No Secrets

by DeeDeeGee

Summary:

Starting at the end of Yakuza 4- Kiryu visits Majima in a holding cell just before the finale, and invites Majima to come visit him and the kids in Okinawa. It isn’t long into the visit before the long standing feelings Kiryu has tried to keep buried are revealed.

How long will Kiryu and Majima be able to hold on to this whirlwind of a relationship before they both have to return to their lives?

Spoilers for up to at least Yakuza 5. Rating for later chapters.

Chapter 1: The Holding Cell

 The holding cells were cold and damp. Kiryu felt sick to his stomach being anywhere near this place, and the news he came to deliver only made things worse.

 Date had called in a giant favour from a trusted friend on the force, who had gotten them into Police Headquarters for a very limited time. Kiryu had come straight from the clinic after making one quick stop to eat and wipe the blood off his clothes. There were too few people he could trust inside police headquarters, and Date insisted on watching his back despite the late hour. He’d tried to protest, but he was grateful to have someone with him. Someone he could trust to make sure he walked back out.

 Trust. He’d trusted the wrong person again. Trusted that despite everything, there were men in this town who kept their word.

Soft as a marshmallow, he was. 

 Majima’s voice echoed through his brain from years prior. He had been soft, and it got another person killed. It nearly got them all killed.

 Now he had to tell Majima that he couldn’t do the one thing he’d asked, which was to protect Yasuko, and tell him that he had to wait even longer before they could get him out of this place.

 All the cells he walked past were crammed full of angry-looking people, most of them trying to sleep. There had been a lot more noise, but it stopped when they entered. It was nearly 3am. The last cell was empty save for one man, who sat on a thin bench with his legs up, one arm resting across his knees. Kiryu’s stomach managed to drop even further.

 After a moment, Majima’s head raised. He looked at Kiryu for a moment, then closed his eye. He looked utterly defeated.

“How many did we lose?” he asked.

“Majima-no-ni-” he started.

“How many?”

 Kiryu swallowed. “Yasuko. She sacrificed herself, but not before she killed the man who shot her, Katsuragi. The one who set you all up in the first place.”

 Majima shook his head. His lip was split, and it looked fresh, like it had happened that day.

“Fuck,” he whispered. “Twenty-five fucking years.”

“I’m sorry. I tried to-”

“Did they at least get to talk to each other?” Majima asked, cutting him off again.

“Yeah. For a few hours,” Kiryu replied. He didn’t have to ask who he meant. “If I’d been faster-”

“Don’t. If you and Saejima were there and it wasn’t enough, there aren’t many other people who could have helped.”

 He sounded bitter, of course he did. He’d been sold out and caged, after everything he’d done for Daigo, for the whole clan. And here he was stuck behind bars while he lost one of the only people he ever called family.

“I’m sorry,” Kiryu repeated. “Saejima is safe right now. There’s one more thing we need to do, then we’ll get you out.”

“Ya think they’re just gonna let me walk?” he spat.

“I don’t know,” Kiryu admitted, “but one way or another, I’ll get you out of here.”

He stepped forward and grabbed the bar in front of him. Majima looked at him for a long moment. He hadn’t moved since they’d started talking, but now he let one of his legs fall off the bench. There were bruises along his abdomen that weren’t there when he last saw him.

“Don’t make promises ya can’t keep, Kiryu.”

 Kiryu grit his teeth. “I will get you out of here,” he insisted. Majima just blinked at him.

 Kiryu had never heard him speak with so little energy. He couldn’t break him out, not yet anyway. It would only get them both killed. His hand tightened on the jail bar, wanting to rip it away with his hands. He understood the dull acceptance that came with being locked away, and seeing that on Majima’s face made him frantic.

 Majima looked at Kiryu’s other hand, the one that wasn’t holding the bar with a death grip. “What’s that?” he asked.

 Kiryu held up the cardboard carton. It had seemed like a good idea earlier, but now it felt foolish. A stupid little gesture for what he was going through. “It’s just food. I thought you might want something other than what they were giving you.”

 In one fluid motion, Majima planted his feet and rose from the bench, walking to the bars. “They ain’t giving me much,” he said, still bitter, but with a little more life in his voice.

Kiryu turned the box sideways to fit it through the bars and handed it over. “It might not look great. I had to hide it in my jacket. Oh, water too.”

 Majima accepted the water bottle Kiryu pulled from his jacket pocket and opened the box. It did look a little squished, but it was mostly intact. “Kiryu-chan, ya brought me takoyaki?” he asked, surprised.

 He started eating like he hadn’t eaten all day. Guilt twisted Kiryu’s insides, but he was relieved that Majima accepted the offering. It was the least he could do. “We have a plan. I can’t share the details, but it will work. This should all be over after tomorrow, and when I see Daigo,” his hands curled into fists, “I’ll make sure this never happens again.”

 Majima kept eating, eyes on the food, until it was all gone, then he gulped down the water like he hadn’t had much of that either. Kiryu checked his watch. He knew the time he was promised was nearly up. He reached for the box and bottle, knowing the trouble it would cause if they were left in the cell.

“It would’ve been nice to see it,” Majima said as he passed the box back, “yer little place on the beach. It sounded peaceful.”

 Kiryu nodded. “You should visit us, once this is over.”

“Sure,” Majima replied with a wistful smile. Another expression Kiryu had never seen before. He’d never been great at reading Majima’s expressions, but anyone could see that Majima clearly didn’t believe him.

“I should have invited you a long time ago,” Kiryu added.

“I woulda liked that,” Majima said firmly, looking him straight in the eye.

 There was anger under that bitterness. Kiryu couldn’t blame him. “I’ll make it right.” 

 Majima blinked at him. “Thanks for this, Kiryu-chan, really. Don’t get yerself killed.”

“I won’t. Killing me is your job, right?” Kiryu asked, trying to smile.

 Majima reached out and touched his knuckles to Kiryu’s hand for a second. “Right,” he said, with half a smile that was clearly for Kiryu’s sake. He wasn’t convinced, and Kiryu realized that for Majima, he thought this was the last time they were seeing each other.

 From the other end of the room, Date loudly cleared his throat. Kiryu knew he had to go. He was pushing his luck as it was. Words didn’t always come easily, especially around Majima, but there was nothing he could say that could help now. “I will get you out of here,” he repeated. “I promise.”

 Majima nodded and walked back to his bench. Kiryu reluctantly walked away, looking back before he left. Majima had returned to the same spot, but with his head against the wall behind him, looking his way.

They had to win. A promise was a promise.

Chapter 2: The Movie

 Two days had passed since the showdown on the roof of the Millennium Tower. The worst was over, and the dust had settled. Tanimura was taking Kiryu and Date to the station tomorrow to release Majima.

 Kiryu hadn’t expected the way things had gone down. He never thought he’d have to put Daigo so firmly in his place. His anger should have cooled by now but it hadn’t. The guilt he’d once felt for leaving everything behind was replaced by disgust, and a rage that wouldn’t fade. 

 A lot would change now. Kiryu would insist on Saejima getting his own family, and he’d make sure things were secure before he left town, but that was it. He was done with all of it. For good this time.

 At least Haruka had flown out for a few days. She’d been through a lot and needed a break, so she’d asked to come see him. It was a relief for Kiryu, so much so that it felt selfish, but he always felt better when she was around. A reminder of why he kept going, of what he was fighting for. Despite how little there was for a young teenager to do in this town, it was her choice, and after everything she did to help him, he could never resist her reasonable requests. 

 She’d arrived last night. She was proud of flying by herself, and enthusiastically told him that she wasn’t afraid of the turbulence, and that the flight attendants had been really nice. She also met Akiyama, who not only came to the airport with Kiryu to pick her up, but had insisted on paying for her ticket. 

 Even though his funds were mostly depleted, Akiyama had also set them up with a suite at a reputable hotel owned by one of his clients. Kiryu would have refused any other time, but he was exhausted, and they both needed this. He was getting too old to camp out on the Serena’s couches. 

 After sleeping in much later than either of them were used to, Haruka and Kiryu had brunch at the brand new café in the hotel lobby. Haruka wanted to try out the batting cages herself instead of just watching him, then they played the newest games at Club Sega. Neither of them were very good, but they wound up laughing as they made mistakes. 

 Now they sat at Cafe Alps, just having finished an early dinner, talking about desserts. Kiryu still felt tense, but he was grateful for all the distractions. 

 He sat across from Haruka, facing the door. The ever-bustling crowds passed by on the other side of the frosted glass, a blur of background activity that he hadn’t been paying attention to until a man in a dark suit stopped abruptly in front of the window. They weren’t sitting close to the front, but it was too rare to see anyone with an eyepatch to imagine it could be anyone else. 

 The door opened and Majima walked swiftly over to their table, looking grim, no, not grim. Angry. He wore a dark grey suit with a red shirt and black tie. Kiryu had seen that look on him before, but it was always strange to see him formally dressed. 

“Majima no nii-san,” Kiryu said, surprised. 

“Are ya ignoring all your fuckin’ calls or just mine?” Majima replied. 

 Kiryu reached for his phone. Four missed calls and two emails. “Oh. I had the sound off. I thought you were being released tomorrow.”

 Majima’s expression didn’t change. He kept his eyes on Kiryu but gestured towards Haruka. 

“Little young for you, eh?” he said, glaring down at Kiryu like he’d offended him somehow. 

“What are you talking about?  This is Haruka.” 

 Majima blinked, then turned to Haruka, who was looking up at him with a curious expression.

“Oh,” he said after a moment. “Ya got tall, kid.”

“Will you join us, Majima-san? We were about to order dessert.” Haruka asked politely, motioning to the empty chair adjacent to her at their square table. 

 Majima looked between them like he was carefully assessing both of them. He looked less angry, but not quite like his usual self. 

“I’m sure Majima-san is very busy-” Kiryu started, but was cut off by Majima.

“Sure, why not? I was gonna talk shop but I don’t feel like it anymore.”

 He pulled out the chair and sat down. A waiter came by to take their empty plates away. Kiryu asked for menus again so they could look at the desserts. Majima ordered a coffee. 

“Just two menus, thank you,” Haruka added, “I know what I want.”

 The waiter brought the menus, and Majima’s coffee. As soon as the waiter left, Kiryu turned to him. 

“If I’d known you were getting out today I would’ve been there. What happened?”

“Your cop buddy, the old fart. He came in  yellin’ at everybody. I only heard part of it as I was goin’ past, but he was on a rampage. He’s probably still there, screaming about integrity or some shit.”

 Kiryu read the emails. One from Date, sent three hours ago. A carefully composed note telling him he was able to meet with his former officers a day early and that things may change.

 The other email said PICK UP UR FUCKING PHONE which was sent by an unlisted number. It was fairly clear who that was from. All four missed calls were from the same number. 

“Have you had dinner, Majima-san?” Haruka asked. 

 Majima, who had been frowning at Kiryu, looked at her like he’d already forgotten she was there. “Yeah, but I could do a dessert. What’s good here?”

“They make the best strawberry parfait,” Haruka said with a smile. Kiryu was pleased she was being so polite. He’d told her what Majima had gone through, and her compassion made him proud. 

“I’ll give it a shot. Beats the hell out of the shit they’ve been feeding me for the last week.”

 Haruka’s expression turned stern. “You swear a lot.”

“Haruka-” Kiryu said, but Majima waved him away. 

“Old habits. Ya don’t like swearing?” he asked, looking like himself for the first time. Or at least like his usual wild persona. 

“No. You shouldn’t swear in public,” she replied confidently. 

 Majima laughed, a sound much louder than anything he’d said. “Did he teach you that?” he said, pointing at Kiryu without looking at him. “Kiryu-chan doesn’t swear, but that’s only ‘cause he doesn’t know any of the words.”

 Haruka’s eyes widened. She covered her mouth to hide a laugh, then shot Kiryu a guilty look. Kiryu smiled to show her he wasn’t upset. 

 He wasn’t sure about this. If things took a turn and Majima picked a fight, he’d grab her and run, but so far, this wasn’t unpleasant, and Haruka looked happy. 

 The waiter returned. Kiryu ordered two strawberry parfaits, and a chocolate one for himself. There was plenty he wanted to say, but he didn’t want to have that talk here. Still, there was one thing he had to ask. 

“Have you seen Saejima yet?” 

“Yep. Just ate dinner with him. He filled me in on what happened the other night.”

 Kiryu looked between the two of them. He’d told Haruka a watered down version of the story to keep from upsetting her. 

“Don’t worry, I still don’t wanna talk about it,” Majima said, reading his expression easily. Kiryu never understood how he was able to do that. 

 The desserts were placed in front of them and Kiryu couldn’t help but smile at Haruka’s excitement. She took on so much responsibility at home, it was nice to see her get to be a kid once in a while.

“We’re going to see a movie after this,” Haruka said after her first bite. “Flowers In The Desert 2.”

“What’s that about?” Majima asked. Kiryu wasn’t sure why he was indulging Haruka like this, or why they seemed so comfortable with each other. It was confusing, but not unwelcome. 

 Haruka enthusiastically described the novel series the movies were based on, along with most of the plot of the first movie, the teenage action heroine, the typical love triangle, and the evil corporation they fought against. Majima asked thoughtful, funny questions, and not for the first time, Kiryu was impressed at how well he could keep a conversation going. He knew just what to say to keep her happy and interested. It was always fascinating to see a glimpse of that charming Lord of the Night he once claimed to be. 

 Kiryu was lost in thought, but Haruka shook him back to the present. “So you’ll come with us?”

 Majima didn’t look at him, “If that’s whatcha want, I’m there.” He tapped the side of his half eaten parfait. “This is good, but too sweet for my gut. Ya want the rest?”

 Haruka looked to Kiryu, who just shrugged. Haruka accepted the parfait, as she was already finished with her own. He was happy to see them getting along. Haruka had met some pretty awful people in this town. If the strongest person he knew was on her side, that was a good thing. 

 And Majima? Kiryu had no idea why he’d  agreed to join them for the movie, but he was grateful he was here and not behind bars. Kiryu thought back to that defeated look on Majima’s face and felt a strong flash of anger. To the point that when Haruka’s hand touched his own, he realized he was holding his spoon so hard it was starting to bend. 

“How was yours, Uncle Kaz?” she asked gently. 

“Good. Sorry, I should have saved you a bite,” Kiryu said, loosening his grip and trying to relax his shoulders. She could see through him just as well as Majima.  

 Strange that these were the two people who knew him best. Anyone who knew him any better was long gone, except for maybe Date. A sad thought, but it made him appreciate what was in front of him, his daughter, and his… friend? He wasn’t sure where he stood with Majima right now, but he was no longer worried about a fight breaking out, so he figured that was progress. 

 Although with all the anger he was holding on to from the other night, he could use a good fight. A movie catered to teenagers would have to do. 

 When they were finished, Kiryu stood and paid for the meal, while the other two laughed at a joke he couldn’t hear.  Once done he held the door open for both of them. 

“Thank you, Uncle Kaz,” Haruka said as she passed. 

“Thanks, Uncle Kaz,” Majima echoed in the same tone, before snickering. Haruka walked ahead of them on the busy street, and Kiryu looked at Majima. 

“If this one’s like the first movie, it’ll be almost three hours long,” Kiryu warned. 

 Majima shrugged. “Was it any good?”

 Kiryu considered. “It was loud and over-dramatic, but there were a couple of good fight scenes.”

 He nodded, “Good enough for me.”

“You shouldn’t feel obligated-”

“Aw, shut up. I’ll get the snacks.” Majima  said, rolling his eye. He took out his wallet and shoved a couple of bills in Kiryu’s suit jacket pocket before he could stop him. “For my ticket.”

“Okay.” Kiryu said. It was strange, but he wasn’t complaining. Haruka still looked happy, and that was reassuring. He wished he were better at reading Majima’s expression. His lip was still split, but was healing. He must still be hurt, but if he hadn’t seen the bruises on his abdomen he never would have known. He walked with the same unaffected ease he always did, scratching the back of his neck as they walked towards Theater Square.

 Haruka looked back and gave Kiryu a wide smile. She’d been looking forward to this movie for a long time, and was so happy when they saw it was playing today. He smiled in response as she fell into step on the other side of him now that there was enough space, and reached out. She still liked holding his hand, which he never wanted to take for granted. He knew that it might not be long before she decided she was too old for it. 

 On his other side, he heard a snort from Majima. 

“What?” Kiryu asked. 

 Majima shrugged, “Nothin’. Just thinkin’ that if my parents had ever looked at me like that, I mighta turned out okay.”

 He said it with a laugh, but it was such a sad thing to say that Kiryu had no idea how to respond. Haruka looked sympathetic as well. She moved behind Kiryu so she could stand between the two men. She took Kiryu’s other hand, and to his surprise, reached for Majima’s. 

 Majima raised an eyebrow, but accepted her hand, swinging it as they walked. “Lemme know if ya feel like clotheslining some tourists, Haruka-chan.  We need a running start.”

 Haruka laughed as Majima mimed getting hit in the chest by their hands. A man passing by gave them a funny look, but the glare he got from Majima in return was enough to make him all but run away. Kiryu felt a touch more relaxed despite the unusual situation.

“I hear ya got a nice beach close to your place,” Majima was saying. 

“It’s the best place in the world. The sand is soft and clean, and in the summer the water is almost warm. We play baseball on the beach, and Uncle Kaz catches us fish with a spear.”

“Majima-san said he might come visit us,” Kiryu said, hoping that he wasn’t overstepping. 

“That’s great. You’ll love it,” Haruka said with a nod. Majima said nothing, but he didn’t look unhappy. 

 Kiryu paid for their tickets as Haruka, still holding Majima’s hand, brought him to the movie poster and pointed out each of the characters they were about to see. There was no way he could have been interested in a teen drama, but it really looked like he couldn’t wait to see this movie. 

 A Wednesday early show meant the theatre was fairly empty. Haruka lead the way to their seats. Kiryu followed her up to the middle of the theatre, as Majima said sitting too far back gave him a headache. They’d improved the seats since Kiryu had last been here. They were large and comfortable now, with plenty of leg room. They sat in the middle of the row, Haruka to his right, Majima on his left. In addition to drinks, Majima had bought them the biggest tub of popcorn they sold, and Kiryu spent the couple of minutes before the lights went down passing it back and forth between them. 

 There were a young couple down near the front, and a large group of kids off to the side, but nobody anywhere near them. Kiryu took a deep breath, relaxing further into the plush chair. Majima had sprawled out the way he always did, and Haruka was sitting forward, eager for the movie to start. 

 They were halfway through the previews when Majima yawned and stretched. Out of the corner of his eye, Kiryu saw him almost imperceptibly wince. He couldn’t help himself from looking over. Majima looked at him for a moment, then passed him the popcorn. 

“Are you okay?” Kiryu asked in a low voice, as they hit a loud moment from an upcoming monster movie. 

 Majima shrugged and leaned in close. “Could be worse,” he said. His face was close enough to Kiryu’s ear that he could feel his breath. “I can’t tell if yer pissed about me crashing yer day out.”

“No. I’m glad you’re here,” Kiryu said stiffly.

 There was more he could say, but the room grew silent as the movie started. Maybe that was for the best. He wondered if it had been the other prisoners who’d hurt him or the guards. Knowing Majima, it was probably both. He snuck another look, if only to make sure that defeated look was really gone. 

 Majima didn’t look at him, but he did smile. Kiryu sat back, happy to be able to rest. His muscles still ached from the fight the other night, and no trip into the city was complete without a few idiots picking fights on the street. The stress and anger had taken its toll.

 Kiryu tried to pay attention to the movie. It was similar to the first one, dramatic and convoluted, but Haruka was glued to the screen. It was almost funny, Kiryu thought, as the main character pined for her sworn enemy, the son of the villain.

 Twenty minutes in, Majima’s head bobbed, like he’d almost nodded off. Kiryu didn’t look over, but out of the corner of his eye he saw Majima loosen his tie and take a deep breath. 

 Not quite ten minutes after that, Majima’s head hit his shoulder. He tensed up completely before he realized Majima was fast asleep. Kiryu didn’t know what to do. He should probably wake him, but what if he needed the sleep? Would he be annoyed at the contact when he woke up?  Kiryu had no idea. He looked down at Majima. He could only see part of his face, the rest was obscured by his hair and eyepatch. 

 The part he could see looked a little more gaunt than he was used to, like he hadn’t been eating enough. It was strange to see him in a suit, and stranger still to see him this close up without worrying he was going to get hit in the face. The cologne he wore reminded Kiryu of one of the last times they’d seen each other, when Majima had come to his rescue in one of his giant pink trucks last year. 

 After a long internal debate, Kiryu decided to let him sleep. It was for his own sake. He couldn’t imagine getting much sleep in that holding cell. Having a dangerous guy like Majima sleeping like a baby on his shoulder was weirdly comforting. Kiryu didn’t feel the strange panic he always felt when they were close. It helped that he couldn’t see the sharp eye that always saw right through him. He smiled to himself. It was funny that somehow, this was the thing that helped him fully relax. 

 This movie was even longer than the first, and as it neared its conclusion, Kiryu wondered at what point he should wake up the still-sleeping Majima. It would probably be worse to wait till the lights came up, so he should probably do it soon. He’d stayed as still as possible during the movie to keep from jostling him awake, and the pins and needles in his arm were getting bad. Haruka was still too engrossed in the movie to notice.

“Majima,” he whispered, moving his shoulder gently. Thankfully, that was enough. Majima stirred, groaning slightly as he rubbed his neck and looked around. Kiryu kept his head forward. He had no idea what to say, so he chose the easy route and said nothing as Majima stretched, catlike, beside him. 

 After another minute the credits rolled, and Majima made a low noise of confusion. “Huh? It was that short?”

 Kiryu checked his watch. “About three hours.”

“What?” Majima asked loudly. On the other side, Haruka sighed happily. 

“Did you like it?” Kiryu asked. 

“Yes. Thanks so much for taking us!  They skipped one of my favourite parts of the book, but I still really liked it. I can’t wait for the next one. The third book is the best in the series.”

 Kiryu nodded, pleased that they’d gone. Majima still looked confused as they walked out of the theater. It was dark now, and getting cold. Majima made no move to say goodbye, and continued to walk with them towards their hotel. Kiryu wasn’t about to stop him. 

 There was comfort in walking down the street, knowing that if a fight broke out, he had the best backup anyone could ask for. Nobody even got close to them, although given how public his arrest had been, he did see people looking curiously at Majima. 

“How long are ya staying?” Majima asked. 

“A few more days,” Kiryu replied, feeling the tension rise again. “I’ll make sure things are more in control before I go.”

 Majima nodded. It looked like he was itching to say more, but in a surprising show of restraint, he shook his head and sighed. It was clear he was frustrated. How could he not be?  

 Kiryu knew he should say something, but nothing could fix what had happened. He didn’t realize his hands were in fists till Haruka took his hand again. She was always looking after him. He took her hand, and as they walked towards the hotel, she told them both about the differences between the movie they’d just seen and the book. 

 They reached the hotel and Majima yawned. “I could sure use a drink,” he said, following them inside.

“You two should go get one. I’m getting tired anyway,” Haruka said. 

 Kiryu frowned. “I don’t want to leave you alone.”

“I’ll be fine, Uncle Kaz. I have my books and the TV. I don’t want to go to a bar even if I could,” Haruka said. 

“Are you sure?”

 Haruka nodded. Kiryu hesitated. A drink did sound good, and he did have a few things to tell Majima. At last he agreed, but only after they walked her back up to their room. 

“Nice place,” Majima said as they stepped inside. The hotel was an unexpected luxury, new and modern, with a view overlooking the city. When Kiryu first saw it the day before, he wondered how much the owner must have borrowed from Akiyama to dole out a room like this so easily. 

 They’d barely stepped inside before Haruka started pushing him back out. “I’m pretty tired so I’ll probably be asleep when you get back, Stay out as long as you like.”

“Ya heard the boss,” Majima said, “let’s go.”

Chapter 3: The Drink

 Majima said goodnight to Haruka, and Kiryu reminded her to not open the door to anybody. After ensuring the door was locked from the outside, Kiryu walked back towards the hotel’s elevator with Majima. 

 As soon as the elevator doors closed, Majima’s eye was trained on him. “I heard ya knocked him right on his ass. Wish I could’ve seen that.”

 Kiryu didn’t need clarification. It was clear he meant Daigo. “It had to be done,” he said. “I hate that it had to come to that, but it had to be done.” He took a deep breath. “I’ll talk to him again once he’s recovered and when I’m less… less angry.” It made his blood boil even thinking about it. 

“When you’re ready I want a full play-by-play. Saejima tells a good story, but he missed most of yer fight cuz he was beating some other punk’s ass,” Majima said. He smiled, but there was anger behind his words. 

“You never should have been arrested. I can’t believe he did that to you. After everything you did”-

“Lemme come with you when ya go. I got a few words for the young chairman myself, and if you’re there I’m less likely to slap him around,” Majima said, holding the lobby door open as they left the building, heading east along Park Boulevard. 

“The problem is I might not stop you,” Kiryu said bitterly. 

“Yeah ya would,” Majima replied, “angry you is still you.”

 Kiryu took another deep breath to try to calm his anger. The night air helped some. 

“I can’t believe I slept through that whole movie,” Majima said with a laugh. 

 Kiryu was grateful for the change of subject. “Me neither. There were a lot of explosions at the end.”

“It shocked the hell outta me. I couldn’t let my guard down in that damn cell, so…thanks for lettin’ me sleep,” he said, “I didn’t drool on yer shoulder, did I?”

“No, I don’t think so,” Kiryu replied with a smile. “Where are we going?”

“Dunno. I don’t wanna go somewhere where a fight’ll break out.”

“That doesn’t sound like you.” 

“I’m too fuckin’ tired, even after that nice little nap. Don’t think I could hold back if someone was stupid enough to start something, and none of the dipshits out here are strong enough to handle that.”

“I understand.” Kiryu said quietly. 

“Course ya do. Yer the only one who gets it.”   

Kiryu realized this was the first time he’d sworn since Haruka had told him to stop. “Thanks for being so good with Haruka.”

“Ya raised a good kid, Kiryu-chan. She’s grown so much it makes me feel my years.”

“She’s had to grow up pretty fast, but she’s strong. She could probably run the orphanage by herself at this point, she’s so responsible.”

 A couple of young guys looked like they might cause trouble up ahead. Majima turned at the next corner. “There’s a tiny place over there called Lux Bar. It’s usually quiet.” 

“Sure.”

 In all the years they’d known each other, they’d only gone for a drink, just the two of them, a couple of times. Once to talk strategy for the construction company brawls, and once for karaoke. 

 This felt like an important step. There was a camaraderie that had slowly built in the last few years, despite them barely seeing each other. Talking about it seemed like it would break the spell, and it would be back to fighting in dark alleys. Not that Kiryu had entirely disliked that, but he appreciated the change. 

 Majima led him into an elevator and up to the little bar. It overlooked the Hills site, with private booths covered in dark blue velvet. Soft music played, and the whole place felt soothing. There was only one other table of people there. 

“Good evening, Majima-san. Sit wherever you’d like, and I’ll be right over,” the bartender said graciously. 

They sat down in a booth in the corner, and Kiryu looked out at the tower. “The Hills have really come along.”

“After a ton of false starts and an endless parade of shitheads gettin’ in our way. I can’t wait till it’s done and outta my hands,” Majima said, looking at the tower like it insulted him. 

“It’s an impressive achievement.”

 Majima snorted. “Tell me that again when it’s finished, if ya ever come back and see it.”

“I doubt this is the last time I’ll ever be here.” Kiryu said. 

Majima looked at him, like he was trying to decide what to say. Unusual for him, who usually blurted out whatever he wanted. 

The bartender came by and Majima ordered an expensive whiskey. “It’s on me tonight. Get whatever ya want.”

 Kiryu felt guilty, but these days it was rare that he drank anything but what was cheapest. He ordered the same whiskey as Majima. 

“Your offer,” Majima said, “‘bout seeing your place in Okinawa, was that real?”

 Kiryu nodded. “Yes. As soon as you can, please visit us.” Images of sitting on the beach, of swimming in the ocean, and showing off that little gem of a soba place flashed through Kiryu’s mind. “It would be really good to have you there.”

 Majima smiled like he’d told a joke. “I don’t get many people sayin’ that to me unless they need some heads smashed.”

 Their drinks arrived and Majima took a long swig of his before sighing. “All right. Tell me all about the beating ya handed out, and all the mess leadin’ up to it. Don’t skimp on the details by bein’ humble and shit. I know how you fight.”

 It was Kiryu’s turn to sigh. He wasn't the best storyteller, especially when the story was about himself. Maybe it was the exhaustion or the anger, or even the trust he’d built with the man across the table, but it all came spilling out. He told him what happened from the day Saejima washed up on the beach up until the fight other night. He described the all-consuming anger and disappointment he felt towards Daigo after Majima’s arrest, the deep shame at not being able to reunite the brother and sister for longer than a day, and for letting Majima down. 

 And then there was the fight. Kiryu could barely look Majima in the eye, but he went over every punch and kick, the regret on Daigo’s face, the way he wanted to keep going long after Daigo had enough, and even how Kiryu had barely slept since.

 The story poured out of him like a dam breaking. Kiryu never talked like this. There wasn’t anyone he could talk to like this. When he finished, embarrassment hit him hard. He took a drink of his neglected whiskey, and looked back out over the Hills. 

“Shit, Kiryu-chan,” Majima said. When Kiryu stole a look at him, his expression was once again grim. “You need a vacation more than I do.”

 Kiryu nodded, “Sorry about that.”

“I asked, didn’t I?” 

“Who gave you this?” Kiryu asked, pointing to his own lip in the spot where Majima’s was healing. 

“Some jackass. I couldn’t give them any excuse to send me off to a prison somewhere, but I wasn’t gonna take any shit either. Every guy they put in there with me wanted a piece, and after a few days I got my own cell. They were all pissed though, and took shifts making sure I didn’t get any sleep. Right up till this morning.”

“I’m sorry,” Kiryu said. 

 Majima reached his hand out and touched Kiryu’s, guiding it to the table. Kiryu was confused till he noticed how hard he was gripping the delicate whiskey glass. “This’ll shatter if you’re not careful.”

“Oh,” Kiryu said. He felt helpless against his emotions tonight, but his anger was cooled by the wave of gratitude he felt for someone who listened, and cared enough to keep him from going too far. “Th-thanks.”

 Majima nodded. His gloved hand hesitated over Kiryu’s for a moment longer than it had to. Kiryu didn’t know what that meant. He imagined a version of himself that grabbed Majima’s hand and kept it there. One who continued to talk about far more complicated feelings, about how lonely he was without… no. There was no point even thinking about that. He’d embarrassed himself enough already. 

 Majima was staring at him now, both elbows on the table and one hand under his chin. That single dark eye could read him like a book, a worrying prospect given his current train of thought. A tiny voice inside him asked if it were really such a bad thing. As he always did, he shut that voice down. 

“Gratitude don’t come easy to me, but today was a good day,” Majima said. 

“Yeah. I’m glad you found us.”

“I got food, a movie, a nap, and now a drink? Pretty solid welcome back.”

“Heh, well,” Kiryu said, taking a chance, “I’m no good at pole dancing.” 

Slowly, a smile crept on Majima’s face until he threw his head back and laughed. “I almost forgot about that. And how’d ya know you’re no good? Have ya tried?” His smile turned wicked. 

“It’s not really my style,” Kiryu said, smiling back. It was hard not to, when Majima looked so delighted. 

“I wasn’t sure it was mine, but damn if it wasn’t fun,” Majima said with another laugh. “Feels like forever since I had any real fun. Too much fuckin’ responsibility these days.” 

 He looked out at the Hills with a scowl,  pulled his tie off, and stuffed it in his shirt pocket. He then undid the top button of his shirt, as if even talking about this was stifling. 

“Don’t wait too long before coming to see us. Daigo owes you, and I’ll make sure he knows that if he hasn’t figured it out already,” Kiryu said firmly. There was a lot he wanted to say, but he could at least make sure Majima knew he was wanted there. “The sea air is good for you. You could stay with us, or there’s a hotel a short train ride away.”

“Ya got this all planned out, huh?” Majima said, still smiling like they were joking. 

“It’s a pretty simple life out there, but they’re good kids, and the neighbourhood is beautiful.”

“Ya don’t need to sell it to me, Kiryu-chan.  If it’s not gonna be a problem for ya, I’ll be there.”

“It won’t be a problem. You wouldn’t be the first man with tattoos the kids have seen.”

“Yer sayin they won’t be impressed?” Majima asked, touching the edge of his inked chest. 

“Heh, I wouldn’t say that,” Kiryu said.  

“Damn right.” 

 They finished their drinks, and Majima motioned to the bartender to bring them another round. 

“I shouldn’t have too much,” Kiryu warned. 

“Two is too much? You’re that much of lightweight now, Kiryu-chan?”

“No, I’m just saying in general.” 

“Ya don’t want Haruka to see ya barf. Got it.”

 It was a silly enough thing to say that it made Kiryu laugh. When he looked at Majima again he looked triumphant, smiling in a way he’d rarely seen. Not the wild grin he used when he fought, but a real smile. Kiryu wondered what he could do to keep him smiling like that. Majima  was so… Kiryu looked away before his thoughts went to that forbidden place again.

 The second drink tasted better than the first, even if they had less to say. Before they left, they agreed to meet at Tojo HQ in two days, giving Kiryu enough time to spend with Haruka, and to cool off. Kiryu felt lighter as he finished his drink. It really had been a nice day. 

“I got the most comfortable bed in town, and she’s callin’ my name,” Majima said as they left the bar. “Unless ya wanna fight, for old time’s sake.”

 Even Kiryu could tell he was joking. “Get some rest, Nii-san. I’ll see you Friday.”

“Sleep tight, Kiryu-chan.”

Chapter 4: Monday

 Kiryu looked over the house one last time. Everything was about as clean as it could get. It had been about a month and a half since he’d drank with Majima at the bar. He hadn’t heard a word since he came back to Okinawa, till he’d gotten a call a week ago. To his surprise, it was Majima himself, who said he was finally ready to leave Saejima and Daigo and come for his visit. 

 The kids were briefed on who was coming. He stressed that their guest wasn’t used to being around so many kids, so they should do their best to be polite and not ask questions about his eye. 

 It was a bright and sunny Monday afternoon, and the kids were all on the beach playing baseball. Kiryu sat down on the front steps. There were no more preparations he could make. 

 Soon after he sat down, Haruka arrived home from school, waving at him from the road. 

“How was your presentation?” Kiryu asked as she joined him on the steps. 

“Good, I think. I’ll find out for sure tomorrow.  He’s not here yet?” 

“No, but he should be any minute,” he said. “Last I heard he was about to take a cab from the airport.”

“Don’t be nervous. He won’t be expecting anything fancy,” Haruka said gently. 

“I’m not nervous,” Kiryu lied, “I just want to make sure everything is ready.”

“I’ll keep the kids busy,” she said seriously, “Ii’s important that you have friends your own age. You told me that once.”

“Thank you,” he replied with a pat to her head, grateful for the care she showed for him and the kids. 

 They sat in peaceful silence for another minute till they heard tires on the gravel down the street. Kiryu stood up quickly, unsure of what to do with his hands. He crossed them in front of his chest, then figured that looked too angry and put them back down. 

 The taxi pulled up to the entrance. Kiryu didn’t know whether to expect a suit or snakeskin, but neither emerged from the back seat. Majima wore faded jeans and a white tank top underneath an open red and black flower-patterned shirt. The short sleeves blended in with the tattoos on his arms. He wore aviator sunglasses with mirror lenses instead of his eyepatch. Aside from the haircut, and the pointed steel-toed shoes, it would have taken a while to recognize him in a crowd. 

“Oh! He looks.. different,” Haruka said, echoing his thoughts. Very different, Kiryu thought. It wasn’t a bad change. 

 He walked up to the cab just as it left, leaving Majima alone, hoisting a large bag over his shoulder. Beyond him, he saw a gaggle of curious faces, but the kids stayed on the beach. 

“Majima no nii-san,” Kiryu said. 

 Majima smiled from behind his sunglasses and took a few steps into the yard. “Yo, Kiryu-chan. This is the place, huh?”

Kiryu nodded. 

“Haruka-chan,” Majima said with a nod, as she stepped forward. 

“How was your flight, Majima-san?” Haruka asked. 

“Not bad. Only two hours, and the guy next to me didn’t talk to me once,” he replied. He looked happy, and that helped put Kiryu at ease.  

“Come in. Take the tour while the kids are out playing,” Kiryu said. 

 Majima turned around and waved to the crowd of kids who’d gathered across the street. They turned and ran back towards the water in a fit of giggles. Haruka ran out after them, leaving the two men to walk in alone. 

“It looks so new,” Majima said. 

“It had to be completely rebuilt last year.”

 Majima grit his teeth, “Ah, right.”

 He followed Kiryu through all the rooms, till they reached Kiryu’s. Majima snickered at the taped up portraits of Kiryu the kids had drawn, which varied in quality and recognizability. One was just a very round head, with hair that stuck straight up and dark, angry lines between the eyebrows. Legs and arms stuck directly out of the of the head. “This one’s a masterpiece.” he said with a snort.

 Kiryu smiled, “You never gave me an answer as to whether you were staying here or at a hotel. We don’t have a lot of space, so you’d either stay in here with me, or in the dining room-”

 He would have said more but Majima dropped his bag on the floor next to him. He then took out his phone and took a photo of the drawing he thought was funny, and another photo of a finely detailed portrait that Saki had given him the day construction was complete. 

“There’s nine of em?” Majima asked, crouching down and putting his phone away in his bag. 

“Including Haruka, yeah. It can be a lot, but they’re well-behaved.”

“After keepin’ my boys in line I’m used to worse. I’m guessin’ the kids don’t start throwing punches when they get stupid.”

“Not really, but if they did they’d be easy to block.”

 Majima chuckled and looked around the rest of the room, slowly circling Kiryu. With the sunglasses, he was even harder to read. It was strange to see him without the thin black strap across his face. 

 After a pause, Majima finally spoke. “I’ve been here five seconds and I can already see how much happier ya are here,” he said, the smile on his face fading, “and I know that means there’s a good chance this is the last time I’ll see ya.”

“Why would you say that?” 

“Come on, Kiryu-chan. You won’t go back unless somebody drags ya, and I’ve done what I could in the last few years to keep that from happening. This kinda feels like it’s it, don’t it?”

“No. I don’t think so,” Kiryu said. He wished he could see his eye. 

 Majima didn’t acknowledge that sentence. “So I ain’t gonna tell any war stories, I’ll be good with the kids, I’ll be a model houseguest.”

 Kiryu was confused. What was he getting at? “Thank you?”

 Majima turned around to face the wall and took something out of his back pocket. When he turned back, a solid black eyepatch was in place. Kiryu thought it would be a relief to look in his eye, instead the intensity of his expression threatened to fluster him. 

“What I’m sayin’ is, I’m gonna make the most of this, Kiryu-chan,” he said. He had the same look in his eye as he did five years ago when he was chasing him down the street. A dangerous look. Kiryu didn’t look away, but he was no less confused. Should he be ready to fight? That conflicted with his promise to be a good houseguest. Dealing with the kids had made Kiryu better at reading people, but it turned out that still didn’t apply to the one person he wished he could read the most. 

“Okay,” Kiryu said, not knowing what else to say. 

 Majima smiled like he’d said something funny, put his sunglasses on over the patch, and walked out of the room. “All right, let’s see this beach!” he called behind him, shoving his feet back in his shoes and stepping out in the sun. 

 Kiryu followed, deciding to let go of whatever that conversation was for now. Majima took a deep breath, and stretched his arms over his head till his shoulder made a loud crunch. 

“Old or new injury?” Kiryu asked as they crossed the street. 

“Ancient,” he replied. 

 Kiryu nodded. He had a few of those. The kids had returned to their baseball game, but stopped as they approached. They looked hesitant to get too close, and  gathered in a clump behind Haruka. 

 Kiryu was about to speak, but it was Haruka who took the lead. “Everybody say hi to Uncle’s Kaz’s friend, Majima-san.”

 A chorus of greetings and bows followed. Haruka introduced each of them while Majima nodded, hands on his hips. When the introductions were over there was a moment of nervous hesitation before the kids started asking questions. Taichi asked if he liked wrestling, and started yelling about wrestling without waiting for an answer. The other kids started chiming in with their own interests until Majima put up a hand, silencing the group with impressive ease. 

“I didn’t catch any of that except somethin’ about baseball,” he said. 

“Do you want to play with us, Majima-san?” Mitsuo asked, handing him a bat. 

 Majima examined the bat, twirling it in his hand, which made the younger kids giggle. “Let’s see whatcha got.”

“Just try to keep it on the beach. We don’t have a lot of extra balls,” Kiryu said. 

 They didn’t play a game really, they just took turns pitching for each other. The kids were impressed with how far Majima could send the ball flying, and all wanted a turn to pitch for him. 

 After a while, Kiryu checked his watch. He should start on dinner soon. He worried Majima would be annoyed by the kids, but so far he was really making an effort, laughing along with them, and making them run all the way across the beach with every ball he hit. 

“I want to get dinner started,” he said loudly to all of them. “I could use a hand, Nii-san.” 

“Sure,” Majima said, tossing the ball he held over to Haruka, and following Kiryu back up towards the house. 

“They like you already,” Kiryu said. 

“I can be likeable once in a while, don’t sound so damn shocked,” Majima said as they stepped back inside. “Hot out today.”

“It’ll be a lot warmer in a month. The first summer took a lot of getting used to.”

“And yer sure the kids ain’t freaked out about tattoos?” 

“Yeah, they’re fine, and they’ve already seen yours,” Kiryu said, pointing to the inked part that peeked out below his shirt sleeve. 

“No way! Look at this, they’re in disguise,” Majima said, holding up his arm and flexing. 

“It is a good match,” Kiryu said, looking quickly away and leading the way to the kitchen. 

“What’re we making? I’m good with a knife and look great in an apron.”

“I do have a lot of chopping to do, but you don’t have to help, you’re our guest. I thought you might need a break from the kids.”

“I’ll help, pass me a knife. Back in my service industry days, I used to time myself to see how much fruit I could cut up in five minutes.”

“Really?” Kiryu asked, passing him and apron before putting one on himself. 

“Yep, I had a lot of depressing hobbies back then,” he said. “Look.”

 He held out his left hand, showing a long scar along the side of his index finger. Kiryu took his hand to have a closer look. He never would have done that before, but things had grown casual enough between them, and he’d offered, so it wasn’t a big deal, was it?  

 The scar was old, but it must have been  nasty at the time. It wasn’t the only scar on his hand. From what he’d learned about that time in Majima’s life, Kiryu knew he’d been though worse. 

“That must have hurt.” 

“It was bad enough without all the lemon juice that got in it,” Majima said. Kiryu let his hand go. 

“Did that end the hobby?”

“For a while, then I got bored and started up again.”

Kiryu dug in the fridge for ingredients. “Heh, that sounds like you.”

“I got damn good at it once I got used to the lack of depth perception.”

 Kiryu knew him well enough to know that any compliments he had to offer would be brushed off. He was impressed at Majima’s resilience and strength despite what had been done to him, but he couldn’t tell him that. 

 Or could he? Majima wasn’t entirely wrong when he’d said this felt like it was ‘it’. He had no plans to go back to Kamurocho. The last few times he’d been there he’d left wounded, angry, and sick of the whole place, even if he did miss some of the people. 

“I’d like it if you came to visit once in a while,” he said instead. His head was still halfway inside the fridge, and although he could say the words, he couldn’t look at Majima as he said it. He pulled out the large fish fillets he’d caught and prepared the day before and put them on the counter. Only then did he look up and meet Majima’s mischievous eye. 

“I don’t know, Kiryu-chan. I might need a bit more convincing.”

 There it was again. That intense, electric feeling he remembered. The spark he felt from staring Majima down in an alley, or in the ring with a crowd cheering them on. Here in the kitchen, he couldn’t ignore it, couldn’t escape it, couldn’t hide behind his fists. Today he had no choice but to meet that feeling head on. 

“I’ll keep that in mind,” Kiryu said, holding out a kitchen knife hilt-first.

 Majima looked between Kiryu and the knife, and slowly, deliberately, closed his fingers around it and took it out of Kiryu’s hand. He then pivoted on his heel towards the counter. 

“So, what’s gettin’ chopped?” Majima asked brightly, as if that intense moment hadn’t happened. As if Kiryu wasn’t standing there holding his breath. 

 Kiryu blinked, then put down a cutting board and three onions. “These, please. Thinly sliced if you can. I’ll take care of the fish.”

 Majima hadn’t lied. He was as efficient with a kitchen knife as he was with a dagger, and he made a show of flipping it around between vegetables with practiced ease. As he worked, he ranted about how much fruit was wasted at cabaret clubs, voicing his distain for the rich men who would throw down their money for a platter then only eat two bites. He also showed Kiryu how to easily peel garlic by crushing the cloves with the side of a knife. 

“You never said how long you were saying,” Kiryu said as he rinsed rice at the sink. 

“Don’t know yet. I said I needed a vacation, and nobody was stupid enough to tell me no,” Majima said. “Probably till ya get sick of me and send me packin’. I give it a week.”

He said it with a smile, but Kiryu believed every word of it. “Is that a challenge?” he asked. 

“Hah! Too early to tell. What happens after dinner? More baseball?”

“Usually the kids do their homework. Some of them have been trying to write their own manga, so you might get shown some art.”

“How long does it take before they start drawing pictures of their favourite new houseguest?”

 Kiryu tried to hold back a smile. Majima of course, missed nothing. 

“What?” 

“Haruka drew a picture of you once, years ago,” Kiryu said, “your hands were knives and you were wearing a pirate hat.”

“Tell me ya kept it,” Majima said. 

“No, it’s long gone. It might embarrass her to bring it up. She was only nine and still dealing with being kidnapped.”

“By a big scary pirate,” Majima agreed. “How much do they know about yer old line of work?”

“After last year I couldn’t hide it from them, but I keep things vague. I don’t want them thinking it’s a good idea to follow in my footsteps.”

“Good to know.”

 Dinner went smoothly. The kids asked a couple of questions, then Majima mentioned something about manga and they all had so much to say that most of the meal went by before they thought of another topic. 

 After dinner, Haruka consulted the chart on the wall to see who’s turn it was to wash the dishes. 

“If I knew I didn’t have to clean up I woulda made a bigger mess,” Majima teased, making the kids laugh as they all stood up and helped each other clear the plates. Kiryu ensured the kids all knew what they had to do, and where he’d be if they needed help. 

“Come on, there’s still some sunset left,” Kiryu said, heading for the door. Majima followed, crossing the quiet street and onto the sand. 

“In the summer the kids do their work before dinner, and play when it’s cooler ” Kiryu said. 

 Majima lit a cigarette and passed him his pack and lighter. The sun had just disappeared over the horizon, and the distant clouds were a a deep pink and orange. There was no wind, and the light over the calm water was beautiful. Kiryu never tired of the sight. Majima walked up close to the edge of the water. 

“It’s cleaner and more secluded than I imagined. I was picturing a shack and a packed beach,” he said, looking out at the fishing boats heading back in for the night. 

“So was I before I came here,” Kiryu said. A loud boat zoomed by in the distance. “I’ve always wanted to rent a speedboat. They do that down at the harbour.”  

“Why haven’t ya?”

 The answer to that question was money. Most of Kiryu’s pay these days went towards keeping the kids clothed and fed. Akiyama made a donation before he’d left. Enough that he didn’t have to worry as much. He might have refused, but the kids had all gone through growth spurts. He wouldn’t touch that money himself, but it meant he could use more of his own pay on himself for a change. 

“I never got around to it, but I’d like to do it soon. It’s not something I can do with nine kids with me, but it always seemed like kind of a waste to do it alone.”

“You’re more talkative out here,” Majima said after a moment, still looking out at the sea. 

“I guess,” Kiryu said. 

“I like it.” 

“It’s easier to talk more around people I trust,” Kiryu admitted. There was no sense in lying about that. They’d been through too much, and saw each other too infrequently. Majima always zeroed in on any lies he told anyway. And of course he trusted Majima, he wouldn’t have let him near the kids if he didn’t. Kiryu snuck a look and found Majima smirking at him. 

“You’re thinkin’ so hard I’m shocked I can’t hear it.”

“What?” Kiryu asked, shaken out of his thoughts. 

 Majima just laughed. Not a mean spirited laugh either. “What happens tomorrow?” 

“I usually get up at six and help the kids get ready for school. They’re old enough to dress themselves, so I’m mostly just making breakfast and making sure they have their stuff together,”

“Then the kids all leave by eight-thirty,” Kiryu continued, “It’ll be sunny tomorrow, so it might be good to spend some time on the beach. We can eat lunch here or go into town. After the kids get home it’ll be a repeat of tonight. If that’s okay with you.”

“I can handle that,” Majima said, still looking amused. Kiryu wasn’t sure why. 

 Majima took a few steps backwards, away from the water, and sat down. He dug his heels into the sand and took a deep breath.

“It’s a great little beach. D’ya ever make campfires?”

“Yeah,” Kiryu replied, sitting down next to him. He pointed to a rocky spot up on the west end of the beach. “Once in a while in the summer. We’ll have one before you go if you want.” 

“Sure, yeah,” Majima said with a smile. “And before I go, the two of us are gonna rent that speedboat.” 

“I’d like that.”

“Ya might not when ya see how fast I wanna drive it,” Majima said. 

 Kiryu chuckled, “I can only afford to rent a boat, I can’t afford to have to buy one if somebody decides to drive it into the side of a building.”

 Majima laughed. “Fine, I’ll let ya drive me around.”

 Kiryu snuck a look. “I wasn’t sure if you’d actually make the trip out here.”

 Majima looked at him like he’d said the stupidest thing in the world. “Why wouldn’t I?”

“I don’t know,” Kiryu said, looking away. The silence stretched, but it wasn’t uncomfortable. “Want a beer?  I should check on the kids.”

“Sure.”

 Kiryu stood up to go see what they were up to. Even across the street he could tell that the kids were unusually quiet. 

 As he suspected, it was Haruka’s doing. She was walking around supervising the way he usually did. The younger kids were already getting ready for bed, while the older kids were finishing their projects. 

“I’ve got it covered. Don’t worry,” Haruka said, standing proud. 

 Kiryu put a hand on her shoulder. “Make sure you get a break.”

“I’m okay, Uncle Kaz. My presentation was today, remember, so I didn’t have much homework. I’ll make sure everyone gets to bed when they’re done. You need a break too.”

“Thank you,” Kiryu said, touching her shoulder. He went to the kitchen and grabbed two of the beers he’d bought specifically for this visit, opened the bottles, and headed back across the street. 

 There was still enough light to see, although it was fading. Majima was standing at the water’s edge again. He looked back as Kiryu got close and took the beer, looking strangely pleased with himself. 

 They sat back down in the same spot as before and hit their bottles together before they drank. Majima leaned back on his hands, looking straight up. 

“Not even fully dark and look at all the stars,” Majima said, “Ya can’t get that in the city.”

“Give it an hour, it gets brighter. Look at the moon over there,” Kiryu said, pointing over his shoulder.

 They drank in silence for a minute before Majima took a deep breath. “I’m gettin’ real tired of it all, Kiryu-chan. For a while I thought I was just bored, but that ain’t it.”  

“I understand.”

“Yeah? Thought you’d be shocked.”

“No. I could see it in your eyes. Eye.” Kiryu said, quickly correcting himself. 

“This side’s been tired for a lot longer,” Majima said, touching his eyepatch. 

“What are you going to do?” Kiryu asked. 

“No clue. A lotta changes need makin’ before the clan is standing on two feet again, and I won’t leave Daigo or my bro, but… I already feel like something bad’s comin’,” he said, shaking his head, “I’m not a fan of that feeling.”

 Kiryu wasn’t sure how to help. He couldn’t go back, he wouldn’t do that to Haruka and the kids again, but he didn’t like doing nothing. “I can’t help you much, but if being here takes your mind off it for a while, stay as long as you’d like.”

 Majima nodded. “Careful. Talkin’ like that might make me overstay my welcome.”

 Kiryu looked back up. There were no clouds overhead and the stars looked especially bright tonight. “We never had a lot of peaceful times, did we?”

“Ya sound nostalgic. I ain’t too tired to fight if that’s what ya want.”

“No. Not the way we used to fight, anyway. The kids don’t need to see that.”

“I’m jokin’. We could use some peace… for now,” he said, nudging Kiryu with his shoulder, drawing a smile from him. 

 They stayed out till they finished their beers. Kiryu always enjoyed sitting out on the beach like this. He was surprised Majima didn’t look bored, he wasn’t polite enough to keep that to himself.  

 When they returned to the house, they found Haruka walking past with damp hair from her bath. “Goodnight, Uncle Kaz, goodnight Majima-san,” she said with a yawn, then disappeared into the girls’ room. There was the murmur of low voices, but all the kids were in bed. Kiryu looked in on them one last time, and ensured all the outside doors were locked before heading for the bathroom. 

 He returned to his room after having changed into a tee shirt and sweatpants. He set out their futons at opposite ends of the room as Majima sat on the floor digging through his bag. At first glance it looked like he’d taken out a pair of black leather pants, but they turned out to be satin pyjama bottoms. 

“Like ‘em?” Majima asked when he caught Kiryu looking. 

“I thought you were going to sleep in leather. I was going to ask if you wanted to borrow something,” Kiryu said. The kids wouldn’t hear them unless he shouted, but he still kept his voice down. Majima did the same. 

“Shit, leather pants in this heat? I didn’t even bring them. It’s all old man shirts in here. Figured I’d try to blend in.”

 He held up a handful of brightly patterned shirts, then straightened them out and placed them back into the bag. Kiryu smiled at the idea of Majima blending in anywhere.  

 Majima left for the bathroom as Kiryu finished preparing the futons. It felt odd having someone in his room, much less Majima, but the whole day had gone smoother than he’d expected. 

 When he returned, Majima had changed pants. He removed his shirt and sat back down on his futon, placing the clothes he’d been wearing on top of his bag. Kiryu waited till he was finished, then hit the light switch after Majima nodded his approval. Being an inside room, it was pitch black at first. 

“Whoa,” Majima’s said in the darkness, “you’re gone.”

“I won’t step on you,” Kiryu said as he walked across the room.  

“And I won’t grab yer ankle as ya go by,” Majima replied. 

 Kiryu chuckled and settled down on his side of the room. He heard Majima rustling. 

“I don’t like sleepin’ with the patch on. No gawkin’ at me if ya wake up first,” Majima said. 

“Okay,” Kiryu replied. “No surprise fights.”

 Majima snorted a laugh, “Deal. How ‘bout… no talkin’ about Tojo shit.” 

“No problem. No… no secrets.”

 There was a long pause. Enough time had gone by that Kiryu’s eyes had adjusted a little to the dark. He looked over at the shape on the other side of the room. 

“Ya sure?” Majima finally asked. 

“I think so.”

“If that’s what ya want, then okay. No secrets.”

 Kiryu barely knew why he’d said that, but it was too late to take it back now. He knew what he wanted it to mean, but didn’t dare voice the thought. He could barely think about it without feeling like he was making a mistake. 

“I got a confession then,” Majima said. 

“Okay,” Kiryu said, his mind racing. If it wasn’t Tojo related, what would it be? He asked himself what he wanted it to be. Sometimes he could swear they were on the same page, but Kiryu needed to be absolutely sure before he made a fool of himself. It was too big of a risk. Majima never balked at risk. It was one of the things he admired about him. Now he was confessing?

“I pissed in the ocean,” Majima said. 

 Kiryu blinked into the darkness, his train of thought derailed so sharply he felt like he’d been punched. Then he laughed. An open-mouthed, full body laugh. Majima laughed with him. He knew he should try to be quiet, that if he were any louder the kids might hear. He had to clap a hand over his mouth to shut himself up.

“I don’t think I’ve ever heard ya laugh that much,” Majima said, sounding proud. 

 “I can’t remember the last time I did,” Kiryu replied. 

 They fell into silence, but the air was charged. It always felt this way when Majima was around. Was it the same for everyone, or just Kiryu who felt that   magnetic pull? He’d rarely been alone with Majima this long. Tomorrow would be longer. How would he ever fall asleep?  

It took a while, but in less time than he expected, his eyes grew heavy. Before he fell asleep he thought he heard Majima take several measured breaths, almost like he too was trying to calm his nerves. 

Notes:

The next chapters won’t be quite as long. I debated chopping this in half but decided against it. Thanks for reading!

Chapter 5: Tuesday Morning

 Kiryu awoke ten minutes before his alarm. He was nearly out of the room without bothering the sleeping figure on the other side, when Majima suddenly bolted upright, looking around frantically as Kiryu reached the door. Majima clapped a hand over his left eye socket before Kiryu could see, looking mildly annoyed. 

“I wasn’t looking. I didn’t mean to wake you up.”

“It’s fine. Forgot where I was,” Majima muttered. 

“Sleep as long as you like. I’ll try to keep the kids quiet but with nine of them”-

“Got it,” Majima said, falling backwards onto his futon, his elbow covering the top half of his face. 

 The kids did their best, whispering harshly around the table in a way that was probably louder than if they were just talking. Kiryu thanked Haruka for the night before, and she said she would be happy to do the same as long as Majima stayed. 

 Kiryu was grateful, but didn’t let her make any promises. He waved goodbye to each child as they left, pleased with how accommodating they were trying to be. 

 He sat down on the outside step before remembering his cigarettes were still in his room. The door was open, and he was about to get up when Majima came around the corner. 

“Mornin’ Kiryu-chan!” Majima yelled. He was dressed in jeans again, with an orange linen shirt that was sheer enough that his tattoos were slightly visible. If he had it buttoned it would cover his chest, but he wore it open. 

“How’d you sleep?”

“Not bad,” Majima said, stretching his shoulders. “It’s a lot quieter here than back at my place.”

 Kiryu stood up. “Come on. I saved us some breakfast.”

 Kiryu talked about the kids while they ate, and told the story of the wrestling match they’d put on last year. 

“Pro wrestling? With costumes, or did ya wear yer suit?”

“No, just shorts and a mask,” Kiryu said. He wondered if it was a mistake to bring this up. 

“D’ya wear that outfit a lot, or just on special occasions?” Majima asked. 

“I still have it, but I only wore it once. It was silly, I guess, but the kids had fun.”

“Fightin’ in a mask ain’t that silly, is it?” Majima asked, a twinkle in his eye. 

 Kiryu remembered his matches with Hannya Man. The disturbing way he moved, the near complete silence, the way Majima had never acknowledged that it was actually him under there despite having the same taste in shoes and eyepatches. 

“Depends on the mask,” Kiryu replied, “and who’s wearing it.”

Majima gave him a knowing smile. “Exactly. When do I get to see it?”

 Kiryu considered. He knew what Majima was getting at, and he had to admit he liked the idea. He’d just have to set a very strict set of rules. “I don’t know. I’d need someone to wrestle against.”

“So ya don’t wear it to do chores around the house?” Majima said, clearly enjoying this topic. 

“No.”

“Would ya? If you lose?”

Uh oh. Kiryu frowned. “What do you mean?”

“I mean, let’s say we put on a nice little wrestling match before I go, really show the kids how it’s done. And if ya lose, the next day ya wear yer wrestling getup to do laundry and shit.”

 Majima was grinning now, and Kiryu had to smile back. “What happens if I win? You’re my guest, I won’t make you do laundry.”

“What d’ya want me to do, Kiryu-chan?” Majima asked, putting his elbows on the table. 

 Kiryu looked away. What exactly did Majima want him to say?  If he said the wrong thing now he might be able to pass it off as a joke. Then again, Majima had always been able to tell when he was lying. 

“A drink,” Kiryu said finally. 

 Majima scoffed. “That’s it?”

“There’s a bar downtown called Aqua Sky. I’d want a whiskey that’s at least twelve years old.”

 Majima nodded, smile returning to his face. He leaned back. “Ya want me to getcha drunk? I can do that.”

“One drink is fine.”

“Nah, I’ll get ya good ‘n drunk off the good stuff,” Majima said firmly. “Ya could have asked for a lot more. You know that, right?”

Kiryu had to look away again, struggling for the right words. When he looked back, Majima was looking at him with a quizzical expression, waiting for his response. “I’m not always good at asking for what I want,” Kiryu admitted. 

 Majima’s lips quirked into a smile that didn’t quite reach his eye. “I know.”

 Kiryu couldn’t say more, he definitely couldn’t ask for more, but it didn’t mean he didn’t want… It felt stupid to even think about. He stood up and took their dishes to the kitchen to wash. He was almost done when a chin rested on top of his shoulder. 

“Ya missed a spot,” Majima said, his voice loud in Kiryu’s ear. He only stayed there for a moment, then he left the kitchen, leaving Kiryu’s thoughts to spiral again. It was enough to make him linger in the kitchen longer than he’d planned. Did that mean something, or was it just Majima being Majima? He was the most confusing man he’d ever met. What was he supposed to do now?

 Kiryu looked back into the dining room and found it empty. Majima was back in his room, sitting on the futon that hadn’t been put away, looking through his bag again. It was best to ignore what had just happened, he told himself. 

 Kiryu stood in the middle of the room. “I don’t know if you like swimming. We could fish, or I have more beer if you just want to sit out and drink on the beach. Or I could show you around town. There are a lot of shops and restaurants, nothing fancy like Tokyo, but there are things to do,” Kiryu said. Majima just nodded at him so he continued. “I should introduce you to the Ryudo family, the ones who’ve helped me out over the past couple of years. But uh, if you want to stay away from work talk today that’s fine.”

 Majima looked amused, which made Kiryu feel self-conscious. Had he come across too anxious? Majima respected strength, not whatever that speech was. Why did he keep babbling like an idiot? The more he spoke the more he regretted it. 

“Yer overthinking this,” Majima said, not unkindly, “let’s go to the beach.”

“Okay.”

 They got ready separately. Kiryu took a large blanket, a small battery-powered radio, two beach towels and a second-hand beach umbrella. It looked shabby, and Kiryu rolled his eyes at himself for thinking that mattered. He put a couple of water bottles, his smokes, and his sunscreen in a bag with the towels. 

 Fifteen minutes later they were sitting on the large blanket under the umbrella. Majima brought out two bottles of sunscreen. 

“I have some too.”

“This one’s supposed to be good for tattoos,” Majima said, handing over the fancier of the bottles. 

 Kiryu read the label. “It looks expensive.”

“It is, so it better fuckin’ work.”

 Majima was back in his sunglasses, although he had an eyepatch tied around his wrist like one of the girls’ hair ties. He still wore his orange shirt, with shiny pink swim shorts that were much shorter than the black trunks Kiryu wore. Majima shrugged off his shirt and turned to the side. 

“Get my back, will ya?”  

 Kiryu looked at the sunscreen again, squeezing some into his hand. There was nothing wrong with this, he told himself. He did this for the kids all the time. “She don’t bite,” Majima added, as if he could feel Kiryu staring into the eyes of the Hannya. 

“Yes she does,” Kiryu said, letting his hands rub circles overtop of the fierce yellow eyes on Majima’s back. Majima chuckled at that, and Kiryu could feel the vibrations through his strong back muscles. 

 Majima’s shoulders relaxed as Kiryu’s continued along his spine. He let himself admire the artistry of the tattoo, his hands half-consciously following the flow of the design. Majima’s skin was soft under his hands, despite the ink that covered it. “It really is impressive,” he said, squeezing a little more of the sunscreen into his hands. 

“The ink or the muscles?” Majima asked, flexing his arms. Kiryu stayed quiet, and took the opportunity to move his hand up Majima’s shoulder blades and along the backs of his arms, rubbing in more sunscreen even though he probably could have reached that part himself. “If ya say nothing I’m gonna assume ya mean both.”

 Kiryu opened his mouth, then paused. He hadn’t meant both, but Majima was always in impressive physical shape, that was just a fact. Any other day he would have told him to shut up. Today Kiryu stayed silent, making sure the sunscreen was rubbed in all the way. No secrets, he told himself, feeling braver than he would have if Majima were facing him. 

 When it was clear that Kiryu wasn’t going to answer, Majima’s head turned to the side. He might have been able to catch Majima’s eye through the side of his sunglasses, but he busied himself with putting the lid back on the sunscreen bottle. 

“You’re up, Kiryu-chan,” he said, “turn around.”

“You don’t have to use your expensive stuff on me. I have a spray I can get on the parts of my back I can’t reach.”

“Just turn around,” Majima said, with exaggerated exasperation. Kiryu did as instructed, removing his shirt and turning to the right. 

 He felt Majima grow closer, and he tried not to tense up. Kiryu could hear him rubbing his hands together, before he felt Majima’s warm hands on his shoulder blades. Kiryu shut his eyes. It had been years since anyone had touched his back. 

“Yer dragon’s fading a bit, but not as much as I expected for a beach bum like you,” Majima said, his fingers following the shape of the dragon in a firm but gentle way that made him lean back reflexively. 

“Heh, I haven’t looked back there in a while,” Kiryu said. 

“It still kicks ass. Nobody out there’s got a better dragon.” 

“Thanks.”

 He liked hearing that. Kiryu wasn’t proud of all things he did as a yakuza, but he would always be proud of the dragon. Majima’s hands ran up and down his spine, then kneaded into the stiff muscles of his upper back. It didn’t feel like that was related to sunscreen at all, but it felt too good to put a stop to it. This continued for a couple of minutes before Majima spoke up again. 

“So, let’s say one of yer neighbours walks up and sees some guy’s hands on yer back. Would that be a problem?”

 Kiryu straightened up and looked towards the road. Majima’s hands didn’t stop, but moved to his shoulders which had tensed. He couldn’t see the street because they were hidden by the umbrella. That helped Kiryu relax a little. It wasn’t like anyone could see them, and it wasn’t like they were doing anything wrong. 

“My neighbours are good people, who wouldn’t gossip if they got the wrong idea…” Kiryu said, trailing off. “But if they weren’t good people, it could potentially jeopardize my job here, yeah.”

“Ah.”

 Why did he ask that? Was he joking? If so, he wouldn’t still be touching his back, would he?  

“Easy, Kiryu-chan,” Majima said, “yer twice as tense as when I started.”

“Sorry.”

“Say ‘Ahh’,” Majima said. 

 That was more confusing than anything he’d said. “What?”

“Do it,” Majima said, lightly and rhythmically chopping his back with the sides of his fists. 

 Kiryu let out a long ahh sound, the noise sounding ridiculous because of the drum solo happening on his back. He shook his head and smiled. “I think the sunscreen is rubbed in by now, thanks.”

“Right,” Majima replied, moving away and using the less expensive sunscreen to slather the rest of his own body after he took care of the inked part of his chest. 

 Kiryu did the same with his own sunscreen. He felt like he’d done something wrong. He’d been honest, he thought. Ever since he’d arrived, Kiryu couldn’t stop his thoughts from spiralling out of control. He’d have to figure out how to deal with that. 

 After they were both finished and reclining under the shade of the umbrella, the wind picked up. Majima, resting back on his elbows, yawned. He kicked his leg against Kiryu’s. “Look at my pale-ass legs compared to yours, Kiryu-chan. I’ve been wearin’ suits too long.”

 Kiryu hesitated a moment before answering. “I think the last time I saw your legs they were in fishnets, kicking me in the face.”

 Majima let his head fall backwards and laughed his high pitched, wild laugh. “I didn’t bring those with me. Think of the tan lines!” 

“That’s the only reason?” Kiryu joked. 

“Ehh? Should I have brought them?” Majima asked, kicking Kiryu’s leg again. 

“No,” Kiryu replied, kicking back, harder than he intended. 

“Ow!” Majima said with a laugh. “Yer loss.”

“We have enough food here, but if you want we could go into town for lunch. There’s a little diner that makes a lot of local favourites,” Kiryu said, not knowing what else to say. 

“Relax. I ain’t got the patience for other people today. Let’s go do that tomorrow, and get the introductions to the family out of the way. I know they’ll have questions, and I don’t wanna deal with that yet.” 

 That answer surprised Kiryu. He thought Majima would want to do more than just sit on the beach. When Kiryu didn’t answer right away Majima lifted his leg, threatening to kick him again. 

“Stop that, we agreed to no fighting,” Kiryu said. 

“No surprise fighting. And anyway, this ain’t fightin’!” Majima said, letting his leg fall back down, “This is me trying to get ya to relax.”

“The threat of your attacks have never felt relaxing.”

“That’s different and ya damn well know it. I’m goin’ swimming,” Majima huffed, standing up. He turned away and put his eyepatch on, then stalked off towards the water, leaving Kiryu wondering what he’d said wrong by asking not to be kicked. 

 He watched as Majima stomped into the surf and kept going until he was up to his waist, then he sat down so only his head was out of the water. He was far enough away that Kiryu couldn’t quite tell if he was being glared at, given the sunglasses. Should he apologize? He didn’t know the rules of interacting with Majima at the best of times. Now it was worse. 

 No surprise fighting. No Tojo talk. What was left? Majima had always shut down any questions about his past. After Saejima explained the exact circumstances of that hit they’d agreed to twenty-five years ago, Kiryu could understand why. Any questions about the future involved the clan. Kiryu was always happy to talk about the kids, but he didn’t think that would be interesting to Majima. 

 Overthinking like this was pointless and exhausting. Kiryu wasn’t trusting his own instincts, and maybe that’s was the problem. Whatever this was, he was wasting time by worrying. No secrets, he’d said.

 He stood up and walked up to the water. He didn’t know what he was going to say, but he went anyway. Majima was still just a face floating in the sea. 

 Kiryu approached and sank down into the water next to him. “If you were anybody else I’d dunk your head.”

 Majima frowned. “Why ‘m I special?”

 Kiryu motioned to his own left eye. “I figured you wouldn’t want your face wet.”

“Get me a cheap pair of goggles. Then ya can drown me all ya want.”

 It sounded like he was joking but Kiryu knew Majima well enough to know that he was annoyed. 

“I don’t want to drown you. Is this really because I wouldn’t let you kick me?”

 Majima shook his head. “Ya know, it used to be a lot more fun to make you uncomfortable.”

 Kiryu leaned back, dipping his hair in the cold water, then running his hand through it. “I’m not going to apologize for that.”

 Majima lifted the sunglasses up on top of his head and looked Kiryu in the eye. “I didn’t come all this way just to piss ya off, ya know.”

“I know.”

“Then relax!” Majima looked for a second like he was going to splash him, but changed his mind.

 Kiryu nodded. No secrets, he reminded himself again. “I’m trying. I’m not sure what you want from me.”

 Majima gave him a hard look, and Kiryu stared back, determination outweighing his anxiety. He was too old to be so  stressed about this. 

“I didn’t think I was being subtle,” Majima said, looking so intently at him that despite Kiryu’s efforts, it made him look away. A large boat zoomed by in the distance. 

 He didn’t expect to have this conversation in the ocean. Didn’t ever expect to have it at all, but here it was. That thing that hung over both their heads. The one he never talked about, and Majima always teased him about. It was easier to be brave about any other aspect of his life. He took a breath. 

“What I don’t know,” Kiryu started, fighting the urge to close his eyes, “…what I never know, is how much of this is just a joke to you.”

 The wind rustled the grass on the shore, birds called in the distance, but Majima was silent. 

 Kiryu looked out at the ocean. The water was fairly calm but the wake from the passing boat was headed their way. “You’re going to get hit in the head with a wave if you don’t sit up a little,” he warned Majima, who was facing the shore. Majima turned and rose up enough that the first wave hit his neck instead of his face.

 Kiryu, feeling more and more awkward, took a deep breath and sank under the water, letting the waves pass over. It helped him feel calm. Kiryu cared about this strange, violent man, he admitted. He cared about him a lot. If it turned out the something he felt wasn’t the same as what Majima felt, than he’d just have to trust Majima’s discretion, daunting as that felt. 

 Before he could rise to the surface, Majima grabbed his upper arm and hauled him up.

“The hell are ya doing?” Majima snapped,  “Tryin’ to drown yourself?”

 Kiryu combed his hair back out of his eyes. Majima still held his arm. “I can hold my breath a lot longer than that. I was thinking.”

“Think where there’s air,” Majima barked in his face. 

 Kiryu smiled. “Fine. Do you want to go back?”

“Yeah,” Majima said. He stood up, pulling  Kiryu up with him like he wanted to make sure he wasn’t about to go under again. Only then did he let go and began to wade back towards their umbrella. 

 Kiryu appreciated the concern, even if it was completely unfounded. He watched Majima, who was two steps ahead. He still looked a little too thin, but he was all muscle, lean and powerful. The edge of the tattoos on his thighs peaked out from underneath his short swim trunks. Kiryu let himself appreciate the smooth and agile way he moved through the water.

 Maybe he should tell him that, Kiryu thought. Especially because Majima kept saying that this might be the last time they see each other. He knew he didn’t want that, and Majima had said he needed convincing. Is that the sort of thing he meant?

 Majima picked up the towels and threw one to Kiryu. They dried off silently, and Kiryu found that once he’d allowed himself to really look at Majima, he didn’t want to stop. He tried to sneak glances, but was caught every time with that quizzical look. 

 Majima sat down on the blanket again, and Kiryu followed. He dried his hair, then his arms, trying to focus on that instead of the stress he was feeling. 

 Beside him, Majima huffed out a sigh. “It’s not a joke. I know I joke about it, but it’s not a joke.”

 Kiryu waited, but that was all he had to say. “It’s not a joke to me either.”

 Majima was staring at him. Kiryu turned and looked back. Majima’s smile widened into the intimidating grin he was used to. “Ya sure?”

 He was daring him to look away, Kiryu realized. Knowing that was a strange relief. With Majima, he always felt like he was playing a game he could never win because he didn’t know the rules. But now he was finally starting to understand. They stared each other down till Kiryu had a thought that made him smile. “I don’t let just anybody fall asleep on my shoulder.”

“Hah!” Majima exclaimed. “That’s the biggest, fattest lie. You’d lend that shoulder to yer worst fuckin’ enemy,” he pointed to the pink scar on Kiryu’s abdomen from where he’d been stabbed last year, “ya got the scars to prove it.”

 He had a point. “Maybe, but not for two and a half hours. My arm fell asleep.”

“Your arm’s been through worse,” Majima said, tracing his thumb over a thin, faded scar on Kiryu’s arm. A slash from a dagger. 

 Kiryu had to laugh, “That one’s from you!”

“Oh, we’re comparin’ scars now? Cuz this could take a while,” Majima said, with a more genuine smile. He twisted to show a patch of skin on his elbow that was lighter than his skin tone. “That’s from you. Elbow scraped hard enough against a wall that it’s never looked the same. Ruined my authentic cop uniform too, and those ain’t easy to get.”

 Kiryu bent his leg and pointed to a mark on his shin. “I have one of those, also from you.”

 Majima hesitated, then touched a scar on his abdomen, it was faded, but it matched Kiryu’s stab wound. “That one was for you.”

 Kiryu also hesitated, then reached out and pointed at the small, faded bullet wound on the other side of Majima’s torso. “That one too?”

 Majima leaned forward and pointed out an even smaller scar on his back, underneath one of the red Sakura flowers. “That went all the way through,” he said. Kiryu reached out and touched the exit wound, feeling his stomach clench in shame at the memory. “Falling ass-backwards into salt water was the icing on that shit cake.”

 Kiryu took his hand away. “I remember. I should have helped you that day. It’s… a big regret of mine.”

 Majima looked surprised, then shrugged and looked away. “I brought ya out there for a fight. I might’ve done the same.”

“No, I don’t think you would have. I know it might not be worth much after all these years, but I’m sorry.”

 Majima’s eyebrow raised. He nodded, then laid back on the blanket. He had a lot more scars than Kiryu. A landscape of the hard life he’d led.  

“I never should have asked”- Kiryu began. 

“Enough pity. I don’t want that.”

 Kiryu nodded. “It’s not pity,” he said, but didn’t press the issue. Kiryu instead asked the question he should have asked years ago. “What do you want?”

“In general or from you?” Majima asked, still lying back. He stretched his arms and rested his hands behind his head. 

 Kiryu could only shrug. That was about as honest as he could handle at the moment.

“This is good,” Majima said after a long pause. “I want this. At least fifteen more minutes of this.”

 Kiryu smiled and turned the radio on. An old rock song played through the small speakers. After that he laid down, not close enough to be touching shoulders, but he felt the proximity. “Yeah,” Kiryu agreed, closing his eyes, “yeah, this is good.”

The sound of the waves and the feel of the warm wind never got old. Kiryu never imagined he’d ever live in a place like this, and he never wanted to take it for granted. He also never imagined he’d feel so peaceful lying next to Majima Goro. His life had veered off in so many different directions that he shouldn’t ever be surprised by a new turn, but this felt like… no. He wasn’t going to overthink, he was just going to enjoy the moment while he could. 

 The umbrella was big enough that it had kept them both in the shade, but eventually the sun was overhead enough that Kiryu’s feet started to feel hot from the direct sun. Reluctantly, he sat up. 

“Don’t let me fall asleep, I burn too easy,” Majima said lazily, his eye closed.

 Kiryu smiled down at him, “Do you want to borrow a shoulder?”

 Majima sat up and stretched. “Don’t make that offer if ya don’t mean it, Kiryu-chan,” he said, in his loud, teasing way. 

“Okay.” Kiryu said seriously. “Are you hungry?  We still have a lot of leftovers from the fish curry yesterday. We’re going to have that for dinner, so I could make something else now.

“Nah, that sounds like more work. Leftovers are good enough for me.” Majima closed the umbrella and gathered their things.

Kiryu moved downwind to shake off the blanket. “You’ve adjusted to island life already,” he said as Majima yawned. 

“Yep, I fit right in,” Majima replied as he put his shirt back on. He threw Kiryu’s shirt over to him. 

 They returned to the house. Kiryu took a quick shower, then let Majima do the same while he reheated their lunch. It felt more comfortable, but that electric feeling was stronger. Kiryu couldn’t help smiling as he got everything ready.  

 Majima appeared at the kitchen door, looking more alert, wearing a different, longer pair of shorts, and that orange shirt he had on earlier. 

 The afternoon passed in this new, strangely comfortable way. After they ate, Kiryu turned on the TV. They watched a baseball game till the kids got home, talking idly about sports. At one point Majima kicked at him again, and left their legs touching. Neither of them acknowledged it, but Kiryu didn’t remember who won the game.  

Chapter 6: Tuesday Night

 It had been a nice, easygoing evening, but as Kiryu set out the futons for the night, his nerves crept back in. Something fundamental had changed, and he wasn’t sure what to do about it yet.

 As promised, Majima continued to be a perfect houseguest. Yesterday, half the kids were nervous around him. Today they were his biggest fans. He was funny, and tough, and he engaged with them as if it were second nature. Kiryu still couldn’t tell if any of it was an act, but it looked like he was enjoying himself. He found he was able to let that worry go, at least. 

 After dinner, Kiryu made sure Haruka had enough time to herself and helped the kids with their homework. Majima also helped. He was a little abrasive, maybe, but none of the kids seemed to mind.

 When they were all in their rooms for the night, Majima and Kiryu had a cigarette at the table outside, then Majima left for the bathroom. 

 After Kiryu brushed his teeth, he returned to Majima sitting on his side of the room, yawning, wearing those slippery looking pyjama pants he’d worn the night before. 

“Should I turn out the light?” Kiryu asked.

“Sure.”

 Kiryu clicked the switch, slowly made his way through the dark, and laid down on his futon. “You’re good with the kids.” he told Majima.

“They’re fun. Loud and fun.”

“They like you, but let me know if it gets too much.”

“Nah, it’s fine. The only problem I’m havin’ is watchin’ my tongue. I think I’ll swear at ya all day tomorrow to get it out of my system.” 

“I can handle that.”

 Majima yawned loudly. “Why am I tired? I did fuck-all today.”

“The heat, swimming, and dealing with the kids takes energy, even on a lazy day.”

“I guess. Good day though.”

 Kiryu lay on his back with his eyes open, trying to quiet his mind. He knew what he wanted. Was it too much?  Kiryu knew there was still a chance that he was reading the situation wrong. That this unspoken thing that ‘wasn’t a joke’ meant something different to Majima than it did to him. 

I’m gonna make the most of this, he’d said. 

I didn’t think I was being subtle, he’d said. 

Don’t make the offer if you don’t mean it, he’d said.

 Kiryu took a deep, steadying breath and decided to trust his instincts.

“Majima?”

“Hmm?”

“Do you want to borrow a shoulder?”

 The silence was excruciating, then finally, Kiryu heard rustling. Looking over, there was enough movement in the darkness to tell that Majima was moving, no, crawling over to him. Kiryu felt a strong wave of apprehension. This was the most vicious man he knew, and he’d invited him to what, cuddle?

 Kiryu didn’t say any more, he just pulled back the cover, held his arm out straight, and waited until a surprisingly soft head of hair touched his left shoulder and settled into the crook of his arm. Kiryu stayed frozen for a second, feeling more than a little shocked that Majima had agreed to this, then Kiryu tentatively wrapped his arms around him. When he felt Majima’s arm around his waist he let out the breath he’d been holding. He was so relieved. Majima’s arm tightened, and Kiryu couldn’t help burying his face in Majima’s hair for a long moment before letting his head fall back on his pillow.

 Majima slung his leg over Kiryu’s and rested his head on his chest. Kiryu kept one hand on his back, and the other he couldn’t resist running through Majima’s silky hair. 

 They didn’t speak, not at first. Kiryu expected a joke, or a dig about how he was a wimp for asking for this, but all he heard was a deep, contented sound, and felt a hand slowly move over his abdomen. It felt right. This connection between them was real, and now it was something tangible. Something he could hold. 

“Yer heart’s hammering away in there.” Majima murmured, finally breaking the silence. 

“I know.”

 Majima’s hand found his. He took two of Kiryu’s fingers and pressed them against the side of his neck. Kiryu could feel Majima’s strong, fast pulse under his fingertips, just as fast his own. He didn’t have to second-guess what that meant.  He intertwined their fingers and rested them on his chest. 

 The many doubts he’d held onto for so long, about Majima and about himself, finally broke free. Revelation was too small a word. This unexpected tenderness opened up a floodgate of feelings he’d carefully locked away and ignored. 

 He couldn’t keep Majima here. He knew that. But he’d keep him as long as he could. He wanted more than just this kind of closeness. He wanted… anything he could get. 

“Going into town can wait another day, right?” Majima asked.

“Yeah. There’s no time frame on that.” Kiryu said, his hand moving in slow circles over Majima’s spine. 

 Majima squeezed the hand he still held. “Good. I need ya all to myself tomorrow.” His voice was deep, a command. 

“I… need that too.”

 Majima made that deep, contented noise again. The promise of tomorrow was enough to make Kiryu feel dizzy. Majima’s hand left his and ran over his abdomen again. It felt unfamiliar, but in a good way. It somehow made him feel more like himself. 

“You’ve never done this before, have ya?” Majima asked. He sounded content, but it raised Kiryu’s guard. 

“N-not with a man, no.” he responded. “Is that a problem?”

 Majima laughed under his breath. “Course not.”

“Have you?” Kiryu asked, although he was fairly sure of the answer. 

“Not this. Other stuff, yeah, but never this.”

 There had been so many moments, especially in that first year after he got out of prison, where Kiryu suspected Majima’s crazy antics meant something deeper.  He second-guessed himself too much to ever know for sure. It dawned on him that this might be why he’d always had so much trouble reading Majima. 

“Sorry it took me this long to figure it out.” Kiryu said. 

“I can think of at least thirty different ways ya can make it up to me.” was the response. He could feel Majima’s breath on his skin, giving him goosebumps.  

 Kiryu smiled. It was easier to be bold in the dark. “Pick one. We’ll do the rest tomorrow.”

 There was a pause, then Majima shifted up and onto his elbow, leaning over him. “Kiss me already.”

 Kiryu reached up for Majima’s face, touching his cheek to make sure he knew exactly where he was in the dark. Majima was just an outline, lit only slightly by the dim glow of Kiryu’s clock radio. He could feel the hard edge of his cheekbone, the stubble at his jaw, the slight indent on his cheek from the eyepatch strap he wasn’t wearing. He moved his hand to the back of Majima’s head and nudged him down, bringing their lips together. 

 There was only a second of stillness, before that electric pull he’d always felt surged to such an extreme level that Kiryu was dumbstruck. The second his mouth opened, Majima’s tongue swirled around his. Majima’s warm hand was on his bicep, keeping a tight hold on his arm. Rough, masculine, and so unlike anything he’d ever felt. 

 It felt right. More than that. This is what they were made for. Kiryu held Majima tighter as the kiss grew increasingly frantic, as if he’d disappear if Kiryu pulled away.

 Majima was fully on top of him now, an easy maneuver in those slippery pants he was wearing. Kiryu let his hands run over Majima’s back the way he had earlier at the beach, but with more care, more freedom. Majima’s bare chest pressed against his, and it was getting difficult to stay silent. His skin was so warm. Kiryu  pressed their foreheads together so he could catch his breath.

 It felt too good. He had never kissed anyone like this. He shouldn’t have started, he should have waited for tomorrow when they had the house to themselves, because now all he wanted was more. It wasn’t easy, but he resisted the urge to grind his hips against Majima’s. The last thing he wanted to do was stop, but it was better to do it now before things really got out of hand. 

“I can’t trust myself to be quiet enough for this.” he said reluctantly. 

 Majima kissed along his jaw and moved his face right next to Kiryu’s ear. “Ya sure? You’ve been in this room all by yer lonesome a long time, Kiryu-chan.” he murmured, “Don’t tell me ya never learned to be quiet.”

 He lightly bit down on Kiryu’s earlobe, then sucked it into his mouth. Kiryu drew in a breath and gripped Majima’s waist. “That’s different,” he said, “I didn’t have you here.”

“Whose fault is that?” Majima asked. His hand trailed down Kiryu’s side, stopping at the hem of his sweatpants. 

“It’s mine.” Kiryu said seriously. It was a sobering truth. Last year Majima had offered several times to come back here with him to help. He’d refused, both because he wanted the kids away from the whole disastrous situation, but also because he was stubborn and wanted to prove that he didn’t need help, that he could handle his own problems.

 In the end, it was the wrong call. The kids had to watch everything they had get taken away, most of them for the second time in their lives, and he lost a friend that he absolutely wouldn’t have lost if he’d had the backup Majima had offered. If he wasn’t so damn shortsighted. 

 The shift in mood was noticeable enough that Majima, still draped on top of him, stopped and slipped back to Kiryu’s side, resting his head back on Kiryu’s chest. Now that he knew for certain this wasn’t one-sided, Kiryu also understood that when he refused Majima’s help last year it probably meant more than he knew.

“Last year I… I was stupid. It would have really helped if you’d been here.”

“What’s done’s done.” Majima said, voice slightly muffled against his chest. 

 This wasn’t something he could fix. They’d both been through so much hell, but he didn’t want to let his regrets ruin the night. 

“Can.. you be quiet?” Kiryu offered. 

 Majima laughed, a low rumble against his skin. “I’ve been wantin’ this for a long time, Kiryu-chan. I can hold on for one more night.”

Relief coursed through Kiryu. He wasn’t expecting restraint. “Thank you.” 

“But you’re in trouble tomorrow. Ya know that, right?” Majima said, rubbing his satin-covered leg over Kiryu’s. “Deep fuckin’ trouble.”

 Kiryu let his hand run through Majima’s hair again. He liked the sound of that. “I can handle trouble.”

“Oh, I bet you can.” Majima said, holding him a little tighter. “Ya make a good pillow, Kiryu-chan.  A hot, buff pillow.”

“You have really soft hair.”

“S’about time somebody noticed. I condition the hell out of it.” Majima said as Kiryu’s hand felt along the top of his head. It felt like Majima was melting against his skin. “That feels good.” 

“Yeah.” Kiryu agreed. “Really good.” His thumb rubbed against the short, fuzzy hair at the base of Majima’s skull, then he let his hand massage through his scalp. 

 Majima let out another contented noise, and Kiryu wanted nothing else than to keep hearing that sound. He didn’t know exactly what Majima had in mind for tomorrow. He didn’t want to think about it too much. He’d kept himself mostly in control so far, but it wouldn’t take much. Majima was right there, warm and  comfortably sprawled overtop of him like they’d been doing this for years. Whatever tomorrow did or didn’t bring, he had this. And this was precious. 

 

Chapter 7: Wednesday Morning

 Kiryu woke with a start. He looked blearily around the room and was disappointed to find he was alone. Majima’s bag was still on the floor nearby. It was reassuring to know he hadn’t taken off overnight. While it was only fifteen minutes after he usually woke up, Kiryu scrambled to get dressed. Had he forgotten to set an alarm?

 In the kitchen, he found Majima and Haruka making breakfast together, which was a nice surprise. Haruka was already in her school uniform, and looked ready to go, and the kids were trickling in to the dining room, already dressed. 

 It was an easy morning for Kiryu. The kids were all chatty as usual, and made him smile by telling him their dreams from the night before, or what they were going to do in school that day. It felt like a usual morning, except Majima was there beside him, joking with the kids like they’d known each other forever. 

 Once the last of the kids were off, Majima gave him a sly look. “Alone at last, Kiryu-chan.”

“Fifteen minutes.” Kiryu said, looking at his watch. “If any of them forgot anything, they’ll be back.”

“Smart thinkin’.” Majima said. He was still giving him that look. Sly was too weak a word. He looked hungry. Kiryu had been on the receiving end of that look a hundred times. Now that he could confirm exactly what it meant, Kiryu couldn’t help but be shocked. He’d seen that look before he’d done his time in prison. If he’d only understood, things might have been different. 

 Then again, he’d also seen that look with a knife pressed against his throat. Maybe this was how it had to be to get to this point. Either way, he felt the full weight of it now. 

 Kiryu checked his watch again, annoyed that barely a minute had passed. They both stood just inside the closed door. “How did you sleep?”

“Woke up too early, but good. Hell of a thing waking up next to you. Was sure I  was dreamin’.” Majima said, looking him up and down, “Are we gonna stand here for the full fifteen?”

 Kiryu looked towards the kitchen, “I should get the dishes done. You can relax.”

“Nah. It’s faster if we both do it.”  

 He was right of course, and aside from standing much closer than anyone else would, Majima was all business until the task was finished. The proximity made Kiryu smile. Despite the nerves of anticipation, he felt surprisingly comfortable compared to the day before. He was no longer lost in these interactions. Majima hummed a song he didn’t recognize, but was otherwise silent as Kiryu handed him bowls to dry. 

“It’s weird to see you doing this.” Kiryu said when they were nearly finished.  

“What, ya think I don’t have dishes?” Majima asked, bumping the side of his hip against Kiryu’s. 

“It just feels like you’re above that sort of thing.”

“Yer makin’ me sound like a real jackass.” Majima said with a snort. “They don’t hire a butler when they make ya a patriarch. Once in a while I even sweep my own floor!”

 Kiryu chuckled. “Okay, fine.”

“But I get it. I couldn’t picture you doin’ all this domestic dad shit either, but you’re good at it, and it makes ya happy, don’t it?”

“I don’t like every chore, and I don’t talk to as many adults as I’d like, but yeah, I like it.” 

“Good.”

“It’s better with you here.” Kiryu added. He handed over the last dish and washed his hands. 

“Now you’re gettin’ sappy.” 

“Is that so bad?” Kiryu asked. He stole the cloth Majima was using and dried his hands. That familiar electricity crackled between them. 

 Majima looked like he was holding back a smile. “Yeah. Terrible.”

“I don’t believe you.”

 Majima put the last dish down and washed his own hands, crowding further into Kiryu’s space. He pulled the cloth back out of Kiryu’s grasp. “Yer doubtin’ me?  Yer not allowed to doubt me. I’m a patriarch!”

 Kiryu looked him up and down. Majima wore another bright floral shirt, blue today, and the longer shorts he was wearing yesterday. “Yeah? Well…” he had no witty reply. He hesitated a moment, then decided he was better off trusting his instincts. He grabbed Majima by the waist and kissed him. Majima’s threw his arms around Kiryu’s neck, stepping forward so they were pressed as close as possible. There was nothing keeping them apart now. Nothing to stop this. No one to get in their way or tell them they couldn’t.

 There had always been a voice in Kiryu’s head that told him certain thoughts he had were shameful and wrong and needed to be buried. For the first time, that voice was silenced. He was lost to the sensation of facial hair against his cheek and a hard chest against his own. 

 Kiryu, still following his impulses, backed Majima up against the kitchen counter. It felt like they were on the same wavelength, the way Majima without hesitation pulled himself up and onto the counter, thankfully far enough away from the clean dishes. His legs wrapped around Kiryu’s waist, as his tongue delved into Kiryu’s open mouth. Kiryu couldn’t help the noise that escaped him, and he rocked his hips forward. Majima threw his head back and let out a gleeful laugh as Kiryu turned his attention to his neck.  

“You feel it too, right? That fire?” Majima asked, sounding dazed as Kiryu’s mouth explored his throat. 

“I always pictured it as electricity.” Kiryu replied. Majima cackled triumphantly and squeezed his legs around him. Kiryu pulled him in for another kiss. 

 Kiryu expected the intensity, but he never imagined how much pure joy he could feel radiating from Majima, and how happy that made him. His kisses were needy and hot, and his legs had an iron grip around him. Kiryu touched his legs, enjoying the feel of the lean musculature under his fingers. He let his hands travel under the hem of Majima’s shorts up his thighs. 

 Meanwhile, Majima busied himself with Kiryu’s shirt buttons. As soon as they were all undone Majima leaned forward and licked a long line up Kiryu’s chest. The unexpected feeling made him gasp, and he had to bite his cheek to keep from letting out an undignified laugh. 

 Majima looked pleased at that reaction. “Better get me outta here before those dishes get smashed.”

“Good idea.” Kiryu agreed. Majima’s licked his lips and Kiryu zeroed in on that motion. He’d never appreciated Majima’s lips before. Majima noticed, because of course he did, and licked his lower lip again. 

“Yer move, Kiryu-chan. Ya got me stuck up here.” 

 Kiryu blinked, “Oh. Right.”

 Kiryu was still holding Majima’s thighs. He tightened his grip and picked him up, turned around, and set him down on the floor. Majima chuckled, “If you’re tryna show off, it’s workin’ for me.”

 Kiryu strode back to his room, where he’d conveniently forgotten to put away his futon. Majima pulled the door shut behind him, and before he could turn around, Kiryu was grabbed from behind. 

 Majima’s chin pressed into the top of his shoulder. “You’re new to this, so if ya want me to take the lead I will,” Majima’s voice was deep and serious. His hand travelled downward and cupped the front of Kiryu’s pants, “but there ain’t much I wouldn’t let ya do to me, so keep that in mind.”

 Kiryu shuddered. Still behind him, Majima’s mouth stayed on his neck as his hands travelled to Kiryu’s waist, undoing his pants and letting them drop to the floor. Kiryu stepped out of them as Majima pulled the open shirt off his shoulders. Once it was gone, Majima was against him again, still fully dressed while Kiryu stood in front of him in only his boxer-briefs. Majima’s hands coiled around his abdomen, before his right hand found its way under his waistband. 

 Kiryu hadn’t been touched in so long. He hadn’t bothered with women since he came to Okinawa, and he took care of his own needs only when he was desperate and alone. Majima was waking up something in him that had been dormant for too long. Something he now knew had always existed between the two of them.

 Then Majima’s hand squeezed, and his thoughts were shocked back to the present. He couldn’t help the full-body shudder that went through him at the touch. Majima kept his other arm across Kiryu’s chest, which Kiryu grabbed with both hands. 

“Sensitive, eh?” Majima murmured into his ear, sounding pleased with himself as his thumb caressed along the length of his shaft.

“It’s been a while,” Kiryu replied, “and it’s you.”

“I’m just gettin’ started,” Majima said, kissing the side of his neck, “but it’s been a while for me too.” He began to move his hand, Kiryu hissed out a breath, leaning into the touch. His other hand brushed over his chest, lightly grazing his nipple in a very intentional way. 

“Really?” Kiryu asked. 

“I’ve been too busy.” Majima replied, “Oh, and I’ve had a clean bill o’ health since, if ya were worried.”

“I wasn’t worried. I trust you.” Kiryu said, holding back a groan as Majima’s hand slowly pumped him. Just as slowly and deliberately, Kiryu felt teeth in his shoulder. 

 Kiryu made an involuntary sound. Majima licked and kissed over where he’d bitten. It hadn’t been hard, and wouldn’t leave a mark, but it made him realize there was a lot out there he didn’t know he liked. An exciting thought. “Yer so big and hard for me already.” Majima said, his voice a low growl, “Can ya blame me for wantin’ a taste?”

 Kiryu had no idea what to say to that, and it didn’t help when Majima let him go and walked around to face him, a look in his eye that Kiryu would have previously interpreted as dangerous, but now?

“Look at you.” Majima whispered. He grabbed Kiryu and licked his throat, then continued down his chest, like he needed to taste all of his skin. Kiryu had never been with someone so brazen, and it stoked the fire in him. He was shook out of his reverie again when Majima dropped to his knees, both his hands on the waistband of Kiryu’s underwear. His intention was clear, and Kiryu tensed up. 

“I, uh..” he sputtered. “Y-you don’t have to.”

 Majima’s eye widened. “Shit. Don’t tell me nobody’s ever done this for you.”

“It’s not that, but you shouldn’t feel obliged-”

“Obliged? Who d’ya think you’re talkin’ to?” 

 Kiryu didn’t know what to say. Majima leaned back on his heels. “Here. Lie down, Kiryu-chan.” he said, patting the futon. 

 Kiryu did as he was told. As the back of his head hit the pillow, he cursed himself for breaking the mood. He remembered back to the girl he briefly dated when he was seventeen. She’d done this particular act for him once, then said it was demeaning when he asked again. The only other time had been a one-night stand with a telephone club girl, who had seemed into it, but didn’t call him again. 

 Majima shrugged his shirt off, and once again seemed to read his mind. “I’m not doin’ anything I don’t wanna be doin’.”

 Kiryu took a breath and nodded. Majima leaned in and kissed him, a deep, tender kiss. “You’re thinking way too much again, aren’t ya?” he said, licking across Kiryu’s lips. That dangerous look melted into a warm smile. “Relax, Darlin’. I’ve been dreamin’ ‘bout this.”

 If he hadn’t already been turned on, that smile would have done it. Kiryu closed his eyes, and let Majima pull his last shred of clothing away. “So fucking perfect.” Majima said under his breath, so low that Kiryu wasn’t sure if he was supposed to hear. He smiled, letting his body relax as Majima climbed between his legs. 

 Without warning or lead up, Majima’s mouth was on him, hot and eager. His expert tongue swirled around his tip the same way it had when they’d kissed, and Kiryu let out a loud moan. Majima responded in kind, and took his cock deep into his mouth, so deep that Kiryu had to look to see how it was possible. He met Majima’s eye, then let his head fall backwards with another moan. His whole body was set on fire, burning with pleasure. 

 Majima’s mouth was skilled and relentless. Kiryu knew he should probably say something, but all he could manage were gasping breaths. He looked down again and touched Majima’s hair, pushing it away from his eye. Majima pulled his mouth away, then his tongue drew a line from base to tip. Kiryu watched, enthralled, as he repeated that motion, cradling his balls with a gentleness that contrasted with the mischievous look in his eye. Majima’s lips were pink and wet, and his breath was hot on Kiryu’s skin. 

“You’re.. incredible.” Kiryu said as those attractive, soft lips engulfed him once more. Majima squeezed his thigh in response, and he increased his speed. Kiryu couldn’t help bucking his hips. “S-sorry.” he gasped. 

“Are ya kidding? Do it again.” was the breathless response. “C’mon, Kiryu-chan, fuck my mouth.”

 The crass language shouldn’t have affected him so deeply, but it did. Kiryu complied, hesitant at first, but he was encouraged by the contented noises Majima was making, and the way he was being touched. It was all happening so fast, but Majima only urged him on. 

 His hips bucked erratically, and as they did Majima grabbed hold of his ass with one hand, and the base of his cock with the other, guiding them both into a fast, insistent pace that made Kiryu forget anything else but this feeling. The fire, the electricity, whatever it was, was all consuming. He looked at Majima again and the sight of his hollowed cheeks was too much to handle, and he shut his eyes tight. His entire body went rigid as the tension built. 

“I’m, I’m gonna…” Kiryu managed to say. 

 There was no hesitation from Majima. Just another contented noise and an encouraging squeeze of his ass, pushing Kiryu over the edge with a strangled gasp. Majima’s mouth never left him, swallowing everything he gave.

 When Kiryu finally opened his eyes, he saw spots from keeping them closed too tight. “Majima.” he grunted, reaching out  and hauling him up to his chest, to the same position he’d spent most of the night before. Kiryu held him tight as they both panted. It didn’t matter how sweaty either of them had gotten, he needed Majima as close as possible. 

“I didn’t know that.. I didn’t know it could feel like that.” Kiryu said once he could breathe normally again. “I didn’t know anything could feel like that.” 

 Majima laughed triumphantly. His tongue flicked against Kiryu’s chest, then he pushed himself up onto one elbow. His cheeks were flushed, and his hair was plastered to his head. He’d never looked better. 

“You’re gorgeous when ya cum.” Majima said.

 Kiryu couldn’t respond to that, but he did like hearing it. Instead he leaned in and kissed him. “Why are you still wearing these?” he asked, pushing Majima to the side and reaching to unbutton his shorts. 

 Majima didn’t need any encouragement and quickly stripped. “That’s better.” Kiryu said, running his hand along the side of Majima’s thigh to the bottom edge of his tattoos. The sight had his blood surging again. Majima was naked and hard. Hard for him. “You look so good. Just so… good.”

“You have no clue how much power ya got when yer voice gets all deep like that, do ya?” Majima asked, that dangerous look back on his face. 

“I guess not.” Kiryu said. That was good to know.

 Majima swung his leg over and straddled his waist. Kiryu smiled, remembering just how many times he’d been in this position. “This used to be your favourite way to hit me in the face.” Kiryu said, keeping his voice deep. 

“Still is, Kiryu-chan!” Majima said, squeezing his thighs around Kiryu’s sides. He brought his fist back and bared his teeth, but Kiryu knew the way he fought well enough to trust that this was an empty threat. He grabbed the fist and pulled, bringing Majima closer so he could kiss his scarred knuckles. Kiryu’s other hand moved up Majima’s left thigh, apparently too slowly for his liking because Majima grabbed his wrist and brought it between his legs, moving his hips slightly so Kiryu’s hand had better access as his fingers closed around him. 

 Majima let out a long breath and shut his eyes as Kiryu’s fingers trailed over his cock. Kiryu added that sight to the growing list of things he didn’t know could turn him on. 

“You’ve been so patient.” Kiryu said gently as his hand explored. 

“You have no idea.” Majima said, eye still closed. “Last night took a lotta willpower. I wanted to suck ya off then too.” He rested his hand overtop of Kiryu’s. “Harder.”

“Yeah. Show me what you need.”

“You don’t know what you’re asking.” Majima said, in an equally deep voice to the one Kiryu had been using. He was right, it did have an effect. 

“Maybe not,” Kiryu said, “but I’ve got a feeling I’ll like whatever you want me to do.”

 Majima smirked and arched his back, reaching behind himself. When his hand found how hard Kiryu was again, he laughed, a softer version of that shrill cackle that used to get under his skin. 

“Already, huh?” Majima said, grinning that wild smile of his. He lunged forward, hands planted on either side of Kiryu’s face, eye wide. “Ya sure, Kiryu-chan?  Ya sure ya wanna fuck the mad dog?”

 Was this a test? Kiryu touched his neck and pulled him closer, nearly forehead to forehead. “I want every version of you.” he said firmly. Majima froze. He opened his mouth but said nothing. Kiryu kissed him, then sat up, holding him in his lap. Majima moaned into his mouth, grinding his ass back against Kiryu’s erection. 

“I have.. um,” Kiryu said, looking behind them. 

“My bag’s closer, gimme a sec.” Majima replied. The wildness had ebbed, but he was still grinning. Kiryu let him twist out of his lap and land ungracefully on the floor, stretching his long body across the room to grab for his bag. 

 Kiryu laughed under his breath, keeping his hands on Majima as he rummaged for what he was after. It was so good to touch him, to run his hand over the defined abdominal muscles he’d spent years trying not to stare at. To see the entirety of his tattoo. “I can’t stop looking at you.” Kiryu said, taking in the sight without shame. 

“You’re not just gonna look, are ya?” Majima said, clutching a bottle in his hand. 

“No.” Kiryu said. Majima was still stretched out on the floor. Kiryu put both arms around him and half-pulled, half-carried him until Majima was on his back with his head on the pillow, earning a delighted laugh. Kiryu then kneeled between his legs. He took the bottle of lubricant out of Majima’s hands, and squeezed some out into his own. It smelled like cherries. He looked at the label and found it to be flavoured.

 He took Majima in his hand again, which made him throw his head back and groan. Kiryu watched in awe at the reaction. It was a beautiful sight. Majima had been right, he was in trouble. He was going to get addicted to this. 

 With his left hand still slowly working his shaft, Kiryu reached lower with his right, cupping Majima’s balls, then continuing lower still. A sharp inhale from Majima made him pause and look up. Majima had his eye shut tight. 

“You okay?” Kiryu asked. 

“Yeah.” 

“What is it?”

“Nothing.” Majima said quickly. When Kiryu stayed still, Majima gave an exasperated sigh. “Ya just…  you don’t want to know how much I’ve thought about this.” he added, eye still closed. 

 Kiryu continued. Majima let out another gasp as Kiryu’s slick finger circled his hole. “Why wouldn’t I want to know that?” he asked in a low voice. He could feel the twitch against his other hand. It made him feel powerful to be able to invoke these reactions. He kept his hands moving, feeling Majima relax under his touch. 

“Ooh, yer gonna kill me.” Majima murmured.

Kiryu slowly slid a finger inside him. No noise came out of Majima this time, but his mouth opened and his back arched. 

“Tell me if I do something wrong. I don’t want to hurt you.”

“You won’t. You’re doing great, Kiryu-chan.”

 Kiryu continued slowly till he could add a second finger. He took his time to stretch him, to let him relax further. “Fuck, Kiryu,” Majima groaned, “thought ya hadn’t done this before.” 

“Uh n-no, not with um….” Kiryu said trailing off.  Despite their extremely intimate position, embarrassment coursed through him. 

 Majima’s eye shot open, “Don’t disappear on me now,” he whispered, thrusting his hips into Kiryu’s hand, “I gotta know how that sentence ends.”

 He’d expected teasing, but Majima didn’t say any more. Kiryu tried to focus on what he was doing instead of answering, but he knew this wouldn’t go away. 

“Did ya mean Not… with a man?” Majima urged, trying to catch his eye, “Or Not.. with another person?”

 It took a lot to make Kiryu blush, but he could feel his cheeks burning. The way Majima’s eye was looking right through him intensified the feeling. Somehow that was enough for Majima to figure out what he wasn’t saying. What he’d never admitted, and never expected to ever admit to anyone. 

“Oh.” Majima’s voice was quiet, and sounded almost awed. “To.. yourself?  You’ve fingered yourself?”

 Kiryu couldn’t answer, but gave a short nod. His hands were still working Majima, and he could feel him grow even harder under his hand. Kiryu snuck a look, and the look Majima was giving him back could only be described as pure, unfiltered lust. Maybe it was strange to be surprised given the circumstances, but he expected a different reaction. 

“That’s so fuckin’ hot, Kiryu-chan.” Majima said with a moan. “Holy shit. Yer gonna have to show me sometime.”

 Kiryu nodded again, still unable to speak. It had only been a couple of times, and he’d felt ashamed of himself every time he’d done it. But embarrassed as he felt, Majima’s reaction helped him let go of some of that shame.

“But ya got somethin’ else to do now, don’t ya.” Majima continued, wrapping a leg around Kiryu, his heel against his spine.

“You’re ready?”

“I’m all yours.”

 Maybe that was just something people said when they were entangled, but his admission shook Kiryu out of his embarrassment. The idea that Majima could be his made him feel… he couldn’t even put words to it. He leaned forward and Majima closed the distance till their mouths met in a deep kiss. “You are, aren’t you?” Kiryu said, lips almost touching. 

“All yours, Kiryu-chan.” That dangerous gleam was in his eye again, the one he’d seen so many times before. The one that told him Majima had been thinking of him just as long as Kiryu had been trying not to think of Majima.

 Kiryu kissed him again.  He should have seen it. Majima was right, he hadn’t been subtle about it. “I’ve been an idiot.” 

 Majima chuckled, “And you’re takin’ yer sweet time makin’ it up to me.”

“Right.”

 Majima’s head fell back against the pillow as Kiryu held Majima’s hips and angled them, pulling him up and on top of Kiryu’s thighs. Kiryu then took himself in his hand with vigour, applying a generous amount of lube to both of them. His excitement far outweighed any nervousness now. He lined himself up and looked down at Majima, who nodded. As he began to push himself inside, he fought to keep his eyes from closing. He could hear Majima trying to control his breathing through his parted lips. Such pretty lips. How had it taken him till today to notice?

“Don’t stop on me now.” those lips urged.

 Kiryu nodded, and continued slowly inward till he was buried inside Majima. The tight pressure made it hard to think, and he had to shut his eyes for a moment. the Majima wrapped both legs around Kiryu’s waist. Kiryu let his hands wander from Majima’s hips to his ass, and almost at the same time, they began to move. 

 A strangled gasp came from Kiryu. “You’re so…” he started, barely able to think. The words hot and tight came to mind, but neither encapsulated exactly what he was feeling. This was everything. He rolled his hips and grabbed Majima by his. Then again, and again, slowly building momentum. 

“Kiryu,” Majima said, almost to himself, “my Kiryu-chan.”

 There was a smile on his face when Kiryu caught his eye, then he adjusted slightly and Majima’s back completely arched off the futon. “There! Fuck, just like that. ”

 Kiryu reached with for the lube bottle with one hand and a little clumsily got some more into his palm. He then wrapped that hand around Majima’s shaft, moving his hand at the same time as his hips. Majima whimpered, then threw his arm over his face as if he regretted the noise. 

“Don’t.” Kiryu said, “I want to hear you. You sound so..” he thought for a second. The sheer pleasure made it difficult to talk, and he wasn’t used to complimenting men in this way. “You’re so sexy right now.” 

 Majima took his hand away from his face  and smiled at him briefly before his body contorted off the floor again. His legs squeezed in a death grip around Kiryu and he picked up the pace. Kiryu moaned, unable to hold back how good that made him feel. 

“Yeah. C’mon, harder.” Majima urged. Soon they were slamming into each other hard and fast, in such a perfect rhythm that it felt so far beyond anything he’d ever felt. It was rough and animalistic, filthy and beautiful all at the same time. 

“I knew you’d be this good, Kiryu-chan,” Majima said between gasping breaths, “I fucking knew it.” His head turned to the side and let out that whimper again, closing his eye tight. Gone were any of his usual theatrics. This was genuine, raw, and the hottest thing Kiryu had ever seen. Majima’s lithe body gleamed with sweat, heaving fast breaths underneath the bright snakes and flowers on his chest and arms, dangerous and beautiful. So beautiful. 

 Kiryu groaned. He was close again, and by the way Majima kept pulsing under his hand, he knew he wasn’t the only one. Seconds later Majima shuddered, mouth open wide in a silent yell, eye closed, as he reached his peak, spilling into Kiryu’s hand and onto his own stomach. 

 He slowed his hips as Majima came down, keeping his hand firmly around his cock as aftershocks pulsed through him. “Keep going, Kiryu,” he gasped, “fill me up. Don’t fucking stop.”

 It didn’t take long. Under a minute later it was Kiryu’s turn. He came hard, clenching his teeth to keep from yelling. Majima squeezed him until he couldn’t take it any more and pulled out, breathing as hard as if they’d been locked in combat. 

 He didn’t have a towel in the room, but he reached for a box of tissues and cleaned them both up. Majima lay flat with his arms over his head, watching him with a look of complete satisfaction. Kiryu had never felt such an ego boost. 

“C’mere.” Majima said after Kiryu finished throwing the tissues away. He held his arm out wide like Kiryu had done for him last night. Kiryu laid down beside him, resting his head on Majima’s chest, draped halfway overtop of him but holding himself up. careful not to crush him. 

 Majima pulled him closer. “Relax. I’m strong enough to handle your weight.”

Kiryu let himself relax, and Majima’s arms closed around him. “I know how strong you are. You don’t have to prove that to me.”

“Ya just keep surprising me.” Majima said with a shaky breath. 

“Call it payback for all the surprises you’ve given me in the past.”

 Majima ruffled Kiryu’s hair. “I’ll never forget the look on yer face when we pulled off that zombie attack.”

 Kiryu squeezed him around the waist. “That was a bad surprise.”

“I didn’t hear any complainin’ when ya got bit today.” 

“That was different.”

“Wasn’t that different.” Majima said, “Got me close to ya.”

“Was that the goal of all of those stunts?” Kiryu asked, honestly curious. He ran his hand over Majima’s arm. 

 Majima took a second before answering, messing up his hair further. “Not all of em. I wanted to understand you, and I definitely wanted the fight, but the more we fought, the more I wanted more than just the fight, ya know?” Majima paused, “And I ain’t stupid. I know i took it too far. I was selfish as hell and I wasn’t workin’ with the whole story.”

 That was true. Despite the draw he felt from Majima, there were times he was so frustrating that Kiryu had never wanted to see him again. There were also times where he wanted nothing more than for him to show up. What a weird road they’d walked together. 

“That’s in the past. We’re here now.” Kiryu said, holding him tight. 

 Majima sighed. “You’re amazing.”

“So are you.”

“I am great, ain’t I.”

“Yeah.” Kiryu replied. Majima could joke all he wanted, Kiryu had made up his mind to be honest. He raised his head so he could look at his face. “You’ve done so much for me since then. Don’t think I don’t appreciate it.”

“I feel pretty damn appreciated right now.” Majima said, taking Kiryu’s hand and kissing the inside of his palm. Kiryu kept his hand against his face, tracing his soft lips with his thumb. 

“And you’re alright?” Kiryu asked, “I didn’t hurt you?”

 Majima shook his head. He’d been watching Kiryu closely, but now he blinked up at the ceiling. “Fuck, Kiryu-chan. You’re gonna make me shy lookin’ at me like that.”

 Kiryu was touched. “After all that, now is when you get shy?”

“What can I say, those pretty eyes of yours  mess with me.” Majima said with a laugh that almost sounded nervous. 

Despite his words, Majima kept looking at him, touching his cheek with an unusual tenderness. Kiryu couldn’t resist taking the hand and lightly biting it. Majima yelped, then burst into a fit of laughter, grabbing his shoulders and scuffling until he had Kiryu on his back underneath him. Majima leaned down till their chests touched and they shared a languishing kiss. It felt like they’d been kissing for a lot longer than just a day.

 Majima rolled off and landed on his back, stretching this limbs, cat-like, looking pleased until there was a loud pop.

 Kiryu turned on his side. “Was that your shoulder?”

“My neck. I make all kinds of stupid noises nowadays.”

“My knees are bad for that.” Kiryu said, raising a leg and bending his knee, which made a click. 

“Yer gettin’ old. Here, listen to this one.”  Majima also raised his leg, and shifted slightly. His hip clunked. 

 Kiryu chuckled and rubbed Majima’s thigh before he put it down. “I like your legs.”

“Mmm, so I should’ve brought the fishnets?”

“Uh, I don’t know.” Kiryu said honestly. “Maybe.”

“S’a joke. Wasn’t tryna put ya on the spot.”

 Kiryu thought back to that night, when Majima had worn the fishnets and heels and the tight dress. “That night, at Shine… I got to talk to you. Really talk to you. I know it was supposed to be a joke, but I meant everything I said.”

 Majima stared at him for a moment. “So did she.”

 Kiryu sat up and ran a hand through his hair. “I should have a shower.” Still stretched out on his back, Majima just looked him over. Kiryu touched his arm. “You should too.”

“Is that an invitation, or are ya callin’ me dirty.” he said, with a slight thrust of his hips. 

“Come on. Let’s get you clean.” Kiryu said, hoping that was enough of an answer for both questions. 

 He stood up and held out his hand. Majima took it and got to his feet, still grasping Kiryu’s hand. Pulling him up from the floor reminded him of their last arena fight. Majima nodded like he understood, and yanked his arm forward, the way he had last year, standing nearly chest to chest. The look on his face was the same one he had then. 

“I finally found somethin’ I like better than fighting ya.” Majima said. 

“I finally feel like I can read you a little better.” Kiryu replied. 

“Yeah?” he touched his forehead, “Whatcha got?”

“I know you’d be okay if I kissed you right now.”

“That’s the clean version, yeah.” Majima said, leaning close. Kiryu put all of his feelings into that kiss, standing naked in the middle of his room. He felt elated, exhausted, and extremely satisfied. His arms wrapped around Majima, still revelling that he was allowed to touch him like this, mapping his body with his fingertips. He didn’t expect Majima to like kissing so much, but he was so enthusiastic. Maybe he was also felt like he was making up for lost time. 

 Majima was the first to break the kiss, breathing fast in his arms as Kiryu held him in a tight hug. He rested his head on Kiryu’s shoulder and sighed, letting out that contented sound that Kiryu loved. 

 They stayed there for a long moment. Kiryu never imagined he’d have this kind of closeness with anyone again. Or anyone at all, really. This was so different than anything he’d ever experienced. 

 Majima cleared his throat. “I’m not going to want to let ya go at this rate.” he said, then laughed, maybe to offset the emotion in his voice.

“I could carry you to the shower, but I have a strict rule about not walking around naked in the house.”

“Ugh, fine.” Majima said, loosening his grip, “Let’s see if I can peel my sweaty self away from ya.”

 They didn’t bother with shirts, but they rushed to the bathroom half-dressed like they were racing. When the orphanage was rebuilt, Kiryu had wanted it exactly as it was, but the bathroom was the one thing Haruka had convinced him to upgrade. There was now a brand new shower with a large tub, two sinks, and far more space. Hooks with the kids’ towels lined the wall, and the mirror was much larger than the little one they had before. 

 Kiryu turned on the shower, letting the water warm up. He heard Majima’s shorts drop to the floor behind him as he set some towels out. Once done, Majima pulled him forward by his hips and undid his pants, grinning as he kicked them away. 

“Why are you smiling? You just saw me naked.” Kiryu said. 

“I appreciate a good reveal.” Majima said, fully leering at him now. Then suddenly the smile was gone. 

“Are you alright?” Kiryu asked. 

“Fine. I..” Majima rolled his eye. “This is a hell of a good day.  I don’t wanna fuck it up with somethin’ so...”

“What is it?” Kiryu said, holding his shoulders. 

 Majima looked at him. Kiryu couldn’t read his expression. He waited. Then Majima brought his hands up to his face and Kiryu felt like an idiot for not realizing sooner. 

“Oh,” Kiryu said, “that won’t change anything.”

 Majima hesitated, then undid the tie at the back of his head. Kiryu tried to look encouraging as he took the eyepatch away. 

 Kiryu was expecting worse. The left eyelid was shut, but the lid itself was heavily scarred, like it had been stabbed while his eye was closed. The under-eye was darker, but only slightly sunken. There was a small mole under his eye socket. 

 Kiryu touched his left cheek. “I didn’t know you had a beauty mark under there.”

“Aw, fuck off.” Majima groaned. He didn’t look unhappy, but he did try to push Kiryu over. Kiryu didn’t budge, and instead held Majima’s head in his hands. 

“It’s good to see your whole face.” Kiryu said. Majima looked away, so Kiryu kissed his forehead, then his mouth. 

“That’s it?” 

“What do you mean?”

 Majima shrugged. “People usually have more questions.”

“Does it hurt to keep the patch on all day?” Kiryu asked, running his thumb over the faint pink line on Majima’s cheek from the eyepatch strap.

“Took a while to get used to at first, but that was decades ago. It’s a relief to take it off at night, but I don’t think about it during the day.”

 That answer sounded practiced. “You don’t have to wear it around me.” He put his hands back on Majima’s shoulders and took a step back, taking in his whole, nude form. “I like seeing all of you at once.”

 Majima looked like he didn’t know what to say. Kiryu took his hand and pulled him under the warm water. 

 The shower wasn’t small but Majima clung to him, his face against Kiryu’s neck like he couldn’t get enough of him. It made him feel strong. 

 Kiryu lathered up the washcloth he’d brought in with them and rubbed it along Majima’s back. He wanted him to feel cared for, to know how important this was to him, regardless of what the future held. 

 The last thing Kiryu wanted was to think about was the future. Not when the present was a deeply buried fantasy he never dreamed would come true. He shut his eyes and let the shower spray him in the face.

“You’re tryin’ to drown again.” Majima said, moving him out of the spray. He pushed Kiryu’s hair back. 

“I’m trying to clean you up.” Kiryu said. He held him around the waist, and moved the washcloth over Majima’s chest, while Majima found Kiryu’s shampoo, the only bottle that wasn’t a bright colour. He busied himself trying to wash Kiryu’s hair, massaging the lather vigorously into his scalp. “Stop squirming.” Kiryu said.

 Majima looked stern, but he couldn’t stop the gleam of mischief in his eye, “Can’t, I’m busy. It’s about time you had a new do.”  

 Kiryu leaned his head out of the shower stall to look in the mirror. His hair was sticking up in two little points like devil horns. He smothered a smile and put on the most stern face he could before bringing his head back inside. 

“I like it.” he said. 

 Majima laughed. “I don’t buy that for a second, but I love that yer playin’ along.”

 Kiryu kissed him before rinsing out his hair. When he was done he opened his eyes to see Majima with that hungry look on his face. Kiryu felt spent. It had been a long time since he’d had sex, much less hard and fast and twice in a row, but if anyone could test the limits of his stamina, it was Majima. He let his thoughts run wild with ways to reciprocate as he continued washing, and trailed his hand through the suds down Majima’s side to his hip. Majima watched his hand. More buried fantasies rose to the surface as he finished washing Majima’s body.

 Kiryu put his hand on Majima’s chest and moved him so he was under the spray. He didn’t resist, and sighed as Kiryu rinsed him off. 

 Majima had become strangely quiet as they got each other clean. His hands stayed on Kiryu’s body the whole time, and every touch intensified the floodgate of feelings Kiryu had pulled open the night before. This thing between them was more than chemistry and lust. The depth was daunting. And exciting. 

“Kiryu-chan.” Majima said, touching his cheek. Sometimes it felt like he really could read his mind.

 Kiryu backed Majima up against the shower wall, and nudged his legs apart with his knee. He took Majima’s hand away from his face and kissed his palm. He knew what he wanted to do. He kept eye contact, and kissed Majima’s hand again, sucking at the skin. Majima drew in a breath. 

 The running water hit the side of Kiryu’s neck and ran down between them. He put his hand on the wall next to Majima’s head and kissed his neck, then his collarbone. Majima moaned and bucked his hips forward, which made Kiryu happy. Majima couldn’t move much, trapped against the wall the way he was. Kiryu hummed his approval, then continued lower. He had to close his eyes against the shower spray, but his lips found Majima’s right nipple. Majima’s hands tightened on his back as Kiryu’s tongue circled around and closed his lips around the hard nub. 

 Despite his inexperience at the act he was about to perform, Kiryu felt confident that he could figure it out. Majima made him feel bold. As he enjoyed the feeling of the abdominal muscles under his tongue, Majima reached up and turned the shower nozzle to the side and away from Kiryu’s face. Kiryu wiped his eyes, and looked up and smiled as he sunk to his knees. 

 Majima blinked, looking at him in disbelief, Kiryu’s hand squeezed his thigh, and his other hand ran down his abdomen. “Kiryu-chan.” he whispered again. Kiryu might have worried something was wrong if Majima wasn’t so rock hard in front of him. 

 Kiryu watched his face as his hand wrapped around Majima’s cock, then he opened his mouth and licked the underside. He never thought he’d ever do something like this, much less enjoy it. He’d gone down on women a couple of times, but those instances were few and far between. He liked to think it was something he was good at, but nothing had ever stoked his ego like the reaction he was getting now. 

 He’d barely touched his tongue to him when Majima moaned and slapped his hand against the wall. He looked down at Kiryu, eye wide. Kiryu opened his mouth and took him in. He heard Majima make a choked sound once Kiryu started moving. He tried swirling his tongue around the way Majima had done for him. Kiryu’s hand was still resting on Majima’s thigh, and he could feel it shake as he continued.

 His actions grew increasingly confident. When he had to catch his breath he used his hands and looked up at Majima. Kiryu was struck by the vulnerable expression on his face. “You okay?” he asked. 

 Majima nodded, thrusting his hips forward into Kiryu’s hand. “I’m gonna be dead by the end of the day, Kiryu-chan. Dead on the floor from bein’ too fuckin’ happy.” 

 The vulnerability was gone, replaced by a smirk. Kiryu liked both expressions. He wanted to safeguard that vulnerability. He wanted to wipe that smirk off his face. What he did instead was try to fit as much of Majima’s cock in his mouth as he could without choking. He set to work, pleased whenever Majima made any kind of noise. 

“Never thought I’d see the day,” Majima mumbled, “you’re killin’ me, Kiryu. Yer so hot.”

 Kiryu didn’t know why he kept mentioning death, but it felt like a compliment. Majima’s leg shook again. Kiryu pulled his mouth away, smiling at the groan of protest above him. He grabbed Majima’s left leg and hoisted his knee overtop of his shoulder. The noise Majima made was somewhere between a laugh and a moan. Kiryu rested a hand under his left thigh to keep him steady and sucked him into his mouth again. 

 After a minute, Kiryu decided this wasn’t enough and he nudged Majima’s other leg. Majima’s laugh sounded delirious. “Are ya nuts? I got nothin’ to hold. I can’t help ya.”

 Kiryu looked up at him, determined. “I’m strong enough.”

 Majima shuddered like he’d said something lewd. “Course ya are, Kiryu-chan.”

 Kiryu held both hands under his ass and hoisted him up, with both Majima’s legs resting on his shoulders. Majima kept his back and one hand braced against the wall. His other hand ran though Kiryu’s hair, then he reached between his legs and helped guide his now leaking cock back into Kiryu’s mouth. 

“Ah!” Majima gasped, “Fuck, you’re so strong. Gonna make me pop already.”

 That was gratifying. Majima kept talking, but his praise soon turned unintelligible.  Kiryu continued faster. His knees and jaw were getting sore, and his arms were tired from holding him, but he didn’t care. Majima’s reactions were too good. Too sexy. He’d remember this forever. Tired as he was, Kiryu was half-hard again.  

“Let me cum on yer chest?” Majima asked  between heaving breaths. 

 Kiryu nodded and leaned his head back, relieved for his jaw. Plus now he got to watch him, precariously balanced over his shoulders, as he jacked himself off. What a sight. The words filthy and beautiful filled his mind again. This was worth the ache from holding him there. They locked eyes and Majima tensed up and spasmed, angling his release onto Kiryu’s neck and upper chest, panting and grunting as he came. 

 After a moment, Majima put one of his shaky legs on the ground. Kiryu splashed himself off with water, then maneuvered Majima down into his lap, leaning back on his heels. Majima’s head once again rested on his shoulder as he held him. His whole body was trembling. Kiryu held him close and let him catch his breath, but he couldn’t stay in this position long. He pulled Majima back to look at him. He looked vulnerable again. Beyond vulnerable. The raw emotion on his face shocked Kiryu. He couldn’t tell if it was water, tears, or sweat around his eyes.

“I…” Majima started, then shook his head and pressed their foreheads together. 

“Yeah.” Kiryu said. He might not have known the end of that thought for sure, but he saw the depth of his own feelings reflected on Majima’s face. 

“My knees are going to cramp if I stay here.” Kiryu said.

 Majima stood, and reached for the washcloth that had fallen to the shower  floor. He held a hand and helped Kiryu to his feet. They washed off quickly, as the water was starting to get cold. 

Kiryu turned the shower off and grabbed a towel. He pulled it around both of them, drying Majima’s back as he held him to his chest. Majima felt like a ragdoll, still clinging to Kiryu as he dried them both. Kiryu didn’t mind doing all the work. He wanted to care for him, beyond anything sexual. He wasn’t great with words, but he could dry his hair, and kiss the top of his shoulders, and everything else that Majima would probably call sentimental crap if he weren’t in his current pliant state.  

 Kiryu reluctantly pulled away to put his underwear and pants back on. Majima finished drying himself and dressed as well. He found Kiryu’s comb on the counter and parted his hair in his usual way. He was quiet, and Kiryu didn’t know how to break the silence. Kiryu rubbed some of his pomade in his hands and brushed it into his hair with his fingers. When he finished he saw Majima watching him through the mirror. 

“Lookin’ good, Kiryu-chan.” he said. His voice was loud, but he didn’t quite sound like his usual self yet.

“So do you.”

 Majima kissed his shoulder. “Now give me a minute alone in here, huh?” he said, pushing him out of the room. 

 Kiryu walked back to his room and pulled the door open wide to air out the space. He found his shirt, and put the futons away, replaying the morning in his mind.

He laid down flat on the floor. How was ever supposed to let go of Majima now? One thing he knew for sure is there was no way this was ‘it’. They’d have to figure something out, because he couldn’t handle him leaving without knowing when he was coming back. Maybe Majima would be okay holding off on renting a speedboat if he knew Kiryu could save that money to fly out to see him sometime. 

 Kiryu shook his head and stared up at the ceiling, trying to shut out thoughts about the future. Majima had mentioned overstaying his welcome a couple of times. Kiryu wondered how long he could get him to stay. There was still so much he wanted to do, and he’d only been here two days. 

 He smiled to himself. What a morning. It was nearly lunchtime, and he had a few more hours before he had to pretend that Majima was just an old friend. 

 Heavy footsteps outside the room grew louder. Majima appeared in the doorway, holding his eyepatch and smiling down at where he lay on the floor. He still looked flushed. “Did ya fall down?” he teased. 

“Something like that.” Kiryu said. He sat up. “Are you hungry?”

“I think so.” Majima said, lightly prodding  Kiryu’s leg with his foot. “Ya scrambled my brain. Don’t ask me any tough questions for a while.”

 Majima held his hand out, and Kiryu took it got to his feet. He kept hold of his hand as they walked to the kitchen.

“Well ain’t this sweet.” Majima said, swinging their arms. Kiryu just smiled. 

 He made them a simple lunch of eggs on rice, while Majima watched over his shoulder. He kept his hands on Kiryu the whole time, teasing and asking inane questions about what he was doing. It made Kiryu wonder if he was trying to counteract how uncharacteristically emotional he’d been just fifteen minutes before, but either way, he was enjoying the closeness. 

 They sat down to eat, shoulder to shoulder. 

“Mmm. Guess I worked up an appetite.” Majima said, mouth full. 

 Kiryu was lost in thought, but nodded,  “Yeah.”

“Whatcha thinkin’?”

“I was wondering how I’m supposed to walk around with you now and not try to kiss you.”

 Majima laughed and shook his shoulder. “Kiryu-chan! Such a smooth-talker.” he took another bite. “Don’t worry about me though, I can pretend not to like ya if I have to.”

“Don’t go that far.” Kiryu said. “But I wish things were easier, you know, for us.  I don’t want you to be a secret.”

 Majima sighed. “I won’t put yer position here in jeopardy, I’ll promise you that.”

 Kiryu looked at him. “But don’t stay away too long either.”

 Majima nodded, but he didn’t look happy. He looked.. wistful maybe?  Kiryu put his arm around his waist. “I mean it, Nii-san. I’ll miss you too much.”

 Majima put his head on Kiryu’s shoulder. “Ya big softie,” he said, “this is a damn good day. I don’t want to think about anything except the two of us goin’ at it.”

“Heh, yeah.” Kiryu said, and kissed the top of his head.

Notes:

Thank you all so much for reading, and for your comments. They all made me so happy.

Chapter 8: Wednesday Evening

 After lunch Kiryu and Majima sat down at the table outside for a smoke. There was more wind than yesterday, and the cool air was refreshing. Majima was looking up at a large bird flying over the ocean, shielding his eye from the sun. Kiryu threw a ball across the yard for Mame, who obediently fetched. Kiryu still felt dazed by what had happened, but he was in a very good mood.

 Tomorrow he’d be introducing Majima to the Ryudo family. Yesterday, that might have made him nervous, but now he was looking forward to showing him off. Kiryu knew they’d heard rumours about the Dragon of Dojima before they’d met him, and it made him wonder what they might have heard about Majima. There had always been a ton of rumours surrounding him. It had been that way ever since Kiryu had joined up, especially amongst the Dojima family. 

 He told this to Majima, who nodded. “Did ya ever hear the one that was somethin’ like… if I wear a shirt for too long I overheat and go crazy?  I liked that one.”

“Heh, no, I never heard that.”

“That might have been while you were doin’ time, I don’t remember. It was a hot, batshit kinda summer.”

 Kiryu shook his head. “Someone once told me you wore an eyepatch because your left eye was blue.”

“Hah! I’ve heard every version of that story. It’s blue, it’s yellow, it’s a normal eye and I’m walkin’ around with a blind spot for no fuckin’ reason. Some new kid once asked if I keep the old eye in a jar in my office.” He smiled, rubbing his left eyelid that was still bare. “The trick is to glare hard enough when a guy asks that he never asks again. A bat to the knee don’t hurt either.”

 Kiryu had heard it was Shimano who kept the eye in a jar, but he didn’t mention that. “Saejima told me what happened, how you really lost it. I didn’t ask, he just told me like he thought I should know.”

 Majima’s jaw clenched. “He made me sound tough at least, right?”

“I don’t think you can go through what you did and not sound tough.”

 Majima examined him carefully. Kiryu kept his face free of any concern, staring at his good eye. After a moment, Majima seemed satisfied that he wasn’t being pitied. Kiryu felt like he’d passed a test. 

“Saejima always could tell a good story. He’s been talkin’ my ear off the last few weeks.” Majima said, “Didja know he was training guys at some goofy-ass little dojo?”

“He said something about that, yeah.”

“I still can’t believe he washed up in yer front yard.”

 Mame grew bored with their game of fetch and went back to sleep in the doghouse. Kiryu turned his attention back to Majima. “We clashed at first, but he’s a good man. That was clear.” 

“He said you hit like a truck. I was so proud.” Majima said with a laugh. Kiryu tried not to be distracted by the movement of his throat when he laughed, or the way his lips closed around his cigarette. Majima noticed and shot him a knowing smile. Kiryu had to think for a second before he remembered what they were talking about.

“Saejima held his own. I was impressed.”

“I’ll let him know.” Majima said. 

“If I’d known who he was, I would have called you.”

 Majima’s smile faded. He looked back up at the sky. “He’s… he’s workin’ with one of our lawyers, but he keeps talking about going back to the big house for the good of the clan or some shit.”

“What?” Kiryu asked, leaning forward. 

 Majima brought his foot up on the bench beside him, leaning his arm over his knee. “We got into a big yelling match over it before I left. Well, I yelled. We’ll talk again when I get back.” he looked frustrated and rolled his eye. “He said I should take a few weeks to calm down and clear my head cuz the lawyer bullshit is gonna take months to deal with anyway, but…”

“I’m sorry.”

“It’s fine. It’s not your problem.” 

“No, but it’s yours, and I… I care about you.” 

 Majima didn’t look back right away. There were three birds circling in the sky above now. He took a deep breath, then finally turned his head back to Kiryu and smiled. 

“No sense moping. Not today, anyway. And weren’t we not supposed to be talkin’ about Clan shit?” He stood up and ashed his cigarette. “I need some water.” he said. Majima walked through the doorway, looking back at Kiryu, waiting for him to follow. 

 As soon as Kiryu was sheltered in the privacy of the house, Majima launched himself at him. He grabbed Kiryu’s shirt and kissed him hard, firmly pressing them together the way they had been for most of the morning. Kiryu responded, and held him by his arms, fingers against hard biceps. 

“Things don’t usually turn out so hot for people who care about me.” Majima warned, pressing his forehead against Kiryu’s. 

“I can handle myself. You know that.”

 He didn’t look convinced, so Kiryu kissed him again. His upper lip felt raw from brushing against Majima’s facial hair, but that didn’t matter. “I’m not letting you go,” Kiryu added. 

 Majima smiled, and touched Kiryu’s cheek. “We’ll see, but I like when ya get all determined like this.”

 That response made Kiryu scowl. He knew it wouldn’t be easy, but he wasn’t going to let this week be the last time they saw each other. Majima’s smile grew into something devious. “Ooh, look at that. You’re smouldering. Careful with that look, Kiryu-chan, you’ll get me all hot ‘n bothered again.”

 Kiryu couldn’t hold back a smile. “That wild look you get does something to me too.”

“It does, huh?” Majima raised an eyebrow, looking a little too smug. Kiryu leaned in to kiss him again but Majima pulled back. “Hey, I ain’t done lookin’ at ya.”

 Kiryu gripped his shoulders and walked him backwards into the dining room. Majima’s eye never left his face, trusting that Kiryu wasn’t walking him into the table. He kept that smug look on his face until Kiryu stopped in front of the TV. 

“Sit down.” he ordered. 

 Majima lowered himself slowly down to his knees. Kiryu patted his head and walked away. 

“Hey!” 

“You wanted water. I’m getting you water.” Kiryu said. He left for the kitchen without another word, smiling when he heard Majima’s laugh ring through the house. Kiryu brought two glasses back to Majima, who sat cross-legged on the floor where he left him. 

“Tease.” Majima said as Kiryu sat down next to him. He drank his water quickly, then pushed Kiryu’s down onto the floor and kissed him, mouth cold from the water. Kiryu reached up and touched Majima’s hair. After a moment, Majima pulled him back up to a sitting position. Kiryu had never felt such a comfortable, casual level of intimacy before. Not with anybody.

“So, I’m guessin’ we can’t put off going into town longer than tomorrow. Give me the lowdown on what I’m walkin’ into.” Majima said, leaning into Kiryu’s shoulder, and slapping his hand on his leg as they sat. 

“It’s pretty casual. Nothing like you’re used to, but they’re respectful. No one should give you any trouble.”

“No one? Where’s the fun in that?” Majima said, chuckling when Kiryu frowned. “Calm down, I won’t start anything, but I ain’t goin’ into a family office unarmed either.”

 Kiryu didn’t like that answer, but he could understand it. A high ranking officer couldn’t be caught unaware. “What kind of arms are you talking about?” 

“Just a tanto, and these babies.” he said, flexing his arms. 

“How did you get a dagger on the plane?” Kiryu said, touching his arm again. He couldn’t help himself. 

“I didn’t. Got it shipped to the airport ahead of time.” Majima said, looking pleased with himself, then he grit his teeth. “Probably should have told ya I brought a weapon into yer house, huh?”

“Just make sure if stays in my room. The kids don’t go in there.”

“You’re angry.” Majima said. 

“No, I was just thinking.” he said, taking Majima’s hand, “It’s nothing like Kamurocho, but there are plenty of punks in town who like picking fights. I don’t know why they always approach me but they do.”

 Majima squeezed his hand. “I know why. Because they look at ya and see the biggest challenge of their stupid little life. I saw the same thing the day I laid my one eye on ya.”

“I’m not that special.” Kiryu shrugged. 

“Course ya are.” Majima said, as if it were obvious. “And if yer worried about me going stab-happy, then relax. I’ll follow your lead.”

 Kiryu looked down at their hands, and touched his thumb to the long scar along Majima’s finger. That was what he was worried about. He didn’t need any rumours of stabbings following him around town. “I’m that much of an open book to you, aren’t I?”

“Sometimes. Ya still look a little pissed off, but ya always kinda do.”

“You’re not the first person to tell me that. I’m not trying to look angry.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima grinned. “Ooh, now ya got that intense soulful look that makes all the ladies’ panties fly off.”

“Heh, I’m only concerned with yours.” Kiryu said, then shook his head when Majima’s eye lit up, “uh, n-not that you’re wearing panties-”

“Only on very special occasions.” Majima said with a raised eyebrow. He leaned forward, and the way he sat changed. It was subtle, but noticeable. More feminine, but no less dangerous. 

 Kiryu’s mind was flooded with memories of fishnets and a short skirt, and a flashy wig. “That was a fun night.”

“Didn’t think you’d ever admit that, Kiryu-chan.” His voice was softer, his smile more demure. “The last thing I expected was how well ya played along. I was sure you’d knock me down as soon as ya saw me.”

 Kiryu kissed the scar on his hand and smiled. He’d replayed that night in his mind countless times. The openness with which they’d spoke had made him feel something he’d tried hard to ignore. His physical reaction had been harder to justify.

 Now, here they were, sitting closer than they had that night, talking just as openly and comfortably. “Like I said, I was able to let my guard down that night and really talk to you. To her.” Kiryu said, after thinking carefully about his words. “You could have thrown it all back in my face but you never did. That meant a lot to me.”

 Majima looked surprised. He turned his head away, but still held Kiryu’s hand tight. “This kinda talk usually makes me wanna run for the hills, or at least make a dumbass joke.”

“But not now?”

 He shrugged. Kiryu reached for him, and kept hold of him in a tight hug. The angle was awkward due to the way they were sitting, but he felt Majima’s shoulders relax. He reached under Majima’s shirt and rubbed his back. 

“Shit, Kiryu-chan, you are gonna kill me.” Majima finally said, although he didn’t move. This wasn’t the first time he’d said that. 

“I don’t think you can die from a hug.”

“Depends on who ya try to hug.” Majima replied with a snort. 

“Does that count as a dumbass joke?” Kiryu said, pulling back to look at him. 

“No, that was a smartass joke.” Majima replied, leaning back and putting his legs overtop of Kiryu’s. 

 Kiryu massaged his calf muscles as they returned to their original conversation topic, which was the family they’d be visiting tomorrow. Kiryu explained what to expect, then talked more about what had happened in the last couple of years. It wasn’t an easy topic for Kiryu. There had been a lot of hard times, and he blamed himself for a lot of it, but Majima listened without making jokes, which helped. 

“I thought we could get lunch, then head over to the office. Haruka is going to be shopping after school, so if the timing works out we should meet up with her after we leave.” Kiryu said.

“Didn’t she say she can handle shopping alone?” Majima asked. 

 Kiryu frowned. “She could, but… is that a problem?”

“Nah. It’s fine. We’ll do that.” Majima said.

 Kiryu frowned. Majima was just going to have to handle twenty minutes of grocery shopping. 

“The kids will start heading home in about about fifteen minutes.” Kiryu said. Majima’s legs were still over his lap. He slowly moved them away. 

“Today was somethin’ else.” Majima said, leaning in and kissing his neck. “I’ll keep my hands to myself, but it ain’t gonna be easy.”

 Kiryu’s arms closed around him in what felt like the fiftieth time that day. “Yeah. I know what you mean.”

 They rose to their feet, and went out to the table outside for another smoke while they waited for the kids. Majima buttoned his shirt and put his eyepatch back on. Kiryu was just getting used to him not wearing it. He looked a lot more like the tough yakuza he was, instead of the caring, affectionate person he’d been all morning. 

“Were ya a good student, Kiryu-chan?” Majima asked. 

 Kiryu thought back. “No, not really.  Kazama-san would keep an eye on how we did, so I tried not to let him down, but my grades were never great. I hated bullies, so I ended up getting into lot of fights. Some teachers saw me as a troublemaker because of that.”

 Kiryu was usually more close-lipped about this sort of thing. Majima had him talking more about himself than usual. “How about you?”

“I was the little snot who started the fights. I hit fourteen and couldn’t wait to get out of there. I was top of my class before that, but then shit got boring. I stopped puttin’ the effort in, and dropped out soon after that. A stupid-ass thing to do in retrospect. I could have made something legit of myself.”

“I can’t picture you as a salaryman.” Kiryu said, smiling at the thought. 

 He nodded. “I probably would’ve started fights at an office job too.”

“From what I heard from Yuki, you were a great manager.”

 Majima shook his head. “It’s weird that you two worked together. I couldn’t believe it when Youda told me who she’d roped in to help her.”

 Kiryu would have asked more, but Majima didn’t look thrilled about the topic so he let it go. Soon they heard the voices of children from the far end of the street. Kiryu took a deep breath. He could do this. He could go back to pretending like Majima was just a friend and this morning hadn’t happened. 

Not all the kids were forthcoming about how their school day went, but Taichi more than made up for it, loudly describing every aspect of his day, and every joke he made that got a laugh out of people. 

“Full o’ beans, isn’t he.” Majima said after the boys ran over to the beach to wrestle. 

“Always, but even though he’s obsessed with pro wrestling, he’s never fought at school.” Kiryu said. 

“Ya got every right to be proud of this bunch.” Majima said. “Not one of ‘em’s so much as kicked me in the ankle.”

“Why would they do that?”

 Majima smiled. “Cause that’s what I used to do to the weirdos who hung around with my parents.”

 Kiryu smiled but didn’t pry. From what he’d gathered, Majima hadn’t had an easy childhood. Kiryu was careful not to let any sign of pity on his face. With most people he wouldn’t have to try, but that sharp eye was trained on him, daring him to be sympathetic. It made him chuckle. 

“Yer laughin’ at me?”

“Yeah. There’s nobody else like you.”

 Kiryu was fortunate that Majima hadn’t bothered with shoes, because his laughter got him a kick to the ankle.  

“Be nice.” Haruka said, appearing at his shoulder with a smile on her face. She looked more like her mother every year. It used to cause him pain, but not so much anymore. 

“Sorry, Boss.” Majima said, with faux seriousness. Haruka looked like she liked that title. 

“How was school?” Kiryu asked as she sat down next to him. 

“Not bad. I have a math test tomorrow but I think I’m ready.  Did the girls tell you we want to make dinner tonight? I’ll do all the chopping.”

“That’s nice of you. I’ll be here if you need help.”

 Haruka left to get changed, and Kiryu remembered he had laundry to do. Majima said he’d go to the beach to supervise the wrestling. Kiryu felt a little hesitant about that but he didn’t say no. 

 He got the laundry together and headed to the washing machine. Haruka joined him once she’d changed. 

“He used to be a lot scarier.” she said, breaking the comfortable silence. 

 Kiryu nodded, “I’m glad you’re not bothered by him anymore.”

“No, I’m glad he’s here.”

“Me too.” Kiryu said. Once more he kept his face neutral as to not give himself away. Did he look too happy? And would  that be so wrong? His relationship with Majima had always been complicated. Haruka had never questioned it. He was just happy everyone was getting along. 

“Although he is with the boys now.” Kiryu said, “I should probably make sure he isn’t being too rough.”

 They finished up and he and Haruka went out to the beach. All the kids were watching and laughing. Majima held Koji’s feet as the boy stood in a handstand. 

“Yep, good. Now get one leg down.” Majima said, helping him get back upright. 

“Uncle Kaz! I was upside down!” Koji yelled as they grew close.

“I saw.” Kiryu said. 

Before he could say any more Taichi ran up to him. “Majima-san can do flips! Did you know that?” he asked, sounding accusatory, like this was important information he’d been holding back. 

“Yes, he’s very acrobatic,” Kiryu said. “but he’s not here to do tricks for us.”

 Majima was stretching his legs. He found a baseball and held it up. “Watch this, kiddos.”

 He threw the baseball behind his back in a high arc, then spun around and launched himself into the air, spinning once before kicking the baseball away from them and off to the other side of the beach. He landed and put a hand down to steady himself while the kids cheered. Majima sat down on the sand and took a slight bow. 

“That ain’t a move fer beginners, so don’t go tryin’ it, and don’t do it barefoot either.” he said with a laugh, rubbing the top of his foot. 

 Despite knowing what Majima was capable of, Kiryu was as impressed as the kids. He decided not to tell them that Majima could do a similar move with a dagger. 

 The girls ran back to the house to start dinner, as Majima and Kiryu helped the boys, who all wanted to try handstands. 

 Dinner was simple and good. Kiryu made sure each of his little cooks knew how much he appreciated the work they did. All the kids were trying to help out more lately. That started before Majima’s arrival, and Kiryu was grateful. The boys did the dishes and then the kids took out their work, be it homework or their own art projects. Taichi and Eri posed for the sports manga Koji and Mitsuo had been trying to put together. 

 It felt surreal, the way he could have this pleasant evening with the kids after the very adult morning he’d had with Majima. A gale of laughter filled the room, and Kiryu turned to see that Majima had taped a plastic googly eye over his eyepatch. Kiryu caught his eye, his real eye, and smiled. Majima winked at him. 

 The smile didn’t leave Kiryu’s face for the rest of the night. He rolled out the futons the way he had the last two days. He was just finishing up when Majima returned to the room. He looked at the separated futons and frowned. 

“Need some space?” he asked after shutting the door. 

“That’s the last thing I need.” Kiryu said. “But I thought, if I forgot to put them away tomorrow, and left the door open…”

 Majima smiled. “Gotcha. Ya had me  worried I’d miss out on my favourite pillow.”

 Once he’d finished putting his things away, Majima reached for the light. “Ready?”

 Kiryu nodded, standing next to his futon. 

“Then get that shirt off. I want a last look at ya before the room goes black.”

 He might have felt embarrassed with anyone else, but the request just bolstered his confidence. He pulled his shirt over his head and Majima smirked. “Perfect.”

 The light clicked off. Kiryu could hear soft footsteps approach until Majima’s hand touched his own outstretched arm. 

“There ya are.” Majima said softly, as Kiryu brought him down to the futon with him. Somewhere between the light switch and the futon Majima had thrown off his shirt.

 The first time they laid down like this was approximately twenty-four hours ago. The entire world had changed in that time. As Majima rested his head on his chest, Kiryu’s hand slipped through his hair.

“Can I take this off?” Kiryu said, touching the strap of the eyepatch. 

“Take off anything ya want.” Majima said lazily, as Kiryu undid the tie at the back of his head. Kiryu put the patch aside and ran his hand through his hair again. Majima sighed. “I swear, if I wake up tomorrow and this has all been a dream I’ll be pissed.”

“It’s real.”

“Ya sure?” Majima asked, his hand tracing over Kiryu’s abdominal muscles. “I’ve had a lot of crazy-ass fantasies about ya.. but none of them had me sittin’ up on yer shoulders in a shower. Fuck, Kiryu-chan, I’m never gonna stop thinkin’ bout that.” He sighed, and kissed Kiryu’s chest. “You’re so fuckin’ strong.”

 Kiryu held him closer, feeling flattered and flushed just thinking about the morning. “I’ve never been able to…” he searched for the right words, “let loose like that with anybody.”

“Keep talkin’ like that and I’m not gonna let ya leave the house tomorrow either.”

“That’s tempting,” Kiryu said. “but let’s get it over with tomorrow, the day after that I’m all yours.”

“We’re not leaving first thing are we? Ya said somethin’ about lunch.”

 Kiryu smiled. “That’s true. We’ll have some time in the morning, not a lot, but some.”

“That sounds like a challenge.”

 Maybe this was a dream. It was too easy, too perfect. “It is now.”

 Majima laughed, muffling the sound by burying his face in Kiryu’s chest. “A guy could get used to this, Kiryu-chan.”

“Good.” Kiryu said. He touched Majima’s face, brushing his thumb over his sharp cheekbone. 

 They stayed silent for a while, but it was clear Majima wasn’t any closer to sleeping than he was. Kiryu wondered if he was also thinking about how temporary this visit was. “Majima,” he whispered. 

“Hmm?”

“Kiss me.”

Majima kissed his chest, and worked his way slowly up to his neck. He licked along the line of Kiryu’s jaw before their lips finally touched. Slowly, but firmly and intense as ever. Tender was never a word he thought he’d associate with Majima but that’s how he felt. It’s how he made Kiryu feel too. 

“I won’t get carried away. I just can’t get enough of ya.” Majima said.

“I know what you mean.” Kiryu replied as Majima curled around him, head against his shoulder again. He was struck by the same thought he’d had the night before, that they were made for this.

“I’m no expert on fate...” Kiryu said. He heard a snort of laughter, but Majima let him continue, “but it feels like we’re supposed to be together.”

 There was a pause, then- “Hell, I coulda told ya that years ago.” Majima said with a slight chuckle, making light of that he said without denying the sentiment. 

 Kiryu sighed and Majima held him tighter, pressing his face into Kiryu’s chest. He was so clingy and Kiryu loved it. Loved… he loved him. 

 Kiryu swallowed hard. He loved him. He loved him and he couldn’t stay. Majima would go back to the city, and maybe they’d see each other a few times a year but it would never be enough.

 It also dawned on him that this was not a new feeling, he’d just pushed down his feelings too much to ever be able to admit it before now. He really was in trouble. Worse than in trouble, he was in love. 

“You’re tense again.” Majima said, sounding sleepy. 

“I was just thinking.”

“About me?”

“Yeah.”

“Nothin’ bad, right?”

Kiryu kissed the top of his head. “No. Nothing bad.” 

Chapter 9: Thursday Morning

 Kiryu woke up first, with a right arm that had never been more asleep. Majima was tightly coiled around him, breathing peacefully, head on his shoulder. It was a cooler morning than the previous few, and while the blanket was gone, Majima’s body was a furnace. It was no wonder he was able to walk around with no shirt on in the winter. 

 Kiryu knew he had to move. His alarm would sound in five minutes, and the pins and needles were painful, but he still felt reluctant. He tried to adjust his arm slowly, without disturbing Majima, but as soon as he moved, he heard a yawn. 

“Mornin’,” Majima said, raising his head to look at him. 

 Seeing him in the light only intensified what Kiryu realized the night before. At some point, he’d completely fallen for this strange, violent man. Kiryu smiled, his arm forgotten. “I like waking up with you.”

 Majima smiled blearily. “I’m still dreamin’. Look at those sweet fuckin’ eyes, lookin’ at me like I’m somebody worth lookin’ at.”

“You’re the only one I want to look at.” Kiryu replied. 

 Shock flashed over Majima’s face, before he pressed his head down into Kiryu’s chest and made a muffled noise that made him smile.  

“I don’t want to move,” Kiryu said, “but my arm is dead.”

 Majima shifted off of him and they both sat up. Kiryu tried to shake some circulation back into his fingers. 

“I heard it helps if you move yer head around.” Majima said. He inched his way behind Kiryu, then massaged the back of his shoulders. 

 Kiryu shook his head back and forth as the pins and needles started to calm down. Majima kissed his right shoulder, his spine, then chuckled as he kissed his left shoulder blade.

“What?” Kiryu asked, flexing his hand till the feeling returned. 

“Just makin’ out with the dragon back here.” Majima said, kissing his back again overtop of the tattoo, tracing the dragon’s tongue with his own. 

 It was absurd and childish, but put a smile of his face anyway. “Should I be jealous?”

“Maybe. This baby’s the only one I’d ever go behind your back with.” Majima said.  

 When Kiryu groaned at the bad attempt at a joke, Majima laughed and grabbed him from behind. Kiryu leaned back, and Majima rested his chin on his shoulder. It was still strange to feel this peaceful with Majima. Stranger still to be held in his arms with such care. How could he not have realized sooner how much he needed Majima in his life?

 The alarm sounded, and Kiryu hit the Off button hard like it had offended him. 

 They dressed and carried out the morning similar to the day before. At the breakfast table, Kiryu told Haruka about their plan to meet up with her after school. 

“Oh. I can do the shopping myself. I don’t mind.” she said.

“We’ll be out there anyway. It isn’t a problem.” Kiryu replied. 

 Haruka looked at Majima, who gave a slight shrug. Kiryu wondered if he was missing something. 

“Okay, Uncle Kaz. I’ll take the cart with me.”

 Kiryu didn’t ask questions, and trusted that he’d find out what that was about sooner or later. 

 After breakfast, they saw the kids off to school, then went back inside to do the dishes. 

“How long’s it take to get to town?” Majima asked. 

“It’s a short walk to the train, then it’s only a ten minute ride. There are a few places I want to show you.”

“The kids were talkin’ about gelato yesterday.” Majima said. The dishes were almost done, and he was getting that look in his eye again. 

“If you want gelato I’ll get you some.”

“Such a gentleman, Kiryu-chan, but maybe next time. Today’s on me, grateful houseguest that I am, so if ya want gelato, or if ya wanna order everything off the menu at a restaurant, or get really fuckin’ drunk, I’ll make it happen.”

“None of that’s necessary.” Kiryu said, drying his hands.  

“It ain’t about necessity.” Majima replied. He sounded annoyed, but Kiryu got the  feeling it wasn’t directed at him. “I told ya before, I won’t fuck up yer life here, which means we’re never gonna get to drink a milkshake with two straws and play footsie under the table. But what I can do is spoil ya once in a while, and you’re gonna let me.”

 Kiryu went quiet. He should protest, or tell him he didn’t need that, but something about what he said made Kiryu pause. He’d never been spoiled before, not in the way he was talking about. Majima put a hand on his shoulder. “If it helps, think of it as me makin’ up for all the dumb crap I used to pull.”

 That made him smile, even if he couldn’t yet make eye contact. Majima shook his shoulder and continued, “C’mon, Kiryu-chan, let me be good to you.”

“You’ve been good to me since you got here.”

“And I keep tellin’ ya, I’m just gettin’ started.” Majima said, tugging on his arm. 

 Kiryu was led out of the kitchen and towards the bedroom, excitement building inside him. 

“I didn’t want to get up this morning.” Kiryu said as he shut them inside his room.

“Even with a dead arm? Wake me up if yer arm’s asleep.” Majima said, playfully shoving his shoulder. 

“I’ll remember that for tomorrow.” Kiryu said, shoving him back. He probably shouldn’t have, considering the expression that was creeping over Majima’s face.

 Majima stepped into his space. “Tryin’ to push me around, Kiryu-chan?” 

 Kiryu wasn’t sure how to answer. He didn’t want his room destroyed, but he felt that pull. It had been so long since he’d fought Majima, and he’d be lying to himself if he said he wasn’t tempted. 

“It’s probably not the best idea.”

“It really isn’t,” Majima said. He got close again, “but I like knowing ya want it.”

“I want it.” Kiryu said. He put his hand on the small of Majima’s back and pulled him even closer, “I want you.”

 Majima ground his hips into Kiryu’s. “Ooh, I like hearin’ ya say that.” he said, his voice deep, almost a growl. He grabbed a handful of Kiryu’s shirt and leaned in. He took Kiryu’s bottom lip between his teeth and pulled it into his mouth. Kiryu groaned, open mouthed, as his hands travelled underneath Majima’s shirt. 

 Kiryu’s mouth found Majima’s neck, looking for the pulse point. “I want you.” he repeated, pausing only to get Majima’s shirt off. He kissed him on the mouth again, dipping him deep like the cover of a romance novel. Majima made a delighted sound against his lips and held on tight as Kiryu kept leaning him backwards until he was on the floor. Kiryu knelt beside him, still cradling him in his arms. Majima grinned up at him. 

“Ya don’t gotta be so gentle, Kiryu-chan. It’s me.”

“Maybe on a day where we don’t have to leave the house.” 

“Promise?”

 Kiryu hesitated, while Majima unbuttoned his shirt. “I don’t know what I’m promising. I don’t want to hurt you.”

 Majima looked at him, vulnerability clear on his sharp features. What had he said earlier? That Kiryu was looking at him like he was someone worth looking at?  He saw the same thing on Majima’s face now. 

“You don’t know what you’re doing to me.” Majima whispered, touching his cheek. His voice had that deep, different tone he used when he was serious. “You take every hot moment and turn it into something gooey, and it’s…”

 Kiryu felt his stomach twist. “It’s too much?”

“No… well, kinda? It’s a good feelin’.  Makes me wanna keep ya.” 

“I’m not going anywhere. All you have to do is come back.”

 Majima looked away, but moved his thumb over Kiryu’s collarbone. Kiryu touched his cheek again, pulling his head back towards him. “I want you to come back,” Kiryu said, leaning in and kissing his cheek, “I want you here with me whenever you can.” He kissed his other cheek, then his mouth, not giving him a chance to argue. On instinct, he grabbed Majima’s hand and intertwined their fingers, pressing his hand to the floor as Kiryu pressed his body down overtop of him. 

 Kiryu pulled back to look at him for a second. Majima stared up at him, breathless, serious. “I want you too,” he said, “You know that right? How could ya not at this point?”

 Kiryu squeezed his hand. “I know, but it feels like I have to convince you that this is going to last more than a week.”

 Majima’s jaw clenched. “We don’t have to talk about this right now, do we?” 

“Uh, no. Probably not.” Kiryu said. He was starting to feel foolish, but it bothered him to much to let the subject drop. After everything they’d been through to get to this point, it wasn’t right to let it all go after a few days. 

 Majima took a long look at him. “Alright, fine. Let me up.”

 Kiryu scrambled to get off of him, then reached out and helped Majima into a sitting position beside him. He looked deep in thought, and Kiryu waited, hating that he’d made things awkward again. 

“Look, we both know this doesn’t end with us both livin’ here raising these kids, even if that’s what we both wanted.” Majima said sternly. “People talk. People always talk. All it takes is one rumour to start flying and you’ll get a reputation ya can’t get away from. Then that’s it, they could take it all away. With yer history it’s lucky they let ya take this gig in the first place.”

 Majima looked away before he continued, “My mug hit the papers for a public arrest two months ago. A visit is one thing, but hell, even havin’ me here is a risk. You see that, right? And the last thing I want is to be the guy who stands in the way of you bein’ happy. I’ve done it before and I won’t do it again. Not to you.”

 Kiryu stared at him, even though Majima wasn’t looking back. Nothing he said was wrong, and he’d echoed a lot of his own thoughts. What could he say? There was no easy fix. Majima finally made eye contact, and he didn’t look any happier than Kiryu felt. 

“I’m not trying to be a shithead here, Kiryu-chan, but if I’m not realistic about this now, it’s just gonna hurt worse when I leave.”

 Kiryu nodded. It already hurt. “I still think… I know it won’t be perfect, but I’d rather see you once in a while than not at all.”

“That could get in the way of you and somebody else. Who’s to say there isn’t the perfect gal out there just waitin’ for ya?” Majima kept his tone light but he looked miserable. 

“That’s not what I want. That wouldn’t make me happy.” Kiryu said. “Not when I know what it’s like with you.”

“It’s my third day here.” Majima said flatly. “You don’t know what being with me is like.”

“I’ve known you a lot longer than that, Nii-san.” Kiryu said stubbornly. “What do you want?”

He sighed. “I want you happy, and away from the Yakuza life, and-”

“No, not for me. What would make you happy?”

“Knock it off.” Majima said, standing up. He started pacing the room, eye wide. “Ya ain’t gonna sway me with those sad eyes of yours. I won’t let you fuck up your life cuz of my bullshit.”

“I’m talking about your life.” Kiryu said. He rose to his feet. “Or is it like you said, some woman is out there waiting for you-”

“That ain’t the case and you know it.” he said, still pacing the small space, “Dammit, I shouldn’t have come. This is gettin’ way too outta hand…”

“It’s too late, Nii-san.” Kiryu took his shoulders in his hands. “Majima. Look at me.” Kiryu ordered. Majima’s eye blinked, then finally met his. No secrets, Kiryu thought. “It’s too late. I lov-”

 Majima lunged, kissing him before he finished his sentence, gripping him painfully tight as he attacked his mouth with a dizzying fervour. Kiryu groaned and tried to get his arms back but he was held in place. Their teeth clacked together, but Majima didn’t slow down. His arms were a vice around Kiryu’s back as he swept him off balance at the knees. Kiryu expected to fall, but Majima had him in a tight enough grip that he was guided down to the floor in the same way Kiryu had done to him earlier, but rougher, more intense, more Majima’s style. Kiryu smiled against his lips. 

 He wasn’t sure if the kiss was Majima’s response to what he’d said, or a way to silence him from saying more, but at this point it didn’t matter. That door had been opened, and it couldn’t be shut. Majima knew how he felt, what he wanted, and that he didn’t want this to end. Majima knew all of this and instead of walking away, he’d held onto him even tighter. 

 Kiryu could let the rest go for now, and focus on what was in front of him. On the burning hot body climbing on top of him. Majima straddled his thighs, finally freeing his arms. Kiryu rubbed his hands on the outsides of Majima’s legs, gripping the taut thigh muscles.

 Their mouths never lost contact, and Kiryu had no problem with that. He was lost to instinct and pleasure. Happily trapped under a wild man who managed to undo his pants and shove them down with one hand. An impressive display of balance and flexibility. Kiryu moaned into his mouth as Majima fought with the shorts he was wearing. Kiryu didn’t let him struggle for long, helping to shimmy them both out of the rest of their clothes with minimal breaking of the kiss. Kiryu was on fire and getting lightheaded. He finally had to tear his mouth away to breathe.

 As soon as he did, Majima placed a finger over his mouth, hunched over him like a wildcat. Ah, so he was being silenced. Majima looked fiercely at him, and that only made him burn stronger, and harder. He kept eye contact and took Majima’s finger into his mouth, sucking hard. Majima’s hips responded, and he made an almost pained sound before he sat back a little and inelegantly spat into his hand. Another vulgar action that shouldn’t have been so hot, but made Kiryu ache with desire. He sucked hard on Majima’s finger. 

“There was this one night I found ya, in the back allies of Pink Street.” Majima said in that low, dangerous tone. “Wasn’t even lookin’ for a fight, I was goin’ to that little ramen joint I knew ya liked.”

 Kiryu nodded but stayed silent, finger still in his mouth. Majima took both their cocks in his other hand, holding them against each other. Kiryu grunted to keep from biting down.

“Ya saw me, and nodded. I didn’t have to say nothin’. Ya just walked to the darkest part of that filthy alley and knew I’d follow ya, like I always did.”

 Kiryu watched. Majima wasn’t done talking, and put a second finger into Kiryu’s mouth, which he gladly accepted. 

“I didn’t even use a weapon. It was a down and dirty fist-fight.”

 Kiryu’s eyebrows raised. He knew exactly which fight he was talking about. Majima removed his fingers from Kiryu’s mouth and ran a wet digit over his lips. He gave Kiryu a look that warned him to stay quiet, so he nodded. Majima nodded back, and with the same finger, he trailed a straight line from his jaw down to his chest, till both Majima’s hands were around their cocks. Kiryu held back a moan. He had no idea something like this could make him feel this way. He had to struggle to concentrate. 

“I had the upper hand at first, cause ya hadn’t been out long. Then, for the first time, I felt ya go all out, and I got a taste of what I really wanted.” Majima said, his voice strained. 

 Kiryu nodded again. That night was filled with complicated feelings. Majima leaned forward and kissed him, increasing the pressure of his hands. “Stay.” he said into Kiryu’s ear, making him shiver. 

 Then he was gone, and Kiryu took the opportunity to catch his breath. His body was humming with the electric feeling that always came from being this close to Majima. The night he was describing might have been the first time that budding electricity fully sparked to life. Kiryu closed his eyes at the thought. 

 He opened his eyes again when he felt Majima’s hand under his head, guiding it onto a pillow. He nodded again, grateful. Majima took his hands and placed them on the pillow above his head. “Stay.” he whispered again, fuelling his desire. Kiryu rocked his hips, willing Majima to keep going. A cap opened, and the faint smell of cherries hit Kiryu’s nose.

“Where was I?” Majima asked climbing back on top of him. Kiryu nearly answered but stopped himself. Majima smirked. His hands, now coated in his cherry-flavoured lube, gripped both of their hard shafts again. Kiryu felt Majima’s cock twitch against his own and he grit his teeth to keep himself from making a noise as Majima slid his hands around, slathering every inch of both of them. Kiryu could barely contain himself. All he was doing was touching and talking to him, and it was driving him wild. More so than anyone else ever had. 

“You let loose on me that night. It was beautiful. After gettin’ walloped in the gut, ya got me right up against the wall…” Majima moaned and squeezed his hands, “and then I saw somethin’ in those eyes that wasn’t anger or fear, but somethin’ else.”

 Kiryu nodded quickly. It was panic he’d felt that night. Panic because brawling in an alley had never turned him on before. He’d tried to justify it. He told himself he hadn’t stood so close to anyone in a decade, and anybody’s breath on his neck would have had the same effect. But it wasn’t just anybody. He’d tried so hard to ignore it, to forget about the whole night. Majima had never mentioned it before now.

“You knocked me on my ass and ran off. I sat in that disgusting alley for a long time, but I didn’t give a shit ‘cause I knew ya felt that fire. Knew on some level we felt the same thing.”

 Kiryu nodded yet again, and Majima stared intently down at him. Kiryu wanted to tell him he loved him, and a hundred other things Majima would definitely resist. Instead he just looked, and let himself feel, hoping Majima understood. He must have, at least a little, because he leaned down and kissed him again, still gripping them both tight.

 As Majima pulled his face away, Kiryu bent his legs. He reached for Majima’s abdomen and pushed till Majima arched his back against the tops of Kiryu’s knees, his head all the way back. The flexibility was impressive, and Kiryu felt himself harden further at the sight. He then grasped his hand along with Majima’s around both their lengths, moving together in sync. Majima, taking laboured breaths, kept talking. 

“That fight… I couldn’t get it outta my head. I went home and wanted, fuck, I wanted this. Everything yer givin’ me now.” Majima closed his eye and bit his lip. “I  thought about ya all the time. I burned for ya, I wanted ya so bad.”

 Kiryu tried to keep himself from moaning, breathing hard through gritted teeth. He felt a desperation that only Majima had ever made him feel. 

“And now, fuck,” Majima said, sounding just as desperate, pumping them both fast between their hands, “now.. ya gotta know that anything you’re feeling… I’m with ya. I see it in yer eyes and feel it too. I do, I just, I can’t… ah, fuck, Kiryu!”

 Majima’s voice shook as he spoke, turning from words to a long moan as his hips bucked. They came nearly at the same time onto Kiryu’s chest. Majima leaned all his weight back as he gasped for air wringing every last drop out of them with shaking hands.

The room was silent save for their breathing, and the distant, ever-present waves. Kiryu reached out to the side but was too far away to grab anything.  Majima found the shirt Kiryu had been wearing and carefully wiped them off, then rolled off of Kiryu and onto his back, limbs spread wide. 

 Not sure what else to do, Kiryu simply reached out and took Majima’s hand, which he squeezed in return and brought to his lips. 

“You never half-ass anything, do ya.” Majima said calmly, staring at the ceiling, Kiryu’s hand still against his lips. 

“You did most of the work there.” Kiryu said. 

“Not what I’m talkin’ bout.”

 Kiryu watched him, trying to read his expression. He knew he probably shouldn’t have dropped such a heavy declaration so soon, but he was determined not to be ashamed about it. Majima didn’t look unhappy. Beyond that, he could only guess what he was thinking.

 Kiryu sat up and stretched. Majima sat up a second later and grabbed him into a hug. Kiryu couldn’t help hauling him into his lap, burying his face into Majima’s hot shoulder. After a moment Majima pulled back enough to look at him. He touched the side of Kiryu’s cheek. “Are we good?”

 Kiryu nodded. “We’re good. Nobody’s ever… yeah, we’re good.”

“Good.” Majima said, sounding relieved. He kissed him, then touched their foreheads together, hand resting on the back of Kiryu’s head.

 He knew there were words Majima might never say, just as much as he knew the future still hung over their heads. He was content to leave things as they were for now. He wouldn’t waste any more time worrying about it today. 

 Majima sighed and looked beyond Kiryu to check the clock radio. “All right. Let’s go be tough guys.”

Chapter 10: Thursday Afternoon

 The shower was warm and soothing, even though it was lonelier than the last one. They’d agreed to shower separately, as it would take less time. Yesterday had been the longest shower Kiryu had ever taken. 

 When Kiryu returned to their room, it was almost as if a different man stood in front of him. Majima wore black slacks under a shiny, dark purple dress shirt. His sleeves were rolled up to his elbows, and the buttons were undone enough to show the edges of his chest tattoos. The eyepatch he wore had a snake on it, and he was closing the clasp of a thin gold chain. 

“Wow.” Kiryu said, taking in the sight of him. 

Majima smiled and held out a tanto. “What d’ya think?” 

 Kiryu took it. This wasn’t his usual dagger. It was bright red, with a white snake painted around sheath. Kiryu drew the blade. He wasn’t the knife enthusiast Majima was, but he could tell it was well balanced, although almost too short to be called a tanto. “Elegant and dangerous. It suits you.”

“Yer gonna make me blush, Kiryu-chan.” Majima crooned as Kiryu handed the sheathed tanto back. Majima spun it in his hand before putting it in his pocket. He stood differently, more upright, more powerful. Kiryu felt too casual in his favourite red patterned shirt.

“Should I change?”

“Nah. It looks better for the locals if you don’t look like a family man. You’re just a civilian with a nasty old patriarch as a friend.”

 That didn’t seem entirely true, but he made enough sense that Kiryu nodded.

“And this way I get to stare at yer guns.” Majima added, squeezing his bicep. 

 Kiryu flexed, and Majima’s mouth was instantly attached to his arm. His goatee tickled enough that Kiryu pulled away with a soft chuckle. “We’ll never leave if you keep that up.”

“It’s too easy to stall around ya.”

 Majima put on his sunglasses, black gloves, and his steel-toed shoes and they left. He hummed as they walked towards the station, staying close to Kiryu’s side without touching him. 

 Kiryu pointed to a street three blocks away from the house. “The kids’ school is just over there. Haruka has to take the train, but the rest of them are all down that street.”

“Are there any bad teachers who need a good scare?” Majima asked, with a downright evil smile. He pat his pocket, which must have been deep because his dagger didn’t show. 

“Not now. There was an issue last year with one of them, but we got it straightened out.” Kiryu said.

“If that changes, let me know.” Majima said, more seriously. 

 The train ride was uneventful, and they rode in a nearly empty car. Majima sat next to Kiryu, as he told the story about the jerk of a teacher he had to deal with last year, which genuinely angered Majima. 

“What a load of crap. I hate snivelling ass-weasels like that. Pickin’ on little kids is about as low as it gets.” he said, unconcerned with the other passengers, who looked a little nervous.

 They stepped off the train and walked down the street. It wasn’t long before Kiryu felt eyes staring in their direction. He tried to ignore it. Majima waved to an old lady who was looking at him, and her expression softened as she waved back. 

“I want to go to the diner over here. Their whole menu is Okinawan.  I think you’ll like it.”

“Ya don’t wanna go somewhere nicer than a diner?”

“No.” Kiryu said.

 Majima shrugged. “Your call, Kiryu-chan, but get somethin’ pricey at least. Somethin’ ya wouldn’t normally get.”

“Deal.”

 As soon as they were handed menus Majima zeroed in on the sashimi platter. For a moment Kiryu worried he was going to order too much food, but aside from that platter, they ordered a large but reasonable amount. 

“Did ya get to eat with Saejima?” Majima  asked after their food arrived. 

“A couple of times. I wasn’t sure if it was his time away that made him eat so fast or if he-”

“No, he’s always eaten like he hasn’t seen food in a week.” Majima said with a snort of laughter. “The most generous guy in the world, but try to take something off his plate and he’ll break yer wrist.”

“I’ll remember that.” Kiryu said, “I like him.”

“He thinks pretty highly of you. You’re a lot alike, ya know. You’re both too stubborn for yer own good. And you’re both too… good for yer own good.”

“Is that a compliment?”

“Most of the time.” grumbled Majima. 

 Kiryu remembered what he’d said about Saejima possibly going back to prison. It was a noble idea, but he wasn’t about to tell Majima that. 

“Ya know somethin’ real fucked up?  They didn’t give him any of the letters I wrote. Not a godamn one. Wouldn’t let him take a phone call, or see his own sister. He said he had buddies on the inside but that’s not the same. It’s inhumane.”

 Kiryu nodded. “Yeah. That’s really isolating.” 

“Right. You’d know that better than me. They let ya have letters at least, right?  You were in the local joint.”

“Yeah, but..” Kiryu paused, he hadn’t talked about this in a long time. Had he ever? Would it sound like he was just wallowing? “I only ever had one letter.”

“In ten years?” Majima yelled, leaning forward in his chair. Their waiter looked up, but Majima waved him away. He lowered his voice, “Shit, Kiryu-chan, if I’d known I woulda sent ya all kinds of stuff. Ya could’ve had thirty Majima Family pen pals.”

 Kiryu shrugged. “I was expelled, remember. I figured that was part of the reason.”  

Majima scowled. Kiryu imagined getting dozens of letters from men he’d never met. That would have drawn too much attention, but it would have been at least more interesting. He was going to say so, but Majima still looked angry. Instead, Kiryu pushed his bowl of pork belly across the table. 

“Try this, it’s good.” he said. 

 Majima glared at the bowl and huffed out a breath. He took a piece before pushing the bowl back. He nodded at Kiryu and forced a smile.

“All of this is good. You were right about this place.” Majima said, slouching back into his chair. 

“There’s a little soba place we should go to next time. I’ll point it out later. It’s around all the little tourist shops.”

 Majima smiled, anger quelled. “I should grab some souvenirs for my boys. I like gettin’ them stupid presents and watchin’ their reactions.”

“What? Why?”

“Ya can tell a lot about a guy by the way he reacts to a shitty little gift from his  superior. Is he gonna lie to yer face about it, call ya out and risk his position, or just be happy he got somethin’ at all.”

 He spoke as if this were common knowledge, and not a strange mind game to play on his employees. Kiryu had never approved of his strange, often hyper-violent methods, but somehow Majima inspired loyalty like few others. “That’s pretty smart, actually.”

“Ya gotta know who’s gonna be honest with ya, Kiryu-chan. That’s the best way to keep from gettin’ stabbed in the back.”

 Kiryu nodded. Majima hated liars. He’d known that for a long time, which he’d always found strange considering his loyalty to Shimano, who used to lie through his teeth on a regular basis. 

 They finished their food and Majima rushed to pay before Kiryu could think about arguing. Kiryu stood up and walked towards the door to find the young woman at the front counter giggling at something Majima had said.

After they walked back out on the sidewalk, Majima smiled. “Ya think she was into me?” 

“Clearly.” Kiryu said.  

“And ya ain’t mad?” he asked in a low voice, clearly joking. 

 Kiryu shook his head. “Why? I can’t blame her.”

 Majima laughed loudly, which caught the attention of a group of men in bright shirts. Kiryu scowled at them until they were across the street. 

“That’s a Grade A glare ya got.” Majima said approvingly. 

“Heh, I’ve had a lot of practice.” Kiryu said.

“Don’t I know it. I’ve been on the other end of that look a hundred times.”

“Only when you deserved it.” 

 Majima lowered his sunglasses, eye shining in the sunlight, “Yer sayin’ it was more than a hundred?”

 It took effort for Kiryu to not grin like an idiot. He let his mouth twitch into a small smile as Majima grinned enough for both of them. It was strange to walk down these streets together when Majima was on top of him just over an hour ago. The most difficult thing about it was resisting the urge to grab him and pull him away to some dark, secluded corner. 

 Kiryu smiled more widely at the thought. He’d tell that to Majima later. He was going to be exhausted by the end of this visit and he wasn’t upset about that at all. 

 They walked through the gift shops, Majima pausing to hold up the tackiest trinkets to show Kiryu. He didn’t buy any of them, saying he’d come back and get a haul when he was about to leave, but he did stop to get a set of swimming goggles, cigarettes, and a bag of candy for the kids that he convinced Kiryu would be a good idea. 

 They then headed for Awamorigura, the liquor store, because Majima insisted on bringing a bottle of “somethin’ good”. 

“Kiryu-san, hello!” the owner said, waving them over.

“Hey, Matsushima-san,” Kiryu said, “this is my friend, Majima.”

“Any friend of the man who saved my business is always welcome. Please come in, Majima-san.”

 Majima’s eyebrows raised over the top of his sunglasses. “I wanna hear that story. We’re also lookin’ for somethin’ that makes a good first impression.”

 Majima examined the shelves while the shopkeeper explained how he and Kiryu once dug up a century-old family treasure from the beach and helped him out of debt. 

“Your friend is one of the finest men I know, Majima-san.” he finished, much to Kiryu’s embarrassment. 

“That’s Kiryu for ya, always helpin’ people outta jams. Don’t think he could stop if he tried.” Majima said. 

 Kiryu appreciated the praise, but it was too much. “Thanks,” he said without looking at either of them, “how about that one?”

 The shopkeeper walked behind the cash register to pick up the bottle Kiryu pointed out. “One of my finest. This would make an excellent gift. It’s on the expensive side, but it’s worth it. Your usual discount applies, of course.”

 Majima picked up the bottle. “This works.”

 The shopkeeper nodded. “It wouldn’t be an appropriate gift, but may I show you what I’m just about to put on the shelves?”

 When Kiryu nodded, the excited man hurried to the back room, returning immediately with a large, wide bottle filled with an amber alcohol. Inside was a dead snake. 

“Hmm.” Majima said.

“I’ve heard of this.” Kiryu said, “it’s…interesting.”

“Isn’t it?  It’s called Habushu. I’ve been working on them for a long time. But maybe not the best gift for today.”

“Nah, we’ll stick with this one.” Majima said, pushing the bottle he’d chose across the counter. After paying, they said polite goodbyes and left. 

 As soon as they were out of sight and earshot, Majima grimaced. 

“Didn’t like that, huh?” Kiryu asked. 

“Disgusting. I had that shit once and it ain’t a good memory.”

“Oh.. uh, sorry.” Kiryu said. 

“It’s fine. The venom makes yer tongue go numb, and it smells and tastes what ya’d expect dead snake to taste like. At least the one he made me drink did.”

“Who?” Kiryu asked, but he realized there was only one person he knew who had ever been able to tell Majima what to do. “Shimano?”

Majima nodded, “Ya know, knowin’ him, it had probably gone bad or something, considering how sick I felt after. Rat bastard.”

 This wasn’t the place to ask questions, but a dozen flew through Kiryu’s mind. “I never liked him.”

“Nobody did. Is that the place?” Majima said, taking off his sunglasses and pointing towards the office. 

“Yeah. Are you ready?”

“Nah, let’s go home.” Majima said, sauntering towards the office with a smile. He walked with that dangerous swagger Kiryu hadn’t seen since he’d arrived. This was Majima in business mode. 

“Be nice. I like these guys.” Kiryu said as they arrived at the door. Majima nodded but didn’t reply. Out of his pocket he pulled out his family pin and attached it to his lapel. 

 It turned out Kiryu didn’t need to worry. Business Majima was also Majima at his most charming. Patriarch Nakahara greeted them with open arms, especially after Majima presented the liquor. 

“Let’s open this up and have a drink! Mikio, get some glasses.” he said, placing the bottle down at his table. 

“So long as we don’t overdo it. We’re meetin’ Haruka-chan after this and I doubt she can drag us both home.” Majima said, taking a seat. 

 Nakahara laughed, “Don’t be so sure. We all know how strong she is, eh, Saki?”

 Saki had just peeked her head in the door, and shyly waved at Kiryu. 

“Finished with your lessons already?  Why don’t you go draw outside while I talk to our guests. I’ll make sure you have time to say hi to Kiryu-san before they take off.” the patriarch said kindly. 

 Saki gave a barely audible “okay” before leaving. After a moment, she appeared in the yard on the other other side of the window, Kiryu saw her sit down with her art supplies. 

“Kiryu-han gave me the gist of yer operation here. I’m impressed.”

“That’s quite the compliment from someone with your reputation, Majima-san.”

“Heard of me, have ya?  Don’t believe all the rumours, but definitely believe a few of ‘em.”

 Nakahara laughed as Mikio appeared with glasses. Mikio was exceedingly respectful and didn’t say much, but it was clear he was terrified of Majima. 

 The afternoon went more smoothly than Kiryu could have hoped. Nakahara was gracious and kind, and Majima was respectful and funny. The two men were quickly at ease with each other. They swapped stories about the good old days, compared tattoos, and discussed the managerial side of being a leader of men. 

 Kiryu thought back to the weeks before he went to jail in ‘95. He’d been trying to learn all these things as he prepared to run his own family. Majima had warned him he was too soft, and listening to the two of them trade several brutal stories made him wonder just how different his life would have been if only a few things had been different. How different of a man he’d be as a patriarch, or a chairman. He pictured himself sitting in the chairman’s seat, Majima as his captain, with the whole clan under their guidance. Money wouldn’t be an issue. Haruka would want for nothing. 

 There was no use dwelling. Life had finally hit an upswing. His house and land were secure, he had friends to turn to, and now he had Majima. Kiryu took a drink and smiled to himself. 

“So I come crashin’ through the whole group, slide to a stop, and I’m sure, just dead sure I ran him down.” Majima was saying, “but of course he’s just standin’ there, in the middle of a hundred guys, not a scratch on him, barely even sweatin’, with a giant pile of knocked out guys behind him. So we hightail it outta there. I wanted to stop for burgers but you know Kiryu-chan. He’s all business.”

 Nakahara laughed. “He was a lot more modest when he told me that story, but you’re right. That’s just the way he is.”

“We should probably get going,” Kiryu said after checking the time, “Haruka will be getting out of school about now.”

“Of course. Thank you boys for stopping by. It did me good to talk to some big city legends.” Nakahara said. 

“I respect what ya do here. Keep it up.” Majima said. Kiryu smiled and they headed for the door, but not before Saki appeared again. 

“I hope to see you soon, Saki. The kids have been asking about you.” Kiryu said. 

 Saki smiled, and gave a weak “thank you”. She showed Kiryu and Majima the sketch she was working on of the back yard, and looked embarrassed when they praised it. 

 Majima complimented the portrait of Kiryu he’d seen back at the house, and Saki looked too overwhelmed to answer. Majima just smiled, looking more caring than he had since they left. He really was good with children. It was clear to Kiryu now that it wasn’t just for his benefit.

 When they left, Saki squeaked out a “goodbye” and half hid behind Nakahara, who saw them out.  

“It takes a lot for her to talk in front of a new person. She’s made a lot progress from when I first met her.” Kiryu said after they’d shut the door behind them. He’d told Majima her story the day before. 

“Goin’ through hell like that can fuck up a person in all kinds of ways. Poor little gal.”

 They headed for the market. Majima removed his pin and put his sunglasses back on. 

“That went really well.” Kiryu said, sneaking a glance at him. 

“Didja think I was gonna start shit with that nice old man?” Majima asked. 

“No, but still. It was important to me. Thank you.”

 They arrived outside of the market’s  entrance in time to see Haruka walk up with their collapsible two wheeled cart.

“Hey, Boss. How was school?” Majima asked, making her laugh. 

 Kiryu took the cart from her as she pulled out her shopping list. 

“Good. Did you come from the Ryudo office?”

“Yep. Nice guys.” 

 They walked into the market together. Over Haruka’s shoulder, Kiryu saw that the list she held wasn’t in her neat handwriting, but a messy scrawl. Before long, she and Majima started loading way more groceries than usual into the cart. Haruka paid at the first market stall. Before they moved to the next one, he noticed the large wad of cash in her wallet. 

“You’ve been conspiring.” Kiryu said to both of them. Haruka smiled.

“Don’t scowl.” Majima said, loading a huge package of barbecued pork into the cart, “This is happening. It’s too late to stop it.”

 Kiryu was touched. Majima had said he was going to spoil him today. Buying groceries for the house was the most thoughtful way he could have done that. It took a lot of effort not to hug them both in the middle of the market. He wished he were better with words so he could express his appreciation. He settled for dragging around the cart as the other two loaded it to the brim. 

 They left the market, only to be greeted outside the door by the group of men in bright shirts from earlier. 

“We saw you leaving the Ryudo office, which is a good enough excuse as any to beat your sorry asses.” the one in front said. He wore an ugly green shirt and looked like he was the leader. 

 Majima laughed. “Six against two, eh?” he said as he took his sunglasses off, making two of the men balk at his eyepatch. He touched Haruka’s shoulder. “That’s nothin’. C’mon Haruka-chan, let’s give ‘em hell.”

“Absolutely not.” Kiryu snapped. 

“What? She’s gotta learn sooner or later. You watch the cart, Kiryu-chan.”

 Kiryu was unsure if he was joking till Haruka laughed and took the cart out of his hands. 

“That’s better.” Kiryu said, patting her head and stepping in front of her. 

“Just yankin’ yer chain.” Majima said to him. 

“Excuse me!” the man in the green shirt whined, “I’m serious here!”

“Yeah, yeah.” Majima said, completely unconcerned. He handed his sunglasses to Haruka and turned to Kiryu. “Ya know I wouldn’t do that, right? She needs to learn how to make a fist before she starts punching idiots.”

“She doesn’t need to be punching anyone.” Kiryu said.

“Oy!” The leader yelled. He pulled out a small dagger and drew it from its sheath dramatically. 

“Tch, mine’s bigger.” Majima said. He tapped his pocket but didn’t draw his own. The man lunged and Majima stepped out of the way with such ease that the man might as well have been moving in slow motion. He tripped over Majima’s outstretched foot and staggered forward, right into Kiryu’s fist. 

 After knocking the first man down, the rest charged. Majima let out a piercing laugh, and Kiryu had to work to keep the smile off his face. They flanked Haruka. Majima launched into a flurry of spinning kicks as Kiryu punched his way through the attacking men.

 It was barely a fight. Amateurs in a gang who were no match for either of them. Kiryu was relieved to see that Majima wasn’t going overboard. None of them were armed except the first one. When the sixth man fell, Majima calmly walked up to the leader, who still laid on the ground. He placed his shoe on top of the man’s hand and leaned forward till he let the dagger go. Majima then dropped into a crouch beside him. He nonchalantly scratched his chest, showing more of his tattoo. The man’s eyes widened. 

“I think I’ll keep this.” Majima said, picking up the dagger and spinning it in front of the man’s face. He held out his other hand and the man shakily passed him the sheath. “Be glad it’s the only thing I’m taking with me.” He sneered, “Now, if you or yer boys get anywhere close to these two civilians again, I’m gonna show up where ya live and-”

 He leaned in close to the frightened man. Kiryu couldn’t hear the end of that sentence, but based on the reaction it was a powerful threat. Majima stood as the other men offered pitiful apologies. Kiryu couldn’t take his eyes away. 

“What a disappointing show.” Majima said loudly over his shoulder as the three of them walked away. “I could’ve done that in my sleep. I hope ya appreciate how much I held back.”

“Yeah. Thanks.” Kiryu said, pulling the overloaded cart behind him. He felt the same disappointment, but didn’t want to admit that in front of Haruka. He wanted to keep fighting, and didn’t dare look Majima in the eye because he knew he’d give himself away.

“I’m glad you’re on our side, Majima-san.” Haruka said, walking in-between them. 

“Thanks, kiddo. Me too.” he replied, sounding pleased with himself. He took his sunglasses back from her. 

“Are you okay after that?” Kiryu asked her. 

“I wasn’t worried at all.” Haruka replied, smiling at him. She really was getting so tall. “But I would like to learn how to fight.”

“Haruka, we’ve talked about this.” Kiryu said. He didn’t want her in any more trouble than she’d already been in. 

“Everybody should know how to defend themselves.” Majima said. 

“Now isn’t the time for this conversation.” Kiryu said. The other two fell silent, but he could feel their eyes on him. “We’ll talk more at home.” he said in a softer tone. 

 Haruka nodded, Majima shrugged, and Kiryu awkwardly shuffled the cart through the turnstile at the station. 

 The train home was crowded, and they had to stand, keeping the cart between the three of them. Haruka laughed at Majima’s bad jokes while Kiryu kept an eye on the other passengers. He didn’t like being packed in this closely with strangers. It made him wish he could afford a car so he could bring Haruka to and from school. 

 Kiryu took a breath. Despite the crowd, he felt safer with Majima next to him. They hadn’t broken a sweat in that fight. If he’d been fighting by himself he would have been worried about one of them getting too close to Haruka, but it had been fine, and Haruka was unfazed. 

 Most of the other passengers got off at the station before theirs. Kiryu breathed a little easier. 

“Can I ask why you always wear gloves, Majima-san?” Haruka asked.

 Majima answered by backing up and spinning backwards into one of his breakdancing poses, stopping only when the two daggers started to fall out of his pocket. 

“It makes that sorta thing easier.” he said with a grin. 

“The kids will be sad they missed that.” Haruka said. 

“I’ll show ‘em when we get back. It’s easier on solid ground anyway.”

 He met Kiryu’s eye, making him quickly look away. People were staring, and Kiryu didn’t want to get caught looking at Majima with the admiration he felt. 

Chapter 11: Thursday Evening

 The walk back to the house was peaceful. Haruka went to change, and Majima helped Kiryu unload the groceries. The kids filtered in and out of the kitchen to say hi to them. At one point, when they were alone, their hands touched. Majima grabbed his hand, squeezed it, and let it go just as quickly. Kiryu couldn’t help himself, and let himself finally stare into Majima’s eye. 

“You were great today.” Kiryu said in a low voice. 

 Majima smiled, “There are too many kids runnin’ in and out of here for me to say what seein’ ya fight did to me. Even that sad excuse for a fight.”

 Kiryu nodded. He glanced down to Majima’s lips. “I know what you mean.”

“Cut that out, I can’t handle it.” Majima said with a laugh, shoving Kiryu’s shoulder.

 Kiryu tore his eyes away and put the bag of candy Majima bought in a high cupboard where he kept his bottle of whiskey. 

“Keepin’ it for yourself?” Majima asked. 

“No, but if the kids see it before dinner that’s all they’re going to want.”

“Ya probably only got a couple more years left before the older ones get tall enough to reach up there.”

“That’s a scary thought.”

 Kiryu closed the fridge after they’d filled it with everything they’d brought home. “This is way too generous. Is there a plan for all this food?”

“Yep. Haruka and I got it all worked out. We’re makin’ dinner tonight.”

 A feeling of intense warmth spread through Kiryu’s body. “Do you like to cook?”

“I’m no chef but I got a few specialities. I used to know this couple who ran weapons out of a Chinese restaurant. They taught me how to make vegetables taste good and a bunch of other stuff. I make a mean pork fried rice, you’ll see.”

 Kiryu was once again touched. The whole situation felt as unreal as everything else that had happened in the last few days. 

 Eri ran in, interrupting his thoughts. “Is that a snake or a worm?” she asked. She pointed at Majima’s eyepatch, before clasping her hands over her mouth, remembering her manners a second too late. 

 Majima just smiled. “It’s a white snake. It matches the one right here.” he said thumping the side of his chest. 

 Eri looked confused. Majima looked to Kiryu for approval. 

“Majima-san has tattoos like I do.” Kiryu explained. 

“Like Uncle Rikiya?  He had a big snake.”

“Yeah.” Kiryu said. He felt the usual pang of guilt that came when anyone mentioned that name. 

 Majima undid a button and pulled his shirt to the side enough to show one of his snakes. Eri looked with the seriousness of an art appraiser. “He looks mean.”

“Yeah, he’s a mean old snake, but he can be nice too.”

 Eri nodded, happy with that explanation. “The flowers are pretty.”

“Thanks, scamp.”

 Eri smiled and ran out of the room as fast as she came in. Majima buttoned his shirt and looked over at Kiryu. “What?”

“I’m still not used to this side of you.”

“Ya thought I was gonna what, yell at her?  At her age I never woulda been so polite.”

“Heh, no. I’m just saying it’s nice.”

 Majima nodded, looking thoughtful as he leaned against the kitchen counter. Kiryu remembered how good Majima had looked sitting on top of the counter with his legs wrapped around his back. Had that only been yesterday?

“How freaked out d’ya think they’d be if they saw what’s under here?” Majima asked, pointing to his eyepatch. 

“I-I don’t think they’d be upset.” Kiryu said, surprised. In all the years he’d known him, Majima had never removed his eyepatch before yesterday. Now he wanted to show the kids? “They’d have questions, but they wouldn’t be freaked out.”

“Okay.” he said. His thoughtful expression turned devious. “You wanted that fight to keep goin’, didn’t ya.”

 Kiryu nodded. 

“If yer still thinkin’ about that wrestling idea, then we oughta practice, right?”

“Yeah. Maybe tomorrow? Not in front of the kids.”

 Majima raised an eyebrow, clearly thinking about a different kind of ‘wrestling’. “Great idea.”

 Kiryu smiled, he couldn’t help himself. He would need to be careful or he’d start blushing like a fool. He had to turn away, and as soon as he did Majima laughed. 

 The afternoon held the same happy peace as the last couple of days. The kids were a little more argumentative with each other, more like they usually were when Majima wasn’t around. Kiryu couldn’t expect them to stay on their best behaviour forever, but he did his best to keep the fighting to a minimum. 

 After being shooed out and slapped with a spatula by Haruka and Majima respectively when he tried to enter the kitchen, Kiryu resigned himself to waiting for dinner with the kids out in the front yard. They looked for shapes in the clouds, kicked a ball around, and laughed at Mame, who spun around in circles trying to catch his tail. 

 Dinner was the best they’d had in a long time. Majima hadn’t exaggerated, his pork fried rice was as good as any restaurant. There was a lot of excitement and laughter, and when they were finished, Majima clapped his hands together to draw their attention. 

“Listen up, guys and gals. This is a limited time offer. Only available tonight because of how good you’ve all been since I got here.” Majima said. It made Kiryu apprehensive but he stayed quiet. Majima continued, pointing to his face, “Ya get five minutes of eye questions. No promises I’ll answer, but ya can ask whatever ya want and I’ll be honest. Deal?”

 The kids nodded.

“Maybe they should raise their hands like in school?” Haruka offered. Several hands shot up. 

 Kiryu was surprised Majima was allowing this, but all he seemed to do lately was surprise him. 

 Majima pointed to Eri. “You first.”

“The eyepatch has a snake on it. Not a worm.” she said proudly. He waited for the question, but she was finished. 

 Majima nodded. “That’s right. Who else?”

 Taichi’s hand was as high as he could get it. Majima pointed at him. “Is the eye broken or is it gone?”

“It’s gone. You.”

 Mitsuo spoke next, “Is it harder to play baseball?”

“At first, it sure was. Took a lot of practice to get good again. Yer turn, small fry.”

 Izumi nodded. “Um, why don’t you have two eyes?”

 Majima looked at Kiryu, then back to the innocent face of the youngest girl. Majima thought hard about the answer. 

“It got hurt, and I couldn’t use it anymore.”

“How did it get hurt?” Izumi asked, eyes full of concern. 

“A, hmm… a very bad man took it.” 

 Several of the kids gasped. Kiryu frowned. Maybe they should have talked more about this ahead of time. 

“But that man is gone now, right?” Ayako asked, clearly for the younger kids’ sake. 

“Long gone. He won’t be hurtin’ anybody else, so nobody ever has to worry about that.” Majima said. Izumi looked like she was going to cry. “And hey, this was a long time ago. Way before any of you guys were born. It can’t happen to you.”

“But it happened to you!” Izumi said, getting up and running over to a confused Majima, her little arms outstretched. “I’m sorry your eye is gone, Majima-san.”

 She hugged him and sniffled. Majima froze. After a moment, he patted her head. “Hey, don’t cry. It’s okay. I got one good one left. It doesn’t slow me down none.” he said, before looking around for help. 

 Before Kiryu could act, Ayako and Haruka helped detach Izumi. She sat between the two older girls, looking more calm, but still looking at Majima sadly. 

“Was this a bad idea?” Majima asked Kiryu.

“She just doesn’t like it when people get hurt.” Kiryu said, before looking at Izumi. “But Majima-san isn’t hurt anymore, Izumi. He’s a really tough guy.”

“Yeah. It don’t hurt at all. See.” Majima said, tapping on the eyepatch. 

 Izumi nodded, and hugged Ayako. 

“Can we see it?” Shiro asked, after Majima pointed at him.

“He doesn’t have to show it if he doesn’t want to.” Riona said loudly, holding her arms to her chest. 

“That’s right. He doesn’t.” Kiryu agreed. Maybe this was a bad idea. 

“I don’t wanna upset anybody.” Majima said, looking between the kids. 

 A couple of them spoke over each other, but Majima held up a hand, quieting all of them. Kiryu would have to ask him how to do that. 

“I don’t show just anybody what’s under here. Only people I really trust, and I think I can trust ya, right?”

 The kids nodded. Kiryu couldn’t believe he was actually doing this, but he reached up and took off the patch. The kids looked, but were surprisingly silent. 

“Is it always closed?” Koji asked in a small voice. 

“Yep. The blinds stay shut.” Majima said. 

“How old were you when it happened?” Haruka asked. 

“Bout a month before I turned twenty-one.” Majima said. 

“It looks really cool.” Taichi said. 

“Yeah? Not too scary?” Majima asked with genuine curiosity. Although the kids looked somber, most shook their heads no. He smiled. “Huh. Good to know.  Don’t think I’ve had it off in front of this many people in sh- uh, I don’t know. Probably never.”

“Thank you for trusting us.” Haruka said. 

“Yer a good bunch,” Majima said, putting his eyepatch back on, “here, have some candy.”

 Kiryu hadn’t seen him take out the candy he’d bought, but it had apparently been next to him the whole time. The candy caused an uproar beyond anything to do with the eyepatch. Kiryu smiled as the watched Majima distribute the candy to the group, and snuck an extra few pieces to Izumi. He was proud of the kids for their reactions, and proud of Majima for being so honest with them. He fit into their lives in such an unexpected way. Kiryu had to look down. His feelings were too close to the surface, and that wasn’t something he could let himself show. 

 Soon the kids were working away at their schoolwork, or drawing. There was a boxing match Haruka and Taichi wanted to watch, so those who were finished watched that on the TV with Majima. 

 After a few nervous looks, Riona approached Majima and sat next to him. They were too far away to hear, but Kiryu watched as Riona pulled her sleeves up to show him her burns. He put a hand on her shoulder and said something that made her smile, before removing his eyepatch again. They turned to watch the match, eyepatch off and sleeves rolled up. Kiryu felt an overwhelming wave of affection. 

 Later that night, as soon as Majima shut the door to their room, Kiryu grabbed him and held him close. 

“Thank you, for everything,” he murmured into Majima’s ear, “I can’t thank you enough.”

 Majima clung to him silently for a long moment. If Kiryu were the type of man who cried easily he would have done so. If he were more verbose, he would have given a heartfelt speech. He wasn’t the best at expressing himself, but he could hold on, and hope that his feelings were clear. 

 Eventually, Majima pulled back and smiled. “All this gratitude for a bag of candy?”

 Kiryu shook his head and kissed him. It had been too many hours since they’d kissed. This kiss was slow and strong, before Majima put his head on his shoulder.  

“It was real tough keepin’ my hands off ya today.” Majima said in his ear, running his hands up Kiryu’s back under his shirt. 

“It really was. What you did for me and the kids today… I can’t repay you.”

“Yer not supposed to repay me.” Majima said, thumping him on the back. 

“I’m just saying it means a lot.” Kiryu said. He pulled back so they could see eye to eye. 

“I like makin’ ya happy.” 

“I’m really happy.” Kiryu said. He began to undo the buttons of Majima’s shirt. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d felt so happy. 

 Majima sighed and threw his shirt across the room. “Another damn good day. I hope the kids don’t get nightmares.” 

“You haven’t given them any reason to be afraid of you.” Kiryu put a hand on Majima’s cheek, struck by how attractive he looked. 

“They haven’t seen the big scary face on my back yet.” Majima said, leaning into Kiryu’s touch. 

“You’ve won them over already. I don’t think it’ll be a problem.”

“Ya sure? I made the little one cry.”

“Only because she didn’t like the idea of you getting hurt. The candy helped.”

“There ain’t a lot of people out there who would cry over little ol’ me. Can’t say I hate it.” Majima said with a smile. They faced each other, with Majima’s hands around his waist. “How about it, Kiryu-chan? Ya gonna cry if I get hurt?”

“I feel like that’s a trick question,” Kiryu said. “but I think I’ve made it clear how I feel about you. I’m sure you can figure out your answer from that.”

 Under his breath, Majima laughed, as if to himself. He closed his eye and his head fell forward. “Fuck,” he muttered, “I am in too deep. You really are gonna kill me.”

 Kiryu pushed Majima’s hair out of his face. “Stop saying that.” 

 Majima opened his eye and smirked. “Why? Gonna cry?”

 Kiryu scowled and pulled him into another hug. “You’re really annoying.” he said fondly as Majima softly laughed. 

“And you like it.” Majima teased, biting his neck. 

“And I like it.” Kiryu admitted with a sigh, leaning over and turning out the light. 

Chapter 12: Friday, 2am

 Kiryu woke up to a strange sound.

The room was hot and muggy, and it was still dark. He was on his side, with Majima lying in front of him, long limbs curled almost into a ball. There was just enough light from the clock radio behind them to see that Majima was twitching like a sleeping dog, breathing heavily. Was he having a nightmare? He made another noise, a pained sound. Kiryu touched his shoulder. 

“Nii-san,” he whispered, “wake up.”

 No effect. He shook his shoulder harder. “Oy, Majima.” he said a little louder, “Wake up.” 

 No answer. “Goro?”

 Majima gasped, his muscles rigid. Despite the heat, Kiryu slung his arm over him and pulled Majima’s back into his chest, holding his arm around his chest. Majima held his arm, still breathing ragged. 

“It’s okay.” Kiryu said in his ear. Majima didn’t answer, but squeezed his arm. “Bad dream?”

“Yeah. Let me up for a second.” 

 Kiryu removed his arm. Majima stood up. The blue light of the clock radio lit up his shiny black pants as he took a couple steps away. Kiryu looked behind him to check the time. It was just after 2am. 

“Let’s get some air.” Kiryu said, rising to his feet. He was just wearing sweatpants, but that didn’t matter. He grabbed his smokes.

“Yeah, okay.”

 Kiryu opened the door quietly, and after they paused to put on sandals at the door, they left the house. Kiryu led them silently across the street and onto the sand.

 The moon was nearly full, and reflected off the water, giving enough light to see. One of the kids had left a beach towel out, and Majima sat down, wiping sand off the towel beside him for Kiryu. He sat as well, shoulder to shoulder. He’d grown accustomed to sitting on Majima’s right, to better see his eye. 

 It was much cooler outside, and the slight breeze against his bare chest was calming. “Better?” Kiryu asked. 

 Majima reached for his knee and squeezed it. “Yeah.” he said, looking at Kiryu’s face like he was making sure it was really him. 

“Do you want to talk about it?” he asked. He held out his pack. Majima took a cigarette and Kiryu lit it for him. A familiar ritual from another time.

 Majima blew out smoke and passed the cigarette to Kiryu. “Not much to say. Just a stupid dream.” 

 Kiryu took a drag and looked out at the water. “You don’t need to tell me,” he said, “but I don’t like seeing you upset.”

“I’m not..” Majima started, then shook his head. “You’d think after twenty-five years my brain would give it a rest with the eye dreams.”

 Majima shuddered, and turned his head away. Kiryu didn’t know how to respond, so instead he ran a hand over Majima’s back and kissed the top of his shoulder. They stayed like that, watching the waves and sharing the cigarette. Kiryu hadn’t shared a cigarette with anybody since he was a teenager, and that was only because he never had money for smokes. This felt far more intimate. 

 Majima sighed, blowing smoke away to his left. “I got away from those dreams for a couple of years, but this whole thing with my bro brought ‘em back with a vengeance. Variations of the same shit. This one was…” he shook his head again, looking disgusted, “I uh, shit. I had to watch it happen to you.” Majima reached out and touched his face, his thumb rubbing underneath Kiryu’s left eye. He shuddered, then took his hand away and let his head rest on Kiryu’s shoulder. “Gotta say, waking up like that is a lot is better with you around.”

 

Then stay. 

 

 The words were on the tip of his tongue, but Kiryu couldn’t say them. It wouldn’t be fair. “I’m a lot better with you around.” Kiryu said. It wasn’t exactly what he wanted to say, but the slight smile on Majima’s face made him happy. 

“Nobody’s better than you, Kiryu-chan,” Majima said, “I’ll kick anyone’s ass who says otherwise.”

“I’ll do the same for you.” Kiryu said. “We fight better side by side anyway.”

 Majima chuckled and knocked his knee against Kiryu’s. “Ya tryin’ to get me goin’?”

 Kiryu couldn’t help looking back at the road. Nobody was there, but he still felt nervous. 

“Relax. I need more sleep before I can get my hands on ya the way I want.” Majima said in a low voice. He sighed again. “Those stars are really somethin’, huh?”

 He looked up. In the soft blue moonlight, Kiryu had to bite his tongue to keep from telling Majima he loved him again. Now wasn’t the time, but it’s all he could think about. 

“Come on.” he said instead.

 After brushing off the sand, they stood back up. As silently as they could, they got back inside to their futon. Kiryu held his arm out but Majima rolled him onto his side.

“Be a little spoon for me. I need my arms around ya like this.”

 Kiryu allowed himself to be positioned. Going outside had cooled him down, and Majima’s hot chest against his back was comforting, as was the arm and leg that soon covered his own. Majima was like a wiry, hard blanket that he wouldn’t trade for anything. 

 Majima yawned. “Ya called me Goro.”

“Is that a problem?”

“No. Nobody calls me that anymore. Not for a long time.” Majima replied sleepily, His face against the back of Kiryu’s neck, and his arm travelled over Kiryu’s stomach. “Didn’t think I’d ever get to be with you like this. Not after all the bullshit I put ya through.”

“It wasn’t all bullshit.” Kiryu said. “I’m so much stronger because of you.”

“That’s nicer than I deserve.” Majima said, kissing the top of his shoulder. 

“You know how I feel.” Kiryu said, taking his hand, “looking back doesn’t change that.”

“Kiryu-chan.” Majima breathed, holding him tighter. 

 Kiryu’s head felt heavy and tired. He was getting used to being held. He wasn’t sure how he was going to manage without it. Soon after, he drifted off to sleep.

Chapter 13: Friday, Early Morning

 The alarm beeped, shaking Kiryu out of a deep sleep. From behind him, Majima groaned his annoyance before twisting around to hit the off button. He then turned back and grabbed Kiryu. “Gotcha, Kiryu-chan.” he mumbled. Kiryu hummed in agreement. 

The room was warm again, but Majima pulled himself even closer. Kiryu took a deep breath at the feel of the hardness against his backside. 

“No better way to wake up.” Majima said, kissing his shoulder before rolling onto his back. “Well, I could make it better, but I can wait.”

“I guess I can too.” Kiryu replied. He rolled over and kissed Majima’s scratchy, unshaved cheek. Majima blinked his eye and gave him a lazy smile. Kiryu smiled back. “You’re cute in the mornings.”

 Majima chuckled. “I’m gonna bite ya for sayin’ that.” he said, but didn’t move. 

 Soon they reluctantly rose and started the usual morning routine. Haruka helped Kiryu make breakfast as Majima talked with the kids. He had his eyepatch back on, a plain black one, and was laughing just as loudly as the rest of them. 

“We’ll miss him when he leaves.” Haruka said. 

“I’m glad everyone’s getting along.” Kiryu said after carefully considering his response. 

“He’s always been nice to me. After the first time I met him, anyway.”

 Kiryu smiled. “When did he give you grocery money?”

“Tuesday. There’s still a lot left. He said he wasn’t sure how much the kids ate. Don’t worry. I’ll use the rest for more groceries.”

“I wasn’t worried. And if you want to get something for yourself too that’s fine.”

 Haruka shook her head. “I’d rather get something we can all use, but maybe I’ll get a boba tea next time I’m over by the market.”

 She laughed when Kiryu made a face, knowing how much he disliked boba. They’d tried it the first month they lived together and she’d laughed at him then too. They’d both really needed to smile at the time, and it had become a long-running joke. 

“We were thinking about putting on a wrestling match for the kids.” Kiryu said. 

 Haruka frowned. “Hmm. Couldn’t that um, get out of hand?”

 Kiryu couldn’t blame her for saying that.  She’d seen several of their fights first hand. “We’ll make sure it doesn’t. I’m more worried it’ll give you guys bad memories of last time.”

 Haruka considered for a moment. “We all have bad memories from last year, but that wasn’t one of them.” she said. “It’s good if we remember the happy parts of our past, even if they’re tied to the sad parts.”

“That’s really wise.” Kiryu said. “I’ll have to remember that.”

“The caretaker at Sunflower said something like that to me when I was ten.” Haruka replied. “He’ll need a costume.” 

“Yeah. We’ll figure something out.” Kiryu said with a smile. 

“And after that, since everybody else gets to wrestle, maybe we can talk more about teaching me to fight?”

 Kiryu frowned, “I hate the thought of you fighting.”

 She stopped what she was doing and looked up at him. “So do I, but if I have to, I don’t want to be helpless.”

 Her serious, pleading expression was never easy for Kiryu to resist. She never asked him for anything unreasonable, and her request did made sense. As much as he’d like to believe the kids were out of danger now, he knew the world they lived in. 

“Okay. After Majima leaves, we’ll set aside some time just the two of us. I don’t want the other kids around for it.”

 Haruka hugged him. “Thank you, Uncle Kaz. I won’t bring it up again.”

 The thought of Haruka being old enough to need to know how to defend herself didn’t sit well with Kiryu. He was supposed to defend her. But she was right, as she usually was. 

 They ate breakfast and sent the kids on their way. Majima was just as involved as ever. Kiryu hoped the kids weren’t getting too attached, a funny thing to worry about considering how attached he’s become. After the last of them left, Majima pulled the door closed behind him.

“You’re quiet, even fer you.”

 Kiryu shrugged. “They’re just growing up so fast.”

 Majima slapped a hand on his shoulder. “Aw, these kids are lucky to have ya, Uncle Kaz.”

 Kiryu cracked a smile. Majima grabbed his arm and pulled him back to the kitchen so they could get the dishes done. He’d settled into their routine without complaint or boredom, and it touched Kiryu’s heart. 

“I can’t believe how easy this has been.” Kiryu said as they got started. 

“I really wanna know what ya thought I’d be doin’ when I got here.” Majima said with a laugh. “Did ya think I’d pop in once a day, start some fights, demand that ya make me takoyaki…”

“Heh, stop.” Kiryu said.  

“Maybe say a bunch of suggestive shit that flies right over yer head, kidnap a kid or two-”

“Majima.”

“What? Too real?” Majima asked, leaning into Kiryu as they stood at the sink.  

 Kiryu kissed the side of his cheek, smooth now, since he’d shaved. “I didn’t really know what to expect. I was worried you’d be bored.”

“You’ve done a damn good job of keeping me entertained.” Majima said, raising an eyebrow. “Even this domestic, playin’ house-type stuff with you and the kids is fun.”

“I’m glad.” Kiryu said. It made him a lot more than just glad. He tried to maintain his composure, but he couldn’t help the smile on his face. It remained that way till the dishes were done. 

“So. Wrestling.” Majima said, sauntering back into Kiryu’s room. “Which type do ya wanna start with? The fun kind, or the really fun kind?”

 Kiryu’s mind swam with possibilities. Too many possibilities. He thought about how they woke up this morning. “Someday I want to wake up in a hotel with you.”

 Majima smiled and pulled himself close. “Not what I asked, but I like the sound of that. A nice place or one of them tacky love hotels?”

“That part doesn’t matter. Just a room with a bed, and you and me.”

“I live in a place like that, ya know.” Majima said, running a hand up his arm. A nice clean apartment, satin sheets, air conditioning, a stocked bar… all that’s missing is you.”

“Is that an invitation?” Kiryu asked. 

“It’s an open invitation. Although if ya ever get there I might not let ya leave.”

 Kiryu closed his eyes. Having him here was great, but the idea of a full, uninterrupted night and day together was extremely appealing. “I wouldn’t want to leave.”

“You’re waking up a bunch of old fantasies talkin’ like that.” Majima said, leaning in even closer, chest against his, hand scratching down his bicep. Kiryu opened his eyes and saw that knowing smirk he knew would be there. Kiryu knew exactly what he wanted to do. 

“Majima?”

“Yeah?”

“Fight me.”

 Majima tightened his grip on his arm. “Kiryu-chan! Yer makin’ my knees weak!”

“Then hurry up and get across the street.” Kiryu said. 

“That authoritative tone!” Majima said, laughing wildly as he headed for the door. “Kiryu-chan, I’m walkin’ on air! Yer gonna have to pull me down from the clouds before ya can get those strong hands on me.”

 He remembered this version of Majima well. The one who would goad him into fights with his overdramatic, suggestive taunts. Except now Kiryu could respond knowing they were on the same page. 

 Kiryu stopped him before he could open the outside door. He grabbed Majima’s face with both hands and kissed him hard. Majima went stiff, as if he were stunned. When Kiryu pulled back Majima’s eye was wide. It struck Kiryu as odd, and made him smile. 

“Why do you look so shocked?” he asked  “This isn’t the first time I’ve kissed you.”

 Majima shrugged, looking amused now. “I wasn’t expecting it. Not when I was bein’ obnoxious.”

“I like that I don’t have to spend so much time figuring out if there’s truth behind what you say.” Kiryu said. 

“Hmm. I’m gonna have to work a lot harder to fluster you, is what yer sayin’.”

“Something like that, but please remember that we have neighbours.”

“Sure thing, hot stuff.” Majima said, leaning in. Kiryu closed his eyes and tilted his head, ready to be kissed again. When nothing happened, he opened his eyes to a smirking Majima. “If ya wanna kiss me, yer gonna have to fight me first.”

“Heh. I should have known. Let’s go.”

 Majima stretched as they crossed the street, twisting his spine back and forth and cracking his neck. He wore black shorts under a loud, yellow Hawaiian shirt with palm trees on it. He undid the buttons and let it hang open as he kicked off his shoes and stood in the sand. 

 Kiryu had on a loose black tee and soft grey shorts that hit his knees. He’d anticipated this fight and wanted to be comfortable. The sand was hot under his bare feet, and the sun was already beating down. He wished he’d chosen a lighter shirt, but there was no stopping this now. 

“It’s been a while since I’ve seen any pro-wrestling. You wanna set some ground rules?”

 Kiryu smiled. Majima was buzzing with barely contained excitement, shifting his weight between his feet. He was surprised he’d even asked before attacking. 

“I won’t do anything I wouldn’t do in the arena. Nothing too painful because whatever we do, the kids might try to replicate it. I thought we could work together to do a throw or two.”

“Gotcha. We show off a little without wailing on each other too hard. I can handle that.”

 Kiryu nodded. “There’s a move you do, where suddenly you’re on my shoulders and flip me to the ground.”

“Like that one, do ya? Bend your left knee a little more and I’ll show ya right now.”

 Kiryu nodded. As soon as his knee bent Majima rushed him. For the first time, Kiryu didn’t resist. Majima’s used his knee as a step-stool and in an instant he was on Kiryu’s shoulders, before twisting them both completely over and onto the ground. He closed his eyes spread his arms to break the fall as they hit the sand.

“How’s that?” Majima asked, his eye shining in the sun as they got back to their feet.

“Beautiful.” Kiryu said. 

“Shut up.” Majima laughed, rushing forward again. Kiryu blocked his first two punches, and sidestepped the third, pushing Majima off balance. Kiryu gave a light tap to his side, enough to show that he could have landed the hit if he’d wanted. Majima backed away and looked at him with disgust. 

“The hell was that?”

“We’re not aiming to hurt.” Kiryu reminded him.

“Sure, but gimme something. I ain’t sayin’ we should bloody each other up, but that was one percent power. Gimmie at least thirty or it ain’t fun.” Majima said, lunging forward. He spun sideways and punched Kiryu in the ribs. Not hard, but a lot harder than the hit Kiryu landed. Majima smiled, and went for an uppercut. Kiryu grabbed his fist and pulled, knocking him off balance again. He pressed forward, hooking Majima’s leg, throwing him down. 

 Taking two steps back, Kiryu let Majima get to his feet. He shook the sand out of his hair and laughed. “That’s more like it.” Before he could attack again, Kiryu went on the offensive. They traded blows back and forth, amping up the speed to something more familiar. 

“I can’t do half of what I want in this damn sand.” Majima complained, after a failed attempt at an upside down kick. 

“We could wet the sand down on the day.” Kiryu offered, grabbing for the lapel of Majima’s shirt. He missed, but a second later, the yellow shirt was off and thrown behind them.

“That might help, or maybe some cardboard? I can adjust.” Majima mused, moving closer to the waters edge where the sand was wet.

 Kiryu followed, and ground his foot into the wet sand, testing the sturdiness. Majima used the distraction to get close again. He kicked, but Kiryu was able to dodge in time. Majima’s quick hands grabbed the next punch he threw. Majima spun, bending his spine backwards and underneath Kiryu’s arm so he ended up with his back against Kiryu’s chest, with Kiryu’s arm over his shoulder. He elbowed Kiryu in the stomach, then jumped away. 

“That’s a new one.”

“Somethin’ I’ve been workin’ on. If you were a smaller guy, I’d’ve thrown ya over my shoulder, but that mighta broken yer arm.”

“Good thing I’m not a smaller guy.”

“Ain’t that the truth.” Majima said, pointedly checking him out before he attacked. 

 Even at a lesser intensity than they were used to, fighting Majima was thrilling. They grappled, and it soon became clear that Majima’s goal was getting his shirt off. Even though it was hot out, Kiryu wasn’t about to surrender so quickly. He slapped Majima’s hand away after he made a third grab for the tee shirt, then sidestepped and countered with a hard push to the shoulder blade.  

 Before Majima could regroup, Kiryu pulled his shirt off himself and threw it. Majima caught it easily. He glanced up at the road to make sure they were alone, then brought the shirt to his face and inhaled. He kept eye contact with Kiryu, who stopped in his tracks. Something like that should have grossed him out, but like so many other things Majima did, that’s not how his body reacted at all. 

 Kiryu reached out and grabbed his shirt back, tossing it towards Majima’s, which lay on the dry sand. He expected another attack, but Majima took a step back. 

“Tryin’ to distract me?” Majima asked, looking him up and down hungrily. 

“I could ask you the same thing.” he replied. “I missed this.”

“It’s damn good to hear you admit that.” Majima said, spinning into another attack. 

 Kiryu couldn’t help smiling as they fell into the rhythm of the fight. Despite his annoyance with sand, Majima still moved  in a fluid, flowing way that was equal parts rough and graceful. They continued for another minute till Kiryu dumped Majima down on the sand again. He laughed and stayed down. 

 They looked at each other, the electricity between them made the air feel charged. It looked like Majima had something to say, so Kiryu waited. 

“I…” Majima started, but didn’t say any more. 

“Want to go back inside?” Kiryu asked, offering his hand. 

“Hell yes.” 

Notes:

Another day that’s getting chopped into several chapters. I’d like to say that my inconsistent posting schedule is due to something important like work or life, but no. It’s because Like A Dragon: Ishin! is out on gamepass now and it’s all I’ve been doing.

Thanks for reading!

Chapter 14: Friday, Late Morning

 As soon as Kiryu shut the door, Majima grabbed his arm and pulled him back into their room. Kiryu quickly pulled that door shut too, and then Majima’s mouth was on his. The kiss was hungry and demanding. Majima’s arms, even warmer than usual from fighting in the sun, wrapped around his waist. One of his hands followed his spine upward, while the other dipped under his shorts, grabbing his ass. 

“All our fights should end this way.” Kiryu said between open-mouthed kisses. 

“I’ve always thought that.” Majima replied, grinding against him with a hand still on his ass. “You’re so much better than any of my dumbshit little fantasies.”

 Kiryu kissed his neck. “I want to make you happy.” he said. Majima groaned and held him tighter. “How can I make you happy?”

 Majima laughed like Kiryu had told a joke. He pulled back to arms length and put his arms on top of Kiryu’s shoulders. “Are ya kiddin’? I’ve never been this happy. Not in my whole tragic-ass life. I…” his expression turned stern, “yer doin’ it again.”

“What?”

“Turnin’ me into a bigger sap than you.” Majima said, pulling him into a hug that seemed sweet till Kiryu felt teeth against his neck. He sucked in a breath as Majima licked down his throat to his chest, his teeth grazing along Kiryu’s skin. 

“Be as sappy as you want. It won’t change anything.” Kiryu said. 

“Course it will. It’s all part of yer plan.” Majima said, swirling his tongue around Kiryu’s nipple as his hands ran over his abdominal muscles. “I could spend the rest of the day with this gorgeous fuckin’ chest of yours. Ya look amazing.”

“I-I don’t have a plan.” Kiryu said. Majima’s praise was too much to even acknowledge. He ran his hand through Majima’s hair. 

“I can’t believe you’re lettin’ me do this.” Majima mused, still giving his attention to Kiryu’s chest. “And after a fight? What more could I ask for?”

 He still didn’t understand what Majima meant about a plan, but the rest of what he said made Kiryu feel good. “I want to give you everything.” he said. He tugged on Majima’s hair, forcing his head up. He worried it was too hard but Majima grinned. 

“Everything, huh?  Did ya have somethin’ in mind?”

 He did, but Kiryu was still trying to work out how to phrase it without feeling embarrassed. 

“Aw, Kiryu-chan,” Majima said fondly, looking right through him, as usual, “you’ve got as much trouble with dirty talk as I do with the sappy stuff.”

Kiryu chuckled despite his embarrassment, his fingers against the back of Majima’s skull. “It doesn’t mean I don’t want-”

“I know.” Majima said, looking at him with that bright, genuine smile. “I think we can make it work. I can tell ya that nobody’s ever fucked me as good as you, and you can say-”

“That I love you.” Kiryu couldn’t help saying. Majima winced and shut his eye. A few days ago that reaction would have hurt. But he understood Majima better now. He pulled him into a hug. Majima kissed his neck again. 

“Yer not makin’ this easy.” he murmured into Kiryu’s ear. 

“It’s not going to be easy letting you go anyway.” Kiryu said, rubbing his hand against the short, fuzzy hair at the back of Majima’s head, “I’ve wasted too much of my life holding back how I feel. I don’t want to do that anymore.”

“Kiryu-chan, I…”

“You don’t have to say anything.” Kiryu said, “it’s okay.”

 Majima forced a laugh. “Are we always gonna have these heavy conversations in the middle of gettin’ something going?” 

“I don’t know. I’ve never done this before. I feel like I’m doing everything out of order.” Kiryu said. 

“Well, lucky for you, just about everything ya do turns me on, so a mind-blowing declaration here and there ain’t gonna stop me from gettin’ in yer pants.” Majima said. He hooked a finger under the hem of Kiryu’s sweatpants and pulled their hips together. 

“Good.” Kiryu breathed. Majima reached down and pulled his shorts down, running his hands back up his legs as he rose to standing. His hand curved around to the back of Kiryu’s thigh as Kiryu kicked the shorts away.

“How d’ya get anything done, lookin’ the way ya do?  If I was you I’d be staring in the mirror 24/7.” Majima said, appraising him like it was the first time he’d seen him. 

“What about you? You’re the most attractive man I’ve ever met.”

“Pfft! That don’t mean shit if I’m the only guy you’ve ever been attracted to.”

“You’re the only guy I’ve ever admitted being attracted to.” Kiryu said, touching his cheek. “There’s a difference.”

“Look at you, bein’ open about what yer into. It’s a brand new Kiryu-chan.” Majima said, looking genuinely happy. He ruffled Kiryu’s hair, then scowled. “Fine, I’ll take the compliment, but I’m gonna need the names of all these attractive guys I’m gonna have to go fight.”

“It’s nothing you have to worry about.” Kiryu said, “Heh, but I might like to watch that fight.”

 Majima’s eye widened as large as it could go, before he laughed wildly. “Who are you right now?”

 Kiryu shrugged, feeling at peace with himself in a way he never had before. “I don’t know. I’ve never talked about.. this sort of thing with anybody.”

“I know, and I’m damn proud of ya,” Majima said, pulling him over to the futon. “but I’m gettin’ impatient just standing around while I got ya mostly undressed.”

 Kiryu smiled, his confidence growing. “Then maybe you should do something about it.”

 The dangerous gleam in Majima’s eye was back. Kiryu loved that look. Majima’s wild side was exciting now that they were together. It no longer filled him with unease to be looked at the way Majima was looking at him now. 

 It wasn’t just the violence that had previously made him uneasy, Kiryu realized. It was the worry that somehow he was going to be found out, or exposed for the shameful act of being himself. That worry was gone, and with it, a huge weight was lifted off his shoulders. Majima knew who he was better than any other man alive, and there was a growing comfort in that. No, not just comfort. A relief. A thrill.

 Majima kissed him, biting at his bottom lip, and guiding him down to the futon till they were both on their knees, facing each other. “I know how much of this is new for ya. I wanna help ya figure out what ya want. What drives ya crazy.” Majima said in his ear, pushing him so he sat back on his heels. 

“You’ve always driven me crazy.” Kiryu replied.

 Majima smacked his shoulder and kissed him again, wrapping his arms around his neck. “I’m gonna make ya crazy as me. I want to show ya how to get as much pleasure as possible out of this perfect body of yours.” 

 Kiryu nodded and closed his eyes, “Y-yes. Yes please.”

 A deep rumble of a laugh came from Majima. “So polite! I’m gonna take good care of ya, Kiryu-chan, but I got a rule.”

 Kiryu opened his eyes. Majima held his cheeks in his hands, looking at him sternly. 

“You’ve got this stubborn.. determination to ya. It’s what makes you who you are, and it’s one of the best things about ya, but if I do anything you don’t like, I need ya to tell me.” his expression softened, and his thumb brushed against Kiryu’s cheek, “I mean it. I can’t have ya bein’ too nice, or tryna grin and bear it. If you ain’t havin’ fun, neither am I, alright?”

 Kiryu nodded as best he could considering Majima’s hands were holding his face. Majima leaned in and kissed him. Kiryu reached for the shorts Majima had on, fumbling for the zipper. Majima let him, as the kiss deepened. Once the zipper was down, Majima’s hands circled his wrists, and he licked the side of Kiryu’s face. 

“All I need ya to do is relax. I’ll look after everything else.” Majima said, his voice deep and soothing, even if his expression was devilish. 

 Kiryu took a breath. “I trust you. I want you.” he said. I love you, he thought. 

 With his hands still around Kiryu’s wrists, Majima pulled him forward onto his hands and knees, then shuffled till he was beside him. Kiryu took a deep breath as Majima’s hands travelled along his back, almost as if he was petting the dragon. Majima’s hands were softer than his own, probably because of the gloves he usually wore. It felt so good to be touched with such care. 

“You’re a work of art.” Majima said. He crawled behind Kiryu and tapped the inside of his thigh, guiding his knees a little further apart. Kiryu felt nervous, but the anticipation was stronger than his nerves. He’d never given up control in the bedroom before. He’d never had the opportunity. 

 Majima ran both his warm hands over his back till he reached the top of his boxer-briefs. He pulled them down slowly, mindful of Kiryu’s growing erection. He guided Kiryu to shift his weight off of one knee at a time till they were completely off. He wasn’t expecting slow from Majima, and his unpredictability had never been sexier. 

“What a masterpiece. I wanna put my mouth on every last inch of ya.”

“Majima.” Kiryu breathed, for no other reason except that he liked saying his name. He felt Majima grow closer, then his warm breath was over his lower back, trailing wet kisses down across his skin, down to the base of his tattoo. 

 Kiryu let out a shuddering breath. Majima’s hands cupped his ass, spreading his cheeks apart and squeezing. Kiryu was beyond nervousness now. He just needed Majima to keep touching him. 

“I spent a lot of years wondering about this dragon, and how far down it goes. It’s got its claws in ya.” Majima said, placing his hand over the dragon’s claw on the left side and squeezing. “Just gorgeous.”

 A single finger was placed at his tailbone, and moved down the valley between his ass cheeks. Kiryu couldn’t help the desperate moan that escaped him when Majima’s finger began caressing the delicate skin around his hole. His other hand ran down his thigh. 

“Don’t hold yer breath, darlin’.” Majima said. His hand travelled back up his thigh to cup his sack, slowly massaging.

 Kiryu hadn’t realized he was holding it. He took a deep breath. After a minute, Majima’s hands left him. As if he could sense that Kiryu’s arms were starting to tire, he pushed pillows forward. Kiryu lowered his head and arms to rest on the pillows, while his ass stayed exposed in the air. A position he thought would make him feel undignified, but just made him almost painfully excited. 

 Kiryu closed his eyes and took another deep breath. The sound of Majima’s lube bottle clicked open, and in his haze, Kiryu had a thought. 

“Do you always travel with lube in your bag?”

 Majima chuckled. “I knew I’d be gettin’ off one way or another.” he said, one slick finger playing over his left ass cheek, along the dragon’s claw, “Worst case scenario I’d be by myself in some cold and lonely hotel room, thinkin’ of you and yer gorgeous ass.” Kiryu took a breath as Majima’s finger travelled to his right cheek. “Best case, I’d be using it with you, but I wasn’t sure that would ever happen. I never thought you’ll let me touch ya like this.”

“You’re very good with your hands.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima made a contented sound. His slick finger slipped down the cleft of Kiryu’s ass again. He began circling him, teasing him, still so slowly. It was making him feel like a wild animal. As crazy as him, Majima had promised. 

 Kiryu sharply gasped when Majima’s finger was replaced by his tongue. He gripped the futon beneath him as Majima’s tongue did that swirl he’d done on several other parts of his body. His hands were back on his ass cheeks, and while the movement of his tongue were slow and gentle, his hands were strong and firm. The contrast of sensations emptied his brain of coherent thought. Lost to the sensation. Kiryu did his best to relax. Sweat beaded on his forehead, and dripped down his spine. It was still too slow, too gentle. 

“Fuck, you’re perfect like this.” Majima growled, as a finger finally pressed inside him. “My Kiryu-chan.”

“Yes.” Kiryu hissed. Majima’s finger went deeper, touching inside him, pressing in and out. He’d wanted this longer than he ever would have admitted before. Majima was fulfilling a deep, secret curiosity that Kiryu never thought he’d actually experience. He tried not to hold his breath. 

 Majima added another finger. So slowly. It was too much and not nearly enough all at once. The new sensation did feel a little uncomfortable at first. He knew he needed time to adjust, but he wanted more.

 Kiryu turned his head to the side and looked back. Majima was staring at him with that wild look. Lips parted, and eye hungrily looking him over. The sight shot through him like a bolt of pleasure. Kiryu had never been so exposed, so willingly at the mercy of someone else. That it was Majima doing this to him only intensified the how good it felt. Kiryu shifted slightly, he was so hard now and Majima hadn’t even touched his cock.  

“Faster.” Kiryu grunted, pushing himself back.

“I’ll get ya there, don’t cha worry. I gotta make sure you can take it.” Majima said, taking a firm hold of his thigh. 

“I can take it. Majima… I need you.” Kiryu said, desperation overruling shame. 

 Majima groaned as he worked his fingers into Kiryu, hitting a place inside him that made him shudder, that made him unable to keep quiet. Majima breathed hard. “I’m tryin’ to be good and gentle here, Kiryu-chan. You’re tearing my self-control apart.”

“Good.” Kiryu growled. 

 A shrill laugh echoed through the small room. Majima slapped his ass. “Easy, tough guy.”

 Kiryu grunted. “Majima, please.”

“I’d say it’s about fuckin’ time you started callin’ me Goro.”

 Kiryu hummed his approval. “Goro.” he said, letting his voice go deep. “Goro, I need it.”

 Majima withdrew his fingers. After a second, the bottle snapped opened again, and he was slathered by what felt like an overage of lubricant. Majima snorted a laugh, which made Kiryu wonder if he’d used too much by accident. Any more thoughts dissipated as he felt Majima thighs against his backside. He slid his cock in between his cheeks and moaned. He leaned back as Majima repeated the motion, rubbing himself against Kiryu.

“Never seen ya so impatient.” Majima said, pressing closer to his entrance. “I’m goin’ slow for your sake here.” Kiryu was going to reply, but Majima spread him apart and positioned himself. “Remember what I said?”

“Yeah.” Kiryu asked. If he were any less aroused he’d be pleased by Majima’s consideration, but his one-track mind just wanted him to get on with it.  

“Good.” Still slowly and carefully, Majima finally pushed inside. 

 Kiryu grunted and grabbed the futon again. This was a lot more to take than a finger or two. Part of him wanted to hurry past the discomfort, but that wasn’t what he agreed to. “Easy, Kiryu-chan. Breathe.” Majima said, although his voice was strained. 

“I’m okay.” Kiryu said after a deep breath. 

 Majima’s hand caressed his lower back. “Breathe.” he said again, pushing in further, then pulling almost all the way out. 

 Kiryu couldn’t help the noise he made. It was almost too much, despite the gentle way Majima was treating him, but it wasn’t stubbornness that made him want more. It was a haze of lust and curiosity. “I’m okay.” he said again. When there was no response, he pushed his hips back. Majima yelped, and Kiryu froze. 

“Give me a second. Just a fuckin’ second.” Majima hissed, sounding as desperate as Kiryu felt, now buried inside him. Suddenly Kiryu realized that Majima’s pace wasn’t just for his benefit. 

“Sorry.”

“S’okay.” Majima said through gritted teeth, “Fuck, yer tight. Got me ready to burst, and I ain’t even started.”

 Despite his words, Majima started to move. A slow slide that dissolved Kiryu’s discomfort and replaced it with a very new sensation. He looked behind him.  Majima’s eyes were shut tight. He’d started out wearing his eyepatch but that was gone. Somehow he sensed he was being watched. His eye opened, and he smiled down at Kiryu. Then Majima raised his hand. Kiryu nodded. A second later his ass was slapped again.

 Majima laughed, joyful and wild, and drove into him, hitting that spot that made Kiryu gasp and clench. He held Kiryu’s hips steady as he thrusted, muttering something Kiryu couldn’t quite hear aside from the word Perfect.

 Suddenly Majima stopped. Kiryu looked back again as he pulled out. “Lie down on your side.” Majima said, keeping one hand on his hip as Kiryu moved. “I need ya closer, and you need a hand, don’t ya?”

“Anything you want.” Kiryu said, and meant it. 

“Mmm, yer a wet dream come true.” Majima said, spooning him the way he had when they woke up that morning. 

 Kiryu was happy to be guided. To be pulled and positioned till he was exactly where Majima wanted him. He lay on his left side. Majima took his thigh and held it as he entered him, then snuck his left hand underneath Kiryu and held him around his waist as he began to thrust again. There was no discomfort now, only pleasure, intensified by Majima’s face against his neck. He didn’t hear the lube bottle open this time, so he was surprised when Majima’s slick right hand circled the base of his erection. Kiryu bit his lip and moaned  

“You’re so hard.” Majima said, lips close to his ear. “Tell me how you’re feelin’.”

“G-good. Don’t stop.” Kiryu said. It was difficult to speak. He felt like he was being split in half in the best possible way. It was so intense, and putting words to what he was feeling was beyond him. “Don’t stop.”

“Not gonna stop, Kiryu-chan. Not till ya cum for me.” Majima said, pumping him with a tight grip as he drilled into him from behind.

 Kiryu moaned loudly. He knew he should respond, but he couldn’t think. He couldn’t even reach Majima from where he was. He was at his former superior’s mercy, stretched to the side and almost completely on top of him. It felt so different than anything he was used to, and so beyond what he thought it could be. Majima didn’t let up as his hips finally set the fast pace they both wanted. Kiryu couldn’t do anything more than hold on for the ride. 

“You’re close, I can feel it.” Majima whispered into his ear. 

“Yeah.” Kiryu said, breathing fast. It was on the verge of being overwhelming. He clenched his fists and his legs tensed. 

“You like it when I fuck ya fast and hard, don’t ya?”

“Yes,” he hissed, “yes, just like that.”

“I gotcha, Kaz.” Majima said, his voice strained. “I won’t let ya go.”

 Kiryu gave himself over to the ecstatic feeling that ripped through his body. He came across his stomach in long spurts, clenching down without meaning to, but Majima was right there gasping and shuddering with him, riding out their orgasms till they both grew still. 

 Kiryu could hear his heartbeat in his ears as he came back to himself. Majima was clinging to him, his breathing ragged against Kiryu’s neck. He slowly withdrew, then clasped both hands around Kiryu’s abdomen, unconcerned with the mess. 

“Fuck it. I can’t let you go. I can’t.” Majima said, breathless and shaky. “I was stupid to think I ever could.”

 Kiryu twisted his neck to look back at him, touching his cheek and bringing him in for a kiss. His face was wet, from sweat probably, but more so on the right side. “Goro.” he said when their lips parted. 

 Majima laughed a little. Kiryu pulled back to look at him. “You told me to call you that.”

“I’m not used to it yet.” Majima said, nuzzling their heads together in such a sweet gesture that it made Kiryu laugh. 

“Should I move?”

“Fuck no! Never move again.” Majima growled, holding him tighter. He had Kiryu almost completely on top of him. “I just said I ain’t lettin’ ya go.”

“Good. I’m not sure I can move yet.”

Majima kissed the side of his head. “You okay, Kiryu-chan?”

“Yeah. That was amazing.” Kiryu said, finding his lips again. He felt sore, but nothing he couldn’t handle. “Thank you.” 

“After all that you’re thanking me?” Majima said. “Crazy.”

 Kiryu smiled, resting his head back, with Majima’s arms still tight around him. “Is this, was this how you prefer to uh..”

“Not always. Depends on who I’m with, or the mood I’m in. You know me, I like to mix it up.”

“Hmm. I guess I thought it had to be one way or the other.”

“For some people, yeah. If ya wanna keep exploring to figure out what ya like best, ya know I’m game.” Majima kissed his neck again. It was almost ticklish, but Kiryu was too exhausted to mind. 

“I want to do everything with you.”

“Mmm. Good plan. Best plan I ever heard.”

 

 It wasn’t long before Kiryu had to move. He was starting to feel gross, and Majima had to be tired of holding his weight. Despite the noise of protest Majima made, Kiryu sat up and cleaned them off. “I need a shower.” he said. He looked down at Majima, lying back, glistening with sweat and looking like a dirty magazine spread. “Come with me.”

 Majima stretched his legs, “Okay, but no acrobatics this time. If ya try what ya did in there the other day I’ll fall on you.”

Kiryu was barely paying attention. “You’re really handsome.” he said.

 Majima laughed. “Stop, Kiryu-chan, you’re makin’ me shy!”

 He didn’t look the least bit shy. Majima flexed and posed before Kiryu helped him up. Before long, Majima was pulling him into the shower stall. 

 They washed each other in between lazy, unhurried kisses. Kiryu felt dazzled by how happy Majima looked. He wondered if Majima could see how happy he was too. 

“I came real close to givin’ you a hickey back there.” Majima said as Kiryu washed his back.  

“That would be hard to explain to the kids.”

“You could tell ‘em you were swimming and some big-lipped fish came and latched on.”

“Heh. Seems unlikely.” Kiryu said, rinsing Majima off. 

“I could give ya one where nobody could see.” Majima said, touching Kiryu’s inner thigh. 

“Why do you want to give me one at all?” Kiryu said. It seemed more of a teenage thing, not something two men in their forties should care about. 

“You’ve never wanted to put a mark on somebody?”

“No. And I’ve given you enough bruises.”

 Majima laughed and ran his hand through Kiryu’s wet hair. “Pretty cute answer. Fine.”

 Kiryu didn’t know how any of that could be cute, but Majima was happy enough to let the subject go. Kiryu grabbed him into a hug, letting the warm water hit his back. 

 After towelling off and getting dressed, Kiryu went and loaded up the washing machine with the blankets and a bunch of his and Majima’s clothes. He returned to Majima, who was lying on his futon on his back, only wearing shorts. Kiryu took his shirt off and laid down on his back next to him. As soon as he’d settled, Majima curled around him. It was a familiar motion now, and it made him happy. Everything Majima had done since he’d arrived made Kiryu fall harder. 

 Kiryu pushed Majima’s damp hair off his forehead. He needed to see his face. “Should I stop saying it?” he asked. 

 Majima took a deep breath, then shook his head. “No. Lemme hear it.”

 Kiryu kept his hand on the side of Majima’s face, maintaining eye contact. “I love you.”

 Majima nodded, his brow furrowing. His eye flicked back between each of Kiryu’s. “I… love you too.” he said. He paused, almost like he was waiting for something bad to happen. When nothing did, he finally smiled and grabbed Kiryu’s arm. “Of course I fuckin’ love you. I’ve been head over heels for years.”

 They kissed. Kiryu had suspected, he’d hoped, but he hadn’t expected him to say it outright. But he had. Majima loved him. Their limbs tangled, and he pulled a willing Majima on top of him as they kissed. 

 When Majima pulled back, he didn’t make eye contact, but touched Kiryu’s face like he was trying to memorize it. “Didn’t mean to keep ya waitin’. I’ve been tryin’ to tell ya since ya told me. It’s just...”

“I get it.” Kiryu thought of what he’d said earlier, how they had trouble saying certain things to each other.  He smiled, fighting past his shyness. “Nobody’s ever… fucked me as well as you.” 

 Majima’s eye snapped to his, and a delighted smile spread over his face. “I guess we’re even then, huh?” 

“I guess so.” 

 They stayed there for a few minutes, with Majima’s face against Kiryu’s neck, as Kiryu idly played with his hair. He felt tired and content. Loved. 

“I love your hair.”

 Majima sighed, his breath warm on Kiryu’s throat. “Should I grow it out?” 

“I don’t know. I’ve never seen you with any other haircut.”

“Hmm, guess ya haven’t. Last time it was long was… ‘99, I think?  I had it on the long side for a while before goin’ back to the ol’ standard do.”

“It’s hard to picture. I remember hearing that you had a ponytail before we met.”

 Majima snorted. “That’s goin’ way back. Back then it wasn’t so much a style as it was not giving a shit about gettin’ haircuts for a few years and… hell, since I’m bein’ honest, at the time I wasn’t a fan of sharp objects gettin’ too close my face.” He rubbed his bad eye and laughed to himself, “for some reason.”

“That makes sense.” Kiryu said. He let his fingers run through his hair again. “It looks good like this. You don’t have to change for my sake.”

 Majima smirked. “I don’t know how ya can say somethin’ like that about a guy like me, but I ain’t complaining.”

“I’m really happy you’re here.”

“Me too. This is a helluva vacation, Kiryu-chan. The service here is top notch.”

 Kiryu rolled his eyes as Majima chuckled, his expression open, happy, and… loving. It made his heart flip in a way it never had before. “I even love your dumb jokes.”

“Thank fuck for that.”

Chapter 15: Friday Afternoon

 Ten minutes later, they were still lying together. Majima seemed just as happily dazed as Kiryu felt. After the exhaustion of the morning, it was nice just to rest.

“When should we do the wrestling match?” Kiryu asked, his thumb brushing against Majima’s scarred knuckles, “Sunday would give us tomorrow to practice, and we could set up the ring with the kids.”

 Majima’s frowned. “S’only Thursday, isn’t it?”

“No. Friday.”

“Dammit.” Majima said, letting his head fall on Kiryu’s chest. He groaned loudly in annoyance. “How’d I already lose track of the date? This is your fault.”

“Why, what’s wrong?” Kiryu asked. Majima still hadn’t said when he was planning on leaving. He’d been vague and inferred it would be about a week. Did he have to leave sooner?  Kiryu tightened his grip. He wasn’t ready yet.

 Majima looked back up at him. “My phone’s been off since I got here. I told my guys I’d call in but only after a few days of bein’ left alone. Now I gotta check my damn messages.”

“Oh,” Kiryu said, relieved, “I can make us lunch while you do that.”

“So thoughtful, Kiryu-chan!” Majima said, “Don’t think I’ve had my phone off this long since I first got a cell. Nishida still has your number. I figured he’d call ya if the world ended or some shit.”

 Kiryu nodded. “Yeah, that’s fine.”

“Although… he was heavily threatened into not calling ya unless the Hills collapsed again.”

“Again?”

 Majima looked distracted. “Everything’s probably fine, but I gotta check.”

“You’re a very hands-on leader. I remember that from when I was helping with the construction company.”

“I could have been a lot more hands-on with ya, if things had been a little different.” Majima said, making no effort to move from where he lay on top of Kiryu’s chest. 

“Yeah?”

“Yeah.” 

 Majima didn’t elaborate. He didn’t need to. There were a lot of factors that year, and Kiryu didn’t really feel like talking about any of them right now. 

“I can’t leave here long, a few days at the most, and I can’t do it too often but-”

“But you’ll come see me?” Majima asked. “I’ll hide ya away. Make sure nobody knows yer there unless ya want em to. It’ll just be you and me, and anything ya wanna do. We don’t even have to stay in Kamurocho. We could go somewhere else. Somewhere new?”

 Kiryu kissed him, holding his cheek. “Did you say you had satin sheets?”

“Yep. Slippery, and feels good on the junk. You’d be the first to break ‘em in with me.”

“That’s where I want to go. I want to see where you live.”

“I’d love to have ya there. Or for you to have me there. Probably both.”

“Definitely both.” Kiryu agreed. Majima beamed at him, and Kiryu never wanted to look away.

 But they had things to do. Kiryu sat up, pulling Majima up with him. “Come on. Let’s get it over with.”

“No, I changed my mind. Fuck everything else but this.” Majima grumbled, clingy as ever.

“I don’t want you saying I distracted you from your work.”

“You’re always distracting me from my work! Don’t matter if you’re around or not. If you’re around I wanna see ya, and if ya ain’t, I just miss ya.”

“That’s sweet.” Kiryu said, choosing to ignore Majima’s returning glare. “Get up, I’m getting hungry.”

 Majima let him go and grabbed for his bag, as Kiryu got up and put on a shirt. Majima took out his phone, and after a moment it started buzzing.

“Hmm.” Majima said, squinting at the screen. “Yeah, I gotta put a call in.”

 He stood up and Kiryu watched as his posture changed. He shook out his limbs and cracked his neck, then frowned at his flip phone and snapped it shut. “This ain’t gonna work.” he said, walking back to Kiryu, “I’m all hopped up on yer sentimentality. I need ya to hit me or something.”

“I don’t want to hit you.”

“Ooh, the glare helps. Slap me then. One good slap in the face and I can deal with work.”

 Kiryu hadn’t meant to glare. “This doesn’t feel like a good idea.”

“C’mon, Kiryu-chan. I ain’t asking ya to knock me down, just a good slap.” Majima turned his head and touched his left cheek. “I can take it.”

“I know you can take it, that’s not the problem.” Kiryu said. “I have no interest in hurting you.”

“And that’s sweet and all, but I need to be a hardass for a few minutes. You’re not hurtin’, you’re helpin’ me out. Call it a love slap.” Majima said. 

“This is ridiculous, you’re being ridiculous.” Kiryu said. Majima just smiled and tapped his cheek again. He wasn’t going to back down, and Kiryu knew all too well that resisting this could turn it into a bigger fight. He sighed. “Ugh, fine. Ready?”

 Majima shut his eye. Kiryu brought his hand back and smacked him. It wasn’t too hard, but wasn’t soft either. He knew if he was too gentle Majima would make him do it again. 

“Hmm…” Majima’s eye opened. 

“Better?”

 Majima smirked. “Kinda had the opposite effect. I shoulda known.”

“Just when I’m starting to think I get you.”

 Majima considered, then shook out his limbs again. “Ya know, this is good. I can use this. I’m used to working when I’m all fired up about ya.”

 Kiryu nodded. He could work with that too. “There’s a lot I could do that doesn’t involve slapping you.”

“Yeah?” Majima grinned, wild again, and Kiryu understood. “Show me what ya got, Kiryu-chan. Stoke that fire.”

 They were standing close, but Kiryu put a hand on Majima’s lower back and pulled him even closer, he let his hand slip lower, and brought his lips closer and closer till they were almost touching. Then he stopped. “Go make your call.”

 Majima laughed his shrill, loud laugh, and stepped back. “See, ya do get me.” 

“I’m getting there.” Kiryu replied warmly. He liked this game.  

 Majima looked quickly away. “No, damn it! Don’t look at me like that, you’ll turn me all gooey again.”

 Kiryu stepped forward again and grabbed Majima’s shoulders, giving his best scowl. “Make your phone call, Mad Dog.”

 The grin he got in return was lecherous. “Get yer hands off me before this dog drops to his knees.” Majima practically growled. This wasn’t just electricity, this was fire. An electric inferno, wrapped in this strange game Majima had gotten him into. 

 Kiryu wrenched him forward and kissed him, hard and messy and searing hot. 

“Fuckin’ hell.” Majima said when Kiryu pulled back. 

 Kiryu tried not to smile. He loved how easily he was able to affect him. “You drive me crazy.” he said, keeping his voice deep and hoping that wasn’t too sappy. 

 Majima shoved him away with a shrill laugh. He flipped his phone open again and dialled, walking a couple steps away. After a moment, he yelled “Nishida!” into the phone. Kiryu left him to it. He needed to hang up some laundry to dry on the line behind the house anyway. 

 After about fifteen minutes, Majima’s voice grew near. 

“Yeah, just a damn second. I told ya, I had to find him.” Majima’s head peeked out the back door. “Here. Talk to the big guy.” He shoved his phone into Kiryu’s hand. 

“Yo, Kiryu.” A familiar voice said once he had the phone to his ear. 

“Patriarch Saejima. How have you been settling in?”

“The world’s a different place, but it’s a helluva lot easier to navigate it on top of the streets instead of in the sewers underneath ‘em.” Saejima said.

“Heh. I’m sure.” Kiryu said. Majima walked across the small yard behind the house, holding up part of the disassembled wrestling ring that lay in the corner. 

“He might not’ve let on, but my bro sure  needed this vacation. Nishida and I’ve got everything in control over here, so if he gets it into that fat head of his that he needs to come runnin’ back for my sake, don’t let him.”

 Kiryu smiled. “No problem. He’s been a good guest so far.”

 Majima was still wearing that mad grin, and hadn’t put on a shirt. His tattoos looked vibrant in the overhead sun, and it was hard to look anywhere else. He stuck out his tongue in a lewd display when he noticed he was being watched. Kiryu had to look away. 

 Through the phone, Saejima’s laugh boomed. “He was usually pretty good when he’d to crash at my place back in the day. You should ask him if he remembers the time he dropped all the beer cans.”

“I will. How’s Daigo?”

“He ain’t what I expected from Dojima’s son, especially after that brawl we had up on the tower. He’s no pushover, but he ain’t got that nasty streak his pops had.”

“Yeah.” 

“I can see why ya put him in charge, he’s a good kid, and he’s growin’ into the roll.” 

“I’m glad you think so.” Kiryu said. His anger had long cooled, and he worried about Daigo sometimes. Not enough to get in his way by contacting him, but still. It was nice to hear that he was doing well from Saejima, who had no reason to lie. 

“He’s got nothin’ but good things to say about ya. Majima too, but mostly you.”

“Did you want to talk to Majima again?”

“Nah, he’s heard what I had to say. Just wanted to say Hi. Take it easy, Kiryu. Don’t put up with any of his shit.”

“Heh. It’s nothing I can’t handle. See you.”

 The second Kiryu ended the call, Majima was in his face. “What’d he say?”

“He told me to ask about the time you dropped all the beer.” Kiryu said. He’d finished with the laundry, and was ready to go inside. 

 Majima tilted his head, thinking. Then he snorted. “Shit, that was a few lifetimes ago.” he said, following Kiryu back inside, keeping a hand on his arm as they walked. “I was seventeen, eighteen maybe? Still had both peepers, so I got less of an excuse for bein’ clumsy.”

 Kiryu shut the back door and reached for Majima’s hand. He took it as Kiryu led him into the kitchen. “Sorry. I forgot I was going make lunch.”

“Still dazed?  Did I get ya good?” Majima asked, looking delighted. 

“Yeah. You got me.” Kiryu said, opening the fridge. Majima leaned over and kissed him from the other side of the door. Kiryu wiped a drop of saliva off his lip. “You were telling me a story.”

“Right, so Saejima had just got his first apartment where he didn’t have sketchy roommates, and he was real proud of it. So this was right after…” he trailed off, looking more somber than he had all morning. “Shit.”

 Kiryu shut the fridge and put a hand on Majima’s shoulder. 

“I’m fine.” Majima said, stepping away. Kiryu didn’t like that answer and grabbed him into a hug. Majima groaned in protest but didn’t pull away. After a moment he spoke again. “She was a good kid. I was such a shithead and she was the sweetest gal. As good as any sister.” His voice was monotone, but Kiryu could tell there was real feeling there. 

“I’m sorry.” Kiryu said. He still felt a lot of shame for his part in Yasuko’s death. He’d been trying not to think about it, but knew it had to come up sooner or later. 

“I know. You’ve been real good to me, Kiryu-chan.” Majima said, his face pressed against the side of Kiryu’s head. 

“We don’t have to talk about this.” Kiryu offered. 

 Majima looked at him and shrugged. He’d been wearing his eyepatch less and less while they were alone. It made his expressions softer and easier to read. 

“It’s fine. I haven’t told this story in twenty-five years. It’ll be good to get it out, ya know?”

 Kiryu squeezed his shoulder. “Yeah.”

“Don’t look at me like I’m fragile.” Majima said firmly, “I’m fine.”

“That’s not what I’m doing. You lost somebody, and I care about you. That’s it.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima peered closely at him as if he had to make sure. “I’m not used to this.” he said after a moment, looking apologetic. 

“Neither am I, but I won’t lie to you.” Kiryu said. “I promise.”

 Majima smiled, “I’m gonna make ya slap me again.”

“No you’re not.” Kiryu said, turning back to the counter. Majima held him from behind as he got their lunch together. 

“I really do love you.” Majima said against his back. 

 Kiryu was beyond happy to hear that. “I love you too.”

“I was talkin’ to yer ass.”

 Kiryu smiled. “Hmm, maybe I do want to slap you.”

“You can slap my ass anytime.” Majima said, resting his chin on Kiryu’s shoulder. 

“Heh. Maybe later.”

 Majima held him tighter and laughed in his ear. “Yer gonna wear me out, aren’t ya, Kiryu-chan. Didn’t think that was possible.”

“I’ve never..” Kiryu started, unsure of how to say the words, before deciding on blunt honesty, “I’ve never had this much sex in one week before.”

“Really?” Majima asked, as if he’d said something absurd, “How could anybody be with you and not want to jump your bones all the time?”

“I haven’t had a lot of steady relationships.” Kiryu replied. That was an understatement, but he didn’t elaborate. 

“And now you’ve hitched yer ride to a sex-crazed, one-eyed demon.” Majima growled in his ear. 

“Heh. Yeah.”

“Eh? That’s all ya got to say?”

“Was that supposed to surprise me?  I know who you are.” Kiryu said, turning and handing him a bowl of what was mostly leftovers from last night’s feast.

 Majima looked away and smiled. They sat, with Majima so close he was almost in his lap. Kiryu might have been annoyed by it, but Majima looked so happy that he didn’t mind. A few bites in, Majima remembered he was telling a story. 

“Did Saejima tell ya why he joined up?”

“To get money for Yasuko’s kidney transplant?”

“Yeah. So this was a day or two after the surgery. Yasuko was still in the hospital recovering, but it all went good. So Saejima was happy, and I convinced him to have a party at his new digs.”

 Majima paused to eat. He looked somber and… wistful maybe? Kiryu still wasn’t sure about some of his expressions. 

“He had a lot more friends than me at that point cuz I kept picking fights, but I told a few people, and so did Saejima. There were also these two shady fucks from Saejima’s clan, who kept bringin’ in flats of beer.” Majima smiled, “So by midnight, the place is crammed because word’s spread about the free booze. I’m talkin’ shoulder to shoulder of young Tojo guys in their first flashy suits. I think that was the night I learned how to shotgun a beer.”

“I tried doing that once. I didn’t like it.” Kiryu said. He could almost hear Nishiki’s laugh as he sprayed beer all over his clothes. He frowned at the memory.

“Yeah, that doesn’t feel like yer style, but it’s a fast way of gettin’ drunk, and I wasn’t a fan of bein’ sober back then.”

 Kiryu wanted to ask why, but knew that might shut down the whole conversation, so he kept eating and waited for Majima to continue. 

“So by six in the morning the place has mostly cleared out except for me and the  two other guys I was still playin’ a drinking game with. By some miracle, nobody’s puked on the floor, but the place is a sty. Piles of beer cans everywhere. Then the phone rings. Saejima was passed out on the floor but I got the phone in his hand. Turns out it’s one of his family’s officers screamin’ about how some new kids stole a bunch of beer from their office.”

 Majima paused to take another mouthful. “So this officer says he heard we had a party, and he’s got guys comin’ by, and there better not be any of that stolen beer around. Saejima’s about the grumpiest bastard ever when he’s hungover, and he starts tearin’ into me that it’s all my fault and I gotta get rid of the evidence.” 

 He leaned into Kiryu’s shoulder. “I only know that part ‘cause my bro liked tellin’ the story. It was a blur at that point cause I was still drunk from drinkin’ all night, but the hangover was comin’ in strong. Dumb kid shit.” He rolled his eye and smiled. “So, good bro that I am, I start gathering the beer into garbage bags, and I end up with four giant bags of cans. The officer’s guys are coming up the elevator as I’m tryin’ to get to the stairwell but I can’t see straight. Real sitcom level antics.”

 Kiryu chuckled. “Did they catch you?”

“Nope. Made it into the stairwell in the nick of time, then fell flat on my ass on the other side of the door and blacked out. If I’d taken a couple more steps I’d have gone head first down the stairs.”

 Majima laughed, “So Saejima calms down the guys, and they leave after he shows them it was just a regular party and everybody was drinking cheap convenience store beer and not the good, stolen stuff. When he finally comes lookin’ for me, he wakes me up at the top of the stairs and scares the shit out of me.” 

 After another bite, Majima continued, looking genuinely happy now. “Now this part I remember pretty clearly. I wake up in a fuckin’ panic, and start kickin’. I connect with the bags, which of course ain’t tied up or nothin’. At least a hundred beer cans go crashing five flights down these narrow concrete steps, and it’s about the loudest noise we’d ever heard. With the hangover, it was like gettin’ kicked in the head over and over.”

 Kiryu winced at the thought. “Did you pick up the cans?”

“Saejima said he’d throw me down the stairs if I didn’t, so yeah. It took forever.”

 He laughed to himself, then turned back to Kiryu. “It’s weird talkin’ about this. I spent half my life not talking about him, knowing someday he’d get out and come after me. Was damn sure he’d kill me.”

“What?” Kiryu asked. 

 Majima shrugged. “But hey, I’m still kickin’, and I can even rehash old stories now. With you. With swollen lips from kissin’ ya so much. It’s a brand new world.”

“You were sure he’d…” Kiryu trailed off. He hadn’t even considered that Saejima would be out for blood. He didn’t get that impression when they’d first met, but he also hadn’t known his story at the time. 

“Don’t worry about it. It’s over now.” Majima said, looking away. 

“All the time I’ve known you, this has been hanging over your head, hasn’t it?” Kiryu asked. 

 Majima looked visibly uncomfortable. “Yep.”

“I wish I’d known.”

“When was I supposed to tell ya?  Between fights?”

 Kiryu shrugged. “I don’t know. I’m glad you two worked it out without...” 

 It made him sick to think about. He always tried to keep the past in the past, but there were days when something would remind him of Nishiki and it felt like all his old wounds reopened. He thought about what Majima must have gone through over the years and it made him feel even worse. 

Majima’s arm curved around his back and he rested his head on Kiryu’s shoulder. “We’ve both been through some god-awful shit, huh, Kiryu-chan?”

“Yeah,” Kiryu sighed. “Saejima said he had things in control, and that you shouldn’t rush back.”

“He told me that too.”

“So don’t.”

 Majima laughed and kissed his neck. “Yeah, okay. If that’s what you want, I’ll hang around for a while.”

“Good.” Kiryu said. “At least another week would be nice.”

“I think I can swing that. Might have to make a few calls, but yeah. Probably not more than another week though. With the construction stuff I need to authorize a bunch of shit, and Nishida won’t forge my signature anymore. A lot of stores in the Hills are already open, but the tower is finally done, and we’re havin’ a full grand opening next month. Plus there’s a bunch of Tojo shit I gotta keep an eye on.” Majima sighed heavily, his head still on Kiryu’s shoulder, “I’d rather be here.”

 Kiryu held him around the waist a little tighter. 

“Do ya know the one thing that really pissed me off the last time I saw ya?” Majima asked, “The day I got out of that cell?”

“No. What?” Kiryu asked.

“It’s that my head was on your shoulder for two whole hours and I don’t remember a second of it.”

“Heh. Then I guess that means you were right.”

“About what?”

 Kiryu smothered a smile and braced himself, “I have turned you into a sap.”

 Majima wrenched away like he’d been burned, then tackled Kiryu down to the floor. “Take it back!” he yelled as Kiryu laughed at him. “Get yer ass back outside and I’ll show ya who’s a sap, ya sexy bastard.”

 Kiryu grabbed Majima’s face and kissed him. Majima laughed against his lips, then leaned all his weight on Kiryu and kissed him breathless.

Chapter 16: Friday Evening

When kids got home from school, Majima announced that he wanted to teach the boys a recipe. 

“They’ll like that.” Kiryu said. 

“You’re a part of this too, Kiryu-chan. I’m gonna put ya to work. They don’t call me Goro ‘Head Chef’ Majima for nothin’.”

 An hour before they usually ate, Kiryu and the four boys gathered in the kitchen for their lesson.

“All right, men. Why do we want to learn to cook?” Majima asked, hands on his hips. 

“Uh, to impress girls?” Mitsuo asked. Taichi nodded sagely, but the two younger boys didn’t look enthusiastic.  

“Yep, good answer, but not just girls. Everybody’s impressed by a guy who can cook. Girls, friends, bosses, you name it. Plus, ya don’t wanna be livin’ off nothin’ but cup noodles at twenty-four.”

 Or thirty-seven, Kiryu thought. He often wished he’d learned to cook earlier, because it had been a huge adjustment when Haruka came into his life. 

 Majima seemed in his element. He threw a vegetable into the air and caught it. “Who can tell me what this thingy is?”

“Bok choy!” Shiro said. 

“And who can tell me the first rule of usin’ a knife?”

“Uh..”

 Majima smirked. “Rule one is don’t cut yer fingers off.”

 Kiryu spoke up. “What’s rule two?”

“Rule two: don’t cut anybody else’s fingers off.”

 The kids laughed, and Majima continued with more rules. He joked around, but had a lot of useful tips. Things that seemed obvious, but Kiryu hadn’t ever thought to do, like setting all the ingredients out on the counter before starting, or peeling ginger with the edge of a spoon.

 They were halfway through their lesson when Kiryu realized how much of it was for his benefit rather than the kids. It irked him at first. Majima could have just told him how to do these things, but he swallowed his pride, and was glad he did. This was good for the boys, and it helped him too. Before long they had an impressive chicken stir-fry that hadn’t taken any longer to prepare than a regular meal. 

 The boys were happy about what they’d made, and Majima promised at least one more lesson before he left. Kiryu decided a pat on the shoulder wouldn’t be too intimate a gesture, and did so as he thanked Majima. Majima responded with what he now recognized as a wink, and helped dish out the food. 

“So, tomorrow’s Saturday. What do ya get up to on the weekends around here?” Majima asked once they’d all dug in.

“Riona and I want to go to the bookstore in the afternoon.” Ayako said. 

“I’ll go with you.” Koji chimed in. 

“I just want to go swimming.” Haruka said. 

“Swimming’s good.” Majima said with a nod. 

 Kiryu thought about it. He liked having the kids around, but he’d miss his mornings alone with Majima. “If the weather holds out maybe we should have a fire on Sunday night.”

 A loud discussion about marshmallows followed. Haruka turned to Kiryu. “Maybe we could invite Saki?”

“Good idea. I can call them tomorrow.”

 It was another warm night, and after dinner, the kids ran around on the beach before bed, excited to be done with school for the week. Kiryu sat between Haruka and Majima on the sand, drinking a beer and looking up at the emerging stars. 

“I guess they’re too young to set off  fireworks, huh?” Majima asked. 

“Yeah, that’s way too dangerous.” Kiryu said. 

“When I was about Haruka’s age I knew a kid who always had stuff like that. I remember us thowin’ firecrackers at each other at the park.”

“Did you get hurt?” Haruka asked. 

“Nah. I was fast and good at dodging. Set the other kid’s jacket on fire once. He got in a lot of trouble.” Majima chuckled at the memory. “Wonder what happened to him.”

“Maybe a firecracker got him.” Haruka said. 

 Majima laughed loudly. “Yeah, probably.” He turned to face her. “Yer alright if I stick around for another week, Haruka-chan?”

“Of course! Especially if you keep helping out with the cooking.” 

 Majima nodded, “Those boys are quick learners. Not as quick as you, but give ‘em time.”

 Haruka soon ran off to join a game of tag with the others. Kiryu took a deep breath and lit a cigarette. He hadn’t felt this calm in a long time. 

 Later, when he turned off the last light in the house and laid down with Majima at his shoulder, that calm feeling washed over him again. Majima sighed against his skin.

“It almost don’t seem right, feelin’ this good.” Majima said, rubbing his satin-covered leg overtop of Kiryu’s. 

“I know.” Kiryu replied. 

“It’s gonna be a helluva struggle makin’ it through the weekend. I was just gettin’ used to our red hot mornings.”

“I was thinking the same thing.”

“I found yer fishing spears in the back. Do we need to go to some special place for that or can we do it here?”

“So long as the kids are far enough away, then we can fish here. It’s best either early or at dusk, so it just depends on when you want to wake up.”

“I feel like it’s risky to oversleep if I’m this close to ya, and I ain’t ready to go back to the other side of the room. It’s lonely over there.”

“Good thinking. We’ll go spear fishing in the morning.”

“Hell yeah. I haven’t stabbed anything in way too long.”

“You uh…” Kiryu started, then changed his mind and trailed off. 

“I what, shouldn’t stab anything?”

“No. Well, probably not, but…” Kiryu said, feeling sheepish, “that’s not what I meant.”

“Then wha- wait, were you tryna make a dirty joke?”

“Yeah.”

 Majima held him closer, his quiet laughter reverberating through both of them. “Well? Go on.”

“Forget it. I screwed it up.”

“Don’t get embarrassed on me, Kiryu-chan.”

“I’m not embarrassed.” Kiryu said, although that wasn’t entirely true. “I’m just not as good at this as you are.”

“It takes practice.” 

 Kiryu paused. “You can practice stabbing me anytime.”

 Majima chuckled. “Not bad, but with our history, be careful what ya wish for.”

“Hmm, yeah. I could do better.”

“How bout,” Majima started, then deepened his voice in a bad impression of Kiryu’s, “Majima no nii-san, you don’t need a tanto to stab me.”

“I don’t sound like that.” Kiryu said. 

“Ohhh Majima. Won’t you stab me with your biiiig-”

“Okay, that’s enough.” Kiryu said. He tried Majima’s method of kissing to shut him up, which was effective, even if Majima did keep laughing as he did.

 Majima pulled back. “Yer not actually mad, right? It’s harder to tell when I can barely see ya.”

“I wouldn’t have kissed you if I were.”

 Majima sighed, clearly content. “Okay. I’ll be good, Kiryu-chan.”

“Good. Then on Monday… let’s be bad.”

“Ooh, there ya go.”

 Kiryu chuckled and kissed him again. He couldn’t keep his hands away from Majima’s hair, and from the way Majima melted against him, Kiryu knew he liked it too. They stayed like that, silently holding each other, till sleep overtook them both.

Chapter 17: Saturday Morning

 The wind made the surf rougher than usual, which made the water murky, and difficult to see through. It was also agitating the fish. They would take extra patience to catch. 

 Taking a deep breath, Kiryu sunk into the water, spear at the ready. The salt water stung his eyes but he was used to the feeling. He swam forward slowly, disturbing the water as little as possible. He was far out. If he surfaced, he could reach the sand below if he stood on his toes, but only just. 

 A school of tuna appeared just ahead. It was rare to see them in such shallow water, and rarer still to see so many of them. Kiryu inched forward. The closest, largest tuna was just out of range, but if he were extra careful, and waited till just the right moment, it would be enough to feed them all for days. Or better still, he could sell it to one of the merchants at the market, and get enough money to keep everyone fed for a week. Kiryu aimed. Slowly. Carefully.

 Even fully submerged, the banshee-like shriek was loud in his ears as Majima threw his spear, scattering the fish. He flailed after them, grabbing the spear and swinging it around like a bat, shouting garbled curses through the water. 

 Kiryu surfaced and wiped his eyes. Majima’s face popped out of the water a second later, spitting water, his goggles making him look like a big bug. 

“Those were maguro.” Kiryu couldn’t have kept the irritation out of his voice if he tried. 

“Big wriggly bastards, huh?” Majima said with a laugh. 

“I almost had one before you scared them off.” 

“Don’t sound so serious. We’re havin’ fun, ain’t we?”

“They’re worth a lot of money.” 

“So? If we can’t stab one today I’ll buy ya one. Hell, I’ll get ya one for each kid.” Majima replied, adjusting his goggles. 

“I don’t need you to do that. I could’ve…” Kiryu tried to let it go. They had a fridge full of food, and there was no shame in going back empty handed. 

 Majima swam closer. “Hey, what’s goin’ on?”

“Nothing.” Kiryu said. 

“Kiryu-chan?”

“I almost had it. That’s all.”

 Majima pulled his goggles up and blinked at him. There were rings around his eyes from the goggles’ tight fit. Kiryu snorted a laugh. “It looks like you’re wearing pink glasses.”

“I didn’t pick ‘em cause they were pretty.” Majima said, rubbing underneath his good eye. 

 Kiryu took a deep breath, annoyance melting away. “Ignore me. Let’s keep going.”

 Majima touched his arm under the water. “Don’t think I’m capable of ignoring ya, it’s not in my wiring. But if ya want me sneaky, I can do that. They’ll never see me comin’.”

“No, you’re right, this should be fun. I… know I’m not the best cook, but I’m good with fish. I thought-”

“Kiryu-chan, were ya tryna impress me? Cause that ain’t somethin’ ya ever gotta worry about.”

 Kiryu shrugged as best he could while treading water. 

 Majima handed him his spear so he could get his goggles back into place. “The only thing ya gotta worry about is the shark.”

 Kiryu watched, fighting a smile, as Majima bared his teeth at him. He asked the question Majima obviously wanted him to ask. 

“What shark?”

 Majima took a deep breath and dove down, grabbing Kiryu around the waist. Kiryu held the two spears with one hand, keeping the tips up and out of the water, as Majima’s mouth met his navel, nipping at his skin.

Kiryu had to laugh. He took a deep breath and dropped down, reaching for Majima’s face. He kissed him, still under the water. Nothing more than a firm press of their lips together, before Majima rose up to breathe. Kiryu stayed under. He’d show Majima he wasn’t the only shark. Kiryu grabbed Majima’s hip and pulled himself close. 

Movement. Just past Majima, another school had gathered. They were too small to be tuna, but they were big enough. Kiryu swam forward, bringing the spears with him. Above, he heard a noise of protest as he passed, but he kept going, using the current to push himself along till just the right moment.

 When he surfaced, he raised the spear that held his skewered catch. It wasn’t a tuna, but it would do. 

 Majima’s jaw dropped.“Hah! Couldn’t help yourself, could ya?” He grinned. “Fine, I’m impressed.”

 They swam a little further in till they could stand with their shoulders out of the water. Majima took the second spear back from Kiryu. “You’re always impressive, ya stubborn idiot,” Majima said, “I don’t give a shit how many fish ya catch.”

 There was no fire behind his words, just a smile that made Kiryu’s heart flip. “Thanks.”

“I should get us another one, right? That guy won’t feed all of us.”

“It will if I make soup. I need to take this in. Do you want to come with me, or stay out here.”

“I’ll come with ya, but I want another try at this soon.”

“Sure.”

 They waded back to shore together. Majima kept grabbing at Kiryu under the water, making him laugh, till it grew too shallow for him to get away with it. 

“I forgot to ask yesterday. Are you alright if we have the Ryudo guys over tomorrow night? It would probably just be Patriarch Nakahara, Saki, and Mikio.”

“It’s yer place, Kiryu-chan. Ya don’t gotta ask my permission.”

“I want you to be comfortable. If I were in your shoes I’d feel like I had to keep my guard up.”

 Majima smiled at him almost shyly. He’d taken off the goggles again, and the pink circles around his eyes looked downright cute. 

“You’re so damn… considerate.” Majima said warmly. “Yer gonna make me melt into the water.”

“Is that a good thing?”

“Yep. And I’ll be fine. Not sure about that  yellow haired guy we met at the office. He looked like he’d piss himself if I stood too close to him.”

“That was Mikio.” Kiryu said, tossing Majima a towel. From across the street a stampede of children was heading their way. 

“Uh oh. We got company.” Majima said, bouncing on his feet like he was preparing for a fight. He handed Kiryu his spear, then waved to the approaching hoard. “Can they all swim?”

“Izumi is still learning and needs to stay in the shallows, but the rest of them are strong swimmers.” Kiryu said. He raised his voice, “Nobody goes in the water before putting on sunscreen.”

“We already did, Uncle Kaz! Haruka wouldn’t let us leave the house without it.” Koji yelled back, still running towards them. “Whoa.” he added, coming abruptly to a halt after noticing Majima’s tattoos.

“Oh, right. Take a look.” Majima said, turning around so the kids got a full view of his back. He tossed his towel down on the blanket they’d set out earlier.

“That’s a hannya, isn’t it?” Riona asked as the curious children gathered around. 

“Yep.”

“It’s so cool.” Mitsuo said.

“Does it go down...” Koji started, before trying and failing to hold in a laugh. 

 Majima turned back around, a wide smiled on his face, hands on his hips. “Well? Go on. Ask me if I got tattoos on my butt.”

 More laughter. 

“Do you have tattoos on your butt?” Eri asked loudly. 

“Yeah, I got tattoos on my butt!” Majima replied, even louder. 

 The eruption of giggles made Kiryu laugh. 

“Did it hurt? Uncle Kaz said his hurt a lot.” Ayako said.  

“Oh, it hurt. Especially the parts with less meat between the skin and bone. Down the spine was real bad.” he knocked on his collarbone, “Here was rough.” 

 Majima took a step back and put his goggles back on. “Now, who wants to see how far yer Uncle Goro can throw a kid into the ocean?”

“Me!” several of the kids said at once. Majima ran back into the water with the kids and started tossing them in. Haruka came up to Kiryu and took the spears so he could finish drying off. She was wearing the straw hat he’d bought her when they’d first moved down to Okinawa. 

“This is a nice big one.” she said, looking at the fish. “Are you going to make soup?  I can help.”

“No, you should take it easy. Thanks for getting them all ready.”

“If you’re sure.” Haruka said. “Shiro is still at the house reading.”

“I’m sure. Go have fun.” Kiryu said. Haruka nodded. She set the hat gently down on the blanket and took off towards the waves. Kiryu took two steps away, but looked back in time to see Koji flying into the water. Majima then picked up Izumi. 

 Kiryu was about to intervene but Majima threw her directly up in the air and caught her. She hugged him around the neck, and stayed there as Majima yelled orders to the other kids, who were now trying to throw each other.

 It was an energetic scene, one Kiryu never wanted to forget. It was tempting to throw the fish away and go running out to join them, but after going to the trouble of catching it, he wasn’t going to let it go to waste. 

 Shy, intellectual Shiro wasn’t the sort of kid Kiryu thought would be interested in gutting a fish, but he’d really enjoyed Majima’s cooking lesson, and wanted to learn more about the technical aspects of preparing food. Between the two of them, they put together a hearty meal. 

 After setting the outside table, Kiryu sent Shiro to grab everyone. Fifteen minutes later they all sat down. Most of the kids were still in their swimsuits but were at least dry. Majima still just wore trunks, with a towel over his shoulders. He didn’t look concerned that the kids were being too comfortable with him. He was leaning forward, elbows on the table, as Eri and Izumi poked at his back, counting the sakura blossoms.

 Kiryu put the large bowl in the middle of the table. 

“Smells good.” Majima said. The kids agreed, talking over each other as Kiryu dished out the soup. 

“Thank Shiro too, he did as much work as I did.” Kiryu said.

 He was excited for them to eat. He’d used some of Majima’s suggestions and it had been really helpful. The kids were more enthusiastic about the food than usual and it made Kiryu happy. 

“There’s somethin’ about fresh fish, ain’t that right, small fry?” Majima was saying to Izumi, who sat to his right. She nodded, mouth full. Majima turned to Kiryu and smiled. “You were right, it was enough to feed all of us. I’m gonna need yer recipe, Uncle Kaz.”

 Kiryu nodded and looked away. The warmth in Majima’s eye made him too happy to hold his gaze. He happened to look in Haruka’s direction and found her staring at Majima, a curious expression on her face. Kiryu wasn’t sure what that meant. She then looked at him and smiled brightly. Kiryu hesitantly smiled back. 

 It was probably nothing, but it made him feel uneasy, enough to keep him mostly quiet through the meal. The kids were talking about going back out to swim some more, and after they helped him clear the plates and reapplied sunscreen they all ran back across the street, even Shiro, who took his book and the beach umbrella out with him. 

 In the kitchen, Kiryu was frowning to himself. Majima clapped him on the back. “What’s wrong? Still got tuna on the brain?”

“I don’t know.” Kiryu said, still trying to get his thoughts in order. Majima gave him a hard look so he tried to smile. “I’m not trying to keep anything from you, I just… don’t know. Nothing’s wrong.”

“Okay,” Majima replied. They were alone in the kitchen but he still lowered his voice, “but if I’m fuckin’ up somehow, ya gotta tell me. I’m tryin’, but I’m still me, and-”

“It’s not that at all.” Kiryu said, barely above a whisper, “You’re doing great. The kids love you. I guess I wish that I didn’t have to hide that.. I do too.”

 Majima dramatically spun away from him. “Shit, Kiryu-chan, ya had me worried.” he said with a laugh. He spun back and shoved Kiryu. 

“Don’t worry…” Kiryu said, “Goro.”

Majima discretely squeezed his hand, then they went out to join the kids. 

Chapter 18: Saturday Night

 Saturday evening was nice and relaxed. The kids, exhausted from swimming and running around, were more mellow than usual. After dinner, they pulled the table to the corner of the room and gathered pillows and blankets in front of the TV.

 The kids who had gone on their afternoon trip to the bookstore came home with a DVD, an animated movie called Ponyo. There was usually a long discussion or argument to get everyone to want to watch the same thing, but when Majima said he was interested, all the kids agreed. Kiryu wondered if he could use that to his advantage. Maybe he could convince Majima to talk about how much he liked brushing his teeth. 

 Kiryu was looking forward to sitting back and watching a movie. They’d spent a lot of time on the beach, and not that he’d ever admit it, but it always made him sleepy. He tried to get Majima’s attention to give him an out, but he was flanked by Riona and Mitsuo. The two of them had gone to see this movie with friends when it came out a couple of years ago and they were now telling Majima all about it.  

 Kiryu sat down between Majima and Mitsuo. When he finally caught Majima’s eye, he just smiled. Kiryu liked that he could tell he actually wanted to watch the movie just by a look. He was getting more confident in his Majima-reading skills.

“You’ll like this one, Uncle Kaz.” Riona said from the other side of Majima, “The art is really good.”

“Ehh? Is Uncle Kaz into art?” Majima asked, leaning back to look at Kiryu. 

“He’s really good at painting!” Mitsuo said. “He helps us with our manga sometimes, and anytime there’s stuff with lots of little details, he makes it look waaay better.”

 Majima gawked at Kiryu. “How am I just hearin’ of this?”

“And he used to paint these little cars, and he even helps us paint our nails.” Riona said. Kiryu wasn’t sure whether to stop this conversation or not.  

 Majima chuckled. “Ah, of course, his little cars. Wait, used to? Not any more?”

 Riona shook her head. Mitsuo piped up again. “They all got crunched when they knocked down our house.”

“Oh.” Majima said, real concern on his face. “That’s a d- a darn shame.”

“We all lost things that day.” Kiryu said, “But we salvaged and rebuilt, and we’re all safe.” 

“Yeah.” Majima agreed, looking between the two kids, “And now ya got me on the case. It won’t happen again.”

 That was a good enough answer for the kids. Ayako sat down on the other side of Kiryu, and Haruka was already surrounded by the rest. Taichi put the movie on, then somersaulted onto a pile of pillows. To his delight, the other kids erupted into laughter. 

 The kids stayed mostly silent throughout the movie, a rare thing. Kiryu looked at their little smiling faces, then at Majima,  who looked just as invested in the movie. With the way the room had been set up, he’d ended up on Majima’s left, which let Kiryu look at him without being noticed.

 Even with the eyepatch in place, it was easy to see how relaxed he looked, leaning back on his hands. It wasn’t that long ago that Kiryu would never have dared to look at him for so long. 

“Ooh, that’s a big lady.” Majima said, making the kids laugh at the giant magical woman on the screen. He looked over at Kiryu and gave him such a dazzling smile that Kiryu had to look away. He couldn’t believe that his life had led him to this, but he was so grateful it had. 

 Kiryu looked over and met Haruka’s gaze. She was smiling at him again. He smiled back before she turned her attention back to the movie. There was no way to write that off as a fluke this time. Did she know? And even if she did, was he ready to have that conversation with her? With anyone? 

 Less than a week ago he’d barely been able to admit to himself that he could be attracted to a man. Kiryu had never been much for introspection. If he were, his life would probably have gone in a very different direction. Opening up to Majima had changed so much so fast. While he was grateful for the change, there was still a lot he wasn’t thinking about. Things he would probably have to deal with sooner or later. 

 Kiryu frowned, deep in thought. If Haruka suspected, and was bothered by it, she wouldn’t have smiled at him, right? He could take solace in that, at least. He’d have to talk to Majima. He could help him figure out what to do. Kiryu just had to figure out what was exactly. He could put it off for a day or two. Tomorrow would be busy enough.

 The end of the movie caused a flurry of excitement. The younger kids all took turns shouting out quotes and describing the parts they liked best. Ayako, who had picked the movie, looked thrilled that she’d made them happy. 

“You made a great choice.” Kiryu told her.

“Thank you. I liked it too.” she said. Ayako was always shy when being praised, but she was getting better at accepting compliments. Kiryu wished he could be a better teacher for her when it came to that, but he was the same way. All he could do was make sure she knew how valued she was by the rest of the household. 

 When the kids went to bed, Majima followed Kiryu for one last smoke out on the beach. 

“Do I look burnt? My face’s got that tight feeling.” Majima asked, poking his cheek. 

“You look a little pink, but it’s not bad.”

“Hmm, even with my fancy sunscreen. I hope my ink still looks okay tomorrow.” Majima rubbed his hand over his chest. 

“It’ll probably be fine. I’ve been a lot more burnt out here without any damage.”

“That ain’t a good thing. Ya got great skin, Kiryu-chan. Ya gotta take care of it.”

 Kiryu nodded. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

“Ya better.”

 He thought about tomorrow. Patriarch Nakahara had agreed to come by after dinner. Kiryu had invited his neighbours over as well, but this was before he’d seen that curious smile of Haruka’s. He took a deep breath. He’d let those thoughts go for now. There was no point worrying. He’d just have to be extra careful tomorrow. 

“That movie was cute as hell. I liked the kid’s mom.”

“That makes sense. She also drives like a maniac.”

 Majima snorted. “Get up. I’m gonna throw ya in the ocean.”

 Kiryu smiled and stared up at the full moon, as Majima laughed at his own joke. 

Chapter 19: Sunday, 1:15am

Notes:

This chapter contains references to Like A Dragon: Ishin! but has no spoilers for the game.

 Even though there was a lot on his mind, sleep came quickly to Kiryu that night. He lay on his back with Majima draped over him, lips against his collarbone. Content, warm, and safe, Kiryu drifted off. 

 

 In his dream he sat up. The room belonged to him, but it wasn’t his room. It was too narrow, too sparse, too cold. 

 Too quiet. 

 There was no blue glow of his clock radio, no distant rush of the waves, or the faint hum of the old fridge. All he could hear was the door in front of him slowly sliding open.

 Moonlight poured into the space, looking identical to one of the street lights just south of the Champion District. The man at the door was illuminated in the glow. He was deathly pale, with bloodstained clothes, and a wild smile that didn’t reach his single eye. Was he dressed as a zombie again? 

“What are you doing here?” he asked the figure in the doorway.  

“I can’t visit a friend?” 

 The door shut, but the moonlight stayed in the room, giving plenty of light to see the unsettling pale man take two swaying steps towards him. In his hand was a large bottle of sake. The voice was familiar, as was the way he moved, but this wasn’t Majima.

 He knew this man, but couldn’t remember his name. He stirred up something that he hadn’t felt in a long time. A conflicting combination of respect and distain. The man took another step forward. His eye was beyond wild. Majima’s madness was at least partly a show. Even at his most bloodthirsty, he wasn’t.. whatever this was in front of him. Not just a mad dog. A wolf. 

“It’s late.” he replied. “I’m trying to sleep.”

“Don’t give me that look.” the pale man said, pointing at him. He took a long swig straight from the bottle, sake splashing across his chin. He didn’t bother wiping it away.

 He felt a rush of anger, but he couldn’t help watching the sake drip down the man’s bare chest. “What do you want?” he asked, eyeing the blood spattered sleeve with equal parts admiration and disgust.

“So high and mighty.” the man muttered, following his gaze. “Pretendin’ like yer hands are any cleaner than mine. Like we ain’t the same,” The man kneeled down beside him, “like ya don’t feel that fire.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” he said.

“Yer a shit liar.” the man replied.  He shrugged off his bloody haori. “There. Now we’re both squeaky clean.”

“You’re still filthy. I can smell the blood from here.” he said sharply. He had to be harsh. It was the only language this man understood. His pale skin shone in the strange, artificial moonlight, strong and lean. He should find him ugly, but he didn’t. He hadn’t for weeks. Had he ever, really?

 The man who wasn’t Majima snickered and started pulling off the rest of his clothes. “You asked for it.”

“I never asked for this.”

“It’s all you’ve been askin’ for. Seen it in yer eyes for days, and I’m gonna give it to ya. Call it a present, since we’re such great pals.”

“You shouldn’t be in here.” he said, closing his eyes, as if that would stop his own reaction to what was happening. 

 He felt a hand on his collarbone. The rough, cracked skin of the pale man’s palm scraped across his chest as he climbed into his lap. “I keep hearin’ shouldn’t, but I ain’t hearin’ no. Tell me to leave, and I’ll be on my way.”

 He couldn’t respond, he knew he wouldn’t be able to hold back a moan if he tried. He shouldn’t want this. Not with him. He couldn’t afford this kind of distraction from his task.

 The man rumbled out a laugh. “I’ve been ready ta get on top of ya since the day ya joined up, but ya never sleep in this room of yers.”

“Shut up.”

“Fuckin’ make me.” the pale man growled, roughly shoving his back to the floor, and slamming a hand beside his head, grinning maniacally. He grabbed a handful of his hair and pulled. “I’m gonna burn ya to a crisp, and yer gonna love every second of it, Hajime-chan.”

 Was that his name? It didn’t sound right. The man wasn’t wrong. He wanted it. Wanted him. Despite everything, he was turned on. Desperately so. The man’s face, sallow and fierce, leaned down till their mouths were almost touching. He smelled like sake, blood, and.. was that gunpowder? The fire crackled between them. No, not just between them. All around them, igniting the floor next to his futon.

 He should do something! The fire, suddenly very real, was spreading up the walls. The whole room was burning, and he didn’t care. The pale man cackled and squeezed his thighs. They were going to get killed, but that didn’t seem important right now. He raised his head. As soon as their lips touched…

 

 Kiryu woke up with a gasp. Breathing hard, he sat up quickly. Majima grunted as he was displaced. 

“Haw? What happened?” Majima grumbled. He sat up and put his chin on Kiryu’s shoulder. “Nightmare?”

“Sort of.” Kiryu said. The dream had been so vivid. The emotions felt so strong. He conflict, the attraction, the fire. He took a breath, finding comfort in the blue light of the clock radio, and the faint smell of Majima’s cologne.

“Need some air?” Majima offered. Kiryu could feel the heat radiating off Majima’s chest. He shifted where he sat, aroused and flushed. Majima’s proximity was electric as always.

“No. I need… I really need to kiss you.”

 Majima pushed him back, not quite like in the dream, but near enough. His head hit the pillow, and Majima, warm and firm, leaned over him and brushed his lips against Kiryu’s. 

 It wasn’t enough. Not by a long shot. Kiryu’s arms clamped down around Majima’s back, keeping him close, nudging at him till Majima was on top of him. He loved when Majima was on top of him. 

 When Kiryu rolled his hips, Majima’s hand squeezed his shoulder. The kiss intensified as they gripped each other, all tongues and teeth. This Majima was better than the one from his dream. This one belonged to him.

 Majima pulled back, taking measured breaths, then leaned his mouth close to Kiryu’s ear. “Can ya be quiet for me?”

“Yeah, yeah I think so.” Kiryu said, and took a slow, quiet breath. 

“Hmm, I think so ain’t a yes. Gonna have to prove it, Kiryu-chan.” Majima whispered, slipping back to his side. That wicked playfulness in his voice was always so exciting. 

“How?”

 Majima ran the soft back of his hand across Kiryu’s chest. “What would you be doing if I wasn’t here?” 

“I’d be wishing you were here.”

 Majima chuckled softly in his ear. “That’s a sappy-ass answer, and fuck if it doesn’t make me happy.” He kissed Kiryu’s cheek. “And it’s a good start. Then what, Kiryu-chan?  What would you do if you were missin’ me?”

“I’d think of you and I’d… t-touch myself.” Kiryu whispered back.

“Show me.”

 Kiryu’s hand had been on Majima’s arm. He let it go, and moved it down overtop of his sweatpants, rubbing his hand over the material. He took a steadying breath as he did, and Majima did the same. Kiryu reached down with his other hand to push his sweatpants down. His right hand grasped the base of his now free cock, and he took another deep breath.

“You’re so hard. What were ya dreaming about?”

“You, but… some other version of you. Then the room caught on fire.” Kiryu said. The dream had faded a little, but he’d never forget that extra vicious, Majima-like man who aroused him just as much as the one whispering in his ear. 

“You told me before that ya liked all versions of me. That still true?”

 Kiryu started to move his hand. Majima was close enough that he could see the blue glow reflected in his eye. “Yes.”

“I’ll be whatever ya want me to be.” Majima asked, his hand ghosting overtop of Kiryu’s.

“I want you. Just be you.” Kiryu murmured. “You don’t have be anything else. You don’t have to be the perfect houseguest. Just be you.”

 There was a pause. “Nobody’s ever said anything like that to me before.” Majima said seriously, then cleared his throat, “yer gonna get me all choked up, Kiryu-chan.”

“I’m in love with you.” he replied. Let Majima call him sappy. He didn’t mind.

 Majima nuzzled his face into Kiryu’s neck, mouthing at his throat, before he leaned close to his ear again. “I’m gonna fuck you with my mouth.”

 So much for sappy, Kiryu thought with a smile. Majima slid down his body, till he rested between Kiryu’s legs. He could feel his breath over his groin. Majima kissed Kiryu’s hand, then stuck out his tongue, letting Kiryu rub himself against it. Oh, being quiet wasn’t going to be easy, but it was worth it to try. Majima’s tongue flicked, and Kiryu took another deep, slow breath. Then Majima enveloped him inside his hot mouth. 

“Goro.” he whispered, still getting used to using his first name, “that feels so good.”

 Majima squeezed his thigh. “Be quiet, gorgeous.”

“Heh, okay.” Kiryu said. It was easier that way anyway. 

 Majima’s mouth was on him again, alternating between licking the underside of his cock from base to tip, and sucking him into his mouth. Kiryu put his arm across his mouth to keep himself quiet. He could do this. He could keep himself in control. 

 That control was tested when Majima pulled away. Kiryu’s eyes had adjusted just enough to see Majima twist his hips to the side and pull his own pants down so he could grasp hold of himself. Kiryu bit his lip as Majima planted a wet kiss on the tip of his cock, and swirled his tongue. 

 He couldn’t look away, peering into the dark, trying to make sure he wasn’t missing anything in the dim light. He touched Majima’s hair, and Majima’s free hand shot out and held his hand against the back of his head, closing Kiryu’s fingers around his hair. 

 Majima stopped. Kiryu hesitated for a moment before gently pressing on the back of Majima’s head. It only took the lightest of touch for Majima to move his head down, his tongue undulating as he took him deep in his mouth. He made that low, contented sound, making Kiryu shiver. Majima stopped again. Kiryu gently tugged on the hair he held, and Majima pulled his head back up, humming his approval again. He was at Majima’s mercy, but Majima had given him control. It made him light-headed, and harder than ever. 

 Kiryu had to let his head fall back to the pillow. He guided Majima’s head with his hand, keeping his other arm in front of his face to keep himself quiet. Part of him wanted to get this done quick, but he also didn’t want it to stop. It was too good. He grit his teeth as the waves of pleasure washed over him until suddenly it was too much to handle.

“Come back up here.” Kiryu said reluctantly, touching his shoulder.

 Majima paused, then crawled back up and rested his head on the pillow next to Kiryu. They faced each other. “You okay?”

“It’s too much,” he said, trying to quietly catch his breath, “too good. I can’t be quiet like that.”

“What would work for ya, darlin’? Ya wanna jerk each other off?”

“Yeah.” Kiryu said, and kissed him.

“I think we’re outta lube.”

“I have some. It’s not as nice as-”

“Don’t care. Get it.” Majima whispered urgently. 

 Kiryu crawled over to his closet and dug behind a few boxes, feeling blindly till he found his own bottle. He returned to Majima, who took it from him as Kiryu settled back on his side and pulled his sweatpants all the way off. 

 Majima took Kiryu’s right hand and kissed it, sucking at the skin. Then he opened the bottle and squirted a large amount in the middle of his palm. With his own hand, he rubbed Kiryu’s, palm to palm, till their hands slid together, slow and sensual. Kiryu took a deep breath. How was he able to make such a simple gesture feel so incredible? Kiryu touched his forehead to Majima’s, as Majima pulled his hand down.

 They kissed as their hands found each other, muffling any noise they were tempted to make in each others mouths. Majima’s touch was firm and hot, keeping the same pace as their forearms brushed against each other. Kiryu felt another full body shiver. Majima smiled against his mouth, then licked Kiryu’s lips. He was an expert with that tongue. When it next flicked out against his mouth, Kiryu trapped it between his lips and sucked, making Majima’s breath hitch. 

 Majima’s lips travelled across his cheek to his ear. “I love you.” he whispered, voice strained, “I love you so fucking much.”

 Soon they were smothering their breathing in each others shoulders. Kiryu never thought a mutual handjob could feel so intensely intimate. He was teetering on the edge, and he could feel Majima pulsing underneath his hand, hard as steel. 

 The tension built further and further. Kiryu grit his teeth. He had to let Majima go so he wouldn’t squeeze him too hard, then he had just enough sense to turn quickly onto his back so he wouldn’t mess up the futon, just in time for him to reach his peak, legs bending involuntary. He kept his head turned to the side, moaning softly into Majima’s open mouth as he spent himself over his stomach. 

 Kiryu, still recovering, reached for Majima again, but his hand was swatted away. Majima tugged on himself quickly, keeping their mouths together in a hard kiss until he turned his hips and came overtop of Kiryu’s abdomen with a barely audible whimper. 

 Majima’s forehead touched his shoulder as he carefully caught his breath. Kiryu groped for the tissue box in the dark, and started cleaning them up. Majima let Kiryu move him and rest his head back on the pillow, as Kiryu took his hand and wiped it clean. 

 Majima had come apart, and was pliant in his arms. It made Kiryu smile. Nobody else got to see this side of him. He knew Majima enough to know he’d never let his guard down like this without knowing he’d be safe. It made Kiryu’s self-confidence soar.  

 Once they were as clean as possible and back in their pants, Kiryu pulled Majima to his shoulder, and couldn’t help chuckling. 

“What?” Majima asked, sounding half-asleep already. 

“I like when you go boneless like this.” Kiryu said. He held up Majima’s arm and let it fall back lifelessly back on his chest. 

“S’yer fault. Ya stole all my bones.” Majima murmured. 

“I love you. Get some rest.”

“Mmm, Kiryu-chan.” Majima whispered, and immediately fell asleep. 

Chapter 20: Sunday Morning

 Kiryu woke up out of a far less intense dream that faded as soon as he woke up. Majima was softly snoring, lying on his back, limbs spread, but he was sideways, half off the futon, with his head on Kiryu’s stomach. How had that happened? He was fast asleep, but he couldn’t be comfortable like that. His head was twisted sharply to the side, like he’d been watching Kiryu in his sleep. 

 Kiryu was about to wake him up, but he hesitated. Majima’s pyjama pants had slipped down past his hipbones, just barely covering him. His abdominal muscles rose and fell as he breathed, skin pink from the sun, lips parted. Even asleep he looked so powerful. What a man. Beautiful and dangerous, and his. 

 Kiryu reached out and touched his hair, pushing it back. “Goro.” he said.

 Majima stirred, and blinked at him. “Why am I over here?” 

“I was going to ask you that.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima cracked his neck and climbed back to Kiryu’s shoulder, his usual spot. “Yer so good to me, Kiryu-chan. Last night, not just the end of the night, but just hangin’ out with you and the kids... It’s, ya know, important to me. If I was any less selfish I’d run the hell away for your own good.”

“Don’t you dare. I’ll chase you down if you try.” 

“Hmm. Can’t picture you chasin’ me down the street. Maybe if ya had a bat, and some nice leather pants.” Majima teased, rubbing a finger against Kiryu’s chin hair, “Fuck, you’d look great in leather.”

“You look great right now. I had such a nice view that I didn’t want to wake you up.”

“Ooh, and that voice of yours.” Majima said, with an exaggerated shudder. “You’ll call me after I leave, won’t ya? I’ll go into withdrawal if ya don’t.”

 Kiryu didn’t want to think of him leaving, it popped the happy bubble they were currently living in. “I’ll call you every day if you want, every day till you come back to me.”

“I told ya I’d do just about anything for ya. Hoppin’ on a plane ain’t hard. And ya already agreed to visit me too, right?”

“Yes. Probably not for at least a month or two. It’ll be easier to get away in the summer when the kids are out of school. Our neighbours can keep an eye on them for a few days.”

“Two months.” Majima said flatly. 

“It won’t be easy, but we’re going to make this work. My mind’s made up.” Kiryu said, holding his cheek. 

 Majima looked at him, his face so full of raw vulnerability that it shocked him. “We really are doin’ this, aren’t we?”

“We’re supposed to be together.” Kiryu insisted. “We’ll figure the rest out.”

“Brand new world, right?” Majima asked with what might have been a nervous laugh. Instead of answering, Kiryu kissed him, holding his face between his hands.

 Majima smiled against his lips. “I’ll spend the whole month or two planning what I’m gonna do to ya when ya get to my place. Might have to keep you at the apartment the whole time.”

“Don’t start with that kind of talk, we have to get up soon.” Kiryu said, “But that sounds great.”

“It really does.”

 Majima’s smile was tinged with sadness. Kiryu had a feeling it didn’t have anything to do with the time apart. He held Majima’s head between his hands again. “I mean it. I’ll find you, and chase you down.”

 Majima closed his eye. It took a while before he answered. “I’ve been through a lot, Kiryu-chan. I’ve… put people through a lot. I’ll tell you about it sometime, and after that, this whole plan of ours might change, but even so… shit.” he blinked furiously, as if to fight off a tear, “I’ve never felt like this before. I’ve never been… loved like this before. I ain’t givin’ that up if I can help it.” His rolled his watery eye, then wiped it so hard he may as well have hit himself in the face. 

“Me neither.” Kiryu said. He held Majima’s head to his chest and buried his face in his hair. Kiryu didn’t know exactly what Majima was talking about. Maybe it should have concerned him, but he didn’t care. “I’m not letting you go.” he whispered, repeating the words they’d both said to each other. A promise. He squeezed his hand over the snake that coiled around Majima’s arm. 

“The hell did ya do to me?” Majima said, his face nuzzling against Kiryu’s throat. “Yer lucky I ain’t wearin’ makeup. I’da gotten it all over yer pretty neck.”

“Next time you wear makeup I’ll be more careful.”

 Majima’s answering laugh was loud, till he suddenly stopped. “Shit. Sorry. Gonna wake up the little ones.”

 Kiryu looked at the clock. “It’s about time we all got up. We have stuff to do today.”

“Right. We’re entertaining tonight.” Majima said. He sat up and stretched, wiping his eye again. “Fuck. Sorry ‘bout all that.”

 Kiryu stood up and hauled Majima to his feet. “Nothing to be sorry for.” he said. Kiryu knew saying any more would only make him more uncomfortable. It was strange enough to hear Majima apologize for anything. He kept his face neutral as that single right eye squinted at him, as if he wanted to make sure Kiryu meant what he said. Kiryu reached for him and shoved his shoulder.

 Majima laughed, quietly this time, then yawned. “I might be draggin’ my feet today. Someone kept me up last night.”

“I’ll buy you a coffee when we go into town.” Kiryu said, kissing his cheek. 

“I might need to get slapped first.” Majima joked. 

 Kiryu pulled Majima’s head down against his shoulder, holding him close in a tender hug. Then he drew his hand back and smacked Majima’s ass. Majima made a muffled noise of surprise, then started laughing. He pressed his face down harder against Kiryu’s shoulder to keep quiet, but it wasn’t working very well. He was shaking from trying to hold back his laughter and it made Kiryu laugh too. He clapped a hand over his mouth but that only made the urge to laugh worse. It made Kiryu feel as giddy as Majima sounded. 

 Majima finally pulled back and rubbed his cheeks. “If they weren’t awake before, they are now. Ya got a real cute laugh, Kiryu-chan.”

“I’ve never heard that before. I thought I had a manly laugh.”

“Ya do. That’s why it’s so cute.”

“That doesn’t make any sense.” Kiryu said, pulling a tee shirt on. 

“Cute and manly can coexist.” Majima replied, digging through his bag. “That’s you to a tee, Kiryu-chan.”

“It is?”

“Yep.” Majima said, holding up two shirts, a busy green one, and one with red and black stripes. “Pick one for me.”

“I like the red.”

 Majima smiled fondly. “Course ya do.”

Chapter 21: Sunday Afternoon

 They didn’t end up taking the train till the afternoon. They brought Taichi and Izumi with them, the two who hadn’t gone with the other kids into town the day before. Taichi pulled the cart behind him, a job he took very seriously, while Izumi rode on Majima’s shoulders.

 Majima was wearing his sunglasses over his eyepatch again. He looked especially good today, and Kiryu had a hard time not staring. When he discretely told that to Majima before they left, he’d said it was because Kiryu had picked the shirt. 

 The red and black shirt was unbuttoned, over a black v-neck teeshirt. The sleeves just covered the edge of his tattoos, and he wore the jeans he had on the day he arrived. The chain around his neck had two strands of gold, and Izumi was currently playing with it. Kiryu remembered him wearing that double chain years ago. He’d grabbed it during a fight once. A desperate move to avoid being stabbed. That memory shouldn’t have made him smile but it did. 

“This is where I bought my wrestling mask.” Kiryu said, stopping at a store full of odds and ends. 

“Hmm… maybe I should get one, in case I ever decide to start wrestlin’.” Majima said.

“You’d be so good at wrestling, Majima-san.” Taichi said, as Majima let Izumi down to the ground. He told the kids to look for a snake, and they took him around the store, looking for the best one. After a few minutes they found a gold mask with a white snake on the side, which Majima proclaimed to be perfect after both kids modelled it for him. He bought the mask and they carried on, getting marshmallows for the fire, beer for their guests, and a few other little things. Majima bought a big pack of glowsticks, swearing them to secrecy so they could surprise the rest of the kids later. Kiryu knew keeping secrets wasn’t either Taichi or Izumi’s strong suit, but he didn’t mention that. 

 Majima snuck off to the pharmacy while the kids were distracted by the pet store they’d stopped into. With Izumi, they had to wave to each hamster, while Taichi liked looking at the fish tanks. Majima returned in time to smile at Izumi, who insisted on hefting the heavy bag of dog food in the cart by herself. Kiryu was proud her, and of Taichi for staying focused and keeping the cart with him. 

 When they came home, Haruka and Shiro had already started dinner and wouldn’t accept any help. Kiryu went outside and brought a handful of the wood from the side of the house out to their fire pit. He kneeled down to clear up the leaves and debris that had gathered there, and wiped off the stumps and logs around the pit they used as seats. 

 A shiny, metal and leather shoe appeared on top of the stump he was cleaning. He looked up at Majima, who had brought over another armful of firewood. 

“Not that I don’t appreciate the help, but don’t forget you’re supposed to be my guest. You can just take it easy.”

“I’m havin’ a good time. If I ain’t, I’ll let ya know.” he replied. 

“Did I tell you that you look really good today?” Kiryu asked. 

“No, tell me again.” Majima said with what was best described as a shit-eating grin. He motioned with his arms. “Where d’ya want these.”

“Just over there.”

 Majima put the wood down sat down on the large log Kiryu had just cleaned. He looked around to make sure they were alone and leaned closer. “Ya look real good on yer knees, Kiryu-chan.”

 Kiryu couldn’t help smiling. “I can’t wait to get you alone again.”

 Majima clapped a gloved hand on Kiryu’s shoulder. A very innocent-looking gesture that wasn't innocent at all. “Do ya like coconut?” he asked in a low voice. 

 Kiryu brushed off his knees and sat next to him. “Is that some kind of euphemism?”

 Majima chuckled. “It could be. But I meant the taste of coconut. They didn’t have any of my cherry flavoured stuff.”

“Heh, I see. Yeah, I like coconuts.” Kiryu said. He liked seeing Majima looking so happy. The sun was getting low in the sky, and his skin looked golden.

“Careful. Yer gonna give yourself away lookin’ at me like that.” Majima said, swatting his arm, “Want me to piss ya off a little? Get that hot scowl of yers goin’? You know I can.”

“Like nobody else.” Kiryu teased. “I’ll be fine. I don’t… I don’t think it would upset the kids if they knew about us, but I wouldn’t want them telling other people, or their teachers, and it’s not fair to them to have to keep my secrets.”

 He still hadn’t mentioned the looks he’d seen from Haruka. This wasn’t the best time. Maybe tomorrow, when they were alone.

“I know.” Majima said, stretching out his legs. “If you decide you want to tell anybody, I’ll be right here to back you up, but remember, when it comes down to it, our business is our fuckin’ business. Just you and me. You don’t owe anybody anything.” He knocked his knee against Kiryu’s. “And hey, I know you want to keep clear of the clan, but I’ve been thinkin’. I’ve talked to more lawyers in the last few months than I ever have, so if anything happens that puts your position here in trouble, I know a couple of real sharks who could make sure you don’t lose anything. Or anybody.”

 When Majima got serious, sometimes his accent lost its edge. With that speech, his dialect was almost completely gone. 

 Kiryu looked at him for a moment. “I hope it never comes to that, but I won’t refuse that offer just in case. This place got ripped apart last year and they barely even talked to me about it, so there isn’t a ton of oversight. Honestly, there probably should be more.” he said, and shook his head. “But thank you.”

 The lack of oversight was becoming a problem in itself. The managerial aspect of running this place was the biggest challenge Kiryu dealt with. He’d had to learn to write budget proposals, and go before a committee more than once to try to explain that the kids were all growing, and the same amount of money wasn’t going as far now that they were all eating more. He wasn’t great at that, and getting any more funding had been flat-out rejected. They were scraping by for now, but Kiryu didn’t like thinking about what would happen a couple of years down the road. Majima must have noticed his frown. 

“Remember, if ya catch a whiff of any of that kind of trouble, you let me know right away. That ain’t the sort of shit ya deal with by yourself, got it?”

“Got it.” Kiryu said, knocking Majima’s knee the same way he’d done. “I like that you’re thinking long term.”

 Majima looked out at the water. “One of us has gotta be thinkin’ of big picture stuff, dunno know why it’s me.” he grumbled. He turned back to Kiryu and pointed a finger at him, “‘Cause if I’m the voice of reason in this relationship, we’re in deep shit, Kiryu-chan.”

“Heh, I don’t know about that. You’re doing great.” Kiryu replied, pushing Majima’s hand out of his face. Relationship. He liked that Majima had used that word. 

 Majima smiled. “So here’s the plan I got so far. We have our wrestling match next weekend, Saturday maybe. That gives us enough time to plan out one helluva show. Somewhere in there we rent that speedboat, and at least one of these nights I want to take ya out drinking. Nishida got back to me and he has me on a flight a week from Tuesday.”

“I like that plan, except for the part where you leave.” Kiryu said, “And I’ve thought about it, and I’d rather save the speedboat rental money for a trip out to see you.”

“Pfft, I was never gonna let ya pay for the boat.”

 Kiryu shook his head, “You’ve already paid for way too much, I can’t-” 

“Yes you can. I know ya ain’t rollin’ in dough down here, and I know your selfless ass is probably spending all yer own cash on these kids. Besides, in the last few years, I’ve been damn good with money, if ya can believe it.”

“I can, but-”

“But nothin’.” Majima said, cutting him off again, “I ain’t independently wealthy or nothin’, but I got stacks to burn, and there’s nothin’ I’d rather spend it on than you. So you’re gonna save yer money, and I’m gonna buy ya shit.”

 Kiryu frowned, “I don’t know what to say.”

“Ya say: Thank you, Goro. Buy me a boat, Goro, and one of them slot cars, and some decent whiskey-”

“The speedboat rental is more than enough.” Kiryu said, nudging his shoulder. “Thank you… Goro.”

“Shit, Kiryu-chan, I’ve been heartbroken about yer little cars since the kids told me they got, what’d they say, crunched?”

“It’s not a big deal. It was too expensive a hobby anyway.” Kiryu said quickly. They’d lost a lot of important things that day, but it embarrassed him to think of how disappointed he was to have lost all his pocket circuit cars for the second time in his life. He had a metal lockbox in his closet where he kept a handful of valuables. He used to keep the cars in there, but Haruka and the kids had bought him a shelf to display them, not long before the house was wrecked. Now the lockbox only contained the few parts he was able to salvage. Just a set of tires, a frame, and some loose odds and ends.

“Still, I know ya put a ton of effort into those things-”

“Dinner should be ready soon,” Kiryu said, he started to stand but Majima tugged on his shirt, keeping him down.

“Hey, I ain’t judgin’. It’s okay to be broken up about it. I am, and they weren’t even my cars.”

 Kiryu had to smile. “One of them was.”

 Majima’s eye lit up, “What? Ya kept my little snakeskin car?”

 Kiryu nodded. 

“Aww, Kiryu-chan! That makes me think ya liked me or somethin’.” Majima said, kicking his legs like a child  

“Something like that.” Kiryu replied with a chuckle, “You’re a fun opponent. We should play pool again soon.”

“Yes we should.” Majima said with a contented sigh. 

“You have a beautiful smile.” Kiryu couldn’t help blurting out.

“Stop.” Majima said, drawing out the word. He chuckled and punched Kiryu’s arm. “Hey, sweet pea.” he added. 

 Kiryu was confused till he looked over and saw Eri running towards them. 

“It’s time for dinner!” she called as she ran. She stumbled over a rock, but Majima lunged forward lightning fast and caught her before she fell. 

“Careful, little one, ya almost got a face full of stump.” he said. Eri looked stunned as she was placed back on her feet. 

“What’s for dinner, Eri?” Kiryu asked.

“I don’t know, but Shiro is really happy about it.” she replied, distracted out of her shock. 

 They followed Eri to the house and sat down with the kids for dinner, which was a variation of the stir-fry that Majima had taught, except with different vegetables and tofu. Shiro looked so proud, and spoke animatedly about the changes he’d made after Majima said he had a knack for cooking. 

 It was reassuring to see Shiro like this. Kiryu had also been the quietest boy at the orphanage growing up. He’d hated it when adults tried to force him out of his shell, but he was always happy to talk about his interests.

If cooking was one of Shiro’s interests, then he’d always have something approachable to talk about. Plus it would be nice to have another hand in the kitchen. Kiryu would have to thank Majima again. He fit into their lives so well. 

Chapter 22: Sunday Night

 After dinner, Koji and Taichi, the two kids most enthusiastic about fire, helped Kiryu and Majima get it started while the other kids cleaned the kitchen. Haruka brought out their little radio and joined them, just as they heard a van down the road.

“That’s them.” Kiryu told Majima, who nodded and leaned back on his gloved hands, legs spread. He looked relaxed, but Kiryu could tell it was artificial. A show of casualness. Kiryu wouldn’t have been able to notice the difference before. He gave Kiryu a pointed look, the meaning of which was easy to understand. You’re staring. Kiryu gave a slight nod and stood up, offering a hand to Haruka. 

 The two of them went to the road to meet their guests. A young man Kiryu didn’t recognize was driving the van. Mikio sat next to him, with Nakahara and Saki in the back. Once the passengers had disembarked, the driver said a few words to Nakahara and left. 

 Mikio was even more nervous than when they’d visited the office, and stayed closer to his patriarch than Saki, until Izumi pulled him away to show him the new glow-in-the-dark stickers she’d put on the inside of Mame’s doghouse. 

 Nakahara sat down on one of the larger logs with Saki, rubbing his knee as he sat down. 

“Are ya hurtin’, Patriarch?” Majima asked. 

“No more than usual for a man my age.” Nakahara replied with a raspy laugh. “Something to look forward to when you get on in years.”

 Majima snorted. “Been a while since anybody’s called yours truly a spring chicken.”

“Bah, you boys have a long way to go yet.” Nakahara said. 

“Can I record ya sayin’ that? I got a sworn brother who keeps launchin’ these crazy accusations that I’m gettin’ old.”

 Majima turned to Mitsuo, who had just sat down beside him. “Can ya believe it?” Mitsuo’s mouth opened, but Majima held up a finger. “Actually, I don’t wanna hear the answer to that.”

“You’re not old, Majima-san, you’re awesome!” Mitsuo said loudly. 

 Majima laughed. “How ‘bout that!  Thanks, pal. Can I get that on tape too?”

 Mitsuo looked confused. “Tape?”

 Majima made a dramatic show of clutching his chest. “I think I just aged another year or two.”

 Nakahara laughed heartily, as Mitsuo helped Saki carry her backpack down the beach to where Riona and Eri were sitting with some art supplies, drawing the sunset.

 Riona, who’d lost her parents in a house fire, was less anxious around fire than she used to be, but it still made her uneasy to be too close. Kiryu always made sure she wasn’t alone on nights like these. Her interest in art and fashion overlapped with Saki’s skills, and in the past year they’d grown to be close friends. Eri as well, who used to feel awkward around the others, had bonded with Saki, and they’d helped each other be more outgoing. 

 Kiryu rose to get their guests drinks. Ayako went with him. 

“Uncle Kaz, why does Mikio look so scared of Majima-san?” she asked when they were alone in the kitchen. 

 Kiryu paused. There were certain things the kids knew he didn’t talk about. Ayako was thirteen, gentle and sweet. Kiryu knew there was no way she would ever follow his footsteps into a life of crime. She was also smart enough to understand that a man like Majima had done more in his life than just own a construction company. 

“Majima-san does the same work I used to do.” Kiryu said carefully. Ayako nodded. “And he’s been doing it for a lot longer than I ever did. He’s in a position of power in his organization, and he does have a… reputation for being scary, but he’d never hurt you or any of our friends.”

“I didn’t think so. When you told us he was coming I thought he’d be mean, but he’s been so nice. Maybe we should tell Mikio that.”

 She had so much compassion. “You’re always thinking of others. That’s really admirable.”

 Ayako turned her head away as usual. “Thank you.” she said quietly. 

“Let’s deliver these and talk to Mikio.” Kiryu said. 

 With the drinks delivered, Ayako took Kiryu over to Mikio, who was down on the other side of the beach with Izumi, playing fetch with Mame. 

“How are you, Mikio?” Kiryu asked. 

“Kiryu-aniki. Thank you for inviting me.” he said stiffly.

 Kiryu handed him a bottle of beer, which he accepted with a formality at Kiryu had rarely seen from him. The poor guy was sweating. “Ayako and I want to make sure you’re able to relax while you’re here.”

“Thank you, Aniki, you too. Uh, I mean, I will.” he said with a forced smile. 

 Kiryu smiled back. “He’s unarmed, if that helps.”

 Mikio did not look reassured. “Oh, man. I’m being rude, aren’t I. I should show deference and respect but instead I’m playing with the dog. Do you think he’s mad at me?”

“No. I guarantee he doesn’t care about that.”

“Majima-san is so nice.” Ayako added. “He’s been really good to all the kids, right Izumi?”

“He bought us glowsticks! But don’t tell anybody, it’s a surprise.” Izumi said in a loud whisper. 

 Kiryu smothered a laugh. He had a feeling all the kids knew about the glowsticks by now. He looked back at the fire in the distance. Majima was looking at him. He said something, then bared his teeth in a frenzied grin, eye wide. Koji and Haruka, sitting next to him, also started making scary faces in their direction. Kiryu and the girls laughed. Mikio looked mortified. 

“‘S a joke! Get over here.” Majima yelled, before everyone around the fire started laughing. 

“Come on. You’ll be fine.” Kiryu said, leading his group back across the beach. 

“Okay.” Mikio said under his breath. 

 Rikiya had been the same way. He’d been in the same room with Majima a couple of times but he didn’t think they’d said a word to each other. Rikiya had needed just as much reassurance afterwards. Kiryu wished he could have been here with them tonight. 

 Nakahara motioned to Mikio as they all grew near. “Come have a seat and get warm. The weather’s changing. I can feel it.”

 Mikio sat down stiffly between Izumi and Ayako. 

“I ain’t gonna bite ya,” Majima said, “I’m on vacation. Plus the boss here wouldn’t like it.”

 He grinned at Haruka, who nodded. “Right.”

“Please excuse my rudeness, Patriarch Majima-san, Sir.” Mikio said, bowing as best he could from where he sat. 

“Hey, I’m on vacation,” Majima repeated, firmly but not unkindly, “knock it off with the formalities. Majima-san works just fine.”

 Mikio nodded. While he stayed mostly silent after that, he at least looked less afraid. Nakahara asked the kids about school, and after Kiryu reminded them to talk one at a time, they all got to tell him what they’d been doing since he’d last visited.

 The marshmallows brought the rest of the kids over. They were all around the fire now. Kiryu did his best to keep the peace considering there were only so many roasting skewers, and ten kids who all wanted a turn. 

 It helped when Majima had Taichi distribute the glowsticks. The kids who weren’t occupied with marshmallows ran around the beach, swinging their arms and yelling, just as their next-door neighbour appeared. 

“Miyara-san.” Kiryu said, standing up, to greet the elderly man, “Come have a seat. You remember my friend Majima from the other day?”

 He’d introduced them while Miyara was out watering the plants one evening. Majima, still on his best behaviour, had been nothing but kind. As Miyara sat down on a log next to Mikio, Majima nodded respectfully, and sat up a little straighter. 

“I hope we haven’t been too loud.” Kiryu said. 

“The children would need to be a lot louder than that to bother these old ears.” 

“Don’t give them any ideas.” Kiryu said with a smile. Ayako jumped up to offer him a drink.

“I have a megaphone I could bring next time.” Majima told Haruka.

“No thank you.” she said seriously, but there was laughter in her eyes. 

 The night passed in a friendly, easygoing way. It ended soon after dark, as it was a school night, but Kiryu was happy, and everyone looked like they’d had a good time. Mikio even looked more like his usual, happy-go-lucky self.

 When the van came back to pick up their guests, Kiryu saw Majima having what looked like a heart-to-heart with Mikio. He was heading in their direction when Haruka ran up and pulled him over to the other girls. 

“Saki has something she’s like to give to Majima-san, but she’s a little nervous.” Haruka said. 

 Saki held out a piece of paper as they approached. Kiryu knew what it was before he saw it. The sketch of Majima was well-detailed, she must have been working on it the entire night. It was a portrait of his face, angled to show his right side. He looked happy and carefree, with a slightly crooked smile. 

“You just keep improving, Saki. He’ll love it.”

 Saki smiled and nodded. 

“I told you.” Riona said, patting Saki’s arm. 

“Let’s go together.” Haruka said, and led Kiryu and the girls over to Majima, who had just sent Mikio on his way. 

“Nii-san?” Kiryu called to him. 

“What’s goin’ on, ladies?” Majima asked the group. 

“Go on, it’s okay.” Eri said. 

 Saki closed her eyes and held out the sketch. 

 When he saw the drawing his jaw dropped. Majima took it and examined it closely, and once the shock wore off he looked thrilled. “It’s me! Look at this, Kiryu-chan, she even got my good side!”

 He showed Kiryu, but didn’t let go of the paper. “She did a great job.” Kiryu agreed. 

“See? We told you he’d like it.” Eri said.

“‘Course I like it. Nobody’s ever drawn me before. Can I keep this? I’m gonna frame it and hang it in my office.” Majima walked away, not waiting for an answer, “Hey, Patriarch, look what yer talented kid did.”

 Majima jogged over to the van to show Nakahara. Kiryu looked at Saki, who was blushing furiously, flanked by her encouraging friends. Majima returned only after showing the rest of the kids. He took a knee so he could be eye to eye with Saki. 

“Ya know, they say a picture’s worth a thousand words. This art is your voice, kiddo, just as much as what comes out of here.” Majima said, tapping his throat. “Thanks for this.”

 Saki smiled. “Thank you.” she replied meekly. Majima smiled back, an expression that matched the sketch in his hand.  

 The kids waved goodbye with their glowsticks as they van left. Then they all went back to the beach to run around again. Kiryu was fine with that. Let them burn off the energy, it would help them sleep. The light of the glowsticks made the kids look like big fireflies. Majima was still looking at his drawing. 

“This is somethin’ else.” he said under his breath, before taking it inside for safekeeping. 

 Kiryu and Taichi snuffed out the fire, and Kiryu gave them all a ten minute warning till bedtime.

 Later, when the kids were all ready to sleep, Kiryu returned to his room. Majima was sitting cross-legged, looking at the sketch yet again. 

“I can’t get over this.” he said.”It woulda been a lot easier if she drew the left side.” He tapped his eyepatch, “This has gotta be easier to draw than an eye.”

 Kiryu sighed. “You were great with everybody tonight.”

 He leaned down and kissed Majima’s forehead. Majima smiled up at him. “Ya really are in yer element out here. I love seein’ ya like this, all talkative and happy.”

“I am happy. What did you say to Mikio?” Kiryu asked as Majima put the sketch down and stretched his legs. 

“Nothin’ bad. I wasn’t gonna step on the Patriarch’s toes by disciplining his man, but I did tell the kid to work on his poker face.” Majima paused to yawn. “Don’t worry, I was nice about it. I know Nakahara keeps things casual and all, but if one of my guys looked that scared shitless in front of superiors, even superiors on vacation, I’da knocked him into next week.”

“Mikio is a good guy, and civilians love him, but he wouldn’t last long in any other family.” Kiryu agreed, “He has a strained relationship with his dad, and he looks to Nakahara to fill that gap.” Kiryu said. “Can I turn out the light?”

“Yep.” Majima said. He yawned as Kiryu hit the switch, then laid down, pulling Majima to him. “So the kid takes the Patriarch thing too literally. Happens all the time. He’s lucky he found a nice old man to look up to.”

“Yeah.” Kiryu agreed. “Rikiya was just as nervous when he was around you.”

“That was yer little buddy ya brought to Purgatory last year, right?”

“Right.” Kiryu wasn’t sure why he brought him up. He’d told Majima what had happened to him earlier that week, before they’d gone to the office. 

 Majima squeezed his arm. “Heh, well, he had more of a reason to be scared. All I did was glare at him.”

“What? Why?”

“Isn’t it obvious?” Majima asked. 

 Kiryu hesitated. “No?”

“Oh, I figured even you’d- aw shit. Well uh…” Majima paused, “I didn’t like the way he looked at ya.”

 Kiryu frowned. “He... I know he looked up to me.”

“Kiryu-chan. He was clearly into you.”

“No he wasn’t.” Kiryu snapped. 

 Majima started to argue, but instead stopped and went still. Kiryu thought back. Rikiya wasn’t like that. He giggled about going to the strip club, and flirted with women, and bragged about his ex-girlfriend who’d moved off the island. He was tough, and sure, he looked up to Kiryu, but it wasn’t like that, was it? 

 Then he remembered how tightly he’d held his arm when they had to go to that trashy love hotel that only booked couples. How devoted he was. How he’d followed Kiryu all the way to his death. Kiryu knew he didn’t have the best track record for noticing these things, not like Majima. And wasn’t it hypocritical to think that Rikiya couldn’t be like that, when Kiryu himself, was? 

“I shouldn’t have said that.” Kiryu said, hugging Majima closer. 

“Just sayin’ what I saw. Don’t know why I assumed ya knew.” Majima said. “You okay?” 

“Fine. I just never considered that. It makes me feel worse about what happened.”

“Don’t do that to yourself. Hell, I was in the same boat he was back then, and even if you’d known how I felt and let me down easy, it wouldn’t’ve changed much. Wouldn’t’ve made me help ya out any less.”

 Kiryu sighed. “Thank you.” He forced a laugh. “I told him it was his imagination when he told me you hated him.”

“I didn’t hate him, he seemed like a nice enough guy.” Majima said, “I just glared at him, and made sure I was standing between him and you, and ignored him when he talked, and would’ve slugged him if I had the chance.”

 Majima snickered, and Kiryu shook his head, “I probably shouldn’t feel flattered by that.” 

“I could list everybody else who’s made me jealous over the years, but we’d be up all night.”

“Heh. Well, you don’t have to worry about any of that anymore.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah.”

“You smell like fire.” Majima said, moving his hand across Kiryu’s chest. “Tonight was fun. Even around a couple of people who knew me, it felt good to just be a guy instead of a yakuza. To relax, ya know?”

 Kiryu sighed. “That’s how this place makes me feel.”

“I’ll do everything I can to make sure ya never get called back to Kamurocho for business again. I promise.” Majima said. 

“Just make sure you aren’t overworking yourself.”

“Thanks, darlin’, but that’s nothin’ new.” Majima kissed his chest. “Can’t complain, though. I needed a vacation, and I got the best week of my life.”

“Me too.” Kiryu said, stroking his hair. “Thanks for staying another week.”

“Ya say that like it’s a favour. I don’t wanna go anywhere.”

“Is there anything you wanted to do tomorrow?”

“Don’t think I want to leave the house.” Majima said, his voice deep  

“Me neither.”

“Kiss me goodnight, Kiryu-chan, so I know ya ain’t pissed at me.”

“Come here.” Kiryu said. Majima pushed himself up and leaned in. His lips were warm and comforting, and he hummed that low sound that Kiryu found irresistible. Kiryu touched his neck, and moved his hand to the back of his head, rubbing his fingers against the short, fuzzy hair of his undercut. “Better?” he asked, pressing their foreheads together. 

“Much better. Maybe one more to make sure.” he said, leaning in again. 

 Kiryu took a while to get to sleep. He kept thinking about what Majima had said. When it came down to it, it didn’t matter whether Majima was right or not. Rikiya had been a good man. He’d risked his life to protect the kids. He lost his life protecting Kiryu. He was the reason Kiryu was still breathing, the reason he got to have all these happy, carefree moments.

 Kiryu wasn’t big on praying, but he sent a silent ‘thank you’ up towards the afterlife, in honour of his fallen friend. 

Chapter 23: The Second Monday Morning

 Kiryu woke up early Monday morning. A week ago he’d also woken up before his alarm, anxious for the week ahead, unsure how Majima would be with the kids, and unsure how he’d be around Majima. Today he had a week’s worth of happy memories, and the man he’d fallen in love with curled around him. It was starting to sink in that this was reality instead of a really good dream.

 There hadn’t been many times in Kiryu’s life where he had everything he wanted. It was a foreign feeling. He knew the road ahead wouldn’t be perfect. Majima still had to go back to Tokyo, and even though there was no doubting his cunning and strength, it was still a dangerous life. More and more young idiots were carrying around guns, and…

 Kiryu shut his eyes tight, trying to block out that train of thought. They had another whole week together, and Kiryu was going to enjoy it. There was still a lot he wanted to learn about his… what was Majima to him now? 

“That brow’s pretty furrowed for this early in the mornin’.” 

 Kiryu looked down at Majima’s groggy face. “Did I wake you up?”

“Nah. I’m gettin’ used to the early mornings.” Majima said. “Or maybe it’s the anticipation.” he added with a sly look. 

 Kiryu hummed his agreement and ran his fingers up Majima’s bare spine.

 Majima yawned. “Ya gonna tell me what you were thinkin’ about or do ya want me to start guessin’?”

“I was wondering what I should call you now.”

“Hmm?” Majima still looked tired. “Like, my name or what?”

“I don’t know. I know it’s not easy to tell people that we’re together, but if I could, and I was introducing you-”

 Majima shrugged, “Call me whatever ya want. Why? Ya wanna be my boyfriend?”

“I never thought of myself as ever having a… boyfriend.” It sounded weird, and didn’t feel like a strong enough term for the way he felt.

“Yer still workin’ that shit out. That’s okay. So long as yer not second guessing this-”

“No, not at all.” Kiryu said, touching his face. “I’ve been worried I’m moving too fast.”

 Majima raised himself on his elbow and shook his head. “I’m all yours, Kiryu-chan.”

 Kiryu kissed him. “You know you can use my name too, Goro.”

“But then ya wouldn’t be Kiryu-chan!” Majima said. “What d’ya want me to call ya? Kazuma? Kazu-chan? Just Kaz?” Majima paused. “Yer always gonna be Kiryu-chan to me, but I can try somethin’ else.”

“You’ve been way more accommodating than I ever expected.”

“I’m tryna make ya like me, if ya hadn’t noticed.” Majima said, poking at his chin. 

 Kiryu moved his head away. “I already like you.”

“And there’s a big part of me that’s still tryin’ to wrap my head around that.” Majima said and kissed his collarbone.  

“I’ll try harder to convince you.” 

 Majima sighed and trailed his hand over Kiryu’s chest. “I’m lookin’ forward to it.”

“I want to learn,” Kiryu wondered how best to phrase this, “I want you to teach me how to be better at um, going down.”

 Majima’s eye lit up. “Won’t take much teachin’. Yer a natural.”

“I want to learn more about you, and what makes you happy.” Kiryu said, sitting up. 

 Majima sat with him up, threw his arms over Kiryu’s shoulders and playfully shook him. “You’re what makes me happy, Kazzy.”

“Kazzy? Not sure about that one.” 

“Uh oh, that makes me like it even more, Kazzy.” Majima said, clearly enjoying himself. “C’mon, Kazzy, we got a busy day. Let’s get started, Kazzy.”

 Majima moved to get up, but Kiryu brought his arm across his chest and pushed. Majima’s back hit the futon and he chuckled. Kiryu leaned over him. He caressed the side of Majima’s cheek and smiled. “You are so beautiful.”

 Majima froze. “The hell?” 

 Kiryu let his thumb smooth over the fine lines at Majima’s temple, then moved down across his cheekbone, and over his lips. “These lips are perfect. They’re all I can focus on when you talk.”

“Oh, I see what yer doin’.” Majima said, leaning into the touch as Kiryu traced his lips with his thumb, “Yer tryna flatter me to death.”

“Not death. Just submission.” 

 Majima’s eye widened, and for a moment Kiryu wished he’d chosen another word. Then a wicked smile spread over Majima’s face, and Kiryu realized he might have stumbled on the perfect word. 

“And ya think that’s all it’ll take? Kazzy?” Majima asked, and licked Kiryu’s thumb. His fingers closed around Kiryu’s wrist, slowly moving his hand up and down, twisting just slightly. 

 Kiryu closed his eyes. This could get out of hand very easily. “We should stop.”

 Majima snickered and bit down on his thumb. “Givin’ up already?”

 Kiryu leaned down and kissed the little mole under his left eyelid. “I haven’t even started yet.”

“Oh, you are fun, Kazuma.” Majima said, drawing out his name in that deep, dangerous tone, “We’re gonna have a real good day.”

 Breakfast with the kids was calm and easygoing. They were always a little more subdued on Monday mornings. Kiryu had to stop himself from hurrying them out the door. After they left, Majima pulled him into the kitchen to get the dishes done. 

 They’d just started when Kiryu turned his head. Someone was running at full speed towards the front door. It opened a few seconds later. “I forgot my umbrella and it’s gonna rain!” Koji yelled.

 Kiryu was halfway there already, but he jogged quickly to where they kept the umbrellas so Koji didn’t have to waste time taking his shoes off. “Thanks, Uncle Kaz.” he said after Kiryu found the blue one with his name on it and handed it over.

“Can you get this one to Eri? It looks like she forgot hers too.” he asked, passing a polka dotted umbrella to him as well. 

“Okay. I’d better run.” 

“Be careful. It’s better to be a couple minutes late than to fall.”

 Koji nodded and ran back out, only slightly slower than his top speed. Kiryu turned back and found Majima leaning against the doorframe of the kitchen, smiling at him. 

“I would’ve loved to have somebody like you in my life as a kid. It don’t feel right calling a group of orphans ‘lucky’, but it’s obvious how much better their lives are for havin’ ya around.”

“I don’t know about that. I’ve made a lot of mistakes with them. This place was demolished because of me-”

“Don’t say that.” Majima said firmly. “That ain’t on you. Shit, if I’d thought for a second that Daigo’s dweeby little sidekick was capable of that, I’d’ve nailed him to the floor of his office.” he sneered, “He did a lotta dirty shit, but to fuck with these kids like that.”

“Yeah. It still makes me angry.” Kiryu said. He walked back inside the kitchen and turned the tap on. Majima stood beside him. 

“Ya never saw me with that nail gun of mine, did ya?”

 Kiryu looked sharply at him. “No.”

 Majima snickered. “Probably for the best.”

 Kiryu started washing dishes again. Back when he’d used Majima’s construction office as a home base, he’d seen a yellow helmet covered in nails stuck to the wall. He hadn’t bothered bringing it up, and Majima was probably right, it was better not to know. It wasn’t his place to try to tell him how to do his job, a job that usually required some level of violence. He’d known that all too well when he was a part of that same organization. But now…

“There’s that furrowed brow again.” Majima said. “Lemme guess. Yer thinkin’ about how ya let a criminal into yer house.”

“No. I was thinking about how much I’m going to worry about you when you’re away.”

“Pfft, ain’t nothin’ to worry about, Kaz. I’ll be stronger than ever knowin’ you’re out here thinkin’ ‘bout me once in a while.” Majima said. 

“It’ll be hard to think about anything else but you.” Kiryu said. 

“What’s that? You’ll be hard just thinkin’ bout me?” Majima crooned, leaning into his shoulder. Kiryu rolled his eyes, which made Majima cackle. “If ya say nothin’ it means I’m right.”

 Kiryu smiled and stayed silent, earning another laugh. “Damn,” Majima continued, bouncing on his feet, “did we use twice as many dishes today or what?”

“Three left.” Kiryu said, passing him a bowl. 

“I know ya can wash faster than that, Kazzy.” Majima said with a loud sigh.  

“Don’t whine or I’ll slow down.” 

“That’s mean, Kazzy! I’m supposed to be the mean one.”

 Kiryu handed him the second of the three remaining dishes. Majima grabbed it out of his hand as soon as it was offered. Despite his complaints, he was smiling as much as Kiryu. The air around them, as usual, felt charged. Kiryu thought that feeling would fade the longer Majima was around, but it only grew stronger.

 Majima was now staring daggers at him, waiting for the last bowl. Kiryu couldn’t help taking longer than usual, simply because it was funny. He drained the sink, still holding the soapy bowl, before finally rinsing it. Majima snatched it from him. “Mean.” he muttered, holding back a smile.

 Kiryu washed his hands quickly and stood behind Majima, grabbing him around the waist. Majima let out a happy sigh, but stopped mid-breath. “Did’ya just dry yer hands on my shirt?”

 Kiryu held him closer and couldn’t hold in a laugh. 

“You’re fuckin’ devious today.” Majima said. He washed his hands, then flicked water over his shoulder at Kiryu’s face. “I love it.”

“You bring it out in me.” Kiryu said, wiping his face on the back of Majima’s shoulder. Kiryu kissed his neck as he let his hands explore under the loud green shirt Majima was wearing, the one Kiryu hadn’t picked for him yesterday. “You don’t feel sunburnt. This isn’t hurting you, is it?” he added, his hand flat over Majima’s chest. 

“There ya are, back to bein’ a sap.” Majima replied, but he didn’t sound upset about it. “Don’t stop touching me, Kaz.”

 Kiryu kissed his neck again. “I’ll have to let you go to get you back to our room.”

“If ya have to.”

 Kiryu loosened his grip. Did he have to? His back might not be happy with him for this, but he knew his own strength. He leaned down, then hoisted Majima, bridal style, in his arms. Majima’s surprised laugh was loud, and he looked at Kiryu, eye wide. He held on around Kiryu’s neck, as Kiryu carefully got Majima’s large form through the door frame and into the bedroom.

“A girl could get used to this, Kiryu-chan.” Majima said, swinging his leg and smiling that genuine, dazzling smile. 

“Next time you’re a girl, I’ll do it again.” Kiryu said, letting him down on top of their futon, and walking back to shut the door.

“You keep bringing that up. Ya really weren’t joking about liking the fishnets, huh?”

 Kiryu tugged on the hem of Majima’s shirt. Majima raised his arms and Kiryu helped him out of it. “It felt like a loophole, where it was almost okay to be attracted to you in that outfit because you were a woman, and that didn’t make me, um…”

“Ah.”

“But it wasn’t the dress, or the fishnets. It was you, and I wasn’t ready to deal with that, or that I was, I mean, th-that I am…” he trailed off again. 

 Majima looked at him. His hands had been on his back, but he pulled away to look him in the eye. “You haven’t said it out loud yet, have ya?”

 Kiryu shook his head. Why was this still so difficult?

 Majima smiled kindly and kissed his cheek. “If yer anything like me, ya grew up with a helluva lot of shame around it. Ain’t an easy thing to shake.”

 Kiryu sighed, “I killed the mood again, didn’t I.”

 Majima started undoing Kiryu’s shirt buttons. “My mood’s a lot harder to kill than that. Yer a work in progress, that’s all.”

“I don’t want you thinking I’m ashamed of you.” Kiryu said, taking Majima’s hand. 

“Aw Kaz-chan, I wasn’t even thinkin’ of that. I get it. It ain’t easy.” Majima said, bringing his hand up and kissing his wrist, completely undeterred. “It’s nothin’ ya gotta put a label on right now. Or ever.”

“A-and you?”

 Majima dropped his arm and looked at him. To Kiryu’s surprise, he didn’t look disappointed. He held out his hand like he would for a handshake. Kiryu hesitantly took it. “Yo, the name’s Majima Goro. I like dirty martinis, karaoke, cheesy horror flicks, and I’m queer as all hell. I like strong men, mean women, sexy androgynous people, and more than anybody, I love this gorgeous son of a bitch in front of me.” He grinned, “How’s that.”

“Heh, I didn’t know you liked martinis.” Kiryu said, letting some of his concern melt. Majima was just as good at putting him at ease as he was at driving him up the wall. 

“I like lots of drinks. I’m gonna make ya some fancy cocktails when ya come to my place. Show ya how I can tie a cherry stem with my teeth.”

“You don’t have to do that. I already know how talented your tongue is.”

 Majima, still holding his hand, yanked him closer. “Should I put it to good use?”

 Kiryu kissed him. He kept meaning to ask if it was his cologne or aftershave that made Majima smell especially good in the mornings. He took a deep breath through his nose, drinking him in, both in smell and taste. Majima had started using the kids’ bubblegum toothpaste days before as a joke. He was apparently still using it. It made Kiryu smile. “I love you.” Kiryu said, brushing Majima’s hair back. “I know I’m not the best with words, but you mean so much to me.”

 Majima pushed Kiryu’s unbuttoned shirt off his shoulders. “Ya say that, but ya keep dropping lines so fuckin’ sexy I’m surprised my pants don’t fly right off. I already know how talented your tongue is. Fuck.”

“Oh.” Kiryu said. “I wasn’t trying to-”

“I know.” Majima replied, “You got no idea how much ya make me crazy. If ya did I’d have scared ya off by now.”

“Don’t.” Kiryu said, reaching for the button on Majima’s jeans. “I keep telling you I want to know. I don’t want you to hold anything back. No secrets, right?”

 Majima dropped his head forward and took a deep breath. “Kiryu-chan.” he murmured, like Kiryu had said something more serious than he had.

 Kiryu undid the button on Majima’s pants. They could talk more later. He unzipped the fly and pulled him forward by his belt loops so they were flush against each other. Taking Majima’s face in his hands, he licked from his cheek to his ear, then bit down on his ear lobe. A move he’d learned from Majima. 

“Mmm, and he’s back to devious.” Majima said, grabbing his ass with both hands. Kiryu kissed down his neck, feeling drunk off the smell of him already. He looked over Majima’s shoulder to the back corner of his room towards his small desk and office chair. He moved forward, guiding Majima back till he was right in front of the chair. 

“Sit.” he told Majima. 

 Majima looked at him. It looked like he was deciding whether or not to obey. He smiled and sat down slowly, running his hands down Kiryu’s chest as he did. “I’m gonna spoil ya with how accommodating I’m being, ain’t I? What happens when ya get a glimpse of my real nasty side?”

“I’ve seen your nasty side.” Kiryu said. He kneeled down and put his hands on top of Majima’s knees, then pulled them apart. “I can handle it.”

“Don’t know what yer planning here, but why don’t ya go get that coconut stuff I bought. I was gonna taste test it in the store but the old lady behind the counter kept starin’ at me.”

“Heh. I love you.” Kiryu said, smiling as he imagined Majima and some elderly woman glaring at each other over lube. “Where is it?”

“Side pocket, on the left.” Majima said, pointing to his bag. 

 Kiryu unzipped the pocket and found the plastic pharmacy bag next to Majima’s  red dagger, and the one he’d taken from that man on Thursday. He snorted a laugh when he removed the bottle. “This is huge.”

 Majima laughed and motioned for him. “Biggest one they had! I didn’t wanna run out, and I kept thinkin’ of what ya said the other day. About how this was the most sex you’d ever had in a week.”

 Kiryu put the bottle on his desk and knelt down again. “And?”

“And it made me sad, because I didn’t think we’d had all that much. Thought ya might wanna break yer record this week.”

 Kiryu looked at the large bottle again and smiled. “I’m not keeping track. It doesn’t have to be a competition.”

 Majima leaned in, “Ooh, but it could be.” He kissed Kiryu, then laughed. “I’m jokin’. I wanna go quality over quantity, but there’s room for both, ain’t there, Kaz-chan?”

 Kiryu nodded and kissed him again. Majima liked turning things into games, and Kiryu was learning that he did too. Kiryu let his hands travel up Majima’s thighs to the top of his undone pants. Majima planted his feet, raised his hips and let Kiryu pull down both his jeans and underwear. He always wore bright underwear, and the neon green ones he wore today were no exception. Majima removed his eyepatch and threw it over his shoulder onto the desk. 

“I was worried you’d keep me waitin’.” Majima said, lounging back, naked in the chair in front of him, half-hard and looking hungry.  

 Kiryu kissed his chest. “I want you to tell me what to do, and what you like.” Kiryu said, his lips brushing against Majima’s skin. “Put me to work, Goro.”

 Majima’s knees squeezed against his sides, before his legs locked around Kiryu’s back. “You really are a dream come true, Kaz. Keep doin’ this for a minute.”

 He moved his hands over Kiryu’s shoulders as Kiryu continued to kiss his chest. Kiryu liked the slightly different consistency of the skin under his chest tattoos. It felt good against his tongue. He licked at the border of the ink, following along the edges of the design. Majima took a deep breath, and guided his head closer to his right nipple. Kiryu looked up and gave what he hoped was a devious look. 

 Majima swore under his breath and touched his cheek. Kiryu pressed his tongue against his nipple. It hardened under the touch. “Good?” he asked. 

“Real fuckin’ good.” Majima replied. 

 He swirled his tongue around the nipple, put his lips around it and sucked. Majima breathed a little harder. Kiryu dug his hands into Majima’s thighs. 

“Yeah.” Majima said again. “Don’t be shy. Get yer teeth in there.”

 Kiryu tentatively closed his teeth around the hard nub. Majima made that low noise he liked so much. Kiryu swirled his tongue and took a larger bite, still careful, but he got the whole nipple in his mouth this time. Majima’s held his head against his chest, fingers massaging his scalp. Kiryu went back to using his tongue, kissing the skin, making sure he wasn’t hurting this beautiful, hard body he was allowed to play with. 

“Okay?” Kiryu asked between kisses. 

“The other side’s feelin’ a little neglected.”

 Kiryu moved to his left, repeating what he’d done to the right. Majima groaned when Kiryu bit down, just slightly harder than before. He was too nervous about hurting him to go any harder, so he licked the lower part of Majima’s pectorals and down his abdomen, licking at every hard muscle, kissing every scar, till he reached his navel. 

“Now I’m a little- ah!” Majima said as Kiryu kissed below his navel. 

 Kiryu pulled back. “Sensitive?”

 Majima hesitated. “Ticklish. And I ain’t one of those people who says stop but actually likes it. I fuckin’ hate being tickled.”

“Okay. Tell me where else so I can avoid it.” Kiryu said, taking his hand and kissing the palm the way Majima had the other night, sucking at the skin. 

 Majima’s shoulders relaxed. “Yer a good man, Kaz. Just here,” he pointed just below his navel, “and the bottom of my feet.”

 “I’ll stay away.” Kiryu said, and because Majima still looked hesitant, added “This isn’t something I’ll use against you.” He touched Majima’s face. “Your trust is important to me, I won’t betray it.”

 Majima pushed himself forward and kissed him on the lips, a slow, passionate kiss. Then he swiped his tongue against Kiryu’s teeth, and the kiss grew far more intense. 

“I need my mouth on you.” Kiryu said breathlessly, moving his hands up Majima’s thighs. 

“Yer knees okay?”

“I’m fine. I want to taste you.”

 Majima leaned back again. He took Kiryu’s right hand and placed it on his lower abdomen. “I don’t want you thinkin’ ya can’t touch me. Just keep it hard over here, ‘kay? No light touches.”

“Got it.” Kiryu said, keeping his hand firm against his skin, Majima had a lot of old scars there, just below where his belt would have sat. Faded, criss-crossing lines that weren’t noticeable unless he was this close. The sort of scars a man who endured a year of torture would have. He couldn’t think about that now, it would make him furious. Kiryu channeled that anger into a need to take care of him, to make Majima feel good. He moved his hand lower till his fingers met pubic hair. 

 Majima groaned. “You could tug on the hair a little, if yer still takin’ requests.”

 Kiryu repositioned himself, moving closer to the chair and sitting back on his heels. He let his fingers close around a small handful of well-groomed, wiry hair just above the base of his shaft. He watched Majima’s face as he pulled. In front of Kiryu’s face, Majima’s dick twitched, and he couldn’t help leaning in and licking it. Majima clutched the armrest beside him. 

 Kiryu grasped the base and pressed his tongue along the thick vein on the underside of his shaft. Kiryu looked back up. “Show me what you want me to do.”

 Majima caressed his cheek, watching him intently. His hand closed over Kiryu’s, tightening his grip. Kiryu watched his face till Majima nodded. “Yeah. Hard like that. Any harder’ll be too much, but this is perfect. Stick out yer tongue, gorgeous.”

 Kiryu obeyed. Still holding his hand overtop of Kiryu’s, Majima rubbed his cock along his tongue. Kiryu met Majima’s eye and curled his tongue just slightly. Majima’s mouth fell open and he took a shaky breath. Kiryu licked his lips and kissed the tip, letting his tongue flick out, trying to mimic what Majima had done to him the other night. 

“Kiryu-chan.” Majima’s voice rumbled. Since he offered no further instruction, Kiryu opened his mouth wider and took him in. Majima’s whole body shivered. His hand loosened, still on top of Kiryu’s. Kiryu followed his lead, then bobbed his head, earning another moan. He continued in earnest, moving his hand up and down in time with his mouth. 

“Fuck, Kazzy. Ya got me so hard with that hot mouth.” Majima said. 

 Kiryu pulled his mouth away to breathe, still moving his hand. “I like you hard and naked at my desk. I’m never going to sit here again without thinking of you.”

 Majima threw this head back and laughed joyfully, ending on a strangled gasp as Kiryu flicked his tongue again. “That fucking voice!” Majima said. Kiryu hoisted Majima’s leg up and over his shoulder and kept going. “Mmm, that voice of yers could get me off by itself.”

 Kiryu would have to remember that. He did promise to call Majima after he left. He shooed those thoughts away for later. While he appreciated all the little noises Majima was making, he wasn’t telling him what to do. Kiryu found Majima’s hand and placed it on the back of his head, thinking back to what they’d started the other night.

“Really, Kiryu-chan?” Majima asked, sounding excited to the point of frenzy. Majima’s other hand touched his cheek, and moved his fingers along his face till he held his head in both hands. 

 In response, Kiryu stopped moving. He wasn’t sure he’d understand the appeal of this, but as soon as Majima began to push and pull Kiryu’s head, it was like a brand new kind of fire started to burn. He moaned, and Majima gasped loudly in response.

“Ya like this?” Majima asked in that deep tone, “You like when I use you like this?”

Majima didn’t stop to let him answer. “Mmhmm.” Kiryu said, his lips still around his cock. He took Majima in deeper, as deep as he dared without choking himself. That fire was burning him from the inside. 

“Ya like when I fuck yer gorgeous mouth? This turnin’ ya on, Kazzy?”

 He was able to meet Majima’s eye, just briefly. Majima shuddered. Kiryu tried to relax his muscles, his jaw, anything that would keep this going. 

“Ya wanna touch yerself, Kaz?” Majima asked, his voice a low growl. His leg was still over Kiryu’s shoulder, and he tensed his thigh muscles. 

 Kiryu had to pull back for a second to catch his breath. “Yes.” he gasped. Majima kept hold of his face, smoothing his hair, and wiping saliva off his lip. Then Kiryu had an idea. “Yes, if you’ll let me.”

 Majima’s dangerous smile had never aroused him more. “Fuck, Kiryu.” Majima  growled. “Not just yet, gorgeous. I’m gonna let ya, but not just yet.”

 Kiryu ran his hand up Majima’s other leg, and Majima lifted it, so both legs were over his shoulders. He pulled Majima’s hips so he was closer to the edge of the vinyl chair, then leaned his head back in. Majima’s fingers wove through his hair and held on. Kiryu took his thighs in his hands, moving his fingers closer to Majima’s ass. Majima grabbed his cock and put back into Kiryu’s mouth, making a soft noise as Kiryu moved his tongue. 

“Kiryu-chan.” Majima murmured, as Kiryu relaxed his neck. Majima held his head again, fingers curling through his hair. He moved slower this time, but still intense. Kiryu felt that hot, electric feeling shoot right between his legs. “I wanna ride ya, Kaz. Wanna sit in your lap and ride till ya pop.”

 Kiryu moaned in agreement. He would have been happy to wait, to take care of Majima first before thinking of himself, but as soon as Majima told him he couldn’t touch himself yet, that was all he wanted to do. He shifted where he knelt, half-consciously looking for friction, anything to ease the burning desire that was building fast within him. He looked up at Majima. As always, that sharp eye missed nothing. 

“Seems cruel to make ya wait.” Majima said, letting his head go and touching his cheek. “Take yer pants off, Kazzy. I hate that you’re still wearing ‘em.”

 Kiryu quickly dropped his pants to his knees. He rested his head in the crook of Majima’s thigh as he did, breathing hard against his skin as Majima squeezed his legs around his neck, stroking his hair as Kiryu caught his breath. 

“You’re so good to me.” Majima said. “Nobody’s ever been so good to me.”Majima said. His sentence ended in a moan as Kiryu nuzzled his face against his groin. “What do you need, Kazuma?”

“I need to make you cum.” Kiryu said, too aroused to be embarrassed. 

 The noise that escaped Majima was gratifying. Kiryu took him in his mouth again, leaving thoughts of pleasuring himself behind. He had a job to do, and he was determined to do it right. He pulled Majima to the very edge of the chair, then moved both hands between Majima’s legs as he bobbed his head. He kept one hand cupping his tightened balls, while his other hand caressed lower, massaging the tender skin around his hole. 

 Majima was mumbling now, sitting low in the chair with his head back. Half-sentences that started with “Never thought…” and different combinations of Kiryu’s name, before trailing off, incomprehensible. Kiryu’s could feel the fast pulses against his tongue, and Majima’s muscles constrict. 

“So close, Kiryu.” Majima said, his voice almost a whine. “Last chance to move before..” Majima started to say. Kiryu didn’t stop, speeding up as much as he could. Majima’s legs squeezed around his neck and he went rigid. His hands pulled at Kiryu’s hair. Kiryu groaned, and Majima gave a sharp gasp, shooting into his mouth. Kiryu swallowed over and over again, using his hand to coax every drop out of Majima, till the only sound was his shaky breaths.

 Kiryu pulled his mouth off. Majima’s legs relaxed, and Kiryu placed them down off his shoulders one at a time, then stood up. He kicked his pants and underwear away, then picked Majima up and brought him down to the nearby futon. Majima clung to him, shaky, sweaty and boneless. “I love ya, Kaz.” he murmured. “Don’t got the words to tell ya how much.”

 Kiryu lay on his back and let him recover, holding him to his chest, till Majima started to move his hand over Kiryu’s bicep. 

“Poor Kiryu-chan. So patient, so good, and didn’t even get touched. What a jerk you’re with.” Majima mused, his hand squeezing the muscle and moving to his shoulder. “Good thing I ain’t done with ya, huh?”

“I wanted too many things at once. I decided on what I hadn’t done before.”

 Majima chuckled. “That’s how I feel when I’m with ya. I get dizzy thinkin’ of everything we could be doin’ that it ain’t easy to narrow it down. Ya did great. Top marks.”

 Majima’s hand travelled down his chest. Kiryu caught it and brought it to his lips. “Rest for a minute. We’ve got time.”

 Majima sighed, his head heavy against Kiryu’s chest. “Then let’s do some narrowing. Tell me what ya don’t like so I don’t do that.”

“Hmm, I would’ve had a clearer answer a week ago. I’ve been learning a lot about myself lately.”

 Majima chuckled and licked his chest. “Brand new world, huh?”

“Yeah.” Kiryu said, intertwining their fingers. “I don’t like, well, I guess I’ve never understood the appeal of feet.”

 Majima laughed loudly. “Ain’t at the top of my list either. You could step on me and I’d thank ya for it, but the whole toes in the mouth thing doesn’t do much for me.”

 Kiryu made a face. “I’m glad we’re on the same page, but I don’t think I want to step on you either.”

 Majima gave an exaggerated sigh. “Fine.”

“Your turn. What don’t you like?” Kiryu asked. 

“Let’s see. Restraints can be fun, but I don’t like my hands tied up over my head.”

“Okay.”

“But only in very specific… here, I’ll show ya.”

 Majima pushed himself up. He straddled Kiryu’s waist and took both his hands. He placed them so Kiryu’s wrists were crossed right above his head. “This I like. You could hold me down like this anytime.”

 Kiryu considered. “I think I like this too.”

“Ooh, did we discover somethin’ new?” Majima asked. Still holding his wrists with one hand, Majima lurched forward and kissed him. Kiryu groaned. Majima hummed and met his tongue with his own. Kiryu tried to move his hands but Majima growled and tightened his grip. Oh yeah. He definitely liked this. 

 Majima pulled back, examining Kiryu closely. Kiryu bucked his hips, which brought that gleeful, wild smile to Majima’s face. He kissed him again, hard. What were they talking about? Kiryu didn’t remember or care. That fire was burning in him again, and he felt a lot less patient about it. He strained his hands once more. Majima reached up with his other hand and held a hand around each of his wrists, rubbing his thumbs over Kiryu’s pulse points. 

“Kiryu-chan.” Majima said, kissing his neck, leaning more weight on his hands. 

“I left the bottle on the desk.” Kiryu said.

“Guess I’ll go get it, since you’ve been so accommodating.” Majima replied with a bite to his earlobe and a shrill laugh. “Don’t move. You’re perfect like this.”

 Kiryu smiled to himself as Majima pushed himself up and away. Someday he’d mention how annoying it was when he laughed right in his ear, but he didn’t care enough to tell him now. He closed his eyes and stretched his arms above his head. 

“Did you see that?” Majima asked. 

 Kiryu opened his eyes. “What?”

“Hmm, thought I saw the light flicker-” Majima was interrupted by a loud boom of thunder that made them both jump. “Hah! Thought that might be comin’ and it still got me.” Majima said. He returned and swung his leg over, dropping down to sit on Kiryu’s stomach, none too gently. 

 Kiryu keeled forward with an “oof” and swatted at him. Majima snickered and tried to get his hands back around Kiryu’s wrists, but Kiryu kept slapping him away. It was the mildest fight they’d ever had, and neither of them could hold in their laughter. Soon, Majima pinned Kiryu’s arms back over his head. 

“Ya let me win.” Majima said with a scowl. 

“Yeah, but I’m right where I want to be.”

 Majima leaned down and kissed him, hands tightening around his wrists. “And he says he’s bad with words.”

 Kiryu smiled. “Give me a hand back so I can touch you.”

 Majima brought Kiryu’s right hand to his mouth and kissed his wrist. “Hard to argue with that.”

 The rain started all at once, bouncing off the roof loudly. Kiryu touched Majima’s thigh, and felt along the firm muscles of his leg back towards his ass.

 The lube bottle had rolled away, but Majima grabbed it and put the smallest drop on his hand. He rubbed it between his fingers, then licked it off. “Try it.”

 Majima offered his thumb, which Kiryu took into his mouth. The taste of artificial coconut wasn’t bad. He nodded. 

 Majima smiled and squeezed more into his hand, then shuffled his way down so he was sitting on top of Kiryu’s legs. 

“I can’t reach you.” Kiryu said, then moaned when Majima’s hand slid over his shaft. 

“We got time. I don’t want ya thinkin’ I forgot about you.”

That wasn’t what Kiryu was thinking, but it was hard to argue when he felt so desperate to be touched. “I love your hands.” Kiryu said. 

“They’re all yours, Kaz. Keep talkin’. Tell me what yer feeling.”

“Good. It feels good.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima tightened his grip. “Yeah? And now?”

“Better. Hard is good.” Kiryu managed to say. Majima’s wicked laugh only made him burn hotter. The way he twisted his wrist just the right way, and the pressure as his hand stroked him made him feel so… he remembered he was supposed to be talking. “It feels like you can read my mind.”

“What do ya mean?” Majima asked, then shifted down further and began to use his mouth. 

“I can’t talk when you’re-ahh.” Kiryu started to say, before Majima started swirling his tongue.

“Try.” Majima said.

 Kiryu breathed, trying to concentrate while Majima’s hands were all over him at once.

“It’s like you know me better than I do.” Kiryu said, gasping when Majima’s mouth slathered kisses over his cock. “Everything you do is something I didn’t know I liked.”

“You’re good for the ego, Kiryu-chan.” Majima rumbled. “I need you, gorgeous. I gotta get myself ready.”

“Let me help. Let me touch you.”

“Relax. This won’t take long.” Majima said, reaching behind himself. “Touch yerself, Kazzy. Please.”

 Kiryu nodded. He stroked himself slowly between his thumb and forefinger, enjoying the way he was being watched with rapt attention.  

 Majima was right, it didn’t take long. Kiryu couldn’t see what Majima was doing to himself, but the expressions that crossed over his face had Kiryu mesmerized. Soon Majima positioned himself with Kiryu’s help and sank slowly down. Kiryu watched, fighting the urge to close his eyes. He needed to see every second of this. Majima’s face alone was enough to make him burn, but what he was doing, what he was letting Kiryu do to him, made him feel feverish. He finally had to close his eyes and let out a moan as Majima sat fully down on top of him. 

“Fuck.” Kiryu said. He heard Majima gasp, but he didn’t tease him for swearing. Kiryu wouldn’t have cared. He couldn’t focus on anything right now except for how searing hot Majima was, outside and in. He let his hands roam over Majima’s thighs where he was straddling him, up the lines of ink on either side of his thighs up to his waist. He looked so tough, so manly. Majima started moving, and whatever Kiryu was thinking left his mind. 

 Majima looked at him, intensity burning through his sharp eye as he rode him. The sound of their breathing was loud, and often in-sync. Majima’s hands were on his abdomen, running over his chest, squeezing his pectorals, like he had to keep touching him. Kiryu finally had to break away from his gaze to find the bottle. He coated his hand in the sweet-smelling lube and trailed a wet finger up Majima’s thigh. When he took hold of his shaft, Majima bucked forward with a moan and closed his eye, squeezing his muscles. Kiryu couldn’t contain the noise he made, and Majima only egged him on. 

“I love the way you move.” Kiryu said. “I love the way you feel.”

 Majima moaned again, moving fast now, practically bouncing on top of him. He’d started slow, and slow had been good, but nobody was better at hard and fast than Majima. 

“I’m close. Goro, I’m so close.” Kiryu said. 

“Come on, gorgeous.” Majima groaned. The animalistic slap of their bodies together only made Kiryu burn hotter. He was on fire. He felt overwhelmed. His body tensed and he grit his teeth. “Cum for me, Kazuma.” 

 Majima was trying to squeeze him to death between his thighs. It was almost painful, but that only made it better. The wild look on Majima’s face changed into something desperate, and that was what did it for Kiryu. Like a chain reaction, Kiryu’s orgasm set off Majima’s. He shook overtop of Kiryu as they both came down, then hunched over him, breathing hard. 

“You’re so beautiful.” Kiryu said. Majima laughed in response and reached for the tissue box. 

 Kiryu caught his breath as Majima wiped the traces of himself off of Kiryu’s chest, slapping Kiryu’s hand away when he tried to help. Once cleaned, Majima collapsed against his shoulder with a tired laugh. 

“Nobody’s ever been as lucky as me.” Majima said, sounding delirious. “Wow.”

“Yeah. Wow.” Kiryu said with a sigh. The rain was loud on the roof, but this was the first time he’d noticed it since they’d heard that first clap of thunder. Someone could have fired a gun in the room in the middle of that and he might not have heard it. He told this to Majima who chuckled.

“Good to know I had yer full attention.”

“You did. You do.” Kiryu said. He pulled Majima up so he could kiss him. 

 After a long, slow kiss Majima grinned.  “Ya like dragging me around, huh?”

 Kiryu shrugged. “Yeah.”

“I like it too.”

 They lay together for a little longer, then Majima jumped up and offered to make lunch. They dressed, and Kiryu followed him into the kitchen with a hand on his waist. 

“We’re gonna need to go shopping again soon. I thought we got a ton of stuff last time but it’s almost all gone.” Majima said, head in the fridge. 

“Yeah. Nothing lasts long in this house. I usually go shopping more often but I’ve been pretty distracted this week.”

“Do ya always meet Haruka after school like we did?”

“Usually, yeah. She likes shopping, and we don’t get as much time alone together just her and I, so it’s good for that.”

“That’s real cute.” Majima said, but it didn’t seem like he was making fun of him. 

“I’m glad you two get along.”

“I’ve always liked her. She’s a firecracker. I remember, what year was that? ‘06, I think. Don’t matter. When I explained the whole deal about kidnapping her for her own good, she sat me down and made me apologize for the Shangri-La thing too.” 

“What do you mean, kidnapping her for her own good.” Kiryu asked. 

 Majima shot him a guilty look. “Okay, not the best choice of words. I meant keeping her away from the guys who would’ve taken her to Shimano. Ya know, when I told her I wouldn’t’ve let that happen?”

 Majima spoke like this was obvious. “What? I didn’t know that.”

“Huh. I figured she’d’ve told ya. My boys had to take her from the punks who nabbed her off the street. Shimano… he mighta killed her. He wouldn’t’ve given two shits that she was just a kid. I might be a lotta things, but I ain’t that cold.”

 That was true. Especially what he said about Shimano. Kazama-san had sacrificed himself because Shimano tried to kill Haruka. Not a memory Kiryu or Haruka liked to dwell on. Kiryu shook his head and kissed Majima. “Thank you. I wish I’d known.”

“Don’t look at me like that was anything close to heroic. I still kept her tied up for a couple of hours. She’s a brave kid but she was scared. Not my finest moment.”

 Kiryu smiled and kissed him again. “No, but you did take a knife for me that day.”

 Majima snorted. “I did, didn’t I? Guess I was pretty damn heroic after all. I’ll never doubt myself again.”

 His voice got more and more melodramatic with every word. Kiryu rolled his eyes and kissed him to shut him up. Majima laughed against his mouth. 

“Goro?”

“Hmm?”

“What would you have done if I said I didn’t like coconut.”

“I woulda embarrassed the hell out of the gate agent at the airport is what.” Majima said with an evil laugh. “I might still do that just fer kicks.”

“Heh. Troublemaker.”

“You know it.” Majima said, “I think ya even like it.”

 Kiryu smiled instead of answering, and kissed him again.

Chapter 24: The Rainy Monday Afternoon

 The front step of Morning Glory was sheltered from the pouring rain. It was warm and humid, and the salty sea air formed an eerie mist over the water. Kiryu blew smoke towards the rain from where he and Majima sat, waiting for the kids. 

“Shouldn’t they be back by now?” Majima asked. 

 Kiryu checked his watch. “It hasn’t been long enough to worry.”

 Majima nodded. “How long’s this rain supposed to last? It’s not gonna fuck up our boat ride, is it?”

“The paper said just till tomorrow. It’s supposed to be nice again on Wednesday. We could go then.”

“Yeah, I don’t want to put it off too long.” He shot Kiryu a sly smile. “What are we gonna do tomorrow?”

 Kiryu thought about it. “It’s been a long time since we fought in the rain.”

“Yer spoiling me, Kazzy! We’ll have ourselves a two man wet tee-shirt contest.” Majima said, extinguishing the butt of his cigarette in the ashtray between them on the step. “The rain’s so much better out here. It don’t make the streets smell like piss and garbage like good old Kamurocho.”

“Yeah, I don’t miss that. Even when it gets really humid here it’s better than that.”

“This isn’t really humid?” Majima asked, pulling at his shirt. 

“When it rains in august the air feels thick. It can be stifling.”

 In the distance, they heard giggling children. Half a minute later, just over the wall, they saw a big clump of umbrellas, all held together like one big rain shield. Kiryu loved when they did this. The kids didn’t always get along, but there were moments like this where they banded together and it always put a smile on his face. 

“This is why it took them extra time getting home.” Kiryu said, standing up just as the umbrella cluster came into full view at the gate. Their faces were all covered, but Izumi, the shortest, leaned down and waved. 

 Majima laughed and rose to his feet. “How ‘bout that, Uncle Kaz, a travelling circus!” he called. The response was more giggling. Majima turned to Kiryu and lowered his voice. “That’s the cutest fuckin’ thing I’ve ever seen. Think I could grab a picture? My phone’s in my bag.”

“Yeah, but be quick.” Kiryu told him. He didn’t want them standing in the rain for too long. Majima ran into the house as Kiryu told the kids to wait a minute. Majima was back in a flash, phone flipped open. 

“You take it, Kiryu-chan. It’s the middle button.”

 Kiryu took the phone and snapped a couple of photos, then he and Majima helped the kids shake out their umbrellas. The rain shield was funny, but it wasn’t very effective. Most of the kids had at least one wet shoulder. He sent them all off to change into dry clothes, then leaned their umbrellas up against the outside wall. Majima peered at the photos on the small screen. 

“I should have gotten one with their faces showing.” Kiryu said, looking over Majima’s shoulder. 

“Nah, this is a work phone. These are perfect.”

“Good.”

 Majima’s phone buzzed. He grumbled something Kiryu couldn’t hear, then headed inside towards their bedroom. Before he shut the door, Kiryu heard him answer the phone with a loud, “What d’ya want?”

 Kiryu smiled and picked up the metal ashtray off the step. He was about to bring it in when he saw a red umbrella over the wall. He waited till Haruka appeared at the gate. 

 She tilted the umbrella back, revealing a concerned expression. Without thinking, Kiryu dropped the ashtray and walked into the rain. “What’s wrong? Are you okay?”

 Haruka smiled and ran forward to cover him with her umbrella. “I’m fine, Uncle Kaz. But, um, can I talk to you about something? Maybe on the beach?”

“Yeah. Right now?”

“Yes, but maybe you should put some shoes on first?” Haruka offered with another smile. 

 Kiryu looked down at his bare feet. “Oh. Good idea.”

 Haruka waited by the gate. Kiryu took her backpack and placed it inside the door. He shoved his feet into his sandals and grabbed the closest umbrella, Mitsuo’s green and white striped one. 

 They crossed the street, and with every step, Kiryu’s apprehension grew. She said she was okay, and he believed her, but if this wasn’t about her then… he’d been stupid to put off talking to Majima about this. He should have been more ready. 

 Then again, maybe he was being too self-involved. If Haruka was having a personal problem, that would be worse. His stomach twisted into knots as they turned left and walked all the way over to the rocks at the end of their beach.

 Rain pelted against their umbrellas as they stopped. Kiryu snuck a look. Haruka looked serious again, but maybe nervous as well? He could usually tell with her, but right now he had no idea.

“Uncle Kaz, I really don’t know how to say this…”

“It’s okay.” Kiryu said. “Whatever it is, it’s okay.” He said, hoping that were true. 

 Haruka nodded, looking up at him with her big eyes, looking so grown-up all of a sudden. “I know it isn’t my place, and if I’m wrong I hope his doesn’t um, ruin anything?” 

 She paused. Kiryu waited. He wanted to hear her out before he spoke.

“But um, Majima-san.  I…” she shut her eyes, “I think he really cares about you.”

 Kiryu nodded, then realized she couldn’t have seen that with her eyes closed. She opened her eyes and continued.

“And I think you really care about him too. And I think you should tell him that, if, um, if you haven’t already.”

Haruka looked determined, but not angry, not disgusted. Just looking out for his happiness the way she always did. He should say something now. He needed to give her an answer. Instead he stepped forward and hugged her. 

“Thank you, Haruka.” he said, just as their umbrellas bumped together and knocked a bunch of water on both of them. “Heh, sorry.”

 She brushed water off her school uniform and looked up at him expectantly. 

 Kiryu took a breath and did his best to maintain eye contact. “And you’re right. I’ve been trying to figure out how to tell you, but everything you said is right.”

 A small smile appeared on her face. “So you have… talked to each other?”

“Yes.” Kiryu said, feeling his face burn, “W-we’re together now. We’re um… in love.”

 She handed him her umbrella then hugged him again. Kiryu kept them dry this time, and let out the breath he’d been holding. He thought back to his last brief relationship, and the issues it had brought up. He may not have prepared enough for this conversation, but he’d thought a lot about this part. “I need you to know that whatever happens between him and I, you’re still the most important person in my life. You’re my priority, and nothing will ever change that.”

 Haruka looked up at him. He tried to keep eye contact but it wasn’t easy for him. “Thank you, Uncle Kaz. I know, but I want you to be happy too.”

“I-I haven’t told anyone else.” Kiryu said, hating how much his voice kept sputtering. “It’s all really new, but… I am happy. I’m pretty sure we’re both really happy.” 

 Haruka gave him a wide smile, and took her umbrella back. “I won’t tell anybody. Not even the other kids.” 

“Do you think they…”

 Haruka shook her head. “No. I don’t think so. But they all want him to move in with us. I’d like that too.”

 Kiryu smiled. “I’m not sure that’ll happen anytime soon, but it’s good to know it wouldn’t be a problem. I’m glad… I’m really glad.” he said, relieved but still full of nerves. “You’re sure you’re okay with this? You can tell me if you aren’t. I know it’s weird.”

 She smiled. There was no hesitation or doubt in her eyes. “It’s not weird. I’m really happy for you, Uncle Kaz, and I really like Majima-san. Especially since he’s been here.”

“I could, um, should I go get him?”

 Haruka nodded. Kiryu pat her head, then walked back to the house. How could he have expected anything less than support? She was Haruka. She loved him, they were family, and the world wasn’t the same as when he was a kid. 

 Majima was standing on the front step, hands on his hips, hunched forward in a strange posture. From the gate, Kiryu motioned for him. 

 Majima already had shoes on, but he took Riona’s pink Hello Kitty umbrella and jogged over to him. 

“She okay?” he asked Kiryu as they went back across the street. 

 Kiryu nodded. “Yeah, but she, um, she knows. She said she thought we cared about each other, and wanted to make sure I talked to you about it. So I told her.”

 Instead of answering, Majima smiled and picked up the pace till they got back to Haruka. 

“Nothin’ gets past you. Right, Boss?” Majima said when they got close.

 Haruka nodded. “Majima-san, can I give you a hug?”

 This time Kiryu had to hold all three umbrellas, holding Haruka’s over both of them as Majima spun her around, making her laugh. After she was set down, Haruka’s expression became stern. She crossed her arms. “You’ll be nice to him, right?”

“I’ll do my best, kiddo.” Majima said seriously. 

“Good.” she said firmly. 

“How long have ya known?” Majima asked. 

“We don’t have to talk about this.” Kiryu said, shifting on his feet.

“Well, I always kind of wondered,” Haruka said to Majima, “and when you slept through that movie we saw, it really made me wonder.”

“Oh,” Kiryu said, embarrassment building, “you saw that.”

“I was sitting right there, Uncle Kaz.” Haruka said, like it was obvious. 

“Yeah, she was sittin’ right there, Kaz.” Majima said. He crossed his arms like Haruka and looked smug. This could be a problem, Kiryu thought with a smile, they were going to gang up on him.

“And now you both look really happy.” she said. 

 Kiryu felt awkward but relieved. Majima took Haruka’s hand. “I’ll do what I can to keep it that way.”

“I hope so.” she warned, “Uncle Kaz isn’t the only one with scary friends.”

 Majima’s eye widened, then he laughed. “Don’t worry, Haruka-chan, I ain’t stupid enough to get on your bad side.”

 Haruka nodded. “I’m glad we understand each other.”

 Majima smiled, then Haruka hugged him again. Kiryu passed the umbrellas back and they walked back to the house together. 

 That was it? Nothing had changed, the way Haruka looked at him hadn’t changed, and Kiryu couldn’t believe it had been so easy. As they walked back she was far more interested in how much of the movie Majima had actually slept through, and laughed when he told her he didn’t remember any of it.

 Kiryu let out a long sigh before stepping into the house. He could hear laughter inside. The rest of the kids had assembled around the dining table, all getting their homework out of the way.

“This way if it stops raining later, we could still go out and play.” Ayako told Kiryu. 

“Smart thinking.” he replied. 

“Is Haruka okay?” she asked. 

 Kiryu’s heart sank. Most of the kids couldn’t be discreet if their life depended on it, but not Ayako. She was nearly Haruka’s age, and just as smart. It felt wrong to keep things from her, but he also didn’t want to burden her with his secret. Maybe he’d ask Haruka’s advice. 

“She’s fine. Just a school issue. I’ll… I’ll tell you about it later.” he said. That was the best he could do at the moment. Ayako nodded. 

 Enough rain had hit him that Kiryu went to go change. He heard the door slide closed behind him, and as Kiryu grabbed a dry shirt, strong arms circled his waist. 

“That went pretty good.” Majima said, chin on his shoulder. 

“It’s a big relief.” Kiryu said. “I didn’t expect her to react badly, but I wasn’t sure.”

“And she barely threatened me. I thought she might pull a knife when she found out.” Majima said. “I’m a little disappointed.” He went to rest his head down on Kiryu’s shoulder but he hit the spot where he’d been rained on. He helped pull Kiryu’s shirt off and wiped at his shoulder with it. “So, who are these scary friends she has?”

“Heh, I don’t know. Probably Date-san.”

 Majima laughed. “I know he’s your pal, but that old fart is about the furthest thing from scary.”

 Kiryu was pretty sure Majima and Date were about the same age, but he didn’t mention that. “She likes you.” Kiryu said instead, sighing as Majima kissed his bare shoulder. “We all like you here.”

“Weird.” Majima said with a low rumble of a laugh. “Be proud of yerself, Kaz. You just came out to yer kid.”

 Kiryu put the new shirt on. Majima helped pull it down over his back. “I guess I did. I didn’t say…”

“Ya didn’t need to. That’s what I’ve been tellin’ ya. You don’t need to rush past this part, when you’re still figuring this shit out.”

 Kiryu turned around and touched Majima’s cheek. “You’ve been so… I don’t know, gentle with me.”

 Majima’s arm shot out and punched him in the shoulder. “I could throw ya in the deep end,” he said quietly, “take ya to a gay bar and get handsy on the dance floor. But you ain’t ready for that yet.”

 Kiryu paused to picture that. “I used to like dancing. Can’t remember the last time I went. Not since my early twenties. You’re right, it’s too much right now. Maybe someday, if there was no risk of being found out…”

“When yer ready, I can make it happen. You got no idea how easy it is for me to go unnoticed when I want to. Sunglasses, a hat, a done-up shirt, and bam, I’m somebody else.” he trailed his hand across Kiryu’s chest. “A little harder to hide this gorgeous physique, but there are lots of places where nobody knows us. Discreet places, for people just like us.”

“Someday, yeah. I’d like to dance with you, if I can remember how.”

 He smiled, tracing the muscle of Kiryu’s bicep through his shirt. “You’ll remember. It’s just like ridin’ a bike, or in your case, just like throwin’ a bike at a guy.” Kiryu laughed, and Majima looked pleased with himself. “My point is, it’s okay that this is taking time, and if I can help, let me help. It ain’t fun figurin’ all this shit out alone. Take from a guy who threw himself in the deep end at twenty-four.”

 Kiryu touched his cheek. “I never thought I’d ever talk about this with anybody. It’s freeing, being this honest.”

“Right… honest.” Majima said. He looked serious, like Kiryu has said something wrong. Then he forced a smile and pushed Kiryu away. “Come on. I’ve barely talked to the kids. I love havin’ ya to myself but I missed ‘em.”

“Haruka told me they all want you to move in.”

 Majima was almost at the door but he stopped. 

“Maybe almost as much as I do.” Kiryu added. 

“Aw, Kazzy, yer gonna make me all emotional.” Majima joked.

“Heh, well, I feel emotional. It happens sometimes.” Kiryu said. Majima was still facing the door. 

“If I could, I would.”

“Would it be that hard?” Kiryu couldn’t help asking. 

 Majima paused, then his shoulders slumped. “Probably.”

 Kiryu took a step forward. Majima’s head turned to the side but he didn’t look back. “I can’t talk about this right now, Kiryu-chan.”

 Majima walked out of the room before he could say more. Kiryu grit his teeth. Stupid! He knew it wasn’t an fair thing to ask, especially a week into a relationship. And regardless of what they both wanted, life just wasn’t that easy. It wasn’t right to put that decision on Majima’s shoulders right now. He’d apologize as soon as he could. 

 He ran his hand through his hair, still damp from the rain, and went to help the kids. He’d missed them too.

Notes:

Happy New Year, dear readers. Thank you so much for reading.

Chapter 25: Goro’s Worst Secret

 Kiryu didn’t get a chance to say much to Majima directly for the rest of the night. He didn’t look upset, but that didn’t mean anything. Majima could hide a lot behind his smile. As Kiryu suspected, part of the reason he’d been having an easier time reading him was because Majima was allowing himself to be read. 

 Haruka and Majima made dinner together, and it made Kiryu happy to hear laughter coming from the kitchen, while he was preoccupied with helping Izumi get Mame into his dog raincoat.

 The kids had a good night. Seeing Saki the day before had made the younger kids want to draw, and since it was still raining, after dinner the art supplies came out. The older kids and Majima watched an idol concert on TV that Haruka wanted to watch. The rain never let up, and it was comforting to be warm and secure inside the house while it poured. 

 Or at least, it would be comforting, but Kiryu knew something was off. He kept telling himself that nothing bad had actually happened. It was stupid to get worked up over something minor, but he’d been in so few meaningful relationships in his life, and he felt a little lost. His last brief affair with Kaoru had failed for many reasons, but he didn’t want to make the same mistakes. He didn’t want to push for too much too fast, and was pretty sure that’s what he was doing. 

 Kiryu took extra time brushing his teeth that night. He dreaded this conversation, but he really wanted to get it over with.

 When he returned to his room, he found Majima looking at the taped up pictures the kids had drawn. He was wearing his pyjama pants, but hadn’t taken off his shirt. 

“Haruka drew that one.” Kiryu said, pointing to the picture of himself that Majima was looking at. “It’s the first one she ever gave me. She started drawing it at Serena, and finished it at our first apartment.” Kiryu took a step closer. “I don’t know how it survived the demolition, but it did. If I had to chose between this or my pocket circuit cars, I’d pick this picture every time.”

 Majima kept his eye on the picture. “You never told me she wanted to be an idol.”

 Kiryu smiled despite his nerves. “She’s always loved to sing.”

“It ain’t an easy life.” Majima said. He looked at him, serious, but unreadable beyond that. He closed the gap between them and drew Kiryu in for a hug. 

 Instant relief. Kiryu had been more nervous than he even realized. His hands grabbed handfuls of that loud green shirt Majima was wearing, holding him as close as he could. 

 They stayed like that for a long moment, then Kiryu couldn’t take the silence. “I am moving too fast, aren’t I?”

“No.” was the quick reply. “No, that ain’t it at all.”

 Neither of them had moved. The sides of their heads were pressed together as they stayed locked in the hug. Majima sighed before he continued. “You gotta know how much I want to stay. So much that it scares me.”

 Kiryu rubbed circles into Majima’s back in a way he hoped was comforting. “I didn’t think you got scared.”

 Majima forced a laugh. “Not usually, but right now? I’m doin’ something I promised myself I’d never do again, and I’m trying to figure out how this whole thing ends up without you gettin’ hurt… and I’m fucking terrified.”

 Kiryu wanted to look at him, but Majima was clinging so tightly that it would take effort to pull him off. Instead Kiryu kissed the top of his shoulder. “It’s okay.” Kiryu said, even though he didn’t understand. 

“This is the last thing I want to talk about, but it keeps eatin’ me up inside, you and that No Secrets thing, so I gotta tell ya something. It ain’t right to keep going the way this is going and not tell you. You’re too good a man. But I haven’t yet ‘cause it’s… fuck, it’s the worst thing I ever did.”

 Kiryu did pull back then, and Majima let him, but couldn’t look him in the face. 

“Okay.” Kiryu said. “Sit down.”

 Majima looked sick. He gave a slight nod and sat on their futon. Kiryu put a hand on his shoulder and he flinched. At some point in the last minute, Majima had shrunk. He looked somehow smaller than his frame. Kiryu didn’t take his hand away, but he was surprised by the change. 

“I… dammit. I don’t even know where to start.”

“I’m not going anywhere.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima gave a short, bitter laugh and rubbed underneath his eyepatch. 

“Here goes…” he started, his voice low. “So uh, way back in ‘89. I was runnin’ as wild as I could, but I was also cleaning up Shimano’s clusterfuck of a mess. After a while of that I started feelin’ real empty and aimless, and there was this function at Tojo headquarters, don’t remember what for.”

 He spoke quickly, and barely above a mumble. Kiryu waited, and Majima continued. 

“I’d been travelling a lot and hadn’t been to HQ in a long time. I think it was the second or third time I saw Dojima after I almost offed him.”

 It was hard not to interrupt then. After the whole incident with the empty lot, Dojima never spoke about what had happened except to pat himself on the back. Kiryu knew that Majima had fought his way through most of the Dojima family, but there were only rumours about what had actually happened between him and the boss. Majima noticed Kiryu’s surprise, and waited a moment before continuing. 

“So I see him, and can’t help but get close enough to make him uncomfortable. Instead I see him with Yayoi-san and gawky little teen Daigo. And it was so clear how much they loved him. That fucking toad. One of the worst guys in the whole fuckin’ city, and they loved him. I couldn’t believe it. That night I got this goddamn stupid idea that if a man like that could pull off having a family, a happy, normal little family, then… maybe I could too.”

 He closed his eye, and Kiryu felt a different kind of apprehension than he expected. He knew Majima wasn’t a saint. He wouldn’t have lasted as long as he did without getting his hands dirty, and Majima liked getting his hands dirty. Kiryu had just expected this story to be business related, not…

“So I found a girl. She was feisty and tough, and didn’t give a damn about the eyepatch or the tattoos. And I thought, bam, perfect, I could keep the two worlds separate. Do my job, go wild and tear it up, and then come home to my own little family and be the perfect… husband and father.” He let out another bitter laugh, “I really let myself believe that. We were together barely three months before we got hitched.”

“You were married?” Kiryu blurted. 

 Majima gave a slight nod. Kiryu had never seen him look this ashamed. “We had to hide it. She was young, way too young, and she was…” he took a deep breath, “she was an idol, barely out of the gate. And idols can’t get married, especially not back then. I had this plan for myself, but she had dreams. Real big dreams. I thought I was helping her out, told myself I loved her, but… I was just a selfish prick.”

 Kiryu frowned. He wasn’t sure what to say so he said nothing. Majima looked pained.

“Wasn’t long after that I came home…” he started, then cleared his throat, wringing his hands. “I came home and she was in pain. She wouldn’t tell me why at first, but I got it out of her that she was… that she’d been pregnant. But she was an idol, ya know? She couldn’t keep it if she wanted to follow that dream, but instead of telling me, she went to some unlicensed quack and he…”

 Majima’s throat sounded dry. “I should have been on her side. Shoulda helped her. She was in pain and I… fuck. I was angry. I was only thinking of myself, and this perfect life I was supposed to have and, and I hit her. First and last time I ever hit a woman. Swore I’d never do that after the way my dad was with my mom... but there I was, exactly like him.”

 Kiryu wanted to console him, but he felt disgusted. Ashamed on his behalf. That poor girl. So he waited, and kept listening. 

“After that it all fell apart. I knew I was only getting in her way so I left. Not before we got her to a real doc, who said that because of the way the shithead had botched the job, she probably couldn’t ever have kids. I sent her money through this buddy of ours, Katsuya, all still in secret. She got back to work, and was just about to do this big concert, but they cancelled it on her last-minute. Don’t know how it happened, but her agency found out everything, and her career was fucked as soon as it started. I crushed her dreams and left her divorced at nineteen. I was supposed to love her and I ruined her life.”

 Majima sat slumped forward with a blank expression, looking empty. He was right, it was a horrible story. 

“What happened to her?” Kiryu asked. 

“About five years after that I got a message from her through Katsuya. It said she’d started her own talent agency, she was doing fine, and she didn’t want any more of my dirty money. I tried to keep sending her cash but she sent it all back. Last I heard she’s still runnin’ her place out in Osaka. I still talk to our mutual friend once in a while. He's an Omi man, and still in the entertainment biz. They keep in touch too. He says she’s cold and harsh now, but she’s damn good at what she does.”

 Majima’s head moved just slightly. He didn’t meet Kiryu’s eyes, but he did look at him for the first time since he’d started talking. 

“You need to know the awful shit I’m capable of. I want to tell you that it was twenty years ago, that it was the biggest regret of my life, that I’m different now, and… that I won’t fuck up and ruin your life, but you know what I’m like. I’ve already put ya through hell. You’ve got scars ‘cause of me.”

“That’s different.”

“Maybe before. Now…?”

“It’s different.” Kiryu insisted. 

“Yeah well, either way. No secrets, you keep saying, so there it is. Goro’s worst fucking secret.” he gave another bitter laugh.

The silence stretched on. Then Majima spoke again. “If ya want I could call a cab. It ain’t that late and I know there’s a hotel close-”

“No.” Kiryu said, shaking his head, “I’m not going to say that what you did wasn’t awful. I can’t tell you it’s okay or that I’m happy. It’s also not my place to forgive you for it. That’s between you and your… your ex-wife.” 

 Kiryu paused. He understood why Majima had brought up the cab. He sometimes thought Haruka and the kids would be better off, or at least safer without him around, but the idea of Majima walking out for his sake felt ridiculous. How could he even think that? 

“I don’t want you to leave.” Kiryu said. “Not tonight, not till your flight next week. I don’t want to be away from you any longer than I have to. Nothing you’ve said changes that.”

“Kiryu.” Majima whispered. 

“Do you want a drink? I could use a whiskey.”

 Majima nodded. Kiryu touched his shoulder again, then left for the kitchen. He needed to breathe a little and gather his thoughts. 

 Married. He wasn’t expecting that at all. He felt disappointed in Majima, compassion for the poor girl he’d married, and… he didn’t know what else. Guilt maybe, for feeling closer to Majima because he’d confided in him, despite the awful things he’d done. 

 Ice hit the whiskey glass in front of him loudly, and Kiryu hoped it hadn’t bothered the kids. He poured two glasses, then decided to take the bottle with him as well.

 Majima had laid down backwards from where he sat, hands over his face, but he returned to an upright position when Kiryu returned. His eye looked red. After Kiryu set down the bottle and the glasses he shut the door and sat back down. Majima was looking at the glass but hadn’t touched it. 

 The whiskey was cheap, and Kiryu wished he had something better to offer. Still, he appreciated the harsh warmth it brought as he took a drink. Majima finally picked up his glass and downed half of it in one gulp. If he was bothered by the quality, he didn’t show it. Kiryu reached for his free hand. Majima didn’t flinch this time. Just watched Kiryu take his hand and hold it. 

 They stayed like that for a while. Kiryu poured them a generous second round, and they sat drinking in silence until their glasses were empty once more. 

“I know I should’ve known better.” Majima said, “The best thing I ever did for her was leave, I just left way too late. I wasn’t even that stupid with Makoto.”

“Makoto?” Kiryu asked, confused. Then realization hit him hard. “Oh, right.”

“That’s goin’ back even further. Wasn’t sure you’d remember her name.”

“No, I do, I just…” Kiryu started, feeling like the biggest idiot in the world. Majima was staring at him now. “I know another Makoto.”

 Majima kept looking at him. Sheepishly, Kiryu continued. “Date-san’s name is Makoto.”

 When Kiryu snuck a look, Majima had his hand over his face again. He thought he might be even more upset, but Majima was silently laughing. 

“Nah, that’s the one I meant.” Majima said, which made them both laugh. Nervous, stupid laughter that finally broke the tension. 

 Kiryu couldn’t help reaching out and pulling him into an awkward hug. “Don’t you dare leave.” he said. 

“Don’t want to. If ya still want me here, then I’m here.” Majima replied, finally returning the hug. “Ya don’t have to be this nice about it. You should be pissed.”

“I’d be a lot less nice about it if you didn’t look so guilty.” Kiryu said. “There’s a lot in my past that I wish I never did, or that I could have done differently. It eats me up inside even when I think I’m over it. Some of it I don’t think I’ll ever really leave behind, but I’ve changed, and I like to think I’ve learned.”

 Majima held on a little tighter. “Saejima said something pretty close to that when I told him last month. He’s the only other person I ever told. Except he didn’t hug me. He told me to man the fuck up about it and knocked my head into a wall.”

“I’m not going to do that to you, so don’t ask.”

 Majima let out a low laugh. “Thanks for hearing me out, Kaz. And for not kickin’ me out of your house.”

 Kiryu kissed his cheek, hand on his neck. “Thanks for being honest. You didn’t have to, but you did.”

“I know this changes things…”

 Kiryu drew back and held him at arms length. He caught Majima’s eye for the first time and shook his his head. Majima looked pained again, but didn’t look away. “Goro, I-“

 Majima held up a hand. “Ya don’t have to say anything, Kaz. This ain’t somethin’ that can be fixed.”

“I love you.” Kiryu said, continuing his thought. “I can’t speak for the man you were back then. But I love you now. We love each other.”

 That sad, wistful smile appeared. “Ya really are too stubborn for yer own good.”

“Maybe, but you and I are supposed to be together. That hasn’t changed.” Kiryu brought him in and kissed his forehead. Majima grabbed onto him and held tight, pressing his face against Kiryu’s throat. Kiryu touched the back of his neck. “And I keep thinking about how much fun it’s going to be to fight you in the rain tomorrow.”

 Majima let out a laugh that sounded more like a choked sob. “I’ll get my shit together soon. Needed to tell ya, but never meant to get this fuckin’ soft about it.” he huffed like he was annoyed with himself. “Ya keep crackin’ me open like a crab.”

“I… like crab.” Kiryu said, for lack of anything better to say. 

 Majima snorted and kissed his neck. “Ya sure ya still wanna fight after all that? I get it if ya want some space.”

“I don’t want space. Take that ugly shirt off and lie down with me.”

 Majima barked a laugh, and looked him in the eye. He still had that raw look, but he didn’t look as withdrawn. Kiryu kissed him, and stood up to get the light. 

 Majima was quiet till Kiryu pulled him to his shoulder. “Don’t know what to say.” 

 Kiryu kept him close within his arms. “That’s a first.”

“Smartass.” Majima said, finally sounding like himself. “I want this to work, Kaz. It’s all I want. But I can’t be perfect. If I try it’ll all fall apart. I’m always gonna be kind of an asshole. I’m always gonna be… me.”

“Good.” Kiryu said. Majima snorted again. “I know you pretty well by now, and I’m not going into this naïve.” Kiryu added firmly. “I’ll keep telling you until it sinks in. You are who I want.”

“Kiryu-” 

“I love you.”

 Majima paused, but kept his grip on Kiryu’s arm. “I still ain’t used to this. Yer bein’ so damn sweet that I want to crawl outta my skin.”

 That might have sounded like an insult from someone else, but Kiryu understood. “You’ll get used to it.” he said.

“Well, while we’re being sappy… I wish I could’ve seen you with both eyes.” Majima said. 

 Kiryu kissed the top of his head. “I’d probably look about the same.” 

“Still.” 

 Neither of them slept for a long time, holding each other in the dark. The rain had eased a little, but it still dripped loudly off the side of the roof. Kiryu hoped what he’d said had gotten through. He wasn’t the only stubborn one. When he finally fell asleep, Majima was still holding him tight.

Notes:

The next chapter will be a lot more fun, I promise.

Chapter 26: The Two-Man Wet Tee Shirt Contest

 Kiryu’s eyes snapped open. It was still dark, and the clock said it was just after 4am. 

 Majima was gone.

 Kiryu’s heartbeat doubled. He looked around, but his eyes hadn’t adjusted enough to tell if Majima’s bag was still there. He sat up to start looking just as the door to his room slid slowly open. 

“Majima?” he whispered urgently. 

“Damn, I was tryna be quiet.” Majima answered, closing the door and stepping carefully back to the futon. 

 Kiryu reached out and pulled him back down to his side, wrapping his arms around Majima’s back. He tried to breathe through the jolt of panic that waking up alone had caused. 

“Kaz, you’re crushing me.” Majima wheezed. 

“Sorry.” Kiryu said, and loosened his grip. 

“Didn’t mean to worry ya.”

 Kiryu smoothed Majima’s hair down. “I thought-”

“It’s alright. I ain’t goin’ anywhere.” Majima said, his head back on Kiryu’s shoulder where it belonged. 

“Good.” Kiryu said. 

“I can’t let ya go. Except to get up ‘n piss in the middle of the night sometimes.”

“Heh, I guess that’s allowed.” Kiryu said, taking another steadying breath. 

“Ya don’t want the alternative.” Majima said with a yawn. “Sleep, Kaz. Yer gonna need yer strength soon.”

 Kiryu sighed. “I like it when you call me Kaz.”

“I like it when you say… anything.” Majima said, sounding half-asleep already. 

 Kiryu ran his hand through Majima’s hair again, as he sighed against his skin. A minute later, Majima was fast asleep. Kiryu’s body was still on alert, but after taking the time to slow down his heart, he was able to relax again. He drifted in and out of sleep till his alarm went off. 

~~~

“No! Ya gotta wear a white shirt for this, I told ya yesterday.” Majima said, pushing him over to his closet. He pulled at the black shirt Kiryu was wearing until it was off, then threw it across the room. 

“I thought you were joking.” Kiryu said.

“Nope. Come on, Kazzy. I woke up thinkin’ about this.”

 Kiryu sighed and found a white tee shirt. Two-man wet tee shirt contest, he thought and rolled his eyes. The kids were away, the dishes were done, and aside from a long, lingering kiss when the alarm went off, Majima had refused to touch him until they fought in the rain. “Why do I have to wear a shirt?” Kiryu added, “I’m not wearing one now. You already know what I look like.”

 He held out his arms, wearing nothing but his grey trunks. Majima leered at him. “Yeah, but I don’t know what ya look like when I peel a wet shirt off ya. I don’t know how long it’ll take to warm yer skin back up.” he stepped in close, “I don’t know long I can fight without gettin’ so distracted that I need to fuck ya right on the beach.”

 Kiryu couldn’t help smiling. He pulled the white shirt on. It matched the one Majima wore, except Majima’s was more fitted, and he’d cuffed the sleeves. He looked really good in that and those shiny pink swim shorts. Good enough that Kiryu wasn’t sure if he wanted to leave the warmth and comfort of the house. 

“You make me want to stay in.” Kiryu said. 

“Shut that sexy mouth before you convince me. Let’s go.”

 He looked so happy as he moved towards the bedroom door, a big change from the night before. “You seem lighter today.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima stopped. “There ain’t as much weighing me down.” he said with a wistful smile. 

 Kiryu smiled back. He raised his hand to Majima’s shoulder but he ducked out of the way and out of the room. 

“C’mon, Kiryu-chan!” Majima yelled from the front door. Kiryu made one quick stop, before following Majima out into the rain, one arm behind his back. Majima tried to see what he had in his hand, but Kiryu didn’t reveal it till they were out on the beach. Only then did he pull out the aluminum bat. He held it out handle first.

 Majima’s head tilted to the side. “Ehh?”

“You wanted a fair fight. This makes it fair.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima’s mouth opened, looking deeply offended. “What is this, trash talk? Ya think I can’t beat ya without it?” 

 Kiryu raised an eyebrow and held the bat out again. Majima frowned, looking suddenly serious. 

“I don’t know, Kaz. After what I told you last night… I don’t want to hurt you. Like actually hurt you.”

“Thirty percent power.” Kiryu said. He could give some impassioned speech about trust. About how their fights were different than other types of violence. He could go on and on, but he didn’t have to. The way they fought was a language in itself. It’s how they’d always worked things out, and Kiryu saw no reason to change it. 

 Majima hesitantly reached out, then grabbed the bat, stepping back and giving it a practice swing. He looked at Kiryu, and finally smiled. “Thirty-five percent.”

 Kiryu nodded and got into a fighting stance. Majima twirled the bat and squared up. The rain fell, loudly slapping against the sea. Majima’s shirt was damp already. He had that wild gleam in his eye that Kiryu loved, but he didn’t attack. After last night, Kiryu wasn’t surprised Majima wanted him to make the first move. 

 Kiryu stepped right, then dodged left as the bat came swinging overhead. Majima stopped mid-swing and sent his right elbow towards Kiryu’s chest. Kiryu dodged again, this time grabbing his arm and ducking underneath it, stopping right in front of him so their faces were only inches apart. A move he never would have pulled with anyone else. He smiled, then shoved Majima backwards with both hands. 

 Majima shrieked a laugh and twirled the bat again. “That was some hot shit, Kazzy.” he said, then lunged forward. Kiryu barely made it out of the way this time, and tried to wrench the bat out of his hand, a maneuver that had rarely been successful in the past, and didn’t work this time either. Majima was too fast, and his grip was too strong. 

 The bat got close to his face once more. Kiryu launched an uppercut. Majima bent straight backwards to avoid it, then circled around behind him. Kiryu felt the bat tap against the inside of his right knee, and move just slightly up his thigh. 

 He remembered one of their first fights in 2005, near the Shichifuku parking lot. Their brawl had amassed an audience, and Officer Majima had been showing off more than usual. He’d performed the same move with the bat then, and when Kiryu flinched, Majima had laughed and told him to relax. That he was “low, but not bat-to-the-dick low”. It should have made him angry, being toyed with, but it had been a relief to know that Majima, for all his talk, had no intention of actually killing him, or hurting him to the point of total incapacitation. 

 Kiryu, mind back to the present, turned and dodged the next strike. Majima swung the bat over his shoulder and around like a nunchaku, showing off again. Kiryu got hit on the shoulder but not hard. On the next hit, he caught the bat and pulled. Majima didn’t let go and was sent flying past him. Kiryu smacked him on the ass as he went by, and Majima’s gleeful laugh made him smile. The fierce eyes of the hannya glared at him through the back of Majima’s wet shirt, as if judging him for that action. 

 The fight continued, till Kiryu finally got the bat away. As soon as he did, Majima swung his foot behind Kiryu’s and knocked him off balance, swinging himself around Kiryu’s body as he fell. Majima went into a deep, bent knee stance and caught Kiryu by the front of his shirt before he hit the ground, his back resting on Majima’s knee. 

 Majima looked down at him, smug. Years ago he would have used this opportunity to hit him in the face, but he just stared down at Kiryu, smiled, and lightly smacked him on the cheek. Majima let go and jumped back, letting Kiryu’s back land on the sand. 

 Once back upright, Kiryu was surprised that Majima hadn’t retrieved the bat. He stood bouncing on his feet, ready for more. His tattoos were bright underneath the translucent shirt that clung to his chest. Majima shook his head, then pushed his wet hair straight back, and Kiryu was spellbound. 

 Grinding his foot into the wet sand, Kiryu adjusted his stance and went on the offensive. Majima was getting the upper hand, and Kiryu wasn’t going to let that continue. Majima weaved and dodged in time with the ebb and flow of the crashing waves. Kiryu wasn’t sure if it was intentional, but it was beautiful. Like so many times before, they fell into the rhythm of the fight like a dance. The air was humid, and the cool rain and soaked shirt felt good against Kiryu’s skin. 

 His hair, however, was getting in his eyes. He stepped away to push it back, shaking out the excess rainwater. After letting him do so, Majima got back in his face, breathing hard. “You look fucking incredible.”

“So do you.” Kiryu replied. They hadn’t seen any lightning today, but it felt like they were in the middle of their own personal thunder storm. They stayed where they were, each daring the other to make the next move, before Majima finally shot forward. He had the fastest reflexes Kiryu had ever seen. He could barely keep up with his punches, which connected against Kiryu’s abdomen more than once.  He finally got in the right position to grab hold of Majima. He spun him around, then sent him flying away. 

 Majima was back up almost as soon as he landed, howling with laughter. “Holy fuck, you’re strong. Ya gotta do that move for the wrestling match. That was hilarious.”

 Kiryu had forgotten about the match, or that they were supposed to be practicing for it. His realization must have registered on his face because Majima laughed again.

“You know how I feel about callin’ a draw,” Majima said, “but I think I’m good.”

 Kiryu nodded, “I’m good too.” He looked down at his wet shirt, then held out his hands wide. “Happy?”

“Get yer ass inside and I’ll show ya just how happy I am.” Majima said, stepping closer to him as he spoke. As he raised his arms to slick his hair back again, Kiryu could see the definition of his muscles through his shirt, the colours of his tattoo, his hard nipples. Those pink shorts also clung to him, and the heavy rain dripped down his thighs.

“Yeah.” Kiryu said, feeling stupid with want. 

 Majima picked up the bat and they headed back inside. Kiryu had the sense to put a stack of towels by the door before they left. He passed one to Majima as they stood on the front step, towelling off the excess rainwater and sand. Once satisfied that they wouldn’t drip everywhere, Kiryu went inside and put another dry towel down over his futon. 

 Majima closed the doors behind them, and watched him from the inside the bedroom door. His eye was glued to Kiryu’s chest, looking like a wild animal. Kiryu held out a hand and beckoned for him. In a flash Majima was right in front of him, looking imposing, ravenous. He ran both hands down Kiryu’s wet shirt, then nuzzled his head against his chest, sucking hard at his nipple through his shirt. 

 Kiryu put a hand on his arm, which was damp and cold from the rain. Majima’s teeth grazed his skin, biting at the fabric. He pulled up the bottom of Kiryu’s shirt up and wrung the thin fabric between his hands. Drops of rainwater hit Kiryu’s stomach, and Majima licked it off. 

 Kiryu shuddered. Majima had such a dirty mind, and something told him he’d only scratched the surface. He loved Majima for the man he was under the mad dog, but he loved the dog just as much. Loved how dangerous he was, how well he could fight, even the way he obsessed over him, even when it drove Kiryu crazy. 

 Majima looked about ready to tear Kiryu’s shirt to pieces, so Kiryu helped him get it off. Once he’d thrown it aside, he turned back to see Majima looking at him like he’d never seen his bare chest before. Kiryu stepped forward and grabbed Majima’s shirt, running his hands up his body as he pulled it up and over his head. Majima’s arms were trapped behind him for a moment, and Kiryu twisted the shirt, holding him there, then he stepped closer and kissed him. Majima moaned into his mouth, holding still for a few seconds, before wriggling out of the shirt to free his arms. 

 Once free, Majima grabbed him into a hug, letting their cool, damp bodies press chest to chest. He kissed Kiryu’s neck, and bit at his shoulder, the coldness of his skin made everything feel more sensitive. Kiryu rubbed warmth back into Majima’s back with his hands, while Majima’s hands dipped inside the back of his trunks, cupping his ass firmly with both hands. “I want this.” Majima growled, squeezing his ass cheeks. 

“Yes.” Kiryu hissed in his ear, then undid the tie at the back of his head and took off his eyepatch. Majima pulled their hips closer together, grinding against him. The rainwater dripped down Kiryu’s legs. “Let’s get these off. I’m getting cold.”

“Can’t have that.” Majima said, moving his hands around to the front of his trunks. He pulled the drawstring open and pulled, peeling the shorts off of him before Kiryu did the same for him. Despite the cold, Majima was just as hard as he was. “Let’s getcha warm, Kaz.”

 He pulled Kiryu down to the futon and pushed him onto his back, drying them both off with yet another clean towel. Majima covered himself with the blanket like a cape, and covered Kiryu with his body. “Yer so fuckin’ strong.” Majima growled, then kissed him. Kiryu relaxed, letting the warmth run through him, over him. Majima’s legs rubbed against his, keeping as much of his body against Kiryu’s as he could. Both his hands found Kiryu’s and pushed them up over his head, fingers intertwining and holding tight. Majima’s arms were pressed overtop of his, his weight heavy on top of Kiryu. He could handle it. He liked it. 

 Under the blanket, with his human furnace on top of him, Kiryu was starting to feel flushed. Majima’s mouth left his and moved to his jaw. His thigh rubbed against Kiryu’s as he jammed one hand down between their bodies. Groping at him till his hand closed around Kiryu’s cock. Kiryu made a noise that was muffled when Majima’s lips moved back over his, his tongue pressed into Kiryu’s willing mouth. Majima squeezed the hand he still held, then rested his forehead against Kiryu’s. He could feel Majima’s hot breath in his mouth as they both breathed heavily. 

“Turn over for me?” Majima asked. 

“I’ll do anything you want.” Kiryu said seriously, squeezing his hand. 

 The mischievous flash in his eye made Kiryu smile, but surprisingly, Majima stayed silent. He moved to the side so Kiryu could flip over and lie on his stomach, pausing to adjust himself as he did. Majima straddled his back. He pressed the heels of his hands on either side of Kiryu’s spine, moving all the way up to his shoulders. 

 Kiryu groaned. His back was more tense than he realized. He could hear Majima rubbing his hands together. 

“This stuff’s supposed to be massage oil too.” Majima said, as his thumbs, now warm and slippery with that coconut lube, dug into Kiryu back, finding every tight spot and tense muscle. After the urgency of undressing, this wasn’t what he expected. 

“That’s… so good.” Kiryu said, his face half smothered in the pillow. 

“I’ll give ya a full once-over sometime soon.” Majima said, as his hands continued to kneed into his lower back, down to his tailbone. Kiryu groaned again. He’d had massages before. Professional, no funny-business massages, which were harder to find than the other kind in Kamurocho. There was nothing innocent about this massage. Kiryu had never had one where he’d been turned on before it started, with a man sitting naked on top of him, paying an increasing amount of attention to his ass. 

“Warm enough?” Majima asked. 

 Kiryu turned his head to the side and looked at Majima out of the corner of his eye. “I’m on fire.” he said.

 Majima smiled. He rose up and shrugged the blanket off his shoulders, then picked up the lube bottle. “Spread yer legs, sweetheart.” he said. 

 Kiryu complied. Sweetheart was a new one, and he said it so sincerely that Kiryu  liked it. From the corner of his eye, he watched Majima kneel between his legs, massaging more of the lube on his upper thighs. His hands felt hot, slick, and strong against his muscles, squeezing his ass, and spreading apart his cheeks. Kiryu ground his hips down onto the futon, as Majima’s hands travelled up and down his thighs, closer and closer to his more sensitive areas. 

“Goro.” Kiryu said, nodding his head in approval as Majima’s fingers finally slipped down the cleft of his ass. He couldn’t help angling his hips up, leaning into the touch as much as he could from where he lay. Cool lube dripped down over Majima’s hand, and was then massaged around his hole. Kiryu’s breath hitched, and he tried not to hold it. “I’ve been thinking about this since the last time you did this for me.” he said.

“Me too, Kaz.” Majima said. “I’m achin’ for ya so bad.” 

 Kiryu moaned as Majima’s finger pressed inside. Kiryu knew what to expect this time, and did his best to stay relaxed. The massage had been helpful for that. Majima’s other hand was still trailing up and down his skin. He felt over Kiryu’s balls, gently, with such care. He’d never felt so relaxed and turned on at the same time.

“You’re so good at this.” Kiryu said, pushing his hips down onto the towel below him. 

“You’re… perfect.” Majima murmured, and added a second finger.

 Kiryu grunted and grabbed at the pillow as Majima’s fingers spread him open, as his other hand continued the massage. There was a growing urgency in both of their movements. Kiryu’s face pressed against his arm, and he moaned as Majima’s fingers pushed into him further, then completely withdrew. 

“Yer gorgeous like this, Kiryu-chan. Best sight I ever saw.” Majima said softly, grabbing his hips and pulling himself against Kiryu, leaning over his back. Majima held his own cock in his hand and rubbed it along Kiryu’s ass cheeks. “Can ya feel what you do to me? How hard you make me?” He let his cock fall heavily between Kiryu’s cheeks and squeezed them together, sliding his shaft against Kiryu’s slick skin. 

 Kiryu closed his eyes and let himself appreciate every touch, moaning in appreciation without caring how desperate it made him sound. He didn’t have to hide that part of himself with Majima. He didn’t have to hide any part of himself with Majima. “I love you.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima whispered the words back to him, his voice sounding as intense and vulnerable as Kiryu felt. Majima was pressing against him now, slowly entering him. Kiryu grabbed the pillow again. The discomfort was minor this time, and was nothing compared to the burning pleasure that radiated through his whole body. 

“Breathe, Kaz.” Majima said, “You’re doin’ so good.”

“Ah.” was all Kiryu could say in response. Majima was right on top of him again, still pushing inward, bracing himself with his left hand against Kiryu’s upper back till more and more of his weight was on top of Kiryu. Majima kissed the back of his shoulder, mouthing at the skin of his upper back. His right hand held Kiryu’s waist, pulling his hips back and up, till their bodies were as close together as they possibly could be. Majima reached for him till his left hand closed over Kiryu’s, holding on tight as he began to move. 

“You’re so hot.” Kiryu said, and because he knew Majima would like it, added, “You’re always so fucking hot.”

 The sound that escaped Majima was more of a whimper than anything else. His strong fingers dug into Kiryu’s hip as he drove into him, pressing him down to the futon, finding a slow, intense rhythm. He continued like that till they were both breathing as hard as they were during their earlier fight. 

“We’re supposed to be together.” Majima whispered, his breath hot on the back of Kiryu’s neck. Majima sounded awed, like maybe that statement had finally sunk in. 

“Yea.” Kiryu agreed, arching his hips up some more. Majima’s forehead rested briefly on his back, then he let go of Kiryu’s hand so he could hold his hips with both hands. Still thrusting slow and deep, he adjusted the angle and Kiryu gasped. 

“You good?” Majima asked. He sounded concerned but he didn’t stop. 

“Yeah, great.” Kiryu hissed, pleasure jolting through him with every thrust. “Never better.”

“Ya said that last time.” Majima said, sounding breathless. 

“Meant it then too.” Kiryu said, and groaned. Majima’s hand moved over his hipbone, towards his groin. “I- I won’t last if you do that.”

“Don’t need ya to last. Not with the way ya got me feelin’.” Majima said. “Lemme touch ya, Kaz.” Majima said, already lubing up his hand. 

“Yes, touch me. Ah!” Kiryu said, as Majima’s fingers found him. His slick hand encircled his cock, and the pleasure he was already feeling jumped to an almost unbearable level. He was making noise again, but he didn’t, couldn’t hold back. 

“Fuck, Kaz!” Majima said, “Hard as steel, hard like the rest of this gorgeous body. My Kaz…” the rest of that sentence was garbled as Majima moaned against his back. He drove deep into Kiryu, faster, but with the same burning intensity. Kiryu gripped the pillow in front of him as the tension rose higher and higher. He was so close. Majima was all around him, inside him, over him. Kiryu bit into the pillow to smother his yell as he hit his peak, spilling onto the towel below him. Majima held him tight, wringing him out as he shuddered and pulled at the pillow till he heard the seams start to tear. Finally he relaxed, collapsing down, feeling as boneless as Majima usually was afterwards. 

“Kiryu-chan, I’m gonna paint that dragon.” Majima said, squeezing his ass. 

In Kiryu’s state, it took him a few seconds to figure out what he meant. When it clicked, he smiled. He could feel the lube on his back drying, and he was plastered to the towel underneath him. “Do it. I’m already a big mess.” he said, turning his head to the side. 

 Majima laughed in that half-delirious way he did when he was turned on. “Oh, you are, aren’t ya.” he said, pulling out, making Kiryu shudder again. “I’m gonna mess ya up even more.”

 Majima leaned over him again. Kiryu strained his neck so he could watch. He’d always thought that the pinnacle of male beauty was men locked in combat. He was wrong. It was Majima, just as he was now. 

 Majima’s head was tilted back, eye-half closed, brow furrowed in concentration. His mouth was open, and kept twitching between grit teeth and an ecstatic smile. The muscles of his chest and stomach clenched and rippled, as did his right arm, which gripped his shaft. What a sight. His cock was hard, pink and dripping onto Kiryu’s back. Majima stroked himself quickly, his face contorting with effort, his other hand still touching Kiryu, grabbing at his ass, and tracing the lines of his tattoo. 

 Soon, Majima climaxed, shooting long lines onto his back, panting and shaking. His eye shut for a moment, then he kept eye contact with Kiryu as he caught his breath, slumping forward and onto his side so their faces were close together. 

 Kiryu couldn’t look away. He was so beautiful. He’d have to find a way to tell Majima that without having him brush it off. 

“Give me a sec, then I’ll get ya cleaned up.”

“Rest a minute, then shower with me.” Kiryu said, still lying on his stomach with his head to the side.  

Majima smiled at him. “You’re the only one I’ve ever showered with, outside of the few bathhouses that accept inked up dudes.”

“Really?”

 Majima chuckled, “Ya don’t have to look so damn surprised. That shit takes an extra level of trust.”

“Heh, I guess I didn’t think I could give you any firsts.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima made a show of looking offended. “Hey, I ain’t sayin’ I haven’t gotten around, but you’ve already given me plenty of firsts. Uh, this is the first time I’ve ever gotten this much sleep in someone else’s house. First time I’ve been in any kind of relationship with a guy longer than a night or two.” he closed his eye, “There’s more but I’m already gettin’ embarrassed.”

“Don’t worry about it.” Kiryu said. He sighed and let himself relax. 

 Despite his supposed embarrassment, Majima looked at him with so much affection that Kiryu started to feel flustered. “First ain’t as important as best,” Majima said, “and everything we’ve done since I got here has been the best… just the fuckin’ best.”

 Kiryu was touched. He knew saying any more would probably make Majima withdraw or change the topic. Instead he smiled. “Kiss me.”

 Majima leaned in, and gently kissed his forehead, his cheek, then let their lips brush against each other. “I love ya, Kaz,” Majima whispered against his lips.

 Kiryu had to clear the lump in his throat. “I love you.” he repeated. It was still shocking how strong that feeling was. 

 Majima smiled, and touched his cheek. “Okay, darlin’. Enough sweet stuff. Time to get clean.”

 He got to his feet with a loud grunt and found the cleanest towel. He wiped off Kiryu’s back and helped him up. 

 Soon they were in the shower together, under warm and soothing water. Majima hadn’t reverted back to jokes yet, staying quiet as they washed each other, looking at him with that genuine affection that made Kiryu feel just as speechless. Instead of talking, they held each other and kissed. Hard, open mouthed kisses, as if the mere minutes since they’d last kissed had been too long a time.

 Once clean, they stepped out and into fresh towels, drying each other without needing words. Finally, Majima smiled almost shyly. “I uh, I always thought bein’, ya know… in love… would make me weak, but I’ve never felt stronger. I think I could flip a car right now.”

“You make me feel the same way.” Kiryu said, “But let’s leave the neighbours’ cars alone.”

“Bet I could pick you up.” Majima said. 

 Kiryu frowned. “I don’t want you to hurt yourself.”

 Majima mistook his concern for a challenge. He held his hands out and hugged him again. Then his hands tightened around Kiryu’s back. He leaned back and tried to lift Kiryu. His feet left the floor for a second before Majima let him go and laughed. 

 Kiryu couldn’t help smiling. “That would’ve worked better if you were taller than me.”

“I am taller than you!” 

“We’re the same height.” Kiryu said, standing up straighter.

“Not with yer hair all flat.” Majima said, ruffling Kiryu’s wet hair, then combing it back with his fingers. “Look.” He wiped off  the fogged up mirror with his towel and positioned Kiryu so they stood back to back, then turned their heads so they could see themselves. “See?”

“Huh. Maybe a little.” Kiryu said. Even standing as tall as he could, Majima was slightly taller. “I’ve never kissed anyone taller than me before.”

“Another first.” Majima said, turning back to face him. “Hard to pry my lips off yours. You’re a hell of a kisser.”

“So are you. I never thought you’d be so into kissing.” Kiryu said. 

“Didn’t used to be. It’s all your fault.” he took Kiryu’s hand and pressed his fingers to his lips. “Feel that? They’re all swollen.”

 Kiryu moved his hand to Majima’s neck. “There are lots of other places I could kiss you.”

 Majima stepped closer. “Good line, Kiryu-chan. Yer lucky I’m wiped or I’d bend ya over the sink right now.”

“I need a break too, otherwise I’d let you.”

 Majima laughed as they finished drying off and started getting dressed. Kiryu knew he could have gone again, but he was happy to relax. His age hadn’t slowed him down much, but he wondered what it would have been like if they’d started this up in their twenties. 

“Have you ever thought about what would have happened if we’d gotten together when we met?” Kiryu asked.

 Majima looked up from buttoning his pants. “I don’t think ya could’ve handled me back then.” he said, sticking out his tongue. 

“I don’t remember ever backing down from you, except when I was ordered to.” Kiryu said, feeling defensive.

“Ain’t exactly what I meant.” Majima said, “When we met you were what, twenty one or so?  Would ya say you were more open-minded back then or less?”

“That’s… a really good question.” Kiryu said. 

“I know you were very obedient.” 

“Not always.” Kiryu said. 

“Ooh, a rebel, huh?” Majima said with a chuckle, clearly unconvinced. He picked up his shirt and frowned at it. “Do I have to put this on?”

“Not for a few hours. I like you better without it.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima threw the shirt at him. “Pretty cute, Kiryu-chan. C’mon. I could use a smoke.”

 Kiryu grabbed him and kissed the top of his shoulders before he let him leave. Majima laughed a truly carefree laugh, and Kiryu fell a little more in love. 

Chapter 27: The Tale of Yuki’s Embarrassing Party

 They were eating lunch when the rain stopped. Majima insisted on sitting right in Kiryu’s lap, and aside from the logistics of trying to eat like that, Kiryu had no complaints. He didn’t want to be any further away from Majima than he had to today. Last night had been difficult, and Majima was obviously just as eager to stay close. 

 As usual, after showing any kind of vulnerability, Majima was extra chatty. He told Kiryu about all the hurdles he had to jump to get his tower built, the countless inspections, and how some of his workers took a real shine to construction work and were able to leave the yakuza without too much trouble. 

“I’m surprised you let them go.” Kiryu said, trying not to drop food on Majima as he ate. 

“Ehh, it woulda been hypocritical of me, after makin’ em all leave the Tojo to start up the business, then draggin’ them all back into it. Or maybe I’m gettin’ too sentimental.” He shook his head. “I don’t think I would’ve admitted that to you before.”

“You once told me I was too soft for a yakuza. You weren’t entirely wrong.”

“That was mostly to get under yer skin. And I didn’t know ya as well back then. You’re only soft in the right sorta way. The way that makes you a hero, and makes you so great with the kids. Ain’t nothing wrong with that.” Majima said. “I hated it when you left, but you’re where you belong out here. I get that now.”

“And you? Where do you belong?”

 Majima smiled but he didn’t look happy. “I know where I wanna be. That might have to be enough for now.”

 Kiryu nodded, carefully putting his empty bowl on the table. He touched Majima’s back. “I’ll take whatever I can get. I know you have obligations, and it isn’t fair to ask you to leave it all behind.”

 Majima smiled and squeezed his arm. “If things were a little different, I’d start packing as soon as I got back. But like I said before, this is all new territory right now. And I don’t just mean us. The tower’s grand opening is in two weeks. And I gotta lay low on the crime-related stuff for a while. Just ‘cause I got out on some wrongful imprisonment, corrupt officer technicality bullshit, doesn’t mean they ain’t keepin’ a close eye on me and my family. And now Saejima’s back. Plenty of guys are pissed that he waltzed outta prison and right into a patriarch’s seat. And Daigo’s leadership is in trouble because people heard he got his ass handed to him for makin’ some dumbshit decisions. And… and fuck, I didn’t even think I’d be alive at this age, much less dealing with all this shit.”

 Majima was getting more and more tense with every sentence. Kiryu took his bowl out of his grip, and put it and his chopsticks down on the table. He dipped Majima back and kissed him. Majima chuckled but didn’t break the kiss. When Kiryu brought him back up Majima’s arms tightened around his neck, still sitting in Kiryu’s lap.

“I wish I could fix all your problems.” Kiryu said, “If you ever want to bounce ideas off me, or anything like that, I’m here.” Majima kissed him on the cheek.  Kiryu thought for a moment. “I could call and check in with Daigo once in a while. I never want to get in his way, but maybe that would help.”

“It sure as hell wouldn’t hurt. Daigo-chan looks up to you more than anybody. Him and I get along pretty good, but he needs someone around who’s more… level headed than me. Havin’ Saejima with him should help with that, so long as I can pull his head out of his ass and make him stick around.” 

 Majima sighed. “What Daigo needs most is trustworthy people watchin’ his back, and if Saejima goes through with his dumbass prison plan, it’s down to just me again. I won’t leave him alone. I promised you, and I promised myself. I don’t want him draggin’ ya back into any Tojo business, but takin’ to him once in a while might keep him from gettin’ too jittery.”

 Kiryu rested his hand on the back of Majima’s neck. “That sounds pretty level-headed to me.”

“Come on, I have my moments, but you know what I’m like.”

“I do, more than I ever have. As much as I want to keep you to myself, I understand why you can’t drop everything.”

“Yet.” Majima said. “If yer actually offering to let me stay, I think I could make it happen eventually.”

 Kiryu felt some deep tension inside him relax. He could handle eventually. “For you, I’ll wait as long as it takes.”

“Shit, you really mean that, don’t ya? This ain’t just wishful thinking?”

“I know the risks, I’ve thought about it, and I’m making the offer with a level head. I know it’s fast, but if you’re ever able to move in here, it would make everyone in this house happy, especially me. What you said before, about feeling stronger, that’s how I feel too. We’re supp-”

“Supposed to be together.” Majima finished with a grin. “I know, and yer right, we are. That makes more sense than anything else in my life. I care about ya, Kaz. Not just in the crazy obsessive way either, but in a mature, responsible sorta way.” he looked away and laughed. “It’s weird, but it finally feels like there’s a light at the end of the long-ass tunnel I’ve been stuck in.”

“That not weird. That’s nice to hear, even if it’s kind of sad.” Kiryu said. “Wouldn’t you get bored, living out here?”

“Do you get bored?”

“There are dull moments sometimes, mostly during the days when the kids are at school, but then I’ll go into town and find something to do.”

“If I was here, you’d always have somethin’ to do.” Majima said. Kiryu leaned in and kissed his neck. “Ah, Kaz, I’d get used to it. Doin’ the domestic thing would be a lot more fun if I’m not spending the whole time tryin’ to be somebody I ain’t. If we can just be ourselves, and be here, and watch the little ones grow… none of that sounds boring. Hell, it sounds like a dream come true.”

“It does.” Kiryu said, his mouth still against Majima’s throat. “Your skin feels so good.”

“I still have a mostly legit business that I could take a few steps back from. Nishida could keep things runnin’ and I could delegate a lot from out here. And I know you don’t want any ties, but I’m sure the Ryudo guys could put me to use out here if I got too bored.”

“Yeah.” Kiryu agreed. 

“Mmm, it can’t happen just yet.” Majima said. He ran his fingers through Kiryu’s hair, keeping him close to his neck. Kiryu licked at his adam’s apple. “If I could go back in time, I’d never’ve been so loud about how much I liked ya. ‘Cause if I left the Tojo now, there’s a few people who’d take issue with that and come after me, and if they were smart they’d find you. Plus the Omi’s gettin’ a little too big again, and they’ve always got one or two fat cats anglin’ for war. I won’t bring any of that hell out here. Not fuckin’ up your life is the most important thing.” He paused as Kiryu licked his neck again. “Yer still listening, right?”

“Yeah. But if anyone came looking for me, that would be a problem for them, not us.” Kiryu said. He couldn’t keep his mouth off him. The taut skin at Majima’s collarbone was so soft, and everything he said was making him happy, because they were working out the details of how this could actually work. His fingertips trailed over the defined abdominal muscles he’d always secretly admired. 

 Majima relaxed further into his touch. “Yer falling back into wishful thinkin’ instead of a practical plan, but fuck it, sure. We’ll kick anyone’s ass who comes near us. We’d have to keep on training. No slackin’ just ‘cause we’re out here livin’ the good life.”

 Kiryu smiled against his skin. “We’d have to spar together a lot.”

“You’re the best sparring partner a guy could ask for, especially when the fight ends the way it did this morning.”

 Kiryu leaned back to look at Majima in the eye. “My sparring partner. I like that.”

“You’ve… heard that term before, right?” Majima said, looking amused. 

 Kiryu smiled, ignoring that statement. “It feels right. More right than just boyfriend.”

“Ah, I get ya.” Majima said. “Works for me. Works for us.”

 Kiryu kissed his chest and hummed. “Mmm, my partner.”

 Majima let out a giddy laugh. “Yeah, I like that a lot. What’s happenin’ here? We goin’ again?”

“Yeah.” Kiryu said, flicking his tongue against Majima’s hard nipple. “I need to kiss more of you.” 

 Majima took Kiryu’s hand and placed it in his lap. Kiryu hummed when his hand brushed over the hardness between his legs. Majima sighed. “C’mon and get me out of these jeans, Kaz.”

 Kiryu rubbed his hand over the denim, then let Majima go so he could stand. They left their dishes for later and hurried the few steps it took to get back in the bedroom. Kiryu had a feeling that if they were anywhere else, Majima wouldn’t have waited till they were back in the bedroom. The consideration for his space filled Kiryu with affection. It made him wonder what it would be like when he went to visit Majima.

“Does your place have a big shower?” Kiryu asked, as he unzipped Majima’s fly. 

“Not as big as here. Why? Ya makin’ plans already?”

“Something like that.” Kiryu said, helping Majima wriggle out of his jeans. They laid back down on the futon. Kiryu was happy he hadn’t bothered putting it away. Majima laid on his back, with Kiryu at his side. 

“My shower might be kinda cramped, but we’ll make it work. I’m gonna want to have you on every surface of my place, that way I can think about you whenever I’m home.”

“You have two homes now.” Kiryu said. Majima paused. Kiryu worried it was too much, but Majima looked… he couldn’t quite figure it out. He didn’t look unhappy. “Goro?”  

“Yer bein’ too nice to me. I’ve already been too damn weepy around you lately.” He forced a laugh, then shot him an exaggerated glare. “So ease up if ya still wanna get any.”

 Kiryu reached out and tapped him on the cheek. The lightest possible slap. Majima laughed a more genuine laugh and would have bitten Kiryu’s hand if he hadn’t pulled it away in time. “I fucking love you, Kaz. I’m gonna keep tellin’ ya that. It feels good to say it out loud.”

“I love making you feel good.” Kiryu said. He kissed him, then reached into Majima’s underwear. “Tell me more about your place.”

 Majima stretched out on the futon, hands behind his head, eye closed, looking very comfortable as Kiryu touched him. “It’s nothin’ fancy. I told ya about the satin sheets and the big-ass bed, and my collection of booze. Those are the main selling features.” 

 He took a breath as Kiryu pulled his underwear off, a soft black pair that looked more like short-shorts than boxer-briefs. Kiryu closed his hand over Majima’s hardening shaft, and kissed the snake on his chest as Majima continued. “Um, it’s just a regular apartment other than that. Kitchen on one side, bunch of windows on the other. Couch, TV. Got a bunch of movies, lots of action flicks and,” he thrust his hips up, “adult entertainment.”

 Kiryu smiled. That didn’t surprise him. He closed his teeth around Majima’s nipple and Majima moaned. “Keep talking,” Kiryu said, “I love the way you talk.”

 Majima snorted. “Nobody’s ever told me that before.”

“That’s too bad.”

“Uh, okay. What else? Oh, hah! I got a big pile of unopened sex toys in my closet.”

 Kiryu paused and looked up. “What?”

“I ain’t sayin’ another word until you keep goin’.” Majima said with a grin, thrusting his hips up again. 

 Kiryu kissed him, before reaching over to Majima’s bag. He pulled out the big bottle. 

“Don’t goop me up too much. I don’t wanna have to take another shower and use up yer hot water.” Majima said. 

“That’s very considerate.” Kiryu replied, “I’ll just have to lick it off you.”

 Majima’s eyebrows shot up. “You’re gettin’ a little better at the dirty talk.”

“I’m working on it.”

“Say somethin’ else.”

“You’re the one who’s supposed to be talking.” Kiryu said, trying to hide his smile. “And soon I won’t be able to talk.”

“Why’s that?” Majima asked. He smirked, knowing full-well Kiryu was setting up another line. 

 Kiryu deepened his voice as low as he could. “Because it’s rude to talk with my mouth full.”

 Majima kicked his feet and laughed. “Yes! Ooh, Kazzy. I love it.”

 Kiryu laughed, gratified by the over-enthusiastic praise. He squeezed some lube into his hand, and rubbed it over Majima’s cock. Majima shut his eye and moaned loudly. He was always so dramatic, Kiryu thought fondly. “I want to hear about the pile of sex toys.” Kiryu said, and licked at his chest again.

 Majima chuckled. “It ain’t a sexy story, it’s a goofy-ass story.”

“I don’t care,” Kiryu said, moving down Majima’s body, his hand running down the smooth skin at his waist, “keep talking.”

“Okay, but I warned ya.” Majima said, “This was after yer stint at FourShine. Somehow in all that mess, Yuki got hold of my number and kept callin’ me about random junk. So I get a call from Yuki-chan. She says one of her new girls was throwin’ a party, and for some reason Yuki was hosting it at her apartment. She knew the girl was sellin’ something, but she thought it was candles or plastic containers or some shit like that. The girl said Yuki had to invite a bunch of people. Not sure why I made the guest list.”

 He moaned again as Kiryu’s mouth brushed against the tip of his cock. “Kaz.”

“What happened next?” Kiryu said. He was only half-paying attention, but he liked this game. “I like listening to you talk.”

Majima brushed his hand through Kiryu’s hair, still soft because he hadn’t done anything with it yet. “I wouldn’t have gone, but she pretty much begged me. So it’s me, Yuki and a bunch of hostesses. The only other men are these two really uncomfortable lookin’ guys. I don’t know if they were boyfriends or customers, but neither of them looked like they wanted to be there. They definitely didn’t like that I was there. Then the girl runnin’ the show pulls a tablecloth off the table to reveal the products, and it’s all vibrators and shit like that.”

 Majima laughed, which changed into a moan, then back to a laugh. “Stop, I can’t- I can’t tell you this story like this.” he said, pushing Kiryu’s face away. 

 Kiryu smiled. “I was curious how long you were gonna go on.”

 Majima grabbed his face. “And don’t ya just look pleased with yourself. Take your clothes off, Kazzy.” 

 Majima pulled at his shirt, until Kiryu took it and the rest of his clothes off. Majima grabbed him and kissed him. This morning had been intense. This was different. This was lighthearted, fun, and yet still sexy, as they touched each other and laughed into each others mouths. 

“Ever sixty-nined?” Majima asked, after letting go of Kiryu’s lip, which he’d caught between his teeth. 

“No.” Kiryu said. “Another first.”

 Majima kissed him. “Stay on yer side. This should work pretty good since I’m only a little taller than ya.”

“Just barely.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima chuckled, then spun around and lay his head on Kiryu’s thigh. “Don’t poke yer eye out, I didn’t bring enough eyepatches.” he said. As Kiryu laughed, Majima grabbed his hip and pulled himself close. He paused. “And no gettin’ too excited and chompin’ down.”

 Kiryu shuddered in disgust at the idea. “Same to you.”

 As soon as they both had their mouths on each other, the jokes stopped. Majima was different from him in so many ways, but on a physical level, he liked to give as much as he got. Kiryu understood this. This week had taught him that he was the same way. They moved in sync, hands roaming over skin, locked together in this new way, still learning each others bodies, but with enough knowledge to make each other moan.

 When it finally did become too much, Kiryu let him go. “Get back up here.” 

 With one last squeeze of his ass, Majima released him and in a few seconds they were face to face again. There was barely a pause while Majima found the lube, then their hands were back on each other. Majima leaned in, but not all the way. Kiryu closed the gap and they were kissing again. Majima really was good at kissing. Firm, precise, and wild, increasingly erratic but still with a strong sense of rhythm. Kiryu had that drunk feeling again. Majima’s lips were demanding, barely giving him enough time to breathe, but he couldn’t pull away. Majima let him go just for a moment to grab something, Kiryu’s black tee shirt he wasn’t allowed to wear for their fight this morning. Kiryu would have protested but he had to do laundry anyway. 

 Despite his earlier complaint of swollen lips, Majima kissed him again and again as the pleasure flared, till Kiryu had to tilt his head back. “I.. Goro..”

“Do it. Come on, gorgeous. I’m right here with ya.” Majima urged, his voice low and strained. “Look at me, Kaz.”

 Kiryu met Majima’s half-closed, single eye. Both of them were breathing hard, and when their eyes met Majima made a low noise that sent Kiryu shuddering forward. He kept contact with that sharp, wild eye as he came over Majima’s hand and into the balled up shirt he’d put between them. 

“Fuck, Kaz.” Majima said urgently. “So fuckin’ perfect.”

 With Kiryu’s free hand, he pushed Majima’s hand off him, then held his neck as he stroked him even faster, still shuddering with the after effects of his own orgasm as he guided Majima into his, still managing to keep eye contact when Majima gave that beautiful strangled gasp and came. Their foreheads pressed together as they recovered, catching their breath as they lay on their sides. Finally, Majima laughed.  

“Fuck, you sure know how to show me a good time.” he said. 

“I think everything we’ve done today was your idea.” Kiryu said, sitting up. He wiped his hands on one of the cleaner towels they’d left in the room and let Majima do the same. 

“Yeah, but you let me do it, and ya made everything better than I could’ve dreamed. You’ve always done that with all the weird shit I’ve gotten you to play along with.”

 Kiryu could think of a few glaring exceptions to that statement, but he understood what he meant, and took the compliment. “We work well together. I was wrong about the wet tee shirt idea. That was great. You’re a lot of fun.”

 Majima sighed and fell on his back, while Kiryu looked for his clothes. After he dressed, he grabbed the tee shirt and all the towels.  

“I have to put on some laundry. I hope this shirt doesn’t stain.”

“I’ll get ya a new one if you’ll let me keep that one.” Majima said, still lying flat and naked. 

“That’s gross.” Kiryu said with a laugh. “What do you need washed?”

“Uhh, hang on.” Majima said, and finally started getting dressed. He ran off to the bathroom, then met Kiryu at the washing machine with his dirty clothes. 

 As soon as they’d loaded it Majima kissed his shoulder as Kiryu washed his hands at the sink beside the washing machine. “I ain’t jokin’ about that shirt. And I ain’t ashamed of how gross I am for you.”

“Uh, thank you?” 

“Yer welcome. What are we doin’ for dinner?” 

 Kiryu shrugged. “I don’t know. We might be down to root vegetables.”

“I’ll go take a look. Are ya keepin’ the flat look today?” Majima asked, running a hand through Kiryu’s hair. 

“No, I just forgot. Why, do you like it?”

“It’s cute. Looks like ya just woke up.” Majima said, brushing through it with his hands.

“Haruka laughs at me when I wear it like this.”

“Then you should fix it.” Majima said seriously. 

 Kiryu shook his head. “You’re going to have her thinking she’s actually in charge around here.”

 Majima raised an eyebrow, as if to say Isn’t she? 

 Kiryu frowned. “Do you think I’m too soft with her?”

“Nah. You’re great. She just knows her stuff better than most kids her age. Part of the reason I like her. She’s tough in the same way you’re tough.”

“Thank you. That… means a lot.”

 Majima grabbed his arm to check the time off his watch. “Go fix yer hair. The kids’ll be home in less than an hour.”

 After ensuring his hair was styled back in its usual way, he found Majima looking through the kitchen. 

“Look, Kiryu-chan, the sun’s comin’ out.” Majima said as he got close. Kiryu put a hand on his back. 

“Good.” Kiryu said. “I think I still have…” he started, looking though a cupboard where they had a couple of beginner’s cookbooks. He pulled out a handwritten recipe card with very cute penmanship and handed it to Majima, who snorted as soon as he saw it. 

“I know that writing. Yuki’s beef stew, huh? Hope it’s less bland than it was twenty years back.” Majima said, smiling despite his criticism. “Hey, I never finished that story.”

“No, you didn’t.” Kiryu said. He took the recipe card back and started bringing out the ingredients. “Better tell me now before the kids get home.”

“Right.” Majima said, as they set to work preparing the stew. “Where was I? So, I’m at Yuki’s place, bunch of girls, two uncomfortable men, and her friend pulls the cloth off the table, and boom, there’s a bunch of sex toys.”

 Majima snickered. “The girls were all either laughing or embarrassed, and the two guys were stunned into silence. Yuki looked redder than a tomato, and about ready to cry. Then one of the guys makes a crack about unfulfilled housewives. I didn’t like that, so I go to the girl runnin’ the thing and start askin’ a bunch of questions.”

“Poor Yuki.” Kiryu said.

“She could’ve asked what it was she was supposed to be sellin’. Everybody was already embarrassed, I figured I’d at least make the party a success. So I sit myself down on the couch next to the guys with this catalogue, describing everything I’m lookin’ at, and I can tell the men are gettin’ more and more freaked out by me.” 

 Majima paused to laugh. Kiryu smiled. “What were you wearing?”

“I had a shirt on if that’s what yer askin’.” Majima said. “I think I was wearin’ that getup I stole from the crook who was doin’ the cabaret club commentary before I took over. The hell was his name? Bono? Burger? Somethin’ like that.”

 Kiryu had to laugh. “I thought you went and bought the same suit. You took it from him?”

“Hey, soon as I found out he was a criminal, he was fair game. He’s lucky I only took the suit… and tossed him in the river. But it was fine, he could swim.”

 Majima was carefully watching his reaction. Kiryu smiled a little guiltily. “I’ve thrown more than one man into that river.”

 Majima laughed and grabbed him around his waist. “Yeah, Kazzy! You get it. I’ll never like Sotenbori, too many fucked up memories, but there are some good bits. Even some places I wanna show ya some day. Did I ever tell ya that’s where I met old man Komaki?”

“No. I’d like to hear that story. Maybe after you finish the one you’re in the middle of telling me.”

 Majima’s hand snaked under his shirt and across his chest. “Ain’t my fault. You’re distracting me.” He kissed Kiryu’s shoulder. 

“I’m just standing here.” Kiryu said. 

“Yeah. Gorgeous and buff, holding a kitchen knife in that big hand of yers.”

 Kiryu had nearly finished with the carrots he’d been chopping. Majima’s praise didn’t make him feel as awkward as it did days prior. “You’re the one being distracting.” he said, as Majima hugged him from behind, having already finished his half of the chopping. Majima rested his chin on his shoulder and moved his right hand ran down Kiryu’s arm, then adjusted his grip on the knife handle. 

 Kiryu frowned. “Is this another cooking lesson?”

 Majima kissed his neck. “Nah, but if ya grip it a little closer to the blade like so, ya get more control. Makes it easier to speed up. Here, like this.” he said, and guided his hand into a more effective position. 

 Kiryu would be annoyed if it weren’t such useful advice, and if he weren’t being held the way he was. “I like this better than cooking alone.” he said.

“Next time I’ll teach ya to spin it in yer hand without slicing’ up yer digits.” Majima replied, before letting him go to stir what they’d already chopped in the giant pot they were using. 

“So, you were making the two men uncomfortable.” Kiryu said, reminding him yet again of his story.

“Yeah. Most of the stuff on the table was for ladies, but I had the catalogue in my hands, and made it a goal to find the raunchiest stuff. I was talkin’ to them like we were old pals, pointing out the oversized dildos and shit, till they finally got up and got the hell out with barely a goodbye.” he paused to laugh. “As soon as the guys left, and I was bein’ embarassin’ enough for everyone, the rest of the girls loosened up a little. I ordered a bunch of junk, and after a bunch of wine, so did a few of the girls. Yuki even cracked a smile by the end.”

“That was nice of you.” 

“It wasn’t nice, it was funny.” Majima grumbled, as if he were insulted. 

“And you keep them in the closet?” Kiryu asked. 

“I told ya, my address is a well-guarded secret. I don’t bring just anybody over there, and fuzzy handcuffs and double-sided dildos ain’t worth opening to get my rocks off alone, so most of it’s still in the closet, waitin’ for someone worthy to come along.”

“Heh, I’ll try to be worthy then.” Kiryu said. Despite the crass topic, it warmed his heart. 

 Majima waited till Kiryu put down the knife before grabbing his ass. “Ain’t nobody more worthy than my Kiryu-chan.”

Notes:

Poor Yuki. She thought she was having a Tupperware party.

Chapter 28: Stew and a Movie

 Kiryu spooned out the stew they’d started hours earlier. From the next room he could hear Majima telling the kids how he once beat Kiryu in a pocket circuit race. Kiryu had to leave the kitchen to make sure the kids knew that had only happened once. 

“He got so mad about it too.” Majima said with a laugh. “But then he came back a couple of days later and lapped my car. I didn’t stand a chance. They called him the fastest in Kamurocho for a reason.”

 Kiryu went back to the kitchen, happy that Majima had skipped the part about the especially heated fight they’d had in the Children's Park between those two races. With Mitsuo and Riona’s help, they brought the rest of the bowls out and sat down to eat. 

 The last time they’d made this stew, it had been a little plain. Kiryu had blamed that on his mediocre cooking skills, but Majima added several spices this time that made it taste much better. He didn’t want to admit that to Majima for Yuki’s sake. He owed her too much. 

 When they’d worked together, Yuki was eager to help from the moment he first  mentioned Haruka. That year, Kiryu had been struggling more than he’d ever admitted to anyone, and the legitimate income Yuki provided, along with an abundance of tips on how to raise a little girl, had been invaluable. 

 Yuki had grown up with a widower father, and was happy to pass along advice, and to share what she wished her dad had done for her when she was Haruka’s age. She taught him how to braid hair, where to shop, and how to get help with clothing sizes. Most importantly, she’d advised him on what to prepare for well in advance of when Haruka started dealing with puberty. 

 As mortifying as those conversations had been with Yuki, it significantly lessened the embarrassment when he had to talk to Haruka, and then Ayako about things like feminine hygiene products. He’d be eternally grateful to Yuki for that. They hadn’t talked much since he’d moved to Okinawa, but she and Haruka still exchanged cards on New Years.

 The kids all liked the stew. It was always a good sign when they went quiet while they ate. 

“It’s good the rain stopped.” Koji said once his bowl was empty. He was always the fastest eater in the group. “I really want to play baseball tomorrow.”

“Me too!” Mitsuo agreed. Those two didn’t like being kept indoors, and they were nearly done with the sports manga they’d been writing together. 

“Uncle Kaz, should we go shopping tomorrow?” Haruka asked. 

“Yeah. We can meet you at the market same as last time if you want.”

 Haruka nodded. 

“Any requests?” Majima asked the group, “My last night’s Monday, so if there’s anythin’ ya want fer dinner while I’m here, now’s the time to ask.”

 After a second of contemplation, the kids started yelling out their favourite meals. Majima laughed and held up his hand to stop them. “Okay, okay. Maybe after dinner we’ll make a list. No promises, I ain’t a chef, but if I can figure it out we can give it a whirl.”

“Thank you, Majima-san.” Ayako said, prompting a round of thank-yous from the group. 

 Majima smiled. “I really like you guys. And I want in on that baseball game tomorrow.”

 Even though the rain had stopped, the ground was wet and the wind was strong. Not ideal for outside play. They all sat down to watch a movie after Majima took note of their dinner requests. 

 By the end of the movie, Izumi had fallen asleep next to Majima. She barely stirred when the rest of the kids were all getting ready for bed. Majima carefully gathered her up and carried her over to the girls’ room. He said his goodnights alongside Kiryu and they made sure the kids had everything they needed, then the two of them went to sit on the front step for a smoke.

“Couldn’t believe it when Eri-chan told me it was June first.” Majima said, “I’m losing all track of time out here.”

 Kiryu smiled. “That can be dangerous, at least when you have to keep things like school schedules and bill payments in mind.”

“I ain’t distracting ya from that shit, am I?”

“No, it’s under control. The first year was tough, but I’m used to it now. A banker helped me set up a lot of automatic payments, so everything’s already taken care of for today.”

 Majima nodded. “Look at those clouds move. It could get choppy on the water tomorrow.”

“You look happy about that.” Kiryu said.

“Calm water sounds too boring for a speed boat. I want waves. I wanna catch air. I wanna flip some kayaks!”

“Don’t get carried away, I still have to show my face in this town afterwards.” 

 Majima laughed loudly, then covered his mouth. “Sorry kids.” he said in a loud whisper. 

“They won’t be asleep just yet, except for Izumi.”

“Don’t tell anybody but I think she’s my favourite. I’m gonna miss the hell out of all of you when I leave.”

“The door will always be open to you here. Always.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima looked at him for a long moment, then looked back out at the fast moving clouds, grey against the dark sky. “I think… I think this might’ve been the best day of my life.”

“Goro-”

“Shut up. Nothin’s gotta be said about it. Just had to tell ya.”

 Kiryu reached out and took his hand, holding it tight till they finished their cigarettes. Majima looked so content, an expression Kiryu had rarely seen before this week, but the best day of his life? He couldn’t stop the smile on his face if he’d tried. It had been a great day. Kiryu wanted to keep giving him great days. 

 Later, when they laid down together, Kiryu moved Majima so he was in front of him. Kiryu held him from behind and pulled him close, kissing his neck before resting his head on the pillow. Even after a day like today, it was difficult not to feel the effects of having Majima’s warm body pressed up against him.

“I’ve never been so happy.” he murmured in Majima’s ear. 

 Majima grabbed his arm and pulled him even closer. “Same, Kaz. I can’t wait to get ya out on the water. Never fooled around in a boat before.”

“What?” Kiryu asked, a little too loudly. 

 Majima laughed. “I’m kidding. Unless circumstances are just right, it’s probably a bad idea.”

“Heh, I can’t imagine a circumstance where it’s a good idea.” Kiryu said. 

“We’ll just have to see.” Majima said. He still sounded like he was joking, but Kiryu wasn’t entirely sure. He’d called one of the rental places at the harbour earlier. The rough voice that answered told him to show up with cash and they’d be good to go. They’d planned to head out as soon as the kids left for school. 

“I’m really looking forward to doing this with you.” Kiryu said, and kissed Majima’s shoulder. “We’ll have a good time.”

“Hell yeah.” Majima said with a happy sigh. 

Notes:

Once again, thank you for continuing to read! I’m writing this entire thing on my phone, and I’m also dealing with a nasty case of brain fog. The word Kiryu keeps autocorrecting to Kitty, and I’m almost positive I’ve caught them all, but if a Kitty suddenly shows up down the line, that’s why 😁

Chapter 29: Speed Demons

“Hold still.” Kiryu said, rubbing sunscreen into the back of Majima’s arm.

“I am, I just wanna get goin’.” Majima said, as he wiped his hands over his neck to get rid of the excess sunscreen. He had at least stopped bouncing like an impatient child. “How far away is this place? Should I wear real shoes or am I okay in sandals?”

“It’s not far. I’m wearing sandals and this.” Kiryu said, pointing to the tee shirt and black shorts he wore. “If you don’t want to wear your dress shoes you could see if a pair of my running shoes fit.”

 Instead of turning around to face Kiryu, Majima bent backwards and tilted his head all the way back to look at him. “Yeah, our feet are probably about the same size, don’t ya think?”

“Maybe.” Kiryu said. Majima raised an eyebrow. When Kiryu was no less confused, Majima opened his eye wide and pointedly looked at his groin. “Oh. Heh, probably.”

 Majima laughed. Kiryu took advantage of his position and grabbed him, dipping him further backwards into a kiss worthy of the cover of a romance novel. Majima hooked his leg around his waist before Kiryu brought him back up. 

“That was romantic as all hell.” Majima muttered, scratching the back of his head. 

 His reaction made Kiryu chuckle. They were getting good at flustering each other. After gathering their things and deciding to both wear sandals, they took the fifteen minute walk down the road to the harbour. 

 When they arrived, Majima took the lead in dealing with the owner, a man who looked the part of a grizzled old sailor, till a few compliments on his operation brought forth a gap-toothed grin. 

 Majima got them a much better deal than Kiryu would have. He never liked haggling, but Majima did it masterfully. His whole demeanour changed. Kiryu had seen him intimidate men into doing what he wanted, but this wasn’t that. This was a veteran businessman doing what he did best. 

 Kiryu was glad he wore sunglasses. This way he could observe with appreciation without looking like he was staring, especially when they started talking about looking the other way when it came to boating licences, something Kiryu hadn’t even considered. 

 The sailor led them to a small, two person speed boat. It was old, but in good condition, with a gold painted steering wheel surrounded by faux wood paneling. 

“Which one of you is gonna be the captain today?” the sailor asked. 

“This guy.” Majima said, pointing at him. “Kiryu here’s the responsible driver.”

 The owner looked at him. “Kiryu-san? You run the orphanage down the street, don’t you?”

 Kiryu took off his sunglasses. “Yeah, at Morning Glory.”

“We see the kids playing on the beach sometimes from out on the water. It’s good to see those poor children laughing and having fun.”

“They’re good kids. I try to make their lives as normal and happy as I can.” Kiryu said.

“That’s an awful nice thing to hear. I was orphaned myself at sixteen. Old enough to look after myself, but if I’d been a little younger I don’t know what I’d’ve done. Probably would’ve drank less, but who knows.” The old sailor said with a raspy laugh. “Luckily I knew my way around a crab boat, and the captain drank even more than me. You know how to drive stick? It isn’t too different than that.”

 Kiryu ignored the devious face Majima was making from behind the old man, and focused on what he was being told. The controls were straightforward, and after he’d asked a few questions, and heard a lot more about the sailor’s time on fishing boats, Kiryu assured the owner that they’d be back within the hour and carefully drove away from the dock, Majima sitting at his side. 

 As they manoeuvred out on the open water, Majima snickered. “What is it about you that makes everyone tell ya their life story?”

“Heh, I wish I knew.”

 The waves were choppy, just as Majima had wanted. Kiryu sped up and took them head on. He had to smile, enjoying the wind in his hair as he took them into a hard turn, then sped up again, testing the engine’s limits. Majima laughed wildly, and his giddy energy was infectious. 

“Go around that thing!” Majima yelled as they approached a buoy. 

“I see it.” Kiryu said, and turned with plenty of time to spare. After a few minutes he eased up. They slowed down, far away from the shore and just about everything else. Majima let out a loud whoop. 

“Ya don’t waste any time, Kiryu-chan! Do ya drive cars as fast as boats?”

 Kiryu nodded. “I never get the chance anymore, but I would if I could. I really liked driving superiors around back when I first joined up.”

“I didn’t know that. I could’ve used a speed demon for some of the shit I used to pull way back when. Damn!” Majima squeezed his knee, “Someday I’ll rent us a sports car and let ya go fuckin’ wild.”

“That sounds great.” Kiryu replied, “I’d love to drive around with you.”

 Majima leaned back in his seat, his hand still on Kiryu’s knee. “It’s a date.”

 Kiryu looked at him, smiling in the sun. He squeezed his hand over Majima’s, then returned it to the wheel and sped them off again. 

“Kiryu-chan! Kayakers!” Majima yelled, pointing towards a spot in the distance. 

“I’m not going to harass people.” Kiryu said with a laugh, “What do you have against kayakers, anyway?”

“Nothin’, I just wanna get ‘em.” Majima said. 

 Kiryu laughed, which seemed to appease his passenger. They drove far away from the kayakers, and towards the wake of a large ship. 

“Hang on, Goro.” Kiryu said, speeding up again, then hitting the wake much harder than he expected. They caught air, then connected against the surface of the water with a jarring slap. 

 Kiryu slowed. “Sorry. Is your neck okay?”

 Majima moved his head around. “Just fine, but I don’t wanna hear any more outta you about my crazy driving. You okay, Kaz-chan?”

“I’m great.” Kiryu said. “I’m happy we’re out here together. It’s exactly what I wanted.”

 Majima lowered his sunglasses. He was facing the sun, and it lit up the deep, warm hue of his eye. Beautiful. “If this thing had a roof on it you’d be in trouble.”

 Kiryu nodded. “If there was no one else around I would’ve pulled you into my lap by now.”

 The look of shock on Majima’s face was gratifying, and Kiryu sped off again before he could answer. He felt energized, and he liked being able to show Majima his skill behind the wheel, even if he was still figuring out this particular wheel. They followed the coast for a while, still fast, but he tried to avoid anymore large waves. 

 Majima rested his hands behind his head. “We gotta do this again the next time I make it out here.” 

“I hope that isn’t too long from now.” Kiryu said. 

“Yeah, me too. Been thinkin’ about what I’m gonna say to Saejima. Got a feelin’ he’s gonna try to run off to prison without sayin’ goodbye. I got a few people makin’ sure that don’t happen. It’s a big reason why I can’t stay any longer.”

“And your grand opening.” Kiryu reminded him.  

“Ehh, I could weasel my way outta that if I really wanted. It’s Nishida who should be cuttin’ that ribbon anyway. That guy did more work on the Hills than anybody. Don’t tell him I said that.”

“I’d rather keep you here, but you should be there for that. For all of that.”

“Yeah.” Majima said reluctantly. “I ain’t happy about missin’ yer birthday, though.”

“Heh, that’s not a big deal.” Kiryu said. “I hadn’t even thought about my birthday this year.” He paused, slowing the boat. “I don’t know when your birthday is.”

“It’s already passed.” Majima said with a shrug. 

“When? Not while you’ve been here, right?”

“Nah. Couple weeks before. May 14th.”

“That’s close enough. I wish I’d known, we could’ve had a cake for you. The kids love celebrating birthdays.”

“‘Course they do. Kids love any celebration that involves cake.” Majima said. 

“What kind of cake do you like?” Kiryu asked. 

“I don’t need a cake, Kiryu-chan!”

“Don’t get defensive, Can’t I ask my partner what his favourite kind of cake is?” Kiryu asked. 

 Majima chuckled. “When ya put it like that, fine. I don’t usually like anythin’ too rich, but a good tiramisu is nice. Or somethin’ light, with cherries or pineapples, I don’t know…” Majima trailed off, like maybe he was embarrassed. It was hard to tell for sure over the boat’s engine.

“I’ll remember that for next year.”

“I got no idea what next year’s gonna look like, but sure.”

 Kiryu thought for a moment. He was surprised at Majima’s reaction. He’d expected him to be the sort of man who made a big deal out of his birthday, but Kiryu didn’t ever remember hearing about any big celebrations for him. Maybe he was just annoyed about the other things they’d talked about. 

“Will you tell Saejima about us?” Kiryu asked, easing up again so they could hear each other better. 

“Dunno. I used to tell him everything. More than he ever wanted to hear. It ain’t like we’re startin’ from scratch but a lotta shit’s happened since the two of us were best buds.” Majima said, he looked out at the shore, looking serious. 

“Does he know you’re, um…”

“Bisexual?” Majima asked, looking back at him.

“Oh, is that what you… uh yeah, that.”

“You can say it. It ain’t a bad word.” Majima said, the smile returning to his face. 

 Kiryu grit his teeth, determined to break  through the wall in his mind and talk openly about this. “D-does he know that you’re bisexual?”

 Majima slapped his leg and shot him that shining smile that Kiryu loved. “There ya go.” he said. “And yeah, more or less. It ain’t somethin’ we ever talked about, but back in the day, probably six months before it all went down, we went out and got real shitfaced. At the end of the night he caught me making out with a guy at the back of a bar. I wasn’t even out to myself back then. I passed it off as a drunk, shameful mistake. Saejima never brought it up, but he didn’t change how he acted around me either, which is a lot more than most people had ever done for me.”

 Kiryu nodded. He wouldn’t have expected any less from Saejima.

“Then when we had our first meal together after he broke out, he asked if I had anybody in my life, and was real subtle about the way he asked. You were around him long enough to know he ain’t a subtle guy. It was good, knowin’ we still got each others’ backs, even after all the shit we both went through.”

“If you want to tell him, I’m okay with that.”

“Thanks. It might come up, and I don’t like lyin’ to him. Ya don’t have to worry about him blabbin’ to anybody. The guy’s a vault.”

 It was difficult not to think of Nishiki when Majima spoke of his own sworn brother. 

“Do you ever wonder what would have happened if I hadn’t taken the fall and gone to jail?”

“Taken the fall? You mean you didn’t kill Dojima?” Majima asked. 

 Kiryu looked sharply at Majima and found him grinning. “Funny.” Kiryu said flatly. 

“I never thought ya did. Plenty of other people did, but not me.”

“Thanks.” Kiryu said. 

“After that cool-headed speech ya gave me right before it happened, I knew it couldn’t’ve been you. Plus…” Majima grit his teeth, like he was holding himself back, “I know he was your bro, so I won’t badmouth him too much, but I will say that you were never stupid enough to wave a gun in my face. That was a big fuckin’ clue.”

 Kiryu opened his mouth, but couldn’t find the words. He wondered why he even brought this up. Majima continued. 

“To answer yer question, I dunno. Our bosses probably would’ve had us at each others throats. We could’ve ended up hating each other’s guts. Or we could’ve figured out how good we are together and run the fuck away from all of it.”

“I like the second scenario better.” 

“Ehh, that’s just wishful thinkin’. The more likely scenario is my boss woulda seen me take a shine to ya, and sent me as far away as possible.”

 Kiryu frowned, then his curiosity got the better of him. “I always wondered why you were so loyal to someone like Shimano.”

 Majima grimaced. “It’s too nice a day to talk about heavy shit like this, Kaz. For now let’s just say… it took years longer than it ever fuckin’ should have to realize I traded one shitty father for another.”

 Majima’s hand was back on his knee. Kiryu took it and squeezed. “What’s important is we’re together now.”

“Hell yeah. Give her some speed, Kaz!”

 They took off again, and all too soon it was time to start heading back. Kiryu made sure they got a good view of Morning Glory as they returned. 

“Tsh, there’s another towel on the beach. I keep telling the kids they have to stop leaving them out there.” Kiryu said. It was a minor annoyance, but it bothered him, especially since he hadn’t noticed it during their last fight. Even from a distance he could tell it was wet. 

 “Hang on a sec. Before we go back I want a picture.” Majima said, taking his phone out of his pocket. Kiryu let them slow down till the boat was floating in the waves. It took some time to get a steady shot with the flip phone, but they got a pretty good one where they both looked happy. Kiryu sent it to his own phone before passing Majima’s back. 

“We need to take more of these. How’s it work that you lookin’ so good makes me look good too? It’s like yer handsome rubbed off on me through the lens.” Majima said, looking at the photo. 

“You don’t need me to look handsome.”

“Cute, but ya know what I mean.”

 Kiryu chuckled. “No I don’t. That doesn’t make any sense. You look good because you look happy.”

“And whose fault is that, huh?”

 Kiryu shook his head, as Majima poked him in the shoulder and laughed. There was no way to win that conversation, but Majima did look happy, and that’s what mattered. 

 He parked the boat with only a little difficulty, and the owner praised his control considering his inexperience. 

“We’ll come back someday.” Majima told the old sailor, “I’m just visiting, but if ya got a big enough boat, the kids would love to get out on the water.”

“I don’t, but my buddy down at the end of the dock does tours and such.”

“There’s gotta be some kinda special charity price for poor orphan neighbours. You’ll never find better behaved little ones.”

 Kiryu almost protested at that, but he kept his mouth shut. It would be fun for the kids, and while Kiryu was getting better at budgeting, he knew there was no way this would be in reach for them without help. Majima continued to negotiate with the man even though he wouldn’t be the one renting the boat. He exchanged phone numbers, and they all left happy. 

“Thanks for that.” Kiryu said, offering Majima a cigarette as they stepped back on the road. “If we do a trip with the kids, I want you there for it.”

“Like I told the guy, it won’t be soon, and he said the off-season is better for them anyway. So in the fall or winter, we’ll figure it out. I just wanted to plant some seeds, get him talkin’ about it with his pal.”

 As they walked back to the house, Kiryu still felt charged. Majima walked with his hand in his pocket, letting their shoulders brush against each other once in a while. 

“I’m serious about renting a sports car.” Majima said, after a long drag of his smoke. 

“Good.” Kiryu replied. “Make sure it has a roof… and a big backseat.”

 Majima raised his eyebrows. “Ooh, yeah. I was picturing a little two door thing, but your idea is better.” Majima said. He nudged Kiryu with his shoulder, “Havin’ somethin’ like that to look forward to might make leaving this place a little easier.”

“We still have almost a week, but I don’t want to think about that. Let me buy you lunch at the soba place in town.”

“You keep talkin’ it up, I gotta try it now.” Majima said. “We can stop at the house for a couple minutes though first, right? My teeth are floating.”

“Heh, gross.” Kiryu said, and continued a little faster towards the house.

 They reached the door, and Majima rushed past him towards the bathroom. Kiryu sat down on the dining room floor. He’d driven so little since he got out of prison, and he missed it. He remembered Nishiki getting mad at him for driving his precious car too fast. He waved that memory away, and replaced it with Majima laughing as they sped across the water, hand on his knee. 

 He heard fast footsteps before Majima rushed into the room and fell to his knees in front of him. Overdramatic as always, he grabbed Kiryu’s shoulders and kissed him like it was the most important thing in the world. Kiryu pulled him into his lap and wrapped his arms around his waist as Majima straddled him where he sat. 

When Kiryu finally tore his lips away, Majima was smiling as wide as he was. “Thanks for a great morning.” Kiryu said. 

“Fun, wasn’t it? And I learned somethin’ new about my Kiryu-chan!”

“Yeah.” Kiryu said, and kissed him again, “We should go soon.” 

 Majima loosened his grip. It was tempting to keep him where he was, but they’d never get anything done if he did. Majima sighed like he was thinking the same thing. “Alright, give me a sec, I want to change into less beachy clothes.”

 They both changed, opting for pants and closed-toed shoes. Majima pulled on his gloves, and his double-stranded gold chain. He touched Kiryu’s chest and kissed him once more before they left the privacy of the house.

 The feeling of that soft leather glove on his skin was familiar, and it gave Kiryu a thrill. He’d been touched like this before, but usually mid-fight, with one or both of them pissed off and bloody. He put his hand over Majima’s, holding the gloved hand against his chest. 

“We’ve come a long way, you and I.” he said, pressing their foreheads together. 

“Still can’t believe I’m allowed to touch you like this.” Majima said softly, his thumb caressing Kiryu’s sternum. “Now, come on! Let’s get some grub before I say screw it and fuck ya. Or say fuck it and screw ya.”

 Kiryu shook his head as Majima laughed at his own bad wordplay. “You’re ridiculous, and I love you.”

Chapter 30: A Lunch Date

 Kiryu and Majima walked unhurriedly towards the train station. It was still bright out, and they’d both kept their sunglasses on. Kiryu didn’t know if it was the glasses that made them look more intimidating than usual, but they were given plenty of space when getting on the train. 

“This thing feels like it’s crawling after bein’ in the boat.” Majima said, stretching his legs. The train wasn’t busy, giving them both plenty of legroom. 

“Yeah. I haven’t gone that fast in a long time.”

“Not since I drove ya away from the Diet building?” Majima asked. 

“No, Haruka and I got to fly in a fighter jet after that happened.”

“What?” Majima asked, loudly enough that it made everyone in the train look over.

 Kiryu lowered his voice and told him the story, till they left the train and walked into town. 

“Personally, I try to stay the fuck away from government agencies like the CIA, but I don’t think I’d turn down that ride either.” Majima said. “You ever hear from that other Kazama? I stopped payin’ attention to that whole mess once it stopped involving me and you.”

“No. I don’t expect to ever hear from him again. At least, that’s the impression I got the last time I saw him.”

“Is that a good or bad thing?” Majima asked as they sauntered down the street. 

 Kiryu shrugged. “It’s probably for the best.”

 He didn’t know what else to say about that. It was painful to look at a face that looked so much like his mentor, but who didn’t know him at all. Majima punched his shoulder, a gesture of support.  

“Hey,” Majima said, pointing across the street at a giant traffic cone, “bring back any memories?”

 Kiryu nodded. “Every time I see that thing I think of you.” 

“I think of you every time I see the ones in Kamurocho. That and the rubber smell of bein’ inside one for almost an hour ‘cause you went and walked down the wrong street.” Majima said. “I’m hungry. Who knew sittin’ in a boat could work up an appetite?”

“We’re almost there.”

 Kiryu was happy to find seats open at Waraba Soba. They sat down and took off their sunglasses. Majima was wearing a plain black eyepatch today. The elderly woman behind the counter froze when she saw it, then lit up when she saw Kiryu. 

“Oh, Kiryu-san! Welcome. We have plenty of our Rafute Soba today.” she said before greeting Majima just as warmly. 

“Sounds good to me.” Majima said. 

“Yeah, two bowls, please.” Kiryu added. 

“Of course. You’re always so polite.” She turned to Majima, “Kiryu-san once dropped everything he was doing and helped us out with some important deliveries.”

 Majima chuckled. “Seems like everybody in town’s got a story like that.”

“I’m not surprised.” The woman said with a sweet little laugh that sounded younger than her years. She deftly dished out their bowls with a smile. 

“Since he’s clammed up, I’ll introduce myself. Majima’s the name. The broth smells great.”

“Oh, aren’t you kind. Everyone calls me Mitsu.” 

 Kiryu shot a guilty look at both of them. Despite how many times he’d been to this place, he’d forgotten the lady’s name. Majima was right about the broth, and the soba looked as good as it smelled. 

“Nice to meetcha, Mitsu-han. Our friend Kiryu’s been talkin’ about how great this place is for days. I had to come see for myself.”

 Mitsu laughed again. “Is that so? He says so little when he’s here, except when he brings one of those dear children with him.”

 Kiryu felt like he should say something, but Majima looked like he was enjoying himself, and he wasn’t sure what to say. Instead he focused on his food while Mitsu chatted with Majima. After they’d taken a few more bites, she brought up a topic she mentioned nearly every time he visited. 

“…and he’s often alone. I keep offering to introduce him to my cousin’s neighbour’s daughter, who’s a lovely young woman, but he declines every time. Perhaps he’s shy.” Mitsu said, as though Kiryu wasn’t sitting right there. 

 Majima leaned forward. “Ah, don’t worry about him. He barely talks about it, even with his good buddies, but I hear he’s got a girl in Tokyo.”

“Oh, does he?” Mitsu asked, “You’re right, he’s never mentioned a girl.”

 Kiryu frowned. “Majima-”

 Majima interrupted him, still looking at Mitsu. “Don’t know why he doesn’t talk about her but...” he lowered his voice to a loud whisper. “I heard she’s kinda trashy. Blonde hair, tight dresses, heavy drinker-”

 Oh. That girl. It was Kiryu’s turn to interrupt. “Don’t.” he said, “Don’t talk about her like that.”

 Majima raised his eyebrows. Kiryu turned to Mitsu, who looked very interested. He thought for a second. “I don’t talk about her because I don’t get to see her as much as I want. And she’s not trashy, she’s beautiful.”

“I guess I shouldn’t listen to rumours.” Majima said. He turned back to his bowl and started slurping his noodles, sounding unaffected, but Kiryu caught the affection that passed briefly over his face.  

“That’s lovely, Kiryu-san.” Mitsu said, “I won’t pester you anymore now that I know you have a sweetheart. I hope I can meet her if she visits.”

“Thanks. If she does I’ll bring her by.” Kiryu said. He couldn’t help picturing what bringing Goromi out here would look like. 

 Another couple of customers had arrived, and Mitsu turned her attention to them. Under the table, Majima knocked his knee against Kiryu’s and smiled. 

 They finished up and after saying a cheerful goodbye to Mitsu, they walked back the way they came. Majima let Kiryu pay, but he glared at him the whole time, and Kiryu had to fight not to laugh. 

“That was a real sweet answer back there, Kiryu-chan.” Majima said. His sunglasses were back on, but it was obvious how happy he was. 

“I won’t let anyone insult Goromi. Not even you.” 

 Majima chuckled. “I’ll pass that along. She’ll like that.”

“I didn’t know I could send her messages through you.”

“It’s either me or Nishida, but he’s been pretty busy lately. Probably best to stick with me.”

“Heh, probably.” Kiryu said. “We have time before Haruka gets out of school. Do you want to see if a pool table’s open?”

“So long as yer ready to lose a game of nine-ball.”

 Majima followed as Kiryu turned the next corner, weaving through the crowd towards Aqua Sky.

“Well? Ya got any messages for her or not?” Majima asked. 

“I’ll have to think about it. I don’t want to say the wrong thing.”

 Majima smothered a smile. “Good call. Unlike some people, she likes playin’ hard to get. Ya don’t wanna piss her off.”

 Kiryu nodded solemnly. “Do you have any advice?”

 Majima laughed and punched him in the arm. “Are ya askin’ me to be yer wingman?”

 Kiryu’s mouth was starting to feel sore from smiling. “I can’t think of anybody who knows her better.”

“Yeah, but that no secrets thing don’t apply to her. A girl’s gotta have some mystery.”

“I don’t just want to know about her. There’s still lots I don’t know about you.”

 “Like what?” Majima asked. “Ya already uncovered the mystery of when my birthday is and what cake I like.”

“Those are the sort of things I want to know. We’ve had a lot of serious conversations lately, but I don’t know your favourite kind of burger, or if you’d rather play card or dice games, or apples or oranges.” Kiryu said. He saw the neon sign for the bar ahead and pointed it out.

 Majima snorted. “Lotta food questions, huh?”

“That’s just off the top of my head. I want to know everything.”

 Majima just smiled. After a moment, he looked over again. “Oranges, cards, and Smile makes a pretty good teriyaki burger. How ‘bout you? I once saw ya scarf down three burgers in a row, and they were all different kinds.”

“I like oranges, and cards too. My favourite Smile Burger is their stewed pork, but the best burger I’ve ever had came from that steak restaurant in the hotel district.”

“I didn’t know that place had burgers.”

“They do if you save the manager from a corrupt loan shark.”

 Majima shook his head as they stepped through the doors to the bar. “Ain’t nobody like you, Kaz.” 

 The bar was fairly empty. Two elderly men were playing darts, but all the pool tables were free. As they stepped inside, Kiryu met the eyes of the man who’d attacked them last week. He stared at the two of them, open-mouthed, and left as soon as the path to the door was clear. After he ran out, Majima turned to Kiryu. 

“Who the hell was that?” Majima asked. 

“The guy you took a knife from the other day.” Kiryu said, still glaring at the door. 

“Hah! I hope he comes back with another one. I could start a collection.” 

“I hope that was him realizing he should stay as far away from us as possible.” Kiryu grumbled. 

 Majima tugged on his shirt. “Relax. It’s nothin’ we can’t handle. Ya want a drink? I’ll get us a drink.” He looked sternly at Kiryu, like he wanted to make sure he didn’t argue. 

“I’d like that.” Kiryu said as he grabbed a pool cue. 

“Ya ever had an Old Fashioned?”

“Maybe once, a long time ago. I usually stick with whiskey on the rocks.”

“It’s rye, orange and a bit of sweetness. I think you’ll like it.” Majima said, walking to the bar without waiting to an answer. 

 It took him a while to return. Within seconds, the bartender was laughing. A minute later, Majima had vaulted over the bar and grabbed a bottle while the bartender listened with rapt attention. 

 After they first met. Kiryu couldn’t understand why anyone would follow Majima around with such loyalty. His unpredictable, violent ways weren’t what Kiryu saw as leadership behaviour. 

 But Kiryu had yet to see this side of Majima. The part of him that could read people like a book and ask just the right questions to get what he wanted. As an ally, he was fun and exciting to be around. Generous with his money, never afraid to call out something when it wasn’t right, fiercely protective of his own people, even though he knocked them around worse than most patriarchs. Then again, for all his vicious threats and thrashings, he didn’t remember ever seeing a member of the Majima family with less than ten fingers. 

 Every glimpse of those other aspects of Majima over the years had made Kiryu more intrigued by him. He’d tried hard to bury those feelings, or tell himself it was curiosity for someone who navigated their profession in a wildly different way. He told himself it wasn’t admiration, or attraction, or any other deeper feeling. He definitely wasn’t lying to himself, or building up a wall in his brain he was still trying to knock down.

 Kiryu smiled to himself. It was far less exhausting now that he didn’t have to do those mental gymnastics every time he saw Majima. He finally had a better understanding of what made him tick, and he loved him for it. 

 After setting up the pool table, Kiryu looked back over at the bar. On Majima’s instruction, the bartender swung the bottle he held behind his head before pouring it into a glass from a height. Majima nodded, and slapped the bartender on the back. He  took two drinks from a different part of the bar, then strode quickly over to their table. He passed a glass to Kiryu and they clinked them together. 

“I like this a lot.” Kiryu said after the first sip. 

“Thought ya might.” Majima said. “You can make it with bourbon too, but this is how I like it.”

“Were you teaching the bartender something?” Kiryu asked. He took another sip, then passed a pool cue to Majima. “You break.”

 Majima nodded and put his drink down on a nearby table. “The guy needs to learn some bar tricks ‘cause his boss wants to liven this place up. I showed him a couple of beginner moves. I said I’d probably be back before I leave to see how he’s doing.” 

 He spun the cue over his shoulder and took his shot. The balls clacked against the table, but none went in. Majima sneered at the table like it was its fault.

“I guess I’m not the only one who likes to help strangers with their problems.” Kiryu said, as he took his turn. 

“Don’t go spreadin’ that around.” Majima said, “I got a reputation to maintain.”

“Not in this city you don’t. Very few people know who you are here.”

 Majima paused. “Hmm. Hadn’t really thought about that. A brand new batch of eye rumours are just waitin’ out here. I’m gonna start tellin’ people a swordfish got me, or hell, maybe I’ll play up the pirate angle.” He snickered and continued the game. “So, ya had some shit ya wanted to ask about Goromi?”

 Kiryu frowned. He hadn’t thought too far ahead. “Hmm, when I met her at Shine, was that her first appearance?”

 Majima’s eyebrows rose. “That’s a hell of a lot more in depth than apples or oranges.”

“You don’t have to answer.”

 Majima paused. “The first time that she appeared… was 1988.”

“Really?”

“Yep. During my Sunshine Cabaret days. One night I let Yuki and the girls play dress-up as a gag.” he said, and snorted at the memory. “They wanted to go dancin’ after that. I was under constant surveillance, but she wasn’t. We snuck out and drank and danced for hours. It was… it was the most freedom I’d felt since I lost the eye.”

 Kiryu tried to concentrate but missed his shot. Majima had lost the eye in ‘85. Three years prior. “I had no idea.”

“It’s not something I talk about much, or ever, actually.” Majima said, and took the next turn. “Gave me a hell of an appreciation for the strength it takes to wear heels all night.”

 Kiryu nodded. “I was impressed when she fought me in heels.”

“She paid for that the next day, that’s for damn sure. Worth it though.”

Kiryu considered his next question. “What kind of gifts does she like?”

That put a smile on Majima’s face. “She’s got expensive taste, but she can buy her own shit. Anything small is just fine. She likes pink.”

“I figured that, about the pink.” Kiryu said, “She looks great in pink.”

“What a charmer, Kiryu-chan. Speaking of presents, what d’ya want for yer birthday?”

“I don’t know. A phone call would be nice.” 

 Majima made a face. “That’s nothing. Think about it, and let me know.”

“I don’t need anything, but I’d like a phone call.”

 “Of course you’re gettin’ a phone call!”

 They chatted about their food preferences, and Majima talked more about bartending, which seemed to be a real passion of his. The conversation stayed light, the sort of subject matter he’d expect for a date at a bar, made far more exciting because it was Majima. 

“What did ya want to be when you grew up?” Majima asked. 

“I always wanted to follow in Kazama-san’s footsteps.” Kiryu said, almost automatically. 

“Everybody knows that. I’m talkin’ before. Little kid dreams.”

Kiryu thought about it. “When I was really young, I wanted to be a race car driver. That and a rock star.”

 Majima’s warm smile made him feel a little flustered. “I can’t believe I never knew you were into big cars too. Thought ya just liked the little ones.”

“The caretaker at Sunflower, the orphanage where I grew up, he had a vintage car he was always working on. He let me help him out with it. It was easier to pay attention to that than anything in school.”

“And here I was thinkin’ I knew everything about ya. And hey, if ya ever wanna record a song or two, I know a guy. Well, I know a guy who knows a guy who could make a phone call… but I could get that going.”

“Thanks, but I’ll stick with karaoke.” Kiryu said.

“Too bad. I’d listen to your album nonstop.”

 The compliment made Kiryu feel warm. He had to admit, the idea was a little intriguing. “Your turn.”

“It is if ya miss this shot.” Majima asked. 

 Kiryu opened his mouth to tell him he wasn’t taking about the game, but Majima waved his hand, fully aware already. 

“I wanted to be a singer too, or some kind of entertainer… I ain’t got the pipes for it though. Not like you.”

“I’ve heard you sing karaoke. I like your singing voice, when you’re not screaming.”

“Screaming’s half the fun of karaoke!”

 Kiryu won their first game. After Majima won the second, Kiryu checked the time. “We should get going.”

“What? No tie breaker?”

“Not today. I don’t want to keep Haruka waiting.”

 Majima waved at the bartender as they headed out. Kiryu felt light on his feet, like he’d had a lot more than just the one drink. It felt surreal to be doing the things he liked to do by himself in town, with a smiling Majima Goro at his side. 

 They made their way towards the market, Majima idly humming as they walked. They were nearly there when Majima stopped abruptly and walked into a store that sold cosmetics. Kiryu followed him, uncertain why they were there till he saw a school uniform at the end of the aisle. 

“Haruka-chan!” Majima called. She looked up, startled, then smiled when she saw them. 

“Uncle Kaz, Majima-san.” she said with a nod of her head. “They let us out ten minutes early so I was just looking around.”

 Majima looked at the display in front of her. “If you’re lookin’ for foundation this ain’t a good brand for ya. This stuff’s too heavy for your completion.”

“Oh. I don’t really know much about it.” Haruka said, sounding embarrassed.   

Majima walked over to another display. “If ya were gonna get somethin’ this is the sorta thing ya want. Ya got nice young skin, so ya don’t want anything too heavy. Anything more’ll just looked caked on and clog up yer pores.”

“Oh, okay. Thank you. Um, how do I know which shade to pick, if I were going to buy it?”

“Here, I’ll show ya.” Majima said, and launched into a crash course on foundation. Haruka listened closely, and asked questions Kiryu would have had no idea how to answer. He took their grocery cart from her so she had both hands free. 

“How do you know so much about this, Majima-san?” Haruka asked. 

“Did Kaz never tell ya I used to manage two whole cabarets? I worked with hostesses for years. Those gals usually go heavy with their makeup, but since you’re just startin’ out, you’re gonna want to keep it simple.” he said, handing her a long tube of what Kiryu assumed was lipstick, but was only slightly brighter than her lips. “Weird that you’re old enough to start wearin’ this stuff. Feels like last week you were this tiny little thing tearin’ around Kamurocho with this guy.”

 Haruka shifted her weight between her feet, still looking uncertain. “Well, we’re not allowed to wear any at school, but some of my classmates are going to see a movie on Saturday night, and those girls all wear makeup now, and I just thought…” she trailed off, blushing. 

 Majima looked at Kiryu, silently asking for permission. Kiryu nodded. He saw no harm in it, and if her friends were already wearing it, he didn’t want her feeling left out. Majima smiled, and put a hand on Haruka’s shoulder. 

“Okay. So we got foundation and a lip gloss. How do ya feel about tryin’ mascara?”

 They continued through each aisle of the store. Majima kept handing Haruka things, including a set of brushes, some makeup remover, and some kind of sponge. There was so much more to cosmetics than Kiryu realized. No wonder Haruka felt lost. He was relieved Majima was here because he had no clue what he would have done. 

“Here we go, kiddo. All the basics, and a few things for down the road when ya get more comfortable. We can practice back at home. I’ll show ya the ropes.”

 Haruka nodded, arms full, looking a little overwhelmed as they took everything to the counter. There was a line gathering behind them, so Kiryu hung back to give them space. Haruka took out her wallet as the items were scanned. 

“Put that away.” Majima said, taking out his own wallet.

“But I still have all that money you gave me last week.” Haruka said. 

“That’s for food. This is… I dunno, just cuz.” Majima said.

“Are you sure?”

“‘Course I’m sure.”

“Thank you very much.” Haruka said formally. 

“Aww, that’s so cute.” The girl behind the counter said. She looked barely twenty. “I wish my dad bought me makeup.”

 Haruka giggled and touched Majima’s arm. “Yeah, he’s a really good dad.”  

 Kiryu had a good enough view from where he stood to see the shock on Majima’s face. It made Kiryu smile. He turned and left before they finished paying, and met them outside of the store. Haruka was smiling and pulling a slightly stunned Majima along by the arm. 

“Did ya hear that, Kaz? Yer kid wasn’t horrified at the idea of bein’ related to this mangy ol’ dog.”

“I heard. I didn’t expect her to be horrified.” Kiryu replied. “Upset maybe.” he added, making them laugh. 

“Majima-san, can you put this in my backpack please?” Haruka asked, handing him the bag of makeup and turning her back to him. 

 Majima did as instructed. “There’s probably somethin’ in between Majima-san and Dad you could call me, if ya wanted.”

“Uncle Majima?” she suggested, as they started walking to the market. 

“That works.” Majima said. He spoke casually, but looked pleased. 

“Thank you for the makeup, Uncle Majima.” Haruka said seriously. 

 Majima was all smiles as he pulled out a folded paper from his back pocket. “I wrote down a bunch of the kids’ suggestions. If I can just figure out what the hell I wrote, we’ll be doin’ fine.”

 It took both Kiryu and Haruka’s help to decipher Majima’s messy notes, and once they did they ended up with an almost overflowing cart, and two full bags that Majima carried. Kiryu hauled the cart along the sidewalk as Haruka said she still had a few hundred yen left from the money Majima had given her. She walked up ahead of them, looking at the store displays they passed. 

 Majima leaned in closer to Kiryu. “You went real quiet back there. You aren’t mad I got her all that stuff, are ya?”

“No. I don’t know anything about makeup, and she never spends much money on herself. I’m really grateful. Almost as much as she is.”

“It’s been a while since I coached a girl on makeup. I promise I won’t make her look like a hostess.”

 Kiryu chuckled. “Thanks.”

 He looked up and saw Haruka looking back at them with a knowing smile. That look didn’t worry him anymore. Majima must have caught it too because he laughed. 

 They caught up with her, and Kiryu asked the details about this movie she wanted to see on Saturday, and which of her classmates were going. Despite her cheerful and outgoing personality at home, Kiryu knew Haruka had trouble making friends. He was happy she was making progress. What he didn’t like was her being out late on a Saturday night. 

“If the other kids are okay on their own for a few hours, why don’t we go to that bar again. We could meet her after the movie and head home together.” Majima said. 

 Haruka looked up at him, her eyes pleading. 

Kiryu nodded. “If Ayako and Taichi are okay with that, it should be fine. I’ll talk to them when we get home.”

“Yay! Thank you both.” Haruka said, with a small excited hop that made Kiryu happy.

 The train was busy, but Kiryu didn’t care. He had Haruka and Majima beside him, and nothing on the train mattered more than that. 

“Do you ever take the eyepatch off in public?” Haruka asked. 

“Nope. I get enough weird looks as it is.” Majima said. “And I don’t feel dressed without it. Feels like walkin’ around with my ass hangin’ out.”

 Haruka covered her mouth to hide her laugh. 

Majima made a show of looking guilty. “Can I say ass, or is that swearing?”

 Haruka smiled mischievously up at him. “No. Don’t say ass.”

“Heh. Now you’ve both said ass.” Kiryu said. The matching looks or faux shock from the two of them couldn’t have been better than if they’d planned it. Despite the moving train, Kiryu clapped a hand on each of their shoulders. It was the most he could do without actually hugging them. Kiryu wished he could capture the bright smiles he got in return. He tried to commit it to memory as best he could. 

 Once they left the station, it seemed Haruka had the same idea. “Uncle Kaz, will you take a picture of the three of us?”

“Sure.” he said, taking out his phone. He waited till they were in front of a large flowering hedge and held the phone up at arms length. Haruka and Majima leaned in. It took three tries, but he was happy with the results. 

“I shoulda brought mine with me. It’s got a better camera.” Majima said. 

“We can take more before you go.” Haruka offered. 

“Yeah, let’s do that.” Majima said. 

 Kiryu sighed. The two of them looked as happy as he felt. He looked at the photo again and smiled.

Chapter 31: Pasta Math

 The three of them came home in a good mood, which spread to the other children as if there were something in the air.

 Haruka changed and joined the baseball game on the beach while the two men unloaded the groceries with Shiro, whose enthusiasm for cooking hadn’t faltered. They explained which ingredients would be used for the dishes they were planning on making as they put them away. Shiro listened carefully, and looked happy when Majima asked if he wanted to help him make dinner later. 

 But before that, Majima said he had a baseball game to play. Kiryu and Shiro followed him out to the beach where the rest of the kids were playing. 

“How long have you known Majima-san, Uncle Kaz?” Shiro asked. 

“We weren’t always friends, but we’ve known each other for about twenty years.”

“That’s twice as old as I am, because I’m ten!” Shiro said.

“Heh, yeah. That makes me feel really old.” Kiryu replied.

“How’d’ya think I feel,” Majima said to Shiro, and poked Kiryu in the arm. “I’m even older than him.”

“You are?” Shiro asked, like that was shocking information. 

 Majima chuckled. “Are we that ancient to ya?”

“Um.. no.” Shiro said, after carefully considering the question. This made Majima laugh. He rushed ahead and slid into the sand near where the baseball game was happening. 

“I just thought he was younger than you.” Shiro said seriously. 

“Majima-san will like to hear that. At our age, it’s nice when people think we’re younger than we are.”

“I’ll tell him.” Shiro said, and ran after Majima. After a few seconds, he heard Majima’s loud laugh and he put a hand on Shiro’s shoulder. 

 Kiryu didn’t feel like playing baseball, and instead sat down next to Riona, who was sitting cross-legged on a beach towel and drawing in her notebook. 

“What are you working on?” Kiryu asked. 

 Riona handed him the book. She’d been designing dresses lately, and showed Kiryu her latest work. He didn’t know much about women’s clothing, but he liked how much care she put into the drawings. It occurred to him that this was another thing Majima had experience with. When he was waiting to bat, Kiryu called him over to have a look. 

“I like the lines on this one.” Majima said, after Riona passed her notebook over to him. He tapped a drawing of a long red dress. “Ya got a good eye for fashion. A lot of ladies in Tokyo are wearing stuff just like this.” 

 Riona looked happy. “I saw a dress like it in a magazine. This skirt too.”

“I like this purple one. I used to know a girl who had a real flowy dress like that. It got caught in an escalator once and she almost lost the whole thing.”

“Did it ruin the dress?” Riona said.

“Only the bottom part. She saw it happen and her and her friends got it out before it got ripped to shreds.”

 They went through the book together till Majima was called back to the baseball game. The smile on Riona’s face only enforced how Kiryu was feeling. That Majima being around really was good for the kids. 

 Kiryu watched as Mitsuo stepped up to bat. Majima was pitching now, and yelled every time he threw the ball. The other kids laughed, but stopped at the crack of the bat. 

“Home run! What a hit!” Majima yelled, shielding his eye from the sun to follow the ball. Koji and Ayako went running after it, but even their two fastest runners took a while before they brought the ball back. Meanwhile Mitsuo had run around the bases with a giant smile, and sat back down with the other kids, who were all cheering for him. 

 Once Majima finished pitching, Kiryu approached him. “I can cook dinner, Nii-san, but I don’t know what the plan is for tonight.”

 Majima got to his feet. “Yep, I got a lotta requests for the pork fried rice, so we’re makin’ that again. Come with me, Kaz. You didn’t get the lesson last time.”

“Sounds good.”

 Majima’s team was disappointed he was leaving, till they heard what he was going to make for dinner. Kiryu nodded at Haruka, who has taken over pitching, then the two men and Shiro walked back to the house.

 The kids were all happy about their dinner, and Majima looked just as pleased once they’d sat down to eat. He’d talked Kiryu through making his recipe, while telling him about how he used to make it for his “employees” back when his family was still small. It was fun cooking together, despite, or maybe even because every time Shiro’s back was turned Majima slapped him with his spatula.

 After dinner, the kids worked on their homework and drew pictures. Kiryu walked over to where Shiro and Majima were once again working together.

“We’re doin’ pasta math for tomorrow’s dinner.” Majima said as Kiryu sat down next to him. They had a cookbook open, and Shiro was writing on a loose piece of paper next to it. 

“Oh, carbonara. I haven’t had that in a long time.” Kiryu said. 

“I’ve made it before, but only for two people.” Majima said. “This recipe’s for four servings, but we’re switchin’ it up for fourteen. It better be good ‘cause we’re makin’ a lot. S’why we bought that mountain of eggs.”

“That way, if somebody’s more hungry than usual, there’ll be enough.” Shiro said solemnly. 

“And if not, a couple of lucky people get leftovers.” Majima added, looking over the recipe again. “Hmm, we might have to do this in batches. It might not mix too good if we do it all at once.”

“I’ll leave you to it. Let us know how we can help tomorrow.” Kiryu said, then turned to make sure the other kids were doing okay with their work. Koji was doing a report on leopards, and Kiryu spent the next ten minutes reading about the big cats  

 

“What a day.” Majima said at the end of the night. Kiryu laid down, and Majima hit the light and joined him.  

“My mouth hurts from all the smiling. You really spoiled me today.” Kiryu said. He pulled Majima up and kissed him. Majima’s fingers brushed against the stubble at his jaw. 

“That was nothin’.” Majima said, resting his chin on Kiryu’s chest, lying directly on top of him. “I had a hell of a time. And Haruka, she didn’t even blink when that cashier said…hah, that threw me for a loop.” He chuckled, “We’re gonna do a practice run with the makeup on Friday, Ayako too. Figured ya wouldn’t mind. I don’t know what the starting age for makeup is but I’m assuming the teenagers are okay.”

“Yeah, that’s what I would’ve said. I’ve never paid attention to when girls started wearing makeup.” He touched the side of Majima’s face, his thumb stroking his cheekbone. “You’re giving them something I can’t. I do what I can for the kids but there’s a lot I don’t know, and there’s a lot I’ll never be good at.”

“Kaz.”

“I’m not feeling sorry for myself, I’m trying to say that you being here is great for the kids, and I want to make sure you know that. What Haruka said, she was right.”

 Majima tightened the grip he had on Kiryu’s waist, resting his cheek against his chest. “Thanks.” he whispered. 

“I hope that doesn’t put too much, I don’t know, expectation on you.”

“Why would it?” Majima said.

“If… you do end up here long term, the kids will look to you as a guardian. It’s a lot to ask.”

“Why’re ya worried ‘bout that all of a sudden? It takes a lot more than a group of little kids to scare me off.”

“I don’t know. Living with nine kids can be a lot to handle. I want to make sure you’ve considered that too.”

“Despite what ya might think of me, I have been thinkin’ pretty damn seriously about this. 

 Kiryu smoothed down Majima’s hair. He’d never get tired of this feeling. “If Haruka’s going out on Saturday, let’s do the wrestling match Sunday afternoon.”

 Majima chuckled, drawing lazy circles over Kiryu’s chest. “We should practice for it in the next couple of days. The fights we’ve had so far haven’t screamed wrestling.”

“I was thinking the same thing. We’ll come up with more of a plan, figure out what you’re going to wear.”

“Right. Ya said something about shorts. I wanna see the getup you’ll be wearing, maybe do a dress rehearsal or something.”

“Sure.”

“And what’ll we do with the rest of the time?” Majima asked, and licked his skin. 

Kiryu sighed, feeling relaxed despite Majima’s weight fully on top of him. “Whatever we want.”

Chapter 32: In and Out of the Water

 On Thursday morning, Kiryu woke up to an oppressive, humid heat. He lay on his left side. In front of him, half off the futon with limbs spread, was Majima. His arm lay across Kiryu’s neck, and even that felt too hot. He picked up the arm, and placed it at Majima’s side. Majima grumbled something unintelligible but didn’t wake up. 

 They’d barely touched each other the day before and still had a great time. Kiryu had no idea a relationship could be this fun. Obviously there were going to be obstacles. The distance was going to be tough, but Majima had said that he could get here eventually on a more permanent basis. He’d have to cling to that in the meantime. It still felt too short a time, but they had today and Friday to themselves, a weekend with the kids, and then one entire day before he left on Tuesday. 

 Majima huffed a sigh in his sleep, as if he could hear Kiryu’s train of thought. Kiryu looked him over again with a smile. After doing enough laundry, he discovered that Majima had three pairs of those black, silky pyjama pants he liked so much. His body shimmered with a thin layer of sweat, and his skin looked slightly flushed from the heat. They had to work on their wrestling moves today, but Kiryu knew it might be too hot to spend much time in the sun. 

“Whatcha lookin’ at?” Majima asked, his voice dry. Kiryu hadn’t noticed that his eye had opened. 

“How hot you are.” Kiryu said.

“Ya got that right.” Majima said, wiping the sweat off his brow. “Ugh.”

 Kiryu pulled himself closer and kissed him. Majima’s right hand held him by the neck, while his left gripped his arm. Majima looked up at him, content and even more flushed than before. Kiryu smiled. “One of these days you’re going to let me call you beautiful without rolling your eye.” he said, amused because the eye roll happened before he was finished speaking. 

“Maybe someday, gorgeous.” Majima said. “What time is it?”

 The alarm went off before he could answer. Kiryu rolled over and turned it off. Majima’s fingertips ran along his back. 

“Why’s it already so hot?” Majima asked,  sitting up and rubbing his eyelids.

“It’s the start of summer in Okinawa. I was thinking we should go swimming today.”

 Majima cleared his throat. “I wanna jump in the sea right now.”

“Go for it. I can handle everything this morning.” Kiryu said. He sat up and stretched, enjoying the appreciative look he was getting as he did. 

“And miss breakfast with you and the kids? Nah. But once they’re off, I’ll race ya to the water.”

 Most of the kids looked as groggy as Kiryu felt. Majima perked them all up with jokes, and Taichi, who even in the heat had energy to spare, made sure their large oscillating fan was aimed in the right spot so they all benefited from it. 

 After they said their goodbyes to the kids for the day, Kiryu went back to the kitchen. Majima had gotten there first, and to Kiryu’s surprise, had his whole head under the tap.

“Majima!” 

 Majima threw his head back, his wet hair splashing Kiryu. “I’m back to Majima, huh? Or s’that only when I’m gettin’ scolded?”

“I’m not scolding, Goro, I just didn’t expect to find you climbing into the sink.”

“I was just dunkin’ my head, Kiryu-chan. I don’t make a habit of takin’ baths with dirty dishes.” Majima said, shaking his head back and forth like an animal, spraying Kiryu with more water. “It’s hot, I had to.”

 He didn’t look the least bit remorseful, and snickered as Kiryu wiped the water off his cheek. “I had to.” he insisted. “Now let’s get these dishes done so we can get outside.”

“You’re so mature when you aren’t dunking your head.”

“You are scolding me, aren’t ya? You’re just bein’ too nice to do it right.”

 Kiryu chuckled. “Fine, I’ll be direct. Keep your head out of my sink.”

 Majima touched his neck, trailing his fingers along the drops of water that he’d put there. He looked at Kiryu, eye wide with a show of innocence that didn’t match his devious smile. “No.”

 He lunged towards the sink, but Kiryu grabbed him around the waist and lifted him up and away. Majima laughed and went limp in his arms. Kiryu wasn’t expecting that and nearly dropped him, which only made Majima laugh harder. He placed him back down on his feet, and his smile spread to Kiryu’s face. 

“If you’re so hot, why are you still wearing a shirt?” Kiryu asked. 

“Good question.” Majima said. He pulled it off quickly along with the eyepatch, then slicked his wet hair back. 

“Better?” Kiryu asked. 

“For now.”

 They did the dishes efficiently. Majima was still laughing under his breath, looking pleased with himself. 

“Your hair looks good pushed back like that.” Kiryu said once they were finished. “It shows off more of your face.”

 Majima looked like he didn’t know what to say. He grabbed Kiryu’s shirt and kissed him. “Let’s jump in the ocean.”

“Let me get changed. We should put on sunscreen too.”

“I say we take the sunscreen, and put it on after our body temp goes down a few degrees, after we jump in the ocean.” Majima said. Still holding his shirt, he pulled Kiryu along to the bedroom so they could change. 

“You really do go crazy when it gets hot, don’t you?” Kiryu asked.

“You ain’t seen crazy yet. Not today anyway.” Majima said, showing his teeth in a smile that didn’t reach his eye. 

 Kiryu had to laugh. He knew he should get Majima in the water as soon as possible. It felt like he might get bit if he waited much longer. Even though their conversation had been light-hearted, Kiryu couldn’t help feeling a pang of worry. It was only June. There would be plenty of hotter summer days to come. Would Majima want to be around for that?

 He shut his eyes. That wasn’t a problem for this week, or even this year, but it was hard not to think about. He turned away from Majima and changed into a pair of swim trunks. Majima did the same. Kiryu could feel the proximity as he was approached from behind. Then he laughed as he felt the light pressure of teeth on his neck. 

“I knew you were going to do that.” Kiryu said fondly, turning around to face his wild-eyed partner. His swim shorts were a bright red version of the shiny pink ones he had. It complimented the colours of his tattoos. “You look great.”

“Come on, Kazzy, let’s go already.” Majima said, sounding like a sullen child.

“In a second.” Kiryu said. He left the room and grabbed sunscreen and the big beach blanket. Majima gave a frustrated groan, but took some towels and put on his sunglasses, forgoing the eyepatch. He wore his goggles around his neck. 

“Here.” Majima said. Kiryu turned around to see Majima holding his sunglasses, which he put on for him. “Come on, Kazzy, I’m melting!” 

 They walked quickly across the street. Majima waited till they had the blanket and towels set up under the beach umbrella Kiryu had grabbed from the side of the house. Then he kicked his sandals off and put his goggles on. 

 Kiryu removed his sandals, and put his sunglasses down on the towel. “Now!” he said, and Majima took off like a bullet towards the ocean. Kiryu ran as well, but Majima was quicker. He splashed into the waves till he was deep enough to turn and fall backwards. His back hit the water, and a few seconds later, Kiryu followed his lead. 

 The cool water was an instant relief. Kiryu reached for Majima’s hand under the surface as they floated on their backs, faces just barely out of the water. Even though his ears were underwater, he could hear Majima’s loud, happy sigh. 

 They stayed like that for a few minutes, till Majima yelped and frantically kicked his legs. Kiryu stood as Majima laughed and held up a big bundle of seaweed. 

“Didn’t know what the hell that was.” he said. His smile turned mischievous. Kiryu couldn’t see Majima’s eye under the goggles, but the intention was clear.

 He held up a hand before Majima could move. “If you throw that at me, I’ll drown you.”

 Majima looked offended. “You would never, Kiryu-chan.”

“Probably not, but I would make you wear it as a wig.”

 Majima grinned. “That desperate to see Goromi again, huh?”

“Heh, that doesn’t seem like her style.”

“Nah, she’s a sophisticated lady. Maybe a little trashy, but not this much.” Majima said. He balled up the seaweed and threw it off into the distance, then pulled his goggles up to his forehead. “You keep talkin’ about her like it’s normal, ya know? It’s not somethin’ I’ve ever had with anybody before. So, thanks.”

 Kiryu took his hand under the water again. “She’s a part of you. I love all your parts.”

“Kaz.” 

 Kiryu thought for a moment. “I’ve felt more like myself than I ever have since you’ve been here. You’ve helped me take away so much of the shame I felt for being… uh…” Majima squeezed his hand. “Um, bisexual, I guess? I was thinking about it and that’s probably the right word. It feels right.”

“Makes sense. I knew you were into chicks ‘cause of the way ya ogled those busty bug-lady cards. That game wasn’t half as innocent as ya kept pretending it was.”

 Kiryu chuckled. “Haven’t thought about those in a while. I gave all my cards away because I was worried Haruka would find them.”

“Good call. I’ve seen that judgemental look she gets.” Majima said, then grasped his forearm under the water. “Say it again, Kaz. Loud and proud.”

 Kiryu took a breath. “I’m.. bisexual.” he said. Not loudly, but with more conviction than before. It felt awkward, but it also felt right. 

 Majima smiled at him. “Good on ya, Kaz. Seriously. If we were inside right now I’d jump on ya.”

“I need to get some sunscreen on you.” Kiryu said. 

“Yeah.” Majima agreed reluctantly, “I don’t wanna get outta the water, but I really don’t wanna spend the rest of my time here red and pissed off.”

 They walked back to shore and dried off. Safely sheltered under the privacy of the beach umbrella, Kiryu took his time rubbing sunscreen into Majima’s back. 

“A week ago I was really nervous doing this.” he said.

“Those nerves ya had were what made me hope that somethin’ might actually happen between us. I’d never seen ya like that before.” Majima replied, then turned his head to look back at him. “I was nervous too.”

“You were?”

“‘Course I was. I knew if I fucked up you’d never let me come back here, and I like it here.” Majima said. He leaned in till his back hit Kiryu’s chest. Kiryu wrapped his arms around his torso and held him. 

“I like having you here.” Kiryu said. “Thanks for crawling into bed with me that night.”

“Anytime.” Majima reached back and touched his cheek, then pulled away. “Can’t stay like that too long now that I know how good a view the boats get.”

 Kiryu looked out. “I don’t see any boats.”

“Good. Now turn around so I can get your back.”

 Kiryu turned, and relaxed into the touch once Majima’s hands were on him. Majima switched so quickly from annoying to sweet. The sweetness was worth the annoyance, Kiryu thought with a smile. With Majima’s hands still against his back, they talked more seriously about the wrestling match. Kiryu had learned a lot about the sport thanks to Taichi, but Majima knew a surprising amount as well. Kiryu asked him why. 

“Those real estate geezers we grappled with when I was settin’ up The Hills. None of them ever shut up about wrestling. After ya left and they pushed me in the direction of some professionals who actually knew shit about building a tower, they took me to a few semi-pro matches. This was years ago, so I forgot a lot of it, but I remember the basics. Be flashy, pull punches, break falls. All that stuff.”

 Out of the corner of his eye, Kiryu could see Majima looking out at the water, scanning for boats. Finding none, he grabbed Kiryu from behind and kissed the side of his head. “Let’s practice, Kiryu-chan.”

 He stood up and offered his hand, which Kiryu took, holding on longer than necessary. They stretched and cracked their knuckles. 

“So obviously you’re gonna have to win this fight.” Majima said

“What? Why?”

“If it was the two of us throwin’ down in the arena, there’s no way in hell I’d let you win, but this is different. Uncle Kaz can’t lose a fight in front of his kids. I ain’t that cruel.” Majima looked serious, and it made Kiryu smile. “I don’t mind them seein’ me as the bad guy in the ring, but it doesn’t work if I win. That’ll just disappoint them.”

“You say that like they won’t be rooting for you. Eri keeps talking about how you saved her life.”

 Majima blinked at him. “Ehh? When did that happen?”

“You kept her from falling on a stump Saturday night.”

“That wasn’t a life or death catch.” Majima said, running a hand through his hair. He tried to look casual, but Kiryu could tell he was pleased. “She’s a real sweet kid.”

“She’s completely different than when I first met her. She was so nervous around the other kids, and didn’t speak much. Now she can be as loud as Taichi.”

“That’s all ‘cause of you. Ya know that, right?”

“Haruka and the kids did just as much-”

“Stop. Ya keep doin’ that. Dunno why it hasn’t sunk in, but you’ve made a helluva difference in these kids’ lives.” Majima said firmly. “Maybe you’re too close to see it or somethin’, but it’s clear as day to this half-blind dog. Those kids love you, and they can’t do without ya.” He pointed his finger at Kiryu like an accusation, then put his hand on his hip and leaned forward. “And I ain’t just sayin’ that ‘cause I need ya just as much as they do.”

 Kiryu felt something twist in his heart and he had to look away. “How do you do that?” he asked, “How can you just see…”

“It’s a talent.” Majima said in a much softer tone, “You’re better with sappy stuff, but you need to hear that shit out loud too, don’t ya? There’s a reason people call ya a hero and a legend. We’re all better off because of you.”

 It was too much. Even though what Majima said was positive, it felt like he was scratching at an open wound. He didn’t think about these things for a reason. Kiryu had always needed people, but he hated coming across as needy. He’d had friends over the years, a father figure, a girl he loved from afar, a brother. Even so, growing up in the orphanage was often so lonely it hurt. Prison had been so much worse.

 A thought dawned on Kiryu that made him freeze. He’d always had to be strong, for the younger kids at Sunflower, for Nishiki, for Haruka, for everyone who ever needed his help. Despite all that, it was always hard to imagine anyone needing him as much as he needed them. Now here he was with someone he loved, someone as strong as him, who loved him back, pointing out exactly what he thought he hid so well. That what he really wanted was to know he was needed. 

“Y’okay? Kazuma?” Majima asked, taking a step closer. “What’s goin’ on under that stern look?”

“I…” Kiryu started, but what could he say? He hadn’t been able to pinpoint that feeling till just now, and that realization stunned him. “Thank you.” 

 Majima looked concerned for a second, then he stretched. “Ugh, this heat. I gotta dunk my head again before we get started.”

 Kiryu was grateful for the change of subject, but was wary of the sneaky look Majima gave him before looking towards the house. 

“Sink’s free!” Majima yelled. He got three steps towards the house before Kiryu grabbed hold of his upper arm and pulled him out to the waves. 

“Stay out of my damn sink.” Kiryu said. As much as he tried to look intimidating, he couldn’t keep the smile off his face. Majima laughed as he was dragged into the water. Kiryu kept his hand on his bicep till they were deep enough to sit down with the water up to their necks.

After taking a deep breath, Kiryu let himself submerge completely, then wrapped himself around Majima’s body, pressing his lips to the inked skin of his back. Kiryu heard Majima’s sigh from above the water. He moved his hands up to his face, then sunk down with him, goggles on. 

“Kiryu-chan!” he screamed through the water. 

 Kiryu had to surface so he could laugh. A second later Majima emerged, gasping for air. Kiryu smiled at him. “It still makes me tense up when you yell my name like that.”

“There’s plenty of other ways I could yell yer name.” Majima said. 

“Heh, I can’t take you seriously with those goggles on.”

“Wasn’t tryin’ to be serious.” Majima grumbled, brushing his hair back with his hand. He sighed again. “I hate when it’s hot in the city. There’s no way to cool down when you’re outside. No water to jump in that isn’t fuckin’ disgusting. This is heaven.

“It is now that you’re here with me.” Kiryu said. 

“Ooh! Good line, Kazzy!” 

“It’s not a line. I mean it.”

“I gotcha.” Majima said, then splashed him. “Stop laughin’ at the goggles!”

“It’s cute, I can’t help it.” Kiryu said. He swam out of reach of the splashing till he was able to stop laughing. “We should get to work.”

“Hard to concentrate when ya ain’t wearin’ a shirt, but I’ll try.” Majima said. 

“Heh, now you know how I’ve always felt around you.” 

“Kiryu-chan!” Majima said, then cackled. They walked back to shore and didn’t bother drying off this time. A silent agreement that they’d be back in the water soon enough. 

 They methodically worked through the routine they’d planned. Majima helped turn Kiryu’s practical moves into something more dramatic and entertaining. Kiryu made sure Majima’s flashy displays were controlled and kid-friendly. Sand soon covered both of them, and getting back into the water became a necessity. They once again ran into the ocean, and Kiryu won the race this time, and he felt pretty happy about that. Majima always made him feel competitive.

“Just as I was gettin’ too hot again.” Majima said, leaning back till his hair was submerged. 

“Yeah.” Kiryu said with a sigh.

“Is this how ya spend the summer? Just jumpin’ and out of the water all day?”

“Sometimes. It’s a lot louder when the kids are out of school. They’re great, but they argue a lot more when you aren’t here. It’s harder to wrangle them, so it can get stressful when there’s less time for myself. The weather can get hotter than this, and it can make everyone irritable.”

 Majima shook his head. “Kaz, your sales pitch sucks.”

“I’m talking about the future, but since I’ve basically asked you to move in, I want you to understand what you’d be getting yourself into. Summer is the hardest season here. It rains a lot and the humidity is always high.”

 Majima raised his goggles. “Is this a warning, or are ya tryna talk me out of it?”

 He looked stern, unreadable. Kiryu reached for his hand under the water. “I want you here.” he said firmly. “And if you think I’m having second thoughts after the best week of my life, you’re an idiot.”

 Majima smiled as he was talking, and when he reached the end of his sentence, the joyful laughter that erupted out of him made Kiryu laugh with him. 

“Fuck, I love that smile. I love that I get to see it so much. Let’s go in, Kaz. I want a shower, and I need my mouth on ya. A Kiryu-chan appetizer before lunch.” he said. Kiryu shook his head, which made him laugh. “Not to say ya ain’t a full meal plus dessert.”

“Let’s go.” Kiryu said, not needing to hear any more of that. They towelled off silently, and the suggestive look Majima was shooting his way made Kiryu hurry. They gathered up their things and got back into the house. 

 Majima pulled the door closed and grabbed him, smashing their lips together. Everything they were holding clattered to the floor at they clapped their arms around each other, both trying to one-up each other with the intensity of the kiss.

 The inside of the house felt stiflingly hot. He’d clean up later, for now, Kiryu needed to get into the shower as soon as possible. He pulled Majima by the arm only slightly more gently than he had when he pulled him into the ocean earlier. 

“I’ve taken plenty of cold showers after fighting with you.” Kiryu said as he turned the water on. “I’ve got a feeling this one will be different.”

“Damn.” Majima said approvingly. He grabbed the drawstring of Kiryu’s shorts and pulled it loose. “Damn.” he whispered again when the shorts hit the floor.

 Kiryu kissed his neck, salty and damp from their swim. His hands slid down Majima’s chest, moving to either side of his waist when he hit his navel. He pulled Majima’s shorts off and pulled him by his waist into the shower. 

“Shit that’s cold!” Majima yelped and turned the heat up. 

“I thought you liked the cold.” Kiryu said, turning him away from the spray till the water turned lukewarm. 

“Not that cold. It’s a shower, Kaz, we ain’t trainin’ under a waterfall.”

“It’s better now. Feel.”

 Majima held his hand under the spray. “Perfect.” he said, tilting his head back. Kiryu felt Majima’s body relax in his arms, which was a feeling he cherished. Majima sighed as Kiryu kissed his neck again, the salt was rinsed away, but he still needed soap before he went any further.

 Their conversation on the beach had gotten serious. Kiryu still had trouble expressing the importance of what Majima had said to him, but he felt he was getting good at conveying it physically. The soft noises that were already escaping Majima told him he was on the right track. 

 He rubbed a washcloth across Majima’s body, paying attention to every part as he lathered him up. Majima just watched him, and returned the favour once Kiryu was finished. 

“Are we clean enough for ya, gorgeous?” Majima purred in his ear, rubbing his soapy body against Kiryu’s. 

 Kiryu chuckled, and gripped his shoulders. “I can’t clean out your filthy thoughts, but I don’t want to.”

 Majima bit his earlobe. “‘No, you like my dirty thoughts. Ya got a few of yer own too, don’t ya, Kazzy?”

“Yeah.”

“Tell me. No, show me.”

 Kiryu smiled, then spun Majima around and kissed his neck from behind. “I can do both.” he said in his ear.

“Yeah.” Majima said. Kiryu felt the shiver that ran through his whole body. “Tell me what yer gonna do and do it.”

“Okay. I want… I want you against me.” he said, pulling Majima’s ass against him. 

“Yes.” Majima hissed.  

 Kiryu considered his options. “I want… your hands on the wall.”

 Majima’s hands hit the wall the second he finished speaking. Kiryu reached up and ran his hand over Majima’s arm. 

“Good.” Kiryu said. “Oh, I probably should’ve said I was going to touch your arm.”

 Majima chuckled, “I don’t give a damn what order ya do it, just keep touchin’ and talkin’.”

“Got it.” Kiryu said, and kissed his shoulder blade. “I want to feel these strong muscles.” His hands travelled over top of Majima’s arms, which he flexed at the touch, still soapy and slippery. “You really turn me on.”

 Majima hummed, but didn’t speak. Kiryu put a hand on his waist and pulled himself close again, sliding his body against Majima’s ass. 

“You feel so good. So firm and strong.” Kiryu said in his ear. He took his own cock in his hand and moved the tip along the lines of Majima’s tattoo. 

“Kazuma.” Majima groaned, tilting his hips so his ass was more on display. 

 Kiryu couldn’t help grabbing hold of Majima’s ass cheek. Majima moaned, and Kiryu felt himself twitch at the noise. “I want to…” Kiryu started, then decided to just do it. He  placed his cock between Majima’s ass cheeks and squeezed them together. 

“Kiryu-chan.” Majima breathed. 

 Kiryu moved his hips, enjoying the slide of his cock between Majima’s cheeks. “You’re so hot.” he whispered.

 Majima made another noise. Kiryu kissed his shoulder blade again, then wrapped both hands around his abdomen, resting his head against the back of Majima’s neck. He loved that he could feel Majima shudder. His hands were still on the wall, and warm water splashed against both of them. 

“I’m going to touch you.” Kiryu murmured. 

“Yeah, Kaz, touch me.”

 He took hold of Majima’s shaft. Majima let out a whimper that lit a fire in Kiryu. “You’re so hard.” Kiryu said. “I couldn’t sleep last night thinking about how much I wanted to touch you.

“Kaz.” Majima groaned. “You dumbass. Should’ve woken me up.”

 Being called a dumbass in this context was only a slight annoyance. Kiryu couldn’t help himself and smacked Majima’s ass, earning a surprised laugh. Kiryu smiled and took a step to the side, adjusting himself so he was still pressed against Majima’s hip. Majima’s cock felt good in his right hand, and he moved his left hand in between those brightly tattooed cheeks he loved so much. 

“Fuck, Kaz.” Majima said when Kiryu’s soapy fingers slid against his hole. “Fuckin’ hell.”

 Kiryu kissed his neck, then his jaw. Majima strained his neck so their lips met, and moaned loudly into his mouth as the kiss deepened. Kiryu’s tongue swiped against his teeth and the insides of his cheeks, exploring every inch of his mouth. He tightened his grip and Majima pulled his mouth away to gasp, eye closed. 

“You’re so sexy like this.” Kiryu breathed, gently working a finger inside him. “I want to make you cum… just like this.”

 Majima’s eye opened and watched him over his right shoulder. His gaze was intense, and his lips curved into a smug smile. Kiryu leaned in and kissed his shoulder, pressing his finger further inside as he opened his mouth and slowly bit down. 

Majima gasped and bucked forward, still watching him over his outstretched arm. Kiryu moved so the spray rinsed Majima’s arm, then licked over the bite. He tasted like soap, but Kiryu didn’t care and continued to lick along the curves of his upper arm muscles. He stroked him, using the momentum to push Majima back into his finger. Kiryu’s body was still grinding against his hip, enjoying the feeling of holding Majima in the most intimate way he could. Majima bit his lip as Kiryu found a rhythm. 

  That eye was looking right into his soul, Kiryu thought. That electric pull was so  strong, it was getting difficult to hold his gaze. As much as he liked being able to silence Majima, he wanted to hear him. 

“Does that feel good?” he asked. 

 Majima nodded and made that low, contented sound. “Amazing, Kiryu-chan.”

 Kiryu touched his forehead to Majima’s shoulder, holding him steady so he could add a second finger. Even as lathered up as they were, soap wasn’t the same as lube, and Kiryu took time and care. Probably more than he needed to, but he was still new at this, and he wanted to do it right. 

 Majima pushed back again. “You…” Kiryu said, meeting that burning intensity of his gaze once more. “You’re going to set me on fire, aren’t you?”

Majima broke eye contact to slowly look him up and down, then he leaned his face in. “Soon as ya let me go, Kiryu-chan,” Majima growled, “soon as ya let me go I’m gonna devour you.”

 Kiryu smiled, shamelessly rubbing himself against Majima’s hip. “That’s my Mad Dog.”

 Majima bucked forward again. “Ya got hold of my leash, Kiryu-chan.” he said, his voice low and breathless. “I can be good for ya, you know that now, but if ya let me loose I’m gonna go wild.”

 Kiryu nodded. “I like when you’re good, and I like you wild.”

 Majima moaned, “Fuck, Kaz. Harder.”

 Kiryu nodded and held him tighter, pulling on him more roughly, drawing more gratifying sounds from Majima’s beautiful lips. His palms were still against the wall, but his fingers kept bending like he was trying to claw through the tile. 

“You’re doing great, Goro.” Kiryu said. 

“Kiryu.. chan,” Majima growled, “you’re too.. nice to me. Too fuckin’ nice.

 Something in his tone told Kiryu he wasn’t serious. “You can handle it.” Kiryu said. He tried curling his fingers inside and Majima shuddered. Kiryu leaned his face in closer, his chin on Majima’s shoulder, “You like when I’m too nice to you.”

 Majima grit his teeth, an amused glint in his half-closed eye, and gave the smallest nod of the head.  

“I’m not the only one being nice.” Kiryu continued, kissing his arm. “You like being good for me, Goro. You like holding your arms still while I fuck you with my hands.” Kiryu said. Majima’s breathing went ragged, moving his hips along with Kiryu’s hands. 

“Kazuma.” The wild desperation in his voice made Kiryu shudder right along with Majima. “Ya make me so fuckin’ crazy. The second ya let me go I’m gonna choke myself on that perfect cock of yours.”

 Kiryu shivered. Majima’s words had such an effect on him. He didn’t know if what he was saying to Majima were the right words, but it didn’t seem to matter. He could feel how much Majima was enjoying what he was doing. 

“I’m so close.” Majima said, straining his neck to kiss him again, moaning into his mouth with that same delicious, sensual desperation. He pressed his forehead against Kiryu’s. “My legs are gonna give out.”

“I won’t let you fall.” Kiryu said, “Let go for me, Goro, I’ve got you.”

 Majima made a strangled noise, shaking against his hands, thrusting forward faster and faster till it was clear he was right on the edge. “Yes.” he hissed. “Kaz I’m coming, fuck, fuck!”

 Majima lurched forward. Kiryu stepped in and trapped him between the wall and his body as he withdrew his fingers and grabbed hold. Majima threw his hands around his neck, still shuddering. Kiryu kept his right hand around Majima’s shaft, still pulsing with the effects of his orgasm. “I’ve got you.” Kiryu repeated in his ear, as Majima’s hands tightened around him. 

“You got me.” Majima whispered back. “Ya got me real good.”

 Kiryu smiled, tilting his head back under the lukewarm spray. “I need to finish cleaning you up.” he said. He took the washcloth and gently cleaned his dazed partner, then rinsed them both off. Majima kept his head resting against Kiryu’s shoulder the whole time, sighing contentedly. 

 After all his talk, it was funny how cuddly Majima was being. Kiryu was just about to point that out when he was pushed against the shower wall. Majima’s hand hit the wall next to his head, and he leaned in and kissed him. When he pulled away, that wild look was back. 

“Been thinkin’,” Majima started, “I remember this guy ‘bout a week ago, who got all flustered and nervous about gettin’ his dick sucked.”

 Kiryu closed his eyes. Majima chuckled and moved his hands down Kiryu’s collarbone to his chest, running his fingers over his nipples, then pinching them both. Kiryu made a noise, feeling somewhere between annoyance and arousal. 

“I think I’m gonna make ya ask for it.” Majima said with a wicked grin. 

“Goro?” Kiryu asked. 

“Hmm?”

“Suck my cock.” Kiryu said firmly. 

 Majima let out a “Hah!” and kissed him. He then lowered himself to his knees. “I thought it would be tougher than that.”

“Before, it would’ve been, but after everything we’ve done this week, I know we both want this.” Kiryu said, “I really want this.” 

“I’m gonna give it to ya.” Majima said. He grabbed Kiryu’s thighs and brought his face close, his cheek nuzzling against him. He mouthed at his balls, then took them in one hand while his other grabbed the base of Kiryu’s erection, fully hard despite not having been touched yet. “Ooh, you really want this, huh?”

 Kiryu shut his eyes again. “Yes.” he sighed as Majima’s tongue finally touched him. Majima didn’t waste any time. Kiryu felt his hot mouth around him, forcing him to open his eyes and stare down. Majima was looking up at him, and that alone would have made him moan, but then he started bobbing his head, and it felt so good that Kiryu couldn’t help the noises that escaped him. He could feel the back of Majima’s throat and was surprised he wasn’t choking. 

“You’re so good at this.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima growled in response. Kiryu could feel the vibrations and it was difficult not to jerk forward. Majima’s hands guided his legs a little farther apart so he could reach his ass. 

“I’ll be gentle.” Majima said, and licked the underside of his cock from base to tip. 

“That’s not what you said before.”

Majima looked up quickly and raised an eyebrow. “Disappointed?”

“You’ve never disappointed me when it comes to this.”

 Majima smiled warmly. He kept eye contact with Kiryu as his fingers touched his hole. “Don’t wanna go too wild in here and break yer shower. Or you.”

“I’m not that breakable.”

 Majima pumped Kiryu’s shaft right next to his face, moving it against the softness of his lips. “No, but yer about as tight as it gets.” 

 Majima’s mouth was on him again before Kiryu could ask if that was a compliment or not. He should feel grateful that Majima of all people was being so considerate of his inexperience, but his brain wasn’t working at full speed. Those beautiful lips were around him, and there was no discomfort when Majima’s finger slid inside of him. 

  Majima picked up speed, his free hand touching every part of Kiryu he could reach before returning to grip the base of his erection. Kiryu rested his hand on Majima’s head, as Majima’s finger pressed deeper inside him, brushing against that spot that intensified everything he was already feeling. He grunted and Majima made a noise that urged him on. 

 Kiryu wondered if he should try to last longer. Majima didn’t seem concerned with that, but still, did this just show more of his inexperience? He felt like an overeager teen. Did that matter? Then again, Majima was on his knees, and that wasn’t comfortable, plus they’d already wasted so much water…

“Kiryu?”

 Out of all the versions of his name Majima had been using, that made Kiryu snap to attention the quickest. “What’s wrong?” he asked. 

“Nothin’ down here. Are ya thinkin’ too much again?” Majima asked. “You went all stoic on me.”

“I just got worried that this was happening too fast.”

 Majima rolled his eye, then bared his teeth. “Shut up and cum down my throat already.

 Kiryu took a deep breath and relaxed as Majima’s hands started moving again. “Heh, why don’t you make me. It won’t take long if you keep, ah.. doing what you’re doing.”

 Majima let loose a giddy laugh, then took him in his mouth. The wildness he’d promised was now in full effect, and his tongue was so fast and skilled that it emptied Kiryu’s brain of any remaining thoughts. Soon he had Kiryu panting, clenched fists at his side, head back and pressed against the shower wall. Majima growled again.

 Kiryu grit his teeth to stay quiet, but it didn’t work well. He came loudly, and Majima hummed his approval. Staring up at him with that evil glint in his eye, Majima opened his mouth to show how full it was of his own seed. Kiryu gasped at the vulgar display. Majima swallowed, then laughed. The second he let go, Kiryu grabbed his shoulders and hauled him to his feet, roughly kissing him. Majima responded loudly, grabbing his waist and leaning his weight against him. Kiryu had to pull away before long, still trying to catch his breath. They smiled at each other, and with a shaky hand, Kiryu held Majima’s cheek. 

“Nobody’s ever made me feel this way. And I’m not just talking about the sex. You, heh..” Kiryu laughed breathlessly, “I can’t even talk right now.”

 Majima leaned his face into Kiryu’s hand and closed his eye. “I know what ya mean, Kaz-chan.” 

 Kiryu brought their foreheads together. The water hitting his shoulder was much cooler now. Majima leaned his face into the spray. 

“Not too cold for you?” Kiryu asked as Majima wiped his eyes. 

“Not after that. And I just remembered how fuckin’ hot it’s gonna be when we get outta here.”

 They dried off and went to the bedroom. Kiryu turned on the small fan he kept in the room and Majima pulled him down to the futon, lying shoulder to shoulder on their backs wearing only underwear. They sighed nearly at the same time, which made them both chuckle. 

 Majima grabbed his hand. “I’m wiped.”

“Yeah.” Kiryu said. He turned on his side. “I want to ask you something.”

 Majima looked at him and poked his chin. 

 Kiryu assumed that was a yes. “Are you.. holding back with me?”

“What’dya mean?” Majima said. Another poke to the face. 

 Kiryu fought down his embarrassment. It was getting easier to do that. “You keep talking about easing me into things, and being gentle, and I appreciate that. But-”

 Majima put a finger to his lips. “If ya think I’m havin’ anything less than the time of my life, then you’re crazy. And didn’t ya say about the same thing to me earlier? What happened, Kaz? Did I hit some nerve, ‘cause I wasn’t tryin’ to.”

“No. You haven’t done anything wrong, and this isn’t some insecurity, I just want you to know that if there are other things that you usually do, or that you want to do, then don’t think you can’t ask me.”

 Majima raised his eyebrows. It took a moment before he answered. “You’re… the perfect man.”

“Heh, no I’m not.” Kiryu said, but he couldn’t help smiling. 

“Yes, ya are. Don’t argue with me.” Majima said, and took hold of his neck. “That’s a helluva thing to say, but don’t worry about it. I ain’t holding’ back. There’s so much I wanna do with you, and we’ve been coverin’ a lotta bases. I’m not missin’ out on anything.”

 Kiryu nodded. “Okay, good.”

“Now, there is stuff I like that we haven’t explored yet. I don’t mind mixin’ a little pain with pleasure sometimes, but not always. I dunno. I’m still figurin’ all this shit out too. It’s been what, nine or ten days since we first got our hands on each other? That makes this my…” he looked up, thinking, “forth, no, third longest relationship.”

“Yeah. That’s about the same for me.” Kiryu said. “Stop that.” he added when he was poked in the face again. 

 Majima smiled. “Been thinkin’ bout all those sex toys in my closet since I remembered they were in there. We got lots of stuff to try, but I ain’t nothin’ but thrilled about what we’re doin’ now. And if this is about the shower, the goal is to have a good time, not wreck ya so ya can’t have any fun the next day.”

 Kiryu leaned down and kissed him, feeling at peace since that was clarified. “I love you.” he said. He caught Majima’s hand before he could poke him again and pressed it down to the futon. “And I told you to stop that.” 

“Those eyes again.” Majima said, shutting his own. “Makes me want to get ya to call headquarters for me.”

“What?”

 Majima opened his eyes and smiled up at him. “Just call ‘em up and say I got swept out by the waves and ya never saw me again, or better yet, that a shark got me. That way I’ll never have to go back.”

 Kiryu squeezed his hand. “That seems pretty drastic.”

“Nah, just shed a tear or two at my funeral, will ya? And make sure everybody gets good ‘n drunk afterwards.”

“The last thing I want to think about is your funeral.”

 Majima wrenched his hand away and pushed Kiryu on his back. “Fine, but one last thing. Make sure ya fight at least six guys. I don’t want a boring funeral, and the only one I ever went to that didn’t make me wanna fall asleep was the one you punched your way through.”

 Kiryu scowled. “I’m glad you have good memories of that day because I don’t.”

 Majima straddled Kiryu’s waist as he spoke, then reached for his face with both hands. “Hold still,” Majima said when he moved his head away, “I wanna see if I can un-furrow that brow.”

“No more poking me.” Kiryu said firmly. 

“Okay, fine. It’s too hot for a second round anyway.” Majima said. 

BKiryu closed his eyes so he wouldn’t have to look at Majima’s smug expression, even though he was fighting a smile. He felt Majima’s thumbs smooth over his eyebrows, then across his cheeks to his jaw, relieving the tension below his ears and down his neck. “Where did you learn how to massage so well?”

“I dunno. Self taught, I guess. ‘S a good thing ya like it ‘cause I’m makin’ this up as I go.” Majima said. Kiryu’s eyes were still closed but he could feel Majima’s face drawing closer to his. Despite the calming motions of his hands, that electric hum was ever-present. 

 He felt breath before Majima kissed his cheek, then his lips, gentle and caring. Kiryu opened his eyes to see that smug smile he knew would still be there, “I love you. I’ve never been so in love with anybody.”

 The smugness evaporated, and Kiryu sat up and kissed him before it came back, holding Majima’s waist so he wouldn’t fall out of his lap. Majima finally pulled back, breathless. He looked flushed, already sweating again. “I love ya, Kaz, but if I stay here too long I really am gonna melt. Let’s eat something.”

 Kiryu nodded, and after another kiss, they rose to their feet and started searching for clothes.

Chapter 33: The Man in the Music Video

 Still exhausted from the morning, Kiryu and Majima slowly got up, stretched, and put shorts on. Kiryu took a tee shirt with him without putting it on, and stepped outside to refill Mame’s water dish, while Majima went in search of the shirt he’d taken off in the kitchen earlier. 

 After unintentionally interrupting the dog’s nap, Kiryu went through all the rooms, pulling open doors and windows so a breeze ran through the house. After downing a large glass of water each, they sat down to eat the lunch they’d made together. 

“I hate to disappoint lil’ Shiro, but it might be too hot for a big pasta dinner tonight.” Majima said. 

“He’ll understand.” Kiryu said, opening the newspaper to the weather report. “It’s supposed to cool down in a couple of days.”

“Hope so. Don’t think I can wear a wrestling mask if it’s this hot on Sunday.”

“Yeah.” Kiryu agreed. They discussed the match again. Kiryu was pleased with how serious Majima was about it. 

“When should we tell the kids?” Majima asked. “Is it a surprise? You said they could help set up the ring.”

“Today or tomorrow. We should let Taichi in on some of the moves we’re doing ahead of time. He’d like that.”

“Sure, yeah. See if he’s got any suggestions. We got a solid plan, so if we do a little more polishing tomorrow we’ll be set. Then some more swimming? Stab a few tuna? And fit in some more foolin’ around before the kids get home.”

“A great plan. The kids will probably want to swim on the weekend. You’ll probably get asked to throw them in the water again.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima chuckled. “Ya gotta help me this time around. Some of them are big, and I can’t afford to wrench my shoulder before Sunday. We gotta be ready for the big show.”

 Kiryu had finished eating, and put his arm around Majima’s bare shoulders. “Deal.”

 Majima leaned in for a moment. “You look so good. If it was a little cooler and I felt a little less tired, I’d be all over ya.”

“Yeah, same to you.” Kiryu said, kissing the top of his head. “ It’s too hot for anything right now.”

 They cleaned up, including everything they’d dropped on the floor earlier that day, then went back to the dining room and turned on the TV. Kiryu positioned the fan, then laid down on his side with some pillows. Majima stretched out in front of him, with just enough space between them that they didn’t overheat. Kiryu couldn’t help touching his back with his fingertips, idly tracing the designs as Majima ran his foot back along Kiryu’s leg. 

 After flipping through channels, they settled on a rerun of some variety show from Osaka. Majima sounded half-asleep, but still mumbled correct answers to the trivia portion of the show, swearing at the poor contestants when they got a question wrong. 

 When the show ended, Majima yawned loudly. “Don’t fall asleep, Kaz.”

“I won’t. I don’t like sleeping during the day. It keeps me up at night.”

“Then I won’t either. Don’t let me forget, tonight we gotta make sure the ice cube tray is full for tomorrow.” Majima said, stretching his long limbs.

“For drinks?”

 Majima turned his head and leered at him. “Nope.”

“Oh, heh, okay. Another first, I guess.” Kiryu said, after Majima offered no follow up. Despite the heat, Kiryu couldn’t help pulling him back into a hug. 

“You’re so damn cute when ya get flustered. It’s nothin’ too crazy, just a fun way to cool down.” Majima said, clinging to him when he tried to let go. 

“Sounds great.” Kiryu replied, and kissed his shoulder. “Come on. I want a smoke. It might wake us up.”

“Alright.” Majima said, getting to his feet. “Want me to drag ya to the door?”

“I can handle standing up.” Kiryu said and slowly rose. He looked at Majima, who put on his blue short-sleeved shirt but kept it unbuttoned. He yawned again, and Kiryu felt a swell of affection. “I don’t know how to say this, but these moments of just… being with you, mean a lot to me.”

 Majima nodded. “Yeah.” he said quietly, looking away as he fiddled with his shirt. “I’m repeatin’ myself, but I never thought I’d get to have somethin’ like this. Especially not with you.” he looked back over to Kiryu and smiled. “And ‘specially not after bein’ kind of a jackass to ya today.”

 Kiryu stepped forward and after making sure they couldn’t be seen through the nearby window, touched Majima’s chin and kissed him. “You’re so much more than just a jackass.”

 Majima chuckled and slapped his arm. “Blunt as always. Just the way I like ya.” 

 Kiryu put his tee shirt on and sat down out on the front step. Majima sat next to him, only just out of reach, but he felt too far away. Despite the heat, Kiryu still craved that closeness. 

“Ya know ya don’t have to do that anymore, right?” Majima said as Kiryu leaned in to light his cigarette. 

“I know, but like it, Nii-san.” Kiryu said, then lit his own. 

“Ya haven’t been callin’ me that much, lately.” Majima said, blowing smoke away from Kiryu. 

“I guess not. I don’t know that it fits anymore. It’s not… enough.” 

“You’re too damn sweet.” Majima said with a laugh. He tapped his remaining cigarettes. “I ain’t burnin’ through packs as fast as usual. Didn’t notice till yesterday, when I had more left than I thought.”

 Kiryu nodded. “I don’t smoke as much as I used to. Not since I’ve been in Okinawa anyway. Less stress, I think.” 

“Good on ya. Even in this muggy heat the air feels better out here. Weird that I didn’t notice, or maybe it’s like ya said, I’m less stressed.”

 They smoked in happy silence till Majima started humming. 

“That’s a Miracle Johnson song, right?” Kiryu asked. 

“What is?” 

“The song you were humming.”

“Was I humming?” Majima asked, completely sincerely. “Guess so.”

“I’m pretty sure that’s the song I was in the video for.” Kiryu said, looking out at the water.

 Majima looked confused. “What video?”

“The music video for Chiller, the one with all the zombies. I was in it.”

“You were in the Chiller video.” Majima said flatly, narrowing his eye, “The music video that changed music videos forever? That video?” 

“Yeah.” 

“Bullshit!”

Kiryu shrugged and looked back at Majima. “You don’t have to believe it, but it’s true.”

 Majima didn’t look any less sceptical.”I woulda known about that! Somebody woulda told me.” 

 Kiryu just stared at him as Majima closely examined his face. He pursed his lips before he continued. “Say I did believe it. What were ya, one of the zombies?”

“No. I fought off the zombies.”

“It’s been years since I saw it, but I’m pretty sure Miracle fought the zombies.”

“They filmed that part after I was done. It was filmed all over Tokyo, but my scene was shot on Tenkaichi street.” Kiryu said. “He danced down the street, zombie stuntmen tried to attack him, but I held them off.”

 Majima gave him another long look. “If you are lying, it’s the best you’ve ever been at it.”

 Kiryu frowned. “I wish I could show you. They sent me a tape of it, but I lost that when my apartment… well, it’s gone now.”

“If I was in that video I’d’ve told everyone I knew and never shut up about it.”

“Well…” Kiryu started, he hadn’t expected to talk about this part of the story. “I showed Kazama-san, but he didn’t like the music, and said I shouldn’t brag about doing something so frivolous. Then I showed Nishiki, and he got mad about it. I don’t think I ever brought it up to anyone after that.”

 Majima nodded and ground his cigarette into the ashtray. “Ya really aren’t lyin’. Okay, that brings up a bunch of questions, but I think it’s cooler inside now, so let’s get back in front of that big-ass fan.”

 Once seated at the dining table with glasses of ice water, Kiryu told the story from start to finish. Meeting Stephen Spinning, the famous director, and the zombies, who, between takes, told him interesting stories about stunt work. He described as much of what Miracle said as he could remember. He also told the story of their dance battle when Miracle came back to town a few weeks later.

“This was way back before he got all weird, right? That video came out in what, ‘89?”

“Yeah, we shot it in December of ‘88.” Kiryu replied. 

“…ah.”

“Yeah.”

 Majima was silent for a moment, then he smiled. “Busy time for both of us, huh?”

 Kiryu nodded. “I think the people I told were angry that I spent a whole night doing something like that while I was fighting with the Dojima family. The whole clan was looking for me, but everyone was leaving the film sets alone. It was a good idea in the moment.”

“I get it. It was a rough fuckin’ time, but there’s a chance I was doin’ a dance battle on a bridge in Sotenbori while you were doin’ that.”

 Kiryu sighed. Somehow he knew Majima would understand. 

“Didja ever wish you’d taken that offer? To be his bodyguard? Ya could’ve seen the world, met Hollywood celebrities, beat up hordes of rabid fans.” Majima said. He moved his fingers over the condensation on the outside of his glass, then touched Kiryu’s arm. The cold felt nice, as did the firm touch of his hand.

“I never would’ve left everything behind like that, but yeah, I thought about it. I wouldn’t have met you though.”

 Majima gripped his arm tightly. “Perish the thought, Kiryu-chan!”

 They kept talking at the table, mostly about music from the late 80s, till the kids got home. Kiryu and Izumi handed out water, and Mitsuo brought in another fan. The heat made the kids either quiet or grumpy, but they agreed to sit down and do their homework while it was too hot to play outside. 

 A minute after they all sat down, Majima visibly tensed. Kiryu looked over just as he slapped a hand over his still uncovered, scarred eyelid. He shoved his other hand in his pocket and pulled out his eyepatch. Without moving his head, his eye scanned the room. None of the kids were even looking at him, and Kiryu tried to smile encouragingly when Majima caught him staring. He slowly took his hand away and tied the patch around his wrist. Although his expression wasn’t the easiest to read, Kiryu thought he saw the hint of a smile.

 Once the homework was mostly finished, Kiryu surveyed the room. Majima was talking to Shiro about their updated dinner plans, while Haruka and Riona were helping Eri finish a school project. Kiryu joined Koji and Ayako at their old PC in the corner. He asked them how hard it was to look up music videos on the internet, and was surprised at how quickly they found the one he was looking for. 

“There are so many music videos in really high quality now.” Ayako said. “Look, see? This one’s in 720p.”

 Kiryu nodded, even though that number didn’t mean anything to him. When the music started, Majima’s head whipped around and he came to watch with them. “Okay,” Kiryu said, “it’s not for another minute, but watch for a white suit whenever you see Miracle do that dance walk down the street. Can we make this full screen?”

 Kiryu was concentrating on the video, so when he paused it and said “There, that’s me.”, pointing to himself in the background of the shot, he was surprised to find himself surrounded by the entire household. 

“That’s really you, Uncle Kaz?” Taichi asked. “My parents used to listen to this song!”

“Mine too!” Mitsuo said. 

“How did you get to be in a music video?” Koji asked. 

“I was at the right place at the right time. The zombies were really nice people.”

 Kiryu, feeling pretty good about himself, unpaused the video. The kids laughed as they watched him kick a zombie. A few seconds later Kiryu paused again. “You can’t see me in this shot but that’s my arm.”

 The kids all chattered to each other in excitement, and Kiryu was pleased. He hadn’t felt this excited about the video since his disappointing attempt at showing off the tape he received twenty years ago. This was the reception he was hoping for at the time. He unpaused the video.

“There he is again!” Eri shouted, half a minute later. Ayako paused on a full view of Kiryu, staring down a zombie. 

“You look so young.” Haruka said. 

“And that suit.” Majima snickered. 

 Kiryu looked back at him. “I was twenty, and I liked that suit.”

“Nobody’s makin’ fun. Ain’t that right, kiddos?”

 The kids shook their heads and Kiryu played the video again. The young Kiryu on screen grabbed the zombie by the shirt and pants, swung him in a circle, and sent him flying off screen. 

“I’ve seen that move before.” Majima said. They were planning on doing something similar in the ring.

“Me too.” Haruka said. 

“But I’m guessin’ he never used it on you.” Majima replied, making Haruka laugh.

“Have you been in a fight with Uncle Kaz, Majima-san?” Izumi asked. 

 Majima looked at Kiryu. “Yeah, but don’t worry, we’re friends now.”

“We were friends then.” Kiryu said. He made a decision and hit pause once more. The kids may as well know about their match. “We might fight again sometime soon.”

 Majima nodded. “Yep. I saw that ring ya got behind the house. What d’ya say we set it up on Sunday?”

 Taichi was buzzing, eyes wide. “For wrestling?” 

“Hmm, not sure. Better ask Uncle Kaz.” Majima said, looking amused. All the kids were watching him closely. There was no pause between the end of that sentence, and Taichi loudly asking Kiryu the same question. 

“Yes, for wrestling.” Kiryu said. He had to wait a minute before saying more because Taichi started jumping up and down. Eri held out her hands and the two of them jumped together. The other kids were also excitedly talking and laughing, but none as loud as Majima.

“Hang on, hang on. What’s Dragon Mask?” he asked. 

“That’s Uncle Kaz’s wrestling name.” Eri said. 

 Majima raised an eyebrow at Kiryu. “Right to the point.” 

“Izumi picked it out.” Kiryu said quickly, so Majima wouldn’t say anything insulting. The kids took turns describing the last match Dragon Mask had fought. It was bittersweet, because his last opponent had been Rikiya, and the kids had all liked him so much. Majima was patient with their overlapping stories, and only interrupted them when they stood between him and the fan. 

 Once the story was done, Majima motioned to Kiryu. “Okay. Back to the music video, or did we see it all?”

 Kiryu smiled. “There should be one or two more shots at the end.”

 The kids gathered around the monitor again. Despite the change in topic, they were no less enthusiastic about the video. “I see him!” Izumi said, “Get the zombie, Uncle Kaz!”

 When the video ended, Kiryu’s audience applauded. He nodded at them, but didn’t know what to say.

 The crowd of kids dispersed, and Kiryu let the kids have the computer back. He went to the kitchen to get more water. Haruka followed. 

“Why didn’t you tell me you were in that video? We’ve listened to a lot of old music together.”

“The music isn’t that old, is it?” Kiryu asked.

 Haruka smiled. “Older than me.”

“I just forgot. I hadn’t thought about it in a long time, and I hadn’t heard that song for years before Goro- I mean Majima-san started humming it today.”

“Goro?” Haruka asked with a smile. 

“Uh… y-yeah. How was school?”

 Haruka’s smile faded. “School was okay. Nozomi was nervous about going to see a movie with boys, then Misaki laughed at her and said it wasn’t like any of us are trying to date them. But Misaki didn’t know that Nozomi has a crush on Kenta, and when Nozomi got really embarrassed, Misaki started teasing her.”

 Kiryu put a hand on Haruka’s shoulder. He’d heard these names before but hadn’t met any of them except Nozomi, the first friend Haruka had made after they’d moved. 

 Haruka sighed. “I told Misaki to leave her alone, and she walked away, but now Nozomi says she might stay home Saturday, and I don’t know if I want to go if she’s not there.”

“You didn’t tell me there would be boys there.” Kiryu said. 

“Yes I did. There’s two boys and four girls, and me. But it’s not a date or anything, even if that was what Nozomi wanted, but it’s not. She’s not even allowed to date till she’s seventeen.”

 Kiryu nodded. Maybe Haruka had told him about the boys being there. She had no reason to lie, and it bothered him that he might not have been paying enough attention. 

“Have you told Nozomi how much this matters to you?”

 Haruka shook her head. “No. It’s just a movie.”

“Still...” Kiryu said, considering his words carefully. It was the first movie she’d seen with a group this big, without him or the other Morning Glory kids with her. Even though he’d rather she not go to the movies with boys for at least another decade or two, he wasn’t about to stand in the way of her being with friends. “You should tell Nozomi how much you want to go. I’m proud that you spoke up on her behalf, but don’t forget to do the same for yourself. It could help her get over her embarrassment if she knows that going is important to you.”

 Haruka looked unsure, but she nodded. “Thanks, Uncle Kaz. I’ll talk to her tomorrow.”

 Kiryu hoped that was the right answer. He couldn’t always relate to Haruka’s teenage problems, but he did his best. “It’s getting loud in there.” he said, motioning to the other room, “We should probably calm everyone down before they get out of hand.”

“Okay. You’re not in any other music videos, are you?”

“No,” Kiryu said, “but I once helped  produce a commercial, and I had a few lines in a samurai movie.”

 He left the room, but not before he saw Haruka’s eyes go wide. She followed him, asking questions loudly so the others would hear. He’d never assumed the kids would want to hear his old stories, but apparently he was wrong. The kids and Majima all gathered round the table again to hear a couple more tales of moments when Kiryu happened to be in the right place at the right time.

Notes:

Let’s say Miracle Johnson got really weird over the years, but not in a horrible creepy way. He’s reclusive, but still alive in 2010. He’s a successful producer as well as a singer, and he’ll never reveal whether or not he wrote the Sonic 3 soundtrack.

Chapter 34: Sandcastles On The Beach, Whispers In The Dark

 After Shiro and Majima made a simple dinner that didn’t heat up the house too much, they all went outside. The wind had picked up and it was finally a bit cooler. 

 Taichi sat down on the beach next to Kiryu, who was watching the kids play in front of the setting sun. The boy had calmed down from earlier, but still asked a series of rapid-fire wrestling questions. 

“I don’t want to give all of it away,” Kiryu said, after answering the basic questions, “but Majima-san and I were talking today about how we’d like your help on Saturday to figure out a couple of moves.”

“Really, Uncle Kaz? I promise won’t interrupt the fight like the last time, but I’ll do anything to help! Is Majima-san gonna do some flips? ‘Cause there’s this old wrestler who used to flip upside down like this.”

 Taichi stood and attempted a cartwheel, but fell into the sand with a loud oof. Before Kiryu could get up to help him, Taichi sat back down and used his fingers to describe a complicated maneuver that looked nearly impossible. He was talking faster and faster, and after the second time he jumped up to attempt a move, Kiryu had a hard time keeping a straight face. 

 Taichi had grown a lot in the last year. The kids had all been devastated about losing the house, but afterwards, they’d banded together, stronger than ever. Taichi had taken on a lot of responsibility when Kiryu was recovering from his stab wound, and while wrestling was still what filled most of his thoughts, he was more helpful, and a much better listener. 

“What do you think, Uncle Kaz?” he asked.

 While Kiryu was thinking about how proud he was of Taichi, he’d stopped paying attention to what the boy was saying. “Uh, yeah. We’ll give it a try on Saturday, but no promises. Remember, we aren’t professionals.”

 Taichi smiled and jumped up again. “Okay. I’m going to go tell Mitsuo!”

 He ran off, and Kiryu laughed to himself. Most of the kids were making sandcastles, and Kiryu went to inspect them. After that he walked up to the stumps by the fire pit, where Riona, Ayako, and Haruka were looking through a teen fashion magazines alongside Majima. 

 They all looked locked in a serious discussion, but Majima waved at Kiryu when he noticed he was being watched. The eyepatch was still tied around his wrist, and Kiryu realized this was the longest amount of time Majima had been without it. It made him happy that he trusted not only Kiryu, but the kids to see him this way. 

“I’m gettin’ up to date with makeup trends.” Majima said, holding up the magazine. He passed it to Haruka who held it up so Kiryu could see. He sat down next to her for a better view.

“We’re thinking something like this,” Haruka said, pointing at one photo. She flipped to another page, “or this one but without the red lipstick.”

 Aside from the lipstick, Kiryu didn’t notice any difference between the two looks, but they looked natural, and that was good enough for him. “Sure.” he said. 

 Haruka looked happy, and Kiryu listened as the girls and Majima looked through the rest of the magazine. Afterwards all the kids returned to the beach to play one of their favourite games, Kaiju Attack. The rules were simply to roar and stomp on the sandcastles they’d made specifically for this purpose. Majima cackled and joined in. Kiryu and Haruka watched from a little ways away. 

“Do you know when he’ll be visiting again?” Haruka asked. 

“When he can, but we don’t know when that is yet. Probably not for a while.” Kiryu replied. “I was going to wait to ask to you about this, but the two of us have talked about me maybe flying out to see him in the summer. Probably in August.” 

“To… Kamurocho?” Haruka asked. She sounded hesitant.

“Yeah, but only for a few days, if you and Ayako are okay to babysit. I’d make sure the neighbours and the Ryudo family check in with you.”

 Haruka frowned, which made Kiryu uneasy. “What about the Tojo clan?”

“I wouldn’t be going for work. I don’t even know if I’d tell any of them I was there. It would just be… for a visit.” 

 Kiryu wanted to be open with her, but she didn’t need to know any more than that. Haruka didn’t look pleased. “But they always make you help, and you always get hurt. You almost died last year, and the time before that you were shot, and when we were there in April I saw all the bruises you had.”

 As much as Kiryu wanted to argue, she did have a point. “If me getting hurt is what you’re worried about, then it’ll be fine. I promise I’ll be careful, and I won’t be alone.”

 Kiryu caught Majima’s eye, and he ran over. The eyepatch was back on, which was probably good because he was covered in sand. He’d been grinning, but stopped when he saw Haruka. 

“That’s a serious face, Haruka-chan.”

“If Uncle Kaz goes to Kamurocho, you’ll make sure he doesn’t get hurt, right?” 

“Haruka.” Kiryu said. He could excuse her boldness because she was upset. Majima looked surprised but not angry. He stepped forward and put a hand on her shoulder.

“If anyone even looks at him funny, I’ll take ‘em down.”

 Kiryu frowned, but Haruka looked satisfied with that answer. “Okay,” she said, looking back up at Kiryu, “then I’m happy to babysit when you visit Uncle Majima in the summer.”

 Majima gently shook her shoulder. “Thanks, kiddo.”

 Once Kiryu and Majima said goodnight to the kids together, Kiryu breathed a long sigh. It had finally cooled down enough to feel comfortable, but the heat always made him feel tired.

In the dark, Kiryu positioned the fan, then laid down with Majima on their sides, facing each other. He brushed Majima’s hair away from from his face and kissed just under his left eyelid. In the dim blue light, he could see Majima smile.

“I’ve been thinkin’,” Majima said, “it’s probably for the best that I didn’t know ‘bout that music video.”

 Kiryu took his hand. “Why?”

“‘Cause I probably would gotten it to play on every video screen in Kamurocho as you went by, or had my boys learn the routine when we attacked ya as zombies. Woulda made for a hell of a grande finale.”

 Kiryu chuckled and kissed Majima’s knuckles. “That would’ve been pretty annoying.”

“But ya can’t say it wouldn’t have got yer attention.”

“I’m sure it would have been impressive with the way you can dance.” Kiryu said. Majima chuckled but let him continue. “I liked watching the video today, I can’t believe the kids cared that much about it.”

“It wasn’t the video or the song we cared about. It was that cute guy in that huge white suit.” Majima said with a laugh. 

“I’m not going to defend my fashion choices from twenty years ago.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima laughed again and squeezed his hand. “I’m lookin’ forward to the next few days. Haruka-chan looked kinda nervous when we were talkin’ about Saturday though. Wasn’t sure what that was about.”

 Kiryu explained the conversation he’d had with her that afternoon. He kept Majima’s hands between his own the whole time. It was still too hot to be too close, but he needed that touch. Once he finished taking he kissed Majima’s fingertips one by one.

“That’s some good advice ya gave, about how she shouldn’t forget about herself when she’s lookin’ after others.”

“Thanks.”

“She ain’t the only one who needs to remember that, ya know.” Majima said with another squeeze of his hand. 

 Kiryu frowned. “I.. hmm.” 

“These kids are learnin’ from yer example, which is a damn good thing, except when it comes to this one little quirk of yers. So after I go on Tuesday, ya gotta make sure you’re lookin’ after yourself as much as the kids, alright?”

 Kiryu hesitated. He didn’t know how to feel about that. 

 Majima pulled their intertwined hands over to his own mouth. “Gonna need to hear a ‘yes’ from ya, Kazuma.” he said, lips moving against the Kiryu’s fingers. When Kiryu didn’t answer right away, Majima started gnawing on his hand. 

“Okay, yes.” Kiryu said with a chuckle. “So long as you’ll be careful once you’re back at work.”

 Majima’s lips touched his hand again. “Careful ain’t my style, Kiryu-chan, but I’ll give it a shot... for you.”

“Good.” Kiryu leaned forward and kissed his lips, still gripping his hand. “I’ll sleep better on my own knowing that.”

“Don’t wanna think about that yet.” Majima huffed. 

“Yeah, I’d rather think about the eight hours of alone time I get to spend with you tomorrow.” 

“Damn, Kiryu-chan. Don’t know if I can go a full eight hours, but for you...”

“Heh, you said quality over quantity, remember?”

“I remember sayin’ there was room for both.” Majima said, his voice kept getting lower, quieter. The tone of his voice gave Kiryu shivers in a way he didn’t expect. “I ain’t as concerned with practicin’ in the midday heat tomorrow now that the cat’s outta the bag about Sunday.”

“Yeah.” Kiryu whispered, rubbing his thumb over the back of Majima’s hand. “If we fight during the day tomorrow, it’ll be just for us.”

 Majima sighed and responded I’m an equally hushed tone. “That’s the most romantic thing you’ve ever said to me.”

“I think I can do better than that.” Kiryu said.

“Ya don’t have to, but you should kiss me again.”

 Kiryu let go of his hand and touched his cheek. Majima made that low, contented noise as their tongues gently touched together, a soft caress that conveyed all the affection he was feeling. “Goro.” he whispered, unable to keep his hands away from Majima’s hair. Kiryu’s eyelids were so heavy, but he felt so blissfully content that he was fighting to stay awake.

“Goodnight, Kaz.” Majima whispered, once the kiss was finally broken. 

“Goodnight.”

 They stayed like that for some time, close and comfortable, before Kiryu finally gave in and let sleep take him.

Chapter 35: Kiryu On Ice

 Friday morning was hot, but not as humid as the day before. The wind was blowing again, and it was a relief to be able to air out the house. The kids were excited that it was Friday, and Majima was less frenzied than he was the previous morning. 

“Go, go,” Majima said as the kids were heading out, “learn a bunch of stuff and enjoy the air conditioning. I’ll see ya soon.”

“You’re so good with them.” Kiryu said once they’d all walked off. 

Majima shrugged. “Don’t think I would’ve been, even a year ago. You’ve been rubbin’ off on me. Turning me into a real goody-goody.”

“I’m not apologizing for that.” Kiryu said, pulling him back into the house by his arm. As soon as they were out of sight of the road, Kiryu held his waist and pulled their bodies together. “And I like rubbing off on you.”

“Kiryu-chan!” Majima said with a delighted laugh. “Good one. Looks like the rubbin’ goes both ways.”

“Heh. Just like us.”

 Majima’s eye went wide, before he threw his head back and laughed again. He grabbed Kiryu’s face with both hands and peered closely at him. “Look at that. No hesitation, and ya ain’t even blushing! I fuckin’ love you.”

 Kiryu kissed him again. “I love you. I love how much I can trust you now.”

 Majima still held his face. “I’ll do everythin’ I can to hang on to that trust. I mean that.”

 Kiryu ran his hand through Majima’s hair. “I know.” The next kiss was slow, soft, and long, and lasted till Majima groaned and pulled away. 

“That’s as much sweet stuff I got in me right now. Fight me, Kiryu-chan.”

 Kiryu cracked his knuckles. “Okay, but let me get my sunglasses. I don’t wanna kick sand into my eyes.”

“Wanna borrow one of these?” Majima asked, tapping his eyepatch. “Cuts the odds of that happenin’ down by half.”

“No. I could misjudge my punches and hurt you.”

 Majima rolled his eye. “I can handle that.”

“Doesn’t mean I want it to happen.” Kiryu said, putting his sunglasses on. “Let’s go, Goro.”

“Nah, changed my mind.” Majima said. “Before we get sandy or sweaty, I wanna meet this Dragon Mask guy. I bet he’s hot stuff.”

 Kiryu chuckled. “I don’t turn into a different person when I put a mask on.”

“Why not? It can be fun,” Majima said with a devilish smile, “or so I’m told.”

 Kiryu took his sunglasses back off. “I bet I could make Hannya Man talk.”

“Ya think so? I wouldn’t be so sure. I’ve seen that guy before and he don’t say much.”

 Kiryu stepped forward, feeling bold. “I still think I could. I think I could get under that suit and have him making all kinds of noises.”

 Majima’s snickered. “You’d have to beat him in a fight first, and he don’t go down easy. None of that thirty percent power shit.”

“Even better.”

“Fuck, Kaz.” Majima said, then snorted, “Yer gonna make me jealous.”

 Kiryu held back a smile. “Don’t be. You’re pretty similar actually. Same shoes, same hands, same lips.”

 Majima shoved Kiryu’s shoulder. “Sayin’ another guy’s got similar features ain’t a great way to stop me from being jealous, but this is the one exception I’m okay with.”

“Yeah? Why?” Kiryu asked. 

He earned a giddy laugh from Majima. “Sneaky bastard. I ain’t tellin’ you shit.” 

Kiryu chuckled. “I thought I had you.”

“Oh you’ve got me,” Majima said, squeezing Kiryu’s arm, “but I ain’t givin’ away another man’s identity. That ain’t my secret to tell.”

“Heh, and people call me stubborn.”

“Get changed, Kazzy. I’ll wait in the other room.”

“Okay. It might take a few minutes, I have to find everything.”

 Majima grabbed his neck and kissed him, then left Kiryu’s room, closing the door behind him. Kiryu could hear him humming  as he walked further away. 

 After digging through his closet, Kiryu found all the parts of his costume. He took time lacing up the boots and adjusting the mask, but was finally ready. While this was happening, he heard Majima doing dishes in the kitchen. 

 When he stepped out of his room, Majima was sitting at the dining table, looking through Riona’s fashion magazine again. Despite how animated his expressions usually were, Kiryu hadn’t ever seen Majima look so shocked.  

 After a moment of stunned silence, Majima cleared his throat. “Turn around. Let me see the rest.”

 Kiryu did a slow turn. When he looked back Majima was standing right in front of him. He hadn’t even heard him get up. 

“Ya can’t wear that!” Majima exclaimed. “You’re too hot, Kiryu-chan! I can’t focus, I can barely talk.” He tilted his head back. “Is my nose bleeding? Check for me.”

Kiryu chuckled. “Okay, calm down, it’s just shorts.”

“Just shorts? Just? Fuck me, you’re… the sun. I’m gonna get burned if I stare too long.”

 Kiryu pulled the mask off and pushed his hair out of his eyes. “That’s overdramatic.” he said. He’d be lying if he said he didn’t appreciate the praise, but he didn’t know how to respond to it.

“That’s me bein’ honest. And if ya didn’t want overdramatic, ya picked the wrong guy to get with, Kiryu-chan.” Majima took his hand and kissed his wrist, then pulled himself close. “Forget whatever the hell we were gonna do today. I wanna pull these tight little shorts off with my teeth.”

“Hmm…” Kiryu started, “Yeah, that does sound like a good idea.”

“Yeah?” Majima asked, that shining smile on his face. He backed Kiryu up, moving him around the corner and back into their room. They were close enough that Kiryu could feel how hard he was. Majima hastily shut the door and pressed against him once more, kissing his neck.

 Kiryu sighed, and let his hands run up under Majima’s shirt and along his back. “My Goro.” Kiryu said softly. 

“Damn right.” Majima said. He unbuttoned the shirt he was wearing and threw it across the room. “Ya got some nerve tellin’ me to calm down when you’re dressed like this. Ya had to know it’d make me lose my mind.”

 Kiryu was about to answer, but Majima’s hand had trailed down between his legs. “Kaz,” Majima continued, his teeth grazing the other side of Kiryu’s neck, each of his hands running over the fabric at the front and back of his shorts. “There ain’t a damn thing I wouldn’t do for ya right now. Any way, any position, any nasty little fantasy. Tell me what ya need.”

 Majima ended that sentence with a squeeze of his hand, making Kiryu groan. He tried to focus, but between Majima’s hands, and the way his tongue was moving over his chest, it was getting difficult. “Just… ah, just fuck me.”

 Majima cupped his ass. “I was hoping you’d say that. Whatever ya want, Kaz, I mean it. I’ll even shut up if ya want me to.”

 Kiryu took Majima’s head in his hands and kissed him. “I don’t want that. Even when you’re being overdramatic, I still like hearing you talk.”

 Majima’s lip turned up in an attractive, crooked smile. “Sap.”

“I’m the sap? You just called me the sun.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima kissed him again. Their tongues met and Majima moaned, pressing firmly against his body. Majima always sounded so desperate, like every time they were together was the first time. Or maybe, like Kiryu, he was still blown away that they were allowed to be with each other like this. Like a habit, neither of them pulled away till catching their breath was absolutely necessary.

“I want out of these boots.” Kiryu said. 

“Let me do it.” Majima said, dropping down to his knees. He kissed Kiryu’s bare thigh as he worked on the laces. Kiryu undid Majima’s eyepatch, letting it slip through his fingers and onto the futon behind him. 

 Majima touched his leg. Kiryu raised it and he removed the boot, then did the same with the other leg. His mouth was back on his right thigh, hands kneading into his muscles. 

“You’re so ripped, so strong.” Majima said. His mouth pressed wet kisses against Kiryu’s stomach, and his hands touched the hem at the top of his shorts. “I’d keep ya in these, but then I wouldn’t be able to think about anything else for our match. It wouldn’t be right.”

“Take them off.” Kiryu said, wavering a little where he stood. It was hot, and the anticipation made him feel dizzy. 

 Majima kissed his hip, then, true to his word, he bit down on the waistband of Kiryu’s shorts. With that and his hands, he slowly pulled off both the shorts and the black briefs he had on underneath. Kiryu stepped out of them. “I’m openin’ the best present in the world.” Majima muttered. 

“Heh, do you open all your presents with your teeth?”

 Majima leered at him. “If they’re as good as this, yeah.”

“I’ll try and remember that.”

“Don’t.” Majima said, “Yer job ain’t to think right now.”

 Kiryu nodded and was pulled down to the futon and onto his back. Majima’s lips touched his as soon as his head hit the pillow. Kiryu’s arms closed around his slim waist and pulled till Majima’s entire body was on top of him. 

 Majima smiled with that enthusiastic playfulness that made being with him so exciting. He put his hand on the futon and tried to push himself up, but Kiryu grabbed his arm and pulled, so Majima fell back down, chest to chest.

 They both laughed. Majima slapped his shoulder, then grabbed his face and held it as he kissed him, grinding his body down against Kiryu as his tongue curled around his own. His other hand took Kiryu’s and interlocked their fingers, and nearly at the same time, they squeezed each others hands till it teetered on the edge of pain. The rumbling, deep laugh at the back of Majima’s throat only heightened the excitement.  

 The kiss was broken by Majima, who pulled back suddenly. “Shit, I forgot about the ice.”

“I don’t care.” Kiryu said. A half-truth. It was still hot, and he had liked the idea, but he didn’t want Majima to leave the room. Majima looked down at him. “Stay here.” Kiryu said, still gripping his hand. 

“Tempting as that is,” Majima said, and kissed his neck. “I won’t be long, and when I get back it’ll be even better.”

 Kiryu gave a slight nod and released him. Majima sat up and found his shirt. He placed it overtop of Kiryu, who was otherwise naked. Then he stood up and smiled. “Ya look good in my clothes, Kiryu-chan.”

 Kiryu was still riding the wave of confidence from Majima’s many compliments. He thought about his tee shirt from the other day, the one Majima wanted to keep. He put his hand on his stomach, at the edge of the fabric. “It’s a nice shirt.” he said. It was black with red flowers, the one he’d worn the day he arrived. It was soft under Kiryu’s fingers as his moved his hand lower. He watched Majima’s face as he touched himself through the fabric. Majima looked enthralled. 

“You’re tryna make my jaw drop right off today, aren’t ya?” Majima finally murmured, shifting his weight from one foot to the other. “Don’t move, gorgeous. I don’t wanna miss a second of this.”

 He opened the door, closed it behind him, then Kiryu could hear fast footsteps as Majima hurried to the kitchen. Kiryu smiled, still slowly feeling the shirt fabric. It felt expensive, and so soft, softer than any of the shirts in his closet. 

 After only a couple of minutes, Majima returned and shut the door behind him. He smiled down at Kiryu, holding a bowl and a towel in his hand. He looked strong, powerful, with just a hint of that devilish smile. Kiryu moved his hand again, enjoying the feel of the soft shirt against his shaft. 

 Majima’s smile widened and he took a deep breath. “Everybody sees ya as this stoic figure, but I’m startin’ to think you like showin’ off as much as I do.”

“Heh, maybe. You’re overdressed.” Kiryu said. Majima was only wearing a pair of black shorts, but that was too much. 

 Majima undid the button of his shorts with one hand, and after unzipping the fly they fell to the floor, revealing the purple and pink striped briefs he wore underneath. “Better?”

“Almost.” Kiryu said. “Come here.”

 Majima kneeled down next to him on his left, and placed the bowl and towel on the futon next to Kiryu’s shoulder. The ice cubes inside rattled. Kiryu reached for Majima’s hip, but his hand was grabbed. 

“No touching yet. I got work to do first.” Majima said. He kissed Kiryu’s wrist, then placed his hand on the pillow over his head. 

 With his other hand, Kiryu once again ran his hand over the shirt on top of him. “No touching you, or no touching at all?”

 Majima bit his lip. “Fuck. I didn’t think of that. That might be more fun than what I had planned. Damn, now I don’t know what I want.”

“You brought the ice, and I’ve been wondering what you were going to do with it since yesterday. I say we do that, and afterwards, if you still want me to show off…” Kiryu pulled the shirt away and placed his hand over his head.

“I’m so goddamn lucky.” Majima whispered. “Keep your hands where they are and relax. You’re too hot, and I’m gonna cool ya down.”

 Kiryu nodded. With both hands over his head, he touched the soft fabric of Majima’s shirt, then took a deep breath. Majima’s cologne was intoxicating. So was the sight of his lips, which he licked, before picking an ice cube out of the bowl. 

“Close your eyes, Kaz.” Majima said.

 Kiryu did as he was told. He took another deep breath, then he felt Majima’s fingertips run slowly from his neck, right down the middle of his chest to the top of his abs. A second later, he felt a shock of cold just below his Adam’s apple, as Majima repeated the motion with the ice cube. The cold caused goosebumps to rise under where the ice touched his skin. Kiryu let out a breath. It was different, and good. 

 Majima’s fingers touched his left shoulder, and moved down his arm to his wrist, the ice cube followed the same path, then the same thing happened to his right. As the cube melted, more and more drops of water hit Kiryu’s skin, dripping down his arms, cooling him. It was too cold for him to fully relax, but he figured that was the point. It was exciting. 

 He expected fingers to touch him next, but it Kiryu gasped when he felt the ice cube at the bottom of his left pectoral. Majima traced around the muscle, still slowly. Kiryu tensed as the ice moved closer to his nipple, but before it touched, he felt the ice on his right pec, mirroring what he’d done to the left. Kiryu flinched at the first touch, and he heard a rumble of villainous laughter. 

“Goro.” he whispered. He wasn’t sure if he was disappointed or relieved the ice hadn’t touched such a sensitive area. Once again, just as he thought the ice would touch his right nipple, Majima stopped. 

 There was a moment where nothing happened, and Kiryu realized he was holding his breath. He let it go, eyes still closed, and tried to relax. The next moment, he gasped again. Majima’s lips touched his left nipple, kissing it gently with cold lips. Oh, not just cold! The ice cube was inside his mouth now, and an undignified noise came out of Kiryu’s mouth, something between a yelp and a laugh, and in a higher pitch than he thought he could make. Majima chuckled, but his mouth was still on him, full of cold water. His tongue swirled what was left of the ice cube around his nipple, the tension and pleasure causing Kiryu close his hands into fists. 

 When he was released, Kiryu was breathing hard. Majima leaned across him to get at his right side, his warm body a welcome contrast as he performed the same, nearly unbearably cold action to his other nipple. The ice cube was tiny now, and when Majima let go with his mouth he replaced it with the palms of his hands. He must have swallowed the ice cube, because the next thing Kiryu felt was his cold tongue lick across his upper chest.  

“Too much, darlin’?” Majima asked. 

“No. Almost, but it’s good, it’s… really something.” Kiryu said. “Let me touch you.”

“Not yet.”

“Can I look at you?”

 Majima laughed. “No.”

“Kiss me then. Please.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima straddled his waist, and his cold lips touched Kiryu’s. Kiryu’s hands, still above his head, closed around Majima’s shirt again. He pushed his tongue into Majima’s mouth, which was still close to freezing, and they moaned nearly at the same time. Majima’s hands squeezed his upper arms, then he pushed himself up. 

“I have a real hard time sayin’ no to ya, Kaz.”

“Then don’t.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima laughed. “But you look so good like this. Ya want more ice?”

“Um…” Kiryu said. 

Majima shifted off of him, back to his left side. His fingertips touched him again, down the middle of his chest, but this time they didn’t stop at his abdomen. Majima continued down till his fingers brushed against Kiryu cock. He took it in his hand, pumping slowly. 

 Kiryu groaned, eyes still shut. “I don’t think I want ice there.” 

“Okay, gorgeous.” Majima said, his lips close to Kiryu’s ear, making him shiver in a way that had nothing to do with the ice. Majima’s mouth stayed there, sucking on his earlobe. 

 Kiryu wanted to respond, but everything he was thinking was what Majima would call sappy. Still, he needed to say something. “I trust you.” he said, turning his head and nuzzling it against Majima’s. “I love all the ways you turn me on.” 

“I need you, Kaz.” Majima said, kissing his cheek, then down to his neck.

“Do you want me to do that to you? With the ice?” Kiryu asked, his voice hitching as Majima tightened the grip he had on his shaft.

“Maybe later. I got ya right where I want ya.” Majima said, his lips against his throat. “Just look at you.”

“I thought I wasn’t allowed to look.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima laughed and leaned his forehead against Kiryu’s chest. “And I thought you were a rebel, Kiryu-chan.”

 Kiryu opened his eyes and grabbed hold of Majima’s arms. He shouldn’t have underestimated Majima’s reflexes, because at the same moment Kiryu flipped Majima onto his back, Majima’s legs locked around his waist, laughing as he did. 

“Look at you.” Kiryu said, running his hands up Majima’s legs to his thighs. His hair was ruffled, his lips looked pink, and the rise and fall of his breath under all that taut musculature made Kiryu burn with desire.

 Majima squeezed his legs around him. Kiryu’s hands travelled further up Majima’s thighs to his briefs. “I like these on you.” Kiryu said, brushing his fingertips over the substantial bulge at the front.

 Majima’s tilted his hips up against his hand. Kiryu reached inside and pulled out  his hard cock. “Kiryu-chan.” Majima moaned. “I had a plan.”

“Sorry, I couldn’t help myself.” Kiryu said, reaching around and squeezing Majima’s ass as he continued to stroke him. 

“Ooh, my rebel, ya ain’t sorry at all.” Majima teased, then planted his feet. Kiryu let go of him just in time to get twisted and pushed onto his back again. Majima grabbed his hands and pressed them down on either side of Kiryu’s head. “Now stay.” he growled. Kiryu tried to move his hands, but Majima held them still. 

“Kiss me.” Kiryu said. 

“Oh, I don’t think you’re in the position to be givin’ orders after that trick, Kazzy.” Majima said, but leaned over him anyway, getting close enough that he could nearly feel Majima’s lips on his. 

“It’s not an order,” Kiryu said. He raised his head, but Majima pulled back, “it’s a request.”

“Not good enough, gorgeous.” Majima said, looking amused. 

Kiryu grit his teeth. “Please.”

 Majima’s smile widened into something dangerous and gleeful. Kiryu bucked his hips, and Majima responded in the same way. He still wore those pink and purple briefs, even though his cock was free, and rubbing against Kiryu’s own. 

“Goro.” Kiryu said again. “I need you to kiss me.”

 Majima barely waited till he was finished speaking to kiss him, hard and intense, hands gripping tightly, hips grinding against each other. Then Majima’s mouth was on his neck, over his pulse, in just the right spot to make him shiver. 

“Can’t say no to ya, Kaz. I’ve tried, and I can’t. I’d save the world or set it on fire if ya asked me to.” Majima said, groaning as he moved his body overtop of Kiryu’s, hands digging into skin. It was close to painful, but he loved it. Kiryu could barely think.

“All I want is you.” Kiryu breathed. “Just you.”

 Majima finally let go of his hand and touched his forehead, pushing his hair back. He smiled, then his tongue was back in Kiryu’s mouth, hot and rough. 

“Take these off.” Kiryu said, pulling on Majima’s underwear. 

 Majima nodded and crawled away. Hot as it was in the room, Kiryu missed the warmth of his body. Majima took off the briefs and reached for his bag. 

“Hurry up.” Kiryu said as Majima pulled out the lube bottle. Majima looked at him sharply, then laughed.

“Oh, I’m so sorry, Kiryu-chan.” Majima said. “I kept ya waiting for a full five seconds, didn’t I?”

 Kiryu knew he was being sarcastic, but he nodded seriously. “That’s too long.”

 Majima squeezed some lube into his hand and walked on his knees till he was between Kiryu’s legs. “I’ll make it up to ya,” he said. He touched Kiryu’s thigh with his knuckles, nudging till Kiryu spread his legs further apart. Then he grasped the base of Kiryu’s shaft and pressed his lips to the tip. “if you’re good.”

“What if I don’t want to be good?” Kiryu asked before he even knew what he was asking. 

 He could feel Majima’s breath on his cock as he laughed wildly. “Then I’m not gonna be good either.” he growled, and enveloped him into his searing hot mouth, so far that Kiryu’s could feel the back of his throat. 

 Kiryu’s strangled gasp was loud, and so was the moan Majima made in response, Majima’s lubed up hands slid underneath him and grabbed his ass, pushing Kiryu even further into his mouth as he bobbed his head. 

“Yes” Kiryu hissed. Majima’s hand was moving his legs apart, while the other hand pressed in between, easily slipping a finger inside him. Kiryu moaned, and Majima, his mouth full, hummed in agreement, then sucked hard. “You’re so…” Kiryu started, barely able to think. The word Good was off the table now. Bad felt like an insult. He frowned. Majima’s lips released him. 

“Kiryu-chan, what’d I tell ya about thinkin’ too much?” Majima said. Despite the warning, he kept going, adding a second finger. 

“I’m not.” Kiryu grunted. “I’m just trying… ah, to find the right compliment.”

 Majima licked the underside of his cock. “I get the picture, darlin’. Turn that brain off.” 

 It wasn’t hard to let go of any stray thoughts. Kiryu raised his head and caught Majima’s eye just as his lips closed around him again. “Fuck.” he said, and let his head fall back on the pillow, still watching. 

 Majima released him completely and sat back on his heels. He picked up Kiryu’s left leg and kissed it, keeping eye contact. With his other hand he drizzled lube over both of them. Kiryu watched the muscles in Majima’s arms flex as he grasped hold and lifted his hips. 

“Goro.” Kiryu moaned. He kept watching, aching with anticipation. Majima’s lips parted as he rubbed his hard cock against Kiryu’s ass, pressing against his opening. Majima made a noise as he pushed himself inside, further and further as Kiryu nodded. He wanted all of it, and knew he could take it. 

“Fuck, Kaz.” Majima said, still holding Kiryu’s leg. His other hand was under his tailbone, holding his hips just off the floor. Majima thrust inside once more, and Kiryu couldn’t help squeezing him. “You’re so hot, so…”

 He didn’t finish the sentence, but drove into him slowly, again and again. Kiryu wanted to tease him about thinking too much, but he didn’t want to risk Majima stopping what he was doing.

“Touch yourself for me.” Majima whispered, pushing deep with every motion of his hips, his abdominal muscles contracting as he moved. 

 Kiryu took hold of himself, wet and slippery from Majima’s generous application of lube. “Ah, Kaz,” Majima said, picking up speed. “I wanna remember this. Wanna see this every time I close my eye. Every time I’m alone I wanna remember this exact moment. Fuck, am I ever gonna miss you.”

 There was an edge to Majima’s voice that sounded pained. He had that desperate look, but there was something heart-wrenching about it. Kiryu kept watching him, moving with him what little he could as Majima held him in place. 

“I love you.” Kiryu said. Majima shut his eye and sucked in a breath, looking almost upset. Kiryu couldn’t ignore that. “Stop. Stop for a minute.”

 Majima stopped immediately. He was careful about pulling out and setting Kiryu down. The second he did, Kiryu sat up and grabbed him, holding him into a fiercely tight hug. Majima was trembling, either from emotion or arousal, and breathing hard in his ear. Kiryu held the back of his head, then pulled him back. “I…”

 Majima leaned in and kissed him, and without words, they told each other what they could only begin to express. Majima’s fingers dug into his skin, and Kiryu tightened his iron grip. Their bodies rubbed against each other, still turned on and aching for more. Kiryu finally had to catch his breath. Majima pulled on his legs, trying to move him. It took a second, then Kiryu got the point. Majima wanted him in his lap. 

“But I might-”

 Majima rolled his eye at Kiryu’s concern. He opened the cap of the lube and applied more, his hand tugging at himself. “C’mere, Kazuma.”

 Kiryu tentatively straddled Majima where he sat. Majima’s warm hands helped him, urged him to sit down as Majima guided his cock inside Kiryu once more. Kiryu slowly continued downward until they were skin to skin. Kiryu grit his teeth and shuddered, bringing himself up again, then back down. Majima was staring, open-mouthed. Kiryu braced himself on Majima’s shoulders and kissed him. Despite his fear of crushing Majima, Kiryu wrapped a leg around his back, fully on his lap now. 

 Majima held his back and rocked with him. It felt precarious, and he’d never dreamed about putting this much weight on a partner, but as Majima kept insisting, he wasn’t fragile. 

 They couldn’t stop kissing each other, both becoming more vocal as the passion rose. Majima reached between them to touch Kiryu as they moved together, closer and closer to a climax so powerful that as it approached Kiryu was shaking just as much as Majima. 

“I’ve got ya, gorgeous. Come on.” Majima urged. Kiryu moaned, and soon he came so hard he saw stars. Majima was right behind him, gasping and thrusting into him till they both grew quiet. 

“Kazuma.” Majima whispered, shaky and still holding him tight. 

“It’s okay. We’re okay.” Kiryu murmured, just as much for himself as for Majima. 

“Yeah.” Majima agreed quietly. 

 After they’d cleaned themselves up, Kiryu turned on the fan. Majima stretched, sitting up again, but he didn’t make eye contact. When Kiryu was finished with the fan he laid down on his back. It was hot, but Majima didn’t look like he cared. He settled with his head on Kiryu’s chest like he had many times before. As before, Kiryu couldn’t keep his hand away from Majima’s hair. 

“I’ve had a lot of sex over the years...” Majima said. He took a deep breath. 

 Kiryu couldn’t see his face. After a moment of silence he had to speak. “Is there another part to that sentence?”

“Nah, just bragging.” Majima said, then chuckled. Kiryu smiled and continued to run his hand through his soft hair. Majima took another breath, still facing away, “What I was gonna say was, even though I’ve had a lot of sex, it’s never meant this much, ya know? It’s never been this intense, and it sure as shit hasn’t ever pulled me apart like this before. So if that got to be too much…”

“No, I get it.” Kiryu said. “What we have together is… powerful. It’s stronger than either of us on our own.”

“Mmm.” Majima said, nodding against his chest. 

 Kiryu kept talking, even though he wasn’t sure what his point was. “It’s overwhelming, but not in a bad way. It’s like… when you’re on the other side of the room you’re too far away. It’s going to be really hard waking up alone.”

“Kaz.” Majima said, finally turning his head. Kiryu touched his cheek, meeting the vulnerability of his expression with a smile. 

“Too sappy?” Kiryu asked.

 Majima smiled back. “Yeah, but not in a bad way.”

Notes:

Alternate chapter titles:

Icy Hot
Cube Part One
Tight Little Shorts

 

Updates might take a bit longer than usual this coming month, but they will still happen. Thanks for sticking around!

Chapter 36: Majima On Desk

 A few minutes after they’d caught their breath, Kiryu followed Majima outside for a smoke. They sat in silence for a few minutes, and Kiryu couldn’t help smiling at the sight to his left. 

 Majima sat on the front step, one leg stretched out in front of him, the other leg bent on the step. His arm rested on his knee, cigarette loosely held between his slender, scarred fingers as he looked out at the ocean. The wind caught Majima’s open shirt and ruffled his hair, which shone in the sun.

“Wasn’t that long ago that I’d’ve melted right through the floorboards if I caught ya staring at me like that.” Majima said, “I still might, Kiryu-chan.”

“If you did, I wouldn’t be able to keep looking at you.”

 Majima put the cigarette between his lips and fell backwards onto the step, arms outstretched, and chuckled. “That did it.”

“Heh, I was wrong. This gives me a better view of your abs.” Kiryu said. He watched Majima’s lips as he took the cigarette out of his mouth and blew smoke straight up into the air. 

“Stare all ya want. It takes effort to look this good, and if it’s the abs that get yer attention, then it’s all worth it.” Majima said, still flat on his back. He hadn’t bothered with his eyepatch, and Kiryu was glad for that.

“I’d still love you without them, but they are nice.” Kiryu said. “So are your legs, and your lips, and your eye, and-”

“Knock it off, Kaz,” Majima replied, swatting at him even though he was out of reach, “I already melted.”

 Kiryu chuckled. “That’s cute.”

 Majima made a face. He took another drag and blew smoke in Kiryu’s direction. “Cute, huh?”

“Yeah, cute. Don’t pretend like that’s a bad thing.” Kiryu said. He nudged Majima’s leg with his foot, “I wanted to talk to you about something.”

 Majima sat up and extinguished what little was left of his cigarette. 

“I think I should tell Ayako about us today.” Kiryu said. “She knows how to be discreet, and I think she knows I’m keeping something from her.”

“Well, I got makeup practice with her ‘n Haruka tonight. You could do it then, or would havin’ us all there be too much to handle?”

“Yeah, I’ll take her aside and tell her myself. Give her time to deal with it before you start on the makeup.”

“I’m in your corner, however you wanna handle it.” Majima said seriously, then he smiled. “I’m lookin’ forward to doin’ makeup with them. Didn’t think I’d have much to offer these kids, unless ya change yer mind and let me teach ‘em the ins and outs of knife fighting.”

“Heh. No knife fighting for… at least another decade.”

“I don’t usually think in terms of decades. Hard to imagine.” Majima said, looking back out at the ocean. 

“I hope you’d be here full-time by then.”

 Majima smiled briefly, but looked deep in thought. “Ya think you’ll still be runnin’ this place in ten years?”

“I hope so. I found purpose here. Purpose that does some good instead of bad.”

 Majima nodded. “By then the younger kids’ll be old enough to look after the place. Haruka’ll be what, twenty-four?”

 Kiryu shook his head, “That’s hard to imagine.”

“There’s a lot I wanna do when I get back to business. I’ve been so distracted with the damn Hills project, but I’m almost there, then I can focus on what the fuck I’m gonna do next. It’s gonna be a hell of a grand opening. Nishida even got real permits for the fireworks, and professionals to set ‘em off. I woulda had my boys take care of it but we want this as legit as possible.” Majima sighed and fell backwards again. “I’m gonna have to wear a damn suit.”

“You look great in a suit.” Kiryu said, staring again. 

“Yeah? I’m still thinkin’ of those little red short-shorts of yours.”

“They’re wrestling shorts.” Kiryu said with a frown, “It’s not going to be weird if I wear them on Sunday, right?”

 Majima smiled from the wood floor. “Nah. I can manage an hour or two of self-control. Can’t say the same for Monday when it’s just the two of us.”

“Heh, good idea. No holds barred on Monday.” Kiryu said. Majima’s delighted laugh woke Mame from his nap. He gave a half-hearted woof and turned around so he was fully inside the doghouse. 

 Kiryu made sure no one was around, then reached for Majima’s hand. “I wish I could be there for your Hills opening.”

 Majima’s fingers brushed over his own. “No ya don’t. Big crowd, cameras flashing, gossip reporters yelling shitty questions and ya can’t even punch ‘em. It’ll be annoying as hell.”

 Despite his complaints, Kiryu got the feeling Majima was looking forward to it. Kiryu clasped his hand and pulled him back to a sitting position. “You’re good with people when you want to be. I’m sure it’ll be fine. And it’s good for your… I don’t know, your public image.”

 Majima scoffed. “Dunno about that. I’ve spent the better part of two decades cultivating a bad public image, or did ya forget what I actually do for work?” The wind blew Majima’s hair back again and he took a deep breath. “But hey, knowin’ I got you out here is a hell of a motivator. I was gettin’ real restless without ya.

 Kiryu paused for a moment. Thinking of the future, their future, was still so strange. It felt like if he didn’t make more plans now, all of it could slip away. “What do you usually do for Christmas and the New Year?” Kiryu asked. 

 Majima watched him closely. “Drink, mostly. Why?”

“Because I want you here.”

“Done.”

“That was easy.” Kiryu said. Majima hadn’t even hesitated. 

 Majima stood up and stretched. “It usually ain’t a fun time of year for ol’ Goro. The timing might be weird, and I don’t know what the fuck’ll be goin’ on with Saejima by then, but I’ll make it happen.”

 There was something in his tone that sounded sad, even though he spoke with enthusiasm. Kiryu started to get up when Majima took his hand and pulled him to his feet. He didn’t let go of the hand once he was upright. “Whatever happens, you won’t be alone.”

 Majima froze, then nodded and looked anywhere but at Kiryu. “Much obliged.” he said, sounding choked up. He cleared his throat, and pulled Kiryu into the house. Hidden behind the closed door, Majima took Kiryu’s face in his hands, kissed him hard, then punched his arm even harder. “Stop bein’ such a fuckin’ sweetheart. Yer killin’ me!”

 Kiryu nodded, holding Majima by the waist. The more Kiryu looked, the more he appreciated. He lowered his voice. “What should I do then?”

 A different sort of smile spread over Majima’s face. That electric, dangerous smile. “Do ya want me to tell you? Cause it looks to me like ya got some ideas of yer own.”

“I do.” Kiryu said. He backed Majima up into their room. “I could stare at you forever.”

 Majima tried to glare, but he was still smiling. “Still too sappy!”

“You’ll live.” Kiryu said, and kissed his cheek. He maneuvered him further into the room towards the back wall, then turned Majima around and kissed his neck from behind. Kiryu’s arms wrapped around his willing partner, who melted against him, leaning his head back on Kiryu’s left shoulder as Kiryu licked the right side of his neck. 

“Kaz. Talk to me.” Majima whispered. 

 Kiryu moved his right hand down the taut, smooth skin of Majima’s chest, down his abs, and further still till he got his hand inside the waistband of Majima’s shorts. 

“Kaz.” he repeated as Kiryu’s hand took hold of his already hard shaft. Majima’s mouth fell open as Kiryu touched him, and Kiryu nuzzled his face against his neck. 

“You feel so good.” Kiryu whispered, then closed his lips around Majima’s earlobe. “I get so turned on just looking at you.”

“Ya gonna fuck me good and hard, Kiryu-chan?” Majima purred, drawing out every syllable.

 Kiryu sighed. “Yeah. Nice and hard.”

 He pushed Majima forward. His hands hit Kiryu’s desk, and he let out a shrill laugh. Arching his back, he looked over his shoulder, and Kiryu got another glimpse of that hungry smile. 

 Kiryu pulled his shorts and underwear down, leaving Majima in only his black and red shirt. “I like this shirt.” Kiryu said, running his hand over the fabric. Then he left Majima where he was to go retrieve the lube.

“It’s gonna remind me of you anytime I wear it.” Majima said. 

“Mmm, good. Now take it off.” Kiryu said, putting the bottle on the desk. He quickly took off his own clothes, knowing they’d only get in the way.

 Majima shrugged the shirt off his shoulders and put his hands on the desk again, stretching his back like a cat. Kiryu felt down his spine, against his brightly inked skin. Majima looked back again, and Kiryu was struck by how lucky he was. 

 He couldn’t help wrapping his arms around Majima’s torso again, kissing his back as he pressed himself against the beautiful nude form in front of him. “You’re so hot.” Kiryu said, knowing now that hot was more acceptable to Majima than beautiful. 

“Touch me again, Kaz.”

 This wasn’t the time to tease, and after everything they’d already done that morning, Kiryu was ready to give Majima whatever he wanted. “You’re so hard.” Kiryu said as he held Majima’s cock, firmly pumping his hand. “And the perfect size.” He kept the side of his face on Majima’s back for a moment, cheek to cheek with the fierce hannya, as his other hand roamed over his chest. Squeezing his muscles the way Majima liked to do with him. 

“I love this body.” Kiryu murmured. “My Goro.” He reluctantly let him go so he could take the lube and slather it on his hands. Majima hummed this approval as Kiryu’s fingers slid around him, against him, inside him. “My partner.”

“Yeah, Kaz. Yours.” Majima groaned. Kiryu watched his face as he pressed his fingers inside. Majima bent his elbows and rested them on the desk in front of him. 

 How was he ever going to get any work done at this desk now? The thought made Kiryu smile. He would have said that out loud, but that ran the risk of getting too sappy, and that’s not what Majima needed from him right now. He was already urging Kiryu on, whispering filthy things Kiryu could only half-hear.

 Majima’s laugh sounded delirious by the time Kiryu was ready to enter him. He widened his stance and watched over his shoulder with that intense look that made Kiryu burn. The laughter turned to a long moan as Kiryu pushed himself inside. Barely any time passed before he was eagerly moving against Kiryu. 

“Goro.” Kiryu said quietly, taking hold of his hips, keeping Majima still as he thrusted. 

“Faster.” Majima said, then grunted as Kiryu complied. He moved his right arm around Majima’s waist, resting his forehead against the hannya’s. Every thrust felt better than the last. Tight and burning hot. The excitement of being with a man was as strong as ever, made so much more meaningful by how much Kiryu loved him.

“Goro,” Kiryu said between deep breaths, “do you remember… the fight we had in 2006?”

“What?” Majima asked with a wild laugh, “Ya wanna reminisce now?”

“I was thinking,” Kiryu said, moving Majima’s hips against his own, enjoying the lewd sound of their bodies slapping together, “about how great you looked when you surprised me in the ring.” He kissed Majima’s back. “And how afterwards… we went to your office and…”

“Yeah?” Majima said.

“We should have done this.” Kiryu said, reaching around again and taking hold of Majima’s cock again. He didn’t slow down, driving into him at a fast pace. 

Majima moaned loudly in response. Kiryu could feel Majima’s thighs shake, and his hands flex and try to grip the desk.  Kiryu held him steady, till he had a better idea.

“Sit on the desk for me?” Kiryu asked, slowing to a stop. When Majima nodded, Kiryu turned him around and sat him down on the edge of the desk. Majima grabbed his face and kissed Kiryu. His tongue licked across his lips, and swirled around his own the way he loved.

 Kiryu had to bend his knees and lean over to find the right angle, but he slid back inside easily, moaning into Majima’s open mouth as he was enveloped in the scorching heat that made him feel dizzy. As Kiryu found his rhythm, Majima’s legs wrapped around his body, and his arms closed around his neck, holding Kiryu’s head to his shoulder, hands fisting in his hair.

 They were so close together, but Kiryu managed to get his hand in between them. Majima’s cock twitched as he touched it, slick from lube and precum. “Kazzy, you’re fuckin’ amazing.” Majima moaned desperately, “Gonna make me pop.”

“Yeah. Me too.” Kiryu said. Majima’s voice was just as strained as his. He could barely think, thrusting as fast as he could as he felt Majima’s legs shake again. 

 Majima’s hands dug into Kiryu’s arms. He cried out, his face pressed into Kiryu’s hair to muffle the sound, shuddering and writhing as he came. The sounds he was making, and the way he clamped down with his whole being drove Kiryu out of his mind. Majima never completely stilled, encouraging Kiryu to keep going, murmuring fuck me over and over, his legs still locked around him. Seconds later, Kiryu found his release, gasping for air as he was held in Majima’s vice grip. 

 When Kiryu came back to himself, he leaned his head back and stared at Majima, who looked as dazed as he felt. They both started laughing at the same time. Exhausted, happy laughter that ended in a long kiss.

“Let me up before this desk collapses.”

“It’s sturdy. Hang on a second.” Kiryu replied, grabbing a towel to clean them up. 

“Just amazing, Kiryu-chan.” Majima said. “Someday I’ll sneak ya into my office. Give my desk a good stress test. Maybe do some more reminiscing about all the other times we should’ve been fucking.” 

“Yeah, someday.” Kiryu said.

 Soon after, he pulled Majima into the bathroom for a relaxing, cool shower. Majima kept things light, but still clung to him like it was already their last day. Kiryu did the same, and despite the exhaustion of the morning, they both stood locked in a tight embrace till the water became too cold to be comfortable.

 Once they were dry and dressed, Majima ran to the kitchen to make them lunch. Kiryu followed, and held Majima from behind again as he explained what he was doing. Kiryu didn’t mind the cooking lesson. He listened, and watched over Majima’s shoulder. His hands moved under the fresh shirt he’d insisted Majima put on, instead of the black and red shirt he had on earlier. 

“I really like that you can cook.” Kiryu said when they sat down to eat.

“I like havin’ a reason for it. Cooking for one gets boring quick.” Majima replied. He stretched his back and grimaced, which made Kiryu frown. 

“I guess that wasn’t the most comfortable angle.” Kiryu said. “Tell me next time.”

 Majima shrugged. “I’m fine. That was about as worth it as it gets.”  

“I could give you a massage. I don’t have a lot of experience but-”

“I’m fine, Kaz, though if it means your hands are on me, I won’t say no.” Majima said, taking a big mouthful. 

“I’ll never get tired of touching you.” Kiryu said. He reached out and squeezed Majima’s leg.

 Majima laughed and leaned his head against his shoulder. “I forgot I was gonna fight ya today.”

“That’s a first- Majima!” Kiryu pulled away because Majima was trying to shovel rice into his mouth with his head still on Kiryu’s shoulder. 

 His mouth full, Majima mumbled a complaint that Kiryu couldn’t understand, but leaned away and ate properly again. 

“We’ll practice a few moves tomorrow. That’ll have to tide us over.” Kiryu said, and squeezed his leg again.

 Majima nodded. “Not all of it, right? It’s not as exciting if the kids see the whole plan.”

“Yeah, just a couple of the moves Taichi wants to help with. We could go out and practice now. Just give me a few minutes. I don’t like fighting on a full stomach if I can help it.”

 Majima snickered, “Almost everything ya do is hot, but losin’ yer lunch on the beach is an exception. Can’t even picture that.”

 Kiryu scowled. “I don’t want you to picture that. Ever.”

 Majima chuckled and looked at him affectionately. “Finish yer lunch, Kazu-chan. Faster ya do, the faster we can get out there. No gut punches for the first five minutes, I promise.”

 Kiryu nodded, his mouth full. Once finished, they stretched and went outside for one last practice before the kids came home.

Notes:

Thanks for reading and thanks for your patience!

Chapter 37: Good Secrets

 Kiryu and Majima were sitting on the front step again when they heard the kids’ voices from down the street. They arrived in two groups, loud and excited about the weekend. Mitsuo and Koji had both done well on their Math test, and they rushed to show Ayako, who had helped them study. After she’d hugged them both, the three of them showed Kiryu, who congratulated the boys and made sure Ayako had been properly thanked. 

 Izumi ran right up to Majima. “Majima-san, Tuesday is only four days away!” she said, and clamoured onto the step next to him. 

“That’s right. Why, ya gonna miss me, small fry?” Majima asked.

“Yeah! I made you a present.” she said, and held out her backpack. “I didn’t wrap it so it’s in here.” she said, pointing to the front pocket. 

“A present? Aww, ya didn’t have to do that.” Majima said, looking genuinely touched. 

 From beside Kiryu, Mitsuo whispered to Ayako, “I thought we were waiting till-”

“She couldn’t wait, and she’d just blab if she didn’t give hers now.” Ayako whispered back. Kiryu looked at her. She smiled but didn’t say more. He’d ask her later. For now, he turned back to see Majima dig into the little yellow backpack. 

“It’s a sleep mask!” Izumi said before he had it all the way out of the bag. “Now you can go to sleep on the plane ride home.”

 Majima held back a smile as he examined it. “It’s custom made, isn’t it?”

“I made it all by myself!” Izumi said proudly. 

 Majima held it up. It was a thin, pink sleep mask that they sold at pharmacies and 100 yen stores. The left side had been cut away, with the seams ‘sewn’ together with staples, so it would only cover his good eye. His name had been written on the front in black ink. “How ‘bout that, It’s great!” Majima said, “And it’s one of my favourite colours too.”

 Izumi beamed, but Riona laughed like  Majima had told a joke. “Pink is your favourite colour?”

“Yup.” Majima said simply. 

“Oh.” she replied. She looked embarrassed, then forced a smile. “Um, nice choice, Izumi.”

 Izumi helped Majima put on the present. Kiryu nodded at Riona, who shot a guilty smile back. 

 Riona still held certain ideas that Kiryu definitely hadn’t taught her, but she was learning to let them go. They’d had many conversations about it over the years, and he was proud of the effort she continued to make to look at the world with compassion, even as she battled her own deep insecurities. Once in a while she still blurted out something insensitive, but once she was taught it was wrong, she apologized and never did it again. 

 Kiryu could hardly blame her for this one. He tried to imagine telling Kazama-san his favourite colour was pink, or anything else that his mentor would have considered less-than-masculine. There’s no way that would have gone over well. He remembered Nishiki getting scolded when he was fifteen just for the amount of time he spent on his hair. 

 Kiryu was also learning to let go of some of his own old-fashioned ideas. It wasn’t always easy, and ten years in prison hadn’t helped. He smiled to himself. It wasn’t even two weeks ago that he realized he’d been completely ignoring an aspect of his own personality. He thought of Goromi’s dress, of Majima’s short pink swim trunks and that bright pair of underwear he’d worn that morning. Kiryu decided he liked pink too. 

 The kids laughed, and he looked over at Majima. With the modified sleep mask, he had a patch over each eye. “How’s it look? I can’t tell.”

 Izumi laughed. “It looks so good!”

 Now that Izumi was laughing, the other kids joined in, just in time for Haruka to walk into the yard. 

“Look at what I made for Majima-san!” Izumi yelled, bouncing in excitement. 

“Who’re ya talkin’ to?” Majima asked, still blinded by the mask. 

 Haruka walked over. “I think he likes it.”

“‘Course I like it.” Majima said, pulling the mask up and peeking out. Kiryu loved to see him like this, a bright smile on this face, surrounded by the kids and playing along with their games. 

“Is Majima-san your best friend, Uncle Kaz?” Eri asked him. 

“Uh, y-yeah, I guess he is.” Kiryu replied.

 Eri nodded. “My best friend is Yui-chan,  even though she’s in a lower grade at school. My second-best friends are Saki, and Riona and Izumi, and my third-best friends are Haruka and Ayako.”

 Kiryu chuckled. He didn’t know there was a tier system for best friends. “How about me?”

“You’re a boy.” Eri said, as if the distinction were obvious. She smiled and walked away, and once more Kiryu had to hold in a laugh. Apparently they all learned these outdated lessons early, but that was a conversation for another day. 

“What’d’ya think, lil’ chef? Is it pasta night?” Majima asked Shiro, who had gravitated towards him with most of the others. When Shiro nodded enthusiastically, they agreed to meet in the kitchen in two hours, and solemnly shook hands like foreign businessmen.  

 After looking over and praising the math tests, Majima stood up. He thanked Izumi, and told the kids he had to put his present away to keep it safe. 

 Majima went inside, and Haruka followed. The kids dispersed, gathering baseball equipment and carrying it over to the beach. They’d all been told about Saturday night, and Ayako and Taichi were happy to keep an eye on the younger kids while Haruka and the two men were gone for a few hours. 

 Ayako followed Izumi to go pet Mame, who wagged his curly tail and ran around both girls, excited as always to see the kids. Kiryu gave her a minute, then asked Ayako if she’d go for a short walk so they could talk. She nodded and they walked down the street. 

 Ayako turned right at the gate before Kiryu told her to, following the jogging route they usually took together during the summer. Kiryu wasn’t sure how to start, and they were getting far from the house before either of them spoke. 

“You’re still going through that growth spurt. Are your shoes fitting okay?” Kiryu asked. 

“Yes, thanks. And when I grow out of these, Haruka has a pair that she’s going to let me have because they’re getting too small for her, so I’ll be okay for a while.”

“Good. Just let me know before they start to hurt. It isn’t fun walking around in tight clothes. When I was your age I was the tallest kid at the orphanage and I was always outgrowing my shoes.” Kiryu said. The caretaker had always been exasperated with him when he complained about it, but it wasn’t as though he could help how fast he was growing. He didn’t want the kids to feel like they had to be quiet if they were uncomfortable, or to feel like they were a burden the way Kiryu had felt as a kid. 

“Thank you. I’ll let you know.” Ayako said.

 They kept walking for another minute till Ayako stopped near a bus stop in front of an old, uninhabited house. “I think I know what you’re going to say, Uncle Kaz.”

“Y-you do?”

“Yes. And I know you tell us that it’s wrong to keep secrets from each other, but this is a good secret, so that’s okay, right?” she said with a kind smile. 

“Uh, yeah.” Kiryu said. He wasn’t expecting this. “A good secret can be okay to keep. How did you…” He paused. He’d had way too many miscommunications in the past. If he wasn’t clear, this would only be more embarrassing. “What secret are you talking about?”

 Ayako blinked. “The presents we’ve been making for Majima-san.”

“I uh,” Kiryu said with a chuckle, “I didn’t actually know about that.”

“Oh! It was all Mitsuo’s idea. He said we should repay him for how good he’s been to us. That’s why we’ve been hiding some of our projects. We’re going to give them to him on Sunday and Monday, except for Izumi, who couldn’t wait.”

 Kiryu felt bad that he hadn’t noticed the secrecy at all. “That’s great. I guess I’ve been pretty distracted.”

“That’s okay. I’m just happy the other kids have kept quiet so far. Taichi almost told him yesterday. Eri too.”

 There was a pause, and Kiryu wondered if it was a good idea to tell her his secret. Despite being four months younger than Taichi, Ayako was by far the most grown up of the kids. She’d been at the orphanage almost her whole life, and like Kiryu, it had caused her to take on more responsibily than any kid ever should. Was it fair to burden her further? What would he have thought if the Sunflower caretaker had told him something like this?

“Is something wrong?” Ayako asked him. 

“No.” Kiryu said, ignoring any second-thoughts he was having. The bus stop had a metal bench, so he sat down and Ayako joined him. “I have something to tell you. Something the other kids wouldn’t be able to deal with, but I want to be honest with you, and know I can count on your discretion.” 

 He knew he was speaking stiffly, the way he would speak to a superior. Kiryu had assumed this would be easier, but he felt just as nervous as when he’d talked to Haruka about this. Ayako looked up at him, concerned, but stayed quiet. 

“This isn’t a bad thing.” he continued. “I-I t’s a good secret. I wanted you to know that Majima and I, that we’re together… uh, like a couple.”

 Ayako’s eyebrows shot up in shock. She turned away, but Kiryu could already see her face turning pink. “That’s a big surprise.” she said, after what felt like a very long silence.

“Sorry. I know that’s… a lot to deal with.” Kiryu said. He wasn’t sure what else to say. She looked upset, disappointed maybe? He wasn’t sure if putting a hand on her shoulder would help, or make things worse. 

“Does this mean that…” Ayako said, speaking barely above a whisper, “ Does it mean that you and Haruka are moving back to Tokyo?”

 He turned to face her better. “No. No, Ayako, we’re not going anywhere.”

 Ayako exhaled a shaky breath and smiled through the budding tears in her eyes. “Okay. That’s good.”

 Kiryu held out his arms and hugged her. “It’s okay. I’m staying here as long as they’ll let me. We’re a family, remember? All of us.”

 Kiryu could feel Ayako nod against his shoulder. He chastised himself for not making that clear from the start, but he’d never considered that this would be a worry of hers. She sniffed, holding his arm. “Thank you, Uncle Kaz. The last manager was nice, but it wasn’t like this. It’s like I have real brothers and sisters now, and.. and a real uncle.”

“I’m glad to hear that.” Kiryu said. “And aside from a visit once in a while, I have no plans to leave. Not for more than a few days.”

He pulled her back so he could look at her. The tears were gone, and while she still looked a little embarrassed, she was smiling. “I’m happy for you, Uncle Kaz.”

“Thank you.” Kiryu replied, and pat her head like he usually did with Haruka. He started to explain the reasons why he didn’t want to tell the other kids, but Ayako nodded before he finished the first sentence. 

“I understand. They can’t keep secrets at all.” she said, and managed a laugh. “But Haruka knows, doesn’t she?”

“Yeah, she’s known since, uh, Monday I think.” Kiryu said. Had it really been that short of a time?

“Oh.” Ayako replied, like that was surprising, but she didn’t ask any more questions.

“We should get you back. Majima is going to show you and Haruka some make-up stuff, and I don’t want you to miss out.”

 They walked back in comfortable silence, till they could hear the thwack of a baseball bat from the beach. Before they reached the gate, Ayako tugged on his shirt sleeve. 

“Thanks, Uncle Kaz, for trusting me with your secret. You won’t tell Majima about the presents, will you?”

“No. And tell the others if they need help with any of that they can ask me.”

“Oh good. Because Taichi told me about the wrestling mask Majima-san bought, and I thought I could cover the left eye part, but I didn’t want to go in your room. Do you think you could get it for me without him knowing?”

“I’ll look for it while he’s busy with the makeup.” Kiryu said. Majima might not be happy about him rooting through his bag, but Kiryu figured he’d forgive him when he found out the reason. “Are you sure you’re okay?” 

 Ayako nodded. “Yes. I like Majima-san a lot. I hope he visits all the time.”

“Heh, thanks. Me too. Let’s go see what he and Haruka are up to.” Kiryu said. 

 After checking in with the rest of the kids on the beach, they went inside to the girls’ room, where Haruka and Majima were sitting on the floor, laughing together. They both looked over at the same time and smiled. Ayako waved and went to sit next to Haruka. 

“No Riona?” Kiryu asked, “I thought she wanted to watch.”

 Haruka shook her head. “She wanted to play. I told her I’d show her what I learned later.”

 Kiryu sat down next to Majima. On a low table, they’d set out all the makeup they’d bought, in front of their large mirror that was usually hung up. They’d taken it down and leaned it against wall so they could see what they were doing. 

“I thought you would have started.” Ayako said. 

“We got busy talkin’.” Majima said, then looked at Kiryu. “Ya never told me Haruka-chan was so good at gambling.”

 Kiryu nodded. “She has a gift. Thankfully she isn’t interested in that kind of thing.”

 Majima shared a smile with Haruka that made Kiryu suspect that might not be completely true. He made a note to have a talk with her about the dangers of gambling beyond what she’d already seen firsthand. 

“And we’re all good to go?” Majima asked, looking pointedly between Kiryu and Ayako. 

“Yeah. Everything is good.” Kiryu said. 

 Haruka and Ayako shared a smile. They really did act like sisters, and it was gratifying to see. He looked at Majima, who had mischief in his eye. “Did he tell ya how much we used to fight?” he asked Ayako.

“No. Just that um.. you’re happy now.” Ayako said. She looked embarrassed, but not upset or disgusted. Kiryu was so relieved. 

 Majima chuckled. “Yeah. We once fought on the top of the Millennium Tower, which was the tallest building in Kamurocho till I decided to make a bigger one. ‘Course, after that, he took off out here and I didn’t see him for two years, but it was a real good fight.”

“Who won?” Haruka asked. 

“I did,” Kiryu said, “but just barely. Weren’t we supposed to be doing makeup?”

“Yep. Why are you here anyway, Kaz? Want us to doll ya up?”

 The girls laughed. Kiryu shook his head. “No, but I don’t know anything about this. If I learn some basics then maybe I can help you girls with it when Majima’s not here.” 

“Fair enough.” Majima said. “Okay. Here goes.”

 A lecture started. Majima stressed the importance of not going to bed in makeup, and the types of makeup remover that were easy on teenage skin. He then picked up the brushes and told them about proper cleaning and which products they really shouldn’t be sharing. He spoke confidently, and Kiryu didn’t doubt that he’d done this many times over. He only had to redirect him once, when Majima started talking in gross detail about a bad case of pink eye that spread between hostesses who were sharing eyeliner. 

“Now, we’re using this foundation ‘cause it’s the right shade for Haruka. It might not an exact match on you or me, Ayako-chan, but it’ll be pretty close.”

“Are you going to put on makeup too, Majima-san?” Ayako asked, looking curious rather than judgemental.

“Dunno yet. I figured I’d work on each of ya so the other can watch.” Majima said, pulling a handful of products from his pocket and setting them apart from the rest. “But sometimes it’s easier if I show ya on my own face. So, first things first.” 

 Majima launched into another speech, and Kiryu watched, surprised by how many different items were just for around the eyes. Majima alternated adding eyeshadow to each girl as the other watched, explaining what he was doing in a serious but caring way. Kiryu couldn’t help stealing glances at him whenever he could.

 Then they got to the eyeliner, and Majima hesitated. “This is a lot easier when ya can close one eye to look at the other. I can show ya what I do, but it’ll look better on the bad eye, if you girls ain’t too squeamish about that.”

 Ayako shook her head. “Scars don’t bother me.” she said quietly, “When Riona first came here, I was the one who put cream on her burns because the manager didn’t like doing that.”

“You never told me that.” Kiryu said. 

“Um, please don’t tell Riona. She doesn’t know, and I think it would make her sad.” she said, smiling when Kiryu nodded. 

“You’ve always looked after all the little kids, just like Uncle Kaz does.” Haruka said kindly. She turned to Majima. “And the eye scar isn’t as bad as you think it is. I’ve seen a lot worse.”

“I guess you have.” Majima said seriously. He looked between the two of them. “Man, you kids had to grow up fast, huh.” The two girls shrugged at the same time. “Don’t forget to be kids once in a while, alright? You only get so many years before ya get weird looks for running down the street playing tag.”

“Heh, that wouldn’t stop you.” Kiryu said. 

“Nah, but some people care about that shi-uh, stuff. The point is, be a kid while ya can. Let this guy handle the grown up stuff.” He pointed at Kiryu, then himself. “And this sorry excuse for a grown up’ll help too.”

“Thanks, Uncle Majima.” Haruka said. Ayako smiled and said a quiet thank you as well. 

“Okay, so, eyeliner. We got two kinds here. Pencils and liquid.”

 He took off his eyepatch, and explained the difference. After a few minutes, and a demonstration on himself, he carefully applied a thin line of the liquid stuff to Haruka’s upper eyelid. 

“Ah, so it needs a steady hand. Like pin-striping on a car.” Kiryu said, watching closely as Majima extended the line out into a small wing. 

 Haruka opened her eyes and laughed. “Uncle Kaz! I can’t do this with you glaring at me like that.”

“I wasn’t glaring, I was concentrating.” Kiryu said. He looked at Ayako, and decided this was a good opportunity to look for the wrestling mask. “But I’ll give you a minute. I want to check on the other kids.”

“Sure,” Majima said, “it’ll give me a chance to teach some real life lessons. You girls wanna learn how to cheat at mahjong?”

“Yes!” Haruka yelled. 

“There’s that glare again.” Majima said. The three of them laughed, and Kiryu couldn’t help cracking a smile. 

“I’ll be back. Be good.” he said, pointing at Majima before he left. 

 Kiryu shut the door, and heard more laughter as he walked away. He went quickly to his room. There were two outside pockets of Majima’s bag. The right one had the daggers, his phone, and the big bottle of lube. The left pocket thankfully had the mask, so he didn’t have to snoop too much. He took it and stuffed it in his pocket, then went outside. 

 The baseball game was lively, and the kids all looked like they were enjoying themselves. Riona was drawing again, but snapped her notebook shut when he approached. Mitsuo, who was waiting to bat, hid something behind his back when he saw Kiryu. 

“Hi, Uncle Kaz!” he said.

 Kiryu walked up to him. “If that’s one of the presents for Majima-san, Ayako already told me about them. Can I help?”

 Mitsuo grinned and showed Kiryu the brand new baseball he held. “You know how a whole team signs a ball for like, collectors and stuff? I thought we could all sign one, so he’d, I don’t know, remember our names.”

“That’s really thoughtful.” Kiryu said, surprised by just how thoughtful it was. “I might have to ask your advice if I ever want to get Majima-san a present.”

 Mitsuo handed him a black pen. “Will you sign it too?”

“Yeah.” Kiryu said. The baseball was half covered already, so he carefully signed his name as small as he could to give the younger kids more space. “There. This is a great idea.”

 Mitsuo took the baseball back. “Thanks! I bought the baseball, and when I told Koji, he bought a stand for it. It’s in our room, I can show you later.”

“Don’t worry about it. I’m sure Majima-san will show it to me when you give it to him. Let me know if you or the other kids need help, but you have a pretty good handle on this one.”

“I think so too!” Mitsuo said. 

Kiryu talked to the other kids about their presents, but at this point, none of them needed any help, and Riona said that whatever she was working on wasn’t ready to be looked at yet, so Kiryu returned to the house. His steps felt light  He’d told Ayako without any major issues, and the kids were all happy, which made him happy.

 He found Majima crouching outside the closed door of the girls’ room, twirling his eyepatch between his fingers. “Yo, we finished up, and Haruka wanted to try on some clothes for tomorrow. They’ll probably call us back in a minute.”

 Majima stood up, and Kiryu took a close look at his face. “I like the eyeliner. And… eyeshadow?”

“Yep, and some other basics.” Majima said. Kiryu turned his cheek towards the overhead light so he could examine him thoroughly. He must have used a lot of products on his left eyelid, because the jagged scars was barely visible. 

“I see it now. You wear eyeliner a lot, don’t you?” Kiryu said. He couldn’t believe he hadn’t noticed before. 

 Majima shrugged. “Not usually this much, but yeah. Blends in nice with my natural dark circles, but I haven’t done both sides in a long time. Look, Ayako worked on this one.” he shut his eye, and Kiryu touched his chin as he took a closer look.

“You look great.” Kiryu whispered. “So great that- heh, there’s a lot I could say, but I don’t think it’s a good idea right now.”

 They were standing close together, and Kiryu still touched his chin. Majima leaned further in, then froze and pushed him away. Kiryu felt a split-second of confusion till the door behind him slid open, revealing Ayako. “She’s ready.” 

“Come here under the light so I can see you better.” Kiryu said.

Ayako smiled and stepped forward. It wasn’t too much of a change, but Kiryu had a better idea of what to look for. “Your eyelashes look longer, and your eyes look bigger. Interesting.” he said. 

“Interesting?” Ayako asked. 

 Kiryu frowned. Maybe that wasn’t the best compliment. He never knew what to say about the kids’ looks. “You look very pretty Ayako. But you don’t need makeup for that.”

 Ayako turned her head away. “Thanks, Uncle Kaz. Come and see Haruka, she’s waiting.”

 Kiryu followed Ayako and Majima back into the room. Haruka was facing away, looking into the mirror, but turned when the door shut behind them. She smiled. “What do you think?”

 Kiryu froze. If he were any further away, he’d be sure it was a fourteen year old Yumi standing in front of him. Kiryu’s heart wrenched in pain, but pride quickly took its place. He saw nothing of Haruka’s biological father in her, just her mother’s calm but resilient spirit. 

 They were all watching him, but Kiryu didn’t know what to say that wouldn’t make her sad. The smile on her face was already fading. 

 Majima stepped forward. “I like the stripes. This what ya settled on for tomorrow?”

 Haruka looked at her sleeves. She worn the oversized, long-sleeved shirt she’d bought a month ago, with black and red stripes. Haruka usually preferred skirts, but she had on black jeans. “Yeah. I was going to dress up more, but I want to be comfortable for the movie.”

 Kiryu had collected himself enough now. “You look great, Haruka. A little too grown up, but great.”

 That seemed to be enough for her.  “Thanks, Uncle Kaz. I… do I look like her?” she asked, looking guilty for even asking. 

“You do. Almost exactly. She liked stripes too, except at your age she started wearing her hair up a lot. She’d.. be really proud of you.”

 Haruka smiled, a bright shining smile that was all her own. “I hope so.”

 Majima shifted his weight. “I should give ya a moment.” he said, and took a step away. Kiryu grabbed his wrist before he could go any further. 

“No. Stay here.” Kiryu said quickly. “You made this happen, and look how happy they look.”

 Majima stopped, and Kiryu let his wrist go. “It wasn’t much. These kids are a lot easier to manage than hostesses, who didn’t always want advice from the weird eyepatch guy.”

 The girls smiled. “Thanks, eyepatch guy.” Haruka said. “I’ve learned so much already. I never thought, um, I mean, I thought I’d have to teach myself all this stuff and…” she looked overcome with emotion. A second later she ran forward and hugged Majima. “Thank you.”

 Majima was clearly not expecting that. “Anytime, Haruka-chan,” he said softly. “but careful, kiddo, you’ll smudge yer makeup.”

 Kiryu hadn’t considered that this was something that would have such an effect on Haruka. “You did a great job, Nii-san.”

 Majima nodded, and Haruka pulled back. “I should get changed if I’m going to wear this tomorrow.”

“That’s our cue, Uncle Kaz.” Majima said with a chuckle, and turned to leave. Kiryu smiled at the girls, who were examining each others faces. 

 Just before he left, Kiryu discreetly passed the gold mask to Ayako, then followed Majima back to his room. Majima put his own makeup back in the leather pouch where he kept his toothbrush and turned back to Kiryu, who had just finished shutting them inside. 

“That was fun.” he said, but he didn’t look happy. 

“Thank you. That meant a lot to her. To both of them, but especially Haruka.”

 Majima nodded. “How’d it go with Ayako? Didn’t want to embarrass her by askin’.”

“Good. She was more worried that it meant I’d be leaving than anything else.” Kiryu said. He could see Majima’s jaw clench. Was he upset?

“What’d you tell her?”

“That I wasn’t going anywhere, except to go visit you once in a while.” Kiryu said, walking till he was close enough to put his hands on Majima’s shoulders. “What’s wrong.”

 Majima shrugged. “Nothin’. I don’t know. But… shit. I can’t help thinkin’ that if ya hadn’t been dealin’ with all my bullshit when you got released, you might’ve been able to keep your gal alive. Had a real family with her and Haruka.”

“No. I can’t think like that, and neither should you.” Kiryu said. He touched Majima’s chin the way he did earlier, till their eyes met. “I have a lot of regrets about that time, and I’ve spent more than enough time dwelling on it.”

 Kiryu had to close his eyes. He’d never forget Haruka’s distraught face when he woke up in the clinic after his pointless fight with Ryuji Goda. That was the day he knew they had to get away from Kamurocho. “I almost lost everything I had because of that kind of thinking.”

 Kiryu shook his head, as if that could alleviate his guilt, and looked at Majima again. “And anyway, if you hadn’t toughened me up after I got out, I’d be dead a few times over. I had a lot of bullshit to deal with back then, not just yours.”

 Kiryu hugged him. Majima’s hands were on his back, and he felt him take a deep breath. “It’s real funny when ya swear, Kiryu-chan.”

“I know.” Kiryu said, and kissed the top of his shoulder. “And I do have a real family. Here with the kids, and now with you. It wasn’t what I expected when I got out of prison, but nothing is.” Kiryu wished he’d had a chance to think this through beforehand, but he tried his best to explain. “With.. Yumi… there will always be a part of me that loves her. I won’t pretend there isn’t.”

 Majima tried to pull away but Kiryu wouldn’t let him. “But it’s different with you. There’s no competition, or comparison, or anything like that. It’s just different, and it’s… deeper. I’ve never felt a connection like this with anyone. I keep saying we’re supposed to be together, and I mean that. You mean more to me every day.”

“Kaz.” Majima whispered.

“I love you.”

“Yeah.” Majima said. “Love you too, darlin’.”

 Kiryu kissed him, still holding him close, and marvelled at just how much feeling came from the other end of that kiss. Majima’s hands grabbed handfuls of Kiryu’s shirt as his tongue traced his lips. 

 Majima pulled away, and this time Kiryu let him go. “You really know how to make me feel on top of the world. You and yer big speeches.” he said, slapping Kiryu’s shoulder affectionately. “I should find Shiro and recruit some kitchen helpers.”

 Kiryu could not stop staring. The additional makeup enhanced all the features he already loved, but didn’t soften him at all. This wasn’t Goromi, this was Majima in makeup. Interesting. “I think I have a better understanding of cosmetics now.” Kiryu said. “You look like a rock star.”

 Majima grinned. “High praise from a  karaoke king and personal friend of Miracle Johnson. What’d’ya think, Kaz, should we start a band?”

“Heh, yeah,” Kiryu said, “or maybe we should just go and do karaoke again.”

“That’d be a lot easier.” Majima said. “Except if you sing for me, we’d have to pay for the full hour and barricade the door, ‘cause I doubt I could keep my hands off ya.”

 Kiryu grabbed him into another hug. “Sounds perfect.”

Chapter 38: Lost Sisters

 Still in makeup and without the eyepatch, Majima walked over to the beach and asked for Shiro and anyone else who wanted to help with dinner. He and Shiro lead the way back to the kitchen, with Kiryu behind him, flanked by Eri and Taichi. 

 Kiryu liked Italian pasta, and so did Haruka. It was easy, and they could make a lot of it at once, so it became one of their first staples when they’d started living together. If Kiryu could add another recipe to the ones they usually made, that was a win for everyone. 

 Like a real chef, Majima yelled orders and gave everyone tasks. Kiryu handled the boiling water, while Majima did the chopping. Eri and Shiro cracked eggs, and Taichi grated cheese. As a team, they soon had their carbonara cooked with surprising precision. When they were ready, Ayako and Haruka came in to set the table, and Eri ran out to get the rest of the kids.

 They sat down to a satisfying and delicious meal. It took almost five minutes before the kids started talking, which was the highest compliment they could give.

 Majima asked the kids about their weekend plans the same way he had a week ago. A lot of discussion followed about who would go into town, and who would stay and swim, plus a lot of excitement about the wrestling match, which was scheduled for Sunday at 11:00. Majima said he wanted another try at “stabbin’ fish”, and Kiryu agreed that Saturday morning would be best for that. 

 After dinner the kids built sandcastles, and played a game they’d invented that involved throwing a rock in the water, then running the length of the beach. Majima played with them, till he finally ran over to where Kiryu sat with Haruka and Ayako and slid though the sand in front of them into a sitting position. 

“Alright, gals. How’re we doin’? Doesn’t look like either of ya forgot and smeared eyeliner into yer eyes.”

“I almost did a couple of times.” Haruka said.

 Ayako nodded. “Me too.” 

“Yeah, same. I ain’t used to the left side bein’ done.” Majima said, “Weird how the kids either don’t notice or don’t care.”

“They’ve always been like that.” Haruka said. “Ever since we moved here, they’ve all been a lot more accepting than the kids at school.”

 Majima frowned. “Ehh? Need me to handle some non-accepting kids for ya?”

“No. Not anymore.” Haruka said with a smile. 

“So, we were talkin’ earlier,” Majima said, looking at Kiryu, “and we were guessin’ where ya learned how to paint nails. Cause they were sayin’ you were an expert, and it ain’t the same as paintin’ slot cars.”

Kiryu looked at the two girls, “What did you guess?”

“Ayako-chan and I think it was lookin’ after the kids where ya grew up.” Majima said, “Haruka-chan said prison.” 

 Kiryu smiled. “It wasn’t either of those places, but you and Ayako were closest.”

“So, where was it?” Haruka asked. 

“A hospital.” Kiryu paused to look at their confused faces. “Haruka, I’ve told you about Yuko, right?”

 Haruka looked no less confused. Kiryu was surprised. He was sure he would have mentioned her at some point. 

“Well, Nishikiyama Yuko was my sworn brother’s sister.” Kiryu said, “And she was like a little sister to me.”

“Oh, did she grow up at Sunflower too?” Haruka asked. 

“Until she was about eleven or twelve, yeah. She had heart problems from a young age, and they got worse every year. She spent a lot of time at the hospital, and had to have a lot of surgeries. I think she was thirteen when they told us she’d have to stay in the hospital long-term until they could stabilize her heart, which they never did.”

 Kiryu realized he hadn’t talked about this since it happened. Of course Haruka didn’t know. Something about Majima being here made him feel a lot more comfortable sharing these stories. Even the sad ones. 

“She didn’t like being there, but we tried to make sure she was comfortable. One day she was bored and wanted to try nail polish, so I bought her some. By the time I got to her room she was feeling weak and needed my help with it. After that, I painted her nails whenever she asked.”

“That’s really nice of you, Uncle Kaz.” Ayako said. “Did she… die?”

“Yeah, a long time ago. Last time I saw her she was about to have another surgery. It was supposed to be the last one, but I guess it didn’t work out so well. That was back in ‘95.”

“That’s the year you went to prison, right?” Haruka asked. 

“Yeah. From what I heard after I got out, she died a year later, in ‘96.”

“Wait, is that why…? It’s why you took the fall, isn’t it? For the sake of a sick little girl?” Majima asked. His eye was wide as he leaned in, waiting for an answer. Kiryu didn’t see how that mattered to him. It wasn’t that much of a change from the story he already knew. 

“For both of them, yeah. The surgery didn’t have a high success rate, and I wanted to make sure they got to spend as much time together as they could. That wouldn’t have happened if Nishiki had gone to jail.”

“Shit, Kaz.” Majima said. He shook his head, then looked up with such open affection that Kiryu almost had to look away. “Wouldn’t expect anything less from a selfless guy like you.”

“What was she like?” Haruka asked gently. Kiryu was surprised she let Majima get away with swearing. All three of them were looking at him. Kiryu took a breath. He still held a lot of guilt over what had happened. If he’d been faster that night, he could have stopped Nishiki, and together they could’ve… no. He couldn’t dwell on that. 

“She was a sweet girl. A little awkward around new people, but as soon as she was comfortable she was loud, and funny. She was great with the younger kids at the orphanage, and she loved playing pranks on her nurses.” Kiryu smiled. “Eri reminds me of her sometimes. And… she was a good friend of your mother’s.” he said to Haruka. “Yumi was older, but a lot more shy. Yuko helped her be more outgoing. It’s how we all became friends.”

 It didn’t hurt to talk about it as much as he thought it would, and his audience didn’t look upset, just supportive. 

“I’m sorry about your friend, Uncle Kaz,” Ayako said, “and I like hearing your stories. I forget sometimes that you grew up in an orphanage too. At school it feels like we’re the only kids growing up like this.”

“Yeah?” Kiryu asked. He hadn’t considered that. “We’re not the only ones. Lots of people have started out just like us, and have gone on to do great things.”

 Majima nodded, “And it don’t really matter how ya start. It ain’t like everybody who grows up with both parents has a grand ol’ time. Mine didn’t treat me too good, and my father was the biggest f- uh, jerk.” he said, clearly adjusting the last word for the sake of the girls. 

“So was mine.” Haruka said. Kiryu was surprised. She rarely brought up her father. Maybe he should be talking more about these things with them. He chastised himself that it never occurred to him to do so before now. They’d all dealt with so much, and he knew all too well that ignoring how he felt didn’t make it go away. Kiryu also knew he wasn’t the best at dealing with his feelings, but maybe he could make sure the kids didn’t end up the same way. 

 Majima nodded at Haruka. “Well, kiddo, we’re still kickin’, and they can’t bother us ever again, right?” The two of them shared a smile, then Majima let out an exaggerated sigh, “This sure got heavy for beach talk. You kids alright?” The girls nodded. “Good. Come on. I’ll race ya to those rocks way over there. You too, Kaz, get up. On the count of three...”

 They all stood up. Majima counted to two before taking off down the beach, laughing wildly. Kiryu would have called him out for cheating, but that would just waste time. With Majima in the lead, they raced across the sand. Majima leaped over a sandcastle, into a forward roll, and back up without losing any time. Always impressive, Kiryu thought fondly. Majima jumped up on one of the big rocks and shook sand out of his hair as he waited for the rest of them to catch up. 

“What a sprint, Ayako-chan!” Majima said, jumping down from the rock as she reached him. Kiryu was right behind her, and nodded in agreement. Haruka was last, and laughed even though she was out of breath. 

“If this was a dance battle, I’d win.” she said. 

“Oh? Ya think so, huh?” Majima asked, hands on his hips. “We should test that out sometime.”

“Heh, just make sure it’s a no-contact battle.” Kiryu said, “Your dancing can get violent.”

“Ya talkin’ to me or her?” Majima asked, his smug smile at full power.

 Haruka was soon called over to see what Riona was working on, and Izumi wanted Ayako’s help with her sandcastle, which kept getting trampled by the enthusiastic Mame. Kiryu walked back up to one of the logs to have a seat, then lit a cigarette for Majima and himself. From there they had a view of the whole beach, and it was calming to see the kids all having fun. He looked at Majima and felt a pang of guilt for their earlier topic. 

“I hope that wasn’t too much. You just lost a little sister too.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima shrugged. “Shit happens, and it ain’t easy when it happens to someone like her. I got a mountain of regrets where Yasuko’s concerned, but today? Today I was thinkin’ back to her and I playin’ with makeup, and braiding Saejima’s hair while he was tryin’ to sleep.” He chuckled at the memory. “Ayako’s a little bit like her. How she was as a kid, anyway. I didn’t get to know her as a woman, beyond her tellin’ me to fuck off when I managed to track her down every few years.”

 Kiryu wanted to hug him, but instead he touched their knees together. “It wasn’t your fault.”

Majima shook his head, “Some of it sure was, and that’s somethin’ I gotta live with. But bein’ out here, and gettin’ away from the city, it’s helped. It’s helped a lot.” he looked out at the water, “I ain’t gonna say I don’t still love goin’ wild, but… I like who I am out here.”

 Kiryu nodded. “I know what you mean. I think a lot more clearly here. Being happy helps too.”

 Majima smiled. The sun was almost down, but his face was lit up by what was left of the pink and orange sunset. His dark eye shone, as did his silky hair. 

“You’re so beautiful.” Kiryu said, and walked away before Majima could argue or kick him. 

 

 The rest of evening was peaceful, and Kiryu was exhausted when it came time to go to sleep. He laid down on his back as the light was turned off. He heard the soft sound of a shirt hitting the floor, then Majima’s hands were on him as he laid down at his side. 

“It doesn’t get all that cold here, even in the winter,” Kiryu said, “but on cool winter nights around Christmas, I’ll be a lot more comfortable with you here on top of me.”

“It’s my favourite place to be.” Majima said, kissing his left pectoral and squeezing his right. “Prime real estate,”he added, and lifted up the waistband of Kiryu’s sweatpants, “and ooh, what a view!” 

 Kiryu smiled and grabbed his wrist, bringing it to his lips. “The deed’s all yours.”

“Hmm, gonna need a full tour first.” Majima said. “Inspect all the nooks and crannies.”

“We can arrange that.” Kiryu said and sighed. “Today was great.”

 Majima chuckled. “Damn great. Let me know if that desk falls apart, I’ll get ya a new one.”

 Kiryu kissed his hand, rubbing his thumb along each long finger. “I really liked that, and the ice, and everything else we did this morning.”

“We beat your weekly record, didn’t we? Or do I have to haul ya out to the beach right now?”

“That’s kind of tempting.” Kiryu said, but neither of them moved. “I wasn’t keeping track, but yeah, I think we did. I can’t keep my hands off of you. You… belong in my arms.”

 Majima sighed. “I’ll never get over hearin’ ya say stuff like that to me.”

“It’s not too sappy?”

“No, it is, but I’m tired and I’m happy, so I can handle a bit of sap.” Majima said with a yawn. 

 Kiryu kissed his fingers again before letting him have his hand back. Majima placed it on his chest, lazily tracing his muscles. Kiryu took a second to think. What was the best thing to say that was only a little sappy?

“Even though we’ll be apart after Tuesday, we’ll still be partners, and that’s what’s going to make missing you bearable.”

 Majima held him tightly, running his leg overtop of Kiryu’s. “Kaz… you got me speechless.”

“Kiss me then.”

 Majima pulled himself up on his elbow. Kiryu touched his cheek, reminiscent of their first kiss. Majima leaned in and slowly brushed their lips together, warm and electric as always. Kiryu’s hand moved to the back of his head and through his hair as Majima’s tongue met his own. The kiss was soft and strong. No matter how many times they kissed, Kiryu still felt sparks flying. 

 Majima pulled away only slightly. Kiryu could see the reflection of the blue clock-radio light in his eye, and the slight shine of his cheek. Even in the dark he was beautiful. “Christmas with you and the kids sounds like a blast. I’m gonna spoil ‘em all rotten.”

“There’s no need to go overboard. That’ll only make their expectations go up next year.”

“We’ll see. I got what, six months to plan for it?”

 Kiryu chuckled. “Well, just don’t buy anything too early. All their interests could change before then.” He held on tighter and turned them both till Majima was on his back. 

“And you? Ya want anything special for Christmas, Kiryu-chan?”

 Kiryu saw the glint of his teeth in the darkness as Majima smiled up at him. Kiryu leaned down and kissed his neck. “Hmm, I want to wake up next to you. I want to cook a feast with you and the kids, watch them open presents, and… maybe share a cigarette with you in the middle of the night. Something like that.”

 Majima rubbed his back as Kiryu kissed his neck again. “Sounds perfect. You’re gonna get spoiled too, darlin’, so get ready for that.”

 Kiryu ran his hand through Majima’s hair again and peered down at him through the dark. “I’m spoiled already.”

“Fuck I like it here. Makin’ dinner with you and the kids was fun. They’re so enthusiastic.”

“They really like you.” Kiryu said. He was looking forward to watching him receive more presents from the kids.

 Majima chuckled. “I don’t have a favourite kid anymore, I like ‘em all, but that sleep mask is hilarious.”

“It didn’t hurt? It looked like it had a lot of staples.”

“Of course it hurt, but I wasn’t gonna tell her that.” Majima said. They laughed, and Kiryu rolled them back over. Majima settled back in to his spot on Kiryu’s shoulder and yawned. “No messin’ around tomorrow. I’m gonna stab the biggest fish ya ever saw.”

 Kiryu closed his eyes. “We’ll see.”

“You’re doubtin’ me?”

“No, not you. Just the fish. Don’t be disappointed if they don’t show up.”

“Disappointed? I get to slather you in sunscreen, watch you swim, and see all these muscles shine in the sun while you’re holding a sharp object. Ain’t nothin’ disappointing about that, Kaz-chan.”

 Kiryu didn’t know what to say, so he kissed the top of Majima’s head and held him. Majima sighed against his skin, and before long, Kiryu heard the change in his breathing as Majima fell asleep in his arms.

 Kiryu thought about Yuko. Not for the first time, he wondered what Nishiki had told her about that night. Did she die thinking he was a murderer? Had Nishiki turned cold before or after she died? Was he at her side when she passed? There was no one left who had answers to these questions. It hurt to think about, but the hurt was lessened by how much support and love he had in his life now. Kiryu decided to tell Haruka and the kids more happy stories from his childhood, and he promised himself that he’d bring flowers to Yuko’s grave the next time he was in town. 

After a deep breath, Kiryu was able to let go of those thoughts for now. He instead focused on the soft snoring of his partner, which eventually lulled him into a deep, peaceful sleep.

Chapter 39: Swearing At Fish

 Kiryu kissed along the back of Majima’s arm before applying sunscreen. They’d woken up at the usual time, and like the week before, they got ready quietly to keep from waking the kids. Majima sat between his legs in front of him, wearing only his short pink trunks, applying sunscreen to both their legs.

“This is the life, Kaz.” Majima said in a low voice as Kiryu took his other arm and did the same. Once finished with his arms, he pulled Majima’s back to his chest and held him. 

“Yeah.” Kiryu whispered. He kissed the outer shell of his ear, then turned Majima’s head so he could get a better look. “Is that a scar or from a piercing?”

 Majima reached up and felt his upper ear. “This one and this one were piercings,” he said, tapping two nearly invisible marks, then he felt again and kept his finger near a white line. “This one’s a piercing that got ripped out. It got infected and it hurt enough to get rid of the rest for a while, but I had ‘em out too long. They all closed up except the ones in my lobes.”

 Kiryu kissed his ear again. “I would’ve liked to see that.”

 Majima sighed. “They looked badass, but the boss wasn’t a fan. Said I looked like.. well, it don’t matter now. After he tore it out it looked gross as hell, needed two stitches. I’m glad ya didn’t see that.”

 Kiryu’s grit his teeth at the thought of Shimano, and all the suffering he’d caused. He closed his arms around Majima again, resting his chin on his shoulder. “If I could get my hands on him now I’d tear him in half.”

 Majima snorted. “Someday you can come with me for my annual tradition of spittin’ on his grave.”

“After everything he did, he deserves a lot worse.” Kiryu said, his voice low. 

 Majima leaned more weight back against him and squeezed his thigh. “You’re giving’ me goosebumps, Kazzy. Have I ever told ya how fuckin’ sexy you sound when you’re pissed off?”

 Kiryu took a deep, calming breath. “No, well, maybe, but I probably thought you were joking.”

“I’ve never joked about how sexy you are.” Majima said, tilting his head back against Kiryu’s shoulder. 

“Heh, that’s such a lie.” Kiryu said. Majima chuckled, and Kiryu turned him again so he could kiss the side of his mouth. They stared into each others eyes for a moment, then Majima brought his hand up to Kiryu’s face and slapped him, leaving a big gob of sunscreen on his cheek.

 After the shock wore off, Kiryu laughed, doing his best to keep his voice down for the sake of the sleeping children. Majima grinned at him. Kiryu pushed him forward and smeared the sunscreen from his face onto the hannya’s forehead. With his face against Majima’s skin, he could feel him shake from laughter. He went back to what he was going, rubbing the sunscreen into Majima’s back, massaging the muscles as best he could as he worked.  

“It always looks like the hannya’s glaring right through me.” Kiryu murmured as he slathered on more sunscreen.

“Then she’s doin’ her job.” Majima replied.“Years back I heard that in tiger territory, people wear masks on the back of their heads ‘cause tigers hate attackin’ people who’re lookin’ their way. Dunno if there’s any truth to that, but I like the idea.”

“Well, as much as I can from out here, I’ll watch your back too.” Kiryu said, then he paused. “Hmm. Just remembered my dream last night.”

“Was I in it?”

“Yeah, but… your hair was different. I was cooking, trying to teach you how to make a complicated bento, but you weren’t paying attention. You kept groping me and making me laugh.”

 Majima chuckled. “Sounds fun.”

“We were in my last apartment, but it was also an old farmhouse. Then Haruka came home and we all ate together, but she was a lot older than she is. That’s about all I can remember.”

“I don’t think I’ve dreamed at all, not for days.” Majima said. “I’m gonna jinx it, but I’ve never slept as good as I have here. Not in my life.”

“I love sleeping with you,” Kiryu said, and before Majima could make a joke, he added, “and you can take that any way you want.”

 Majima didn’t miss a beat. “You can take me any way ya want, Kiryu-chan.”

 Kiryu held him close again. He was reluctant to let him go, but he knew they had better odds of catching something the earlier they got going. “Come on, Goro, the fish are waiting for us.”

 They finished with the sunscreen and gathered what they needed. After quietly opening the front door, they walked over and set up a spot on the sand with a blanket and beach umbrella, passing a cigarette back and forth as they did. 

 There were a few fishing boats in the distance, but the sea was calm, and the sand was already hot underfoot. Majima spun his spear in his hand as the water shone behind him from the morning sun. He turned to look at Kiryu, looking strong and tough. Well, he would have looked tough if he weren’t wearing those goggles. 

 Kiryu dodged the kick Majima launched at him when he caught him trying not to laugh. Muttering to himself, Majima stomped out into the water. Kiryu watched him go, and waited till the edge of his trunks touched the water, then ran after him. Kiryu tackled him into the water, mindful of the sharp objects they were both holding. 

“Don’t get touchy.” Kiryu said, holding Majima around the waist just underneath the water’s surface. “It’s only funny ‘cause they’re cute.”

 Kiryu could see a hint of a smile on Majima’s face. “If I didn’t want to get at those fish so bad, I’d kick your ass, Kiryu-chan.”

“First take a deep breath.” Kiryu replied, submerging them both after Majima took his breath. Under the water, Kiryu pressed their mouths together. Majima caressed his cheek for a moment, then opened his mouth and blew out all the air he had into Kiryu’s face. He jerked away from all the bubbles and back up. Majima followed, but Kiryu could hear him laughing before he broke the surface. The laughter continued afterwards as Majima spat and gasped for air. 

“That’s what ya get, Kazzy!” Majima said, sounding delighted. 

“You’re so annoying.” Kiryu said. “My beautiful, bug-eyed-” He was splashed before he could finish that sentence, which he expected. “Okay, okay. Let’s fish.”

 Majima squeezed his arm, then swam forward. Once they were deep enough, Kiryu readied his spear, and Majima followed his lead, watching him closely. With a combination of hand gestures and body language, they swam together till they came upon a school of large fish.

 Kiryu touched Majima’s shoulder and guided him forward. Majima had to surface to breathe, while Kiryu kept watch. When he dipped back down, Kiryu nodded at him and Majima took aim. He threw the spear hard. He missed, and the fish scattered, causing Majima to yell and swim to the surface.

“Damn it!” he said. “I was this close, Kaz. Tell me ya saw that.”

“Yeah.” Kiryu said. “Don’t worry about it. Sometimes I’m out here for hours and get nothing.”

“That ain’t what’s happenin’ today.” Majima said. He retrieved the spear and they pushed forward again till they found another group of fish, smaller, but still worth the attempt. They both threw this this time, and both of them missed. 

“Fuck!” Majima yelled as soon as they surfaced again. He pulled the goggles up. “I can do this.”

“Remember last week, when you told me this was supposed to be fun?” Kiryu said. 

“Right.” Majima replied, but he still looked angry. 

“We don’t need any fish. The fridge is full of the food you bought us. If we catch something it’s just a bonus.” Kiryu said. He pulled Majima by the arm till they were able to stand with the water up to their shoulders. 

 Majima shrugged. “I fuckin’ hate bein’ bad at somethin’ in front of you.”

“I know. We’ve bowled together, remember?” 

 Majima grimaced, but there was amusement in his eye. “I told ya, that was an off day.”

“Heh, remember when you threw the ball to hard it bounced into the next lane and got a strike?” Kiryu said. “You were so mad.”

“Course I was mad! Ya wouldn’t let me count it towards my score!”

“Rules are rules. And I remember having a big enough lead that it wouldn’t have mattered.”

“Rub it in, why don’t ya?” Majima said with a smile. The visible tension in his shoulders disappeared as he took a breath. “I want a rematch. Is there a bowlin’ alley anywhere around here?”

 Kiryu smiled as Majima’s foot ran along his leg. “Yeah. It’s only a few stops on the train. I’ve been there once for a school event.”

“Hmm, maybe next time I’m here we could take the kids?”

“They’d like that, and I’d feel a lot more secure riding the train with all of them if you were with us.” Kiryu said. He liked that Majima was including them in his future plans.

 Majima rubbed his eye. “It’s a date. I’ll have a better idea of when I can get back here once I’m in my office. I got a ton of planning to do to figure all this shit out.”

 Kiryu nodded. “We’ll be here. I wouldn’t tell them about the bowling idea yet. They’d want to know exactly how many days till they can go.”

“Yeah.” Majima said, looking deep in thought. “Are ya okay with me poppin’ in for a couple days at a time here and there. There might be times I can’t stay for long, but I coulf get out for a day or two.”

“I’ll take anything I can get.” Kiryu said. He reached out and touched Majima’s arm under the water. “And I wasn’t joking about calling you every day.”

 Majima ran his hand down Kiryu’s arm till their hands locked together. “You’d better. Every damn day.” He squeezed Kiryu’s hand, then let it go and put the googles back on. “Alright. I’m less pissed. Let’s go again.”

“I love you.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima looked taken aback, then he laughed. “Ya keep hittin’ me with that when I least expect it. Throws me for a loop.”

“I can’t help it. You smile at me and it’s all I want to say.”

“Kiryu-chan, you’re killin’ me.” he said, but he was still smiling. Majima dove under the water, swimming forward, but not before grabbing Kiryu’s ass on his way. Kiryu laughed and joined him. 

 Despite Majima’s insistence that he’d calmed down, the next two attempts brought the same frustrations. Kiryu knew he shouldn’t find it cute, but the way Majima swore and yelled at the fish reminded him of all the times in Kamurocho when Majima had insisted they play a game together, and stormed off in a huff when he lost. It was funny then, and it was even more endearing now.

“Breathe, Goro.” Kiryu said. “Stay there, I want to try something.”

 They’d drifted back inland, back to where they could stand with the water just at their necks. They stood close to each other, but to any prying eyes, they could easily pass as two friends just talking. Kiryu handed over his spear, and with a firm touch, ran his hand down Majima’s chest to the hem of his shorts. 

“Kiryu-chan?” Majima asked. He’d been glowering at the ocean, but his head snapped to Kiryu. Even with the goggles, Kiryu could see his surprise. 

“You need to relax, Nii-san.” Kiryu said. 

 His hand lowered even further, and Majima let out what sounded like a nervous laugh. “This water ain’t all that warm, Kaz.”

“Relax.” Kiryu repeated. He took a deep breath and dove under. He didn’t have much of a plan, but he swam sideways around Majima, curling around him. His hands touched his thighs and reached between his legs to cup the front of the pink trunks. Kiryu heard a giddy laugh, warped by the water, and felt a pulse of arousal under his hand. He leaned in and rubbed his face against the shorts, mouthing over the front. Majima stayed still for a few moments, then lurched back. Kiryu stayed there for a second, before he heard talking. Still underwater, he swam a little further away. 

“Yep, we’re good. Thanks, kiddo.” Majima called as Kiryu poked his head out of the water. At the shore, Haruka waved at him. Kiryu waved back, then she jogged back to the house. 

“She wanted to know if we’d had breakfast.” Majima said, snickering as Kiryu moved back towards him. He pulled his goggles off and rubbed the pink lines around his eyes. 

“Sorry about that.” Kiryu said. 

“Don’t ever apologize for gettin’ friendly, but if the kids are up, let’s get outta here. I’ve had it with these dumbass fish.” He swam forward again to give Kiryu his spear. Majima touched his shoulder. “Nothin’ like a good squeeze from my Kiryu-chan to put me in a better mood.”

“Heh, that’s all it takes, huh?” Kiryu said. “That’s good to know.” 

“That and what’s goin’ on right in front of me. You’re walkin’ out of the water like a model. I don’t know what you’re sellin’ but I need it.”

Kiryu shook water out of his hair. “I’m just walking.”

“Nothin’ ya do is ever just anything.” Majima said. “Not to me.”

 Kiryu knew if he called Majima out for being sappy he’d get mad, but he didn’t know what else to say. He chose silence, and smiled at him instead. A full, open mouthed smile. Majima, whose mood had now shifted from angry to playful, clutched his heart and fell backwards with a laugh, his back slapping hard against the shallow water. 

 Kiryu chuckled and offered his hand to get him back up. “Do you regret that?”

“No.” Majima replied, but he rubbed his back as they walked towards their beach towels, “I’d put myself through a lot worse if it kept that smile on your face.”

“Well, don’t.”

 They dried off, and were soon joined by the kids. Taichi was taking Shiro and Eri into town, and they stopped to say goodbye before they left for the train. Majima asked what they were going to do, and at least three distinct emotions flashed over Taichi’s face before he turned to the other two. 

“We’re going to get gelato.” Shiro said.

“We are?” Eri asked.

“Yeah, gelato!” Taichi said loudly, and lead the two younger kids away.

 Majima turned to Kiryu, “Should I ask?”

 Kiryu knew that Majima was too observant not to suspect anything, and would only ask more questions if Kiryu tried to act oblivious. He chose his words carefully. “No. You’ll see in a day or two I think.”

“They know they don’t have to do anything for me right?”

 Haruka had arrived on the beach with Koji. She carried a stack of beach towels, Koji held a large beach ball, and was wearing Haruka’s straw hat. “It’s too late for that, Uncle Majima.” Haruka said in a loud, exaggerated whisper. 

“Hey, I ain’t complainin’.” Majima said. Haruka had also brought their little radio, which she placed down near where they were sitting. She only looked behind them briefly, but it was enough for Majima to turn around. Riona was sitting a little ways up the beach to their left with her notebook. She hid her face behind it when she saw them looking. 

“You’re all conspiring against me, aren’t ya?” Majima said with a laugh. 

 Koji sat down next to Haruka and gave her the hat back. “Not against you, for you.” he said. “Um… is it just Haruka who gets to call you Uncle Majima?” he added timidly. 

 Majima just smiled. “Go for it, and that goes for the rest of ya too “

“Okay.” Koji said. “So, Uncle Majima. Did you ever get the guy to took your eye?”

“Koji!” said Kiryu and Haruka almost at the time. 

“I was just asking! I’m sorry!” Koji said, immediately in a panic. 

“He doesn’t want to talk about that, Koji. This isn’t good manners.” Kiryu said sternly, even though it was clear Majima was trying not to laugh. 

“It’s okay, kid. Uncle Kaz ain’t wrong, but it’s okay.” Majima said, patting Koji on the shoulder. “And no, I was… stuck in a place where I couldn’t track that guy down for years. By the time I could, they told me he was already dead.”

 Koji nodded. “Sorry. I was just wondering. ‘Cause if that happened to me, I’d be so mad.”

 Kiryu nodded, pleased that at least the rudeness came from a place of curiosity and care. 

“Yeah, I was mad. But it only happened because I was a yakuza, so, as an uncle, here’s yer lesson. No joinin’ the yakuza. Ever. Got it?”

“Okay.”

“And no tattoos till you’re… I dunno, twenty-five? Thirty? Even if it’s just ‘cause ya don’t want to get kicked outta public baths. I once saw this big American guy freak out about not bein’ allowed into a classy onsen. I wasn’t gonna get involved, but I wanted to see the ink.” Majima said. He pointed to his bicep, “the guy had a big slice of pizza on his arm. Got real mad at me for laughin’.”

“But you were allowed in at the classy onsen?” Haruka asked, eyeing his tattoos. 

 Majima’s smile was mischievous. “Let’s say, the manager made an exception for me and my boys ‘cause I was so nice to him.”

 The kids didn’t look like they bought that answer, but Majima stood up before they could ask him anything else. He reached down and turned up the radio. A pop song was just starting that Kiryu recognized as one of Haruka’s favourite idols. Majima clapped his hands together, then pointed to Haruka. “C’mon, Haruka-chan. Let’s see what ya got.”

 He started moving, dancing that absurd dance that Kiryu used to think was tailor-made to embarrass him, thankfully without the usual pelvic thrusts. Haruka was only too happy to dance, and she sang along as she danced to the idol’s stage routine. Kiryu and Koji cheered them on. By the end of the song, Majima had sat down to finish watching Haruka. 

 They all clapped for her, including Mitsuo and Izumi, who had come over to watch. Haruka sat back down and laughed. 

“Ya know, it wouldn’t take all that much to get you to idol level.” Majima said. “A couple years of lessons and you’d shine brighter than any of ‘em.”

 Haruka smiled and thanked him, but Kiryu’s stomach twisted. He didn’t have the money for those kinds of lessons, and that wasn’t going to change anytime soon. He tried not to think about that, but it wasn’t easy. 

“I actually found a channel online that posts free dance lessons. Riona and I do them sometimes.” Haruka said, glancing at Kiryu like she could see exactly what he was thinking.

“Right on. Keep it up.” Majima said. “I’m gettin’ too hot again. Who’s comin’ with me?”

 Everyone but Riona, still hiding behind her notebook, went out to swim. Ayako had been floating out in the water by herself, but looked happy for the company. Kiryu stayed close to Izumi, and helped her practice treading water, as the rest of them played with the beach ball. 

 After a while, the other kids returned, and they had an early lunch. Before they could go back outside, they all sat down to reapply sunscreen. Kiryu was able to take Haruka aside. 

“Did you talk to Nozomi?” Kiryu asked. He knew she was nervous about the movie that night, even if she wasn’t showing it. 

 Haruka nodded. “Yes, and she’s going to be there. I think even if she wasn’t going, I’d still go.”

“I’m happy to hear that.” Kiryu said. Haruka was braver than he was at that age, at least when it came to going out with people she wasn’t already close with. “We’re planning on an early dinner, so we’ll have plenty of time to get you down there.”

“Thank you.” Haruka said, “It’s really nice that you’re doing this for me.”

“It’s not a problem. I think we’re going to play darts.” Kiryu said. 

 Haruka hid a laugh behind her hand. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you smile so much, Uncle Kaz.”

“Uh, yeah, I guess so.” Kiryu said. Talking about this with Haruka would probably always be awkward, but he was still so relieved that she wasn’t upset by it. He should say something to her, rather than just standing there awkwardly. “It means a lot to me that you’re okay with this.”

 Haruka nodded, and they walked back to the others, parting ways at the bathroom as it was Haruka’s turn to bathe. 

 Kiryu took a deep breath and walked back to where the kids were getting ready to go back outside. His heart melted at the sight. Majima was right in the middle of all of them, laughing like he didn’t have a care in the world. Kiryu gladly joined the group.

Chapter 40: One Last Practice

 It was mid-afternoon. Kiryu and Majima walked into the front yard with Taichi, who was jumping with excitement. “Are you going to practice now?” he asked. 

“Yeah, but just a couple of moves.” Kiryu said. “We want your input, but we don’t want to give away the whole match.”

“I can’t wait! Are we going to have the Ryudo family over?”

 Kiryu looked at Majima, who shrugged. “I hadn’t thought of that. But if we’re all okay with that then I can call them later today.”

“Go for it. Tell ‘em they’re in for a real good show.” Majima said. 

 On the beach, they discussed the move they’d chosen ahead of time and squared up to show it to Taichi. Majima threw a punch, Kiryu dodged low and hoisted him up across his shoulders behind his head so Majima was on his side, parallel to the ground. Holding him by the hips and shoulders, Kiryu sent him backwards down to the sand. 

“Whoa!” Taichi said. “I didn’t know you could do that, Uncle Kaz!”

“Not bad, huh?” Majima said as he stood up. “But what do ya think? Should we make it flashier?”

 Taichi scrunched up his face, deep in thought. “What if, when Uncle Kaz lets go of you, you like, barrel roll on the air before you land?”

“Could work.” Majima said, looking over at Kiryu. 

“If I bend my knees and sort of toss you up, you’d have more air time.” Kiryu said, miming the motion as he spoke. 

“Yeah! Try that.” Taichi said. “And um, maybe, Uncle Kaz, you could spin him around in a circle before you let him go?”

 They nodded, and started again. Kiryu tried to look behind him to catch what Majima did, but by Taichi’s yell of approval, he knew it had gone better. They did the move twice more, faster each time, before moving on to the next one. 

 After twenty minutes of practice, they stopped so they’d have enough time to get ready. Taichi was thrilled, and more excited for the match than ever. Majima went inside to take a shower, and Kiryu motioned to Taichi to sit down at the outside table.

“Did you get everything you and Shiro needed for Monday?” Kiryu asked. 

“Yeah, and everything on Haruka-chan’s list too. Then we took Eri for gelato and I even paid for that because Eri used her allowance already.”

“That was really nice of you.” Kiryu said. Eri had been Taichi’s shadow lately, and the boy took his big brother role very seriously. “Taichi, we were talking, and we have a favour to ask.”

 “It it a wrestling favour?” he asked with a laugh  

“Actually, it is. The match needs a referee, and we wanted to ask you-”

“Yes! I’ll be the ref!” Taichi said, leaping to his feet. “I’ll be a really good ref too. I can announce you when you enter the ring and everything!”

“Heh, okay good.”

“Can I tell everybody else?”

“Go ahead.” Kiryu said, and Taichi ran off to find the other kids. 

 Back inside the house, Kiryu made his call to the Ryudo family office. Mikio picked up the phone, and although Nakahara was out visiting his cousin with Saki this weekend, Mikio said that he’d come by himself. He sounded more confident over the phone than the last time Kiryu had seen him, and while he didn’t mention it, he hoped that confidence carried through to the next day. 

 Kiryu quickly showered, then went to the kitchen with Ayako and Mitsuo to start on dinner, while Majima helped Haruka with her hair and makeup. Kiryu flicked on the radio they kept in the kitchen, and sang along with the music, which made the kids laugh. 

 When dinner was ready, Haruka came in to help carry plates over. Her hair was twisted up in an elegant way, and the makeup was noticeable without being flashy or inappropriate for her age.

“You’re beautiful, Haruka.” Kiryu said. It didn’t hurt this time to see her looking so grown-up and so like her mother. It just filled him with pride to see her looking so happy. 

Haruka looked a little choked up, but after thanking him, they brought the plates out and sat down with everyone. 

“Uncle Kaz, this is the best curry you’ve ever made!” Taichi said. 

“Yeah, it’s the best!” Eri added. The other kids nodded along and kept eating. 

 Majima winked at him. He had eyeliner on, and wore his snake eyepatch. Kiryu took a bite, and had to agree with the kids. He’d learned a lot since Majima had arrived, and it hadn’t taken too many changes to make a better tasting meal. “Thank Ayako and Mitsuo too. They were a big help.”

 The kids mumbled their thanks, but we’re too focused on their food to say much more.

 After dinner, Kiryu gathered the kids together to go over the usual rules for when he left them alone. Majima, who had turned his phone on for the first time in a couple of days, was taking a call in Kiryu’s room, loudly barking orders. 

“Haruka will have my cell.” Kiryu told Ayako and Taichi. “I’ve left Majima’s number next to the phone. If there’s an emergency, you know what to do. Try to get some homework done, and don’t stay up too late.”

 Majima emerged from Kiryu’s room with his phone in hand. “We good to go?”

“Yeah. Everything all right?”

 “Yep. Nothing that couldn’t’ve waited till I got back.” Majima replied. “Haruka-chan? Ready to go?”

 Haruka rushed over, putting her lipgloss into her purse as she approached. “Ready.”

 The kids waved at them and shouted goodbyes as the two men and Haruka walked off towards the train station. 

“That was cute. Almost makes me wish we could take ‘em to the bar with us.” Majima said. 

“I don’t think any of them can hold their liquor.” Kiryu replied. 

 Majima laughed, and Haruka groaned. “You both really like bad jokes.” 

“Why else d’ya think he’s let me stay this long.” Majima said. 

 Haruka smiled up at him. “Probably the cooking.”

 Majima cackled. “I gotta take ya out to Osaka to see some real comedians. You’d fit right in.”

“That would be fun.” Haruka said. “Uncle Majima, have you ever been to that restaurant with the giant crab on the outside? We went once and it was so good!”

“Not since way before you were born, kid. I don’t think I’d mind that, so long as I got you two with me.”

 Kiryu was surprised to hear Majima say that, but it made him happy. One more thing in the future to look forward to, not only for him, but for Haruka. The three of them continued to talk about restaurants they liked till they reached the train. 

 

Chapter 41: One-Eyed Darts

 The front of the monorail was Haruka’s favourite place to ride. She kept a smile on her face, but wrung her hands together as they got close to their stop.

 Kiryu checked his watch. “We’re pretty early. Should we walk around first?”

“Sure.” Haruka said. 

“I wanna go to that place we got my mask.” Majima said.

 They left the train and headed for the tourist shops. Haruka remained quiet and nervous, but perked up a little with their jokes, which Kiryu didn’t consider to be that bad. Majima found a pair of gold shorts. They were shiny, and longer than the ones Kiryu had.

“I think these’ll match. Couldn’t find my mask this morning to check. Ya wouldn’t know anything about that, would ya?” Majima asked with a smirk. 

“I took it out on behalf of someone. It looks like a good match to me.” Kiryu said. 

“Me too.” Haruka agreed. 

“Ehh? So everybody’s in the know except me?”

 Haruka smiled. “Yeah, but only until tomorrow. You’ll like it.” 

 Majima bought the shorts and a pair of knee pads. There was a rack of candy and chocolates near the cash register, and he insisted Haruka pick something to sneak into the theatre in her purse. That also put a smile on her face. 

“We should start heading over.” Kiryu said after checking the time. Haruka took a deep breath as they headed back out to the street. Kiryu took his phone out of his pocket and tried to remember how to turn the ringer off as they walked. Was it under settings? 

 He was concentrating hard, and was surprised when he felt a gloved hand on his shoulder guide him away from walking right into a kiosk on the sidewalk. Haruka and Majima laughed, and Kiryu swallowed his pride and smiled back. He handed the phone to Haruka. 

“How do you-” he started, but within a few button clicks Haruka had turned the sound and vibration off. “Thanks. Majima’s number is in the contacts. We won’t be any further away than Aqua Sky, so call us when you’re ready and we’ll come get you.”

“Okay, thank you. Both of you.” Haruka said. They stopped near the open area near the theatre. 

“Remember what I taught ya, right?” Majima said, touching the heel of his hand. 

 Haruka touched her own hand in the same way. “Eyes, throat, groin, and call for backup.”

“Hah, that’s my girl.” Majima said proudly. 

“What?” Kiryu asked, looking sternly at both of them. 

 Majima shrugged. “Basic self-defence target points everybody should know, especially if they’re gonna go see a movie with boys.”

“They’re my friends, Uncle Kaz, it won’t even come up.” Haruka said quickly, “Uncle Majima was just trying to help.” 

 She stood in front of Majima as if to defend him, but Kiryu couldn’t be mad at either of them. “Right. I’m sure you won’t need any of that, but… yeah. We won’t be far.” He reached out to pat her head, but after they both warned him against messing up her hair, he settled for touching her shoulder. 

“Oh, there’s Nozomi.” Haruka said, waving at her friend who was walking from the opposite direction. 

“Have fun, Haruka.” Kiryu said. She nodded at them, then walked away to meet her friend. Kiryu turned and quickly walked away with his hands in his pockets. 

 Majima jogged to catch him. “Yo, what’s the rush?”

“She doesn’t need me staring at her when she’s with her friends.”

“Did she tell ya that, ‘cause that ain’t what I just saw.” Majima said. He sounded annoyed, but Kiryu didn’t understand why. “All I saw was a girl taking a last look back, only to look disappointed when you were already walking away.”

 Kiryu stopped dead. That was the last thing he wanted. He looked back but Haruka was already gone. “Do you really think that’s what she saw? I just wanted to give her space.”

 Majima’s expression softened. “She knows ya care about her, Kaz. I’m just telling’ ya what it looked like.”

 Kiryu nodded and started walking again. He thought he was doing right by her. Majima was still watching him. “Hey, that coulda just been me seein’ things. I got a thing about you walkin’ away. Don’t mean she does.”

 Kiryu slowed as they continued north towards the bar. “A thing?”

 Majima shrugged. “Not a thing, just.. not something I like.”

 Kiryu mulled that over. Obviously he’d walked away from Majima a few times, but that was when they were rivals, or because he had to, or.. hmm. “Well, we’re walking together now, aren’t we?” Kiryu asked. Majima nodded and scratched the back of his head under his eyepatch strap. “Let’s keep it that way.” he added. 

 Majima nodded, and they continued walking. Kiryu looked over again. Things didn’t feel completely settled. If they were alone he’d just grab Majima and kiss him to make sure he was happy again. Instead, he briefly nudged his shoulder. “Do you want to talk about it?”

 Majima stopped and looked at him seriously. “I really, really… don’t.” he said and laughed. Kiryu relaxed. “Come on, Kazzy. Didn’t I say I’d get ya a good, pricey whiskey?”

“Wasn’t that supposed to be after the wrestling?” Kiryu asked. 

“Maybe, but a lot’s changed since we had that little talk, hasn’t it? “

“Heh, yeah. Everything changed.”

“So I don’t need an excuse to getcha something’ nice. I’m thinkin’ we start with the good stuff and then get a cocktail or two, then switch to beers.” Majima said.

 Kiryu could see the neon Aqua Sky sign in the distance, and walked a little faster. “Remember we only have a couple of hours, but I’m happy to follow your lead.”

“Damn. Things have changed.” Majima said. 

“I’ve followed you before. A few times back in the early days.”

“And ya always looked sooo thrilled about it.”

 He knew Majima was being sarcastic, but it still annoyed him. “What else am I doing wrong?” he couldn’t help asking. 

 Majima hit his shoulder. “Aw, Kaz, not a damn thing. What are ya thinkin’? Darts or pool?”

“Darts. We played pool last time.”

“Did I tell ya I like that shirt?” Majima asked, sounding careful. Kiryu looked down at himself. It was a dark red, button-down shirt with short sleeves. There was nothing special about it, but the compliment made him smile anyway. 

“Yours looks good too. It reminds me of your jacket.” he said, comfortable once more.

 Majima chuckled. “I didn’t think ya liked my jacket.” His linen shirt was a light beige, similar in colour to snakeskin, and just sheer enough that he could pick out the tattoos if he looked hard enough. The sleeves were rolled up, and it was tucked into black dress pants. He wore a black tank top underneath it, but the neckline was just low enough to show off the edges of his tattoos. He looked good. Tough and sexy.

“It grew on me. The snakeskin jacket is how I picture you.” Kiryu said. Aqua Sky was only one floor up, but Kiryu hit the button for the elevator anyway. “Or, how I pictured you before this visit.”

 Majima stepped into the elevator. “And now?”

 Kiryu smiled and hit the button for the second floor. “Now I can picture you without it, or anything else.”

 Majima’s wild laugh echoed off the walls. As soon as the door closed, Kiryu turned and grabbed him. Majima had the same idea and their mouths crashed together painfully hard as a gloved hand pulled on his neck. The plastic bag of wrestling equipment that Majima was carrying hit Kiryu’s back. For six blissful seconds they kissed, tongues battling and arms wrenching each other closer, then the button dinged. The elevator doors opened to the two men standing side-by-side without touching, one trying not to smile, the other grinning maniacally. 

 They walked into the bar and towards the dart boards. There was a young couple using one, while an old man and a hostess were at the other. Kiryu pointed at two open seats at the bar.

“Majima-san! I hoped you’d come back.” the young bartender said excitedly as they sat down. He’d clearly made an impression. “Look, I’ve been practicing!”

 The bartender flipped a bottle of vodka and twirled it around his head. “Not too shabby, barkeep.” Majima said. “Whatcha got in the way of high end whiskey? The real top shelf stuff.”

 The bartender looked a little disappointed. Kiryu figured it wasn’t as easy to do fancy moves with a valuable whiskey bottle. 

“Uh, well, these are the most expensive ones we have.” he said, pulling down three bottles, “but honestly, I still don’t know a lot about them. Let me get my boss.”

“Nah, it’s fine. Give us both a Laphroaig 30.” He turned to Kiryu, “I know you’re an ‘on the rocks’ guy, but this stuff’s better neat. They age it in sherry casks, so it goes down real smooth for an aged whiskey.”

 Kiryu nodded, and glanced back at the dart boards. By the scores on both displays, he figured it wouldn’t be too long before one of them was free. The bar was half-full, but most of the people were at the back near the pool table. Ambient electronic music played, but it wasn’t as loud by the bar. 

 Majima chatted with the bartender as he poured the drinks, which turned quickly into a lecture about the way he was pouring. 

“You must have a lot of experience with drinks.” he said to Majima.

“Yep. It’s a hobby instead of a job now, and that’s a helluva lot more fun.” Majima replied, although he looked at Kiryu as he spoke.

“Here you are. Please let me know if you need anything.” the bartender said, bowing stiffly and walking away to help another customer.  

 When he was out of earshot, Majima held up his glass and shot Kiryu a sly look. “He’s got a lot to learn, but this is almost a double, so I ain’t complainin’.”

 They clinked glasses together and drank. It was powerful, and burned like a good whiskey without being unpleasantly harsh. “Oh ho, that’s great.”

 Majima winked at him and took another sip. “I knew you’d like it.” 

 It felt strange being in public like this. In love, but out together as friends. He thought it would bother him, and maybe later it would, but for now, Kiryu was just happy to be anywhere with him. Majima leaned in and lowered his voice. 

“I gotta tell ya this.” he said, and Kiryu did his best to listen without staring at his lips. “I’m gettin’ Haruka ready, and we’re talkin’ about makeup, and I say somethin’ ‘bout how it’s sweet that she isn’t weirded out by mine, and she says, ‘Uncle Majima, you aren’t the first man I’ve seen with makeup on.’, all matter-of-factly. So I ask her who, and she goes, ‘Daigo of course!’” Majima paused to laugh. Kiryu smiled. Haruka met Daigo just before he took over. “I had to bite my tongue to keep from laughin’. I’m so used to him in a suit that I forgot he used to be all emo and shit.”

“Heh, yeah. That all started when he was thirteen till he was about seventeen. I guess it was called goth back then. His father really hated it. He tried to get me to talk to him about it so many times.”

“Did ya?” Majima said, his smile fading at the mention of the elder Dojima. 

“No, I just told him I did. Daigo’s style wasn’t hurting anyone, and he was still being respectful to me and his mother. I think it was getting him into fights at school be he never admitted it to me.” Kiryu smiled, remembering the sullen thirteen year old in black lipstick whose facade melted away when Kiryu brought him along to Pocket Circuit or the arcade. “When I found him the year after I got out, I wasn’t expecting to see him in that big cross necklace he used to wear.”

“Hah! So after doin’ hard time, he reverted? Ain’t that interesting. Maybe it’s mood based.” Majima took another drink, “Hell, if that’s the case, he’s in for another phase of it. I don’t think he’s got a lot of friends right now.”

“Hmm.” Kiryu said. “I told you I’d try to call him once in a while. I’ll get started on that this week.”

“Good plan. Maybe I’ll join him this time. Get some new piercings and a mesh shirt or somethin’.” he looked at Kiryu, and looked pleased when he didn’t disagree. “It ain’t all bad. Daigo-chan’s taken a real shine to Saejima. I heard something about them plannin’ a fishing trip or something.”

 Kiryu nodded, trying to picture Majima in a mesh shirt. He looked at his drink which was already almost empty, “I should probably be nursing this.”

“Shoot it back if ya want. We got time for a few more.”

“Heh, thanks, but I’m happy to switch to something cheaper.”

 Majima leaned forward and squinted at the bottles behind the bar. “Sure. Lemme find somethin’ that works for when I’m not around to spend my cash on ya.”

“I’m not completely ignorant about whiskey, you know.” Kiryu said. When Majima shot him a look he chuckled, “but I’m happy to hear your suggestions.”

 While Majima looked one way, Kiryu looked the other. “The board’s free.” he said, touching Majima’s shoulder as he stood up. Majima downed his drink, and shook his head at the strong taste. 

“Get us set up, Kaz. I’ll order another round.”

 Kiryu emptied his own glass and left it at the bar. He inputted their names and took enough darts for both of them, placing Majima’s on a table right behind the board.

 Majima came over and put two glasses down on the table, along with his bag. “So. Kiryu-chan,” he said seriously. “I got this idea.”

 There was mischief in his eye that made Kiryu feel apprehensive. “Okay?”

 Majima pulled a second eyepatch out of his pocket. “If you’re up for it, I thought we could even the playin’ field.”

“Hmm..” Kiryu thought for a moment. What could he say? His first thought was to refuse, because he didn’t want people giving him weird looks, but it’s not like that was something Majima could ever avoid. 

“It’s clean.” Majima said, holding out the patch. He looked like he was daring Kiryu to say no, which in itself made Kiryu want to agree to it. 

“Sure. Why not?” Kiryu said, even if he was feeling a little uncomfortable. “I might need a hand.”

 Majima looked delighted. Kiryu took the eyepatch and put it over his left eye, and with a little guidance and help with positioning, he had it secured. The second he did he heard the click of Majima’s phone camera. “Well? How do I look?”

“Like some kinda cyclops. The hell ya wearin’ that for? Are you a pirate, or what?” Majima barked a laugh, and showed Kiryu the photo he’d taken. 

“Are those the most common ones you hear?”

“Real original, huh?” Majima said with a laugh. “Have a drink, I wanna see what ya think of this one. Same brand, but a ten year instead of a thirty.”

 Kiryu reached for the glass Majima had put on the table, his hand brushed against it briefly as he slightly misjudged the distance before he took hold. It was only a slight motion, but Majima, who was watching him like a hawk, chuckled. “Not so easy, is it?”

 Kiryu looked up, and had to turn to his left, as Majima had darted into his blind spot. “Heh, no. Not so easy.”

“Just for one game.” Majima said, taking a sip, then picking up a dart. “Unless ya win.”

 Kiryu drank as Majima threw his darts. He couldn’t help looking around, but everyone else in the bar was too preoccupied to pay attention to the two men in eyepatches. When he turned back, Majima had disappeared into his blind spot again, and startled him when he clapped a hand on his arm. 

“What’d ya think?” he asked. 

“Of the drink or your score, because they’re both pretty good.” he held up his glass, “this is more smoky and rough around the edges, but that’s more my type. I like how it goes down.”

 Majima looked at him for a moment, as if he was making sure Kiryu knew what he was implying, then he smiled and lowered his voice. “It ain’t fair sayin’ stuff like that, Kiryu-chan. Not with this many people around.”

“What?” Kiryu asked, feigning ignorance, “I’m just saying how much I love my drink.”

 Majima’s eye shone as he held out a dart. “Yer turn, Kaz.”

 Kiryu took the dart and stood opposite the board. He knew he wasn’t going to be as good as he usually was, but he was too competitive not to try his best. He aimed for the bullseye and let the dart fly. It landed on a two. “Hmm, that is harder.”

“Wait till ya get to the urinal.” Majima said. 

“Heh, for the sake of the cleaning staff, I’ll use both eyes for that.” Kiryu replied. His next dart landed near the bottom of the board. 

“Ooh, a three. You ain’t doin’ that on purpose, are ya?”

 Kiryu frowned and picked up his third dart. “I never lose on purpose.”

“Ooh, he’s serious now. C’mon, Kiryu-chan, show that dart board who’s boss.”

 He threw the third dart, which landed at the outer edge of the board. Kiryu grit his teeth, as if the board was the one at fault.

“Double twos!” Majima said with a laugh. “Ya still play better than I did after I first lost the eye.”

 Kiryu’s annoyance with himself faded. He retrieved his darts and took a drink. “Aiming is easier than throwing. It must have taken a lot of practice.”

“Yep. I was never a darts champ, that’s Saejima, but after a couple of years I ended up better than when I had depth perception.”

“This would take a lot of getting used to.” Kiryu said, looking around the room with only his right eye. “Does the world ever look less… flat?”

“No… well, kind of. Shit, I’d’ve had a better answer for ya about a decade and a half ago. I’m too used to it now. But yeah, I eventually got a better sense of where things were, and more importantly, I got better at hiding when I couldn’t tell.”

As Majima threw his darts, Kiryu watched him carefully. Two twenties and a bullseye. “Impressive.”

“I was aiming for the triple for those twenties.” Majima said.

“I was just thinking about how many times I’ve seen you catch a tanto with your teeth.”

“Now that took practice.” Majima said as he pulled his darts out and went back to their table. He hopped up onto a chair and grabbed his drink. 

“I’m surprised you still have a tongue.”

 Majima looked like he was about to make a dirty joke. Kiryu shook his head before he could speak, which made them both smile at each other. “It’s weird seein’ ya in an eyepatch.”

“These questions aren’t making you uncomfortable, are they?”

 Majima took a sip and leaned back in his chair, legs spread wide. “Do I look uncomfortable?”

 Kiryu looked him up and down. Majima looked so at ease, so self-assured. “No, but I can’t always tell. You’re good at hiding what you’re feeling.”

“I learned how to do that pretty young. Till I hit my teens, I was actually a pretty quiet kid.”

 Kiryu turned back to the board, took aim and threw. The dart hit the seventeen, right between the two and three. “I can’t picture that. What changed?”

”Got sick of bein’ pushed around, got angry instead.”

 Kiryu finished throwing the other two darts. Poor aim again but at least the darts were still hitting the board. When he looked back at Majima he looked deep in thought. 

“If you’re gonna be askin’ me tough questions, I should get to do the same.”

 Kiryu nodded. “Okay.”

 Majima looked at him again, still thinking. “Ya sure? I’m havin’ fun here, Kaz, and I don’t wanna bring the mood down. We should have, I don’t know, a safe word or somethin’.”

“A conversational safe word?” Kiryu asked with a chuckle. 

“Yeah. Even just a nope. Not a no, but a nope. Then we both move on to talkin’ about something lighter, no questions asked.”

“Sounds fair.” Kiryu said as Majima aimed. Two bullseyes and another twenty. There was no catching his score, but Kiryu picked up his darts to finish the game anyway. “Are you thinking about what to ask me, or are you waiting on me to tell you?”

 Majima chuckled. “Just tryna narrow it down.” 

 He waited till Kiryu threw his last darts. Again, his score was dismal, but he was happy to have at least hit the board. 

“Not bad, Kaz. Now take that off.” Majima said, stepping close enough so only he could hear, “Covering even one of those puppy dog eyes is a tragedy. Like boarding up an art gallery.”

 Kiryu rubbed his left eye and handed Majima the eyepatch, which he stuffed in his back pocket. Kiryu lowered his voice to almost a whisper, “I feel the same way when you’re wearing a shirt.

“Shut up and get yer darts.” Majima said, looking away as he grinned. “Let’s go again. A real game this time.”

“Yeah.”

 Majima sat back down and took a drink. “So… are you named after Kazama?”

 Kiryu paused. He had said hard questions, and that wasn’t an easy one. 

“Too much?” Majima asked. 

“No, it’s fine, just, nobody’s asked me that since he died. My answer before would’ve been what he told me, which was that it was a coincidence.” Kiryu paused to take a sip of his nearly empty drink. “But now that I know… oh, I’m not sure if you know Kazama’s reason for funding Sunflower.”

 Majima nodded. “Shimano used to taunt him about it.”

“Tch, I wonder if I was the only one in the dark.” Kiryu said, and finished off his drink. “Now that I know that, I can’t say for sure whether it’s a coincidence or not. I don’t know what kind of connection my parents might have had with the Tojo, or why Kazama had to kill them, but… it feels too close to be a total coincidence.”

“Damn.”

 Kiryu nodded. “When I finally got the nerve to ask Kashiwagi-san, it was the day he was gunned down. Now I’ll never know for sure.”

 He looked up to see Majima looking at him thoughtfully. “HQ has boxes and boxes of old records, all locked up tight in a secret room. The last time I asked to take a look in there I was denied, but I got a lot more sway now. I could get Nishida to look into it. The guy sifts through paperwork like nobody’s business.”

“No, that’s okay.”

“Let me know if you change yer mind.” Majima said and shrugged. “That was a big one. Think of somethin’ nasty to ask me and I’ll get us another drink.”

“I should get this round.” 

“Nah, you can get me a beer later. What’d ya want? Another whiskey? Somethin’ lighter like a highball? Tequila sunrise?”

“What’s in a tequila sunrise?”

“Orange juice and pomegranate syrup. Sweet and on the acidy side. They’re easy to make and they look real fancy. We used to make a killing with ‘em back at Sunshine.”

“Yeah?” Kiryu asked. He liked listening to him, and Majima looked just as happy to talk.

“The girls liked ‘em ‘cause they were easy to dilute, and the men liked ‘em ‘cause they were big with rock stars at the time. I haven’t had one in forever.”

“Sounds good.”

 Kiryu smiled as Majima walked back to the bar. It was the sort of drink Nishiki would order at a club, while Kiryu stubbornly stayed with his familiar whiskey. He didn’t feel as resistant to try new things as he had back then. Maybe it was his age, or what he’d learned from trying to keep the kids from being too picky, but the most likely reason was Majima himself.  

 When Kiryu looked over, Majima was behind the bar, holding a spoon in the face of the bartender, who was hanging on his every word. Kiryu couldn’t help watching him too. A large strand of hair had fallen over his eyepatch, and Kiryu felt a strong urge to go over there push it away from his face. He still couldn’t believe they were out like this together. Even if he couldn’t be as close as he wanted to be, he did get to take him home at the end of the night, and wake up with him the next morning. 

 Soon, Majima returned with two drinks with an orange to red gradient, and an elaborately cut orange peel garnish. “Kid didn’t know how to make it so I had to show him. Here.” he passed the drink into Kiryu’s hand, then tilted his head to the side. “What?”

“You make trying new things fun.” Kiryu said.

 Majima shot him a warm smile. “Don’t say that till ya taste it.” 

 They both drank, and Kiryu had to laugh. “I didn’t expect it to be so strong.”

“It ain’t usually. I taught the kid how to make it right, but if I get behind the bar, of course I’m gonna sneak some extra tequila in there for us. I call it the cost of my expertise. Too much?”

“Heh, not for me.” Kiryu said, examining the shifting colours in the drink as it mixed with the ice. He nodded seriously. “I can see why it was popular. It’s a drink worthy of rock stars.”

“You’re fuckin’ adorable.” Majima said,  watching him from behind his own glass. He looked pleased, as pleased as Kiryu felt. “So, did ya think of a question or are we starting another game first?”

“Uh yeah.” Kiryu said. “How did you meet Saejima?”

 Majima nodded and picked up his darts. “That’s an easy question, or it is now that he’s out. Our bosses knew each other, so we were bound to meet at some point. I think I saw him once or twice before I actually met him, but the short version is, we met in a bar in the champion’s district, a nasty little place I used to go that never checked I.D. I tried to beat him up, and he almost pulled my arm off.”

“I can believe that. How old were you?”

“Sixteen? Yeah, sixteen. It was right after my first tattoo session because it hurt like hell when he knocked me down.” Majima said, smiling at the memory before he aimed the dart he held. “‘Bout a week after that we were pals.”

“Your first session was at sixteen?”

“Yep. First year I joined up. Didn’t think there was anything in the world better than bein’ part of the Tojo, and I wanted somethin’ on my back as fast as possible. It took a bit of convincing.” Majima said, then he let out a loud “hah!” when his third dart hit the bullseye. 

“I get that. I wanted mine done as soon as I could. I remember other guys talking about how much it hurt, but nobody told me about the itching.”

“Ain’t that the truth.”

 They switched places and Kiryu took aim. The game continued. They drank, smoked, and talked. Majima had some wild stories about his past, and Kiryu was happy to listen. Even though they weren’t touching, it was easy to forget than there was anyone else in the bar. 

 Four games, and a few more drinks later, including one the bartender recommended which was a shot of cinnamon whiskey dropped into a Tauriner. Kiryu was feeling loose and happy. He’d been told in the past that it was hard tell when he was drunk because he just became quieter than usual, but that was the opposite of was happening now. 

 While he definitely wasn’t wildly drunk, Kiryu was talking more than he normally would. Majima seemed delighted with everything he had to say, even when he went on a long tangent about Pocket Circuit. Maybe he too was just also feeling that elation that came with strong drinks and good company, but he never looked bored or uninterested. Majima stood next to their table, grinning as Kiryu told one of his own wild stories.

“… and then the whole wall falls down, and there’s six or seven men in the other side, all shirtless and wearing diapers.”  

 Majima grabbed the side of the table as he laughed. “No fuckin’ way! Gondawara?”

“You know him?”

 Majima shook his head. “I met him a couple of times ‘bout a decade ago. Respectable, stand-up guy back then, but there were rumours he was into some weird shit. The Florist told me about the baby stuff a year or two ago, but I thought he was messin’ with me.”

“He was pretty open about it when I met him.”

 Majima cackled, “Good fer him, I guess. Did ya run outta there?”

“I tried. I told them I wasn’t into… that, but I offended him, so his baby-men attacked. I had to fight them all off at once.”

 Majima let out another shrill laugh. “Aw shit, that’s funny. I wish I could’ve seen it.”

 Kiryu shook his head. “I wish I could forget it. Some of them were wearing bonnets, and one hit me in the face with a rattle.”

“Stop, Kiryu-chan, I’m gonna cry.” Majima said, doubling over with laughter. 

 Kiryu looked around. A couple of people were looking at them, but it didn’t matter. Majima’s laugh made him happy, even if it was louder than the music in the bar. 

“Shit.” Majima said, wiping his eye. “Still, there’s no place like Kamurocho.”

“I guess not.” Kiryu said, but his attention was turned elsewhere. 

 Over by the door was a man, who froze when he saw them, and ran back out the door. He was a little too far away for Kiryu to tell if he was the man that had caused trouble for them last week, but it did concern him. 

“Who was that? Same guy as last time?” Majima asked, upright and alert again. 

“Maybe. There might be trouble waiting for us outside.”

“You say that like it’s a bad thing. I could go for some trouble.” Majima said, as if he was deciding on another drink. 

 Kiryu scowled. Why couldn’t these punks ever learn? From beside him, Majima scoffed. “Don’t give me that look.”

“What look? I’m not even looking at you.” Kiryu said, eyes still on the door in case the man returned. 

“The disapproving look. Like you don’t want me to handle it my way?”

 Kiryu did look then. Majima looked angry. His cheeks were flushed, either from his laughing fit or how much they’d been drinking. “That’s not what I was thinking.” Kiryu said. 

“Cause I ain’t gone soft, and I ain’t gonna stop fightin’, Kiryu-chan.” Majima grumbled, shaking his head, “I knew this was happenin’. You forgot who I am, didn’t cha?”

 His dialect was suddenly so heavy it was almost hard to understand. Kiryu sighed. “Slow down. I looked at a door. That’s all.” he said calmly. Majima blinked at him, looking frazzled, embarrassed. “I’m going to get you some water. Just… sit down, Goro.”

 Majima’s jaw clenched, but he sat down. Kiryu went to the bar and got two large glasses for them. When he returned, Majima wouldn’t look at him. 

 After a minute, Kiryu had to speak up again. “Are we going to talk about this?”

“Nothin’ to say. I got my back up over nothin’.” Majima said.

“Do you really think I don’t want you fighting?” Kiryu asked. 

“I don’t know.” Majima said. Maybe he’d just had too much. He was acting childish, but Kiryu didn’t want to say that to his face. He wasn’t sure what else he could say. He’d somehow hit a nerve without doing anything. If they were at home he’d grab him and hold him close.

“Drink the water, then we’ll go take care of whatever’s out there, if there’s even anything out there.”

 Majima looked up at him then. “Kaz…” he said, sounding apologetic. 

 Kiryu smiled. “Drink.” he insisted. It wasn’t a big deal, really, but it bothered him. This wasn’t the best place to have a serious discussion anyway. He took a drink, then checked his watch. Haruka’s movie would probably be over in the next twenty minutes. “We should settle up.”

“Already done.” Majima said. 

“Then we should get some air.” Kiryu said. “You want to go get some gelato or something?”

 Majima took a long drink of water, then finally smiled. “Yeah. Or something.”

 Kiryu’s instinct was to hug him, and almost reached out to do so. He stopped himself and instead clapped a hand on Majima’s shoulder, like a friend would. Majima stood up and stretched. 

“Okay, I’m good. Can we forget that shitty little outburst?” he asked. 

“Sure.” Kiryu said, even though he still felt uneasy. Did Majima really think he didn’t know the kind of person he was?

 He cracked his knuckles, then put the darts back where they belonged. They downed the rest of the water, and Majima waved goodbye to the bartender, who was busy performing the tricks Majima had taught him to a group of giggling young women.

 They got in the elevator. Just before the door closed a couple of foreign tourists  ran inside with them, talking loudly in another language. Majima’s glare looked like it could burn a hole in the back of their heads. Kiryu stood close enough to him that he could place a hand on the small of Majima’s back without being noticed. He could feel the tension melt under his touch, and Majima leaned his shoulder against him, looking apologetic. Kiryu rubbed his hand against his back. 

 The doors opened at street level, and Majima cracked his neck as they stepped outside. The night air was cool and refreshing. The tourists, oblivious to what was going on around them, walked off towards the train. In the other direction, five men stood waiting. The two on each side were armed with a crowbar and a bat respectively. The leader, who wore either the same green shirt as last week or one similar, stood in the middle with his arms crossed, flanked by the other two, unarmed men. The one on the right was even taller than Kiryu and Majima, the other was short but built like a sumo wrestler. 

 An imposing group for the average man to come across, but Kiryu’s first thought was the same as Majima’s.

“Tch, only five?” Majima asked loudly as the group advanced on them. Kiryu was as unconcerned as Majima. He’d taken on much harder fights on his own, with a lot more drinks in him.  

“You’re pretty cocky for an old fuck.” said the leader in the green shirt, walking up to them, the tall man by his side. “You’re going to pay for taking my tanto.”

 Majima yawned loudly. “If you’re gonna pick another fight, I hope you’re gonna stay on yer feet longer than last time. That was downright embarrassing.”

“Don’t talk like that to my cousin.” the tall man said. He looked a little older than the rest, maybe late twenties, and in probably the best shape out of all of them. Majima was unfazed. Kiryu glared at the group, but stayed silent. He wanted to get on with the inevitable fight, but Majima wasn’t done taunting these men. 

“Ooh, sorry,” Majima said, “must be real tough bein’ related to an ugly dumbass like this.”

 The tall man stepped in close and poked Majima’s chest. “You’re one to talk, big nose!”

 Kiryu saw red.

 Distantly, Majima laughed, but Kiryu barely heard him. A second later the tall man flew straight back, bowling down the man holding the bat as he fell. Kiryu pulled his fist back, and stood at the ready in a fighting stance. A tiger drop might have been an extreme reaction to an insult, but it was too late to worry about that. The bat rolled forward till Majima stopped it under his shoe. 

 Everyone went quiet, stunned into silence. Kiryu looked at his partner. Majima was slack jawed, but looked thrilled. 

“I know you, I know exactly who you are.” Kiryu said to him, “Don’t forget who I am either.”

 Majima nodded at him with that dazzling smile. A smile just for him. Kiryu had to look away. Now wasn’t the time to let his guard down. The man with the crowbar was on the phone, but snapped it shut when he saw four more men run up to the group to back them up.

 The green-shirted leader was red-faced and furious. “I’m gonna kill you both!” he yelled.

 Majima shot a look at Kiryu, and he knew exactly what he was thinking. The magic words. “You heard him!” Majima said loudly to the civilians who had started to gather. “This guy just said he’s gonna kill us. We are defending our lives.”

 A smile tugged at Kiryu’s mouth, despite his efforts to scowl. “Seventy-five percent.”

“Pfft, if it takes that much.” Majima said, picking up the bat and dropping his bag just behind them.

 They had no more time to talk, as the leader had finally recovered from the shock of watching his cousin catch air. “Get them!” he screamed.

 The men tried to surround them, but Majima spun into action before they could. The wooden bat thwacked loudly against the crowbar three times before it clattered loudly against the pavement. 

 Majima, aware of his growing audience, twirled the bat and jumped forward, goading his opponents by spinning around them and laughing as they ran into each other. Kiryu had a hard time not watching him, but he had his own batch of idiots to deal with. 

 The short, wide man tried to ram him, but Kiryu sidestepped and slammed his fist against his ribs, then into the barrel of his chest. The man barely moved, so Kiryu continued, another punch, then an uppercut. Finally the man was knocked off balance, so Kiryu could kick him backwards, then pivot just in time to catch the fist of a smaller man who tried to punch him. Kiryu grabbed his shirt, then kicked him away.

 When he was able to look back at Majima, he saw him wielding both the bat and the crowbar. He met Kiryu’s gaze, and his wild, wide-eyed grimace turned into a delighted smile. Majima ran towards him, and made a hand gesture that Kiryu knew from their wrestling practices. He leaned forward and Majima rolled over his back and kicked the leader in the stomach with the edge of his pointed shoe, then knocked him back with the bat. Kiryu straightened up and in unison, they kicked another approaching assailant. 

 One of the onlookers whooped and clapped, which made Majima laugh again. Fighting side-by-side felt natural, fun. It was as if they were made to compliment each other. 

 Even amid the surrounding chaos, Kiryu remembered what Majima had said about their bosses, and how they might have kept them apart if they saw how good the two of them were together. They would have been right, Kiryu thought as he threw another punch, standing back to back with his sparring partner. He felt unstoppable, and stronger than ever.

 They knocked the last man down, and the onlookers cheered. Majima took a stage bow and dropped his weapons to the ground, picking up his bag in the same motion. “Thank you! Remember, folks, these goons attacked first, and if the coppers ask, ya didn’t get a good look at either of us.”

“No, sir!” An older lady yelled in agreement. Kiryu recognized her as a shop owner who used to be friendly with Rikiya. Kiryu nodded at her, then looked at Majima, who grinned as the crowd chattered with excited laughter. 

Suddenly, the smile was gone as he looked just past Kiryu. Kiryu whipped his head around to see the leader in the green shirt, who was back on his feet with a desperate expression and a bloody nose. He saw him pull the pistol out of his jacket, almost in slow motion. 

 Before the gun was fully raised, Majima’s hand moved lightning fast, and threw. A dagger with a wooden hilt appeared right where the leader’s shoulder met his torso. He dropped the gun and clutched at the side of the wound with his other hand, letting out a long scream as his face contorted in pain. A few people also yelled, but their shock and anger weren’t towards Kiryu and Majima. Cell phones were out, and Kiryu could hear the older woman talking on her phone about a group of young brutes that tried to attack two older men outside the bar. 

 Majima looked at Kiryu, then picked up his bag which he’d let fall when he pulled the dagger out of his pocket. “We should get outta here.”

 Kiryu nodded, but Majima wasn’t quite done. They walked towards the bleeding man as his tall cousin knelt beside him. He looked like he was debating whether or not to pull the knife out. “Why did you get a gun? We’re going back home tomorrow, you stupid idiot.” he said. The leader only grunted in response.

 As Majima passed he drew the wooden sheath from his pocket and dropped it to the ground by the leader’s head. “There. Ya got your knife back. I hope you learned yer lesson this time, ‘cause if ya get close to either of us again, my tanto lands right in yer throat. That’s a promise.”

 The cousin nodded vigorously and apologized. Kiryu touched Majima’s shoulder, and they hurried in the opposite direction than the approaching sirens.

When they were far enough away, Kiryu led them down through a series of back alley behind closed shops and office buildings, still moving quickly to burn off the adrenaline. It was dark, and Kiryu found a corner so dark he could barely see, which was exactly what he wanted. He turned around and pulled Majima into a hug. 

“Thank you.” Kiryu whispered. “You might’ve just saved my life. Again.”

 Majima’s arms tightened around him, and he sighed. “Don’t mention it. That was a damn good time.”

 Kiryu couldn’t disagree. “Fighting next to you is so…”

“Hot?” Majima said into his ear. 

“Really hot.” Kiryu said, his mouth against Majima’s neck, “I can’t wait to get you home.”

 There was a noise, and Majima leapt away. Kiryu smiled at his consideration. The source of the noise, a large black cat, appeared at his feet. 

“Way to spoil the moment, little guy.” Majima said in a low voice, crouching down to pet the cat’s head. He looked up at Kiryu as the cat rubbed against his legs, then he laughed and tapped his nose. “You defended my honour, Kazzy.”

 Kiryu frowned. “That guy was a fool. Your nose is perfect.”

“Aw hell, Kaz, I don’t give a shit about that chump’s opinion. I was just happy it wasn’t another boring eye joke.” He stood up and stretched. “Where to now? Ya still want gelato?”

“Hmm… I could actually go for a burger.” 

Majima nodded. “Let’s go.” 

Chapter 42: On the Beach

 The alleyways were dark, quiet, and empty. While they could, Kiryu revelled in the feeling of walking with Majima on his arm. He clung to Kiryu’s bicep with a wide smile that was only visible anytime they stepped too far out of the shadows. A cigarette hung loosely between Kiryu’s lips, and he kept the arm that wasn’t flexing under Majima’s touch at his side with his hand in his pocket. The adrenaline had faded, but he was still left with an energized body, and a head pleasantly swimming from a night of good drinks. 

“Only thing wrong with that fight was that you kept yer shirt on.” Majima murmured. He reached up and stole the cigarette from Kiryu’s lips and brought it to his own. 

“I thought about it,” Kiryu said, “but those lowlifes didn’t deserve to see our tattoos.”

 Majima chuckled, and held out the cigarette. Kiryu took a drag, his lips against Majima’s fingers, before Majima took his fingers and the smoke away. “Still, a good brawl. You were fucking amazing, Kaz.”

“So were you.” Kiryu said and sighed. “I feel… fucking amazing.”

 Majima laughed softly. “Yeah.”

 Even walking slowly, they soon ran out of back alleys. Just before they did, Kiryu stomped out the cigarette they’d been sharing and made sure it was dark enough to get away with a kiss. Majima felt burning hot, and Kiryu felt that electric magnetism that made it tempting to linger in the quiet little corner he’d found. But it was too big a risk, so he reluctantly let Majima go and smoothed down his hair from where his hand and ruffled it. 

“We should stop at the M Store and grab a couple more beers to drink on the beach.” Kiryu said as they stepped back onto the brighter sidewalk.

“Not too many. Fightin’ drunk is fun, but fightin’ hungover is hell. I gotta be at my best to impress the little ones.” Majima replied. “But a drink or two on the beach, with you… I think I could handle that.” 

 The look Majima was giving him made him feel like a love-struck teenager. “I’m sure we can figure out something to do other than drinking when we get there.” Kiryu said. 

“I got a few ideas.”

 They looked at each other and laughed. They were both walking with their hands in their pockets. Majima looked just as happy as he felt, and both of them snuck glances at each other as they walked.

“I’m buying the burgers.” Kiryu said firmly as he looked at the neon Smile Burger sign across the street. 

“I ain’t that hungry, but if ya get a set I’ll steal some of yer fries.” Majima replied. 

“I’ll get a large fries then.” Kiryu said.

 They’d just ordered when Majima’s phone rang. He smiled at the display, then passed it over. “Ooh, Kiryu-chan’s callin’ me. Wonder what he wants?”

 Kiryu shook his head and answered the phone. “Haruka?”

“Hi, Uncle Kaz! The movie’s over, but everybody’s going to get some ice cream at Blue Seal. Would, um, would it be okay if I went too?  It wouldn’t take too long.”

 Kiryu smiled. If it wasn’t going well, she probably wouldn’t be asking. “Yeah, take your time. We just got to Smile Burger. When you’re done why don’t you come meet us here. We’ll be upstairs.”

“Really? Thank you! I’ll see you soon.”

 Kiryu he handed the phone back to Majima, then went to find some ketchup. 

“She okay?” Majima asked. 

“It sounded that way. She’s going with them for ice cream.”

“Good for Haruka-chan. She ain’t gonna be far, is she?”

“No, just across the street.”

 Kiryu collected his tray and led the way up to the second floor of the restaurant. He picked a table against the windows, and pointed out the ice cream place as they sat down. A teenage couple sat against the adjacent wall, but were too engrossed in each others company to notice Kiryu and Majima. 

 Kiryu motioned to them. “I think I was about that age the last time I brought a date to a Smile Burger.”

“Helluva date, Kaz-chan. I keep thinkin’ of that guy flyin’ through the air.” Majima said. He swiped a fry off Kiryu’s plate and smiled, “That was about as romantic as it gets. I’m still all tingly.”

“You sure that’s not all the whiskey?” Kiryu replied, turning his attention to his burger. 

“No. It’s all you.” 

 Kiryu looked up as Majima helped himself to his iced tea. His expression was playful, and for a second he wondered if they should try sneaking off to another dark corner, but something caught Majima’s eye out the window, and he leaned towards it. 

“Hey, look.”

 On the street below, walking towards the gelato place, was a group of teenagers. Kiryu could see Haruka’s striped shirt under the street light. They were too far away to see her expression, but she was right in the centre of the group.

“Don’t look so concerned, Kaz. I’m sure she’s havin’ a good time.”

“I hope so.”

 Majima grabbed another fry as Kiryu took a bite of his burger. “If it was you down there I’d be bangin’ on the glass, maybe show ya the full moon.”

“Thanks for restraining yourself.”

“Of course. It’s no fun embarrassing her.”

 Kiryu smiled and let their knees knock together under the small table. Majima was staring at him. He’d been stared at like this so many times over the years. How could he have not known that Majima had feelings for him? 

“Ya know that girl of yours? The one out in Tokyo?” Majima asked casually.

“Heh, you mean the blonde hostess with the long legs?” 

“That’s the one.” Majima said with a smirk, “She’s head over fuckin’ heels for ya.”

 Kiryu chuckled. “Lucky me.” No one was in earshot, but he was happy to play the game. “I feel the same way. Next time you see her, tell her I’m completely in love with her.”

“Lucky her.”

 They held eye contact, and Kiryu did feel about as lucky as a man could get. After a long moment, Majima looked down. “Don’t let yer burger get cold.”

“Oh.” Kiryu said, and picked up his half eaten burger. It wasn’t often he forgot about food when it was right in front of him. 

 They both ate in comfortable silence, watching the people below walk by. Kiryu still felt elated after the drinks and the fight, and every time he looked at Majima he could feel the same delight radiating off of him.

 Soon, the burger was gone. Majima was still picking at his fries, his head propped up by his hand. Kiryu saw a large group emerge from under the Blue Seal sign. “She’s on her way.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima had sunk down into the chair, but sat back upright and grabbed his phone. He poked at it for a minute, then from the stairwell, they heard Haruka’s laugh.

“Hey boss!” Majima said loudly as she appeared. The other couple had left and they were the only three on the floor. 

“This is really funny.” she said, holding out Kiryu’s phone to him. It displayed the photo Majima had taken of Kiryu wearing the eyepatch. Haruka looked between them, and her smile disappeared. “You were fighting?”

“Haw?” Majima’s eyebrows rose. “What makes ya say that?”

“Your knuckles are all red,” she said, pointing at Kiryu’s hands, then she pointed towards Majima’s legs, “and there’s blood on your shoe.”

“Oops.” Majima said sheepishly, grabbing a napkin and disappearing under the table.  “Good eye, kiddo.”

“We weren’t fighting each other, we just had to teach a lesson to some guys.” Kiryu said as she sat down next to him. She nodded and seemed satisfied with that explaination. “How was the movie?”

“It was good. The violence was pretty unrealistic, but I had a good time. And everybody was really nice, so Nozomi didn’t even have to worry.”

“Good.” Majima said, sitting upright again. “And look at that, not a hair outta place.” 

 Haruka smiled and touched her hair. “Reiko asked me where I got my lip gloss, and Nozomi wants me to come over to her house so we can try out new hairstyles like this one together.”

 Kiryu was relieved that she’d had fun, and was happy she was able to talk about hair and makeup like an average fourteen year old. He’d have to thank Majima again when they were alone. Doing it now might embarrass her and they were all in too good a mood for him to risk changing that. 

 They left Smile Burger, and after stopping at the convenience store for beer, a few snacks for Sunday, and a steamed bun for Haruka, they headed north. They made it onto the train without any interruptions, and after two stops, they were lucky enough to have an entire monorail car to themselves.

 The three of them sat on a long row of seats facing sideways, with Kiryu in the middle.  After a minute, Haruka let her head rest on his shoulder. Majima saw her do it, and with a laugh, did the same on his other shoulder. After a moment’s hesitation, Kiryu took both their hands in his own, and they sat together peacefully till they arrived at their stop. 

 

 When they got home, the house was dark, and Kiryu was pleased to see that there weren’t any toys left out, and everyone was asleep. He was coat he’d bought some extra snacks for his babysitters. Majima went to his room, and said that he’d be right back. Haruka whispered “thank you” as she hugged Kiryu goodnight, then disappeared towards the bathroom after Majima reminded her to remove her makeup.

 Kiryu found one of the beach blankets and went outside to grab the big umbrella. Majima met him in the yard holding a towel and the Poppo bag, which he’d emptied of everything but the beer. 

 They shared a smile and walked out to the beach. Together, they set up the umbrella and blanket the same way they had that morning, ensuring the umbrella was angled so they were concealed behind it. They sat down, shoulder to shoulder and opened two of the beers. After the first drink Majima leaned in and kissed his left cheek. 

“Damn that was a good time.” Majima said, resting his head back on Kiryu’s shoulder. 

 Kiryu switched his beer to his other hand so he could put his arm around Majima’s waist. “Best date I’ve ever had. By far.”

 Majima sighed. Kiryu could feel his breath just before Majima pressed his lips to his neck. “You were fantastic.” he whispered. “I love watchin’ ya fight.”

 Kiryu pulled him closer, looking out at the reflection of the waning moon on the water. Majima’s hand touched his chest. He unbuttoned Kiryu’s shirt and let his hand roam inside. Majima was still wearing those soft gloves, and they felt so good against his skin. 

 They stayed together like that for a while, breaking apart only to sip their beers. Kiryu was still buzzed, and felt slightly lightheaded and completely at ease. He touched Majima’s chin till he looked up. They locked eyes, and Kiryu felt like he’d never get over how important this was, or the vulnerable expression on Majima’s face. The expression no one else got to see. He imagined his own expression looked about the same. 

 Majima took a deep breath through his nose. Kiryu felt he should say something, but he didn’t want this moment to end. It felt different than the usual electricity or fire. This was an even deeper feeling. They breathed in time with the waves, a slow, steady flow. Their skin was lit only by the pale blue moonlight, and Kiryu couldn’t remember ever feeling anything like it.

 They reached for each other at the same time, lips meeting without hesitation. Kiryu felt soft gloves on the back of his neck as his hands untucked Majima’s beige shirt and the tank top, needing to touch the skin underneath. His back felt smooth and firm. Kiryu moved his hand to where the consistency of his skin changed just slightly where his tattoo ended, then leaned forward till Majima was underneath him. He pressed down, only briefly breaking the kiss because he needed to see Majima’s face again. 

 Majima brought his hand to his mouth and bit down on the tip of his glove, pulling it off. He moved his other hand but Kiryu caught it and brought it to his own mouth. He did the same thing Majima had done, pulling the glove off with his teeth. He heard a sharp intake of breath as he did and, as always, the ability to cause that kind of reaction was thrilling. Kiryu kissed and mouthed at his palm, then leaned in and kissed his lips again. 

 Majima’s bare hands worked their way through his hair to the base of his skull. Kiryu kissed his cheek, breathing in the faint but enticing scent of his cologne as he trailed wet kisses along Majima’s neck, taking his pulse with his tongue. Kiryu’s hips pressed down against Majima’s only semi-voluntarily, and Majima thrust up to meet him, hooking his leg around Kiryu’s thigh and holding him there. 

 Kiryu had enjoyed his evening, but spent half the time wishing he could take Majima some place where they could be alone. That pent up energy was finally put to use as their strong bodies pressed together in a slow, desperate way.

 A cloud was slowly covering the moon, and the light faded to where they could just barely see each other. Kiryu pulled back to catch his breath, but let his hand slide down and between Majima’s legs.

 A second later, Majima’s hand was on his belt, undoing the buckle, then his pants. His hand traced over the front of his underwear, making Kiryu shudder as his thumb moved just under the tip of his cock. 

 Kiryu’s breath caught in his throat, and he went back to kissing Majima’s neck as he was touched. His own hand tugged on Majima’s pants till he had the button undone. When he pulled the zipper down he let out a soft oh. Majima wasn’t wearing underwear. One less barrier to worry about. He heard a hiss of breath as his hand touched Majima’s hard cock. Kiryu smothered the sound by kissing his lips, holding back a moan as Majima’s hand worked its way inside his underwear to touch him in the same way, a slow exploration that made him ache with desire. 

 Majima licked at his lips. Their wrists brushed together as they touched each other, then Majima was pulling at his underwear. Kiryu helped him, pushing the fabric down far enough to free his cock. Kiryu was still on top, and the arm he was propping himself up with faltered as Majima gripped both of them in his hand. Kiryu let his forehead rest against Majima’s as they both breathed hard. 

“I love you.” Kiryu whispered, breaking the silence.”

 Majima smiled. Kiryu could see his teeth in the dim, muted moonlight. For a second it looked like he was going to make a joke, but then he nuzzled his head against Kiryu’s till his mouth was next to his ear. “Love you, Kaz.”

 Kiryu let out a shuddering breath as Majima pumped his hand. He shifted onto his right side but stayed close. Their bodies pressed together as their legs intertwined and slid against each other. Majima let him go and reached behind him. He pulled on the towel he’d brought with him, and from within it rolled the giant bottle of lube. Kiryu buried his face in Majima’s shoulder so he could laugh without making too much noise. When he pulled back, the look on his partner’s face made his hips buck. Majima hooked his leg around Kiryu again, bringing them even closer together. 

 Kiryu took the bottle of lube. The smell of coconut flooded his senses as he squeezed some into his hand, then grasped down where Majima was once again holding their cocks together with the tips up, side by side. Both their hands slid together now, slick and slippery. Kiryu felt a strong wave of pleasure wash over his entire body. 

“I really wanted to do this again. I didn’t even know this was…” he murmured, his breath hitching as their hands touched themselves and each other at once, “it’s such a turn on.”

“You’re such a turn on, gorgeous.” Majima said. His other hand had been resting under his head, but he reached out and took Kiryu’s, their hands gripping tight above their heads. “Ya couldn’t even get me undressed before gettin’ yer hands on me. Ya don’t know what that does to a guy.”

“I do now.” Kiryu said. Their voices stayed low, deep and were increasingly strained. Before Majima, Kiryu couldn’t remember ever talking much during intimate moments. Majima had changed that. He’d changed so much. Made him unashamed. Made him bold. “Your cock feels so good against mine.”

“Fuck.” Majima hissed. His teeth nipped at Kiryu’s earlobe, then he leaned back and looked down. “Look, Kiryu-chan. Look how great we look together.”

 It was as if Majima had willed the moon to return from behind the clouds. Kiryu could see the sheen of sweat on their skin, the shine of the lube that coated their hands as they slid them up and down together. A drop of precum beaded on the tip of Majima’s cock, and Kiryu swiped two fingers against it and licked it off. 

 Majima’s reaction was quiet, but strong. Kiryu could see it on his face and feel it against his body as he shuddered, jaw slack. Majima made a low noise that  sounded like a growl. Before Kiryu could move his fingers away, Majima grabbed his hand between his teeth, and sucked hard on those same fingers.

 Kiryu allowed himself a low moan, as Majima’s hand jerked them harder. Kiryu slowly withdrew his fingers with the intent of taking them all the way out of Majima’s mouth, but when his fingertips touched the insides of his lips, Majima sucked them back inside, jutting his head forward and back. He sucked on his fingers in a lewd, brazen display, in time with the way he pumped his hand, holding eye contact. Kiryu bit his lip to stay quiet, and watched as a jolt of pleasure shot straight to his groin.

 Moonlight hit the side of Majima’s cheek as he finally let Kiryu’s fingers go. Kiryu immediately brought his hand back down to Majima’s. Groping over both of them. Squeezing their cocks, moving lower and taking a gentle hold of Majima’s tightened balls.

“Kaz.” Majima whispered, pressing their foreheads together. “Grab that towel, darlin’. You got me so close.”

 Kiryu kissed him, then felt around for the soft towel. He arranged it between them with care, so it covered them without getting in the way. It wasn’t easy to concentrate. Majima never stopped touching them, and only increased his speed. When Kiryu was finished with the towel, he brought his hand back down to where Majima was furiously pumping his hand over both of them. 

“I got it.” Majima said between deep breaths when Kiryu tried to touch him. Instead, Kiryu fondled Majima’s balls again, earning an approving grunt as his fingers rubbed circles in the tender skin just below. 

“Yeah, Goro, that’s it. Get yourself off.” Kiryu said. He could feel his dick twitch as Majima moaned, and lurched forward into a hard and enthusiastic kiss, licking his tongue and biting at Kiryu’s lips, then pressing their lips firmly together as he jacked them off together. 

“Goro.” Kiryu whispered between kisses. “My Goro. So hot and wild. And mine.” They were too close together for Kiryu to see his expression, but he could feel the tension in his body, the thrumming current that connected them, amplified by the rhythmic sound of the nearby waves. “Are you going to cum for me, Goro?”

“Yes. All for you.” Majima said, breathing fast. He buried his head in Kiryu’s shoulder and a moment later, with one last big shudder, he lurched and writhed, and finally grew still. Kiryu nearly came just feeling that happen, but he wasn’t quite there yet. He tried to stay still. He knew how pliant Majima became after he finished, and even though Kiryu was aching for his own release, he didn’t want to rush him. 

 But Majima was too good to him to leave him hanging for long. He quickly wiped himself off and pushed Kiryu onto his back, then but his earlobe. “Ya gonna cum in my mouth, Kazzy?” he whispered. 

 Kiryu took a breath. “Please.”

 Majima crawled down his body and sucked his cock into his scorching hot mouth with the urgency Kiryu was craving. He wrapped his hand around the base and held tight, but not tight enough for how worked up Kiryu already felt. 

“Harder.” Kiryu said. Majima hummed and tightened his grip, balancing him on the edge of pain. “Yes.” Kiryu hissed. His whole body felt charged, from his toes to the top of his head. Majima took him in so deep that Kiryu could feel the back of his throat as his tongue licked the underside.

“Goro. I’m so…” Kiryu couldn’t say anything more. He took Majima’s head between both hands, and Majima only encouraged him to fuck his mouth, reaching a hand underneath him to grab his ass. Kiryu almost wanted to keep it going longer, but he was too far gone. He grit his teeth as his orgasm overwhelmed him. He thrust his hips up into Majima’s mouth, over and over till his spent body finally let him calm down.

 He pulled Majima to him and held him to his chest, smoothing his hair, running his hand over the back of his shoulders, and everywhere else he could reach. His heartbeat was still loud in his ears, louder than the waves. After a minute, Majima reached into his pocket and pulled out a slightly squashed pack of smokes. He lit one and placed it between Kiryu’s lips, then pulled out another for himself. He leaned close and lit his cigarette off of the one in Kiryu’s mouth, which was something he’d only seen in movies. They both sat up and watched the ocean as they smoked, pants still undone, dishevelled and happy. 

 Once they’d finished their smokes, they both stretched and yawned. Without words, they straightened out their clothes and gathered everything. Kiryu smiled as Majima picked up another beach towel that one of the kids had left out. He was too deliriously happy to be annoyed by it. 

 They carefully and quietly put everything away and got ready to sleep, then curled up on the futon together. Kiryu turned on the nearby fan, which kept them cool as they dosed. The last thing Kiryu remembered was Majima whispering how much he loved him.

Notes:

Thanks for your patience. I’ve been having some technical issues with my stupid, stupid phone that hopefully will be replaced soon.

Chapter 43: Pre-Show

 Kiryu woke up slowly. His eyes felt heavy as he blinked into consciousness. When he looked to the side he found he was being watched.

“Mornin’, Kaz.” Majima said gently as Kiryu rubbed his eyes. Majima’s head was propped up under his arm, and he was looking at him with such a relaxed expression that Kiryu couldn’t help but smile. 

“You look… perfect.” Kiryu said, his head still feeling groggy and half asleep. He had a slight hangover, but nothing that wouldn’t fade with a big breakfast and the Toughness X he’d bought for them last night. 

“Waking up like this is what’s perfect.” Majima said, and kissed his chest. Kiryu touched the back of his neck, his fingers travelling up into his silky hair, then back down to his undercut. 

“Your hair feels different than it did before. It grows fast, doesn’t it.” Kiryu said. It felt fuzzy, but longer, less like velcro than before. 

“Yeah I’ll need a haircut soon.” Majima said, as if what Kiryu had said wasn’t a compliment. 

“It feels nice. Softer.” I’ll miss it, he wanted to add, but didn’t. 

“Mmm.” Majima said, the side of his head resting on Kiryu’s chest. “Ready to kick my ass today?”

“Heh, yeah. The kids are going to be so excited. It’ll be hard to keep them focused on breakfast.”

“S’okay. I like ‘em rowdy.” Majima said, squeezing his bicep. “It’ll make for a good audience.”

 Kiryu sat up, which made Majima’s head slide into his lap. He grabbed Kiryu around the waist and kissed his stomach. Looking down at him, Kiryu’s insides twisted at how little time they had left. 

 Seconds later, his train of thought was derailed by the foreign, ticklish feeling of a tongue in his navel. Kiryu made an undignified noise and twisted away, which made Majima clap a hand in front of his mouth to muffle his laughter. 

“I can’t believe that sound came out of you. Never heard anything like it.” Majima said once he’d calmed down. “Like a car horn. Gyeeeh.” Majima said quietly, trying to replicate the sound. 

“Shut up.” Kiryu said, but he was smiling too. “I don’t laugh at all your weird noises.”

“That’s ‘cause I’ve never made a weird noise in my life.” Majima said with faux sincerity and that smirk Kiryu both hated and loved. He grabbed Majima and grappled till he had him on his back. Majima’s legs wrapped around him as Kiryu kissed the edges of his smiling lips. 

“You’re fun, Kaz.” Majima said as he squeezed Kiryu’s sides between his legs. “I knew we’d be good together, but I never thought this’d be so much fun.”

 Kiryu kissed his neck. “I knew you’d be fun.” he murmured in Majima’s ear. “I didn’t think you’d be so… sappy.”

 Majima laughed, swore, and beat his hands against Kiryu’s back. Kiryu leaned all of his weight down till Majima let out a wheeze, making them both laugh, still trying to be quiet but failing. That joy Kiryu had felt the first morning they were together had only grown, bolstered by trust, love and respect. He’d never felt anything like it, and Majima was right, on top of it all, it was fun. 

 Kiryu held tight and pulled them both up into a sitting position. “I don’t have the right words to do justice to how I’m feeling right now, so I’ll just say thank you.”

 Majima leaned his head against Kiryu’s shoulder. “Those damn pretty eyes.” he said and sighed, “And I get it. Last night was… well, first time I ever fooled around on a beach. ‘S not somethin’ I’ll ever forget.”

“Yeah. Were you not wearing underwear all night?”

“Nah, I got rid of ‘em between gettin’ home and the beach. I don’t like hangin’ loose if there’s any chance of fightin’.”

 Kiryu kissed just under his bad eye. “I didn’t know how powerful sex could be without any, uh…” Kiryu said, searching for the right word. Penetration sounded so clinical. Majima smirked again and made a suggestive display with his fingers. Kiryu laughed. “Yeah, exactly.”

 Majima hugged him again, “There was plenty we coulda done, but I didn’t feel like gettin’ sand where the sun don’t shine, and a full shower would’ve woken up the kids.” he said. Then he smiled as he heard distant footsteps. “Speakin’ off, they’re awake.”

 Majima stretched, then slapped his shoulder. “Alright, sparring partner, time to get that perfect ass up.”

 

 The children were, as expected, al ready excited. The match was scheduled for eleven o’clock. Mikio was coming half an hour early to help set up the ring, but as they’d all woken up early, they had more than enough time to not rush through breakfast. 

 Halfway through the meal, Majima asked what his wrestling name should be. Before anyone could think about it, Izumi yelled “Snake Mask!”

“Done.” Majima replied, just as quickly. The other kids laughed, but not in a mocking way. Izumi looked proud.

 Once they were all finished cleaning up, Ayako approached Majima and Kiryu, her hands behind her back. 

“Majima-san, um, I mean, Uncle Majima?” she started meekly. 

 Majima raised an eyebrow. “Whatcha got there, Ayako-chan?”

“It’s just an idea I had. I kept the stitches loose, so I can pick it out if you don’t like it.” she said, holding out the gold wrestling mask. 

Majima looked at it and smiled. “This is perfect! Look, Kaz.” He showed it to Kiryu. A red and yellow felt sakura flower, similar in size and shape to the ones on his body, covered the left eye of the mask. “Do ya have time to tighten those stitches? We don’t want it to fall off.”

 Ayako, all smiles, took the mask back. “I’ll start right now. I’m glad you like it.”

“Of course! I couldn’t’ve come up with anything better.” He pulled up the sleeve of his tee shirt and touched one of his own flowers. “A great match, and a lot less painful than these babies were.”

 Kiryu nodded at her, and Ayako left to go get started, taking Riona with her. Majima looked touched. “What a sweetheart.”

“I’m glad she had time to finish it. I think you get the rest of your gifts tomorrow.”

 Majima chuckled. “I’m dyin’ to know what’s in that paper bag in the fridge that says Keep Out.”

“Ah, you saw that.”

“I touched the bag and it squished. If I was anywhere else I’d’ve snuck a look.”

“Heh. I’m not going to give anything away, other than we don’t have to worry about making dinner tomorrow.”

“These guys are gonna get me all choked up.” Majima said fondly, looking out to the front yard where the kids had started kicking a ball around. 

 They joined the kickball game outside, till Mikio pulled up in front of the house. Kiryu warned the kids not to run up to the van till it was parked, something they were usually mindful of, but their excitement was building into a frenzy, and Majima was only encouraging it. 

 As soon as Mikio shut the door behind them he was swarmed. He laughed as the kids talked at him at the same time. Majima hung back to show Koji how to keep a ball off the ground using his knees.

“They’re all as excited as last time, Aniki.” Mikio said with a laugh after Kiryu and Haruka managed to calm down the group.

“How are you Mikio?” Kiryu asked.

“Not bad.” Mikio replied, as Izumi pulled him by the hand to go see Mame. “Even with the boss gone, it’s been pretty smooth. The new guys have been keeping in line and all that. It’s a lot easier than the first time I was put in charge.”

“Good.” Kiryu said. In the years since the Tamashiro Family had disbanded, the Ryudo Family had absorbed more and more of their members, mostly older men who valued the way Patriarch Nakahara ran things. Lately, some of the less stubborn younger guys had also joined, and Mikio had been given a lot more work to do. 

“Patriarch Majima…san.” Mikio said with a stiff bow. 

 Majima, who was giving Eri a piggyback ride, bowed deeply, then stood up quickly, making Eri scream with laughter.

“You’re a patriarch, Uncle Majima?” Taichi asked. 

“Yep. The Majima Construction Patriarch, that’s what they call me.” he said firmly. Mikio looked guilty, but Majima laughed. “Next time I’m here, i’ll bring ya a few hard hats.” 

 Majima was called over by Koji, who wanted to show him his progress with the ball. With Eri still on his back, he clapped a hand on Mikio’s shoulder before he left. Mikio only slightly flinched, and gave Kiryu a shaky smile. 

“Am I playing referee again? I brought my shirt.” Mikio asked Kiryu, motioning to a small bag he carried. 

“I’ve promised that roll to Taichi this time around, but I’m sure he could use some pointers, eh Taichi?”

“Yeah!” Taichi yelled. “I know what to do but I have four, no, five questions.”

“Fire away! You’re getting so tall, my ref shirt might even fit you.” Mikio said. He reached into the bag and handed Taichi a black and white striped shirt. Then he reached into the bag again. “I… also brought this.”

“The Ricky Mask.” Izumi said quietly, as the blue and yellow mask was drawn out of the bag. 

“I know it’s kind of a downer.” Mikio said, “but I thought Rikiya would like to know we’re still thinking about him.”

“Of course.” Haruka said, taking a step forward. “We’ll put it in a place of honour.”

 Kiryu nodded at her. “Of course.” he repeated. 

 Mikio took a deep breath and smiled at the mask, before handing it to Haruka for safekeeping. 

 Soon the men and the older kids picked up the pieces of the ring from behind the house and brought it out to the beach. As they set it up, and Majima encouraged the kids to stomp the sand down inside the square so it was nice and even. Kiryu didn’t mind. It helped them burn off some energy, and kept them away from the ropes, which they were attaching to the posts Kiryu had driven in with a mallet. Aside from riling up the kids, Majima was serious about getting the ring together, and ensured everything was done properly. Kiryu caught him looking his way a few times with that giddy smile that made him happy. 

 They were mostly done when Mikio said he’d finish up so the fighters could get ready. Kiryu ensured he was okay alone with the kids, who were all talking to him at once again, but he said he didn’t mind. Kiryu was glad to see him looking more relaxed. Leaving Mikio on the beach, he and Majima approached the house just as Ayako and Taichi came running out. 

“Not bad, Ref.” Majima said to Taichi. “Ya might wanna tuck it in.” The shirt Mikio had given him nearly reached his knees. 

“Oh. Right.” Taichi said. He turned around and shoved the shirt into his shorts. Ayako once more presented the gold mask to Majima. 

“Thanks, Sweetie. Now it looks like it was made just for me.”

 Ayako nodded, shy as usual when she was being praised. Majima put a hand on her shoulder before going back into the house.

 The sounds of the excitement outside were muted as Kiryu shut them into his room. Majima stood in the middle of the space, looking down at his mask. “Look, she even put fabric on the inside, so the eye hole won’t rub against my bad side.” He sighed, “These kids are gonna kill me, they’re bein’ so sweet.”

 Kiryu hugged him from behind and kissed his neck. “Yeah, they’ll do that.”

 Majima sighed and leaned into his touch. “Hey now, don’t go startin’ somethin’ we ain’t got time for, Kiryu-chan. Those little red shorts of yers don’t leave much to the imagination.”

 Kiryu smiled against his neck. “I know. I just needed to hold you.”

“Stop that, ya sap!” Majima said, stepping away and laughing. “I gotta change. I’m goin’ over here, so no peeking.”

 They retreated to separate corners of the room and got ready. Kiryu hadn’t made any promises, and got a shirt thrown at him when he was caught looking Majima’s way.

 After a few minutes, Kiryu had everything but his mask on. He was sitting down and lacing up his boots when Majima said his name. He turned his head and took his time looking Majima up and down. 

 Majima posed, leaning far back with one hand extended in a claw, a frenzied smile under the gold mask. The white snake and the sakura flower on the mask complimented the tattoos over his strong muscles, and the shiny gold shorts that sat low on his slim hips were a perfect match. He wore his black gloves and a thick gold chain.

“You look fantastic, like a real pro.” Kiryu said, then a memory hit him hard. “Hmm.”

“What?”

“Nothing. It just reminded me of how I loved watching wrestling as a kid but…” he said, trying to organize his thoughts as he finished lacing his boots, “but I’d get uncomfortable watching it around other people. It felt wrong, or like, they’d get the wrong idea about me. Or, heh, I guess the right idea about me.” He shook his head and smiled. “I stopped caring so much about that when I got older, but I never considered why I used to feel that way till right now.”

“Ah, one of those re-evaluatin’ your life after realizin’ somethin’ new about yourself thoughts.” Majima said. He walked over to where Kiryu’s sat and ruffled his hair from behind. 

“Is that what they’re called?”  

“I dunno, but get ready, ‘cause there’s probably more comin’ your way.” Majima smiled and touched his cheek. “It’s a good thing. Life gets a lot more fun when ya understand yourself, ya know?”

 Kiryu looked up at him as Majima’s gloved fingers ran up his neck and combed through his hair. “Yeah. I think I do. Thanks for looking hot enough to make me think about that.”

 Majima leaned in closer and growled, gripping Kiryu’s hair. “Kazzy, you look so good I wanna eat ya.”

“Tomorrow.” Kiryu whispered. “And I think I owe you one.”

 Majima laughed loudly, then kissed his forehead. “Tomorrow.” 

 After receiving a playful slap on the cheek, Kiryu stood up and Majima helped him put on and adjust his mask. “Ready?” Kiryu asked. 

“It’s showtime.” Majima said with a grin.

Notes:

The next chapter may take some time. I’m still waiting on my new phone, and it’s important to me to get this match done right.

Also, I’ve been wondering whether I should make everything that happens after Majima leaves into a second part, or just continue and make this already long fic even longer. I’m leaning towards keeping it all together in one fic, but I’d be happy to hear anybody’s thoughts about this.

Thanks for reading!

Chapter 44: The Main Event

Notes:

Hey everyone. Artist @bwiebe has made some amazing art inspired by this fic and I’m thrilled. Find it here:

Twitter: https://x.com/_bwiebe/status/1804678928511926311?s=46&t=hrjlPppUE2juRVsEXTwWIg

https://x.com/_bwiebe/status/1804679440477368394?s=46&t=hrjlPppUE2juRVsEXTwWIg

Tumblr: https://www.tumblr.com/bwiebe-art/754035877755469824/okinawa

Check out her other stuff too! Also, if anyone knows a better way to link that in a note, let me know.

 Haruka knocked on the bedroom door and said that everyone was ready and waiting at the beach. Kiryu stepped out, Majima on his heels.

“Wow, Ayako did a great job.” she said. Majima crouched a little so she could examine the flower on the gold mask. “I’m supposed to ask who’s coming out first so Taichi and can announce you. He’s been practicing with Mikio.” 

“I’ll go first. I’m the challenger.” Majima said. “Ooh, I never get nervous before a fight, but this is an important audience.”

 He didn’t look nervous, but that didn’t mean much. Kiryu was about to say something, but Haruka beat him to it. 

“They’re going to love you, Uncle Snake Mask.”

 Majima chuckled. “Thanks, boss. Now get outta here. We shouldn’t keep them waitin’.”

“Hey! Now I’m rooting for Uncle Kaz.” Haruka laughed as Majima gently pushed her away, “I’ll wave when it’s time.” 

 She ran over to the beach, and Kiryu squeezed Majima’s shoulder as they watched her from the front door of the house. Majima shook out his arms and cracked his neck. They heard Taichi yelling from the beach, then Haruka waved. Majima ran across the street, then slowed to a walk. The kids cheered and clapped as Majima strode towards the ring. Kiryu didn’t have the best view, but he saw Majima’s gloved hands raised skyward as he walked. 

 Haruka waved again, and Kiryu took his time walking down to the beach, waving to the kids as he passed. A

“…the returning champion, the man with a dragon on his back and uh, also on his head!” Taichi yelled, “He never loses any fights, and he’s the strongest uncle in the world: Dragon Mask!”

 Mikio and the kids cheered and yelled. Kiryu was happy to play up the theatricality. He always tried to stay calm and collected around the children, to be the strong caretaker they needed. Dragon Mask was not shackled by that, and could have more fun, and maybe even show off. 

 He stepped over the first two ropes and ducked under the third. Taichi followed, choosing to roll under the ropes before jumping up to stand between the fighters. 

“You’re goin’ down, Dragon Mask.” Majima said loudly and hissed, stepping forward. Taichi held out a hand and touched Majima’s chest. He jumped back like Taichi had pushed him, and Kiryu had to stifle a laugh. The kids sounded impressed. 

 Taichi looked pleased by that. “Be careful, Snake Mask. I want a clean fight.” he said seriously. Kiryu nodded, and stood at the ready. Majima grunted in acknowledgment, bouncing on his sandal-covered feet. He looked imposing, but the only one who looked intimidated was Mikio. “Okay.” Taichi continued, “Everybody count down with me. Three, two, one, fight!”

 They waited till Taichi stepped back, following Mikio’s instruction. Both fighters stood watching each other for a moment. Then, after the slightest nod of Kiryu’s head, Majima rushed forward, just as they’d practiced. Kiryu extended his arm and dashed to the side. Majima grabbed and held onto his arm with both hands, close to his chest so it looked like Kiryu had landed the hit. Kiryu continued forward, holding Majima up off the ground by his extended arm. He made a quarter turn and pushed. Majima leapt down and staggered back into the ropes. 

 Majima smiled and ran at him again. Kiryu bent forward and let Majima roll over his back. After the roll, he stood up and looked around, as if he couldn’t find Kiryu. The kids screamed with laughter and pointed behind him. Kiryu couldn’t help smiling. Majima excelled in front of an audience. He gave the kids a thumbs-up and spun around, pointing at Kiryu. Any pretence of a character was gone. It was Majima grinning back at him.

 Kiryu made sure his right knee was slightly bent as Majima rushed him a third time. Quickly and effortlessly, Majima was up on his shoulders, and flipped them forward into the sand. 

“That was awesome!” Taichi yelled, his job forgotten for a moment as he jumped up and down in excitement. 

 They both got back on their feet quickly, and circled each other, continuing with the routine they’d planned. As Kiryu expected, the kids cheered for both of them, and reacted strongly to every move. Mikio also looked impressed, not that Kiryu had much time to look around. They’d practiced most of their moves ahead of time, but they still improvised light blows and kept the energy of the fight up. It wasn’t hard. Majima was just as in tune with Kiryu as Kiryu was with him. 

 After grappling, Majima swept his foot against the back of Kiryu’s knee, knocking him to the sand. Majima then slapped his elbow as he jumped to the ground, narrowly missing Kiryu’s head as he rolled away and back on his feet. Instead of getting up, Majima kicked his leg up into a handstand and pushed Kiryu’s shoulder away with his foot when he tried to get close again. 

 There were no rounds, and after a few minutes under the hot sun, they were both breathing hard. Majima tilted his head to the side, a silent question. Kiryu nodded. It was time for the grand finale. 

“Game over, Dragon!” Majima called and pointed his way. The kids gasped, fully engaged with the scenario. 

“We’ll see about that!” Kiryu replied. Majima rushed him. Kiryu sidestepped and hoisted him up sideways and over his shoulders.

“Yeah, yeah!” Taichi yelled, happy they were doing a move he’d helped with. 

 Kiryu spun around, bent his legs, and tossed Majima up and behind him. He rolled in the air before landing on his feet. The kids clapped, but they weren’t done yet. From behind him, Majima grabbed Kiryu around the waist, then and let himself be pulled behind as Kiryu walked towards the opposite side then where the kids sat. They giggled as Majima played up being dragged along. 

 Majima let him go and jumped back to the opposite ropes for one last running start. This time he dove directly at Kiryu, who grabbed him by his shoulder and the back of his shorts, using the momentum to spin him in a circle and send him flying over the ropes and out of the ring. The kids screamed in delight as Majima landed, rolled forward and onto his back, and let his spread limbs hit the ground in a cloud of sand.

“Oh! Out of bounds!” Taichi yelled, running up to Kiryu and taking his hand. “Dragon wins!” 

 He held Kiryu’s hand up as high as he could. The kids clapped and hollered, while Eri and Izumi ran over to Majima. 

“Snake Mask!” Izumi yelled. 

 From where he lay in the sand, Majima held up a thumbs-up. “He’s okay!” Taichi said. More cheers. 

 Majima sat up, but was knocked right back down as both girls hugged him at once, prompting a fit of giggles from all three of them. The rest of the kids rushed into the ring and all spoke at once as Kiryu took his mask off and pushed his hair back. 

 Overtop of the din, he heard Majima say “but we ain’t gonna try that, right? Not till ya learn how to break a fall.”

 Mikio had also stepped into the ring, looking awestruck. “That was better than the professionals, Aniki. I’ve never seen a fight like that.”

“Heh, not bad for about a week’s worth of practice.”

“A week? That’s unbelievable! I wish I’d gotten that on video. No wonder you’re legends.”

 Majima came up to them, flanked by the younger girls and Koji. “I think they liked it, Kiryu-chan.”

 The kids all shouted their agreements before Kiryu could say anything. Majima laughed. Ayako jogged over to him and handed him an eyepatch. 

“Thanks, sweetie. The mask did its job but I’m dyin’ in here.”

 He turned away from Mikio and the kids and pulled his mask off, sighing loudly in relief. When he turned around, the eyepatch was in place, but his hair was a mess. On instinct, Kiryu reached for him, but thankfully, Haruka stepped between them and pointed at the part that was sticking straight up. Good save, Kiryu thought as he admonished himself. It would have been too tender a gesture if he’d fixed it himself. Haruka gave a small nod of her head, and Kiryu did the same. She was as good a mind reader as Majima, he thought fondly. 

 The kids demanded his attention again, and he tried to answer their questions without encouraging them to attempt the throws. 

“Can Mikio stay for lunch, Uncle Kaz?” Izumi asked. 

“I hope so,” Kiryu said, “but that’s up to him.”

“Oh, uh, are you sure? I don’t want to get in the way.” Mikio said. 

“Stick around.” Majima said. “It’ll make the kids happy, and I got a couple questions about yer operation out here.”

 Mikio looked pleased until that last part, when he grew very stiff.

“Mikio is really nice, Uncle Majima.” Eri said. “He protected us when they knocked our house down.”

“Even after they shot him!” Koji added. 

“S’that so?” Majima said, looking impressed.

“And he protected Mame’s house.” Izumi said. 

 Majima chuckled, “Then I guess I have to like him, huh?”

 The kids nodded. Mikio still looked uncomfortable, and the kids stories hadn’t helped, but he agreed to stay. 

“We’ll go change, then get some food ready.” Kiryu said, leaving Mikio with Haruka and the kids once more.

 Kiryu walked back to the house with Majima, and also Ayako and Shiro, who volunteered to start on lunch. 

 Once more shut into their room, Majima launched himself into Kiryu’s arms. Kiryu held him tightly under his thighs as Majima’s legs locked around his waist.

“Holy shit that was fun. Maybe we should start new careers as wrestlers.” Majima said, his arms around Kiryu’s neck  

“Only if we fight together.” Kiryu replied, squeezing his thighs.

“That’s a given.” Majima said, then leaned in for a kiss. He lowered his voice, “Now change into something a little less sexy so I can concentrate.”

 Kiryu didn’t let him down just yet. “You were amazing.”

“We were amazin’. Couldn’t’ve asked for a better crowd, or a better sparring partner.”

 Kiryu kissed him once more before finally releasing him. They changed clothes, and after a last, lingering kiss, went to go help the kids in the kitchen. 

 Ayako and Shiro were a good team. Both of them always gave their full attention to the task at hand, and it made them efficient and precise. It hadn’t taken them long to change, but the two kids were already halfway through preparing one of the household’s favourite cold noodle dishes. Kiryu and Majima didn’t have to do much more than supervise and drink water to cool down after their fight. 

“We used to make this with soba,” Shiro told Majima, “but now we use egg noddles and it’s just as good.”

“One of ya has an allergy, right?”

 Shiro nodded. “Taichi’s allergic to buckwheat. Do you have any allergies, Uncle Majima? I’m lactose intolerant, but I’m allowed to have a little gelato sometimes.”

“That’s a pretty common one, huh? I’m fine with food, it’s when pollen season hits that I’m in trouble.”

“Really?” Kiryu asked. For some reason it seemed strange that Majima would be allergic to anything. 

“Yep. It’s good it was early this year. The ol’ sinuses probably won’t like all that tall grass across the street in the spring.” Majima said, tapping the bridge of his nose.

“Hmm.” Kiryu responded. He wondered if there was something they could do about that next year. Then the thought of Majima being around at any time next year put a smile on his face. He took a long drink of his water to hide how stupidly happy he must have looked, but the way Majima was smirking at him told him he hadn’t been subtle. Thankfully the kids were too involved with the cooking to notice. 

 They sent the kids to gather everyone to the outside table, as they started bringing plates of food out. With help, they all sat down to a nice meal. At the end of the table, thoughtfully displayed along with a photo and some incense, was Rikiya’s mask. Before they started eating, they took care to honour him. 

 The kids talked excitedly through lunch about the match, and Majima answered their questions with an equal amount of enthusiasm. Kiryu was still riding the adrenaline high from fighting, and it was easy to laugh along with the kids.

 Mikio finally looked at ease. He praised the food and asked the kids for their recipe, which prompted a long and involved explanation from Shiro, which Mikio listened to carefully.

 Not long after they’d first met, Kiryu had complimented Mikio’s patience with the kids, back when him and Rikiya would come by the house every once in a while. He’d answered that he and his father had never seen eye-to-eye, and he never wanted these kids to feel like nobody was listening to them. That was the day he earned Kiryu’s trust. 

 After lunch, Kiryu and the kids cleaned up and cut up some fruit, while Majima took Mikio down to the beach to talk business. Kiryu was curious, but let them go without any questions. Instead he focused on the kids, and asked if there were any more homework to be done before they went back to school. To his surprise, Taichi and Ayako had made sure all their projects had been taken care of the night before. They’d all been making an extra effort lately, and while he knew it might not continue after Majima left, Kiryu was enjoying it while it lasted. 

 After some time, Majima and Mikio returned, hauling parts of the deconstructed wrestling ring with them. Kiryu had to fight not to stare at Majima’s arms, on full display in the white tank top he wore. With Koji and Mitsuo, he went to gather the rest, as Haruka made sure the doors were open and the path was clear for them to take everything to the back of the house. 

 Kiryu still felt light and happy, as if the adrenaline from the fight was still flowing through his system. Everyone had worked together today, and it had gone better than he could have imagined. After one last game of fetch with Mame and Izumi, Mikio said it was time for him to leave. 

“Thanks for coming, Mikio.” Haruka said, handing back the Ricky mask.

“Are you kidding? Saki and Nakahara-san will be so jealous they missed this. Thanks for everything.” Mikio said, then froze, as if he suddenly remembered who he was talking to. “Thank you very much.” he said more formally. 

“We’ll get your shirt back to you after it’s washed.” Haruka said.

 Mikio smiled at Taichi, who was still wearing his striped shirt. “Keep it, you’ll grow into it.”

“Really? Thanks, Mikio!” Taichi said, jumping again.

“Remember what I told ya,” Majima said, “no backin’ down.”

“Thank you, Majima-san, I won’t.”

 The kids all waved and yelled their goodbyes, and after the van was out of the way, ran down to the beach. Kiryu looked at Majima, who was already looking back at him and smiling. Together they found a spot to sit down in the sand together to watch the kids play.

Chapter 45: Learning to Fall

 Majima stood, hands on hips, in front of his troops. “Again.” he said, and he and all nine kids bent their knees and rolled backwards into the sand, arms out to their sides the moment they hit the ground. Loud laughter followed.

 From behind the group, Kiryu nodded. “Good. Keep your arms spread, Shiro, that way they absorb the impact.”

 The kids had begged him and Majima to teach them a few wrestling moves. Kiryu told them they weren’t learning anything without learning the basic rules of safety, which was first and foremost, how to fall down without getting hurt. The group had listened carefully to Majima’s lesson, despite their excitement. He expected arguments, but like Kiryu, the kids were eager to make the most of the time they had left with their houseguest. 

 The first person to get back up was Majima, and he and Kiryu pulled the kids to their feet for another round of falling backwards. After they’d repeated the motion twice more, Kiryu took the lead and explained how to do a shoulder roll. The kids were attentive, and it felt good to teach them something like this. Helping Haruka with her science and math homework was already starting to get difficult, but Kiryu had nothing but confidence with this lesson.

 Haruka smiled as widely as the others as they listened to him. Kiryu hadn’t forgotten that he’d agreed to teach her how to fight, and while he still felt reluctant, he was starting to look forward to it. She caught on so quickly to what they were teaching. It would have surprised him, but he remembered how fast she picked up the dance routines she liked to watch on TV and the internet.

 Soon the kids were falling back and rolling all over the beach, and aside from a couple small arguments between the kids about getting in each others space or accidentally kicking sand, spirits continued to be high well into the late afternoon. After the lessons, Koji and Mitsuo, who only had so much patience for anything that wasn’t baseball, talked the other kids into a game. The only ones who didn’t join in were Haruka, who had reading to do for school, and Riona, who was still working on her secret project in her notebook.

 After an inning of playing their catcher, Kiryu walked over to where Majima was helping Eri her with her hair, which had come loose from its usual pigtails. 

“So, I’m told I’m banned from the kitchen tomorrow night.” Majima said as Kiryu took a seat next to him in the sand. Eri looked over and Majima laughed. “Hold still, Eri-chan, we’re almost done.”

 He was tying her hair into two little buns at the top of her head. Eri nodded, and Majima had to lurch forward to keep from pulling her hair. “I don’t even know what we’re having for dinner tomorrow,” she said, “Taichi and Shiro won’t tell me, and I’ve asked them so many times.”

“It’s a surprise,” Kiryu said, “a good surprise.” he added, for Eri’s sake. 

 Majima gently tilted Eri’s head back. “I’m lookin’ forward to it, and it means I should probably cook dinner tonight, huh?”

“You’re our guest, Nii-san. You don’t have to do any more cooking.” 

“But I’m gonna. Just try and stop me.”

“Heh, I’d rather help you.”

 Majima pat Eri’s shoulder. “All done, sweet pea.”

“Thank you, Uncle Majima.” she said. She got to her feet and bowed, then suddenly looked uncertain. “Are you ever going to come visit us again?”

 Majima looked at Kiryu, then smiled at Eri. “Course I will. Dunno when, I got a busy job, but I’ll be back. I like ya all too much to stay away.”

 Eri nodded, and then ran off. Majima shook his head. “Man, these kids.”

 He didn’t elaborate, but Kiryu understood. It wasn’t going to be an easy goodbye for any of them. He’d have to make sure they had a movie or something entertaining to distract themselves after Majima left. “When does your flight leave on Tuesday?”

“Two o’clock, I think? I gotta call and double-check. Unless somethin’ accidentally happens to my phone and I forget to leave.”

“Don’t tempt me.” Kiryu said, and knocked their knees together.

“Wouldn’t work anyway. That Nishida is damn persistent. If I skipped out on the grand opening it might be the thing that finally makes him snap.”

“Heh, can’t have that.” Kiryu said. 

“Nah, then I’d have even more work to do.” Majima replied. “What the hell was I talkin’ about? Right. I’m makin’ dinner, and you’re gonna help.”

 He stood up and stretched. Kiryu watched, then took Majima’s hand and was pulled to his feet. They told the kids they were leaving and went up to the house. 

“What a day.” Majima sighed as they both downed a glass of water in the kitchen. He opened the fridge. “We’re gonna need to go shopping soon. Well, you are.”

“Yeah, we’re planning a big trip on Thursday. Once or twice a month, Mikio gives Haruka and I a ride in the Ryudo family’s truck so we can haul rice and toilet paper and everything else that’s too awkward to carry on the train.”

 Majima gave him a knowing look. “And how long did it take to convince your stubborn ass into accepting the help?”

 Kiryu scowled, which only made Majima laugh. “Longer than it should have.” he admitted. He didn’t add that spilling a bunch of rice on the monorail platform was what finally made him swallow his pride, but he figured he could save some embarrassing stories for the next visit. “It’s easier to accept help if it’s for the kids.”

“It’s great that you’re takin’ the help, Kaz, but I can’t help teasin’ ya.” he said, looking at him with so much love that Kiryu couldn’t help but smile. 

“I know.” Kiryu replied fondly. “What were you talking to Mikio about earlier?”

“Nothin’ big. I wanted to know how they worked with the local businesses, if they were thinkin’ of expanding, shit like that. You can usually get a better sense of a family’s deal from the underlings than the patriarch.”

 Majima had gathered ingredients as he spoke, and was now absentmindedly spinning a kitchen knife in his hand. Kiryu chose his words carefully, “Are you concerned with their expansion?”

 Majima shook his head. “If you’re worried I’m gonna drag Daigo on down to drink with Nakahara, you can relax. I know the point of you bein’ here is to keep yer distance from the clan.” 

“That’s… good.” Kiryu said. There would be advantages for the Ryudo family to be connected with the Tojo, but he doubted it would work in his favour. 

 As if Majima knew exactly what he was thinking, he continued. “I wouldn’t want anyone takin’ advantage of how helpful you are and pullin’ ya into some clan bullshit. That ain’t yer job anymore, and it ain’t fair to the kids.”

 Kiryu nodded and began to wash some of the vegetables. 

 Majima stepped closer and spoke in a low voice, “I’m less concerned with them allying with us, but I told Mikio that if there’s even a whisper about any Omi fuckers sniffin’ around here, to let me know.”

“Is the Omi really making moves this far out?”

 Majima looked hesitant. “No, not yet, but we’ve been hearin’ rumours up north… but it don’t matter. This ain’t yer problem, Kaz, and it’s nothin’ we can’t handle. Wash these bean sprouts for me too, will ya?”

 Kiryu frowned, but he took the sprouts and did what he was asked. Majima was right, it wasn’t his problem. He’d sidelined himself on purpose, and it was important to keep it that way, but still…

 He turned, putting the vegetables to the side. “You’ve told me a few times how you want to make sure I ask for help,” Kiryu said, “but I want the same for you. If you ever need back up, or an extra pair of fists, call me.”

 Majima also stopped what he was doing, and gave him a hard look. Kiryu didn’t look away. “Did you know…” Majima said seriously, taking a step towards him so their faces were close, “that when the light hits your eyes, they turn the prettiest shade of honey-brown I’ve ever seen?”

 Kiryu couldn’t help smiling, “You’re ridiculous.”

“And you’re into that.” was the smirking response. They stared each other down,  silently daring each other to look away. It was a pointless little power struggle, but it felt electrifying. 

“Uncle- oh, sorry!” came a young voice. Their heads snapped to the side at the same time to see Ayako backing out of the room. 

“S’okay, Ayako-chan. Ya didn’t catch us doin’ anything weird.” Majima said, ushering her back in. She looked embarrassed, and Kiryu felt the same way. “I was just bein’ annoying, and gettin’ glared at for it. It’s kinda our thing.”

 Ayako didn’t look any less embarrassed, but she stayed in the kitchen. “I um, just wanted to ask if you needed any help.”

 Kiryu smiled, to offset her embarrassment as much as his own. “We’re okay, thanks. You should go relax. You’ve been a big help already today.”

“Okay.” Ayako said and darted out of the room. As soon as she left the kitchen they could hear her giggling as she ran away. 

“Oops.” Majima said with a guilty smile.

“It’s fine. Nothing happened.” Kiryu said. 

“I wouldn’t say nothin’, not with those eyes.”

 Kiryu reached out and shoved him. They laughed together before getting back to cooking. 

 Twenty minutes later, they all sat down to eat. Izumi looked at Majima for a long moment before speaking. “Eri says that you’re going to visit us again, Uncle Majima.”

“Yep. Might be a while, but yeah.”

 Murmurs erupted around the table. Kiryu heard one of the boys whisper “told you so” but didn’t see which one. 

“How long is a while?” Izumi asked. 

“Dunno yet, small fry. Might be months. I got a lot of work that keeps me busy, and I don’t get to take a lot of vacations.”

“Oh.” she said, sounding deeply disappointed. 

 Majima looked touched by her reaction. “But as soon as I can, I’ll be back. I like it better out here.”

“Even better than Tokyo?” Riona asked, as if the concept was absurd. 

“Of course. You guys are here. That beats the city any day.”

“Is it scary in Kamurocho?” Koji asked. 

 Taichi answered before Majima could. “Not for Snake Mask!”

“Hah, that’s right.” Majima said with a grin. He slapped Kiryu on the shoulder. “There’s only one guy who can beat Snake Mask in a fight, and he doesn’t live in Tokyo.”

 Kiryu smiled. That wasn’t what he’d heard from Saejima, but he wasn’t going to bring that up now.

“I’m going to get even better at baseball by the time you get back, Uncle Majima!” Mitsuo said. Koji nodded in agreement. 

“I know you will. Ya got the talent, just keep practicin’ and you’ll be a star in no time.” Majima said, “that goes for everything the rest of ya are into. Keep followin’ those passions, okay?”

“We’re really going to miss you, Uncle Majima.” Ayako said. The rest of the group murmured in agreement. 

 Kiryu was close enough to see Majima swallow hard, like he was getting emotional, even though his face didn’t show any other signs.

“You’ll miss Uncle Majima too, won’t you Uncle Kaz?” Shiro asked. 

“Yeah. Of course I will.” Kiryu said. He wished he could tell them just how much.

“All right, all right, that’s enough of that.” Majima said, clapping his hands together. “You little monsters are tryna make me all misty-eyed and that ain’t gonna happen. We got a whole other day before we’re even gonna think about goodbyes, right?” The kids nodded. “Good. Now, you kids know I got a construction company?” Again the kids nodded, and Majima smiled, “So I say after we’re done eatin’, we go build us the tallest sandcastle anybody’s ever seen.”

 Majima laughed as the kids yelled in agreement. Kiryu turned to him. “Do I get to help with the sandcastle?”

“We can’t do much without our foreman. Uncle Kaz told ya he used to work for me, right?”

“Yes,” Haruka said, “but that was before everyone knew who you were. We’d love to hear some stories from that time.”

 After another round of agreements, Majima began to tell them about their first encounter with the three musketeers. Kiryu interrupted a couple of times to keep the story family-friendly, but the kids hung on every word. They asked questions long after everyone had finished eating, and once they’d all cleaned up and gone back down to the beach, the evening carried on in the same way as the rest of the day: easy, energetic, and fun. 

Chapter 46: Plans and Dreams

 Kiryu lay comfortably on his back. Majima was propped up on his side next to him, holding his hand and massaging each of his fingers in turn. They’d had a good night with the kids. The challenge of making a very tall sandcastle had been fun, even if it wasn’t successful. By the end, it was decided that big was better than tall, and they made a large complex of castles. After they were finished, they trampled the whole thing before going inside for the night. There had been a lot of laughing, and it felt like a fitting end to a fun day.

“Even a month ago, I never could’ve dreamed of this.” Kiryu said. “I don’t know how I ever got by without you next to me.”

 Majima’s head drooped, his hair brushing against Kiryu’s bare chest. “It ain’t too late to call HQ and tell ‘em I’m dead.”

“Heh, I’d find that pretty suspicious if I were them.”

“Fuck them. We’ll run away. You, me, and all the little ones. Find another beach to live on. One where nobody ever tries to mess with us, or pull us back to any stupid responsibilities.”

 Kiryu smiled. He knew Majima took his duties too seriously do ever run away like that, but still… “It’s a nice dream. We could build a new house, just you and me.”

“With an extra bathroom or two, air conditioning, a dishwasher maybe. I could get my huge-ass bed shipped over.”

“Also suspicious.” Kiryu said. “Plus  someone needs to be a teacher for the kids and it probably shouldn’t be me.”

“Pfft, easy. I got it in the bag. I had a ‘high aptitude for academics’ once upon a time. Gimme some time to study and I’ll be as good as any teacher. And I know a lot of junk they don’t teach ya in school.” Majima climbed on top of him, crossing his arms over Kiryu’s chest. “So do you. You can teach ‘em how to be decent human beings. I’ll handle the rest.”

“I like that the kids factor into this dream.” Kiryu said, trailing his hands over Majima’s back. 

“Course they do.” he replied. “But I’d have to build us a soundproof bedroom with a good lock on the door.”

“Heh, then we’d never get any sleep.”

“Nope.” Majima chuckled and kissed Kiryu’s chest. “This trip’s made me feel at least ten years younger. I haven’t felt this alive since… since ya left town.”

 Kiryu’s heart leapt at that admission. “I’ve never felt more comfortable in my own skin, and that’s all ‘cause of you.”

“Kiryu-chan.” 

“I mean it.”

“I know ya do. That’s the crazy part.” Majima said. “Still hard to believe you’re sayin’ all this to me. I ain’t complainin’, but it’s crazy.”

 Kiryu smiled. “Kiss me.”

 Majima chuckled as Kiryu pulled him forward, his slippery pyjama pants accelerating the process. Majima stopped himself by slapping his hands down on either side of Kiryu’s head, then he leaned in close. Kiryu tilted his head, but just before their lips touched Majima pulled just slightly away. Kiryu opened his eyes and saw the dim blue light glint off of teeth, before Majima leaned in again, this time bypassing his lips completely.

“You better get some good sleep tonight, Kiryu-chan.” Majima whispered in his ear, “Cause I ain’t lettin’ ya get any rest tomorrow.”

 Kiryu grabbed his head with both hands and held it still so he could get the kiss he asked for. Majima laughed softly before their lips touched, then kissed him eagerly as Kiryu’s hands ran through his hair. 

 The idea of tomorrow wrenched him in opposing directions. He hated that they only had one more day together, and knew it would be difficult for all of them when he left the morning after that. Kiryu also knew that they were going to make the most of tomorrow. One entire day to themselves and an evening where the kids were going to cook for them and give Majima the rest of their gifts. He looked forward to Monday just as much as he dreaded Tuesday. 

 It was impressive, the way Majima could sense his mind drifting. He sucked on Kiryu’s bottom lip, then rolled his hips, demanding his full attention. Attention Kiryu was happy to give, even if it was just to make out like repressed teenagers. Kiryu slid his hands over the soft satin pants that covered Majima’s ass and squeezed. Majima smiled against his lips. “If I don’t stop now I’m not gonna want to.”

 Kiryu couldn’t help squeezing his ass again one more time, then moved his hands back up and over his back. “You’re so tempting.” he said, and kissed Majima’s cheek. “Tomorrow I’m going to worship you.”

 Majima buried his face into Kiryu’s neck and let loose a high pitched sound that was dangerously close to a giggle. “Kazzy, ya got me all flustered.”

 Kiryu smiled. “Heh, cute.”

 Majima kissed his neck. “I’m gonna… damn, I can’t do any better than worship, that’s a good one.” He still sounded flustered, and chuckled as he slid back over to Kiryu’s right side.

“I really like these pants.” Kiryu mused.

“You’re gonna love my satin sheets. When you visit, I’ll get ya naked and wrap ya up in ‘em.”

 Kiryu shifted. This topic would only keep him awake, but he didn’t care. “Do you sleep naked at home?”

“Most of the time. Took me years to feel comfortable enough to do it. You keep yer guard up for so long that it’s hard to ever let it down.”

“I understand that.” Kiryu said. A entire decade of his life was spent like that. 

“Knew ya would.” Majima replied warmly, and tightened his grip around Kiryu’s torso. “A few heavy-duty locks on the doors help. When ya visit, we’ll have to spend a day like that. No clothes at all for the whole day.”

“Heh, only one day?” Kiryu asked.

 Majima kissed his chest. “I’ll take any amount of naked Kiryu-chan I can get, but more’s always better.” 

“I look forward to it.” Kiryu said, “I’ve never seen you wear as many shirts as you have in the past two weeks. I didn’t know you owned this many.”

 Majima kissed his chest again. “I did have to get a few just for this trip.” They laughed quietly together, before Majima sighed heavily, “I ain’t lookin’ forward to wearin’ a suit again. Gonna have to on Wednesday afternoon for a bullshit Tojo meeting.”

“On Wednesday afternoon I’ll be helping Eri and Shiro with their book reports, but if you call me before your meeting I’m all yours.”

“I’d rather help with those book reports. But yeah, I’ll call ya. Yer gonna get sick of me callin’ ya.”

“Never.” 

 A pause. “Hard not to feel like this happy bubble’s gonna pop as soon as I leave.”

“It won’t.” Kiryu said firmly. “I love you too much for that to happen.”

“The way ya say that makes me believe you.”

“Good.” Kiryu said. “We’re supposed to be together. Till we are again, we’ll just figure it out as we go.”

“You’re a hell of a man, Kaz.” Majima said. “Why…” 

“Why what?”

 Majima stayed silent for a long moment. “Why didn’t it work out between you and that pretty little cop?”

“Oh, Kaoru? Uh, lots of reasons.” Kiryu said, caught off guard. 

“Yeah? It looked like a done deal.” 

 Kiryu frowned. He didn’t expect to be talking about Kaoru now, but he had nothing to hide. It felt less complicated than talking about Yumi, and he’d already done that. He tried to organize his thoughts. “To start, she was still young, and her career was important to her. Being tied to a yakuza, even an ex-yakuza, isn’t something most cops want in their file.”

“Especially not the clean ones.” Majima agreed. 

“And then there was Haruka. She knew about her, and liked her, she even knew we lived together, but… I don’t think she understood that I was raising her by myself on a permanent basis.”

“Ah, she didn’t know uncle meant dad.”

“Pretty much. You’re sure you’re okay hearing about this?” Kiryu asked, squeezing his arm. 

“Yep. Go on.” Majima urged. 

 Kiryu wondered how to word this without sounding weak. “2006 wasn’t an easy year. After it was all over, Kaoru and I were together, and we liked each other, but the biggest thing we had in common was tragedy. I was trying to… get over my own problems, and trying to make it work with Haruka, who was angry at me for the way I handled things.” He paused. Angry was putting it lightly. Haruka had felt betrayed and left behind. It had taken time and a few uncomfortable conversations to get through it. 

 “I had to get away from Tokyo, and Haruka needed to be somewhere where people weren’t talking about the Millennium Tower. By the time we decided to take this position and move, it felt like a relief that the relationship was on its way out too.”

 It felt like he’d been talking too long, and maybe too personally. Majima was quiet for what felt like a long time. “So it wasn’t the distance?”

“No.” Kiryu said quickly. “It didn’t help, but it wasn’t what ended things. We broke it off on good terms. Last I heard she had an American boyfriend.”

 Majima nodded his head against Kiryu’s chest. 

“It’s different with you. Completely different.” Kiryu added. “I’ve never felt this way about anybody. You haven’t even left yet and I…” He couldn’t finish that thought. He didn’t need to. Majima moved quickly, caressing his cheek as he leaned their foreheads together. 

“I know, Kaz. I know.” he whispered, and tilted Kiryu’s head with his hand before their lips met, a long, needy kiss that expressed everything he hadn’t said. They moved together in a slow, passionate embrace that neither of them made a move to escalate, despite Majima ending up on top of him again. Tomorrow they’d have time, but oh, the motion of Majima’s hot, hard body was making it difficult to wait till then.  

 It was Majima who pulled away first, pressing his forehead to Kiryu’s again. “Yer killin’ me, Kaz. How am I supposed to sleep?”

 Kiryu hugged him and moved Majima back to his side. “We’ll survive.”

 Majima chuckled and rested his head on Kiryu’s shoulder. “Probably. I meant to tell ya before, but they still do tag team tournaments in Purgatory, if ya ever wanted to take Dragon Mask out for a more mature audience.”

“No, that’s… well, maybe.” Kiryu said. Before this visit he would have shut that idea down, but now? Fighting together had been fun, and the coliseum was a good source of income. “Maybe someday, but not when I see you in august. I wouldn’t want the wrong people knowing I’m in town.”

“How ‘bout the right people?”

 Kiryu paused, “I’ll have to think about it. There are people I’d like to see, but I don’t want to set anything in stone.”

“So ya wouldn’t mind if I kept ya all to myself?” Majima asked. There was a hint of something in his voice. Something that told Kiryu that this question was more important than he let on. He wondered if he would have picked up on that a week ago. 

“It won’t be the last time I visit Kamurocho. I’m going there in August to be with you, and that’s what I’m going to do.” Kiryu said. “It’ll be a lot nicer than the last few times I’ve been back.”

“Great.” Majima said, sounding… relieved, maybe? “So we’ll watch TV, drink too much, get food delivered, and stay in bed all day.” 

“Perfect.” Kiryu said. It did sound perfect, like a real vacation. Had he ever taken one of those?

“And if we get bored, maybe I’ll let ya out so you can go see people.”

“Heh, you’ll let me, huh?” Kiryu asked. 

 Majima chuckled. “Maybe. If you’re good.”

“I’m not planning on being good.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima bucked his hips against Kiryu’s thigh. “I’m tryna get to sleep, Kiryu-chan.” he complained, drawing out his name. 

 Kiryu sighed. “I could stay up all night talking to you and be very happy.”

“That’s sweet as fuck, darlin’, but I ain’t about to waste the day by sleepin’ in tomorrow.”

“Me neither.”

 Majima was quiet for a moment, then grabbed him tight. “Hey Kiryu-chan, remember when ya hit that guy for me?”

“Heh, yeah.”

 They talked a while longer, growing tired as they mused about what they’d do during Kiryu’s august visit. Some practical ideas, some wishful thinking, most of which included some kind of rooftop fight. During a lull in the conversation, Majima’s breathing slowly changed as he fell asleep. Kiryu, content and tired, soon followed, slipping into a hazy dream that he would forget as soon as he woke.

Chapter 47: Monday, 4:56am

 Kiryu awoke to a frightened noise. There was just enough light in the room to see Majima, who was curled up and facing away from him. His whole body was rigid, and his hands were in fists. He made another noise that ended on the word ‘no’ and grabbed at his lower abdomen. Kiryu gently placed his hand on Majima’s tense shoulder.

“Goro, wake up.” Kiryu said, and slowly shook his arm. 

 Majima jolted and sat up, eye wide but unseeing, one hand on the scarred skin under his navel, the other ready to punch. 

“You’re okay.” Kiryu said. He stayed still as Majima, breathing heavily, blinked his way fully awake. He took his hand away from his abdomen and looked at it like he was checking for blood, then looked at Kiryu. His fist slowly unclenched. 

“Shit, sorry.” he said, and slumped forward.

 Kiryu sat up and took him in his arms. “You’re okay.” he repeated. 

 Majima’s heart was beating so fast that Kiryu could feel it through his skin. “Fuckin’ embarrassing’s what it is.” he muttered, his face pressed against Kiryu’s shoulder. 

 Kiryu rubbed his back. “If you think I’m going to judge you for that, you don’t know me as well as you think.”

 Majima clung to him instead of answering, taking deep breaths to regulate his heart. Kiryu guided them back down to the futon, in no hurry to let go.

 It made Kiryu furious to think about what he must have gone through. He’d heard about it second-hand, from rumours and when Saejima had taken him aside before the last time he left the Kamurocho. While Saejima had explained in detail about how the eye was taken, Majima had only told this sworn brother so much. Just that they’d kept him in the hole, that horrible place only whispered about back when Kiryu had first joined. The place where men were sent away to be tortured and killed.

He asked Kazama about it only once. He could still remember his reply. 

 It’s not a place you’ll ever need to worry about, so long as you do as I say. 

 At the time it had made him feel proud. He knew Kazama-san didn’t run his family that way, and Kiryu knew that as long as he followed his guidance, his pops wouldn’t steer him wrong. Years later, he wondered why a man of honour and high status like Kazama had allowed a place like that to exist. In 2006, in a moment where Kiryu’s frustration outweighed his loyalty, he thought back on that sentence and wondered if it might have been a threat he hadn’t picked up on at the time. What he wouldn’t give to have one last conversation with his mentor.

 But that wasn’t important right now. He had Majima in his arms, and he was going to do whatever he could to make sure he was alright. “I won’t let anything happen to you.” he whispered. “That’s a promise.”

 Majima was holding on so tight that it was starting to hurt, but thankfully it wasn’t long before he let go. “Thanks, Kaz.” he replied. He didn’t make eye contact, but Kiryu didn’t mind. They lay on their sides, facing each other. Majima held one of his hands in both of his own, examining it carefully, then he kissed the knuckles. “I told ya before, there’s stuff in my life I don’t think I’ll ever be able to talk about, but it feels weird sayin’ nothin’.”

“We’ve known each other a long time,” Kiryu said, “but we’ve only been together for two weeks. You don’t have to tell me everything before you leave. We’re still just getting started.”

“You’re so…” Majima said, closing his eyes. “You know I spent a year in the hole?” 

“Yeah.” 

“After that, they made me buy my way back into the Tojo. I was put in charge of the Grand, and to do my job I had to, I dunno how to describe it, not block it out, but I had to turn off the part of my brain that was in that place. I lost who I was down there, and the three years after that felt like… shit, I don’t know. Numb ain’t the right word. I couldn’t sleep, barely ate, my whole body was like a raw nerve. I should be over it, but those fucking dreams. The eye ones are bad enough, but, fuck, everything after that...”

 He spoke quickly, but Kiryu wasn’t about to interrupt or ask for clarification. He just continued to keep him close. 

“Even when things are goin’ good, especially when things are goin’ good, I start gettin’ the dreams again, like my brain’s tellin’ me to not get too comfortable, because it all could get taken away.”

 Kiryu touched his cheek, and for the first time, Majima looked him in the eye. “Nobody’s taking me from you. Anyone who ever could’ve is dead and gone.” Kiryu said firmly. “And I’d like to see anyone else try.” 

 A smile broke through Majima’s grief-stricken face. “Kaz, you’re too good to me.”

“I’m going to spend all day being good to you.”

“Ya better not.” chuckled Majima, sounding more like himself, “after all yer talk last night about not bein’ good when ya come see me, I don’t need good today. I need ya to tear me in half.”

 Kiryu smiled and kissed his cheek, keeping his face close. “I’ll see what I can do. It’s still early.”

“Right, fuck.” Majima said after looking at the clock. “Hold on to me, Kazuma. That’s all I need right now.”

 Kiryu laid back down on his back and wrapped his arms around his partner, who nestled into his shoulder, hand on his chest. He’d never get tired of the feeling of Majima’s breath on his skin. 

 They stayed that way for a while, but neither of them were sleeping. Majima had grown tense again, and a couple of times Kiryu wondered if he was going to say something. Finally, Majima took a deep breath. “I burned that place to the fucking ground.”

“What?” 

“The hole. It was the basement of a warehouse, but the whole building went up in smoke.” Majima said. He took another deep breath. “It was the first time I ever did anything that big behind the boss’s back. And I was good. Damn good. I laid down so many dead ends and false leads. Took me three years of planning, pretending I was nothin’ but a wild dog.” He took another deep breath. “I used every connection I had, got a few Omi guys involved, even though they didn’t know it was me behind it. Lots of burnt letters and calls from pay phones.”

 Kiryu was shocked. “A lot of the clan didn’t believe the hole was a real place. Over time we stopped hearing rumours about it, but I didn’t know that was because of you.”

“Nobody did. This is the first time I’ ve told anybody about this.” Majima said, just above a whisper, “I couldn’t talk about that place at the best of times, and back then, if it got out that I was involved, the higher-ups would’ve had my head on the chopping block so fast.”

“When did this happen?”

“February of ‘94. Me and a group busted in, grabbed the poor bastards who were in there, and torched the place.”

“Good for you.”

“One of them died on us just from the shock of being moved, but we saved the other seven. Sent ‘em to a hospital way out west. Most of that part was on the Omi dime, but I financed the rest myself. Everybody used to think I was shit with money, and that’s exactly what I wanted ‘em to think.”

“What happened to the men you saved?” Kiryu asked. 

“Dunno. I couldn’t risk checking. It was enough to know they didn’t die in that living nightmare.”

“I bet they thought you were a hero, even if they didn’t know who you were.”

“I ain’t a hero, I did that shit for me. I couldn’t keep living with that sword hangin’ over my head. I was makin’ a name for myself, but I knew if I ever screwed up bad enough, or tried to surpass the boss, Shimano or Dojima would throw me right back in. I wasn’t gonna let that happen. Ever.” He was growing tense again. Kiryu rubbed circles into his back, which seemed to help. 

“Not a lot of people who went through what you did would go back there for any reason.”

“You can’t imagine, Kaz.” Majima said bitterly. “The smell of that place alone… I almost didn’t make it through the door. Then, seein’ those poor bastards, half-starved and hangin’ by their wrists…” he shuddered, “But I had to be there myself. Had to see it burn. It’s gone and even with the nightmares, I slept a lot better once it was gone. And knowing I did it right under that shithead’s nose was a damn good feeling too.”

 Kiryu ran his hand through Majima’s hair. “You saved lives. The people you got out that day, your own, and anyone else who might have ended up there.”

“I’ve done a lot of awful shit, but… yeah, I guess I did some good that day.” Majima said, sounding as if that had never occurred to him before.

“Did Shimano ever suspect?”

“Of course. I was at the top of his shit list. He was loud and vicious, but everybody underestimated just how smart he was. There wasn’t any proof, nothin’ tying me to any of it. I had a rock-solid alibi, and I’d never given him a reason to doubt my loyalty. Fuck, I was still loyal, even then, even through all of that, I still looked up to that shit-stain. He couldn’t prove it was me, but he did send me on a long string of jobs nobody else wanted for ‘bout two years afterwards. Lots of travelling so he could investigate me when I was’t around. Once I got home and my apartment had been ‘robbed’. But he never found a thing.”

“I forgot that you disappeared for a while before I was locked up.”

“Yeah.” Majima said with a chuckle, sounding a little more relaxed. “I got to see some pretty countryside, oversee a few shipping operations, and for about five months I managed a warehouse where they made shady pachinko machines. Shimano sent three of his best lackies with me for that trip, all tryin’ to get me to admit I was involved. I saw through that shit right away.”

“Of course you did.” Kiryu said, his hand running through Majima’s hair. “Everyone underestimates how smart you are too.”

 Majima leaned forward and kissed him. “Thanks, Kaz. I had to be extra careful ‘cause they kept takin’ me out to party, but joke’s on them. By the time we got back to Kamurocho I had enough dirt on all three that they couldn’t say a word against me even if they did suspect.”

“What kind of dirt?” Kiryu asked.

“The usual kind. One of them was skimming some cash for himself, the second guy… shit, I forget, something else to do with money. The third guy I ended up in bed with, that I remember.” 

“You’ve always been good with people, when you want to be.” Kiryu said. “You had me convinced you were just a mad dog, at least up until I went to prison.”

“I almost followed ya in. Those years were a long, silent war between ol’ Shimano and me. I might’ve been loyal, but I won’t say the whole ‘offing a patriarch’ thing didn’t get damn tempting.”

 He sounded like he was joking, but Kiryu shook his head. “I’m glad you didn’t. I only got out when I did because I kept my head down. I don’t think you would’ve liked doing that.”

“I don’t know, what if we shared a cell? We coulda ruled that place.”

“Heh, even so, this is a lot more comfortable. And the food’s better.”

 Majima looked up at him and smiled, looking at ease for the first time that morning. “No place I’d rather be. Feels weird to get that off my chest after so long, but I’m glad you know.”

 Kiryu kissed him, then together they closed their eyes to try to get another hour of sleep. After a few minutes, Majima was snoring on his shoulder, but Kiryu couldn’t get back to sleep. His anger on Majima’s behalf was strong, and it took him a while to calm down. He kept thinking about how many years Majima had spent fighting for his freedom. That even when he was having fun and running wild, there was a sharp, calculating mind working towards his goals. Kiryu still couldn’t wrap his head about some of his logic, driving a truck into a soapland came to mind, but he understood Majima better than he ever had, and he admired him all the more. 

Chapter 48: Keepsakes

 It was the last full day before Majima had to go and Kiryu was trying to focus on the positive. Majima would leave tomorrow not as his rival, or just as his friend, but as his partner. They’d talk on the phone, and Kiryu had a visit in August, which was less than two months away. They’d gone months, years without seeing each other. This wouldn’t be so bad, would it?

 Kiryu looked at the sleeping figure curled around him. He looked so at peace, a far cry from an hour ago. Kiryu closed his eyes. He was kidding himself. Being here without Majima would be extremely difficult. Kiryu leaned in and kissed his forehead. Majima stirred, and looked up at him. “Kiryu-chan.”

“The alarm’s about to go off. I thought this would be better than-”

 The alarm interrupted him, and he reached overtop of Majima to turn it off. Majima slung a hand over him after the noise stopped and hugged him tight. “Thanks, darlin’. That’s about as nice a wake up call as it gets.” he said groggily before they sat up together and started their day.

 The kids were quiet around the breakfast table, even more so than a usual Monday morning. Majima had opted to go without his eyepatch this morning. As with the last time he’d done so, the younger kids either didn't notice or didn’t care. Haruka and Ayako, who did notice, shared a smile with him, but didn’t bring it up. 

 As they ate, Eri tried once again to get Taichi to tell her what he and Shiro were making for dinner. After Taichi received a hard look from Haruka, he told Eri she’d have to wait just a little longer. Kiryu nodded at him. This was probably the longest Taichi had ever gone without spilling a secret. Shiro was also doing a good job, but he wasn’t half as loud or outgoing. He’d have to compliment both of them if they made it to dinner without letting Majima know. 

“Come on, Eri-chan,” Majima said, “it’s more fun if we get surprised, isn’t it?”

 Eri didn’t look convinced, but she nodded. Kiryu found it funny how the kids always agreed with Majima. It was sweet, especially when Majima was being helpful. 

 After breakfast, the backpacks and supplies were gathered, and the kids were ready to run off to school. Kiryu and Majima waved to them as they left, then walked back to the kitchen, starting on the dishes as per the usual routine. They were fast, quiet and efficient, and took turns washing their hands after the last dish was cleaned. 

 Before their hands were even dry, they were on each other. Much like their first morning together, Kiryu hoisted Majima onto the kitchen counter and kissed his neck. Majima hummed his approval.

“It’s been too long, Kaz.” Majima said with a sigh, closing his legs around Kiryu’s waist.

“It’s only been a day and a half.” Kiryu said against his throat.

 Majima’s legs tightened around him. “Exactly. Way too long.”

“Heh, yeah.” 

 Kiryu slid his hands under Majima’s thighs and pulled him away from the counter. He held him tight in his arms, determined to take him to their room like that. Majima made another noise of approval, and clung to him. “Wouldn’t let ya get away with this at my place. We wouldn’t’ve made it outta the kitchen.”

“Well, we’re in my house, so we’re doing this my way.”

 It was an offhand remark, but Majima’s laughed wildly in his ear. “Can’t wait to see what your way is, Kaz. I’m already burnin’ for ya. Lemme down.”

 Majima wriggled out of his grasp, opened the door to their room, then grabbed his arm and pulled him inside. Kiryu slid the door closed behind him and it slammed shut due to his enthusiasm. Majima chuckled, and Kiryu had to inspect the door to make sure nothing was broken. While he was doing so, strong arms wrapped around him, and Majima rested his chin on top of his shoulder.

“All good?” Majima asked, then licked the side of his neck. 

“All good.” he replied, and touched the arm that was slung over his shoulder. Majima’s other hand snuck under his shirt and ran along his stomach as his goatee scratched against the back of his neck. Kiryu sighed. It felt good to be held, especially by someone so tall and muscular. Kiryu still couldn’t believe how strong that made him feel.  

 Majima strengthened his grip and pressed a kiss to his neck. “We’re doin’ things your way, gorgeous, so you’re in charge. That means I’ll do anything ya want.” he unfastened the bottom button of Kiryu’s shirt. “Anything new, or anything we’ve done that ya want to do again.” He undid the next button up. “Ya know I’m game.” He kissed the top of Kiryu’s shoulder as he undid the last two buttons, then ran his hand over his chest. “and I’m ready to give or take. Tell what ya need, Kiryu-chan.”

“I can’t think when you do that.” Kiryu said as Majima squeezed his left pectoral. “But… to start, I’m going to want you on your knees.”

 He felt a shiver run through Majima as he pressed against him from behind. He licked Kiryu’s neck again. “Darlin’, if you only knew how easy it’s always been for you to get me on my knees.”

 Kiryu’s head swam. He’d have to revisit that thought at a later date. “You should take your clothes off first.”

 Majima chuckled, a deep sound that reverberated through both of them. He turned Kiryu around and pulled him the lapels of his open shirt till they both stood on the futon. Kiryu had put a towel down right after the kids had left, and Majima looked down and smiled at it. Kiryu took a step back. He wanted to watch Majima get naked for him. 

 Majima’s fingers trailed over the buttons of his own shirt, as he slowly unbuttoned it, then shrugged it off. It fell to the floor, and Majima’s hands went to the button on his pants. “More?” he asked, with faux innocence. 

“Yeah.” 

 Majima undid the button, and unzipped the shorts he was wearing slowly, till they fell to the floor as well. He wore his bright green briefs, which outlined his already growing arousal. He roughly grabbed himself. “More?”

“More.” Kiryu said, his eyes glued to Majima’s hand, which was dipping inside the waistband of his underwear. As soon as he spoke, Majima pulled them down, then stood in front of him with nothing on but a smug smile. 

“Good. A-and now mine.” Kiryu said, his voice faltering slightly in nervous anticipation. He’d been waiting for this moment all morning. 

 Majima stepped close, and ran both hands up Kiryu’s bare chest to his shoulders, then pushed his open shirt off and away. Kiryu let it fall. “More.” he said, before Majima could even ask. Their eyes met and Majima looked pleased, He slid his hands back down his chest, pausing to squeeze his pecs again, then he undid the button on Kiryu’s tan pants, and unzipped. 

“Ooh!” Majima said with an excited laugh, “Kazzy, you’re spoilin’ me again.”

 He let the pants fall around Kiryu’s ankles, leaving him standing in only his red wrestling shorts. It was a spur of the moment decision he’d made that morning while Majima was off in the shower, and by the look on his face, Kiryu knew it had been a good decision.

“Kiss me.” Kiryu said, and Majima was against him in an flash, his arms thrown around his neck. His bare skin felt hot and firm, electric and so incredibly seductive. Kiryu held him tight as their tongues met, shamelessly licking at each other’s mouths between rough kisses till they could barely breathe. Kiryu pulled back first, but held their hips together. 

“More.” Majima growled. It wasn’t a question. Kiryu nodded, and Majima slowly slid down his body to his knees, licking his chest as he descended. 

“Last week you said you wanted to put a mark on me.” Kiryu said. Majima looked sharply up. “Anywhere under the shorts is all yours.”

“Oh, fuck me.” Majima said, touching the hem of the shorts with reverence. 

“Heh, we’ll get to that soon.”

 Majima threw his head back and laughed. Kiryu watched his abdominal muscles contract as he leaned back, then brought himself forward to kiss his right knee, planting wet kisses up Kiryu’s leg till he reached the bottom of his shorts. He pulled the fabric up and kissed his upper thigh, right below where his leg met his torso. “Found my spot.” Majima murmured, and sucked hard, over and over again. Kiryu took a deep breath. It felt like all the blood in his body rushed to his groin. He touched Majima’s head, running his hand through his hair till he gave his thigh one last lick. 

“There ya go.” Majima purred, holding the shorts out of the away so Kiryu could see. 

“Hmm.” Kiryu said bending to look. There was a small, oval-shaped bruise on his right upper thigh. “I didn’t think it would show up yet.”

“This ain’t a regular bruise.” Majima said. He rose up higher on his knees and touched Kiryu’s left hip bone. He pulled the shorts down and kissed down past where the waistband sat. One hand held the shorts in place, the other snaked between his legs, keeping a firm grip on his ass as he sucked a new bruise into his skin. Kiryu couldn’t look away. He hadn’t understood this before, but now, with Majima so close to leaving, he understood the appeal of leaving a non-painful mark that wasn’t from fighting or sparring, but something else entirely. Majima kissed over the bruise, then rubbed his face against the front of Kiryu’s shorts, which were growing tighter by the second.

“Let me sit down.” Kiryu said. He needed to be closer. Needed to kiss him.

 Majima, who was admiring the new mark, took his hand and pulled till Kiryu sat next to him. As soon as he did, Majima took his face between his hands and kissed him deeply. Kiryu moved him into his lap, moaning into his mouth when Majima straddled him. “Spoiled fuckin’ rotten today.” he mused, slowly rolling his hips as they both caught their breath. 

 Kiryu traced his lips with one finger, holding him still by the neck with his other hand. “You turn me on,” he said, watching the movement of those soft, perfect lips under his touch, “more than anyone ever has.” 

 Majima sucked the finger into his mouth, his tongue swirling as if to prove Kiryu’s point. Kiryu let him for a moment, then pulled his finger away. With the same finger, he circled Majima’s left nipple. Majima shut his eye and his head fell back. Kiryu licked his chest, moving his tongue along the edge of the tattoo till he kissed the other nipple, pinching both with his hand and his teeth the way he knew Majima liked. 

“Ah, Kaz.” Majima said. Kiryu’s other hand trailed down Majima’s back, and cupped the lean muscle of his bare ass. Majima shifted forward again, rubbing himself against Kiryu’s lap. 

“I need to get out of these shorts.” Kiryu said. Majima lifted himself off and to the side, so Kiryu could pull off the shorts and throw them near the rest of their discarded clothes. As he did, Majima pulled his bag over and pulled out the lube bottle.

 Once the shorts were gone, Majima, kneeling beside him, touched the mark he’d made on Kiryu’s thigh. “Tell me you’ll look at this and think about me.”

“I’ll never stop thinking about you.” Kiryu said, and touched his arm. Majima looked at him impatiently, and Kiryu remembered he was waiting to be told what to do. “C-can I…”

 Majima nodded before he said any more, and Kiryu decided it was easier to show him what he wanted. He leaned back on one elbow and pulled Majima’s leg till he swung it overtop him so he was on all fours, facing away from Kiryu. “Now what, Kazzy?” Majima asked. 

“I want..” Kiryu started. He was annoyed at himself for still feeling shy about asking what he wanted, but he pushed through his hesitation and pulled Majima’s ass down towards his face. 

“Oh, really? Oh fuck.” Majima said as Kiryu spread his cheeks apart. “Use the lube, Kaz.” he said quickly, “Ya know my hygiene’s top-notch, but it’s yer first time doin’ this and-”

“Okay.” Kiryu said calmly, and took the bottle from Majima’s hand. Kiryu wasn’t sure why Majima sounded nervous, but he decided to take his time. The hygiene lesson Majima had given him after they first started having sex had been clinical and awkward, but definitely less embarrassing than if they hadn’t gone over any of it. Kiryu pushed all that aside and focused on what was in front of him. He squeezed some of the coconut flavoured lube onto his fingers. Putting the bottle aside, he cupped Majima’s ass with one hand, holding him steady where he waited on his hands and knees. Slowly, he let his slick fingers feel in between the cheeks, caressing the delicate pink skin. Majima made a low noise, but stayed still. Kiryu guided him down till he was nearly seated on top of him. He still sensed some hesitancy from Majima, but his breathing grew quick as Kiryu first placed a soft kiss on the inner edge of his tattoo. He extended his tongue, and ran it along the skin towards Majima’s hole, then gave it a long lick. 

 Majima made a high-pitched sound unlike anything he’d heard before. He grasped hold of Kiryu’s thigh and held it hard. Kiryu repeated the motion with his tongue. Majima shivered in response. He was so hard, and now there was no mistaking that what Kiryu had interpreted as nervousness was actually anticipation. Kiryu swirled his tongue and Majima made that delicious sound again. He dipped his head and Kiryu could feel his hair brush against his thigh before Majima licked his cock. Almost in unison, they both groaned. Majima was panting as Kiryu lapped at the tense, tight muscle, making sounds that were growing closer to whimpers. Kiryu continued for another minute till he started to worry about Majima hyperventilating. He stopped and pulled himself up into a sitting position. He brought Majima into his lap again, facing away from him. He melted, leaning his head back against his shoulder as Kiryu hugged him from behind. 

“Catch your breath.” Kiryu murmured, and kissed his neck. 

“I’m fine.” Majima said between gasping breaths, but aside from squirming a little, he did what he was told and breathed deeply. Once he was more calm, Kiryu couldn’t help sliding both hands between his legs. He took hold of Majima’s cock, still rock hard, and pumped it slowly. 

“You okay, Goro?” 

“Nobody ever did that for me.” Majima said, then moaned when Kiryu held him tighter. “Always wanted it, but nobody… fuck, Kaz, that feels so good.”

“Nobody?” Kiryu asked. “You should have asked me.” With his free hand, he found the lube bottle again and squirted it over Majima’s erection. That earned him another moan. 

“I’m havin’ the best time with you. I ain’t missing’ out.”

“I’m not done.” Kiryu said into Majima’s ear, “I didn’t want you passing out on me.”

 Majima wriggled his ass till Kiryu’s cock was between his cheeks, then gripped his thighs again. “It was, ahh, unexpected. I told ya to do what you wanted, I didn’t think…” He trailed off and bucked his hips into Kiryu’s hand. 

“I told you, I want to worship you.” Kiryu said, squeezing the base of his cock. “But I need you to breathe.”

 A delirious laugh escaped Majima’s lips. “Anything you want, gorgeous.”

“Can you get on your hands and knees again?” Kiryu asked. 

“Fuck, that voice.” Majima said. Kiryu released him, and Majima leapt forward onto his hands and knees. He looked back and grinned. “Like this, Kazzy?” 

 Kiryu kneeled behind him. “Yeah, just like this.” The way all those lean muscles rippled under all that bright ink made Kiryu’s head swim. He reminded himself that he also needed to breathe, then licked along the tattooed spiral Majima’s lower left side, prompting a frenzied, joyful laugh when Majima realized what he was doing. Kiryu nudged his inner thigh, and Majima spread his legs a little more for him. He cupped his balls with one hand, and spread him apart with the other. 

“Breathe.” Kiryu reminded Majima as well as himself, and leaned his face in. He licked at the puckered skin once more. Majima gasped. The noises he was making were driving Kiryu crazy. When he finally pulled his mouth away, he replaced it with a slick finger, and pressed inside. 

“…everything I ever wanted….” Majima mumbled in-between enthusiastic noises. “More, Kaz. Fuck.”

“You’re so hot.” Kiryu said as Majima arched his back. Any earlier hesitation was gone, and Majima was far more relaxed despite his excitement. Kiryu added a second finger, and a third soon after. He was getting better at this, he thought to himself as he found Majima’s prostate, massaging him from the inside as Majima writhed and gasped and tried to keep still. “Relax your arms.” 

 Majima grabbed their pillows and held them to himself. He twisted his neck the right to watch. Kiryu gently pulled his fingers out and grabbed the bottle. He saturated both of them with the sweet-smelling lube, and Majima moaned at the touch. Seeing him glistening and ready for him only increased Kiryu’s excitement. 

 He took his cock in his hand and traced along the edges of Majima’s tattoos. Majima groaned impatiently, and Kiryu knew neither of them could wait any longer. He guided himself carefully inside. Even with the care he’d taken to prepare him, Majima was so tight. Kiryu slid in slowly, as Majima’s hands gripped the pillow in front of him. 

“You’re okay?” he asked.

“Yeah.” Majima answered breathlessly. “S’too good, Kaz. I’m tryna be still for ya.”

“I didn’t ask you to be still, did I?” Kiryu asked. He pulled nearly all the way out and waited. Majima smiled and pushed himself back, till Kiryu was fully inside him. Majima’s mouth fell open and Kiryu shuddered as pleasure shot through him. 

“Yes, fuck.” Majima hissed. “Give it to me, Kaz.”

 Kiryu drove in again, over snd over. Majima met his every thrust, surrounding him in his intense, searing heat. “You feel so good.” Kiryu said. “I can’t tell you how much-”

“I can feel it.” Majima said. “I know.”

 Kiryu needed him closer. He leaned forward and wrapped his arms around Majima’s waist, holding tight. He rested his head against Majima’s back, pushing him further down into the bedding as they moved together. He was too overcome to speak, and the only sounds in the room were their laboured breathing and the lewd slapping of their bodies. 

 As the pace increased, Kiryu still needed more. Still on his knees, he straightened up and pulled Majima up with him so he too was on his knees in front of him, his legs on the outside of Kiryu’s. With a loud moan, Majima arched backwards against his chest, letting his head loll back against Kiryu’s left shoulder. With a shaky hand, Kiryu grabbed the lube. He tossed the bottle aside and reached around till his soaking wet fingers closed around Majima’s shaft. Majima made that beautiful desperate whimper that nearly set him off. He licked at Majima’s neck as he sped up again, then bit down into the top of his shoulder. The reaction was instantaneous. 

“Kaz, ah, I’m coming. Oh fuck!” Majima gasped. Kiryu could feel as Majima shook and clenched, shooting forth onto the towel below. The sight drove Kiryu out of his mind. He let himself go and with a few more powerful thrusts, he came with a loud grunt, holding Majima as close to him as possible as he slowed to a stop.

 Majima leaned his weight back against him, chest heaving as he caught his breath. Kiryu wasn’t sure how much time had passed, but he knew he had to get off his knees. He slowly pulled out, then, still holding Majima in his arms, turned and laid them both down on their sides. He folded up the towel, gently cleaned them up, then held Majima flush against him. Despite the heat and the sweat, Kiryu needed him close. The emotions that welled up were overwhelming. “I love you, Goro.” he whispered, “I love you.”  

 Majima’s hand found his and held it. “Love ain’t a strong enough word.” 

 

 After they’d caught their breath and cleaned up, Kiryu went outside to the front step for a cigarette. Majima followed him closely, keeping a hand on him as much as he could. Even outside, in view of the road, they kept their knees touching. 

 It was another warm day, and Kiryu leaned back, looking out at the ocean. He hadn’t bothered buttoning his shirt, and the cool breeze was refreshing. He could feel Majima watching him. 

“Do I have something on my face?” he asked. 

“Nah, you’re just hot.” Majima said fondly, “I couldn’t stop lookin’ at ya if I tried. The only time you’ve ever looked better was about fifteen minutes ago.”

“Heh, you weren’t facing me fifteen minutes ago.”

 Majima laughed and knocked their knees together. “You’re a dream come true, Kaz. I hate to leave, but I got a lotta memories that’ll help keep me warm at night.”

 Kiryu nodded. “I’m so glad you came.” Majima looked at him and snickered. “Shut up, you know what I mean.”

“Oh, don’t worry Kiryu-chan, I’ll come again.” Majima said. He leaned in and leered at him, “I’m plannin’ on comin’ again real soon.”

“Okay, I get it.” Kiryu said with a laugh and pushed him away. Majima let himself fall back on the step, laughing like he’d told a much funnier joke. Kiryu rolled his eyes, then pulled him back to a sitting position. 

“Before I forget,” Majima said, sounding more serious, “that blade I brought with me. If ya got a safe spot for it, I thought I might keep it here. It could be my Okinawa dagger.”

“Yeah, I have…” he trailed off. Kiryu knew exactly where they could keep it, but he couldn’t help feeling hesitant. “I’ll show you.”

 They finished their smokes, then Majima followed him back into the bedroom. Kiryu opened his closet and dug around till he found his large metal lockbox, only slightly dented from when the house was brought down on top of it last year. He put it down on the low table, where Majima was sitting, bright red tanto in his hand. Kiryu put in the combination and opened the latches. He still felt hesitant, but he fought against that feeling. 

“What’s this, Kiryu-chan’s treasure chest?” Majima asked. 

“Something like that.” Kiryu replied and opened the case. Inside was his small batch of valuables. A stack of Komaki’s handbooks, a white lotus comb, several amulets, talismans and lucky bracelets, and an assortment of other odds and ends from the last five years. 

 Majima put the knife down on the table and reached into the case. He picked up a framed picture of Kiryu next to Kazama and Nishiki. “Look at that, you’re so young!”

“We were still in school.” Kiryu said. He’d always liked that photo, but he still couldn’t bring himself to display it. 

“Is this the same shot Kazama had in his office?” Majima said. 

“Yeah. It’s the same copy. Kashiwagi gave it to me after they died.” Kiryu replied. “I didn’t think you would’ve spent enough time in Kazama’s office to recognize it.”

“Please, there ain’t a Tojo family office I haven’t scoped out at some point.” Majima said. Kiryu wanted to know more about that, but for now he stayed silent. Majima smiled at the photo. “This is adorable. Got anymore pictures? I wanna see baby Kazuma.”

“I don’t have any more.”

“Really?” Majima asked. He picked up a loose Pocket Circuit wheel, then looked around at the fairly sparse room, then back to the case. “Is this…? Kaz, is this box all you’ve got?”

 Kiryu had already decided to tell him the whole story if he asked. It only seemed fair after everything Majima had shared with him. “Pretty much. I had a packed apartment before I went to prison. From what I heard…” Kiryu paused. This was still hard to talk about, despite his determination to do so. He took a breath. “Apparently, Nishiki took care of my rent for the first year, but after that he… stopped. The landlord said he refused to take his calls, so by the time I got out, everything I had was either sold or thrown out.”

 Majima looked furious. One hand balled up into a fist. “Of all the fuckin’ awful things to do to a guy. After what ya did for him, he should’ve-” Majima grit his teeth and looked away. “I promised myself I wouldn’t shit-talk him in front of you, but it ain’t easy.”

“Thanks.” Kiryu said, “It still feels… complicated.” He wanted to speak on it further but he wasn’t sure what to say.

“I’ll keep my trap shut about it, but for fuck’s sake! Everything ya had? Everything? If I’d known, if anybody else had known, that never would’ve happened.”

 Kiryu nodded. “Kashiwagi said the same thing to me when he found out. But it’s fine. That apartment was a mess, anyway.”

 Majima took a deep breath, and only then did his fist unclench. He clapped his hands together. “Okay, what do you miss from that apartment? What can I replace?”

“Nothing.” he said. Majima frowned and touched his arm. “I mean it. Out of everything I lost, the apartment was the least important. It was just stuff.”

“If that’s what ya wanna tell yerself.” Majima said. He shook his head, then reached back into the case for one of Komaki’s books. As he picked it up, it nudged a shiny piece of metal. Majima froze as he stared down at Yumi’s ring, then he opened the book and flipped through the pages as if nothing had happened. 

“Look. I think this move was adapted from one of the fights I had with the old man.” Majima said, holding the page open. 

Kiryu nodded at it, then reached over and picked Majima’s dagger up off the table. “There.” he said as he placed it in the case. “Now I have something for everyone I care about in here.”

 Majima shot him a hard look. “Come on, Kiryu-chan, I ain’t that sensitive.”

“I know.” Kiryu said, even though that wasn’t a hundred percent true. “And anyway, I think I have something else in here...”

 He searched through the large case, past his envelope of emergency cash, and other important keepsakes he’d collected in the past four and a half years: Reina’s business card, a photo of Shinji that his fiancée had given him after he died, a recent news article Date wrote, a recruitment poster for Four Shine. Underneath Nishiki’s lighter, which Kiryu only had because it was in his pocket the night he was arrested, was a stack of photo booth pictures. They were mostly of him and Haruka, and him and the kids, but near the bottom of the pile was one of just Kiryu, with Majima’s wild, smiling face peeking in from the side. He handed it over, and Majima’s eyebrows shot up.

“Kiryu-chan! I thought ya threw this out.” 

“No, I only told you I did.” Kiryu said. “We should take another one sometime.”

Majima looked up at him and smiled warmly. “Yeah, we should.”

 Kiryu handed him another photo. One of him, Yuki and Koyuki. Both women were mid-laugh, which contrasted with Kiryu’s serious expression. 

“That’s real cute.” Majima said, and set both photos down. “Gonna have to kiss ya now.”

 He waited till Kiryu put down the rest of the photos, and lunged, knocking Kiryu down as he attacked his mouth with his own. He grabbed Kiryu’s wrists and held them both tight as he pressed Kiryu to the floor beneath him. “I can’t believe you kept a picture of me.” Majima said in his ear, then bit his earlobe. 

“I still have a photo on my phone of you with your snakeskin car.” Kiryu said. His hands were still immobilized, so he wrapped his legs around Majima’s hips, getting a delighted laugh in return. “And one of your construction flyers is in that case too.”

“Kaz, ya know I ain’t good at expressing gratitude.”

Kiryu squeezed his legs. “You’re doing great.”

 Majima smiled down at him, then let their lips brush together ever so gently. “Just know that this means a helluva lot.” 

 Kiryu craned his neck up to kiss him again. “Just because it took me this long to figure out I was in love with you, doesn’t mean you weren’t important to me. I’m just… even worse at expressing myself.”

 Majima’s hands slid up his wrists and let their fingers intertwine. The loving look on his face turned wild. “I bet we can work out another way of expressing ourselves, don’t ya think?”

“Yeah.” Kiryu said with a smile. “Yeah, I think so.”

Chapter 49: Floor Time

From the floor of his room, with his legs firmly wrapped around Majima’s waist, Kiryu was recovering from being kissed breathless. 

“Why the fuck did I put a shirt on?” Majima said. He tried to move but Kiryu, still lying on the floor, had all his limbs around him. Majima laughed and tried to fight his way out of the shirt, but Kiryu held him tight, enjoying himself too much to let him go yet. Majima chuckled. “That’s how ya wanna play it, huh?”

 There was mischief in that single dark eye, and Kiryu had to stop himself from laughing. He didn’t really know why he was doing this, but Majima was happy to play along. His resolve was tested when instead of trying to wriggle away, Majima relaxed and kissed his collarbone, rocking his hips in a slow, steady motion. Kiryu couldn’t help but relax, and the second he did, Majima took action. He grabbed Kiryu’s arms so quickly that before he knew what was happening, his wrists were pinned on either side of his face. 

“Gotcha, Kiryu-chan.” he growled, low and deep. Kiryu squeezed his legs tighter as Majima loomed over him. That sexy, dangerous look on Majima’s face had Kiryu burning with desire. “What do ya need, Kazuma-chan?”

 Kiryu groaned. “I already got to do what I wanted. I’m all yours.”

“And if I said I wanted to fuck that gorgeous ass of yours?” 

“Then I’d let you take off your shirt.”

 Majima kissed him, moaning shamelessly into his mouth. Kiryu wrestled his hands back and pulled up the hem of Majima’s shirt. Majima, sitting back on his heels, took the shirt the rest of the way off and threw it away. “Ya gonna let me go, or am I gonna have to cut ya out of the rest of yer clothes?” He gripped Kiryu’s legs, which were still locked around his waist. He motioned with his head towards the metal case on the nearby table. “There’s a dagger in reach, darlin’. Don’t think I won’t do it just ‘cause ya turned me into a big sap.” 

 Kiryu considered, and his hesitation made Majima laugh again. He relaxed his legs and once he was free, Majima’s hands went directly to his waistband. 

“Let’s save the clothes-ripping for August.” Kiryu said. 

“I look forward to it.” Majima agreed, unzipping Kiryu’s pants and yanking them down. Majima moved so he could get the pants and underwear the rest of the way off, as Kiryu took his own shirt off, leaving them both naked. “Mmm Kaz, ya look like one of those marble statues. Like a Greek god or somethin’.”

 Kiryu shook his head at Majima’s overdramatic praise, then closed his eyes as warm hands trailed down his body from his shoulders to his legs. “I don’t think many statues have hickeys on their thighs.”

“One of many reasons you’re even better.” Majima said. He settled back between Kiryu’s legs, then leaned in and licked his thigh over the mark he’d left. His hands were still moving over his body, and Kiryu couldn’t help his sharp intake of breath when Majima’s fingertips moved down to his groin. “Kaz. Last week ya told me something that I can’t get out of my head.”

 Kiryu opened his eyes as Majima’s thumb rubbed over the tip of his cock. “Yeah?”

 With his other hand, Majima took Kiryu’s and kissed his palm. “Ya told me you’d fingered yourself.” he said, then licked Kiryu’s index finger. “I’d love to see that.”

The request made Kiryu feel shy, but not half as shy as when he’d first admitted it. He also didn’t feel the deep shame that he had around touching himself like that anymore. He looked at Majima and his body pulsed with arousal. One of his hands was around Kiryu’s cock, while the other held his wrist as he sucked his index and middle finger into his mouth. Their eyes met, and Kiryu nodded. Majima moaned, and Kiryu could feel his tongue slide against his fingers. 

“You’re so hot.” Kiryu whispered. He pulled his fingers slowly out of Majima’s mouth. Majima let him go and grabbed the lube bottle, which still sat next to the futon from earlier. He coated Kiryu’s hand, then picked up his leg, holding Kiryu’s thigh against the side of his face as his fingers ran up and down the length of his cock. 

 Kiryu reached down, and Majima moved his leg up further to give him better access, watching him intently. Kiryu had to close his eyes, but he felt down to his hole, which he could barely reach from this angle. 

“Wanna turn over?” Majima offered, a warm smile on his face. Kiryu nodded and Majima flipped him onto his knees. Kiryu reached behind himself, as Majima held his cheeks spread. “Slowly now, darlin’. Nice and easy.”

 As Kiryu touched himself, he could feel Majima’s body against him, hot and hard as he rubbed himself along the back of Kiryu’s thigh. He groaned as Kiryu pressed a finger inside.

“You’re gorgeous, Kaz. I don’t say that lightly.” Majima said. Kiryu felt his warm hand move across his back, then around take hold of the base of his cock again, slowly and firmly pumping his hand. Touching him as he touched himself. It was so different than the last time he’d done this to himself. He couldn’t feel shame, not with Majima looking at him like that, and touching him exactly how he liked. He took a deep breath and smiled. 

 Before long, Kiryu added a second finger, moving his hand at the same time as Majima’s. “That’s hot as hell.” Majima said under his breath as Kiryu stretched himself, his fingers moving with increasing urgency. 

 Kiryu looked behind himself again. Majima was still staring at him, biting his lip. His eye looked glazed over, and just as aroused as Kiryu felt. “Goro,” he said, “fuck me.”

“Anything for you.” Majima said, taking a shuddering breath as Kiryu removed his fingers. “But I’m gonna turn ya back over. I need to see that perfect face.”

 Kiryu nodded, and before he could move, Majima had flipped him onto his back again. He took a pillow and placed it under Kiryu’s hips, then settled in between his thighs again. He grabbed the lube and squirted it into his hand, then grabbed himself. It was Kiryu’s turn to watch, and he savoured every second. Majima’s other hand squeezed his thigh, pulling it up so Kiryu’s leg was in the air. He smiled at Kiryu as he lined himself up, then pushed the head of his cock inside. 

 As much as Kiryu wanted to keep watching, he had to let his head fall back. He closed his eyes and moaned, trying to make himself relax so he could take more. Majima ran his hands up and down his legs, murmuring words of support as he gave him time to adjust. He slowly pushed in further, and held on to Kiryu’s thighs. 

 Kiryu let out another moan as Majima buried himself inside him. He wrapped his legs around Majima’s back again, and got a deep moan of approval in response. “More, Goro. I need more.”

 Majima pulled back, almost all the way out, then pressed slowly into him again. Kiryu finally opened his eyes in time to see him do it again, and again. His hard abdominal muscles rippled with every movement, every shallow breath. Majima ever so slowly increased his speed, the head of his swollen cock hitting just the right spot. It made Kiryu feel close already, but he fought to keep control. He needed this to last. He needed to hold on to this ecstatic feeling as long as he could. He squeezed his legs tighter around Majima’s waist, and brought his hand up to touch the vibrant ink that covered his heart. Majima leaned over him, hitting deep inside, making him gasp. Majima’s hands still trailed over his thighs, and Kiryu couldn’t do much more than hold on for the ride. 

“Ya want me to keep goin’ slow?” Majima asked, his voice strained. Despite Kiryu’s desire to stay in control, he didn’t want slow. He shook his head, and Majima smiled and bucked his hips.  

“You always know…ah!” Kiryu said as Majima dug his fingers into the muscles of his ass, holding him up and setting a brutal pace, hard and fast and so good. “You always know what I need.”

“I need you, gorgeous.” Majima with a loud groan, “All I ever need is you.”

 Majima looked down at him, his brow furrowed in concentration, jaw slack. Fuck, he’s so beautiful, Kiryu thought. The electric current that connected them surged with every touch, every moan. Majima slammed into him, still staring down at him, staring right through him. Kiryu’s entire body grew tight as the pressure kept building. He fought to keep his eyes open, muscles taut and rigid. 

“Touch yourself, Kazuma.” Majima grunted. Kiryu nodded. Majima had him pressed down to the floor, with Kiryu’s legs wrapped around him. Still, Kiryu was able to jam a hand between them to roughly pull on his own cock in time with Majima’s fast thrusts.

 Majima’s pace never faltered. Kiryu moaned loudly, unconcerned with anything but this feeling, his mind a frenzy of lust. He was almost there. From deep inside, he could feel how close Majima was, hard and pulsing and right with him. In sync as always. His partner. His perfect match. His fucking soul mate! Kiryu cried out and came hard, splattering Majima’s chest above.

“Fuck, Kaz. Fuck!” Majima moaned, climaxing a moment later, plowing into him over and over till he finally grew still. Kiryu grabbed him, pulling him down till he collapsed into his arms. His whole body was shaking as they both breathed hard, completely unconcerned with how messy and sweaty they were. 

 When Kiryu’s thoughts finally became coherent again, Majima was taking measured breaths against his shoulder. He pulled back to look at his flushed face. 

“Too rough?” Majima asked. 

 Kiryu shook his head. “It was perfect.”

 Majima collapsed back on his chest with a relieved, giddy laugh. “Sure was.”

 Kiryu sighed. “Thanks for the concern, but I can handle rough.”

“Don’t I know it. You can handle just about anythin’, but that ain’t the same as liking it.” 

“There wasn’t anything I didn’t love about that.” Kiryu said. He felt giddy too. Exhausted, sated, and happy. 

“Give me another minute, then I’ll drag ya into the shower.” Majima said, idly running a finger over his chest. 

“Good idea. It’ll keep me from falling asleep.”

 Ten minutes later, they stepped into a cool shower. Majima had an exhausted, dreamy look on his face, and Kiryu couldn’t keep his hands off him. He needed to be close, needed to hold him while he still could. He ran a washcloth over his body as Majima reached up and washed his hair, massaging his fingers into his scalp.

 They dressed and got the bedroom in order, then sat down with a hastily thrown together late lunch in front of the TV. Majima turned the nearby fan on, and they leaned their shoulders together as they ate.

 Kiryu hadn’t realized he was hungry till he started, then ate quickly. He couldn’t focus on the sports recap show that was playing, even though he was the one who picked it out. Instead he was thinking about that red dagger, now locked in the metal case in his closet. He liked having something of Majima’s here, even if it wasn’t something he could look at every day. 

“Oh.” Kiryu said out loud. 

“What?” Majima asked, mid-bite. 

“It just occurred to me that you could’ve been using my closet to hang up your clothes.”

 Majima burst out laughing. “It just occurred to you now? Aw, Kazzy, I love ya.”

 Kiryu hit him on the arm, which only made Majima laugh louder. “I’ve never been in a relationship where it’s come up before.” 

“Fair enough.” Majima said, grinning at him. 

“But if there’s anything you want to keep here, feel free.”

“Sure, yeah. There’s a couple of shirts I ain’t gonna wear back in the city, but tell me I get to keep that one black teeshirt of yours.”

“Heh. Sure.” 

“Good, ‘cause I already swiped it off the clothesline.”

 Kiryu raised his fist to punch his shoulder again, but Majima threw a right hook and hit him first. “That’s for makin’ me live out of a suitcase.”

“I guess that’s fair.” Kiryu said. They shared a smile, then Kiryu grabbed him, tackling him to the floor. Majima laughed as they fought like overgrown children, finally culminating in a long kiss on the floor of the dining room.

 Majima’s back ended up flat against the cool floor, with Kiryu leaning over him. “What a morning.” Majima said with a loud sigh. “You’ve been real good to me, Kiryu-chan.”

“I’m in love with you.” Kiryu replied, touching Majima’s cheek. He closed his eye and leaned into the touch. Kiryu smiled, and was about to say more, when Majima bit down on his hand. “Majima.” he warned.

 Majima grabbed his hand and kissed over where he’d bitten, looking pleased with himself. “Couldn’t help it. You’d understand if ya could see what I see.”

 Kiryu pulled them both up to a sitting position. “I’ll take your word for it.”

 Majima ran his hand overtop of Kiryu’s bicep. “Damn, Kiryu-chan. The hell am I gonna do without ya?”

 Kiryu didn’t have a good response. He was feeling the same way. Instead of replying he touched Majima’s chin, angling it so he could kiss him again. Majima responded with the same enthusiasm he always did. They stayed in each others arms for a long time, till Majima grabbed his hand so he could check the time off his watch. 

“The kids’ll be home soon. I should probably let go of ya before then.” Majima said, making no effort to move. 

“In a minute.” Kiryu said, just as reluctant to let go. “You were amazing today.”

 Majima chuckled. “Don’t make me think about that, Kaz. We ain’t got enough time for another round.”

“I know, I just had to tell you.” Kiryu said with a shrug. “I know myself a lot better now and… I guess what I’m trying to say is thanks, for showing me the ropes.”

 Majima cocked an eyebrow. “Oh darlin’, we haven’t even started playin’ around with ropes.”

“Oh? Heh, w-wow.” Kiryu sputtered, which made Majima grin. 

“You’re fuckin’ adorable when ya get flustered.” he said, then slapped Kiryu’s arm. “Come on. I wanna hang up some of my stuff while we’re alone.”

 They got to their feet and walked back to the bedroom. Majima put his bag on Kiryu’s desk and pulled out a few brightly coloured shirts. Kiryu took what he was handed and opened the closet.

“That’s a lotta red.” Majima said, looking inside. 

 Kiryu hesitated, then decided there was no point holding back. “My friend Reina told me I looked good in red once and I just kind of went with it.”

“Which one was Reina?” Majima asked carefully. 

“She was the Mama at Serena, before she was killed.” Kiryu replied. 

“Ah, right. Poor gal. I think she hit me with a bottle once.”

 Kiryu smiled. “That sounds like her.”

“She was right about the red, Kaz. It brings out that fire that burns hot inside ya.” Majima said, grabbing him around the waist. “I love that fire. Always have.”

“You’re adorable when you get sentimental.” Kiryu said, bracing himself, but Majima just laughed and held him tighter. “Heh, I thought you’d hit me for that.”

“I dunno, thought I might try leaning into the sappy shit today. Last night here and all that.” he replied with a strangely shy smile. Then he made a fist and grit his teeth, “Unless ya want me to hit ya.”

 Kiryu grabbed his wrist and kissed his knuckles. Faintly, he heard the sound of yelling children. “Here they come.”

“I know I’m supposed to keep outta the kitchen tonight, but let me know if I can help with anything.”

 Kiryu kissed his cheek. “Sappy and helpful, huh?”

“Don’t push it, Kiryu-chan.” Majima said and slapped his shoulder. They both laughed, and Majima followed Kiryu to the front door towards the sounds of excited children.

Notes:

The next chapter might take some extra time. Thanks as always for reading this far!

Chapter 50: Gifts and Gratitude

 The front door opened to the sight of smiling children, all jogging towards the house. From just behind Kiryu, Majima pushed him forward through the doorway. Kiryu, only slightly annoyed at being pushed, walked to the front step to meet them. 

“We have to wait for everybody.” Mitsuo was saying to Eri.

“But we’re all almost here.” Eri said. 

 Majima pushed past Kiryu and put a hand on her shoulder. “Ya know what I do when I’m feelin’ impatient, Eri-chan?”

“No.” Eri said. She sounded irritated, but still looked up at Majima.

“I run like crazy. Wanna race down the beach?”

 Eri furrowed her brow, but Mitsuo stepped in to help. “Yeah! Let’s do that!” he said loudly.

“Attaboy, Mitsuo. We’ll get to the end of the beach and practice slidin’ into home. C’mon, kiddos. Put those backpacks away so we can get goin’.”

 The kids hurried inside, except for Ayako, who touched Kiryu’s arm. “Uncle Kaz, Riona ran out to the beach. I think you should talk to her.”

“Is she upset about something?” Kiryu asked. 

 She looked between Majima and Kiryu. “Um, I think it’s about her present for Majima-san.”

 Majima motioned for him to go. Kiryu thanked Ayako and walked across the street. He found Riona sitting with her knees pulled to her chest, her backpack and notebook in the sand by her feet. 

“Riona?” 

 She jolted, as if she hadn’t heard him walk up to her, then looked up at Kiryu, misty-eyed. He sat down next to her, and they stayed quiet for a long moment. Then Kiryu spoke again. 

“Do you want to tell me what’s wrong?”

 She took a deep, shaky breath. “It’s not good enough.”

“Your present? I’m sure he’ll like-”

“But I wanted it to be perfect!” Riona interrupted, speaking quickly. “I had to restart three times, and it’s still not right, and now there’s not enough time, and I… I know I’m not as good as the other kids.” 

 She sniffed, trying to fight back tears. Kiryu put a hand on her back. “Riona, that’s not true.”

“It is true,” she insisted, “I know I say stupid things, and I’m selfish and mean, and I only care about clothes, but I want to be good. I really do. Fashion is just the only thing I’m good at, and I’m not even good at that.”

 Kiryu frowned as he thought of what to say. These weren’t things a girl her age should be worried about. Each of the kids had their struggles, but he’d had a harder time relating to Riona than the others. They’d bonded when she found out he could paint nails, but she often kept him and the other kids at arms length. She rarely spoke about her parents, but when she did, he got the impression that they weren’t pleasant people. Kiryu wouldn’t speak ill of them to Riona, but he wished he could’ve had a stern talk with them about some of the ideas they’d passed on to their daughter before they died. 

“You’re good at a lot of things, Riona,” Kiryu said. “You sew, you draw, your grades are always good, and you’ve gotten much better at being considerate of others. You’ve come a long way since I first met you.” She was looking at her knees instead of at him, holding herself tightly. Kiryu tried to soften his tone. “I know I was hard on you back then, but it’s because I knew you could be better, and you keep proving me right.” 

“But… I laughed at him when he said he liked pink. I don’t even know why I did that. I like pink too.” Riona said. She took another deep breath. “I wanted to show Majima-san that I like that he’s so tough, but he likes pink, and makeup, and- and he isn’t scared of showing his scars.”

“See, there’s that compassion I’m so proud of you for. Kiryu said. Riona nodded but stayed silent. “You know, I’ve known Majima-san for about twenty years, and the first time I ever saw him without an eyepatch was the day before he showed you kids.”

Riona finally looked at him. “Really?”

“Really. None of us are perfect. Not me, not you, and definitely not Majima-san.” Kiryu said. “We all make mistakes, and we all have insecurities. What matters is that we keep trying to be better. I’ve never thought you weren’t as good as the other kids. Not once. We’re all works-in-progress, and if your gift to Majima-san is a work-in-progress too, he’ll understand. He’ll probably understand more than most people.”

 Riona nodded again, then hesitantly reached for her notebook. She opened it to the last page and handed it to Kiryu. It was a full page drawing of a long dress, similar in style to the others she’d been designing lately, sleeveless, long and flowing, with a deep neckline. This one had sakura flowers, and coiling snakes, clearly inspired by Majima’s tattoos, and long matching gloves. “I wanted to colour it in, but I had to redesign it twice, and then I messed up the left side.” Riona said, pointing at the numerous eraser marks. 

“I think he’ll really be impressed with it.” Kiryu said. It really was exceptional for her age. “I don’t know too much about dresses, but I like this one a lot.”

“Thanks, Uncle Kaz, but you don’t have to say that.” Riona replied. She still sounded a little sad, but the tears had stopped.

“I meant what I said.” Kiryu said seriously. “This is a thoughtful gift, and I can see the effort that went into it. Uncle Majima will see that too.”

“Thank you.” Riona said, sounding relieved. She took the notebook back from him. “You always know the right thing to say.”

“Heh, I wish that was true.”

“I meant what I said too.” she said firmly, then smiled. They stood up, and Riona gave him a hug before they walked back. Kiryu wondered why the other kids hadn’t run down to the beach yet, but that question was soon answered by the dust cloud that was rising in front of the house.

 Majima and Ayako were leading the pack in a large circle around the front yard. All the kids were laughing as they ran, a cyclone of happy children. 

“The beach is free!” Majima yelled, “Come on!”

“Check for cars.” Kiryu ordered as the group paused briefly at the road, then ran across and down to the sand. 

 Riona laughed quietly. “I’m going to work on this a little more before Haruka gets home, but I’m going to tell him it’s a work-in-progress, like you said.”

“Good. And if you want, next time I go clothes shopping, you should come and help me pick out some stuff for everyone.”

 Her eyes lit up. “Really? Yes, please!”

 She ran into the house. Kiryu hoped he’d handled that well. The kids needed a firm hand, but not so firm as the ones that raised him. It was a balancing act he was still working on. He mulled that over as he walked across the street. Majima and the rest of the kids were all the way down by the rocks, but were running back towards him. 

 Was this really the same man who ran a truck through the front of a building? Who fought him in the streets till they were both bloody? The man who Kiryu had never seen without some kind of weapon was leading seven smiling children across the beach, wearing shorts and sandals and without anything covering his bad eye. 

 If things were different, he’d grab Majima as he passed. For now, he let his partner squeeze his shoulder when he got close, before the group continued down to the other end of the beach, then slid into the sand. Majima was first, Ayako and Mitsuo were close behind, followed by the rest of the kids. After they’d helped each other up, they all walked back to Kiryu, giggling and breathless. 

“You’re all lucky.” Majima said to the kids, “If it were a few degrees hotter we wouldn’t be doin’ this.”

 Kiryu smiled. He certainly felt lucky. Majima looked past him and waved. 

“There she is.” he called. Kiryu looked back to see Haruka waving back. 

“Now? Can we do it now?” Eri asked, tugging on Ayako’s shirt. 

“Yes. Let’s go get things ready while Haruka gets changed.” Ayako said. 

 The kids hurried back to the house, speaking to each other in harsh whispers. Kiryu nodded at Ayako as she passed. Majima squeezed his shoulder again. “No shortage of energy today.”

“Yeah.” Kiryu replied. He explained Riona’s concern to Majima without revealing the project she was working on. 

“Aw, they don’t have to do anything for me. You told ‘em all that, right?” Majima said, scratching the back of his head. 

“I did.”

“I’ll be nice to her about it, Kaz, don’t worry.”

 Kiryu smiled. “I don’t doubt it.”

 Majima ran his hand through his hair, then touched his forehead. “It’s weird, not wearin’ the patch this long.”

 It took effort for Kiryu not to run his own hand through Majima’s hair. “You look great.”

“Knock it off, Kaz-chan.” Majima said affectionately as he covered Kiryu’s eyes with his hand. Kiryu pushed his arm away, and they went back to the house together.

 They were all speaking quietly to each other, but Haruka’s voice rang out over the din. “Let Eri go first before she explodes.” 

 The other kids laughed, and Kiryu was happy to see that Riona had joined the group. Eri was jumping and clutching a large piece of paper to her chest. Haruka pointed to the outside table. “Please sit down, Uncle Majima.”

 Majima sat down on one of the seats facing the house. Kiryu sat next to him, and Eri sat on Majima’s other side. Kiryu knew what Eri’s gift was but he hadn’t seen it for himself. Haruka sat across from them, and the rest of the kids stayed on their feet and hovered around.

“Here you go, Uncle Majima.” Eri said, holding out the paper with both hands. 

“What’s this, Eri-chan?” Majima asked. He placed the paper on the table in front of him, and Haruka quickly reached out and turned it right side up. Majima gave a slight nod in her direction. 

 It was a comic, divided into six sections, drawn in crayon. There were two stick figure characters, one wearing Eri’s favourite teal shirt, and the other who had an eyepatch instead of any eyes at all. The drawings were a little hard to identify, but the words at the end said: and then my life was saved!!!

“Ah, this is when ya almost fell on that stump, right?” Majima asked. 

 Eri nodded enthusiastically, and pointed to the last panel. “And then you saved me. Like a hero!”

“A hero, huh?” Majima asked with a laugh. Eri nodded solemnly. “That’s a new one.” he said, almost to himself. “This took a lot of hard work, didn’t it?” Majima added, and patted her shoulder when she nodded. “Thanks a bunch, Sweet Pea. I’ve never had my own manga before. I’m gonna laminate it as soon as I get back to the office.”

 After Ayako explained what lamination meant, Eri looked happy. They went over each panel together. Majima showed a genuine interest, and Eri was thrilled that he liked it. On the other side of the table, Mitsuo and Koji were standing with their hands behind their backs, waiting as patiently as they could. As soon as Eri was finished, Haruka let the two boys approach Majima.

“This is from both of us, but everybody helped.” Mitsuo said. 

 Koji put the little stand on the table. There was tape on the the front of the base, and Team Morning Glory was written across it. Mitsuo put the signed baseball in its place on the top.

 Majima picked up the ball turned it in his hand, looking at all the kids’ signatures. “This is a hel- a heck of a thing.” he said quietly, quickly correcting his language. He looked up at the group. “And you’re all on here?” 

 The kids nodded. Mitsuo put a black marker in front of him. “We saved you a spot if you want to sign it too, Uncle Majima.” he said, looking a little nervous. 

 Majima cleared his throat, and even Kiryu could see how touched he was. “Course I’ll sign it. If ya want me on the team, I ain’t gonna say no.” he said with a wide grin. The kids all sounded their support, and Koji pointed to the one blank space left on the ball. Majima signed his name, then put the ball on its stand.

“And you guys thought of this all on yer own?” he asked the two boys. 

“It was Mitsuo’s idea.” Koji said. 

“Koji thought of the stand, so it looks like a real collectable.”

“Ya did great. Both of you.” Majima said, “I got a shelf in my room back in Tokyo where I can see it everyday, and think about my team back in Okinawa. It’s right next to where I’m gonna put the snake mask with the flower Ayako made for me.”

 Mitsuo and Koji smiled at each other. Majima thanked them and they backed up. Kiryu met Riona’s eyes and she shook her head. Not quite ready, he guessed. He was about to say something, but Majima spoke instead.

“So, there’s a rumour goin’ around that I’m supposed to stay outta the kitchen.”

“That’s right.” Haruka said. “Taichi and Shiro are making dinner tonight, and I’m going to help them. We should actually get started on that now.”

 Taichi and Shiro jumped up and ran in the house without another word. Before she left, Haruka leaned in. “Uncle Kaz, can you come help us with that one thing?”

“Sure.” Kiryu said, and got to his feet. 

“Uncle Kaz is in on this too, huh?” Majima asked with a sly smile. 

“Yeah. Just stay out of the house till dinner’s ready.” Haruka replied. 

 Majima laughed. “I can handle that. Gives me more time to admire my presents.”

 The kids pointed out their names as Majima picked up the baseball again, carefully avoiding the fresh ink of his own signature. Some of them were hard to read, as the kids weren’t used to signing their names so small, but with a little help, they figured out who wrote what. 

 Kiryu joined Haruka and the two boys in the kitchen. He took an armload of ingredients out, including the large paper bag marked Keep Out. Haruka pulled out the hot pot bowls for the sukiyaki they was planning to make. For their appetizer, Taichi found the metal plates they needed. On a cutting board, Kiryu opened the paper bag and took out the beef, and the large octopus the kids had bought on Saturday. 

“It’s been a while since we made takoyaki. Do you still have the instructions?” Kiryu asked. 

 Haruka held up a recipe card. “I remember how to do it. We just have to make sure we make enough so everyone can have some.”

“Right.” 

 Kiryu prepared and chopped the octopus, and because of Majima’s kitchen knife tips, he was able to cut the pieces far more evenly. Thankfully, the beef they’d bought was already thinly sliced, because that took more precision with a knife than he was capable of yet. 

“We’ll get everything else ready. We’ll cook the takoyaki last though, because it doesn’t take very long and we want it to be hot.” Haruka told the boys. 

“This is really generous, the way you all spent your allowance on this.” Kiryu said. He knew a big part of the meal was funded by the leftover money Majima had given Haruka, but all three of them had put their own money in as well. 

“Yeah!” Taichi yelled. He held a handful of mushrooms, and almost dropped them when he punched the air. 

“Careful, Taichi.” Shiro said seriously.

“We can take it from here, Uncle Kaz. We’ll just need some help at the very end.” Haruka said. “You should go keep an eye on Uncle Majima.”

“Heh, okay. Come get me when you need help. I don’t want anyone burning themselves.”

 Taichi had put down his mushrooms. He crossed his arms and furrowed his brow. “I won’t let anybody get hurt.” he said sternly. It wasn’t till he saw Haruka hide a laugh did Kiryu realize that Taichi was trying to sound like him. 

“Good.” Kiryu replied, and left them to their work. 

 Kiryu could hear the kids playing on the beach as he stepped back outside. At the table, side-by-side, sat Majima and Riona, looking at her sketch. The page had been taken out of the notebook, and Majima was holding it in his hands. 

“Did ya see this, Kaz?” Majima asked. He motioned Kiryu over. “Ain’t it pretty?”

 The flowers had all been coloured in, making the dress stand out that much more. “It is.” Kiryu agreed, putting a hand on each of their shoulders. Riona smiled at Majima, looking relieved. 

“And I’m not even sayin’ that ‘cause I get to wear these colours every day.” Majima said, and slapped his upper arm. “This is more than just talent. You’ve done a lotta research on this stuff, haven’t ya?”

 Riona nodded. “Thank you, for liking it.”

“Hey, don’t thank me, Riona-chan, you should be proud of this. I’m honoured that ya drew a design based on my ink. If I still had my contact in manufacturing, I’d mass produce ‘em. Have fancy ladies all over Tokyo walkin’ around in these.” 

 Riona laughed, which made Kiryu smile. 

“I’m serious.” Majima continued, “It’s too bad. The only guy I knew who did this sorta thing hates my guts, but maybe someday.”

“Why would anybody hate you, Uncle Majima?” Riona said. 

 Majima looked to the sky, deep in thought, then chuckled. “Sorry Riona-chan. I don’t think there’s a kid-friendly version of that story. I’ll tell ya when you’re older. But don’t worry about it, lots of people don’t like me, but the important people like you guys do, and that’s all that matters.”

Kiryu gave them some more time to talk, walking out to the street to watch the game of tag that was going on at the beach. He was proud of all his kids. They’d put a lot of effort into their gifts, and he had no doubt they were in for a great dinner. 

 He turned back after a few minutes, just in time to hear Majima thanking Riona. He stood up told her he was going to put everything in his bag for safekeeping. Riona went the other direction, and Kiryu shared a smile with her as she passed him, heading to the beach with the rest of the kids. Kiryu followed Majima inside.

 Kiryu been tasked to keep Majima away from the kitchen, and he had no problem keeping a close eye on him. He closed the door to their room behind them as Majima carefully placed his gifts on the table. He then stood up, put both hands over his face, and let out a muffled yell. 

“Goro?” Kiryu asked. 

 Majima raked his hands through his hair. “These kids are killin’ me!” he said, eye wide. He looked distressed, but it made Kiryu smile. “The hell am I gonna do, Kaz? The rest of ‘em are makin’ me dinner.”

 Kiryu pulled him into a hug. “You’re doing great. They’re all so happy.”

“And I ain’t happy?” Majima replied, clinging to his back. “You’re gonna have to slap me around or somethin’ or I’m gonna start blubberin’ like a little baby, and I don’t want any of ya to see that.”

“This doesn’t feel like a problem.”

“‘Course it is. Look at this.” he said, pointing to his gifts on the table. “I’m gonna treasure this shit for the rest of my goddamn life. I can’t handle it.” Kiryu held him still and kissed his cheek. Majima groaned in protest but let him do it. “You’re not helpin’, Kaz.”

“You’ll be fine.” Kiryu said, and kissed his jaw, then his neck. He couldn’t help himself. “You’ve said really nice things to them about their presents. I’m proud of them, and grateful for you.”

 Majima, still in his arms, thumped Kiryu’s back. “Not. Helping.”

“Heh, fine. Come on. The kids wanted more practice with their baseball slides, and it’s my job to keep an eye on you.”

 Majima pulled back, his expression suddenly wild. “So if I made a run to the kitchen you’d have to stop me?”

 Kiryu tried to keep a straight face. “Don’t make me throw you into the ocean.”

 Majima smiled. “Not sure the kids’d like it if ya did that. Not after they’ve been so damn sweet to me today.”

“You’re right. You’re the guest of honour tonight. I probably shouldn’t throw you anywhere.” Kiryu said. “Let’s go.”

“In a sec.” Majima said, and kissed him hard on the lips. Kiryu ran his thumb over the little dot under his left eye socket. Majima sighed. “Now we can go.”

 They broke apart and went outside. It wasn’t long before Majima made his first attempt to run back into the house. Kiryu and the rest of the kids stopped him, and that turned into a game which continued until Shiro appeared. He announced that dinner was almost ready, but they needed Kiryu’s help for the last part. Kiryu put Ayako and Koji, the next two oldest kids, in charge of guarding Majima, and followed Shiro inside.

 In the kitchen, the kids had done a good job of preparing everything. The sukiyaki bowls were already plugged in and out on the table, and they’d prepared their batter. The only thing left to do was to cook the takoyaki. Haruka probably could have done it herself, but Kiryu insisted on being there. The hot, oiled plates, and the speed in which the battered octopus balls needed to be flipped made the risk of burns high, and Kiryu never liked taking chances with the kids safety. With him and Haruka in charge, they showed the boys how it was done. It was a method they’d practiced together in the back kitchen at FourShine, under the watchful eye of several Osakan hostesses.

 By the time they’d placed the takoyaki onto plates, they were all smiling. Shiro looked fascinated by the process, and Taichi liked the loud hiss of the oil. They were able to make three per person, and six for Majima.

“We should do this more often.” Kiryu told Haruka, as Taichi and Shiro sprinkled bonito flakes and green onion over the top of their creations. They’d only made takoyaki once since they came to Okinawa. It was a lot of work to make enough for everyone, but now that the kids were a little older, and more willing to help in the kitchen, it wasn’t as much of an ordeal. 

“Yeah, it looks good, doesn’t it?” Haruka said. “And they’re all round this time.”

“And we didn’t start any fires.” Taichi said, sounding almost disappointed. He’d been standing close to their fire extinguisher, at the ready in case anything went wrong. 

 Kiryu chuckled to himself. All the kids continued to impress him today. Taichi hadn’t even tried to sneak any food like he used to do. 

“Uncle Majima is going to like it, right, Uncle Kaz?” Shiro asked. 

“Yeah, he will. This is a great present, you three.” Kiryu replied. “Taichi, why don’t you go get everybody. We’ll take the food out.”

 The table was ready when the rest of the kids rushed in and sat down. Majima was last to walk through the doorway. He took a look at what was on the table and swallowed hard, clearly fighting against his emotions. “I thought I smelled takoyaki.” he said after clearing his throat. “I didn’t wanna get my hopes up, but look at all this! Sukiyaki too? It looks so professional.”

“Let’s eat while it’s still warm.” Haruka said.

“Ya don’t gotta tell me twice.” 

 Majima sat down at Kiryu’s side, and they began the meal. Majima chuckled. All eyes were on him as he took his first bite. 

“Before today, if I saw anybody lookin’ this closely at what I was eatin’, I’d think they were poisonin’ me.” Majima said. The younger kids laughed, the older kids looked slightly concerned. “But this tastes too good for me to care.”

“It’s good, right Uncle Majima?” Taichi asked, his mouth full. 

“It’s the best takoyaki I ever had.” Majima declared, and even the kids who had no hand in the meal looked pleased. 

“This is the best batch we’ve ever made.” Kiryu said to Haruka, who nodded. 

“I love takoyaki too!” Eri chirped. Several of the other kids hummed in agreement.

“Was it worth the wait, Eri-chan?” Majima asked. 

“No, I still wanted to know what we were having.” she said stubbornly. “Taichi wouldn’t let me see what he bought, and that was days ago!” 

“It was a secret octopus!” Shiro said. 

 Majima and several of the other kids smiled, before they started in on the rest of their meal. The beef wasn’t restaurant quality, but for their budget, it was a rich and hearty meal. 

 Everyone was mostly quiet as they ate, and Kiryu couldn’t help looking around at their happy little faces. This was what he’d hoped for for this last night together. Everyone was relaxed and enjoying themselves. When they were finished, there was a round of contented sighs. 

“Haruka, Taichi and Shiro, thank you.” Majima said seriously. “That was a first class feast.”

“Uncle Kaz helped with the octopus.” Shiro said.

 Majima turned to Kiryu, amusement shining in his eye. “Thanks, Uncle Kaz.”

 After dinner, the kids reluctantly pulled out their homework. The kids were still in high spirits, and they helped each other so it all went fairly smoothly. Majima sat with the two youngest girls, who didn’t have any homework, but each had a colouring book. All three of them looked so carefree as they tried to colour within the lines. Kiryu thought back to how worn out Majima had sounded the first night he was here, and how much had changed since.

 Eri looked up at Majima. “Are you going to be here when we get home from school tomorrow, Uncle Majima?” 

“Nah, I’m outta here before that. I’ll still have breakfast with ya, then I gotta jet.”

“Oh.” Izumi said quietly. 

“Nothin’ to look so sad about, girls. I’ll be back.” Majima said, then looked around the room. “It won’t be a goodbye, it’s a see ya later.”

Haruka looked up from her book. “Yeah. And you’d better come back.”

 Majima laughed. “I promise, boss.”

 The kids stayed inside, and after Kiryu finished working with Koji and Riona on their grammar homework, he realized two people were missing. He went out and found Haruka and Majima sitting across from each other at the outside table. 

“Alright, kiddo.” Majima said when he saw Kiryu approach. “Just remember, call me anytime.”

 Haruka nodded, and shot Kiryu a guilty look. 

 Majima looked over at Kiryu and smirked. “Were yer ears burnin’?”

“I guess so.”

“Well, don’t ask what we were talkin’ about, because we ain’t gonna tell ya.”

 Haruka nodded and crossed her arms. 

“Oh? A united front?” Kiryu asked.

 The two of them stood up. “You’ll find out in about a week, Kazzy.” Majima  said, and squeezed his chin. Kiryu slapped his hand away, but not before Haruka laughed. 

 

 After the kids were in bed, Kiryu led the way back out to the beach. The two men sat down in the sand, similar to the first night of Majima’s visit, but closer this time, with Majima’s leg against his, and his hand on top of his knee. 

“It was touch and go for a while, but I made it through the night without bawlin’ my eyes out.” Majima said with a sigh. He drew out his pack of smokes and lit one for each of them. 

“Congratulations.”

“Wasn’t easy. This is the second time this year ya got me takoyaki. Both times… meant a lot.”

 Kiryu had almost forgotten the slightly squished box of takoyaki he’d brought to that depressing holding cell two months ago. “Right. That was the day I invited you here.”

“I didn’t think ya meant it. Thought you were just bein’ nice to a sad-sack prisoner.”

“Heh, there were lots of other prisoners in that room. I didn’t invite them.”

“Shut up, Kiryu-chan,” Majima said with a laugh, “I’m tryna be sincere.”

“Go for it.” Kiryu replied, trying not to smile as Majima shot him a look.

 Kiryu watched as he looked over the ocean. The sun was low in the sky, and the last sunbeams of the night made Majima’s skin look golden. The smile that had stayed on his face the whole night hadn’t faded, and Kiryu couldn’t help but stare. 

“You changed my whole goddamn life these last two weeks.”

 Kiryu took his hand and squeezed it. “You changed mine too.”

“This has been a vacation from myself. I had no idea just how much I needed that. Needed you.” He kissed Kiryu’s wrist. “I’ve been tryin’ not to think too much about work, but I’m already makin’ plans.” Majima motioned to his head. “The gears are turnin’. I got three or four things I’m gonna do as soon as I get back. Kamurocho won’t know what hit it.”

 Kiryu wasn’t sure if he should ask. Maybe it was one of those things he was better not knowing. “I’d hate to be the one who tries to stop you.”

 Majima’s head snapped to the side to look at him. There was so much affection on this face that it almost made Kiryu want to look away, but he didn’t. “I love ya, Kaz.”

 Kiryu still held his hand. He intertwined their fingers without breaking eye contact. “I love you too.”

Later that night, they laid down together, Kiryu on his back, and Majima, as usual, curled around him. They stayed awake much longer than usual, but neither of them felt the need to speak. They’d already said what they needed to say. All that was left was hold each other as close as they could in the hours they had left.

Chapter 51: It’s Not Goodbye

 It was early. Kiryu rubbed his eyes and checked the time. The alarm wouldn’t go off for over an hour. He’d normally be annoyed at waking up too soon, but he looked at Majima, asleep with his cheek pressed to his stomach, and any annoyance evaporated. Majima was facing away from him, and his arm and leg were still slung over his own. Kiryu had to resist the urge to touch the fuzzy hair at the back of his neck, deciding that he’d need the rest. Instead he closed his eyes and listened to Majima breathe. 

 Five minutes later, Majima shifted slightly. His breathing became shallow, and his muscles tensed. The last thing Kiryu wanted was for Majima to suffer through another nightmare, so he ran his fingers through the silky hair he loved so much. “Goro?”

 After a moment, Majima grew still, then he moved his head back up to Kiryu’s shoulder. He had a strange look on his face, and as he took a deep breath, he touched Kiryu’s jaw, looking over his features like he was searching for something. 

“Another bad dream?”

 Majima shook his head. “No. A good one. I can’t tell ya the last time I had a good dream, or hell, any dream that wasn’t attached to a bad memory.”

 He kissed Kiryu’s chin, and looked at him with something like wonder. Kiryu couldn’t help but smile. “Sorry I woke you up.”

“Pfft, you’re better than some dream, Kaz, but I wish ya coulda seen it.” Majima said, clutching his shoulder. “We were fightin’ against a dozen guys, just you and me. Old school fightin’, with katanas and shit. Yer hair was long, and ya looked so damn pretty. Adrenaline was pumpin’, and we were cuttin’ our enemies down left and right, and as the last guy fell,” he paused, smiling ear to ear, “you looked at me, and I knew, I fuckin’ knew you were into me. That feelin’ put me on top of the world. It’s the same feelin’ I’ve had since I got here.”

“It sounds like an action movie.” 

“That’s what it felt like. I think we were ronin. That part’s fuzzy, but the rest was so real. I’ve never had a dream like that before. Feels like a miracle.”

 He kissed Kiryu on the mouth before he could reply, still gripping his arm. An open-mouthed kiss that radiated joy and made Kiryu feel lighter than air. Was this joy the same feeling Majima had just described? When he pulled back and smiled at him, Kiryu knew it must have been. “I was pretty?” 

 Majima touched his cheek, then pushed his hair off his forehead. “You’re always pretty, Kiryu-chan, and strong, and tough as nails.” He ran his hand back down over his bicep. “To me, nothin’s prettier than strength.”

“Heh, in that case, I guess I can handle pretty.” Kiryu said. “And if I said that strength, passion, and tenacity are what I find beautiful, then you should be able to handle that too.”

 Majima scoffed and kissed him again. “We got time after the kids leave. Not a ton, but enough. Maybe a shower or somethin’?”

“I was hoping you’d to say that.” Kiryu said, lowering his tone. “I’m not sure I could have let you leave without getting you off one last time.”

 Majima’s smile was downright wolfish. “D’ya think you could’ve said somethin’ like that a week ago without blushin’?”

“I don’t know if I could’ve said that yesterday without blushing.” he admitted. 

 Majima touched his hair again. “You’re cute when ya blush, but I ain’t complainin’. It’s good practice for all those phone calls ya promised me.”

 Kiryu nodded. “Call me when you get home today, so I know you got back safe.”

 Majima sighed heavily. “I told ya before, the word ‘safe’ and I don’t really mesh, but I’ll do my best, for you.”

“I’m not asking you to lose your edge.” Kiryu said. “You need to stay sharp to survive in Kamurocho.”

“After this trip I’m gonna have to remember how to be a nasty sonuvabitch all over again.”

“Heh, I believe in you.” Kiryu said. Majima slapped his shoulder. “I mean it, Goro. You’re sexy when you’re dangerous. I just don’t want you getting hurt.”

 Majima chuckled. “I’m sexy when I’m dangerous?”

“Yeah.”

“Well, if ya ask real nice, when ya come see me in August, we can go do somethin’ dangerous.”

Kiryu smiled. That could mean anything. “I’ll think about it.”

 Majima’s hand ran down his chest. “Aw, Kaz, I don’t wanna go.” he whispered. 

“I know.” 

“If I can, I’ll try to sneak back before August, but I can’t promise anything. I just know there’s gonna be a shitstorm waiting for me.” He kissed Kiryu’s chest. “There won’t be an hour where I won’t be thinkin’ of ya, Kazzy. That’s nothin’ new, but it’s different now.”

 Kiryu closed his eyes, and gently caressed the back of Majima’s neck. He knew he was repeating himself, but he had to say it one more time. “We’re supposed to be together.” A mantra. A promise. 

 Majima held him around the waist and rested his head on his chest again. “Yeah, Kaz. We’re supposed to be together.”  

 They stayed that way till the alarm went off. Majima sat up and stretched. Kiryu rose a moment later and tackled him into a hug. Majima sighed and leaned against his chest. “You should always hang on to me like this, and never wear a shirt.”

 Kiryu hummed in agreement. Still in his arms, Majima pulled his bag over and drew out the giant lube bottle. “Ya got a spot for this? Another secret lockbox, maybe?”

“Heh, it’s just a regular box, but yeah, I’ll stick it in the closet.”

 Kiryu took it, and Majima rooted around in a different part of his bag. “Here, take these too.”

“What’s this one?” Kiryu asked as he was handed two more bottles. One was the tattoo-friendly sunscreen, the other was a smaller bottle, which also looked expensive.

“Moisturizer. Stick it on yer face in the morning. It’ll keep that skin of yers nice and soft.”

“You don’t have to give me this.” Kiryu said, swatting Majima’s hand away after he was poked in the face. 

“Too late. And ya better use it. If I come back here and the bottle’s still full, I’ll be pissed. Same goes for the sunscreen.”

“Fine.” Kiryu said. He unscrewed the top of the moisturizer and smelled it. The scent was faint, but it made him smile. It was a warm, masculine fragrance, citrus and cedar. “I like it. It smells like you.”

 Majima kissed him once more before he carefully packed away his gifts, then stood up and started changing. Kiryu reluctantly did the same. 

 At the breakfast table, Kiryu expected the kids to be quiet and sad, but it was as if they’d all agreed to ask Majima as many questions as they could. Majima humoured them, and after answering that he preferred salmon onigiri, his favourite season was autumn, and his fourth favourite colour was purple, along with a dozen other questions, Kiryu told the kids that it was time to gather their things. The shift in mood was strong. 

 Each one of the kids lined up to say their goodbyes. Haruka, the first to leave, said a quiet farewell, and handed Majima a folded letter, which he put in his pocket as she hurried away.

 Koji sighed heavily. “Can’t we go in late today?”

“Yeah, can we stay home, Uncle Kaz?” Taichi asked, “I thought of one more wrestling move!” 

“Sorry, boys, but I can’t have any of ya missin’ school on my account.” Majima answered firmly. “Next time, we’ll play more games.” he added. Kiryu nodded in agreement.

 The other girls had to calmly talk Izumi down from becoming too upset, but the rest of the goodbyes were done without further protest. 

“Don’t look so down, kiddos.” Majima said gently, “This ain’t a real goodbye, so there’s no need to be sad. I’ll see ya soon. All of you.” 

 That appeased the group, and Majima waved to the kids till they were out of sight.

 Once they were gone, Majima looked back at Kiryu. “After a decade and a half, ya finally got yer own family, Kiryu-chan.”

“Heh, they’re a little younger than the family I expected back then.”

 Majima chuckled. “Maybe so. They’re a damn good family. A good team. Thanks… for lettin’ me be part of it for a while.”

“You’re not off the team just because you’re going back to Kamurocho.” Kiryu said. Majima nodded, then lead them back into the house. 

 On their way to the kitchen, Majima pulled Haruka’s letter out of his pocket. “Dunno what’s in here. She told me I could show you, and I ain’t waitin’ to read it on the plane.”

 Kiryu started on the dishes while Majima leaned against the counter and read his letter. After a minute, Kiryu looked back. Majima’s eye had welled up, and he was furiously blinking back a tear. He hid his face with the letter when he saw he was being watched. 

“Dammit, she got me! I was doin’ so good, but she got me.” Majima said, sniffing and wiping his eye. “Here.”

 He shoved the letter into Kiryu’s hand and turned away. In Haruka’s tidy penmanship, the letter read:

 

Dear Uncle Majima Goro,

     Thank you for coming to stay with us. The kids and I had a really fun 2 weeks with you, and we’ll all be talking about it for a long time. I’m really grateful for the money you gave me for our groceries, and the way you’ve been so gentle and kind to everyone. We’re really going to miss you!!

     I’ll never forget your hair and makeup lessons. They meant a lot more to me than I can ever say. I can’t wait to show you how much better Ayako and I are the next time we see you, which hopefully won’t be too long from now.

     Most of all, thanks for being so good to Uncle Kaz. I’ve never seen him smile as much as he has since you’ve been here, and it makes me so happy that you’re a part of our lives. Just don’t hurt him or I’ll kidnap you this time, haha!

Love, 

Sawamura Haruka (The Boss ^_^)

 

 Kiryu passed Majima his letter, which he put back in his pocket. “She writes well, doesn’t she?”

“Yep. You can tell her… tell her it’s great motivation for me to come back soon.” Majima said. He cleared his throat loudly and stepped up to the sink. “Let’s get this done, Kazzy.”

 They finished the dishes, then Majima pulled on his arm till they were back in the bedroom. Kiryu reached out and wiped the last traces of tears from his eye. Majima looked for a second like he was going to complain, but instead he just pulled Kiryu closer by the neck and held their foreheads together. 

“Why is this so fucking hard?” Majima asked.

“Because it matters so much.” Kiryu replied. 

“I guess it’d be a lot worse if ya didn’t like me, so I shouldn’t whine about it.” Majima said, moving his arms around Kiryu’s waist.

“I could go into all the ways I’m going to miss you, but I just want to hold you while I can.”

“That’s a pretty damn romantic line, Kiryu-chan.” Majima said, shifting slightly so he could kiss his neck. “And I know what ya mean. We still got some time. Is there anything else ya wanna do?”

“Hmm, you mentioned a shower.”

 Majima licked up the side of his neck. “I did.”

“I don’t want to tire you out too much for your trip.” Kiryu said, pulling Majima’s body firmly against his own.

 Majima laughed right in his ear. “Tire me out all ya want, gorgeous. I’ll be stuck in a chair most of the day, anyway.”

 He bit Kiryu’s earlobe, then sucked on it. Kiryu let his hand travel under Majima’s shirt and up his bare back. “I’m tempted to throw you down in a chair right now.”

“Yeah?” 

“Yeah.” Kiryu said. “You have great legs, Goro. I love the way they feel when they’re wrapped around my neck.”

 Majima bucked his hips and let out a giddy laugh. “If someone told me a month ago that you’d ever say somethin’ like that to me, I’d laugh in their face.”

“You bring out that side of me.” Kiryu said, as Majima grinned at him, then moved so he could kiss the other side of his neck. 

“I’m a big fan of that side, Kaz. And I can’t say no to ya, especially when you’re offerin’ one helluva send-off.”

 Kiryu liked hearing that. He liked making Majima happy. With his hand against the small of Majima’s back, he walked them over to the desk chair at the back of the room. “You smell so good.” he said. 

“I try.” 

 Kiryu positioned the chair, then pulled Majima’s shirt over his head, admiring the muscles under the ink. “You’re so beautiful.” he whispered. 

 For once, Majima didn’t make a joke or roll his eyes. He just grabbed Kiryu’s shirt and unbuttoned it. Kiryu let him, and sighed as Majima ran both hands up his abs to his chest. He undid Majima’s pants and let them fall, while Majima squeezed his pecs, then kissed over his heart as he threw his shirt away. His hot tongue ran across Kiryu’s chest, and when he reached his right nipple, his tongue did that perfect little swirl that sent a jolt of pleasure down between his legs. It was enough to make his mind go blank for a moment, then he remembered he had a plan, and they only had so much time. 

“Take these off, and sit down.” Kiryu said, touching the soft blue briefs Majima was wearing. 

“Anythin’ you say, Kaz.” Majima said as he pulled them down and kicked them away. “Anything.” he added as he sat in the chair, legs apart and half-hard. Kiryu put his hands on the armrests and leaned in for a long kiss. Majima held his forearms, holding him in place as his tongue swirled inside Kiryu’s mouth and bit his bottom lip, igniting that intense sensation which spread like lightning through his entire body. 

 With his knee, he nudged Majima’s legs further apart, then kneeled down in front of him, trailing his fingers up the pale, hot skin of Majima’s thighs. 

“Don’t tease me, Kaz.”

 Kiryu looked up. There was a glint of mischief in his eye, but Kiryu could tell he meant what he said. “You want me to get you off quick?” Kiryu asked. He pulled the chair closer. 

“Yeah. Means I get to spend more time on you.”

 Holding his gaze, Kiryu licked his thigh. Majima watched him closely, as his tongue continued up Majima’s right leg, till he reached the same place where Majima had left the bruise on his own thigh. Kiryu kissed the spot, then looked back up. “Should I make us match first?”

 Majima’s smile turned wicked. “Thought you’d never ask.”

 Kiryu kissed his thigh again. “I need you to help me.”

“Help ya? There ain’t much to it.” Majima said with a chuckle, and ran his hand through Kiryu’s hair. 

“No, I mean, I need you to touch yourself.” 

 With a loud groan, Majima’s grasped the base of his cock. “I love it when ya talk like that, Kazzy.” he said, sounding giddy again. Kiryu turned his face and licked the tip of his cock, still watching Majima’s expression. He smiled, then returned his lips to Majima’s thigh. He kissed the spot he’d chosen, then sucked at the skin. 

 When Kiryu finished, he nodded at the small mark. “What do you think?”

“It’s perfect. I’ll be lookin’ at it a lot, just like this.” Majima said. Kiryu leaned back to appreciate the view of his partner, sitting in his chair, shamelessly tugging on his cock. His eyes stopped at Majima’s lower abdomen, the place where Majima had placed the second mark on his own body. It was right where Majima had most of his thin, faded scars. Now that Kiryu knew a little more about his time in the Hole, he suspected that Majima’s hesitation about being touched there was less about being ticklish, and more to do with the hell he’d endured.

“What if…” Kiryu started, and took Majima’s left forearm, placing his fingers on the soft skin right below the inner part of his elbow. “Can I give you one here?”

“It’s a hickey, not a tattoo, Kaz. Lay one on me wherever ya want.”

 His words were casual, but he had such a loving expression on his face that Kiryu knew he’d made the right decision by asking. He pulled Majima forward and lightly sunk his teeth into his arm, then sucked hard on the skin till another bruise appeared. Majima’s breathing quickened as Kiryu kissed over the mark, then down the rest of his arm to his hand. Majima touched his face, then slowly traced his lips with his thumb. 

“There’s never been anyone sexier than you, Kaz.” Majima said, then groaned as Kiryu leaned back in to kiss his thigh. “I ain’t exaggerating, it’s fucking unbelievable.”

 Kiryu wet his lips, then let Majima trace around his mouth again, this time with the tip of his cock. With an appreciative moan, Kiryu relaxed his jaw and took him in. The sound Majima made in return was gratifying, and he could feel him grow even harder inside his mouth, pulsing and sensitive. As his hands once more grazed over his thighs, Kiryu let his tongue move.

“Kaz, you’re so good at this.” Majima said, his voice strained. He ran his hand through Kiryu’s hair. “So good to me with that perfect mouth.”

 Kiryu hummed in response. His hand felt its way under Majima’s right leg, guiding it overtop of his shoulder. Majima raised his other leg to do the same. With his heels against Kiryu’s back, he pulled himself closer to the front edge of the chair, then  wrapped his strong legs around his neck. 

“This is what you wanted?” Majima asked, as if he could hardly believe it. His hand moved in time with Kiryu’s mouth, doing enough of the work that Kiryu just held him in his open mouth, his tongue lapping at that sensitive place Majima had just below the head of his cock.  His left hand squeezed Majima’s thigh, held firmly against the side of his head. Kiryu moved his other hand up to cradle his balls, gently massaging them the way that always drew a positive reaction.

 Kiryu knew this body now. Knew what made it twitch and shudder and shake. He could feel how close Majima was, and it made him swell with pride. Kiryu pulled his mouth off, then extended his tongue and held it out against the underside of his shaft, looking up at Majima as his hand increased its speed, becoming wild and erratic. The sight made Kiryu moan. He brought his own hand down from Majima’s thigh to fist at his pants, rubbing himself through the material. 

 Majima sounded close to hyperventilating. Kiryu was almost ready to ask if he needed a break, when his lean body went rigid, squeezing Kiryu’s head between his thighs. Majima moaned his name, and Kiryu took him in his mouth again just as he came, spurting hot fluid onto his tongue. Kiryu diligently swallowed, as Majima gasped and swore his way through his release. Finally he let his head fall back, motionless except for his heaving chest. 

“So beautiful.” Kiryu murmured. He helped Majima bring his feet off his shoulders and down to the floor one at a time.  

“Ya always take such good care of little ol’ me.” Majima said, sounding dazed. “Don’t think I won’t getcha back, I just need a sec.”

“Take your time.” Kiryu said. He rested his head on Majima’s lap for a minute, till he could no longer ignore the discomfort of being on his knees. With a last kiss to the mark on his upper thigh, Kiryu slowly rose to his feet. Majima watched him, and as soon as he was standing, he was grabbed. Majima undid his pants, pulling them and his underwear down. He didn’t wait for Kiryu to step out of his clothes, he just grabbed hold of his ass with both hands and licked at his erection until it was fully inside his mouth. 

“Ah!” Kiryu couldn’t help exclaiming as he was roughly pulled forward again in what felt like a full-scale siege on his body. He had to put a hand on Majima’s shoulder to keep himself steady as the onslaught of pleasure hit him hard. Majima knew his body as well as Kiryu knew his, and between his strong hands, his expert tongue, and the sheer eroticism of Majima having just cum in his mouth, Kiryu knew it wouldn’t take much to push him over the edge. 

“I won’t last if you keep doing that.” he grunted. 

 Majima replaced his mouth with his hand and looked up at him. “What d’ya think I’m tryin’ to do here?”

 Kiryu could feel Majima’s breath against his skin, his face close to where he was  pumping his hand, twisting his wrist just slightly as if to wring pleasure out of him. Kiryu couldn’t help but moan, leaning harder on Majima’s shoulder. “We’re not… it’s not a contest.”

 Majima cackled, his expression wild with delight. “Ooh, it is now. Ya shoulda timed me, Kazzy. I bet I can get ya off faster.”

 It was Kiryu’s turn to laugh. “I bet you can. Do I have to stay standing?”

 Majima thought for a moment as he sucked on one of his own fingers. “Yeah, I think ya do.” he replied from his chair, daring him to protest. When Kiryu said nothing, Majima squeezed his ass, then pulled him into his mouth once more. One of his hands reached around to lightly stroke his hole with a wet finger, as his other hand dug into his ass cheek.

“Goro.” Kiryu growled as Majima ramped up his speed. It bordered on too fast, but he wasn’t complaining. If this was what Majima wanted, he’d do it. He’d do just about anything Majima wanted right now, which for the time being was standing in front of him and losing himself to ecstasy. Kiryu watched, holding Majima by the shoulder and the back of his head as he fought to stay still and upright, while Majima’s mouth and hands brought him closer and closer, encouraging him to thrust his hips forward into the searing heat of his mouth. He could feel a drop of sweat run down his back as his muscles tensed. Majima kept going, harder and faster, till Kiryu couldn’t take it and came hard into his mouth, gripping Majima’s shoulder as he tried to catch his breath. 

“Good, Kaz-chan. Ya did so good.” Majima said. He stood up quickly and wrapped his arms around Kiryu, leading him backwards and easing him to the futon so they could lie down together. Kiryu didn’t need the help, but accepted it, feeling happily dazed as his head hit the pillow. He faced Majima, who looked pleased with himself. Kiryu’s hair was brushed away from his face before Majima kissed his forehead. 

 Kiryu sighed and slung an arm over his partner’s shoulder. “You make me feel… young.”

“What, ‘cause of the speed?” Majima asked with a laugh. 

“No, I don’t know. Carefree might be a better word.” Kiryu said. “Even though you have to go in two hours-”

“Shh, Kaz.” Majima said, pressing a finger to Kiryu’s lips. “Gimme a few more minutes before I have to think about that.”

“Kiss me, then.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima held the side of his face as their lips met, one slow, unhurried kiss after another. Majima’s foot ran up the side of Kiryu’s bare leg as they rested together, close, naked, and comfortable. 

 Kiryu looked his partner up and down. “You’re one hell of a man, Goro.” 

“Ya took the words outta my mouth.” Majima said, and briefly pressed their foreheads together. “How’re ya doin’, Kaz? Ready for a shower?”

“I’m ready to lock you in my closet and make you miss your flight.”

 Majima grimaced. “I wish I could, but I gotta go back and make sure nothin’ went to shit while I’ve been out here livin’ the good life. Fuck, I wish I could.”

“Sorry. That was unfair.”

“It ain’t a bad thing, knowin’ ya want me to stay, Kaz.” Majima said warmly, “And anyway, it’s like I told the kids, this ain’t goodbye, it’s a see ya later, so there no point bein’ down.”

 Kiryu nodded. “Right. Let’s take that shower.”

 He got to his feet. Majima watched Kiryu appreciatively as he stretched, then reached out a hand and Majima was pulled up with him. They gathered their clothes in their arms, and broke Kiryu’s rule about walking around the house naked to race to the bathroom. 

 The shower was a refreshing distraction. If Majima was determined not to be sad, then Kiryu was going to do the same. Washing each other had become a comforting, intimate routine, and one of Kiryu’s favourite parts of the last two weeks. He did his best to put the rest of the world out of his mind as he pulled Majima’s soaped up back against his chest and held him close from behind. He rinsed off Majima’s neck so he could kiss him there, and along his shoulder. With a sigh, Majima melted against him and made that deep, contented noise that Kiryu adored. 

“I love you.” Kiryu murmured in his ear. 

 Majima let out a shaky breath. “Can I get that on tape?”

“You won’t need to, I’ll call you all the time, remember?”

 Majima turned around, serious once more. “I keep forgettin’ to ask if you’ve got a decent phone plan. I ain’t gonna rack up yer bills if I call yer cell, am I?”

“No, it isn’t any extra to call Tokyo.” kiryu said. “It used to be, but a year ago I got roped into helping a guy who was forced into selling shady phones. It’s a long story, but I have a really good phone plan now.”

“I dunno how ya always get caught up in everyone else’s shit, but I’m glad ya get some perks out of it.”

“Sometimes. I had to knock out six or seven guys and trash an office. You would’ve liked that.”

 Majima pushed Kiryu under the shower spray so he could rinse him off. “Yeah.” he said with a happy sigh, as if Kiryu had said something romantic. “Remember the other day when we fought all those idiots outside the bar?”

 Kiryu wiped water away from his eyes. “When you saved my life? I’ll never forget that. Maybe I’ll draw you a comic about it.”

 Majima’s laugh echoed off the shower walls. Kiryu finished rinsing them both off before they turned the shower off and grabbed towels. “Ya gotta admit, it was a good fight.”

“Yeah, it was.” Kiryu said. “Fighting side-by-side with you is a lot of fun.”

 Majima nodded but looked distracted. Kiryu dried the water droplets off his shoulders. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothin’, I just keep thinkin’ about that dream I had. It’s gonna stick with me for a while.”

“Your ronin dream? You should write it down so you don’t forget it. That’s what I tell the kids.”

 Majima ruffled his wet hair and started to get dressed. “It was the first dream I’ve had in fuck knows how long that wouldn’t read like a horror story. Maybe I’ll jot it down on the plane.”

 Kiryu grabbed his watch off the counter. “Do you have time for lunch?”

“No, I’ll grab somethin’ to eat at the airport. For now, I just wanna stick as close to ya as I can.” Majima said, “Unless ya wanna go beat the shit out of each other for old time’s sake.”

 Kiryu, half-dressed with a towel over his shoulders, took Majima in his arms and kissed him. “I don’t want to fight you today, that’s not the kind of closeness I need.”  

“Yeah, this is better.” Majima agreed. “For now.”

 They finished getting dressed and fixed their hair in the mirror together. “You don’t fly in a suit?” Kiryu asked. 

“Nah.” Majima said. He put on an eyepatch for the first time in almost two days, and tapped it. “I stand out enough as it is, and dressin’ up ain’t smart when I don’t want people to know where I’m goin’. A suit leaves no doubt as to the work I do,” he spread his arms, “but this at least says guy on vacation.”

 He wore jeans, and a light orange shirt over a fitted black tee shirt with a high neckline. Majima rolled up his sleeves, smiling at the bruise on his arm. He had such a nice smile when he wasn’t trying to look intimidating. “You look handsome.” Kiryu said.

 Majima pushed him, but kept smiling. “You look better naked.”

 They returned to the bedroom and made sure all of Majima’s things were packed. In addition to a few shirts, Majima was leaving behind his sandals, a pair of shorts, and his pink swim trunks. Kiryu had never kept a partner’s clothes at his place before. He wasn’t sure why, but he really liked that. Maybe because it ensured that he really was coming back. 

 All that was left to do was wait for the taxi. They settled down together in front of the largest fan in the house, and talked more about their good memories from the last two weeks: the wrestling match, watching movies with the kids, the boat trip, their first morning together, their wet tee shirt fight in the rain. The time passed far too quickly, and from outside the window, they heard the distant sound of tires against the road. Kiryu grabbed Majima for one last kiss. 

“It’s not sad, and it’s not goodbye.” Kiryu said, repeating Majima’s words in an effort to convince himself.

“What idiot told ya that?” Majima asked. He forced a laugh, and held him tightly. “I love ya like crazy, Kazuma-chan.”

“I love you too.” Kiryu replied.

 Kiryu walked him outside. Majima nodded to the cab driver and threw his bag in the back seat. He looked back, and there was an artificial quality to his smile. Kiryu knew his own expression was probably too stoic, but it was the only thing from keeping him from looking sad. He wasn’t concerned about it, he trusted that Majima could read him well enough to know how he felt. 

“See ya around, Kiryu-chan.”

 Kiryu gave a short bow. “Majima-no-nii-san.”

 Majima winked at him before he closed the car door. After exchanging words with the driver, he looked back at Kiryu for as long as he could as the car pulled away. 

 And then he was gone.

Notes:

Majima may have left Okinawa, but there’s a lot more story to tell. Updates will probably be every two weeks for a while, but this story will continue. Thanks for reading over fifty chapters so far!

Chapter 52: The First Hours

 Kiryu watched till Majima’s taxi disappeared from view, then returned to the house. It had never felt so quiet and empty. He went to his room and put his futon away, then wandered through the rest of the rooms. They’d gotten behind on the basic chores. The floors needed cleaning, and so did the windows. He took stock of everything that needed doing, and decided that housework was as good a distraction as any. He cranked the radio and got started. He was wiping the kitchen windows when his cell phone rang. He smiled when he saw it was Majima. 

“Goro.”

“Hey, darlin’.” Majima’s voice was slightly tinny, but was still a comfort to hear. “We’re takin’ off soon, but I’m gonna send ya a picture the flight attendant took for me. I was just gonna send it, but I thought, nah, I wanna hear that voice.”

“It’s been a long hour for you too, huh?” Kiryu said, leaning against the counter in the same place Majima had been earlier. 

“I dunno, I got a beer at the airport, that’s almost as good as a morning with you.” Majima teased. 

“Yeah? Well I… no, nothing is as good as having you here.”

“I miss ya already, but I’m gettin’ the stink-eye from the flight crew. I gotta turn my phone off. I’ll call ya when I get home.”

“Have a good flight.”

 He heard a woman’s voice, then Majima saying “Yep, fine, I’m done. See ya, darlin’.”

 The call ended, and Kiryu took a deep breath. His phone buzzed again, and when he checked it, he saw a photo of Majima in his plane seat, seemingly asleep, wearing Izumi’s pink sleep mask. Despite the pixelation, he could see the many staples along the edge. 

 Kiryu stood looking at the photo for a long while. It was the first time he’d been alone in two weeks, and the absence stung. He took a deep breath and went back to cleaning. He could do this. There was no sense moping about it, and anyway, he had mopping to do. Heh. 

 He touched the counter in front of him. Twice, Majima had sat up there with his legs wrapped around him. The house was full of good memories, he just had to focus on that. 

 He could do this.

 

 That afternoon, the kitchen was spotless. Kiryu had powered through much of the housework, pausing only once, when he realized he’d almost missed lunch. 

 It was a warm, windy day. Kiryu took a seat on the front step for a smoke, and opened his phone. He smiled at the photo of Majima on the plane, then looked through the other photos they’d taken. One of himself at the bar wearing Majima’s eye patch, a nice shot of the two of them with Haruka on their walk home from downtown, him and Majima in sunglasses on the speedboat. There was also a slightly blurry solo shot of Majima, grinning wildly, that Kiryu definitely didn’t take. Majima must have stolen his phone at some point. To his disappointment, that was the only one he’d taken. Kiryu looked through his phone to see if anything else had changed, and found two new numbers added to his contacts: M Office, and M Backup Cell. He went back to his photos and stared at the one of the two of them on the boat, with Morning Glory in the distance behind them. 

 The sounds of running feet startled him, and he looked up to see that the first group of kids had returned. 

“Did Uncle Majima really leave?” Izumi asked, looking around as if he might still be hiding somewhere. 

“Yeah, he had to go back to his job, but look what he sent me.” 

 Izumi jumped and laughed when she saw the photo of Majima in the sleep mask. The other kids passed the phone around so everyone could see. 

“Can we send him a message saying we liked the picture?” 

“That’s a good idea, Izumi. I know he had to go to his office after his flight, so he probably won’t be able to reply right away.” Kiryu replied.

“And can we tell him that I say hi?” Mitsuo asked, which prompted the rest of the kids to shout out their ideas. Despite the commotion, they boosted Kiryu’s spirits. 

 By the time all the kids, including Haruka, arrived home, they’d composed a long message, where everyone said hi to Uncle Majima, and that they missed him.  

 After they sent the message, Haruka came and sat down next to him on the step, while the rest of the kids went to put away their school things and gather the baseball equipment. “Uncle Kaz, did you do all the laundry already?”

“Yeah.”

“And the kitchen smells really good, are we having that stew again?”

“Yeah. I had some time.” Kiryu said. His determination to keep busy had made him very productive. “Oh, and I’m supposed to tell you that the letter you gave him is great motivation for him to come back.”

 Haruka smiled. “That’s so nice. And-”

 She was interrupted by the buzz of Kiryu’s phone. Haruka motioned for him to check it. 

-in traffic, hi all, talk2nite, miss u all!! <3

 Kiryu showed Haruka, who smiled. “He texts like a teenager.”

“He told me once he didn’t like typing on phones.” Kiryu said. When he looked up at Haruka, she was giving him that knowing look that still made him feel a little awkward. 

 Before he could say anything else, the other kids gathered around, drawn by the buzz of the phone. Kiryu showed them all the message, before they ran to the beach to start their baseball game. Kiryu and Haruka joined them, after Kiryu tapped out  a quick response. 

-That made them happy. Talk to you later. 

 

 The afternoon continued as usual, with a lot of running around on the beach. When they sat down for dinner, Majima’s absence was felt by everyone. There was a moment of gloom, before Taichi said something about Snake Mask. The kids laughed as they reminisced about the wrestling match, and Kiryu was comforted that the kids had so many of their own good memories from the past two weeks. His stew also received compliments, and that was a direct result of Majima’s influence in the kitchen. 

 When it came time for homework, Majima was missed again, and not only because he was better at math than Kiryu. It took more time than it had in a while, but the kids all finished their assignments without too many arguments. 

 After the children had all gone to bed, Kiryu went out and took a walk along the beach. He checked his phone for messages, something he’d been doing all day. Was it only this morning that Majima was in his arms, laughing with him over bad jokes and good memories? He took a deep pull from the cigarette he was smoking and put his phone back in his pocket. There was no reason to worry. Majima might not have contacted him since his message to the kids that afternoon, but there were plenty of reasons why he hadn’t. 

 Kiryu reached the end of the beach, then turned around and started walking back the other way. He felt like a lovesick teen, waiting by the phone like this. Majima said he’d call, and he’d do it when he got the chance. Kiryu reminded himself that Yakuza work didn’t have set hours.

 He reached the large rocks at the other end of the beach when his phone rang. Kiryu scrambled to answer, and was relieved when Majima’s name appeared on the display. 

“Goro?”

“Heya, Kaz.” Majima answered.

“How did today go?” Kiryu asked. He took a seat on the sand, facing the last hint of the sunset on the horizon. 

“Frustrating and stupid. I won’t bore ya with the details.”

“You won’t bore me.” Kiryu said. He didn’t add that he’d been waiting to talk to him since he left.

 There was a heavy sigh. “I can’t tell ya how good it is to hear yer voice, Kaz. It’s been a long day.”

“You sound tired.”

“Yeah. I stopped in here for two minutes to change and drop off my stuff, then had to go to both offices. They’re still installing the fuckin’ windows on the top floor of my tower. That was supposed to be done weeks ago. We got three teams workin’ around the clock, and I warned ‘em that if there’s still a crane up on opening day, I’ll pull the damn thing down with my bare hands.”

“Hmm.” Kiryu started, but Majima wasn’t done. 

“So after that shit, I go to the Millennium Tower offices to visit the big guy, and he gets all cagey when I ask him about how things are goin’. It took trading a few punches, but I finally get it outta him that four of his new men are givin’ him trouble. That they’re pissed they didn’t get promoted after they switched to Saejima’s family. Wouldn’t be that big a deal, except that these four used to be my guys, and my guys are supposed to fuckin’ know better!” 

 Half a day and he’d already fought Saejima? Kiryu frowned. “That’s too bad. You aren’t hurt, are you?”

“Hurt? Me? Sounds like you think I lost. Whose side are ya on, Kiryu-chan?”

“I’m not answering that.”

 Majima chuckled. “It was barely a fight, and no, I didn’t break my knuckles on that thick skull of his. Broke a vase, but we got lotsa those.”

“Good.”

“Aw, Kaz,” Majima said, sounding calmer, “I shouldn’t be this pissed about today, but all I wanted was to be back at home with you and the little ones. Where are ya?”

 Kiryu dug his foot in the sand. It warmed his heart that Majima thought of his house as home. “On the beach. The stars are out. Where are you?”

“My apartment. I could probably see a star or two if I leaned my head out the window, but that’s about it. How am I supposed to fall asleep without my favourite pillow?”

“Heh, or me without my favourite blanket.”

 A sigh came through the phone receiver. Tinny, and too far away. It wasn’t going to be easy, but it was a comfort at least, to talk like this. 

“I got a big meeting tomorrow. Then I’m rounding up those idiots who were givin’ my bro grief. Not a sentence I thought I’d be sayin’ at the start of this year. Weird. I half-expected Saejima to have run off, but he’s too responsible for that. He hasn’t changed one bit.”

 Kiryu looked out at the waves. “It must be a big adjustment. For him, and everyone else.”

“Before I left, every once in a while he’d ask me about somethin’ that seems obvious, then I had to remember how much shit’s changed since the eighties.”

“Ten years was hard enough. Cell phones were shaped like bricks in ‘95, and the internet wasn’t even on my radar. Now it’s everywhere. Shiro keeps talking about how these new smartphones are changing things all over again.” Kiryu said. 

“I’m gettin’ one of those in a couple months. It’s pricey, so it’d be a pain in the ass to dump it if I had to, but I hate typin’ on this thing. It’s supposed to be easier on the big screen.”

“It took practice, but I’m pretty fast at typing with mine. Oh, and I found that picture you took of yourself.”

“I woulda taken some shots of places other than my face, but I thought back to Saturday, when ya lent yer phone to Haruka. I didn’t want to scar her for life.”

“Hmm.”

“What?”

“I hadn’t considered that we could send each other pictures like that.”

Majima laughed. “You’re behind the times, Kaz. It ain’t uncommon.”

“I know,” Kiryu said, “I just didn’t think that was something I’d ever...” He wasn’t sure how to finish that sentence. It felt like something they were too old to do. Then again, the idea of getting a photo like that was exciting. “Why not? I know how to delete photos off this thing now, so if I have advance notice, I can make sure the kids don’t see.”

“Good to know. Real good to know.” Majima said. “I gotta get some better lighting in here.”

“I don’t need professional looking photos.”

“Yeah, ya do, Kaz-chan. You deserve glamour shots.”

“Heh, I’ll be happy with anything you send me. With notice.”

“Uh huh, yeah, with notice.” Majima said, sounding distracted.

 There was a pause. “I should probably let you get some rest.” Kiryu said reluctantly. He stood up and dusted off the sand.

“It ain’t easy sayin’ goodbye to ya, Kaz. Don’t think it ever will be.”

“It’s not goodbye, remember?” Kiryu said, walking back up the beach towards the house, “I’ll talk to you tomorrow.”

“Yeah, tomorrow. I’ll call ya before that meeting.”

“Goodnight, Goro.”

“‘Nite, darlin’.”

 Kiryu had just locked the front door when his phone buzzed again. He went to his room and opened the message. 

-heres ur notice 

 

 Kiryu made an involuntary sound of surprise, and stared at his phone impatiently. When the photo finally appeared, he suddenly needed to sit down. Quickly, he crossed his room and fell into his desk chair to take a closer look. 

 The photo showed Majima’s bare torso, from his navel down. His leather pants were unzipped, and his bright underwear were pulled down. His hand was in view, curled around the shaft of his fully erect cock. Kiryu gripped the chair’s armrest as arousal shot through his body. Majima was somewhere in Kamurocho, sitting like this, looking like this, and thinking about him. Kiryu quickly rose and grabbed the large bottle of lube from his closet. He removed his pants and underwear and sat back down. He applied a generous amount of lube, and hit the call button. 

“There ya are.” Majima sighed into the phone. 

“I didn’t mean to keep you waiting.” Kiryu said softly. “Thanks for the photo. I hate that I have to delete it.”

“Whenever ya want it, I’ll send it again.” Majima said. There was a tension in his voice that was very suggestive. 

“Are you still… um..”

“Yeah. Hearin’ your sexy voice again got me goin’. Couldn’t even make it through one day.” Majima said, and groaned into the phone. “Where are ya now? Still on the beach?”

“No. I’m in the chair in my room. The one you were sitting in this morning.”

“And?” 

“And I’m thinking of you too. A-and touching myself.” Kiryu said in a low voice, running his fingers over the length of his cock. He heard a low chuckle, and knew that Majima had picked up on his hesitation. 

“Don’t tell me you’re gettin’ shy on me again, Kazzy. Or are ya just tryna be quiet?”

“I do have to be quiet.” Kiryu said. He hadn’t said anything remotely dirty over the phone since he was in his early twenties. It felt strange now, but he was starting to relax. “Your photo really turned me on.”

 Majima made a contented noise. “The thought of you sittin’ in that chair turns me on. What’re ya wearing?”

“Um, just a shirt.”

Another chuckle. “Bare-ass on the chair, huh? I like that. With yer hand around that perfect cock, right?”

“Right.” Kiryu said. “Are you… in bed?”

“Never made it that far. Sat myself down on the couch and had to call ya before doin’ anything else.”

“I appreciate that.”

“I know ya gotta be quiet,” Majima said, sounding strained, “but fuck I love hearing you talk.”

 Kiryu ran his thumb over the tip of his cock, trying to replicate that swirl Majima always did with his tongue. “You don’t have to be quiet, do you?” he asked. 

 A loud moan was the response, and it made Kiryu throb. “No, gorgeous. I can be loud. Can’t wait to get ya over here so we can be loud together.”

“Mmm, I’d like that.” Kiryu said, squeezing the base of his cock as he let his imagination run wild. Just the thought of Majima’s unzipped leather pants made him thrust his hips up into his hand. 

“I want you anywhere and everywhere.” Majima said with another moan. “I got a plan for when you get here in August, and I’m gonna do my best to stick with it, but now I’m thinkin’ I might need to have ya on this couch first.”

 Kiryu took a deep breath. “I’d really like that.”

“I’d bend ya over the side. Have ya grab the armrest as I take ya from behind.”

 Kiryu allowed himself a quiet moan. He could hear Majima breathing, and it further stoked the fire inside him. For a while, all he could hear was Majima’s breath through the phone. Majima could probably hear the same thing from him.

“I wish I’d fucked ya this morning, Kaz.” Majima said, “I know we had to be fast, but I coulda been fast and still gotten us both where we needed to go.”

“I like when you go fast with me.” Kiryu replied. He moved his hand quickly, imagining it belonged to Majima, reaching around to jerk him off as he had him bent over a couch. Heat flowed through his body, and he had to make sure he wasn’t gripping his phone too tightly. “Mmm, hard and fast.”

“Yeah, gorgeous. Hard and fast.” Majima repeated, breathing heavily now. “Are ya gonna cum for me? Like I came for you in that chair this morning?”

“Yes” Kiryu hissed between clenched teeth. He spoke just above a whisper. “I wish you could cum in my mouth again.”

“Fuck, Kaz. Right down that pretty throat. My Kiryu-chan.”

“Yours. All yours.”

 The noises Majima made were more lewd than any dirty video. Kiryu could almost feel his orgasm through the receiver. It set Kiryu off as well. He held the phone between his head and his shoulder and grabbed a handful of tissues, biting his lip as he came into them so he wouldn’t make a noise. The phone almost fell, but he managed to keep it against his ear. He could hear deep breaths on the other end of the line. 

“Did you?” Majima asked, sounding dazed. 

“Yeah.”

 A loud sigh. “Good.”

 Kiryu took a deep breath. “I’ll sleep better after that.” 

“Happy to help.” Majima replied, “It wasn’t all that fun in the middle, but I love that I got to start and end the day with you.”

 Kiryu smiled, imagining Majima in his boneless state. “Me too. If I could carry you to bed I would.”

“Now that’s just cruel. I have to carry my own ass to bed.” Majima said, sounding amused. “I should probably go do that, and let ya sleep.”

“Yeah. Probably. Thanks, not just for now but… for everything.”

“Sap.” Majima said, and they shared a quiet laugh. 

“Goodnight, Goro.”

“Talk to ya tomorrow, darlin’.”

 It was difficult to hang up, but he did. He finished cleaning himself up, and then, after admiring it one more time, he deleted the explicit photo. Kiryu had to check three times to make sure it was really gone, and when it was, he went back to his nightly routine. 

 When he laid down to sleep, it took him a while. He kept thinking of how much shame he would have felt if he’d seen a photo like that only a couple weeks ago, and how good it felt now to be free of that shame. When fatigue finally overtook him, Kiryu fell asleep with a smile on his face.

Chapter 53: The First Day

 Kiryu stood at the kitchen counter, doing the dishes alone. The clouds had rolled in the night before, and it had just started to rain. The sound filled the silence as he tried to plan out the call he was preparing to make. Majima had told him his meeting was in the afternoon, so there was plenty of time to make the call he was currently mulling over. 

 He thought back to his last days in Kamurocho. Saejima had been made patriarch, and the ceremony had taken far too long. Tojo Headquarters held a lot of painful memories, and Kiryu had still been fuming about having to fight Daigo. He’d said little, and spent most of the time trying not to pull at the scratchy suit he’d rented for the day. 

 Thinking back on it, he must have looked unapproachable, because even the men who usually greeted him kept their distance. He was happy for Saejima, but he was so preoccupied with keeping his anger at bay that he barely registered what was going on around him. 

 Kiryu quickly dried his hands and picked up his phone. There was no point overthinking this. It was just a phone call. He found the contact and hit the call button without any further delay. A respectful voice answered the phone. 

 Kiryu stood up straight as he responded. “Kiryu Kazuma for Chairman Dojima.”

“Oh!” the voice said. “Uh, of course. Just a moment please, Kiryu-san. Sorry, uh, Fourth Chairman.”

 The call was transferred, then-

“Kiryu-san? Is something wrong?”

“No, Daigo, nothing’s wrong.” he said. “How is everything going?”

 There was a pause. “Why? What did Majima-san tell you?”

 Kiryu frowned. Daigo sounded suspicious, and Kiryu couldn’t blame him. He’d never called for no particular reason before. Honesty seemed best. “Majima and I didn’t talk much about business, but he did say that things had been stressful. I asked him if checking in once in a while would be useful and he said yes, so this is what I’m doing.”

 A longer pause. 

“I’m taking care of the clan as best I can.” Daigo finally said, his voice flat.

 Kiryu shifted from one foot to the other. “How is Saejima fitting in?”

“Fine, all things considered. He’s had some trouble this week with some of the younger men, but that should be resolved shortly. Anyone who spends enough time with Saejima-san is ready to follow him anywhere, so it’s only a matter of time before the trouble-makers change their minds.”

 Daigo’s stiff and formal tone was a far cry from the boy he used to be. A pang of guilt hit Kiryu as he thought of how different Daigo’s life would have been if he hadn’t been there to sway him into anger and delinquency. Or, Kiryu thought, if he had been there for Daigo, and not in prison. He frowned. That had never occurred to him before, and a different kind of guilt struck.

“That is,” Daigo continued, “unless Majima gets to them first. He is back in town, right?”

“Right,” Kiryu said, putting his thoughts aside. “He flew back yesterday.”

“Good. I wouldn’t be thrilled if he skipped the meeting he scheduled with me today.”

“Majima scheduled the meeting?” Kiryu asked. He didn’t know why that surprised him, but it did. 

“I already know what it’s about, so if you’re calling to try to convince me to give him a better deal, don’t worry, we’ll figure it out.” Daigo said. 

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Kiryu replied.

“What was it like having him in Okinawa?”

 Kiryu froze for a second before reassuring himself that Daigo’s choice of words was innocent. “Good. He got along with the kids and cooked us some meals.”

“That’s a surprise. The first part anyway. I knew he could cook, but I’ve never seen him interact with children.”

“I didn’t know he could cook, so that was a surprise for me. And the kids are big into baseball and wrestling right now, so that helped.”

“I can’t remember the last time I played baseball.” Daigo said, sounding slightly less formal. “Not that I was ever great at it.”

 There was that guilt again. Kiryu wondered if he should bring up the time Daigo yelled at the owner of the batting centre over a ball that nearly hit him. Kiryu smiled, but decided it wasn't the best time to bring up childhood tantrums. “Majima also said you were working too hard.”

“There’s a lot of work to do.” came the stern reply. “There’s always a lot of work to do.”

“Yeah… I’m sure.” Kiryu said. He took a seat at one of the kitchen chairs. “When I spoke to Saejima, he was said he was impressed with you.”

“I’m the chairman, he’s supposed to say that.”

 Kiryu grit his teeth. Nothing he was saying felt very encouraging. “I know enough about Saejima to know he isn’t a kiss-ass. You can trust what he says.”

“I do, trust him, I mean. He’s blunt, and tells it like it is without being an asshole about it. He’s kind of like you that way.”

“Heh, I’m glad you don’t think of me as an asshole.”

“No… I don’t.” Daigo said. “But I hope you can understand that I am trying my best here.”

“Yeah. I get that.” Kiryu said. There was no point scolding him any further for the choices he’d made. Daigo knew where he stood, and nothing more needed to be said. “I know you’re busy, but why don’t I call next week sometime.”

“Oh? Okay, sure.” Daigo said. “Let me give you my new cell number.” There was a bit of fumbling while Kiryu found a piece of paper and a pen, before he copied down the number Daigo read to him. “I only saw photos of the land where you live. Next time you call, I’d like to hear more about it.”

“I can do that. It’s a beautiful place. I don’t remember if I ever thanked you for protecting it.”

“Huh. Well… don’t worry about it.” Daigo said, sounding confused maybe? It was hard for Kiryu to tell over the phone. 

“Take care, Daigo.”

“Goodbye, Kiryu-san.”

 Kiryu ended the call and let out a breath. That had been more awkward than he expected, but it was a start. 

 An hour later, Kiryu’s cell phone rang. He put down the weights he was working out with and wiped his face with a towel before answering. 

“Kiryu-chan!” Majima shouted, which instantly got his back up. 

“You didn’t have to yell.” he said as he walked to the kitchen to pour himself a glass of water. There was a lot of background noise on Majima’s end. “Where are you?”

“In the car. Say hi to Nishida and Minami.”

“Hi.” Kiryu said. He took a long drink of water as he tried to remember which of Majima’s men was Minami.

“Say hi back, dammit!” Majima ordered. There were two loud thuds. Then he faintly heard two other voices, followed by a piercing laugh from Majima. “They’re takin’ me to go see Daigo-chan, and if they’re good, I’ll take ‘em out for ice cream after. What a nice boss, huh?”

“Thanks, boss.” Came the distant answer. 

 Majima sounded different. Kiryu knew he should expect that. He hadn’t spoken to the Mad Dog in a while. After the last two weeks, it almost sounded foreign. “I talked with Daigo this morning. I didn’t know you set up this meeting.”

“Hmm, what else did he tell ya?”

“Nothing much. What’s this meeting about?” Kiryu asked.

“It’s nothin’ ya need to worry about. We’re renegotiating a deal we made before I got sold out-”

“And we’re gonna be rakin’ it in, huh, boss?” That voice had to be Minami, because Nishida knew better. There was another loud thump. 

“Interrupt me again and I’ll stuff ya out the window.” Majima yelled, right into the phone again. 

“Well, you seem busy…” Kiryu said, and didn’t try to hide the irritation in his voice.  

“Always. Still, had to call.” Majima said, a touch more softly. Then, “Why’d ya let that car pass us, we’re in a hurry, dammit!”

 As annoyed as Kiryu was at being yelled at, he had a thought that made him smile. He decided to approach this from a different angle. “I love you, Goro.”

“A…” Majima said, a strangled sound that Kiryu knew meant he was caught off guard. “Yep. Same.”

 Heh, that worked. He continued, “I wish you were here so we could cuddle up on the beach together and watch the waves.”

“That’s a good idea, Kiryu-chan. Thanks for the tip.” Majima said sternly, like they were having a serious conversation.

“I missed you last night. And this morning.”

“I see what you’re doin’ here, and it ain’t fair.” Majima said with a genuine laugh. “But I know what ya mean. Hey, on the seventeenth, are ya gonna be home after three?”

“Probably. Why?”

“Cause we’re gonna send ya a box.”

“You don’t have to do that.”

“Course I do.” Majima said with another genuine laugh, “I can’t make it out to sing ya a birthday song myself, because someone scheduled three meetings that day.” 

Another thump. 

“What’s that sound? Are you kicking their seats?” Kiryu asked. 

“If you had to sit through all these shitty, mandatory meetings, Kiryu-chan, you’d be kickin’ seats too. We’re pulling up to the gate, so I’ll talk to you later.”

“Sure. Leave Nishida’s seat alone.”

“Bye, Kiryu-chan!” Majima yelled. Kiryu was ready for that, and had pulled the receiver away from his ear. The call ended, and Kiryu took a long drink of water. Two minutes later, his phone buzzed with a message. 

 

luv u 2

 

 Haruka was right, he did text like a teenager. Kiryu sent a heart in return, and went back to the other room to continue with his workout. 

 

 It wasn’t till the end of the day, when the kids were about to get ready for bed, that Majima called again. While it rang, Kiryu quickly organized. He hit the middle button to answer the call, then with Haruka’s help, hit the button for speaker phone. 

“Goodnight, Uncle Majima!” The kids all yelled at once. Majima laughed loudly. 

“You’re on speaker.” Kiryu quickly added. 

“Aw, goodnight, little ones. I miss all you guys.”

“We miss you too.” Haruka said.

“Is it raining in Tokyo too?” Eri yelled. 

“Nope. Clear skies out here. Be good to Uncle Kaz, kiddos.”

 There was another chorus of goodnights, and Kiryu said he’d call back in fifteen minutes. Majima agreed, and Kiryu did his best to calm the kids back down. 

 It was closer to half an hour before the kids were all in bed. Kiryu returned to his room and quickly unrolled his futon, sitting down on it before he called Majima. 

“Hey, sorry about that.” he said. 

“Don’t be.” Majima answered. “Ya got a job to do same as me, and I do miss those kids.”

“How’d your meeting go?”

“About how I wanted it to go. Daigo-chan’s gettin’ real good at negotiating. I had to hold back tears I was so proud.”  

“So it was about money?”

“Ain’t it always? Daigo and I had a good talk. We got lots of plans in motion, and our numbers are growin’ again.” Majima said, pausing to yawn, “We just gotta stay sharp about who’s rising up the ranks too fast. We don’t have as many grizzled old patriarchs to keep people in line anymore.”

“Heh, now you’re the grizzled-”

“Finish that sentence and I’m hangin’ up on you.” Majima said, then chuckled. “Point is, everything’s fine over here, which is good, because I can focus on my own shit with The Hills.”

“When’s the grand opening?” Kiryu asked. 

“Uh, the twenty-sixth or seventh? Whichever day is the Saturday. Doesn’t look like I’ll be able to fly out before then, either.”

“It’s fine. I wasn’t expecting you to be able to get back here so soon.”

“It was hard not to walk into HQ and retire on the spot. If a few things were different, I might’ve.” Majima said, then sighed. “But Daigo’s got too much to handle on his own, and Saejima won’t admit it, but he’s still figuring shit out. I can’t leave either of them right now. Not even-”

“It’s okay.” Kiryu said, “You don’t need to choose. You still have me, even if we’re not in the same room.”

“You don’t know how good that is to hear.” Majima said quietly, then he cleared his throat. “ Speakin’ of romantic shit, that line ya pulled on me in the car earlier was hilarious.”

“I had to, you were being annoying.”

 Majima laughed. “I can’t argue with ya there. You get it though, right? I can’t give away this secret affair of ours by actin’ all lovey-dovey.”

“Yeah. Yeah, I know.”

“Don’t sound sad, darlin’. We’ll work it out eventually.” Majima said gently. “It’s been hard not bragging about ya all day.”

“I get it. I wish I could tell people about you.”

“D’ya think your old cop buddy would approve? Or your pretty young cop buddy?”

 Kiryu scratched the back of his neck. “Uh, I don’t really talk to Kaoru anymore. Not for a couple of years now.”

“Not the one I meant. The short one with the blue jacket.”

“Wha.. wait, Tanimura?” Kiryu asked. He couldn’t help laughing. “I never thought of Tanimura as pretty. I guess he isn’t my type.”

“Good!” Majima said. “He ain’t mine either. Too scrawny, and I don’t go for cops.”

“He is pretty good in a fight. Though I did take him and Akiyama down at the same time once.”

“Tryna make me jealous, Kazzy?”

“Heh, no. Just trying to impress you.”

“Oh, I’m impressed.” Majima said, then let out a noise of frustration. “Tomorrow’s gonna be such a pain in the ass. I have to be at the Hills first thing in the morning, then there’s some clan shit late at night.”

“I should probably let you sleep then.”

“Yeah, I’ll have to get up even earlier than you.” Majima said, sounding just as reluctant as Kiryu. “I’ll call ya when I can tomorrow.”

“Haruka and I are going shopping. I’ll be around unless I’m in the middle of that.”

“Sounds good, Kaz.” Majima said with a yawn. “I’ll be thinkin’ of ya.”

“I’ll be thinking of you too.”

 The silence of Kiryu’s room made him miss the yelling. This wasn’t going to be easy, but Majima’s words were a comfort. They’d figure this out eventually.

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 54: The First Week

 The morning of Kiryu’s forty-second birthday, he awoke to a loud crash. He stumbled through his room and into the kitchen, still bleary-eyed, and only wearing sweatpants. 

“I told you to be careful.” Riona hissed. 

“I didn’t mean to!” Koji replied, then turned to look his direction. “Oh, hi Uncle Kaz. Did we wake you up?”

“Happy Birthday.” Mitsuo said. “We’re going to make breakfast.”

Kiryu blinked at the three of them. “Thanks.” he said, still half-asleep. “I’ll go change.”

“You just relax, Uncle Kaz. We’ve got this.” Riona said, clearly in charge of the operation. 

“Let me know if you need help.” Kiryu said. 

 Breakfast was good, much better than the first year they’d attempted to make him breakfast. The kids were always more excited about Kiryu’s birthday than he was, and the kids had to hush the two youngest girls from giving away their plans. 

 When he was a child, the Sunflower orphanage was often at full capacity. It became expensive to celebrate every birthday, so Kiryu was used to nobody making a fuss about his. He didn’t want that to happen at Morning Glory. The kids didn’t get as much as other kids their ages, but he did his best to make sure their birthdays were special. It was touching that they tried to do the same for him. 

 Even if that meant there was a bigger mess in the kitchen that morning than usual. After they all left, Kiryu got to work. The kids were going to make him dinner as well, but it wasn’t his job to do the dinner dishes, so it was easier to forgive this mess.

 The kids had all settled back into their usual routine, but Kiryu felt different. Outwardly, he was the same man, but inside, he felt more relaxed than he had in a long time. He was in a surprisingly healthy relationship, he had friends, the kids, a job he enjoyed, and he wasn’t ignoring an aspect of his personality that turned out to be a bigger than he ever expected. He could be himself, even if he wasn’t doing anything differently. He knew who he was, and he was finally okay with that. His musing was interrupted by his phone alerting him that he had a new message from Majima. 

Happy Birthday, Kazuma! I’m in my first meeting. Call me when you get that delivery.

 

 Kiryu chuckled. A fully typed out message, with capital letters and everything. That was rare. He wondered how long that must have taken. He typed out a reply. 

 

Thanks. Talk to you later. 

 

 Once his morning chores were done, Kiryu left the house to go into town for lunch. He wanted to make sure he was home for the package Majima was having delivered, but the little soba place he liked offered a fifty percent discount on birthdays, and he wasn’t going to miss that. 

 As soon as he pulled out his ID, the lady behind the counter began to clap in excitement. She gave him extra of all his favourite toppings, and placed the large bowl in front of him with a flourish and a song. It embarrassed him, but at least there wasn’t anyone else at the stand. 

 After thanking her, Kiryu dug in. She hovered over her only customer as he ate. “So, Kiryu-san, how are those sweet children of yours?”

“They’re fine. Summer break is in a month, and they’re already counting down the days.”

“Oh, I’m sure. I miss the carefree summers of childhood.”

 Kiryu nodded and continued eating.

“And…” she added, stepping closer to the counter. “How is your Tokyo sweetheart?”

 Kiryu paused so he didn’t choke on his noddles. He’d forgotten Majima had told her he had a girlfriend. He finished his bite slowly as he considered what to say. “She’s good. I’m visiting a friend in August, so I’ll get to see her then.”

“Oh, that’s nice. I was telling my cousin about how lovely it is that you have a lady in your life. Does she like children?”

 Kiryu nodded. It wouldn’t hurt to tell a variation of the truth. “She’s great with kids. Haruka, the oldest, gets along with her really well. The last time they were together she gave her some beginner makeup tips, and cooked us some great meals.”

“Wonderful.” The woman said. What was her name again? Miku? Mitsu? Yeah, Mitsu. Kiryu had never taken the time to remember because he didn’t like the way she was always trying to set him up. If he’d known it was as easy as making up a girlfriend, he would have done it three years ago. Not that Goromi was made up, but there was just a lot more to his partner than just her. He smiled at the thought.

“And you said that she’s a hostess?” Mitsu asked. Kiryu had taken another bite, so he just nodded. “My aunt was a hostess, you know. My mother’s older sister.” she said. “She didn’t get along with the rest of the family, so she ran off to Hokkaido to start a new life. My grandparents disowned her for it, but after they died, she often came back to visit.” She clasped her hands together and smiled fondly. “She was so elegant and ladylike, and always brought me such beautiful presents.”

 Kiryu kept eating as she described some of the gifts she’d received. Mitsu looked happy to have someone to talk to, and Kiryu had no problem listening while he ate. 

“My mother had taken over the restaurant at that point, and she was just as happy with her quiet life here as her sister was with hers. After my mother passed, I found all their old letters to each other. My grumpy old grandfather had always told me my aunt had wasted her life with bad decisions, but I found postcards and photos from every part of the world. My aunt and her best friend were the top two hostesses in their town. They worked at a large cabaret, travelled together often, and had every comfort in life. Neither of them ever married, but they lived together until they died as happy old ladies.”

 Mitsu looked a little misty-eyed, and laughed. “Oh, listen to me, Kiryu-san, talking your ear off like always, but whenever I hear someone talk about a hostess, I think of my beautiful aunt.”

 Kiryu didn’t mention that she was the one who brought up hostesses. “It sounds like your aunt lived a good life.”

“I think so too. For a time, I think my family was worried I’d run off after her, but I could never do that. I love my shop, and I love Okinawa. And I fell in love with my husband here, but that’s not as important.”

 She finished that sentence with a gale of laughter. Kiryu laughed politely with her. After a long back and forth, she outright refused to take his money, and wished him a happy birthday. After thanking her, Kiryu headed north towards the monorail with his hands in his pockets, thinking of when he’d walked down these streets with Majima. He stopped into Aqua Sky for a quick drink before heading back to the monorail.

 He was steps from home when he stopped in his tracks. He’d been thinking about the woman from the soba place and her hostess aunt, when it suddenly struck him that he might have something in common with a disowned, unmarried woman who lived out her days with a live-in “best friend” by her side. He wondered if he would have put those pieces together a month ago. He’d have to tell Majima and see what he thought. 

 An hour later a truck pulled up to the house, and Kiryu accepted a large box from a delivery man. The word fragile was written in large letters on every side. He set the box down on the dining table and called Majima. The phone rang for a while before he picked up. 

“Did ya get it?” Majima asked loudly.

“I did. Do you have a minute to talk.”

“Yep, I found an empty room at HQ. Two meetings down, one to go.”

“Right. How’s that going?”

“Well, I stayed awake, which wasn’t easy. I even caught my bro holdin’ back a yawn. Did the box make it in one piece?”

“Yeah, I think so. Can I open this in front of the kids?”

“Yep, you should open it in front of them, and call me again after ya do. Are they home yet? What time is it?”

 Kiryu checked his watch. “They should all be home pretty soon.”

“Good. You’re lucky, Kaz. I wanted to get my whole family together and get a video of them singin’ Happy Birthday to ya, but Nishida stopped me. Said we couldn’t spare the people with everything goin’ on, and that ya wouldn’t like it.”

“Remind me to thank Nishida.”

 He heard a chuckle, then Kiryu told Majima about his talk at lunch. 

“How ‘bout that. I told ya there was more of us than ya thought. I could tell ya some Tojo Clan stories that would shock yer pants off.”

“Heh, you’re the only one who gets to take my pants off.”

“Damn right, Kazzy. Don’t think I don’t love to hear that.” There was a pause, and when he spoke again his voice sounded almost gentle. “It’s been weird switchin’ between work mode and talking to you.”

“What do you mean?” Kiryu said. He knew what he meant, but he wanted to hear Majima say it. 

“Aw, you know. I love runnin’ wild, but I also gotta be a patriarch, a company owner, a fuckin’ advisor of all things, and hell, even a brother again. I gotta watch my back more than I ever have, and shit, it’s exhausting. But with you, I’m just me. No, that ain’t right. You let me be me. That’s a helluva thing, Kaz. I miss just… bein’ me.”

“Goro.” Kiryu said. He felt touched and wasn’t sure what else to say.  

“How’s that for an honest answer, huh? Call it a birthday treat.” Majima said with a laugh. “Speakin’ off, I bought somethin’ yesterday. Somethin’ to wear when ya come see me.”

“A shirt?” Kiryu asked, smiling when Majima laughed again. 

“You’re not too far off. I put it on this morning and it fits. I even took a picture.”

“Oh? And when do I get to see that?”

“If ya got time before the kids get home I could send it now.”

 Kiryu checked his watch. “I probably wouldn’t have time to do anything but look at it.”

 Majima chuckled. “That’s fine. I gotta hang up to do this. Call me back.”

 The call ended before Kiryu could reply. As he waited, he thought about how much he was enjoying their daily phone calls. It wasn’t predictable when Majima would call, but knowing they could at least check in with each other made the long distance sting a little less. 

 Finally, the photo loaded, and Kiryu sucked in a breath. It was taken in a small bathroom, and he could see Majima’s outstretched arm in the shot, from an overhead angle. He had on dark pants, but instead of a shirt, he wore what looked liked a bunch of black leather straps. The bathroom mirror was behind him, and in the reflection he could see the straps cross over the eyes and mouth of the hannya. Majima had a wicked look in his eye, his back was arched, and his tongue was out. The hand that wasn’t holding the phone was down by his hip, his gloved thumb hooked into his belt loop. 

 Kiryu’s staring was interrupted by another photo. The photo was taken from a similar angle, but now Majima wore his dark grey suit, with a purple dress shirt and a grey tie. Kiryu recognized the decor behind him as the Tojo clan headquarters. Before he could look at the second photo for long. Majima called again.  

“What’d ya think?”

“Hot. You look really hot.”

Majima chuckled, “Hot, huh? Imagine how I feel, havin’ to wear the harness under this suit all day.”

“You’re still wearing it?” Kiryu asked, as heat spread through his body. 

“It’s your birthday, darlin’. I needed something to keep me thinkin’ of ya while I sit through all these boring meetings, and a silver tie just wasn’t enough.”

“That’s… a great birthday present. I don’t know whether to thank you, or get mad that you told me now instead of when I have more time to myself.” Kiryu said. Majima’s delighted laugh pulled at his heartstrings. “I love you.”

“I-” Majima started, but there was a noise in the background. Distantly, Kiryu could hear Saejima. 

“Bro, we’re startin’ up again. The fuck are ya doin’ in here?”

“Gimme a sec.” Majima called, then once more addressed Kiryu. “Okay,  what you just said, but double it. Triple it even.” he barked, as if he were talking to a subordinate. 

“Yes, Boss Majima.” Kiryu said. 

“Hah, that’s what I like to hear.” Majima said, then hung up the phone. 

 Kiryu leaned back and opened the new photos. Taking a closer look at the second one, he saw a desk in the background with all the drawers pulled out. Had Majima been ransacking the office as they were talking? The thought made him chuckle. Then he swiped back to the other picture. The one with the harness. He tried not to let his thoughts get out of hand, but the idea of pulling off Majima’s suit till he was only wearing leather wouldn’t leave his mind. 

 It occurred to him that while he couldn’t act on those thoughts right now, he could at least send them. He started a new message.

 

I want to rip off that suit 

 

 Kiryu hit send, then wondered if that had been a good idea. Majima was in a meeting. What if someone saw? He shut his phone. Oh well. There were worse things he could’ve sent, and it was too late now.

 The message he received back was a heart. It was simple, but it made Kiryu happy. This had already been a good birthday. He stretched, then went outside to wait for the kids to finish school. 

   ~

 

 The kids were all out of breath when they arrived. After impatiently waiting for everyone to get home, they nearly pushed Kiryu back into the house towards that mysterious cardboard box.

 Their enthusiasm was infectious, and Kiryu couldn’t help laughing as they all sat down to watch him open up the box. After removing the tape and opening it, the first thing he saw was a big ball of bubble wrap and tape, so large it took up most of the space inside. 

“Hmm.” Kiryu said.

“It looks like a beach ball.” Ayako said as Kiryu pulled it out. Inside, he could hear the slosh of liquid. He found an opening where he could remove enough of the tape to grab onto the neck of a glass bottle. He pulled out a large bottle of Laphroaig 10, the single malt whiskey they’d drank together at the bar.

“Is that a good kind?” Shiro asked. 

“Yeah. Really good.” Kiryu said, putting the bottle down in the middle of the table so it wouldn’t get knocked down. He passed the bubble wrap along so it could be pulled apart and popped by the younger kids. “Oh, it looks like there’s some stuff in here for you guys too.”

 Kiryu pulled out several tubes full of the rubber balls they used for baseball, nine in total. He passed them around as well.

 Mitsuo took one out of the packaging.  “This is great! Uncle Majima said he’d get us a new ball after he hit one into the ocean.”

“That’s generous.” Kiryu said. 

“There’s more stuff in here.” Eri said impatiently, standing on her tiptoes to see in the box. 

“Okay.” Kiryu said. He pulled out two silicone molds, with six squares apiece. Kiryu read the label and nodded. “This is for making really big ice cubes. That’s good for when you want to keep your drink cold but don’t want the ice to melt to fast.”  

 Several of the kids nodded as if they already knew that. 

“What’s that?” Izumi asked, peering into the box next to Eri. She pointed at the shiny material at the bottom of the box. Kiryu took out a pair of silky pyjamas, similar to Majima’s black sleep pants, but these were grey, a few shades darker than his favourite suit. Thee material was thin, and would be much cooler than the sweatpants he usually slept in. The material felt good against his fingers, and he let the kids touch it as well. 

“Uncle Majima borrowed our measuring tape when he was here.” Riona said. 

 Ayako nodded. “We measured a pair of your pants together so he could make sure they fit.”

 Kiryu stood up and held up the pants to himself. “Thanks, girls. They look perfect.” He picked up the top and an envelope fell out from between the folds of the fabric. Haruka and the other kids all pointed till Kiryu sat back down and opened it up. Inside was a fairly generic looking birthday card, signed with nothing else but Majima’s signature. To Kiryu’s great surprise, there was also a return ticket to Tokyo, dated Tuesday August third, to Saturday the seventh. 

 Kiryu blinked at the ticket, then looked up to see Haruka smiling at him. “It’s all arranged.” she said. “I’ve already talked to the neighbours and Mikio, so we won’t be without a grown-up for more than a day.”

 Kiryu gave a sharp nod. It was about all he could manage at the moment, but the relentless generosity wasn’t yet over. The kids had made him birthday cards, and he had three new portraits of himself to add to his bedroom wall. 

“This is from all of us. Happy Birthday.” Taichi said formally, and handed him another, much smaller box, wrapped so perfectly it must have been Ayako’s handiwork. Kiryu carefully unwrapped it, and was shocked once again.

“A Golem Tiger.” he said under his breath. 

“It’s the newest one.” Koji said, pointing out the model number, just under the Pocket Circuit logo. 

“I know.” Kiryu said. He hadn’t had his hands on a slot car in over a year, but he still kept up with the new makes and models. He also knew just how expensive it was. “This is too much.” he added, and looked sternly at Haruka. 

“We all spent one allowance, and the rest was Uncle Majima. He insisted.” she said, just as sternly. She crossed her arms over her chest, and didn’t look like she was going to back down. The rest of the kids were grinning at him. He had no choice but to relent. Haruka’s expression melted into a smile. 

“Heh,” Kiryu said, “how did I get so lucky?”

“Probably ‘cause you’re so nice to us kids.” Taichi said. The kids nodded along. 

“Thank you. All of you.” he said, looking around at his smiling children. 

“We’re making you dinner too, remember.” Shiro said. 

 Ayako stood up. “Yes, you should relax and play with your car, Uncle Kaz. We’ll take care of everything.” 

 It almost made him laugh how much she sounded like a mother. He left dinner in the hands of his little chefs, and put his presents away. 

 After leaving Majima a short voicemail, and pulling out the few bits and pieces he had left from his old cars, Kiryu sat at the outside table with the kids who weren’t cooking to tinker with his new toy. His phone buzzed, but he knew Majima must have been busy because the message only said:

talk2nite

 

 Dinner was pork and soba noodles, which was very similar to Kiryu’s lunch. He didn’t mind having one of his favourite meals twice in one day. It just showed how well the kids knew him. Haruka had also brought home a small cake. There wasn’t much more than a few mouthfuls each, but it tasted great. No one complained at all when it was time for homework, which was also a great gift. 

 All too soon, the kids were saying goodnight to him. Kiryu made sure to thank each child individually, and they all went to bed with smiles on their faces. Last of all was Haruka, who sat with him outside for a few minutes while he had a glass of his new whiskey and his last smoke of the day. 

“This was a great birthday, Haruka.” Kiryu said. “You did a lot of hard work, and I really appreciate it.”

“I don’t even want to think about what my life would be like without you, Uncle Kaz. It’s the least I can do.”

 Kiryu extinguished his cigarette and pulled her into a slightly awkward side hug, making Haruka laugh. It was more openly sentimental than they usually were with each other, but he was too content to feel embarrassed. After Haruka started yawning, she left for bed, and Kiryu went to his room to try on his new pyjamas. They felt just as soft on the inside, and fit well. There was a small red dragon embroidered over the shirt pocket, and he liked that detail. 

 He looked at his phone. Holding it up at the same angle as Majima had in his photos, he tried to pose in a way that showed off both the top and bottoms of the pyjamas. At the last second, he undid the buttons of the top and let it hang open. He could see why Majima often did this near a mirror, as it was a pain to guess the right angle without seeing the screen. 

 He hit the button, and the camera click had never sounded louder. He grit his teeth, knowing there was a chance the kids might have heard it. This wasn’t the first photo he’d sent to Majima this week, but it was the first one he’d taken of himself while the kids were home.

 He reminded himself that if they asked, he could say he was just taking a photo of his presents, which was technically true. He examined the photo. It didn’t look as artful as the ones Majima took, but he wasn’t going to risk taking another. Kiryu sent it, and set out his futon. Ten minutes after he’d turned out the light and laid down, his phone finally buzzed. He’d barely raised it his ear when he heard Majima’s voice. 

“Kaz, I’ve been tryna get a chance to call ya for hours. This is the first time I’ve been alone all day.”

 Majima sounded frustrated, but it was still a relief to hear his voice. Kiryu smiled. “Don’t worry about it. How did the meetings go.”

“Aw, I don’t wanna talk about that. It’s your birthday. Tell me everything.”

“Heh, okay.” Kiryu described his evening with the kids, how excited they were to give him their cards and the pocket circuit car, and the dinner they made him. Majima listened attentively despite the exhaustion in his voice. 

“Did you get the photo?” Kiryu asked after he was finished. 

Majima sighed. “Yeah. And ya look even better than I thought ya would.”

“They feel great. Thank you for all my presents. I feel very spoiled. I ended the day with a glass of whiskey, and thought about the night we played darts.”

“I was gonna get ya a fancier whiskey, but I kept thinkin’ about it breaking in some delivery truck.”

“No, you chose well, even if you did spend too much.”

“Hah, this was me holdin’ back. I wanted to get ya a dozen of those little cars, but Haruka said you’d try to return ‘em if I did. She was a real big help, figurin’ out the dates and everything to getcha over here.”

“You didn’t have to-”

“Shut up, of course I did! You deserve the best, Kaz.” Majima said loudly. 

 Kiryu had to respond quietly, but tried to sound firm. “It’s my birthday. Don’t tell me to shut up.”

 Majima laughed. “Fuck, I love you. I kept thinkin’ of ways to sneak over there today, but it just didn’t work out.”

“It’s only been a week. I wasn’t expecting that.”

“Still.”

“These really feel nice against my skin.” Kiryu said, running a hand over the silky fabric of the pyjama top he never bothered buttoning back up. 

“Bring ‘em in August. We’ll slide around in bed together.”

“I was already planning on it.” Kiryu said. “You sound tired, Goro. Are you at home now.”

“Yeah, and I’m fine. The last few days it’s felt like every time I fix a problem it gets replaced by three more, but it’s fine. I’d be pullin’ out my hair if I didn’t have you to talk to at the end of a day like this.”

“If I could take away all your stress, I would.”

“Kiryu-chan,” Majima said with a sigh, “you already do.”

“Are you still wearing that harness thing?”

“Yeah… and that’s about it.” Majima said, suddenly sounding far less fatigued, “I had to get outta that suit.”

“I bet you look fantastic.” Kiryu said,  stretching his legs as he laid on his back. 

 Majima made a low sound that let Kiryu know they were thinking about the same thing. “I’d be a whole lot better if you had yer hands on me.”

“Do it for me.”

“Kaz.” Majima breathed. “After wearin’ this all day I ain’t gonna last long. I’ve been achin’ for ya so bad.”

“After thinking about you wearing that all day, I probably won’t either.” Kiryu replied, trailing his hand down his body and underneath the waistband of his new pants. “I couldn’t delete that picture. I’ve been staring at it since you sent it.”

“Mmm, hard and fast then?” 

“Yes.” Kiryu hissed. He wanted nothing more in that moment than for Majima to be with him, but this was a lot better than nothing. Majima’s voice sent shivers down his spine, and he needed more. “Talk to me. Tell me what you’d do if I was over there right now.”

“If I had ya here…” Majima mused. “You’d crawl into bed with me, and push me onto my knees with those big strong hands of yours.”

“That sounds good.” Kiryu said, slipping his pants down. In the dark room, he fumbled for the lube bottle he’d conveniently placed next to his futon. 

“I got this metal headboard. I’d hang on to that, and let you hang onto me.”

 He could imagine himself holding on to the back of that harness, in the giant bed Majima kept boasting about. “I’d like that.” he whispered, stroking himself till he was fully hard.

“Kiryu-chan, I’d wear anything for you. I’d do anything ya ever wanted. Ya know that right? Birthday or not.”

“Yeah.” Kiryu replied, keeping his voice low. “And it makes me feel… really lucky to have you.”

“Do you know how many times over the years I’ve laid here and thought about you? How many times I’ve dragged my ass into this bed after a fight and tried to picture how good it would feel to bring you back home with me?”

“Goro.” Kiryu whispered. 

“And now I know what your hands feel like, Kiryu-chan.” Majima replied, his voice low and intense. “I know what you taste like. I know what you sound like when you’re turned on.”

 Kiryu let out a low moan. Majima responded in the same way. 

“Yeah, gorgeous, just like that. And now that I know all these things, I want you even more. I got a taste for ya, Kiryu-chan. I’m addicted.”

“Goro.” he said again. There was a long pause while they both breathed into the phone. Kiryu was almost painfully hard now, his fist wrapped firmly around his cock as he moved his hand quickly up and down his shaft. “Keep talking.”

“I’d do anything for you, Kaz. I want my tongue on every part of your skin. I wanna hold your dick against mine and jerk us both off till we can’t fuckin’ take it anymore.”

“Yes.” Kiryu said. It was so hard to stay quiet but he had no choice. He grit his teeth. “I’m already so close.”

“Fuck, Kaz, ya got me so hard. I could pop just listenin’ to you breathe. I hate that you’re gonna cum all over that gorgeous chest and I’m not even there to lick it off.” 

 As the minutes went by, Majima’s moans grew louder and louder.  Kiryu bit his lip as his limbs tensed. “Goro…” Kiryu started, but couldn’t finish his sentence. His orgasm overtook him, and he fought hard to remain quiet, breathing hard into the phone as he came onto his bare chest. Majima swore over and over as his voice sounded more and more strained. 

“Come on, Goro.” Kiryu urged breathlessly. “Cum for me.”

 Majima whimpered in response, then let out a strangled gasp before growing quiet. Kiryu sighed. “You okay?”

 Majima’s laugh sounded delirious. “Fuckin’ great. Wait, let me take this damn thing off.”

 Kiryu heard rustling. So Majima had been wearing the harness. He wouldn’t have blamed him if he’d lied about still having it on. It looked good, but it didn’t look comfortable. Kiryu took that time to clean himself up.

“Better?” Kiryu asked when it was clear Majima’s ear was back against his phone. 

“Much better.” Majima said. “You alright, Kaz?”

“I’m great. I was thinking earlier how I never expected that being with you would make me more sentimental.”

“Hey, don’t put that on me, Kazzy. You’re the sentimental one.”

“No, it’s not just me.” Kiryu said. “You love just as fiercely as you fight.”

“And that’s good?”  

“It’s perfect.”

 Majima laughed. “You’re weird, Kiryu-chan. And come on, it’s yer birthday, I’m supposed to be the one handin’ out compliments.”

“You’ve done more than enough today. I love you.”

“I love you.” Majima said warmly, then his tone turned completely melodramatic. “As fiercely as I fight!”

“Heh, shut up.”

 They laughed together and soon said their goodnights. Kiryu dozed off, thinking about how much he was looking forward to going back to Kamurocho in August.

Chapter 55: The First Month

 The July heat was oppressive, and almost everyone at Morning Glory was in a bad mood. The kids all moved slowly, and fought instead of getting ready. Eri and Izumi almost came to blows over a pencil eraser, and Koji couldn’t find his homework right away and blamed the other kids. Even gentle Ayako raised her voice when Taichi wouldn’t get out of her way.

 Once they were all finally off to school, Kiryu rubbed his eyes. He hadn’t been sleeping well due to the heat, and a headache was coming on. He did the dishes as usual, then went to his room to change his shirt, since he spilled water on the one he was wearing. Yet another small annoyance. 

 Before he put the new shirt on, Kiryu tried to will his body to relax. He sat down in front of his bedroom fan for a minute and took a few deep breaths. Every summer was like this, he reminded himself. The kids were antsy in anticipation of the summer break, and it always took time to adjust to the sweltering heat and humidity. 

 He picked up a newspaper clipping off his table. It was a picture of the Kamurocho Hills grand opening from three weeks ago. The front of the tower was shown, with two officials standing next to Majima and a very proud looking Nishida. Majima wore a dark suit and tie, and underneath was the soft black and red shirt that Kiryu had once held against his naked body. Majima had made sure Kiryu knew that was an intentional choice, which made him happy every time he looked at the photo. One of these days he should find a picture frame for it. There was still work going on inside the tower, but the building itself was finished, and it was a huge achievement. 

 The article attached focused mostly on all the troubles the Hills had gone through, but it at least mentioned how many jobs had been given to homeless people and former yakuza who’d gone clean. Kiryu smiled to himself. Kashiwagi would be proud of that. 

 The pain behind Kiryu’s eyes burned. Stupid. Re-reading the article hadn’t helped his headache. He wondered if a swim in the ocean would be a good distraction, but maybe filling his ears with seawater would aggravate the pain. He’d been putting off housework, as this heatwave had been going on for more than a week, but he couldn’t ignore it any longer. 

 He stood up and got to work, and was annoyed to find he was out of energy drinks. He washed the kitchen floor, and just finished putting on a load of laundry when Majima called. 

“Hey.” Kiryu said, walking back to his room and away from the loud creaking of the old washing machine. 

“Hello, darlin’!” Majima yelled. Clearly he was with people. There was a lot of background noise. 

 Kiryu winced. “Where are you?”

“Pachinko parlour. Man, this place is depressing at this time of day. Buncha zombies sittin’ in here, and won’t leave even though it’s for their own damn good!” His voice grew even louder as he finished that sentence. Kiryu heard a man yelling in protest. Majima laughed, and must have walked away because the voice faded. “What are ya up to, Kazzy? A hard day of sittin’ on the beach?”

“I do have work to do around here, you know.” Kiryu said. The artificial noise grated on his nerves. There was a loud crash nearby. 

“I’m just yank in’ yer chain.” Majima said. “I got my bro and his boys at the back doors, headin’ for the offices. This place is Saejima Family territory now. Well, it will be soon once we finish knockin’ the fuck outta the guys in here.”

“What? You’re… are you raiding the place? Right now?”

 His answer was a piercing laugh and another crash. “Hell yeah we are. It’s just like old times. Hang on a sec.”

 There was more crashing, and the sounds of a fist fight, ending with the distinct cracking of a baseball bat. 

“Home run!” Majima yelled, “What did I say, ya damn zombies. Get the hell outta here!”

“Why would you call me now?” Kiryu asked, his jaw clenching tight. 

“I dunno, seemed funny. So, what are ya wearin’?” There was another loud sound. Not a crash, it was far too loud. A gunshot! Majima snickered. “Shit. Gotta go.”

“Dammit, Majima. Majima? Goro?” Kiryu yelled into the phone, but Majima had already hung up. Kiryu started pacing the room. He couldn’t call back. What if the sound drew out his enemies? He was in danger, and laughing about it. Sure, that was normal for Majima, but Kiryu couldn’t stand being too far away to help. 

“Dammit.” Kiryu said again. What if that was the last thing he ever said to him? He tried to reassure himself that Saejima was with him. That for all his wild behaviour, Majima wasn’t stupid, and probably wouldn’t raid a place without some kind of plan. Probably. Majima was also reckless and unpredictable. Kiryu’s hands balled into fists. All he could do was wait. 

 It took over an hour. A very long hour in which Kiryu’s headache only worsened. He couldn’t focus on much. He hung up the clean clothes outside, knowing that they’d take forever to dry in this humidity if he didn’t. What he really wanted to do was hit something. It was now after lunchtime, but he had no appetite. The whole situation made him feel sick. Finally, the phone rang.

“Majima?” 

“Hey, that got hectic.” Majima said, and had the nerve to laugh. 

“Are you okay?” Kiryu asked, gripping the phone tightly. 

“Yep. Kaz, you shoulda seen it, we-”

“You’re not hurt?” 

“Nah, I’m fine.” Majima said, far too casually, “Why? Were ya worried about me?”

 Kiryu’s anger flared. “Don’t EVER do that to me again.” he said, and hung up. 

 He walked right out of the house, leaving his phone behind. He was barefoot, and didn’t bother to stop for shoes. He just kept walking till he was in the ocean, nearly up to his knees. He took a deep, shaky breath to try to calm his nerves. His anger was strong, but so was his relief. 

 Majima was okay. 

 Kiryu knew this wasn’t something he could control. Majima was a lot of things, but he was a Yakuza. Kiryu should understand. He used to go on raids. He’d seen more gunfire than most people. Fights over territory were commonplace, and often necessary. 

 This was different. It turned out that being a yakuza was a lot different than being in love with a yakuza. He’d have to tell Majima that, but he wasn’t ready to talk yet. 

 The cool water soothed his legs and feet, even if he did wish he’d rolled up his pant legs before walking into the surf. Kiryu waded through the shallow water till his heart finally stopped pounding against his chest. He wasn’t sure what to say when he did talk to Majima. He sure as hell wasn’t going to apologize, but he also couldn’t ask him to change. He sighed heavily. What he wanted most was just to see him again. 

 The distance between them had never felt greater. It was mid-July, and it had been a long month apart. Kiryu told himself that August was only a few weeks away. By then the kids would be out of school and happily playing on the beach at this time of day, or better yet, helping him with the housework.

 Stepping back out onto the hot sand, Kiryu regretted his choice to forgo shoes. The walk back to the house was uncomfortable, but he was at least a little more calm. He sat on the front porch, wiped off his sandy feet and wrung out his pant legs before returning to the house to change into shorts. Only then did he pick up his phone and his smokes, and sat back outside.  

 His voicemail was full, and he had a new message from Majima. He sat down on the front step and lit a cigarette, then opened the message. 

 

ill make it up 2u

 

 The message was either hastily written or just too casual. Kiryu listened to the first voicemail. 

“Yo, Kiryu-chan. That probably sounded pretty bad, huh? But we’re all good over here, so don’t ya worry. Talk soon.”

 That did nothing to quell what Kiryu was feeling. He deleted the voicemail and clicked forward to the next one. 

“Hey. So, Saejima said I should apologize, so this is me sayin’ I’m sorry. I wasn’t thinkin’, and I wasn’t tryna make ya worry. Talk to ya soon.”

 Kiryu frowned. That was something at least. There was one more message. This one was much quieter, and his voice slightly echoed, like he might have been calling from a bathroom. 

“Kaz? Don’t be pissed, okay? Shit, I hate this. I know I fucked up, but I need to know we’re gonna be okay. I love you. I know I'm a dumbfuck, but I love you. I have to go deal with something right now, but even just… shit, I’m sorry.”

 Kiryu hesitated. Majima sounded worried. He listened to that last voicemail again. The anger he felt eased slightly. He called, but there was no answer. He didn’t feel like leaving a voicemail, so he hung up and typed out a message. 

We’ll talk soon.

 

 There. Hopefully Majima would see that. Kiryu took a deep breath. He still felt full of adrenaline, so despite the heat and his headache, he decided to work out. Kiryu had always taken pride in his physique, and now that he had someone he wanted to impress, he was working harder at it. 

 Even if the person he wanted to impress was a dangerous idiot sometimes. Kiryu shook his head as he started a set of squats while holding his weights. He was still angry, but he did love his dangerous idiot. 

 An hour later, Kiryu called again, but still didn’t get an answer. He wasn’t surprised, but he was disappointed. He wondered if he should call Nishida to make sure Majima was really okay, but decided against it. It hadn’t been long enough to start making those kind of calls, but it was hard to think about anything else.

 

 When the kids returned, Kiryu corralled them into the dining room to do their homework while it was too hot to play outside. There was some protest, but something in Kiryu’s tone made them settle down quickly. His anger had cooled, but now he just felt bad. He knew if he could just have one conversation, everything would be okay, but Majima still hadn’t answered his phone. After half an hour, he told the kids he’d be in the kitchen if they needed help, and went to start their dinner. Haruka soon followed. 

“Is everything okay, Uncle Kaz?” she asked. She washed her hands and began to help him without being asked.

“I’m fine. The heat gave me a headache today.”

 She nodded, but looked concerned. After a moment, she spoke again. “Did something happen?”

“No. Well, not really. Just an annoying phone call. Nothing you need to worry about.”

“Okay.” she said gently. She stayed beside him and they prepared dinner together. She told him about her day at school, and the funny things her teacher and classmates had said. She was always good at cheering him up, and even though it was uncomfortable to cook in this heat, she never complained. 

 Kiryu tried to keep his spirits high, for her sake as well as the kids. They were each called into the other room to help with the homework, and they took turns finishing dinner while the other helped. Kiryu’s headache was starting to ease, and he told himself that dinner would help with that. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d skipped lunch. He checked his phone again. Nothing. His stomach twisted. It had never taken Majima this long to respond. 

 Homework was done, and dinner was finally ready. They all sat down at the table, and were taking their first bites when there was a loud knock from the front of the house. 

 This had happened four days ago at almost the same time. Their neighbour had come over to give them some of the extra vegetables he’d grown. Maybe he was back with more. Kiryu left the dining room and pulled open the front door. 

“Goro?”

 Standing a few steps away from the enterance, was Majima. He wore his leather pants and snakeskin jacket, with a blue dress shirt underneath. His posture was stiff and his eye was wide. Kiryu stepped outside, shut the door behind him, then quickly advanced. 

“Kaz, I’m sorry.” Majima said. He raised his hands defensively a second before Kiryu clapped his arms around him and pulled him into a tight hug. Probably too tight, given the shaky breath that Majima exhaled. “I’m sorry.” he said again. 

“I know. It’s okay.” Kiryu said, his lips against the side of Majima’s neck. For the first time that day, it did feel okay. That thrum of electricity that he’d missed so much sparked back to life as they held each other. Kiryu pulled back with great reluctance, but they were in public, and they’d already embraced far too long for anyone watching to think they were just close friends. 

“There’s a cab waitin’ down the street. If I’m in the way here he can take me to a hotel.”

“You’re not staying at a hotel. I don’t want you out of my sight.” Kiryu said in a low voice. 

 Majima took another breath and nodded. “I’ll tell him to go.”

 Kiryu watched him walk to the gate and wave to the taxi which was stopped a few houses down. It drove away, and Majima returned with a relieved smile on his face. 

“We just started dinner.” Kiryu said. “Are you hungry?”

 Majima’s hesitation was enough to know that he was. Kiryu reached for the door, but looked back first. “I’m really glad you’re here.” 

“Kaz.” Majima whispered. It took effort not to kiss him. Instead, Kiryu squeezed his shoulder before he opened the door, and touched his back as he led him inside. Once Majima had taken off his shoes, he took a deep breath. They shared a warm look, then Kiryu gestured to the dining room. 

 Majima pasted a smile on his face and jumped into the room. “Surprise!”

 The kids screamed in delight. Majima was swarmed as they all laughed and hugged him. The noise was loud, and even with his slight headache, Kiryu didn’t care at all.

 Beyond where he stood, Haruka was smiling. She nodded at him, and he nodded back. They turned their attention back to Majima, who was talking about his jacket, which the kids all wanted to touch. He took it off so the they could see it better. The blue shirt he wore underneath didn’t look like it fit him very well, but maybe Kiryu was just unused to seeing him in that outfit with any shirt at all. He looked back out at the door. Majima hadn’t brought any luggage with him, or anything else. 

 While the kids were talking, Kiryu went to the kitchen and brought Majima out a plate. He placed it down at Kiryu’s side, and they all sat back down to finish their dinner. 

“Are you here for two weeks again, Uncle Majima?” Izumi asked. 

“No, small fry. I gotta head back tomorrow afternoon.” Majima replied as he rolled up his sleeves. “I had just enough time to pop in and crash for the night.”

“Did you know he was coming, Uncle Kaz?” Eri asked, almost as an accusation. 

“No. It was a surprise for me too.”

“It was a great surprise, Uncle Majima.” Taichi said, then laughed as if it had been a joke. 

 After dinner, Majima was begged to join the baseball game they wanted to play now that it was a few degrees cooler. 

“Okay, sure. I’ll smack a few outta the park for ya, I just need to have a talk with Uncle Kaz first. You guys set things up and I’ll be out in a few.”

 The kids walked down to the beach, with Ayako and Koji leading the way, and Haruka bringing up the rear. Kiryu waited till they were all gone, then touched Majima’s arm and motioned for him to join him in his room. When the door closed behind them, Majima’s back stiffened again. 

“I wasn’t thinking.” Majima said quietly. Kiryu nodded and took his head in both his hands. 

“It’s okay.” Kiryu said. He leaned in and kissed Majima’s face: his forehead, each cheek, and finally his mouth. Majima stayed still, then stepped closer when their lips finally touched. The kiss was fairly chaste by Majima’s standards, but it felt just as passionate as any other. Kiryu pressed their foreheads together and ran his hand through Majima’s hair. “You scared the hell out of me. I couldn’t help you.”

“Aw, Kaz, I didn’t expect that at all when I called. I’m…” he paused, “I’m not used to people giving a shit about me. Not like this. It felt like a punch to the gut when I heard how pissed you were.” 

 Majima pulled back, looking guilty now. Kiryu kept his hands on his arms while he continued, “I had to tell Saejima about us. We finished up our, uh, business, and he knew somethin’ was wrong and I don’t know, I had to tell him.” Majima cracked a smile. “He said he’d already figured that out, called me an idiot, then talked some sense into me. Then, when I started sayin’ how much I needed to see ya, he told me to get my ass in gear and get goin’. I hopped the soonest flight I could and thank fuck it left when it did. I couldn’t’ve waited any longer.”

“I’m glad you’re here, and I don’t mind that you told Saejima.” Kiryu said. He could see the relief on Majima’s face. “But you know we would’ve been okay if you hadn’t come, right? You really pissed me off today, but we would’ve worked it out if we’d just talked about it.”

 Majima shrugged. “Yeah, maybe, but I couldn’t handle the thought of losin’ you because I fucked up.”

“Then you know how I felt in the hour between when I heard gunfire and when you finally called me back.” Kiryu said sternly. Majima grit his teeth, his expression falling back into guilt and nerves. Kiryu touched his neck and continued, “A few words aren’t going to break us up, Goro, just don’t call me in the middle of a raid again. For both our sakes.”

“Got it. Loud and clear.” Majima said.

 Kiryu kissed him again. “Good.”

“Do ya have a tee shirt I could borrow? I’ll sweat right through this cheap polyester if I try to play baseball in this heat.”

 Kiryu pointed towards his open closet door. “You left some clothes here, remember?”

“Nah, I don't want to wear my crap, I want to wear one of your shirts. I’m sick of wearin’ Nishida’s.”

 Kiryu had to laugh. “Why are you wearing Nishida’s shirt?”

 Majima was already unbuttoning it. “Cause I got turned away at the airport once for not wearin’ one. I wasn’t gonna take that chance, and Saejima wouldn’t give me his.” He smiled at Kiryu. A smile so genuinely disarming that Kiryu almost blushed. “What? I’ll give it back. He’s got my tanto as collateral, and that baby’s priceless-”

“I love you.” Kiryu blurted out. Majima leapt forward and kissed him again. A joyful kiss rather than one tinged with guilt and worry.

“I love you too, darlin’. Now get me a shirt so we can go play with the little ones.”

 Kiryu found him a white tee shirt. It was loose on Majima, but he looked happy. Kiryu couldn’t help but think of poor Nishida, driving back from the airport without his shirt. He told that to Majima, who let out a particularly evil laugh. 

 The baseball game was informal, as the kids all wanted to play against Majima. He made the effort to ensure they all had a turn. Kiryu couldn’t keep his eyes off him. The white tee shirt billowed as he moved, contrasting with the tight fit of his leather pants and gloves he wore. Kiryu was just so happy to see him. They’d had a problem, and Majima immediately came to fix it. It meant a lot. He and Majima played along with the children right until their bedtime. 

 This was the way it should be, Kiryu thought. Majima belonged here with him. With all of them. They put the kids to bed together, laughing with them about silly jokes and nonsense. Kiryu hauled out the extra futon, even though he knew it wouldn't be used. As he set their room up and made sure the fan was in the right spot, he could hear Majima saying goodnight to Haruka. 

“Thanks, Uncle Majima. I don’t know what happened today, but everything feels better now.”

“Good to hear it, kiddo. Is he teachin’ ya how to fight yet?”

“Sort of. We’ve gone over how to make a fist, and which part of the foot to kick with, but he keeps putting it off.”

 Kiryu frowned. He wasn’t putting it off. Not exactly. There just hadn’t been a good time, and the weather had been bad, and… heh, maybe she had a point. 

“Want me to talk to him?” Majima offered. 

“Maybe, but not tonight. He just started smiling again.” Haruka said. Kiryu heard Majima clear his throat. “Oh, and I put a brand new toothbrush out on the sink for you. We had an extra.”

“So you’re sayin’ I can’t use yours?”

Haruka laughed. “That’s gross! I’m going to bed.”

 Majima snickered as she walked away. Kiryu could hear him humming to himself as he headed towards the bathroom. 

 When he returned to Kiryu’s room, Majima seemed hesitant again. Kiryu had loaned him the pyjama bottoms Majima gave him for his birthday. They were also pretty loose, and both the pants and the tee shirt made his thin frame look even thinner.

 As soon as they were alone Kiryu pulled him back into his arms. Majima’s hands were firm against his back, and Kiryu could feel the tension drain away as he ran his hand against the back of Majima’s skull.

“You got a haircut.” Kiryu said as his hand rubbed against the velcro-like texture of the closely buzzed hair.

“I was thinkin’ of growing it out, but a few days ago it started drivin’ me crazy and I had to get it chopped.”

“It feels good.” Kiryu said, enjoying the texture under his fingers. Majima sighed and rested his head on the top of Kiryu’s shoulder for a long moment. “Let’s lie down.” Kiryu murmured in his ear.

 Majima took his tee shirt off. Kiryu hadn’t been paying attention earlier, and only now noticed a large pink welt on the left side of his abdomen, and another on his left arm. Under his gloves, his knuckles looked red and sore. “It’s nothing.” Majima said when he caught Kiryu looking. 

 Kiryu touched his hip and took a closer look. “This had to have hurt when I hugged you.”

“Ya say that like I give a damn. Don’t ever stop holdin’ me, Kaz. I don’t care if I’m beat to a pulp, I’ll never say no to bein’ close to you.”

 Kiryu was careful to avoid his injuries, and pulled him into a long, lingering kiss. Majima’s lips were even softer than he remembered. “I get that, but I don’t want to hurt you.”

“Is it wrong that I’m a little disappointed by that?” Majima asked, then stifled a laugh when Kiryu glared at him. “Want me to get the light?” he asked. He removed his eyepatch and rubbed his bad eye.  

 Kiryu touched his arm. “Yeah. You must be exhausted.”

 Majima nodded. “I can’t say it was an easy day, and those kids and the heat tired me out.”

 He hit the light and they laid down together. Majima settled on his right side to avoid his injury, but still slung his arm and leg overtop of Kiryu. They let out a sigh almost at the same time, which made them both chuckle. 

“You said you’d be here till tomorrow afternoon?” Kiryu asked. 

“Yeah, the next flight back wasn’t till later in the day. I’d stay longer, but I gotta be back for… somethin’ important. Remind me, I gotta order a cab for about four o’clock tomorrow.”

 Kiryu ran his hand over Majima’s arm. “So we’ll have some time tomorrow morning?”

“If ya don’t mind entertainin’ yer uninvited guest.” Majima said in a low voice, trailing his fingers around Kiryu’s pecs. 

“I can think of a few ways of keeping you entertained.”

 Majima sighed warm breath against his chest, then rubbed his leg over Kiryu’s. “I know you can, Kaz. I missed that. Missed this too.”

“Me too.”

“I thought ya might turn me away, or at least punch me in the face.”

“I was a lot more concerned about keeping you from getting hurt today.”

“Hmm. Then there’s a lot goin’ on in the next two weeks that you aren’t gonna like hearing about.” Majima said seriously. “There’s still some loose ends with those Shibata family bastards, and we gotta come down on ‘em hard. It ain’t gonna be pretty.”

“I might not be a part of that life anymore,” Kiryu said, “but I do understand what you do. That’s why this morning was so hard. I know the dangers, and I couldn’t stop thinking of you getting shot.”

 Majima kissed his chest. “Should I keep my mouth shut about it? I could do that.”

“No, it’s not that I can’t handle it, and I know you can take care of yourself. Just talk to me before or after you do something dangerous. Not right in the middle.”

“Deal.”

 Kiryu took his hand and pressed it to his lips, staying away from his hurt knuckles. “Did you say Saejima figured out we were together on his own?”

 Majima chuckled. “Yep. There I was, thinkin’ I was bein’ so careful. Turns out it was because I was bein’ careful.”

“What?”

“He said that as soon as I got back, I stopped talkin’ about ya, and I guess I was doin’ a lot of that before I left. That’s how he knew somethin’ changed.” He snorted, “That and he said I looked ‘less dead inside’, but mostly the first part.”

“And he was okay with it?” Kiryu asked. 

“Yep. He said he was happy for us, and to keep any, how’d he put it, intimate details to myself.”

“I also want you to keep that kind of thing between us.” Kiryu said. 

“Don’t worry. You’re too important to me. I won’t go yellin’ out all our dirty little secrets, even if I wanted to. I did have to tell him how great you are all over again, and he was real good about it. He respects the hell out of you.” Majima let out a breath. “It’s crazy how he hasn’t changed at all. Sometimes we get to talkin’ and it feels just like we’re eighteen year old punks again.”

“I’m glad. For both of you.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima sighed, “Felt like I was missin’ part of myself when I lost my bro, and I ain’t talkin’ about the eye. Then with you, as soon as we got together, it felt like I got this whole new part of me I didn’t even know I was missing.”

He paused, and Kiryu kissed his fingers again. “It’s different, but… I was startin’ to lose hope of ever seein’ him again, and I never would’ve thought things would ever be like this with you.” Another pause. “It’s weird gettin’ to talk to both of ya on the same day.” he added, then laughed under his breath. “Ya got me all sappy now, Kaz, but is any of this makin’ sense?”

“Why do you think I keep telling you we’re supposed to be together? I know what you mean.” Kiryu said. He wished he were better at articulating his feelings, and maybe someday he would be, but for now, he was happy to lie comfortably with Majima at his side. The talked about sports, and restaurants they wanted to go to in August, and other insignificant things long into the night, till at last they fell asleep in each others arms.

Chapter 56: Today and Forever

 Like every day for the past week, Kiryu woke up to heat and humidity. Today, however, it also felt like he was in the middle of a hot stone massage. He blinked, and looked down to see Majima’s chin, elbow, and knee all digging into different parts of his skin. 

 Kiryu had never felt so happy to be uncomfortable. He moved Majima’s arm off his stomach, careful to avoid the bruises near the elbow that had bloomed overnight. He then shifted slightly, so Majima’s leg moved away from his thigh. He wasn’t sure how to best approach Majima’s face, which was pressing into his chest, but he could never resist running his hand through that silky hair. He did so, and heard a sigh. 

“Kiryu-chan.” Majima murmured, still half-asleep. Kiryu guided his head slightly to the side, so his cheek instead of his chin was against him. Comfortable once more, Kiryu relaxed and massaged Majima’s scalp till the alarm went off. 

 It felt like Majima had never left. They all sat down for breakfast together with smiles on their faces, even though the weather hadn’t cooled down at all. The kids made sure the fans were on, and were happy to hear that they’d be able to say goodbye to Majima after they came home from school. 

 After the kids were all off to school, Majima pulled at his yellow short-sleeved shirt, one he’d left behind on his last visit. “Damn it’s hot.” he said. He undid the buttons, then he slapped his leather covered thigh. “Shoulda gone for shorts. Ya might have to peel me outta these.”

 He walked towards the kitchen. Kiryu took his arm before he could get there. “You’re here for less than a day. You don’t have to clean up.”

 Majima pulled his arm away and continued into the kitchen. “And what d’ya think the kids’d say if they caught ya slackin’ with the dishes? I can’t face those sad little faces, Kiryu-chan. I can’t!”

 Kiryu shook his head. His headache was gone, and Majima was in good spirits. Even with the oppressive heat, he couldn’t feel anything but happy. Majima waited by the sink with a towel in his hands. He pointed to where Kiryu usually stood, but Kiryu didn’t move from the kitchen doorway. 

“If you’re dead-set on doing the dishes, why are are you drying instead of washing?” Kiryu asked, pointing to the towel.

“Hell no. That’s your job, Kazzy. Do I have to come grab ya?”

 He considered for a moment, and Majima took the opportunity to stalk towards him. He reached out with his gloved hands, and slowly undid Kiryu’s shirt. Kiryu watched him, and when the last button was undone, Majima ran his hands down his chest. He hooked his fingers in his belt loops and pulled Kiryu forward till they were back in front of the sink. The look on Majima’s face was intense, and sent heatwaves through Kiryu’s body. He leaned his face in, still holding Kiryu by the belt loops. 

“Do the damn dishes, Kazuma-chan.”

 Damn I’m lucky, Kiryu thought. Whether he agreed or not, he would win. Majima liked to provoke him, but how confrontational did he really want to get in this heat? And how good would it feel to put aside his stubbornness and just do what he was told today? Majima had come a long way just to see him. That deserved something. Majima stared him down, and his foot started to tap impatiently.

“Kiss me first.” Kiryu said, “then I’ll do anything you want.”

 Majima yanked Kiryu forward by the belt loops again and roughly kissed him. He allowed Kiryu to back him up against the sink, but there were too many dirty dishes on the top of the counter to do what he wanted. 

“Okay, come on, Kaz. Let’s get this shit done.” Majima said. Kiryu kissed his neck, lingering there. He licked along Majima’s throat, feeling his strong heartbeat under his tongue. It was something he’d wanted to do since the moment Majima arrived, but hadn’t dared try till they were alone in the house. Majima didn’t stop him, despite his odd insistence on getting the dishes done. 

“Okay.” Kiryu said, releasing Majima and taking his spot at the sink. “I guess I can wait a few minutes.”

 Majima grinned and removed his gloves, then they efficiently got through the dishes. “I love when you get impatient, Kaz.” Majima said, drying one of the last bowls. “You said you’d do what I wanted, but I get the feeling you’ve got an idea or two.”

“Well… I um, did get yelled at for taking too long in the bathroom this morning.”

 Majima looked sharply at him, then let out a shrill laugh. “Aw Kazzy, I missed ya so bad.”

 They finished the dishes without another word, then Majima pulled Kiryu back to their room. 

“I wish it weren’t so hot.” Kiryu said. 

“You would’ve gotten me this hot even in the dead of winter, Kaz. Besides, I’ve fucked in a sauna before. This ain’t that far off.” Majima replied, then stepped forward when Kiryu frowned. “Don’t get jealous, Kiryu-chan. That was years ago, and it wasn’t even all that good.”

 Kiryu pulled Majima’s shirt off. “Heh, I don’t even have to talk, do I? You just know what I’m thinking.” 

“If I did, then yesterday wouldn’t’ve gone down like that.” Majima said, pushing Kiryu’s undone shirt off and tossing it to the floor next to his own. 

“At least it brought you back to me.” Kiryu said. “We don’t have to talk any more about it.” he added, when he saw a flash of guilt pass over Majima’s face.  

“Kaz.” Majima said and let out a long breath. “Get me out of these pants.”

“I’m glad you wore these.” Kiryu said, his hand feeling along the back of the leather. “Now I get to know how it feels to take them off of you.”

 Majima playfully shoved him. “Should I get my snakeskin? Give ya the full effect?”

“Not now, it’s too hot. But someday.”

 Majima chuckled as Kiryu unzipped the fly. Underneath the leather was the one pair of underwear he’d left behind from his last visit, a pair of neon green briefs. Although his pants weren’t skin tight, it still took time to get them off, and Majima chuckled as Kiryu knelt down and fought with his legs. 

“That’s better.” Majima said as Kiryu added them to the pile of clothes. He then put his hands on Majima’s hips and kissed his already prominent erection through his underwear. 

 The low moan he received in return was gratifying. He didn’t want to rush this, but he didn’t want anything between them. He pulled Majima’s underwear down, and looked up to see Majima watching him intently. He stuck out his tongue and licked a long line from the base up the underside of his cock. Majima’s mouth fell open. Kiryu grasped the shaft and guided it inside his mouth. 

“Fuck, Kaz. A month apart is about all I can take. I’ve been bouncing off the walls thinkin’ about this. Hating that my Kiryu-chan was so far away.” He made a sound somewhere between a laugh and a moan. “You give great head, gorgeous. So goddamn great.”

 It was almost funny, the way Majima had instantly started babbling, his hands winding into Kiryu’s hair. 

 Majima let him continue for a few minutes, then pulled away. “I can’t let ya do that for long. Not when there’s so much I wanna do to you.” He knelt down so they were eye to eye, and kissed him hard before Kiryu could even wipe the saliva off his mouth. Majima undid his pants and pulled them down to his knees, then pushed Kiryu till he landed on the futon. His head hit the pillow as Majima pulled the rest of his clothes off till they were both naked. Majima looked him over like he was taking stock of every part of him. He grabbed Kiryu’s leg.

“I can try my best to memorize you, but nothing’s better than the real thing.”

 Kiryu nodded as Majima’s hand travelled up his thigh, his fingers lightly trailing along his balls and along his cock. 

“You look incredible, Kaz.” Majima growled, then kissed his chest. His hand slowly pumped his cock as his tongue swirled around his nipple. “I want you so much.”

“Then take me.” Kiryu said, caught up in the emotion of it all. “I need you.”

“Turn around. Hands and knees.” Majima ordered, sending a thrill through Kiryu’s entire body. Majima let him go, and switched on the fan as Kiryu turned around. “Grab the pillow, darlin’.”

 Kiryu did as he was told, as Majima’s strong hands guided his shoulders down and his ass up, whispering praises to him as he moved. Then his hands were on his ass, squeezing the muscles slowly and firmly. “Perfect.” he whispered again as his thumb lightly moved in around his hole. “Have ya been touchin’ yourself, Kaz?”

“Yes.”

“Good.” Majima said. Kiryu gasped when he felt Majima’s breath so close to his hole. He held his pillow tighter as Majima’s tongue swirled. 

“I’ve… thought about this too.” Kiryu managed. Majima hummed his approval as he kissed his skin. He paused for a moment, and Kiryu had just enough brainpower to point to the lube bottle he’d set out just before they did the dishes. 

“Oh, you are so ready to get fucked, aren’t you, Kazuma.” Majima said, his voice deep. There was no teasing in his tone, just approval. “All ready for me, lube within reach, towel over the futon.”

“Yes.” Kiryu hissed, as the cool lube was squeezed over him. In the heat, it felt soothing. Majima blew cold air overtop of it. His fingers massaged him as his other hand cradled his balls. Majima wasn’t rushing, but one of his fingers easily slipped inside, then another. And another. Kiryu moaned as Majima’s skilled fingers curled, massaging his prostate.

“Good, Kaz. I can feel how impatient you are.”

 Kiryu turned his head to the side to see Majima looking down at him, his expression encouraging, loving. 

“Come on, Goro.” Kiryu said. “Give it to me.”

 Majima’s mouth curled into a devious smile. He ran his hand down Kiryu’s back as he positioned himself, then began to enter him, pushing forward, inch by inch, that dangerous smile only growing wilder. His expression, combined with the bruises on his arm and torso, and the sweat that glistened over his skin, made him look like a warrior, fresh from battle. It felt familiar in a way Kiryu couldn’t place, like a dream he’d forgotten. Whatever it was, it turned him on and intensified what he already knew, that they were made for each other. Majima grabbed at his ass as he pulled back and drove into him, slow and steady, again and again, until they were both panting like wild animals. 

“Turn over, gorgeous. I need a better look at your face.” Majima said as he withdrew. He helped Kiryu turn, and took one of their pillows and placed it under the towel underneath his hips. He kissed the side of Kiryu’s leg as he settled into a comfortable position, then Majima took the bottle of lube and poured it over Kiryu like he was a chef drizzling oil in a pan. Kiryu was too aroused to care how ridiculous he was being. Majima tossed the bottle aside and grabbed him, hoisting his hips up so he could guide himself back inside. Kiryu moaned as Majima adjusted his angle, then thrust into just the right spot inside, sending fireworks through his system. Kiryu slapped the futon and threw his head back. Majima moaned in response. 

“Kaz.” Majima said, his voice straining with effort as he sped up. Kiryu grabbed himself, and Majima hummed his approval as he pulled at his own cock. “You’re so fucking gorgeous when you’re gettin’ off. Look at you, you’re dripping for fuck’s sake.”

 Kiryu might have felt embarrassed, but in his current state, Majima’s voice only fuelled his desire. He felt like he should say something, but his mind could hardly form thoughts. “I love… ah, I love when you fuck me.”

 Majima’s tight hold on his hip faltered slightly as he moaned again, his thrusts becoming erratic. He could feel Majima somehow grow even harder inside of him. Kiryu’s legs flexed. He couldn’t help the way his body writhed, or any of the sounds coming out of his mouth. Majima held him steady, never letting him go as the intensity built, higher and higher. 

“Tell me you’re close, Kaz, ‘cause I’m barely hangin’ on.” Majima grunted. 

“So close.” 

“Let me, gorgeous. Let me getcha there.”

 Majima still gripped his ass with one hand. With his other, he pushed Kiryu’s arm away and started jerking him off at a frantic pace, all the while thrusting inside him. Kiryu was helpless to do anything but experience the intense pleasure. It was everything he’d been craving. The sounds of their bodies slapping together meshed with the barely contained noises they both made, faster, faster, till the dam finally burst. Kiryu shut his eyes tight and gasped as he was hit with the strongest orgasm he’d had since the day Majima left. 

 There was a noise not unlike a whine that Kiryu realized he, himself made as Majima finished wringing every last drop out of him. 

“Good, Kaz. Just a little more.” Majima whispered, as he let Kiryu’s cock go and grabbed his side. His slick hand slipped before Majima gripped his hip tightly and took his own pleasure. The overstimulation was almost too much for Kiryu, but he could bare it. For this man, Kiryu could bare anything. He watched Majima, looking wild, animalistic even, as he rammed himself inside, his single eye raking over Kiryu’s body, his hair dripping with sweat. He was so beautiful. Majima grit his teeth and made a strangled sound as he thrust through his own orgasm, and finally, carefully, let Kiryu go and fell backwards onto the bottom edge of the futon. 

 The room fell quiet except for their breathing. Kiryu’s heart was beating so hard that he wouldn’t have been surprised if Majima could hear it. 

“Give me a sec, then I’ll get us some water.” Majima said. 

“I could-”

 Majima shushed him. “You’re not moving. Don’t move a muscle.” 

 When Kiryu started to move anyway, Majima leapt up and pushed him back down. 

“Relax, baby. I’ll be right back.”

“Baby? That’s a new one.”

 Majima cleaned himself up with the towel, then grabbed Kiryu’s underwear and put them on. They were black boxer-briefs, a size too big, but they looked good on him. 

“Ya don’t like ‘baby’? I can think of somethin’ else after I cool down.”

“No, it’s fine. Heh, I think the last person to call me baby was one of those girls in Purgatory trying to call me over.”

 Majima smiled. “Okay. I’ll save baby for special occasions.”

 He left the room before Kiryu could ask what that meant. He returned with a cold, wet cloth from the kitchen, and two glasses of ice water. “Drink.” he ordered as he sat down. 

 Kiryu gratefully took the water and downed most of it, wincing when the sharp cold caused him pain. Majima wiped his forehead with the cloth and chuckled. 

“Brain freeze? Same thing just happened to me in the kitchen.”

 Majima continued down his body with the cloth, cooling his skin. Kiryu looked up at Majima appreciatively, then did a double-take. Majima’s hair was slicked back and soaking wet. “You dunked your head in the sink, didn’t you?”

“I had to, Kiryu-chan. The ocean was too far away.” he replied, with no remorse on his face whatsoever. 

 Kiryu laughed. “I can’t be mad at you. Not after what you just did to me.”

 Majima, having finished cleaning Kiryu, leaned down and kissed him. “I wasn’t too rough with ya?”

“No. You’ve been a lot rougher with me when we fought.”

“That’s different. You never let me get that close to your ass when we fight.”

 Kiryu kissed him again, if only to wipe that smirk off his face. Majima chuckled against his lips. “Are ya okay to stand? I could use a shower. This heat’s makin’ me squirrelly.”

“I’m fine.” Kiryu said. He did feel sore, but he wasn’t upset about it. “I’ve missed showering with you.”

 They gathered their clothes and some new towels, and soon they were under the cool, refreshing spray of the shower. 

“That’s better.” Majima said as the water hit his chest. He closed his eye and leaned. back to wet his hair again. Kiryu couldn’t resist kissing his neck. “I’m never gettin’ outta here.” he continued as he held onto Kiryu’s back. 

“Fine by me.” Kiryu said, continuing to kiss and lick overtop of his shoulder. “How are your bruises?”

“They only hurt if I poke at ‘em. You should see the other guys. Or maybe you shouldn’t.” 

 He pulled back and squinted at Kiryu, who smiled. “Stop looking at me like you think I’ll get mad. I know your job description. And if you want to tell me about it, that’s fine.” He touched Majima’s side, below the large bruise on his left. “So long as you know that if I’d been there, no one would have gotten close enough to touch you.”

 Majima gave him a heated look, then grabbed him into another kiss. “Fuck, Kaz. You’re gettin’ me goin’ again, and I just came so hard I saw stars.” 

“You gave me exactly what I needed.” Kiryu said in his ear. Despite his exhaustion, his cock stirred. 

“You’re comin’ to see me in what, three weeks? A little less than that? Then we can fuck in an air conditioned room.”

“That’ll be fun.” Kiryu said, and lightly bit Majima’s earlobe. They’d talked a lot over the phone about this upcoming August visit. Mostly wild dreams and sex-filled fantasies rather than actual plans, but those were more fun to talk about late at night. 

 Majima grabbed the shampoo and worked some of it into Kiryu’s scalp. “Fightin’ is fun but… I love takin’ care of ya, Kaz. It makes me happy.”

 Kiryu, with closed eyes, reached out with both hands to hold Majima around the waist. “You make me so happy.” he said. Majima touched his chin and guided his head up so he could rinse his hair. “Nobody’s ever looked after me the way you do.”

“Yeah. Yeah, likewise.” Majima said and cleared his throat. Kiryu wiped his forehead and turned them around so he could return the favour. Majima stared at him as Kiryu washed his hair. “It’s still crazy to think about, being here with ya. Someday it’ll sink in, but it still feels like winning the lottery.”

“Heh, sap.” Kiryu said warmly, and kissed Majima’s cheek before he could push him away. Majima slapped his ass instead. Kiryu nudged his head back so he could rinse his hair. “I’m so glad you’re here.”

 Majima sighed, and took the soap and washcloth. They washed each other slowly, with great care. The soapy water slid between their bodies, and it wasn’t long before their hands were moving over each other in a way that had nothing to do with getting clean. Majima’s tongue caressed his own in a demanding kiss as their hands slipped down each other’s abdomen. Kiryu moaned as Majima took hold of his cock, hard again and aching for more. He pulled Kiryu’s hand, and moved him so their shafts were pointing up and pressed together, both of their hands curled around them and moved at the same time. Their foreheads touched as Majima exhaled hot breath over Kiryu’s cool, wet skin. 

“I love this.” Kiryu whispered. “I love you.”

“Love you so fucking much.” Majima growled, rutting into their hands. The soapy water made everything slippery, and their hands moved together faster than Kiryu intended, and even though it usually took him longer the second time around, he found himself craving the speed just as much as Majima. 

 With his free hand, Kiryu held onto the back of Majima’s neck, pressing their heads together. Majima kept making soft, breathy moans so deliciously filthy that Kiryu couldn’t help bucking his hips, finding a fast rhythm as Majima pressed his back against the shower wall. 

 Their lips met in yet another hungry kiss. Majima moaned against his tongue, desperate and sexy, and sucked Kiryu’s bottom lip into his mouth. 

“Yeah, Goro. I’ve got you.” Kiryu said between deep breaths, guiding his trembling partner through his climax. Majima’s eye was shut tight as he shuddered, spurting over their joined hands. “I’ve got you.” Kiryu murmured. 

 Majima kissed him hard. He kept his hand around Kiryu’s still-hard cock, and with whispered encouragement, brought him to his own release.

They clung to each other as they caught their breath, moving under the shower spray to rinse their bodies and finish washing each other. 

“I don’t wanna get out of here and back into the heat, Kaz.” Majima said when Kiryu reached for the faucet. 

“Yeah, I know. The heatwave is supposed to break in a couple of days, but it’s been rough.”

 Majima turned off the water, and they stepped out to towel dry. “Damn, I needed that.” he said with a loud sigh. 

Kiryu wiped Majima’s shoulder dry, then kissed it. “Me too. It means a lot that you came.”

 Majima raised an eyebrow, and Kiryu scowled. “You know what I mean.” Kiryu said. 

“I know, Kazzy. I’m real glad I came too.”

 Kiryu hit him with his towel, and Majima cackled. He was here for another couple of hours, so Majima put on the shorts he’d left behind till then. Once they were both dressed, they sat outside and smoked. Majima was still hesitant to talk about exactly what he was up to the day before, but he was happy to talk about the consequences of their raid. 

“Saejima never cared about gettin’ rich, but now that we’re securing this territory, he’ll finally get to enjoy the perks of his position. He didn’t get any of that back in the day, and it’s been tough gettin’ him outta the mindset of bare bones livin’.” It’s like pullin’ teeth tryna get him to pick out furniture.”

“I can understand that.” Kiryu said. “You don’t get any choices in prison. They control what you wear, what you eat, and everything you do. Making your own choices again is overwhelming.”

“Hmm.” Majima said. “That’s smart, Kiryu-chan. When I was twenty-four and got free of Sotenbori, I bought all kinds of crap I didn’t need. I didn’t even have a couch in my apartment yet and I went and bought one of those big-ass jukeboxes.” He paused to smoke. “But Saejima isn’t me, and maybe pushin’ all this shit on him isn’t helping.”

“Maybe.”

 Majima looked thoughtful. “Ya know he’s still wearing that big jacket you got him. Do you want it back? ‘Cause I could get it back.”

“No. He can keep it. The clothes I gave him were too warm for Okinawa anyway.”

“Lemme know if ya change your mind. I’ve got a key to his apartment, so if it comes to it, I could grab it while he’s asleep.”

“Oh, that reminds me.” Kiryu said. He went inside, and opened the drawer of his desk. He returned and handed Majima a key. “I was going to bring this over in August, but you may as well have it now. It works for the front and back door here.”

 Majima stared down at the key, turning it over in his hand. “Ya sure? I was just talkin’ about stealing from my own brother.”

“Heh, yeah, I’m sure.”

 Majima scratched the back of his neck with his other hand. “I’ll guard it with my life.”

“I know.”

 Majima quickly extinguished his cigarette and motioned for Kiryu to join him back inside. Kiryu braced himself as they moved out of the view of any prying eyes, and as he suspected, Majima launched himself at him. The kiss was loving, passionate, and made him glad that he hadn’t waited till August. “This means a lot, Kaz. A hell of a lot.”

“You mean everything to me.” Kiryu said. Majima tried to wriggle out of his grasp, but Kiryu held him too tightly. “Take the compliment.” he ordered. 

“Fine.” Majima said, looking amused. “We should open up all the windows. Get some more air in here.”

“Yeah.”

They set to work, talking about territory and the complicated feelings surrounding a long prison stay. Majima listened, and made fewer jokes than usual. When they returned to the kitchen for lunch, Majima looked deep in thought. 

“Would ya to talk to my bro if i asked nice? In August, I mean? Nothin’ I’m saying about keeping him outta prison is sinking in, but maybe you could get him to see how stupid he’s being.”

 Kiryu frowned. “I can try.”

 Majima watched him for a long moment. “You think he’s right, don't you?”

“Well-”

“I should’ve known you’d take his side, you noble bastard.”

 Kiryu touched his arm. “It’s not about sides. I just understand his stance on this. If it were me, I’d do my time, and breathe easier afterwards knowing I wouldn’t have to always be looking over my shoulder because every cop in the city knew I was only free because someone was paid-off.”

“Yeah? You say he’s got too many choices out here, so he’s gonna what, take the weak way out go live caged up again? They want him in for three whole years, and that’s only if he’s on his best behaviour.”

 Kiryu frowned. “I don’t think that’s weak.”

“It is, he just doesn’t see it.” Majima insisted. “And ya think once he’s back in a cell, there won’t be anybody tryna keep him in there? The cops still wanna keep that secret penitentiary outta the papers, which is the only reason this whole thing’s taking so long, and even if he ends up in the local joint, there are a lot of families here that would love to take him down.” Majima’s voice grew loud. “And I can’t help him out if he’s behind bars, Kiryu-chan, and I owe him too fuckin’ much not to help him.”

 Kiryu pulled him into a hug. Majima’s body was stiff but he didn’t try to push him away. “I’ll talk to him.” he said. Kiryu still understood Saejima’s logic, but he could at least try to ensure he knew where Majima was coming from. He pulled Majima back and held his shoulders. “You and I are on the same side, and I’ll help you if I can.”

 Majima shrugged and looked away. “Thanks, Kaz. Didn’t mean to let this shit get heavy.”

 They ate lunch in silence, but it wasn’t uncomfortable. “Do you want a whiskey?” Kiryu asked as they brought their bowls back to the kitchen. 

“A mid-day drink? Are ya allowed, Uncle Kaz?” Majima teased  

“When I have guests, or a hard day.” Kiryu replied, then leaned in and kissed Majima’s neck, “or a really good day.”

 Majima had found one of the kid’s paper fans. It was covered in glue and glitter, and a wave of sparkles wafted through the air every time Majima used it. He fanned himself in response to that neck kiss and laughed. 

 Kiryu opened the freezer and took out two large ice cubes for their glasses. “The kids love these. They say it makes every drink fancy.”

“I missed every single one of ‘em. I’d come back every week if it wouldn’t eat so much into my retirement fund.”

“Retirement fund?”

“I told ya, I got big plans, Kaz.”

 Kiryu poured them each a glass from his half-empty bottle of Laphroaig 10, then they sat back down in the dining room, shoulder to shoulder, in front of the biggest fan in the house. They knocked glasses together, and after Majima picked out the glitter that had drifted into his glass from the paper fan, they drank. 

 After that, Majima ordered his taxi. They cleaned the dishes at Majima’s insistence again, and Majima told him some non-violent stories from the past month. 

 
 Later, Majima reluctantly changed back into his leather pants, eyepatch, and gloves. He’d convinced Kiryu to lend him another white tee shirt to wear for the way back, and after he pulled that on, he attached the Morning Glory key to his own key ring. Kiryu also found a bag where he could put his snakeskin jacket and Nishida’s shirt. He set it by the door, and they had a smoke while they waited for the kids. 

“This is the last time I come here empty handed. It’s damn rude of me. I shoulda stopped at the airport for some goodies for you and the kids, but I needed to get here as soon as I could.”

“The fact that you came all this way is a great gift.”

 Majima rolled his eyes, but still looked happy. “It was important. I woulda been a goner if I waited till August. Death by Kiryu-chan withdrawal.”

 It was Kiryu’s turn to roll his eyes. Majima laughed as Kiryu nudged his shoulder. “I love you.” Kiryu said in a low tone. “I can’t wait to spend some uninterrupted time with you.”

“I mean it about a month apart bein’ as much as I can take.” Majima said, taking a look around before feeling over his bicep with his soft glove. “I’ll make sure we see each other at least that much.”

“Won’t that eat into your retirement fund?” Kiryu asked. 

“Yeah, but bein’ here is the best motivation to make the big bucks.”

 Kiryu looked Majima in the eye. He’d mentioned his recent money-making plans before, usually in vague terms, telling Kiryu not to worry about it when he asked too many questions. “I’m not going to stop you from taking risks,” Kiryu said, “but money is worthless if you get killed over it.”

 Majima gave him one of his shining smiles. “I got it all under control, darlin’. I’ve had to change my whole way of thinkin’ ‘cause of this.” Cigarette in hand, he gestured to everything around them. “I told ya before, I’m still gettin’ used to havin’ people give a damn about me.”

Kiryu nodded, but didn’t speak as Majima looked like he had more to say.

“I know yesterday ain’t the best example, but I am bein’ more careful.” Majima said, using that gentle, serious tone that still sounded strange to Kiryu. “I don’t want to let you or the kids down. Or Saejima. Or even Daigo-chan. The guy’s grown on me since ya put him in charge, even after all the shit that went down a few months back.”

“I’m glad to hear it.” Kiryu said and extinguished his cigarette. “All of it.”

“I told ya, I’m in this for the long haul, Kaz. As long as ya want me.”

 The intensity of his expression made Kiryu’s breath catch in the back of his throat. He swallowed hard. Why did he feel so nervous? Kiryu took a deep breath. “And if I said forever?”

 There was that genuine, shining smile again. The one that made Kiryu’s heart melt. Majima looked like he was ready to jump into his arms, but instead he knocked Kiryu’s knee with his own. “Yeah, Kaz. Forever works for me.” 

 Majima spoke casually, but there was no mistaking the depth of feeling behind his smile. They sat grinning at each other, as if they both needed time to let what they’d just said sink in.  

 The moment was broken by the sound of fast-approaching shoes on the road. Majima pulled his leg away from Kiryu as Ayako appeared, smiling and out of breath. Majima leaned over and checked Kiryu’s watch. “Ya made good time, Ayako-chan.”

“I ran.” she said breathlessly. 

 Majima laughed, put his cigarette out in the ashtray, then slapped the step next to him. “Have a seat. We’ll see how long it takes the rest of ‘em. Are ya on some kinda track team?”

 Ayako shook her head. “Haruka says there’s a running club at her school, and says I should join that when I start there in the new year, but I don’t know.”

“But ya like running, right?”

“Yes, but everyone would be watching me. I don’t know if I’d like that.”

“But you did say you’d think about it, right?” Kiryu asked. 

“Yes, well… maybe.” 

 Majima smiled. “The thundering applause from a big crowd can be kinda nice sometimes. Don’t knock it till ya try it.”

 Ayako nodded, “Okay. Thank you, Uncles.”

 Majima chuckled, and they were soon joined by most of the other kids, who had also rushed home. With overlapping voices, they told Majima about their day at school.

 Kiryu couldn’t help sneaking glances whenever he could. Forever. They’d talked about their long-term plans, and Majima eventually moving in, they’d made jokes about the distant future, and teased each other about getting old. But this felt different. Neither of them had ever quantified those feeling with a word like forever. As they talked with the kids, Kiryu could barely concentrate, and that warm smile stayed on Majima’s face. 

 The last to arrive home were Haruka and Shiro, walking hand in hand. They ran up to Majima just like all the others. 

“Uncle Majima! Look what I have.” Shiro said, holding out a cookbook. “I borrowed it from the library. It’s about cooking for a lot of people at once.”

 Majima picked up the book and flipped through it. “Good find, Chef Shiro. Ooh, coconut curry, hang onto that one. Look.” He held the book out. Kiryu and half a dozen little faces leaned in to see. 

“Serves twelve.” Kiryu read with a nod, “That looks like something we could handle.”

“Let me know how it goes.” Majima said, “I want a full report.”

 Shiro beamed and showed him the recipes he’d already bookmarked with pieces of scrap paper. Kiryu leaned back on one hand and watched them. To think that in his future, moments like this could happen all the time. 

 A laid back lifestyle wasn’t exactly Majima’s speed, but Kiryu knew that life with him would never be boring. They could retire together once the kids had all grown up, or keep running the orphanage if they were able to keep the costs down. Kiryu had never thought to much about retirement or growing old. When he was younger, he always assumed he’d be in a high position at the Tojo when he was an old man. After moving here, the future seemed too far away to worry about. And now? Now he looked forward to it. 

 Kiryu was brought back to the present by Majima grabbing his arm to check his watch. It was almost time for his taxi to show up. The kids had all grabbed paper fans from inside and were fanning them both. 

 Majima laughed and brushed sparkles off his shirt from Riona’s fan. “The cab driver’s gonna see this display and think we treat you kids like servants.”

“We’ll cook you dinner if you stay longer.” Koji said, even though he had little interest in cooking. 

“I wish I could, but not this time.” Majima said. “Ya might not see me for a while, so you guys be good to Uncle Kaz, okay?”

“How long is a while?” Izumi asked. 

“I don’t know, small fry, but as soon as I do, you’ll know too.”

 They heard a car down the street, and knew it was time to say goodbye. Majima held up a hand, quieting the kids who had once again started talking all at once. “It was nice droppin’ in on you guys. I’ll miss ya.”

 As the taxi pulled up, he said quick goodbyes with a gentle shoulder squeeze to each of the kids. Last in line was Kiryu. Majima stood in front of him and slapped his shoulder. “See ya later, Kiryu-chan.” 

 Kiryu smothered a laugh and nodded. “Bye, Goro.”

 And then, once again, he was gone. Kiryu followed the kids back inside to get started on their homework. As noisy as it always was with the kids home, the house still felt too quiet. 

 Twenty minutes later, Kiryu received a message on his phone. He walked to the kitchen to read it.  

How dare u drop a forever on me when I couldn t even grab u! You ll pay 4 that! Will call 2nite <3

 

 There were two more messages after that, which were just hearts. Kiryu typed a reply.

 

I look forward to it. <3

 

 After he sent the message, Kiryu returned to the kids with a smile on his face, and the word forever on his mind.

 

 

Chapter 57: Travel Day

 Kiryu woke up before his alarm. That had happened a lot lately, since the alarm had been set much later than usual now that the kids were out of school, but today he was awake purely because of anticipation. Today he was flying to Kamurocho, and he hadn’t been so eager to go back there since the day he was released from prison. 

 At breakfast, the kids had several requests. There was a manga he had to look for, a teen magazine, and a new candy that they’d seen on TV that couldn’t be found in the local stores. The candy was stressed as the most important part. Kiryu said he’d do his best. 

 After spending the morning trying to relax, Kiryu took Haruka aside and they went through the usual list of dos and don’ts. Haruka took her duties seriously, and he had complete faith in her ability to run the place for a few days, but he wanted to make sure she knew she had support if she needed it. 

“I hope you have a good time, Uncle Kaz. Don’t fight too much.”

“I’ll do my best. And speaking of that, don’t forget to practice.”

“I won’t forget.” Haruka said with a wide smile. 

 Kiryu had put off teaching Haruka for too long, so soon after Majima’s surprise visit, he started with self-defence basics and went from there. Haruka picked up new moves and techniques surprisingly quickly. The online dance videos she’d been doing had been great for her endurance, and she’d always been naturally athletic. Four days ago, he’d given her the first Komaki handbook, which she’d been studying carefully. While he still hated the idea of her fighting, Kiryu couldn’t feel anything but pride at her dedication. 

 They walked through the house together, ensuring that everything was in order, and that Kiryu had packed his ticket and a drawing Eri made of all of them together, a gift for Majima. Once that was done, he changed. He’d debated whether or not to bring his grey suit, but it didn’t feel right going to Kamurocho without it, so he placed the suit jacket in his travel bag, and rolled up the sleeves of his favourite red dress shirt so he wouldn’t get overheated before he arrived. He’d just finished when his cell phone rang. 

“Kiryu-chan! You’re still coming to see me today, right?” Majima asked. 

“I just finished packing. I should be there by eight or nine tonight.”

“Nishida’ll be waiting for ya at the airport. He’ll tell ya where.”

“Goro, I told you, I can take the train.”

“Too late for that. He’s drivin’ there right after his afternoon meeting. Ya won’t get ahold of him so don’t even try.”

 Kiryu sighed. It would get him there much faster, and he was already impatient. “Fine.”

 Majima cackled. “That took less convincing than I thought. I’d go getcha myself but I’ve got somethin’ I gotta take care of first. If I don’t, I’ll have to do it tomorrow, and I blocked the whole day off so I can spend it with you and only you.”

 A whole night and day together. No interruptions, no kids to feed, nothing but the two of them. A real vacation. “I can’t wait.”

 Majima chuckled. “I hope ya slept well, Kaz-chan, ‘cause we ain’t sleepin’ much tonight.”

“Heh, sounds fun.”

 

 The kids all stood outside to wave as Kiryu left, and he did his best not to walk too fast towards the monorail. He was eager, but if he hurried too much, he’d just arrive sweaty and tired, and he wanted to be at his best.

 Months before, Majima said he would hide Kiryu away if he didn’t want people knowing he was in town, but a lot had changed since then. Because of Kiryu’s semi-regular phone calls, Daigo knew he was coming. Even though the young chairman had promised to keep him away from any Tojo business, there was no point in hiding now. Majima had planned a dinner this coming Friday with Daigo and Saejima, which Kiryu had agreed to, even though it made him feel uneasy. 

 The air conditioned airport was a relief after the hot, stuffy train. Kiryu ate a quick meal while he waited, then tried to keep his impatience in check as he boarded the plane. An older lady sat next to him, and after nodding politely, disappeared into a novel for the entire flight. Kiryu watched some comedy show he’d never seen before on the little TV, then at long last, they landed among the bright lights of the city. 

 A week before, Kiryu had asked Majima if Nishida knew about their relationship. Majima had said he hadn’t told him directly, but that Nishida wasn’t stupid. As soon as Kiryu landed and turned his phone back on, he received a message with directions as to where Majima’s second-in-command was waiting. 

 Kiryu thought it might be awkward, but when he saw Nishida waving at him by the exit, he looked completely unfazed. Kiryu smiled to himself. He shouldn’t have been surprised, given how many times Majima involved him in his antics. Nishida greeted him with all the due respect of a man still a part of the Tojo Clan. 

“I’m just a civilian, Nishida, you don’t have to do that.” Kiryu said, waving him away when Nishida tried to take his bag. 

“Thank you, Kiryu-san. Right this way.”

Nishida looked older than Kiryu remembered. His navy blue suit looked well-tailored, and aside from a thick gold chain, he looked more businessman than yakuza. Kiryu couldn’t remember the last time he’d seen Nishida without a construction hat. 

 It was a short walk outside to the black sedan. Nishida insisted Kiryu sit in the back, as he had a large houseplant in the front seat. Kiryu sat down and looked at his phone. He had another message, this time from Majima, sent less than a minute ago. 

 This message had no text, only a photo, which took a minute to load on his flip phone. When it appeared, Kiryu’s eyes grew wide. It was a shot of pale legs crossed at the ankle, seen from the thighs down, wrapped in fishnet stockings and pink heels, lying on a black leather couch. Kiryu stared at the photo, slack-jawed, then snapped his phone shut. “Nishida, we have to make a stop.” 

 Ten minutes later Kiryu was walking down a store aisle looking for a worthy present. Flowers seemed wrong, jewellery was too expensive, but something edible maybe? Chocolates? Majima didn’t have as big a sweet tooth as he did, but something bite sized might work. 

 He was still trying to decide when another message came through. Kiryu opened his phone. 

 

should i change?

 

 Oops! In his eagerness to get a gift, Kiryu had forgotten to respond to the photo. Kiryu typed as fast as he could. 

 

NO! <3 

Can’t wait to see you!

 

 Kiryu grabbed a box of chocolate covered cherries and walked quickly to the till. The chocolates would go well with the other present he found almost a month prior. After paying, Kiryu hurried back to the car. He pulled out the energy drink he’d bought for himself, and passed one up to Nishida, who tried to refuse, but eventually took it. 

“Is Kamurocho Hills out of your hands now?” Kiryu asked. 

“No, not yet.” Nishida said with his usual enthusiasm. “There are still some financial matters to deal with, and contractors are still finishing up with the top floors. Drywall and painting and things like that.”

 Kiryu opened the photo again. Nishida kept talking, but Kiryu was too distracted to catch most of what he said. The weeks had passed slowly, but now Majima, no, Goromi was waiting for him. In fishnets. How could he focus on anything else? He could see the bottom edge of that pink snakeskin dress she’d worn back at Shine. That made him happy. He’d imagined more than one lewd scenario involving that dress. 

 After a while, they were finally among the familiar lights of Kamurocho. Nishida, still talking, laughed. “And then the boss told the Florist that since he’d brought him those four new fighters and the two waitresses, he needed to up the cut he was getting from the arena. The Florist said that was unreasonable, so the boss told him how easily he could cut off elevator access from The Hills. When that wasn’t enough, he reminded the Florist that he’d personally hired almost all the current arena staff, and that all he had to do was say the word and they’d walk. They argued for a while before coming to an agreement, but not before the Florist mentioned the boss’s address.”

 Kiryu’s leg started to shake impatiently. He never knew Nishida to be so talkative. Then again, almost every time Kiryu had seen him in person, Majima was there interrupting him. 

 “Minami and I are the only ones the boss trusts with where he lives, so for three days we searched the building for bugs and cameras. There were none except for two in the underground parking garage, but we took care of them, and he had his locks changed. So nobody should know you’re here. Minami doesn’t even know, and I wasn’t told till the other day. How long are you staying?”

“Just four nights.”

“Oh. That’s too bad, but still, the boss will be happy to see you.”

“How’s he been?” Kiryu asked. 

“I thought he’d been in a surprisingly good mood lately. Then he told me you were coming and it all made sense. He’s a lot more uh… pleasant when he’s in a good mood.”

“Yeah, I’m sure.”

 Nishida pulled into an underground garage in a tall but unassuming older building several blocks east of the Champion’s District. He rolled down his window next to a panel, punched in a code that opened the garage door, then stopped next to an elevator inside. Nishida got out quickly so he could run around and open the door for Kiryu. 

“You’re a good listener, Kiryu-san. Thank you.” Nishida said, bowing respectfully. Kiryu felt a little guilty for not paying attention, but at least Nishida hadn’t noticed. After searching his pockets, Nishida took out a key and passed it to Kiryu, “This is for you. The apartment number is 1512, on the top floor. Call me if you need anything.”

“Thanks for the ride.” Kiryu said, hoisting his travel bag out of the car. “From what I’ve heard, you’re doing a really great job.”

 Nishida looked taken aback, then smiled and bowed until he was back in the car. 

 Kiryu walked into the elevator. As it slowly made its way up, he couldn’t help opening his phone one more time to look at the photo. What a woman, he thought with a dopey grin. His woman, if he was lucky. Hurrying to the very end of a poorly lit beige hallway, he found apartment 1512. 

 He knocked. A second later the peephole darkened and the door unlocked. It opened just slightly, and Kiryu could hear the sound of heels on a wooden floor walking away. “Ready?” Kiryu asked when the sound stopped, his hand on the door knob. From inside, he heard a faint voice say yes. 

 Kiryu stood up straight and fixed his hair before walking inside. No one was behind the door. He kicked off his shoes and walked through a short hallway, his bag in one hand, the chocolates in the other. There was a kitchen to his right, but he kept going straight till he entered the main room. The lighting was dim, soft music was playing, and the faint whir of an air conditioner kept the apartment cool and comfortable. When Kiryu saw her, he dropped his bag to the floor. 

 There she stood, next to a large black couch, with her hands on her hips and a devilish smile on her face. Goromi. She looked similar to the last time Kiryu had seen her. Same outfit, same fishnet stockings, but maybe a different wig? Her curly hair looked more blonde than yellow, and more of it flowed down her back. She also wasn’t wearing an eyepatch, which let him know that this look was for his eyes only. Kiryu still had a lot to learn about makeup, but he knew enough to know that her dark eyeshadow could be described as smoky, and her lips were painted a bright pink. 

 Kiryu took a long, appreciative look at her, feeling speechless, then zeroed in on her lips as she opened them to speak. 

“Hey, baby.” Goromi purred.

Notes:

Goromi will return in Chapter 58: The Butterfly

Chapter 58: The Butterfly

“Kiryu-chan, you came to see me! I’m so happy,” Goromi said, clasping her hands together and bowing, a standard hostess greeting. 

 Kiryu took a step closer to her. “I missed you, Goromi.”

“Have a seat right here,” she said, patting the left side of the black leather couch. Kiryu sat, and Goromi slowly walked around the coffee table to sit on the other side. Kiryu couldn’t keep his eyes off her. The tight dress moved with her hips, swaying above her long, fishnet covered legs. He was used to sitting on Majima’s other side, but Goromi sat down on the right side of the couch. Kiryu wondered if it was because she was trying to replicate their time at Shine. Only then did Kiryu notice an elaborate fruit platter on the coffee table in front of them, along with several bottles of liquor, an ice bucket, and two glasses. 

“What are we drinkin’?” Goromi asked. 

“A whiskey, please.” 

 The familiar routine followed. Goromi poured them both a whiskey on the rocks, and lit a cigarette for him after they clinked the glasses together. Everything he would expect from a professional hostess, except for how far apart her knees were spread. 

“This is impressive.” Kiryu said, pointing to the fruit platter. “did you do this yourself?”

 Goromi covered her face with her hand and giggled. “Hostesses don’t deal with the fruit, Kiryu-chan. I have people for that.”

“Heh, I hope your people didn’t cut his hand.”

 Goromi let out a much more natural laugh. “Nah, he didn’t.”

 Kiryu looked at her hands anyway. Her nails were painted the same pink as her dress, but they were her natural short nails instead of the long claws he remembered. There were three pink bandages over her knuckles. 

“Goromi, you’ve been fighting?” Kiryu asked, reaching for her hand. She pulled away before he could touch her. 

“Tsk, tryna get friendly already? Shame on you, Kiryu-chan,” Goromi said, her eye shining in amusement. 

 Kiryu pulled his hand back. He could play this game, even if he was already dying to touch her. “Forgive me. Will you accept this gift?” He handed her the box of chocolate-covered cherries, and she giggled loudly as she grabbed it from him.

“Kiryu-chan! I love these. Is this what made ya take so damn long getting here?”

“Yeah. After you sent that photo, I knew I needed more than just one present.” 

“There’s more? Or are you my present?” Goromi leaned in as she spoke, close without touching. Was she trying to drive him crazy, or was that just happening on its own?

“There’s one more. It’s not much, but it’s something I found in Okinawa that made me think of you.” Kiryu said. 

“Me?” she asked, pointing at herself, “Or him?”

“You, Goromi.”

“Show me,” she demanded. 

“Soon. We just sat down,” Kiryu said, hiding his smile behind his glass. The whiskey tasted strong and smooth. “This is good.”

“Only the best for my favourite customer. How was the flight?” Goromi asked before taking a drink. 

“Fine, but it felt way too long.”

“Eager to see little ol’ me, huh?”

“Yes.” Kiryu said, eyeing the zipper on the front of her dress. “You look beautiful, Goromi.”

 Goromi smirked at him. She picked up a fork, stabbed a small piece of watermelon, and held it out for him. Kiryu kept eye contact as he bit it off her fork. “Didn’t know if there were any fruits ya didn’t like, so I did a bit of everything.”

“I don’t like starfruit, but that’s about it.” Kiryu said.

“When did ya ever eat a starfruit?”

“At a hostess club. It was sour.” 

 Kiryu picked up a grape with his fingers and held it out. She hesitated for a moment, then leaned in and ate it, letting her glossy lips glide over his fingers. Kiryu couldn’t take his eyes off those lips. She was definitely trying to drive him crazy. 

“Nice move, Kiryu-chan. Keep that up and I’ll let ya take me on an after-hours date.”

“You… want to go somewhere?” Kiryu asked, unable to hide his disappointment. He had no interest in leaving the privacy of this apartment. 

“I was thinkin’ a karaoke date.” Goromi said, pointing to a karaoke machine next to the large flatscreen TV. 

“Heh, I didn’t even notice it was there.” Kiryu said. He leaned in and let his voice go deep. “How can I convince you?” 

Goromi smiled, and fed him a piece of cantaloupe. She leaned in as he chewed, and a tendril of blonde hair fell over her vibrant, inked shoulder. “I want my second present.”

“I can’t say no to you.” Kiryu said. 

“That’s what I like to hear.” Goromi said as Kiryu went and retrieved the cloth drawstring pouch from his bag. “What is it?”

 He sat back down and handed over the pouch. She opened it, revealing a pair of heart-shaped sunglasses with pink mirrored lenses. She looked genuinely shocked. “Kaz, you really were thinkin’ about me back on that island of yers.”

“I told you I missed you, Goromi.” Kiryu said, leaning in, “Every part of you.”

“Hang on, I wanna try these on.” Goromi said, abruptly standing and walking over to what must have been a bathroom. She didn’t close the door, and a few seconds later she reappeared.

“They look great on you.” Kiryu said. Goromi posed next to the couch, looking exceptionally tall. 

“I love ‘em.” She looked down at Kiryu, lips pursed. It was harder to read her expression with the glasses. “I was gonna wait some more before we moved on to the second part.”

 Kiryu took another drink. The whiskey really was some of the best he’d ever had. “It’s up to you. I can be patient for a little longer if I have to be.” 

 Goromi bit her lip. “It took me way too long to set that damn thing up. Sing me a song, Kiryu-chan.”

 Kiryu nodded. Goromi walked over and  bent at the waist to turn on the machine. It looked brand new, and was already connected to the TV. Kiryu had a hard time looking anywhere other than her legs, but managed to finally take a look around at the room.

 It was more sparse than he expected, with white walls and unassuming furniture. A comfortable looking easy-chair in the same black leather as the couch was to his left. Mounted on the wall beyond that were a set of katana. Near the enterance to the room was an umbrella stand filled mostly with baseball bats. On the opposite wall, between the doors to the bathroom and bedroom, hung three hannya masks, one of each colour. The black and red masks were on either side of the white one, which had its jaw missing. Kiryu smiled, he knew that one well. All three masks wore eyepatches.

“This thing’s supposed to have a ton of songs on it, including a bunch of new ones,” Goromi said, bending again to pick up a microphone. Kiryu caught a quick glimpse of black underwear before she turned away, pretending to look shocked. 

 Goromi held out the microphone and a controller to him. He couldn’t help brushing their hands together as he took them. She hesitated at the touch, and Kiryu got the feeling that she was also feeling impatient. “Ladies first.” he said, motioning to the machine. 

 Goromi pulled the glasses down so he could see her eye. “You’re bein’ too nice, Kiryu-chan.” she warned. 

 Right. He had assumed that as a hostess, she would want him to be polite. But this wasn’t an average hostess. This was Goromi, and Goromi liked strength. Kiryu stood up. “Okay. I’ll go first.”

 Kiryu looked through the songs. He wasn’t the best with technology, but he knew his way around a karaoke machine. There were a lot of newer songs, including one of his recent favourites. It was perfect. A love song that was exciting instead of sappy. He selected it, and after a second the intro to Machine Gun Kiss started playing. Kiryu took a deep breath, stood next to the couch and began to sing. 

 At first, Goromi clapped along and shouted encouragement, but halfway through she took her sunglasses off, sat back and watched, legs spread wide again. Kiryu knew the words well enough to look at her instead of the screen, and she stared back at him with that hungry look that made Kiryu’s confidence soar. Caught up in the moment, he dropped one knee in front of her as the song finished. After his last line he dropped the mic, took her hand and pressed his lips to it. 

 The music ended, leaving the room in silence, and the screen displaying a near-perfect score. Kiryu kept hold of her hand and looked up at her. She was frozen, mouth open, and an intense look in her eye. 

“Fuck it,” Goromi said. She pulled him forward by the shoulders and kissed him hard. Kiryu touched the side of her neck, adjusting his arm after his wrist was scratched by one of her earrings, which were large, sharp gold stars. She smelled like perfume, spicy and floral, and tasted like fruit and whiskey. Her blonde hair brushed against the side of his face, but those soft lips were familiar, and that skilled tongue Kiryu knew so well met with his, pushing its way into his mouth, inviting and warm. 

 Goromi pulled back, then leaned right back in for one more long kiss. Kiryu looked at her face. All the sharp angles, the single eye, the... ah, that’s what was different. He touched her bare chin. “You shaved?”

“Was wonderin’ if you’d noticed,” she whispered. “Like it?”

 He kissed her chin, then each corner of her lips as he considered. “I like how soft your skin feels, but… you could grow a full beard or shave your head and you’d be just as beautiful.”

 He expected annoyance, but Goromi just smiled. She twisted a long strand of blonde hair between her fingers and pointed to the wig. “You don’t know what’s goin’ on under here yet. Maybe I did shave my head.”

 Kiryu laughed and kissed her again. “I love you.” he said.

“Get back on the couch, Kiryu-chan.” she ordered. Kiryu nodded and walked around the back. He sat down closer to her this time, so their knees were touching. 

“I got ya all pink,” Goromi said, wiping lipstick off his lips with her thumb. He nuzzled his face against her hand, and she smiled before she pulled away. “You’re makin’ me want to skip ahead again.”

“I always buy the karaoke room for the full hour. We can do whatever we want in here.” Kiryu said. 

“But Kiryu-chan, what if there’s a camera, or a nosy waiter comes in?” Goromi said playfully, handing him the drink he’d forgotten about. She took a long swig of her own. 

 Kiryu thought for a second. “I’ll lock the door, and I don’t see any cameras. If we find one, we’ll fight through this place till they give us the footage. 

“Ooh, good answer. But we’re safe in here now, ain’t we? Nobody’s watchin’. It’s just you and me, locked in a room where nobody can interrupt us.” Her high heel brushed against his leg. “What are ya gonna do, Kiryu-chan?”

 Kiryu knocked back the rest of the whiskey, and leaned in. “I’m going to ask you for another drink.”

 Goromi laughed. “Tease! Ya want somethin’ fancy, or more of the same.”

“Fancy? Do you need to get up to make it?”

“Yeah, but I’ll let ya come with me and show ya how it’s done.”

 She stood up, towering over him with her heels. Kiryu slowly extended his hand towards her leg, then looked up. He wasn’t sure if Goromi would let him touch her or slap him. There was an amused half-smile on her pink lips, which looked more dangerous by the second. It was almost a challenge, and Kiryu would be a fool to back down from this challenge. 

 He touched her thigh, his fingers against the warm skin underneath her stocking. “I’ve thought a lot about these fishnets.”

“So I’ve heard.” She raised her leg slowly, and put her foot down directly beside Kiryu’s thigh on the couch. She had no problem balancing, impressive given the heels, but Kiryu kept his hand on her leg for support. He kept eye contact as he pushed his luck and pressed his cheek to the inside of her knee. She still looked fierce, but her smile widened. 

 When Kiryu broke her gaze, he saw what he’d only caught a glimpse of earlier. The last time he saw her, she’d worn underwear that matched her short dress. The ones she wore now were black lace, and sheer enough to leave nothing to the imagination. Kiryu’s mouth went dry. Almost involuntary, he leaned forward. He had to kiss her. He needed to feel that lace against his skin. He was stopped when her hand weaved through his hair and wrenched it back, forcing him to look up at her. A fresh wave of arousal hit him hard.

“Thought you were thirsty,” Goromi said, staring at him like an animal watching her prey. 

“I am.” Kiryu replied, shifting in his seat. She still held his hair, and it was making him feel desperate. She took her leg off the couch and lowered it slowly, using the hand on his head for balance. She smiled at him once more, then walked away. Kiryu let his back fall against the couch and let out the breath he’d been holding. He’d tried to fight fire with fire by asking for another drink, but the lust-fueled anticipation was getting too much to bare.

 He found Goromi standing in front of a kitchen cabinet, which contained an impressive liquor collection. Later, Kiryu would have to examine the contents in detail, but right now his only concern was Goromi. He walked till he was right behind her, and put a hand on her slim waist, over the shiny, tight fabric of her dress. He thought she might object, but she pressed her body back against him, slowly swaying her hips.

“Hard already, baby?” she purred. 

“Since the second I saw you,” Kiryu replied, and kissed the back of her shoulder. She was so much taller than him in those heels. He never thought that could be a turn-on, but it was. “I missed the taste of your skin.”

“Kazuma.” she whispered. 

“Be my girl, Goromi.” he whispered back. He moved her hair aside and kissed along her shoulder to her neck, till his lips were next to her right ear. “Be mine.”

“Ya think it’s… that easy?” she breathed, her voice catching as Kiryu pulled her hips closer. 

“Yeah.” Kiryu murmured, “I think you want this as much as I do.” 

 His hand travelled to her abdomen, moving lower and lower till she grabbed his hand and held it firm. 

“Kiryu-chan, these cheesy-ass lines are gettin’ me all lightheaded! I need to sit down,” she said, and turned her head to the side. He moved his head away just before her sharp earring grazed his cheek. “Know any good places I could sit?”

“Heh, I can think of a couple.”

 Kiryu led her back to the couch and sat down in the middle, then beckoned to her. She did as he’d hoped, and straddled his lap. Before he had a chance to look up, his head was pulled back by his hair again. A noise escaped him that made her giggle, then she kissed him hard. 

“Let me touch you,” he said breathlessly. 

“Wasn’t I supposed to make you a drink?” she asked. 

 Kiryu bucked his hips. “I don’t want you going anywhere.”

 She bit her lip, looking amused again. Her lipstick was smudged and that only made her look hotter. She took both his hands and held them against her waist. “I don’t have to. Hold on tight, Kiryu-chan.”

 Before he could question her, she squeezed her legs around him and arched her back, leaning so far backwards that he did have to hold her steady. She stretched her arms above her and picked up the whiskey bottle on the coffee table. As she began to pour, Kiryu opened his mouth to speak, but was distracted by the way her display of flexibility had pulled down the top of her dress. 

 Even though Kiryu had seen Majima shirtless more often than not, gawking at Goromi’s nipples felt forbidden. Not that that stopped him from looking. He slowly rolled his hips. “I’ve never seen a hostess do this before.”

“Concentrate, Kaz-chan,” Goromi warned, “if ya drop me you’re gettin’ kicked in the face.”

 Kiryu squeezed her waist. “I won’t let you fall.”

“You better not.” She pulled herself back up, glass in hand, and brought it to his lips. “Drink.”

 He took a long sip as she fixed her wig. It wasn’t the kind of whiskey he would normally shoot back, but right now he didn’t care. “There had to have been an easier way to do that,” Kiryu teased as she drank from the same glass. 

 Her dress was still out of place, and Kiryu’s eyes were drawn down again. She noticed, but didn’t move to fix it. “Is that a complaint?”

“No, it was sexy.” Kiryu said. He kept one hand on her back as he fixed her dress with the other. 

“Tryna protect my modesty, Kiryu-chan?”

“At least until I finish my drink.” 

 He should have expected what came next, which was Goromi pushing the glass against his lips. She kept it there for longer than it took to take one drink, and when he turned his head away, she downed the rest. She started to lean back again, but Kiryu took the glass from her. With one hand still firmly on her back, he held her to him as he put the glass down.

 After that, neither of them could hold back. Goromi grabbed him, holding his face in her hands as she kissed him, moving her hips against his. Kiryu ran his hands up her thighs, up to the hem of her short dress, which was riding up. He continued up the front of the dress and put his hands on the zipper. She broke the kiss and placed her hands on her thighs, watching him. She was bare underneath, and Kiryu couldn’t help pressing his lips to her left nipple. 

 Her head fell backwards as she arched her back. Kiryu gave all his attention to her chest, squeezing one nipple as he licked the other. The noises she made were driving him wild. He looked down to see her unbuckling the belt on her dress, which was all bunched at her waist. 

“How do I take this off, Goromi?” 

“There’s a longer zipper at the side, then it can go over the head.” she said, twisting the dress to unzip it herself.

“You’re so sexy.” Kiryu whispered, and helped her pull the dress over her shoulders, one at a time, then carefully over her head so as not to disturb the wig. 

“That’s a helluva lot easier with two people,” she said. Kiryu was barely paying attention. The only thing she wore now was the skimpy pair of lace thong underwear, which barely contained her. He couldn’t help touching the thin string at her hip. What a sight. “Ya need a better view, Kaz-chan?”

 She placed her hands on his shoulders and raised up on her knees. He hugged her close, her lace covered erection firm against his chest as his hands roamed over her ass and thighs. “This is pretty,” he said, as she pulled back enough that he could finally run his fingers along the front soft lace. “but I need to take it off.”

“Yes,” she replied, rubbing herself against his hand. “And hurry up about it.”

 He pulled with both hands. She sighed as her cock sprung free. “Can you stand up so I can get rid of this?” Kiryu asked. 

“I’m tempted to make ya cut ‘em off, but we can do it your way this time.” 

 Kiryu offered his hand to help her to her feet, then pulled the lacy garment past the fishnets and heels. He looked up at her, tall and radiant. He rested his hand on her hip and kissed the tip of her cock. 

“Ah, Kaz!” she said. Kiryu didn’t understand why she sounded so surprised when she was standing at such a perfect angle for him. He nudged her closer, and opened his mouth. Goromi was already so hard that it was difficult to fit her in his mouth, but Kiryu did his best. She held onto his hair. guiding the movement of his head. 

“Been dreamin’ ‘bout this.” Goromi said, sounding more like Majima. “I mean—” she corrected, in a much higher tone. 

 Kiryu pulled back before she could say more. “Don’t worry about that. It doesn’t matter to me if you’re her or him,” he said between deep breaths, “as long as you’re mine.”

 She smiled and touched his cheek. “I’m all yours, ya fuckin’ sap.” 

 Kiryu couldn’t help himself and slapped her ass, making her yelp before they shared a laugh. She pulled his head up and kissed him, then turned and reached for the liquor bottles on the coffee table. Kiryu was about to tell her that he didn’t need another drink, but then saw that what she pulled out was a large container of lube that was hidden among the bottles. “I’m gonna ride ya till yer head explodes.”

“Anything you want, Goromi-chan,” Kiryu said, and meant it. He took the lube from her so she could straddle him again. As she settled in close, he squeezed some into his hand. It smelled strongly of cherries, which reminded him of their first time together, and made him throb in anticipation. As he reached around to prepare her, she unbuttoned his shirt. Kiryu was so focused on her, that it hadn’t even occurred to him to undress. 

 Goromi moaned as Kiryu easily slipped two fingers inside her. “You feel incredible.”

 She chuckled, and undid his pants, groping at him till she pulled his cock through the front of his boxer-briefs. “I was hoping you’d show up in this suit,” she whispered, then moaned loudly as he curled his fingers, moving her ass back against his hand. “Fuck, I can’t wait anymore.”

“Come here, Goromi-chan,” Kiryu said. “Please.” He didn’t care how desperate he sounded. He needed her. She smiled that beautiful, devilish smile as she lowered herself down onto his cock. Kiryu had to shut his eyes tight. That hot, electric surge of pleasure flooded his system, threatening to overtake him almost immediately. He grit his teeth, but she placed two fingers against his mouth, tracing his lips. 

“Don’t hold back, baby,” Goromi said, rising up slowly, then sitting down again. “you don’t have to be quiet here.”

 It wasn’t what he was used to, but he’d try, for her. He’d do anything for her. He licked her fingers, and sucked on them when she pushed both digits into his mouth. Kiryu’s squeezed her ass as she moved, allowing himself to moan louder than he ever would have back at home. 

 He slapped her ass again, and Goromi responded by clenching down. “You’re playin’… a dangerous game, Kaz.” she said, her voice strained. 

“I know.” Kiryu said after her fingers left his mouth, “Ah, you’re so hot.”

 She rode him, her hands gripping his arms. His hands stayed on her ass, but she didn’t need any help. Her blonde curls bounced as she sped up. Neither of them had any patience left to go slowly. 

 Before too long, Kiryu had to move. He needed more. He slowed her movements with his hands, and kissed her when she raised an eyebrow at him. “Can I move you?”

 She nodded and rose up off of him. He flipped her so she lay on her back, her head against the low armrest. “Do you want these off?” he asked, touching the heels she still wore. 

“Kaz, don’t make me wait.” she whined. Kiryu pulled her shoes off quickly and placed them on the floor, then pulled her leg up. She understood what he wanted, and when he kneeled on the couch and entered her again, her ankles were wrapped around his neck. He’d only paused to take his shirt off and grab more of the lube. She gasped when he took hold of her cock. 

“You’re… so beautiful.” Kiryu murmured, nuzzling her leg as he thrust his hips. She moaned as he pumped his hand over her hard cock, as if to remind him to be louder. “You’re perfect, Goromi.” he added. 

 She bit her lip, and did look absolutely perfect as she lay there, blonde hair spread out over the armrest behind her, smudged makeup, wearing only fishnet stockings that were falling down her legs. A centrefold from a dirty magazine that was all his own. 

“Faster, Kaz,” she ordered, swatting his hand away so she could jerk herself off. He grabbed her hips, lifting them high off the couch and driving into her till they were both panting hard. She clenched around him, keeping eye contact as her legs trembled, still locked around Kiryu’s head. Her eye rolled back and she came. She squeezed him between her legs, inner muscles clenching down, setting him on fire as she loudly moaned, her voice deep and sexy as she angled her release so his abdomen was spattered with her hot cum. “Come on, baby,” she urged, still gasping for air. “I know you’re close. Come on.”

 Kiryu was right on the edge. She kept encouraging him till he tensed up and yelled, coming hard as he held her tight. Maybe too tight for most people, but not her. Not his Goromi. She squeezed him over and over till he finally stilled. 

 He let her legs down one at a time, then slowly pulled out, finding a rolled up damp towel on the edge of the coffee table that he suspected was there just for this purpose. His hand shook slightly as he gently cleaned them both off, then he leaned over her and she pulled him down the rest of the way. Both her arms and legs wrapped around him as they lazily kissed. When Kiryu had to breathe again he pulled back and ran his fingers along her cheek. 

“I think I miss the goatee,” he said, touching her bare upper lip till she tried to bite his finger. 

“Yeah? I uh, got too in my head about it earlier. Thought you’d like it better this way.”

 Kiryu shook his head, surprised at her words. “I meant what I said earlier. Full beard or bald, you’re beautiful, but I liked the goatee.”

“You might regret that tomorrow if I don’t shave and scratch the hell outta yer face.”

“It’ll be worth it,” Kiryu said, and kissed her again. “Are you comfortable there?”

Her arms and legs were still wrapped around him. “The wig’s startin’ to itch. I think I need to go back to bein’ Goro soon. Once I can walk again.”

 Kiryu nodded. “Spending this time with you has been wonderful, but I miss Goro.”

“Stop, you’ll make me blush.” she said. “Gimme one of those chocolates, Kiryu-chan.” 

“Heh, you’ll have to let me go first. I can’t bend like you can.”

 She chuckled and released him, looking content and sexy as she lounged on the couch. Kiryu pulled up his pants and underwear, which were still around his knees, and found his shirt to drape over her. He opened the chocolate covered cherries and fed her one, then at her request, poured them another glass of whiskey to share. 

 Goromi sighed. “I had such big plans, Kaz. I was gonna tease ya till you couldn’t take it anymore, but ya had to go sing for me, didn’t ya?”

“Heh, your plan worked. I couldn’t’ve taken any more teasing.”

“Hmm, guess so.”

 Kiryu ate one of the cherries, which were sweet and tart and paired well with the whiskey. He sat back and she put her feet in his lap. He pulled her fishnets off one at a time, and rubbed her legs as she reached for her pack of smokes. 

“It’s nice, smoking inside,” Kiryu said after she passed him a lit cigarette. “When the orphanage was rebuilt, Haruka and Shiro gave me a presentation about how second-hand smoke was bad for everyone. I haven’t smoked in the house since, but I miss it sometimes.”

“You can do anything ya want here, just don’t start any fires.” she said. She sat up, drawing Kiryu’s shirt around her like a blanket. 

 What he wanted was to kiss her again, which he did, then passed her the glass.  She took a swig and set it down on the table. “Okay. Last chance to say somethin’ to Goromi before she disappears into the night.”

“I love you, Goromi-chan.”

 Goromi laughed. “I knew you were gonna say that.” She took his hand. “You…make this heart flutter like nobody else, Kiryu-chan. Next time ya see me, I’m not gonna be so easy on ya.”

“Oh? I look forward to it.”

 She pulled Kiryu’s shirt around her like a robe and walked barefoot to the bathroom. Kiryu took a drag from his cigarette and sighed as he watched her go. 

 What a woman.

Chapter 59: Pyjama Party

 Kiryu sat back on Majima’s leather couch. It smelled faintly of both perfume and cologne, and it made Kiryu smile to think that both scents were from the same person. Not everyone was lucky enough to have a partner with so many different, exciting sides. The bathroom door opened, and before he could look over he heard fast footsteps, then the bedroom door slammed shut. 

 After stretching, Kiryu got up to look at the view. The air conditioning felt nice on his bare chest. Far above and far enough away from all its problems, the city was beautiful. The tall structures of the Millennium tower and Kamurocho Hills loomed over everything. Kiryu smiled at the second building. A testament to what Majima was capable of when he put in the effort. Their relationship was just as big of a testament. 

 He checked out the bathroom, which was small but well designed. A large basket of all manner of amenities and hygiene products sat on the counter, so expansive that it put both fancy suites and love hotels to shame. Kiryu picked up a small bottle of cologne. It smelled like a sophisticated version of the body spray he used years ago. The label said it had notes of cedar, bergamot, and nutmeg. He cleaned himself up and sprayed a small amount of the cologne, and stepped back out and back over to the window just before the bedroom door opened. 

 Majima Goro walked out looking the way Kiryu was most accustomed to seeing him. Snakeskin jacket and eyepatch, and black pants. The only differences were the lack of shoes, and the addition of the harness he’d only seen in pixelated cell phone photos. He’d removed most of Goromi’s makeup, but his eyes were still dark and sexy. Everything about him was sexy. 

“Majima-no-nii-san,” Kiryu said. 

“Kiryu-chan,” Majima replied, strutting towards him. “Long time no see.”

“Too long.” 

 Before Majima could speak again, Kiryu grabbed the lapels of his jacket and wrenched him forward into a kiss. Majima’s hands snaked around his waist as his tongue pushed into Kiryu’s mouth. 

“I’ve wanted to do that for a long time,” Kiryu said when he finally pulled back, still holding his jacket. “Years, actually.”

 Majima sighed. “Damn, I missed you, Kazzy.”

“I missed you too.” Kiryu replied, and pulled him forward again into a tight hug. When he opened his eyes, the three hannya on the wall stared back at him. “I like your masks.”

 Majima chuckled. “You know how it is, ya get somethin’ inked into your back and it’s hard not to make it your whole deal.”

“Heh, I know.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima kissed his neck. “Ya smell good, Kaz.” 

“Thanks to you. You always surprise me with how thoughtful you are.”

 Majima chuckled. “Alright. I’ve been a crappy host. Let me show you where to put yer stuff.”

“Don’t say that. I couldn’t have asked for a better welcome.”

 Majima just smiled as Kiryu picked up his bag. Majima stayed by his side, keeping a hand on him as they walked. Kiryu was happy to see the pants he was wearing were his silky pyjama pants instead of the leather. Those would a lot easier to take off later. 

 “So, here’s the kitchen, obviously.” Majima said. He went to the large cupboard Goromi had opened before. “All my booze. I still want to make a bunch of fancy drinks for ya, but help yourself. I got too many bottles I never open, and this is the best reason to open ‘em.”

 The tour continued into the bathroom, where Kiryu put down the small bag he kept his toothbrush in, not that he would’ve needed it with that giant gift basket. Then Majima led him into the bedroom. 

“This room feels more like you.” Kiryu said as he looked around. The closet on the right wall was open, and Kiryu could see suits and other menswear, but also that flashy idol costume, and at least one more dress. There were various knick-knacks and weapons hung up and displayed on shelves, a dresser with a framed photo of the grand opening of The Hills along with several of the presents he’d received from the Morning Glory kids, but none of that drew the eye quite like biggest piece of furniture.

“You weren’t kidding about the bed.” Kiryu said. “It looks like a giant pillow.”

 The king sized bed took up the left half of the room, with shiny satin sheets under a plush comforter, all a deep red. The headboard was an ornate black metal. There was a window on the left wall, with just enough space to walk around to it, and a nightstand on either side. Another bottle of lube, nearly as large as the one Majima had bought in Okinawa, sat on the nightstand. 

“I go hard and rest well.” Majima said, then lightly sank his teeth into Kiryu’s bicep. “I’ve thought about you in here so many times.”

 “Heh, stop.” Kiryu pushed Majima’s head away from his arm, then put a hand around his waist. “There’s so much I want to do, but I might need a few more minutes.”

“We’ve got all night, darlin’. One condition.” Majima said. 

“Which is?”

“Ya brought those pyjama pants I got ya, right?”

 Kiryu nodded and put his bag on the bed, before he went looking for the pants, he pulled out the drawing he’d packed and handed it over. “Here. This is from Eri.”

 Majima looked at his present as Kiryu changed. “Aww, look at all of us. I think I picked out everybody, but what’s that round thing?” Majima asked once Kiryu was only wearing the pyjama pants. 

“Oh, heh. We all went to an arcade after the last day of school. Eri fell in love with the giant Bun-chan that was sitting on top of the UFO Catcher. It shows up in all her art now.”

“That’s real cute,” Majima said. “Remind me to thank her later.”

 He put the picture on one of his shelves, and turned on his heel. “So, I got more food than just the fruit, and I’m gonna need to hear ya sing again… what?”

 Kiryu was staring. Majima looked so happy, so comfortable. He reached for the lapels of Majima’s jacket and kissed him again. 

“I’ve pulled you around by this thing so much, I’m surprised it hasn’t ripped.” Kiryu said, rubbing his thumb against the snakeskin. 

“Ya wanna know a real juicy secret?” 

 Kiryu nodded, smiling because Majima was smiling. 

“I got three of these.”

 Kiryu moved his hand inside the jacket and against Majima’s waist. “Heh, I won’t tell anybody.”

 Majima brought him over to the closet. He picked up a hanger with a second snakeskin jacket and handed it over. This one had a lot more wear and tear. Majima pointed to a spot by the lapel. “Look, it’s all stretched out. That’s your handiwork.” He then pointed to the one he was wearing. “This one I found about ten years after I got the first. Kept it in the closet forever, till that one finally bit the dust.” He touched the older jacket. “The Shangri-La was too much for this old thing, but I still can’t throw it away.”

 Majima spoke quickly and excitedly considering he was taking about a jacket. Kiryu nodded, still looking over the older jacket. The lining was covered in bloodstains, tips, and a bullet hole. “I’m the first person you’ve told this to, aren’t I?”

 Majima smiled sheepishly. “Don’t know why it’s so damn important but it is. I got this short one too but I don’t wear it much anymore.” he said, pulling out the third jacket. This one was cropped, about half the length of the others. 

 Kiryu hung up the oldest jacket carefully. This was a prized possession, and he was going to treat it as such. “Can I see you in it?” he asked, motioning to the short jacket.

“Sure.”

 Majima was about to remove his jacket, but Kiryu stepped in and pushed it off his shoulders, then kissed just above his collarbone. 

“Fuck, Kaz. I missed ya like crazy.” Majima said with a sigh. “Lemme put this on so I can take it off again. I’m still on fire from earlier.”

“Heh, fine.” Kiryu said, and took a couple of steps back. Majima put on the cropped jacket and posed, leaning back and baring his teeth. Kiryu looked him up and down and nodded. “It looks good with this thing.”

“The harness?”

“Yeah,” Kiryu said, stepping towards him and touching the middle of the harness, where all the straps were joined around a metal ring. He hooked a finger inside the ring and pulled Majima forward again. “You look so sexy.”

 Majima kissed him, then stepped back so he could take off his jacket. He also removed his eyepatch and gloves. As he hung up the jacket, he chuckled. “I still remember when we first met. I’d just got my first one, the first thing I bought for myself after gettin’ free, and you called it ugly.”

“I did?” Kiryu asked. He remembered the day they met, but it was so long ago that some details were fuzzy. “Well, I like it now.”

“I’d show ya the rest of my stuff, but sittin’ down sounds way too good. It’s been a while since I wore heels.”

 Kiryu tried to keep a straight face. “You, in heels? I can’t picture that.”

 Majima laughed and tackled him, sending them both backwards and onto the bed. It felt like falling into a cloud. The sheets were slippery and felt cool against Kiryu’s flushed skin. As they half-heartedly wrestled, they somehow both ended up the right way up on the bed, with Kiryu on his back and Majima on top of him. 

 The mattress was firm, but soft and comfortable. Kiryu didn’t think he could ever feel more relaxed, then Majima’s head rested on his shoulder, and he let out a loud sigh, feeling deliriously happy. 

“I don’t like sleeping without you,” Kiryu admitted. “Even in the heat I…” he debated whether to continue, but he’d already started, and Majima was looking at him. “I’ve been using another pillow to curl up with.”

“Don’t get me all emotional, Kaz. I’ll kick your ass.”

 Kiryu laughed and held him close. “I missed that too.”

 Majima’s arm tightened around his ribs. “You’re gonna get me all riled up already.”

 Kiryu’s hand ran down over the straps of the harness, down to his silky pants. He continued further and squeezed Majima’s ass. “This feels good.”

“I was gonna come out of this room naked, but figured I’d start with something more familiar.”

“Hmm, both are good. You always look so good,” Kiryu mused. 

“Don’t go fallin’ asleep on me yet, Kaz. Ya just got here,” Majima said. 

“I’m not tired, just comfortable. We don’t have anything to do tomorrow, right?”

“Nope. We can stay in bed all day, maybe get some food delivered, and fuck each other’s brains out.”

 Kiryu held Majima tighter, unable to keep his hands away. “Sounds great.”

“This is real, right?” Majima asked with a forced laugh. “It’s not a dream? I’ve really got ya here?”

“Heh, want me to pinch you?”

“Ooh, where?”

 Kiryu laughed and sat them both up. “When are you going to sing for me?”

“Maybe after another drink.”

“I do want to know what you meant by a fancy drink.”

 Majima slid off the bed and onto his feet, then pulled Kiryu up and brought him back to the kitchen for their third stop in front of the liquor cabinet. 

“Kaz, I’ve always said you were one tough customer, but I can’t picture ya walkin’ into a bar and ordering a bright blue fruity drink.”

“Heh, I can’t say that I have.”

“Now’s your chance.”

“I wouldn’t know where to start,” Kiryu said, wrapping his arms around Majima from behind, “but Bartender Majima hasn’t steered me wrong yet.”

 Majima leaned back against him and sighed. “If ya keep distracting me, I’ll never get this done.”

“I’m not trying to distract you, but I don’t think I can be any further away from you right now.”

“Kaz, nobody’s ever said anything like that to be before. Nothin’ even close.”

“Maybe nobody else knew just how good they had it with you.”

 Majima had started gathering liquor bottles, but stopped. “Don’t say that.  Sappy’s one thing, but let’s not rewrite history here.” He put the bottles down and turned to face Kiryu. “I’ve done some godawful stuff to the people in my life. I’m doing everything I can to make sure I don’t do any of that shit to you, but…”

“I get it,” Kiryu said, touching Majima’s cheek under his bad eye. “You’ve been great to me, that’s all I really meant.”

“Thanks, Kaz-chan,” Majima said, moving his head so he could kiss Kiryu’s palm. “Now for fuck’s sake, let me make this drink already!”

 A few minutes later they were back on the couch with expensive glassware in their hands. Majima was right, they weren’t something Kiryu would think of ordering in a bar, and probably couldn’t, considering the drinks were called Maji-Margaritas. They were blue, shaken, and garnished with a skewer of fruit from the platter in front of them. Majima looked through the karaoke songs, while Kiryu watched him, entranced by the way he was licking salt off the rim of his glass. 

 Majima looked over to say something, caught Kiryu staring, and burst out laughing. “Damn, Kaz. Ya really do like me, don’t ya?”

“Were you doubting that?”

“No. I dunno. Maybe part of me thought things might be different in Kamurocho, away from yer little strip of paradise on the beach.”

 Kiryu frowned. “We just had sex.”

“I know. I ain’t doubtin’ this, it just all feels way too good to be true.”

 Kiryu put his arm around Majima’s shoulders. “That I can understand.”

“You’re so goddamn sweet, Kazzy,” Majima said, and kissed his cheek. “I got my songs all picked out. Let’s do this.”

 The music started, and Majima grabbed the mic. They both laughed through Majima’s very loud version of Get to the Top, and Majima laid on the couch and fanned himself dramatically as Kiryu sang Kamurocho Lullaby directly to him. They took longer and longer breaks between each song, getting snacks, making drinks, and getting increasingly handsy. 

 After he’d lost track of how long they’ve been singing, Kiryu suggested a duet. Majima was sitting across his lap as he scrolled through the songs, gnawing on Kiryu’s ear till he found what he was looking for, a song they’d sang together once four years ago. 

“Hell yes, Kiryu-chan. Get up, get up!” Majima said, hauling Kiryu to his feet as the words Pride From Despair appeared on screen. Majima’s cheeks were flushed as he leaned in, looking as happy and drunk as Kiryu felt. Kiryu kissed him till the music started. They shared the mic, faces close together. Majima yelled out the accompaniments as he gripped Kiryu’s arm.

 Kiryu let himself get caught up in the emotion of the music. It was loud, dark, and rough, but he didn’t remember this song ever feeling so sexy. Then again, no one had ever stared at him while he sang with such electric intensity. 

 They ended the song by screaming into the mic together, then it was over. The music ended abruptly, and Majima tossed the mic onto the couch without looking away. The energy in the room was strong, like they’d just finished a fight. 

“That was the hottest fuckin’ thing I’ve ever heard,” Majima said, chest heaving as he caught his breath. Kiryu was thinking the same thing. 

“Goro,” Kiryu growled. 

 Majima jumped into his arms, wrapping his legs around Kiryu’s waist as he kissed him. Kiryu held on tight to his slippery satin pants as Majima covered his face with wet kisses. When he moved to Kiryu’s neck, Kiryu walked them forward into the bedroom, deposited Majima on the bed, and climbed on top of him. They rutted against each other in a drunken stupor, till Kiryu slipped the pants off of both of them.

 Majima made a noise somewhere between a laugh and a moan. “Kaz, you better fuck me good tonight, ‘cause that ass is mine tomorrow.”

 Kiryu ran his hand over Majima’s harness. It looked so much better in person than in the photos. He took hold of the front and pulled Majima up off the bed to kiss him again. Majima’s reaction was encouraging. Kiryu pulled them both to their knees, spun him around, then held Majima’s back to his chest. Majima’s head lolled back to rest on his shoulder as Kiryu kissed his neck. Kiryu wrapped his arms around the lithe body in front of him, taking hold of Majima’s cock and stroking it as Majima gasped. 

“Is this good, Goro?” Kiryu asked, “is this what you wanted.”

“Almost,” Majima said, rubbing his ass against Kiryu’s groin. 

 Kiryu hummed and let him go. “Hold the headboard for me.”

 Majima let out another encouraging sound as Kiryu reached out for the large lube bottle by the bed, still on his knees. It didn’t take long to ready his partner, and when Kiryu entered him he wasn’t sure if it was him or Majima who groaned louder. 

“Yes, Kaz,” Majima hissed. He held tight to the metal headboard, and Kiryu let his forehead rest against Majima’s back as he thrust further inside him. “This is, ah, this is what I needed.”

 Soon, Kiryu sped up and gripped the back of the harness. Majima’s back arched, muscles tensing as he gasped. Kiryu wasn’t so drunk that the room was spinning, but that light, hazy feeling mixed with Majima’s moaning and swearing ignited a fire in him. Majima looked to the side, mouth open in ecstasy, and Kiryu didn’t need to ask if he was feeling the same thing. 

“Goro,” Kiryu growled, “fuck.” 

 He couldn’t speak anymore. The tension built, stronger and stronger, as that delicious fire spread from his head to his toes and right to the core. He came loudly, letting go of the harness so he could hold Majima around the waist as he slowed down, breathing heavily. Majima was still clinging to the headboard with white, bandaged knuckles and painted pink fingernails. 

“Let go, Goro.” Kiryu said. Majima put his hands down. He sat back on his heels, still inside Majima, who whimpered shamelessly. “I’ll take care of you.” Kiryu pulled him back, and Majima once more melted against his chest as Kiryu jacked him off. His cock was throbbing under his slick hand. “I love seeing you like this.”

 Majima’s response was another long moan. Kiryu turned his head and they both twisted just far enough to let their lips meet. Majima whimpered into his mouth, his body clenching down hard. Kiryu leaned them both back as far as he could so Majima finished on his own abdomen instead of the bedsheets below. 

 Kiryu held him until his breathing calmed. Only then did he pull out. Majima allowed himself to be placed on the bed, and pointed to a towel on the lower shelf of his nightstand. Kiryu took it and wiped down Majima, then himself.  

 He found two buckles on the side of Majima’s harness, and freed him of it. It had been tight against his skin, and Kiryu kissed over the pink lines the many straps had left behind before Majima grabbed Kiryu into a long open mouthed kiss. 

“I’ll be back in a minute.” Kiryu said, and with slightly shaky legs, he made his way to the bathroom. He returned to see Majima lying where he’d left him on the bed, with his limbs spread and a cigarette in his mouth. He’d opened the window, and a warm breeze carried the familiar sounds of the city into the room. 

“I bet this is how a groupie feels fuckin’ a rock star,” Majima said, stretching his back as he sat up. He passed the pack of smokes he was holding over, and Kiryu lit up as Majima sighed. “It’s a good thing we weren’t in a real karaoke room. I wouldn’t’ve been able to keep my hands off ya.”

 Kiryu laughed. “I wouldn’t’ve stopped you. Thank you, Goro. This has been an unforgettable night.”

“I’ve waited what feels like a hundred years to get you in my bed.” Majima replied. He tapped an ashtray he’d placed on the bed. “I gotta go turn the TV off. Don’t get up.” 

 Kiryu laid back. After some time, Majima joined him in the comfort of the giant bed, still naked, and warm as ever. Majima pulled the covers overtop of them and settled against Kiryu’s shoulder. 

“I love you,” Kiryu said. “That plane ticket was one of the best birthday presents I’ve ever gotten.”

“Anything for you, Kiryu-chan,” Majima said, half-asleep already, “anything.”

Chapter 60: Boys and Their Toys

 The room was dark, but Kiryu could feel movement beside him. He reached out till he found Majima and pulled him back against him. His naked body slid easily against the satin. “Goro,” he murmured. 

“My mouth is dry as hell. I’m gettin’ some water.” 

“But you’re so warm.” Kiryu whispered, still holding him close. 

 Majima chuckled. “Come on, darlin’. Water’ll fight the hangover.”

 Kiryu let him go, but rolled onto Majima’s side of the bed to bask in the residual warmth. Majima returned with a loud yawn. “Here, Kaz. Drink.”

 Still in the dark, Majima took his hand and placed it against a cold glass. Kiryu took a long drink, and handed it back. “Thanks.”

 Majima put the glass down on the end table. “Move over and let me warm ya back up.”

 Kiryu rolled back. Majima laid down against his chest, then pulled the blankets up. “I love you.” Kiryu sighed. 

 Majima made that low, contented sound. “Kiryu-chan’s in my bed and loves me. Nothin’s better than that.”

 Sleep overtook him quickly. When Kiryu woke up again, it was morning, and he was alone. He sat up, stretched, and tried to listen for any sign of Majima, but all he could hear was the distant din of the city below. His watch was on the night stand, and Kiryu was surprised to see that it was almost eight-thirty. He felt an itch, and when he scratched it, he found a post-it note stuck to his chest. 

 

Picking up breakfast

Stay in bed

 

 Kiryu laid back down and stretched. It almost made him feel guilty to lounge in luxury like this. His head felt groggy from last night’s drinking, but it wasn’t bad, and would improve after he’d eaten. He smiled to himself. He could get used to this. 

 With another stretch, Kiryu stood up and looked for his pyjama pants. If Majima was getting him breakfast, the least he could do was go brush his teeth and clean himself up. He went to the bathroom and returned smelling of that really nice cologne. 

 Kiryu hummed the chorus of Machine Gun Kiss as he took a closer look at Majima’s shelves. The baseball signed by him and the kids was displayed next to a mannequin head that wore his snake wrestling mask. Beside that were three more heads, wearing Goromi’s wigs. The yellow one from Shine, the blonde one from last night, and a long black wig he’d never seen before. 

 Kiryu walked to the other side of the room with a smile on his face, thinking about the night before. He probably shouldn’t go searching too deeply though Majima’s things, but he couldn’t help looking into the open closet. There was a lot more clothing in here than in Kiryu’s closet back home. A surprising amount considering how often Majima wore nothing but his jacket and leather pants. Before he could look any closer, he heard a key in the door. He stepped through the bedroom door in time to see Majima walk in with a white box in one hand, and a drink tray in the other. 

“You were supposed to stay in bed.” Majima said with a bright smile.

“This is a different look for you.” Kiryu said. Majima wore black pants with an oversized white shirt that covered his tattoos. A blue wool hat covered most of his hair, and he wore the pink heart sunglasses Kiryu had given Goromi last night. He looked good, but aside from the gloves, he didn’t look like Majima. The lack of beard also contributed. 

“Didn’t I tell ya? It don’t take much to let me walk around incognito.” Majima said. He walked to the kitchen to set the bag down on the counter, then pulled the hat off and threw it across the room. “Too hot for that thing. Don’t know what I was thinkin’.”

 As soon as Majima put down the drinks and sunglasses, Kiryu grabbed him and dipped him into a kiss. Majima moaned loudly into his mouth before finally breaking free with a laugh, his arms around Kiryu’s waist. 

“Aw, Kaz. I love that you’re here.” 

“Me too,” Kiryu said. 

“I got ya a coffee. They make damn good stuff down at this tiny bakery down the street.” He opened the box, which was filled with pastries, both sweet and savoury. The smell made Kiryu’s mouth water. 

“You’re spoiling me again.” 

“And you love it,” Majima said, bumping the side of his hip with his own. They put plates together and Kiryu followed Majima back to the living room and almost ran into him when he stopped in his tracks. 

“Oh, force of habit. I usually eat in front of the TV. We can go sit at the table like adults if ya want.”

“The couch is good. I haven’t lived like a bachelor since before prison, and this way I get to sit closer to you.”

“Good thinkin’, Kiryu-chan.”

 Majima turned on the TV and they watched baseball highlights as they ate their breakfast. Majima looked pleased when Kiryu complimented everything they were eating. 

“How long have you lived here?” Kiryu asked between bites of his last pastry, a strawberry tart. 

“‘Bout four years. I moved in right after I left the clan, but I was never supposed to stay here this long. The goal was to move into a big penthouse at the top of The Hills, but that was before.” Majima paused to take a bite. “We still have the big-ass apartments up there, but we’re gonna use ‘em for family business, visiting big-shots or whatever. The paint should be dry by tomorrow, and we got a decorator comin’ in next week.”

“Heh, when you joined up, did you ever think you’d be working with interior decorators?”

“At sixteen? The only thing I was thinkin’ about back then was the next fight.”

“So not so different from now?”

 Majima chuckled and tapped his eyepatch. “Yep, everything’s exactly the same. No major life changes or anythin’.”

Kiryu reached out and squeezed his thigh. “You know what I mean.”

“Yeah. Worked out okay eventually,” Majima said. He wiped his hands on his pants, then removed the eyepatch. “I don’t think ya would’ve liked me back then.”

“Hmm, I would have been… twelve.”

 Majima made a face. “Gross.”

 Kiryu laughed and changed the subject. “I didn’t hear you leave this morning.”

“You were out cold! I had to make sure you were breathin’,” Majima said, stretching out and putting his feet up on the coffee table. 

“I was comfortable,” Kiryu said. He put his plate down and kissed Majima’s neck. “And satisfied.”

 Majima sighed and took his hand as Kiryu’s lips pressed against his throat. “How’s the hangover?”

“Better now. Give me an hour and I’ll be fine.” Kiryu said. “Do you have to wear a shirt?”

 Kiryu tugged at the hem of his white shirt. Majima pulled it the rest of the way off and threw it towards the bedroom door. “I’ll wear anything ya want, Kaz.”

“I’m so lucky.” Kiryu said against his neck. 

“Drink yer coffee.” Majima said, but didn’t move. 

 They continued to sit on the couch for a while, finishing their coffees, smoking, and talking about baseball. After a while, Majima’s head ended up in Kiryu’s lap. It was such a comfort to talk like this. No interruptions, no time limits, no need to do anything but be together. That feeling lasted till Majima mentioned the next day. 

“So, I told ya before, but I couldn’t get outta this stupid clan meeting tomorrow,” Majima said as Kiryu ran a hand through his hair. “It should only take an hour or two, but you know how the higher-ups are. The older they get, the more they want to talk about the good old days.” Majima rolled his eye. “And I don’t wanna listen to that shit. The best years of their lives are always the worst years of mine.”

 Majima sat up. “That’s how Kashiwagi and I started gettin’ along. We were in a meeting and some old guy wouldn’t stop talkin’ about a raid from back before my time. After ten minutes of stone cold silence, Kashiwagi finally gets loud and says somethin’ like not everyone has such fond memories of that fight. The guy shut right up, but kept lookin’ at his face. Figured that was how he got that scar.”

 Kiryu hadn’t expected to talk about Kashiwagi, but it didn’t hurt as much as he expected. “He never told us anything about his scar. If anyone asked they’d get knocked on their ass.”

“I never asked, and he never asked me about the eye. We went for lunch after that meeting ‘cause he said he was starvin’, and we talked about the one time we fought each other.” Majima smiled. “Ya don’t see that kind of integrity too much anymore. He was a good guy.”

“Yeah,” Kiryu said, “yeah, he was.”

 Majima slung his arm over Kiryu’s shoulder. “Did he ever knock ya on yer ass?”

“Heh, a few times, but not for asking about the scar, just for being an idiot, or for pissing him off when he was hungry. I’m… glad you remember him too.”

 Majima nodded. “And you’re sure you’re okay alone for a few hours tomorrow? I know ya wanted to check in with some people, but I promised Haruka I’d watch your back.”

“I can handle one day in Kamurocho. I should see Date-san, and visit Stardust. Plus, if Komaki knows I’m in town and I don’t go to see him, he’ll be the one to knock me on my ass.”

 Majima chuckled. “Every time I see him he asks about ya.”

“Do you see him often?” Kiryu asked. 

“His little ‘palace’ is in my territory,” Majima replied with a shrug. 

“Speaking of territory, I hear you’ve been fighting with the Florist?”

 Majima stood up and made a loud, exasperated noise. “Nishida’s been runnin’ his mouth again, huh?”

“I asked.” Kiryu said quickly, to keep the poor man out of trouble. 

 Majima’s expression softened. “No ya didn’t. And I ain’t fightin’ with the Florist, just negotiating. It don’t help that he pissed me right the hell off the other day.”

“Because he knows about this place?”

“No, because I found out what he did to my brother.” Majima said, suddenly dead serious. “Did you hear about that? He set up some kind of deathmatch test. Put Saejima through hell.”

“Yeah, I heard.” Kiryu said. Saejima hadn’t said anything about it, but the Colosseum receptionist had given him the rundown not long after it happened. Saejima had refused to kill his opponent, and gave an emotional speech to the bloodthirsty crowd, winning over the Florist. “Goro, sit down.”

“In a sec. I was gonna show ya something, but got distracted. What the hell was I— oh, right.”

 Majima walked into the bedroom. He returned a few minutes later wearing his pyjama bottoms and holding a laminated newspaper clipping. “Check this out.”

 The article was from a Sotenbori paper, dated January 21st, 1987, showcasing the ‘new and improved’ Grand Cabaret. The accompanying black and white photo showed three pretty, smiling girls on the balcony, all with arms wide in welcome. On either side of the girls were two men, one clearly a waiter, but the other a man wore a tuxedo, and had a ponytail and an eyepatch. 

“You look so young.” Kiryu said. And different. The suit looked too big for him, and even in the low quality photo, it was clear that his cheeks were hollow.

“Yeah, I woulda been uh, twenty-two I think? Couldn’t even grow a full beard yet.” Majima ran his hand over the shadow of where his goatee used to be. 

 Kiryu looked back at the photo. The young Majima wore what Kiryu could now recognize as a forced smile. “You don’t look happy.”

“That’s about as happy as I got back then. This might be the only pic I have from that part of my life, and only ‘cause Nishida found it a few years ago.”

“You look… cute. Malnourished, but cute,” Kiryu said, which made Majima laugh. He was still standing next to the couch. Kiryu put the paper on the table and held his hand out. Majima took it and allowed himself to be brought down into Kiryu’s lap. “I wish I could have saved you from all of that.”

“Yeah? I woulda been real pissed if you’d driven a truck into The Grand.”

 Kiryu shook his head. “Why is that your first idea?” 

 Majima snickered. “We should watch a movie today.”

“Sure.” Kiryu replied, touching the snake on Majima’s arm. 

“And I got the perfect one.”

“Whatever you want.”

 Majima shoved his arm. “Stop bein’ so accommodatin’ and ask which movie.”

“Which movie should we watch, Goro?” Kiryu said, letting Majima stand back up. 

 Majima picked up a DVD near the TV and tossed it to Kiryu. It had a sticker for Beam Video Rentals in the corner. Kiryu turned it right side up to read the title, and his eyes widened. Passionate Manly Bathhouse Battle! He looked up at Majima’s grinning face. 

“Heh, I never did get to see this.” Kiryu said. 

 Majima laughed. “Nobody did, I stole it the day we had our fight about it.”

 Kiryu stood up and held Majima’s face in his hands. His eye shone in amusement, and Kiryu couldn’t help kissing him. “I really did just want to watch an action movie that day.”

“I know. That’s why it was so funny,” Majima said. “Told myself I wouldn’t watch it without ya. Then you went and moved to Okinawa, so I watched it on my own. There are some pretty good fight scenes, there’s just a lotta passionate, manly sex afterwards.”

 Kiryu kissed him again. “Heh, then it’s a good thing you stole it. I might’ve watched it in the back of Serena.” 

“Do ya think you’d have watched the whole thing? If you were alone?”

 Kiryu considered. He probably would have been way too embarrassed to finish it, but maybe, if he really was alone…

“Doesn’t matter,” Majima said, “ya won’t be watchin’ it alone today.” He took Kiryu’s hand and led the way to the bedroom. “Come on. I got more to show ya.”

 They stopped in front of the closet, and Majima kneeled down. “Remember what I told ya about all those toys?”

“Heh, yeah.”

 Majima started pulling boxes out of the closet and throwing them over his shoulder. Kiryu sat down on the floor to examine the items, most of which he’d never even heard of before. 

 When Majima had found them all he spun around and sat cross-legged on the floor, and like two kids on Christmas morning, they looked through the pile of toys. 

“What’s this? It looks like rubber binoculars.” Kiryu said, holding up an item wrapped in plastic that didn’t have any instructions. 

 Majima fell backwards laughing, when he sat back up he took the item from Kiryu. “Yep, binoculars. It’s for birdwatchin’.”

 He took it out of the plastic and held it to his face, leaning forward to get a close look at Kiryu’s crotch. Kiryu took it from him and pushed him away. “Oh, I get it. It’s for uh, two at once.” He stuck his finger inside the silicone item. It would allow two cocks to be held together inside. “That’s… yeah, I’d like to try that.”

 Majima touched his cheek fondly, and Kiryu knew he had to be blushing. Majima held up a pair of black fuzzy handcuffs. “How ‘bout these?”

“F-for me?” Kiryu asked. It felt silly how flustered he already felt.

“Yeah, unless it’s too much like a jail thing,” Majima said. “Or, if that’s what you’re into, I could do the whole officer routine on ya. I haven’t given ya a good pat down in years.”

 Kiryu touched the soft handcuffs. “I don’t know about the officer part, but yeah, I think I like these too.”

 Majima nodded seriously. “Great. And this?”

 Kiryu might not have a great knowledge of sex toys, but he wasn’t so innocent that he couldn’t recognize a butt plug. A large butt plug. “I, uh, yeah, maybe.”

 Majima put it down and dug through the pile. “Hang on, I think there’s a smaller one here somewhere. Ooh, and it’s pink.”

 He held up the smaller plug and passed it over. “Okay. This looks better.”

“Great.” Majima said, setting it down with the other two toys. 

 They continued, discussing each one. There were certain things Kiryu knew wasn’t into. He made a face when Majima explained nipple clamps, and had to laugh when he picked up something called a penis cage, but there was a lot that he did want to try. Fifteen minutes later they had a ‘yes’ pile, a ‘maybe’, and only a small ‘no’ pile. 

“This is all… wow, I’m lucky.” Kiryu said. He wasn’t blushing anymore, but he couldn’t stop smiling. Majima inched forward so he could kiss him. 

“I know we got shit to do in the next couple of days, so we ain’t gettin’ through all this even with all that dragon stamina of yours. Let’s call it incentive for coming back to visit me.”

“I don’t need any of this to want to be here. I just need you.” Kiryu said. A second later he was tackled backwards. 

 They kissed on the cold wood floor, and Kiryu did feel extremely lucky. Majima might have joked through most of their conversation, but he did listen closely to Kiryu, and aside from some teasing, didn’t try to convince him into anything he didn’t want to do. They rolled together, and onto a riding crop from the ‘maybe’ pile. Majima grunted and threw it like a javelin back into the closet. 

“You’re fun, Kazzy,” Majima said, “and you’re up for a lot more than I thought.”

“I like trying things with you. I wish I could stay here longer.”

“Eventually we’ll have all this at our fingertips whenever we want. Maybe by the time that happens we’ll get a big safe where we can keep ‘em locked away.”

“That’s a nice thought.” Kiryu said. They rolled again so Majima was on top. “Is there anything you wanted to try today?”

“Well, we gotta watch that movie tonight, and if it’s as good as I remember, that should lead to some fuckin’.”

 Kiryu bucked his hips. Majima laughed and kissed his chin. “And I keep thinkin’ ‘bout how those pretty black handcuffs match my headboard.” he moved to kiss Kiryu’s cheek, scraping his stubbly face against kiryu’s skin. 

“You said these were all the unopened toys. Were there ones that you have opened?” he asked. 

“A few. We’re diving deep into the personal shit today, aren’t we?” 

“Heh, yeah,” Kiryu said, still on the floor under Majima. “After all our phone calls, I want a better picture of what you’re doing in here without me.”

“You’re gonna melt my heart.”

“Let me up first. After that giant bed, there’s no way I’m having sex on the floor.”

“Don’t say it like that, Kazzy. It sounds like a challenge.”

 Despite his words, Majima rolled off him and started throwing the ‘no’ boxes back in the closet, placing the ones they’d discussed on his dresser. “Go lie down, darlin’, and we’ll have some fun.” he said when Kiryu tried to help. 

 Moments later, Kiryu was once again enjoying the lush comfort of the bed. Majima walked slowly around him, closing the door, then the window, shutting out everything outside of the room. Kiryu took time to admire the way his pants had slid low on his hips while he walked. The drawstring wasn’t tied, and it looked like they could fall down any second. 

“Hands above your head, Kaz.” 

 Kiryu raised his arms, and looked up at Majima’s amused face. He ran his fingers up Kiryu’s arm, then handcuffed Kiryu’s wrists to the headboard. “For a stubborn guy, you’re real good at doin’ what you’re told.”

“As long as I like what I’m being told to do.”

 Majima sat down next to where Kiryu lay on his back, running his hands down his arms and over Kiryu’s chest. “Is that how it works? All I have to do is give ya what ya want?”

“You’re teasing me.” Kiryu said.

 Majima leaned over him, bringing his lips close to Kiryu’s. “I haven’t even started, Kiryu-chan.” 

 When Kiryu tried to kiss him, Majima pulled away. When he strained his neck to get at him. Majima pulled back further, pressing a hand to his chest to keep him down. Kiryu couldn’t tell if this was an order or a challenge, and Majima’s devilish smile wasn’t easy to interpret. “Goro?”

“Don’t worry, gorgeous. I’m gonna give ya everything you want.”

“I want you to take off your pants,” Kiryu said. 

 Majima laughed and hugged him around the waist, pressing his head to Kiryu’s stomach. “Soon. Goromi was supposed to do the teasing, ya know.” he said, trailing a finger around Kiryu’s right pec, closer and closer to the nipple without touching it. “Shoulda had her pay ya a visit today instead of yesterday. Seein’ ya walk in here last night made it impossible to focus.”

“I wouldn’t change a thing,” Kiryu said. Majima looked up at him. His unshaven chin scratched Kiryu’s skin and he grimaced. “Maybe that.”

 Majima laughed again and kissed his chest, licking closer to his nipple, but right before his tongue touched it, he stopped. Kiryu could feel his hot breath on his skin, and that sent blood rushing south as he tested the strength of the handcuffs. Majima’s face moved over to his other nipple, but this time he kissed it with no buildup, sucking hard. 

“Ah!” Kiryu gasped. 

 Majima travelled over every part of his body, slowly building anticipation, then surprising him with touch and kisses over everywhere except his lips or between his legs. He sucked on Kiryu’s fingers, pulled his pants down slowly till Kiryu was naked, then changed course and kissed his neck. He hadn’t teased him beyond what Kiryu could handle, but it was getting close. Majima lavished kisses over his thighs, and Kiryu felt like he was finally about to be touched where he wanted most. He angled his hips closer, then Majima abruptly stood up. 

“Goro.” Kiryu said in a low voice. If he left the room, Kiryu knew he’d break either the cuffs or the headboard, but instead Majima opened the drawer of his nightstand and took out a short rubbery silicone tube that resembled a thick wristband. He walked around the bed, laid next to Kiryu, then squeezed lube into the tube. 

“You wanted to see what I did alone in here, right?”

 Kiryu hesitated. Majima already had him so worked up, and the idea of waiting longer wouldn’t be easy. As Majima removed his pants, Kiryu decided he could handle waiting just a little longer. He nodded, and Majima smiled. 

“This ain’t about hurtin’ you, Kaz,” Majima said, letting their legs touch. “Just a little delayed gratification.”

“A little?” Kiryu asked. 

 Majima chuckled and took himself in his hand, mouthing and licking at Kiryu’s shoulder till he was fully hard. Kiryu turned slightly, needing to feel more of Majima’s hot skin against his own. Majima pulled away, but left their legs touching. Their eyes met, and Majima’s smile was unexpectedly warm. 

“You’re doin’ so good, Kaz,” Majima said as he used the toy on himself. The tube was open at both ends, and Majima’s breath caught as he slid it up and down, over and over again. 

 Kiryu grit his teeth. Watching this was hot, but he was aching to be touched, or kissed, or anything. It was finally too much. He needed more, and he needed it now. “Goro,” Kiryu whispered, rubbing his leg against Majima’s, “please.”

 That was all it took. Majima kissed him hard on the lips, and Kiryu’s body reacted like he’d thrown a match on gasoline. He turned on his side and grabbed Majima, holding him close, touching every part of his body he could reach without breaking the kiss, grinding his body against him. Majima made a noise of surprise, then moaned loudly, groping at both of them till suddenly that tube thing was around Kiryu’s cock. He shuddered as Majima stroked him with it and oh, oh, it felt good. He had to break the kiss to gasp for air, and only then did he remember that he’d been wearing handcuffs. He paused to look quizzically at the broken chain, then up to make sure the headboard was okay. 

 Majima grabbed his face with his free hand. “It’s fine, don’t worry ‘bout it.” He kissed him again, then Majima was sliding down his body till his lips parted and sucked him inside. 

 The silicone tube was still around the base of his cock, and using that and his mouth, Majima set a fast rhythm. Kiryu gasped and held his hair, writhing as the fire inside him burned strong. He was still on his side, and Majima’s other hand pushed his leg up so he could touch his thigh, his balls, his ass. Majima’s hand was slippery from the abundance of lube he’d used, and as he moaned around Kiryu’s cock, he stroked his hole, pushing a finger in. Kiryu didn’t have the brain power to comprehend how he was able to go so slow and fast at the same time, all he could do was ride the intense rush of pleasure. 

“Fuck, that’s so good.” Kiryu said.

 Majima hummed his approval, and Kiryu couldn’t hold on any more. He came loudly, his fingers still in Majima’s hair. Majima licked every drop away till Kiryu touched his shoulder to stop him. 

“Come up here,” Kiryu started, and pulled him back up. “Put that thing on.”

 Majima nodded. He carefully took the silicone tube off of Kiryu’s softening cock and put it back on his own. Kiryu pushed him onto his back and took hold. Majima was rock hard, and Kiryu stroked him firmly with the toy as he kissed him hard on the lips again, pressing him down into the bed. 

 Before long, Majima was a shaking mess underneath him. He whimpered against Kiryu’s lips and then gasped as his release overtook him, splattering both their bodies in hot spurts of cum. Kiryu rolled off of him and onto his back, so they both lay face up, staring at the ceiling. 

 After they both stopped breathing so hard, Majima touched Kiryu’s forearm, raising it up to inspect the broken handcuff. Their eyes met, and almost the same time, they started laughing. Joyful, loud laughter that bordered on delirium. 

“I love you.” Majima said, when they finally calmed down. “I fuckin’ love you.”

“I love you too, Goro.” Kiryu replied. 

Notes:

I don’t know how regular updates are going to be in December, but they will come eventually. There’s still a lot more to this story, and I’m still really enjoying writing it. Thank you all so much for reading and for sticking with it for this long.

Chapter 61: Passionate Manly Bathhouse Battle!

 The hours of the day passed by like a pleasant dream. The happy couple squeezed into Majima’s shower, and managed to get each other clean despite the cramped space.

 Afterwards, Kiryu called to check in with Morning Glory, then joined Majima on the couch, where they watched daytime TV, made lunch together, and laughed with each other until late in the afternoon. Majima had no shortage of wild stories, and being in Kamurocho reminded Kiryu of all his own strange adventures.

“There was really some guy goin’ around dressed like you? I shoulda known about that!” Majima said. They stood in the kitchen as he opened a beer for each of them. 

“He was an idiot, and I didn’t even break a sweat fighting him. I’m glad for his sake that he never tried anything with you,” Kiryu replied. He went to sip from the bottle, but Majima stopped him and pulled two frosty mugs from the freezer. 

“Tch, if I’d seen the grey suit and got my hopes up, I woulda sliced him to shreds when I saw he wasn’t you. That woulda taught him a lesson.”

“Heh, trust me. He learned his lesson.”

 They hit their glasses together and drank, still wearing nothing but pyjama pants. It was almost too cold in the air conditioned apartment for Kiryu, who was accustomed to Okinawa, but Majima’s constant closeness kept him warm. They settled back on the couch, Majima leaning against him with his legs up on the armrest, and Kiryu’s arm around him.

“Are ya still okay with ordering in for dinner? We could go and get somethin’ if ya want.”

“I’m happy staying in tonight. Like you said, we’ve got shit to do in the next couple of days.” Kiryu said, then scowled when he felt Majima laugh. “It’s not that funny when I swear, is it?”

“Only sometimes,” Majima said, “sometimes it’s hot as hell.”

 Kiryu squeezed his shoulder, holding him tight as they drank. “I’m having a great time.”

“That makes me real happy, Kaz,” Majima said and sighed. “I feel ten times better when I gotcha close to me.”

“Yeah.”

“Did ya call up yer pals for tomorrow or are ya just gonna show up?”

“I’ll just go to Serena and see who I can find.” Kiryu said. That’s what he usually did when he was in town.

“I’ll call ya when I’m done.” Majima said, and licked condensation off the side of his glass. Kiryu watched the motion of his tongue closely, “I’ll be at the Tower, so I won’t be far, and if ya don’t pick up yer phone, I’ll track ya down the old fashioned way.”

 “What’s the old fashioned way? Hiding in a pylon till I walk by?”

 Majima reached up and poked Kiryu in the face. “Maybe, but I don’t wanna draw too much attention to ya. Maybe I’ll drag ya back here as fast as I can.”

“Heh, do you really think I’d let you drag me around?” Kiryu asked, swatting Majima’s hand away after being poked on the cheek again. 

“I think it’d be fun to try,” Majima replied. 

 Kiryu took his beer and put both glasses down on the coffee table, then pulled Majima into his lap and kissed him to wipe the smirk off his face. “When are we watching that movie?”

“Anytime you want, darlin’.”

“Now.”

 

~

 Steam filled the bathhouse, and the twang of an unseen shamisen played in the background. The protagonist, a hero with long hair swept into an unkempt knot at the back of his head, spoke with his informant. Both men were buff, with the chiseled, artificially perfect features usually found on adult film stars. They sat together, closer than any two men would usually sit in a public bath. 

 A third man entered the room. He was tall, blond, and shaped like a bodybuilder. They exchanged words, and it was clear that the blond man was about to start a fight. 

“That steam really keeps ya from gettin’ a good look, huh?” Majima said from the couch. He was draped over Kiryu again, his back across Kiryu’s thighs and his head on the armrest, face turned to the right so he could see the screen. Kiryu liked the view from where he sat, and kept an hand on top of Majima’s abs.

 The fight started, and Kiryu’s attention was turned back to the TV, “Does this feel familiar to you?”

“What d’ya mean?”

 Kiryu frowned. The two men on screen glared at each other, then the hero went on the offensive. “I don’t know. I feel like I’ve had a dream about this or something.”

 The characters grappled and grunted, then the hero slapped the blond man’s ass. Majima barked out a laugh. “Musta been a good dream.”

“It wasn’t like that. And that wasn’t sexy, it was a sumo move.” 

“Ya say that like it can’t be both.” 

 When Kiryu didn’t answer, Majima turned his head to look up at him. Kiryu grabbed his hand before he could be poked in the face again, drawing a shrill laugh. Kiryu, still trying to pay attention to the screen, kept hold of his wrist. Majima kept laughing, and when he tried to wrench his hand free, Kiryu leaned all his weight forward onto Majima’s torso. 

“Kiryu-chan!” Majima wheezed, and curled his knees up into Kiryu’s side. 

“Shh, I’m watching this,” Kiryu said, trying not to smile as Majima struggled under him. “You’re going to hit the coffee table.”

“Who cares. It’s an… old table,” Majima growled, legs flailing. 

 Kiryu managed to gather his long limbs up under his arms, so Majima sat, bridal style, on his lap, looking confused as to how he ended up in that position. Kiryu couldn’t hold back a smile, and Majima took the opportunity to wriggle around and straddle him. He bit Kiryu’s earlobe with a growl. “There, Kazzy. Watch yer movie.”

 Kiryu kissed the top of his shoulder and continued to watch. The two fighters had somehow settled their feud, and were now dressed and drinking together in a room filled with pillows that looked too modern compared to the rest of the movie. Kiryu rubbed Majima’s bare back as Majima licked his skin as if Kiryu were an ice cream cone. He was about to tell Majima that, when the blond man onscreen reached out, took hold of the hero’s long hair, and pulled his head down to his groin. 

“Oh,” Kiryu said, surprised. 

 Majima chuckled. “What am I missin’?”

“Look.”

“Nah,” Majima said in his ear, “describe it to me.”

“I… hmm,” Kiryu said. He didn’t want to do that, but he really didn’t want Majima to stop what he was doing. “The blond guy has the long haired guy’s head in his lap.”

“Yeah? Has he still got him by the hair?” Majima asked.

 Kiryu shifted in his seat as Majima’s tongue followed along Kiryu’s pulse point down his neck. “No, now he’s leaning back, and the long haired guy is, uh, touching himself.”

“Sounds hot,” Majima said, as his hand travelled up the back of Kiryu’s neck to lightly pull his hair. 

“Heh, you’re hot,” Kiryu replied. His breath hitched and he held Majima closer. The thin fabric of their pyjama pants was the next best thing to being skin to skin, and he could feel Majima’s growing arousal against his own. Kiryu closed his eyes as his head was pulled back so Majima could kiss his chin and lick along his jaw, which he hadn’t bothered shaving. “Goro,” he sighed. 

 Majima kissed him hard, then let go of his hair. “Now what’s happenin’, Kaz?”

 Kiryu looked over Majima’s shoulder again, “Uh… still the same thing, except the blond guy is naked. I don’t know when that happened.”

“How’s he look?” Majima asked, and rocked his hips forward. 

“Not as good as you.”

“Good answer,” Majima chuckled. “Ya don’t like this describing, do ya?”

“No.”

“Lemme take a turn, then.”

“Y-you want me to sit in your lap?” Kiryu asked.

Majima pulled back and raised an eyebrow. “Don’t get nervous. There’s a thousand positions I want ya in. That’s just one of ‘em.”

“No, I can do it,” Kiryu said. He shifted to the side and let Majima sit down on the couch, then swung his leg over. Majima helped pull him along, till Kiryu was fully straddled over him. It felt a little awkward, but the couch was large enough that it wasn’t as precarious as Kiryu expected, and Majima looked so pleased that it made him smile. 

“Ya alright, Kaz?” Majima asked. His hands felt along the outsides of Kiryu’s thighs. “You look damn good.”

“Aren’t you supposed to be telling me what’s going on in the movie?”

 Majima wrapped his arms tightly around Kiryu’s back and rested his chin on his shoulder. “Ehh, the guy’s just walkin’ through town lookin’ pissed off. Guess I’ll have to focus on what’s in front of me if I wanna see somethin’ sexy.”

 Majima’s hand dipped below Kiryu’s waistband to squeeze his ass. Kiryu tried to do what Majima had done, and turned his attention to his neck as he rolled his hips forward. Majima hummed his approval. Like so many things he’d tried with Majima, what Kiryu expected to feel from sitting on another man’s lap was far different than the actual experience. There was power in this, just a different kind than what he was used to feeling. 

“You make me feel strong,” he whispered in Majima’s ear. 

“Ya don’t need my help for that, Kiryu-chan,” Majima said, his voice low, “there’s another fight scene comin’ up soon, and as much as I like this, I think it’s a good one, and I don’t want ya missin’ it.”

“Where do you want me?”

 Majima looked to the left. “See that big  leather pillow on the chair? Stick it on the floor and kneel on it. If ya lean over the ottoman thing in front there, then I can get behind ya. That way we can both watch while I fuck yer brains out.”

 Kiryu felt another surge of arousal and kissed him, holding Majima’s face still to avoid the scraping of his stubble as Majima sucked on his tongue. 

“You’ve thought this through.” 

“I got countless fantasies when it comes to you and me,” Majima replied. “C’mon, move that gorgeous ass.”

 Kiryu stood, and Majima helped him keep his balance, then they both arranged the furniture. 

 By the time the fight scene started, Kiryu was grasping the ottoman hard as Majima finished readying him. With a long moan, Majima pushed inside from behind him, just as the two fighters on-screen crossed swords. This time there was no bathhouse or nudity, just an old fashioned katana fight between the hero, and another large man who looked a little like Saejima if he’d buzzed his long hair. There didn’t even seem to be anything sexual about this fight, but every clash of the blades turned him on even more, as Majima soon matched his thrusts to the rhythm of the fight. 

“Best way to watch a movie,” Majima said under his breath. “So fuckin’ hot.”

 He pressed his palms over Kiryu’s back, then reached around to squeeze his pecs. Kiryu tried to keep his breathing under control as Majima’s fingers brushed against his nipples and dug into the muscles around them. 

“Ah! Keep.. keep doing that,” Kiryu said.

 A third samurai appeared on screen and began taunting the hero. He had a scar across one eye, and his clothing was spattered with blood. Majima’s hands kept moving as he drove into him with long, slow thrusts now that the characters were just talking. Kiryu put his head down on the ottoman in front of him.

“Keep watchin’, Kaz.”

“Uh huh.” Kiryu’s hands had a death grip on the ottoman, and he turned his face in time to see the hero start another fight with the third man. This fight was shorter, but was charged with eroticism. The man with the scarred eye ended up on top of the hero, just as Majima took Kiryu’s cock in his hand. “Fuck.” Kiryu pushed backwards, further impaling himself onto Majima’s cock. 

 Majima made a noise, then hissed a “yes” when Kiryu repeated the motion.

 The next time he looked at the screen, he watched the hero trudge back to the bathhouse after the fight. It cut to a shot of the steam filled bath, and the hero shaking out his hair. Majima moaned and roughly pulled Kiryu’s hips back. 

“Yeah,” Kiryu said, “yeah, just like that.”

 Majima’s response was a whimper, but his grip stayed firm. Kiryu had to close his eyes. His whole body shuddered as his body grew closer to climax. 

So that’s where you’re hidin’. We got unfinished business.

 For a split second, Kiryu thought Majima was speaking, but when he opened his eyes, the samurai with the scar had appeared. 

“Fuck, Kaz. Ya feel so fuckin’ good.” 

 That was Majima. Their bodies slammed together as another battle began on the TV, this time inside the bath itself. Water splashed as the characters collided in yet another surprisingly impressive display of fight choreography. A spray of water caught the lamp light, and as the steam cleared, the two warriors were suddenly locked in an intense kiss.

 Kiryu was so close. Looking between the TV and Majima behind him spurned him on. He grabbed a clean towel from the coffee table, and held it to himself as he came, lurching his hips backwards. Majima stayed in place, his breathing ragged as Kiryu kept moving his hips as his orgasm ripped through him.

“You can stay here a little longer, can’t ya, Kiryu-chan?” Majima’s voice was low and breathy. Kiryu nodded, and moaned when Majima withdrew. “I’m gonna cum all over your back.”

 Kiryu felt dazed, but nodded and held his position. He looked back to watch Majima pull rapidly at his cock. His mouth hung open, and the noises he made were obscenely sexy, and blended in with the sound of the film as the two combatants were now in a similar position. Majima growled out Kiryu’s name as he reached his climax, then collapsed to his side on the floor. Kiryu reached for his hand and held it as they both recovered. 

 They stared at each other till a loud noise on screen made them both look over. The fighters had also finished. The hero lay gasping against the side of the bath. The other man with the eye scar jumped out and touched his chin, pulling the hero’s face up. 

“See ya around,” he said, and the scene faded to black. 

 Majima grunted as he pulled himself off the floor and took the towel to wipe off Kiryu’s back. “Good movie,” he said with a wild laugh. 

“There wasn’t a lot of plot, was there?” Kiryu asked. 

“You obviously haven’t watched a lot of porn,” Majima said as Kiryu pulled his pants up.

“It’s been a while, but I have seen some,” Kiryu said defensively. Majima helped him to his feet and kissed his shoulder one more time. “Never with anyone else in the room, though. That was… I can’t think of the words, but that was great.”

 They soon collapsed back on the couch to rest. After spending a while half-asleep dosing together, they ordered a large dinner and ate it while laughing at an old kung-fu movie that had better fight choreography, but also had very little in the way of a plot. Later, Majima caught Kiryu eyeing the karaoke machine again, so they sang a few more songs before they finally laid down together in bed, naked and happy, wrapped up in layers of satin bedding. 

“I’ve never had a day like this, lounging around, having sex, and eating food I didn’t have to make,” Kiryu said as Majima nestled against his shoulder. “A hell of a day.”

“Yeah. It’s finally sinkin’ in for me that we’re actually together and I’m not just dreamin’.”

“Heh, and it only took what, two-and-a-half months?” Kiryu asked. He took Majima’s hand and slowly kissed his fingers one by one.

“Hmm, I’ll need to do somethin’ special for three months.” Majima said, more to himself than to Kiryu. 

“No you don’t, but if you could come over in September that would be nice.”

“Three months is a big deal, Kiryu-chan. That’s serious relationship type-shit!”

 Kiryu still held his hand, and moved it so he could kiss Majima’s wrist. “This isn’t a serious relationship already?”

“Oh It is, but if we make it to three months and I haven’t fucked things up, that’ll be worth celebrating.” 

“You won’t fuck things up. I won’t let you,” Kiryu said. Majima didn’t laugh at him for swearing this time, so Kiryu turned his head to make sure he was okay. 

 Even with Majima’s dark curtains, the room wasn’t completely dark thanks to the bright city lights. Majima didn’t look upset, just deep in concentration. “I might make ya promise me that,” he said, and forced a laugh. 

“Goro,” Kiryu said, touching his face, “I won’t let you go. Not without one hell of a fight.”

“One hell of a fight, huh. I like the sound of that.”

“Heh, shut up,” Kiryu said, and kissed Majima on the lips, smothering the wild laugh he’d grown to love.

 They said goodnight to each other, but  spent another hour talking before Majima fell asleep in his arms. As Kiryu listened to him breathe, he formulated a plan for the next day. Once he’d settled on what he wanted to do, he closed his eyes and fell right to sleep.

Notes:

Happy Holidays, dear readers. Sorry for the late update, I was working on a gift exchange Christmas fic called One Single Night which is now up.

Now I can give No Secrets my full attention again, but updates will probably be every two weeks or so for a while. Thanks as always for reading!

Chapter 62: Making The Rounds

 Kiryu took a ladder down into the sewers. He wasn’t looking forward to the conversation he was about to have, but he was determined to get it done. 

 Leaving Majima’s apartment that morning hadn’t been easy. Kiryu awoke with a warm body coiled around him, which counteracted the air conditioner that Majima apparently kept running at all hours. 

 After they ate a healthier breakfast than the pastries from day before, Majima insisted that Kiryu help him choose between two nearly identical pairs of leather pants. They dressed together, and after some deliberation, Kiryu decided to leave his grey suit jacket behind and roll up the sleeves of one of the red dress shirts he’d brought with him. They were nearly ready to go when Majima turned and pushed him back down onto the bed. 

 Kiryu smiled as he climbed up another ladder. It had been a good morning, and that kept his motivation high as he walked through Purgatory. 

 He was greeted at the doors to the big house, and made his way into the boss’s office, past the stone columns and up to the lone desk in front of the wall of fish tanks. Sitting in front of Kiryu was the Florist of Sai. He didn’t look surprised to see him. He never did. 

“There you are, Kiryu. I would’ve sent flowers to New Serena but you never showed up there.”

 At another time, Kiryu might not have picked up on the implication of his words, but he’d been preparing for this conversation. 

“I’m heading there after this. I hope the city’s been calm since I left.”

“Kiryu,” the Florist said, leaning back in his chair, “let’s not pretend you’re here to catch up.”

“Fine by me. I’m here to talk about Saejima Taiga.”

“Saejima? Not the name I was expecting, but all right.”

 Kiryu kept his face neutral, but he bristled inside. He told himself to remain calm. “When Saejima came here for information, you had him fight in the arena. Afterwards, I hear he gave a speech.”

 The florist lit a cigar and slowly nodded, “He put on quite a show.”

“I want a recording of that speech.”

“A recording?” The Florist let out a raspy laugh. “What makes you think I record the fights, after all the trouble we go through to keep cell phones out of the coliseum?”

“Call it a hunch.”

“And what do you, and by you I mean Majima Goro, want with that recording?”

 Kiryu crossed his arms over his chest. “Majima-san doesn’t know I’m here. This has nothing to do with him.”

“Really?” the Florist asked flatly. He picked up a file off his desk. “You left the airport on Tuesday at 6:52pm with the captain of the Majima Family, and only left the… apartment where you’re staying… at 10:38am today. I’m sure there was some time to talk in those hours.”

 Kiryu’s stomach clenched again but he kept his emotions in check. He expected his, and he had stick to his plan. “How’s Takashi? Is he still getting married in October?”

 Shock flashed across the Florist’s face. “How about that, Kiryu. You’re finally learning how to barter with information.”

“I’m not bartering with anything, I’m reminding you of how discreet I can be,” Kiryu said. “I won’t go back on my word, and whether or not you’ve told your son the truth isn’t any of my business. I hope I can trust you to stay out of mine.”

 The Florist stared at him for a moment, and Kiryu didn’t look away. Any embarrassment he might have felt had been pushed aside by the need to protect what was his. 

“Discretion is a large part of my job,” the Florist said, and paused again. “I like you, Kiryu, I always have. I’d have shown anyone else the door by now, but I’ll hear you out. Why do you want that recording?”

“Saejima could be facing a prison sentence soon. From what I’ve heard, he expressed mercy and remorse in that speech. If a recording of it finds its way into his lawyers hands, it could help his case,” Kiryu said, leaning a hand against the desk. “You’ve met him. He’s a good man, and he’s spent enough of his life behind bars.”

 Once again, the Florist took his time before answering. Kiryu’s gaze never faltered. This wasn’t the kind of battle he was used to, but much like a physical fight, he knew he couldn’t show any sign of weakness. 

“The police have been wanting to shut this place down for years.” the Florist finally said, “I won’t just hand them footage of the arena.”

“An audio tape then,” Kiryu replied, “or CD, however it works nowadays.”

“And how do I know that Saejima won’t turn around and sell this place out?”

 Kiryu hadn’t considered that. “I don’t think he would, but I’ll talk to him and make sure he doesn’t.”

 The Florist puffed on his cigar. “You haven’t sent in your RSVP to the wedding. I know Takashi wants you there.”

“I haven’t decided if I can make it yet,” Kiryu said. Takashi had invited him and a guest. He’d thought about it, but was leaning towards refusing the invitation. 

“It’s shaping up pretty nicely. Takashi… he’s invited me, he even wants me to give a speech at lunch after the ceremony because I helped him out. He hasn’t said a word about who we are to each other, but I know he knows.” He took another puff and looked almost proud. “He’s smartened up over the years.”

“Yeah, he has,” Kiryu agreed. 

“It would help to have some backup, given how many yakuza from the bride’s side will be there.”

“So take Date-san with you,” Kiryu said. 

 The Florist shook his head and smiled. “I’ll make you a deal, Kiryu. Come to the wedding, make sure Takashi doesn’t make a fool of himself, and keep the yakuza from pestering me. Do that for me, and I’ll get you that audio file. I’ll even spring for plane tickets for you and your little girl.”

 Kiryu considered the offer. “There doesn’t seem like much of a downside for me.”

“As I said, I like you, Kiryu. Anyone else would have to do a lot more. Also, from what I understand, Majima knows the father of the bride and has also been invited. If any kind of commotion were to break out at this wedding, I’d be very disappointed.”

 There it was. Kiryu wondered if Majima had threatened to disrupt the wedding during his recent talks with the Florist. He wasn’t sure if he should speak on Majima’s behalf, but he also didn’t want Takashi’s wedding ruined. “I can make sure the wedding goes smoothly, but that’s all. Your negotiations with Majima-san don’t have anything to do with me.”

 The Florist took another long puff from his cigar as he appraised Kiryu. “This push he’s been making on all fronts for more money, I wasn’t sure what to make of it, but it’s starting to make sense if he’s doing it for you.”

“I’m a civilian. I haven’t asked him for anything, and what he does with his business is separate from our friendship,” Kiryu said, stressing the last word. He wasn’t about to admit to anything that hadn’t been said out loud. 

 The Florist snorted, “Spoken like a mob wife.”

 Kiryu narrowed his eyes. “This conversation is over.”

 He started to turn but paused when the Florist chuckled. “That was a joke, Kiryu. I should have that recording ready in a day or two, and someone will be in touch about the tickets for the wedding. Your phone number hasn’t changed, has it?”

 Kiryu’s shoulders relaxed, “It hasn’t. I’m surprised you had to ask.”

“You don’t have to worry, Kiryu,” the Florist said from amid a cloud of cigar smoke, “you can count on my discretion, for your sake, not his. I won’t let go of my money without a fight, but I’ll leave you out of it. You have my word on that.”

“Thank you,” Kiryu said, with the slightest of bows. 

“You’re missed in the arena,” the Florist added, “anytime you want to pay the coliseum a visit, we’ll be here.”

“Heh, unless your staff goes on strike.”

 The Florist’s expression soured, and Kiryu realized his mistake too late. Him and his stupid mouth. “The negotiations are none of your business, eh?”

“I heard a rumour,” Kiryu said quickly.

“Oh? Did you also hear the rumour last year about my employee who was planning on selling a DVD featuring your ten best fights with Majima? I heard the one where he wears a little pink dress is especially good.”

 Kiryu resisted the urge to look away. “No, I didn’t hear that rumour.”

“Of course you didn’t. I put a stop to that before it left this room,” the Florist leaned forward, “because I like you, Kiryu, and as I said, discretion is part of my job.”

“I appreciate that, Florist,” Kiryu said stiffly.

 The Florist laughed till he coughed, and extinguished his cigar. “Now go. I have things to do. Give my regards to Date. I can’t imagine we’ll be seeing much of each other now that he’s the one back on the force.”

“I will,” Kiryu said, he moved to leave once more but hesitated. “You don’t…uh, still have that fight DVD, do you?”

~

 

 Master Komaki was equally unsurprised by Kiryu’s arrival. This time it was a disciple of the Komaki school who had spotted him on his way to Purgatory, instead of a city-wide system of hidden cameras. They sat down in the dojo together and Kiryu found that it was a lot easier to take it easy and talk without a life-threatening crisis to deal with.

“And you haven’t lost my handbooks this time?” Komaki asked. 

“No, they’re safe and sound,” Kiryu replied, sipping the cup of tea he’d been handed by one of the disciples, “I’ve even started training my own student.”

“Have you now? Is it that bright young girl who often follows you around?”

“Haruka, yes. She’s picking it up pretty fast, although I’m not making her face armed opponents like you did with me.”

 Komaki motioned to another of his students, who brought over a thin paperback book. “Here, Kiryu. My beginner’s handbook.”

“Heh, I don’t remember ever getting this one.”

“It just arrived from the printers last week. We were able to hire a photographer and an artist, so there are many pictures and diagrams.” 

 Kiryu flipped through the pages. “It looks very professional. I take it business is good?”

“We’ve been in this building for years now, and the improvement has been significant. Students with full stomachs and a roof over their heads have far more energy and concentration.” Master Komaki nodded at the small group of students who were training together at the other end of the room. “After West Park was bulldozed, most of us didn’t know what to do, but between the dojo and the casino, and the jobs Kamurocho Hills is providing, many of us have been able to find sanctuary here, and turn our lives around. We owe much to the Majima Family.”

 Kiryu’s teacup was halfway to his lips, but he paused. “The Majima Family?” 

“Yes, they acquired this building several years ago. Some of us feared eviction, but I’ve known Majima-san for far longer than most, and knew that wouldn’t happen. He not only reassured us that he wouldn’t oust us, but he came here himself with his men to help patch the roof and renovate the casino.”

“That’s good to hear,” Kiryu said, “Majima’s always been a man of his word.”

“Yes, of course. I imagine you’ve fought him often enough to get a good sense of his character.”

 Kiryu hid his smile behind his teacup. “Yeah.”

“I asked him recently if he’d reconsider becoming my pupil, but he refused. He always did prefer doing things his own way.”

“True,” Kiryu said, once again keeping his answer short to mask his affection.

 They finished their chat, and Kiryu was surprised to hear that both Saejima and Akiyama had also recently helped the people of the Dragon Palace. After being lightly scolded for not updating his blog, Kiryu left with a beginner’s handbook in his back pocket, and a deeper appreciation for his partner. 

 The storefronts and people may change, but Kiryu could walk blindfolded down the streets of Kamurocho and still get to where he needed to go. The city looked brighter this time around. He’d always had a mission, or some terrible string of problems to solve. It was impossible to avoid all the memories that washed over him as he walked, but this time, it was easier to focus on the good times. 

 Kiryu passed the arcade in Theater Square, where Haruka had once walked out with so many UFO Catcher toys that she could barely carry them. Looking to his other side, Kiryu couldn’t help chuckling to himself when he saw the restaurant that Shinji once insisted made the best fast food, but had given them both a bad case of food poisoning. Kiryu had vowed never to step foot in a NY HotDog ever again, but their bad experience hadn’t stopped Shinji from eating there once a week. 

 As he crossed the street, Kiryu remembered the time he’d run at a full sprint down the middle of this road with Nishiki when they were running late. They arrived right on time, but looked so disheveled that Kashiwagi had sent them away. Kiryu smiled at the memory, and again as he looked down a shadowy alleyway. He’d fought Majima twice in that narrow lane. 

 Feeling light on his feet, Kiryu arrived at Tenkaichi street. He was looking forward to seeing Date, even though he knew he had to be careful with his words. He had no plans to reveal that he and Majima were a couple. As good of a friend as Date was, that would be too awkward. It had been awkward enough when Kiryu had been involved in Date’s love life with New Serena’s Mama. What was her name again? Kiryu tried to remember as he rode the elevator up to the bar. He was pretty sure it started with an M, or was he just thinking that because he knew her as Mama? 

 The elevator opened, and he could hear laughter on the other side of the door. He pushed it open and saw both Mama and Date behind the bar, with a single customer in front of them, a stout, pretty woman in glasses. 

“Kiryu?” Date walked out from behind the bar with a concerned look on his face. “What’s happened now? Is Haruka okay?”

“Heh, everything’s fine, Date-san. Haruka is safe with the other kids back in Okinawa. I’m just in town for a couple of days and wanted to stop in.”

 It was hard to tell whether Date was more shocked or confused. Mama greeted him warmly and pointed to his usual seat. “A whiskey, Kiryu?”

“Yes, thank you, Mama,” he replied and sat down. 

 Date had recovered, and walked back behind the bar. “I guess there’s a first time for everything. Kiryu, have you met Hana? She works upstairs with Akiyama.”

 Hana, who had taken out a sparkly pink cell phone, snapped it shut and smiled politely. “Nice to meet you, Kiryu-san. Akiyama-san talks about you so often I feel like we’ve met already. I hope you don’t mind, but I just messaged him. He wouldn’t want to miss seeing you.”

“Good, I wanted to see him too,” Kiryu said. “Have you worked with him long?”

“Ever since the start of Sky Finance, yes. I took a leave of absence recently, but I’ve been back for about three months now.”

 Date spoke again before Kiryu could respond. “Er, Kiryu, I’m afraid one of our regular customers is having a private party here tonight. I can get the blankets and things ready for you after that, but it’ll have to be after midnight.”

“Thanks, but I have a place to stay this time around.”

“Oh?”

 Thankfully, before Date could pry, the back door opened and Akiyama strolled in. “How about that, Hana-chan. You were right.”

“Of course I was right,” Hana shot back, “and now I have a surefire way to get you up off that couch upstairs.”

 Akiyama laughed, “We’ll see.”

“Business must be tough since all your cash blew away.” Kiryu said. 

“Nah,” said Akiyama.

“Yes,” said Hana, at the same time. 

 There was light laughter from everyone, and Hana stood up. “Speaking of which, I should get back to work.” She looked at Akiyama, “I’ll let you catch up, but then we have to talk about those overdue collections.” She then turned back and smiled at Kiryu. “Nice to finally put a face to a name, Kiryu-san. Thank you for the coffee, Date-san, Mariko-san.”

 Mariko, that was Mama’s name. Kiryu nodded in silent thanks as Hana hurried to the back of the bar, pink heels clacking against the floor. Goromi’s pink heels made a similar sound, and Kiryu couldn’t help remembering the way she’d pulled his hair to make him look up at her. She was so tall in her heels…

 Akiyama chuckled, shaking Kiryu out of his reverie. “Hana-chan worries, but we’re already building our vault back up. That stunt we pulled with the helicopter turned out to be great advertising. Expensive, but effective.”

“I hope you’ve invested in a better lock for that vault,” Date said. 

 Akiyama sat down at the bar where Hana had been sitting. “Oh, the lock works fine, it’s remembering to lock it that’s the tricky part.”

 Date looked bewildered by that answer. Akiyama turned back to Kiryu. “Are you here long?”

“No. I have a dinner with Saejima, Majima and Daigo tomorrow night, then I’m heading back the next day.”

“They haven’t pulled you back into one of their schemes, have they?” Date asked, still sounding suspicious. “Or maybe it’s better if you don’t tell me now that I have a badge again.”

“No, it’s nothing like that. I really am just visiting. How is it being back on the force?”

“It’s like putting on an old pair of shoes. Familiar, but uncomfortable.” 

 Mama laughed and put a hand on Date’s shoulder. “I still don’t understand if it’s a good or bad thing when he says that.”

 Date looked back at her and smiled fondly. Heh, good for Date. “Is Tanimura still under your wing?” Kiryu asked. 

 It was Akiyama who answered. “No, about three weeks ago he followed that girl, what was her name? The pretty little detective from the Philippines. She had some big case and needed someone who spoke a few languages, so he’s over there for at least another month.” Akiyama pulled out one of those brand new smartphones with only one button. “He’s been silent since he went undercover, but he sent me this the day he arrived.”

 He handed the phone to Kiryu. It showed Tanimura in front of a lavish casino floor. He wore a suit and his hair was slicked back. “Heh, he looks happy,” Kiryu said. 

 The conversation stayed light, although Date still looked a little confused about why Kiryu was in town. Akiyama explained the in and outs of the stock market trading he’d been involved in recently. Mama listened carefully, but the way Date’s eyes glazed over, reassured Kiryu that he wasn’t the only one who didn’t understand or care much about that. 

 Date perked up when Kiryu asked him about his daughter. Kiryu was happy as always to talk about his own kids as well, and Akiyama was polite enough to nod along. After his drink and a cigarette, Kiryu decided it was time to get going. 

“Are you back here anytime soon, Kiryu-san?” Akiyama asked. 

“Don’t count on it,” Date said, “Kiryu tends to show up once every year or two.”

“Actually it looks like I’ll be back in October for a wedding.” Kiryu replied, ignoring Date’s look of surprise, “I don’t know if you remember Takashi—”

 Akiyama nodded, “The kid that the Florist of Sai had us do all that play acting for? Sure, I remember him. I guess that means he passed whatever test he was doing?”

“Heh, yeah. The Florist wants me to make sure the wedding happens without any yakuza interference,” Kiryu said. Date gave him a hard look. “Uh, the bride’s father is the head of the Atobe Family, but I don’t expect any trouble.”

 Kiryu tried to stay still, but Date was staring at him the way he had when they first met, like he knew there was more to the story. 

 After Akiyama said his goodbyes, Kiryu stood up and did the same. He was outside the door and had almost pushed the button for the elevator till Date called after him, still looking at Kiryu like he was a suspect. 

“Date-san?” 

“Something’s different about you, Kiryu.”

“Oh?” Kiryu asked, unsure of how else to respond. 

“I’ve never seen you look so relaxed. Have you got yourself a new girlfriend?”

“Uh…”

 Date nodded, looking pleased with himself. “I knew it. Staying with a friend, are you?” he laughed, “Are you going to bring her by, or is it too early for that?”

“It’s still too soon,” Kiryu said, relieved that he could answer the question honestly, “b-but maybe someday, if it keeps going this well.”

 Date looked satisfied with that answer. “It’s good to see you happy, Kiryu.”

“I can say the same for you. Your relationship seems to be going well.”

Date chuckled. “Saya keeps telling me I should marry her already, but slow and steady is working well for us so far.”

“That’s good to hear. When…” Kiryu considered his words, “when I’m ready, when we’re ready, I’ll let you know.”

“It’s enough to know you’re doing well.” Date said. Once again Kiryu was relieved. He should have known Date wouldn’t push him into an uncomfortable situation. That wasn’t the sort of man he was. “Just watch your back with the Tojo clan. I heard Saejima’s return ruffled a lot of feathers.”

“I heard that too. I’ll be careful.”

 Kiryu left the building with relief still flooding through his system. At his next stop, Stardust, he was disappointed to find that both Yuya and Kazuki weren’t working that day. He headed back up the street when his phone buzzed with a message from Majima. 

 

Almost done

Prob 10min

 

 Kiryu sent a heart in response. It was another hot day, but at least it was overcast, so the sun didn’t feel overly stifling. He knew it might be a fight convincing Majima to let him pay for lunch, so he took some extra cash out at the nearest ATM to be as prepared as possible when the time came. He continued slowly along till he stopped in front of his destination  

 The Millennium Tower loomed overhead, and even though he’d had a good morning, Kiryu couldn’t help the dread he always felt when he looked up at it. Very few good things had ever happened to him here, even before the tower was built. He’d almost turned Majima down when he’d suggested they meet there, but Kiryu was curious to see Majima’s office. He took a breath and walked through the revolving door.

 The decorations inside had changed from spring to summer, and there were several large advertisements for sales. Kiryu looked over the railing to the floor below as he headed for the escalator, but stopped when he saw four men walking out from the elevators. There were many people walking to and fro, but they all steered clear of these four. 

 The first two men looked unhappy. One was probably in his seventies, and the other didn’t look any older than twenty-five. By the way they walked, Kiryu would have been able to tell they were yakuza even if they weren’t wearing pins. The old man looked vaguely familiar, but so did most of the older family men. 

 Behind them walked Chairman Dojima, moving with the confidence and certainty of his rank. Slightly behind Daigo was Majima, stretching his arms and looking almost bored, a baseball bat hanging loosely from his hand. It was a different kind of confidence that Kiryu could see clearly even from the upper floor. 

 That morning, Kiryu had asked Majima why he’d dressed in his snakeskin and leather instead of a suit. Majima had answered that it ‘wasn’t a suit kinda meeting’. Now Kiryu understood. He was there to intimidate, and the way he was casually fiddling with his bat was obviously working well. He looked effortlessly dangerous, but Kiryu could see the intention behind every little gesture, every absentminded-looking twirl of his bat. Even from a distance it was captivating. 

 Kiryu leaned on the railing as he watched the elder speak with Daigo, and as proud as he was of Daigo’s composure, he couldn’t help staring at Majima. He looked so… sexy as he regarded the two men with disinterest.

 The younger of the two other men looked agitated. Kiryu was too far away to hear what they were saying, but their body language was clear. The younger one approached the elder, and when the elder waved him away he started stalking towards Daigo. Kiryu’s hands tightened on the railing. He nearly jumped right down to go help, but there was no need. The young man took one more step and in a blur of motion, the end of Majima’s bat was against his throat. A couple of people around them gasped, but no one did anything. Two men in suits near the elevator had also stepped forward. More backup for Daigo if needed. 

 The young man had reached into his jacket pocket, but removed his hand slowly. Kiryu watched Majima’s sadistic grin widen as he stared down his opponent, who had begun to cower. Daigo tilted his head slightly. Majima withdrew, but looked no less aggressive and dangerous as he stood at Daigo’s shoulder. 

 The heat that rushed through Kiryu’s body had nothing to do with the August sun outside. That was roughest, toughest badass he knew down there, and soon he’d be taking Kiryu home with him. Damn, he was lucky. 

 After a minute, the elder bowed deeply to Daigo, and he left through the back door followed by his hot-tempered associate. As soon as the door shut behind them, Majima laughed and shook Daigo by the shoulders. Kiryu saw Daigo’s slight smile, before he was pushed towards the elevators with the two men in suits. After Daigo left, Majima walked back out and smiled up at Kiryu, motioning for him. The bat was gone. He must have handed it off to Daigo or one of the other men. 

 Kiryu couldn’t help smiling as he walked down the escalator. “I was wondering if you’d noticed me,” he said when he reached Majima at the lower floor. 

“Kiryu-chan,” Majima said, “the second you step into a room, I notice. Still wanna see the office?”

“Yeah. It’d be nice to have at least one good memory in this place.”

 Majima slapped his shoulder. Kiryu was pleased that he was in a good mood. He followed Majima into an elevator, and to his annoyance, a flood of people stepped in behind them. 

 The upside of being crammed in the back corner was that he was able to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Majima, whose gloved fingers discreetly moved up and down his bare forearm for as long as he could get away with it. It gave Kiryu goosebumps. By the time they reached the top floor, the crowd was gone except for one nervous young man with a Majima Family pin. The kid rushed out and held the door open for Majima and Kiryu, then scurried away. 

 The last time Kiryu had been on this floor was the day Kashiwagi died. He looked down the left hallway and frowned. Before he could feel too sad, Majima lightly tugged on his shirt and motioned to the corridor on the right. 

“Ready to meet the family, Kaz?” he asked. 

“Yeah,” Kiryu said, and since they were alone, he couldn’t help but smile warmly at him. Majima let out a delighted laugh, and they headed towards the Majima Family offices.

Chapter 63: The Office (2010)

 From the first hallway, Majima turned a corner. Behind a long, tall desk under the Majima family crest, sat Minami Daisaku. Kiryu had a vague memory of him from his stint as Majima’s foreman. Back then, he was eager to please, almost as reckless as his boss, and just as opposed to wearing shirts. From the stories Kiryu had heard this year from both Akiyama and Saejima, none of that had changed. 

 Which is why it was surprising to see him in an unassuming brown suit and tie. He stared into space, looking almost lifeless behind that desk. The florescent lights above glinted off his many piercings, the only hint that this wasn’t a mere salaryman. That and the bad haircut. 

“Boss!” Minami shouted when he finally noticed them, jumping to his feet and bowing so low he disappeared behind the desk. “I didn’t think you’d be back so soon.”

“Say the line, dumbass!” Majima ordered.

 Minami straightened back up. “Welcome to the Majima Family Offices, Fourth Chairman. We’re honoured by yer visit.”

“Thanks,” Kiryu said. 

“Keepin’ busy, Minami?” Majima asked, peering over the desk. Kiryu looked as well. There was a lot of paperwork spread out next to a computer. Minami rushed to gather the pages together, but not before they saw a blank piece of paper with a bunch of doodles of what looked like tattoo ideas. As he scrambled, Minami also nudged the computer mouse, which woke the monitor. Kiryu could see some sort of pinball game on the screen. 

“Sorry, Boss. I was just takin’ a coffee break,” Minami said, although there was no drink in front of him, “I’m gettin’ all kinds of shit done today.” 

 Majima scoffed. “Let’s move on.”

“Nice to see you again, Minami.” Kiryu said. 

 Minami gasped dramatically. “Ya know my name? Hell yeah! I mean, uh, thank you, Fourth Chairman.” He bowed again, narrowly missing hitting his head against the desk, and Kiryu had to smile. He sounded like Majima did when he’d first met him. When Minami looked up again, he looked back and forth between Kiryu and Majima twice. “Huh.”

 Majima gripped the desk, “Ya got somethin’ to say?”

 There was a warning in his tone, but Kiryu couldn’t tell if Minami picked up on that. 

“It’s just funny that ya got the same neck mole.”

“What the hell’s funny about that?” Majima asked, leaning over the desk so his feet were almost off the floor. 

“Nothin’, Boss!” Minami said, and with this bow, he did hit his head on the desk. 

 Majima laughed and stepped back. “Now that’s funny. Do your work, or it’s another week up here.”

 Minami shouted a “yes Sir!” as they passed. They continued down another hall past the reception area. 

“He doesn’t usually sit at the front desk?” Kiryu asked, knowing what the answer would be. 

“Nah, he’s bein’ punished. Minami hates bein’ bored, so he stuck doin’ boring jobs for another few days.”

 Kiryu was about to ask why, when they entered a large room with smaller desks. The walls were red, except for one corner, which was white. Everyone in the room bowed when they entered. Kiryu heard a whispered countdown then they all yelled “Welcome, Fourth Chairman,” at the same time. Kiryu nodded and gave a slight bow in return. 

 This wasn’t the first time Majima had sprung a show of respect on him, but this was respect without anything required in return. Maybe that was why Kiryu didn’t feel the usual sense of dread and discomfort. He wasn’t being forced into some conflict, and he wasn’t being pushed into joining up again. This display was just to make him feel important, and he had to admit, it was working. 

 He stood up straight as Majima introduced Kiryu to a few of his men, who acted like they were meeting someone famous. This was a little much, but thankfully it didn’t take too long. Soon Majima lead Kiryu into his office, yelling a joyful “Get back to work!" to his underlings as he did. 

 The door to the office shut and locked, and when Majima turned around, that mischievous smirk was on his face. 

“Kiryu—” Majima started, but was interrupted by a kiss. Kiryu couldn’t help himself. Majima made that low sound of approval that drove him wild. 

“I missed you,” Kiryu whispered, still holding him close, “knowing you were only a few streets away somehow made it worse.”

“Aw, Kaz,” Majima whispered back, “that’s so sweet it’s makin’ my teeth hurt.”

 Kiryu held his arm and moved them both towards the desk and kissed him again, his other hand against Majima’s bare chest. “I couldn’t take my eyes off you down in the lobby. I could see exactly what you were doing, and you were so damn good at it.”

 Majima toyed with Kiryu’s lapel. “Are ya sayin’ you could read me?”

 Kiryu smiled, “Yeah, I guess I could. You were intimidating, and it was really sexy.” He touched Majima’s neck, “Huh, we do have the same mole.”

“‘Course we do,” Majima said warmly. He reached for Kiryu's face but stopped. His head turned sharply, then he pushed Kiryu into one of the chairs in front of his desk. Kiryu was about to protest, but there was a knock on the door. Kiryu instead adjusted himself and tried to keep his expression neutral.

 Moving quickly to the door, the toe of Majima’s steel-toed shoe clacked against the door at the same time as he unlocked it, masking the sound. Kiryu couldn’t help but be impressed at his quickness, both in wit and body. Neutral expression, he reminded himself. 

“Daigo-chan!” Majima yelled, swinging the door wide open. Daigo looked annoyed by the loud greeting, but stepped inside anyway and handed Majima his baseball bat. Kiryu stood up to greet the chairman while Majima shoved the bat into an umbrella holder similar to the one in his apartment. 

“So you are up here, Kiryu-san,” Daigo said.

 Despite all their phone calls over the last two months, Daigo’s posture was stiff. Kiryu wondered if he still felt guilty about their fight back in March. It wasn’t a proper thing to do to a chairman, but Kiryu couldn’t help putting a hand on Daigo’s shoulder as if he was another one of his Morning Glory kids. “Good to see you, Daigo.”

 Despite the lack of decorum, Daigo looked relieved. “We’re still having dinner with Saejima tomorrow, right?”

“Yeah, but Majima hasn’t told me where we’re going.”

“It’s a new sushi place with private rooms, so we shouldn’t be disturbed,” Daigo said.  

 Kiryu smiled, “Fine by me. I was just telling Majima-san that I saw the tail-end of that confrontation in the lobby.”

“Hah,” Majima said, “that wasn’t a confrontation, that was a surrender, eh Boss?”

“The Kanazawa Family had three lieutenants working against us. The two you saw just now were the family’s patriarch and his grandson. Today we had to inform them that their whole family was being dissolved,” Daigo said seriously, as if he was reporting this to a senior officer. “With the exception of those two and the three lieutenants, we’ll try to find new roles for the rest of their men, but only after they’ve gone through interviews and background checks, of course.”

 That speech sounded rehearsed, but Daigo spoke well. “I take it the grandson wasn’t happy about that?” Kiryu asked.

“Nothin’ we can’t handle,” Majima said. “One spy is a problem, three means there’s somethin’ bigger goin’ on.”

 Kiryu looked between the two of them. “So you’re suspecting some kind of… coup?”

 Majima shot Daigo a look before turning to Kiryu. “No, nothin’ that big. Don’t worry, Kiryu-chan. We got this covered.”

 Daigo nodded. “All of this is thanks to Majima-san. He and his captain have been hard at work with the Tojo’s financials, and they uncovered some large payouts from a suspected Omi company.”

“The Omi again?”

“You’re talkin’ to a civilian, Daigo,” Majima warned, “as yer advisor, I’d advise ya to keep yer trap shut.”

 Daigo smiled tightly. Majima continued, “See what I can get away with, Kiryu-chan? And it only took a week-and-a-half in a shitty little jail cell to guilt him into listenin’ to me.”

“I hope you don’t talk to him like that in public,” Kiryu said. 

 Majima snickered, “Look at that. Two matching annoyed faces. Ya sure you two ain’t related?”

 To Kiryu’s surprise, Daigo chuckled. “I should be so lucky,” he said in a low voice, then brushed a loose strand of hair behind his ear. “I should get back to HQ. This was a success, but there’s a lot more work do be done. I’ll see you both tomorrow night.”

“See you then, Daigo.” Kiryu said. 

 Daigo walked out, and Majima smiled at Kiryu. “Don’t give me that look. If I don’t tease him, he’ll get too full of himself, and that ain’t a good look for a chairman.”

“Heh, so being annoying is strategic?” 

 Majima walked to the entrance of his office. “Damn straight.” 

 He looked Kiryu up and down, then threw the door closed. Unfortunately, right at the same time, someone tried to enter the room. The door slammed into the man behind the door with a loud thwack, and when the door swung open again, Nishida stood, looking wide-eyed and addled. 

 Kiryu bit his cheek to keep from laughing. “Are you okay?”

“Nishida!” Majima yelled, not even trying to hold in his laughter. “Good thing ya got that helmet on, huh? I coulda broken that little button nose of yers.”

 Nishida rubbed his forehead under the helmet, “Um, y-yeah.” He blinked a couple of times, shaking off the shock, then handed Majima a clipboard. 

“The hell is this? I’m busy.”

“Boss, you promised we’d go over this paperwork before you left today,” Nishida said. “I apologize, but it can’t wait any longer.”

 Majima sneered at the clipboard. Kiryu stepped forward. “Go for it. I can keep myself busy.”

“Yeah?” Majima asked. 

“Yeah. Is Saejima on this floor? I’ll go see him.”

 Nishida nodded gratefully. “Yes. On the other side of the building. I can get someone to take you to him, Kiryu-san.”

“No need, I’ll find my own way,” Kiryu said, smiling at Majima, who still looked unhappy. “Take your time, Nii-san.”

“I’ll find ya when I’m done. If anybody gives ya any grief, go ahead and knock ‘em out.” 

 Kiryu waited till he was behind Nishida and winked. Majima’s face lit up as he reached for the door. 

“Watch your head, Kiryu-chan,” he said. When he was sure Kiryu was out of the way, he slammed the door shut. As he walked away, Kiryu could hear Majima talking loudly.

 Finding Saejima’s office on his own proved futile, as all the men outside the office leapt up to assist him. He was escorted through the large room with all the desks by an eager man who Kiryu was pretty sure worked for the construction company years before. The hard hat he wore was a pretty big clue.

“What happened there?” Kiryu asked, pointing at the white part of the wall. 

“Oh, that. We had a party a week ago, and someone convinced Minami-aniki to do his flame breathing tricks in here. He was standing too close to the wall and it caught on fire. If Captain Nishida hadn’t acted fast, we might have lost the whole office. 

“Good for Nishida,” Kiryu said as they walked down the hallways, passing Minami again, who was again staring into space. Kiryu stopped in front of Kashiwagi’s old office. “What’s in here?”

“Storage, mostly. Boss Majima wouldn’t let anyone take this office after the Kazama patriarch died. 

 Kiryu considered going in there, but knew it would only make him sad, and that wasn’t the headspace he wanted to be in when he met Saejima. His guide waited patiently while he debated. When Kiryu turned away from the door he perked up again. 

“Patriarch Saejima is in the next office, just there,” he said, pointing at the next door. 

“Thanks for your help. I’ll take it from here,” Kiryu said. 

 His guide bowed low and hurried away. Kiryu took a deep breath before knocking on the door. It wasn’t that he was nervous to see Saejima, but the last time he saw him, they met as friends. This time, he was meeting his partner’s brother. There was no point in standing there worrying. He knocked loudly, and heard a loud “yeah” from behind the door. 

 The office was similar in appearance to Kashiwagi’s, and larger than Majima’s. The major difference being the metal shutters that covered more than half of the long glass windows, protecting the desk from any outside attacks. Kiryu approved. 

 Hunched over the desk at a computer sat Saejima. He looked over when Kiryu entered, but didn’t get up. 

“Yo, Kiryu. Take a look at this.”

 Kiryu came around the desk to see what had Saejima looking so captivated. It was a satellite picture of a large group of ruins surrounded by bright green grass. “What are we looking at?”

“Machu Picchu, in South America. In ‘85, the year I got sentenced, the paper ran a big story on Peru, but they only had black and white photos. Now anybody can take a look whenever they want.” Saejima’s voice was awestruck. “Nishida set me up with this Google Earth thing the other day, and it’s fuckin’ incredible. People attach their vacation pictures to this thing, and it’s almost as good as bein’ there.”

“Yeah, the kids use it for school projects sometimes.”

 Saejima was typing now, and Kiryu was comforted to know that he wasn’t the only one who struggled with a computer  keyboard. He decided not to bring up how fast the kids could type. 

“There, see that? It’s the pyramids in Egypt. And if ya zoom in here…” Saejima pressed the mouse so hard Kiryu thought in might break, “there’s The Sphinx. They take these shots from space, but look how clear that is.”

 Kiryu hadn’t seen Saejima look this impressed by anything. He tried to remember what computers were like before 1985 and drew a blank. He was still a teenager, and didn’t care about stuff like that if it wasn’t attached to a video game. He thought about how much had changed in the five years since he, himself was released from prison, and how overwhelming this must be for Saejima. 

 Under a furrowed brow, Saejima was typing again. When he finished, the image showed Kamurocho. He tapped the screen. “Look, heh heh, we’re right there, under the helicopter pad.”

“Everything looks so small,” Kiryu said. Saejima wasn’t wrong, it was interesting. He walked back around the desk and sat down in the chair facing it. “Is travelling something you want to do?” 

 Saejima’s eyebrows rose. “I didn’t think that was ever in the cards for me, but I could say that for just about anythin’. You done a lotta travellin’, Kiryu?”

“No. Okinawa’s the furthest I’ve been away from Tokyo.”

“Yeah, me too. Didn’t have any choice in that trip. Might be nice to go somewhere, someday. I heard Tanimura chased a girl south to the Philippines.”

“I just heard that too. Travelling might be a good goal to work towards.”

“Did Majima tell ya to say that.”

“No.”

 The two men looked at each other. Saejima didn’t look comfortable in his suit. His tie was loose, and his hair hung limp to his shoulders. Finally the side of his mouth turned up in a very slight smile. “So, you and my brother, huh?”

“Yeah,” Kiryu said, holding eye contact. 

 It was Saejima who finally looked away as he leaned back in his chair. “I’ll tell ya the same thing I told him. I’m happy for both of ya. Majima’s a… unique guy. I didn’t think he’d ever find anybody good enough for him, but the way he talks about you lets me know he has. I’ve never seen him this happy.”

 Kiryu was shocked by his frankness. “I-I’ll do my best to keep it that way.”

“Good. Would hate to have to fight ya again.”

“Heh, don’t worry, I’m not stupid enough to get on your bad side if I can help it. Speaking of fighting, I saw the florist this morning…”

 Kiryu did his best to explain exactly what he’d asked the Florist for and why, while Saejima listened silently, his smile gone. A lesser man would’ve been glared into silence, Kiryu thought.

“So if all goes well, it should help your case, and might reduce your sentence,” Kiryu finished saying. 

 Saejima didn’t look happy. “I ain’t tryin’ to reduce the sentence, Kiryu. Goin’ back in is gonna help the clan, so that’s what I’m gonna do.”

“I can respect that,” Kiryu replied, “but three years is a long time for a new patriarch to be away from the clan. I’m sure Majima said the same thing, but he’s not as objective as I am.” Kiryu had practiced this next part. “I might be a civilian now, but I spent almost a decade being guided by Kazama-san, Dojima-san, and other Tojo officers. They taught me a lot about what it is to be a patriarch, so I’m not saying this for no reason.”

 After all Kiryu’s conversations this morning, carefully choosing his words was getting exhausting, and it was starting to annoy him that Saejima’s expression hadn’t changed. But Kiryu had been called stubborn all his life, and he wasn’t about to back down just because he was facing that same stubbornness from across the desk. He continued to explain what he’d learned when he was getting ready to lead his own family fifteen years ago. 

“If you won’t take my advice as a Yakuza, take it as a friend, and as someone who… really cares about your brother. You should fight this. Majima will never admit it, but he needs you in his life. So does Daigo. They’ve tried to keep me out of the discussion, but I keep hearing about plots and betrayals. Daigo needs people he can trust, and I can’t think of anyone better than you. You’re no good to them if you’re away for three whole years.”

 Kiryu sat back in his chair, but he kept his expression stern as they once more stared each other down. 

“Ya done?” Saejima finally asked. 

“Yeah, pretty much.”

 Saejima huffed, but his glare softened. “I owe you a lot, Kiryu, so I’ll keep that in mind. I ain’t promisin’ ya nothin’, but I will think about what you said.”

“Good enough for me.”

 Saejima cracked a smile. “I’m lookin’ forward to this dinner tomorrow. Majima tells me you got stories about the chairman when he was little. I like the kid, but he needs to loosen up.”

“I’ll try to think of stories that aren’t too embarrassing for him.”

 Saejima nodded, “Are ya gonna tell him? ‘Bout you and Majima?”

 Kiryu looked away. “I haven’t decided yet.”

“Let me know if ya need a moment alone with Daigo. It’s been a while since I’ve hauled Majima out of a restaurant, but I can still do it.”

“Heh, that’s good to know.”

 From there the conversation grew far less awkward, and Saejima looked more relaxed when he started talking about his wood carving hobby. 

 It wasn’t long after that when Majima burst into the room. “The hell are ya talkin’ about?” he yelled, grinning wildly. 

 Kiryu held up the wooden bear he was holding. “This.”

“Damn. I thought I’d catch ya talkin’ about somethin’ interesting.”

“Most people knock, bro,” Saejima said.

“Hah, you two know better than anyone that I ain’t most people,” Majima replied. He put a hand on Kiryu’s shoulder. “Ready to get outta here, Kiryu-chan?”

 Kiryu put the wooden bear back on the desk, “Yeah.”

 They said goodbye to Saejima, and walked back through the halls. Majima strode confidently, like the patriarch he was, and Kiryu did his best not to stare. 

 When they stepped into the elevator, they were alone. Majima stretched his arms above his head and yawned loudly. Kiryu assumed Majima was about to his put his arm around his shoulder, so he leaned in. Instead, Majima’s hand continued behind him to slap his ass. 

 They both laughed. Kiryu was happy to have finished the difficult conversations he had to have today, and Majima just looked happy. Soon they’d have lunch, and at long last get back to the apartment. Before the doors opened again, Kiryu snuck one more kiss.

Chapter 64: Here There and Everywhere

 Kiryu followed Majima to the north-east and into a large building that had stood for as long as Kiryu could remember. On the fifth floor, and down several narrow hallways, was a small Vietnamese restaurant. Majima seemed well-acquainted with the owner, even though the place looked so new Kiryu was surprised he couldn’t smell the paint. 

“This place is great,” Majima said when they were seated, “they’ve already got a good customer base but the tourists haven’t found it yet.”

 Their food came quickly, and the pork skewers he’d ordered was delicious. After Majima insisted Kiryu try some of his lemongrass chicken, they ate quickly and in near silence.

 When they got up to pay the bill Kiryu had to grab the back of Majima’s jacket to get to the cashier first. Luckily, Majima didn’t put up any more of a fight, he just grumbled something under his breath about chewing off Kiryu’s sideburns, which Kiryu chose to ignore. 

 Only when they were outside the restaurant and back in the hallways did Kiryu chuckle. “I really like you, Goro.”

 Majima looked horrified. “Just like?”

“N-no,” Kiryu said, before realizing a second too late that Majima was joking. “Heh, well, maybe.”

 Majima grinned ans they walked back to the elevator. When it started its descent, Kiryu grabbed Majima’s shoulder and pushed him against the wall. Majima gasped as Kiryu leaned in. “I really love you, Majima Goro.”

 Majima looked stunned. Kiryu kissed him on the nose and stepped back just as the elevator announced that they’d reached street level. He loved that he could still shock Majima by something so simple. 

 Majima caught up to Kiryu, who had walked away. “That was real cute. Sickly sweet. I shoulda hit the Stop button in there.”

“That would’ve been a bad idea. It usually makes an alarm go off.”

“And how’d’ya know that?” Majima asked suggestively. 

“Heh, only because the stop button is usually down low, and little kids love pushing buttons,” Kiryu said. “Let’s go home, Goro.”

“That’s all I’ve wanted to do since we left my place this mornin’. I’ll get us a cab.”

“It’s not that far of a walk.” 

“In this heat? Kiryu-chan, I’ll die.”

“No you won’t, not with your air conditioner back home.”

“Fine, we’ll walk,” Majima grumbled, “but only if I can point out all the places you and I should fu—” 

 He stopped because a family with three little kids nearly ran right into him. When they finally noticed the uniquely-dressed man with the wild smile they’d almost collided with, the women yelped and the family sped up, mumbling apologies.  

“I get the idea,” Kiryu said after they’d gone.  

“Good,” Majima replied, and they set off east towards Majima’s building. “There,” he said, almost immediately, pointing to a dark stairwell that led down to a closed store. 

“Looks dark enough,” Kiryu said, which earned him a nod of approval. “That restaurant was great. I would’ve just gone to one of my usual spots.”

 Majima shrugged, “Ya said you like trying new things with me.”

“I do—”

“There,” Majima interrupted, pointing to a sketchy-looking massage parlour, “and there,” he added, pointing at the adult store next door with a sexy nurse outfit in the front window, “while in that.”

“Heh, that doesn’t sound too bad.”

 The afternoon sun was oppressive. Kiryu wished he’d taken Majima’s offer of a cab ride, but he couldn’t admit that now. As they trudged though the hot streets, Majima kept pointing out places he thought they should have sex. Most were jokes, but Kiryu had to speak up when Majima pointed at the decrepit building in the distance that used to be the Shangri-La.

“Seriously? Have you been inside there in the last few years?”

“Yep, but with you, I’d still go for it. Even now, in the dirt, with all the freaks watching, I’ll send ya right through the floor again.”

 Kiryu made a face that made Majima laugh. It felt unusual walking down these familiar streets feeling so carefree. It made him feel young again. 

 “There,” Kiryu said, when Majima’s apartment came into view. 

“Kiryu-chan, you’re takin’ this game way too literally.” 

 Back inside the apartment, Majima kicked off his shoes and tapped his foot impatiently while Kiryu did the same. Before he had the chance to make a move, Kiryu rushed forward and beat him to it, pressing Majima’s back against the inside of the closed door. He held Majima by the jaw and kissed him, shamelessly grinding up against his body as Majima sucked on his tongue. 

 Kiryu was about to let go, then Majima’s leg wrapped around his back. Kiryu gripped his thigh, holding him there as Majima’s tongue ran along his teeth. He squeezed Majima’s ass, mindful of the sheathed dagger that was kept in the back of his pants. 

“Kaz,” Majima said, and buried his head into Kiryu’s shoulder. He’d left the fierce patriarch outside, and was once again the clingy, affectionate person he was when they were alone. Kiryu turned his head so their eyes met once more. “I don’t want to stop,” Majima said, “but if ya don’t let me turn on the AC, I’m gonna melt right here in the doorway.”

“Heh, go for it.”

 As soon as he was released, Majima ran for the air conditioner, vaulting over the couch without slowing down. He clicked the machine on, and threw his snakeskin jacket on the couch before pressing his back up to the vents. 

“If you get any closer to that thing, I’ll get jealous,” Kiryu said.

 Majima laughed and pulled his gloves off. “C’mere, Kaz. A three way with you and the AC sounds real interestin’.”

“It sounds more like a fever dream.” Kiryu said. He let Majima unbutton his shirt, and stepped to the side so they could both get the benefit of the cool air. 

“Much better.” Majima ran his fingers down Kiryu’s chest, “Now, when are ya gonna tell me what ya got in your back pocket?”

 Kiryu chuckled. It felt like he’d been under surveillance all day, but Majima’s surveillance was the most acceptable form of that. He reached back and pulled the items out of his pocket. “Komaki gave me his new beginner’s manual for Haruka.”

“That finally got printed, huh? He’s been talkin’ about it for weeks.”

“He also told me how much you’ve helped him and his friends.”

 Majima scoffed like that was a bad thing. “That old man’s exaggeratin’.”

“I don’t think Komaki’s ever exaggerated in his life.”

 Majima shrugged, “The Palace is in my territory. It’s good business to keep ‘em happy. Their casino got big when we blocked off the West Park entrance to Purgatory. Some of the high-rollers ended up over there when they decided they were too good for a stroll through the sewers. That’ll change now that we got elevator access through the Hills.”

“Oh? I wish I knew about that this morning.”

“Why— aw shit, you went to the Florist, didn’t ya?”

“I did.”

 Majima didn’t look happy, but went and sat on the couch, pulling out his tanto. “All right, tell me what happened.”

“Put that down first.”

 Kiryu took a seat next to Majima, who laughed and put the dagger down on the coffee table. Kiryu placed his items next to it. He described his conversation with the Florist, including that he was probably aware about the nature of their relationship. Majima looked like he had a lot to say, but he held his tongue till Kiryu finished. 

“So, ya got the florist to agree to give ya the tape, plus he’s payin’ yer way for his kid’s wedding, and all ya gotta do is keep me from startin’ shit at the ceremony?” Majima asked. 

“You don’t have to sound so skeptical,” Kiryu said, taking Majima’s hand, “and how did you know it was his son’s wedding?”

 Majima kissed Kiryu’s wrist. “The Florist might be the most famous information dealer out there, but he ain’t the only one in the game. I got eyes all over town, and no jokes about compensating.”

 With his free hand, Majima undid his eyepatch tie and rubbed his bad eyelid.  

 Kiryu smiled, “Heh, I know more than anyone that you don’t need to compensate for anything.”

 Majima paused like he wanted to make sure Kiryu understood that he’d made a joke, then laughed and squeezed his hand. “Kaz, ya always know just what to say. But back to the Florist. You’re sure he’ll keep his promises? ‘Cause if there’s a chance he’ll make things ugly for you, then I’ll come at it from another angle. There’s plenty of ways to make cash, it’s just a bonus if I’m takin’ it away from the rich fucks down in the arena.”

“You don’t need to back off. He told me he’ll be discreet about anything between me and you, and I believe him. If he even mentions it to you, let me know and I’ll deal with him.”

 Majima sighed, “Kaz, I didn’t want ya gettin’ involved in any of this.”

“I don't plan on getting in your way with… whatever deals you’re trying to make with the Florist, but I can’t take a backseat when I could be helping you out.”

“Of course ya can’t. That hero instinct of yours is too strong,” Majima said, bumping his shoulder against Kiryu’s, then he made a loud noise of frustration. “Dammit, Kaz, I can’t even be mad atcha for this! That wedding was gonna be boring as hell, but if you’re there it might be fun.” He paused, looking thoughtful, “If the Florist does come through with that audio tape, the hard part’ll be convincing my bro to actually use it.”

“That’s why I talked to Saejima today,” Kiryu said. Majima kept a hand on his shoulder. “I don’t know if he fully accepted what I had to say, but I think I got through to him.”

 Shock passed over Majima’s face, which turned into a frown. “What did ya tell him? If ya made me sound weak to the big guy, then you’re sleepin’ on the couch tonight.”

 Kiryu smiled at the empty threat. “I don’t think it would’ve mattered if I did. He obviously thinks really highly of you.”

 After Majima was done rolling his eye, Kiryu told him more about what they’d discussed.

“You’re supposed to be on vacation, Kiryu-chan.”

“And I’m having a great time, Nii-san.”

 Majima lunged forward and grabbed Kiryu’s face, kissing his cheek with a loud smack, “I love ya, Kaz. This shit means a lot to me.”

“You mean a lot to me. We’re on the same team, so if I can help you, I will.”

“Yeah? Then why didn’t you tell me where you were going this morning?”

“I… hmm.” 

 The truth was that Kiryu hadn’t even  considered that he should. He saw a problem, and went to try to solve it. 

“Kaz, if we’re a team, you gotta let me in on the game plan.” Majima said seriously. 

“You don’t tell me about your work,” Kiryu countered. 

“That’s ’cause it’s work. That’s got nothin’ to do with us.”

“The Florist said you were pushing for more money because of me. Is this all for this retirement fund you keep talking about?”

 Majima didn’t look thrilled with that question, but Kiryu held his gaze. “It’s a part of it, yeah. Part of it is makin’ sure Saejima’s family stays outta the red while he figures his shit out, and part of it’s for Daigo. There’s still a lot of ambitious hotshots who want his chair, and he needs to show them all that he’s got what it takes. That takes dependable revenue streams and shit.”

 Kiryu nodded, but Majima wasn’t finished. 

“And yeah, of course part of it is for a new beach umbrella, and presents for the kids, and booze for drinkin’ under the stars. That ain’t so wrong, is it?”

“No, but I don’t want to have to rely on you for that. It would make me feel…” Kiryu debated whether to say this next part out loud, “the Florist called me a mob wife.”

 Several different emotions passed over Majima’s face this time. He bit his lip, and Kiryu was pretty sure that was to hold in a laugh. With a sigh, Kiryu looked at the ceiling. “Go ahead, make a joke.”

“I wouldn’t dare, gorgeous. But I was just thinkin’ how I wanted to get ya a new fur coat. Maybe a convertible or two, a diamond necklace, and of course I gotta find ya a nice outfit for this wedding we’re goin’ to—”

“Okay, enough.”

 Majima chuckled. “Aw, but you’d make such a good mob wife, Kazzy.”

 Kiryu scowled, “I don’t know why you’d think that.”

“Because whether ya like it or not, you need someone to take care of you, and that’s all I wanna do.”

 Kiryu looked back at Majima, whose expression had turned from teasing to sincere. “Thanks.”

“Mob wife. Tch, fuck that guy! Want me to go kick his ass? I’ll do it. He’s been a big enough pain in mine lately.”

“Heh, no,” Kiryu said, and tilted Majima’s head so he could kiss him. 

 Majima sighed. “Are we done talkin’ about this? Can I take my pants off now?”

“You didn’t have to wear leather today.”

“You saw what I was up to. It don’t feel the same without these,” Majima said as he unbuckled his belt. 

 Kiryu reached out and pulled down the fly. “You looked hot. Heh, both kinds of hot.”

 Majima’s bright, genuine smile never failed to send a thrill through Kiryu’s veins. In a difficult manoeuvre since they were both still on the couch, they were able to get Majima out of his leather pants. Kiryu was focused on the legs, and was about to throw the offending garment towards the bedroom when Majima grabbed his hand. 

“Not so fast, Kaz. Ya never asked me what was in my back pocket.”

 Kiryu looked back at Majima, and only then noticed his underwear. A pink, silky little thing with a black bow on the front. Kiryu pulled Majima’s legs into his lap. “You weren’t wearing this when we left.”

 Majima pointed to the leather pants in Kiryu’s hand. “Check the back pocket. On the right.”

 Kiryu pulled a small folded up plastic bag. He opened it and pulled out a package of matching pink fishnet stockings with black bows on the front. The photo on the front of the cardboard packaging showed a woman with absurdly long legs modelling them. “Wow.”

“They were supposed to be shipped in last week but they only got to the office this morning. I was pissed. Goromi was supposed to be wearin’ em when ya walked in.”

 Kiryu put a hand on Majima’s leg. “Is it too late?”

Majima thought about it. “Ehh, Ii ya want I could let her out for ya.” 

“Goromi doesn’t have to wear them. You’d look just as good.”

 Majima looked away, but smiled. “Yeah? I wanna take ya to Hills tonight, and don’t feel like puttin’ on a shit-ton of makeup right now just to take it off an hour later. Maybe tomorrow?”

 Kiryu ran his hand up to the edge of Majima’s underwear. “You look sexy just like this. I don’t think I want you to put anything else on.” He moved his hands down and pulled off Majima’s socks, then pulled his knee up so he could kiss the side of his leg. “You have great legs, Goro.”

 Majima grabbed his open shirt and pulled till Kiryu was leaning right on top of him. “How can a big tough guy like you be so fuckin’ sweet?”

“You’re one to talk,” Kiryu said. He began to kiss Majima’s neck till he found that tender spot just below his jaw that elicited the biggest reaction. “I brought home a movie to watch.”

“Ya did?” Majima asked loudly into his ear, “Don’t tell me they made a sequel to that bathhouse one?”

“No, this is more personal. The Florist gave it to me.”

“Ugh, Kaz! Why’d’ya gotta bring up that guy when ya got me half-hard?” Majima grumbled, pushing Kiryu away. “I wasn’t even gonna ruin that wedding, by the way. I was just makin’ him sweat thinkin’ I would. The Atobe Family are allies. I ain’t stupid enough to fuck up the patriarch’s daughter’s ceremony.”

“Good.”

 Sitting back up, Kiryu moved the Komaki handbook to pick up the slim DVD case underneath it, which contained a disc with black marker scribbled on the front, he handed it to Majima. 

“The Dragon vs. The Mad Dog: Ten Best Fights,” Majima read, then turned to Kiryu and grinned. “No shit?”

“One of the assistants down in Purgatory was going to start selling it but the Florist stopped him, apparently for my sake. I haven’t seen it yet so I don’t know if it’s any good.”

“If it’s you and me fightin’, how could it be bad?”

 Kiryu didn’t know how to answer that. There were some fights he didn’t need to relive, but he was still looking forward to watching. 

 Majima stood up, and Kiryu’s worry disappeared. All he wore were those tight pink briefs, and Kiryu couldn’t help leaning forward and kissing right at the edge of his tattoo, then along the three red flowers on the back of his right thigh. 

“Kaz,” Majima sighed, “lemme get us some drinks and we’ll watch this thing. You gotta be the one to stop, because I sure as hell ain’t gonna stop ya.”

 Kiryu squeezed his thigh and kissed one more sakura blossom. “I’ll help you.”

“You can help me by wearing less,” Majima said, tugging on Kiryu’s open lapel before walking to the kitchen. Kiryu stripped to his underwear, then followed. Majima looked him up and down appreciatively, handed him an ice cold oolong tea, and with that and a bowl of mixed nuts, they settled down together, finally cool after being outside in the heat. 

Chapter 65: Sex, Truth, and Videotape

Majima hit play from a very basic DVD menu which only had the word play, and the title in red: The Dragon vs. The Mad Dog: Ten Best Fights.

 Kiryu slung his arm around him as words appeared on screen. 

 

Two of the best fighters Kamurocho has ever seen have squared off countless times…

 

“Countless, huh?” Majima asked, “And what’s that supposed to mean, two of the best? Who the hell’s better than us?”

 

These are ten of their best matches

 

 Fast electronic music began to play. The scene opened on Nakamichi Street at night, near the Smile Burger. The camera was high above the busy street, then it zoomed in on a large pylon. Nearby, Kiryu was walking alone with his hands in his pockets. He stopped and carefully checked the pylon, but there was nothing inside. Two seconds later, Majima popped out from underneath a nearby manhole. 

 Majima laughed, and Kiryu had to smile at the annoyed expression he was making on-screen. The fight soon began, with Majima twirling the bat he’s brought up out of the sewer with him. 

“Damn, you look good,” Majima said. 

“So do you.”

 Considering that it was all filmed on grainy, hidden security cameras, it did look impressive. Whoever made this had edited it to look as cinematic as possible. This wasn’t a long fight, but it was rough. By the way he was fighting, this was pretty soon after he was released from prison. Majima won that fight, and the scene changed. 

 Two more fights followed, one with Officer Majima, and another where Majima joined a street fight Kiryu was involved in. It was strange to watch this from the outside. He knew Majima wouldn’t let him fight with anything less than all he had, but as he watched him spit blood onto the street, it felt like he should apologize. 

 He snuck a look at Majima, who was laughing at the screen, clearly having a great time. Kiryu tried to let go of that worry, and held him closer. 

 The Majima on-screen spun around on his hands and delivered a kick to Kiryu’s side. Kiryu grabbed his leg on the next rotation and threw him onto the hood of a car. Majima landed easily and posed like a model. Kiryu looked away sharply, then Majima hopped off the car and they circled each other again. Even at a distance, it was easy to see that this was more than just an average street fight. Majima looked enraptured.

“How did I not notice?” Kiryu mused. 

 “You did, Kaz, you just didn’t wanna admit that ya did.” Majima grabbed the remote and jumped back a few seconds. “Look. If ya didn’t notice, ya wouldn’t’ve looked away like that.”

“Hmm.”

 The fight ended with both of them bleeding, without any clear winner. The next began with Kiryu walking towards Debolah, the nightclub. Inside, Majima’s absurd dancing and flashy idol costume was drawing a crowd. Kiryu approached the group, and a disco song from the 80s started playing. 

“Look at us,” Majima said, grabbing Kiryu’s thigh. This bout was fought in time with the music, and even though there were only two cameras in the club, the angles caught how in-sync their movements were. 

“I was an idiot to make fun of that outfit, you look hot.”

“Don’t start with that, Kaz. I fell for ya while you were makin’ fun of my outfits.”

 Kiryu turned his head and Majima kissed him, squeezing his arm when Kiryu’s tongue touched his. 

 When they looked back, under the brightly coloured club lights, Kiryu delivered a hard uppercut, knocking Majima up and into the wall, where he landed awkwardly on his ankle. Kiryu stepped forward to help but Majima slapped him away. Kiryu left, and Majima’s adoring fans swarmed in to aid him to one of the tables beside the dance floor. 

 The song ended and the din of Theater Square could be heard. Kiryu stood outside the bar and made a phone call. His voice was barely audible over the crowd, but captions appeared.

 

…Yeah, you’ll need to bring help again, I don’t think he can walk on his own. 

 

 As the screen faded to black, Majima looked back at Kiryu. “You called Nishida for me? I didn’t know that.”

“Why did you think he always showed up so fast after you lost?”

“How ‘bout that,” Majima said, then chuckled. “Damn, you really wanted yer dick sucked, didn’t ya?”

“Heh, shut up.”

“I can’t. These fights are gettin’ me goin’,” Majima said. He touched Kiryu’s face, “Fuck, I love you.”

 Kiryu kissed him again, then, to his surprise, a romantic song started, something he’d probably heard in a Hostess Club. Majima scrambled into Kiryu’s lap as the Shine logo appeared. 

“Here comes your mob wife, Forth Chairman,” Majima purred in his ear. 

 Kiryu didn’t know how to feel about that statement, but he did like the feeling of Majima’s body against his, naked except for those silky underwear. They watched as Kiryu led Goromi by the arm up the stairs and out into the street. 

“Such a gentleman,” Majima said, wiggling his ass in Kiryu’s lap. Kiryu watched as Goromi posed and prepared for battle. He could see his own posture from behind. He looked more relaxed than in the previous fights.

“I did have a great time that night,” Kiryu said. He kissed Majima’s shoulder and ran his hand up the outer side of Majima’s thigh, over the thin silky fabric at his hip before turning his attention back to the TV.

 The fight began when Goromi slapped Kiryu in the face, then held her hand in front of her mouth and giggled. 

“Look, you smiled,” Majima said, “don’t think I didn’t catch that.”

“The fight was part of why the night was so great,” Kiryu admitted, speaking low into Majima’s ear. He hadn’t been wrong, it was a turn-on to watch this. Especially while indulging the feelings he’d tried to bury back then. He slid his hand up Majima’s inner thigh. Majima kept his eye on the screen, but Kiryu could hear his breath catch. 

“The hell was that lame-ass punch, Kaz? Were you lettin’ me win?”

“No, I was letting you think you had a chance.”

 Majima turned and narrowed his eye. “Thems fightin’ words.”

“Maybe so,” Kiryu replied. He hand was on the edge of Majima’s underwear, just close enough to feel his cock twitch under the fabric. 

“Ya gonna touch me or what?” Majima asked, ignoring the TV. 

 Kiryu squeezed his thigh, “I am touching you.”

“Tease.”

 Kiryu smiled and moved his thumb under the hem, as he watched Goromi jump up on his shoulders and flip them both over and down to the street. 

“I skinned my knee there.”

“I remember. I wish I’d taken you out somewhere after that.” Kiryu said as the fight ended. 

“I might have let ya,” Majima said, then he stiffened up. “Aw shit.”

“What?”

 The next scene had started, and showed Majima standing at the top of the Millennium Tower. The camera must have been on the other side of the railing, facing upwards. Even with the odd angle, it was obvious that Majima looked miserable. It cut to Kiryu, fixing his hair in the elevator on his way up. 

“Hmm, this is right before I left for Okinawa, isn’t it?” Kiryu asked as he watched himself approach Majima. 

“Yep.”

 There was no audio except for the sad music that accompanied the scene. Majima had that artificial smile on his face, and Kiryu kicked himself for not noticing. 

 He wrapped his arms around Majima, who made a loud noise of protest and wriggled his way out of Kiryu’s lap and back onto the couch. “I wanna see this one.”

The fight was just how Kiryu remembered. It was one of their last real fights, rough and fast, and ended with Majima getting knocked onto his back. The next shot was Kiryu lighting Majima’s cigarette as they spoke, looking out over the city. There was no audio or captions this time. Just the two of them together while quiet music played.

“This was when ya asked me to go back to the Tojo.”

 Kiryu took Majima’s hand. “If I’d known…”

“But ya didn’t. It’s fine,” Majima said quickly. “Why’d they keep this part in? The fight’s over.”

 Kiryu watched Majima beside him, and squeezed his hand. He glanced up at the screen in time to see himself turn and walk back towards the elevator. Majima, still standing at the railing, looked back. The expression on his face looked even more miserable than before. Hauntingly miserable. Guilt hit Kiryu hard. 

 The scene faded to black. Before the next fight started Kiryu reached for the remote and hit pause. He turned to Majima and held his hand. 

“What are ya doin’?”

“What I should have done that day,” Kiryu said. “Majima-no-nii-san—” 

 Majima snorted, “Aw hell, here comes the sap-fest.”

 Kiryu was undeterred. For good measure he grabbed Majima’s other hand, holding them together between his own  

“Kaz? What’s happenin’ here? Should I be wearin’ pants for this?”

 Majima looked nervous, but Kiryu knew this had to be said. “Majima-no-nii-san,” he repeated, “I’m going to Okinawa soon. I know you have a life and responsibilities here, but as soon as you can, I want you to come with me. Live with me and the kids, and I’ll do everything I can to make you happy.” 

 Majima’s eye was wide, and whether that was shock or panic, Kiryu couldn’t tell, but he didn’t look away. Kiryu continued, “I love you, Goro. I need you by my side.”

 When it was clear Kiryu was finished, Majima gave a short nod. Then, in one fluid motion, he broke his hands free and lunged, attacking Kiryu’s face with his lips, pressing him into the corner of the couch. “Idiot!” he said, laughing between kisses, “ya already asked me that! You and yer intense fuckin’ face, I thought… it don’t matter. We already talked about this, not even two weeks in, remember?”

“Yeah, but—” Kiryu said, and was kissed again before he could continue. A long, deep kiss. Majima’s hands were messing up his hair and his bony knees dug into his skin. With a last lick across his lips, Majima pulled back to stare at him, his hands still gripping Kiryu hair. 

“Kazuma-chan,” Majima said in that deep, approving tone, “I’ll be there. It’s gonna take a lotta time, but I’ll get there eventually. You know that right?”

 Kiryu nodded. He held Majima by the waist as he searched his face for any signs of unhappiness, but thankfully he found none. Majima kissed him again, sucking on his bottom lip.

“Let’s go to the bedroom,” Kiryu said once he regained control of his lips, “we can watch the rest of the fights later.”

 Majima released his hair, “I could take care of ya right here.”

 It would be more tempting if Majima’s knee weren’t still digging into his side. “No, I want to be comfortable. Let’s go.” 

 Kiryu stood and pulled Majima up with him, admiring the way the outline of his cock looked in the tight underwear.  

 The slippery sheets felt cool as Kiryu fell back against the plush, red mattress. Majima swung his leg over and pulled himself on top of him. Kiryu wrapped his arms around him and thrust his hips upwards. 

“That thing, ah!” Majima said as Kiryu’s lips found that sensitive spot behind his jaw again, “That thing ya called binoculars, wanna give it a spin?”

“I’ll get it.”

 Kiryu flipped Majima on his back, then went to find the sex toy and the lube off the dresser. Majima stretched his arms over his head as Kiryu returned, muscles expanding as he moved. 

“Your body…” Kiryu started, trying to think of a word other than beautiful, “it’s everything I want.” He ignored Majima’s laugh, put down the items he’d brought, and touched Majima’s chest. Majima sighed as Kiryu’s hand moved downward along his abs, then over the shiny pink underwear, till his palm cupped the prominent bulge. “I’m taking these off.”

“About time.”

 

 Minutes later, they lay facing each other on their sides, kissing and writhing, thrusting into the long silicone tube that held their cocks alongside each other. The device allowed them full use of their hands, and their arms moved over each other’s bodies in such a slow, perfect rhythm as their legs tangled. 

 Majima was never quiet in bed, but something about the way he kept softly moaning into Kiryu’s mouth felt like tossing whiskey onto a fire. Kiryu kept him in a firm hold, as if even this closeness wasn’t enough. Majima’s hand was in his hair, alternating between tugging on it and smoothing it down, firm and steady.

 In a haze of arousal, Kiryu wondered if being together would ever be less overwhelming. He’d never felt this all-encompassing need before their first time, and it grew ever stronger. He loved Majima. Kiryu knew that with complete certainty. He’d been in love before, for years but from a distance, and he thought he understood. He never knew how deeply he could continue to fall. 

 He smiled to himself and let that lovestruck, animalistic haze take him. Kiryu rutted against his partner, faster now, breathing hard as Majima whispered filthy things into his ear. One after the other, they tumbled over the edge of pleasure and went still. The only movement was Majima’s hand still slowly running through his hair. 

 Kiryu blinked and looked at Majima. His eye was closed, but he looked elated. Kiryu’s earlier guilt eased. He was going to do everything in his power to keep that smile on his beautiful face. Heh, Majima was right, he was a sap. 

 Majima’s eye slowly opened as if he were just waking up. “Kazuma,” he sighed. 

“I love you,” Kiryu said. It wasn’t enough to feel it, he had to say it out loud, “I keep falling more and more in love with you.”

“Yeah, same to you,” Majima replied, and they shared a laugh. 

 Majima got up and dealt with the toy, then jumped back onto the slippery sheets beside him. “You know I’m serious about ya when I’m ready to give up this big-ass bed.”

“What? I don’t want you to give up your bed,” Kiryu said, guiding Majima as he climbed on top of him. 

 Majima crossed his arms over Kiryu’s chest and rested his chin on top of his hands. “Hah, sure, it won’t raise any questions, shovin’ a king-sized mattress through the Morning Glory front door, or pushin’ all yer red shirts to the side of the closet to make room for my dresses and knives and crap. C’mon Kaz.”

“Hmm…” Kiryu said, “I hadn’t thought about that. We’ll… just have to explain it to the kids when the time comes.”

 Majima’s foot had been running against Kiryu’s leg, but now he lightly kicked his ankle. “Don’t say that like it’s gonna be easy.”

“I know, but it’s not going to stop me.”

“Come on, Kaz, ya said it yourself, the kids ain’t good with secrets, and this one’s a whopper. You’re bein’ stubborn.”

 Kiryu brushed Majima’s hair away from his good eye, then caressed his cheek. “So what if I am? We’re going to make this work. For all of us. And I own more than just red shirts. I brought a blue one with me for tomorrow.”

 Majima’s face disappeared behind his arms as he let out a loud groan against Kiryu’s chest. “You’re makin’ me be the responsible one again.”

 Kiryu’s fingers travelled over Majima’s upper arm, “I’ll be responsible, but we have time to figure this out, so don’t throw anything away. If watching that last fight taught me anything, it’s that you’ve already given up too much for me.”

 Majima peeked out at him from behind his arms, “And now you’re back to bein’ sappy.”

“It’s the truth.”  

 Majima pulled himself forward and kissed Kiryu’s cheek. “I know, darlin’. Speakin’ of that video, I’ve got exclusive roof access to The Hills. I wanna take ya up there tonight after all the stores close.”

“Yeah?” Kiryu asked.

“And… I might need ya in fighting shape for that.”

 Kiryu felt like he was being tested by how intently he was being watched. As he thought of a response, he let his fingertip run over his partner’s soft lips, slightly swollen from how much they’d been kissing. Majima closed his eye as Kiryu’s finger moved up and over the roughness of his two day old goatee. “You’re looking for a fight, Nii-san? After I was nice enough to buy you lunch?”

 Majima smiled brightly and bit Kiryu’s hand, baring his teeth before he let go. “Course I am. I ain’t a good guy,” he said before sucking Kiryu’s index finger into his mouth. 

 Despite having just cum, arousal pulsed through Kiryu’s body. “Yes you are, and you’re just as sappy as I am.”

“Take it back, Kiryu-chan!”

 Kiryu smiled. He’d never get tired of these antagonistic little games. “Or what?”

“Or the fight starts right fuckin’ now!”

“Oh yeah?” 

 Kiryu reached out and pushed Majima’s shoulder. He fell off Kiryu’s chest and flopped dramatically onto his back. Kiryu didn’t know why he found that was so endearing, but he did. 

 Majima turned back on his side, squeezing Kiryu’s bicep, “So, here’s the plan, Hot Stuff. I got that sea bream in the fridge for dinner, and we gotta watch the rest of that video. Later tonight I’ll take ya over to the Hills, give ya the tour from the ground up.”

“I look forward to seeing it,” Kiryu said. “The last time I was there I wasn’t paying attention to the actual building.” 

“Yeah, I’ll bet,” Majima said, momentarily serious before his grin returned. “After that, we get a little sweaty together on the roof like old times, then come back here and get even sweatier.”

“Heh, that’s a great plan.”

 Majima looked thrilled by his response, and kissed him again, before pressing his forehead against Kiryu’s. They breathed slowly together, resting up for their plans that night.

 

Chapter 66: Up On The Roof

 A lazy afternoon turned into a calm evening. Majima refused to let Kiryu help him with dinner, so while Majima prepared their meal, Kiryu told him more about his talk at New Serena. 

“So detective to journalist to bartender to detective again? Shit.”

“You’d like Date-san if you gave him a chance. He’s honest and trustworthy.”

 Majima had been chopping, but turned to Kiryu to answer, “I don’t hate the guy, even if he is a cop, I’m just sayin’ it’s a weird way to handle a mid-life crisis.” He threw a lemon into the air and caught it on the tip of the knife he was using. “But whatever floats his boat.”

 Kiryu smiled. Majima had insisted they stay in their underwear for the rest of the evening, although he had traded his tight pink ones for a purple cotton pair that looked like Kiryu’s boxer-briefs if the pant-legs were shorter. It matched the purple striped apron he wore.

 When they sat down to eat the grilled sea bream, Majima kept glancing over and smirking. It took a minute for Kiryu to figure out why, but when he did he had to smile. “I would’ve agreed to a fight yesterday if I knew it would make you this happy.”

“Don’t tell me you’re surprised,” Majima said, “and you already admitted you’re lookin’ forward to it, right? Unless you’re already too worn out.”

“I’m not worn out,” Kiryu said. Everything had changed since they’d last had a real fight. The sparring matches on the beach were fun, but that was different. They were planning a rooftop fight in Kamurocho, and maybe for the first time, Kiryu knew he wanted it just as much as Majima. 

 After dinner, the anticipation became too much to spend any more time just sitting on the couch. They decided to save the rest of the video for the next day, and head out for a drink before they went to the Hills. Kiryu had to smile. He was starting to feel impatient, but Majima was downright buzzing. 

“You could save a step and skip the shirt,” Majima said, handing Kiryu the red shirt he’d worn earlier that day. 

“Heh, I’m wouldn’t want to copy your style.”

 Majima was back in his leather pants, and seemed to be considering the cropped snakeskin jacket. Kiryu came over and put a hand on his waist. “Wear whatever you want, Goro,” he said in Majima’s ear, “just make sure it’s easy for me to take off at the end of the night.”

 Majima leaned back against Kiryu’s chest and held out his arm. “Look, I got goosebumps from that sexy voice of yours.” He turned his head to the side so he could look back, “And as far as easy access, ya should’ve told me that before I put these back on.”

 He slapped his hip over the leather pants. Kiryu kissed his neck. “I can’t wait to fight you,” he whispered. With a dramatic sigh, Majima swooned and went limp in his arms. Kiryu chuckled as he struggled to hold him upright. “Come on, I’m thirsty.”

 The bustle of Kamurocho at night was like nothing else. The liveliness of the crowd was strangely comforting, and with so much to look at, it kept Kiryu from gawking too much at Majima. The cropped snakeskin jacket accentuated his narrow waist, and under the neon lights, the bottom half of the hannya almost shone. That, along with the way the tanto jutted out of the back of his leather pants as he walked, made him look even more intimidating than usual. Like a provocative villain out of an action movie or a video game. Kiryu had stopped questioning exactly why that drove him wild, but it did. 

 They stopped into Outer Space, a bar in the Champion District that neither of them had been to before. It resembled Shellac in size, but it was lit with blacklights and neon, and played loud, upbeat surf rock. There were about a hundred figures of assorted aliens on the shelves.

 Majima looked at the cocktail menu and ordered for them, shouting at the bartender over the music. After a minute, the bartender placed two drinks in front of them. A bright green cocktail topped with dry ice was set in front of Kiryu. Majima’s was orange, with a sparkler sticking out of the tall glass. Majima laughed, and Kiryu was thankful they were the only customers.

“You said you were getting me a whiskey,” Kiryu said loudly over the music. 

“It is! Whiskey, Midori, and lemon,” Majima replied, looking pleased. Kiryu pointed to the other drink and raised an eyebrow. “Mango liqueur and ginger beer.”

 It was far too loud to talk, but once their drinks had stopped bubbling and sparkling, they drank and watched fifteen minutes of a black and white sci-fi movie that played on a TV between two lava lamps. 

 As soon as they left, Majima grinned. “What a tacky little place! It might be my new favourite bar.”

“The drinks were surprisingly good.” 

 Majima let out a mischievous laugh. “I’m gonna take Saejima there. He’ll hate it.”

 Kiryu didn’t understand that logic, but he wasn’t going to question it right now. They walked, uninterrupted, till they reached Kamurocho Hills. 

 There were two men leaving through an employee access door near the large front entrance, which had been locked up for the night. 

 Even at a distance it was easy to tell who they were. Without his helmet, Nishida didn’t stand out in a crowd, but Minami did. He wore the brown suit pants he had on earlier, but with a ripped red tank top. By the way they were both laughing, it looked like he was telling Nishida a funny story. 

“Boss!” Minami said when he saw them coming. He held up a grocery bag with wires hanging out of it. “Got ‘em all!”

“Pipe down,” Majima snapped. He looked at Nishida, “All of them?”

“Yes, Boss. There were six cameras on the roof, one in the elevator, and two in the penthouse hallway,” Nishida said. “We’ll do a better sweep later with the guys, but the roof should be free.”

“That’s what I like to hear. Now scram.”

“Thanks,” Kiryu said as the two subordinates jogged towards a black sedan. They both waved at him in response, while Majima opened the employee door from a large ring of colour-coded keys. 

“How did they know to do that?” Kiryu asked as they walked across the plaza towards the shopping mall. 

“I gave ‘em a call when you were in the can. Nobody’s making a tape outta tonight.”

“That’s considerate.”

 The mall was large, bright white, and empty save for a couple of security guards who all looked happy to see Majima. Kiryu recognized one of them as a once-homeless man from West Park.

 They passed the closed stores as Majima explained how they had to deal with the city to get it built the way they wanted, and how long that took because they had to do everything with as much legitimacy as possible. The mall looked clean and modern, and Majima looked at it with well-deserved pride.

 They continued through some narrower  hallways marked Employees Only, and through another locked door that led into the large lobby of the tower. There was a restaurant and bar on one side, which looked to be at capacity, and a handful of people who milled outside the inner doors. 

 Majima motioned for Kiryu to follow him past the first set of elevators, to another two down a separate hallway. 

“Check this out,” Majima said, once they were inside the elevator. He held down all three buttons for the parking levels at once till a low tone sounded. The elevator took them down and opened to a hallway with red carpeting and pink paper lanterns. “It’s a short walk to Purgatory right through there.”

“Impressive,” Kiryu said. 

 The doors closed again, and Majima hit the topmost button. “We’ll have to go up the stairs from the the top floor, so you’ll get to see the penthouse suites.”

 Kiryu nodded, “They said they took the camera out of the elevator?”

 Majima grabbed his ass in response. Kiryu pulled him forward by his waist and kissed him, dipping him backwards until another tone announced their arrival at the top floor. “You’re gettin’ good at timing out elevator kisses, Kazzy.”

“That’s a skill I can only show off with you.”

“That’s just the way I like it,” Majima said. He looked down the dark hallway, tapped his foot, then turned left. “On second thought, let’s go right up. I’ll show ya the penthouses some other time.”

 He took Kiryu’s hand, and led the way into a stairwell, taking the stairs two at a time. Kiryu followed right on his heels and out onto the flat, concrete expanse of the roof.

 The light was dim but sky had cleared, and a bright sliver of the waning moon shone down. They walked over to a railing on one side, and looked out over the glowing lights of Tokyo. “What a view,” Kiryu said. 

“Yeah, it’s somethin’ all right.” Majima said. He had already started stretching his limbs, using the railing to help. Kiryu smiled at his impatience. He cracked his knuckles and walked to the middle of the large open space. “I’m ready when you are, Goro.”

“Remember, Kiryu-chan, I promised Haruka I’d send ya home without a scratch.” He shrugged off his jacket and brandished his dagger, “Don’t make a liar outta me.”

 So that’s the way it was going to be? Kiryu could handle that. He nodded, then in a series of quick, practiced movements, pulled off his shirt and threw it to the side. “Ninety percent power.” 

“Ninety? Oh, hell yeah!” Majima laughed. Kiryu readied himself, because Majima was already running towards him, teeth bared in a maniacal grin. 

“Kiryu-chan!”

 Kiryu waited till the last possible second and shifted to the left. He usually went right, using Majima’s blind spot to his advantage, but Kiryu knew that’s what he expected. Sure enough, Majima veered to his left with a thrust of the dagger. Kiryu didn’t hesitate, and twisted his hips, delivering a punch to Majima’s ribs. The blow connected, but not as hard as it could have, as Majima was already leaping out of the way. 

 Moonlight glinted off the front edge of Majima’s shoe, suddenly dangerously close to Kiryu’s face. He blocked the jumping kick and pushed the leather-clad leg away. Majima used that momentum, and as soon as he landed, his other foot slapped hard against Kiryu’s shoulder. Kiryu pivoted before the blade got close, and shoved Majima back to buy himself a few seconds. 

“You’re holdin’ back,” Majima said as they circled each other. “C’mon, Kiryu-chan, give it to me.”

 They weaved around each other without making much contact. Despite the excitement, Kiryu found himself hesitating, and he could tell he wasn’t the only one. Kiryu tried twice to grab him, but Majima dodged each time. The third time, Kiryu was finally able to take hold of his arm and pull him close. “I’m not the only one holding back, Nii-san.” 

 Majima’s eye widened, then he shrieked in delight as Kiryu shoved him backwards. He immediately darted into a spinning slash. Kiryu dodged, and landed a hit to the abdomen, sending Majima backwards again, his shoes scraping across the concrete. 

 Majima jumped forward once more, and the real fight began. This is what Kiryu remembered. The danger, the challenge, the unique thrill of meeting his match in battle. They traded increasingly hard blows as they fell into that familiar rhythm. It was just as electric, as intoxicating as it was years ago, made all the better because of their increased intimacy.

Majima spun upside-down and kicked him in the chest. Kiryu blocked the next blow and countered with his own kick. Majima grimaced as it hit, but it didn’t slow him down. He used Kiryu’s momentum to pull himself behind and grab Kiryu around the neck. A knee hit Kiryu’s side, and Majima’s tongue swiped against his neck, sending a wave of adrenaline and arousal through his body. He grabbed Majima’s arm before he could put him into a full headlock, and bent forward, pulling his sparring partner up and overtop of his head. 

 Somehow, Majima landed on his feet in a low crouch, spinning away before looking back, his expression wild, hungry. Sexy. He flipped the dagger and slashed his way forward as a warm summer wind blew towards Kiryu, almost as if Majima had called on it. Beautiful. 

 Kiryu managed to sidestep the blade and grab Majima’s right arm. When he tried to punch, Kiryu caught his left fist with his other hand. Gripping each wrist, Kiryu rushed straight ahead, making Majima step quickly backwards to avoid tripping, till they reached the door to the stairwell. 

 Majima’s eye widened as his bare back hit the metal door. Kiryu continued forward and kissed him. Majima made a noise of surprise, then eagerly returned the kiss. Kiryu still had a tight hold on each wrist. Majima tried to move his hands, but Kiryu didn’t let him until he heard the tanto clatter to the ground. 

 The second Kiryu’s hold loosened, Majima twisted his arms free and slapped them on top of Kiryu’s shoulders. He jumped up and clamped his legs around Kiryu’s back. Kiryu grabbed under his thighs and pressed him into the door again, thrusting his hips forward as Majima’s fingers dug into his back muscles. As intense as this felt, Kiryu could help but smile. All our fights should end like this, Majima had told him months prior, when they were lying together after a fight on the beach. Kiryu hadn’t stopped thinking about that. 

 Majima was sucking on his bottom lip. It  made Kiryu burn. He jammed a hand between them and groped till his fingers traced the outline of the prominent erection beneath Majima’s leather pants. 

“Yes,” Majima hissed as Kiryu undid his pants. 

 He wasn’t ready to let Majima down yet, so as they kissed, Kiryu managed to get the leather pants and underwear pulled down to his thighs. Majima grunted as Kiryu’s hand slapped his bare ass, then held it firmly. 

“Give it to me, Kaz,” Majima growled in his ear, squeezing his legs around Kiryu’s waist, “right fuckin’ here and now.”

 Kiryu held him up against the wall and kissed him again. He felt down Majima’s body to where his pants were bunched mid-thigh. Earlier he thought he felt… yes, there it was. Majima had stashed a bottle of lube in his back pocket. Kiryu only fumbled slightly as he removed it. Majima hummed his approval when the cap clicked open. 

 Kiryu pulled back enough to look at Majima’s face. His eye was half closed, looking drunk with need. Electricity surged between them, and Majima smirked. With one hand, Kiryu managed to get some lube in his palm. He kissed Majima roughly as his fingers delved between his cheeks. Majima’s legs faltered, but Kiryu kept him pinned against the door. 

“Don’t worry ‘bout that,” Majima said between deep breaths as Kiryu began to prepare him, “Fuck me now. I can take it.”

“You’ll take it when you’re ready,” Kiryu replied, and slid a finger in. Majima’s whole body shuddered. He tried to squirm his way into going faster, but as frantic as Kiryu felt, he wasn’t about to cause Majima any pain in that area. Kiryu’s tongue slid along Majima’s lips as he added a second finger, then a third. 

 With a muffled whine, Majima squeezed Kiryu’s back, his arms, anything he could reach from his precarious position. When Kiryu deemed him ready,  he let Majima’s legs down. “Turn around, Goro.”

 Majima nodded and kissed him one more time. Kiryu turned him around and positioned Majima’s hands against the door. 

“Fuck, Kaz,” Majima said as Kiryu stood behind him and undid his own pants, “got any more orders for me?”

 Kiryu pulled Majima’s ass back, so he was leaning forward with his hands braced against the door. “Yeah, one more,” Kiryu replied. He positioned himself and slowly pressed in. “Don’t cum.”

 Majima gasped in shock. His hands curled into fists as Kiryu began a series of shallow thrusts. He let Kiryu hold him steady as he rocked forward, then his head turned sharply to the side. “Kiryu-chan,” he growled. 

 Kiryu wrapped an arm around Majima’s waist. “Don’t worry, I’ll take care of you,” he promised, “just not yet.”

 Majima let out a loud groan as Kiryu drove into him again, harder this time. He watched Kiryu from the corner of his eye. When he moved his hand, Kiryu grabbed it and put it back on the door. “Not bein’ able to touch ya… is downright cruel.” 

 Kiryu hesitated, but Majima pushed his hips back to meet him. “Don’t stop on me, gorgeous,” he said, his voice low. “You want me to wait, I’ll wait, but ah, ah fuck, you’re not makin’ it easy.”

 Satisfied that Majima wasn’t actually unhappy, Kiryu smiled. “You can take it, remember?”

 Majima’s laugh sounded delirious. Kiryu didn’t wait another moment. He leaned his chest against Majima’s back, pushing him further towards the door. He licked the back of Majima’s shoulder as he thrust into him, over and over. It felt like an extension of the fight. The same delicious tension, without anything holding them back. Kiryu grit his teeth as he could feel his body already tensing up. Everything about Majima was so inviting, so hot. He could barely think. 

“You good?” Kiryu asked. 

“Too good,” Majima gasped, “I can hold on, Kaz. For you, I can do it, but ya gotta, ah please…” he trailed off and hit the side of his fist against the door in front of him. The taut muscles of his shoulder and back flexed, and Kiryu bucked forward involuntarily. 

“I’m so close,” Kiryu whispered, speeding up to an almost brutal pace. “Soon as I finish, I’m going to suck your cock.”

 Majima squeezed him tight as his fist hit the metal door again, the loud bang temporarily drowning out the slap of their joined bodies. After a loud moan, Majima clapped a hand over his mouth. Kiryu did his best to stay quiet as well. They were far above and away from any prying eyes, but they were still out in the open. 

“Goro,” Kiryu moaned. He wrapped both arms around Majima and climaxed inside of him, his breath hot on Majima’s back. 

 Kiryu kept hold of Majima’s warm body as he came down from that high. As soon as the fog cleared from his eyes, he kissed Majima’s back and slowly pulled out. “Stay there,” he said as he tucked himself back into his underwear.

“Kaz,” Majima whispered. He still braced himself on the door. Kiryu touched his arm, and moved underneath it so he was kneeling between Majima and the door. Kiryu reached out and touched the hard length of his cock, swollen and dripping without even being touched. Majima shut his eyes tight. “I ain’t gonna last.”

 Kiryu kissed the tip, and Majima let out a strangled gasp. “Don’t hold back, Goro,” he said, then took him deep inside his mouth. Majima’s hips bucked, and Kiryu kept a hand on his hip, encouraging the movement and the speed. His other hand cradled Majima’s tight balls.

 The metal door was warm against Kiryu’s back. Majima’s hand was in his hair, holding Kiryu steady as he fucked his mouth. Even though Kiryu felt spent, he loved the feeling. He loved the way Majima moaned, the way his body moved, even the taste of pre-cum at the back of his throat. He loved it all. 

 Within minutes, Majima was sucking in breath like a marathon runner. Kiryu moaned around his cock, and Majima shuddered and came into his mouth. As Kiryu swallowed him down, Majima’s hit the door one last time.

 The loud sound of the door reverberated through Kiryu, who was still pressed up against it. He shuffled into a sitting position and pulled Majima down into his lap, cradling his shaking, limp form as he caught his breath and finally went still. 

“That was… one helluva fight.” Majima said, and kissed Kiryu’s jaw. 

“Heh, maybe our best fight,” Kiryu replied, “I think we both won.”

“I sure feel like a winner. A winner with his ass hangin’ out.” He pat his pants pockets, which were around his knees, “I got pocket tissues in here somewhere.”

 They broke apart to clean themselves up. Kiryu brushed dust off the knees of his pants and went searching for where he’d thrown his shirt. He returned to where Majima was leaning against the railing and handed him the cropped jacket. They dressed and Majima lit a cigarette, which they shared in comfortable silence, with Kiryu’s arm firmly around Majima’s waist.

“Your beard grows in pretty fast,” Kiryu said as they finished the cigarette. Majima’s goatee was almost back to its usual length. 

“It’s ’cause I’m so damn manly,” Majima replied, touching his chin. “Though if ya keep starin’ at me like that, you’ll have me blushin’ like a gal.”

“I’ll never get tired of staring at you.” Kiryu pulled him closer and kissed his temple. “You make me so happy.”

“I’d say we broke the place in pretty good. There’s probably a grand opening joke I could make, but I can’t think of one right now. Maybe somethin’ ‘bout bottoming at the top of the world? I dunno, ya fried my brain.”

 They returned to the door as Majima laughed at his own incomplete jokes. Kiryu touched the dent Majima had made in the metal. “Wow.”

“Told ya I was manly,” Majima said with his version of a wink. He unlocked the door and they walked back to the elevator. Neither of them could stop smiling as they descended back to ground level. 

 After stopping at the Poppo for ice cream bars and more beer, they arrived back at Majima’s apartment. There was something special about following Majima home after a fight. Neither of them brought it up, but Kiryu knew Majima felt it too. They drank one last beer on the couch as they iced their injuries, which were nothing more than a few bruises each. Through it all, they kept a hand on each other, even when they brushed their teeth side by side in Majima’s small bathroom. 

“That was so fuckin’ hot, Kaz,” Majima mused after they’d settled into bed. 

“Which part?”

“All of it, the whole day, but I was thinkin’ of the way you stuck it to me on the roof.”

“Heh, yeah. A damn good day.” Kiryu said. Majima nestled into his shoulder, naked and warm. “I didn’t hurt you too much, did I?”

“Nah, ya barely touched me. Even if ya had, you sure as hell made it up to me right after. I’ll be thinkin’ about that every time I look at my tower.”

 Kiryu smiled. “Yeah, me too.” His eyes felt heavy, and he ran a hand over Majima’s back for a few minutes, they both drifted off to sleep.  

Chapter 67: Domestic Bliss

 Waking up with sore muscles after a fight in Kamurocho was a familiar feeling, but it was much more comfortable waking up in Majima’s large bed than on a small cot in the back of the Serena. Kiryu stretched and examined his shoulder, which was bruised, but didn’t look bad. It wasn’t anything that would scare his kids, and that was what mattered. 

 They’d forgotten to turn the air conditioner down last night, and it was blasting cold air from the living room. Kiryu pulled the bedding up over himself and Majima, who was lying next to him on his back with his mouth wide open. It was strangely cute. The movement made Majima stir. He yawned loudly and blinked before looking over at Kiryu. 

“It’s fuckin’ freezin’ in here. Ya shoulda woken me up.”

“I just woke up a second ago,” Kiryu said, rubbing warmth into Majima’s cold arm. 

“Be back in a sec.” 

 Majima grabbed one of the blankets, loosely wrapped himself in it, and sprinted into the next room. The sound of the air conditioner stopped, and Kiryu heard loud thumping as Majima ran back to bed and into his arms. “Warm me up, Kiryu-chan!”

 Kiryu smiled and held him tight, staying nestled under the covers till they were both warm. Majima’s face was pressed into Kiryu’s throat, breathing so steadily that Kiryu wasn’t sure if he’d fallen back asleep. After a minute, he sighed and kissed Kiryu’s neck. “You were so fucking good to me last night, Kaz. I still can’t believe it. That was top-tier fantasy, wildest dreams type of amazing.”

“Heh, yeah. I guess it’s too late to cancel that dinner tonight and spend all day in bed?”

“Don’t tempt me, gorgeous,” Majima said. He reached up and ruffled Kiryu’s hair. “Dinner ain’t till seven. We got lots of time to lounge around here and pretend like ya aren’t leavin’ tomorrow.”

 Kiryu brushed his hand through Majima’s hair. “Good plan.”

 Majima’s tired smile sent a warm rush through Kiryu. He felt exhausted, but he couldn’t help rolling them over till Majima was on his back in order to kiss him breathless. Majima was soon tightly wrapped around him, his long legs around Kiryu’s lower back, with one heel running over his ass. 

“Not that it matters at all,” Majima said, staring up at him, “but I kinda love that I was your first guy.”

“Yeah. Uh, well, except…” 

 Majima’s eye widened, “Except? Except what?” He released Kiryu from his grip and pushed him so they were both on their sides, facing each other. 

“It’s nothing, there was just this uh, adult video game…”

“Haw? You played a sexy video game?” Majima laughed, “Kiryu-chan, that don’t count.”

“No, I didn’t play it. I… voiced one of the characters.”

“What?” Majima practically screamed. “Why don’t I know about this?”

“Because it was embarrassing. They roped me into it without telling me what kind of game it was.”

 One of Majima’s eyebrows raised, “There were ropes?”

“No! By the time the scene turned, uh, sexual…” Kiryu trailed off, mortified, “it was just easier to just get it over with and get paid.”

“What’s it called?” Majima asked. Kiryu didn’t like the mirth in his eye. 

“I don’t remember. The title was in another language. Amigo something. I never played it, obviously.”

“I’m gonna track it down if it’s the last thing I do. I’ll call Nishida-”

“Don’t call Nishida,” Kiryu snapped, “I don’t need him knowing about it. I don’t need anyone knowing about it.”

 He could almost see the wheels in Majima’s head turning. “Amigo something. The Kamiyama bros. would know, and if they don’t, they can track down just about anything. I’ll leave yer name out of it when I ask.”

 Kiryu sighed, “Why did I even bring it up?”

“How sexy was it? Did ya have to do all the sounds? Tell me everything.”

 Kiryu closed his eyes, but could feel Majima growing closer. Sure enough, when he opened his eyes, Majima’s face was so close to his own that their eyelashes touched. Kiryu chuckled and pushed him away. “I’ll tell you, but you can’t talk till I’m done.” 

 Majima nodded and kept his mouth shut. Kiryu took a breath and recounted the story as best as he could remember. When he explained how he was made to do three takes of a loud sex noise, the amusement on Majima’s face was too much to look at directly. Despite a lot of fidgeting, Majima remained silent.

“Then I left, with a lot less cash then he promised. I had to meet up with people afterwards, and I couldn’t look them in the eye.”

“Ya done? Can I laugh now?” Majima asked.

 Kiryu nodded, and Majima erupted into laughter. Kiryu couldn’t help but smile, his embarrassment easing because of the absurdity of the story. 

“You look great like this,” Kiryu said, running his fingers over Majima’s arm. He was tangled in the satin sheets, his head propped up by his hand. “Don’t ever get rid of this bed, or the sheets.”

“Ya know, I never had any strong feelings ‘bout the colour red,” Majima replied, rubbing the shiny sheet between his fingers, “then a few years back, you showed up and I suddenly wanted to surround myself in it.”

 He smiled that rare, shy smile, and Kiryu had to kiss him. He hadn’t payed too much attention to the particular shade of the red bedsheets, but they were a good match for the shirt he was wearing when he got out of prison. It was touching, even if it bordered on obsessive. He brushed Majima’s hair away from his good eye and caressed the side of his face. His cheek was rough, in need of a shave, and perfect. 

“Maybe I’ve said this before, but you make me feel like the most important man in the world,” Kiryu said, “I want to make you feel just as important.”

 Majima didn’t look away.  “I already do, Kaz. Still feels weird, but I’m gettin’ used to it.” His voice sounded dry. “I won’t get rid of the bed.”

 They kissed again, and again. Neither of them pushed for anything further, and it wasn’t till Majima’s stomach let out a growl that they finally broke the embrace and began the search for their unworn pyjamas.

 Majima opened a small closet door in the living room, which held a washer/dryer set, a rarity in a building like this. Kiryu prepared a simple breakfast as Majima started with the laundry. Kiryu hummed to himself as he got things ready. 

“Sing louder if you’re gonna sing, Kiryu-chan!” Majima called from the other room. Before Kiryu could start singing, the washing machine started, drowning out any singing he could have done. Majima appeared in the kitchen a minute later, looking annoyed. “Damn loud machine.”

“It’s not as loud as mine. Izumi and Shiro used to get scared every time I used it.”

 Kiryu handed him a bowl, and they moved to the couch to eat. Majima turned on the TV but kept the sound low. They ate their breakfast as the washer churned. The room wasn’t as cold with sun shining brightly through the large windows, but their legs stayed against each other as if they needed each other’s body heat. 

 Majima put down his empty bowl and sighed, resting his head back against the couch as he smiled at Kiryu, who had already finished his meal. 

“Damn, Kazzy. Twelve hours later and I’m still feelin’ the afterglow.”

 Kiryu leaned in and kissed his cheek. “Heh, that was the first time anyone’s ever licked my neck during a fight.”

“That’s the kind of personal touch ya only get when you’re fuckin’ the guy you’re fightin’,” Majima said with another bright smile. “Speakin’ of, wanna finish that DVD? I think we got three fights left to watch.”

 They settled closer together on the couch and hit play. Kiryu was surprised that Majima’s machine remembered where they’d paused yesterday. His older DVD player didn’t do that. The scene faded on Majima, looking miserable at the top of the Millennium Tower. Kiryu rubbed his leg against Majima’s. 

 The third best fight, according to the Florist’s video editor, happened last year in 2009, when Majima had led Kiryu down into the “abandoned” arena and surprised him with a hidden crowd. 

“So much has changed since then,” Kiryu mused. 

“Yep. Some of it was even good.”

 Fighting in the arena was always exciting. Kiryu didn’t like bragging, but he did love showing off his best skills in front of an audience.  

“Look at us, Kiryu-chan. We’re great together.” Majima said. Kiryu had to agree. 

 When the fight ended, Kiryu pulled Majima up from the arena floor, and the camera zoomed in on their faces. The noise of the crowd drowned out what they were saying, but the Majima on-screen looked thrilled, even though he’d just lost. They clasped hands for longer than was necessary, and once again Kiryu mentally kicked himself for not realizing how he felt sooner. 

“You almost had me there,” Kiryu said. 

“It was close, but you were too damn good.” Majima replied. The scene changed to footage of Majima stretching in the middle of the empty batting centre. “Hmm, which one’s this? We fought a few times in there.”

“I think it’s the last one. You called it our final showdown,” Kiryu said. “It was the day before…. uh, before-”

“Got it,” Majima said, saving him from stumbling over his words. 

 Kiryu couldn’t help feeling addled, watching himself approaching the batting centre, hand in hand with a very young Haruka. It was the day before the Millennium Tower explosion. He’d already lost Shinji, Reina, and Kazama, but at that point, he still had a sliver of hope that he could still get through to Nishiki. At that point, Haruka still had a mother.  

 Haruka wasn’t the only one who looked younger. Kiryu looked at his face from five years ago. Fewer frown lines, fewer scars. He’d also learned a lot about taking care of kids since then. Now, there was no way he would take Haruka to watch him fight if he could help it.

 The camera cut to the inside of the lobby, and the pair walked over to the UFO Catchers and vending machines. Kiryu pulled out several bills and handed them over. Little Haruka rushed to the vending machine while Kiryu greeted Nishida, who had offered to watch her during the fight. 

“Look at her, she’s so tiny,” Majima said, then leaned forward. “Wait, what happened to her arm?”

 Kiryu leaned forward to get a better look. “Oh, that.” There was a tear and a small bloodstain on Haruka’s hooded jacket, so small that Kiryu was surprised Majima had noticed. “One of Jingu’s men shot at her not too long before this. Luckily it only grazed her arm. You can’t even see the mark now.” Kiryu shook his head, “I don’t want to think about what would have happened if Date hadn’t been there to help.”

“That sick fuck.” Majima spat. “I didn’t know about any of that! You got him right? Tell me you at least beat the shit outta the guy who shot her.”

“I did.” It wasn’t something Kiryu thought about much. If he did, the guilt would eat him alive. “Haruka was so brave…”

 On-screen, Majima was saying something to Kiryu. They both looked serious. There was no backup this time. It was just the two of them, in their final showdown. 

 Majima hit pause. “Kaz, if this is dredging up too many shitty memories, we don’t have to watch it.”

“No, I’m fine. I told you before, without you making me a better fighter, I wouldn’t have survived what happened the next day. And this was a good fight, even if you were still recovering. I want to see it.”

“I was ready the second they let me take the bandages off, but Nishida forced me to wait an extra few days.”

“Good for Nishida.” Kiryu said. He couldn’t help feeling the sting of regret. Majima must have been pretty badly hurt if Nishida was able to force him to do anything. 

“The guy does have his moments.”

 The fight had begun, and already it was easy to see that it was a tier above the rest from that year. A culmination of countless street fights and one-on-one matches. 

“This looks like how it felt last night,” Majima said. “Look at how much power you’ve got in those hips. Better than a boxer, but boxers don’t kick like that.”

“Heh, kickboxers do, but I’ve only fought a few of those. That comes from watching the way you weave around. See?”

 The camera angle wasn’t the best, but it was still obvious the way Majima easily twisted out of the way of Kiryu’s kicks, throwing his tanto up in the air as he launched his own attack. 

“Doin’ that hurt like hell ‘cause I was still healin’ from the gut wounds. Still a helluva lot less painful than gettin’ kicked by the Dragon of Dojima.”

“You’ve only gotten better,” Kiryu said, and kissed Majima’s cheek again. 

 Majima turned his head, “So have you,” he said, brushing his lips against Kiryu’s. The kiss was soft and short, but its effect was strong. They both turned back in time to see Majima flying through the air from one of Kiryu’s kicks. Kiryu wouldn’t have laughed, but Majima started cackling and it was hard not to join in. Majima slung his arm over Kiryu’s shoulders, and Kiryu sighed as he leaned into the touch. 

 When Majima finally stayed down, the camera cut to the batting centre lobby, where Haruka and Nishida were watching. The bench they sat on was covered in snacks, and they each had a Bun-chan on their laps. Haruka clapped and cheered for Kiryu, while Nishida pulled a first aid kit out from under the bench. 

“Cute,” Majima said. “Hard to believe she’s a teenager already, even after spending those two weeks with her.”

“Yeah. All the kids have been changing so much lately. I should call them after this.”

 Majima sighed, “I wish I could go back home with ya.”

“I miss the kids, but I love being here with you. I…” Kiryu replied. 

 He furrowed his brow as he considered what he wanted to say. Majima paused the video while he thought. Finally, Kiryu spoke again. “I’d started to hate this city. Even a few months ago I thought there was nothing for me here but death and heartbreak, but there’s a lot more to it than that. It’s a part of who I am.” He took Majima’s hand, the one that wasn’t already on his shoulder. “Thank you, Goro, for making me remember how much I love Kamurocho.”

“Careful, Kazzy, I’ll get jealous,” Majima said, but he looked happy. 

 Kiryu kissed the top of his shoulder, right on the edge of his tattoo. “Being here made me addicted to you all over again.”

 Majima’s high pitched laugh was almost a giggle, and he held Kiryu’s head to his neck as he delivered another kiss to the soft skin of Majima’s shoulder. 

“This is sweet, darlin’, but I wanna see what this guy thought our number one fight was.”

“Whatever you want,” Kiryu said in a low voice, and turned his attention to the TV.

“Whatever I want,” Majima murmured to himself as he hit play, “I like the sound of that.”

 The final fight on the video was their big arena battle when Kiryu returned to Kamurocho in 2006. The scene began with fireworks, and Majima making his entrance into the ring, showboating as the raucous crowd cheered. 

“Those fireworks were set up just for you, Kiryu-chan. I got singed a couple times on the way in, but lookin’ at this, I’d say it was worth it.”

“Heh, you really were on fire that night.”

 Majima laughed and grabbed Kiryu’s shoulder, “It’s startin’, and look at your face!” Majima pointed at the screen, “You almost look happy.”

“I was glad it was you I was fighting, even if I didn’t admit it then.” Kiryu said. On screen, Majima drew his blade and stood at the ready with that familiar wild smile. The bell sounded, and Kiryu kicked just as Majima slid on his knees, right under Kiryu’s extended leg. It was an impressive start, and the editor seemed to think so too. The move repeated from three different angles. 

“Tch, I knew the Florist was lying when he said they didn’t tape the fights.”

 Majima nodded. “‘Course he was, it’s the only way Purgatory’s stayed open this long. When some nosy cop or politician starts talkin’ about shuttin’ it down, the Florist carts out a video of them or one of their buddies gambling or cheering on the fights. The Florist makes most of his money from Purgatory and his info dealing, but he rakes in a lot of cash from blackmail.”

“Hmm… you’re sure Nishida found all the cameras last night?”

 Majima hit pause yet again. “Even if he did have somethin’ set-up on another building, we’ll be fine. Between the two of us, we got more leverage than just about anybody. You’ve got the Florist’s trust, and he’s heard my threats.” He put a hand on Kiryu’s knee. “If he even thinks about trying something, there’s a lot of worse shit I could do than ruin a wedding. We’re safe, Kaz.” 

“Thanks… for thinking ahead.” Kiryu said. He put his hand over the one Majima had placed on his leg. “Are you going to dinner with the pink on?”

 Majima flexed his hand, his fingernails still brightly painted. “Nah, I’ll take it off before we go. Daigo gives me dirty looks when I’m eatin’ with gloves on, and I don’t want Saejima to… I’ll take it off.”

“I’ll help you.”

“After this, Kaz.” Majima hit play. Yet again, the two of them watched themselves fight. Majima’s grip on Kiryu’s knee tightened every time a particularly good hit landed, till finally, the match ended with Majima flat on his back, and the screen faded to black. 

“I don’t know if that was our best fight,” Kiryu said, “but it did have the best camera work.”

“I think this is my new favourite movie. Can I keep it here? I’ll get a lotta use out of it for those cold lonely nights without ya.”

“Heh, sure. I want to watch it again with you when I’m less… tired.”

Majima chuckled, “I finally wore ya out, huh?”

“For now. I might have a different answer tonight, or tomorrow morning.”

“I’m with ya there.”

 

Ten minutes later, Kiryu held Majima’s hand as he carefully worked with nail polish remover, making sure none of the bright pink polish stained his pale skin. He could tell Majima was watching him, looking at him with such open affection that he had to smile. Kiryu paused to kiss the inside of his wrist. “This was a nice colour on you.”

“Thanks, darlin’.”

 These little moments were just as important to Kiryu as anything else they’d done this week. As much as he wanted to let Majima know that, he knew Majima was close to his limit on how much “sappy shit” he could take in one day. Instead he turned his thoughts to this dinner they were going to tonight. 

“Whatcha thinkin’ about, Kaz?” Majima asked. How he sensed the change, Kiryu had no idea. 

“I’m wondering what I should say to Daigo about the two of us.”

“Do ya have to tell him anything? I know you two are close, or ya were way back when, but it ain’t the chairman’s business who you’re fuckin’.”

“If that was all we were doing, I wouldn’t need to say anything, but this is more important than that. You’re a big part of my life now. I just hope he’ll understand.”

“Trust me, he’ll understand. And hey, even if he didn’t, he looks up to you so much that he won’t be a dick about it. If ya wanna tell him, just let me know and  I’ll drag Saejima off so you can talk alone.”

 Kiryu nodded and went back to work, nearly finished taking the pink off Majima’s fingertips. “I don’t know if anyone’s strong enough to drag Saejima anywhere.”

 Majima scoffed. “The hell’s that supposed to mean? I’ll drag the both of ya around tonight, just you wait!”

“Heh, we’ll see,” Kiryu said. He still felt apprehensive, but a lot less so than if he didn’t have Majima by his side. They would navigate this together, and that in itself was a comfort. 

 

 

Notes:

Thanks for your patience. I hope to have a more regular update schedule soon, but life just gets in the way sometimes. I appreciate everyone who’s made it this far in the story! Thank you!

Chapter 68: Dinner With the ‘Jimas

In the afternoon, Kiryu called the orphanage. After four rings, a loud, unmistakeable voice answered.

“Morning Glory!” 

“Taichi, how’s everything going?”

“Uncle Kaz! Guess what? We had a fire!” 

“What?”

“And marshmallows too. Nakahara-san and Saki came over, and Mikio brought um… bongo drums!”

 Kiryu sat down. The images that had flashed through his mind of the orphanage on fire dissipated as Taichi talked about how they sang songs around the campfire, and how Koji had taken a real liking to the bongos. When he finished telling the story, Kiryu’s heart rate had returned to normal. 

“I’m glad you had a good time. Is Haruka back from school yet?”

“Um, I think so. I’ll go check.”

 Kiryu heard rustling, then distant yelling. Majima, who had been busy with laundry, was looking at him quizzically. Kiryu smiled at him, and he went back to what he was doing. 

“Uncle Kaz?” 

“Hi, Haruka. Is everyone doing okay?” Kiryu asked. He knew he’d get a more accurate and probably less-concerning answer from her. 

“Everyone’s great. The Ryudo Family came to visit us last night and they brought us a bunch of fish and marshmallows, so we had that for dinner and then we made a campfire. Shiro and Ayako are making soup right now, and everybody’s going to do all their homework tonight, because they’ll be too excited when you get home tomorrow.”

“Good. I probably won’t be home till just before bedtime.”

“Yes, I remember. We miss you, but don’t worry, we’ve got everything under control.”

“Heh, I don’t doubt that.” Kiryu said, which was true aside from those few seconds when Taichi mentioned a fire. 

 “I hope you’re having a nice time too. Say hi to Uncle Majima for us.”

“Yeah, I will. Thanks for doing this for me, Haruka. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“See you soon, Uncle Kaz. Have a good flight!”

 The call ended and Kiryu smiled, then was immediately startled by Majima, who had crept up right next to him beside the couch.

“Are they keepin’ outta trouble?”

“As far as I know, yeah.”

 Majima laughed when Kiryu explained his moment of worry. He sat down on the armrest, then slid over it and into Kiryu’s lap, a motion that more resembled a house cat than a mad dog. 

 Kiryu ran his hand up Majima’s bare back. “Speaking of the kids, you’re still spending the New Year in Okinawa with us, right?”

“Yep. I’ve already started planning it out with Nishida,” Majima replied, touching Kiryu’s chest like he’d never seen him shirtless before. “He’ll get the chance to run the show while I’m gone.” 

“Didn’t he do that when you came over the first time?”

“That was different, I wasn’t sure how long I’d be out there. This’ll be a trial run for when I’m gone for weeks on end.” Majima’s fingers circled each pectoral muscle, “I’m thinkin’ three weeks this time? A few days before Christmas, then into the New Year.”

“That sounds great,” Kiryu said. He pulled Majima in and kissed him, his breath hitching when Majima squeezed his pecs. He took Majima’s hand off his chest and held it. “Actually, there’s something I’ve wanted to do for the kids for years. I was going to do it last Christmas but couldn’t because I was injured, and it would be a lot easier with two people.”

 Kiryu explained what he wanted to do, and Majima not only listened, but offered enthusiastic advice, then told him what he had already planned for the holidays. December was still four months away, but Kiryu was already looking forward to it. 

 

 The afternoon, like most of this trip, went by far too quickly. They left the apartment to search for the candy and books the kids had requested before Kiryu left. Majima wanted to buy them all too many sweets, and Kiryu had to put his foot down for the sake of their health. As an alternative, Majima took him to a stationary store that had stickers and art supplies. He made sure all the kids had some kind of gift, and insisted on paying for all of it despite Kiryu’s protestations. 

 Back at the apartment, Kiryu packed what they’d bought in his bag, which was now stuffed full. Before long, it was time to start getting ready for dinner. 

“Who are you calling?” Kiryu asked as Majima put his phone to his ear. 

“Daigo-chan!” Majima said loudly after a second. “We aren’t wearing ties tonight, are we?” He turned to Kiryu and made a show of rolling his eyes. “Yes, Boss, I’ll be wearin’ a shirt, but this ain’t a business dinner, so don’t wear yer stuffy suit. How about that big white coat ya used to wear?”

 Kiryu could almost felt Daigo’s annoyance through the phone. He was going to speak up on Daigo’s behalf, but remembered what Majima had said about bothering him for his own good. As odd as it sounded, he decided to trust Majima’s strategy for the time being. 

“I mean it,” Majima continued, “no dressin’ like an old fart. If I see a starched collar I’ll slice it right off. You already talked to the big guy, right? The car’s picking’ him up first, then you. We’ll meet ya there…” a short pause, “Yep. And go in through the back. I got it all worked out.”

 Soon, they dressed and were ready to go. Kiryu had bought a deep blue button-down shirt that Riona and Ayako had helped him pick out the last time they went shopping. When Majima saw it, he put on a similar red shirt for himself, and wore dark grey pants instead of leather. 

“You’re not wearin’ the jacket, are ya?” Majima asked as he traded the gold necklace he’d been wearing for a similar, thicker chain. “It’s too hot.”

“Not if you aren’t wearing one.” Kiryu replied, rolling up his sleeves. 

 Majima wrapped an arm around his waist and looked at their reflection in the full-length mirror near his bedroom closet. “We make a good-lookin’ pair, don’t we, Kaz?”

“Yeah, we do,” Kiryu said, and turned Majima so he could kiss him one more time before they left. “You smell so good,” he added, his lips lightly brushing against Majima’s. 

“You’re tryin’ to make us late, aren’t ya?” Majima said with a happy sigh. “If this was any other night, I’d let ya.” He kissed Kiryu hard, then pushed him backwards. “C’mon, gorgeous, this’ll be a good time.”

 

 Half an hour later, their cab dropped them off outside a large, busy restaurant. The waiting area at the front was packed full of people, and they had to step carefully around a large dessert display to find an employee. Kiryu couldn’t hear what Majima said to the young hostess, but she bowed and led them through the crowd. 

 The dining room was lit with purple and blue lights, which made it look more like a nightclub than a restaurant. The electronic music and booming laughter of foreign businessmen added to the effect. Kiryu wondered why they chose this place, as it didn’t seem like an ideal place to talk. They continued down a hallway in the back, and were led into a small, private room with a single table, gentle lighting, and soft music. Much better. 

“Can I bring you something to drink?” the hostess asked as they sat across from each other. 

“Nah, we’ll wait for the other two.” Majima said. 

 The waitress bowed and left them alone. 

“This doesn’t even look like the same restaurant,” Kiryu said. The walls must have been soundproofed because the din of the crowd they’d passed was non-existent.

“The front part’s a tourist trap, but the new head chef knows his stuff, and it’s worth it for that alone.” Majima’s foot touched Kiryu’s ankle. “You’re too far away from me, Kaz.”

“Heh, yeah.”

 Majima pulled his foot back as the door opened again. Daigo and Saejima entered with the same hostess. They were both well-dressed, and Kiryu could see Majima nodding his approval at the lack of neckties. Despite the August heat, Saejima was also wearing the long green jacket Kiryu had given him when he left Okinawa. 

“Yo, what kinda place is this, Kyodai?” Saejima asked. He put his jacket over the chair next to Kiryu and sat down. “That front area’s a damn zoo.”

“Relax, the food’s good. And didn’t I tell ya to come in through the back?”

“Felt like a hassle.”

 Majima turned to Daigo, who had just sat down beside him. “I guess that hair ain’t glued down after all, eh, Daigo-chan?”

 Daigo frowned while Kiryu hid a smile. It was the first time he’d seen Daigo without slicked back hair in a while. It made him look younger. “Some of us like to change our look once in a while, which is more than I can say for you, Majima-san.”

 Majima looked back at Kiryu and Saejima, “Look how quick he’s gettin’ with the comebacks. I’m so proud.”

 Saejima scoffed. “Didja ever think you’d get so far up the ranks that you could say shit like that to a Tojo chairman and keep yer digits?”

 A flash of shock passed over Majima’s face. Kiryu might not have noticed it if he didn’t know him so intimately. He plastered on a toothy smile and leaned towards Saejima. “Course I did. I had good motivation.”

 Saejima stared Majima down but didn’t respond. Majima didn’t look away. This went on long enough that Kiryu started to feel awkward, so he ignored them and turned to Daigo. 

“How’s your mother doing?”

Daigo sat back in his chair. “Good, really good. I don’t know if you remember the apartment I grew up in, but she finally sold it in January.”

“If course I remember that place,” Kiryu said. “One of the first jobs I ever did for the Dojima family was guarding you two while your father was out.”

 Daigo chuckled. “Right. Mom didn’t like how young you were.”

 Kiryu could clearly remember Dojima Yayoi shouting at her husband over the phone about how he’d sent a child to look after their only son, her hand twisting around the telephone cord like she was ready to strangle someone. An intimidating sight for a new recruit, but Kiryu liked her immediately. 

“Is she still in Tokyo?” Kiryu asked. 

“No,” Daigo replied, “she’s living in a small town next to the ocean. I’ll tell you where when we’re not in public.”

 Saejima was looking at his menu, but he lowered it. “Didn’tcha say she was runin’ a festival this week?”

“She talked about it like she was running a military operation. I won’t be surprised if she’s in charge of the whole town by next year.” Daigo said fondly  

 Saejima nodded, “Must run in the family.”

 Daigo looked pleased by that and uttered a thank you under his breath. 

 The conversation stayed light as they talked about the menu, which was fancier than Kiryu was used to, and had far more than just sushi. There were items from many different countries, with a lot of foreign words that Kiryu didn’t understand, but what he could make out looked interesting. 

 Majima was describing the Outer Space bar they’d gone to the night before when the waiter entered the room and asked if they were ready. Saejima grumbled about the food being too fancy, but the waiter recommended a grilled lamb dish that made him perk up. Kiryu decided on noodles with prawns in black bean sauce.

“Is that everything?” the waiter asked after they’d all finished ordering. 

“Yep, and do me a favour and send over  the manager,” Majima said. 

 The waiter was clearly surprised, but he bowed and hurried off with a meek right away, Sir. 

“Again, Majima-san?” Daigo asked with a sigh. Kiryu looked at him, but Daigo shook his head dismissively before he could ask a question. When Kiryu looked at Saejima, he looked equally confused. 

 The manager looked slightly out of breath, but appeared right away. “How can I be of service?” 

“I had some thoughts about that big-ass dessert case ya got up front,” Majima said. 

“Thoughts, Sir?” 

“Yeah. Ever thought of stickin’ it against the left wall? It’ll clear up the space.”

 The manager looked relieved, “To be honest, I’ve had the same thought. The owner wanted it there so the customers could see the new desserts.”

“Hmm, well, tell him that customers are complaining. It doesn’t make me want a dessert, it just makes us all think, damn, I wish this big-ass thing wasn’t in my way. Now I’m pissed off before I even order!”

Majima’s tone was over-dramatic, and Kiryu had to keep himself from smiling. 

“I’ll pass along the message, Sir. Thank you,” the manager said, looking almost as charmed as Kiryu felt. 

“Good man. We’ll make sure to have a look at the desserts before we split.”

 The manager thanked them again. After he left, Daigo looked at Kiryu and Saejima. “He does that kind of thing all the time.”

 Kiryu could believe that, but Saejima snorted a laugh. “That’s not the Majima I remember.”

“He wasn’t friendly with store managers?” Kiryu asked. 

“When he was twenty? He didn’t give a shit about that, and he sure as hell wasn’t offerin’ anybody business advice.”

 Majima rolled his eye, while Daigo leaned towards Saejima. “What was he like? It’s hard to imagine him as anything other than… the way he is now.”

 Kiryu was curious as well. He’d seen plenty of different sides of Majima, but nobody has Saejima’s perspective.

“Heh heh, to start, he was a mean little bastard. He mouthed off to anybody he thought was talkin’ down to him. But he was stronger and smarter than anyone I’d ever met, and loyal as it gets.”

 Majima put his elbows on the table, “And nobody, and I mean nobody, had better depth perception.”

 The only one to chuckle at that was Kiryu, which made Daigo shoot him a strange look that somehow reminded him of Haruka. Kiryu avoided Daigo’s gaze, but it made him feel guilty, as if he were lying by omission. It took him back to 2006. Kiryu remembered the pained look on his face as Daigo unloaded a decade of hurt and betrayal. Despite everything that had happened earlier this year, Kiryu didn’t want to be the cause of any more of Daigo’s pain. 

 That settled it. Kiryu knew he had to tell Daigo about him and Majima. It was the right thing to do. He’d do it once they’d finished eating. As soon as he’d finalized that decision, Kiryu finally felt like he could relax.  

 The waiter arrived with their drinks, beer for Saejima and Kiryu, a red wine for Daigo, and a vodka martini for Majima. They raised their glasses together and drank, then Saejima told a story about a raid he and Majima went on the year after they’d met, where they took out forty men on their own.

 Aside from Majima adding clarifications, this continued till a tall man of about thirty walked in. He wore a white chef’s uniform and held a platter of assorted nigiri sushi. 

“Zhi Long-kun, there ya are!” Majima called as the chef set down the platter. His sleeves were rolled up, and his forearms were tattooed with several fish in different art styles. 

“I came as soon as I could get away from the kitchen, Majima-san. Here, give this a try.”

“Damn, look at the skill of those cuts.” Majima said, smiling at the others. “Zhi Long was just a little guy when I met him. How’re yer folks doin’?”

“They’re enjoying their retirement. They have a place in Nagoya now, and are mostly keeping out of trouble.”

“This kid’s parents taught me how to cook for myself,” Majima said, then lowered his voice, “And a hell of a lot about weapons too, but we don’t talk about that part, do we?”

 Zhi Long laughed. “No, we don’t. I’ll be handling the meal for you and your guests personally tonight,” he said with a bow, “please enjoy.”

“Thanks, kid,” Majima said. 

“Thanks,” echoed Daigo as Zhi Long left the room. 

 The sushi tasted fresh and was presented in an artful way that didn’t look too pretentious. 

“Lotta ink for a civilian.” Saejima said.

“That’s what I said last time I saw him,” Majima replied. “He said it was a chef thing. I bet his parents ripped him a new one over it.”

 Saejima shook his head. “Chefs with tattoos, huh. I’ve never heard of that.”

“You’re not alone there,” Kiryu agreed. 

“Heh heh, good. it’s hard to tell what’s normal these days and what ain’t.” 

“Yeah, ‘cause we all lead such normal lives,” Majima said. He elbowed Daigo, who laughed under his breath. Good, Kiryu thought, it was nice to see that there was camaraderie between the two of them and not just annoyance. 

 Kiryu looked back at Majima. “You said his parents taught you to cook. Were they the same couple who ran the Dragon and Tiger restaurant?”

“Yep. Their second location was here on Millennium Tower land, so they raked in a lotta cash sellin’ it. When they sold the Sorenbori place they started travellin’ the world. That kid’s been everywhere.”

 Their meals arrived shortly after they finished the sushi. There was still a strange tension in the air that Kiryu couldn’t put his finger on, but thankfully Majima kept the conversation going, even if it was mostly about food.

 When they were nearly finished, Majima turned to his side. “The chef’ll probably come back in to say goodbye.” he said pointedly to Daigo. 

“Okay?”

“So how about ya say more than two words to him this time. Aren’t you s’posed to be charismatic?”

 As if for clarification, Daigo looked at Kiryu and Saejima. Kiryu was just as perplexed, and Saejima shrugged. “Why?” Daigo asked. 

“Cause he’s a good guy, and closer to your age than any of us.”

 Daigo rubbed the bridge of his nose. “I told you before, Majima, I don’t need help finding friends.”

 Majima shrugged and went back to his food. He’d ordered an elaborate crab dish, and was the last one still eating. Daigo took a long drink of his second glass of wine. 

 Chef Zhi Long did return once the plates were cleared, and Daigo sat up stiffly. Kiryu couldn’t blame him. He felt like he should say something, but Majima had mentioned more than once that Daigo didn’t have many real friends. The way he went about it felt devious, but Kiryu could tell that Majima meant well. 

“What a meal!” Majima said, “Ain’t that right, Chairman?”

“Yes, thank you,” Daigo said directly to the chef, “we’ll have to come back soon.”

 Majima looked satisfied by that, and let the chef get back to the kitchen after he and Daigo promised to come back to try the desserts. After that, their waiter returned and informed them that their bill had already been paid. It wasn’t an uncommon occurrence for a dinner with yakuza officers, but Kiryu had almost forgotten about those kind of perks. He almost wished he’d ordered more food. 

“Alright, we should get goin’,” Majima said, “I rented out the batting centre tonight, and they should be kickin' people out for us pretty soon.”

“Ya coulda told us, Kyodai.” Saejima said, but he didn’t sound unhappy about it. 

“Aw, where’s the fun in that?” Majima replied. He looked at Kiryu, tilted his head towards Daigo, and raised his eyebrow. Kiryu nodded, grateful not to have to ask. Majima hit his foot against Kiryu’s before he stood up, an affectionate and slightly painful show of support. 

“C’mon, bro,” Majima said to Saejima, “let’s leave these two to talk. They can catch up with us in a few.”

 Saejima looked between Kiryu and Majima, then stood up. “Sure.” He slapped Kiryu on the back as he passed like he already knew what was going on. Majima looked back and winked before pushing Saejima out of the room. 

 Daigo looked between the others curiously. Kiryu waited until the door closed behind Majima before he took a deep breath. He moved over into Saejima’s spot to be across from the Tojo Chairman.

He could do this, and he couldn’t stall any longer.

Chapter 69: Nice

 The small dining room felt much emptier without the commanding presence of Majima and Saejima, but Kiryu knew that this conversation had to be one-on-one. Kiryu knew what he needed to say, he just had to figure out how to start. He wished he’d ordered more than the one beer he’d drank at the start of their dinner. 

“Is everything alright, Kiryu-san?” Daigo asked. 

“Fine,” Kiryu said reflexively, then remembered he was trying to be honest. “No, not just fine. I’m happy. Happier than I’ve been in a long time.”

“Oh. That’s… good,” Daigo replied, looking no less confused. Despite the privacy of the room, he kept his voice down. “I figured things must be going well in Okinawa if you were able to come here just for a visit.”

“Yeah, things are stable there now, but that’s not the only reason I’m here.” Kiryu took a breath. “I’ve liked the phone calls we’ve had these last couple of months, but when it comes down to it, I don’t like keeping things from you, even if it isn’t an outright lie.”

“I appreciate that,” Daigo said formally. 

“So, I thought you should know that Majima and I. We’re… together.”

 Daigo stared at his face like he was searching for clues. “Together? You mean-”

“Yeah.”

 Kiryu felt uncomfortable holding eye contact, but didn’t look away. After an long pause, Daigo opened his mouth again. 

“Are you sure?”

 Kiryu narrowed his eyes. “I don’t know if you’re asking me if I’m sure about telling you, or if I’m sure about being with Majima, but either way, the answer is yes.”

 Daigo flinched like he’d been struck.“Forgive me, Kiryu-san. I don’t know why I said that. It’s just… a surprise.” He lowered his head in a show of respect. “Majima-san is uh, a good man, and there’s no doubt that he’s always, well, cared about you, but I didn’t think you felt…” Daigo shook his head and took a deep breath. “What I’m trying to say is that if you’re happy, that’s all that matters.”

“I am,” Kiryu said. He felt defensive, but he couldn’t expect this to be as easy as telling his girls. “I don’t think I need to worry about you being discreet about this.”

“Of course not,” Daigo said quickly, “but can I ask… has this been going on for a while?”

“Since he came to Okinawa at the end of May.”

Daigo nodded. “That makes sense. Majima’s priorities changed after that trip. It was hard to tell if it was because Saejima was back, or because he wanted to raise money for your orphanage, or because of what happened between the two of us. I’m glad it’s a positive reason and not…”

“Because you sent him to jail?”

 Daigo winced, “Yeah.”

“That’s in the past now,” Kiryu said, letting his voice soften, “I know he isn’t the easiest person to get along with, but Majima does think highly of you. We all do.”

 Daigo froze, as if that sentence was far more embarrassing than discussing Kiryu’s personal life. He bowed his head again. “Thank you, Kiryu-san, that means more than you know, and…” He paused once more. Kiryu waited till, finally, Daigo spoke again.

 “People like us don’t get many shots at happiness. It’s easier to keep others at arm’s length, or wait too long and never get the chance to say...” He cleared his throat. “Majima-san can be harsh, and I hope you don’t mind me saying, really annoying sometimes,” Daigo looked up like he was worried, but Kiryu just gave a short nod, “But he’s always been honest with me, and I’ve learned that even when it doesn’t look that way, he takes his work more seriously than anyone. I respect that. I doubt either of you would’ve trusted me with this information if it weren’t serious, so you have my support. If there’s anything I can do for either of you, you know where to find me.”

 It was usually difficult to see Daigo as anything other than an outspoken little boy or a sullen teen, but Kiryu was proud of the maturity he was displaying, even if he did sound stiff and diplomatic. Daigo really was his own man now, and that was just as gratifying as his approval.  

“I appreciate that,” Kiryu said. “Should we get out of here?”

Daigo nodded, and followed him through the busy restaurant and out into the warm evening air. Kiryu felt lighter with that weight off his shoulders. From down the street, they heard a booming laugh that turned out to be coming from Saejima. 

“Ain’t never gonna happen, Kyodai.”

“Can it!” Majima shot back. He took a running start and shoved Saejima with both hands. Not even Saejima’s hair moved, and it drew another laugh from him. Beyond them, an approaching couple turned around and walked quickly back the way they’d come. 

“Told ya so, now knock it off, you’re scarin’ the locals,” Saejima said. He nodded to Kiryu. “Ready to go?”

“What were you doing?” Daigo asked as the four of them walked down the street. 

Majima chuckled, “We used to play this game back in the day where I’d knock the big guy here into the street.”

“You’d try to knock me into the street.” Saejima corrected. 

 It was strange to see Saejima laugh, much less play along with that game, if pushing someone into traffic could be called a game. But maybe he shouldn’t be surprised. Majima was good at bringing out the playful side of people.  

“Where are we going?” Kiryu asked as they continued down the street. They weren’t anywhere near the batting centre. 

 Majima pointed to a neon advertisement above a stairwell for an underground parking garage. “After I went to all the trouble of arranging a car for these jerks, they went and drove here themselves.”

“Ya mean ya told Nishida to arrange it,” Saejima said. “I don’t need a driver, just a car.”

Majima ignored that statement and took the lead down the stairs and across the packed lot towards one of the Tojo’s black sedans. After a few steps he turned around and snickered. “Old habits die hard, huh?”

 Without thinking, Kiryu and Saejima had flanked the chairman as they walked.  

“Heh, I guess so,” Kiryu said. 

 Majima continued to walk backwards, “When’s the last time ya drove around Tokyo, Kiryu-chan?”

“Hmm, a few years, I think,” Kiryu replied, but felt distracted. Majima looked so good in that red shirt that he couldn’t help looking him up and down. 

“Didn’t ya say you missed it? Why don’t ya drive us back?” Majima looked at Saejima instead of Kiryu, who shrugged. 

“I ain’t big on chauffeurs, but I can handle that,” Saejima said. He pulled a key out and handed it to Kiryu as they reached the car, pointing to the fob attached to the key ring. “It’s got one of those automatic door locks. Don’t press that button or it sets the alarm off.”

 Kiryu was familiar with the device, but he nodded for Saejima’s sake and unlocked the doors. Saejima sat in the back seat on the right. Majima slapped Daigo’s shoulder.

“And we’re all good here?” he asked. Kiryu turned to Daigo, just as curious to hear his response. 

“Yes, Majima-san. All good.”

“Atta-boy, Daigo-chan!” Majima replied, and slapped Daigo’s arm again, “Now be a good kid and get in the back with yer Uncle Taiga. Let Mommy and Daddy sit up front.”

 Daigo rolled his eyes, the sullen teen emerging once more. Kiryu was too happy to be bothered by Majima’s antics. “Daigo’s right, you are annoying,” 

“What?” Majima yelled, his sharp voice echoing against the concrete walls of the underground parking lot. Daigo chuckled and took his seat in the back. 

 Kiryu shared a smile with Majima over the roof of the car before he sat down in the driver’s seat. Majima dropped into the seat beside him. 

“Man, I should sit in the front seat more often,” Majima said, stretching his limbs loudly as Kiryu adjusted the mirrors and the seat, “lotsa leg room up here.“

“Kick his seat, Daigo,” Saejima said.

 Kiryu chuckled. Saejima wasn't as stoic as he’d first thought. Or maybe this was just what he was like around someone he considered a brother. He felt that familiar twinge of sadness at the thought of his own lost brother, but did his best to brush it off. 

 Daigo knew. He knew and he as supportive as Majima said he would be. It was a relief, even if they hadn’t broached the subject of Majima eventually moving to Okinawa. They could talk about that another time, Kiryu decided. For now, he was ready to enjoy the rest of the night.

 The car was an automatic, which was a slight disappointment, but the luxury sedan was comfortable, and Kiryu enjoyed being behind the wheel. The drive was smooth, even if most of it was spent in traffic. After Majima finished scolding the men in the back about how patriarchs and chairmen shouldn’t be driving themselves around, he told them about the time he was stabbed at the batting centre, laughing as if it had been a good time.

“So, ya got stabbed ‘cause of Kiryu, went to jail ‘cause of Daigo, and lost an eye ‘cause of me,” Saejima said. “Ya sure can pick yer friends, Kyodai.” 

“Shit, you’re right,” Majima said, sounding completely unfazed by Saejima’s bluntness, “you should all be worshiping the ground I walk on, huh?”

Saejima laughed, while the two others stayed quiet. Kiryu decided it wasn’t the best time to bring up that Majima had also been shot because of him. Instead he focused on driving them into a narrow lane just north of the batting centre, where he miraculously found a free parking spot. 

“I’m gonna get us some snacks or somethin’,” Saejima said as they left the car, “Kiryu, come with me to the convenience store down there.”

“Sure,” Kiryu said.

 After refusing the cash that both Majima and Daigo waved in his face, Kiryu left with Saejima while the other pair went straight to the batting centre. 

 Saejima looked up at the bright M Store sign as they went in. “Did places like this fuck with yer head after gettin’ out?”

“Yeah,” Kiryu said, “after grey walls and bland food it was… a lot.”

“Not just me, then,” Saejima nodded, his expression hidden behind his long hair. They walked through the aisles to the fridge to get the beer and shochu that Majima and Daigo had requested. After picking out a bunch of snacks to go with the drinks, Saejima stopped in front of the pre-packaged meals. 

“Still hungry?” Kiryu asked. 

“That was damn good chow, but they never give ya enough at those fancy places. I’m gettin’ a bento. Might have to scarf it down here before we go back.”

Kiryu picked up a plastic bowl of yakisoba. “Heh, yeah, let’s do that.”

 They set their armfuls of snacks and drinks down in front of the cashier, who scanned the items and heated their meals. Kiryu pulled out his wallet but Saejima stepped in front of him. “Not happenin’, Kiryu,” he said as he handed the cashier his own bills. “It’s the least I can do after ya put clothes on my back and paid my way into town.”

“I wasn’t using those clothes anyway,” Kiryu said, and stepped back, “but thanks.”

“I was gonna cover it even before I got this.”

He handed Kiryu his phone. There was a message from Majima:

 

if u let him pay ur dead  

 

 Kiryu had to smile. “I bought him lunch yesterday and he glared at me so hard I’m surprised it didn’t give him a headache.”

 There was a small counter near the windows, where they removed the plastic from their food and started eating. 

“Majima’s been real generous ever since I got out. It pissed me off at first, but he’s got a lot more to give than he had when we were broke kids. I bet I’d be doin’ the same thing in his shoes, so I can’t get too mad at him ‘bout it.”

“Yeah, he can be really thoughtful,” Kiryu said, “whether you like it or not.”

 Saejima paused. “A guy came to my office today holdin’ a bouquet of flowers and a CD.”

“Good to know The Florist still works fast.” 

“I wasn’t expectin’ him to be an actual florist. Didn’t know what the hell to do with the flowers, so I brought ‘em over to Akiyama’s gal, Hana. She said it’ll be nice to smell somethin’ other than smoke for a change.” He took another bite. “Haven’t listened to the tape yet. Not sure I will.”

 It sounded like there was going to be more to that sentence, but Saejima went back to eating. “But you are going to use it, right?” Kiryu asked firmly, “For the case?”

 Saejima, still chewing, nodded. “Yeah, I’ll use it. The first court date still ain’t for another month. They needed time to make sure there weren’t any more secret folders or other sketchy shit in that prison.”

“I heard.”

 After a minute of comfortable silence, Saejima spoke up again. 

“How much has Majima told ya about his parents?”

“Not much. I got the impression they weren’t great people.”

“That’s puttin’ it lightly. He went from that drugged-up mess straight to Boss Shimano. You woulda known what he was like, right?”

“Yeah.” That name still made his stomach clench. “What’s your point?”

“Point is, Majima’s got a habit of hangin’ on to folks who ain’t good for him. He hides it pretty well, but I’ve seen him get disappointed before, and I know it’s happened plenty more since I left. I don’t wanna see it happen again.”

 Saejima turned and straightened up, suddenly twice as imposing as before. “I like ya, Kiryu, and I ain’t tryna tell ya how to live yer life, but don’t disappoint my brother. You know better than anybody that prison walls ain’t enough to stop me if I got somewhere else I need to be.”

 Kiryu held his gaze. “I’ll do my best.”

 Saejima nodded, the side of his mouth turning up in a slight smile. “You do that.”

 Both men were fast eaters, and they left the M Store not long afterwards. It made Kiryu happy that Majima had someone like Saejima looking out for him. As they walked up the slight hill, they saw a crowd. Without speaking, they both sped up to investigate.  

 On the top step of the batting centre, blocking the door, stood Majima. In front of him were over a dozen strong men in their twenties, almost all of them in baseball uniforms. Some of them brandished bats, even more of them were yelling, and they all looked angry. 

“And private event means private event, ya shit-heels,” Majima said to the group, blowing cigarette smoke directly at them. “Do yourselves a favour and fuck off before this gets ugly.”

 Despite his threat, Majima looked excited. Kiryu had to admit, he felt the same spark. They reached the baseball team, but not before an exceptionally tall man at the back of the group and right in front of Saejima wound up and threw a baseball. Majima dodged it in one fluid motion, then took a drag of his smoke as if nothing had happened. The ball banged loudly against the door behind him but didn’t break.

 Kiryu’s anger flared, but before he could move, Saejima grabbed the back of the tall man’s uniform with one hand, wrenched him backwards off his feet, then flung him like a rag-doll into the crowd, knocking three men down. 

 The men started shouting, but Majima’s shrieking laugh was louder than any of them. He leapt from the top step just as they started to rush him, breaking his fall by landing knees-first on top of some poor guy’s chest and disappearing down into the crowd. 

 They sure were violent for a baseball team, but Kiryu didn’t have time to think about that, because a bat was swinging towards his face. He dodged left and kicked the bat-wielder backwards. His opponent wheezed as he hit the ground, giving Kiryu enough time to move his M Store bag from his right hand to his left, before the next two men attacked. 

 Kiryu still couldn’t see Majima, but he heard him yell “Home run!” and knew he must have gotten hold of one of the bats. It wasn’t till he heard Daigo’s voice that he started to worry. 

 Together, Saejima and Kiryu cut a path through the baseball team with their bare hands. Another uniformed man flew through the air and cleared the way so Kiryu could see the rest of their group. Majima and Daigo were back-to-back near the stairs. Kiryu and Saejima continued forward to join them. 

 Majima had a bat in each hand, and when he caught sight of Kiryu he pointed with one of the bats and yelled “Ten o’clock, Kaz!”

 Kiryu turned to his left and grabbed the fist of a man angling to punch Daigo. The movement was automatic, and strangely familiar. Daigo said a quick thank you, and turned to face what looked like the team manager, one of the few men in a leather jacket instead of a uniform. Majima passed Kiryu one of his bats and they swung in unison at two more attacking players. 

Even though their opponents outnumbered them, it only took a couple of minutes before it was obvious they were easily overpowering the baseball team. The manager, sporting a bloody nose, shouted “Okay! Okay, enough!”

 All but one of the players withdrew, but that man soon crumpled to the ground from a kick to the gut from a metal-tipped shoe. Majima sauntered over to the manager. 

“Don’t come back. This is a nice little family business, and yer team ain’t welcome here anymore.” 

“F-fine, whatever you say.”

 Majima looked at the group of injured and scared men. “Good, cuz Yoshida-han’s got me on speed dial, and I’ll know the second any one of ya steps foot in the place.”

“Yes, yes Sir,” the team manager said, and the men dispersed. 

“Not bad at all,” Majima said, looking pleased with himself, “‘specially since two of ya were only usin’ one arm.”

 Kiryu held up his undamaged bag of snacks towards Saejima, who held his up as well. A booming laugh made several of the men who were limping away yelp in fear, before the four of them went up the stairs and inside. 

 The elderly proprietor, Yoshida, looked tired but grateful. He bowed and thanked them all profusely for taking care of what sounded like an ongoing problem with that rowdy team. He handed Majima a set of keys, and bowed several more times before he left. Majima locked the door behind him, leaving the four of them alone in the batting centre. 

 Daigo brushed his shaggy hair out of his eyes and chuckled. “You knew that team was going to show up, didn’t you, Majima-san.”

 Majima spun the key ring on his finger. “Yoshida and I might’ve got to talkin’ when I said I wanted to rent the place. And he might’ve mentioned a team of jackasses who liked to show up ‘round this time to harass the clientele.” 

“Heh heh, ya damned hypocrite,” Saejima said, “after that big lecture ‘bout not drivin’ ourselves around, ya go and get the sixth chairman into a street fight.”

“Pfft, he had his three best bodyguards with him, didn’t he? And ya can’t tell me that wasn’t fun.” He looked between Kiryu and Saejima and put his hands on his hips. “The timin’ worked out pretty good too, even though you two took yer sweet time. I had to vamp for those idiots for five minutes! What’d ya do, eat a second dinner?”

 Kiryu thought his face was neutral, but something must have given him away because Majima shook his head and smiled. “I knew it.”

 With the M Store bag still in his grasp, Kiryu rifled through the snacks till he found what he was looking for. “If it helps, we got you a salmon onigiri.”

 As he took the rice ball, Majima shot him that genuine smile that made his heart leap. Kiryu would have rushed forward to grab him if they were alone. Instead he just smiled back, then looked back into the bag for the tuna onigiri they’d bought Daigo. 

 After setting out the snacks and drinks, Kiryu and Daigo looked through the large crate of baseball bats that had been there since the early 80s. Majima and Saejima went to get the machines ready. Kiryu wondered how often they’d done this together, as they seemed to know exactly what they were doing.  

“I haven’t been here in a few years. I know I’ll be rusty,” Daigo said, checking the balance on one of the beginner bats, “not that I was ever all that great.”

“You improved a lot in the years after we first came here together,” Kiryu replied, examining the length of one of the heavier bats. 

“Back when I was like, eleven? God, I hope I’m at least better than that.”

 Saejima came over and grabbed the first bat within reach. “It should be workin’ now. I’ll give it a few test swings.”

 He walked into the cage and readied himself. Sure enough, the loud ka-chunk of the batting machine sounded, followed by an even louder thwack of the bat. The ball hit the Home Run sign so hard Kiryu half-expected it to break. 

“Wow,” Daigo said. 

 A second ball released, and Saejima’s bat connected again. Not a home run this time, but there was no mistaking the force in which the ball was hit. “Yeah. Wow,” Kiryu agreed. 

 It made him wonder what could have happened if Saejima had shown any less restraint months ago, when the two of them had fought on the beach outside Morning Glory. Not for the first time, Kiryu was glad they were allies. Part of him even wished they could have a rematch. Heh, maybe Majima really was rubbing off on him. 

 He left Daigo to finish watching Saejima at bat and walked over to the bathrooms at the other end of the lobby. After he was finished and had started washing his hands, the door opened. 

“Kaz, you were pretty as a picture out there.”

“Heh, if I was pretty, so were you,” Kiryu said as he dried his hands. “You were right, Goro, this has been fun.”

 Majima looked pleased. He stood only one step inside the room, and hadn’t moved since the door shut behind him. “It worked out better than I hoped, even if that fight went way too fast.”

“Heh, yeah,” Kiryu said, moving towards where Majima stood. “I should get back out there.”

“Well, ya could,” Majima replied, leaning back against the door. Kiryu was close enough now to see the hungry look in his eye. “Or,” Majima added in a low voice, “or you could stay right here and fuck me till I can’t walk straight.”

 Kiryu stepped even closer. “Tempting, Goro, but you couldn’t be quiet enough.”

“Haw? I can be quiet,” Majima replied in a harsh whisper, “you know damn well I can be quiet.”

 Kiryu leaned his face in, “Not quite enough for what I want to do to you.”

 Majima’s mouth fell open, then he chuckled. “Fine, but soon as we get home-”

“-you’re mine,” Kiryu finished, and kissed him hard on the lips. Majima grabbed the back of his neck and a handful of his shirt, and Kiryu seriously considered changing his mind. Maybe if it weren’t the same night they’d told Daigo, and maybe because it would be painfully obvious what they’d be doing even if they were silent, but now wasn’t the time, not when there was a big, welcoming bed waiting for them at home. Kiryu pulled back to see Majima’s smiling face, and had to kiss him one more time.

“Ya make a good argument, Kaz,” Majima said, straightening Kiryu’s shirt, “now outta my way, I gotta take a leak.”

 Kiryu took a calming breath and fixed his hair before returning to the batting cages. It had been a nice night, and it wasn’t over yet.

Notes:

My deepest apologies for the lack of sex in chapter 69. I hope you still had a nice time reading it.

Chapter 70: Another Night, Another Rooftop

The four men went up to bat, two at a time, as they told each other stories that were mostly filled with some combination of violence and humour. It was sobering for Kiryu to hear. In their youth, he and Nishiki had been involved in a fair share of trouble, but after listening to Majima and Saejima talk about their perilous teenage exploits, they may as well have been saints.

 This continued until they’d drank everything they’d bought, and had eaten most of the snacks. Saejima took Majima down to the M Store again for more drinks, while Daigo and Kiryu took one more round in the batting cages. 

“Damn, foul,” Daigo grumbled, not for the first time. 

 Kiryu would have looked over, but he’d just hit five in a row and he couldn’t stop now. He listened for the machine, and swung. Another hit! That gave him three more runs. If Yoshida were here watching, Kiryu would have won a prize. He waited for his final ball, but heard Daigo swear again and missed it. He grit his teeth at the batting machine like it was to blame, then turned to Daigo in the cage beside him to try and assess out the problem. 

“Hmm… looks like you’re a little too tense.”

 Daigo nodded, “I told you, I’m rusty.” The next ball flew by him after he swung.

“Take a breath, Daigo. You need to stop anticipating it.”

“Uh huh,” Daigo replied. He was able to hit the last ball, but it veered sharply to the left, resulting in another foul. “Maybe I need another drink.”

“Heh, that wouldn’t hurt.”

 They left the cages and sat down in the lobby to wait for the other two to come back. Daigo shook out his right hand, and Kiryu noticed his knuckles were split. 

“I know,” Daigo said when he saw Kiryu looking, “my form is rusty too. I don’t get into a lot of fistfights these days.”

 If Kiryu had his way, Daigo wouldn’t have gotten involved today, but it was too late to mention that. “Doesn’t Saejima have a friend who runs a dojo around here? Maybe he could help you brush up.”

“Yeah, but the sensei there is… I don’t know how else to say it, he’s a weird little man who doesn’t look like he could win a fight against a child. I don’t think it would be a good fit for me.” 

“Heh, fair enough,” Kiryu said. How that Daigo had mentioned it, Kiryu remembered that Majima had given a similar description of Saejima’s odd friend.  

“That dojo’s right where the Pocket Circuit place used to be. I didn’t know it was closing down till the Fighter called me a couple of years ago to ask if I wanted to keep my trophy. The one I won when I was thirteen.”

 Kiryu chuckled, “Did you keep it?”

“I don’t have it on display, but it is in my apartment, yeah. I still have no idea how he got my cell number,” Daigo said, running his hand through his hair. “Do you remember that tournament?”

“Yeah,” Kiryu said, “you’d gotten great at customizing your car that year. It was no surprise you won.”

 There had been a lot of turmoil in the clan at that time, and the elder Dojima excelled at making enemies. Kiryu had long since proven himself to Yayoi, and at her request, he was brought in to keep an eye on her and Daigo till the immediate threats were dealt with. Even after things had settled down, they’d continued to go to the Pocket Circuit Stadium together. 

“You told me you couldn’t enter yourself because you were too busy, but you came to every race to cheer me on. I don’t think I ever thanked you for that.”

“You didn’t need to. I liked having somebody to talk to about Pocket Circuit. Nobody my age gave a damn.”

“I remember the final day. You were watching with my mother and all the other parents. Some of the kids thought you were my dad. Mom liked that. She said it made her feel young.” Daigo smiled, “I didn’t have a problem with it either.”

 Kiryu nodded. The importance of that statement wasn’t lost on him, but it was difficult to know how to respond. “I’m glad you kept the trophy.”

 Right then, Majima unlocked the door and walked in with Saejima on his heels. “C’mon, boys, we’re goin’ to the roof.” 

“Sure, why not,” Kiryu replied. He and Daigo followed as Saejima led the way up the back stairs to the top of the batting centre.

“Think it’s still there, Kyodai?” Saejima asked, setting the drinks out from his M Store bag. 

“It was ‘bout a year ago,” Majima replied, walking over to the far corner of the roof and leaning around a large rusty pipe behind the large air conditioner. “Yep, still there.”

 Kiryu followed him to see what they were talking about. Majima stepped back and gripped his shoulder as he drew close. “It’s at the base of the pipe, the carving in the metal.”

 It was hard to resist leaning into Majima’s touch. With great reluctance, Kiryu walked past him to examine the pipe. It was an odd angle, and he had to crane his neck to see, but there ‘it’ was. Kiryu expected to see Majima and Saejima’s names scratched into the pipe, but instead he saw a long string of obscenities. Kiryu looked back at Majima and found him grinning. He had to smile back. 

“Dumb as hell, I know, but it was the funniest thing in the world for two idiot kids,” Majima said, cracking open one of the beer cans and handing it to Kiryu. Daigo took a look as well, followed by Saejima. 

“Wasn’t there a nasty drawin’ of a woman too?” Saejima asked, holding his hands in front of his chest to indicate large breasts. 

 Majima snickered, “Different rooftop, Kyodai. That building ain’t even there anymore.”

“Heh heh, guess I can’t get too broken up about losin’ that.”

 They all found makeshift seats that overlooked the empty batting centre below and continued drinking. Saejima pointed out a few more tall buildings that weren’t around twenty-five years ago. 

 Kiryu was a few cheap beers away from feeling fully drunk, but Daigo was starting to look red in the face, and Majima had begun to lean into his shoulder. The sky had started to clear, and the city lights reflected off the remaining clouds. Kiryu pointed out the last sliver of the waning moon, a habit he’d picked up from living with the kids, but the men nodded as if it were interesting. 

“Kiryu,” Saejima said as he lit himself a cigarette, then held his lighter out to light Daigo’s, “got an important question for ya.”

“Sure.” Kiryu lit his own smoke and passed his pack to Majima. 

“Majima’s been tellin’ me about all those little kids ya live with. Is he really good with ‘em or has he been exaggeratin’?”

 Majima leaned in and stared at Kiryu, eye wide. 

“Heh, he’s great with them. They all keep asking when they get to see him again.”

“See? I ain’t a liar,” Majima said. “Just the other day i showed ya that drawing lil’ Eri-chan made for me. Did ya think I drew it?”

“‘Course not,” Saejima replied, “it was too good to be your work.”

 Everyone chuckled except Majima, who looked suddenly furious. 

“Ya can all fuck off. And you! You ain’t allowed to laugh at that one!” Majima yelled, and smacked Kiryu’s arm. 

 Kiryu smiled and put a hand on Majima shoulder, “It’s okay, Nii-san.” He could feel Majima relax as the flash of anger cooled. Apparently he wasn’t the only one who noticed the change. 

“Damn, did that really work?” Daigo asked Saejima, “Now I know who to call when Majima gets in one of his moods.”

“You’re gettin’ real mouthy, kid. Ain’t it past yer bedtime?” Majima asked, but he smiled as he spoke.

“I’m not going to apologize for being much, much younger than you, Majima-san.”

 Kiryu was ready for another burst of anger, but Majima threw his head back and laughed. “You’re lucky Saejima and I swore we’d never fight up here again. Otherwise you’d be toast, Daigo-chan.”

 Daigo looked at Saejima, “Should I ask?”

“Ain’t much to that story. We started punchin’ each other and Majima fell off the side and down into that net,” Saejima said, pointing to the area above the batting cages. 

“Haw? Fell off? I don’t remember fallin’, I remember gettin’ thrown,” Majima said. “Those nets ain’t built to hold a man. If I’d eaten a bigger breakfast that day I might not be talkin’ to ya now.”

 Saejima shook his head. “Took a while before I could laugh about that one, right, Kyodai?”

 Majima nodded, and Kiryu looked down at the net. He didn’t even want to try to picture that. Daigo frowned and looked a little sick.

“Didn’t stop me from jokin’ about it,” Majima said after the silence stretched a little too long. “Took us fifteen minutes to get me untangled and down from there.”

He took a swig of the beer he was drinking, made a face, then passed it to Kiryu. The beer was mediocre, and wasn’t as cold as it should be, but Kiryu had no problem finishing it. As he took a drink, he caught Saejima and Daigo sharing a look he didn’t understand, but decided not to question. 

“Glad we did this,” Saejima said, looking up at the sky again. His rough features looked softer, less harsh. After taking a long drag from his cigarette he blew a smoke ring up into the night air. 

“Yeah,” Daigo agreed, “I needed a night off.”

“Sounds like you all did,” Kiryu said. 

 Daigo nodded, “I hope you’ll come back sooner than later, Kiryu-san.” He looked up to watch Saejima’s smoke rings fade into the breeze. “It’s rare to see you here when there isn’t some crisis going on.”

“Heh, I’ve been saying that to myself since I got here. I’ll try.”

“Great. Now, as much as I hate to agree with Majima-san,” Daigo said, ignoring Majima’s loud scoff, “I do have to be up early tomorrow and should probably get going.”

“Yep,” Saejima agreed, standing up to stretch, “this was a good time.”

 They finished their smokes, gathered their empties, and called a cab, leaving the black sedan behind for one of their men to pick up tomorrow. After Majima did a thorough check to make sure the doors were locked, they waited out front for the taxi. It was interesting to see how much he and Saejima cared about this place. Kiryu remembered Majima getting protective of the batting centre years ago, and it made a lot more sense now that he’d met Saejima and heard their stories. 

 Kiryu felt that twinge of sadness again, and couldn’t help wondering what it would be like if his own brother were with this group tonight. 

 For starters, Nishiki would’ve gotten more frustrated than Daigo if he didn’t hit any home runs. He always used to switch bats if he wasn’t doing well, blaming his failures on the cheap equipment. He also probably would’ve tried to one-up Saejima with his own stories. When they were still lower ranking Tojo men, Kiryu used to have to call him out for exaggerating their wealth and importance. And Majima? Nishiki had never forgiven Majima for beating him up the night the two of them first met. Kiryu couldn’t imagine them getting along now. Even so… he wanted his brother there all the same. Nishiki would have insisted on paying for all the booze, taken them to an even fancier restaurant, and fought alongside them with a smile, so long as no one messed up his hair.

 It would always hurt to think about Nishiki, but it helped that Kiryu was in good company tonight. It made him appreciate  and even envy the bond between Majima and Saejima, which was still strong despite their long separation. 

“Lost in thought, Kiryu-chan? Or have ya had one too many?” Majima asked, suddenly right by his side. Daigo and Saejima were a few steps away, looking at something on Daigo’s phone. 

“Heh, no, I don’t feel that drunk,” Kiryu replied. “Thanks for making the night a good one. The baseball team was a nice touch.”

 Majima nudged Kiryu’s shoulder. “Figured I had a fifty-fifty shot of everybody gettin’ real pissed off about it, but looks like it was worth the risk.”

“Well, a heads-up would’ve been nice.”

“Oh no, it’s too late to get huffy about it. Ya had yer shot and ya missed the window.”

“Huffy?”

 The taxi pulled up before he could say any more. Saejima took the front seat, while the other three sat in the back, with Majima in the middle. He put his arm around Kiryu “to give Daigo-chan more room”, squashing Kiryu into the side of the car and snickering. Kiryu tried not to smile but was unsuccessful. 

 Daigo was first to be dropped off. His apartment building was north of Kamurocho, and looked appropriately classy for a man of his rank. Daigo said his goodnights, and tried to offer Saejima money for the ride, but was refused.  

“Wait till the door shuts behind him,” Saejima told the driver as they watched a doorman greet Daigo and let him inside. They waited till Daigo waved through the glass door after it shut, then headed for Saejima’s apartment. Majima took his arm off of Kiryu and shifted over. Kiryu discretely touched his leg to stop him from going too far. Majima didn’t look over, but he kept their knees touching, grinning ear to ear. 

 Kiryu hadn’t heard Saejima give his address, but he wasn’t surprised when they stopped only two blocks away from Majima’s apartment. He knew Majima had set him up with the place, and he figured he’d want to keep him close. 

“Good seein’ ya, Kiryu,” Saejima said, then nodded at Majima, “Kyodai.”

 They reached their last stop, and Majima gave the driver a generous tip before they walked inside and right into the waiting elevator. Kiryu put his arm on Majima’s back and felt his posture change. Kiryu rubbed his hand along his spine as Majima sighed heavily, relaxing further under his touch. 

“Tired, Goro?” Kiryu asked. 

“Not that tired,” Majima replied with his version of a wink, “and damn happy to be bringin’ ya home.”

“Yeah, me too.”

 Majima smiled at him. He’d only seen flashes of this warm, loving smile while they were out. This smile belonged to Kiryu, and a wave of affection came with it. He touched Majima’s cheek and rubbed his thumb over the side of his rough goatee. The doors soon opened to Majima’s floor, and they strode down the hall at a fast pace. 

 Once they were safely locked inside the apartment, Majima pushed Kiryu against the wall. It was becoming a habit. They’d spent nearly every hour of the last few days together, but they kissed like they’d been starved. Kiryu undid the eyepatch strap and pulled it away. Majima’s exposed face was also something that belonged to him. He kissed the small mole under Majima’s left eye, and was treated to another of those dazzling smiles. 

 After taking a short time to settle in, Kiryu took hold of Majima’s shirt and half-dragged him to the bedroom, then began to undo buttons. After both their shirts were gone, Kiryu planted kisses over Majima’s shoulders.

“I missed ya, Kaz. Even with everything out in the open, it ain’t the same as this,” Majima said. 

“Mmm,” Kiryu responded, preoccupied with the feeling of warm, taut skin against his tongue. 

“You really do have my back, don’t you?” Majima asked quietly.  

 Kiryu straightened up and touched Majima’s cheek again. “Of course.”

“You love me.” It wasn’t a question, but Majima looked like he needed an answer.

“I love you,” Kiryu said. He leaned in and kissed his other cheek. “I love you.”

“Kaz,” Majima whispered, then pulled him closer for another kiss. Kiryu ran a hand though his hair and held him so he could go back to kissing his throat. Majima sighed. “I know I was bein’ a pain in the ass tonight…”

“Yeah.”

“That’s all you’re gonna say?”

“Yeah.”

“Ya got shit taste in men, Kiryu-chan.”

 Kiryu couldn’t help himself. “Heh, yeah.”

 Majima thumped him on the back and laughed. The sound turned into a long moan when Kiryu grasped the front of his pants, then undid his belt with one hand. 

“Goro,” Kiryu whispered in his ear, “I’m going to worship the ground you walk on.”

“What? That shit was a joke, Kaz.”

“Not to me.”

 They stood facing each other, with Majima’s back to the bed. Kiryu buried his face into the soft skin of his neck, moving his tongue down his chest and over the hard expanse of his abs till Kiryu was kneeling, he looked up at Majima’s face and took a breath. “You’re so beautiful.” For once, Majima actually looked like he believed him. 

 Kiryu was closely watched as he unzipped Majima’s pants and let them fall. He’d grown to love being the object of Majima’s undivided attention. The confidence boost that came with it was intoxicating, and making Majima happy was just as addictive. He rubbed his cheek against the front of Majima’s underwear and heard a sharp gasp from above. 

 With his hands on Majima’s hips, Kiryu looked up, smiled, then spun him around. Majima made a high pitched yelp that turned into a giddy laugh. Kiryu pulled his briefs down, the pink and purple striped pair that Kiryu especially liked, then took that and his socks off, leaving him naked and facing away. 

“Kiryu-chan,” Majima whispered when Kiryu’s lips brushed against the skin at the back of his thigh.

 Kiryu ran his hands up both tattooed legs and over Majima’s ass, stopping to kiss the red sakura flowers and run his tongue along the black lines. Kiryu tapped the inside of his thigh, and Majima widened his stance, giving Kiryu the chance to cradle his balls with one hand, as his other ran down the cleft of Majima’s ass. 

“Put your hands on the bed,” Kiryu said. 

 Majima did so, leaning forward at a right angle, giving Kiryu the easy access he wanted. 

“Kazuma.” 

 It was only one word, but Majima’s anticipation was clear. Kiryu breathed against his skin and could feel the tension in his strong thighs. Majima’s ass was all muscle, but there was enough to grip in his hands and spread. When Kiryu’s tongue touched skin, the answering whimper made him throb. He remembered how flustered Majima had been the last time he’d done this. In their time apart, Kiryu had gotten himself off just by thinking about how it had turned Majima into a quivering mess. 

Majima made no attempt to be quiet as Kiryu’s tongue circled his hole and licked at the sensitive skin. When his tongue pushed beyond the rim, Majima moaned shamelessly. Kiryu shifted where he knelt to try to ease the pressure of his own erection, which was now straining against his pants. 

 He guided Majima forward so he was bent further over the bed, his stomach pressed into the plush mattress with his ass in the air. Kiryu hummed his approval and squeezed his firm ass cheeks, drawing a low moan from Majima. Kiryu smiled, then bit down on the left cheek. Majima yelped, then laughed deliriously as Kiryu rubbed his palm over where he’d bitten. 

 Kiryu ran one hand up the inside of Majima’s thigh, following the outline of his tattoo up till he cupped his tightened balls. The giddy laughter turned into another uninhibited moan as Kiryu continued with his mouth. Majima’s hips thrust forward down to the bed as Kiryu swirled his tongue, grabbing his hip to hold him steady. 

“Kaz, please. Fuck,” Majima groaned.  

“Relax, Goro,” Kiryu said in a soothing tone, “I’ll give you what you want.”

“Relax? How’m I supposed to relax when- ah.”

 Kiryu had run his finger around his hole. “Is this what you want?”

 Majima turned so he could see Kiryu and scowled. “Ya think what I want is to have to beg for it?”

“Heh, sorry.”

 Kiryu stood up and ran his hand over the inked hannya, then wrapped both hands around his partner’s slim waist and helped move him onto the bed. Majima turned and landed on his back. The scowl had disappeared and was replaced by a look of pure desire.

 Kiryu got rid of the rest of his clothes, then grabbed the lube and got onto the bed. He slathered his hand and ran it between Majima’s legs, starting at his hard cock, and along his balls, his fingers caressing the tender skin beyond till he pressed into his hole, using his fingers to finish opening him up. He leaned down and licked a line up Majima’s cock, which thanks to the lube, tasted strongly of cherries. 

“You love that, don’t ya, Kiryu-chan,” Majima said, his voice strained as Kiryu took him as deep into his mouth as he could. “You love…ah, sucking my dick.”

 Kiryu looked up and hummed in agreement, working his fingers in and out till he was sure Majima was ready. As much as he wanted this to be all about Majima, he needed him close. He needed to feel that hard, beautiful body right against him, and he knew what he needed to do to get them there. 

“Hang on a second,” Kiryu said, and started to arrange the pillows at the head of the bed. 

“Don’t make me wait, Kiryu-chan. Fuck, I’m dyin’ for ya,” Majima whined. 

 The over-dramatics made Kiryu smile. He kissed Majima’s arm, then positioned him on his left side. After laying behind him on the pillows, propped up on his elbows, Kiryu kissed the back of his shoulder, pulled him close, and picked up his right leg, rubbing himself against Majima’s backside before lining himself up. 

“Fuck,” Majima said again as Kiryu pushed inside, slowly, inch by inch. Majima’s muscles clenched around him before he relaxed, searing hot and smooth as the satin bedding that surrounded them. 

“You feel so… perfect,” Kiryu murmured, pulling Majima till he was lying almost right on top of him, his chest pressed against Majima’s back as they began to move together. Majima’s head fell back against his shoulder as Kiryu’s hand held his abdomen. With his other hand still on Majima’s raised leg, he guided their movements, a slow, sensual rocking. Majima turned his head to the side and looked at him through a half closed eye. 

“You did this for me,” Kiryu whispered, “the first time you… fucked me, you did it like this.”

 Majima nodded, then lunged forward to kiss him. Kiryu let go of his leg and took hold of Majima’s hard, leaking cock. Majima made a sound that made Kiryu buck his hips and forget what he was about to say. When he remembered, he took a deep breath. “I needed you to know how much it meant to me. To show you… how good it felt.”

“Kaz,” Majima moaned, clenching down on him hard again, “feels so fucking good.”

 Kiryu kept going, ramping up the speed and force as he held Majima against him. He could feel his legs tremble and his cock twitch as they writhed together. 

 Majima laid his head back on Kiryu’s shoulder again, breathing so fast he was panting. He reached his shaky hand behind him to touch Kiryu’s face. “I’m close, Kaz. Fuck, I’m so close.”

“You want to… like this?” Kiryu asked, unable to form complete sentences. 

“Just like this,” Majima said, his voice straining almost as much as his muscles. Kiryu slammed into him while he jacked him off, hard and fast, till Majima’s back arched. His whole body shuddered as his torso was splattered with his release. Kiryu grunted at the sight and came, wringing him out as Majima clenched around him.

They lay still for a while, with Kiryu’s arms wrapped around Majima, his lips against the back of his shoulder till his heartbeat returned to normal. After they’d caught their breath, Majima made a deep, contented sound. “You were right, gorgeous, this was a helluva lot better than a quickie in the batting centre bathroom.”

“Yeah,” Kiryu said, still dazed, “much better.”

“If I can walk, I’ll be back in a minute,” 

 Kiryu didn’t let go. “Let me. You relax.”

 Majima chuckled, “Sure, I’m convinced.”

“Heh, good.”

 Kiryu returned after a minute with a towel, a glass of water, and a pack of smokes. Ten minutes after that, Majima ran his hand through his hair and proclaimed himself “too fuckin’ sweaty”, so they made their way over to the cramped shower. It was hard not to wonder if Majima wanted Kiryu to bathe with him purely to hold him upright, but Kiryu was happy to oblige. He was leaving tomorrow, and didn’t want to be further away from Majima tonight. 

 Fifteen minutes later, they were clean, dry, and back in bed, staring at each other in the dim light between lazy kisses, till they drifted off to sleep in each other’s arms. 

Chapter 71: Angel of the Morning

 Kiryu stirred from sleep. The room was dark, but something was rustling on the other side of the bedroom. 

“Goro?”

“It’s too early, Kaz. Go to sleep,” Majima replied. His voice was far away, but sounded unusually soothing. Kiryu fell back asleep almost immediately. 

 Later, that same soothing voice roused him again, while warm fingers trailed over his bare chest. 

“Kazuma? Wake up, baby.”

 Baby? The last time he’d been called that was… Kiryu’s tired eyes opened slowly and he touched the hand on his chest. It wore a pink, fishnet glove with a black bow at the wrist. When Kiryu looked to his left, he was jolted fully awake by the sight of her. 

“Goromi?” Kiryu whispered reverently, “You… wow.”

 Two days ago, Majima had grumbled about his pair of pink underwear arriving late, but it turned out they were only one part of a downright scandalous lingerie set.

 Goromi wore tall, black heels and the pink fishnets he’d seen when they were still in the package. Large black bows held them around her thighs, and they matched her fishnet gloves. The pink underwear also matched a shiny, front-laced corset top with missing bra cups. Over her exposed nipples, it looked like she’d taped black Xs. A third black X covered her left eyelid, which might have been funny if not for the rest of the outfit.

 Her makeup was also pink, and she wore the flashy yellow wig from when he’d first met her. The colours made the outfit almost cute, but in a sexy, obscene way that spread warmth through Kiryu’s body. She looked like something out of an erotic movie. 

“Here I was, lookin’ to get my beauty sleep, and I find a naked man in my bed,” Goromi said. She slowly pulled the red satin sheet off his body. “What am I going to do with you, Kiryu-chan?”

“Anything,” Kiryu blurted out. He was still trying to drink in every detail. “Anything you want,” he added, then sat up, blinking hard to shake off his remaining grogginess.  “Should I… uh, yeah, I should go brush my teeth.”

 Goromi smiled. “That didn’t stop ya from all that kissin’ you were doin’ yesterday morning.”

“I wasn’t woken up by a lady yesterday morning.”

 She leaned forward and pursed her lips,“Does this getup say lady to you?”

 Kiryu took the opportunity to look her up and down again. The outfit said passion, it said debauchery, it said… “It says Goromi.”

 She looked like she liked that answer. “Don’t take too long.”

“I’ll be right back,” Kiryu said, and jogged to the bathroom, not bothering to stop for clothes. He had to get out of there before touching her or he’d never be able to leave.

 Right now it was his bladder more than anything that needed his attention. Once that was taken care of, Kiryu quickly brushed his teeth and dug into the gift basket of toiletries that still sat on the counter. Goromi had put so much effort into her appearance, he would do what he could with what he had. He wasn’t even sure what she was planning, but he made sure he was ready for anything. 

 After fixing his hair, Kiryu returned to the bedroom at a much slower pace. He found Goromi lying on the bed, propped up on pillows but still in those tall shoes. Her arm rested on top of her bent knee, and she held a cigarette between her fingers. “There ya are, Kiryu-chan, and ya look so good that I ain’t even mad at how damn long you took.”

 Kiryu, still fully nude, couldn’t help flexing his muscles. Goromi nodded, then motioned with her fingers. 

“Turn around, gorgeous. Gimme the full three-sixty view.”

 It was hard not to feel proud of his physique while she was looking so intently at him, dressed up like a window display in an adult store. Kiryu turned slowly, and couldn’t help bringing his arms up to further flex for her. 

“Kiryu-chan, you’d make bodybuilders jealous,” Goromi said. Kiryu turned back to face her. “Come here.”

 Kiryu carefully sat down on the bed beside her. He took the cigarette out of her hand and took a long drag, then crushed it in the ashtray on the nightstand. 

“Who said I was done with that?” Goromi snapped, although she hadn’t made a move to stop him. 

“I did,” Kiryu replied. He touched her leg.“You look stunning.”

“Had to give ya a good send-off, baby.”

 Kiryu tugged on the thin black crisscrossing ribbon that held the corset together. “I’m honoured. Now how do I get you out of all this?”

“Piece by piece. Slowly.”

 Kiryu chuckled and leaned towards her. “Slowly? Do you really think you’re more patient than me, Goromi-chan?”

“We’ll have find out, won’t we.”

 Goromi held out her left hand. Kiryu took it and slowly pulled off the glove, finger by finger, till it was all the way off. He kissed her hand, sucking at the skin of her palm, then reached for the other glove. He did the same thing with her right hand, and let her trace his lips with her fingers.

“Such a gorgeous mouth,” Goromi said. She pushed her index and middle finger past his lips, and Kiryu kept eye contact as he sucked on her fingers. Her expression alone would be enough to make him burn, but that wasn’t the only thing going on that was making him hard.

 Goromi liked strength as much as Majima, but it wasn’t the same. Her energy, her aura, whatever it was, was different. No matter what they were about to do, Goromi was the one in charge. Kiryu loved that. It made him shamelessly eager to please her. By the growing smirk on her face, he could tell she liked every bit of his attention. 

 Kiryu ran his hand over the bare part of her chest, to her covered left nipple. “Won’t it hurt to take this off?” he asked after she pulled her fingers out of his mouth. 

“They’re pasties, not tape, Kiryu-chan. You could rip ‘em off with yer teeth and I’d be just fine.”

 Kiryu leaned over, and she yanked hard on his arm till he was right on top of her. Kiryu hid a wince by kissing her shoulder, but she didn’t let him stay there long. She grabbed his face and smiled just before their lips met. Kiryu rubbed himself against her silky underwear, and she made that low, approving noise that always drove him crazy. 

 Pulling away, Kiryu moved down her body so his face was level with her chest. He touched her skin, then traced over the black nipple-covering. It felt like vinyl. He squeezed her nipple through the material, and ran his thumb over it when he felt it harden. Goromi’s breathing increased, and Kiryu didn’t need to look to know that he was being watched like a hawk. He pulled one edge of the X up with his thumb, then leaned in with his mouth. 

 Goromi hummed her approval as Kiryu slowly pulled off the covering with his teeth. It came off easily, and she didn’t show any signs of pain. Once it was gone, he pressed his lips to her nipple and sucked. She grabbed the back of his head to keep him there, breathing hard now. Kiryu gave her other nipple the same attention while Goromi played with his hair. 

“Big tough guy like you, Kiryu-chan, and ya can’t help being gentle. Still a marshmallow,” Goromi teased. Kiryu closed his teeth around her nipple, and she bucked her hips up. “Yes! That’s better.”

 Kiryu carefully removed the third pasty that covered her left eye, then ran his hands over the corset. He didn’t see a visible tie on the ribbon. “Is there a trick to this thing?”

“Hmm. Cut it off.”

“Goromi?”

 She reached over to the side table where she kept her dagger. The sakura flowers on the hilt matched the pink she was wearing. “Just cut it off. The ribbon ain’t worth anything.”

“I don’t want to hurt you.”

 She unsheathed the blade and pressed the hilt into his hand. “You won’t hurt me, Kazuma,” she said in a low voice. “I know you won’t.”

 Kiryu nodded, and his unease faded away. This wasn’t about pain, or even pleasure. This was about trust. He held the dagger out to the side and kissed her. “I won’t hurt you,” he agreed. 

 Carefully, with the sharp edge pointing up and away from her skin, Kiryu began to cut the ribbon from the bottom up. It came away easily due to the sharpness of the blade, but Kiryu continued slowly. Goromi took measured breaths as the corset opened one inch at a time. 

 When it was most of the way open, Kiryu sheathed the dagger and put it back on the nightstand. He took both sides of the corset and pulled hard, ripping away the rest of the ribbon. 

 Goromi gasped and bucked her hips up. “Fuck, Kaz! I shoulda had ya rip the whole thing off.”

 Kiryu smiled. That was Majima talking. Goro instead of Goromi. Not that Kiryu minded, but his partner looked annoyed at the slip up. Kiryu leaned back over her and kissed her exposed chest. He could feel how hard she was through those little pink panties, and he could feel a shiver run through her as his tongue travelled over her abdomen. 

“Do you still want me to go slow?” Kiryu asked. He moved his leg and this time he couldn’t help but wince. 

“Wait, what was that look?” Goromi asked, stopping his movement by grabbing his hair and pulling his head up. She examined his face closely. “You’re sweating, Kiryu-chan. What am I missin’ here?”

 Kiryu could no longer hold back his smile. He’d done his best to keep his secret, but he was still surprised it took her this long to notice something was going on. He moved back up so he was face-to-face with her, then took her hand, the one that didn’t still have a firm grip in his hair. He kissed her knuckles, then placed her hand on his ass. She immediately slapped it, and he made an involuntary noice. Her eye widened as her hand explored. He leaned his hips forward to let her reach further. 

 When Goromi’s fingers touched the edge of the plug, she gasped, then erupted into joyful laughter. “Kiryu-chan! No fuckin’ way!”

 Before he could reply she kissed him, still holding him by the hair as her other hand slapped his ass again. Kiryu allowed himself to moan this time, and it only increased her glee. 

“Oh, I fuckin’ love you, Kaz. And ya did it again! Ya derailed my plans with somethin’ even better. Hot damn.” She kissed him again, hard and deep, then pulled his head back by the hair so she could laugh again. “Ya did real good, gorgeous, now get off me. I need to get a good look at what you’ve done.”

 Kiryu gingerly swung his leg off of her and moved to her side, onto his hands and knees. Goromi stood up and threw away her open corset, then grabbed the large lube bottle, trailing fingers over his back as he crawled to the edge of the bed. She still wore her heels and pink fishnets, one of which had fallen down to her knee. 

“You’re so sexy, Goromi.”

 She ran her hand back over his ass, caressing the skin around the end of the plug he’d inserted in the bathroom ahead of time. 

“And you look eager, Kiryu-chan.” she said, moving her hand around him to brush against his erection. “Eager and hard. You want me to fuck you?”

“Y-yes.”

“Yes, what?”

“Yes, I want you to fuck me,” Kiryu said. 

 Goromi touched his hip and pulled his ass back against her. Kiryu strained his neck to see. 

“How can I say no to ya, Kaz?” 

 She took a step to the side and let him watch as she pulled her underwear down just enough to release her cock. The underwear stayed low on her thighs, above the stockings. Goromi ran her hand along her hard shaft and made that low, approving sound again. The sight made Kiryu twitch. She placed her hands on his ass and squeezed. 

“Look at you,” she mused. “This is yer first time with one of these so I’ll be nice and gentle.”

“You don’t have to be too gentle.”

 She slapped his ass yet again. “Fuck, I love you.”

“I love you,” Kiryu replied. 

 True to her word, she gently removed the plug. Kiryu did his best to hold still, but the way she kept touching and praising him had him shuddering before she’d even started. Finally, Goromi stood right behind him after pulling him to the very edge of the bed. Kiryu tried not to hold his breath when he felt the hard tip of her cock. He looked back again and saw the dangerous, hungry expression he loved so much. 

“Goromi,” Kiryu moaned as she pushed inside. 

 Goromi’s eye closed, her mouth falling open as she gave him time to adjust. It was hard on his neck to keep looking back, but Kiryu couldn’t take his eyes off her. She bit her bright pink lip and thrust into him again, squeezing his ass cheeks as she rolled her hips, finding a slow and steady rhythm. 

 The second she opened her eyes and saw him watching, she smiled. “You’re gonna hurt yer neck, baby.”

“I don’t care. I need to see you.”

 He was rewarded by another of her bright smiles. She withdrew and pushed him over. “On yer back, Kiryu-chan.”

 He did as he was told, moving up to the head of the bed, as she instructed, so his head rested on the pillow. She slipped off her shoes and knelt on the bed between his legs. “Needed to see you too,” she said, before leaning down and planting a kiss on the underside of his cock. Kiryu couldn’t help the noise he made. Goromi smiled again and guided his knees up towards his chest, so she had as much access to his ass as his limited flexibility would allow. Leaning over him, she entered him again. 

“That’s better, ain’t it?” she purred. 

“Y-yes.” 

 She handed him the lube. “Touch yourself for me, baby.”

 He didn’t know or care why it turned him on so much to do what she told him, but it did. She could have ordered him to run naked down the street and he’d consider it. He tugged on himself hard, and she sped up to match his pace, hitting that place inside him that made him see stars.  

“You feel so good, Kaz.” she said, her voice increasingly shaky. They were both panting now as their bodies slapped together, fast and hard. 

“Uh huh,” Kiryu replied, too far gone for anything but to moan. They breathed together, holding eye contact as the feeling intensified. She kept a tight hold on his legs, fingers digging into his skin, and he wouldn’t have it any other way. 

“Cum for me, Kazuma,” Goromi said between gasping breaths. “Fuck, I’m so close.”

 Kiryu grit his teeth, and once again, did what he was told. He came without holding anything back. She drove into him wildly, erratically, moaning his name, and by the time the spots had cleared from Kiryu’s eyes, Goromi hit her peak as well. Once finished, she collapsed to the side, her head hitting the pillow beside him, makeup smudged and wig askew. He grabbed her and kissed her, then held her forehead to his as they both caught their breath. 

“Thank you,” Kiryu managed to say. “You’re perfect, Goromi.”

 Goromi, looking beautifully disheveled, smiled and kissed him again. 

Chapter 72: It’s Still Not Goodbye

 After blissfully dozing in bed for a while, Goromi pulled Kiryu into the bathroom and turned on the shower. While it warmed up, Kiryu helped her deal with the many pins that kept her wig attached. She carefully set the yellow curls down on the counter near the sink. He stood behind her and kissed her neck while she cleaned off her makeup. Even after it was all gone and she stood naked in front of him, Kiryu could tell it was still her.  

“You’re beautiful, Goromi,” he whispered in her ear. 

“How’d ya know?” she asked, watching him through the bathroom mirror. 

“Just a feeling.”

“And this is alright?”

“Of course,” Kiryu said, wrapping his arms around her waist. 

“Ya know, the day ya got here, I was thinkin’ I might be gettin’ too old for this sorta thing,” she said, reaching out to touch the wig. 

“You’re never too old to be yourself. If I’ve learned anything from you this year, it’s that.”

 She sighed and relaxed back against him. “You’re the best, baby.”

“I’m so lucky to be with you. All aspects of you.”

“Kaz, I don’t know how ya do it, but you always know what to say,” she said, then broke out into an evil laugh. “Next time you’re here I’ll have to break out the idol look. Or the zombie!”

“Zombie Goromi? That sounds terrifying,” Kiryu said. 

A wicked smile spread across her lips, “That’s such a good idea.”

“No it’s not. Come on,” Kiryu replied, and pulled her into the shower. Neither of them had mentioned that Kiryu was leaving that day, and while it was on his mind, Kiryu was happy to ignore the inevitable for a little longer. 

 The lukewarm water cooled Kiryu’s hot skin. He washed Goromi’s hair with a different bottle than Majima’s usual shampoo. This one had a spicy floral scent that Kiryu remembered from when he’d first arrived. Kiryu breathed deep as that lovely scent surrounded him. As he massaged the lather into her scalp, Goromi’s hands roamed over his body, more appreciative than sexual, and much more tender than he expected from her. 

“I wasn’t too rough with ya, darlin’?” Goromi asked as they dressed. Despite her concern, she slapped his ass none too gently, as if to remind him who he was dealing with.

“Heh, no. You were amazing, Goromi-chan. This whole trip has been better than I ever could’ve hoped.”

“I ain’t about to let my man have a bad time.” She pulled on black leather pants and put on a long, sheer purple robe on top. 

 After they finished eating a very late breakfast on the couch, Goromi put her head on Kiryu’s shoulder and sighed. “What if ya flew out tomorrow instead? I could rent out that onsen on Park Boulevard for just the two of us. Or maybe the arcade? I know ya love the arcade.”

 Kiryu put his arm around her. “I wish I could. Those sound like good plans for when I come back.”

 Goromi sighed, “Don’t know why I thought it’d be easier this time around, maybe ‘cause I ain’t the one leaving, but dammit, I hate this.”

“I know. So do I.” Kiryu said, running his hands through her damp hair. She’d told him her hair was too wet for a wig, and while it wasn’t a question, it had felt like she was asking his permission. It was less assertive than he was used to from Goromi, but he’d never spent a morning with her before. Kiryu breathed in the lingering scent of her shampoo. He was going to miss her just as much as Majima. 

 She squeezed his thigh. “I wish I could tell ya when I’m comin’ to see ya next beyond sometime in September, but there’s a lot of shit coming up this month that yours truly needs to keep an eye on, and since I only got the one, I need to stick around and keep it peeled.”

“Sometime in September is enough. I know it’s not what either of us want, but it’s enough.”

 She smiled, then slapped his leg. “Goromi ain’t as sappy as Goro. You aren’t supposed to be able to make me melt like this.”

 Kiryu brushed her hair away from her eyes. “I can’t help it, I love you too much.”

 She laughed and squeezed his thigh again, harder this time. “You’re layin’ it on thick on purpose now.”

“I’ll stop when it stops making you smile.”

 She made a disdainful sound, but didn’t stop smiling. They held each other for a while in peaceful silence till a cell phone rang. 

“Dammit.”

 Goromi kissed Kiryu one more time, then her posture changed, and she was gone. Majima stood up and answered the phone with a loud “What?”, then walked off towards the kitchen, throwing the purple robe towards the bedroom as he went. 

 Kiryu took a breath and rested his head back against the couch. He hated to leave, but he was looking forward to being home with the kids. October felt like a long ways off, but he was looking forward to coming back for Takashi’s wedding, and at some point before that, Majima would come see him again. 

“What are you smilin’ about?” 

 Kiryu turned to see Majima with his hands on his hips. Kiryu reached for him and pulled him back down to the couch. “I was thinking about how even though I hate to leave today, we’re still making this work. We have plans, even if some of them aren’t set in stone yet, but we have lots to look forward to. That makes today easier.”

 Majima put his head back on Kiryu’s shoulder. “I guess that does take a bit of the sting outta you leaving.”

 Kiryu kissed his forehead. “Who was that on the phone?”

“Nishida. He wants to pick us up early ‘cause there’s a concert or some shit tonight and he thinks traffic’s gonna be bad. I said it ain’t gonna be bad this early, but he said he’ll be here in about an hour just to be safe.”

“Sure, that’s fair. Are you coming to the airport too?”

“Yeah. We have to get to HQ afterwards, but mostly I need to spend as much time next to you as I can before ya go back. Think Nishida would mind if we made out like teenagers the whole way there?”

It was impossible for Kiryu to tell if he was joking. “I… don’t think I can to do that to him.” 

 Majima sighed dramatically, “Fine, but we’re sittin’ in the backseat together.”

“Heh, deal,” Kiryu replied, “Make out with me now while we’re alone.”

 Majima laughed, “Great idea.”

 Seconds later, he was sitting on Kiryu’s lap while they kissed with a slow, burning intensity that made Kiryu almost forget he was leaving soon. He held Majima’s bare back, running his fingers along his spine till their lips finally had to part. 

 Kiryu pulled him closer into a tight hug. “I love you,” he whispered into Majima’s ear. 

“Love you too, Kiryu-chan. Another damn good morning.”

 Kiryu pulled back to look him in the eye. “Morning? You just got here, Goro.”

 Majima chuckled, then looked thoughtful. “I know me ‘n Goromi aren’t different people, but sometimes it’s just, I dunno, good to be her.”

“I’m not complaining,” Kiryu said. 

“Aw, Kaz,” Majima said, flashing him one of his brilliant smiles, “what the hell did I do to deserve you?” 

“Hmm, probably that swirl thing you always do with your tongue.”

 Majima’s mouth dropped open in shock, then he howled with laughter. Kiryu started to say more, but his lips were attacked by Majima’s own. Majima swirled his tongue around Kiryu’s, then had to stop because he’d started laughing again. 

 Not long after that, they reluctantly broke apart so Kiryu could pack his things. He ensured all the gifts for the kids were secure, as Majima fixed him a drink before they left. It was an Old Fashioned, which reminded Kiryu of their first trip to Aqua Sky. “To take the edge off,” Majima said when he pressed the glass into Kiryu’s hand. 

 They were ready and waiting when Nishida called to say he was in the underground parking lot. Kiryu was about to put his shoes on when Majima froze. 

“What?” Kiryu asked.  

“Dammit!” Majima yelled, looking back over his shoulder, “We never fucked in the kitchen!”

“Heh, were we supposed to?”

“Yes! We were supposed to get down ‘n dirty in every room, but we never… Nishida can wait fifteen minutes,” Majima said, already pulling off his snakeskin jacket. 

 Kiryu stepped forward and stopped him, holding him still by his arms. “Next time, Goro. We did great these last few days. I’ve never felt so satisfied in my life.” He also didn’t think he could handle another round after everything they’d done that morning, but Kiryu wasn’t going to admit that. 

 Majima’s expression softened. He let Kiryu kiss his cheek, then turned his head so their lips met. Kiryu felt his shoulders relax. 

“It has been great,” Majima admitted, “and we got plenty of juicy memories to talk about when we’re back to late night phone calls.” He sighed heavily, “I guess it can wait, but when I get ya back in here, that’s the first thing we’re doin’.”

 Kiryu nodded. “I’ll have you up on the counter as soon as I get through the door.”

 The look Majima gave him felt so charged that Kiryu nearly changed his mind. “I’ll hold ya to that, Kiryu-chan.”

 The drive was uneventful. Majima complained that they didn’t see any of the traffic Nishida was worried about. Nishida didn’t speak up beyond a polite apology, but he did look grateful when Kiryu said that there was no traffic because they’d left early. 

 Majima’s hand stayed on Kiryu’s leg the whole way there. Kiryu rested his hand on top of Majima’s, moving his thumb over the back of the leather glove. All too soon, they saw signs leading to the airport. 

“Last chance to change yer mind,” Majima said. “We could leave Nishida here and take the car way the fuck somewhere else.”

 Kiryu looked Majima in the eye. He wished he could tell him to not make this any harder than it already was, but luckily he didn’t have to say a word. Majima gave him an apologetic half-smile and squeezed his hand, intertwining their fingers. He didn’t speak or look away from Kiryu till Nishida pulled up to the door of the airport. 

“Close yer eyes,” Majima barked at Nishida, who obediently removed his helmet and covered his eyes by holding it in front of his face. Majima checked to make sure no one was watching, then kissed the back of Kiryu’s hand, a simple and surprisingly sweet gesture. Then, as if to balance it out, Majima punched him hard on the shoulder. Kiryu couldn’t help but smile. 

 “Alright, you’re good.” Majima said, and slapped the top of Nishida’s head before he could put the helmet back in place. Kiryu wondered how often that must happen, because Nishida barely flinched.  

 Kiryu made sure to thank Nishida, then picked up his bag from the trunk. Majima joined him at the back of the car. 

 “Don’t give me that look, Kiryu-chan. The man’s got a real slappable head.”

 It felt wrong to laugh, but Kiryu couldn’t suppress a chuckle. “Heh, at least you didn’t steal his shirt this time.”

 Majima smiled warmly at him. “I fuckin’ hate goodbyes.”

“This isn’t goodbye, same as last time we left each other.” Kiryu said. “I’ll see you sometime in September, then I’m coming back in October for a day or two, then… well, if nothing else, you promised to spend the end of the year with us in Okinawa.”

 Majima nodded. There was pain behind his smile, and Kiryu had to fight the urge to reach out and pull him into his arms. He settled for a firm handshake. Majima squeezed his hand again, holding on as long as he could without making his feelings public. “You’re right, Kaz. We’re makin’ this work.”

“Goro, I…” he had to stop himself. The I love you had become automatic, but they were in public, and it didn’t feel right. Not yet anyway. 

“Yeah, Kaz. Same to you,” Majima replied, reading his mind again. 

 Kiryu nodded, then went inside. He looked back once, and waved at Majima, who was looking at him through the rolled down window with a cigarette hanging out of his mouth. 

 The flight home was even smoother than the drive, and Kiryu tried his best to keep his mind on all the good things that had happened. He’d been honest with Daigo, he’d done something that would hopefully help Saejima, he saw some old friends, and he rediscovered how much he loved Kamurocho. All that would be enough to say it was a great vacation. 

 But there had been so many other good times. Kiryu couldn’t help but smile, only barely paying attention to the show that was playing on the small TV nearby. Majima had really gone all out for him. He couldn’t think about the details for too long. Not here. He’d be in danger of either getting too sad, or turning himself on. His hand could almost still feel the tight grip of their last handshake, and he was definitely still feeling the effects of his morning with Goromi. 

 Hours later, Kiryu arrived home to a hero’s welcome. It was nearly bedtime, and the kids were all in their pyjamas, but that didn’t stop them from running out the front door to meet him. He ushered them all back inside and into the dining room, where Haruka had saved him some dinner  

 She looked him over and smiled. “You don’t look hurt, and you don’t look unhappy,” she said, breathing a sigh of relief. “Did you have a good time, Uncle Kaz?”

“Yeah, we had fun. Date says Hello. Now tell me what happened while I was away.”

 While Kiryu handed out the gifts from his bag, Haruka and the other kids filled him in on their last few days. The kids were all excited about the presents, which was unusual since aside from a small amount of candy, it was mostly stickers and school supplies. The fact that they’d come not only from Tokyo, but from Uncle Majima increased their enthusiasm. 

 Once the kids had gone to bed, Kiryu had his last smoke of the day outside in front of the ocean. As nice as it was to be back, he missed his partner. Majima had texted that he’d be out too late for a call tonight, but that they’d talk tomorrow afternoon. Kiryu was disappointed, but decided it would be a good idea to catch up on some sleep. He looked up at the moon and tried to focus on September. They’d see each other again, sometime in September. 

Notes:

Thanks for reading this far. Somehow, there’s still a LOT more of this story to come. 😁

Chapter 73: Sometime In September

 August was hot and muggy in Okinawa, but the children of Morning Glory enjoyed their summer break. With some hard work and a lot of encouragement, Izumi had become a confident swimmer, and Kiryu could finally lead his school of nine little fish through the sea. Aside from the intense heat and the usual amount of childish bickering, they’d had a nice, peaceful time. 

 The first problem occured midway through August. Kiryu received a notice from the kids’ school, asking parents and guardians to fill out a survey about school uniforms. The nearby elementary school was far more easy-going than the schools back in Tokyo, and they had never required uniforms. It filled Kiryu with dread to think about possibly having to buy uniforms for all the kids, in addition to the ones he knew he had to buy next year for Ayako and Taichi, and possibly Haruka if she kept growing. He hoped that issue would be up for debate for a while. It was expensive enough trying to keep all nine of them in shoes that fit. Luckily, it wasn’t resolved when they’d all gone back to school in September. 

 In the last week of August, the refrigerator started making a sound that was different than its usual loud hum. By the end of the week, it had completely stopped working. The repair man had tried to talk Kiryu into buying a new fridge, but he’d fallen for too many scams to accept an offer like that too quickly. Instead, they ordered a new part, and while the repair man didn’t have high hopes that it would last long, the old fridge kept chugging along for now. 

 Throughout their time apart, Majima and Kiryu had kept up with near-daily phone calls and photos. Majima always wanted to know how the kids were doing, and what they’d had for dinner, and all the mundane little things Kiryu never expected him to be interested in. Kiryu tried to be a good ear for Majima, and all the ongoing issues he was facing. There was only so much that was safe to say over the phone, but in vague terms, Majima explained the vetting process he’d recently put in place for new recruits, and talked at length about the nearly finished penthouses at the top of Kamurocho Hills.

 Kiryu didn’t bother to tell him about the fridge, or his worries about the uniforms. That didn’t concern Majima. Kiryu was dealing with it, and it wasn’t anything he couldn’t handle. 

 Then the washing machine broke.

 The old washer had never been efficient, and it made loud clunking noises ever since the house had crashed down around it last year. Kiryu had started a wash on second Tuesday morning in September. When he returned after the usual hour and a half, he stepped through the door and into a giant puddle. 

 This time around, the same repair man was clear and straightforward, and Kiryu believed him. There were no new parts that could be ordered, and no way to extend its life. The washing machine was dead, and had to be replaced. With a household of ten, it had to happen soon. Kiryu and Haruka looked through a catalogue the repair man supplied, and found a machine with fast cycles and extra capacity. It was a necessary investment, and was the best option, but Haruka audibly gasped when she saw the price. If he were alone, Kiryu might have done the same. 

 The grim fact was that even the lower-end machines would be a huge drain on their meagre savings. Kiryu didn’t say this to Haruka, and when she turned her large, concerned eyes up at him, he did his best to reassure her that everything would be fine. He hoped he was convincing, but his stomach felt like it was full of rocks. 

 After several days of carefully handwashing the most important of their clothes, a monotonous task that Kiryu had never enjoyed, the new washer arrived on Saturday afternoon. The stress Kiryu was feeling kept him extra quiet, but the kids had been loud and high-strung all day. Anything new was exciting to them, even a washing machine, and when the repair man wheeled it into the back room, they all ran in and swarmed around it. 

 They weren’t being bad, just curious, so Kiryu did his best to hide his frustration. Luckily for him, Haruka sprung into action. She put herself and Taichi in charge of keeping everyone outside, while Kiryu oversaw the installation and signed the last of the paperwork. As understanding as the repair man was, it felt embarrassing not to be able to afford the washing machine without the longest of the long-term payment plans. 

 Finally, the truck and the delivery man left, and Kiryu stood alone in front of the new machine, next to the giant pile of laundry that had amassed over the last few days. He reminded himself that a pile like this would take several days with the old washer, and he might actually get all this done by tomorrow. After reading the straightforward instructions, he was halfway through loading the first wash when, from out front of the house, he could hear the kids all start yelling. 

 Kiryu frowned. He was too far away to tell if it was happy yelling or angry yelling. Kiryu only took two steps away from the mountain of clothes before he heard the unmistakable shrill laugh of the man he loved. 

 Kiryu turned back and grit his teeth. Why today? As much as he’d missed Majima, didn’t want him involved with this whole stupid mess with the washing machine. He took a deep breath and tried to relax. He reassured himself that at least the fridge was fixed and the washer was installed. Before he could move again, he heard approaching voices.

“…and then, after that, the washing machine exploded!” Koji’s voice said. 

“What? Exploded?” Majima asked.

“No, nothing like that,” Ayako said quickly, “it just broke.”

“And then the house flooded!” Eri added.   

“No, no. You’re all exaggerating!” The usually calm Ayako exclaimed.  

 The group reached Kiryu. Koji and Riona ran over to him, with Majima, Shiro, and Ayako close behind. 

“Sounds like a tough week, Uncle Kaz,” Majima said as a greeting. He and the kids were all smiling, but there was something behind Majima’s expression that he couldn’t read. 

 Kiryu nodded, “Yeah, but we’re fine now.”

“Aren’t you surprised, Uncle Kaz?” Riona asked. 

“Yeah, it’s always good to see Uncle Majima,” Kiryu said, which was true, even if the timing wasn’t great. Majima was dressed casually, with the pink heart-shaped sunglasses Kiryu had given Goromi hanging from the front of his white tank top. Ayako and Shiro were holding onto the sleeves of his loose, linen over-shirt, which was so sweet that Kiryu had to smile.

 Majima chuckled as the rest of the kids crowded into the room. “I sure missed you guys. Every last one of ya.”

“Even Mame?” Izumi asked loudly from somewhere behind him. 

“Who’s that?” Majima asked, looking around for a missing kid. 

 Several voices shouted “The dog!”, which made Majima laugh and affirm that yes, he had missed Mame too. 

 Haruka gently pushed through the group. “Should we go back outside and play so Uncle Kaz can finish this?”

“Good idea. I won’t be long,” Kiryu said. 

“Alright, ya rascals,” Majima said after raising an eyebrow at Kiryu, “let’s go see if the dog missed me back.”

 Kiryu quickly finished loading the first wash. Instead of a loud clunk, the machine made a pleasant little beep as it started. Once that was done, he went looking for everyone else. He found Haruka by the front door, putting on her shoes. 

“Everyone’s outside setting up a baseball game. Uncle Majima’s in your room.”

“Thanks, Haruka,” Kiryu said. She nodded and jogged outside. Kiryu took a breath and opened the door to his room. His smile faded when he saw Majima holding one of the books on his desk. 

“Class Two Practice Exam for Taxi Drivers,” Majima read, “Kaz, what the hell?”

“Don’t worry about that,” Kiryu snapped. Majima narrowed his eye, and by his expression, it was obvious that he wasn’t going to let this go. Kiryu chose his words carefully. “I have a lot of spare time after the kids go to bed and when they’re at school. I want to make better use of that time.”

“Bullshit,” Majima snapped, moving into his field of vision after Kiryu looked away. “Kaz, you shouldn’t have to be doin’ shit like this.”

“I have it under control, Nii-san.” 

“Stop lyin’ to me! You’ve already got a job. Workin’ yourself into the ground ain’t gonna help anybody.”

“I haven’t even taken the test yet.”

“And we’re gonna keep it that way.” Majima said, surprisingly calmly. Kiryu still couldn’t hold eye contact. “Why didn’t ya tell me about the appliances crapping out? You know I woulda helped.”

 He touched Kiryu’s arm. Kiryu’s instincts told him to pull away, but he couldn’t. Despite his stubbornness and embarrassment, Majima’s hand on his skin was too big a comfort to resist. Instead, he closed his eyes. “It’s my business. My job. I can take care of it alone.”

“But you aren’t alone, Kaz. Ya gave me a key and told me this was my second home, or was that a big fat lie?”

“Of course not.”

“And did ya ever stop to think that maybe I’d want a fridge that wasn’t older than dust in my home?”

 Kiryu clenched his jaw, “No, but-”

“But nothin’. You run an orphanage, Kiryu-chan. This place is basically a charity, and that means once in a while, for the sake of the little ones, ya gotta accept some fuckin’ charity!”

 Kiryu finally looked at Majima. There was no pity on his face. Determination, yes, but no pity. And he wasn’t wrong.

“It isn’t that easy,” Kiryu said. “Our budget is tight, and the council hasn’t increased it in years. If they found out I took yakuza money on top of the reconstruction last year, they could cut funding altogether, or find someone to run this place who didn’t have to keep begging them for money.”

 Kiryu’s cheeks burned from that last bit of bitter honesty. Majima grabbed him into a hug. “Aw, Kaz, you idiot. We’ll figure this out.”

 A hug shouldn’t have been able to so thoroughly change his mood, especially after being called an idiot, but Majima’s embrace was so calming it felt like he’d thrown water onto a fire. Kiryu sighed and turned his head, kissing along his jaw till their lips met. As they stood, locked in a deep kiss, Majima squeezed his bicep and made a quiet sound that Kiryu had missed so intensely that to hear it again made all his problems melt away. At least, for a few seconds. 

“I really missed you, Goro,” Kiryu whispered, then touched a faded bruise under his bad eye. “Your cheek?”

“What? Oh, that. Ya shoulda seen it two weeks ago. It took a lot of concealer to make it look like I came out of that brawl without a scratch.”

 Majima hadn’t mentioned any brawls, but Kiryu couldn’t be mad at him for that. Not after his own omissions this month.

“How many?” Kiryu asked. 

 Majima lit up like Kiryu had given him a compliment. “Five or six, but two of ‘em were big, mean bastards. I dented one of my favourite bats knocking ‘em down.” Majima laughed at the memory, “It was a good time, Kaz. I wish ya coulda been there.”

 Kiryu nodded, “I could use a good fight.”

“Stop turning me on, Kiryu-chan,” Majima said, thrusting his hips against Kiryu’s.

“Heh, sorry,” Kiryu said, though he didn’t feel at all sorry. “You look really good in those jeans.” He rested his forehead against Majima’s for a moment, then pulled back when a thought occurred to him. “How did you know about the fridge? Did Haruka call you? Is that why you’re here?”

“Relax, gorgeous. The kids told me as soon as I got outta the cab. They said the fridge broke and they got to eat everything inside.” He let Kiryu go, then turned back to the desk. “Do ya have a budget written down somewhere? Lemme take a look.” 

“I don’t need your…” Kiryu started automatically, but Majima was right. He did need help. If things continued the way they were, even if there were no more surprise expenses, he doubted they had more than a year before they’d be in real financial trouble. 

 Majima nodded as if Kiryu had been talking out loud. “Ya know what? We’re gonna do this right. I’ll give Nishida a call and get him over here ASAP. I’m good at budget stuff but he’s the best. He could use a beach day too.”

“You don’t have to-”

“This is happenin’, Kaz,” Majima said, serious again. “Nishida won’t get in the way. We’ll set him up at that hotel near here. He’ll come over, work his magic, and make sure nobody has to worry about anything.”

“Goro, I-”

“And I know what you’re thinkin’, but don’t worry. It’ll be legit as can be. The day after I got outta that jail cell I got Nishida started on separating the Majima Family from Majima Construction. He knows how to keep things squeaky clean, so if anyone goes diggin’, they won’t trace a thing back to anythin’ Yakuza.”

 That wasn’t what Kiryu was thinking, but it was comforting. Majima was being so helpful, and looking at him with so much concern, that it made Kiryu wonder just how tense he must have looked. That thought was followed by a wave of guilt. The kids had probably picked up on his stress as well. Majima was about to say more, but Kiryu held up a hand. 

“You’re right,” Kiryu said. “I… do need your help.”

 Majima put both his hands on Kiryu’s cheeks, looking serious except for that mischievous spark in his eye. “Of course I’m right.”

 Kiryu pulled him close and kissed him again, stealing more of the sweet comfort that Majima’s lips were providing. “Thank you, Goro. I really needed that.”

“What you need is a blowjob on the beach, but you’ll have to wait till around midnight for that.”

 Kiryu had to laugh, even though he was pretty sure Majima was serious. “How long are you here?”

“I’m takin’ the afternoon flight back on Tuesday.”

“And… why today?”

 Majima beamed, hands on his hips. “The Hills is officially, inside and out, one hundred percent complete.”

 Kiryu grabbed him into another tight hug. “Congratulations.”

“Thanks, darlin’! I had to tell ya in person. It’s the least I could do after complainin’ all month about it.” Majima let him go and reached for his bag, which was sitting in the same place it was when he’d first stayed with them. He pulled out two bottles. “Tonight, we’re celebratin’. The big one’s some kinda sparklin’ juice for the kids. This is for us.” He handed over the bottles. Kiryu was unfamiliar with this champagne brand, but the label looked fancy. “And I saw that new pizza joint on the way in, so dinner’s on me.” Before Kiryu could protest, Majima held up a hand. “And yeah, I know Shiro can’t do lactose, but I checked and they’ve got options for that.”

“You don’t need-”

“Shut yer trap, Kazzy. Just be happy I didn’t bring any fireworks.”

“Heh, fine.”

“C’mon, these need time to chill in that stupid old fridge, then we should get outside so the kids don’t think we’re makin’ out in here.”

 Majima grabbed Kiryu’s face for one last kiss, then pushed him away. Kiryu took the bottles to the kitchen while Majima called Nishida. They met at the front door, where the kids ran up to them, eager to start the game. Majima had a pair of sandals with him, and cuffed his jeans as he put them on. After checking both ways for cars, they all ran at full speed across the street and into the sand. 

 It was hard to let go of all the tension Kiryu had been carrying. It didn’t feel right to let Majima rush in and save him from his problems, but he also couldn’t ask Haruka for help with this, and he couldn’t think of any other options beyond his taxi idea. Kiryu was more than willing to sacrifice his spare time, but driving all night would be exhausting, and the kids deserved his full attention. He took a seat in the sand next to Izumi and Mame, scratching the dog behind his fuzzy ears as he thought about everything Majima had said. 

 The last time he’d outright refused Majima’s help, Morning Glory had been destroyed. Kiryu looked at the kids sitting in the sand next to him, waiting for their turn at the bar. He had vowed to do everything in his power to make sure these children never went through anything like that again. If that meant accepting Majima’s willingly offered help, then he’d just have to go against his instincts and swallow his pride. For the sake of his kids, as well as his own.

 He glanced over at Majima, who was shouting encouragements from the outfield. Kiryu wasn’t sure what the plan was beyond getting Nishida involved, but Majima never gave up once he started something, and in this case, that was a blessing. Kiryu didn’t know how it was possible to fall any deeper in love, but that’s what was happening. What a man.

 Haruka touched Kiryu’s shoulder, startling him out of his thoughts. “Uncle Kaz? Didn’t you hear us? It’s your turn.”

“Oh, r-right.” Kiryu picked up the plastic bat off the sand. Majima backed up much further away from the kids and held his hand up high. 

“Right here, Kaz!” he shouted. 

 Kiryu stood at the plate and readied himself. Mitsuo was pitching. He looked behind him when Majima yelled, then grinned widely when he turned back to Kiryu, who nodded. This would be a good challenge for all three of them. 

 Mitsuo wound up, and threw the ball. An impressive pitch for a boy his age, but Kiryu hadn’t expected any less. His bat connected, and while the rubber ball flew far, it veered sharply to the right. Majima bolted after it, yelling “I got it!”, completely unconcerned when he ended up nearly waist-deep, fully-clothed, in the ocean. 

As Majima waded back to shore, the kids were so delighted that half of them had fallen down in laughter. He tossed the ball up and caught it, looking pleased with himself as he approached Kiryu, wet jeans dripping on the sand. 

“What? Now I got a reason to try this new washing machine.”

 It was so tempting to grab him, but instead, Kiryu took the bottom of Majima’s over-shirt and wrung out the excess water, prompting another gale of laughter from the kids. 

“You should tell them about dinner, Goro,” Kiryu said in a low voice. 

 Majima smiled warmly, then turned to the kids. “So, who wants pizza tonight?” he yelled, sending the kids into another frenzy as they crowded around the two men. Despite the excitement surrounding him, Kiryu hadn’t felt this calm in weeks. He wasn’t sure if that was why Haruka suddenly hugged him, but he wasn’t complaining. Even if it were only for a few days, Kiryu’s family was once again complete.

Chapter 74: Champagne Under The Stars

  For the first time, a fully cooked meal was being delivered to Morning Glory, and the kids were thrilled. They took turns running to the front gate to see if there were any cars coming, while Majima explained how a problem with the drywall is what kept the last of the penthouses from being fully finished till this week. Haruka had more questions than the others, which was unsurprising. She was the only one who had seen Kamurocho Hills.

 When Riona and Mitsuo ran in the house to tell them the pizza had arrived, Majima ran out with them with just as much energy, stopping only to grab his sunglasses, since he’d left his eyepatch off after his quick dip in the ocean. Kiryu and Haruka followed, with the rest of the kids close behind. 

 The delivery driver looked very young, and froze when he saw the tattoos under the sleeves of the tee shirt Majima had changed into. The group of happy kids shook the poor boy out of his fear, and Kiryu suspected that Majima had given him extra cash for the pizza considering how happy and grateful he was when he said goodbye. 

 It was a lot of pizza, enough that no one fought over their favourites, and everyone could eat their fill. The older kids made sure Shiro and Izumi, who had also recently developed problems with milk, had the low-lactose pizza. Kiryu and Majima passed out the cups of sparkling juice, which were a big hit. Kiryu didn’t have champagne glasses, but it didn’t matter. They all raised their plastic cups in Majima’s honour, and as they drank, Majima looked touched. 

 After everyone had eaten their first bites, the kids filled Majima in on the two months since they’d seen him. Kiryu had told Majima most of their stories already, but he gave the kids his full attention, and asked thoughtful questions. 

 The meal was nearly over when Majima’s phone rang. He ran over to the kitchen to take the call, but wasn’t so far away that they couldn’t hear him. 

“Make it quick, I’m eatin’,” Majima barked into the phone, using a different tone of voice than the kids were used to. “Yep, good… And remember what I said about the fire! Tell him if I smell one whiff of smoke he’ll be doin’ paperwork for the rest of his fu-”

 Kiryu cleared his throat loudly enough to  interrupt. Majima’s head peeked out from the kitchen and shot him a guilty smile. The rest of his call was thankfully too quiet to hear. 

 After a minute, Majima returned and plopped down next to Kiryu at the end of the table. He scanned the room and grinned. “Curious faces across the board. Alright kiddos, ya get to meet my little buddy Nishida tomorrow.”

“Nishida-san is coming here?” Haruka asked.  

 Kiryu turned to her, but was at a loss for words beyond “Yeah.” He didn’t want to admit that Nishida was coming to help with their budget. Haruka already worried enough about money. Majima pulled him back by the arm so he could see Haruka. 

“Yeah, I forgot to do some business stuff before I left, so he’s gonna spend the day here and give me a hand,” Majima said, then smiled at the rest of the table. “You guys’ll like him.”

 Haruka nodded. “Nishida-san has always been really nice to me.” She spoke loudly so everyone could hear, but the kids looked a lot less wary than when Kiryu informed them of Majima’s first visit. 

 Koji leaned forward, “Is he a, um… does he do the same job that you do, Uncle Majima?” he asked in a loud whisper. 

“Yep, he’s the general manager of Majima Construction.” Majima said. 

 Koji smiled and nodded, like he was in on a big secret. Kiryu heard a soft laugh from Haruka.

“He’s a good guy,” Majima continued, “and he might be bringin’ a pal of his with him, he wasn’t sure yet.”

 After most of the pizza was gone, the kids helped clean up and headed out to the beach. Kiryu held Majima’s arm, keeping him in the kitchen so they could talk. 

“Nishida’s bringing a pal?”

“Probably, yeah,” Majima said, like it were obvious. 

“Who?”

“That’s a surprise. But don’t worry, Kaz, I’d never bring anybody here who wasn’t good around kids.”

“It isn’t Minami, is it?” Kiryu asked. 

“Hah! Hell no. The man’s a menace,” Majima said fondly. “I’m actually puttin’ him in charge for the next couple of days. I gotta give Saejima a call and tell him to knock him out if he does anything too stupid.”

“So it’s not Saejima either.”

“Nope, and that’s yer last hint, Kiryu-chan!” Majima said, pointing a finger in his face. 

Kiryu took hold of his hand and squeezed it. He didn’t love the idea of an unknown Majima Family member showing up tomorrow, but since Majima was being so helpful, he decided to trust him. “Thanks for dinner, Goro.”

 Majima pulled his hand away and laughed. “Damn it’s good to be here. I’ll meet ya on the beach after I call the big guy.”

 The children built sandcastles quickly, so they could run around stomping them apart. It was still a favourite game, and the kids had all been eager to play it with Majima again. As expected, Majima didn’t disappoint, laughing and yelling with the kids as they destroyed their work. 

 Kiryu was happy to keep an eye on them from a distance, mostly because he’d eaten too much pizza to want to run around. He sat on a beach blanket between Haruka, who wanted to get a start on her homework, and Ayako, who was drawing the pink sunset over the water in front of them. 

“It’s really nice to see Uncle Majima again,” Akayo said.

“Yes, especially because it was my night to cook,” Haruka replied. 

 Kiryu smiled. There was still more laundry to be done, but he decided to leave it till tomorrow. He didn’t want to miss anything tonight. He’d been so preoccupied with the broken appliances lately that he hadn’t been as involved with the kids as he should be.

“You two really took charge this week,” Kiryu said to his oldest girls, “thanks for that.”

 Ayako looked back out at the sunset. “I just did what I thought you’d want me to do, Uncle Kaz.”

 They were interrupted by Eri, who had started to cry. Kiryu and the two girls stood up at once to investigate. 

 Majima had been giving Izumi a piggyback ride, and it looked as though Taichi had tried the same thing with Eri. 

“Taichi dropped me! On my knee!” Eri yelled as Kiryu knelt down beside her. There were no tears, she just looked jostled and upset. Kiryu carefully brushed the sand away from her leg as Taichi hastily apologized. 

“Does it still hurt?” Kiryu said, feeling over her knee. “Or was it just scary.”

“Um…” Eri thought for a moment. “I think just scary.”

“Good. Let’s get you back on your feet.” He turned to Taichi, And you-”

“I didn’t mean to!” Taichi said. 

“I know, Taichi. But you shouldn’t pick people up without knowing how to carry them. This isn’t the first time we’ve talked about this.” 

TThe other boys, who had all endured Taichi’s wrestling moves, nodded. Kiryu knew it wasn’t entirely his fault. Taichi was going through a big growth spurt, and it had made him oddly clumsy lately. Kiryu looked over at Majima, who was watching him closely. “Maybe Uncle Majima can help demonstrate.”

 The two men showed the older kids how it was done. It wasn’t complicated by any means, but because Uncle Majima was there, all the kids paid close attention.

After Taichi gave Izumi a much safer piggyback ride, he turned to Eri, but she was still unhappy and didn’t want to be carried anymore tonight. Taichi looked disappointed, but he accepted her decision with surprising maturity and apologized again. Kiryu was pleased. Taichi took his role as a big brother more seriously every year. 

 Later, once the kids had all said their goodnights, Kiryu went back to the kitchen to get the half-full bottle of champagne from the fridge. He took Majima back out to the beach and set up a blanket and the beach umbrella, shielding them from everything but the waves and the glow of the moon over the ocean. 

 Majima poured the champagne as Kiryu sat down beside him and lit two cigarettes at once. Majima reached out and took one directly from his mouth, his fingers lingering against Kiryu’s lips a moment longer than was needed. As Majima brought it to his own lips he chuckled. 

“When ya smile at me like that it makes me all tingly, Kaz.”

Kiryu put his arm around Majima’s waist. “I’m really happy you’re here.”

 The night was calm, with a gentle breeze that kept the humidity somewhat at bay. Behind the protective cover of the large beach umbrella, Majima leaned into Kiryu’s shoulder as they sat close together, drinking champagne out of their plastic cups. Majima did most of the talking, and Kiryu was happy to listen. Although Majima still kept him in the dark about a lot of his family’s operations, he told funny stories about his men, the ongoing issues that always plagued a large criminal organization like the Tojo Clan, and how he’d had lunch with Yuki when she was in town with her father. 

“Thanks again for… everything today.” Kiryu murmured after a long moment of comfortable silence. He rested his cheek against Majima’s soft hair. 

 Majima sighed, “I’ll do anything for you, Kaz. All ya have to do is let me.”

“All you’ve done today is be generous. What do you need right now?”

“You.”

“Sap,” Kiryu teased. He expected the usual protestation, but instead Majima looked thoughtful, and gazed out towards the ocean. 

“I’m sippin’ champagne on a warm, sandy beach under the bright stars and that pretty lil’ sliver of a moon. The man of my dreams has his big strong arm around me, and lets me be an uncle to a bunch of lil’ sweethearts who, for some fuckin’ reason, like havin’ me around.  Who wouldn’t feel sappy?”

The man of his dreams? Kiryu liked the sound of that. He held Majima closer, “You’ve been dreaming about me?” 

“Yeah, actually,” Majima said after a moment’s hesitation. “ Being with you… dammit, this is gonna sound nuts, but… I think you unlocked whatever part of my brain wasn’t lettin’ me remember good dreams. The nightmares ain’t gone, but don’t dread goin’ to sleep half as much as I used to.”

“Hmm,” Kiryu said, interested but unsure how to respond.

“Before, if I dreamt of you, it was always about losin’ ya somehow. Lately… you’ve been finding me again. It ain’t always the same dream, and it ain’t always sexy either. Sometimes we’re soldiers, or ronin, or boring old farmers, but we keep findin’ each other. And I’m dead serious, Kaz. It’s enough to make me believe in past lives.”

“We’re supposed to be together,” Kiryu said. He’d lost count of how many times he’d repeated those words. He kissed the side of Majima’s forehead, “It wouldn’t be too big a shock if that was also true a century ago. I’ve had dreams like that too.”

“I shoulda known you’d get it, Kaz,” Majima said, and squeezed his leg. “Just do me a favour. Next time, after we kick the bucket and find each other again, let’s not wait twenty fuckin’ years after we meet to do somethin’ about it.”

“Heh, I’ll do my best, but make sure that doesn’t happen for a long time. I need to see how acrobatic you’ll be when you’re in your eighties.”

 Majima nodded, “For the first time in my life, livin’ that long doesn’t sound half-bad.”

 Kiryu pulled the bottle out from where he had stuck it in the sand and poured them the last of the champagne. They knocked their glasses together, as if to solidify that future into reality. 

 The hand on Kiryu’s leg had been slowly creeping upwards, and was currently kneading his inner thigh. Kiryu moved his own hand under the back of Majima’s shirt so he could touch his bare back. Majima sighed and downed the rest of his drink. “I’d say it’s close enough to midnight, Kaz.”

“Finally.”

 Majima leaned his face into Kiryu’s neck to muffle his laugh. “I love that ya want this as much as I do. It’s been on my mind since the last time we fooled around on the beach,”

“I’ve missed you so- unh.”

 Kiryu was interrupted by a firm squeeze to his groin. He grabbed Majima’s arm and pulled him over till he was straddling him. It wasn’t easy to see in the dim light, but Kiryu caught a flash of teeth as Majima smiled, a beacon in the dark, leading him towards an inviting, perfect kiss. 

 Majima unbuttoned Kiryu’s shirt, then ran his hands down his chest. Majima’s tongue soon replaced his hands while he undid Kiryu’s pants. As his mouth continued down Kiryu’s torso, Majima’s hands were still at work. Soon, Majima had shifted down far enough so he could get his mouth around Kiryu’s cock.

 It wasn’t easy to stay quiet, but Kiryu managed a shaky deep breath as he laid all the way back on the beach blanket. “This has… been on my mind a lot too.”

 With his lips still around him, Majima let out a low laugh that Kiryu could feel, then swiped his tongue across the tip. “Shut up, Kazzy.”

“Heh, I’ll try.”

 All thoughts left Kiryu’s mind except for what was currently happening to him. He ran his hand through Majima’s soft hair, and Majima squeezed his thigh in return. 

 This continued for a while, and Majima didn’t seem to be in a hurry. Even as turned on as he was, Kiryu felt deeply relaxed. When Majima rested his head on Kiryu’s thigh to catch his breath, his hands continued where his mouth left off. 

“You rest,” Kiryu whispered, “let me.”

 He took hold of himself and heard Majima sigh and whisper back something about a front row seat. Instead of resting, Majima planted gentle kisses along his thigh, while his hands cradled Kiryu’s balls. “So hot, Kaz,” Majima murmured, “so fucking hot.”

 It was hard to stay quiet, but Kiryu managed. He didn’t have to tell Majima how close he was, because suddenly his hot mouth was around him again, encouraging him to keep going, fast and hard, till finally, Kiryu hit his peak. He could hear Majima swallowing, which overwhelmed his senses as he rode out his orgasm, till his body was able to relax once more. 

“Fuck, I needed that,” Majima said. 

 Kiryu chuckled, feeling pleasantly dizzy. “I was going to say the same thing.” He stretched, fixed his pants and sat up, pulling Majima with him. 

“Where am I goin’?” Majima asked as Kiryu moved him so he was sitting between Kiryu’s thighs with his legs outstretched. After Kiryu pulled Majima’s shirt off, Majima leaned his back against Kiryu’s chest and looked out at the waves. The light was faint, but they could see the shimmer of the waves in the distance. 

Kiryu kissed the side of Majima’s neck. “Thanks for taking care of me,” he whispered. He held Majima’s chest with one hand, and let his other hand slide down between his legs. “You’re so hard, Goro.”

“‘Course I am, darlin’,” was Majima’s quiet response. “Ya can’t cum in my mouth and not expect me to get a hard-on.”

 Majima’s head fell back, his lips against Kiryu’s neck as his cock was freed, rock hard and already leaking. Kiryu slid his fingers along the shaft, and began to pump his hand. Majima’s legs flexed as a faint whimper escaped his lips. 

“Harder, Kaz,” Majima said, “I’ve been worked up for half an hour. This won’t take long.”

“Whatever you want, Goro,” Kiryu murmured, “I love to feel you like this.”

 Majima craned his neck so their lips could meet. Kiryu could feel the tension in his body, the slight quiver of his muscles. “Yeah, Kaz,” Majima hissed, “just like that.”

 With his left hand, Kiryu squeezed Majima’s left pectoral and circled the hard nipple. Majima whispered his name and kissed him again, a long, hard kiss till he had to breathe, leaning his head back against Kiryu’s shoulder. 

 Majima was right, it didn’t take long. Kiryu stroked him faster, his movements guided by Majima whispering in his ear. After another low moan, Majima grabbed Kiryu’s left hand and placed it hard against his mouth to keep himself quiet, holding tight to Kiryu’s arm. The way he writhed and shook nearly had Kiryu as excited as before. 

 Kiryu leaned them back far enough that when Majima came, he did so onto his bare abdomen instead of the blanket. He bit down on Kiryu’s hand as he climaxed, but Kiryu didn’t care. It was always gratifying to make Majima come apart like this. 

“Kazuma,” Majima whispered as Kiryu slowed his hand to a stop. He kissed Kiryu’s hand and chuckled. “Didn’t chomp ya too hard, did I?”

“Heh, no. That was hot,” Kiryu said. “Really hot.”

 Majima sighed. “It’s good to be back, Kiryu-chan.”

“It’s good to have you back, Majima-chan.”

Majima’s giddy laugh was loud enough that Kiryu had to cover his mouth again.

Chapter 75: The Big Guy

Kiryu slept well, and waking up with his partner curled around him always improved his mood. He took a deep breath and tried to relax, but couldn’t help dreading what was to come this afternoon. Talking about his finances with Nishida and some mystery guest wasn’t his idea of a good time, but he couldn’t be upset at Majima for organizing this for him.

 When Majima stirred, he immediately  grabbed Kiryu’s hand to see if he’d left a mark from last night’s bite, and looked almost disappointed when he couldn’t find anything. 

“Mornin’, Kaz,” Majima said, and kissed the inside of his wrist. “It’s funny, after all that talk last night, I don’t think I dreamed at all.”

 Kiryu touched the side of Majima’s cheek, “Me neither.”

“Today’ll be good, Kaz. We’ll get all this shit started, and finish it on Monday mornin’. I’m takin’ the afternoon flight on Tuesday, so we’ll get some good evenings with the kids, and get some alone time Tuesday mornin’. The kind where we don’t end up with sand in any delicate areas.”

 Kiryu frowned, “I had a good time last night.”

 Majima rolled on top of his chest. “So did I, darlin’. What’s more romantic than a handy under the stars?” His words almost sounded sarcastic, but his smile was warm and genuine. Kiryu pulled him closer by his upper arms and kissed him, enjoying the feel of Majima’s biceps under his fingers.

“Such a firm grip, Kiryu-chan,” Majima murmured against Kiryu’s lips, “I can still feel that big strong hand wrapped around my dick.” He sucked Kiryu’s bottom lip into his mouth, but didn’t push for anything more. Slow, unhurried kisses continued until the alarm sounded.

 The two men put together breakfast with Shiro, who was eager to show Majima how his kitchen skills had improved. He eagerly told Majima how last week, he’d gutted and prepared a large fish that Kiryu had caught all by himself. 

“Precision like that’s good for a doctor. Especially a surgeon,” Majima said.

 Shiro lit up. “I want to be a doctor.”

 Majima held back a laugh. “I know, kiddo.”

 Shiro, having finished his part of preparing the breakfast, ran out of the kitchen to tell the others. Kiryu nudged Majima’s shoulder with his own. “You just made his day.”

“I was just bein’ honest. That’s a handy skill you’re teachin’ him,” Majima said, with that warm smile that made Kiryu want to drag him back to the bedroom. 

“I like how nice you are with the kids,” Kiryu said. “You know you’re going to have to be nice to Nishida when he gets here too, right?”

 Majima stopped dead. He slowly looked over at Kiryu and spoke in a hushed tone. “I hadn’t thought about that.”

“Heh, don’t look horrified, Goro. It’ll be fine.” 

“What the hell am I gonna do, Kaz?” Majima said, just above a whisper, still looking comically appalled. Then, much louder, “Don’t laugh, Kiryu-chan! I can’t have him seein’ me all gooey-”

“Nishida will understand,” Kiryu interrupted. “He knows how tough you are.” He decided not to mention that Nishida had once called Majima a big softie. It would only invoke Majima’s wrath. Instead Kiryu put a hand on his arm. “He’d probably respect you less if you were cruel to a bunch of civilian children.”

“Yeah. Yeah, alright,” Majima said, but his eyebrows stayed furrowed.

“And the guy he’s bringing will understand too. We’re all old friends, right?”

Majima laughed. “Nice try, Kazzy.”

 Kiryu touched his cheek, “No matter who it is, I’m guessing you’ll probably want to put the patch back on.”

 Majima slapped a hand over his bad eye, “Damn, almost forgot I wasn’t wearin’ it. That only ever happens when I’m here.”

 They sat down to breakfast after Majima ran to get an eyepatch. The kids all looked happy, which wasn’t unusual for a Sunday morning, but Majima being there helped. The kids took turns showing Majima their art, school projects, and their favourite new books and shows. Majima had no problems being gooey with them, and it always melted Kiryu’s heart how completely at home Majima looked when surrounded by the children. 

 

 Later, after they’d finished lunch, Majima and the kids were kicking a ball around in the front yard while Kiryu tackled the last load of laundry. It was easier to feel good about the new washer today, and he liked how the overhead light didn’t dim when he turned the machine on. 

 He was about to join the others, when Izumi came running in, calling his name. 

“What is it, Izumi?” Kiryu asked, relieved to see her smiling.

“Uncle Kaz! The biggest man in the…  in the whole WORLD is here!”

“Hmm,” Kiryu said, letting her pull him through the house by her hand. 

 Maybe Majima had thrown him off and it was Saejima who’d come to see them. But the biggest man in the world? Saejima wasn’t that much bigger than he was, Kiryu thought with a frown. Taller, yes, but not by much. Sure he was wider, but as far as strength goes, Kiryu thought they were evenly matched. He stood up straight as they walked towards the front door. 

 Kiryu and Izumi quickly slipped into their shoes. He could hear laughter, which was a good sign. When they stepped out into the sun, Kiryu had to smile. Now he understood.  

 Standing in front of him, with Koji and Mitsuo hanging off of each flexed bicep, was none other than Gary Buster Holmes. 

“Kiryu-san. Hello.” Gary said in English. 

“Heh, Hello, Gary.”

 Majima, from the other side of the yard, chuckled. “Surprised, Kiryu-chan?”

“Very.”

“Remember the big tower I was talkin’ about yesterday?” Majima asked the kids, “These guys helped me build it.”

 Kiryu could only see Gary, until Nishida stepped out from behind him, holding an extra-large cardboard box. “Thank you for inviting us here, Kiryu-san. It’s as beautiful as Boss Majima described.”

 Majima scoffed, “They don’t wanna hear…” he barked, then trailed off as he noticed all the little faces watching him. He plastered on a smile. “Why dontcha show ‘em what ya brought ‘em, Nishida.”

“Right away, Boss.”

 Nishida placed the box down on the outside table and ripped the tape off. Haruka, who was closest to him, laughed when she saw the contents and helped hand out the yellow Majima Construction hard hats. They were too big for the kids, but that just made them  look extra cute. A chorus of thank yous followed. 

“This is a nice house, Kiryu,” Gary said. “These children are very friendly and energetic.”

“Thanks. Your Japanese sounds even better than the last time we spoke.”

“Yes,” Gary replied with a laugh, “I’ve learned that spending time with men who think it’s funny to teach foreigners the wrong words is not the best way to learn the language.”

 Majima, who was helping Eri with her helmet strap, looked over with a guilty smile, “Aw, that was years ago, Gary. You were workin’ for the Florist back then.” 

“That’s true, Boss.” Gary replied  

 Koji, who stood between Kiryu and Gary, stepped forward, “And you work for Uncle Majima now?”

“Yes. Majima Construction is a number one company to work for!” he said loudly, then looked back at Kiryu, “I’m working part-time right now because I’m taking classes to finish my business degree.”

 Kiryu nodded. The Gatekeeper of Purgatory was becoming a businessman? That would have been more surprising if not for the last time they’d met back in March.

On the top of the unfinished Kamurocho Hills, Kiryu had learned that Gary was much happier working for the construction company than he was as the Florist’s bodyguard, and had been studying Japanese during his lunch breaks. The fact that he was taking business classes made his appearance today make more sense. The kids were very interested in their large guest, and were all gathered around looking up at him. 

“Do you have to do a lot of homework, Gary-san?” Izumi asked. 

“Sometimes. Do you do homework yet, little girl?”

“Sometimes,” Izumi replied, nodding solemnly, before running off to show her helmet to Mame, who amid all the excitement, was trying to nap. 

“Hey, Gary, what’s that thing ya keep sayin’ is gonna change the world? Appys?” Majima asked. He’d moved on to helping Shiro with his helmet.

“Apps, Boss,” Gary replied. He pulled one of those new smart phones out of his pocket. “There will be applications for everything someday. There is cash to be milked.”

 Kiryu decided to ignore that turn of phrase. Gary touched one of the square icons and a full glass of beer appeared on the large touch screen, which emptied when Gary pretended to drink it. The kids were all impressed and asked him to do it again. 

“My little girl likes that one too,” Gary said after his second “drink”. He pointed at Eri, “She’s about your age.”

“You have a daughter?” Kiryu asked. He’d learned more about Gary Buster Holmes in the last minute than he ever had.

 Gary nodded. “My little angel. I don’t talk about her at work. Everybody’s lives must have private parts. 

 Nishida looked sharply away, and Kiryu wondered if he was trying to hide a laugh. The way Majima glared at him confirmed that. 

 Koji, who had become fascinated with drums ever since he’d played Mikio’s bongos last month, had started rhythmically slapping his helmet. Taichi and Eri joined in, as did Majima.  

“Why don’t you guys go do that down on the beach.” Kiryu said when the sound became too loud to be able to talk comfortably. 

“Will you play baseball with us, Gary-san?” Mitsuo asked. 

“We would all like that.” Riona said, very loudly, then turned to Kiryu and smiled.

“Gary-san’s gotta help me with my homework first,” Majima said, “but we’ll have time to come sit on the beach after that.

 The older kids leapt into action, and started leading the way to the sand. Kiryu was thankful that the younger ones didn’t need too much convincing. Ayako waved at them before disappearing with the rest down to the beach. 

 Nishida came over to stand by Kiryu. “They really are so polite, Kiryu-san. And Haruka sure has grown. I almost didn’t recognize her.”

“Thanks, Nishida. It’s funny to see everyone wearing a helmet except you.” 

 After a last look towards the beach to make sure the kids were far enough away, Majima strode towards the house, pausing to slap the top of Nishida’s head as he walked by. Nishida sighed and rubbed his head. “I should have brought mine.”

“Come on, men. We got work to do,” Majima called from the door. 

 Kiryu followed his guests inside, trying to keep a grip on his stress level. Gary had to duck under the doorframe to get into the house, and his shoes took up a lot of space on the floor inside, and they weren’t even the boots Gary usually wore. The four men sat down at the low table in Kiryu’s room. Majima had brought in the largest fan from the kitchen, which helped cool the small space.

 Kiryu was about to shut the door behind them when Haruka appeared. In her hands was a large envelope. 

“What’s this?” Kiryu asked. 

“Receipts from groceries and clothes. One of my teachers said that some people save receipts for when they do taxes and stuff, so I’ve been saving these for, um, a while. I don’t know if they’ll help, but here.”

 Kiryu took the envelope, which was full to the brim of papers. He should have known she’d clue in to what was going on. “Was it that hard to believe that we were helping Majima with his business?”

 Haruka smiled. “Not for the little kids. I think just for me and Ayako knew. Maybe Koji. If there’s anything else I can do to help, I’ll do it.”

“Thanks, Haruka,” Kiryu said, “I didn’t want you worrying about this but I guess you already were so… I’ll let you know how it goes.”

 Haruka nodded. “Taichi and I are going shopping today, remember? But I’ll make sure Ayako and Koji don’t let anyone disturb you.”

 After Kiryu pat her on the head, Haruka shut the door for him. Kiryu felt awful. He thought he was doing a good job of shielding the kids from his worries, but once again, apparently not. He sat down at the table, and immediately Majima swatted his arm. When Kiryu looked at him, he smiled.

“What’d she give ya?”

 Kiryu explained the envelope as he pulled out the stacks of receipts, carefully organized and separated with paper clips. 

 In the minute it took to have his conversation with Haruka, Nishida and Gary had already delved into his documents, from Kiryu’s contract and job description, to pay stubs and all his monthly payments. Nishida was pleased with Haruka’s receipts, and was surprised that Kiryu had never thought to get reimbursed for school clothes. He also looked shocked when Kiryu reluctantly told him how much of his own paycheque was going towards necessities for the kids. 

 Majima was just as involved, and Kiryu’s three guests were diligent as they examined and questioned the whole of Morning Glory’s finances. Gary Buster Holmes had brought a laptop with him, and created a number of spreadsheets that Majima was impressed by, but Kiryu barely understood. 

 Despite their assurances that there was a lot they could do to help him, Kiryu’s embarrassment was strong. He should have been able to figure all this out himself, and the idea that he might be holding the kids back by being incompetent with their budget weighed heavily. Every one of Kiryu’s instincts were telling him to shut down this whole meeting, or better yet, run right out of the house, but he grit his teeth and stayed put. 

 This is for the kids, Kiryu kept reminding himself. Majima smacked his arm every time he asked him a question, which Kiryu knew was a covert gesture of affection. It was surprisingly helpful at keeping him calm. 

 Two long hours later, Majima clapped his hands together. “Well, this should be more than enough to go on, huh? These guys’ll work on all of this tonight, and we’ll get together tomorrow morning to give ya the full plan. For now, we should hit the beach.”

 Kiryu nodded. Nishida gathered the documents that covered the table and placed them in a large briefcase he’d brought with him. Gary shut his laptop and put away the small reading glasses he was wearing. 

“You two should stay for dinner,” Kiryu said to Gary and Nishida. “Shiro wants to make his coconut curry tonight, and we always make lots of food.”

 The two men looked to their boss for guidance. Majima sneered. “What’re ya lookin’ at me for. Don’t refuse Kiryu-chan, or there’s hell to pay when I get back.”

“Heh, I guess that answers that,” Kiryu said. 

 Nishida and Gary left the room, but Majima took Kiryu’s arm, keeping him inside while he shut the door. “Ya did good, Kaz. Like Nishida said, we’re in better shape than he thought.”

Kiryu was about to reply, but Majima grabbed him and kissed him hard, cradling Kiryu’s face in his hands, till some of the tension Kiryu was feeling started to ease. Before he could say a word. Majima opened the door and left. 

 Kiryu stayed in his room and took a deep breath. He could hear Majima talking loudly to his employees as they put their shoes on. Kiryu still felt like sending everyone away and telling them to forget it, but he didn’t. He would bite the bullet and get this done. For the kids, for Majima, and just maybe, even for himself.

Notes:

The alternate title for this chapter is Holmes on Homes, but that would have given away who it was, and only Canadians my age and older would have understood.