Ronin Warriors Fan Fiction ❯ Desire And Grace ❯ Secrets And Lace ( Chapter 1 )

Disclaimer: I own nothing of the troopers.

A/N: I have been working on this one for a while. So, it tends to tra lala off into no where land once in a while and change directions. Remember, comments are love =^^=

 

 

 

 

Title: Desire And Grace

Chapter 01: Secrets And Lace

By: wings

 

 

The house was pretty quiet. And now it had gotten even quieter as Shuu sat two if his friends down at the table. Both of them had a look of concern on their face. Because this was Shuu… this wasn't normal behavior for their friend. They sat and watched as the husky warrior paced the floor in front of them.

“What's this about Shuu?” Touma asked finally tired of waiting for an explanation.

Shuu stopped a moment and they could tell he wanted to say something but he didn't know how to form the words.

“What ever it is Shuu. I am sure everything will be fine in the end. You can trust us with anything you tell us.” Seiji reinforced.

Shuu nodded and took a breath to calm himself. “I saw Shin today… “

Touma and Seiji gave each other a look.

“What's so different about this time than any other time? I mean… you do spend a lot of time with him.” Touma stated in question.

“He was in the lingerie department at the store… by himself.” Shuu sputtered.

“Maybe he was getting something for his girlfriend… or browsing. There's nothing wrong with him being there Shuu.” Seiji threw out there for him.

Shuu shook his head a bit. “You know as well as I do he doesn't have a girlfriend, Seiji.”

“Shuu… you know Shin enough to know that he likes pretty things like that. He was probably just browsing like Seiji suggested… “ Touma added.

“He was holding them up to himself!” Shuu spat.

The room fell silent again.

“So you can't tell me there isn't something going on.” Shuu added more calmly.

“…Maybe he was in there to meet girls… “ Touma thought out loud.

Before Shuu could say anything in return they heard the screen door shut and then foot steps. A slightly quiet humming melody, then they saw the auburn haired boy pass by the kitchen. Almost immediately they heard everything hit a halt. Shin stepped back and peeked around the doorframe. In curiosity he joined them.

“Is everything okay?…” Shin asked as he looked over his three friends who were staring at him in return.

Shuu spoke up first in his mannerly way. “Are you into drag Shin??”

Shin's eyes widened a bit in shock. “… what?”

“I saw you today Shin. You were shopping for women's underwear…”

“Lingerie… lingerie actually… ” Touma blurted out to correct him. Then realized he had interrupted them. “But I wasn't there Shin… that's what Shuu said… “ The Archer said trying to soften his outburst.

Shin could feel himself getting angry and upset, but was trying his best to control himself. “My sister… I was shopping for my sister. I don't know what you sa-… I don't want to know what you think you saw Shuu. But you should talk to me or ask about things like that before you go around telling everyone anything.”

“Don't give me that Shin. Why wouldn't she find her own underwe-lingerie, hmm?”

“It was going to be a gift. A lot of the things we wear we share in size.” Shin said crossing his arms.

“Isn't it kind of… awkward for a brother to buy his sister lingerie?” Seiji accidentally said out loud.

“And what like any one in this house is normal. Mr. I was used to be a girl himself.” Shin stated flatly to the blonde. Making him retract and quiet.

Touma felt himself get a bit defensive. “Shin you really have no right talking to Seiji like that. It's not like he had a choice in the matter. No one was really accusing you of anything. Shuu was just upset that he as a friend didn't know something as important as what ever it is you're doing. You share everything else, why not this?”

“Maybe because I thought no one would understand. Which it turns out I would be right. And what is so bad about me buying lingerie in the first place whether I was wearing it or not. It shouldn't matter to anyone who considers themselves my friend.”

Again the room went quiet. Shin stood there defiantly. The other three didn't say a word.

“How are we supposed to trust some one who doesn't trust us?” Seiji said softly.

“We're not… “ Shuu scoffed before stomping out of the room and leaving the house.

“What? Did you sit down today and plan to pin me to the chopping block? If it isn't one issue it's another. When you figure out the next mass murder I swept under the rug… I will be in my room.” Shin said as he left disappointed in his friends.

The two sat there a few moments and thought. Everything had gone by so fast.

“I guess I should go talk to him… “ Touma said with a stretch.

“No that's alright, I will go see him before I go to bed. It will give him time to cool off.”

“Are you sure Seiji??” He asked a bit concerned.

“He doesn't mean everything he says all the time. I will be fine, but thanks.” He said with a smile.


Shin shut the door to his room and locked it. Tossing his shopping bag at the floor near the end of his bed. Giving it a long look he finally laid back with a sigh. And he didn't know when but he had fallen asleep. Getting ripped from the sleep that crept up on him by a nock at the door. He sat up and took a second to collect himself.

“Just a minute… “ He said as he got up and started for the door but took a moment to slide the bag under the bed with a foot.

And yet again the nock persisted.

“Just a second… “ Shin said as he continued on his way to the door and unlocking it.

“So now you're locking the door to?” Seiji said calmly.

“Oh, its you… I just wanted some privacy. Did you need something?” Shin said as he stood in the doorway.

“Sorry to disappoint you.”

“I didn't mean that… but really did you need something?”

“You could start with an apology.'

Making a slight groan. “Are you serious?”

Seiji slid his foot in and pushed the other a side with a bump of his hip. Walking inside with a reply. “You been really bringing home the attitude lately. But yes… I would like to hear you say you're sorry.” The blonde said as he leaned against the dresser a bit crossing his arms.

“I was the one who was getting accused. Why should I apologize to you?” Shin said as he shut the door annoyed.

“How many different ways do we need to explain to you that Shuu was only upset because you're being secretive… more than usual. That's all Shin.“

“And since when do I need to share everything with everyone?”

“You don't. But if your best friend asks what's going on… doesn't he deserve an answer?”

“Not when he goes around assuming the answer.”

“What's he supposed to do when he knows you wont tell him any way? He just needed some one to talk to Shin. We were the only ones home at the time. In a way we were dragged into this. So there's no reason for you to be upset with us over what's happening.”

Shin sat down on the bed.

“What are you hiding?” Seiji asked softly.

Shin looked at the carpet and mumbled something.

“… you mind deciphering that… “

“…Maybe I just don't want to share everything. Maybe I rather keep a few secrets to myself.

“Don't you trust us?”

Shin looked up at him.

“What are we supposed to do when you can't trust us? That scene in the kitchen… was you pushing against us. We need you and we would do anything to gain your trust. Not just because you're part of the group. But, because you're unique and we need that. No one else can bring what you are to the table. No one is out to get you, especially Shuu. He's your best friend.”

“I don't know… maybe I am just afraid everything will change.” Shin said as he held his head in his hands.

“… so, there is something then… “ Seiji said carefully and getting a nod in response.

The blonde went over and sat next to the other. Letting a hand carefully soothe his back as he tried to comfort him. “Come here… “ He added after a few moments and pulled him close to his chest.

Shin whispered. “I don't want this to change, Seiji. I don't think I could handle it if everyone looked at me differently.” He said as he let the other hold him tighter.

“Shin… “ The blonde paused a moment as he carefully ran fingers through the others tinged locks. “… What could possibly alter our view on you? You're strong and delicate. Those are a couple of things that we can rely on, trust. How or what could change that?”

Shin shut his eyes taking in a breath. For a moment he wanted to just freeze time and never let it go. But he knew Seiji was too persistent to allow such stagnancy.

In a faint voice he confessed. “…He was right…”

Seiji stopped a moment and then continued to pet him. Taking a few seconds to let everything register. “You mean… you … wear women's lingerie?”

Shin nodded too afraid to look up or say anything in return.

“You know Shin… they make lingerie for men to. Some of them are just as nice as the ones designed for women. No one could hold that against you if you did that… “

“That's not what matters and you know it.” Shin said as he pulled away sitting up.

“What do you want me to say, Shin? I am doing the best I can at the moment.”

Shin got up and stood at the end of the bed. “ I knew I shouldn't have told you.”

“I - I just don't see your interest or attraction you have with it, okay.”

“I didn't ask you to.”

“Then what was I supposed to say or do, because I have no idea what it is.”

Shin shrugged shaking his head. “I don't know, not that. Just go, okay.”

“No, you're not dismissing me that easy.”

“So, what you rather sit here and continue to make me feel worse than I already did?”

“Like I said I wasn't trying to. Can't you see I am trying?”

“Trying? Seiji you just told me to wear men's instead of women's so I wouldn't be so embarrassing.”

“With your best interest at heart. Shin, personally I don't care what you're into behind that door.” Points at his bedroom door. “So you can wear what ever you want. I rather not know what happens behind it. But when it starts to effect life outside that door. Then something needs to be said. Right now your friend is upset because you're keeping this secret from him and he knows something's up. Are you going to lie to him or are you going to tell him the truth.”

“I don't plan on telling any one anything now.”

“Are you pouting?” Seiji said as he looked at the slender warrior. Standing at the foot of the bed, arms crossed and a certain look upon his face.

“You keep changing the subject. Stop it, my answers wont change no matter when or where you ask them.”

“Okay… but I was just trying to help. I didn't mean you were embarrassing. I just meant that there are other ways for you to enjoy something with out doing it the wrong way.” Seiji bit his lip as soon as he said it. As soon as the water warrior's eyes widened a bit Seiji also put his hands over his mouth. Hoping it would keep him from his words spilling out and making things even worse.

“I give up.” Shin said as he threw his hands in the air. “Do what ever you want. Don't bother `trying' to help anymore.” He said as he bent over to grab the bag from under the bed.

“Shin that's no way to sort out this mess. What's that?… “

“Never mind. I m taking it back tomorrow morning.”

“Is that, is that what Shuu saw you buy?”

“How do I know? I didn't even know I was being watched.” Shin said as he brought it to the dresser.

Seiji sat with interest as he watched him. “Well… Can't I see it?”

“Why you made it clear it's not your thing.” Shin mocked.

“There was such a big fuss about it. I should at least see what the trouble maker is.”

Shin looked at him a moment.

“If you say anything that resembles being an asshole - “

“I wont say anything… I promise.”

Shin thought a second then waved him over. When the blonde got close enough he opened the bag. Seiji peered inside the bag but only saw a pile of cloth.

“I don't see anything other than a mess of fabric.” Seiji stated.

Shin grabbed the fabric from the bag and unfolded it: Holding it to him self. Revealing what looked like a one piece, mid thigh, lace dress with ruffled skirt and flared sleeves.

Seiji had questions. But he didn't want to say the wrong thing. So before he replied he studied it some more.

“That's lingerie??… I don't see what's supposed to be so seductive about it... or revealing.” He said as he examined it. Then added. “I don't think red is your color… “

Shin rolled his eyes. “I know you don't get it Seiji, but at least say it's nice.” Shin said disappointed.

Seiji ran some of the lace between his fingers. “It's nice… but I just can't imagine you in something like this. In fact I don't think I ever saw you in red.”

“Well like I said I am going to bring it back tomorrow. Not much sense in having two of the same thing.”

It made the blonde tear his attention away from the cloth. “What? You mean you already had this…. “

Shin nodded a bit. “Well not in this color. I already had the bottom half of this so I didn't have to bother getting that. So it wont be so bad returning this one.”

“… What color do you have?” Seiji asked not sure if he really wanted to know yet.

“Black… “

“Of course… and I suppose you're wearing the bottom right now, aren't you?” Seiji smiled trying to make a joke but it came out more serious. Making Shin nod slightly.

Seiji stood there not knowing what to say next. “… Why wear the bottom and not the top?” The words fell out of his moth before he had a chance to inspect them.

“Because Seiji, this top doesn't go with any of my pants.” Shin said in sarcasm. “Because the bottom is just plain underwear. And it's easier to hide, its not like I am going to get stripped around here or anything.”

“Oh… is that why you been locking your door??”

“It started out that way but it became a habit mostly.” Shin said starting to get comfortable with talking to him about it. Then noticed the look in his face. “Are you alright? You're looking at me like I am freak or something.”

“No-no not at all. I just… still can't imagine you in anything like this that's all. As you might think I got some gruesome images running through my head. I took you for possibly silk boxers… but this is pretty far out there. I mean I Knew about when you wore your sister's but I thought that was actually an accident…. I mean you did live with women.”

“Okay… I lost you.” Shin said as he started to put it away.

“Shin you have to understand this is still a shock for me. I accept you for everything you are, but I may need some time to adjust that's all.”

“Are you kidding me? Seiji this is exactly why I didn't want to say anything.”

“Well you can't just expect us to jump right in and say ok, this is Shin our eldest sister.”

Shin gave him a look.

“Alright, I m sorry but I don't know how to tell you this. It's just …. Skewed. Maybe if I saw you in something like this once in a while it wouldn't matter.” Which made himself think even more. “Has anyone seen you in … this?”

“Why? Does it really matter? And its not like I would prance around the house in it.”

“... I was just wondering.“ Seiji said as he continued down his road of images.

Shin watched him a moment. “You're really curious aren't you?… “

“Huh… “

“I can go put the top on… if you want. I mean if you think it will help. Then maybe we could move on in the subject.”

Seiji thought about it not sure really. “Ahhmmm…. Okay.” He finally replied.

“Okay, I'll put it on, you go lock the door.” He said as he opened a drawer and started stripping.

Seiji went over and locked the door and tested the doorknob. By the time he turned around he saw the black fabric sliding down Shin's slender frame. He watched as he took time to adjust it and turned to face him. Seiji lost his breath a brief moment, as he looked him over carefully. Pale flesh still exposed by sheer lace hugging his body in a soft embrace. And all he could manage to say was: “Black... ” He felt like an idiot.

Shin tossed his head slightly at the reply. “That's all? Wow… “ Shin said as he started to pull at the ribbon in front to untie it.

“What are you doing?” Seiji asked concerned.

“Taking it off… I knew it looked a bit odd on me but I didn't think it was that bad.” Shin said as he stood there taking his time loosening the ties. “Well at least I got a second opinion ne?” He smiled slightly as he let the ribbon fall.

“I didn't say it looked bad.” Seiji said quickly, perhaps, too quickly. But covered it by continuing to speak. “It might be your hair… “ Then realized that might not have been the brightest thing to say either.

“Then why don't you show me what's wrong.” Shin said slightly annoyed.

Seiji got closer to him: Enough to run his hands through the others hair. Letting his fingers slightly feather the auburn locks. Gently pushing strands to the side and behind his ear. Whispering to himself: “So soft… “

“It's the new conditioner I been using. I only had it for about week but it's working great.” Shin said thinking he was answering the question.

“Yes, it is… “ Seiji said as he took a step back and looked him over again.

“Better?” Shin asked after waiting patiently.

Seiji stood there another moment. “It could be better… “

“Yes, but its not like I am actually going to let anyone see me like this.”

“Why not? You showed me.”

“That's different. We can argue and say the meanest things to each other but we know we don't mean anything by it. I show some one else, they will mean it.”

“That's a shame… “ Seiji said accidentally.

“What?”

“It's a shame no one will be able to see you like this… you're beautiful.”

Shin stood there unable to think a moment.

“Don't read too much into that. Personally, you're not my type.”

“I am sorry… what?”

“You, you're too scrawny, fragile, lithe, mother hen-ish and… “

“Don't have a high IQ… right? Besides Seiji it's not like I was coming on to you or anything. I was simply trying to dissolve the argument.“ Shin said as he slipped out of the garment and slid into an oversized shirt.

“Why do you always have to go over the deep end? Oh right, you don't.” He said sarcastically. “Every time I try to talk to you. You always end up upset or … something. It's almost like you're pissed with me about some…. That's it isn't it. You're upset about Touma.”

“Why would I be upset about Touma??”

“Because I have been seeing him off and on for about four months now.”

Shin blinked and grew quiet a moment. “Well good for you.” Shin said and then started to put away his lingerie back in the drawer.

“… You didn't know?” Seiji said in shock. “I thought everyone knew. How can you not know Shin we live in the same house. Are you blind?”

“Listen… Seiji. I admit I live in my own bubble once in a while. But no one said anything to me and I never saw the two of you together.” Shin said leading him to the door. “But I am glad you two got together. It just seems right.” Shin gave him his most sincere smile.

“Then what's the problem??”

“Nothing, look I am really tired. Why don't you leave and we can pick up later. Okay?” Shin said basically shoving him out the door.

“Shin… just tell me what I did?”

“What's lithe mean?”

“What… ?”

Shin shook his head and laughed slightly. “Nothing, I'll see you later. Good night.”

“….wait… “ The blonde said before the door could close.

“Yes?… “ Shin asked as he held the door.

“Why me?… “ Seiji asked softly as he put a step closer.

Shin looked at him and the blonde could tell he was deciding whether or not to tell him. His emerald eyes sized up the one in front of him and let out a quiet sigh. Shin nodded to the other to come even closer. So that he could tell him on a more personal level.

Seiji leaned forward and Shin slid his slender fingers over his shoulder pulling him to himself. Letting them rest on the back of his neck as he let the other hand reach down and find refuge on the other's hip. Seiji tried to control his breathing at the odd closeness the water warrior had stationed.

With a soft whisper at the blonde's ear he heard. “Because on some hidden, unusual and maybe even… subconscious level. I know you can understand… “ He said as he let the hand at the other's hip, carefully slide up his waist before breaking the embrace.

Seiji felt his nerves tremor though his body, like a tingle of small waves. He swallowed dryly and tried to remain controlled. Struggling with himself to not react as he really had. Instead, he looked the other in the eyes and with his usual tone: replied. “Shin, as flattering as you are to me… “ The blonde hesitated a second as he examined the other. “… I have some one, already.” Seiji added before stepping back a bit.

Shin smiled after a brief moment. “You take everything too personally, Seiji. I had no intentions… “ He said with a slight gesture of the hand. “Good night… “ He added with a smile and shut the door on him carefully.