Touma returned later that night to find Seiji asleep though it didn‘t appear to be all that peaceful. “At least one of us can sleep.” How he wanted to just wake the swordsman up and confess his true feelings for him, but he resisted the temptation. “Who am I kidding? I must be nuts! Seiji would never go for such forwardness. Damn him and his traditions!”

He had spent the past few hours up with the stars, crying and feeling sorry for himself. His heart felt as though it had been shattered into a million tiny pieces. “God how it hurts. Maybe this is why my parents never showed those things, they were sparing me from the pain.”

While floating around he had remembered that he had rushed off so fast that he had left his journal out on the balcony and so he reluctantly returned. He gave Seiji one last look before racing out to the balcony to retrieve it. He let out a sigh of relief when he found it just where he had left it. Thank god! If Seiji would have read this I don’t know what I would have done. Clutching it securely Touma turned to go back in when he had caught sight of a shooting star.

Another one has died, just like my heart. I’d make a wish on you, but I’m finding out very quickly that my wishes never come true. No one cares. Seiji cares for someone else; I’ve lost and that’s that!

Quietly stripping down and then slipping into pajamas, Touma crawled into his bed; sad, lonely and heart broken. Lying there he looked at the glow in the dark stars that adorned the ceiling right above his bed. They were all he had now, his stars, the night sky which accepted him with open arms.

They were the only things that knew his heart and how he longed for the warmth of someone’s touch or to hear someone tell him that he was loved. Touma rolled over and buried his face into his pillow, crying softly until he fell asleep.

Seiji awoke to the sounds of muffled cries, looking over at the bed across the room he saw that Touma had returned and it was he who was crying. Why are you so sad my friend? Is it because of me? I am truly sorry Touma, I never meant to hurt you. Seiji wanted to go over and comfort his friend but thought it would only cause the archer to bolt once again and so he laid there and listened until Touma’s tears subsided and sleep overtook them both.

*************************************************************************

Over the next few days Touma kept to himself, more then what was normal for the blue-haired archer. He was not really in the mood for anyone’s company, especially Seiji‘s. The others had all noticed his self-imposed isolation and tried to bring him out of it but their attempts failed.

Touma knew what they were doing, everyone, with the exception of Seiji that is, were constantly asking him if he was okay, which was driving him insane. Finally he had to make something up just to keep them off his back, especially Shin who always worried about the guys and had been dubbed ‘Mother Hen’ by his friends.

// Touma cared about Shin like a brother, but his mother hen ways were working on his nerves. Shin was the only one with the exception of Lorelei, Shin’s girlfriend and Touma’s official practical jokes partner, who knew how he felt about Seiji. Not that he had told them or anything.

Lorelei simply told him that she recognized the looks he gave Seiji when ever the two were in the same room, they were the same looks she gave to Shin. Sure he denied it at first, too embarrassed at being caught, but he couldn’t lie to Lorelei no matter how hard he tried. One day he finally confessed everything to her and when she didn’t turn away in disgust he knew he had truly found a friend he could talk to about his feelings.

Shin of course had this uncanny knack for figuring things out and it wasn’t too long before he knew all that Lorelei knew. Touma had made them promise to never say anything to anyone about it; too much was at stake if it got out. Though they both advised him to confess to Seiji, they did understand and agreed to remain silent.

Touma envied the relationship Shin and Lorelei had, they were so open with each other. The biggest thing with them was their carefree attitudes and how they never hid their feelings for each other. Many times they were caught holding hands, cuddling or kissing and on more then one occasion Touma bore witness to their verbal expressions of love. //

Lying on his bed, unable to sleep though it was quite early, Touma picked up his journal and began to write. It was his only way of expressing himself without fear of judgment. Actually it was easier for him to express on paper then it was face to face with anyone.

~ October 9,

Touma put the journal back in it’s hiding spot then walked out to the balcony. There was a chill in the air but it didn’t bother him in the slightest, in fact he welcomed it. He hadn’t seen Seiji all morning and he wondered where the swordsman had taken off to. Probably out in the forest somewhere meditating. Touma thought.

He lifted his face to the wind enjoying its gentle touch, wishing like hell that it were the touch of the one he craved for. He was tempted to try and touch Seiji’s mind through their link, but thought better of it. “If he’s meditating he won’t answer, plus I get the feeling he wants to be alone right now anyway.”

// When he returned to the mansion last night he could have sworn he had seen tears on Seiji’s cheeks as he slept. He had considered waking him up to see what was wrong, but the fatigue and sadness in his own heart were just too much for him.

Never would he know how it felt to have Seiji look at him the way he looked at the swordsman... With eyes filled with love. Never would he know Seiji’s gentle touch or the feel of his body next to his. He was in what appeared to be a hopeless situation. Hopelessly in love with a hopelessly unattainable person. //

Touma lay back on the lounge chair, warm sunlight covered him as he drifted lazily off to sleep.

*************************************************************************

Stretching out on the sofa, Touma gave up on the book he had been trying to read. He just didn’t feel like reading right now. Earlier he had fallen asleep on the balcony but the chill woke him up after a measly twenty minutes and so he decided to crawl into bed under warm blankets.

No sooner had he gotten warm and comfortable then Seiji had returned and had asked him if he could move over to one of the spare bedrooms just until the weekend. Seems Seiji had a major exam to study for and he needed to be free from all distractions. That had hurt him, most of all.

Never before had Seiji made a request like that, he never had a problem with Touma being there while he studied. What was so different about this time? Now Seiji was going as far as asking everyone to leave him alone so he could study with no interruptions..

Now I’m a nothing more then a distraction to him. I guess that’s what I am to a lot of people, an inconvenience. Touma agreed to move to the spare bedroom and now Nasuti was up there clearing some things out for him.

Seiji had helped him move a few things out of the room, which were temporarily sitting in the hallway until Nasuti was done and he could put them away. Seiji had already locked himself into their bedroom. That is so ironic though, Seiji locks himself away, just as he locks away his emotions.

Grabbing his journal he opened it to a blank page. He wasn’t sure if writing his feelings down actually helped, but it was a habit he had gotten into a long time ago and now it was a routine he found comforting to his soul. “I guess this is how Seiji must feel when he meditates. Maybe I’m starting to understand him better then I realize.”

~ Seiji,

Touma could feel the tears forming behind his eyes but held them in check. He had to keep control over his emotions until he could get into his temporary room and then he would be free to let it all out.

Touma covered his eyes with his hands trying his best to keep what was inside of him there, the way it should be. That was another one of his habits, never crying in front of his friends. The other troopers were his first real friends and he wasn’t about to risk losing that by appearing weak.

*************************************************************************

Seiji came down to grab a bite to eat, after having been locked up in his and Touma’s room for several hours now, getting things planned out for tomorrow night. Walking past the living room, he caught sight of Touma and the sad expression his lovely face held.

He had a strong feeling that he was the cause of that sadness and wanted nothing more then to take that hurt away right then and there, but it would have to wait one more day. Seiji was determined to make this something special, something Touma would never forget.

“Tomorrow night Touma. Tomorrow night if you allow me, I will bring that smile back to your face, and chase away the pain. Tomorrow night I will show you just what you mean to me. Tomorrow night we will be taken to the heavens and the bliss we find there will fill our very souls. I promise you Touma, I promise. I just hope that you will give me that chance.” Seiji whispered softly.

How he wanted to just rush in there, confess everything, tell him he was sorry, sweep the archer into his arms and hold him. How he wanted to just kiss away that frown and caress away his sadness. How he just wanted to let Touma see the love that he had in his heart for him, to drop the mask and be free for a chance.

Seiji knew Touma well enough to know when the archer was trying to hold back from crying. He had seen it many times when Touma thought no one was watching. Many times Seiji found himself wanting to hold Touma till his sadness went away and many times he passed on the idea for fear of what others would think. Sure the other guys hugged and they comforted each other, but not in such an intimate way as he wanted, it just wasn’t done.

Seiji could feel his self-control slipping and knew he had to get away from the scene fast or risk crossing over that fine line, which was fading fast. Quickly he turned and headed up the stairs, taking them two at a time, forgetting all about his hunger. His heart was beating faster and the onset of tears began to blue his vision.

Making it to the safety of the room, Seiji closed and locked the door. Leaning against it, he slid down, drew his knees to his chest, buried his face in his arms and cried. Once again emotions that he had worked so hard at controlling were spilling out, confusing the blond swordsman even more.

What would the other think if they saw him in this state? He wasn’t the cold hearted bastard everyone thought him to be, he just didn’t wear his heart on his sleeve that’s all. So why was this different? Why did this whole thing with Touma having him breaking every rule he had set forth?

*************************************************************************

Eventually, Touma was finally allowed to move his things into the spare room, once he was settled in, he shut and locked the door. He needed to be alone for awhile, his emotions were on overload at the moment and he didn’t need everyone questioning him as to why he was acting so sad. Sitting in the bed, he grabbed his journal and began to write.

Touma closed his notebook and fell back onto the bed. Rolling onto his stomach he groaned and punched the pillow with his fists.

*************************************************************************

That night two people were missing from the supper table. Seiji had decided to have his meal in his room, “So I can study,” as he put it. Actually Seiji was desperately trying to get his plans in order for tomorrow night, for his special surprise to Touma. He had even snuck out of the house without anyone noticing to pick up his gifts for Touma.

Touma had simply said he wasn’t hungry, much to their surprise. Everyone just assumed that Touma was sad because his parents were going to miss yet another one of his birthdays, especially since this one was a milestone.

It wasn’t too much longer before the house was quiet and dark except for the light in Seiji’s room. He had just come back from a secret trek into the woods where he had been out scouring for the perfect location to lead his “Hopefully” future lover to.

Lying in his bed Seiji just hoped that Touma would be willing to give him a chance. This wasn’t easy for him, he was taking a huge risk by laying his feelings on the line like this, but Touma was worth it plus it felt right and that was what truly mattered. He glanced at the empty bed and sighed.

*************************************************************************

The next morning Seiji awoke not to sunshine and the sounds of birds singing, but to skies filled with gray clouds as rain pelted the windows and the sound of thunder vibrating everything around it.

Okay Seiji, think! You baka you should have had an alternate plan just in case. I may as well go talk to Shin first, eat, and then grab a shower before I start racking my brain.” He thought as he threw on a robe and headed out of the room. Less then an hour later he was back in his room still unsure as to what he would do. “Okay, maybe a nice hot shower will help... Can’t hurt I guess.”

Seiji finished his shower still trying to come up with an alternate plan. According to Shin the storms were riding some jet stream and it looked as though this was their weather pattern for the next 48 hours or so.

Pulling off the towel that was wrapped around his waist, he hung it over the back of a chair and lying down on his bed he tried to think about how he could switch his plans to fit the indoor venue.

He laid there completely nude as his mind worked, he hadn’t realized his hand was slowly caressing his chest and awaking a desire within himself. The hand worked it’s way lower still to rubbed a taunt abdomen and Seiji softly moaned as he thought about everything.

Seiji turned his thoughts back to Touma after all he was a lot more pleasing to think about. He began thinking about how it would be to kiss his sweet lips, to run his hands over his lean but muscular body, to taste him and to bring him pleasure. He thought about the soft moans that Touma would make and the reactions he could elicit as he made love to him.

The whole thing began to turn him on, not to mention the fact that his hands were still caressing his own body. Looking down he realized just how turned on he was getting. “Oh what the hell, it can’t hurt, unless of course you believe that old myth about going blind.” He laughed softly then snaked his hand down over his abdomen until he reached his goal.

Griping his erection he slid his hand slowly up and down it’s length, closing his eyes he found himself recalling the day he watched as Touma pleasured himself. “God he looked so heavenly.” His thumb smeared the drops of pre-cum over the head giving his hand something smooth to ride on.

He began to quicken the tempo, enjoying the slow burn that was making its way from the pit of his stomach to his groin. “Could Touma have been thinking of me that morning? Was I the cause for that delicious sight? I can‘t believe that I could have that kind of effect on anyone.”

Seiji felt his excitement building as he continued stroking his sex. The image of Touma in his mind doing the very same thing was helping to accelerate him towards a much-needed release. Seiji began thrusting his hips upward to meet the strokes; his breathing was coming in shallow pants. “Need to end the ache, need to feel it now.”

Moving his hand up to the head, he continued with lightening quick strokes as more pre-cum made his hand slicker, while the other rubbed a nipple into a hardened nub. “Yes, that’s it. Not much longer. Oh god yes. Touma!” Seiji thrust his hips one last time as his seed shot out to run hotly down over his fingers while more shot onto his chest, face and even got his hair.

He wasn’t prepared for that at all and was amazed at the forcefulness of his release. His vision had blurred over and he could feel his body throbbing from his orgasm, pulsating in time with his heartbeat while his skin seemed to tingle all over.

Seiji lay there, exhausted for several long minutes, allowing that tingle to reach every nerve ending. “Wow I don‘t think I have ever come that hard before. If mere thoughts of Touma can do that to me... How would I react to actually making love to him?” Looking down at the mess he laughed softly as he reached out to grab the box of tissues in order to wiped up as much as he could before deciding another shower was his only hope. “Jeez I hope no one takes notice that my shower is running again.”

Just then an idea hit him and his smile widened.

Laughing to himself, Seiji jumped off the bed and after a quick second shower, he dressed and headed to the attic. There were some items he was going to need if he was going to pull his plan off. He just hoped he could finish it all in time.

*************************************************************************

Touma sat at the counter in the kitchen eating his breakfast, or at least trying to eat it. He hadn’t slept very well last night and now was feeling less then cheerful. The spare bedroom he was staying in was next to Nasuti’s and from the sounds he heard, She and Ryo were trying to break a record for all-nighters.

It was only seven in the morning, much too early for any sane person to rise, as far as he was concerned. “Wait until I see those two... talk about being red-faced... Let’s see how red they can get!” He spoke out loud to his Rice Krispies as they snap, crackled and popped back at him. “Oh shut-up, what do you know?” Touma sighed and looked down into his bowl. “You’d think Ryo and Nasuti were trying to see if that mattress guarantee would hold to it’s word. Jeez, that bed sees more action then we saw while fighting the dynasty!”

Touma yawned again, he was tired and feeling a little grumpy at the moment. Touma did make a promise to Shin that he would get a little sleep before tonight’s party, and right now he thought he could fall asleep in his bowl of cereal.

Shin had wanted to make him a large breakfast, but Touma just didn’t have the appetite for it. Of course that brought out ‘Mother Hen’ Shin who immediately starting checking to see if he was getting sick.

Touma pushed his bowl of cereal away, his appetite was not only gone, it was nowhere to be found, truly missing in action. Getting up from the counter Touma cleaned up his dishes and put them in the dishwasher. “Guess I’ll get that nap in before pyro boy and his fire starter decide to ignite again. I’ll come down and make something to eat later.”

Contrary to what everyone thought Touma could indeed fend for himself in the kitchen. Oh sure he was no Iron Chef like Shin, and Seiji may have been slightly better then he, but he held his own.

“You don’t spend all that time alone and not know the basics of cooking, at least not with the way I normally eat.” His chuckle gave way to a yawn and so he slowly made his way up the stairs, giving Nasuti and Ryo, whom he met on the stairs, a small sampling of what he had heard. Needless to say both turned redder then the Rekka Yoroi. “Ha, serves them right!” He laughed to himself as he made his way to his room.

Flopping down on his bed he thought more about his feelings for Seiji, still trying to analyze everything that was going on inside him.

With that the archer closed his midnight blue eyes and drifted peacefully off to sleep.

*************************************************************************

Seiji worked feverishly to get everything ready for his surprise to Touma; making sure that everything was perfect. Satisfied, he tested everything, then smiled.

Seiji walked over to his closet to stare at the garment that hung on the door. Smiling he reached out to touch the silky material. “Tonight my Touma you will see that someone does care. Tonight I will show you just how much you mean to me. Tonight we will hopefully know all that our hearts desire. Tonight will hopefully start a new chapter in our lives.”

Seiji walked out of the bedroom being careful to lock the door. He couldn’t risk Touma seeing it yet, or anyone else for that matter. He needed to talk to Shin before grabbing a shower and getting ready for the party.

*************************************************************************

A loud pounding at the door jolted Touma from his sleep. It was Shu telling him to get his ass up and get ready to party, which Touma found to be quite rude. Still half asleep, Touma lumbered into the shower allowing the water to rinse away the sleepy haze from his mind and body.

Once cleaned and toweled off Touma slipped into a pair of black jeans, the tightest ones he had. He of course, opted for no underwear. “That takes care of the panty line problem!” He laughed at that thought.

Finally deciding on his favorite blue silk shirt, he left the top few buttons undone, tucking the shirt in he grabbed a gold chain necklace Shin had given him for Christmas and the matching bracelet that Lorelei had given him and put them on. He combed his hair and threw on a little Aspen cologne then looked at himself in the mirror.

Touma found himself in a series of giggles he could not stop as the whole thing played out in his mind. He laughed all the way down to the living room where his friends had gathered. He took one look at them standing there and staring at him and the fits of laughter only got worse till he was clutching his sides.

*************************************************************************

When Touma walked into the living room, laughing like a madman, Seiji was mystified at his friend’s behavior. For a moment Seiji thought he might be drunk. Concentrating on the archer he sent him a mental message. *Are you drunk Touma?* To which came a hasty reply of *NO! Not yet but that‘ll change... I hope!* Touma sent back just a little harshly.

Seiji winced slightly at Touma’s reply. Ouch, I deserve that I guess. It was only after that did Seiji allow himself to relax and finally notice how handsome Touma looked.

Damn you Touma you just had to wear those jeans, didn’t you? And no underwear either, you little hentai! Seiji observed how Touma’s shirt clung to his frame and the tight jeans left nothing to the imagination.

Seiji found it to be quite sexy. Dang if I get through this all without getting a hard on I’ll consider myself lucky. Just don’t bend over in front of me, I’ll lose it for sure. Surprised at his thoughts, Seiji chuckled to himself. Only you could make me think these things, Touma, only you.

Seiji sat back and watched Touma as he greeted some of their friends, and when Shin emerged from the kitchen with Lorelei by his side Seiji couldn’t help but smile over the look it got from Touma.

It had not been an easy thing for him to do but he had talked to Lorelei a few days ago and confessed everything to her then convinced her to fly back here early to surprise Touma. When he told her how sad the archer had been, Lorelei was more the happy to return, plus she admitted to him that she was missing Shin a little too much.

Now he watched as Touma grabbed her and gave her a big squeeze. The look on his face was one Seiji would never forget. Lorelei had agreed, along with Shin to keep Touma downstairs after the party for a set period of time to give Seiji the time he needed in order to get the rest of his surprise ready.

Surprise number one, accomplished. He thought proudly. If anyone can get Touma out of his funk, it’ll be Lorelei. It’s also good to see Shin so happy. I can only imagine how much he must have missed her. What the heck I’ve missed not having Touma sharing our room. It’s been so lonely at night.

*************************************************************************

Touma managed to get control of his giggle fits and began to greet the people who had shown up. When Shin walked into the room with Lorelei Touma’s eyes lit up and he grabbed her for a bear hug.

Looking over Lorelei’s shoulder, Touma caught a glimpse of Seiji sitting there and watching it all with a smile that took the archer‘s breath away.

Touma felt his cheeks heat up when Seiji flashed him one of his famous smiles. Seiji’s smiles were different when they were directed at him; Shin had pointed that out. They were deeper, lighting up his whole face, coming from the heart smiles. That was one of the things that Touma found so endearing about him.

Touma realized that regardless of what the future held, he would always love Seiji, even if that love could never be returned.

*************************************************************************

The party ran smoothly and soon the time came for Touma to take the ‘Guest of Honor Seat’ as Shin called it, to open his gifts. The guys had taken an old wooden chair and painted it gold, and then Nasuti had recovered the seat and back with dark blue velvet material. Jun and Shin got some fake looking jewels and glued them on to the chair to make it look like a throne.

Touma couldn’t help but laugh when they set the thing in front of him. Once seated, Lorelei walked up to him, straddled his legs and sat down in his lap. Touma’s cheeks turned a bright red when she whispered in his ear that he was naughty for not wearing underwear.

She then placed a plastic crown on his head and dubbed him ‘King Touma’, before getting up she winked at Shin who nodded to her and then without warning, kissed Touma fully on the lips. The room filled with wolf whistles and raunchy comments as Touma sat there eyes wide open in shock.

Breaking the kiss Lorelei winked at him then Wished him a Happy Birthday. She laughed at the look on his face, which was priceless and then returned to the comfort of Shin’s arms.

Touma sat there in a stupor and smiled, he had actually found the whole thing slightly arousing. No Touma that’s Shin’s girl, don’t even go there. God I must be lonely if those thoughts are now entering my head! Finally, one by one gifts were handed to him as he carefully unwrapped them, telling the others who it was from and what it was.

Of course turning twenty-one meant getting a few adult gag gifts. Some of the gifts included; two x-rated movies, a tin containing condoms in every color and texture, a blow up doll that vibrated and had real sucking action, and lastly a ‘How To’ manual.

Touma blushed with each gift opening and when he came to a pair of midnight blue thongs his face really took on a deep shade of red, especially when Nasuti and Lorelei began chanting that they wanted to see them modeled by him. “Sorry girls... I don’t think so!” was his reply and the two looked at him dejectedly.

All the while Seiji remained seated in his chair watching the events unfold and not saying or doing anything, though he did react to the thong. Maybe you’ll model it for me someday? He thought.

The mere image of Touma standing before him wearing nothing but that thong began to turn him on, but it was the image of him removing it from Touma’s body with his teeth, that got him aroused. It took him several agonizing minutes to get his thoughts under control again.

Soon Touma was down to the gifts from the guys. After downing the beer Shu had given him he began opening the gifts slowly so he wouldn’t tear the paper. That always got the guys picking on him but he didn’t care.

>From Ryo he got a new leather quiver for his arrows which had the name Touma going down the side as well as an image of an archer ready to shoot his arrow.

>From Shu he got two new video games, a CD and some brain buster puzzles (which Shin helped him pick out of course).

>From Nasuti he got a beautifully framed print of the nighttime sky as it appeared on the day he was born.

>From Jun he got a sketch the boy had done of Touma laying in the grass and staring up into the sky, the faces of his four friends plus Nasuti and Jun and even Lorelei were in the sky looking down at him.

>From Shin and Lorelei he got a wooden chest with fine detailed carvings of the solar system on it, while the inside was lined with bark blue velour. The gold nameplate said ‘Touma’s Memory Chest’. He could use it for his journals and such since it could be locked.

Touma sat there for a moment trying to compose himself as tears glazed his eyes over. They do care. I’ve never really been alone after all. I just wish I could have the one thing I desire most, the one person who holds my heart captive. He thought as he gave a quick glance in Seiji’s direction.

*************************************************************************

Seiji felt the emotions pouring forth from Touma through their link. Touma wasn’t good at controlling that when he was emotional and Seiji allowed the feelings to wash over him. To his surprise Seiji even found himself wiping away tears from his own eyes all the while hoping that no one had noticed.

Getting up, Seiji walked gracefully over to a table and picked up the gifts that he had gotten for Touma, he placed them in Touma’s hands, allowing his hands to cover the archer‘s. Seiji leaned in a bit and whispered “Happy Birthday Touma” in a voice that made Touma’s skin tingle.

For a moment Seiji held his position, long enough to take in the scent of Touma’s cologne. “You smell great.” He said it so only Touma could hear it.

Seiji then backed away and took his seat once again, smiling triumphantly when he noticed the flushed look on his friend’s face. Seiji knew he was flirting with Touma, and each time he got a reaction he became more confident about what he was going to do that evening.

*************************************************************************

Touma sat there stunned, not sure just what to make of the whole situation. Was he flirting with me? Gods I hope so! Seiji had gotten so close that for a brief moment he thought Seiji was going to kiss him. His warm breath whooshed in his ear and made him tingle all over, especially between his legs. If this is nothing more then my overactive imagination, plus the few beers I’ve had, who cares! It still was nice.

When Touma looked up and his eyes met Seiji’s he saw a spark in them that he had never seen before. Luckily he was holding Seiji’s gifts in his hands because he was so tempted to just grab the swordsman and kiss him. What a mistake that would have been Einstein! What is going on with him anyway? Maybe I should ask him if he’s drunk?

Touma kept his eyes on Seiji as the swordsman slowly walked back to his seat. God he looks so damn sexy tonight. Does he know how well those black slacks hug his ass? Oh my god! Is he wearing...? Oh it can’t be! He’s wearing a thong! No way! That’s so unlike Seiji.

Touma snapped from his phase out when Shu shouted to him to go on and finish opening his gifts. Shu was dying to dive into the cake Shin had made for tonight. All Touma really wanted to do was to dive into Seiji. Hehe, guess those few beers have gone to my head. He thought.

With shaky hands Touma slowly opened the top gift which turned out to be a clock driver which Touma could put on his telescope that would allow him to program it to follow any star or object he wanted as it crossed the sky.

It was great for long term observations and for astrophotography and it was something Touma had been wanting to get for some time now. The next gift was a book filled with star charts done throughout history. He had seen the book at the bookstore many times but never got it since it was a little pricey.

Then he opened the last gift and found a new journal that had a night sky pattern embellished on the front. There was a small note attached to it that Touma read to himself.

Touma stared at the note feeling the tears welling in his eyes. When he looked over at Seiji he saw a smile play across his lips that he found to be utterly breathtaking. Touma thanked him and tucked the note into his shirt pocket. He could feel the heat rising in his cheeks. God I need another beer. He thought.

*************************************************************************

The party moved on into the dinning room where Shin presented him with a cake. There were all sorts of celestial bodies on it and in one corner his kanji symbol of ‘Wisdom’. They all sang to him as Touma stood there blushing.

He could sense Seiji right behind him and even heard him sing. That really had shocked Touma, it was something he had never heard Seiji do, and what a voice the warrior of Courtesy had. Seiji really had a wonderful singing voice, and Touma secretly wished he could hear Seiji sing some more. He’s just full of surprises tonight!

Touma was prompted to make a wish, which he did reluctantly, then blew out the candles. Of course, Shu was in charge of getting the candles and not only were they trick ones, but they were shaped like boobs! Shu if you only knew how much I’d rather blow on something else. Touma laughed to himself at that.

“I hope your wish comes true.” Touma swung around to find himself looking into violet eyes that were sparkling more then ever. “If you want them badly enough, they can, you know... Come true I mean.” Seiji smiled then winked before walking over to speak to a few people he knew.

Touma stood there unable to move or even think. What’s going on with him? And he had the nerve to ask if I WAS DRUNK! He doesn’t know does he? I can’t ever remember Seiji being this uhm... this... playful! Now I definitely need another beer, shoot I need the whole frigging keg!

Shin carried the cake back into the kitchen and began serving it with Lorelei’s help.

Touma so wanted to talk to Seiji, to thank him for the gifts and try and see just what was going on with him. He was acting very strange tonight and that unnerved Touma. If I didn’t know any better, I’d swear he was flirting with me... Okay Touma, get a hold of yourself!

Every time he made a move towards his roommate, someone else pulled him into another direction and Seiji would disappear from view.

*************************************************************************

With the gifts and cake out of the way Seiji noticed the party was beginning to wind down, it was soon time for him to make his exit and set up phase two of his plan. He didn’t think he would ever forget the look on Touma’s face when he opened the journal and read the note.

Nor could he forget the almost shocked look when he had gotten as close as he had dared, to wish his friend a happy birthday. Seiji was actually enjoying his playful flirtation with Touma, something that he never really did with any of the girls he went out with.

Seiji saw that Touma was engrossed in a conversation with two other people so he used that moment to slip quietly upstairs. He nodded to Shin whom he passed in the hallway, and Shin smiled. He knew Seiji was planning his own special surprise for Touma but he wasn’t told just what, though he was curious as hell.

Shin met Lorelei on the steps as he was going down and she was going up and he couldn’t resist grabbing her for a much-needed kiss. He was overjoyed that she was here and he knew he was falling in love with her.

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Before he knew it, Touma was saying good night to the last of the guests. Flopping down onto the sofa he picked up each gift to examine them once again. Reaching down, Touma picked up the journal Seiji had given him, he ran his fingers over the soft leather cover, studying the details of the embossing. It was truly a beautiful book and he knew he would treasure it always.

Picking up the book on Star Charts he sat back and began to look at it then he remembered the note that was still in his shirt pocket and pulled it out to read it once again.

He was about to gather up his things, minus the two videotapes (he had given one to Ryo and one to Shu), and take them to his room, when Shin and Lorelei walked in with a bottle of champagne. Who was he to refuse, after all it was his birthday.

The three sat on the floor talking and when Touma and Shin blew up the doll, the howls really started. They decided to have some fun by dressing it up in one of Nasuti’s skimpy nightgowns, which Nasuti was more then happy to loan them. “It was worth it just to get a rise out of Ryo who was sleeping in his own room tonight because he had been embarrassed by Touma’s remarks.” She ad told them.

Shin and Lorelei took it to Ryo’s room and placed it in the bed beside him while Nasuti shot off a couple of pictures. Touma stayed downstairs since he was afraid he’d laugh too loud and wake the warrior of fire up.

The grandfather clock began to strike midnight, which was Shin and Lorelei’s signal to allow Touma, upstairs. Feigning fatigue, Shin started to help Touma pack up his gifts and then the three of them headed upstairs as Shin and Lorelei helped Touma with his gifts. Touma chuckled when he caught sight of Shin going into Lorelei’s room rather then the one he shared with Shu.

Touma was about to fall onto the bed for a good cry when he saw a single long stemmed rose along with a folded note card on his pillow. Picking it up he immediately recognized Seiji’s graceful handwriting. ‘Touma, to find your dreams you must follow the comet’s path. (Look in the hallway) Seiji’

Puzzled by the note, Touma stepped out into the hallway, which was dark now, and then gasped as he saw a glow in the dark comet streaking across the hallway ceiling. Its tail began at the door to his room and when he looked he saw that it ended at the doorway to he and Seiji’s room. Was that there the whole time? I hadn’t noticed! Okay Seiji just what are you up to?

Touma walked down the hall and stopped in front of the door where he found another note with the same delicate writing.

Touma’s hands began to shake, his heart was beating so hard and loud he thought for sure that the whole house could hear it. His mind was racing with the many thoughts and questions he had. He took some time to calm his nerves, he had to or else he feared he would make a complete fool out of himself.

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Seiji nervously paced around the room, fearful that Touma had decided not to play along. He thought for sure that Touma’s curiosity would get the better of him unless he just gave up on him.

Now Seiji was beginning to wonder if he should have just asked Touma to come to the room to talk or something.

Seiji was about to open the door when he saw the doorknob turning, quickly he shut off the lights and stood so he could wind up behind the door.

*************************************************************************

Slowly Touma opened the door, not sure about what he would find on the other side. The lights were out but the room had a soft glow to it. Then he realized why. “Oh my GOD!” Touma looked around, his heart was pounding harder and he could feel the tears ready to fall.

The ceiling to their room was literally covered in white twinkling lights, blue and green candles glowed from every available furniture top, and soft music filled the room as the scent of sandalwood filled his senses.

Stepping into the room all the way, Touma looked up at the ceiling as his tears fell; it was only then did he sense someone behind him as arms encircled his waist. Touma didn’t have to turn around to know who it was; he could tell it was Seiji.

“Seiji I don’t underst... Aaaa.” Touma felt warm lips on his neck giving him soft kisses. Shitshitshitshitshit Seiji is kissing my neck! Oh God I’ve died and gone to heaven.

“So do you like it? Happy birthday Touma-chan.” Seiji’s voice seemed to purr as he placed his lips near Touma’s ear, almost laughing when he felt the little shiver Touma gave off.

“Seiji? I don’t understand.” Touma was confused and still too stunned to move. Having Seiji’s lips so close to his ear didn’t help either. The scene before him was more beautiful then anything he had ever experienced, but what got to him the most was that Seiji had done this.

“Shhh, my Touma. Listen to your heart as I have listened to mine.” Seiji’s voice was sweet and soft. “This is all for you koi.”

Touma felt his skin tingle as Seiji’s sweet breath caressed his ear and then it registered. Whoa! Back it up a step! Seiji called me ‘koi‘! Touma stood there dumb founded. Sure wish I would have brought a beer up, I think I’m about to need a drink.

Twisting so he could face the blond swordsman, Touma looked into his face, his eyes were the softest violet he had ever seen, and the look on his face caused Touma to choke back the tears.

Then Touma took a long look at Seiji who was dressed in a green silk kimono with gold lightening bolts adorning it. His eyes reflected the glow of the candles and Touma saw the tears on his cheeks.

“Seiji? Are you saying what I think you‘re saying?” Oh PLEASE say it. If there was ever a time I could use a miracle... This would be it!

Even though Seiji had been behind Touma and really couldn’t see the reaction on the archer’s face, his body language spoke volumes. This is just the beginning Touma. God how good it feels to have my arms about you like this and the taste of your skin is simply delightful. Now I need to taste those lips, I have to know just how soft they truly are.

“What I’m saying is this.” Seiji placed his hands on either side of Touma’s head and before Touma could say any thing further Seiji captured his lips in a kiss that sent a shock wave of pleasure through every nerve in Touma’s body.

Yessss! There truly is a God! He’s really kissing me! Touma’s mind screamed. Touma was more then happy to respond to the kiss after all here was the man of his dreams, his true desire, kissing him. God it was better then he had ever imagined lips as soft as rose petals; breath as sweet as clover, Touma returned the kiss with as much passion as he was receiving.

The kiss seemed to go on forever as both men worked at getting the tilt of their heads just right, moaning as the yearning for each other took over, and instincts kicked in. All too soon, as far as they were concerned, the kiss ended. Touma and Seiji gazed into each other’s eyes, trying to catch their breath.

“Seiji... I... How... You... Why...? I thought you and...” Touma found himself stammering. Great, a 250 IQ and you can’t even ask an intelligent question you baka!

“Touma, I have had feelings for you for some time now, I just didn‘t know how to tell you. I was also ashamed, not of you, but that I was feeling this way for my best friend.” Seiji brushed his lips against Touma’s again. “I realized that I have been a fool for too long, but no more, this is who I am, and you are whom I want in my life.”

Seiji felt his heart racing, kissing Touma was like a breath of fresh air and now he knew he had to have it all. It was as though someone had opened his heart and freed it, so many emotions were streaming forth and it felt so good.

“You don’t know how many times I’ve imagined myself in your arms Seiji. I wanted to tell you so many times what was in my heart, but I feared rejection by you. I couldn‘t have lived with myself had that happened.”

Touma looked to the floor only to have two fingers placed under his chin drawing his head back up as lips brushed his in a feather like kiss. “Mmmm” Touma moaned and laid his head on Seiji’s shoulder.

“I felt the same way, too afraid of losing your friendship. Touma I have a confession to make and I hope you won’t hate me for this.” Now Seiji was the one to look at the floor. “You see that night I came back from my date with Kelsey and I discovered you weren’t here, I found your journal out on the balcony.”

Touma‘s head shot up and his eyes widened as he looked at Seiji. “You read it!” Touma’s cheeks turned a bright red. Damn I am like so dead! “Seiji I can explain really, just don’t hate me okay?”

“Touma relax, I could never hate you I only read the page that it was open to. The one about your one wish for your birthday.” Seiji’s eyes met Touma’s. It had been a long time since Seiji felt this flustered about anything. “If I hadn’t I would have never known that you cared as much for me as I do for you. That journal of yours is what brought us together.” Seiji kissed him again.

“Touma, what I’m trying to say is... I think I’m falling in love with you.” Seiji’s eyes glassed over, hoping that he hadn’t moved too fast, but the words had been locked in his heart for so long that he needed to free them.

“Seiji?” Touma searched his eyes and sensed the sincerity of his words. That did it for the archer as he flung his arms around Seiji‘s neck. “Oh gods (a kiss on the forehead) that’s all (a kiss on the nose) I need (a kiss on the right cheek) to hear. Seiji I (a kiss on the left cheek) love you so much it (a kiss on the chin) hurts.” Touma could no longer hold back the emotions building inside him as his lips finally claimed Seiji’s.

Seiji moaned and his lips parted inviting Touma in. Then Seiji felt the warmth of Touma’s tongue enter into his mouth to explore, to feel and to taste. Seiji’s hands slid down along Touma’s side to grasp his hips, pulling him closer. Seiji could feel Touma’s desire growing within the confines of the denim material and he moaned into Touma’s mouth.

Touma finally broke the kiss, moaning as Seiji pushed his leg up against Touma’s heat. Reaching up to brush the hair from Seiji’s face so he could look into both eyes, Touma smiled. “I love you Seiji Date, you are the light that fills my soul and you are the joy that fills my heart.”

Seiji felt the tears slide down his cheeks as he looked into the eyes of love. Love that was for him and him alone. He finally knew that this was where he belonged, in the arms of the man who was his best friend, his confidant and soon to be lover. “Touma, there’s one more gift, and it’s hanging in the bathroom, go check it out while I get things ready here.” Seiji kissed him. “I want you Touma-chan, but only if that’s what you want.”

“Gods Seiji, I want you too.” Touma pulled Seiji close and kissed him hard, his hips began grinding against Seiji and he could feel Seiji’s erection pulsating under his robe. “I’d better go check that gift out; besides, we kind of left the door opened.” Touma walked over and closed it then turned the lock. “Don’t need Nasuti having one of her Kodak moments.”

While Touma was in the bathroom Seiji quickly pulled the mattresses off both twin beds and pulled out the dark blue sating sheets he had bought. Fitting them over both mattresses to create one big bed. Seiji quickly changed the CD that was playing and grabbed a bottle of oil from his dresser and placed it on the floor.

Hearing the bathroom door open, Seiji turned as Touma walked out. Seiji’s breath caught in his throat. Touma looked absolutely stunning. The traditional robe suited him very well. “Seiji it’s gorgeous, thank you.” Touma looked at the dark blue silk kimono that had gold stars covering it; a dark blue obi held the garment together.

“I cannot wait to see what the heavens have brought to me under that robe.” Seiji whispered as he pulled Touma into his arms to recapture the lips he was becoming addicted to.

“Seiji, you have made all my wishes come true, thank you.” Touma stroked Seiji’s cheek.

“I have only begun to make your wishes come true. We have a lifetime to make every one of our wishes come true that’s if you’ll have me.” Seiji nuzzled his face into Touma’s hair.

“Now that I’ve got you Seiji... I’m never letting go.” With that Touma claimed Seiji’s lips as they slowly lowered themselves down onto the mattress. Two hearts were now beating as one, two souls joined as two bodies united.

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