Author: Wow, surprised I updated so soon? :grins: I am too. :perks up: Hey, I put some links up on my bio thing, I scribbled pics of Reiz and Yasu, so if the links work, go check them out. Thank u to the reviewers too!

“Hey, Yasuo.”

Ignore that little voice Yasuo, it’s nothing but trouble.

“Yasuo!!” The hushed whisper practically shouted.

Just pretend that you’re not surrounded by idiots, maybe they will go away.

“I know you can hear us Yasu.” There was a pout to the voice.

Yasuo smiled cheerfully, his eye twitching with suppressed rage. “That doesn’t mean I want to talk to you.” He hissed through clenched teeth.

Miki pouted and stuck her tongue out at him. “Aw, don’t be mean Yasu, we’re just trying to keep you company.” She reasoned.

Rei winked beside her friend. “After all, we’re stuck here together; we might as well try to get along.” She chuckled.

They were indeed “stuck together”, in detention that is. They had been sitting in the tiny classroom for the past hour, serving their time if you will.

Yasuo lowered his head onto his desk, clenching his hands in fists and trying not to throw a tantrum. “It’s because of you two that I’m here.” He spat.

“You shouldn’t have been talking in class Yasu.” Miki scolded.

The grey head shot up, eyes wide. “Are you kidding me?! You were the one talking!” He exploded. “Do you think I want to be here?!”

“Hn, well it can’t be helped anyway.” Rei shrugged. “What’s done is done as they say.”

“Who says that?” Miki asked curiously.

“Yeah, I want to kill them for thinking of something so stupid.” Yasuo muttered, turning in his seat so that he was facing the window.

“Shush if you’re going to be in a bad mood.” Miki sniffed.

“Well I wouldn’t be in such a bad mood if -”

“Is there something you wish to discuss Mr. Kawashima?” The teacher watching over their detention period returned from his errand.

Yasuo flushed. “N-no, sorry.” He bowed his head, ignoring the giggles from the other girls.

The man nodded. “Very well then, I think you three have suffered enough” He smiled jokingly. “As long as you’ve learned your lesson I’ll let you go.”

“We’ve learned our lesson!” Rei saluted. “We’ll be good, promise.”

Miki chuckled. “We’ll make sure Yasuo stays out of trouble too.” She said as she went to the boy’s side to help him up.

The teacher smiled. “Alright then, please shut the door on your way out.” He then left.

“You see, that wasn’t so bad!” Rei laughed.

Yasuo had been pulled out of his seat and Miki linked arms with him. “Yeah, right.” He sighed.

“Come on.” Miki drawled with a smirk. “I’ll treat you to ice cream.” She proposed.

Yasuo’s eyes shifted. “I don’t know.” He sighed dramatically. “I’m not sure ice cream is going to be enough this time, it is the first day of school and already you’ve ruined my reputation.”

“Oh come on Yasu!” Miki tugged at his arm. “Don’t be so mean!”

Rei watched on silently, smiling as the two continued their banter. She slowly glanced away, allowing her gaze to roam the empty hall. Her eyes suddenly widened from their sleepy state.

“Miki!” She hissed.

The brunette turned away from the boy. “Huh?” She frowned.

Rei nodded toward the end of the hall where a form could be seen. “It’s Mark!”

Miki’s eyes glowed brightly and Yasuo chose to gain a confused expression.

“Who?”

“Mark, only the hottest transfer student.” Rei smirked.

“Hey!” Miki protested.

Rei held up her hands. “Just stating the truth, you can’t blame a girl for looking.”

Yasuo continued to stare blankly at the boy approaching them. He supposed Rei was correct in her description of him. The youth was slightly tall, his uniform snugly fitting his slim shoulders, the forest green doing well to ascent his hazel eyes. His brown hair was curled slightly at his neck, barely brushing his shoulders. But the color couldn’t be described so plainly, the smooth locks were like melted honey, dripping into his face and kissing his pale skin.

“Hello there.” Perfectly white teeth flashed as the boy stepped forward.

Yasuo blinked out of his stupor, realizing that he had been staring; he was surprised to find an extended hand pointed toward him. He returned the firm handshake hesitantly with a nervous smile.

“Eh, hello.”

“Hi Mark!” Miki smiled, slinking forward.

The foreign student turned toward the girl with a sweet smile. “Miki.” He nodded, lightly taking her hand and brushing a kiss across her knuckles.

Yasuo remained poised close to Rei, uncomfortable around the new boy though the girls seemed to know him.

Mark smiled at the trio and gestured toward his school uniform. “Sorry about my clothes, but at my other school we were required to wear them.” He laughed slightly. “I haven’t had time to go out and buy new clothes yet.” He explained.

“No one is complaining.” Rei waved a dismissing hand.

A hazel gaze turned toward Yasuo and continued to watch silently.

Yasuo shifted. “So, um, where are you from?” He looked away.

“Ireland.” He drawled. “My father recently moved us to Japan for business reasons.”

“Wow, and you learned Japanese so quickly?” Rei whistled in appreciation.

Mark smiled charmingly. “Well I’ve been practicing off and on for a while.” He shrugged. “It was difficult to pick up, but I had to adjust if I’m going to be living here.”

Yasuo glanced to the side and managed to peak a look out the window. He straightened as he spied a familiar head of silver. “Hey guys, I’ll catch you later, I’m going to head home.” He waved as he moved away.

“What about the ice cream?!” Miki called after his retreating form.

Yasuo rounded the corner. “Later!”

“Bye Yasuo!” Rei screamed.

Gotta catch Reizo before he leaves! Faster, must go faster. Yasuo chanted as he flew down the stairs and through the empty halls.

He broke through the front doors, still speeding, only to…

“Oomph!”

Run into a solid body and fall to the ground with a rough thump.

“Ow!” He moaned as he rubbed his head. “Damn, now I’ll never catch him.” He mourned.

“Catch who?” A soft voice grinned.

“Reizo!” Yasuo’s head shot up in alarm.

“The one and only.” Blue eyes shone with mirth as he helped the smaller boy to his feet.

“I was trying to catch up to you before you left.” He admitted.

“Really, why?” The silver head cocked quizzically.

“Because-” Yasu began. Did he have a reason?

His answer was cut short – not that he had one anyway – by Reizo’s sudden and excited jump. “Oh, yeah!” He perked up.

“What?” Yasuo frowned; afraid he had down something wrong.

Reizo pounced on him excitedly. “You’ll never guess what happened at practice!” He practically screamed.

Yasuo grinned, his friend’s happy mood contagious. “What happened?”

“Our gig!” His eyes lit up. “We have another one, it was last minute but who cares!” He cheered.

“When is it and where is it?” Yasuo smiled.

“Tonight, at club Hoshi Akai!” Reizo laughed.

Gold eyes blinked in surprise. “So soon, but you guys haven’t prepared or anything.”

There was a wave of hand. “We’ve been practicing for months, we’ll be fine.” Reizo reassured. “But you are coming right?” He came back to the reason he had found the boy.

Yasuo thought over his plans for that night and came up with a blank. “Sure, I don’t think I’m doing anything important.”

Reizo’s smile glowed. “That’s great.” He breathed, eyes shining. “I’ll pick you up at eight then.”

Yasuo flushed. “Okay.” He agreed, trying not to sound too eager.

Reizo nodded. “Great, I’ll see you later.” He waved as he ran off.

“Later.” Yasuo murmured to himself.

He waited a few seconds for the information to sink in and finally he cheered at his good fortune. “Yes!” He squealed.

He paused. “Shit, what am I going to wear?!”

“Should I wear a jacket?” Yasuo mused. “Would it match with my outfit?”

He poised in front of the mirror, holding a faded jacket against his chest and frowned.

“Eh, hopefully it won’t be cold.” He shrugged as he tossed the piece clothing amongst the pile of unwanted outfits.

He stared at himself now, pouting his lips and trying to look alluring. The muscle shirt he was wearing was a light powder blue. His cargo pants remained crème, covering his sneakers loosely. He wriggled his fingers in his left cut-off glove, only choosing one for affect; it also was blue, matching his shirt.

He cocked his black cap and smirked at his reflection. “Perfect.”

“Yasuo, your friend is here!”

“I’m coming Mom!” He called back.

My timing is perfect too. He grinned as he bounced excitedly down the stairs.

He came to a stop at the foot of the stairs and tried desperately not to drool as he spied his “friend”.

Oh my God! He’s so fucking hot!!

Reizo stood with a bright grin and his hip cocked. It seemed he was dressed for the show and that was just fine with Yasuo.

His spiky hair which always defied gravity seemed to have been defeated for this special occasion, it hung softly around Reizo’s face and shoulders. His clothes weren’t too shabby either. His forest green jacket covered his loose tee which was a shade of turquoise while his slate pants pooled about his hips and legs.

“Ready?” He smiled, holding out his hand.

Yasuo’s jaw worked but no words would come; instead he settled on an undignified squeak and nodded slightly.

This caused Reizo to grin brighter and he walked closer to Yasuo to whisper in his ear.

“I think your mom is suspicious of me Yasu.” His breath was hot on Yasuo’s cheek.

“H-huh?” Yasuo’s eyes were glazed as the boy pulled away.

“Are you ready to go?” Reizo held out his hand again, looking past Yasuo’s lack of comprehension.

“O-oh, right, sorry.” Yasuo blushed and took the proffered hand in his own quivering one.

“I’ll see you later Mom.” He called over his shoulder as he closed the door.

“Have fun dear!” His mother returned his shout from the kitchen.

The two teens stood outside in the cool air for a moment and Yasuo shivered. Reizo frowned as they moved toward his car.

“Do you want to grab a jacket while we’re still here?” He nodded toward the house.

Yasuo waved him off. “I’m fine, besides, I have nothing that matches my outfit.” He smirked.

Reizo smiled. “Does it matter if you match or not?” He raised a brow. “You’re suffering willingly for fashion.”

Yasuo pretended to pout. “I want to look nice though.” He buckled his seatbelt as they sat. “And if I wear an ugly maroon sweater,” he shuddered. “I would be destroying my goal with my lack of taste.” He wrinkled his nose.

Reizo laughed and started the car. “Okay, okay, sorry for asking.” He grinned. “I won’t try to persuade you away from your “look” ever again.”

“Good.” Yasuo sniffed dramatically.

Reizo chuckled. “But really, it is cold.” He glanced quickly toward the floor. “Do me a favor and reach under the seat for me.”

Yasuo curiously allowed his fingertips to trail across the seat edge and came in contact with leather.

What is this? Does he have some type of leather fetish he wants me to know about?!

He reluctantly pulled his find into the slight light and blinked in surprise. “A jacket?” He turned curious eyes onto the driver.

“Well I figured it would get cold, plus it matches well enough with what you’re wearing, so don’t worry.” He reassured. “It’s my jacket but you can borrow it for the night.”

Yasuo slowly slid into the cool material, letting it pool around his shoulders as it was a size too big. He inhaled minutely, smiling gently at Reizo’s scent.

Mm, mint. His eyes closed in comfort. Why does he always smell like mint to me?

“So you like it?”

Yasuo jerked back to the present and away from his distracting thoughts. “Um, yeah, it’s great.” He flushed pink. “Thank you.”

“Anytime.” Reizo assured.

Yasuo leaned back into the seat and glanced out at the passing scenery. “So who’s coming to your gig?” He asked curiously, knowing he wouldn’t be the only one invited.

“Miki of course.” Reizo clicked on his blinker and turned. “I think she mentioned having a date with Mark.”

“Hm, he’s nice enough.” Yasuo shrugged.

Reizo chuckled. “I haven’t met the guy officially, I’ve only heard about him.”

“He comes off as strange to me.” Yasuo continued to mull over the foreigner.

“Hm, I’ll have to see about that, I don’t want my sister with a weirdo.” He smirked.

“Well I guess they’re going to be sucking face then, and I’ll be the third wheel to their little date.” Yasuo murmured dejectedly.

“You should call your friend, what was her name, Rei?” Reizo suggested, keeping his eyes on the road.

Yasuo nodded in agreement. “I suppose it couldn’t hurt.” He murmured, pulling out his cell.

Luckily enough the girl had graced him with her phone number during their torturous stay in detention. He pressed the speed dial and listened as the tone beeped patiently in wait for the opposite line.

There was a sudden click and a sleepy voice.

“Hello?”

“Hey Rei!” He laughed as she answered the phone.

“Yasuo?” The voice sounded confused.

“Yeah it’s me, hey I was wondering if you wanted to meet us over at Hoshi Akai, we’re going to see Reizo’s band perform.” He paused.

“Uh…sure.” She said somewhat groggily.

“Did I wake you up?” Yasuo frowned.

“No, no, I’m fine. I’ll meet you guys there or call for directions.”

“Okay” Yasuo smiled. “See you in a few.”

“Bye.”

The phone clicked and Yasuo smiled as he looked toward Reizo. “She said she would come.” He informed happily.

Reizo chuckled. “It doesn’t take much to make you happy does it?”

“I guess not.” Yasuo laughed along.

“Well hopefully we’ll be able to find Miki and her date in the crowd quickly.” Reizo commented. “This place is supposed to be hot.”

Yasuo bounced excitedly in his seat, keeping his eyes out the window in impatience. The empty streets slowly began to fill with parked cars as they drove farther. People moved about the dark, heading toward the lights like a moth to flame.

“We’re there?” Yasuo perked up.

The car slowed to a stop and surprisingly enough they found a safe place to park. “Yep.” Reizo smiled as he turned off the ignition.

“Let’s go!” Yasuo threw his door open and unbuckled himself.

“Patience, patience.” The older teen chanted.

“Come on Reizo! I can’t wait to hear you play!” Yasuo smiled.

The silver haired teen pulled Yasuo to his side and ruffled his hair. “Aw, you’re too sweet.” He cooed.

They began walking toward the entrance, the throng of people getting thicker with each step.

“Yasu!”

Gold orbs blinked up in surprise and then shock as a hand waved toward him.

Rei was waving frantically, trying to gain their attention. Her outfit alone could have done that. The short, skimpy skirt she wore reached mid-thigh and clung to her thin legs like skin. Her blouse was no better and also clung to the right places, especially near her chest in a shower of black silk which seemed to be the girl’s favorite color.

Wow, she cleans up pretty nice.

She pushed through the crowd, catching a few eyes as she brushed by. The two boys were glad when she reached their side and Yasuo blushed slightly at her attire.

“Hey Yasuo, Reizo.” Rei waved as they met up at the entrance.

“Rei.” Yasuo smiled in greeting, having to glance up slightly because of her heeled boots giving her more height then needed.

“Let’s get inside, it’s chilly out here.” Reizo ushered them forward, flashing his pass at the security and easily slipping them within the club.

Their ears were immediately assaulted by the roaring of the crowd, the mass of bodies were all centered on the dance floor, rocking and grinding to the music.

“Wow.” Yasuo whistled.

Reizo grinned and ruffled his feathered hair. “I take it this is your first time out! “He yelled over the noise.

Yasuo nodded mutely as his elbow was captured, he allowed Reizo to guide him toward the bar, Rei following close behind.

“Hey Shiro!” Reizo called toward the bartender, a young looking boy.

A dark head glance up from the delicate job of mixing beverages, he paused in his movements and then smiled in recognition.

“Surprise seeing you here Reizo, how’d you get into a place like this?” He indicated the popular club. “Got a fake ID?”

“No, I’m with the band.” He grinned. “I was wondering if you could hook these two up with a drink.”

Shiro glanced at the teens and nodded. “Yeah sure.” He reached down and quickly swirled something together.

The drinks were shoved into the awaiting hands and Shiro winked. “Stay safe! No drinking and driving.” He smiled.

“Of course!” Rei agreed, sipping at her glass and then wandering off into the crowd to disappear.

“Rei!” Yasuo called in protest.

He didn’t receive a response and sighed dejectedly he looked toward Reizo who had finished with his interaction with the youth behind the bar.

“I have to go on stage now.” Reizo motioned toward the bright lights. “Make sure you hold on to your glass.” He warned.

He made sure Yasuo had a firm grip on his drink and then moved off toward the stage where his friends were setting up.

Yasuo slowly sipped at the alcohol as he wandered closer toward his own group of friends; luckily he had spied them from his former position. Mark and Miki were tangled in an embrace while Rei seemed to be missing in action still. He frowned momentarily as he quickly glanced around.

A loud adjustment to the microphone sent a chill through the crowd and everyone complained loudly as the screech echoed through their ears. All eyes were turned toward the stage now and a thin man stood in the spotlight.

“Welcome to Hoshi Akai!” The man boomed into the microphone. “I hope you’re enjoying your night so far.” He smiled.

Cheers answered his words, the rude introduction forgotten, and he bowed on stage, waving to the audience.

“Tonight we have a new group of musicians, Tiger’s Eye!” He called. “Please enjoy their talented music!” He moved off the stage.

The teens smiled at the crowd, adjusting their instruments and mics. Reizo stepped forward toward the lead microphone and nodded mutely toward the drummer to start.

Without further ado the beat began and Reizo nodded his head in tune to the music striking up, swaying gently on stage.

As soon as his lips parted a beautiful voice rose amongst the instruments and caught the attention of the crowd.

-

You can’t see me; I’m hiding in the shadows.

Holding my breath as this wave of life roars around me.

But I see you, you are my light, I need you to survive this fight of life.

(Chorus) Please don’t go.

Don’t leave me alone again.

I need you.

(Chorus) Need you.

I breathe you, into my soul.

And now I find myself….

(Chorus) Running!

(Chorus) Breathing!

(Chorus) Falling!

Hold onto my heart and don’t let go, I’m drowning in these memories, it’s consuming my soul!

(Chorus) Hold on, hold on. To me, to me.

(Chorus) Don’t let go, let go, of my soul.

Falling, trying to hold on, to everything that means something to me.

But there you are, you can’t see me, I’m hiding.

(Chorus) Hiding.

Hiding from you, I’m dieing.

(Chorus) Dieing.

Because of you.

I need you, but you weren’t there for me.

And now I’m drowning! Falling into everything, take my hand and save me, don’t let go and leave me.

I’m crying!

(Chorus) Crying now.

I can’t remain in shadows I don’t know where to go.

(Chorus) Where to go. Where to go.

No where to go…

(Chorus) So find me.

Hold onto my hand.

(Chorus) Guide me.

Don’t leave me to stand.

‘Cus it’s surrounding me, drowning me, holding onto me and now I see…

(Chorus) Now I see.

That I’m dieing, without you by my side, I’m nothing.

(Chorus) Nothing.

I’m just gone.

-

The guitar note was held in a mournful wail and then slowly withered to silence.

The remaining music died off and everyone was silent in awe. Reizo nodded his head toward the crowd with a quick grin and jumped off stage before his band mates had the chance to stop him.

Immediately the crowd came to life with screams.

He managed - surprisingly - to brave the mass of bodies and return to his friends who were among those cheering for an encore.

“That was great Reizo!” Miki cried over the now booming music. “But you should have stayed up there!”

Reizo smiled charmingly, eyes bright with mirth. “It was nothing, we were just having fun.” He shrugged off her compliment. “And I don’t feel comfortable in front of too many people, so I just wanted to come back with you guys.”

Yasuo smiled and tugged on his sleeve, grabbing Reizo’s immediate attention. The tall youth turned in question and Yasuo smiled.

“It really was wonderful.”

Reizo gained a strange expression as his grin brightened. “Thanks.” He breathed.

The grey haired boy nodded and glanced away shyly, clutching at his glass. His eyes roamed the crowd for Rei but he didn’t see her. Another problem surfaced though and his cheeks tinted pink at the thought.

“Hey, I’ll be back!” He called over the roar and towards the others. “I need to use the restroom.”

Miki nodded. “Okay, don’t get lost!” She agreed as Yasuo handed her his drink to guard.

The small boy managed to squeeze through most of the crowd and he made it to the bathroom unscathed. Surprisingly it was empty save for himself.

He shrugged and quickly went to the task of relieving his bladder. He stood musing for a few seconds, coming back to himself slowly and zipped back up and moving away from the urinal.

He went to the sinks and glanced at his reflection in the mirror, he was relieved there was one in this bathroom, he hated it when there were no mirrors in the men’s bathrooms.

“Girl’s get everything. “He snorted.

Yasuo sighed as he set to washing his hands, the night wasn’t going too bad, he might even have a little fun by the time it was through. He turned to dry his hands, nodding to himself.

“Hey there.”

He blinked and turned toward the door, relaxing slightly as he saw Mark. “Oh, hi.” He smiled shortly.

The Irish youth moved toward the sinks and slowly began washing his hands. “You know Yasuo, you’re a really nice boy.” He commented.

Yasuo finished with his drying and cocked his head in slight confusion. “Um, thanks.” He chuckled at the strange comment.

Mark nodded. “Very nice, but you know, I can’t help but wonder why someone like you doesn’t have a girlfriend.”

Shit. Yasuo’s stomach immediately dropped. Why is he talking like that, does he know?

Hazel eyes lit upon his panicking form, moving forward slightly. “If I didn’t know any better,” he leaned closer to Yasuo’s ear, breath heavy. “I’d say you were gay.”

Gold eyes widened. “What?” He huffed. Oh shit he knows! Shit, shit, shit!

The dark head nodded as Mark allowed his nose to lightly nuzzle the side of Yasuo’s neck. Yasuo was tensed and frozen in surprise.

“I myself am bi, so it wasn’t too hard to tell.” He smirked and moved so he could lock eyes with the other. “Plus I find myself attracted to you.”

This sent a bucket of cold water down Yasuo’s spine, waking him from his shocked state. “No, Miki is your girlfriend.” He turned away, intent on leaving. “I’m not going to ruin your relationship.”

A hand shot out and firmly grasped onto Yasuo’s arm, the boy turned back and stared at Mark.

“So you don’t deny that you’re gay.” He smirked. “And if it bothers you so much I’ll just dump Miki.” He shrugged.

Yasuo’s eyes widened. “You can’t!” He gasped. “She really likes you!”

His eyes flashed. “Well I really like you.” Mark replied.

Yasuo felt his heart clench painfully for his friend. “Please don’t dump her.” He pleaded. “I don’t want her to be hurt.”

“Then kiss me.” Was the growl.

Yasuo had no time to move as foreign lips immediately pressed against his own, suffocating him. A muffled protest was soon smoothed over with a surprised yelp as Mark delved his tongue into Yasuo’s mouth, deftly exploring every inch of warmth.

It seemed that this wasn’t enough for the older boy and as they broke apart panting for air, he began to move his hands down Yasuo’s hips.

“No!” Yasuo tried to push away. “This is wrong, I don’t want this.” He clenched his eyes shut as he desperately attempted to push the stronger body away from him, leaning further into the wall for support.

“Don’t lie to me.” Mark growled, hands roughly pinning him still and pinching at his hips. “I know that you like this.”

Yasuo furiously shook his head. “N-no.” He choked. “I don’t want this, I never wanted this!” He panicked.

“Shut up before I -”

“Yasuo, are you alright in here?” A voice called out as the door swung opened.

Mark shot away from the smaller body and glared warningly as he turned to leave, disappearing around the corner.

“Oh hey Mark, is Yasuo still in there?” Reizo asked with a friendly tone.

“Yeah, last I saw him he was washing his hands.” He chuckled in return.

There was the sound of the door closing and Yasuo sagged in relief, sliding against the wall and falling to the cold floor. He tangled his fingers in his hair and sighed heavily, trying to hold back his tears.

“Yasuo?” Reizo questioned as he turned the corner. “Shit, what happened!?”

The boy looked up slowly from his slumped position, smiling slightly. “I’m fine.” He waved a dismissing hand.

Reizo frowned. “I don’t think so, come on, I’m taking you home.” He leaned over to aid Yasuo to his feet.

Yasuo allowed himself to be practically dragged out into the chaos once more; he winced at the loud music filtering throughout the room.

Reizo squinted into the shifting mass, searching for a familiar face. He sighed in relief as he made his way toward the bar.

“Rei!” He called over the loud bass.

The dark head turned in surprise, mouth open in question as she clung onto her glass.

“What happened to him?” She asked curiously. “He looks like shit.”

“Thanks.” Yasuo said dryly with a roll of his eyes.

Reizo copied his gesture with his own eyes. “Anyway, where did Miki run off to?” He glanced around once more.

Rei shrugged. “She and Mark left a while ago.” She pointed toward the door. “They went outside to do terrible things to each other.” She grinned.

Yasuo felt his throat constrict and he clamped a tight hand over his mouth before he could throw up.

Rei thought he was joking and laughed. “I know that’s what I said.”

“Well I’m going to try to catch them.” Reizo told the pair. “If I’m not back in a few minutes, start walking home.”

Rei nodded her consent, looping her arm around Yasuo’s “Don’t worry, we’ll keep each other company.” She reassured.

Reizo nodded. “Okay, see you two.”

Yasuo watched dejectedly as his crush pushed through the crowd and back toward the front door.

“So what do you want to do now?”

He turned toward Rei, eyes tired. “I don’t care.” He replied with a shrug.

“Hm, I think we should get you home, are you sure you feel alright?” She worried her lower lip with a frown.

Yasuo smiled. “I’m fine, I think I just need some air, it’s too crowded in here.” He waved around the packed bodies.

“Okay, I’ll get us out.” Rei bounced.

She grabbed Yasuo’s hand and surprisingly he didn’t pull back. Quickly she pushed through the crowd, pulling him along.

“Out of the way, the kid’s gonna blow chunks!”

Yasuo blushed furiously at her screams, but he had to hand it to her, it was working. Finally they made it to the front doors without being smashed by the crowd.

“Ta da.” She spread her hands toward the night.

“Thanks.” Yasuo nodded.

He sighed as he tugged at the sleeve of his jacket. He smiled slightly, Reizo’s jacket. Speaking of which, where had he gone? Yasuo glanced around, seeing various couples darting about the street or entering the club.

Did he go home already?

Yasuo frowned but inwardly shrugged, at least he had warned them.

He turned toward Rei who was staring into the distant shadows. He briefly glanced up but saw nothing.

“Hey Rei, I think I’m going to start heading home.” He dodged a look toward the club. “I don’t think Reizo is coming back.”

“Will you be fine here?” He questioned, really wanting to get home himself.

Rei waved him off. “I’ll be fine.” She assured.

Yasuo took this as his okay and nodded. “I’ll see you then.” He turned and began walking down the sidewalk with his head slightly hanging.

“Hey Yasuo!”

Rei trotted forward and held onto his arm, pulling him to a stop. The youth turned with a confused frown at his lips.

“Rei?”

She cocked her head and smiled. “I just wanted to thank you for inviting me along with you guys.”

Yasuo smiled. “Well of course, you’re Miki’s friend so I didn’t think she would mind.”

“Well thanks anyway, I had a great time.” She said as she leaned closer to his body.

Yasuo didn’t pull away, knowing it was cold outside and the girl wasn’t exactly dressed for the cool night.

“Uh, do you want me to walk you home?” He offered. “It seems that Miki and Reizo left me.” He smiled ruefully.

Her violet gaze brightened. “Thanks, I wouldn’t want to be kidnapped on the way to my place.” She chuckled. “I’m sure someone like you could protect me.”

Yasuo smile wanly, remembering what had transpired earlier that night. “Yeah, someone like me.” He repeated softly.

Rei frowned and leaned closer to his face, concern written on her features. “Are you okay Yasu, did I say something wrong?”

“No, I’m-”

“What do you think you’re doing?” A stern voice rang out.

Both heads shot up in surprise. A smile broke out across Rei’s face.

“Kano!” She chirped happily.

“Kano?” Yasuo repeated with a frown.

He stared at his teammate, wondering why the boy was here. Then he blinked in surprise and turned toward Rei, who obviously knew him.

“You know each other?” He inquired curiously.

She smiled. “Of course I know him, you’re so funny sometimes Yasuo.” She laughed.

Before he could make sense of her words she had run up to the other boy and threw her arms around his neck, deftly kissing him on the lips.

Yasuo’s jaw fell open as did his eyes widened. Oh my God.

He shook his head and found himself under an intense glare.

Kano scowled. “Trying to steal my girlfriend Kawashima?”

Yasuo stared in surprise. “Steal your-” His eyes widened. “Rei, you didn’t tell me he was your boyfriend!”

Though the lip locking should have been clue enough. He flushed.

She grinned. “Did I forget to mention that?” There was a shrug. “Oh well, no harm done I suppose.”

Yasuo scowled. “Yeah, not yet.” He muttered.

Dark eyes narrowed. “You say something?” Kano spat. “You wanna be a man and say it to my face?”

Yasuo smirked. “I don’t know why you don’t like me Kano, but I’m not like you okay? So just lay off. Rei and I are just friends.” He turned away, intent on leaving.

“I’ll see you later then Yasuo.” Rei waved as she moved toward her boyfriend.

The boy held up a hand in farewell as he continued walking, dejectedly stuffing his fists in his deep pockets, their little encounter had just killed what was left of his mood.

“Well that went better then planned.” Rei commented thoughtfully.

Kano nodded mutely, wrapping a possessive arm around the girl’s waist as he watched Yasuo disappear into the shadows.

“We’ll continue with the plan.”

“That was so much fun!” Miki exclaimed. “Wasn’t Mark just to die for?”

Yasuo had caught up with Miki and they had walked to her house together, Reizo on the other hand had driven home in search for them but they had all met up in the living room, now Yasuo slowly removed his jacket and let it fall to the floor. “Yeah, he was great.” He chuckled nervously.

His tone wasn’t lost on his best friend and Miki frowned. “You don’t like him?”

Reizo’s head lifted from its slumped position to look on curiously.

Yasuo shifted uncomfortably under twin gazes. “It’s not that I don’t like him, I just don’t feel comfortable around him.” He finished lamely.

Miki crossed her arms over her chest. “Don’t be childish Yasu, he’s a nice guy.” A frown tugged at her lips.

Grey locks shifted as Yasuo nodded. “I know and I’m happy for you.” His smile was strained. “I guess I’ll see you guys later, it’s late and I need to get home.” He excused himself.

He bent over and retrieved his jacket, jerkily turning toward the front door and walking out without further words. When the crisp night breeze hit his flushed cheeks he had to struggle not to let his tears fall.

“She’s going to hate me.” He sniffed, angrily rubbing at his betraying eyes as he walked.

“Why?”

Yasuo jerked around and frowned at Reizo. “Why did you follow me?” He demanded as he stopped.

The broad shoulders shrugged. “I felt that I needed to.” He replied. “Now tell me why my sister could possibly hate you.”

Yasuo turned away with a dry chuckle. “Her supposed boyfriend cheated on her.” He replied grimly.

“How do you know?” Reizo asked gently, coming to stand beside the smaller boy.

“H-he kissed me.” He responded shakily. “And then the bastard tried to take it farther and molest me but thankfully you came.”

Blue eyes were narrowed dangerously as Yasuo turned and he felt crestfallen. “You hate me now too.” He sighed softly.

He turned to walk away once more but was surprised to feel a halting hand on his upper arm. He glanced up apprehensively.

“I don’t hate you.” Reizo reassured. “But I do want to kill that bastard now.”

Yasuo’s eyes widened. “No! You can’t, Miki likes him and she really needs someone.” He rubbed his brow slightly. “I can protect myself and I don’t think he’ll try anything again so I’m not too worried.”

Reizo gripped his arm slightly. “Are you sure Yasu?” He used his pet name for comfort.

A gentle smile was he response as Yasuo nodded. “Yeah, I’ll be fine.”

There was a reluctant sigh. “Okay, I’ll back out for now.” He held up a warning finger. “But if he so much as touches you again, I swear I will kick his ass, whether my sister likes him or not.”

Yasuo chuckled. “Alright then.”

Reizo nodded with a chuckle. “Now get your butt home before it gets too cold.” He smiled.

“I’ll see you tomorrow.” Yasuo began to walk away. “Great show by the way!” He called over his shoulder with an impish grin as he ran off.

Reizo smiled softly. “Thanks.” He murmured, watching until he couldn’t see his friend anymore.

He turned and walked back inside, ignoring Miki’s questions and opting for his room to sleep the rest of the night.

He threw himself onto his firm mattress as darkness settled around him and sighed, staring up at the ceiling silently. “I hope he stays safe.” He whispered to himself as he rolled over for sleep.

Hoshi Akai – It’s equivalent to Red Star, not too sure if I put it in the right order though :shrugs: just guessing.

Author: Well, so ends another chap. I hope u peoples enjoyed it, I’m just glad I got it out before another freaking year passed. The song is mine, go ahead and give it your own beat and sing it aloud to yourself. :chuckles: Please review, and tell me if the link to the pics worked, tootles!

-Red