Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Hey.”

“…”

“Put it in already.” Jotaro murmured as he removed his hands from Star Platinum’s head. “But be quiet.”

     Jotaro felt Star Platinum’s fingers slip out from his carefully stretched entrance. Star Platinum released Jotaro’s cock from his mouth and lifted the man carefully, placing a pillow under his back for support. Jotaro’s face flushed as Star Platinum positioned himself between the man’s muscular legs, spreading the extremities carefully as he pressed the tip of his hefty cock against Jotaro’s ready hole.

     Star Platinum looked down at Jotaro, taking in the sight of his beloved user. Gently, Star Platinum pushed himself inside. He advanced slowly, causing Jotaro to gasp and cover his mouth with his hand. The man was fearful he might wake his mother across the house.

     In the darkness of his old childhood bedroom, Jotaro’s other senses heightened. The sensation of Star Platinum’s hands firmly gripping his thighs and the enormous cock filling his body made Jotaro go wild, forcing him to bite down on his lip to avoid uttering a sound. The feeling of his stand’s member stretching his walls made his body hot as he gripped the sheets.

     Star Platinum slowly eased himself fully into Jotaro, causing the man to emit a passionate sigh. Jotaro huffed as he glanced up at Star Platinum, who lowered himself to meet Jotaro’s lips. Jotaro closed his eyes as Star Platinum kissed him. Their tongues met as they shared a passionate kiss. Jotaro’s arms wrapped around his adored stand, pulling the mystical being closer to him. Star Platinum pulled his hips back slightly before gently thrusting into Jotaro.

“Mmhhnn~…” Jotaro moaned into Star Platinum’s mouth in response.

     Star Platinum’s tongue aggressively swirled around Jotaro’s as he made another deep, gentle thrust. Jotaro felt the girthy length stimulate his prostate. Jotaro’s body tensed as it took all his willpower not to cry out in pleasure. He whimpered into Star Platinum’s hot mouth as the mighty stand continued to thrust, keeping with the steady rhythm he started.

     Jotaro’s saliva-coated erection rubbed against Star Platinum’s body as the powerful stand thrust. Jotaro huffed as each thrust filled him with pleasure. His muscles tensed, causing his tight walls to grip his stand’s rock-hard cock inside of him. Star Platinum’s pace quickened in response. Jotaro’s fingertips dug into Star Platinum’s back as he held on. He felt the skin on his back feel hot from his scratching.

     Star Platinum broke their kiss, gazing down at Jotaro with his vibrant eyes. Jotaro could not see too well in the dark, but he could see the masculine face of his stand inches away from his. Star Platinum’s mouth slightly parted as he plunged deeper into Jotaro, emitting hot breath as he pounded. Star Platinum furrowed his brow as the pleasure was mounting. Jotaro gazed at his majestic stand.

“Star Platinum…” Jotaro muttered quietly between his hushed moans.

“Hhhrrr…” Star Platinum growled as Jotaro clenched his tight walls around his stand’s cock.

     Star Platinum’s pace increased again as Jotaro’s tightness roused him. A slight smirk appeared on Jotaro’s face. Star Platinum observed his user, noting the smile. Star Platinum mirrored the expression, smiling down at his dear user. Jotaro relinquished his rough grip on Star Platinum. The mystical stand took Jotaro’s hands into his, interlocking their fingers without breaking his pace.

     Jotaro’s body tensed, and his heart rate quickened suddenly. He felt he was on the edge for a while, and his body was peaking in pleasure. His skin flushed as he felt the pressure building in his lower body. His cock felt like it was in a warm, wet tunnel, combined with the sensation of it rubbing against his stand. Whatever sensation Star Platinum felt, Jotaro could feel, too. The pleasure they shared was unlike anything else.

     Star Platinum let out another wild growl as Jotaro’s tight walls pulsated again around him as he thrust deeper. The tight muscles stirred the dominant stand, challenging his will not to lose self-control as his pleasure was reaching its peak. He rolled his hips as he thrust even faster. Jotaro shut his eyes.

“Oh fuck~!” Jotaro whimpered in a hushed, breathy whisper, his breathing growing heavier.

     Star Platinum released Jotaro’s hand and covered the man’s mouth, hushing him from crying out in pleasure. Star Platinum gritted his teeth as his brawny body tensed, his pace going berserk as Jotaro moaned breathlessly into Star Platinum’s sizeable, gloved hand. Star Platinum snarled as he came inside Jotaro’s tight ass. Simultaneously, Jotaro came. His warm semen shot onto his chest and Star Platinum. The pair panted as their bodies began to relax.

     Star Platinum lowered himself to Jotaro’s face again, closing his eyes as he tilted his head and kissed his user’s lips. Jotaro slipped his tongue into Star Platinum’s mouth, teasing his tongue with his as his hands reached around the stand again, pulling him closer. Star Platinum pressed his heavy body against Jotaro’s. His tongue traveled to Jotaro's neck, kissing it softly with his full lips. Jotaro leaned his head back, allowing his stand more adequate access to his exposed neck. Jotaro closed his eyes, enjoying the intimacy with his lover.

I love it when you keep it in, Jotaro thought.

“Star Platinum.” Jotaro purred.

“..…”

     Star Platinum gazed at Jotaro lovingly. Jotaro cupped Star Platinum’s chin in his hand. Jotaro focused his eyes in the dark, peering at his glistening stand.

“…”

“I told you to be quiet.” Jotaro joked, smirking at Star Platinum.

“…”

     Star Platinum thrusted suddenly. Jotaro almost loudly groaned, causing Star Platinum to cover his mouth again. Jotaro frowned. Star Platinum removed his hand from covering Jotaro’s mouth and peered at him. A playful smirk appeared on the mighty stand’s face.

“Jerk.” Jotaro whispered.

“…”

     Star Platinum removed himself from Jotaro carefully and took Jotaro in his arms, pulling him close to his large body. Jotaro closed his eyes and cuddled his stand, enjoying the warmth of the large hands around him. Star Platinum pulled the blanket over them, ensuring the pair would stay warm in the cool air.

     Jotaro opened his eyes, gazing at Star Platinum. His stand stared at him with his intense aquamarine eyes. Jotaro studied Star Platinum, who looked at Jotaro curiously.

“Do you ever close your eyes at night?” Jotaro asked. “You know, to sleep?”

“…”

“Knowing you, you’re probably watching me the entire night,” Jotaro said. “Am I right?”

“…”

“I wonder if you can dream.” Jotaro muttered, running his hand across his warm stand.

“..?”

     Star Platinum tilted his head slightly while he watched Jotaro.

“Oh, good grief.” Jotaro sighed. “I don’t even know where to begin describing a dream.”

“…”

     Star Platinum pulled Jotaro closer and stared at him as he listened intently.

“Alright, I’ll try.” Jotaro murmured. “When you dream as you sleep, you see and feel things that aren’t happening but feel like they are. It’s all just an illusion. A dream is composed of things your mind creates while your body is at rest.”

“…”

“Just saying it out loud makes it sound unnatural and strange, now that I think about it,” Jotaro said. “But it’s normal. Even some animals have been seen dreaming.”

“…”

“Sometimes dreams can be nice,” Jotaro said. “I used to dream I could fly.”

“…”

     Jotaro watched as Star Platinum closed his eyes. A smirk formed on the man’s face as he watched his stand attempt to sleep. Jotaro followed suit, closing his blue eyes.

It’s been over a year since I found out you’ve been with me my whole life, Jotaro thought. And yet, there are still so many things that I don’t know about you.

     Jotaro opened his eyes and glanced at his stand. Aside from his perfectly angular face, the circular structures that took the place of his ears kept him from appearing completely human. Jotaro recalled his earlier observations of Star Platinum, who lacked other characteristically human features. It was easy to forget that Star Platinum possessed no heartbeat, but his lack of a navel and nipples were far more noticeable, mainly due to his absence of clothing.

     Star Platinum’s monstrous strength was beyond any human ability, but this trait was one of many that Jotaro admired the most. Strength was something Jotaro strived for and something he respected. Star Platinum had progressed in controlling his strength when handling Jotaro, understanding what Jotaro could handle and what would be too much. Jotaro enjoyed the roughness as long as there wasn’t any evidence of the acts left on his body for others to see. The thought of someone uncovering his secret remained a worry in his mind.

Mom still thinks I have a girlfriend, Jotaro thought. Even if you were a human, I know she would have misgivings about us.

     Jotaro closed his eyes as he blocked out his thoughts. Eventually, Jotaro’s physical exhaustion caught up with him, easing his weary body into a deep sleep beside Star Platinum.

     Jotaro opened his eyes. Around him was a strange world. He stood in knee-deep still water, which stretched endlessly around him. The water was utterly still, forming ripples across the surface from his movements as he looked around. The dusky blue sky reflected off the water’s surface. The vastness and emptiness of the place reminded Jotaro of the Arabian desert he crossed. He noticed a single and narrow white tower in the far distance. The white needle stretched skyward.

     Jotaro glanced up at the sky the tower pointed to, which lacked a sun and moon but was filled with stars. A single star floated down from the sky and moved toward Jotaro. The man was filled with curiosity and anxiety, unsure of what to make of such a bizarre place and the phenomena happening before him. The shining bright star sparked as it materialized into a human shape. Star Platinum appeared from the dazzling light, peering at Jotaro.

It's Star Platinum, Jotaro thought.

“…”

     Jotaro attempted to speak, but his lips would not obey him. He frowned. He was filled with that all-too-familiar frustrating feeling of trying to speak or scream in a dream but failing to do so without any reasonable explanation.

“S-” Jotaro hissed as he tried to speak.

I can’t do it, Jotaro thought. Good grief, I hate dreams like this.

     Jotaro realized he was ludic dreaming, which was rare for him. The young man did not linger on dream interpretations and hardly remembered his past dreams after waking. The last dreams he remembered were the ones he had during the previous summer when he was finishing high school.

At least Star Platinum is here, Jotaro thought. This isn’t so bad.

“Jotaro.” Star Platinum spoke.

H-He just..! Jotaro thought, his eyes wide with shock.

     Jotaro woke from his dream, feeling startled still from his stand speaking. He watched as Star Platinum’s eyes opened and studied Jotaro. Star Platinum smiled and clutched Jotaro closer to him, kissing his forehead. Jotaro stared at Star Platinum.

Was that only my dream, or was it yours too? Jotaro thought.

Chapter Text

     Jotaro woke to the sound of a vacuum cleaner across the house. He groaned as he turned over in his bed. He felt Star Platinum pull him closer. It was the stand’s way of saying ‘good morning’ to the man. His old bed was relatively small, leaving little space for the pair to share. Jotaro did not mind the cramped feeling, as it had become customary for the past year to be held in Star Platinum’s arms as he slept. Jotaro frowned as the noise of the vacuum filled his head.

Good grief, what is she doing up so early? Jotaro thought as he sighed and placed his pillow over his head to block the sound.

     Annoyed by the persistent noise, Jotaro decided to get up. He dressed himself as Star Platinum watched, floating alongside the grumpy man. Jotaro put his hat on before exiting his room, placing his hands in his pockets as he lingered toward the source of the noise. Star Platinum followed.

     Holy was in the kitchen, vigorously vacuuming every crevice of the house. Jotaro frowned. He walked toward the plug where the vacuum was plugged in, yanking the cable from the wall. Holy paused and looked at the vacuum, confused about why the device was no longer working. She glanced at the cord and noticed Jotaro with Star Platinum standing in the kitchen.

“Oh! Good morning, Jotaro. And Star Platinum!” Holy chirped. “Jotaro, do you mind plugging that back in?” Holy asked.

“What are you doing up cleaning so early?” Jotaro asked, his voice full of irritation.

“I uh… couldn’t sleep. It’s January, so it’s time to do some deep cleaning.” Holy said and forced a smile.

     Jotaro’s frown deepened as he glared at her.

Give me a break. She couldn’t wait until I woke up before making all that noise? Jotaro thought.

“Can you two help me move some of the heavy appliances? There’s no telling how filthy it is behind the fridge and the oven.” Holy said. “I haven’t had the chance to clean it since you lived here.”

“Star Platinum can help you. He’s strong enough on his own.” Jotaro said as he sat at the table, clearly still tired and irritable.

     Holy glanced at Star Platinum. The stand met her gaze and smiled at her, forming a smile on her face.

“Are you sure?” Holy asked, still skeptical. “It’s cumbersome and I don’t want Star Platinum getting hurt.”

“He’s even stronger than I am. Just let him do it.” Jotaro grumbled as he closed his eyes and rested his chin on his hand at the table.

“Alright then! Star Platinum, please help me move the fridge first.” Holy said. “Just be careful.”

     Star Platinum turned away from Holy, approaching the fridge. Her smile faded as she watched in anticipation and worry. Holy marveled as she watched the mighty stand effortlessly lift it off the ground, pulling it away from the wall and carefully setting it back down again. Her smile returned.

“That’s incredible!” Holy praised.

     Star Platinum smiled at Holy, appreciating her flattery. He gazed at her expectedly, awaiting her next orders. Jotaro yawned sleepily at the table.

“The oven, too, please.” Holy desired.

     Star Platinum obeyed, lifting the oven and effortlessly carrying it away from the wall.

“Thank you, Star Platinum!” Holy beamed.

“Ora.” Star Platinum responded to Holy’s surprise.

“Oh my goodness, I had no idea you could speak!” Holy said excitedly.

“He can’t. That’s all he can say.” Jotaro grumbled as Holy began to clean behind the appliances with a dustpan and brush.

“What else can he do?” Holy asked curiously.

     A flood of dirty thoughts entered Jotaro’s mind, causing a faint blush. Star Platinum turned to meet gazes with the disgruntled man, intensifying his flush. He clutched the brim of his hat and turned away, concealing his face.

“He’s best suited for fighting.” Jotaro responded.

“Only for fighting? But he’s so human-like.” Holy said as she emptied the dustpan into the trash and looked at Star Platinum.

     Holy studied Star Platinum. Star Platinum stood only a few inches taller than Jotaro but was far bulkier than the man. He was still quite intimidating to the woman. Jotaro watched the two interact, interested in Star Platinum communicating with someone other than him.

“Human doesn’t describe him.” Jotaro admitted.

“Maybe.” Holy said as she studied Star Platinum. “But he seems like a person to me.”

Now that’s interesting. Though he lacks in what it means to be human physically, Star Platinum possesses an individuality that only a being with a will can have, Jotaro thought as he gazed at his beloved stand. It’s a shame he’s tied to a person like me.

“Precision is another talent of his. It’s useful at times.” Jotaro muttered, trying to avoid arousing suspicion about his relationship with his stand.

“Well, I’m glad you always have a friend around to protect you.” Holy said. “It makes me feel better knowing that.”

“What do you mean?” Jotaro asked. “I can handle danger by myself.”

“It’s such a dangerous world out there. It’s great that you have someone there with you.” Holy said. “I always felt safe whenever I was out with your father.”

“He hasn’t been around.” Jotaro said, disgusted at the thought of his father.

“You always made me feel safe.” Holy said sweetly. “When the father isn’t around, the son sometimes takes his place as man of the house.” She said as she finished cleaning behind the bulky appliances.

“You can’t say you were happy living like that.” Jotaro argued. “What’s the point in being married to someone if you’re never together?”

“I had to accept that it’s just how things would be. I knew your father would travel as a musician, so I anticipated his absences.” Holy said. “He provided a great life for us here.” Holy said, referring to their luxurious mansion.

It’s all meaningless, Jotaro thought. Money doesn’t make up for an absent parent.

“Whatever.” Jotaro grumbled as Star Platinum moved the appliances back to their rightful places.

“Someday, you’ll get married and have children of your own. Then you’ll understand what it’s like.” Holy said. “Providing for a family is hard work, Jotaro.”

“Don’t lecture me. It’s not even 9 o’clock yet.” Jotaro complained.

“Jotaro, does Star Platinum know how to cook? I have a lot to do today.” Holy asked.

“If you’re thinking about using him for your chores, forget it. It takes my energy to continue manifesting him to be present.” Jotaro groaned. “I’ve gotten used to having him around for long periods, but I’m not letting you use him for your mundane tasks.”

“Oh, so you do keep him around for company!” Holy chirped. “Don’t think I can’t see through your tough-guy façade.”

Damn it, Jotaro thought, defeated.

“He’s my stand. I’ll use him for whatever I please.” Jotaro said possessively as Star Platinum sat beside him.

“It’s fine. I got an early start, so I have plenty of time.” Holy said.

“Plenty of time for what?” Jotaro asked.

“Nothing! Just… getting everything done on my to-do list, I mean.” Holy said worriedly.

She’s hiding something, Jotaro thought.

“Alright. I should head out then.” Jotaro said.

“Wait! Please stay for dinner. I’m making one of your favorites!” Holy pleaded.

“You don’t have to twist my arm. My classes start next week anyway.” Jotaro responded.

“..?” Star Platinum tilted his head curiously at Jotaro.

“It’s a phrase.” Jotaro explained.

“You’re so cute explaining things to Star Platinum.” Holy chimed.

"Tch." Jotaro murmured, embarrassed.

     Star Platinum turned to Jotaro and smiled warmly. Jotaro continued to frown, but he couldn’t help but feel a slight smile creep on his face. Star Platinum got closer to Jotaro. Jotaro watched as his stand leaned toward him, wanting to be closer. It wasn’t unusual for Jotaro to sit in Star Platinum’s lap, but Jotaro was wary of showing affection to his stand around his mother. Jotaro pushed Star Platinum away.

Not here around her, Jotaro thought as he silently shook his head at Star Platinum. Once we get home, we can do whatever we want.

     Later that day, Jotaro heard some noise at the front door. Jotaro, Star Platinum, and Holy turned to the sound of keys unlocking the door. Jotaro felt his heart sink when a tall man with black hair, glasses, and a suit stepped into the house. Star Platinum was intrigued by the man, looking back at him and Jotaro. The stand could see the resemblance.

“Sadao!” Holy beamed as she ran up to the man.

“Holy.” The man greeted warmly, embracing his wife and kissing her. “I missed you.”

For fuck’s sake, Jotaro thought as he sighed. That’s what she was hiding.

“Jotaro, come here!” Sadao said with his arms out. “I haven’t seen my boy in years!”

“…” Jotaro glared at the man, not moving a muscle as he remained sitting.

“Oh, he’s grumpy because I woke him up early.” Holy said to Sadao.

“He’s still sensitive, I see.” Sadao chuckled. “Looks like some things never change.”

“Oh, but he’s been doing great. He just got his associate’s degree and is now starting a bachelor’s program.” Holy beamed.

“Really?” Sadao said with surprise as he sat across from Jotaro, unaware of Star Platinum sitting at the table beside his son. “I swear you just got started.”

“That was a year ago.” Jotaro snapped.

“Oh, I must be misremembering. I’ve been on tour for so long now that the days blend together.” Sadao said as he reclined in the seat.

“I’ll make some tea! Jotaro, be a good son and talk to your father.” Holy urged.

You expect me to be kind to a man who has been gone all these years? Jotaro thought as his anger climbed. Does he even know how you almost died, Mom?

“Jotaro, please remind me, what have you been studying in school?” Sadao asked.

“Marine biology.” Jotaro muttered, avoiding eye contact with his father.

“He’s thinking about pursuing a Ph.D.!” Holy remarked as she set a kettle on the stove. “Imagine, Dr. Kujo, the marine biologist.”

Star Platinum stared at Sadao, more interested in the interaction than Jotaro seemed.

“Oh, that’s… interesting.” Sadao said. “Why did you choose to study that?”

“I like it.” Jotaro responded flatly.

“I don’t mean to sound negative, but perhaps you should study something more stable. The economy is tanking after the stock crash last year.” Sadao said. “A friend of mine who understands these things way better than I do said it could go on for years.”

“Tch. Whatever.” Jotaro groaned.

“I’m just saying you should strongly consider something that will get you a better-paying job instead of spending your time chasing rainbows.” Sadao said.

“You have a lot of nerve lecturing me about what to do with my life when all you do is travel and make shitty music.” Jotaro said.

“Jotaro!” Holy scolded as she prepared the tea.

Of course, she grows a spine when Sadao is around to defend her, Jotaro thought. Coming here was a mistake.

“Shitty music, eh? I have thousands of listeners from around the world.” Sadao argued. “Millions even. Have you ever listened to any of it?”

“No.” Jotaro responded with a frown.

“How about we listen to some? I think you would like it if you gave it a chance. Your father is so talented.” Holy said as she was preparing to start making dinner soon.

“That’s a great idea! We can listen to my latest works.” Sadao said as he took a vinyl from his bag and put it in the player.

Great, more noise, Jotaro thought.

     Sadao started the album and cranked the volume. The sound of brass jazz instruments filled the air. Jotaro’s frown deepened as he looked at Star Platinum. Jotaro wanted to plug up his ears. Star Platinum glanced back at Jotaro and raised his large hands to cover his ears.

It’s shit, Jotaro thought as he felt his head begin to hurt from the spontaneous flow of the music.

     Holy and Sadao danced around in the kitchen to the music. Jotaro watched in disbelief over their behavior. It wasn’t his idea of a loving relationship.

Look at this smug bastard, Jotaro thought. I can’t stand it.

“Well, what did you think of that one, Jotaro?” Sadao asked after the first track ended.

“My ass could write a better song.” Jotaro responded.

“Jotaro!” Holy scolded. “What has gotten into you? Why can’t you be happy that your father is home?”

“I hardly know the man.” Jotaro responded.

“What should matter is that I’m here now.” Sadao said. “Jotaro, I’ve done my best to be a good father to you. I did my best with what I could do with the nature of my work.”

“Listen, old man, it doesn’t matter to me what you think. The fact of the matter is that you and I don’t even know each other. Quit acting like you being present now will make a difference.” Jotaro argued.

     Sadao frowned. He approached Jotaro silently and aggressively, standing above the sitting man.

“I won’t let you disrespect me in my house.” Sadao said.

     Star Platinum stood up, placing himself beside Jotaro. Jotaro glared at the man and slowly stood up. Jotaro’s height was far greater than his father’s. His intense glare and rigid posture intimidated the smaller man despite his hands being in his pockets.

“And what are you going to do about it?” Jotaro said menacingly.

“Jotaro, that’s enough!” Holy said, worried her son would revert to his delinquent days. “Don’t let him hurt him, Star Platinum.” Holy pleaded.

“What is Star Platinum?” Sadao asked, confused.

     Holy, Jotaro, and Star Platinum exchanged glances, unsure what to say.

“What the hell is going on here?” Sadao said frustratedly.

“Good grief. I’m heading home.” Jotaro said as he walked toward the door with Star Platinum floating at his side.

“Jotaro, what about dinner?” Holy asked.

     Jotaro left without exchanging another word. He returned to his bedroom and gathered his belongings before leaving. Star Platinum watched him with concern.

“Ora.”

“I’ll be fine once we’re home.” Jotaro responded.

Chapter Text

     Weeks passed since Jotaro encountered his father for the first time in years. He refocused on his new classes, which were now concentrated on his major. Though he had always achieved high marks, he was more enthusiastic about his current classes. Star Platinum curiously watched as Jotaro completed an assignment.

“…”

“This was for my oceanography course. It’s a bit heavy with chemistry if you ask me.” Jotaro sighed.

“…”

“Well, now that that’s finished, we still have time to do something today,” Jotaro said to his stand. “I almost forgot about my birthday.”

“…”

“It feels weird to think I’ve been alive for twenty years now,” Jotaro said as he stood up from his office chair. “Now that I think about it, we’ve been together for about as long. It feels like an anniversary or something.”

“…”

That sounded lame, Jotaro thought. Although, I wonder when exactly Star Platinum came into being. It must have been some time after my birth.

     Star Platinum approached Jotaro, his intense eyes penetrating the man. Jotaro smirked and cupped Star Platinum’s chin. Star Platinum studied Jotaro.

“Do you even know what that means?” Jotaro asked.

“…”

“I just realized that I am older than you. What do you have to say about that?” Jotaro smirked.

“…”

     Star Platinum put his arms around Jotaro and pulled him closer. Jotaro wrapped his arms around his stand, closing his eyes as he embraced his beloved stand.

Who knew the world’s most powerful stand was such a big sap, Jotaro thought.

“My life would lose meaning without you.” Jotaro muttered.

“..…”

     Star Platinum’s hands traveled lower, cupping Jotaro’s round cheeks. Jotaro felt his face become hot. He gently pushed Star Platinum away and turned away from him.

“You’re all mine later,” Jotaro said. “But right now, I want to visit the aquarium before they close.”

     After an uneventful walk through the streets of Yokohama, Jotaro and Star Platinum arrived at the aquarium. The pair explored the exhibits, observing the various marine life on display. Small children with their families were all around, making Jotaro stand out like a sore thumb even without the people around being able to see Star Platinum.

     Jotaro didn’t care nor notice at all how he was the only visitor who was seemingly unaccompanied. Only when the people around him looked at him, puzzled as he spoke to the invisible stand, would he remember how nobody else could see Star Platinum. Sometimes, people unknowingly walked through the ghostly stand, to Jotaro’s annoyance. Though it was completely unintentional, such occurrences painfully reminded Jotaro of his stand’s limitations in this world.

     Jotaro and Star Platinum proceeded through the exhibits until they noticed an unfamiliar door propped open in a hallway. Jotaro could not recall seeing this door open before, increasing his curiosity. He peered through the doorway and saw more glass tanks with coral.

It wouldn’t hurt to check it out, Jotaro thought as he entered the unknown area.

“Let’s go.” Jotaro said to his stand.

“…”

     He proceeded through the area, observing tanks full of sea life he had not seen at the other exhibits. He saw egg sacks of stingrays, two lionfish sharing a tank, a large tank full of Florida pompano, and a lone red grouper with a damaged fin. He noticed a staircase leading outside and climbed it. Jotaro was excited to see what else awaited them.

These animals are not from here, Jotaro thought. They look like they’re from Atlantic waters.

     Jotaro stepped outside to two massive blue tanks. He peered into the smaller one, which was housing two loggerhead turtles. The eldest turtle struggled to swim because one of its front flippers was significantly shorter than the other. A strange sound emitted from the other tank caught Jotaro’s attention. Star Platinum followed Jotaro; his curiosity piqued.

     Jotaro curiously approached the larger tank and was surprised to see two young dolphins. A smile formed on his face as he watched one surface for air, spraying water from its blowhole. One noticed Jotaro and swam alongside the tank to better see him. Star Platinum smiled as he watched the cetaceans swim past.

I’ve never been this close to a dolphin before, Jotaro thought. 

“Hi.”

     Jotaro and Star Platinum turned to face a young woman. Her blonde hair rested just above her shoulders, and her bright eyes sparkled blue. Her expression was flat and unreadable.

“I haven’t seen you before. You must’ve heard about the animals from Florida.” She spoke with her soft voice.

     Jotaro stared at her, unsure of what to say. Star Platinum focused on the woman.

She must think I work here, Jotaro thought as he observed her pretty face.

“Oh, I’m sorry. I don’t speak Japanese.” She apologized and looked unsure, believing the silence was due to a language barrier.

“It’s all right. I know English.” Jotaro responded.

“Oh, thank goodness.” She spoke. “I know it seems disrespectful coming to a country and not knowing even a little bit of the language, but I’m only here temporarily.” she explained. “I forgot my manners. My name is Electra, but my colleagues call me Ariel.”

“Ariel? Why do they call you that?” Jotaro asked.

“It’s the name of the mermaid in that film that came out a couple of years ago.” She explained. “I look nothing like her, but I can hold my breath for a long time. I usually clean the large tanks using only a mask and snorkel.”

“That’s impressive.” Jotaro responded.

“Thanks.” Electra replied, blushing.

“Are you from Florida too?” Jotaro asked.

“Yes. These animals are from an aquarium in Florida, where I work. I’m nearly finished with my degree in animal husbandry. My university allowed me to travel here for my final semester.” Electra explained.

"That’s interesting. I’m studying marine science.” Jotaro said.

“You picked a great field of study.” Electra said as she smiled, causing Jotaro’s heart to flutter. “So, what do you do for work here?” she asked.

What the hell is wrong with me? Jotaro thought as he glanced at Star Platinum, who was still studying Electra.

Jotaro looked down. “I don’t work here.” he replied bluntly.

“Oh.” Electra said, looking surprised.

“I was just visiting and saw an open door leading here,” Jotaro explained, feeling uncomfortable. “Forgive me for the intrusion.” Jotaro said as he placed his hands in his pockets and turned to leave.

“Wait,” Electra said. “I never got your name.”

Jotaro paused. “Jotaro Kujo.” He responded, his discomfort growing. “I should go.” he said as he began to walk away with his hands in his pockets.

“Jotaro, please wait.” Electra pleaded.

This doesn’t feel right, Jotaro thought. 

     Suddenly, Star Platinum grabbed Jotaro by the shoulders and forced him to turn around to face Electra again.

What the… what are you doing? Jotaro thought as he glanced at his stand before facing Electra.

“Would you like to touch one?” Electra asked, gesturing to the dolphins.

“Uhh…” Jotaro stumbled.

     Star Platinum gently pushed Jotaro toward Electra. Jotaro looked at Star Platinum in disbelief.

Is this okay? Jotaro thought.

“Come on, I can tell you want to.” Electra smiled.

     Jotaro felt his heart flutter in his chest. He nodded his head silently, and she chuckled.

“They have some sharp teeth, but they won’t bite. I promise.” Electra said as they approached the surface of the tank.

     Star Platinum watched as Jotaro stood at the edge of the tank. A huge smile was on his face. Jotaro looked at him again, still feeling unsure.

What has gotten into you? Jotaro thought as he glanced at Star Platinum. Maybe he just wanted to see the dolphins up close, too.

“This is Heart and Barracuda.” Electra referred to the dolphins. “Barracuda is the one with the big scar on her left side. Heart is the one with the stubby dorsal fin.” she explained. “They were both injured by a jet ski around the Florida Keys when they were young.”

“I see.” Jotaro said as the curious dolphins surfaced and made some clicking sounds.

“Go on, put your hand out.” Electra said.

     Jotaro raised his large hand out to a dolphin and stroked its head. The texture of the wet skin of the marine mammal was like that of an eggplant. He smiled as he petted the other dolphin. Barracuda opened her mouth, revealing her sharp teeth and making a high-pitched happy squeal.

“She wants you to feed her.” Electra chuckled as she stood up and retrieved some cold dead fish from a cooler to feed the cetaceans. “Just toss these to them. They’ll catch it.”

     Jotaro tossed the small fish to the dolphins. His smile grew as they effortlessly caught the fish with their mouths and swallowed them down in quick gulps. They flapped their fins as they excitedly begged for more. Their joyful squeals and head bobbing amused the pair.

“What do you think?” Electra asked.

“They’re cool.” Jotaro responded as he turned to look at her.

     Electra smiled warmly at him. Jotaro smiled back at her. Star Platinum smiled at the two.

“So, how long have you been in Japan?” Jotaro asked.

“It’s been about a month now.” Electra responded.

“What do you think of it?” Jotaro asked.

“Oh, I must admit I haven’t explored since I arrived. I work here and stay in an apartment with one of my colleagues.” Electra explained. “I’m afraid of getting lost.”

“Do you like sumo?” Jotaro asked.

What a dumb question; I doubt Americans know anything about the sport, Jotaro thought. And she’s a woman.

“I would love to see a match.” Electra said to Jotaro’s surprise.

“You’re in luck. This week is the last to see the January Tokyo tournaments.” Jotaro explained. “I’ve been thinking about going.”

“So it’s a date, then?” Electra asked.

     Jotaro glanced at Star Platinum. He was surprised his stand was focused on Electra, and his smile made it evident that perhaps the stand liked the young woman, too. Star Platinum exchanged glances with Jotaro, peering at him with anticipation.

Is this okay? Jotaro thought. I don’t know if he understands what’s happening, but he seems content.

“Jotaro?” Electra asked.

“Oh, sorry. It’s a date if you want it to be.” Jotaro responded finally. “Are you free this weekend?”

“Yes.” Electra smiled. “I’m looking forward to it already.”

“Do you live far? We can meet outside of here on Saturday at 3 pm.” Jotaro asked.

“I live only a short walk away. Meeting here is perfect.” Electra said.

“I’ll see you then,” Jotaro said as he stood up with his hands in his pockets. “Later.”

“See you Saturday, Jotaro.” Electra said as Jotaro exited the way he came.

     Jotaro and Star Platinum returned home. Jotaro thought about his encounter with Electra. It felt surreal as if he had just awoken from a good dream. Although, a strange feeling was gnawing at him. He looked at Star Platinum, who was peering at him.

“What do you think of her?” Jotaro asked.

“…”

“Normally, I’m not interested in Americans, but she’s an exception.” Jotaro said.

“…”

Jotaro chuckled. “Maybe you are into her too,” Jotaro said with a smirk. “Is that right?”

“…”

     Star Platinum smiled at Jotaro. The stand embraced the man and pulled him close. Jotaro closed his eyes as he hugged his mighty stand.

“Sap.” Jotaro muttered.

It’s fine. She’s only here temporarily before she returns to America, Jotaro thought. It wouldn’t hurt to have some fun. It’s not every day one meets a woman like that. And it seems that Star Platinum doesn’t mind, or perhaps he doesn’t understand.

Chapter Text

     Jotaro awoke in the arms of his stand. He yawned as he turned to face Star Platinum, whose bright aquamarine eyes greeted the man. Jotaro closed his eyes and settled closer to his beloved stand. Star Platinum rubbed Jotaro’s back before pulling the man closer to him. Jotaro felt his stiff shoulder pop.

“Easy.” Jotaro cautioned Star Platinum.

“…”

     Star Platinum kissed Jotaro’s forehead apologetically. Jotaro smirked. He could still feel the warmth of Star Platinum’s kiss on his skin.

Saturday mornings are always the best, Jotaro thought. There’s no need to get up early.

     Jotaro felt tightness in his pajama pants. It wasn’t unusual for this to happen in the mornings he slept in. He opened his eyes and gazed at Star Platinum, who was focused on the man. Jotaro looked away, still flustered, even though it happened many times before.

Your stare is still so intense, Jotaro thought as his hand slowly traveled across Star Platinum’s body.

     Jotaro could feel the raw strength of his stand. Star Platinum’s rippling muscles aroused him further as he traced his fingertips along the golden-yellow stripes of the mystical stand. Star Platinum watched Jotaro as he undid the clasp of his loincloth. Jotaro’s warm hand traveled to his stand’s groin. Star Platinum’s masculine eyes filled with hunger as Jotaro cupped his balls before stroking his hardening cock.

     Star Platinum’s large, gloved hand traveled to Jotaro’s waistband, pulling down his pants to access his erection. Jotaro felt hot as Star Platinum wrapped his hand around his member and pumped it. Precum oozed from the tip as Star Platinum found a pace to match Jotaro’s strokes.

No matter what we do, it’s always intense, Jotaro thought. Even a hand job like this brings me to the edge so fast.

     Jotaro exchanged glances with Star Platinum. Star Platinum leaned in toward Jotaro, pressing his lips against Jotaro’s. Jotaro closed his eyes as he kissed Star Platinum, slipping his tongue into his stand’s mouth for a passionate kiss. Their tongues danced as Jotaro’s pace quickened slightly.

     Star Platinum stretched his free hand toward Jotaro and trailed his fingertips down his chest. The sensations warmed Jotaro as he felt Star Platinum’s hand travel to his pelvis while the other hand pumped his cock. Star Platinum’s ghostly hand phased through Jotaro’s skin as it reached deep inside him. With his index finger, he stimulated Jotaro’s prostate.

“Mhm~!” Jotaro moaned wildly in Star Platinum’s mouth.

Shit, where does he get these ideas from? Jotaro thought as he glanced at his stand. It’s so intense, but it feels so fucking good. I’m not going to last much longer.

     Jotaro felt his body tense as he felt his orgasm rapidly approaching. Star Platinum’s pace increased as he gently stroked the gland. Jotaro bucked his hips as he came, moaning into Star Platinum’s mouth as the pair kissed. Star Platinum retracted his hand from inside Jotaro, and his strokes slowed to a stop once he sensed Jotaro’s cock becoming too sensitive to stimulate. The pair parted from their kiss as Jotaro huffed for air.

“That *huff* was amazing…” Jotaro panted.

“…”

Now to take care of you, Jotaro thought as he focused his attention on Star Platinum’s cock.

     Jotaro moved under the covers and took Star Platinum’s erection into his mouth. He licked the tip, teasing it with his warm tongue. He felt a rush of cool air as the blanket covering him was removed by his stand. Jotaro glanced at Star Platinum, taking in his stand’s fervent eyes as he sucked.

You can’t help but look, huh? Jotaro thought as his face flushed.

     Hours later, Jotaro got ready for his date. His mind was full of doubts, and he questioned whether he should go. He studied Star Platinum as he put on his jacket.

“…”

“Are you sure this is alright? I feel bad about going through with this.” Jotaro said.

“…”

“Do you even understand what’s going on?” Jotaro asked.

“…”

“Tch. The least you could do is nod your head or something.” Jotaro sighed.

Sometimes, I feel like I understand you, and other times, like now, I don’t know what’s going on in your mind, Jotaro thought. How frustrating.

“…”

“It’s like talking to a brick wall.” Jotaro muttered without the slightest hint of irony. “I’ll see you later.”

     Star Platinum faded back into Jotaro as the man departed from the apartment. He walked toward the aquarium. Not having his beloved stand accompany him through the noisy streets felt strange, but he felt some relief in his body and mind not having to focus on keeping his stand manifested.

I wonder where you go and what you do when you’re not at my side, Jotaro thought as he approached the aquarium entrance.

     Jotaro scanned his surroundings and recognized a blonde woman sitting alone on a bench. Electra stood up and smiled once she spotted Jotaro. Though most of her skin was covered by her winter attire, her clothes did not hide her lovely hourglass figure.

“Hey.” Jotaro greeted her with his hands in his pockets.

“Hi, Jotaro.” Electra greeted him warmly. “I’m excited to see the tournament.”

“Good. I’m looking forward to it. I can’t remember the last time I’ve seen a tournament.” Jotaro spoke. “We’re going to need to take a train to Ryogoku.”

“Great, let’s go.” Electra said as she joined Jotaro’s side, and they began walking toward the train station.

     The pair walked silently through the busy streets of Yokohama toward the train station. Electra scanned their surroundings as they walked, curious about the unfamiliar environment. They boarded a train, and Electra peered out the window as the bullet train barreled across the tracks through the town. Her blue eyes were filled with curiosity and wonder. Jotaro was unaware of the smile on his face as he saw her smiling reflection in the glass window. An odd feeling engulfed him.

I’ve never been out with her, yet I’m getting déjà vu, Jotaro thought.

     Jotaro thought about Star Platinum. Memories of their first time riding a train together to Ginza flooded his mind. He remembered that day fondly, recalling the moment when Star Platinum created a heart with his large hands. Jotaro felt his heart flutter.

“Tokyo is even bigger than I imagined.” Electra said.

“Oh, yeah? What’s it like in Florida?” Jotaro asked.

“Florida has some smaller cities, but it’s mostly swamps and cow pastures away from the cities and beaches. I live in St. Petersburg. There’s some of the best beaches in the world there.” Electra explained.

“St. Petersburg, like the one in Russia?” Jotaro asked.

Electra chuckled. “That’s right, but the locals call it St. Pete. If you like to go to the beach, it’s the place to go. The gulf waters are much more pleasant than the east coast, in my opinion.”

“There are some good beaches around here. Although, they get cramped during the summer.” Jotaro said with some annoyance.

“Yeah, sometimes when there’s too many people, it takes away from the nature aspect. I like the beach for the sound of the waves.” Electra explained.

“I couldn’t agree more.” Jotaro said.

     Jotaro thought about Star Platinum again. He recalled the night when he and Star Platinum visited Shichirigahama Beach. It was the night Jotaro confronted his feelings for his stand.

“I wish we could make this work…I do, Star Platinum. But I don’t know how… and for how long would it last?” Jotaro’s own words echoed through his mind from that night.

Think about something else, Jotaro thought.

     Relief washed over Jotaro as he noticed their train was slowing to a stop at the station in Ryogoku. The pair briefly walked from the train station to the stadium and found their seats. Electra scanned the stadium, surprised by how many people were in attendance.

“Jotaro, this event is even bigger than I imagined. You must have had to pull some strings to get seats for this.” Electra said as she smiled at the man.

“My father gets free tickets for stuff all the time, and he’ll give them to me if he doesn’t intend to go.” Jotaro explained.

“Wow. What does your father do?” Electra asked, her curiosity piqued.

“He’s a musician.” Jotaro replied dryly.

“What kind of music does he make?” Electra asked before taking a sip of her drink.

“Pure shit.” Jotaro said bluntly.   

Electra almost spat out her drink from laughing. “Tell me how you really feel!” she chuckled.

     The crowd fell silent as a man wearing traditional ceremonial attire stepped around the ring with at least a dozen sumo wrestlers behind him. The traditionally dressed man carried a fan and had a large knife tucked into his belt. Electra watched intently, unable to understand what was being said aside from the introductions of each wrestler.

“That guy wearing clothes there is called a gyōji. A referee.” Jotaro explained. “That’s a gunbai he’s carrying. It’s a Japanese war fan. He’ll point it at the winner.”

“What’s the knife for?” Electra whispered.

“If he makes a mistake, he’ll commit seppuku.” Jotaro replied with a mischievous smirk.

“Oh, how awful.” Electra said, surprised.

“I’m kidding. They used to do that, but they only carry it for the sake of tradition now.” Jotaro said with an amused smile.

“You had me there for a moment.” Electra said as she playfully pushed Jotaro’s shoulder, and she giggled.

     Jotaro’s attention turned back to the tournament. He could tell Electra was getting antsy in her seat as the first two wrestlers slowly began ritualistically preparing for the match in their corners. The large athletes stomped their feet and occasionally threw salt onto the ring. They faced off in the ring, stretching their arms upwards before returning briefly to their corners. Excited attendees shouted as the tension for the match grew.

She’s way more invested in the match than I anticipated, Jotaro thought as he watched Electra as she focused on the wrestlers.

     Her silence, combined with her blue-eyed fixed gaze, reminded Jotaro of Star Platinum. He turned away from her and watched the two wrestlers return to the ring and squat while facing each other. The fighters lunged suddenly with surprisingly explosive energy and pushed each other until one took a bad step and fell forward onto the ring. The crowd’s cheers thundered as the gyōji pointed his fan at the still-standing wrestler. The fallen sumo returned to his feet and bowed toward the winner before stepping out of the ring and bowing again before exiting.

“What do you think now?” Jotaro asked Electra as he turned to her.

“That was so fast. If I had blinked, I would have missed it.” Electra said, bewildered.

     Jotaro and Electra watched as more matches slowly started and quickly ended. Some matches continued longer as the more experienced wrestlers refused to be dominated in seconds. The crowd got rowdier during the longer matches as more famous wrestlers appeared.

“They remind me of bears. They lumber around like they’re in their own world, but when they attack, they’re vicious. I didn’t think they could move that fast.” Electra said.

“Now, when you put it that way, I can see it.” Jotaro observed. “That one wearing green is Kotonishiki Katsuhiro. He’s one of my favorites.” He said as the wrestler ritualistically stomped the ground.

“How come?” Electra asked.

“He’s got a real fighting spirit.” Jotaro explained. “It’s the trait I’m always looking for.”

     Jotaro smiled as the wrestler he was rooting for won the match. The last match was about to begin, and the crowd got even louder. Electra smiled as she anticipated the final showdown.

“I think the one wearing blue is going to win.” Electra commented.

“Wanna bet?” Jotaro smirked.

“You’re on.” Electra grinned.

“Loser buys dinner.” Jotaro stated.

“I hope you like sushi because that’s what we’ll eat when the one in blue wins.” Electra teased.

She’s cute, Jotaro thought as his focus returned to the match, and his eyes followed the other wrestler, who was wearing purple. But little does she know, it’s Hokutoumi’s last day. He’s not going to go down without a fight.

     Jotaro and Electra watched as the wrestlers squatted and touched the floor before violently clashing. Some people stood from their chairs as the tension gripped them. After battling for what felt like hours, the wrestler wearing purple was pushed out of the ring. The crowd thundered as the challenger took his first champion title.

“Good grief.” Jotaro sighed.

 “So, know any good sushi places?” Electra chuckled.

     Jotaro and Electra found a sushi restaurant near the stadium. Jotaro helped her order her food. Her smile seemed permanently fixed on her face.

“Thank you for taking me to the tournament. That was even better than I expected.” Electra said. “I learned a lot today.”

“Thanks for joining me.” Jotaro responded. “Maybe next time we could do something you want to do.”

“I would love to spend another day with you like this.” Electra responded.

     Her sparkly blue eyes captivated Jotaro. Her sweet smile and youthful glow kept his full attention on her. Though he hardly knew her, he felt he had known her for much longer than the few days since their first meeting.

     After dinner, the pair returned to the train station, where they took a bullet train back to Yokohama. They sat in peaceful silence as the train sped across the tracks, smiling as they reflected on the day. After arriving in Yokohama, Jotaro walked her to her home near the station, where they parted ways. She gave Jotaro her phone number, which she wrote on a napkin from the sushi restaurant.

     Jotaro returned home feeling tired but light on his feet. His home was dark, still, and silent, with school textbooks and random papers scattered across the table surfaces. A sketched picture of a puffer fish was stuck to the fridge with a magnet. It was one of Star Platinum’s works. Guilt filled Jotaro.

“Star Platinum.” Jotaro called.

     Star Platinum materialized and faced Jotaro. Jotaro looked at him worriedly. He was surprised when Star Platinum stretched out his large arms and hugged the man.

“I missed you, too.” Jotaro said.

“…..”

Chapter Text

     Jotaro walked along the sandy beach of Shichirigahama. It was the first day of spring break. Star Platinum floated at his side as he walked only inches from the gentle waves crashing along the shore. Jotaro promised Star Platinum that they would spend some time out together, worrying that his stand would resent him for spending his weekends seeing Electra.

“Today is the perfect day for this.” Jotaro stated as he felt the warm sunlight on his exposed arms and lower legs, his white pants cuffed and rolled up as he walked barefoot.

“…”

     Jotaro gazed at Star Platinum. Star Platinum watched as a speedboat passed by a large fishing vessel in the distance. The mighty stand’s luminescent skin sparkled in the sun like shiny fish scales in the light. The gentle sea breeze swept through his hair. Star Platinum turned to face Jotaro.

“Look at you, always so majestic.” Jotaro said.

“…”

     Star Platinum got closer to Jotaro and picked him up, spinning him around. Jotaro’s anxiety surged at the thought of being seen by onlookers, but the beachgoers around him didn’t seem to notice him as he was lifted in the air by seemingly nothing. Star Platinum placed Jotaro down and kissed his forehead.

“It’s okay, you just caught me by surprise.” Jotaro said as he glanced at their surroundings. “And it looks like nobody saw.”

Sometimes, I wish everyone could see you, Jotaro thought.

     Jotaro noticed a young man walking by him, almost bumping shoulders with him. His blood boiled when he witnessed the beachgoer drop his empty plastic drink bottle. The waves reached it, nearly pulling the plastic bottle into the ocean as the waves receded.

“Hey!” Jotaro shouted. “You dropped your trash.”

“Yeah? So what?” the man said as he sized up Jotaro.

“Pick it up.” Jotaro ordered.

“Whatever, hippie.” The guy said as he continued his walk, speeding up his pace to escape Jotaro.

“Fucking coward.” Jotaro said through gritted teeth.

“…”

     Jotaro glanced at Star Platinum and had an idea. He crouched down, picked up the bottle, and unscrewed the cap. He filled the bottle with wet sand and water and sealed the cap. He tossed it with one hand to check its weight.

It’s heavy enough to leave a mark, Jotaro thought. And now, for the fun part.

     Jotaro handed the sand-filled bottle to Star Platinum. Star Platinum took the bottle and examined it. He glanced at Jotaro.

“Throw it at that bastard as hard as you can. Aim for his head.” Jotaro instructed.

“…”

     Star Platinum’s intense gaze was fixed on the offender. His grip around the bottle tightened as he focused on the cowardly man. Star Platinum lifted his left leg skyward, building up his momentum and preparing his strong body for the long throw.

“ORA!” Star Platinum shouted as he catapulted the bottle across the beach.

     The bottle rapidly cut through the air, unbeknownst to the intended target. With a loud crack, it struck the man in the back of the head. The force of the blow knocked him down into the wet sand below. As the man lay dazed on the sand, a sudden wave crashed into him, filling his eyes and nostrils with the cool salty water. Jotaro grinned.

“Nice throw.” Jotaro praised Star Platinum.

“…..”

     Star Platinum hugged Jotaro. Jotaro smiled as he hugged Star Platinum, not caring whether people saw him. Suddenly, Star Platinum released Jotaro and looked behind him. Confused, Jotaro turned around and saw a familiar blonde woman in shorts and a t-shirt with the Yokohama aquarium logo. She was accompanied by a young man and woman at her side, both wearing matching aquarium shirts.

That’s Electra, Jotaro thought. I didn’t expect her to be out here. And who is that guy?

     Electra spotted him, looking quite surprised herself. She approached him, and her companions followed her. Jotaro noticed her lovely and exposed long legs as she walked barefoot, carrying her sandals and a box of vials with the aquarium logo on the side. Her female companion glanced up and down at Jotaro, admiring his muscular physique.

“Hey, Jotaro! I didn’t think I would run into you out here.” Electra said with her beautiful smile.

“Likewise.” Jotaro said as he leaned to his side.

“Oh, how rude of me. I should introduce you to my American colleagues. This is Amy and Jason.” Electra said.

“Konnichiwa.” Jason said politely while bowing.  

“Oh, so you’re Jotaro! Ariel told me a lot about you.” Amy said. “Do you have any single brothers?”

“Amy!” Electra beamed before she laughed.

“Good grief. I’m afraid not.” Jotaro said dryly, hiding his amusement.

“Oh, darn it. Well, it was worth a shot.” Amy chuckled.

“We’re out here collecting some water samples for testing at the aquarium.” Electra explained to Jotaro.

“Don’t you guys get a spring break at all?” Jotaro asked.

“Not really. There isn’t much time left here, so we’re doing as much as possible before we leave next month.” Electra explained.

“Well, we are done collecting samples for the day. Ariel, why don’t you go with Jotaro, and we’ll head back to the aquarium?” Amy suggested.

“Oh, I don’t know. Maybe Jotaro came out here alone for some quiet time.” Electra said.

She’s so thoughtful, Jotaro thought.

“All I have is free time for the next week.” Jotaro said while shrugging.

Electra smiled. “I’ll see you two later.” She said to her colleagues.

“Have fun, lovebirds.” Amy teased.

     Jotaro and Electra watched as Amy and Jason walked to the street by the beach. Star Platinum smiled as Electra and Jotaro turned to each other, looking somewhat flustered. Star Platinum pushed Jotaro toward Electra, causing him to bump into her. Her blush intensified by his sudden boldness.

“Sorry.” Jotaro apologized.

I’m sorry, Star Platinum, Jotaro thought. This was supposed to be our day out together.

“It’s alright. My legs get weak when I’m around you, too.” Electra said with her sweet smile.

Cute, Jotaro thought with a grin.

“Well, the day is still young. Is there anything you want to do?” Jotaro asked.

“I love the beach, but I heard it’s the start of the cherry blossom season. I’ve seen a few trees already, but I would love to go somewhere with several trees in bloom.” Electra explained.

Jotaro glanced toward the sea as he thought of places they could go. “I know a place.” Jotaro said. “We’ll need to take a train.”

“Righto. You lead the way!” Electra said excitedly.

     Jotaro and Electra left the beach and headed for the train station. Star Platinum followed Jotaro, watching Electra with curiosity as she was unaware of the mystical being’s presence. As they waited for the train, Electra gazed at a merchant’s newspaper and magazine stand. Her eyes lit up as she recognized someone in the headlines.

“Hey, Jotaro. Isn’t that one of the sumo wrestlers we saw at the tournament?” Electra asked as she inspected the cover, unable to read the pages printed in Japanese.

“Yeah, that’s Kotonishiki Katsuhiro.” Jotaro said as he inspected the cover with the unflattering photo of the sumo.

“I hope nothing bad happened to him.” Electra said. “What does it say?”

Jotaro scanned through the article. “He proposed to a woman, but he’s been secretly married this entire time.” Jotaro summarized.

“Oh, that’s disappointing,” Electra said while frowning. “And I thought that behavior only really happened back home.”

“What do you mean?” Jotaro asked as he watched as their train arrived at the station.

“Oh, I don’t know.” Electra shifted uncomfortably. “Lots of American men just seem so unfaithful. I hope I’m wrong, though.” She said as she and Jotaro boarded the train.

“My grandfather is American. He’s old as dirt and has been married to the same woman for almost half a century.” Jotaro said as he and Electra took their seats. “He’s a weird guy, but I don’t think he would cheat. I couldn’t imagine any woman to love such a comic geek except for my grandmother.”

“Yeah, maybe I’m just being pessimistic.” Electra sighed. “I had a feeling you had some American or European family.”

“My grandfather in America is British, and my grandmother is Italian on my mother’s side. My father’s side is Japanese.” Jotaro explained.

“I’m Italian-American.”  Electra said as she thought about her family. “My folks call me Stellina.”

“What does it mean?” Jotaro asked.

“Little Star.” Electra responded with an amused smile.

     Star Platinum smiled. The bullet train began its journey to the next stop, noisily taking off from the coastal station.

“You have a lot of nicknames. Ariel and Stellina.” Jotaro teased.

“Do you have any nicknames?” Electra asked.

“One.” Jotaro said. “Some girls back in high school used to call me JoJo.”

And some of those bitches followed me to college, Jotaro thought with annoyance.

“JoJo.” Electra repeated. “I don’t know why, but it suits you.”

“I always thought it sounded stupid, but thanks.” Jotaro said dryly.

Electra chuckled. “You’re a funny guy, Jotaro. Hey-” she said as Jotaro’s star-shaped birthmark caught her eye. “I didn’t know you had a tattoo.”

“It’s a birthmark.” Jotaro explained.

“That’s so neat. It’s a perfect star shape, too.” Electra said as she turned to look out the window again to look at the town they were passing through.

It’s the mark of being a Joestar, Jotaro thought as he turned and gazed at Star Platinum, who was also peering out of the window. After returning home from Egypt, I thought a normal life would never be possible. However, these last couple of years have been uneventful, aside from falling in love with my stand.

     Jotaro, Electra, and Star Platinum arrived at Sakuragichō Station and exited the train. After a brief walk, they arrived at a park with traditional Japanese architecture, precisely shaped bushes, and dozens of Sakura blossoms. A tall statue of a man dressed in 19th-century Japanese attire stood like a guardian of the area. Electra smiled as she observed their surroundings. Enjoying the beautiful spring day, dozens of people sat on tarps and picnic blankets under the trees. Jotaro spotted an unoccupied bench under a tree, where he and Electra sat.

“Jotaro, it’s wonderful here.” Electra said in awe as she glanced up at the Sakura blossoms above them.

“It’s nice.” Jotaro said as he reclined in his seat and stretched his arm. “Kamonyama Park is famous for these trees.”

      Jotaro’s fingertips brushed Electra’s. Electra blushed at the sensation of his hand but did not pull hers away. Jotaro felt Star Platinum’s eyes on him and hesitated. He glanced at his stand, who was watching him curiously. He locked eyes with him.

Are you sure this is fine? Jotaro thought. Aren’t you the slightest bit envious of this woman? Maybe you’re still not getting it.

     Jotaro studied his stand carefully, looking into his eyes and trying to decipher what the powerful stand could be thinking. He undoubtedly loved Star Platinum, but there was no denying that their relationship was anything but ordinary. Jotaro’s old worries resurfaced, causing him to contemplate the ethics of his actions.

We’re tied together, but I have more physicality in this world than you do, Jotaro thought. When it comes down to it, I’m your only choice. Would you still love me if I did something unfaithful to you? Is your interest in Electra only due to my desires? Damn it, say something!

“…”

“Hey, Jotaro.” Electra said, interrupting his thoughts.

“What?” Jotaro asked as he turned to look at her.

“Have you ever been in love before?” Electra asked.

     Jotaro considered her question but was unsure how to answer it. Thoughts of Kakyoin and Star Platinum entered his mind, and even Electra, to his surprise, entered his mind.

 “I think so.” Jotaro said, attempting to conceal his discomfort.

“That’s a bizarre answer.” Electra chuckled. “Sounds like it’s complicated.”

That’s an understatement, Jotaro thought.

“You’re not wrong.” Jotaro responded.

“Don’t worry, I won’t pry.” Electra said, causing Jotaro to feel relief.

     The two sat in silence, watching as the pink and delicate petals of the Sakura blossoms fluttered around them in the spring breeze. The sun's warmth fought the last of winter’s dying grip as the children who were free from school flew colorful kites across the park. These peaceful moments gave Jotaro hope that his life would mean something worthwhile beyond a Joestar's fate.

     Jotaro’s large hand reached for Electra’s, covering her hand with his. She turned to look at Jotaro with a pink flush across her face. Jotaro turned away and bowed his head slightly, concealing his face with the brim of his hat.

Chapter Text

     Jotaro stood in the shower, spacing out as the warm water ran down his body. Star Platinum remained outside the shower, pressing a fingertip against the foggy mirror as he created an image unbeknownst to Jotaro. Jotaro watched as the water went down the drain.

Electra is leaving tomorrow, Jotaro thought as he frowned. She’ll be happy once she returns home, and our lives will return to how they were.

     Memories of the past flooded Jotaro’s mind. He recalled the funeral held for Kakyoin. Jotaro’s hand shook as he remembered the face of his fallen companion and his family. Kakyoin’s parents were both relieved and mortified over the ordeal. Their missing son was found at last, but they would never get to tell him how much they loved and missed him. Jotaro remembered a night he spent with Kakyoin during their travels to Egypt.

“JoJo.” Kakyoin said as he stepped onto a balcony where his traveling companion smoked a cigarette. “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine.” Jotaro said as he puffed his cigarette and kept his gaze on the stars above.

“It’s 3 am.” Kakyoin said as he fought against yawning.

“Then you should go back to sleep.” Jotaro replied.

“We’re crossing the desert tomorrow. You should rest.” Kakyoin asserted.

“…”

     Kakyoin approached Jotaro and stood beside him, leaning against the balcony railing as he joined the man to gaze at the clear night sky. He glanced at Jotaro, who kept a stoic expression as always. Kakyoin’s gaze returned to the stars.

“It’s fine. You don’t have to tell me.” Kakyoin said.

“What are you talking about?” Jotaro asked before taking another puff of his cigarette.

“You have something on your mind but don’t know what to do with it.” Kakyoin said. “I can tell just by looking at you that you’re hiding something.”

“Give me a break.” Jotaro said as he turned to Kakyoin and blew his cigarette smoke at him. “It pisses me off when people try to psychoanalyze me. Since we’ve been on this trip, I noticed you’re not sleeping much either.”

“People probably wouldn’t do that if only you could show some emotion occasionally.” Kakyoin argued angrily. “I don’t think you even notice how passionless you are.”

“Does it bother you?” Jotaro asked.

Kakyoin sighed. “Of course not. I know you. You don’t show it, but you’re full of emotions. I’ve seen how expressive your stand, Star Platinum is.”

“You’re observant.” Jotaro commented and took another puff of his cigarette. “So, what’s eating you?”

“I worry about my parents. I left without telling them I was going anywhere.” Kakyoin admitted with a sigh. “They probably think I ran away again.”

“Again?” Jotaro asked, an amused grin forming as he turned to study Kakyoin.

“Don’t patronize me.” Kakyoin snapped. “You don’t know how isolating it was to be a stand user from birth.”

     Jotaro let out a chuckle. He placed his cigarette in an ashtray and turned back to the stars. Kakyoin tightened his fist and furrowed his brow.

“Why are you such an asshole?” Kakyoin asked.

“I’m not trying to be. Quit deluding yourself into thinking that being a stand user is the only thing that kept you isolated.” Jotaro said.

“What are you saying?” Kakyoin asked with his anger still raw.

“You're different from others, Kakyoin.” Jotaro explained. “I mean that in a good way.”

“Like what?” Kakyoin said, intrigued and perplexed.

     Jotaro glanced at Kakyoin. “You’re intelligent, kind, and brave. Though you’re no match against me and my Star Platinum, I respect your strengths.” Jotaro explained. “I wish more people were like that. Like you.”

“Jotaro…” Kakyoin said, touched by his companion’s words. “I don’t feel all that strong. I’m weak. I bowed down to some heartless monster like Dio.” he said as he glanced down at the ground below them.

“What is strength to you?” Jotaro asked as he studied Kakyoin.

Kakyoin thought deeply before answering. “Knowing when to hold on and when to let go.” Kakyoin said. “Even further, the ability to hold on and let go.”

“So then, what are you holding on to? Or rather, what do you regret letting go?” Jotaro asked.

Kakyoin frowned. “It’s not any of those things. My fear is rooted in having to choose when the moment comes.”

“We’re all afraid of it.” Jotaro said before he yawned. “Come on, let’s rest.” he said as he stepped toward their hotel room. 

“Jotaro.” Kakyoin called.

“Yeah?” Jotaro responded, turning to face the shorter man.

“What is strength to you?” Kakyoin asked.

Jotaro lowered his head, concealing his eyes with the brim of his hat. “Strength is about how much pain you can take.” Jotaro said ominously as he turned away and retreated inside the hotel room.

“By that logic, you must have taken on a lot of pain.” Kakyoin muttered as he returned to his bed.

You held on until you couldn’t anymore, Jotaro thought as the warm water began to run cold. And I held onto you because I was too weak to let go. I hope Dio is burning in hell for what he did.

     Jotaro closed his eyes as the cold water sent a chill through his body. The sensation was uncomfortable at first until it became sobering. Goosebumps formed across his body as his senses adjusted to the frigid water. Star Platinum pulled the curtain and turned off the water. He wrapped Jotaro in a dry towel and embraced the man, trying to use his warm body to warm his beloved user. Jotaro leaned into Star Platinum.

“…”

Your will to protect me is so strong that I could believe you can read my thoughts, Jotaro thought. Since arriving home from Egypt, you’ve been fighting to protect me from myself.

“Hey, Jotaro.” Electra said as Jotaro approached her. “Are you okay? You look pale.”

“I’m fine. How are you?” Jotaro asked with his hands in his pockets.

“Honestly, I don’t know how to answer that.” Electra said with a sigh. “I’m sad that today is my last day here, but I’m excited to return home.”

“I get that.” Jotaro replied. “Is there anything you want to do?”

“Maybe just one more walk through the city.” Electra suggested.

“Sounds good.” Jotaro replied as the two began walking.

     Jotaro and Electra spent the day exploring Yokohama together. Though the weather is typically divine in Yokohama during April, a stray rainstorm appeared toward the end of the day as Jotaro was walking Electra back to her home. Just as the rain began, Jotaro realized they were only a couple minutes from his apartment, and he invited her to stay until the rain ended.

“That storm came out of nowhere. I’m soaked.” Electra complained as she stepped inside his apartment.

     Jotaro felt the desire to change into some dry clothes, feeling uncomfortable in his damp clothing, which stuck to his cold skin. He glanced at Electra and noticed her white shirt was soaked, revealing the outline of her bra underneath. Jotaro looked away.

“You can borrow some of my clothes.” Jotaro said as he stepped toward his bedroom.

“Thanks.” Electra said as she shivered.

     After the pair changed into dry clothes, they sat together on the couch in the living room. They watched the pouring rain in silence as they sat. Jotaro glanced at Electra.

My clothing is several sizes too big on her, and yet she’s still so beautiful, Jotaro thought as he scanned her, noticing her nipples slightly protruding through the baggy t-shirt she wore.

“What’s the weather like in Florida?” Jotaro asked, attempting to distract his thoughts from his growing arousal.

“It’s nowhere as pleasant as it is here. It’s sweltering and humid.” Electra said with disgust. “I miss it, though.”

“Why do you miss it if you don’t like it?” Jotaro asked.

“It’s home.” Electra replied. “My dad’s job always forced my family to move around, so I lived across several states, but Florida was always my favorite. After graduating high school, I moved back to Florida for college. My dad retired from his military job and moved with my mom to Florida to stay close.”

“So, you couldn’t see yourself living here?” Jotaro asked.

“I love Japan, but I can’t live here.” Electra responded with a sigh. “I couldn’t imagine living elsewhere than Florida.” she explained.

“I see.” Jotaro replied.

“But…” Electra started. “I’m going to miss you.”

“I’ll be here. If you ever come back anytime, let me know.” Jotaro said.

“I’m afraid that…” Electra trailed off. “I probably won’t be coming back here again.”

“Why not?” Jotaro asked.

“Since I arrived here, I was feeling down. I missed home more than I ever imagined. The culture here is so different from my own. Everyone spends their lives working down to the bone. I watched as the trains filled up with thousands of unhappy people, working for a wage that could never catch up to the cost of living. They work so hard for hours on end, rarely seeing the sunlight at all some days.” Electra explained. “It’s tragic. I can’t live like that. I couldn’t live in a bustling city like this.”

“I understand,” Jotaro said. “What does a happy life look like to you?”

Electra paused for a moment to think. “A life of having hope and feeling satisfied, I suppose,” Electra responded. “Some might say we’re wasting our lives chasing rainbows, but having something to hope for is just as important as living in the present. What do you think?”

“I think it all depends on what satisfies someone. Sometimes, the things one pursues for satisfaction will lead to their undoing.” Jotaro thought as he thought about Dio.

Electra smiled. “You’re a deep thinker, Jotaro. I love that about you.” She said as she glanced up at Jotaro, her blue eyes sparkling like sapphires.

“Tch.” Jotaro muttered, flustered.

     Electra turned her attention back to the rain and fell silent. Jotaro felt a change in her demeanor and noticed a single tear roll down her cheek. She raised her arm to wipe it away and took a short breath as she attempted to collect herself.

“Hey…” Jotaro said. “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine.” Electra responded.

“I’m going to miss you, too.” Jotaro confessed.

     Electra turned back to Jotaro. Her eyes revealed her sorrow, and Jotaro related her feelings. Though he found displaying expressions unnecessary, his eyes betrayed him. His eyes were full of desire for her. He watched as her sad eyes changed, revealing her desire for him. The two stared, locked in a battle between their apprehension and longing. Jotaro felt his heart pound in his chest.

     Simultaneously, the two leaned in with their eyes closed and kissed. The touch of their lips felt like a surge of electricity through their bodies, and the warmth of their lips ignited their passions further. Electra placed her hands on Jotaro’s shoulders, and his hands wrapped around her waist, pulling her closer to him. Their kiss deepened as Jotaro pressed his tongue at the entrance of her mouth. She parted her lips, welcoming his warm tongue inside. Their tongues danced together, exploring their mouths. Her body became hot in his hands as he effortlessly lifted her onto his lap.

     Jotaro’s large hands ran across her body before slipping underneath her oversized shirt, fondling her perky breasts. She moaned in his mouth as the tip of his thumb brushed her sensitive nipple. Her body ground against his growing erection through his pants. He rose to his feet, carrying her to his bed as they continued to kiss.

     Jotaro lowered her down onto the bed. They parted lips and gazed at each other, knowing they were past the point of no return. Electra removed her T-shirt, revealing her bare breasts. Jotaro lowered down, licking and sucking on her nipples as she let out breathy gasps. She tugged on his shirt, begging him to remove it. The sensation of the tug reminded him of Star Platinum, who would sometimes tug his jacket to get his attention.

Damn it, I can’t stop, Jotaro thought as he tried to push the thoughts of his stand away.

     Jotaro removed his shirt. Electra’s eyes traveled to the tent in his pants, and she stroked it, making his erection jolt at the touch. Jotaro undid his belts and lowered his pants, revealing his cock. Electra took it in her hand and gently pumped it.

Her grip is so weak, Jotaro thought.

     Jotaro reached for the waistband of the joggers she borrowed from him and pulled them down, revealing her wetness. Jotaro’s strong hands ran across her body as she began to part her legs, dying for his touch. His hand slipped down between her legs, and he ran his fingers across her slicked lips. Electra gasped at the sensation.

“Wait…” Electra whispered. “I have a condom in my bag.” she said bashfully, glancing away.

     Jotaro glanced at her purse, which she had placed on his nightstand. He watched as she reached for it and pulled out a square-shaped wrapper. Electra tore the wrapper and took out the lubricated condom. She returned to Jotaro and rolled it onto his member.

It feels awful, Jotaro thought.

“Be gentle.” Electra muttered as she lay down and parted her legs again.

     Jotaro positioned himself between her legs and lowered his head. He kissed her thighs lovingly before sliding his tongue across her wet pussy. She gasped as his warm tongue stimulated her clitoris. The sensation made her muscles tense as Jotaro’s hands traveled under her legs, and he pulled her even closer to him as he ate her out. Her moans aroused him further as she gripped the sheets.

“Jotaro, I want you. Please…” Electra begged.

     Jotaro obliged, rising to grab a pillow to position under her lower back. He repositioned himself, aligning himself with Electra as he pressed his hard cock against her wet lips and held her legs. He gently thrust his hips, teasing the sensitive area with his tip and shaft. The sensation drove Electra crazy, making her grind almost involuntarily against him.

“Please…” she begged with her lust-filled eyes.

     Jotaro pulled back slightly before pressing his tip against her entrance until her tight, wet walls gave way. Her body tensed as his cock entered inside of her. She gasped at the overwhelming sensation of him filling her. He felt his heart flutter as he pushed in deeper, and the tip of his cock met some resistance. Electra jolted in a mixture of pain and pleasure.

“Jotaro, be gentle!” she cried.

“Sorry.” Jotaro said as he paused.

     Once Electra’s body relaxed, Jotaro pulled back his hips before pushing them back toward her again. She moaned and gripped the sheets. Jotaro felt her tight walls contract around him. Though the sensation of her body was sublime, Jotaro’s mind wandered.

Regular sex is different than what I’ve grown used to, Jotaro thought. The constant overstimulation has numbed me.

     Jotaro found a rhythm, thrusting into Electra as roughly as she would permit, which was far from what Jotaro found satisfying. Jotaro glanced down at her. He saw her pale face flushed pink with the scant sunlight penetrating the room. The rain roared as it pelted against the roof. She peered up at him, huffing as he thrust into her.

She’s so beautiful, Jotaro thought. I love her, but we shouldn’t be together. I’m a broken man. I shouldn’t even be doing this, but I can’t stop.

     Jotaro increased his pace, rocking the bed like a ship at sea during a storm. His ocean-blue eyes scanned her bare body. Electra’s chest flushed red with the increased circulation as she felt herself drowning in waves of pleasure. Her full breasts bounced as Jotaro pounded her.

“Jotaro!” Electra moaned as she felt herself on the brink of orgasm.

     Jotaro felt her wet walls grip him tightly as she wrapped her legs around him, pulling him closer to her. Jotaro lowered himself over her while keeping his pace, allowing her to cling to his shoulders as she climaxed. He felt the pleasurable, burning sting of her nails raking his back. He remembered the familiar sensation. Jotaro thought of Star Platinum.

     Jotaro came, groaning as he thrust into Electra. His pace slowed to a stop. He peered down at Electra, who was panting heavily. She glanced at Jotaro, her eyes filled with sweet adoration for him. It felt like a knife went through his heart as he recalled that same look in his stand’s eyes.

Forgive me, Jotaro thought.

     Jotaro slowly pulled out. He panted as he repositioned himself to lie next to Electra, who was still trying to catch her breath. She cuddled up to Jotaro, resting her head on his chest and closing her eyes.

“That *huff* was amazing.” Electra said as she panted.

“…”

     Jotaro felt frozen. His mind was usually preoccupied with his thoughts, but now, he struggled to think. He never realized it before, but his seemingly never-ending thoughts would hush when he was with someone he loved. Only when he was with Star Platinum, the powerful and silent figure, could he hear himself think. His admirers' constant noise and distraction oftentimes irritated him, but now, he was unsure how to feel knowing that those who could speak had inadvertently silenced his thoughts. Star Platinum's silence allowed Jotaro to think and to process his feelings, even when he struggled. Now, he felt like he couldn’t feel anything else but fear.

“My fear is rooted in having to choose when the moment comes.” Kakyoin’s words echoed in Jotaro’s mind.

This was a mistake, Jotaro thought. I was crazy to think I could ever live a normal life after everything I’ve done.

“Shit!” Electra said, interrupting Jotaro’s thoughts.

“What?” Jotaro asked.

“The condom…” Electra said, horrified.

     Jotaro glanced down. The condom had broken. Electra ran her fingers through the fluid on her inner thigh that gushed from her. It was undeniably Jotaro’s semen.

“Fuck.” Jotaro cursed and gripped the brim of his hat.

“It’s okay. I’m getting my period soon.” Electra said, flustered. “I’m sorry.”

“What are you apologizing for?” Jotaro asked.

“I don’t regret it at all. I’m just sorry this killed the mood.” Electra said.

“It’s fine.” Jotaro said as he peered out the window. “It’s still raining, and it’s getting dark. Why don’t you stay the night?”

“Only if it’s not any trouble.” Electra said as she turned and noticed a portrait on Jotaro’s nightstand next to her bag. “Who are they? And why is the frame broken?”

     Jotaro turned and looked at his prized picture of him and the other Stardust Crusaders. Though Star Platinum wasn’t in the picture, the broken glass from when his stand gripped the frame too hard during the move to Yokohama reminded Jotaro of his beloved stand. He felt sickly at the thought of his betrayal. Though Star Platinum seemed to approve of the relationship, something felt off. Jotaro felt regret.

“That’s a story for another day.” Jotaro replied, knowing he had no intention of explaining the story behind the image.

   The following day, Jotaro accompanied Electra to the airport. They walked in silence as they approached the terminal. Though Jotaro had strong feelings for Electra, he felt some relief that she was leaving now. She could return to her life in America, and Jotaro would remain in Japan, trying to mend the supposed fracture in his relationship with his stand. Electra checked into her flight, and the plane began boarding.

“Jotaro, I want to thank you for everything. You taught me so much about Japan and showed me its beauty.” Electra said.

“It was nothing.” Jotaro replied.

“Please watch over Heart and Barracuda at the aquarium. I’m going to miss seeing those two.” Electra said with a sad smile.

“Of course.” Jotaro replied.

     Electra turned and saw the line dwindling as passengers went down the hall and boarded the plane. She watched her colleagues as they turned and beckoned at her. She turned and peered up at Jotaro.

“Jotaro…” Electra said in a whisper as her eyes became heavy with tears. “I love you.”

     Before Jotaro could react, Electra turned and ran down the hallway, sobbing as she clutched her carry-on bag. Amy embraced her to console her. Amy looked up at Jotaro and nodded at him knowingly with a sad smile. She helped Electra onto the plane. Jason glanced at Jotaro one last time, his expression unchanging as he turned around and entered the plane, disappearing from view.

“Good grief.” Jotaro muttered as he gripped the brim of his hat.

It’s better this way, Jotaro thought. Electra deserves someone who won’t think about anyone else when she’s with him.

Chapter Text

     Jotaro scanned his eyes across the familiar yet alien surroundings. The water around him rippled as he moved. Star Platinum appeared by his side, scanning their surroundings before focusing on the distant needle-like water tower ascending to the cosmos. Star Platinum tightened his fists.

“See something?” Jotaro asked.

“…”

     Jotaro felt a chill up his spine. His eyes widened as he focused on the top of the tower, sensing an undeniably evil presence that was all too familiar to him. At the top of the building stood two figures. Their features were indistinguishable from Jotaro due to the distance, but he could feel in his bones that it was Dio and his stand, The World.

“Impossible…” Jotaro muttered, his hands beginning to tremble.

“…”

      The gentle ripples along the water’s surface rapidly evolved into fierce waves. In seconds, the endless, ethereal sea transformed into a violent expanse. The faint, cloudless, heavenly blue sky darkened.

“It’s Dio!” Jotaro said, tightening his fists.

I’ll have to kill him again, Jotaro thought as he trudged through the vicious waters toward the tower.

     Star Platinum followed Jotaro, floating over the water. Jotaro’s rage increased as he approached the tower, remembering his lost friends. He remembered how his mother was ill and dying. He remembered his greatest regret. Jotaro glanced up at the tower and froze. He watched in horror as Kakyoin, Avdol, and Iggy plummeted from the tower helplessly.

“No!” Jotaro cried as he struggled through the deep water. “I won’t let you all die.”

     Star Platinum grabbed Jotaro, preventing him from advancing. Jotaro looked at Star Platinum. His stand’s expression changed from one of anger to concern. He looked into Jotaro’s eyes pleadingly.

“Let go!” Jotaro demanded, struggling to fight back against his stand.

“Jotaro.” Star Platinum spoke.

     Jotaro gasped as he awoke in his bed. Star Platinum held him in his arms as the man panted and looked around wildly. The rising sun faintly illuminated the dark bedroom. Jotaro rested his head once he understood it was just a nightmare.

“…”

“Thanks for waking me.” Jotaro murmured and nestled into his stand’s arms.

“…”

     Jotaro still felt his heart pumping in his chest. His anxious eyes wandered, settling on the broken frame at his bedside. He felt uneasy. Star Platinum’s grip around him tightened as he pulled the man closer.

“Ora.” Star Platinum said.

“I know.” Jotaro sighed. “I could use some fresh air. Let’s go to the beach today.”

     Jotaro gazed out at the restless sea. The budding marine biologist was not surprised at the water’s choppiness. On the distant horizon was an approaching storm, prompting many summer beachgoers to depart early. Although natural, the moon was visible in the afternoon sky, which felt ominous to the young man. The wind rustled Jotaro’s ivory jacket and tousled Star Platinum’s majestic hair. Star Platinum glanced at Jotaro, who was lost in his thoughts.

Something isn’t right, Jotaro thought as his hand trembled. I don’t know what it is, but I can sense it.  

“…”

     Jotaro glanced at Star Platinum, who appeared concerned for the man. Star Platinum’s intense aquamarine eyes beckoned him to speak, to share his troubles. Jotaro wondered if Star Platinum could sense the same feeling.

“You feel it too, right?” Jotaro asked. “When Dio was near, I could feel it. I could feel it in a place I can’t describe, like some sixth sense.”

“…”

Jotaro’s hand trembled. “He’s dead.” Jotaro stated, looking to Star Platinum for reassurance. “It’s all just my imagination.”

“…”

     Star Platinum approached Jotaro and held him close. The feeling of his mighty stand’s warm body compressing him was soothing. His stand’s muscles were solid like a rock. The sensation of them squeezing his smaller frame made Jotaro feel safe. Star Platinum released Jotaro and smiled warmly. A faint smile crept onto Jotaro’s face. The sorrow in the young man’s eyes persisted.

Since Electra left, things went back to normal between us, Jotaro thought. I feared you wouldn’t be able to look at me the same way as before, but either you forgave me or never fully understood what was happening. Right now, I’m glad that it’s all behind us.

“Come on, children. The wind is picking up. We need to leave now before it gets worse,” a mother said to her two small children, who were preoccupied with building sandcastles by the restless shore.

“But we just got here!” the young girl pouted.

“I know, I know. But a storm is approaching. We can get some ice cream instead and return another day.” The mother insisted.

     Reluctantly, the kids collected their belongings and shuffled in the sand toward the parking lot with their mother. Jotaro noticed how empty the beach was becoming as the storm clouds approached. Large, dark waves crashed upon the shore violently, and the strong winds nearly swept Jotaro’s hat from his head, prompting him to hold onto the brim.

“…”

This isn’t rational. Dio is dead, Jotaro thought. I thought that some of his surviving followers would come for me. Keeping Star Platinum out almost always would have caught their notice if any were trying to track me down. I haven’t made any efforts to hide. I could use a cigarette.

     Making sense of one’s sufferings is no easy task. Jotaro’s life had seemed so empty and pointless at times. His quest to save his mother breathed meaning into his life. Discovering he is a Joestar gave him a sense of purpose, but now he felt uncertain about what it all means since he returned home. Even with the strongest stand in the world, he could not keep his comrades alive. He would gladly trade his ability to stop time for the ability to travel back in time to make things right in his eyes. Though he and his companions were victims of circumstance, Jotaro regretted how much innocent blood was shed along their journey. He wished he could have helped Dio’s followers turn a new leaf instead of sending them to an extended hospital stay, if not something worse.

     Jotaro furrowed his brow as he watched a bolt of lightning strike the sea miles from the shore. It was yet another natural phenomenon that seemed ominous as if it was a warning from God not to carry on this line of thinking. His desire to change the course of destiny disgusted the Joestar. The thought of such a thing was too close to something Dio wanted. Perhaps life would lose meaning if a mere mortal asserted control over it.

     Star Platinum rested his large hand on Jotaro’s shoulder. The warm sensation of his stand’s protective hand interrupted Jotaro's deep thoughts. The man glanced up at his stand and read his eyes. There was no denying that Star Platinum possessed an intimate understanding of Jotaro. However, Jotaro still questioned the deepness of the mystical stand’s comprehension of the world and their relationship. Though they grew closer, Star Platinum’s silence magnified his mysterious nature. Jotaro was convinced of his free will, yet his uncertainties persisted. If only the stand could speak.

“Let’s head home.” Jotaro said as he held onto the brim of his cap.

“…”

     Jotaro and Star Platinum returned to the apartment. Star Platinum removed Jotaro’s drenched jacket, carefully hanging it on the rack by the front door as Jotaro kicked off his wet shoes. A loud clap of thunder shook the building, loud enough to leave the Joestar’s ears ringing. Jotaro flicked the light switch, discovering the power had gone out.

“Good grief.” Jotaro mumbled in the dark room as he removed his soaked hat.

“…”

     The afternoon was transforming into evening, with the remaining sunlight obscured by dark thunderclouds and torrential rain. The disabled air conditioning made the warm air indoors feel muggy. This added to Joestar’s discomfort, as the lingering feeling of something approaching made him uneasy.

I need to get out of these clothes, Jotaro thought as he walked to his bathroom.

     After a cold shower, he retired with Star Platinum to the bed. The weather was perfect for reading, but the mentally exhausted Joestar felt too restless to sit still. His eyes traveled to his stand as he welcomed a distraction from his draining thoughts. Star Platinum stared at him. Worry filled the stand’s eyes.

Jotaro sighed. “I’m fine.” Jotaro reassured Star Platinum.

“…”

     Star Platinum’s stoic expression remained. Jotaro suspected that his stand did not believe his words. The mighty stand’s piercing aquamarine eyes urged Jotaro to open up to him. A grin formed on Jotaro’s face.

“Good grief, I should know better to be honest with you by now.” Jotaro said as moved to his stand’s lap and placed his hands around Star Platinum’s head.

“…”

“I know you. You wouldn’t fake a smile to make me feel better.” Jotaro said as he moved closer to Star Platinum’s face.

“…”

     Jotaro closed his eyes, tilted his head, and pressed his lips against his stand’s lips. Reflexively, Star Platinum reached around Jotaro and pulled him closer as the two locked lips. Star Platinum’s eyes relaxed as he kissed his beloved user. Jotaro felt relief at the sensation of his stand’s large hands around him. Who knew the same hands that mercilessly pummeled several past foes could be trained to be so gentle?

     Jotaro opened his eyes as Star Platinum’s tongue begged for entrance into his mouth. He slightly parted his lips, allowing his stand to explore his mouth. Their eyes met, and Jotaro felt his heart flutter at the sight. Star Platinum’s eyes twinkled, conveying his happiness to be so close to his user. Their half-lidded appearance communicated his growing hunger. His large hands cupped Jotaro’s ass. Jotaro felt a jolt of excitement in his pants as his breathing became heavy.

     Jotaro parted his lips from Star Platinum’s. The stand studied him, appearing to be trying to ascertain his user’s needs. Jotaro knew precisely what he needed. He reached down to Star Platinum’s right hand. The stand obediently relinquished his grip on Jotaro’s body and allowed his user to guide his heavy hand. Jotaro inserted Star Platinum’s index finger into his mouth and teased it with his tongue before sucking it. A faint blush formed on Jotaro’s face as he felt Star Platinum’s growing erection pressing against him.

I need you, Jotaro thought as he introduced another finger into his mouth and sucked it on hungrily.

     Jotaro ground against Star Platinum’s lap. Though Jotaro’s sense that something wasn’t right persisted, his overwhelmed mind became fuzzy and intoxicated by his desire. The departure of the setting sun darkened the already unilluminated bedroom. Jotaro’s other senses sharpened as the darkness shrouded his vision.

     Star Platinum removed his fingers from his user’s mouth. He lifted Jotaro and laid him down on his back, positioning himself between his user’s muscular, lengthy legs. Star Platinum placed his hands beside Jotaro’s shoulders as he glanced down at him. Jotaro breathed deeply as he stared longingly at Star Platinum. Star Platinum gently caressed his user’s face with his hand, brushing his hot skin as his hand traveled to his neck and clavicle. The mystical stand’s large hand was broad enough to wrap around his user’s skull. The hot blood in his cheeks tinted Jotaro’s fair face.

You’re so incredible, Jotaro thought as he stared into his stand’s sensual eyes.

     Jotaro had been in many fights in his young life. He wasn’t one to back down or yield to another, but he felt possessed in these moments with Star Platinum to abandon his defenses. He felt like prey, but the feeling of being prey to Star Platinum aroused his libidinous imagination. He surrendered his whole self to his beloved stand, knowing that he was safe in doing so.

     Star Platinum yanked Jotaro’s pants off, revealing his erection. Jotaro removed Star Platinum’s loincloth, freeing his large member. Star Platinum lifted Jotaro’s tank top and teased his user’s nipples with his tongue and teeth. Jotaro let out breathy moans as Star Platinum hungrily suckled on his nipples. The stand occasionally glanced up at his user and grinned at the sight of a very aroused Jotaro. Star Platinum ground his erection against Jotaro’s, causing Jotaro to buck his hips in response to the pleasure. His sticky and slick pre-cum coated Star Platinum’s cock, increasing the pleasure as they rubbed together.

     Star Platinum’s hand traveled to Jotaro’s mouth again as he continued teasing his user’s nipples. Jotaro hungrily sucked the digits and licked them to lubricate them. Star Platinum introduced a finger into Jotaro’s tight hole, eliciting a moan from the man. He pushed the finger deeper past the borderline until it reached his knuckle.

“Fuck…” Jotaro breathed as a flash of lightning illuminated the room, followed by a roar of thunder.

    Star Platinum continued preparing Jotaro’s body as Jotaro’s numbed mind awakened with memories of their first summer together. The violent summer storm reminded the man of his previous apprehensiveness with his stand. He let out another loud moan as Star Platinum introduced another finger.

“Please…” Jotaro huffed.

Star Platinum looked into Jotaro’s eyes. “…”

“Put it in…” Jotaro begged as he spread his legs further apart.

“…”

     Star Platinum removed his fingers gently and grasped his cock, guiding it to Jotaro’s ready hole. Jotaro bit his lip as he felt his tight walls being stretched by Star Platinum. Star Platinum eased his cock deeper into Jotaro until he was balls deep inside him. He kissed and licked Jotaro’s neck as his user let out breathier moans. His hot tongue traveled to Jotaro’s ear as he pulled out before gently thrusting back into Jotaro. Jotaro felt a shock through his body. He felt so good, but something still felt wrong. The storm outside intensified as the wind and rain pounded against the window.

“Hnnh~!” Jotaro moaned as Star Platinum’s gentle thrusts intensified. 

     The darkness of the night advanced the duskiness of the bedroom. Jotaro could no longer see the silhouette of his stand, increasing the sensations of pleasure. His nails dug into Star Platinum’s muscular back as the stand plunged into him deeper and harder. The sound of their bodies clapping together and Jotaro’s moans rivaled the storm's noise.

     There were two audible knocks at the front door. The pair heard them but continued anyway. Jotaro felt disgruntled by the interruption.

That’s probably a neighbor asking for batteries or matches, Jotaro thought as he frowned.

“…”

     Star Platinum’s hands traveled under Jotaro and lifted him. Jotaro was startled by the suddenness of being picked up as he was unable to see anything. He wrapped his legs and arms around Star Platinum as the stand kept the two connected. Star Platinum planted his feet firmly on the floor before he lifted Jotaro slightly before roughly lowering him back down onto his cock, thrusting deeper inside him.

“Shit~!” Jotaro moaned.

It feels even deeper now, Jotaro thought as he clung to Star Platinum.

     Star Platinum pressed his lips against Jotaro’s. Jotaro parted his lips once again to wrap his tongue with Star Platinum’s tongue. Jotaro moaned as Star Platinum continued fucking him as he stood. Jotaro broke the kiss to catch his breath.

“It’s so good~!” Jotaro cried as he could feel himself getting close.

     Three loud knocks at the door echoed through the dark apartment. Jotaro gritted his teeth as he could feel Star Platinum’s cock rub his sweet spot. Another loud clap of thunder shook the building.

“HHHRRR…” Star Platinum growled as he kissed and licked Jotaro’s neck as he pounded his user.

“I’m cumming…” Jotaro groaned as he felt his heart flutter and his body quake.

     Star Platinum’s pace quickened as he mercilessly pounded Jotaro. His large hands squeezed Jotaro’s body as he grunted. He could feel Jotaro’s tight walls constricting around his cock, sending him over the edge.

     The stand and user came in unison. Jotaro’s warm cum shot out, coating Star Platinum’s bare chest and belly as the stand filled his ass. Jotaro panted into Star Platinum’s shoulder as his exhausted body clung to his stand. Star Platinum’s lips returned to Jotaro’s, kissing him longingly as the pair remained connected. The knocking at the door returned.

“Mmhmmm…” Jotaro moaned as his tongue danced with his stand’s tongue.

     Jotaro’s body flushed with a lovely shade of pink as his stand tenderly kissed him and made small gentle thrusts with his still-hard cock inside Jotaro. Jotaro’s fingertips swept his stand’s back as he felt a jolt in his cock. Star Platinum caressed the back of Jotaro’s head, running his fingers through Jotaro’s glossy hair. The knocks at the door transformed into desperate pounds.

“Good fucking grief…” Jotaro said after parting his lips from Star Platinum.

     Star Platinum removed himself from Jotaro and lowered the irritated man to his feet. He watched as Jotaro quickly slipped on his pants and reached for his still-damp hat. Jotaro felt his way around as he made his way to the door, where he could hear more knocking. He armed himself with his flashlight. The angry man unlocked the door and opened it forcefully, ready to chastise whoever was there for their intrusion on his evening. He shined his flashlight out onto the intruder. His heart sank to his stomach.

“Jotaro…” A sobbing woman cried.

“Electra.” Jotaro said, dumbfounded.

Electra sobbed. “I was afraid you had moved. I’m so relieved I found you.”

“Come in.” Jotaro said as he opened the door wider.

Electra entered. Though it was too dark to see into the apartment, she was glancing around. She sniffled and shivered as she scanned the dark apartment.

“The power has been out for a while,” Jotaro said. “I would make you some tea if I could.”

“Some water would be fine.” Electra said.

“I’ll get you some dry clothes.” Jotaro said as he returned to his bedroom with his flashlight.

     Star Platinum glanced at Electra curiously. She watched Jotaro go into his room, still scanning her surroundings suspiciously and unaware of the mystical stand in the room with her. She shivered, and she wiped her tears with her damp sleeve.

     Once Electra was warm and dry in Jotaro’s oversized clothing, she joined Jotaro in his bedroom. Jotaro lit a candle to bring some light into the room. He sat on the edge of his messy bed and was still sweaty. He was unaware of the musky aroma filling the room.

     Electra stood before Jotaro, looking unsure. He stared at her, studying her worried and tense eyes. She appeared to have something important to say but was hesitant to divulge.

“Tell me what’s going on. Why are you here?” Jotaro asked.

“I know I said I wasn’t coming back. I didn’t think I would ever see you again, b-but…” Electra stuttered as her eyes filled with tears. “I’m pregnant.”

     Jotaro froze. Electra glanced away from him, looking ashamed. She sighed.

“I haven’t told my parents yet. I was so scared when I found out. I knew I needed to tell you.” Electra explained. “I came here as soon as I could.”

“By yourself?” Jotaro asked.

Electra nodded. “I’m scared. I don’t know what to do.” She said as tears flowed down her face.

“Will you marry me?” Jotaro asked.

     Electra froze. She stared at Jotaro, numb by what she just thought she heard.

“W-what?” Her voice cracked.

“Marry me.” Jotaro said as he took her hand into his.

“I-I…” Electra stuttered, her eyes still watery. “Do you mean it?”

“Of course I do.” Jotaro stated.

     Electra put her hand on Jotaro’s shoulder and pressed her lips to his. He pulled her closer to him. His hands explored her familiar body. His hand brushed across her gravid stomach. The baby bump was small but noticeably firm.  

“…”

     Star Platinum stared at the two, watching in silence. Feeling a mixture of emotions, the stand stood, expressionless and mysterious. The power suddenly returned, illuminating the dark candle-lit room. The kissing pair did not react to the lights coming back on. 

Chapter Text

     Jotaro sighed as he dialed his phone. He reclined in his seat as he listened to the dial tone. He waited anxiously for the recipient to pick up the phone on the other line. Finally, the call broke through.

“Joseph Joestar.” The older man answered after clearing his throat.

“Hey, old man.” Jotaro greeted.

“Jotaro! It’s good to hear your voice. How have you been? Is everything alright?” Joseph asked.

“I’m fine. How is grandma?” Jotaro asked.

“Suzie is doing well. We were just in the middle of planning a trip to Florida.” Joseph explained.

“That’s funny. I’m going to be headed there soon, too.” Jotaro said.

“Really? Is it for school or something?” Joseph asked.

“No. I’m meeting my fiancé’s family there. By the way, you’re going to be a great-grandfather.” Jotaro said plainly.

“…”

“Hey, old man, did you hear me?” Jotaro asked.

     Jotaro heard Joseph’s steel prosthetic fist slam on a table.

“OH MY GOD!” Joseph screeched. “Are you kidding me!?”

“No.” Jotaro responded, irritated.

“You Japanese bastards can’t just leave the American women alone, can you!?” Joseph hollered.

Ignorant old bastard, Jotaro thought.

“Relax.” Jotaro commanded. “I intend to move to America and marry her there.”

“Oh.” Joseph said, relaxing and reclining back to his chair. “That changes things…” he said, embarrassed. “I was going down to Florida to manage some properties there. Let me help you find a good home.”

“I appreciate it.” Jotaro responded.

“So, what happened? Was she in Japan when you both met?” Joseph asked.

“Yeah. I’ll give you the details another time. Right now, I have a lot on my plate making arrangements to continue college in America.” Jotaro explained.

“Of course. Although have you met her family yet?” Joseph asked.

“No.” Jotaro replied.

“Hey, I’m here to help you. I’m sure her family is understandably pissed, so maybe I should come along to help break the ice when you go to meet them.” Joseph said.

“That’s not necessary.” Jotaro said.

“Oh, but I insist!” Joseph urged. “If they like me, then they’ll grow to like you too.”

“Good grief.” Jotaro sighed as he slumped further into the couch. “Fine.”

“Great! I’ll call you when I land in Florida in two days. Take care and give Holy my regards.” Joseph said happily. “And Jotaro, if you’re looking for work, let me know, and I can put you in touch with someone from the Speedwagon Foundation. They’re doing more research on stands, and I think you would be a good fit.”

“I’m about to become a father. Those days of stand battles and ancient mysteries are over for me now.” Jotaro responded.

“I understand. Let me know if you change your mind.” Joseph said warmly.

“Will do. Goodbye.” Jotaro said as he placed the phone down on the receiver.

     Jotaro sighed and placed his head in his hands. His eyes felt heavy with his lack of sleep. Though Electra had returned home from Japan days ago, Jotaro felt a constant unease even in solitude. He felt the departure of the small but developing Joestar in his soul. The distance from his own flesh and blood made him tense.

     Star Platinum sat beside Jotaro, looking anxious at the man. It pained Jotaro to see his beloved stand like this. He cursed himself for his actions, giving into his flesh’s desires so easily. He was experiencing the consequences of the deed, and it frightened him what would become of his relationship with Star Platinum. He pushed his thoughts to the back of his mind and focused on preparing for his new life in America.

  Weeks later, in Florida, Jotaro and Electra approached the door to her family’s house. A large dog began barking behind the door and growling ferociously. Electra smiled.

“Remember what I told you, Poco is protective, but he’s a good dog. If he accepts you, then everything will be well.” Electra instructed.

“Alright.” Jotaro nodded.

     A large man opened the door. He wore a frown on his stern face as he looked up and down at Jotaro. Poco, the giant German Shephard, pushed past him and growled at Jotaro, barring his dagger-like fangs at him.

“Hey, Dad!” Electra exclaimed to her father.

“Easy.” Jotaro said to the dog.

     Poco sniffed Jotaro’s shoes and studied the tall man. The canine’s dark brown eyes were filled with intelligence. The sight reminded the Joestar of Iggy. The ferocious dog relaxed his large body as his tail began to wag. Poco sat down in front of Jotaro and began to pant happily.

“Aww, he likes you!” Electra smiled. “Good boy, Poco!”

     Jotaro bent down and gently patted the dog’s head. The stern, large man at the door relaxed his shoulders, and his expression softened. All the tension from the atmosphere dissipated in an instant.

“How rude of me! Please, come in before the mosquitos bite.” The man said as he stepped away from the doorway.

“Thank you.” Jotaro said as he stepped in and began removing his shoes.

“Oh, there’s no need for that, but do whatever feels comfortable.” Electra said to Jotaro.

“Jotaro, it is nice to meet you. I’m Lorenzo Russo. Call me Lorenzo.” The man said after closing the door.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Jotaro said as he shook Lorenzo’s hand.

“What happened to Joseph?” Lorenzo asked.

“He should be here soon.” Jotaro replied.

     There was a knock on the door. Poco barked and growled, turning ferocious once again. Lorenzo answered the door, opening it wide to reveal Joseph Joestar and Suzie Q. Their chauffeur tipped his hat at Lorenzo before driving the luxury car down the residential street.

I wasn’t expecting both of them, Jotaro thought as tension in his forehead began to form.

“Hello! I’m Joseph Joestar, and this is my wife, Suzie Q.” Joseph said as he stepped forward, reaching out for a handshake, ignoring the irritated dog.

     Poco responded by biting down on Joseph’s dangling left metal hand, causing him to shriek.

“Oh my God!” Joseph shouted. “Get down, Cujo!” he said, striking the growling dog on the head with his free hand.

Good grief, Jotaro thought as he frowned.

     Lorenzo’s tense expression and frown returned.

“Joseph, calm down! You’re scaring the poor thing.” Suzie Q said, reaching down to pet the dog. “It’s okay…” she cooed as she soothed the dog.

     Poco relaxed and released the steel hand from his maw. Joseph retracted his hand and held it to his body, fearful of what the dog would do next. Poco’s tail began wagging as he focused on Suzie Q.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Joestar!” Lorenzo smiled at her, ignoring Joseph, who was still rattled from the dog bite.

“Altrettanto.” Suzie Q spoke in Italian.

     Lorenzo’s charmed smile grew as he spoke to her in Italian, forgetting Jotaro and Joseph after closing the door. Joseph sighed as he warily stepped around the dog toward Jotaro and Electra.

“Ah, you must be Electra. I’m so pleased to meet you.” He smiled at her.

“Thank you for coming, Mr. Joestar. I’m so happy to meet Jotaro’s family. It’s a shame his parents couldn’t be here.” Electra said with a sad smile.

“You’ll meet them in time. I have a feeling you will love my daughter. She made off with some Japanese guy too.” Joseph chuckled.

Electra laughed awkwardly. “My little brother and my mom are in the dining room. Dinner should be ready soon.” She said, inviting them inside and starting to look nervous.

     Electra’s younger brother sat at the table with a Game Boy in his hands. The 8-bit crushed music was set to total volume, irritating Jotaro, who sat beside him. Electra’s mother was quite petite compared to her father. Though small and frail, she looked like a boxer waiting to start the next round. Electra quietly sat beside Jotaro, nudging her food anxiously with her fork and avoiding eye contact with her family.

“So, I heard you two found a house.” Mrs. Russo said, breaking the awkward silence mid-dinner at the table as she glanced at Jotaro and Electra.

“Yeah, it’s a beautiful property.” Joseph chimed. “A three-bedroom home built on full acre, and the best schools in the district.”

“Ah, only three bedrooms? I guess it was the best you could do on such short notice. Usually, such things take time and careful consideration, but these two don’t seem the best at making adult decisions.” Mrs. Russo said as she glared at Jotaro and Electra. She chuckled. “But on the other hand, I am quite excited to be a grandparent.” She admitted.

What a bitch, Jotaro thought before he glanced at Electra, who looked like she wanted to be anywhere else but here.

Joseph chuckled. “I was quite surprised as well! To think I lived long enough to be a great-grandparent.” He said warmly, trying to shrug off the tension Mrs. Russo was creating.

“It’s quite amazing how quickly they grow! I remember holding Jotaro when he was only a week old.” Suzie Q beamed. “He was the cutest little thing. I never imagined he would grow so big and handsome!”

“I remember when Electra and Luca were small like it was just yesterday.” Mrs. Russo said as her eyes studied her children across the table.

     Luca kept his eyes busy on his screen, barely touching his food. The music from his game and the buttons being mashed in his handheld console were the only sounds he made as he disassociated from the conversation. Electra sat almost uncomfortably close to Jotaro, giving him the sense that she was keeping him close for support.

“It makes me sad seeing their baby photos. In those days, I hoped they would make something of themselves. And now, my son wastes his time playing video games while Electra got herself a worthless degree.” Mrs. Russo said.

“That’s a bit harsh, but I suppose marine biology is a limited field for work.” Joseph agreed. “Hey Luca, no need to be shy around us. We’re all open books here, even Jotaro. What do you want to do with your life?”

Luca paused his game and finally tore his eyes from the screen. “I want to be a professional comic book artist.” He spoke in his timid voice.

“Really?” Joseph asked, suddenly quite interested. “I would love to see some of your work. I love comic books! Which is your favorite?”

“Superman.” Luca replied.

“Me too!” Joseph smiled. “You have excellent taste.”

“Don’t encourage him. Comics video games and all that geeky stuff are all a waste of time. Only losers indulge themselves in such stupid hobbies.” Mrs. Russo said.

“And what do you mean by that?” Joseph said, gritting his teeth.

     Poco began growling as he approached Joseph, disliking his argumentative tone toward his owner. Lorenzo scowled at the Joestar. Like a storm at sea, Jotaro sensed the already choppy waters were turning into monster waves. His head throbbed.

“Easy, dear.” Suzie Q said while glancing at Joseph. “Don’t take it personally.”

“I said what I meant.” Mrs. Russo said before taking a sip of her wine. “Lorenzo was a police officer for over twenty years, and I worked as a nurse. These kids don’t understand hard work and sacrifice. They’ll soon face the consequences of their actions from chasing silly pipe dreams and meeting strange men in foreign countries during school trips.” She huffed. “Utterly ridiculous.”

     Luca returned to his game, sensing an argument was coming. Electra’s eyes watered up as she felt deep shame fill her. Jotaro scowled as he took Electra’s hand and gently squeezed it. She responded by gripping his large hand as she fought tears.

“Relax. You’re upsetting your daughter.” Jotaro said, the tension in his head evolving into a painful headache.

“Relax!?” Mrs. Russo growled. “You have a lot of nerve telling me what to do in my house.”

“For a nurse, you have a shocking lack of empathy. And for your own children, no less!” Joseph stated. “What the hell is your problem?”

Here we go… Jotaro thought as he rolled his eyes.

     Poco growled and showed his fangs to the Joestar.

“I think we all need to take a deep breath.” Suzie Q said, trying to diffuse the situation. “Let’s not argue during our first meeting.” She said as Poco’s growls drowned out her words.

“I should’ve known something was off, this dog is straight out of Pet Sematary!” Joseph said as he grasped his fork tightly, as if ready to use it in self-defense.

“Va fangool!” Lorenzo yelled at Joseph, his deep, bassy voice rattling everyone at the table.

     Suzie Q had enough. She began yelling at Lorenzo in Italian. The two argued loudly, speaking with their hands aggressively and brows furrowed in anger. Poco began barking viciously like a guard dog on high alert.

“See all the trouble you’ve caused?” Mrs. Russo said to Electra.

“Lady, you are out of your mind!” Joseph argued with her.

Good fucking grief, Jotaro thought.

     Electra released Jotaro’s hand and cupped her face, sobbing as the chaos continued at the table. Jotaro felt his jaw tense and his head pound as the overwhelming racket of the two couples arguing along with Poco’s barks, Electra’s loud sobs, and Luca’s video game pelted him. Each second of the noise was like a blunt arrow striking Jotaro’s head. The disgruntled man could no longer hear his thoughts.

     Jotaro could only understand snippets of their arguments. He could hear his grandmother and soon-to-be father-in-law arguing belligerently in Italian, which was meaningless to him since he could not understand. He could hear Mrs. Russo hurling insults at Joseph, Electra and himself. Poco’s barks became more vicious as the couples argued even louder to combat the noise from the canine. Electra was hunched over in her seat, sobbing as she concealed her face. Luca’s game emitted a noisy barrage of sound effects as he was engaged in an 8-bit battle. Jotaro tightened his fist.

“FOR FUCKS SAKE. SHUT UP, ALL OF YOU!” Jotaro yelled.

     Silence fell among the table. Everyone except Luca stared at Jotaro, who sat tensed in his seat and his brows furrowed. Jotaro turned to Luca, whose GameBoy was the only remaining nuisance. He wanted to snatch it from his hands and throw it against the wall. Luca sat, unaware of the looming threat beside him.

     The arguments continued. Poco barked and growled at Joseph as the Joestar pointed a finger at Mrs. Russo while calling her a name. Mrs. Russo’s eyes were full of fury as she belligerently argued with the Joestar. Lorenzo appeared to be foaming at the mouth and red in the face as he continued arguing with Suzie Q, who seemed to be entertained by how angry he was getting. Electra’s sobs returned and echoed through the household. The sound effects and music from the video game continued to fill the chaotic scene.

     Jotaro stood up from his seat, his chair falling behind him. Joseph looked up and noticed his grandson rising suddenly. Star Platinum appeared behind Jotaro. Joseph’s eyes widened in shock as he watched the face of his grandson and his stand contort into rage.

“I SAID SHUT UP!!!” Jotaro bellowed as he slammed his curled fists downward.

“OOORRRAAA!!!” Star Platinum roared as he slammed his mighty fists down with Jotaro.

“Hermit Purple!” Joseph called as he summoned his stand.

     Jotaro’s and Star Platinum’s fists collided with the table, smashing the aged wooden surface and snapping through the thickness easily like it was a twig. Hermit Purple’s thorned vines reached under the table, preventing it from falling apart and crushing the knees of those sitting there. Everyone backed away and stood up suddenly. Joseph released his stand, letting the broken table fall apart and sending the China, cutlery, and glasses to crash beneath the tile floor. Poco jumped on the opportunity for table scraps, wagging his rump as he devoured a dinner roll. Everyone stood silent in shock, even Jotaro as he studied Star Platinum.

Shit, I must’ve summoned him without thinking, Jotaro thought.

“Whoa.” Luca said with amazement, believing it was Jotaro’s raw strength alone that broke the thick table.

     Electra turned and ran to a room down the hallway. Jotaro turned away from the scene and pursued her. She entered her old childhood bedroom in the house and slammed the door in Jotaro’s face.

“Electra.” Jotaro called as he reached for the knob.

     He heard the lock on the door click before he had the chance to turn it.

“Go away! Leave me alone!” Electra sobbed behind the door.

     Jotaro sighed. He felt a large hand on his shoulder. He turned wildly, expecting Lorenzo to sucker-punch him. Instead, he was face to face with Star Platinum.

“It’s just you.” Jotaro sighed again, this time in relief. “Let’s go.” He said as he returned to the front of the house.

     Electra’s parents still stood in shock in the dining room. Joseph and Suzie Q appeared to have already departed. Luca was absent from the room. Jotaro and Star Platinum ignored the couple as they exited the house through the front door. Luca sat on a chair on the front porch with a lit cigarette in his hand. Jotaro walked past him and toward the sidewalk outside where Joseph and Suzie Q stood.

“Oh, Jotaro. I’m so sorry about tonight.” Suzie Q said. “Is Electra alright?”

“She needs some time alone.” Jotaro explained.

“The poor dear. I guess it’s true what they say: a girl’s first bully is her mother.” Suzie Q said as she shook her head.

“Jotaro!” Joseph yelled.

“What?” Jotaro asked, unamused.

“What in the hell were you thinking, summoning Star Platinum like that!” Joseph said. “That was reckless! Who knows what would have happened if I didn’t use Hermit Purple in time to catch the table!” he argued aggressively, pressing his index finger against Jotaro’s chest.

“Tch. Calm down, old man. Nobody was hurt.” Jotaro said.

“How can you be so nonchalant about this!” Joseph said, throwing his hands up. “Do you realize how serious this is?”

“Joseph, calm down. Your blood pressure is already high.” Suzie Q said worriedly.

“You know, now that I think about it, I didn’t hear you call Star Platinum. It just appeared when you got angry.” Joseph said.

“Give me a break. You’re too worked up.” Jotaro said while crossing his arms.

Joseph sighed. “Listen, Jotaro. I think it’s best if you allow Suzie and I to adopt your baby.”

“What!?” Jotaro asked. “Why?”

“I know Star Platinum is sentient, but I wasn’t aware it could appear without you summoning it. Jotaro, it’s too dangerous to keep around a child.” Joseph explained.

“It was my fault he came out. I got too angry.” Jotaro argued.

“Listen Jotaro, I still think it’s too dangerous to raise a child with a stand like Star Platinum around. It’s too unpredictable and insanely strong.” Joseph argued, glancing at Star Platinum with his brows furrowed. “And why are you defending it so much? Doesn’t your fiancé and child mean more to you?”

     Jotaro remembered Star Platinum getting too rough and bruising his pale body in past instances during lovemaking. He recalled the time Star Platinum bit into his shoulder, causing him to bleed when they were in the shower together. He remembered all the times he had to remind the strong stand to be gentle. He recalled his fear as the stand snatched an unsuspecting pigeon. Jotaro’s face turned pale.

“A lot has happened tonight. Let’s all call it a day.” Suzie Q said.

“Right. But Jotaro, please consider my offer.” Joseph said. “Maybe even Holy would be interested. Anything is better than my great-grandchild being raised by Godzilla in there.” Joseph said as he shook his head, referring to Electra’s family.    

     Jotaro put his hands in his pockets as he turned away from his grandparents. Star Platinum followed, gilding above the pavement as Jotaro walked. Jotaro sighed.

“Hey! Where are you going?” Joseph called.

“For a walk.” Jotaro replied, his back still turned and not breaking his pace.

“Leave him be. He needs some time to process things.” Suzie Q said as she stopped Joseph from following Jotaro.

     Jotaro walked down the street, the large streetlights illuminating his way. He began to hear the soft crashing of the waves nearby. He approached the tiny rocky shore and noticed a lone bench overlooking the ocean. He sat on one side and gestured for Star Platinum to sit beside him.

“Good grief. What a shit show.” Jotaro grumbled as he reclined, his head still throbbing.

“…”

     Star Platinum leaned in, removing Jotaro’s hat slightly to access his forehead. He softly kissed the man’s forehead. Jotaro looked surprised.

“What are you apologizing for?” Jotaro asked.

“…”

     Jotaro studied Star Platinum, whose eyes were full of guilt, and his lips pouted. It reminded Jotaro of the time Star Platinum accidentally broke his picture frame. The mighty stand’s expression appeared like a remorseful child.                

“It was all my fault.” Jotaro said. “I need to control myself, especially since I will soon be a father.”

“…”

“Speaking of…” Jotaro said with pain in his chest. “Do you remember that day in the park, when we saw that couple get engaged?”

“…!” Star Platinum smiled as he remembered that day. His smile faded as he remembered how it ended.

“Electra and I will soon be married. We are having a child together.” Jotaro explained.

“…”

     Star Platinum smiled. His expression caught Jotaro by surprise. Jotaro turned away, focusing on a boat far away in the dark sea, its flashing lights a welcome distraction from the growing pain in his heart.

“I’m glad you’re happy about it, but Grandpa made a valid point.” Jotaro said. “I’m going to be a father, and it will be my duty to protect my child. I will spend my days working and my nights with my wife. I’m afraid that…” Jotaro said with a lump growing in his throat. “I won’t have time for you. And that maybe something bad will happen if I keep you around.”

“…!”

“I can’t imagine life without you, but soon I will find out what that will be like. You can't come out no matter how angry or upset I get. Got it?” Jotaro asked.

“……….”

     Star Platinum’s eyes widened in shock. Hurt and betrayal filled him. He stared at Jotaro wildly, his fists curling. He felt a strong sinking feeling of impending doom, like an inexperienced swimmer caught in a fierce rip tide. Jotaro shared the same awful feeling.

“Star Platinum… I’m sorry…” Jotaro said, averting his gaze with the brim of his hat.

     Star Platinum grabbed Jotaro’s shoulders and forced him to his feet. Jotaro’s eyes revealed fear in the grip of the mighty stand. He felt so small looking up at his stand. He felt his heart sink further into the pit of his stomach as tears flowed from his stand’s face. Star Platinum showed his teeth.

“J-… JH-” Star Platinum strained to speak.

     Jotaro felt pain in his throat. It felt like his vocal cords were being roughly manipulated. The pressure on his throat made him wince.

“J-JHO… JO-”

     The pain in Jotaro’s throat intensified. He felt Star Platinum’s grip strength on his shoulders, making them ache under the growing pressure. His heart was pounding.

“JO- JHO…”

“Y-you’re *huff* hurting me.” Jotaro said hoarsely, feeling like he was being strangled.

     Star Platinum froze. He released Jotaro and turned away from him. He roughly ran his fingers down his perfectly symmetrical face, looking frightened and remorseful. He noticed the empty bench and curled his fists.

“ORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORA!!!” Star Platinum bellowed as he turned the metal bench into scrap from the power of his blows.

     Jotaro watched in horror as his stand was in a frenzy. So many emotions flowed through them both. It pained Jotaro worse than he ever expected. He wanted to dismiss his stand but was still frozen in his tracks.

     Star Platinum’s fierce punches slowed to a stop. He dropped to his knees and hands, facing away from Jotaro. Jotaro kneeled, placing his hand on Star Platinum’s bare back. Star Platinum turned his head to Jotaro, revealing his sad aquamarine eyes as sparkly tears flowed down his face. Jotaro’s eyes felt heavy. Star Platinum turned away before fading away softly. All that remained was Jotaro’s lone shadow and the heap that was once a bench.

     Jotaro stood and wiped his watery eyes. He adjusted his hat before placing his hands in his pockets. He let out a deep sigh and turned back to the sea. The nearby city’s lights dulled the night’s stars. His heart felt heavy as it beat in his chest. He heard a distant car alarm in the neighborhood, reminding him of the other disaster he had experienced earlier.

     After walking alone in the dark, he returned to the front porch of his future in-law’s house. Luca sat out on the porch still, smoking a fresh cigarette. He noticed Jotaro returned.

“I’m sorry about my parents.” Luca offered an apology.

“It’s not your fault.” Jotaro said, his voice hoarse. “Is it alright if I go in to check on her?”

“Go ahead. Mom and Dad went on a drive to clear their heads, so the house is empty now.” Luca explained.

“Thank God.” Jotaro said flatly as he reached for the door to go inside.

“Jotaro.” Luca said.

“What?” Jotaro responded.

“Has anyone ever told you that you look like Clint Eastwood?” Luca asked. “In his younger days, of course.”

“Good grief…” Jotaro muttered as he stepped into the house.

     Jotaro walked past the messy dining room. Poco slept soundly in a corner, unbothered by Jotaro’s sudden intrusion. He approached Electra’s old bedroom and knocked on the door gently. Electra answered it. She looked exhausted, and her eyes were puffy from crying.

“I’m sorry.” She apologized.

“Don’t be,” Jotaro said as he embraced her. “I’m the one who is sorry.”

“What happened to your voice?” Electra asked, concerned.

“I strained it when I yelled.” Jotaro lied.

“I don’t want to stay here.” Electra said, looking around nervously.

“Let’s go.” Jotaro said as he took her hand gently into his. “It’s not good for you to stay here.”

     Electra’s smile returned. She wiped her eyes as she walked with Jotaro. They left in her car, driving to Jotaro’s hotel room in downtown St. Petersburg. The two sat out on the hotel balcony, enjoying the quiet scene.

Jotaro cleared his aching throat. “So, have you thought about any names?” Jotaro asked, trying to ease the tension.

“I have thought of a few.” Electra responded. “What do you think of Irene?”

“What makes you think it’s a girl?” Jotaro asked.

“Just a feeling I have.” Electra shrugged with a smile. “I can’t explain it. I feel like it is a girl.”

“What other names have you thought about?” Jotaro asked.

“Don’t like Irene, huh?” Electra teased. “That’s fine. I have a few more. How about Christine? Or maybe, Jolyne…”

“I like Jolyne.” Jotaro said.

“You do?” Electra beamed.

     Electra leaned against Jotaro. Jotaro tenderly wrapped his arms around her, a welcome distraction from his heartbreak. Her hand traveled to his shoulder, brushing over his birthmark.

“I hope she inherits your cute birthmark too.” Electra said sweetly.

I hope she doesn’t, Jotaro thought as he gazed at the dark ocean.

     The bright full moon was the only light reflecting off the sea's surface. The unnatural light of the city polluted the sky, obscuring the thousands of stars above. The moon stood alone, an omen to the young Joestar’s future.

Chapter Text

     Jotaro and Kakyoin trudged through the golden Arabian sands. Kakyoin struggled as they ascended a tall dune against the strong winds that pelted them with sand. The Joestar’s long legs proved superior in this type of terrain.

“Star Platinum.” Jotaro summoned his stand.

     Using Star Platinum’s exceptional vision, Jotaro scanned the desert, searching for any sign of movement. Kakyoin cleared his eyes of sand and glanced down, noticing a quickly vanishing trail of prints left behind by a giant scorpion. He sighed as he adjusted the white scarf covering his head.

“Any sign of them?” Kakyoin asked as he licked his dry lips.

“No.” Jotaro responded as he placed his sunburnt hands back in his pockets.

“Letting Polnareff carry our water supply on his camel was a bad idea.” Kakyoin said as he wiped the sweat from his brow. “But, as long as we continue Northwest, we’re bound to run into him and Mr. Joestar.”

“Right. Stay alert; an enemy stand user can attack us anytime.” Jotaro said as he continued down the dune, his gait unchanging despite the heat of the sun beating down on him in his black coat.

     Kakyoin watched Jotaro effortlessly travel down the dune in his usual confident gait. Star Platinum turned to Kakyoin and glanced at him before disappearing. Though Kakyoin did not want to slow the Joestar down, his legs felt heavy as he stepped down the dune, fighting to maintain his balance as the wind picked up. The sound of Jotaro’s gold chain on his coat guided the redhead as he shut his lids, protecting his lavender eyes from the blowing sand.

     Kakyoin and Jotaro were on high alert. Their group was previously attacked by a stand user who deceived them with the heat of his sun stand. With two of their camels succumbing to the artificial sun’s heat, their travel time was prolonged. It wasn’t out of the possibility that a stand user could create a sandstorm to separate the group, allowing them to take each Stardust Crusader out individually. Their journey became even more dangerous after losing Avdol from the group due to his extensive head injury from Hol Horse. Jotaro and Kakyoin worried for the safety of Joseph Joestar and Polnareff. 

     Jotaro glanced at Kakyoin, who was noticeably walking slower as time passed. Jotaro couldn’t blame him for slowing down. His body was exhausted, and each cell was crying out for water. To their luck, the sandstorm died down. However, the hot sun continued to beat down on the Japanese students.

     Kakyoin maintained his usual serious and flat expression, but his expressive lavender eyes betrayed him. Jotaro studied him carefully, trying to understand what could be wrong. So much had happened in the previous weeks since they left Japan. Jotaro was grateful Kakyoin decided to join him on his quest to save his mother’s life, but he worried for Kakyoin since their last conversation.

     He imagined Kakyoin’s parents had spent the first few days of his disappearance hopeful of their son’s return. He couldn’t imagine the dread they felt since a month had passed with no sign of their missing son. Kakyoin, like Jotaro, was an only child. The loss of a child was already devastating, but the loss of one’s only child would be catastrophic. Their group had seemed unstoppable after the numerous challenges they faced, but losing Avdol had been a blow to their morale. The possibility of death went from being an afterthought to a brutal reality. 

“Are you alright?” Jotaro asked as he slowed his pace.

“I’m fine, just dehydrated.” Kakyoin responded, licking his dry lips once more.

     The pair continued in silence through the windy sands. Kakyoin’s legs became heavier as time passed. He was grateful when Jotaro stopped to search their surroundings once more. Star Platinum scanned the desert as Jotaro glanced around for any sign of his comrades or their destination. Jotaro glanced at Kakyoin, whose eyes were filled with anxiety and exhaustion. His face was flushed from the heat. Kakyoin’s eyes met his gaze.

“Something on your mind?” Kakyoin asked.

“It looks like you’re getting a sunburn.” Jotaro replied.

Kakyoin sighed. “Damn it. I thought I had built a good base tan back in Singapore.” He said as he examined his hands and frowned.

“With your school uniform on?” Jotaro asked, not noticing a grin forming as he imagined Kakyoin relaxing by a pool in his uniform.

“Yeah, why not?” Kakyoin replied. "You did the same back on the boat."

     Kakyoin noticed Jotaro’s grin before it vanished. Jotaro showed his emotions sparingly, but anything resembling a smile was the rarest sight. Kakyoin smiled.

“What town did you move from? Usually, green uniforms are for middle school and freshmen students.” Jotaro asked as he scanned their surroundings.

“Oh.” Kakyoin said, surprised. “You’re correct. I was supposed to wear a black one like the one you’re currently wearing, but it doesn’t suit me.”

“What do you mean?” Jotaro asked.

“Green is not only my favorite color but also my best color. Don’t you think so?” Kakyoin asked playfully.

     Jotaro’s eyes scanned Kakyoin. His green school uniform was quite tight, fitting around his muscular yet slender figure. His shock of bright red hair contrasted his pale tone and green clothing. His long locks of hair perfectly framed his handsome yet effeminate face. His usual sad, lavender eyes were fixed on Jotaro. His flashy red orb earrings swung as he walked. The motion of the cherry-like earrings was like a hypnotist’s watch to Jotaro.

     A silence this long as one is being scrutinized would make anyone uncomfortable, but Kakyoin was different. He seemed unbothered, or rather, he knew everyone had different tastes. And yet, he was interested in the Joestar’s opinion. To Jotaro, Kakyoin was quite a paradoxical character. Though Kakyoin was quite formal and sharp-witted, he was often appallingly blunt. His acts of kindness contrasted with his coldness, and his femininity became scarce when the situation called for action. His eccentricities at times made the young man even more interesting. Kakyoin was quite intelligent and more self-aware than your average person, yet he still did what he pleased, even when his behaviors seemed off-putting to others. His affinity for cherries and his flamboyant strut were the few eccentric behaviors that Jotaro had grown to love. Jotaro couldn’t help but fantasize about what Kakyoin could do with his mouth.

“It does suit you.” Jotaro said as he turned away and placed his hands back in his pockets.

“Thanks.” Kakyoin said cooly, knowing that the young Joestar usually does not hand out compliments.

     The pair continued forward. Kakyoin stumbled over a rock in his path. Jotaro’s quick reflexes allowed him to catch Kakyoin midway through his fall. Kakyoin looked up at Jotaro, his eyes wide with surprise. He gazed into Jotaro’s bluish-green masculine eyes. His dark, long lashes framed his intense gaze. His skin also appeared quite flushed.

“Are you alright?” Jotaro asked, concerned for his dear friend.

“Uh- I’m fine.” Kakyoin said as Jotaro released him.

“…”

     The pair stood in awkward silence as they looked at each other. Jotaro felt his heart skip a beat. Kakyoin’s pride was injured, and yet, he held no resentment. Simultaneously, the two looked away from one another, turning to look across the vast terrain for signs of their missing teammates or civilization. They continued walking.

“Jotaro. Something about you seems different.” Kakyoin said.

“What do you mean?” Jotaro asked.

Kakyoin shrugged. “Maybe I’m wrong, but you seem light on your feet compared to when we started our journey. Could it be that…” Kakyoin thought aloud, thinking over his hypothesis. “You found something you love?”

“What?” Jotaro asked, surprised.

Damn it, he’s onto me… Jotaro thought. This might be my chance…

“It’s amazing what discovering a passion can do to a person. For me, it’s art that keeps me going.” Kakyoin explained.

“Oh, I see.” Jotaro said, realizing what his companion meant. “I like books about planes and ships. Being on those ships on our way to Singapore had got me thinking…”

“Do you want to be a sea captain?” Kakyoin asked.

“No, but I felt like I belonged out at sea. I want to know more about it.” Jotaro said. “Maybe I’ll even study it when we return home.” He said as he stepped over more rocks scattered across the dry terrain. “Have you thought about going to an art school?”

“Good heavens, no.” Kakyoin said, surprising Jotaro.

“But you said…” Jotaro said, confused.

“Just because one loves something doesn’t mean they must master it.” Kakyoin said. “Painting makes me feel at ease. If I took it seriously, it would drive me mad. There wouldn’t be any satisfaction in that.” He explained. “When you find something you love, it makes life worth living. Whatever it is, you must never let it go, or you will suffer for it.”

“I see.” Jotaro said, considering Kakyoin’s words. “But didn’t you say that strength is the ability to let something go?”

“I also said strength is knowing when to hold on to something. Whether that is a thing or a person you love, it’s foolish to let it go if it’s one of the reasons you bother getting up every morning. You won’t be left with much purpose if you keep letting things slip away.” Kakyoin explained. “Furthermore, -ARGH!” Kakyoin grunted as he nearly collapsed, clutching his leg as he gritted his teeth.

“Kakyoin! What happened?” Jotaro asked, kneeling to his fallen companion.

“My leg is cramping so badly…” Kakyoin muttered as he held his aching calf muscle. “We need water…”

“Damn it…” Jotaro said through gritted teeth, frustrated at their situation. “Star Platinum!” he summoned his stand.

     Star Platinum appeared, and his intense aquamarine eyes were fixed on Kakyoin. Kakyoin glanced at the purple stand, meeting the mighty stand’s gaze. His shiny headpiece glinted in the sunlight as he towered above the injured stand user.

“Hey, look for Polnareff and Grandpa.” Jotaro ordered with urgency in his voice.

“…”

     Star Platinum obeyed, turning away from Kakyoin and scanning the horizon. Kakyoin’s eyes remained fixed on the stand. Jotaro noticed Kakyoin’s sudden interest in Star Platinum.

“Are you alright, Jotaro?” Kakyoin asked.

“I’m fine.” Jotaro said as he removed his hat and wiped the sand from his dry face.

“It almost appeared that Star Platinum was acting alone for a moment there.” Kakyoin noted.

“I think the heat is getting to your head.” Jotaro muttered, his voice hoarse from the dryness.

“Hey, Star Platinum.” Kakyoin beckoned.

     Star Platinum gave up his search and turned to Kakyoin, his intense gaze focused on the smaller man. Jotaro raised an eyebrow and watched the interaction. Kakyoin scrutinized the stand, looking at him as if he were looking at a fine art piece in a museum.

“…”

“It’s strange...” Kakyoin said suddenly. “For the longest, I believed a stand reflects the soul of its user, like how Hierophant Green is so much like me. But now I wonder…” Kakyoin said.

“What are you saying?” Jotaro asked.

“Looking at him, I don’t get the same feeling I do when I look at you.” Kakyoin said. “It’s like a whole other person is standing before me...” Kakyoin said as he clutched his throbbing leg. "If only they could speak…”

“…”

“Kakyoin, let’s get going. We need to get you out of this heat.” Jotaro said as he reached down to lift Kakyoin. “I’ll carry you.”

“Absolutely not!” Kakyoin protested, his stubborn pride preventing him. “I’ll walk.” He said defiantly as he stood up, fighting against the agonizing pain in his legs.

“Kakyoin…” Jotaro muttered.

“You’ve already carried me before. That was me when I was still under Dio’s control. When I was at my lowest…” Kakyoin said, his voice hoarse from all his talking in the dry air. “I won’t…” he spoke as he began to feel dizzy and stumbled as he stepped forward.

“Kakyoin!” Jotaro shouted as the man collapsed again onto the sand.

“Leave me here, Jotaro. Save yourself.” Kakyoin muttered.

“Hell no. I’m not going to leave you here to die.” Jotaro said as he kneeled.

“Face it, Jotaro. Do you even know if we have been walking in the right direction? Leave me here and tell Holy and my parents I’m sorry.” Kakyoin said, the sadness in his eyes returning as he lay on the sand. “I can’t go on and you’re not going to last much longer out here if you stay or try to help me.”

“Enough.” Jotaro said as he lifted Kakyoin, who was weak and limp. “I’m not going to let you die, Kakyoin.”

“Let go…” Kakyoin said weakly as his eyes became heavy.

“Ora.” Star Platinum said suddenly.

     Jotaro glanced up at Star Platinum, surprised by his stand. Star Platinum pointed behind Jotaro, causing him to whip his head around. In the distance were two camels with men on their backs.

“Hey!” Jotaro shouted, his dry throat feeling raw.

     Thankfully, the men spotted Jotaro and quickly made their way toward him. Jotaro carried Kakyoin toward them, silently praying that they were his comrades and not enemy stand users out to assassinate him and Kakyoin. Jotaro was motivated to keep going, but even he knew he was close to his limits. He kept Star Platinum near in case of a fight.

“Mon Dieu! We finally found you two!” Polnareff shouted as he got off his camel and ran to the dying men with a large canteen.

“Thank God!” Joseph said when he was close enough to see his grandson and his friend were still alive.

     Jotaro carefully placed Kakyoin down on his back. The redhead lay unconscious. The sight made Jotaro’s heart race as Polnareff approached. Jotaro ripped the canteen from the Frenchman’s hands and tore off the cap. He splashed the water over Kakyoin’s face, rousing him from his unconscious state. He looked up at Jotaro, appearing dazed as Jotaro lifted him to a sitting position.

“Drink.” Jotaro ordered as he put the canteen up to Kakyoin’s lips.  

     Kakyoin gulped the water. Though it was quite warm, it was refreshing. He gasped and coughed as he nearly choked on the water.

“Take it easy.” Jotaro gently instructed as he helped Kakyoin drink more, unaware of the creeping smile on his face as he watched his beloved companion’s life in his eyes return.

“Haha! Jotaro, I never thought I would see you act so wife-like.” Polnareff chuckled.

“Tch.” Jotaro muttered as his smile vanished.

“Hey, this is no joke Polnareff! These boys could have died out there.” Joseph said as he took out his canteen. “You too. Drink, Jotaro.” He said as he handed his canteen to his grandson.

     Jotaro took one measly gulp before returning his focus to Kakyoin. Kakyoin panted as his face was still flushed pink from the heat. His eyes met Jotaro’s briefly before looking away, embarrassed to be back in such a vulnerable state again and in need of rescue.   

“Kakyoin, are you okay?” Jotaro asked.

Kakyoin nodded his head. “My legs are still cramping, but I feel better now.”

“That sandstorm earlier was crazy. It’s good that you two went north instead of east or south, or we would have never found you!” Polnareff explained.

“Good grief, I had a feeling were headed in the wrong direction.” Jotaro said before gulping down more water.

“Yarlpine is just west of here. We should get going before we run out of supplies.” Joseph said.

“Right.” Jotaro said as he swung a canteen over his shoulder and bent down to pick Kakyoin up again.

“Jotaro, put me down.” Kakyoin ordered but was still too weak to fight back.

“We could put Kakyoin on the camel.” Joseph suggested. “I’m fine with walking.”

“No. He doesn’t have much strength left. A fall from that height could be deadly.” Jotaro said as he continued westward.

     Polnareff snickered. Jotaro ignored the teasing and continued, keeping Star Platinum close for protection. Kakyoin glanced at the purple stand, who returned a knowing gaze.

     At long last, the Crusaders arrived at their destination. The camels eagerly walked toward a trough filled with water, lowering their furry heads and gulping down the water to quench their thirsts. Jotaro placed Kakyoin on a bench and sat beside him, panting exhaustedly. A local village boy and his dog watched the odd bunch of strangers.

“You guys stay here and rest while I find some cold drinks.” Joseph said before quickly running into the town in search of refreshments for the exhausted bunch.

“Thanks for saving me, Jotaro.” Kakyoin said with a smile. “I owe you.”

“Don’t mention it.” Jotaro said emotionlessly as he cracked his aching shoulder from carrying Kakyoin for miles. “I know you would have done the same for me.”

“Aww this is too precious!” Polnareff gushed as he framed the two with his thumbs and index fingers. “If I had a camera, you two would be gleaming over this photo as you grow old together.”

“Bastard…” Jotaro muttered through gritted teeth.

“Quit fooling around, Polnareff. Now isn’t the time.” Kakyoin said as he began unraveling his dirtied scarf.

“No wonder you two aren’t concerned about pulling women, you-” Polnareff was suddenly interrupted by being roughly grappled by Star Platinum, who wrapped his large muscular arms around the Frenchman’s abdomen from behind in a body lock.

“Ora!” Star Platinum bellowed as he lifted Polnareff, bridging his back and throwing him downward in a suplex.

     Polnareff was unceremoniously thrown into the camel trough, spooking the large mammals and causing them to spit at him as he was engulfed in the dirty water. He gasped for air as he rose from the trough, his light silver hair soaked and weighed down. Kakyoin began to laugh, wheezing, and shook his head as if the laughter was painful. The boy with his dog giggled as he watched Polnareff spit the water from his mouth. Polnareff emerged from the trough, his white pants were so heavily saturated in water that his black boxers showed through.

“Dégoûtant!” Polnareff shrieked and spat. “It got in my mouth!”

“I see London, I see France~!” Joseph sang as he returned with cold bottled sodas, laughing at Polnareff.

     Polnareff’s face flushed from all the laughter. Jotaro failed to hide a sadistic smile. For a man with so little shame, Polnareff felt as if he could die of embarrassment.

“Bratty kids!” Polnareff muttered at Jotaro and Kakyoin. “Whatever, we’re in town now. I’m going to go take a proper shower and shit.” He said as he walked away, throwing a middle finger back at his laughing teammates as he disappeared into town.

“I was feeling bad about not telling him the truth about Avdol, but in moments like this, keeping his survival a secret was the best choice.” Kakyoin said as he accepted the cold drink from Joseph. “Thank you, Mr. Joestar.”

“No problem. Once you two catch your breath, we should go find some food and a place to stay for the night. I’m exhausted.” Joseph said, wiping his sweaty brow.

“Food sounds lovely.” Kakyoin said with a hopeful look in his eyes.

“Maybe we can find a vendor who sells cherries.” Jotaro said as he glanced at Kakyoin.

“I would love that.” Kakyoin said with a warm smile at Jotaro, causing the young Joestar’s heart to flutter.

RING RING!

     The phone startled Jotaro at his work desk. He glanced around, realizing he had been daydreaming over old memories of his journey to Egypt again while at work. He felt ashamed for still thinking about the past while his wife was three days past their child’s due date. He picked up the ringing phone.

“Hello?” Jotaro answered.

“Mr. Kujo, I’m calling on behalf of your wife. She’s in labor.” A nurse said. “She wants you to come as soon as possible.”

“Thanks for letting me know. Tell her I’m on my way.” Jotaro said, feeling a rush of adrenaline as he got up and put on his jacket.

     Jotaro returned the phone and left his workplace, eagerly driving toward the hospital to be at his wife’s side. He imagined she was frightened of being alone. As he neared his destination, his mind went wild with thoughts.

I hope everything will be okay, Jotaro thought. I don’t know what I would do if something went wrong.

     Jotaro arrived and rushed into the hospital, searching for his wife. His heart thundered in his ears when he found her room. He stepped in, finding Electra in her hospital bed, adorned in a gown and a pained expression on her face.

“Jotaro. You’re here…” She said in a pained voice.

“I won’t leave your side.” Jotaro said as he sat beside her and took her hand into his.

     Jotaro remained with his wife for the rest of the day and into the night. The following twelve hours of anxiety had come to an end with the birth of their daughter. Jotaro smiled as he gazed down at his crying child, who was still quite red in the face and upset, distressed that she was no longer in the familiar environment of her mother’s womb. Electra held her, exhausted but elated and proud.

“She has your eyes, and even the same birthmark as you do.” Electra said. “Hold her, Jotaro.” Electra spoke as she carefully passed the newborn to him.

     Jotaro nervously took her, holding her close and adjusting the blanket she was wrapped in. The baby’s cries turned into soft coos as she calmed. She opened her faint blue eyes and stared at Jotaro. They sparkled and were full of pure love.

“Hello, Jolyne.” Jotaro said, his voice nearly cracking as a tear rolled down his cheek.

I will protect you with my life, Jotaro thought as he held his cherished newborn closer to him.

Chapter Text

Content Warning: Please be advised that there are graphic depictions of violence and PTSD in this chapter. Please read the summary if you do not wish to continue.

It’s hot.

“Huh? What did you say?” Kakyoin asked, turning to face Jotaro.

     Jotaro looked up at Kakyoin. White bandages covered his lavender eyes. He wore striped pajamas and a white hospital blanket covered him. Jotaro sat at the bedside in a chair, uncrossing his legs as he leaned forward, clutching his aching head.

“I said it’s hot in here.” Jotaro said, rubbing his temples.

“Really? It feels quite cold to me.” Kakyoin said as he rubbed his hands together to generate warmth from the friction. “My hands are like ice. Feel them.” He said as he reached out a hand toward Jotaro.

     Jotaro took Kakyoin’s hand. His hand felt unnaturally cold in contrast to the heat Jotaro felt in his body. Jotaro glanced down at his companion’s hand and noticed its unusual, pale, mottled appearance. Jotaro grasped Kakyoin’s long pajama sleeve and pulled it toward his upper arm, revealing his arm was in the same condition.

“Is something wrong?” Kakyoin asked as Jotaro stared, feeling a sense of dread overcome him.

“Shit! I need to call the nurse.” Jotaro said as he stood up.

“Why? What’s happening?” Kakyoin asked as blood spurt from his mouth.

     Jotaro felt his heart thunder in his ears. He stepped back, colliding with the chair he was previously sitting in and knocking it over. A surge of pain filled his entire body as the rising heat intensified. He fought against the pain until a horrible sinking feeling filled him.

“HHHHRRRRREEEEUUUUGGGGGHHHHHH!!!” Star Platinum bellowed in pain as he manifested from Jotaro.

“Star Platinum…!” Jotaro groaned as he gripped the hospital bed to prevent himself from collapsing.

“Jo…Jotaro…” Kakyoin whispered weakly as he struggled to remove the sheets from his bed. “M-My…” he spoke as he lifted his pajama shirt, revealing a large fresh wound and his exposed bowels.

“Kakyoin!” Jotaro shrieked.

     Star Platinum cried out in agony again as Kakyoin slumped in his hospital bed. Jotaro gritted his teeth as he attempted to walk. His entire body felt as if it were on fire. He looked up at the door and attempted to move his aching body forward to call for help. He stopped in the doorway, holding onto the doorframe to support himself.

“Noriaki…” A sorrowful female voice cried.

     Jotaro turned around. He saw a middle-aged man and woman adorned in black standing at Kakyoin’s bedside. The man had bright red hair with some white and gray hairs mixed in it. He bore a resemblance to Kakyoin. Kakyoin lay on the hospital bed, now adorned in a suit and his hands folded across his torso. Thin scars lay vertically across his closed eyes.

“No…” Jotaro muttered.

The mourning man looked up at Jotaro. “Why did you take away our son from us?” he asked Jotaro. “Why?” he whispered as he shuddered, tears filling his eyes.

“I-I…” Jotaro stammered and swallowed a lump in his throat. “I- ARGH!” Jotaro shouted as a shockwave of pain hammered his body.

“HHHRRREEEUUUUGGGHHH!” Star Platinum cried, tears running down his face as swung his fists around fruitlessly.

     Star Platinum cried out in pain as he floated above Jotaro, who had collapsed onto the floor. Jotaro watched helplessly as Star Platinum sparked brightly like lights flickering during a power surge. Jotaro felt like his body and mind were being split into two as the increasing heat consumed him.

Star Platinum is separating from me, Jotaro thought. I don’t have the strength to support my stand!

“Star Platinum, don’t leave me!” Jotaro cried. “I love you! Please!”

     Suddenly, The World attacked Star Platinum with fierce, blunt punches. Jotaro absorbed the transferred damage, feeling his bones cracking under the force. After enduring an onslaught of punches that felt like hours had passed, Jotaro gasped for breath as he lay hopelessly on the floor. A familiar maniacal laugh filled his ears.

“Wryyyyy…”

“Jotaro, wake up!”

     Jotaro awoke. He sat up, panting heavily and his body shaking. The bedroom was dark, only slightly illuminated by the early dawn light. Electra placed her hand on Jotaro’s shoulder. He flinched and turned to her with a wild look in his eyes.

“Jotaro, easy… You were having nightmares again.” Electra said with concern, her eyes filled with sadness. She placed her small hand back on his shoulder as he continued huffing. “Oh no, you’re burning up!” she said, moving her hand to his forehead. “You must’ve caught Jolyne’s flu.”

“Mm, yeah.” Jotaro muttered, the lump in his throat remaining.

It was all just a dream, Jotaro reassured himself as he focused on trying to stop his hands from trembling.

“What was it about?” Electra asked.

“Hm?” Jotaro mumbled, distracted by his pounding headache.

“Your dream. What happened in it?” Electra elaborated.

“Don’t worry about it. It was just a dream.” Jotaro said with a sigh.

“I know you’re not feeling well, and you probably think I’m nagging, but I wish you would open up to me. I love you, Jotaro. I want to help you, but you make it impossible if you don’t tell me what’s going on.” Electra said with her eyes filled with frustration. “Please.”

“It’s something I need to sort out on my own.” Jotaro insisted.

Electra let out an exasperated sigh. “This isn’t normal, Jotaro. For the past three years this has been happening. If you won’t talk to me about it, then consider seeing a therapist. I can go with you for support.” Electra said. “What you’re going through is too much to take on alone.”

“That’s not necessary.” Jotaro said. “Enough, just drop it.”

“I hope you don’t resent me.” Electra said with a sigh. “I know it’s not easy living in an unfamiliar place, far away from what you’re used to. Even though it’s been over three years now, I know you miss your homeland.”

“Please. Let it go.” Jotaro said, irritated.

“Alright…” Electra groaned, defeated. She climbed out of their bed and stood up. “I’m going to check on Jolyne. Just get some rest. I’ll come back with some water for you.” Electra said as she left the room.

“Thanks.” Jotaro muttered before coughing.

She wouldn’t understand, Jotaro thought. Star Platinum, you’re still with me, right? How horrible of me to still expect you to stay even when I rejected you… Jotaro closed his eyes to rest.

     Jotaro woke again hours later. The late morning sun filled the bedroom. He sat up in the bed, his eyes feeling heavy and his chest congested. He noticed he had removed his bedsheets during sleep, and his pajamas were soaked in sweat. He turned to the nightstand, where he saw that Electra had left him water with ice cubes. Most of the ice cubes had melted, and the sides of the cup were wet from condensation. Jotaro reached for the glass. His sweaty hand was greeted with a sudden cold sensation. He thought of Kakyoin’s cold, mottled hand in his.

CLINK!

     Jotaro dropped the glass. The icy water spilled across the carpet below. Jotaro’s hand shook as he sat in silence, recalling the nightmare he had, Kakyoin’s burial, and the shattered frame that held his treasured picture. Almost involuntarily, his shaking hand reached for the handle of the nightstand drawer. He yanked it with clumsy force and felt around for the frame. He found instead a thicker frame than he remembered. He pulled out the unfamiliar frame and stared down at it.

     There was no mistaking it. It was still the original photo, but the frame was new. It was a dark oak wooden frame with intact glass covering the picture. Jotaro stared at it blankly in silence. The smiling faces of his dead companions haunted him. 

“Jotaro.” Electra said from the doorway.

     Jotaro turned and glanced at her, holding the frame in his hand.

“Oh! You found the surprise I left you. I figured that old frame got busted during our move, so I found a new one to replace it!” Electra explained with excitement in her voice.

“…” Jotaro felt his heart sink as he thought of Star Platinum.

“You’re probably not up for company, but two men are here to see you. I told them you are sick, but they told me it’s important.” Electra explained. “I’m sorry.”

Jotaro cleared his throat. “It’s fine.” He said as he put the frame back in the drawer and picked up the glass he dropped, thankful it didn’t break when he dropped it.

“They’re waiting in the living room. I’m going to the store to make soup for you and Jolyne. Can I get you anything?” Electra asked.

“No, I’m fine.” Jotaro said as he stood up to get dressed.

“Jolyne is asleep. Please check on her in a bit.” Electra instructed as she turned to leave. “She’ll be thrilled to spend some time with you.”

     Electra left after informing the unexpected guests that Jotaro would be meeting with them shortly. She was flustered from the morning she had. Jolyne remained sleeping in her bedroom with the door closed.

     Jotaro put on a black long-sleeved shirt and his white pants. Despite not feeling well, he still wore his two belts. He put on his cap after washing his face and slipped on his house slippers. Hardly any thoughts ran through his exhausted mind as he got dressed. He left his bedroom and entered the living room to meet his guests.

“Ah, JoJo! It’s been too long!” A familiar voice said loudly. “My, you look so grown! And you have a lovely wife and home too. Je suis surprise!”

“Keep it down. My daughter is sleeping.” Jotaro demanded, looking quite tired.

“Oops! Je suis désolé.” Polnareff apologized, toning down on the volume of his voice and almost spilling the coffee Electra made for him. “And you have a daughter too! This is all too precious. I never imagined you to be a family man, JoJo.”

“Polnareff. I wasn’t expecting you to be in my living room this morning.” Jotaro said with irritation in his voice. “What in the hell are you doing here?”

“Relax, JoJo.” Polnareff said. “First, let me introduce my companion, Agent Yao E. He works for the Speedwagon Foundation” he explained.

“Greetings, Mr. Kujo.” The man adorned in a business suit said politely, his matching hat resting on the table. “Apologies for the intrusion.” He said bashfully.

“Good grief.” Jotaro sighed as he took a seat across from them. “Make it quick. My daughter and I are both sick.”

Polnareff moved away dramatically to increase the distance between himself and Jotaro. “Don’t sneeze on me, okay?” he said. “I wish I could say I was here for pleasure, but…” he said as he reached down to take another gulp of his coffee before speaking again.

     Jotaro looked at Polnareff’s other hand resting on his kneepads. Two of his fingers were reduced to small stumps. Jotaro felt a cold shiver when he remembered entering Dio’s lair. Iggy and Kakyoin’s remains were recovered after their final battle with Dio. Still, it sickened Jotaro how nothing remained of Avdol except the memories of him and the island home he left behind.

“Are you alright, JoJo?” Polnareff asked, noticing Jotaro’s hand shaking.

“I’m sick.” Jotaro said before sniffling. “Carry on.”

“I’ll repeat what I said. I was attacked in my home village in Paris by a stand user.” Polnareff said, a serious look across his face. “The bastard was one of Dio’s followers who was out looking for revenge.”

Jotaro felt his heart sink. “Where is he now?” Jotaro asked.

“He’s dead.” Polnareff said with a thousand-yard stare as he clasped his hands together. “He was so young too. I didn’t want to do it…” he said, with his eyes threatening to create tears. “…He was so hellbent on killing me that he almost killed my neighbors who were just trying to help me. One of them was in the hospital for an entire month…” Polnareff said, hot tears now streaming down his face.

     Jotaro was processing what he was being told. He stared down at the table at the coffee mugs. Agent Yao E. placed his hand on Polnareff’s shoulder as the Frenchman sobbed into his hands, sympathetic to the traumatized stand user.

“Damn it!” Polnareff cried. “Why do people just keep stepping in the way!? WHY!?” Polnareff said mournfully. “I’m so tired of it happening again and again and again and AGAIN.” He shouted as he trembled. “I should have died instead… Avdol… *hic* Iggy…” he cried.

“Polnareff, calm down.” Jotaro said.

“I can’t take it anymore. I thought I would be satisfied once I had my revenge on the bastard who killed my sister, but I need to avenge Avdol and Iggy!” Polnareff said. “It’s the only way!”

“The only way for what?” Jotaro asked.

“It’s the only way to stop the nightmares.” Polnareff said as he shuddered. “Almost every night now, I think about all the things I’ve done wrong… all the lives taken from me.” He cried. “All the people who sacrificed themselves for my sake… I want revenge!”

“Revenge? We avenged Avdol, Iggy, and Kakyoin when Dio died.” Jotaro said. “You’re not thinking clearly, Polnareff.”

“JoJo, we were not aware of the legacy that Dio had left behind. There are more stand users out there that are still under his influence. We need to find them and stop more from being created.” Polnareff said as his tightened his hand into a fist.

“What do you mean created?” Jotaro inquired.

“The man who attacked me revealed that an arrow struck him. It gave him his stand abilities.” Polnareff said with a wild look in his eyes. “Who knows just how many of them are out there, and there will be more if we don’t do something.”

“What do you intend to do?” Jotaro asked.

“JoJo, together we must go travel the world and investigate these arrows. We have to find more information about them!” Polnareff said with urgency in his voice. “Please, I’m begging you to help me! You’re the only one who can help. Joseph Joestar has been through enough grief. He should be enjoying his old age.”

Jotaro sighed. “Look, I completely understand where you’re coming from. But I have a family to look after.” Jotaro explained, to Polnareff’s dismay.

“WHAT THE FUCK HAPPENED TO YOU!?” Polnareff bellowed as he stood up, pointing a finger at Jotaro. “It’s only a matter of time until they find you and kill you, JoJo! Don’t you see that countless innocent lives are at stake? Not to mention your family. Are you seriously going to turn a blind eye while some insane Dio goon may be hunting your family down to avenge their heartless leader!?” Polnareff shouted. “Until we get more information, and I put a stop to whoever is creating these stand users, there will be no peace of mind! There are evil people out there, JoJo, whose will to fight may be stronger than all the good who try to stop it! We must stop it before it grows into a threat we cannot handle!” he spoke furiously.

“…” Jotaro sat in silence as he considered Polnareff’s words.

“…Daddy?”

     The three men turned their heads to the source of the small voice. In the hall leading to the living room was Jolyne, wearing a mermaid pajama set and her hair all messy from lying in her bed. She looked frightened at the two strange men in the living room. She turned to Jotaro and ran to him clumsily, grasping his leg and facing him, unwilling to make eye contact with the strangers. She rested her feverish head against his knee. Jotaro placed his hand on her head and patted her.

“Jolyne, it’s okay.” Jotaro said gently. “These are your daddy’s friends.”

“I was too loud.” Polnareff stated as he wiped away his tears. “I’m sorry.”

“Mr. Kujo, we apologize for the trouble we caused, but this is a serious matter. The Speedwagon Foundation is happy to assist you in every way we can, financially, medically, and whatever else you desire if you choose to help us.” Agent Yao E. said as he reached into his pocket. “Here is my card.” He said as he took out a card with his contact information and stood up. “Mr. Polnareff, let’s get going.”

     Jolyne turned her head and looked up at Polnareff. Her green eyes sparkled as she studied him, looking like a frightened stray kitten that had been cornered. Polnareff studied her.

“She’s precious, JoJo. She looks like a little porcelain doll.” Polnareff said with a genuine smile as he observed her. “She even has your eyes! They’re greener, though.”

“Her eyes were blue when she was born. They changed because she’s growing into a big girl, right Jolyne?” Jotaro asked with love in his voice.

“Yeah.” Jolyne chirped as she turned to look back at her father. “…I’m sleepy.”

“Please excuse me. I need to take care of my child.” Jotaro said as he picked up Jolyne and held her against his broad chest.

“Of course.” Polnareff said bashfully. “JoJo, I’m staying in a hotel nearby. Think about what I said and sleep on it, d'accord? I will await your answer by the end of tomorrow.” Polnareff said. “Feel better, you two. I will see us out.” He said as he and Agent Yao E. exited through the front door.

“I want to sleep with you.” Jolyne stated.

“You’re getting too old for that.” Jotaro replied.

“Pleeease?” She said with her eyes still full of fright from the man waking her with his yelling.

“Good grief. Alright, as long as you sleep.” Jotaro said as he carried her to the master bedroom.

     Jotaro put on a pair of clean pajamas. The winter air outside was cool and crisp, but their fevers kept them warm. Jotaro glanced out the window, observing the still green plants rustling in the wind. Unlike his native land where it snowed in the winter, the foliage remained green and lively year-round in Florida.

     He returned to his bed, where Jolyne lay, resting her aching head and sniffling to clear up her stuffy nose. Jotaro lay beside her, unaware of the smile on his face as she got close to him and buried her face into his chest. He placed his arm around her as she settled in the bed. She fell asleep quickly, feeling safe in her father’s arms.

You’re the one who keeps me going, Jotaro thought as he closed his eyes. I will do whatever it takes to keep you safe.

Chapter Text

     Jotaro arrived in Japan. This visit was the first in years since he had moved to America. His homeland, the Land of the Rising Sun, filled him with melancholy. Ominous dark clouds occupied the skies, concealing the setting sun as he boarded a train from the airport into downtown Tokyo.

     One may describe the city as bleak. Towering gray buildings filled the area, pointing upward toward the matching grey and gloomy sky. Mount Fuji loomed in the distance, standing proud as a mighty work of nature, unlike the metropolitan area before it. The scant colors arose from the bright, flashy city lights and signs, an artificial rainbow in a concrete jungle. The bustling streets were flooded with compact cars and countless people walking to their destinations.

     Jotaro looked around at the familiar yet alien streets. The economic turmoil of the stock market crash of the early 1990s, combined with the technology boom, transformed his former home. Some of the stores Jotaro was familiar with had either undergone an unrecognizable refurbishment or had been closed and shuttered. He passed by the music store where he had previously purchased some cassette tapes that now heavily advertised CDs and CD players. The people on the streets fiercely maintained their expected social harmony but could not hide their exhaustion. It was the opposite of what Jotaro experienced in America, where the stability translated into optimism for the future.

     Jotaro was eager to get to his hotel, away from the street's constant noise and chaos. He longed for a quiet place to rest his tired mind and body. Unfortunately for him, there was still work to do. Rest was a scarce resource for him over the last few years since he and Polnareff had set out to investigate the mysterious arrows.  

     The last time Jotaro heard from Polnareff was mere weeks after the Frenchman had departed from Africa and traveled to Europe. Communication proved difficult since they constantly moved, but Jotaro suspected something had gone awry, which left him uneasy as he traveled alone.

“JoJo, if anything happens to me, do not come to rescue me. We must accept the risks involved. We’re only two people, so all is lost if we both die. Comprendre?” Polnareff said to Jotaro before they departed from Florida.

“Understood. We’ll be in touch” Jotaro agreed as he placed his hands in his pockets. “And call me Jotaro.” He said before they parted ways.

Polnareff is strong, but since we’re both on our own, it’s possible he was overpowered, Jotaro thought. Right now, he’s either keeping his head down or he’s dead.

     Jotaro sighed as he entered his hotel room, removing his jacket and shoes by the door. The Speedwagon Foundation generously supplied the Joestar with opulent accommodation, but no bed compares to the familiar one in one’s home. For Jotaro, it did not matter whether it was a penthouse suite or a cramped space; it was yet another empty room for his loneliness to fester.

     He sat on a chair beside an end table with a phone, his eyes resting on the floor, reflecting on the last few years. His search across America was fruitless. He traveled searching for information and any leads on the mysterious artifacts, only to spend his days constantly looking over his shoulder and missing his family. His continued marine biology studies kept him sane in his lonesome.

“When you find something you love, it makes life worth living. Whatever it is, you must never let it go, or you will suffer for it.” Kakyoin had told him.

     Not a day went by that Jotaro didn’t think about Star Platinum. He tried to push him from his mind, but his longing for him persisted. It wasn’t a feeling that Jotaro fully understood. The feeling made him uncomfortable, which always made him turn his focus on something else.

Let’s get this over with, Jotaro thought as he picked up the phone and dialed a number.

“Agent Yao E.” a man answered over the phone.

“It’s Jotaro. I arrived in Tokyo.” Jotaro said as he reclined in his chair, his eyes feeling heavy.

“Excellent, Mr. Kujo. There are some areas of interest in Japan that we are currently investigating.” The Speedwagon Foundation agent explained.

“Where in particular?” Jotaro asked, his foot tapping restlessly on the floor.

“Of all our leads, a town called Morioh holds the most promise. It’s located north of Tokyo, along the eastern coast.” The agent explained.

“What makes Morioh stand out the most?” Jotaro asked.

“I’ll give you all the details tomorrow. For now, you should focus on getting some rest.” The agent responded.

“Alright.” Jotaro sighed, too tired to argue. “Before you go, tell me, has there been any sign of Polnareff?”

“I’m afraid not.” The agent said sadly. “But if I hear anything, I will contact you immediately.”

“Thanks.” Jotaro said flatly before hanging up.

Naturally, whenever I finish investigating Asia, I will go to Europe next, Jotaro thought. Whether Polnareff is dead or alive, I can’t rest until I uncover the secrets of these arrows and prevent them from being misused. Nowhere is safe until then.

     Jotaro felt uneasy about his situation. It’s a fact that stand users are attracted to each other by some supernatural means. Usually, he would call upon his stand for protection, but the thought of Star Platinum brought him pain. He recalled the look of betrayal in his stand’s eyes. The short temper that festered in the younger Jotaro also reflected in Star Platinum, fueling his sudden outburst that fateful night.

     Jotaro spent years with his stand, wishing Star Platinum could be more like him, but now, after enduring years of strife, he understood that maybe it was better if it was the other way around. Star Platinum didn’t overthink things or worry about the future. At least, that’s how it seemed to Jotaro. The stand was content with living in the moment and forgiving of the past. Jotaro had rejected him long before due to a misunderstanding, but could Star Platinum forgive him for the years of isolation? Was their love born from dependency and convenience or true understanding? Even for over two thousand days, Jotaro could still feel Star Platinum’s ghostly embrace.

Think of something else, Jotaro thought to himself as he sat up and crossed his legs.

     The exhausted man gazed out the glass sliding door leading to a balcony. The sun departed for the night, allowing the artificial lights around the metropolitan area to take over. Jotaro glanced at his watch. It was morning in Florida. Jotaro called his wife.

“Hello?” Electra answered sleepily.

“Good morning.” Jotaro greeted.

“Oh, Jotaro. It’s good to hear your voice.” She spoke. “Will you be coming home soon?”

“Not likely. I had to travel to Japan. I’ll be here for awhile.” Jotaro explained.

“J-Japan!?” Electra stammered. “Why so far?”

“I don’t have a choice. It’s where I need to be.” Jotaro said tiredly.

“Jotaro, where you need to be is with your family. You’ve barely been home in the past few years. Don’t you care about me and your daughter?” Electra asked.

“Of course I do.” Jotaro responded.

“Seriously, what kind of father are you? I thought you didn’t want to be like your father.” Electra accused.

“My father was out playing music and partying. I’m working on something important.” Jotaro said curtly.

“Something that you don’t even explain to me.” Electra said angrily. “I’m getting really tired of you keeping things from me, Jotaro. Don’t you care about how your absence is affecting Jolyne? She needs you in her life.”

“I know.” Jotaro sighed. “Trust me, I wish I could be there.”

“Jotaro, for Jolyne, I’m the first and last person she sees daily. She’s in school now, but managing our household is difficult for just one person. I feel like a single parent and I’m so tired of living like this. You need to quit this job and come home. Whatever they’re paying you, it’s not worth what you’re missing out on.” Electra argued.

“I can’t. You don’t understand.” Jotaro said.

“Damn it! I don’t want to hear you say that again. You’re going to book a flight home right now.” She spoke with gritted teeth.

“Calm down. I-” Jotaro started.

“Calm down!? How do you think I feel? You’re a poor excuse of a father and a husband, Jotaro!” Electra yelled before slamming the phone down.

“Good grief.” Jotaro muttered as he returned the phone to the receiver.

     Jotaro’s eyes traveled across the room before focusing on his luggage. He walked over to his bag and retrieved a large marine science textbook. He returned to the chair and flipped to the last page he was on.

     He read the page, struggling to focus on each paragraph and needing to reread each sentence to comprehend it. He became aware of his restless leg tapping on the floor and readjusted his posture before attempting to read again. He reached to turn the page, noticing that his hand was trembling. Ignoring this, he focused on the text again. His eyes burned as he read, and he could feel palpitations in his chest.

Give me a fucking break, Jotaro thought as he shut the book and placed it next to the phone.

     Jotaro leaned forward as he sat, looking across the room. He felt tense and struggled to stay still, crossing his arms and closing his eyes to calm himself. He felt the pressure of his large hands across his arms. It did little to satisfy his craving for touch. Nothing can replace the warm embrace of a loved one.

     Instead, he rose from his chair and walked toward the balcony. Once outside, he took a pack of cigarettes from his pocket and lit one, his hand shaking as he held the lighter. He puffed the cigarette, filling his lungs with the intoxicating chemicals. He glanced around at the city.

     The sky was heavy with clouds, obscuring the stars above. Jotaro could smell the faint scent of rain, quickly replaced by his cigarette smoke. Jotaro’s eyes traveled around, taking in the sights of the city. Mount Fuji would have been in plain view if not for the darkness of the night.  

     Jotaro heard the loud ringing of a nearby clock tower. As he smoked his cigarette, his eyes traveled to the source of the sound. Light illuminated the face of the giant clock, making it easy to spot from his hotel room. Jotaro gazed at it before suddenly feeling a tightness in his chest and shortness of breath. His vision became fuzzy, and he placed a hand over his chest. He glanced back at the clock tower and saw a large crack across the face. It appeared the same way he remembered the clock tower in Egypt after Kakyoin struck it with his final Emerald Splash.

Calm down, it’s not real, Jotaro thought as he focused on breathing.

     His hands trembled more, causing him to drop his cigarette off the side of the balcony.

“Shit.” Jotaro murmured as he held onto the rail with his now free hand.

     His heart pounded, and his mind flooded with the desire to fight or flee the situation. He focused on his breathing and his footing as he held onto the rail. He glanced down as he panted. The hotel room was on the top floor, about 32 flights above ground. It was already quite a long way down, but from Jotaro’s perspective, the street below seemed to increase in distance the longer he stared at it. It would have looked like a bottomless pit if it weren’t for the streetlights and cars below.

     Jotaro carefully lowered himself down onto a seat, holding the chair arms tightly as he regained control over his panic-struck body. The gentle patter of the fresh rain filled his ears, calming him as he breathed. He reclined in the chair, relieved the episode was over. He reached into his pocket for another cigarette and quickly realized the one he dropped was his last.

“Good grief.” Jotaro murmured as he wiped the sweat from his brow.

I’m too keyed up to sleep, Jotaro thought. Maybe a walk would help me clear my head.

     Jotaro retrieved his jacket and slipped on his shoes before leaving his soulless hotel room. He traveled downstairs to the street and began searching for a convenience store. Once he got his bearings, he knew the right direction of the familiar store. The gentle rain suddenly became heavy, pelting the Joestar with hard droplets. This caused Jotaro to detour through an alleyway, which was, fortunately, a shortcut to his destination. He focused his eyes on the concrete below as he walked briskly through the darkness with his hands in his pockets.

     Jotaro suddenly ran into something. It was solid but not flat like a wall. Jotaro glanced under his hat’s brim, suspecting he had bumped into another person. The figure sported a supernatural purplish glow. Jotaro’s eyes widened as he glanced at the face of the hulking figure, instantly recognizing the blue-eyed individual before him.

It’s Star Platinum! Jotaro thought as he froze.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pk3HBb0mh5Q

Chapter Text

Content Warning: Please be advised that this chapter has graphic depictions of violence. Please read the summary if you do not wish to continue.

     Jotaro froze. His beloved stand, Star Platinum, stood before him in the dark alleyway. The towering figure gazed down at Jotaro, his piercing blue eyes unreadable to the man. Star Platinum’s ghostly body glowed like bioluminescence in the dark sea. His skin sparkled like the dazzling night sky, and his long hair flowed in the icy wind. Unlike Jotaro, he seemed unaffected by the downpour. The rainwater cascaded down his burly body like that of an outdoor statue. Jotaro shivered; the sensation of the cold water reawakened him from his stupor.

“Star Platinum…” Jotaro muttered, still awestruck.

I must be hallucinating, Jotaro thought as he shook his head. This must be from the jet lag and exhaustion piling on me.

     Jotaro averted his gaze and continued walking, stepping around Star Platinum as he continued his trip to the convenience store. The neon green light emanating from the storefront lit the street ahead. Shallow puddles of rainwater along the sidewalk reflected the emerald splash of light. Jotaro felt a pain in his heart as he walked away, but he did not slow his pace.

     The Joestar felt a sudden weight on his shoulder. He turned around, wide-eyed. Star Platinum stood, his large hand resting on Jotaro’s shoulder, causing Jotaro to doubt his perceptions.

No way, this can’t be real… Jotaro thought as his gaze traveled to his stand’s face.

     Star Platinum’s stoic face managed a sweet smile. Jotaro felt his heart flutter at the sight. Memories of his younger self and his stand flooded his mind. He missed that intimate connection he felt with him. Star Platinum was the only one he had who truly understood him. The stand knew how much Jotaro loved to be held. The mighty stand not only nurtured Jotaro’s strengths but also his weaknesses. It was clear his stand cherished him.

     Together, they defeated Dio Brando, a powerful vampire who aspired to become a God. Together, they saved Jotaro’s mother and his grandfather. Together, unbeknownst to them, they had saved countless lives from Dio’s influence. And now, after years of separation, they were unexpectedly face to face. Jotaro’s eyes felt heavy as he watched Star Platinum remove his hand from his shoulder and open his arms wide.

“Star… I…” Jotaro faltered.

     Star Platinum approached Jotaro, gliding across the wet pavement with arms stretched out. Jotaro stood, unable to resist, allowing his stand’s large arms to wrap around him, embracing him tenderly. Hot tears threatened to spill from his eyes as his body felt warmth in the tight caress. He surrendered, wrapping his arms around Star Platinum. His heart pounded happily, and he felt like all his fears were washed away with the rain.

“Star Platinum, I’m so sorry.” Jotaro cried, burying his face in his stand’s broad chest. “I missed you so fucking much.”

     Jotaro felt his stand’s large and warm hand stroke his back reassuringly. The sensation felt so good, but Jotaro’s guilt remained in him. He had locked his poor stand in the dark recesses of his mind, choosing the family he made over him. It felt cruel to repeat his old mistake, leaving him alone and feeling unwanted.

“Forgive me…” Jotaro begged.

Please, Star Platinum, forgive me! Jotaro thought. Say something!

“Jotaro.”

     Jotaro froze again. He felt a cold shiver up his spine. The voice he heard was just like the deep, sultry voice he heard in his dreams of his stand. However, Star Platinum does not speak.

     The warm embrace by Star Platinum turned into a suffocating constriction. Jotaro felt the air escape his lungs suddenly like he had just been punched in the gut. He gasped for air, but his stand’s tightening muscles only squeezed him harder.

“S-Sta-” Jotaro squeaked, a wave of panic crashing over him as he was unable to breathe.

     Jotaro attempted to get out of the tight grasp, but his attempts were futile against the strength of his stand. His fingertips clawed the back of Star Platinum as the stand’s grip intensified. Jotaro felt his ribs crack. He kept gasping for air as he continued in vain to fight back. The cold rain kept him alert as the oxygen level in his blood began to tank.

     The hurt of this betrayal filled him as one of his ribs broke and pierced his lung. He groaned from the pain and coughed as he continued to struggle for air. Warm, fresh blood filled his mouth, staining his white jacket as he still struggled to escape the constriction.

“Ahahahaha!” Star Platinum laughed.

This isn’t Star Platinum! Jotaro thought as the demonic laughter filled his ears.

     The wicked trickster released Jotaro, pushing him hard against the brick wall of the alleyway, causing the old bricks to break apart from the impact. Though Jotaro was released from the imposter’s grasp, he struggled to breathe as blood continued to fill his pierced lung. His vision was beginning to blur, and his body was already weak. The hulking stand that deceived Jotaro began to change form, turning from the colorful Star Platinum into a monochrome figure black as the night, with an elongated face like a horse and razor-sharp teeth. The fearsome beast wore a black loincloth and silver chains across its body. Its glowing crimson eyes were like that of the evening sun.

“Kujo Jotaro.” A voice echoed from the end of the alleyway.

     A lone man swaggered into the dark alley. He was dressed as a biker, with black leather pants, spikey boots, and a jacket. The jacket's opening exposed his bare chest. Silver studs decorated his attire, and his long, curly hair rested along his shoulders and back. His eyes were cold and distant, like that of a killer.

“I’ve been hunting you for years now.” He stated as he stood before the fallen Joestar, his stand at his side. “You were not very easy to find.” He said with annoyance in his voice. “But it was all worth it for this moment, to avenge my Lord.”

I should’ve known… Jotaro thought as he coughed up more blood. One of Dio’s followers was tracking me all along!

“Oh, how rude of me. I should introduce myself before you die. It’s the least I could do.” The enemy stand user chuckled. “My name is Ronaldo Padavona, and this is my stand, Murray. Murray has the ability to transform into the object of one’s desire. People tend to have a few, but it always chooses the one with which the heart is most infatuated! It can be anyone or anything, like money, precious jewels, an unrequited love, you get the picture.” He explained. “I must say, though, I was not expecting whatever Murray conjured for you. I was expecting a pretty woman or something like that… After all, our loves are a reflection of who we are. Oh well. No matter who or what that thing was, you’re going to die soon, anyways!”

…Is this how I die? Jotaro thought as Padavona and Murray laughed.

     Jotaro’s mind filled recklessly with thoughts. Several faces of people he knew entered his mind. He thought about his beloved friend, Kakyoin. The crusaders faced certain death before together. He remembered his conversation with him before their journey across the desert.

-

“What is strength to you?” Jotaro asked as he studied Kakyoin.

Kakyoin thought deeply before answering. “Knowing when to hold on and when to let go.” Kakyoin said. “Even further, the ability to hold on and let go.”

“So then, what are you holding on to? Or rather, what do you regret letting go?” Jotaro asked.

Kakyoin frowned. “It’s not any of those things. My fear is rooted in having to choose when the moment comes.”

-

Even after all these years, making choices hasn’t gotten easier, Jotaro thought. Even the right choice has its consequences. It’s all come to this moment.

     Jotaro thought about Star Platinum. Perhaps with his death, the stand would be free from this life of suffering and servitude. All along, this body that was rapidly losing blood was what tied the two together. This same blood ran through the veins of a little girl who prayed for her father’s return. The cursed Joestar blood pooled in the sea of icy rain around the man. The sound of passing cars in the rain reminded Jotaro of the Shichirigahama waves crashing along the beach. He remembered the beach fondly, as it was one of Star Platinum’s favorite places.

-

“It’s strange to consider all these stars will burn out and die someday…” Jotaro said. “When I die someday, where will you go?”

…

“What should I do if I can’t even say what I feel?”

…

“Star Platinum, let’s go home.” Jotaro pleaded. “I need you.”

-

     Home. Home was wherever the two went together. Over the years, the Joestar lost the idea of home. The only other person who made him feel that way was Jolyne.

“Are you still with us, Kujo?” Padavona said mockingly. “Before you die, I want you to know something. I loved my master. My life was meaningless and lonely until I crossed paths with him. Finally, I met someone who saw my value! But you took it all away from me.” He growled. “Once I finish you off, I’ll keep up my hunt until every one of your friends involved in Dio’s murder is dead! I won’t be satisfied until all of his other servants who deserted him are dead too! And once they’ve been wiped from the face of this miserable earth, I’ll destroy everyone you hold dear~!” Padavona laughed.

Jolyne! Jotaro thought, mustering up the last of his strength.

“Star Platinum!” Jotaro bellowed, blood flowing from his mouth.

     With the power and speed of a jet, Star Platinum emerged from Jotaro. His mighty fist struck, bludgeoning against Murray's chin, causing his entire body to spin from the impact. Padavona felt the impact, concussing him as the transferred damage sent a surge of pain through his body.

“ORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORA!!!” Star Platinum bellowed as he pummeled Murray.

     Blood sprayed from Padavona’s mouth. His eyes were wide and full of shock at the speed and power of Jotaro’s stand. He was knocked down from the damage transferred onto him, groaning as he attempted to get up, but was unable to due to his shattered bones.

“Good grief.” Jotaro spoke through Star Platinum’s lips. “I was wondering what it was going to take to make you shut the fuck up.” He said as he pointed at Padavona, who was quickly realizing the peril he was now facing.

“It's so fast!” Padavona shrieked before coughing up more blood. “No way, you’re in love with your stand!? You sick bastard!”

“…”

     Star Platinum got a look of bloodlust in his eyes at the downed man before him.

“It’s true. But at least I know what love is. Your love for Dio is a shallow one at that. That man was not blackhearted because that would imply he had a heart. Dio Brando was heartless. He didn’t love you or anyone else. You were just a tool for him. He wouldn’t have shed a tear for you if you died for him.” Jotaro stated.

“Lies!” Padavona spat. “It doesn’t matter anyway if the master didn’t love me. My love for him is still true!”

“Padavona, Dio called upon his loyal servants to take me and my friends out on our way to Egypt. Yet, I didn’t see you anywhere, coward.” Jotaro spoke before he coughed up more blood. “Didn’t you say that our loves are a reflection of who we are?” Jotaro spoke through his beloved stand’s lips. “If that’s so, I’m not letting an evil fucker like you live to see another day.”

“Shit!” Padavona said as he tried to escape, attempting to reach for a nearby manhole cover.

     Star Platinum again lunged into battle, crushing the manhole cover with a single stomp. Padavona froze as he gazed up at Star Platinum, his face contorted in fear. Rage filled the eyes of the mighty stand.

“ORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORA!!!” Star Platinum bellowed as he unleashed another flurry of punches on the defenseless man.

Damn it… Jotaro thought as his vision grew blurrier. I’ve lost so much blood now. I’m not going to survive this…

     Padavona lay silently on the wet concrete, his broken body heavy and seemingly lifeless. Star Platinum’s punches grew weak. He resorted to kicking the fallen man, busting his ribs in the continued savage attack.

Enough now… Star Platinum… Jotaro thought as he continued to gasp for air.

     Star Platinum paused. He turned away from Padavona to face Jotaro. Star Platinum observed the sorry state of his master. The last few years were not kind to him, leaving dark circles under his young blue ocean eyes. His body was much leaner now and tired from the years of travel and lack of rest. Jotaro gazed at Star Platinum, who floated down to his side to be close to him.

“…”

“I- *wheeze* I’m s-sorry.” Jotaro said in a whisper.

“…”

     Star Platinum’s eyes filled with sorrow and fear.

“Listen…*cough*” Jotaro wheezed.

     Star Platinum looked around frantically and noticed the broken bricks laying around Jotaro. He picked one up and looked toward the end of the alleyway. He targeted a man passing by on the street and threw the brick.

“Ora!” he bellowed as he chucked the brick.

    The brick struck a glass window, shattering it. The shop’s alarm began to blare. The loud clatter alerted the few people walking nearby, grabbing their attention.

“S-Star Plat- *cough* I lo-” Jotaro said weakly.

“…”

     Star Platinum grabbed more bricks frantically and threw them down the alleyway. One struck a dumpster, causing a loud bang. Jotaro could hear the voices of people along the street as they investigated the noise. A fractured brick struck one man.

“Fuck! Damn kids! I’ll kill them!” The man said, rushing down the alleyway. “Holy shit!” he shrieked as soon as he stumbled upon Jotaro and Padavona, unaware of Star Platinum next to him. “Someone, call an ambulance!” the man yelled at the small crowd by the street.

“…”

Please listen Star Platinum… Jotaro thought. These are my final words.

“I *cough* love y-” Jotaro said before he slumped over.

“!!!”

Jolyne… Jotaro thought as his consciousness slipped away when his heart stopped.

     Star Platinum reached into Jotaro’s chest, clutching his failed heart. He remembered doing this before, gently squeezing the organ to continue perfusion through his body. Tears flowed down his face as the distant sound of an ambulance ran through his ears. He continued his compressions on Jotaro’s heart, silently hoping that help would arrive soon before it was too late.

…

…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pk3HBb0mh5Q

Chapter Text

     Jotaro lay in a hospital bed. His eyes remained shut as he wore an oxygen mask over his mouth and nose. His chest slowly rose and fell. He gradually became conscious enough to perceive the sound of his breathing and the pain radiating from his side during each breath, but he was unable to open his eyes.

What happened? Jotaro thought. Where am I?

“Oh! I just saw his finger twitch!” A jovial female voice rang in the room suddenly.

“Let me see.” An older, stern voice rang. Silence fell in the room for a minute. “You’re imagining things. Wishful thinking isn’t going to bring Pretty Boy here out of a coma.”

“What’s going on?” A male voice rang from outside the room.

“Doctor Clamp, I saw a finger twitch. I’m not imagining things!” The younger voice said.

“I’ll take a look.” The doctor said, his footsteps filling the room as he approached the bedside. “Why is his hat still on? Let’s remove it so I can get a better look at his-”

“ORA!”

BAM!

“Doctor Clamp!” The young nurse shrieked.

“What the hell was that!? How did that happen?” The older nurse asked in a panicked voice.

Star Platinum? … Jotaro thought before slipping back into unconsciousness.

       Jotaro awoke underwater. He lay flat on his back, gazing at the pink-hued sky above him. He could see the water’s surface above him. He rose, breaching the water’s surface, and examined his surroundings. The still, dark water reached in all directions. Judging by the color of the sky, it appeared to be sunset, but the setting sun was absent from view. Distant stars lit up the sky as the pink gradually changed to a hue of indigo. The only thing that stood out in this alien terrain was a tall white tower pointing toward the mysterious sky.

     Jotaro squinted his eyes as he observed the tower. At the top of the building stood a single silhouette of what appeared to be a man. The hair on Jotaro's neck stood up as he felt an evil presence. A distant church bell rang in his eardrums, intensifying in volume with each chime. Below where the man stood was the face of a large clock. The bell rang out loudly, shattering the face of the clock. Jotaro curled his fists and his body shook wildly.

“Jotaro.”

     Jotaro’s eyes opened wide. The bright, sterile fluorescent lights above him were blinding. He blinked his eyes as they adjusted to his surroundings. His head pounded as he glanced around the room, which was small and packed with medical equipment. Two empty chairs stood at the end of the room by the door, and the floor near the doorway was strangely marked hastily with what appeared to be painter’s tape. The faint scent of rubbing alcohol filled the dry hospital air. Jotaro felt weight around his upper arms and chest. His stand’s large arms were wrapped around him protectively.

“…”

“Star Platinum…” Jotaro whispered before coughing, feeling a heavy lump in his dry throat.

“Hello?” A voice rang out from outside the room. A young nurse appeared in the doorway. “Oh my gosh! You’re awake~!” The nurse said with a big smile. She nearly ran into the room but suddenly stopped before crossing the tape. A severe look formed on her face. “Please stay there, and don’t get up. I have to call the doctor.” she said before turning back and running down the hallway.

What was that about? Jotaro wondered as he felt Star Platinum’s grip tighten around him.

     Suddenly, a man appeared in the doorway. He was adorned in colorful apparel, sporting a deep V-neck floral tunic underneath an oversized collared dark denim vest. His denim pants were stylishly baggy, and he wore tan suede loafers. He wore an oversized Cuban chain and a long gold pendant necklace with a peace symbol, which rested against his brown skin. His intense hazel eyes focused on Jotaro.

“…”

     Star Platinum glared at the man. 

Something is up with this guy, Jotaro thought. I doubt he’s a doctor.

“Jotaro Kujo.” The man said suddenly as he leaned on the doorway casually.

“Who are you?” Jotaro asked, his body tense.

“Relax. I’m with the Speedwagon Foundation.” He spoke as he fidgeted with something in his pocket. “You can call me Trugoy.”

“Why are you here?” Jotaro asked.

“Your grandfather Mr. Joestar had put in your chart for any hospital to call the foundation if you were admitted. I was sent here because I can see your stand, which is quite dangerous.” Trugoy said nervously, breaking eye contact. He produced a fresh lime that was cut in half from his pocket. He raised his chin as he placed the lime up to his lips, squeezing it as he drank the sweet and bitter citrus fluids. The fruit juice spilled down his chin as he continued to squeeze until some seeds got into his mouth. He bit down, chewing the seeds like candy and swallowing them before placing the lime back in his pocket. He glanced back at Jotaro. “Your stand has attacked some staff members based on the report I received. I estimated its range is about 2 meters. It was so fast that my stand, De La Soul, just barely avoided it.” he said as he glanced down at the tape and tapped his foot near it. 

“…”

“I had a suspicion you were a stand user.” Jotaro said flatly.

“Huh. I wonder what gave you that impression.” Trugoy said with a puzzled look. “Anyway, do you recall what happened?”

“Shit!” Jotaro cursed as he sat up suddenly, the pain in his chest forcing him to lay back down as Star Platinum looked concerned for him. “My family. Are they safe?” Jotaro asked, fear filling his eyes.

“Yes. The foundation took extra safety precautions and moved your wife and daughter to another location. However, your wife was unwilling to leave Florida, so they were relocated in the eastern region.” Trugoy explained to Jotaro’s relief.

“What happened to Padavona?” Jotaro asked.

“He’s alive, but with the extent of his injuries, death would have been merciful.” Trugoy explained anxiously. “It’s a miracle that you survived. You have a guardian angel watching over you, Kujo.”

“…”

“Something like that,” Jotaro said about his stand, who remained glaring at Trugoy across the room. “How long have I been here?”

“It’s been four days.” Trugoy said. “Oh, I just remembered, yo-”

“Jotaro!”

     Trugoy was nearly pushed out of the doorway by a blonde woman. It was Electra, looking quite scared and frazzled. She barreled into the room, crossing over the tape on the floor.

“Ma’am, wait!” Trugoy said as he grabbed her arm and tried to pull her back. “It’s dangerous!”

“Hands off!” She scolded him as she swatted his arm away and went to Jotaro’s side.

     Star Platinum rose from his position. Trugoy watched as the mighty stand stood, floating by the bedside and watching Electra as she approached. He summoned his stand, preparing for Star Platinum to attack, but he remained still.

“…”

“Jotaro…” Electra said tearfully as she examined him. “What in God’s name happened?”

“Trugoy, give us some space.” Jotaro said to the stand user. “Everything is fine.” He assured him.

“What a day…” Trugoy sighed as he reached into his vest and pulled out a whole kiwi fruit, biting through the tough, fuzzy exterior as he left the stuffy hospital hallway. 

“Electra. What are you doing here?” Jotaro asked.

“I’m your wife! Why wouldn’t I come to see you?” she said defensively.

“Where is Jolyne?” Jotaro asked.

“I had to leave her with my parents. I’m not happy I had to do that, but it was my only option at such a short notice.” Electra explained.

“No. She can’t stay there. It’s not safe.” Jotaro said. “You were both moved for a reason.”

“I’m so sick of nobody telling me anything! What is going on, Jotaro?” Electra asked angrily.

“I doubt you will believe me.” Jotaro said.

“Bullshit! You’re going to tell me everything, NOW.” Electra yelled. “I want to know what you have been doing all this time and why poor Jolyne and I just got our lives uprooted.”

Jotaro sighed, feeling exhausted still from this whole experience. “Several years ago, I traveled to Egypt to save my mother from a sickness. A vampire called Dio was behind it, so I went with my grandfather and my friends to stop him. We all have these powerful entities called ‘stands’, which we use to fight. We eliminated Dio, but some of his followers remain. More stand users have been mysteriously popping up across the globe, so I set out to investigate.” Jotaro explained. “I was attacked by a stand user shortly after I arrived here.”

“Vampires? Jotaro, are you serious right now?” Electra said incredulously.

“I’m telling you the truth.” Jotaro stressed.

“Everything was fine until that French man showed up at our house…” Electra said as she studied Jotaro’s eyes. “What is he to you?”

“He is one of the men I traveled with to Egypt. He asked for my help investigating the appearance of new stand users. That’s why I have been gone for so long.” Jotaro explained.

“Where is he?” Electra asked.

“He’s gone missing. I haven’t heard from him in months since he arrived in Europe.” Jotaro admitted.

“Oh, how convenient! You’re certainly good at hiding people...” Electra said, crossing her arms.

“What are you talking about?” Jotaro asked, puzzled.

“Be honest. When I returned to Japan to tell you I was pregnant, you were with someone, weren’t you?” Electra asked, carefully watching Jotaro with her brows furrowed.

Jotaro sighed. “Yes,” Jotaro admitted. “But at that time, you and I had gone our separate ways, and I didn’t think I would see you again.”

“But when we got back together, did you see her again?” Electra asked.

“No. I broke things off with him.” Jotaro said nonchalantly, not realizing what he said until he noticed Electra’s expression change.

“Him?” Electra said aloud.

     Silence fell between them. It felt as if time stood still, but the constant hum of Jotaro’s oxygen machine kept them in reality. Jotaro glanced away, feeling a sense of shame filling him. Star Platinum watched in silence, unbeknownst to Electra, as he stood on the opposite side of the hospital bed.

“Electra, I-” Jotaro started, but his sentence was cut off as she swung her arm to slap him across the face. Star Platinum lunged in, grasping her wrist firmly and preventing her palm from contacting his face.

“W-what the-!?” Electra stammered as she felt pressure on her wrist. She was dumbfounded by the seemingly invisible force preventing her.

“Star Platinum, don’t hurt her! Release her.” Jotaro commanded, frightened for her safety.

“…”

     Star Platinum dutifully obeyed, releasing the frightened and angry woman’s wrist. She pulled her hand back and held it near her protectively. Her eyes were wide in shock.

“That’s my stand, Star Platinum. He was protecting me.” Jotaro explained. “Electra, do-”

“I want a divorce.” Electra said suddenly, her voice shaky.

“What?” Jotaro asked, doubting what he had just heard.

“I can’t do this anymore.” Electra began to cry.

“Listen, I-” Jotaro started speaking, but froze when he watched Electra grasp her wedding ring and remove it from her finger. She placed it on the bedside table and turned to leave.

“I’m going home. Jolyne needs me.” Electra cried, refusing to look back at the wounded Joestar as she left.

“Electra!” Jotaro tried to call, but the pain in his side and throat made shouting nearly impossible. He coughed, the pain intense with each deep breath. “Damn it…” he muttered to himself, letting his weak body slump back down in his bed. He felt his heart sink in his chest as Electra’s footsteps faded away.

“…”

     Star Platinum gently placed his large hand around Jotaro’s cheek to soothe him. He looked at Jotaro knowingly, his eyes full of sorrow for him. He lifted Jotaro’s hat and placed a tender kiss on his forehead before placing the cap back on him. He joined Jotaro in the bed, looking content to be back by his user’s side and feel his warmth against his large body.

“What are you sorry for?” Jotaro asked. “I’m the one who’s sorry.” he said with his eyes feeling heavy as he looked down at the floor.

“…”

Chapter Text

     Once Jotaro’s condition stabilized in the hospital and he was ready to transfer for continued observation, he went against medical advice and left the hospital. Once outside, he glanced around at the familiar streets of Tokyo. Dozens of people passed by on the gray concrete sidewalks. Several small compact cars streamed through the congested streets. Star Platinum stood by his side, scanning the area for signs of danger.

     The chilly, early spring wind swept through Jotaro’s hair and rustled his long ivory jacket, which was still stained with blood from his attack. The clear, late afternoon sky allowed the sun’s rays to reach him, warming him as he stood. Jotaro recalled days like this. It reminded him of the beautiful cherry blossoms blooming throughout the region. The thought of the soft pink petals filling the parks reminded him of his now ex-wife. Star Platinum placed a hand on his shoulder.

“…”

Jotaro sighed. “Let’s go.” He said warily.

     Jotaro hailed a cab to make his trip less physically taxing, but he regretted his choice once he entered the taxi. The smell of tobacco from the driver’s cigarette filled his lungs. His hands trembled as he remembered the night he was attacked. A flood of unpleasant memories from years before followed. Star Platinum held him as he calmed himself.

Don’t lose it here, not now, Jotaro thought to himself.

“…”

     Eventually, Jotaro reached his destination. He exited the cab and stood facing a grand gate to a large residence. He pushed the door, which felt much heavier than he remembered. Star Platinum placed his large hand on the door, pushing it open effortlessly to allow Jotaro through. Jotaro nodded to acknowledge his stand’s gesture as he stepped through the gate and walked through the garden to reach the front door. Star Platinum knocked on the door twice as Jotaro waited with his hands in his pockets.

“…”

     The pair listened carefully. Spring songbirds warbled in the yard, and the distant sound of a truck driving by filled their ears. Jotaro was about to turn to leave when he heard footsteps across the wood floor in the manor. The large wooden door slid open. Holy stood in the doorway, her eyes puffy and irritated as she wiped them with her sleeve.

Holy gasped. “Jotaro!” she said with her arms stretched out to embrace him. “I missed you so much!” she mumbled into his chest as she began to cry.

Jotaro hesitated, but he stretched his arms around her to embrace her. “Good grief. I’m not worth crying over.”

“Oh, Jotaro. I’m so happy to see you. So much has happened, and-” Holy let go of her son to wipe her tears again. She examined Jotaro and a look of horror spread across her face. “What on earth happened to you!?” she said, covering her mouth in shock.

“I’m fine. I’ll tell you about it. Are you going to let me in?” Jotaro said cooly.

Holy glanced at Star Platinum, who returned a smile to her. “Yes, please come in.” Holy said as she stepped aside to let her son and his stand in.

     Jotaro sat at the kitchen table, expecting Holy to put a kettle on the stove to make tea. Instead, she placed a sake cup before Jotaro and one in front of Star Platinum. She filled their cups to the brim, spilling the hot sake over the side with shaky hands.

“It’s a bit early for drinks.” Jotaro commented as Star Platinum stared at the cup in silence.

“I don’t care. I’m having a bad day.” Holy said frustratedly.

“What’s going on?” Jotaro asked. “I’ve never seen you this upset.”

Holy sighed, collecting her thoughts before answering her son. “Your grandfather was up to no good years ago. I have a half-brother, and you have an uncle.” Holy explained.

“…”

     Jotaro sat in silence, still digesting the information. Holy raised her cup and downed it in one gulp. Tears flowed down her face as she stared at a wall in silence. Star Platinum watched her and followed her movements, raising his cup carefully with his large thumb and index finger. He drank it all in one sip. Jotaro felt the warmth of the alcohol hit him.

“Good grief. How is grandma taking this?” Jotaro asked.

“Not well.” Holy said, shaking her head. “Not well at all.”

“I’m sorry.” Jotaro said, not knowing what else to say.

“I just don’t understand how he could do that to us…” Holy said while dabbing her eyes with crumpled tissue paper at the table. “Mom kicked him out of the house. He’s coming here to visit, but I’m unsure how to feel about seeing him.” She said as she refilled her empty cup and Star Platinum’s.

She is finally realizing that her parents are flawed, Jotaro thought. I caught onto her immaturity and my father’s weak will early on.

     Jotaro examined Holy. Dense laugh lines sat above the corners of her mouth, and faint crow’s feet were around her eyes. Though she had aged since the last time Jotaro saw her years ago, time had been kind to her. Holy examined Jotaro as she took another sip of her sake.

“How is Jolyne? I’ve been dying to meet her.” Holy said, changing the subject. “And you still need to tell me what happened to you. You look terrible, Jotaro.” She said as her eyes fixed on the blood stain.

“Jolyne is fine.” Jotaro replied. “I arrived here a week ago, and a stand user attacked me. He caught me off-guard.” Jotaro explained, avoiding further details.

“Does Electra know what happened?” Holy explained.

“She didn’t believe me when I told her about stands and vampires.” Jotaro said before sipping his drink.

“I see. My friends didn’t believe me when I told them about what happened when I got ill. They said I must’ve hallucinated it all while I was sick.” Holy said sadly. “Maybe in time, she will understand.” She said hopefully.

“She left me.” Jotaro said flatly.

“…”

     Silence filled the room. Holy’s aquamarine eyes locked onto Jotaro’s. She looked for any sign of deceit, hoping it was only a cruel joke. Her son’s lifeless eyes appeared unchanged, and she fully absorbed the new information. Her eyes moved toward her cup, which she finished in a single swig.

Holy sighed. “When it rains, it pours.” She said sorrowfully.

Jotaro held his cup and downed the warm sake. “I’m sorry.” Jotaro apologized.

     Holy sat in silence. Clearly, the alcohol was hitting the small woman quite hard as she wiped her teary eyes. Her movements were becoming more unsteady by the minute.

“I don’t feel so good.” Holy stated, clutching her stomach.

“You should rest.” Jotaro asserted.

“And you should, too.” Holy said. “Stay as long as you want.” She said as she stood up and carefully shuffled to the master bedroom.

“…”

     Star Platinum glanced at Jotaro. Jotaro stared back at his stand as he leaned back in his seat. Star Platinum placed his full cup in front of Jotaro, who took it and finished it.

“Thanks.” Jotaro said, placing his crossed arms on the table and resting his head on them.

     The household was peaceful as the outdoor sounds were all muffled by the thick wooden walls of the manor. Jotaro could feel his eyes become heavy as he allowed his weary body to rest. Star Platinum carefully picked him up and carried him. Jotaro did not resist as Star Platinum carried him across the mansion to his old bedroom.

     The giant stand gently placed Jotaro on his old futon and removed his shoes and hat. Jotaro removed his jacket and reached for his blanket, holding it open so that Star Platinum would join him. The stand seemed happily surprised, and he gladly took his place in the bed with Jotaro, wrapping a large arm around the man. Jotaro fell into a dreamless sleep.

     Jotaro awoke in his darkened room. He could hear crickets chirping outside. He felt the warmth of his stand’s body pressed against him. This moment felt nostalgic to the Joestar. He remembered the final summer he spent at home before moving to Yokohama. Those days felt so carefree compared to the present days. Everything about his life felt so complicated: his education, family life, relationships, and past, which continued to haunt him.

“…”

     Jotaro felt Star Platinum squeeze him, pulling him closer. Though having his beloved stand so close to him, he couldn’t help but feel disgusted with himself. It had been years since the two had been apart, but Star Platinum didn’t seem to hold any resentment toward the Joestar.

Perhaps he doesn’t understand, Jotaro thought.

“Star Platinum, let’s go outside.” Jotaro said as he rose from the bed.

     Star Platinum accompanied Jotaro as they traveled to the garden, dutifully sliding the door open for the man. The pair sat on the stone bench, which had darkened over the years from being exposed to the elements. They gazed up at the starry sky above. Jotaro noticed the gap between them and closed it, scooting closer to his stand, who was pleased to be close to his user. Star Platinum took Jotaro’s hand into his. Their gaze returned to the night sky.

“…”

“Do you remember the first time we sat out here together?” Jotaro asked.

“..…”

     Jotaro heard a sliding door open and shut. He turned, expecting to see his mother. His heart sank when he saw his father instead.

“Give me a break.” Jotaro grumbled as he turned away.

“…” Star Platinum turned and watched Sadao approach them.

“Jotaro.” Sadao called. “It’s nice to see you.” He said as he approached. “Holy told me about what happened.”

“I’m not in the mood for a lecture.” Jotaro sighed.

“I’m not here to lecture you, son.” Sadao said as he stood beside Jotaro, glancing at the night sky. “I want you to know that I’m sorry.”

“I don’t want your pity, Sadao.” Jotaro said coldly.

“I’m not talking about that.” Sadao said, referring to his son’s impending divorce.

“Then what are you apologizing for, old man?” Jotaro asked.

Sadao fell silent as he carefully chose his following words. “I was not much of a father to you. I was not much of a man to emulate either.” Sadao said. “You were so different from the other children... Holy would tell me over the phone about all the fights you got into, including with children twice your size. I believed it was all my fault for being absent, but I still never did anything about it whenever I was around. I just didn’t know what to do.” Sadao sighed. “I believed it would eventually pass as you got older, and I would have time to spend with you as your father, but time kept slipping away, and I struggled to connect with you.” he explained. “Before I knew it, you were an adult, and I still felt like we were strangers living together.”

     Jotaro considered his father’s words as he gazed at the stars. The old shishi-odoshi in the garden continued its rhythm. Star Platinum watched Sadao as the man continued to share his thoughts.

“I worried for your future until I started to listen to your mother. I always thought she was delusional when she told me about your good character, but everything became clear to me the more I considered your reasons behind the violence.” Sadao explained. “You didn’t fight just anyone, but only those looking to make trouble.”

“Too many people walk around for too long without getting the beating they deserve.” Jotaro replied. “And too many innocent people get hurt from these types.”

“Your fighting spirit is unlike any I have seen before. I believe Holy when she told me about your stand power and battles in Egypt. I’m sorry I misjudged you, Jotaro.” Sadao apologized. “I can’t imagine how much pain you went through during such a journey at your age.”

     Jotaro thought about Kakyoin, Avdol, Polnareff, and Iggy. He knew his father would never truly understand what they had gone through, but the elder seemed genuine with his words. Jotaro couldn’t blame others who couldn’t see for not understanding, but it meant something to him when others couldn’t see but would still believe. Such a thing took an amount of trust that not many possessed.

     Kakyoin was correct when he said having a stand was an isolating experience. Only others with stands could truly understand, but many were, unfortunately, standing on the opposite side of the board. Jotaro could only wonder how many stand users had a connection with their stand beyond using them for fighting or personal gain. Could he be the only one?

“I hope that you can forgive an old fool like me.” Sadao said finally. “Just know you are always welcome here, and I will always be there if you need anything. I’m very proud of the man you’ve become.” He said with a bow.

“…”

“Thanks, Dad.” Jotaro said cooly, still focused on the sky.

     Sadao smiled, knowing that it was Jotaro’s way of saying, ‘I forgive you.’ Sadao returned to the house. Jotaro felt a weight lift from his shoulders, to his surprise. Star Platinum glanced at him. Jotaro’s eyes met his gaze.

“Don’t give me that look. I had to let all that go at some point.” Jotaro spoke, wincing as he stretched, his aching ribs still healing from his injuries.

“…” Star Platinum looked at Jotaro expectedly.

“I know, I know.” Jotaro sighed. “I have more work to do.” He said as he gazed at the starry night sky, watching as an airplane was traveling past. “Once I regain my strength, we’re going to Morioh. There, we’ll finally make some progress in investigating the arrows.”

“…”

Jotaro glanced at his stand. “I made a lot of mistakes. I’m sorry I hurt you.” Jotaro said wholeheartedly. “Being apart from you for all those years was awful… and I- hey!”

     Star Platinum suddenly picked up Jotaro and placed him on his lap, facing him. The stand pulled Jotaro close but was mindful of his still-healing fractures. He closed his eyes as he passionately kissed the Joestar. Jotaro closed his eyes as he kissed Star Platinum, his heart fluttering and warmth flooding his cheeks.

I don’t deserve your love, Jotaro thought. But I will fight to make everything right.

The End

A/N: Thank you for reading! I have one final part planned to conclude this series. Speaking of, apologies for not making this into a proper series format. I was a noob when I started, and I didn’t think I would end up writing so much! 😂 I am working on a standalone Jotaro/Kakyoin story as well, so stay tuned for that if you like the pairing. 💕