Gundam Wing Fan Fiction ❯ Bonds of Love ❯ Chapter 7
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
By: Arigatomina 
Anime/Manga: Gundam Wing Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Drama / Hentai / Romance | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 07.08.2002 | Pages: 2 | Words: 4.6K | Visits: 1.0K | Status: Work In Progress
Anime/Manga: Gundam Wing Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Drama / Hentai / Romance | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 07.08.2002 | Pages: 2 | Words: 4.6K | Visits: 1.0K | Status: Work In Progress
Author's Notes: This is a fusion with the book: So Worthy My Love by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss. While there will be no text reproduced here, the story line will follow the book's almost exactly, any changes made not too drastic.
Category: Yaoi, AU, Gundam Wing, fusion with a book
Pairings: 5+2, will be 1x2, vague hints at 3x4/3+4
Warnings: shonen ai
Author: Arigatomina
Email: arigatoumina@hotmail.com
Bonds of Love
Part 7
It was so cold when Duo peeked out from beneath the covers that his immediate reaction was to duck back under them again. His brief glance had revealed that the sun was rising, and he knew it was time to get up. But the fire had burned down and his nose twitched at the thought of his bare feet touching the cold floor. He'd removed his dress since the room had been plenty warm when he'd gone to sleep, but now he wished he hadn't as the thin slip was of no comfort to him. For a moment, he entertained the thought of simply going back to sleep, but he knew he wouldn't be able to. Rising early was a habit he'd gotten into and he finally sat up with an aggrieved sigh, clutching the blanket to him as he swung his legs over the edge of the bed.
The floor was as freezing as he'd expected and he groaned as his toes curled, forcing his legs to hold still as they tried to get away from it. Eventually, he'd grown accustomed to the temperature and despite his shivers, he finally stood. Taking the blanket with him, he crossed to the antique dresser, scowling when he realized he'd have to wear the dress. While his disguise was obviously useless, it was the only clothing he had so there wasn't much choice in the matter. Huddling beneath the blanket, he dressed within the warm shield before setting the cloth back on the bed. A glance at the window showed that the sun was, indeed, rising, and he let out another sigh as he moved to the bucket of water. Trowa had been kind enough to bring it up to his room before locking him in, but he could tell by the frost on the metal surface that the water was much too cold to wash in.
Glaring at the water, he blinked slowly as he listened to the silence that filled the castle, a slow smile coming to his lips. He knew from the time they'd spent that Trowa and Quatre didn't rise very early and he wondered if the same could be said about Heero. There wasn't any stirring coming from above and he suddenly realized where the man had no doubt bedded down. There was only one other room in the castle that had a bed, and it was the one he'd noticed when they'd first arrived; the one with the broken door and the hole in the roof. Duo smirked as he wondered if his captor wasn't miserable with his room, knowing the man had to be colder than he was. His eyes were drawn again to the bucket of water and his heart raced as an idea formed.
The door to the room upstairs had been completely off its hinges and there was no way the two could have repaired it overnight. There was nothing to stop an aggrieved prisoner from gaining entrance, provided, of course, that Heero was still asleep. But he thought he would be, considering the distance the man had traveled and the conditions of the snow-covered terrain. //And it would be so very fitting.// Mind made up, he slipped his feet into the thin slippers he'd left near his bed and grasped the cold handle of the bucket, his violet eyes shining. //Revenge is so sweet.//
He made a tiny detour before climbing the stairs, and he was reassured that there was no one awake below. While he'd never had reason for stealth as a child, he was good at it now as he breathed as quietly as he could, his eyes wide, nervous energy rushing through him. Without incidence, he reached his destination and he paused in the hall, watching the door that lay against the wall. The doorway to the room was open. A cold breeze tingled about his feet and he grinned at the thought of the man sleeping as he hoped he'd catch pneumonia. It was with tiny steps that he crept to the doorway, and he peeked inside quickly, snapping his head back out as he leaned against the wall and thought about what he'd seen. The hole in the roof hadn't been covered, but a large tub had been placed beneath it to catch whatever snow fell in. The large bed had been surrounded by a thick canopy of blankets and Duo sneered as he realized the man probably wasn't as cold as he'd hoped. //But he will be,// Duo thought, his eyes narrowing as he looked down at the water. The bucket was almost painfully cold to the touch and he could just imagine what the water would feel like. His quick glance had found his target sleeping and he took a deep breath before slipping into the room.
His feet made no sound as he stepped to the bed, and he smiled as he looked at the sleeping man. Then his smile slowly faded as he looked closer. He looked younger than he'd thought, his face relaxed as he slept and Duo found his eyes drawn to Heero's features. While he was covered to the chin in blankets, a golden arm had slipped out and the man seemed vulnerable somehow. //He's completely off guard now.// It was obvious that the man had needed sleep as his deep breathing was heavy and his brows were relaxed, his face seeming smoother than Duo had remembered. For the first time, Duo found himself actually looking at the man, and his lips twitched as he eyed the unruly brown hair that hung over his face.
He was hesitating. It took nearly a minute before he realized it, but he knew it was true because his arms had dropped, the bucket he'd held high in preparation now lowered. It seemed wrong somehow, taking advantage of the man's sleep and Duo gritted his teeth, reminding himself of the atrocity that had been committed against him. //He kidnapped me. It doesn't matter if it was a mistake, he knows it was and he still won't let me go. I told him I'd make him miserable and I never lie. Besides, he's a traitor.// Before his determination could diminish, he took a small step back, his muscles taut as he swung the bucket. The water arced through the air and Duo followed it with his eyes, watching as it landed square in the sleeping man's face.
Never had he imagined someone could wake so quickly and he was stunned when blazing cobalt eyes flew open. Heero let out a snarl as he sat up, staring around him before locating the boy standing beside his bed. Duo had taken a few steps back when those eyes had opened, but he froze now, his muscles ignoring him as his mind panicked. The man had leapt to his feet, fists clenched as his head lowered and he stared at the boy as if the heat of his fury could catch him on fire. And it did in a way, as Duo no longer felt the cold, his eyes impossibly wide in his face as he stared at the figure standing before him. He was completely naked and Duo's eyes were burning as much as his face. Then Heero moved and Duo's instinct kicked in and he was running for the door.
The man was obviously intent on murder and Duo knew he was gaining when he reached the hall. Turning in mid-flight, he swung the bucket and let go, the pained grunt telling him he'd hit his target as he ran faster, pelting down the stairs. The loud thump and muttered curse would have been music to his ears if he hadn't heard steps coming fast as the man resumed his chase. By now, though, Duo had reached the second floor and he skidded as he threw himself into his room, shoving the heavy door shut behind him and barring it. His heart raced, pounding in his ears and he sagged against the wood, resting his forehead on the smooth surface as he relished in his safety.
When the door shook suddenly, he jerked back, his eyes widening as he recognized the sound as Heero hitting it with the palm of his hand. Wondering if the hinges would hold, he stopped breathing as he stared at the door in absolute terror.
"You..." The voice was so low Duo barely heard it, but the growling tone sent a shiver down his back as he took another step away from the door. "If you *ever*...do that again...I'll tear down this door and kill you," Heero said, his voice dangerously cold. "Slowly."
* * *
The sun had reached the middle of the sky by the time Duo got up the nerve to venture from the questionable safety of his room. Mostly, it was hunger that drove him to risk his life, and as bad as the cooking was, he didn't want to die of starvation. His steps were carefully silent as he crept down the curved staircase, and he froze as he spotted Heero seated at the table before the fire. The man was looking at him, cobalt eyes so intense Duo's muscles clenched. He was turning to run back to his room when the man spoke.
"Come down," Heero said, his voice toneless as he stared at the longhaired boy. He hadn't really gotten over his fury, but he knew killing the boy was taking it too far. Duo obviously wouldn't stand a chance against him and as much as he would have liked to beat him, he wasn't one to resort to such methods. "I have business to attend to in town and we *will* straighten this out before I go." The boy hadn't moved, and his eyes narrowed as his anger threatened to rise again. Then Duo gave a slow nod and moved down the steps.
If it hadn't been so cowardly, Duo would have refused, but his pride had jumped up as he imagined the pleasure the man would no doubt have in knowing he'd frightened him. "Fine, I was hungry anyway." He crossed to the fireplace and filled a bowl with the odd-looking substance the large kettle contained, focusing his attention on the prospect of eating the slop as he stirred up his courage. When he was certain he could hold out, he turned with a careless expression and took the seat across from Heero. "Well," he said, his tone coated in dislike, "Talk."
"Hn." The boy's manner had him on edge and he still wanted to hit him, but he also admired the boldness. "Even if I had a mind to take you back to England, or send you back, there is no way I could do so," he said slowly, watching as those violet eyes narrowed. "The sea is frozen, no ships will be going out. You have no choice but to remain here until spring comes." Duo looked as if he was about to argue and Heero glared at him, rising suddenly. It would have satisfied him if the boy had flinched, but instead, he simply looked at him, anger evident in his bright eyes. "As it is, we are forced to share this castle. You *will* cease your attack against me. Or suffer the consequences. Do you understand?"
"Look," Duo said, suddenly filled with a foreign need to be reasonable. As much as he would have liked to give a smart retort, his sense of self-preservation told him it was a bad idea. "It's not like *you* have to see me back. Just give me a ride to town and I'll do it myself. I'm sure I can find *someone* who'd be willing to go. There's no way every single ship is going to stay here all winter."
"No."
There was no give in the man's answer and Duo gnashed his teeth, wanting nothing more than to throw something at him. He would have hit him, but he'd seen the man's build and he knew better. //I've seen more than just his build.// Flushing at his thoughts, Duo centered his mind quickly. "You're not being reasonable about this. Why would you keep me here? There's no reason to. You said you were going to town anyway, just take me with you and once we're there, I'll be out of your hair."
"I said no," Heero rumbled, glaring at the seated boy. "The discussion is over."
"You jerk, stop talking to me like that!" Duo's sensible side winced as he'd just thrown caution out the window, but he was furious.
"Do not anger me. Or I won't be held responsible for my actions." With that, Heero turned, throwing on his coat as he strode to the door, not looking back. He'd had enough, with the boy and his tongue. If he'd thought it would do any good, he would have simply explained his reasoning to him, but he knew Duo would never believe him. He knew from their discussion while he'd been in the guise of a servant that the boy thought him to be a murderer and a traitor. There was no way he'd believe Heero was actually protecting him by keeping him away from England. While the search for the boy's father had been low profile before, it had escalated since he'd left the country. He'd even heard of rewards while he was on board the ship.
It seemed everyone was looking for Ramsey Maxwell...and his son. Heero hadn't thought too much about it when he'd overheard one of the conversations while on the ship, but then, he hadn't known either of the two people that were being hunted. It was common knowledge that Ramsey had disappeared some months ago and while no one seemed to know who had him, the rumor of his hidden treasure had brought out headhunters all over the place. And, it seemed that someone had let out the news of Duo's disappearance as well. Since he hadn't known who the boy was, Heero never made the connection until he discovered the boy's name, but he was now convinced it was Edward who had leaked the information. From his knowledge of the man, he no doubt hoped to find the boy so he could have the treasure for himself.
A return to England would mean certain death for the boy now, and as much as Heero was angry with him, his sense of honor *was* still active. It had been he who'd taken the boy away from his hiding place and the disguise that had obviously been able to fool many. He simply couldn't send the boy back now that people would be looking for him. No, he was stuck with the boy, whether he liked it or not.
Clearing his mind as he crossed the courtyard to the stable, he nodded to Quatre when the blonde man paused. "Get him out of that dress," he muttered, swinging onto his horse as the pale man had readied it for him. "I'm going to take care of this castle. If he charged you extra, despite faltering in his part of the deal, then by rights we not only own this castle but the surrounding lands as well." He was speaking of the man he'd rented the manor house from, and he knew that he would get his demands. "I'll be gone till nightfall, have my door fixed by then. With a bolt for it," he added, remembering his awakening. "Or next time, you'll be cleaning up blood."
Quatre winced as he nodded quickly. He'd heard of the confrontation and as much as he sympathized with the boy in question, he understood Heero's fury. No one stood up to the man, and he wasn't eager to see Duo hurt. He still felt guilty for having done his part in the boy's kidnapping and as soon as Heero left the courtyard, he hurried to follow his orders, catching Trowa quickly. The last thing he wanted was for the oddly brave boy to try that stunt again as he was certain Heero would carry out his threats.
* * *
"Heero, you don't look well at all." Sitting as the cobalt-eyed man joined him, Wufei raised an eyebrow as he took in the intense scowl. "I would have thought your homecoming would be a joyous one. Your betrothed is quite the lady."
Snorting, Heero waved to one of the men serving as he ordered quickly before turning to his friend. "My *betrothed* is currently married to another," he said bitingly, scowling at his glass as he leaned over the table. "She is lost to me."
"What? I just saw her not three weeks ago, what has happened?" His eyes narrowed as he wondered if the girl had escaped somehow and he cursed. "She ran away, didn't she."
"No, she never left England." The black-haired man's confusion was apparent and Heero slowly forced himself to see the irony. "They took the wrong person."
"No. I don't believe it! How could they? Then...who is she? Who did they take?" Wufei's mind flew and his eyes glinted as he realized what his friend's news meant. English wasn't engaged to him, therefore, she was fair game.
"Duo Maxwell," Heero murmured, his own eyes glinting as he took perverse pleasure in his friend's shock. "The *son* of Ramsey Maxwell."
"What?! But she--" Wufei choked suddenly, coughing as he bent forward over the table. It was a moment before he recovered, and his eyes bored into Heero's. "Are you saying she is a boy?"
The slow way he said it made Heero smirk and he gave a nod. "That's right. And not just any boy, he's a Maxwell."
"Max..." He knew the name, of course he did. Everyone did who had ties with the underground and that included him. "A boy...I can't believe he's a boy..."
"Yes, well, he is." Glaring at the table, Heero shook his head. "And I'm stuck with him. I can't send him back to England, so I'm stuck."
"How could he be a boy?"
The man was starting to get on his nerves, and Heero sent him a fierce glare. "Get over it. He's a boy. Why are you having such a hard time accepting that?"
"But...he's so...beautiful." Wufei was gazing at the table, so he missed the way Heero's eyes nearly fell out of his head, they were so wide with disbelief. //A boy. I guess...it makes sense. I've never met a woman like that, one with such sense, such spirit. I...I should have known.// When he glanced up, he blinked at his friend's stunned expression, frowning. "What?"
"You think he's *beautiful*?! He's a menace! Infuriating, the epitome of a child that hasn't been taught respect."
"He's not a child," Wufei said, his mind still flying. "And he *is* beautiful. Didn't you look at him? I don't care if he isn't a girl, he's..."
"Wufei. Tell me you aren't actually thinking of--"
"Can I call on him?"
Heero nearly swallowed his tongue as he grasped the table harshly to keep himself from falling over. "What?! Are you insane?"
"Well," Wufei said, raising an eyebrow, "You obviously have no liking for him. I wouldn't mind finding out what sort of person he is. After all, it isn't often you meet a boy who makes such a lovely woman. And *I* find his spirit alluring."
"You...have gone insane." Shaking his head, Heero stared at the black-eyed man, unable to understand what he was hearing. //Alluring?! Lovely?!// Finally, he couldn't do more than wait for himself to calm. "You want to call on him. As a suitor? Duo Maxwell?"
"Well, I know it may come as a surprise to you, Heero, but I'm not getting any younger. I happen to appreciate the *boy's* distinct charms. You obviously are far too caught up with your beloved to see them, but that is understandable. Just give me leave and maybe, I can relieve you of your burden."
"Not by force." Heero blinked at his own sharp command, and scowled for a moment, the recipient of well-deserved outrage. "I apologize. That was uncalled for. He's just gotten my nerve up and I'm on edge. If you truly want me to go along with your insane wish, then I will."
"Good, tell him I'll call on him tomorrow," Wufei said, eyes glinting as he suddenly wanted to smirk. He couldn't imagine how the boy would react, but he knew it would be a sight. Still, he had been honest in what he'd told his friend, he was intrigued and his attraction wasn't the least bit diminished by the knowledge that 'English' was a boy. "I'm sure he'll be happy to hear it."
"You're being sarcastic, aren't you?" Frowning, Heero wasn't sure if the man was, but he shook his head. "I'll tell him, but I don't think he'll accept the news well."
"Hm." Wufei wasn't paying too much attention as he realized the boy *would* be glad to see him. If for no other reason than to check on the money he'd given him to invest. While he didn't like having to use such a method to get on the boy's good side, he took openings where he found them. "I look forward to this."
"You're insane..."
* * *
The castle was quiet when he entered it, and Heero moved through the front hall and up the stairs with a troubled mind. He'd known Wufei for years, and he'd thought the man had good taste when it came to women, or men, but now he doubted that taste. It was obvious to him that his friend had either been bewitched somehow, or he'd seen something Heero hadn't. Pausing as he saw Duo's door, his eyes glinted suddenly and he stepped to it, pressing lightly. Sure enough, the door was securely barred and he knew the boy wasn't taking any chances with him. //Maybe he took my warning to heart,// Heero thought, as he moved up to his own room. His door was strong and he bolted it with satisfaction as he knew there would be no way the boy could get through it. Thinking of what Duo had done to him, he felt a tiny glimmer of humor as he had to admit it had taken courage. Still, he wasn't going to let anything like that happen again.
Crossing the room, he glared at the still open hole in the ceiling for a moment before starting a fire. It would do little good, but he still did it. Despite the cold, he took off his coat and hung it on the odd dragon that stood at the corner of the mantle. Then his eyes widened as his coat promptly dipped and the wall beside his bed slid back with a dull grating sound. He'd been in castles before, and he was acquainted with the habit of building escape tunnels into the walls. With his curiosity peaked, he grasped the candle from the dresser and lit it, stepping into the dark passageway.
It obviously hadn't been used in ages and he held an arm out in front of him to keep the thick cobwebs from hitting his face. The tunnel curved briefly and he found himself moving down some stone stairs before his way was abruptly blocked. With his experience, he quickly found the release for the door, and he frowned as he found himself looking at the back of some sort of thick cloth. Touching it, he pushed forward, his eyes narrowing when dim light reached him. It was with distinct satisfaction that he viewed the room he'd accessed and he smirked as he looked to the occupied bed, letting the large tapestry fall silently behind him.
The room was much nicer than his, and he felt irritation as he stepped to the bed, eyeing the sleeping boy. If he'd felt a need for revenge, he could have taken it with ease. But he remembered his own words and simply looked at the boy, not wanting to start anything. Leaning forward so the boy was illuminated by the candle, Heero made a startling discovery and he blinked. He *was* lovely. Without a scowl, the boy's features were smooth and Heero stared at the way those long lashes stood out against his cheeks. His hair had come partly undone and it was as if he noticed it for the first time, his eyes moving to the golden glints before slipping to the boy's exposed chest. Lying on his back, Duo had an arm curved over his head, and the blankets had slipped down a bit to just below his shoulders.
//How could I have missed this? Was I *that* distracted?// Staring, Heero understood completely why Wufei had been eager to seek the boy and he nodded slowly. His friend had obviously seen a side of the boy that he hadn't and it was with very slow movements that Heero tore his eyes away when Duo sighed and shivered slightly, his arm moving beneath the blanket as he pulled them up a bit in his sleep. He hadn't really noticed, but he turned as he looked to the fireplace, seeing the dying embers. Without thinking about what he was doing, he added a few logs to the fire, watching till it caught. Looking to the boy once more, he shook his head at the thought of having failed to notice the boy's beauty. It wasn't until he lifted the tapestry that he was reminded why he didn't like the boy and his lips twitched. The lock on the outside of the hidden door had been removed.
He left the room silently as he gave himself a mental reminder to be nicer to Trowa and Quatre as they had shown great sense in removing the lock. It was obvious that the two had noticed the passageway and weren't about to keep him from having access to the boy's room. //That's why they put a bolt on the inside of his door. So he'd think he has a safe place to hide. Clever.// He returned to his room, taking a long board from the broken ceiling, and levered it against Duo's door. That way, the boy wouldn't be able to get into the passageway. Heero still intended to put a lock on his own door just in case, but he could imagine how irritated the boy would be when he tried the door and found that it wouldn't open. If, of course, he'd even noticed it. //He probably did, though. Yes, I'll bet he did.// It was with a light heart that Heero moved back to his room, and he slept surprisingly well.
* * *
TBC
--notes--
I wanted to say that there will *not* be any 5x2 in this fic. There will be 5+2, but the pairing stands as 1x2. There *will* be a 1x2 lemon, although it will be a while. I just didn't want to get anyone's hopes up or scare any 1x2 fans. The 5+2 will remain + only.
Category: Yaoi, AU, Gundam Wing, fusion with a book
Pairings: 5+2, will be 1x2, vague hints at 3x4/3+4
Warnings: shonen ai
Author: Arigatomina
Email: arigatoumina@hotmail.com
Bonds of Love
Part 7
It was so cold when Duo peeked out from beneath the covers that his immediate reaction was to duck back under them again. His brief glance had revealed that the sun was rising, and he knew it was time to get up. But the fire had burned down and his nose twitched at the thought of his bare feet touching the cold floor. He'd removed his dress since the room had been plenty warm when he'd gone to sleep, but now he wished he hadn't as the thin slip was of no comfort to him. For a moment, he entertained the thought of simply going back to sleep, but he knew he wouldn't be able to. Rising early was a habit he'd gotten into and he finally sat up with an aggrieved sigh, clutching the blanket to him as he swung his legs over the edge of the bed.
The floor was as freezing as he'd expected and he groaned as his toes curled, forcing his legs to hold still as they tried to get away from it. Eventually, he'd grown accustomed to the temperature and despite his shivers, he finally stood. Taking the blanket with him, he crossed to the antique dresser, scowling when he realized he'd have to wear the dress. While his disguise was obviously useless, it was the only clothing he had so there wasn't much choice in the matter. Huddling beneath the blanket, he dressed within the warm shield before setting the cloth back on the bed. A glance at the window showed that the sun was, indeed, rising, and he let out another sigh as he moved to the bucket of water. Trowa had been kind enough to bring it up to his room before locking him in, but he could tell by the frost on the metal surface that the water was much too cold to wash in.
Glaring at the water, he blinked slowly as he listened to the silence that filled the castle, a slow smile coming to his lips. He knew from the time they'd spent that Trowa and Quatre didn't rise very early and he wondered if the same could be said about Heero. There wasn't any stirring coming from above and he suddenly realized where the man had no doubt bedded down. There was only one other room in the castle that had a bed, and it was the one he'd noticed when they'd first arrived; the one with the broken door and the hole in the roof. Duo smirked as he wondered if his captor wasn't miserable with his room, knowing the man had to be colder than he was. His eyes were drawn again to the bucket of water and his heart raced as an idea formed.
The door to the room upstairs had been completely off its hinges and there was no way the two could have repaired it overnight. There was nothing to stop an aggrieved prisoner from gaining entrance, provided, of course, that Heero was still asleep. But he thought he would be, considering the distance the man had traveled and the conditions of the snow-covered terrain. //And it would be so very fitting.// Mind made up, he slipped his feet into the thin slippers he'd left near his bed and grasped the cold handle of the bucket, his violet eyes shining. //Revenge is so sweet.//
He made a tiny detour before climbing the stairs, and he was reassured that there was no one awake below. While he'd never had reason for stealth as a child, he was good at it now as he breathed as quietly as he could, his eyes wide, nervous energy rushing through him. Without incidence, he reached his destination and he paused in the hall, watching the door that lay against the wall. The doorway to the room was open. A cold breeze tingled about his feet and he grinned at the thought of the man sleeping as he hoped he'd catch pneumonia. It was with tiny steps that he crept to the doorway, and he peeked inside quickly, snapping his head back out as he leaned against the wall and thought about what he'd seen. The hole in the roof hadn't been covered, but a large tub had been placed beneath it to catch whatever snow fell in. The large bed had been surrounded by a thick canopy of blankets and Duo sneered as he realized the man probably wasn't as cold as he'd hoped. //But he will be,// Duo thought, his eyes narrowing as he looked down at the water. The bucket was almost painfully cold to the touch and he could just imagine what the water would feel like. His quick glance had found his target sleeping and he took a deep breath before slipping into the room.
His feet made no sound as he stepped to the bed, and he smiled as he looked at the sleeping man. Then his smile slowly faded as he looked closer. He looked younger than he'd thought, his face relaxed as he slept and Duo found his eyes drawn to Heero's features. While he was covered to the chin in blankets, a golden arm had slipped out and the man seemed vulnerable somehow. //He's completely off guard now.// It was obvious that the man had needed sleep as his deep breathing was heavy and his brows were relaxed, his face seeming smoother than Duo had remembered. For the first time, Duo found himself actually looking at the man, and his lips twitched as he eyed the unruly brown hair that hung over his face.
He was hesitating. It took nearly a minute before he realized it, but he knew it was true because his arms had dropped, the bucket he'd held high in preparation now lowered. It seemed wrong somehow, taking advantage of the man's sleep and Duo gritted his teeth, reminding himself of the atrocity that had been committed against him. //He kidnapped me. It doesn't matter if it was a mistake, he knows it was and he still won't let me go. I told him I'd make him miserable and I never lie. Besides, he's a traitor.// Before his determination could diminish, he took a small step back, his muscles taut as he swung the bucket. The water arced through the air and Duo followed it with his eyes, watching as it landed square in the sleeping man's face.
Never had he imagined someone could wake so quickly and he was stunned when blazing cobalt eyes flew open. Heero let out a snarl as he sat up, staring around him before locating the boy standing beside his bed. Duo had taken a few steps back when those eyes had opened, but he froze now, his muscles ignoring him as his mind panicked. The man had leapt to his feet, fists clenched as his head lowered and he stared at the boy as if the heat of his fury could catch him on fire. And it did in a way, as Duo no longer felt the cold, his eyes impossibly wide in his face as he stared at the figure standing before him. He was completely naked and Duo's eyes were burning as much as his face. Then Heero moved and Duo's instinct kicked in and he was running for the door.
The man was obviously intent on murder and Duo knew he was gaining when he reached the hall. Turning in mid-flight, he swung the bucket and let go, the pained grunt telling him he'd hit his target as he ran faster, pelting down the stairs. The loud thump and muttered curse would have been music to his ears if he hadn't heard steps coming fast as the man resumed his chase. By now, though, Duo had reached the second floor and he skidded as he threw himself into his room, shoving the heavy door shut behind him and barring it. His heart raced, pounding in his ears and he sagged against the wood, resting his forehead on the smooth surface as he relished in his safety.
When the door shook suddenly, he jerked back, his eyes widening as he recognized the sound as Heero hitting it with the palm of his hand. Wondering if the hinges would hold, he stopped breathing as he stared at the door in absolute terror.
"You..." The voice was so low Duo barely heard it, but the growling tone sent a shiver down his back as he took another step away from the door. "If you *ever*...do that again...I'll tear down this door and kill you," Heero said, his voice dangerously cold. "Slowly."
* * *
The sun had reached the middle of the sky by the time Duo got up the nerve to venture from the questionable safety of his room. Mostly, it was hunger that drove him to risk his life, and as bad as the cooking was, he didn't want to die of starvation. His steps were carefully silent as he crept down the curved staircase, and he froze as he spotted Heero seated at the table before the fire. The man was looking at him, cobalt eyes so intense Duo's muscles clenched. He was turning to run back to his room when the man spoke.
"Come down," Heero said, his voice toneless as he stared at the longhaired boy. He hadn't really gotten over his fury, but he knew killing the boy was taking it too far. Duo obviously wouldn't stand a chance against him and as much as he would have liked to beat him, he wasn't one to resort to such methods. "I have business to attend to in town and we *will* straighten this out before I go." The boy hadn't moved, and his eyes narrowed as his anger threatened to rise again. Then Duo gave a slow nod and moved down the steps.
If it hadn't been so cowardly, Duo would have refused, but his pride had jumped up as he imagined the pleasure the man would no doubt have in knowing he'd frightened him. "Fine, I was hungry anyway." He crossed to the fireplace and filled a bowl with the odd-looking substance the large kettle contained, focusing his attention on the prospect of eating the slop as he stirred up his courage. When he was certain he could hold out, he turned with a careless expression and took the seat across from Heero. "Well," he said, his tone coated in dislike, "Talk."
"Hn." The boy's manner had him on edge and he still wanted to hit him, but he also admired the boldness. "Even if I had a mind to take you back to England, or send you back, there is no way I could do so," he said slowly, watching as those violet eyes narrowed. "The sea is frozen, no ships will be going out. You have no choice but to remain here until spring comes." Duo looked as if he was about to argue and Heero glared at him, rising suddenly. It would have satisfied him if the boy had flinched, but instead, he simply looked at him, anger evident in his bright eyes. "As it is, we are forced to share this castle. You *will* cease your attack against me. Or suffer the consequences. Do you understand?"
"Look," Duo said, suddenly filled with a foreign need to be reasonable. As much as he would have liked to give a smart retort, his sense of self-preservation told him it was a bad idea. "It's not like *you* have to see me back. Just give me a ride to town and I'll do it myself. I'm sure I can find *someone* who'd be willing to go. There's no way every single ship is going to stay here all winter."
"No."
There was no give in the man's answer and Duo gnashed his teeth, wanting nothing more than to throw something at him. He would have hit him, but he'd seen the man's build and he knew better. //I've seen more than just his build.// Flushing at his thoughts, Duo centered his mind quickly. "You're not being reasonable about this. Why would you keep me here? There's no reason to. You said you were going to town anyway, just take me with you and once we're there, I'll be out of your hair."
"I said no," Heero rumbled, glaring at the seated boy. "The discussion is over."
"You jerk, stop talking to me like that!" Duo's sensible side winced as he'd just thrown caution out the window, but he was furious.
"Do not anger me. Or I won't be held responsible for my actions." With that, Heero turned, throwing on his coat as he strode to the door, not looking back. He'd had enough, with the boy and his tongue. If he'd thought it would do any good, he would have simply explained his reasoning to him, but he knew Duo would never believe him. He knew from their discussion while he'd been in the guise of a servant that the boy thought him to be a murderer and a traitor. There was no way he'd believe Heero was actually protecting him by keeping him away from England. While the search for the boy's father had been low profile before, it had escalated since he'd left the country. He'd even heard of rewards while he was on board the ship.
It seemed everyone was looking for Ramsey Maxwell...and his son. Heero hadn't thought too much about it when he'd overheard one of the conversations while on the ship, but then, he hadn't known either of the two people that were being hunted. It was common knowledge that Ramsey had disappeared some months ago and while no one seemed to know who had him, the rumor of his hidden treasure had brought out headhunters all over the place. And, it seemed that someone had let out the news of Duo's disappearance as well. Since he hadn't known who the boy was, Heero never made the connection until he discovered the boy's name, but he was now convinced it was Edward who had leaked the information. From his knowledge of the man, he no doubt hoped to find the boy so he could have the treasure for himself.
A return to England would mean certain death for the boy now, and as much as Heero was angry with him, his sense of honor *was* still active. It had been he who'd taken the boy away from his hiding place and the disguise that had obviously been able to fool many. He simply couldn't send the boy back now that people would be looking for him. No, he was stuck with the boy, whether he liked it or not.
Clearing his mind as he crossed the courtyard to the stable, he nodded to Quatre when the blonde man paused. "Get him out of that dress," he muttered, swinging onto his horse as the pale man had readied it for him. "I'm going to take care of this castle. If he charged you extra, despite faltering in his part of the deal, then by rights we not only own this castle but the surrounding lands as well." He was speaking of the man he'd rented the manor house from, and he knew that he would get his demands. "I'll be gone till nightfall, have my door fixed by then. With a bolt for it," he added, remembering his awakening. "Or next time, you'll be cleaning up blood."
Quatre winced as he nodded quickly. He'd heard of the confrontation and as much as he sympathized with the boy in question, he understood Heero's fury. No one stood up to the man, and he wasn't eager to see Duo hurt. He still felt guilty for having done his part in the boy's kidnapping and as soon as Heero left the courtyard, he hurried to follow his orders, catching Trowa quickly. The last thing he wanted was for the oddly brave boy to try that stunt again as he was certain Heero would carry out his threats.
* * *
"Heero, you don't look well at all." Sitting as the cobalt-eyed man joined him, Wufei raised an eyebrow as he took in the intense scowl. "I would have thought your homecoming would be a joyous one. Your betrothed is quite the lady."
Snorting, Heero waved to one of the men serving as he ordered quickly before turning to his friend. "My *betrothed* is currently married to another," he said bitingly, scowling at his glass as he leaned over the table. "She is lost to me."
"What? I just saw her not three weeks ago, what has happened?" His eyes narrowed as he wondered if the girl had escaped somehow and he cursed. "She ran away, didn't she."
"No, she never left England." The black-haired man's confusion was apparent and Heero slowly forced himself to see the irony. "They took the wrong person."
"No. I don't believe it! How could they? Then...who is she? Who did they take?" Wufei's mind flew and his eyes glinted as he realized what his friend's news meant. English wasn't engaged to him, therefore, she was fair game.
"Duo Maxwell," Heero murmured, his own eyes glinting as he took perverse pleasure in his friend's shock. "The *son* of Ramsey Maxwell."
"What?! But she--" Wufei choked suddenly, coughing as he bent forward over the table. It was a moment before he recovered, and his eyes bored into Heero's. "Are you saying she is a boy?"
The slow way he said it made Heero smirk and he gave a nod. "That's right. And not just any boy, he's a Maxwell."
"Max..." He knew the name, of course he did. Everyone did who had ties with the underground and that included him. "A boy...I can't believe he's a boy..."
"Yes, well, he is." Glaring at the table, Heero shook his head. "And I'm stuck with him. I can't send him back to England, so I'm stuck."
"How could he be a boy?"
The man was starting to get on his nerves, and Heero sent him a fierce glare. "Get over it. He's a boy. Why are you having such a hard time accepting that?"
"But...he's so...beautiful." Wufei was gazing at the table, so he missed the way Heero's eyes nearly fell out of his head, they were so wide with disbelief. //A boy. I guess...it makes sense. I've never met a woman like that, one with such sense, such spirit. I...I should have known.// When he glanced up, he blinked at his friend's stunned expression, frowning. "What?"
"You think he's *beautiful*?! He's a menace! Infuriating, the epitome of a child that hasn't been taught respect."
"He's not a child," Wufei said, his mind still flying. "And he *is* beautiful. Didn't you look at him? I don't care if he isn't a girl, he's..."
"Wufei. Tell me you aren't actually thinking of--"
"Can I call on him?"
Heero nearly swallowed his tongue as he grasped the table harshly to keep himself from falling over. "What?! Are you insane?"
"Well," Wufei said, raising an eyebrow, "You obviously have no liking for him. I wouldn't mind finding out what sort of person he is. After all, it isn't often you meet a boy who makes such a lovely woman. And *I* find his spirit alluring."
"You...have gone insane." Shaking his head, Heero stared at the black-eyed man, unable to understand what he was hearing. //Alluring?! Lovely?!// Finally, he couldn't do more than wait for himself to calm. "You want to call on him. As a suitor? Duo Maxwell?"
"Well, I know it may come as a surprise to you, Heero, but I'm not getting any younger. I happen to appreciate the *boy's* distinct charms. You obviously are far too caught up with your beloved to see them, but that is understandable. Just give me leave and maybe, I can relieve you of your burden."
"Not by force." Heero blinked at his own sharp command, and scowled for a moment, the recipient of well-deserved outrage. "I apologize. That was uncalled for. He's just gotten my nerve up and I'm on edge. If you truly want me to go along with your insane wish, then I will."
"Good, tell him I'll call on him tomorrow," Wufei said, eyes glinting as he suddenly wanted to smirk. He couldn't imagine how the boy would react, but he knew it would be a sight. Still, he had been honest in what he'd told his friend, he was intrigued and his attraction wasn't the least bit diminished by the knowledge that 'English' was a boy. "I'm sure he'll be happy to hear it."
"You're being sarcastic, aren't you?" Frowning, Heero wasn't sure if the man was, but he shook his head. "I'll tell him, but I don't think he'll accept the news well."
"Hm." Wufei wasn't paying too much attention as he realized the boy *would* be glad to see him. If for no other reason than to check on the money he'd given him to invest. While he didn't like having to use such a method to get on the boy's good side, he took openings where he found them. "I look forward to this."
"You're insane..."
* * *
The castle was quiet when he entered it, and Heero moved through the front hall and up the stairs with a troubled mind. He'd known Wufei for years, and he'd thought the man had good taste when it came to women, or men, but now he doubted that taste. It was obvious to him that his friend had either been bewitched somehow, or he'd seen something Heero hadn't. Pausing as he saw Duo's door, his eyes glinted suddenly and he stepped to it, pressing lightly. Sure enough, the door was securely barred and he knew the boy wasn't taking any chances with him. //Maybe he took my warning to heart,// Heero thought, as he moved up to his own room. His door was strong and he bolted it with satisfaction as he knew there would be no way the boy could get through it. Thinking of what Duo had done to him, he felt a tiny glimmer of humor as he had to admit it had taken courage. Still, he wasn't going to let anything like that happen again.
Crossing the room, he glared at the still open hole in the ceiling for a moment before starting a fire. It would do little good, but he still did it. Despite the cold, he took off his coat and hung it on the odd dragon that stood at the corner of the mantle. Then his eyes widened as his coat promptly dipped and the wall beside his bed slid back with a dull grating sound. He'd been in castles before, and he was acquainted with the habit of building escape tunnels into the walls. With his curiosity peaked, he grasped the candle from the dresser and lit it, stepping into the dark passageway.
It obviously hadn't been used in ages and he held an arm out in front of him to keep the thick cobwebs from hitting his face. The tunnel curved briefly and he found himself moving down some stone stairs before his way was abruptly blocked. With his experience, he quickly found the release for the door, and he frowned as he found himself looking at the back of some sort of thick cloth. Touching it, he pushed forward, his eyes narrowing when dim light reached him. It was with distinct satisfaction that he viewed the room he'd accessed and he smirked as he looked to the occupied bed, letting the large tapestry fall silently behind him.
The room was much nicer than his, and he felt irritation as he stepped to the bed, eyeing the sleeping boy. If he'd felt a need for revenge, he could have taken it with ease. But he remembered his own words and simply looked at the boy, not wanting to start anything. Leaning forward so the boy was illuminated by the candle, Heero made a startling discovery and he blinked. He *was* lovely. Without a scowl, the boy's features were smooth and Heero stared at the way those long lashes stood out against his cheeks. His hair had come partly undone and it was as if he noticed it for the first time, his eyes moving to the golden glints before slipping to the boy's exposed chest. Lying on his back, Duo had an arm curved over his head, and the blankets had slipped down a bit to just below his shoulders.
//How could I have missed this? Was I *that* distracted?// Staring, Heero understood completely why Wufei had been eager to seek the boy and he nodded slowly. His friend had obviously seen a side of the boy that he hadn't and it was with very slow movements that Heero tore his eyes away when Duo sighed and shivered slightly, his arm moving beneath the blanket as he pulled them up a bit in his sleep. He hadn't really noticed, but he turned as he looked to the fireplace, seeing the dying embers. Without thinking about what he was doing, he added a few logs to the fire, watching till it caught. Looking to the boy once more, he shook his head at the thought of having failed to notice the boy's beauty. It wasn't until he lifted the tapestry that he was reminded why he didn't like the boy and his lips twitched. The lock on the outside of the hidden door had been removed.
He left the room silently as he gave himself a mental reminder to be nicer to Trowa and Quatre as they had shown great sense in removing the lock. It was obvious that the two had noticed the passageway and weren't about to keep him from having access to the boy's room. //That's why they put a bolt on the inside of his door. So he'd think he has a safe place to hide. Clever.// He returned to his room, taking a long board from the broken ceiling, and levered it against Duo's door. That way, the boy wouldn't be able to get into the passageway. Heero still intended to put a lock on his own door just in case, but he could imagine how irritated the boy would be when he tried the door and found that it wouldn't open. If, of course, he'd even noticed it. //He probably did, though. Yes, I'll bet he did.// It was with a light heart that Heero moved back to his room, and he slept surprisingly well.
* * *
TBC
--notes--
I wanted to say that there will *not* be any 5x2 in this fic. There will be 5+2, but the pairing stands as 1x2. There *will* be a 1x2 lemon, although it will be a while. I just didn't want to get anyone's hopes up or scare any 1x2 fans. The 5+2 will remain + only.