Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Roll... Roll... Bump... Roll...

On his way to his house, Kazuha finds himself stopping at the park nearby.

"Oh, those weren't there before," he says looking at the multiple food trucks parked in various spots around the park.Though he wasn't hungry, he decides to walk through and look. At the very least he could buy a drink or something.

He stops at one that sticks out to him and looks at the expansive menu. Even the drinks had their own equally expansive menu.

So many choices.

"Having trouble deciding?"

"Hm?" Kazuha looks next to him and finds a man about his height with red hair a pretty green eyes.

"A little. Any suggestions?"

The man smiles. "Let's see... From the look of things, you are just returning from a trip," he looks down at Kazuha's suitcase. "And will be walking for a bit more, so something light and portable... Perhaps a milkshake or smoothie?

He's good. Kazuha nods.

"Then I'll pick something that I will think you will like," he says before going to the window to order.

Meanwhile, Kazuha watches and takes notice of some things. Like how his hair is tied with a... rope? Interesting. His yellow top is open in the back, and Kazuha finds his eyes trailing down said back; stopping and shaking his head when he reaches the top of his black pants. He opens his eyes just as the man is coming back holding a cup with a straw, a strange looking crepe, and a small bottle of water.

He holds the cup out to Kazuha. "Here, I got you a cherry smoothie, um... can I get your name?"

Kazuha takes the cup. "Kaedehara Kazuha."

"Nice to meet you, Kazuha. I'm Shikanoin Heizou."

Kazuha repeats the name in his mind, then lets go of his suitcase handle to reach into his pocket to grab his wallet-

"It's on me."

"...Okay." Kazuha grabs his suitcase. "Thank-you," he says, and turns to leave, but pauses when Heizou takes a step in the same direction.

"Oh, are you going this way too?" Heizou gestures to the street Kazuha was previously on.

"Yes."

"Guess we can keep each other company a bit more, huh?"

Kazuha took a long sip of his smoothie and considered.

"Sure, that's fine," Kazuha says then starts walking and not ignoring how Heizou's eyes lit up at his response.

It was cute.

-

-

-

They walk in silence for a bit. Well not really. Kazuha can hear how much Heizou is enjoying his crepe.

Speaking of...

"Heizou?"

"Yeah?"

"Is that fried shrimp sticking out of your crepe?"

"Yep! I frequent that food truck and this crepe is a new menu item, and I love fried food, so I had to try it."

"Is it good?"

"It is! Their crepe goes well with the shrimp batter and sauce. It's delicious!"

Kazuha laughs.

"What's so funny?"

"You remind me of someone I met Liyue, that's all."

"Is that where you're returning from?"

Kazuha shakes his head. "No. Sumeru."

"Ah, I have seen pictures. I hope to visit one day. Liyue as well."

"You should. I enjoyed my time in both."

-

-

-

Kazuha and Heizou finish their food; throwing their trash away before stopping at a four-way.

Heizou points straight ahead. "I'm going this way."

Kazuha points to his right, and Heizou looks at the road leading through the woods.

"Ahhhh too bad. I wanted to walk with you a bit longer~"

Kazuha hums, gripping his suitcase handle harder.

"Something tells me you have something you want to say or ask."

"I still want to pay you back."

"Seriously?"

Kazuha nods.

"Hmmm... Fine if you're insisting then... Can I give you a kiss goodnight?"

"Huh?!" Kazuha's face tints pink.

"That's what I want." A pause. "If you are okay with it, I mean," he said blushing a bit.

There he goes being cute again.

"I'm okay with it. Is that all you really want?"

Heizou nods as he steps closer to Kazuha and Kazuha closes his eyes; taking note of how nice he smells, but can't pinpoint what it is.

He then feels Heizou's lips on his... cheek? 

His eyes open. That's it? Then again, a kiss does not have to be just on the lips. What was he expecting?

"Goodnight, Kazuha~" Heizou says softly, yet flirtatious with a hint of teasing before heading on his way.

Ah, he was expecting Kazuha's reaction.

And Kazuha can't help but chuckle. 

He lifts a hand to the spot Heizou kissed and smiles softly.

"Goodnight, Heizou."

Chapter Text

As Kazuha sits on a bench, he wonders about fated and destined encounters. Why? Most likely because he spots Heizou, the man he met a few nights ago, walking up the sidewalk.

And though he knows that people living in the same place can run into each other, he can't help but feel that there was something special about their encounter.

Heizou didn't notice him as he was seriously focused on his phone, but still aware based on his steps.

Kazuha waits for him to get closer and-

"Heizou.''

Heizou stops, looks up and smiles; putting his phone away as he walks closer to Kazuha.

"Hey!"

Kazuha smiled back. "Good afternoon. It's nice to see you again.''

"Same here. So what brings you into the city?" He spots the bags next to Kazuha. "Ah, I see. You've been shopping."

"Yes, but now I'm relaxing. May I ask what you're up to?"

"Oh, since it's my lunch break, I wanted to check out this new place the just opened, but it was extremely crowded."

"You decided to go... during lunch?"

Heizou shrugs. "Thought I might get lucky."

"Couldn't you wait until things slow down, or go after work?"

"They have opening week specials. Also, by the time I get off the place is closed."

"So you were going somewhere else for lunch?"

"Kind of..."

Kazuha tilts his head. "Hm?"

"I was going to just grab something at the convenience store then take my time heading back." He grins. "But it looks like my plans have changed."

Kazuha can see where this is going.

"Have they now?"

"Depends if you got things to do after this."

Normally during this time of day, Kazuha would be taking his afternoon nap, but since he is already out...

"What do you want to do?"

"Treat you to lunch at one of my favorite restaurants."

Again... Is this going to be a regular thing between them? Only one way to find out.

"Sure. I'm free."

.....................................

The restaurant Heizou brings Kazuha to is nice. The yellow and red decor gave it warm feeling and the centerpiece was a giant faux tree with lights on it.

Heizou taps Kazuha on the shoulder.

"Yes?"

"You can go up to the second floor and find us a table while I order us some food."

"Okay,'' Kazuha says then heads up the steps.

On the second floor, Kazuha takes notice of the pitched roof windows and instantly picks  the table in front of it. He sets his bags to the side before sitting down and gazing out the window at the autumn scenery.

After a few minutes, Heizou shows up with a tray in his hands.

"Nice view, right?" Heizou says placing the tray on the table then taking the seat across from Kazuha.

Kazuha looks on the tray to see a plate of fries and two drinks.

"As for the drinks..." Heizou places one of the glasses in front of Kazuha. "An iced tea for you and iced coffee for me,'' he says grabbing the other glass.

Kazuha picks up a fry and takes a bite.

Where to start...

"Feel free to ask me anything,'' Heizou say as he pours a small cup of creamer into his coffee.

Kazuha decides to start with a basic question.

"What do you do for a living?"

''I'm a detective,'' Heizou answers; grabbing a few fries after.

Makes sense. Kazuha looks at Heizou's outfit. A choker, a white short-sleeved (open) button-up, with a black shirt underneath and brown pants. Hmmm... It's no doubt he looks good, but he doesn't look like- No the fact that he doesn't makes the most-

Heizou chuckles; bringing Kazuha back.

"You were thinking how I don't look like a detective.''

Not surprised, Kazuha just picks up his glass and drinks some tea before speaking again.

''Part of, but not my full thought.''

Heizou puts a elbow on the table and rests his head in his hand and smiled. ''Now I'm curious. Please tell me your full thoughts.''

And Kazuha does.

''You're someone with the aura of freedom around him. You can't sit still, so the attire expected of a detective wouldn't work. Too stuffy. Too restrictive. You have to move. That is what I think , but if I got any of that wrong or offended you, I apologize.''

The smile on Heizou's face was gone, but his eyes were wide as if amazed by what Kazuha just said.

''Heizou?"

Heizou blinks then straightens up. ''You didn't, but I would like to add that I will wear those stuffy, restrictive clothes if I have to."

"Understandable,'' Kazuha responds with.

"What about you? Traveling a lot isn't exactly cheap."

"I work for a bit until I save enough."

"So you've had several jobs?"

Kazuha nods.

"I bet you've got some stories."

"I'm sure you do as well.''

"Man, do I!" Heizou goes for another fry, looking down when he feels the plate. "Looks like we finished them."

"We did,'' Kazuha says, though he's sure Heizou ate most of them.

Heizou downs the rest of his coffee. "I know you weren't here long... but what do do you think of the restaurant?''

''I like it and like you mentioned earlier, the view from up here is nice as well as the restaurant overall."

That seemed to make Heizou happy. "That means I can bring you here for lunch more often.''

Not a question, but Kazuha decides to answer like it was one. "Yes, but it doesn't have to be just lunch or here for that matter.''

Heizou gives a quick nod. "Noted, but I think before we start making plans...'' Heizou takes out his phone. '' Can I have your number?"

Now it was Kazuha who had wide eyes, but they softened and he takes out his phone.

They exchange numbers.

Once Heizou finishes typing Kazuha's name, he lets out a laugh."Heh.''

Kazuha looks up from his phone. "What is it?"

"We're already on a first name basis."

"I see no reason not to be."

"You're right, but now that I think about it more, when we first met, you were pretty quick to trust me. No guard up or anything.''

"You weren't a threat. Otherwise we wouldn't be sitting here having this conversation."

"True, true.'' A pause "It's the same for me. Amongst other things...''

"Elaborate?" Kazuha asked now curious.

"Sure I-" Heizou's phone starts buzzing. "Oof. That's my start heading back to work alarm." Heizou gets up, gathers their dishes and puts them on the tray. "We'll continue this another time. See ya Kazuha. Call me anytime," he says with wink.

"You too." Kazuha says and watches Heizou until he's out of sight, then looks back at his phone.

"Now to find a picture."

Chapter Text

"Pretty. Glad I decided to walk,'' Heizou says after snapping a picture of the scenery.

He was currently on his way to Kazuha's house, and honestly he was pretty excited as he wasn't expecting him to call him so soon let alone invite him to his home.

<----- A few days ago...

Heizou hums a tune on his way to the kitchen as he towel dries his hair.

He goes into the cabinet to grab a mug and pour himself some coffee, but before he could take a sip, his phone rings. He walks over to where it's charging on the counter and sees Kazuha's name lit up on the screen.

"Also a early riser, huh?'' He picks up the phone an answers. ''Hello?''

''Good morning Heizou. Is this a good time? I don't know your morning routine so...''

Heizou leans against the counter. '' I was just about to have a cup of coffee before I finish getting ready for work.''

"Oh, so it's not a good time. My apologies.''

Heizou laughs. ''What are you apologizing for? I told you you can call me anytime, right?"

Kazuha hums. ''You did... In that case I would like to ask for your help.''

"Help? With what? Like housework or something?'' Heizou remembers spotting some cleaning supplies in the bags Kazuha had with him.

''I suppose you can call it housework.''

Heizou doesn't take long to give him an answer. "I'm only off on the weekends. Is that okay?"

"I was aiming for the weekend, so yes.''

Great. I'll come over on Saturday.''

"Thank you. I'll text you my address.''

''Got it.''

"Well then, have a good day.''

"You too, Kazuha.''

----->

Heizou feels like there's a deeper reason for being asked to come over other than to help with housework.

Heizou continues walking and can see that he's getting close based on the directions Kazuha gave him. He goes back to his phone.

"Should let him know I'm almost there.''

He scrolls to Kazuha's name and presses call.

...

"Hello, Heizou?" Kazuha answers.

"Hey, Kazuha. I just wanted to let you know I'm nearby.''

"Okay. I left the gate unlocked for you, so you can come right up to the front door.''

"Alright. See you soon.'' Heizou hangs up, puts his phone away and continues on.

"Let's see... The furthest near a big tree with a birdhouse hanging on a branch... Ah there it is. Heizou stops in front of a big house.

"Wow,'' Heizou says as he stares at the house, but at the same time not that shocked. He goes to the gate, opens it and walks up to the front door.

He rings the doorbell, and after a moment Kazuha opens the door.

"Welcome,'' Kazuha says looking at Heizou up and down.

Heizou grins. ''Notice my tracksuit?'' he lifts his arms. "It's not 'new' new, but this is my first time wearing it since I bought it. What do you think?"

Kazuha looks him over again. "Black and white with a bit of yellow... It's nice. I like it, '' he says stepping aside to let Heizou in.

"Oh, glad you think so too. Thanks for having me,'' Heizou says walking inside and taking off his shoes.

After, Kazuha leads Heizou to the living room, where he instantly starts looking around.

Briefly he looks at the open kitchen on one side then turns his attention back to the living room. In it was the usual living room furniture. On the cream colored walls were various pictures, and high up on the walls were strings of maple leaves that went around the living room. Straight ahead was a red rug, with a couple of boxes on it, in front of double doors that leads to the backyard.

Actually the more Heizou looks, he can see that Kazuha has a little bit of an autumn theme going on just by looking at the colors and decorations.

"Heizou?'' Kazuha calls bringing him back.

"What's up?''

Kazuha chuckles. "I didn't mean to interrupt, but I think we should get started.''

"Yeah,'' Heizou says and takes off his jacket.

"Oh, right,'' Kazuha goes to pick up a basket he had set on the dining table earlier and brings it over to Heizou. "Put your belongings in here.''

Heizou takes the basket and puts it on the coffee table. He takes his jacket (which he folded) and placed it in the basket first, then his phone, keys, wallet, and last, his badge. He then looks around again.

Now to see if my hunch is correct.

"Um, so where is everything?"

"'Everything?''' Kazuha asked as he picked up the basket.

''The cleaning supplies. I'm supposed to be helping with housework. right?''

Kazuha sighs. "Heizou... While I did say I wanted your help, I did not mean with cleaning which I took care of before you got here. What I wanted your help with was with organizing and storing some photos from my travels.''

Yep, just like he thought, and he even got an answer about the boxes. Now back to Kazuha. "Ohhh. So that's what you wanted help with. Man, I guess I was off the mark.''

Kazuha shook his head. "It's my fault for not outright saying it, but now that that's cleared up, come with me.''

Kazuha leads Heizou through a doorway and into the hallway. They walk to one end and Kazuha opens the door located there.

"This is my bedroom,'' Kazuha walks in while Heizou stays in the doorway and quickly glances around the room. He made note that Kazuha's interest in maple leaves extends to the bedroom as well.

"I'll set the basket on the bed here where you can easily find it.''

Heizou nods and then they exit the bedroom. Before returning to the living room, Kazuha points out what the other rooms were: An office, a second bedroom mostly used for storage, a closet, and on the other end of the hall, the bathroom.

Back in the living room, Kazuha takes a seat on the rug and pats the spot next to him. After Heizou sits down, Kazuha grabs the boxes and empties them. A pile of photos and a few photo albums were laid out.

"We'll go through the photos and I'll put them in their respective albums.''

"Got it,'' Heizou says and picks up the first photo; which was of Kazuha and a woman with an eye patch standing in front of what seems to be a yacht.

"That's Beidou. I've accompanied her on several of her business trips.''

Heizou hands the photo to Kazuha. "Is that yacht hers?"

"It's one of her many boats,'' Kazuha says easily as he places the photo in the album.

Heizou picks up the next photo. In it Kazuha was sitting at a table with a blonde who was drawing, an amber-eyed young man reading, and a guy in green holding a wine glass.

"Albedo, Xingqiu, and Venti. That photo was taken in Inazuma,'' Kazuha says taking the photo.

"What was the occasion?"

"Hm, a book signing and poetry event.''

"Riiiight,'' Heizou could tell Kazuha was keeping something from him, but he decides to put it aside for now and moved on to the next photo.

Kazuha was sitting on a stage next to a young woman holding a guitar, a woman in a witch hat, and a girl with blonde hair and a crow on her shoulder.

"Xinyan, Mona, and Fischl. A summer vacation of sorts while I was in Mondstadt. Vent was there as well, but he left before the photo was taken.''

Looks fun. Heizou thought. He really should start using his vacation days.

Anyway, on to the next photo which looks to takes place in spring and Heizou actually recognizes everyone in the photo.

"Wow, you're acquainted with the Kamisato's, Thoma, Gorou, and Miss Sangonomiya?''

Kazuha took the photo and looked at it fondly. "Yes, good friends who were- and still are there for me,'' Kazuha placed the photo in the album. "Through the good moments, bad moments, sad moments, and the tragic moments.''

''Tragic?'' Heizou quickly pursed his lips. He did not mean to say that out loud.

"When my family and best friend passed away."

Sting. Heizou's eyes go wide.

"What's with that look, Heizou? I simply answered your question.''

Why is he so calm? "I know. I just wasn't expecting you to.'' Heizou averts his eyes to the pile of photos. Then he realizes-

"I've already put away their photos.''

"Um..."

Kazuha sighs. "Apologies, Heizou, but I don't feel like talking about them right now.'' Heizou tenses. "Ah, but please do not take what I just said to mean that I won't because I will. Just not... now.''

Relieved, Heizou smiles softly. "Whenever you're ready.''

Kazuha smiles back equally soft. "Shall we continue?"

Heizou nods and grabs the next photo. Kazuha was on a couch playing video games with a grumpy looking blue head.

"That's Scara. I stayed with him during my time in Sumeru. His aunt Nahida took that photo.''

"Hmm...'' Heizou felt something. Not exactly unease, but something close.

Kazuha plucks the photo from Heizou.

"The type to disappear in the blink of an eye. A bitterness to his words that hides his pain.''

"How did you two meet?"

"At a coffee shop while waiting for my order. When they called my name, he approached me saying he recognized my last name and we ended up talking. Apparently, he knew one of my relatives and one thing lead to another.''

"Wait, is he from Inazuma?"

"Yes, but he did not have the best of times here and I would like to leave it at that."

"Understood,'' Heizou said picking up the next photo and he had to do a double take. Kazuha was in an over the top pose while holding a card. Next to him was a girl in pigtails, on the other side was a guy with light blue hair, and in front crouching was a guy with white hair. The three were in equally over the top poses.

"From an Genius Invokation tournament I ended up in. That's Hu Tao, Chongyun, and Cyno.''

"Oh that card game- huh? What's this attached to it?" Heizou unclips what looks to be a card. "Why do you have a card of yourself?"

"Oh, Al- Calx does art for the game... when he feels like it. We know each other so he made one of me.''

"Kazuha...''

"What's wrong? Do you want a card of yourself?" Kazuha gets closer. "I could ask if you want.''

Are his eyes sparkling? 

"Ha,ha. That's fine and all, but would he really design a card of a stranger who is not familiar with the game?"

Kazuha backs away and curls a finger under his chin in thought. "I suppose you're right. I'll make some time to teach you then I'll introduce you to Calx.''

Does he want a card of me that badly?

"Pfft,'' Heizou couldn't contain his laughter.

Kazuha looks up. "What's funny?''

"You just look so serious,'' Heizou says still laughing a little.

Kazuha blushes and turns back to the photos. "...let's finish up we're almost done.''

Aww... Heizou thinks before they finish going through the photos; which were mostly of buildings, plants, animals, random objects, and Kazuha by himself. Heizou spent extra seconds looking at the ones of Kazuha.

Kazuha closes the last album and put it and the rest of them back into the box.

"Done?" Heizou asked.

"Done,'' Kazuha responded then moved the boxes off the rug.

And, Heizou without a second thought, falls back onto the rug; his arms and legs spread out like a starfish.

Kazuha smiles. "Good grief,'' he says and gets up to slide the doors open. A breeze blows in after.

"That feels nice.''

Kazuha looks down at Heizou. His eyes were closed and his hair was slightly moving.

Yes, it is nice. He thought.

"Heizou?"

"Hm?"

"Would you like a snack?"

Heizou opens his eye and looks up at Kazuha. "You can take a break too, y'know?''

"I know. I'll be right back,'' Kazuha turns, and walks over to the kitchen.

Heizou closes his eyes and listens to Kazuha mess around in the kitchen; not opening them until he hears Kazuha coming back. He sits up just as Kazuha sits down and places a tray between them. On it was plate with a sandwich cut in half and two glasses.

"Cucumber and herb cream cheese sandwich.''

Heizou picks up one of the glasses and looks at the brown substance at the bottom.

"Plum syrup in soda water. Good to drink after being active,'' Kazuha said and picks up one half of the sandwich. 

Heizou gives it a taste. "Wow that's good! This might be perfect to drink after my workouts.''

"Would you like to take some home with you?" Kazuha asked after finishing his sandwich.

"If you have enough."

Kazuha picks up his glass. "I do,'' he says and takes a drink.

"Then yes!'' Heizou says picking up his half of the sandwich and taking a big bite. "This is good too.''

"Thank you.''

----

After eating, Heizou and Kazuha sit in silence, staring outside. A while passes and Heizou decides to ask Kazuha something that's been on his mind.

He leans back on his hands. "Hey, Kazuha?"

"Yes?"

"Where are you going next? What comes to mind after asking you that?"

Kazuha continues looking outside. "Why aren't you asking me your most important question?"

"Important?"

"When are you leaving? How long are you staying in Inazuma?"

Heizou chuckles. "Kazuha, are you a mind reader?"

"I am not, but back to your question. Since I will be in Inazuma for the time being, I haven't decided yet.''

It's as Heizou thought. Kazuha does not stay in Inazuma long whenever he returns. Now the question is--

"Why?"

The answer to that was so obvious that even Kazuha made a face, but Heizou needed confirmation, and when Kazuha finally turned and locked eyes with him--

"Because my plans have changed.''

He got it.

Heizou hums. "My intuition tells me that I'm responsible.''

Kazuha just smiles.

"Is it bad that I'm not sorry?''

Kazuha shakes his head. "Not at all.''

A long pause. A gust of wind blows again bringing leaves along with it.

Heizou stands up. "The sun's setting. I'll take that as a signal for me to start heading back.''

Heizou stretches while Kazuha gets up and grabs the tray. "I'll put these away and get your syrup.''

"I'm gonna go get my things then.''

---

Heizou returns after a few minutes with his jacket on, and Kazuha, holding a small bag walks Heizou to the door and waits while he puts on his shoes. Once done, Heizou steps closer to Kazuha.

"I had a good time today."

"You did? Some might find organizing pictures boring.''

Heizou places a hand on his hip. "That might be the case for some but not me. I am a detective after all.''

Kazuha laughs. "That's true.''

"Also... I got to see your house and learn a little more about you.'' Heizou whispered the latter part of that with pink on his cheeks.

Kazuha eyes soften and he holds out the bag to Heizou. "I'm glad to hear that.''

Heizou grabs the bag but Kazuha doesn't let go.

"Kazuha?"

"Heizou next weekend... Would you like to have dinner together?"

Heizou tilts his head. "Here?"

"Here.''

More ways for us to become close, huh?

"Yes.''

Kazuha lets go of the bag. "Then I'll see you next weekend.''

Heizou opens the door. "Yeah. I'll text you.''

"Okay, see you.''

"See you.''

--

After the door closed, Heizou walked until he was outside the fence and leaned against it.''

He ran his fingers through his hair.

"Man alive, I need to step up my game."

Chapter Text

Heizou hums in thought as he swirls the last bit of whiskey in his glass before finishing it.

He sets the glass down then voices what's on his mind.

"Shinobu, what do you think about rubies?

Shinobu pauses what she's doing. "Huh?'' Why are you asking that? Are you drunk already?''

"After one glass? Speaking of...'' He taps the glass. "Can I have another without ice, please?''

Shinobu sighs and pours him another glass and slides it to him, then leans back against the shelf behind her and crosses her arms waiting for Heizou to continue.

Which he does after taking a sip. "This guy I'm interested in has these pretty red eyes that remind me of rubies.''

"Was he that good?"

"I haven't slept with him,'' he had to stop himself from saying 'yet'.

"Wait. Seriously?" Surprised, Shinobu uncrosses her arms and is back at the counter. "Start from the begining.''

Heizou recounts his interactions with Kazuha to Shinobu.

-

"So you basically fell for the guy after one night, got it.''

"I wouldn't go that far,'' he says after finishing his second glass. "Another, please.''

''But he's not one of those random guys you let go of after one night,'' Shinobu says as she fills another glass.

"Maybe.''

She slides the glass to Heizou. "That's a first.''

True. Heizou has said more than once that he doesn't have time for long-term romantic relationships.

But Kazuha was different, though. He felt something when he first met him and continued to feel that something everytime they're together.

"Things change, Shinobu.''

"Clearly. So what's next for you two?"

"We're having dinner together on Saturday.''

"So your fourth date?"

"Fourth? Date?''

"Don't play dumb,'' Shinobu huffs. "Also wipe that smile off your face.''

Was he smiling? Heizou breathes out a laugh. "Even if I did see them as dates, what matters more is whether or not Kazuha sees them as dates. I'll bring it up on Saturday and if he doesn't mind then we'll go from there.

Shinobu sighs again. "All I can say is good luck. This is all kind of new to you after all.''

Heizou picks up his glass. "It is, Heizou says quietly, and drinks his whiskey in one go; slamming (not too hard) the glass down and hissing at the burn.

Once it passes, he notices something.

"I can hear myself talk, nor was our conversation interrupted.'' 

"You're just now realizing that? Well you did have more important things on your mind. Anyway, it's because you're here during one of the rare times Itto and company is not.''

"That's it. So where is he?"

"Out helping his buddies somewhere.''

"Hopefully something I will not need to get involved in?"

"Can't promise that. No matter the situation.''

Heizou laughs then looks at the clock on the wall and gets up. "I should get going. Thanks for lending an ear as usual, Shinobu,'' he says taking out his wallet.

"Anytime.''

After paying for his drinks, Heizou grabs his jacket and starts putting it on. "Oh yeah. I'll probably be back before my dinner with Kazuha to purchase a bottle of- I'm thinking beer to bring as a gift.''

"You just wan't a discount,'' Shinobu says gathering Heizou's glasses. ''But I'll think about it.''

Heizou smiles, not denying it. He just tells Shinobu 'good night' before leaving the bar.

---

As soon as Heizou stepped outside the bar, he's hit with cold winter air. He zips up his jacket, taking a moment to adjust before walking.

And as he's walking, he looks at all the places he could bring Kazuha to.

It doesn't have to be just lunch or here for that matter.

"Hmmm..." He knows that he doesn't have to take him to only restaurants and cafes, buuuut....

He turns a corner and ends up in the public garden not too far from his building.

"Ah.''

He intended to go the longer way to his building, but this was good since he often comes here to organize his thoughts. Especially when it's empty like it is tonight.

He goes to sit down at his usual spot which was on a bench under a tree covered with mostly yellow leaves.

Relaxed, he looks around at all the plants, flowers, and trees.

"I bet Kazuha would enjoy walking through here.''

Moments after saying that, the wind stirs hard enough to blow some of the leaves off the trees. Heizou looks up mesmerized reaching out to grab one of the falling leaves. He stares at it blankly until an idea strikes him.

He takes out his phone, snaps a picture of himself holding the leaf and sends it to Kazuha along with a message.

"I wonder how he'll react to it.

................................

Kazuha was fixing himself a mug of hot milk with honey when he hears the video call notification coming from his laptop.

"Ah, that must be Beidou.''

He walks over to the dining table where his phone and laptop are and sits down placing his mug to side to let it cool down a bit.

He accepts the call.

"Hey Kazuha!" Beidou shouts.

Kazuha could see she's on the couch in her living room. "Hello, Beidou. I see you're back in Liyue a week early.''

"Yeah, well Ningguang convinced me to come back and help her pick out an outfit for some big event she got invited to, but don't worry my business was already done.''

Convinced... Kazuha picks up his mug and gave it a stir before taking a sip. "How is Lady Ningguang?"

"Fine, business as usual, but enough about her. Tell me what's been going on with you.

Kazuha sat his mug down. "Okay.''

He spends a good bit talking about his time in Sumeru and continues; telling her about Heizou as well as his plans to stay in Inazuma which, surprisingly, wasn't what she was curious about.

"So this Shikanoin...''

Kazuha picks up his mug again. "Yes?''

"You seem fond of him.''

Did he? "I am."

Beidou leans back against the rest. "Heh. Seems like you found someone interesting to love.''

Kazuha lowers his head looking into his mug. "... Love feels like... It's too soon. At least until we know a little more about each other.'' A pause. "For now though, I will say I like him... a lot."

Beidou nods in understanding. "I get it. Boy, do I get it.''

"I suppose.''

"I'm not going to press you about him too much, but if you like him, then I like him. Especially a fellow fried food lover.''

"I knew you'd take notice of that.''

Beidou laughs out loud. ''Well, when you're ready for us to meet, let's go somewhere with great food and drinks!''

Kazuha laughs softly. "I don't think he would say no to that.''

[buzz] [buzz] Kazuha's phone vibrated. He looks over to see who it is.

Heizou He says in his mind clearly not realizing he was smiling.

"Is that him?'' Beidou asked.

Kazuha nods. "Yeah.''

"I'll let you go, then.''

"Oh. Okay. Good night Beidou.''

"Night, Kazuha.''

---

Kazuha closes the window then picks up his phone and opens the message.

Heizou: A lovely night don't you think?

"???'' Kazuha was confused until he saw the picture attached to the message.

It was of Heizou holding a yellow leaf up to his (slightly pink) cheek.

Kazuha sighs almost dreamily. "Why are you so cute, Heizou?"

He saves the picture. "Looks like I have picture to use for Heizou's calls and messages,'' he says, and is about to set it up when he second guesses himself.

"Then again, its my first picture of Heizou. I should use it for something a little more special.''

So he decides to make the picture his wallpaper.

"Much better,'' he says before locking his phone.

Chapter Text

[Ding dong] [Ding dong] [Ding dong]

Kazuha looks up from the stove and turns it off before walking over to answer the door.

"Good evening, Heizou,'' he says after answering the door.

"Hey, Kazuha! I'm here for our dinner date."

Kazuha chuckles. "I can see that.''

"..."

Heizou stared at him intently as if he was waiting for something.

Kazuha tilts his head, puzzled. "Is there something on my face?"

Heizou snaps out of it, shaking his head as a response. He hands Kazuha the bag he was holding. "I didn't want to show up empty handed,'' he says and walks inside.

"Thank you.''

After removing his jacket and shoes, Heizou walks with Kazuha into the living room.

"Something smells good,'' Heizou says and looks at Kazuha. "What's on the menu tonight?''

"Something simple. Grilled fish and rice,'' Kazuha says opening the bag.

"Sounds good.''

Kazuha pulls out the bottle. "Oh... beer.''

"Shoot. Do you not drink?"

Kazuha looks at Heizou who has his palm on his face.

"I knew I should've asked when you called to see if I was allergic to anything.''

"Heizou, that's not-''

"It's fine.'' ''I'll take responsibility and drink it.'' Heizou turns away. "I'm going to go use your bathroom.''

Kazuha could see that Heizou needed to calm himself, so he goes along with him for now. "Do you remember where it is?''

"Yeah. Opposite end of the hall, right?" Heizou says pointing in said direction while still turned away.

"Right,'' Kazuha says and Heizou quickly walks away. He waits until he hears the bathroom door shut before going back into the kitchen.

He places the beer in the fridge then goes back to the stove and turns the heat on.

"Now where was I?"

- - -

Twenty minutes later, Kazuha was done cooking.

Meanwhile, Heizou hasn't returned yet; which Kazuha was aware of. He had heard him leave the bathroom and most likely ended up in his office so he let hm be. But dinner was ready now, so he goes to get him.

The office door was open and Kazuha peaks in to see Heizou looking at his copy of A Legend of Sword.

"Heizou?"

Heizou jumped. "Kazuha... Hey.''

Kazuha walks in. "Hello. I was wondering what was taking so long, but now I see,'' he says gesturing to the book. "A thank you from the author after helping him.''

"That explains why it's autographed.''

"Would you like to borrow it? Though I haven't had the chance to read it myself yet.''

"Maybe after you've read it.''

"Okay. Shall we head back? Dinner is ready.''

Heizou places the book back. ''Yeah, let's go! I'm starving.''

-

-

-

Back in the main area, Kazuha goes back into the kitchen, while Heizou takes a seat at the dining table.

"I'll be just a moment."

"Take your time.''

Kazuha fixes their plates and brings them to the table. Heizou's eyes light up when Kazuha sets the plate down in front of him.

"Looks so good. What are these shaped like maple leaves?''

"Chips made with potatoes and beets,'' Kazuha says on his way back to the kitchen to grab their drinks and glasses.

"I got to get a picture of this,'' Heizou says taking out his phone and taking a picture of his meal then setting it to the side as Kazuha returns to the table.

Kazuha sets down a glass pitcher, the bottle of beer and three glasses before sitting down across from Heizou.

"You're drinking water?"

Kazuha fills his glass. "With lemon, yes. I think water will be good tonight.''

"??? Well I'm going to dig in,'' Heizou says and picks up his chopsticks.

"Please go ahead.''

Kazuha watches as Heizou parts his chopsticks then breaks off a piece of the fish and takes a bite.

And Kazuha swears he saw stars in his eyes.

"Delicious!" Heizou exclaims. He then picks up one of the chips and bites it. "Ah~'' Next he tastes the rice and more satisfied sounds came out.

"Is it good , Heizou?" Kazuha asked, teasing.

Heizou nods as he continues eating.

"That's good.'' Kazuha picks up the bottle of beer and fills Heizou's glass, and Heizou grabs it, drinking half of it.

"Everything's delicious,'' Heizou breathes out.

After hearing and seeing the positive reactions from Heizou, Kazuha picks up his chopsticks and starts eating.

---

As they continue eating, Kazuha decides to ask Heizou about his work all the while watching him stick to his word about finishing the bottle of beer.

-

"So anyway...'' Heizou starts, as he fills his glass (which he took over from Kazuha to his disappointment). "The guy really thought he could escape my eye by putting on a hat and running into a crowd.''

"Sounds like that would make him stick out more.''

"It did.'' Heizou downs the glass. ''The hat was a bright color. I was stunned for a good second before jumping out the window and going after him,'' Heizou says pouring the rest of the beer into his glass.

So that bottle held five glasses... "That sounds exciting, but please be careful.''

"I am. I am, Heizou says finishing the last of the beer. "Hah~''

Kazuha stared at his flushed face and half-lidded eyes.

Definitely drunk.

"Kazuhaaaaa...''

Kazuha smiled. "Yes?''

"Thanx for having me over again. "I'm enjoying our date.''

"Me too.''

Heizou frowns. "Whyyyyy...''

"'Why' what?"

"Why are you not reacting to me calling this a date?"

"Should I?"

"I don't- Yes? Maybe? Dates are mostly considered romantic so I wanted to know if it bothers you.''

So that's why...  "It doesn't.''

"Mmm...''

Kazuha pours some lemon water in the extra glass he brought and puts it in front of Heizou. "Please drink this.''

Heizou. somewhat messily, drinks all of the water, then rests his head on his palm and looks at Kazuha. "You know, Kazuha... I wouldn't mind datin- no being with you romantically.''

Ba-thump. Kazuha blushes; eyes going wide. Did he really just say that? "I- Is that so?"

Heizou nods. "Mhm.''

Kazuha gently smiles. "I'll remember that.''

Content with that, Heizou slowly lays his head on the table.

"Heizou, if you're sleepy then I could.-''

"Not... sleepy... thinking...''

Kazuha sighs. "So you say.''

A few moments later, Kazuha calls out Heizou and only got light snoring in return.

"Sweet dreams, Heizou,'' Kazuha whispers as he gets up and gathers their dishes.

- - -

"Ugh.'' Heizou groaned as he woke up. He lifts himself off the table, feeling something fall off his shoulders. He grabs it and looks at it. "A blanket?''

"Good morning, Heizou,'' Kazuha says from the kitchen.

Heizou rubs his eyes. "...Morning.''

Kazuha takes out a square skillet and sets it on the stovetop. "How are you feeling? Not sore or anything?''

Heizou checks the time on his phone. "I fall asleep at my desk often. I'm used to it,'' he says getting up, holding the blanket. "Thanks for the blanket.''

"You're welcome.''

Heizou stands there staring blankly.

"Heizou, if you want to lay back down...''

"No. This is the norm. I'll be fully awake soon.'' He shifts. "I"m going to go use the toilet.'' He looks down at the blanket. "What should I do with this?"

Kazuha opens a cabinet. "Just put it on the back of the couch next to the other one.''

"Other one?" Heizou turns around to the couch and sees another blanket folded with a pillow on top. "Kazuha, did you sleep on the couch?"

"Yes,'' Kazuha says as he sets two plates on the counter. "I wanted to keep an eye on you after you pass- fell asleep.''

"Ah. Did I do anything?" Heizou asked as he folded the blanket.

"No, you slept peacefully. I have sensitive hearing, so if you moved I probably would have woken up.''

Heizou sets the blanket down. "That's good. I'll be right back.''

Heizou leaves, and Kazuha continues preparing breakfast.

He grabs a loaf of bread, slices four pieces off and places them in the already heated pan. When all the slices are toasted, he adds butter to them and places two slices on each plate. Next he goes to the fridge to grab a basket of strawberries and slices some up and adds them to the plates. Last, he checks to see if the tea is ready.

"There, done,'' Kazuha says bringing the plates to the table. He then goes back to grab the tea pot and cups.

Heizou returns just as Kazuha sat the second cup down.

"What's this?" A more awake Heizou asks sitting down.

"Breakfast.'' Kazuha fills their cups with tea. "Buttered toast and sliced strawberries. I figured something light would be good.''

Heizou picks up the tea cup. "Smells good.''

"Ginger tea in case you were nauseous, but you seem fine.''

"I'm surprised too. I thought for sure that I would have a bad hangover, but it could still kick in so I won't celebrate just yet,'' Heizou says before drinking some tea.

Heizou then picks up a slice of toast and eats it. After, he grabs his fork and proceed to chop up and mash his strawberries; placing it on his second slice of toast.

Kazuha takes a bite of his toast. I should make some fruit butter. 

"Hey, Kazuha, about last night...''

"!"

"I know you said I didn't move after... falling asleep, but what happened before that? I remember talking about my job...''

Kazuha puts his toast down. You talked about how much you were enjoying our dinner date and asked if calling it a date bothered me.''

"Really? ...And what was your answer?"

"That it doesn't bother me.''

Heizou goes back to eating after that. Looking downward in thought.

Oh, and Kazuha could tell Heizou wasn't going to let it go that easily. He pours himself another cup of tea, takes a sip and moves on.

"Since we're on the topic...'' Kazuha starts and continues when he has Heizou's attention. "I think I should clear something up.''

"I'm listening.''

"I enjoy drinking. I just have such a low tolerance, that one glass could knock me out.''

Heizou almost drops his toast. "Eh?"

"And you can see why that would've been a problem.''

Heizou groans again. "I'm an idiot.''

"You didn't know. It's not your fault.''

"No. I stand by what I said yesterday.''

Kazuha shook his head. "What matters now is that we are on the same page and with that said... I look forward to drinking with you. Though I hope you will take care of me after.''

Heizou laughs. "That goes without saying.''

-

Heizou eats his last bites of toast, then stands up, and grabs his phone. "Let me get going before I overstay my welcome.''

Kazuha gets up and walks him to the door.

-

"Thank you for dinner and breakfast,'' Heizou says while putting on his shoes and then his jacket.

"It was my pleasure.''

Heizou steps to the door and places his hand on the knob, but doesn't twist it. Instead he turns back to Kazuha with a serious look on his face.

"Kazuha.''

"Y- Yes?''

"I feel like I've said more than what you told me.''

"...Heizou-''

"Let me finish. It's clear that it's something that you want to keep to yourself, so I won't push." A pause. " But will you at least tell me if what I said was negative or pos-''

"Positive.''

Heizou's taken aback by the quick response. "Oh, okay." He scratches his cheek. "Well that's all I needed to know. I'll be going then.''

Kazuha smiles. "Alright. I'll see you for our lunch date.''

Heizou braces himself before opening the door yet still shivering when he does. He glances back at Kazuha. "I'll contact you about which day is good,'' he says as he walks out out the door.

Kazuha stands in the doorway, watching Heizou who gives him one more wave before he's out of sight.

"That intuition of his is quite something.''

Chapter Text

"Those are snow clouds for sure,'' Heizou says as he looks up at the sky from the familiar bench he sat on.

He was waiting for Kazuha who was running a bit late, but that was fine because it gave Heizou extra time to think about his feelings for Kazuha.

Why? Because after breakfast at Kazuha's, Heizou went home and spent hours trying to figure out what he said to Kazuha that was positive but didn't want to tell him.

He couldn't help it, but he eventually got his answer.

He confessed to Kazuha.

That would explain why Kazuha didn't want to tell him. He didn't know how he would react.

Not that Heizou would react badly. He wasn't in denial or anything. He likes Kazuha and wants to be with him. At most, his reactions would be shocked, surprised, and flustered.

Heizou sighs. Now he just needs to know if Kazuha shares similar feelings for him.

Actually, scratch that. Heizou's sure that Kazuha feels the same. He just needs to confirm it.

But how?

"Heizou.''

Speak of the Kazuha... Heizou turns to Kazuha quickly walking to him.

"I apologize for being late. I got caught up in a documentary about swords.''

"Not a problem.''

"Isn't you lunch time precious?"

"It depends,'' Heizou gets up. ''Shall we head to the restaurant?"

"I would have gladly met you there.''

"I know.'' They start walking. "Talk to me about this sword documentary.''

Kazuha gives Heizou a look that tells him that he was hoping he would ask.

-

-

-

They arrive at the restaurant and like last time...

"I'll leave it up to you, Heizou.''

"You sure?''

"I trust you. Plus I should secure us a table.''

"At least pick out a drink.''

"Iced tea.''

"Really?''

Kazuha nods.

''Alright, don't be disappointed.''

"I won't.'' He points to Heizou's coat. "Would you like me to take your coat?"

"Sure.'' He shrugs off his coat and hands it to Kazuha who then leaves up the steps.

Heizou turns back to the menu above.

"What should I get us this time?"

---

Heizou spots Kazuha at the same table they had before and joins him.

"I don't think I've ever seen lemon wedges served with onion rings before.''

Heizou sets Kazuha's iced tea in front of him. "It's good, I promise. I even got a couple extra for your tea.''

"Thank you,'' Kazuha says then looks at the bowl next to the plate. "Fruit salad?"

"Just wanted something sweet to go along with the onion rings,'' Heizou says picking up a lemon wedge and squeezing it over the onion rings. After, Heizou and Kazuha pick up one and bite into it with a crunch.

"Mmm!!!" they said in unison.

"See, I told you it would be good,'' Heizou says picking up another.

"You did,'' Kazuha says following suit.

They finish the onion rings rather quickly, and after dinking some of his cola, Heizou moves the fruit salad to the center of the table.

"Heizou, may I ask you a question?" Kazuha asked after picking up his fork.

Heizou pokes at a grape. "Sure.''

"You seem to go out for lunch often. Does your station not have a cafeteria?" 

Heizou frowns and ends up stabbing the grape. "There is one. The food just sucks.''

"Hm?"

"It's just so... disgusting. When I first started working at the station, I tolerated it because I was learning the ins and outs of the place and barely left, but after a certain point I couldn't take it anymore. It was starting to affect my mood and I needed to get out.''

They both reach for an apple slice. Heizou lets Kazuha have it and picks up a cherry instead.

"The good thing is that's also the day I came across that food truck I met you in front of, so I'm kind of thankful that the food in the cafeteria is terrible''

Kazuha pauses. Waiting.

"If it wasn't, we probably wouldn't have met,'' Heizou says knowing that was a bit of a stretch. 

"I think...'' Kazuha spoke up. "I think we would have met, regardless.''

Heizou bit down on his fork.

"Don't you agree, Heizou?"

For a moment, Heizou was caught by Kazuha's intense yet soft gaze. He lowers his fork, and while still keeping eye contact, smiles.

"Yeah, I do,'' Heizou says; his voice filled with warmth and happiness. He then thinks he hears Kazuha whisper something before taking a sip of his tea, and is about to ask, when something outside catches his eye.

"Look, Kazuha!'' Heizou points to the window.

Kazuha looks. "It's snowing.''

"Yep. Don't think it's going to stick though.''

"Hm.''

Heizou looked back at Kazuha, who had taken out his phone. Most likely looking at the weather. When Kazuha sets his phone down, Heizou notices his screen.

"Your wallpaper...'' Heizou says.

"My wallpaper?" Kazuha looks at his phone. "Oh.''

"That's the picture I sent you.''

"Yes. I hope it's okay that I made it my wallpaper.''

"More than okay,'' Heizou says cheerfully. "So what did you think when you saw it?"

Kazuha repeats what he said to himself that night. "'Why are you so cute, Heizou?'''

"'Cute','' Heizou says flatly, but still blushing.

Kazuha chuckles. "I'm mostly referring to your actions... Would you prefer i call you lovely?''

Heizou laughs. "I see what you did there.''

"Yes, but you really are lovely, Heizou.''

Heizou groans inwardly. This is why he thinks Kazuha reciprocates his feelings. He's definitely aware of what he's saying. Ugh. He'll dwell on that later.

"Thank you,'' Heizou says quickly composing himself. "But now I want a picture of you as my wallpaper.''

"Okay,'' Kazuha says. "Shall we take one here or we can go-"

"Nope,'' Heizou stops him. "It has to be a selfie and when the moment is right. That's what happened with me. It can't be planned.''

Kazuha thinks on it. "Mhm, when the mood is right.''

"You get it.''

"I do.''

---

Outside the restaurant, Heizou and Kazuha admire the falling snow for a bit before saying their goodbyes and leaving in opposite directions.

Heizou stops and looks back at Kazuha thinking that if he had any doubts, they were gone now.

Chapter Text

"Here we are,'' Kazuha says as he looks at the shop Heizou told him about.

<----- One month ago...

[Ring] [Ring] [Ring]

Kazuha pauses folding laundry to pick up his phone. It was Heizou. He answers it.

"Hello, Heizou."

"Hey Kazuha, you busy?"

"Folding laundry.''

"Okay, well I have two things I need to tell you."

"Alright.'' As soon as he says that, he gets a text from Heizou and opens it. It's a picture of Heizou's hand holding what seems to be cookie with a bite taken out of it.

"A cookie? I don't understand.''

"The soft vanilla cookies from this shop I came across are so delicious that I just had to tell you."

From how excited he sounds, Kazuha wished he was there t to see the look on Heizou's face when he took his first bite.

"Is this your way of asking me to go?"

"Yep!"

"Noted. Send me the location later.'' A pause. "So what is the second thing you want to tell me?"

"Ah, well the thing is..."

Kazuha picks up on Heizou's change of tone to a little serious.

"We need to put our dates on hold for a while.''

"Why?" Kazuha asked slightly worried.

"A case I'm about to start working on looks to be a big one.''

Kazuha lets out a breath. "You'll be busy. That is to be expected. Will we still be able to talk during that time?"

"Of course! I'll make the time, even if all we can do is say good morning or night to each other.''

Kazuha laughs softly. "Okay, Heizou. Don't push yourself and take care.''

"I will. I'll talk to you soon, Kazuha.''

----->

Kazuha walks up to the window of the cookie shop and sees that no one was there, yet the sign said 'Open'. He spots a doorbell and pushes it.

While he waited, he looked at all the cookies on display, but he already knew what he wanted.

The window slides open.

"Welcome!" the owner shouts. "Sorry about the wait. What would you like?"

"It's fine. Two soft vanilla cookies, please.''

"Coming right up,'' he says grabbing a bag and placing the cookies inside. He hands the bag to Kazuha who then pays.

"Thanks. Come again.''

---

When Kazuha returns home, he puts the cookies on the counter then leaves to go take a quick shower.

-

After his shower, Kazuha returns to the kitchen to warm up some to milk to have with his cookies which he sat on a plate. Once the milk was ready, he pours it into a mug then takes it and the plate over to the rug in front of the sliding doors and sits down.

While his milk cools, he picks up one of the cookies, takes a bite and is hit by the powerful taste of vanilla.

"Heizou was right,'' he says and drinks some of his milk.

Silence filled the air briefly after.

"Heizou...'' Kazuha looks at his phone resting on the small table next to the rug.

Is now a good time to send Heizou a picture of himself. They agreed when the moment is right, and Kazuha feels like it is.

Kazuha moves his plate and mug out the way, gets up, grabs his phone and a chair from the dining table. He places the chair across from where he was sitting, opens the camera, and places the phone on the seat of the chair then goes to stand in front of the doors.Once he's sure that he was in frame, he goes to set the timer.

He picks up his mug and positions himself back against the door and smiles, but the wind blowing leaves outside distracts Kazuha and he ends up looking outside.

[Snap]

"..." Kazuha sat his mug back down. He walks over to his phone and picks it up.

"That is not what I wanted to do,'' he says about to delete the picture, but after a second look, he changes his mind. The picture didn't look bad, he just wished he was facing the camera.

But he knows Heizou will like it, so he sends it to him.

Kazuha goes back to his spot on the rug, choosing to face outside while eating his cookies. And it's after finishing the first one that his phone rings. He didn't need took to see who it was. He simply answered and put it on speakerphone.

"Hello," Kazuha said prepared for Heizou's reaction.

"Kazuhaaaaa!!!"

Kazuha chuckled. "Yes, Heizou?"

"What are you trying to do to me?" he whined.

"Was it a bad time to send you a picture?"

"Huh? Not really. I"m actually finished with my case and currently going over my report regarding it. I was going to call you after.''

"Did everything go well.?"

"Yeah, but I can't really talk about it.''

"I figured.''

"But back to the picture. I'm won't be able to focus for the rest of the night.''

"Sorry?"

"If you're serious, don't be. I"m sure there are no mistakes in the report. Also I needed a break.''

Kazuha hums as he bites into the second cookie.

"Are you eating something?"

"Vanilla cookies from the shop you told me about.''

"Oh! You went? Well?''

"Delicious, like you said.''

"I knew you would think so.''

A moment passes.

"Next time, I would like us to go together.''

"Miss going out with me that much?" Heizou asked and Kazuha didn't need to see him to know he was grinning. 

"I did,'' Kazuha says easily.

"Hah,'' Heizou breathes out. "Kazuha you... I don't know why I'm teasing. I missed you too.''

Kazuha smiles into his mug while Heizou continues.

"I wonder why? It's not like we haven't talked at all the past month.''

Kazuha wonders too. "Perhaps it's like taking away a piece from a finished puzzle.''

"... Maybe...''

Heizou's response... It's like he wasn't one hundred percent sure.

Should Kazuha have phrased it differently? He didn't feel like it was wrong.

Kazuha could hear Heizou muttering to himself; clearly lost in thought so he decides to continue.

"You don't have to think too hard about it, Heizou.''

Heizou laughs. "You know will, but you're right. We should be talking about our next date.''

"Yes, let's do that.''

Chapter Text

When Kazuha opened the door, he did not expect to be greeted with a tired looking Heizou standing outside.

"Hey... Kazuha,'' he drags out with a forced smile and a little wave.

Correction, a very tired looking Heizou.

"Come in,'' Kazuha says concerned, and after Heizou takes off his shoes and jacket, Kazuha hurries him into the living room and onto the couch.

"What happened?" Kazuha asked.

Heizou leans back and lets out a breath. "It's nothing serious. My cousin asked me to help her move some things into storage. I just didn't think it would take as long as it did, and I was not going to miss our date, so, when it was getting close, I told her my plans then went home and took a shower before coming here.''

Kazuha crossed his arms. "So why did you walk here? You could have-''

"My car is in the shop.''

He has a car? No, not important now. ''Driving here would not have been good either. What if you had passed out on the way?"

"I'm not that tired, but I see what you're saying. Sorry Kazuha.''

Kazuha uncrossed his arms. "I accept your apology, and as for dinner, we could have rescheduled.''

"I didn't want to miss our date.''

"I heard you b-''

"No buts, Kazuha.''

Kazuha relents. "At least take this time to rest. I haven't started cooking yet, so you can take a short nap.''

"We'll see,'' Heizou says.

"Alright,'' Kazuha says, leaving Heizou to go get started on dinner.

In the kitchen, Kazuha gaters the ingredients he needed. At least that was the plan.

"Oh no.''

"What's wrong?" Heizou asked from the living room.

"I thought I had everything...''

Heizou gets up. "Want me to go to store for you?"

Kazuha shakes his head. "No, I'll go. You rest here like I asked,'' Kazuha says walking out the kitchen. "I wont be long.''

"Then I'll keep an eye on the place while you're gone,'' Heizou says.

Kazuha thanks Heizou and leaves the room after. Once Heizou hears the front door shut and lock, he sits back- well lays down on the couch.

He stares at the ceiling wondering what he should do to pass the time. Watch tv? Nah. Grab a book from Kazuha's office? He remembers a lot of books on poetry he wanted to ask Kazuha about. "Hmmm...'' He hums and takes out his phone and considers playing a game. He unlocks it, but instead of tapping a game app, he stares at the picture of Kazuha he has as his wallpaper.

Maybe he should rest like Kazuha wanted, and like a sign, he yawns, so he puts his phone on the coffee table and gets comfortable.

"I'll just take a short nap...'' Heizou closes his eyes. "Just until Kazuha gets back.''

---

Kazuha enters the living room with a bag in hand.

''Apologies Heizou for taking so long. I got-''

When Kazuha reaches the couch, he finds Heizou slightly curled up sleeping.

Kazuha smiled at him softly. "Glad you listened,'' Kazuha whispered and quietly walks into the kitchen sit his bag down. He then goes to get Heizou a blanket. He comes back with it and a small box.

He places the blanket on Heizou then sits down on the other end of the couch without disturbing him and opens the box.

----

Heizou opened his eyes, quickly sitting up when he notices the lack of sunlight in the room.

"Have a nice nap, Heizou?"

Heizou quickly turns to Kazuha, who appeared to be sewing something.

Heizou nods. "...Why didn't you...''

"Wake you? Because I wanted you to rest. Also you didn't move when I placed the blanket on you nor when I sat down, so I let you be.''

Heizou checks the time on his phone. "So what about dinner?"

"Like I said, I didn't want to disturb you.''

"Okaaaaaay,'' Heizou drags out as his eyes fall on Kazuha's red socks. Specifically the space between the top of his socks and the end of his shorts.

If he were to graze that area with his fingers, how would Kazuha react?

"You're staring awfully hard at me, Heizou.'' Kazuha says not looking up yet smiling like he knows what Heizou is thinking.

"I-'' Heizou's eyes move back to Kazuha's hands. A save. "I was wondering what you were doing there,'' Heizou points to Kazuha's hands.

"I'm embroidering this handkerchief. I came across a box of them while organizing and decided when I had some spare time I would embroider some of them. Such is the case now.''

"So talented.''

Kazuha chuckles. "A little,'' he says and hands Heizou the handkerchief. "For you.''

Heizou's eyes widen in surprise as he takes the handkerchief and looks it over. Two maple leaves. One big red one and the small one, reddish-brown. The trimming was golden brown and looked like a frame when unfolded. "Thank you, Kazuha.''

Kazuha smiles and put the needles and threads back into the box then gets up.

"Where are you going?"

Kazuha pauses. "To the kitchen.''

Heizou gets up. "Wait. We're still having dinner?"

"Of course, but not what I originally planned to make. Are you okay with that?''

"Yeah!"

Kazuha continues to the kitchen while Heizou sits down at the dining table. He glances at Heizou who was back to looking at the handkerchief adoringly like it's something he would treasure forever.

At that moment, all Kazuha could think was how adorable Heizou was and how much he wanted to hug him as a result, but he puts it aside to focus on preparing their dinner.

Kazuha grabs and puts on his apron then pulls his up into a high ponytail.

"Wow.''

Kazuha looks at Heizou and raises an eyebrow. "'Wow'?"

"You look good in an apron with your hair up.''

Kazuha opens a cabinet. "I don't think I look that different,'' Kazuha says taking out a glass bowl, a skillet, two plates and other tools he needed and sat them on the counter.

"You do to me, since it's my first time seeing in a apron with a different hair style.''

Kazuha walks to the fridge pausing when his hand touches the handle. But you've seen me- Wait, no he hasn't. Kazuha normally wears his apron and puts his hair up when he cooks, but the day of their first dinner together, Kazuha was somewhat nervous and ended up cooking without doing so.

"That's true,'' Kazuha says opening the fridge to grab eggs, cheese, and butter.

"So, what are you making?"

Kazuha cracks three eggs into the bowl and baets them. "Omelettes.''

The expression Heizou gave him told Kazuha that he was more than happy.

Kazuha places the skillet on the stove, adds butter and lets it heat up before pouring the eggs into it. When the omelette was halfway done, he adds cheese and lets it finish then slides it onto a plate. He then gets started on the second omelette.

After the second omelette is plated, Kazuha makes the ketchup sauce and pours it onto the omelettes.

"Heizou, can you come here?"

Heizou gets up and joins Kazuha in the kitchen. His eyes instantly lock onto the omelettes. "Looks so good that I'm tempted to eat it right here and now.''

"Thank you for the compliment, but it's a little cluttered in here, so would you mind taking these plates to the table? The spoons are in the drawer over there.'' Kazuha points at the drawer closest to the fridge.

"Sure thing,'' Heizou says picking up the plates and placing them on the table before going back to get the spoons.

With that handled, Kazuha clears the counter, removes his apron, takes down two glasses, then goes back to the fridge to pick out something to drink.

He takes out a bottle of apple juice and fills the glasses then joins Heizou who was taking a picture of his omelette.

"Do you intend to take pictures of everything I make?''

"Not everything, though I'm not making any promises. Anyway, look!" He holds up his phone, showing Kazuha the picture of his grilled fish. "I use this for your calls and messages.''

That made Kazuha a little happy, and got him wanting to know what Heizou's specialty dish is so he could to the same.

"That's one way to make use of it,'' Kazuha says.

"So you're okay with it?" Kazuha nods. "Great!'' Heizou sets his phone down and picks up his spoon. He scoops up a spoonful of the still steaming omelette and blows on it before eating.

And Kazuha watches him light up spoonful after spoonful.

"Kazuha are going to eat or watch me eat?"

Why can't he do both? He wanted to say. "I'll eat,'' he answered and picks up his spoon and eats as well. After a spoonful, he calls Heizou.

"Heizou?"

"Hm?" Heizou mumbles while chewing.''

"Why didn't you mention having a car?"

Heizou swallows. "It's not that I didn't want to... You'd be surprised by how little I drive it outside of work related things, so it's not the first thing I think about in conversations.'' He drinks some juice. "It's nothing fancy, but I'll bring it next time I come over"

"I look forward to seeing it.''

"Do you drive Kazuha? Or maybe asking if you have your license is a better question.''

"I do. For multiple vehicles, in fact.''

"That. Does not shock me one bit.''

Kazuha continues. "I don't own a vehicle, though.''

"Not unusual.''

Kazuha picks up his glass and watches Heizou finish his omelette. He's glad he's learning more things about Heizou, but he can't help but want a little more.

He sets his glass down. "Heizou, would you like to stay the night?"

Heizou places his spoon on the empty plate. "I would love to, but not tonight. I still got to help my cousin and I want to head over early to finish as quickly as possible.'' Heizou stands up. "In fact, I should probably get going.''

Kazuha knew the chances of Heizou staying were low, but he was still a little disappointed.

"I see... Then, as usual, allow me to walk you out,''

---

Outside, Heizou looks up at the night sky.

"You can tell winter is about to end.''

"Yes, the scent of spring is slowly approaching.''

"You know, Kazuha, I really do like walking here. Everything is pretty to look at.''

"I agree. Just don't do it when you're exhausted.''

"I really worried you didn't I Ka- Huh?'' Heizou turned to find Kazuha staring off, lost in thought.

Did he even hear him?

"Kazuha?"

Kazuha blinks and looks at Heizou. "Yes?''

Heizou sighs. "Tell me what's on your mind.''

Nothing gets past Heizou. Although this time it was on Kazuha. "There is something I want to do.''

Heizou tilts his head. "Then do it?"

Kazuha looks Heizou in the eyes and find his feet moving on their own and before he knows it, his arms wrap around Heizou in a hug.

"K- Kazuha?"

Kazuha hears him, but he doesn't want to focus on that right this second. Instead, he would rather focus on Heizou's warmth, his scent, and the beating of his heart. It was all so nice. Even more so when Heizou returns the hug. And, somehow, Kazuha manages to keep calm.

"Sorry things didn't go as planned.''

"What are you talking about? Tonight was great. I even got a gift from you. Also, you could've served me a piece of candy for dinner and I would have been happy. If anything, I'm the one who should be saying sorry for not being able to stay longer.''

"Don't be,'' Kazuha whispers and Heizou hugs him more.

After a few moments they (reluctantly) separate.

"Good night, Heizou. Take care on the way home.''

"I will. Good night, Kazuha.''

Chapter Text

So the yellow flowers won't be in for another week... Kazuha scrolled down further.

"Kazuha are you listening?" Came Heizou's voice through the phone next to Kazuha's laptop.

"You want to take me to a cafe?"

"Yeah! They have a sakura-themed menu that I wanna try.''

"What's on the menu?"

"Cookies, brownies, cakes... The cheesecake looked really good...''

"It's been a while since I've had cheesecake.''

"Then, do you want to go?"

"I do.''

"Is next week good?"

"It's a date.''

"Great. Talk to you later, Kazuha.''

"Later, Heizou.''

After the call ends, Kazuha goes to his contacts and taps on Albedo's name.

...

"Mr. Kaedehara, hello.''

Kazuha watches as Albedo leaves and goes back and forth gathering things.

"Same to you. Are you busy?"

"I am, actually.''

"Should I call back later?"

"If I had gotten started, I wouldn't have answered, so you called at the right time.''

"Then I am thankful to have caught you at this time.''

Albedo sits down. "Do you mind if I draw while we talk?"

"No, go ahead.''

Albedo begins to draw on his sketchpad. "Now what would you like to discuss?"

"Can you design a card for me?"

"Of who?" Albedo asked without looking up.

"My friend, Shikanoin Heizou.''

"Hm... I don't mind, but it will be a while. I'm booked until winter.''

"That's fine. I am in no rush.''

"And is Mr. Shikanoin okay with this?"

"More or less.''

Albedo flips a page. "Another question.''

"Yes?''

"Is he your boyfriend?"

Kazuha's heartbeat picks up. "... He's not?''

"You sound conflicted. Are your feelings for him one-sided?"

Kazuha shakes his head. "Not at all, but I think it would be easier if I told you everything from the begining.''

-

"Let's see if I got this right... The feelings you and Mr. Shikanoin share are mutual, but you want to wait until you two know more about each other before fully confessing. Do I have that right?"

Kazuha nods. "You do.''

"Well that does seem to be working for you both, so I have nothing to say other than keep doing what you're doing.''

Kazuha laughs. "I think I will. Thank you Albedo.''

"You're welcome.'' Albedo puts down his sketchpad and takes out a small notebook and writes something down. "As for Mr. Shikanoin, we'll discuss his card at a later date.''

"Okay.''

"Will that be all?"

"Yes.''

"Then I wish you well. Goodbye.'' 

Now with that taken care of, Kazuha decides to call Heizou back.

...

"Hey Kazuha, missing my lovely voice already?"

"Heizou, when I said you're lovely, I meant all of you and that includes your voice, but that's not why I called back.''

"Good comeback, alright I'm listening.''

"I just got through talking with Calx, and while he agreed to design your card, it wont be for a while.''

"How long are we talking?"

"Next winter or after,'' Kazuha says.

"I think I need to check out more of his work, also... I know Calx is Albedo.''

"! How did you- No, when?"

"Not too long after you showed me the pictures. Also you slipped up and almost said Albedo before correcting yourself.''

"Ah,'' Kazuha says.

"I also figured out that Zhenyu is Xingqiu.''

"That's impressive, detective,'' Kazuha teased.''

"I do my best,'' Heizou teased back.

"Well that's all I wanted to tell you. I hope I didn't disturb you or anything.''

"Nope, I"m done with work and currently on my way to a friend's bar for a drink.''

"That's nice,'' Kazuha said trying not to sound bothered, but of curse Heizou picked up on it.

"Hey, hey, don't be upset; how about this, next dinner date we'll drink together, sound good?"

"Accompanying you to the bar would've been enough.''

"I plan to take you there eventually, but since it's our first drink together, I want it to be just the two of us.''

"Oh. Well that's fine then.'' Honestly either was fine. Kazuha doesn't know why he even said that.

"And since we'll be drinking together, that means I can stay over, right?"

"Overnight?"

"Overnight.''

"That's fine too, but I hope you're not only staying over because of your promise to look after me.''

"I mean that's part of it, but I've been wanting to stay over for a while. It bothered me when I turned you down last time and you seemed disappointed as well.''

That's true.

"You can stay over. I look forward to it planned.''

"Heh, heh, me too- Oh I"m here. I gotta go.''

"Alright, bye Heizou.''

-----

Heizou put his phone away as he entered the bar.

"Welcome- Oh it's you, Shikanoin.''

Heizou takes his usual seat at the counter.

"Whiskey?" Shinobu asked.

"I'm thinking a gin fizz tonight.''

"Coming right up,'' Shinobu says and begins fixing his drink. When done, she slides the glass to Heizou. "So what's new?"

Heizou sips his drink. "i think I've fallen for Kazuha.''

"Yeah. I know. I said that months ago.''

"I believe I said, "I wouldn't go that far.'''

"And I believe you knew what you felt for him even back then.''

He had no argument. "Fine, you're right.''

"I know. So what, you two are boyfriends' now? Though from what you've been telling me, you two already were.''

"You would think, but we're not. At least not yet.''

"Did something happen between you two?"

Heizou drinks. "No, everything is cruising along fine.''

"So you just came here to gush some more over your not boyfriend?" Shinobu groans.

Heizou raises a brow. "Whether I'm gushing or not you normally listen, but tonight you seem annoyed and stressed.''

Shinobu groans again, pinching the bridge of her nose. "A certain bunch caused some trouble a while ago, and while I handled it, I'm still dealing with the aftermath. In other words, a lot of complaints and-''

"You hit your limit for tonight?"

"Yeah,'' Shinobu drags out.

"So where are they now?"

"They're--"

A door in the back slams open and out comes Itto.

"Shinobu the timer went off, so can we-- Heizou! My bro! What's up!"

Heizou quickly downs his drink. "Well I guess I should get--"

"Not so fast, bro,'' Itto wraps an arm around Heizou's shoulders. "Heard you were having some love problems. Why didn't you tell me? I could've given you some tips.''

"Thanks... bro, but I don't think--''

"Come on, I've given out plenty of tips to the customers here.''

"Shinobu sighs.''

"Did it help?"

"Don't know, but since there wasn't any complaints, I'm going to assume it did.''

"That's because they haven't come back. At all,'' Shinobu says annoyed.

"Which is why I said it must've helped. So what do ya say Heizou?"

"What do I say...'' How is he going to get out of this? Ah!

"Before I answer that, how are things going between you and Gorou? Still trying to befriend him?"

Itto releases Heizou and crosses his arms. "I don't get it. He turns down everything I ask. Including my invites to bar. Even when I offer him free drinks and snacks.''

"I told you to stop that,'' Shinobu says.

Heizou laughs.

"I even asked Miss Hina for advice.''

"Oh? Heizou glances at Shinobu. "And what did she have to say?"

"She didn't. In fact, she hasn't responded to me since I started talking about Gorou.''

Oh how Heizou wishes he could tell him. "I'm sure things will work out. Maybe just find a way to talk to him one on one calmly,'' Heizou says and gets up.

"You're leaving already? What about my tips?"

Heizou pays Shinobu. "Actually talking to you both helped a lot, so thanks.''

Itto laughs proudly smacking Heizou on the back. Hard. "Glad to be of help! Come back for some drinks on the house.''

"Itto!''

"Relax Shinobu. What's wrong with giving my bro here a drink or two? He's helped me plenty of times.''

"He already gets free drinks more often than not.''

"I see no issue,'' Heizou adds.

"Of course you wouldn't," Shinobu huffs.

Heizou laughs on his way out. "I'll see you two.''

Chapter Text

Kazuha gives himself a final look over in the mirror. His outfit for today's date: A white long sleeve turtleneck, dark gray shorts, and his red socks. He smiles knowing how much Heizou seems to like them.

Ring Ring Ring

Kazuha glances at his phone on the dresser and sees Albedo's name on the screen and picks it up.

"Hello?"

"Sorry for calling unexpectedly, but I want you to do something for me.''

"Sure, what is it?"

-

Kazuha walks into the living room just in time to hear a car pulling into his driveway.

"That must be Heizou," Kazuha says on his way to the front door.

-

Heizou is getting out of his car just as Kazuha reaches him.

"Hey Kazuha!" Heizou says walking up to Kazuha.

"Hello,'' Kazuha says, still looking at the car.

Heizou patted his car. "so what do you think?"

"Silver is not the first color that comes to mind when I think of you.''

"Interesting,'' Heizou says rubbing his chin. "What color does?"

"Green or yellow.''

"... Green? Nah, but if we are talking yellow... I'll save that for the motorcycle I plan on getting in the future.''

"Motorcycle?" Kazuha thinks Heizou would look good on one.

"Heh.'' Kazuha looks at Heizou. "Are you wondering why I didn't tell you before?"

"No."

"Then what were you thinking?"

"How good you would look on a motorcycle.''

Heizou's cheeks warms and he turns away. Cute.

"We should get going.'' He walks past Kazuha, but not before mentioning his outfit. "You look cute today, Kazuha.''

Kazuha blushes at the compliment, then looks over Heizou. He was wearing a cream colored sleeveless v-neck and black pants. Also, that choker of his...

"Stare any longer and you'll start drooling, Kazuha.''

Kazuha's eyes go back to Heizou's grinning face. "Sorry,'' he clears his throat. "Let's go.''

-----

On the way to the cafe, Kazuha began taking pictures of the sakura trees. Heizou also does the same, except he was taking pictures of anything that caught his eyes. Well, it's not like they were in a hurry.

-

They eventually arrive at a small cafe under the flower covered trees. It wasn't busy and they easily get a table outside. After sitting, a waiter shows up and Kazuha lets Heizou handle ordering.

"Are you two ready to order?"

"Yes, we'll have the medium sakura cheesecake and two sakura lattes.''

The waiter writes down their order. "Will that be all?" Heizou nods. "Then I'll be back in a few minutes with your order,'' the waiter says then leaves.

"Sakura latte?'' Kazuha questioned.

"Since we're ordering off their sakura menu anyway, might as well get a drink to match.''

"I'm not complaining, Heizou,'' Kazuha says looking around. "Is this your first time here?"

"As a customer, yes.''

"Hm.'' Kazuha spots another sakura tree and takes a picture.

"You know Kazuha, I'm very aware that you like to take pictures, but aren't you taking too many? And of the sakura trees... Is there a reason for that?"

Kazuha puts down his phone. " Earlier, Albedo called and asked me if I would take pictures of the sakura trees and send them to him.''

"For a drawing or painting I assume?"

"Most likely. Also, the pictures aren't only for him, and if we are talking about me taking a lot... I can say the same for you.''

Heizou laughed, taking out his phone and tapping around. "Yeah, you might've inspired me a bit.'' He hands Kazuha his phone. "Check out this album.''

Kazuha looked through the album, coming across pictures of food, and not just what he made, and mostly fried of course. He chuckled at that. There were also pictures of cats, plants, flowers, and trees, some from today some not. He instantly recognized the road to his house that was taking during autumn.

All beautifully shot, but there was something he noticed... There weren't as many as he thought...

"Are there more?" Kazuha says suddenly.

"???"

"Outside your phone, do you have anymore pictures?"

"I do on my computer and tablet at home. Not a lot though.''

"I would still like to see them,'' Kazuha hands Heizou his phone back. "Can I?''

"Absolutely. I'll add it to the list.''

LIst? Before Kazuha could ask, the waiter returns with their order.

They place the cheesecake on the table along with their lattes then leaves after saying 'enjoy'.

Kazuha and Heizou both stare at the cake, surprised by its size.

"That's--'' Kazuha starts

"Bigger than I thought,'' Heizou finishes and takes a picture of the pink cake then picks up the spoon next to it.

"It appears they only gave us one spoon,'' Kazuha points out.

"Probably considered a couple's dessert, but I don't think it'll be a problem,'' Heizou says scooping a spoonful of the cheesecake and holding it up to Kazuha's mouth. "Say ahh~''

"!" Kazuha sees the smirk on Heizou's face and indulges him anyway. "Ahh...'' Kazuha opens his mouth and lets Heizou feeds him. His heart racing all the while.

"How does it taste, Kazuha?"

Kazuha swallows. "Good.''

"Really?" Heizou pulls back and scoops himself a spoonful and tastes it.

Kazuha watches as Heizou's closes his mouth around the spoon, eyes lighting up before pulling the spoon out and licking his lips. "..."

"It is good!'' Heizou picks up his latte and sniffs it. "Really does smell like cherry blossoms. I don't know how they do it.'' He takes a sip. "You wouldn't think it works but it does.''

Kazuha does the same. "Yes, it's pleasant. Not overpowering.''

Heizou picks the spoon back up and repeats his actions. "Can we continue, Kazuha?"

Kazuha can see the unsaid 'please' in Heizou's eyes. He smile, nods, and opens his mouth again to let Heizou feed him and then himself. They continue in their own little world, not paying attention to the stares they were getting, until the cheesecake was gone.

-

"That was delicious,'' Heizou said patting his stomach.

Kazuha agrees, picking up his cup and finishing his latte. His phone vibrates in his pocket and he takes it out. A message. "Ah, it seems the flowers I ordered are ready to be picked up.''

"Oh, do you want to go after we finish here or--''

Kazuha puts his phone away. " Let's make that the last stop. I still want to take a few more pictures.''

"Alright,'' Heizou gets up. "Let me go pay, then we can go.''

-----

After leaving the cafe, Kazuha and Heizou walk for a bit and end up on a bridge above a lake where many sakura trees abound.

"Would you look at this view!" Heizou exclaims looking over the railing at the petals floating on the sparkling water.

"Be careful, Heizou," Kazuha tells Heizou, while doing his own thing on the opposite side.

"I will.'' Heizou says. "What's this?"

"Did you find something?" Kazuha asked, turning around.

"A broken branch probably from the tree here,'' he says gesturing at the tree next him that appears to be growing out the lake.

Kazuha is left speechless at the sight before him. Heizou leaning against the railing studying the branch, with blossoms on it, in his hand. Next to him the aforementioned tree... Beautiful Kazuha thought and the gentle wind blowing petals around only enhanced that. Kazuha holds up his phone without saying a word, but Heizou looks at him- catching on and winks at him.

Snap

"Perfect,'' Kazuha whispered.

"You got what you need?" Heizou softly asked as he approached Kazuha.

"I did,'' he said equally soft.

Heizou hums and reaches out to remove a petal from Kazuha's hair.

Kazuha warms at the action, but stays silent. Only wondering how Heizou's hair feels.

"Um... You said you need to go pick up your flowers?" Heizou asked breaking the moment.

"Yes, at the flower shop.''

Heizou lets the petal go. "Are you ready to go get them?"

"I am.''

-----

When they arrive at the flower shop, Heizou opts to wait outside while Kazuha goes inside to pick up his flowers.

There were a few people ahead of Kazuha, so he walks around for a bit until someone calls out to him.

"Sir?"

Kazuha turns and walks up to the empty counter area. "I'm here to pick up the flowers I ordered.''

"Name?"

"Kaedehara Kazuha.''

The employee checks the computer. "Yes, here you are. Just one moment,'' the employee says before going into the back.

Kazuha looks at the small rack next to the register filled with bags of tea and coffee, and picks up a bag of coffee that stood out to him.

The employee returns with a box that contained Kazuha's flowers and sets them on the counter. Kazuha sets the coffee next to it.

-

Kazuha exits the shop holding the box and a small bag. He looks for Heizou and finds him crouched down looking at the red and white flowers.

Heizou notices him, stands up, and walks to him.

"Want me to carry those?"

It's probably best if Kazuha holds them, otherwise he'll use up all his phone storage taking pictures of Heizou.

"No thanks, but I got you this,'' he wiggles his hand with the bag in it. Heizou takes it and looks inside.

"Spring Blend?"

"Yes, it's supposed to have the smell and taste of spring.''

"Can't wait to try it.''

They head back to Kazuha's house after.

-----

Heizou walks Kazuha to his door and they say their goodbyes as usual, but Heizou didn't leave. Instead he stood there almost as if he was waiting for or expecting something.

But what?

Kazuha tilts his head, curious. "Yes, what is it Heizou?"

Heizou takes a breath. "Can we- If that was only a one time thing, I get it...''

Then it clicks. Kazuha sets the box on the ground, opens his arms and wraps them around Heizou again.

And this time, Heizou didn't hesitate to hug him back.

They pull away, but were still close. "Heizou, I want you to know, I enjoy hugging you, and I want to- want us to keep doing it from here on,'' and with that, Kazuha hugs him again.

Heizou's arms tighten around him and leans in to Kazuha's ear.

"Same.''

Chapter Text

Kazuha checks again to make sure he has everything. Good, he does. He's a little happier than usual. Is it because Heizou is staying overnight? Maybe.

The doorbell rings and Kazuha opens it to a brightly smiling Heizou.

"Someone's in a good mood,'' Kazuha says letting Heizou inside.

"Of course I am.''

They walk into the living room and Heizou sets his bag on the couch then goes inside it, pulls out a bottle and hands it to Kazuha.

"Wine?" An interesting choice. "What a lovely color.''

"That berry wine stuck out to me.''

"Well I trust your choices as they haven't failed me yet,'' Kazuha says walking into the kitchen to put the wine in the fridge.

"That's good.'' A pause. "Where are the flowers you bought? I didn't see them out front.''

Kazuha walks back to Heizou. "They're in the back. Would you like to see them?"

Heizou nods eagerly.

"Let me get you some slip-ons.''

-

"I've seen your front yard and a bit of the back from inside, but seeing it fully...''

Kazuha leans back against the doors and observes Heizou as he walks around the backyard.

First he stops at the flowers, admiring them. From there it's the shed, the picnic table, the rock beds, and finally, the hard to miss maple tree.

Heizou had his thinking face on as he looks at the tree.

"My intuition tells me there is something special about this tree...'' Is that what you're thinking Heizou?

Kazuha gets off the doors. It's about time he got started on dinner, so he lets Heizou know, gets a thumbs up in return, then goes back inside.

-

A bit later, Heizou is back inside and spots Kazuha picking up a piece of salmon.

"A salmon dish?" he asks, walking into the kitchen.

"Yes,'' Kazuha says. "Specifically, salmon and onion stew with mushroom ginger rice," he adds and picks up a knife then tweezers to remove the skin and bones from the salmon.

"Is this what you wanted to make last time?"

Kazuha nods and begins cutting the salmon.

"Do you need help?"

Kazuha pauses. "Everything is pretty much done... Oh, can you chop up that onion?" Kazuha points to the large onion sitting on the chopping board.

"Easy.''

"Put on an apron first."

"Why? I'm only chopping an onion."

"You're in the kitchen helping me cook, so you'll wear one.''

Kazuha seems to take his coking seriously, so Heizou complies. "Fine,'' he says somewhat playfully.

"Do you not wear one while you cook?" Kazuha asks while pouring some oil into a pan.

"I probably would if I had one.''

"... Noted. It's hanging on the hook over there.''

Heizou walks over to where the apron was. "Kind of worn out isn't it?"

"I've been meaning to get a new one, but it should do.''

Heizou puts it on. "What do you think, Kazuha?"

Kazuha looks at him. "I think I would like to see you wearing one more often.''

Heizou smiles, keeping his cool, and walks back, picks up the knife and cuts up the onion.

"Nice and fine.''

"Hey, I can cook.''

"I didn't say you couldn't.''

"You were thinking along those lines.''

"I won't deny that, so please prove me wrong when you get the chance.''

Gladly, just you wait.'' Heizou puts the onions in a bowl and hands it to Kazuha who pours them into the heated pan.

Once the onions brown, Kazuha seasons the salmon and adds it to the pan until it's lightly brown then adds additional ingredients, before covering and letting it cook.

Kazuha gives it a sir once it's done. "Can you check on the rice, Heizou?"

Heizou walks to the rice cooker and opens the lid. "Ah~ smells good. Can I eat now, Kazuha?"

"After you grab the plates, bowls, chopsticks and glasses.''

Heizou does just that and while Kazuha fixes their plates, he goes into the fridge intending to grab the wine but then he comes up with another idea. "Kazuha, how do you feel about having the wine after dinner?"

"That's a good idea," Kazuha answers as he sets their dishes on the table.

-

Per routine, Heizou takes a picture of his food before eating. He picks up a piece of salmon, making sure he gets some of the onions too, and chows down. As expected of Kazuha, delicious.

He glances at Kazuha who was staring at Heizou with an intense look in his eyes. He removes the chopsticks from his mouth. "The salmon is perfect, Kazuha.''

Kazuha brightens at that and starts to eat.

Heizou picks up his bow of rice, wondering if Kazuha's favorite food is fish. He had an inkling when the first dish he cooked for them was grilled fish...

He'll keep that in mind going forward.

---

After dinner, Heizou offers to help Kazuha with the dishes which he accepts.

"So where will we be drinking?" Heizou asked after handing Kazuha the dried plate.

"On the rug,'' he says placing the plate on the rack. "In fact, since we're done here, you can go ahead.''

"Alright,'' Heizou says before going to the rug.

-

Heizou sits down and looks outside feeling both nervous and excited.

Kazuha shows up with the bottle of wine and two wine glasses. He sat down. "Will you allow me to pour, Heizou?"

Woah, he sounded and looked... seductive. Was it intentional? Yeah, the butterflies weren't going away anytime soon.

"Whatever you want.''

Kazuha chuckles; pouring the wine into the glasses. Heizou chooses to stare at the liquid slowly filling up the glasses until Kazuha finishes and hands one to him.

"To our first drink together,'' Kazuha says after holding up his glass.

Heizou does the same.

Clink

They both take a sip of the wine.

"It's not as sweet as I thought, even though the berry scent is strong.''

Heizou just sits back as Kazuha continues to drink while talking about the various drinks he's tried during his travels and soon he's done with his first glass and filling it up again.

"Glad you're liking the wine," Heizou says taking slow sips.

After drinking half the glass, Kazuha looks at Heizou and tilts his head; face slightly pink.

"is there something on my face?"

Kazuha sets his glass down, then he is in Heizou's space, messing with his hair.

"W- what are you doing?"

Kazuha giggles. "Your hair is the same color as the wine.''

Heizou glances at the glass. One and a half glasses... He wasn't kidding about his low tolerance.

Heizou startles when Kazuha places his hands on his cheeks and caresses the moles under his eyes with his thumbs.

And Heizou is stunned.

"I've wanted to touch them for a while.''

"Well now you have, happy?" Heizou murmurs.

Kazuha nods with a drowsy look in his eyes. "You're so pretty, Heizou.''

Ba- thump. This is not good. "Thanks?"

"You're welcome,'' and Kazuha's hand slides down to his neck and takes off his choker.

"!? Why did you-"

"You're staying over..'' He yawns. "You can't sleep with this on.''

Next thing Heizou knows, he's on his back with Kazuha laying his head on his chest.

Is he asleep? Heizou glances at Kazuha breathing softly; sleeping soundly then is back looking outside glad he has his phone, a view, and is on a comfortable rug.

---

Heizou feels Kazuha stirring next to him. He puts down his phone and watches as his eyes open slowly and feeling around for something; most likely his phone. "Rug?" he says and sits up.

"Morning, Kazuha.''

Kazuha looks at hm. "Good morning, Heizou, did I-''

"Get drunk? Yes, but you didn't knock out instantly like you said.''

"I didn't?'' He sighs. "Then I apologize if I did anything strange.''

"Strange? You didn't. You were actually very physically affectionate with a hint of flirty."

That surprised Kazuha.

"You all right, Kazuha?''

"... To not remember what my drunk self did is...'' Kazuha covers his mouth getting lost in his thoughts, which don't seem to be good based on his frowning.

And Heizou was trying to figure out the 'why'.

Is it possible that he's- "Kazuha, are you jealous of... yourself?"

The shocked look of realization on Kazuha's face told Heizou that he hit the bulls eye and he lowers his hand.

"I'm sorry, Heizou.''

Heizou sighs, shaking his head. Always apologizing. "If it's bothering you that much, why don't you just repeat what you did last night.''

"Yes, but you need to tell me what I did.''

"I knew that,'' Heizou laughs and they both get comfortable. "Okay, it started with you messing with my hair, saying it was the same color as the wine."

Kazuha took some strands and lets them slide between his fingers. "Next.''

Ba thump

"Then you placed both your hands on my cheeks.''

Kazuha slowly slid one hand down to cup his cheek before the other. "Next.''

Why does this feel different? 

"You caressed the moles under my eyes saying how you wanted to touch them.''

Kazuha hums, repeated the action and Heizou is starting to feel warm. "Next.''

Heizou swallows. "You called me pretty,'' Heizou says blushing.

Kazuha rubs his moles again. "You're beautiful, Heizou. So lovely.''

Heizou frowns. "You said none of that.''

"I want it to be different.''

It already is.

Heizou looks away from Kazuha's affectionate gaze.

"Next.''

"You took off my choker, but as you can see, I didn't put it back on." He looks back. "Want me to?"

"No, this is fine,'' Kazuha says and slides his hand down until it's resting on the side of his neck. He runs a thumb across it causing Heizou to shudder. "A weak spot?"

Heizou says nothing.

"I'll have to remember that.''

"Huh?!" He's definitely red now. How is Kazuha not reacting? He's got to feel his heart racing.

"Don't worry about that now. What did I do next?"

He needs to wrap this up. It's becoming too much.

"Y- you pushed me down then put your head on my chest. That is when you finally fell asleep.''

"I see...'' Kazuha lowers his hands. "I don't think I need to go further, but I appreciate you telling me.''

Huh? Why? "Yeah.''

Kazuha gets up. "I should make breakfast.''

"Are you feeling okay enough to do that?"

"I am,'' Kazuha picks up the wine bottle and glasses. "In the meantime, feel free to use the bath. There should be a basket to put your clothes in so I can was them later. That is, if you're staying longer.''

Heizou stretches a bit. "I have nowhere to be anytime soon, and yes, I will use your bath.''

Kazuha smiles. "use whatever you need,'' he tells him before leaving.

-

"What a big bath tub,'' Heizou says gliding his hand along the edge of the tub. "I wonder if Kazuha and I- No!'' Heizou shakes away the thoughts, clearly not fully cooled down from earlier.

He'll just take a shower for now.

-

Heizou made the right choice choosing to take a shower because when he returns to the living room, Kazuha is placing plates on the table. He walks over and sits down. On the plate is a slice of ham, a fried egg, toast and a small salad.

"I see you chose to take a shower,'' Kazuha says taking a seat.

Heizou places the ham and egg on the toast. "I didn't want to miss breakfast.''

Kazuha pours some tea into their cups. "It wasn't going anywhere.''

"I wanted to eat it fresh,'' he says and bites into the toast.

Kazuha sips some of his tea. "Fine, but I must apologize again.''

"Forb what?" Heizou says with his mouth full.

"You probably weren't expecting things to go the way they did. For example, sleeping on the floor.''

Heizou puts his toast down. "Honestly, I was more concerned about your comfort.''

"Just like how you're used to falling asleep at your desk or table, I've slept on the ground many times. A warmed rock is quite comfortable.''

"You camped a lot... I know this and yet...''

Kazuha laughs.

"Well, anyway, since we're talking about sleeping... Where did you plan for me to sleep.'' Heizou picks up his cup. ''The couch?"

"My bed of course.''

Heizou chokes on his tea, but quickly recovers.

"Are you alright?" Kazuha hands him a napkin.

"I am, but I got to say, that might be the one negative I have to say about our date.''

"It would be a lie to say I disagree.''

They both sigh.

"Next time,'' Heizou says.

"Next time,'' Kazuha repeats.

Heizou is about to go back to eating-

"Actually Kazuha, let's make the next time at my place.''

Chapter Text

"Alright, I don't think I can get it cleaner than it already is,'' Heizou says looking around. "Now all that's left to do is...''

Heizou goes into his bedroom to put on the pastel yellow apron he had laid out on the bed.

When he received a package from Kazuha he didn't know what to expect, but he wasn't shocked since Kazuha implied he was going to get him one.

I was out getting one for myself, and you said you didn't have one, so I got you one. Do you like it?

That's what he said when Heizou called him after opening the package.

He looked himself over in the mirror and decided to follow Kazuha and put his hair up in a high ponytail. He smiles wondering how Kazuha will react.

Ding dong Ding dong Ding dong

-

When Heizou opened the door, Kazuha didn't say anything, he just looked him over. Though he had already seen Heizou in a apron, this was different. He got what Heizou meant back when he first saw him in a apron.

"Are you coming in or...'' 

Kazuha snapped out of it and walked inside. "Thank you for having me over,'' he says taking off his shoes. 

"It was about time,'' Heizou says and brings Kazuha to the main area. "So what do you think of my place?"

Kazuha looks around. The walls are a similar color to Kazuha's, he also had an open kitchen, and a sliding door that lead to the balcony. In the corner by the sliding door is a desk- well more like a mini office area. There are also a few bookshelves filled with books, games, movies and random objects.

"Hm, I expected it to be messier.''

"Of course I was going to clean before you got here, but don't worry, you'll eventually see the mess.''

Kazuha laughs and goes inside the bag he was wearing and takes out a glass jar and gives it to Heizou. "I made this for you."

Heizou takes the jar and tilts it a bit; looking at the thick liquid. "Is this syrup?"

"Yes, made with the wine that was left over.''

"I'm going to keep saying it, you're so talented, Kazuha.''

"Thanks.''

Heizou sets the jar on the counter. "I'm going to get cooking. You can put your bag in my bedroom; it's through the door by the desk. After that, you can do whatever you want.''

"May  I ask what we are having?"

"My favorite, katsudon!"

He seems excited, cute. "Take your time.''

"Believe me, I will.''

-

Kazuha walks up to Heizou's bedroom door, pausing to look at the calendar on the wall next to it. The twenty fourth was circled and Kazuha wondered what was special about that day briefly  before entering the bedroom.

The first thing Kazuha noticed is the large bed. He goes to sit on it to get a feel of it.

"Not too hard or soft...'' Next he looks around. A big window, table, dresser, bookcases... His eyes stop on the shelf by the door.

"Is that...'' He gets off the bed and walks to it. On it is the handkerchief he gave him in a photo frame on display.''

"I wondered what you did with it.'' He touches it. "A picture of the two of us next to it would be nice.''

He lets that thought float for a moment before leaving the room.

-

Heizou told Kazuha that he could do whatever he wants, and he thought about going out on the balcony to check out the view, but when he sees Heizou in the kitchen completely focused on cooking, he chooses to sit down at the dining table for two and observe him.

-

Heizou puts the final touches on the bowls and brings them to the table. "What do you want to drink?"

"What are you having?"

"I'm drinking beer. Do you want regular, light, or non-alcoholic?"

Seems he was prepared.

"How sweet of you. I will have non-alcoholic just in case.''

"Okay,'' Heizou going back to the fridge.

Meanwhile Kazuha, like Heizou, takes a picture of his meal.

"Copying me?" Heizou asked, setting the cans down then himself.

"That was always my intention once I found out what your favorite dish was.'' Kazuha puts his phone down and picks up his bowl and chopsticks.

Kazuha picks up a slice of the cutlet and bites into it; a pleasant crunch came after. He waits until he's had it with the egg and rice before commenting, but when he does... "Perfectly cooked and seasoned. It's delicious. I owe you an apology.''

"Accepted,'' Heizou says and picks up his own bowl. Even when it's his own cooking, he lights up.

-

After they are done eating, Heizou gathers their dishes. "Kazuha you  can go ahead and use the bath first, then we'll go through my pictures.''

Oh, right, Kazuha almost forgot about that.

-

Heizou's bathroom is smaller, yet spacious. Kazuha turns on the water and while the tub is filling up, he looks at Heizou's various bath products. They were mostly the same scent: passion fruit and peony. He opens the bottle and sniffs it. Yes, this is his scent, sweet and floral. Kazuha closes the bottle. Should he buy some to have when Heizou comes over? He'll think about it.

-

Heizou's sitting on the couch with his phone in hand when Kazuha returns.

"Are you going to use the bath?"

"I'll take a shower before bed.''

"If that's the case, may I use your kitchen to make us some warm milk with honey?"

"Sure, go ahead.''

Kazuha nods going into the kitchen. Heizou had everything he needed down to the small pot. Actually, he was well stocked overall.

Kazuha pours the milk in the pot to get that going. When done he brings the mugs into the living room and sets them on the coffee table.

"Let it cool a bit, stir, then drink.''

"Understood. Do you want to get started?"

"Yes, I'll start with the album.'' Kazuha picks it up and opens it to a picture of Heizou with his mom, dad, and brother? ''Is this your brother?" Heizou nods. "He looks just like you.''

"I got that a lot, but we take after our mother.''

"I can see that with the eyes, hair, and moles.'' Kazuha turns the page which is just his mom and dad. After that was Heizou sparring with his brother. "Martial arts?"

"Yep.''

Kazuha glances at Heizou before picking up his mug. He does have a nice body and considering the stories he told him when it came to his job, he had to be in shape.

The next few pictures were of Heizou training, and holding medals he most likely won in tournaments, yet he wasn't smiling in any of them.

"You seem unhappy in these,''

"You noticed.''

"Is it something you don't want to talk about?"

''Depends, do you want to me to tell you about it?"

"Yes, because I want to know all I can about you,'' answered Kazuha, honestly.

"How can I say no to that?'' Heizou leans back. "It's nothing too serious, but my dad was a skilled martial artist and taught it as a result, so it was only natural that he taught me and my brother... Well forced is more like it.''

"Forced?"

"He wanted one of us to take over after him, and because I excelled at it, I was put under the most pressure.''

"And it really didn't hit how forceful he was until I was a little older. Even more so when I wanted to pursue becoming a detective. That's when...''

"Discord.''

Heizou nods. "Making me continue training and entering tournaments with threats of disowning me if I didn't... I almost left that house right then and there.

"Why didn't you?"

"I did eventually, but it wasn't because of my father. That just made it easier.''

"Was there any attempt to repair?"

"A few times, but it only resulted in more arguing, so I gave up.''

Kazuha places a hand over Heizou's. "Heizou, I-''

"I'm fine now, Kazuha,'' Heizou placed his hand on top of Kazuha's. "While I haven't completely forgiven my dad, I'm thankful for what he taught me.''

Kazuha can see Heizou was strong and has somewhat made peace with what happened, so he moves on.

The next picture was of a woman at a shrine.

"My cousin, Kano Nana.''

"The one you helped back then?"

"Mhm."

The next were of Heizou and his cousin from when they were young to present. Seems they got along well.

Kazuha reached the second to last picture that was of a young Heizou in a kimono at a festival, but the picture was wrinkly like it had been crumpled. He flips to the last page that was empty, but upon closer look, the page was torn as if a picture was roughly removed.

Kazuha looks at Heizou who just so happens to be in the middle of drinking his milk. When he lowers the mug, he closes his eyes and shakes his head. 

A silent, Don't ask, I'm not ready to talk about it... yet. Kazuha got the message and closed the album.

That's when Heizou puts down the mug, picks up the tablet, cuts it on, taps the photos app and hands it to Kazuha.

There were a lot of pictures in no particular order.

Pictures of Heizou at work, hanging out with his co-workers after, drinking at what Kazuha thinks is the bar Heizou mentioned, food trucks including the one they met at, and food in general. After that, is places that Heizou must have vacationed at. Kazuha can recognize Watatsumi Island. He did take note that most of if not all the pictures were in Inazuma.

Heizou lets out a yawn next to him and Kazuha looks at the time. It was getting late.

"Shall we get ready for bed?"

"Yeah, we should,'' Heizou says getting up and stretching before picking up their mugs.

Kazuha gets up as well. "I'm going to continue going through these pictures in the bedroom.''

"Okay, " Heizou says on his way to the kitchen.

Kazuha stops by the desk once again.

"Heizou?"

"Hm?''

"Why is the twenty-fourth circled on this calendar?"

"That's my birthday.''

Birthday? That's a couple of weeks away. How have they not asked about the other's birthday? Kazuha groans internally but he gets over it. "I see. Then I need to mark my calendar as well.''

Kazuha sits down on the edge of the bed, and undos his hair before he continues going through the pictures.

-

Though Kazuha hears Heizou when he  comes into the room he doesn't look up until he hears something drop.

"!!!" was their reaction to seeing the other.

"So that's what you look like with your hair down,'' Heizou says picking up the pillows and blankets he dropped.

"I can say the same,'' Kazuha says putting the tablet to the side.

Heizou hands Kazuha the pillows and blankets, then sits down on the opposite side of the bed.

No doubts that they were nervous.

"Guess we should go to sleep,'' Heizou says awkwardly and cuts off the lights and lays down. 

Kazuha follows, and when he looks at Heizou his eyes are already closed, so Kazuha does the same. But now he can't help but focus on his scent.

"...''

He opens an eye when he feels Heizou's hand on his head.

"Having trouble falling asleep?"

"Just a little hard to at the moment.''

Heizou's fingers start combing through his hair. It felt so nice that Kazuha closes his eyes, and was unable to stop the soft noises that occasionally came out.

Then it stops.

"Heizou?"

"Um...''

Kazuha opens his eyes to a blushing Heizou.

"I- I"m going to turn around,'' and he does.

"... I guess I will too.''

Back facing back.

"Good night Kazuha.''

"Good night Heizou.''

It was a while before the two of them fell asleep.

---

Kazuha woke to the smell of food and a empty bed. It was coming back, Heizou got up and told Kazuha that he'll be in the kitchen. He checks his phone and sees a text from Gorou.

Gorou: Hey, Kazuha. Kokomi and me are going to be in the city soon. Call me so we can make plans to meet up.

Kazuha sends a quick text back, then gets out of bed.

-

Kazuha walks into the living room to the smell of toasted bread and coffee.

"Morning, Kazuha,'' Heizou says walking over with two cups of coffee. He hands one to Kazuha and sets the other on the coffee table before going back into the kitchen.

"Morning,'' He smells the coffee. "Is this..."

Heizou holds up the spring blend coffee Kazuha bought for him. ''It is.''

Kazuha sits down on the couch. "You're just opening it today?"

Heizou comes back with a plate with two pieces of cheese toast on it and a bottle of honey. "I wanted to drink it with you,'' he says sitting down next to Kazuha.

"You didn't have to, but I wanted to try it...'' Kazuha dinks the coffee, and is impressed with the floral taste. He puts the cup down and picks up his toast and pauses when he sees Heizou pouring honey on his, so he does it too before eating it.''

"Incredible, I didn't know honey on cheese toast woul be so good.''

"Heh, heh, I'm an expert when it comes to toast. Sweet, savory, both, I can make it.''

Kazuha picks up his cup. "You have me curious.''

"I'll have to satisfy that then.''

Kazuha chuckle into his cup.

"So what do you want to do today?"

Kazuha sets his cup down and thinks. "Perhaps figure out the mystery as to why the handkerchief I gave you is framed on your shelf.''

"You saw that?"

"It wasn't hidden Heizou.''

"It was your first gift to me and...''

"I get it Heizou. I was only teasing.'' I didn't forget how you reacted to it when I gave it to you.

"Sure.''

"As for what we should do... Let's just take it easy today.''

Chapter Text

Since Gorou was running late, Kazuha decided to stand by under a tree and watch the people walk by.

They planned to meet at the shopping center earlier, but the temperature was a bit high so they moved it to the evening.

He sees Gorou in the crowd, waving to him when he spots him .

"Kazuha!" Gorou shouts before running over to him.

"Gorou, how are you?''

"Good. Kokomi apologizes for not being able to come. A sudden meeting left her drained.''

"It's fine. I understand how it is when her energy levels are low.''

"She'll probably be better in a day or so."

"That's good.''

"Ready to go?"

"Yes, but what reason brought you here today?"

"To buy some books for Kokomi, and the bookstore here is having a sale, but in-store only, so here I am with a list to purchase them.''

"Ah. Shall we then?"

-

Inside the bookstore, Kazuha and Gorou both get a basket and split the list so they they can complete the task quicker.

And while they did, Kazuha picks up a couple of books for himself before heading to the check out area where Gorou was waiting while reading a dessert cookbook.

"Planning to make something?"

Gorou jumped, spooked, closing the book. "I just think it's about time I start making them myself.''

"Allow me to try some when you do."

Gorou smiles, tail wagging. "Of course!"

They pay for their books and exit the store with Gorou holding a box.

"i know you requested it, but it's not too heavy is it?"

"It's not, plus I plan to put them into a suitcase when I get back to the hotel.''

"Okay, so what would you like to do next?"

"Maybe catch up and--'' Gorou is cut off by his stomach growling and Kazuha chuckles.

"How about we catch up at that cafe over there?"

-

Gorou's tail starts wagging again when a big slice of strawberry shortcake is sat in front of him.

"You didn't have to pay, Kazuha.''

"I wanted to,'' Kazuha says picking up his strawberry cake milkshake.

"Thank you,'' Gorou says and eats a forkful of cake.

It's when they are halfway done that Gorou decides to speak.

"Kazuha, don't you think it's time you told me the name of this 'friend' you've been seeing?"

Kazuha knew this was going to come up. "Shikanoin Heizou.''

"Whaaat?!"

That drew a few eyes, and Gorou apologizes to those nearby. He puts his face in his hands. "Of all the people... So that's why you never mentioned his name.''

"I remember you telling me about your unpleasant interaction with a 'detective with green eyes'... It clicked when Heizou told me he was a detective; even more so when he recognized you and Kokomi in a photo. I decided it would be best not to mention him by name to you yet.''

"Well thanks for that,'' Gorou groans. "Guess I have to accept you two are a couple now, huh?"

"We're not a couple... yet,'' Kazuha says, ignoring the sting in his chest.

Gorou raises his head. "What do you men by that? I was sure with they way you talked about him... Does it have to do with... you know...''

"A bit, and yes, Heizou already knows the surface details.''

"He's fine with that?"

"Yes.''

"I'll leave it alone, then.'' Gorou pokes at a strawberry. '' Not like anything I say about him will matter.''

"Probably, but I would like to know the other reason why you feel uneasy around him.''

Gorou freezes just as he is about to eat some more cake. "...'' He groans again. "Does the name Arataki Itto sound familiar?"

"He's known in Inazuma for a variety of reasons.''

"Well, I met him while setting up for a Miss Hina autograph session. He showed up early and mistook me for a fan and we ended up talking which ended with him asking if we could be friends.''

"What was your answer?"

"I'll think about it. That became my default answer anytime we ran into each other. And it was clearly bothering him since he started asking Miss Hina for advice which I only gave weak answers to. I felt so bad; especially after I stopped replying completely.''

"I still don't understand what Heizou has to do with that.''

"Going back to that autograph session... Guess who happened to show up after while I was still dressed as Miss Hina?"

"Heizou.''

"That's right.''

"Why was he there?"

"I don't know but I saw him talking to a woman with brown hair.''

His cousin probably. "So what did he say or do after seeing you?"

"He smiled and said, 'Oh, I see... but I don't have time to dwell.' and walked off.''

"And Mr. Arataki?"

"They're friends.''

"How do you Know?"

"Itto mentioned Shikanoin in a few of his letters to Miss Hina. That's why I stopped responding to Itto's letters,'' Gorou says, ears falling flat on his head.

"I get it now. You like Mr. Arataki, but you're worried Heizou might tell him about Miss Hina and make things more complicated.''

Gorou nods.

"Heizou wont tell.''

"How can you be so sure?"

"Because I know him a bit more than you do,'' Kazuha says picking up his glass and finishing the rest of his milkshake.

"... True.''

Kazuha sets the glass back down. "Also, if Mr. Arataki finds out, it wont be because of Heizou, and I think you know that deep down.''

"You're right, but I can't--''

"Your uneasiness around Heizou wont disappear in an instant, but you're going to have to make a choice regarding Mr. Arataki. Avoid him or approach him.''

"It bugs me that it's that simple...'' After thinking on it for a few seconds, he perks up. Alright! Next time I'm free I'll go find him and maybe take him up on his invites to the bar that he works at. Though there is a chance that I'll run into Shikanoin there and have to put up with his teasing.''

"That he might do.''

They both laugh and Gorou lets out a breath.

"Hah~ Feels like a weight has been taken off my shoulders.'' He picks up his fork. " Now I can enjoy the rest of my cake.''

After they finish their desserts, Gorou checks the time on his phone, and gets up quickly. "Sorry, Kazuha, I think we need to wrap this up.''

"How long till you leave?"

"A few hours, but I have to drop off a gift for Kujo Sara from Kokomi, go back to the hotel and pack up the books, and take a nap before heading back to Watatsumi.''

"Don't let me keep you.''

Gorou picks up the box of books. "It was good seeing you Kazuha, and thanks for everything today.''

They wave goodbye to each other, and Kazuha waits a few moments before leaving himself.

---

Kazuha walks around the shopping center doing a bit of window shopping.

Ring RIng Ring

He takes out his phone. It's Heizou. Must have gotten off early since he rarely calls Kazuha during work hours.

"Good evening, Heizou.''

"Kazuha, I got off early today.''

"I figured that. Where are you now?"

"At home. How was your time with Gorou?"

"Informative.''

"Did he have anything to say about me?"

Kazuha sighs. "You know he did.''

Heizou laughs. "I'm guessing it had to do with him being Miss Hina and whatever is going on between him and Itto.''

"Correct.''

"Does he know I have no interest in telling anyone?"

"I think he's on his way to accepting that.''

"I hope so.''

Kazuha pauses at a jewelry store; staring at the items on display in the window.

All of those would look good on Heizou.

"Kazuha? You there? Hello?"

He blinks. "Sorry, something came to mind just now.''

"What?"

"Your birthday.''

"What about it?"

"It's next week.''

"It is...''

"Do you have plans?"

"Hmmm... Co-workers normally  do a little something. At the bar I get free drinks. Then I get something eat, go home and watch a movie or something.''

Kazuha makes a note of that.

"Why are you inquiring? Do you want to do something?"

"If I did?"

"Alright.''

"Alright?''

"Why do you sound surprised?"

"I can tell you don't make a big deal about your birthday.''

"True, but I think you know you're the exception to that rule.''

Kazuha knew that, but it was nice to hear it aloud.

"I know,'' Kazuha whispers.

"Hey, what are you doing now?"

"Window shopping.''

"And after?"

"Going home."

It's silent for a moment and then-

"Do you want to stay at my place again?"

So soon? "Well it is closer...''

"Yep, and tonight you'll have the bed all to yourself.''

"Why?" Kazuha asked sounding a mix of upset and worry.

"Hold on! Don't get the wrong idea. I liked sleeping next to you- Actually, I need to talk to you about something regarding that...'' He trails off.

Huh? What could he want to talk about?

"Anyway, there's this movie trilogy that I've been putting off watching, and I plan on watching them tonight... Or try to. Either way, I'm going to be on the couch.

So that's it. "Bold of you to assume I wouldn't watch them with you.''

"That's fine too.''

"There's something I got to do first, then I'll be on my way.''

"Okay, see you soon.''

Kazuha puts his phone away and walks into the jewelry store.

Knowing exactly what he wants, he walks up to the counter.

"Excuse me. That item in the window, do you have it in red?"

Chapter Text

Kazuha takes out the key Heizou gave him and unlocks the door to the apartment.

He goes into the kitchen, takes the groceries out of the bags and places them on the counter. After that, he walks over to get Heizou's apron and finds a light red one next to it with a note stuck on it. He reads it.

It occured to me that since we'll be cooking together often, there should be another apron for you, so here you go. I hope you like it.

Kazuha takes a moment to admire how beautiful Heizou's handwriting is, then puts the note in his pocket before putting on the apron.

"I'll start with the cookies first.

-

While placing the cookies on the cooling rack, Kazuha gets a text from Heizou.

Heizou: I'm leaving work now.

Kazuha: Got it.

Now he can get started on the main dish.

---

Heizou checks his mailbox and as he thought, cards from his brother and Nana.

"..."

He puts them with the others then heads up to his apartment where the smell of food greets him when he opens the door.

He hurries taking off his shoes and goes into the kitchen where Kazuha stood at the stove wearing the apron he bought him.

"Welcome home, Heizou.''

Heizou dramatically clenches his shirt over his heart. "Kazuhaaa,'' he whined. "Hearing you say that does something to me. Ah~ I don't think i can handle it.''

Kazuha laughs. "I think it would be best that you get used to it,'' he says sounding both teasing and serious.

That also does something to me. He says in his head as he steps closer to see what Kazuha was cooking.

"Fried shrimp spring rolls, and for dessert, butter cookies.''

Heizou looks at the cookies. "Ooh, they're shaped like fried shrimp,'' he says, reaching out for one.

"No, Heizou,'' Kazuha says without looking.

"But it's my birthday...''

"And the birthday boy can wait.''

Heizou sighs, unserious. "Okayyy. I"m going to go take a quick shower.''

Kazuha nods and Heizou walks in the living room to drop his cards on the coffee table before going into the bathroom.

-

Heizou lets the warm water rinse him off as he gets lost in his thoughts.

Coming home to someone... Can I really get used to it? Well if it's Kazuha, yeah. I mean, that's why we're at this point. He turns off the water and shakes his head. "I seriously need to step it up.''

-

When he steps out of the bathroom, shuts the door and leans back on it, watching Kazuha as he sets everything on the table.

"Are you just going to stand there, Heizou,?'' Kazuha asked as he took a seat.

"Oh. Coming.'' Heizou walks over to the table and sits down. In front of him was a small dish of sauce and a empty wine glass. The spring rolls were stacked on a plate in the center along with the cookies in a basket, and a bottle of wine.

Of course Heizou took a picture.

"I read that white wine goes well with fried foods,'' Kazuha informs as he opens the bottle and fills their glasses.

"You're drinking too?"

Kazuha brings his glass closer. "This one is not as strong, so one glass should be fine.''

"If you're sure,'' Heizou says and picks up a spring roll, biting into it. "Mmm! Perfect!'' Next, he dips it into the sauce. "Sooo good! The sweet and spicy sauce pairs perfectly. You really outdid yourself, Kazuha!"

"Wow, you seem more excited. Is it because it's your birthday?"

Heizou drinks some of his wine. Maybe, but I think it's because you're here with me on my birthday.''

Kazuha blushes, distracting himself by picking up a spring roll. "S- So how did celebrating with your co-workers and friends at the bar go?"

"My co-workers gave me card and took me out to lunch. "And at the bar, I got my free drink and a few more cards.''

Kazuha gave Heizou a look that said, 'Anyone else?'.

"... I also got cards from my brother and my cousin.''

Kazuha smiled, but then it faded. "Only cards?"

Heizou picks up another spring roll. "That's what I prefer.''

Kazuha picks up his glass. "But I got you a gift.''

"It's different when it's you, Kazuha, and now I wanna see what you got me.''

Kazuha sips his wine. "In a bit.''

After they finish the spring rolls, Heizou pulls the basket of cookies towards himself and eats one.

"Buttery and tasty," he comments and eats another. "I could eat these in one go.''

"Please save some if you can.''

"I was planning to.''

-

After dinner and dessert, Kazuha does the dishes and since he refused Heizou's offer to help, Heizou decides to read the cards he got; putting them aside when Kazuha goes into the bathroom and comes back with a mirror and places it in front of Heizou.

"What's this, Kazuha? Does it have to do with my gift?"

"It's required, yes,'' Kazuha holds out a box to Heizou, who takes it and studies it.

Based on the type of box... Jewelry? There was no mistake about that, and when Heizou opens it, he gasps.

Inside the box is a red choker. Heizou takes it out, feeling the velvet on his fingers, but the main thing that caught his eye was the ruby pendant in a gold setting attached to it.

"K- Kazuha, is this a real ruby?" If it is, that means it was really expensive and-

"It is. May I?" Kazuha held out his hand for the choker and Heizou gives it to him.

"Did you know rubies bring success?" Kazuha asked as he puts the choker on Heizou. "They're like good luck charms.''

"I-'' Heizou gasps again when he feels Kazuha's finger under the choker checking to make sure it wasn't too tight. "I did...''

Kazuha removes his finger and places his hands on Heizou's bare shoulders, and looks at him in the mirror. "It looks good on you, and don't worry, the pendant is removable.''

Heizou lets out a relieved sigh.

"Do you like it?"

Heizou touches the pendant and finds his voice again. "I love it. It reminds me of you,'' he whispered that last part.

And Kazuha responds to that by wrapping his arms around him. "Happy birthday, Heizou,'' he says softly in his ear.

Heizou closes his eyes, trying to keep is emotions in check, and places a hand on Kazuha's arms.

-

Even though it felt like he didn't want to, Kazuha removes himself from Heizou.

"I'm going to get ready for bed,'' he tells Heizou before grabbing the mirror and going straight to the bathroom.

Hm? Did he already have his stuff in there? Anyway...

Once he's sure Kazuha's in the bath, Heizou takes some pictures of himself in the choker, because he's sure that's what Kazuha wanted to do. Actually he still might.

Satisfied with the pictures, Heizou goes into his bedroom, takes off the choker, puts it back in the box and places next to the handkerchief for the time being.

He then sits on the edge of the bed, takes out his phone to text his brother and Nana a thanks for the cards, and then puts his phone on silent. He'll check for the replies in the morning.

-

Not too long after, Kazuha enters the bedroom and gets into bed. Heizou turns off the lights and settles in as well.

They were both facing each other again, but it's strange how it doesn't feel as awkward this time. Still, Heizou feels the need to turn around and Kazuha must have sensed that because he suddenly pulls Heizou close to him.

Huh? Heizou's face was practically on his chest, but he doesn't panic. Instead, he gets side-tracked by Kazuha's scent.

Pumpkin? No, it's more like apples and spices. Heizou almost huffs out a laugh because, of course, Kazuha would smell like things associated with autumn.

Now putting that aside, Heizou needs to deal with the situation in front of him.

"Kazuha, it's a bit too warm for this.'' For a number of reasons.

Kazuha moves a bit, but still kept Heizou close. "I'll let you go... in a few minutes,'' he murmurs.

Heizou knows that's not going to happen so he lets him do what he wants. It's not like he hates it.

"Fine.''

Kazuha hums. "Good night, Heizou.''

"Night, Kazuha.'' He closes his eyes.

And thank you for an unforgettable birthday.

Chapter Text

"...Kazuha.''

Kazuha stirs. "Mmm...''

"Kazuha.''

Kazuha opened his eyes. "Yes, Heizou?"

"I'm leaving for work now.''

"That's right. Over an hour ago, Heizou wriggled himself away from Kazuha and told him he was going to get ready for work, among other things. Shame he didn't get a glance of his morning routine.

Kazuha sat up, rubbing the sleep out of his eyes. "I'll see you out,'' he said.

Heizou softly laughs. "You don't have to, but I wont stop you,'' he says and walks out the room, with Kazuha following after.

"Did you have breakfast?" Kazuha asked while Heizou was putting on his shoes.

"I had a smoothie with lots of fruits.''

"Okay.''

Heizou stands up. "I'll call you around lunch time. What time do you plan on leaving?"

"I suppose sometime after you call.''

Heizou nods and picks up his work bag. "Well, I'm off,'' he says and opens the door.

"Wait,'' Kazuha says suddenly, and when Heizou turns back, he hugs him. "Have a good day.''

Heizou lets out a breath before hugging him back. "I'll try,'' he says and pulls back, quickly walking out the door before Kazuha could see his blushing face.

But he does, of course, and smiles.

When the door shuts, Kazuha goes into the kitchen to fix himself a bowl of fruit and yogurt since Heizou already had chopped up fruit leftover in the fridge.

After breakfast, he watches some videos. Once he has his fill, he goes to Heizou's bookshelf and picks a thick book to read out on the balcony.

-

Kazuha closes the book and checks the time. "It was after one. Amazing how time flies when reading.

But more important, Heizou hasn't called. That means he got absorbed in a case which takes priority over many things.

Like eating.

Kazuha sighs, getting up and going back inside. He places the book back on the shelf then goes in the kitchen to make lunch for the both of them.

He puts on his apron and goes through the fridge and cabinets. He sets rice, eggs, tofu, chicken broth, seaweed flakes, butter, salt, pepper, and oil on the counter. After getting the rice going, he heats up two pans then chops up the tofu and beats a few eggs.

Today seemed like a good day for rice balls.

-

Kazuha puts the lids on the containers and places them in his bag.

He then checks to make sure everything was in order before leaving.

-

-

-

Kazuha calmly walked into the police station and up to the main desk. The secretary sitting there looked up at him from the computer.

"May I help you?"

"I'm here to give something to Shikanoin Heizou.''

''Name?"

"Kaedehara Kazuha.''

The secretary raised a brow at him before picking up the phone and pushing a button. "Detective Shikanoin, a Kaedehara Kazuha is here to see you.''

The secretary makes a face. "Yes, Kaedehara Kazuha- Hello?"

It isn't long before the elevator doors open and Heizou comes running out to Kazuha.

"Kazuha? What are you doing here- Ah. I forgot to call.''

"Mhm.''

"Sorry. Sorry. I was put on a case that was on warm until today and all my focus went into it,'' he sighs. "I didn't even have time for lunch today.''

"I guessed that,'' Kazuha takes out a container and hands it to Heizou. "That's why I brought you this.''

Heizou brightens as he takes the container. "A homemade lunch from you... Thank you. You didn't have to go through the trouble. I would have been okay with the snacks I keep in my office and if I'm desperate, the cafeteria... ''

"I don't think you would go to the cafeteria.''

"Ha ha ha, you're right.''

Kazuha zips up his bag. "Oh, before I forget...'' Kazuha takes out his wallet, opens a compartment and pulls out Heizou's key and holds it to him. "Your key back.''

"Huh? Why? That key is yours.''

"You were serious about that?"

Heizou sighs heavily. "There are many reasons why... But the one I'm choosing to say at the moment is that I want you to have it in case of emergencies.''

There's a pause then Kazuha chuckles. Because he knew what Heizou really wanted to say. "I hear you clearly, Heizou. How foolish of me to think you weren't serious.''

"You're forgiven.''

Kazuha puts the key and then his wallet away. "I don't want to take up anymore of your time so I'll-''

"Hold on, Kazuha. Since you are already here, do you want to see my office?"

Kazuha grips the strap of his bag. "Sorry, I'll have to decline today.''

Heizou saddens a bit. "I guess this isn't the best time, huh?"

"It's not really that, it's...'' Kazuha's eyes move left and right. Heizou follows and notices multiple eyes on them as well as whispers Kazuha could probably hear.

"Ah...''

"I would prefer not to be the center of attention, so I'll take my leave.''

"Yeah. Sorry, again. I'll call you later and if not, message.''

Kazuha smiles, waving as he leaves.

Now, all eyes were on Heizou.

"Man alive.''

-

-

-

After entering his apartment, Heizou cuts on the lights, dropping his bags on the couch before going into the kitchen.

He puts the container in the sink then goes in the fridge to grab a drink.

"Oh,'' he said after he sees the rice balls on the shelf inside.

"Let me call Kazuha,'' he says closing the fridge and taking out his phone.

...

"Hello, Heizou.''

"Hey, Kazuha. You still up?"

"Yes. I had a long nap earlier.''

"I see. I just wanted to tell you that your rice balls were delicious. Especially the ones with fried tofu and if I'm not mistaken, the ones with chicken broth and butter.''

"Wow. Since you seem to like them so much, would you like me to continue making you lunches?"

"Hmm... Every now and then might be good. After all, I still have places I want to take you to.''

"Noted.''

"Now... Tell me what you were up to while I was at work. I hope you weren't too bored by yourself.''

"Actually, I found myself engrossed in one of the novels on your shelf.''

"Which one?" Heizou asked excitedly.

"The one about the traveling poet... Would you like to hear my thoughts?"

"Yeah! Hold on, let me get comfortable,'' Heizou says going into the living room, moving his bags and sitting on the couch.

"Go ahead.''

Chapter Text

Chop Chop Chop

While dicing watermelon, Kazuha kept glancing at Heizou who was sitting in his living room working on his laptop.

A little while ago, Heizou showed up with his work bag and a rolling cooler. It was the middle of the work day so of course Kazuha had questions; which Heizou promised to answer later.

Kazuha simply nodded then directed his attention to the cooler that Heizou opened, revealing the watermelon that Kazuha was currently dicing up.

-

Heizou closed his laptop, snapping Kazuha out of his thoughts.

"Done?"

"No. My laptop was running hot.'' Heizou gets up, walks into the kitchen and looks at the counter. "Sure got a lot out of that watermelon.''

"It was rather big,'' Kazuha says, placing the watermelon in containers.

"Yeah. That's how I ended up with the cooler.

"Hm?"

"Some are hard to carry, for multiple reasons, so the seller had rolling coolers to solve that problem.''

"Smart,'' Kazuha says.

"But now I don't know what I'm going to do with it. Can I leave it here?"

"That's fine,'' Kazuha says and begins slicing off the rinds.

"The rinds too?"

"When pickled, they make a good snack.''

"Ohh, I want to try them when they're ready.''

"It'll be a week.''

"Let's have a snack date, then.''

"Maybe.'' Kazuha places the rinds in another container. "Would you like some watermelon, Heizou?"

Heizou sighs. "I do, but I wish you had sliced some into triangles.''

Kazuha picks up the containers and placed them in the fridge, then he takes out a plate with four triangle sliced watermelon on it and Heizou laughs.

"Seems you were thinking the same.''

Kazuha grabs the salt. "Want to eat them outside?"

Heizou perks up. "Yeah!"

-

Heizou goes ahead first, wanting to see how the yellow flowers were doing. He walks up to them, crouches and gently touches them. "Still healthy.''

At the picnic table, Kazuha sets the plate down, then looks up and sniffs the air. "It's going to rain soon.''

"Is it?" Heizou looks up. "I didn't check the weather today.''

"It's in the air,'' Kazuha says, sitting own on the bench, back against the table.

Heizou sits down next to him and picks up the plate. "Well we better enjoy these while the sun's out,'' he says and sets the plate between them. Both picking up a slice of watermelon and taking a bite.

"Sweet,'' they both say.

Heizou picks up the salt shaker and sprinkles some on his slice of watermelon. "Kazuha?"

Kazuha looks at him mid bite. "Hm?"

"Do you want to hear something interesting?"

Kazuha nods.

"It seems we were spotted on our dates by a few of my co-workers, and it spread around the station that I was seeing someone. Which was confirmed for them when you brought me lunch.'' Heizou takes another bite. "And not only that, they think we're living together.''

Kazuha lowers his arms, staring at his watermelon slice. "I can see how they came to that conclusion...'' He looks back at Heizou. "What was your response to all of that?"

Heizou picks up another slice. "I told them that I'm not living with anyone, but I didn't deny that I was seeing someone,'' he smiles at Kazuha. "Because I am.''

And Kazuha smiles back. "You are."

They both laugh, stopping when it darkens outside.

"It's here already?" Heizou says surprised.

Kazuha picks up his second slice. "Let's finish these and go back inside.''

They do just that, and are back inside right before the rain falls.

-

Kazuha goes back into the kitchen to put the plate in the sink, while Heizou sits on the rug with the doors slightly open.

"How do you feel about the rain, Heizou?'' Kazuha asked as he sits down next to Heizou.

"It's fine, unless you need to look for clues outside.''

Kazuha laughs, agreeing with him.

"What about you?"

"The rain by itself is fine. It's only a problem when it storms.''

Yeah, it can get pretty noisy when it storms... Heizou looks back at Kazuha who was looking outside with distant look in his eyes.

I wonder what he's thinking about? His past? Whatever it is, I don't want his mood to go down.

"Kazuha.''

Kazuha jolts, and turns to Heizou. "Ah, apologies, Heizou... Whatever you are thinking... I would probably agree with.''

Is that so? Heizou stretches out his legs and pats them. "Come here and lay your head on my lap.''

"I'm sorry?"

Heizou chuckles at his reaction. "You don't want to?"

"No, I want to..''

Heizou pats his legs again. "Then, what are you waiting for?"

Kazuha moves closer, staring at Heizou's legs with a faint blush on his face before laying his head down on them.

"Comfortable?"

Kazuha moves his head a bit. "Yes, comfortable... Just like your bed.''

"That's an interesting compliment,'' Heizou laughs and places a hand on Kazuha's head then starts combing through his hair; like he did when they first shared a bed. He hits his tie and takes it off and continues.

Kazuha closes his eyes, and since he seems to be enjoying it, Heizou gives it a few minutes before he answers Kazuha's question from earlier.

"Kazuha. About why I came over today...''

Kazuha opens his eyes. Letting Heizou know he was listening.

"There are days I could be working from home, yet I choose to work in my office most of the time.''

Kazuha doesn't say anything, so he keeps going.

"And since you're a part of my life now, I decided to take some time out of those days and spend it with you. How do you feel about that, Kazuha?"

Heizou could see that Kazuha was putting some thought into what he said.

"You're welcome to use my home as another office. With that said, don't stress yourself out.''

"Heh. If anything, I feel less stressed with my significant other nearby.''

Kazuha suddenly turns on his back so that he's looking up at Heizou who was confused by the sudden movement.

"So I'm your significant other?"

Heizou freezes. Did he say that out loud? When that realization hits, he blushes. Hard.

Calm down. Calm down. All I need to do is explain myself without freaking out.

"Kazuha I-'' Kazuha stops him with a finger to his lips.

"Do you want to take it back?"

Heizou's eyes widen and when Kazuha removes his finger, he answers.

"No.''

Kazuha smiles, then goes back to his original position and Heizou resumes combing through his hair until he drifts off to sleep.

Heizou stops, letting his hand rest on Kazuha's head as he watches him sleep.

He laughs softly.

Another unplanned confession, huh?

Chapter Text

"Is that...''

On his way to Heizou's apartment, Kazuha spots the man who's a suspect in the case Heizou was working on, sitting outside a cafe. Kazuha remembers seeing his picture on Heizou's laptop when he was at his house.

Just out in the open? Kazuha gets behind a nearby tree.

What should he do? Call Heizou? Yeah, that's a good idea, but when he takes out his phone to do so, a hand covers it and Kazuha looks up to find Heizou.

"Hei-''

"I got it from here,'' he says and walks past Kazuha, who barely had time to process. He just watches as Heizou approaches the man.

"Excuse me, sir,'' Heizou says with a smile.

The man looks up from his phone. "Who the hell are you?"

Heizou sits down. "Let's just say someone aware of everything you've done and plan to do, and is giving you the chance to confess and turn yourself in.''

The man glares. "So you're one of them... You think I won't cause a scene and run away?"

Heizou rests his head in his hand. "You can, but you won't get very far.''

Kazuha looks at the people sitting at the tables around them who seem a little too calm and figures it out.

The man was starting to sweat.

"Also... We found your hideout and wow...''

The man glances at the phone he tightly gripped.

"Oh, and we got your 'friend' already.'' Heizou laughs. "I mean, why do you think you're sitting here in the first place?"

Enraged, the man gets up, roughly grabbing Heizou by the front of his shirt, and pulling him up. "You-!"

Heizou remains calm. "If you come with me, peacefully, things will turn out better for you, but if you get violent...''

Heizou's tone change and cold look in his eyes causes Kazuha to shudder. He didn't need to finish his sentence.

Shaking, the man lets him go and takes a step back falling down in the process.

Heizou walks over and looks down at him and smiles, still cold. "So, what will it be?"

The frightened man chokes out an 'okay' and Heizou takes out his cuffs and places them on the man. Then he takes out his phone and makes a call.

Kazuha sees a couple of people getting up and going inside. Most likely to explain and discuss the situation.

Heizou walks by Kazuha. "Follow me,'' he says, and he does until they arrive at a car with one of Heizou's co-workers standing by it.

"Good job, Shikanoin.''

"Thanks. Can you take him to the station?"

"Me? Why?"

"I have business with this person, here,'' he says, gesturing to Kazuha.

The co-worker looks at Kazuha and laughs. "Sure, I'll go ahead then.''

"Appreciate it.''

As soon as the car dives off, Heizou turns to Kazuha. "Let's go.''

"Where?"

"To the station.''

"Not that I mind, but why are we walking?"

"I do this often to clear my head.''

"Okay.''

-

-

-

They enter Heizou's office and Kazuha looks around at the blue-gray walls that held frames; some of which are awards. Several cabinets, a couple of bookcases, a couch, a table, and of course, a desk in front of a window.

Kazuha places his bag on the table and sits down on the couch, while Heizou goes over to his desk, but he doesn't get a chance to sit down when his office phone rings.

He pushes a button and answers it. "Yes? Shikanoin here.''

"Your presence is needed, Detective Shikanoin.''

"On my way,'' he says and leaves the office. Kazuha is thrown off until Heizou returns with a cold dink for Kazuha and sets it on the table.

"Questioning. It's going to be a while, so help yourself to the snacks in the cabinet over there. Or if you want to take a nap, a blanket.''

Was it really going to be that long? "Alright.''

Heizou walks back to the door. "I'll see you later,'' he says then leaves.

When the door shuts, Kazuha gets up to look in the cabinet. He wasn't hungry at the moment, but he wanted to see what was inside.

Kazuha opens it, not shocked that it was well stocked.

Meat sticks, cup ramen, sweets chips, protein bars, dried fruit snacks and gummies, coffee, powdered drinks, and bottled water. There was even an electric kettle.

"I see now,'' Kazuha says and closes the cabinet. He then goes back to the couch where he receives a text from Xinyan wanting him to listen to her new songs and send feedback. Kazuha sends her an 'ok' and takes out his headphones.

---

Heizou returns three hours later, and plops down next to Kazuha. He leans back, closes his eyes and exhales.

Kazuha takes out his headphones and puts his phone down. "Did everything go well?"

"Yeah, but now comes the rest.''

"The rest?"

"Organizing, contacting, returning, documenting, and of course, writing a report.''

"Isn't that normal?"

"Yes, but today I have a guest,'' he says and smiles.

"Do you want me to leave?"

Heizou opened his eyes. "I haven't started yet, so no.''

Kazuha chuckles. "Then do you want something to snack on?"

"What?"

"I mean what I brought.'' Kazuha pulls the bag on the table closer.''

"I thought that looked like a cooler bag,'' Heizou straightens up. "What's in there?"

Kazuha unzips the bag and takes out the container inside.

"Are those the pickled rinds?"

"I was on my way to drop them off at your apartment. I left you a message letting you know.''

"You did?" Heizou takes out his phone and checks his messages. "You did. It was buried.''

"Understandable, considering what happened today.''

"Sorry, but back to you wanting to leave the rinds at my place.''

"In case you were too busy, and you really wanted to try them..''

"I wanted to eat them with you.''

"Well now you can.''

"True,'' Heizou laughs, and gets up to go buy them drinks. He comes back to Kazuha opening the container and taking out chopsticks, handing a pair to Heizou after he sits down.

Heizou tries one of the rinds.

"Oh, this is different. Salty, not bitter, and a tiny bit of sweetness. I'm surprised how strong the watermelon taste is.''

"I added a little bit of watermelon juice.''

"That's it,'' Heizou says eating a few more. "Kazuha, do you want to know about my case?"

"You can talk about it?'' He asked after picking up a rind.

"A little.''

"Then, yes.''

Heizou drinks some of his soda before starting. "So the man arrested today robbed several houses with plans to sell the stolen items online at high prices.''

"That's...''

"The worst of it is that he was convinced to go after bigger targets, and based off what was found in his hideout, he was ready to harm people and cause major damage to do so.''

"He admitted it?"

"Yeah,'' Heizou sighed.

"Well, it's a good thing you got him before it got that far.''

"That's what I always aim for...''

"...'' Kazuha makes a mental note of the subtle something mixed in with what Heizou said.

And Heizou notices. "Anyway, like I said before, I got a lot to do so you can-''

"Can I stay?"

"...Eh?''

Kazuha gets closer. "Honestly, you're quite fascinating to watch.''

Heizou moves away a bit, but Kazuha only gets closer again.

"Also, didn't you say you are more comfortable with your significant other around?"

Heizou frowns. "I said less stressful,'' he whispers.

"Both are right,'' Kazuha says enjoying the situation.

"Please Kazuha, don't tease me.''

"Then can I stay?"

Heizou looks away. "You can stay.''

"Thank you, Heizou,'' Kazuha says softly.

Clearly overwhelmed, Heizou gets up and goes to sit down at his desk, laying his head face down on it, while Kazuha smiles at his victory.

Chapter Text

Kazuha paused before knocking on Heizou's door; remembering that Heizou told him to let himself in since he'll be in the bath by the time he arrives.

He's taking me out tonight, Kazuha thought, so once he entered the apartment, he went straight into the bedroom to get ready himself. And he's about to take off his shirt, when Heizou walks in. With only a towel on.

"Kazuha!'' Heizou exclaimed. Spooked.

"Hello Heizou,'' Kazuha says definitely not staring at Heizou's eyes.

"Hey,'' he says and walks to his dresser. "I know I said to let yourself in, but I was prepared to see you on the couch, not in my bedroom.''

Kazuha's eyes continue to linger; this time on Heizou's back. "I needed to change... Apologies.''

After getting what he needs, Heizou closes the drawer. "It's fine. I have most of my things in the bathroom, so I'll finish in there.''

Kazuha nods.

Heizou leaves the bedroom with a knowing smile on his face, and Kazuha continues getting ready. After he finishes, he goes into the living room and sits on the couch unable to to get Heizou's body out of his mind.

The bathroom door opens and out comes Heizou in a black tank, brown pants and most importantly the red choker he gave him. Sadly, without the ruby pendant.

Kazuha gets up, walks to him and touches the choker. "Your wearing it.'' 

"I consider this a special occasion.''

Kazuha slides a finger across the choker and when Heizou shudders, he sighs internally and removes his hand.

"So, what is the occasion tonight?''

Heizou snaps out of his daze. "I- I'm taking you to Kuki's.''

"Kuki's?''

"The bar I like to go to.''

Kazuha's eyes widen. "Really? I've been looking forward to you taking me.''

"I know. Sorry it took so long.''

Kazuha shook his head. "It's fine. Is there anything I should know before we go there?"

Heizou hums in thought as he walk to the entrance with Kazuha following. "The bar is ran by my friend Kuki Shinobu and you already know Itto works there...''

"That's all?"

"Anything else you'll see for yourself.'' Heizou starts putting on his shoes. ''Also, I"m sure you and Shinobu will talk.''

"I suppose,'' Kazuha says, also putting on his shoes.

Once both have their shoes on, Heizou looks at Kazuha. "Ready to go?"

"Yes.''

---

When Kazuha and Heizou enter the bar, the bell on the door jingles alerting who Kazuha believes is Kuki Shinobu behind the counter.

"Heizou and his... 'not' boyfriend, right? Welcome.''

Kazuha and Heizou laugh as they take a seat at the counter.

"Hello Miss Shinobu. I'm Kaedehara Kazuha.''

"Just call me Shinobu.'' she tells him and stares at him. "Heizou, you were right. He does have pretty eyes.''

Kazuha, puzzled, turns to Heizou.

"I know, and no hitting on him,'' he says joking.

"Oh, you don't have to worry about that,'' Shinobu says taking out two menus from under the counter and handing them to Kazuha and Heizou.

Kazuha open his and starts browsing. The mocktails look good... but that's not what I'm here for. Kazuha looks at Heizou who was focusing on the food section of the menu.

"What's up?" Heizou asked when he notices Kazuha looking at him.

"What do you normally get?"

"I tend to pick from the whiskey section of the menu.''

Kazuha looks at said section and closes the menu. "I'll have a Sweet Manhattan.''

"Going for sweet? A whiskey sour for me.''

"And would you two like any food to go with your drinks?"

"You've already decided haven't you?" Kazuha says to Heizou.

Heizou closes his menu and smiles. "Six chicken and onion skewers. Three black pepper and three spicy honey.''

Shinobu writes down their food order and sends it to the kitchen before getting started on the drinks. And as she does so, Kazuha looks around the bar.

Nicely lit and decorated, a stage, area to drink outside... Overall it reminded Kazuha of Heizou's favorite restaurant.

Shinobu strains Kazuha's drink into a martin glass and adds a cherry before sliding it to him.

"One Sweet Manhattan, enjoy,'' she says and starts on Heizou's drink.

Kazuha thanks Shinobu then picks up his glass and takes a sip. Impressed, he takes another.

"Slow down there, Kazuha,'' Heizou says and chuckles.

Kazuha lowers his glass. "I've only had two sips. That aside, remember your promise.''

"I know, I know,'' he responds with just as Shinobu slides him his drink.

"Your whiskey sour.''

"Thanks,'' he says and takes a sip. "As usual, delicious.''

"Thanks,'' she says and clears off the counter before going into the kitchen.

Kazuha sips his drink again. "I haven't seen Itto yet. Is he off tonight?"

"No. He's probably out handling deliveries,'' Heizou answers after a sip.

"Deliveries?''

"The food here s so good that people have asked if Shinobu does take out or catering, so she decided to give it a try. It's been successful so far, but she only does it on Fridays and Saturdays.''

"Now I really want to try the skewers.''

"You won't be disappointed.''

Kazuha's eyes fall on Heizou's glass.

Heizou follows his line of sight. "Do you want a sip?"

"Can I?"

"Sure. If i can have a sip of yours.''

Kazuha looks in his glass. "There's about two sips left.''

"Not like I have much left either.''

They swap drinks and Kazuha takes a sip, but makes the mistake of looking at Heizou and couldn't focus on the taste of the drink.

The way he held the glass, his smooth lips on the rim, eyes closed, head tilted back as he drinks... He was so elegant and mesmerizing.

Heizou sighs after putting the glass down. He takes out the cherry and holds it up to Kazuha's mouth.

"???"

"You should have the last of it.''

Kazuha sets his glass down, leans in and bites it off the toothpick without question.

"How is it, sweet?"

Kazuha nod and swallows; feeling a little warm.

Shinobu suddenly sets down a plate, making Kazuha and Heizou jump. "Okay you two. Here's your skewers. And I'm sure you both want another drink, so what will it be?"

"Ginger rum topped with ginger ale,'' Kazuha says first, having already decided when he saw it on the menu.

"Rum and cola,'' Heizou says after tearing his eyes away from the skewers.

"Got it.''

Kazuha could see Heizou was ready to eat, but he holds out until Shinobu finishes their drinks, and puts them in front of them.

"Great, now we can eat.'' Heizou picks up a skewer and bites off a piece of chicken, then drinks some of his rum and cola. "Hah~ Guess you want me to eat these myself huh, Kazuha?"

"Can't let that happen,'' Kazuha laughs and picks up a spicy honey skewer, takes a bite then a drink after. "Hah~''

"Exactly.''

Kazuha has to agree.

They continue eating, barely talking, until the plate and glasses are empty.

"How are you feeling, Kazuha?"

"Fine.''

"Not tipsy or anything?"

Kazuha shakes his head.

"Mm, okay. One more drink and then we can-''

"Heizou!!!'' Came Itto's voice after coming out the back.

"Urk.''

Kazuha holds back a laugh.

Itto pats him on the back. "Hey man, it's been a while.'' He looks at Kazuha. "Who's this?"

"Kaedehara Kazuha. And you're Arataki Itto, correct?"

Itto points to himself. "The one and only. And any friend of Heizou's is a friend of mine.''

"Glad to hear.''

"Itto...'' Shinobu says, not happy. "You were gone longer than usual. Did something happen?"

"Yeah. I got challenged to a frisbee throwing match and I couldn't turn it down.

"At night?" Shinobu shook her head. "I told you to save it after work.'' She pinches the bridge of her nose. "But I should be used to it.''

"Yeah, yeah.'' His attention goes back to Heizou. ''Heizou, my man, your advice worked. Gorou agreed to come by.''

"That's great,'' Heizou looked at Kazuha who looked back at him with a small smile on his face. "Anyway, I"m here with Kazuha now...''

"I need some more advice.''

"Right now?"

"Yep, so let's go out back and talk,'' Itto says pulling Heizou up by his arm. Heizou looks at Kazuha distressed.

"Kazuha, why are you not saying anything? You're a part of this too.''

"He specifically wants your advice. Don't worry, I'll be here when you get back.''

"Kazuhaaaaa!'' Heizou yells as he's pulled away by Itto.

Shinobu shakes her head at the ridiculousness then looks at Kazuha. "You good with just letting him get dragged off like that?''

"It's fine. He wanted us to talk.''

"Not in the way he expected, though.''

Kazuha laughs. ''Probably.''

"Alright. Do you want another drink before we get started?"

"Just water, please.''

Shinobu pours Kazuha a glass of water, tells another bartender to take over, then walks out from behind the counter and sits next to Kazuha.

"You want to talk about Heizou, right?"

Kazuha drinks some of his water. "I want to know as much as I can about him.''

"Ask away, then.''

Kazuha sets his glass on the counter. "How did you two meet?"

"Getting Itto out of jail for a crime he didn't commit. The person who framed him was involved in a case Heizou was working on.''

"How did you two become friends?"

"Itto gave him a card to my bar. He visited, said he liked the place, became a regular, and naturally we talked and got along. Next thing I know, we're friends.''

Pretty straightforward.

"I can see why he likes it here.''

"Yeah... He's been a big help in more ways than one.''

Kazuha noticed Shinobu looking at the stage as she said that. "What do you mean by that?"

"It's not really important now. Anything else you want to know?"

"Can you tell me about his romantic life?"

Shinobu chuckles. "I was waiting for that question. Not that there is anything to it. He hooked up with someone when he needed to blow off some steam. But that doesn't mean he didn't do it for fun. He was really popular.''

"I guess you witnessed it a lot didn't you?"

"Actually, he turned down any attempts here.''

"That does sound like him,'' Kazuha laughs.

"Ah, but he hasn't been active since-''

Heizou returns before Shinobu could finish her sentence.

"I'm back, Kazuha,'' Heizou says looking tired.

"You got away?"

"More like someone called just in time.''

Shinobu stands. "Where's Itto?"

"A friend of his tipped him off about some limited edition beetle figurine and he took off.''

"That- I think I know where he went...'' Shinobu sighs. "Before I go chase him down, do you two want another drink?"

Heizou looked at Kazuha. "Kazuha?"

"Yes. I'll have a whiskey sour,'' he says and smiles at Heizou.

Heizou smiles back. "Then I'll have a Sweet Manhattan.''

Shinobu nods, making their drinks perfectly despite being annoyed.

Kazuha and Heizou enjoy them and leave after Heizou pays.

---

Heizou lets out a breath once they're outside. "So what do you think of Shinobu's bar?"

"I enjoyed my time here, so I hope you bring me here again.''

"Anytime,'' Heizou says and they start walking back to Heizou's apartment.

It's a few minutes before Heizou asked the question Kazuha was anticipating.

"How did your talk with Shinobu go?"

"I learned quite a bit about you,'' Kazuha answers honestly.

"I bet you did,'' Heizou sighs, then stops walking with Kazuha stopping as well. "I'm going to go ahead and nip this in the bud... After meeting you, I haven't hooked up with anyone.''

How many confessions is that now? Kazuha doesn't dwell on it. Instead, he focuses on his response to what Heizou said.

"Good. Let's keep it-''

A press of Heizou's lips on his cheek stops Kazuha mid sentence. Kazuha touches his cheek before he turns to Heizou once again puzzled. "What was that for?"

"Just another thing I should have done sooner.''

But you have. Is what Kazuha wanted to say, but couldn't. Because one, this was different. And two, he was still kind of in shock. Which worried Heizou.

"Kazuha?"

Kazuha blinks, placing a hand over his heart. "I'm fine. I just need my heart to calm down before we continue.''

"Okay?"

Kazuha leans against a wall. Once his heart is back to a steady beat, he looks at Heizou fixated on a flier pinned to a message board. He walks over to see what it says.

"Ah, the summer festival. It's about that time isn't it?"

Heizou hums.

Kazuha had a feeling something was wrong, but he still asked.

"Do you want to go together?"

Chapter Text

Heizou sat the teapot and cups on the coffee table then fell back on the couch, covered his eyes with his arm, and let out a heavy breath.

After Kazuha asked him if he wanted to go to the festival together, he answered 'I guess we can go' in such a distant and unsure way that it left Kazuha speechless. Luckily, it didn't impact him staying over at Heizou's apartment, but the walk to it was silent, and when they got there, Kazuha said he would sleep on the couch. Then he left first thing in the morning. Of course he told Heizou before leaving, but it still stung even though he expected it.

For the week after, their only interactions were texting good morning and good night to each other.

Until today, the day of the festival. And Heizou would be lying if he said it wasn't affecting him; especially since Kazuha has called him more than once today and he hasn't answered.

For good reason though; because knowing Kazuha he'll-

Knock Knock Knock

Heizou sat up. It was as he thought. Kazuha even came over early.

Heizou gets up and walks to the door. As soon as he opens it, Kazuha rushes in and hugs him. Heizou pats and rubs his head softly. "I'm sorry, Kazuha. Come on, I have tea ready, so we can talk.''

Kazuha pulls back and looks at him with worried eyes. "You knew I would come?"

Heizou shrugs. "My intuition...''

Kazuha smiles a bit. "Yeah.''

They sit on the couch and Heizou pours them some tea, knowing that they will sit there untouched. After filling the cups, Heizou leans back, inhales then exhales, preparing himself while Kazuha waits patiently.

"Kazuha, you probably think I hate festivals, but I'm just going to say that's not the case.''

Kazuha nods.

"You see, when I was younger, I made a friend at a festival.'' A pause. "And I lost that friend at a festival.''

Kazuha's eyes widen and Heizou tells him the story of what happened. During, Kazuha saw that Heizou was getting overwhelmed, so he grabs his hand and intertwines their fingers.

It calmed him as he continued.

-

''...next thing I knew I was back home, in my room on the floor with a storm of emotions going through me. And after a month of thinking, I was ready to give everything I had into becoming a detective.''

"So...'' Kazuha starts.

"Go on.''

"So it was after finding your resolve that you left home?"

"Yep.''

"And the damaged pictures and pages in your photo album?"

"I wasn't as over what happened as I thought... I still have the pictures.''

Kazuha took a moment before asking his next question and Heizou had an inkling what he was about to ask.

"Have you been to festival since then?"

I knew it. "At first I couldn't after the incident. Just thinking about it made me sick or panic. But... little by little, I attempted. At the very least I wanted to be able to stay long enough to walk around. Though I haven't been able to make it to the end.'' He looks at Kazuha softly. "But I want to, tonight.''

"... Don't force yourself.''

"It's our first festival together, and I want to see the fireworks with you.''

"... I do too.''

Heizou moves his eyes to the ceiling, relieved. He then feels Kazuha moving which makes him realizes that he was still holding his hand. He looks at him reaching for his teacup.

"You're going to drink that? It's probably cold by now.''

Kazuha nods. "You went through the trouble of making it, so please allow me to drink it.''

Heizou laughs. "Go ahead, then.''

Kazuha drinks it. "It's fine,'' he says and puts the cup down and removes his hand from Heizou's, patting his thighs after. "Come here.''

Heizou does so instantly. "I still want to go to the festival.''

"I know, but we still have time.''

"Okay, but I'm not going to sleep, so let's watch a movie or something.''

"Alright.''

That was the plan, but they both end up falling asleep over halfway through.

---

Two hours later, they were on their way to the festival.

"Didn't think you'd fall asleep too, Kazuha.''

"Well it's good you had an alarm set.''

"Just in case.''

They stop at the entrance and Heizou's heart starts racing as it always does, but then he feels Kazuha's hand on his back and looks at him.

"I'm right here,'' he says.

"I know. Let's go.''

-

Heizou looks around at the lights, the stalls, and the people.

"What do you wat to do first?" Kazuha asked.

"Hmmm... Play some games until I work up an appetite.'' What he really wanted to do was win a prize to give to Kazuha.

"Okay, how about-''

"Kazuha, is that you?!"

Heizou and Kazuha turn to the orange-haired woman running up to them.

"Yoimiya, hello,'' Kazuha said.

"Hey, Kazuha, and...'' She looks at Heizou. "Detective,'' she says with less energy.

Kazuha looks between them. "Did you have a run in with each other?"

Heizou crosses his arms. "Attempting to test fireworks in multiple places without permission as well as noise complaints.''

"Hey, I get permission now.''

"See how easy it is?"

"Yeah, yeah. Anyway, you two are staying for the show, right?"

Heizou and Kazuha look at each other. "We'll see,'' they say together.

"Well, I hope you do.'' She checks the time on her phone. "I gotta go. There is still some final things I need to do,'' she says and runs off.

Kazuha looks back at Heizou. "Now about those games...''

-

They start with super ball scooping; which turns into a contest to see who could scoop up the most, and Heizou quickly learns how competitive Kazuha was.

Heizou just beats him by two, and they collect their winnings and move on to yo-yo fishing which they didn't compete at.

While waiting for their turn at ring toss, Kazuha gets called out to and excuses himself with Heizou letting him know he'll still be in the area. This was perfect. Now he can go back to the shooting game which he passed on purpose because he saw the prize he wants to give to Kazuha.

One of the prizes was a sparkly red hair bow that would look good on Kazuha. It was great that it was still there, but that means it was probably tough to get.

Heizou is handed the gun with three shots. He fails on two shots, but on the third, he manages to knock it off balance and it falls.

"Yes,'' he says and is given the prize. He looks at it and chuckles wondering if Kazuha would wear it before putting it away. After doing so, he feels something hit his shoe.

He looks down. "A ball?" He picks it up and sees that it's a prize from one of the games. Who does it belong to?

"...see, I told you you would lose it. You just had to mess with it.''

Heizou looks up to see two distressed boys looking around for something.

"...but you won it for me, so of course I was going to look at it.''

"Yes, but you're clumsy and have slippery fingers, not to mention it's crowded and busy. What did you think was going to happen?" the friend scolds.

The boy sulks. "J- just help me.''

"I am, but it's probably a lost cause.''

"Don't say that!"

Heizou walks up to the boys. "Is this what you're looking for?" Heizou holds out the ball.

The boy's eyes light up. "Yes!'' he says and takes the ball. '' Thank you Mister.'' He turns to his friend. "See, I got it back.''

Heizou briefly noticed the relief on the friend's face.

"Great. Now put it away and don't take it out until you're back home.''

The boy smiles. "Fine,'' he says, doing what he was told. Then he turns to Heizou. "Thank you again.'' He lightly elbows his friend.

"Yeah... Thanks,'' the friend whispers.

Heizou chuckles. "No problem. You two enjoy the rest of the festival.''

"We will!'' The two boys leaving waving once more before disappearing into the crowd.

Heizou stands there, feeling a certain way he can't describe.

"How nice,'' Kazuha says suddenly behind him, causing Heizou to jump.

"Really, Kazuha?"

Kazuha giggles. "Sorry for taking long.''

"No worries. I kept myself busy.''

"I saw.''

"Who were you talking to for so long?"

"Family friends who I haven't seen for a while.''

"Not unexpected to run into them here, huh?"

"Would you like me to cut my conversations short going forward?"

Heizou shakes his head. "No way. Consider it part of me learning more about you.''

Kazuha's eyes sparkle at that and Heizou gets lost in them for a moment, until his stomach growls snapping him out of it.

"Sounds like you worked up an appetite.''

Heizou did eat light today.

"Yeah, but now the question is what to get...'' He drifts off looking around at the food stalls. "Ah!'' His eyes land on a yakisoba stall.

"Yakisoba it is,'' Kazuha said.

Heizou goes over to get them some, while Kazuha buys them drinks. After, they find a place to sit and eat

Heizou opens the container of the still hot noodles, picks some up, and blows on it before eating.

"Delish!"

"Has it been that long?"

"Eating festival yakisoba? Yes.''

Kazuha eats some of his. "How are you doing?" He asked after.

Heizou opens his drink. "Fine.''

He looks out into the crowd, seeing everyone enjoying themselves. He spots a few of his co-workers and waves at them when they walk by. "Of course I'm going to think about it, and it's been a while since I've enjoyed being at a festival... I have to get used to it again, you know.''

"I think I understand,'' Kazuha says opening his drink as well.

-

After eating, Heizou and Kazuha get shaved ice to eat while they walk around.

"I got blueberry lemonade and you got... watermelon. How are you not tired of it?"

"Shaved ice is different,'' Kazuha says after a spoonful.

"Still watermelon flavored.''

"It's actually sour watermelon.''

"Slightly different.''

"Would you like a taste?"

"Sure. You can taste mine too.''

Kazuha scoops a spoonful and feeds it to Heizou and smiles at the face he makes.

"That might be too sour, Kazuha,'' Heizou says eating some of his to cancel out the sour.

"Is it?''

"How are you not reacting?"

"I've had much more sour things.''

"Right.'' Heizou scoops another spoonful to feed to Kazuha.

"And yours might be too sweet, but I like it.''

"Heh, heh.''

"Well, well. Look who it is. Kazuha and Detective Shikanoin.''

"Thoma?" Kazuha says surprised. "I thought you were in Fontaine with Ayaka and Ayato.''

Oh, yeah. Even Heizou was aware of that.

"I was, but they insisted I come back and enjoy the festival.''

"You missed last year's because you were sick, correct?''

"That's right.'' He looks at Heizou. "So what's up, you two on a date?''

"Things spread fast, huh?" Heizou said.

Thoma laughs.

"What about you?" Kazuha asked.

"I'm going to go see Itto.''

"Why?'' Heizou asked.

''He's got some kind of beetle battle tournament going on.''

"Of course he does.''

"He's fond of beetles isn't he?" Kazuha said.

"Wanna come with?"

"No, thank you,'' Kazuha says.

"Same,'' Heizou says after.

"Really? You, Kazuha? But I get it. I'll see you two later.'' And with that, Thoma leaves and Heizou and Kazuha continue walking.

Though in the end, they find themselves curious and stop by the mini tournament hosted by Itto that had a sizeable crowd. Shinobu was there keeping an eye on things. They say hello real quick.

-

It was almost time for the fireworks, so Heizou and Kazuha decide to find a spot to watch. They find one not too far out and sit down on the grass and wait.

Since they were waiting, Heizou decides to go ahead and give Kazuha his gift and takes it out. "Here, Kazuha. I won this for you.''

Kazuha takes the little baggie and takes out the bow. "What a pretty hair bow. Is this what you were heavily focused on winning?"

"You saw?"

"When I glanced to see what you were doing, but I didn't see what you were aiming for.'' Kazuha continues looking at the bow. "What made you want to win me this?"

Heizou averts his eyes and scratches his cheek. ''Just a thank you for always being with me.''

"Oh...'' Kazuha blushed. ''I don't know what to say.''

The look on your face is enough.

Kazuha carefully put the bow back into the bag. "Umm...''

"Hm?''

"Do you want to come back together next year?"

Only a moment passes before Heizou opens his mouth, but before he could answer, the first firework shoots up and explodes in the sky.

They both look up at them as they go off, but then Heizou finds himself looking at Kazuha, entranced by the fireworks. He scoots as close as he can get to him, and their fingers intertwine again.

I'll give him my answer later.

-

When they return to Heizou's apartment, exhaustion hits Heizou and he collapses on the couch. Kazuha lets him be until he's done getting ready for bed and urges Heizou to do the same.

-

He joins Kazuha in bed later. The latter pulling him close.

"Kazuha?"

"Mm?''

"Yes, let's go to the festival together next year.''

Kazuha doesn't say anything; he just pulls Heizou closer.