Autumn 3

Chapter 3 - One Day Later

The golden light of afternoon sun filtered in through the room's window, cool air coming in through there. Outside, the autumn trees continued in their sway as wind continued to blow, causing the decaying orange leaves to dance in the afternoon air.

Sendoh watched that scenery take place for awhile before turning his attention back inside the room. He sat at the edge of the bed, watching the person who he had shared his bed with from last night until now... He blushed. No, not like /that/.

A few minutes after Rukawa had fallen asleep, Fuji had come out to look for them since she and her friends had finally decided to go on home. Thankfully, she had a car so it was easier. Anyway, after she had come to discover what happened with much amusement, he'd guided a barely conscious Rukawa towards his sister's car. Since the car had been too small, the two of them had to occupy the front seat while the others took the back seat. After slaving on bringing home Fuji's friends, finally, he decided to just let Rukawa spend the night here - and day too - since it would be too hard to get Rukawa to go on back to his apartment. So, they'd spent the night here - together - though they wouldn't really have any memory of it.

Sendoh sighed. No, most definitely not, they would have no memories of it at all. In fact, since he was still feeling a bit high even now and his head ached like hell, there were but little things he remembered from last night. The significant events were clear to him though like... He smirked. Rukawa drinking, dancing... And that long, breath-taking kiss they shared. Sendoh blushed, grinning stupidly. Anyway, there had been more. He'd been positive that Rukawa had said something important about himself like a revelation but he could barely remember it now. The emotions were more clear. The passion, the freedom... Last night had been intense.

He turned back to look at the sleeping boy, a warm smile playing on his lips. For quite a while now, he had been awake. Fixing the first meal for the day, he'd discovered his sister to just wake too and they'd had coffee together, sharing stories that had happened last night. It seems as if she was going to have a date with one of the male friends she had been with last night. That was nice. He was happy for her. Anyway, after that, he'd told his own story about the kiss at the edge of the harbour. She had screamed in shock, so happy for him even after he explained that a kiss didn't really mean that they now had a relationship or something. It could just be the vices' effect or something. No matter though... He was still happy for what had happened.

After 'breakfast', he'd showered, changed... but Rukawa was still asleep when he returned. He laughed softly. Well, he understood perfectly. The sleepy boy who was in his bed had every right to sleep. Perhaps last night had been the longest he had been awake. Sendoh snickered to himself for awhile then suddenly stopped, alerted that Rukawa seemed to now be waking.

Warm... Rukawa blinked up at the unfamiliar ceiling that greeted his wake. Where was he? What happened...? A sudden flash of last night came back to him and he blushed intensely, still feeling the ghost of a kiss on his lips. What happened... They'd gone on to Siren and had many many drinks and drugs. He'd gone on to... Damn. He had danced. And then there was Sendoh hitting on him - that much was clear to him now that he was lucid. People had known about an assumed relationship between Sendoh and himself and the gossip has now probably been spread to all high schools. And then there was the kiss... Rukawa blushed furiously, knowing there had been more, that he had said more and that they had done more... but he didn't remember now. Warily, he looked down at himself as if trying to confirm if he was still dressed then was relieved as he saw a black tank top covering his torso. With a sigh, he focused more clearly on the room... He looked from the ceiling to the side where the window was located. He noticed the room as belonging to Sendoh. His eyes widened, as he was suddenly feeling extremely uneasy. Sendoh!

"Finally..." Sendoh said in a dramatic tune. He snickered. "Sleeping beauty awakes."

Rukawa sat up immediately, unprepared to face Sendoh now after what they'd done last night. And a headache greeted him, pounding his skull like a jackhammer to an asphalt pavement. The room seemed to be spinning quite a bit. He closed his eyes briefly, waiting for the dizziness to stop before opening them slowly to meet the amused blue irises that belonged to his friend.

"Get up, sleepyhead. Let's go get some coffee, alright? And then, you can use the shower."

"What time is it?" Rukawa asked, trying to wonder why everything seemed so loud to him - as if that was enough to distract himself from blushing openly in front of Sendoh.

" 2:39 pm ." Sendoh just grinned. "Come on now, get up."

Rukawa sighed, stretching a bit before trying to get up. It was hard at first, almost a challenging feat but he managed to do so anyway as he immediately headed towards the bathroom. When he did so, he locked the door and went on towards the mirror, looking at himself there. Damn... He looked like hell. His hair flattened on one side, standing on the other. He looked horrible. Turning the tap on, he went on to wash his face, rinse his mouth with mouthwash and comb his hair thoroughly just to look at least presentable. After that, he went back to Sendoh's room to face the unforgivable grin of Sendoh's face. Though he was a little annoyed, he felt extremely embarrassed about last night, hoping that the times when he could not recall did not involve anything too mortifying. And right now, more than embarrassed, he felt an old uncertainty, a very familiar fear. It made him want to bolt out of this room and run very very far away from Sendoh as possible, contradicting with another part of him that wanted very much to stay and never part from Sendoh. His insides were very contradictory and he wondered if he was still high or if he had just gone crazy.

"Come on." Sendoh urged, standing from the bed to open the door. "I made 'breakfast'."

Rukawa sighed to himself in silence and just followed the older boy. Going down to the kitchen, Sendoh served dry cereal and coffee to him. He refused first to eat anything but Sendoh chided him greatly for not wanting to eat. Eventually, he ate his meal as Sendoh watched him intently. The meal had been quiet and Sendoh hadn't said anything significant as he was hoping deep inside himself to finally get this over with so that he could run on home until he was far from who he feared. After the so-called 'breakfast', Sendoh had urged him to just have shower while he take care of the utensils he had used for the meal. Thankful, he had gone on to shower, borrowing yet again some clothes from his friend. After showering...

"Why don't you spend the night again?" Sendoh asked, not wanting Rukawa to go just like that. He actually wanted to speak about themselves, about what Rukawa thought about what he meant by the proposition he'd presented with the kiss last night. He watched as Rukawa towelled his hair, now wearing his navy blue shirt and an old pair of jeans. He wondered if Rukawa remembered the kiss actually since it was something even /he/ barely remembered.

"For what?" Rukawa could only ask, feigning his knowledge about actions done last night.

"I don't know." Sendoh shrugged. "I just want you here..."

"I... actually have homework due tomorrow." Rukawa said, first making it an excuse then realizing that indeed, it was the truth.

"Oh." Sendoh tried not to sound disappointed. He looked on at the younger boy. "So, I guess you've got to go now?"

"Yeah..." Rukawa shrugged. Done towelling his hair, he went on to put it to the hamper in Sendoh's room before gathering his things and placing them on a paper bag that Sendoh had provided. He stood up and walked on towards the door.

"Uhm, one on one tomorrow?" Sendoh asked hopefully.

"Uh... maybe..." Rukawa shrugged. He opened the door and went out. Before he closed it though, he bid farewell. "I'll see you soon... Uh, bye..."

"Bye..."

After the door closed, Sendoh looked for a long time at it, wondering why Rukawa seemed so intent to leave. Maybe it was true about what Rukawa had said about his homework. That didn't justify going off so quickly though. It was still early afternoon. Rukawa could do his homework quickly enough even when given a short amount of time to work on it. Rukawa was a smart person but sometimes his passion towards basketball stifled his school work since time was poured more towards his interest and not his studies. Now though, during the off season, Rukawa had concentrated on school matters and he was actually doing a superb job. Sendoh smiled wistfully, as if wanting to follow Rukawa to his apartment, perhaps help him with whatever homework he was working on even if he didn't need help, and finally gaining some moments to speak about last night.

Shaking his head to himself, Sendoh just sighed, letting himself lean on back to his bed as he looked up at the ceiling of his room. The bed still smelled of Rukawa, the cherry shampoo and smoke and alcohol. He was thinking...

Tomorrow, at school, surely the gossips would begin to haunt him. It's not like he cared though. The gossip would die down eventually. It wouldn't bother him so much. What would bother him would be the wait for their intended one on one when /finally/, they would get the next chance to see each other once again. Sighing to himself, he decided to rest for awhile as his head still hurt after all. Maybe later the pain would die away. He needed his calmness to go on back to him before tomorrow started and school occupied him once again.

Closing his eyes, he let sleep claim him.

***

Rukawa sighed, walking on back to his building at a quick pace. He had his arms around himself as he felt the cool air brush against his skin. He hadn't borrowed a jacket or at least a sweater from Sendoh so he felt more than a little cold. Thankfully, the far walk from Sendoh's home to his own increased his heart rate, thus increasing his temperature. Unfortunately, even despite that, it was still cold. Winter was just around the corner, after all.

Turning around a corner on a street, his apartment building came into view and he entered it hastily, going up immediately to his floor then to his apartment. Finally after he entered his familiar apartment did he relax quite a bit, knowing he was out of danger from whatever he felt fear from. Sighing, he leaned down to take his boots off before placing them in his closet. He went on in towards his living room, attempted to turn on the light and rolled his eyes as he remembered that it had exhausted itself just yesterday. He went on in to his room, to his bed until he seemed to melt into it as his thoughts seemed to aim to plunder his sanity from him.

Last night...

Despite that though, as he woke up earlier on, he felt a sudden fear deep within his heart, something which rooted from the early childhood of his life. He felt scared and he realized a few vital things that he hadn't stopped to realize before.

Sendoh Akira...

For the past few months, something happened, right? It had all began with basketball. Since Sendoh was stronger, more skilled, he respected him. He challenged him a few times then suddenly they had constant one on ones, that leading to something more. Suddenly, as he had realized just the other day, they had gotten close enough to become friends. He became comfortable enough to trust him to go to his home, to allow him to go on to his own home. In those months, Sendoh had been a very good friend. And last night...

What did that kiss mean?

Rukawa sighed, shifting from his position so that he lay face down on the mattress. He didn't want to face the world. He was too scared, too confused. If Sendoh just wanted him, that would be fine. But he didn't want to risk anything. He didn't want to lose Sendoh. Now that he had realized about it, Sendoh had already wormed his way to his life and he couldn't imagine just losing him like that. Sendoh was his only friend...

And now... what was he going to do?

He was scared to face him, scared to confront whatever it is that Sendoh felt for him. Because he knew that there would always be complications, something to take Sendoh away from him. It had always happened. He didn't want it to happen again. Rukawa frowned, closing his eyes tightly. For a few more moments, he decided, he'd just rest like this as the bed made him comfortable. And then he'd do his homework, prepare dinner and chat with 'Seven' to maybe ask advice from him. With that final thought, he dozed off, letting his body relax completely to the soft sheets and pillows underneath him.

***

Where was he? Rukawa typed on his keyboard absently but didn't press 'enter'. He was in that familiar chatroom where he had found his most recent 'friend' but the other wasn't there yet. Rukawa sighed, closing his eyes briefly, letting the music from his CD player soothe his still aching head and body. After a three hour nap, he'd woken up to a dark room where his digital clock read '6:30'. He had gotten up, still a bit groggy, fixing dinner for himself, eating then doing his homework. All that had taken three hours, which was a big change since he was actually quick about those things. It miffed him quite a bit but he did know what caused his loss of focus for tonight. It was because of a certain spiky haired Ryonan High basketball player, one he now safely called a friend. That and the kiss from last night...

Rukawa blushed within his seat, fidgeting uncomfortably as if Sendoh was actually here in the room with him. He opened his eyes again as if to confirm this and sighed almost stupidly once he saw that he was alone as usual.

If he closed his eyes again, he could still feel it. Warm, pliant lips that knew their way. A french kiss that took both their breaths away. Absently, Rukawa reached with his fingers to touch his lips. Damn... Sendoh was a very good kisser. The act itself was unforgettable.

There was a sudden sound that distracted Rukawa from his thoughts and he looked on ahead to see that someone wanted to talk to him. He was almost glad for it since it would take his mind away from his worries for now. Later on, when Seven would turn up, he'd have to ask him for advice or something. Seven would surely know what to do; he was glad that he'd found him as a chat mate recently since he was the only other person that Rukawa could openly talk to about personal matters about himself. At that, he was also glad of the existence of technologies such as internet, chat and email since it served as a way for withdrawn people like himself to express themselves in an environment where they didn't have to embarrass themselves by being such awkward persons.

<Tensai> hiya! asl

Upon finally giving attention to the person who wanted to chat with him personally, Rukawa looked surprised for awhile at the coincidence of Sakuragi finding him and choosing his nickname so as to chat suddenly. He rolled his eyes, almost wanting to just close the chat room. He knew what they would talk about. About Sakuragi as a 'Tensai' and whatever else foolish remarks that aho would say. Rukawa wanted to /not/ chat but suddenly, he hesitated, knowing that this was an opportunity to wonder /and ask/ about some things about his team-mate's behaviour towards him.

<Tensai> What are you, deaf?
<Black-cat> This is a chatroom. I don't need to 'hear' you.
<Tensai> Hn! Well, you gonna tell me your asl or not?
<Black-cat> Alright... 15/M/Here
<Tensai> Mine... 16/M/Here. Alright, you like basketball?
<Black-cat> Straight to the point, eh? Yeah, I like it.
<Tensai> Don't you think that the Tensai is the greatest?
<Black-cat> You mean the great Rukawa Kaede?
<Tensai> WHAT? That dumb homosexual fox? I'm talking about the handsome, macho Sakuragi Hanamichi. You probably haven't heard about him since he just recently was forced to grace the crowds with his spectacular skills. He's great! You just have no life perhaps since you don't know that great man! Bwahahaha!
<Black-cat> *rolls eyes* An idiot, you mean. And I do know that /you/ are Sakuragi. It's /that/ obvious.
<Tensai> What? What are you talking about?
<Black-cat> Don't pretend. Look at your nickname and prepare to be stupefied.
<Tensai> YOU! Even if I am Sakuragi, I know you can't do anything. I know you could be a pervert, a stalker or whoever but knowing that I am the Tensai wouldn't affect me at all! You're probably just some weak punk who's so short that a mouse would look like a giant!
<Black-cat> So immature...
<Tensai> What'd you say?
<Black-cat> Can't you read? I said, 'So immature...'
<Tensai> I saw that! You know if I ever know who you are, you're toast!
<Black-cat> Oh boy... Do you always chat like this with random people?
<Tensai> Hn... You're just rude, that's why I talk this way to you!
<Black-cat> I'm telling the truth and my observations. No person is always right, you know. There will always be a second or third opinion.
<Tensai> *smirk* Alright, alright... I'll be civilized and shit. Who's this anyway? Any of my sensei?
<Black-cat> Let's just say that we've met before.
<Tensai> Yeah, I do have a lot of fans...
<Black-cat> *rolls eyes*
<Tensai> Heh, lighten up! Anyway, you like Shohoku High team?
<Black-cat> Yeah...
<Tensai> I assume that I am your favourite player?
<Black-cat> Rukawa Kaede is by far the greatest talent in Shohoku.
<Tensai> GRRR!!!
<Black-cat> Like that's going to scare me. Anyway, that's my opinion. You could at least respect it.
<Tensai> Alright, whatever. I don't know what people see in that fox!
<Black-cat> Why? What do you mean? What are his negative attributes anyway?

Rukawa was more than a little curious about Sakuragi's opinion of him. It was not that he cared but he had never really heard the truth behind Sakuragi's constant insults towards him. He wondered if Sakuragi truly hated him or not. Was it just a rivalry? Was it true hostility?

<Tensai> Well... He's sleepy...
<Black-cat> And what's wrong with being sleepy? Maybe he has reasons.
<Tensai> You defend him? Argh! Anyway, I would certainly like to hear his reasons!
<Black-cat> Maybe it's because he can't sleep at night? Maybe practicing basketball nightly or he's an insomniac?
<Tensai> Whatever...
<Black-cat> Anyway, what are his other negative attributes?
<Tensai> He insults me!
<Black-cat> And you insult him too. In fact, you're the first to insult him, right? You're also the first to hit him and provoke him.
<Tensai> ...
<Black-cat> See.
<Tensai> Hah! What do you know?
<Black-cat> Everything.
<Tensai> Damned arrogant fool.
<Black-cat> Hey, I thought you were going to be civilized.
<Tensai> Yeah, yeah... Anyway, what else do I hate about him? Uh, the fact that I have this girl I really really really really really really really really really -
<Black-cat> Okay, made your point there...
<Tensai> really really really really really really like her! And then she likes him. But he doesn't like her back. So, that's very unfair! He breaks her heart probably by ignoring her and she doesn't even see me.
<Black-cat> I've heard rumours that you two - Akagi Haruko, is it? - were spotted in Siren. So, what are you talking about?
<Tensai> Er...
<Black-cat> Then what are you mumbling about?
<Tensai> Well, I was mad for awhile that Rukawa was ignoring Haruko-san but a few weeks ago, she finally noticed me I guess... I don't really know what new thing happened between us.
<Black-cat> So, why are you still mad at Rukawa?
<Tensai> Hah... Actually, I don't have any reason anymore. It's just fun to keep on hating him!
<Black-cat> Why do that?
<Tensai> It's called a rivalry. I don't know what he really thinks about it but our fights are never serious anyway. I guess it's nearly equal to a friendly fight. And between us, that's quite a funny way to describe our scuffles.
<Black-cat> ...Uhm, anyway, you said he was homosexual?
<Tensai> Yup! Haven't you heard the latest news? I didn't have to hear it, you know. I was there, seeing the shocking revelation. That happened in Siren last night.
<Black-cat> What happened?
<Tensai> We spotted Rukawa. Me, some of Shohoku team members and other high school basketball players were there and we were very surprised to see the fox walking alone there. He looked so arrogant!
<Black-cat> Or just self-confident...
<Tensai> Don't defend him! Anyway, after that, we asked him why he was there. He didn't say anything for awhile... And that's when we saw who he was with.
<Black-cat> Who?
<Tensai> Sendoh Akira of Ryonan High!
<Black-cat> Really?
<Tensai> Yup! Sendoh had his arm around Rukawa's shoulders. *mortified* Then Sendoh told us that they were together.
<Black-cat> You're just jealous.
<Tensai> Eh?
<Black-cat> Maybe you have feelings for Rukawa?
<Tensai> What the hell are you talking about??? You little shit...
<Black-cat> Civilized.
<Tensai> *rolls eyes* Anyway, that's when it hit us. Rukawa had never been interested in girls because he was a flaming homo! Bwahahaha!
<Black-cat> And you feel there's something wrong with that?
<Tensai> Heh, nah... I have lots of friends who are gay and all.
<Black-cat> Care to enlighten me?
<Tensai> Maki, Fujima, Jin, Mitsui, Kogure... Lots more...
<Black-cat> This is surprising.
<Tensai> You don't sound enthusiastic. Heh!
<Black-cat> I guess I'm a bit anxious right now. Waiting for someone to go online...
<Tensai> Oh. Well, whatever. Nice talking to you, man... I gotta go now.
<Black-cat> Wow. Civilized.
<Tensai> Shut up! K, bye...
*Tensai logged off*

For a long time, it seemed, Rukawa just looked on blankly at the screen, amazed at the conversation he had had with Sakuragi. What the hell...? But anyway, he'd learned some things at least. That Sakuragi didn't actually 'hate' him but like him, found their 'relationship' as that of friendly rivalry at least. Rukawa shook his head in a sort of bewilderment, not really know what to react to Sakuragi's revelation. Anyway, he'd also learned that the gossip about Sendoh and himself was spreading like wildfire now especially with the aid of the net. He could just imagine the attention he would be getting tomorrow. Now though...

Where the hell was Seven? It was now 11:02 pm. Usually, Seven was online by 9:45 . He had been online since 9:28 and still he couldn't find his online friend. He wanted to talk to him about the details of what happened between himself and his 'soccer player'. He wanted to share his experiences, ask about the significance and ask for advice to follow on through. Maybe he'd tell him about his fears and Seven could have a solution for it. So now... Where the hell was Seven?

As if to appease his need to converse with the mysterious chatter, there was a sudden 'ding' and a window opened itself in front of his eyes. The other person inside the two way chat room was none other than Seven.

<Seven> Hi! You missed me, didn't you? ^_~
<Black-cat> Shut up.
<Seven> Is that any way to greet your friend?
<Black-cat> We're friends? *shocked*
<Seven> Hahaha... You're doing a poor attempt at a joke. You seem happy then. So what happened between you and Mr. Soccer?
<Black-cat> Questions, already?
<Seven> What? You wanna know why I'm late?
<Black-cat> Well, yeah...
<Seven> *wipes tears away dramatically* Didn't know you cared. This is so touching... *sniff*
<Black-cat> *taps foot impatiently*
<Seven> Alright, alright! I was actually asleep. The night in Siren really drained me. I should be going to sleep right now but then I remembered you. ^_^ Now, do you feel so lucky?
<Black-cat> Who's lucky? You? Of course, you are!
<Seven> *huff* You really are happy. I bet you and Soccer man got it on.
<Black-cat> Eh... It was not like that...
<Seven> What happened?
<Black-cat> He revealed that we share the same feelings... in some way, I guess.
<Seven> Hahaha!
<Black-cat> What?
<Seven> That's reminiscent of the love story of Sendoh/Rukawa.
<Black-cat> Eh? What do you mean?
<Seven> What? You mean you don't know? You were in Siren too, right?
<Black-cat> Yeah... I don't know the whole story though.

Rukawa nearly grinned. It was definitely best to feign ignorance. Besides, he was interested in what Seven was going to say about himself and Sendoh.

<Seven> Well, they revealed that they were together. And they danced... I saw them. I was especially looking at Kaede-chan. Damn, he looked so good last night. He walked as if he was like one of those vampires in Anne Rice's novels. Like Lestat maybe? Or Marius?
<Black-cat> You're into vampires?
<Seven> Yup!
<Black-cat> Just like Sendoh...
<Seven> Eh? How'd you know?
<Black-cat> Er... People like to find out about their crushes, right?
<Seven> You've got a point there. ^_~
<Black-cat> Anyway...
<Seven> Yeah, and Kaede-chan and Sendoh began to dance. They both moved with fluid grace especially Kaede-chan! I mean, it was obvious at first that he wasn't into dancing and social gatherings but when he moved, it was like he had always danced his whole life. The way his hips moved, the arching of his neck, his eyes closing, the way he looked only at Sendoh. Damn! Then Sendoh turning him around and touching his slim hips. Ahh! I'm going mad here!
<Black-cat> *backs away* Mad man.
<Seven> I know! *laugh* But they looked so sexy together. *drool* I'm a big fan of them from now on...
<Black-cat> *laugh*
<Seven> Hehe, and you know what? There's a new channel on this server. You know what it is?
<Black-cat> What?
<Seven> # Sendoh x Rukawa Fanclub

Rukawa stared at the monitor.

<Black-cat> *blink*
<Seven> I know, I know... But there are apparently lots of yaoi fans around Kanagawa. Most of them are high school students. I'm currently in that channel, looking at how humorous they're talking about the latest and hottest yaoi pairing around... *amused*
<Black-cat> They have no life...
<Seven> And you do?
<Black-cat> *smug* I have my soccer man.
<Seven> Heh, so what happened between you two again? He told you and how did you react?
<Black-cat> Uhm, I don't remember...
<Seven> *laugh* That really reminds me of... er...
<Black-cat> What?
<Seven> Heh, never mind.
<Black-cat> Whatever...
<Seven> So, anyway, what happened this morning?
<Black-cat> I think he forgot about it. I could barely remember it too.
<Seven> Hahaha! I wonder what he did to you last night.
<Black-cat> Hentai! Get your mind out of the gutter!
<Seven> Heh, alright alright... So, what are you going to do now?
<Black-cat> A new problem.
<Seven> Don't know how to carry on, huh?
<Black-cat> Exactly.
<Seven> Well, you act natural. Drop hints here and there and maybe you'll get the opportunity to talk about 'what you did'. ^_~ Hehehe...
<Black-cat> And then?
<Seven> You find out if what happened was real or not.
<Black-cat> And then...
<Seven> Sex!
<Black-cat> Hentai!
<Seven> Don't say you don't want to. I'm sure your soccer man is very hot.
<Black-cat> He is...
<Seven> Heh, so what's the problem?
<Black-cat> I think... I'm afraid...
<Seven> Afraid? Afraid of what?
<Black-cat> I don't know. It's like I just don't want him. I need... uhm... don't know how to explain.
<Seven> You love him. ^_^
<Black-cat> What?
<Seven> How can you be oblivious to your own feelings? You're nervous since he's special to you. The thought of him is enough to affect you in the best/worst ways... am I right?

Rukawa couldn't believe his eyes. Was Sendoh like that? Was he special? Yes, of course, since they were almost like best friends. Did he affect him enough in any which way? That was....

<Seven> Hello? Hah, I bet you're realizing it yourself now. ^_^ I'm happy for you.
<Black-cat> That's not the cause of my fears though. Loving him or not... I'm afraid.
<Seven> Huh? Why? You can tell me.
<Black-cat> I guess I don't want to lose him. If he gets any closer... then suddenly leaves, it'll hurt like hell.
<Seven> *sigh*
<Black-cat> What?
<Seven> You avoid contact of the first kind at all costs. Do you fear to feel other people? Being ignorant of others, you will never be betrayed or hurt, though you will never escape from feeling sadness. A person cannot erase sadness forever... Everyone is alone.
<Black-cat> ...
<Seven> That was good, huh? That's the best quote in Evangelion.
<Black-cat> Evangelion? *confused*
<Seven> It was told by the Seventeenth Angel Nagisa Kaworu to a young boy named Ikari Shinji. Shinji is like someone I know... perhaps like you too. Shinji was alone, fearing the affections and advances of other people. Because he has experienced a great deal of pain before, he wants to escape from it by escaping contact from other people. That didn't work though as whether he was alone or not, sadness will never really leave. Anything is futile so why not try to be with people so as to feel happiness even for a short while?
<Black-cat> ...Heh...
<Seven> You laughing? What I said was true though. You only have to admit this to yourself.
<Black-cat> You said so much. Are you going to be a psychologist?
<Seven> Very funny... But I do recognize that you're trying to change the subject. Heh, but I'll let you win this time. Let's talk about something else. Hey, how about join # Sendoh x Rukawa Fanclub? It's so fun! And you won't believe what I've found...
<Black-cat> Huh? What? I'm about to join the channel...
<Seven> Some of the people there have links to their personal sites. I just found a shrine dedicated to the coupling of SenRu. I found fanfiction on them and fanart and even some photos and profiles on them. And oh yeah! Winamp Skins! O_O
<Black-cat> Really? There are fics on them now? Tell me about them...
<Seven> Heh, gladly. There's one fic where Kaede-chan is supposedly a son of a rich man. The rich man is part of Yakuza that's why he's rich. One day, that man unknowingly steps on a rival gang because of some kind of scuffle between gangs. The rival gang then decides to take revenge on the rich Yakuza by hurting his one and only relative - his son Kaede. Uhm, a warning on this one. It involves major angst and even rape. After being damaged, Sendoh is the one to shelter Kaede-chan. They end up falling for each other...
<Black-cat> ...

Rukawa stared in shock at that kind of story. It was obvious that he was the one involved in the rape. Yakuza men taking advantage of him at a weak moment... He involuntarily shivered, not liking the idea one bit. But then the story was bittersweet since Sendoh would be there for him. Sendoh would love him. Sendoh would not care about his damage.

Rukawa sighed to himself, knowing that indeed that was just a fanfiction. Still though... He couldn't help but grin slightly. There were now fanfiction on Sendoh and himself? What the hell is up with the world? It interested him though... quite a bit. He'll probably use his more insomniatic nights to read some fics about them. That'd be 'fun'...

<Seven> Hey, you still there? Have you logged on to the chat room yet?
<Black-cat> Yeah, hold on...

An amused glint in his eyes, Rukawa clicked on the said chat room that praised his supposed partnership with Sendoh. And what greeted him was something truly extraordinary. There were more than fifty chatting - perhaps even a hundred. There was constant chatter amongst the people there and Rukawa looked on at what the hell were they talking about now...

<Ru> *shriek*
<Ka> *louder shriek*
<Wa> *loudest shriek*

Yes, Rukawa recognized them. He rolled his eyes involuntarily.

<Al> Someone shut up the Rukawa Brigade...
<Mina> Heh, that would be futile. Just ignore them. ^_^
<Kei> So, anyway, that really happened? What else did you guys see? You know, after the dance?
<RukawaFan> They say that they were spotted drinking and smoking some joint...
<Mina> And after that, there were rumours that say that they were spotted outside, near the sea.
<Hojo> What'd they do there? O_O
<Al> Apparently, they kissed in a long, wet french kiss... Tongue and all. ^_^
< Yemen > How do you know this?
<Bal> It's not a sure thing really... But there's one who claims she saw it personally. Don't know if we should believe her or not.
<Kei> *drool* Damn, they make such a cute couple.
<Ru> Yup!
<Ka> Yup! Yup!
<Wa> Yup! Yup! Yup!
<Mina> *rolls eyes*
<RukawaFan> And you know what I wish?
<Gongana> SO CUTE!
<Al> What's your wish?
<RukawaFan> Them having a photo session together. You know, pictures that hint that they're close enough to be a couple.
<Hojo> A homoerotic theme, eh? *drool*
<XC> And them wearing designer clothes... *mega drool*
<Kei> And in the background, some really nice scenes.
<Bal> Like in the rain, walking underneath an umbrella. I saw this happening the other day, you know!
< Yemen > And their expressions talking about what they feel at that moment... *dreamy sigh*
<Mina> Hey, bal, you saw Sendoh and Rukawa?
<Bal> Yup! They often play basketball with each other. This has been happening during the past few months and...
<Al> Go on...
<Kei> Don't kill us with the suspense!
<Gongana> Wait! They've been playing together for months now? Man, I want to see them together like that! Even if it's just them playing a game...
<XC> BAL!
<Bal> Hey, hey... *snicker* Anyway, after that one on one session, Sendoh opened his umbrella and went over to protect Rukawa from the rain too. Rukawa seemed surprised...
<Ichi> HOW SWEET!
<Mina> Go on...
<Bal> So, after that, I guess Sendoh asked Rukawa to go on with him for awhile. They walked together after that along the sea. They were talking about something I couldn't hear. They looked so cute together. Anyway, that's when I had to go on home so I didn't follow them.
<XC> I would've followed them home. That was a rare opportunity. We don't even know their addresses you know!
<Gongana> Well, their information have been kept strictly private in their schools. I guess since they're popular, they wouldn't want stalkers following them around. *grins at XC*
<XC> *innocent look*
<Ichi> Bal... They must have looked so romantic like that.
<Mina> A priceless experience. I wish I could've been there.
<Hojo> Then why don't we all check 'em out tomorrow?
< Yemen > Great idea! They'll surely play one on one tomorrow.
<Seven> I've got an interesting question for you guys...

Headache... It seemed to get more intense at the conversations that invaded his privacy. Rukawa glared at the screen. A part of him was darkly amused at how his relationship with Sendoh was being evaluated but another part was thoroughly annoyed that they have to pry just like that. He paused however when he saw the almost comforting name of Seven appear in the chat room. Curious, he looked on at what he had to say...

<Mina> We hear ya, Seven...
<Seven> What if Sendoh and Rukawa were here in this chat room right now?
<XC> That'd be impossible. They'd be together in a room right now.
<RukawaFan> Hentai!
<XC> Hehehe...
<Gongana> If they're here, I wish them all the best for their relationship. I hope they'd last for always.
<Ichi> If they're here, I'd like to ask them for a picture with both of them together. ^_~
<Hojo> Or their autographs.
< Yemen > I'd like to see them kiss! But then that's not possible... LOL
<Kei> I'd like to ask their theme song.
<Ru> Their anniversary!
<Ka> Their anniversary!!
<Wa> Their anniversary!!!
<Al> *ignore*
<Mina> Heh, but they're right. I'd like to know when they got together. Something to celebrate for us, right?
<XC> What I'd really like to know is who's top and who's bottom!
<Mina> ROFL You're hopeless!
<RukawaFan> *shakes head*
<XC> It'd be interesting to know though.
<Seven> Uhm... *raises hand*
<Mina> Go ahead... LOL
<Seven> I actually know Sendoh personally...
<Gongana> Really? How lucky!

At that moment, Rukawa decided to finally join in...

<Black-cat> And I know some things about Rukawa...
<Al> Whoa! New fan alert! Hey, let's all welcome black-cat everyone!
<Ru> *cheer*
<Ka> *cheers*
<Wa> *more cheers*
<XC> So, you guys know about the famous duo eh? Tell! About who's top/bottom. ^_~
<Seven> Sendoh is bisexual. So, he's been with females before...
<RukawaFan> *growl*
<Seven> Heh, so it's safe to say that he's a top.
<XC> He told you this?
<Seven> It's pretty obvious, you know.
<Mina> What about Rukawa?
<Black-cat> Bottom, I think...
<Kei> Hehehe... That's pretty obvious, I think.
<Black-cat> Huh? What do you mean?
<Kei> Look at him! He's so beautiful and graceful that he's like a woman.
<Seven> Yup. And I think with regards to personality, he'd really be a bottom.
<Gongana> I get it... I think...
<Mina> Explain to us, oh great Seven!
<Seven> Heh, alright. Since Kaede-chan is passive, silent, he is obviously a withdrawn person. People like that rarely do the initiative. Sendoh is outgoing and aggressive. Simple as that.
<Al> Whoa... Are you a psychology student or something?
<Black-cat> I ask the same question. *laugh*
<Seven> Heh, black-cat, you know me well now, eh? *grin*
<Mina> Let's all give a round of applause to Seven!
<Ru> *clap*
<Ka> *clap**clap*
<Wa> *clap**clap**clap*
<Kei> *cheers*
<Seven> Hey, stop, before it goes to my head. *smirk*
<Mina> But that was a brilliant deduction, oh great Seven. If I didn't know better, you are actually Sendoh!

Rukawa stopped. Sendoh as Seven? It couldn't be... But then...

Rukawa felt his heart getting faster at the possibility. If Seven was Sendoh, then he'd know everything about him now. Perhaps it was not the case. Perhaps it was...

<Black-cat> You're Sendoh?
<Seven> Hey hey! *laugh* I told you that I was personally acquainted with Sendoh, right?
<Al> You're right. Besides, what would Sendoh be doing here?
<XC> He'd be in bed with Rukawa!
<Mina> Hopeless maniac...
<XC> *laugh*

Rukawa couldn't help but frown in disbelief at how vulgar some people could be. He was determined to ignore them, he knew, but it couldn't be helped that he be annoyed at how openly discuss his personal life. He was getting tired of this. Maybe he should just call it a night. After all, tomorrow, he'd face more of these. It would be a never-ending cycle for awhile...

People staring, whispering behind his back, laughing...

It didn't really matter. He didn't care about anyone's thoughts about him. And yet...

Yet...

Rukawa switched back to the two way chat room he shared with Seven. Pausing for quite a bit as if thinking of something to say, he looked blankly at the computer screen. And then he sighed as he just typed his parting words.

<Black-cat> Hey, I gotta go now...

It took a few seconds more of waiting before Seven finally noticed his message and responded.

<Seven> Huh? Leaving so soon?
<Black-cat> Yeah... We do have school tomorrow, you know.
<Seven> Heh, or maybe you're just excited to see Soccer man.
<Black-cat> Shut up. It's not like that.
<Seven> Hehehe...
<Black-cat> Uhm, one last question...
<Seven> What? ^_^
<Black-cat> You're not really Sendoh, are you?
<Seven> Uhm, why'd you ask?
<Black-cat> Because...
<Seven> Hmm?
<Black-cat> No, it's nothing...
<Seven> Huh? ...Oh...
<Black-cat> What?
<Seven> I understand.
<Black-cat> What?
<Seven> You have a big crush on Sendoh as I recall.
<Black-cat> ...
<Seven> ^_^ If ever I am, what would you tell me?
<Black-cat> I don't know.
<Seven> Well, let's keep that a mystery then. ^_^
<Black-cat> ...I gotta go now.
<Seven> Alright. See you again tomorrow night, alright? I like you.
<Black-cat> Uhm, yeah...
<Seven> Good night.
<Black-cat> Uh, you too. Bye...
<Seven> Bye...
*Black-cat logged off*

For a long time, Rukawa looked at the screen in silence after logging off. He wanted to know many things - his curiosity perked up to the maximum. New questions arose this day and he was confused as hell. Firstly, there was the matter with Sendoh. Next, it was all about Seven. Were they the same person? It made sense though... Sendoh and Seven had the same personality. He wasn't so sure as to confirm it though.

Rukawa sighed, fidgeting in his seat as he continued to stare at his laptop. Absently, he scrolled up the chat room he had shared with Seven. He read some of the lines silently. They were powerful words, something unexpected for a seventeen year old person. They analyzed him completely, as if he was just a simple problem taken from a textbook.

Yes, that was something true. Ever since he was a child, he avoided others, be they other kids or adults. Seeming to care for him but he didn't trust them enough to get close. He couldn't even trust himself to let them get close. Ever since the last of his family had died, he swore that no one would leave or die again because of him. He'd always thought himself as some kind of jinx. And maybe that was what he was. If Sendoh ever disappeared from his life, that intense feeling of loss would happen again and the next time, he didn't know if he would still be able to go on.

Odd deduction but somehow, it was the truth.

Because they would eventually leave...

Because he was far too used to being alone.

And because when they would leave, his sanity would leave along with them.

So, yes...

He did fear other people.

How could that be true? Being in school, watching others socializing with smiles and laughter, he'd always felt something deep within him, something hidden and undefined. He'd always watched them - silently, curiously. He'd always wondered why he could never be like them. And deep inside, there was a certain ache that pounded within his soul. Was it sadness?

No, most definitely not. But he could admit that last night he had felt something that made him feel at ease. In fact, over the past few months, he'd felt something akin to what people described as 'happiness'. He knew the source of it. The person who was irreplaceable. The person who erased a part of his darkness...

Sendoh Akira.

The person who played with him constantly and shared enough moments to become his friend. Slowly, easily, two people who were separate became one entity. They were always together, barely apart. Everyday, they expected to play with each other or to just talk. It had always been like that.

Rukawa stood from his seat, moving over to the window of his room. He drew the curtains aside so that the moonbeams could come inside his room. Sighing to himself, he leaned his forehead and body against the glass, just looking up at the silver moon.

It was not as perfectly round as last night. He remembered briefly that he had been looking up at it, glad of its presence. Then he remembered speaking how much he liked the moon, just because it was a constant light to his darkness. He didn't recall the rest of his words, just the fact that he had been somewhat emotional. He wished he didn't say anything too embarrassing.

Anyway, the moon looked beautiful tonight, just like it had always been. He almost smiled at the sight, letting a pale hand touch a part of the window where the moon met his vision.

A feeling of happiness...

He realized that Sendoh made him feel this. He wondered what Sendoh felt about him - why the older boy continuously hung aroound him. He knew he was not the most friendly person in the world - definitely far from perfect. Yet, Sendoh was always there, like an angel guarding a lowly mortal. It made him feel lucky - so very lucky. It was a feeling that he wished would last for always.

And it made him think that...

If Sendoh ever wanted a relationship then he'd eternally be grateful. He'd never had a relationship with anyone before. If Sendoh wanted him, he'd give himself. That would be a small amount of his gratitude. He'd give everything he could give.

And yet...

Yet...

What did Sendoh really feel about him?

What did the kiss mean?

Jolted from the questions that pounded in his head, Rukawa closed his eyes, running a hand through his fine raven hair. He wanted to know. Even from earlier on in the day, after waking, he wanted to know. But, back then, he had suddenly lost his courage. He had been such a damned fool - a pathetic coward.

Sighing to himself, Rukawa finally turned back towards his room. There was a deep feeling in his heart right now. He wanted to see Sendoh, talk about last night... But it was late - 12:04 pm . What was he going to do? Wait until the next day? Wait until the sun was up again? Rolling his eyes to himself, he suddenly noticed his telephone. His eyes widened slightly.

Yes... There was the telephone...

He neared the phone slowly, heart suddenly beating faster. He could only wonder silently at why that was so. Why the thought of hearing Sendoh's voice made him nervous all of a sudden - his heart beating faster as if he was some love struck little girl. And then he remembered what Seven told him earlier on when he shared his fear...

A small twitch in his lips as he thought about that...

And yet...

Rukawa closed his eyes momentarily, trying to even his breathing. After a few more moments, he opened them again and stared at the phone's handle. He moved to pick it up but a sudden sound broke through the silence.

The phone was ringing.

***

Sendoh looked up at the ceiling of his room, done chatting for the night. After 'Black-cat' had logged off, he oddly didn't want to chat anymore. He had only been interested to speak with that one person. Though true that the younger chatter wasn't the most interesting person to talk to in the world, there was something about him... Something amusing, interesting... Or just the simple fact that he reminded him of Rukawa.

His eyes widened a bit, thinking suddenly of that. What if Black-cat was actually...? Blinking his eyes in the dark room, he sat up suddenly, looking sideways to his unbarred window. A small smile touched his lips as he looked on up at the sky, noticing the moon and the black heavens.

If Black-cat was Rukawa then it would explain a lot. The thought made him smile. It also made him curious and longing. He wished Rukawa wouldn't have gone on home so quickly earlier on. He wished Rukawa would have stayed the night - here in his room, in his bed... Both of them laying side by side. No words would have been needed. And if Rukawa would allow it, he would have wanted to hold on to him closely, feel the warmth of their bodies so near each other. He wouldn't have wanted to let go...

Thinking about it though... Perhaps Rukawa was just like Black-cat. Maybe he had fears about having a relationship. Perhaps...

Wait a minute!

Sendoh's eyes widened as he recalled words his mystery chatmate had told him before...

<15/m/here>

<Nah, there's just no one to come out to. If there's someone, it'll be the whole school. That's not an option.>

<I... live alone. No parents, no family, no friends.>

<I've been with him for quite awhile. I never really looked at him as a friend until recently.>

<Uh, yeah... Just today, he was half-naked and I was near him. I... I...>

<That's not the cause of my fears though. Loving him or not... I'm afraid.>

<Uhm, one last question...>

<You're not really Sendoh, are you?>

Those words! Shocked, Sendoh stared wide-eyed at nothing in particular, suddenly realizing something. He felt something shatter in his seemingly realized world. That something was amiss - something that had suddenly been revealed as a reality instead of a bogus perception. There was something new, something he had not expected at all...

Moving his head sideward towards his side table, he looked at the telephone. He wanted to speak to Rukawa but it seemed so late. But then, if what he thought was real... really was true... Then... then...

He picked up the phone and dialled a memorized number... It rang for awhile...

Finally, the phone was picked up. There was silence for awhile for Sendoh didn't really know what to say to the younger boy. What was he going to tell him? Would he ask him about his assumptions? Should they speak about last night? About the kiss? About what they felt?

He didn't know what to say and the seconds ticked on in silence...

Suddenly though...

"...Akira?"

The voice was soft, silent - what was expected of Rukawa in any situation. Sendoh smiled despite himself, as he felt endearment for the younger boy at that very instant.

"Wow, you know me just like that?" he teased, not being able to resist. There was silence for awhile before Rukawa answered.

"...You're the only one who calls me..."

Sendoh felt sad at that fact. He felt lucky that he had become Rukawa's friend but he couldn't help but feel that Rukawa deserved so much more...

"Why... why did you call?"

Was their uncertainty in his voice?

"Uhm, I just wanted to talk to you..." Sendoh spoke, shrugging as if Rukawa saw him. "And anyway, you're still awake? That's bad for you, isn't it?"

"You're still awake too..."

Sendoh chuckled, knowing that Rukawa did have a point in that. "You sound happy. You're actually attempting to do a poor joke." There was silence for awhile at the other end and again, Sendoh smiled with endearment. "So, what are you doing?"

"Nothing... Just talking to you..." Rukawa answered softly. "What are you doing?"

"Same... Anyway, tomorrow, you don't have a long practice, do you?"

"No... Uhm, anyway, about that, can we not have a one on one?"

"Huh? Why not?"

Rukawa seemed hesitant. "Uhm, I think there would be gossipers on the lookout for awhile. They may decide to go to the park where we often play. If it's alright with you, can we look for another place to play?"

"That's okay! And you do have a point. Even if they don't really bother me all that much, it's best to have our privacy, right?"

"Right..."

"Uhm, you sound tired... You better go to bed soon..." Sendoh didn't want to stop speaking but if Rukawa felt tired then...

"No, wait..."

"Huh? What?"

"I want to see you tomorrow..."

Sendoh's eyes widened. "That doesn't sound like you at all..."

"I... I know..."

Rukawa seemed nervous? Sendoh grinned. "Well, I'd like to see you too..."

"Would you like to go here after school? In my apartment?"

"Huh? Sure!"

"I'll cook for you... What do you want?"

"Anything!" Sendoh declared in joy. Rukawa was /very/ friendly tonight. "Anything at all... Why invite me anyway?"

"There's something we should talk about... Important..."

"Yeah, I guess we do, don't we?" Sendoh smiled, thinking about that fact. Rukawa's words tonight seemed so unlike him... It made Sendoh amused a bit at how oddly the younger boy was acting... yet also, he felt a bit nervous. What exactly do they have to talk about? Will it be for good or for bad? Inside himself, he believed fully in something positive and yet, fear could never really be avoided in any situation...

"Akira..." Rukawa spoke his name so softly, almost unheard.

"What is it, Kaede?"

"I... hope I didn't disturb you..." Rukawa spoke, not even realizing that it was Sendoh who called him.

"Nah... I was thinking of you actually..." Sendoh smiled softly, imagining how Rukawa looked like right now. Undoubtedly, Rukawa was standing stiffly beside the telephone while he was laying down in relaxation on his bed. The younger boy had never really been good at any form of interaction...

"Uh... why?" Perhaps Rukawa was blushing. The thought made Sendoh grin in satisfaction, wanting to see the other's expression.

"That's a secret." He chuckled lightly. "So, I imagine that you're standing stiffly by the phone, unable to relax..." There was silence on the other side and he knew he was right. "Tell me... were you thinking of me?"

That seemed to lighten the other's mood.

"No, I was thinking of Sakuragi."

"Hah, my dear, you are trying to attempt another joke, right? Oh, well, maybe you'll improve in time..."

"Shut up."

Sendoh shook his head. "You can't sleep, can't you? You want me to tell you a bed time story?"

"Huh?" Rukawa seemed surprised.

"Alright, I'll tell you one. Now, go on and lie down on your bed. Are you lying down now?"

"This is pointless..."

"But are you lying on your bed?"

"Yeah, whatever..."

"Alright!" Sendoh grinned. "Once upon a time..."

"Good night, Akira, I think I'll go to bed now."

"Uh, Kaede, you're already in bed." Sendoh laughed, unable to prevent himself from doing so. He heard a faint chuckle in response and his heart warmed even more. "So, it's late, you should probably be getting some rest soon, alright? I'll go to your place after school."

"Alright..." Rukawa spoke, almost a whisper in his tone. "Good night, Akira..."

Sendoh could only smile in contentment. "You too, Kaede..."

The phone was silent for awhile, indicating that Rukawa hadn't placed his phone's handle down. Regretting the lost opportunity, Sendoh just shook his head, closed his eyes before placing his own phone's handle down. When he opened his eyes again, he looked on up at his room's ceiling, a stupid smile on his face. Well, he felt better somewhat. Rukawa had been speaking in a very odd manner. That meant that Rukawa did recall the kiss. And that also meant that maybe Rukawa felt something between them. He could only wonder what they were to speak about tomorrow. Was it going to be another evolution in their relationship? He hoped so...

Shifting to the side, he watched his phone quietly, remembering the quiet voice he had just spoken to. He sighed before looking on to his computer nearby. There had been no real heavy hints that indicated that Rukawa was Black-cat during the phone call. The thought of Rukawa and Black-cat being the same was nagging him greatly. It made him want to test if Black-cat was still online or if he had just been mistaken about his assumptions...

Eagerly, he got up and went on towards his computer, quickly logging on again. He heard the swift dialling and the indication that he had logged on. Immediately, he went on to the Siren's chatroom and looked for that familiar handle...

Black-cat... was there...

He clicked on that name.

<Seven> Hey! What are you still doing online?
<Black-cat> Nothing... I couldn't sleep...
<Seven> You too?
<Black-cat> And you too?
<Seven> Yeah, I'm thinking right now of... a lot of things...
<Black-cat> Lovelife?
<Seven> Yeah...
<Black-cat> Me too...
<Seven> We're the same, huh? It makes me think of things, you know.
<Black-cat> What sort of things?
<Seven> Too many to mention. ^_~
<Black-cat> Me too...
<Seven> We're the same in so many ways, no?
<Black-cat> I guess...
<Seven> So, we're talking again...
<Black-cat> Yeah... And I have something to ask of you...
<Seven> You're gonna ask me how we seem to be so comfortable around each other? Like we're friends in real life...
<Black-cat> I... wanted to meet you...

Sendoh looked wide-eyed at the screen. So, his chatmate finally wanted to meet him? Was it something that was preliminary to something dangerous? Or was Black-cat really someone he knew personally? Now, he wasn't so sure...

<Seven> You mean...
<Black-cat> Tomorrow, at night, in Siren... If you want to...
<Seven> ...
<Black-cat> It's okay if you don't want to...
<Seven> No! I mean, yes! I mean, sure, why not? ^_^
<Black-cat> Aren't you busy tomorrow?

If this was Rukawa then... He would know of their intended meeting tomorrow. But if not...

<Seven> What time do you want to meet anyway?
<Black-cat> About 9 pm perhaps in the bar in Siren? After dinner maybe...
<Seven> Why the sudden thing anyway? By the way, the time is fine...
<Black-cat> I don't know... I was just suddenly curious...
<Seven> I'm curious about you too. ^_^ But then I thought you saw me as a pervert...
<Black-cat> I haven't changed my mind about that.
<Seven> Hah! You love to joke tonight, don't you?
<Black-cat> ...
<Seven> Why? Do I still remind you of someone you know?
<Black-cat> ...
<Seven> Okay, okay... Let's talk of something else... Hmm, what do you want to do tomorrow when we meet? Sex? Drugs? Alcohol? Cigarettes? Hey, you could bring your soccer man along while I bring some friends along... Let's have an orgy!
<Black-cat> *rolls eyes* You never change, don't you?
<Seven> That's why you love me. ^_~
<Black-cat> Arrogance is the sign of a weak mind.
<Seven> *sarcastic* Oh, praise you, the second coming of Confucius!
<Black-cat> Sarcasm is for idiots.
<Seven> *rolls eyes* You're having a field day, aren't you? Or you're just happy... ^_~
<Black-cat> Whatever...
<Seven> Heh, tomorrow then...
<Black-cat> Alright... I gotta go now... Again...
<Seven> Suit yourself. ^_^ Tonight's sure full of surprises...
<Black-cat> Bye...
<Seven> Yeah, bye...
*Black-cat logged off*

Sendoh looked on weirdly at the screen, trying to figure out why this night was so full of surprises. Was he to meet this certain Black-cat in Siren tomorrow? What will be his benefits? He knew he couldn't wait to meet him but something held him back. Perhaps deep inside himself, he had a hope that his chatmate was a certain person familiar to him. If not though... It would still be okay, right? Sendoh looked on at the ceiling in silence, as if trying to analyze it.

Tomorrow...

A meeting with two people he hoped would be one and the same. He was already excited to see Rukawa. They would have a pleasant afternoon together. The thought was warming his heart greatly for it was Rukawa himself who invited him to his home. Rukawa would then cook dinner for him and they would talk. What would they talk about? What should he say? At first, perhaps, he'd ask him simple questions about their night in Siren. Like, for example, if he recalled things they've done, or what he felt about having a relationship with anyone... His sexual preference and all those queries that lead to opening up about themselves. That would be a brilliant strategy, wouldn't it?

Anyway, after that... He'd have to go on and meet this intriguing Black-cat. What should he wear? Maybe he should change his usual appearance into something surprising. Surely, whoever this Black-cat was would have a heart attack upon meeting him. Since the younger chatter had said that he had a crush on the one and only Sendoh Akira...

Sendoh grinned mischievously, shifting to his side and closing his eyes. Tomorrow then...

Tomorrow...

***

After talking... He hadn't gotten over that one quite yet. Speaking with his friend on this late night and hearing enough hints from both himself and Sendoh... The thought was exciting him yet also provoking something undefined. He didn't know what it was. Standing up again after that phone call, he rushed towards his computer to want to check on Seven, as if to confirm something. That was when his bounds were broken as Seven suddenly spoke to him. Too curious, too perplexed, perhaps the time had come to meet the mystery chatter. He knew he didn't have to really show himself tomorrow. All he wanted was to see who Seven was. Consequently, that would be after that dinner he suddenly promised Sendoh. That would be more intriguing.

His heart beating quickly as he closed the chat program, he didn't know what to do now, too caught up in things which he normally didn't do. He acted way too spontaneous tonight but even the thought of that didn't bother him so much. All he wanted to do was wait until tomorrow came. He wanted to prepare the best dinner ever and he also wanted to go on to Siren to meet his online friend. He was too excited, too hyper to go to sleep. Wondering silently, he thought that maybe tomorrow was a school day to miss despite himself. It wouldn't matter. His teachers wouldn't really miss him since all he ever did was sleep in class anyway. Besides, he would have to face gossipers. And what was he to say to them? If tomorrow's meeting with Sendoh would result in something significant, then at least the next day after tomorrow would mean that he would at least have something to say to curious gossipers. That made him both nervous and anxious. It really stifled any attempts at sleep tonight.

Sighing softly, Rukawa looked on at the web browser in front of his eyes. The site that was open was a search site and in his curiosity, he suddenly typed something in the text box.

'Gay sex'... It was a totally random thought in his mind. The words made him blush as he suddenly realized that tomorrow may just be an opportunity... Trying to bar his mind from any dirty image, he looked on at the sites listed for the keywords 'gay sex'...

A significant amount of porn sites were listed and he scanned through them. Choosing one informational site, he entered that one...

The site was well-made and information about how to actually engage in homosexual intercourse was present. Blushing furiously at what the hell he was doing, Rukawa read on for the rest of the night, despite the qualms of his ethics and morality. Really, he didn't care...

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