The Promise and the Threat

Co-written with Aya



Akira was waiting, not patiently, but he was waiting. "Where is she?"

Daisuike was finally getting out of the hospital and Reiko was supposed to go with them to pick him up. He was pretty sure that Ruka was already at the hospital and he had a feeling that if they didn't hurry up Ruka would take him home to his house and they'd never see Suke again.

Reiko paled as she looked up the stairs towards Akira's apartment. If she walked up them, she'd just have to turn around and walk down down them and she was already late. Sighing she gingerly sat down pulling her phone out calling Akira.

"Hey, sorry I took so long, the bus had to take a detour and I tripped on the way and- It's a long story. I'm just here but I don't want to walk all the way up the stairs then have to walk down them." It had been little over a week and she was still gaining her strength back and the stairs looked like a mountain to her at the moment.

"Okay, don't worry about it. I'll be right down." Grabbing his jacket Akira headed out the door. Jiro and Haru should already be on their way. He wondered if Suke would keep up with his rehab once he left the hospital. It would be important for him to rebuild his strength. Akira had been surprised at just how weak he'd been the last time they'd visited. He shook his head. Suke would be back to himself in no time. If anything Ruka would see to it.

***

Daisuike refused to sit on the bed. He'd spent entirely too much time in it and had come to hate the awful contraption. He stretched slightly, wincing as the freshly healed wounds pulled slightly. At least only two places where going to have permanent scarring the rest would disappear over time. Though now his dragon tattoo looked weird with the scar tissue running right through the middle of it. He sighed and leaned back in the chair content to wait for the doctor's release order for the moment. Though if they took too much longer he was not going to be happy.

Ruka yawned as he walked through the hallways of the hospital. He was excited. Today was the day he was going to take Suke home and he had made sure everything was ready. The bedroom was set up so that he could easily move about and the bathroom was arranged perfectly. The doctors had said that he would be weak and need help for a while so this should work out for the best. He wouldn’t have to walk far to the bathroom and everything he needed would be right there in the room with him. The only thing left was the most important part and Ruka was really anxious for things to work out.

Sliding open the door he grinned seeing Suke in a chair next to the window. Ruka was glad to see him out of the bed, though it also made him worry about him trying to move around on his own too much. "Nervous?"

Daisuike looked up grinning as he saw Ruka walk through the door. It still gave him a thrill every time to see the beautiful man. He quickly made sure the yukata was fully closed not wanting Ruka to see the bright purple bruises that covered most of his upper body where ever the bandages didn’t. He'd been careful to make sure that no one saw the state he was in, not wanting them to realize just how hurt he really was. The way the nurses fussed over him was bad enough.

Just knowing that he was going home with Ruka made him apprehensive. He'd never spent so much time away from his family and part of him really wanted to go home to some place familiar, some place he felt safe, but he didn't want to disappoint Ruka either.

"Yeah, I can't wait to get out of here."

Ruka smiled at him walking over and leaning down to kiss his forehead. Stroking his hair softly he stepped back leaning back against the bed. "You realize that now you won't have beautiful nurses waiting on you hand and foot right? Then again that one with the light brown eyes and large breasts was a complete bitch. She's lucky I don't get her fired."

It wasn't the fact that she was a bitch so much as she wouldn't stop touching and flirting with Suke that pissed Ruka off. He wanted so badly to wring her neck and then kick her down a few flights of stairs.

Grimacing Daisuike shook his head. "None of them would leave me alone. Though it was a lot better when you were here. I will not be sorry to see the last of them. I swear that one kept inventing reasons to come check on me."

He slowly got to his feet, the surge of dizziness not as bad as it had been a few days ago. The doctors had warned him that building up his blood volume would take time. Until then he would get dizzy spells and have to take things pretty easy. He wasn’t allowed to lift anything over five pounds and absolutely no strenuous activity. Jiro had already told him he was taking an extended vacation. He wasn't particularly happy about it, but it did give him plenty of time to spend with Ruka. Though he wasn't sure what he would be able to do. There was always that, but no one, not even Jiro knew he did it and he wasn't about to admit to it.

***

Akira glanced down feeling Reiko's fingers brush his as they walked and looked at her before glancing away. He let his fingers brush hers again as they walked.

“I hope Daisuike doesn’t try to do too much now that he’s getting out.”

Reiko shrugged wishing Akira would take her hand and wondering if he’d bumped her accidentally or not. “I don’t think Ruka will let him. Did you see yesterday when Suke went to go get some tissues and Ruka basically mad dogged him until he quit trying to get up? I really don’t think Ruka will let him do anything around the house, unlike at home where he’d be trying to do all of his normal chores.”

"Yeah. You know, I've never seen Suke listen to anyone but Jiro before. That was pretty funny. You could tell how flustered he was, but did you notice the look in his eyes as he watched Ruka." Akira grinned shaking his head. "He's totally head over heels for Ruka."

Taking hold of Akira's hand Reiko gently she laced their fingers together slowly in case he wanted to jerk his hand away. Even if she wanted it she wouldn't force him.

"Yeah, he definitely is in love with Ruka it seems. They make a good couple though. Seem to balance each other out nicely."

Akira blinked in surprise as Reiko took his hand, but didn't pull away. He liked the warmth from her hand and the way her fingers interlocked with his. It was such a simple thing, but it suddenly made him feel lighter and he squeezed her hand slightly.

"Yeah, I think so too. Ruka's loud and outgoing and Suke is kind of the opposite, though I think they are a lot alike in ways too. I am going to miss Suke being around though, I was really looking forward to him being home." He glanced over at Reiko grinning. "Guess this means I'll have to call you and tell you all my problems, ne?"

"And I don't hear them already?" She raised an eyebrow at him smirking enjoying the feeling of him holding her hand back. "That's fine. But you know, I don't think Ruka is gunna forbid you guys from seeing Daisuike. You guys just gotta go over there. Maybe we'll invade every night!" She giggled swinging their hands a bit tugging him along.

They had passed the bus stop long ago so she assumed they were walking to the hospital. It wasn't that far and at this point it'd be faster to walk.

"Ne! I'll race you to the hospital!" She grinned letting his hand go throwing a challenging smirk at him.

***

"That's cause they did invent reasons." Ruka grumbled as he walked towards Suke helping him to stay upright. Stupid nurses, hitting on his boyfriend. It hurt to see Daisuike barely able to stand on his own, but it was better than seeing him laying in the bed knowing he was there because he could barely move. If Daisuike had to be in a bed, Ruka wanted him there for very different reasons. After a moment when he was sure Daisuike could stand alone he let go smiling. "There see, not so bad now is it?" Leaning forward he kissed him gently loving that subtle sweet taste and the feel of soft skin under his fingers. It was going to be difficult not to do too much as he recovered.

"Want to go see if your family is here yet? I think I got here early."

"Yeah that would be nice." Daisuike kept one arm locked around Ruka's, both to steady him self and just to be close. "I know it might sound odd to you, but I've really missed them."

Ruka nodded slowly, "It is an odd thing for me, but if it's anything like the longing I have towards you when I'm gone, I completely understand it." He leaned forward kissing his forehead gently. Helping him out he looked around for the nurses.

"Hey." The nurse turned and instantly her eyes went wide and she quickly tried to hide the look. Ruka grinned, they must really be a sight, the two of them. Beautiful men together seemed to have that sort of affect on women, especially beautiful men touching each other.

"Daisuike wants to be released."

"L-Let me find the paperwork." The woman scrambled to find the file and Ruka smirked leaning down and whispering to Suke.

"Easy enough, ne?"

"Yeah . . . why do I have the feeling that wouldn't have worked for me." Daisuike glanced up at Ruka a crooked smile on his face. He wasn't entirely sure about the look the nurse had given them, but if it got him out of the hospital that much sooner, he didn't care.

Ruka grinned as he sat Daisuike down in a chair taking the paperwork from the nurse filling it out and handing it back. Once finished he lifted Suke up leading him out.

"We can wait in the waiting room." He leaned over giving him a quick kiss on the cheek before taking him out of the back part of the hospital glad to be away from the depressing rooms.

Daisuike slumped in the chair. It was the farthest he'd walked in a while and he was ashamed at how tired he suddenly was. He sat there for a long moment unable to move before his strength slowly returned.

"Damn but this is annoying."

"Don't worry about it. Do you want a wheelchair? I know it's undignified but it's better than me carrying you, ne?" He grinned as he sat next to him. Gently he rubbed his back softly then ran his fingers through those dark silky strands that he loved so much. Leaning down he planted a soft kiss against his head grinning. A few nurses were looking towards them and he gave a soft sultry look which sent them scrambling. It was so fun to shock the nurses. Teach them to touch his man.

"No. No wheelchair and you better not even think about carrying me." Daisuike was adamant. He wanted to walk out of the hospital under his own power. He leaned over resting his head on Ruka's shoulder. He still couldn't get over how nice it felt to have someone he could turn to who didn't expect anything out of him but to be himself. If it was anyone else he would never have allowed himself to show weakness of any kind.

"Mm, I'll just carry you later. You make the best sounds when I startle you and pick you up. Then again you make the best sounds when you're-Hello Jiro." He looked at said man as he approached them and smirked. That would've been a bit bad. He knew Jiro liked him but he doubted he wanted to hear their sex life. Which he really really wanted back. He wasn’t used to going so long, but Daisuike was entirely worth the wait.

Shifting he kept Daisuike seated, "Hold on a second." Walking to Jiro he looked at the older man for a moment before licking his lips. "I have a request I'd like to ask you Jiro." He paused unsure of how to say this. Hopefully he didn't sound too stupid. "Even though Daisuike and I have planned it, I want to ask if it would be alright if Daisuike stayed with me until he was basically fully recovered. With me I know he won't try and cook or do housework. If he's at your place he'll try it and pretend everything is okay even if he's pushing himself too hard."

Bowing his head Ruka took a breath, "Please."

***

"Oi! You shouldn't be running!" Akira took off after Reiko. Had she forgotten that he was faster than her. There wasn't anyone in school or out who'd been able to beat him yet. He wasn't about to let Reiko hurt herself either.

Reiko giggled as she ran knowing Akira wasn't running as fast as he could. Turning her head she was startled to see him right next to her and stumbled. Yelping she grabbed him knocking them both to the ground.

"Itai. . ." She whined softly rubbing her elbow then going a dark shade of red. She had landed on top of him and the position was definitely . . . different.

"A-Ano. . .S-Sorry. . "

"It-itai." Akira gingerly felt the back of his head, but there was no blood, probably just a lump forming. He looked up at Reiko, dazed. "What just happened?"

He blinked again realizing that he was pinned under her, her slight weight pressing down on him. "An-ano . . . are you alright?"

"Y-yeah, sorry. Itai. Are you okay?" Going to shift she blinked realizing she couldn't for the life of her move her arm. "Ano. . ." The way Akira felt under her was making her head go a bit crazy and she found it hard to stop staring at him. They'd never been this close before and she could make out the subtle color in his eyes. His lips were also drawing a lot of her attention. Then again that was nothing new. He had gorgeous lips that on occasion she had found herself wanting to kiss lately.

"E-Eto. . . I can't move my arm." Which meant she couldn't get up. Thank god that the streets were deserted.

Akira looked at Reiko trying to figure out why she couldn't get up. Then he realized it was her arm that his head was on. Well that was easy enough . . . he started to lift his head only to stop realizing that was bringing him much, much closer to Reiko. She was looking at him with those gorgeous dark eyes her hair falling down around them. His heart was suddenly pounding like crazy and he swallowed nervously.

Reiko stared at Akira almost in shock for a moment. He had gotten a lot closer and it made her head go a bit fuzzy. She really kind of wanted to know what it would be like to kiss him. Ryuu had kissed her once and that had been a bit odd but this was different. It was Akira.

"H-here let me try." Trying to move her arm she shifted her body some blushing darkly. She was stuck against Akira, their stupid legs were somehow entangled. "A-Ano. . . It's not working." Then again she wasn't trying as hard as she could be, not wanting to actually move.

"M-Maybe if you lift your head a bit more and I pull my arm?"

***

Jiro studied Ruka for a long moment. He already knew Daisuike so well. The fact that Daisuike would try to take over all his old chores at home had bothered Jiro. He'd had a long talk with the doctor yesterday and they had been very adamant about Daisuike not straining himself in anyway. He wasn't supposed to even lift anything over five pounds for nearly a month. A basket of laundry easily weighed that much.

"Actually that sounds like a great idea Ruka. Thank you for suggesting it." Jiro patted his shoulder smiling at him and leaned closer his smile turning just a bit evil his voice low. "You owe me."

Ruka stared in shock for a moment. Okay, maybe Jiro wasn't as nice as he thought. Him 'owing' him sounded dangerous. Trying to keep his face straight he smiled a bit.

"How about dinner most nights at my place while Daisuike is recovering? I know you guys will all miss him a lot and want to see him, especially Akira, so would dinner be alright?"

He wasn't sure what else he could offer this man. The thought alone that Jiro had a jist of why Ruka wanted Suke at his house made him nervous. Hopefully Jiro wasn't like the overprotective Fathers he had encountered before.

"Dinner would be great." Jiro nodded patting his shoulder one more time before moving past him to check on his brother. Haru raised an eyebrow at Ruka before silently slipping past him.

Ruka let out a sigh of relief turning to look back at the three brothers. It made him happy for Daisuike to know he had such a loving family. Even if he envied him wishing he had a family as loving as theirs it just made him happy to know Daisuike was happy. Striding over he smiled standing with them looking down at Daisuike happily.

***

"Okay, hang on." Akira's face was entirely too warm and he couldn't look at Reiko. All he could feel was her body pressed against him and it was quickly driving him crazy. Don't think about it. Don't think about it. Don't think about it. He had to keep his mind on something else or Reiko was going to not be very happy with him. He leaned his head forward a bit more, their noses almost touching and glanced up at her. That had been the exact wrong thing to do, she was looking at him with this expression that he couldn't quite define and it made him feel as though he might melt.

Reiko couldn't tear her gaze away from Akira as he stared up at her. Why did he have to be so amazing? A single look and she felt like her body was on fire. What had changed to make him become so irresistible? Had he always been like that but she had been afraid to take a chance? Though they were never guaranteed a tomorrow so why put that chance off?

Deciding she wanted to take a chance she leaned forward as she brought her hand out from under him nudging him just a bit closer to close the distance between them. All in all it wasn't like it wasn't bound to happen anyways, but she wanted to know she had a purposeful hand in it.

And she was glad. His lips were just as soft as she had thought they were.

***

"I guess we are just waiting for Reiko and Akira."

"Yeah they should have been here by now."

"Ugh, they better not have gotten in trouble on the way here." Ruka looked towards the sliding doors of the hospital and wondered what had happened. "Maybe they walked? Isn't your place kind of close? Though Hime-chan would have to take lots of breaks."

He frowned wondering what happened to them.

"If they did decide to walk, it's no wonder they aren't here yet." Haru muttered, then looked down at Suke. "She always likes to do things the hard way. Kind of like a certain brother of mine."

"I do not. I do whatever is most efficient." There was a slight pause. "Usually. Itai! Haru!"

Haru just chucked as Daisuike rubbed his head where he'd been smacked. "Been wanting to to that for a week now. Just be glad I decided not to punch you."

Ruka rolled his eyes laughing softly at the brothers. It was nice to see them so happy with each other, make him envious but that didn't matter to him. Shaking his head he moved over to sit next to Daisuike.

"Well, whatever the reason is taking them so long we should probably wait. I don't want to get a nasty phone call from Hime-chan and death threats from Akira. I already get the feeling he doesn't want you to go with me for so long." Snaking an arm around Daisuike to pull him closer he smiled, "Guess we'll just have to invite everyone over a lot, ne?"

It would make him really happy to have them all there. It might not be a real family but it was becoming the closest he had ever had.

***

At first Akira wasn't sure if he was dreaming or if Reiko had simply lost her balance and fell forward. The nudge told him something else entirely and he was suddenly a little dizzy, his senses overwhelmed by the feel of Reiko. Unsure at first he decided to hell with it, and kissed her back. If she was going to hit him later it was well worth it.

Reiko blinked in surprised feeling Akira kiss her back. It shocked her and made her extremely happy at the same time. Feeling as if she was floating she shifted her fingers through his hair pulling him just a bit closer as she sat them up ending up sitting on his lap. The least of her worries was that they were in public, all she cared about was that she was kissing Akira. The person she had loved for the longest time and he was kissing her back.

Akira wasn't sure when his fingers had found Reiko's hair but he loved the way it felt sliding through them. He'd always wondered what it would feel like to slide his fingers thought it and it was just as soft and silky as it looked. He finally pulled back slightly, panting as he tried to catch his breath. He blinked a few times looking at her before grinning. He had no idea what to say so he leaned in again and kissed her lightly savoring the way she tasted. Light and sweet and perfect.

Reiko shivered lightly staring at Akira enjoying the feel of him next her, his hand in her hair and the way their breaths mingled when they finally parted once again. Why hadn't she done that sooner? Who would've thought that they both felt the same way yet neither saying a word about it? Maybe they both had the same insecure fears of messing their friendship up.

"I. . . Ano. . ." She looked loss for words and she tilted her head a bit grinning back at him, "That wasn't a fluke right?" Slowly letting her hand fall she rested it against his that was basically supporting them.

"Cause I really hope it wasn't. . ."

"Ano . . . no . . ." Looking at her Akira wasn't quite sure if she was happy or upset. She seemed happy but sometimes it was difficult for him to tell with her. She had kissed him, hadn't she? She wouldn't do that unless she wanted to, right? His brain was still a bit muddled and he hoped he didn't sound stupid.

Reiko's eyes lit up at his answer and she moved just a bit closer to him enjoying the warmth radiating from him. The sky had been dark for a while and she thought it was going to rain. She kind of hoped it did. The idea of running in the rain with Akira was always fun. Removing her hand from on top of his, she reached up touching his cheek lightly.

"I'm really really glad it wasn't a fluke." Reiko could feel her heart pounding against her chest and she wondered briefly if Akira could hear it. Leaning a bit closer she shivered a little feeling his breath against her face, "Because I really-" Reiko jerked back a little, blinking. Something had just hit her face. Something wet. Glancing up she frowned as more drops of rains hit her face.

"Fucking hell." A laugh escaped her as she quickly pulled Akira up. Guess she'd get her wish about running in the rain with Akira. Quickly parting from his side she started running ahead as the rain started to come down in buckets. Turning around she yelled back at him.

"Cause I really like ya Akira!"

Jiro looked over from where he'd sat down across from Ruka and Daisuike as the doors opened. Akira and Reiko were walking in, both of them laughing and completely drenched. Jiro blinked shocked to see them holding hands. That was new, but not entirely unexpected. His next thought was that he hadn't realized it was raining.

"What took the two of you so long?"

Akira's grin was slightly bashful. "Ano . . . we fell?"

"And umm. . . The rain?" Reiko grinned slightly at them glancing at Akira furtively squeezing his hand a bit tighter. It made her happy. He had grabbed her hand this time, no hesitation no skirting around it. The whole thing made her extremely happy.

Ruka laughed as he watched the two of them walk over, looking both a bit embarrassed yet happy. Leaning close to Daisuike he smirked, "I think there might be something else going on, don't you think Ouji-sama?"

Daisuike nodded watching Akira. Akira kept glancing over at Reiko as if making sure she was still there. The whole time he'd known Reiko he'd never seen Akira act quite this familiar with her. Something had changed. For the better it seemed.

"Well, I guess we better go. You two need out of those wet clothes before you end up sick." Daisuike pushed himself to his feet making a face as Jiro reached out to help him, Ruka already having a hand on his arm. "Lay off, jeeze I'm not a complete invalid."

"Yes because walking from the hallway to the lobby didn't tire you out at all right?" He frowned at Daisuike rolling his eyes, "I'm not above carrying you." He smirked seeing the slight horrified look on the other's face. Leaning close he kissed his cheek.

Looking around Reiko smiled happy to see everyone together. It was really nice, things were really falling into place and life couldn't get any better. Squeezing Akira's hand again she moved closer to the group.

"Why don't we go get the kiddies changed and then we have dinner at my place?" Ruka looked around hoping no one had any objections.

"That sounds nice." Jiro nodded as he turned to Haru who just rolled his eyes.

"Cool! We finally get to see your boyfriend's place Suke!" Akira couldn't quite contain the excitement as he brushed his soaked hair back from his face in time to see Daisuike duck his head blushing. He loved making Daisuike blush. There'd never been anything before he could use to make his brother flustered and he wasn't going to waste a chance.

"I hope the room isn't creepy. . ."

"Oi! Hime-chan! None of that!" Ruka was flustered himself. Maybe inviting them over wasn't a good idea.

"Ne! Who's driving us home?"

"You aren't getting my seats- Oh screw it." He couldn't resist the look on Reiko's face. Ruka was afraid he was getting her used to the fast cars. Daisuike would kill him if Reiko started to race, it was far too dangerous. "Get get in the damn car."

"Yay!" Tugging Akira, Reiko ran off for the exit.

"I wonder if we just don't go if they'll wander off on their own. . ." Ruka sighed as he looped an arm around Daisuike's waist walking with him.

Jiro chuckled at Ruka's comment. "Knowing Reiko she'd hunt you down. She's pretty good at it apparently. I'll follow you Ruka, if that is alright."

"Might want to let me drive then, grandpa." Haru snorted. He'd seen Ruka's car and knew there was no way Jiro would ever keep up with him.

"Oi! What the-"

"I want to get there today, Jiro. Just give me the keys."

"Fine." Jiro groused handing over the key.

Daisuike snickered looking over his shoulder at Jiro. Haru really was a better driver and he knew how Ruka drove. Jiro would never be able to keep up. Jiro glared at him but was silent.

Ruka started laughing then glanced over at Haru and Jiro. There was no way they'd ever be able to keep up with him even if Haru drove faster than Jiro. Smirking he looked at Haru.

"I'll make sure to slow down for you alright?" Though Ruka was really itching to race lately. Maybe he could convince Suke to come with him soon. He needed the thrill of the speed and the adrenaline from the danger.

"OI!! Hurry up!" Reiko was bouncing around at the doors to the hospital glaring at them all. Ruka could see Akira standing near her, a lot closer than they used to stand he might add.

"We're comin Hime-chan!"

"Hurry!"

"I'm not gunna drive fast, Hime-chan." Reiko's smile faltered. "Haru and Jiro would never be able to keep up." As they got closer to the door he patted her head. "I'll take you racing sometime later okay?"

"Promise?" She stared up at him with wide eyes and he sucked in a breath. How the hell did she do that? There was no way he could deny her after seeing those large dark eyes pleading up at him.

"Y-yeah. . ."

"Yay!" Ruka shook his head seeing her bounce off again towards the car.

". . . She makes a very formidable opponent."

"Yes she does." Jiro and Daisuike said in unison then looked at each other. Jiro grinned shaking his head.

"She's really smart, makes me wonder why she hangs out with Akira."

"That wasn't very nice Jiro. Besides if she wasn't friends with him then we'd probably have already had him back in the psych ward."

"True."

Ruka didn't comment on the psych ward comment, not wanting to know just yet. He knew they had problems but now he was finally starting to get information and put it all together. He didn't want to admit it but he was starting to get very close to this family and it slightly scared him.

"Come on, let's get the brats changed and get us all fed."

It didn't take long for everyone to get back to the apartment and then head over to Ruka's. Grinning Ruka looked at everyone before he opened the door.

"Sorry it's a bit messy." He was going to need to go clean up the bedroom first. The last thing he wanted was them to see his porn collection. Opening the door he showed them in, grinning a bit.

"Welcome to my house."

Reiko stared in shock. She knew Ruka had money but this place. . .

"It doesn't suit you." She frowned looking at him.

"Yeah this is . . . it reminds me of Chiyo's house." Akira was instantly very uncomfortable. At least everything wasn't white. That helped, but it was still too similar to his mother’s house. He much preferred him and his brother's cramped apartment.

Daisuike winced his fingers tightening slightly on Ruka's arm, trying to be supportive. He had seen the similarities but hadn't thought they might bother Akira. It did have a bit of a cold feel to it, but he knew the bedroom was entirely different.

"Well, Ruka is just staying here because it's his parents place. The style is his step-mother’s."

"Ah, well that explains a lot. It really doesn't look like someplace you would call home, Ruka."

Ruka grimaced at the mention of their mother. It bothered him that his house reminded Akira of that woman. Apparently she was a psychotic bitch and that was the last thing he wanted to do was remind Akira of it. He liked Akira.

"Why don't we stay in my bedroom? Let me just. . . Give me a minute." He gently parted from Daisuike heading to the bedroom to hide the laid out magazines and DVDs. Glancing around once to make sure he didn't forget anything he came back to them.

"I got a table and chairs in the room so it'd work for dinner."

Reiko touched Akira's arm gently squeezing his hand softly. Leaning close she whispered, "But it's not Chiyo's. It's Ruka's, just remember that." Looking at Ruka she tried to smile, "Sounds good. What are we having?"

"Mmm, what do you guys want to eat?"

"Chinese!" Akira beat everyone else to it and grinned hearing Jiro groan.

"Oh come on!" Haru glared at him. "You get Chinese every time we go out."

"I do not."

Daisuike just shook his head following Ruka into the bedroom. It gave him a thrill to think that his brothers were going to be in the same room where he'd been . . . better not think about that. Or look at the bed actually. He didn't want to embarrass himself.

"How about this? We'll get Akira and whoever else wants, Chinese. The rest of us will get something else. Let me grab my menu." Walking around the room he grabbed the large menu and spread it on the table in the corner of the room near one of the windows. A sudden perverted thought came to mind and he glanced at Daisuike for a moment before looking away. That was definitely a visual he wanted to see acted out so it wasn't just in his mind.

Shaking his head he smiled at everyone. "Alright we got: Chinese, Italian, Japanese, American, Mexican, French, Latin, Middle Eastern and Asian. What would you guys like? I suggest Japanese or Italian personally though I can say the rest are good as well."

Reiko blinked staring at the room for a moment. It was definitely like Ruka and had a masculine yet homey feel to it. That's when she spotted something and she quickly looked away. She'd have to either discreetly tell Ruka or push them under the pillow more. Handcuffs were definitely not usually on beds. At least normally.

"I vote Italian."

"Italian does sound good." Jiro spoke up Haru nodding. Daisuike shrugged and just nodded. He was trying to suppress the tingling sensation that had sent chills through him with the way Ruka had looked at him. How could a look make him feel like that? He swayed just a bit and decided sitting down might be a good idea. The bed was closest.

Akira frowned slightly as Daisuike sat down. He seemed a bit pale. Maybe they were letting him do too much. It hurt him to see his once strong older brother barely able to stand for any length of time anymore.

Ruka picked up the phone dialing for the restaurants. "I'll just order everything since it'll take too long for you guys to pick it all out and for you to tell me. You can take it home what's left." Stepping around he spoke into the phone quietly pacing.

Reiko took the opportunity to walk to Daisuike and discreetly shove the handcuffs under the pillow more. She did not want to think about Suke and Ruka using them. It gave her an odd feeling inside.

"You okay?" She smiled at him patting his leg gently, "You're doing a lot of walking lately, so just relax. Okay?"

"I'm fine. It's just annoying how tired I get now. The doctors told me to expect it, but it's frustrating." He looked down then back up at her. "I'm really glad you and Akira are alright. I was going crazy having to be at the hospital instead of helping."

"You couldn't help, Suke." Haru sat down in one of the chairs looking at him. "You would have died trying and then where would Akira have been."

Akira fidgeted. "I don't want to talk about it guys."

Reiko shuddered, "I-I gotta second that. . ." Looking down she tugged at her sleeve trying to push the memory of everything from Akira's kidnapping, to being tied to that chair, to having Hayate bleeding in her arms, away from the front of her mind. Just the damn threat of being tortured had freaked her out and still did. She knew what he could've done and had done and that was something that terrified her.

Rubbing at her wrists she stared down at them. The bruises had started to fade completely, leaving behind some yellow spots. Shaking her head she stood up heading towards the front door.

"I need air. . ."

Ruka snapped the phone shut blinking then watched Reiko walking off. Frowning he heard the front door shut and he glanced towards Akira.

"Should we leave her alone for a while?" He kind of wanted to know what exactly happened back inside that building but part of him didn't.

"Ano . . . I'll go check on her." Akira followed her out, not wanting her to be alone. They'd been through so much together the last few weeks and he wasn't about to let her be by herself right now.

Daisuike sighed and laid back on the bed. His muscles were trembling with fatigue, but he was too hungry to sleep. That and now that he was out of the hospital and didn't have the sedatives to help numb everything, the unsettled feeling was growing worse. He was glad Akira had asked them to stop talking. He didn't know that he could handle thinking about it either.


Reiko settled against the roof door's wall sliding down. She had heard Akira not too far behind her, but she needed to breathe. It was definitely getting too much for her. Running a hand through her hair she gripped it sliding down and collapsing to sit. Feeling nauseated she wished all it was just a bad bad dream.


Ruka sighed and walked over to Daisuike shifting onto the bed and picking him up. At first he started to protest but Ruka made a noise in the back of this throat that seemed to silence all protesting from his Ouji-sama.

"Just rest until the food gets here." Laying him against the pillows he smiled stroking his hair. "Hold on a moment." Getting up he walked to the kitchen coming back with a glass of water. Reaching into his pockets he pulled a pill bottle out and dropped a pill into his hand.

"Take this. It'll help with the pain. No, don't argue. I can see in your eyes that you're in pain."

Jiro watched as Daisuike obediently took the pills. He knew that at home it would have been a chore to even get him to consider taking them. Ruka seemed to quell Daisuike's need to always appear the tough yakuza he was around everyone else. It was a very good thing. Jiro didn't want a fight on his hands and it seemed that Ruka was just what Daisuike needed. He hoped the next few weeks went well for everyone involved.

Reiko sighed a bit just leaning against Akira who had sat next to her. The silence was nice and it was comforting to her. Lacing her hand into his she sighed deeper before looking at him.

"I'm ready to go back. Thank you." Nervously she leaned forward kissing his cheek lightly before getting up pulling him with her. Heading back into the large apartment she saw the food had arrived and she frowned seeing them waiting for them to start eating.

"You could've started without us."

"Naw, it's a family meal. Ne?" He smiled at Daisuike who he had made lay in bed. There weren't enough chairs anyways and Ruka just liked the idea of Suke in his bed.

Daisuike ate all he could, but he frankly didn't care for the taste of several of the dishes. He was glad Ruka had bought so much. They'd have plenty of left overs at least. He'd make Akira take home the Chinese since it seemed to be about the only thing he would eat anymore.

He set the plate on the nightstand to tired to bother getting up and putting it in the kitchen. He'd do the dishes in the morning. Ruka couldn't stop him from doing that. He had to move around some at least. Dishes he could do, though it was rather humiliating to think that would probably tire him out too.

Ruka smiled at Suke. He'd get him to eat later but he looked exhausted. Taking the plates he moved to the kitchen putting them in the sink to soak for a while. He'd do it once Suke was asleep otherwise the idiot would try and do them. If he tried to argue about how he was supposed to be moving about and getting activity he'd just remind him he knew of a better one.

Reiko looked at Akira as she passed him some soup. He hadn't eaten much at all and she wasn't about to let him not eat enough right now.

"How do you guys like it?"

"It's good." Reiko smiled as she took a bit of the soup she had just passed Akira.

Akira frowned at the soup. She'd done this too him before too. He took small sips of it. Even as good as it was he couldn't afford to eat too much of it. He glanced up at Daisuike but his eyes were closed. Akira sighed just happy that he was alive at least. Things could have turned out so very differently and that though still scared him. He would never, as long as he lived, get the picture of a blood covered Daisuike out of his head.

Jiro finished his food and seeing that it looked as though Daisuike had fallen asleep gestured to Haru. Haru nodded and gathered up the plates taking them to the kitchen. He quickly and efficiently put all the food away and started cleaning the dishes.

Jiro got to his feet. "Thank you very much for dinner Ruka, but I need to get going. Haru's got work and Akira has school in the morning."

Reiko frowned at Akira then pinched him frowning even more as she moved away to help Haru. She hated that he refused to eat so often, or would barely eat at all. Maybe she'd talk to Hasu to get him to give her food ideas that would get Akira to eat more. Or maybe Hitomi could teach her to cook. Then Akira would eat. It was really beginning to worry her how little he ate.

Ruka smiled softly at Jiro, "Not a problem. Thank you again for letting Daisuike stay with me. I promise to take care of him." He gave a curt bow smiling still. Truly he was thankful Jiro hadn't minded. He wasn't sure what they would've done if he had protested.

"Come by any time you guys want. We'll make sure you guys come at least 4 or so times a week for dinner. It was too much fun to not do again." That and he needed to change his apartment's looks. It bothered the family too much.

"I will hold you to that Ruka." Jiro bowed back, something he hadn't done to anyone but his father for a very long time. "I will probably call in the morning to check on him."

Akira rubbed the spot where Reiko had pinched him frowning. What was her problem? He looked up at Ruka. "Reiko and I can come by after school. It's not that far. Oh, and if there is anything he forgot just let me know and I'll get it for you. I know where all of his stuff is."

Ruka nodded slowly, "Thank you. I'll talk to you guys later. I'm gunna go crash soon myself. Been up way too long as it is." He wouldn't admit it but he barely slept at the hospital. The nurses would wake him up every time they came in and they came in frequently.

Peeking her head in Reiko waved, "Bye Ruka."

"Bye Hime-chan. Be good." Reiko just rolled her eyes heading out with Haru.

Ruka smirked and then walked over to Akira putting a hand on his shoulder leaning close, "Just be careful and use protection." He patted Akira's shoulder laughing at the strange expression on Akira's face that was a mix of horror and something else he couldn't quite tell.

"Bye guys."

***

You really are stupid Kobayashi. I'm going to do Jiro a favor getting rid of you. It's your own fault this is happening. Daisuike failed trying anything he could to get away. That voice echoed around him in the darkness chilling him to the bone. He tried to run, but couldn't move, someone was holding him down. He couldn't let them find out. He had to be strong and not give in. He had to be. The voice changed, became high pitched, his mother's voice.

You stupid little shit! You can't do anything right! It’s your fault I have to do this. If you weren’t so stupid I wouldn’t have to punish you. Pain. Agonizing, mind numbing pain. Behind it was the laughter, that hideous mocking laughter that hurt worse than any physical pain.

His own screaming woke him and he bolted up. He stumbled out of the bed and somehow managed to make it to the bathroom. He didn't want to think, didn't want to remember, but the voices kept repeating in his head. Taunting him.