Gundam Wing Fan Fiction ❯ Beautiful Dawn ❯ Chapter 28 ( Chapter 28 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: Michalyn 
Duo meets a certain someone. --And Zechs makes some progress??
Anime/Manga: Gundam Wing Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Hentai / Drama / Romance | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 01.11.2003 | Pages: 4 | Words: 4.2K | Visits: 914 | Status: Work In Progress
Duo meets a certain someone. --And Zechs makes some progress??
Anime/Manga: Gundam Wing Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Hentai / Drama / Romance | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 01.11.2003 | Pages: 4 | Words: 4.2K | Visits: 914 | Status: Work In Progress
After another long wait, here it is #^_^#. Hope you enjoy.
Standard disclaimers apply: I don't own Gundam Wing or its bishounen, nor am I making any monetary profit from this fic whatsoever.
Author: Michalyn (darling_162002@yahoo.com)
Pairings: 6x1, 13+5 ( possible 13x5 later), 3+4
General Warnings: AU ( the pilots are 18, Zechs and Treize are 23) yaoi, angst, sap, lemon
Archive: http://angelfire.com/gundam/asanctuary, http://raygunworks.net, http://www.gundam-wing-universe.net/
Rating: NC 17
Warnings for this chapter: angst: specifically Duo angst. * ducks from the rotten fruits being pelted by angry Duo-lovers* Gomen!!
Feedback: craved ^_^
[….]: Indicates memory
Heero awoke feeling surprisingly refreshed. He had slept better last night than he had in a long time and the Asian was at a loss to figure out why. Considering how tired he had been, the brunette supposed it was not that unexpected. Yet there were many more days in the aftermath of J's death that he had been worn to the bone and still sleep had eluded him. Compounding his mystification was the dim awareness of a presence at his side while he slept. Half dream, half memory, it was not sinister, like he was accustomed to, but heartbreakingly gentle. The dark beauty shook his head slowly as he rolled over to sit at the edge of the bed. Sleepily, he reached for his rumpled robe. Whatever it was, he was grateful. It was actually good to feel somewhat alive again.
After a quick shower Heero wandered downstairs in the hopes of finding something to nibble on. It was early yet and he wanted to grab something light before Trowa awoke and tried to feed him some extravagant breakfast. The brunette rubbed his stomach absently as he headed towards the kitchen. For some reason his taller friend seemed hell bent on stuffing him with as much food as he could find.
He entered the kitchen and was surprised to find a stranger sitting at the table. Observing the slight form and long hair, Heero initially thought it a woman. But as he circled the table to the refrigerator, he discovered instead a slim, young man with an incredibly long braid. The chestnut weight was nestled between surprisingly broad shoulder blades, curving silkily downwards to disappear behind the back of the newcomer's chair and reemerging near his black clad bottom. Heero judged him to be about his age and height. Pale of complexion and delicate of feature, the beauty's thickly lashed eyelids shielded the orbs beneath as he stared morosely into his coffee.
The stranger didn't look up as Heero puttered about the room, quietly making his own cup of coffee and Zechs' ex-lover was glad. More often than not he preferred silence to conversation. "Finally here seemed to be someone of his own mind," he thought contentedly.
It was only when the brunette settled across from his new companion that the other man looked up and pierced him with an expression that managed to be both startled and puzzled at the same time.
Purple, Heero thought amazedly. The man's eyes were purple. The brunette frowned: For some reason that pixie-shaped face seemed familiar. Yet he was sure they had never met. Still… he couldn't shake the feeling that he had seen the other man somewhere before.
While Heero puzzled over the mystery Duo spoke.
"Hey man." He smiled. "Scared me there for a moment," he said, as he rubbed the back of his neck wearily. "-Wandered off ya know?"
Heero nodded as Duo rested his mug on the table and leaned back in his chair. The braided man grinned as he regarded the broody brunette. He had to admit the guy was good looking with all that golden skin, the wild, dark hair and those blue eyes. Duo's gaze dropped to the other man's lips. Not to mention the most sensuous mouth he had ever seen! He traversed the smooth planes of the exotic face again… Not a bad sight to greet first thing in the morning at all, Duo thought smugly. "Where had he come from?" the brunette wondered. Duo was pretty sure that he wasn't part of the hired help. So the question was: who was he?
He extended a slender palm. " I don't believe we've met," the longhaired man purred silkily. "I'm Duo."
The brunette grunted as he enveloped Duo's palm in his own. " Heero," he said finally.
Duo froze in the act of withdrawing his hand. Heero… A memory filled his vision. Of Zechs caressing him by hazy lamplight, touching him with a love and tenderness that made his heart ache. Those long fingers tangling in his hair, the azure eyes locking heatedly with his… And then…
["Heero."]
Duo's hand dropped to the table with a hollow sound. He ignored Heero's confused expression as he valiantly suppressed the instinctive anger and resentment he felt towards the other man. He tried to remind himself that Heero too had suffered. Was still suffering, if he correctly remembered Zechs' words about the brunette's father's death. It was not easy. For on the heels of those emotions came a gnawing sense of betrayal. That Quatre and Trowa had invited him here, knowing that his rival would be as well. Did they all take him for a fool? Duo wondered angrily. Did they really know him so little as to believe that he could watch Zechs constantly lusting after his ex-lover and not be affected by it? His eyes narrowed. Perhaps Zechs had also known… No, he remembered all too clearly Zechs' disappointment at finding him his only companion. The thought was some consolation to him- however small.
Duo swallowed the anger building within him, forcing himself to regard Heero with equanimity. "It's a pleasure," he finally said hoarsely. Instinctively his lips curled in a derisive smirk.
Heero's expression darkened and his blue eyes became cold. "Likewise."
The abrupt change in the stranger's demeanor irked him inexplicably. Normally he ignored these kinds of things. He was accustomed to others receiving him poorly but there was something about this introduction that he couldn't put his finger on. -A thinly veiled animosity that had little to do with any natural aversion to him.
The silence stretched taut between them. Inwardly, Duo chuckled darkly at the ironies of fate. He * could * see why Zechs had fallen in love with Heero. The man * was * beautiful and his deep eyes sparked with unmistakable intelligence. But more than that was the brunette's magnetism: the wildness and the glimpses of vulnerability that peeked through those blue, blue eyes if you looked carefully. Or when he turned his head just * so * to reveal a surprisingly sensuous profile. Duo wanted to hate him and yet he too * wanted * to know what was beneath. Impossibly, the knowledge made him angrier. He wanted Heero to be inferior in some way… Some way that would justify an attempt to come between him and Zechs.
Just as he was about to bait Heero out of his controlled silence, Treize and Wufei wandered in, breaking the growing tension. When they spotted the two, seated men, both paused uncertainly. Wufei was the first to venture comment.
"Good Morning, Duo… Heero, I didn't realize you were would be here," he said neutrally. He looked from his best friend to the stoic youth.
"Hn." Heero rose and placed his mug in the sink before turning around. " I came in last night. Late."
Treize, who finally seemed to have regained his voice nodded, a pleasant smile breaking across his lips. "Ah. Then I'm glad you could join us. Have you met Duo?" The aristocrat indicated the braided youth. Duo's an old friend of ours. He's visiting from out of town," Treize explained.
Heero nodded. "I have." The brunette shrugged past the couple. "If you'll excuse me…"
Wufei watched as his messy-haired friend disappeared in the direction of the gardens. He turned to Duo, who was still sitting silently at the table. "Maxwell, what did we just walk in on?"
Duo laughed bitterly. "Why I just met the love of Zechs' life," he said harshly. "Didn't you see?"
Treize raised a honeyed eyebrow. He turned to Wufei with a concerned expression. "Dragon, if you want me to, I can leave you two to--"
"No," Duo interrupted. He rubbed wearily at his eyes. " I'm sorry guys," he said genuinely. "I' was being a prick." The brunette sighed. " It's just that my day seems to be off to an awful start…." Duo made an exasperated sound as Treize hesitated near the door. "Treize, don't leave. It's ok, - * really *."
Wufei came to sit in Heero's abandoned chair. He pierced the other man with a serious look. " Are you certain, Duo?" he asked solemnly.
"Sheesh!" Duo exploded. "Wu, I'm fine." He nodded towards the older man. "Treize, sit down and have some breakfast."
Seeing that his young friend was insistent. Treize shrugged and took a seat near his lover. Instinctively his hand slipped beneath the shielding tablecloth and he began to massage the cloth-covered knee closest to him. Wufei shot him a glare, but Treize blithely ignored it, blinking innocently at the younger man. Instead he reached across the table for one of the golden peaches in the bowl at the center. Contentedly, he bit into the plump flesh, and listened as the other men chatted idly.
While Duo regaled Wufei with anecdotes from his life in New York, Treize contemplated the earlier incident. Did Zechs know that Heero had arrived? "And what would it mean to him to have both Heero and Duo here?" the ginger-haired man wondered. He shook his head in disbelief. This week was turning out to be more interesting than he had imagined.
Speaking of interesting things… last night had certainly proved enjoyable, Treize mused lustily. Lovingly, he watched as Wufei listened to Duo. He couldn't wait to make good use of the many hours ahead of them today, the older man thought eagerly. The aristocrat stood and poured himself and Wufei some coffee. Remembering how Wufei liked it, he added two sugars and a generous amount of cream to his lover's cup. Bringing it to the table he placed it before his dragon, kissing the dark-haired beauty softly on his forehead before taking his own seat.
Duo raised an eyebrow at the movement and erupted in teasing laughter. "Awww," he cooed, "that was so cute."
When Wufei frowned, Treize chuckled. "Sorry Love." He nodded towards Duo. "Duo, you didn't see that right?"
Duo crossed his palm over his chest and grinned. "Scouts honor," he said solemnly. "There's no way I just saw Treize kiss his Wu-bear," he teased.
Wufei just rolled his eyes and sipped primly from his coffee. He glanced from one man to the other. " I refuse to be baited by your juvenile antics," he announced haughtily.
"Juvenile?" Treize repeated with mock indignation and Duo nodded. "Yeah!" he piped in. "We're wounded man!"
Wufei shook his head. "Anyway," he responded airily. "Duo what are your plans for today?"
~~~
Zechs awoke slowly, stretching his long limbs and then settling back against the pillows. His mind was still fuzzy, his body languid with sleep. Reluctant to abandon the covers, he lingered for a moment, closing his eyes against the soft, morning light. Unbidden, images of last night rushed to his memory. A slumbering Heero burned behind his eyelids: pale and slender amidst rumpled sheets.
Immediately the blonde sat up. Throwing back the covers, Zechs ambled over to the closet. He stepped inside then paused uncertainly at the hidden door. Dare he open it? The blonde shook his head. Too risky. "What if Heero was there - and awake?" the aristocrat reasoned. How would he explain his presence? Heero would be enraged. And far worse would be the destruction of the only avenue that allowed him to be close even a little close to his heart. Especially since he didn't doubt that if the younger man discovered the closet, he would promptly request another room, far, far away from his.
Zechs bent and peered through the keyhole, but the poor light and his low vantage point made it impossible to see if Heero was still inside. Sighing, he slid to the floor, his back resting against the door. The Adonis considered the situation. He imagined himself stealing into Heero's room while the brunette was awake and making love to him so tenderly and thoroughly, that the walls around the beauty's heart would fall away, leaving him loving and trusting in his arms.
If only… Zechs laughed bitterly. He'd messed up too badly to entertain those kinds of ideas. Turning, he peeked through the hole once more.
How could he make Heero his?
~~~
As the three men conversed easily, Duo couldn't help the air despondence that fell over him. Treize and Wufei did nothing overt, but even a fool wouldn't miss the tender glances they stole when each thought his lover wasn't looking.
Normally, the evidence of Wufei's "surrender" would be a source of delight to the singer, but at the moment it could only rouse a painful yearning in him. Eventually, Duo rose, excusing himself from his friend's company to find his own quiet spot.
As Duo headed towards the living room, he was just in time to see Treize pull Wufei onto his lap. The brunette lingered behind the safety of the doorframe and watched as they whispered heatedly to each other, Treize's hands sliding beneath the hem of the Chinese's tee shirt, rubbing caressingly and then moving lower.
A wistful smile touched Duo's lips as he moved away, hands shoved deeply into his pockets.
Ah, wasn't love grand?
~~~
Heero wandered about one of the manor's gardens, his mind inexplicably still on this morning's encounter. The blue-eyed youth had kept mostly to himself for the day and so had found out little else about the newcomer. Heero didn't know why it mattered to him, only that it did. He was hoping to get some answers to where he had seen the other man before - and why Duo seemed to resent him. And resent him Duo did, that much Heero brunette was certain of. Now he just had to find out why…
"Hn."
Abandoning his fruitless thoughts, Heero settled on a nearby garden bench and contented himself with admiring the lush beauty. Trees of every shape, size and color to grew around him in seeming abandonment. Fragrant rosebush spotted the lawn before him and in unexpected niches sun-bright lemon peeked from behind pungent, earth-dark leaves. Ripe, ruby-flushed pomegranate drooped sleepily from their straining stalks and exotic cattelya orchids grew near his elbow in glorious, riotous color, their velvet petals open eagerly to the sunlight. To the solemn brunette, the large trees and extravagant blooms created a tranquil, yet somehow sensuous atmosphere and Heero allowed himself a smile. This was truly peaceful.
"It * is * beautiful isn't it?" a deep voice interrupted.
Subtly, Heero tensed as Zechs approached and came to stand next to him. He didn't know why he was surprised: He should have known that Zechs would be here. If not because the blonde was one of Trowa's and Quatre's closest friends - but because his luck would never permit him to go a moment - much less an entire week- without torment. Silently, Heero braced himself.
Zechs sat next to the brunette. After the initial shock of last night's discovery had faded, the blonde had vowed to continue with his plan to woo Heero. In fact as the day wore on, he became more convinced of the situation's advantages. To have Heero so close…
Zechs had resolved to act immediately.
Which explained what he was doing here, risking Heero's wrath - and his own heart - by intruding on what was obviously a private moment. Yet the aristocrat was determined to get his Love back and this was the perfect opportunity to start.
"This is one of my favorite places," Zechs ventured. "I love the peacefulness."
Heero did not look up. "Yes," the brunette said evenly. "Which you are disturbing right now."
Zechs was so close. From the corner of his eye Heero could see the pale strands of the blonde's hair lifting in the breeze. He could feel Zechs' body heat. Smell his skin…
Heero's heart was hammering in his chest. He refused to run. But he couldn't look into Zechs' eyes. -Not when he couldn't trust himself not to surrender to those familiar, * deceptive* charms. Heero squared his shoulders. Never again, he vowed.
Unaware of his ex-lover's turmoil, Zechs saw only the stubborn movement. He sighed. "Must it always be like this?" he asked softly. Deliberately he turned to face the brunette. "Is it so wrong for me to want to enjoy this with you?"
Between them, Heero's hand rested on the bench, fingers curled defensively inward. Tentatively, Milliardo covered it with his larger palm. The tawny lashes lowered. "All I'm asking for is a moment Heero. Just to enjoy your company."
Heero shot him a wary, sidelong glance. The hand beneath Zechs' trembled slightly. "Hn."
Milliardo smiled, watching as his beauty turned to stare once more at the flowers in front of him. But Heero did not remove his hand. And Zechs strove to prevent the trembling of his own limbs at the tiny victory. Tenderly, he stared at the youth next to him, eyes traveling from the unruly locks caressing the smooth forehead; to the gentle swell of the brunette's lower lip. Oh, how he longed to hold that sweet body close again. But not yet, not yet. He had to take things slowly, the large blonde reminded himself.
Heero's cheek was flushed with color - from the balmy, afternoon temperature Zechs knew. But he hoped it meant that Heero also felt the pleasurable tingle that raced through his skin at having that small, warm palm pressed so lovingly against his own. It took all of his willpower to release the slender beauty. "Walk with me?" Zechs asked quietly.
Heero paused. He nodded faintly.
"Alright."
~~~
Quatre knocked softly. "Duo?"
There was no answer from within, but the blonde entered the room anyway. He wasn't surprised to find Duo lying across his bed, one pale arm thrown over his eyes. Quietly, Quatre approached. Gently, he shook the supine form. "Duo?" Worriedly, the petite Arabian bit his lip. "Duo are you asleep - or just ignoring me?"
"Just ignoring you." Abruptly Duo rolled over to face the man at his side. "What do you want?" he demanded curtly.
Quatre flinched. Gingerly he sat on the mattress. " I…Wufei told me you met Heero this morning," he replied softy. "And I…" He trailed off, gaze falling to his lap.
Duo sat up. "And you what?" he asked harshly. "You wanted to see how well I was handling the humiliation?" The brunette laughed shortly. " You know, it would have been nice for someone to say to me: "Duo, you know that guy Zechs chose over you? The one he pines for everyday regardless of whether you're there or not? Well he's here!" The violet gaze hardened. "I thought you were my friend Q'" Duo said bitterly. "I guess I was wrong." The chestnut-haired youth shook his head angrily. "Story of my life."
Quatre shook his head. "You're wrong Duo." He stared into pained violet eyes. " I *am * your friend." The petite youth took a deep breath. " But I'm also Heero's." The blonde made a chopping gesture with his hand when Duo tried to interrupt him. " I * do * owe you an apology for not preparing you for Heero's arrival," he admitted. "And I'm sorry. But even I was not certain that he would come." Quatre lowered his head. " And I can't pretend that I would do things any differently, given the chance. " he confessed softly.
Duo raised a single brow. "Then what's the point of apologizing?" His mouth turned down venomously. " * Please*, don't say anything you don't mean for * my * sake, Quatre."
"No! You deserve an apology because you're my friend and I never wanted to be the one to hurt you," Quatre blurted feelingly. "But Heero is a good man. Like you--" Quatre whispered. "And you have no idea what he's been through. And-and--" the blonde stammered. " I feel responsible. I should never have--" Firmly, the pale man squelched the thought. Aquamarine eyes bore pleadingly into Duo's. " They love each other Duo. And he * needs * this relationship with Zechs."
"Sure! And cheery ol' Duo can survive on grins and cheap jokes!" Duo hissed. "Why should he want love?" the brunette spat sarcastically.
"That's not--" Quatre protested.
The singer cut him off. " Not what?" he goaded. "Not fair?" His fist clenched. How dare *you *! You with your picture perfect relationship with Trowa, mess with mine? Talk to me about fair when you know what it feels like to have the man you love choose someone else."
Quatre's head snapped up. His voice trembled with the effort for control.
" Duo," he said carefully. 'I understand that you're angry and hurt and I accept responsibility for that." The Arabian gazed at his friend evenly. " But leave Trowa out of this," he ground out. " It's been four years! You had your chance with Zechs and * you *left him. * You * destroyed your relationship not me!" the blonde said heatedly. " I respect that you had your reasons for leaving and I even understand them but--"
Quatre took a calming breath. " You know what it's like to be loved Duo," he murmured. " Heero doesn't." He clasped the other man's hand desperately. " * Give * him the chance D. * Please*. If it's meant to be, nothing - and no one - can come between you and Zechs. But if it's not, you have to let him go…"
The blonde crawled across the bed and folded Duo's tense form in his arms and felt the fine tremors shivering through the slender frame. Tenderly Quatre stroked the silken head. " I'm sorry, he whispered genuinely, tears clouding his own vision. " I'm so, so sorry."
~~~
"Here, try this one." Zechs tore the spiked flesh of the soursop* open, exposing the soft, milky flesh. He'd been delighted to find the exotic fruit growing under carefully controlled conditions in one of Quatre's greenhouses - and even more pleased to be able to introduce it to Heero.
Heero eyed the morsel hesitantly and Zechs laughed. " Come on, it won't bite." His eyes locked with Heero's, then trailed downwards to his softly parted lips. "I promise." he said huskily.
Heero snorted and moved to taste the offering. The dark head bent closer and Zechs' eyes closed, the sight rendering him suddenly breathless. His palm trembled, dipping slightly in his agitation.
Heero ducked forward, making a displeased sound as the mouthful threatened to slip from his lips. Immediately Zechs' eyes snapped open. Hastily he tried to capture it as well, apologizing profusely while he did so. They ended up with his palm tenderly cupping Heero's chin, the long fingers of his other hand brushing the sensitive seam of the brunette's mouth.
" Here, I--" Zechs stilled. Heero's eyes widened, faint color touching his cheeks as he hurriedly captured the tangy fruit and tried to lean away. The entire situation reminded him much too vividly of another evening he and Zechs had shared together. In withdrawing, the wet pink of the brunette's tongue touched Zechs' fingertips and the older man suppressed a delicious shudder.
"So--" The blonde cleared his throat. "What do you think?"
"Ah, good." Quickly, Heero rose from his seat on the lawn. Carefully avoiding the other man's gaze he wiped the small bits of grass off his jeans. " I better go in," he announced absently.
Zechs nodded, standing as well. "Sure," he said softly, disappointed at Heero's decision, but pleased at the day's events. He couldn't help but feel that he'd made some progress today. " Heero?" Zechs called after the brunette's retreating form.
The slender Asian paused, looking over his shoulder. "Yes?"
The blonde smiled. " Thanks."
Heero nodded then disappeared into the darkness.
~~~
Heero turned out the lights and climbed into bed. His mind was awhirl with thoughts, all of them centered on a certain blonde. He didn't quite understand what had happened this afternoon. Zechs had been…different. It had actually been pleasant to spend some time with him. It almost made him wish… The brunette squelched the thought, firmly reminding himself that he couldn't let anything else develop between them. It was over. Zechs' words from that day in the cafeteria echoed in his head. Was this afternoon part of some plan to win him back? What if it had all been a ploy?
Sighing, Heero rolled over and snuggled into the pillow. He'd try to make sense of it all in the morning.
~~~
Silently, Zechs slipped into Heero's bedroom. This time his love was lying on his side, knees pulled close to his body and covers pulled up to his chin. Carefully, the blonde moved to gently kiss the cheek peeking above the comforter. And as he turned to leave he allowed himself one last look at the sleeping form. Remembering the afternoon they'd spent together he smiled.
Tomorrow was another day.
* Though i live in the US now, I grew up on a Caribbean island, so these were very common. It's one of my favorite fruits and absolutely delicious with milk. I don't know how to describe it other than it's a large, spiky green fruit with milky, slightly tangy inner flesh. Here's a link I found about the fruit if anyone's interested: http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/soursop.html
< br> Thanks for reading!!
Standard disclaimers apply: I don't own Gundam Wing or its bishounen, nor am I making any monetary profit from this fic whatsoever.
Author: Michalyn (darling_162002@yahoo.com)
Pairings: 6x1, 13+5 ( possible 13x5 later), 3+4
General Warnings: AU ( the pilots are 18, Zechs and Treize are 23) yaoi, angst, sap, lemon
Archive: http://angelfire.com/gundam/asanctuary, http://raygunworks.net, http://www.gundam-wing-universe.net/
Rating: NC 17
Warnings for this chapter: angst: specifically Duo angst. * ducks from the rotten fruits being pelted by angry Duo-lovers* Gomen!!
Feedback: craved ^_^
[….]: Indicates memory
Heero awoke feeling surprisingly refreshed. He had slept better last night than he had in a long time and the Asian was at a loss to figure out why. Considering how tired he had been, the brunette supposed it was not that unexpected. Yet there were many more days in the aftermath of J's death that he had been worn to the bone and still sleep had eluded him. Compounding his mystification was the dim awareness of a presence at his side while he slept. Half dream, half memory, it was not sinister, like he was accustomed to, but heartbreakingly gentle. The dark beauty shook his head slowly as he rolled over to sit at the edge of the bed. Sleepily, he reached for his rumpled robe. Whatever it was, he was grateful. It was actually good to feel somewhat alive again.
After a quick shower Heero wandered downstairs in the hopes of finding something to nibble on. It was early yet and he wanted to grab something light before Trowa awoke and tried to feed him some extravagant breakfast. The brunette rubbed his stomach absently as he headed towards the kitchen. For some reason his taller friend seemed hell bent on stuffing him with as much food as he could find.
He entered the kitchen and was surprised to find a stranger sitting at the table. Observing the slight form and long hair, Heero initially thought it a woman. But as he circled the table to the refrigerator, he discovered instead a slim, young man with an incredibly long braid. The chestnut weight was nestled between surprisingly broad shoulder blades, curving silkily downwards to disappear behind the back of the newcomer's chair and reemerging near his black clad bottom. Heero judged him to be about his age and height. Pale of complexion and delicate of feature, the beauty's thickly lashed eyelids shielded the orbs beneath as he stared morosely into his coffee.
The stranger didn't look up as Heero puttered about the room, quietly making his own cup of coffee and Zechs' ex-lover was glad. More often than not he preferred silence to conversation. "Finally here seemed to be someone of his own mind," he thought contentedly.
It was only when the brunette settled across from his new companion that the other man looked up and pierced him with an expression that managed to be both startled and puzzled at the same time.
Purple, Heero thought amazedly. The man's eyes were purple. The brunette frowned: For some reason that pixie-shaped face seemed familiar. Yet he was sure they had never met. Still… he couldn't shake the feeling that he had seen the other man somewhere before.
While Heero puzzled over the mystery Duo spoke.
"Hey man." He smiled. "Scared me there for a moment," he said, as he rubbed the back of his neck wearily. "-Wandered off ya know?"
Heero nodded as Duo rested his mug on the table and leaned back in his chair. The braided man grinned as he regarded the broody brunette. He had to admit the guy was good looking with all that golden skin, the wild, dark hair and those blue eyes. Duo's gaze dropped to the other man's lips. Not to mention the most sensuous mouth he had ever seen! He traversed the smooth planes of the exotic face again… Not a bad sight to greet first thing in the morning at all, Duo thought smugly. "Where had he come from?" the brunette wondered. Duo was pretty sure that he wasn't part of the hired help. So the question was: who was he?
He extended a slender palm. " I don't believe we've met," the longhaired man purred silkily. "I'm Duo."
The brunette grunted as he enveloped Duo's palm in his own. " Heero," he said finally.
Duo froze in the act of withdrawing his hand. Heero… A memory filled his vision. Of Zechs caressing him by hazy lamplight, touching him with a love and tenderness that made his heart ache. Those long fingers tangling in his hair, the azure eyes locking heatedly with his… And then…
["Heero."]
Duo's hand dropped to the table with a hollow sound. He ignored Heero's confused expression as he valiantly suppressed the instinctive anger and resentment he felt towards the other man. He tried to remind himself that Heero too had suffered. Was still suffering, if he correctly remembered Zechs' words about the brunette's father's death. It was not easy. For on the heels of those emotions came a gnawing sense of betrayal. That Quatre and Trowa had invited him here, knowing that his rival would be as well. Did they all take him for a fool? Duo wondered angrily. Did they really know him so little as to believe that he could watch Zechs constantly lusting after his ex-lover and not be affected by it? His eyes narrowed. Perhaps Zechs had also known… No, he remembered all too clearly Zechs' disappointment at finding him his only companion. The thought was some consolation to him- however small.
Duo swallowed the anger building within him, forcing himself to regard Heero with equanimity. "It's a pleasure," he finally said hoarsely. Instinctively his lips curled in a derisive smirk.
Heero's expression darkened and his blue eyes became cold. "Likewise."
The abrupt change in the stranger's demeanor irked him inexplicably. Normally he ignored these kinds of things. He was accustomed to others receiving him poorly but there was something about this introduction that he couldn't put his finger on. -A thinly veiled animosity that had little to do with any natural aversion to him.
The silence stretched taut between them. Inwardly, Duo chuckled darkly at the ironies of fate. He * could * see why Zechs had fallen in love with Heero. The man * was * beautiful and his deep eyes sparked with unmistakable intelligence. But more than that was the brunette's magnetism: the wildness and the glimpses of vulnerability that peeked through those blue, blue eyes if you looked carefully. Or when he turned his head just * so * to reveal a surprisingly sensuous profile. Duo wanted to hate him and yet he too * wanted * to know what was beneath. Impossibly, the knowledge made him angrier. He wanted Heero to be inferior in some way… Some way that would justify an attempt to come between him and Zechs.
Just as he was about to bait Heero out of his controlled silence, Treize and Wufei wandered in, breaking the growing tension. When they spotted the two, seated men, both paused uncertainly. Wufei was the first to venture comment.
"Good Morning, Duo… Heero, I didn't realize you were would be here," he said neutrally. He looked from his best friend to the stoic youth.
"Hn." Heero rose and placed his mug in the sink before turning around. " I came in last night. Late."
Treize, who finally seemed to have regained his voice nodded, a pleasant smile breaking across his lips. "Ah. Then I'm glad you could join us. Have you met Duo?" The aristocrat indicated the braided youth. Duo's an old friend of ours. He's visiting from out of town," Treize explained.
Heero nodded. "I have." The brunette shrugged past the couple. "If you'll excuse me…"
Wufei watched as his messy-haired friend disappeared in the direction of the gardens. He turned to Duo, who was still sitting silently at the table. "Maxwell, what did we just walk in on?"
Duo laughed bitterly. "Why I just met the love of Zechs' life," he said harshly. "Didn't you see?"
Treize raised a honeyed eyebrow. He turned to Wufei with a concerned expression. "Dragon, if you want me to, I can leave you two to--"
"No," Duo interrupted. He rubbed wearily at his eyes. " I'm sorry guys," he said genuinely. "I' was being a prick." The brunette sighed. " It's just that my day seems to be off to an awful start…." Duo made an exasperated sound as Treize hesitated near the door. "Treize, don't leave. It's ok, - * really *."
Wufei came to sit in Heero's abandoned chair. He pierced the other man with a serious look. " Are you certain, Duo?" he asked solemnly.
"Sheesh!" Duo exploded. "Wu, I'm fine." He nodded towards the older man. "Treize, sit down and have some breakfast."
Seeing that his young friend was insistent. Treize shrugged and took a seat near his lover. Instinctively his hand slipped beneath the shielding tablecloth and he began to massage the cloth-covered knee closest to him. Wufei shot him a glare, but Treize blithely ignored it, blinking innocently at the younger man. Instead he reached across the table for one of the golden peaches in the bowl at the center. Contentedly, he bit into the plump flesh, and listened as the other men chatted idly.
While Duo regaled Wufei with anecdotes from his life in New York, Treize contemplated the earlier incident. Did Zechs know that Heero had arrived? "And what would it mean to him to have both Heero and Duo here?" the ginger-haired man wondered. He shook his head in disbelief. This week was turning out to be more interesting than he had imagined.
Speaking of interesting things… last night had certainly proved enjoyable, Treize mused lustily. Lovingly, he watched as Wufei listened to Duo. He couldn't wait to make good use of the many hours ahead of them today, the older man thought eagerly. The aristocrat stood and poured himself and Wufei some coffee. Remembering how Wufei liked it, he added two sugars and a generous amount of cream to his lover's cup. Bringing it to the table he placed it before his dragon, kissing the dark-haired beauty softly on his forehead before taking his own seat.
Duo raised an eyebrow at the movement and erupted in teasing laughter. "Awww," he cooed, "that was so cute."
When Wufei frowned, Treize chuckled. "Sorry Love." He nodded towards Duo. "Duo, you didn't see that right?"
Duo crossed his palm over his chest and grinned. "Scouts honor," he said solemnly. "There's no way I just saw Treize kiss his Wu-bear," he teased.
Wufei just rolled his eyes and sipped primly from his coffee. He glanced from one man to the other. " I refuse to be baited by your juvenile antics," he announced haughtily.
"Juvenile?" Treize repeated with mock indignation and Duo nodded. "Yeah!" he piped in. "We're wounded man!"
Wufei shook his head. "Anyway," he responded airily. "Duo what are your plans for today?"
~~~
Zechs awoke slowly, stretching his long limbs and then settling back against the pillows. His mind was still fuzzy, his body languid with sleep. Reluctant to abandon the covers, he lingered for a moment, closing his eyes against the soft, morning light. Unbidden, images of last night rushed to his memory. A slumbering Heero burned behind his eyelids: pale and slender amidst rumpled sheets.
Immediately the blonde sat up. Throwing back the covers, Zechs ambled over to the closet. He stepped inside then paused uncertainly at the hidden door. Dare he open it? The blonde shook his head. Too risky. "What if Heero was there - and awake?" the aristocrat reasoned. How would he explain his presence? Heero would be enraged. And far worse would be the destruction of the only avenue that allowed him to be close even a little close to his heart. Especially since he didn't doubt that if the younger man discovered the closet, he would promptly request another room, far, far away from his.
Zechs bent and peered through the keyhole, but the poor light and his low vantage point made it impossible to see if Heero was still inside. Sighing, he slid to the floor, his back resting against the door. The Adonis considered the situation. He imagined himself stealing into Heero's room while the brunette was awake and making love to him so tenderly and thoroughly, that the walls around the beauty's heart would fall away, leaving him loving and trusting in his arms.
If only… Zechs laughed bitterly. He'd messed up too badly to entertain those kinds of ideas. Turning, he peeked through the hole once more.
How could he make Heero his?
~~~
As the three men conversed easily, Duo couldn't help the air despondence that fell over him. Treize and Wufei did nothing overt, but even a fool wouldn't miss the tender glances they stole when each thought his lover wasn't looking.
Normally, the evidence of Wufei's "surrender" would be a source of delight to the singer, but at the moment it could only rouse a painful yearning in him. Eventually, Duo rose, excusing himself from his friend's company to find his own quiet spot.
As Duo headed towards the living room, he was just in time to see Treize pull Wufei onto his lap. The brunette lingered behind the safety of the doorframe and watched as they whispered heatedly to each other, Treize's hands sliding beneath the hem of the Chinese's tee shirt, rubbing caressingly and then moving lower.
A wistful smile touched Duo's lips as he moved away, hands shoved deeply into his pockets.
Ah, wasn't love grand?
~~~
Heero wandered about one of the manor's gardens, his mind inexplicably still on this morning's encounter. The blue-eyed youth had kept mostly to himself for the day and so had found out little else about the newcomer. Heero didn't know why it mattered to him, only that it did. He was hoping to get some answers to where he had seen the other man before - and why Duo seemed to resent him. And resent him Duo did, that much Heero brunette was certain of. Now he just had to find out why…
"Hn."
Abandoning his fruitless thoughts, Heero settled on a nearby garden bench and contented himself with admiring the lush beauty. Trees of every shape, size and color to grew around him in seeming abandonment. Fragrant rosebush spotted the lawn before him and in unexpected niches sun-bright lemon peeked from behind pungent, earth-dark leaves. Ripe, ruby-flushed pomegranate drooped sleepily from their straining stalks and exotic cattelya orchids grew near his elbow in glorious, riotous color, their velvet petals open eagerly to the sunlight. To the solemn brunette, the large trees and extravagant blooms created a tranquil, yet somehow sensuous atmosphere and Heero allowed himself a smile. This was truly peaceful.
"It * is * beautiful isn't it?" a deep voice interrupted.
Subtly, Heero tensed as Zechs approached and came to stand next to him. He didn't know why he was surprised: He should have known that Zechs would be here. If not because the blonde was one of Trowa's and Quatre's closest friends - but because his luck would never permit him to go a moment - much less an entire week- without torment. Silently, Heero braced himself.
Zechs sat next to the brunette. After the initial shock of last night's discovery had faded, the blonde had vowed to continue with his plan to woo Heero. In fact as the day wore on, he became more convinced of the situation's advantages. To have Heero so close…
Zechs had resolved to act immediately.
Which explained what he was doing here, risking Heero's wrath - and his own heart - by intruding on what was obviously a private moment. Yet the aristocrat was determined to get his Love back and this was the perfect opportunity to start.
"This is one of my favorite places," Zechs ventured. "I love the peacefulness."
Heero did not look up. "Yes," the brunette said evenly. "Which you are disturbing right now."
Zechs was so close. From the corner of his eye Heero could see the pale strands of the blonde's hair lifting in the breeze. He could feel Zechs' body heat. Smell his skin…
Heero's heart was hammering in his chest. He refused to run. But he couldn't look into Zechs' eyes. -Not when he couldn't trust himself not to surrender to those familiar, * deceptive* charms. Heero squared his shoulders. Never again, he vowed.
Unaware of his ex-lover's turmoil, Zechs saw only the stubborn movement. He sighed. "Must it always be like this?" he asked softly. Deliberately he turned to face the brunette. "Is it so wrong for me to want to enjoy this with you?"
Between them, Heero's hand rested on the bench, fingers curled defensively inward. Tentatively, Milliardo covered it with his larger palm. The tawny lashes lowered. "All I'm asking for is a moment Heero. Just to enjoy your company."
Heero shot him a wary, sidelong glance. The hand beneath Zechs' trembled slightly. "Hn."
Milliardo smiled, watching as his beauty turned to stare once more at the flowers in front of him. But Heero did not remove his hand. And Zechs strove to prevent the trembling of his own limbs at the tiny victory. Tenderly, he stared at the youth next to him, eyes traveling from the unruly locks caressing the smooth forehead; to the gentle swell of the brunette's lower lip. Oh, how he longed to hold that sweet body close again. But not yet, not yet. He had to take things slowly, the large blonde reminded himself.
Heero's cheek was flushed with color - from the balmy, afternoon temperature Zechs knew. But he hoped it meant that Heero also felt the pleasurable tingle that raced through his skin at having that small, warm palm pressed so lovingly against his own. It took all of his willpower to release the slender beauty. "Walk with me?" Zechs asked quietly.
Heero paused. He nodded faintly.
"Alright."
~~~
Quatre knocked softly. "Duo?"
There was no answer from within, but the blonde entered the room anyway. He wasn't surprised to find Duo lying across his bed, one pale arm thrown over his eyes. Quietly, Quatre approached. Gently, he shook the supine form. "Duo?" Worriedly, the petite Arabian bit his lip. "Duo are you asleep - or just ignoring me?"
"Just ignoring you." Abruptly Duo rolled over to face the man at his side. "What do you want?" he demanded curtly.
Quatre flinched. Gingerly he sat on the mattress. " I…Wufei told me you met Heero this morning," he replied softy. "And I…" He trailed off, gaze falling to his lap.
Duo sat up. "And you what?" he asked harshly. "You wanted to see how well I was handling the humiliation?" The brunette laughed shortly. " You know, it would have been nice for someone to say to me: "Duo, you know that guy Zechs chose over you? The one he pines for everyday regardless of whether you're there or not? Well he's here!" The violet gaze hardened. "I thought you were my friend Q'" Duo said bitterly. "I guess I was wrong." The chestnut-haired youth shook his head angrily. "Story of my life."
Quatre shook his head. "You're wrong Duo." He stared into pained violet eyes. " I *am * your friend." The petite youth took a deep breath. " But I'm also Heero's." The blonde made a chopping gesture with his hand when Duo tried to interrupt him. " I * do * owe you an apology for not preparing you for Heero's arrival," he admitted. "And I'm sorry. But even I was not certain that he would come." Quatre lowered his head. " And I can't pretend that I would do things any differently, given the chance. " he confessed softly.
Duo raised a single brow. "Then what's the point of apologizing?" His mouth turned down venomously. " * Please*, don't say anything you don't mean for * my * sake, Quatre."
"No! You deserve an apology because you're my friend and I never wanted to be the one to hurt you," Quatre blurted feelingly. "But Heero is a good man. Like you--" Quatre whispered. "And you have no idea what he's been through. And-and--" the blonde stammered. " I feel responsible. I should never have--" Firmly, the pale man squelched the thought. Aquamarine eyes bore pleadingly into Duo's. " They love each other Duo. And he * needs * this relationship with Zechs."
"Sure! And cheery ol' Duo can survive on grins and cheap jokes!" Duo hissed. "Why should he want love?" the brunette spat sarcastically.
"That's not--" Quatre protested.
The singer cut him off. " Not what?" he goaded. "Not fair?" His fist clenched. How dare *you *! You with your picture perfect relationship with Trowa, mess with mine? Talk to me about fair when you know what it feels like to have the man you love choose someone else."
Quatre's head snapped up. His voice trembled with the effort for control.
" Duo," he said carefully. 'I understand that you're angry and hurt and I accept responsibility for that." The Arabian gazed at his friend evenly. " But leave Trowa out of this," he ground out. " It's been four years! You had your chance with Zechs and * you *left him. * You * destroyed your relationship not me!" the blonde said heatedly. " I respect that you had your reasons for leaving and I even understand them but--"
Quatre took a calming breath. " You know what it's like to be loved Duo," he murmured. " Heero doesn't." He clasped the other man's hand desperately. " * Give * him the chance D. * Please*. If it's meant to be, nothing - and no one - can come between you and Zechs. But if it's not, you have to let him go…"
The blonde crawled across the bed and folded Duo's tense form in his arms and felt the fine tremors shivering through the slender frame. Tenderly Quatre stroked the silken head. " I'm sorry, he whispered genuinely, tears clouding his own vision. " I'm so, so sorry."
~~~
"Here, try this one." Zechs tore the spiked flesh of the soursop* open, exposing the soft, milky flesh. He'd been delighted to find the exotic fruit growing under carefully controlled conditions in one of Quatre's greenhouses - and even more pleased to be able to introduce it to Heero.
Heero eyed the morsel hesitantly and Zechs laughed. " Come on, it won't bite." His eyes locked with Heero's, then trailed downwards to his softly parted lips. "I promise." he said huskily.
Heero snorted and moved to taste the offering. The dark head bent closer and Zechs' eyes closed, the sight rendering him suddenly breathless. His palm trembled, dipping slightly in his agitation.
Heero ducked forward, making a displeased sound as the mouthful threatened to slip from his lips. Immediately Zechs' eyes snapped open. Hastily he tried to capture it as well, apologizing profusely while he did so. They ended up with his palm tenderly cupping Heero's chin, the long fingers of his other hand brushing the sensitive seam of the brunette's mouth.
" Here, I--" Zechs stilled. Heero's eyes widened, faint color touching his cheeks as he hurriedly captured the tangy fruit and tried to lean away. The entire situation reminded him much too vividly of another evening he and Zechs had shared together. In withdrawing, the wet pink of the brunette's tongue touched Zechs' fingertips and the older man suppressed a delicious shudder.
"So--" The blonde cleared his throat. "What do you think?"
"Ah, good." Quickly, Heero rose from his seat on the lawn. Carefully avoiding the other man's gaze he wiped the small bits of grass off his jeans. " I better go in," he announced absently.
Zechs nodded, standing as well. "Sure," he said softly, disappointed at Heero's decision, but pleased at the day's events. He couldn't help but feel that he'd made some progress today. " Heero?" Zechs called after the brunette's retreating form.
The slender Asian paused, looking over his shoulder. "Yes?"
The blonde smiled. " Thanks."
Heero nodded then disappeared into the darkness.
~~~
Heero turned out the lights and climbed into bed. His mind was awhirl with thoughts, all of them centered on a certain blonde. He didn't quite understand what had happened this afternoon. Zechs had been…different. It had actually been pleasant to spend some time with him. It almost made him wish… The brunette squelched the thought, firmly reminding himself that he couldn't let anything else develop between them. It was over. Zechs' words from that day in the cafeteria echoed in his head. Was this afternoon part of some plan to win him back? What if it had all been a ploy?
Sighing, Heero rolled over and snuggled into the pillow. He'd try to make sense of it all in the morning.
~~~
Silently, Zechs slipped into Heero's bedroom. This time his love was lying on his side, knees pulled close to his body and covers pulled up to his chin. Carefully, the blonde moved to gently kiss the cheek peeking above the comforter. And as he turned to leave he allowed himself one last look at the sleeping form. Remembering the afternoon they'd spent together he smiled.
Tomorrow was another day.
* Though i live in the US now, I grew up on a Caribbean island, so these were very common. It's one of my favorite fruits and absolutely delicious with milk. I don't know how to describe it other than it's a large, spiky green fruit with milky, slightly tangy inner flesh. Here's a link I found about the fruit if anyone's interested: http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/soursop.html
< br> Thanks for reading!!