Posted originally on the Archive_of_Our_Own at https://archiveofourown.org/
works/9659357.
  Rating:
      Explicit
  Archive Warning:
      Underage
  Category:
      M/M, Multi, Other
  Fandom:
      Original_Work, omegaverse_-_Fandom
  Additional Tags:
      Omega_Verse, Alpha/Beta/Omega_Dynamics, Mpreg, Fluff, Sexual_Content,
      Consensual_Underage_Sex, Mating_Cycles/In_Heat, Mating_Bond, Mating
      Bites, Yaoi, aftermath_of_abuse
  Series:
      Part 4 of AOBI_Omegaverse_Stories
  Stats:
      Published: 2017-02-11 Completed: 2017-04-23 Chapters: 26/26 Words: 38006
****** AOBI s.3. Confessions and Contradictions ******
by KiiroiDaruma
Summary
     Note: The underage characters involved in romantic relationships are
     17 at the start of the story.
     This tale can be read on its own.
     It is nearly the end of the school year, but AOBI still gets a new
     omega transfer student right after the Winter Break. The soccer team
     is elated.
     The Student Council Secretary's secrets aren't as well buried as he
     thinks. Suzuki Kou, The Hedgehog, and Ito Tomoyuki's courtship
     continues.
     Other old and new faces make appearances.
Notes
     All the episodes involving Suzuki and Ito from s.1 and s.2 are
     collected into
     'Harinezumi_Hen'
See the end of the work for more notes
***** The Day of Truth *****
Tanaka Yuki was an anomaly. Or perhaps that was a bit too harsh. There wasn't
anything actually wrong with him, he was the same as any other young man of his
kind. What made him so rare was that he was the son of two male Omegas. His
parents had done searches and found that the chance of his conception was
estimated as less than one in a thousand. To think of it another way, put 999
black marbles and one white marble in box. Shake them up and pick one in
random. If it is not white, put it back and try again. If it is white then
there is a chance for little Yuki. When you added to the equation that Omega-
omega pairings were less than 5% of all the couples, it made a child like this
nearly impossible.
Not much was known of 'pure omega' children. They were rare and the few that
were known were almost entirely from past era male-female pairs. The Tanakas
decided early on to keep the truth about their son hidden in fear of him
becoming a lab rat. Therefore it had been leaked to the neighbors that his papa
had had a 'heat related accident' and that the couple had decided to keep the
resulting offspring anyway.
His parents had both doted on him and he had never felt unloved. Neither had
they spoiled him, if he wanted something he worked for it. He had been somewhat
weak as a child and been held back a year when starting school, but the doctors
who worked for his uncle assured them that it was not related to his gender.
The parents had only told Yuki the truth of his birth when he was sixteen and
old enough to understand that it was not wise to let anyone know. At that time,
Yuki was already enrolled in Katsuyama High, one of the two schools
specializing in sports. Then he finally understood why his parents had been so
against him going to that school. While not much was known about 'pure omega'
children, one thing was known, they were always Omegas themselves.
Katsuyama frowned on Omegas even in individual sports and had a strict policy
on not letting any Omegas in the teams. They barely tolerated Betas and
Unknowns. One had to be really good to get even a chance. Yuki knew he would
one day become Omega and be kicked out of the soccer team. Since it would have
been too hard for him to face the shame of that, it had been easy for him to
agree that he would immediately transfer schools.
He just had not expected it to be this day or this public. The exhibition game
had been going well. AOBI had proven a tenacious opponent. They had not given
up trying even though everyone knew how the match would end. Katsuro, as the
team was called, appreciated their fighting spirit, even if it was an 'omega
coddling institution'. Too many schools just folded when faced with Katsuyama
or their arch rival, Kiniro High. When the break started they were leading only
3-1. Everyone was in high spirits.
Then everything had gone wrong. Just before the break was to end his stomach
had cramped bad enough to make him fall on his knees. A cold sweat had broken
out of every pore of his skin. Then he'd gotten hot and the scent had already
told him it was all over. He didn't need the oozing sensation in his pants for
that.
Yuki closed his eyes. He could still feel the stares of his, now former,
friends and team mates. Incredulous, angry, disappointed and lustful. He'd
taken the risk and now he had lost. Tears pushed out through under his
eyelashes. A gentle finger wiped them off.
'Quit bawling. You're stronger than this. Silly kid.'
'What do you know?'
He'd been transported into an STV, an ambulance of a sort meant to get Omegas
in heat safely from one place to another. They had also given him a shot of
suppressants and told him to lay down and rest. Another boy, Beta, had
accompanied him in the back. A boy in AOBI school suit.
'Trust me. I know too well. Without a warning my life broke into a million
slick covered shards last Spring.'
'Oh. You're one too? That must have been tough. I thought you were Beta.'
'I thought so too. Almost no-one knows. I'd appreciate if you didn't tell. I am
not a nice person and if all the people who hate me knew, it would be pretty
bad.'
'You're hiding it. Not an option for me. I promised that when it happens, I
would accept it. Are we going to AOBI now?'
'Yeah. You knew? And you still went to that school and played a team sport.
What kind of an idiot are you?'
'A very stubborn kind of an idiot.'
Suddenly Yuki felt almost like laughing. Strange that being called 'idiot'
could do that.
'I didn't know when I agreed to go there. But I did know by the time the school
actually started. I just figured to enjoy it while it lasted.'
'You're a brave idiot. Don't you realize what kind of trouble you could have
gotten? Baka.'
Yuki opened his eyes completely and looked at the other boy. He looked
ordinary. Nothing exactly remarkable except maybe the almost black eyes. He was
neither handsome or plain. The expression on his face was in contradiction to
his harsh words.
'I think you are a nice person.'
'You really are an idiot.'
Yuki chuckled. It felt good not to cry.
'I'm Tanaka Yuki. Yuki as in 'happiness' not 'snow'. Hajimemashite!'
'Suzuki Kou. Student Council Secretary.'
'What year?'
'Second and you?'
'First. Suzuki-senpai's secret is safe.'
The vehicle slowed down and turned. The road was no longer paved.
'We're here. Kanai-sensei seems to be waiting already.'
The STV stopped and the back doors opened. A heavily pregnant man in white coat
rushed in and grabbed Yuki in embrace.
'Yuki-chan. Its going to be alright. I am so proud of you.'
'Sota-ojisan. Arigato. Have you informed my parents?'
'Of course. They will be here in about an hour. Enough time to get you settled.
Can you walk?'
'I think so.'
With the help of his papa's younger brother, Yuki got on his shaky feet. He
turned to smile at Suzuki and bowed.
'Suzuki-senpai. Arigato gozaimasu. Without you the ride here would have been
hard.'
Suzuki blushed and shifted his feet nervously. He wasn't used to hearing that
kind of things.
'Just get yourself taken care of Bakanaka.'
Yuki chuckled and his uncle lifted an eyebrow looking at Suzuki.
'I guess I am proud of you too, Secretary.'
Suzuki could not hide that being praised was pleasing to him.
'I need a shower. I smell like an idiot in heat.'
'Yeah. Well, maybe I'll return the favor someday. Baka-senpai.'
Suzuki had left, but promised to check in on the 'careless moron' in a couple
of days. Yuki settled on his temporary bed waiting for his parents to arrive.
After his papa and father had left, Yuki relaxed against his pillows. They had
asked him so many questions, but finally understood that he would survive this.
He wasn't sure why they worried about that so much. He'd been mentally
preparing for it for over two years. Of course it hurt. Of course he wished it
had not happened today. Or that it would not have happened there for all to
see.
The shot he had been given would wear off soon. Apparently it was not a good
idea to suppress the first heat. So, the symptoms would return and it could get
savage. At first he had hated the idea that his uncle would see him in such a
weakened state. Sota-ojisan had reminded him that he knew what heats were
inside and out. Not only was his uncle an Omega too, but also one of the
leading experts in the field.
He wished he had his phone, but it had disappeared in the chaos. On the other
hand, he was glad he didn't have the phone. He did not want to deal with
messages about his condition right now or with the absence of any such
messages, for that matter. His body started to shake, hot and cold waves ran
from his nape to his toes. It was starting. He held on his silver medal from
the nationals as if it were an amulet. It had been such an honor for a first
year to be on that team. The memory of the after party made his cheeks burn
even brighter.
'Ayaki...Ayaki...'
Yuki closed his eyes. He pictured a smiling face and soft warm lips. He
remembered the first and only time he had had sex. The memory carried him
through the first wave, but left him weeping at the end. Because he also
remembered the horrified, guilt ridden expression on that same face the next
morning.
An hour later he pushed the call button. The following three days he spent
mostly sedated.
***** Perfumes *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
Ito Tomoyuki jumped out of the bus as soon as it stopped. He ran to the
infirmary building looking for his boyfriend. Some teammates had seen Kou
entering an ambulance during the second half of the soccer game. There had been
a lot of commotion in the opposing Katsuyama team. The silver medalists of this
years nationals had lost their wind somehow and the game had ended in
surprising 4-4 numbers. Normally that would have been a cause to celebrate, but
right now the team had to make do without its Captain. Tomoyuki had to find his
Omega. His, even if he pretended not to know Kou was an Omega. Had to know he
was safe.
There! The figure of Studen Council Secretary, Suzuki Kou, usually elicited a
retreat reaction. Most students avoided the sharp tongue of Suzuki and though
he had made a few friends lately the only person to run full speed ahead
towards him was his boyfriend.
'Kou! Kou!'
'Hey Tomo, what are you...'
Tomo's heart had been beating fast for the worry over Kou and running had not
helped. When he grabbed Kou in his arms the heart rate approached maximum. This
scent was unbelievable. Tomo sniffed his Omega's neck and started licking it
ardently.
'Tomo! That tickles...
The Alpha didn't stop. He made soft snuffling sounds and grunts that tugged
something inside Kou. The licks turned into kisses. The hands traveled up and
down Kou's back between the shirt and the jacket. He could feel the hardness
rubbing against his hip and his own body starting to respond. If this did not
stop now it would be too late. He was getting too much into it. He could almost
feel slick moistening his insides. If it leaked he'd be exposed and he could
not have that. His boyfriend was dating the Beta Suzuki Kou, not a pathetic
Omega.
'Ito Tomoyuki. Stop, please.'
'Hnnf?'
'Stop.'
Tomoyuki let go and and Kou backed off half a step. Why did he have to stop?
Kou smelled so marvelous.
'Kou, my ...Are you in heat?'
'No. Of course not. I wouldn't be out here, if..uh...It is the student I
escorted here from the Katsu Stadium.'
He'd almost slipped there. He'd almost said he wouldn't be outside if he were
in heat. Though maybe in another way he was in heat. Not the omega heat, but
the human heat propelled by being touched by his boyfriend. But the same could
be said about Tomo too.
They stood there unwilling to move away, unprepared for the consequences if
they moved closer. Abashed yet pleasantly tingling from the contact. The heat
scent was still there, now fainter. It's source was not Kou.
'Gomen. I did not really think it through. Of course you wouldn't. Kou, I...'
'You lost it for a while because of a scent of an Omega you don't even know.'
'Partially true. I lost it because the scent was on you. And because I was so
happy to see you walking. They said you went in an ambulance and...Please,
don't hate me. I cannot help some things.'
Kou would have been a hypocrite not to forgive. Two weeks ago he would have
dragged his boyfriend to his bed if he could have gotten his hands on him.
Suzuki Kou's third heat ever had been filled with thoughts of Ito Tomoyuki.
'School starts again tomorrow. Do you have practice, Captain?'
'Not tomorrow, no. But every other day of the week we do.'
Yosh! They were back to normal. Tomoyuki's little hedgehog had changed subject,
which meant he was almost forgiven.
'I missed you Kou over the vacation.'
'I missed you too. More than you can imagine.'
Tomoyuki's hear went ba-dump. Because he could imagine a lot. He was a little
too turned on still to relax completely.
'How do you feel about a swim? You could wash that stranger's scent off of
you...'
'I was going to shower, but that is even better.'
The smile suited the hedgehog. Tomoyuki wanted to see more of those smiles and
less of frowns on his face.
'It is...such a pity we cannot go to the same sauna.'
As he had expected Kou blushed that particularly charming shade of pink at the
hint of wanting to be naked with him.
'Yes. It is, isn't it. Well, see you there. And I rather liked that licking.
'Wait! I'll walk you to the dorm. I seriously don't want any other Alpha
sniffing your borrowed perfume.'
'Ah. You've got a point. Being harassed by one neck licker is enough.
'Aww! Shut up. You just said you liked it!'
'But only because it was Tomo.'
That right there was a love confession, wasn't it? At least it felt that way to
Tomoyuki.
'I really like you too, Kou.'
They were dating. They had been boyfriends since the midterms, so about what
six weeks? It felt like a much longer time. Tomo wished their relationship
could move to the next level, but until Kou was willing to admit his gender it
was not possible to get very intimate. That was not even all he wanted. Despite
being young, he had no doubt. He'd already been in love with Kou when he still
thought he really was a Beta, so it was not just an Alpha wanting to claim an
Omega.
The pool was nearly empty. Sunday just before dinner was not the most popular
time for swimming ever and a lot of the students were only arriving tonight.
Kou entered the pool to wait for Tomo, who had first escorted him to the beta
room door and only then ran back to get his swimming gear. He dove lazily under
water enjoying the weightlessness. When he surfaced another boy was just
descending the stairs one step at a time obviously not happy with the water
temperature. Kou chuckled and the boy turned around.
'Oi! I know you!'
Kou quirked an eyebrow, waiting for the other one to continue. Not even the
Student Council Secretary knew all the six hundred and something boys who went
to this school. He was not sure who this one was, but he sounded vaguely
familiar. Usually people recognizing him was not a good thing, so he braced
himself.
'Ah?'
'You're the one who made me feel so much better in the sauna last Summer. I
always wanted to meet you again!'
Kou didn't have a chance to make any reply for a growling sound drew his
attention. Two Alphas were staring down at them, one his boyfriend and another
a really big fellow. Neither was looking very happy.
'Umh...I did what? And who are you?'
Tomoyuki slid into the water and moved behind Kou. The other Alpha jumped in
splashing water all over. He was staring at Kou angrily, which was confusing as
he had no idea who this big guy was either.
'Oi! I am Murasaki Ryo. Or Murabe. From the school radio.'
That explained why the voice sounded familiar at least, but everything else was
still confusing. The big, angry looking Alpha was making Kou nervous and he
backed up slowly until he bumped into Tomo, who casually wrapped his arms
around his waist.
'I still don't know what Murasaki-san is talking about.'
'The day I thought Haru was leaving me. When I cried in the Sauna and …'
Hah. So this was that guy. The one weeping in the sauna on a hot July day. The
one who had...
'Ah. Murasaki is the one who said all Omegas are 'boyfriend stealing sluts' and
Alphas are liars.'
'Gomen. I did say some stupid things. I was very upset. I had misunderstood
something. But being able to talk to someone helped. After I went to talk to
Haru again instead of running away. Arigato!'
The big Alpha had stopped scowling and was now holding Murasaki's shoulders. He
then started to rub their necks together meticulously almost ceremoniously.
Tomoyuki swallowed so hard that Kou felt it. He had an idea what was happening,
but he'd never heard of Alphas doing it to Betas. The beta closed his eyes and
apparently enjoyed being scented. It certainly confirmed what those two's
relationship was like.
Scenting was a lot like kissing only more intimate. When done in public both
actions declared that these two belonged together. Wearing the scent of an
Alpha was also a warning to other Alphas to stay away and the same when it came
to Omegas scenting their mate.
'Uh. My pleasure, I guess. Excuse us, we need to swim.'
Tomo and Kou made their escape towards the lanes reserved for swimming
practice. The stopped at the rope for a moment.
'I didn't realize Alphas did that to Betas.'
'Neither did I. Kou, after showers, may I scent you?'
'Hai.'
Chapter End Notes
     Murabe and Murasa were already seen in Chapter 8 of 'Shock Theraby'
     and Murabe crying is in Chapter 22.
***** Soccer and Tea *****
On the first Thursday of January, the new Captain of AOBI Soccer team, Ito
Tomoyuki, had been told to interview a transfer student before practice. He sat
at the table of the small break room, bored but smiling. Because when Tomo got
bored, he started to think about his Omega. Scenting was incredible. That he
was allowed, no not just allowed, invited to leave his scent on Kou's skin,
gave him the most singular feeling of ownership. The word was not quite right
and he'd never say it out loud, because people who did not understand would
misinterpret it. He might feel he owned Kou, but Tomo was just as much owned by
him.
A knock on the door brought Tomo back from his daydreams. A student in an
obviously brand new school suit was standing there, waiting to be invited
inside. He stood up and bowed slightly.
'Welcome! Leave the door, please. Take a seat.'
The new student sat opposite of Tomo. There was something familiar about his
face and while he was almost scentless there was a tiny whiff of something he
knew he had smelled before.
'I am Ito Tomoyuki, the captain. Hajimemashite!'
'Hajimemashite. Tanaka Yuki is my name.'
Yuki was baffled. The captain of AOBI team was supposed to be an Omega. This
person in front of him was obviously an Alpha. An Alpha who was actually
sniffing the air.
'Ano...The paperwork is delayed until tomorrow. May I sit and watch the
practice today?'
'No, of course not.'
'Oh. I understand.'
'No point wasting a day. It will be extremely interesting to see Katsuro #19
put the rest of our team in their place.'
Yuki flustered. The compliment was nice, but he was actually surprised to have
been recognized that fast.
'So, Captain-san knows who I am then.'
'Hah. Having cursed that face all last season, of course. Hmm...'
Tomo was slightly uncomfortable asking a very personal question of a virtual
stranger. Yet, as the captain, he needed to know and he needed to know this
player had an answer.
'How is Tanaka planning on explaining this sudden transfer?'
'I'll just tell the truth. No point hiding it. Someone would leak it sometime
soon anyway. In fact, they may even have heard already.'
'Heard what?'
'How I presented in the middle of the game. Well, on the break.'
'I see. That is why Tanaka did not play the second half then.'
Tomo had already figured out that this boy was an Omega. Now the rest of the
pieces fell in place. He was the student Kou had escorted and that is why the
scent was familiar.
'Umh. I'll try to help with what I can, but if you have some embarrassing
questions, Maeda-senpai still comes to practice almost every day.'
'Maeda-senpai?'
'The third years are officially retired, but yes. He was the captain before
me.'
'The Omega Captain?'
'Yes. Let me show you where your changing room is and we'll meet on the field
in 20 minutes.'
…..
The practice had been interesting indeed. Tanaka Yuki was, if not the best
player, in the top three easily. He played the Katsuyama style, merciless,
precise and fast. Yuki felt out of place, not because he was omega, but because
the attitude of this team was so alien to him. They were enjoying themselves.
Katsuyama's coach would have had a stroke, if he'd seen this practice and then
blamed the Omegas for it.
The whole team had also been very curious about him, even nosy. Surprisingly
the most curious ones had been the other three omega players. Exhausted
mentally, he had promised to talk to them more tomorrow. Physically he was fine
and prepared to go out for a tea with his new friend from Sunday and whomever
he was bringing with him. Yuki waved at Suzuki-san from the door and started
walking in that direction only to have someone run past him fast, grab the
Secretary in his arms and start nuzzling his neck. Not someone, it was Ito-san.
He almost jumped at the voice behind him.
'That is the Student Council Secretary, Suzuki Kou. As you can probably guess,
they are dating.'
Maeda Mitsuo, the retired captain, smiled at the new boy's confusion.
'I am sure it happens in Katsuyama too.'
'Uh. Yes, but there aren't Omegas without a chaperon. Isn't that dangerous?'
'Life is dangerous. But I'll be your chaperon and you can be mine. Deal?'
That was not what Yuki had meant, but he remembered that Suzuki had asked him
not to divulge his gender, so he just nodded and smiled.
'Deal.'
'Hey Bakamegas, come on. It is cold here, lets go.'
'Coming, Baka-senpai. Can't wait to taste that 'stupidly good' pie.'
Maeda and Ito watched the two banter with amusement. All four of them started
walking towards the little shopping district that had sprung up next to the
AOBI campus. Suzuki and Ito were holding hands.
'Well, I expect no more introductions are necessary then. Just to make it clear
though, Tomo is my boyfriend and Maeda-senpai is his best friend.'
Yuki was confused, but nodded in agreement. Naturally he had no idea of the
scene last year when the soccer team members had gotten angry at Suzuki
thinking Ito was Maeda's Alpha. Once it had been made clear that there had
never been that sort of a thing between the two, they had started to accept
Suzuki better.
The little tea house did, indeed, serve delicious pies and excellent tea. They
were lucky to get a table for four almost immediately. Maeda watched his
friends and the new guy interacting. It made him smile. But also a little sad.
He formulated a plan.
'Oi Suzuki-san, may I borrow your boyfriend just for a couple of minutes? I
have something to ask him.'
'Huh. But he'd best come back in one piece.'
Tomo quirked an eyebrow. No-one was asking him, the Alpha, anything. Although
of course he'd talk to his best friend for a little while. They excused
themselves and went to the smoking room even though neither smoked. It did not
smell good there.
'What is it Mitsu-chan?'
'Those two...Did you notice how relaxed they are with each other?'
'Kind of...How come?'
'I've been thinking about your problem with your Omega. Okay. Your boyfriend.'
'And?'
'I think a big part of his reluctance is that he doesn't really know how to be
Omega. He has no Omega friends until now, has he?'
'I think not. He doesn't have very many friends at all.'
'Well, he has two now. I'd like to take those two out to an omega club.'
'What? To one of those disgusting...'
'Not that kind of a club. A place for young Omegas to relax. I've been thinking
about this for a while and Tanaka-san gives such an excellent excuse. If you
can give up tomorrow night, I'll take over Saturday practice and you can cuddle
your hedgehog all day long.'
'Mitsu-chan!'
Giving up the Friday night was not easy, but if it really helped for the
hedgehog to accept things, it was worth it. On the other hand, spending the
whole Saturday with Kou sounded absolutely wonderful. Cuddling the whole day
even better, but far too dangerous.
'Ok. But you will take a taxi and I want to see you all when you get back.'
'Yes, Alpha.'
Maeda poked his friend in the upper arm and Tomo had the decency to look
embarrassed.
'I didn't mean it that way. I just worry.'
They returned to the table to find that their order had arrived. Grinning Maeda
sat down and looked at the two Omegas.
'I hope very much that the two of you would go out with me tomorrow. It would
be nice to get better acquainted. Tomo is unfortunately too busy with team
papers to go anywhere tomorrow.'
'I'd like that very much! I don't know anyone else here. Please, come Suzuki-
senpai.'
Suzuki Kou could hardly refuse when one of his rare friends was that excited
and when he'd otherwise had spent the evening alone pining for Tomo.
'Sure. I just hope it is not some stupid place.'
***** Omegas in Otaku Land *****
The Student Council Secretary did not go to strange clubs in Akihabara, neither
did Suzuki Kou. But tonight he was 'Ko-chan' and Ko-chan apparently did. Ko-
chan even looked a bit strange in the mirror. Odd how much of a difference one
black line in the right place could do to how a person's eyes looked. Maeda-
senpai had also brushed something that made Kou sneeze on his face 'to even out
the tone' and used some pencil to draw a line around his lips. The biggest
difference was still the hair that was held back by a narrow metallic band
instead of falling over his eyes.
'I think that's enough. We're trying to blend in, not stand out. Kocchan looks
good though. Doesn't he, Yuki-chan?'
Yuki nodded. His impression had been that this guy was ordinary looking, kind
of blah. He'd been mistaken. Sure, Suzuki-san was not drop-dead gorgeous, but
he looked nice. Nice in a way that people would not be afraid to talk to him.
Not too pretty.
'He does. That shirt is nice too.'
Kou blushed. The shirt belonged to his boyfriend, Tomoyuki. It was black and
soft. The best thing about it was the scent. The old, black jeans were his own.
They were a teeny bit tight, but not enough to make him feel constricted. A bit
uncertainly he smiled at his two companions.
'You both look great. I feel like an idiot.'
Maeda always looked good, so that was a given. Yuki looked adorable, younger
than his years.
'Taxi is here. Lets go impress some people.'
'We're in your guidance, Maeda-senpai.'
During the drive they talked about regular everyday things, since the driver
was a stranger. Kou and Yuki learned that Maeda-senpai was going to AOBI Uni in
April as was his boyfriend, whose name was not mentioned. That boyfriend was,
in fact, right now in the 'early access program', which basically meant he was
taking classes on Dynamics, so he would know what those coming from the
escalator school learned over the years. It was because those students started
with a two week camp that Maeda-senpai was happy to go with his two friends
tonight.
'Alright. We're almost there. No-one is going to hit on you unless you wear a
rose in your collar. Cheesy, but it works. The people with roses are looking
for more than a friendly chat, but they can just chat normally too. If anyone
says things that are uncomfortable, just tell them to stop. This is not a
matchmaking club, so those are rare anyway. But everyone is looking for a
relaxed, friendly evening. Lets have fun.'
The taxi stopped. They had to walk a bit to get to the club. Just being in the
middle of it all, all those colorful lights and the night air, was exciting in
its newness to the younger boys. At the door they had to show their
identification cards which felt a little odd to Kou for this club was not age
restricted, it was primarily for teenagers and would not, for example, serve
alcohol. Maeda-senpai gave them both small cards that were used to pay for
drinks.
The inside of the club was at a first glance something they would have expected
to see. A bar, booths some sofas and a small dance floor. Further in the reason
for this club being in Akihabara became clear. The other rooms were otaku
heaven. There were bookshelves filled with manga, gaming stations, places to
watch anime and to round it up the staff was dressed like butlers with cat
ears. Yuki and Kou's eyes must have been bulging out, because Maeda-senpai
laughed quietly.
'Upstairs is more 'normal'. There are board games and card games and more
consoles. And food can be ordered there. Just try anything that looks even a
little fun. And if there is any trouble the Cats will help. We have a table
reservation at 7:30, but until then look around.'
More young men kept arriving. Most were dressed in normal, neat casual clothes,
but there were also many flashy individuals and some who had come in cosplay.
For the most part everyone seemed to be in a great mood. They noticed there
were a few who had a rose, but they were an exception.
'Yu-chan...'
'Yes, Ko-chan?'
'Is this place as weird as I think it it?'
'Probably. I mean, I know of these places, of course. But this...decor and
all...Yeah, it is weird.'
'Good. Ah.. Should we try to play a game or something?'
A stranger coughed and interrupted them.
'Sumimasen, my brother and I are looking for two more people to try out that
new co-op dungeon game. Would that be alright?'
'We only have an hour before we need to eat. If that is okay?'
'Yes. We're on the second setting too. Ah. Karasu Ai and my brother Nao. Nice
to meet you!'
'I go by Ko-chan and my friend here is Yu-chan.'
The Karasu brothers smiled and bowed. It was not the first time they met people
not wanting to give their full names.
'Then just Ai and Nao will do. This way, please.'
They followed the brothers upstairs and felt much better immediately. It was,
indeed, normal. More like a giant living room with side chambers. Maeda-senpai
was talking to some guys, but noticed them and waved.
The four sat on pillows in front of one of the screens with a console attached
and Ai-san quickly started the game. They chose to play with random characters,
since they had so little time. The game was fun. It was not too hard for Kou,
who had not played such games very many times, but it did offer some challenge
to even more seasoned players. However, they were soon all laughing at the
dialogue. Especially the character Kou was playing kept spewing innuendo at
every turn, while Nao-san's character acted completely oblivious to the hidden
meanings. Yuki's character kept trying to woo Ai-san's character, while the
latter was pining for someone else. By the time they needed to quit and go to
dinner, they had laughed and bantered like old friends.
'I can see why it is so popular. Even if it takes minimum of four players.'
'Yes. It was a lot of fun. Thank you for inviting us.'
They ended up sitting together for the dinner too with Maeda-senpai joining
them with a string of his friends. The hotpot was good and there was a lot of
it. The atmosphere in general was relaxed and amicable even if a bit noisy. Not
very different from the school dining hall, actually. The biggest difference
was that Kou was participating instead of sitting alone in the corner chewing
his meal meticulously though mostly he was just listening.
'It is a pity these meetings only happen once a month.'
'I know. If one misses a meeting then the break is very long.'
'Speaking of which, Karasu, where is Shin-san?'
'Ah. Shin-nii sends his greetings. He's in heat right now, so he'll come next
month.'
Kou froze. Had he heard correctly? They had spoken about heat casually in
dinner table and no-one seemed to mind. He was starting to wonder if there
wasn't something strange about not just the place, but the people too.
'We'll see. I might not make it. It is curse and a nuisance. If only
suppressants weren't so expensive.'
Everyone was nodding in agreement to that statement and the conversation moved
on to another interest, relationships. Karasu Nao, the more quiet of the
brothers asked curiously.
'What's your Alpha like Ko-chan?'
'My...Ah, why do you think I have...one?'
'The scent. You're wearing his shirt, aren't you? So romantic.'
Kou blushed, which drew everyone's interest to the new boy.
'Uh. My ...He is sweet. And plays soccer. Hmm..'
'Sexy?'
'Uh. Very.'
Maeda-senpai came to the rescue laughing softly.
'Enough. Please, don't tease my young friend too much. What about Sakurai-san,
has anyone heard any news?'
They started to talk about someone Kou did not know, which gave him time to
gather his thoughts. My Alpha. My Boyfriend. My Alpha boyfriend. Would Tomo
want to be his Alpha? If he knew that Kou was an Omega? Was he himself ready to
risk everything with an Alpha? Even if that Alpha was Tomo? He sniffed the
shirt discreetly, the scent of Tomo, mint, basil and fresh air went though his
nose into his heart.
After dinner they stayed another two hours. While the bar did not serve alcohol
they made very showy and tasty drinks. Several of the dinner party members came
to chat with Yuki and Kou and they also talked more with the Karasu brothers.
At the end they exchanged e-mail addresses.
In the taxi on the way back to school, Maeda-senpai turned around to look at
the two younger boy on the back seat.
'I had fun, but how about you? Did we manage to show you that we Omegas are
just people too?'
'Uh...Was everyone an Omega there?'
'Almost. There were a couple of Beta staff members, but the rest were Omegas.'
'I started to suspect something like that at dinner. But...it was fun. Arigato,
Maeda-senpai.'
When the taxi arrived in front of the Omega Dorm, it was 11:40 p.m. They curfew
for students was at midnight, but Ito Tomoyuki was waiting for them when they
got out. He looked at Kou and then looked at him again.
'You look...amazing tonight.'
Hand in hand they walked to the Beta Dorm. Before letting Kou go inside, Tomo
held him close and with a soft growl, more like a vocal purr, proceeded to
scent mark his intended mate. Then he kissed and licked the back of his neck.
Kou did not mind in the least.
***** To Lance a Boil *****
Chapter Summary
     WARNING: The end of this deals with past abuse.

     The details are kept to minimum, but it is still unpleasant.
     It is not necessary to read this to continue with the story later.
     All in all this is a story of surviving and finding happiness.
Saturday morning Suzuki Kou woke to a text message. He stretched and drew a
deep breath. He could still smell his Alpha's scent on himself and on his
pillow. He must have rubbed his neck on it. The message was also from Tomo.
.> Morning! A swim and then breakfast?
Kou loved to swim. The pool had been his escape when he had no other place to
go and swimming was the only serious exercise he did voluntarily. Even the
greatest thing could improve when it was done together with a friend and when
it was more than a friend the effect doubled.
.>Morning! Just woke. Meet there 30 min?
.>Deal.
For the first time ever Kou stopped by the Omega changing room door. He
wondered if it looked the same as the Beta room, But it would be too dangerous
to take a peek. If he got caught, he'd either be called a peeping pervert or
he'd have to confess. The first option was the lesser evil, but it was bad
enough. To the safe, old Beta room he went.
If there had been only a few people around last Sunday before dinner, on
Saturday at 7:30 a.m. the place was abandoned. Only one single swimmer was in
the pool. Kou smiled. It was Tomo.
'Hey! Looks like we have the whole place to ourselves.'
Tomo pulled himself half off the water dangling on the pool edge. He looked his
boyfriend up and down with a lazy smile and licked his lips. Kou blushed under
that hot gaze. He felt more like Ko-chan today than Student Council Secretary.
The Ko-chan whose Alpha had said he looked amazing.
Kou sat next to Tomo and let himself slide into the water. He wiped his wet
hair off of his face and took hold of the railing.
'I like being able to see your face. When your hair is back like that.'
'Ah. Umh...Thank you. Is that why you said that thing last night? That I
looked...nice.'
'Maybe a little, but you also looked happy. I like that.'
Kou thought that he was always happy when he saw Tomo, but could not formulate
that into words that did not sound ridiculous. He was feeling strangely nervous
right now.
'I ..ah...'
'Did you have a good time with Mitsu-chan and Tanaka-san? What was the club
like?'
'I did. The club...it was weird. Full of anime and manga things and video
games. The people were nice. Especially Maeda-senpai and Yu-chan.'
'Sounds a bit strange, but as long as it was fun...'
As long as it wasn't some weird sex club and his Omega didn't come home
stinking of others, it was good. Video games? He'd never asked if Kou liked
those.
'Do you like video games, Kou?'
'I haven't played very much, but I thought the one we tried yesterday was kind
of fun. It was called something like 'Ice Diamond'. At least I think.'
'Was it 'Remnants of the Past 3: Ice Blue Stone'?'
'Yea. I think that was it. Minimum four players?'
'Umh. It is age restricted, isn't it? Over 18?'
Kou burst in laughter. This was the last thing he'd expected to hear from Tomo.
'Does it really matter? That I am two weeks short? Even I would not raise a
ruckus over that violation.'
'Your birthday is in two weeks? Really?'
'Yes. January 18th. And yours?'
'May 12th . Is there anything you'd like to do on your birthday?'
'Surprise me. But not with a party, please. I don't like those.'
'I guess we have a date then. Another full day one. But first we have this
day...Race you!'
The Alpha pushed off of the pool wall and started swimming towards the practice
lanes. Kou laughed and went after him. They swam a good hour before being too
tired to continue. Other students were starting to appear now. It was a good
time to leave and go get that breakfast.
Sometimes the best of plans failed due to an outside force. This time that
force was called Kobayashi. The lewd mouthed idiot did not intend anything
really bad. It was just supposed to be a joke.
'Come on, give the little honey bee at least a hug!'
He shoved Ito Tomoyuki from behind. The surprise made Tomo to loose his footing
and he ended up squishing Kou against the cafeteria wall. Tomo didn't have time
to get angry at the attacker, because even before he could figure out what had
happened, Kou froze completely, shrieked and went limp. Tomo would never forget
that horrible sound or the shivering, sobbing lump his Omega had suddenly
become. He fell on his knees in front of Kou.
'Kou, please. I am so sorry. Did I hurt you?'
The scent of distress clung to the shivering body like smog on the worst days
in Tokyo. Quiet whimpers were the only response.
'Kou, are you hurt? Please...'
The Alpha's voice was filled with anxiety. The bump had not felt that hard, but
something had gone terribly wrong. Tears sprung and his voice trembled.
'Kou, talk to me, please. Don't leave me...'
The shivering mess inched towards the familiar voice like a caterpillar.
Reaching his goal, Kou laid his head on Tomo's knees and curled up. Tomo
started stroking his hair, still in total shock. There was a part of him that
wanted to tear the cause of this into tiny pieces, but he could not so that and
protect his Omega at the same time. The protective instinct won.
The medical staff arrived on scene. Tomo did not want anyone near Kou, but was
eventually talked into seeing the reason of getting Kou to the hospital for a
check up after they promised he could stay with him. The Alpha would have
probably carried his Omega to the ambulance, but they were both instructed to
get on the wheeled stretcher. The students in the cafeteria could not stop
watching until the vehicle drove away. They were all shocked, but none of them
more than Kobayashi.
The lucky part of the incident was that it had happened at a place where the
staff was trained to assess situations like this. The AOBI professionals could
tell from the positions of the two on the floor that the Alpha was not the
cause of whatever had befallen to the Omega. Out in the city they almost
certainly would have been separated immediately and by force. Because if an
Omega was a mess the first suspect was always the Alpha.
Suzuki Kou was given a tranquilizer shot that knocked him out for a bit over an
hour. Ito Tomoyuki sat the whole time next to him, holding his hand, gently
caressing it. There were no physical injuries on the boy. The person marked as
the first to call on emergencies surprised the nurse, but he made the call.
The top man of the facility, Kanai Sota-sama arrived in twenty minutes after
being called in spite of being eight and half months pregnant. He sat next to
Tomo and started questioning him.
'What happened?'
'Someone pushed me and Kou got flattened between me and the wall. Then he
just...'
It was obviously very hard for Tomo to speak. Tears kept sneaking out of the
corners of his eyes and his nose was stuffed. Kanai-sensei handed him some
paper tissues and with a grateful nod the boy took them and blew his nose.
'How important is Suzuki Kou to Ito? Friend? Mate?'
'He is...most important. I am just his boyfriend now, but...I hope someday...'
'Alright. I need to draw some blood from both of you. Suzuki-kun won't feel a
thing, so there is no reason to worry.'
He gave a sign and two nurses came over to take the blood samples. Tomo had no
idea what that was for, but if it helped Kou somehow, he was willing.
'Run tests D123a and D125c on these two immediately. It would be good to have
the results before the patient wakes up.'
'Hai, Kanai-sama.'
Kanai Sota sighed and rubbed his lower back. This was an unexpected
complication. If the blood tests came back positive, it would probably save a
lot of time to use the bond. But that was if and if they agreed.
'Ito-kun, some coffee and sandwiches maybe?'
'Arigato. I don't think I can eat right now. But coffee, please.'
A wave of a hand was enough to send another staff member scurrying. Five
minutes later there was a tray with two cups of coffee delivered. Silently they
watched the sleeping boy. He looked so peaceful, his breating even and color
had returned on the cheeks.
'How long...?'
'Anytime now. The effects wear out in about an hour. A bit less or a bit more.'
Fifteen minutes later Suzuki Kou opened his eyes.
'Tomo?'
'I'm here. Are you better now, Kou?'
'I can breathe. Tomo...I am sorry. I...failed.'
'You have done nothing to apologize for at all.'
A polite cough made them all turn their heads. A nurse had returned with an
envelope and handed it to Kanai-sensei. He ripped it open and held the paper up
while asking questions.
'Suzuki-kun, we meet at the hospital again. What happened? Does it have
something to do with your parents?'
'Umh. Yes.'
'How your father abused your papa and you kids? A specific incident perhaps?
Can you talk about it?'
'Yes. Yes. No.'
The last word brought back the distress and Tomo moved even closer to Kou
hovering over him protectively. Kanai-sensei put away the paper.
'Suzuki-kun, do you trust Ito-kun?'
'Hai. More than anyone.'
Kanai-sota did not like Alphas using their voice on helpless Omegas, but right
now that was beside the point. That which can be used to hurt, can sometimes be
used to heal.
'Ito-kun. Order him to tell what happened. What did his father do.'
'What? No. That is horrible. Kou would hate me...'
'Suzuki-kun wants to let it out but cannot. Is that not so, Suzuki-kun?'
A deep silence, then a sigh. A nod and a quiet whisper.
'Hai. I am weak. I need help.'
Kanai-sensei looked at Ito insistingly. The Alpha hung his head and complied
with the request, because his Omega had asked for it too. He'd never
deliberately done this to anyone and he hated it. He concentrated on letting
his scent out and almost lost it when he heard Kou sniff and whimper.
'Kou. Trust me, please. Tell me what happened with your father to make you fear
the wall so much.'
The voice that came out of Suzuki Kou's mouth was lifeless, almost mechanical
and somehow very young.
'Father had beaten papa up again and he was going to do that thing again. I
tried to distract him. He got very angry. More angry than ever. He pinned me to
the wall. 'Unless you want to take your slut of an Omega papa's place, don't
interfere.' He kept me there rubbing himself on my thigh. I could not breathe.
Then he threw me out of the room.'
This was beyond anything Tomo could have imagined. He was having trouble
breathing now just imagining it. Kanai-sensei patted Tomo's arm and asked his
own questions quietly in a soothing tone.
'When did this happen?'
'The last time I saw them.'
'Your parents?'
'Yes. When they left Papa told me to take care of my brother. They never
returned.'
***** Let It All Come Out *****
Chapter Summary
     What happened in the past was terrible. Not the worst thing ever to
     happen to anyone, but terrible. It is not just going to disappear
     magically, but it will get better with help and very slowly now that
     the real issue is finally out. I don't want to deal with it too much
     in the story, but I am not taking things like these lightly.
     Just in case my brief description of the assault in the previous
     chapter was not clear enough, the young Kou never saw the attack as a
     sexual thing. He was, however, totally terrified of being crushed
     against the wall and suffocating to death. Later he also felt that
     the press was right about how their parents died and blamed his
     interference for it. Keiji was not home at the time.
Kanai Sota grave as he spoke to the young man sitting next to him in the
security control room. They were there, because they had the permission to
watch the soundless, black and white camera feed of Suzuki Kou meeting with his
therapist. Ito Tomoyuki could not be in that room, but he needed to see that
Kou was safe. Especially since that psychologist was an Alpha.
'This will be very hard for you too, Ito-kun. If you think it is too much, we
can help you two separate a little later.'
The snarl that came out to the Alpha's mouth would have scared a lesser man,
but Kanai-sensei just watched silently.
'I am not leaving. Not unless he...'
Tomo could not finish the sentence. To be rejected by his Omega was a nightmare
he wasn't willing to put into words.
'Then don't give in even if he suggests it. Not immediately. He may say it,
wanting to protect you. That is the time to risk it all and convince him you
really want to be there. No matter how bad the past has been. Now that you know
the whole story, what do you think?'
'What I don't get at all is how could people blame the children? They were just
little boys.'
'That is another dark side of human nature. 'The apple doesn't fall far from
the tree'. That is why they needed a new name. Unfortunately it came too late
for Kou. Keiji had better luck since his friends were too young to be told
horrible things. But even he was asked not to go to a birthday party he'd been
invited to before it happened.'
'It' had been the parents of the two boys having a fatal collision with a
train. Officially it was called an unfortunate accident, but there had been
enough suspicion that it was intentional for the insurance company to deny any
payments. The sleazy press had had a field day. The kids names were not
published, but the family name had been unusual, so the neighbors had made the
connection. The decision had been made to move the boys away from the town they
had been born in, away from the whole region too. They had been moved to an
orphanage in Tokyo and from there to this school.
'It will probably still take a long time for Suzuki-kun to process things. I
understand you are upset about Akimoto-sensei being an Alpha, but they have
worked together for over five years now. Now that the final piece of the puzzle
has been revealed, I believe they can work this out. With time.'
Tomoyuki kept watching the screen but nodded. He'd known there had to have been
a reason for all those defensive spikes, but he'd never ever imagined something
this bad. All those spikes had grown to protect scars left by people. His eyes
started to leak again.
'It would probably be a good idea for Ito-kun to talk to a professional too.'
His first reaction was that that was ridiculous for he was not crazy. But Kou
wasn't crazy either, just hurt. And he needed to talk to someone, but he
couldn't talk to anyone who could look down on his Kou. That left out family
and friends. A stranger, a professional who had sworn never to reveal what was
told in confidence was the only solution. He still did not like it.
'I think I should.'
'I'll arrange it. Don't hesitate to say if the person you meet is not okay for
you. Not everyone can talk to everyone. Ahh. They are almost done. Lets go.'
'Hai, Kanai-sensei. Arigato.'
One of the worries Tomoyuki had had was alleviated immediately upon their
reunion. When Kou saw Tomo standing in the corridor, his tear streaked face
broke into a smile and he hugged him. A few seconds later Kou started to
retract as if having second thoughts. Tomo held him gently and whispered.
'Please, stay. Kou'. They stayed there, head on the other one's shoulder, for
at least a full minute. They didn't care that they were seen by the two, but
did raise their heads at a loud sniffle and Kanai-sensei muttering 'Stupid,
idiotic hormones.' They presumed he was referring to pregnancy hormones as
being the reason he was in tears, but didn't ask.
'There is no reason to retain either one of you. However, if you would like to
have a safe place to spend time together without having to deal with the
curious students that can be arranged.'
'Kou? What do you want to do? May I stay with you, please?'
'Ah. Of course. I want to spend time with you, Tomo. I also would like to see
Yu-chan..and Maeda-senpai, if..?
'Yu-chan? My nephew? And Maeda Mitsuo?'
'Hai. But only after their practice, of course.'
The two staff members looked at each other and nodded. Perhaps spending an
evening with friends would be good medicine.
'Anything special you would like to do? I don't think you should go
gallivanting in the city tonight.'
'Maybe rent movies...or play video games.'
For some reason Kanai-sensei found this funny enough to laugh out loud. He
didn't explain that it was a relief to hear something so normal, something so
atypical for Suzuki Kou.
'That is easy to arrange. I'll ask Satoru to lend his selection. Akimoto-san,
take care of the details, please.'
'Hai, Kanai-sama.'
Quarter an hour later, Tomo and Kou were shown into a small ready furnished
flat. It was one of those college level family dorm units that was currently
unoccupied. A brand new console system with pretty much every accessory and
four controllers was waiting there, still in retail packaging. They were given
a card with a phone number and a code and told to order any food they wanted.
This seemed a bit excessive to Tomo. Of course he knew the school took very
good care of its students, but let them have an all expenses paid party?
'Uh...Kou, is this normal to you?'
'What?'
'Getting set up like this and all the food and...Isn't Kanai-sensei going a
little overboard?'
'Ah. Well, he is nice to everyone, isn't he? But I guess this is because he's
our legal guardian.'
Tomo looked stunned. Kou was the ward of that man? Sometimes ignorance is a
bliss. Tomo had probably not been as open with Kanai-sensei had he known.
'Relax. It is not like we're his heirs. He's just looking after us until we
turn twenty or..Yeah.'
They both know how the sentence would have ended. 'Or get married'. But that
was not a topic either one of them was ready to talk about yet.
'Okay. Kou, are there any more surprises coming?'
Kou's face lost all color and for a moment Tomo feared he'd faint again. He
looked adorable and very nervous.
'I have to confess. Though you m..m..may have guessed. I'm really an Omega.'
'That's it? Or is there more?'
'That's it. Don't hate me, please.'
Forgetting his worries about Kou maybe not wanting to touch him again, Tomo
pulled him into an embrace.
'I could never hate Kou. Besides, I've known for quite some time.'
'What? When? How?'
'Remember that date to the Italian restaurant? When I was acting rather weird?
I'd just been told then. Again, I am sorry about that.'
Kou was trying to wrap his head around this information. Tomo had known for
weeks? But other than the first hour or so, he'd been just like before. Well,
maybe not just like before. There had been progress.
'That long. But you never said anything.'
'Because I feared Kou would leave me. And because I found out by accident and
wanted to hear it from you.'
'Accident? How?'
'Kou's brother, Suzuki Keiji, he told me indirectly. He misses you very much,
by the way.'
'Keiji...knows?'
Kou looked like he needed to sit, so Tomo plopped down on the couch pulling Kou
on his lap.
'Yes. I don't know all the details, but he got sent a letter after your
presentation, I think. He was talking about it to Mitsu-chan last Spring when
we went recruiting at the middle school. Well, I didn't know who he was at that
time. Nor had I gotten to know you yet, so it wasn't very relevant to me.'
Kou groaned. His little brother had received a letter telling him about Kou
being an Omega. And that meant Keiji had already known last Summer too. The
horrible Summer when Kou had done his best to hide the truth. All those months
he had distanced himself from his little brother to keep him from finding out,
he had already known.
'So...the day of our date, he was watching the game. He saw us kiss and came to
confront me about it. He's grown a lot since last Spring, hasn't he? Anyway, he
asked me if I was your Alpha. I said we were dating and he seemed to accept
that. I don't know if I had just brushed it off if Mitsu-chan hadn't just then
come there and asked how things were with Suzuki-kun's brother. When I saw them
together, I knew for sure he was the same boy.'
'Keiji knows about us too?'
'Is that a bad thing? Should I be scared of your fierce protector?'
Kou giggled. He hadn't known he could make such a sound, but the thought was
just too weird.
'No worry. I'll protect you both.'
'Maybe you should call your brother. Before he hears rumors and gets upset.
Maybe even invite him over with the others? There are plenty of movies and
games that are fun and suitable even for a fifteen year old.'
'You're right. I will. But...could you scent me first, please?'
***** What Do You Like on your Pizza? *****
Chapter Summary
     Now we have a happier chapter. I wonder if anyone remembers who Ayaki
     is.
Tomo and Kou had set up the gaming station. Kanai Satoru had brought a box full
of games and several newly released DVDs. The supermarket had delivered a bag
of necessities and another of snacks. Their stomachs were growling but they
were going to wait until the rest of the party arrived. A fourth guest had been
added suddenly. Maeda Mitsuo's boyfriend was coming too. Tomo and Kou were
among the very few who knew who this mysterious boyfriend was for they had once
bumped into the pair at the movies.
'You're okay with the 'enemy' entering this fine castle?'
Tomo burst into laughter. Sometimes Kou just took him by surprise.
'Well, he's my best friend's boyfriend. Besides, he'll be going to AOBI Uni, so
he isn't the enemy anymore.'
'I guess that is true. I'm ...nervous. My brother...'
'Your brother loves you. You are his hero. And mine too.'
'Hero? I'm just...'
'Hush! Kou is not 'just' anything. I remember very well how my hero stormed
into the crowd, grabbed me by the lapels and claimed me his.
Kou groaned, but couldn't help smiling. Then they both burst into laughter
remembering the incident. They eventually quieted down. Their eyes locked
together. Their eyes were saying things they had not dared to say. Tomo
swallowed. He was going to be proactive this time.
'Kou. I want you in my life. Always. Please, stay with me.'
'What are you saying, Tomo?'
Kous heart was racing. There was a hope springing in his heart, yet he was
afraid to let it flow. Tomo was trembling.
'I am asking you to be mine. When you are ready and until then not to let
anyone steal you away. I want to bond with you and I want to marry you when we
are old enough. I want to walk behind you, in front of you or by your side to
the end of the road.'
'Even though I am ..broken?'
'I do want you to get well. I hate that you hurt so much. But...even broken,
yes. I want you.'
'Uh. Let me think....hmm...Yes, of course, baka.'
'You're right about that. Proposing but I don't even have a ring. I am a proper
idiot.'
'Ring. So Tomo wants to mark me his?'
'Oi. Very, very much.'
A shiver ran down Kou's spine. It wasn't that that was not included in the
proposal for it was. It was just suddenly so real, so scary and so exciting.
Tomo was not talking about rings anymore, not metallic ones anyway. A ring of
teeth in the back of the neck. Everything inside him was already whispering 'My
Alpha'.
'Not quite yet, Alpha. Soon.'
There was a green fire in Kou's eyes when he boldly stared at his Alpha. Tomo
gasped and flustered. The doorbell rang and conscious of his duty, Tomo went to
open the door. Tanaka Yuki and Suzuki Keiji had arrived. Keiji looked at his
brother like a puppy waiting to be scolded, but ran into his big brother's arms
at the first sign.
'Gomen nasai, Keiji. I thought I did the right thing, but I was so wrong. I
won't abandon you again. Sometimes I have to leave for a while, but...'
'Kou-oniisan. I am so happy. Umh...Nii-san, you smell like Captain Ito.'
Kou laughed and ruffled his little brother's hair.
'Better get used to it. We just got engaged.'
Yuki whooped and tried to get a look at Kou's neck, so did Keiji.
'Nothing there yet. But soon.'
Tomo swallowed. There was that word again. Soon.
'What happened to Mitsu-chan?'
'He went to get one more guest. From the railway station. Should not take many
minutes.'
'Alright. Start looking at the pizza list to pick favorites. We're having a
party tonight. Also see what games would be fun to play. But no soccer
tonight.'
A few minutes later the doorbell rang again. Maeda Mitsuo and his special guest
stepped inside and took their shoes and coats off and said their greetings.
Yuki stared at the pair in confusion for a moment.
'Captain Hara-san? It is Hara-san.'
'Tanaka-kun. Oi, how come Tanaka-kun is here?'
Had the boys been wearing uniforms the question would have been partially
answered, but this was a casual night. Yuki had to vocalize his reason.
'I go to AOBI now. Katsuyama does not want Omegas in the teams, Captain.'
'And isn't that a shame. I'm not really the captain anymore. Finally free.'
Hara Takeshi wrapped his arm around Maeda Mitsuo's shoulder and pulled them
together. The surprise of seeing a familiar face had temporarily confused
Yuki's brain, but now things clicked. He gasped shocked.
'Hara-san and Maeda-senpai are a pair? Does Coach Fukui know?'
The two laughed and shook their heads.
'Probably not. But it doesn't matter anymore. Third year students have retired
and I have already been accepted to AOBI Uni. That disgusting bigot has no more
power over me.'
That was nothing at all like what Yuki would have expected to hear from the
former captain of Katsuro. He'd always thought that the whole team shared the
Coach's values completely. Well, perhaps with one exception though he wasn't
sure.
'Hara-san. How is Fujita-senpai?'
'He is alright. He is very determinate and studies hard for the entrance
examination. I am sure he will get in the medical school. And if not, he can
study useful subjects for a year and try again.'
Yuki nodded gratefully. Ayaki was alright. It was good to know even that much.
'Ano, sumimasen....'
Suzuki Keiji was staring up at Hara Takeshi, his eyes round with wonder.
'Hara-san is Hara Takeshi-san, Katsuyama Captain? The silver medal team?'
'Yes, young man. I am Hara Takeshi. I was the captain until the end of the
year.'
'Sugoi!'
Maeda laughed. It made him feel proud when his Alpha got recognition.
'Anata, this young man is Suzuki Keiji, the younger brother of our host Suzuki
Kou, whom you probably remember from the movie theater.'
'Hajimemashite, Suzuki-kun.'
'Hajimemashite.'
'Sorry to interrupt, but what do Maeda-senpai and Hara-san want on the pizza?'
***** Later Rather Than Sooner *****
Against all odds Suzuki Kou did not have any nightmares that night. Neither did
he have those tantalizingly erotic dreams featuring a certain Ito Tomoyuki he
had recently started to enjoy. Both were probably a good thing. The latter
would have been embarrassing the former scary.
That morning, Kou woke up next to his betrothed, his Alpha in all but deed,
Tomo. On his other side slept his friend, Yuki. The unattached Omega had been
placed in the middle of the other two more for propriety's sake than any real
fear that the middle school boy, Kou's little brother Keiji, would have tried
anything inappropriate. The other remaining sleepers were the former captains
of two rivaling high school soccer teams, Maeda Mitsuo and Hara Takeshi. The
last two slept tangled together. Kou couldn't help being just a little bit
envious when he tiptoed into the bathroom.
The impromptu pizza party had turned into a sleepover when they had realized it
was too late for Keiji to return to his dorm. For whatever reason the older
boys had decided to stay as well. It had put a dampener on any of the half-
formed, bold plans that had filled the Omega's head. 'Soon' was going to have
to wait for later.
Kou's life was changing in so many ways in a short time. There were good things
and there were bad things. Reconnecting with his brother was a great thing, so
was actually having friends again. Having finally been able to out his deepest
fear and shame into words had been like a volcanic eruption. The lava would
still burn a long time, but the awful sense of impending doom was gone. He had
revealed his worst side and been met with only support. But, because of the
incident leading up to the confession, he knew his time was up. In fact, it had
already been agreed upon. His things were being moved into the Omega Dorm
before tonight. If only there was another way, but there wasn't. Only married
or at least bonded university or third year high school students were allowed
to live in family units like this one that they were borrowing for the weekend.
The best thing in his new life was Ito Tomoyuki. Kou wasn't sure exactly when
his life had started to revolve around the Alpha, but it was before their first
date. Slowly, but surely Tomo had burrowed into Kou's heart and now, even after
everything, he had declared his intention of staying there. Kou was more than
fine with it, even if he felt selfish. 'Too bad for you, rest of the world. He
is my Alpha.'
'My Alpha.'
Kou tested the words in front of the bathroom mirror.
'My Alpha. My Alpha.'
A soft chuckle startled the Omega. He turned his head and saw Tomo standing at
the door.
'You called?'
Kou was mortified. His face turned lightly pink and he rubbed his neck
nervously.
'Uhm. I was just practicing.'
His Omega was practicing those two words. It hit Tomo deep in the guts that Kou
had probably not ever thought he'd use those words together. Of course Tomo had
no other Omega, but he'd always thought he would meet one someday. Always until
he fell in love with a Beta hedgehog. After the hedgehog had been revealed not
be Beta, Tomo had thought the words 'My Omega' dozens of times, but had not
ever said them.
'Then lets practice together.'
Tomo took a couple of steps to stand next to Kou in front of the mirror. He
laid his chin on the shoulder, watched his betrothed's face though the mirror
and whispered huskily.
'My Omega.'
The effect was beyond his dreams. Kou's back arched, he rubbed his reddened
cheek against Tomo's hair and gasped. Tomo was heavily affected as well, blood
was rushing to certain body parts and the need to claim was humming through his
brain. If only they had been alone.
'Scent each other somewhere else, please. We need to pee!'
Four pairs of eyes were peering at the flustering couple. Two were amused, one
was a little envious and one in awe. Kou escaped to the kitchen muttering
something about tea. Keiji followed his brother, since he was the last in the
bathroom line anyway.
'Nii-san, you really like Ito-san? I mean really...He...'
'Hai. I do. Very, very much.'
The younger boy turned pink while trying to find the right words.
'Nii-san wants to be bitten by Ito-san and copulate with him?'
Kou sputtered. What kind of a question was that to ask one's older brother? And
the word choice too. Copulate. Sounded like something from a biology book. But
even if it was invasive, the question deserved an answer. Keiji only asked
because he cared.
'Hai, Keiji. I do.'
'Oh. Okay.'
Keiji rushed past Tomo, who had arrived at the worst, or the best, time.
'That's okay by me too. My Omega. Whenever you are ready, Kou.'
If life were a manga there would have been a massive text WHOOSH! next to Kou's
head as well as loud heartbeats around them both. Both of their faces were
shaded pink.
'Tomo...'
'Soon, it is a promise.'
'A promise. Yakusoku.'
They hooked their pinky fingers in the cute, traditional way of making a
promise. It was a silly gesture, reminiscent of childhood. The water boiled and
Kou poured it over the tea leaves. One by one the rest of the party gathered in
the kitchen and began to hunt for something to eat.
Before the guests left, they helped put the futon back in the bedroom and the
couch cushions back where they belonged. They also took the big bag of trash
with them, so there wasn't that much left to pack. Keiji had taken the gaming
console and the game that came with it. The borrowed games they were told to
bring with them to the infirmary when they went in for a check-up at noon.
Suddenly they had nothing to do but to kill time. They sat on the couch,
holding each other.
'Kou, can I ask you something?'
'Uh, I guess.'
'How do you really feel about scenting?'
'What? I like it a lot. I wouldn't keep asking for it if I didn't. Why would
you ask that?'
'Because you never do it to me. They said in class that if an Omega really
likes you...'
It was true. Everyone knew about Alphas scent marking their mates, lovers,
friends, family members and sometimes especially prized possessions. For an
Omega to mark an Alpha was the equivalent of saying 'I'm reserving you. For now
and forever. Lets make some babies together.' Or maybe just 'I love you. Be
mine.' It wasn't that Kou wouldn't have wanted to scent Tomo, it had just not
been relevant at that time.
'Beta's don't scent. Or at least I thought they don't. But then I never thought
Betas would be scented either. So I may have been wrong. Uh. Since I was
supposedly Beta until yesterday it would have been weird. And then there is the
other thing.'
'The other thing?'
'Scent neutralizers. I've stopped taking those, but it will take time for the
residue to clear. I don't have very much of a scent.'
Tomo sniffed Kou's neck. The roasted almonds and salty caramel scent was there.
A little stronger, a little sweeter than before, but it was the same scent.
'You've always had your scent. Faint, almost undetectable, but there. I like
your scent and it is already getting stronger.'
'I like your scent too.'
Needless to say, they spent the remaining half an hour scenting and kissing
each other. When they walked hand in hand through the campus, people were
giving knowing smiles.
***** Of Sex Toys and Collars *****
Chapter Summary
     It is just plot.
An hour before the dinner bell, Ito Tomoyuki escorted his betrothed to the Beta
Dorm for the last time. This one time he was allowed to go up into Kou's room
except it wasn't really Kou's room anymore. It was bare of anything personal,
all the textiles, even the curtains were gone. Kou was only here to empty the
personal safe and set the code of the lock to the standard.
'You don't, didn't have a roommate?'
'Never very long. They gave up trying to find one after the first term.'
'I am sorry.'
'Don't be. If I had had one, I'd have had to move last Spring. Now I at least
have two friends there.'
'Why?'
Kou looked awkward, his face flustered and he turned to open the safe. He faced
the safe when answering, too abashed to look at the Alpha.
'If I had had a roommate, he would have known when I presented.'
Heat. His Omega was talking about having had his first heat. In this very room.
Heat. The word sank in Tomo's stomach and sat there like a pool of hot caramel.
He couldn't completely picture his bittersweet, innocent Omega in heat,
probably because he'd not seen him in throes of ordinary passion yet either.
But what he could imagine was testing his very limits right now.
'I wish I had been there.'
'No you don't.'
'…'
'I happened to have an infection in my respiratory system at the same time. I
was leaking as much of snot as... Anyway, it was not pleasant.'
Of all the fluids the body secretes snot is possibly the least erotic one. Or
maybe earwax. Even the description Kou had just given did not totally override
the initial reaction to heat, but it leveled his head just a little. He stepped
closer to his Omega and rubbed his upper arm. Tomo would have wanted to embrace
Kou, but the wall was too close and he had to make do with a minor touch.
'But you were scared, weren't you?'
'Hai.'
'Then I still wish I had been there.'
'We hadn't even spoken then, so...but thank you. I am sure you would have done
your best.'
There was a slight catch in Kou's voice. Tomo was not sure what it was, but
something was bothering his Omega, when he said that. Surely it couldn't be
that he'd had someone help him? Mine. My Omega. Do not touch. No, it was not
that. His Omega, despite a distasteful past episode, was still pure and
untouched. Waiting for Tomo to ruin him.
'What is it Kou? Something is bothering you.'
'Ah. Well, the first heat was horrible though cut short. The second with Pea
Soup-san...'
Every hair in Tomo's neck stood up and he practically growled out the question
'who?' Kou handed the box he had retrieved from the safe to Tomo. He was
clearly embarrassed, but also a little mirthful.
'That one. Open the box.'
Tomo lifted the lid. On a bed of black velvet was the most ugly, distorted,
muted green replica of a fully knotted Alpha penis. He almost dropped the box.
Of course he had his own toys for ruts and recreation, but this was still
somehow different. Vulgar and that color was just wrong.
'Uh. Green? Like...Right. Pea soup. Why?'
Kou looked away for a moment. He had almost laughed when Tomo fumbled with the
box. This question was awkward. He actually had to think a few seconds.
'Because it is so ugly. I hate, I hated the whole idea of...heats and things. I
chose that one because it looks unnatural and disgusting. They come in 26
different colors and four sizes. Batteries not included.'
Tomo had not really needed an advertisement for those things. But it raised a
suspicion in his mind.
'My Omega. Are you flirting with me?'
Kou's face went pink and he shifted his feet. He was clearly unaccustomed to
this, but also had a twinkle in his eye.
'I wonder.'
'I see. Kou, you also said you 'hated'. Does that mean that...You have changed
your mind?'
'I don't totally hate it. I think it could be alright, if it is you.'
The omega's face was now flaming. Tomo finally pulled him to his chest. He
nuzzled Kou's ear before whispering a sweet promise.
'It is me. From now on and forever. I'll always be there to help you.'
'Good. Mark the start of Summer leave in your calendar then.'
'Summer...but that is more than six months away!'
After having delivered the few items that had been kept in the safe to his new
room in the Omega Dorm, Kou rushed back outside to have dinner with his Alpha.
Tomo had to wait outside, naturally. Alphas were not allowed inside the Omega
Dorm at all. Betas could with a special license and only for very short times.
Luckily for Kou he had, as the student Council Secretary, actually visited the
dorm before and knew where to go. Yuki had not been in the room, which was
slightly troublesome for Kou, but he'd just have to rely on his Alpha for this
little task. He grabbed the thing he'd once sworn never to touch and took it
with him.
At the foot of the staircase he bumped into someone.
'Sumimasen!'
'Hey! Wait a second. One shouldn't take other people's things. Give it to me!'
'Not happening. It is mine. I do not steal either things or people. Clear?'
Suazuki Kou, the Student Council Secretary, did not stay to hear whether the
other person was clear or not, he did not have the time to argue with morons.
He politely muttered apologies as he made his way out to the building through
the gathering crowd waiting for dinner. He did not stop until he reached Tomo
and shoved the black thing in his hands. He was panting softly after the run,
which made his voice a little weird.
'Alpha. Please, help me put this on. Collar me.'
The Omega Collar was a safety precaution. It kept the Alphas' teeth from
reaching the scent glands, which made bonding impossible. It was allowed, but
by no means not required accessory at this school. Only very few Omega students
wore the telltale thing.
'Kou? Why? Don't you trust me?'
'Of course I trust you. It is the others I don't trust. Do you? Do you trust
every Alpha here not to try and bite me?'
'You are right. I don't.'
'Don't look so glum. It is not a permanent thing and it can be removed when
we're safe together.'
'I know. Lets do some scenting first, since it will not be possible with the
collar.'
'With pleasure, My Alpha.'
***** Tidbits *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
The rumors about the Student Council Secretary having collapsed at the
cafeteria had, naturally, circulated throughout the school. Some people thought
he deserved being brought down a notch, some thought it was a terrible thing
and most that it was okay since he didn't die or anything. The most popular
explanation was that Suzuki-san had finally presented, apparently as an Omega,
and been wheeled away to be mated to the Captain of the Soccer Team.
Tanaka Yuki sat on a soft couch with two of his fellow Omega soccer team
members, Minami Masato and Ueda Rikuto, talking quietly about the differences
in training between AOBI and Katsuyama. Every now an again, Yuki glanced at the
door.
'Tanaka-kun is really waiting for someone, isn't he?'
'Yes, I think so too Riku. What is going on?'
'I am getting a roommate today. Just waiting for him to appear.'
'Eeh? Another transfer this late in the year?'
'Not exactly. Just transferring to this dorm.'
The lounge was starting to get more crowded. Most had finished their homework
and were getting hungry. Like vultures they gathered to wait for the dining
hall doors to reopen. Tonight they had a topic to pick a part while they
waited. Having been at the pizza party last night, Yuki had missed the first
scene, but this rehash was making him ill.
They were talking about his friend in a manner that tore Yuki's heart. He now
understood why Suzuki had asked his gender to be kept a secret. If the Omegas
were this bad, how were the other two dorms taking the news? Yuki shuddered.
'Tanaka-kun, are you alright?'
'Not really. I am sad to hear all this talk about Suzuki-senpai.'
'Well, it is not like he doesn't deserve it. After stealing Maeda-senpai's
boyfriend. I for one don't believe in this 'mystery boyfriend' I think it was
made up just to save face.'
'Masato, I was there, you weren't. I believe the Cap.. Maeda-senpai. I need
still to apologize the the Secretary for that incident.'
'But why not just say the name? Ridiculous to wait until graduation day.'
Yuki was disheartened and encouraged by the comments of his teammates. He
sighed quietly.
'It is not ridiculous. I know who and why. But if you want to know ask Maeda-
senpai. About Suzuki-senpai though, I know you don't know me so my word hardly
counts. But think on this: If he was a bad guy, would both Captain Ito and
Maeda-senpai like him?'
Yuki felt he needed a little time alone and since he kind of needed to go to
the toilet too, he excused himself. When he returned, the lobby was a buzz.
Apparently Suzuki had come in and ran out with an Omega collar. Some student,
whose name Yuki could not remember, had apparently tried to take it from the
Secretary.
'He said he doesn't steal things and that it was his, but why would a Beta have
such a thing?'
'Haven't you heard the rumors...'
Yuki had reached his limit. He did not like confrontations, but sometimes it
was necessary. Now felt like the last chance.
'If it was not his then it was mine. My friend, my roommate is welcome to
borrow my collar should he so wish. I understand that Suzuki-senpai has annoyed
a lot of people. He does have a sharp tongue. But who of you has ever been nice
to him either?'
Yuki looked at the suddenly silent bunch of Omegas. He sighed resignedly.
'He's had hard enough a time. Please, don't make it worse.'
'Hey everyone! What's going on?'
'Maeda-senpai! Suzuki-senpai is moving in tonight.'
'I know, Yu-chan. I saw Tomo just a bit ago. They are going to town for dinner.
And speaking of dinner, I think it is about time we get ours too.'
The door to the dining hall was just opening. The four soccer team members
flocked together and found a table in the corner.
'So, are you good now, Yu-chan? Waking up was a bit hard for you this morning.'
'Well Maeda-senpai, it was a very long night. We went to sleep at what 3 a.m.?'
The other two, Ueda and Minami, were looking at the the speakers eyes wide with
questions. Ueda, the more outspoken of the two could not contain himself very
long.
'Maeda-senpai and Tanaka-kun slept together?'
Maeda Mitsuo had trouble keeping himself from laughing and could not resist the
temptation to tease.
'One could say so.'
It was funny, but dangerous. Yuki sighed.
'Maeda-senpai! Just so there is no stupid misunderstanding, we did sleep
together on the floor with four other people. And the stress is on 'sleep'. The
party lasted a bit too long so we all stayed and made a sort of a nest. No-one
even touched anyone's body except Maeda-senpai and...'
'And my boyfriend.'
Maeda was smiling so blissfully that no-one who saw it would doubt that there
was a boyfriend indeed.
'Your boyfriend?'
'Well, maybe a bit more. We've been talking about living together once we go to
the uni.'
'See, Masato, I told you there is a boyfriend. Just cannot understand the
secrecy.'
Maeda chuckled and shook his head slowly.
'Actually it is okay now to reveal his name. Yu-chan can explain better than me
why it had to be secret. I am dating Hara Takeshi, the former captain of the
Katsuro.'
If anyone at the table had happened to look behind Maeda's back, they would
have seen a face shocked white under hair with vivid blue stripes. Hara Aoi
left his meal half eaten and walked out. The soccer guys continued their meal
and Yuki talked about the coach at Katsuyama, who hated Omegas beyond reason.
Had coach Fukui known the captain of his team was seeing an Omega and even
worse, an enemy Omega, Hara's life would have been hell.
Maeda-senpai's relationship being cleared the ever curious Ueda turned to Yuki
next.
'Does Tanaka-kun have someone special too?'
Yuki looked down and rubbed the back of his neck.
'There is someone I like, but it is pretty hopeless. He stopped even talking to
me after we got the silver. So...No. But not looking either. Not yet. What
about Ueda-san and Minami-san?'
Both looked a little nervous, they glanced at each other twice. Then
uncharacteristically Minami spoke while Ueda sat there quietly waiting for the
other shoe to drop.
'We have each other.'
'Ah. Cool. My parents are both Omegas too.'
The relief on the faces of the two was tremendous. Yuki knew people still held
strange prejudices. He'd had to hear all sorts of comments about his parents
all his life. Even now he knew that these two supposed he had one step parent.
It was safest to keep it that way. No-one wants to be called weird for just
being born.
Chapter End Notes
     Hara Aoi made a short cameo earlier in 'Undercover Works'. No worry,
     when his part of the story starts, it'll explain that too. So no need
     to go digging.
***** Foot-in-Mouth Is a Dangerous Disease *****
Chapter Notes
     False rumors were born out of what Aoi said to Kazuhiko in Chapter 4
     of 'Undercover Works'. people interpreted what he said to be much
     worse, but what he did say was literally true.
      
     'And have you been alone with any of these friends or brothers when
     you are in heat? Or have you crawled on your knees begging for one of
     them to take the pain away, begging them to do things you really
     don't want to you and then be called Omega slut for it? If not, then
     you have no idea what you are talking about.'
      
     There was no rape or incest. This is, however, the start of the anti-
     incest part. In a later chapter people will discuss the issue. I'll
     leave a not at he start of that chapter, so it can be skipped.
The sky was crisp, powder blue of mid-Winter and the sun was nearing the
horizon. The beauty of it escaped Hara Aoi for his sky went starless black with
a few choice words.
'With a bit of patience I can train any Omega to properly worship my knot.'
Aoi stood totally still, even his heart felt reluctant to beat. Color left his
face and the cold wind wasn't the only thing making his hair stand up anymore.
'Once they are in their proper place, on their knees in front of me and
begging, it is done deal. They just cannot help being drawn to it.'
Aoi turned around and stalked away. His luck was enough with him that he did
not hear the laughter and comment that followed the disgusting statement.
'Well, that blue-haired Omega looked more repulsed than 'drawn' to Kobayashi.'
Kobayashi Yasunori spun around. His eyes stricken with panic. Now he had really
done it. Curse his ever present need to show up on everyone. Curse his vile
tongue. Why the hell had he spewed something lewd and stupid like that without
paying attention. What made it perhaps even worse was that it was all
fabrication.
'Can't blame him. That's the one who got raped by his brother, right? Or was it
the other way around?'
Yasu drew a deep, quaky breath. He had totally destroyed everything and could
never make amends. But he could at least try to set this straight. His voice
was only half the normal volume and he looked down voluntarily, for once in his
life.
'Listen, I talk an awful lot of shit and I know it. But that rumor is untrue.
It is a sad misunderstanding and hurt pride. That is not what happened.'
He could not elaborate without breaking the trust once given, hurting someone
even more than he just had. He could not tell anyone how and why he knew.
Objectively he only had the Omega's word, but no-one in this school was that
good of an actor. The reaction had been genuine.
'I need to go. Apologize.'
The other three Alphas were stunned. Over the school year they had gotten used
to hearing the most lewd, disgusting and annoying things spill out of
Kobayashi's mouth. They would never have expected to hear that word from him.
Aoi sat in the corner table of the cafeteria. He had a cup of tea in front of
him, slowly getting cold. He didn't feel like even drinking tea and food was
completely out of question. His bitter self-hatred had briefly made him
consider even suicide, but it was not the solution for him. He'd suffered in
silence, shunned and shunning everyone unable to forget and forgive himself.
Last Sunday, just five days ago, he had found out that his behavior had been
misunderstood. Not only was he a despicable, weak, sluttish Omega, but now
there were rumors that he and his big brother had actually done it.
It did not help that had had his brother Takeshi been a different kind of a
person it could have been true. Aoi didn't remember very much of the incident
except being in pain, whining and begging, weeping and being told to stop it.
Harsh words and a slam of the door. Despair, pain. Little brother Hitoshi
helping him blow his nose and the electric fan.
Last Sunday he had made a mistake. The mistake was not that he had not withheld
answering a very rude and intrusive question. The mistake was accepting the
comfort offered and thinking it meant something. That guy had said it wasn't
his fault that it was something that could not be helped. He had held his hand,
nothing more. Like an idiot Aoi had believed it could mean something that maybe
he had actually found someone nice. Someone who cared, understood and accepted.
When in truth, he had met the worst. The scene in the hallway, those words, a
fragile dream that had barely dared to whisper in his mind crushed under a ton
of bricks. Worship that dickhead's knot. Not likely.
'Hara-san. Gomen nasai. I am really sorry about what I said.'
The dickhead had arrived. Words of apology did not change anything. They could
not make words unspoken.
'Think nothing of it, Kobayashi-san. It is only typical for your kind. Excuse
me, I need to leave.'
'Hara-san, I...'
'Alpha Kobayashi, I do not see any reason why we should exchange more words
ever. Feel free to worship yourself. Good day.'
Aoi forced himself to stand straight, to walk at a normal speed and not look
back once. He would not shed a tear until he was in his room. Had he looked
back, he'd have seen a slumped figure sitting at the table, holding the
lukewarm teacup in his hands. Would that have made him feel pity or triumph
would never be known.
The teacup was slightly warm in his hand. Untouched. Abandoned. But unlike
himself, the tea had not done anything wrong. The teacup felt about as warm as
Hara-san's hand had felt that night, but not as soft, not alive. He wished he
could have cried, but it was forbidden. An Alpha does not cry. Not in public
anyway. He drank the abandoned, embittered tea and got up.
There was no point chasing Hara-san now. Nor did he have time, for he was
meeting the Head of Discipline Committee about that stupid prank he'd pulled a
week ago. A simple stupid thing had had frightening consequences. He always,
always kept getting into trouble. He had been kicked out of the first three
private schools he'd attended and even the neighborhood high school had
expressed a wish he'd not return. This school was his last chance, his papa's
husband was fed up with his antics, he knew. And he couldn't even blame the
man.
The man waiting for Yasu was not the the third year student he'd expected. It
was actually the top man of the whole AOBI School system and a big boss in the
research department as well, Kanai Sota. This could not be good. That that sort
of a man had been called to talk to him was never good. When one added the fact
that Kanai-sensei looked about ready to give birth, it spelled doom. So did the
expression on his face and the deep sigh.
'What am I supposed to do with you, Yasunori-kun?'
The young man hung his head. He had no good suggestions to give and he
suspected that the question was rhetoric anyway.
'It is not that you do terrible things per se. It is your attitude. Do you ever
think about how the things you do or say affect other people? You were such a
happy little boy, what happened to you?'
'I don't know, Kanai-sensei. But I am really sorry about Suzuki-san.'
'Pushing another student, even another Alpha, especially with no provocation is
unacceptable. What actually happened to Suzuki-kun because of your stupid idea
of fun, was not something you could have foreseen. You cannot be held
responsible for that, but your irresponsible action is still wrong.'
'Yes, Sensei.'
'You are not a genius, but you are not stupid either. You can belong here if
you want, but you keep on saying things that offend even your peers. Did you,
by any chance, learn the Dictionary of Vulgarities by heart? No need to answer
that. Hmm...'
Yasu's heart almost stopped. This was the decisive moment. Whatever came out of
that man's mouth next would be his fate.
'I am sending you to our sub-school near Sapporo. It is more of a monastery
than a school, but I think you need that. We'll evaluate your progress in July
and if, if you have matured and learned to behave in the way a young gentleman
of seventeen years should, you can return here next Autumn term.'
'Yes, Sensei.'
'Even those sentenced to death are offered a last request. Do you have one,
Yasunori-kun?'
'Hai, Sensei. Hara Aoi-san, please, do something about that false rumor about
his brother and r-rape, please. And if possible, tell him I am sorry for the
stupid things I said today.'
The request filled Kanai Sota's heart with new hope for his friend's son. It
was unexpected that he'd ask something for another person, a person Sota had
not even known he knew. He was concerned that he had not heard these rumors
either.
'I expect that is possible. Now tell me about these rumors and how do you know
that it is false?'
After a rather painful quarter an hour, Yasu had managed to tell all he knew
about the incident and how Hara-san had reacted to his stupid comment. He did
not say a thing about holding hands though. That was a private matter.
***** Getting There One Step at a Time *****
Chapter Notes
     Thank you guest for leaving Kudos! It means a lot here. *bow*
'So, the two of you have not actually had intercourse?'
The voice of Kanai-sensei wasn't distrustful, more like surprised. Suzuki Kou
wondered if he had ever blushed that much, he shook his head. The man staring
at the papers could not see that, of course, so he had to actually squeak a
'no'.
'Clearly something has been going on though...'
Kanai-sensei tapped on the paper he was holding.
'...These kinds of results do not just happen. It requires intimacy. How far
exactly has your physical relationship progressed?'
Had this been any other man, Kou would have told him to shut up in not
uncertain terms, but this was their savior. He and his brother owed, if not
their lives, the fact they had a choice how to live them to this one man. He
fought his embarrassment.
'Kissing. Scenting. Mmmm..licking...Nothing below waist.'
'Why not?'
Kou had added the last bit because he knew it would be asked and he'd hoped to
get out of it just with that, but now he had to explain the reason.
'Too dangerous. Couldn't risk being discovered being Omega.'
'So, not because of lack of desire?'
Tomatoes would have paled in comparison to Kou's cheeks.
'No, Sensei.'
'Yet, when presented the perfect opportunity to spend a weekend together alone,
it turned out quite differently.'
'Sensei...What...'
The offer of the apartment had been meant to give them a chance to do THAT.
Really? Didn't guardians usually try to keep their wards from engaging in
sexual activities? At least on TV they did. The scientist was again perusing
the paper.
'With these test results...the synchro level 4.67 and ...Never mind, what I am
trying to say that if Suzuki-kun wants to go ahead with this relationship it is
fine. If not then it needs to be cut off this second and even then it will be
painful. So, I need an answer. Does Suzuki-kun wish to bond with Ito-kun?'
This was getting worse and worse by the moment. The thought of bonding sent
some of the blood into the lower regions, but Kou's face remained still
flushed.
'We're engaged.'
Kanai-sensei dug into the lowest desk drawer and pulled out a thin booklet. He
handed it and two keys to Kou, who looked at the booklet then at Kanai-sensei
and finally the floor.
'I take that as a yes. Hmm...I really would have thought you had already...In
this case there is something that needs to be done...'
-----
Kou left Kanai-sensei's office clutching onto the booklet. Ito Tomoyuki stood
up and met his Omega just a few steps from the door. Something had stirred up
Kou visibly, he did not even need to use his nose to determine that. Tomo
wrapped his fingers around the back of Kou's neck and kissed him softly on the
forehead.
'What is it, My Omega?'
Without a word, Kou handed the booklet to his Alpha. Tomo studied the cover
somewhat confused.
'100 most popular positions?'
'He...He wants us to try these out before...Well, so we can be sure I won't
panic when the time comes...'
Kawaii! Kou was so adorable when he flustered that way. It made Tomo's heart
thump in a different way from the underlying speeding pulse caused by the idea
of trying any and all positions with this pure and precious Omega. 'Mine. All
mine. Only mine.'
'Oh Kou. I am going to ruin you so.'
'Ruin?'
The question was innocent. Perhaps Kou hadn't read the same kind of stuff he
had. Tomo lowered his voice into a soft, throaty whisper.
'I'll take you, mate you. Make you squirm with pleasure. I'll sink into you,
knot you and fill you up. I'll take away your innocence and replace it with
passion. I'll turn all your fears into pleasure.'
Kou's knees buckled. Apparently he was susceptible to that kind of talk. But
then, he wasn't the only one. Tomo could not help being affected by the desires
he'd put in those words. That time was not yet. He ruffled Kou's hair.
'But first we need to practice. Sensei is right. Nothing could kill the mood
better than having you turn into a quivering mess for the wrong reason. Where
do we do this?'
'Sensei suggested the Dojo. We can be private, but if something goes wrong
there are people close enough to help.'
'Sounds like a good plan.'
-----
An hour later they had worked up to position 27 and were both sweaty and
bothered. The borrowed karategi pants were chafing and uncomfortably hot. They
had not ran into problems so far, not in the sense that Kou would have had any
flashbacks. Their problem was that if they kept this up, they would not be able
to keep their parts in the pants much longer.
'This is not going to work. Kou, lets just try those that have you pinned
down.'
'Yes, Alpha.'
There weren't many such left in the booklet. Further on the positions required
more and more flexibility and balance. Tomo suspected the source at least for
those had been Kama Sutra. They were in the middle of trying out position 58
when the door to the small warm-up room slid open and a very deep voice almost
growled. A big Alpha in full karategi with a brown belt stood there frowning.
'What is going on in here?'
Later they thought it was a really good thing that Kou answered. Because an
Alpha having pinned a collared Omega to the ground and pushing himself between
his legs in most cases would not be a good thing. Nor would have it been a good
thing if the Alphas had started to fight.
'We are trying out sex positions.'
A head poked through under the big Alpha's arm. Murabe, the Beta from the pool
was peeking in curiously.
'You are what?'
'Trying out these positions in this booklet.'
'What? But why here? And why...pants?'
The two on the floor looked at each other and burst into laughter. Tomo was
also finally able to get his voice heard.
'It would not be exactly proper to be naked at the Dojo, don't you think?'
'We're here to make sure unpleasant memories don't surface if I get touched. No
details.'
The big Alpha peered at Suzuki. Then he looked at the Beta next to him. Then
again at the people who were now disentangling.
'I thought that the Secretary was a Beta?'
Tomo positioned himself between Kou and the threat of an another Alpha.
Interestingly Murabe did the same. The Alpha pulled Murabe into a tight
embrace.
'Murasaki Ryo. I am not looking for an Omega. Try to get it into that thick
head of yours.'
'Murasaki Haru, grab me like that again and you will suffer. I've got the moves
as you know.'
Given that the beta was also dressed in Karate uniform and had a brown belt, he
probably did have the moves. Kou should have probably made the connection
immediately when Murabe had given his name at the pool, but he had had other
things in mind. This Alpha-Beta pair was fairly famous in this school.
'Murasa-san, Murabe-san. Everything is fine, please. I am not going to steal
anyone's boyfriend, I promise. I already have this one, the only one I want.'
Kou's words pacified Tomo. The feisty Beta was also calming down, being crooned
by the Alpha. Apparently Alphas did that to Betas too, if they were involved in
a relationship. Who would have known.
'My Alpha...'
'Yes, Omega mine?'
'Maybe we should continue this in the apartment. Sensei gave me the keys.'
Kou blushed and Tomo's insides twisted strangely. Was he imagining it or was
that an actual proposal to take things further?
'But first we should find food. Would be sad to run out of energy when things
get interesting.'
'Kou...Do you mean...'
'Hai.'
'Excuse us, we're going home.'
***** When 'Soon' Becomes 'Now' *****
Chapter Summary
     In case there is someone out there who wants to read just the plot
     and not the ecchi stuff, please, skip to the notes at the end. :)
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
They truly had tried to eat, but the food had felt like sawdust and tasted like
it too. The fault was not in the food, it was in the eaters. After five minutes
and only a few bites swallowed they gave up.
'Lets just take it with us. We can eat it later.'
Kou nodded and gulped. Later was a simple word usually, nothing to get nervous
about normally. Right now it meant something momentous. It meant after The Deed
was done. After they had joined together in the most intimate way possible. It
was a thrilling thought and a frightening one. Kou wasn't afraid so much of the
physical part, he trusted Tomo could guide him through that. What he wondered
was if it would change him somehow? Would the Kou after still like the same
things, still hate the same things as the Kou now did? Would his world shift
sideways again like the day he had presented as an Omega? Or the day he had
finally admitted that he wanted everything with Tomo?
The waiter who came to put their meals in little boxes seemed to look at them
knowingly. The people they passed by on their way to the apartment seemed to
know what they were about to do too. Either they were that transparent or Kou
was imagining it. Tomo looked confident, even arrogant, the epitome of an Alpha
displaying his captured prey. Almost like a stranger. But his hand in Kou's
hand was warm and trembled little.
They did not speak on the way. It was not far, but the silence made the
distance stretch. Neither could think about anything other than what they
planned to do and that did not make a safe conversation. At the door they
stopped. Tomo lifted Kou's hand to his lips and kissed the fingers.
'Kou, are you absolutely sure? Once we pass that door it will be harder and
harder to stop.'
The eyes that looked at Kou were not arrogant, they were Tomo's eyes. There was
something in them, something burning, something gleaming, something primal that
sent a message into the Omega's brain and made his body shudder.
'Hai. I am sure.'
Tomo let Kou unlock and open the door. A small gesture to assure free will for
he could have done it himself despite of the shopping bags.
'Feel free to use the bathroom first. I'll put these things away. Wait for me
in the bedroom.'
Ito Tomoyuki drew a deep breath and started to empty the bags. He needed to be
prepared to steel himself and stop if Kou still was not ready in spite of what
he had said. Maybe he should suggest going slowly? Just touching a bit more?
Maybe a hand job? Tomo put the odorless lubricant on the counter and was
reminded of Kou's expression at the store when they were picking it out. Hah.
This was going to be harder than he had thought.
Everything neatly stored in its proper place Tomo took his turn in the bathroom
and walked into the bedroom. On the futon cross-legged sat the completely nude
Kou. His arms hid his outer genitals, but the sight still robbed Tomo of his
breath. He wasn't seeing that much more than what was revealed by the swimwear,
but the effect was a hundred fold. Situation made all the difference. His Omega
was beautiful. His voice caught in his throat and he didn't quite yet have the
words.
'Kou...'
Suzuki Kou had sat there almost five minutes and it had felt like an hour. He'd
fretted and he had anticipated the look on his Alpha's face and his reaction to
how he was waiting. Judged by Tomo's face he'd surprised the Alpha just by
being naked. Tomo did not look upset, but Kou still wanted to explain.
'Ah. I am a bit shy about stripping, so I thought to get it over at once.'
The deep blush and anxious expression on the upturned face tugged the
heartstrings of the Alpha. Maybe he would have wanted to carefully remove the
clothing off of his hedgehog one garment at a time, but this was not about just
his fantasies. Tomo closed his eyes and tried to steady his breathing, the
Omegas delicious scent of caramel and roasted almonds invaded his nostrils,
stronger than ever now that the scent neutralizers had worn off. He sent quick
thanks to whatever gods might be watching that he was not dealing with heat
pheromones. Even this was assaulting his limits.
'Uh. That's fine, Kou. I just...Before anything else, I need to know what you
wish for tonight.'
He removed his jacket and necktie while he waited for the Omega's answer.
Perhaps it was unfair to ask a virgin to elaborate, but Tomo did not want to
make his omega to curl up in a spiky ball. He pulled the lubricant out of the
pocket before hanging the jacket on top of Kou's and removed his socks. The
Omega was still hesitating.
'Kou...I want to touch you. Everywhere. And I want you to touch me. Is that
alright?'
A nod and a blush.
'My Kou, I want to kiss and lick you everywhere and hope you will do the same
to me.'
A whimper, deeper blush and a nod. He is too adorable. Tomo turned around and
removed his pants. He wasn't sure why he turned his back, but it felt like the
right thing to do. He hung the pants neatly, mostly to give himself a few
seconds before facing the question he needed the permission beforehand. With
just his underpants and the dress shirt Tomo sat on his knees in front of Kou.
'Kou...Do you want to go all the way? And even more importantly, do you want to
bond with me tonight?'
'Hai. Hai. Bakatomo, Just be the Alpha. Take me, bond me ruin me...Like you
promised. Kudasai.'
The last word was an afterthought, but Tomo did not mind. He wasn't into all
that begging thing anyway. Being called 'baka' just made him smile, it meant
that Kou was still Kou even now. The shirt came off followed by the underwear.
Totally exposed and already erect he waited for a sigh from the Omega. Kou
gasped, whimpered and blew Tomo's mind by immediately turning over and
'presenting' himself to him. This was not going according to the plan of taking
it slowly and being careful.
'Kou...'
'Just do it, Alpha. Please. Need this now. Please. Talk later.'
Everyone has their limits. This was not how Tomo had pictured things, but when
his Omega asked that way, how could he not comply. It was not anything he
didn't want himself after all. He spread Kou's butt cheeks apart to get a view
of the glistening entrance. Lubricant was not needed after all and both of them
having been tested disease free and Kou still on birth control they had no need
for rubber between them. Tomo teased the slick entrance with just the head. The
Omega made a soft sound, somewhere between a mewl and whimper.
'My Omega, I am going in...'
'Oh yes, Alpha.'
Kou braced himself. This was the moment. It was really going to happen. It was
going to be fine, since it was Tomo, Kou's Alpha. He was leaving childhood
behind and becoming part of the adult world. He was a little nervous but not
scared. He was excited, but not overcome by lust. When he felt the Alpha
beginning to slide into him, the the topmost feeling was that of victory. The
idea that Tomo was inside him was a dream come true and it made Kou happy to
have accomplished it. Everything was as it should be.
'Are you alright, Kou?'
'Hai. Are you?'
Tomo laughed, which was enough of a reply. Then the laughter was cut short as
the Alpha stared to move. It was not at all the same as the vibrator. It was so
much more. Kou's back arched and his head snapped back another whiff of Tomo's
personal scent and Alpha musk entered though the nostrils and the open mouth.
His insides were quivering and the pressure in his penis was getting near
painful. The strong, long strokes continued causing plasure that was bordering
torture. Then the slightest shift took place and Tomo hit the sweet spot. Kou
cried out, his inside clenched around Tomo's cock. The knot that had been
forming for a while had a rush of blood and inflated to its full size.
The first release happened simultaneously and right at that moment Tomo's teeth
clamped around the scent gland in the Omega's nape. The bond that they had been
working on without realizing it completed. They had already been Alpha and
Omega to each other emotionally, now it became so also biologically. It was an
indescribable feeling. Whether it was the hormones released or simply the
fruition of their love made no difference in practice. Perhaps it was the
combination of both.
Being tied together by their lower bodies felt amazing, but it made facing each
other difficult. After a few tries they managed to turn Kou around. They lied
there, holding onto each other, gazing into each others eyes until the the
pleasurable waves waned.
'Oh Kou, I wanted to give you so much more...Wanted to make it perfect for
you.'
Kou had no idea what his Alpha was being regretful about, but maybe it did not
matter.
'I think you were perfect, Alpha.'
'My innocent Omega. Just wait for the next time.'
Chapter End Notes
     And so, after pining for a long time, they did it. Ito Tomoyuki and
     Suzuki Kou are now a bonded pair and engaged to get married. And
     because they did this 8 days before Kou's 18th birthday it is by the
     rules underage sex. For where they live the age of consent is lower
     than 18 and they still have a while to go until they are 20, which is
     when people come of age.
     Tomo and Kou are classmates. They are a couple of months away from
     finishing 2nd year of 3-year high school. Because the school year
     begins in the beginning of April, Tomo who was born in May is the
     older one of these two. He'll be 19 on his next birthday.
***** The Penitent *****
Chapter Summary
     Ayaki was mentioned in the very first chapter, but he's not been
     heard of very much. Here is the first part of the story what has been
     going on with him after Katsuyama got silver in the Nationals.
Fujita Ayaki was not one of the lucky people who had the leisure to only study.
He had held a part time job ever since he turned sixteen. Three nights a week
and most weekends we waited tables at a small cafe. The work itself was fine,
but he hated the outfits. Thankfully he did not have to wear the worst of them,
mostly just the frilly apron. Even that chafed his Alpha ego.
Now he was going to a special course for those entering AOBI Uni, working and
trying to study for the entrance examination. He was already accepted to the
university itself, but he wanted something special. Getting into the AOBI
University Medical School was hard. It was even hard for those who went to the
special high school that was affiliated with the university. Ayaki did not hate
the AOBI students, he envied them. For someone, who was not among the wealthy
or ingenious it would take near 100% success with the test and impressing the
interviewer.
He had hardly ever any free time. Not until next Saturday, when he would pour
everything he had learned on that test paper. He swore to himself that right
after he would go visit Katsuyama High, the school he would be graduating from
even if he currently had no more classes there. He would go see the soccer team
and he would at least apologize to Yuki-kun. He had tried to call a few times,
but kept getting the message that the phone was 'either turned off or outside
service area'. His e-mail had not gotten a reply either. Maybe he was getting
just what he reserved.
The guilt washed over him again like a tidal wave. It had been a horrible
mistake, horrible and beautiful mistake. It was no consolation that no laws had
been broken when his own moral code had been crushed. It did not help his kohai
had initiated it or that the actual love making had been the most beautiful
experience. By the law Yuki-kun was not a child, he was old enough to consent
or even seduce someone to have sex. But age was not the only way to measure
maturity. Ayaki had thought Yuki-kun was a Beta and he was fine with that. He
usually only played with Betas anyway though there had been a couple of Alphas
as well. The truth had hit him in the morning, when he saw his teeth marks on
the nape of his partner's nape and he remembered feeling a gland between his
teeth. Betas did not have a scent gland like that. He'd had sex with and he'd
actually bitten an unpresented boy. It was not a crime, but in his own books it
was unforgivable.
The memory of the pale skin, smiling eyes and gentle hands returned. And the
words that had broken down his defenses. 'I really like Ayaki-san. If Ayaki-san
would kiss me, I would be so happy. I don't think I have much time left.
Please, help me make a memory, Ayaki-san.' A beautiful memory that had turned
into a nightmare. Afterwards he had thought about things a lot and come to the
conclusion that he was fine with an Alpha-Alpha relationship as long as the
other one was Yuki-kun. But that did not mean Yuki-kun would feel the same way.
The door opened downstairs. His brothers had returned. They would be making tea
soon and just being in their company would make him feel a little better. He
owed them so much. He would get a good job and he would support them so they
would no longer have to work these long hours. Ayaki padded down the stairs.
'Welcome home, Yukio-niisan and Tomio-niisan.'
'Little brother, you look stressed out. Are you alright?'
'I'm fine. It is only a few more days. But I could use a cup of tea.'
'Of course. Tomio was just about to make some. Come, sit down.'
Tomio and the tea arrived a few minutes later. The brothers sat side by side at
the table all facing the TV, Ayaki in the middle. He didn't care what the
program was, some person was singing and that was fine. He took a sip from his
cup and let his brothers' familiar scents envelope him. The headache he had not
noticed he'd had disappeared and he relaxed. His brothers were wonderful and
he'd repay them for all they had done for him some day.
Ayaki woke up on the sofa covered with a very soft plush blanket. He must had
fallen asleep at the table and his brothers had hoisted him up. He'd dreamt
about Yuki-kun again. A sweet, innocent dream of those golden days when the
leaves were falling and the younger boy had smiled at him so adoringly. Ayaki
really was the worst kind of a human being. The amount of sake he had had at
the silver medal mourning party wasn't enough to be even an excuse.
Sighing heavily Ayaki got up and folded Yukio's blanket neatly over the
handrest. He had an extra half an hour, so he made breakfast ready for all
three of them. Last day before the examination, then wait for the possible
invite to the interview. He was not ready, he needed at least one month more.
Part of him wanted to stay home and study, but the more rational part told him
that skipping classes would be the worst way to impress the AOBI staff. He made
the rational choice.
Two hours later he wished he would have stayed home. It was not the blood or
the injuries themselves that bothered him. That he could handle. However
knowing all those injuries were caused by another human being, usually an
Alpha, made him sick and sad. Things only got worse. The lecturer moved from
involuntary injuries to those a human being had purposefully inflicted upon
another either to get something they wanted or to exact revenge or, maybe even
worse, with no clear motive. This part was not included in the normal High
School version of this course, but these students were considered to be in the
university and were treated as adults.
'It would be nice to live in a box lined with cotton candy, would it not? Most
of you here have lived a happy, sheltered life and it may be tempting to think
that everyone has it as good. But that is not true. Bad things happen to
ordinary people every day. Most of those bad things are done by the people the
victim knows and trusts. Random acts of violence are rare. It is true that
Omegas are targeted more than the other two genders, but with just a little bad
luck anyone can be a victim.'
'These injuries here are not the worst part of it though. Can anyone make a
guess what it is? I'll give a hint: All of these people survived.'
Since no-one else was willing to give it a go, Ayaki raised his hand a bit
hesitantly. A nod from the lecturer turned everyone's attention to him.
'What about the invisible injuries? Emotional scars. Possibly psychological
consequences. Both for the victim and the one who caused the injuries in the
first half. As for the other half, what is wrong with the people who would do
something like that in the first place?'
'Indeed. Physical injuries are in most cases curable much more easily than
emotional damage. Very good, Fujita-san. We'll speak more about this next time.
Tomorrow is the examination day so those who are not taking any are free. Good
weekend!'
Ayaki had to recant an earlier thought. He was not the worst kind of a human
being. Compared to what he had seen, he was a flea. It did not mean that what
he'd done was alright. Fleabites could lead into inflammations. He still needed
to make amends to Yuki-kun. Somehow.
'Hey Fujita!'
'Hello, Hara! You look happy.'
It was true. Hara Takeshi was pretty much beaming.
'Ah. I have a date tonight. Finally free to date without worrying about that
coach.'
'I see. You're dating Omegas then.'
Ayaki did not play with Omegas, though his reason was completely different from
what the Katsuyama coach Fukui's weird reasons.
'Omega. Singular. We've been actually going out in secret for the whole
year...You remember the Captain of AOBI soccer team, right?'
'What? But you'd never even shake his hand. I thought you despised him.'
'Of course not. We worried that our reactions would out us. So it was better to
avoid contact. Funny thing, you were the only one of the third year crew that
was always polite to Michio.'
Right. The AOBI Captain's name was Maeda Michio. If Hara was using just the
first name, their relationship was not a game. Good. Omegas were not toys.
'Well, the coach could not really punish me for showing some manners, could he?
And I toed the line otherwise.'
'Yes. You did. I always thought you agreed with that bastard. But you don't do
you?'
'Of course not. That man is bitter. And just stupid. Our whole species would
die out if he had his way.'
'Yoy really are such an Alpha. Breeding on top of your mind. Have eyes maybe on
some sweet Omega already?'
Ayaki hoped his blush did not show. Sometimes a darker complexion was a
blessing.
'Ah. There is someone but he's not Omega. And it is pretty hopeless anyway. How
about you and your captain?'
'Huh. Well, we're planning on moving together and bonding. But no kids until
after we finish school. He'll go to AOBI Uni too. Hey..Maybe you could go out
with us sometime? When we go with friends, not on a date.'
'Maybe. But I have these exams and all for now, so later in the Spring.'
***** The Hidden Bond *****
It was finally done. The exam had been excruciating. There had been a small
multiple choice section with very sneaky questions and the scoring system that
gave 1 point for a correct answer, 0 for nothing and -0.5 for a mistake. Most
of the exam, however, had been writing answers to questions. The short ones
were tricky as it was hard to decide how much to put there, the essays took
time and required planning to get everything one wanted to say out in the
correct order.
In the end, Ayaki had gotten a call back to an interview. The interview had
been nothing like he had expected. It had been conducted by an Omega, who
frankly looked ready to give birth any moment. When the man had introduced
himself as Kanai Sota, Professor of Sociology and the Head of Research for the
Institute Ayaki had not been surprised that he was an Omega. What surprised him
was that such a high ranking person was spending time asking him questions
about his family, school life, soccer and friends. Kanai-sensei had also been
interested in his part time job. The discussion had rambled into various topics
that had nothing to do with application.
He was now free to wait for the letter that would tell him his fate. Not that
it would change his first year that much, he'd still be taking Chemistry,
Biology and Biochemistry as well as the subjects that were obligatory for
everyone. If he failed this time, he'd just try again next year.
Tonight he worked, but tomorrow was his day off. He'd visit Katsuyama High in
the afternoon and try to see Yuki-kun before the soccer practice. He'd not been
in any contact with the school or its students since the New Year. Except for
Hara Takeshi, who was taking the same preparatory courses as he did, of course.
On his break he tried to call Yuki-kun again with the same result as before. No
service. He wasn't even sure what to say if he did get to talk to him. Maybe he
should just concentrate on the apology.
When Ayaki returned from his ten minute break the cafe had filled up. Over by
the window there was a group of AOBI students and four other tables had new
clients as well. His co-worker was looking frantic, so Ayaki headed immediately
to the closest table. The two young men wore Katsuyama colors and they looked
slightly familiar. Their conversation stopped Ayaki in his tracks.
'So sad about what happened to Tanaka-kun. Collapse like that in the exhibition
game.'
'Yes. Poor Yuki-kun. Such a waste of talent. He'll be missed'.
Yuki-kun had collapsed. Yuki-kun was dead? Ayaki remembered again those words
that had persuaded him'I don't think I have much time left. Please, help me
make a memory, Ayaki-san.' They now took on a very sinister meaning. Air left
Ayaki's lungs in a desperate wail.
'Yu-kii...'
At the window table a young man winced and grasped the back of his neck. It had
been itching for days, today worse than ever and now it was burning. Hearing
his name, Yuki turned around to see one of the waiters on his knees on the
floor. He blinked. He knew that head. Why was Ayaki-san here wearing that
stupid apron? Why was Yuki thinking about a stupid apron, when there was a more
critical issue at hand? Without even thinking about it he moved and fell on his
knees in front of the man who had looked at him with such a sad face that
morning after the National Finals.
'Ayaki-san?'
The sadness Yuki remembered was nothing compared to the expression on the face
now turning to look at him. The anguish, the tears, the disbelief turned into a
joy. Yuki's nape hurt with every heartbeat, but he ignored it. They embraced
and Ayaki kept whispering.
'Alive. Yuki-kun is alive. Alive. Alive...'
Scents vaguely familiar alerted Ayaki's brain. His eyes flew open as the
realization hit. Yuki-kun was alive. Yuki-kun was not an Alpha. For the second
time he stared at teeth marks on the same neck in horror. Yuki-kun was an
Omega. An Omega who belonged to someone else. He let go and bent his head.
'Of course I am alive. Ayaki-san...'
'Gomen nasai. Tanaka-san, I apologize for touching like that. I would not have
had I known.'
Yuki froze. For a moment he had thought all was well. Now the words he had
heard so many times over the months they had been on the same team game back to
haunt him. Ayaki-san had even gone back to using his surname.
'It is I who should apologize. I knew Fujita-san does not play with Omegas. But
when I heard my name, I...Gomen.'
'Is he at least good to you?'
Overcome with emotions, Ayaki lapsed into very informal speech. Right now he
was relieved to form a coherent sentence. Yuki's nape ached and he tried to rub
it.
'Who?'
'Your Alpha.'
Where was that creep anyway? It was not that Ayaki wanted to get beaten up,
though if that guy was treating Yuki-kun badly, he was ready for murder. Why
did that guy leave Yuki-kun alone like this?
'I don't have one. Why would Ayaki-san even ask that?'
'The mark on your neck. Bond mark.'
Yuki took his hand off of the burning spot. His brain was working feverishly.
He could only come up with one explanation, but it was incredible. He'd never
heard of anything like it.
'I have a mark? But I have only ever been bitten once. If I have an Alpha,
isn't that you, Ayaki-san?'
Suddenly aware of the crowd gathering around them Ayaki looked at Yuki in the
eye and saw nothing buy honest wonder. Part of his brain also registered the
clothing the younger man was wearing.
'Maybe this should be discussed in a bit more private place? As Yu-chan's
chaperon, I suggest one of the booths.'
'Maeda-senpai has a point. Ayaki-san?'
Ayaki got up and held out a hand to Yuki. He looked around seeing curious faces
everywhere, including the one he was searching for.
'Hinata-san. Gomen. It seems I need to take a bit more time off. Right now.'
To the great disappointment of the audience, Ayaki, Yuki and Maeda slipped into
the booth furthest away from the door. Ayaki did not know how to address the
most important issue, so he started by touching Yuki's sleeve.
'AOBI?'
'Hai. I transferred right after I presented. Katsuyama, like Ayaki-san, does
not like to play with Omegas.'
Yuki was nervous and his neck hurt. Slightly less now, but it was still
painful. Ayaki gasped and under his tan his face flustered.
'That is totally different. Different kind of playing. My brothers...'
'Ayaki-san has brothers?'
'Two. Gomen. It would have been unwise to speak of them under coach Fukai's
rule. I do have two older brothers. I swore I'd never make anyone suffer like
them. Yet, I have now, haven't I?'
Maeda had made himself almost invisible for a while. He had given all that he
knew and all that he was hearing now a long thought.
'Yu-chan, is Fujita-san the 'impossible' love who stopped talking to you after
the Nationals?'
'Hai, Maeda-senpai.'
'Fujita-san...I think you two have unwittingly bonded. If you want to break it,
I'll call for help. If you want to keep the bond...I know this sounds weird,
but...lick Yu-chan's gland.'
'Uh. Why?'
'Because he is in pain. The bond is not quite complete. If that mark is really
from that day...It should help with the pain. At least that is my theory.'
It was not just a little embarrassing to start licking someone's nape while
another person watched them closely, but if Yuki-kun was in pain and Ayaki
could help, how could he refuse?
'May I?'
Yuki bent his head giving Ayaki the best possible access to the back of his
neck. The mark was throbbing. For a second Ayaki's breath tickled the skin then
the warm tongue traced the outline of the scent gland. The pain melted away,
replaced by pleasure.
'Hah. Well that settles it. He would have screamed if those teeth marks
belonged to anyone else. Congratulations! Now how are you going to break this
to your uncle, Yu-chan?'
Yuki chuckled.
'Maeda-senpai doesn't quite know Sota-ojisan then. He'll be overjoyed to hear
of this scientific phenomenon of bonding before presenting.'
'Ah. That is so. My mistake. Kanai-sensei is indeed a man of science before
anything else.'
Ayaki gasped loudly. He knew that name. He was in so much trouble now.
***** Will You Bond with Me for Real? *****
The scent of marzipan and whipped cream was so thick that Ayaki could
practically taste them on his tongue. Whatever suppressants Yuki-kun was using
did not stop the scent when touching the source directly. Was it luck that
Ayaki was one of the few people he knew that liked marzipan? Or would he never
even have been attracted to this person if he did not? Those were questions
often debated and no-one knew the answer.
However, there were more urgent questions to be answered. For example how does
one confess to the man who has the power to grant or deny one's lifelong dream
that one slept with and unintentionally bonded with his nephew? Or how to
confess to one's brothers that one was just the kind of stupid Alpha that just
plunged ahead with no care how others felt? Or how to confess to Yuki-kun how
he actually felt about him?
Maeda dug a phone out of his jacket pocket and looked at it for a moment. A
smile spread on his face. He got up and started walking towards the front door.
'Back soon. Behave yourselves, please.'
Ayaki and Yuki were alone though not in complete privacy. Their backs were
turned to the rest of the cafe, but their heads could be seen by anyone looking
that way. Ayaki knew he could trust that his co-worker was keeping the other
booths empty for now, so they could at least talk quietly without being heard.
'Alpha. I am sorry. I did not know something like this could happen. I just
wanted one memory.'
Yuki's voice was soft, quiet and trembled a tiny bit.
'I've never heard of such a thing either. It is not your fault. Please, stop
apologizing, Yuki-kun. I am the one who should be begging for forgiveness. I
chose to sink my teeth there and didn't even stop when I felt the lump. Until
then I thought Yuki-kun was a Beta and then Alpha when I noticed what I had
between my teeth.'
'But Alpha would never have been in that situation, if not for my selfish wish.
It was wrong to ask for that when I knew Alpha did not want to do such things
with Omegas. I just thought it would work out, since it was before I
presented.'
Every time Yuki said 'Alpha' something inside Ayaki's stomach hurt. It was like
pouring salt on a wound.
'Yuki-kun, don't call me that. Please.'
'Alpha?'
Yuki looked confused and perhaps a little hurt. Ayaki winced and nodded. He
finally understood what Tomio-niisan had meant.
'It makes me feel like I am no longer a person. Not an individual, just a
designation.'
Yuki wasn't sure what to make of that request. It was a request, not an order.
But he did not want to push the other one into making it an order.
'How should I address...?'
'Uh. Like before? Ayaki is fine.'
'Yes, Ayaki-san.'
It was better. Not perfect, but better. He wished he could do something about
the awkwardness he was feeling.
'If Ayaki-san does not wish to be my Alpha, I understand. I have caused so much
trouble.'
Ayaki groaned. That was not one of the things he had trouble with at all.
'Yuki-kun...I planned to seek Yuki-kun out and ask if...Yuki-kun would go out
with me. I was prepared to argue that there was nothing wrong with us both
being Alphas. So this is a bit...strange.'
'Ayaki-san only likes Alphas and Betas?'
'No. That is not it at all. Why would Yuki-kun even think that?'
Yuki made quotation marks in the air with his fingers.
'Quote, I never play with Omegas, unquote. Sounds almost like something Coach
Fukui would say.'
'And is the total opposite from what that pig would mean. Look, Yuki-kun...'
Ayaki took out his phone and fiddled with it only a few seconds. He held it up
for Yuki to see. The picture showed a little younger Ayaki between two slightly
older men.
'My brothers, Tomio-niisan and Yukio-niisan. I owe them everything. They have
worked so hard to take care of me, to pay for my school. They are the most
wonderful brothers anyone can ask for and I hate how they get treated. My
brothers are both Omegas.'
'Omegas?'
'Hai. That is why I don't toy with Omegas.'
Ayaki wanted to say so much more, but time had ran out. Maeda returned with
Hara Takeshi at his side. The latter was looking at Ayaki with one raised
eyebrow.
'Fujita. Isn't this an interesting development. What happened to 'He is not
Omega'?'
'Uh.'
Ayaki was bothered with an Alpha so close to his Yuki-kun. He had never felt
this possessive and that in itself annoyed him. Yuki retracted further from
Ayaki looking at him pain clearly showing on his face.
'Ayaki-san has a ...love..er?'
What the hell had Hara thought saying something like all of the sudden? Ayaki
was boiling inside. He was so tired of trying to be good, trying to apologize
for everything and trying to be gentle.
'I love Tanaka Yuki. Have for months. That I did not know he is an Omega has
nothing to do with it. I love Yuki-kun, Do you have a problem with that?'
'Perhaps not a problem. But several questions.'
A voice Ayaki had never heard, but which still sounded eerily familiar, called
from behind. He turned his head to find two men standing right behind them.
Yuki bounced on the table and from there into the arms of the newly arrived.
'Papa! Father! He loves me. Did you hear?'
Ayaki studied the group carefully. These were Yuki-kun's parents apparently.
One of the men looked so much like Yuki that they had to be closely related,
the other one looked familiar too. How troublesome. He would have really liked
to talk alone with Yuki-kun about everything. He stood up and bowed.
'I am Fujita Ayaki. Hajimemashite. I am in love with your son. Please entrust
him to me.'
'Tanaka Takumi. Hajimemashite.
' Tanaka Yūta. Hajimemashite.
They bowed in unison, but did not reply to the proposal in any way. Had Ayaki
ever imagined how he'd proposed marriage, this would not have been even close.
Yet, they were bonded and Yuki-kun didn't seem unhappy about his love
confession. It would be hard to juggle university and helping to support the
family, but he'd do it. He'd probably need a new job though, for after tonight
being fired was almost certain.
'Yuki, how do you feel about this? Wait...'
The man who did not look like an older copy of Yuki took a small step forward
and looked at Yuki's nape. He pointed it to the other man who also came to see.
'Bonded. How exactly did that happen?'
The Alpha in a frilly apron looked crushed. There was not way to explain this
away. He was at a loss of words. Yuki apparently did have words.
'I seduced him after the Nationals. At some point he kind of bit me. Then I
presented and had to transfer. The mark started itching a few days ago and
today it hurt. This is the first time we have seen after that morning.'
Ayaki flinched. The bare bones version did not sound as horrible as it could
have been, but it was not flattering either. Yuki was rubbing the bond mark,
which drew more attention to it. He needed to, at least, let them know he had
not purposefully abandoned Yuki-kun.
'I kept trying to call. And sent e-mail.'
He almost lost his balance when Yuki flew into his arms.
'Ayaki-san! Gomen. My phone got lost at the exhibition game, I have a new
number now. And that e-mail address is probably deleted by now. Ouch!'
'Are you alright, Yuki-kun?'
'I'm fine. The mark just started to burn again.'
Ayaki paled and blushed. He could hardly start licking Yuki-kun's neck in front
of his parents, could he? The two older men looked at each other then nodded.
The one who looked like Yuki, grabbed Ayaki by the hand.
'Fujita-san with me. Yūta, call your brother. I think it is incomplete.'
'Hai.'
'Is there a room where we can talk privately, Fujita-san?'
Ayaki nodded. He was already so screwed that taking an outsider to the staff
room wasn't going to make much of a difference.
'This way, please.'
The door closed. Ayaki was pretty much expecting an attack, but Tanaka-san
simply sat on the bench and motioned him to join him. Nervously Ayaki sat.
'There is still time to reverse the bond. Fujita-san, what is it you really
want?'
Would he bite Yuki-kun again if he could turn back time to that moment? No. As
he was now, he would instead properly court him. But that was not an option. It
was now all or nothing. Reversing the bond would be painful for Yuki-kun and
take years. It would also be pointless, since even if Ayaki had to wait those
years, he'd still want to bond with Yuki-kun.'
'Tanaka-san, it will not be easy at first. I have to finish school to get the
kind of a job I need to support my family. But I can do it. No, we can do it.
Other students bond, marry and live together too. This all happened so fast,
but I don't want to lose Yuki-kun.'
'I see. As Yuki's father, this discussion is traditionally my responsibility.
But I am also responsible for teaching that child to go after what he really
wants and fight for it. He is our miracle. If you hurt him, I will make you
feel an Omega's wrath. Understood?'
'Hai, Tanaka-san. Wakarimashita.
'Call me Father, Ayaki.'
Father. That meant his proposal had been accepted. At least by the parent. He
needed to ask Yuki-kun too. It felt wonderful to say 'Father' after such a long
time too.
'Arigatō, Father.'
There was something nagging at the back of Ayaki's mind. Though there were
exceptions, most people called the parent who carried the child and gave birth
'Papa' and the other parent 'Father'. Father and Omega's wrath felt strange.
This man was the spitting image of his son. But if he was an Omega, would he
not be the Papa? Confusing.
'If Yuki wants to go through with this...and I would be astonished if he did
not...You two will need to complete the bond. Tonight. Otherwise it will just
start to hurt more and more each day.'
'Yes, Father. Arigatō, Father. My shift ends in 15 minutes. I should go do what
little I still can.'
Tanaka Takumi nodded. At least this young man took his responsibilities
seriously. He stood up and they left the cramped little locker room. Ayaki
smiled and waved at Yuki-kun and got a shy, happy smile in return. He'd talk to
Yuki-kun as soon as he finished work.
The cafe was full. Poor Hinata-san. Except Hinata-san wasn't working the floor
alone. Three other people had put on the hated apron. Hara, Maeda and some AOBI
student Ayaki did not know were taking and delivering orders under the guidance
of Hinata-san.
'We have this covered. Go talk to your Omega.'
It hit him like a frying pan on the head. My Omega. Mine. His brain had
processed the information, he'd heard everyone say that Yuki-kun was Omega.
He'd licked the boys neck and scented the delicious sweet and bitter
combination that was just right. He'd proposed and been accepted. All this he
knew in his head. With Hinata's words he felt it in his guts. My Omega.
Swallowing nervously he made it back to the three members of Tanaka family.
'So Ayaki, you are not 20 yet, are you?'
'No, Father. August 20th.'
'Who is your guardian?'
'Both my brothers, Yukio and Tomio.'
He fretted telling his brothers what he had done. Their expressions when they
had found out he wasn't a virgin would be nothing compared to what they'd look
like finding out what he'd done to Yuki-kun.
'Your parents have passed away?'
'No. They are somewhere in Africa. At least the last we heard. They left five
years ago to 'fight the injustices of this fucked up world'.'
'I don't even know what to say. I mean they are probably helping people and
that is good, but they abandoned their children for five years. It is sad.'
'Arigatō gozaimasu, Tanaka-san. We are used to it now.'
'Papa.'
'Arigatō, Papa.'
Yuki rubbed his neck and whimpered quietly.
'Does it hurt that much, Yuki-kun?'
'Only when I touch it. It is bearable otherwise.'
Ayaki did not want to give Yuki-kun the bite here. Somewhere a little more
romantic. Even just outside would be better. But first he needed to say
something, even if it felt a bit redundant.
'Tanaka Yuki, do you wish to properly bond with me and when we can, marry me?'
'Hai!'
Ayaki it his lip and twitched. Tanaka Yuuta picked up that there was a problem.
'What is it, Ayaki? Would you prefer privacy for it?'
'Hai, Papa. And this is not...a suitable place. Memories.'
Ayaki wasn't perhaps the most eloquent speaker, especially now. But his meaning
got conveyed fine. The older men smiled at each other. Tanaka Takumi had a
suggestion.
'How about a helicopter ride? Tokyo at night is quite beautiful. We can take a
taxi home.'
It was the first, but not last, time Ayaki flew in a helicopter.
***** Icy Reception *****
Hokkaido, the northernmost of the four big Islands of Japan, might not be as
cold as the North Pole, but it was plenty cold enough for Kobayashi Yasunori,
who had always lived near Tokyo. Snow covered the ground around the hill where
the 'Blue Temple' stood. There was an actual temple on the school grounds, but
most of the buildings were much more mundane. Mundane and old. Old and cold.
The dormitory room Yasunori shared with five other boys was freezing at night.
The others did not have it as bad as him though. They were all much more used
to the climate and they all slept in a pile. Apparently most students did that
and those not invited felt the cold not only in their bodies but also in their
hearts.
It was no use. It was too cold and sleep was not coming either. Students were
not supposed to leave the bedrooms at night, but there was one small exception:
toilet. That is where Yasunori fled the room where he was almost invisible.
This whole place was horrible. It was like a voluntary prison camp. Voluntary,
because if he wanted to leave, he could. Only problem was that if he left he
had nowhere to go. No school, no home. No friends. For a moment there had been
someone, who could have been a friend. The image of teary eyes with huge pupils
and thin dark amber rim and the ghost of a soft hand haunted him again.
His own eyes were moist too and his jaw tense. He did not like the image he saw
in the mirror. And he hated this red collar they had made him wear here. He dug
his fingers under the collar. It was loose enough for that and yet it choked
him. The effect on the other students had been noticeable. As soon as their
eyes fell on the collar, they all dropped their gazes or turned around.
Yasunori almost yelped as a face appeared next to him on the mirror. A student
with rather long and weirdly wavy hair stood there looking at his own
reflection and muttered something. He had a gray collar on his neck.
'What to do...What to do...What can the Untouchable Prince do when even the
slighted hint of displeasure in his voice leads to people disappearing? Talk to
no-one ever again? Wouldn't that be sad?'
'Ano, sumimasen. Are you alright?'
Yasunori blinked. Had he just tried talking to this strange person even though
he knew no-one spoke to him. Rejection, almost ostracism, hurt.
'Ah. It is nothing. Just thinking about my graduation story.'
The other students eyes flickered on Yasunori's collar, but he did not change
his behavior. He was not offering any help to the conversation, but he did not
leave or turn away either.
'Sumimasen, what is a 'graduation story'?'
'All who have been sent here must write a story confronting his problems. Real
problems set in a fairytale.'
'Weird, isn't it?'
It was the weirdest thing here and that was saying much. The whole place was
like a foreign land with strange rules of conduct.
'It is.'
The other student turned to leave. Yasu felt panic starting to rise. No-one had
spoken to him since the first day. Other than the teachers, but even they
avoided directly addressing him. For a moment he had felt like a person again
and now that guy was leaving.
'Ah, excuse me! One more thing, why did you talk to me just now? Are you color
blind, maybe?'
'Because I was asked politely. And no, I am not.'
Strange how much it meant to have a stranger to notice one enough to share a
short conversation. It was not that he had never been lonely, in truth he had
been lonely pretty much all his life. But it was still different when people
purposefully avoided contact. Yasu rinsed his face once more before heading
back to the cold corner in the bedroom. He had that review in the morning, so
some sleep would be good.
The very tired Kobayashi Yasunori stood in front a desk in an office. Behind
the desk sat a severe looking man. Probably in his sixties, Yasunori thought,
noting the wrinkles and the thinning silver hair. The nameplate on the desk
said: Kondō Itsuki, Principal.
'Sit down, Kobayashi. We have been reviewing your case. You are not stupid.
Your schoolwork is at an acceptable level. Therefore it has been decided that
you have no regular classes at the moment.'
Yasu's expression must have clearly stated his confusion, because the principal
continued.
'It is also clear that you do know how a person should act, but you still act
in a negative way. If it was only others that were unhappy about it, it would
be ignored. However, we think it is you who gets hurt by it most, Kobayashi.
Your behavior is self-destructive. Therefore, you will be working hard and
thinking hard. First task today is to accompany Asahina to the post office. Go
get dressed and wait for him at the gate.'
Clearly dismissed Yasu stood up, bowed and left the room. He went to the
lockers that were bigger here than in any school he'd ever visited. They did
not host only the shoes, but the winter coats and stuff as well. He got dressed
and wondered about this Asahina person. There wouldn't be that many students at
the gate and he could always ask. The problem was that he did not know if he'd
get a reply.
Yasu was the first to arrive at the gate, but he did not have to wait long. A
boy, first year judging by the color of his scarf skipped happily over to him.
The boy stood there quietly, eyeing Yasu's red scarf. The silence hung heavy
over them. Yasu bowed.
'Sumimasen, Asahina-kun? I am Kobayashi Yasunori. Yoroishiku.'
'Asahina Yukio. Yoroishiku.'
Again the same pattern. He got at least a polite reply, but nothing to drive
the conversation forward.
'The Principal told me to go to the post office with Asahina-kun.'
'Hai.'
The boy did not waste words, but simply turned and walked out the gate. Yasu
blinked and followed. He knew the post office was in the village, some 30
minutes away. If they did not speak, it would be an awfully long walk.
'Ano, Asahina-kun is local?'
'Hai.'
Kamisama! His questions were replied, but there was no initiative from the
other's side. Again.
'Sumimasen, have I given offense somehow?'
'No.'
'Then why, please, tell me why Asahina-kun and everyone else too, will not
speak to me.'
'The red scarf and collar.'
'I still don't understand. Forgive my stupidity.'
'Forgiven.'
Yasu was losing his mind slowly. It was like the whole school was making fun of
him.
'What the hell was that for an answer? Talk to me properly already!'
The boy did not respond at all, only kept walking down the road. For a moment
Yasu felt like catching the kid and forcing him to reply. But that would not
really accomplish anything good.
'Please. Tell me.'
'The red is a warning color. We only respond to polite conversation and never
initiate anything.'
The boy's voice was quiet, somehow tired. He did not seem to be enjoying this
either. Was there anything that could be done? Maybe there was a thing he could
at least try.
'Asahina-kun could you, please, talk to me normally?'
Asahina did something that looked like a victory dance, which confused Yasu
more than anything so far on this journey.
'I'd be happy to do that. So, is Kobayashi-san really from Tokyo?'
The rest of the way was so much easier. There were a couple of times when
Asahina shut up suddenly and Yasu had to apologize and rephrase his lines, but
he was learning fast. Or perhaps relearning, for before he had become that lewd
mouthed attention seeker, he had been a normally polite boy. He told Asahina
everything the younger boy wanted to know about his home city and the AOBI
School there and got a lot of important information about this place as well.
It was almost like having a friend. Or a potential friend.'
When they arrived at the tiny post office, it was almost empty. There wasn't
much to see there, only the counter, some packaging materials and some
postcards. Yasu stopped to look at the cards for a while.
'Does Kobayashi-san have someone in Tokyo waiting for a card?'
'Not exactly. But I think I will write one anyway.'
Yasu bought a wintry scenery from Sapporo, which was supposedly close. Close
was a relative term, for it was over an hour away by car, but at least it was
in the same prefecture. He wrote the message first and then frowned. He
realized he did not know how to write the recipient's name properly. He felt
idiotic using hiragana like a child, but it would get understood. He felt that
using the wrong kanji would be even more embarrassing. He slapped both hands on
his cheeks and posted the card. It felt like the right thing to do.
***** Beginnings *****
Fujita Ayaki awoke in a strange bed, in a strange room and in a strange house.
The snoring figure next to him, however, was not a stranger. It was the snoring
that convinced Ayaki that this was not a dream, he'd never dreamt of anyone and
least of all Yuki snoring. The sound was quiet and rather cute, not the kind
that would wake anyone.
Trying not to disturb the sleeper, Ayaki looked around. The bedroom was
spacious, probably as big as their kitchen and living room at home combined.
Other than the size it did not look that different from most of his friends'
rooms he'd ever seen. A desk, chair, books. Television and gaming console in
the corner with some green pillows nearby. A cabinet filled with trophies, many
trophies. Then there was the futon. It was just the right mixture of soft and
firm and it was big. The sheets were soft and smooth and the green blanket was
both huge and fluffy. Interestingly it was the only soft and fluffy thing
around. At least in theory Omegas liked soft items and Ayaki's brothers rather
proved the theory. Then again he liked soft and fluffy things too, though he'd
rather die than admit it in public.
Brothers. The thought of having to confess to his brothers what he had done. It
wasn't that he did not worry about other people too, but his brothers were the
most important people in the world to him. Most important save one. Ayaki's
gaze fell on the still sleeping Omega. The blanket had slid off of Yuki's
shoulders leaving them bare. Ayaki carefully pulled the blanket up not wanting
Yuki getting cold. Being this close to his mate, his Omega, his Yuki felt so
peaceful, so right. All too soon this moment would be gone and Ayaki would need
to face the troubles he'd turned his back on last night.
'Mmh. Ohayo!'
'Ohayo gozaimasu, Yuki. Are you alright?'
The sleepy, bright smile was an answer in itself. Yuki preferred the face of
Ayaki this morning than the last time they woke up in the same bed. Worried
expression was far better than the horrified one.
'I'm fine. Ayaki-s...You are alright?'
'Genki. Your neck, does it hurt?'
Yuki did not think 'genki' described Ayaki at all. Something was clearly
bothering the Alpha.
'It is a little sore, the burn is gone now that it is complete. Nothing to
worry about. Ayaki...What is the matter? I can tell you are worried.'
'It is...I'll have to tell my brothers about everything...'
'Your brothers are that scary? But I thought you said they were Omegas?'
Ayaki couldn't help chuckling at that. He'd recently met some rather impressive
Omegas even scary ones.
'As if Omegas could not be scary. But no...I just hate to disappoint them.
Yuki, please, don't misunderstand. I am happy that we are here. That we are
bonded. It is just that I am ashamed of...Well, you were still a child.'
Ayaki felt lame. It was impossible to explain exactly how he felt.
'I am not a child. Nor was I one a few weeks ago. Ayaki, I made my choices. I
wanted you and I thought it could be that once. The only thing I regret is how
it made you feel. Your face that morning...'
Yuki swallowed. It still hurt to remember that horror on Ayaki's face when he
had woken up and realized the situation.
'If I could take it back and still have you here this morning I would. Even
though every other memory of that night is...precious.'
'Oh Yuki. You are precious. And you are right. If it had not happened, we
probably wouldn't be here right now. I like being with you.'
Ayaki blushed and looked bashful. The corner of Yuki's mouth twitched. Was this
really the same Alpha that had declared his love for all to hear at the cafe?'
'Ayaki...I...'
A loud knock interrupted the sentence.
'Young Masters, time to wake up. Breakfast is served in 20 minutes and Ayaki-
sama's brothers should be arriving within the hour.'
Yuki groaned. Why did it have to be this morning? The look on Ayaki's face was
almost worth the embarrassment.
'Hai hai!'
'Umh. Young Masters? Ayaki-s...What?'
'Oi. This is kind of complicated. Gorō-san likes to sometimes pretend to be a
butler. This seems to be one of those days. Please, indulge him. I don't quite
understand it, but it is best to play along.'
'If he is not a butler then who is he?'
'He is a cousin of sorts to my papa. I am not sure what exactly happened in the
past, but somehow he owes his life to papa. Most of the time he acts like the
assistant he is, but sometimes...Anyway if we are to make it in time, we should
shower fast and get dressed.'
Surprisingly they made it to the breakfast table in time. Yuki's parents were
also ready to eat, so after the exchange of greetings all four of them sat
down. A man in an old-fashioned butler outfit appeared and served the tea.
Ayaki felt uncomfortable. The house was big and modern, obviously expensive.
The butler person, even if he was a fake, made Ayaki feel even more out of
place. This was the lifestyle Yuki was accustomed to and he had no idea how
many years it would take to be able to afford even a semblance of it.
'Father, Papa. Did you have a good run?'
'Yes, we did. Since we only had an hour, we made it a bit faster than usual.'
'Right. The coach suggested it when I explained about a suddenly busy morning.'
Yuki smiled and nodded. Ayaki smiled politely and wondered about people who
thought running an hour before 7 a.m. was 'only'. The butler person reappeared,
this time with a phone, which he handed to Tanaka Yuuta. A wide smile appeared
on the latter's face as he read the message.
'We have a healthy nephew. They are calling him Hikaru. Wataru says he'll send
pictures later today.'
'Hikaru? Wataru and Satoru...They have this 'ru' thing going on? Sōta doesn't
feel like the odd one out then, I guess.'
'Probably not, since it was his idea.'
Yuki was smiling happily at the news. Ayaki was baffled. It wasn't that he did
not know the people mentioned that was normal. But did one congratulate new
uncles? Parents, grandparents and siblings certainly, but he wasn't sure about
uncles. Yuuta stopped tapping a message in return and turned to face Ayaki.
'My brother, Kanai Sōta's son was born just three hours ago. I believe you have
met him?'
Right. That was the thing he had forgotten last night when looking at Papa
Yuuta. Kanai Sōta was Yuki's uncle, his papa's brother. That was why he'd
looked familiar immediately. Ayaki groaned mentally. He'd been so concentrated
on his brothers' reaction that he'd forgotten to worry about the man who
decided his future.
'Yes, Papa. I was interviewed by him. I was hoping to make it into medicine
this year.'
Yuuta nodded, his concentration on the phone briefly.
'He says: 'Tell that young man I'll be watching him.'
Being watched by someone like Kanai Sōta could be either a great thing or a
scary thing. Ayaki was definitely feeling the latter, but he forced a smile
anyway.
After breakfast Yuki and Ayaki moved to a living room. It was a nice
room,elegant and modern. It still felt like a room people actually used daily.
The wall facing the window was notable. It was covered with trophies and
medals. Ayaki moved closer to take a look, Yuki followed.
'They really enjoy their marathons. They've been running as long as I
remember.'
'They are quite good, aren't they?'
'Yeah. They usually win the Omega division.'
That was amazing. Ayaki had never given a thought about running a marathon and
while he must have known there was an omega division, it had not really hit
home until now with the physical evidence in front of his eyes.
'Not much longer. We're getting older and there are new young men competing.'
Tanaka Takumi had arrived behind the two carrying photo albums. Yuki groaned.
'Father, please. Not my childhood pictures.'
'Bear with it son. I am sure Ayaki wants to see.'
One tells a doting parent that one does not want to see pictures of his child
only at one's own risk and Ayaki had to admit himself that he was a bit
curious.
'I do. I am sorry, Yuki. I am sure you'll get your revenge later.'
They sat on the floor and Takumi started to show pictures. The first ones were
of two young men Ayaki recognized to be Yuki's parents long ago. Takumi looked
almost like Yuki's twin with an outdated haircut.Yuuta was pregnant in them,
which made little sense. Had they lost a child? At least he'd never heard of
Yuki having, or having had, a brother. It was not something one could ask.
After two pages a baby appeared. The caption said simply 'Yuki'.
'After Yuki was born both of them had to stay in the hospital a couple of
weeks. It was agonizing. They did not want to grant me visiting rights and kept
asking for his Alpha. That's when we made up the story of accidental heat.
Finally they accepted that there was no Alpha in this family and with the copy
from family registry, I got to see Yuuta at least.'
'When we got home, Taku hardly let me hold Yuki for the first two days. He said
he needed to make up the lost time.'
Yuuta knelt next to his mate, wrapped his arms around his waist and laid his
head on his shoulder.
'Even then Yuki looked more like Taku than me. It was not easy to let people
think all sorts of things, but it was still worth it. Yuki got to be a normal
child.'
The photos continued showing an adorable little boy growing into a fine young
man. A fine young man that looked very much like his father. Ayaki was a
logical person at the core. Puzzle pieces were falling into places and the
picture revealed was unexpected.
'Ano, am I understanding this correctly? Yuki is actually the son of both of
you? Genetically?'
'That's correct...'
An angry voice made them all turn their heads towards the entrance.
'You! What have you done to our brother?'
***** Only the Fifth Still Stands *****
Chapter Notes
     Some lovely stranger left kudos. It means so much to get one after
     such a long time. Arigato!
Fujita Tomio was upset. If one had wanted to use other words they could have
included dismayed, anxious, unsettled or agitated. The word he'd refuse utterly
was intimidated. Seeing this, this Bastard here after more than five years
combined to the in itself alarming text message both he and Yukio had received
last night was frightening. But showing fear would be the worst thing right
now. What the hell was with that butler outfit too?
'Inoue Gorō. Where is my brother?'
Gorō had not heard that name in a long time and it still made his eyes sting.
His nostrils flared to catch every whiff of the scent he still dreamed of at
nights. Had he known that one of the Fujita brothers was this person, he would
have hidden himself. It was his own stupidity not to check the given names of
the guests arriving. Had he really looked at the young groom, he possibly would
have made the connection too. But he did not stare people and Fujita was a very
common name. Tomi-chan looked gorgeous though perhaps a bit fatigued and right
now very angry. This was the worst kind of an accident. Every cell in his body
was screaming, but he had to endure a few more seconds.
'Welcome. I am called Tanaka. All the gentlemen are in the first room to the
right.'
Tomio looked like a storm cloud ready to burst, which made Yukio step in the
lead. Nothing would be accomplished by having a scene at the entrance. The
priority was their younger brother and the negotiations. Whatever the ransom,
they would need to come up with the funds. There was no alternative. Yukio
grabbed his brother's hand and removed his shoes urging Tomio to do the same.
Then he inclined his head to the butler and led Tomio to the right.
The scene was beyond anything he could have ever imagined. His little brother
tied to a chair, someone holding a gun to his head, several thugs or even
someone wielding a whip while smiling sadistically had crossed his mind. Four
men looking at family photo albums, however, almost short circuited his brain.
Yukio no longer understood what was going on in this room for hostage situation
it did not look like at all and something odd was also going on with Tomio. The
younger Omega was shivering and seemed about ready to pass out. When the world
turns upside down, routines can come to the rescue.
'Konnichiwa! Fujita Yukio and Fujita Tomio. Hajimemashite!
One of the older men stood up and introduced the three Tanaka members and
wished them welcome. When they were motioned to take seats, Tomio awoke from
the near zombie like state he'd been the last couple of minutes.
'Sumimasen. May I use the toilet, please?'
Their hosts nodded. The one who had spoken before, Tanaka Takumi, motioned with
his hand back to the way they had entered.
'Of course. That hallway, second door to the left.'
'Arigato. Yukio, handle things here, please.'
Tomio was on a hunt. His nose still held a trace of Gorō's scent, but he wasn't
tracking his prey by scent alone. Something akin to ethereal rubber band was
tugging him into the right direction. He was already starting sweat profusely.
His skin was heating up, pores were opening. How dared that Bastard reappear
now that his life had just been starting to stabilize. Tomio was angry, hurt
and upset. Too many times he had suffered alone, today he'd make the Bastard
take responsibility. He slid open a door panel.
'I found you.'
'Nngh.'
The floor was littered with garments. Tomio scanned the room with fevered eyes.
A slight sound turned his gaze towards the back corner. There was the Alpha in
all his naked glory smelling beyond divine. The pheromone intensity in the room
was alarming, any smart person would run from it, but intelligence is the first
thing to leave when instincts take over. More clothing started to appear on the
floor.
The past disappeared, the future disappeared. It would all come back later but
in this moment of time the only thing that mattered was here and now. Without
even thinking about it, they came together. Two men, an Alpha and an Omega, the
Heat and the Rut. They did not speak, they could not think enough to make up
coherent sentences. They weren't silent. The sounds they made were instinctual,
primal and were understood only on that same level. Their bodies moved almost
on their own, frantically trying to become one person.
In the living room verbal communication was taking place. The news had left
Yukio speechless for a few seconds, which was enough for Ayaki's shoulders to
drop and Yuki to spring into action. He got on his knees in front of his
Alpha's oniisan and bowed down in a formal apology.
'Gomen nasai, Fujita-san. I was the one who seduced Ayaki. I apologize for the
trouble it has caused him and your family. Ayaki has not done anything wrong,
please. If anyone needs to be scolded, I am that man.'
Yukio would have liked Tomio's support right now, but he was still gone. His
brother had acted strange since the moment they stepped in this house. But he
had another brother here, the little brother, who was watching with a sharp
eye. The Alpha moved next to his mate and got him to climb back on his feet.
Ayaki wrapped his arm around Yuki and faced his eldest brother eye to eye.
'Yukio-oniisan. We did act recklessly, there is no denying it. I did something
that will probably make Tomio-niisan hate me. But even then, I cannot say I
would turn back time and make it undone. I am not unashamed of my deeds, but I
am taking full responsibility. And more, I want to do it. No matter how things
got started, my place is next to Yuki. If scolding is to be done, we will hear
it together.'
Yuki looked at his mate in awe, while rubbing his back encouragingly. Yukio's
eyes misted. His little brother was acting grown up. It made him feel happy and
somehow sad. Somehow this was more fundamental than Ayaki moving to the
university dorm, he was leaving their little nest completely. There would no
longer be the little brother waiting for them to return from work at night.
That was not a happy thought, but more importantly there would not be the Alpha
to steady Tomio when he went through his worst days. Tomio suppressed most of
his heats, but he fell into a dark abyss probably at the times his heat should
have happened. Bonded and abandoned the same day with no explanation. Tomio
could not get another mate, could not even take a sex partner. But because he
had been thrown away, he needed an Alpha in his life to soothe him with his
scent. It would be exhausting trying to go through that just with one Omega.
This was a delicate matter and not something discussed on the first meeting.
Ayaki's happiness was also important.
'I see. If the two of you are happy, then who are we to judge?'
'Oniisan! But what about Tomio-niisan? Won't he be angry about the weeks...I
left Yuki alone?'
'Probably. But he'll understand. You did not really leave, did you? You went to
prepare a 'nest'. Isn't that why you poured every bit of yourself into the
studies?'
Ayaki blushed. He'd not thought of it that way, but now that it was said aloud,
it made a lot of sense. He wanted an interesting job that also paid enough to
provide for his family.
'Probably. I think you may be right.'
Yukio turned to the masters of the house and bent his neck.
'Sumimasen. We have discussed family things completely bypassing Tanaka-san and
Tanaka-san.'
'Ie. That's alright. We are here to talk about families, aren't we? Of course
this is only a preliminary talk. Your lawyer can present a proposal next week.'
The Fujita brothers stiffened, looked at each other eyes wide. The gap had just
appeared in the middle of the room.
'We don't exactly have a lawyer. Perhaps yours can make the proposal. But
before that it is vital to discuss things with Tomio, because this will affect
him directly.'
Where was Tomio anyway? It must have been fifteen minutes now. Yukio glanced
uneasily to the door, but there was nothing to indicate anyone approaching.
Tanaka Yūta picked up on their guest's worry.
'The tea is late too. Perhaps I should go check on that? Fujita-san, would you
join me?'
The two of them made their excuses and left the room. First they checked on the
toilet and found it empty. There was a heavy, musky scent hanging in the air.
Noises from further along the hallway brought Yūta and Yukio to an open door.
Yukio groaned. The two naked figures sitting in each other and hanging onto
each other's shoulders for balance turned their heads at the sound and snarled.
Yūta touched gently Yukio's shoulder.
'Lets retreat slowly. At that state both of them could try to kill any
intruders.'
They backtracked a bit and turned to the kitchen. Yukio's mind was reeling. How
had he missed that bit of information? He now remembered how Tomio had greeted
the butler. The gods of fate really like to play with mortals. Only a few more
months and Tomio would have been free of that useless bond. They had already
set up an appointment and saved up for it and the medication. The shivers and
the way Tomio had been spaced out had been symptoms of heat.
'Inoue...'
'What did you say, Fujita-san?'
'A bit over five years ago, when we were still in high school, my brother fell
in love. He...They bonded and the guy disappeared. His name was Inoue. My
brother has suffered so long and...now it was all in vain.'
Yūta did not usually touch other Omegas in fear they might misinterpret it
knowing his orientation. But this young man was now emitting so much anguish
that he needed to be consoled immediately. Yukio found himself in what could
only be called a bear hug. A soothing scent also reached his nostrils.
'It was to protect his mate that Gorō never could even send a message. All his
four elder brothers were murdered as well as two of their mates. We protect the
last survivor here. We'll talk about what we can after those two are coherent.
Right now, just know that Gorō never wanted any harm to your brother. Lets make
the tea, others are waiting.'
***** Getting Reacquainted *****
Slap! It hurt surprisingly much Gorō was sure there was an actual hand print on
his cheek and he had no doubt he'd deserved that. The last couple of hours were
a haze, a weird cross between a dream and a nightmare. He'd thought he'd made a
clean getaway until by some mischance his mate had appeared in front of him. So
many times he had thought about Tomi-chan, thought about hiring a private
investigator, thought about telling the Tanakas his name. But he had resisted.
As long as no person knew, the information could not be leaked. So many times
he had thought about talking to him again, kissing him, making love to him.
Slowly, passionately and gently or even with wild abandon, but not like this.
Not with both of them out of control due to biology.
'Gomen nasai. Are...hurt?'
'Of course I am hurt. How could you do that to me?'
Had Gorō been a canine, his tail would have been between his legs and his ears
trying to disappear into his skull. Since he was human all he could do was
lower his gaze. He'd completely lost all control. It was shameful and it would
happen again, for that had been only the first wave. Tomi-chan sniffed.
'I...'
'How could you leave like that? I waited that day. I waited that week... I
waited five years. What was so hard about even sending a postcard? Even just
'Thanks, but bye!' would have been...'
Gorō's heart hurt when Tomi-chan's voice broke. How wrong he had been to think
the problem was today.
'You are right. I never thought about a postcard. I could have done that. Not
right then, but later. Though even if I had come to think about it, I probably
would not. I thought it were best if you'd forget me and moved on, so
disturbing your peace with a card would not...'
'Grrh. Why? Why did you leave? Why did you not tell me you left me?'
This was not something Gorō wanted to talk about ever and even less in this
situation. But his mate was right, he deserved an explanation. It was the least
he could do.
'My family got involved in a sort of a war between two, lets say,
organizations. I don't know the details and probably never will. One of those
'organizations' decided we ...needed to be..uh..taken care of permanently. My
parents, my brothers and two of their mates were found dead the same morning
we...'
Tomio groaned. This was not real. This sounded like a movie plot or manga.
Yakuza? Seriously, not believable. Yet, Gorō was clearly sincere. The hurt was
real.
'They took me to see the crime scene when I refused protective custody. I threw
up several times. It was...so horrible. And when I thought you could have
been...I surrendered. There was nothing to make them connect you to me, so I
thought you'd be safe if I never told anyone.'
The quiet, deadpan voice reciting past horrors was painful to hear. How much
worse it had to be for the one telling the story. Tomio's heart broke because
of Gorō again. For quite a different reason than the last time.
'So...'
'So I can't do it again.'
'What are you saying? It is almost time for the second wave. You owe me for the
ones I had to endure...'
'Not that Tomi-chan. I meant I cannot leave you again. Even if it messes up
your life. I am more than happy to service you, in fact, I am already aching to
do so.'
Tomio's heart accelerated. The words, the voice at the end and those eyes
looking at him as if he were the most desirable man ever triggered the second
heat wave and rekindled something else too. The love that had been reduced into
a single lingering ember burst into a flame with the new fuel. If he could have
spared time to think, it would have frightened him. But Gorō was nuzzling his
ear, which would have made his insides hum any day. Combined with the extra
dosage of pheromones it was the spark that triggered an explosion.
An hour later they were drenched in another layer of all sorts of bodily
fluids. Thinking back there had been a quiet 'thump' at some point, but they
had been too busy to react to it. The suons had probably come from the small
package near them. It was soft, coated with a ridiculous amount of of bubble
wrap. Gorō unraveled the wrapping carefully. Inside was a smartphone and a
small note saying: TAKING REFUGE AT A HOTEL. CALL US WHEN YOU ARE FIT TO TALK.
NUMBER IN THE PHONE.
'That's my phone...'
Gorō handed the phone to its owner and after reading the note again gave that
to him as well.
'I wonder. Were we maybe too loud?'
Tomio snorted. He'd forgotten how easily Gorō had always teased a smile or even
laughter out of him. The note was embarrassing, but somehow the question
helped. Then he remembered why he even was in this house. Of course he had not
forgotten his brothers except for the times when all conscious thought had fled
his head, but he had prioritized his rediscovered mate over the others. Now he
felt slightly guilty.
'What is it, Tomi-chan?'
That was another thing about Gorō. He'd always been very good at noticing
Tomio's mood changes. Nothing strange about that between bonded mates, but they
had not been bonded yet.
'My brothers. I abandoned Yukio to deal with the trouble with Ayaki. I forgot
why I came and just came after you. I was just going to yell at you and
return.'
There was something adorable about the fact that after these last few hours,
Tomi-chan was suddenly blushing. Gorō sighed.
'I am sure I reserve more than yelling. Do you want to call your brothers now?
I don't think we are done yet, but there is some time before...'
'Maybe in a few minutes. But first, maybe you can fill me in a little...When we
got the message, we thought Ayaki was being held as a hostage or that he had
done something we needed to pay for...Can you explain what this meeting I
missed was about?'
Gorō pondered for a moment. He had a cute habit of tilting his head from side
to side when he gave something a serious thought.
'Hai. I think I can. I may not have all the facts, but I know the basic story.
It seems Yuki-chan, the son of the Tanakas, who own this house, fell in love
with your youngest brother. They went to the same school and played soccer in
the Katsurō team...'
'Wait...So, Tanaka Yuki-san, he is an Alpha? Beta?'
'No. Omega.'
'But...Katsuyama Kōkō does not....'
'Right. Does not let Omegas play at all in its teams. True. Yuki-chan had not
presented yet at the time and yes, I know, it is very rare for them to allow
even that. But he was scouted for his abilities. Anyway, Yuki-chan was in love
with his senpai and after they lost the championship they ended up in bed
together and it seems a bite took place.'
'Bite? And senpai? Not presented? This is even worse than I thought. Uh. How
old exactly is this boy?'
'Yuki-chan will be 18 in April. Anyway, apparently the bite had an effect even
though Yuki-chan had not presented yet. Once he presented he had to change
schools and is now going to AOBI. I don't know why Ayaki-san did not notice he
was gone though. But anyway, the bite started to show symptoms after the
transfer. Kanai Sōta-sama, you may have heard of him, was consulted and it is
likely that the bond was incomplete. They completed the bond last night.'
'What?'
'It may not be my place to say, but they both seem content. However, with both
parties being under 20, parents and guardians need to give their permission for
marriage.'
'Marriage? We were called here to negotiate terms for a marriage contract?'
'In brief, yes.'
For some reason Tomio found that extremely funny. He started to laugh and
wasn't able to stop for quite some time. Perhaps it was partially the relief
after having imagined all sorts of frightful things. Gorō rubbed his palm
gently across Tomio's shoulder plates waiting for him to calm. What a lovely
sound that laughter was though.
'Uh. What exactly did the message Tanaka-san sent to you say that you thought
those odd things?'
'See for yourself.'
Gorō took the offered phone and read the message: URGENT SITUATION CONCERNING
YOUR BROTHER. COMPENSATION TALKS AT THE ADDRESS BELOW AT 10 a.m.
Trust Tanaka Takumi not to use any abbreviations and still manage to get the
most important words there. He'd have some words for that man. But later. Right
now there was something incredible sweet smelling next to him.
'Lets call them at the next lull.'
***** Party at the Otaku Land, part 1 *****
January 18th was a Sunday, but the party Suzuki Kō had not asked for started on
the Saturday before. They had rented part of that same weird anime themed club
at Akiba where the Omega Club had met. When the 'party committee' had
approached Kanai Sōta about it with an e-mail, they had immediately gotten a
positive reply both to being allowed to throw the party and being able to bring
Keiji there. What had come as a surprise was the offer to pay the rent for the
venue and hotel rooms afterwards. The non-scholarship students of AOBI came
usually from very wealthy homes, but only the truly rich could casually throw
away that kind of sum for a birthday party.
The guest list included, naturally, the small close circle of friends Suzuki Kō
had made over less than a year each was also encouraged to bring one more
person. Those who had a mate or boyfriend or someone they liked brought those.
Others brought a friend or even an acquaintance. Kō's brother Keiji brought a
friend, the same boy he'd gone to Hawaii with the previous Summer. The Student
Council had also arrived in its entirety. The soccer team was abuzz with Yuki
bringing in a former Katsurō, Fujita Ayaki and even those who had heard were
still in awe of the former Katsurō captain Hara Takeshi being the date of his
AOBI counterpart, Maeda Mitsuo. There were also some AOBI students that had
been invited for undisclosed reasons and a group of guys in dark violet t-
shirts with a big omega written on the front.
'Yu-chan! Thank you for coming.'
'Thank you, for inviting us Ko-chan. This is is my betrothed mate, Fujita
Ayaki.'
Yu-chan's betrothed mate? What had happened over the past few days? He'd only
gotten a text message saying not to worry, but how could he not have worried.
His own Alpha, Tomo, had had to reassure him several times that Yuki was a
fine, strong guy, who knew how to take care of himself. Kō assessed Yuki's new
mate quickly. Fairly handsome, probably another sporty person. Tall, dark and
nice. Nice? What a strange thought.
'Suzuki Kō, Hajimemashite. My Alpha, Itō Tomoyuki.'
'Good evening, Itō-san. Congratulations on making the captain.'
'Arigato, Fujita-san. Welcome to our little party. Your former captain is here
somewhere also. Let me show you around and introduce you to some of our team
members. You have fans here.'
Fujita Ayaki groaned. He had already left the soccer team and was now taking
extra courses for entering the AOBI university. It is not that he minded
talking to people about soccer, it just felt like it had happened long time ago
instead of just three weeks. But he could hardly refuse the host's suggestion
without being very rude. Almost simultaneously they muttered 'Shitsurei
shimasu', bowed and left their mates. Itō moved a little closer to almost
whisper.
'Worry not, Fujita-san. It was more of an excuse. Those two were obviously
itching to to tell all about us to each other. I am so happy that my
Harinezumi, I mean my Kō, found suddenly such a good friend. And I am, of
course, delighted that Yuki-kun is playing for our team now. He is going to
stay in school, is he not?'
'Oi, absolutely. His parents would kill me if I even suggested anything else.
And so would his uncle, I am sure. Or he might just take away my school...And I
would not do that kind of thing anyway.'
'Your school, Fujita-san?'
'I am starting at AOBI Uni in April. I want to study medicine.'
'In that case there is someone here you should meet. This way...'
They moved though the small crowd into the next room. Itō looked around and
took to the left approaching a group near the wall. One of the men was very
tall, clearly over 180 cm, and had a presence that dominated over the room. His
left arm rested casually on the waist of a young man whose bearing bespoke of
self-confidence.
'President! I have found your soon to be class mate.'
Ayaki bowed greeting the whole group.
'I am Fujita Ayaki. Hajimemashite!'
'Ah! Kanai Satoru. Hajimemashite! You are Yuki-kun's mate?'
It was not the tall, imposing man, it was the elite omega next to him that
spoke.
'Hai!'
'Good to meet you, itoko-san. This is my husband, Kanai Ken.'
These two were actually married even though they were still in high school.
Ayaki wondered if it was an arranged match between elite families. Honestly,
being called 'cousin' by a Kanai was somewhat unnerving too.
'Hajimemashite.'
'Hajimemashite, Fujita-san. Thank you for not making that stupid joke about
husband and wife.'
Ayaki was smart. It still took him a second to make the connection, probably
because he knew full well how the family name 'Kanai' was written. It was
different from the word 'kanai' which meant 'wife'.
'Ah. I did not even think about that. Must be annoying.'
'It was slightly amusing the first three times. It got boring very fast. I am
going to AOBI Uni too, but I think I prefer business.'
The three started to talk about the university and the entrance exams they had
had to take. It startled Ayaki to realize that these two had taken the exams
too and had earned their admissions. Most universities would take an AOBI
Gakuen graduate with good grades without an exam, but AOBI Uni required an exam
from everyone wanting to study in certain fields.
'Gomen. I guess I thought that...'
'That Kanai would just get everything handed out on a golden plate?'
'That AOBI students didn't have to take that test.'
'Ah. Gomen. We have been hearing a lot of people saying that other thing and it
gets frustrating. We were not raised that way. Even I have always had to do my
best at schoolwork and Ken's family is even stricter. They've always helped
with the housework and the farm in addition to school.'
It occurred to Ayaki that the alpha, Ken, was more quiet of the two. He just
stood there with a slight smile on his lips letting Satoru talk.
'I see. I need to examine some of my preconceptions, I think. I am actually
grateful. It may help me acclimatize better. Yuki-kun's family...'
A heavy hand patted Ayaki's shoulder. It was the Kanai alpha. There was
sympathy in his smile.
'I understand. My family is not poor, but not rich either. Some of the things
are a bit overwhelming still. But I am thankful that Satoru isn't a celebrity.
That would be so hard...'
'Feeling sorry for your brother-in-law, Ken?'
Ken nodded at Satoru. For a moment it seemed he'd not say anything more, but
then he drew a deep breath. It was not a secret to anyone who had watched a
certain tv-show, so there was no reason to try and hide the facts.
'My elder brother is a famous singer. His Alpha comes from a lovely, normal
family. Furthermore Daisuke is a scholarly type. He is still adjusting to
living next to Tarotora. Of course they have only been bonded for a few weeks,
so it is natural.'
Ayaki knew who Tarotora was, naturally. He had not known that the singer had a
mate though. But then, he had had his head buried in the books ever since the
last soccer game. He'd probably missed a lot of news.
'Tarotora is Kanai-san's brother? Amazing. I do see how that situation would be
hard.'
Yuki's family had money. Had clearly had money for generations. But at least
there were no cameras everywhere, no people wanting interviews or just
autographs.
'Daisuke said that the key thing is having something to accomplish oneself. For
him it is the work he does now that he has graduated. I understand him. I want
to accomplish something myself, so I intend to study hard and get a job. You
already have a goal you are working for, I think. So just do your best.'
'Arigato, Kanai-san. I shall. I hope we can talk again soon, but now I think I
need to find Yuki. Shitsurei shimasu.'
***** Party at the Otaku Land, part 2. The Hara Brothers. *****
Hara Aoi tucked a strand of blue hair behind his ear. He hadn't really wanted
to come here. Despite his appearance, he wasn't that much into manga or anime.
He didn't hate them either, but he did hate people making assumptions based on
his hair color. He also did not know the Student Council Secretary that well
and had no idea why he had even been invited to this party. He had not really
wanted to come here and now he wanted to run away. Over there, next to the
previous soccer team captain, was his elder brother, Hara Takeshi.
Aoi wanted to run away, but he had already been running for months. He patted
the left back pocket of his jeans feeling the outlines of a folded card. It had
become almost like an omamori for him. It helped to have concrete evidence that
there was someone out there rooting for him in this pinch. He drew a deep
breath, lowered his gaze letting his bangs cover his eyes, as usual. The first
step was torturous, slow like trying to get out of a swamp, but the others
brought him to the targeted pair almost too quickly. He stopped in front of
them and bowed.
'Konbanwa, Takeshi onii-san, Maeda-senpai. Could we talk privately, please?'
'Konbanwa Aoi. Of course.'
'Domo, Hara-kun. I know a room you may be able to use. I'll ask a staff
member.'
'Arigato, Maeda-senpai. But, please, come as well.'
Aoi followed after his brother and Maeda. He was still not sure how the rumors
should be handled. Whether it would be better to pretend they did not exist or
to attack them head on or maybe there was some other way. He did know that he
didn't want his brother hearing of this from anyone else. They entered a small
room behind the dance floor. It seemed like a storage for musical instruments,
microphones and things Aoi thought had something to do with disc jockey's work,
but that was just passing thought. He had to say it now, or he would flee. Aoi
sank on his knees and smashed his forehead on the floor hard enough that it
actually hurt.
'Gomen nasai. Something I said was misunderstood and turned into something
else. I found out that there is a rumor that Takeshi oniisan and I...last
Summer when I had that horrible...heat...they think we...'
Aoi's voice broke. Maeda Michio gasped first. He had the advantage of having
heard some vague whispers and now connected the dots. What would be Takeshi's
reaction? He did not waste time to find out, he pulled out his phone and called
for help immediately.
'Get the team to the DJ's booth immediately.'
Then he moved into position to intercept the Alpha who stood there, face pale,
hands in tight fists, shaking. He would stop any attack even though he himself
would not have minded landing a punch on the younger Hara. He would not let
this thing hurt his mate one more bit.
'Takeshi. Breathe. Think. We can win this. You are not alone.'
Hara Takeshi had faced more than one crisis in his life. Leading the constant
nationals finalist soccer team had certainly exposed him to all sorts of
troubles. Yet never had he felt this angry and this powerless. He did not doubt
the rumors existed, but had it really been an accident? Or had his brother hit
him back for the terrible things he had said that day? They had not spoken for
more than six months, because Aoi absolutely refused any contact and now the
first words were these. Somewhere in the black and red mist a faint echo was
telling him to breathe. But how could he breathe when his chest was
constricting around his lungs? Eventually he had to let air in and it came like
gust of wind.
Scents invaded his nostrils. He could not consciously interpret them, but
something near him, near the soft wall that kept him from lunging ahead smelled
good. Soothing. The soft touch on his shoulder reminded him of another echo
'you are not alone'. Very slowly he began to breathe. The breaths came out as
sobs and that shamed him. He should not be crying. It was not proper. But the
tears would not stop. He did not know that the tears were a way for the body to
vent the anger and frustration that would otherwise have taken a more
destructive form and only thought them as a weakness.
Takeshi's body lost some of the tension and Michio immediately embraced his
mate. This was the first time he was trying to use his scents on purpose and it
seemed to help a little. He ignored the younger brother for now and only
concentrated on his Takeshi. Until the Alpha was calm enough to talk nothing
could be resolved.
'You bastard. Why? Why would you...What I said that day was wrong and vile, but
this...This could ruin my whole life. And not just mine. Mich-chan...'
Michio squeezed tighter and stroked Takeshi's back. The kneeling penitent on
the floor slumped, but replied.
'I have thought about that for the whole time since I found out about what
people are saying. I can only think of one time I have said anything about the
whole thing. I don't know why. There was just something about that person that
rubbed me so wrong. Gomen nasai. I don't know if there is anything I can do to
set things right, but I will do everything I can.'
'Was it revenge? For what I said before I left the house?'
'What? No. Of course not. It was correct after all. My behavior that day was
worth that and worse. I don't remember very much of it, but I remember enough.
I deserved being called that.'
Michio had listened quietly so far, but now he felt it was the time to
intercede. The problem had started on a particular day with a particular event.
That needed to be solved first.
'Tell me what actually happened that day, please. Takeshi, you start.'
Takeshi did not want to admit to his mate what an asshole he had been when he
had panicked. But the reality was so much better than what people apparently
thought had happened. He swallowed.
'I came home and found my brothers in the living room. Toshi, our little
brother Hitoshi, was curled up on the sofa looking scared. Aoi was on the
floor, nearly naked. It took me a couple of seconds to make any sense of it.
Then I realized what had to have had happened. Aoi had presented. He seemed to
be suffering and when he saw me he started to crawl towards me begging for
help. There wasn't anything I could do and I knew I needed to get out of there.
I tried to get him to snap out of it, which I now know was hopeless. But then I
did not. I told him to...'
The shame over his own words reflected on his face. He swallowed before
repeating what he had said.
'Stop acting like a sluttish Omega whore.'
He hung his head. He had no excuse for saying such a thing to his younger,
innocent brother and even less saying something like that in front of their
youngest brother, a mere child.
'Then I turned around and left. I am so sorry, Aoi. I should not have said such
a thing ever.'
Michio was stupefied. He had not expected to ever hear such words from
Takeshi's mouth. Was that how he actually saw the Omegas? Sluttish whores.
They'd need to talk about that later, but right now the more important thing
was resolving this situation.
'Hara-san? Your version, please.'
Aoi was shaken by the account and apology. Had he made more of the situation
than it deserved?
'What my brother said is correct. I remember hurting terribly. Nothing was
helping. Then my elder brother came home and I knew he could help. At that
time, I had no concept what that help would mean. All I knew that the one
person who had always supported me was there now. And when he totally refused
and called me those things, I just broke. The words cut through the haze but in
a different way than meant. I did not snap out, I felt worthless, abandoned,
trash. Later I was also ashamed of how I had acted. Of that day afterwards I
remember only that Toshi was helping me blow my nose and held an electric fan
near me to cool me down. The next day I woke up in a hospital.'
'I called an ambulance as soon as I was out of the house. They arrived in
twenty minutes that felt like ten hours.
Michio was reflecting both of their words. Unfortunate incident that could have
turned out much worse. Yet a few misspoken words had turned it into a potential
catastrophe. He was not sure what was the right way to solve this. Rumors were
persistent like weeds.
'Can you two forgive each other? That is the first step to fixing this.'
'Hai.'
'He has done nothing that needs to be forgiven.'
'Good. Then what we need to do now is to wash your faces and then spend this
evening doing things together. Publicly. This is a good place for that too. We
have many allies here. I am not sure how to kill rumors, but right now I think
it is best we ignore them. If anyone should actually ask, say that it is not
true. Otherwise prove it wrong by acting like brothers should.'
A knock on the door informed Michio that the 'cavalry' had arrived.
***** Party at the Otaku Land, part 3. Love in the Air? *****
Chapter Summary
     This chapter is pretty much setting up things for future.
Suzuki Keiji was happy he had invited Midorikawa Ayato to go to the party with
him. Since it was his brother's 18th birthday all the rest of the guests were
in high school already and that made Keiji feel small. Feeling small was a bad
thing when one is an Alpha. Having a trusted friend there helped, since they
could concentrate on doing their own things. They had hogged a gaming console
from the start. If they had not been getting hungry they probably would not
have given it up all night.
There were, of course, several people he recognized simply because they were
famous in the school. Pretty much everyone knew the Student Council President,
Kanai Satoru and his mate Ken. They had even been on a TV-show last Spring
talking about how they met. Keiji, however, had met both because Satoru's papa
was also his and his elder brother Kō's guardian. Keiji thought Ken was cool,
almost as cool as Kō's Alpha Itō Tomoyuki, Captain of the Soccer team.
'I can't wait for April, Ayato-kun. High School...'
'I know, Keiji-kun. I am so happy we are both going to to continue at AOBI.'
Actually most middle school students at AOBI did continue to AOBI High School.
The middle school was small, only around hundred students per year. Almost all
of them were from wealthy families who could afford the tuition. Scholarship
students were rare, but there were a few. Keiji wasn't really either. His
school was paid by his guardian Kanai Sōta personally, which was only funny if
one knew that he was the owner of the whole AOBI school system.
'I want to join the soccer team. And I want us to be roommates.'
'Keiji-kun. It would be nice, but as things are, we're not even going to be in
the same building.'
'Don't worry, Ayato-kun. There is still time. Do your best!'
Midorikawa laughed and shook his head. There were things one could do and there
were things one could not. Choosing the date of presenting was one of the
latter as was the gender one ended up being. But one could hope for a favorable
outcome. What was the favorable outcome depended on the person. Clearly his
parents and Keiji-kun had different wishes. What a drag! But there was no point
wasting time on something that could not be affected, especially not while in a
real high school party.
'Hai hai! But lets eat now.'
They raced to the banquet table. There was a great variety from traditional
Japanese delicacies to western favorites like pizza. Food at AOBI schools was
actually good, well-made and healthy. But this food was on a totally different
level. Every single thing was clearly made from scratch by professionals. For
Keiji this was a paradise. He wanted to taste every single thing, savor all the
flavors. He had two great passions in life: soccer and cooking. He closed his
eyes and enjoyed the taste.
'Is that really that good?'
A new voice, deep and soft. A new face, dark eyes with golden flecks looking at
Keiji from a close distance. A gentle smile. Handsome! Keji blushed. What was
he thinking? This older guy was just being nice. Unsettled by his random
reation, Keiji nodded in affirmation. His eyes hit the guy's dark violet shirt
and the shining, white omega sign. Not just any older guy, an older Omega was
being nice to him. He needed to find his voice again.
'Hai. It is delicious.'
'I am glad. It is from our family's restaurant. I am Karasu Ai. Hajimemashite!
'Suzuki Keiji. Hajimemashite, Karasu-san. Karasu family owns a restaurant?'
'Three of them. Suzuki-ka? Ko-chan's brother?'
Ko-chan? Keiji had trouble imagining that anyone would call his brother that.
However, this was Kō-niisan's party, so he had to take the improbable into
account.
'The person celebrating his birthday is my elder brother, Kō.'
'Hontō? Great!'
Karasu Ai stood up straight and looked around. He raised his hand up and waited
a few seconds.
'Hey, Nao! I found Ko-chan's little brother!'
Midorikawa Ayato had sat quietly eating while the Omega was chatting with
Keiji-kun. It had nothing to do with him, after all. Another young man or more
like a boy joined the first one. They wore the same shirt and looked a lot
alike. Too much not to be brothers. Yet, there was something special about the
younger one Ayato could not put his finger on. Objectively the elder brother
was probably better looking, but something about the younger kept drawing his
gaze. He sat quietly, ate slowly and listened.
'Domo! I am Karasu Nao. Nice to meet you, Keiji-kun.'
Nao spoke quietly, but confidently. He seemed the type to think before opening
his mouth rather than one afraid to speak.
'Nice to meet you, Karasu-kun. How did you know my name?'
The grin that spread on Nao's face made the observing Ayato's heart jump. How
he wished he'd been the one to receive the attention. But he was nothing here.
He was only here because his friend had not wanted to come alone, after all.
There was no reason for the Omega to even notice he existed and even if he did,
Ayato would only be an unpresented kid to him.
'I talked with Ko-chan a bit more than my brother at the club meet. Since he
only has one brother...'
Nao's brother hit him over the head playfully then smiled proudly at Keiji.
'See, Nao-chan is smart. He's going to AOBI Gakuen next term too.'
Ayato almost choked on his food. Inside his head played triumphant piece of
classical music, one the name of which he could not remember. He did not even
stop to consider why this little bit of news was so important to him, it just
was. Spring was already in his heart even though it was only mid-January.
'Are you alright, Ayato-kun?'
Keiji patted his friend's back, trying to help with the coughing. Ayato's eyes
were misting and clearing his throat took a few more coughs.
'I am fine, Keiji-kun. Arigato!'
'This is my best friend, Midorikawa Ayato. Ayato, Karasu Ai-san and Karasu Nao-
kun.'
Ayato bowed politely.
'Hajimemashite. Karasu-san, Karasu-kun.'
The commotion on the dance floor drew everyone's attention. Suzuki Kō and Itō
Tomoyuki were standing in the middle of the floor, under a spotlight. Staff
members were urging everyone to sit down and be quiet. Ayato almost choked
again, when Nao sat next to him. So close that he could almost feel warmth
radiating from Nao's body and the sweet scent of whatever perfume he was using
tantalized Ayato's nose. He kept his eyes on the dance floor though.
'Thank you all for coming to celebrate Kō's birthday a little beforehand.
Midnight is approaching fast and the real birthday is at hand. Before that,
however, I have something else to talk about...'
Tomo had his hand in his pocket and those who knew him could tell he was
nervous. He took Kō's hand in his and looked at him with such a soft expression
that the audience gasped.
'Suzuki Kō, my bonded mate, we have spoken about the future already, so this
should not be as nerve wrecking as it is. Kō, I am asking you officially to be
part of my family. Marry me, please.'
'Hai!'
The pair embraced and the guests showed their appreciation. Kanai Satoru walked
up to the engaged couple bearing a small basket.
'Congratulations! This is a small token from Sōta-papa and my father too. Now,
we still have about an hour before the food will be taken away, so everyone
...Have fun!'
***** Hope Must Never Die *****
Suzuki Keiji watched the plane take off before turning back to his companions.
They had come too see his brother Itō Kō and his Alpha off on their honey moon
trip to Okinawa. Itō. That was now his brother's name, though Keiji still
called him Kō-niisan, naturally. He also now called his brother-in-law Tomo-san
when in private. Once school started again it would be Captain Itō at least in
soccer practice.
Life continued strangely normal while there was a terrible catastrophe
happening all over the world. The HTXO-virus was spreading everywhere. The
symptoms were very much like any common influenza and not even one of those
scary, deathly varieties. It was nothing to be afraid of unless one was old and
feeble or a woman. The virus did not kill normally healthy people, but in
females it killed their eggs and left them infertile forever. The virus did not
kill the women, but people did. The stories of suicides and murders were on TV
pretty much daily. Even more than deaths there were people abandoned by their
families, left to survive on the streets or die there. Keiji wasn't sure which
was worse, the quick end or being tossed away to die. Or that for the rest of
them life went on pretty much normal. But maybe it had to, maybe that was the
only way for the nation, or even the remaining humanity, to survive. To carry
on living. This was too much for a boy not quite sixteen years of age to bear.
Nor was this the time.
'Don't look so sad, Keiji-kun. They'll be back in a week and then you'll be
moving to the high school dorm. It should be a fun year for you.'
Keiji nodded. There was not much point him worrying about the state of the
world, since he was powerless to do anything about it. He was just a kid with
no practical skills and no money. He couldn't even donate to the efforts to
help the abandoned. Because he too had been abandoned. His parents had died
when he was still quite young and he had heard enough things to understand that
the death had not been an accident. If he hadn't had his elder brother Kō and
some wonderful people who interfered, Keiji's life would have been very
different. Maybe that is why he felt so strongly about those now being cast
aside and wanted to help.
'I know, Michio-san. I'll do my best at high school. And on the soccer field
too.'
The Omega ruffled the youth's head, which he did not mind. Maeda's Alpha,
Takeshi, did not mind it either. Keiji had become almost like an adopted little
brother to both of them over the last couple of months. He'd also formed a bond
with both of Maeda Takeshi's younger brothers, Hara Aoi and Hara Hitoshi. The
latter still lived at home, but the former was a year older than Keiji and
would be his senpai in high school. The only reason Aoi-senpai was not with
them today was that he was preparing to go into his heat. When he heard the
explanation for his friend's absence, it had been awkward. Keiji wasn't
interested in Aoi that way, but for a young Alpha the very idea of a heat was
mysterious and exciting. He'd probably resembled a boiled lobster in color for
a few minutes.
The Maedas were going to take Keiji to the Midorikawa house, where he'd spend
the next five days with his friend Ayato-kun. This was not new, they had spent
parts of their vacations together for almost two years now. Once Keiji had even
flown to Hawaii with the Midorikawa family. It had been great fun. Before going
to there, however, they were going to have lunch.
At little past 2 p.m. they were late for typical lunch hours. The restaurant
being about half full at this hour probably meant that it was rather good. The
three young men, two of them in AOBI school suits and the third in slacks and a
brand name woolen sweater were enthusiastically greeted and escorted to a nice
table by the windows. They were informed that their waiter would be with them
momentously.
'Welcome! How may we serve the gentlemen today?'
The voice was familiar. The face too. Right, that guy had said his family
operated restaurants. Karasu Ai. Keiji had not forgotten his brother's party
and how it had stirred his heart to have this man pay attention to him. Never
had anyone affected him this way. His heart was beating faster and he did not
know what to say. As the youngest member of the party, he was excused of
speaking. It chafed a bit inside, but he let the older Alpha take charge.
'We'd like the curry of the day, please.'
They had already decided that in the car on Michio-san's recommendation, since
he'd said he was familiar with this restaurant and could vouch for the curry.
Keiji was still glad Takeshi-san had spoken for there was some kind of a lump
in his throat.
'And if it is possible to take a break, Ai-chan, join us, please.'
Michio-san had casually invited that man to their table. Keiji wasn't sure
whether he hoped Karasu-san would accept or decline. Both options were good and
bad at the same time.
'Hai. That can be arranged. Tadaima.'
He was going to join them then. Keiji needed to find his voice before that
happened.
'Ano...Michio-san knows Karasu-san?'
'Yes. We are in the same Omega Club. His brothers too.'
Keiji remembered the violet t-shirts with the glaring white Omega-symbols. He
also remembered a brother.
'I met Karasu Naoki-kun at the party.'
'There is a third brother, Shin. Or rather he is the first brother, being the
oldest.'
'Ah.'
Ai-san returned balancing a tray holding to bowls of curry in each hand. He set
one tray on the table and served the bowls from the one still in his hand
first. Then he did the same for the other two and piled the trays on the table
behind them and sat next to Keiji. The change from a professional attitude took
only a few seconds. The polite smile was replaced by a genuinely happy one and
the necktie disappeared into his pocket.
'It has been a long time. Thank you for inviting me.'
'Quite a long time, indeed. We missed Ai-chan last month.'
'Ah. I had something come up that could not be avoided. I'll be there next week
though.'
Keiji was slowly eating his curry while listening to the Omegas talk. Was Ai-
san blushing? Why would he be blushing? Oh. Keiji had an idea what the
unavoidable something had been. He gave his full attention to the curry bowl
outwardly. Inside his head images of what he thought Ai-san's face would look
like panting in heat played in rapid succession. Having seen neither this man
nor anyone else in heat, his imagination might have been far off of the
reality, but it was still affecting him alarmingly.
'Ah, sumimasen. I was lost in thought. Please, repeat the question?'
Kurosu Ai smiled at the young Alpha. He looked so cute when he was flustered.
Cute and young. Ai would never have wanted to be drawn to sixteen year old kid
or was Keiji-kun still fifteen? It didn't make much of a difference. He was
feeling like a dirty old man even though he had just turned seventeen. The age
difference was less than two years, but there was something so pure, so sweet
about Keiji-kun. Even his scent was pure and refreshing, mostly like fresh
lemons. He'd need to think about the other scents later, they were there hiding
underneath the lemons.
'I was asking, if Keiji-kun has already made plans for the future?'
Keiji swallowed. The future he was thinking about involved a bed and Ai-san.
That could not be what he meant. School. That was more likely.
'As in what I want to do after high school?'
'Yes.'
'I want to be chef, actually. Go to culinary school. Travel a bit looking for
interesting recipies. Mate, get married and have three sons.'
He'd actually said that last part. The expressions around the table were
comical. The Maedas were almost laughing. Ai-san was clearly struggling to keep
a straight face as well. Suddenly Keiji feared he'd take that as a proposition
and would decline on the spot. That would be embarrassing.
'Keiji-kun...'
'Hai?'
'That sounds like a good plan. Perhaps some practical kitchen experience would
be good? Over the next Summer Leave, maybe? I can talk to my parents.'
'Arigato. That would be wonderful. Would Ai-san like my contact info just in
case?'
'Of course. Would Keiji-kun mind if I used that info otherwise too?'
'Not at all.'
***** I'll Be Waiting For You to Grow *****
Chapter Notes
     A note on their ages. In Japan the cut off date for entering school
     is April 1st, therefore the students born in March are the youngest
     in each class. For example Keiji (b. April 20th) is almost a year
     older than Naoki (b. March 17th), while the actual age difference
     between Keiji and Ai (b. Feb. 12th) is 14 months. Ayato's birthday is
     July 16th, which means he is older than Naoki, actually. These
     differences will be minimal in the future, but right now they can
     feel like enormous gaps.
Karasu Naoki would have been happy to go to the amusement park any other day in
any other company. Rationally he should have been happy for having an
opportunity to spend a day with future class mates in advance, but he had a
problem with one of the boys. He would have rather avoided any meeting with
that guy. It wasn't that he hated him, it was that he liked him a bit too much.
They were the same age, but to Nao the other boy, Midorikawa Ayato, was a
child.
'Really, oniisan? You want me to spend a day with your little Alpha friend?
Just so you can see his little friend again? Keiji-kun this and Keiji-kun that.
It is pretty much all that comes out of your mouth these days.'
'Mattaku Nao. Is it really that much to ask? You do like amusement parks, don't
you? Besides he's not 'little'. He's probably 10 cm taller than me and quite a
bit heavier too. Oh, and before you start with the age, he's older than you.
But, in spite of that, I don't want to rush anything. That's why I need you.'
It was true. The disadvantage of being born in March was that practically
everyone in one's class was older. Not only Suzuki Keiji, who was apparently
eleven months older than Nao himself, but even that unpresented kid,
Midorikawa-kun, was older by months.
'I'll go. But don't leave me alone with that kid. I don't even know what to
talk to him about.'
'What to talk about? I don't get it. Talk about the school if all else fails.
He went to AOBI middle school, so he probably knows quite a bit about the high
school already.'
'Right. Talking about school during Spring Break in an amusement park is my
dream come true.'
Ai punched his younger brother playfully on the upper arm. The conversation had
gone better than he'd feared. Now that Nao had found his sense of humor again,
Ai knew it would work out fine. How he himself would manage not to confess his
feelings to Keiji-kun was another problem.
Nearing the amusement park gate Ai stopped moving so fast that his brother
almost bumped into him. His plan had been to spend time with Keiji-kun while
his brother kept the friend, Midorikawa-kun, occupied. What he had imagined was
a diluted date, a date without romantic or sexual things. But it seemed that
Keiji-kun was already hanging out with another Omega and a young boy was
excitedly explaining something to Midorikawa-kun.
'Good day! Over here!'
There was no choice, but to walk up to the group. Ai was trying to remember
that blue-haired boy's name. Aoharu? No. Not right, but close. Since they had
actually never met, it was probably fine.
'Good day, Keiji-kun! Midorikawa-kun! How are you?'
'Fine fine! And you?'
'Fine too.'
'Ah. This is Hara Aoi-san, AOBI Second year and his little brother Hitoshi-
kun.'
Ai introduced himself and his younger brother to the Haras. It was evident that
they were going to be a group of six. It was not the end of the world, of
course, but it was still irritating. On the other hand, since he really did not
want to spoil everything by hurrying too much, maybe this was a blessing
disguised as a curse.
The party entered the park, but soon split up in two. Ai ended up going with
Hara-kun and Keiji-kun to the haunted house, while Nao and Midorikawa-kun took
the younger Hara brother to the planetarium. The haunted house was very well
made. It relied more on atmosphere than cheap scares. There were eerie sounds,
cool breeze and even scents. The lights were dim, yet there were shadows so
dark they caught the eye in the dusky corridors. Spider webs brushed their
faces when they entered some rooms. Someone would suddenly scream and they
could not say if it was the act or another visitor. Bloody footprints came from
a side chamber and walked up the wall disappearing near the ceiling.
'Do we actually want to see what is in that room?'
Hara-kun had pretty much read Ai's mind. He had to admit that he was at his
limit every sound, every movement startled him. Everything inside was telling
him to leave the place. But he had his pride.
'We paid for this, so why not? Unless you don't want to, of course.'
The younger boys were probably just as much on the edge as Ai, but they too
could not admit being afraid. The three entered the chamber and regretted it
immediately. The room was a hybrid of an old science lab and torture chamber.
There were no bodies to be seen, not even body parts save for those preserved
in big glass jars, yet everything in the scene witnessed of multiple violent
deaths. Then the whispers started. 'Help me!', 'Please, don't hurt me
anymore.', 'I'll do anything. Stop, please.', 'Save me...Someone save me....'
and 'You are next...Run...'.
Ai swallowed. He'd had enough. He no longer wondered at all why they did not
allow kids under 15 years to enter. Personally he expected to have nightmares
for weeks after this. Why had he insisted on coming here when he even hated
horror films? He glanced at both of his companions. Their faces were pale,
their eyes wide open. They were not laughing or even smiling.
'I am ready to leave. How about you two?'
Both nodded and they backed out of the room and continued following the
corridor. It took them about five more minutes to make it out of the set, but
it felt much longer. All the way to the door they felt they were watched and
pursued. Once back in the sunlight all three of them shuddered.
'That was intense. I understand why they get those high reviews.'
'Yes. I am definitely telling my friend, who is in Hokkaido now about this.
Maybe we can come here again in the Summer.'
'You have a friend in Hokkaido, Hara-kun?'
For no apparent reason Hara Aoi blushed deeply. So that was how it was. That
kind of a friend then. Ai was relieved, for he was sure now that this guy was
not his rival.
'Yes. I do. He writes to me often. It is probably odd, but the school he goes
to does not allow cell phones or personal computers. Real letters are the only
way to communicate. Excuse me, I want to go to the toilet.'
Hara-kun left and Ai was finally alone with the object of his affection. Or as
alone as it was possible in a popular amusement park on a Saturday. Keiji-kun
looked almost like he were glowing.
'Keiji-kun liked that house?'
The boy nodded eagerly. It had been a hair-raising, exhilarating experience.
'I did. It was like being on a set for some scary film. And the smells and the
fans making the breeze, they were so cool. Ai-san, how about you?'
So that was the difference. Keiji-kun viewed what they had seen as an
artificial construct to admire, a well-crafted thrill. That was probably the
better approach. For Ai it had been something quite different. He closed his
eyes before speaking of how he had experienced that place.
'I liked getting out of there the best. All the time inside I was thinking how
terrible it would be if those things were real. How much those things would
hurt. Every drop of blood would have come from a wound. And that bloody bone
saw in the last room was the worst. In my mind that would have been used on a
live victim.'
Keiji held the older youth to him waiting for the tremors to stop. It had been
on instinct alone that he'd reached for Ai-san and now he was feeling somewhat
embarrassed. It was a lot like comforting his elder brother or being comforted
by him, but he barely knew Ai-san. Furthermore Ai-san was older, gorgeous and
an Omega. An Omega who smelled like pancakes, strawberries and cream. Keiji
tried to ignore the effect the closeness of their bodies and that scent were
having on him and hoped Ai-san would not notice. The third year student would
only see Keiji as a silly little brat, most likely.
'Ai-san is brave. If I had imagined things like that...'
The unexpected praise got Ai to lift his head from Keiji-kun's shoulder where
it had been resting comfortably. Their eyes met. Resisting kissing Keiji-kun
right there and then was one of the hardest things Ai had ever done. In truth,
he'd probably lost the battle had they not been in public and interrupted by
both Hara-kun and the other group of three approaching.
The past hour and a half had changed Karasu Naoki's perception of his
'forbidden fruit' considerably. Talking to Ayato-kun had been enlightening.
While the young had still not presented, it did not mean his mind was a child's
mind. In fact, he seemed very thoughtful and mature for their fifteen years of
age. Watching Midorikawa Ayato interact patiently with the preteen had made Nao
to think what a good father Ayato-kun would be and in extension a mate. He
could almost imagine the two of them together with one or two little boys of
their own. It was stupid to think that way this young, they were both only just
about to enter high school. It was not very likely that they'd be together like
that when they were grown-up. For now, Nao did not want to lose his first
crush. Being friends would suffice. It must.
***** Afterword *****
The next season will start a little over a year after this. The reason for this
time skip is mainly a rather mundane one: to give time for some of these
characters to get a bit older. I might not be able to avoid the 'under age'
tag, unless the stories of the characters in the last chapter stay on hold for
another year. That is not impossible, of course. There is a lot to write about
with the soccer team and certain others as well. This does not mean that these
characters will not appear at all, it just means they will not break the rules.
Unrequited love, pining and things like kisses and flirting can be fun to tell
about too.
Of course things happen during the next school year too, but if they are
important enough to remember, someone will talk about them or reminiscence
about them.
Before actual Season 4 there is 'Beta_Testers_of_Life' the 'extra story'
between seasons. It brings back some characters from earlier stories at the
cusp of a new life and introduces some others. It is not compulsory to read,
but I hope it is fun.
(At the time I am writing this 'Beta Testers' has a couple of updates left and
Season 4 will debut in a week or two.)
I hope that some of you have enjoyed my little tales and that I may count on
some of you returning for more. Yoroshiku onegaishimasu.
End Notes
     Hello all you precious people, who have come this far! I you don't
     dislike it, consider feeding my boys kudos or even comments.
     If you do dislike it, direct the comments to me. :)
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