Posted originally on the Archive_of_Our_Own at https://archiveofourown.org/
works/5421599.
  Rating:
      Explicit
  Archive Warning:
      Underage
  Category:
      M/M
  Fandom:
      Free!
  Relationship:
      Matsuoka_Rin/Tachibana_Makoto
  Character:
      Matsuoka_Rin, Tachibana_Makoto, Nanase_Haruka, Hazuki_Nagisa, Amakata
      Miho, Matsuoka_Gou, Yamazaki_Sousuke, Mikoshiba_Seijuurou
  Additional Tags:
      MakoRin_Week, MakoRin_Week_2015, multiple_AUs, Fluff, Angst, Smut,
      Christmas_Fluff, Basketball, Zombie_Apocalypse
  Collections:
      Makorin_Week_2015
  Stats:
      Published: 2015-12-14 Completed: 2015-12-20 Chapters: 7/7 Words: 12833
****** MakoRin Week 2015 ******
by Sarolonde
Summary
     My entries for MakoRin_Week.
     Day 1: Lost (G) - The swim babies go on an elementary school
     excursion.
     Day 2: Fate (G) - Makoto and Rin watch a movie, but Makoto's barely
     paying attention, lost in thought about their relationship.
     Day 3: Confession (G) - Rin's late to pick up his niece after school
     but luckily her gorgeous teacher Tachibana-sensei stayed behind to
     look after her. Rin will have to repay him somehow...
     Day 4: Fears (G) - Makoto comes home to something worrying: Rin
     crippled by fear.
     Day 5: Different Sport (E) - Rin needs to focus on the career he
     wants in basketball but his love for Makoto is extremely distracting.
     Day 6: AU (M) - The world has gone to hell, the walking dead plague
     the earth while Rin and Makoto work to keep their group alive.
     Day 7: Christmas (G) - Just before Christmas Eve ticks over to
     Christmas Day Makoto and Rin complete one of their strange
     relationship traditions.
Notes
     Uwah~! It's here! This is better than Christmas ^_^ hope you all
     enjoy the MakoRin adorableness!
See the end of the work for more notes
***** Day 1 - Lost *****
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
All around him his loud, energetic elementary school classmates are jumping
about in their seats, giggling gleefully, but Rin barely notices the cacophony.
The sun shines through the bus window, warming his pale skin as he gazes
longingly at the rolling hills they travel by. He’s completely zoned out and it
takes Nagisa furiously poking him in the arm for him to realise they’ve stopped
moving.
“We’re here Rin-chan!”
His magenta eyes sparkle with mischief before he flies off the bus, a flurry of
curly blond hair and giggles. Usually he’s not too far behind Nagisa’s level of
enthusiasm – he doubts anyone could actually reach that level – but today he
feels weary.
Heaving a sigh Rin gets off the bus before the teacher comes looking for him,
as it is Amakata-sensei shoots him a worried glance as he joins the rest of the
group. As Amakata-sensei explains what they’ll be doing today Makoto offers him
a concerned expression well beyond his years.
“Are you okay, Rin?”
He smiles genuinely at his friend’s kindness. “Yep!”
“Okay children, let’s get going, it’ll be a long walk!” Amakata-sensei calls,
voice light with excitement. “Before we go find a partner each, take each
other’s hand and look out for each other.”
Usually this means Makoto mothering Haruka while Nagisa and Rin bounce around
all over the place, causing all kinds of trouble. Today, however, Nagisa seems
to be of the mindset to futilely and insistently encourage Haruka to enjoy
things. Which is probably for the best since Rin’s not particularly in the mood
for Nagisa’s antics.
“Haru-chan! Haru-chan!” Nagisa sing-songs, sliding his small hand into an
unmoving Haruka’s. “Let’s go Haru-chan!”
“Can you stop calling me that?” Haruka mutters but follows after their
classmates towed by Nagisa anyway.
The corners of Makoto’s dazzling green eyes crinkle affectionately as he
watches after his grumbling best friend being led away by Nagisa. Smile never
leaving his face he turns to Rin and extends his hand. Hesitating momentarily
Rin accepts Makoto’s hand and marches off after the group doing his best to
avoid eye contact and ignore the warmth of Makoto’s hand.
Rin’s exceptionally fond of Makoto, for numerous reasons, the paramount of
which is his soothing presence. It’s like Rin can’t possibly remain upset or
annoyed when he’s with the kind-hearted brunet boy; he calms every fibre of
Rin’s being by simply being there. From the moment he met Makoto he knew he had
a lifelong friend he didn’t want to lose.
It’s a warm spring day, the sun beaming down delightfully but not too hot, just
enough to warm Rin through pleasantly. The path isn’t too steep and dirt
crunches underfoot as they trek up the mountain path. Rin and Makoto trail
along their classmates quietly enjoying the fresh air that’s clearer than the
salted ocean breeze they’re accustomed to living by the sea. Birds sing and
insects buzz all around them as Nagisa ridiculously attempts to mimic the
sounds, Haruka complaining beside him.
They’re thirty minutes into their journey to the Shrine when Rin hears an odd
shuffle and a gasp behind him before he’s tugged abruptly backwards, Makoto’s
hand wretched from his grasp. His eyes shoot wide as his muscles tense, core
strength working to keep him upright. When he’s steady he spins to see Makoto
fallen over on hands and knees. Large green eyes full of fright gaze up at Rin
as the boy trembles.
“Mako,” Rin quickly moves to his side, helping his friend to his feet. “Are you
okay?”
Makoto wobbles slightly in his grasp but Rin manages to steady him with a
supportive arm tight around his waist. Humming a shaky affirmative response
they both dust the dirt off Makoto’s jean clad legs. The brunet boy dusts off
his hands when inhales a sharp hiss and then whimpers, gazing down at his hands
like they’ve personally slighted him. Which isn’t too far off the mark.
“Let me see,” Rin says.
Taking Makoto’s wrists carefully Rin inspects the grazes across the boy’s
palms. His skin is red from the harsh impact and already starting swell; the
small cuts on his prominent hand are slowly oozing scarlet through the ugly
scratches across his palm. The injuries don’t look too bad.
“I-It’s okay,” Makoto stutters, distress heavy in his voice. “I’m o-okay.”
Rin huffs a sigh and shakes his head at his friend’s unrelenting need to
comfort everyone around him, even if he’s burdened or in pain.
In search of help Rin whirls to where the rest of his classmates and teacher
last were only to find the narrow path now deserted. His brow furrows with
confusion. They were just here… They can’t have gone far.Turning back to Makoto
Rin shrugs out of his short sleeved orange button up – black tank underneath –
and presses into Makoto’s palm where the blood is welling more rapidly.
“Here, hold this,” Rin instructs, wincing sympathetically as Makoto does when
the material touches the wound. “It’ll slow the bleeding. I think.”
“Thank you, Rin,” the brunet says sincerely, his smile brightening and
crinkling his eyes.
Rin beams a smile back at him, hoping to reassure him. “Come on, we need to
catch up so Amakata-sensei can make it better.”
 
===============================================================================
 
“Um, Rin, I think we’re lost,” Makoto speaks quietly, sheepish.
With Makoto’s less injured hand firmly gripped in Rin’s they make their way
through the unfamiliar landscape having lost the path a while back. Rin knows
they’re lost, he’s not stupid, but he doesn’t want to admit to it. Pride has
its part in his denial but mostly he doesn’t want to unsettle Makoto any
further. No matter how many tight lipped smiles Makoto gives him Rin knows how
anxious, hurt and upset he is.
“We’re not,” he asserts. “I’m sure it’s not far now.”
“Maybe we should just go back to the path and stay put so Amakata-sensei can
come find us.”
Rin comes to a halt and inspects their surroundings as the other boy shuffles
nervously behind him. The sun is still beaming overhead – undoubtedly burning
Rin’s now exposed, pale shoulders – and it looks exactly like where the path
was, only there isn’t an obviously frequented dirt path underfoot. It’s
frustrating because he’s sure they’re going the right way.
He’s about to continue their march forwards when Makoto’s hand slips from his.
“Rin…”
“Mako we--”
Turning Rin meets bright green eyes sparkling in the sunlight with the tears
welling in them, yet there is still a stupid placating smile stretched across
his mouth. It makes Rin mad. A silent tear slides down Makoto’s worry flushed
cheek and his bottom lip starts to tremble.
Makoto’s always looking after everyone – especially Haru – he’s always polite
and kind and reliable. He’s always there when Rin needs him. Now it’s Rin’s
turn to look after him, to comfort him.
“Are you scared?” Rin asks calmly.
The other boy nods silently, clearly on the precipice of sobbing. Makoto rarely
cries.
“There is nothing to be afraid of Makoto,” he assures his friend, grabbing his
shoulders firmly. “You’ll be okay because you have me. I’m going to find that
path and we’re going to catch up to our classmates and everything will be
fine.”
Through Rin’s stern, reassuring speech Makoto seems to have calmed down
marginally, enough at least to respond with a shaky ‘okay’. Removing his hands
from the other boy’s shoulders Rin extends his hand the same way Makoto always
does.
“Do you trust me Makoto?”
The boys green eyes widen as he stares at Rin and holds his hand once more.
“Yes.”
“Good!” Rin exclaims, shining his brightest grin at his friend.
Makoto trails along beside Rin now instead of tentatively behind him. Rin holds
his hand firmly – but not so much as to hurt his tender, less grazed, hand –
and offers as much support to the distressed boy as possible. He gives Makoto
his strength and shoulders the burden happily. As long as Makoto’s okay Rin
will be.
Not long after the path becomes visible again – Rin knew he’d been going the
right way – and they grin cheerfully at each other before setting off at a
faster pace.
Amakata-sensei’s brown eyes are large with panic when they arrive at the
shrine, scolding and lecturing the two boys while attending to Makoto’s grazes
with a first-aid kit. The boy winces as Amakata-sensei cleans the wounds with
antiseptic but Rin’s by his side, holding his arm comfortingly. When Makoto’s
hands are lightly and protectively wrapped in a bandage Rin finds himself
swiftly enveloped in a warm hug.
“Thank you, Rin,” Makoto says softly against his hair.
His widened red eyes slowly narrow as he smiles happily and returns Makoto's
embrace.
Chapter End Notes
     Epiphany… I’ve never written children before. Eep! Rin’s probably far
     too observant for a 12(?) year old. Oh well. He’s always been a smart
     and mature kid.
     my_tumblr
***** Day 2 - Fate *****
Chapter Summary
     Makoto and Rin watch a movie, but Makoto's barely paying attention,
     lost in thought about their relationship.
Chapter Notes
     This is the shortest thing I've ever written and I'm extremely proud
     of that because I cannot write short to save myself. I also love this
     chapter/prompt, if I do say so myself.
See the end of the chapter for more notes
He feels warm, so incredibly warm. Curled up on his side with his head in Rin’s
lap Makoto watches images flash across the television screen. People are there,
talking, Japanese subtitles flashing across the bottom and the story progresses
in typical romantic comedy stages but he’s not paying attention. Makoto’s too
lost in the concept of the movie, and has been ever since it became clear
thirty or so minutes in.
The movie is Serendipity; picked by Rin, who, two years ago – six months into
their relationship – had finally relaxed enough with Makoto to unashamedly be
the romantic he hides behind that austere front. Makoto finds himself dreamily
contemplating the notion of fate rather than actually watching the movie.
Though it’s possibly an enjoyable film it coincides with some rather confusing
uncertainty he’s been feeling in their relationship lately.
“Rin…”
“Mm,” he hums a distracted response.
“Do you believe in fate?” Makoto enquires curiously.
“Not really. I mean, it’s a nice idea but...”
Makoto’s brow furrows. It’s odd that such a romantic person wouldn’t believe in
fate. Turning onto his back, legs resting up on the arm of the couch, Makoto
gazes up at his boyfriend whose brilliant scarlet eyes are focussed on the
television.
“You don’t think we’re fated to be together?” Makoto asks and cannot keep the
slight waver from his voice.
Undoubtedly hearing the distressed tone of Makoto’s voice Rin meets his
boyfriend’s forlorn eyes. Makoto carefully watches Rin’s expression as it
softens quickly from worry to affection, the corners of his lips curling
slightly.
“Makoto, I worked too damn hard to have and keep you in my life for ‘fate’ to
be allowed to steal that accomplishment from me,” he asserts, hand moving up
Makoto’s torso slowly, stilling over his heart. “We’re meant to be together,
that much I know and agree with. But joining Iwatobi to swim with you,
discovering my feelings for you, pursuing you, fucking you senseless and
falling in love with you… That’s all because of me. And maybe a little bit
because of you,” Rin finishes, unable to contain his smile.
Suddenly he’s very aware of Rin’s hand over his heart, pressing firmly against
his chest as his heart races erratically inside. The words, while coloured with
Rin’s characteristic crassness and humour, are beautiful and immediately cull
any uncertainty Makoto was feeling. To the point where he feels a little silly
for being uncertain to begin with.
Rin continues to smile fondly in the face of Makoto’s silent amazement. Instead
of waiting for a response Rin leans down slowly, fingers trailing up Makoto’s
neck to tilt back his head and claim his mouth. Makoto finds himself swiftly
melting against the heat of his boyfriend’s mouth and he tilts his head to
change their strange angle.
While the romantic notion of fate – a relationship and love decided by the
universe – is undoubtedly appealing Makoto understands Rin’s negative regard of
the idea. They have both put in an enormous effort to be together. Not that
being with Rin is difficult, quite the contrary, but life isn’t simple and
they’ve had their share of hurdles.
The universe didn’t decide on their love. They chose it. And they wouldn’t have
it any other way.
Chapter End Notes
     my_tumblr
***** Day 3 - Confession *****
Chapter Summary
     Rin's late to pick up his niece after school but luckily her gorgeous
     teacher Tachibana-sensei stayed behind to look after her. Rin will
     have to repay him somehow...
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
 
“You’re late, Onii-chan,” Gou’s voice complains angrily through the phone line,
the sound loud out of the speakers of his car.
How does she know? The school must have called her. Of course they did.
Rin growls with annoyance, glaring a hole into the rear of the car he’s stuck
in traffic behind. This is just perfect. He’d had no intention of being late
and he knows how important his timeliness is but things happened and he got
caught up. Gou’s guilt piles on top of the guilt he’s already feeling, sagging
his shoulders.
“I know, damn it. I know,” he remarks into his empty car, the in-built
microphone picking up the exasperation in his voice. “I’m sorry. I’m nearly
there I promise.”
She sighs. “It’s okay, Tachibana-san promised to look after Nanami until you
arrive.”
The name – the former – sends butterflies through his stomach, the muscles
constricting against them with discomfort and his knuckles turning white as his
grip tightens on the steering wheel. But he ignores the idiotic feeling in
favour of worry for his nine year old niece who was certain to scold Rin with
more ferocity than her mother.
“Just drive safely Onii-chan,” Gou continues, her voice placating. “And I’ll
see you later tonight when I come to pick Nanami up.”
Grumbling a distracted farewell the call ends and Rin’s left to concentrate on
the heavy traffic he’s attempting to navigate. Fifteen minutes and countless
expletives later Rin pulls into the Elementary School parking lot that is
almost empty an hour after school pick up. Quickly jumping out of his car and
jogging into the school Rin winds his way through the halls, bursting into
Nanami’s classroom.
“Nanami I--”
Rin’s voice gets caught in his throat as his gaze meets beautiful smiling eyes
that are far too green to be real. Abruptly he’s lost and utterly mesmerised by
those incredible eyes until his mind forces him to drag his gaze down to the
source of the smile. Wonderfully full lips stretch – bordering perfectly white
teeth – into a bright, friendly smile that leaves his brain a chaotic mess.
“Oji-chan!” A small angry voice breaks through his daze and draws his
attention. “You’re late!”
The little ball of irritation storms over to him. Nanami has Sousuke’s intense
blue-green eyes and they’re currently fiercely glaring at him in a very
familiar way, her short arms crossed over her chest and her small mouth set in
a pout that mimics Gou’s. As a combination of the two people in Rin’s life that
he utterly yields to Nanami has her uncle wrapped around her little finger.
Luckily she’s not spoilt little brat or she’d walk all over him.
“I’m so sorry Nanami,” Rin drops to his knees before the girl, giving her his
most pathetic pleading voice. “I beg you to forgive me! I don’t know how I’ll
survive if you cannot find it in yourself to give me another chance!”
Nanami narrows her teal eyes on him, considering his request. “Okay, I forgive
you Oji-chan.”
Clutching at his chest like he’s escaped a life threatening situation Rin sighs
dramatically. “Thank goodness!”
A delightful chuckle nearby makes Rin glance up at the man who has approached,
holding Nanami’s small pink backpack in his large hand. Makoto’s eyes are
crinkled with amusement at the affectionate – and melodramatic – display, his
head tilted forward and hand raised to his mouth in an unsuccessful attempt to
cover the sound. Makoto is the most attractive person Rin’s ever met. He’s tall
and solidly built with lightly tanned skin and a mop of charmingly messy brown
hair Rin so desperately wishes to lace his fingers through.
A few months ago Gou started working a full time job and it meant that she
couldn’t pick Nanami up from school most evenings. Due to Rin’s much freer
schedule he offered to pick his favourite – and only – niece up from school
three days a week. The first time he laid eyes on Makoto – Nanami’s teacher –
he had made such a fool out of himself, too gobsmacked by the man’s beauty to
be able to form coherent thought. That was three months ago and yet Rin still
often finds himself enchanted by the kind-hearted man’s handsome face and
pleasant smile.
“Sorry for making you wait Tachibana-san,” Rin apologises sincerely,
straightening and taking Nanami’s bag from the man, pulling it onto his
shoulder.
“It’s no problem Matsuoka-san,” Makoto assures with a smile. “I really don’t
mind.”
“Don’t be silly Tachibana-sensei, Oji-chan made you miss your train,” Nanami
asserts, her hands on her hips as she gazes up at the two tall men confidently.
“You should offer to drive him home, Oji-chan.”
Makoto’s smile drops and his eyes widen with embarrassment but somehow Rin
feels remarkably calm about this suggestion. A stark contrast to his usual
fluster; he likes the idea far too much to let the opportunity slip by.
“Oh, no, Nanami-chan, that’s really not necessary! There is another train and
I’ll be fine,” Makoto rambles, cheeks adorably pink. “Matsuoka-san it’s okay, I
don’t want to impose. You don’t have to--”
Rin shakes his head, his lips curling with amusement at the other man’s
nervousness. “I’m free this afternoon so it really doesn’t bother me,” he
shrugs, taking Nanami’s hand. “I’d be happy to drive you home.”
“Come on, Tachibana-sensei!”
The small redheaded girl is so unbelievably certain of herself that it’s very
difficult to say no to her. Once she sets her mind to something Nanami is
impossible to talk out of things; Rin’s learned to accept her stubbornness
rather than futilely fight it. Again, he’s incredibly glad she’s not a spoilt
brat.
With her free hand – the one that’s not holding tightly onto Rin’s long fingers
– she tugs at Makoto’s hand. The teacher is glancing nervously between Nanami
and Rin as if begging the other adult to shrug off the issue but Rin merely
grins expectantly at him. Makoto sighs heavily with defeat after Nanami’s
increasingly exasperated insistence.
“Okay, okay, I just need to get my bag.”
With his black puffy jacket on and a deep green scarf around his neck – that
accentuates the vivid colour of his eyes – Makoto slings a messenger bag over
his shoulder and locks his office door. Somewhere along the way to Rin’s car he
notices Nanami between he and Makoto, holding both their hands and the idea of
them looking like a family brings an intense blush to Rin’s cheeks. He pretends
to be very distracted by the buildings architecture while his niece swings on
his arm, humming happily.
“So, where do you live Tachibana-san?” Rin asks as the teacher does his
seatbelt up beside him.
“We’re going to the café,” Nanami asserts assuredly from the backseat. “You owe
me and Tachibana-sensei apology hot chocolates.”
Makoto’s eyes widen and he looks even more flustered that before. “Oh, no,
don’t worry about me. You can take me home first, it’s not far from here.”
“Tachibana-san is a busy person Nanami, we shouldn’t waste anymore of his
time,” Rin says, attempting to keep the disappointment from his voice as he
starts the car and exits the parking lot.
“I-I’m not busy, I’d love to spend more time with you both and a hot chocolate
does sound lovely but I don’t want to impose.”
It’s honestly a damn miracle Rin’s stopped at a red light or he’d have given
them all whiplash stomping on the break at Makoto’s words. Love to spend more
time with us?Bothof us? Rin’s scarlet eyes shoot wide with the exhilaration the
man’s words give him. Inwardly he’s bouncing around like a hormonal teenager
talking to his first crush; if not for his current state of elation he’d be so
disappointed in himself.
Rin chuckles, turning to face Makoto with a bright grin. “Man, you’re really
too polite for your own good. I do owe you for volunteering to stay back to
look after Nanami so I’m inviting you to join us, which means you’re not
imposing.”
He can feel those beautiful green eyes on him as he turns his attention back to
the road and makes his way to the nearest café. Makoto mumbles his appreciation
after a stunned silence. Rin’s all too aware of the effect he’s having on the
teacher and he can tell it’s more than simply not wanting to ‘impose’. If only
he were confident enough to act on their clearly mutual attraction.
On the way to the café Rin asks Nanami about her day – as is routine whenever
he picks her up – and she animatedly describes her ‘awesome’ day. Makoto
cheerily adds information here and there, smiling brightly at the girl’s
enthusiasm. He almost seems proud of the young girl and Rin remembers Gou
saying something about how Nanami’s teacher is incredibly fond of her. Rin can
see it in Makoto’s eyes as Nanami talks and it takes all Rin’s willpower to
keep his eyes on the road and not on the gorgeous man beside him.
Rin can’t help but notice how incredibly domestic this is. It sends butterfly’s
through his stomach. But then he remembers that he barely knows Makoto and
rightly scolds himself for such fanciful and ridiculous thoughts.
They pull up out the front of a local café Rin often takes Nanami when she’s
being overly demanding – like now. It’s small and quiet and comfortable. It’s
not too busy as it’s later in the afternoon and they easily acquire their usual
table by the heater. As Rin shrugs out of his long black coat he notices Makoto
watching him but pretends not to notice and runs a hand through his long hair.
Definitely not showing off. No way.
The table is small and square and Makoto’s knee bumps into Rin’s underneath as
they sit but neither of them say anything nor do they move their knees. The
waitress comes over quickly and takes their orders – two hot chocolates and a
latte.
“So, Matsuoka-san--”
“Just call me Rin, I’m not really one for formality,” he interrupts Makoto,
straying from his usual cheesy ‘that’s my father’s name’.
“It’s because Oji-chan grew up in Australia,” Nanami adds helpfully.
“I didn’t grow up there, I was only there for three years. Did your Oka-san say
that?”
The girl nods sincerely. “Oka-san says that’s why you have such a potty mouth.”
Rin snorts a laugh. “Well, she’s not wrong.”
“Oto-san says it’s because you have a stick up your butt.”
It does sound like something Sousuke would say, Rin can practically hear the
‘among other things’ his best friend would mumble after it. He frowns at the
fact Sousuke would say that in front of his own daughter.
“Nanami-chan, you shouldn’t say that,” Makoto chides but it lacks any real
potency as it comes from a mouth curled with a smile. Rin’s too lost in the
man’s adorable smile to defend himself or notice when the drinks arrive. Until
Makoto turns back to him. “So Rin, what is it you do?”
The question pulls him from his daze and he looks down at his latte. “I’m a
commercial model.”
There’s a sharp exhale of breathe and Rin glances up to see Makoto wiping at
the hot chocolate that’s been sprayed around his mouth and on the table. Lucky
the drink doesn’t seem to be too hot as Makoto wipes his mouth with a napkin
before staring at Rin with large, shocked eyes.
“Y-You’re… I thought I recognised you! Oh my goodness, I’ve seen you in those
underwear ads. You’re hot--!”
The teacher slaps a hand over his mouth and just when Rin thought Makoto’s eyes
couldn’t widen any further they do, practically bugging out of his head as he
blushes furiously. Makoto barely said the last ‘t’ sound but Rin knows what he
said. Rin’s face feels hotter than the heater they’re sitting near and he’s
fairly sure it’s redder than his hair.
Holy shit, the cute teacher thinks I’m hot, Rin thinks, sounding even more like
a hormonal teenager and internally facepalming.
“Oka-san won’t let me see Oji-chan’s work,” Nanami says sullenly, eyes focussed
on the hot chocolate in front of her.
Thank God for Nanami’s presence and distraction so that neither of them have to
actually address the awkwardness.
“T-That’s because my work isn’t appropriate for little girls,” Rin responds
quickly, focussing his attention on her and not the stupid stuttering of his
heart. “Maybe when you’re older and understandably won’t want to see it.”
Moving on quickly from that awkwardness Makoto seems to recover and they
continue to converse. Nanami and Makoto talk about things happening at school
and the taller man seems cautious when asking Rin more questions about his
personal life but it’s a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon. At least Rin thinks
so. He certainly enjoys the company.
In the three months since he met Makoto they’ve had a few conversations at
school here and there but nothing as in depth as this. In those conversations
Rin quickly deduced the man is a damn angel and far too good for the likes of
Rin. Nonetheless Rin wants him.
Their pleasant time at the café only solidifies Rin’s high opinion of the
immensely kind and warm-hearted elementary school teacher. It makes him want to
do silly romantic things he’s never done with previous partners like gaze into
each other’s eyes – if only to get lost in those bright green seas of
perfection – and cuddle and kiss for hours on end. Rin’s never been overly
affectionate or loving in previous relationships, but God, Makoto makes him
want to be.
When they finish and are on their way to Makoto’s house Rin feels foolishly sad
that their pleasant evening is coming to an end. When he pulls into Makoto’s
driveway and turns off the car he tries to keep the disappointment from his
face when he turns to the other man.
“Thank you so much Rin, I really appreciate… Well, everything,” Makoto smiles
warmly, his messenger bag in his lap and his hand hesitantly on the door
handle. “I’ll see you tomorrow Nanami-chan.”
“Goodbye Tachibana-sensei!” The girl waves enthusiastically.
“See you soon, Rin,” he says and Rin swears he sounds wistful.
Ask for his number. Ask if he’s single. Ask him out. You’ve wanted to ask
Makoto out for weeks, just goddamn do it Rin!
“Mm, bye.”
Idiot,Rin sighs at himself, irritated.
When the car door closes behind Makoto the car’s filled with silence as Rin
watches the teacher walk to his front door, unlock the door and go inside.
Little does Rin know two round teal eyes are watching him. Rin starts the car
again and his hands grip the steering wheel too tightly as he hesitates in the
drive way.
“Aren’t you going to ask Tachibana-sensei out Oji-chan?”
Her small voice cuts through the panic of thoughts swimming around his mind.
With wide, disbelieving red eyes Rin turns back to his niece.
“What?”
“You like Tachibana-sensei don’t you? So why don’t you ask him out?” She asks
like it’s the most obvious and simply thing in the world. Which, if not for all
his possibly unwarranted worry and excessive thinking, it probably is.
“W-Wait here!” Rin says as he turns off the car and gets out, hearing Nanami
giggling in his wake.
Keeping a responsible eye on Nanami in the car Rin knocks on Makoto’s door,
unhesitant in the burst of adrenaline and confidence his niece has gifted him.
After a few seconds – that feel like excruciatingly long minutes – Makoto opens
the door, brilliant green eyes wide as he focusses on his unexpected guest.
“Rin?”
And then Rin loses all control of himself as his vision narrows in on those
perfectly full lips. He moves forward, fingers tightening in the material of
Makoto’s pale blue sweater and raising himself on his toes to meet the taller
man’s mouth. Makoto freezes against him, evidently – and understandably –
shocked, but his lips quickly soften against Rin’s.
Rin comes to his senses and pulls away from the teacher, concerned he’s
frightened the poor man in the assault on his face. But Makoto’s smiling
giddily down at him, which makes Rin’s heart skip a succession of beats that
are probably indicative of cardiac arrest.
“Oh shit, s-sorry! I did that the wrong way around,” Rin rambles
apologetically, running a hand through is hair nervously. “I really like you,
Makoto.”
Makoto giggles, his cheeks flushed. “I figured, with the kiss and all.”
“Is that the guy you like? You’re right, he is that model in the underwear
ads,” a monotone voice comes from behind Makoto and a dark haired man with deep
blue eyes appears, appraising Rin. “He’s hotter in the ads.”
“Haru!” Makoto scolds, a little whinier than his teacher voice and visibly
embarrassed.
“I-Is that… Are you…?”
Haru shakes his head at Rin’s unfinished question, seemingly bored by the whole
situation. “No, Makoto’s all yours,” he confirms, brazenly reaching into
Makoto’s back pocket to retrieve his phone and handing it over to Rin casually.
“Here, give him your number.”
Rin takes the phone mechanically, staring at the strange blue-eyed man before
obediently programing his number into Makoto’s phone. This whole situation is
so confusing and Rin’s so shell-shocked that he would probably do just about
anything anyone asked him at the moment.
“Haru, really! I’m quite capable of getting Rin’s number myself.”
“Clearly not, you’ve been wanting to ask him for it for weeks.”
Sighing heavily Makoto bows his head into his palm and Rin hands the phone back
to Haru. Rin wants to reassure Makoto but he’s a little intimidated by the
clear closeness between the two of them. The dark haired man types something
into Makoto’s phone and Rin’s pocket vibrates and chimes.
“He didn’t give you a fake number,” Haru assures his friend, sliding the phone
back into his pocket as Makoto shakes his head with exasperation.
Why the hell would I give him a fake number?
“I-um… I need to get Nanami back to Gou,” Rin mutters a little dumbly.
“Oh, of course!” Makoto glances back up at him. “I’m sorry to keep you Rin.
I’ll text you,” he promises.
Before Rin can take a step away from the front door Makoto steps forward and
presses a kiss against Rin’s cheek that leaves his skin tingling pleasantly. An
affectionate smile stretches across Makoto’s flushed face as he waves goodbye
to Rin and closes the door. Walking mechanically and distractedly back to his
car – mind lost in images of shining, impossibly green, eyes – he sits in the
driver’s seat wondering what the hell just happened before Nanami draws his
attention.
“Did it go well Oji-chan?”
“Ah, yeah, I gave him my number,” Rin answers, turning on the car and regaining
control of his thoughts.
“Good, now you can make Tachibana-sensei happy and he can give me an ‘A’.”
“What?” Rin questions, stepping on the break as he glances back at the girl
grinning broadly at him – just like her mother.
Nanami giggles. “Just joking!”
Chapter End Notes
     Nanami ships it. A SouGou child is possibly one of the cutest things
     I have ever imagined. Not that it’s original or anything but I can
     see the little gem in my mind and it makes me all warm and mushy
     inside.
     my_tumblr
***** Day 4 - Fears *****
Chapter Summary
     Makoto comes home to something worrying: Rin crippled by fear.
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
“I’m— home…” Makoto’s voice trails off as he closes the door behind him and
notices objects from the sideboard scattered on the floor in the foyer.
Alarm bells go off in Makoto’s mind and all sense of his own safety flies out
the window. It honestly looks like they’ve been robbed and the possibility of
the culprit still being inside the house is incredibly high. Which is why what
Makoto does next is completely the wrong thing to do. But he’s too concerned
for his boyfriend to care.
“Rin?” He calls, questioning at first but his voice quickly grows strained and
loud with worry. “Rin, where are you? Rin!”
His bag is swiftly abandoned by the door as he sprints around the house,
checking the just as damaged living room and the untouched kitchen before
heading upstairs. Really he should have checked their bedroom first.
Makoto comes to a dead stop at the door as he catches the familiar head of
crimson hair. There is no relief though. Rin’s curled up in a ball, his knees
drawn into his chest and body folded tightly over them. The well-defined
muscles of his bare arms are tense and taut as they grip strongly around his
legs. In the silence of the dim room Makoto can hear his broken sobs and
sniffling.
By Rin’s side in an instant Makoto wraps him in an ardent embrace, hushing his
trembling boyfriend as he rocks them both gently back and forth.
He’s seen this before and though it scares him Makoto’s learned how to deal
with Rin’s anxiety attacks. He only regrets that he wasn’t here for the worst
of it. Internally he scolds himself for not expecting it with the upcoming
tournament.
No one knows this about the star swimmer but Rin gets incredibly anxious to the
point of panic attacks before major events. Makoto’s the only one that knows.
And while that makes him feel special, knowing that he’s the one Rin trusts
with his darkest self, it also weighs on Makoto. Not that he blames Rin in the
slightest for wanting to keep the secret but he wishes that he could at least
share his worry for his partner with someone. Someone trustworthy. Someone like
Haru.
It’s incredibly difficult to keep from his best friend who practically knows
what Makoto’s thinking with the smallest of expressions. But, respectfully,
Haru never pushes on anything Makoto doesn’t wish to speak of. After all,
Makoto now keeps two people’s worth of secrets.
“Rin,” Makoto murmurs after what feels like an hour, his voice soft and
soothing as his boyfriend starts to relax against him. “Rin, can you tell me
what happened?”
Rin stiffens and Makoto’s worried he’s going to fall apart again but he only
unfolds himself to wrap strong arounds around Makoto’s torso, resting his head
on the larger man’s shoulder. Makoto doesn’t speak while he patiently awaits a
response, rubbing soothing circles into his back in an attempt to relax the
rigid muscles there.
“I… I got a message from the coach,” Rin’s voice is thick with emotion, husky
with the damage his throat took through the crying – and probable yelling. “And
then I just started worrying about the race.”
“Which race?” Makoto asks for specifics knowing that he always feels better
after talking about it, even if he’s hesitant.
“The 400m butterfly,” he answers while Makoto nods along. “I can’t win it. I
know I can’t fucking win it, so why the hell am I even a part of it? I’m not
fucking good enough, I don’t have the stamina for it. So why the hell does he
continue to sign me up for it? He says that it’ll improve my stamina and help
me in the 200 but I disagree. I fucking can’t do it Mako. I can’t. I’m not good
enough, I’ll just make a fuckin’ fool outta myself.”
Rin’s become good at speaking clearly through tears, swearing especially seems
to make it easier, seems to ease some of the tension and pain. Of course none
of what Rin’s saying is accurate, it’s all exaggerated by his anxiety. It’s not
his best distance but Rin swims a great 400m butterfly.
It hurts, to see him like this. Rin’s such a strong person it’s difficult to
see him so fragile.
Running fingers through the back of Rin’s long hair Makoto softly kisses the
side of his head and then his cheek and then his jaw and then his mouth. When
he pulls back he’s gazing into piercing vermillion eyes glistening with tears,
distressed and dejected. Fearful of his own failure.
“Matsuoka Rin, you’re strong and passionate and successful. You are perfection
and I love you so intensely. I have never once, in all the years I’ve known
you, doubted that there was something you couldn’t do. When have you ever let
yourself down?”
The corner of his mouth twitches as light starts to come back to his eyes.
“Well, I’m not all that fond of these panic attacks.”
Feeling the muscles of Rin’s back relax under his hand Makoto smiles at his
words, it’s a good sign that he’s making jokes. Makoto’s aware of the soothing
effect he has on his boyfriend as Rin has the same effect on him. They’re each
other’s comfort. They each know exactly what the other needs when they’re
upset. One of the most important things for both of them is physical contact.
With that in mind Makoto lies Rin down and takes his shoes and jacket off
before snuggling in behind him. Drawing Rin tight against his chest with one
arm under his head and the other holding his chest firmly Makoto moulds himself
to his boyfriend’s shape.
“I’m sorry about the mess,” Rin apologises, his voice deep with guilt. “I’ll
clean it up.”
He shakes his head, burying his face in feather soft red hair. “I barely even
noticed. It’s okay though, I’ll help.”
“What do you mean you ‘barely even noticed’? I practically went Axl Rose on the
place. There could have been a burglar… You just came up here without carefully
checking first didn’t you?”
Makoto chuckles sheepishly. “U-Uh, maybe… I just knew you were in trouble and
that’s all I could think about.”
“Just be more careful next time, please,” Rin sighs, hand finding Makoto’s and
lacing their fingers together.
Clearly Rin’s exhausted – and rightfully so with the emotional torture he’s
been through – because usually he’d lecture Makoto about being more concerned
for his own safety. Rin’s lectures probably annoy people – certainly Haru – but
Makoto knows they always derive from a place of deep love and concern, though
it’s difficult to discern with the scowl and stern tone. He always listens
closely to Rin’s lectures, attempting – and mostly failing – to hide his
affectionate smile throughout. Which generally only deepens said scowl and
makes him even more adorable.
After fifteen minutes holding Rin closely, focussing on the steady movement of
his chest as he breathes peacefully, Makoto feels himself drifting off until
Rin speaks.
“You can tell Haru.”
Makoto frowns, raising his head from where it’s pressed against Rin’s back.
“Hm? Tell Haru what?”
Even in the firmness of Makoto’s embrace Rin’s strong body shifts effortlessly
until he’s on his back and gazing up at Makoto with sleep hazy eyes. Seeing Rin
like this, half asleep, deep red hair askew and heavy lidded gaze, is possible
one of the most beautiful things Makoto’s ever seen.
“I know I said I didn’t want you to tell anyone about my… problems, but you can
talk to Haru about it. I trust him. And you.”
Makoto’s eyes widen. “How did you--? Don’t tell me you can read my mind now
too.”
“Of course not, I’m not a freak like you guys,” Rin drawls light-heartedly. “I
just— I know how much it upsets you and I know you won’t want to burden me with
it – no matter how much I tell you it’s fine – so I want you to have someone to
discuss it with.”
This incredibly thoughtful sentiment shouldn’t come as a surprise to Makoto as
Rin’s been relentlessly attempting to help with his selfless need to protect
everyone since before they even got together. Somehow though Rin never ceases
to amaze him. To know that someone as wonderful as Rin cares for him this much
makes Makoto feel so remarkably happy.
“Are you sure?”
“Mm,” he hums.
Rin turns again, now facing Makoto, and curls up against his chest. A content
smile curls Makoto’s mouth as he laces his fingers through Rin’s hair, stroking
it gently as they fall asleep wrapped in each other’s warmth.
Chapter End Notes
     The last part of this came out of nowhere really. It wasn’t in my
     original plan for this chapter. But I wasn’t going to get another
     chance in the others to showcase what I think is the most important
     part of the MakoRin relationship. Makoto’s selflessness is almost at
     a self-harm level and as someone who is almost as bad it makes me
     very upset and protective of Makoto. Especially since no one seems to
     address it. Haru knows, undoubtedly, and it concerns him but I just
     don’t think he knows what to do about it. Rin on the other hand - I
     think Rin would be such an incredible influence on Makoto in this
     regard. I believe Rin can teach Makoto to love himself more, to
     respect his own emotions and put himself first. At least sometimes.
     my_tumblr
***** Day 5 - Different Sport *****
Chapter Summary
     Rin needs to focus on the career he wants in basketball but his love
     for Makoto is extremely distracting.
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
The clean thud of the ball echoes around the court that only twenty minutes ago
was awash in the cacophonous sounds of screeching shoes, commanding calls and
bouncing balls. Rin stoops, widening his stance as he dribbles powerfully and
approaches the basket at full speed. Launching himself from the free throw line
he flies through the air before slamming the ball through the hoop, hand
gripping the rim momentarily before gravity weighs down his body and pulls him
to the ground.
Panting heavily Rin leans over, hands planted on his knees while he catches his
breath. His air time’s getting better but he’s still not happy with the angle
of his arm as he pushes the ball through the hoop, it stretches his muscles
uncomfortably. If he could get some more air time it would be much more
comfortable.
“Matsuoka,” a deep commanding voice calls from behind him, he turns to see
Captain Mikoshiba standing at the door with his bag on his shoulder. “You good
to lock up?”
“Yeah, I’ve got it,” Rin answers, pushing back the loose strands of his sweat
dampened hair.
Mikoshiba nods. “Alright, see ya tomorrow.”
The rest of his team is long gone by now. Mikoshiba generally stays until
everyone else is gone but lately Rin’s been staying longer to work on his
dunking. As Vice-Captain he has his own set of keys so it doesn’t bother anyone
else.
Strolling over to the nearby basketball rack Rin retrieves another burnt orange
ball and twists it between his fingers before bouncing it on the polished wood
floor. He used to have to give the ball experimental bounces and dribbles
before attempting anything but now, after training and playing endlessly for
five years he feels more comfortable with a basketball in his hand than without
it. Dribbling is as natural as breathing to Rin.
He approaches the basket once more, aiming to shoot a simple jump shot from
inside the lane. As the ball arcs up and is about to go into the basket another
ball hits it, both balls deviating away from the basket and bouncing away.
Rin whirls in time to see Makoto’s body relaxing from its post-shot pose – arms
stretched above his head – and his concentrated expression softening into its
usual warm smile. Though it’s far more affectionate when aimed at Rin. Which is
definitely not something he’s noticed or cares about.
“You fucked up my shot,” he grumbles half-heartedly, intentionally pulling up
his sweat soaked white t-shirt to wipe the sweat at his brow and noticing the
way Makoto’s eyes wander down his torso.
Makoto tilts his head and it is not fucking adorable. “You shouldn’t over train
Rin, you’ll injure yourself and we can’t go a game without you. You’re too
important.”
… To the team or to you?
“I didn’t realise you got your Sports Science Degree. Nor that you’re my
mother.”
Stubbornly Rin takes another basketball from the rack and bounces it a couple
of time before going at the hoop. Makoto blocks him from it, stopping Rin short
with a challenging glint in his gem green eyes and a broad playful grin.
Oh, you want to challenge the fucking power forward to a one on one? Rin scoffs
internally but gladly accepts the challenge with his own grin. Bring it on
Tachibana.
Rin pushes more force into his dribbling, the sound growing with the pace, ball
bouncing impossibly fast as he swaps it from hand to hand and through his legs.
The muscles in his leg strain as he pushes pressure back and forth between
them, not even knowing himself which leg he’ll fast break off, which is half
the trick to deceiving your opponent.
His right bicep flexes as he pushes all his strength into his dribble and fast
breaks from his left after a right feint. Makoto’s a shooting guard therefore
he’s not trained to have the fast reflexes Rin does, he keeps up nonetheless
with an impeccable ability to read muscle movement.
Nearly at the basket Makoto guards protectively, solidly built body like an
impenetrable bulwark, Rin pushes his shoulder into Makoto’s chest, dives
backwards, and shoots a fadeaway at the basket.
He scores, the net swishing satisfyingly, but has no time to celebrate as a
shoulder hits him – gently – in the stomach and he’s lifted off his feet. Rin
is swiftly trapped, draped across Makoto’s broad shoulders like a scarf with
his arm and leg held fast at his chest, in a fireman carry.
“Makoto, fuck, put me the hell down!” He shouts and squirms in the other’s iron
grip.
“I don’t think so. You’re showering and then going home.”
Rin relaxes, knowing – from experience – that he can’t escape. “Shit dude,
you’re really going for the mum thing huh?”
He chuckles, the sound utterly delightful. “That would make some of the things
we’ve done rather awkward Rin.”
Rin’s face goes bright red with the comment and he drops his head so that
Makoto can’t see his fluster. Though he likely expects it anyway with how well
they know each other. How the fuck can he be so damn blasé about it?
Makoto bends his knees and places Rin down in the locker room. The taller man
leaves no room for argument when he orders Rin to go shower, offering to clean
up the gym – which is really only putting away the balls and turning the lights
off. With a dramatic pout Rin strips off his sweat sticky t-shirt. In his
peripheral he notices Makoto lingering in the doorway, watching him, before
hurrying off.
Grabbing his towel from his locker Rin makes his way into the open space
showers. Hanging his towel on the hook by the entrance he routinely turns the
hot tap and slowly adds cold water until the spouting water is at his preferred
warm temperature. Rin pulls out the tie that’s barely holding his long hair
back and steps underneath the spray of water. He almost groans out loud as the
warmth soothes his overworked muscles.
He has no idea how long he’s been standing there enjoying the relaxing
sensation but as he tilts his face back into the stream of water and runs his
fingers through his wet hair Rin hears a shower behind him turn on. He turns
his head slightly to see Makoto’s naked form in his peripheral. More
importantly Makoto’s naked back.
Jesus fucking Christ, his back. Rin watches with rapidly pooling arousal as
water streams down the brunet’s impeccably sculpted back, over the crests of
his well-shaped arse and between his solidly muscled thighs.
Turning swiftly Rin faces the wall and leans against it as he works to control
his racing heart.
They’re not together. They should be. They both know this. They’re both so
hopelessly in love with each other and kiss and fuck and every touch is so
charged with elecricity that it’s almost unbearable. But Rin obstinately
refuses to acknowledge a relationship.
It’s a distraction. Rin needs to focus on his basketball, it’s everything to
him. His every goal and dream revolves around the sport and he will do
anything, sacrifice anything, to achieve that dream. It doesn’t make him crave
Makoto any less. Physically, emotionally. He just wants—
But he can’t.
How Makoto remains so patient with him he will never know. When Rin explained
Makoto understood, so unwaveringly supportive, he understood and accepted it.
It only made Rin want him more. Just be selfish Makoto, for once, just be
selfish and take me. Make me yours, but Rin knows he won’t.
Rin’s not even surprised when familiar fingers press tenderly into his lower
back, wrapping around his hips. He was anticipating it to the point that his
skin was tingling, aching for Makoto’s touch. Rin shivers as fingers slide up
his sides effortlessly under the continual spray of water, caressing the
sensitive skin of his sides.
Strong arms wrap around him as Makoto leans against him. “Rin…”
Rin feels himself crumbling, melting in the utter adoration of Makoto’s embrace
and the power the short sound of his name has when shaped by Makoto’s mouth. It
makes him shudder and a sharp breath is released as his jaw drops open. Makoto
mouths at Rin’s neck, licking and nipping at his pale skin and grinding his
hardened length against his arse cheek. He didn’t think his body could get
hotter after the physical exertion of basketball training and the satisfyingly
warm shower but Makoto’s closeness gives a whole new meaning to the word
‘heat’.
“Mm, Ma-koto,” Rin groans eagerly. “I need you to fuck me.”
Halting his actions Makoto pulls away. Rin’s about to complain playfully,
though his immediate instinct is concern, when a hand grips at his wrists and
turns him, pinning him against the tiled wall he barely notices the coldness
of. With the abruptness of the movement Rin expects to find fire burning
brightly in Makoto’s eyes but instead meets an intensely loving green gaze that
sucks the air straight out of his lungs.
“No,” Makoto says, leaning in so that their noses touch, so painfully close to
Rin’s mouth.
“Please Makoto,” he all but whines.
He shakes his head sternly. “No Rin, I won’t.”
At this point Rin’s uncertain whether Makoto’s being a complete tease,
uncharacteristically cruel or something else altogether that he cannot
comprehend with lust addled brain. But a knee is pushed between his legs,
spreading them, and Makoto’s thigh presses against his erection, eliciting a
needy moan. Makoto swallows the sound, wet mouth claiming Rin’s, sucking
fervently at his lips. He reciprocates hungrily, tongue sliding into Makoto’s
mouth, tracing the line of his lips, teeth and clashing with his tongue. Makoto
adjusts against him, hands firmly clutching Rin’s hips, and grinds them
together.
Makoto always has control in their sexual encounters. Not because he’s taller
or bigger or stronger but because it would be unfair for Rin to initiate
intimacy when he’s the one denying the relationship, he doesn’t want to lead
Makoto on. Rin doesn’t reject their physicality though. He can’t. He needs it.
He needs Makoto. Somehow Makoto always knows when he needs it too. And like the
perfect fucking saint he is he just accepts it without complaint or comment.
Rin doesn’t deserve him.
He sucks his bottom lip between his teeth to supress a groan as Makoto’s hand
slides down between them and grips both of their cocks Rin suddenly knows what
he had meant when he said he wouldn’t fuck him. Makoto’s protecting him,
protecting his body. He doesn’t want to hurt Rin with the game coming up. If
not for the overwhelmingly pleasurable friction on his dick right now that
thought alone would tear him up and break him down.
I don’t deserve you.
Makoto’s wrist twists and flicks as he works them both closer and closer to the
edge. With his arms around Makoto’s shoulders Rin pushes his fingers into his
thick damp brown hair and forces his head up so kiss him. Hard. They breathe
erratically between kisses as Rin’s body undulates instinctively against
Makoto’s strength.
“R-Rin,” he groans, panting heavily. “I-I… can’t—anymore--”
“Mm, me t-too.”
His head snaps back, hitting the tile hard as his whole body tenses and a
string of expletives and Makoto’s name stutters out his throat uncontrolled.
Makoto bows his head against Rin’s shoulder as he cries out his name, milking
them both through it.
As Rin slowly comes down all the emotion of the interaction hits him and
without Makoto’s solid weight pinning him against the wall he’d likely fall.
His breath grows erratic for entirely different reasons as he screws his eyes
shut and tries not to tremble.
I don’t fucking deserve you.
“Rin…?”
Of course he fucking notices. The taller boy lifts his head from Rin’s shoulder
and hands slide tentatively up his sides, steadying and supportive as he holds
Rin. Sucking in a deep breath – that somehow miraculously doesn’t shudder – he
calms himself. Unfolding his arms that are desperately clasped around Makoto’s
neck Rin pushes against his chest, distancing them. Makoto’s hands remain at
his hips but Rin can feel his grip loosening as he gazes into the cold
expression forced onto Rin’s face.
Please don’t let go.
Makoto’s arms drop to his sides and he takes a step back. He doesn’t look hurt
or upset or angry, he only looks worried. Worried for Rin. Ridiculously,
selflessly worried.
“I need to finish showering,” Rin states, the emotionless words grating at his
throat as the voice inside screams at him not to say them.
Makoto merely nods and hesitantly makes his way back to his own shower.
I love you. I’m so impossibly, agonisingly in love with you Makoto. I want you.
I need you, Rin wants to say.
But he can’t.
Chapter End Notes
     Couldn’t get through MakoRin week without some smut ^_^ that somehow
     became a lot more emotional than I expected. Shit. Rin always fucks
     me up emotionally.
     This hurts D:
     my_tumblr
***** Day 6 - AU *****
Chapter Summary
     The world has gone to hell, the walking dead plague the earth while
     Rin and Makoto work to keep their group alive.
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
 
Rifling through the empty draws is becoming more disheartening by the second.
As soon as Rin laid eyes on the house he’d known it’d already been scavenged
but Makoto had been optimistic. Always so extraordinarily optimistic in the
face of… Well, everything.
The world has ended. Basically. And yet Makoto remains positive that they’ll
survive all the dangerous flesh eating monsters and gun-wielding inbred fucks
that now – probably – roam every region on earth. The man is a damn saint of
patience and determination. Rin’s honestly inexplicably and eternally grateful
for it because Makoto’s probably the main reason they’ve even survived the six
months since the outbreak.
Rin swears under his breath as he finds the last possible hiding place in this
room empty. Hopefully Haru’s just as unsuccessful or he’ll never live it down.
Which is a ridiculous notion because of course finding supplies is always
better than not finding them… Even if Haru beats him to it. He supposes.
Letting out a defeated sigh Rin makes his way back into the main area of the
house where Sousuke’s keeping watch, a shotgun resting casually against his
shoulder. His best friend raises a dark questioning eyebrow at him that Rin
responds to with a rueful shake of his head. Squatting down next to his pack at
Sousuke’s feet Rin produces a bottle of water and offers it to him.
“Nah, I’m good,” Sousuke declines. “Thanks.”
Unscrewing the lid Rin takes a sparing mouthful. They’re running low on
supplies, food mostly. They’ve all lost a bit of weight over the last few
weeks.
“We’re gunna have to work something else out,” Rin remarks, putting away the
bottle and straightening, stretching his arms above his head, shoulders popping
satisfyingly. “Scavenging’s no longer working. Everything’s… well, scavenged.”
Sousuke hums in agreement. “But what else is there?”
“I don’t know…”
Footsteps draw his attention – but not worriedly as Sousuke remains relaxed,
but alert, with his eyes trained on the door – and Rin turns to see Haru and
Makoto approaching. The two are deep in silent conversation, and when he says
silent he doesn’t mean hushed tones he means utterly unspoken words. They just
look at each other. Knowing. It’s creepy. But he’s used to it. It often comes
in handy in difficult situations so sometimes he even appreciates it. Doesn’t
make it any less creepy.
“I told you there would be nothing here,” Rin says.
“You found nothing?” Haru asks, voice soothing in its monotony, even in the
most stressful of situations – another thing that’s helped them survive, Haru’s
unwavering composure. “I win then.”
Rin scoffs, incredulous. “You do not. What the hell did you even find?”
Sousuke wanders off, mumbling some military talk about the perimeter – his
combat training and sense another one of the reasons they’ve survived. He
likely just wants to get away from the developing argument between Rin and Haru
that he’s noted on numerous occasions to be senseless.
“Gum.”
Fighting the urge to roll his eyes Rin settles for sighing. “Haru, gum is not
helpful.”
“None for you then. It’ll help with dental hygiene.”
“You were right Rin, there’s nothing here,” Makoto interrupts, seeing the way
Rin’s face scrunches with irritation at Haru’s words. “I doubt there will be
anything else in the other houses.”
Rin can practically see Makoto’s optimistic light flickering before his eyes
and it pains him. As much as he jokes about it he really needs that optimism.
He really needs Makoto. While Sousuke and Haru have their merits moral is not
one of them and in this dauntingly darkened world they all need Makoto’s light.
Makoto is Rin’s strength.
“We should still try,” Rin allows, offering Makoto a warm smile. “But I think
we should--”
Suddenly Sousuke rushes back into the abandoned, dilapidated house. “Herd.”
“Shit, how close?” Rin questions, eyes wide with apprehension.
“Too close.”
That’s all they need to hurriedly throw their bags into a kitchen cupboard and
make their way into the entrance hall where Sousuke assures there is a closet.
Pulling open the door Rin’s heart sinks at its size. Too small, it’s too
small.Sousuke and Haru are inside quickly, filling the space. Two sets of blue
eyes gazing back at Rin and Makoto with what only can be described as quickly
onset dread.
“There’s another one,” Makoto says quickly, taking Rin’s hand and not looking
back.
Rin follows after him and sees two rotting corpses ambling by the house through
the broken front door before he’s pulled around a corner. Makoto stops in front
of a closet door while Rin glances about nervously. Once he’s inside Rin goes
to follow, ducking into the closet without looking and smashing his forehead
into the shelf that cuts the closet at shoulder height.
Fuck, shit, son of a mother dick shit! Rin internalises all his pain so as to
not make any noise, clenching his jaw painfully tight as he holds a groan.
Somehow he manages to hunch into the closet and close the door behind him
before he hears awkward zombie shuffling through the house.
The first thing he’s aware of is how close he is to Makoto and all thoughts
about his pain dissipate.
The man’s not small, he’s big; even with their food rationing Makoto’s managed
to maintain his sturdy build. Rin’s once toned athletic physic is much leaner –
though he’s much more worried about Haru’s slender figure – hell, even
Sousuke’s looking smaller than Makoto.
“He must just be built that way,” Sousuke had theorised.
“Makoto’s like a hibernating bear, he lowers his metabolic rate and processes
the food slower,” Haru had responded far less rationally while cuddling into
said bear.
Makoto’s solid body and warmth would be comforting if not for the erratic
hammering of Rin’s pulse and fire coursing through his veins. Comforting Rin
through his injury Makoto has a hand cupped gently around his neck, rubbing
soothingly at his jaw, and his other hand pressed to Rin’s chest supportively.
He knows Makoto means nothing by it, it’s just his naturally nurturing and
protective instinct. He’s like this with Haru often enough. But Rin likes
Makoto. More than likes him. And hasn’t exactly expressed as much with all the
running, zombie killing and surviving. Therefore this intimacy makes Rin
nervous and more than a little excited.
In the unbelievably small space, hunched forward and leaning into each other,
Rin turns his head to face Makoto with wide eyes. As if realising what he’s
doing and who he’s doing it to Makoto freezes. His hand abruptly falls from
Rin’s neck and chest and he offers an apologetic smile.
The air between them grows increasingly hard to breathe and warm, so absurdly
warm. They’re both so tense and look anywhere but at each other. Though they’re
not touching – both actually working awfully hard not to – Rin can practically
feel the rigidity of Makoto’s body.
Rin’s forcing himself to focus on the door muffled sounds through the house
rather than Makoto’s warm breath ghosting his neck and shoulder. They stay
silently like that for what feels like an hour – but in reality is probably
only twenty minutes. It’s an awkward and uncomfortable position to stand in,
and not just because of their closeness, but the bend it sets their knees in
and slump of their shoulders and neck actually hurts. Probably more so for
Makoto who’s taller and looks like he’s endeavouring to make himself as small
as possible for Rin’s sake.
Noticing the way Makoto’s legs are shaking he sighs softly. Nudging at the
taller man’s arm to get his attention Rin points down. When Makoto glances back
up, Rin notices his eyes are heavy lidded, tired green iris’s lacking their
usual glimmer in the dimness of their confines. Makoto frowns, uncertain what
Rin is signally.
“Sit down,” Rin whispers, barely audible.
Makoto’s eyebrows raise in question as he inspects the space below them and Rin
nods, hands on his shoulders pushing him down. Which he abruptly stops doing
when his sinful mind realises what it looks like he’s doing. Innocent Makoto
doesn’t notice of course.
Moving slowly, careful not to make any noise, Makoto lowers himself onto the
cramped floor. Rin widens his stance to make room for Makoto’s raised knees –
there is no room for him to cross his legs – and as he glances down to make
sure he’s comfortable heat envelops his face because holy shit…Makoto is
between his legs, Rin’s crotch ever so close to his upturned face that’s
smiling brightly and appreciatively at him.
This was a really bad fucking idea.
Pushing his arse hard against the wall to keep his crotch as far from Makoto’s
face as possible Rin swiftly looks away from the questioning green eyes.
Calm the fuck down! Rin berates himself. This is a life or death situation
where you’re surrounded by flesh eating zombies and could very possiblydie… It
isnotthe time for a hard-on. Breathing heavily – but quietly – he fights
against the heat swirling in his abdomen.
Fingers tentatively touch his thigh, raising goosebumps on his skin and Rin
snaps his eyes open to glance down at the man he’s standing over. Makoto has
that concerned set to his pursed lips as he gestures for Rin to sit… In his
lap.
Immediately Rin’s eyes widen and he shakes his head. Indicatively Makoto lowers
his gaze to Rin’s legs and for the first time Rin realises he too is shaking.
They’ve been walking all day, he’s tired and sore and now stiff from being in
this awkward position too long.
No, no, no. No fucking way. I am absolutely not going to sit in Makoto’s lap!
“I’m fine,” Rin mouths, shaking his head obstinately.
Makoto tilts his head and sighs. “Stop being stubborn.”
He grips at Rin’s leg, hand firmly around his thigh. Gritting his teeth through
the shudder that shoots through his body he sternly shakes his head at Makoto
again.
“If you fall and make noise you’ll get both of us killed,” Makoto whispers
slowly.
   1. How to make Matsuoka Rin do things: threaten the safety of the people he
      cares about. Knowing that he’s victorious Makoto reaches up for Rin and
      pulls him down by his hips. Normally he’d absolutely be struggling
      against this action, squirming and backing away completely flustered. The
      fluster is there but due to the fact that they’re surrounded by a herd
      zombies he somehow manages to internalise everything.
Sliding onto Makoto’s lap Rin settles and takes some deep breathes that he
really hopes Makoto doesn’t notice. But, honestly, they’re way too close for
him not to notice.
Everything is fine Rin, no need to freak out,he reassures himself. Poorly. Who
am I kidding, there is plenty of reason to freak out! I’m sitting on Makoto’s
dick right now. And he’s just staring at me. Why is he staring at me? He’s—
Strong fingers bite into Rin’s thighs, causing him to tense and stare wide eyed
into mesmerizingly intense green eyes. Makoto’s hands slide up his thighs
painfully slowly and setting Rin’s nerves on fire in their wake, until they
reach his hips where fingers press firmly into his arse. Okay, if Rin wasn’t
hard before – which he was at least half hard because it’s not like they have a
lot a spare time to ‘take care of business’ – he most certainly is now. Not
that he even has the mental capacity to process that as his brain is slowly
being sucked out his eyes by that fucking green gaze.
“Rin…” Makoto whispers and somehow he hears it over the deafening pounding of
his heart.
As a hand moves from his hip and up his torso Rin leans into it, arching his
back and just barely catching a moan in his throat as he involuntarily rubs
himself against Makoto. With that Makoto loses patience, hand reaching around
the back of Rin’s head and pulling him forward to kiss him. It’s slow and Rin
can feel every sensual movement of Makoto’s mouth in exquisite detail. When he
finally gets over the shock of it Rin reciprocates, more hungrily though,
fingers curling into Makoto’s messy sandy brown hair.
The hand on his hip starts forcefully rocking him until Rin catches on and
continues the movement himself, finally aware of Makoto’s hardness against him.
Rin feels like he’s burning up, the pleasurable friction on his dick eliciting
moans that Makoto swallows fervently.
Hot, so fucking hot, Rin thinks, desperately wishing he were naked right now.
Not only so he could cool down but to feel Makoto’s warm, tan skin against his
and to roam the contours of his muscled body with his fingers and tongue. He
wishes that they were horizontal, that he could feel—
The door suddenly opens and with reflexes that sometimes scare even himself Rin
pulls away from Makoto’s mouth, draws his handgun and aims. But he doesn’t
shoot.
“God fucking damn it, Sous! I nearly shot you!” Rin growls, lowering his weapon
as his heart races for entirely different reasons.
Haru and Sousuke are standing at the closet door staring down at them with
blank expressions and Rin suddenly remembers what the fuck he was just doing.
To Makoto. With Makoto. On Makoto. Who is currently scratching the back on his
head with an awkward smile on his far too attractive face.
Haru extends his hand in front of Sousuke. “Pay up.”
“Oh come on,” Sousuke complains, his brow furrowed, annoyed. “You practically
have a psychic connection with Makoto. It’s totally not fair.”
“Then you shouldn’t have bet on it.”
Groaning loudly Sousuke pulls a bite sized snickers from his coat pocket and
places in begrudgingly in Haru’s hand.
“Pleasure doing business with you.”
“Fuck you, Haruka.”
“You’re welcome to.”
At this point the scowl on Rin’s face is so deep he feels like it’s going to
stay that way, sitting on Makoto with no intension of getting up. “You bet on
us?”
Haru nods solemnly, completely ignoring the rare chocolate in his hand. “Yes, I
bet you’d be making out in here. Clearly I won. Sousuke said you’d be too much
of a pussy.”
“Oh don’t give me that face, we all know Makoto made the first move.”
Rin sighs, defeated and really not wanting the argument to continue when his
erection is pressing painfully hard against his pants – not going away despite
the ridiculously embarrassing circumstances – that he desperately wants to
attend to. With Makoto’s help.
“Don’t act like you idiots weren’t doing the same,” Rin throws back at the
blue-eyed smartarses.
Haru and Sousuke glance at each other, the action and their silence saying more
than their perpetually expressionless faces, before Haru turns on his heel and
walks away.
Rin’s eyes shoot wide. “Wait, what? You did? I was joking!”
“Please close the door,” Makoto requests in his sweetest voice.
Unable to deny the angel of a man Sousuke obliges. “We’ll ah… Keep watch.”
When their enclosed in the small space once more Rin’s still staring at the
back of the door baffled until Makoto draws his attention with a gentle squeeze
of his thigh. Turning Rin’s met with a bright affectionate smile that’s always
taken his breath away, only now it’s full of unconcealed warmth and adoration,
for him. For Rin.
When you smile, Makoto, your light is so bright it could replace the sun.
“Rin,” Makoto starts, his voice low again but less out of fear of the monsters
and more intimate, like he’s disclosing an important secret. His cups Rin’s
cheek, thumb brushing tenderly across his cheekbone. “I’m in love with you.”
Well, shit.
Rin had not been expecting that. Considering Makoto’s actions he’s suspected
there was attraction and considering how close they are, how long they’ve been
friends, he suspected Makoto likes him. But love? Definitely unexpected. But
certainly not unwelcome. Quite the opposite.
A smile stretches Rin’s mouth uninhibited. “Me too. I love you too Makoto.”
Makoto grins even more brightly – if that is even possible – before leaning
forward to claim Rin’s mouth in a toothy kiss due to their giddy smiles. Rin’s
heart is no longer hammering but fluttering. He feels light. Happy.
“How does everyone know more about what’s going on in this group than me?” Rin
pouts when he pulls away, but only enough to rest their foreheads together.
Makoto smiles warmly. “Can’t really blame you, you’ve been so focussed on
keeping us alive. It’s because of you that we’re going as well as we are and
aren’t dead like…” he swallows, smile dropping before kissing Rin on the cheek.
“You’re our heart Rin, the reason we strive to survive every new, painfully
harsh day. We’d be lost without you. I’d be lost without you.”
“Makoto…”
Rin’s eyes are wide and he can feel emotional tears prickling at the back of
his eyes. But he doesn’t want to cry. Not now. Not when he has Makoto wrapped
around him – and is still very hard, go figure. So he leans in to kiss him,
sliding his tongue over Makoto’s bottom lip and sucking on his tongue.
“I’m sorry I didn’t tell you sooner,” Makoto says, breathing rather heavily.
“You know, in more appealing circumstances.”
“What the fuck are you talking about? This is way better than a romantic picnic
or a first class restaurant… which don’t exist anymore,” Rin smiles ruefully.
“But the circumstances are pretty awesome. And so romantic. I mean, I’m sitting
on your dick right now.”
“So romantic,” Makoto mimics with a chuckle, a flush rising on his cheeks.
“Though it also feels… good… If you, just…”
Rin rolls his hips, grinding down with a large grin. “Like this?”
“Mm, yes,” he groans and then urges needily, “Rin.”
“You’re right. More skin.”
Chapter End Notes
     This is probably one of the fluffiest zombie AU’s ever. I could never
     write a Free! zombie AU. Just imaging a skinny, hungry Haru makes me
     want to blubber like a baby because I’m an over protective mother of
     the precious Free! babies.
***** Day 7 - Christmas *****
Chapter Summary
     Just before Christmas Eve ticks over to Christmas Day Makoto and Rin
     complete one of their strange relationship traditions.
Chapter Notes
See the end of the chapter for notes
“Rin, I want to go to sleep.”
“Go ahead.”
“I mean I want to go to bed and sleep,” he verifies, nuzzling into Rin’s soft
red hair.
Makoto’s lying on the couch – that was bought specifically to fit his height –
and Rin is lying on top of him, weight comfortable spread across his entire
length. They’ve been like this for an hour, silently watching random Christmas
programs on television without actually watching it, simply enjoying each
other’s closeness and company. Of course he could roll Rin off and leave but
really he wants Rin to accompany him – merely for cuddles, they’re both too
tired for anything more physical.
Shifting his weight carefully Rin pushes himself back onto his knees before
standing and extending his hand to Makoto to help him up. Turning the lights
and television off they make their way into their bedroom. Having already
showered and dressed in comfortable pyjamas – the moment they got home from
their busy day – Makoto crawls across the bed and shuffles under the soft
covers.
“Wait, we forgot the last present,” Rin recalls as he’s about to turn the light
off and join Makoto.
“We can just give them in the morning.”
“No, we have to do it today.”
Sitting up reluctantly Makoto meets Rin’s powerful, unyielding vermillion gaze
and heaves a sigh. Arguing with him when he has that intensity in his striking
eyes is entirely pointless – like trying to get Haru to eat anything other than
mackerel.
“Okay, okay,” Makoto allows, glancing at the clock on the side table. “There
are only ten minutes left of the day though so you better be quick.”
With that Rin sets off out the door and into their dark house. Hearing a loud
crash and Rin’s profuse growling obscenities Makoto knows he’s injured himself
in his impatience to get the two remaining Christmas presents in the living
room.
“Rin, turn the light on so you don’t hurt yourself!”
The light down the hall flicks on. “Yes dear!” Rin calls back sarcastically.
A smile curls Makoto’s mouth as he shakes his head.
They’ve been together for seven years and known each other for twice that which
means getting each other Christmas gifts grew to be impossible. Therefore they
stopped attempting to give each other big, meaningful gifts and started getting
smaller, less significant – often silly – gifts. It became enjoyable to the
point that Makoto’s now on lookout for interesting gifts for Rin all year round
and vice versa. They give seven gifts in the week before Christmas, one on each
day, and the gift they give each other on Christmas Day – night – is far more
carnal. After a tiresome day with both their families and friends they need it.
It is one of the more unusual traditions they’ve acquired as a couple.
“Ugh, it’s cold out there,” Rin grumbles having stripped his shirt before he
remembered the gifts and quickly getting under the covers.
No matter how cold it is Rin cannot sleep in anything more than boxer briefs,
something about the material twisting annoyingly. Makoto’s the complete
opposite, in winter especially he loves to be snuggled in the layers of his
clothes, the covers and Rin, because he gets cold easily. Luckily Rin’s like a
furnace and keeps him warm through the night.
Sitting the pillow up behind him Makoto drags Rin against his chest and wraps
him in a blanketed embrace. Rin grumbles about being crushed and Makoto giggles
before loosening his grip so Rin can sit upright but his arm remains around his
waist.
“You go first,” Makoto says, scratching his chin with his free hand. “I think
this is the worst of my lot.”
“It could be ribbon tied shit and I’d love it, as long as it’s from you.”
“Well that’s sweet… But also disgusting.”
Rin’s fingers move deftly over the red and green reindeer covered wrapping
paper, opening it neatly rather than Makoto’s preferred attack strategy of
ripping it to shreds.
“Really?” Rin raises an eyebrow at him. “Street Sharks?”
Makoto chuckles, feeling his face heat up slightly. “It’s Ripster, he’s the
great white shark… I told you it’s the worst. B-But it’s not like I don’t get
you heaps of shark things.”
A smile stretches Rin’s mouth enough to show teeth as Makoto rambles. “I’m
joking you big goof. Can’t believe I can still get you with that. It’s awesome!
I’ll have to get you the killer_whale one to go with it.”
“Ew, no thank you, that thing has its tongue hanging out. At least Ripster has
abs.”
“Oh? I understand why you’re with me now,” Rin jokes with raised eyebrows while
Makoto simply shakes his head. Not falling for that again. “Quick, open yours.
Four minutes left.”
Makoto tears hurriedly into the beautifully wrapped present while Rin, aka
mister perfectionist who insists on wrapping all the presents, clicks his
tongue at the mess he’s making all over both of them. Inside is a flat plain
brown box and when he lifts the lid his eyes widen, mouth dropping open in
delight. He makes an odd giggly noise as he removes the fluffy_grey_gloves from
the box.
“Oh my God, they’re adorable,” Makoto gapes as his fingers slide across the
soft surface and he practically melts.
He can feel Rin watching him with dreamy scarlet eyes as Makoto slips the
gloves on his hands, covering the ring on his left hand. He wiggles his fingers
through the fingerless holes and pokes at the soft pink imitation of cat pads
on his palm. They make his large hands look practically childlike hidden in the
fluffy fleece.
“You’re adorable,” Rin finally breathes.
Glancing up Makoto’s met with Rin’s loving expression that softens his sharp
features and never ceases to make Makoto’s heart soar. He’s always been so
proud that he’s the one that can coax such a tender expression from Rin. It
quickly disappears though when Makoto places his fluffy gloved hands on either
side of Rin’s face and squeezes his cheeks together, giggling at the scowl
Rin’s attempting to make. Leaning forward Makoto kisses Rin’s puckered lips.
“Best Christmas ever,” Makoto declares, wrapping his arms around Rin’s waist.
“You say that every year.”
“And it’s always true. Every Christmas I spend with you is the best.”
Rin hums against his shoulder. “Well you better get used to it because I’m not
going anywhere.”
Makoto finds his husband’s hand and rubs his thumb over the white gold ring on
his finger as if he can feel the etching of his own name on the inside. There
is truly nothing and no one Makoto’s ever loved as much as he loves Matsuoka
Rin.
His eyes flicker over to the digital clock, the red numbers the same colour as
the love of his life’s eyes. “Merry Christmas, Rin.”
“Merry Christmas, Makoto.”
Chapter End Notes
     Oh man, I don’ think I’ve ever written anything this fluffy in my
     life. But it feels so right with these two gorgeously adorable swim
     babies.
     Yes, it is a 50% Off reference (couldn't get through without one). I
     used to watch Street Sharks when I was a kid. Great show! ^_^ Also
     found those gloves and just knew Makoto NEEDED THEM!
     Effffff, I loved writing these way too much! These beautiful boys
     give me life and I wish there was more content on them; they honestly
     deserve it and each other. They’re truly perfect, independently and
     together.
     Happy holidays everyone~! Be safe and eat much ^_^
End Notes
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