao’s side. “You should too. We’ve known her long enough. Besides,” he nodded towards the other side of the room where Miyako and Keisuke stood closely together, “She won't be Inoue-chan for much longer.”
“I found the newlyweds, Ren!”
The hall was still empty, save for the few family and friends that had offered to help decorate. Amongst them were Ren and Yuki, who had been tasked with transporting some last-minute things.
“Oh shit, here comes trouble,” Souta teased.
“Nice way of saying thanks for the help!” Yuki groaned at Souta.
“You really went all out, huh?” Nao said while studying the box.
“Seriously?” Yuki complained, pulling the box out of Nao’s reach. “You are just as bad as Souta. Don’t either of you know how to say thank you?”
“Now Chibi, no reason to get upset when it’s their special day.” Ren joined them, carrying two more boxes with similar items in them.
Before anyone could say a thing, Keisuke and Miyako were there, taking the boxes from them.
“Thank you again for grabbing these, Yuki-kun. I didn’t know anyone else with a car who could make it today.” Miyako smiled wide. “Oh!” she said, turning towards Nao and Souta. “I will give you two a proper congratulations later. It really was a beautiful ceremony.” And then she was gone.
“She does know the guests aren’t coming for another hour, right?” Ren asked as he passed his boxes to Keisuke.
“She does,” he smiled nervously. “Miyako just seems really into this whole wedding planner thing.”
“Maybe she just wanted the practice for her own,” Souta suggested, a knowing smirk on his lips.
Keisuke rolled his eyes and walked away. The back of his ears were clearly red. Souta and Yuki snickered.
“You shouldn’t pressure him,” Nao said, shaking his head.
“Me?!” Souta said in an innocent tone, that Nao was not buying. “I’m not pressuring him to decide, I’m pressing him to finally ask and get the ring that’s burning a hole in his pocket on her finger where it belongs.”
The talk of rings in pockets unnerved Nao, so he turned his attention to his friends instead. “Thank you both for the help. Really, it means a lot.”
“You’re welcomed, Nao.” Yuki strongly emphasized the name.
Souta rolled his eyes. “Of course, I appreciate your help, Yuki. I was just teasing. Let me have some fun.”
“Fun is his job, not mine,” Yuki said, jabbing his thumb toward Nao.
“Guys!” Miyako called from across the room. “The caterer is here. Can someone show them where to set up?”
“Got it,” Yuki answered, without a second thought. He was off and running.
“Oh, that I want to check on, too,” Souta said. He briskly kissed Nao’s cheek and hurried after their friend.
Nao was surprised by how at ease he was while watching them leave together.
“Someone is love struck,” Ren teased.
“You’d think I would be, given it’s my wedding.” Nao felt his face heat up as Ren chuckled. “I have to ask, what was up with the music?”
“Humm?” Ren stared across the room at nothing. “What music?”
“The music,” Nao growled, “that you were playing for the walk down the aisle.”
“Hey, you two chose it. I played it how it was meant to be played.” Ren’s devious smile said otherwise.
How it was meant to be played my ass! Nao huffed. “And when Souta purposely slowed down? You just happened to match his pace because…”
“I couldn’t let the man walk out of sync,” Ren teased.
Shaking his head, Nao could only smile. Any anger he may have normally had seemed so trivial. Like it didn’t matter how perfect or imperfect the day was. In the end all that mattered was they were together to celebrate.
“Nao!” A woman’s voice screamed in his ear as two thin arms wrapped about his shoulders. He turned to find his sister Emi beaming at him. “Congratulations!”
His cheeks flushed. “Thank you. I’m really happy you made it.”
Stepping back, he looked over his sister. Now a grown woman, Emi reminded him so much of their mother. He held her close for a moment, grateful she had come.
“I wouldn’t miss my little brother’s wedding!” Emi cheered, shoving his shoulder back hard. “Dad had to go, but he was at the ceremony.”
“Don’t worry, I spoke to him before hand too.” Nao smiled lightly. “Dad was never one for parties.”
“He’s happy for you,” Emi assured him. Tilting her head to see around Nao, she politely said, “Hey Ren. It’s been awhile.”
“A few years,” Ren nodded.
Emi smiled evilly. “I’ve heard a lot about you from Yuki-kun.”
“Wait.” Ren was suddenly startled. “You talk to Yuki now, too?”
“Too?” Emi asked, glancing at Nao.
“It’s a thing they have,” Nao explained. “They both hate sharing the other.”
“That’s not it at all!” Ren denied. His pouting face said otherwise.
“Emi!” a hyped-up Yuki yelled as he ran up and hugged her from behind. “I’m so happy to see you.”
Emi giggled. “We can’t say the same about your boyfriend.” She pointed to Ren who was staring off into some corner. “I guess you forgot to mention we met when helping with the wedding.”
Instantly Yuki abandoned them, dragging Ren off without saying a word.
“They do that often?” she asked.
“Unfortunately,” Nao confirmed.
“You finally found someone to talk to, hubby?” Souta whispered in Nao’s ear. Thick firm arms wrapped around his waist as Souta grabbed him from behind.
The initial touch made Nao jump. But his hands quickly found Souta’s, interlacing their fingers. Souta's chin rested on his shoulder.
“Hi Emi,” Souta hummed. “Thanks for coming.”
“Hello Souta,” she smiled. “You look very handsome.”
“Thanks,” Souta said cordially. “But only my husband's opinion matters.”
Nao rolled his eyes as his cheeks flushed. “You are going to call me that any chance you get, aren’t you?”
“Wasn’t that the point of this whole thing?” Souta pestered.
“I thought the point was the honeymoon,” Nao sneered, causing Souta to blush.
“Oh! Where are you going for your honeymoon?” Emi asked. Nao knew the subject of travel excited her.
“Ah, I still don’t know. I was in charge of the wedding and this handsome fellow” —Souta squeezed Nao’s waist— “has kept the honeymoon tightly under wraps.”
“Nao keeping a secret, who would have thought.” Emi provoked.
“Alright, enough.” Nao cried. When the two finally stopped teasing him, Nao heard the faint sound of voices coming from outside. “The guests are starting to arrive. We should get ready to greet them.” Nao pulled Souta’s arms off of him.
“Do we have to?” Souta whined like a child. He refused to let go. “I don’t wanna. Can I at least hold you like this while we do?” Souta pouted, his eyes going round.
“When did you become so needy?” Nao couldn’t help but chuckle. He’s such a kid around me and I love it.
“Since I married you,” Souta answered.
Nao could only laugh. “Then I’ll just have to spoil you later. Now come on.”
—------------------------------
Preparations were complete. The guests were all seated and waiting. Even the DJ was eager to get started. But Souta was not.
“I still really don’t want to,” Souta mumbled. He was trying not to sulk but was failing miserably. Today was so full of emotions, it didn’t matter if they were good or bad, Souta was showing them all.
“Come on, we took dancing lessons for a reason,” Nao gently reminded him. His persuasion wasn’t working.
They were peeking through the main entrance to the hall, waiting for Souta’s nerves to calm. He couldn’t help staring at the small spot of open dance floor between the main and guests’ tables. His heart was racing in his chest.
Is that area even big enough for us to spin in? What if I hit someone. Gahh, I know I’m gonna fuck this up some how!
The touch of Nao’s warm hand on his shoulder calmed Souta slightly. Nao smiled, cupping both of Souta’s cheeks, pulling his eyes away from the floor. “You really don’t want to dance with me?”
“We don’t need to dance dance, right?”
“Sure, and we won’t bother kiss kiss while we are at it,” Nao taunted. But when Souta continued to sulk, lightly biting his lower, Nao pulled him into a tight hug. “I’ll be right there the whole time!” Nao assured him. “Besides, you’re supposed to be focused on me today. Only me!”
Before Souta could argue further, the DJ announced their arrival. Entangling their hands, Nao wore the most satisfied smile Souta had ever seen. Caving, he walked through the doors with his husband.
All eyes turned and watched them closely as they moved to the dancefloor. The lights then dimmed, a spotlight landing on them both.
“This is almost as bad as that damn walk,” Souta grumbled.
“Speaking of which,” Nao said, spinning Souta around so they faced one another, “I noticed you slowed your pace a little.”
Souta allowed himself a grin. “What can I say, I wanted to make you sweat a little.”
It was pretty commonplace for Nao to get more attention when they were together. But the amount of attention Souta was getting tonight was too much. He was overwhelmed with embarrassment and fear of being judged.
Nao sighed. “Well, consider this your pay back from making me sweat it out.
“Fine,” Souta moped. “It was worth it though.”
They kissed lightly.
Nao took a few steps away from Souta before turning around and offering him his hand.
I can’t believe I allowed him to convince me to do this. Souta’s thoughts spiraled. It’s one thing when you’re so good looking no one notices your mistakes. It's another when they are constantly looking for them!
The music started playing and Souta was drawn back to one of his favorite memories, his second visit to Nao’s home. They weren’t even friends. And the boy who was meant to be the love of his life played this very song for him. Even sang it for him.
He’d be damned if he didn’t give Nao this dance.
Taking Nao’s hand, Souta was pulled forward. Nao spun him around, grabbed his waist with one arm and dipped him slightly.
There was an odd murmur from the crowd.
“Shall we?” Nao asked in such a sensual voice, Souta temporarily forgot they weren't alone.
Souta’s arm slid behind Nao’s back. Their right hands clasped together. Soon they were dancing to their song.
The easiest part about the wedding planning had to have been picking their song. Stand by Me held so much meaning for them both. It was how their friendship started. How their relationship grew. Why they were there that very day, dancing for all the world to see. They had been by each other’s sides when they needed it most and planned to be there for each other for the rest of their lives. It was only right they start their next chapter together with the same song they started their last.
The dance was choreographed by a friend of Emi’s who had offered to teach them the moves. It had been her present for their wedding. Nao had been shockingly elated by the gift and was determined to make use of it. Given Nao had little to no involvement in the actual wedding planning itself, save for picking the overall theme and coloring, Souta figured it was the one thing he could give him.
So, when the man of his dreams, who was now officially his husband, started to lead him through the simple one-two movements, Souta followed graciously. Their movements were smooth, like they had practiced. The steps were short but precise. Their hips swayed as they moved. That, combined with Nao’s intoxicating smile, overwhelmed all of Souta’s senses.
He forgot the crowd was there. All he could see were the depths of Nao’s eyes. All he could feel was the sensations of Nao’s soft touch.
The spotlight on them helped in a way. Only when he was spun out of its circle did Souta remember his family and friends were watching. All he saw was amazed and surprised faces.
“Maybe this isn’t so bad,” Souta muttered, as they came back together, their palms flat against each other’s.
“Hey, it’s how we feel that matters.” Nao twisted Souta around.
Souta’s arms crossed over his chest, his back to Nao while they held hands and stepped lightly from side to side. “And you, my husband,” the words whispered in Souta’s ear caused his heart to race, cheeks to flush, and head to swoon, “seem to be enjoying yourself.”
“I won’t lie,” Souta answered while he spun back to face Nao. “This is fun.”
It was Souta’s turn to spin Nao, though far less dramatically than the ones he had taken himself. As the song came to its close, Souta found himself inches from Nao’s face. Their bodies were pressed tightly together, his hand on Nao’s right shoulder, Nao’s on his left hip, their other hands clasped tightly. As the music faded into silence, all that existed was the two of them, under the spotlight, standing breathlessly in each other’s arms.
When Nao’s eyes began to flutter shut, Souta followed his lead, and they ended their dance with a kiss.
The spotlight was turned off and the room lit up around them. Their friends and family were standing and applauding as the DJ once again announced them.
Souta caved into Nao’s chest, laughing. He was in utter shock, unable to believe what he had just done. “I can’t believe we pulled that off!”
“Still worse than walking the carpet?” Nao teased.
Time slowing for a beat, Souta was left face to face with his blushing, winded and zealous husband. There was a warmth in his eyes like Souta had never seen before. He was enchanting to say the least.
“If it meant being with you,” Souta stated resolutely, “I would do both again in a heartbeat.”
—------------------------------
After their first dance, the blushing couple took their seats as their meals were about to be served. Having opted to forgo the traditional wedding party, Nao and Souta sat alone at the head table. It was set up on a short stage so they would be slightly higher than their guests. In front of them lay ten large round tables where their family and friends sat.
The meal was delicious. Having let Keisuke and Miyako help with the planning, the decision to use traditional symbolic dishes was made. The main dish was Sekihan and Unagi, red rice cooked with adzuki beans paired with grilled eel, symbolizing happiness, good fortune, strength and resilience. There were several random side dishes, one alternative main and for dessert was matcha flavored Mochi; one of Nao’s favorite treats.
Mochi and Unagi? He definitely catered this meal to me. Nao sighed with a fondness that could only be described as love.
“I feel like there wasn’t anything you particularly liked on the menu,” Nao commented as he gladly took the Mochi Souta offered.
Souta tried not to giggle. “I wasn’t worried about what I wanted when I picked, I guess.” Souta smiled fondly as he watched Nao enjoying the food.
Annoyed, Nao flicked his forehead. “It’s hard to eat when you won’t stop staring.”
“But you’re so incredibly handsome tonight,” Souta said seductively. “And you can’t stop smiling. Why would I ever look away?”
Souta’s eyes flickered to Nao’s lips for a moment, making Nao's heart skip a beat. Returning the adoring stare, Nao ran his fingers along the back of Souta’s ear, tucking away the few strands of the soft auburn hair that had managed to get away. A strong pull formed between them, their gazes flickering between staring into the others eyes and looking longingly at their lips.
There was a slight ding on a glass. Looking up, Nao noticed Yuki was standing, clinking his glass with his fork, a western tradition symbolizing the guests' wish for the newlywed couple to kiss. Soon the room around them was filled with the clinking sound, several other people also standing. All in an attempt to spur them on.
There was a slight tug on Nao’s chin as Souta brought his attention back to where it needed to be. Their lips touched lightly, and the crowd cheered. Souta moved to deepen the kiss, eliciting several whistles from their friends and forcing Nao to push Souta back a bit. Not that he didn’t want to go further, just not in public.
Instead, Souta pulled Nao into a tight embrace, leaving loving pecks along Nao’s neck and chin, where the crowd could not see.
Nao could honestly say he never imagined things would work out the way they did. That after all the mistakes he had made, the miscommunication that tormented them both, that Souta would still want to be with him. To love him. Cherish him.
Almost all couples call their wedding a dream. But that was the point of a wedding, wasn’t it? To celebrate the dream of spending the rest of their lives together. Nao was determined to enjoy every second of it.
But when it came time for the speeches, he wasn’t so sure he’d be able to.
“I haven’t known Nao and Souta as long as most of you,” Yuki said, a wide smile crossing his lips. “But I am almost positive I have more stories about these idiot’s and their love struggles than most of you.” The crowd chuckled lightly. “However, there is one in particular that I want to share.”
“He’s determined to tell the world,” Nao groaned, hiding his face in his arms.
“It’s your fault for telling him,” Souta teased.
“If I hadn’t, you would have,” Nao pointed out.
“Probably, but I didn’t,” Souta pointed out. “So, this is on you.”
With a bright natural smile, Yuki proudly declared, “I was with Nao the day he bought the proposal ring for Souta.”
There was a murmur in the crowd.
“Ha, you two really didn’t say anything to most people, huh?” Yuki whispered back to them. “This is going to be awesome!”
Why am I his friend? How am I his friend? Is this really how friends are? Nao severely questioned his own judgement.
Yuki cleared his throat and continued. “Well, the tiny box that held that ring stayed in his pocket for months. He couldn’t decide when or where to ask. I honestly thought his cold feet would last forever.”
Nao called out, “It wasn’t cold feet!” causing the crowd to giggle.
“I didn’t know you had the ring for months,” Souta gleefully whispered into Nao’s ear.
He only groaned in response.
“And then one particular night on what seemed like a random day, Souta took him on a fantastical date, or so I’m told. If you aren’t aware, these two have a thing with watching the stars together. Souta had rented an observatory for just the two of them. And there, under the stars that were projected around them, Nao finally got down on one knee.”
Nao couldn’t help furrowing his brow and hiding his eyes. Souta suddenly stood, one of his brightest smiles on his face, and gestured for Yuki to pass him the mic. The man did so, a horrible mocking grin across his face.
“And I turned around,” Souta explained, “overcome with joy and love at a level of happiness I cannot explain.”
“You didn’t seem very happy at the time,” Nao moped.
Souta ran his hand through Nao’s hair. “I might have screamed a little bit.”
“A little bit?!” Nao stood up now yelling. “You ripped me a new one.”
“You stole my perfect proposal!”
“You could have just proposed yourself!”
“While you knelt in front of me, ring in hand?”
“It’s not like I knew!”
“No, you didn’t, that was the point! But it took months to plan that…”
“Souta…” Nao took the mic from him. “We both wanted the same thing, that’s what matters.”
Souta grabbed Nao’s hand, pulling the mic back to his face. “And I have since decided I will not surprise him with anything else, ever again.”
The guests laughed, several yelling things he could not hear.
“I doubt you’ll keep that promise.” Nao sighed. He kissed Souta’s forehead. “Your impulsiveness is just one of many things I love about you. And you,” Nao rounded on Yuki, passing him back the mic. “No more embarrassing stories.”
Yuki took the mic back and whispered. “Oh, you thought that was embarrassing? I have many more…”
Ren popped up out of nowhere. Taking the mic from Yuki, he softly pulled the man aside. “Sorry babe,” he said in a hushed voice only the four of them could hear. “We agreed, I’m the one who gets to embarrass Souta.”
Souta’s face turned a pale white. Concerned, Nao guided his husband back to his seat and whispered. “What could he possibly say that would make you lose your color?” But Souta was too stunned to answer.
“Many of you might not know this,” Ren spoke in a loud and deep voice. “But I was friends with Nao for a short period in middle school,” Ren looked over at Souta teasingly. “Well, more than friends.”
Souta groaned, his face going red.
“That still bothers you?” Nao whispered.
“No,” Souta whispered back. “But he’s not going to be talking about the present, is he?”
This made Nao wonder what he didn’t know about Ren and Souta’s relationship. Had he been more jealous than Nao knew? Was there more to the story than either of them had bothered to tell him?
“When I returned to Japan and managed to end up in the same class as these two idiots, I thought my luck in life had finally changed, and that I would be able to rekindle my lost friendship. And friendship is all I ever wanted.” Ren made it very clear. “But it ends up that it wasn't my fate at work, but theirs. The two of them were still pussy footing around each other, afraid to admit their true feelings.”
A few chuckles escaped the crowd.
“So, I might have given them a little nudge. First with Nao. He seemed to think that Souta couldn’t possibly like him. You’d think the guy had never looked in a mirror.”
Nao felt his face flush as there were murmurs of agreement. Souta was back to staring at him longingly. For a moment Nao got lost in the honey yellow highlights of the caramel irises he loved almost as much as the man they belonged to.
“Then Souta!” Ren declared loudly, causing the couple to jump. “He felt they were too different for one another. That he’d never be able to sit at Nao’s side. That he’d never choose him. Little did he know Nao had only ever had eyes for him.”
“A little encouragement for them to be honest with themselves and each other went a long way. So, here we are today! Years later. Not only are they together, but they are pledging themselves to each other for life.”
Ren turned around, a warmth in his eyes that filled Nao’s chest. “I hope you know you two are meant to be together. If you ever forget that, come speak to me. I will always remind you of how strong your love truly is.”
There were cheers of agreement as the room toasted to the blushing couple.
“Did you really think I was gonna tell everyone how irrationally jealous of me you were when I returned?” Ren teased while he waited to pass the mic on.
Souta only managed to roll his eyes, cheeks reddening further.
“I left the embarrassing story for Keisuke to tell.” Ren laughed heartily as he left the stage.
Souta looked almost panicked. Nao was sure it wasn’t nearly that bad but understood the fear his husband was feeling. Taking Souta’s hands in his own, he squeezed them lightly. Though Souta still shook, the man was more grounded.
Keisuke smiled at the two of them as he took the spotlight. “I’m honestly not sure where to start. Maybe we should talk about the way that Nao’s eyes tracked Souta’s every movement in our first year of highschool. Or Souta’s obsession with Nao at the beginning of our second year.”
A few voices agreed from the crowd, several calling out other all telling signs the couple had missed.
“How Nao only ever started conversations with Souta!”
“Souta making everything between them a competition!”
“Nao joining the soccer club to be around Souta more.”
“Oh yes!” Keisuke confirmed. “And the soccer camp in second year! After a few bad days and some really bad plays, Souta disappeared into the woods. Nao was the first one to run out to find him.”
“Wait, what?” Souta turned to Nao, surprised. “I didn’t know that. I thought everyone was looking for me.”
It wasn’t on purpose that Nao never told Souta. He just didn’t think it was a big deal. Plus, given they were just barely friends, he had tried his best to hide any actions that would have been taken as more. “Guess I forgot to mention it.”
Keisuke looked at them both fondly. “No one had even thought of looking for you yet, when Nao just dropped everything and left on his own.”
The shocked look on Souta’s face seemed so alarming. Nao dropped his eyes to his plate. “Well, yes. But when I heard you were missing, I just panicked.”
“You were gone for a good hour, too.” Keisuke’s voice echoed through the mic.
The crowd whistled tauntingly.
“Come on! We were barely friends then!” Souta complained.
“Friends? I doubt you two were ever really friends.” Keisuke chuckled. “But the care and devotion you have shown for each other from the very beginning make it clear how much you truly mean to each other.”
It was always an odd revelation, when reminiscing about their time as friends only pointed out how clearly they liked each other, even then. Nao had to admit, they had been idiots as teens. But he would go through it all again, if it meant they would be together.
“I am so happy for you both,” Keisuke continued. “That you’ve found love with each other. That you have family and friends who support you. That you made it through the hardships you’ve had, cause you have had quite a few, and only become stronger. I truly believe you belong together and can make it through whatever this life throws at you.” Keisuke turned to Nao. “Take care of my best friend. If he ever gets out of hand, give me a call. I will set him straight.”
Nao’s face was starting to be sore from how wide he was smiling. But he didn’t mind. The words of their families and friends meant everything. Their support spurred him on.
The support of his loved ones gave Nao the confidence and determination to provide his husband with the happiness and love he rightly deserved.
—------------------------------
After all that, a few family members spoke. Souta’s mom ended up in tears before she was even able to say a word. Nao's sister mentioned a few things from Nao’s early childhood that Souta was not aware of. And when the speeches were done, the hall was cleared. The tables and chairs were pushed off to the side to allow the party to truly begin. But before they joined in, the married couple found their way to a quiet spot outside under the moonlight.
Souta was nervous. All he wanted from that night was for Nao to enjoy himself. At the moment, all he saw was the indifferent face Nao wore when he was thinking.
“Enjoying yourself so far?” Souta asked, hesitantly.
With a sly smile, Nao nodded. “Yes, I am. The best day of my life, actually.”
Souta couldn’t help but beam. “I am so glad. I was worried something wasn’t to your taste and—”
“You really put a lot of effort into this, huh?”
It was surprising to be cut off by Nao. In an attempt to help stop Souta from spiralling when in doubt, Nao had taken to cutting him off and changing the subject. Diverting his thoughts was really helping.
“I did,” he admitted. “I wanted it to be your perfect day.”
Nao hummed in agreement, holding out his arms. “But it’s our perfect day.”
Souta nodded, accepting the offered hug.
“I’ve always thought you were too bright for this world,” Nao muttered. “You don’t know how lucky I feel that of all people, you decided to shine on me.”
“And if not for you reflecting that light back at me, I would have never seen how truly bright I can be,” Souta chimed. “You give me purpose.”
“As you bring me hope.”
A lightness spread from his heart, to his chest, and throughout Souta’s whole body. He was elated. There was no way to describe everything he was feeling right then.
“I love you, Nao,” slipped from his lips without a conscious thought.
“I love you too, Souta,” Nao responded in kind, also never hesitating.
They pulled each other into a kiss. It was long, sensual and so enticing. Souta struggled to let go as Nao gently pulled away.
“We better join our party,” Nao huffed, obviously disappointed.
“Do we have to? I know you want to stay here just as much as I do.” Souta whined.
“That, I do,” Nao said, squeezing Souta’s waist. “But we have a lifetime together now and only this one night with everyone at once.”
He couldn’t help scowling. “I hate it when you’re the sensible one.”
“Aren’t I always the sensible one?” Nao joked.
“You wish!” Souta laughed.
Nao suddenly wore a firm stare.
Shit, did that piss him off? Souta suddenly panicked. He knows it was a joke, right?
Souta parted his lips in an attempt to explain. But with a quick pull on his wrist, Nao embraced him again, their mouths latching once more. The intensity was deeper, faster, and rougher than the kisses Souta had been pursuing all day.
When Nao finally pulled away, his eyes burned with lust and want. Souta was left breathless.
Nao chuckled. “You’ll have me alone soon enough. Now, love of my life. Let’s show them how truly smitten we are.”
Fingers interlaced, eyes locked, they entered the room and the next chapter of their lives, together.