Archive of Our Own ^beta

There was rain – a lot of it. Josuke was standing in a field, his vision limited by the less than ideal weather conditions. He didn't remember how he got there, where exactly ‘there’ was, or when he even grabbed an umbrella. From looks alone, it was definitely a cheap one from a convenience store, one that you rush inside to buy when you forget to check the forecast the night before. Not that a situation like that happened to him very often. He usually kept an umbrella on him on the unlucky occasion that the sky would suddenly darken and drop pure death on his pompadour. On the off chance that he didn't have one, he'd usually share it with Okuyasu, although it did get a bit cramped underneath.

The thought of his friend seemed to jolt Josuke back to the present. Now wasn't the time to reminisce. His main objective was to get his bearings and figure out where he was. There was a high possibility that this was the work of a Stand user, so he kept his guard up, expecting anything and everything. Josuke's right hand was tightly gripping onto the rubbery handle of the umbrella, palm sweating in anticipation. His other hand, hanging down by his side, was mimicking the same stiff gesture. Josuke turned around to check every angle. The silence around him was making him uneasy.

He faced forward again and, at first, he wasn't sure he was registering what he was seeing. He could feel the tips of his fingernails digging into his palm, a little bit of pressure away from breaking skin. Then, for a moment, he thought his umbrella had torn. It wouldn't surprise him if there was a hole in the broad, red canopy, allowing the heavy downpour to soak his perfectly styled hair. He would've believed so if the wetness on his face wasn't warm and somehow only slipped down his cheeks to bead on his chin.

Oh.
Josuke was crying.
He realized that now.

Finally taking a moment to process what was in front of him, he couldn't deny it. A few feet away from Josuke was a mound of dirt (now growing muddy from the consistent rain) buried in multiple bouquets of flowers with a newly carved, granite tombstone setting it apart from the vast emptiness surrounding it.

On the small, solid structure read:
Okuyasu Nijimura
1983 - 1998

Josuke felt lightheaded; his arms began to tremble and his knees grew weak. It seemed like his heart alone gained 10 kilograms and sank down into his stomach, like an elevator with a broken pulley plummeting down a 5-story building. One part of him wanted to laugh and pretend that this was just a stupid prank (albeit in poor taste). Another wanted to use Crazy Diamond to dig away at the dirt and pull Okuyasu out. To heal whatever had led to him being buried 6 feet under. The third part of him, which was currently winning in the battle between the other two, wanted him to simply crumble to the ground and sob. Just as he was about to succumb to whatever option his body permitted first, he heard a familiar voice.

“It's truly a shame, isn't it?”

Josuke knew that voice. It was the voice of a man that should be dead. This man should be the one stuffed into a casket and left to merge with the Earth all alone (although he thought that might be too gentle of a punishment). He slowly turned his head, hoping that by the time he fully looked to his right, the person would be gone and Okuyasu would be standing in his place, perfectly healthy and chatting about whatever game he recently started playing on his Gameboy.

But unfortunately, he saw the one person he never wanted to offend his eyes with again. A couple steps away was Kira Yoshikage standing in the rain, gaze pointed at the grave in front of them. His expression was inappropriately relaxed, as well as his posture. He was wearing his signature light purple suit and that stupid, ugly tie that Josuke wanted to strangle him with. Killer Queen was behind Kira, holding the umbrella for him. Guess he's too good to hold his own umbrella.

“He was a kind boy. Selfless. Loving. Not all there in the head, but he made up for it with his loyalty and character.”

Josuke desperately wanted to take the umbrella in his hand, close it, and repeatedly stab the man in the chest with it. He expected himself to already be doing so, but it was like he was frozen in place. His feet – no – his entire body was stationary, as if Echoes Act 3 was stopping him from even wiggling a toe. He tried calling Crazy Diamond, but his mouth was under the same curse.

Kira walked closer to Josuke. His stroll was tauntingly slow, as if he was taking a relaxing walk through the park.

“Truly unfortunate that he wasted his life on the likes of you. Someone who, supposedly, called himself his friend. Despite the title, you couldn't even heal a simple injury to save his life. If you had gotten to him in time, who knows what might have happened instead.” The villainous man's lips lifted up in a smug grin.

All the anger boiling up inside Josuke was making him nauseous. His stomach churned and his head was pounding. He grit his teeth and glared so hard he thought (and hoped) that he might induce a heart attack in Kira. The other man didn't acknowledge any of it, which honestly ticked Josuke off even more. Instead, he gently patted his back, whispering faux condolences as he turned to leave. Only then did Josuke's body permit him to move.

He spun around so fast that he almost slipped and fell right on his back. Throwing his umbrella down, he started to call for his stand.

“Crazy Dia-- !”

The words stopped right as they were coming out of his mouth. Instead of Kira Yoshikage, he was now face to face with Okuyasu. His hair was messy and littered with leaves and dirt, matching the rest of his body. Multiple scratches and cuts decorated his pale face, and his school uniform was ripped and stained with blood. It wasn't like he hadn't seen Okuyasu in a similar fashion after a stand encounter before (obviously less - well - dead-looking). The most concerning detail was that Okuyasu had a gaping hole in his side that was a few inches away from completely severing him in half. Despite the gory injury, he still stood before him, wearing the same cheeky smile he always did.

“Oku…?” Josuke's mouth went dry. “H-How? I-- Why are– didn't-- ?” The tears flowed harder.

“Woah man! Cut the waterworks a ‘lil.” Okuyasu stepped closer, placing a calloused hand on Josuke's shoulder. “I heard somewhere that cryin’ a lot can make ya age faster.”

“Are you crazy? Now's not the time to joke around! I really don't understand what's going on, but I-- I need to fix you!” Crazy Diamond appeared beside the two, ready to assist.

“Yeesh. I hate ta be the bearer of bad news or whatever, but it‘s too late for that, man.”

Josuke somewhat ignored him, already having his stand begin tending to Okuyasu's wounds. He could feel the power being released, but nothing was happening. Okuyasu still looked like a corpse.

“Shoot-- Why isn't it working?” He spoke in a panic, trying everything he could muster with his fading energy.

“Told ya dude. Some things ‘r just meant to be. Guess one of ‘em was me being dead.” He let out a chuckle that shattered Josuke's heart into tiny pieces that even Crazy Diamond couldn't put back together. “‘Least I get to see Keichou again!”

Josuke could barely hear what Okuyasu was saying over the blood rushing in his ears, louder than the heavy rain that engulfed them both. He grabbed tightly onto Okuyasu's collar, yanking him closer. His chest heaved with a horrendously overwhelming combination of emotions, the most prevalent being anger. Or maybe it was fear?

“Shut up! Shut up already! You can't go! N-not… not yet! I can't…I won't live without you…” He couldn't see well with the tears overtaking his eyes turning everything into a blur, nor could he really hear or breathe at the moment. He pounded his fists on Okuyasu's chest in frustration.

Okuyasu just laughed.

“Why are you laughing at me?! Stop laughing at me, you jerk!” Josuke shoved him especially hard that time. The disgusting sound of tearing flesh made him freeze. When he looked down to find the source of the noise, he was greeted with Okuyasu's upper half smacking against the mud.

His bottom half was already on the ground a few inches away.

…….

…….

……

…..

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…

..

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“NO!!!!”

Josuke sat up in bed with a start, clutching his chest. His whole body was drenched in sweat and his breath caught in his throat. Crazy Diamond must have brought itself out in response to Josuke's distress, as it stood beside him, watching. Its expression was usually hard to read, but Josuke could sense the worry radiating from the translucent being.

He was back in his room – in his bed specifically. The early morning sun flooded in through the windows and painted his surroundings in a pastel orange, highlighted with golden streaks. It was too aesthetic of an environment for his current situation. Casting his gaze downwards a bit, he looked at the alarm clock on his bedside table. It read: 6:33 AM.

Josuke laid back with a heavy sigh, pressing the heels of his palms onto his eyebrows to try and stave off the headache that was sure to come soon. He took that time to calm his breathing.

‘So it was just a nightmare…’ Josuke thought to himself. He drew Crazy Diamond back just as his mother burst through the door.

“Josuke! What's with the yelling?!” Tomoko was still in her night robe, the same light pink one that she had gotten from Grandpa on her birthday a couple years back. She told Josuke once that when she wore it to bed, she never had nightmares. Maybe he needed to invest in a good-luck robe too.

The teen sat up, brushing strands of disheveled hair out of his face. One long strand decided it didn't want to join the rest, and sat directly in front of his left eye. He blew at it, forcing it to cooperate.

“Mm, That's one way to ask if your beloved son is okay.” He responded as nonchalantly as he could at the moment. It was getting better, but his mind was still reeling from that terrible dream. “Just a bad dream, that's all.”

Tomoko crossed her arms and jutted her hip out to the side, an exasperated look on her face. “Jeez, you're a handful. Maybe if you'd stop gaming all night long, you wouldn't be having nightmares!”

With that, she left the room and closed the door behind her.

…………

………

“Josuke! Hurry up, would you? You're going to be late!” Tomoko shouted from the kitchen as Josuke went down the steps, 2 at a time.

He held a small comb firmly between his pursed lips and his nose, hands busy fluffing up the sides of his pompadour. His bag bounced against his side as he hopped off the last couple of steps and took the comb off of his mouth. In the background, he could hear a man giving a random teenage girl some advice about her boy problems. He never understood that -- why tell the whole world about your romance problems? Tomoko was listening to Morioh-Cho Radio, a daily ritual of hers as she finished packing her lunch for work. She was a teacher at an elementary school that was only a 25 minute train ride away from their house. Most times, she left for work a little after Josuke, so it was rare for him to be able to take his time in the mornings. She'd usually chastise him about his poor time management skills. Josuke often tuned her out.

“Alright, alright~! I'm almost done!” He stopped by a small mirror hung on the wall beside the front door, checking himself out once more before he presented himself to the public. A smirk plastered on his face, he made two finger guns before turning away. Josuke was already opening the door as he called out to his mom.

“Bye mom! See ya later.”

“Mhm! Have a good day. Don't get in any trouble!”

‘We'll see what happens,’ Josuke thought as he walked through the front door.

For the last year or so, Okuyasu always waited by the door for him so that they could walk to school together. Come rain or shine, that guy was always there. Thinking about it now, Okuyasu never really complained about anything. Not that Josuke was taking too long, nor if the weather was too hot or cold. Josuke hadn't actually asked to walk to school with him everyday, so it's not like Okuyasu couldn't stop at any time and walk to school by himself (not like he ever would). He still couldn't wrap his head around Okuyasu's mind sometimes. If it were Josuke, he definitely wouldn't be walking beside the same guy that beat him like crazy and attempted to give the same treatment to his brother. But then again, Okuyasu didn't seem to have much experience with friends (or kind people for that matter), so having someone show the slightest bit of love was a big deal. Still is.

Just as he expected (and hoped), Okuyasu was standing in front of the house. He had his arms crossed over his chest, staring up into the sky, probably daydreaming about whatever it is that someone like Okuyasu would daydream about. He finally noticed that Josuke was there and his face actually lit up. It really looked like he was glowing, with his brows raised (having been furrowed moments ago) and his mouth opened into a wide smile. After eating at Tonio's for the first time a year or so ago, his teeth were definitely much healthier (a fact that Okuyasu liked to show off). He said that with his cavities gone, girls would be swooning over his smile. In response, Josuke asked if his teeth were enough to distract them from his bad breath. He got punched in the shoulder for that comment.

“Oi, Josuke! Morning buddy.”

A wave of relief washed over Josuke and he let out a breath he didn't know he was holding. For a moment, he was taken back to that terrifying place in the rain. He had to hold himself back from physically examining Okuyasu's abdomen to confirm that he was, indeed, still in one piece. To confirm that he was still alive.

Instead of suddenly feeling up his best friend in broad daylight, he opted for slinging an arm around his shoulder, wrist hanging limp against his collar.

“Mornin’ Yasu! Thanks for waiting on me.” Josuke beamed at him.

“Of course! Not like I got anything better to do.” The two walked together in stride, legs following the muscle-memory GPS instilled in them from countless treks to the same destination.

Their dynamic usually consisted of Okuyasu talking about random things, and Josuke just listening, throwing in his occasional comments to show that he hadn't tuned out. For a guy with a pretty sheltered childhood, he sure had a lot to talk about. Sometimes the topics were pretty serious (like their futures or Stand abilities), but more often than not, it was more like:

“What food would you choose to eat for the rest of your life?”

Or:

“How would I look if I went bald?”

Josuke liked both sides of Okuyasu. He could be a goofy idiot rambling about video games with him one moment, and be comforting Josuke the next. Sometimes it felt like Mikitaka wasn't the only alien in Morioh.

“Oh, speaking of pigeons, are you ready for the test in government class t’day?” The casual info-drop made Josuke stop in his tracks, whipping his head around.

“Test?? Oi, don't just bring something like that up outta the blue! ‘Specially so last minute!” He grabbed hold of Okuyasu's shoulders but the other male didn't drop his smile.

“My bad man! Thought you'd remember. Guess next time I'll let ya find out for yerself,” Okuyasu teased, clearly having a great time raising Josuke's blood pressure.

Josuke let him go and breathed out a dramatic sigh, slinging his bag over his shoulder. “You think you're a real jokester, huh? And-- actually, how did that relate to pigeons?”

Okuyasu shrugged. “Well there's a theory ‘bout pigeons being government spies or somethin’. Reminded me of the test, duh.” He spoke as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.

“Yeah, okay dude. Anyway, I need to figure out what I'm gonna do. Mom's gonna murder me if I fail!” He continues walking, Okuyasu close behind. “If only I had a kind-hearted best friend who actually studied and felt like helping out a poor Higashikata.”

Okuyasu nudged him with his elbow. “I'm sure this friend will turn up at some point. Could have a better chance of that if ya realllly begged for it though.”

Josuke pouted a little, giving his signature puppy-eyes and batting his (fairly long) eyelashes. “Wow Okuyasu! Did I ever tell you how handsome you are? Especially when you… do that one thing? And! -- Uh -- and help out people in need!”

Okuyasu didn't acknowledge him, obviously not satisfied. Josuke cursed under his breath, which seemed to kick his hearing into gear.

“Oh? Oh my? What was that? If 'm not wrong, it sounded like some foul words from someone who clearly doesn't need any help from me.” He cupped the shell of his ear to play up the act.

“Ugh-- Fine.” Josuke clasped his hands together. “Pretty pretty please Okuyasu? I promise I'll pay you back! I can get you St. Gentleman's first thing tomorrow morning. I'll make sure it's fresh from the oven too.” That seemed to pique his interest.

He tapped his chin, pretending to consider the plea. There weren't many times that Okuyasu said no to Josuke, of course, not without teasing him first.

"Alright, I guess I'll help you out this time. But I'll be holding ya to that sandwich deal.”

“That won't be a problem at all! You're an angel, dude. I could kiss you right now.”

Josuke honestly wasn't sure why he said that. What confused him more was that the thought of it didn't gross him out. In fact, it brought a wave of heat to his face. ‘What's my problem right now?’

Okuyasu didn't comment on Josuke's obviously flustered expression (which Josuke's ego appreciated). “Nah, the sandwich from you is enough. Now if Ms. Higashikata was offering a kiss…~”

“What's your obsession with my mom?! Apparently, she likes older men anyway. Like, old enough to need hearing aids kinda old. Not little kids like you, Yasu.” He punctuated his sentence by sticking his tongue out.

“Hey, first time for everything! And that's Dad to you, mister. Your mom ‘n I are hard on ya because we love ya.” He delicately placed a hand on his own chest, as if pledging to be a good stepfather. Josuke was proving to have bad luck with father figures.

“Can it before I punch you in that big mouth of yours.”

“Don't think your mom would appreciate you ruining these beautiful kissin’ lips,” Okuyasu mumbled.

Josuke swung his bag at Okuyasu's head, but the other teen dodged by using The Hand to move a couple feet further along the sidewalk.

“You cheater!”

“‘S not cheatin’ if there's no rules!” Okuyasu cackled as he sprinted off.

Josuke couldn't help but smile stupidly, watching as Okuyasu took off ahead of him. He felt a tightness in his chest -- a good tightness that is. Just a year or two ago, he was just an average guy with average grades and a few average acquaintances. Now, he has a small circle of people he doesn't know how to live without anymore. The main culprit of this new-found dependency was Okuyasu. Ever since they'd actually started seeing each other as friends rather than foe, they really clicked. Both of them liked similar music, played the same games, had the same type of humor, etc. Honestly, it felt a little bit obsessive on his own end, but Josuke just didn't want to lose him. If Kira had really killed him that day, Josuke couldn't even imagine what he'd be doing. How he'd be living – if at all.

“You better hope I don't catch you!” He laughed as he ran after Okuyasu -- that person-shaped ball of happiness. His ball of happiness.

His best friend.

…..

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..

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The bell finally rang, echoing throughout the school. Josuke was already finished putting his things away before class had even been dismissed. He rushed out into the hallway, squeezing past a few crowds of socializing students, and down to the bottom of the staircase. The little open area behind the stairs was his and Okuyasu's little meeting spot before walking to get lunch together. They were usually lucky enough to avoid the not-so-sneaky couples getting in a quick makeout session between classes. He wondered if they looked like a not-so-sneaky couple when they were under the staircase together.

Shaking the thought out of his head, he saw Okuyasu (well, mostly his back) in their usual spot. It looked like he was talking to someone in front of him. Upon closer inspection, Josuke realized that the ‘someone’ in question was Koichi. He instinctively looked around for Yukako, but she was shockingly nowhere nearby.

“Oh, it's Josuke-kun!” Koichi waved at him. Josuke waved back before shoving his hands into his pockets.

It could've been a trick of the light, but he swore he saw Okuyasu jump a little at the mention of his name.

‘What had they been talking about just now?’

“Dude, that test would've wiped the floor with me if you didn't pass me that cheat sheet.” He stood between the two. “ ‘Preciate it.”

Okuyasu nodded and cleared his throat. “Just glad to help. Can't have you fallin’ behind.”

Was it just his eyes again, or did Okuyasu seem a bit nervous?

“Ah, Yukako is probably wondering where I am. I told her I'd meet her in the cafeteria in a few minutes. Don't want to keep her waiting! I'll see you both later!” Koichi politely excused himself. Then it was just them.

“Surprised Yukako didn't stalk him over here. Maybe she's turned a new, less psycho, leaf. Heh, she might even be normal.” Josuke leaned against the wall as he spoke

“Mm, nah. I don't see that happening. ‘Least not in this lifetime.”

“Yeah, you're probably right.” His stomach growled impatiently, growing sick of the boring small talk. “I'm starving. Are we hitting up Hoka-Ben or sticking with the cafeteria?”

Okuyasu seemed more relaxed now.

“Depends on what they're servin’ this time around. ‘M not eating any mystery meat,” he replied, tapping his foot to release some pent-up energy. Okuyasu had a bit of a hard time staying still sometimes. Josuke noticed that he would either drum his fingers on the closest surface, mess with his clothes, or tap his feet. It was kinda cute.

He continued.

“Ya know, I've been really in the mood for Tonio's recently. I was thinkin’ of stopping by on the way to see Keichou after school t'day.”

“Want me to tag along?” Josuke offered.

Every other week or so, Okuyasu would go visit his brother's grave. He would sit on the ground next to the tombstone, telling Keichou about all the mundane happenings of his life. He once joked that if Keichou were alive, he'd probably smack the back of his head and tell him to stop talking so much. Josuke had frowned at that, upset by how unfazed Okuyasu was by something like that. Okuyasu didn't hold much (if any) resentment for his brother, so Josuke had to actively stop himself from adding his own two-cents about how sucky Keichou seemed. Since then, he made sure to always at least offer his emotional support for the burial trips.

“Nah, you don't gotta. Isn't it boring fer you to just stand there and listen to me talk to a heap-a-dirt?”

Josuke snorted. “I listen to you talk all the time. Not much else to it. Besides, I still feel like a Stand user might pop up at any moment. Best for us to be close in case something goes down.”

What he really wanted to say was:
"I had a stupid nightmare where I couldn't save you from Kira and now I feel like if I leave you alone for too long, something is going to happen to you and it'll be my fault."

But again, he was trying to lay off of the ‘clingy best friend’ thing, so he kept that part to himself.

“Aw, yer making me feel like a damsel-in-distress!” He was joking but his expression was soft and sincere. “Thanks. You really don't know how much that means t’ me.”

A fluttering sensation bloomed in Josuke's stomach. I mean, it was just gratitude – nothing more and nothing less. Yasu was a grateful person in general, not just to him. Yet, he couldn't help but feel like there was more to that statement. It was possible that there was something deeper than that, but Josuke would rather die than misinterpret it and make things weird. There's absolutely nothing wrong with being there for a friend. Nor was there anything wrong with finding said-friend's face kind of endearing multiple times in one day. Girls hold each other's hands in public and even say ‘I love you’ to each other all the time. This was no different. Nope, not different at all.

It was Josuke's turn to clear his throat (and clear the awkward atmosphere). “What are friends for? Now! Let's go eat!”

Okuyasu grinned and Josuke wanted to punch himself in the gut with his Stand.

“Let's go eat!”

………

…..

“Can't believe I'm actually comin’ to you for this but I need sum second opinions.”

Okuyasu had asked Koichi earlier that morning to leave class a couple minutes before the bell, and meet him underneath the staircase. It honestly took a lot of courage to even approach Koichi. It was an awkward topic that he couldn't really turn to anyone else for. Especially not Josuke.

“I'm all ears. Thank you for trusting me enough to confide in me about whatever's on your mind.” Koichi had replied.

Okuyasu sucked in a deep breath and started word-vomiting.

“Okay, so, I know you ‘n Yukako started off on some pretty bad terms with the whole kidnapping situation, but you managed to forgive ‘er and now you two are a thing. Josuke and I started off kinda in the same way and now we're pals, right? I didn't have a lotta friends growin’ up and now Josuke's really my whole world. Is there some kinda psycho-ology thingy that makes you real close with people you used to hate? To the point where you can't live without ‘em? Because if there is, it's been really affectin’ me for a while. ‘M pretty sure Josuke thinks we're good friends and that's why we hang around each other so much. But sometimes I'm worried that I'm botherin’ him by being so clingy.” He could probably count how many breaths that took on one hand.

Koichi's brows were raised in surprise. He giggled a bit and Okuyasu felt his face flush with embarrassment. Koichi realized and held up his hands apologetically.

“Sorry, sorry. I'm not laughing at you, I promise. I get why you'd be worried, but I could bet my life on the fact that Josuke-kun is just as attached to you as you are to him. As much as you think you're clingy, he practically glues himself to your side.”

“I was thinkin’ that too, but there are times when he'll make a face at me ‘n I dunno what it means.”

“What kind of face?”

Okuyasu thinks for a minute about how to properly portray the emotion he was referring to.

“I dunno. His face gets a little, like, red-ish. But it's not like he's mad at me or anything. Oh- and then ‘e tries not to look at me. Usually changes the topic too."

Koichi definitely seemed to know something that Okuyasu didn't, because he suddenly smiled extra wide. He expected Koichi to say something, but he just stared at him, which made him uncomfortable. When he was uncomfortable, he would fidget with his collar. It was a habit that his dad always told him to quit, but holding it in made him want to do it more.

“Oi, Koichi! Don't just stare! I don't know what you're tryna say with your face. Tell me what ‘cher thinking.”

“Okay, uh. I hope you don't get offended by this, but have you heard Josuke complimenting another guy before?”

Okuyasu looked at him blankly. “Mm, like calling an actor or a video game character good-looking?”

“No, no, like the way I would call Yukako ‘pretty’ or ‘cute’. Something like that.”

“He calls me handsome sometimes but ‘m pretty sure that's only when he's being sarcastic or asking me for a favor. Why?”

“I guess I should rephrase – do you think Josuke finds other guys attractive? Finds YOU attractive?”

Okuyasu's hand paused, his fingers hovering over the dollar symbol on his collar. He thought back to that same morning when Josuke called him handsome. A part of him was starting to think of that comment in a different way.

“Eh??? What? N-No way! That's… I-I doubt it.”

The shorter teen pressed further. “Well, hypothetically speaking, how would you feel if he DID find you attractive?”

“Isn't that… I'm… I ain't gay or anything…” His delivery was a little pathetic, like he was convincing himself instead of Koichi. He's had crushes on plenty of girls! What was he so defensive for?

“Well --”

As Koichi was about to continue, the bell rang out around them, and the halls were starting to fill up with other students. Koichi looked past Okuyasu as he spotted someone approaching.

“Oh, it's Josuke-kun!” Koichi turned and waved at the other. Josuke was still a bit far away, so the greeting was more of a warning to Okuyasu. It was noticed and definitely appreciated.

……..

….

“Yasuuu? Earth to Okuyasu?”

Okuyasu shook his head as Josuke waved his palm in front of his face. They were sitting in the gym’s storage room together, the same place they had snuck into with Shigechi before. They liked to believe that he was there with them, haunting the room while eating an eternal St. Gentleman's chicken sandwich. Now, it was just the two of them with the bentos they bought from Hoka-Ben.

“I asked if you were gonna eat that tamagoyaki,” He pointed at the requested item with his chopsticks.

Okuyasu held his bento box up to the other, and Josuke picked up the little rolled egg, dropping it in his own box with a “Thanks.” They went back to eating in silence. Silence between them was usually comfortable. Today, the air felt thick with too many things unsaid on both sides. He scrunched his nose in slight frustration. One thing Josuke absolutely hated was awkward silence, so he chose to speak up first.

“So, any plans after we go see Keichou?”

Okuyasu shrugged and made an indifferent sound. “Not really. Probably gonna make dinner for Dad and do some homework. Why?”

Josuke picked off the mushrooms from the small corner of his bento box. The compartment had small carrots shaped like flowers, a couple broccoli florets, and the offending mushrooms. He didn't notice them when he first bought it, probably because he was too focused on the pork cutlet.

“No reason, just making small talk.” He wanted to ask Okuyasu about what he and Koichi were talking about earlier, but he wasn't sure if he should.

Screw it, Higashikatas never hesitate.

“By the way, what were you and Koichi talking about earlier? He never leaves class that early, especially not without Yukako. My birthday already passed, so I know it's not a surprise party thing.”

“Oh, that? Nothin’ special. Boring stuff,” Okuyasu replied very vaguely. That wasn't the response Josuke was looking for.

“Woww, totally not suspicious at all. When did we start keeping secrets?”

“‘S not a secret! Just somethin’ that doesn't concern you.”

That statement bugged him a little and he was tempted to keep pushing. For both their sakes, he dropped it. “Tch, fine. Whatever.”

In an attempt to fix the negative energy, he only made things worse.

……..

….

After school, the two stopped by Tonio's restaurant as planned. Josuke left the establishment with a couple less pimples after eating a Caprese-Chicken Saltimbocca. Okuyasu's hangnail disappeared once he ate a plate of Panzanella (a word that both of them spent a couple minutes repeating and giggling about). It was still funny to Josuke that, before, he wouldn't have even attempted to eat anything from Tonio's. Now, it was almost mandatory to make a pit stop there while heading to Keichou's grave, even if they didn't have anything specifically bothering them. Today, he did. Despite his extensive skin care routine, his forehead had been attacked by some unsightly, pus-filled bumps. Other than that, Josuke was just fighting for his life trying to figure out his feelings for his best friend. To his surprise, a Stand with the ability to fix physical ailments similarly to his own was pretty common. Emotional turmoil on the other hand? Not as much. If only there was a plate of spaghetti that could fix whatever was making Josuke act like an idiot around Okuyasu all day.

A good 15 minute walk later, the two arrived at the Kunimitoge Cemetery. Keichou's gravestone sat where it always was, adorned with a few flowers from previous visits. Seated atop the headstone was a small frog – its skin was a murky yellow, bordering on green, and covered in bumps and warts. Its beady round eyes flicked over to the two as if they were intruding on its privacy. Okuyasu approached it first, greeting his brother, then crouching so that he was eye-level with the creature. Josuke walked a little closer, still leaving room between him and the amphibian.

“Hey, lil’ buddy! You been keeping Keichou company?” Okuyasu held his hand out towards the frog, palm facing up in hopes that it would hop on. To his dissatisfaction, it hopped off the headstone and away from him.

“Dude, what if that thing is poisonous?” Josuke grimaced as the slimy little thing moved closer to him. He stepped to the side to avoid any contact with it.

Okuyasu stood up and brushed off his pants. “Well, you'd have Crazy D fix me. I can count on you, so I'm not scared of a little frog poison.”

“Jeez, don't get too comfortable. Healing you takes a lot outta me too ya know.”

“Yeah, but I know ya. You're real selfless. Like with the whole Kira thing. You just wouldn't give me up, even though it looked like I already kicked the bucket. ‘Least, that's what I heard from that Hayato kid.”

Josuke went quiet – unpleasant memories flooding into the front of his mind. It gave him a sense of déjà vu, standing by a grave like this. The only comfort he found was that, this time, Okuyasu wasn't the one buried.

Okuyasu seemed to notice the silence from the other teen and tried to lighten the mood. “But that was a while ago ‘n we're both still here. Leave the past in the past and all that. I'll pay you back sometime, though I hope it isn't a near-death experience,” he said, giving Josuke a reassuring smile. Josuke returned it as well as he could.

The next hour and a half consisted of Okuyasu recapping for Keichou while Josuke quietly sat beside him. Every now and then, Josuke would chime in to add onto the story Okuyasu was telling, and it almost felt like Keichou was there.

It started to get dark, so they bid the grave goodbye and began making their way back to their houses.

Ever since they had arrived, Josuke felt a little anxious – actually, paranoid was a better word. He kept his head on a swivel and made an effort to be slightly behind Okuyasu while they walked. Sometimes he had to double-take when he saw a blonde man on a bench, or a man in a suit walking a little too close behind them.

“Hey, Josuke?”

“Hm?”

“You alright? Ever since we left Tonio's, you've been on edge. You expecting someone?”

“Nah. Well, more like not expecting someone, if that makes sense.”

“Mm, no, not really. Still, talk to me. Feels like I've been the only one sayin' anything today.”

Josuke stopped walking, shifting on his feet. Okuyasu paused and turned to him, hands in his pockets to keep from fidgeting too much.

“So, last night, I had this stupid nightmare. I was in this weird, empty field, holding an umbrella in the rain. There was a tombstone in front of me and it, uh, it had your… your name on it. Then Kira showed up and pretty much mocked me. He started talking about how I was a bad friend for letting you… you know. It was like a ‘what-if’ sorta thing,” he paused for a moment to check Okuyasu's expression. He simply looked back at Josuke with a sincere look on his face. He nodded, encouraging him to finish.

Josuke continued.

“Then you showed up, but you still had a massive hole in your side. Told me it was too late to fix you and then you started laughing at me. I grabbed you because it was irritating me and… you kinda...” He cleared his throat, praying that any tears threatening to fall would disappear. He couldn't cry in public. He couldn't cry in front of Okuyasu. “You split in half.”

Neither of them spoke for a beat – Okuyasu processed the information and Josuke avoided eye contact.

“Wow. Uh. Okay, yeah that's-- that's a really bad nightmare.” He took a second to compose his thoughts before speaking again.

“Why didn't you tell me earlier? And-- Shoot, I mentioned Kira, didn't I? ‘M sorry man. I didn't know you were still hurtin’ from that… You really don't know how much that day meant to me. I mean, I really thought I was gonna die. Especially without saying goodbye to you? That part hurt the most. Emotionally, of course. Getting blown up hurt like crazy.”

Josuke couldn't help but crack a little smile. He kind of hated how pitiful he was acting at the moment. Okuyasu must have known that, trying to bring the mood up with a joke. He read him so well that it was almost embarrassing. It made him feel naked. Strangely enough, he also felt comfortably seen.

“I don't wanna lose you, Yasu. Seriously.”

Okuyasu started tearing up (somehow more than Josuke).

“You won't lose me. I promise. We made it this far already! It'd be dumb to stop now.”

He held out his pinky to Josuke, eyes glassy with unshed tears. Josuke mimicked the action, linking his pinky with Okuyasu's. Josuke pulled Okuyasu in by his hand, wrapping his arms around him. Face buried into his shoulder, Okuyasu closed his eyes, letting the tears fall. They probably looked weird, hugging and crying in the middle of the sidewalk, but it didn’t matter. At that moment, it was just them in the world. They only needed each other.

……..

…..

*BEEP* *BEEP* *BEEP*

Crazy Diamond slammed its hand on the alarm clock, silencing the obnoxious thing. Josuke couldn't complain – he was the one that foolishly set his alarm to 5:00 AM. He promised Okuyasu that he would get him a sandwich from St. Gentleman's, so he was up bright and early to fulfill his promise. Heh, 'bright and early'. That phrase felt stupid. It wasn't even bright outside yet. Just early. Way too early.

As he was about to head out the door, Tomoko peered downstairs.

“Josuke? Where are you going so early? It's barely 6. I have to drag you out of bed most mornings.”

“I promised Okuyasu something and I need to get there on time. Shouldn't you be happy for me?”

“I actually assumed you were sneaking out – going to get in trouble somewhere. But I trust Okuyasu to keep you on track, at least a little bit. Just be safe.”

‘Hmph. I can take care of myself.’

“Gee, thanks mom. Glad to know you have faith in me.”

Josuke was about to leave, wanting to beat the line, but a photo of his grandfather caught his eye. It was set up on the wall by the front door, next to the mirror. Josuke hadn't really taken the time to look at it since his grandfather passed. It made him emotional, so he actively avoided acknowledging it.

In the photo, his grandfather was a lot younger then, maybe in his 30s. His hair was short, black, and slicked back. Josuke's mom was a teenager then, probably about his age. The two were posing together at the beach, melting ice cream in hand. Josuke felt a deep sadness settle in him. It really was just him and his mom. Sure, his dad and Jotaro-san were still around, but it was only the two of them in Morioh. Josuke really was all Tomoko had. When he thought that she was nagging, she was just trying to make sure he was safe. Turning around, he marched back up the stairs and gave his mother a tight hug. She paused, unable to hide her surprise, before melting into the embrace.

“I love you, Josuke.”

He felt his throat tighten. To avoid any more tears, he buried his face deeper into his mom's robe. It smelled like lavender and laundry detergent.

“I love you too, mom.”

After a few seconds, they separated. She kissed him on the cheek and made him give her one as well before letting him go downstairs. Josuke said goodbye, quickly slipped on his shoes, and stepped outside. It was a little colder in the mornings than in the afternoon – not cold enough to need a big jacket, but enough to fully wake him up. The chill breeze hit him immediately and he stuffed his hands into his pockets, tucking his chin into his collar. He decided he'd be able to tough it out and made his way to St. Gentleman's. There was already a short line outside since the shop had opened around 30 minutes ago. He waited patiently for his turn and, thankfully, was able to snag two sandwiches (one for himself as well, because he didn't eat breakfast before he left). On his way back, he saw Okuyasu making his way to his house.

“Yo! Yasu!” Josuke called from down the street. Okuyasu looked around, not noticing where the voice was coming from at first. He finally made eye contact with Josuke and started jogging to meet him. The two came together a little bit before Josuke's house. Josuke triumphantly held out the paper bags, a cocky grin on his face.

“Woah! You really got it!” Okuyasu took the sandwich and looked into the bag. The smell of sweet bread and spiced chicken filled his nose. “Thanks a lot! How early did you have to get there?”

“Just know that it was unreasonably early. Don't worry about it though. Enjoy your sandwich, my friend!” Josuke was already opening the bag, ready to eat his breakfast.

“C'mon, we still have some time. Let's sit over there,” Okuyasu gestured to a bench nearby.

They took a seat next to each other and dug in.

“How'd you sleep last night? No nightmares, right?” He spoke with his mouth full. It would've been annoying if it weren't Okuyasu.

“Nightmare free. I think getting it off my chest helped a little.”

Okuyasu nodded in approval. Josuke noticed that he had some food residue on the corner of his lips. He grabbed a napkin and dabbed at the other's face. Okuyasu looked a little surprised.

“What? You just had food on your mouth. Jeez, eat a little less messy.”

Josuke felt himself staring at Okuyasu's lips, even after the sandwich bits were wiped away. He looked back up at Okuyasu's eyes, which were busy staring at Josuke's mouth. He realized that he was much too close to Okuyasu, and that his hand was still by his lips. Josuke quickly pulled away, occupying himself with his sandwich. The other male was still staring, but he tried to ignore it. His cheeks were definitely red.

“It's cold out, isn't it?”

Okuyasu didn't seem to register that the comment was directed towards him. It clicked and he finally stopped staring, his cheeks matching Josuke's.

“Yeah, ‘lil bit. Can't wait to feel the heater when we get to school.”

“Same here.”

‘Yet another awkward silence. When will it end?’

………

….

“Help me out Koichiiii~! I can't take much more of this!” Josuke whined, pressing his forehead against the broom in his hand.

The school day was over, and it was time for the students to clean up the classroom. Usually, Josuke would skip out on this part by pretending to go to the bathroom, then sneaking out the back door. This time, he needed help (and the hall monitor was getting suspicious), so he stayed. Koichi was a couple feet away, wiping down the chalkboard. Mikitaka was cleaning off a nearby desk, somewhat a part of the conversation.

Koichi shook his head. “I feel like I don't need to tell you, Josuke-kun. Just talk to him! From what you're telling me, he's feeling it too.”

Josuke swept up a broken pencil. “How would I even start? Walk up to him and say:
‘Hey Okuyasu, I think you're cute and I wanna date you. Also, sorry if you're not into dudes and you hate me forever.’”

“That sounds good,” Mikitaka chimed in.

“Okay, obviously not word for word, but something like that. I don't even think Okuyasu-kun has it in him to hate you. If fighting him almost to death didn't do it, nothing will.” Koichi shrugged.

Josuke emptied the dust-pan and leaned against the wall beside the chalkboard. He busied his hands by patting his hair down. “Yeah, but I know him. He might act like it's cool, but he actually feels uncomfortable. Even if there's the slightest, most miniscule chance that he likes me back, I don't know if he wants a serious relationship with another guy. All the judgement might not be worth it for him.”

Koichi put down the cloth he was holding and turned to Josuke. “I get you're worried and all, but you can't keep living like this. I mean, what happens next year? And the year after that? Will you just keep your feelings to yourself? Watch Okuyasu get into a relationship on his own?”

The thought made Josuke bite the inside of his cheek. No way would he subject himself to such a pathetic fate.

“If we were on my home planet, you two would not have to fret. In fact, two males being romantically involved is seen as extremely masculine! There would be a ceremony of some kind to commemorate your new found love.” Mikitaka smiled at Josuke, though he didn't know how to feel about that statement.

“Thanks Mikitaka. I'll keep that in mind if I ever visit.”

“If you'd like, I could hold a ceremony for you both here. I know the general proceedings.”

“Eh? Ah… I'll think about it.”

Koichi smacked his hand with his fist. “Oh! How about you tell him at your house? You'll both be relaxed and it'll come out naturally.”

Josuke rubbed his chin, considering it. If his mom is out running errands, it might work out.

“Alright… That should work.” He grabbed the broom again, tapping it on the ground and punching his own chest. “I'm gonna do it today! After-school! A Higashikata never hesitates!”

Koichi and Mikitaka politely applauded him. His other classmates rolled their eyes.

‘Okuyasu better be ready. I'm gonna give him the best confession he's ever had in his entire life! He'll be so flattered that he'll HAVE to fall for me!’

……..

….

Josuke was close to entering another lottery with the luck he was having. He asked Okuyasu to come over to his house that afternoon to hang out, to which he enthusiastically agreed. His mom also went out to get groceries, so she probably wouldn't be back for another two hours. They were sitting in the living room playing a fighting game and Josuke was absolutely kicking butt. The screen flashed “K.O” and Okuyasu groaned, throwing his head back. Josuke pumped his fist and stood up, dancing in front of the TV.

“I won again! Lucky~!”

Okuyasu grabbed a pillow and threw it at Josuke's head. Josuke made a show of sliding to the side to avoid it, keeping up his rhythm.

“Not fair! You're so much of a loser that you play this game 24/7! ‘Course you'd win.”

Josuke cupped his ear, leaning towards him. “Oh? ‘Loser’ you say? I'll have you know that my win streak is due to nothing but pure dedication and strategy. Just admit that you're jealous.”

Okuyasu got up and Josuke quickly walked around to the other side of the couch, giggling.

Okuyasu stepped to the left. Josuke stepped to the right.

Josuke cackled, blowing a raspberry. Before he knew it, Okuyasu was behind him with the help of The Hand. He grabbed Josuke's shoulders and yanked him backwards. Josuke managed to keep his balance and shot an elbow back into Okuyasu's stomach. The other male groaned and reached to grab him again. Josuke ducked down and rolled away from him, now laying on his back. He tried shuffling back on his elbows to create more distance, but Okuyasu jumped onto the floor and grabbed his ankle. Josuke kicked at him, but the other teen wasn't letting go easily. Okuyasu managed to pull him closer, but Josuke's heel made contact with his chin. Okuyasu let out an ‘Oof!’ and leaned down, biting Josuke's leg.

“AGH! You freak! Why are you biting?!”

“Keichou used to do it all the time! Works like a charm!” Okuyasu crawled over, caging Josuke underneath him.

“You animal! You have a Stand now, just use that!”

They were both panting – laughing so hard that there were tears in their eyes. The laughter died down and Okuyasu hadn't moved. They both slowly realized how cliché the situation was, yet neither of them wanted to adjust.

“How does this always happen?” Okuyasu huffed, as more of a statement than a question.

“You just can't resist me, huh?”

Okuyasu got off of him, laying down beside him on the floor. The sound of the video game's background music played quietly throughout the living room. It was definitely helping to make things less awkward.

“Honestly? Yeah. I don't think I could leave you even if I tried.”

“What's that supposed to mean? You're making it sound like I cursed ya.” Josuke scoffed, sitting up.

Okuyasu was silently twiddling his thumbs, hands placed over his chest. The rough-housing had lifted his shirt up a bit, exposing some of his stomach. He had a few faded scars on his side and above his belly button. Whether they were from his dad or his brother, Josuke wasn't sure, but it left a sour taste in his mouth regardless.

“Remember when you were asking me about what Koichi and I were talking about yesterday?”

“Yeah?”

“Well… I was asking for some advice from him. I'm a little dumb, so I can't really trust myself to know what I'm seein’. You've been acting a little weird lately and I thought I had screwed somethin’ up. I guess it's my fault too though, fer not being honest with you.”

‘Woah, woah, woah, woah, WOAH! This was supposed to be my opportunity to confess my feelings. Now I feel like a jerk! Wait a sec, when I was talking to Koichi, did he already know Okuyasu wanted to talk to me too?? No way… He was the one that set us up. Credit where credit's due, Koichi. Thanks a lot.’

“We're both bad at communicating, huh? Don't get me wrong – I wanted to hang out with you today, but the main reason I invited you was because I also wanted to get something off my chest.”

Okuyasu sat up too, twisting his body a bit to face Josuke.

“Should we say it at the same time?”

Josuke nodded. “Yeah, why not?”

“Okay,” Okuyasu held up his fingers. “3…. 2…”

“...1!”

“I think I like you!”

“I think I have a crush on you!”

They both stared at each other, still a little surprised to actually hear the words they'd been holding in for what felt like forever. Josuke started laughing first, then Okuyasu.

“Wow, I'm so glad we were on the same page,” Josuke said, expression softening.

Okuyasu placed a hand on his chest, exhaling. “Me too. I thought you hated me for a little.”

“Pfft? Why would I hate you?”

He shrugged. “Well, you would always look away and get all red and stuff. Change the topic like you were annoyed with me. Good to know it was just you getting all flustered, heh.”

“It wasn't just me! Thought you were uncomfortable with that sorta thing, the way you barely commented whenever I would flirt with you.”

“Okay, okay. Let's just agree that we've both been complete messes.”

“Deal."

A beat.

“Josuke? Can I ask you a dumb question?"

“You always do. Go ahead.”

Okuyasu scoffed.

“Have you always – you know – liked boys?”

“I dunno. Maybe? I've never actually had a real crush on another dude before. I found a couple of guys cute, sure, but that's about it. I just really can't imagine myself only being with a girl.” He pointed, poking Okuyasu's chest with his finger. “What about you, Mr. Ladies-man? Thought you were crazy over girls.”

“That's the weird part. I've always liked girls, but I genuinely think you turned me gay. You're the first guy I've really like-liked.”

Josuke laughed a little. “We turned each other gay. Isn't that something?”

He chuckled. "So stupid.."

Another beat.

“...So, are we boyfriends now? If it's cool with you, I mean.”

“We can be. I don't mind.”

“Okay, cool… I have a boyfriend now!” Okuyasu held a hand over his mouth, as if he was trying to physically feel the words. “I need to tell Keichou tomorrow.”

“He probably already knows.” Josuke laid back down, hands behind his head. “What d'ya think he'd say?”

Okuyasu thought about it for a moment. “He'd probably think it's weird at first. Not that he has anything against it – just doesn't really get it. ‘M not sure he'd be very excited that it's you, but I feel like deep down, he'd be happy for me.”

Josuke hummed a sound of acknowledgement. “I'm glad you have such faith in him. Obviously I can't speak on your relationship with him, but I really can't understand that guy. He says he hates you and tells you that you're pathetic, but would throw himself in front of a train for you.”

“That's just how he was. You get used to it after some time. Even though I'm not good at reading between the lines, I know he cared for me. In his own weird way.”

Okuyasu joined Josuke on the floor again. His hand was flat against the ground beside him and Josuke took the initiative to place his palm atop of his hand. They interlocked their fingers, content in each other's company for a couple minutes.

“You wanna play another round?”

“Fine! Just be ready to lose your winning streak.”

………..

…..

“What's with them?” Yukako glared at Josuke and Okuyasu, who were feeding each other tea cookies across from her and Koichi.

“Well, they're finally together. We'll have to get used to this,” Koichi sighed as Okuyasu tried to catch a cookie that Josuke tossed into the air with Crazy Diamond. It dropped onto the table and the two giggled before trying again. They'd been at this for a good 10 minutes now.

The four of them were hanging out at Café Deux Magots together on Saturday afternoon, something that wasn't unusual for them. This time, it felt more like a double date. Actually, it was more like Koichi and Yukako were sitting in on Okuyasu and Josuke's date. For two people who were barely able to process the concept of dating each other just a few days ago, they were obnoxiously cheesy now. Yukako was frankly annoyed and Koichi was just happy for them.

“Jeez, Yasu! You have crumbs on your face!” Josuke reached over and used his thumb to wipe off the cookie bits from his cheek.

“Why are you always cleaning my face like I'm a kid?”

“Why are you always eating and leaving crumbs everywhere like a kid?”

“Don't complain. You love taking care of me~.”

“Mhmm, sure~. You're lucky you're freakin' cute.”

“I'm gonna puke.” Yukako gripped her fork tighter, bending the metal in her hand.

…………

…..

That Sunday, Tomoko had taken the opportunity to go see some of her friends (and spend some time out of the house). Some of them she met at work, but most of the women she had known since college. They had been a significant help while she was pregnant with Josuke, so she made sure to keep in touch with them. When her father was still alive, Tomoko would invite her friends to her home, but Josuke hadn't liked "all the random people poking and prodding at him" and "gushing about changing his diapers over ten years ago", as he put it. To avoid any more of his complaints, she decided to keep their meetings to outside locations. Today, they all met up at a mall in S-city for some much needed retail therapy.

Happily exhausted and hands full of tote bags, Tomoko fished for her keys as she approached her front door. It was around 4 pm and the sun was still shining down as hard as it had been when she left a couple hours ago. Around this time, she expected Josuke to be somewhere else doing whatever he usually got up to when she was out. When she finally managed to close the door (without dropping her bags of assorted jeans and button-up shirts), she noticed an extra pair of shoes. They were black, beaten-up sneakers that she could only assume were Okuyasu's. She slipped off her flats and nudged them in place beside his with her toe, hands still full. The boy came over often, which made her feel like she had a second son. He would compliment her, help around the house without being asked (since Josuke might as well have been allergic to cleaning), and most importantly, treated her son well. Unfortunately, Josuke's influence must have taken over, because the kitchen sink was full of unwashed dishes. For someone who liked to eat out so much, he could leave the kitchen a complete mess. She sighed and dropped the bags on the kitchen counter. The living room was empty, so she assumed they must both be upstairs. She made her way up the stairs to Josuke's closed door. The faint sound of "When Doves Cry" by Prince could be heard through the door. Knocking crossed her mind, but she decided against it, purely out of spite.

“Josuke?! Why can't you just do the dishes for once? What–”

Tomoko burst into Josuke's bedroom and was met with her son and Okuyasu cuddling each other. Josuke was in the middle of peppering Okuyasu with kisses, lips still pressed to the other's forehead. Comic books that they had been reading earlier were abandoned on the floor, and Josuke's blanket was half-way off the mattress. The two teens went pale, frozen in place. Their bodies finally jumped into action, quickly separating from each other, as if that would do anything for the very incriminating position they were in moments ago.

“Uh-- H-hi, Ms. Higashikata…”

Tomoko placed her hands on her hips, frowning. “So instead of doing your chores, you're busy smooching Okuyasu?? I do wish you had told me sooner that you guys are officially together, but I still need those dishes done.”

“Wait, you're not mad?! And what do you mean by ‘officially' ?” Josuke gawked.

“Why would I be mad? I'm sick of you complaining about being single, and I like Okuyasu-kun. I could tell you had a crush on him before you even knew it yourself, honey. Also, if you wanna keep your relationship from me, try not to kiss each other in front of the door when he drops you off after school.”

They both flushed in embarrassment. It's true that they hadn't been the sneakiest.

“Okay-- well -- thanks. Uh, I'll get to the dishes in a sec,” Josuke stammered, scratching the back of his neck.

“Good. I'll be in my room if you need me. Carry on.”

With that, she left, closing the door behind her.

Okuyasu burst out laughing and got a punch in the arm from Josuke.

“Dude, that was hilarious! Your mom is frickin' cool.”

Josuke stood up, picking up the comic books and putting them on his dresser. He paused the music playing from the small, portable boom-box and sighed. “Yeah, my heart was in my stomach just now. Can't believe I didn't get chewed out for having a secret boyfriend, but I got in trouble for not doing the dishes...”

Meanwhile, Okuyasu fixed up the bed. “I know right? Guess that's best case scenario, heh." He fluffed the pillow and made his way over to Josuke. "I can help you with the dishes if you want.”

“Thanks, Yasu.”

Okuyasu grabbed Josuke's hand, squeezing it tight. He lifted it up and kissed the back of it.

“Quit it, you flirt,” Josuke smiled stupidly. His words had much less of a bite than he wanted. God, Okuyasu brought out such an embarrassing part of him.

“You love me.”

“Mhm. And I can't live without you.

……………………………………………………