Guns and Roses [AU: Yusuke X Kurama]

[EDDE]

Fox:
"Why you..." Kuwabara's arm was raised with his hand clenched in a fist, already about to make the first swing when Yusuke's voice startled him into a fumble. In an instant that anger was turned towards the detective, before dissipating into a wide grin. A game like this was just what he needed to shake off the cobwebs that long nights of studying left behind. Shizuru was really starting to crack down on that.

Back and forth the conversation went, the eyes of both on lookers shifting from one speaker to the other as the banter went on. Kuwabara looked at Hiei with an expression that simply said 'Ehh?' "You didn't play much as a kid, did ya."

Amusement danced in emerald eyes, but the fox kept his composure with only a small smile portraying his thoughts. He was carefully returning to what he really was, the wolf removing the sheep's clothing. His stance was different, but not enough so to pinpoint just what had changed. Even his tone evened out, smooth and perfectly mannered. Kuwabara had just opened his mouth to speak, when the red head offered his aid.

"Hiei, 'It' is the title given to the pursuer. 'You are it,' not 'Your it."

EDDE:
Hiei's attention fell just as sharply on Kuwabara through the question. He might usually ignore it, but his pulse was raised through the annoyance the conversation had drawn through him. "I wouldn't waste the time. There's no point in it." After all, it hadn't been hard for him to recognize the difference between the humans' definition of 'play' as opposed to his own.

And again, that attention shifted as Kurama managed to explain 'it' much more fluidly. It settled on the detective. "And you--" No, no. It wasn't worth the continued waste of time. Taking a much-needed breath to calm himself, he reconsidered. "Let's just get on with it." There was no point in making a mountain out of a mole hill; even if that was the detective's forte.

Giving his hair a vigorous run down through an annoyed grunt, Yusuke managed to cool off himself. This was supposed to be fun. He'd have to remember that. "Alright," he started in a much calmer tone. "I'll be it, if it'll get things moving." Looking over the others, that grin of his peeked through. "I'm giving you guys a ten second head start, so get the Hell away from me." The tease was easily lighthearted all over again before he began his count down.

"Hn." His own smirk fell over the smaller being's face. On instinct, the petite demon shifted away too quickly for what the rule had dictated.

The raven-haired teen only stopped to offer, "Too fast, Hiei," before continuing.

The task was much more difficult than it would seem, forcing himself to back off the pedal. But he managed, and kept himself a good distance away from the spirit detective as he finished his countdown and calculated who he would go after first. Kuwabara was too easy. He was still somewhat annoyed with Hiei. So his attention landed on the redhead, the comment on his lack of a challenge still fresh in his mind.

Fox:
The fox chuckled softly, being kind enough to tuck away the softening shaft to spare his boyfriend a bit of embarrassment. "I am sorry to disappoint you Hiei," he started, wiping his lips with his thumb to collect the stray dribbles of semen. He licked it clean before continuing. "But we only lose if Kuwabara is the one to catch us, and besides..." The fox sat up straight and took a moment to run his fingers through his hair to smooth it out.

Your hair is a bit... Damaged, Kurama.

The fox resisted a repulsed shudder. "This is a team game, if we were to lose, you would as well. So," Kurama looked at the smaller demon with a playful gleam in his eyes. "Do you plan to tag us back into the game, or shall we return to our previous position?"

EDDE:
Annoyance radiated off the small creature. "That isn't what was said." After all, he'd been told that if they moved when they were frozen, they were out. This indicated that the numbers would dwindle down over time should the rule be enforced. That had made it seem as though there would eventually be only one victor. Still, that annoyance calmed, and he took a few tentative steps forward, looking over the two as he approached. Yusuke was still avoiding eye contact, though he couldn't help but notice he'd placed a pout squarely on the redhead before him.

"Hn." Seeming to have gotten over his negative feelings toward the confusion over the rules, Hiei stopped in his tracks. "I won't," He offered smoothly, watching Yusuke and noting silently to himself that the boy was doing everything in his power not to look at the smaller as he paced around them. Amusement hit him once again through this understanding, however, he continued with his reasoning as he watched the oddly silent teen. "If I am tagged next, it means you will be 'it', doesn't it Kurama? At least then this ridiculous game might actually start to prove interesting."

As he spoke, he was walking back and forth; pausing, turning, walking again. And Yusuke, who hadn't seemed to notice that Hiei was screwing around with him, was very poorly pulling off that attempt at looking nonchalant in turning his eyes in a different direction from where Hiei stood.

Wanting to see how far the boy would carry his newfound embarrassment, Hiei persisted. He could be sure that Kurama had caught on to the behavior as well. Certainly, he was also getting a bit of a kick from it. "You're very quiet, Detective." There was a lilt in his tone, carrying a rising and falling tune that was far to blatantly teasing.

Yusuke seemed to recognize this. First, he tensed as he was addressed, apparently having been attempting to avoid any particular attention being placed on him. He preened sharply in surprise for just a moment. But he caught that tone, and chocolate eyes finally fell on the smaller being in a sharp pout. "Yea? What of it?"

The smaller being allowed a disappointed look to fall over his features. It fit well, despite being a mock. "You're usually so loud. Here I had hoped you'd gone mute. What a fortunate turn of events that would be for us all."

He preened again, only this time it came with a frustrated little growl that had him all but yelling in an instant. "You wanna go, Hiei?! I can definitely remind you just how much that voice of yours gets you into trouble too, you know!"

The laughter the smaller creature let off was cruel, taunting, and yet so definitive that it caused the inflated ego of the detective to bubble down all over again as he realized that a rise was exactly what Hiei was looking for from him. So that was it, huh?

A smirk slithered across Yusuke's face, and he reached out, pulling his boyfriend close quite suddenly and nuzzling his own cheek against the fox's. "Oh, I get it. You're jealous, right?" The attention of those hugging arms shifted down over the fox's body, petting down him in just the right way, as he'd learned so well as of late. It might not bring Kurama's body to life like it had his own, but it served its purpose. Especially with the harsh scowl that fell over the smaller being's face.

Surprise hit Yusuke's. "Hang on. I was just kidding." A sly smile that said he might know too much; one that often fell over his features whether he did or not. And his tone was just as teasingly sharp as Hiei's had just been "Are you jealous, Hiei?"

"Hn. Fool." It was Hiei's turn to change the direction of those large eyes through his annoyance and crossed arms in the definitive denial he didn't quite voice properly.

Fox:
Hiei's teasing pulled quiet chuckles from the fox, who lifted a hand to try and hid his smile while muffling his laughter. Laughter that only grew the longer the fire demon circled them, and the redder Yusuke's face got. "Oh!" Kurama jumped from his amusement as he was tugged against his boyfriend and their cheeks were rubbed together. Shuichi's sweet laughter was quickly dulled to Kurama's usual chuckle.

The sweet petting had an effect, a soothing effect that had him wanting to melt into Yusuke's hold and arch into the touches. He refrained of course, but it was a bit more difficult to do than he would have liked.

Hiei's reaction had him stiffening though, just slightly. How could he not have seen it? Of course the little fire demon felt something for him, he was the only one Hiei seemed comfortable with, with the newly growing exception of Yusuke. It worried him for a moment, to think he could have broken the heart of his friend... but he was quick to realize that Hiei probably had no idea what he was feeling, which would leave him open to feeling it again.

The fox smiled, his usual playful gleam returning to his gaze. "There is no need to be jealous Hiei," he assured, holding out an inviting hand. "If you want my affections, you are welcome to join us."

EDDE:
As Hiei took the breath he would need to decline the offer in a way that would show off his utter annoyance toward their idiocy, Yusuke chimed back in. "Sure. I don't mind, Hiei. If you really wanna." He hadn't quite caught on to Kurama's tone in the offer, but the detectives was impossible not to recognize.

Without a change in his features--which was much harder than it should have been to accomplish, he managed to sound perfectly serious in a response that was purely meant to play back at their ridiculous behavior in defiance. "Fine." He knew there was no way either of the teens sitting in the forest bed would be expecting that for an answer.

Fox:
It hadn't been expected... Or perhaps it was, because the fox smiled sweetly, knowingly, and continued to stretch out his hand to the fire demon. "Then you will have to join us down here, Hiei. Unless of course, you fear our touch."

EDDE:
Yusuke obviously hadn't been expecting it, judging by the look on his face. Though his attention turned to Kurama just as squarely as Hiei's did. He did find himself perfectly amused at the fact that Hiei seemed to grow incredibly offended by the notion that he might be afraid, which had him taking a tentative step forward despite how stiff he became as he did so.

He wouldn't do it on his own. Even Yusuke knew that much. That was why he grabbed the smaller being by the hand just about the moment he was close enough and tugged him down with them quickly. And it caught Hiei off guard too. Otherwise, he wouldn't have gone down as easily as he had. "C'mon Hiei. Join the fun," he snickered out cheekily.

Fox:
He couldn't stop his snickers, his shoulders jumping with his failed attempt to stay quiet as Hiei was pulled into their arms; and he simply couldn't help himself. The fox wrapped that outstretched arm around the smaller demon and bent down to press their cheeks together. He nuzzled against him in imitation of Yusuke's affections.

Kurama's free hand tapped at his boyfriend's naked shoulder, urging him to take the other cheek.

EDDE:
The glee in the face of the teen on the opposite side of the pissy little spitfire was palpable. He'd tugged Hiei right into the middle of them. And he managed to hold back his own noise of amusement as he took the hint he was offered, and nuzzled almost sweetly despite the tone of the situation. "See~?" He all but sang. "Isn't this great? Don't you just feel better, Hiei?"

The mock had gotten old literally the moment either of them had started once he was between them. Pissy would certainly be the word to sum up the disgruntled look covering his features like a blanket as he was nuzzled at. He was quick to make the move to pull away. Unfortunately for him, Yusuke's grasp was a lot stronger than he'd expected it to be. So instead, a sharp snarl of, "Get the Hell off me," slithered past his lips.

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
Despite the struggles Kurama continued to snuggle at the fire demon. "It is actually beneficial to engage in a hug. When you're hugging or cuddling with someone, they are stimulating pressure receptors under your skin in a way that leads to a cascade of events including an increase in vagal activity, which puts you in a relaxed state," he explained.

He would have continued, pondering pulling the little demon into a heavy hug; but he was distracted by a resounding, "DOG PILE!" With the distraction of teasing their stoic teammate, Kuwabara had snuck up behind them. He hadn't paid much mind to what was going on, just that they were all together and weren't paying attention.

Kurama let out a loud 'Ooof!' as the sudden weight of Kuwabara slammed into the lot of them.

EDDE:
Confusion mingled with that stark annoyance that had crossed his features. He hadn't asked for a free lesson along with the unwanted touch he'd been tricked into receiving. There was a resounding growl, a warning for the two strong males that spoke volumes toward just how light his struggles were going to remain in a moment.

Yusuke was busy snickering so hard he hadn't even stopped cuddling Hiei's cheek by the time their large companion belted out his appearance. "Kuwabara, no!" Of course, he was far too late. He could be glad for the fact that Kurama ended up above him, Hiei under him, because he knew exactly how little the redhead needed to trauma of a dog pile. But he wasn't glad. He was annoyed, and grew as pissy as one would expect quickly. "Dammit, Kuwabara! Get your fat ass off!" At least he wasn't as bad off as Kurama. And with Hiei at the bottom of the pile, he couldn't help but smirk through a visual click of his brain making connection. "You're gonna squish Hiei like a bug," he added in cruel tease to both of them.

Yusuke was facing him, and there was no doubt in his mind that the detective recognized the violent spark that hit his eyes as he was crushed beneath the lot of them. "I'll kill you all." He growled out shortly. Though even he recognized that it was almost completely an idle threat. And that bothered him more than the many times he'd been swindled throughout the night by these people.

Fox:
A sharp pain in his lower back halted his escape from the pile of dogs. He wished Yusuke had been above him, at least it would have buffed the full force of Kuwabara body slamming across his back. For several long moments he could see nothing but bright stars and had to bite down on his tongue to avoid calling out. Green eyes watered out of reflex, but tears never reached his long lashes.

For just as many moments as the stars remained in his eyes, the fox was blind and mute to the world around him, but came to quick enough for his plight to go unnoticed. And just in time to find Kuwabara twisting the tip of his finger into Hiei's cheek. "That sounds good to me. Got ya, you little twerp!"

"Would you mind terribly getting off of me, Kuwabara?"

"Hold on a sec Kurama," the big oaf answered while grinning triumphantly over the little fire demon.

EDDE:
Well, it didn't completely go unnoticed. Yusuke could feel the tensity that wrought through the redhead above him. But neither facing him, nor realizing just what the full impact of Kuwabara crashing into him could have done, he could only guess that it was for the pain he'd previously assumed would be there.

It took a moment to loosen his arm from underneath the lot of them. However, sharp eyes narrowed furiously as he snatched up the wrist of that large male in a grip that couldn't have been even the slightest bit comfortable. "Continue to touch me and I will break every bone in your pathetic hand." Perhaps that ferocity had a bit more to do with the horrible cuddling he'd pulled himself into previously, but Kuwabara had been warned once already, verbal or non. There was no pleasure in needing to keep his threat as simple as possible, but it wasn't difficult in the least. He was a very direct creature, after all.

Yusuke blinked a bit, noticing for himself how very serious the smaller being had suddenly gotten. It was a huge, and quite sudden escalation. Still, all he could manage to put toward it was a roll of his eyes. Usually their fights were entertaining, but not so much in this position. "C'mon Kuwabara. Get up already," he grumbled. Though if he were being perfectly honest with himself, it was pointed purely toward a want to offer his boyfriend relief from the strenuous position.

Fox:
Kuwabara leaped up at the threat, standing with his fists up in a typical street fight pose. "You wanna go Hiei? Get over here and I'll pound your face in!"

Kurama couldn't stop the puff of pained air as the big lug pushed against him to jump up into a stand. Moving from the pile despite the sharp, throbbing pain in his backside that demanded he stay still. Thankful Kuwabara was providing a distraction, Kurama hid his limping stumble by quickly correcting his stance.

EDDE:
Hiei couldn't be bothered to recognize the redhead's plight normally, let alone with the sudden agitation that actually had him bucking up to the ginger boy in a fashion that was quite unlike himself. The moment Kurama had pulled away, the detective was all but thrown off him that resulted in a resounding 'oof', and he was on his feet. Glaring the large creature down, his eyes narrowed sharply on the buffoon. "You're so accepting of debilitating pain; I won't stand in your way." Still, that smirk of his slithered across his face despite his obvious annoyance. "You come here, and I'll grant that wish of yours." Usually he would be on the offensive. Usually he would have taken him up on the offer immediately. But his dirty little secret had been revealed previously to the two onlookers. Kuwabara was too weak, and Hiei simply couldn't bring himself to attack the idiot dead on. He wouldn't stand a chance. It was why he hadn't seen fit to knock his foolish teeth in previously when the other attempted to pick fights.

Yusuke rolled onto his back, pouting and sitting up to glower at the smaller creature. He was about to make a snarky comment of his own, but Hiei's antics stopped him. On top of that, he managed to catch the ass end of Kurama's issue. The pout went from angry to veiled concern as he looked him over. His attention fell purely on his pained boyfriend. After all, it was Yusuke's fault he was in such a way in the first place.

And it wasn't like there was no pain there for him to soak in either. But the escalating fight and previously noted concern diluted it immensely.

Fox:
"You asked for it Hiei, I'll beat you all the way to Sunday!" Kuwabara declared before sprinting towards their smallest companion.

Shuichi calmly brushed the dirt from his clothing and sighed through his nose at the childish display. Though, he could tell the fire demon was truly at the point of causing him hard, Kuwabara had just pushed a little too hard after the forced cuddling. "It is Sunday, Kuwabara," he informed casually after giving his boyfriend a small smile and nod of his head. He would be alright; it was hardly a crippling pain after all.

"Eh?!" The lovable oaf hopped on one foot in his abrupt halt. "No way, it is definitely Saturday," he argued, his assault on Hiei seemingly forgotten.

"Midnight has passed some time ago. It is in fact Sunday, and Hiei is quite obviously already here." It made Kuwabara sputter.

EDDE:
Large crimson eyes focused sharply through the calm frown that crossed his lips. There was no question as to whether he was willing to cause the large fool pain through that look. He was literally asking for it at this point. He'd even just been given an out.

However, the teen stopped in his tracks in as uncouth a manner as usual. Those sharp eyes widened, blinking several times through the back and forth between the two. There was no stopping it. The feeling that bubbled up in him wasn't completely unfamiliar, although the easy release of it certainly was. There wasn't a chance to stop it. He bubbled into a heavy laughter, although it could be left up to debate which part of it he found so hilarious.

Yusuke had moved to standing himself, all but ready to step in if it were needed. Cause honestly, they all knew Kuwabara could take a beating, but there was really no telling how far Hiei would go with it. He paused himself, breaking into a chortle of his own. However it clipped off, a light 'woah' on his lips as he landed an odd look on Hiei. It wasn't unlike the smaller being to go from hot to cold and back again at any given moment, but with how pissed off he'd gotten after what Yusuke and Kurama had done to him, there was no expecting the sudden laughter he broke into.

Fox:
He tried. Oh he tried; but after Hiei burst out into cruel laughter Kurama simply couldn't hold it back. His laughter joined the fire demon's, though without the mocking tone. The fox found himself holding a hand in front of his mouth, trying and failing to at least muffle his exclamation of humor.

Kuwabara tilted his head and looked between the two demons. "Eh?" He looked at Yusuke completely dumb founded, as the more stoic half of their little rag tag group lost themselves in loud bouts of chortles.

EDDE:
And Yusuke returned that look before it rolled over the other two just as oddly. Was it really that funny? But somehow it only took a moment for their laughter to twitch his lips itself. And a heavy, jovial chuckle cracked through that large grin of his purely out of it's infection. He had no idea what he was laughing at, but man it was getting funnier by the second.

And just as the detective joined in with a proper chortle, Hiei's face went lax. His laughter clipped off so quickly it was insane. That stoic, sharp eyed look landed on the redhead within a fraction of a second and he drew himself up, not so much to cover up the odd need to have broken into the laughter in the first place, but because Hiei's hot-then-cold attitude really seemed to just work that way. "You're it, Kurama." It was almost snapped; that, perhaps, being a need for the faulter in his usually stoic nature.

For Yusuke, there was just no helping it. The sudden change in the smaller being forced him into a much more natural bout of his own laughter. Because that change in the smaller being was so freaking weird of a shift. And because that attitude of his could always be as entertaining as it was frustrating.

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
The fox forced himself to relax, trying to still his shoulders and calm his breath. He cleared his throat and righted his posture. "Yes," he agreed with a slight nod of his head. "It seems I am," and no sooner than the words left his lips the grass beneath his comrades grew sharp and pointed, jolting up in as wave that would stab through shoes should they be stood on too hard.

Kurama stood with his hands cradling his elbows, and an amused look on his face. "Perhaps you should have run sooner," he offered in a low droll as the wave of blades pushed the lot of them closer together.

EDDE:
Hiei jumped off even as Kurama slowed down. The straightening of his stance was the only preparation he'd needed. After all, he perhaps hadn't expected, but was hoping the redhead would provide more of a challenge than the other two had. Speed and agility were the only allies he needed to get away.

Yusuke took notice quickly, his laughter clipped off through a sharp gasp as he recognized it. Seeing Hiei react like that gave him a quick cue that he took up much faster than he usually might. He hopped right on up after him. Only he stopped on his own branch to witness Kuwabara's inevitable panic over whatever was coming. He wasn't disappointed, and the laughter he gave off this time was devious and teasing. "Thats right, dance Bitch!" It was sputtered out, only calming down as he caught sight of the smaller being zipping off. "Slow down, Hiei!" The warning was harsher purely for the giggle fit he was suffering.

A soft curse was the response. Apparently the smaller being had forgotten that rule once again. And without that speed, he'd be just as much of a sitting duck as Yusuke currently was in those trees. He hopped back down, sharp eyes roaming in every direction. He required a quick change in strategy. This was the challenge he was looking for. Waiting for the foliage to come after him would force him to avoid it in a similar way as the idiots should the detective join them on the ground. Not that that would prove difficult with his impeccable hypervigilance.

Fox:
This was truly far too easy, and he considered finding Hiei at a later time to reenact this game without the limitations. The continuing ache in his backside reminded him that he wouldn't be up for the task for some time, and decided instead to take what he could achieve in the moment, and savor it.

For the time being Yusuke was ignored. The tree he was clinging to could easily be manipulated as well, but the hopping pair in front of him was much more entertaining. A devious gleam came to his eyes as the blades shot up high, poking at them, herding the two of them closer together.

Kuwabara staggered and tossed his arms around in a comical attempt to keep balance. "C'mon Kurama that's cheating. Ouch! I'm not in training anymore, we're playing tag!" His own distraction kept him from noticing how close he was getting to Hiei; how close he was getting to colliding with Hiei.

EDDE:
The raven-haired teen watched on curiously as Hiei and Kuwabara drew closer and closer together. His mouth opened, either to say something, or laugh harder. He wasn't sure which, but he quickly clasped both hands over it to stop himself. They were his teammates, yeah. But this was just a game, and watching them dance around like idiots was way more fun than saving them would ever be.

Hiei was nimble, and he was getting the hang of being quick without being too quick as well. His focus was set on any number of things at the moment; his footwork, which direction the next onslaught was coming from, an immense swell of entertainment and excitement that on any other person might be thought of as a glee similar to that which Yusuke and Kuwabara had shown off so childishly previously. He was certainly not focused on the beings surrounding him.

If he were, he would have been put off that Yusuke hadn't been knocked from that tree, and possibly goaded at Kurama for his lack of focus because of it. After all, the fox should have no trouble knocking the detective right down with them to join in the 'fun'. If he were, he might have noticed much sooner that the path in which he and Kuwabara were being led would inevitably clash due to his innate ability to follow, understand, and adapt to patterns and changes in his environment as well as other beings. If he were, he almost certainly would have been dejected by the fact that the redhead hadn't moved and inch, and might even have fired a shot off at him purely to gain said inch even if it cost him a bit a pain in the process.

But he wasn't. He also wasn't complaining. Nor was he having any form of difficulty avoiding the movement of those plants despite how intricately they were coming at him.

Unfortunately for Yusuke's fun however, Hiei did manage to notice in the last moment that he was about to hit the brute. If it weren't for that large looming shadow of his however, he might not have. Quickly, too quickly for this game despite the fact that he cared little about that considering it wasn't his little legs using that speed, he turned and grasped Kuwabara by the shirt. "Fool! Out of my way!" Hiei really didn't play well with others. Through that grasp, he fully intended to use the rather perfect center of gravity he stood at in comparison to the large creature, to swing him fully, and easily from his escape path. Were he to have succeeded, he simply would have been on his way once again.

Fox:
With the fire demon's grip, Kuwabara had no choice but to swing and face him fully. "Let go'a me half pint!" He demanded loudly, stomping a foot. "Eeeeejee!!" The sharp grass stabbed straight through the soles of his shoe and stabbed at the bottom of his foot. Of course, Kurama wasn't cruel enough to cause his friends any true harm, so they didn't stab through the teen's foot.

The loveable oaf leaped up with a yelp and collided into Hiei. Their bodies were pressed uncomfortably close, and the red-haired fox was casually strolling over to them. "Hurry up Hiei! Burn it all down!"

Kurama came closer still, and a seed pod grew tall behind the teen's back. It drew closer before the seeds expanded and exploded in what sounded like fireworks. Another startled scream and in a reflex Kuwabara wrapped his arms around the closest thing and crushing it to his chest, just as a hand was rested on both of their shoulders. "Tag," he stated with a patronizing smile.

EDDE:
Large chocolate eyes could do little more than watch the comical proceedings as they played out, his covered mouth garnering a lack of response that allowed him to keep those eyes on the scene through its entirety. And because of that, it made the seemingly unfortunate turn of events for his fun quite fortunate instead.

He was able to catch both the ridiculous look of surprise that caught Hiei's face for a fraction of a second as Kuwabara bashed into him, as well as the narrow glare that began to encompass him just after and start to turn up on the ginger. Even better, he got to see the hilarious face that lasted even less time as Hiei recognized just as Kuwabara did that Kurama was closing in on them.

And better still was the quick attempt Hiei actually made in listening to Kuwabara and preparing to blow the plants away in a sudden panic. Yusuke didn't realize that it was because Hiei suddenly recognized that he was about to be frozen while pressed so uncomfortably close to the large ginger male, but that didn't mean those micro-expressions were any less entertaining to him. It only got better by the second, a sharp snort breaking through the barrier of his hands through the horribly wide-eyed expression that followed with a forced out 'urk' as Kuwabara practically crushed the small creature and forced him to lose his concentration in pulling up his own power.

But the best part. The thing that absolutely took that cake and forced Yusuke to fall into such heavy laughter that he nearly fell from his spot on that branch, was the utterly betrayed look that fell over the fire demon's features as they landed and stayed for a much longer moment on the redhead in a tone that he could only attribute to asking 'why'. Because that look fell over him as the two males were frozen in a pose that was so absolutely priceless it couldn't even be put to words by the dim detective. Well, he tried, but couldn't get a single full word out through the taunting, uncontrollable bout of laughter he'd fallen into.

There they stood, Hiei firmly grasped in Kuwabara's large embrace with arms wrapped so tightly around him that they nearly swallowed him up. Hiei's clutching grasp remained coiled in the fabric of the larger male's shirt, his arms folded and tucked so neatly against the both of them that they were literally the only thing holding them apart in the slightest. And they weren't doing a very good job of it.

And because of their height difference, Kuwabara's grasp had been taken high against the petite demon's shoulders. This had the resounding effect of pulling Hiei's cheek straight up against him right along with the rest of that little body.

As quickly as Hiei could recognize the flaw in his face that showed his distress over the situation however, it was rectified into a sharply laser pointed glare that could burn straight through boulders into those horribly playful green eyes. He reared up, ready to rip himself away from the giant idiot while simultaneously taking in a sharp breath to no doubt offer just as searing of a comment as those crimson eyes were casting; possibly even ready to strike out against putting him in such a horrible position.

Yusuke managed to break through in that moment though. "DON'T TALK!" Despite being able to say the two words through hurried response to seeing Hiei's readiness, he was forced to work through a bit more of that laughter, as well as a small fit of chuckles that assailed a face attempting to pull itself straight. It was just so hard, especially when that perfectly hateful look Hiei tended to wear so well landed straight on the detective for his interruption. If Yusuke had the capacity to focus on anything other than his attempt at calming down, he no doubt would have recognized every little bit of hostile intent that had been placed on the redhead a moment before had skipped right on over to him for the ferocious tensity drawn through him after having been slighted in the worst way yet through this little rendezvous of theirs.

"You can't..." He was even forced to gasp a bit for a breath in order to keep the chortling at bay. "If you..." More chuckles he simply couldn't hold back. "YOU'LL LOSE!" He finally managed to gasp out heavily, having taken the support of the trunk of the tree he was in quite a while ago in order to keep himself balanced through the horribly breath-taking thrill of the hilarity he'd easily gotten over by now despite the fact that his body hadn't seemed to yet.

The goading had the proper effect though, as once again that glare of his changed hands. It landed up on the bastard who had him so fully in his grasp it was nauseating to say the very least through just the slightest tilt of his head. And it only grew more fierce, because the babbled out words of the detective niggled right under his skin and sunk straight down to the bone. He would not lose to Kuwabara. He could not lose to Kuwabara. Not after the calamity and ridiculous display of idiocy he himself had just given off through this disgusting turn of events.

Fox:
And Kurama simply looked pleasant. The usual smile on his lips the answer to Hiei's betrayed gaze. He was tempted to end the game quickly, to capture Yusuke and allow Hiei the freedom he desired. It was cruel to do this to him, especially after the 'abuse' he'd suffered at the hands of Kurama and Yusuke; but despite Kuwabara considering him the most caring person he knew, the fox had a villainous streak.

Kuwabara looked mortified, squirming with the urge to either crush shorty with this bear hug, or break it off all together. When the redhead simply shrugged his shoulder, he glared down at Hiei.

"It is not me who you should turn pleading eyes to. Yusuke is your only chance at freedom. Though," he glanced at his boyfriend, who was laughing so hard he could barely talk. "You may have a difficult time of that."

EDDE:
The friction that melded between the glaring beings was so palpable it nearly sparked through the air between them. He couldn't fully blame Kuwabara, or Kurama for that matter, for the predicament that they'd landed into. However, that didn't mean that he could accept the situation even the slightest because of that....

But perhaps he could goad Kuwabara into losing quickly to be rid of the disgusting creature so closely pressed against his body. As he was sure was the case with Kuwabara for his frantic request in getting rid of the foliage quickly, he would also much rather burn to death than be stuck in such a position. Just as Kuwabara's eyes had narrowed on him a little further as their glares were turning deeper in goading each other on by the moment, Hiei's features softened. A smirk slithered across his lips and that overly cocky air encircled and draped off him in droves. "Heh," a breath that held little tone in it whatsoever; A chide for an apparent personal joke presumably pressed in Kuwabara's direction purely for the outburst the simple offering tended to garner.

"Oh, man." Yusuke was still breathing heavily, but the words that sounded like complaint drew Hiei's attention purely for the break it cause in his concentration in working at getting the oaf to be the one who made move, or spoke first. Leaning against the trunk of that tree in a far more relaxed position, his hands pressed gently to the bark near his face and head purely for the continued support it offered him, Yusuke had bubbled up into a thoughtful look. "Where's a camera when you need it?"

Fox:
Steam was practically puffing from the carrot top's nose, his internal rage building, and he could only manage to not run over there and pummel Urameshi's stupid face, by imagining pummeling Urameshi's stupid face.

Kurama chuckled softly and offered Hiei a patronizing smile. "Do not fret, I will attempt to make this quick, Hiei," he offered, just as the grass spiked again. The branch Yusuke was supported on, very abruptly retreated into the tree and left him to fall into the fate of the grass beneath him. The blades stabbed at Yusuke's feet, herding him towards the others, though, there was a small opening that would give him an escape route towards home.

EDDE:
Again, that glare settled on Kurama, though mostly for the fact that he drew his attention. Before looking away again, angry eyes remained planted just long enough to inform the fox of whatever threat happened to be on his mind for the heinous act against him.

He caught sight of Yusuke just as he wobbled and yelped. The detective could easily be ridiculously clumsy, although he tended to pull off a grace within it at the same time, as he did now. Through his stumble, he started toward the ground face first. Panic bubbled, and several curses rung through the night air as he reached out.

The moment his hand brushed against another branch he latched on, swinging sharply before catching another and aiming quickly through the next swing for a portion of the grass that hadn't stuck up yet. It took him a moment to recover as he landed, eyes wide and breath heavy for the excitement in catching up.

Blinking several times, a wide grin crossed over his features. "Tell me you saw that!" The boast was as overly loud as ever, but a moment after he said as much, he seemed to remember the grass once again. Looking around quickly, he caught sight of the opening he'd been given. And he shot off in that direction excitedly with a giddy chuckle. "Can't catch me~"

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
"Do try to get along," the fox offered, watching the detective tumble and fall and yet still manage to catch himself enough to land on his feet. While he did find the movement impressive, if only because of who was preforming it, Kurama offered no answer to the question or the goading. He simply ran.

The thrill of the chase was exhilarating, especially when they disappeared into the tree line, but Kuwabara's 'dog pile' was greatly hindering the experience. Rather than force it, he decided it would be best to save a full chase for another time and came to a slow halt. They were out of sight and sense of the two males who were undoubtably fully distracted by varying degrees of hated and disgust.

No call was let out to ask Yusuke to stop. He was sure the teen would notice the lack of pursuit and return on his own. If he wanted to trick the detective, it would have been far too easy. As it was, he simply rubbed his lower back to sooth the intensified throbbing.

EDDE:
While he was off like a light, he had looked over his shoulder to see if he were being followed since it had stood that a few times during this game the person who was it hadn't been doing that. When he was sure he was, that giddy chuckle started anew.

But it cut off abruptly suddenly as a thought struck him. "Oh hey," he called, looking over his shoulder just in time to see the stopped redhead barred by the trees he'd just run by. He slowed just enough to be able to pivot and scurry back.

Keeping his distance wouldn't matter if Kurama really wanted to catch him, so he didn't stop until he was a comfortable distance away to speak in a hushed tone. "Hey, I just remembered. I cleaned the house today. I know right where a camera is."

The broad smile that had stretched over his face dwindled away as he looked over the other teen. "Oooor," he offered cheekily through the attempt at hiding his concern from his face that didn't quite make it. "We could always just go home together and leave 'm there till they figure out we ain't comin' back." He really did want to get a picture of that. It wasn't like they'd get another chance for it. Still, the offer was there.

Fox:
"While that is tempting," he chuckled. "To pass up an opportunity as golden as this would be foolish." His tone was normal as opposed to Yusuke's hushed. "However," his eyes glanced up and to the side while he gave an innocent hum. "The thought of running to your apartment and back is not a pleasant one. I don't suppose you would be willing to offer me another convoy?"

EDDE:
He nodded. "Yea I thought so too." His head tilted a bit as he looked over the face Kurama was making. Why was it so Damn hard to read that look?

A puzzled look crossed his own, curious about that last word. "Isn't a convoy like a line of cars or something?" His confusion on the subject was understandable, really. Although, he did at least know the word this time, so there was that.

Fox:
A heavy sigh left his nose. The annoyance was short lived, but still experienced. "Wrong definition of the word. To 'convoy' is to accompany or escort." His lips pursed together for a moment, and he decided to try a simpler version of his request. "I am asking you for a ride," he clarifies simply.

EDDE:
He pouted just a little. "Yea I got that part," he informed lightly as he turned around and poked his tongue out over his shoulder. "It just sounded weird."

"Ah." He turned back around, facing the redhead. "First say 'time out'." It was an excuse to move closer to turn around for him this time. He didn't seem like he was in the greatest shape. Why make him move more than he needed to? It might not be needed, but that wasn't really the point of it.

"It's getting pretty late." The addition sprouted from a thought on his boyfriend's need for rest, though he didn't make the connection himself. "Yer gonna have to hold on tight, cause I'm gonna run."

Fox:
"Of course. 'Time out,'" he stated, and slid himself onto the detective's back with ease. As childish as this still seemed, he'd quickly learned how nice it could be. "It is a shame we cannot tell them about the short break," he chuckled, wrapping his arms firmly around Yusuke's neck and squeezing his knees tightly.

EDDE:
It was fortunate with the taller male's stature that Yusuke didn't need to lower himself to do this. That part was always so awkward. It used to be a hassle too.

A perfectly evil little cackle left his lips at the note on the game's pausing. "Oh well~" he all but sang as he reached down and back and hooked his wrists behind the redhead's knees. Shifting, he tugged him just a little higher than the height difference had allowed so that he'd be secure against his back and comfortable. There'd be less bounce that way. "This is nice," came a teasingly sing-songy tone. Although, just cause it was a tease didn't mean it wasn't true. He certainly had no qualms with his boyfriend pressed so heavily up against him. Admittedly though, he'd prefer it be in front rather than in back.

"Here goes." With that as the redhead's warning, the boy took off at a pace that gradually heightened into a run rather than simply breaking into a sprint.

Fox:
Kurama's response was an affirmative sound and a slight nod of his head that was used to bury his nose against the detective's neck. It was nice. It was very nice. His arms crossed over Yusuke's collar bone to grab his shoulders with the opposite hands. He was pulled flush against the detective's naked back, and he relaxed as much as he was able while still holding on.

The grip tightened as the detective began a run gradually increasing in speed. Crimson hair was lifted off his back as the air delved under it to leave it flapping in the wind. Yusuke was... so warm, and his scent was nearly as soothing as the warmth seeping into his chest; and he felt something very strange, though not wholly unfamiliar. Safety. Millennia of years of life taught him to always be aware, even when he wasn't. To always think, always plan, and always pay attention to what was around him. Here and now, he felt his mind go blank and the natural tension in his body melt away, so he could simply bask in everything Yusuke.

EDDE:
They hadn't traveled all that far from the apartment to get to the park in the first place, so it only took a minute or two to get back. The whole way, Yusuke was basking in the simple pleasure of the warm, comfortable fit of his boyfriend against his body. He stopped as they got to the stairs, looking up the flight thoughtfully for just a moment.

Usually he would simply bound right up them in two to three stair steps, but running on stairs was a lot different than running along the sidewalk or street. Especially like that. "Hey Shuichi," he questioned as he took the stairs one at a time at an even walk. "You could always stay here while I run back and snap a picture quick if you wanted." The option had always been there for the redhead of course, but he quite simply felt the need to voice it anyway. He had tuckered his boyfriend out even before his mother got home. And not only had they shared in another round of carnal bliss following that, but the game they were playing with their friends was taxing enough on Yusuke for him to recognize that it was probably pretty bad on the other teen. Especially with the pain he kept noticing cross his features.

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
"Hm?" Shuichi was only partly there in that moment, happily snuggled into Yusuke's neck and finding solace in the peace it gave. "That sounds preferable," he answered, though, the thought of losing his newfound safe haven wasn't a pleasant one, and the hold he had on his boyfriend grew a little tighter. "Then I suppose... 'Time in.'"

EDDE:
He smiled, pausing with a thoughtful look for a good moment as his grip under the fox's legs grew a liiiiittle more supportive. The stop, and look for it, was explained easily as a broad smile crossed right back over his features as he continued up the stairs. "Too bad no one's around to tell those bozos I lost," he chuckled out. After all, he was now moving and talking, and since Kurama was it, and could see that quite plainly, it definitely meant he'd lost.

As they got to the door, he blinked a bit as a thought struck him while turning the knob. He probably shouldn't go ahead and jump from the balcony in his room when leaving anymore. It'd make it really hard to lock the door, which they hadn't. "Hey Shuichi," he started as he stepped in, pausing in the doorway to tug off his shoes with his heals, and waiting for the redhead to do the same. If nothing else, he could use Yusuke's legs as leverage to get them off. Because he wasn't letting go. "You think if a burglar snuck into a house, and found out there was people in it, but then they didn't wake up or even move in the slightest bit, that they might go ahead and skip the killing the witness part since they're unconscious?" When he left again, he'd grab his key on the way out this time.

Still, he didn't let the teen down, still holding him in that supportive way. In fact, his grasp didn't even loosen a little in show of being willing to do as much. And he walked straight for the dining room. He stopped to observe the drunks, who certainly didn't look like they'd been stabbed or shot, so that was good. Then again, nothing was missing or messed up either, but that wasn't the point...

Man, they didn't look very comfortable.

Turning, he moved to the nearest counter. Tugging open a lower drawer, his smile broadened all over again, easily proud of the fact that there stood that camera, just as he'd thought. Not that it was anything fancy. Just a disposable. "Hmm..." He picked it up, checking the reel. There were still three left. He could decide if he wanted to take them all or not when he got back. He'd done a damn good job of those simple movements considering how very busy his arms were at the moment.

Within a few moments, they were back in Yusuke's rooms, he having no trouble carrying the thing while still supporting his boyfriend. "Last stop~" he hummed as he loosened his hold on the redhead to where he could slid his legs from his grasp gradually if he wanted, and regain his own footing.

Fox:
The fox lingered in a half-asleep daze, leaving his answer in a sighed droll. "If their intent was to steal and steal alone, then they would not go out of their way. It would leave too much of a trail," another nuzzle. "Though that is only if they are intelligent," the fox muttered as he awkwardly toed off his shoes while he was still firmly wrapped around the detective. He barely noticed as Yusuke grabbed the camera, only coming out of his happy daze when he was slowly lowered to the ground.

A moment was taken to ease some of the weakness in his legs. "Thank you, Yusuke." He didn't stall in sinking down onto the bed, first to sit, then to rest on his side while burying himself into the covers. "I apologize, but it is doubtful I will be awake by the time you return." Though, the warning wasn't needed. Already green eyes were fluttering shut, long red lashes resting on his cheeks.

Shuichi was cute when he was sleep; relaxed features and soft snores that were just barely audible. Clean, silky strands of hair framed his face and neck and perfectly accenting the lightly tanned skin.

EDDE:
The chuckle he had for the answer was soft, an automatic reaction to the heavy tone that was pointed at him. He hadn't been looking for an answer honestly. But he wasn't gonna knock it.

"No sweat. Any time you wanna ride, just let me know." He only turned around once the fox's full weight had left him and the light, almost groan his bed gave told him that weight had been transferred there. Turning around, he opened his mouth to comment back. But whatever he'd been about to say was lost as he watched his boyfriend curl comfortably into the bedding. It almost brought a groan to his chest. He would be suffering a great loss in having to walk back without the Shuichi's warmth against him.

He wanted little more than to climb into that incredibly inviting looking bed and join his redhead in that comfort. But before he could, he had to hurry up and go take that picture of their friends. There was an ever-familiar click in his features that the redhead didn't have the capacity to take note of in his current state as he had a light bulb moment. Stepping back, he lifted the camera and framed his adorably slumbering boyfriend. But there hadn't been a need to step back, so he replaced himself, able to frame him perfectly before pressing the button that let off a resounding 'click' that could actually be heard. And, of course, he looked perfectly pleased with himself for the candid shot he'd managed to take.

Fox:
A sleepy mumble and the fox nuzzled into the pillow after the sound of the click, but he was far too soundly sleepy to be woken by it.

Kuwabara was in hell, he had to be, it was the only explanation. His arms were fully wrapped around Hiei in an all-encompassing hug. The smaller body was flush with his own, separated only by the fire demon's arms tucked between their bodies. If it were a cooler body against his, if it were her bright crimson eyes gazing up at him this would be heaven. But it wasn't... it was Hell.

EDDE:
The glare Hiei had landed on the taller male hadn't lessened in the least. If anything, it had sharpened and returned to normal on several occasions. As it was obvious the idiot had felt the need himself, several short shots and angered words had raced through the fire demon's mind to spit out. However, even the fact that Kurama was not around, and therefor could not call them out for losing hadn't stopped him from remaining stoic. As soon as their presences had dissipated, this no longer involved a need to win against them.

The simple fact was that neither male was willing to lose against the other. And the fact that one remained stoic stopped either at any given moment from simply blurting out their discomforts. It was a literal standoff; a stare down. And neither would be backing down any time soon. They were lucky that the decision had been made for Yusuke to go ahead and come back. In all reality, the stubborn egos of the two males might have had them standing there like that throughout the entirety of the next day should they be able to battle the need for sleep and other common amenities.

As it stood, after a warm chuckle from the detective and one last looking over for his own mental picture, Yusuke had hurried right back out of the apartment. Although this time he stopped to lock the door. It hadn't taken more than a total of five or six minutes from them taking off for him to return. "Hey guys. How much fun is this, right?" The cheeky tease was simply horrible.

And five or six minutes had seemed to stretch into an eternity while they stood there waiting. Yusuke had the ability to unfreeze them. Instead, he pulled the camera from his pocket, pushed the charge button, and cooly waited for the flash to be ready.

Through a pure reaction that boiled his blood for the fact that the fool was taking even more time, as well as the fact that he was obviously planning to actually photograph this horrible scene, Hiei's skin heated a couple degrees. Nothing that would make the taller male much more uncomfortable than this position had to offer, but it was enough so that the warning of a close to snapping fire demon was clearly felt against that hold.

"Say cheese." He offered as he pulled up the camera. But he paused when all he got was a glare. "Hmmm..." With an amazingly quick witted thought, he added, "Ya know, I bet Yukina is gonna love this picture. After all," the pause was taken purely for the quick response through shocked looks from the both of them to snap that picture at the perfect moment. "She really loves it when we get along."

The shock was short lived. And wide eyes sharpened into a venomous glare. Kuwabara was not worth risking the threat on Yusuke's lips. He lunged forward, ready to take the matter into his own hands.

Fox:
Yusuke left, and with him he took the safety that had Kurama oblivious to the world. While he continued to slumber peacefully, it was not quite as deep, which allowed him to wake at the sound of the window creaking open. The fox turned his head and blinked open sleepy eyes to see his boyfriends adorable spirit beast perched on the sill. "Puu? What are you doing here, should you not be with Keiko?"

The little blue penguin puffed himself up in a tiff, flapping his ears and reaching out stubby arms to the red head. Shuichi chuckled and sat up slowly. "Alright then," he plucked Puu up into his hands and held him loosely to his chest. The window was shut and locked before he returned to the warmth of the bed. "Get comfortable, then do not squirm. I would not be able sleep if you do."

A large ear draped over his neck, and Shuichi nuzzled his nose into the tuft of dark hair before falling once more into a peaceful slumber.

In the forest, Kuwabara's relief at seeing Urameshi was short lived. The faces he was making were hilarious in his adamant attempts to keep quiet... Up until the point Yukina was mentioned. "WHAT?!" The flash of the camera went off, and Hiei and Kuwabara lost at the same time. "Don't you dare show that to my love!" He demanded, running after Yusuke faster than he'd ever run before.

EDDE:
Yusuke easily avoided the large ginger, although he had help from Hiei despite the circumstances. Because Kuwabara's reaction and quick lunge sent Hiei sprawling, again having gotten in his way. "FOOL!" It was growled out just as Hiei caught him by the ankle to return the gesture.

"Don't worry, I won't show it to her." And through the inevitable tumble Kuwabara took, Yusuke took his chance to get the Hell outta there. Maybe he'd try and convince Kurama to show her.

"You Damn ankle biter! Look what you did!"

"Oh! Game's over, by the way," he called over his shoulder. "I already lost, and Kurama already went home!" The two were distracted by their own squabbling, but he'd at least given them the news. Not to mention, he'd shoved the camera into his pants as he'd avoided being caught without need. Kuwabara wouldn't go in after it, that he knew for sure. And while he wasn't so sure about Hiei, he'd figured maybe, since he'd seen what Yusuke and Kurama were doing in the woods. So if nothing else, he could probably freak him out about getting so close and personal after everything else the poor guy had been put through tonight.

It didn't take him long at all to get back to his place. And he took the steps two at a time. Before he went back to his room however, he took note of the drunks once again and took the time to lay out a couple futons and put the bastards to bed. When he did make it to his bedroom, he was met with an adorable eyeful. Shuichi, as he was now deemed since they were alone again, was cuddling up to Puusuke as if it were a teddy bear. He didn't look as relaxed as he had earlier, but that changed as Yusuke drew closer. There was no helping it, because even Puu looked adorable enough to like in his newly dubbed boyfriend's arms.

There was one more picture on the roll.

Carefully, he slid onto the bed next to the other teen. He wanted a picture of that, yeah. But he also kinda wanted a picture of them. Why not kill two birds with one stone? Lifting the camera above them, he had no doubt he could even capture the three of them. That comfy hold was what made the view of his boyfriend so desirable at the moment, after all. Pushing the button, he had to wait a moment for the shrill little squeal of the camera charging flash before he could snap it. The light might wake Shuichi up, but he wanted to make sure the picture would come out.

Fox:
Had it been anyone or anything else that dipped the mattress the fox would have woken instantly; but it wasn't. It was Yusuke, and the detective's energy was soothing enough to have that slight tensity in his shoulders release. A sleepy mumble was muffled by the spirit beast's tuft of black hair, and Shuichi inched close, unconsciously seeking out his warmth.

The sound of the camera charging had the fox scrunching his nose in displeasure before it relaxed again. Yusuke's name was said in a soft, sleepy sigh that came from smiling lips.

"Puu?" Unwilling to move from his very comfortable spot, the blue penguin looked up at Yusuke, then at the camera with great confusion... but he decided it wasn't important enough and returned to snuggling deeper into the hold. This was the first time he'd been held by the fox this way, and he was, simply put, in love. "Puu~~"

EDDE:
Every little action the redhead took in his sleepy state made the detective soften a little more. Even Puu's response to his appearance was nice. By the time he pushed that button, a soft smile had melted his face; his eyes shining gleefully down on the other teen as his fingers sunk into his hair to pet at his bangs.

He startled himself with the flash however, a light jump taking to his form before he chuckled warm and low. "Sorry," he whispered softly before setting the camera on the nightstand. As soon as it was set down safely, he was moving to wrap his arms around the redhead, one slithering under the small of his back while the other rested higher, continuing to pet gently.

"Night." The offer was added through closed eyes, having positioned himself wonderfully close to that wonderfully heated body in a way that Kurama could all but crawl on top of him to get closer if he wanted and offers even more of that wonderfully warm attention. Now realizing he actually was pretty tired for the day he'd had he could really only sum it up in one word: Wonderful. That might be the only one he had right now considering how much he was using it to himself, but it fit so perfectly it didn't even matter. He'd noticed previously that the redhead seemed to really like to lie on top of him some way or another. And he had no qualms with being used as a pillow. Hell; he could make him a whole mattress if he wanted. As long as their bodies formed and fitted together as perfectly as he now knew they did, he could do it in any way he wanted.

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
The flash made him flinch before his eyes fluttered open to find his boyfriend resting beside him. He'd mention the fact that taking pictures of someone in their sleep could be considered 'creepy' in the morning. For now, the call of sleep was far too tempting; so, the fox slid himself flush against Yusuke's side and rested his cheek on the other teen's chest. In the process, Puu was shifted down to be held against his own chest. "Sleep well, Yusuke," he offered in a sleepy mumble before they drifted off into blissful slumber... For a while.

The light of the moon falling on the sleeping couple in wavering stripes made the thin sheen of sweat over Shuichi's neck and cheek glisten. It cast shadows across his face as it twisted in a mingle of fear and anger. Puu was being squeezed unpleasantly tight with his left arm, while the right lifted to cover his neck with a shaking hand. "Get away," he panted in his sleep, body tensing as if waiting for a strike.

EDDE:
Thanks to the event filled day the detective had no trouble floating off in the warmth of his comfy boyfriend. And he really liked the way that sounded. Shuichi was now his boyfriend. All in all, he was honestly glad his mother had come home.

It was Kurama's distress that again woke him from a peaceful sleep. A frown touched his lips as sleepy eyes peeked down on the redhead. Puu's grunted struggles were ignored for a moment as he gathered the fox's condition. While he was dreaming away about the day and future fun with Shuichi, the other teen was having more nightmares it seemed. It made him feel bad; guilty even.

Still, while one hand tucked into red bangs, "Hey, Shuichi..." the other circled carefully around a slender wrist and tugged it away from the crushing snare on the spirit beast just enough for it to wiggle out of his grasp and skitter to the foot of the bed. "Shuichi." Tired voice grew strong as he said his name again, wanting to wake him from the stressful dream.

Fox:
The sleeping fox whimpered when the beast struggled free, and flinched violently when Yusuke's fingers ran through the sweaty bangs.

Your hair is a bit damaged, Shuichi.

The remembered line was altered as Yusuke spoke his human name. The hand over his neck grasped it tightly, though not in a self-harming manner. "I said... Get away!" Kurama snapped, his eyes jolting open just as his body jumped away from Yusuke. His arm lifted to force away the hand in his hair with a strike to the elbow with his own.

Kurama sat up; the covers tossed away in the process. Fear and anger twisted his features into something cruel. The borrowed shirt was clinging to him, patches of cloth stuck to his body by sweat; sweat that dripped off of his forehead and plastered his hair to his face and neck.

EDDE:
"Ngh!" The pain that radiated through his arm at the blow was one that should have spoken to him. But aside from the sharp jitter than ran through him bodily as a natural reaction to a blow to the funny bone that sent tingles through his arm right along with that pain, it was fully ignored.

Both hands pulled away, but he sat up as well, and shifted in his spot so they were facing each other. The look on his face was a hard one; though not pointed at the cruel tone that had crossed Kurama's. And even though he seemed to be awake now, it seemed like he hadn't pulled out of the stupor his nightmare had induced. "Shuichi! Wake up!" While he didn't raise his voice, his tone was just as sharp as the look on his face through a want to snap the boy out of it.

Fox:
With narrowed eyes and slightly shaking shoulders the fox backed away from Yusuke as he sat up. His lips pulled back in a feral gnashing of teeth; a fox backed into a corner. The sharp tone only seemed to raise the boy's hackles and tense his muscles for either another strike or an escape attempt... His nose twitched.

The scent of blood was strong, and the scent of Yusuke's blood was overpowering. There was a slight shake of his head, and emerald eyes blinked several times before returning to the usual kind warmth. "Ah!" Guilt clouded his expression, and the suddenly very sober fox reached out to gently hold his boyfriend's arm. "I'm sorry, Yusuke I..." Kurama paused, looking over the wound and finding some solace in the fact that the cut was superficial at best.

Kurama hung his head slightly, hiding his face behind a curtain of crimson. "I did not realize it was you."

EDDE:
Chocolate eyes widened when his attempt only seemed to make things worse. Frowning, he was forced to pause in need of thinking what else he could do. Obviously this approach wasn't working. In the process, he backed off just a little, giving the redhead a bit of space. He could put two and two together when he needed to.

You should know better than to corner an animal like a fox... We have a tendency to show our teeth.

All at once Kurama seemed to calm down. The change had confusion muddling his own features. A soft sucking against his teeth for a pain he'd already forgotten was the response for the touch that had him jumping just slightly. His head tilted slightly as he looked over the change in his boyfriend.

The guilt was palpable, and it had his other hand reaching out to brush gentle fingers and palm against a hiding cheek. "I figured." The informative words were light, and the look on his face had softened all over again. "It's okay though. No real damage. And it ain't like you meant it."

He hunched down a bit in an attempt to get low enough to look up into those pretty emerald eyes. He wanted to fix this situation, but he didn't know how, or even if he could. "If you tell me what to do, I'll do it."

Fox:
He flinched at the kind touch, a touch he felt he had no right to after causing the detective harm. Even if it was nothing compared to the boy's previous experiences with pain, the fact that he was the one to cause it made it a terrible enough offence. He tried to look away, to turn his head in shame, but chocolate met emerald, and he simply couldn't pull away.

"You cannot take away my nightmares," he breathed in response. "Perhaps it would be best if I were to sleep elsewhere, at least until this phase has passed." Phase... Long fingers left Yusuke's arm to loosely wrap around his own neck, trying to wash away Karasu's almost touch. He hoped it was only a phase.

EDDE:
The pout that was offered to the redhead was purely for the suggestion that they part. He didn't skip a beat in his response. "Nope."

He'd obviously like it better if he could take them away for him, but the next best thing would have to do. Reaching forward, his hands landed on the outer edge of Kurama's shoulders as his focus on him sharpened. "I'm not gonna go away just cause you think it's a good idea, ya know. You're my boyfriend now. You're stuck with me." He smiled. "That means I'm gonna be here to protect you. And even if I can't step 'em, they aint gonna stop me. Got it?"

Fox:
Sad eyes blinked open wide as his shoulders were held and he looked up at the detective. With an expression still riddled with guilt he couldn't help the slight upturn of the corners of his lips. "I do not wish to harm you again, Yusuke," he answered, once more looking at the cut he'd left behind. It was hardly a scratch... but it could have been much worse.

EDDE:
He chuckled. "Yea? Well it might happen. So if you do, I guess you'll just have to make it better." The response was adamant. And Kurama was pulled into a tight, but gentle hug. "Now shut up and feel better already."

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
A confused noise left his nose as he was quite suddenly brought into a hug. It was warm, and just as comforting as ever. He couldn't stop himself from curling into the embrace; feeding on the offered comfort until he could feel his heart beat slow and his breath even. "If you insist," he answered in a soft breath.

With gentle prodding, Kurama got Yusuke onto his back once more, so he could rest his head over his chest. The fox rested his hand over the teen's heart, absently counting the beats; and just as he was coming to terms with falling asleep once more, his eyes fell on a few crimson strands. His fingers twitched before moving to touch them, running the red lock between the digits; and a question was awkwardly blurted out against his will. "Do you like my hair, Yusuke?"

EDDE:
It took just a bit to get him to lie down, not wanting to shift from the protective hold at first. But he pulled him right back into it the moment they settled. Sleep wasn't going to find him easy this time; not until the redhead had drifted off again, at least.

A curious noise hummed past his lips, the comfort he was getting himself from the hold making the sound a little lazy. His attention shifted to the hair that was being played with. It wasn't hard to think of that answer at all. It was a part of Kurama after all, and he liked just about everything he could think of about him.

"Course." The answer was simple, not that his answers always tended to stay that way. His own hand shifted to pet over sticky locks, not wanting to pull it. "I like it plenty. I like all the stuff you can do with it too."

A curious question came about from the answer. "How do you always make it look so good anyway?" Although, he had seen some of the care the other teen put into it.

Fox:
The flattery was usually enough to pull a chuckle free from the fox, as well as sooth away his worries. This time, a light frown touched his lips as the ends of his hair rubbed over his fingers. Split ends, and course. "Human bodies are so fragile. It is a bit... damaged." The question was ignored for the thoughts on the man who'd said those words.

EDDE:
A small bend in his back indicated he was looking closer, as did the bit of a squint in his eyes. "Is it? I didn't notice."

He relaxed again, although his hold tightened just a bit without his notice for the frown on Kurama's lips. "I guess." He agreed partially. The comment had him thinking on all the injuries the lot of them had taken on. Some of them were pretty damn gruesome. "But they bounce back pretty good too."

A thoughtful pinch of his lips came along with chocolate eyes roaming up toward his bangs and looking at them curiously. "I bet mine's pretty bad. You take way better care of yours than I do." A chuckle followed, and a tug to those bangs. "Maybe I should take better care of it. Then I could grow it out and do cool stuff with it too." He smiled down on the teen. "Whatcha think?"

Fox:
The fox hummed in absent agreement, unable to tear his gaze away from the ends of crimson hair. He could still feel the heat of Karasu's hands circling his neck, and the fear he'd felt in that moment was still palpable. Forested eyes were clamped shut against the thoughts, against the voice that rang in his head.

I don't have to touch you Kurama, it's just one of the perks.

"I doubt you would have the patience for it." The answer was cooler than he had meant it to be, and he added with a softer sigh. "But you would wear it well."

EDDE:
A softly annoyed sounding hum hit his chest as he puffed out a sigh. "Okay," he said before making the fluid movement of sitting them back up. "Sleep's done. Good morning. Whatcha want for breakfast?"

Still, he was petting at Kurama's hair carefully, though not pulling his fingers through the sweaty locks. "I think a shower, somethin' good to eat, and then a movie is just what the doctor ordered right now." He smiled down at the redhead. The distraction might help, and going back to sleep in such a state of mind was only asking for it to happen again. Besides, "We can always take a nap later if we need one."

Fox:
Shuichi was reluctant to follow but sat up with the gentle guidance of his boyfriend. Though, at the good morning greeting he turned to look out the window. "But the moon is still high," At the latest it was 4 or 5 in the morning; but the fox sighed and returned to place his cheek on Yusuke's shoulder, an easier target than his chest in their new position. A small smile worked passed the frown. "That sounds lovely."

Still reluctant to leave the detective's side, he wrapped his arms around him in a near childlike manner. The fox curled, placing himself in a position very few were able to see. Huddled like a lost kit, knees brought up to his chest and fingers grasping Yusuke's shirt. "Anything you wish to cook will be fine, Yusuke. I do not wish to be any added trouble." But a shower sounded wonderful. He was damp and sweaty, enough so that even the warm breeze was enough to make him shiver. "Perhaps something warm," he offered. Having a belly full of warm food sounded almost as good... but he couldn't bring himself to let go.

EDDE:
He had looked out the window too, not in disbelief, but with more of a 'duh' look on his face. He smiled at the addition. That was the point, after all. Again his arms wrapped around the huddled boy, nuzzling into his hair. "C'mon," he goaded gently. "A shower will help. And I'll make the best damned breakfast ever. I'm great with breakfast. This time I won't screw it up." The boast was soft, at least for Yusuke.

He seemed to think better of goading him though, offering a tight squeeze and just holding him for a nice, long moment. It seemed like Shuichi needed it, and he had no problem in offering. As he realized he was becoming a bit drowsy again after a few minutes however, he perked right on back up.

His squeeze grew a little tighter and he started moving. "If you want, I'll go with you in the shower since we both need one. And you can stay with me while I cook." The offer was meant for something else, but he explained it differently. "That way you can see how great a cook I usually am."

Fox:
Yusuke moved and his grip grew tighter, but relaxed as he spoke. "I would like that," he agreed in a soft sigh. His hold on the detective was released so they could both slide off the bed. The borrowed pants clung to his legs in the same way the shirt did. Soaking spots that stuck to his skin here and there.

"You will have to show me where the fire extinguisher is, just in case." The tease was lighthearted as well as halfhearted; an attempt to ease Yusuke's worry, and perhaps his own as well.

The detective was once more grasped tightly, though for a very different reason. The fox stood and a jolt of pain running from his backside and all the way up his spine reminded him of the amount of blissful abuse he'd gone through only a few hours ago. Kurama lost his footing for a moment, he hissed and stumbled and took hold of Yusuke's shoulder simply to stabilize himself.

It took a moment, maybe two, and the redhead righted himself with a sigh of relief. The sharp, shocking pain dulled into a constant throb that was on the boarder of painful and pleasant.

EDDE:
"Hey~" He pouted out at the tease. But he couldn't help but chuckle. "Actually, there's one in the kitchen, one in the entry way, and one down the hall." A thoughtful look struck him. "Mom went a little nutso about it after--Woah." The instinct to catch the faltering boy was automatic, and cut him off.

And he went back to pouting. "Did I screw you up that bad?" There was a pout, for sure, possibly a little guilt there, but the part he tried and failed to hide was the bit of pride that came along with it. Not for the fact that Kurama was in pain still, but because of how good he'd made him feel before that... And the fact the effect was lingering maybe had a little to do with it.

It wasn't like there weren't lingering effects for him too, but they weren't nearly as bad as the redhead seemed to be going through. And besides that, it wasn't anything he couldn't handle. He'd had a lot worse, after all.

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
His chuckle was light and airy. Already the effects of his dream were waning, though he could still feel those hands so close to his throat... Kurama flinched. "It seems you did, but do not let it get to your head too much Yusuke. This simply means I will have to return the favor." Though, when he took a step towards the bathroom and the sharp pain ran along his spine again, he added, "at a later date, of course."

"I believe I may be in need of an escort to the shower," he admitted with another sigh. Though, he was relaxing little by little. The normal, conversational tone was helpful.

EDDE:
A bit of a blush fell over his cheeks as he was pointed out, but it didn't stop a neat little growl of a noise from leaving his lips. "I aint got no problems with that." And it was an odd thing to notice, but he recognized the difference in the way he'd said as much as opposed to the new word they'd been having fun with earlier. It sounded way better than how he'd just put it.

Offering his shoulder again for support, he put his hand out for just a little extra in case his boyfriend wanted to take it to lean on further. "Want me ta wash ya up too?" It was a purr of a tease despite the fact he wasn't really willing to act on the connotation his tone held. Not with how bad off the redhead seemed to be.

He walked them to the bathroom, letting go once he was sure Kurama had his footing. Pulling his own clothing off was easy. It'd be more difficult for the other teen to peel his away, so he set to working at making the temperature nice and comfy.

Fox:
Shuichi rested easily against the offered shoulder. He didn't need the extra support of it, but he took Yusuke's hand regardless. "'Ain't' does not exist in the English dictionary, Yusuke," he teased lightly on the short trip to the bathroom. The detective was right in assuming he'd need more time to remove his clothes. The back of his shirt was plastered to his skin and clung to it as Kurama arduously pulled it off. "If you believe you can behave yourself," he answered, the tease only partially so. He didn't trust himself not to fall into his boyfriend's arms despite the grievous repercussions.

With a soft grunt the fox slid his pants down, finding them soaked at the caves and thighs. He equated it to the heat he felt in his dream, along with the scent of smoke and burning flesh. Kurama took a moment to examine his hair again. The poof in the back was pulled over his shoulder to let the fingers of both hands run through it. "I don't suppose you have conditioner, do you?"
Heat rose to his cheeks at the blurted question, and Kurama glanced to the side with his fingers still in his hair and the hunch in his shoulders. He didn't look at all like the confident man he always did. He looked... Meek.

EDDE:
"Yeah, yeah. 'Ain't' ain't a word cause it ain't in the dictionary. I heard it enough, and don't really care." He'd chided back both playfully and cheekily before he'd set to his task with the water. And at the moment he couldn't remember who exactly had drilled that into his head already, but he didn't care so much about that either. Also, he wasn't entirely sure he could behave himself, but he could always say he'd tried if nothing else.

"Hm?" The curious noise derived from the question. Chocolate eyes turned on the fox once again and he had to turn back toward the tub to avoid grabbing him up all over again in an attempt to sooth away that look. It wasn't that he didn't want to, but it couldn't be all that comfortable for his fox at the moment in the chill air. And stopping to do so again would keep them from the hot water longer.

"My stuff's two-in-one," he offered warmly. "But she won't care if you use some of hers. I do sometimes if I forget I need more when I go shopping." Turning back around he pointed the bottle of apple scented shampoo toward his boyfriend, indicating the conditioner still set in its place as well with a lazy point over his shoulder.

In that need of effort to change the mood, even if it were only a little, he couldn't help but tease a little cheekily as he showed it to him. "It's pretty girly though~" For emphasis on the silly tease he added a little shake to the bottle as he pushed it a little closer to his face.

Fox:
'Two-in-one' made him flinch. Hair products like that would leave his already damaged hair dry, and straw like. His fingers carefully curled in the strands until the ends scratched over his skin. A shiver accompanied Karasu's words as they ran across his mind once more. "It will do," the fox murmured, reaching out to take the bottle and look at the back of it. Most didn't realize just how much effort the redhead put into his appearance. Vanity was something he was doused in, but no one wanted to believe he had. The shampoo in his hand didn't come close to his standards; Shuichi's products were all natural and herbal, and cost a great deal more than anything at the grocery store; but, it would do. At the moment he'd take the two-in-one over nothing, just so long as it washed the crows touch from the mane of red.

Kurama had been so caught up in his whirlwind of thoughts, he barely registered Yusuke's tease, and his reaction to it was far from the norm. "That's fine." Being 'girly' wasn't an issue at the moment. Being damaged was... No, that wasn't quite right either. This meek fear was stemming from a touch that never was, but had come so close.

Stepping passed his boyfriend, Shuichi entered the shower and heaved a quiet sigh. The water soaked his hair flat over his shoulders and back. The front locks clung to his neck, collar bone, and chest. With the bottle in his right hand, his left reach up to his throat once more. Slick fingers pet over slick skin, running over it until the palm covered his pulse.

EDDE:
That silly look of his faded rather quickly. Well that didn't work. A careful, somewhat contemplative look fell over his features as the redhead stepped past him into the tub. The reaction he'd gotten the last few times things were brought up pertaining to Kurama and anything even remotely girly had been vastly different.

A slightly uncharacteristic straightening saturated his face as he stepped into the tub behind him. The cooler mist of the warm water bouncing from the fox and hitting him might have been almost shiver inducing if he weren't as suddenly distracted as Kurama seemed to be.

Well, what the Hell. He tended to blurt things on his mind on a normal basis. And the somewhat careful approached he'd almost taken on would have been weird anyway. Still, his tone was a little flat as he attempted to pull his boyfriend's attention to him more directly. "Hey Shuichi. Spill." The words were accompanied by a small shift forward that brought him closer, but not so close as touching as he evened chocolate eyes on him.

"Talk to me already wouldja?" The nightmare he'd attempted to pull the redhead from previously seemed to be the culprit to the unknowing teen. After all, he hadn't really cleared up since then. "Don't tell me a dream is screwin' you up right now?" For Kurama at the very least, the accusation sounded ridiculous. And his tone portrayed his disbelief of it.

Fox:
"Hm?" The fox blinked and the haze in forested eyes lifted with Yusuke's demand. He looked over his shoulder at the detective and found no solace in the flat expression. He turned away again, hand falling from his neck to fill his palm with the artificially scented shampoo. As sharp as the scent was, it was still enjoyable. Kurama could feel his boyfriend getting closer and allowed the proximity to sooth away at least some of the tension in his shoulders. "Dreams are your minds way of processing information. They recreate memories and distort them to match your emotions."

Thin fingers ran through the red mane of hair to spread the gel through them evenly. "So yes Yusuke. It is a nightmare that has me so 'screwed up,' as you so delicately put it." As he spoke Shuichi straightened; his shoulders relaxed and his posture became normal, and though Yusuke couldn't see it, the fox was forming the usual, placating smile he always wore. "Forgive me, I will collect myself quickly." It was only a dream, after all.

EDDE:
"Ah..." A pout crossed his face as his own words were repeated back to him. It didn't sound so great. And even if he couldn't see the more obvious part in that change in him, he could see the rest of it through a change in his stance. Not only that but he could hear it in his voice; and honestly, he could practically feel it in the air. Frustration that had hit him previously for the somewhat helpless feeling radiating through him over this mounted. But it also changed.

A heavy whine fell from his chest. He practically flopped against the redhead in wrapping his arms around him from behind, though not with nearly as much weight behind the childish goading for attention the action could have caused. "That isn't what I meant," he pouted out, his tone a little pathetic.

He didn't fully grasp the whole thing about thinking and feeling. Though it stood to reason he might not have even if he weren't saturated in a frustration toward his actions only seeming to make things worse.

"I want you to tell me what you're thinking... or feeling." Or was it both? Doesn't matter. "Or at least tell me about the nightmare."

A small huff-puff of a mixture of denial and determination pushed through him. "I know you said I can't fix it. But there should be a way I can make it better at least."

Fox:
Yusuke practically fell on him, and Shuichi nearly fell forward. The insistent pain in his backside was already throwing off his balance, but it was the surprise over the action that nearly forced his face to meet the tile wall. Thankfully, the graceful fox kept his footing as his boyfriend whined. Perhaps that hadn't been what was meant... but it brought about a prominent thought. Yusuke had never seen him weak, at least not in this manner. His physical prowess was meager compared to his teammates, Kuwabara included. In a flat-out brawl with any of them he was sure to fail. Kurama's greatest strength was his mind. It was always sharp, always calculating and always dependable. In fact, the group turned to his intelligence almost solely.

Exposing his physical weaknesses wasn't a chore... But being weak minded was just wrong. And while it was something that happened on many occasions, it was something he could never show.

No matter how much he wanted to expose himself to the detective.

He pondered in silence, fingers still lost in his hair. "Before our final match, I was confronted in the hallway by Karasu and Bui," he began in a careful tone. Obviously, the fox didn't want to give much away. "I remember his words clearly, just as much as the heat his hands created around my neck. 'Your hair is a bit... damaged, Kurama. Human bodies are so frail.'"

EDDE:
Yusuke simply stood there quietly; his cheek set against the fox's shoulder. He didn't want to interrupt him. Something told him that at this moment it was best to keep his mouth shut. Besides, he wanted to hear. He'd said so before after all.

But even after he'd stopped talking the detective remained quiet for a good moment. The shift that nudged his chin just over his shoulder and moved him that much closer probably spoke toward the fact that he'd thought about the tidbit of information he was given to satisfy himself enough to respond. "Yea well you sure showed him how 'frail' you are anyway." The boastful praise was probably almost too predictable really. Though to be fair, it was a somewhat complicated situation. Still, one could easily imagine the snarky look he had to offer in giving it despite the odd position. "You beat his ass to Hell and--"

The stop was short and travelled through his whole body as he finally caught up. Because Kurama had beat him down, including that stupid ruling or not. Kurama had come out alive, and that bastard didn't come out of it at all. So then... "I don't think I get what the problem is still," he admitted lightly through a pout. "He's dead and gone now anyway. So how come he's still getting to you?"

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
The combing through his hair was more comforting than cleaning. The shampoo had long since been thoroughly applied and rinsed free, but his hands came to a slow halt and the digits were pulled free as Yusuke spoke. As wrong as he was, the detective was trying to comfort him, and that alone was a condolence. His arms lowered so his fingertips could brush over the back of Yusuke's hand, and his head tilted enough to invite the teen closer. "I was powerless in that hallway," he tried again, having to pause afterwards to search for the right words.

In the end, he decided a visual aid was the best way to explain. The fox turned in his boyfriend's hold, then ushered Yusuke to turn as well. With the water pelting his back, and Yusuke turned towards the wall, he drew close enough to the detective that it was only comfortable due to their relationship. The raven hair wasn't long enough for him to tangle his fingers in, but Kurama wrapped his hands around the slender neck, hovering only a few inches from the skin. He leaned in until his breath tickled over Yusuke's ear. "Karasu could have taken from me whatever he pleased." Surely the detective could infer the crow's desires from what was said in the ring.

"I dream of his intentions. Of what would have been had I not been a necessity in Toguro's plans; the touch of a man who wished to hold my severed head for comfort." Shuichi closed his hands around the other's neck but didn't squeeze. "His death makes my fears irrational. That does not mean they don't linger."

EDDE:
His hold on the redhead grew more secure. They'd talked about fears before this. Kurama had confided his fear of failing the detective then. This kinda seemed like something totally different though. Despite the heavy hold he'd taken, Yusuke's chin lifted the moment the redhead started to turn. His arms released their grasp a little, then all the way as the movement continued. A slightly confused look rolled over his features but didn't stop him from following Kurama's lead.

The fox drew closer behind him and there was no stopping the warm chill that raced through his veins naturally from that closeness. He couldn't pay much mind to the hands near his throat other than to notice their position. The closer he got the more heat touched Yusuke's complexion. Breath on his ear forced a hot puff to billow from his chest.

But it caught pretty quickly as Kurama began to speak. And there was also no stopping that warm feeling as it trickled across him again in a much less comfortable, much colder way as the redhead carried on. Not due to the redhead of course, though it was pointed toward him. Or, at least, toward the rather vivid picture Yusuke suddenly realized he was being painted as it sunk in properly what was going on here.

Cause it wasn't like he'd never had a nightmare before. It wasn't like he didn't understand something like that. And more still, the tangible scene was recognizably jarring even to someone even as dense as he could be. "Mph." His own hands lifted, and his fingers coiled around and under the ones pressed to his throat. He gave them a light squeeze.

The detective turned his head enough that he could peek at his fox over his shoulder. A frown was pulled across those lips that usually shone brilliantly with the opposite; eyebrows etched together for a feeling being shown to him that he couldn't fully comprehend but somehow managed to empathize with well enough anyway. "No fair," he complained lightly. "How'm I supposed to make that better?"

Kurama could answer if he wanted. Because Yusuke took the time to turn around to face him again, fingers finding their place laced in the other's again as he peeked up at him as a softer look permeated his face and eyes. "I ain't tryin' to tell you to get over it, ya know," he added lightly. "I'm askin' you to let me try to help even if I'm hopeless."

Just because he didn't know how to do that, per say, didn't mean he didn't want to try.

Fox:
When Yusuke looked behind him, he found that cover smile on Shuichi's lips. As well as pity in his eyes. "You cannot," he admitted, knowing it wouldn't be what the protective teen wanted to hear. He would have apologized again, but he reminded himself of the conversation they had on the boat.

He apologized too much.

The fox stepped back enough to let the other turn. His hands began to fall back to his sides, but Yusuke's fingers caught with his and Shuichi lightly squeezed their hands together instead. "Nothing but time will send away my night terrors," he explained further. After a long pause he added, "However, I have returned to myself much quicker waking beside you, than I have alone," he offered in condolence.

EDDE:
He wasn't sure how often he'd ever noticed how odd that smile was before. But having seen something totally different from him now made it seem almost like it was screaming at him. Whatever was off about the look, he wasn't sure what it was really, it really bugged him. And of course that wasn't what he wanted to hear. But the question had been pointed at the fact that he had already recognized as much, so it wasn't as hurtful as it could have been.

Yusuke was certainly a protector, and to feel so helpless in such a situation could be perfectly devastating; although the addition raised the dashing of his hopes just a little. Besides. He couldn't get all moody at a time like this. It'd only make things worse. "Mnn~" a thoughtful hum rolled from him lightly as the grip he held on the fox's hands loosened.

They pulled away to press forward and land on his hips as he drew just a little closer. "Well I guess that parts good," he offered in that tone that was so normal for him, but sounded so devious to others. And the smile he landed on the redhead resembled it. "Cause I plan on makin' you sleep with me all the time now."

Chocolate eyes lit up all on their own, the teen having resolved himself before the change in mood occurred. "It's better'n nothing anyway. And besides. I was already thinkin' that'd be a big part of how I'd help you in the first place." He chuckled lightly as he reminded him of what he'd said earlier on when the redhead had attempted an escape in fear of hurting him further. "Don't forget. You can't get rid of me now."

Fox:
Yusuke shifted closer and their hands parted ways, only for Yusuke's to fall on his hips. Naked in the shower, with his arms draped over the detective's shoulders and their bodies so close they were inches from touching, this scene could be something much more perverted than it was. Instead, it was soothing to his still frazzled nerves and offered a solace that had begun to slip away. The placid smile became a little more... normal. "I believe I will enjoy that immensely," he assured. The few nights they'd spent apart after returning home had been difficult; waking up soaked in sweat and fighting away an enemy that wasn't there. It took him several long minutes to realize where he was and many, many more to calm down from the panic and rush of adrenaline; and it was all done in fear.

He may still be a little strung, but he wasn't afraid.

"Perhaps not," he agreed before huffing in amusement. "However, you should run while you still have a chance," he leaned in to touch their noses together. "Wait much longer, and you will never escape me," the teasing words came just before he captured Yusuke's lips with his own.

EDDE:
"Hmmm~" He took the kiss happily, but tugged just a little away to respond. How could he not? "Seein' as how I ain't got a problem with that right now..." He gave a peck to those pretty lips presenting themselves so flawlessly. "I guess I'll have to figure it out if it ever changes." He didn't think it would honestly. He got drunk off this man, and the warm tone as he teased certainly said as much toward their togetherness. He offered another peck. "Either that, or I guess we'll just have to live with each other forever," he added happily. And this time, he returned that kiss that had been reached for initially. Melting into the closeness so long as his teasing wasn't taken poorly and allowed it.

But honestly, he mostly expected to get a cruelly painful nip to his lip or something to that extent for the words he'd had to offer if they were taken bad. Cause he'd taken the poorly placed ones back just as quickly as he'd said them with his follow up. Yusuke wasn't one who could remain smooth forever. But he did have a great capacity for smoothing things over anyway despite the great lack he could have. And besides. The poorly placed words had been placed purposefully. So he was willing to take what he got from it as long as it didn't pull his new fox away from him.

Fox:
"That is an existence I can look forward to," the fox assured before his lips were captured again. Yusuke's words weren't taken poorly, but he did get several nips as Shuichi tried to convince him to do the same. Green eyes fell closed and he sighed contentedly while working their lips together. The softer pair caught a chapped lower lip between them for a gentle suckle. He ran the very tip of his tongue over it, then teased with the intention of slipping it inside to devour his boyfriend; but he couldn't. The fox was well aware that they would get swept up in the moment once more, and his body was simply too tuckered out. So he pulled back slowly, letting their lips peel apart with a soft sound. "We should finish washing," he state with great reluctance. There would be a time when his body would be able to keep up with their desires. It just wasn't now. Besides, using shampoo and not conditioner on his mane of hair would leave it feeling prickly.

Pulling out of the detective's hold, Shuichi turned to face the spray once more and tilted back his head to re-soak his hair before gathering the conditioner. It slipped through his crimson locks and allowed his fingers to slide through them without so much as a tangle. "This is meant to sit for a few minutes," he started, doubting Yusuke took the time to think on things such as hair care. When he looked over his shoulder, his smile was warm again. "Shall I wash your back in the meantime?"

EDDE:
Happy little hums caught in his chest and didn't make it all the way out as his boyfriend teased and tested at his lips. And there was no stopping himself from nipping back given the little nudges and small openings either. And it was just as he was really getting in to that closeness and a real want was starting to trickle through him... that Kurama pulled away. "Uhn~" The look that fell over him was probably much more pathetic than what he was even trying for as he whined heavily over the loss of that closeness, a heavy huff piercing his chest as the taller male turned his back and gave him just another delicious view of himself.

And damn it all if he didn't suddenly smell just as delicious as he looked as he spread that conditioner through his hair!

He really didn't want to put any more strain on Kurama. He could tell he wasn't in the best place already because of all the playing they'd done already. So even though his mind was still placed firmly in that spot he did what he did best. And he attempted to lighten the mood for himself.

Instead of responding to the fox's informative... information, or his question, a sly smile slithered its way over his face in full view of the redhead even as he was looking over his shoulder. "Nah. I got a better idea~" he cooed out deviously as he moved closer all over again. His hands drew up and fingers flexed in a form that mimicked that of a hungry monster. "You smell goood~" he added just as deviously.

While it was only a couple inches, he stalked closer in a predatory fashion. "Mmhm~ You smell like apples~" he continued as he stepped up on him. "I'm gonna eatcha!" With that those 'claws' of his drifted down and wrapped around Kurama's stomach to pull him close. And his face buried against the fox's shoulder as he chewed on his shoulder lightly, but childishly, making ridiculous 'nom'ing noises as he did so.

Unfortunately, he was forced to paused within a moment. And he also was forced to turn his head and hack. "Ugh! The human defenses~!" Much like a cat that had smelled something truly offensive his mouth opened, and he began breathing heavily across his tongue. With a light sob and a quick lean around his fox, he shoved his face into the falling water to catch it on his tongue.

"It smells like candy but it tastes like buuurniiiing~" Tears even formed in his eyes from how utterly horrible the contrast in taste was from the lovely smell. Though after rinsing his mouth out a bit, and still leaning past Shuichi at the waist, curious chocolate eyes turned back up on the redhead through a rather visible 'aha' moment.

"Oh hey. We should totally carry around shampoo with us when we're fighting off demons. Maybe they'll think twice about eating us~" The devious look of a boy who thought he'd had a rather 'genius' idea was evident. Never mind the fact that what he'd just gotten a mouth full of was conditioner, not shampoo. But somehow that sudden thought certainly made sense enough in the moment to bring it up almost seriously.

Fox:
Confusion marred his features in a way that would be normal to others, but looked over the top just because the expression was on Kurama. "What on Earth are you talking about?" His words warbled at the end as his quizzical tone fell into amused chuckles. Shuichi didn't fight the hold, in fact he was happy to lean into it. Even if it did bring him closer to the mouth of the 'beast.' His head tilted for the talented mouth and let his eyes slide shut. If Yusuke wanted to pass those minutes this way, then who was he to stop him?

A harsh snicker pulled a strange sound from usually well kept fox, and it escalated into chuckles then into all out laughter. "What were..." Kurama was cut off by a short fit of chortles. "What did you expect it to taste like?" Watching Yusuke trying to wash out the terrible taste only continued his humor; though, he forced himself to calm. "If a demon is bent on eating you alive, than I truly doubt a bit of soap would deter them," he pointed out. "Though, for whatever it is worth, the demon is sure to feel ill afterwards. A 'last laugh,' so to speak."

EDDE:
The raven haired teen stood up and showered on a far too proud posture for the silly thought he'd shared previously. Because Kurama had agreed with him to an extent. And that was the only part he really cared about.

"Damn right! Take that monster! Innnndigestiooon~" he growled out 'victoriously' as he mocked punched at the shower screen beside them. Hands on his hips, he broke into a victorious laughter that was just as exuberant as ever. After all, it was meant to be his 'last'.

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
Kurama turned to watch the show, but also tilted his head back to rinse his hair. It felt smooth and soft; healthy, which was a comfort after his nightmare. "I would say that you have lost your mind," he teased softly, his eyes dancing with good humor. "But I am not entirely convinced you had one to begin with." Such words could be seen as cruel, but the soaked redhead was still chuckling and his smile was small, but real.

EDDE:
As his maniacal laughter died down, his ears burned as he caught that little shot rather well and pretty quick. "Hey." Through a pout the man-boy stared him down over his nose as he lowered it to land that look in him.

"You better watch it or I'm gonna give you indigestion." Why the Hell had that sounded like such a good comeback as he'd thought it?

Some color hit his cheeks. And warmth accompanied it. "Er... that didn't come out like I meant it to." Hell, wasn't he just a good little boy who proved painful points so well? He sighed lightly and hung his head. "I wonder sometimes too," he admitted in utter defeat.

Fox:
An elegant brow lifted at the comeback that only seemed to prove his point; but he didn't have the heart to gloat in his own prim and proper manner. "It is there, Yusuke," he assured without a hint of a tease. The fox poked the delinquent's forehead both to get his attention and make a reference. "You just forget to use it." He envied that. Kurama could never stop thinking, part of him was always on guard and his was constantly planning; playing out various scenarios in his head in order to prepare for them all. Somehow, Yusuke gave him a small reprieve from the constant workings; but it would always be a part of him.

"Now, would you like me to wash your hair as well? Or shall we depart for the kitchen?" He didn't feel like falling into another sappy moment, he would much rather work on returning to normal, so he changed the topic.

EDDE:
The pout he had to offer as he looked up was rather pathetic; but also adorably hopeful at the warm words spoken toward him. After all, it was freaking awesome to be praised by Kurama on any occasion. Even if it was just a little bit; or Hell even if he just took it as much considering one wouldn't usually see praise in being told they didn't use their brain. And to be lifted up so quickly after having deflated rather abundantly just made it that much better. So as the redhead finished that thought the soft, warm smile he tended to shower him in so often lately drew across his lips.

A bit more heat than the last time followed it and spread over his face as the question was asked of him. Because he did want to move on to the food portion of their morning plans considering the challenge he'd given himself in producing a proper meal for him. But to have Shuichi run his hands through his hair in close to that same caring massage of his scalp that he used on himself sounded like an absolute treat. It'd probably be nice and relaxing too judging by having watched how meticulous he'd been.

But asking for it made him feel somewhat pathetic all over again. Like a child asking for help with something he could do just as well on his own, purely for the contact and attention. That didn't stop him from answering though even as his face heated enough that it was easily visible in a blush over most of his face.

He had to look away from forest eyes as he did answer though. There was a chance he felt a little guilty for wanting such a comfort when he couldn't provide it very well himself. But if it was there, he didn't fully recognize it. "Actually, the first one sounds really good to start with."

Fox:
"Cute," he said playfully. Yusuke going red face with embarrassment was a lovely look he was just learning existed. The fox was eager to find out how many new expressions he could force from the detective. "There is no need to be embarrassed," he cooed, filling his palm again with the sweet-smelling shampoo. "There is nothing shameful about enjoying a bit of pampering. I feel that is one of the perks of having a boyfriend." That word still sounded strange on his tongue. It wasn't a term used in the demon world. And yet it was also pleasant. "So try to relax," he said, sliding his fingers into the raven locks. At first the washing wasn't anything special, but once the fox was sure the shampoo had been spread evenly, he began the pampering portion.

Deceivingly delicate fingers rubbed at his scalp with kneading movements, while his thumbs pressed small circles over his temples.

EDDE:
As was most likely expected the detective turned chocolate eyes back on Kurama as he used that word. He bubbled up into a bit of a pout against it. But he didn't deny it. Honestly, with the way he'd just acted he could visibly see himself in his own mind. And cute was probably a word that fit it despite how much he might not want to admit it.

He really liked it when the redhead said 'boyfriend'. Just thinking it to himself made him feel giddy enough. But having it said aloud, and especially by Kurama for some reason, affected him even more; so much so that the bubbly look faded quickly as soft chocolate eyes looked over his water drenched redhead as he started applying the soap to his hair.

The lack in the beginning gave Yusuke a nice long moment to appreciate what the water did to soften the fox. With his hair drenched down and streaking over his sleek, soft skin and making forest eyes look somehow bigger and doughier; Shuichi turned absolutely edible in the shower because of this. Rough hands reached out and followed the trail chocolate eyes made over his chest, down his hips, and across his thighs. Then they followed back up.

Why did it seem like it would just be way too damn hard to pull his hands away and stop touching? And that touching had his insides cooling and a heavy shiver rolling through him.

Not only that, but because of that slowly mounting frustration, when dexterous fingers began playing over his head in nearly as pleasurable of a feeling as any of the things he might be thinking of as his brain planted itself in the gutter through his own pets, it caused a warm, happy moan to roll from his lips as he closed his eyes against it. It was insanely calming. And it felt so freakin good he almost didn't know what to do with himself.

His petting had paused at Shuichi's hips, and he took hold of them in need of their support as he came close to leaning forward to take all the support he was willing to offer. How come he never knew how good it could feel to have someone wash your hair for you?

Through a happy, though slightly frustrated hum chocolate eyes drifted open a bit and took in the view of his boyfriend all over again. But instead of making an insistence toward the small jump his insides gave at the sight of him all over again, he made a comment toward the relaxing massage that was barely helping him get past the great thrill and want looking him over sent through him. "Yer gonna put me back to sleep if you keep it up." It was followed by a warm chuckle, the informative statement neither a complaint nor accusation. Simply that; a statement.

Fox:
The shampoo slicked back the detective's hair in a similar manner to his hair gel, just... a little softer. Yusuke shut his eyes and hummed his words, and the fox cradled the teen's skull in his palms for a bit more leverage. The pads of his thumbs continued to rub small circles, while his other fingers scritched and scratched pleasantly over his scalp. "Be careful, Yusuke," the fox chided playfully. "You a very quickly leaving the realm of 'cute,' and descending into 'adorable' territory." Still, he continued with his motions. "However, I do find it to be a good look on you. It is not often you are seen so relaxed, at least by these eyes."

EDDE:
He hadn't been joking when he'd said it. Or, at least, he hadn't been off about the somewhat lazy feeling the relaxing treatment had pressed upon him. It tugged him right on over the initial comment at a loss and had him responding the other. "Heh. Well you can get ready to get used to it. Yer gonna be seein' so much of me you'll get sick of it," he chuckled out cheerily.

Granted, that chuckle cut off and a short look focused sharply up on the redhead. "Hey. But that don't mean I'm gonna let you get away with cheap shots at me like that so easy all the time." Then again, with the shorter male practically leaning on him for support and clutching his hips for purchase... Could he really complain as he had to look up into those gem eyes in order to offer a threat that was so lack luster it couldn't even really be considered one? Because even though he'd made a smooth transformation from near purring kitten to kicked puppy, there was barely a difference there.

Fox:
"What makes you so sure I will grow weary of you?" The fox questioned, opting to skirt around the detective's adorable expression in order to make regaining it easier. Besides, it wasn't much fun if Yusuke didn't bubble up about it like a huffy toddler throwing a tantrum. Kurama had to stop an amused expression. Instead, he once more cradled his head, but this time to tilt it back and into the spray of water. The shampoo rinsed away, leaving the previously gel hardened hair soft between his fingers. He wondered how much more so it would be, should they use his own hair products. "This is not the first instance in which you have said as much," he continued.

Pulling them back into position, the fox worked to gather conditioner and repeat the massaging process. "I am a man who knows his own desires, Yusuke," he stated simply. "If I did not want to see you regularly, then I would not have pursued you at all. So I return those words. You have agreed to be my boyfriend, remember," again that term gave him a giddy feeling that he repressed for later contemplation. "You will be seeing much of me as well. I hope you do not grow ill of my presence, for I have no intention of becoming so of yours."

EDDE:
Yusuke was intent on keeping lazy eyes on the redhead, but the spray of the water thwarted him; or at least the natural flinch against it did. But it was fine because the continued massage as he leaned back was just as relaxing and calmed his features. Although it didn't allow for him to peek back up at him again until he was able to lean forward again. Some of the bits he did catch caused a bit of heat and color to roam his cheeks.

And when he did open his eyes, a distinct lack of presence sat in his features as he was spoken to. Even as he attempted to kick his brain into high gear to follow the complicated process of words that were pressed on him it seemed like that might almost be making it work. The blank but thoughtful look lasted more than long enough for his boyfriend to realize he'd mostly lost him. But when that word was used again the stark nothingness did grow a little giddy despite that.

Finally, he chose to focus on the last of what he said. And it was a lot easier to decipher the smaller portion for himself. A cheeky grin finally cracked across his face as he teased out his response. "Nah. I ain't got a good enough attention span for that."

In saying as much however, he'd both proven and disproved the statement all at once.

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
The fox sighed with a hidden smile as he rinsed out the remains of the conditioner. He doubted Yusuke was one to care about leaving it in. "The point, Yusuke, is that you need not worry. I will not become sick of your presence, so long as you do not grow sick of mine," he tried again. Dumbing down his speech would be a challenge, but one he found himself looking forward to. A new game to find out just how much Yusuke did understand, despite the detective's apparent empty headedness. "Now," he continued, releasing Yusuke's head in order to run his fingers through his own hair to be sure of its cleansing. "I believe I was promised breakfast?"

EDDE:
He relaxed into the thorough rinsing almost as well as he had the scrubbing he'd gotten before; only a little less since he had to balance a bit more as his head tilted back to avoid any more burning sensations during this shower.

But his lips pinched together a little in show of his thoughtfulness at the response to his own. That hadn't been what he meant at all... although now that he thought about it, it wasn't hard to understand why Kurama might have thought he was mentioning a lack of understanding of what he'd said. It had taken him a few moments.

Chocolate eyes were soft and a warm smile sat on his lips as he watched the redhead return to his own hair. His initial thought on the matter was a little pride for having said something that had gone over the witty teen's head himself. Unfortunately he burst his own bubble by reminding himself that it was more likely he'd actually thought he was too dumb to get what he was saying at all thanks to his word choice and not that he'd cleverly fooled him.

It pulled a heavily puffed sigh from his chest and deflated him just a little. But still, Kurama was moving on and he hadn't even given himself enough time to decide if he wanted to let that slide or not.

So, he quickly decided 'not' and broke into a small bout of gleeful chuckles. He couldn't help it. Though whether he was simply pleased by the fact that he had understood that bit he'd responded to, or thoroughly amused as his newly dubbed boyfriend skipped over it so flawlessly, he wasn't sure. Maybe it was both.

The grin on his face straightened and flowed into a smirk that offered a bit of a sultry lilt. "Dont worry. I'll make sure to fill you up real good," he all but purred. "We got a full day today. Wouldn't wanna leave you hungry or anything," he added normally as he shrugged and couldn't keep the sharp tilt of his own amusement from his lips even as he bit the bottom one to make the attempt. Oh well.

"And by the way," he finished in the same catty tone he'd started the silly tease in. "What I meant is that I'm not gonna get sick of you any time soon." He moved closer, his hands landing on the small of the redhead's back and he tilted his chin up to look him over pointedly through those warm cocoa eyes. "So don't go getting any ideas about trying to avoid me or anything..." At least that was mostly what he'd meant by it.

That thoughtful pinch touched his lips again for a moment before he let off another warm chuckle. "Although if you do end up wanting to play hide and seek I guess that's fine. I'll always find you." The heated threat was really anything but one.

Fox:
Sighing in amused exasperation, the fox couldn't help but smile at Yusuke's innuendos. Spending all day 'feasting' was a nice enough thought, but perhaps at a later time in their relationship. Once he'd gotten used to being, well, used in such a delicious fashion. He doubted he'd be able to handle another round for several hours at least, maybe even all day. Then again... there were many ways to be filled. He had to resist the urge to lick his lips. Yusuke tasted divine.

"Oh?" He was popped from his own dirty musings by Yusuke's correction. "I am glad you have the attention span to listen to me," Shuichi praised. "And even more so to know you have such an affiliation for me." With a hearty laugh, the fox turned off the shower to leave them in a room of warm steam. "Is that a promise, Yusuke? I do enjoy a good game. Especially when the stakes are so... inviting."

With great care, Kurama squeezed out a good amount of moisture from his hair before moving to leave the shower. "I apologize for asking again, but may I borrow another set of clothes? The attire I arrived in isn't the most comfortable, I admit. Next time, I will remember to bring another set."

EDDE:
He had the attention span to listen. The look on his face spoke of the slightest offense. It was only a little though. Because even though he had the attention span to listen Kurama hadn't been wrong at all in his assumption that he might not have the attention span to decipher what he had heard. It had been why he quickly understood how he'd turned his own words against himself and had caused the confusion in the first place.

The slight offense drained from his face as quickly as the color of heat lit it up a little. Maybe that hair washing hadn't been as relaxing as he'd initially felt. Because the returned flip of his heated comment being turned on him burned him just a little deeper. It didn't hit him hard enough to make him sputter or react in that silly exuberant way of his. But it did soften his eyes and lower his chin to force his stare to hide a bit under long lashes. Why had he heard that response in a far sultrier manner than the tone had actually portrayed?

Thank you, change-of-subject! He barely recovered in time not to be embarrassed over his own blunder. His body was far too ready to heat back up into a want Shuichi wasn't ready for. It didn't really seem fair. He felt more than a little guilty over it.

"Course you can," he mentioned lightly before he managed to find his normal tone. "Too bad the circus is still in town though. I mighta had the mind to make you walk around my place without any for a while if not." A warm chuckle followed. Their previous shower was in no way forgotten.

He led the way to the bedroom through a hallway that was just starting to find some light of the morning once they were both covered by towels. It was a quick lead, in case idiots had gotten up and were just as belligerent with a hang over as they were drunk. And the door was closed the moment they were both behind it. Honestly, this was more for his boyfriend's protection and comfort than anything. Usually those guys didn't get to him so easily. And they'd been around for freaking ever. Having grown up with their idiotic natures and horrible understanding of privacy and personal space no way they saw or touched him could produce any other reaction than a swift jab that landed hard enough to actually affect them through their drunken haze.

He opened his closet and two top drawers. Under things, pants, and shirts were exposed. "Ta dah~" Yusuke had a pretty impressive wardrobe despite the very specific sort of clothing he tended to wear more often than not. But favorites were favorites and who needed new when the old worked out so damned well for him? "Take yer pick."

He was quick to pick a pair of light, fitted jeans and a loose t-shirt as usual. Though he changed it up just a little and chose a dark emerald one instead of the plain white he favored.

It wasn't until after he'd gotten it on that he wondered why. But looking over at his boyfriend to see how far he had gotten had him realizing instantly as chocolate gaze was quick to find forest eyes.

Yeah. It had probably made him think of those eyes he liked so incredibly much. And he'd grabbed it purely as a reflection on that. As he worked up his pants, he had to try way too hard not to let the heat that was starting to touch his face and chest show up any more than it already was. He wasn't winning against it.

Fox:
"Perhaps another time," he taunted in such proper manners that it seemed more like an offer. He honestly wouldn't mind showing off for the detective were they alone. As he'd said: another time. The towel was taken and held it tightly around his waist as they scurried over to the relative safety of Yusuke's room, and he released a quite sigh the moment the door shut. "Thank you," he assured with a slight dip of his head before finding clothes for himself. After a bit of searching, he found a pair of pants a few sizes too big for the teen, but that fit him well enough to leave only his ankles exposed. A white, long-sleeved shirt was pulled on and his still damp hair was pulled through the neck to continue to be patted dry.

Once he deemed that crimson mane dry enough, the towel was tossed into a nearby clothes basket. "I believe I was promised breakfast, but I would rather not wake, 'The Circus,' as you call them. What I gave them last night only worked to put them to sleep, not keep them in slumber. Do you believe the alcohol in their system will leave them catatonic a little longer?" Kurama cleared his throat as an uncouth growl came from his stomach. "I'll admit, last nights activities have left me with quite the appetite."

EDDE:
"I'm gonna hold you to that," he teased right back.

Now they were dressed, and he plopped onto his bed and looked over his shoulder thoughtfully. He'd made their small walk through the hall a fast one just in case but...

"They'll prob'ly sleep till noon. Or at least that's usually the routine. It changes up a little sometimes." Smiling lightly, he turned back to his boyfriend. Looking over him in thought on the title once again pulled a warm wave through him once again.

"It should be fine for a while. So why don't I make good on that breakfast I promised?" He was already standing as he said as much. "Maaaan, you're in for a treat Shuichi. Breakfast really is my specialty." The brag was as boastful and somewhat silly as ever as he made his way to the door and opened it all over again. "C'mon."

Fox:
Kurama chuckled as he opened the bedroom door. "So long as it is better than your attempts at dinner, I will have no complaints," he assured. Walking down the hall, he found the two women with manly hands passed out on the living room floor, one laying on top of the other. Both were snoring and both reeked of alcohol. He resisted making a face at both the show of immaturity and the powerful stench. Kurama instead turned into the kitchen, and was thankful to find it empty. He didn't want to tip toe around Yusuke's mother literally as well as figuratively.

"Forgive me if the inquiry is rude, but how much do you believe your mother remembers of last night?" This time the fox couldn't stop the slight twist in his lips that quickly dissipated. "She did not seem fond of me." It was a vast understatement. "And I would like to avoid confrontation if possible."

EDDE:
The teen tapped at his chin as he opened up the fridge. He was having trouble sharing the debate of her memory and looking for ingredients at the same time. So, he answered first as he looked over the very small amount of food they had left... He really did need to go shopping. Maybe they could go together later. "Prob'ly most of it actually," he offered lightly.

As he gathered pre-sliced and mixed ingredients in covered dishes he offered a curious look to Shuichi. "You think?" He looked into the fridge once again and grabbed the rest of what he needed before moving to the stove and going through the well-remembered motions of making a beautifully fluffy omelette they could share. "I make these a lot, so when I buy the stuff I usually just set it all up then to save time later," he informed as he went.

Although he paused for a long moment as he looked over Shuichi with a soft smile that had warmth oozing from chocolate eyes. "I didn't get that vibe from her at all," he added cheerily. "I think she likes you a lot."

Then again, Yusuke knew his mother's behavior insanely well while Kurama had nothing to go by. He supposed as he thought about it, he could see how an outsider might get that as the outcome. But the smile he had to offer was neither teasing or overly comforting; simply cheery. Because he meant it honestly.

Fox:
With his hands casually resting in his pockets, the fox leaned back against the counter to avoid taking a seat at the table. His backside wouldn't appreciate the hard surface. He watched idly as Yusuke gathered ingredients and fired up the stove, and he found himself impressed that Yusuke would have the wherewithal to pre-prepare a commonly cooked meal. It was what followed next that caused his eyes to widen and eyebrows to pinch together in confusion and surprise. "You do?" The night before hadn't gone well at all once the woman returned home with her friends. A lot of yelling, crying, chiding and arguing.

"Are you sure? If I am not mistaken, she called me a hussy. That is not typically something you call someone whose presence you enjoy." A preen sharpened shoulders, but only for a moment.

EDDE:
He listened to the complaint as he stirred the meat and vegetables into the frothing egg mixture then poured it into the pan. But a moment after it was said he busted into a hearty laugh. Luckily it wasn't too loud. The sleeping occupants might not have been able to get over his normal volume. Then again, dealing with it on a normal basis might have made it easier.

"She called you a hussy cause she caught us naked in bed," he smoothed over lightly. "Don't worry. She was just bitching. Trust me. She doesn't have much of a problem with you." The addition was warm as he watched the bubbles rise in the cheesy egg mixture and poked at it a little to make its spread even.

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
"I suppose that is a good point..." He flinched when considering what his own mother might think and say if she where to catch them in a similar position. A mixture of revulsion and guilt ruffled his feathers unpleasantly, but he allowed himself to smooth out. He simply wouldn't let that happen. Shiori wouldn't react with the drunken antics, but he could picture her disapproving stare and frown. Shame prickled at the back of his neck, but that too was soothed away. There was no need to ponder over that now.

"Though, I do hope I can have a coherent conversation with her at a later time. I should get on the good side of my boyfriend's mother, don't you think?"

EDDE:
Yusuke missed the thought process as he toyed with the omelette in shaping it properly. The addition however had him tugging away from the useless prodding in thought. "Hmmm..." The thoughtful noise came with a tilt of his head and a crossing of his free arm over his chest. The one with the spatula ended up being what he brought to his face. The position didn't leave him room to tap at his chin as he normally might, but the spatula was tapped at his cheek, leaving behind bits of egg and cheese without notice.

"Yeah. It'll be fine," he finally decided. Looking at the redhead, he smiled. "She ain't drunk anymore so it'll be easier to talk to her... for the most part." He chuckled at the last part before turning back to the pan to flip the omelette.

"Most other people get along with her better'n me anyway. And it shouldn't take too long for her to figure out you ain't 'just some chick' she found me in bed with..." Although it was possible they'd have to explain that part again. He found himself wondering how much of the night she would recall. "Smaller details like that she might need help with though," he added through a chuckle.

Fox:
He watched on with a raised eyebrow, but silently watched the detective smear his cheek in cheese and egg without noticing. Surely it had been hot, how had he not noticed? Just as he opened his mouth to point out the blunder, he changed his mind. What fun would telling him be, when he could watch the boy go through possibly the whole day like that? Amusement loosened his jaw and softened his features, but they tightened again as Yusuke continued. 'Just some chick'? Smaller details? Had they not just gone over this the night before?

Hidden in pockets, Kurama's hands tightened into fists and his eyes narrowed. "Yes, I'm sure she'll need to be reminded that her son does like men after all. You certainly need to be."

EDDE:
He'd only just moved to poke at the egg a little more when a shiver rolled down his spine. It was crazy how well he could feel it before he even looked to see it. But wide blinking eyes were muddled with confusion as they turned toward the redhead.

They grew wider before an odd sort of smile that leaked its nervousness drew across his face. "What're you talking about?" He managed to slide a little more confidence in there. "I already told you," he added warmly. "I don't like guys. I like you."

He couldn't figure out what the chilly look had been offered for though, so he decided to ask what he'd done wrong. "What's up with that face, anyway?" Well, in his own way.

Fox:
Yusuke wasn't helping the situation in the least. In fact, he only seemed to be making things worse. Kurama's right eyebrow twitched, then he smoothed out his features into an eerie calm. "The two are synonymous," he stated firmly. "Meaning they are one in the same. I am no chick Yusuke. Just some, or any other."

EDDE:
Had he the room while leaned back against the stove, he might have taken a couple of retreating steps for the look he was getting. And then... it was almost creepy how it calmed down like that...

"I know that!" The bubbling response came with a frustrated pout. What the Hell made him go back to that all of a sudden? "We been over that too, ya know."

There was only a quick peek at the omelette to be sure it wasn't burning. Although he usually could catch and stop that from smell alone. "I didn't say you were," he added with that same bubbling of confusion and thoughtfulness. "It was that my mom thought you were." At least as far as he could tell. He'd been talking about her view on it after all.

Fox:
"You really should be more careful with your words, Yusuke." His voice was cool, but not cold, and his posture softened when he realized his own fallacy. He wasn't speaking to just anyone, he was speaking to someone who often had no control over the volume of his voice, let alone the words created by it. Shuichi resisted rolling his eyes, his annoyance dampened into humor. "It is not a 'small detail' to me."

EDDE:
Shuichi received a blank stare for his efforts. A distinct lack through an attempt to process before the whirring mechanics of that hamster wheel in his head finally kicked in as he latched on to that first part... what had he said wrong?

An eye closed as the other peeked at him and his hand drew up to his chin. The spatula was still held in it, but tilted sideways to share the hold on that chin. "So I said something wrong right?"

He really didn't like how upset whatever he'd said had made Kurama. "What was it?" He wanted to know precisely how whatever it was he'd said have come out. So that maybe he could avoid it in the future.

Upon asking, he flipped the omelette once more and folded it over, the inside having cooked just long enough to take any runniness out of the yolk. And he sprinkled just a little more cheese on top of it. He would let it solidify in this form. And then it would be done.

Man, did it just look perfect. And from the smell he could tell the taste would be right on. How glad could he be that his boasting hadn't only been that this time? A small smile pulled at his lips as he looked down on it, but he quickly tugged it away and landed a more serious look back on the fox in search of an answer.

Fox:
"Trying to explain verbal emphasis to you would only be confusing," he offered, taking in a slow, deep breath. Not to keep calm, but because breakfast was really starting to smell wonderful. "But, in essence. It sounded as if you were the one calling me a 'chick,' and that correcting your mother on that bit of information was only a minor detail. I believe we both know that it is not such a small thing to me." He paused to take in another breath. "That does smell lovely. If it tastes just as good, I may just forgive your vocabulary slip up."

EDDE:
He listened, peeking at him as he pulled a plate and two forks out. A soft pout touched his lips as he turned back around to face him. "I didn't mean it like that," he promised lightly. It was a bit too cute of a face for such an odd apology.

Then he added to it as he leaned forward though. If he weren't so much shorter, he might have been able to touch noses. Instead, it had him peeking up through lashes and natural bangs. "Can you just forgive me cause I'm the awesomest boyfriend ever instead?"

An adorably cheesy, and perfectly cheeky smile drew over his face as he asked as much. "Cause then I want a different treat for making the awesomest omelette ever for you."

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
Again his eyebrow raised, this time as Yusuke stalked up to him. He glanced down at the detective, and this time couldn't stop the half roll of his eyes. "No," he answered simply. "But I will forgive you, if only because it is difficult to hold a grudge against such an adorable face," he taunted kindly. "That and staying angry with the ignorant will only lead to aggravation." Shuichi smiled, but didn't lean down to offer the closeness Yusuke seemed to be looking for.

"I will withhold judgment on that 'awesome omelette' until I have tasted it for myself."

EDDE:
That adorable look turned sour quickly as he squinted up at the redhead. He wasn't adorable, dammit. And the other part didn't sound so great either.

Standing back up he bushed it off rather well though. "Know what? I'm gonna let you slide," he offered cheekily, teasingly. "Cause even though you said that on purpose, now we're almost even."

"Also, that's good," he added cheerily. "Cause it's done now." He poked out his tongue toward the redhead before plopping the omelette on the shared plate and poking the two forks in it.

Turning, a much bigger smile cracked across his face. "Tadah~" He cheered lightly before tugging it away and stepping backward toward the dining room and table while holding it out as incentive for the redhead to follow.

Fox:
And follow he did. The smell was beckoning, but the smile was enchanting, and the fox couldn't stop himself if he wanted to. It was fascinating, really. All he was doing was making that goofy expression of his, and the fox found himself entranced. At least he was able to maintain his air of calm. "Almost even?" That sounded inviting.

Kurama pulled out a chair at the table, and preened sharply when he took a seat. It lasted only a second, but the dull ache in his backside spiked into pain the moment he put all of his weight down. He cleared his throat and forced his shoulders to relax, then willed it back down into a pleasurable stretched feeling. "Yes, almost even," he stated pleasantly.

EDDE:
There were a couple reasons for it, but he didn't mention them. "Mmhm. Almost," he agreed with a nod as he was asked. But seeing his reaction to sitting had the detective doing so carefully himself. He was a little surprised when nothing bad happened, but not entirely. He'd noticed previously that there was a lack of consequence since waking that there had been the night before. He must have recovered in his sleep.

Fitting that smile back on his face he cut off a piece of their breakfast and held the fork up for the redhead. The other had been shoved in his mouth with a large bite on it rather promptly while he was filling the other one. "Mmmm-mm," he hummed out teasingly with his full mouth closed tight around it to entice him further.

Fox:
Slim fingers took the offered fork so he could feed himself the morsel. After last night's burnt pasta and cupped soup, the fox was a bit skeptical; but as he took the bite he perked up. "This is delectable, Yusuke," he commented after swallowing, already cutting off another bite with his fork. "I'm impressed."

EDDE:
He put a little pout on his lips in feigned offense. "You sound surprised," he teased. The fiasco the night before would have anyone skeptical. So he couldn't help but chuckle a moment later.

"I liked cooking for you last night even though I royally fucked it up," he added normally as he cut a second somewhat large bite for himself. He was being careful to split it fairly, though.

"I just might wanna do it again sometime." That being said, he promptly shoved the bite in his mouth and savored it happily. Although, this was something he made pretty often, so he was more than used to the taste. If he did cook for him again, he'd want to try something new. He could do better next time too. After all, Kurama had offered to help him along.

As he swallowed he looked the other teen over again. Thinking about dinner had him thinking about the rest of the night. And it drew a warm tingle down his spine that sat in his belly. If he hadn't known better he might have thought it was the food. "Too bad you're still so bad off," he mentioned as he leaned a little closer. That smirk piled on his lips as a bit of heat drew into chocolate eyes. "Cause I really liked that other part too. And I'd be glad to do that again any time."

It almost wasn't fair really. He'd gotten more than a little excited a few times this morning. But his boyfriend didn't seem to be having that problem from what he could tell.

Fox:
"I wouldn't be opposed to the idea," he replied with a chuckle before silencing it with a forkful of omelet. If more of Yusuke's meals were like this, then it would certainly be a treat. And, spending time with the detective wasn't exactly a chore.

A playful purr met Yusuke's smirk. "Yes, the rest of the night was particularly spectacular. It really is unfortunate that I am 'so bad off,'" he repeated nonchalantly. Another bite paused him. "We will simply have to change our positions. Don't you agree?"

EDDE:
A smile and a chuckle were offered toward the nonchalant response. As he cut another piece and opened his mouth wide for the bite however, he paused as a small shock rolled through him. There was nothing bad about the feeling though. His mouth pinched closed as he looked over at the redhead quietly. Why the Hell had that surprised him so much? Why was it burning his face so horribly right now? And more importantly, why hadn't he thought of that himself? Under a deep flush, chocolate eyes spun off in the opposite direction.

Lips still pinched a bit he offered words that were far too lightly placed for his own liking as he fought against a bodily attempt to melt into a meekness he still didn't quite get. "Sure. We could do that."

He was quick to stuff the bite in his mouth, not understanding but also not fighting the need to look away at the moment. It wasn't just embarrassment. He knew that much. And a soft huff that nearly formed into a groan escaped his nose as he recognized that it had quite a bit to do with how well that had gone the night before. He'd really liked it even if it was a little awkward not being the one offering all that attention. He had the wherewithal to realize it was more a reaction to thinking on the blissful situation than rationalizing it that spiked a small excitement through him.

Yeah. He'd really liked it.

Fox:
His hum was more than just a little amused. Watching that color shoot to Yusuke's face brought a smile to his own, but he hid it by continuing with his meal. In fact, he let the detective stew in his own thoughts for as long as it took them to finish their breakfast. Only once the plate was cleared did he place down the fork. He searched momentarily for a napkin, but when he found none, he simply wiped his lower lip clean with his thumb. "We may proceed back to the bedroom, if you'd like," the tease was purred. "You seem quite amorous this morning, and I feel a bit guilty." Shuichi pushed out the chair and stood with much more grace than he had getting out of bed.

"Forgive me," he started, the playful humor still clear in his tone. "It seems I failed to exhaust you last night. I will not fall so short now." And yet, the fox was gathering their dish and silverware to wash them in the sink. It would be rude to leave them out, after all; and Yusuke had been the one to cook. "Though, I may be in need of some assistance. My balance is a tad off."

EDDE:
Heat continued to flare on his face as Kurama remained silent and they went back to eating. Even when it dwindled it came back quickly enough. Excitement and embarrassment seemed to be playing through him rather blatantly. It even had him eating less exuberantly through his thoughts that were obviously rolling around in his mind which, amazingly, managed to correct his manners in the same turn.

His bites became more normal portions. And though he was quick to shove them into his mouth each time he was finished with on to keep those thoughts to himself, he seemed surprised when he reached out for another bite to find they'd eaten it all.

Just the start of the redhead's voice was enough to bring that heat back once again even before he heard what he had to say. Yusuke peeked at him as he watched him gather the dish. But the cute look he had to offer turned somewhat blank and curious as the fox went on. "How could I help?"

The air headed questioned was followed by a blink that had him standing as well. "Those can just go in the sink," he added quickly. After all, he had some serious scrubbing to do in there later.

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
He couldn't get over just how pleasing Yusuke was to look at when flustered. Especially when he knew where such embarrassment came from. The fox released a hum and carefully placed the dishware in the sink to avoid any loud clanking. He didn't want to wake the drunken circus. "Simple, really," he purred, turning until his back was pressed against the counter and he could pull Yusuke in by his waist band. Kurama touched their lips together briefly, then a smile curled his pair.

"You will just need to sit on it." The less than proper phrase was spoken so casually. If there were a more polite way to say it, he doubted it would garner nearly the same reaction. "Don't worry," he concluded with a purr. "I'll guide you."

EDDE:
If it was simple, he shouldn't be having to wrack his mind to figure it out. The huffy thought on that brought just a bit of a pout to his lips that was soothed away quickly by soft lips. The closeness didn't hurt either. He'd even started what was sure to be a pleasing smile toward it before a harsh jump of his insides in all the right ways gave cause for a small preen. And heat erupted through him again. Although admittedly it didn't just hit his face this time. The casual answer to his question travelled straight through him. And it caused more than a bit of a sputter.

Although he settled a little faster this time despite an oddly placed need to peek up at him from under his lashes instead of looking at him directly. Man, he really liked when he said something like that so casually. It fed his previous need and attempts to get him to do so on his own command. "I guess that is a pretty simple answer," he concluded through a small huff.

His own hands had found a place at the foxy human's waist the moment he'd been brought closer. "I can do that," he added a bit more defiantly through the shrouding red of his face.

Fox:
Mischief gleamed in emerald eyes as he looked over the bright red face. "Good," he replied before nuzzling their lips back together. Shuichi happily suckled on Yusuke's lower lips, and the fox's hold grew strong enough to hold the detective flush against him. It was just as easy to devour Yusuke as it was to be devoured by him. He couldn't help but melt a little before he pulled from their kiss with a soft suction. "If we are done here, then please. Lead the way." His hold on the other teen grew lighter, allowing him the chance to escape.

EDDE:
Be fell into his boyfriend's lips just easily, a happy hum dwelling between them as his arms slid around his waist when he as pulled tighter. It pulled the heat away from his face for the most part; not that he understood why the Hell it was there, all of a sudden, in the first place after everything else. So he was just fine with that.

He remained lost for another moment or two after they parted, then Kurama pushed for a change in scenery. The lost bubble popped, and he smiled cheerily. Arms slid from around that waist and one travelled down his arm to tug him off by the hand. "Kay." The simple response was just as cheery.

As they moved down the hall however, there came a light rapping on his front door. The girl outside could be heard calling his name clearly. And an utterly disturbed preen shot through him that stopped him in his tracks before reaching the entry way. "Shit, it's Keiko!" The panicked note came out barely above a whisper.

He hadn't needed to say as much considering that was obvious, but his upset came from their discussion the night before. After all, he'd promised her he'd ask Kurama for help with his school work. He was quick to peek around the corner with a stubborn pout on his lips. "If we ignore her she might go away," he added. As if.

But apparently being able to hear the girl clearly went both ways for the most part. Or, at least the girl knew him a little too well. "I hear you in there," she huffed. "You better not be trying to ignore me again! I do still have a key, you know."

His pout got heavier. There was probably no ignoring her. Not after that was mentioned.

Fox:
It was both uncomfortable and comforting, knowing that Keiko had been able to reach the door without him noticing. Usually he was so well aware of his surroundings that he would have caught her scent before she reached the top of the stairs; and he certainly would have heard her footsteps long before she'd reached the door. Yusuke could pull him so far out of his own mind that a (not so) simple schoolgirl was able to avoid his detection. It was disconcerting... Yet it felt good to lose his thoughts, even for a moment.

That didn't sooth his desires, however. He willed her to walk away, for the detective's statement to be true; but it was all for naught. "I don't believe I have a place in this conversation," the fox stated easily. Besides, he really didn't want Keiko to see the erection he was sporting. That was a sight saved for Yusuke. He heard the click of a key entering the lock, and Kurama was quick to escape down the hallway. "I will be waiting for you," he assured.

Shuichi was happy to settle himself on the detective's bed to await him. He pulled off his shirt and folded it before placing it off to the side. He decided to keep his pants on for a number of reasons. He tried to give the two of them some privacy in their conversation, but the fox was nosy. Especially since he couldn't stop a burning in his stomach that he recognized as jealous possession. The two of them had something special, that was obvious to anyone with half a mind.

EDDE:
The pout turned on Kurama as he decided to abandon him. Although instead of angry it turned a little pathetic toward him. A 'don't leave me' vibe radiated off of him as the fox left him alone to suffer the girl's wrath that the redhead couldn't possibly know she'd have for last night. After all, he hadn't said a word about that promise.

Well okay. So now he was on his own. He got it. If he'd had the mind to think about it, the small problem he'd had in his pants was covered by that large shirt of his. He'd have been glad for it... except the intrusion cut that need off significantly. There was practically nothing left of it to be worried about in the first place.

They key turned and he sighed sharply. "Yea, yea," he complained in his best attempt to hold back his annoyance. "Calm your tits already." He opened the door only to land his eyes on a sharp bubbly pout that the girl could pull off even better than him sometimes. There was a short scramble to back away from it lest it come with one of her horribly painful slaps.

But she calmed down as she saw him panic and heard that adorable 'djee' type noise he tended to let off when startled well enough. In fact, it brought a bit of a smile to her lips that she was attempting to hide away for words that were supposed to come out much shorter, but hung on a soft giggle instead. "You remember Yusuke," she offered in a gentler scolding than she meant to. "You promised you wouldn't say that to me anymore after what happened to you for it the last time." She was reminding him, yes. But she could tell he did from that reaction.

He stared at her quietly for a long moment, tense and through a heavy shroud of a pout. Her head tilted and she watched it for a long moment. But it didn't take long for her amusement with him to tick into annoyance as he just kept staring at her. "What's that face for?!"

The bubbled response was quiet. "You're smiling like that..."

The 'huh?' she let off was overtly confused.

He bubbled further and pointed an accusing finger at her. "When you smile like that you get violent all of a sudden!"

Her face grew to match his "It's not all of a sudden!" Her defense had her stepping closer, and him taking a step back. "Ooh! Yusuke! It's not 'all of a sudden when I smile like that'. It's that when I smile like that you do something astoundingly idiotic to deserve it!" Her arms crossed over her chest rather quickly, as if to avoid such a thing.

His features relaxed and shifted to curious. "Oh. Really?" His pointer finger touched pinched lips as his eyes turned up thoughtfully. Huh. I guess so...

"Well, you don't gotta worry about that now." The offer was light as he smiled at her warmly.

"I don't?" She didn't recognize at all what he was saying. But he was too air headed to notice that she didn't know that he didn't mean 'now' as in at this moment, but 'now' as in 'now that I'm with him'. She grew suspicious over what was different in this situation, but held it back. She could be glad he wouldn't be handsy for once anyway.

"Mmhm." He nodded out his assurance and landed her with a curious look just after. "So, what's up? It's not a school day. So why're' here so early all of a sudden?" It wasn't like her to just randomly show up at someone's house, after all. Unlike him, Keiko did have manners.

Fox:
Kurama rested back on the bed, his arms lifting to cradle his head as he stared up at the ceiling. His eyes shut and he listened in order to picture the scene he was missing. He had half a mind to poke his head out of the doorway just to catch a glimpse; but he was not a jealous schoolboy needing to be assured. A tick did come to his features when Keiko mentioned 'the last time,' and elaborated on her smile. He could see his boyfriend grasping at her perversely... the way Yusuke grabbed at him now. Obviously he and Keiko had very different responses to his advances.

'You don't have to worry about that now.'

He wondered just what that meant. She didn't have to worry because Yusuke had an eager and willing fox in his bed, or because he had an eager and willing boyfriend to be loyal to? "Hm," the hum came with a smile. He'd never had such loyalties before. Sticking to one partner never lasted long for Youko Kurama... But for Shuichi Minamino. Yes, monogamy sounded good when it came to Yusuke.

EDDE:
"Oh, right!" A bit of a blush hit her cheeks for the simple fact that she'd been entirely distracted from her worry. A frown touched her lips that drew her eyebrows together. "Is Puu here, by chance? He was acting so strangely last night. Then when I woke up, he wasn't in my arms anymore."

"He was acting strange?" Yusuke tilted his head. "Whatdaya mean?"

"Oh... well." She thought about this. "At first he was fine, and he got pretty cuddly too." A little smile touched her face as she read into his actions. "But.. later in the night he started looking a little ill. And he was very upset." She offered a short, worried glance over the spirit detective before continuing. "I fell asleep with him in my arms late last night. He seemed to be doing a little better, but I got worried when I woke up and he was gone."

"Really? Sounds weird. I wonder what was wrong with him." She couldn't help but offer another look, this time skeptical. But she couldn't deny his abundant air headedness. "Anyway, he's fine. He showed up sometime this morning while I was taking a walk." The giddy little chuckle as he thought about his 'walk' didn't make a lick of sense to her.

So instead, she decided to focus on his reflection and ask on his night. She was still a little worried even though Yusuke said he was fine. Though that could have to do with that air headedness of his. "So how did last night go, Yusuke? Was it fun to have Kurama over?" The cheery smile of hers and sudden change of subject, at least in his eyes, pulled a confused look over his face before he brushed past it.

"Yeah. Dinner was kinda awkward at first. But it wasn't anywhere near as bad as at his house with his mom askin' all that stuff." A little smile touched his lips as he scratched at his cheek. "It went good though," he decided lightly.

"I'm glad," she answered cheerily. "It's been nice seeing you with so many good friends now." At the odd look on his face, she laughed it off softly and moved on to distract him. "What all did you do?"

He tapped at his chin for a moment. But it wasn't hard at all to remember the sequence of events the night before. "Well, first we had a date," he offered cheekily. The awkwardness of dinner aside it was a great one. "Then later, we played freeze tag in the park with Kuwabara and Hiei. It was pretty neat." His chuckle was just as cheeky, bubbling excitement over the events of the night being misplaced in Keiko's eyes.

She huffed a sigh. "Come off it, Yusuke," she puffed out with a shake of her head. "Can't you ever take anything seriously?"

"Huh? He's still here, you know. You could even ask him." He was about to ask what she meant by him not taking things seriously when she cut him off quickly.

"By the way," the suddenly short look she gave him that always came before nagging put an uncomfortable look on his face. He knew what was coming. "Did you ask him about help with your homework?" She was quiet through his awkward chuckle in response before she leaned further into the house and turned her face in the direction he'd thumbed toward his room when telling her he was still there. "Well I'm going now Yusuke," she spouted off cheekily, and a bit more loudly than they'd been so far as Yusuke flailed and all but begged through silent shuffling for her not to do what he knew she was about to. "Dont forget you promised to ask Kurama to help with all that schoolwork I brought you yesterday~"

He pouted sharply at her, this look more pathetic than the one he'd had when she first got there. "You're cruel," he pouted lightly at her.

"And you're lazy." The puffed back response came with a 'hmph' and a quick turn of her shoulder. Not a moment later the door was closed behind her, and she was stamping her way down the stairs with a grumble of "Honestly!"

Yusuke stared at the door for a long moment. That angrier bubble had engulfed him again. His own huff of "geez," followed her off. After a few moments a hefty sigh puffed past his chest and he turned to look at his bedroom door instead, wondering if she'd ruined his chances off 'getting exhausted' with that or not. Kurama seemed to be pretty strict with himself about schoolwork, after all. A soft whine hit him as he moved toward the room.

Fox:
It felt really... Well, it felt really good to hear Yusuke refer to their night as a date. He wasn't even trying to hide their relationship from the girl everyone thought was the detective's significant other. He didn't notice his smile getting wider until it was almost silly, then he dialed it back a bit. She didn't believe him of course, who would? Freeze tag in the park with the whole of team Urameshi minus one was a pretty farfetched idea; and yet, truth was stranger than fiction.

The mention of schoolwork caught his interest, and he glanced at the door. Kurama made the note to help his boyfriend later in the day, but they were both in want of something more entertaining.

Footsteps rung in his ears, and Shuichi sat up slowly until he was leaning back on his right arm, while his left draped over a bent knee. "We can talk about your schoolwork later," the fox teased once the door opened. "But for now; come, join me. I will care for you properly." The words were stated casually, but with a delighted gleam in emerald eyes. "Unless the mood has been broken."

EDDE:
The pout disappeared the moment he got an eye full of the shirtless fox. A small shiver ran through his veins, but it didn't reach him physically. Well, aside from the silly smile that crossed his face. It turned in to a brief pout again when his schoolwork was brought up, but it only lasted for a second.

That silly look returned as he sauntered over to the bed and plopped down on curled legs facing him. "It was, but not anymore," he offered smoothly, cheerily. Although he did let him in on a brief moment of that pout once again as he included him in on the conversation he wasn't a part of at the front doo. "But you know, all she had to do was ask. Hiei was totally there. I bet she would have believed you."

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
Yusuke plopped down and the fox wrapped his right arm around Yusuke's waist. "Good," he purred, leaning in to place a kiss over the teen's Adam's apple, and then another over his pulse. He paused, and the fox let out a low chuckle. "Is that what is on your mind right now? I could chase her down if you'd prefer." The gentle lips became nibbling teeth as Shuichi set to work on making small marks in his territory. "But I have such wonderful ideas for us that can only be accomplished here." Well, that was only partially true, but he wasn't about to make another attempt at outside fornication. Not just yet, anyway.

Shuichi's left hand slid up and under his boyfriend's shirt slowly, his warm palm caressing strong muscles on its trek to push up the shirt enough to expose his chest. "My plan begins by replacing that giddy smile of yours with a happy expression of a different sort." Guiding the detective back a little bit, Kurama was able to bend down enough to place a few kisses over the sternum. "And bring about that excitement we lost in that brief interruption." Sharp teeth caught a nipple and worried it between them gently, then he laved his tongue over the nub to sooth away any pain. "But the decision is yours."

EDDE:
A few rapid blinks signified how easily he'd been brought back in a matter of moments. He'd nearly gotten over it from the attention to his throat even by the time Kurama chuckled at him a second later. A short huff left his chest and his hands searched for places to rest.

They found them as his shirt was pushed up and even more attention was pooled on him. His dominant landed much more carefully in red tresses than they had previously for such activity. The other resting its forearm against his shoulder allowed his fingers to trail a somewhat shaky design over the blades. Some of that heat came back through a sharp huff that was followed by a heavy hum as shock from bit nipple soared through him and landed decidedly in his groin.

He felt like he was more excitable at the moment. And he wasn't sure if it was the continuance of that soothing voice saying such things, or if he was simply that much looking forward to their coupling and the role he'd been happily assigned. It could have been both, but he couldn't debate long enough to decide. He was lost for a moment in a deep shutter and allowed the soft groan that wanted to escape out. "Here is good," was all he had to offer in huffy words that turned a bit low through his growing excitement. Yeah. The mood was definitely not ruined anymore if it had been.

Fox:
"I'm glad," he hummed against Yusuke's chest. "Because letting go of you would have been terribly difficult." He enjoyed the hand in his hair, and pictured the absent designs drawn across his shoulder. The fox shifted to sit up fully so he could use both hands to push the shirt up and off of his boyfriend to toss it to the floor. He pulled back for a moment, just to take in the sight of Yusuke flushed and half naked. He was simply delectable, and Kurama wanted nothing more than to devour him whole. Every single powerful inch was his, and hopefully his alone. "Mine," he growled softly before pressing their lips together in a hungry, but subtle kiss. His tongue stayed dormant, but he put enough pressure between them that he nearly forced Yusuke all the way back onto the bed.

Shuichi grasped a muscular cheek with his left hand, while his right took to petting down over the teen's abs and down further. He teased over that growing happy trail before cupping over his arousal through his pants to give it a nice squeeze.

EDDE:
Yusuke helped by lifting his arms as needed, and pulled back from reaching out again as he noticed Kurama move away a little in stopping to look him over. A smirk crawled across his lips, seeming to have finally been able to catch up to him.

Only just as he was about to make his own comment the redhead made his. It widened chocolate eyes. But he wasn't given the chance to react fully to what seemed like more unneeded embarrassment as his lips were suddenly accosted. A surprised noise that might have resembled a sudden yelp if it weren't muffled away passed through his nose even as his arms were quick to wrap around the redhead as he went down.

He broke away to heave a heavy breath at the sudden change that wasn'quite as sudden as it felt. A heavy groan rolled from his chest and he arched a bit under those touches. When pleased eyes opened and turned back on him they were softer, a slight shadow of the meekness he'd shown off to him previously. Although he was smiling more exuberantly than he had then. The two words he had to offer back for the one tossed at him were difinitive though. "W'll yeah."

Fox:
Yusuke's groans were music to his sensitive ears, and the fox worked to get more of them. "Just a reminder," he murmured against the teen's skin as he continued his kisses and licks down the detective's throat and over his collar bone. He'd already decided not to let Keiko have him, and not to let Yusuke have her. The only one he'd be able to grab at, to flirt with, to tease with dirty expression was him.

The cupping hand left for a moment, just long enough to gather their seed and set it on the bed to grow and bloom. "Now try to relax," the fox purred, both hands leaving the teen's body in order to slick themselves in the cool nectar. Once more his left found Yusuke's backside while his right cupped over his length. Though, this time they slid passed the barrier of clothing to reach heated skin. Long fingers touched and pet over the tight entrance, while his slick palm grasped firmly around the heavy shaft to offer it firm strokes.

EDDE:
"Reminder for who, hm?" The tease was warm and didn't linger on his features through that silly look of his. Arms used to hold himself up slid from the heavy grip to land and squeeze through a sharp tug of his own and a heavy groan that softened his features all over again.

A soft bate hit his breath as he managed to lower that grip down his arms and use his own elbows to support himself. Shivering fingers gripped him there. These movements were his attempts at doing as told despite how much tensity wanted to kink in his back; despite the soft arching he was doing for a particularly well placed touched. "Who's tense?" The tease came with a warm chuckle that petered off into another happy little noise.

His chin lifted, tilting to the side and exposing itself almost all on its own as a craving for those teeth and lips to return to their earlier attention burned through him. Only his eyes widened heavily, and his grip switched back to an obstacle producing, tight hug.

Heat flared sharply across his face and a bit of a whine puffed past his chest for the inability to move more protectively. "D-don't!"

He was too late. But the horribly cold chill of seeing the most evil look he'd ever seen on his mother's face through the sliding glass door hit him much harder than the icey blast of the watering hose she held in hand. In the same movement she'd tossed the slider open as she glowered at him from the balcony, she'd turned it on to hit them so quickly after he'd made his comment and flinched that there was no avoiding it. The chill of knowing it was coming a moment before hand didn't help either. Still, despite the much colder feeling of having her see, he did give a sharp yelp as they, and his bed, were soaked... for him, this was an 'again' situation.

Atsuko smiled far too cheerily and looked over the two boys. "Morning boys! Looked like you two could use a little help washing your faces for the day."

"They're already washed!" The retort came out in a sort of squeal for the intense embarrassment and anger that hit him together. "We already had a sh--" Whatever he'd tried to say after that was muffled through a well-aimed shot of water straight into that big mouth of his.

Having effectively shut him up she added, with a quite dark look all over again, "Yeah well, they looked pretty damn dirty to me." Smiling once again as she stopped drowning her son, she tossed the hose over her shoulder. And offered a happy look that came as Yusuke choked and gagged his way into breathing again.

Walking her way through the room, she was sure to open the door to the hallway fully and make her way out that way instead of the way she'd come in; to avoid any more hanky panky going on of course. "Come on boys. Hurry and get dressed for the day. No sleeping in too late~" she nearly sang as she walked down the hall back out into the other room. Her voice returned to normal as she went. "Let's all have coffee. I wonder what we should have for breakfast..."

Despite her departure a frustrated growl bubbled quietly from his lips in the form of "Mother."

Fox:
Shuichi's hands were quick to jump away at Yusuke's exclamation. His slick fingers pulled free of his pants, and the fox looked up at him with both worry and confusion. Only to have both corrected by a harsh spray of cold water. He preened, his eyes opening wide before clamping shut to protect them from the sudden assault that came from the sliding glass door. How had she gotten out there? Yusuke's window wasn't accessible through the hallway. Had she somehow scaled the wall?

Again he found himself confused for how he felt, knowing Yusuke could distract him from the simplest of things. She was sure to have made noise while climbing the walls like a spider, but his keen ears had been focused solely on his boyfriend. He didn't have long to think on it, however. The surprise and chill of the assault put one hell of a damper on his arousal, not to mention the mood. Kurama huffed air through his nose to clear it and ran a now clean hand through his wet locks to push them out of his face. He opened his mouth to speak, only to fumble on laughter as Yusuke was sprayed like a carnival game, he could picture a balloon blowing up and popping as the detective garbled.

Even as Atsuko left, Kurama's laughter continued. He couldn't help but find their water logged situation funny, especially with Yusuke's whine. Even if their fun had been ruined, it seemed a new one was brought to the table. "Your mother is certainly interesting," he stated with a huff, blowing away some of the water clinging to his lips. "How on Earth did she manage to get onto the balcony? And where did she find a garden hose long enough to reach up here?"

EDDE:
"I figured out the first one." His huff at Kurama's laughter at him had been landed on the fox. Although it tilted away to look outside. "But I've never been able to figure that damn hose. Trust me. If I did, it'd be gone by now."

He sat up, shaking his head heavily to rid his hair from some of that wetness. And then he stood up. Moving toward the dresser, he opened the drawers once again.

"Take a look," he offered. "The balconies are pretty far apart, and I couldn't figure it out at first. But see how close the one above us is? She's pretty tall. So I figure she could reach it and use it to swing over from her room's balcony." Through a definitive nod he allowed him in on his conclusion.

"The answer is simple. She's a ninja from outer space," it was said almost too seriously. "That also explains why I'm all kinds of fucked up too." He nodded again.

Fox:
Kurama blocked off his face with a forearm as Yusuke shook himself dry in the manner of a dog, then he followed the detective off of the bed. He dried himself off with their previously used towels, and shut the door almost all the way to give them some semblance of privacy. He didn't want to get hosed again, but he didn't want to be peeked on either, and he could still scent the two 'women' in the house who had been so eager to grab at him the night before.

The fox stripped and found himself a new set of pants, though it was more difficult to find a pair that fit him comfortably. Their height difference saw to that, but he managed well enough. The shirt he'd rid himself of earlier was pulled back on before the fox moved to meet Yusuke at the window. "Really, Yusuke?" he questioned in a deadpan tone. "I am certain she is not from outer space, just very athletic. It seems to run in the family," he mentioned while looking over the balcony.

"Do you need to be hosed down often? It sounds like you've experienced this before."

EDDE:
An odd, almost pissy little look that really almost spoke for itself on the guilt factor was landed on the redhead. "She uses it for other stuff..." As did his decision to focus on the first part as his face calmed and he went back to searching out his own clothes. "If she's not," he fired back just as seriously as he'd made his claim. "Then how do you explain that radar? She always knows if I'm doing something when she's around." Well, if she was awake and sober anyway... although the second part of that could be debated on too.

Peeling away soaked pants and boxers he chosen to slip on another pair of slack sweatpants material alone after drying himself down a little in an attempt to tug away that chill. "I mean it, you know," he added as he looked at him while seeking out a shirt once he'd gotten his off.

"I swear. It's every time." Although he didn't elaborate on that 'something' he'd been talking about.

Fox:
"I would assume it's because you are nearly always up to something?" He offered in a voice so kind it was cruel. However, he couldn't stop himself from thinking over what Atsuko would want to spray him down for... Smoking cigarettes was one, perhaps he was one to drink as well. A slight frown tugged his lips as he thought on Yusuke being found in bed with another person. It was doubtful. In fact he was sure he was the only one to touch Yusuke in such ways, but that didn't stop a wave of possessiveness to roll through him. "Every time? Be careful Yusuke. You may make me jealous," he teased lightly, watching as his boyfriend disrobed.

EDDE:
Confusion pinched his lips together curiously as he looked at him as his arms pushed through the sleeves of the slightly heavier long sleeved shirt. "Jealous of what?" The question was simply innocent and asked a bit oddly just before he pulled the thing over his head and shoved it down. He didn't doubt he'd want something cooler later, but he was far too 'cool' as it sat at the moment.

"And it's not that," he added. "I mean it. It's like she just knows." Although a sultry look fell over his features as he stepped closer and a hand was placed simply on the redhead's chest. "If you don believe me we could test it though." The tease was as devious as ever.

"You two are taking an awfully long time in there~" The singsongy voice of his mother cooed at them. "I better not have to get the hose again~"

Yusuke nearly jumped out of his skin before a cacophony of complaintive noises bubbled from gaping lips as he pointed accusingly at the door.

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
"Oh?" Shuichi rested his hands on Yusuke's hips as the teen drew closer. He was happy to know that he sensed Atsuko coming before her voice gave her away. "We will not be long Ma'am," he assured her carefully.

A devious expression was hidden expertly with an innocent one as he watched Yusuke point at the door accusingly. "Oh, is that what you meant? Did you not know?" The fox lifted his hand to touch the tips of his fingers to the detective's spine and drag them right up to the point where vertebra met skull and tapped their twice. "When a child is born the mother implants a microchip right here. It lets them know what their child is thinking. Sometimes before they do." Kurama pulled back and shrugged his shoulders. "As a delinquent, I was sure you would have disabled it by now."

EDDE:
"Be a good boy and start the pot for us when you come out, hm? We don't have much right now but I found something for breakfast. Will you two be eating?" It was possible she'd noticed their dish. Interestingly, it seemed like nearly everything that came out of her mouth that wasn't pissy was playful. It was quite the resemblance.

The heavy shiver trailing fingers drew up his back was the least of what he played attention to. A short gasp rung through him before he looked at Kurama far too seriously all over again. "I knew it! She totally does have one!" It was said in an over exuberant whisper. And it was completely unclear whether he was riding with the joke or perfectly serious, really.

He leaned closer to Kurama secretively. "Do you know how to get rid of it?"

Fox:
"Of course," he answered easily, already stepping around his boyfriend to leave the room. "Mine has been deactivated for some time now. How else was I able to leave for a demonic tournament in the middle of the school year?" After picking up his flower from the bed spread and tucking the seed back into his hair, the fox moved to open the door the rest of the way. "Come now, be a 'good boy' and make your mother coffee," he teased.

EDDE:
"Hmph." He pouted heavily. "You could tell me, you know."

The pout changed into that teasing grin of his own. "What're you talkin' about? She was obviously talking to you," he teased back. He had been the one to respond to her last. It wasn't out of the question. "Besides. I'm sure you're way better at bein' a good boy than I am, Mama's boy." That part was said more warmly. He, in fact, had no problem with the view Shuichi had of his own mother. She seemed pretty great.

Fox:
"That hurt," he started with a tone of mock offense. "But perhaps that is why I am not hosed down on a regular basis." The fox let his hands rest inside his pockets as he made his way down the hallway and towards the kitchen. He paused when he saw the woman lounging in the living room, and offered her a warm, charming smile. "Good morning, Ma'am. I will start the coffee pot," he assured her with the slightest hint of a bow. Yes, he was a Mama's boy, and it even translated here with Yusuke's mother; but he found no fault in it. He'd spent the night and shared in their food, the least he could do was make her coffee and aid in making her breakfast.

When he dipped into the kitchen he found a box of instant oatmeal on the counter. He gave it a glance, but set his attention on making coffee first. He cleared the cup and filled a new filter with the dark grounds, then filled the back with water before pressing the button on the machine.

EDDE:
Yusuke chuckled and followed him out. Although he stopped at the entryway to the living room. They were watching some kind of daytime chick show... although if he tried, he could probably follow it cause he found himself watching them when skipping school since they were basically the only thing on sometimes.

The woman blinked at Kurama then nodded quietly as he started off. "Dont call me ma'am~" she hummed out almost disinterestedly but also almost sweetly. "It makes me feel old. I'm not that much older than you two. Atsuko is fine." She didn't seem to want a Miss Urameshi or however the honorific might go either.

A devious look crossed the detective's face. From the kitchen, one could see over the sink into the living room clearly over the bar style breakfast nook behind it. That devious look turned into an even more devious chuckle as he snuck up behind her while she was distracted. Crouching closer, he poked between her neck and the back of her head.

This went on for long enough that the detective should realize she'd noticed but he kept at it. And gave a light yelp as she turned on him with a rising fist. "WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING?!"

Or maybe he had noticed. Through a gleeful cackle he ran from the room around the corner and in to 'safety' hollering, "Help, help! I broke her!"

She stared at him oddly through the nook then turned back around with a huffed sigh. "What unfortunate mother has such a strange son?" He poked his tongue out at her and made faces behind her back.

But then he turned with a more definitive look to Kurama. The 'ladies' were giggling lightly and making little jabs at her. So that clenched it. Still, he leaned forward as if to share a secret. And he did whisper. "Looks like you're safe after all," he told him cheerily. "They're too tired to be so rowdy right now." With that and a happy hum, he made his way over to the counter and poured out some oatmeal into a couple bowls, placing the pot on the stove to warm up and use to cook them.

After a moment of waiting, he turned a bit of a pout on the coffee pot. He'd gotten it for her for Christmas one year, so she didn't have to have cheap mix-in crap all the time. But she was either too lazy or just so inept at cooking that she'd stopped trying to use it. He had as well, for the most part. There were times when he felt the need to make her good coffee still sometimes though.

Fox:
"Atsuko. I will do well to remember it." Though, the comment on her age did bring about a curiosity. Despite having a fifteen-year-old son, the woman didn't look much older than her mid-twenties. Was she that young, or had she found a fantastic beauty treatment? He idly watched Yusuke poke at the back of her neck, clearly amused and yet lost in thought. She must have been a very young mother, and he remembered some of her drunken blurbs about Yusuke ending up like her. Well, at least there was no fear of an unwanted pregnancy.

"That is because you were poking at the wrong spot. You were a few inches to low," he decided to answer in a casual tone.

Shuichi seemed relieved at the information, and it visibly sagged his shoulders. "I'm glad for that. I wouldn't want to make a bad impression by breaking the fingers of your mother's friends." It was difficult to tell how far he was exaggerating. If at all.

While watching Yusuke cook a thought came to him. "After meeting with Atsuko, I would like to take a look at that schoolwork Keiko mentioned. Surely you can't be too far behind." The tournament had only lasted a week. "I wouldn't mind helping you through it."

EDDE:
He burst into laughter upon giving him an odd look as Kurama said that last part. Not only that. Atsuko had just started making her way over to check on the coffee that she was close enough to hear the comment. She broke into laughter in the same way.

Although hers seemed to calm Yusuke's down. "Have you met my son?" She asked with amusement clear in her voice.

"Hey!" He bubbled up at her and she calmed as well, landing a raised eyebrow on him as she sat on one of the stools and leaned on the bar over crossed elbows. "What are you 'hey'ing? You can't argue," she pointed out.

And he turned right back to pouting sharply. Only this time with a bit of a flush. He couldn't after all.

"If your so embarrassed about it why not do something about it," she sighed out in scolding as she ran her hand through her hair. Although she paused and sat a little forward again to smile cheerily at Kurama. "I bet you don't give your own mother much trouble. You seem like a good kid to me." She tapped at lips that pinched thoughtfully together before landing him with a sharper look. "For the most part." The look she'd landed on them in the bedroom was there and gone again in a flash. "Am I right? I'm right, right? Tell me I'm right," she giggled out.

Fox:
A flat look was settled on Yusuke as he burst into laughter. Perhaps he was farther behind than first thought... "The offer still stands. It may not be as bad as you think." The fox reached out to give a playful tug to his boyfriend's ear. "At least allow me to take a look." Atsuko's laughter caught him off guard. What sort of mother found her son's academic difficulties so funny? But only the slight widening of his eyes portrayed his surprise.

"Ah, well..." He shrunk a little as that look fell over her face, but he perked right back up again. "Mother works very hard. I do my best not to worry her," he answered with a genuine smile. Thinking of Shiori always brought a happy glow to the red head. "So, I would like to think that you are correct; but I don't suppose my biased opinion is much proof." Oh, how he hoped he could make her life easier. After everything he'd done to her... "I love her dearly. That I can assure you."

EDDE:
The woman pressed clasped knuckles into her cheeks as she leaned on her palms and hummed a little dreamily for his answer. "Know what? I like you. Maybe you can be a good influence on that kid." The offer had her thumbing at him. Only she sat up again, the slightly darker look landing on him once more. "And I'd expect you start working at keeping your hands off my son in the meantime."

A smile landed on said son. "Is breakfast ready?"

"It's right here, you hag," he complained mindlessly as he leaned forward to push the bowls toward her.

This got him an arm around the neck and heavy knuckles digging into his skull. "Show your mother some respect you damn brat."

Whatever comment he began choking on a moment later was very obviously snarky. And it pulled him into a choke and a heavier knuckling as punishment before letting him go and picking up two of the bowl. "You'll be joining us, right? We've all promised each other to behave ourselves." The softly chuckled addition was pointed at Kurama.

Yusuke fussed at his hair in that bubbly pout of his. "Don't do it," he whispered, apparently having changed his mind. "It's a trap!"

"I heard that little man!"

He jumped a bit, and his teasing chuckle was only slightly nervous. He was asking for these things after all with his attitude. "Whaaat~" he chuckled out heavily in question. "He knows when I'm kidding~" A thoughtful look cross him before he looked at Kurama. "You do know when I'm kidding right?"

He waved off the question. "Nevermind. I'll tell you seriously. When the circus is in town, I'm only ever half kidding." He poured the coffee and worked at juggling the cups in his hands. Hot water and a tea bag had been plopped into one at some point. And an empty one sat there presumably for Kurama to decide on his drink.

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
Kurama lifted up his hands in a universal sign of 'I mean no harm,' but he didn't say anything. The fox avoided lying when he could. Stretching the truth was an easy escape, but he had no intention of keeping his hands to himself. Yusuke was simply far too enticing.

"Of course I will join you," the fox answered kindly... Though found himself regretting it. He could usually tell when the detective was playing around, and it didn't seem like Yusuke was joking. At least not completely. "I will simply keep you between them and me," he assured. The fox placed a tea bag followed by hot water into his cup, then helped out his boyfriend by plucking up one of the mugs he was trying to juggle.

The fox kept to his word when out in the living room. Yusuke was always between him and the grabby adults in the room. He sat comfortably at the table and casually sipped his tea. It wasn't the best he'd ever tasted, but it wasn't the worst either. It tasted a little sweeter in the presence of good company. "I believe we have gotten off on the wrong foot," he began. "My name is Shuichi Minamino, and it is a pleasure to meet you, Atsuko."

EDDE:
"Oh?" Atsuko's blink turned curious as the boy introduced himself. "You mean you aren't Kurama?" Her attention fell on Yusuke for a moment. "I haven't met any of your other friends that fit the bill." She turned a devious look back on the fox. "You should hear the way he gushes," she teased.

"Mother! I do not gush!" Heat hit his face and he sunk closer to his cup. "I might say a little. But it ain't like I ever thought you were really listening."

She clapped him on the back with what easily looked like more force than necessary. "Don't be silly Yusuke," she offered cheerily. "Most people can do two things at once. You're not the majority." She laughed as he flushed a bit heavier. He didn't want to feed the beast, but it was better that their attention remained on him. And he was more than glad those two jerks of hers were keeping quiet for the most part. They probably had major hang overs. Not to mention life here was probably one of their favorite soap operas.

Anyway, all he had to do was keep Atsuko interested in him by reacting the way she was aiming for; purposefully or not. And after the night before, he was willing to take that hit for his fox. Her attention turned on Kurama again as she asked him mindless everyday questions about his life, but it wasn't so hyper. This was good. He just had to keep this up and it'd probably go well. He didn't realize he was deflecting just as much for Kurama as he had been for him when their roles were reversed.

He smiled lightly at the fox. Things were much more open here than at his house. Maybe he could enjoy that. Although the smile faded away and he hovered over his cup with a sharp pout as he sipped at it when she went back to teasing him again. And he began debating on changing the subject despite his earlier thought on being willing to play shield. If it was left alone long enough, she was sure to start telling stories about him. Real or not. She knew just the best ways to enrage and embarrass him. And unlike Keiko, the real ones she did have were probably much more devastating.

Fox:
"Ah, yes well..." He paused for a moment. "Shuichi is the name my mother gave me. I would be grateful if you were to use it instead of Kurama, especially around her." The fox sipped his tea and watched as mother and son battled it out, and when the attention was brought back to him, he found it to be much calmer. The cup was placed on the table and his elbows rested on either side of it while his fingers laced together. He answered her questions with ease; where he went to school, his hobbies of gardening and reading, his spectacular grades (though he didn't brag.)

Every time an inquiry was made towards Shiori the fox would light up a little more. He spoke of the life of a single mother and the job she worked so hard at to keep them living a happy life. He had a much easier time with the questioning than Yusuke had, pausing carefully only when Atsuko tried to delve into his demon life. If it were only Atsuko there, then he may have been more open, but the other two were still watching on. "I am not sure what you mean," he answered with a convincingly confused expression.

EDDE:
The woman blinked a few times. And when she was turning to land her own confused look on Yusuke, she caught sight of her two friends. Who had big ridiculous smiles on their faces. Annoyance radiated off a smile she had to offer him. And she waved them off as if they were nothing. It came with a hearty, somewhat nervous chuckle before she landed them with a pouty look. "You two are horrible," she spouted out.

They did some whining and she stood up. "Know what? You're gonna make it up to me. C'mon ladies," she offered them a much happier smile with her hands on her hips. "Time to get up and get ready. We're just eating the day away like this, aren't we?"

They pouted, one whining about not wanting to go yet. The other attempted to bring up that they weren't the ones who were eating up that time. Both did sound pretty miserable. They probably were still harboring headaches.

"'C'mon, c'mon. No butts about it." They seemed to decide to listen easily enough. Yusuke could figure why. His mother was in a really good mood. It'd be best not to mess with it for as long as they could. The only time she was more friendly than right now was probably when she was drunk.

Atsuko seemed to notice she had eyes on her and when she reconised the odd look her son was giving her as he thought just a little too far into her personal life, so she crouched down and practically put her nose to his. He jumped heavily with one of those silly noises of his. But his attempt to pull away better than he was able was thwarted by his own legs stuck under the table. "Ack! What're you doin you freakin' creeper?"

She didn't back off but him doing so gave him a better look of the devious look that crossed her face. "I know what you're thinking," she told him with an eerie tone.

He stiffened, the earlier topic he and Kurama having discussed causing a bit of panic purely for her continuance. "I always know what you're thinking."

He bubbled up quickly and landed a glare on her "What the Hell're you going on about? I wasn't thinking anything!"

"Oh, you were," she told him definitively. She didn't mention she could tell by that silly look on his face. She was quick to grab up her wallet before sitting back down, between them this time. She forced Yusuke to move with what seemed like a push of newfound strength considering the night before. It was to his face. And shoved him back onto his butt and elbows from the position on his legs. "HEY!"

"Know what? I even know what you're thinking before you do sometimes." It wasn't fair. His damned legs had fallen asleep. She landed a knowing look on him and his own grew surprised. She knew! A skeptical look drew over him as he found himself some logic. This happened to him pretty often actually. It was why he hated the seiza position so much. Sitting on his legs at the short table in the living room almost always put his legs to sleep like that, dammit. But something in the back of his mind was keeping him paranoid still, too.

She chuckled and turned back to Kurama, plucking his hands up in hers. She also shed a knowing smile on the redhead before she turned and offered her son a catty grin. She'd palmed some money into his hand. "And because I do, I know exactly what you'll do when I tell you I just gave the shopping money to your friend here. He seems more trustworthy," the last part was a tease.

He whined at her, her name elongated in it. And she looked perfectly pleased as she pretended to conduct it as if it were her orchestra. After offering a mean chuckle for the pout he gave as he sat up and rubbed at his legs she turned back to the fox. "Maybe next time you'll share something with me, hm? Anyway. You'll be a good boy and won't let Yusuke spend that money on the stuff we don't need, right? I assume you'd go together."

Her reasoning for messing with her son this time around she kept all to herself. Although she highly doubted the intelligent redhead wouldn't see through her little attempt to keep them off each other while she was gone. She was still looking at him, waiting patiently for an answer.

Fox:
The relief he felt when the women were shooed away was short lived. The puff of air was sucked back in and Shuichi watched the scene before him take place in a stunned silence. Though, her mention of knowing everything, and Yusuke's reaction to it pulled a smile to his lips despite himself. He could see that hamster wheel turning, and he couldn't decide if he should drop the facade to ease his mind, or just keep it going to watch Yusuke squirm.

The fox jumped as Yusuke was thrown off to the side like a rag doll so Atsuko could sit beside him. "Oh, ah. Yes, perhaps," he answered with a nervous laugh. Talking about his demon heritage was not something he enjoyed doing, especially with someone who would no doubt end up conversing with his mother... A pit fell into his stomach, but the feeling didn't hamper his expression. He jerked again when his hands were suddenly taken in her grasp and money was placed in his palms.

Kurama looked back into the kitchen when the question was asked, and he answered her honestly. "I had intended to assist Yusuke in cleaning the kitchen, and help him with his schoolwork." When he looked back at the woman his smile was sweet and his eyes kind. The perfect son persona he took on so well and enjoyed so much. "But we can always do that upon our return. Is there a list I should follow?"

EDDE:
That perfect son persona had the woman suddenly humming long and low. "I can't stand it anymore!" The movement was quick. She reached out her arms, wrapped them around him, and pulled him in tight. "You're too adorable!"

The movement, with the woman's height on him and the slight jump in her 'step' as it were, her arms ended up enveloping his head in her grasp and pulling him forward-- straight into her chest.

Yusuke made several heavy noises that couldn't form to words in his surprise until he finally got out a panicked yelp of 'mother'. "What the Hell are you doing?!"

"He's just so sweet. I couldn't help it~" she hummed happily as he hugged him tight. "He's so cute!"

"Well, you aren't! Get off him before you suffocate him, you creepy old HAG!" He was pointing accusingly, which forced her to take stock of their position.

"Oh." She let go quickly, a nervous giggle flowing from her for a long moment. Then she suddenly cleared her throat and seemed to get over it herself. "There's no list but Yusuke knows what I like. You uh..." she stood and quickly made her way off to get ready for the day with that nervous laugh following her words. "H-have fun, now."

Fox:
The money that had only just been placed in Kurama's hand was dropped, coins scattering across the floor and making loud clangs to match with the kitsune's 'Urk!' as his face was pulled into an... unexpected place. He held out his arms and his fingers twitched uncomfortably in the air as he tried to figure out where to put his hands. Just as he was about to grasp her forearms to gently pry her off of his face, Yusuke came to his rescue. He was released and Shuichi pulled back to take in a deep breath, his eyes wide and rapidly blinking.

"Does she do that to all of your friends?" He asked with a cough before shaking his head to clear the stunned expression on his face and force away the creeped-out goosebumps on his skin. He had seen into the infinite, and it was terrifying.

The money was gathered up off of the floor and set down on the table. "I suppose we should get ready to leave as well?"

EDDE:
His mother left and Kurama was taking to him. A thoughtful look crossed over his face. "Hm... I wonder..."

Arms crossed, one supporting the other's elbow as his eyes turn off and up to the side. "Ya know, I don't really know. Before I died, I didn't even know I had friends. And I haven't brought many people over since then..."

With a shrug, he stood on legs that had finally woken up and put out a hand on offering for his boyfriend. "But yeah. Let's get ready. We can go out and do something fun while we're shopping," he added pleasantly.

Fox:
"Well, it would be an... interesting quirk," the fox offered while taking Yusuke's hand. Hopefully that 'quirk' would be a one-time thing. The thought of constantly being tossed into the breasts of his boyfriend's mother was not exactly pleasant.

Once safely in Yusuke's room, the fox began to disrobe and carefully fold up the clothing. He'd only worn them for a short amount of time, and between sweating in his nightmare and getting soaked by Atsuko, he'd already caused enough clothes to be tossed into the hamper. They were set on the dresser before the fox moved to gather up his clothes from the night before. He'd been awake and moving around enough that the ache in his backside was nearly nonexistent, which meant squeezing into those tight black jeans was much easier than expected.

Shuichi pulled his hair out of the white turtleneck/tank top hybrid with his usual flourish, then lifted it up high to tie it into its own pretty knot. He looked just as he did the night before. Getting the money into those tight jeans would be a difficult chore, so he left it on the dresser beside Yusuke's clothes. "So," he started. "What does one Yusuke Urameshi do for fun?"

EDDE:
Yusuke fit into his own favorite pair of jeans. He'd been dressed way too hot for going out in the day. He'd been thinking to himself when putting those clothes on that he'd probably be changing them soon. But he paused in picking out a shirt.

After looking over Kurama for a nice long moment he remembered himself and shook his head a little to help focus himself better. When it stopped a mock look of utter surprise was on his face. "Whaaaaat? You don't know what I do for fun?" It was a slight mock toward those idiots who told stories about him.

The look pulled away and swirled into one of pure deviance. "Dont you know, I run around beating random kids up for their lunch money," he started. "Then I go hang out with my giant gang of miscreants." The heavy chuckle he had to offer that thought had him turning back to his shirts. Why was it always so hard to focus on words and doing stuff at the same time?... well not always but it was too hard to remember things right and look so he simple stood there with his finger tapping his chin. "Then after that I probably go out and rob a bank or two to support some kind of ridiculous drug ring. But I don't use that to go out and play. I use all that amazing milk money I picked up earlier to go out and hang at the arcade or whatever."

Now that very veeery last part was true. Although he got a bit of a sour look as he added. "Suck at the arcade more like."

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
He enjoyed it when Yusuke looked him over. If he couldn't have those calloused hands roaming his body, he'd settle for puppy brown eyes. A crimson brow was lifted, and amusement curled his lips. "You do not have the mental capacity to run a drug cartel," he retorted smoothly... perhaps too smoothly. While he'd never taken part in such a thing, he had been a master thief and knew quite a bit about illegal dealings. It was surely different in the human world, but it could only be more difficult in such a tame society.

The fox chuckled at the sour look. "One does not have to be good at something in order to enjoy it. The arcade has never been my scenery of choice, but it sounds like a pleasant way to spend the morning." He thought briefly on what he'd heard during their 'play' behind the bleachers. That a date with Yusuke would involve watching him play video games at the arcade, and it sounded just as nice now as it did then. "Though, I did tell your mother I would not allow you to spend the money on things you did not need," he added thoughtfully.

EDDE:
"Nope!" The cheerily smiled out agreement was probably far too adamant. "But even if I did, I wouldn't wanna. Cause I'm too lazy for all that work too." He chuckled warmly.

The mention of the funds his mother had offered brought his attention to the money. He picked it up and counted it out quickly. "Geez, Mom. She must want me to do all the shopping." It was a lot. But as he looked at the redhead he realized why and laughed lightly. "I bet its cause I have help right now," he pointed out.

"It's fine though," he added with a less exuberant smile. "She said not to buy anything we don't need. She didn't say not to waste in on video games." And this chuckle was cheeky, now showing Kurama that he could and did in fact engage in word play.

He moved over to his desk, offering the pile of schoolwork a sour look before opening a drawer and pulling out some gel. He used it to slick back his hair, apparently having forgotten to grab his shirt still as he brushed it back between his fingers. "So that's fine, right?" Hed given the redhead a moment to absorb and decide on that. Considering his 'good boy' demeanor.

Fox:
The fox watched on as his boyfriend skipped right over his shirts to pick up the money and count through it. He was surprised when Yusuke spoke aloud the thoughts already crossing his mind. Word play was one of Kurama's strong suits, and he never would have thought that the detective had a way with it as well. "I suppose," he started, his eyes following his still half naked partner leave the dresser to start slicking back his hair. As much as he would have enjoyed watching him wander around town shirtless, Shuichi pulled out a familiar white top to toss at the detective's back. "Here," he offered in warning.

"So long as we are still able to gather all that your mother requires, it could not hurt to spend the extra on a few arcade games," he agreed. The gelled hair was a look that suited Yusuke well, and Kurama took a moment to appreciate the strong features of the detective before moving on. "We should go, before your mother realizes our plans," he teased, poking the back of his own neck to gesture towards the 'microchip.'

EDDE:
The shirt landed on his back and stayed. Only because he was wiping the remaining crud on his pants to avoid getting it on the shirt. He turned around and took a standard 'superhero' pose with hands on his hips, puffing out his chest. "Maybe I should wear this like a cape," he teased through that silliness of his for how it had landed. "How's it look?"

He deflated with a happy chuckle before tugging it over his shoulder and putting it on, a little careful of the freshly gelled hair in attempt of sparing it still. Once on his smile turned into a thin line and looked a little nervous for the redhead's gesture. "Uuuh, yeah. Let's go." The agreement was only a little hurried as he stuffed the money in his pocket and grabbed the fox's hand to hurry to the entryway. A giddy chuckle was on his lips as he tapped his shoes on quickly and burst through the door.

Although he turned around and leaned on the railing as he watched his boyfriend don his boots. A breath was taken in of the fresh air and he was smiling as cheerily as ever. "We should go there first. We won't have to carry crap then. And I already know we can get at least six or seven different games outta this. Eight depending on which ones we play."

Fox:
"It looks like a shirt on your back," he answered steadily.

The threat of a microchip seemed to stick, and Kurama had to avoid his mischievous smile while he wondered how long he could draw this out. He allowed himself to be dragged out the door, and even curled his fingers with Yusuke's on the way out. It took him a little longer to pull on his boots than it did for the detective to tap on his shoes. It gave the redhead the chance to think over what was just said. Either Yusuke knew exactly how much was needed during each shopping trip, or he was fairly quick at calculating prices in his head. Impressive for someone who never goes to class, and probably sleeps through it on the rare occasions he did show up.

"Then we will make the best of them," Kurama agreed with a nod. It was such a simple thing; going to the arcade. It was mundane, human, and to be doing it with someone he shared his demon heritage with filled him with a strange excitement. To be doing it with Yusuke spread little wings of heat in his abdomen.

EDDE:
He liked the answer he'd gotten about his shirt. It was a sad cape to be sure. He watched for the few extra moments it took the redhead to put on his boots; just watched. He couldn't really help himself. "Yeah," he agreed cheerily.

He paused for a moment, going over something in his head thoughtfully. "We'll have to go a couple places to get stuff, but it's not a whole lot of extra work," he added warmly after a few moments.

"Oh!" He popped up again. "Hang on. I'll be right back." He slipped back inside for less than a minute before making his way back out just as cheerily. Stepping back into his shoes he smiled at the redhead. "Okay I'm ready. You good?" The tease was given in that silly teasing tone of his as he took his hand once again to offer a small tug in leaving.

Fox:
He watched his boyfriend retreat back into the apartment and return not a moment later to take his hand. Shuichi followed without contest, but removed his hand from Yusuke's once they reached the bottom of the stairs. Due to his lack of pockets, he slipped his thumbs into the belt loops of his pants for comfort while falling into an easy stride beside his friend. "You realize, I have not been to this portion of town more than a few times. You will have to be my guide."

EDDE:
The curious look he gained wasn't for the loss of the hand, but the start of his sentence. He chuckled again. Why was he in such a damn fine mood? Didn't matter. He was totally fine with it.

"No problem. I know this area aaaaall over," he puffed out just as cheerily. "The arcade ain't too far away. And it's pretty close to most of the shops we need to go to too, so there's that."

His own hands slipped up and behind his head as he walked beside him comfortably. "I'm guessing this ain't something you usually use your weekends off for," he added. "What do you usually do, Shuichi?" Just after asking he made a silly face at him and poked out his tongue after adding, "Aside from like studying or something, I mean. What do you, like, go out an do usually?"

Fox:
The fox chuckled softly. "I am sorry to disappoint, but I do not go out much at all," he started. "Most of my time is spent at school, I greatly enjoy my time in the chemistry lab, and it is my responsibility to care for the garden on the roof." Shuichi pondered for a moment before continuing. "On my days off I aid Mother in taking care of the house, tend to our garden or get myself lost in a good book. Though, recently I've spent many weekends watching over Shuuichi, the son of my mother's boyfriend."

A smile was sent to the detective, his own much calmer than Yusuke's. "She was quite eager to send me off, however. I believe she is pleased I finally have a friend to spend my time with. Though, I'll admit," he paused to look down at himself. "She is unaware of my attire. I doubt she would approve."

EDDE:
He chuckled as he listened to what he might deem the obvious part of the answer. Then again, he hadn't been completely sure. Because he'd been shown a few things he didn't expect from the teen beside him.

Him arms pulled back down, and he walked in a more normal fashion as that thoughtful bubble of his reared itself. He knew he'd heard him say that name before. He'd just thought maybe he misheard him then or something. But that wasn't the part that hit him hard enough to make him think like that. And as the look crossed his face that said just as loudly how odd he thought it was, he mentioned it. "Your mom is dating?" Although he wasn't sure why it seemed so odd. He barely knew the woman. So, he slipped back into that smile.

"Is it weird that it's weird?" Kurama might be able to answer the question he couldn't seem to for some reason. He couldn't think it wasn't though... Although the sweet, seemingly perfect demeanor she had maybe made it hard to think such a thing. Did people think much on their mothers dating? He didn't suppose he'd know that. He tried not to as often as possible though, considering that his mother dated as a profession.

The arcade really wasn't that far away. And as they landed on the street he turned the corner with a light, "This way." He lifted a hand to point out the area where many teens seemed to be milling about mindlessly. "Mph. I didn't think about how packed it might be today," he added almost to himself. Hopefully it wasn't as packed as the people milling about made it seem.

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
"She is, and it's not such a strange feeling. It was a bit uncomfortable for me as well, but he treats her kindly, and she comes home elated whenever they are out together, so I am happy for her," he said. "What has taken the most to get used to is his son's name. It is so similar to mine that we often get confused. I tend to address him by his middle name. Kokoda." A smile curled his lips. "He despises it."

The arcade did seem packed, but only after a moment of searching with his eyes, he found a set of game stations that were empty. "There," he offered, before leading the way over and taking a seat. "Have you ever played Goblin City? I own the cartridge but have never played it at the arcade."

EDDE:
That cheery smile of his returned as he heard of the woman's elation over this man. "Yeah," he added with a chuckle. "When you first said his name, I got pretty confused..." a smirk crossed his face as he slowed down just a little to get a look at his ass in those great huggy pants. "Then distracted." The chuckle that followed was decidedly more devious, and obviously a little perverted.

He looked around curiously himself. Most of his favorite games had quarters sitting on them. They were place holders; arcade etiquette. And they indicated long enough lines to be a little annoying.

The newer game had several stations, a large area devoted to its release. So, they got a little lucky with that. As the question was asked, a slight tinge of red brushed over his nose and cheeks. "Uh yeah, a little," he offered lightly.

He sucked so bad at this game. So bad, in fact, that he tended not to like playing it. It was just way too frustrating for him. "Man, I bet you could get pretty good at this if you had it at home though." Although as he thought about it, he doubted he'd even have the want to play it enough then not to suck so bad.

It really was frustrating.

Fox:
Color touched his cheeks when Yusuke hung back to appreciate his backside. It was both exhilarating and embarrassing, and he wondered if that was how Keiko felt about Yusuke's flirtation. He wondered if she liked it as much as he did. But his attention fell away to the video games quickly enough.

"Come, join me. It will be much more entertaining if we play together; and, defeating the goblin king will be easier if we work together." He caught the sound of his name, but resisted looking behind him to see who'd called it.

"Is that Minamino?"

"No way, he'd never wear something like that... Besides, that's gotta be a girl."

Irritation caused a tick under his right eye.

"Gotta be one of Urameshi's floozies. You know he's got a harem of sluts in his gang."

Another twitch.

"Bet you he pays her with money he steals from his classmates." Collective laughter followed.

EDDE:
Yusuke didn't catch the comments until the one just before he heard his own name. But that was more than enough. The look he turned on the gossipers wasn't annoyance or anger. It was nervous; nervous.

And as it turned back to Shuichi it only grew more so. But even as he picked up such a look, he had to wonder if the fox would actually do anything about it. After all it seemed like he had a really specific persona he strived for when it came to normal humans. So actually, he was more curious than anything. Although that look probably had those idiots thinking. It had to be hard to make 'The Great Urameshi' look like that. But there it was. And they were staring at the obvious source of it right alongside him.

Fox:
It was tempting to turn around; to tell his school mates just how he felt about being called a floozy, and their vast misrepresentation of his boyfriend... He would have, had he been wearing anything else. For a moment, the fox felt uncomfortable in his skin, and wished he'd just worn Yusuke's clothes for their trip to the store. The teen's eyes would still have trailed over his body, he was certain. But going back to change now would be ridiculous, that and they'd never get any shopping done. Kurama settled for grasping his boyfriend's pants to tug him down to sit at the station beside him for a co-op game.

Shuichi turned his head just enough to place a warm, sweet kiss to Yusuke's lips. He let it linger for several seconds before he pulled away. "Ignore them. They know nothing of what they speak." He could hear a gagging noise from behind him, as well as a disgusted 'ew' as the small group of students walked on and the fox preen in his attempt to follow his own advice.

Without another word, Kurama slipped in two quarters that he'd snagged from Yusuke's pocket, and watched as the game began.

EDDE:
He was tugged down by his jeans and nearly fell onto the stool beside his foxy boyfriend due to how unprepared he was for it, but settled rather quickly for the soft look he was given just after.

Yusuke's expression softened immensely. And a warm smile was pointed toward his boyfriend when their lips parted; only for a sudden preen of absolute offense to hit him as well as he turned to the game quickly himself. His fist clenched tightly around his joystick over the juvenile noises they made toward the sweet moment they'd shared together.

But he'd promised he wouldn't hurt the redhead's classmates... hm... what had he said about them pissing him off though? He shook the devious thought away as he fished out a few quarters for himself. They'd need the change machine to play more games side by side, but this was fine for now. As the opening screen started, one he was sure now they were both used to, he peeked at the redhead from the corner of his eye for a long moment, taking him in before turning them back.

"It's not too much or anything," he mentioned lightly as a smile drew across his lips while staring at the screen. "I think you look amazing," he added in explanation.

As the roller began its spin to tell them what they were playing and its difficulty he chuckled lightly. "But I like how you look normally too, if it's more comfortable for you." They had a lot to do, but it was still morning, and they had all day. He'd have no problem if Shuichi wanted to take him up on his offer. And his eyes slid over to that slender neck of his to look over how well it connected that ridiculously smart head of his to his shoulders.

He was about to add to it again, but the roller stopped. And it landed on one of his least favorite games. "Ugh. Not that," he whined with a pout and grumbled out. "I hate math." Despite his display of skills pertaining to it earlier, this sort of math was totally different.

So, a smile came back to his lips as he pointed at Shuichi's screen. "You any good at '777'? I don't get very far." Wasn't it just his luck to get one of the highest difficulties the starting point of the game allowed, too?

Fox:
A strange warmth filled him as Yusuke looked him over and complimented his appearance. It wasn't a rare occurrence for him, many of his classmates vied for his attention and it meant very little to him. Even if he did smile and modestly accept the compliment, it was always an act to fit into his perfect student persona. When Yusuke said it, he felt almost... giddy. The fact that he also caught on to his mild distress over his outfit was a little unsettling, however. The fox didn't like to be read so easily.

"I think returning home to change would be best," he answered. It would be easier to be bold in his attraction to the delinquent when he wasn't worried about rumors reaching his mother.

"You would be better at it if you did your schoolwork," the fox offered smoothly as he took the joystick in one hand and rested the fingers of his other over the buttons. "I will take this game if you take the next." The round began and Shuichi focused on the screen. He was good at triple 7; making only a few small mistakes that were easily corrected. The AI had no chance; and, in no time, the victory screen was playing.

EDDE:
He nodded lightly. "Just let me know when you wanna go," he offered before the game started, a mild pout and turn of his eyes given toward the comment about school.

It faded soon though and was replaced with mild amazement. "Oh wow! You're really good at this," he complimented. Eventually that amazement was replaced with amusement. It started when the thought that he probably did need to put more into school to get better at it crossed his mind. And continued as he went off on his own tangent about how it would just be too perfect that getting better at a video game should be his motivation for that. And various comments from just about every person he knew, whether sarcastic or in agreement had him chuckling shortly after that.

Suddenly the mini game was over, and the roller was going again. Aw man. Please be something easier. Don't make me look like a total failure right of the bat?

The roller slowed and Yusuke shut his eyes and noticed he'd landed a hand on top of Shuichi's at some point. He couldn't help but squeeze and offer a whine that was only half teasing. "Mph. I can't look. Tell me what it is, Shuichi." He might be being a little over dramatic, but they were supposed to be having fun here. How was that supposed to happen if he didn't play around some, after all?

Fox:
Again, that giddiness crossed his mind when Yusuke's hand fell on his own. It was so strange, yet so normal. It was a purely human reaction, and he was thankful the detective closed his eyes and failed to see the color that striped over the bridge of his nose. Shuichi found himself staring down at the point of contact, and only pulled himself from his thoughts when the mini game was revealed. "You are in luck, Yusuke," he started. "If I recall correctly, you enjoy fighting games; and the difficulty level is fairly low." His tease was light, but cruel in its nonchalance.

EDDE:
His eyes narrowed on the redhead through a smirk as they opened. He was pretty sure he was making fun of him, but he didn't really care. He liked it when his boyfriend teased him. A thought on that particular thought made him pause for a moment. Because it became something totally different when put like that. What he meant was he liked it when Kurama teased him. Er.. Well he could like it when... Yeah, but that wasn't... Wait why was he correcting himself and stumbling over it in his own damned mind?

A huff left his chest that could have easily been for the tease he received. The heat that covered his face, however, wasn't so easily explained.

He turned to the screen quickly. "I'll show you easy," he grumbled. But that comment only made it worse. It did absolutely nothing for that heat on his face; except maybe make it worse. What the hell was wrong with him?

The frustration over his own mental issue, on the other hand, only made his gameplay better. He passed the round with little difficulty. And even managed to vent a bit of that frustration. So, when he won the exuberant 'ha' he let of was fully felt. "Check out the master~," he teased boastfully as he flexed his biceps dramatically... Despite how very unmasterful one needed to be to beat the round.

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
"I am aware that green is your color of choice, however," the fox looked over his boyfriend's expression and admired the flush that had suddenly grown across his cheeks. "Red suits you just as well." He really had no place to talk, but he wanted to see that color darken for more reasons than exertion.

Watching the game became boring after only a few moments, and he returned his attention to the player. Yusuke was far more interesting. The various facial expressions he made during game play was both amusing and endearing. The man wore his emotions on his sleeve, and it was a breath of fresh air compared to his own secretive lifestyle. "Yes Yusuke, very impressive." His tone was patronizing.

Together they played a few more rounds, with the fox offering condolences for Yusuke's loses and taking over when things got a little too difficult and only frustrated the young detective. They were meant to have fun, not put the teen into an uncomfortable situation. "Which games do you usually spend your time playing?" He questioned after a while. "I would not mind changing seats."

EDDE:
Of course, the offered words only helped and hurt in the same way. But Kurama did get that heavy flush from him. One that faded through his match.

Thanks to him, they didn't make it to the victory screen at the end. Although he did hold up pretty well despite himself. Not that it stopped him from pouting at the screen once he lost for them. It turned thoughtful though. "Well, I was probably best at the racing game before, but I kinda lost interest in it." The way this was said hinted toward the fact that he wasn't really sure why that might be. And given the fact that he didn't tend to think about much very often it was entirely possible it was true.

"I usually hang at the mortal combat game. Hmm... I take a shot at the shooting ones every once and a while. I'm actually getting pretty good at those." Again this was said just as thoughtlessly, that silly smile of his never fading even as his eyes roamed the redhead mildly. "Aaand every once in a while, I'll play the claw games. But if I win, I usually find little kid to give the stuffed animals to. I don't really care about them and it's not like you wanna just toss'm back in the pot or something after you went and spent all that time winning, so why not?"

This time though, the comment brought up a thought of Puu. A slightly perturbed look crossed his face as he realised he'd not only forgotten to feed him, but had ignored him enough to forget to check on him at all before they'd left. "Aw man," he added awkwardly. "Remind me I ain't the typah guy who should get a pet." The offer included a light, nervous chuckle at the end. "And maybe to check on the little guy when we get back if you can remember."

Fox:
"Well, that does make sense. After your brush with death, it isn't surprising that you would be averse to such a game." Botan was such a blabber mouth. He knew all about Yusuke's heroic deed that nearly took his life. For such a delinquent, the detective was so willing to give his life for others. It was a rare trait, and one Kurama found intriguing. Especially after the incident on the hospital roof. "For someone with such a poor reputation, you have quite a soft spot for children." It was fitting, really.

"I have yet to play Mortal Kombat with anything other than a controller. Shall we continue there?" The fox paused after standing, a look of recognition reaching his face. They'd forgotten all about Puu! "Duly noted. Perhaps we should bring him home something from the market? What does he eat?"

EDDE:
Yusuke thought about the reasoning. "Huh... I guess that does make sense," he nodded out lightly. The thought that Kurama and he hadn't talked about that before didn't cross his mind. It had happened to him, so it being brought up just seemed natural. Besides, he was too busy blushing a little and focusing on the addition about his soft spot for children. "Yeah whatever," he attempted to brush off. For some reason he almost felt like he was being teased for his soft side. Then again he usually was.

"Sure," he added casually. "I think I like playing them better this way. Not sure why though." It was more frugal the other way. But it didn't feel the same on a few levels.

A shrug lifted his shoulders as he led the way over to the fighting games. Most of them were also grouped together even though they didn't all have the same title. "Just about anything. That freaking puppet is like a bottomless pit..." A chuckle pushed through him as he set a quarter on two Mortal Combat games side by side to keep their place in line. There was only one person in front of them on each one. "I know. I checked a little after we got back..." Thinking about this, he realised that might be a good deal of the reason they had so little food left in their place. He'd fed the little fuck a lot at that point.

He chuckled again but moved to a more pressing matter. "Wanna wait here while I get change, or would you rather go get it?" The machine was only a few steps away, but it was around the corner of these machines. Just cause he'd secured their places didn't mean they wouldn't be taken if they walked off. It was arcade etiquette, not arcade law.

Fox:
The fox waited in line while Yusuke fetched the quarters, and by the time Yusuke returned it was their turn to play. The detective took the win for the majority of their first matches; but, once Kurama got used to the controls the games became less one-sided, and he managed to gather a few victories for himself. It was difficult, however, as he continued to distract himself by looking over at his date. The faces Yusuke made when he was concentrating were nothing short of kissable.

They played to their hearts content, drifting from one group of machines to another until their spending money ran out. Then they left the arcade with smiles on their faces and lingering laughter following them back to Kurama's home. Once there, the fox pulled a single key from the tiny pocket in his tight jeans, then opened the door to allow his guest inside.

"I will have to be quick. Mother will return soon." That was the excuse given to keep his boyfriend from following him up to his room. Shiori wouldn't spray them with a hose, but he could only imagine the look on her face should she find them in a compromising situation. He wasn't going to let that happen. So, he left his boyfriend to wait in the living room while he redressed into more casual attire. Shuichi wasn't gone long before the front door opened again.

Shiori pushed open the door with her foot, her arms full with two bags of groceries. She didn't seem to have any issue carrying them once the path was clear. She was just about to call for her son to see if he'd come home yet, when her sights fell on Yusuke. "Oh! It's good to see you again, Yusuke. Would you be a dear and shut the door for me?" She asked, already headed towards the kitchen to place down the bags.

EDDE:
A good majority of his losses came from his own distraction. He simply couldn't help himself. Keeping his eyes off Kurama for long was insanely difficult. Especially knowing he'd be losing that very unique vision soon enough. Although, that didn't necessarily mean he'd have any less trouble once he'd changed.

When their eyes caught he would look away quickly, faint colour touching his cheeks for being 'caught'. They played several more games. And while he still didn't want to leave when the time came, that reserve of control he almost never tended to control well allowed him to follow through more easily with the redhead there.

Their walk was pleasant; filled with mindless chit chat and a few exuberant jabs and fighting poses played off by Yusuke in reminiscence of their game play. He had tried the claw machine once or twice, but he hadn't won today.

When they got to Shuichi's house spirits were still high. His shoes came off as they entered and the slightest bit of a pout puddled over his face through a mumbled, "Kay."

He was left alone, and it set him just a little on edge with the news that the woman would be home soon. But he was far too cheerful to be hit too hard by it. How awesome was it that this humdrum everyday life he was less used to lately could be so enthralling with the single input of his new boyfriend?

He practically jumped off the couch when the door opened though, that nervousness hitting him much harder. "Hi!" The half yelp startled him, and he was quick to make an attempt to recover. It came in the form of taking up one of those bags despite the fact that she looked like sure wasn't having much difficulty, with a hurried 'sure' played off as he moved toward the door.

This wasn't any less awkward though. Geez what the Hell was wrong with him? And why did this woman throw him off so damned bad? Following her into the kitchen was done a bit more slowly as he schooled his face into not allowing the flush that wanted to cross it. "So uh... How's your day going?"

Thank God. What a nice, normal question to fall from him so suddenly instead of something else. It even left him calmer this time as he set down the bag and stepped out of her way.

Fox:
"Thank you." The woman smiled but kept herself from laughing at the jumpy teen. His discomfort was cute, but she didn't want to make him so uncomfortable he never returned. She would be beside herself if she were the cause of Shuichi's friend turning tail and running home. The bags now on the table, she set about pulling items from them and putting them in their places. "Busy," she answered with a bright expression. "But in a good way. Did you and Shuichi have a nice night together? He was so eager to see you that he hardly said 'goodbye.'" Shiori's words were kind and happy as she shut the refrigerator door.

"Do you plan to stay long? I would be happy to make lunch for the three of us." She was already turning on the rice cooker.

EDDE:
"Really?" The candor toward Shuichi's departure the day before calmed his nerves a little. Although he couldn't help but figure a lot of that hurried exit had to do with his outfit. He didn't seem very willing to let her see it. "Ah. Yeah." The answer came with a much less awkward, and far more pleasant smile.

"We met up with some friends and messed around in the park for a while after dinner." He was at least a little tactful here. Two things governed that. His own mother's reaction to their little transgression she'd witnessed, and Kurama's not so telling but still telling remarks about making this woman mad. He only had one example in his own life to go on by that. And while he doubted this sweet woman could be quite as horrible as she could be, he wasn't willing to find out.

The next answer was stumbled over a little more. He couldn't tell if she simply expected the answer to be yes or not. "Um.. W-well I have some shopping to do. I haven't gone for a while so we're pretty much out of food entirely... And then I think he was probably planning on forcing me to do some schoolwork." Damn. Should he gave said helping? Too late now. "But I mean..." It was way too heavy thinking he might disappoint her. For his own sake as much as hers.

After all, what would Kurama do if he upset her? He shook his head a bit to clear any images that might have been forming over what he could only guess on creative punishments that could come from that big brain of his. Besides. They probably had time. "Well, I think we might have time," he finished in a bit of a mumble.

He didn't notice until he turned the awkward look that was back on his face to catch her mood; but he'd practically backed himself out of the room in order to avoid being in her way. Or was he just way too ready to go already?

Blinking out a bit of confusion he looked back at the large frame that led toward the living room. How?... He looked around the room to follow their footsteps back from where he'd started in trying to catch up. "I think he'd know better than me," he added quickly once he'd gotten his bearings a little better.

Depending on how much of that pile he planned on making him do it could take all day and more. Then there was the movie they'd talked about earlier; or had he just thought about that? And, of course, if other things left undone previously through his mother's horrible interruption were still on the table... Well. There was no telling how long that might take.

He'd just made a huge mistake no matter what, though. He hadn't meant to half accept at all. He'd actually had other plans for their lunch too.

Aw Hell.

Fox:
"That's quite alright Yusuke, if you can't stay, then just promise to make the time to get something to eat while you're out," the woman's tone was kind, even as she filled the rice cooker for a lunch for one. Of course, she put in quite a bit, as she liked to prepare her and Shuichi's boxed lunches ahead of time. Yusuke's fumbling was another adorable quirk, and she wondered how he acted when he and Shuichi were alone. He'd seemed so proud and boasting before, and he'd just said Shuichi was going to 'force' him to do homework, so he wasn't a very studious person. He seemed so different from her son, and yet Shuichi had been so excited to spend time with him. She found it odd, but it made her happy, nevertheless. Her son was happy, and that was all she needed to know in order to like this boy.

"Shuichi was all smiles the whole day, and all he could talk about was spending time with you."

"M-Mother!" The fox reached the bottom of the stairs just in time, and he felt his cheeks heat up. He now wore well fitted jeans, a white shirt, and a bright orange jacket. His hair was still up, and Shiori smiled. He had such a pretty face, and the woman loved when Shuichi pulled up his hair to show it off.

"Oh, come now Shuichi, there's no need to be embarrassed. It's good to have a friend you're excited to spend time with." She tried not to laugh when her words just made him flush harder. "Do you have the time for some lunch? Yusuke says you have a long day."

The fox made his way over to his fidgety boyfriend and offered the lightest touch to his arm in an attempt to sooth his nerves. "Perhaps something quick? I am not sure how long it will take to acquire everything, and there is quite a bit of work Yusuke needs assistance with."

"Then how about a few sandwiches? I just bought some lunch meat and cheese. Do you like turkey, Yusuke?"

EDDE:
Damn, damn, damn! He'd totally forgotten or something in his panic. He had run back inside to grab his own cash cause he was gonna take Shuichi out for a surprise lunch date. But it was too late to mention it by the time he pulled it up in his mind. And it was really, really hard not to look a little crest fallen over it.

Heat punched him in his own face heavily. From gentle words of the woman and a light touch of his boyfriend. He peeked at him for a quick moment before quickly turning his attention away to hide the heavier flush that came with his own admission for comforts sake; that was totally true. "I was real excited too. And I don't think it could have gone any better either. It's been great so far."

His head tilted as chocolate eyes landed on the woman. "Hm?" With his nerves calmed a little from the gentle touch. He could think a little better. "Yeah. I mean I like food. Most food." He chuckled lightly.

"Maybe just one though. I been working on my cooking. It'd prob'ly be good to have something small so our appetite isn't spoiled later." It was a believable enough excuse, right? He wondered how well he'd pulled it off. Although even if he hadn't it couldn't be too obvious what his plan was anyway, right?

More heat punched him. And he grew fidgety again. Why couldn't he settle down his damned nerves? Butterflies were fluttering in his stomach but not in a good way honestly. Actually, he was feeling just a little queasy. But he just couldn't fathom how this woman could put such an edge on him.

It wasn't bad enough to bother him sharply, but he just couldn't grasp it. Was it cause he was worried she'd read him? Or maybe he was scared he'd somehow screw up and offend her. It wasn't something that he often had to deal with. Usually, he had an attitude that if someone didn't like him, they could simply fuck off. But he was nowhere near there with her.

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
He tried to hide it, but Shiori caught the small flash of melancholy across Yusuke's face; and she watched the boy interact with flushed faces and nervous fidgets. The nerves coming mostly from their guest, Shuichi was gathering himself up as quickly as usual. Though, as Yusuke mentioned how well their day was going, she noticed her son's eyes sparkling with delight.

"Yes. It was a lovely night, and I am enjoying our day together." The fox assured, peeking around the teen to try and get a look at the adorably flushed face. He was discovering all kinds of new expression, and he'd found he loved this one in particular.

Yusuke's excuse was a good one, but the woman was catching on to the various clues. She turned to the bag on the table and looked inside to see the loaf of bread she'd bought at the market. "Oh, silly me. I've forgotten to get bread," she said with a small frown. "I'm sorry boys, you'll just have to get something while you're out." The fox moved to speak, but his mother cut him off with a wave of her hand while stepping closer to them. "Don't worry about the bread, Shuichi. I get some later. You just have fun, alright?" She placed her hands on his shoulders and Kurama leaned his head down so she could kiss his forehead lovingly. "If you plan to spend the night again, drop by to pick up your toothbrush."

Shiori turned to Yusuke and placed one hand on his shoulder lightly. "Take care of my Shuichi," she stated sweetly before shooing them off with a few waves of her hands. "Now go on, have fun."

EDDE:
Yusuke blinked a few times for the woman's excuse. He'd brought that bag in. And he was pretty sure he'd seen bread in it. The knowing look didn't have time to reach his face once recognition had. Mostly because he couldn't help but smile at their interaction. And of course, once attention was placed firmly on him once again his lips pressed into a thin, nervous smile. Not for the realization, but for the attention itself. He almost expected similar treatment out of it. And man would that be awkward.

What he got instead brought a far sharper flush to his face and he forced out a light, "Y-yeah." Stuttered as it was, he couldn't help but read further into her words even if she didn't mean it like that.

He managed to correct himself from looking like a total idiot. But he waited for Kurama to turn away before he did. A calm, far more charming smile crossed over his face in offering toward the woman. He knew. And he let her know he did. With a silently mouthed 'thank you' mixed in that smile he was scurrying past Kurama to get away from the awkward situation quickly. He was grateful of course, but he was still uncomfortable. And he couldn't help but wonder what exactly had pushed her to do and say those things; and wondered how horribly obvious they might be.

Tapping on his shoes as fast as he could he burst from the house quickly. And while he waited to do so until he got to the sidewalk, he paused and turned to face the redhead as he caught up just as he had at his own place. "Geez I'm so friggin lame," he complained once he'd met him as he turned to start off again.

"You're mom's still pretty damn cool though." He debated on mentioning her radar, feeling like it might still be on his own frequency despite Kurama thinking he'd disarmed it. But he opted for asking his question simply instead. "She seems pretty smart too. Think she might already know what's going on?"

Fox:
Kurama gave his mother a warm hug and a promise to be back before nightfall to either return home or to gather things for a second sleep over. Then he followed Yusuke outside at a much calmer pace, and with sneakers instead of boots. "She isn't going to bite you," the fox teased at his boyfriend's self-deprecating words. "You should not worry so much, she likes you. A lot."

Yusuke praised his mother and the fox slid his hand into the detective's happily. "She is very perceptive. She had to be. I was not the easiest child to deal with," he admitted, followed by a thoughtful hum. "I hope not," he answered, though he knew that could be taken in a terrible way and quickly added an explanation. "Once she knows it will become much more difficult to find time alone with you. Or rather, private time alone with you." There was a long pause. "Then again..." the fox looked over his boyfriend and felt a strong warmth fill him from head to toe. It was another human feeling, he was sure of it. He'd never felt anything quite like this before. "I believe sharing this with her would feel very good."

EDDE:
A giddy smile slid across his face as his fingers coiled in the hold the redhead had taken as he looked him over. He'd been right. This look was nothing like the view he'd had with the other outfit. But there was no depreciation there. Chocolate eyes roamed over far better covered features before sliding up his neck and over pulled back hair.

He'd almost fully distracted himself. His smile turned a little shy at the news of his mother liking him so much. He couldn't help but harp on himself just a little. "I already toldja. Give it time," he teased; well half teased. It was a possibility after all.

He tugged the redhead along as he continued about her knowledge and perception. But he almost paused when he saw the warmth that blossomed in those pretty emerald eyes. Instead, the same warmth blossomed in his smile, and he couldn't help but lean over and press a kiss to his jaw; that being the easiest reached spot on his face with their height difference and his position as he landed in. "I'd hate to lose the time. But I'm sure you could think of ways around it with that big brain of yours." And that was because, "I agree. And I bet she'd like to be in on it. Besides. It didn't really seem fair for my mom to know but keep yours on the dark." Actually, put like that it almost sounded downright cruel.

Fox:
So far Kurama had kept his cool during little affections like the little kiss to his jawline, but having it happen so soon after that strange feeling caused him to look up and away with the faintest hint of color over his nose. It was so... strange and yet it felt so good he couldn't hate it. No matter how squirmy it made him feel.

"Well, we didn't exactly tell your mother," the fox pointed out. "But, I believe I will let her know..." A thought came to him that paled his face and made him stop in his tracks. "Mother will definitely want to speak with yours." For the first time Yusuke would be able to see panic in Kurama's eyes, and the fox tugged on Yusuke's arm urgently. "You don't think she will tell my mother how she found us, do you? She would be furious!"

EDDE:
That warm smile of his could be so calming and absolutely downright charming. But it wasn't calming enough at the moment it seemed. The sudden change in the smooth fox's demeanour had him blinking several times. A bit of panic rose in him as well, if not only for clearly seeing the sudden change in him then for his own thought on that.

But he managed to calm himself down quickly. Ever the protector, that soft, gentle smile returned, and a warm arm found its way into sliding around Shuichi's shoulder despite the awkwardness of it not fully making it like he'd like due to their somewhat severe height different. "Listen," he offered warmly. "Mom's an asshole, but she's not totally tactless." He had to pause fully for a moment before adding, "when she's sober."

To offset the awkwardness his hand slid down instead to rub at his back, down his spine, and between his shoulder blades. "She already knows how much it pissed her off. And once they meet, I'm sure she'll get a pretty good picture of your mom just like I did. As long as they talk when she's lucid, I'm sure it'll be fine."

A thoughtful bubble crossed his features for a moment before he gave an additional comforting offer. "And I'll talk to her too. To try and make sure. Kay?"

Fox:
The warm attention was helpful. Having Yusuke's arm around him was enough to at least slow his rapid heartbeat. If his mother found out that he was having sex, then he wouldn't be allowed to leave the house for anything other than school until the day he moved out. He could imagine her disappointed look, the stern tone in her voice and the sharp point to his room that would send him there like a wounded puppy. How long would that expression last? He couldn't bare the thought of her looking at him like damaged goods for days, weeks, months...Years? The fox released a pitiful whine that came with pinched and upturned eyebrows.

The gentle petting to his spine straightened it out, and Kurama sighed softly, slowly returning to his usual calm. Yusuke knew his own mother very well, and they had a strange, but strong relationship. There was reason to be worried of course, but... "If you believe it will be fine, then I do as well." Another puff of air was released, and the fox finished collecting himself; he stood straight, and his eyes were bright but calm. "Thank you, Yusuke," he said with a small smile.

EDDE:
He pulled away when the redhead settled some. But slid a hand back into his grasp as they continued their walk back toward his side of town. "Soooo," he started in changing the topic. "You wanna eat or shop first?" His smile was still mild and warm.

And he had to push away the bit of colour that was trying to touch his face as he gave away his secret just a little more. He's planned on taking him out for a meal after all. He figured the question might make that obvious because otherwise they'd have to shop before eating. He didn't have anything at home to make. Shiori's behaviour toward the subject was what had had him asking that question about her in the first place. The woman seemed like she knew more than she should.

Fox:
Yusuke's hand slid into his, and Shuichi was happy to lace their fingers together again. The act gave him a special sort of butterflies that made no sense at all, and yet felt comfortable. "Oh?" The choices had him pondering for only a moment, because he finally connected the same dots his mother had. The fact that she figured it out before he did was a slight blow to his pride, but he didn't feel it over those same butterflies spreading their wings in his belly. They were going on a date! The thought made him squirmy all over again, and the fox had to consciously calm himself.

"I am a bit peckish," he answered. They'd only had half an omelette each, and they'd worked up quite the appetite last night. "Where shall we go?"

EDDE:
"There's plenty of places to eat downtown," he offered cheerily. He'd caught a bit of his boyfriend's excitement and it fueled his own right along with that colour that finally did touch his cheeks a little. But the soft flush didn't pull away from his cheery look. After all, they were going on a date. The arcade had been a part of it sort of, but he hadn't wanted him to be uncomfortable for the rest of it.

He listed off the many sit-down restaurants as well as the fast-food joints in the area they'd been in before; expensive, cheap, and even medium priced. Really there was just about every kind of restaurant in the area. And he wanted the redhead to choose one. He didn't care that it'd eat into his pocketbook either. It wasn't hard to get more one way or another.

He'd realized when he'd initially had the idea how shady his own thinking sounded. But he'd known what he meant.

"So, you know. Whatever you're in the mood for," he offered as he finished the somewhat long list.

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
Yusuke listed off places and the fox released a thoughtful hum. The polite thing to do would be to pick a fast-food place in order to be kind to his date's wallet, but he was sure the detective would see right through him. Shuichi didn't like fast food very often; it tasted like cardboard. He brushed away the names of expensive restaurants, but one name caught his attention: Ocean Blue. It was a sushi bar he'd gone to before, and if memory served it had fair prices and some delicious eel.

"I have a strong liking for sushi," the fox admitted. "If you have no qualms, may we go to Ocean Blue?"

As they closed in on Yusuke's 'turf' people began to avoid the couple, either darting around them or just plain running across the street. Kurama paid them no mind.

EDDE:
Contrary to popular opinion there were actually a few places the raven-haired teen tended to steer away from to avoid confrontations; more lately than previously. Ocean Blue tended to be one of those places, he not caring to incite a scuffle over turf with normal humans. But. The place wouldn't have been on his list of he honestly had a big problem with going.

Not only were the guys that hung out there total pushovers even compared to him back when he'd been normal-- well more normal than now anyway-- they actually were the type that picked on weaklings and stole lunch money. On a day off, with kids out of school and hanging out, it was more likely they were out shaking people down for fun and pocket padding than hanging around doing nothing. He figured it was worth the shot, and, of course, if there was a run in, he'd simply have to deal with it when it happened. The list he'd had to offer had been as expansive as it was because he had wanted to give his boyfriend his pick of the crop. It was a chance to learn something about him while being able to openly dote on him at the same time.

Anything might be better than the ridiculous meal they'd ended up with the night before, but just anything just wasn't good enough today. He wanted to really make it up to him.

"No sweat," he told him happily. Hell, even if those idiots were hanging around anyway, it'd probably only take one good look for them to back off. As he led the redhead to the restaurant, he tucked away the bit of knowledge he'd been graced with for later. Maybe he should learn how to make some sushi stuff. He wondered how awkward it'd be to ask Shiori about it for a moment but wiped the thought away quickly.

Idiots were ignored just as well as pretty much everyone else. His attention was on Kurama while they went. His personal territory had gotten significantly smaller since he'd died. There'd been a time when he'd worked at winning it back, but really, he didn't have much care to anymore. The area was still his stomping ground regardless. Even in areas that were no longer 'his' he was left alone for the most part. The worst he got was some random nobody trying to pick a fight with him every once in a while, in attempt of making a name for themselves. That didn't happen on the way though.

So, it didn't take them long to get to the place and be seated at all. When they were handed menus, he thought to ask his boyfriend if he'd been there before and what he liked. And the conversation flow remained pretty dormant through their ordering and while they waited for their food too. Life was entirely too peaceful for him really. But living it with Shuichi at his side currently allowed him a lot more peace with that on a spiritual level than what he'd had for it when he'd been dealing with it on his own.

Fox:
The walk was soothing. Quiet, but not uncomfortable in the least. However, he did notice that some of those people sent running stopped to look at his boyfriend with ill intent. They didn't follow through, nor did they seem to be following, so the fox ignored them in favor of paying the utmost attention to his detective. The sudden possessive thought left him tingling. When they took their seats at the restaurant Kurama had a difficult time paying attention to the menu. His eyes kept drifting up in hopes of meeting Yusuke's.

How pathetic he must be. A demon should not fawn over pretty brown eyes that had such kindness hiding beneath hardened delinquency; but... he wasn't a demon anymore. Not as he used to be, anyway. He was human, and that made him feel all warm and fuzzy. How pathetic... How perfectly pathetic.

"At the moment I have a craving for Unagi; however, my usual tastes lay in saltwater crab and salmon."

They talked about everything and nothing. Idol prater about school; or in Yusuke's case his lack of schooling. They spoke on hobbies and pass times, as well as casual happenings in their lives. Kurama was so caught up in their conversation that he hardly noticed the food he was eating. It tasted just fine of course, but Yusuke was just so much more interesting. Even when his boyfriend started on his old fighting habits, Shuichi was enthralled. So much so he hadn't noticed the teens glaring at them from across the restaurant.

The check came, and the fox had to stop himself from reaching into his own pocket to pay for his own food... He would pay for the next date. "Thank you, Yusuke. This was lovely."

As they left, Shuichi couldn't help himself. Not only did he lock their fingers together again, he leaned in to place a short, sweet kiss to the detective's lips. Their audience sneered, and again Kurama was so wrapped up in his boyfriend that he just didn't notice. Not until they left the building and a group of five teenagers met them from around the corner.

"Yusuke Urameshi," the tallest boy sneered. He stood tall and bulky, with a chest puffed out with bravado. His four lackeys were sniggering behind him while cracking their knuckles. These boys were looking for a fight, and Kurama was filled with discomfort. He had no fear of them, and he had no fear for Yusuke, but why hadn't he felt their intent? How could he have missed it?

"We heard you've gone soft. You've lost half of your fighting grounds and haven't lifted a fist in months!" The leader looked over Kurama and noticed their hands and just how tightly the redhead was squeezing Yusuke's. Of course... it was irritation that caused the action, not that he'd know it. "A coward and a faggot!" The group laughed, and Shuichi realized he should be offended, but honestly, he was relieved they got his gender correct. "Don't worry, we won't split you up. We'll send you both to the hospital, maybe you can share a room!"

Unfortunately, Kurama had to release Yusuke's hand when a fist was sent his way. "We'll take out your little boy toy first!"

Shuichi absolutely refused to join in a street brawl, he did, however, smoothly dodge the first and second blows sent his way.

EDDE:
Lunch was great. His attention was almost fully on Kurama. And it was only 'almost' because the slight distraction of the intent he couldn't help but notice continually niggled at him. While it was something he could ignore pretty easily usually if he were actually trying, having become even more sensitive to these things than he'd ever been before the tournament made it really hard to shut off. But he didn't let it sour his mood even a little. It was what it was. Besides. It wasn't like this would be the first time he'd ever been wrong anyway.

Despite feeling it more clearly than he'd like, and the single shift of his eyes in the direction it came from that he offered only once during their meal, every other bit of his attention was on Shuichi. He loved the mindless chatting and almost pointless topics they prattled on about. And he didn't hesitate to take care of the check as soon as they'd gotten it; if only to get it out of the way so he could turn his focus back on his boyfriend as they finished their meal.

The kiss he received forced elation and heat to cover his face in droves. The shy ok he had to offer as he turned his vision of to the side was as adorable as it had been for each of those cheek kisses he'd gotten previously. "Like I said, no sweat." The warm answer was only faltered through a slight pout he couldn't help but offer toward his own reaction.

Surprise didn't hit Yusuke's features as he was called out. If anything, his stance even relaxed a little. Mostly because he was glad to be getting things over with sooner rather than later. He would have gotten really annoyed if these punks had followed them around all day. "Huh. I had to wonder if you'd all actually crawl out of your hole. But I guess I have been slacking lately, so..."

He wasn't expecting anything they had to say to annoy him though, not figuring anything would be impacting enough to ruffle his feathers. The foul mouthed comment on their sexuality didn't really bug him. Small-minded people and all. What did bug him was that those small minds decided his pretty other half was a weakling; or rather that they'd decided to go after him first because of that.

Chocolate eyes clouded over darkly as Shuichi was forced to pull away from him and dodge disgustingly slow blows. That look in his eyes alone had the leader's friends pulling back in hesitation which left him going after Shuichi alone. "Bastard." The word was spat sharply, and Yusuke was quick to place himself between the two.

Not because he didn't think Kurama could handle it, but really almost on principle and instinct alone. "Who's the coward?!" Clenched fingers did raise a fist, but the detective didn't even point it at the leader who'd accused him of being as much.

Instead, it held fast in place. And as the other male rounded off and dove at him through his own punch surprise was what hit Yusuke square in the face... Well, a fist did too but he barely felt that. The punch he received didn't phase him. The punch his fist unwittingly doled out through that idiot's movements alone however, did.

He hadn't moved, but the guy had thrown himself at him. And as the surprise lifted what followed was a forceful, exuberant laugh as their leader fell to the ground. "You just...!" He sucked in a heavy breath to continue through his laughter in taunt of the dude who'd knocked his own block off. "You just LITERALLY ran into my fist with your face!" Said fist uncoiled and both hands landed on his stomach as he practically doubled over in laughter.

The initial reaction from the grunts was horror. And two scurried over to help their boss get back on his feet. But the more Yusuke laughed the more offended they became. And really it didn't take long at all. He'd barely finished taunting and continuing that gleeful laughter before the two free men both lunged at him.

His laughter clipped off instantly. He wasn't over his offense after all. "Not enough for ya? How bout this?" He didn't form another fist. This time all he did was extend his arms, bend them at the elbows, and cross them in front of himself in what would normally be a defensive pose.

And the jerks fell for it easily.

Their stances drew into a mimic, and they threw themselves at him with comments that were just as foul spouting from their mouths. But not a moment later all the air in their lungs followed those comments.

Yusuke didn't move. And he let them hit him. He already knew. Running in to him headlong was like a kamikaze mission straight into a brick wall. It wasn't nearly as funny the second time. And he simply stood back straight again as they bounced off him like marbles.

Before he even said anything his hand drew down and sought out Shuichi's again. He already knew they were done. But that same dark look travelled right back into eyes that had offered so much warmth and kindness to the redhead previously. "Three down..."

The offer had the other two squealing in an instant. They gathered their dizzy boss and took off like bats straight outta Hell. The other two gasped for air as they crawled to their feet, stumbled, then hurried off after the others with sobs of 'wait for us' and 'don't just leave', respectively chasing their heels.

Yusuke's grasp on Shuichi's hand tightened as he glared them down through their retreat. It grounded him; helped him continue to hold himself back as he had in their insanely one sided 'brawl', and stopping him from chasing after them like he might feel the need to under outdated circumstances. It did nothing to soften his features as he watched them go however. It was harder than he'd thought it would be to let them go after what they'd done... Well, what they'd attempted to do anyway. That was just as bad in his book.

Fox:
They were weak. Nothing; and dodging was more than easy. But it came to a stop when Yusuke stepped between him and the angry teen. Then he was able to watch on with vague interest. Watching his boyfriend fight was invigorating, but this was hardly a fight. In fact, the group practically defeated themselves; running head on into a clenched fist or crumbling after an attempt to bowl Yusuke over. A hand was lifted to cover his mouth and hide the growing chuckles and keep them from becoming all out laughter.

Shuichi calmed himself by clearing his throat when his free hand was taken once more. He watched them run with a great deal of satisfaction and gripped his boyfriend's hand back just as tightly. "Come, we have quite a lot of shopping to do, don't we?" The fox gently nudged the detective away from Ocean Blue, then let the teen guide them to the market.

EDDE:
It was the squeeze that caught his attention. But Shuichi's calm voice was what brought Yusuke back to himself. The dark swirl in chocolate eyes lifted as they landed on emerald pools. Through a series of a couple blinks, he couldn't help but chuckle as he was nudged in the proper direction.

"We're gonna finish our date first, right?" The curious question had him taking the lead again and tugging gently in pulling away from the nudge. A soft smile had found its way to his face again and before long he stopped them in front of a department store.

He hadn't been to this particular one in a long time, but he wasn't about to take Shuichi to the girly shops Keiko liked to frequent. He landed that smile back on the foxy human once he'd made sure men's apparel was advertised in the window. "This looks right. Whaddaya think of this place?"

There was no way Yusuke could know how odd this might seem normally. He only had one example of any type of dating to go by though. And going on dates with Keiko tended to consist of eating out together followed by coming to places like this. Whether it was to help her pick outfits to wear or ended up just being toiled away in her trying things on.

And while it was insanely rare for her to join him in the arcade for any occasion-- not that the two of them had ever counted that as a dating activity-- these were pretty much the only dating things he knew about. Of course, there was always going to the movies, but he'd already picked one of those up and had it waiting at home. And he wanted to do all the date stuff he could think of rolled into one.

After all, he'd totally screwed up his attempt the night before. So why not make it up while he could?

Fox:
Shuichi looked up at the sign of the apparel store, then to the mannequin displays in the window sporting the latest in male fashion... Or at least he assumed so. He didn't much care for fashion, as the bright orange jacket would attest to. So when his eyes turned on Yusuke, they held a hint of confusion in an otherwise smooth demeanor. "Am I meant to model for you?" The question could have been sarcastic... but the dating habits of humans was a mystery to him. All he knew was the typical 'dinner and a movie' he'd heard about around school. For all he knew, buying clothes was typical. Though, it felt like it was something his mother would take him to do, not Yusuke.

Still... "Or do you plan to model for me?" That time it was said with a playful lilt in his tone. He could only imagine his delinquent boyfriend dressing up for him to put on a show.

EDDE:
A silly chuckle left his lips at the first question. But a flush covered his face at the second. "W'll it's a date, right?" The curious answer had him turning his face off in the opposite direction to hide the colour on his face, not that he did it enough to really hide.

That would be because he was looking over the mannequins thoughtfully. "I ain't ever 'modelled' anything before, or had it done either," he added a little shyly with the slightest bit of a fidget. "This is just the only thing I could really think of. I don't know a whole lot about dates other than what I do," he added almost cryptically.

He was sure Shuichi would catch his meaning. He'd only ever dated Keiko after all. But he didn't want to bring that up and ruin the mood as it sat. He'd been having his own issues with jealousy. He didn't want to put any on his boyfriend. "I could try something on too though, I guess." He didn't see why not. He hadn't done it with Keiko before.

Honestly, he didn't even really understand the point of this part of their dates. He just knew it was something they did. Folly was still heating his face. But he was slowly resolving himself. It wouldn't be such a bad thing to show off together for each other, right? He peeked at the redhead with that shy smile and squeezed his hand a little.

Maybe this activity was an odd one? Kurama didn't seem to know much about it. Was it weird? This was the first time he'd ever put much thought into it. "Or we could always just move on. If we pick up everything now and go back, I have a movie I picked out for us yesterday."

Although now for some reason he was starting to wonder of his choice might have been a weird one too. It was around this point that he decided he should maybe get a little more creative with their dates. Besides. Going and doing the same sort of things he did with Keiko seemed a lot more offensive than anything now that he was putting thought into it.

Fox:
He didn't show it, but the fox understood exactly what Yusuke meant by 'what I do.' The only other love interest that he knew about was Keiko, and he could tell that this was a regular part of his dates with her. Kurama knew he shouldn't be jealous, it was already established that they were boyfriends; and yet, he felt a tension running along his spine that set the small hairs on his body standing on end. He resolved himself then to trying on and possibly purchasing clothes, if only to show up the detective's previous date; but it was that shy fidget that made him believe he'd enjoy it.

"You pick something for me, and I will pick something for you. I have only ever seen you in fighting garb," with a few exceptions of course; but Yusuke was always in something loose and battle ready. The fox tugged his detective inside and offered a friendly nod towards the clerk that greeted them. "I will meet you by the dressing rooms."

EDDE:
This was an activity Keiko, and any other girl he was sure, did with friends, boyfriends, and really just about any other time. It was never anything he'd seen as very special. In fact, he was all but bored out of his mind most of the times they'd done this. It was just something she liked to do. And being that they were on dates, he'd figured doing something she'd liked had always been a better option than not. Especially considering that their dates tended to actually be time spent together in apology for his screw ups rather than actual dates.

So once again now that he was thinking about it, he felt kind of stupid for even having brought him here. The good news was that Kurama seemed into it despite his lapse in judgement. Besides. Keiko never really modelled things. She'd ask Yusuke to pick something out, close herself up behind the curtains, and then maybe buy it later if she ended up liking it... At least as far as he understood and saw.

Just as he'd been starting to settle down, he was left to pick something out for the redhead. It was easy to grab a dress or something when Keiko made such a request. He'd never had to put much thought into that. A huff and that same colour assaulted him all over again as he broke off to look over the clothes.

He was focusing though, as he went through the hanging clothes on a rack. So he wasn't paying attention to much of anything else. And he didn't think about the fact that Kurama had a great view of him over those racks, able to delight in that almost nervous, definitely disheveled look that could cover his face.

Mostly it was due to his thought process, although no one but the detective was privy to it. He didn't want to grab something that was uncomfortable for him, like what he'd had on earlier... Although he wouldn't mind sampling that at all. But he also didn't want to grab anything too similar to how he often saw the other teen in his school apparel.

It was difficult, and honestly, he probably took more time deciding than he should have. What he came up with was a pair of tight black jeans that would fit the same way those ones had earlier. But the shirt he chose was both somewhat popular in its look with tight fitted jeans, and far more comfortable than them.

It was an over-large, semi plaid button-up that had both a fine folded collar, and a breast pocket. More heat, that it just so happened had cleared a little by the time he picked it out, came rushing back as he made his way to meet with the redhead. The loose long shirt with tight jeans was quite up on the times in style terms. But he wasn't focused on that.

What he got for himself out of it, and what had him so embarrassed all over again, was that those pants would hug him in all the right places... And the shirt... Well, the biggest reason he'd chosen the button-down shirt was for the deliciously pointed memory he had of removing one quite similar to it from his body previously.

He hefted the clothing up and pointed it at Kurama. "Here." It was huffed, and he couldn't make eye contact now. Because he now has that scene crawling across his mind rather adamantly. And offering these clothes gave him more than a slight craving for a repeat scenario.

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
Shuichi only got so far as grabbing a pair of loose fitted shorts before his attention faltered. He'd grabbed a white tank top to compliment the black bottoms haphazardly. His attention had fallen on Yusuke instead. He was used to seeing the cocky fighter, the complete idiot hiding a brilliant mind, the cheeky bastard or the playful pervert. Watching the detective fumble around in a normal setting was... Endearing. He'd planned to gather at least a couple sets of clothes to mix and match, but he couldn't pull his eyes away. They were focused on the red cheeks, the awkward fidgets and careful choosing of clothes. So much so that he'd landed himself in front of the dressing rooms with nothing but those shorts and the tank top that probably wouldn't fit well anyway.

When Yusuke met him there it was Kurama's turn to fidget with the clothes in his hands. "Right," he agreed, taking the offered clothes and replacing them with his own finds. "I will return shortly," he assured before pulling back the curtain and stepping into the small changing room. The curtain was closed, and Shuichi made careful work of disrobing to avoid messing up his hair.

While the redhead dressed, the store clerk that had greeted them at the door scooted a little closer, keeping her eyes on Yusuke as if awaiting him to stuff something into his pocket.

The dark jeans hugged him tightly, but not enough to be considered too small. Shuichi took the time to unbutton and rebutton the shirt before tucking it in. He tugged at the collar and rolled the sleeves into place on his wrists before stepping back out to await his boyfriend's approval.

EDDE:
Yusuke was a little over excited. Once Kurama disappeared behind the curtains he was, in fact, excited enough about seeing him in his pick to forget he had his own in his hands. At least for a minute.

He only remembered when he noticed the woman staring him down. It was something he was used to. Instead of moving into the dressing area he offered her a far too cocky smirk. "If I drop trow right here, will it make you stare less or more?" The question was played out through a cheeky snigger.

And it was meant to throw her off. So when all he got back for it was a flirtatious giggle it surprised him and deflated that cocky balloon of his. Heat hit his face even harder as he pouted over his failure. But the curtain was moving again so his attention shifted.

What he looked at didn't help the flush. A soft noise bubbled out the rest of the air in his chest. He wasn't exactly pleased that it sounded as appreciative as it did, but he wasn't gonna correct it. "That looks good on you," he offered almost smoothly.

And it did just like he'd thought, those pants hugged him just right. And the high collared shirt hid that delectable throat of his just enough to be a drawing tease. Again, he forgot about his own clothes as he drank in the sight the redhead had to offer him.

Fox:
He liked that noise; and the look he was given wasn't so bad either. The fox was always proper in his posture, but Yusuke's attention had him standing a little taller. His vanity was pleasingly stroked, and the fox lifted a hand to unbutton the one around his neck, allowing a bit of skin to show. Now, the fox wasn't exactly striking a pose, but his hips did cant just a little and his chin lifted to both expose his throat and look down on his boyfriend with heated eyes. "As much as I would like to watch you 'drop trow' as you put it, I am a bit possessive. I don't believe I want anyone else witnessing such a spectacle." The woman watching them was sent a placating smile before he returned his attention to his boyfriend.

A slim, red eyebrow arched up as he looked his date over. "Do you plan to change? Or must I strike a pose first?" The tease was light and playful. As strange as this scenario may feel, he was actually having a bit of fun. If only because he was in such good company.

EDDE:
There might not be much of a change in the movement, but it was more than enough. It drew heat into chocolate eyes. Was he doing that on purpose? Did it matter? Along with that heat his lips drew into a thin line that might have looked nervous while the heat on his cheeks dissipated. He wasn't nervous. But he did have to put way too much effort into stopping himself from making a very wanting move to mount the redhead right then and there.

His words helped, popping the lusty bubble just enough to allow the detective higher thought. So with a cheeky chuckle he was able to relax a little. But now that lady looked like she was on cloud nine all of a sudden with the two teens that practically represented day and night catching her attention. Since his bubble had been popped, he couldn't help but want to pop hers. But he didn't have much ammo to do that right now. His mind was buzzing far too much with the sight of the redhead. Besides. It was probably just a want for a somewhat possessive feeling of his own for the appreciative look she was giving his fox at the moment.

He disappeared behind the curtain himself, using all the self-control he could muster not to drag the redhead with him in order to ravish him in the slight privacy it had to offer. He hadn't checked what was in his hands before he'd gone in there. And another chuckle escaped him as he wiggled free of his clothes to change. "Hey, you know," the thought hit him suddenly for really no reason at all that he could think of. "If you stay over again we could always go out again tonight. There's tons of fun stuff to do at night too."

The fact that it was once again a school night didn't cross his mind. Why would it? Although... "There'd be less kids around too." Then again it wasn't just kids coming after him he had to worry about. "I dunno what other date stuff there is to do, but fun stuff's all over." Maybe some of those things were date things. Who knew?

At some point his words had been slightly muffled as he attempted to get that tank top over his head and shoulders. It was too tight to want to keep up though, so he ended up coming out in the loose shorts and his normal shirt.

"Know what else?" As he did, he bent down a little and plucked up the loose material between his fingers and gave them a little fan with that silly smile of his. "These are pretty breezy." He'd never been accused of having the bit of tact he'd shown him previously. "It's pretty nice," he chuckled out.

Fox:
Shuichi waited with his hands cupping his elbows and his right leg bent at the knee to rest the ball of his foot on the floor. "We cannot stay out too late," the fox pointed out calmly. "My trek to school will be longer than usual. I will need to wake quite early, perhaps before the sun rises." He would not be late for school. He wouldn't give his mother any reason to restrict his visits to the Urameshi household. "However, traversing the area sounds nice." The fox chuckled warmly, the sound deep yet light. "I am beginning to believe that 'date stuff' is simply what we enjoy together."

He noticed the shift in the woman's appearance at the mention of dating. As much as he had come to love the human world, the inhabitants could be quite small minded. Homosexual attraction was seen as strange, wrong, disgusting, even downright evil... That was alright, they could think whatever they wanted to. Mother didn't seem bothered by it, and Yusuke wasn't one to care about what others thought of him. So it was okay. With the detective at his side, the world could just go fuck itself... It was a thought that had Shuichi realizing just how much his boyfriend's ideals were rubbing off on him; and that was okay too.

That chuckle grew louder when the teen revealed himself and played with the shorts. Yusuke had very nice legs; perfectly toned and firm. Shuichi took the time to appreciate the sight and contemplate what was hidden under the loose, 'breezy' fabric. "You should wear shorts more often, Yusuke," the fox purred. His words were meant to be conversational, but the fox's mind had traveled into lusty places. "They suit you quite well."

EDDE:
He noticed the change; in both of them really. And killing two birds with one stone couldn't have been easier at the moment. He stood again, letting that heat from before swirl back into those chocolate eyes. "Ditto," he offered. Of course, it was pointed toward the fox's current outfit rather than shorts.

That wasn't all he had to offer. "But now I gotta ask what's better." Stones and all, he slid up to the redhead and pressed himself closer as he ran his hands up the hem around those buttons and took a supportive grasp that fiddled with that collar of his as that heated stare travelled up with his hands. It landed on his throat for a moment before passing up fidgeting fingers and turning heat swirled chocolate up into emerald gems. "With shorts or without?"

Fox:
The moment those melting chocolate eyes landed on him, Kurama felt his heart skip a beat before rapidly pumping in his chest. A breath was sucked in, and his chest pushed into the hands running up the buttons, then was let out in a heavy puff when they reached the collar. Their eyes met and the fox felt a little weak in the knees. When had Yusuke gotten so good at seduction? His answer started with a tiny mew that he forced away with a clearing of his throat. He couldn't simply give in, where would be the fun in that?

Shuichi placed his hands on Yusuke's sides, his fingers tickling over his ribs as they traveled down to grip the teen's hips and tug him closer. The woman acting as their audience was forgotten, or at least ignored, as the fox leaned down enough for their noses to touch and the breaths to mingle. "Without," he answered in a low growl. A hot breath was released, and he added, "We should pay for our clothes, and complete your mother's shopping. Quickly, if possible." So they could return home and...

When did he become so obsessed? His usually sharp mind was a blur, and all he could focus on was the teen in his arms. He was going mad.

EDDE:
Kurama might not be willing to give in so easy. Yusuke on the other hand had no qualms over it. He melted just enough to matter and the seductive look he hadn't noticed he'd placed on his own face drifted away. But what replaced it was just as pleasing; also just as eager. "Kay."

He pulled back quickly in tugging Kurama toward the curtain. Through the movement of following through and pushing him right on past, what he offered was a quick peck to plush lips. But he didn't linger long enough to allow one to be given back. The smirk on his face said that it was purposeful. So was the fact that he planted his feet in order not to follow him in. That wasn't a great idea. Well, it was. But it wasn't.

When he turned his attention back toward the woman, he didn't see her there. Chocolate eyes roamed and he couldn't help but let out a heavy laugh he did his best to keep quiet when they found her. Because she'd retreated to her register. And with heavy breath and a hand over her heart, it was more than obvious that despite her distaste previously, they'd managed to overstimulate her poor tiny mind in a way that was embarrassing her to her core when they'd forgotten she was around.

Fox:
He was so lost... Shuichi took the kiss and tried so desperately to return it; to drag Yusuke into the dressing room with him and just... The curtain closed and Kurama blinked several times while he tried to collect himself. His breath was heavy, his face was flushed, and he had just been considering fornication inside of a public dressing room. There wasn't even a door! Kurama shook his head and took a moment to steady his breath before setting about the task of unbuttoning his new shirt.

When the fox emerged again in his original clothing, he'd recollected himself. Once more he was aware of his surroundings, and once more his mind was clear of the heavy fog Yusuke managed to put him in. It was unacceptable. Because of that fog he hadn't noticed the attempted ambush until it was 'too late,' and it was painfully uncomfortable. Now, Kurama held himself differently, but only slightly. He looked less like a fawning teen and more like the picture of Shuichi Minamino, with a calculating fox hidden just beneath the surface.

The redhead held the folded clothes in his right arm. "You paid for lunch. Allow me to buy your clothes, if you like them," he offered kindly.

EDDE:
Yusuke had gotten himself distracted. How could he not? It wasn't every day he saw something like that. So he was focused on whatever that woman was trying to get over; just cause it was blatant didn't mean the full cause was. When Kurama spoke, he jumped a little.

Upon taking in his reverted (in more ways than one) appearance, a smirk crawled across his face. "Feeling better then?" The tease was pointed. And he was quick to skirt past him to change. Just cause he was distracted didn't mean he wasn't still antsy.

"I like 'em," he offered as he changed. "But I don't think that's really the point. I kinda gotta get 'em now." He emerged again, still smirking. "Seeing as you like 'em so much."

He got it now; what made this activity appealing. He'd never seen it with Keiko. Then again, she'd never modelled the clothes for him. Still, he was feeling like he'd still enjoy it more with the redhead even if she had.

Once again hands were clasped. But by the time they got over to the register that lady was glaring at them again. She didn't look much older than them, but people were the way they were.......

That didn't mean he had to like it.

As they reached the counter Yusuke leaned in a bit, offering that sometimes intimidating pout of his as he moved closer. "Hey." It wasn't to intimidate per say, but it did change her look to a nervous one.

He stood back up. "Ok.. Know what, that's fine," he started. It might have seemed awkward if it weren't obvious he was going to continue with his explanation toward whatever he thought she was thinking.

His fingers of one hand slid back up the redhead's chest while the other hand slid with pointed contact around and wrapped its arm possessively around his waist. The original drifting hand landed against Kurama's chest in the perfect height to lean his cheek against the back of it as he offered her a telling look. It was sultry. And it was meant for the redhead despite being pointed on her direction. "You can go ahead look at him all you want. Cause I'm the one who gets to take him home."

The woman looked like she was going to faint even as she grabbed for Kurama's change. She shoved it at him and spat out in a panicked voice "Get the Hell out!" Her face was so flush she looked like she was glowing. And something told him not all of that anger was pointed at them.

His chuckle was exuberant as he hurriedly tugged Kurama along. "Yea yea. Talk about guest service." That chuckle was also almost evil in its deviousness.

Oh Hell yeah! This could get fun. If nothing else, fucking with absolute ass hats that couldn't seem to handle their closeness could become a seriously entertaining pass time.

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
The tease was met with a hum and that innocent expression he pulled off so well; and Shuichi pondered as Yusuke went in to change. How lost had he been? How much had he missed? He thought back briefly to their moment behind the bleachers and realized that, if Yusuke hadn't mentioned them, he probably wouldn't have even noticed his classmates; and he hadn't noticed Yusuke's mother and her friends arriving home last night either. He may have been in the throes of pleasure, but only a few decades ago that wouldn't have mattered at all.

A chuckle left his lips, and he held out his hand for the shorts. "Well, then I suppose I should thank you. They do make for quite the view." Once they reached the counter the fox placed the clothes down and pulled his wallet from his pocket. He had to release Yusuke's hand to fish out the needed cash and handed it to her without a word towards the glare. He did, however, jump a little when he was suddenly enveloped by a strong arm and his boyfriend pressed against his chest. His heart rate was picking up again and he was sure the detective could feel it. "Yusuke!" The fox scolded, color burning his cheeks as they were very rudely forced out of the store. He only just had time to pocket his wallet and change, as well as grab the bag holding their purchases.

"That was completely uncalled for," the fox complained, the harshness dampened by the flush on his cheeks and the hand once more holding his partner's.

EDDE:
He heard the scolding, but it hadn't stopped his gleeful cackling. Still, he allowed their retreat to stop once outside the door. "Sure it was," he told him gleefully. Although he paused. "I mean no it wasn't." Apparently he agreed though. Oops.

"Anyway she was totally staring at you." Glaring at them. Tomato, tomato. "She totally deserved it."

He turned his cheery smile forward and started them off again. "You wanted to hurry, remember?"

Change of subject was established, but he was great at digging himself deeper. "C'mon. You can't tell me you didn't like it. Didja see her face?" Well, he could. But Yusuke doubted it. Especially with that cute look on his face.

Hey, that was a great point. "Plus, it got me a great look at one of those cute faces of yours," he chirped happily. The look he turned on him wasn't as cheery though. It was devious again; a smirk stretching his lips once more as he looked over that colour.

It only softened after he'd gotten a good eye full. And once again it was as cheery as ever. But it was also warm. "I like the faces you make," he offered candidly. While Kurama might not have made comment on his own liking of Yusuke's, the raven-haired boy didn't think twice about sharing as much with him.

He also had no problem telling him why. "It's neat," he chuckled out smoothly. "Cause I don't usually get to see that kinda look from you." It accompanied a thoughtful hum and a nod before he stopped before one of the many mom&pop stores they'd be going to today. "Yep. It's new. And really it's kinda exciting in a weird way too." Another nod and he tugged him inside. "Mn. That'd be why I like it. Yep." There might be other reasons, but he liked those ones.

There was a bit of a babble going on there as he continued. But that could have been because he was already looking over shelves after waving to the person behind the counter. They didn't seem as skeptical of him as the woman had.

Some places he frequented actually appreciated his particular brand of attitude. And of course, having loyal customers with all the building up that had gone on around the area didn't hurt. The wave he'd given was toward the greeting by name he got from one of the usual workers. He came to these places often enough.

Fox:
"The expressions I make are not cute," he argued smoothly, trying and failing to quell the heat in his cheeks. He relaxed a little as Yusuke continued, because he felt the same way. They were both seeing each other outside of life and death battles, and they were so different. That just had him liking the detective even more, and he delighted in hearing Yusuke felt the same. Kurama followed along and let his boyfriend rant, only chiming in when he was finished. "I agree. Seeing each other in this new scenery is... invigorating," he admitted.

"Should I help you find anything?" He questioned, though doubted it. Yusuke seemed to know this place very well, while he was completely out of place.

EDDE:
He grew thoughtful toward the expression then nodded again. It was.

There wasn't a list given to them physically, but Yusuke knew it well. He listed the few things they needed from the store they were in. It gave Kurama something to do in looking for them while he grabbed the rest instead of having to follow him around like a lost puppy at least. And when he was done grabbing his own things, he helped by pointing out where the things he had left would be. It ended with each of them carrying a small bag to their next destination.

The greeting at the first shop they'd gotten was nothing less than warm. And Yusuke introduced Kurama to the employees he knew well. The second shop they stopped in at was a different story; at first at least.

The owner must have seen them coming and Yusuke wasn't paying attention. He was at the end of telling the redhead a short story of one of his first times in the other store; the embarrassing things he'd had to grab and how awkward it would have been if the staff hadn't been so warm. So when the fly swatter the man had armed himself with came at him, he wasn't able to avoid the sharp thwap to his face. "I told you to keep out of here you troublemaker!"

The hit stopped him more than the holler did. "OW!" His own was louder but he had to pause for the words. "Also, gross. Uh?... When the Hell did that happen?" He didn't remember anything like that. And when the man's angry look turned far too gleeful, and he gave off a cheeky chuckle it was Yusuke's turn to bubble up.

"That ain't funny! You got no idea how much I get that!" His bubble was obviously fuller. Especially as the older woman stocking near the back broke into heavy giggles.

"Of course I do. That was the point." He thwapped him again over the head before turning his attention to Kurama. "Don't be rude. Introduce me to your friend, Yusuke." He chuckled as the woman from the back called 'me too' cheerily.

"Who's rude?" He shook his head and settled into a smile. "This is Shuichi. And this jack ass is Koryu. That's his wife, Meryl." Again, he shook his head and moved further into the store as they exchanged pleasantries, and he grumbled between looking for items. "Crazy old man... Probably go broke if I stopped coming here... Damned... Mph..."

As they went through the stores Yusuke was greeted either pleasantly or through mean teases. All of which he'd earned himself over the years, to be perfectly honest. It seemed just about everyone was interested in his friend. And more than a few of the younger females working in various stores attempted to flirt with them both; to which Yusuke seemed pretty deaf to when they landed on him, and often pouted toward when landed on Shuichi.

All in all, despite the large load they ended up with, the shopping trip really didn't take too long at all. Dead spaces walking between stores were filled with silly stories and more exchanges of conversation that might usually be dull to him. But he was having a great time. And it showed the entire time. After two hours, give or take a few minutes, he announced they had checked off all the items on their list and could head home. And excitement filled his features in a giddy way as he realised all over again that meant they'd be all alone once again.

Fox:
Shuichi helped in any way he could, searching out the items he was tasked with despite knowing it was simply busy work to keep his hands full. He appreciated the notion, as following Yusuke around without direction sounded rather boring. No matter how much he enjoyed watching him. He greeted everyone he was introduced to with kindness, returning their warm gestures with short bows and polite 'thank you's.

They finished up at the first store fairly quickly, and Kurama followed him to the next while carrying a bag of groceries. When they walked in, he expected to be greeted in much the same way as the last. After all, it seemed Yusuke frequented these establishments. That expectation and the bag in his hand slowed his reaction time. The flyswatter was swung, and Shuichi reached out to stop it from slapping his boyfriend in the face, but to no avail. Though it seemed it hadn't been done in malice. The detective had very strange relationships, most of which seemed to center around violence in some manner. Though, thinking on his friendship with Kuwabara that wasn't all that surprising. "A pleasure to meet you both," the fox offered with a dip of his head.

Again, he did what he could to help, and listened intently to Yusuke's stories. He noticed the flirtation and reacted to it the same way as he always did; with a calm coolness that had the girls leaving him be, but giggling and blushing madly as they did. He even found ways to interject when the attention was shifted to his oblivious boyfriend. The time flew by despite the menial task set about them; Yusuke was enjoying himself, and in return Kurama did as well. It only felt like minutes had passed when they were finished and carrying a great deal of merchandise back towards Yusuke's home. Including an extra toothbrush and tube of toothpaste to leave at the apartment.

"I have never been on a date before," the fox admitted, unfortunately unable to take Yusuke's hand in his once more. "But my first has been..." he looked away, a shy expression softening his features. "Quite spectacular. Thank you, Yusuke."

EDDE:
"I have." He was as tactless as ever; then again maybe not. "But this is the best one, hands down." He really liked the look that covered his fox's face when he said that. It was both adorable and endearing; one of those looks he didn't get to see usually. That thoughtful bubble encompassed him once again. "Hmm... Was shopping part of the date?" It might as well have been. It sure hadn't been a chore. Not this time, anyway. So, it didn't really matter if it was or wasn't.

It was just that if it was, the task they'd been so eager to get to would be a continuation. Not that it would be starting over if it wasn't. Mostly he was just curious if the redhead might count it as part of it. He'd said whatever they enjoyed doing after all.

Soon they were trekking up the steps to his apartment and he was unlocking the door awkwardly. He sucked at remembering to lock it. But his mom sure didn't. It was lucky he'd grabbed the key mindlessly. And he was glad. He didn't feel like scaling the building to somehow find a way in. And the landlord hated him for whatever reason.

After toeing off his shoes he led them straight to the kitchen. Seeing the disarray it was still in reminded him of the many tasks still at hand. Damn, it was gonna take forever.

But maybe...

Bags were dropped more carefully than haphazardly but somewhat unceremoniously. And he turned to the redhead, catching him with his hands still full. It gave him an advantage. So he didn't waste it. "I had a thought," he informed him through that small growl of a noise that tended to be saved for frustration. It was unclear whether he was already frustrated or had feeling he might become so quite soon. Either way he expected his pause to be waited on; if only for the distraction he now offered in lieu of words.

Kurama was pulled forward by the waistband of his pants from under his shirt and Yusuke pressed himself closer in the same instant. Chocolate eyes once again roamed the teen's body in tow of his hands. They landed below the belt as he pulled him close and followed the motion of tickling fingers tracing around the waistline and over his hips before pulling back to the front of his boyfriend's body and trailing upward.

His hands parted when they neared his shoulders, pushing the jacket from them and down his arms a little. "About what we should do next," he continued after the long moment that movement took. The addition was placed here to keep his attention as well as in an attempt not to be interrupted by any argument Shuichi might come up with in the silence that made the heavier press of breath in his own lungs far too obvious.

Still his eyes followed their progress; until they landed in a coiling grasp over his shoulders and his index fingers gave the slightest touch of a pet over that slender throat. It was that point in which the look that had grown increasingly lusty over its progress turned up to shoot their heat into forest eyes. And he leaned in just a little more; teasing a kiss despite the space the redhead's height compared to his left between them.

When his mouth was less busy than his hands it slid lips that were far more eager than he even seemed through the action into a smirk. "Hmm~" The thoughtful, near groaning hum was elongated as he turned back to looking over his body in turning the attention of his hands into a pleasurable Pet down and over his abdomen.

"But now I'm thinking it depends," he purred out heatedly as they found their place again; one kneading at his hip while the other rested just about over his heart. "On if you still want me to 'sit on it'." The focus in his eyes as he looked up at him again was as close to animalistic in their restriction as one could get. "I'm kinda on the fence though."

Not that he was willing to cause the redhead undue stress if it would be too much for him to reverse that role all over again; which honestly, he figured it might, considering their earlier conversations. But that didn't stop the decidedly predatory look he was giving him from screaming an absolute want to devour him.

Fox:
"I believe that it was," he answered "I enjoyed my time with you, so I do not see a reason to reject the notion."

He watched on in amusement as Yusuke fumbled with his key, then toed off his shoes once inside. They were nudged into place beside Yusuke's before he made his way to the kitchen. Only to be caught in a trap. A very delicious trap. Shuichi stepped forward with the tug on his pants and released a warm breath as excitement rolled through him. The roaming hands had his heartbeat picking up again, he'd lost count of how many times Yusuke had done that to him today.

Shuichi shivered visibly as those hands brushed up his chest, and he felt his nipples harden in hopes of a touch. The jacket was pushed down over his shoulders and Yusuke was looking up at him with heated eyes. His breath came stuttered and warmth bloomed over his face. When did this happen? When did Yusuke become the seducer? Where did that fumbling, virgin teen run off to? Kurama felt his fingers start to slip on the handles of the bags, and he clenched his hands into fists to keep the contents from spilling all over the ground.

It was happening again... That fog was hazing over his mind again, narrowing his field of thought to just one person. The world around him meant nothing, in fact there was nothing; but the hands on his body and the teen looking up at him.

It was terrifying.

"Actually, Yusuke," the fox stated smoothly while stepping back and out of that tortuously pleasing touch. "I believe you have quite a bit of schoolwork to get done. Do you not?" He placed the bags down beside the others. "And we really should clean up this kitchen, as well as put away the groceries." Out of Yusuke's hold, the fox seemed perfectly fine. He even rolled his shoulders to replace the jacket.

EDDE:
The detective was incredibly pleased with the little shivers and felt reactions. Feeling Shuichi's heart pick up pace under his hand had his own skipping a couple beats. He'd reacted so well to this before too. It was just too perfect. And he didn't hide the fact that he was loving it.

But then that brat went and changed gears on him again. Why was he so good at that? How the Hell did he do it?

The pout that replaced his sultry look was adorable; if a little hurt. "Noooo," he whined heavily in tone that gave away his age far too well. "I don't wannaaaaa." Not yet anyway.

Kurama had stepped back and adjusted himself. It had Yusuke stepping forward and capturing his hips again. Gone was the seductive purr and hot stare. What replaced them was that more recognizable pathetic look that turned pleading eyes up on him. "Not yet, Shuichi," he requested in a small tone. "Can't we play first?" It wasn't fair.

"You were just as ready as I was. How come you can pull away from me like that?" It really wasn't fair.

Fox:
This was easier to handle, yet no less enjoyable. Yusuke's pouting was nothing short of cute, and the hold on his hips now felt fun instead of over stimulating. He could breath, he could see, he could think. The fox chuckled under his breath. "Because I have self-control. It is a skill you severely lack." The teasing purr was probably a bit cruel, but Kurama decided to rest his hands on Yusuke's sides to gently pet him in apology. He was adamant about helping Yusuke with his work, but the thought of playing before hand was painfully tempting. His thoughts drifted to the night before and the mind-blowing pleasure they'd experienced together. It was so hard to say no...

"What if we mix work and play?" Shuichi offered with a devious purr. A thought had come to that 'big brain of his,' and it was clear in the way his eyes narrowed. A hungry fox playing with its food. "Fetch your schoolwork and bring it to the kitchen table, then I will tell you the rules of the game." He nuzzled in for a quick kiss before pulling away from his boyfriend all over again. "And as for 'sitting on it,' we will just have to wait and see." His spirit was more than willing, but he wasn't so sure his body was up to the task. The only way to find out was through a little experimenting.

EDDE:
His pout didn't falter as he was teased cruelly; probably even deepening a little. "Do not." It was mumbled. Because he knew he couldn't honestly argue it. But he still wanted to deny it. The change in hold helped to quell it a little at least.

And it was wiped from his face at the suggestion in order to be replaced with something akin to confusion. How the Hell could they mix them? Doing schoolwork while having sex didn't sound appealing in the least. He had enough trouble focusing on it as it was. Seriously; he was horrible with schoolwork.

Puffing up again, the detective attempted to hide a newly forming curiosity behind his pout. But it didn't take him long to realize which was winning out. He huffed a sigh in defeat and looked down at all the bags.

"Well, it's all piled up on my desk. Why don't you grab that, and I'll start putting stuff away instead?" The redhead didn't know each of the item's designated places after all. "That way you can pick the subject."

He smiled lightly as he explained the last part quickly. "I don't wanna do any of it. Picking one would take me too long. Plus some of this stuff has to get put away right away." The other stuff could wait.

This time when he leaned in a slow-moving tongue travelled over his bottom lip. It spoke clearly of his want of those lips being pressed against his own in lieu of talking. But he did that anyway too. "So can I at least get a real kiss first?" He couldn't help but think it'd be real nice to get some of that attention without schoolwork placed into the mix before they had to get to that.

 

[EDDE]

Fox:
"Alright," the fox agreed with a nod of his head. He was about to turn and make his way to Yusuke's room when he was paused by his boyfriend leaning in. The laving tongue made him shiver all over again. It would be so easy to fall into it, to lose himself in a kiss that would lead to so much more; but, they had to get to work, and he was sure the detective would enjoy what he had planned. Still... He couldn't deny that cute face of everything. "Just one," the fox relented, tilting his head slightly to the side and pressing their lips together warmly.

Shuichi sighed and let his eyes flutter shut. He even worked his tongue passed the teen's lips to play with his. The slick muscles danced for several long moments before Kurama pulled away. "I will return shortly," he promised before pulling away before he was dragged into something more.

After walking down the hall, he slipped into Yusuke's room... How had he missed that? Sitting on his boyfriend's desk was a mound of packets and folders. This couldn't possibly be a week's workload, this had to be at least a month! "I suppose I should have expected as much," he murmured to himself before looking through the large amount of work. Thankfully, Keiko had written down the due dates on each one. He picked up the group most overdue and flipped through it. He couldn't possibly expect to get through everything in one day... so he took out a math paper as well as an essay prompt, then grabbed a pencil, an eraser, and a notebook before returning to the kitchen.

"You have quite a lot to get done, but we can work on the rest at a later date. I believe this will be enough for now." He didn't want to overwhelm the poor teen; it wouldn't go well. Shuichi cleared off an area at the table and placed everything down. "Try not to fret, Yusuke. I will do what I can to make this enjoyable for you."

EDDE:
He agreed and the space between them was closed. Giddy butterflies assaulted his stomach. Should he really be getting so excited over the just this? Their lips sealed firmly and made it not matter in the least. And a happy hum of a noise travelled between them through a breath from his nose.

Chocolate eyes lidded but didn't close at first. Because he noticed, possibly for the first time but maybe not, that he adored the way the redhead closed his eyes when they kissed. Not only that though. Even as close as they were he could clearly see a shift in him that showed how relaxed he fell into this attention.

His hands lifted on their own, one landing on Shuichi's shoulder and taking a needed grasp to ground himself, and the other finding its new favourite place behind the base of his skull under hair still held up almost flawlessly.

Another noise left him that was similar but even more appreciative as that devious tongue moved to play against him. It was then that his own eyes fluttered shut and all the tensity in his body seemed to be pulled away almost forcefully through those suckling lips. And he was happy to play back against that invading tongue.

It had only taken a moment; Yusuke was utterly floored and fell into an intense pool of giddy feelings and focused tongues-manship. It wasn't long at all before that appreciative noise from before bubbled from him as a moan instead. Unfortunately, the kiss was broken soon after. And while the soft call of his boyfriend's human name was slowed to escape between them because of it, those happy noises he'd been giving off flicked like a switch into a heavy, disappointed whine. He didn't want him to go yet; didn't want them to stop there. Not with the swirl of lust threatening to tighten his pants in all the right areas already.

Still, he uncoiled his grasp and allowed him to pull away despite his voiced but nonverbal displeasure with it. Because of how heavily he'd gotten focused on the attention that was lavished upon him it took him a few moments before he could collect himself and set about going through bags and putting away fridge and freezer stuff.

He was almost done when his foxy human returned with a much smaller stack of work than he'd expected. After all, he'd heard from Kuwabara during the tournament that the other teen could be downright cruel in his attempts to help one better themselves. In fact, he was pretty sure the terms 'slave driver' and 'literally almost killed me' were used more than once in that conversation. It hadn't intimidated Yusuke after what he'd gone through with Genkai; but it had caused him to form a specific expectation out of it.

So yeah, he was more than a little surprised the redhead hadn't brought out like half the pile and insist. And he couldn't help but wonder why that was; especially in curiosity over whether it was because he was anywhere near as antsy to get on to a more intimate setting as he was.

Already feeling pretty elated that there wasn't much there, the detective didn't do anything but give a nod until he'd finished putting all of the cold supplies in their proper places. They could see each other clearly through the breakfast nook after all. When he came around the corner from the kitchen however, he was quick to slide the redhead into his hold once more and take a firm grasp of his hips.

Through a heavily heated smirk he made a comment and asked a question as well. Both of which were relevant. "I'm glad... What didja pick? And when do I get to find out how we can do both those things at the same time?" Okay, so it was two questions, but it was all still relevant; even as he leaned forward again in attempt of stealing another kiss before he'd even given him the chance to answer.

Fox:
He should really pull away, but when Yusuke grasped his hips again Kurama could do nothing but mold himself into the embrace. The detective just felt too good to turn away. In fact, the fox lifted his arms and rested them on the other's shoulders, his wrists crossing behind his back. "Just a math sheet and an essay prompt," he answered before pausing to enjoy the hold, then he chuckled at the second question. "Think of it as... Positive reinforcement. Once I am sure you understand the work, I will reward you for your continuance of it."

Shuichi took another long moment to bask in the attention before pulling away again and motioning to the chair. "Sit. Show me how you would complete the first equation." Once Yusuke was seated, the fox took place behind him and gently held his shoulders as he watched.

He'd assumed the teen would be a bit rusty, but he wasn't quite prepared for how terrible Yusuke was at math. Still, he hid the internal cringe and instead leaned over his boyfriend to point out the mistakes and tell him how to fix them. It took a bit of time, but when he felt Yusuke had caught on, he lightly kissed his neck. "Good, now try the next one on your own. Get it correct, and you will have your reward," he purred, nuzzling into the crook with a delighted hum.

EDDE:
It really didn't seem like a whole lot. Although the essay might be. He wanted to check on what that was when he was sat down. But Kurama seemed to want to put him straight to work. And really how could he deny that with his curiosity level rising by the moment?

The look of it quickly changed, though; from curiosity to confusion. He did at least try on his own first. But he was nowhere near understanding it. Still, he wanted this reward, whatever it was. And it gave him the incentive he needed not to give in to his frustration too easily. Although there was a huff that had him nearly setting down that pencil after he'd completed that first question.

He already knew it was wrong. But instead of just pointing that out and sending him on his way to gloat about the rest of the assignment in misery a comforting grip lie on his shoulder and Shuichi began explaining it in much simpler terms than he'd ever expect. Comments on his breath went from puffing out 'this is stupid' and things of the like to questions that slowly seemed to be getting closer to the page he should be on.

When he only made one error in the last question that Shuichi pointed out, a simple mistake in carrying a number over, he was already at least ten times more confident than when he'd started. Although he faltered a bit as he was given the news about the next one. Having something so tantalizing at stake put tension into his features and had him staring down at the paper much harder.

"Okay. So, what if get it wrong?" Puppy brown eyes turned off the sheet and he shifted in the chair to look back at his redhead. "Is that where the negative reinforcement comes in?" It was only a half tease; that crooked smile of his pulled his lips out to hide that adorable puppy dog look of his.

But without seeming to need an answer, or maybe not wanting to hear it after asking, he turned his attention back down on the paper. No need to get distracted now.

He took the problem slower this time and worked it out meticulously; even pausing to make sure he was on the right track and rechecking his work for each step as he went. It was tedious and somewhat time consuming. But once he'd finished it those same eyes lifted up on the redhead as he set down his pencil.

"So did I get it right?" No way would he have put such a vested interest into the boring, far too bothersome work if he didn't have something better than a grade point on the line. He really did hate the work. Most of the time he didn't see the point in it. The rest of it was purely frustration and a complete lack of understanding that made it nearly impossible to do anyway.

Hell, he never thought he'd be hopeful about how well he'd done on schoolwork of all things either. But here he was, sitting in front of a math assignment and peeking a look up at the foxy human that probably said he was more hopeful than ever.

Fox:
The fox was kind and patient. While Yusuke grew leaps and bounds through insults and violence, it seemed his academic skills needed a more compassionate touch. Every time the teen did something correct, Shuichi praised him for it, and every mistake was met with a gentle correction followed by clear instructions on how to fix it.

"If you get it wrong, then I will teach you how to do it correctly and you will try again on the next equation," he answered simply, even if his 'student' had already turned away to work. He watched on in silence, letting Yusuke figure things out on his own and at his own pace. If he needed 15 minutes to finish one equation, then he would have 15 minutes. Kurama was a patient man, and it seemed the delinquent teen needed that patience. It paid off. Pride gleamed in those bright green eyes as he looked down into puppy brown. "You did. You learn quickly, Yusuke."

Shuichi's hand left his boyfriend's shoulder and the fox moved around to be more visible, then shrugged off his jacket. The bright orange covering was hung on a chair before he pulled himself up to sit on the table beside Yusuke's school work. He dragged his finger across several math problems before tapping on one. "My shirt," he started, then dragged over several more. "My pants," then over several more until he came to the end of the paper. "My boxers." Then, with a devious gleam in his eyes he tapped he essay prompt. "And once we start this, something quite special."

EDDE:
Elation over the praise was as exuberant as just about everything else about him. The gentle touches had helped him to relax a little, and had most likely allowed him to do so well. "Cool."

It was. And if he were being honest with himself, it wasn't just the praise that affected him. That 'done good' look of his that left even a person with the least sense of imagination able to see a rapidly wagging tail accompany it was alight on his face.

Yusuke watched his finger go along that paper; after getting a good eye full of him removing that jacket of course. It was unfortunate that he couldn't linger though. Because he had to pay attention if he wanted to win. And 'win certainly was the word.

He poked the pencil at each of those questions. "This one, this one, and the last one? Okay." The question was just as pointed as his agreement to not doing 'that behind the bleachers' again. Because he started immediately on that first one he'd pointed to with that cocky grin of his.

Fox:
Shuichi crossed one leg over the other, then cupped his hands over the bent knee. His back was straight despite his downward gaze, which gave him the appearance of 'sitting pretty' to a tee. He would have corrected Yusuke, but the teen had already begun working on an equation and he didn't want to be a distraction. So he watched and waited until Yusuke inevitably looked up at him with an expression of accomplishment. Never mind the fact that the final two we incorrect.

"You must get through to those equations, Yusuke. Skipping to them will not get you any rewards. If you want my clothes, you will need to complete the paper in its entirety. Try again, I am here if you have any questions."

EDDE:
He took the fact that the redhead didn't say anything more like a green light than anything else. So when he was corrected only after looking up, he had a pout to offer back. "Aww... Fine~" The elongated whine wasn't a denial in the least. He should have known that would be too damn easy.

"I probably knew better anyway," he admitted cheekily. Before looking back down he let his eyes linger on the sight his boyfriend had produced of himself. The pout erased itself pretty quickly due to that 'pretty sit' of his. The calm smile accompanied a warm, good-humored chuckle when he did look back down again.

That wiped away too; replaced by more obvious concentration than he'd had during those few cocky minutes it had taken him to do the others. His incentive was right in front of him. So he couldn't help but peek up at him after he finished each equation. The look in his eye wasn't questioning though. It was admiring for a nice moment before turning back down.

It worked great in keeping him going. And while it took way too much time for his own liking to finish up the page, he got pretty determined to do all of them before asking if he'd gotten them right. Why not? If he did that, he'd be able to enjoy the show all at once, right?

After what seemed like forever, he turned that happy puppy look up him again. "There," was all he claimed. Although he did it quite happily.

Fox:
He watched in silence once more. He counted the correct and the incorrect, and at first Yusuke seemed to be doing quite well! He would have lost his shirt if the teen had looked up at him, but instead the detective continued on with a firm look of concentration on his face. If Kurama weren't so dead set on helping, he would have been staring at that rounded face cinching in his focus. Instead, Kurama kept his eyes on the sheet of paper, glancing up only now and then to see the time on the clock.

Kurama kept his impatience to himself. It wasn't the fault of Yusuke, but he was incredibly eager to move on to that 'something special.' Enough so that he chewed lightly on the inside of his cheek while his foot tapped the air.

At Yusuke's claim the fox picked up the pencil and went about circling all of the problems he'd gotten wrong. It was quite a few... including the ones that marked the removal of his pants and underwear. "You will need to repeat these," he informed before placing the pencil back down. "But you have earned one of your rewards," and with that, the fox grasped the hem of his shirt and lifted it up and over his head with a pretty arch. His hair fell in a cascade over his back and the shirt was dropped behind him on the table. "But I think you would do well with a break from mathematics," and he really didn't want to wait any longer. His mouth was already watering.

Shuichi placed the essay prompt over the equations. "We can return to them once you've completed this."

EDDE:
"Aww." The downtrodden whine and soft pout that spoke toward his understanding of the loss was replaced quickly once he'd done it under the fox's words. Because he kept right on and said he'd at least earned the shirt. At least he assumed it was the shirt since the others were wrong. Why was he so damned curious what he'd done wrong when he was faced with the confirmation of that assumption?

Then again it wasn't like he wasn't paying attention to his boyfriend through that curiosity. Chocolate eyes lit up and travelled over the several flashing movements the simple action caused. Arms lifting and exposing skin; a pretty position to appreciate as it lifted over his head; the flutter of pretty locks that fell down over his back as the ponytail was pulled through it. And he didn't waist a moment of travelling eyes as he watched him partially disrobe. Appreciation for the sight was written all over him as he watched.

Shuichi continued speaking as he tore his eyes away to look down at the paper that was placed over the problems that would solve his own in the form of the rest of those clothes. "Too bad I screwed it up," he hummed out lightly.

Although he did add quite a thoughtful point. "I don't suppose it would have helped me focus if I hadn't, though."