Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It was a matter of time before everything descended, it was a matter of time before Aster found out about the affair, it was a matter of time where, eventually, Ren would leave Aster for another with no absolute reason given, leaving the star in a pool of confusion, despair, and pain.

Tears slowly fell from his eyes as he leaned against the door of the room he once shared with his lover. Flashbacks of old memories came into his mind, the ones where he was held in Ren’s arms as they slept, where they would just cuddle in bed watching their favorite anime series, the ones where he and Ren just lay there talking about the future, a future where he envisioned them together, but then, in the end, it was just all imaginations or plans that will never happen because Ren had a change of heart.

Negative thoughts continuously surrounded his head, who was to blame for the downfall of their relationship? Was it him? Was it Ren? Was the affair the reason? Or was it his inability to fulfill even the basic things to keep Ren by his side? Which ever one it was, it just increased the feelings he has going on right now.

I liked your eyes, you looked away when you pretended to care.

Memories of high school where Aster really thought that Ren genuinely cared for him whenever he had his bad moments. He vaguely remembered that one time where Ren gave him his jacket while he cried as he remembered his deceased mother, he would feel shy and warm due to Ren’s actions only to know later that Kyo requested for Ren to do so. Which what made him a bit upset since he didn’t do it on his own will, but still happy because he still did it.

It was purely Aster trying to assure himself that Ren cared for him.

I liked the dimples on the corners of the smile that you wear.

Ren is generally a happy guy; he would laugh at the smallest things and would constantly wear a big smile on his face wherever he went. Aster fell in love with that Ren and all his other versions. He loved it the most whenever Ren was happy.

You wore them with him, and I knew. I was scared.

Aster noticed that Ren was seemingly happier around Kyo than with him. It was something that he couldn’t fully accept, nor it was something he could also acknowledge due to him and Kyo being best friends. He didn’t want to feel jealous over his crush liking his best friend more, it would be inconsiderate of him. So, coming up with nothing, he left the situation as is, not like he had anything he could do. Ren wasn’t his, what right did he have?

I let myself fall deeper, was I even prepared?

Eventually, Aster and Ren became a couple. It took a while though, and despite a lot of warnings from both Aia and Scarle, Aster took the risk and let his love take control of his actions. To his surprise, he succeeded. But was it worth it?

Now looking back at those memories, did he make the right choice of pursuing Ren? The guy who rarely showed affection and hasn’t even vocalized how much he loved Aster?

I loved you every minute, every second.

Loved you everywhere and at any moment.

It was the realest thing Aster ever felt apart from the feelings he had when his mother was still alive. It was something so strong that he wanted to keep it forever. It got to the point where he would do anything just to keep Ren by his side, invalidating his own self and his own feelings and prioritizing Ren’s. He was desperate for this type of love, and it was what caused his downfall.

Always and forever was only for a moment

Because I was not the one, and I don’t know how.

Even something so beautiful can end so tragically. It was like a bad ending on a Disney movie where the prince didn’t want the Princess, the Prince wanted something more that the Princess was unable to give. It was a matter of time before hearts were shattered, while one just left with no intention of looking back.

Staring at the dull walls of the room, Aster didn’t know what to do. It was like all his energy was taken from his body and he felt like he had no purpose of living anymore. It sounds pitiful, him depending on someone else for his own happiness, purpose, and motivation was a desperate and bad move on his part but he lost the one who meant the most to him, he craved for love, and when he even got just a crumb of it, he wanted to keep it until the end.

Loud knocks can be heard inside the lonely apartment. Aster was still in a state where he couldn’t even get up. Thinking that the person knocking would go away eventually, he just let them do whatever they wanted. Not like it’d matter to him anyways.

He was in the living room, facing the window and away from the door. He then heard the door open, and several footsteps were heard before something dropped and he was immediately enclosed in a tight hug. Aster looked at the person to see Shoto hugging him tightly.

“Sho…” Aster’s voice broke before another wave of tears started flowing down once again.

To console the star, Shoto kissed him on the forehead and caressed his back and stroked his hair. He was aware of what had occurred between him and Ren, but he couldn't express his rage at Ren, not now when Aster’s in a state where he really needed someone to lean on.

Vox picked up the plastic bag that Shoto dropped and placed it on the coffee table right in front of the two purple boys. His eyes were filled with pity for the star and a deep-rooted anger grew for Ren. He was close friends with the alien, but what he did was unjust and low, he didn’t deserve Aster at all for what he had done.

The couple made eye contact. Not exactly knowing how to help the star in his current situation, all they know is that they can’t leave Aster alone now as he was not in a good state, mirroring the apartment as well. There were clothes on the floor, assuming some of it was Ren’s, some trash was scattered, it was just a mess.

Aster continued to sob in Shoto’s arms. Thinking about all the things he could’ve done wrong that made Ren yearn for another. But nothing came to mind, it was as if telling him that he was never in the wrong, yet he still felt that way, no matter what he did.

Thought I loved you so, why did you go?

Chapter Text

“Mhmm… cry it out, babe.” Shoto encouraged Aster to continue to sob in his arms. He wanted the star to let all the painful emotions out through his tears so he could experience a bit of relief from the pain he was currently experiencing. Vox sat at the other end of the sofa, not really saying anything, he knew Aster didn’t need someone to talk about the situation at hand, he just needed someone’s presence, so he didn’t feel as alone. 

The silence was deafening yet he would probably feel worse if the couple didn’t come to check up on him. It was something he greatly appreciated. 

"I'm sorry, Aster. I should've said something..." Vox began once Aster calmed down, unsure of how to explain himself. He wasn't directly engaged in the couple's current situation, but he was good friends with Ren, and he did notice Ren's behavior was out of the ordinary, but he never questioned it.

Aster nodded, sniffling.

"I-it’s okay. It’s not your fault, Vox. " Hugging Shoto tighter. Shoto caressed Aster's hair, not really knowing what to say. Still very much curious about what had conspired between him and the alien prince. Making eye contact with Vox, Shoto knew that his demon partner had an idea on what happened but didn’t ask.

Once Aster was asleep, Shoto closed the door of the bedroom and motioned Vox to follow him to the kitchen where it was less messy since it was barely used after Ren left. Sitting down on one of the chairs of the dining table, Vox stared up at his partner who was busy making tea for both, Shoto knowing the place like the back of his hand as he came by often whenever Ren was at work to hang out with Aster. A million thoughts circled through his mind, not really knowing which topic to start with. 

“I’d never do that to you.” Vox started, wanting to reassure his demon slayer. Shoto let out a small smile, slightly nodding. He was aware that Vox wouldn’t betray him, not after the millions of death threats he and Uki gave Vox when they started dating. 

“I know, darling.” Placing two hot mugs on the table, Shoto looked up into the golden eyes of his demon and saw so much sincerity and love in them that it made him a bit flustered. Shoto coughed a bit to hide his flushed face before eventually falling into a comfortable silence. It was one of the things he loved about being with Vox, they can just spend time without talking and it would be the most treasured moments they have with each other.

Though the silence didn’t last for as long as Shoto expected.

“I saw Ren several times, going out of the bar, I never bothered to approach him as I wanted to go home quicker, but it was rather suspicious that he was going there so often.” Vox took a sip of his tea, making an appreciative sigh because he loves how Shoto makes his tea, a perfect mix of milk, tea, sugar, and love from his partner.

“He did go to bars before that, it would usually an invite from our other co-workers or one of the other boys but lately, he just went there every day with no notice. There was this one time where I saw him with another but never really thought it was an affair since I left right before they did anything unethical.” Shoto just held his warm mug that was slowly getting cooler, processing all the information that was given. He can’t exactly recall a moment where the two fought, or Aster just didn’t bother to tell him about his personal problems. Shoto understood that he respected Aster’s privacy a lot, but he wanted the star to rely on his friends a bit more. 

Heaving another sigh, Shoto just slumped on the chair. Moving on was always a difficult feat, but it wasn’t impossible. Though in Aster’s situation, he wouldn’t know where or how to stop a love that he had clung onto, whether it was due to trauma, pain, or previous relationships. He gave Ren everything, yet Ren left him with nothing. How can he start afresh when he has nothing left in his heart? The only emotions that left were wrath, grief, and emptiness. It was sad really, Shoto was also a witness on how Aster basically dedicated his entire being to serving and loving Ren his entire life, not expecting nor because some things can come to an end, whether it may be good or bad, they just end at times where we least expect it. 

Shoto was deep in thought when he felt two arms wrapping around his upper torso, he leaned into the person, clearly knowing who it was and slowly relaxed. Vox gave Shoto several kisses on his temple as he caressed his lover’s purple hair.

“Don’t stress yourself too much, baby.” Shoto just nodded before snuggling against his lover.

A few minutes passed and they heard a knock on the door. Aster was asleep so Vox decided to open the door, seemingly knowing who it was outside. Shoto just tilted his head in confusion as his partner didn’t mention anything but let Vox open the door instead while he cleaned up a bit in the kitchen.

He heard a door open and then running footsteps before another purple-headed boy appeared by the kitchen entrance. There stood Uki, a bit flushed from rushing to Aster’s house, looking worried and angry. Uki knew everything that had happened, maybe it was his Psychic powers? Or the fact that his boyfriend/soulmate had a lot of connections? Well, it was both. Might as well get additional information rather than just get the summary of it.

“Where’s Aster?”, “Asleep, better not wake him up. He needs to rest.” Vox interjected, as Fulgur followed suit. 

Uki let out a huff before approaching Shoto and giving him a quick kiss on the cheek then proceeding to sit on the chair where Shoto previously sat. 

“That fucking bitch had the audacity, the audacity , to fucking cheat on Aster.” Uki said, enraged about Ren’s actions. “I can’t even believe that I actually thought he was the best thing that has ever happened in Aster’s life.” 

“Uki.” Fulgur, who took a chair and placed it beside Uki, said sternly which made Uki look at his partner bewildered. Cheeks a bit flushed from how he said it, but still in complete disbelief. 

“Fuu-fuu chan?” Confused, he looked at his partner, expecting an explanation for the sudden outburst.

“You’re not cursing him enough.” Fulgur said smugly. He didn’t exactly like Ren, he felt like something was off with the alien prince from the first time they met but he didn’t really interact with him that much, so it didn’t bother him. And, if Uki liked a person, then he was okay with them. 

Uki just stared at his lover for a bit before letting out a laugh. “This is one of the reasons I love you.” Kissing Fulgur’s cheek, Fulgur then wrapped his arms around his own purple boy before kissing his temple. Shoto and Vox just looked at the Psyborg couple with a weird look on their faces, seemingly disturbed by what they are currently witnessing in front of them. 

They heard small footsteps coming towards the kitchen, Uki immediately leaped from Fulgur’s arms and ran to the newly awakened Aster who was confused on why Uki was in his home. The rest followed suit. 

“Astie, you don’t deserve that, he doesn’t deserve you.” Uki said angrily. Aster just pat Uki’s back in return, knowing he can’t see the sad smile that was etched onto his face.

The star was grateful that his friends didn’t really pry with the situation as he expected. He kind of expected that they would start asking but they probably knew the situation. 

“Hey, you know what, Astie? Let’s go out.” 

“W-what? Uki, the apartments a mess, I need to clean it, I need to also throw some of his stuff away just for the sake of my sanity, then I need to-”

“Aster, it’s fine. Vox and I will handle it. You need to go out.” Fulgur interjected. Knowing that the star would probably just make a million excuses to not go and if he didn’t, he’d probably just go back to his previous state and not get much done at all.

“See? They can do it. Not that I completely trust them to not make a bigger mess, but they are capable of it. I think.” Shoto added, tone mainly directed at Vox who tends to be quite messy at times.

“Shoto, darling. I literally clean more than you.” Vox smirked, knowing he was right. Shoto was messier than him, to say the least. Let’s just say he’s left a lot of things out and tends to forget to put them away until Vox discovers them.

“Shut up.” Shoto said flustered, not really wanting to relive his embarrassing moments.

“Astie, please?” Uki said, his tone was very expectant for a yes. Aster just let out another sigh, nodding, knowing he can’t ever say no to Uki and he knew deep within that he really needed something to distract him even if it's just for a few hours. Uki let out a cheer before dragging Aster back to his room to get him changed.

They spent the day  exploring the city, luckily Uki knew how to drive since Shoto is someone you can never trust behind the wheel. They went for a bit of clothes shopping, which eventually ended in a lingerie shop where Uki went on a discussion on what color makes their partner even more turned on. Shoto was just standing there flustered at how Uki was so open about his sex life with Fulgur. Aster in the same state, just coughing a bit from how indecorous the topic was. Eventually the other two purple boys made Uki stop and leave the lingerie store after paying for his stuff. 

Their day ended in a coffee shop near Aster’s apartment. They left their stuff at Uki’s car that was parked by the apartment. 

“... she was such a bitch towards it and I went, girl, this ain’t about you so sit the fuck down.” Uki rambled on, talking about his beef with a girl that was at his bar the other night. Shoto just nodded, not really understanding his friend but wanted to support him still. Aster just stared out the window, watching the cars go by.

His thoughts were all jumbled, but he didn’t want to seem sad around his friends who made an effort to take him out just so he could enjoy the day. 

“Uhm, sir?” Aster turned his head around to see a white-haired good looking man who seemed to be a waiter in this cafe judging from his uniform. He had a tray on his hand, as he lowered it down and placed his coffee on the table along with a cookie.

“Your coffee sir.” The white-haired man gave him a sweet smile which made him flustered. He immediately looked down at his drink and noticed a small plate of cookies beside it. Eyebrows furrowed, he looked back up at the handsome man.

“I didn’t order cookies…?” 

“It’s on the house, sir.” The waiter then gave him a wink before turning around to serve the other customers leaving Aster a flustered mess. 

Aster then glanced at his two other companions who seemed to have gone quiet, and they were looking at him with a smug look on their faces. He raised a brow at their ridiculousness which earned him a laugh from the two who seemed to be happy that his attention wasn’t on Ren or his former relationship with the alien prince. Eventually Uki started a topic which interested the other two and that’s how they spent their day.

From afar you can see the white-haired male staring at the laughing star with so much fondness in his eyes.

Chapter Text

Ren was in a bar, taking another shot. He appeared to be content, or perhaps we should say that he was enjoying his newfound independence. What drove Ren to cheat on Aster? Well, let’s just say that not everyone is satisfied with the life they have or the people they are with. It was kind of a waste how he traded Aster with someone else, someone who most likely will just be there to fill his sexual desires but he claimed he wanted and needed it. 

If Ren was being honest, he felt suffocated when he was with Aster.

He did truly love Aster, we can’t determine if he does really know what the meaning of love is. But to him, Aster was becoming too much. He constantly got jealous, whenever he would talk to others. Sure, he’d admit, he tended to be a bit flirty around other people, but that wasn’t his fault. He would then lecture him a lot whenever he came home at an inconvenient time and smelled like alcohol, and wouldn’t even let him fulfill his needs. He wasn’t the type to force someone to do something without their consent, but he was frustrated over the fact that Aster, despite being head-over-heels with him, wouldn’t satisfy him on a daily basis. 

And yes, he did cheat on Aster with a chance hookup he had, using that hookup as the justification for his entire separation from Aster. Was he content with his choice? He holds this opinion. He didn't really want to be in a relationship where he was constantly doubting their partner and where his basic needs were not being met.

Kissing the neck of his paramour, he heard his little giggles. Unsatisfied with what he received, he turned his head and gave him a long deep kiss. Hands trailing unto private areas as they made out by the bar counter. 

Tongues intertwined as they slowly entered the realm of lust and pleasure where no rationality can be found as they ignore the world around them. Not caring if they are right or wrong, not caring if they hurt anyone in the process. 

Being overcome by such a feeling is so frequent in this cruel world that rarely does anything positive result from it. He allowed this emotion or sensation to rule him to the point where he damaged his friendships, his relationships, and eventually himself. Ren nonetheless persisted in his conduct toward the boy, believing that he needed and wanted it. It was no longer an argument between it being wrong or unethical. Ren believed it to be right since it felt good to him. Therefore, he was not punished for cheating on Aster; in fact, you could argue that he rather enjoyed the experience.

You can call him insensitive or selfish, but he has been with Aster for years now. He wanted it for himself and not considering what his partner felt because he stuck by his side for years, it was about time he get his fair share. 

As he continued his escapades on his newly acquired bed warmer, he heard the bar door open. He stopped what he’s doing and looked over the entrance, his eyes then widened, he saw Scarle and Aia looking for him, anger coating their eyes. He quickly left the boy’s side and approached the two girls.

Assuming they might listen to his reasoning. When their eyes landed on Ren but before he could even react or call out the two, Aia immediately ran and tackled him onto the ground.

“REN. HOW COULD YOU?!” Aia screamed. The noise was so loud it made the other people inside the establishment alarmed and look at what was happening in front of their eyes.

Eyes widened in surprise, Aia was usually the calm one so Ren didn't expect this from her at all.

“Aia wait let me expla-” Before he could even finish, Aia immediately cut him off, not leaving any room for his bullshits. 

“YOUR EXPLANATION WON’T MAKE A FUCKING DIFFERENCE! YOU CHEATED ON ASTER!” Aia gave Ren a hard punch before Scarle had to pull Aia back as to calm her down, she looked at Ren with eyes full of hatred. Gasps were heard from the background as people observed the scene in front of them, not really expecting this to happen today of all days. 

“Why the fuck would you do it Ren? We trusted you.” Scarle said, words laced with anger and disappointment. Ren was such a good person and a good friend, why did he end up like this? Scarle just sighed, holding Aia’s tighter.

“He was suffocating me, okay?! I didn’t like it! So I-” Ren argued. 

“So you think cheating on him instead of talking things out was the better solution?!” Her eyebrows furrowed as she glared at Ren, not really wanting to deal with his bullshit reasons. There were a million ways to fix whatever their problems yet he chose the option where he had to hurt Aster in the process.

“Well I-.”

“Save it.” Scarle said sternly, looking disappointed at her friend once again. She never thought Ren would even have the guts to do this, but seeing it now, she guessed that even the most trusted person can hurt you so much. “That man gave you everything. He took care of you, he supported, he LOVED you, and you decided to throw all that away just for something you supposedly felt suffocated by? How do you think Aster feels? Every day he would just talk about how he felt so insecure, wanting to make sure that all his actions were approved by you. He didn’t want to give you a reason to leave because that’s how much he loved you. You drew the line several times, and sure, Aster called you out on it but did you ever listen? No. That’s why he stayed quiet just to not argue with you. You had one of the best person to love you yet you threw him away because he didn’t want to fuck you? Are you that petty now?” Silence enveloped the whole area. Ren couldn’t really believe or process what Scarle had said to him. It contradicted all that he thought was right but he didn’t want to accept it. Aster wasn’t making him happy, why would he stay with someone who doesn’t even make him happy anymore? And yes, he should’ve broken up with Aster instead of cheating on him but he let Lust take control of him and his actions.

“I don’t think we can talk to you anymore after this.” That was the last thing Scarle said before leaving the bar with a still raging Aia as to not cause any further drama in the establishment and in the public. The customers looked at Ren who was being coddled by his supposed partner for the night, trying to help him stnad.

Ren didn’t know what exactly happened or what Aster told the two girls, all he knew was that he did what he had to do and that’s it. He lost all sense of what was right or wrong, losing most of the things he used treasure.

Chapter Text

The stars twinkled as the commotion on the streets died down, some stores closed for the day, others prepared for the midnight opening times, and lamps began illuminating the roads to help persons walking or traveling in the dark. It was almost 7PM when Kyo woke up due to the noise alerts on his phone. He stayed up way to late playing a game with a few friends, completely losing track of time and eventually calling it a night at exactly 5AM in the morning.

Rubbing the sleep off his eyes, he tries to look for his phone with his free hand. Wondering why there were so many notifications on a weekday as everyone was supposedly busy with the work they were usually swamped with. He unlocked his phone and scrolled through the thousands of notifications he had received in the past few hours but eventually stopping at the unread messages Aia sent.

Aia wasn’t really the type to text Kyo at a random, usually they’d just converse in their groupchat as most of the time whatever Aia’s concerns was usually involved everyone or everyone wanted to be involved. So, her, sending a direct message to Kyo was not as often.

Aia : Kyo? I know you’re asleep. Text me back when you wake up.

Aia : Ren fucking cheated on Aster, Kyo. Ren broke it off with Aster this morning and Aster really needs us right now. Vox, Shoto, Uki, and Fulgur went to his place first since Scarle and I were about 2 hours away. I believe that Shoto and Uki took Aster out to clear his head.

Aia : I still don’t get it. If Ren wasn’t happy or satisfied with one, he should’ve broken it off with Aster first before he cheated.

Aia : Anyways, I’ll tell you all the details when you get here. If you’re reading these, we plan to meet at Aster’s place, so just go there.

Shocked was an understatement to what Kyo was feeling right now. It was as if cold water was directly poured onto him.

Ren was someone he had gotten close to during high school, and despite his constant advances accompanied with Kyo’s constant rejection, he was overall a good person. He cared for everyone in the group, made sure they were safe, they ate something, they were hydrated. So, him cheating on Aster was like dropping big bomb on Kyo.

If he was being honest, he cared for Aster more than Ren. Aster is a vulnerable person, he gets emotional quickly, and despite the facade he puts up in public, he's very sensitive to a lot of things that's why Kyo took in the role of being someone to also protect the star. When Ren and Aster announced their relationship, he felt relief because he knew he could trust Ren with Aster. Yet this happened.

Everything he thought he knew about the alien prince went downhill quicker than you'd expect, it was as if he never even knew Ren in the first place. Disappointment and Rage was what fueled Kyo now. He immediately got up and got dressed. Texting Ren before he left.

Kyo : Ren, we need to fucking talk.

-

Locating where Ren was wasn’t hard. There was only 1 bar in the area where he and Aster resided, and considering that he didn’t have a car yet, it was a 100% possibility that he was there. His suspicions were proven correct when the door of the bar opened and out came Ren who was flushed with an unknown boy on his side, probably his toy for the night. Ren was laughing and flirting with the brunette on his arms. Seemingly unaffected or unbothered of what his actions resulted too.

Kyo furrowed his eyebrows and stood in front of the two, looking at both with cold, dead eyes. Still in a bit of disbelief but his mind was clouded in anger and his only thought was to give Ren a piece of his mind.

“K-kyo?” Ren was shocked, not entirely expecting his friend to be there. The place was a bit secluded and Kyo wasn’t really the type to go out at night.

Then, a loud thud can be heard on the streets which was the result of Kyo giving Ren a good punch on his face. It was what he deserved anyway.

“OW! KYO?!” Ren exclaimed as he held his now bruised cheek. The brunette he was with immediately crouched down to aid the alien prince.

“I FUCKING TRUSTED YOU, REN!” Kyo said, full of anger.

"I trusted you to take care of Aster. To give him the love he needed, to be there for him whenever we weren't yet you decided to go and pull this fucking stunt?!" Kyo then grabbed Ren's collar and looked him directly into his eyes.

“You don’t deserve shit after what you’ve done.” Throwing Ren onto the ground, he gave him one last cold before turning around and never looking back, indicating that he ended their bond, the friendship that they've had for years.

-

When the trio reached Aster’s apartment, there was a little fear in them as they could hear some noises inside the apartment. Indicating that the LAM brothers probably invited more people to help them “clean” the apartment, the trio silently prayed that the Apartment was intact and not a chaotic mess.

Slowly opening the door, Aster was immediately smashed with hugs. Looking at each one who hugged him he realized it was Scarle and Mari squeezing him as tight as they could.

“H-hey, c-can’t b-breathe.” Pretending not to hear Aster, they just squeezed him harder. He looked at Aia for help, but then he saw the sad look in her eyes.

“Aster…” Aster just smiled at her.

“I’ll be fine Aia.” He assured her, and probably himself as well. He knew he was going to be okay, he had friends who were more than willing to help in his situation.

"I never expected Ren to act like that at all, I'm sorry Aster." Scarle said with a frown as she released Aster from the hug. Aster just replied to her with a small smile, not knowing how to reply to that statement and just wanting to avoid the topic all together.

"Aster, don't worry, we are all here for you," A loud voice said from behind Aia said,

Aster looked up to see Luca smiling brightly at him, which made him feel a bit better, then he looked around to see all Luxiem Corp. and Noctyx Agency sitting in his living room giving him comforting smile. Aster felt a bit overwhelmed but nevertheless he was filled with happiness, these people were the friend's he treasured so much and he was grateful that they were there when he needed them.

As the purple-headed trio with the girls walked to the living room, a loud frantic knock was heard from the door.

Aster opened it to reveal Kyo who looked disheveled, he was looking down as he tried to catch his breath as he ran all the way to his apartment.

"Kyo..."

"Aster."

Kyo immediately hugged Aster, it felt familiar, comforting, warm and suddenly all the leftover emotions overflowed inside him and that's when Aster brokedown once again. The tears flowed endlessdly as Kyo held the broken star in his arms.

Chapter Text

“... thanks, Kyo.” Aster said shyly as he detached himself from Kyo. It was already 1AM and the others decided to call it a night. The only one who stayed was PsyBorg and Scarle who were occupying the 2 guest rooms in the apartment, then calling an early night; Scarle was tired since she travelled almost 2 hours away and Uki was a bit drained from socializing and needed to rest. Kyo was going back home but he decided to head out later as he didn’t want to leave Aster just yet. 

Both groups didn’t mention anything about the situation once Kyo came. It was due to the fact that they didn’t want to make the star upset again.

The living room was clean, surprisingly. The 2 LAM Brothers really did keep their word of cleaning the place. There was a large black garbage bag in his room, consisting of Ren’s stuff which the brothers organized. It was like a bag full of memories, of broken promises and lies. He was reluctant to throw it away but one step to moving on is throwing away all the things that could remind you of the pain that you experienced.

“You don’t need to thank me, I did what was right.” Kyo smiled at Aster who was still shy. He told Aster earlier on what had occurred between him and Ren before he came to the star’s apartment, since Aster noticed that his knuckles were red once Kyo sat himself on the couch. Kyo expressed that he felt dismayed towards the alien prince, it was as if he broke the bond between them as friends. Even if they were friends, he wouldn’t stand for something so wrong.

Aster held Kyo's hand, entwined their fingers, and smiled comfortingly as he took note of his altered manner. Kyo smiled at the endearing attempt Aster made to calm him down. Aster blushed as Kyo gave him a kiss on the forehead,  he was still getting used to how sweet Kyo could be towards him. He silently took Aster's hand and dragged him to the rooftop of his apartment building because he didn't really want to go home just yet. He had been there several times so he knew where he was heading.

“What are your plans now?” Opening the door to the rooftop, Aster walked out and was amazed at how pretty the skies were, it was filled with so many stars that it comforted him so much.

“Honestly? I don’t know.” Silence enveloped the two boys, Aster’s eyes were stuck staring at the stars, not noticing the loving, sad gaze the blue-headed boy gave him. Yes, Kyo was in love with Aster. He wasn’t afraid to admit it to himself. But admitting it to Aster? That’s where his fears start growing. He has always loved the star but his heart was owned by someone else, and instead of ruining the friendship between them he stayed silent and supported the star from afar.

If he’s happy, then I’m happy.

It was all that mattered to Kyo. Hence why he was filled with so much anger when one of the people he truly trusted hurt the guy he’s been in love with for years. It was as if all the pain he went through, the sacrifices he made just to keep Aster happy all went down the drain. If only he were braver, if only he was the type to take risks when it comes to love, if only Aster was his, then he wouldn’t be hurting right now. 

Did he see their breakup as an opportunity to make the star his? No. Because he knew that no matter what Aster showed on the outside, he was still hurting. He needed time to heal from everything especially when he dedicated most of his life into loving a man who couldn’t even keep him. Honestly, he was ready to be a rebound for the star, he loved him so much that he didn’t care if he got used by Aster, but Aster wasn’t the type of person, never was and never will be. So he decided to settle by supporting whatever decision Aster makes from here, it was the least he could do.

“Moving on won’t be easy but I think I’ll be okay.” Aster said, breaking the silence, as he looked back at Kyo who snapped out of his thoughts at the same moment. 

"I know. But if you ever need help…” Kyo said as he tucked a stray hair behind the star's ear. Looking down at the city lights illuminating the night, he breathed in the cool, calming breeze before saying, "You have me." He then turned to face the star. “The others are here for you too.”

Aster stared at Kyo, admiring how beautiful he looked. It was like a side of Kyo that Aster never knew existed, they were friends for years so he never really thought of it but he was quite attractive. His eyes shone, basically sparkling as the stars shined down on him. 

“Would things be different if I didn’t meet Ren?” 

“Maybe? But then you wouldn’t have met me or the others if you didn’t meet Ren.” He hated Ren’s guts at the moment but he was thankful that he became a path that led them to meet someone as great as Aster.

“Yeah, you’re right.” Aster said, nodding. “It would be a shame to not meet and become friends with Mr. Kyo Kaneko.” He said teasingly, looking at the blue-haired guy who in return gave him a glare. Aster just laughed at his reaction and soon after Kyo laughed too, he was happy that Aster was feeling better after what had happened.

“You know, sometimes, I wished it was you who I fell for. Maybe I wouldn’t be hurting this much.” Aster sighed. Playing with the sleeves of his hoodie that Shu gave to him on his birthday, it immediately became his favorite due to the softness of it.

“I-I uhm.. What made you come to that statement?” Kyo stuttered, not expecting that statement to come out of Aster’s mouth when he literally just thought about it not even an hour ago. 

Did he know? Or was this just a prank? Who told him? Was it Aia? Scarle? Maria?

“I don’t know, just a random thought.” Aster said, shrugging his shoulders before walking to the door. He stopped to look back and saw a bewildered Kyo just staring at him, he let out a small giggle before running away. Kyo chased him after he composed himself, calling out his name.

Yeah. He’ll be alright. 

Chapter Text

It was hot and crowded. The place felt unusual, and the atmosphere reeked of sweat and alcohol. Yet Aster was at the bar, drinking his sorrows away. Aster is not the type to drink... he never tried to, nor did he have a reason to. But with how the situation turned out, it was something he really needed. 

He was grateful that he had friends on whom he could rely. Especially Uki, who checks on him every second, and Kyo, who was, surprisingly, overly sweet to him lately. It was not that what they were doing was not helping him. It was. But then sometimes you’ll be hit with that big ball of realization and then immediately fall into a pit. And, with a very emotionally clouded mind, he went to the nearest bar, wanting to be free from his thoughts and feelings even for a second.

It was funny, really. No matter what he tells himself, no matter how much he convinces himself that what happened was never his fault, he still blames himself. Ren cheats, yet Aster blames himself for it. Was he inadequate as a partner? Did he not fulfill his role properly? Or were Ren’s feelings for him a lie? 

He wanted to ask Ren what and where he lacked and if Aster abides to his wishes, would he have stayed with Aster? It was another one of Aster’s insecurities piling up and slowly causing his downfall. Aster cut all communication with Ren months ago, there was no use for such thoughts in his head. But he couldn’t help it, Ren was his first love, and he hated the fact that it ended without any proper explanations as to why Ren did such things. 

Downing in another shot, Aster let out a sigh as he felt tingles on his body, the alcohol clearly taking effect as his cheeks were flushed. He knew he would most likely hate himself for drinking, but he didn’t care at this point. 

“Ren…” 

He then felt a person approach and sat next to him. Aster also felt the stranger’s gaze, it seemed to be filled with… concern? Worried? Or maybe it was the Alcohol talking. 

“…Sir? You okay, Sir?” The mysterious white-haired male asked. 

Aster’s blurred vision couldn’t see the face of the man in front of him. His senses left no room for any rational actions and did what his sober self wouldn’t; he wrapped his arms around the stranger and connected their lips. The man was startled, not really expecting the feminine boy to act like this, but it wasn’t as if he didn’t like it.

The stranger’s lip felt so soft against his that Aster couldn't help but slowly lower his guard. This was probably something that he’ll regret in the morning, but who said that mattered now? All Aster wanted was to forget his pain, problems, and insecurities just for one night. Might as well use pleasure as a means to do so. 

The mysterious man’s hands soon grabbed Aster's waist and pulled him closer which caused Aster to let out a gasp and he took that as an opportunity to slip his tongue inside. Aster tasted like heaven to the stranger. He was so sweet that he was slowly becoming addicted. They both had felt no shame even though they were in the middle of a crowded bar. Lust was filling both their senses, and they badly wanted to attend to their desires.

Releasing each other, they looked into each other’s eyes. Aster didn’t know that orange eyes were tantalizing. The mystery man held Aster’s hand as he led them both into his apartment nearby. 

The wind outside was cold, enough to make Aster shiver a bit as he wasn’t really the type to handle the cold easily. But for some reason, the hand that was held by the mysterious man was warm, it was warm enough for Aster to not be bothered by the cold. 

 Once inside the apartment, Aster was immediately slammed onto the wall, their lips reconnecting. But before they could go any further, Aster stopped him. 

“Wh- “Aster was catching his breath. “I’m A-Aster. What’s your name?”

“iPN.” The white-haired male as he caressed Aster’s hair. “You can call me iPN.”

iPN’s usually routine was to get up, get ready, go to work, then go to the bar after work to try and forget the one purple-haired male that occupied every inch of his mind. Everyday he felt dejected over the fact that he didn’t have the courage to talk to him, and iPN found himself waiting at the café everyday for that same purple-haired male who seemed to have stolen his heart without even trying. But it didn’t happen. 

Months passed and iPN was shocked to see the same male at the bar he went to frequently, drunk as heck, and was obviously upset about something. 

Why here of all places? 

iPN couldn’t help but ask himself or fate, not that he was complaining, he would’ve accepted anywhere as long as he gets to encounter Aster again. 

Approaching him, iPN heard small murmurs from Aster. He was mentioning a name he was unfamiliar with. 

Ren? Who’s Ren? Was Ren the one causing him to act like this? 

Deciding to comfort the male, he never expected that whatever he tried to do would lead to something else. The only thing iPN hoped was that whatever would happen, it wouldn’t be something that Aster would regret in the morning. 

For some reason the name sounded familiar. Aster wanted to try and remember where he heard that name, but he was too distracted to do so. Aster felt hands slowly trail up from his exposed leg, it left tingles on his pale skin as he felt warmer than ever. He held tighter onto iPN's arm, as he felt like his knees would give up on him due to the amount of pleasure he felt at that moment. 

"This isn't even half of what you're going to feel soon…" iPN’s deep husky voice whispered into Aster's ear. It was filled with so much love and want that it made Aster let out a moan. 

Chapter Text

I know it's been 6 months since I last updated, but TSWA will be under major revision since there are some chapters that don't feel right. I do apologize if this is the only update you'll get after a while but i promise that TSWA will be back angst-ier than ever <3 Have a good day everyone! 

Chapter Text

Hi everyone!

I know it's been years since my last update, and I did try to create the rest of the plot but sadly, that inspiration never hit me.

Now, I won't say much, but just as what the title said, I will be discontinuing and will soon delete this fic. Why? Because I've moved on. And I won't be bringing this with me.

I'm sure most of you have probably seen the announcements, the allegations, and the months long silence that came with it. Then, the final verdict was eventually released and, I admit, it stung. It also left more questions than answers, but I've already prepared myself for this outcome.

And, the silence, gave a lot of realizations, a lot of time to read in between the lines. It led me to the conclusion where it's time to close this chapter.

Thank you everyone for supporting The Stars Weren't Aligned. Every comment and every kudos brought me joy knowing that there are people that enjoy what I write.

I hope that you'd still be with me in my future works, if i ever start writing again.

And if not, then I will still wish you all the best in life.

Thank you, once again.

TSWA signing off— for good :)

Love,
Rui