Gundam Wing Fan Fiction ❯ Bonds of Love ❯ Chapter 8
[ 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: 3.3K | Visits: 987 | 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: 3.3K | Visits: 987 | 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: will be 1x2, vague hints at 3x4/3+4, beginnings of 5+2
Warnings: shonen ai, slight language
Author: Arigatomina
Email: arigatoumina@hotmail.com
Bonds of Love
Part 8
The sound of hammering woke him, and Heero gave a grateful scowl as he got out of his bed, the cold not affecting him much as he dressed. It wasn't like him to sleep in, but he'd had very little sleep during his flight from England, and his body was still struggling to catch up. Once dressed, his eyes moved to the window and he sidestepped the large tub that was filled with partially melting snow. He reminded himself to have Trowa work on the roof after he finished repairs on the pitiful excuse for a stable. That was obviously what had woken him, and he nodded in satisfaction as he looked down to where the two men were at work. They were trusted allies of his, and they'd helped in his escape, following him even into seclusion.
It was as he looked down, that he saw movement at the window below him, shutters being pushed outward. //I don't have shutters. He obviously made sure his own room was repaired with no thought to mine.// Despite his thoughts, he didn't really feel angry as he was given a nice view of the boy's bare back and loose hair. //I guess he isn't as scrawny as I thought...// Duo was pouring out some water, and he didn't notice his watcher at all as he finished quickly and disappeared from view. Nodding to himself, although he wasn't sure why, Heero slowly moved back from the window, crossing the room with rapid steps as he started his day.
* * *
The sound of soft steps brought his gaze up as the longhaired boy made his way downstairs. He'd dropped his female disguise, and Heero found himself frowning at the way the boy looked. The clothing he wore was obviously something of Quatre's, and since the blonde hadn't had much to offer, they were rather pathetic. Still, the boy didn't seem too bothered by his tawdry appearance, his long hair combed back into a neat braid and his head held high as his violet eyes met Heero evenly. He didn't speak as he moved to the fire, and Heero smirked at the way the boy sniffed at the awful fare. Since he was being ignored, he decided to remind his guest of his presence, remembering the message Wufei had asked him to give.
Duo didn't react as he felt and heard the man come to stand beside him, and it wasn't until Heero leaned against the small table he was at that he glanced over. He had been cutting some of the thick bread so he could eat that rather than the slop, and he paused. Raising an eyebrow, he kept himself from glaring as he waited.
"You know, I'm surprised. Those clothes seem fitting on you. Does this mean you're going to play the servant now? I did so well enough to fool you." He wasn't sure *why* he felt the need to irritate the boy, but Heero guessed it was the haughty way Duo was staring at him. Then his breath caught as the boy moved suddenly and he jerked his hand back with very wide eyes. The long knife had nearly sliced off two of his fingers and he couldn't believe the boy as Duo continued to cut, mindless of his presence.
"It's easy for *you* to talk," Duo muttered, glaring down at the cutting board as he took some bread and picked up a plate. He moved to the table and stood as he knew his appetite was gone, the sound of himself being followed irritating him. It wasn't that he really minded being dressed in rags, but it infuriated him that Heero would mock him. After all, it was his fault. He was certain that if it had been Relena the man would have decked her out in the finest of clothing. "I'm sure your clothes cost at least two sovereigns. Gold even." Met with silence, he looked up slowly, his eyes narrowing at the way Heero was staring at him. Then he glared suddenly as he saw those cobalt eyes sweep over his form. "Are you looking for a replacement for your beloved Relena?" he demanded, his tone dripping with sarcasm.
"That would be impossible for you," Heero returned, placing his back to the boy. There was no way he'd admit that he'd been seriously looking at the boy, and the suggestion had a certain merit. But the boy's words also had his eyes narrowing as he remembered his former betrothed. They'd only been engaged for a month, but he'd found the girl to be quiet and sweet, unobtrusive in her passive nature. She was absolutely nothing like the spitfire boy. A few minutes passed as he stared into the fire, and then the sound of bristles brushing the floor had him turning. At first he was doubtful as he watched the boy sweep, but then he smirked. "It's good to know you're keeping busy," he commented, his smirk widening when those violet eyes glared, but Duo didn't look up.
//Jerk.// While he refused to grace that snide comment with a response, Duo's eyes narrowed more and he sped up his movements. It wasn't long before he brought up a cloud of dust that had even him blinking, but he continued when he noticed Heero's expression. The man coughed roughly, glaring at him as he waved a hand in front of his face.
"Enough," Heero growled, clearing his throat as the boy stopped and turned to face him. "I really have no idea what Wufei sees in you. I should have told him not to bother, you're intolerable."
"What are you talking about?" Duo demanded. He crossed his arms over his chest as he stared at the man with suspicion, having set the broom aside.
"The fool wants to call on you. Though for the life of me, I can't figure out what he'd want with a boy like you." He'd intended to irritate him, and he thought he'd succeeded when those violet eyes glared suddenly. Then the boy's expression cleared and he took on a thoughtful appearance as his eyes dropped to the floor.
"Does he? Wow, that's something I *definitely* wasn't expecting. But..." Duo continued to stare down at the floor, then a small glint rose in his eyes. //He's probably using this as an excuse to give me my money. After all, it's been a month and he did say he'd come in a month. I'll have to congratulate him on his methods, he has Heero baffled.//
The longhaired boy smirked suddenly and Heero felt himself growing wary and curious. "I take it you don't have a problem with that?" He tried not to let his surprise filter through, but he had fully expected the boy to get furious at the news. Instead, Duo was actually smiling and he blinked at how nice he looked with a happy expression.
"Not at all, Heero," Duo said cheerfully. "When's he coming?"
"Today..." the man said slowly, taken back by the boy's seeming excitement.
"Oh, I'd better hurry then." Still smiling, Duo turned abruptly as he headed for his room, pausing when the door opened. He caught sight of Trowa and nodded to the tall man, ignoring his wary green eyes. "Would you do me a favor, Trowa? I'd like to try out that brass tub in my room. Could you bring up some water for me? Please?"
"Of course," Trowa said, his tone void of the surprise he felt. It was the first time the boy had asked him to do something for him, and the 'please' almost threw him off guard. "I'll have Quatre help."
"Thanks a lot," Duo grinned, turning to move up the stairs with quick steps. "You guys are so sweet. It *almost* makes me regret the hell I put you through."
Trowa blinked as he heard a snort from Heero, but his dark-haired friend had his back turned and he couldn't see his face. Wondering what he'd missed, he stepped outside to find the blonde.
* * *
When the captain arrived, he didn't come alone, a large man was seated in the back of the wagon near some trunks. Spotting Heero, Wufei gave a sharp nod and a disapproving frown when his friend snorted and shook his head. "What?"
"You," Heero murmured, not hiding his mirth. The black-haired man was dressed very nicely, his white shirt accentuating his form beneath the long white coat he wore. It was obvious he was serious about courting the boy and Heero couldn't help but be amused by the sight of the man's chef in the wagon. Still, it would be nice to have a break from the food they'd been living on, and he waved Wufei inside. "Did you really have to dress up for him? I mean, it's not like it'll make a difference."
"What do you mean?" Wufei frowned, stepping in to stand next to the table as he looked around. "Didn't you tell him I was coming? Where is he?"
"I told him. He's upstairs. But don't be too surprised if he comes down equipped with something dangerous. I've never seen anyone more spiteful and unreasonable."
"I am sure he isn't as bad as you put on," Wufei said, his eyes shining as he watched the stairs, waiting eagerly. "Put yourself in his shoes. I see no reason for him to be *courteous* to you."
"And you aren't also to blame?" Heero muttered, raising an eyebrow. "You brought him here. All I did was attempt to save my betrothed from that *man*...Roland."
"I have been thinking of that." His voice softened as if he was thinking aloud, and Wufei kept his gaze off his friend as he wondered if he could tell him without angering the man. "I wonder if you didn't go to get her out of a need for revenge rather than love. After all, she *did* marry another, and so soon after your departure. She didn't even mourn you for more than a week."
Heero glared as he shook his head, denying the accusation. "It was Edward, I'm sure of it. She never would have agreed if he hadn't forced her to."
"If you..." Wufei's voice trailed off as he caught movement at the top of the stairs and he turned quickly, his black eyes glinting as he caught sight of Duo. While he didn't approve of the boy's clothing, he appreciated the sparkle in those wide, violet eyes. He stepped forward, having followed the boy's progress, and took Duo's hand. Raising it to his lips, he smiled as Duo blinked and brushed the smooth skin before relinquishing it. "I admit, you had me completely fooled with your disguise, but you are still the most beautiful creature I have ever seen."
//He's taking it to the extreme,// Duo thought, his eyes widening at the sincere quality in the man's voice. But he had to admit, it was slightly flattering to imagine he was speaking the truth and he decided to get into the game as he spotted Heero's intense glare. "You don't seem upset by my trickery," he said softly, managing to look tentative despite the snort from the man who stood near the table.
"Not at all. It is intriguing to meet such an ingenious young man, such as yourself. I never even suspected, but I am not the least bit bothered. Your beauty remains no matter what you dress as."
//I'm going to be sick.// Heero didn't speak as he turned abruptly, and he grabbed his coat, marching toward the door. There was no way he was going to stick around and watch his previously wise friend falling all over the boy.
"Are you leaving, Heero?" It was hard not to smile as the man flinched and walked faster, but Duo managed when Wufei looked glad.
"Do not fear, Heero. I promise to take good care of him in your absence." Smirking, Wufei watched as the man left, then blinked when Duo laughed suddenly. The boy's voice made him smile. "He didn't look happy, did he."
"Forget about him," Duo said, gesturing toward the table. "I congratulate you on your marvelous ruse. I almost believed you were seriously calling on me for a minute there."
"But Duo, I am." The boy stopped abruptly and stared at him, and Wufei shook his head. "I find myself drawn to you. I *am* serious in my intent. I wish to call upon you."
"I..."
"Here." Stepping around the boy, he pulled out a chair. "I'm sure you wish to know how your investment is going, I'd be more than happy to tell you now that Heero is away."
"Wufei..." Duo blinked slowly as he was gently pushed down into the chair, and he couldn't think of how he should react as the black-haired man sat down across from him. "You...don't really..."
"Yes, I do." He wouldn't let himself smirk at the boy's shock, but only because he looked so lovely with his wide eyes filled with confusion. "Now, then, about your investment..."
* * *
It was very late by the time he returned to the castle, and Heero put away his stallion before entering. Since he'd purposely waited until it had grown late, he was surprised to spot a form standing near the fire, the glints from the person's hair making him recognize Duo. The boy had a blanket wrapped around his shoulders, and he turned slowly as Heero shut the door. The man paused when he saw the dull look in those normally expressive eyes, and he frowned as he wondered what had happened during his absence. "What's wrong? Why are you up?"
"I had a nightmare," Duo said, his voice quiet as he shook his head and pulled the blanket closer to him. "I dreamt that my father was held prisoner somewhere and he was being tortured...with...." Shaking his head again, he closed his mouth, the horrible visions skirting behind his eyes as he stared at the fire. He didn't want to see those things again. Never had he considered himself weak, but the dream had shaken him badly, it had seemed so real.
"It was a dream." This comment didn't seem to help as the boy glared at him, but Heero was satisfied that those violet eyes were shining again. "You shouldn't get upset over a dream."
"Well," Duo muttered, his eyes narrowing as he looked at the man. "I'm sure you're used to seeing people suffer, a murderer wouldn't be bothered by nightmares."
"I didn't kill him."
He blinked at Heero's calmness, surprised that there wasn't any defensiveness to be heard, just simple honesty. "Then why were you named a traitor?"
"Edward lied. I told you before, I'm not a traitor. I had already left when the queen's guard died. My only crime was forgetting to get my gloves before I left."
"You're telling the truth." Duo was certain of it, and he blinked sharply as he felt a rush of guilt at how his uncle had sentenced the man to death. "But why would Edward lie like that...? I can't believe he'd do that."
"He did." Heero's eyes dropped suddenly as he noticed the rich carpet the boy was pacing over, and he glared as he realized where it must have come from. "I see Wufei gave you a gift, how kind of him."
The snide comment made Duo's back stiffen, and he abruptly tossed away any regrets he had over condemning the man in his mind. "Yes, it *was* kind of him."
"And you were forced to meet him dressed in rags," Heero continued, ignoring the boy as he remembered the way Wufei had kissed his hand. "I suppose I'll have to do something about that. I'll take you to the clothier's tomorrow."
Not sure if the man was mocking him or not, Duo stared at him with uncertainty. "Thank you. I should tell you, I've hired Wufei's chef. The food here is atrocious, and he is an excellent cook."
Turning, Heero glared suddenly as he realized the boy hadn't access to his funds. "And what did you pay him with?" he asked, his tone insulting. "Favors?"
"You're just worried about your precious money," Duo glared, stepping forward as he tried to express his anger at the accusation. "It was very kind of him to let us have use of his personal chef."
"You fool. He didn't do it out of *kindness*." Glaring, Heero closed the distance between himself and the boy, his cobalt eyes blazing as Duo didn't so much as flinch. "Can't you see he means to make you his lover?"
"As his husband!" Duo cried, his face reddening. "He would *never* insult me like that!" Forgetting the blanket, his hand curled into a fist and he suddenly launched himself forward, mindless of any danger as he was consumed by fury. To have the man insult Wufei, who'd been nothing by the epitome of politeness was too much.
The sudden attack nearly got to him, but Heero managed to catch the enraged boy's wrists, holding them tight as he stared into those furious eyes. Then he looked down, his own fury rising when he saw the boy's unclothed state. He wasn't wearing a shirt, and his long hair was free as it trailed down his back, slight waves pronounced in the firelight. The boy didn't seem to care if he was covered or not as he struggled to hit him, and Heero gnashed his teeth at the thought of Duo's displaying such a sight. //And I bet he showed *much* more to Wufei.// Jerking the boy's wrists, Heero drew him close, his eyes blazing into Duo's. "Cover yourself," he snarled, giving the boy a shake when those violet eyes widened suddenly and the boy ceased his struggles. "Do you want me to take you? I went to England for a bride." His voice had lowered, and he nearly hissed the words as Duo's eyes seemed to fill his pale face. "But instead, I got *you*. Now I have needs that can easily be satisfied and if you insist on playing the whore, I'll treat you as such!"
Duo stumbled as he was suddenly released, and he grabbed his blanket quickly, holding it in front of him. Heero had turned, and was already halfway up the stairs by the time his horrified mind got over the man's words. Then it hit him that he'd just been threatened with rape and his fury warred with his fear, the slight shiver making him even angrier. //How *dare* he?! The bastard!// His gaze didn't shift until Heero was lost from sight, and he slowly tried to calm his rapid heart as he wrapped the blanket around him again, his movements stilted. The sound of a heavy door being slammed echoed and he suddenly bolted for his room, barring the door behind him. While he was furious, he couldn't forget the way Heero had looked and he propped a chair against the door for added protection. It was hours before he slept.
* * *
TBC
Category: Yaoi, AU, Gundam Wing, fusion with a book
Pairings: will be 1x2, vague hints at 3x4/3+4, beginnings of 5+2
Warnings: shonen ai, slight language
Author: Arigatomina
Email: arigatoumina@hotmail.com
Bonds of Love
Part 8
The sound of hammering woke him, and Heero gave a grateful scowl as he got out of his bed, the cold not affecting him much as he dressed. It wasn't like him to sleep in, but he'd had very little sleep during his flight from England, and his body was still struggling to catch up. Once dressed, his eyes moved to the window and he sidestepped the large tub that was filled with partially melting snow. He reminded himself to have Trowa work on the roof after he finished repairs on the pitiful excuse for a stable. That was obviously what had woken him, and he nodded in satisfaction as he looked down to where the two men were at work. They were trusted allies of his, and they'd helped in his escape, following him even into seclusion.
It was as he looked down, that he saw movement at the window below him, shutters being pushed outward. //I don't have shutters. He obviously made sure his own room was repaired with no thought to mine.// Despite his thoughts, he didn't really feel angry as he was given a nice view of the boy's bare back and loose hair. //I guess he isn't as scrawny as I thought...// Duo was pouring out some water, and he didn't notice his watcher at all as he finished quickly and disappeared from view. Nodding to himself, although he wasn't sure why, Heero slowly moved back from the window, crossing the room with rapid steps as he started his day.
* * *
The sound of soft steps brought his gaze up as the longhaired boy made his way downstairs. He'd dropped his female disguise, and Heero found himself frowning at the way the boy looked. The clothing he wore was obviously something of Quatre's, and since the blonde hadn't had much to offer, they were rather pathetic. Still, the boy didn't seem too bothered by his tawdry appearance, his long hair combed back into a neat braid and his head held high as his violet eyes met Heero evenly. He didn't speak as he moved to the fire, and Heero smirked at the way the boy sniffed at the awful fare. Since he was being ignored, he decided to remind his guest of his presence, remembering the message Wufei had asked him to give.
Duo didn't react as he felt and heard the man come to stand beside him, and it wasn't until Heero leaned against the small table he was at that he glanced over. He had been cutting some of the thick bread so he could eat that rather than the slop, and he paused. Raising an eyebrow, he kept himself from glaring as he waited.
"You know, I'm surprised. Those clothes seem fitting on you. Does this mean you're going to play the servant now? I did so well enough to fool you." He wasn't sure *why* he felt the need to irritate the boy, but Heero guessed it was the haughty way Duo was staring at him. Then his breath caught as the boy moved suddenly and he jerked his hand back with very wide eyes. The long knife had nearly sliced off two of his fingers and he couldn't believe the boy as Duo continued to cut, mindless of his presence.
"It's easy for *you* to talk," Duo muttered, glaring down at the cutting board as he took some bread and picked up a plate. He moved to the table and stood as he knew his appetite was gone, the sound of himself being followed irritating him. It wasn't that he really minded being dressed in rags, but it infuriated him that Heero would mock him. After all, it was his fault. He was certain that if it had been Relena the man would have decked her out in the finest of clothing. "I'm sure your clothes cost at least two sovereigns. Gold even." Met with silence, he looked up slowly, his eyes narrowing at the way Heero was staring at him. Then he glared suddenly as he saw those cobalt eyes sweep over his form. "Are you looking for a replacement for your beloved Relena?" he demanded, his tone dripping with sarcasm.
"That would be impossible for you," Heero returned, placing his back to the boy. There was no way he'd admit that he'd been seriously looking at the boy, and the suggestion had a certain merit. But the boy's words also had his eyes narrowing as he remembered his former betrothed. They'd only been engaged for a month, but he'd found the girl to be quiet and sweet, unobtrusive in her passive nature. She was absolutely nothing like the spitfire boy. A few minutes passed as he stared into the fire, and then the sound of bristles brushing the floor had him turning. At first he was doubtful as he watched the boy sweep, but then he smirked. "It's good to know you're keeping busy," he commented, his smirk widening when those violet eyes glared, but Duo didn't look up.
//Jerk.// While he refused to grace that snide comment with a response, Duo's eyes narrowed more and he sped up his movements. It wasn't long before he brought up a cloud of dust that had even him blinking, but he continued when he noticed Heero's expression. The man coughed roughly, glaring at him as he waved a hand in front of his face.
"Enough," Heero growled, clearing his throat as the boy stopped and turned to face him. "I really have no idea what Wufei sees in you. I should have told him not to bother, you're intolerable."
"What are you talking about?" Duo demanded. He crossed his arms over his chest as he stared at the man with suspicion, having set the broom aside.
"The fool wants to call on you. Though for the life of me, I can't figure out what he'd want with a boy like you." He'd intended to irritate him, and he thought he'd succeeded when those violet eyes glared suddenly. Then the boy's expression cleared and he took on a thoughtful appearance as his eyes dropped to the floor.
"Does he? Wow, that's something I *definitely* wasn't expecting. But..." Duo continued to stare down at the floor, then a small glint rose in his eyes. //He's probably using this as an excuse to give me my money. After all, it's been a month and he did say he'd come in a month. I'll have to congratulate him on his methods, he has Heero baffled.//
The longhaired boy smirked suddenly and Heero felt himself growing wary and curious. "I take it you don't have a problem with that?" He tried not to let his surprise filter through, but he had fully expected the boy to get furious at the news. Instead, Duo was actually smiling and he blinked at how nice he looked with a happy expression.
"Not at all, Heero," Duo said cheerfully. "When's he coming?"
"Today..." the man said slowly, taken back by the boy's seeming excitement.
"Oh, I'd better hurry then." Still smiling, Duo turned abruptly as he headed for his room, pausing when the door opened. He caught sight of Trowa and nodded to the tall man, ignoring his wary green eyes. "Would you do me a favor, Trowa? I'd like to try out that brass tub in my room. Could you bring up some water for me? Please?"
"Of course," Trowa said, his tone void of the surprise he felt. It was the first time the boy had asked him to do something for him, and the 'please' almost threw him off guard. "I'll have Quatre help."
"Thanks a lot," Duo grinned, turning to move up the stairs with quick steps. "You guys are so sweet. It *almost* makes me regret the hell I put you through."
Trowa blinked as he heard a snort from Heero, but his dark-haired friend had his back turned and he couldn't see his face. Wondering what he'd missed, he stepped outside to find the blonde.
* * *
When the captain arrived, he didn't come alone, a large man was seated in the back of the wagon near some trunks. Spotting Heero, Wufei gave a sharp nod and a disapproving frown when his friend snorted and shook his head. "What?"
"You," Heero murmured, not hiding his mirth. The black-haired man was dressed very nicely, his white shirt accentuating his form beneath the long white coat he wore. It was obvious he was serious about courting the boy and Heero couldn't help but be amused by the sight of the man's chef in the wagon. Still, it would be nice to have a break from the food they'd been living on, and he waved Wufei inside. "Did you really have to dress up for him? I mean, it's not like it'll make a difference."
"What do you mean?" Wufei frowned, stepping in to stand next to the table as he looked around. "Didn't you tell him I was coming? Where is he?"
"I told him. He's upstairs. But don't be too surprised if he comes down equipped with something dangerous. I've never seen anyone more spiteful and unreasonable."
"I am sure he isn't as bad as you put on," Wufei said, his eyes shining as he watched the stairs, waiting eagerly. "Put yourself in his shoes. I see no reason for him to be *courteous* to you."
"And you aren't also to blame?" Heero muttered, raising an eyebrow. "You brought him here. All I did was attempt to save my betrothed from that *man*...Roland."
"I have been thinking of that." His voice softened as if he was thinking aloud, and Wufei kept his gaze off his friend as he wondered if he could tell him without angering the man. "I wonder if you didn't go to get her out of a need for revenge rather than love. After all, she *did* marry another, and so soon after your departure. She didn't even mourn you for more than a week."
Heero glared as he shook his head, denying the accusation. "It was Edward, I'm sure of it. She never would have agreed if he hadn't forced her to."
"If you..." Wufei's voice trailed off as he caught movement at the top of the stairs and he turned quickly, his black eyes glinting as he caught sight of Duo. While he didn't approve of the boy's clothing, he appreciated the sparkle in those wide, violet eyes. He stepped forward, having followed the boy's progress, and took Duo's hand. Raising it to his lips, he smiled as Duo blinked and brushed the smooth skin before relinquishing it. "I admit, you had me completely fooled with your disguise, but you are still the most beautiful creature I have ever seen."
//He's taking it to the extreme,// Duo thought, his eyes widening at the sincere quality in the man's voice. But he had to admit, it was slightly flattering to imagine he was speaking the truth and he decided to get into the game as he spotted Heero's intense glare. "You don't seem upset by my trickery," he said softly, managing to look tentative despite the snort from the man who stood near the table.
"Not at all. It is intriguing to meet such an ingenious young man, such as yourself. I never even suspected, but I am not the least bit bothered. Your beauty remains no matter what you dress as."
//I'm going to be sick.// Heero didn't speak as he turned abruptly, and he grabbed his coat, marching toward the door. There was no way he was going to stick around and watch his previously wise friend falling all over the boy.
"Are you leaving, Heero?" It was hard not to smile as the man flinched and walked faster, but Duo managed when Wufei looked glad.
"Do not fear, Heero. I promise to take good care of him in your absence." Smirking, Wufei watched as the man left, then blinked when Duo laughed suddenly. The boy's voice made him smile. "He didn't look happy, did he."
"Forget about him," Duo said, gesturing toward the table. "I congratulate you on your marvelous ruse. I almost believed you were seriously calling on me for a minute there."
"But Duo, I am." The boy stopped abruptly and stared at him, and Wufei shook his head. "I find myself drawn to you. I *am* serious in my intent. I wish to call upon you."
"I..."
"Here." Stepping around the boy, he pulled out a chair. "I'm sure you wish to know how your investment is going, I'd be more than happy to tell you now that Heero is away."
"Wufei..." Duo blinked slowly as he was gently pushed down into the chair, and he couldn't think of how he should react as the black-haired man sat down across from him. "You...don't really..."
"Yes, I do." He wouldn't let himself smirk at the boy's shock, but only because he looked so lovely with his wide eyes filled with confusion. "Now, then, about your investment..."
* * *
It was very late by the time he returned to the castle, and Heero put away his stallion before entering. Since he'd purposely waited until it had grown late, he was surprised to spot a form standing near the fire, the glints from the person's hair making him recognize Duo. The boy had a blanket wrapped around his shoulders, and he turned slowly as Heero shut the door. The man paused when he saw the dull look in those normally expressive eyes, and he frowned as he wondered what had happened during his absence. "What's wrong? Why are you up?"
"I had a nightmare," Duo said, his voice quiet as he shook his head and pulled the blanket closer to him. "I dreamt that my father was held prisoner somewhere and he was being tortured...with...." Shaking his head again, he closed his mouth, the horrible visions skirting behind his eyes as he stared at the fire. He didn't want to see those things again. Never had he considered himself weak, but the dream had shaken him badly, it had seemed so real.
"It was a dream." This comment didn't seem to help as the boy glared at him, but Heero was satisfied that those violet eyes were shining again. "You shouldn't get upset over a dream."
"Well," Duo muttered, his eyes narrowing as he looked at the man. "I'm sure you're used to seeing people suffer, a murderer wouldn't be bothered by nightmares."
"I didn't kill him."
He blinked at Heero's calmness, surprised that there wasn't any defensiveness to be heard, just simple honesty. "Then why were you named a traitor?"
"Edward lied. I told you before, I'm not a traitor. I had already left when the queen's guard died. My only crime was forgetting to get my gloves before I left."
"You're telling the truth." Duo was certain of it, and he blinked sharply as he felt a rush of guilt at how his uncle had sentenced the man to death. "But why would Edward lie like that...? I can't believe he'd do that."
"He did." Heero's eyes dropped suddenly as he noticed the rich carpet the boy was pacing over, and he glared as he realized where it must have come from. "I see Wufei gave you a gift, how kind of him."
The snide comment made Duo's back stiffen, and he abruptly tossed away any regrets he had over condemning the man in his mind. "Yes, it *was* kind of him."
"And you were forced to meet him dressed in rags," Heero continued, ignoring the boy as he remembered the way Wufei had kissed his hand. "I suppose I'll have to do something about that. I'll take you to the clothier's tomorrow."
Not sure if the man was mocking him or not, Duo stared at him with uncertainty. "Thank you. I should tell you, I've hired Wufei's chef. The food here is atrocious, and he is an excellent cook."
Turning, Heero glared suddenly as he realized the boy hadn't access to his funds. "And what did you pay him with?" he asked, his tone insulting. "Favors?"
"You're just worried about your precious money," Duo glared, stepping forward as he tried to express his anger at the accusation. "It was very kind of him to let us have use of his personal chef."
"You fool. He didn't do it out of *kindness*." Glaring, Heero closed the distance between himself and the boy, his cobalt eyes blazing as Duo didn't so much as flinch. "Can't you see he means to make you his lover?"
"As his husband!" Duo cried, his face reddening. "He would *never* insult me like that!" Forgetting the blanket, his hand curled into a fist and he suddenly launched himself forward, mindless of any danger as he was consumed by fury. To have the man insult Wufei, who'd been nothing by the epitome of politeness was too much.
The sudden attack nearly got to him, but Heero managed to catch the enraged boy's wrists, holding them tight as he stared into those furious eyes. Then he looked down, his own fury rising when he saw the boy's unclothed state. He wasn't wearing a shirt, and his long hair was free as it trailed down his back, slight waves pronounced in the firelight. The boy didn't seem to care if he was covered or not as he struggled to hit him, and Heero gnashed his teeth at the thought of Duo's displaying such a sight. //And I bet he showed *much* more to Wufei.// Jerking the boy's wrists, Heero drew him close, his eyes blazing into Duo's. "Cover yourself," he snarled, giving the boy a shake when those violet eyes widened suddenly and the boy ceased his struggles. "Do you want me to take you? I went to England for a bride." His voice had lowered, and he nearly hissed the words as Duo's eyes seemed to fill his pale face. "But instead, I got *you*. Now I have needs that can easily be satisfied and if you insist on playing the whore, I'll treat you as such!"
Duo stumbled as he was suddenly released, and he grabbed his blanket quickly, holding it in front of him. Heero had turned, and was already halfway up the stairs by the time his horrified mind got over the man's words. Then it hit him that he'd just been threatened with rape and his fury warred with his fear, the slight shiver making him even angrier. //How *dare* he?! The bastard!// His gaze didn't shift until Heero was lost from sight, and he slowly tried to calm his rapid heart as he wrapped the blanket around him again, his movements stilted. The sound of a heavy door being slammed echoed and he suddenly bolted for his room, barring the door behind him. While he was furious, he couldn't forget the way Heero had looked and he propped a chair against the door for added protection. It was hours before he slept.
* * *
TBC