"Why did you come last night?"

Startled, Dokugakouji turned and found his brother standing a foot from him. He chuckled inwardly, amused with himself. "You're getting better with tracking." He relaxed. "And I'm getting worse with hiding."

"You're just clumsy," Gojyo corrected softly. Narrowing his eyes, he repeated his question, "Why were you here last night?"

Doku watched him warily for a few seconds before replying, "Why, little brother? Afraid of a raid when you and your precious companions are asleep?" He almost regretted saying it right after.

To his surprise, Gojyo shook his head. He stepped off the light and moved to the shadow of the cave, standing closer to Doku. Much too close. "No," he answered. "I was just disappointed."

"Disappointed?" His breath caught.

The corners of Gojyo's red eyes crinkled, and his mouth widened slightly with a smile. He bent toward Doku, brushing his lips with his own, inhaling his scent as he whispered, "You should have stayed longer."

Doku closed his eyes. "Sneaky youkai." He listed his arm and rested it on Gojyo's back, closing the gap between them. Surely, Kou wouldn't miss his absence. He'd just say that he had to go for a little while. There was someone important he just had to see.


(fin)