Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The bond between the Tenma siblings was unshakable. While many considered Tsukasa as a loud and exuberant attention-seeker, Saki saw her brother as the star he claimed to be. Or at the very least, a star in the making. Unbeknownst to Tsukasa, she had ensured that anyone who disregarded her dear brother ended up regretting it.  

Akito still wasn’t aware of the real cause of the stomach-ache he had after he first met Tsukasa. (Hint: No one gets away with insulting Saki’s brother in front of her.) 

Similarly, Tsukasa has always been present for Saki in the darkest times of her life. When her friends stopped visiting her at the hospital, Tsukasa visited her as often as he could, sometimes to his own detriment, to brighten her world. When he couldn’t see her, he called her, and when she was scared, he would hold her hand and tell her stories of knights in shiny armor, of princesses saving princes, and more generally, stories that gave her hope and wonders for the future that life reserved for her. If anything, his stories ever steeled her resolve to get better and group back with the friends she lost of view. It made her believe, unconsciously, that there was solution to every problem and that patience could bear fruits. 

The point was, Tsukasa meant everything to her sister. Exaggerated as that might sound (nowadays, she had many people she cared about after all), she took upon herself the duty of protecting her poor elder brother that so easily brushed aside his own problems.  

She always told herself that if Tsukasa ever decided to date...  

She’d ensure that his chosen partner would be worthy of Tsukasa. 

Saki never really was one to break rules, but she made exceptions for emergencies. So when she noticed, as she left that morning, that Tsukasa forgot his lunch, she decided it’d be a duty as his sister to bring his lunch to school! Well, yes, she could easily leave the task to Emu, whom Tsukasa often complained about her visits during lunchtime... 
 
But Emu wasn’t someone she saw on daily basis plus... Saki have been worried about her brother. 

… Tsukasa was acting weird lately. He was caught up in his thoughts and very skittish. Silent, even. She would usually hear Tsukasa’s loud voice echoing through the house as he practiced, or even talk to himself. Bothering as it was, it always brought a smile to Saki’s face. It was a warm house kept alive by her brother’s voice.  

(If it ever bothered her, she could easily find a refuge in Sekai, but it rarely happened.) 

With Tsukasa’s silence, the air seemed colder. Whenever she’d ask her brother what happened, he’d just say that he was fine with an embarrassed look on his face.  

She didn’t like it. It reminded her of a time before Wonderland x Showtime, where Tsukasa was keeping to himself the brash words of teenagers that couldn’t understand those who didn’t act like the flock.  

The school bell rang, announcing the lunch break to the delight of the students and the dismay of teachers who didn’t get to finish their sentences. Saki drew a smile to her face and got up energetically. It’ll be fine. She’ll just see her brother and ensure *no one* dares to criticize the blonde. 

She smiled apologetically to Ichika.  

“Ichika! I’ll see you all at practice tonight! My brother forgot his lunch at home, so I’ll be delivering his lunch.” 

Ichika nodded, understanding. “I’ll see you then.” It brought warmth to Saki’s heart as she was reminded that she had a group she belonged to. Friends that she gets to see and practice with every day.  

Her smile lingered on her lips as she dashed out of the school, to ensure she’d arrive on time to her brother’s school. 

“Hmmm... If I remember well, my brother and his friends usually eat at the rooftop.” 
 
Saki spoke to herself, navigating inside the unfamiliar hallways of the school. In a hidden corner of the deserted hallway, she heard a familiar voice: 

“R-Rui! Don’t do that!” 

Saki accelerated her pace. She knew her brother was often teased by Rui, but what if it was more serious? Troupe member or not, no one should bother her brother. 

She wasn’t ready for what she saw. 

Rui stood at an intimate distance in front of Tsukasa, leaning a little towards her brother. Their faces were close, and while she couldn’t see his expression well, the red blush painting the blonde’s cheeks was evident. Shocked, she turned around and hid herself behind the wall. While out of sight, she could still hear the ongoing conversation. 

“Relax. No one saw.” 

“T-That’s not the point! You can’t just do that out of nowhere!” Her brother sounded nervous, but not in a bad way. It was a tone of voice he often had when Rui teased him.  

“Hmmm? I just wanted to help you Tsukasa, and here I thought you appreciated my help... You pain me!” 
“That’s not!” Silence. “Aaah- fine for this time. Just tell me in advance next time ok?” 

“Oh? So you don’t mind it. You find me relieved.” 

What did Saki just see? And, more accurately, how did she never notice it before? 

Tsukasa liked his director. And if he was more absent minded lately... 

It was probably because he started dating. But why not tell her? Saki silently walked away as she continued to look for the rooftop. Her brain was actively thinking about how she should deal with the information. She arrived at her destination and saw Nene wait for the two boys, playing on her phone in the meantime. 

She sent a text to her brother. 

“Tsukasa! I brought you your lunch. I'm at the rooftop, but I don’t see you there.” 
“I’LL BE RIGHT THERE SAKI.” 

Saki saw the two older boys arrive a few minutes later. Tsukasa smiled happily at her, opening his arms for a hug. 

“SAKI! HI! YOU SHOULD’VE TOLD ME YOU WERE COMMING.” 
 
She smiled and accepted the hug. Her brother tends to be louder when excited. He looked like his usual happy self. 

“Hehe, I just wanted to surprise you! I hope it’s fine.” 

“You could never bother me! Though, I could’ve come to find you at the gate!” 

Saki pacified her brother. From the back of her eye, she saw Rui sit next to Nene. 
 
“Sorry for the wait Nene, how are you?” 
“Not now Rui, I don’t want to lose my combo.” 
 

The two boys of them didn’t stand close together anymore, acting as if nothing happen. Very well, she thought, if her brother wished to keep his relationship a secret, then as the good sister she was, she would act as if she didn’t see anything. 

However, she narrowed her eyes as she waved goodbye to Tsukasa, she’d have to see if Rui was truly serious about him. She didn’t want her poor innocent brother to be taken for granted.  

Saki started walking back towards her school, the outlines of a plan forming in her mind. 

Chapter Text

Each month, the two Tenma siblings put their schedule on the fridge. It helped knowing whether to wait for Saki to come home before eating or not because she had band practice, or when to expect Tsukasa to become back home late due to his side gig. 

This also allowed Saki to find a time where she could watch a Wonderland x showtime practice. Tsukasa was easy to convince, he was delighted at the idea of having his dear sister see what it was like behind the stage, when the show was still unrealized.  

Saki smiled as her brother boasted their teamwork and accompanied him to Phoenix Wonderland. There, she almost forgot her mission as she was filled with nostalgia and happiness just from being to the attraction park. She greeted Tsukasa’s teammates and sat not too far. 

Rui started the practice by talking about the twists he tried to do to their newest script, a story of a ruin explorer that didn’t realize that the place was still inhabited by spirits. There were some minor changes, such as dialogue modification or as changing the positioning of the actors during a scene... However, there were also some more gimmicks that were added. Saki wasn’t naïve, she saw what a WonderlandsxShowtime show was before. She knew that Rui would throw tons of crazy ideas to Tsukasa. And she also knew that the later trusted him to no bounds. 

The director explained his new idea. 

“As he enters the corridor, our explorer doesn’t expect much as he walked through the same path the day before. I thought that rather than make the weapons float with strings and attack Tsukasa, we could rather use a succession of pressure plate that will trigger the trap mechanism. Come here Tsukasa.” 
 
Rui extended a hand to Tsukasa, smiling brightly. The blonde was visibly smitten with how... focused? his partner looked and accepted the hand, following Rui back on the stage. Rui pointed to colored stones he installed previously and pulled the star a bit closer to show him the installation. He continued: 

“As you step on the first stone, a blade will swing from the right. In theory, our explorer will panic, the explorer will quickly step forward, triggering the next stone which will send a hammer straight ahead. And then, by stepping on the next stone, there will...” 
 
Rui continued the explanation and Tsukasa listened attentively to his new task, leaning a bit on the other as he focused. Was he even trying to hide anything? Pink dusted Rui’s ears. They weren’t subtle at all... Reluctantly, Rui separated himself from Tsukasa and pressed on the first stone before stepping behind. As predicted, the blade swung forth, but in a fast and swift manner. Rui grinned mischievously. 

“So Tsukasa, think you are up to the task?” 
“Of course Rui! Just you wait, I’m going to cross through your obstacles in no time!” 
 
Emu was incredibly excited at the idea and tugged on Nene’s sleeve. 

“LOOK NENE! THE BLADE WENT ALL ZWING!!! Tsukasa will have to swoosh, wham, hup and then huuuwaaaa!” 

Saki felt a little worried. Wasn’t that a bit dangerous to start with something so fast right off the bat? But her brother wasted no time and stepped on one stone to another in succession, clumsily escaping all of them. He was very concentrated and once on the other side, he looked at the others full of pride. Saki smiled and clapped for her brother. 

“SEE THAT? NO TROUBLES AT ALL RUI!” he exclaimed. The other boy smiled, with raised eyebrows, and clapped silently in response. 

“Excellent Tsukasa. When you’ll get used to the pattern, work to show more the confusion and the fear the explorer feels as he avoids the unexpected traps. I didn’t expect you to go through them so fast right off the bat though. Great work.” 
 
“Of course! I’m just getting started, the final show will be even better!” 
 
Nene looked at the hour and announced the break. Tsukasa climbed down the stage in no time and rushed to see Saki. 
 
“Saki! Did you see that? Hehe, thank you for staying, I know practices can be a bit boring to watch... but I hope you do not think any less of your big brother!” 

Saki shook her head with a smile.  

“Of course not, you were amazing Tsukasa! It’s incredible how fast you all progress. Plus... There’s nothing that would make me think less of you, don’t worry,” she paused as she noticed that Tsukasa seemed tired. “You should go drink some water Tsukasa; you deserve it.” 

Tsukasa quickly hugged his sister and walked away. “Alright, I’ll be right back!” 
 
Saki smiled as she saw him go and got caught up in her thoughts. She wondered if Tsukasa would do anything Rui would ask of him without a thought. … No, she knew it wasn’t true, he usually wants to understand more about the things that Rui makes him try before agreeing, so that meant that he probably had an idea of how the trap worked. She climbed on the stage and looked at the weapons.  

They seemed to be made of condensed Styrofoam with a tin aluminium colored coating and a rounded blade. While solid, it wouldn’t do much more than to leave a small bruise if someone didn’t avoid it. 

She was so concentrated that she inevitably jumped as she heard a voice behind her. 

“Fufu, sad to see it’s not a real blade? I might change it when the show comes so it looks more realistic, but I wouldn’t put anything more dangerous in the trial stages. But even if I did... I think Tsukasa would manage not to get hurt. He is quite athletic.” 

Saki looked at Rui suspiciously, which caused him to put emphasis on a few words: “I’ll never let my actors face real danger. Even if I do believe in Tsukasa’s capacities, I know to make sure the worst never happen.” 

The younger girl sighed and gave the director a small smile. Concerns aside, she was impressed by his ability to read her. 
“Sorry for this, I can’t help but worry a little when I see him go in so headstrong.” 

To her answer, Rui chuckled with a fond look on his face. His voice softened, as he seemed stuck in his thoughts. 

“Yes... Your brother always surprises me with how eagerly he meets any of my ideas. To have someone sharing my goals, and trusting my abilities... He is one in a million.” 
 
Saki looked at Rui and saw a boy who was truly enamored with her brother. She could glimpse at how important Tsukasa was for him, at how his feelings went beyond the simple puppy love one would usually feel at their age. She smiled and hesitated before asking another question: 
 
“What would you do if someone else pushed Tsukasa to do something that was too dangerous for a show? Or if my brother tries to push himself beyond his limits?” 
 
“I would of course dissuade him no matter the cost. And have a good talk with that person who thinks they can play with safety like this,” Rui had a dark smile on his face. “And if things become too much of a burden for Tsukasa, as a director it’s my job to help him find balance. If he keeps taking on too much, maybe I should make a Kasa-Robot to help? No, that wouldn’t solve the problem... Hmm, I’ll find ways to get him to rest. Can’t have our future star burning himself out after all. I’m sure you’d be willing to help, Saki.” 
 
He gave her a polite smile and she nodded in response. “Of course, I won’t let my brother tire himself out when he desperately needs rest.” 

Saki hummed and looked at Rui. She felt like she could trust him with her brother. 

“You know what Rui? You’re a good guy. You have my approval.” 

Happily, Saki got up and headed to the backstage where her brother was, happy with her observations of the day. She chatted with him until the break was over and watched the rest of the practice.  

Saki felt on the edge of her seat as Tsukasa was taking forever to change out of his “practice clothes” and gather his things to leave. She got up, and looked for him...  

And she did find him easily enough, head leaning on his boyfriend’s shoulder, as the latter gently brushed his hair. He was still in his practice clothes the little- 

Saki sighed as her thoughts were interrupted by her brother’s voice: 
“Are you sure I didn’t make too much of a mess of myself? I wanted to impress Saki, not act like a clown... I couldn’t get the tone right at multiple moments and- Well, I barely crossed through the obstacle course.” 

Alas, even when Tsukasa tried to be discreet, he talked loudly.  

Rui chuckled at the star’s words and teasingly said: “I wouldn’t worry if I were you, it is well known that you are always a bit of a mess and a clown.” 

Tsukasa pouted and poked him. “You know that’s not what I mean! And! I’m confident and creative, got it!” 
 
Rui laughed louder at his response, still playing with the other boy’s hair. “Sure, sure... But more seriously... You were brilliant. You are learning your text and character faster than usual; I can see you worked hard on this. As for the obstacle course, I didn’t plan for you to do it all in one go! I thought you would try them one at a time, so I was stunned to see you cross it first try.” 
 
Tsukasa’s voice grew brighter, hopeful even. “R-Really? But- You acted as if it was nothing, I thought-” 

Rui cut him there. “I know that your potential is near infinite Tsukasa. And I know that you like to know what you need to work on, so I focused on giving you what to focus on. I apologize if it was too rough or-” 
 
This time, it was Tsukasa’s turn to cut him with a louder voice, as he turned towards Rui and looked at him with clear eyes. “It wasn’t! I always appreciate your inputs! I-It's just... It feels nice when you praise me too. It... motivates me, you know...” 
 
Tsukasa’s look soon became shy and Rui, mesmerized by his boyfriend, gently took him in his arms for a hug. His voice was affectionate and a little teasing as he spoke: 
 
“Oh, I’ll keep that in mind, fufu. But yes Tsukasa, you did a wonderful job today. Our star is so hardworking and earnest, you just keep on amazing me every time we practice together. And to be able to go through the traps in one go, you showed incredible prowess and concentration. Such a good star...” 
 
“R-Rui-” 
 
At the shaky sound of her brother’s voice, Saki decided that nope, she wasn’t listening to this any longer.  

She walked back towards the exit, waited a few minutes and, annoyed, she returned towards the boys and spoke loudly as to announce her presence: “Tsukasaaaaa! Are you done?” 

She heard some rumbles coming from where they were. 
 
“A-Almost! I’m coming soon Saki!” 

Tsukasa huffed and soon greeted Saki, standing two full meters away from Rui, as if they weren’t cuddling a few minutes ago. Saki noticed that he was fully changed, with many one or two buttons badly done.  

She sighed and waited for her brother to bid goodbye to his friends. Only then could the two Tenma head home together. 

Chapter Text

A few days passed since Saki went to see Tsukasa’s practice. Her days were normal, though her parents were absent more often lately due to work. Tsukasa seemed to go home later these days, but the younger sibling supposed that it was better than to accidently witness her brother and his boyfriend in another intimate moment. 

She felt pretty tired from her long day, and she couldn’t wait to just go home and casually play on her keyboard. However, she had the odd feeling that her wishes wouldn’t become reality as she closed her umbrella and entered her home.  

If she didn’t notice the extra pair of shoes in the entrance, the presence of a guest could still be deduced by the two voices that could be heard from Tsukasa’s room. 

“Ooooh? Aren’t you staring a bit much Tsukasa? If I didn’t know better, I’d say you were just making excuses to undress me.” The guest spoke with a teasing, smug tone that couldn’t belong to anyone else than Rui. 

Saki’s brain kind of stopped at those words filled with information that she didn’t reaaaally want to know. She almost missed her brother’s response. 

“R-Rui, that’s not it, stop teasing me-” 
“Hmm? Are you sure? You seem quite flustered Tsukasa.” 
“I- I mean... I knew you were toned from performing with you but... seeing you from close is... something else- I didn’t mean-” 
 
Nope. Tenma Saki was too tired to deal with this right now. She went back outside and took a deep breath... before slamming the door open and screaming with a fake happy tone: 
 
“I’M HOME BIG BROTHER!” 

She heard loud noises coming from upstairs that definitely belonged to someone falling on the floor and frantically searching for something. She sighed and yelled once again. 
 
“I’m coming in the living room noooooow!” 

She walked inside and put down her bag before stretching. A blushing Tsukasa came down to meet her. 

“S-Saki! Hey, welcome home.” 
 
She acknowledged his greeting and smiled at him tiredly. 

“Hey Tsukasa, I hope you are doing well. Since you are home today, I suppose you have an idea of what to eat for supper?” 

Tsukasa laughed nervously. “Actually, I arrived home later than planned... It’s just that as you know there was a down pour today and Rui forgot his umbrella, and Nene already left, so I invited him to come over, but he was already drenched and-” 
 
Her brother started to ramble faster and faster, obviously embarrassed before being cut by Rui: 
“Hey, sorry for the sudden intrusion, the situation wasn’t ideal for me to go home. Thank you for having me.” 
 
Saki turned her head towards Rui, who was standing behind Tsukasa, in the middle of the stairs. She noticed that he was wearing Tsukasa’s oversized t-shirt he ordered online last June. It was fitting him better than on her brother.  

Between the purple color of said shirt and the printed text saying ‘PhD in Science-fiction', Saki started to wonder if it was truly ordered in the wrong size. 

Saki sighed again. “It’s no problem Rui, just maybe help Tsukasa cook? Ah, then again, I shouldn’t ask that of guest. I suppose I can do the supper this time. You owe me brother.” 

Rui’s eyes perked in interest. “I can totally help with the cooking Saki, don’t worry.” 

Tsukasa didn’t look convinced. “I wouldn’t trust you with a knife, let alone fire. Just wait for a bit Rui. Plus, knowing you, you’ll try to throw out the vegetables while my back is turned.” 

“Ahhh, such hurtful words! I’d like to tell you that I know quite well how to contain fire and explosions-” 
“RUI! NO EXPLOSIONS IN THE KITCHEN!” 

“It was just an example dear group leader.” 
 
Saki smiled at the banter and opened the fridge. Surprisingly, Tsukasa had enough awareness to notice her actions. 

“Seriously Saki, I don’t mind cooking. Just relax for now, ok?” 

Tsukasa looked at Saki apologetically. He knew that his sister had a long day. His concern warmed Saki’s heart a little. 

“Alright, thank you brother. I’ll head to my room then.” Just as Saki was about to leave, she was stopped by her brother who spoke again, blushing. 

“W-Wait Saki, why don’t you stay and chat a bit? It’s been a while since we talked. How was your day?” 
 
Saki was taken aback by his request. Why did her brother want her to stay when he was with his boyfriend? 

“It was pretty long honestly, between school and work. Say, Tsukasa, are you sure that I shouldn’t leave you and your guest alone?” 
 
She looked at the two, unsure. Rui seemed to be staring at Tsukasa intensely while the latter avoided the director’s gaze, obviously shy. 

“Stay with us at least until we eat supper. Come on, I miss my dear sister!!! I’ll buy you your favorite snacks later?” 
 
Rui and Saki sighed at the same time, though Saki was unable to refuse her brother’s request. 

He’d better keep his promise. 

Well, he was Tsukasa Tenma, so she knew he would, but still. 

So, as her brother asked, she started rambling about her day. 

“Alright, if you insist. Hmmmm, let’s see. Classes were quite boring, though I finished the history homework in class, so I suppose it was productive at least? I’ve been stuck on a few parts of the melody I’m making, so I decided to ask Shiho for a bit of feedback, since she helped me come with the general feel. We then went to eat with Honami and Ichika. Oh, apparently the bakery Honami usually goes to didn’t have any more apple pies when she visited so she was a bit down...” 

Her brother let little surprised or excited hums to show that he was interested in the conversation, still avoiding Rui’s gaze from time to time. She sighed again. Perhaps Tsukasa was feeling guilty about being “almost” caught with his “secret” boyfriend doing... 

Truthfully, so long as it was consensual and that her brother enjoyed it, she didn’t want to know what the two were doing.  

She herself felt in an odd position. She wanted to find a way to get out of this almost third wheel position (poor Rui barely talked so far, so it wasn’t that bad for her, but still). 

And then an idea came in mind. 

“Oh, by the way brother, I remember seeing a flyer saying that Phoenix Wonderland had a special event this weekend where they sell sweets and pastries? Like I heard there was going to be some additional stands and they will offer a special variety of treats. 

Hmmm, what did they call it again? The ‘Candy Wonders Special Weekend’? I was planning to go with Hona but she had other things this weekend. Still, if you could go with Rui and get some apple baked goods I could give her, I think that’ll cheer her up a little. Please?” 

There. Wasn’t she a good sister? Giving an opportunity for her brother to go on a date with his boyfriend. Well, it was basically at their workplace... 

But nonetheless, the blonde’s eyes shone with excitement. 

“Ooooh! Right, I had forgotten about it since it didn’t involve the show department. Wonderful idea Saki! It would be wonderful to spend time with both of my favorite people in one of my favorite place! … W-Well, if you are ok with it Rui.” 
 
Tsukasa looked away from the stove (a dangerous action in Saki’s opinion) to gaze amorously at his lover, acting so (grossly) cute that Rui visibly couldn’t help but nod to. Seriously, how were they expecting her not to notice. 

Rui let go of his signature chuckle. 

“It would be a delight to accompany you two Tenma in the quest of the ultimate apple dish. Plus, perhaps seeing the park from the angle of a visitor this time will bring us ideas for our future shows.” 
 
Wait. Did Saki hear right?  

Why was she included in their date. 

“Wait, I’m coming too?” 
“Why, of course dear sister! How else would we know what would please your friend? Oh, I’m so excited, I never thought an opportunity to hang out with you two would come so soon!” 
 
Saki forced a smile. Her brother was so excited... she knew she couldn’t by that point. Otherwise he’d make a face that would crush her heart. Just as Saki was a weakness of Tsukasa... 

Tsukasa was a weakness of hers. Such was the bond between the Tenma siblings. 

The rest of the conversation turned around Saki’s job and the day that Tsukasa and Rui shared. Rui spoke sparely, but Saki found him nice to be around nonetheless as the conversation continued (though she’d still rather be in her room than watch two boys hopelessly pine on each other). He made a few witty comments of pranks she could pull on her new manager. Ideas that she’ll never realize but that she’ll preciously conserve in her mind to imagine once again next time he makes unreasonable demands again. 

Finally, Tsukasa served everyone a modest plate of chicken and rice, with a sauce full of flavor and to another boy’s dread, vegetables. 

Saki had to sit down and try to keep her eyes on her own plate as a boy older than her whined about not wanting to eat broccolis and as her brother tried to coax said boy to eat said broccoli.  

She tried to concentrate on the flavors in her mouth. A yes, her brother deliciously seasoned the rice. The sauce was... sweet? Didn’t her brother dislike to put so much sugar in this kind of sauce? It wasn’t unpleasant but... 

Her silent question was answered when she saw her brother dip a broccoli in said sauce and shove it in his boyfriend’s mouth. The purple haired boy ate with an undecisive grimace. Rui almost unwillingly swallowed and whined again, a childish pout on his face. 

“Tsukasaaaaa, feed me some chicken instead. I love your cooking but keep those abominations far from me!” 

Tsukasa continued to feed Rui without a thought, earning a happy smile when giving meat or rice and a grumpy scowl when giving vegetables. 

The little show the two gave Saki made her grimace as well. Do not be mistaken however, Saki was truly happy for their relationship. 

She just really didn’t want to watch her brother act so lovey dovey. She was a little uncomfortable with the pda.  

She calmed herself and awkwardly continued her meal. Tsukasa must have miraculously noticed it as he suddenly stiffed and reddened. 

“Wait, what am I doing? Rui! Eat by yourself!” 
“Hmmm? But you were so eager to do it, I thought I’d play along... but if you wish Tsukasa, I’ll relieve you from your duties of hand feeding me. Ahhh, I can finally stop eating vegetables.” 

Rui’s tone was teasing, which riled up Tsukasa furthermore. The boy rose from his seat, huffing. 

“Eat your whole plate Kamishiro! I worked really hard on this you know?” 
But sadly Tsukasa wasn’t listened to and was instead teased once again. 

“Hmm? I’m afraid human stomachs cannot digest ceramics lord Tenma.” 

Saki profited of the fact that Tsukasa’s attention was fully on Rui to slowly escape to her room. She was at peace for a while, but she ended up seeking refuge in Sekai as she heard from her room Tsukasa’s loud voice. 

From the loud, embarrassed “Ruiii, wait-” to the “I- FINE I DIDN’T MIND IT! HAPPY?”, she felt like her ears would be tainted if she stayed in her room any longer. 

Chapter Text

Saturday evening, Honami was visited by a very tired Saki. The young guest smiled fondly at her. 

“Honami! Heyy, I’m bringing your promised goods!” 

She (and her gift) was accepted inside with great enthusiasm. They sat at a table and opened the pastry box with a bright ‘Phoenix Wonderland’ sign on it. 

“Woah! Saki, you brought so much! I’m not sure if I’ll be able to eat all this all alone. Maybe we should share some with the others in Sekai later.” 
 
“Ohh! That’s a great idea Hona! We should do that!” 
 
Saki felt her friend analyze her expression, before showing a more serious face. Honami spoke gently. 

“Are you okay Saki? You look tired... Mentally, I mean. Usually, after a fun day like this, you would be hopping in your seat. Did something happen?” 
 
Saki deflated in her seat at the comment. She forgot how perceptive Honami could be at times. She hesitated. 

“Well, I’m not sure I should talk about it...” 
However, her friend didn’t like that answer and frowned. 

“This seems to be eating you though... You should talk about it to someone, even if it’s not me. I-I mean, I might be concerned for nothing, but...” 
The brunette took a deep breath and continued. 

“Bottling things up often makes them worse. I would know.” 

Saki gently smiled at her friend. She understood her point of view, it’s just... She doesn’t want to overstep by revealing things that her brother wanted to keep secret. But still... 

If he really wanted to keep it a secret, he should act accordingly and not show off his relationship in her face! She huffed at that thought. 

“Well- You might have a point. Just promise to keep it a secret, I don’t want any trouble!” 
 
Honami gently laughed, putting Saki at ease. 

“Of course, I promise Saki.” 
 
“Ok, so you see...” Saki started, still forming the next words in her mind. “My brother seems to be dating one of his crewmembers. I say ‘seems’ because they never announced it! Why is it a problem? Because they keep clinging to one another in front of me and I can’t escape! I swear Honami, I almost spent the whole day third wheeling! I could distract them and go to some attractions alone from time to time, but then my brother would get worried 30 minutes after and-” 
 
Saki sighed under Honami’s empathic gaze. The latter gently rubbed her shoulders.  

“Oh, that sounds rough Saki. So Tsukasa is dating Rui? They do seem to be the type to be affectionate to their partners. But it is weird that he’s trying to hide it from you. I’m thinking... maybe Tsukasa wanted you to be there to gauge how you’d react if he was affectionate with someone else?” 
 
Saki frowned confusedly at the drummer’s theory. 

“Why would my brother want to be careful to how I react to him being in a relationship? He told me he was gay, like, 3 years ago and I reacted fine? I mean, it wasn’t really surprising as he often gushed over the same actors as Ichika when we were kids. Plus, I wasn’t really in the position to judge him-” 

Honami smiled patiently. Saki seemed to understand that she was going off track and waited for her friend to speak. 

“Well, maybe it’s not so much about the fact that he is dating Rui or a man, but rather the fact that he is dating in general. Knowing your brother, he would do anything to keep you from getting hurt... and he might be scared that him dating might make you feel alone, even though you are better surrounded. I mean... I don’t see why else he would be hiding it.” 
 
Saki paused, considering it. 

“That... might make sense. I mean... On the way here, we did have an odd conversation...” 
 

Honami’s and Saki’s house were closer to one another than Rui’s with any of the two. As such, after their trip to Phoenix Wonderland were over, Rui parted ways with the Tenma siblings.  

That gave a chance for Tsukasa to talk privately to Saki. Her brother acted awkwardly now that Rui was gone. 

“So, hum, Saki, did you enjoy yourself today? Even though we weren’t just the both of us?” 
“Hmm? Yes I mean, I don’t really know your friends, but today was fun, plus I got some alone time too. Why do you ask?” 
 
“Hmm- How would you feel if - hmm, if I - Really liked someone in a romantic way?” 
 
Tsukasa was talking very fast, so Saki had to take a second to register. Why didn’t he just tell her he was dating Rui and instead was asking such a roundabout question? 

“Isn’t that normal if it happens? Like, falling in love and getting a boyfriend is a normal thing to happen at our age, and if you really like someone, I’ll be happy for you. Of course, if he hurts you, I’ll have a word or two to give him...” Saki had a scary smile on her face. 

Tsukasa paled. 

“Why, Tsukasa? Do you liiiike someone? Anything you wanna tell me?” Saki continued in a teasing voice. Come on. It was too tempting for her not to tease her brother. 

But her brother merely blushed in embarrassment. “Nope! No one! Nothing to tell!” 

He was stiff and silent until they split ways. 

Saki sighed as she recounted what happened to her friend. 

“I mean, I hope my comment didn’t scare him away. As understandable as I can be, I can’t pass on the chance not to tease him! And I mean, if he knew that I-” 
 
Saki stopped talking, embarrassed and played her one of her twin tails nervously. Honami looked at her with big innocent eyes. 

“If he knew what Saki?” 
“I- I mean if I were to have a crush on someone and he knew about it, or if I were dating someone, he’d be trying to ‘help’ me in the most insufferable way possible! You know how extra he can be! He would try to curry favor with my significant other and keep pestering us and- Aaaah, you know how he was with you girls at first! And the gift- Do you remember how he was when the group came back together? He kept bringing pastries and plushies whenever he knew you were around and speak like a doting mom!” 

Honami chuckled. 
“I see what you mean Saki, but I don’t think he means bad. Plus, he calmed down once you spoke with him, right? He will calm down eventually if you do find a partner.” 

Saki sighed. “Yea... You’re right. I’m just... a bit drained. I mean, you’d expect him to want to spend some time alone with his boyfriend, right? Not bring me everywhere with them! Like, he tried to make me go to the Ferris wheel with the both of them. So, I said I had to go to the bathroom! And he waited for me. HE WAITED FOR ME HONA. I HAD TO SIT IN THE CABIN WITH MY BROTHER AND HIS BOYFRIEND. WITH TWO LOVEBIRDS THAT WERE TOO MESMERIZED WITH EACH OTHER TO LOOK OUTSIDE.” 

Honami gently hugged her friend, who took great comfort from her empathy. 

“Oh... that does sound rough. Poor Saki.” 
 
Honami kept Saki in her arms in silence for a while, before sitting back down on her chair. Saki missed the warmth.  

The brunette hummed, deep in thought. 

“From what you are telling me, it sounds like your brother is a little apprehensive to be alone with Rui though. Which is odd if they are dating. Did he really stick with you at all times?” 
 
“Yes actually, he even tried to come with me in the trampoline dome. And with Rui too. … It seems that as much as he doesn’t want to be alone with Rui, he doesn’t want to be apart from him either. He still holds his hand when he thinks that I’m not looking. He even acted as if he was scared in the haunted house so he could cling to him! So, I don’t think that he is uncomfortable with him.... but it is odd.” 

Honami frowned a little, trying to analyse the new bit of information. 

“Well, your brother never really had such a close relationship with someone aside from your family, well except... You know... So, maybe the newfound intimacy scares him a little, even though he likes it? He could be keeping you around as some sort of familiar thing he can cling on as he tries to get used to something new.” 
 
“But- He already knows and trust Rui.” 
 
“And perhaps that is the scary thing. Rui already knows Tsukasa’s strengths and weaknesses. While your brother trusts him, their relationship is already much deeper than a romantic relationship created only by superficial attraction. I mean, my classmates often date people they don’t quite know yet, so the process of letting their partner close is more gradual. Tsukasa, however, has already opened himself fully to Rui, which might make their relationship evolve faster than other people’s. Since Tsukasa never had such a relationship before... maybe that proximity is a bit overwhelming to him right now. Oh! But it’s only my theory. Of course, only Tsukasa would know how he is feeling.” 
 
Honami smiled a little nervously while Saki gazed at her with wonder and gratitude. 

“Well, I suppose my brother never really had a boyfriend, or even a friend as close as Rui before. That would make sense. I- Thank you Honami, for listening to me and giving me a new possible viewpoint.” 
 
“Anytime Saki, plus you did bring me lots of sweets. Oh, right! Sweets! We talked for so long that I had forgotten. It’s a bit late to ask the girls to come to Sekai now, so maybe we should take one now and share the rest tomorrow, what do you think?” 
 
Honami winked at Saki playfully before bringing two plates to the table in the living room. She picked a pastry and gestured Saki to pick one too. She sat back, taking a bite, and looked at Saki with compassion? Amusement? Saki couldn’t quite tell. 

“So... do you want to continue to vent about your brother and his boyfriend’s pda?” 

“YES. I mean, if you don’t mind, but getting it out of my system would do me some good.” 
 
Saki exclaimed exasperatedly, causing Honami to smile gently. 

“Go ahead then, I’m all ears.” 
 
And so, she did. Saki recounted her day to the drummer. How Tsukasa spent an hour more than usual to get ready for the day, which lead them to rush to arrive in time. How Tsukasa’s face lit up as he saw his boyfriend next to the attraction park... only for him to get bashful as Rui teased him. 

How Rui couldn’t help himself but devour Tsukasa with his eyes, always making some ‘discreet’ gentle touches like a small brush on Tsukasa’s arm when he was stressed or a little fiddle with the actor’s hair, under the excuse that something fell on him. But there was never any leaf or dust on Tsukasa’s immaculate hair. Rui even made him believe that he had a spider on his back, which caused Tsukasa to panic and rush into the director’s arms. Saki’s judgmental gaze never left them. 

How Tsukasa leaned towards Rui every time the other boy talked. How he seemed to stare at his lips from time to time. How ‘gallant’ Tsukasa tried to be as he led Rui to the horse on the carrousel and helped him mount the attraction meant for people of all age (but especially children). Saki already took her seat before her brother could even try to give her the same treatment. 

How when she went to the bathroom to try to avoid going in the giant wheel, she could see Rui murmur in Tsukasa’s ear and her brother acting bashfully, fingers clinging on his boyfriend’s sleeve. And how when she came back, she saw Rui trapping her brother between his arms and the wall, mercilessly tickling him. How at any moment she absented herself, they started acting as if they were the only ones in the park.  

How she couldn’t take it anymore when, towards the end of the day, they were reminiscing about how their troupe came to be, and how ‘brilliant’ Tsukasa had been from the start and how ‘entrancing’ was Rui... ‘s show when Tsukasa saw it for the first time. She left them next to the wonder stage as she said she forgot to get some pastries earlier and insisted to go alone to get them. She took her time to come back, as she wished to have a well-deserved break from being a third wheel. 

Honami listened to the long vent attentively, agreeing that they were a bit much at time. She was enjoying listening to the blonde girl and just wished to help alleviate her frustration somewhat. 

They talked for so long that Saki ended up staying for the night. 

During that day where the Tenma siblings (followed by one tall Kamishiro) went to Phoenix Wonderlands, there was a brief moment where the two lovebirds were truly alone and unobserved. 

That moment happened when Saki left them near the wonder stage, under the guise of getting more pastries. The sun was setting, yet it wasn’t dark enough for the nearby lamp posts to light up, keeping the place in a rather quiet and almost intimate ambiance. 

Rui gazed at his partner with a smile on his face. This day by his partner’s side had been most enjoyable, despite the lack of the intimacy he craved so much. He understood that it couldn’t be helped however... and was content just to be by Tsukasa’s side. 

However, with Tsukasa so close, alone, lighting up the place just with his smile, Rui allowed himself to be a little greedy once more. 

Softly, the director held his hand towards his lead actor, inviting him to link it with his own. Tsukasa didn’t hesitate and took it, causing Rui to smile and whisk him to the flat area next to the stage. 

“You know... People often think our stage is a bit far from the center of the park, but I think its location is more of an asset than they might think. Having such quiet space next to the stage gives an opportunity to... get outside of the box. After all...” 

Rui chuckled and deposed his phone on a nearby surface. Soon, music started playing, but nothing Tsukasa could recognize. Just soft, joyful music that Rui hoped wouldn’t steal the blonde’s attention from him. He moved away from the phone, as to not knock it off, and pulled Tsukasa towards him. The two boys faced each other. 

“I always thought this spot had the potential to bring a more mysterious kind of wonder than our usual kind of shows. Such as a lost protagonist in search of a refuge in the dark woods...” 

Tsukasa was almost drinking Rui’s every word, completely immersed by the boy’s charisma (though Tsukasa’s perception might be influenced by his feelings for the boy). Rui smiled and wrapped an arm around Tsukasa’s hips and pulled him in a dance.  

“... Or even two people meeting outside of a masquerade, feeling an inexplicable pull towards each other despite the danger of trusting a stranger. Who knows? Maybe this could be the story of an undercover detective and a phantom thief.” 
 
Tsukasa’s innocent (?) attention became of a more lovesick daze as he pressed his body against the storyteller and followed the rhythm the latter provided. His voice sounded tantalizing as he played along with Rui’s idea. 

“Hmm, the detective would be greatly interested in the person he wouldn’t recognize among the crowd. Once he caught him outside, the detective surely would try to trick that person into conversing with him. A dance would keep the thief from fleeing if his questions became a bit too obvious. And so, the detective asked the stranger for a dance.” 
 
Rui’s ears reddened as the blonde went along with his little idea. The way Tsukasa was looking at him, the ambience, his tone of voice... Rui felt himself falling once more in love for the actor and felt his heartbeat go faster than the music. He took a deep breath and enjoyed the feeling of holding his star close to him... before composing himself. He gave Tsukasa a playful smile and continued the story. 

“The phantom thief had some time before he had to strike... Of course, he recognized the detective in a glance, but he thought it was probably safer to play along. Or, perhaps, he couldn’t quite shake the temptation of teasing his opponent before doing his heist. He accepted the dance and played innocent when faced with the detective’s probing.” 

Tsukasa felt lighter as he concentrated on the taller boy. 

“I don’t remember seeing you before sir, and here you are alone outside. Is the ball not to your taste?” 
 
Rui laughed a little at his partner’s improvisation. 

“Perhaps, or perhaps the guests are not quite to my taste.” 

“Oh? So this is not your usual social circle I take it. And yet, it isn’t easy to be invited without connections, so you cannot be totally foreign to this place." 

“You could say that.” 

Tsukasa clicked his tongue at the man’s short answer. Rui found it adorable. 

“You seem reluctant to present yourself. Am I one of those boring guests then? What a shame, I had hoped that you accepted this dance due to mutual interest.” 

“Oh no, you are a far cry from those beige characters parading inside, but I enjoy keeping a certain mystery.” Rui pulled Tsukasa closer to him and the dance became more intimate. “If you must know, let’s say I came here thanks to a certain... business partner.” 

“You see me reassured dear stranger.” Tsukasa made Rui twirl and barely stopped himself from laughing at how dorky they were both being. Swiftly, he pulled Rui back close to him at the right timing and continued: “I wouldn’t want to be the only one enjoying this dance. You seem like you wouldn’t have come here if not for having an ulterior motive. But I, for one, am delighted that I could make your acquaintance.” 

And that was the end of the time where the two were truly alone, as a single figure saw the rest of the scene. But neither Tsukasa, nor Rui were aware of that fact as the latter spoke: 

“Trying to subtly pry more information out of me detective? I would be delighted to spend more time in your company, but I am afraid that you’d get tired of me too easily were you to know everything about me. What do you say, if you can meet me again... I’ll answer a few questions for you.” 

Before the ‘detective’ could answer, Rui leaned closer and gently brushed Tsukasa’s lips with his thumb. He didn’t break eye contact, almost letting himself drown in the amber sea that were Tsukasa’s eyes. Their faces were so close that Rui could feel the blonde’s breath on his skin. With a dry voice, he continued, while breaking his character. 

“I think the phantom thief wouldn’t be able to resist to steal the detective’s lips... but now, that wouldn’t be appropriate for a children’s show now, would it?” 
 
Tsukasa gulped in front of the temptation that was Kamishiro Rui. His voice shook as he spoke. 

“I- I suppose it wouldn’t be.” 

At those words, Rui restrained himself and let go a very confused Tsukasa. He stepped away and reached for his phone, closing the music before sighing. Albeit sad of this outcome, Rui acted normal as he mumbled an excuse. 

“Hmmm, I’ll need to work more on this story for us to be able to perform it. But I think we have an interesting idea, what do you think?” 
 
Tsukasa could only nod in response, stuck in a daze. He felt like his heart was beating out of his chest. No words or sentences formed in his mind as he kept glancing at the one he loved. 

The witness of this scene left the area soon after that. Tsukasa and Rui stayed together a few more minutes alone before Saki came back from her shopping. However, those minutes hid a certain awkwardness, unlike before. 

Chapter Text

Sunday was the most relaxing day Saki had in a while. She was able to get a chill morning with Honami before band practice after lunch. The sweets she brought were very appreciated during their break, and Saki started feeling confident about their new song. Afterwards, her shift at her job was relatively slow... It felt like the rain dissuaded the annoying customers to come despite it being a Sunday.  

When she arrived home, only silence awaited her. Her parents still were on that business trip of theirs and Tsukasa was at Nene’s house, having a sleepover with his whole troupe.  

This was the most silence she had in a week. As relaxing as it was, she would be lying if she said that there wasn’t a part of her that found this kind of evening terribly lonely. 

Monday announced another rough week as her first class started with a surprise test on last week’s subject. 

At practice, she kept missing the beat on a technically complicated part of Leo/Need’s newest song. She smiled and kept apologizing. Even though Shiho showed herself understanding of her errors, Saki couldn’t help but being harsh her herself. She firmly believed that she was past the level to make mistakes on this kind of errors.  

She came home mentally drained once again and collapsed on her bed for about an hour to recover. When she convinced herself to focus and open her books once again, her brother came back home, loud as ever. Now, that wasn’t a distraction per say, as she almost looked forward to greeting her brother. He always knew how to make her laugh and cheer her up. 

She greeted her brother as usual, somewhat startled. She somewhat half-expected Rui to be there, and yet he wasn’t. Her brother acted like normal, sign that everything was fine. She happily concluded that they were actually able to stay away from each other occasionally. She spent a solid 30 minutes of socialization with her brother and went back to her studies until it was time for supper. Afterwards, she practiced hard on her piano, repeating the problematic part over and over so that it could imprint itself into her muscle memory. 

Tuesday’s day at school was more relax, as her teachers decided against spicing things up and giving anxiety to the whole class. However, with mathematics being, well, mathematics... Saki ended her school day with a headache. 

Sometimes she wondered how she would get through her day without Ichika’s kind encouragements or Honami’s warm smile.  

She didn’t have any schedule activity at that time and would’ve rushed home if a certain apple tart lover didn’t convince her to go get some treats after school. Saki’s headache almost magically disappeared thanks to the sweet treats that melted under her tongue.  

Most notably, she was able to clear her mind thanks to her friend who kindly offered a shoulder for Saki to rest on. 

Healed, Saki came home believing she might be able to have a productive evening. How wrong was she. In her distracted state, she didn’t realize that Tsukasa and Rui were already in the house and thought herself to be the only one on the property.  

Saki went through another meal full of cringe where she couldn’t help but roll her eyes a few times in front of the blatant flirting of the two older boys. 

Little did she know that a lightbulb lit up in the director’s eyes that day. 

This seemingly insignificant realization from Rui’s part was about to shake poor Saki’s Wednesday. 

Wednesday was an average day: unexciting classes and regular practice that thankfully went better than the one on Monday. Saki did expect the presence of her brother’s boyfriend at the house and thus came in with an already zoomed out expression. She greeted her brother by habit and practically immediately locked herself in her room. 

But not even a minute after she sat down at her desk, someone knocked on her door. 

“Big brother, is something-” 
She opened the door expecting it to be Tsukasa, but it was Rui who was holding a finger in front of his mouth, shushing her softly. Saki stopped herself midsentence, surprised. 

The purple haired boy whispered nervously. 

“Could I talk to you, Tenma?” 

“Sure?” Saki was unsure why he was speaking more politely than usual. 

Rui gave a nervous glance in Tsukasa’s direction. Her brother was mumbling aloud, seemingly reading a play. Saki frowned. What was this about?  

Hesitantly, she opened her door further and allowed Rui to enter. Nodding softly, he came in. 

The door closed behind them.  

Saki crossed her arms and stared at Rui with uncertainty. 

“What is this about?” 

Rui nervously laughed. Saki realized that she never saw the boy so nervous before. If anything, she would’ve thought that he didn’t understand the concept. 

“Well, it’s just... when sometimes I interact with your brother, I realized that you looked at us with annoyance, and it seems pretty evident to me that you already noticed what is going on...” 
 

Saki clapped her hands in understanding. Rui noticed that she noticed about their relationship! She could finally voice her dislike of being a third wheel! 

“Oh! So, I don’t have to act as if I didn’t know anymore! Great! It was really hard to act as if I didn’t hear you constantly making out. By the way, could you please ask Tsukasa to be less loud? It makes it hard to concentrate.” 

Rui didn’t seem reassured by her words. If anything he seemed stunned. 

“Hum, what? Sa- Erm. Tenma, I assure you that me and your brother never have been that intimate.” 
 

Saki deadpanned. “You know I can hear him scream your name from here right?” 

Rui’s ears became red as he froze a few seconds. 

“Wait, no, I’m just teasing him, I doubt Tsukasa would even want to kiss me.” 

Saki seemed surprised. 

“Why wouldn’t Tsukasa want to kiss his boyfriend?” 

“B-Boyfriend?” 

Rui spoke the word with a mix of hope and confusion, causing Saki to frown. 

“I thought that you noticed that I realized you two were dating?” 

“B-But we’re not? I thought you realized that I like your brother.” 

Saki froze... and then anger took over. She angrily pointed towards Rui, pushing him back until his back hit the door. She stopped herself from yelling and whispered angrily. 

“Are you telling me that you’ve been flirting and acting like this with my brother for weeks, without being in a proper relationship with him? Rui, I assure you, my brother isn’t someone whose feelings you can just play with-” 

Rui interrupted her with a calm and serious tone. 

“I assure you, I am serious about your brother and would want nothing more than to date him.” 
Saki calmed down and seemed even more confused. At that reaction, Rui continued. 

“I’ve been... sending hints to Tsukasa. And once I saw doing that wasn’t working, I tried different things to see if he liked me back. I tried to see how close he’d let me, and well, that was probably what you witnessed. However...” 

Rui sighed in front of a very shocked Saki. 

“It seemed he only let me close because he saw me as a friend. Y-You see, I did try to erm... … Make a move? And well, Tsukasa didn’t- And- And I thought you knew that and wanted me to back off?” 
 

Saki shrugged as if it wasn’t a big deal. “I mean, if my brother had rejected you and I saw you still act like this towards him, I’d probably ask you that yes.” 

Rui laughed nervously. “Well, the thing is- I- I tried. To back off. But then Tsukasa would come to me and look at me with those- those terrible puppy eyes. And ask me why I’m acting distant now, and if I was angry at him. I just can’t-” 

Saki nodded along. “Yes, I know for a fact that it is very difficult to refuse my brother’s puppy eyes. In that scenario, you’d have to tell him why you aren’t comfortable doing this with him anymore, as it holds a different meaning to the both of you. Huh, so you did come here to give me an explanation.” 
 
Rui nodded nervously, causing Saki to chuckle a little. 

“Well, I suppose that if you did tell him that, it would get rid of the problem. Sure, go tell my brother you can’t be all cuddly with him anymore because you like him.” 
 
Rui paled. “B-But, then he’d feel bad, and he’ll see me differently. I don’t want him to feel uncomfortable working with me in our troupe because of my unrequited feelings-” 

Saki smirked at Rui. “Well, that would be too bad right? Thankfully for you, Tsukasa likes you back.” 

“That’s... not possible. He can’t. If he did, he would’ve kissed me. He even emphasized that we were just friends yesterday at Nene’s...” 

Saki was very confused, as she was missing a lot of contexts. Rui noticed it and told her how he tried to kiss him Saturday night, when Saki was absent. How Tsukasa took the ‘out’ when Rui created an opportunity for them to kiss. 

He also told her that one of Emu’s brothers saw the scene, and that it led Emu to believe that they were together. 

Rui smiled nervously. “So she rushed to see us when we arrived and said ‘I’m so happy you two are finally together! IT’S SO WONDERHOY!!’ I could see Tsukasa tense under the hug she gave us. He immediately denied it, he said we were just friends many times and that we were just exploring an idea for a show. Ah... In the end, we are going to make a show with this scene, but Emu and Nene will be the leads. Tsukasa didn’t even ask to be one of the leads, which is something he never did! He is the one who insisted them to take on the roles.” 

Saki sighed, exasperated once she realized what happened. 

“Did you ever try to properly confess to him while acting serious? Not under the excuse of a show, nor while teasing him? When you tried to be forward with my brother, was there a single moment where you didn’t hide under some kind of excuse or act?” 

Rui stayed silent. 

“Well?” 

“N-No... I mean those were genuine attempts but-” 

Saki felt the urge to bang her head against the wall and spoke in a slightly too loud manner: 
“WELL NO SHIT! How do you expect my brother to take you seriously when you keep playing with the line between playing around and seriously pursuing him? Ahhh, now I understand why he kept bringing me as a third wheel...” 
 

“What?” Rui seemed confused.  

“My brother is fairly oblivious, I’ll give you that. But it’s- it’s not just that.” 

She tried to think of how to explain it, but her thought process was interrupted by Tsukasa, was approaching her room: “Saki? Are you ok? Why did you scream?” 

As they heard him, both Saki and Rui froze. A few moments later, Tsukasa knocked on the door. 

“Saki, can I come in?” 

“S-Sure, of course!” 

Saki answered without thinking, she felt nervous but it’s not like she was doing anything bad right? Tsukasa was surprised to see Rui in her room after opening the door and frowned a little. He sounded cold, unlike usual. 

“Did Rui bother you Saki?” 

“What? No-” Saki started and wasn’t sure how to continue. She looked at Rui and realized that the director was too nervous to react and help her out. “We just- Had a little argument that’s all.” 

Tsukasa sighed in relief, but still looked at her with an understanding gaze. “Are you okay?” 

Saki was, in Tsukasa’s eyes, the most kind and innocent being on Earth. He couldn’t imagine her being mean to Rui, but he could imagine a misunderstanding happening and Rui startling her. (Saki was not, in fact, the most kind and innocent being on Earth.) 

Saki felt a little bad for Rui. 

“Yes, it’s just... I got frustrated because I realized how dumb Rui could be.” 
However, it didn’t mean that she would lie to her brother. 

Tsukasa looked at Saki a moment and chuckled. He was utterly confused, the statement coming out from Saki’s mouth was the last thing he expected. 

“Rui? Dumb? Are you sure we are talking about the same person? Rui might be the smartest person I know.” 

“Hey, I’m being serious!” 

Tsukasa sighed in... relief? “So, what happened? Are you two alright?” 

He looked at both Saki and Rui this time with a slight smile. Rui needed a few seconds to register his question and faked a smile. 

“Why, yes! I was just asking if Saki wanted to participate in our next little idea hehe, but it sounds like she wasn’t quite interested... how sad. I’ll have to make do with only you.” 
“Wha- DON’T INVOLVE MY SISTER IN YOUR WEIRD PRANKS! And, what do you mean with only me?? I’m the best star!” 

“Well, that goes without saying dear Tsukasa, but I thought that having Saki help me record how long you can fly while I operate the newest canon would give me more precise results... How sad that she didn’t agree with the idea.” 

Saki stayed silent. What an experimented liar. 

Thankfully for Rui, Tsukasa seemed to let go of the issue. 

“Rui, I’m not going inside a canon again. Stop bothering my sister and come back upstairs with me. I’m almost done reviewing the script. Sorry Saki, I’ll call you for supper.” 

Tsukasa gently pulled Rui’s sleeve as he went back upstairs, closing the door behind them. 

Once she was hidden from her brother’s view, Saki grabbed her phone and texted Emu for Rui’s contact. Thankfully, she was able to obtain it with no troubles, though the pink girl was curious why she needed it. 

Saki replied it was because Rui asked for some advice for a surprise for Tsukasa. Emu seemed to believe that, saying how amazing that was and that Tsukasa must be very excited. Though, knowing Emu, she might spill the beans somehow. 

Saki would have to convince Rui to buy her brother a gift. Oh well, not her money. 

She registered the new contact and typed what she couldn’t say earlier due to the interruption. 

You know that my brother is happy-go-lucky, right? Well, he will react if someone insults him in his face, but with time, he got used to people laughing about him behind his back. Those same people wore masks in front of him, acting as if everything was fine... But even if he’s used to it, he’s still scared.

He’s also been hurt by people who he felt close to, and those are the ones who did the most damage to him really. His ex best friend especially. That jerk was by Tsukasa’s side since elementary school, and well, with time, I suppose that he didn’t like Tsukasa as much. But he did like how dedicated Tsukasa was to him. 

He used to butter him up, act as if Tsukasa was the most important person to him, as if their bond was unbreakable. He’d ask Tsukasa to hang out with him at the last minute when he had nothing and expected him to make time for him no matter when. However, if there was a party at the same time as he promised to hang out with my brother, he’d ditch him without even texting him. But somehow, he kept Tsukasa at his beck and call for years, and I couldn’t do anything... My brother believed firmly in his friend.

Until he heard him shit talk about him one day. Saying how he kept Tsukasa close because he was buying him snacks and obeyed him well. Saying that he never cared for Tsukasa. It broke his heart. 

I mean, I don’t think he was in love with him or anything! But Tsukasa still cared about him dearly, he was his closest friend at the time. Since then, though, I’ve noticed that my brother is more guarded towards people. He won’t trust them merely by their words. He trusts in actions over sweet promises.

I’m not saying he doesn’t trust you! I’m sure he knows that you care about him, but he won’t let himself catch the hint unless you show him that you love him. And that you truly mean it. 

He won’t let himself believe otherwise. 

Even Tsukasa Tenma is scared of getting hurt. 

Ah, but believe me, he likes you back. Have you seen the way he looks at you? I never wanted to disappear more than on Saturday when he kept glancing at you when you weren’t looking. Yes, he does that too. Goodness, the two of you are... too much.

Please just confess to him already and make my brother happy (make him cry and I’ll find out where you live and make you regret it). Oh, and more importantly, once you are together... Please don’t make out in our house unless I’m sleeping at a friend?
My brother is loud enough as is.

Also you better surprise Tsukasa with a gift somehow, that’s how I was able to get your number. 

Oh! Right. This is Saki Tenma.

Saki sighed and let her phone down again. She lied down on her bed, digesting the information. 

All this time, she thought that her brother was in a happy relationship. But the new information explained a lot about Tsukasa’s recent behavior. 

She felt annoyed when she remembered that Rui kept probing for signs that Tsukasa loved him. Her brother’s feelings were so apparent, he might as well have ‘I’m in love with my director’ written on his forehead. Out of the two, Rui was the one that should’ve noticed the other’s feelings. 

She ended up concluding that Rui Kamishiro was a coward. 

However, Saki knew she couldn’t judge him too much. Afterall, she was one too. 

Rui went home earlier than usual today, so Tsukasa and Saki ate alone this time. The eldest wanted to make sure that she was fine, but Saki reassured him once again with a smile, and said: 

“Rui wanted some insight about something personal. Don’t worry about it, you’ll know soon. Just know that without me, he would have done something very stupid.” 

No matter how curious her brother was, Saki wouldn’t reveal more on the matter. The two started to banter a little, but Saki smiled as she saw that he was reassured by her answer. 

She looked at her brother, full of care. Even if the road so far had been rocky... 

She hoped that Rui and he would start a relationship lasting a lifetime (and, for goodness's sake, one that would exist without her in the middle). 

Chapter Text

Rui couldn’t remember a time where he didn’t love stories. At first, he was impressed by the possibilities fiction held, at how imagination helped creating worlds where concepts impossible in real life could... live. As if each new impossible idea was a new ecosystem and each story a living, breathing planet. 

Then, as he understood better the work behind those stories, he was more and more impressed not so much by the content than the conception of the story and of its elements. It was all about the craft of the illusion that such worlds were possible, real even. To bring people with you in a trip to those planets and sharing their wonders with others. 

He realized that not all stories, no matter how well crafted, were limited to their medium, the way they were presented to the public. As he tried to tell a story for the first time, he saw the huge difference between the reactions of others when listening to him versus watching a play. 

Showmanship, storytelling, acting, directing, craftsmanship... so many things he didn’t quite grasp yet were needed to put together into a melting put to bring others with him. By curiosity, he learned more and more of them. 

And succeeded into bringing others into the worlds he portrayed. And while he did it clumsily, that first taste was like a revelation. He hurried to others and tried to make them see. 

He tried so much to show them that they could reach, even barely, wonders out of the world. But no one wanted to follow him further than through spectating. Not really. 

Rui always knew what he wanted to do in life, but he did question whether it was possible from time to time. Painting worlds is a difficult job for someone who’s on their own, even with the help of robots. 

The stories he made before never felt as whole and breathtaking as the ones he did with Wonderland x Showtime. Emu and Nene helped pulling the weight of the illusion... 

And Tsukasa was the breath of life he never knew he missed. The story Rui made never seemed so vibrant, so real before, even at the start of their professional relationship. 

Not because he was an acting genius, but rather because he was truly able to bring the audience with him, to make a link between the stage and them. The star had a charisma that when he used to perform, it was difficult to look away. 

The more he looked, the more fascinated Rui was. Not just towards their craft. But by the captivating personality of the actor. 

If it were just that, and Tsukasa’s hardworking quality, Rui’s feelings might have ended at respect and admiration. 

But the star didn’t only shine on the stage, but also illuminated Rui’s life. 

From the trust he held for Rui (in and out of the stage), to his adorable, exaggerated reactions. From his determination to his frustration when he felt stuck. His pure, breathtaking smile... Everything about Tsukasa was shining. And Rui always stood so close to that sun, that he inevitably fell hard for his star. 

Rui had felt like an observer for most of his life, seeing other people’s stories from afar. In that position, he felt like he could predict the twists and turns of one’s story (well, most of the time). 

The moment he himself was an actor, things felt more complicated, and the consequences more disastrous.  

He loved Tsukasa.  

He loved him so much that he’d never, ever show him how much his heart was burning. 

Because if the moth were to embrace the flame, there was no salvation. 

Rui loved Tsukasa. 

But Tsukasa would never love Rui. 

And even if he did, keeping Tsukasa close was more important than a teenager’s love folly. 

Rui loved Tsukasa.  

But Rui could never show his love for him. 

Otherwise, he’d lose his warm star. 

The flow of time is an interesting concept. Things could sometimes feel so fleeting. Rui started slowly to realize that Wonderland x Showtime won’t last eternally. He kept pushing the idea away however, not wanting to face it just yet. 

Nonetheless, no matter how unconscious that idea was, it was enough to allow Rui’s greed to grow. Under little pretenses, teasing actions, he couldn’t help but approach the object of his attention. 

Letting his hand linger on his. 

“Innocently” resting his head on Tsukasa’s shoulder. 

Petting Tsukasa’s hair while showering him in praises after a show. 

Rui kept playing with the limit of physical intimacy between friends. 

At first, he thought he was imagining the blush on Tsukasa’s face, or the discreet ‘glances’ the blonde gave him.  

But when they became more and more frequent, a possibility came into his mind. 

That perhaps, just maybe, his affection wasn’t one sided. 

However, Rui felt like those actions weren’t enough to prove his theory. If he were to act, he’d have to truly be sure that Tsukasa liked him.  

Not that the star had a crush, or an interest. Those were too fleeting to deserve the risk of losing his best friend.  

Rui spent countless hours thinking how to test the blonde’s feelings without catching his suspicions. 

At that time, he was unaware that those “plans” of his made Tsukasa panic internally for hours.  

But that’s something he won’t realize for a long time still. 

He found that Tsukasa didn’t mind if he clung more to him. A certain feeling of pride blossomed in his stomach as he saw the most delightful shade of red paint on the blonde’s cheeks at his actions... How he’d cause him to stutter and to forget his words. 

He didn’t know whether it was a good or a bad sign. 

Kind Tsukasa, selfless Tsukasa, might not be able to refuse affection that he might not be totally comfortable with. 

Rui was almost scared that Tsukasa would start avoiding him... but he was pleasantly surprised when the blonde came to him first one day, with open arms, waiting for a hug. 

He couldn’t shake off the image of his crush, flustered but happy to hug him, for the rest of the day (and night. He didn’t sleep as he just laid down on his bed with a big grin. The way Tsukasa hovered next to him on the next day, both worried about him and gently nagging him, was just... Rui couldn’t explain how the bliss he felt despites his tiredness). 

But Tsukasa barely hugged people besides his family (and Emu, but Rui was already aware that Tsukasa had no interest in women). Tsukasa might just be shy due to the fact that his physical interactions with others was limited.  

In that mindset, Rui allowed himself to be more forward towards Tsukasa. He decided to see what would happen were he to stay at an intimate distance from Tsukasa. He wanted to see how much Tsukasa will let him do before becoming uncomfortable.  

He started eating (cough stealing cough) Tsukasa’s food, sharing drinks ‘innocently’, let his touch linger on Tsukasa’s body when giving posture tips for acting... 

Sometimes, Tsukasa wouldn’t react any differently, causing Rui to pout internally. But sometimes his cheeks reddened, and he looked at Rui with shy doe eyes. This reaction from Tsukasa was so delightful that Rui felt himself grow addicted to the view. At times, Rui forgot his goal and merely tried to make the lead replicate that expression he grew so fond of. 

Rui kept teasing Tsukasa, to the boy’s annoyance, but he was never truly pushed away. That only encouraged Rui to continue his ‘tests’. 

Friday the 3rd 

Tsukasa arrived to school just on time. It was odd, as Tsukasa was often more than 10 minutes early to school due to his balanced sleep schedule and his somehow never-ending energy. Rui was even surprised to hear that the blonde overslept. 

Tsukasa? Oversleeping? He wasn’t sure it was possible. Just in case, Rui checked the smaller boy’s temperature in case he hid a sickness again, but he was fine. 

Once his worries gone, Rui couldn’t help but notice that Tsukasa’s hair was messier than usual and that his normally neat-looking uniform was put in a hurry. 

He had misaligned his buttons and his tie was slightly loose... it almost looked like someone messed around with the boy in the morning. 

Rui blamed his creative brain for imagining himself be the cause of Tsukasa’s messy appearance. Imagining himself dragging the blonde in the bathroom, pull on his tie, get a few buttons undone so he could have access to that fair soft-looking neck. 

Rui felt himself drooling at the thought and shook his head discreetly to get a grip. Tsukasa was not his (yet), he shouldn’t think- 

No, Tsukasa wasn’t his and he wasn’t even sure he’d ever be able to date such a wonderful, sweet guy. 

He tried to concentrate on the class and failed miserably. It was far too boring. Rui mindlessly looked at the clock as he waited for the time to pass and hurried out the moment the bell rang. 

Without even thinking, he found himself in front of Tsukasa’s classroom. By the time he had realized where he was, the blonde was happily waving at him. Rui’s heart quickened its pace at the sight of the dazzling smile Tsukasa was giving him. 

(And at the realization that Tsukasa’s neck was still left slightly uncovered.) 

Rui took Tsukasa’s hand without thinking. “Wait Tsukasa, your uniform is a bit loose, come I’ll help you fix it.” 
 
Tsukasa tiredly blinked as Rui took him to a less frequented hallway of the school. He confusedly nodded, trusting Rui enough to not ask questions. “Alright? Sure, knock yourself out.” 

Rui suddenly felt a bit ashamed as his previous thoughts came back to his mind as he saw Tsukasa alone and looking at him with such trust.  

He quickly composed himself and hid his embarrassment with a sly grin. The director leaned towards the blonde, closer to those soft lips he dreamed of. He spoke in his usual annoying teasing voice that riled the other boy so much. 

“Aww, poor Tsukasa... Did you have a rough morning? Look at you, your buttons are not properly done. And your tie? Have you forgotten how to properly put it on? Thank god I spotted you before Shiraishi did. We wouldn’t want you to get in troubles.” 

Tsukasa’s brain seemed to shut down as Rui slowly unbuttoned the top of his shirt and rebuttoned it properly, as they both stood so close to each other. He’s face gradually became a vivid red and his mouth opened without making a sound. 

The taller boy chuckled at how adorable the other was when stunned. 

Finally, once Rui was almost done with his first task, the usually loud blonde was able to utter a few embarrassed words. 

“R-Rui! Don’t do that!”  

Neither of them saw a younger girl witness the scene. 

“Relax. No one saw.”  

Rui spoke nonchalantly as he then fastened Tsukasa’s tie.  

“T-That’s not the point! You can’t just do that out of nowhere!”  

Rui couldn’t shake a smug grin off his face. He knew that tone. That was the tone Tsukasa had whenever he’d propose a special prank. He felt relieved as Tsukasa didn’t seem to want to push him away. He faked an easy-going smile and continued with the teasing. 

“Hmmm? I just wanted to help you Tsukasa, and here I thought you appreciated my help... You pain me!”  
“That’s not!” Silence. “Aaah- fine for this time. Just tell me in advance next time ok?”  

“Oh? So you don’t mind it. You find me relieved.” 

… Tsukasa looked at him with a mixture of indignation and acceptance. Rui gently combed the blonde soft hair in front of him as best as he could with a hand. He cherished every second of that precious intimacy and of the attention that was given to him. He almost sighed as he knew he didn’t have any more excuses to stay so close. 

But he didn’t want the moment to end so soon. He looked deep into the other’s shining orange eyes and spoke in a more serious, softer tone. 

“Here you go, all perfect as usual, fitting for a star.” 

Tsukasa gently nodded, shy, but still held Rui’s gaze. The lead tugged on Rui’s sleeve, a gesture that Rui couldn’t quite grasp the meaning behind.  

“T-Thanks Rui.” 

Rui gulped as he was unable to look away from the smaller boy. He felt as if entranced and started to slowly close the gap between them. Tsukasa didn’t move away, seemingly in a similar state. 

That tension was about to bloom into something more when a buzz was heard. Tsukasa almost jumped and reached for his phone inside his pocket. He stepped away, breaking the moment forever and looked at his phone. Nervously, he looked back at Rui. 

“O-Oh, my sister is on the roof, she brought my lunch.” 

Rui nodded, and there was a silence that lasted a few seconds. He saw the blonde let go of a relieved sigh. 

“Alright, let’s go.” 

Rui slowly followed behind, his heart torn between elation, disappointment and... tearing. 

He couldn’t help but rewind the moment Tsukasa sighed in such a way. Did he go too far? Did he imagine that the boy’s silent approval? 

He sat next to Nene as Tsukasa spoke to his sister, not daring to look at him anymore.  

That event was what started the misunderstanding between Saki and the two of them. 

Sunday the 5 th

Rui still struggled to look at Tsukasa properly since the last incident. He felt ashamed, stressed, scared...  

But he still put on an act and concentrated on their practices. He may or may not have spoken a bit more coldly to Tsukasa in the process (when Rui tries to repress his emotions, he often talks in a colder, ‘rational’ tone), but he still professionally conducted the practice and gave the blonde all the constructive criticism he needed.  

He didn’t avoid him, so why did Tsukasa come looking for him with a concerned voice after practice?  

Rui was about to leave after making sure that everything was clean backstage. He already had urged the rest of the cast to go home, partly because he wanted to be alone for a bit. 

But Tsukasa remained on the site somehow. As Rui walked out of the door, Tsukasa was about to enter it, and the two boys almost bumped into each other. Rui stepped back a bit. 

“R-Rui!” The blonde was surprised to see him, but then his voice shifted to an odd mix of worry and relief. “I- I wanted to talk to you. Can I have a moment of your time?” 

Rui’s eyes properly met Tsukasa’s for the first time since Friday. Tsukasa looked so lost and scared, yet his gaze remained honest and trusting. The famed Tenma puppy eyes. Refusing anything to someone looking at you like this in such a manner felt like committing a crime against humanity. 

(Though Akito had mentioned that Toya somehow? Inherited the technique? It was yet to be proven, but researching more on the matter would be considered highly unethical.) 

And Rui was probably the one the person the most vulnerable to the specific puppy eyes of Tsukasa Tenma. His heart almost squeezed in pain at the sight. 

“Of course Tsukasa, what is it?” His lips quivered involuntarily. 

“Rui... Have I upset you somehow?” Tsukasa looked so worried so hurt- Rui froze as the blonde approached him to an intimate distance and tugged on Rui’s sleeve a little. “It’s just- you feel off. I don’t know how to explain it but, it’s like...” 

Tsukasa’s voice became uncharacteristically quiet. “Like you don’t want to talk to me?” 

Rui was a genius in many fields. Mathematics, history, programming, science, linguistics, … He was a pro (or so he thought) at stopping himself before acting and thinking rationally. 

But once he heard Tsukasa’s misunderstanding, an alarm rang in his head and the ‘rational’ part of his brain was pushed aside by his need to soothe the boy as fast as he could. He pulled Tsukasa in a warm hug and gently brushed his hair without a single thought. 

“Of course not. Talking with you is always a delight Tsukasa. I just had a lot on my mind.” 

“Really?” Good, Tsukasa’s voice was a little bit louder, hopeful even. 

“Of course. There is nothing you could do to upset me. Plus, you know I don’t hesitate to voice it when someone do bother me.” 

Tsukasa mumbled something that Rui couldn’t quite catch.

“Hmm? Did you say something Tsukasa?” 

“No, I mean, I just- I hope whatever is bothering you will soon be fixed. I mean, we can't have our dear director so distressed!” 
 

Tsukasa was back to his usual boisterous voice, which made Rui laugh a little. Somehow, Tsukasa always succeeded in making him smile. 

Rui felt a wave of tiredness hit him as he finally relaxed. It slowly hit him that Tsukasa wasn’t off put by his previous actions, or at least that Tsukasa wasn’t thinking less of him. 

The director blinked and during that short moment of darkness, he felt a warm touch on his cheek. Confused by the feeling, his eyes fluttered open. 

Tsukasa was leaning closer, looking at him with concern. He gently rubbed the skin under the taller boy’s eyes. Rui’s heart fluttered at the proximity. He held his breath and hoped his flustered state wouldn’t be too noticeable for the actor in front of him. 

“I knew it. You’re tired. You act like you are fine, but it seems like the makeup couldn’t properly hide your bags anymore. Rui, did you sleep at all last night?” 

“Oh, I have slept, I assure you.” 
“How much?” 

“Maybe... 5 hours?” 

Tsukasa’s worried expression turned into a scowl as he clicked his tongue. Oops, wrong answer. 

“... and a half? Probably?” 

“Rui, when are you going to take better care of yourself?” Tsukasa flicked the other’s forehead before continuing. “I haven’t seen you eat much today either. You do know you need energy to function right?” 

“Hey, just because you don’t see me eat doesn’t mean I don’t.”  

“Did you eat enough though?” 
Rui stayed silent a little before conceding. 

“I left in a hurry, so I only packed some quick snacks to eat. But I bought something from Phenix Wonderland? Tsukasa, I’m fine-” 

“No you’re not!” Tsukasa exclaimed a little louder than usual. Meaning quite loud. He seemed like he felt guilty about it and looked away. 

Rui tried to ignore the way his heart squeezed a little as Tsukasa stepped away from him. The blonde tried to compose himself with a few deep breaths and faced Rui once again with determination. 

“I never saw you close yourself to me... … to us like that Rui. All I see is my best friend, visibly exhausted, trying to deal with something all on his own and shutting me... … shutting all of us out! If ensuring you get enough nutrients daily is the only thing that I can do to help you, I will do so, even if I have to feed you myself!” 

Tsukasa grabbed Rui’s hand and headed out of the attraction park. 

“Wait, Tsukasa, where are you taking me?” 
“I’m going to get us some food, obviously.” 

Rui gaped at Tsukasa’s answer. 

“Listen, you don’t have to-” 
But Tsukasa smiled as he turned his head towards Rui, and unknowingly pierced his heart. 

“But I want to. Won’t my director let me treat him a meal?” 

Rui felt heat grow to his cheek. The idea of spending some free time alone with the star was too tempting to refuse. He merely nodded, as for once the words didn’t go out of his mouth. 

Tsukasa had to have noticed (at least somewhat) the flustered state of the taller boy, because he chuckled at the sight. 

“Well, looks like for once you’re the one who’s speechless. You know, I think I understand a little better why you tease me so much now.” 

Rui’s heart thumped. No matter how much he tried to convince himself to give up on having a relationship with Tsukasa, this simple little moment filled him with hope. 

Because Tsukasa cared, because Rui was able to make his star laugh and smile... 

Because Tsukasa implied that he liked teasing him. Ok, no, maybe that was a bit far-fetched. 

No, it was probably because Tsukasa allowed him so close that Rui couldn’t help but be greedy and to cling to the slightest hope of reciprocation. 

Tsukasa was his love, his star. Tsukasa brightened his world, but Rui knew. Tsukasa would end him someday.  

The blonde led him to a cozy restaurant, a small place specializing in curry. 

It seemed like Rui wouldn’t escape vegetables in front of Tsukasa. 

“Nooo, how could you do this to me? Forcing me to eat these- these nasty things! Tsukasa, I thought we were friends!” 

“Rui, stop it! Just eat already!” 

“But I don’t wanna eat vegetablesss-” Rui gave a forced pout to Tsukasa. Was he trying to get the blonde to feed him like he said earlier? 

Yes. 

Was it enough to make it so that Tsukasa feeds him by habit? 

Absolutely. 

Tuesday the 7th 

Tsukasa’s sister decided to attend their practice for some reason.  

While nothing noteworthy happened, Rui was confused about her giving him ‘her approval’. He wasn’t sure what that was for, but he suspected that she was scared that he might endanger Tsukasa somehow. 

Rui felt like he had grown closer to the one he loved lately. Or rather, that Tsukasa initiated physical contact more often than usual. The fact that the other boy leaned on his shoulder as they talked about their project; that he seemed to enjoy it as well when Rui played with his hair; that he sought him for reassurance... It made Rui feel extremely lucky and privileged.  

And the way Tsukasa admitted to wanting more praise... It triggered impure thoughts in Rui’s head, of how Tsukasa would react thanks to certain words, of all the beautiful words the star deserved. A door had been opened that Rui shut with haste as he concentrated on the conversation he had with Tsukasa. 

He didn’t know how obvious his affections were to the eyes of other people (excluding Tsukasa). 

Sooner than he wished, Tsukasa had to leave with his sister. Rui looked away when the other had to hurry to change, but the whole time he felt as if his body was on fire. It should be normal; men would often change in the same room without a care. 

But because of his feelings for the blonde, Rui couldn’t allow himself to look, whether now or in the past. It was as if Tsukasa was too sacred for his eyes. 

The dream he had that night seemed to disagree with that notion. 

Thursday the 9 th

Rui didn’t make it a habit to check the weather before leaving from his house. From time to time, Nene would warn Rui about rain or snow depending on the seasons... but no, on this day, she had forgotten.  

After school, Rui would look at the down pour with hesitation, before rushing in. He saw no other choice than to hurry to the bus stop. The water didn’t take long to soak through his hair and his shirt, yet he kept rushing forward. 

A distant pitter-patter soon became louder, someone was running behind him, as if trying to catch up with him. 

A familiar voice tinted with worry called out his name. Instinctively, Rui stopped and turned around and saw Tsukasa running towards him. 

“Haaa, I finally caught up to you! What are you doing running in the rain like that? You’ll get sick!” 
Tsukasa wrapped an arm around Rui and pulled him so that they would share the umbrella. “The rain should stop tonight, why don’t you stop by my house until then?” 
 

Rui had to stop a smile from crawling to his face. The idea of spending some time with the blonde was quite pleasing (the thought of escaping the rain was a nice bonus). 

“Why not? If you’re inviting me, I have no reason to refuse. But I do wonder if it’s another trick of yours to make me eat more vegetables. Unless you plan on making me leave with an empty stomach?” Rui teased as he stayed close to Tsukasa (partially) to remain in the umbrella’s protection. 

“Pfff, I wasn’t thinking about it this way, but that is a good idea. You won’t be able to sneak your vegetables away in my own domain! Ah, unless you tell me that you don’t wish to eat my cooking?” 
Tsukasa gave him a an “innocent” look, as if he knew very well that Rui wouldn’t be able to refuse. 

The director laughed a little. “Of course not, I wouldn’t be able to reject food that my dear friend worked so hard to make. Alas for my poor stomach, it seems that I am doomed to eat those abominations yet again.” 

Their banter continued until they arrived at the Tenma home, at which point Tsukasa acted as a concerned host. 

“Oh, you must be so cold! I’m going to bring you a towel and warm socks quickly... Just, come in! You can go upstairs to my room, I’ll come soon.” 

As Tsukasa hurried quickly at the speed of an excited Emu, Rui quickly took off his shoes and his drenched cardigan as he headed to the blonde’s room. He sat down on the desk’s chair and looked around as he waited. He rarely came here without the rest of Wonderland x Showtime, so the feeling of being alone in this room, surrounded by Tsukasa’s scent, felt a little odd. Good, but different in a way. 

He didn’t have to wait long, as Tsukasa soon went up the stairs as well. However, contrary to Rui’s expectations, instead of rushing to his side and showing him the items he brought, Tsukasa froze a little as he was still in the staircase.  

“Is everything ok Tsukasa? You seem deep in thoughts.” 
“O-Oh, I’m fine, I just- I had a blank, that’s all.” 
Rui arched an eyebrow, but Tsukasa quickly came in front of him and kneeled. 

“Here Rui, let me help you.” Tsukasa looked at him in the eyes with... was that a blush on his face? The view created a smile on the taller boy’s face. 

Tsukasa attempted to dry Rui’s hair with a towel. While a little rough as he scrubbed his head, Rui found the feeling pleasant. He closed his eyes as he enjoyed the feeling. 

“Thank you, Tsukasa.” 
“No problem! I wouldn’t want our... director to... get sick.” 
Tsukasa’s movements became slower and he seemed to space out. Rui opened his eyes and was delighted to see his crush blushing. He noticed that his eyes seemed to look down on Rui’s body. He followed his gaze and realized that the white shirt he was wearing was slightly see-through because of the rain. That made him chuckle. 

“Enjoying the view future star? My eyes are up here, you know?” 

Tsukasa seemed to snap out of a trance as he shamefully looked back to Rui’s face. Rui found it adorable as he started to stutter. 

“A-Ah. S-Sorry, I didn’t mean to- I-I was just thinking that I probably need to lend you a shirt. Aah- I think I should have one to your size.” 
 
Rui’s eyes softened as Tsukasa hurried like a small squirrel to look inside his drawers for a shirt. 

“Urg, where did I put it... Ah! Wait here it is!” 
Any clothes that were wrinkled in the process of the search were carefully folded once again and placed with care. Tsukasa always took care of everything he owned. 

(‘He seemed to want to take good care of Rui as well’, said a little intrusive voice inside Rui’s head.) 

(‘He acts like that with all the people he cares for’, argued Rui’s rational brain.) 
 

Tsukasa beamed as he handed the shirt to Rui.  

“Here you go, that’s my biggest shirt so I think it should fit you.” 

Rui looked at the purple shirt with surprise. It didn’t seem to fit Tsukasa’s usual style, but then again, he never saw him wear it before. 

“Thank you, Tsukasa”, said Rui as he looked at the boy with mischievous eyes. He slowly removed his wet shirt and then grabbed the towel to dry his body. At the same time, he eyed Tsukasa’s reaction carefully. 

The star couldn’t keep his eyes off Rui at the moment. He was blushing and gulping a little as Rui ensured that he was no longer wet. That reaction boosted Rui’s pride and hope a little. 

He felt like he was always getting mixed signals, but if Tsukasa was looking at him like that, then he had to feel at least something right? He couldn’t help but tease him a little. 

“Ooooh? Aren’t you staring a bit much Tsukasa? If I didn’t know better, I’d say you were just making excuses to undress me.”  

“R-Rui, that’s not it, stop teasing me-”  
“Hmm? Are you sure? You seem quite flustered Tsukasa.”  
“I- I mean... I knew you were toned from performing with you but... seeing you from close is... something else- I didn’t mean-”  
“Is that so? Well, your admiration is quite flattering my star. You know, I wouldn’t mind if-”  
  
“I’M HOME BIG BROTHER!” A voice rang from downstairs, breaking the moment. Tsukasa immediately turned away and replied to her. 

As Tsukasa went to greet his sister, Rui put on the shirt. To his surprise, it fit him perfectly, as if it was him that owned the shirt. But the smell coming from it affirmed that it was truly Tsukasa’s shirt. 

Rui found himself finding the shirt quite warm and comfortable.  

Saturday the 11 th

An almost date with Tsukasa (that was accompanied by his sister) felt amazing to Rui. Seeing him smile and laugh, even scream in fear at the haunted house, would never get old: anything the star did was breathtaking. The sister surprisingly made herself discreet, and Rui didn’t find himself pushed away and stuck walking behind the siblings as they talked, contrary to his expectations. 

(Rui wasn’t aware that Saki was the one acting as a third wheel that day.) 

As she went away at the end of the day, Rui felt bold enough to try out an idea that was stuck in his head for a while. He put on some music and pulled the one he loved into a dance. 

The moment felt magical, he loved feeling their bodies so close, feeling Tsukasa’s breath hit his own. He loved how Tsukasa actively participated in both his little improvisation and the dance, how soft and loving his gaze seemed, how his cheeks were painted in pink. 

He felt himself grow bold. He leaned towards him, yearning for a kiss. 

He wasn’t sure of the star’s consent however, so he gave him an out, a way to escape from the situation. 

And he took the exit, and Rui felt his heart break a little. 

Sunday the 12 th 

Rui was the first to arrive at Nene’s house. He spent some time with his childhood friend on the switch, challenging her to a friendly match of smash. 

And boy, did she destroy him. But it was a nice activity to pass time and forget that he had to face Tsukasa today. He hoped everything would be fine. 

Tsukasa was second to arrive, and he chatted with everyone with his usual happy tone. He sat next to Rui and leaned on his shoulder as the three of them chatted while waiting for Emu.  

Rui smiled a little. He wasn’t quite sure how the blonde felt, but he guessed that things were fine. 

Emu arrived soon after and everyone went to greet her to the door. The excited girl talked both him and Tsukasa at the same time. 

“HIIII GUYS!!! I’M SO HAPPY THAT YOU TWO ARE DATING!!! IT’S SO WONDERHOY!!! You need to tell Nene and me all about it, how you got together, and everything!”  

Rui was surprised by the pink girl’s assumption, but before he could say anything, Tsukasa answered: 

“Huh? What makes you think that? We’re just friends! Good friends, but we are definitely not dating.” 

Emu let go of the both of them, confused. “But... My brother saw you two kissing at the Wonder Stage yesterday.”  

Tsukasa continued in a loud voice. “T-That was just because we were exploring an idea for a new show! It’s about a thief and a detective and- well, I’m sure you’d love it! I think you and Nene are made to act as the leads!” 
 

Rui stopped himself from frowning at Tsukasa’s answer. Since when did he not want to act as the lead? Did he have to reject the idea so quickly? If anything, the thought seemed to offend him. It seemed that he made things up in his head. 

He felt like a fool to believe that a star so bright would be interested in him. 

Rui skillfully avoided staying too close to Tsukasa for the rest of the night by sticking to Nene, despite Tsukasa trying to team up with him in different games. If anything, he was only halfway there with his friend, ruminating in his head the whole night. 

On Monday, Rui continued to avoid physical contact with Tsukasa. He kept their interactions to a minimum. He was so much in his head that he seemed like a Rui that only Mizuki knew, a Rui Tsukasa was foreign with.  

(Rui wasn’t even aware of how much the blonde tried to run after him and spend time with him. Nor how Tsukasa look more and more hurt every time he pushed him away.) 

Tsukasa finally cornered Rui on Tuesday, pushing Rui against a wall and blocking all of his exits. He forced Rui to look at him, to finally listen. He asked what was going on, but Rui would avoid the question. 

Tsukasa tried to angrily reason him, but Rui was closed to him. After a while, he abandoned and showed a sad and hurt expression that Rui hated. 

That sad, kicked puppy expression pushed Rui to apologize, to coax the blonde. He somehow ended up agreeing to coming over once again, creating panic in his head. 

Once the day was over, Tsukasa locked his arm with Rui’s and led them to his house. Somehow, the way that Tsukasa was keeping him close made it easier for Rui to breathe, as his anxiety and circling thoughts diminished. He acted as if it was fine, as if they were fine, as if his heart was fine. 

But when Saki looked at them, unimpressed and annoyed, during supper, he knew he had to apologize to her somehow. He knew that wasn’t a proper way to act towards someone that only saw him as a friend. And by that, he meant everything. Rui wasn’t a fool [AN: debatable], he knew that he kept acting as if he was heads over heels for Tsukasa. Because he was. 

That night he cried in his bed. What a curse it was to be in love with his best friend.

Chapter Text

Saki stretched as her band took a break from practice. She had been sitting for a while and she felt the need to close and open her hand in succession to relieve stress from her fingers. She smiled as she noticed that her bandmates were all doing similar actions. They had been working pretty hard on their latest song.  

“Hmm, I think we were able to sync better this time! However... Is it just me or does it feel like there’s something missing? Like if it’s missing some energy...” Saki asked before taking a sip from her bottle. 

Shiho seemed to think a little, and then looked at Saki with determination. 

“No, you’re right, the chorus doesn’t hit as hard as it should after the bridge... I think doing some modifications to the guitar and bass part could fix it. Also... Maybe there would be a bigger impact if we made the bridge a piano and vocals solo, and then come back with all the instruments on the chorus. Well, if you are comfortable with it Saki. What do you think everyone?”  

Honami clapped her hands together and smiled in approbation. Saki was stuck a little with how adorable it seemed. “Oh! I think bringing out the piano momentarily would work perfectly to make the bridge more emotional as well, it sounds great!” 

Ichika seemed to agree as well. That sufficed to get Saki excited about the idea. 

“Well, if you all think so, then I’ll do my best! I’ll need to make some adjustments as well so that the keyboard can take more of the melody at that point, but I’ll make it sound great! Just you wait!” 

Shiho had a little smile on her face. “Just try not to overwhelm the vocals with your piano, alright?” 

“Hehe, Ichika’s voice doesn’t get buried that easily, but I’ll try to keep it in mind.” Saki smiled at the little joke. It felt great to know that despite how strict Shiho could be, she was proud of her band member’s talents. Honami, Ichika and she had been working hard to catch up with her in the past and Saki felt that Leo/Need was now approximately on the same level. Now all four of them were reaching for the stars. 

As their break was still going on, Saki checked her phone in case her parents wrote anything. They were supposed to come back tomorrow, so she was excited. 

But on her notification wall wasn’t any message from her parents, nor even from her brother. No, she seemed to have received a text from Rui. 

Rui:

Hey Tenma, thank you for your previous comments. I didn’t know that Tsukasa went through that, and now that I do know, it puts a lot into perspective. It still feels surreal to know that he might like me back... But if you think that he does and that I should ask him out... Well, I will. Considering your criticism on how I usually approach him, I am unsure of how to approach him on the matter.  

I tried to ask a few friends for advice on the matter, but I felt like it wasn’t very fructuous. One of the most reasonable ones was to make a grand gesture on the rooftop of the school or something of the like, but with what you told me, I am afraid that he would take it was an act. 

So, I am now turning to you for help, for I am unsure of how I could win your brother’s heart. 

Saki frowned as she read the messages, she could feel a headache coming. Was he REALLY asking her to help him go out with her brother ? Her own flesh and blood? The audacity! 

... Thankfully for Rui, she knew that her brother shared his feelings, otherwise she wouldn’t even try to help him out. However, that’d be a problem to deal with after her practice. Saki took a deep breath and psyched herself up. 

“Alright, girls, break is done! Let’s doooo this!” 

Honami gave the beat, and now Saki let go of her busy thoughts to leave the music lead her heart. 

Saki came home exhausted. She had spent a lot of her energy on practice. She would’ve just collapsed on her bed and rest if she hadn’t noticed that her brother seemed in lower spirit than usual. 

“Tsukasa? Are you really ok?” 

He seemed shocked by her answer. The older brother showed her a bright smile and confidently hit his chest with a fist. “Well, of course! Nothing can shake this future star! Why would you ask Saki?” 

“Well, you aren’t laughing happily to yourself as you usually do when you spend some time alone...” 

“H-Huh? I do no such thing! Why would I-” 

Saki gave him concerned puppy eyes, pleading him not to hide it. 

“Brother... you are obviously less cheerful than usual. I just want to make sure that my brother is fine...” 

Tsukasa gulped a little. 

“Well, I- It's nothing important really.” Saki’s insistent gaze make him continue his thoughts. “I am just... confused. T-There's someone... A FRIEND OF COURSE! That hum... That I love spending time with. I felt like we’ve grown closer too! And that makes me really happy! Sometimes, we have moments where it feels like... we are one mind, like everything else is just... unimportant and as if we have the world on our fingertips. It’s- It’s so powerful and overwhelming, scary but trilling!” 

Tsukasa spoke with a naive smile on his face and a bright (brighter than usual) glint shone in his eyes. Saki was ready to bet that he was unaware of how his cheeks were currently blushing.  

“That doesn’t sound like a problem really.” 

The older sibling gulped a little. His expression became sad, lost even. Saki felt the urge to take one of her piano manuals and hit Rui’s head with it. She controlled her expression not to alarm her brother, however. 

“No, it’s not, it’s just... Whenever those times happen, he would grow more distant, establishing a wall between us. I- I don’t understand. And it all somewhat goes back to normal after I follow him around for a while, but it’s just... I don’t know. I don’t know what he wants. The glimpses of intimacy he gives me makes me want more, but then it just... stops...” 

Tsukasa looked truly distraught by this, but Saki couldn’t help but cringe as she thought back to how Rui and Tsukasa acted around each other. A disgusted expression painted her face. 

“Must be nice to have relationship problems.” 

“Wha- SAKI IT’S ABOUT A FRIEND! DON’T SAY THAAT-” Her brother was now beet red. Heh. 

“Whatever you say brother. Anyway, about your problem... Have you ever shown to Rui that you didn’t mind those moments? As you said, those things are pretty scary, so maybe-” 

“RUI??? I NEVER SAID IT WAS ABOUT-” 

Saki sighed and cut her brother off. 

“I WAS SAYING- Maybe he is scared as well about the intimacy, and if you just freeze in those moments or even don’t respond... he might think that you do not want that. Have you ever shown him that you enjoyed those moments?” 

Tsukasa fell silent. “I- I don’t remember. But- It's not about Rui-” 

“Who else then? Toya? No, the only person you’ve been more and more around lately is Rui.” 

Tsukasa blushed more as he averted his gaze. Saki almost felt bad for bullying him, but it had been a long day, and she had to endure their constant flirting for a while now. She was tired now. 

“... Thank you for your opinion, Saki, I’ll think about it.” 

Saki softened a little though, she still wanted to cheer up her brother. 

“It’s no problem, really. Don’t worry Tsukasa, you are amazing! No one could dislike you, and well, if they did, your little sister will beat them up!” She huffed playfully. “Plus, it’s evident that Rui deeply cares about you. I swear, it’ll be fine.” 

“H-He does? ... Right, of course he does. I am the world’s future star after all!” 

He seemed to have cheered up a little bit, that was reassuring. She hugged her brother quickly before heading to her room. 

“Right? You’re the best, so don’t worry, I’m sure you two will figure it out! Anyway, I’m tired, so I’ll rest a bit. Good luck brother!” 

Yes, they’ll figure it out, even if she needs to lock both Rui and Tsukasa in a closet for it to work. 

She fell on her bed and opened her phone, ready to text the director to push him to just confess to her brother already. 

Saki:  

Please don’t confess in front of the whole school, while I don’t think Tsukasa will particularly care, I feel bad for all the students who’ll have to witness this. Also, it’ll put social pressure on Tsukasa.  

... But yeah, if it was the most reasonable, I’m really scared of what else your friends have proposed.  

You know my brother, just bring him somewhere meaningful to both of you, have a fun date and at the end, have a heartfelt conversation and tell him your feelings. Heck, give him a cute gift or flowers and he’ll swoon. 

That should be good enough, right? Saki was about to relax when she saw that Rui was writing back. She waited for the reply. 

Rui:  

Hmmm... that’d work better, than anything I’ve been told yes. My friends are... let’s say peculiar. I asked around, and well... 

One proposed to confess by building a canon for two people to go in and make it so that the trajectory of the shot goes through a heart. 

Someone else proposed to give him a mecha Rui to “give myself to him”, but I still don’t think that he’d take me seriously. 

The most ridiculous one was probably to just sleep with him. Like how am I??? Supposed to do that??? If I can’t even confess??? Though, knowing them, they probably just meant a sleepover, but if I do that I’ll just end up friendzoned again... 

Anyway! Would it be weird if I took him to a theater play, considering our work? I can’t think of anywhere else where he could shine with glee and be super excited, and then he’ll start taking notes and mumble adorably to himself... It’d be so nice, but I don’t know. 

A gift? Hum... do you think you could give me the simplified piano sheet of twinkle twinkle little star? The one he used to play for you. I got an idea. 

Saki felt shocked by Rui’s friends’ propositions. Just what kind of people he hanged out with?? Her fingers quickly moved on her screen to type an answer. 

Saki:  

First, please don’t simp for my brother in front of me, I don’t need to know how attractive you find him thank you very much. It’s my brother. 

Second, your friends sound... fun? Definitely creative, but please do not take their advice. Ever. In fact, just do the contrary of what they tell you. Also please don’t sleep with my brother in our house. Please. 

I can get the piano sheets. But what for? 

Rui:  

Haha, they can be a bit easy-going, but I swear, they mean well. 

I need to know what’s the note range to know what kind of comb to buy. And how to make the melody to know how to modify the cylinder. 

Saki was confused by his words but didn’t comment. She just forwarded the piano sheets as asked. She was too tired for this. 

Saki relaxed for the end of the day. 

At a later date, in the Sekai, Saki felt the need to complain about Rui and his ‘interesting’ friends. To her surprise, the Vocaloids seemed more amused than anything. 

Miku laughed a little. “Shoot both of them together with a canon? Sounds like the idea of a mischievous child.” 

Len seemed amazed by Rui’s mechanical abilities. “Wait, but the idea aside, the fact that this Rui can make an android is really really cool!” 

Luka just held a little smile. “Hehe, sleeping together? Sounds like that person has a one-track mind. Then again... sometimes, having a nice intimate moment with one another is the push needed for two oblivious lovebirds.” 

Saki felt like they laughed at her pain. She didn’t even know why she went to vent to them; she just should’ve talked to Honami instead. At least, she understands! 

Some days later, Saki and her parents (who were now home) were surprised to see Tsukasa come home later than usual (Saki suspected that Rui finally took him on a date). 

Well, the ‘later than usual’ wasn’t the surprising part. The surprising part was that he came home flushed and could barely speak without stuttering. He expressed the need to be alone for a little bit. 

That day, instead of Tsukasa’s usual boisterous laugh, the Tenma house was filled with the looping melody of Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. 

Saki couldn’t shake her curiosity and peeked on her brother from down the stairs. She saw him rotating again and again a little hand crank connected to a star-shaped box. 

He was fixated on the content, a musical box showing Torpe playing the piano alongside Danchou. 

He looked at the miniature scene with intense longing. 

Saki knew that wasn’t the look of someone that was confessed to by his long-time crush. 

That was the expression Saki often had when she looked at her text messages before sleep. 

It was the look of someone single who longed for the one they love. 

Saki opened her phone, ready to text to Rui, but there were a few notifications she missed. 

Rui:

I’m sorry. I chocked. Everything was perfect, it all went well, but when it came to say the words, I- I couldn’t. There was a lump in my throat, I froze, I just... 

I couldn’t. I was too afraid. 

Saki started to write a reply and erased it not long after. She repeated the process a few times, but she was never happy with the results. She both felt frustrated towards him and empathic, as the feeling wasn’t totally foreign. She didn’t know how to prove the obvious to Rui.  

Tsukasa loves Rui, saying that was like saying that ice is cold and that the sun is warm. 

If only Rui could see how enamored Tsukasa was with him- 

She glanced at her brother, and a small idea came to mind. With a bit of guilt on her mind, she took a picture of Tsukasa playing the musical box, looking enamored with it. 

She sent it to Rui. 

Saki:

Sent a file

He has been playing it since he got home, looking at it like a lovesick idiot.

Open your eyes, you have a chance.

Chapter Text

Toya concentrated on the class in front of him, despite his classmates chattering behind his seat in a mix of zigzag tones. 

The teacher explained his subject in his usual murky, bored voice and Toya duly took efficient notes. 

To say he was bored would be an understatement. His brain understood rather easily the contents of the blackboard, but it didn’t mean he should let himself get too distracted... He wanted to make sure he didn’t miss any important point after all. 

That didn’t stop Toya from making some doodles and personal notes on a separate designed notebook, however. Sometimes, he needed the distraction... Well, mostly in this class. This was probably his second most kept secret, and while he knew his friends wouldn’t mock him for this but... 

There was something embarrassing about admitting he made a story inspired by the people he knew. 

A store of two kingdoms, at war with each other at first, would unite in the goal of obtaining a legendary treasure hidden by a wise, ancient emperor that ruled in the past. 

The treasure? He couldn’t find a proper name for it. Names would be written and crossed off in the notebook (such as the ‘rad grail’, the ‘one Weekend’ and even a simple ‘RW’). 

He had plenty of ideas of how king Akito of Badodogu and the queen An of Vivid would fight and then unit forces to find the treasure accompanied by the minister Toya and the knight Kohane. 

Headcanons of other people’s roles were written as well. 

‘Tsukasa would be the grand sage people would turn to in need.’ 

‘Akito’s sister would’ve left the throne to her brother to pursue her dreams, but then comes back to help him in a time of need.’ 

Such little stories helped Toya feel a bit livelier during the classes. In fact, the notebook was almost finished, and Toya had been thinking about getting another one. He knew he needed to buy other supplies as well and decided to head to the mall after school. 

Funnily enough, it was only while walking on Shamble Crossing that he heard the familiar voice of his respected upperclassman. 

“What do you need new springs for anyway? Aren’t the ones you usually use good enough?” 

“Well, you see Tsukasa, the usual springs I use look a bit boring and might be too strong for our use... It might be more... Dangerous. We wouldn’t want the little fake snakes that will spring up and hit your face to hurt you due to their strength.” 

A clear, green voice accompanied Tsukasa, one that Toya now recognized as belonging to Tsukasa’s friend, explained. Sounds like they were planning things for their next show. Toya supposed that he shouldn’t interrupt their work, but he heard the warm orange voice rang out to him. 

“Urrg... I still can’t believe I agreed that you should craft toy snakes... damn that adventure themed show of ours... Wait, is that?” Tsukasa’s voice got louder. “Toya!!! Heyyy!” 

Toya turned around and saw Tsukasa run towards him, waving happily, followed closely by Rui. He couldn’t help but smile a little. 

There was something about Tsukasa's positivity that was contagious. He was one of the few people that could easily bring a small smile to his face. 

“Oh, Tsukasa. It’s pleasant to see you. And hello, Rui. Are you out to get some supplies for your shows?” 

They paused on the sidewalk to chitchat a little. Tsukasa was standing both to both of his friend, while Rui stood a bit further away from Toya while waving a little at him; acknowledging him but giving the two former pianists some space to catch up. 

“Oh!!! You guessed it! As expected of you Toya, you understand things quick!” 

Rui’s usual breezy green voice turned a bit darker as he mumbled to himself. “Well, maybe as much as Tsukasa.” 

“Hey! What’s that supposed to mean? I can hear you Rui!” 

“Isn’t that a compliment to both of your deduction abilities? Afterall, we were quite close in the road, Toya might have heard bits of our conversation.” 

Tsukasa peered at him as if to guess whether Rui was sincere and seemingly decided to let it go to talk to his friend. By the shade of Rui’s voice color, Toya could guess that he wasn’t sincere. As to why he thought that both Tsukasa and him lacked quick understanding? He wasn’t sure. 

“Anyway! It’s rare to see you here alone Toya! What are you up to today?” Tsukasa just brushed over Rui’s comment and concentrated on Toya instead. 

“Oh, nothing much. I just need to buy a few things before going home.” 

“Oh? Are you going to the mall? Rui and I are going there as well! We could accompany you a bit while you do your things to chat if you’d like!” He paused before looking at Rui in an uncharacteristic soft look. “Oh, if you don’t mind staying here a bit longer Rui.” 

“Of course not, I know it’s been a while since you were able to talk with him. I’ll just follow around.” 

Their voices’ color both became more vibrant, as they looked at each other, in a similar way that Tsukasa’s parents do or that An and Kohane do when they speak to each other. 

Oh. They must be a couple now. Their voices did show pining towards each other before, but Toya hadn’t noticed such strong mutual love before. He smiled a little at his realization. 

“I too would appreciate talking to you a bit longer, shall we go?” 

Toya took the chance to catch up with Tsukasa and Rui, learning about the show they were currently working on, how their classes were going, and odd pranks Rui pulled on Tsukasa. Well, Tsukasa did most of the talking, but from time to time, Rui would add a remark, and they had little back-and-forth that showed their complicity. But sometimes, their proximity seemed shorter than Toya remembered, and their voice always seemed so vibrant, so vivid when talking to each other. 

Toya almost wondered what it’d be like to have someone talk to him this way. 

(He tried to shake away the idea that Akito’s captivating ocean blue voice could possibly grow more vibrant than it already was when he’ll fall in love. It was such a bittersweet idea, as he knew it wouldn’t be directed in his way.) 

In return, Toya would also share bits of his life and how things were going with Vivid Bad Squad, albeit more briefly than Tsukasa did. 

“Oh, if you two are free this weekend, we’re going to perform at an event. Honestly, I think it’s going to be one of our best performances yet, and the other groups are pretty good as well.” 

Tsukasa hummed a little. 

“Well, depending on the hour, I should be able to come. We have practice in the day, but normally your events are quite late in the afternoon, so I think it should be fine? I’ll ask Nene and Emu as well! I’ll text you to confirm, ok?” 

Toya nodded as they reached the general bookstore where they sold his favorite notebooks. It wasn’t the best place to get niche books, and was rather targeted to the general public, selling popular books and lots of knickknacks, pen with known mascots and candy, often attracting the gaze of children and emptying the wallets of parents and impressionable teens. 

Toya strolled through the shelves and realized they reorganized the shop since his last visit. Clicking his tongue, he looked around for the ‘supplies’ section and searched for his notebook. 

Little did he realize in his concentration, was that Tsukasa’s loud voice grew more and more distant. 

Toya turns around, and sees halfway hidden by a bookshelf, Tsukasa and Rui ‘spying’ on him with toy binoculars. 

“Hmm, what to do agent Pegasus? I think our target has spotted us.” 

“It is quite the conundrum indeed. I say we don our disguises and act as if we are innocent, what-say-you, agent God Generation?” 

“I say it’s quite a good idea. Let’s do that.” 

Faster than Toya can blink, Tsukasa and Rui remove the binoculars and put on a particularly cheap looking top hat and fake mustaches-glasses. They approached the younger guy with an exaggerated gait, as if mimicking snob and haughty gentlemen.  

Rui spoke in a surprisingly fluent English. 

“Good afternoon sire, is there anything that caught your fancy?” 

Tsukasa looked at Rui astonished... and with a look of admiration and... amazement? Longing? 

Toya couldn’t quite tell, but he supposed it just showed that Rui was quite high in Tsukasa’s esteem.  

No matter how excited his upperclassmen seemed to be, Toya was still a little offput by their little act. He replied in Japanese, too confused to go along with the bit. 

“Not really, I just needed some writing supplies... ?”  

“Ah! Yes yes! Ritingu! Pene! Fedelsu [read: feathers]! Poesy! Eleganto!” Exclaimed Tsukasa. 

Toya’s brain stopped for a moment. Seriously, what the heck were they doing? 

“Huh?” 

... 

“Tsukasa, Rui, what are you two doing?” 

Rui chuckled. “Tsukasa wanted to do a little bit for fun after being inspired by the things here. By the way, Tsukasa, I see your English really hasn’t gotten any better, hmm? We could work on that later if you want.” 

Rui gently pulled Tsukasa towards him with an arm around the other’s hip and leaned on Tsukasa’s shoulder as he talked. Tsukasa let him do so naturally, so Toya guessed it was a normal thing between them. 

“Wha- RUI! I- I was just trying to make Toya laugh. I know I need to work on my English but try not to point it out in front of my underclassman!” 

The complaint was voiced in an easy going way, as Tsukasa laughed a bit after composing himself. Toya smiled a bit as he recognized the Tsukasa Tenma he knew in his youth. It seemed like he would never lose his childish heart. 

“Anyway, I’m glad you weren’t bored while I was looking for my notebook.” 

“Oh, no there’s so much weird things around here! Look, there’s a toilet-shaped mug! Like, who would even buy this?” 

Tsukasa was about to get out of Rui’s grasp to show Toya said object, when the taller teen kept him close and handed him said mug. Toya wasn’t sure where he pulled it from, as he just seemed to? Take it out from behind his back? 

Rui seemed to notice Toya’s stare as he gave him a Cheshire grin. 

“Oh? Thanks Rui! Here, look!” 

Tsukasa excitedly showed the mug. Huh, they actually do sell a mug in the shape of a toilet seat. Interesting.  

In a flat tone, Toya spoke: 

“Maybe I should get it for my dad.” 

Tsukasa’s eyes shone at the thought. (Rui couldn’t help but stand straight to properly appreciate Tsukasa’s expression, Toya noted.) 

“Oh, you’re so right! It would be so fitting!” 

His father would probably be angry and complain that his friends are a bad influence again , but the thought of his reaction sure was funny. 

Tsukasa continued to show the different things he found in the shop, from ramen-shaped pencil sharpener to a pen with mikudayo’s head on the trigger. 

Encountering the two was a sudden but pleasant surprise. If anything, with lunchtime with Akito and An, it was the peak of his day. It was too bad that now that Toya had bought his notebook, he’d have to part ways with them soon. 

“Well, this was fun. Thank you for accompanying me a little while.” 

However, Tsukasa suddenly looked crestfallen. 

“Oh! I think I dropped something in the shop, I’ll be right back!” 

Rui immediately reacted in concern. 

“What is it? I’ll help you find it.” 

“O-Oh, no it’s fine! It shouldn’t take too long. P-Plus, I know Toya had some troubles in math, and I thought you’d be better to help, right Toya? Anyway, I’ll be right back!” 

“What- Huh?” 
Rui looked at Tsukasa run back to the store and then looked at Toya in confusion. From behind the director’s back, the star made a pleading gesture to Toya, before putting his index in front of his mouth, gesturing to stay silent about his actions. 

Toya’s brain didn’t fully comprehend what the blond was doing, but mentioned something about the things he learned this week. 

“Sorry Kamishiro, it’s about... the square root function. I’m not sure to understand how the vertical and horizontal reflections work. I was hoping you could help me understand why it makes sense for the positions of the variables in the equation to be placed in such a way?” 

Rui then started a complex and thorough explanation that Toya, shamefully, didn’t listen to. He was quite distracted by what happened behind Rui. Tsukasa was running around to get a... plushie? And He headed to the counter to buy it.  

“Oh, I see, I see. Thank you so much Kamishiro, I understand better this way.” Toya said absent-mindedly, before asking again, “On another subject, what’s your favorite animal?” 

Rui looked at him, confused, before answering. “I don’t really have a favorite, but I find platypuses quite interesting. Why?” 

“Oh, nothing I was just wondering...” 
 

Toya saw Tsukasa stuff the newly bought platypus plush in his bag and head over to them. 

“Sorry to have kept you waiting! I hope you were able to understand better thanks to Rui now!” 

“Yes, it was very useful. Thank you again Kamishiro.” A lie, he didn’t need help to start with. Not that Rui needed to know. 

“Haha, always glad to help.” 
 

Toya watched as Tsukasa went back to Rui’s side and took his hand as they were still chatting. He always knew that the older boy was very affectionate, but still, the two of them spoke and touched each other in a more intimate way than with others. If he had doubts of his conclusion when they bumped into each other in the streets, Toya was now sure that their relationship was too close to be merely platonic. He smiled. 

“Tsukasa, Kamishiro, congratulations on going out together. You two are a beautiful couple.” 

His childhood friend grew red at his statement. 

“C-C-Couple??? We’re not dating, we’re just friends!” 

Toya chuckled at Tsukasa’s darker orange tone. He wasn’t being honest. 

“You know, friends usually don’t hold hands or cuddle like you two do. It’s ok, I’ll stay quiet if you wish me to.” 

“No, really! W-We aren’t” 

Tsukasa looked at Rui shyly and pulled his own hand away from the taller boy’s, and then looked at the ground. Rui had a complicated expression.  

Did he misunderstand? 

“Oh, sorry, I didn’t mean to- You two just looked so- Sorry?” 

“It’s fine Aoyagi, don’t worry. We are just great friends, so we might seem a bit close sometimes... Right Tsukasa?” 

Rui answered in a soft voice that was still in a darker shade. Tsukasa nodded shyly.  

They seemed to be upset, but Toya couldn’t quite pinpoint on what. He knew it wasn’t directed at him at least.  

“Still... I feel bad.” 

Toya tried to alleviate the mood, but the two stayed strained until he left. He had to go home before supper, at least today. 

“You’re late” Stated Toya’s father with his usual, red-tinted muddy tone. 

“I had to go buy some school supplies and ran into Tsukasa. I came out before supper, as needed.” 

Toya was only answered by a sigh.  

... 

He really should have bought that toilet shaped mug. 

Chapter Text

Saki came home a good Wednesday evening and closed the door loudly by habit (due to the amount of times she had to ‘announce her presence’ so that Rui and Tsukasa would stop doing... whatever ‘not couple-y’ things they did). Her parents looked at her from the living room, startled. Her father frowned at the loud action, causing Saki to stiffen and mumble a small “sorry”. She knew her parents didn’t mind so much the noise (they had Tsukasa as a son after all) than the unnecessary violence towards the door. 

Tsukasa excitedly peeked out of the bathroom. 

“Rui! You’re here! How do I- O-Oh. Hi Saki! Had a nice day?” 

Tsukasa seemed a little embarrassed once he realized that he was so caught up in his thoughts, that he mistook who entered the house. 

Saki couldn’t help but notice how Tsukasa looked... different. He wore fancy but tight pants, a white sleeveless top adorned with a golden contour. The shirt had a deep V-neck, so he wore a light, orange undershirt beneath. He even put on jewelry: a nice pendant laid on the undershirt, a small star earring on his right ear and a few rings shone on his fingers (Saki smiled as she noticed neither hands had one on the ring finger. Tsukasa put meaning on the smallest things). It seemed that he was in the midst of putting on makeup, as one of his eyes had a sparkly golden eyeshadow. 

“Wow brother, you look stunning! Are you going out tonight or something?” 

Tsukasa laughed a little, trying to hide his nervousness. “No, I’m just... trying out an outfit for this weekend.” 

“This weekend... Ah! Could it be that you are going to Toya’s show?” 

Tsukasa seemed conflicted for a reason Saki couldn’t understand. “Y-Yeah, actually. I suppose Toya talked to you about it, are you going too?” 

Saki laughed a little as she understood the situation better. She suspected that he wanted to go alone with Rui. 

“No, I am going to hang out with my friends this weekend, and we planned to do some band practice and planning before actually go out, so I’ll be busy. I hope you’ll enjoy it though! Hehe, my brother is going to look amazing!” 

She smiled as she admired Tsukasa’s outfit. She never expected him to wear something like this outside of a show, as he wasn’t the one to go out often. Still, oddly, it suited him... except that his hair might be a little too well combed for his current clothes. 

“May I try to do something with your hair brother?” 

Tsukasa smiled at her brightly. 

“Of course! I’m trying out things, so it’s the perfect moment to do so! Go all in Saki!” 

Saki chuckled and grabbed the comb and some hair products. With the help of some gel and spray, she carefully separated Tsukasa’s layers of hair, giving it more volume. It looked much fluffier. Tsukasa liked the results and thanked Saki before going back to the bathroom to finish his makeup. 

Saki couldn’t help but smile and remember when they would mess around with makeup and clothes in their younger days for their different games, acting like they were planning a model runway or a show. 

Even later on, when she was stuck to the hospital, Tsukasa used to amaze Saki or to make her laugh, depending on the type of makeup he’d make. 

Saki continued her homework in the living room for the first time in a while. The ambiance was nice, as she could view her dad cooking in the kitchen and her brother finishing his last touches to his appearance.  She could be there without being afraid of seeing her brother flirt constantly. 

... for now. Ten minutes after Tsukasa was done, Saki heard the doorbell ring. The older sibling ran to the door to open it. 

“Rui!! You’re here! Please come in!” 

Saki could hear how elated Tsukasa was. Wait, did Tsukasa just say Rui? How could she forget that Tsukasa had mistaken her of him earlier, indicating that he was coming! Was her peace ruined? Surely, they wouldn’t flirt outright in front of her dad right? Saki turned her head towards the door, just to make sure she didn’t imagine Rui coming in. 

And there he was, completely smitten with her brother, blushing hard as he eyed his outfit. 

“God, Tsukasa, you look... gorgeous. Is something happening today? What could’ve happened for our star to decide to shine even brighter tonight?” 

... Wow, so he is going to flirt in front of their dad. And yet, Rui somehow didn’t have the guts to confess to Tsukasa.  

Tsukasa smiled brightly at the compliment. “Hmm? No, I was just chosing my outfit for this Saturday... I-I mean, we’re not often going to such event and I thought it’d be nice to look the part? I mean... When in Rome, do as the Romans do, right? I want to make sure to enjoy myself to the fullest since I’m going! It’s only fair, when Toya works so hard on his performance, right?” 

‘That... Or you just want an excuse to dress up in front of Rui, brother,’ thought Saki, unimpressed with Tsukasa’s excuses. 

Rui, however, seemed to believe that half-lie. 

“Hard-working as always as usual I see Tsukasa. I’m sure it’ll be as fun as you hope... It’s a shame Nene and Emu won’t be able to come.” 

“Yeah... I hope they’ll be able to come next time Toya invites us.” 
 

The sweet innocent tone Tsukasa used startled Saki. She knew her brother was a good actor, but it might have been the first time she saw him use his talent to lie to someone. After all, Tsukasa wasn’t totally uninvolved in Nene and Emu’s unavailability. 

Tsukasa Tenma was loud. 

Tsukasa Tenma’s room did not have 4 walls, so it wasn’t surprising that sound could easily circulate in the rest of the house. 

Tsukasa Tenma was VERY loud. 

Saki suspected that the rest of her family was deaf sometimes, but she was long used to hearing her brother’s voice in the house. While her brain was mostly able to filter out the noise her brother made while studying, when she relaxes, she’d sometimes hear some of her brother’s conversations. 

A few days earlier, she caught him talk on the phone, despite the wall of her room separating them. 

“PLEASE NENE, PLEASEEEE! You’d do me a big favor! A-And well, wouldn’t it be nice for you and Emu to have some alone time as well?” 

... 

“What do you mean, it’s Rui’s and my fault if you can’t normally? It’s not MY fault if whenever you ask Emu out, she thinks it’s a group activity! Come on- You and Emu could go hang out, uuuh... In an arcade? Or maybe at the aquarium? I don’t know, just please make sure you two are busy on Saturday!” 

... 

“... I- No, I am not just playing around, I- I am ready to go forward. I won’t hurt him, I swear.” 

... 

“REALLY? Thanks Nene!” 
... 

“NENE! WE’RE NOT GOING TO DO THAT AT SCHOOL COME ON!” 

.... 

“Fine... bye... ...” 
“... Thanks again.” 
 

Saki looked at her brother with a judgemental look. How Rui didn’t seem to catch on to his feelings when he was looking at him with such adoration was beyond her. Before she realized, Tsukasa was hurrying back to the bathroom to remove the makeup and change. 

It seemed that she missed some of the conversation while she was in her thoughts. 

Rui stopped Tsukasa by gently grabbing his wrist, and spoke with a blush on his face: 

“Wait Tsukasa, why don’t you keep your outfit on for now? It’d be a nice reference when browsing, no?” 

“Ah! Of course! A great idea, as expected of my director! We’ll have an easier time finding your outfit if we have a visual comparison!”  

Tsukasa opened the door and was about to leave... but Saki couldn’t contain her curiosity. 

“Brother, are you going out?” 
“Hmm? Ah, yes! I’ll come home after supper. Rui doesn’t have nice clothes for Saturday, so we’re going to find him something! See you, sister, mom, dad!” 

Tsukasa excitedly waved goodbye to his family and left the house while holding Rui’s hand. 

Saki smiled a little as she saw her brother’s back as he left. Still, it was a bit sad to see him leave soon after spending so much time on fixing his hair. She was happy that there finally was some development between the two, but... 

“Why do I feel like I’m sending my daughter down the aisle?” 

On Saturday evening, Tsukasa saw the one he loved waiting for him near the venue, wearing the outfit they chose together. Despites having seen him in said clothing beforehand, the blonde still found himself breathless in front of Rui. 

How could he not, when he was wearing that loose blouse with a sleeveless jacket on top of it? Despite looking fancier than usual, he still looked fluffy and bubbly and just so- Rui. 

Tsukasa noticed that the purple hair was slightly slicked back on his right side, making him look so- 

So sensual that it should be illegal to look so hot. 

(His heart fluttered once he realized that Rui was wearing a moon-shaped earing. He wasn’t sure if Rui had done so intentionally, but the parallel between stars (sun) and moon drove his mind crazy. The idea of Rui being his moon was, well... attractive.) 

“Hmm? What is it Tsukasa, it’s unusual to see you so quiet... Appreciating what you see?” Rui’s voice brought Tsukasa back to reality (but was reality so different from the dream?). 

Fighting his nervosity, the star smiled brightly to Rui, he long had let go of his inhibitions. 

“Is it so wrong to appreciate my own hard work? Hahaha, as expected, you look sublime like this Rui. A-Anyway, let’s go in!” 

Tsukasa quickly took Rui’s hand and lead him to the scene... however, despite his efforts, a red hue colored his cheeks. 

And it was Rui’s turn to be stunned. He had asked his question to the blonde in a joking manner and didn’t expect such a blunt response... 

But then again it was Tsukasa. Cute, hard-working, determined Tsukasa that would never stay nervous or flustered too long... 

Unless surprised... which meant that Tsukasa had expected this kind of comment from Rui’s part. Perhaps he should try to be less previsible... it was a thought to keep in mind for now. 

They arrived in the concert hall, fingers still intertwined, at a relatively early time. Tsukasa took a deep breath before looking at Rui with a warm expression. 

“Isn’t it weird? We’re not the ones on stage tonight... and yet I feel both the nervosity and the adrenaline pumping. But... I know we’ll have a great time.” 

Tsukasa squeezed Rui’s hand, and Rui noticed that behind Tsukasa’s usual clear voice and sparkling eyes, nervousness showed in subtle tremors and tensions across the star’s body. Rui had no idea what caused him to be so stressed, but... 

“I... I think I know what you mean. It’s odd, but it feels like we’re nearing the climax of a story... but, why? This event should be rather normal-” 

Rui’s analytical mind started to wake up and was about to process all the information he had at his disposal to figure out the origin of this feeling. 

Tsukasa chuckled at the view and gently took Rui’s face in his hands. 

“Rui, do you trust me?” 
 
He blinked. 

“Of course.” 

“Then just this once, won’t you put down the director’s role and enjoy what this showman prepared for you, dear alchemist?” 

“What do you mean-” 

Tsukasa kept his unwavering gaze on Rui, looking at him with fondness and assurance (despite the way his arms seemed to tense and untense in repetition). 

“I mean... don’t overthink for now, it’ll all make sense soon. Enjoy the show. And then you’ll see. Please, could you try this for me?” 

Anything for you. 

“... Of course.” Rui smiled back at his lover friend, as he held unwavering faith for the blonde. 

They both smiled tenderly to each other a few moments, before looking at the stage as the ambient lights around them dimmed down. 

Soon enough, the spotlight shone on the stage and all gazes were redirected in a single area. The organizer bowed quickly in front of the crowd. 

“Are you all ready to have a good time tonight?” 
 
The crowd around Rui and Tsukasa screamed in excitement, startling them both. They weren’t used to this kind of place... but the atmosphere wasn’t unpleasant. 

“Haha, I won’t prolong the wait any longer then. Introducing... VIVID. BAD. SQUAD!” 

The curtains opened and revealed the stage. Vivid Bad Squad stood there, ready to perform. 

They introduced their first song. Rad dogs. Quickly, the audience started to move along the beat, enjoying the energetic music. 

Tsukasa wouldn’t remove his eyes from Toya, both enjoying the music and proud of his underclassman.  

It just reminded Rui how warm Tsukasa was in general, towards those he was close to.  

(Rui was one of those lucky people.) 

(But it also reminded Rui that Tsukasa acted this warm to a multitude of people.) 

Rui was ready to look at Tsukasa enjoying the concert for its whole duration. However, Tsukasa wasn’t as immersed in the show as the taller boy thought. He looked back at Rui with a mischievous smile. 

The blonde pulled the director in an improvised dance that truly didn’t look that nice. But in the sea of people in the concert hall, no one would look at the two teens enjoying the night in their own way. 

Rui was startled, then amused...  

Now, we’ve decided to restart for the first time  

Just saying “I want to be like you” is all you need, right?  

Not knowing the reason why, not needing the reason why  

We enjoy the joys of immorality  

... and then just happy. They danced as they tried to follow the rhythm in whatever dance style they knew, even slightly. 

One song past, then two... Really, time seemed to fly as they abandoned themselves to the music. It was as if they forgot about the people around them... they were completely immersed in their own little world.  

I held up my heart to you  

Give it back someday, be gentle, okay?  

I really wanted to go back  

Going back after this is fine too  

 

We- We- We're going to be together forever  

Sometimes just doing side-steps together, sometimes making the other twirl... 

They even found the opportunity to use the Charleston moves they learned while preparing for their Halloween show, a while ago. It didn’t fit the music so much, but it was something they knew, an inside that meant something due to the moments they spent together. 

Before they knew it, Vivid Bad Squad had finished their portion of the event. The MC introduced the next group, which caused Tsukasa and Rui to pause their dancing. 

“I hope you are still ready for more talented singers tonight... because here they come! TotallyNotNPC!” 

The foreign group came on stage, and one of the members made a small announcement before their song. 

“Hey everybody! Inspired by the group that came before us, we decided to prepare a Vocaloid cover just for you!” They paused before revealing the name. “Magnet!” 

Soon, the music echoed through the hall, and Rui grew nervous. He wasn’t unaware of the theme of the song... He was too afraid of Tsukasa’s reaction if he were to try to dance with him on that song... He let go of the blonde’s hand for the first time since they entered the building and looked away. 

However, the star gently grabbed his sleeve, grabbing his attention, and looked at Rui with pleading eyes. 

Rui could never refuse Tsukasa, and he felt his heart loudly beat against his ribcage as Tsukasa pulled him closer, pressing his body against his. 

I want you to embrace me closely and gauge my limit.  

Please make me believe that this is not a sin.  

I want you to kiss me and repaint my body.  

I want to be intoxicated and drowned in your charm.  

They danced slowly, barely moving, as their steps could trace a small circle. Not that Rui paid really much attention to their steps as he held Tsukasa so close, his hips pressed against him. 

What has been repeating is not our dream  

but the unmistakably realistic "we."  

I know as soon as we touch, we can't turn back,  

but that's fine, for you're my one and only love.  

The director could feel the breath of his star gently hit his skin. The distance between them was almost inexistant... and Rui couldn’t look away, not when he was absorbed by Tsukasa’s soft orange eyes. 

I want you to embrace me closely and gauge my limit  

Please make me believe that this is not a sin.  

I want you to kiss me and repaint my body.  

I want to be intoxicated and drowned in your charm.  

Tsukasa pulled his body up, tiptoeing, and pressed his lips against Rui’s. Shock came first, along with disbelief. Rui almost thought a delicate flower fell on his lips. 

Tsukasa stiffened at the lack of response from Rui, but before he could step away, the alchemist affirmed his hold on the showman. Awkwardly, experimentally, Rui moved his lips against Tsukasa’s. He could then feel his star smile and respond back to the kiss, wrapping his arms around Rui’s neck and abandon himself in the kiss. 

The song had long changed, but the two were stuck in the moment, as they experimentally kissed each other, finding their rhythm, their silent melody.  

Their bodies slowly separated, for their own comfort, but their lips kept finding each other again and again. 

Communicating, learning about each other... 

Sharing emotions without words. 

Happiness, longing, passion, trust, need. 

Love. 

The concert finished and finally they pulled apart from each other. Their expressions mirrored each other; a satisfied smile, a happy gleam in their eyes, a blush on their cheeks, red lips... 

Two heart beating in unison. 

“... Say Rui, do you think that the alchemist would be willing to walk side by side with the showman forever?” 

“I think that there is nothing that the alchemist would want more than that Tsukasa.” 

Neither Rui nor Tsukasa knew who initiated the next kiss. Neither were able to resist the invisible pull that led their lips to greet each other once again. 

Chapter Text

Saturday morning, Rui was looking at his ceiling with an unshakeable grin on his face.

He kissed Tsukasa.

Tsukasa kissed him.

Tsukasa wanted to be with him...

Forever <3

He hid his face in a nearby pillow, hugging it tightly, putting all of his energy into the squeeze.

He could barely believe it. And yet, the soft lips of his star had truly touched his.

The feeling had been... divine. He had imagined it before (despite feeling bad about fantasizing about kissing his best friend), and it had felt exactly how he expected it and yet entirely different at the same time.

It was wonderful as expected.

But there was something so surreal and amazing about the kiss that Rui had failed to imagine. It wasn’t anything logical really...

It was just that, as usual, Tsukasa was able to blow his expectations away and make things so much better.

Under his mother’s surprised gaze, Rui got out of bed early on a Sunday, when he didn’t even have a practice with his troupe. Moreover, not only did he look more sleep deprived than usual, but he also had that silly grin he had when he usually planned some big creation.

He had the same face through the stages of building Robo-Nene.

The mother sighed and made a mental note to scowl her son during the evening. She already knew that she’d have troubles to get his attention when he was distracted in such a way.

After all, Rui barely took the time to properly greet them, too busy to think about Tsukasa-kun<3 to even notice that he was taking a bowl of food as his body merely moved due to motor reflexes.

His mother was, however, slightly concerned when she noticed that he forgot to remove a vegetable from his plate. She kept quiet however, as she was currently losing the unending war going on to make Rui eat those greens.

To Rui, it was a wonderful day. He probably kissed Tsukasa about 10 times yesterday, and maybe 50 times in his head again amid the night. Truly one of most sleepless nights he ever had, and yet he didn’t even mind.

His heart soared as he now knew that Tsukasa desired him as well. He wasn’t the only one yearning for the other’s touch and-

And everything will be fine... Because Tsukasa will be with him...

Forever <3

He couldn’t wait to see him again, to kiss him again, to just spend some quality time with his star. He saw him but yesterday, he had the chance to have been able to kiss the boy he loved...

And yet, greedy as he was, he already wanted more.

His mind spiralled, was Tsukasa awake? Did he have troubles sleeping as well? Or is he perhaps still sleeping, tucked under his covers, sleeping without a care. Either way, in his mind, Tsukasa couldn’t be anything but adorable.

Yearning for the blonde’s presence, Rui texted him quickly.

Good morning my star, I hope you slept well.

I had a wonderful night, though I didn’t get much sleep...

I already miss you Tsukasa, I can’t wait to hold you in my arms again.

If you’re not too busy, maybe we could take a walk today if you want to :)

Oh, to see Tsukasa again! Rui grinned happily and took another bite of his meal, before spitting it out soon after.

He made the most disgusted face.

“H-How did this broccoli find itself on my plate???”

His mother couldn’t help but laugh a little at his “pain”.

“If you already took a bite, you might as well finish it Rui~”

Rui looked at his mom with an expression of betrayal.

“Do you enjoy seeing you son suffer, mother? Taking advantage of my distraction to slip veggies in my food? Such a heartless parent!” Rui playfully answered.

And it seemed that his mother was used to such antics from her son.

“I’d have you know that it was you who forgot to remove it when you served yourself. I wonder, what had you so distracted Rui?”

Rui smiled as he saw this as an opportunity to talk about the previous day.

“Well, yesterday, Tsukasa and I had a blast, and then...”
 

‘We became boyfriends’ the words couldn’t leave Rui’s mouth. Technically, they hadn’t confirmed their relationship yet.

Rui furrowed his eyebrows as anxiety took over him.

What if-

What if Tsukasa wanted him to just be his friend and director. What if, he was delusional, and that Tsukasa meant that he didn’t wish for their relationship to change.

What if he was merely kissed due to playful curiosity, due to the mood of the party, and not because Tsukasa was truly interested in him?

“Well, it was great. Really fun.” Rui forced a smile and suddenly didn’t feel like eating anymore. He stood up with his half-empty plate and went to clean it in the kitchen.

“... Rui, what happened? Why are you turning so sour now, is something wrong?”

Rui’s lips quivered. “I- I don’t know. I just hadn’t considered all the possibilities. I don’t want to talk about this, not yet. I need more information.”

His mother looked at him as he left the room in a hurry, still concerned. But she knew her boy, and she knew that he would come to her once he was ready.

She knew that she had to respect his boundaries, but it hurt to see him so suddenly distraught.

Rui ran to his room, trying to control his breathing as anxious thoughts swarmed through his mind.

Tsukasa shared his feelings. Did he?

Tsukasa wanted to be with him. Why would he?

This wasn’t a one-time thing. How could he be sure?

Tsukasa cares about him. Tsukasa’s aspirations are too big to leave space for a relationship.

Rui fell on his bed and covered his face with a pillow, the same pillow as earlier.

Tsukasa was going to be with him... forever?

As if.

Stars aren’t made to be grasped by mortals.

But he kissed him...

Rui spiralled in a cycle of self-doubt and hope, where neither won. He only snapped out of it at the sound of a familiar ping.

Tsukasa:

A walk with my dear director? I’d love to! :)

Replied to your message ->

Hahaha, so do I! I miss having your arms around me... so make sure to hug me lots, ok?

Rui read those messages and felt his cheeks turn red. Damnit. Why did Tsukasa have to be so...

So cute? So nice? So... Tsukasa?

Did he have a chance after all?

Or was he forgetting how naturally affectionate Tsukasa was? He did give Emu and Saki frequent hugs. Even Toya.

But one is his sister and the others are like family to him.

Rui’s internal war was put on pause as he replied to Tsukasa, setting the hour of their... date (?).

“Rui!!!!” The blonde ran towards him and tackled him, similarly to how Emu often acted.

Rui caught him in his arms and held the hug for a little longer.

“Good morning my star~”

Tsukasa looked at him, unimpressed. A beautiful blush adorned his cheeks and stars shone in his eyes.

“It’s 11 o’clock! That hardly qualifies as the morning!”

“By definition, morning is before noon... So, I think it counts.”

Tsukasa rolled his eyes. “You once told me good morning at 1 pm, I don’t think you are helping yourself here.”

“Oh?~ If you remembered that, then why complain just now?”

“Hey! I complained back then too! Hopefully, you’ll learn how time works soon.”
“Hmm? I personally think ‘morning’ should be the few hours after someone wakes up.”

“The concept of morning has a definition! Don’t act like it’s something related to opinions!”

Tsukasa stared at Rui with a slightly disturbed face.

“You... You’re the type who thinks cereal bowls are soups, aren’t you?”

Rui chuckled a bit.

“Of course not.~ If cereal bowls were soup, then the cereals would be soggy and that’s disgusting. Hmm, obviously cereal bowls are stew.”
Tsukasa looked at Rui with disgust.

“You did not just say that??? God, that’s disturbing.”

Rui chuckled. Tsukasa seemed to act as usual (except for the fact he clung far more to Rui). Last night was... most likely a fluke. An experiment. A one-time incident. Disappointment blossomed in Rui’s gut.

Tsukasa chattered happily. Rui couldn’t find it in himself to enjoy it as much as Tsukasa. He had to ask.

“Tsukasa... about our relationship... are you happy with where we are now?”

Tsukasa beamed with his happiest smile yet.

“Of course! I couldn’t be happier! I’m so glad to have you in my life Rui!”

Rui faked a smile.

“I’m happy you think so.”

His heart shattered in silence. The rest of the day was difficult for Rui. He watched his star’s happiness from afar.

How he smiled at the slightest thing. How he constantly looked for inspiration for their shows. How cute he was while eating messily his slice of cake. Rui had to force himself to eat his own.

This... was enough, right?

No. This couldn’t be enough anymore. He crossed the line; he let himself hope too much. Hope to be able to reach his star yet the wax keeping together his wings melted under the heat.

He fell back to the ground, facing the cold reality.

From now on, touching Tsukasa set him ablaze with pain, yet he kept it together, not to hurt Tsukasa.

“Rui? Why don’t you come eat at my house tonight? My parents are very excited to have you with us!”

Tsukasa’s eyes shone with excitement, but Rui couldn’t bear to spend more time with him. His heart was weeping.

“Maybe another time Tsukasa. I’m fairly exhausted.”

“Rui? Are you... ok?”
Tsukasa looked at him with concern. Rui’s heart winced.

“I’m fine. Just didn’t sleep enough.”

Tsukasa nodded slightly.

“Alright. What about tomorrow?”

Tsukasa looked at him with such cute pleading eyes that Rui couldn’t help but accept.

“Tomorrow, that’s… I- I guess tomorrow should work fine.”

Tsukasa beamed with happiness and tightly hugged Rui. When they parted, he held the director’s hand.

The soothing feeling calmed Rui’s nerves a bit.

They soon reached the bus station. The taller teen thought it was finally goodbye, but before Tsukasa left, he planted a soft kiss on his cheeks.

“Take care of yourself Rui! I’ll see you tomorrow!”
Rui turned bright red.

He didn’t know what to make of today.

Sunday morning, Saki came out of her room to witness her brother happily cooking breakfast. Tsukasa acted about the same. Except he seemed... happier? And somehow more energetic. Giddy. Her brother was giddy. She spoke up and announced her presence.

“Good morning, dear brother! How are you doing?”

 Tsukasa smiled at his sister.

“I’m good. I slept well. I hope you did too.”

 “I did, thanks.”

There was a small pause, she wasn’t sure if she should ask why Tsukasa seemed... happier than usual. Yes, he had that date with Rui on Friday. However, surely her brother would’ve told her if something had happened, right?
Before she could decide, Tsukasa turned to face her and asked:

“Are you going to be home for supper?”

Saki hummed, trying to recall her schedule.

“Yeah, my practice ends at 4 and I don’t have much homework to do. Why?”

Tsukasa’s eyes shone.

“Good. Rui’s coming for supper.”

“Oh, I can always make plans you know-”

“No! No. I want you to be here. I... you know. I don’t think I ever formally introduced Rui to mom and dad.”

Saki was stunned as she saw Tsukasa’s blushing expression. Oh.

O h.

She laughed and hugged her brother.

“I’m so happy for you!”

Tsukasa silently reciprocated the hug. Saki hadn’t seen him so bashful in ages.

“Still, brother, we’ll have to set some rules because-”

Tsukasa grumbled.

“We’ll behave.”

...

“I don’t believe you.”

Rui knocked at the door to Tsukasa’s house. He was dressed casually, because hey, this was just hanging out with a friend, right? There was no reason for him to be nervous, except that he kissed said friend just a few nights ago and he was crazily in love with him.

His hands were clammy.

He had to keep his head straight, after all, there was no label.

They are just friends.

Tsukasa opened the door, he wore his usual favorite fish brand of clothes, yet his hair seemed better styled than usual. He was blushing softly.

That was so cute. Did Rui perhaps had some hope?

Tsukasa took a deep breath and spoke shyly. It was so unlike him, yet it was so cute.

“Aren’t you nervous?”

Rui blinked.

“Nervous? Not really. I’ve seen your parents a few times. I think it’ll go fine. Why? Are your parents unusually strict?”

Tsukasa seemed to relax a bit at Rui’s words.

“Right, it’ll go fine. Thank you, my director. You always know what to say.”

Rui blushed as Tsukasa said those sweet words and took his hand, leading him outside. His brain shut down at the contact.

All he could think was that Tsukasa’s hand was so warm and firm. He never wanted to let it go.

Automatically, he removed his shoes and entered the dining room. He greeted Tsukasa’s parents and said ‘Hi’ to Saki.

Once they sat at the table and Tsukasa let go of his hand, Rui was suddenly aware of where he was.

Tsukasa looked at him as if to ask for permission. Rui nodded hesitantly.

He didn’t quite understand what was going on, but he nodded, trusting his star.

Tsukasa spoke up, loudly as he usually did.

“Mom, dad! Meet my boyfriend!”

Rui’s brain crashed. Boyfriend? Him?

“Huhhhhh!?”

Tsukasa looked at him, frowning a bit.

“What ‘Huhh?’ That’s what we are, no?”

Saki facepalmed. Of course, things wouldn’t be easy with the both of them.

Rui gulped and hesitated before speaking.

“I mean, we never put a label on it-”

Tsukasa was startled and spoke anxiously.

“It was implied! I’m sorry, did you not want to?”

“Of course I want to. Sorry, it seems I misunderstood-”

Someone coughed, which attracted Rui’s and Tsukasa’s attention. It was Mrs Tenma.

Tsukasa stiffened anxiously. His whole family watched that.

“It seemed that the details haven’t been figured out yet, and I’m sure you’d rather do that in private. However... Kamishiro, was it? Thank you for being there for my son whenever he needed it. I'm sure you two make a fine pair... we might see each other often, so let’s make sure to get to know each other. I do hear a lot about you from Tsukasa, but it’s different from speaking with you directly.”

Tsukasa was embarrassed that he was outed by his mom, while Rui stiffened.

“T-Thank you Mrs Tenma.”

What was Rui supposed to do? He was unprepared to meet the parents of the boyfriend that he wasn’t even really aware he even had!

Underneath the table, Tsukasa’s hand gently squeezed Rui’s hand. The director took a deep head.

It’s okay, he could improvise a bit. He used his signature smile.

It’s showtime.

While Rui was awaiting an interrogation of sort, the dinner was rather relaxed. Tsukasa’s parents knew who he was after all.

So, the subjects revolved around their next shows, Saki’s music group and Tsukasa’s parents’ jobs.

And as everyone finished their plates, Tsukasa and Rui slowly headed upstairs…

What followed was something that regarded the two of them.

Saki stared at a blank page. She knew she had a text to write a text about the ten most popular bands that incorporated Vocaloids to their music, she had done her research, she just couldn’t concentrate.

How the hell did they even miscommunicate on whether they are dating or not?

She truly hoped that they wouldn’t break up, at least not so fast, because she didn’t want to see her brother heartbroken.

The pianist decided to step out to get a drink, maybe some tea would help her concentrate?

However, her eyes caught something that she shouldn’t have.

Upstairs, Tsukasa and Rui were kissing.

She softened, maybe it’ll be fine-

But then she heard a soft sound.

Her face showed disgust.

GROSS! THAT WAS SO GROSS!

Her room truly was the only place where Saki was safe.

Main story end