rabenhorst (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
rabenhorst) wrote2007-10-16 06:29 pm
rabenhorst) wrote2007-10-16 06:29 pm
(no subject)
Title: First Love, Last Love; Chapter 7
Author:![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
seinen_no and fonulyn
Rating: NC17 overall
Pairing: Die and Kaoru
Disclaimer: We own no one, only our dirty imaginations.
Summary: When Kaoru and his wife get a divorce, he is forced to leave his little daughter to live with her mother when he’s moving out. He finds support in his best friend, but is friendship everything life has in store for them? Or is their past together going to resurface now that Kaoru’s life has been turned upside down?[yes, I am aware that sounds like an ad for a b-class soap opera XD]
Comments:
seinen_no: Hey babes! Back already x) Hmm, I still lack proper things to say, but I love the first scene of this chap a hell lot. It's been so nice to re-read it (yeah, this time I took the effort to even do that. I'm still threatened by this damn cold, but as it seems, I'm winning^^). So, as usual, have fun reading!
fonulyn: I think this chapter is kinda important when it comes to their relationship and how it’s developed and how they feel for each other. Although I have to admit, it didn’t turn out exactly like I wanted so I don’t know if the things are too subtly mentioned to get them really XD I hope the point comes across though. And enjoy the chapter dears!
And feel free to add our journal if you like the stories!
Plus, the archive .
Previously happened: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6
First Love, Last Love
Chapter 7
"Do you want a golden one? Somehow I think that's old fashioned, but then again, it's a classic." Kaoru was bowing down so lowly that he almost pressed his nose against the glass of the jeweller’s display. One could plainly see that he was enthusiastic about this. After Die had mentioned it, he had taken it to heart and although he knew that the redhead had mainly only wanted to tease him, Kaoru had simply dragged his lover to the city one Sunday morning, merrily announcing that they would go ringshopping. "Maybe we should have some custom-made, or then just very simple ones. The kind that usually nobody notices and which still have a certain class."
"I think simple ones would be the best." Die looked through the examples of rings carefully, trying to spot if there was something that would suit them well. "But it doesn't mean there couldn't be a catch in them, you know? Simple, but not quite ordinary." He still didn't quite believe they were out there buying rings, but the gesture somehow made him happy. Of course he knew Kaoru loved him, it was clear between them how they felt. But still this held some kind of meaning.
"You want a stone?" the older guitarist turned his head to look at his lover, a smirk on his lips. "A girly-girl stone?"
"No." The younger man shook his head, slapping the other's shoulder mock-angrily. "But maybe you do?"
"I don't think so." Kaoru was still gazing at the other man, the smirk not gone. "I don't want to be the girl..."
"What makes you think I'd be the wife?" Die even managed to pout a bit.
"You make the better coffee," the other presented his perfect solution.
"But you're a better cook. And you clean more."
"I'm a modern man. They do clean too."
"I still never promised to be your wife. So don't even suggest me girly rings!"
Kaoru's smirk became a soft smile and he reached for his lover's hand to pull him next to him. "Then look at the display and tell me what you like," he suggested.
The smile was like stuck on the redhead's face, simply because he enjoyed the situation to no end. Carefully he looked through the rings, before pointing out three possibilities. "What about that or one of those?"
"I like that one." Kaoru nodded as his lover had pointed at a simple golden ring which was laced with a ribbon of red and white gold. Simple but still fancy. "You're quite a cheap husband," he remarked chuckling as he spotted the price.
"I don't want to bring you into bankruptcy." Die had the answer ready immediately, as he turned to look at the other with sparkling eyes. "Besides, I like the ring."
"So we buy it?" The older guitarist sounded a bit disbelieving as he would've thought they had to see more jewellers that day. But he liked the ring as well, a lot indeed, and was wiling to wear it as a sign for their love.
"If you want it." The other man nodded, taking another glance at the ring. "We can try to see if we find a better one if you like. But that one looks good to me."
"No no, I won't decide this alone and a 'looks good for me' doesn't sound too enthusiastic either. You will have to wear this ring for the rest of your life," Kaoru explained chuckling, "so if you now tell me with deepest creed that you like this ring, we will buy it, but if not, we'll go on looking somewhere else."
"I like it, I really do!" Die nodded to confirm his words, his smile even widening as he heard the words 'for the rest of your life'. "I just didn't want you to take it only because I happen to like it."
"I like it too." The older man beamed happily. He beckoned the jeweller to tell him their sizes and very much to Die's surprise, he knew his ringsize without having to ask for it. "Would you like us to engrave something?" the man asked kindly, looking at the two men. Without thinking about it, Kaoru nodded. "Of course." He turned to look at his lover. "We do, don't we?"
"Sure." The redhead nodded, but had to almost instantly smile apologetically. "Although I dunno what..."
"Now why did I know that already?" Kaoru pouted a bit and then shook his head. "Just let me do that. You go over there and get this silver necklace you've been staring at for like ten minutes already. I'm generous today," he said, nodding into the direction with the silver accessories.
"You really mean that, don't you?" Die grinned disbelievingly. Usually Kaoru was the one who tried to hold him back from buying things like that, if he didn't really really want it. Quickly, before the older man was able to change his mind, he went to get the necklace though.
For a moment, the older guitarist followed him with his eyes, smiling to himself. Then, he turned back to the jeweller and explained what he wanted to be engraved in the rings. Inside, there would be their names along with the date when they had gotten together for the second time and the words 'for all eternity'. It made Kaoru laugh a bit, since nobody would imagine him to come up with something that dripping romantic, but this was really important to him and he had thought about it for some time already.
As the redhead came back with the necklace and set it on the counter he still took a reassuring glance at the older man. "You'll pay?" He was barely able to cover his bouncyness though, as he simply was full of energy and happiness.
Wordlessly, the older man dug out his credit card and waved it through the air. He gave it to the jeweller, peeking at his lover from the corner of his eyes. "He said we can get the rings on Thursday," he informed, simply to say something. He was full of high spirits and seeing the other man so happy and bouncy was enough to make him happy too.
"Cool. So it's not gonna take long anymore." Die grinned, winking at his lover merrily. "And then I have you bound to me for good."
"So that was your clever plan," Kaoru gasped in pretended surprise. He was interrupted by the jeweller who gave him back his card and a small bag with the necklace. The man bowed politely to bid farewell. On their way out, the older guitarist continued. "Does that mean I have to call off my side-lovers?"
"Of course. No more humping around anymore. Sorry." The redhead patted the other man's shoulder compassionately.
"Well," Kaoru sighed defeated, "I guess one has to settle down at a certain age anyways. And you're an okay catch, so I think I could live with that."
"An okay?" Die pretended to be hurt, even gasping slightly. "That definitely wasn't a nice thing to say!"
The older man had known that his lover would react like that and grinned. "Don't be angry." Quickly, he dug the small box in which the jeweller hat put the necklace out of the bag. "Let me make it up to you."
"You'd better make it good or I won't forgive you." The younger man threatened, although both of them knew it was a totally empty threat.
Smiling, Kaoru stepped a bit closer to him and fumbled for the box, opening it. "Look here. I got this only for you, sugar-pumpkin-pie. Will you forgive me?"
"Aww," Die made a girly sound, carefully taking the small box into his hands. "This is plain gorgeous."
With a macho like gesture, the older guitarist stepped behind his lover and fastened the necklace on the other's neck. "Gorgeous things for gorgeous girls," he said, using his deepest voice. This was plain fun for him and he didn't even care if somebody recognized them.
"This certainly earns you forgiveness." The redhead nodded instantly. "And it would earn you a kiss too if we weren't standing in the middle of a street."
"Just keep that in mind for the time when we're back at home." The older guitarist smiled widely. Suddenly, his eyes were sparkling impishly and he grabbed his lover's sleeve, dragging him along. "But you can treat me with an ice-cream," he piped.
"Of course." Die had to chuckle, and followed obediently as the other guitarist dragged him onwards. They found an ice cream parlour close by, and generously the younger man gestured towards the selection. "Just pick whatever you want."
"I want mango, raspberry, chocolate-cherry and," Kaoru winked smirking, "vanilla." Since he was hungry, he added after a second. "Oh, and don't forget whipped cream and chocolate granules."
"You greedy bastard." The younger man shook his head, but nevertheless told what kind of ice creams they wanted, paying them while his lover waited a few steps further away.
The older guitarist looked at his lover's back, deeply lost in thoughts. It was truly a miracle how he and the other man had managed so well with their relationship so far, considering that they both were hot-tempered and bull-headed at times. If one asked him now, he would say that had reached a state of content happiness, wouldn't change his life for anything.
Soon, Die got their ice creams and turned around, handing his lover his portion with a wide smile. With the older man he simply felt at ease all the time, happy wherever they were as long as they were there together. Since the day was still young, they decided to go for some window shopping and so they were walking down the precinct area, licking their ice-creams. They didn't have much time to do simple things like that usually and so they enjoyed it to the fullest. Kaoru was absent though, thinking that he wouldn't just want to get the rings and stick it on each other's fingers. Now that he had committed himself to this, he wanted the moment to be special and memorable for both of them.
Die's mind was blank from any thoughts right now, as he simply enjoyed the moment and the sunny day and stopped whenever he saw something interesting in the shop windows, pulling his lover's sleeve to make him stop as well. Inwardly he noted that they should do this more often, when they had the time.
In the early afternoon, they stopped by at a small restaurant to eat something before returning home. Only a few teenagers had interrupted them on their way, shyly asking for autographs, but in the restaurant, they had been undisturbed, sitting in a concealed corner to enjoy the food. Since Kaoru was whining that his feet hurt, they took a taxi home and spared them the long walk to the trainstation.
As soon as they arrived home they practically fell on the couch, both releasing a huge sigh. It had been a nice day, but definitely a long one, and they were somewhat exhausted. Plus there was no need to get up or anything as they were totally content there.
They were cuddling close, just resting there for some time, not even having enough energy to switch on the TV. "I guess I'm becoming old," Kaoru remarked smiling. It was only an empty phrase though for when he was on stage, he still acted like a young guitar-god.
"Nah." Die shook his head slowly before resting it back on the other man's shoulder. "We're just a middle aged couple. They tend to sometimes do nothing, you know."
"But they are not supposed to pass out on the couch after a day of shopping. We're rockstars. We're supposed to hit clubs afterwards and come home in the early morning hours, then screw each other’s brains out, sleep three hours and start all over." Kaoru mumbled with closed eyes.
"That was the good old past." The younger man laughed, not even stirring from his place though. "We're becoming weary, I know it."
"I never thought that would happen to me, you know. I still think I'm twenty and at the peak of my capabilities." Absent-mindedly, the older man wrapped his arms a bit tighter around his lover's shoulders.
"There are moments when I really believe you still are twenty." Die finally tilted his head a bit, smiling at the other man. "You didn't change that much."
"But if I were twenty, I would now at least try to convince you to do something fun and somehow I can't even move my head." As if to nullify his comment, Kaoru turned his head a bit to sneak a peek at his lover.
"But know what? It's maybe not a bad thing to get older." The other man smirked. "We kinda realized there's no need to rush things and we'll have all our lives still to do what we want."
"Gods, sometimes you sound ancient." The older guitarist growled. "Just like my mom."
"I have the wisdom of the ancient!" Came the instant reply. "But I'm still young."
"You're old and weary."
"Am not."
"Prove it!"
"How?"
"You know how."
"I don't."
"Use your imagination."
"I don't have any."
"I told you you're old."
"I am not! I'm just momentarily tired."
"Yeah right." Mock-compassionately, Kaoru patted his lover's head, even chuckling a bit. "And after that, you change and go to bed," he remarked matter-of-factly.
"Well, I was just pondering if there's any chances you'd carry me to bed so I wouldn't need to even do that." Die admitted with a bright grin.
"And who carries me?" The older man asked, arching an eyebrow. Suddenly, he burst out laughing. "You can't be serious, it's not even eight pm and we certainly can't go to bed at this time already." After a moment, he looked at him reassuring. "Could we?"
"We could if we wanted to." The younger man shrugged. "What if we play a really old couple, make ourselves tea or hot chocolate and spend the rest of the evening in bed doing nothing?"
"So you would make the tea?" Kaoru asked, a spark of hope in his eyes. But when he received a deep frown, he sighed. "Okay, okay. We both make the tea, undress and friggin' go to bed. I'm only glad that Mika's out or she would never ever stop mocking us."
"Don't say anything yet or she'll appear through the door in a moment and find us drinking tea in bed and being lazy." Die laughed, and a bit reluctantly heaved himself up from the couch and onto his feet.
The older guitarist waited until he was standing and then wriggled his fingers, signalling he should help him. With a theatrical growl, Kaoru got on his feet as well and headed for the kitchen. "Let's just never tell anybody about this. We never drink tea. We drink coffee, booze, beer, whatever, but not tea."
"And we definitely don't go to bed at eight, and we're never exhausted after a day of shopping." The younger man followed him chuckling.
"Of course not. We can cope with two days without sleep and still play a gig and have a party afterwards." While speaking, Kaoru took the electric kettle and switched it on.
"I bet we still could." Die slapped the other man's butt in passing by, before digging out something to eat from the fridge.
"But afterwards we'd sleep for a week." Kaoru had jumped a bit at the contact and now laughed softly. Suddenly, he turned around to face the other man with a grin. "Let's do that once again. I mean go clubbing right after playing a gig and then play the next one. I bet the others would be up for it too. Except for Kyo though."
"Maybe he would come along too, if we're good in trying to talk him into it." The younger man grinned, looking up at his lover for a moment before returning to his work. He was going to make them some sandwiches, since he wanted to have something to eat today still.
It made Kaoru smile softly and he wrapped his arms around the other man from behind. "You're still hungry? Not that you become fat." Sighing, he pinched his own belly. "Although I shouldn't talk. I really gained some..."
"You just look even better now." Die turned his head enough to sneak a peek at the other man. "Got a decent butt and thighs. Although you always did..."
"You don't think I look a bit chubby?" The older guitarist pulled up his shirt and showed his belly. One couldn't call him exactly chubby, but he had definitely gained some weight throughout the years.
"I think you look totally gorgeous." The younger man nodded firmly, smiling honestly. "Don't worry about gaining a bit, really."
"But you still are as thin as usual. Although," like testing, Kaoru shoved his hands under his lover's shirt, pinching his flesh. "You maybe gained a tiny little bit."
"I'm just skinny, can't help it." Die squirmed as his lover pinched him, trying to get away from the touch. "It's not like I wouldn't eat."
"You just have remarkable genes. That must be it. If I ate as much as you plus all the beer, you could roll me around." The older guitarist stated, pouring hot water into the mugs to fix the tea.
"Do I hear a tiny bit of jealousy in your voice?" The redhead laughed, piling the sandwiches up on a plate to take it with him.
"Nono, I enjoy watching my weight so that I'm looking good for my lover," Kaoru said sarcastically, threw the tea bags into the sink and grabbed the mugs. "Ready for a thrilling night in bed?" His own choice of words caused him to laugh, shaking his head. "Gods, and I don't even mean sex... We're definitely old."
"Well, never say never. If we rest a bit who knows what we'll come up with still!" Die took the food, following the other man towards the bedroom right behind.
"Well, probably something like sleeping," the older guitarist remarked. Indeed they only ate the sandwiches, drank the tea and kept on talking for a while. Kaoru still didn't ask what they should do once they got the rings, but he thought that the occasion would call at least for a romantic dinner or something equal. And like predicted, they fell asleep only at half past ten, cuddling chastely like an old couple. Neither of them minded though. When Mika came home a bit later she was surprised, becauce the whole apartment was completely silent and dark, everyone obviously fast asleep already. She didn't ask anything though, only sneaked into her own room silently not to disturb anyone.
The next couple of weeks were stressful for the guitarists. They were at the studio, trying to get a new album together. Luckily, they had gathered the basic ideas during their last tour already, so that they now only had to work on them until they were content with the result. Mika had joined the theatre course at school and was totally enthusiastic about it. Kaoru already feared that his daughter could want to become an actress which, in his eyes, would be even worse than a musician. And indeed, Mika was taking this class quite serious. Die and he tried to attend every single of her plays, but didn't have the time to watch many in the end. Of course, Nozomi and her new husband were attending the plays as well, but it was always special when the guitarists had the time to attend one.
Lately, the theatre course had been practicing really hard for one play they would perform several times for bigger audiences. It was something special for the teens who took part in it, and Mika was especially enthusiastic as she had gotten a rather big part in the play. Not the main role yet, but one of the most important. Kaoru had even managed to arrange all their schedules beforehand so that they would be able to go to the first performance, knowing it was important for her and they, of course, wanted to be there.
On the day when the play should take place, Kaoru drove Mika to the small theatre. Die had to take care of some band-business for him, but had promised to be there as soon as possible; certainly before the show began. Nervously, Mika ran up and down the corridor, passing by her father who was inwardly fuming. The show was about to start in a few minutes and still there was no sign of the redhead. One could accuse Die of many things, of being oblivious and tardy, but he would never forget something as important as that.
Again, Kaoru tried to call him, but only heard the female voice which informed that his phone was switched off and he could leave a message after the beep. The play was already about to begin, the actors taking their places and getting ready, and there still was no sign of Die anywhere. Kaoru had just taken his seat, shifting nervously as he just couldn't figure out why Die wasn't there yet. Suddenly his mobile started ringing though, showing a call from an unknown number.
Quickly, the guitarist apologized to the people around him, got up and made his way to the exit, pressing the button to receive the call. "Die?" he asked instantly, his heart beating quickly since he couldn't deny that he was worried.
"Yeah, it's me." The familiar voice answered from the other end of the line instantly. "Look, I'm sorry, I know the play's already starting. But they didn't let me call before…"
"What happened? Are you okay?" The tone of Die's voice didn't give away how he felt and it even stirred the worries inside Kaoru.
"I'm fine, I'm fine. Honestly. Only my neck hurts a bit and they want to keep me here for the night." The redhead explained calmly, not wanting the other man to think it was something serious when in reality, it wasn't. "Just wanted to let you know I won't make it to the play. You go and see it, and I'll call you in the evening again, alright?"
"No no, it's not alright. Where are you and what happened. What's with your neck?" Kaoru had reached the corridor and leaned against the wall, peeking at the stage through a small gap in the door.
"I'm in the hospital, but I really am fine. Those stubborn bastards only want to be sure, although I say it's in vain." Die still didn't want to make his lover worry, and didn't want to be the reason for him to miss the play since he knew how important it was. "But I wrecked the car... it's of no use anymore."
"Forget about the fucking car." The older guitarist sighed. Still, he asked his lover to which hospital they had brought him and then promised to visit him right after the play. Again apologizing to the other people in the audience, he made his way back to his seat, trying to concentrate on the show. But somehow he couldn't focus, was too agitated and worried. What if Die had only played it down, what if he was seriously injured? His gaze roamed down to the small ring on his left hand and he touched the metal dreamily. After all, they hadn't made a big fuzz out of giving them to each other, but Die had knelt down in front of him and asked him if he wanted to spend the rest of his life with him.
The remembrance gave Kaoru the last push and he stood up again. He was sure Mika would understand when he explained it to her, but he simply had to go to see if Die was alright, see it with his own eyes. He headed straight to the hospital Die had named, not wasting any more time even thinking about it. It was close by and so it didn't even take long, and after asking a few people where he could find the redhead, he was directed to a small room. Die was sitting on the bed, leaning against the bed head, but as soon as he spotted the older man his eyes widened and he straightened on his place. "Kaoru? What're you doing here? Did they cancel the play or something?"
"No." The older man shook his head, carefully sitting down at the bed's edge. "I couldn't focus on it anymore." He smiled, suddenly feeling a bit stupid since his lover truly looked healthy and okay. Still, he didn't regret coming.
"Come on. I told you I'm fine." Die couldn't deny it was nice to see the older man, but he still wouldn't have wanted him to miss the play. "You should go and at least catch the end of the play. It's important to Mika. And she's so important to you, you should be there to share it with her."
"There'll be other plays to watch, but I only have one Daisuke. So shut up. Of course I had to come and of course I was friggin' worried to hear that you had an accident." Kaoru took the other man's hand in his and kissed its back.
Somehow the words made a lump rise in the younger man's throat, and he used the grip he had on his lover's hand to pull him closer into a hug. "Thank you." He really meant it. Although he wasn't really hurt physically, other than a few bruises which would heal on their own, it had been a shock to just lose control over the car like that and he appreciated the concern, as well as the company.
"When the caller didn't send his number, I already thought it was the police. Maybe I overreacted a bit, but I was really worried." A bit apologetically, Kaoru added. "Before I was only angry though that you were late, but I knew this was important to you too so it caused a dozen of horror-scenarios to flash through my mind."
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to worry anyone, and I certainly didn't want to miss the play." Die simply leaned against the other man for a while, closing his eyes. "And I didn't want you to miss it either, but I knew I was supposed to call you anyways."
"Shhh," Kaoru tried to calm him down. "Of course you had to call me." He detached from his lover a bit to look him in the eyes. "So you have to stay here tonight? Can't we go home and I promise to take care that you won't move a single bit?"
"I don't know. You have to ask the guards." The redhead smiled softly. "They just said they want to make sure nothing's wrong although it seems everything's normal."
"Would you wanna go home? I mean, do you feel well enough?" The older guitarist still looked somewhat worried, inquiring his lover with his gaze.
"I've said like a million times that I'm fine. But I got a huge bruise on my waist, wanna see?" Die smirked, definitely not wanting to make the other man worry in vain. He was aching, but it was nothing that wouldn't pass after a good night's sleep and rest.
"Of course," Kaoru nodded excited and already peeled the blanket off his lover to make him show his injury. It was a huge blue-black-purple and green bruise. "Wow, that looks nasty." He winked at the redhead. "But cool" And quickly, he dug out his mobile phone to take a picture of it, preserving the moment for posterity.
"But I was a good boy and had the seatbelt on." The redhead chuckled, pulling the shirt back down. "I have bruises everywhere, but this is the coolest."
"I'm glad that nothing worse happened," Kaoru said seriously, but then suddenly looked shocked. "Gods, you had MY car. Why again did you take MY car?"
"Because it is -" Die hesitated a bit before correcting. "was cooler than mine." He bit his lower lip, looking at the other from huge innocent eyes. "I'm sorry."
"Forgiven." The older man waved aside. "But it was newer and a convertible, moreover a classic." He looked a bit sad, but only for a second. "Well, but it protected you, so it did its job. Can you tell me what exactly happened?"
"There was another car passing by and the driver turned it too fast and it would've hit the car if I hadn't dodged." The younger guitarist tried to explain, although the situation had been so fast that it was slightly incoherent for him too. "But it was kinda slippery on the road, and I lost control over the car. It was a stupid mistake, I should've been able to avoid it."
"They got the other driver?" Kaoru asked. "Or did he get away?" He was still holding his lover's hand, absent-mindedly brushing his thumb over the other man's weddingring.
"I dunno, to be honest." Die had turned his gaze to their linked hands, watching silently.
"Well, it doesn't matter now. Most important is that you're in one piece. I will search for a doc and ask if it is okay when I take you home. Maybe I can bail you out." He gave his lover a stunning smile and a short kiss before he let go of him, his hand sliding along the other's until he lost contact.
"I'll wait here." The younger man smiled, following his lover with his gaze for as long as he could until he disappeared through the door. He was honestly glad that Kaoru had come there for him, appreciating the care and concern. He almost felt like crying, now that all the stress was flowing out of him, making his hands shake slightly.
It didn't even take long before the older guitarist returned, accompanied by a doctor. "Are you sure you want to leave Mr. Andou?" The man asked and when the redhead nodded, the doctor signed a form. "Okay. We checked your x-rays and there's nothing wrong with your neck. If you feel dizzy or your limbs get numb, come back instantly. For the next days, you should rest a bit and I think the nurse gave you something for the pain. That should do."
"Thank you." Die smiled at him, giving his signature to show he had been informed about the necessary things and with that they were given permission to get going. The redhead was truly relieved that he wouldn't have to spend the night in the hospital, definitely preferring the possibility to go home and sleep in his own bed.
Kaoru was overly caring though, made sure they didn't walk too quick and when Die had sat down in the car, he asked about a hundred times if the seatbelt hurt him. Once in their apartment, he ordered the redhead to bed, telling him he would follow with something to eat and to drink in a minute.
Die felt somewhat like a child that was being ordered around, but he obeyed without arguing back, knowing the other did it only because he cared. And it was kind of nice to have someone taking care of him like that, seeing that he was feeling comfortable. Before slipping into bed, he changed into a huge t-shirt and pair of baggy leisure suit pants.
Like promised, it took only a couple of minutes before Kaoru joined him, a bowl filled with chips and a bottle of coke in his hands. "I thought you might want something unhealthy. Or shall I make you a sandwich or cook something?"
"I'm not that hungry." The redhead smiled, shifting a bit to the side to signal he would like to have the other man sit beside him. "Thanks though. And you can cook for me tomorrow if you're that eager."
They were sitting next to each other, eating chips and talking about god-knows-what. It was clearly visible how relieved the older guitarist was that his lover was well. Somehow this made clear that nothing was for granted, that their luck could end within the blink of an eye. He had never really thought about death or the possibility that one of them could become sick before, but after this incident, he did it more often. He tried to consciously enjoy the small moments in life, like waking up beside his lover, exchanging a kiss or reading a note Die had left when he had to get up before him. It was things like that which made life worth living.
Somehow the incident made Die realize how much the older guitarist cared for him in reality. Of course he had known that they both loved each other, there was no doubt of that. But he had been still surprised that Kaoru had chosen to come to him that day instead of watching the play that had been so important to his daughter. He had always somehow assumed that Mika came first regardless of the situation, and it hadn't even bothered him really. But it was nice to know he was important, and in the end it simply strengthened their relationship as well.
Like assumed, Mika wasn't angry that neither of them had been there to see her play. It had been a huge success though and her teacher had announced that they would practice for another one soon. Of course she teased the redhead with this at times, but only in a loving way. Whenever Kaoru witnessed his two most beloved persons talk to each other, it caused a warm feeling to flood him. It wasn't a matter of course that his daughter got along so well with his lover and he knew it.
Die and Mika had grown really close throughout the years, and there were times when the redhead really thought of her as their daughter instead of only Kaoru's. She often came to him with her troubles, even asking for advice, and although they had their arguments and fights as well they never staid mad for long. All in all they formed a well functioning, happy small family, and even Nozomi got along with both the guitarists nowadays, they had even had huge family dinners together with her new family.
Author:
seinen_no and fonulynRating: NC17 overall
Pairing: Die and Kaoru
Disclaimer: We own no one, only our dirty imaginations.
Summary: When Kaoru and his wife get a divorce, he is forced to leave his little daughter to live with her mother when he’s moving out. He finds support in his best friend, but is friendship everything life has in store for them? Or is their past together going to resurface now that Kaoru’s life has been turned upside down?
Comments:
seinen_no: Hey babes! Back already x) Hmm, I still lack proper things to say, but I love the first scene of this chap a hell lot. It's been so nice to re-read it (yeah, this time I took the effort to even do that. I'm still threatened by this damn cold, but as it seems, I'm winning^^). So, as usual, have fun reading!fonulyn: I think this chapter is kinda important when it comes to their relationship and how it’s developed and how they feel for each other. Although I have to admit, it didn’t turn out exactly like I wanted so I don’t know if the things are too subtly mentioned to get them really XD I hope the point comes across though. And enjoy the chapter dears! And feel free to add our journal if you like the stories!
Plus, the archive .
Previously happened: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6
Chapter 7
"Do you want a golden one? Somehow I think that's old fashioned, but then again, it's a classic." Kaoru was bowing down so lowly that he almost pressed his nose against the glass of the jeweller’s display. One could plainly see that he was enthusiastic about this. After Die had mentioned it, he had taken it to heart and although he knew that the redhead had mainly only wanted to tease him, Kaoru had simply dragged his lover to the city one Sunday morning, merrily announcing that they would go ringshopping. "Maybe we should have some custom-made, or then just very simple ones. The kind that usually nobody notices and which still have a certain class."
"I think simple ones would be the best." Die looked through the examples of rings carefully, trying to spot if there was something that would suit them well. "But it doesn't mean there couldn't be a catch in them, you know? Simple, but not quite ordinary." He still didn't quite believe they were out there buying rings, but the gesture somehow made him happy. Of course he knew Kaoru loved him, it was clear between them how they felt. But still this held some kind of meaning.
"You want a stone?" the older guitarist turned his head to look at his lover, a smirk on his lips. "A girly-girl stone?"
"No." The younger man shook his head, slapping the other's shoulder mock-angrily. "But maybe you do?"
"I don't think so." Kaoru was still gazing at the other man, the smirk not gone. "I don't want to be the girl..."
"What makes you think I'd be the wife?" Die even managed to pout a bit.
"You make the better coffee," the other presented his perfect solution.
"But you're a better cook. And you clean more."
"I'm a modern man. They do clean too."
"I still never promised to be your wife. So don't even suggest me girly rings!"
Kaoru's smirk became a soft smile and he reached for his lover's hand to pull him next to him. "Then look at the display and tell me what you like," he suggested.
The smile was like stuck on the redhead's face, simply because he enjoyed the situation to no end. Carefully he looked through the rings, before pointing out three possibilities. "What about that or one of those?"
"I like that one." Kaoru nodded as his lover had pointed at a simple golden ring which was laced with a ribbon of red and white gold. Simple but still fancy. "You're quite a cheap husband," he remarked chuckling as he spotted the price.
"I don't want to bring you into bankruptcy." Die had the answer ready immediately, as he turned to look at the other with sparkling eyes. "Besides, I like the ring."
"So we buy it?" The older guitarist sounded a bit disbelieving as he would've thought they had to see more jewellers that day. But he liked the ring as well, a lot indeed, and was wiling to wear it as a sign for their love.
"If you want it." The other man nodded, taking another glance at the ring. "We can try to see if we find a better one if you like. But that one looks good to me."
"No no, I won't decide this alone and a 'looks good for me' doesn't sound too enthusiastic either. You will have to wear this ring for the rest of your life," Kaoru explained chuckling, "so if you now tell me with deepest creed that you like this ring, we will buy it, but if not, we'll go on looking somewhere else."
"I like it, I really do!" Die nodded to confirm his words, his smile even widening as he heard the words 'for the rest of your life'. "I just didn't want you to take it only because I happen to like it."
"I like it too." The older man beamed happily. He beckoned the jeweller to tell him their sizes and very much to Die's surprise, he knew his ringsize without having to ask for it. "Would you like us to engrave something?" the man asked kindly, looking at the two men. Without thinking about it, Kaoru nodded. "Of course." He turned to look at his lover. "We do, don't we?"
"Sure." The redhead nodded, but had to almost instantly smile apologetically. "Although I dunno what..."
"Now why did I know that already?" Kaoru pouted a bit and then shook his head. "Just let me do that. You go over there and get this silver necklace you've been staring at for like ten minutes already. I'm generous today," he said, nodding into the direction with the silver accessories.
"You really mean that, don't you?" Die grinned disbelievingly. Usually Kaoru was the one who tried to hold him back from buying things like that, if he didn't really really want it. Quickly, before the older man was able to change his mind, he went to get the necklace though.
For a moment, the older guitarist followed him with his eyes, smiling to himself. Then, he turned back to the jeweller and explained what he wanted to be engraved in the rings. Inside, there would be their names along with the date when they had gotten together for the second time and the words 'for all eternity'. It made Kaoru laugh a bit, since nobody would imagine him to come up with something that dripping romantic, but this was really important to him and he had thought about it for some time already.
As the redhead came back with the necklace and set it on the counter he still took a reassuring glance at the older man. "You'll pay?" He was barely able to cover his bouncyness though, as he simply was full of energy and happiness.
Wordlessly, the older man dug out his credit card and waved it through the air. He gave it to the jeweller, peeking at his lover from the corner of his eyes. "He said we can get the rings on Thursday," he informed, simply to say something. He was full of high spirits and seeing the other man so happy and bouncy was enough to make him happy too.
"Cool. So it's not gonna take long anymore." Die grinned, winking at his lover merrily. "And then I have you bound to me for good."
"So that was your clever plan," Kaoru gasped in pretended surprise. He was interrupted by the jeweller who gave him back his card and a small bag with the necklace. The man bowed politely to bid farewell. On their way out, the older guitarist continued. "Does that mean I have to call off my side-lovers?"
"Of course. No more humping around anymore. Sorry." The redhead patted the other man's shoulder compassionately.
"Well," Kaoru sighed defeated, "I guess one has to settle down at a certain age anyways. And you're an okay catch, so I think I could live with that."
"An okay?" Die pretended to be hurt, even gasping slightly. "That definitely wasn't a nice thing to say!"
The older man had known that his lover would react like that and grinned. "Don't be angry." Quickly, he dug the small box in which the jeweller hat put the necklace out of the bag. "Let me make it up to you."
"You'd better make it good or I won't forgive you." The younger man threatened, although both of them knew it was a totally empty threat.
Smiling, Kaoru stepped a bit closer to him and fumbled for the box, opening it. "Look here. I got this only for you, sugar-pumpkin-pie. Will you forgive me?"
"Aww," Die made a girly sound, carefully taking the small box into his hands. "This is plain gorgeous."
With a macho like gesture, the older guitarist stepped behind his lover and fastened the necklace on the other's neck. "Gorgeous things for gorgeous girls," he said, using his deepest voice. This was plain fun for him and he didn't even care if somebody recognized them.
"This certainly earns you forgiveness." The redhead nodded instantly. "And it would earn you a kiss too if we weren't standing in the middle of a street."
"Just keep that in mind for the time when we're back at home." The older guitarist smiled widely. Suddenly, his eyes were sparkling impishly and he grabbed his lover's sleeve, dragging him along. "But you can treat me with an ice-cream," he piped.
"Of course." Die had to chuckle, and followed obediently as the other guitarist dragged him onwards. They found an ice cream parlour close by, and generously the younger man gestured towards the selection. "Just pick whatever you want."
"I want mango, raspberry, chocolate-cherry and," Kaoru winked smirking, "vanilla." Since he was hungry, he added after a second. "Oh, and don't forget whipped cream and chocolate granules."
"You greedy bastard." The younger man shook his head, but nevertheless told what kind of ice creams they wanted, paying them while his lover waited a few steps further away.
The older guitarist looked at his lover's back, deeply lost in thoughts. It was truly a miracle how he and the other man had managed so well with their relationship so far, considering that they both were hot-tempered and bull-headed at times. If one asked him now, he would say that had reached a state of content happiness, wouldn't change his life for anything.
Soon, Die got their ice creams and turned around, handing his lover his portion with a wide smile. With the older man he simply felt at ease all the time, happy wherever they were as long as they were there together. Since the day was still young, they decided to go for some window shopping and so they were walking down the precinct area, licking their ice-creams. They didn't have much time to do simple things like that usually and so they enjoyed it to the fullest. Kaoru was absent though, thinking that he wouldn't just want to get the rings and stick it on each other's fingers. Now that he had committed himself to this, he wanted the moment to be special and memorable for both of them.
Die's mind was blank from any thoughts right now, as he simply enjoyed the moment and the sunny day and stopped whenever he saw something interesting in the shop windows, pulling his lover's sleeve to make him stop as well. Inwardly he noted that they should do this more often, when they had the time.
In the early afternoon, they stopped by at a small restaurant to eat something before returning home. Only a few teenagers had interrupted them on their way, shyly asking for autographs, but in the restaurant, they had been undisturbed, sitting in a concealed corner to enjoy the food. Since Kaoru was whining that his feet hurt, they took a taxi home and spared them the long walk to the trainstation.
As soon as they arrived home they practically fell on the couch, both releasing a huge sigh. It had been a nice day, but definitely a long one, and they were somewhat exhausted. Plus there was no need to get up or anything as they were totally content there.
They were cuddling close, just resting there for some time, not even having enough energy to switch on the TV. "I guess I'm becoming old," Kaoru remarked smiling. It was only an empty phrase though for when he was on stage, he still acted like a young guitar-god.
"Nah." Die shook his head slowly before resting it back on the other man's shoulder. "We're just a middle aged couple. They tend to sometimes do nothing, you know."
"But they are not supposed to pass out on the couch after a day of shopping. We're rockstars. We're supposed to hit clubs afterwards and come home in the early morning hours, then screw each other’s brains out, sleep three hours and start all over." Kaoru mumbled with closed eyes.
"That was the good old past." The younger man laughed, not even stirring from his place though. "We're becoming weary, I know it."
"I never thought that would happen to me, you know. I still think I'm twenty and at the peak of my capabilities." Absent-mindedly, the older man wrapped his arms a bit tighter around his lover's shoulders.
"There are moments when I really believe you still are twenty." Die finally tilted his head a bit, smiling at the other man. "You didn't change that much."
"But if I were twenty, I would now at least try to convince you to do something fun and somehow I can't even move my head." As if to nullify his comment, Kaoru turned his head a bit to sneak a peek at his lover.
"But know what? It's maybe not a bad thing to get older." The other man smirked. "We kinda realized there's no need to rush things and we'll have all our lives still to do what we want."
"Gods, sometimes you sound ancient." The older guitarist growled. "Just like my mom."
"I have the wisdom of the ancient!" Came the instant reply. "But I'm still young."
"You're old and weary."
"Am not."
"Prove it!"
"How?"
"You know how."
"I don't."
"Use your imagination."
"I don't have any."
"I told you you're old."
"I am not! I'm just momentarily tired."
"Yeah right." Mock-compassionately, Kaoru patted his lover's head, even chuckling a bit. "And after that, you change and go to bed," he remarked matter-of-factly.
"Well, I was just pondering if there's any chances you'd carry me to bed so I wouldn't need to even do that." Die admitted with a bright grin.
"And who carries me?" The older man asked, arching an eyebrow. Suddenly, he burst out laughing. "You can't be serious, it's not even eight pm and we certainly can't go to bed at this time already." After a moment, he looked at him reassuring. "Could we?"
"We could if we wanted to." The younger man shrugged. "What if we play a really old couple, make ourselves tea or hot chocolate and spend the rest of the evening in bed doing nothing?"
"So you would make the tea?" Kaoru asked, a spark of hope in his eyes. But when he received a deep frown, he sighed. "Okay, okay. We both make the tea, undress and friggin' go to bed. I'm only glad that Mika's out or she would never ever stop mocking us."
"Don't say anything yet or she'll appear through the door in a moment and find us drinking tea in bed and being lazy." Die laughed, and a bit reluctantly heaved himself up from the couch and onto his feet.
The older guitarist waited until he was standing and then wriggled his fingers, signalling he should help him. With a theatrical growl, Kaoru got on his feet as well and headed for the kitchen. "Let's just never tell anybody about this. We never drink tea. We drink coffee, booze, beer, whatever, but not tea."
"And we definitely don't go to bed at eight, and we're never exhausted after a day of shopping." The younger man followed him chuckling.
"Of course not. We can cope with two days without sleep and still play a gig and have a party afterwards." While speaking, Kaoru took the electric kettle and switched it on.
"I bet we still could." Die slapped the other man's butt in passing by, before digging out something to eat from the fridge.
"But afterwards we'd sleep for a week." Kaoru had jumped a bit at the contact and now laughed softly. Suddenly, he turned around to face the other man with a grin. "Let's do that once again. I mean go clubbing right after playing a gig and then play the next one. I bet the others would be up for it too. Except for Kyo though."
"Maybe he would come along too, if we're good in trying to talk him into it." The younger man grinned, looking up at his lover for a moment before returning to his work. He was going to make them some sandwiches, since he wanted to have something to eat today still.
It made Kaoru smile softly and he wrapped his arms around the other man from behind. "You're still hungry? Not that you become fat." Sighing, he pinched his own belly. "Although I shouldn't talk. I really gained some..."
"You just look even better now." Die turned his head enough to sneak a peek at the other man. "Got a decent butt and thighs. Although you always did..."
"You don't think I look a bit chubby?" The older guitarist pulled up his shirt and showed his belly. One couldn't call him exactly chubby, but he had definitely gained some weight throughout the years.
"I think you look totally gorgeous." The younger man nodded firmly, smiling honestly. "Don't worry about gaining a bit, really."
"But you still are as thin as usual. Although," like testing, Kaoru shoved his hands under his lover's shirt, pinching his flesh. "You maybe gained a tiny little bit."
"I'm just skinny, can't help it." Die squirmed as his lover pinched him, trying to get away from the touch. "It's not like I wouldn't eat."
"You just have remarkable genes. That must be it. If I ate as much as you plus all the beer, you could roll me around." The older guitarist stated, pouring hot water into the mugs to fix the tea.
"Do I hear a tiny bit of jealousy in your voice?" The redhead laughed, piling the sandwiches up on a plate to take it with him.
"Nono, I enjoy watching my weight so that I'm looking good for my lover," Kaoru said sarcastically, threw the tea bags into the sink and grabbed the mugs. "Ready for a thrilling night in bed?" His own choice of words caused him to laugh, shaking his head. "Gods, and I don't even mean sex... We're definitely old."
"Well, never say never. If we rest a bit who knows what we'll come up with still!" Die took the food, following the other man towards the bedroom right behind.
"Well, probably something like sleeping," the older guitarist remarked. Indeed they only ate the sandwiches, drank the tea and kept on talking for a while. Kaoru still didn't ask what they should do once they got the rings, but he thought that the occasion would call at least for a romantic dinner or something equal. And like predicted, they fell asleep only at half past ten, cuddling chastely like an old couple. Neither of them minded though. When Mika came home a bit later she was surprised, becauce the whole apartment was completely silent and dark, everyone obviously fast asleep already. She didn't ask anything though, only sneaked into her own room silently not to disturb anyone.
The next couple of weeks were stressful for the guitarists. They were at the studio, trying to get a new album together. Luckily, they had gathered the basic ideas during their last tour already, so that they now only had to work on them until they were content with the result. Mika had joined the theatre course at school and was totally enthusiastic about it. Kaoru already feared that his daughter could want to become an actress which, in his eyes, would be even worse than a musician. And indeed, Mika was taking this class quite serious. Die and he tried to attend every single of her plays, but didn't have the time to watch many in the end. Of course, Nozomi and her new husband were attending the plays as well, but it was always special when the guitarists had the time to attend one.
Lately, the theatre course had been practicing really hard for one play they would perform several times for bigger audiences. It was something special for the teens who took part in it, and Mika was especially enthusiastic as she had gotten a rather big part in the play. Not the main role yet, but one of the most important. Kaoru had even managed to arrange all their schedules beforehand so that they would be able to go to the first performance, knowing it was important for her and they, of course, wanted to be there.
On the day when the play should take place, Kaoru drove Mika to the small theatre. Die had to take care of some band-business for him, but had promised to be there as soon as possible; certainly before the show began. Nervously, Mika ran up and down the corridor, passing by her father who was inwardly fuming. The show was about to start in a few minutes and still there was no sign of the redhead. One could accuse Die of many things, of being oblivious and tardy, but he would never forget something as important as that.
Again, Kaoru tried to call him, but only heard the female voice which informed that his phone was switched off and he could leave a message after the beep. The play was already about to begin, the actors taking their places and getting ready, and there still was no sign of Die anywhere. Kaoru had just taken his seat, shifting nervously as he just couldn't figure out why Die wasn't there yet. Suddenly his mobile started ringing though, showing a call from an unknown number.
Quickly, the guitarist apologized to the people around him, got up and made his way to the exit, pressing the button to receive the call. "Die?" he asked instantly, his heart beating quickly since he couldn't deny that he was worried.
"Yeah, it's me." The familiar voice answered from the other end of the line instantly. "Look, I'm sorry, I know the play's already starting. But they didn't let me call before…"
"What happened? Are you okay?" The tone of Die's voice didn't give away how he felt and it even stirred the worries inside Kaoru.
"I'm fine, I'm fine. Honestly. Only my neck hurts a bit and they want to keep me here for the night." The redhead explained calmly, not wanting the other man to think it was something serious when in reality, it wasn't. "Just wanted to let you know I won't make it to the play. You go and see it, and I'll call you in the evening again, alright?"
"No no, it's not alright. Where are you and what happened. What's with your neck?" Kaoru had reached the corridor and leaned against the wall, peeking at the stage through a small gap in the door.
"I'm in the hospital, but I really am fine. Those stubborn bastards only want to be sure, although I say it's in vain." Die still didn't want to make his lover worry, and didn't want to be the reason for him to miss the play since he knew how important it was. "But I wrecked the car... it's of no use anymore."
"Forget about the fucking car." The older guitarist sighed. Still, he asked his lover to which hospital they had brought him and then promised to visit him right after the play. Again apologizing to the other people in the audience, he made his way back to his seat, trying to concentrate on the show. But somehow he couldn't focus, was too agitated and worried. What if Die had only played it down, what if he was seriously injured? His gaze roamed down to the small ring on his left hand and he touched the metal dreamily. After all, they hadn't made a big fuzz out of giving them to each other, but Die had knelt down in front of him and asked him if he wanted to spend the rest of his life with him.
The remembrance gave Kaoru the last push and he stood up again. He was sure Mika would understand when he explained it to her, but he simply had to go to see if Die was alright, see it with his own eyes. He headed straight to the hospital Die had named, not wasting any more time even thinking about it. It was close by and so it didn't even take long, and after asking a few people where he could find the redhead, he was directed to a small room. Die was sitting on the bed, leaning against the bed head, but as soon as he spotted the older man his eyes widened and he straightened on his place. "Kaoru? What're you doing here? Did they cancel the play or something?"
"No." The older man shook his head, carefully sitting down at the bed's edge. "I couldn't focus on it anymore." He smiled, suddenly feeling a bit stupid since his lover truly looked healthy and okay. Still, he didn't regret coming.
"Come on. I told you I'm fine." Die couldn't deny it was nice to see the older man, but he still wouldn't have wanted him to miss the play. "You should go and at least catch the end of the play. It's important to Mika. And she's so important to you, you should be there to share it with her."
"There'll be other plays to watch, but I only have one Daisuke. So shut up. Of course I had to come and of course I was friggin' worried to hear that you had an accident." Kaoru took the other man's hand in his and kissed its back.
Somehow the words made a lump rise in the younger man's throat, and he used the grip he had on his lover's hand to pull him closer into a hug. "Thank you." He really meant it. Although he wasn't really hurt physically, other than a few bruises which would heal on their own, it had been a shock to just lose control over the car like that and he appreciated the concern, as well as the company.
"When the caller didn't send his number, I already thought it was the police. Maybe I overreacted a bit, but I was really worried." A bit apologetically, Kaoru added. "Before I was only angry though that you were late, but I knew this was important to you too so it caused a dozen of horror-scenarios to flash through my mind."
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to worry anyone, and I certainly didn't want to miss the play." Die simply leaned against the other man for a while, closing his eyes. "And I didn't want you to miss it either, but I knew I was supposed to call you anyways."
"Shhh," Kaoru tried to calm him down. "Of course you had to call me." He detached from his lover a bit to look him in the eyes. "So you have to stay here tonight? Can't we go home and I promise to take care that you won't move a single bit?"
"I don't know. You have to ask the guards." The redhead smiled softly. "They just said they want to make sure nothing's wrong although it seems everything's normal."
"Would you wanna go home? I mean, do you feel well enough?" The older guitarist still looked somewhat worried, inquiring his lover with his gaze.
"I've said like a million times that I'm fine. But I got a huge bruise on my waist, wanna see?" Die smirked, definitely not wanting to make the other man worry in vain. He was aching, but it was nothing that wouldn't pass after a good night's sleep and rest.
"Of course," Kaoru nodded excited and already peeled the blanket off his lover to make him show his injury. It was a huge blue-black-purple and green bruise. "Wow, that looks nasty." He winked at the redhead. "But cool" And quickly, he dug out his mobile phone to take a picture of it, preserving the moment for posterity.
"But I was a good boy and had the seatbelt on." The redhead chuckled, pulling the shirt back down. "I have bruises everywhere, but this is the coolest."
"I'm glad that nothing worse happened," Kaoru said seriously, but then suddenly looked shocked. "Gods, you had MY car. Why again did you take MY car?"
"Because it is -" Die hesitated a bit before correcting. "was cooler than mine." He bit his lower lip, looking at the other from huge innocent eyes. "I'm sorry."
"Forgiven." The older man waved aside. "But it was newer and a convertible, moreover a classic." He looked a bit sad, but only for a second. "Well, but it protected you, so it did its job. Can you tell me what exactly happened?"
"There was another car passing by and the driver turned it too fast and it would've hit the car if I hadn't dodged." The younger guitarist tried to explain, although the situation had been so fast that it was slightly incoherent for him too. "But it was kinda slippery on the road, and I lost control over the car. It was a stupid mistake, I should've been able to avoid it."
"They got the other driver?" Kaoru asked. "Or did he get away?" He was still holding his lover's hand, absent-mindedly brushing his thumb over the other man's weddingring.
"I dunno, to be honest." Die had turned his gaze to their linked hands, watching silently.
"Well, it doesn't matter now. Most important is that you're in one piece. I will search for a doc and ask if it is okay when I take you home. Maybe I can bail you out." He gave his lover a stunning smile and a short kiss before he let go of him, his hand sliding along the other's until he lost contact.
"I'll wait here." The younger man smiled, following his lover with his gaze for as long as he could until he disappeared through the door. He was honestly glad that Kaoru had come there for him, appreciating the care and concern. He almost felt like crying, now that all the stress was flowing out of him, making his hands shake slightly.
It didn't even take long before the older guitarist returned, accompanied by a doctor. "Are you sure you want to leave Mr. Andou?" The man asked and when the redhead nodded, the doctor signed a form. "Okay. We checked your x-rays and there's nothing wrong with your neck. If you feel dizzy or your limbs get numb, come back instantly. For the next days, you should rest a bit and I think the nurse gave you something for the pain. That should do."
"Thank you." Die smiled at him, giving his signature to show he had been informed about the necessary things and with that they were given permission to get going. The redhead was truly relieved that he wouldn't have to spend the night in the hospital, definitely preferring the possibility to go home and sleep in his own bed.
Kaoru was overly caring though, made sure they didn't walk too quick and when Die had sat down in the car, he asked about a hundred times if the seatbelt hurt him. Once in their apartment, he ordered the redhead to bed, telling him he would follow with something to eat and to drink in a minute.
Die felt somewhat like a child that was being ordered around, but he obeyed without arguing back, knowing the other did it only because he cared. And it was kind of nice to have someone taking care of him like that, seeing that he was feeling comfortable. Before slipping into bed, he changed into a huge t-shirt and pair of baggy leisure suit pants.
Like promised, it took only a couple of minutes before Kaoru joined him, a bowl filled with chips and a bottle of coke in his hands. "I thought you might want something unhealthy. Or shall I make you a sandwich or cook something?"
"I'm not that hungry." The redhead smiled, shifting a bit to the side to signal he would like to have the other man sit beside him. "Thanks though. And you can cook for me tomorrow if you're that eager."
They were sitting next to each other, eating chips and talking about god-knows-what. It was clearly visible how relieved the older guitarist was that his lover was well. Somehow this made clear that nothing was for granted, that their luck could end within the blink of an eye. He had never really thought about death or the possibility that one of them could become sick before, but after this incident, he did it more often. He tried to consciously enjoy the small moments in life, like waking up beside his lover, exchanging a kiss or reading a note Die had left when he had to get up before him. It was things like that which made life worth living.
Somehow the incident made Die realize how much the older guitarist cared for him in reality. Of course he had known that they both loved each other, there was no doubt of that. But he had been still surprised that Kaoru had chosen to come to him that day instead of watching the play that had been so important to his daughter. He had always somehow assumed that Mika came first regardless of the situation, and it hadn't even bothered him really. But it was nice to know he was important, and in the end it simply strengthened their relationship as well.
Like assumed, Mika wasn't angry that neither of them had been there to see her play. It had been a huge success though and her teacher had announced that they would practice for another one soon. Of course she teased the redhead with this at times, but only in a loving way. Whenever Kaoru witnessed his two most beloved persons talk to each other, it caused a warm feeling to flood him. It wasn't a matter of course that his daughter got along so well with his lover and he knew it.
Die and Mika had grown really close throughout the years, and there were times when the redhead really thought of her as their daughter instead of only Kaoru's. She often came to him with her troubles, even asking for advice, and although they had their arguments and fights as well they never staid mad for long. All in all they formed a well functioning, happy small family, and even Nozomi got along with both the guitarists nowadays, they had even had huge family dinners together with her new family.
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The whole situation with the rings or the accident... --> all love <3
>///
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Loved the ring buying part, especially when Kaoru bought that necklace as well. =)
And the "we are old and drink tea" bit, so adorable.
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I loved the coversations, so cute! XD But why do you always think as Die as the girl?? Even if it's just for fun. (I giggled many times XP)
You really feel the love in this chap,I liked that.
To seinen_no ;whoah, you're fast with editing O_O you really schould try to relax more often XD
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Thank you so much for reading and commenting^^
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But he can be manly too, you know (even though he's hiding it well offstage, lately XD) I know it's just joking around, and it's funny to imagine so it's all right *pat pat*
How can I -not- read and comment?? I never hesitate to say what's on my mind and I love your stories <33
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and the die`s accident is so sweet!
you made my day ^^
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Heh, you made DiexKaoru one of my favourite pairings! I just got used to it and I mostly look for something familiar...
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That's soooooo good to hear! We love DiexKaoru to no end so getting more fans amongst it is just plain awesome :D
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*spaz* loveitloveitloveit!!
More please :D
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If Die was seriously inujured I would have cried, and my boyf, his brother and their friend was in the room at the time...would have been so embarrassing. ><''
I shall sit in my corner and wait for update :D
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Heh, we try not to be too slow with an update XD
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Question, would it shock you if they admitted they were an item? IRL I mean. :P I wouldnt...I dont think xD
Take your time, You seem rather busy these days :D I can wait.
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YES! I saw it!!! I was watching some vids on youtube and its definately there.... xD
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(Anonymous) 2007-10-17 11:05 pm (UTC)(link)no subject
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They are both old men but we love them anyway.
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hehe, true x) And they still have half of their lives ahead of them!
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That's just so cute!
I like this chapter a lot *nod*
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Uhm.. I'm too tired to write any kind of a good comment, sorry~ (.______.)
But I just want you two to know that it was lovely!<3
*leave you a cookie* x3
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great chapter as always ^^
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anyway the accident scared me though, i was already thinking that Die'd need some kind of operation or something^^; but i love the way it ended well :D *sigh of relief*
and well now i hope you'll write some kind of chapter where Mika runs into them while they're *hum*screwinglikebunniesoncrack *hum* cause that'd be funny and well if i were in her place, hot x)
anyway update soon :DDDDD (cause if you don't it'll be like being in fanfic-rehab and that sucks XD;)
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Thank you, as always, for your comment, dear. It made me giggle and you'll soon find out why^^
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Well, I'm back at home and what do I see, still using dial-up and being tired to no end? An update! A matter of course I read it instantly and it's utterly, overwhelmingly cute and just so romantic when they cuddle and just be the old pair you turned them into!
I still and forever love love you for that!
More please soon. I still have one week of holidays and hopefully fast internet from tomorrow on. XD *gahurk*
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Heh, we made them "old" and cute, eh? Glad to hear that you like them like that too, because we certainly do. Just the imagination of them cuddling while they could do something else is pure sugar, if you ask me x)
And when Marjo's back tomorrow (or today), I am sure we'll update (or she will for she's our girl for the technic).
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before I go on reading the new chap I leave a comment on this one.
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Yeah, not much more to say. What I loved the most was the scene where Kao got the call, goes back to his seat, trying to concentrate on the play, but has to get up again 'cause he can't stop thinking of Die. This showed the depth of their relationship so clearly ...*is at a loss of words*
I became worried too and could understand Kao so well. When it became clear that nothing serious happened I was relieved. I think it's those small gestures that make one realize what you've got and what the partner really feels. Like Die did afterwards when Kaoru was with him at the hospital.
You showed those little things so perfect. This is why I love this story.
Soorry, if this got a little weird. I'm braindead. I was in the forrest the whole afternoon. Taking my dog for a walk and chatting with a friend of mine. ^^
*hugs both of you*
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And thank you! It's good to hear that, I was really a bit worried if we didn't manage to bring things out the way we wanted to. But I'm really relieved to hear you say that!
You really got it all right, it's all those small things that show how they really grew to be together and love each other. It makes me smile so much to think that they reached this level of steady relationship where everything comes so naturally to them :D
*hugs back tight* Thank you for reading once again^^ It's always a pleasure to receive a comment from you!
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diexkaoru...for all eternity >3
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*quickly goes back to studying for her Japanese exam >_<*
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