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Early spring was known for its chilly air, exactly as it was today. Although the sun had already started to melt the remaining snow, the wind was still cold. But for a short walk on the weekend, this type of weather was quite pleasant, especially with a promise of hot tea at the end and well spent time with a friend.
Akane was unhurriedly walking, passing house after house. Despite his slow pace, which could suggest a state of relaxation, he was a bit stressed. He clenched a bag with groceries: chocolate, dried fruit and some other things. He bought everything he promised to, but was still worried he might’ve forgotten something. It wasn’t the first time when he worried over such a trivial thing, but today was special. Akane was sure that he would have managed to take care of it himself, but the outcome must be perfect. He must be perfect. But in this area he knew someone who was better than him and, more importantly, willing to help him.
Minamoto Kou was a brilliant cook and Akane could trust him not to sabotage this. This is why he was meeting up with Kou today and currently walking to his house. Luckily the pride of Minamoto family, Teru, wasn’t home today. This might even be enjoyable. Akane was ready to put some work into perfect valentine chocolates, even if it meant spending few hours making them. Obviously he wasn’t preparing them for himself. They were meant for Ao-chan.
Probably.
Probably? Since when he was faltering in his feelings for her? Since when he wasn’t sure whether he’s doing something solely for her and possibly for her smile? Ao-chan… she was the greatest joy in his life, the best thing that happened in it! She was sweet and kind, beautiful and nice, the most perfect girl in the world… and she rejected his feelings everyday. Sometimes even few times a day. No, no. He shook his head and reminded himself to focus on his goal. Winning her heart, even when it meant trying and trying for few more years. He can endure that… right?
When Akane finally arrived at Minamoto’s house, he needed a moment to compose himself and take a deep breath. Younger Minamoto wasn’t as unkind as his older brother. Akane slowly raised his hand and rang the doorbell. Quite a nice sound. It was kind of weird how he hadn't visited this house earlier considering how much time he spent with their school's Student Council President.
He was pulled out of his thoughts by the sound of doors opening and a greeting from a widely smiling boy. Akane smiled a little himself.
“Hi, Aoi-senpai. Come inside, it's cold today,” said Minamoto. “Maybe you want some tea? I’m already freezing, just standing in the door frame for a second” he laughed, not really looking cold. He was probably just trying to be friendly, as could be suggested by offering a hot drink.
“Hello, sorry for intruding,” Akane greeted as he went inside and closed the door. “I’d love some tea, especially hot,” he answered and took off his shoes. It was kind of nice when someone wanted to do something for you to lower your discomfort or just make you feel better. Hopefully the warm and fuzzy feeling inside Akane wasn’t a sign of something new and possibly problematic and hopefully it was just a sign of getting warmer.
“Thank you, kouhai,” Akane said as a thanks for the tea offer and a pair of slippers that Minamoto just gave him. But the blond boy was already heading to the kitchen, probably not even listening. Perhaps being this friendly was just a norm for him, and he didn’t expect anything in return. Or maybe Akane’s view was just skewed because it was mostly him who tried in the most important relationship in his life.
Akane took off his coat and the rest of warm outerwear and looked around the hallway. It was pretty cozy here and the atmosphere was amazing thanks to a bit more traditional decor. But it was quite obvious that Minamoto family was well off. After a moment he followed younger Minamoto to the kitchen, finally having a chance to put down the bag with groceries. Now’s the time to check whether he forgot something.
“Minamoto-kouhai, do we have everything we need?” Akane asked indirectly to get some help with unpacking, because he noticed that the blonde had some type of system which organized everything for today’s chocolate making session. He watched as Minamoto took everything he wanted to unpack and organized it neatly. Akane should take notes. Was it just pure talent and instinct?
“Yes, we have everything we need and more, senpai. We can make a lot of different chocolates,” Minamoto replied, visibly happy to make something, laughing softly. So he really liked cooking and it wasn’t only a chore. Akane had to admit that Minamoto’s laughter was quite nice to the ear. After this thought he had to slap himself mentally. What was he thinking? Akane was in love with Ao-chan and Minamoto Kou was a boy. It’s not that Akane believed that two boys couldn’t be together, but he wasn’t gay… right? He looked uncertainly at the blond boy, who was still smiling widely. “You prepared perfectly, good job. And I’m not gonna complain that I didn’t have to go to the supermarket myself,” added the blonde, lightly patting the back of the older boy.
Akane again felt that warm feeling inside his chest. That was weird. As weird as a slightly hot feeling on his cheeks. “Obviously I’m prepared. I’ll do anything for Ao-chan. I’d give the whole world to her,” he declared. He was definitely sure of his words. Any previous uncertainties were just a moment of stupidity or maybe a sign of a flu coming. Yes, that had to be it.
Minamoto raised his eyebrow slightly. “Whole world, huh?” he said, a bit sceptical. He took his apron off the hook and put it on.
Choosing not to comment, Akane only rolled his eyes in disapproval. He scanned all the ingredients, noting where everything was and he could ask to borrow. Because obviously he believed in sharing his in favour of more diverse chocolates.
Minamoto went closer to his senpai and looked over his shoulder. “Have you decided on what combos of flavours you want to make or should I suggest you some? Of course improvisation is also a great idea. Who knows what can come out of it?” He asked, visibly planning his own chocolates. By the amount of chocolate and add-ons to them, Akane could guess that his younger friend would be making valentine chocolates for a lot of people.
“I might have some idea what I want to make. I know that I need to make at least some with raspberries of some kind,” Akane started his thought.
“Oh! We could make some kind of cream or mousse to put inside!” Minamoto chimed in excitedly. “I know how to do both of these, so… would you want to try?” Akane didn’t even know that the boy was so talented. Also that was a great idea, so he nodded.
But now the dreaded moment has arrived. Akane had to take out the mould that was best suited to Ao-chan’s tastes. Mould for making sweets in the shape of cartoon sharks.
“That’s such a cool mould! Can I make some shark-chocolates for Teru-nii?” the younger boy eagerly asked. His eyes were almost sparkling. That was kinda cute. Akane slapped himself mentally… again.
“Yeah, sure. That’s fine. But I want to use some of your moulds. Hearts and flowers preferably,” Akane agreed, but also used it to have equal exchange. He didn’t bring more moulds than this one. Especially that younger Minamoto told him he would lend him his moulds.
“I already told you, use whatever you need,” Minamoto replied and started preparing some bowls and saucepans to start making mousses and preparing other ingredients. “It’s time to get to work.” He clapped his hands and thought for a moment what each of them should do. “So we’ll start with chopping some fruits and nuts. I’ll move to making creams at some point.”
“That’s fine by me. You’re the chef here,” Akane replied lightly and winked at him, which made the younger boy blush a bit.
After that they worked in relative silence, meaning no talking. Minamoto played some songs so they would hum as background noise. They were just some popular radio songs, nothing really outstanding. The silence between them was less awkward because of them. Or perhaps it was just their focus that made it more natural to be quiet.
Suddenly Akane heard a quiet ‘clink’ next to him. A cup full of warm tea. “Here, I didn’t ask you what type you’d like because I wanted you to try this one. It’s really good, but not really available. I made it with some honey, so you won’t get sick.” He smiled warmly. It was the kind of smile that could steal hearts. “And if it won’t suit your taste, I’ll make something you choose. I added a bit of cold water, so you can drink it now,” Minamoto added and went back to work.
Akane forgot he wanted Tea. But his kouhai remembered. Was it really that important to him to make sure the older boy won’t get sick? They don’t even know each other that well. It felt nice to be remembered. To have your needs and requests fulfilled even when you yourself forget about them. The warm feeling was back and stronger than before. “Thank you.” The tea was absolutely amazing. He smiled to himself.
Later, when some time have passed, Minamoto broke the silence “I think everything is ready,” he said, proudly showing what he made. “We only need to let everything cool down a bit. Maybe you want some snacks? I prepared a few things so we could eat them while we’re taking a break.”
“That… would be nice,” Akane replied, a bit shocked. Minamoto thought about everything. Tea, snacks, organization of everything. Akane only had to follow and nod. A nice change compared to always having to be the one planning and preparing.
Akane expected that he would be pressured into having awkward conversation, but instead he got a very interesting monologue from Kou about making chocolates and generally about baking. It was very pleasant to listen to him talk so passionately. Akane didn’t even notice when he started smiling, his head resting on his hand, and looking at the blonde boy. He also didn’t notice when said boy started blushing a bit.
“I guess we could… go back to the kitchen and… finish our chocolates,” the blond said, visibly a bit flustered.
This time their jobs were similar to before. Minamoto was working with saucepans, meanwhile Akane’s job was to chop. Unlike before, instead of nuts and fruits, he was cutting chocolate. The room was getting pleasantly warm again, and filled with delicious aromas. Younger boy was skilfully mixing chocolate, melting slowly with the use of a water bath. It was important not to burn the chocolate.
“I see you’re quite experienced in making chocolates. I’m guessing you’re making them a lot, huh?” Akane asked with a hint of curiosity in his voice. Sudden question made Minamoto jump a little. He was so focused on his work that he forgot about the guest.
“Maybe? It’s mostly for valentines or sometimes when Tiara or Teru ask me to. But it’s not that often, really,” Minamoto replied, shrugging his shoulders and still watching the bowl. Probably all the experience was from working with chocolate, not exclusively from making chocolates.
“Have you ever made them for a girl? You know, to make her fall for you a little?” There was another question from Akane. Younger Minamoto would definitely be as handsome as his older brother, when he grows up a bit, Akane was sure of that. Maybe he already caught someone’s eye? Good at cooking, family oriented, kind, handsome with a beautiful, warm smile… he would make a perfect partner and even better husband.
Younger boy shuddered a little, then sent his senpai a shy glance. He didn’t have any experience in a relationship of this kind. Only girls he gave chocolates to were from his family. “I don’t have a girlfriend, and I don’t think any girl will be interested in me currently,” he laughed awkwardly, trying to make this, embarrassing for him, topic a bit less bearable. But he was already blushing visibly, his face trying to match his earring.
Akane raised an eyebrow, but decided not to push the topic further. It was not the time for this and he didn’t come here to tease the boy. He went back to work, not even resisting a small smile while doing so. He didn’t know why, but those valentines could be… interesting. Maybe today made it a bit more special? Making chocolates with someone who you… like? Did he like younger Minamoto? He could say so. The boy was warm like a sun, shining with excitement, but also very easy to tease delicately.
The chocolate was beautifully melted and ready to be tempered so it would get hard and shiny. Already done with his work, Akane wanted to try it, but the bowl and chocolate was definitely too hot to do so. So instead he focused on the mousses. He took some of the raspberry one on his finger and tasted it. It was truly delicious. Akane wouldn’t be able to do it better than that. He even missed the look that Minamoto gave him.
“If you start eating it, we won’t have enough to make the chocolates you wanted, Aoi-senpai,” he said as a warning. Akane wasn’t planning on eating it all, so he just shrugged and left the bowl alone. But he’ll definitely go back to it when they finish making everything. He’ll be taking a spoon or just licking off this bowl clean.
“I’m just testing the quality, chef,” Akane laughed and the blonde boy joined in right away.
“Yeah, sure,” the boy said joyfully, but was suddenly surprised with a finger in front of his face with some other mousse on it. He tried it, absolutely oblivious to the scene. It turned out amazing. He could eat it by itself. Akane was enraptured by how the boy was basically glowing with happiness. It was a beautiful sight. The warm feeling was back again. That boy was cute and Akane couldn’t resist him at this moment. So he looked until there was time to prepare chocolates.
“Do you have an idea how to pack them?” Minamoto asked while they were filling the moulds with tempered chocolate. He was trying to start the conversation this time. Maybe to not be surprised again? The blond tilted his head in Akane’s direction.
“Yes. I’ve got a beautiful box. Red with gold ribbon and slots for chocolates inside,” Akane replied. He was hopeful that the person that will get this box… wait. Person? Why was he so generic suddenly? He had a person because of which he was here currently. He was doing all this for Ao-chan. Why the uncertainty? “Do you have someone other than family who you wanna gift those chocolates to?” He asked the boy next to him, trying to escape from his own thoughts. But that just put the other one into thoughts.
“Maybe?~” He said after a moment, smiling at Akane, again looking like the sun. The hard topic was back, harder than before. Did Akane want to give his best chocolates to the sun? But that would definitely melt his whole worldview.
“What’s with the mysteriousness?” he asked, trying to change the topic again, so the sun wouldn’t destroy him.
“It’s just…” Minamoto shrugged. “Not everyone is so sure of who they want and what they feel towards someone. Is it just a friendship or do I want to give them ‘my whole world’, you know?” he answered, scratching his neck anxiously. Akane wasn’t so sure now either. He didn’t even know how to answer. Should he suggest some advice? But what advice could a man who spent all his time trying to gain approval from a girl give? The kitchen went quiet.
“Maybe… not the whole world, but you could try giving that special someone a small part at first,” he finally said something. It was good enough. But he also should follow his own advice, right? That would be harder.
Minamoto smiled a little. “You really know a thing or two about love, Aoi-senpai,” he said softly, blushing a little. He looked at Akane and probably saw something, because he went closer and wiped off a bit of cream that was still on Akane’s face. That made the older boy blush a little. What was this strange feeling again? Why was he feeling that? But it just felt nice to spend time with the blond. Akane couldn't remember the last time he had so much fun while doing something in the kitchen. Most of the time it was just a place to prepare necessary food or sometimes treats for Ao-chan.
Nonetheless the fuzzy feeling wasn’t something that he should be feeling next to this boy. It was supposed to be reserved for Ao-chan only. But suddenly something changed, his feelings becoming confusing. Akane turned his head away, trying to ignore everything that was happening inside him. “Why did you do that?” He asked.
“Was I supposed to just leave you with that stolen raspberry cream on your face?” Minamoto asked and giggled. “How could I leave my Student Council's Vice President looking like a mess?” He made some excuse which made Akane roll his eyes. Sure, that was exactly why the younger boy did that. To uphold his reputation in school outside of it. Regardless of if Akane believed this, he still smiled softly. He just felt light right now. Has he ever felt that light next to Ao-chan? He was usually stressed about how he can impress her this time and hopefully get a better score.
“We'll let the chocolates cool down and then we can decorate” said the younger boy and started cleaning up some things. He gave the bowl with raspberry mousse to Akane, winking at him. There was a bit left, so Akane won't complain about it. But the blonde wasn't joining in snacking. He was preparing sprinkles, organising chopped fruits, and all different things to make those chocolates even more special. Akane felt bad a bit about not helping, but when he tried, he only got the next bowl with different leftover mousse to lick clean, so he only watched as Minamoto reheated chocolate and prepared small piping bags to help them make small patterns easier.
“You really think of everything, when it comes to cooking, huh?” Akane asked, smiling. He didn't let the boy answer, because when he tried, Akane put a teaspoon with mousse on it in his mouth. ”I shouldn't be the only one eating leftovers, you know?” The boy only laughed a bit and joined for a moment.
The decorating went a little chaotic. They bumped into each other a few times, mostly with their hands, trying to grab the one thing at the same time. But that didn't lead to tension, awkwardness or arguments. It only led to more laughter and some tips from the younger boy on how to successfully attach something to the chocolates without ruining them.
“You're really being patient with those decorations, Minamoto-kouhai” Akane said lightly, seeing the boy gluing sugar balls one by one to the chocolate. It was admirable how he put so much heart for people important to him. And he did it because he loved to do it, that was clear.
“That’s just giving attention to the details,” the blonde replied, still focused on what he was doing. Akane kinda hoped that he could get at least one chocolate that the boy did. The only downside would be having to eat this adorable masterpiece. Sometimes you just wish that you could keep something short lasting forever. Was he still talking about that chocolate?
“Okay, master confectioner, show me more of your tricks,” he chimed in, looking over the shorter boy’s shoulder. Akane wanted to watch closely for a bit how he works. He was so quick and precise, probably mastering decorating small things a long time ago. Akane spent the last evening scrolling the Internet, trying to find inspiration for how he wanted small desserts to look. But Minamoto looked like he was just naturally coming up with ideas and trying them. Also, why was the younger one pink on the cheeks again? Was he really that shy? Or perhaps he was so easily teased that Akane’s words also made him flustered? Maybe it had something to do with Akane being his senpai?
The blonde took one of the undecorated chocolates and brought it to Akane’s lips. “Try one”, he said, visibly more flustered. “We should check if they came out good, Aoi-senpai.” The chocolate was delicious and well made. Chocolate was crunchy and the filling was creamy and a little sour, perfectly balancing the sweet outer shell. Those chocolates came out even better than perfect. They were quiet for a moment, until Minamoto decided to speak, “and? How is it?”.
“It’s absolutely delicious, Minamoto-kouhai. Ao-chan will for sure give me a better rating this time.” Why did he mention her? It’s not like he was thinking of her while decorating those chocolates. To be truthful he wanted nothing more than to stay here and eat those chocolates with the boy next to him. It was confusing, it was making him feel lost, almost like his head was spinning. He almost didn’t notice the weird, a bit hurt look on blond’s face.
“That’s… good” he replied, his eyes turning away from the older boy. It was a bit weird. Was Akane hearing something in his voice or was it just imagination? Because Minamoto loved Yashiro, right? Wasn’t that right? Wasn’t he planning to give her those chocolates? But Akane didn’t have much time to think before the younger boy went back to work, grabbing another chocolate.
Akane had a strange feeling about how this day might end.
When they finally finished packing their carefully crafted chocolates, they took a deep breath. They were both a bit tired after making sweets all day. Minamoto grabbed a bag and helped Akane pack his chocolates carefully, adding some padding between them so they don’t get destroyed. “Finally ready,” blond said. “I guess they came out pretty well.”
Akane looked at everything. It really came out amazing. It exceeded his expectations a lot. The chocolates were shiny, adorable and tasty. They were too perfect, just like today was too perfect. Something must go wrong at some point, right? Or maybe the bad feeling was just disappointment that the day was ending?
“They are absolutely flawless, kouhai. You really put your heart into them” Akane replied, even though he was a bit detached from the world at that moment. He was thinking about everything, what happened today.
Minamoto just shrugged and wiped his hands after washing them. “You wanted them perfect, right? So don’t belittle yourself. You also worked really hard to make them,” he said lightly and stretched.
“Yeah… I wanted them perfect,” Akane hesitated a bit and smiled at his friend. “But I’m not sure if I could have achieved this outcome myself, kouhai.” It was true. Without all the knowledge, skills and some of the gadgets it wouldn’t be that easy. The experience was also making a difference.
“And this is why asking for help is so important, senpai. Let people help you with things. You don’t have to be perfect in everything.” The sun was again destroying Akane, melting his defences. How was it that Minamoto was so easily teased and getting flustered, but at the same time so confident? His brother was considered ‘walking perfection’, how could he get over that? Was it just a facade? Or maybe the younger brother was really just a great human being with the sun as his soul. He was so warm and could make the world around him seem a little brighter. His motivation, determination… and he could make the atmosphere around him feel so light and carefree.
That was the problem.
This is why Akane didn’t want this day to end.
He wanted nothing more than to just stay in this house, in this kitchen. Taking his bag and going home like nothing ever happened, like the last few hours didn’t happen, that wasn’t an option anymore. He didn’t know what to think, what to do, what to say, how to act. Never in his life was he that lost as in this moment. Why was he thinking of his kouhai in that way? Why was his company suddenly so dear?
“Did something happen?” the younger boy asked. He definitely saw Akane’s expression and got worried. Because why was he suddenly upset? They successfully reached today’s goal and he was acting like a toddler that had to go back home from the playground.
“It’s just…” Akane swallowed and took a deep breath. “Do you think Ao-chan will like them?” He lied, sitting on the stool. He didn’t care about her opinion now. At least not much. He wanted Minamoto to try his sweets. The sun, who made Akane feel warm today, despite the cold weather outside. Why couldn’t he just put the boy's hand on his cheek and snuggle into it?
Minamoto furrowed his brows a bit, visibly thrown off the track. It looked like he didn’t believe Akane to some extent. Maybe he already saw through the liar’s facade? “Obviously. They're delicious and cute. But most importantly, you made them with love. If Akane-senpai won’t like them, I can eat them for her,” he said, laughing softly, trying to lighten the mood a little.
Akane just smiled weakly at him. He was again destroying his loyalty to Ao-chan. Why didn’t he notice the boy earlier? Did the cold moon conceal the warm sun? “Maybe you’re right. I’ll give them to you if she rejects them.”
Nodding a little, Minamoto sat in front of Akane, facing him. “Senpai… I might not be the best with emotions, but I can see that something's bothering you since we finished,” he said worried. “What’s happening? And I know this isn’t about Akane-senpai liking the chocolates,” blond added just as Akane was going to say something.
“It’s just…” He started, unsure of himself. Should he talk about it? Would he be a bother to his kouhai if he tells the truth? Maybe their friendship was still too young to talk so deeply? But he was asking so genuinely worried. Akane couldn't resist him. He looked uncertainly at the boy in front of him. Will he be able to convey it right? He really didn’t want to create a misunderstanding between them. “Sometimes it just feels like I lose myself focusing so much on Aoi. I stop seeing people and things around me,” he finally confessed.
“At first I couldn’t even see how fun it was to spend time with you, how nice it felt to be taken care of… you know, the tea, leftover raspberry mousse,” Akane said quietly. He felt his cheeks getting warmer. Why was it so embarrassing to talk about such trivial things?
The boy waited patiently as his senpai talked, listening attentively, letting him finish his thought, before speaking. The sun was also definitely getting warmer, his red cheeks clearly being a hint for that. “Thank you, senpai. That means I was a great host to you, right?” He said, scratching his neck. “And to be truthful, I wanted to make something with someone closer for a long time”, Minamoto said even quieter. Maybe it was a reminder for cooking with his mom? Akane knew of Minamoto's family situation. But it’s not his place to ask. At least he also gave him pleasant time and new, sweet memories, right?
For a moment there was complete silence. No songs in the background, no humming of the stove, no clinking of spoons and bowls. But it wasn’t awkward silence. Again, this was this nice type of silence when you just enjoy each other’s company. It felt warm and you could feel like anything you confess won’t be judged.
Akane grabbed his bag with chocolates and stood up. It was time to go home. He couldn’t delay it a lot longer. “Thank you for everything, Minamoto-kouhai,” he thanked with a smile, bowing a little. He was truly thankful. This day made him realize a few things and maybe it was also a start of something new? Akane knew how to try and knew how persistent and patient he could be.
“My pleasure, Aoi-senpai.” Minamoto reciprocated the smile. “I won’t be upset if we make something again in the future. Or… you know, if we just meet to spend time together,” he said, getting a little red and flustered. “But you might encounter the Princess or Teru-nii.” Kou laughed a little.
Akane smiled a little and nodded, while heading to the corridor. He took a fast look at Minamoto before putting on his coat. The sun was still smiling at him gently.
That was the moment.
This is when Akane realized that he didn’t want to give Aoi his whole world.
His whole world changed, became bright and warm. And this whole world was standing next to him, smiling. The cold moon wasn’t making him feel helpless anymore, because the warm sun was finally in Akane’s sight.
“I can’t wait to meet again and cook something together, kouhai,” he said with a soft smile and gave in to the impulsive thought. Akane kissed his friend’s cheek lightly. He was feeling like his heart could jump out at this moment. But that kiss felt freeing.
Minamoto went red in an instant. The red was even deeper in colour than his earring. He slowly raised his hand to his cheek and touched it, probably being in disbelief at what just happened. He was wide-eyed in surprise and speechless for a moment. “I… we… we’ll.. yes, we’ll choose a date soon…,” he muttered and pushed a small box of chocolates into Akane’s hands. “Have a safe return, Aoi-senpai”.
Akane nodded a bit and hummed pleased with himself. “See you soon, Kou-kouhai”.
When valentine’s day came at school, chocolates made by Akane weren’t laying on the big pile with other treats on Ao-chan’s desk. They weren’t even in the same classroom, never even coming inside it. Those special chocolates were laying on the desk of a young exorcist, the sun who helped Akane see something important. And attached to the box was a short note:
“Will you be my valentine?”