Gundam Wing Fan Fiction ❯ Angel Heart ❯ Family secrets-Can you open your heart, young angel? part one ( Chapter 6 )

Notes: Hee hee! Okay peeps! It took me long enough but here it is; the chapter from hell!! It's so long I had to break it into two parts! Now about the content…it is going to be a little lemonish but, in my opinion, if there is no penetration, it's not a full blow lemon. Silverfox thought otherwise…*Loud whoots coming from behind Sparky* …so because of her, I'm giving this little number a lemon warning. This is also the start of my musical side and yes…song lyrics do wonders to a fanfic. Much thanks goes to Silverfox for being my partner in yiffy crime and her lovely input. DAISUKE, SILVER-IMOUTO!!! A huge high five goes out to Cassima, who is back as my beta. I'm terrified as I'm typing each word slowly feeling the bunt of her eyes on my fic. Please be gentle, EC. Now to the rest of yous…Enjoy.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

 

Angel Heart

Chapter 6: Family secrets-Can you open your heart, young angel?

Part one

 

Duo watched the beautiful scenery passed by as the cab quietly drove down Calador Street. This was the first time he had traveled out this far by himself in a while. With the passage of each home, the land between the residential areas grew more and more. One hand seemed to stray for its companion; that ever-present plait that usually swung low down the owner's back and casually flowing with every movement. This was Duo's comfort whenever he was nervous; the first thing he would reach for was that silky weave of hair, playing with the silky tip back and forth between his nimble fingers. He reached into his front pocket, pulling out the tiny slip of pink paper. Purple stained orbs scanned rapidly over the wrinkled parchment within his hands, imprinting the gentle stroke of the ink on his mind. It was Quatre's address. If he would just relax and let life flow the way he wanted it to, this trip would be only the beginning of others to come.

 

His vision focused skyward towards fluffy pillows floating over within a spread of blue and each feathery cloud captured the dreams of dreamers while the innocent searched for answers towards the horizons. Duo didn't have to yell like he usually did, always having to deal with a driver who wanted his fare before he would step in the car or one that didn't know where he or she was going. For the first time, the lithe dreamer didn't have to worry at all. In fact, he felt a sense of relief since Quarte had given him the number of a private company that his family was friends with. The nice elderly man smiled back at him as he turned back around and turned up the latest song on the radio. It seemed that the driver's main priority was to relax his passenger. Duo smiled, watching the driver continue onward down the street and heading towards an area that looked like it was a dead end. Before long, the car stopped and the driver nodded in his direction calling in slang that they arrived at their designation.

 

A family of butterflies fluttered in his stomach while the anxiety was building within his mental state. He took a deep breath, warm air exhaled from his mouth and he forced himself to relax. Smiling and thanking the kindhearted driver, Duo reached into his pocket pulling out the right amount for the fare along with a little extra for the great ride and the entertainment. His favorite Nike bag was on the seat next to him so he grabbed that and scooted over to open the door, which opened with a loud click. He climbed out of the car and slung the large duffel bag over his left shoulder, oomphing as it hit against his back. He knew he shouldn't have packed like a maniac.

 

Vision adjusting, violet orbs blurred a little from the changing dark to light, as he looked skyward again. The sun was out still, but barely as he bowed his head and noticed that his watch had struck seven p.m. Imaginary feet were kicking him in the backside, mentally wishing he would have just taken Quatre on his offer and let his friend drive him to the house. Seemed pride ruled out over convenience yet again. It didn't feel right with Quatre doing everything for him, it made him feel weak and inadequate, one of the many things he didn't want to be to anyone. But his most important concern was he didn't want Quatre's money. With all the money Quatre's thrown his way…he only wanted his friendship. He had always preferred to do things his way and that's why he was standing at the end of the road, staring at the beckoning forest before him.

 

The cab rode off down the road leaving him alone to his thoughts with the wondrous sounds of wildlife. Crickets chirped their secret songs to attract mates while he stood there standing in the middle of nowhere, dressed only in a long black overcoat and cotton pajamas underneath. Quatre's house had to be around here somewhere but from his view, all he saw were miles and miles of trees. Shrugging his shoulders, he started to walk.

 

A small sparkle caught his attention and he walked towards it. There before him stood what he believed to a gate--a massive iron gate. Rapidly he blinked, not believing the girth or the height of the metal bars. His eyes were not playing tricks on him. “Winner Estates” as the words floated huskily from his mouth, words delicately written in a winding maze of steel and black coal.

 

“This has to be the entrance.” Quatre instructed him to go to the black gate and he would leave it unlocked for him and the other guys. It took only a tiny nudge and the metal latch opened with an eerie sound.

 

Duo nearly jumped out his skin from the noise. It was bad enough he was nervous. Either his mind was playing tricks on him or he guessed the gate needed some oil. Taking a deep breath while his knees started to knock, he entered the gate, gently closing it behind himself. Fear filled him but strangely enough it was coupled with excitement and curiosity as he embarked on this new adventure from his secluded life.

 

~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~ ***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~*

 

From the front gate, a stone path was his guide as Duo continued onward. The path was long, the walkway itself covered with cream colored rounded stones like pebbles on a beach. Covered on both sides, the whole area had rows and rows of tall redwood trees. It was weird but it felt like he had just stepped into a fairytale, going through an enchanted forest to save his cursed prince locked far away in a tower. A giggle escaped his mouth. He didn't have a boyfriend much less a prince-though secretly he thought someone was `princely' in his eyesight. If the boy could just see it for himself... His footsteps flowed, one step in front of the other and then another as his silent gait continued up the footpath. Taking a quick look at his watch, it was five minutes later by the time he reached the house.

 

And what a house this was! Duo blinked in astonishment as his deep violet glowed, settling on a grand mansion that seemed to appear out of nowhere. This had to be the great Winner Manor. For the first time in his life, he was speechless. Trying to describe such a magnificent display in architecture would be an understatement. The house itself resembled those homes from yesteryear, something out of the historical novels he read. The style was Victorian with its high paned windows and beautifully designed turrets high on the rooftop. “No way.” The words escaped from his mouth in a rush and he couldn't stop them as he continued gawking at the majestic residence, which was more of an historical restoration rather than someone's home. “This can't be the house.” Just from his view, the whole area continued on for miles and the region looked as if Duo had entered another world as he stood a couple of feet from the porch.

 

He walked up the five steps leading to the humongous porch that was already furnished with a swinging couch, a sitting table and flowerpots aligned along the edges. Eight marble columns stood holding up of the porch's bricked roof and there was an aroma of cherry oak and vanilla everywhere. Even the main entrance door was stunning: two large Victorian style oak doors, carved with such intricate detail and care as if the artist wanted to instill life into the door. He noticed the intercom system was just to his right but the knockers on the door grabbed his attention like someone pulling him by the collar. The design was very unusual and covered entirely in brass. Two lions sat at the feet of four angels, their tails twirled around each other and around Quatre's family insignia. It was a very rare piece since Quatre's family was Arabic but there it stood before him, the majestic animals and their heavenly masters guarding the family and spiritually protecting them from harm.

 

“I wonder where's the security?” Duo didn't see any guards around, something that was usually associated with a house of this magnitude but he did noticed security cameras while walking of the footpath. “At least he has a surveillance system. But the size of this house…I wonder how it looks inside.” Curiosity got the better of him as he reached for intercom, wanting to be buzzed in. He pushed the button twice and when no one answered, one hand reached for his other option, grasping the knocker firmly with one hand and banging hard to get the owner's attention.

 

Within seconds of the second series of knocks, the door was thrown wide open and Duo found his arms filled with a very energetic Quatre!

 

“DUO-CHAN! YOU MADE IT!!!”

 

~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~ ***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~*

 

Duo's face broke into the biggest grin while his eyes stared at his blonde haired friend's attire. The crazy boy was wearing the bottoms to an expensive set of white and blue plaid pajamas along with a white undershirt. His golden locks, feathered threads flowing around his head, glowed happily with his movements. The boy looked as innocent as a lamb yet Duo knew better. But Duo had to laugh because sitting onto of Quatre's head comfortably was the kamagorou1, its large rabbit ears flopping down perfectly.

 

“Come in! Come in!” Replied Quatre, eager to see what the chestnut boy was wearing as he pulled him passed through the foyer and into the main living room. He helped Duo with his bag and took the incentive as he unbuttoned in Duo's trench coat. He ended up squealing with glee. “Waii! Duo! Those are so cute!”

 

Duo just looked down at his ordinary baggy pajamas filled with bouncing foxes playing in a meadow. They were practically new since Duo preferred to sleep in an undershirt and boxer shorts.

 

“Wufei and Heero are on their way now and Trowa's coming too!”

 

“Trowa?” Duo questioned. He had heard that name before.

 

“Heero's older brother!” answered Quatre, tapping a finger against his chin. “Oh! That's right. He wasn't there the night of the monopoly game. Wufei insisted someone with a little sense be here. He's only doing it mainly because of Heero.” Oh! Quatre couldn't remember the last time he had someone sleep over. Most of the time he was alone in this house but that would change. Happily, he grabbed one of Duo's hands while taking Duo's bag from off his shoulder with the other. His cheerful voice filled the room, calling for one of the maids to take Duo's bag to his room.

 

Duo stopped the young woman as she approached, unzipping his bag and grabbing his teddy bear for Quatre. The maid just smiled at him, her brown eyes sparkling at the beautiful young man before she carried the bag up to the room her young master had prepared for Mr. Maxwell in the west wing.

 

“Alright then.” Quatre began, speaking to Duo, “You can help me order the pizza. I know what everyone likes…all but you.” As Quatre walked, Duo followed behind him causally, gaping at the grand staircase in front of him, the golden chandelier hanging overhead, and the expensive artwork hanging from every space on the walls. Quatre blinked as he noticed Duo had stopped breathing in total shock. “Oh! Gomen about the size.” A hand went up to sheepishly scratch behind his head. “My dad's kinda…rich.”

 

“Kinda?!?” yelled Duo in surprise. This was kinda to him?!

 

“But hey!” Quatre exclaimed, clasping his hands together with Duo's. “What's mine is yours and etc…etc! Besides its not like it's my money!” He then handed Duo his kamagorou from on top of his head, exchanging it for Duo's teddy bear. “Would you like a tour, Duo? After we order the pizza?”

 

Duo frowned in spite of himself. He felt like Quatre was showing off again. “You don't have to buy my friendship, Quatre.”

 

Shocked, Quatre felt his heart racing in pride from Duo's quiet declaration. He had already felt a rapport from this boy from the very beginning and knowing that Duo would never try to use him in any way, shape, or form, was a reassurance in itself. Being the youngest son of the Winner family, Quatre did not trust many people just like he knew Duo didn't. His eyes sparkled with this revelation. Not only was Duo beautiful on the outside but inside was a soul pure as gold. He didn't know how to answer so he simply smiled and replied, “I didn't.”

 

Quarte's odd expression towards him caused Duo's cheeks to redden and his eyes traveled down to the fuchsia bunny within his hands. This was a true kamagorou. Its dark eyes were round as saucers, bright with mischief, while big pink ears flopped so innocently, just waiting for Duo to tell him some secrets. Upon further inspection, the toy seemed to be smiling at Duo. Sighing to himself as his hand caressed the rabbit's fur, Duo wished it were truly his. “This is too beautiful Quatre-san, especially for my run down teddy bear.”

 

Pale arms folded over a chest covered by white cotton. “Oh please. Gods, I don't know why it's not run down either.” Quatre giggled, tugging at one of the bunny's ears. “I think Sakuma-san made it indestructible, something about gundamium woven fur? He puts a lot of mileage into his toys.”

 

A statement that only caused Duo's face to break into a smile, his usually large mouth widening ear to ear. Quatre was so crazy and so…

 

Something broke.

 

Salty droplets began to fall from surprised amethyst for no reason. He didn't even realize it was happening until the world before him started to blur and a tart taste was on his lips. More droplets fell, soaking through the light material of his pajama top. “Huh?” A single hand reached up to touch his heart-shaped face. “What's happening?!”, his voice murmured barely a whisper.

 

A flood was pouring down his friend's face and Quatre stood confused, blinking at the sudden display of emotion. “What's happening?!”

 

“I don't know…” Duo cried, his voice sounding like a kitten and though he wiped his face, thicker streams of tears flowed like a raging river. Frustration showed on his features not understanding why this was happening to him. He hadn't cried like this in a very long time and the dam inside of his body finally broke from its hinges and took that very moment to gush down his face in a torrent. “Why can't I stop crying?”

 

Quatre thought a moment at their little problem. There could only be one explanation for this type of emotional release. He smiled at the sobbing frustrated boy. “Maybe…because you're happy, Duo.” He frowned when Duo shook his head, trying to deny this fact. Slightly irritated from the lack of self-esteem, Quatre just reached out for Duo's hands rubbing his comforting warmth into them. “I cried a long time silently. No one knew, Duo…But then me and Wufei became friends. It's weird yet it's funny as heck the way we are around each other. It's like we were meant to be friends. Fei acts like this hard ass but…I've seen another side of him. He's really sweet and the moment he knows someone is hurt or sad, he gets all flustered and wants to protect them.”

 

Chestnut bangs hid tearful violet hues as Duo tried to hide his embarrassed face from Quatre. “You're so nice, Quatre-kun. You remind me of my brother.”

 

One golden eyebrow raised as Quatre stared at him curiously. “Is that a good thing?”

 

Duo couldn't help but chuckle a little. “It's just…” He paused, not knowing whether to continue or stop, not wanting to scare his new friend any further. His life had been a living hell but things were meant to get better for him. Quatre was looking at him with such trust and willingness to understand. Would it have been better to leave his past in the dark and let Quatre just know what he wanted him to? His conscience told him no. He couldn't do that nor could he lie to Quatre. Quatre wouldn't have it. Especially with Quatre and that uncanny sense to read a person's heart. Sighing, Duo decided it was better if he just spoke what he felt. “It's just…” his voice cracked about to cry again, “so many things have happened to us…”

 

Two fingers pressed against his lips, gently silencing him. Looking into those trusting aquamarine eyes, Quatre took him by the hand and led him to one of the couches by the large windows adorning his enormous living room, which had a peaceful view over a garden. He gave Duo time to adjust before the boy continued in his narration.

 

“All the running, Quatre-kun. I don't know if I can handle this anymore.”

 

Quatre blinked at him, not really understanding but not pressing him for further information. What Duo needed now was a listener.

 

Duo sighed, glossy eyes looking up into Quarte's aquamarine. He had sat down with his feet planted square on the floor but now they were bent to his chest while his arms wrapped around them protectively and his head leaned on them. Quatre still reached for one of his hands, giving him some reassurance to go on. From his hunched position he continued in his tale. “Didn't you hear the rumors about me? Everyone knows what my father did to me. I know the only reason you're being nice is because you feel sorry.”

 

So…the rumors were true. No matter. An undeniable force flowed through Quatre's body and pity wasn't it. Pride was flowing through the Arabian, pride for this lonely beautiful boy before him. Sorry? How could he feel sorry for such a strong person? Quatre disagreed, shaking his head indicating that fact to Duo. “No…” His right hand rose, his thumb absently rubbed over Duo's knuckles.

 

“Then why?” questioned Duo, his face looking up from his lap and his eyes focusing on Quatre's answer.

 

The smile on Quatre's face gradually faded. “You survived what happened to you, Duo-kun. You don't need my pity or sympathy. What you need is friendship…something I'll gladly give to you. What happened before is over and now you're starting to truly heal.”

 

Duo still wouldn't buy that, his confidence the size of a safety pin. “But…you're one of the smartest guys in school! Why would you want to associate or waste your time on something like me?”

 

“Something?!” Quatre yelled, the smile returning to his angelic face. “You are not a something, Duo. To answer your question…because…I don't think you're a waste. Most of our class is but not you, Duo.” His arms crossed over his chest upset that Duo thought so low of himself. Where was the crazy, highly intelligent boy he met in class? “Please! You aren't stupid or dependent like those idiots. I like that in a person. And…you're just like me. I see a part of myself within you every time we're together at school or just chilling out. Maybe that's why I like you, Duo Maxwell.”

 

Speechless. Duo was struck speechless again by Quatre's words. The therapists he met for the past two years were telling him the same thing but he didn't believe it. School became his cure yet his social relationships were still damaged since he didn't want anyone until he saw Wufei. Thoughts ran rampant through his mind as he tried to analyze himself. Did Quatre see something in him that he couldn't see? What was so special about him? He thought he was fine. “Quatre…” It was still unbelievable that anyone much less Quatre thought that highly of him. No one ever put him in high regard like that before and really meant it…all except Prof. Noin or his brother. Though his mind was still going through the motions, his body didn't give a damn…it needed healing. Responding before his mouth could, he grabbed the blonde boy tightly, hugging him against himself. The moment his head touched Quarte's broad shoulder, tears poured down his face in a surge. With Quatre holding on to him, it felt like he was cleansing his soul for all his past transgressions. Could Quatre be the angel guarding over his soul, his guardian of his dreams? He didn't care as his emotions got the best of him, clinging onto Quarte's body like he was a life preserver.

 

Quatre hesitated at first, not used to this much affection. Affection wasn't even a word to him much less family and he wouldn't have been if not for his Nanny, his Manganac bodyguards and the staff at the mansion. They were his real family, treating him like their own and not like a doll like the cold feelings of the true master of the house. But this great warmth in his arms…it felt different…like he wanted to protect Duo. He wanted to be his guardian. His heart pounded and rather than panic, the sheer warmth of the boy's trust and heart won out. There wasn't any more hesitation since he knew what Duo needed from him and in a sense what he needed for himself. Pale arms finally closed around the sobbing boy happily, a few tears squeezing from his own aquamarines. “Screw Wufei and his pronunciations!”

 

A tiny giggle escaped from Quatre's shoulder, growing in its intensity as Duo leaped up laughing! The laughter was contagious as they both envisioned the Chinese grump chastising Quatre yet again and soon both boys burst out laughing from the hilarity of the situation. Duo felt so good to finally trust someone other than his brother. The laughter continued and a thought rose in Duo's mind, a secret so deep and carefully guarded not even his brother knew. But should he tell Quatre? He had to tell someone before he burst. Taking a deep breath, Duo finally felt the confidence to tell Quatre something he hid for so long.

 

“Quatre, Can I tell you a secret?” He didn't even realize his eyes were becoming really dewy before they shifted again, becoming focus and determined.

 

“Hai!” nodded Quarte, “I won't tell anyone! Not even Wufei! Not even if he tickles me…”

 

Taking a deep breath, the fullness from his bangs was covering over his beautiful eyes. It was hard just to say the words. “I…like…Wufei.”

 

An imaginary pot slammed him upside his head and Quatre's mouth dropped to the floor in surprise. “REALLY?!?!” Squeals and giggles echoed within the spacious room as he clamped his hand over his mouth, shocked beyond belief. This was his plan in the first place, to get these two lonely ones together but only after he had gotten to really know Wufei. He never expected Duo to share the same feelings for the shy Chinese boy! Wufei would faint from this little piece of news! “Oh my goodness! You two would be so cute together!”

 

“Since the first day I arrived at the campus…” Duo confessed, in a very dreamy expression. But the dream soon ended as his face morphed to tears again. “Don't tell him, Quat! PLEASE!”

 

He pledged his allegiance, shaking his head and raised two fingers up as a symbol to never to betray Duo's trust. “I won't!” Quatre then enclosed Duo's hands into his again, pulling the slender boy closer to him so he could whisper in his ear. “Tell you what. I'll tell you who I like…”

 

Blinking, Duo looked at him, suddenly anxious for Quatre's answer but mentally already knowing the results.

 

Licking his drying lips with the tip of his tongue, Quarte took a deep breath and exclaimed, “It's Heero.”

 

Duo drew back, blushing and actually bouncing like an idiot on the couch!! “I knew it! I saw the way you were acting at the restaurant.” The whole gloomy mood changed instantly with that little tidbit of information. Who would have thought they would like the fabled football captain and his relative, the one person who they knew had more sticks up his ass than those idiots from Quatre's annual book society.

 

“…but you know that he likes you, Quat!”

 

Those bright aquamarines blinked, widening from Duo's statement in disbelief. That couldn't be true. “Iya!!” he exclaimed in skepticism. “He's straighter than an Midwest freeway.” Then his beautiful jewels lost their luster, looking so sad. “I mean you SEE how all the girls love him.” His head bowed in defeat towards his lap. “He's so popular and I'm such a geek…”

 

Looking at Quatre like he was stupid, Duo couldn't believe what he was hearing. This same boy who lifted his spirits could not see what was right there in front of him? How could Quatre not see the way Heero watched him constantly, staying longer after his practice to wait for them and stealing little glances at them while they walked from their tutoring sessions? What about lunchtime in the lunchroom? Heero, who hardly talked at all, seemed to come alive in Quatre's presence. Duo knew he wasn't reading the football captain wrong. “Yeah right!” Duo knew he was right. “He's so into you!”

 

Quatre just blushed at him, looking very doubtful though he tried to smile again.

 

“Okay…” Duo thought, “so you have a problem and I have a problem.” A lone finger tapped against Duo's angular chin, while his chestnut eyebrows furrowed deep in his face. “We have to join forces.”

 

The silliest grin appeared on Quatre's face, not believing the subtle change in his friend. “Ooooh! That's so diabolical.” He linked his pinkie finger with Duo. “I say we have a game of truth or dare tonight.”

 

~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~ ***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~*

 

It was at that moment, a voice crackled from the outside intercom system by the main entrance and one of the maids, Crachia, went to answer. Heero and Wufei, with bags in hand, finally arrived with Wufei grumbling the whole way as he and Heero crossed through the foyer, down the hallway and into the great hall.

 

Miad, one of the older servants, alerted Quatre by intercom on the second line of the arrival of his other guests. Quarte giggled as he picked up the phone next to him to call the pizzeria for the pies. He could have told his cooks to do something special for the guys but he wanted this to be a real slumber party complete with sleepy bags and the works. Besides, there was nothing like pizza from Antonio's. That man was the pizza god and his pizzas were to die for! Just the thought of that thin crust cooked perfectly and the way the pie looked with the mounds of hot gooey cheese on top….

 

Mmm! Damn he wanted some right now! It was so perfect! It was just the way he liked it.

 

Dropping the phone back on the receiver, he turned, grabbing Duo's hand as he got up and starting running. “WHOO!! C'mon Duo! Let's go party! Party! Party!”

 

Tired of his bummed out mood, Duo's face beamed, and happily enjoying Quatre's hyper ness. This was what he needed. He had friends! He finally gave over to his inner child, his soul rejoicing as his trust blossomed within himself. To actually trust someone completely as an imaginary blanket lifted off him and his soul felt lighter. Grasping tightly to Quatre's hand, he giggled down the hallway with him, ecstatic over his new self.

 

Wufei was the first to notice the bouncing twosome approaching him and Heero. “Oh no! God made two of them!!” Chastising for a minute to throw the brat off the scent, his eyes flowed discretely over to Duo, admiring not only his pajamas but noticing there was a change in Duo's face. More so than when they were at the school when he first noticed Duo laugh. That heart-shaped face was flushed not from running as one at first glance would notice but this was different. That face was glowing, sparkling with happiness reborn. He had to jerk to a stop, trying not to incriminate himself but he couldn't help it. Duo was so cute when he looked like that.

 

Calming himself, Duo smiled at the Chinese youth when he noticed him. “Hello, Wufei-kun!” Duo exclaimed, laughing along with Quatre as the blonde slowly approached Wufei.

 

“Oh…hi…” Wufei stuttered, looking to the side while trying to hide his blush. “Uh…cute pjs.”

 

Duo smiled and simply replied, “Thanks” while folding his hands behind his back shyly.

 

Quatre pouted, pissed at Wufei. The dumb boy wasn't wearing the outfit he sent to his house. He picked it out especially for him. It was the cutest thing. “Mou, Wufei! Where's the teddy bear pjs I sent you?!”

 

“As if!” Wufei growled, sounding more like a dragon while looking at Quatre like he was stupid. It was bad enough he had to join this chaos but he wasn't going to dress up like an idiot--especially not in front of Duo. A man has pride. After endless searching through his closet, he had decided on an outfit that would accent his looks greatly but in a subtle way. The result was baggy jet-black silk pajama bottoms that would discreetly outline his muscular legs and a white no sleeve tee shirt to show off his perfect pecs and golden skin. “You're lucky you got me to bring Nataku!” It was at that moment, he unzipped his bag and brought out said plushie for everyone to see. The little dragon looked old but in very good condition. Wufei then tucked the little dragon under his arm, eyeing Duo discretely. That boy did strike a cute form in those baggy fox pajamas.

 

The kamagorou almost went soaring through the air if not from the death grip Duo had it in when plum jewels focused on Wufei's Nataku. “THAT IS SO CUTE!!” Duo didn't even realize he was nearly on top of Wufei. Ebony eyes widened in shock from his actions. Duo knew by the look of the toy that it had to be an heirloom. “Can I hold him?!”

 

Wufei couldn't stop panicking as he tried to calm his raging heart. His crush was so close to him and he didn't know what to do. Hesitant at first, he tried to think until he looked into those sparkling storm clouds. He felt himself drowning in Duo's eyes, again captivated by their beauty. Slowly, his muscular arms stretched out and held out his most treasured treasure out towards the longhaired boy.

 

Quatre had to laugh, knowing that was the hardest thing Wufei had ever done. The Chinese youth nearly killed him when he touched it during the multiple times he went to his house to study. “You're so attached to your plushie, Wufei.”

 

“Nana gave it to me….” Wufei mumbled under his breath. Too bad everyone heard what he said.

 

While Quatre giggled, Duo put the kama bunny under his left arm to further inspect the Nataku dragon. Its eyes were just as big as the Kamagorou but they were so dark as if looking into midnight blue. The material for the body seemed to be a dark green or what used to be dark green. It seemed years as well as multiple washings were the catalyst for the little dragon's lost of color. Years of play resulted to the lost of its true vibrancy and now appeared in its present state as a dull gray-green. Duo traced his fingers along the felt lips, poking at the twin fangs still sticking out of the closed mouth. “It's nice, Fei. Wow…and soft...”

 

“That's because I brush him with a soft brush everyday…erk…” Wufei slapped a hand over his mouth, unknowingly embarrassing himself again. He was so proud of himself. His grandmother, before she passed, always asked him about the cherished gift and would smile because he took such proper care of it. It was a special toy to his heart. He sighed. Duo must think him an idiot to be still holding on to a children toy but if the longhaired boy did think him a baka…he gave no indication of it.

 

Quatre, who had walked over to Heero to ask what he brought, turned right back around and straight towards Wufei. That last statement was too juicy to resist. With a little help from him, he made the teddy bear's paw point as Wufei as he exclaimed “Hentai…Hentai…Hentai..”

 

Wufei slumped in embarrassment. “Would you stop that?!?”

 

Ignoring him, as usual, Quatre started making the teddy bear crawl over Fei's body, with his help of course, molesting the embarrassed Chinese boy. “Aw Mr. Wuvs Wufei!”

 

Walking over, Heero stood next Duo, who was snuggling so cutely with his crew of a dragon and a bunny. The sight was too funny and Heero had to shake his head at the `warm and fuzzy' moment. Trying to decide what to wear was also a problem for Heero but not one he couldn't solve. He had to thank his mother for his current attire as he remembered her chuckling when he went out the door to pick up Wufei. His current clothing was a pair of one- piece baby blue pajamas, the kind with the big flap that buttons on the back. But these pjs were special because they were custom made by his mother who had distinctive wings stitched in on the back and the inscription “Momma's Angel.”

 

Apparently, his mother had gotten them for him last Christmas as a joke gift. His mother always called him her little angel, which was more appropriate than what Relena wanted to get him. Their family usually gave gifts like these: one joke present accompanying a real one to take the receiver's mind off guard and to remind them of their true riches. The truth of the matter was it was their father's sick way to keep his family humble. The joke/real gift seemed to work because every year laughter, love and understanding kept their little family together. The joke gifts got better and better and sometimes they were better than the actual ones.

 

Heero smiled thinking how there were too many families not as close as his. All his Dad had wanted was to keep his family `a family' and his simple theory kept them together even if Relena was married now and Trowa, who was hardly ever home, was commuting back and forth to college: everyone was still together for Sunday dinner and holidays. His mother's joke gift turned into a wonder; the wings complimented him and since it was the first time he actually slept at Quatre's house…he wanted to impress his secret heart with his comedy and fashion sense. It wasn't that he didn't want to come dressed up and spiffy even if he couldn't find anything…but being around Quatre as he looked at how his baby blue pajamas fitted him…looking the way he did everyday…

 

Heero shook his head out of the racy thoughts, watching Wufei succumb to Quatre's antics. His poor brother-in-law had falling over to the floor with a loud thump, his arms and legs waving franticly in the air as he cried for help against the insane blonde.

 

“AH!!! GETITOFFGETITOFF!!! HELP!! I'M BEING MOLESTED!!!!”

 

Quatre just continued to sit on Wufei's hips, tickling his stomach, under his arms and any exposed spot he could find! It was a shame. Duo's poor teddy bear sat, abandoned safely on the floor watching the zaniness in the room. “SAY IT!” bellowing in a loud voice, Quarte's hands finding secrets spots and causing Wufei's usually gloomy face to sparkle a golden bronze filled with laughter and tears.

 

“NEVER!!” Wufei yelled, tears flowing from his ebony orbs.

 

That wasn't the answer Quatre wanted to hear. The tickling storm began again and finally, after yelling up a storm, the grumpy Chinese brat finally surrendered to the giggling king!

 

“AAAHH!! ALRIGHT! ALRIGHT!” gasping his words, Wufei finally yelled, “PRINCESS! PRINCESS!”

 

Duo snickered into the plushies. Quatre was such a sick bastard…but he was enjoying every bit of it!!!

 

Evilly, Quatre looked down at his victim, one hand went to his mouth as he posed into a very Naga2 pose from the Slayers cartoon he loved, with one hand adjusted on his hip. “Don't call me that, you knave! Call me your QUUUEEEEEENNN!!!! OH! HO! HO HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”

 

That did it! Heero and Duo fell on each other, forced into laughter and tears, unable to stop as they fell to the floor. Quatre joined in their laughter, stopping with his tickling session on his victim to view his results. Poor Wufei! The boy looked a mess with his silky obsidian hair everywhere. Wufei stared up at Quatre as though he had lost his damn mind. The whole scene was comical and all Wufei could do was sigh, grateful Quatre didn't whip him in front of Duo. A strange purr, bowed next to his ear as Quatre simply replied, overhearing him. “That's later.”

 

Onyx eyes widened in fear! Wufei didn't realize he had said that out loud! Damn him and his outspokenness!

 

Well…Heero and Duo, still trying to get their giggles under control, were helping each other back up when the black band holding the end of Duo's braid together got snagged on Heero's Gundam model. Apparently, Heero didn't have a plushie to bring since he gave all his toys to good will when he got older. He didn't want to disappoint Quarte either so he brought the next best thing: his “Endless Waltz-Wing Gundam model”. It was a very expensive gift his sister Relena got him three Christmases ago and Shin helped him put it together. It was the closest thing to an heirloom to him. His sudden motion caused Duo to erk in pain. Not wanting to cause any more trouble, he tried to detangle the hook from the band without pulling any of Duo's hair with it. The rifle was caught tight in the rubber band and as Heero pulled again, the tattered band broke, unraveling masses and masses of satiny copper, chestnut, and gold all over the place, flowing over their pajamas and forcing them into a maze of hair.

 

“Oh!” Heero replied apologetically, struggling to get out, “Duo, I'm so sorry…!”

 

Quatre turned, blinking wondering what happened but was struck mute. His blue-green diamonds widened larger than they had ever been before.

 

Balancing on Heero's shoulder, Duo slowly rose, guiding his hair with him, pulling the chestnut and honey silk out of his face. Uncommonly long in length, the boy's hair covered over his whole body, flowing around his form like a well-knit blanket. Duo had to push back on it just to see.

 

Wufei had sat up by then, not really seeing because Quatre was still sitting on him. “I have a few with me...” But then Quarte moved slightly and the words evaporated in the air as Wufei's mouth dropped to the floor…hard!

 

Jumping up from his warm spot on the floor, Quatre walked over not believing what he was seeing. His eyes couldn't be playing tricks on him, could it? “No way, Wufei! That hair stays down!”

 

Duo just blinked, confused at his friend's expression of him. He casually brushed a long strand out of his eyes watching Quatre as he hesitantly reached out to touch a strand; still afraid this was only a dream.

 

Pale hands cupped around the autumn rain, grasping handful between his nimble digits. “Wow! It's so long! It looked way shorter all braided…” Quarte couldn't believe it. By Allah! The boy looked like a wary angel from one of his storybooks and the texture of his hair…How the hell did he get baby soft hair?!?! “So soft!” He couldn't help himself, nuzzling the hair to his face, smelling the peaches and cream conditioner. He stiffened the groan forming in his throat. “Who need a kamagorou with this stuff?!!”

 

Smirking at himself, Duo just watched Quatre reiterate his displeasure of his own tattered aureolin mess. Quatre proclaimed he was definitely growing it out. ”Duo, it's just so kinky!”

 

“Well…” Duo replied, shrugging his shoulders, “I just promised myself after my mom died, I would never cut it.”

 

Quatre cheered, still rubbing his face with Duo's hair. “And never ever do it! Or I'll haunt you!”

 

“Stop embarrassing me…” Duo chuckled, blushing because of the attention he was getting. “It's not that great.”

 

“What?” Quarte gawked at him. He looked like a chocobo from the final fantasy game series. How the hell could he not know he was gorgeous especially with his hair down? “I would kill for hair like this!!”

 

Heero was just as shocked at the change in Duo's appearance with his hair down but that would be just the start of his surprise. When he turned to his side, his eyes got even wider. Wufei's nose was bleeding and running like a facet. From the look on his face, Wufei did not giving a damn! Wufei was too busy staring at Duo like he was dinner! Someone could have thrown ice cold water on him and it still wouldn't cool him down. Heero slowly walked over to him. “Uh…Wufei? Are you okay?”

 

Wufei didn't even hear him at first, his focus centered on Duo. He continued watching the debate between Quatre and Duo, each boy complimenting the other's hair.

 

Heero tapped him again, jerking him out of his Duo induced trance. Finally awake, he acked in surprise at the blood running down his face. He wiped furiously at his nose, nodding to Heero when he handed him a tissue and telling him he was okay as he slowly rose to his feet. That didn't help his flushing face, though.

 

Heero didn't believe it. Actually, Wufei never got that riled up before.

 

“Ch.…” Quatre commented, his attention now focused on Wufei, “What's with you? Having naughty thoughts or something?”

 

Ebony eyes glared at the young Arabian, simply replying “NO!” He was not in the mood, suddenly afraid to look over at Duo.

 

Blushing, Duo didn't comment, knowing Wufei must have been shocked by his hair. This wasn't the first time someone was stuck dumb when they saw his hair out and he was always got mistaken for a girl. He smirked internally, amused to finally rattled his secret heart's nerves.

 

“Well…whatever, Wu…” Quatre winked at him before he made his next statement, turning his attention to Heero. “You're a big hentai anyway. Ne…Heero, is Trowa here yet?”

 

Heero frowned, knowing Quatre would be a little disappointed. “He apologized as we walked out the house, Quat. He couldn't come. Zechs came by before I left. The coach asked Zechs to pick him up because he was needed him as an anchor at the 100-meter relay today. Trowa had totally forgotten.”

 

Quatre stared at him kinda odd. “Oh.” His face suddenly lost his genkiness, his eyes reflecting his mood and turning darker…bitter turquoise. “I see. A meet.”

 

“What's wrong?” Heero questioned, watching the emotions changed over the blonde boy's face.

 

The words wanted to come out…they really did but Quarte didn't want to answer or rather he wouldn't answer. He had a funny feeling his next words would not be what Heero wanted to hear. So to keep the peace, he changed the subject much to Heero's dismay, smiling like nothing happened. “I was ordering the pizza when you guys came.” Turning to Duo to keep his emotions under control, he questioned him about the type of pizza he liked. “I totally forgot to ask which one was your favorite, Duo. You never told while I made the call.”

 

Shrugging, Duo simply replied. “Cheese, Quatre-kun.”

 

Beryl hues glowed with happiness, unable to contain his glee. “ME TOO!!”

 

“We're too much like!” Duo grinned, his head nodding in agreement.

 

“No you're not!” Wufei whispered to himself. Too bad Duo heard him.

 

“We're not?” The lissome teenager inquired, fanning his hair over his shoulder, his eyes questioning the shocked Chinese youth.

 

Wufei could only blink at him, swallowing once and slowly shaking his head as he kept eye contact with Duo. “No.”

 

Heat radiated from those obsidian eyes, eyes as dark as the night itself. Duo shivered, trying not to drown into midnight, looking down at the stuffed dragon still in his hands, feeling the need to change the subject also. “You said your Nana made this? How old were you?”

 

Wufei blushed. He never would have expected a question like that. It was embarrassing enough he brought the toy, now he was being asked…very personal questions. But as he looked into those plum pools, Duo could have asked him for his life and he would have given it to him. “It was my first baby toy…” His gaze deepened, watching Duo's eyes change into different colors before his eyes. The violet orbs morphed growing dewy by the seconds, resembling light cream in a deep wine. The blush on his face grew, flushing darkly against his skin as he watched Duo cuddling his most beloved toy, rubbing the dragon against his cheek, giggling from the tickles of fur.

 

He swallowed…hard. He wished he were the plushie.

 

Smirking, Quatre draped his slim arm around Duo's shoulder, protectively. “Well guys. I want to give Duo a tour of the house first. Then we can play some games by the poolside. I told the delivery guys to deliver the pizzas in an hour.”

 

Heero nodded, already knowing the location of every room of the house since his father was the contractor. Wufei followed dumbly along, just admiring the various expressions forming on Duo's face. It was like looking at a child in a candy store.

 

~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~ ***~~***~~***~~***~~***~~*

 

The inside of the Winner Mansion was unbelievable. It had an east and west wing--twelve rooms on each side of the wings, with three levels of rooms between them. The lower level, created mainly for emergency, had secrets only known to the family of Winner. The master garage was there along with spacing for the various vehicles of transportation, and recreation.

 

Turning a corner far to the back, the boys took an elevator to the third floor, the top level of the mansion. As they passed each room, Quatre named them in sequence. Apparently, his mother had created a theme with each of the room, all except for his and his brother's. Within each room, there was a balcony with a spacious view of either the Japanese koi garden or the beautiful waterfall etched out of the rocks on the east side. A king sized bed adorned the center of the room and satin canopies embroidered with the Winner insignia within its fabric hung from the ceiling along with the wall to wall carpeted floors bearing the same symbol. Gas fireplaces were also in the rooms, grafted into the brick wall and only used during the brisk winters.

 

Quatre smiled as he opened two large doors leading to one of the numerous bathrooms adjacent from the bedrooms. Inside, it looked like an ordinary bathroom except for the massive space and the wall-to-wall carpeting. A large sink was to the left, complete with golden fixtures, a water pick to clean in between teeth and a large mirror. On the left and in the corner, sat a very large claw foot whirlpool bath complete with an assortment of aromatherapy bath beads, bubble bath and soaps ranging from various scents of distilled vanilla to the light scent of sweet stock. Hooks for towels hung on the wall and the towels themselves were huge. Every thing seemed to be fashioned to satisfy the occupant-with added refreshment in the form of a little refrigerator complete with apple cider and snacks.

 

Each room had a style of its own, splendor befitting the great Arabian kings of Quatre's ancestors.

 

Duo just gawked like an idiot at the luster of the house while Quarte grinned, enjoying each smile displayed by his chestnut haired friend. That smile was worth all the money in the world and Quarte would have gladly giving up everything just for a tiny sparkle from those amethyst dreams. Happily pulling Duo along, Quatre dragged the group back to main floor and out towards the back of the house where the outdoor pool, the sauna and a Jacuzzi was located.

 

“Okay…now to the waterfall and the Japanese gardens…”

 

Duo stopped him. “I think we need to stop. My brain is over loading.”

 

Chuckling, Quatre patted Duo on the hand. “Okay…we can chill awhile if you want. I keep forgetting how big my house is. Not like I can show anyone because no one is here. Anyway…we could go in the pool kitchen which is right through those side doors.” pointing in the direction, “to get something to drink or…we could start up a game?”

 

“What type?” questioned Duo, taking a seat in the recliner while putting his feet up and crossing over them each other enjoying the gentle breeze.

 

“No more stupid strip twister…” Wufei grumbled, glaring at Quatre.

 

Quatre just laughed at him. “Naah…just Truth or Dare.”

 

“That seems safe enough.” Wufei sat down on one of the couches aligning the pool. The moon had come out while they were on the tour. He looked up, and there she was smiling down on them. Her pale face grinned, as her light reflected off the water, causing the ripples of liquid to appear like blue patterns etched across an easel. The artist herself was displayed, dancing over the concrete of the pool. The scene was so romantic, something out of a novel…. an perfect night to get closer to…

 

Every little thing I do, you're on my mind

The way I feel lately, it's driving me crazy

Every little thing I do, you're on my mind

I can't get over you, I think about you all the time.

 

Sable eyes fell on Duo again. The boy was sitting there on that tawny lawn chair so innocently; Nataku on one arm while Quatre's silly rabbit lounged on his belly comfortable. Damn the boy was gorgeous and he didn't even know it.

 

Can't you see why you do to me

I think about you all the time

My mind is hazy and I'm mixed up, feeling crazy

Over you

Let's not waste any time

 

“Duo?” Quatre questioned, looking over at the boy. He didn't want Duo to feel uncomfortable with the game, knowing some of the questions like any game of `Truth and Dare' would be odd. “You don't have to play if you don't want to…”

 

“It's okay, Quat-kun.” Duo had to reassure Quatre. He didn't mind playing and there were always ways around the stunts…especially if one got him closer to Wufei.

 

Quatre smiled, proud of Duo's trust and nodded in understanding. Duo had to do this for himself. He then turned to Heero who was looking at him strangely.

 

Heero blushed, not liking where any of this was going.

 

“I'll go first.” Quatre pointed to Wufei and yelled. “Truth or Dare!”

 

Wufei snorted, not about to fall into Quatre's trap. “Truth.”

 

Quatre looked at Duo, who suddenly became nervous as hell plucking at the Kama bunny's ears and then back at Wufei. “What is the grossest thing you've ever eaten? You know…like Dog food or something?”

 

Wufei remained speechless though the wanted to punch Quatre in the face. He thought a moment, Duo giggling in the background, laughing at something Quatre said to him, as he blurted out his answer. “Easy…your cooking.”

 

Heero and Duo laughed while Quatre felt insulted. Pouting and folding his arms over his chest he replied, “I'm not that bad.”

 

Ah! To take down that maniac down a peg. Smiling, Wufei was ready for his turn. “My turn.” His gaze fell on his suddenly agitated brother-in-law. “Heero…Truth or Dare!”

 

Thoughts were racing through his mind before Heero responded. Either answer put him in a catch 22 and he didn't like that gleam in Fei's dark eyes—the moon had nothing to do with this one. “Hmmnn…Dare.”

 

Wufei tapped a lone finger against his chin while he thought of Heero's punish me…er task. “I dare you …to…” He wasn't going to do it to them but then Quatre with that smug look on his demonic face, began humming the Jeopardy song while Heero kept glaring at him. That was the last straw! Glaring back at the two, his decision flowed from his mouth! “I dare you to kiss Quatre!”

 

Every thing in the room, living or non, stood still. Even time, endless and boundless, was a helpless victim watching inside of the small space. Heero, struck dumb by Wufei's exclamation, couldn't' help but look at the other participant, who sat innocently with his mouth open and clutching tightly to Duo's helpless teddy bear. The poor blonde, usually the char mastic of the four, was speechless; his eyes grew wide as saucers. “E-Eh?!?”

 

Crossing his arms over his chest, Wufei continued. “You two asked for it…for being such jerks!!”

 

Quatre panicked, begging Wufei for his forgiveness but Heero did something Quatre would have never expected. His angel's face was staring him terrified. Heero's own face reddened from the dare, his Prussian eyes lowered to his lap contemplating his next move. Then he looked back up and simple replied, “Okay.”

 

Quatre shut his mouth instantly, his eyes growing bigger as he turned to Duo first and then back at Heero. The football player's focus was still on him wondering what he was going to do next. The answer was solved as Heero slowly stood up from his Indian stance by the pool and walked over to be by Quatre, who was sitting on the side of Duo's lounge chair.

 

Wufei stood up then, staring at the suddenly quiet room, his words aimed at Duo. “We'll give you privacy” smirking to the two and then speaking to Duo over his shoulder as he proceeded to the kitchen. “C'mon Duo. Let's go get some ice cream to give them so privacy. “

 

Duo didn't' want to move but Quatre shyly lifted up those innocent eyes of his towards him, and let them drop again. Duo's heart was tugging against him to move but he sensed Quatre was telling him it was okay. Watching them sitting there, yet Heero had made the first move something he knew Quatre wasn't prepared for. Maybe it was time for Quatre to feel that Heero did care and finally see what he knew what was there all along. It took a lot of guts for Heero to approach; he could have ranted and raved like a maniac but he didn't. Sighing in resignation, he smiled at Quatre and then glared at Heero not to hurt his friend as he turned to follow Wufei into the kitchen.