The Twin Thrones

It was a struggle to get Kato into the low-riding, black slacks. They were snug but didn't pull too tightly anywhere. The deep crimson shirt billowed away from his skin, settling on his shoulders and gaped open when he moved his arms. The naked flash of the kid's narrow, delicate twin collarbones was pleasing.

“Prince Kato, as I have said for the fifth time, it is common for someone your age to dress like this,” Redaku said with the right mix of patience and indulgence that always seemed to piss the kid off. Kato ignored him and fastened the top two buttons of the billowing, sleek shirt. “Why are you upset about this? Look your best. That's not too much to ask, is it?” Redaku pushed Kato's hands away and undid the top three buttons. “You cannot go around in those wretched loose robes you're so fond of.”

Kato puffed out several breaths and growled, “I look stupid.” He backed out of Redaku's range and refastened the buttons. The collar hugged the kid's throat too tightly and looked severe. “I'd change, but since you took it upon yourself to pack for me, everything looks like this,” he said miserably.

“My God, Kato! You're acting like a child. You will insult Prince Shinko if you do not make the effort.”

“Damn you and him! I am not dressing like some whore. Besides,” Kato said and settled himself in a wide, leather-covered arm chair. “I don't have to take your advise,” he finished smugly.

Redaku's face reddened. “You stupid boy! We do this for you.”

Kato rolled his eyes.

Noberu knew Redaku would not harm the kid, but this was the angriest he'd ever seen the normally reserved and patient man. The kid might be royalty and may have been prepared for many challenges, but he was still just a kid. He learned only what could be taught through text and not experience.

The kid could be a brat. He threw tantrums, rarely made any sense and really needed to be turned over a knee. Today, it was tempting. Redaku quickly covered the distance to the youth and plucked the top three buttons clean off of his shirt. Redaku's heavy breathing was the only sound in the room.

Noberu used the strained silence to call Rato and two of his men to him. He sent Rato ahead to scout the dining room and kitchen. The food tasters would need to be notified. When Noberu returned his attention to the pair, Redaku was sitting across the room muttering to himself. The kid was still silent. That wasn't normal and he waited for Redaku to fix it. Kato started plucking the smooth sleeve of his shirt.

“Prince Kato,” Redaku's voice was tired. “I don't know how to explain how important this is.”

“I'll wear it tonight, but I'm getting some new clothes tomorrow.” Kato continued picking at his shirt sleeve in short, jerky movements.

Redaku looked to Noberu as if to plead for help. Noberu frowned. He could get the kid's attention, but no one was going to thank him for it. He studied the kid and his family extensively, both royal families. He knew the kid's weakness and hesitated, not really wanting to use it just to get the kid to dress in clothing that made the kid so uncomfortable. Still, they all needed the kid to do what his father sent him to do.

“Prince Kato, your father would be proud to see you right now,” said Noberu calmly.

The kid jerked as if he had been struck. He curled into himself, bringing his legs up, and wrapping his thin arms around them. He wouldn't look at anyone. Redaku moved next to him, rubbing small, comforting circles on his back. “I'm sorry,” the kid murmured into his legs. Well, he wasn't acting like a brat anymore, but this wasn't much better.

Noberu shook his head. Getting dressed for dinner shouldn't be this trying. Nothing was easy with this kid, but he understood the kid's reaction to the clothes.

The shirt's opening was too low and showed much of Kato's thin shoulder's and chest. It made him appear vulnerable and very young. The pants accentuated his small, pert rear and narrow hips. The deep crimson shirt matched the natural color of the kid's lips, after he'd been chewing on them, and it looked good. If his dark, heavy locks were longer, he would look like a small, delicate female. Noberu watched the kid nod miserably as his father's advisor murmured words of encouragement. He would make arrangements to have some of the kid's outfits altered but not all. they might have their place.

The kid's dad must be pimping his son out. Marriage was expected and necessary, regardless of who the kid finally got stuck with. They were either using the kid to get information or convincing Shinko to ascend the throne sooner than later. It was a bold move.

The remaining three Kitsurin siblings were stunning tacticians and completed each task with a single-minded determination Noberu appreciated. He had spent a great deal of time studying the four remaining royals, now three.

At first, Noberu was shocked at how long Takimore had lived. He remembered watching footage marking Takimore's induction into the hall of masters, earning his seventh belt of eight in sword fighting. It wasn't King Yoshi or the weapons' master who shook Takimore's hand and offered him his newest belt, it was Seshimora.

Takimore barely came to Seshimora's chest. He was rail-thin, just beginning puberty with gangily limbs he would only have a few years to grow into. The trust and pleasure in the tawny-haired youth was etched into the wide eyes and youthful cheeks. Seshimora was just beginning to gain the heavier muscle of a man, though he wasn't as wide as he is now. He rested his wide hand on his younger brother's shoulder with gentle eyes, clearly forgetting their audience. He ruffled the curly hair and smiled warmly. Of the three, Seshimora was probably the most compassionate.

Though he watched countless hours of video and shuffled through pictures too numerous to remember, he could not find much that actually had the elusive Shinko in it as a child. He was forced to spend a lot of time trying to find video and satellite feed in which others mention Shinko. He found so little, he had started to wonder if the man had lived off-world for a while. Shinko rose from obscurity a few years ago and captured the public eye.

The tall dark-haired prince had his father's personality, welcoming his people with a playful sensuality that left women moist and men hard. The long list of lovers and unconventional wooing methods created an unpleasant, but never boring relationship between the local press and the palace publicity specialists.

In the past years, Prince Shinko's exploits should have made him cannon fodder. It should have threatened his position to Ascend. It did not. His popularity didn't extend to the military. It shouldn't have extended to the politicians, but it did. It was disconcerting and it made him trust Shinko the least. Shinko was a playboy and yet still a wild card.

Shinko didn't lead any causes, nurturing others and planting the seeds for trust as the youngest Kitsurin had. Shinko didn't identify with the military and grow strong within their ranks, loved and respected as the oldest Kitsurin had. He was gregarious, luring others into his snare with his good looks and clever mouth. Noberu still knew nothing about the man. He didn't know his politics. He didn't know what he loved. He didn't know what he valued. The few assets he had in the palace had yielded little information since he arrived.

At this point, Noberu's money was on the teenager to ascend the throne. Of all the siblings, Fusako, the youngest remaining sibling, took to studying historical battles and skirmishes with a dedication unknown in one so young. Other than Seshimora, she spent a great deal of time working with philosophers and educators. Her guard and personal advisors had her start her martial arts training from the moment she could walk. She had one advantage that none of the other siblings had. She undoubtedly lulled many of her siblings into thinking she was small and weak before snapping their necks with those little, delicate hands.

Fusako spent much of her time in recent years studying other languages, family structures from long dead cultures, star systems and inter-galactic trade. Her choice of study appeared to be random. It took longer than expected, but spies planted at the university helped Noberu learn that Fusako had assets of her own within the government, universities and a few in the military.

She was clearly setting up her own support that could help her through Ascension and later help her set up her own cabinet. She was clever and seemed to know her own limitations. A few curious facts were uncovered recently. It wasn't a surprise that she had penned several books with utilitarian themes, celebrating sacrifice and duty at the expense of everything else. It was surprising she penned the books under the name of Yuuki Hito. She tried to make it clear she would sacrifice a million to save a billion.

In recent years, Fusako started to write historical fiction and young adult novels under her own name, though none of the books were available on her own planet. Rato caught him reading one and gave him so much shit, he forced the man to help him. Then they both got shit for being girls. Watching the normally confident Rato, blush and stammer out curses each time they were asked if they needed a tissue or wanted a hug was priceless.

Fusako seemed interested in family relations, male and female roles, especially during times of upheaval. They all appeared overly dramatic and full of fluff. The very idea that this intelligent beauty would use her time on such a trivial thing was nearly laughable. She was trying to appear weak in her sentimentality. It reinforced the illusion she created. Noberu admired her. This creature was downright scary. If she took the throne, she would tear Kato to pieces. The kid could never understand this kind of duty and sacrifice.

Noberu admitted, grudgingly, he operated with the same philosophy. It's what motivated him. Fusako would make a great ally, if they both had the same goal. Being female, she had a lot to overcome. Her ruthlessness and sense of duty might be her downfall. He had no doubt, this small royal would do what she thought was best no matter the cost.

Noberu glanced at Kato, pacing back and forth in front of the chair Redaku now sat in. Fusako might tear the kid to pieces before she took the throne. He didn't know if Kato was prepared for the kind of people who he would call family. Noberu felt a small pang for Kato that he didn't understand and didn't like, so he ignored it.

“Fine, what am I supposed to talk about then?” Kato asked in exasperation.

“Let Prince Shinko control the conversation. Let him talk about himself as much as possible, act interested even if you are not. Do not insult him and don't aggravate him.”

Kato stopped pacing to stare at Redaku and pulled his brows down sharply in a frown. “I'm not stupid,” he said quietly and resumed his pacing. Redaku sighed. Kato finally threw himself into a chair next to him. “What can you tell me about Prince Shinko? I know women think he's handsome and he likes to have fun, but I really haven't been told much about him.”

“Prince Shinko guards his secrets well.” Redaku looked at Noberu with embarrassment.

Kato blinked. “Are you telling me I was given no information because nothing has been found. That's ridiculous.”

Redaku shrugged. “You need to let him do most of the talking. We know little about his political interests or motivations. It's up to you to learn what you can. I won't be allowed to join you tonight. Your guard will remain with you though.” Redaku looked up to Noberu and they all knew he was talking to Noberu, not the kid. “They will remember what you don't,” he murmured. Kato looked between the two older man, chewing on his lower lip, and nodded.

The pair remained in their chairs, spending their time in quiet, companionable conversation. The kid seemed to finally relax. His shoulder loosened and he smiled a few times. Noberu moved out of the way. He drew one of his men aside and instructed him to check with Rato and his progress. They had only forty-five minutes. He picked the team who would accompany him to the dining room. The rest would remain with Rato and be sent to eat and refresh.

When it was time, Noberu moved to stand in front of Kato. “It's time,” he said softly. Kato craned his head up to meet Noberu's gaze. He nodded and stood when Noberu backed off.

Redaku gently touched Kato on his sleeve. “You'll do fine,” he murmured and disappeared into the darkness of another room. Kato watched him leave. He steered himself and followed Noberu from the room.

The circle of guards closed around Kato. The kid was back into his own world. Noberu shook his head. He didn't like how distracted the kid could become. Of course, it's not everyday you learn it's your fate to marry into a family that celebrates patricide. Some men choose to bear children, few are forced to. The kid was probably hoping the delicate beauty would win. The two men could easily overpower him. It would be frightening. Because the kid would take on what is commonly the female role, Noberu knew he wouldn't be given many choices, not in this culture. Cunning beauty or brute force?

This was a culture where the strong had no obligation to protect the weak.

The kid allowed himself to be led to the dining room and nestled into a cozy chair next to Prince Shinko without even being aware. He blinked when Shinko asked him something. Noberu smoothed the loose fabric on Kato's shoulders and the kid stiffened. “I'll be right over there,” Noberu murmured. It was strange seeing relief fill the kid's eyes.

Noberu was glad the room was small and had only two entrances, to the kitchen and to the hallway. It was a much easier room to defend. He knew that Kato would not enjoy such a small, intimate space though. The black lacquered table was round and small, clearly only meant for two. The low-back, armless chairs were positioned next to each other, not facing each other. Noberu insisted on better lighting and his men in the room, in the kitchen and in the hall. All the preparations had been completed.

“I'm sorry, Prince Shinko, what were you saying?” The kid turned his attention to the Prince.

Prince Shinko's teeth were the whitest Noberu had ever seen. He didn't really care for the guy. There was something unseemly about him. It was just a feeling. Noberu would have felt better if he had a reason for this feeling of unease around the man. He didn't like anything he didn't understand.

Shinko was dressed in pleated, gray slacks and a black shirt with silver threads worked in an intricate pattern. His shoulder-length black hair was pulled back in a pony tail. He leaned back, relaxing into his chair. He stretched his long legs before him and turned to face Kato, flinging an arm over the back of the chair. He tilted his head and dropped his eyes to see more of Kato's body and brought them up, slowly, to rest on his face. The Prince grinned, when color bloomed in the kid's cheeks.

“You are delicious,” Shinko said in a slow drawl. He flicked the hand he had resting on the back of his chair as if to reach Kato. His eyes dropped to the opening of Kato's shirt. “A little mishap?” he asked, amusement coloring his voice.

“It's nothing,” breathed Kato. He cleared his throat. “I'm starving. What are we having?”

“I'm in the mood for something, though it's not on the menu,” sighed the Prince. That was one of the things that annoyed Noberu. The man was overly sexual. It was unnecessary and he really couldn't understand why men and women found this man so appealing.

Any other man would have been considered a whore. Though there wasn't a double standard between men and women on this planet, the man was reported to have many, many lovers. He had the perfect excuse. His wife would be chosen for political reasons, not love. He was probably interviewing concubines.

Shinko straightened in his chair. “Many lands that are held by the crown are coastal. My family is partial to the sweet meat of the seas of Kitsurin. The first dish is baby squid, cooked in its own ink, flavored with sweetened fruit and then chilled. It's served with a sweet red wine, an export from a small province south of here.”

Redaku has insisted the kid try several things from this planet over the past two months. He had been very vocal about how little he cared for any of it. He gave the kid credit though. He tried everything asked of him. Noberu was pleased with the kid so far. He was distracted but he hadn't been rude yet. He had two opportunities and didn't take them.

The dish was ladled into a white, round bowl and served on top of a large plate. The color of the bowl contrasted well with the dark, thickened liquid inside. Noberu had tried the dish as well. He didn't care for it. He was pretty certain the kid had never tired it though. The kid looked over to watch Prince Shinko start the meal.

“Try the liquid first,” Shinko commanded. “The contrast is amazing. This was the first dessert I remember liking as a child. The wine is sweeter than I usually serve with it. This would normally come at the end of a meal, but I'm very poor at putting off the small pleasures in life,” Shinko said faintly rolling his tongue over the words “small” and “pleasures” in a lewd way.

Kato smiled weakly. He dipped his spoon into the thick black liquid and brought it to his lips. He sipped it, slowly and grimaced. “It's very bitter.” Kato quickly picked up the wine and sipped it. His eyes widened a little. He took two more sips of the wine and mulled it around in his mouth.

“The warm, sweetness of the wine neutralizes the bitterness well. It's the blending of the those opposites that appeal to me. The aftertaste taste is most pleasant. Don't you agree, Prince Kato?”

Kato nodded. Noberu wanted to rub his eyes and take a nap. This was obviously going to be a long night. The kid returned to moving his spoon around in the bowl. Letting Prince Shinko control the conversation wasn't really working.

“Have you spent much time on the oceans of your planet, Prince Shinko?” The kid took a few more spoonfuls of the inky liquid and followed it with a few sips of wine. Noberu hoped he wasn't drinking too much. The kid wasn't very big. It wouldn't take much to get him drunk. That could be problematic with this lecher.

”I have an appreciation for exotic life. The oceans shelter the greatest variations of life, from single-celled creatures to the largest the planet has to offer. My favorite interest as a child was fishing. My guard would not allow me to travel as a child, so my father commissioned a small lake be built and filled for my enjoyment. I find it very relaxing even now. Do you enjoy fishing, Prince Kato?”

”I've never tried. My family's palace and grounds are not coastal like your own. Is it difficult?”

”It just takes patience. I would like to take you fishing.” Kato nodded absently.

”Prince Shinko, I couldn't help but notice how similar you and Princess Fusako look. Are you twins?”

Shinko laughed, a light and cheerful sound. “No. We have the same mother, my father's first concubine.” Shinko seemed aware of the kid's confusion. Noberu pursed his lips. He knew the kid was aware Kitsurin Royalty married for political alliances but all monarchs had at least two or three concubines. Apparently no one had explained what negotiations had already taken place. Great.

“But you need not worry. Your father's first delegation to Kitsurin included that in initial negotiations. The practice of concubines to ensure healthy offspring is now abolished. With medical improvements and other options of fertility, it is no longer needed anyway. Besides, you will be quite lovely carrying all ten of my children,” Shinko said, happily ignoring the kid's glare.

Noberu cleared his throat in warning. The kid would control himself or Noberu would. The kid shot him the same glare. Noberu merely raised his eyebrow and the kid paled. He seemed to understand he could easily be pulled over a knee with or without this audience. Shinko watched the quick exchange with a small smile.

“Find a small piece of squid and try it with some of the fruit. They're best together.” Kato nodded and followed Shinko's directions. He moved his spoon around until he found several small pieces. He watched Shinko take the first bite. Kato followed suite. He continued chewing for quite a while.

“The meat has little flavor. It's not a complaint,” he added quickly. He moved his eyes back to the bowl. He tried more of the liquid and took several more sips of wine. He seemed to enjoy that.

“The essence of the squid lies in its ink, but the texture of the meat and fruit is pleasing, yes?” Kato shrugged. Shinko frowned. “Perhaps you would like to move on to the next course?”

For the first time that day, the kid had a genuine smile. He set his spoon down. “Please,” he murmured.

Shinko tilted his head lightly. “You have a beautiful smile. It reminds me of....” Shinko's voice grew low and husky. His eyes became distant for a minute. “Let's see if this next dish can keep that lovely smile on your face.”

Prince Shinko gestured toward the kitchen. Several servants appeared to clear away the first course, including the wine. The next dish was placed in front of them. The largest plate held long, thin fish with the heads and tails attached. They were slit down the middle and stuffed with dark green, leafy herbs. A small plate with two small bundles of vegetables surrounded by a white sauce on one plate and a deep red sauce on the other flanked each side of the main dish. A large plate was set in front of the two. A white wine was placed to their right. A small portion of everything was placed on each plate.

Noberu enjoyed the thin fish and had tried them steamed, baked and grilled for the last few months. The fish were extremely expensive. Since the UP was picking up the tab, he tried many different foods. This fish rated at the top of his list though, aside from a large creature that looked a lot like a pig on his own planet. He regretted not getting a snack for himself or his men before dinner. It wasn't a good idea to have hunger distract them.

“This species of fish is no longer found in our oceans. They are raised in hatcheries on this continent. We have the most favorable conditions for them to thrive in. The vegetables are grown in the royal garden. Try the fish first.”

Kato picked up the fork and moved the tender white meat. It flaked and he lifted the delicate flesh, looking at it suspiciously. He took a hesitant bite. He moved the flesh around in his mouth and immediately took another forkful and then another. “This is very good. I've never had fish that was so sweet and flaky,” Kato said lightly, putting another forkful into his mouth.

“Ah,” Shinko sighed. He turned and leaned towards Kato. “I love watching you fill your mouth,” Shinko finished as Kato took a sip of the white wine.

Kato coughed, choking. He cleared his throat with several gulps of wine. Crap. At this rate, they weren't going to learn anything about Shinko except his favorite positions in bed and what types of whips were the best to avoid breaking the skin. The kid hunched over a little. He tried each of the vegetables with both sauces.

“I did not mean to make you uncomfortable.” Shinko gently rested his large thin hand next to Kato's.

The kid turned to glare at him. “You haven't,” he grunted. He pulled his hand away and leaned back from the tall male.

It was Shinko's turn to smile, showing too many teeth. In Noberu's opinion, it wasn't a pleasant smile. “I'm glad. Perhaps you are just concerned about the procedure you have to look forward to?”

Kato turned wide eyes to Shinko and his mouth quivered. “No,” he whispered.

“No? No one would think less of you. Male pregnancy is beautiful but not without some risks. I would be happy to explain the different options to you. There is an option I would prefer you have. Kitsurins have made improvements in the last 700 years.” Shinko shrugged. “We've borrowed some technology, but who hasn't. Your father has commissioned your own doctors and care providers. They should be arriving at the end of the week.”

Oh, fuck! Did anyone bother to explain this to the kid? It would be like just like the kid's father to leave out unpleasant truths. Maybe the king was worried his son would not be willing to make this sacrifice?

“Nothing needs to be decided now,” Kato growled.

Shinko frowned. “Prince Kato, I am sorry, but you will need to make a decision soon.”

“Nothing needs to be decided now,” Kato repeated stubbornly.

Shinko continued to frown. “You are stubborn. Very well. Shall we move on to the next course?”

Kato licked his lips. He didn't bother to look at Shinko. He started to pluck at his sleeve again. “It was nice spending time with you, Prince Shinko, but I am weary. I do hope you will forgive me for retiring early.”

“I have upset you,” Shinko sighed. “Truly, I am sorry.”

“It's been a very long day,” the kid said. It had been a long day. Between his anointment ceremony, unscheduled and quick travel to Kitsurin, meeting the royal family and now having this thrust on him again, the kid needed a break and soon. “I'm just really tired. Really, you haven't....” The kid broke off. He stopped picking at his sleeve and raised his eyes to Shinko's. He smiled, “Thank you for sharing your favorite foods with me. It was nice.”

“Ah, I do enjoy your smile. Do you have plans for the morning?”

“Prince Seshimora has asked that I watch him spar.”

“At six? That's far too early. The man is a bore - too much importance on warfare. I'd sleep in. Princess Fusako has asked my father for your company tomorrow morning. It would be unwise to disappoint her.”

“I would not want to disappoint Princess Fusako.” Kato grinned.

Shinko stood. He stepped to the side and helped Kato out of his seat. The kid was blushing again. Noberu shook his head. He moved to the other side of the kid.

“It would appear that only your guard will be escorting you back to your rooms,” Shinko said staring at Noberu over Kato's head. “Then I will say goodnight now. I hope to spend more time with you tomorrow.”

Kato nodded and though Prince Shinko was too close to him to bring his hand up to shake, he did. Shinko grasped both hands and quickly drew the non-struggling youth to him. He leaned down and brushed his lips gently against Kato's own, inhaling the youth's scent.

“Prince Shinko,” Noberu said in warning. He knew to touch Kitsurin Royalty could mean death but any further touching of his charge would result in Noberu removing the Prince by force.

”I was right,” whispered Shinko against the kid's mouth. He released the surprised youth and stepped back, smiling. He licked his lips as if tasting the kid for a second time, “You are delicious.”

The kid swooned like a virgin, and he probably was. Noberu gripped his shoulders gently and moved him to the door. The guard closed around them both. Noberu shook his head when the kid jerked his head around to stare at Shinko. The kid should have been outraged, but he wasn't. Shinko had charmed with a smile, a leer and single chaste kiss. At this rate, the kid wasn't the only one Shinko would be fucking.

____________________________________________________________________

Kato was on the edge of sleep when he felt the bed dip. Something was moving closer to him under the layers of warm blankets, but he was too groggy to understand it. Kato moaned, unable to speak yet. He couldn't open eyes. Something was wrong. He should be afraid, but he wasn't. He was relaxed, caught between the moment before waking, when physical sensations felt too far away to matter.

“Sh...it's just Shinko...relax,” the familiar voice panted against the shell of Kato's pink ear. Kato breathed in the scent of him. It was as he remembered, like a cool spring morning after a cleansing rain.

Warm fingertips traced Kato's ear. He tipped his head, encouraging the fingertips to move lower. They followed the delicate lines to his collarbone and stopped. He joined Shinko in a sigh when the blankets were slowly pealed from his naked warm flesh.

Kato's legs jumped slightly when warm fingertips stroked his thighs. He relaxed. That was okay. The stroking moved to the inside of his thighs, gently urging him to spread his legs. He did a little and the hands moved his thighs a little more. Warm hands moving in small circles on his hips and the inside of his thighs and distracted Kato when the bed dipped again this time between his thighs.

He felt hot breath along his exposed neck and shivered when long strands of hair tickled his face and chest. Small electric shocks followed biting kisses running down his neck and chest. A wet tongue traced his nipple. He shuddered. He didn't need to open his eyes to know that Shinko was arched over him. He didn't mind when a comfortable weight settled on his groin and chest. He felt Shinko's hands curl around his hips, hugging his bottom and returning to rub his butt cheeks in small circles. Kato groaned when he felt his cock beginning to harden. He angled his hips and rubbed against the weight above him.

Oh, he thought, that's nice. This wasn't like most dreams. The sensations were sharper and Kato never remembered being able to really smell anything before. He breathed in the cool scent of the man above him. Something wasn't quite right, but he decided not to worry about a silly dream. He'd worry about the whole gay thing later.

Shinko's firm stomach rubbed against Kato's dick making it a little harder. It was pleasant and Kato rocked his hips wanting more friction. Shinko's palms were massaging his cheeks, spreading them apart. He froze when Shinko's finger circled his puckered entrance.

That wasn't right.

His eyes opened slowly willing the finger from his hole. He gasped. Not once in any dream did anyone ever stick anything there. His heart beat painfully against its cage, perspiration gathered on his wrinkled forehead and upper lip.

This wasn't a dream!

How fucking stupid was he? He had never dreamed about having sex with a man. He tightened his cheeks involuntarily and pushed at Shinko's chest. The bastard would not budge. Kato could feel his breath growing harsh, the edge of his vision darkening. He stopped struggling and tried to breathe, to calm himself before he hyperventilated. He didn't want to be helpless.

“You're not fucking me,” his voice was a growl, dragged from the back of his throat. He was glad it didn't come out as a whimper.

He wasn't ready for this. He didn't want anything in his ass. Did Shinko think he did because he let the man crawl into bed with him? He wasn't about to explain he thought it was a dream.

Sure, it was possible he might be marrying this man, but it didn't give Shinko the right to be here now. He might be forced into the submissive role, but he had to set boundaries now or the man would never respect him.

“I know,” groaned Shinko. “I won't penetrate you,” he said, even though he was still rubbing his index finger against Kato's virginal hole. Kato hissed, tightening his butt cheeks to the point of pain, trapping Shinko's intruding hand. “Yet,” moaned Shinko, his voice husky and strained.

“Get your hands away from my ass,” growled Kato. Didn't the man understand Kato wanted him off now? He wasn't rubbing against Shinko anymore. He just wanted the jerk to get off of him now. He felt the man shuddering against him in a rhythm he recognized.

Kato could feel his eyes widen. The damn bastard was laughing at him! Kato pushed at Shinko's chest harder. The comfortable weight of the man wasn't comfortable now. It was suffocating and made him afraid. The man's own thighs were pressed between his own, keeping his legs open. The lone index finger was still moving and he'd freaking die than admit it felt good.

This was fucked up! He felt weak, vulnerable and his dick was twitching. What the hell was wrong with him? He could feel real panic rising again and he was trying desperately to shove it back. “Please,” he whispered, feeling sick and ashamed.

”I won't hurt you, Kato,” Shinko whispered against his neck. “Just relax and I'll move my hand.”

Kato could feel tears growing at the back of his eyes. There was little light, but Shinko was so close he might see tears. He didn't want to be weak, dammit! He stifled a whimper and forced himself to relax. He had to trust someone didn't he? After Shinko removed his hands, Kato sagged against the mattress. He wanted to bring his legs together but Shinko hadn't moved yet. He didn't want to beg again.

”I always seem to be apologizing to you, beautiful.” Shinko brushed his hair from Kato's face. “I didn't mean to scare you. Do you want me to leave?” Shinko traced Kato's lips and jaw gently.

Kato took a shaky breath. He wasn't going to admit the man scared him. He had never felt helpless like that. He was small, used to people towering over him. He wasn't used to being under a much larger male. Naked. Helpless. Alone.

God, how do women feel comfortable around big men?

He forced the trembling to still. He was okay. Shinko stopped when he told him to. It made him feel better. There was a real possibility he would find himself married to this handsome man or the really large guy who kind of treated him like a woman. He had to face this sooner or later.

Shinko started to climb off the bed and Kato managed to croak out, “Stay.” The bed shifted and Kato brought his legs together. He sat up stiffly, drawing the sheet over his naked groin. “You didn't...”

Shinko peppered his eyelids, the apple of his checks and his chin with light kisses. His entire body broke out into one huge, embarrassing blush when he realized his dick was twitching with need.

“You didn't scare me,” Kato murmured, trying to make it sound true. “I just wasn't expecting you to be in my bed...where I sleep... naked...without other people,” he finished lamely.

The dark-haired man tilted his head, considering Kato before he smiled lewdly and his lips twisted. “So who were you expecting in your bed...where you sleep..naked,” he asked and his eyes dropped to Kato's crotch.

His mouth was wide and nothing was coming out. Kato was pretty certain he looked ridiculous. He wasn't prepared for Shinko at all. He wasn't used to a man pursuing him. A man who complimented him. A man who genuinely seemed interested in him – sexually. He had no freaking idea how to act or what to say.

“You're a virgin,” Shinko breathed, his own eyes wide.

Kato knew how to deal with this. He leaned over and hissed, “I am not,” and he punched the man in ribs, “A virgin.” He felt vindicated when Shinko grunted and the bed moved. “Don't flatter yourself.”

“You were the catcher,” the man said though it sounded more like a question. Kato frowned and Shinko barked, “There is no way someone as innocent and awkward as you pitched.”

“It's time for you to leave,” Kato said pointing to the door. He had no idea what the guy was talking about. What did ball play have to do with this? Of course, he wasn't about to admit he was ignorant. He waited with a growing frown while Shinko looked puzzled. He wasn't moving.

“I knew it,” the man laughed. He climbed off the bed and for the first time Kato noticed the man was completely nude.

His face burned, but he couldn't look away. Shinko was slim but he had firm, defined muscles. He was tall with long legs that narrowed to a slim waist. The man's shoulders were wider than he expected. His dark hair hung past his shoulders, face open with amusement. Kato's eyes were drawn to the dark triangle of dark curly hair and semi-hard dark cock. Kato's eyebrows climbed higher than they ever had as he stared at the man's balls. They were dark and soft, small bumps moving as the skin on his sack rolled and Shinko's cock jumped.

Kato flinched.

“The way you're watching me. The way you panicked when I...you've never been with a man.”

“I've never had any interest in men,” Kato said in anger. He jerked backward when Shinko moved to sit beside him. His breath caught when the man touched him there and he froze.

“I know this,” Shinko emphasized the word by squeezing Kato's erection, “Is for me.”

“Shut up,” Kato tried to growl, but his voice had no heat. Kato pushed him away. How was he going to be married to this man, to either man? He didn't like being pursued. He didn't want to have to submit to another.

He was a man. Men did not get fucked. They did the fucking.

“I might be your first,” the man told him quietly. “I don't want you to be afraid.”

“I'm not your first,” Kato swallowed his words when Shinko's soft lips touched his own. Delicate fingers kneaded the back of his neck. He opened his eyes when Shinko's lips left his own. “Anything,” he breathed briefly touching his lips and feeling foolish.

“There's nothing wrong with wanting me,” Shinko said, drawing Kato's fingers away from his lips, “Wanting me to pleasure you.” Kato jerked his hand away and tried to put some difference between them. “I desire you.” Shinko watched him retreat. “Why are you afraid?”

Kato's left eyebrow managed to rise while he stared at the man. Was he serious? “I don't know you.”

“And yet, you will carry my children,” Shinko said calmly as if this was nothing new. Nothing unusual.

“I'm not a whore,” Kato said quietly. He wasn't. He had only been with two women, only last year. One he just fumbled his way to orgasm with. The other he simply let her lead since she was a few years older than himself. It was new and exciting and he liked it. A lot. This was different. Kato let his hair fall into his eyes and he looked away.

“No, you're not,” Shinko agreed firmly. His fingers were gentle, turning Kato's head to face him. “Beautiful, I want you to be my husband. I would never hurt you.”

Kato looked at him helplessly.

“I want to worship you with my fingers,” he breathed his fingertips caressing Kato's jaw. “With my lips,” he breathed into Kato's mouth. Kato's breath caught and he let the tip of his tongue touch Shinko's before he drew away. “Let me worship you.”

He didn't know what to do. He was tempted. Just a little. That little voice in the back of his head was telling him to send the older man packing. The same little voice that was slowly being drowned by his rapidly beating heart, so loud and strong the pressure in his ears hurt.

Feeling the soft mattress below him, Kato blinked into the face of Shinko. He hadn't said anything, couldn't say anything. He was drowning in the man's hair as Shinko buried his face in Kato's throat. He felt a moment of fear when Shinko's weight dropped against him.

It still didn't feel right.

Shinko's narrow hand touched him, hesitantly at first as if expecting him to freak out again. He barely reined in the fear. Shinko was nibbling his neck and it felt really good. He'd never had anyone do that before and it made him tingle everywhere. He moved his head to the side and shivered when Shinko licked him just behind the ear. How could something so small, so insignificant feel this good?

He gasped when Shinko pumped him and he unconsciously spread his legs a little. The man thumbed his slit, drawing the moisture from the head of Kato's cock. He used it to ease the friction. Kato heard a weird squelching sound and jumped when he felt cool liquid slathered over his hot, straining member.

Of course the man brought lube. Kato looked up to meet Shinko's flushed face. The darkness of man's eyes was alarming. What was he seeing? Did his own eyes look like that? It was primal, raw and so fucking HOT!

Shinko slowed his hand, gripping so tightly it was almost painful. Kato bucked his hips trying to speed the man's hand. He rocked against the man, urging him to speed it up. Shinko chuckled. Shinko's hands enveloped him so completely it felt like he straining inside of a warm cavern. Kato was too sensitive. His entire body jumped and twitched and he wondered if he was having an epileptic fit. He was drawing in gasping breaths, so close his toes were beginning to curl.

He was close to feeling that familiar pressure as his balls started to draw up against his body when he felt the larger man push his own wet erection against Kato's thigh. It was making wet trails back and forth. Kato looked up to the man's chest, he couldn't see his face only a shower of black silken hair. Shinko started to pump his hips back and forth as if he was actually fucking Kato. It was almost embarrassing.

Kato gripped the sheets and blankets underneath him. He wrapped one leg around the man's hip and started rocking into Shinko's warm grasping hand. They set a steady pace. Shinko's heavy breathing joined Kato's.

It felt good until he felt the bed rocking.

Just like it had with Elizabeth, his first. His dick jabbed at her, fumbling through her folds, trying to find the right hole and she couldn't help because she wasn't entirely sure where it was either. Neither of them had been experienced. She cried out when he pushed into her. He didn't know anything about foreplay. It was awkward, but she urged him on with a shaky smile.

It took him only a few minutes to stutter and stop to a shuddering orgasm that left her disappointed and him weak. It was messy. It was felt weird. It was awkward.

Kato remembered looking down at her flushed face, silky blond ribbons of curls spread out beneath her head. She wanted him to stay inside of her until his penis grew soft and slowly slipped from her wet, bruised passage. He wrapped his arms around her, careful not to crush her. Their kiss was wet and messy. He held her for while, neither feeling the need to clutter the comfortable silence.

She would always be his first. Je would always be hers.

This felt wrong because it was. Liz and he had shared something special. Gross, messy and not quite pleasant, but still special. Shinko was handsome and might end up being his husband, but he was stranger right now.

Wrapping his hand around Shinko's felt weird. They were both holding his dick. He stilled the man's hand and used his leg to push the bigger man away. “Stop,” he panted. “I'm not ready.”

Shinko froze and Kato felt the man's full weight crushing him. The man made a strange sound from the back of his throat. For a moment Kato didn't think the man was going to get off of him and his dick started to wilt.

Maybe he felt him stiffen, maybe he heard the rising panic in Kato's declaration that he was not ready, but the man rolled off and sat next to him. He reached down with his left hand and moved several strands of Kato's hair from his eyes. “Did I scare you,” the man asked quietly, watching Kato's features carefully.

He shook his head. He didn't have the nerve to tell the man the truth. Kato sat up slowly, uncomfortable with his nakedness.

Kato drew back when Shinko leaned against him. He lightly touched his warm lips to Kato's cheek and murmured, “I'm glad.” Kato felt Shinko's lips against his forehead as the man stood. He watched the man cross the room, pick up his robe from a chair and slip it on. Shinko stopped at the door and offered Kato a warm smile before closing the door behind him.

Kato sat in shock. What the hell had happened? He shivered.

Pulling the sheet and cooling blankets around his thin figure, Kato searched the room for his detail. He was alone. How had the man gotten in his room? Why did that never occur to him until now? He wasn't sure if he should feel relieved no one else witnessed him make a fool of himself or worried that Shinko had convinced his own guard to leave them alone.

Shinko was a stranger. Why did he let the man touch him?