Building Bridges

Aya was busy putting together an arrangement for a customer when a glimpse of blond hair caused him to turn his head in expectation. The breath he didn’t know he’d been holding, along with the tug on his heart, released when Aya realized it was Chloé. This happened frequently. When the light hit Chloé’s hair just right, combined with the scent of flowers in the air, Aya’s mind played tricks on him that his lover had returned.

“Aya, are you almost finished with the arrangement for Mrs. Simpson? She just happens to be here early to collect it if it’s ready,” Chloé said, interrupting Aya’s thoughts.

“I’ll be done in just a few minutes, Chloé,” Aya replied while his gaze lingered on the blond. Chloé nodded his head in acknowledgement before returning to the customer.

This time Aya’s thoughts drifted in a different direction. Now that he’d somewhat forgiven himself for leaving Yohji behind, Aya had allowed the odd fantasy here and there, imagining what it would be like to kiss Chloé and to have Chloé kiss him.

Aya shook his head and went back to the arrangement. Trouble was, he didn’t know how to act on his feelings and, for all Aya knew, Chloé could be completely straight. One thing was certain, the man wasn’t gay. Not with the way he flirted with Mihirogi and many of the attractive women who frequented the shop. So much like another blond he knew.

Which brought Aya right back to Yohji, who was never far from his thoughts. Not a day went by that Aya didn’t think of him, miss him, and long for him. Aya hoped Yohji was happy and had finally found the peace he’d been seeking. He also hoped that Yohji would forgive him for allowing himself to be attracted to another man after Aya’d promised to wait for him. If Yohji were by his side, there would be no question of Aya even noticing someone else, but that wasn’t the case. Chloé had become a friend since Aya’d joined Krypton Brand nearly a year ago. Aya found he enjoyed Chloé’s quiet company and sharp wit.

Thinking of Chloé and Yohji, he realized that the two men were so alike, yet so very different. The similarities were what caught Aya’s awareness in the beginning, but it was the differences that held his attention. No one could ever replace Yohji in his heart, and Chloé would have held little attraction for him if he’d only been a copy of Yohji. But like Yohji, Aya felt he could trust Chloé with his life and frequently did. He felt comfortable talking with Chloé, and Chloé made him feel as if he weren’t so alone in the world.

Chloé and Yohji were the only two people that Aya had ever opened up to about his personal life, and Aya had Yohji to thank for that. The ice that had been forming around his heart would have hardened beyond all hope of thawing had Yohji not melted it when he had. Once gone, Aya had never been able to rebuild the wall in quite the same manner. He didn’t know whether it was a blessing or a curse, but Aya would never regret his time with Yohji. Aya just wished he’d not let his jealousy and anger ruin those last few weeks when they could have been together during that disastrous final mission.

With a sigh, Aya finished the arrangement and took it to the front counter for Chloé to ring up. Aya started walking back to the workroom when Chloé said, “Aya, this is indeed a lovely arrangement. You have a keen eye for flowers.”

A very small smile appeared on Aya’s face when he looked at Chloé and saw the sincerity in his eyes. He nodded and said, “Thank you, Chloé. You do, too.”

When Aya returned to the table to start the next arrangement, he thought about how lucky he was to be alive. To have the opportunity to find new friends who helped fill the emptiness in his heart. He hoped that someday the ache would fade to a bearable measure and that, when he thought of Yohji, it would be without the lingering pain he felt today. For now, he chose to embrace the hurt as it let him know that at least once in his life, he had loved and been loved in return.

*****

Chloé sighed for the umpteenth time as he glanced first at the clock and then at the open doorway leading to the workroom. The shop had hit its afternoon lull, leaving him without any customers to which to cater, flatter and generally flirt with for fun and amusement. Michel was sweeping the shop while humming some popular tune, and Ken was off making the last of the day’s deliveries. He was beginning to wonder what happened to Free when the tall man suddenly appeared beside him.

“You want to go into the back,” Free stated; the words would have been a question for anyone else. “Go. I’ll watch the register.” Smiling back at his friend and teammate, Chloé gave a silent thanks to Free’s uncanny knack for knowing things without Chloé having to voice them. Slipping off the stool, he headed for the workroom, pausing just inside to spy on its only occupant: Aya.

Aya was putting the final touches on the last arrangement he needed to finish for the day when he noticed someone in the doorway. Not really concerned with which of his teammates it was, he continued working with the flowers, but as long moments went by without anyone saying a word, Aya looked up in curiosity.

“Don’t let me interrupt you. I’m just enjoying the view,” Chloé said, flashing Aya a smile as he leaned against the wall beside the doorway. “That your last arrangement for the day? It’s quite lovely.” Pushing away from the wall, he walked over to stand just behind Aya, looking over his shoulder at the completed arrangement. Leaning forward, Chloé made one little adjustment to the tilt of a flower. “There, that’s better, don’t you think?” he asked.

Aya ignored the flirting as he always did, but he couldn’t help shivering a little when he felt Chloé’s breath against his ear. He shifted away from Chloé and finally met his eyes. “I don’t really see much difference, but if it makes you happy, it can stay there. And yes, this is my last arrangement. Was there something you wanted?”

Chloé smiled again and stood up straight. “Well, I was just thinking... we don’t have a mission tonight and Ken has already claimed the television for his football game. I’m rather bored with the novel I’ve been reading, and it occurred to me that there was an interesting foreign film playing at one of the theaters nearby that you might be enticed to see. That being the case, perhaps you might also considering having dinner with me first? I know this delightful little Italian bistro with the most exquisite tiramisu.”

Aya looked at Chloé in confusion. Granted, they sometimes did something together after work, but it was usually along the lines of discussing the latest book they’d read or a drink at a pub with the rest of the adult team members. This was so reminiscent of when Yohji would take him out on one of their rare dates that it caused a sharp pain in Aya’s chest at the thought.

Realizing that Chloé was watching him closely and waiting for an answer, Aya forced himself to ask, “What about one of your girlfriends? Wouldn’t you have a better time with them, or did your date get cancelled at the last minute?”

Chloé’s expression softened in understanding as he listened to Aya. The smile never left his face as he shook his head slowly from side to side. “I’m not seeing anyone, Aya. It pains me greatly that you haven’t even noticed my continued presence about the house during the evenings. Alas, that is my luck, isn’t it?” Taking a step back, Chloé executed a smooth if over-exaggerated bow. “I would be quite honored if you would accompany me for dinner and a movie.”

If Aya weren’t so perplexed he might have smiled a little bit at Chloé’s actions. As it was, he was mulling the offer over in his head. It had been a while since he’d enjoyed a good foreign film, and knowing Chloé’s tastes by now, he knew it would be good. It was better than sitting up in his room brooding, which was what he would do after all his earlier reminiscing.

Aya said quietly, “Dinner and a movie sounds like a very pleasant way to spend the evening. Thank you for the invitation. What time do you want to leave?”

“The film starts at 8:30, so perhaps dinner at 7:00? The bistro is only a short drive from here and the theater is close by so we won’t have to rush from one place to the other,” Chloé replied, not bothering to hide his pleasure at Aya’s acceptance. He continued to smile back at his friend, admiring the way Aya’s red hair caressed the side of his face. Aya’d been letting his hair grow out and Chloé very much approved. Ken had told him that Aya once had hair down past his waist, and Chloé thought he’d give up almost anything to see that one day. Of course, the thought of Aya naked with long hair flowing down his back was something he would have given anything to see.

Realizing that his mind was wandering into dangerous territory, Chloé quickly dragged it back to reality, but not before he found his fingers lightly brushing the bangs back from Aya’s forehead. “Well then, if we’re both agreed, I’ll return to the front. Free’s up there now, but you know how he can be around the customers. We’ll meet in the foyer at 7:00?”

Aya looked at Chloé in surprise when he felt Chloé’s fingers in his hair, then his heart clenched as he remembered Yohji doing the same on many occasions. Why was it so hard for him to move beyond Yohji? Aya didn’t think he’d ever be able to leave his past behind. He shook his head to clear his thoughts and said, “That’s fine, Chloé.”

Chloé’s smile faltered as he watched Aya for a moment longer. “Thank you, Aya,” he said at last and turned away, heading back into the front of the shop where Free and Michel were talking. Making sure his smile was back in place, Chloé joined them and listened patiently as Michel relayed a boisterous story about a computer game he and Yuki had been playing.

Aya took the vase of flowers to the cooler to await pick-up then went back to clean the workroom. Forcing his mind away from Yohji, he was busy replaying what had just happened when he stopped in shock. Did Chloé feel something for him other than friendship? That was ridiculous, Aya thought. He was probably reading more into the encounter because of his own growing attraction to Chloé. He resolved to keep things very light this evening so Chloé wouldn’t figure out that he was starting to have feelings toward him other than just friendship. Finished with his clean-up, Aya took the back stairs up to his room.

*****

Chloé waited for Aya in the foyer, surprised to find himself feeling a touch nervous. It was silly, he thought, to be nervous about going out with Aya to dinner and a movie. Nothing about the evening was anything more than two friends would do with each other, yet Chloé knew deep down that he wanted this to be a true date. The attraction he felt for Aya had grown over the time they’d known each other. He respected the man greatly and valued his friendship, but underneath there was a deeper emotion that he could, most of the time, ignore.

As Aya came down the stairs, Chloé felt his breath still at the sight of his friend dressed in supple white leather. Quickly gathering his senses, he stepped forward to greet him. “If you don’t mind me saying, Aya, you look stunning. I fear that I will appear undressed beside you. I dare say you will garner much attention tonight.”

Aya looked at Chloé with a slight wrinkle of his brow. “Should I change? Isn’t this appropriate?” Aya asked a little concerned. He never did feel comfortable in knowing how to dress for an occasion, and now felt he’d worn the wrong thing.

“Aya, you look great. I didn’t mean to make you feel self-conscious,” Chloé said apologetically. “Shall we go? We don’t want to get to the bistro too late and have to rush through our dinner. I want to enjoy our night out.” Taking his coat from the rack beside the front door, Chloé put it on before holding Aya’s out to him.

Aya shrugged on his coat not quite knowing how to accept the compliment so decided to say nothing as he followed Chloé out to the car. After he fastened his seatbelt, he looked over to Chloé and asked, “Do you go to this restaurant often?”

“Just on special occasions,” Chloé answered as he turned on the car, letting it warm momentarily before he pulled out onto the street and headed down the road toward their destination. “I stumbled across it one night shortly after moving here. Authentic Italian in an intimate setting. I prefer that over something newer and brighter. I hope you’ll like it.”

“I’m sure I will.” Aya frowned again. Why was he having such a hard time making small talk with Chloé tonight? Granted he wasn’t the most prolific conversationalist, but he usually found conversations with Chloé came with hardly any effort. Tonight he was grasping at topics. Suddenly he thought of something Chloé said earlier. “You said the book you are reading is boring. I just finished a wonderful book that maybe you’d be interested in. Maybe after your morning shift tomorrow we can discuss it?”

Chloé glanced momentarily at Aya and nodded before turning his attention back to the road. “I’d like that. I’m having a terrible time lately finding something worth reading from start to finish. Any suggestions would be welcome. Aya...” He paused to shift gears then once again looked briefly at the man seated beside him. “You seem distracted this evening. If you wanted to postpone this until another time, I’d understand.”

Startled from his thoughts, Aya said, “What? No, Chloé. I’m quite looking forward to going to dinner and seeing the film. I’m sorry if I’m a bit distracted. I’ve... I was thinking of Yohji earlier and I truly don’t wish to be alone tonight. I assure you, Chloé, I’ll try to be better company.”

Aya had told Chloé all about Yohji several months back. He knew that Chloé would understand why he wouldn’t want to be alone with his thoughts right then. Glancing over at Chloé, Aya couldn’t decipher the look that quickly passed over Chloé’s features.

“Ah, I wondered if that might not be the case. I hope you weren’t dwelling on bad memories? Remember, I suggested that you should concentrate only on the good times you shared and the love you had. The rest is unimportant, Aya.” Chloé held the steering wheel steady with one hand as the other reached over to pat Aya briefly on the knee. “I hope you know that if you ever wish to talk about Yohji again, I’d be happy to listen. Don’t feel as if you have to hold it inside.”

Aya’s breath caught and he was surprised at the quick thrill he felt at Chloé’s touch. He forced himself to calm down and concentrate on how lucky he was to have such a friend instead of the way his heart was beating just a little faster. He didn’t want to do anything to jeopardize this friendship. Aya forced his feelings to the back of his mind and replied, “Thank you, Chloé. It wasn’t so much bad memories as memories in general. Plus the realization that I still miss him. I hope he’s happy. That’s what makes it all bearable, the thought that he is finally happy.”

“Why should it surprise you that you still miss him? My dear friend, I believe you will always miss Yohji, and will always mourn his loss to some degree. I do hope for your sake that he is happy, although I thought you were perhaps in touch with Mamoru Takatori on occasion?” Chloé asked, directing the car down a side street and maneuvering into an open parking space along the curb. “Why not find out how Yohji is doing, Aya? Is there any harm in quieting the worries of your mind?”

“I haven’t had any contact directly with Mamoru for quite some time. His underlings keep me apprised of Aya-chan, but not Yohji. I don’t think Mamoru wants me to have any ties to Yohji, even if it’s only an update. I think he feels I may go disrupt Yohji’s peaceful life or something. It’s probably for the best that I move on and try to forget that Yohji is still in this world, since he’s no longer in mine.”

Chloé turned off the car, but left the keys in the ignition as he shifted in his seat to look directly at Aya. “I think, perhaps, that what you need to do is accept that you will always miss this man whom you loved greatly. How do you expect to forget him in such circumstances? Why do you wish to even try?” he asked.

Aya looked back at Chloé with pain-filled eyes as he answered, “Because I don’t know how much longer I can take the ache I feel when I think of him.” He opened the car door and stepped out to wait for Chloé. “Don’t you think we should get to the restaurant? You said we didn’t want to have to rush through dinner.”

Chloé pulled the keys free from the ignition with a sigh as Aya exited the car. He did the same, locking the vehicle as he came round to join his teammate on the sidewalk outside the bistro. He walked up to the door and held it open for Aya, waiting for him to pass through before he followed.

Aya looked at the restaurant in interest. Chloé was right; it was an intimate place with only twenty or so tables with lit candles casting a relaxing glow. He stepped aside to let Chloé talk to the host that came forward to greet them.

Chloé exchanged a few words with Marco, the pleasant Italian man who ran the restaurant, before he showed them to a quiet table along one of the walls. Chloé could tell Aya approved of the restaurant and it made him smile. He wanted Aya to enjoy himself tonight, especially since it seemed his friend was in need of some cheering up. “Should I order us a bottle of wine?” he asked once they were seated and looking over the menu.

Aya looked up from the menu and nodded. “Yes, wine sounds wonderful. I’ll leave the selection to you.” He felt the corners of his mouth lift slightly in answer to Chloé’s smile. He could feel himself relaxing as some of the tension that had been with him most of the day dissipated. He was suddenly very glad that Chloé had asked him out.

“Are you enticed by chicken or beef this evening?” Chloé asked, his eyes still skimming the menu. “I’m feeling rather partial to beef,” he announced, gaze flickering to Aya. “I need to know your choice before I order us a bottle of wine.”

“Since I’m having one of the pasta dishes without meat, I would say either,” Aya answered.

“Tis a pity,” Chloé replied. Within moments, a friendly young woman arrived at the table and identified herself as their server for the evening. Chloé placed an order for a bottle of Chianti, and then waited for Aya to make his selection before following it up with his own.

“I mostly bypass the beef dishes as I rarely had them growing up and usually don’t know what might be good. You’ll have to recommend one next time,” Aya said while looking around at the room’s decor.

Chloé softly chuckled. “How could I forget the Japanese and their unnatural fascination with fish? Not that I have anything against sushi in general. I quite enjoy it, for the most part, although I’m not fond of digesting tentacles.”

“We only eat what is readily available. It’s not like you’re going to find many herds of cattle grazing in Japan. And I don’t necessarily like octopus that much either; I prefer eel by far,” Aya said as his gaze returned to Chloé.

“Eel is tasty, I’ll give you that. But sea urchin has to be one of the nastiest substances to ever cross my palate. The texture is truly revolting.” Chloé shuddered, making a face to display his remembered disgust. “As much as I do enjoy tuna and salmon, I could never go without a delicious steak for too long.”

“What about chicken? Do you enjoy that?” Aya asked before taking a bite of the minestrone soup their waiter had placed in front of him.

“I like chicken very much,” Chloé answered, pausing to taste his own soup. “Delicious, isn’t it?” he asked, indicating the minestrone. “Marco’s chef is one of the finest in my opinion. I hope the meal meets with your approval.” The waiter poured a glass of wine for them each. Taking his in his hand, Chloé lifted it toward Aya. “To good food and good friends.”

Aya chinked his glass to Chloé’s and repeated the toast before taking a sip of the wine and smiling in appreciation. “This is very good wine, and, yes, the soup is also quite good. Quite the best I’ve ever had, in fact.”

Chloé didn’t bother to hide his smile of satisfaction upon hearing Aya’s words. “Does that mean you’ll grace me with your good company here again? Everything on the menu is excellent. Well worth trying, I promise.”

Aya noted Chloé’s smile and decided to tease him just a bit as he said with a straight face, “Well, since I know how to find it, what makes you think I can’t come here on my own, or maybe Ken might like this place.”

Chloé’s frown was genuine, but he quickly masked it with a dramatic gasp and a clutch of his hand over his heart. “You wound me to the quick, Aya. You would choose Ken’s company over mine? My manners are far superior to his. Does Ken even know how to properly use a fork and knife?”

Aya barely suppressed his smile over Chloé’s theatrics, but decided not to drag out the teasing. “Well, he does know how to use his chopsticks, but I can’t guarantee he knows about the correct fork. And I suppose you do have more to talk about than football.”

“You forgot to add that I was better looking. Not to mention the superior quality of my witty banner. Or the fact that I understand what you’re saying more than half the time regardless of the language you chose to use. Added to the fact that I know how to read a book without pictures, how can you resist?” Chloé’s smile widened as he took a sip of his wine.

Aya looked at Chloé thoughtfully and said, “I promise not to mention the quality of your witty banter, but I think Free might give you a run for your money.” He was surprised at how easily Chloé could make him act carefree and lighthearted enough to joke. That was something that had never come easily to him. Except when he was with... Aya choked off that thought, not wanting put a damper on the evening. Instead he waited for Chloé’s reaction to his latest comment.

“I dare say Michel might put up a fight if you try to garner Free’s attention,” Chloé replied. “Indeed, Free’s fortunetelling does make him quite interesting, but I have it on good authority that he’s a rather dull conversationalist. He’ll finish your sentences for you.”

“Are you trying to convince me not to bring Free here for dinner?” Aya asked.

Chloé shrugged and feigned innocence. “Would I do such a thing? I’m merely doing my best to give you all the facts so you’ll make an informed decision.”

Aya leaned back in his chair and picked up his wine to take another taste. Looking at Chloé from underneath his bangs, Aya realized that he enjoyed being with Chloé, and was feeling very content. “Well then, maybe I should ask KR to join me one night. His conversation is quite stimulating,” he replied.

Chloé lifted his glass to Aya. “Now there is a man worthy of your companionship at dinner. Of KR, I can approve. I’d be terribly disappointed to be left on the wayside, but I could not fault your choice. Alas.” Unable to keep from cracking a smile, Chloé took another drink of wine as dinner finally arrived.

Aya watched as the waiter placed their dishes in front of them and left. “Alas?” he asked, clearly puzzled.

“No man wants to be spurned for another, Aya,” Chloé explained. “Even for something as simple as a quiet dinner. But you do know I am teasing you, yes? It’s good to see you smile from time to time.”

Aya took a bite of his pasta while Chloé spoke. Letting his smile appear for a moment he said, “Yes, I do know that you’ve been teasing. Thank you for this. I’m having a very nice time.”

Chloé started cutting his steak, glancing up at Aya and giving him another warm smile. “Excellent. I’m very pleased to hear that. How’s your pasta?”

Aya finished a mouthful before he answered, “Very good. You weren’t exaggerating how excellent the food is.”

“See, not everything I say is an exaggeration. You shouldn’t doubt me,” Chloé teased before returning to his meal. He remained silent while dining upon the steak he’d ordered, occasionally pausing to take a sip or two of the wine, refilling his and Aya’s glass when needed.

Aya just smiled to himself at Chloé’s comment and quietly ate his own meal, enjoying the comfortable silence. Nodding his head in thanks at the refill of his wineglass, he continued to enjoy his dinner until he couldn’t eat anymore. Pushing his plate aside he said, “I think the rest will have to go home. The portions here are more than generous.”

Chloé nodded his agreement as he glanced down at his own plate. “It tastes heavenly, but I’m too full to continue. We can leave the leftovers in the car during the movie. Speaking of which...” He looked down at his watch, taking note of the time. “We should depart soon. Shall I call for the check?”

Aya nodded but couldn’t help adding, “I thought we came here for the tiramisu?”

“We did, and we’ll get two slices to go. We can’t enjoy such a rich dessert if there’s no room in our bellies. Besides, having it for later means we have something to look forward to when we get home,” Chloé replied, favoring Aya with a wink. Quickly getting the waiter’s attention, he asked for the check, taking out his credit card while he waited.

Aya was lost in thought as a part of him wished Chloé’s flirting was real and not part of the blond’s natural personality. Forcing his thoughts away from yearnings that would lead him nowhere, Aya leaned forward to pull out his wallet, intending to pay for his portion of the check.

Chloé shook his head back at Aya. “No, I insist. Tonight is my treat, Aya. If that offends your sensibilities, then you can buy me dinner another night.” When their waiter returned, he handed her his credit card, making sure that Aya’s money came no where near the bill.

Aya frowned at his friend, but didn’t want to make a scene in public. He sighed and said, “Then I insist on returning the favor next time we eat out together.”

“Aya, in case you haven’t noticed, this would be what most people call a ‘date’. I asked you out for dinner and a film, and you agreed. Even friends can go on dates, so you needn’t worry. If, in turn, you wished to ask me on a date as well, I would be delighted to accept.” Chloé waited for the server to return with his slip and signed it while she put a bag containing their leftovers and slices of tiramisu on the table.

“I’ve never referred to friends going out like this as a ‘date’. It seems odd. But if my asking you out on a date means that I take you to dinner to pay you back for tonight, consider yourself asked.” Aya stood and put his coat on.

Chloé’s expression was a little smug as he stood and followed Aya’s example. “I suppose that’s one way for me to guarantee always getting a date with you.”

“Hn. It’s only one more time, Chloé,” Aya said before turning to head for the exit.

“Not if I have anything to say about it,” Chloé murmured to himself before he followed Aya out of the restaurant.

*****

Chloé opened the front door and gestured for Aya to walk in first. He was pleased with how the evening had gone. It seemed Aya had enjoyed both the dinner and the film, which was exactly what he had hoped.

Aya entered the house and took off his jacket before hanging it on the coat rack near the door. He was surprised by how much pleasure he’d derived from the evening, especially from Chloé’s company. Now that the evening was over, he was sorry to see it end. Turning to face his friend, he said, “Thank you, Chloé, I had a really nice time tonight.”

Chloé held up the bag that contained both their leftovers and their dessert. “So did I, Aya. I’m pleased you agreed to go out with me. But it is not over quite yet. We still have the tiramisu if you feel up to eating it?”

Aya had forgotten all about the desert, but the thought of the treat made him lick his lips in anticipation. He gave Chloé a slight nod and headed for the kitchen.

Chloé chuckled as he witnessed Aya’s reaction. He knew the redhead had something of a sweet tooth and he thought he’d have to indulge it often in the future. Once in the kitchen, he served each of their desserts on a plate. “I hope you enjoy it.”

While Chloé was getting the deserts ready, Aya put water on for some tea. As he scooped out tea leaves into his favorite teapot he asked, “Would you like some green tea, Chloé? Or would you rather have coffee?”

“Green tea will be fine. Thank you, Aya,” Chloé replied. He waited for Aya to join him before starting in on his dessert.

Aya added the hot water to the pot and set it on the table to steep while he got two mugs. He then sat down, took a bite of tiramisu and groaned softly, his eyes closing in pleasure. “Mmm, this is very good.” Aya said before he took another bite, pausing to lick the stray cream that had escaped his mouth.

Chloé watched, entranced, shifting minutely on his seat as he felt himself start to harden. Not wanting to embarrass either himself or Aya, he cleared his throat and concentrated on his own dessert. “I had a feeling you would enjoy the tiramisu there. I’ve yet to find better in London.”

“You were correct, Chloé. This is really good. I don’t think I’ve ever had any this good before.” Aya poured some tea into each of their mugs before picking his up and taking a tentative sip of the hot beverage. He set the cup back down and focused on the sweet treat in front of him, not willing to ignore it for long.

Chloé couldn’t help but smile as he watched Aya finish his dessert. He was sure the man had no idea how charming he looked as he enjoyed the rich confection. Suppressing another chuckle, he reached for his mug of tea and savored the two flavors mixed together. “The tea is perfect.”

Aya couldn’t believe he’d finished the tiramisu already as he pushed aside the empty plate and reached for his mug once more. Enjoying the warmth heating his hands, he sipped his tea before replying, “I’m glad you like the tea, it’s one of my favorite blends. Feel free to have some anytime you wish.”

“That’s most generous of you, Aya,” Chloé said, offering his friend a warm smile. “I hope you’ll let me take you back to the Italian restaurant in the future. Perhaps afterwards we could attend a play.”

Aya’s eyes focused on nothing as he became lost in thought for a brief moment. Shaking himself back to the present, he said, “I haven’t been to a play in years. I’d like that very much, but I don’t want you to think you have to entertain me. I can easily go by myself.”

“Nonsense,” Chloé chided as he took both their plates to the sink and rinsed them off. “What fun is going to a play by yourself? Unless you don’t enjoy my company?” he teased.

“No, I enjoy spending time with you.” Aya answered. “Trust me, I would tell you if I didn’t want your company.” Aya finished his tea and took the empty mugs and pot to the sink.

“I’m glad to hear that I don’t somehow offend you,” Chloé quipped, a hint of humor in his words. “So then, we’ll have to figure out a good day and time for our second date. I’ll see what’s playing and we can decide what we’d like to see.”

Aya looked up in surprise at Chloé’s choice of words, still a bit unsettled at the term ‘date’. He hadn’t realized that he and Chloé were standing so close together. Not really knowing what to say, he decided to retire for the night. “Well, I better let you go to bed as you have the morning shift tomorrow.”

Chloé blinked back at Aya, reaching out to lightly caress one cheek before quickly drawing his hand back. His gaze dropped to Aya’s lips as he felt the strong temptation to suddenly kiss the other man. Quickly reining in his thoughts, he smiled and nodded. “Yes, it’s quite late. Thank you again for joining me this evening, Aya. I had a lovely time. Good night.”

Aya stood rooted to the spot as if hypnotized. The touch on his face had brought back the thought of what it would be like to kiss Chloé. He tried to imagine what his friend would do if he suddenly pressed his mouth against his.

Chloé’s own thoughts followed a parallel course, but he took a step back to distance himself from Aya, giving him a quick bow. “Tonight was a pleasure. I’m looking forward to the next time. Now, I should get some sleep. See you in the shop tomorrow.” He turned and departed, frowning at himself for not taking the opportunity. Still, he didn’t know how Aya would react and he didn’t want to risk scaring the man away.

Aya nodded and said to Chloé’s retreating back, “Sleep well, Chloé.”

Now alone, Aya turned back to the sink and called himself all kinds of fools to have had such ridiculous thoughts about Chloé. Obviously the man couldn’t get away from him fast enough just now. Aya’s face burned in embarrassment as he realized his face must have betrayed his thoughts, causing Chloé leave so quickly.

As he finished washing the teapot and mugs, Aya resolved to fight his attraction to Chloé and force himself to keep his feelings from straying in unwanted territory. He also decided to turn down Chloé’s offer of future ‘dates’ to avoid any further inappropriate behavior. Aya slowly climbed the stairs to find his lonely bed, but that night his dreams were filled with a different blond than normal.

*****

“I want to kiss you,” Chloé said suddenly, interrupting Aya as he discussed the finer points of the book he’d finished that afternoon. “May I kiss you, Aya?”

Chloé wasn’t exactly sure what motivated him to ask the bold question then and there. He and Aya had become good friends during the last couple of months, and Chloé even dared to hope there was a mutual attraction between them. At least, he knew there was on his part. Chloé supposed his impromptu question would settle the matter once and for all.

Aya, for his part, looked a little nonplussed. He had paused, mid-sentence, with his book held in one hand, and stared at Chloé as if the man had grown two heads. Chloé shifted restlessly on the couch beside Aya and resisted the urge to apologize for his presumptuous behavior. He wanted Aya’s answer first.

“Did you just ask to kiss me?” Aya asked in return, and Chloé was initially pleased at the lack of anger in his voice.

“Yes, I did,” Chloé answered. No sense in denying the truth.

“Hn.” When Aya didn’t seem inclined to comment further, Chloé wondered if the matter had been summarily dropped despite the fact that Aya hadn’t actually given him an answer.

He was about to apologize for being so forward when Aya surprised him by saying, “You may kiss me.” As he watched, Aya marked his place in the book and carefully set it aside.

“Pardon?” Chloé wanted to be quite sure he’d heard his friend correctly.

“I said that you may kiss me. Or have you already changed your mind?”

“No, I haven’t changed my mind, Aya. I still very much want to kiss you.”

Chloé moved closer to Aya and slid a hand over one of his cheeks, keeping the caress light and gentle. He thought he felt Aya tremble slightly, but wasn’t sure and certainly wasn’t about to ask. The pad of his thumb stroked over Aya’s bottom lip and Chloé felt himself smile when Aya’s lips parted minutely. Leaning forward, he pressed his mouth against Aya’s, savoring the taste of those lips as he explored, careful not to deepen the kiss too quickly.

Aya’s mouth relaxed beneath his and then Aya was kissing him back, tentatively at first but with growing confidence. Chloé parted his own lips in invitation and was pleasantly surprised when Aya took the initiative and thrust his tongue into Chloé’s mouth. Their tongues danced together as each man seemed content to let the kiss happen without a need to claim dominance over it.

Someone moaned and it took Chloé a moment or two to realize it hadn’t been him. By then Aya was pushing him back against the arm of the couch and pressing his body against Chloé’s. The kiss became intense and passionate, beyond anything Chloé had fantasized. He’d suspected that beneath Aya’s carefully controlled exterior a fierce passion hid, and now he was experiencing a taste of it. His desire for Aya grew; he knew without a doubt that he would never be satisfied with a mere taste.

“Want you,” Aya whispered against Chloé’s lips when they finally parted for breath. “Now, Chloé.”

Chloé pulled back from Aya, wanting to see his face at the moment, needing to see what lay within the depths of his eyes.

“Are you sure, Aya? It seems to me that you aren’t one to take on a casual lover. I must also admit that a casual, purely sexual relationship is not what I wish for between us. So, if you aren’t quite positive about your decision, we should cease what we’re doing before it causes irreparable damage to our friendship.”

“Chloé.” Aya cupped Chloé’s cheek and gave him a small but warm smile. “I’m sure. I’ve thought about kissing you for weeks. Only I wasn’t sure you thought of me as anything other than a friend. And… well… you know the extent of my experience in matters like this.”

Chloé nuzzled against Aya’s hand. “Yes, I do know and that’s why I hesitated until today. I didn’t want to put you off by being pushy. I respect and love you as a dear friend, Aya, but I believe there can be more between us. Are you’re willing to give it a try?”

Aya nodded. “Yes, I’m willing. But you’ll have to be patient with me.”

“Of course,” Chloé replied.

“Only, not right now. I’m not feeling very patient at the moment. It’s been a long time. I just want… I want you, Chloé.”

“And you shall have me, love. I have but one question for you.”

“What’s that?” Aya looked puzzled.

“Your room or mine?” Chloé quipped.

Aya leaned in for another kiss. He’d missed this so much and, after last night, had despaired of ever again experiencing the fluttering feel of desire pool in his stomach. Opening his mouth further, he felt as if he could devour Chloé or let the man do the same to him. Pulling back with a shuddering breath he suggested, “Your room? I... I don’t have anything...”

Chloé caressed Aya’s cheek and smiled. “My room it is then.” Taking Aya’s hand in his, he tugged him out of the room and down the hall to his bedroom, anxious to get the man inside lest Aya suddenly change his mind. He was nervous, perhaps not as much as the redhead, but still enough to make his hands tremble as he locked the door behind them.

Aya stood in the middle of Chloé’s bedroom, a leaden weight of trepidation settling in his stomach. ‘What was he doing?’ he asked himself, suddenly very nervous. If something went wrong… he didn’t want to lose Chloé’s friendship.

He’d had the same worries, but not quite as bad, when he first started his relationship with Yohji. Without Chloé’s embrace, things seemed suddenly awkward and Aya felt ready to flee.

“Aya...” Chloé crossed the room and wrapped his arms around Aya from behind, nuzzling the spot behind his ear. “I want you and I want this, very much. But if you want to change your mind, now would be the time. Otherwise...” He let his words trail off in favor of kissing the same spot he was nuzzling. Pressed up against Aya from behind, he knew the other man could easily feel the hard line of his erection.

Aya shuddered with the power of his desire as he tilted his head to further enjoy Chloé’s teasing lips. It was not just lust but feelings for Chloé mingled into the meld. Aya took a deep breath and as he released it, all the tension he felt went with it. This was right, he decided, because Chloé wanted this as much as Aya did. Aya pressed his ass back into Chloé’s hardness and said, “I haven’t changed my mind, I just don’t want to do anything to hurt you, Chloé. My body wants you, my mind does too, but you know I still have strong feelings for Yohji. I don’t want to do anything to ruin our friendship. You mean a lot to me.”

“I am neither trying to nor wishing to replace Yohji, Aya. I promise you this. I care about you very much and I meant it when I said I didn’t want us to be casual lovers.” Chloé put his hands on Aya’s shoulders and turned him around, face to face. “I have no intentions of pushing you in this. So please, relax and let me love you. I want you to enjoy yourself. That’s all that matters to me at this moment.”

Aya closed his eyes and nodded. He’d let Chloé take the lead this time because it felt right to do so. It had been so long that all Aya wanted to do was feel; he didn’t want to think at all. It would be his turn soon enough to return the favor but Aya was willing to let Chloé take charge, in more ways than one, right now.

Chloé bent to kiss Aya again, moving his lips softly and slowly over the other man’s mouth. He waited for Aya to relax before deepening the embrace, feeling Aya’s lips part beneath his and allowing his tongue to slip inside. He was amazed at how sweet Aya tasted, how just kissing him made Chloé so hard and wanting. His slipped his around Aya’s waist and pulled him closer, letting Aya feel how much Chloé desired him.

Aya moaned into Chloé’s kiss, the sensations making him dizzy with need. He pushed his hips forward and rubbed his erect cock against Chloé’s. Aya pulled Chloé’s shirt from his pants in order to get under the fabric and touch bare skin, his hands trailing up a sensitive spine to clutch at Chloé’s strong shoulders. Aya broke off the kiss to move his lips to Chloé’s neck, where he began to suck, lick and bite. “Please.” Aya whispered against the marked flesh.

“Oh god, Aya, you’re making it impossible to think straight,” Chloé moaned, hands dipping down to clutch briefly at the curve of Aya’s ass. He shivered at the feel of Aya’s hands on his skin, his teeth marking his neck. Slowly, he began guiding Aya toward the bed, his own hands fumbling to remove the man’s shirt.

“Think, who’s thinking? I want.” He lifted his arms to allow Chloé to pull off his shirt. When his legs hit the back of the bed, he sat down and began to work at Chloé’s belt and pants. “Now, I want now.”

Chloé couldn’t help but smile. “When you make your mind up about something, you certainly don’t waste any time. Not that I’m complaining.” He watched as Aya undid his belt and pants, feeling his cock straining against the material. Damn, but he wanted Aya so much it made him ache.

Aya grinned at Chloé, “You don’t know that half of it.” Aya pushed Chloé’s pants and underwear down to his ankles before he leaned forward and took the tip of Chloé’s cock in his mouth. He sighed in delight; it had been so long since he’d done this. Aya had always loved giving Yohji pleasure this way and it was no different with Chloé. He reached up and cupped Chloé’s balls with one hand while the other wrapped around Chloé’s impressive length.

Chloé tossed his head back and moaned in delight at the feel of Aya’s lips around his cock. His hands strayed to Aya’s hair, stroking through the red strands, occasionally tugging as he enjoyed everything Aya was doing to him. While perhaps not quite the ‘monk’ Aya was, it had still been some time since Chloé had last been with a lover.

Aya was enjoying Chloé’s obvious pleasure as he continued to explore his new lover’s cock with hands and tongue. As much as he’d love to bring Chloé to a climax with a blow job, Aya wanted to feel that cock inside of him; it had been too long. Reluctantly pulling away from Chloé’s cock, he gave the tip one last lick and stood up to remove his pants, briefs and socks. Standing before Chloé, he reached up and yanked Chloé’s shirt open, buttons flying everywhere, before pushing the ruined garment off Chloé’s shoulders. “You’re too slow.”

“And you’re too impatient,” Chloé retorted with a laugh as he pushed Aya back on the bed and immediately followed him. He hovered above Aya, admiring the lean stretch of his body and the jut of his cock from its nest of red curls. “Hmm, natural redhead. I suspected as much,” he teased before lowering his mouth to one of Aya’s nipples. He laved it with his tongue, bringing it to a hard peak before nipping it with his teeth. Soon he did the same to the other before he made his way further down Aya’s body to finally take his cock into his mouth.

“Ahhh... Chloé.” Aya choked out. He thrust his hips back and forth but suddenly grabbed Chloé’s hair and forced him away from his cock. “Sorry... can’t... not now. Later, okay?”

“Mmm, I understand. I just had to taste you, Aya. Even a little. Now then, don’t move, alright?” Chloé shifted to the side of Aya, pulling out the drawer of his nightstand and removing two items: a bottle of lube and a condom. He laid down beside Aya again, stroking a hand down his body. Laying the condom on the pillow, he opened the cap to the bottle and poured the liquid over his hands, not caring as droplets fell to the comforter. Capturing Aya’s lips in a deep kiss, he guided his slick fingers between Aya’s parted thighs, teasing the entrance to his tight opening until he was sure there was enough lube coating it before easing in a single finger.

Aya gasped when he felt Chloé penetrate him. He rocked his hips forward to feel more. “More...” he said and sighed in pleasure when he felt a second finger inserted. “Feels good... ahhh...” Aya broke off when Chloé touched his prostate. He arched his back and tried to impale himself even further on those fingers.

Chloé felt his control slipping sideways and gritted his teeth against the sudden, nearly feverish need to thrust hard and fast into Aya. He wanted the man to feel nothing but pleasure. Telling his lust to be patient, he added a third finger and stretched Aya further, careful not to stroke his sweet spot too often. Finally, when he realized they both needed more than this, he withdrew his fingers and positioned his cock at Aya’s opening. He pushed inside with as much restraint as possible, groaning at the incredible feeling of being clutched by such tight heat.

Aya too groaned deep and loud as he gripped Chloé’s forearms tight and felt a slight sting from the penetration. He forced his body to relax until Chloé was fully sheathed within him. Aya took deep breaths when Chloé paused and, once the slight pain receded, he said, “Move, Chloé. I want to feel you. Don’t make me wait anymore.” Aya leaned up to place a quick kiss on Chloé’s lips before he lay back down on the bed.

Chloé sucked in a breath to steady himself, feeling the threat of climax far too soon. He leaned in to continue the kiss before nodding back to Aya, not trusting himself to speak. Instead he moaned his pleasure as he began a steady rhythm of back and forth thrusts inside Aya’s body. “So good...” he breathed, gaze focused on Aya’s flushed face, wanting to witness everything the man felt as they fucked.

Aya locked gazes with Chloé while the pleasure built to an almost painful level. Aya knew he wouldn’t... he couldn’t… last long. Not this first time. Knowing Chloé would understand, he gripped his cock tightly and began to stroke himself in time with Chloé’s thrusts. It felt so good; Aya had denied himself even the simple pleasure of jerking off for the most part and hadn’t climaxed in almost a year. He felt his orgasm approaching and said, “I can’t wait this time... sorry...” and began to move his hand even faster.

“Aya,” Chloé moaned, bringing his hand to join Aya’s, moving together with him as he jerked Aya to completion. As he felt Aya clench around his cock, he gave a few additional quick and hard thrusts, joining him in climax all too soon after. As his cock pulsed inside his friend, he realized too late that he’d forgotten to wear the condom.

Aya’s body continued with little aftershocks of pleasure while his cock finally stopped spurting all over his stomach and Chloé and his hands. As his own orgasm subsided, he became aware of the look on his lover’s face as Aya watched him come.

“You’re beautiful when you come, Chloé,” Aya finally said in a gruff voice. Not caring of the mess, he pulled Chloé down to lay on top of him and wrapped his arms around Chloé, enjoying the weight of his new lover crushing him into the mattress while they slowly regained normal breathing and heart rate.

“No, you are, Aya. More beautiful than anyone I’ve ever seen,” Chloé murmured before pressing his mouth to Aya’s and tasting his sweetness once again. “Forgive me though. I forgot to use the condom. I’m quite sorry, but you can be assured that I am entirely clean. I would never disrespect you in such a way.”

Still a little dazed from his orgasm, Aya looked at Chloé in confusion until his mind caught up. When he saw the look of concern on his friend’s face, Aya hastened to assure him, “If you say you’re clean, Chloé, that’s all I need to know. I am too. As you know, I was only with Yohji, and he was always careful before we became lovers. The only reason I suggested condoms was for your peace of mind and in case this was just something temporary.” Aya hadn’t wanted to assume anything even though Chloé had alluded to the fact that this was the beginning of something a bit more permanent; the doubts were never far from the surface. Aya excelled at always thinking the worse case scenario.

Chloé eased out of Aya’s body with reluctance, shifting to lie down beside him. He couldn’t stop touching the man as his fingertips played over Aya’s pale skin. “This is only temporary if you decide it is, Aya. I’ve wanted you for some time now and being with you like this was more incredible than I dreamed. I would have you in my bed or anywhere else for that matter as much as you would allow. I care for you, don’t you know this?”

Aya reluctantly met Chloé’s gaze and tried to think of how to put into words his feelings. He was never very good at this even on the best of days. Aya grabbed Chloé’s hand and raised it to his lips to kiss the fingertips. Releasing Chloé’s hand, Aya then cupped Chloé’s cheek as he said, “I don’t want this to be temporary. I care about you too, Chloé.” Aya confessed in a soft voice, “but I never dreamed you wanted me. Last night...” Aya paused and took a deep breath before he continued, “...last night I wanted to kiss you but you left so suddenly. I was sure I had offended you because you realized I wanted you.”

Chloé groaned, quickly shaking his head. “That’s what you thought? My dear Aya, it was all I could do not to ravish you then and there. I didn’t want to push you too quickly or have you somehow think I expected such intimacies on our first date. So I excused myself before I did something foolish. In fact, I returned to my room and masturbated before I could even sleep. I felt as if I was a teenager again.” Chloé chuckled embarrassedly.

“So last night was a real date? I didn’t know, Chloé. When we were by the sink, all I wanted to do was pull you close and kiss you.” Aya paused and mulled over the rest of what Chloé had confided, “You were thinking of me when you, er...”

“Silly man, of course I was thinking of you. Why on earth would I admit to doing such a thing otherwise? Aya, do you really have no idea how much you affect me? Well, you do. You always have, but we became friends and I didn’t want to jeopardize that friendship. The others helped me to see that perhaps I wouldn’t.” Chloé slid his arm over Aya’s side, pulling him close for a kiss intended to render them both breathless. Panting when they finally parted, he good-humoredly observed. “We’re both sticky. What say you to a shower?”

“What others have you been discussing this with?” Aya wasn’t going to be side-tracked by the thought of a shower no matter how wonderful that sounded at the moment. He wanted some answers first and to know if he was going to be embarrassed by the others any time soon.

Chloé sighed. “It wasn’t a conspiracy. Ken, surprisingly enough, figured out my attraction for you and encouraged me. Free seemed equally encouraging. Michel… well, the boy is always enthusiastic. And when Yuki didn’t try to come after me with his scythe, I figured perhaps it was time to entice you to a date.”

“You told everyone?” Aya asked a bit heatedly. “What about KR and Mihirogi, do they know too?”

“No! I didn’t tell anyone. Dammit, Aya, not everyone is as oblivious as you are. They noticed. I’ve likely been wearing my heart on my sleeve for weeks now and they noticed. I do not make it a habit to discuss my potential love life with anyone. However, when my friends and teammates take it upon themselves to talk to me about it... What do you expect me to do? You seem to be the only one who didn’t notice. I think I might be insulted by that.”

“Hn.” Aya shoved Chloé’s arm aside as he made to get up. “So now I’m a clueless idiot, is that it?”

“Aya, please...” Chloé pleaded, grasping his arm. “No, you’re not clueless. Not exactly. And certainly not an idiot. No doubt you weren’t expecting to be attracted to me. You are still attracted to me I hope?” He meant it as a joke, but realized too late how insecure and unsure he truly sounded.

Aya stopped trying to get up and looked at Chloé. He was surprised to see a bit of uncertainty on the usually confident visage. Realizing that maybe Chloé was just as unsure as Aya was feeling made him relent. “Yes, I’m still attracted to you... for now.” Aya didn’t want the man to think he was a complete pushover.

Chloé grunted. “For now, he says. Fair enough, I suppose. Now then, will you please shower with me? I promise to be a good boy and I’ll even wash your back. Or anything else you wish me to wash.”

Aya offered a wicked little grin and said, “Who said anything about wanting you to be a good boy?” With that, he got up and headed for Chloé’s bathroom.

Chloé just smiled.

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