Chapter 38: Skin Deep

Sneak peek.

==

“That was… interesting.”

“No, me breaking his neck would be called interesting. That, was a fucking disaster.”

Mao looked over to a clearly still fuming Jun, though his calm voice indicated just the opposite. They had just left a party one of his associates had invited them to. The invitation came in the middle of their dinner; disrupting what had been a very delicious conversation. Jun, with obvious reluctance, had accepted. She didn’t mind. It wouldn’t do to rile any feathers and building new connections is always good. Jun, on the other hand, just wanted to go home and finish their conversation. In bed. 

That had been the better choice all along.

“I don’t know… It had its moments,” she said, giving a shrug.

Jun stopped in his tracks and turned to her, arching an incredulous brow. She continued walking, looking up at the stars. Jun had suddenly stopped their car earlier, wanting to walk the rest of the way home, and told their guards to go on ahead. All of them. Which was a first. He really needed to walk something off. 

Maybe she did, too.

“Well, I haven’t been to one of those parties. It was a definite eye-opener.”

He was at her side again, looking at her speculatively. Silent. As if waiting for something. 

She gave it to him. “That wasn’t your first party, was it?”

It was more of an orgy than a party, to be real. Jun had no idea that one Ayano Gou was the one behind it all. If he had known, he wouldn’t have hesitated to tell them to shove off. And she wouldn’t have had a glimpse into that debauched world. Wouldn’t have had a glimpse into a world Jun clearly had some experience with. 

A world he wanted far away from her. And she was glad for it.

Asking the question wasn’t about her not being aware of that part of his past. She’d known right from the start about his prolific experience. It hadn’t been a problem before. It sure isn’t a problem when he is showing her the decadent pleasures of lovemaking. Of fucking. Of joining together heart and soul. Not knowing where he ended and she began. 

So why was it eating at her now?

Maybe because he wasn’t hers then. But now, right now, he was. Hers. Only hers. 

And having his past shoved into her face with those breasts and all…  She appreciated it being just an abstract idea.

She glanced at Jun. He was still staring at her with that speculative look in his eyes. Did he sense where this was all coming from? 

“Well?” She was annoyed at the insecurities that came barreling out. It wasn’t a surprise they were there. But she never really expected to confront them with Jun standing in front of her. 

“No, it wasn’t.” 

“Do you… I mean… Do you like… that sort of thing?” She was watching him carefully. 

“I don’t.”

“Ami seems to think you do,” she retorted, getting irritated at his short answers.  

They had been ushered to the second floor of the seemingly quiet house. But as soon as the doors opened they were greeted with the sight of various people indulged in very compromising acts. Jun had swore viciously under his breath, tightening his hold on her waist. She knew her mouth had dropped open, unable to tear her eyes away from the disturbing scene. She somehow regained her composure just in time when their apparent hosts stepped up to welcome them, almost gleefully. 

Ayano Gou and Kitagawa Ami. She felt the antagonism from Ami and it didn’t take a genius to get that she was one of Jun’s lovers before. With all her innuendos and little comments. Trying to entice Jun as if she wasn’t standing right there. Alluding to more of his past lovers being in the room. And if that wasn’t enough, Ayano seemed to be interested in her. A little too interested. His hot gaze had roamed all over her and she felt her skin crawling. 

“Fucking take your eyes off her,” Jun had said calmly, interrupting Ami’s incessant blather. But she could feel his tightly coiled fury and it wouldn’t take much before he exploded. 

Ayano’s smirk deepened, purposely continuing to stare at her. “You used to share, Jun.”

Mao lifted her chin, eyes flashing furiously at him. This seemed to excite him further. Jun had calmly reached out and grabbed his neck, squeezing hard.  Ami seemed unable to move in fear, obviously remembering in hindsight what Jun is capable of.  Ayano tried to cover his surprise and gave a lewd smile. He seemed to be signaling his guards to stand down. Enjoying testing Jun’s wrath.

“Take your eyes off her or I’ll cut off your balls and feed them to you,” he warned, silkily. “Now, get out of my sight and if you so much as breathe in her direction again…” 

He shoved him away, eyes glinting dangerously. Grabbing her hand, they left without another word. But she could still feel Ayano’s gaze on her back as they walked away.

She felt Jun’s fingers tipping her chin up, bringing her back to the present. 

“Don’t listen to them. They don’t matter.”

But she can’t seem to let it go. 

“Do you… I don’t know… miss it or something? Am I-“ She abruptly cut herself off, unable to finish the question. 

Am I enough for you?

Jun’s eyes narrowed. He stepped closer; their bodies almost touching. The heat started spreading to every part of her; reacting to the intense way he was looking at her. 

“What would you do if I said I missed it?”

That was not the answer she was expecting. Not the answer she wanted to hear. Her jaw tensed, her chin jutted out. Marking her ire. She pulled away. He didn’t let her escape easily, wrapping an arm around her and bringing her right up against him. 

“What would you do?” He repeated, gazing down at her.

She didn’t want to answer such a question. Trying her best to get away from him. He didn’t know how that question was slicing her up inside.

He cupped her cheek, not allowing her to move. He looked straight into her eyes. “That won’t ever happen, Mao. I won’t share you. Ever. You’re mine.” 

She couldn’t seem to breathe right now. He was almost devouring her with his eyes and she couldn’t help but exult in the feeling. 

“I’ll kill any man who dares to touch you,” he said softly, his breathing going fast. “You are mine.”

She took in a deep breath, taking him in. His scent, his heat, his desire. His love. Her right hand unconsciously slid up, her fingers brushing against his lips. His tongue flicked out to taste her. They continued to hold each other’s gazes. He seemed to want something from her. His gaze almost anticipating.

Somehow she knew just what it was.

Her hand continued its way up, curling her fingers into his hair. She grabbed a fistful, none too gently. Jun seemed to relish the feeling. She tilted her head up, pulling his down slowly.

“And you are mine,” she whispered fiercely close to his lips.

“God, yes,” was his last reply as she smashed her lips onto his and showed him just what it meant to be hers.

She licked into his mouth, earning a deep moan from him. Their tongues battled and lashed at each other. His hands grabbed her hips and pulled her into his, letting her feel just how much she affected him. He slowly rubbed himself against her. He cherished the whimpers she released into his mouth. He kissed her more deeply; never getting enough of her taste. If he didn’t stop, he’d have her right then and there. He tore his mouth from her; trying to catch his breath. He adored the glazed look in her eyes and pulled her forward. Having a sudden idea where they could continue this.

“We haven’t got our suits,” Mao said a while later, her voice echoing slightly in the indoor pool. Jun had let go of her hand and was starting to remove his tie.

“Who says we need them?” he turned to her, a devilish gleam in his eyes.

“No. We are not-“ She started to protest but stopped when Jun threw his shirt down onto one of the reclining chairs and started on his trousers. “Are you serious?”

“When it comes to getting you naked… and wet?” His lazy appraisal of her from head to toe sent a flutter to her veins. “Very serious.”

Before she knew it, he had finished stripping down and was padding towards the pool. He had always been confident in his nudity. Something she just couldn’t imagine herself being. Especially when they weren’t immersed fully in their passions. Water splashed and Jun surfaced, slicking back his hair. He rested his arms on the edge of the pool, cajoling her into joining him. 

“Come on, Mao.”

“I’m just not-“

His gaze fairly smoldered and she couldn’t resist the inviting rasp of his voice. 

“I need you…”

She swallowed hard, her body screaming for him. “Okay, but don’t look!”

Despite the fierce arousal coursing through his body, he couldn’t help but laugh at that statement. He looked at her, lovingly bemused. “Mao, it’s not like I haven’t seen it all.”

“Yes, I know but still, close your eyes! Or else I won’t be going in.” 

“Fine,” he said, letting out a put-upon sigh. “Hurry though. I want to be inside you.”

Her small clutch bag clattered on the floor. 

“Stop that!” 

Jun gave a small smirk, noting the way her voice quivered. He bit his lip, praying for her to hurry because he can’t wait any longer. God, how he ached for her.

“No looking!”

“I’m not!”

His heart thundered as he heard the rustling of her dress. His senses seemed to heighten along with his anticipation. He could almost taste her desire in the air. He heard her small feet hurrying along the floor and the next instant, the splash of water. He moved swiftly, pulling her into his arms as soon as she surfaced and captured her lips with his.

God, the feel of her. He urged her legs to wrap around his waist as he continued to kiss her hungrily. Wanting  to mark her as his. Needing to. Always. He bit and sucked her lips. Her fervent kisses matching his. Their bodies sliding sinuously against each other.

His hand went between them, moving downward. Her hips strained towards him as his fingers slid over her, so gently. She suddenly jerked when he rubbed her most sensitive part. He eased one of his fingers inside her. Finding her ready. So ready for him.

“I need you, Mao…”

“Yes… Yes…”

He gave a groan and thrust into her to the hilt. She gasped, her eyes fluttering shut as their lips met once more. The need to move inside her was great but he stayed still for the moment. He gave a tender kiss, while his blood pounded in his ears. 

“I can’t believe you’d ever doubt how I feel for you,” he whispered softly. “ Fuck, Mao, you’re all I ever want. Just one glance from you and I…”

He moved his hips slightly. She would have no doubt what he meant. She gave a small sigh and trailed kisses on his jaw.

“I know… I know… I wasn’t prepared for it being thrown in my face. I just... You’re mine, you know?” She said in such a small voice.

His whole body gave a shudder; he will never tire of hearing that.

“They’re going to regret provoking me like this. But then again,” he leaned back a little, his eyes twinkling. “I always love it when you get jealous and possessive. Maybe I’ll just shatter their kneecaps or something.”

He always had a thing about her asserting her dominance over him. Maybe it’s because she’s so used to him expressing how much she means to him, so used to him always pursuing her, that sometimes she forgets he needed to be needed too. There’s no denying her need and love for him. Though letting him know makes all the difference. She vowed to change that.

He then sobered. “I know I have a past. But what we are, what we have… it’s everything…”

Mao began to move her hips. She watched as Jun breathed in sharply. “Why did you do it?”

“My perpetual need for you,” he rasped, as he started to move with her. “There’s only so much my hands can do.”

The nip to his chin was a bit harder than usual. Still, it didn’t take away the pleasure it brought him. He gave a laugh.

“Hey, you asked.”

She soothed the spot with her tongue, her gaze locked to his. Jun’s eyes grew darker, his breath going harsh. Thrusting harder into her.

“It’s just the two of us, Mao. Just the two of us. Always.”

“Yes.” Her face alight with bliss and the sweetest smile. 

He couldn’t take it anymore. He growled and moved towards the pool wall. Pushing her roughly against it. The sudden surge inside her caused her to moan out loud and lean forward to seek his lips. She needed to be taken by him completely. Needing his taste, his scent covering her. She met him thrust for thrust, rubbing against him with wild abandon. Their panting breaths, their moans growing louder and louder. The heated whispers of what he wanted to do to her inflaming her further. His hands that had been everywhere was suddenly cupping her bottom, opening her up even more for his increasing need.

“Mine,” he said roughly and crashed his lips to hers.

==

Chapter 37: Power Play {Part II}

Jun took a sip of water, chuckling. His eyes sliding over to Mao who was grinning widely at her ge and jie. Mei was reassuring Lun that he'd make a pretty girl with a face saying just the opposite. He had been entertaining them with a story of how a disoriented ojiisan patient in the hospital had mistaken him for his daughter. And then asked what had happened to him. Lun had taken it to heart.

They were at Lun and Mei's favorite Korean place, sharing a booth, laughing it up. Like it was the usual Friday lunch date for them. In the company of old friends. Something he really appreciated. Chances of having such moments were rare in their world. And he was glad to be sharing it with Mao.

Who knows? Maybe they could have a lifetime of these kinds of moments.

His eyes fell on her hand on the table. Trying to steady herself through another fit of giggles at another of Lun's cold jokes. Having the urge again to take it in his. Remembering how they'd spent their walk around the orphanage hours before. She never did try to pull away.

"What's wrong?" She had asked. They'd been walking around in silence for a while and had found themselves in what was considered the art room.

He had given a smile as he looked down at their hands. He had a feeling. She always knows, somehow. A small sigh came from him.

"It's Wu Zun. Word is he's in the hospital right now," he started to relay, meeting her eyes. "Ge was the one who issued the order that put him there."

Her hand automatically tightened in response. She knows how it works. Knows this was their ge's way of putting Wu Zun in his place. What he did was unforgivable... But... what this can do to both her ge and jie...

"Have you spoken to them?"

"Yeah," he answered, slowly circling his thumb against her skin as they stopped beside a table full of kids' works. "Wu Zun's actually okay."

A bitter smile from him. "Seems he came out with only a broken arm and a concussion. The devil's luck, huh? While Ohno..."

Mao squeezed his hand in support when his voice broke a bit. She knew he was going to visit the hospital today. He lifted his gaze to her emotional ones. She was there for him. Would always be there...

"I know it's wrong to think this but..."

"I feel the same way," she gently said. "He hurt one of us... Hurt you... How can anyone expect us to take that? So, no, it's not wrong. It's just being human..."

One of us... Us... His heart felt warmed at that word. His eyes softening at her, he took her other hand in his and sat down on the table, pulling her closer.

"Careful!"

"What?"

"You almost knocked over Akira's T-Rex. He's going to go on a rampage if you broke this."

"Scary."

"He can be."

"It doesn't look like a T-Rex." He had let go of one of her hands and took the figure from her. He was turning it around in his hand.

She gave him a look.  "You're one to talk about people's work."

He gave a laugh and placed the dinosaur back on the table with care. She had a very good point. He looked up at her. Her hand back in his.

"You've spoken to Ohno's doctor, too?" She then asked.

"Yeah... It's the same thing everytime." He pulled her in just a little bit closer.

"He'll be back." Mao gave a wan smile.

"I think we should go fishing then."

"He'd really love that."

"I know. He won't stop talking about it. Can't believe I miss that."

Mao gave an amused smile. "He might get the wrong idea you secretly love fishing when he gets wind of that. And you'll never be rid of him."

"Just the way things should be, yeah?"

"Definitely."

"That's settled then. We're going on a fishing trip. You'd be cute in fishing gear."

She gave a small smile at that, her gaze wavering slightly. Suddenly realizing she was standing between his legs. His hands had let her go, sliding up her arms tenderly. He held onto her gaze. She was now being pulled to him by the waist.

Before she knew it, she was in his arms. His left arm locked around her waist. His right hand had made its way up, holding her nape, fingers in her hair. She couldn't look away. Try as she might...

The need she sees in his eyes...

She can't turn him away. Not right now when she knows he's hurting. When he's trying so hard to just pull it together. He's been through a lot...

She gasped when he suddenly buried his face into the curve of her neck, holding on tighter. He nuzzled her slightly, letting out another sigh. Taking in her scent.

"What would I do without you?"

She curled her hands on his shoulders. Her saddened eyes closing.

"You'll be alright, Jun...," she whispered. "You'll be alright."

He didn't seem to hear her. Losing himself in her like so many times in the past. All he could think about was her. How she was in the circle of his arms again. He pressed closer, murmuring her name. His lips brushing softly against her pulse point. He could feel her heartbeat start to race.

He did it again. Could feel her leaning against his head.

And again. Her hands clutching the material of his suit. As if wanting him closer.

Her body's instinctual reactions to him. And he couldn't help feeding on it. Couldn't help the surge of want slamming into him. No matter what, the connection between them will always be this strong. And all he wanted was for both of them to fall into it. To taste the heat...

The fingers in her hair tightened. His hand wrapped around her waist has found its way under her top. He almost groaned as his fingers teased her smooth skin. Soft brushes of his lips turned more ardent. Moving seductively up and down her neck. Nibbling and nipping. The soft whimper from her pushed him to bite down hard.

And it was the wrong thing to do.

She suddenly stiffened and pushed away from him. The lost of her warmth making him ache. He watched her scramble away; as if she couldn't be far enough. Their eyes locked. Both a little breathless and a lot confused.

She'd never looked this panicked before. And he couldn't quite understand what it was in her eyes but... It was adding more to the frustration. She was running her hands through her hair, trying to compose herself.

"We should go. Mei Jie's most probably done with the kids. She'd be looking for us." She was worrying her lip. Eyes pleading silently with him.

He wanted to talk about this. And more than that, he wanted to just pull her to him and try to comfort her. Unable to take this. He sighed inwardly. But she looked about ready to bolt. And it pains him to see that. Belatedly realizing that he shouldn't have lost his head. But she had always that effect on him...

He slowly stood up. And gave a small smile. "Okay. Let's go have that lunch."

The grateful smile she returned made him feel a bit better. But as they made their way out of the room, that look in her eyes came back to him. And he couldn't seem to shake it off.

His throat tightened.

And he had the feeling he never will.

He broke out of his musings when something in the conversation caught his attention.

"Taiwan? You two are leaving?"

A collective nod around. The cheerful air turning somber. Jun's eyes went to Mao. She was playing with her chopsticks, a soft pout on her lips.

"Next month. So Mao and I were thinking of arranging a trip. A last hurrah of sorts till she goes to Taipei for a visit." Mei gave a grin at Mao, wanting to keep things light once more. Mao was sharing the same sentiment and gave a bright smile of her own.

Jun seemed to be contemplating something for a moment before he finally spoke.

"That's a great idea. And I know this place where we can stay, if it's alright with you guys." He reached for his drink and noticed they were all staring. "What?"

Mao opened her mouth then closed it. Leaving it in a pout. Not knowing what to say. The mildly puzzled look on her face was too cute. Jun felt more encouraged though seeing that the idea didn't seem to turn her off. A smile swept his lips; turning his head to her.

"It's just right we give them a proper farewell party, isn't it?"

It didn't hurt that it seemed like such a couple thing to do. He'll take what he can get. There hasn't been much chances of late. And the puzzled look was still cute.

"Unless I'm not welcome?" His voice teasing.

Mao's eyes met his. She knew under that light-hearted tone of his, he was masking apprehension. It was always one unsure thing after another between them now. Always. And it's with a heavy heart that she knows she herself played a part in driving them towards this. Not welcome? Who was she to stop him from doing something for Mei Jie and Lun Ge and properly saying goodbye them? They've become his friends too. And ultimately, no matter how much she tries to distance herself from him, it would be no use. He is a big part of her life. Of her. That much she can't really deny. Isn't denying any longer.

Wasn't what happened at the orphanage just a testament to that? Thinking about it made the guilt resurface once more. Her mind wanted to forget. She really wanted to forget... But it was as if her body doesn't know the concept. It remembers all too well how they fit together... How they can make each other burn... It was so easy to fall into it wuith him... Was it just a craving to be in a place where she felt loved, cherished; where nothing but the two of them existed? Where the harsh light of day can't hurt them... But then, all of a sudden, there was Pi... Broken, jaded, aggravating and so real... Mind and body as one had protested, prompting her to break away frantically. And she knew... She knew why that is as she looked into Jun's troubled eyes.

She isn't his.

Not anymore.

"Mao?" She heard Jun's concerned voice. She still hasn't answered his question.

That natural need to dispel his worries is there again. To make things alright for him. She doesn't want to see him hurt... But then... But then, more than that, she doesn't want to see Pi hurt... His expression when she left with Jun flashed across her mind and she doesn't want to see that ever again... She smiled softly at Jun. Belatedly realizing she had lifted her hand to place over his, she caught herself and brought it down the table instead, fingers almost brushing his. Jun's gaze stayed on it.

"Of course you're welcome." She turned towards her jie and ge as Jun lifted his eyes to hers. "It's going to be a blast."

Mei and Lun then picked that up and the conversation turned to the location Jun had in mind, deliberately being oblivious to the sudden slight tension in the air. They slipped into easy banter once again. Mao made a comment at Lun before popping a piece of barbecue into her mouth, silently grateful for their help.

She then subtly checked the time on her watch. Something she'd been  doing for the past hour.

Jun didn't miss it. Something he'd been doing for the past hour.

**

Placing his elbows on the ledge, Pi looked towards the gate once more. His gaze then slid towards his untouched pizza, as well as the juicebox. Lunch didn't have the same appeal it had two hours ago. The clash of jealousy and envy had made sure of that. He thought he was being ridiculous. It's not as if Mao preferred to be having lunch with Matsumoto right now... He kept telling himself that. It was bound to work on appeasing his anxiousness any minute.

His jaw tightened slightly. But then, it was always hard for her to turn down Matsumoto. It wouldn't take much for him to bring her defenses down. And he couldn't do anything about it. Because it's just the way things are between them. And who was he, anyway? Just a random fucked up guy who has nothing to offer but still wants to be... What? Hers? He took in a deep breath. God help him, he really did. And he is. She might not know it, but he is. Though she might not want it...

And he wants her to be his. So fucking much. He never knew he could feel like this at all. He was drowning in it. This need to have every part of her, this possessiveness... It was the last thing he should be feeling. Hasn't she had enough of that? But he can't help it. No matter how much he thinks she deserves someone better than him... But it all still comes down to if she wants it... Wants him. He knows she's said as much but watching her with Matsumoto... He just doesn't know what he should believe anymore.

Maybe if he just sees her right now...

The bang from the rooftop door pulled him out of his troubled thoughts and he quickly turned around. His elation plummeted as he watched him come forward.

"Aren't you done sulking yet?" Yuki asked as he walked towards the lone bench off to the side. He had two slices of pizza in one hand and a juicebox in the other.

Pi watched him with a frown as he settled down. "What? I wasn't sulking. I don't sulk. And how did you know I was here?"

"Sensei always came here when something's wrong. And I could practically hear you from all the way down. Pizza? Figured you haven't eaten yours." He gave a nod to the said cold pizza. "Freshly heated slice here."

Pi gave an exasperated sigh and joined him on the bench, ignoring his offer of pizza. "What are you doing here? Go annoy someone else. I swear I won't be mad. Coz I'm really not in the mood for our usual pleasant banter."

"Not like I want to be in your refreshing company, but I figured misery loves company." He gave a shrug and started digging in. "You know, with Sensei going off with Matsumoto and all."

Pi remained silent. He figured denying anything right now was pointless. It would be kind of an insult to him if he did, what with him being too perceptive. With an inward sigh, he quietly took the second slice.

"What? You're not curious how I figured that out?"

"What's the point? I know you can't stop yourself from enlightening me." He gave a smirk as he bit into the slice.

Yuki glared at him. "Anyone who saw you watch their car leaving with that awfully crushed look on your face can't possibly not get the picture. If you're not careful, your secret's going to be out."

"I didn't know you cared," Pi said, genuinely surprised.

He stuck a straw into his juicebox and started sipping. "Not you. I care about Sensei. And I don't want problems for her and if he finds out about you..."

He let the sentence hang. Pi understood what he meant by 'he'. If Matsumoto ever finds out about them... He stopped that line of thought. He wouldn't let that happen. He'll make sure they were gone before that ever comes to pass. Thoughts of taking Mao away from a world that has hurt her has been in his mind. It had gradually been growing stronger and stronger. And right now, he doesn' t think anyone can stop him from doing just that.

"Sensei hasn't been very happy for a while. And I know Matsumoto has something to do with that. She's different with him now. And hey, good news for me, right?" He grinned; sometimes he forget he really was just a kid. "But... I want Sensei to be happy. We can make her smile and laugh. And it's all good for a while. But you make her happy. The lasting kind."

He looked down at his half-eaten pizza. Does he really? "I do?"

"Are you fishing right now?"

Pi gave a wry smile. He wants to believe he's capable of giving that to Mao... The uncertainty...

Yuki looked at him for a long while. "She is happy. With you. I could see it when you were together. I can't exactly pinpoint it. But something's changed in Sensei."

Pi's gaze turned to him.

"Hey, no one was surprised more than me." He took another sip of grape juice.

"Why are you suddenly telling me this? You don't exactly like me."

He looked at the juicebox in his hand. "You make Sensei happy. By default, I have to tolerate you. And your sulking will not help Sensei in any way. Or it could just be that something's in the grape juice today."

"Thanks. I think."

They were quiet with their pizzas for a while. Both lost in their own thoughts.

"You never really asked about my backpack." Yuki suddenly voiced out.

Pi's eyes landed on the backpack that's like second skin to him. He's never seen him put it down. "I didn't think it was any of my business. But I know it's important to you."

"It's just easier for everyone. I mean, I never stayed too long in any foster house. I can't remember any place I stayed long enough to be considered home. I'm always being shuffled around. It never ended. So it was better to keep my things all packed in case I needed to go. Which was always. Nobody ever wanted me." He gave a wave of his hand at Pi's frown, as if saying it was old news and no big deal for him.

"But here, I've found my place, you know? Of course I'll always have that fear. I don't know when I'll be able to put this down. All I know is it's going to be different this time if they take me away from this place. My place. And when I saw your face when Sensei went away..."

He gave a shrug. "Like your home was taken away from you. I just know that's how I will be feeling too..."

Pi's startled gaze remained on him. And the kid's next reaction wasn't what he expected.

"Aaarggghh! I can't believe I'm telling you all of this! It's the grape juice. I just know it!"

Pi's chuckling wasn't helping.

"Aaaargghh! I have to go. I don't want to say anything anymore." He collected his second lunch and stomped away. He then turned around all of a sudden. "It doesn't mean I want you to get too close to Sensei."

Pi tried to stifle his amusement at the challenging glare directed at him and tried to answer him with a straight face. "Sure, I'll stay away."

"You are trying to test me. But I'll hold you to that!" He retorted. Who was he kidding? And they both know it. He threw his hands in the air and started to move.

"Hey, kid."

"What?" The growl came.

"Thanks."

Yuki looked back one last time, gave a sigh and walked away. Mumbling something like "You're welcome". The amused grin was still on Pi's lips after he'd gone. He polished off the last bites of his pizza and took a deep breath, gazing absentmindedly at the sky.

Home...

Round and round that word went in his mind.

He never knew it was something he was looking for... And now it's the one thing he wanted in all the world... It was her...

His home.

He expelled a shaky breath as the thought settled deeper into him. A place where he allowed himself to hope... A slow smile appeared on his lips. The first genuine smile from him since Mao left earlier. He leaned his head back and closed his eyes, enjoying the bit of sun on his face he never seemed to notice before.

Home sounds really good right about now.

**

He opened his eyes, trying to make sense of his surrounding. It took a moment to get his gaze to stop spinning. He bit back a curse as searing pain tore through his left arm when he tried lifting it. He breathed in short breaths; his mind registering he was in a hospital room.

Everything was shrouded in darkness, except for the lone side lamp. No one but him with the silence. With his body that feels like it was on fire. He managed a grimace. Story of his life. His eyes unconsciously slid to his bed side. It wasn't always like that though...

She had always been there...

He shook off the thoughts, focusing on the pain. It was much tolerable than the memories. He knew guards were most likely stationed outside the door. Deciding to hit the nurse button, he gritted his teeth to get to work when the door suddenly swung open.

"Hi, honey. I'm home!"

Zun narrowed his eyes at the figure with the irrepressible grin and cursed out loud this time; his head falling back on his pillow.

"Love you, too. See if I don't sign your cast for you", he joked, closing the door behind him.

"What the hell are you doing here?"

Jiro stopped at the end of his bed and gave him a speculative look. "I did tell you this isn't going to end well."

Jiro Wang was considered one of the few people he trusts with his life. Correction, the only person he trusts with his life. Seeing as the other two are out of his life. And goddamnit, out of his mind. Theirs had been a grudging relationship right from the start. Two hotheads trying to make something of themselves in an unrelenting world. They had developed a strained respect for each other; something both of them hated. But before they even knew it, they had become friends. And they both still didn't like that.

Jiro knew all there is to know about him. It wasn't hard to figure out from the beginning that his relentlessness was a desire to break free from Takeshi's shadow. Something he doubted will ever come to pass. Something he had pointed out to him a few times to get him to move on. Which he paid for each time, since Wu Zun thought he was his personal punching bag. It went both ways though. A little sparring between sworn friends and enemies to take out the frustration. But he was really getting tired of it now. He'd like nothing more than to see him get the fuck over his ge and Xu Xi Yuan. And just save himself. His chipped tooth didn't agree though. Sometimes he should just shut up.

"Your ge's love letter still a little unclear?"

He was the only one that really calls him out. "You haven't answered my question."

"I was coming here in the hopes of taking over but you had to go and wake up." Jiro shook his head in dismay. Noting Zun never really answered his either.

Zun found out rolling his eyes was making him sick. He was the only one that really comes up with this crap. And dares to tell him. "You're not the only one with that agenda. If I have to put up with your ugly mug, might as well put you to good use."

Jiro had instantly straightened up, a serious frown on his face. "Who the hell would be that stupid?"

"That's what you're going to find out." He gave a smirk. Suddenly thankful Jiro put it upon himself to leave Taiwan for a surprise visit. He's confident he had it covered back there. And he had to admit, sometimes his antics yielded the best results. "Love's just pouring from all over the place, huh?"

Zun met Jiro's gaze. He was right. It really isn't going to end well. He's already got nothing to lose anyway.

**

"Got room for dessert?"

Pi's eyes snapped open and there she was standing in front of him. A small box in hand. And a smile. It had the same effect as the sun on his face. He was about to stand up when she shook her head and placed a hand on his arm to stay him. She took her place beside him. The box now between them.

"Triple chocolate," she said, eyes twinkling. Trying to entice him with his favorite. Didn't she know she was his favorite now?

Her smile then slipped slightly. "I'm sorry."

"It's okay." He didn't mean for it to sound glib. As if he was trying not to make a big deal about it. Which he was doing because he was an idiot that way.

"No, it's not." She said so quietly, eyes locking with his.

He gave a swallow before speaking. "No... It's not."

He couldn't hold his gaze with her and was the first to look away. "So, how was lunch?"

She then started to open the box, revealing a perfect slice of chocolate heaven. She looked up at him through her lashes. "I had my heart set on pizza and then we didn't have dessert. So it wasn't too good."

Something seems to be clogging his throat. His eyes slipping to her lips for a few seconds. He hoped to God he can speak.

"Yeah... Dessert's always the best part."

Mao bit her lip. The look in his eyes... She focused on taking the plastic forks out, aware of his gaze on her.

"When did you get here? I didn't hear the cars."

"Must have been some interesting conversation with Yuki." She gave a grin as she handed him a fork.

Pi tried to stifle his groan. He wouldn't think to impart the details, right?

"Please tell me you didn't run into him."

Mao chuckled. "No. I came up here as soon as I got in. And then I saw you two. Didn't want to interrupt anything. It's just nice that you two get along. So I went down to wait it out."

"What? Why didn't you interrupt us? I like your company more."

Mao smiled prettily. She was feeling far too happy for such an off-handed comment. And then she realized he was serious as she looked at him. The smile turned softer.

"Care to share what you two were talking about?"

"Nothing, really. Just pizza and something about spiked grape juice. Compelling stuff."

"It's okay if you don't want to talk about it," Mao said with a bemused expression, correctly guessing his apprehension.

"No. It's just about me. About-" He cut himself off when he was about to say 'us'. Are they an 'us'? He was going to explode with all these second-guessing. He stabbed the cake with his fork. Yeah, real nice save.

Mao was aware of his discomfort and steered the topic to Mei Jie and Lun Ge. If he wasn't ready... Of course, Jun's offer to arrange for their trip then came out. It was a bit difficult but she managed to jump to something more neutral. They talked about things from the mundane to the more serious. Yuki's backpack to be exact. One topic after another flowed so naturally while the cake remained untouched. They could be laughing together one minute and be exchanging views the next. The time to go was on their minds but neither was eager to point it out. Though Pi seemed to get more and more distracted and when he again brought Jun up for the third time, she knew some things shouldn't be left unsaid anymore.

"No, he didn't come back with me. He had somewhere else to be." Mao said, her eyes fixed on his face the whole time. Trying to catch his eyes.

He remained silent, reaching for his fork again. His gaze snapped to her when her fingers closed on his wrist.

"What is it?"

What is it? Just the fact that her legs are curled in an Indian sit on the bench right then, looking so radiant and rosy, and he wanted to tell her that she was his. No one else's. His. And he wanted to let Matsumoto know that. Wanted to tell him to stay away from her. To never touch her again.

He wanted to- no, needed to claim her, consume her, keep her. Every last bit and it was just overwhelming. She's not going to want to hear every detail of how ridiculous he sounds. But those feelings are just there. If she could hear his thoughts now... Would she still be willing to be here with him?

He looked down at her hand. It would be so easy to slip her hand in his. To feel her warmth... Her softness... Press his lips against her skin. To just feel her... But then... He rotated his shoulder. The small action not lost on her and she felt him slip away.

"Don't." She called out.

He had already stood up. The tightening of his jaw the only indication of his emotions. She herself slowly stood up, gathering courage. Because she knows it was much harder for him.

"Jun and I go way back. Our past will always be a part of us. I am who I am because of that. I won't tell you any different but I will always care-"

"Look, stop-"

"No. You have to know that I will always care about him. Just as he would always care about me. Our connection will always mean something." She took in a calming breath. "I can't change the past but I know what I want now. I want you. All of you."

Pi turned his head to her. Saying it with such conviction... It was just what he needed to hear, wasn't it?

"I don't want you thinking I'm just a means of escape. That that's all I'm good for. Because this is it for me, Mao. It's all or nothing. I can't be just a distraction till you figure out what you and Matsumoto--" He couldn't let himself finish the sentence. "I'm in this. All the way. And if you aren't..."

"What? You think I'm doing all this on a whim? I've been through enough. I'm not getting into this just because it might sound like fun. Jun is the past. He'll always be the past. But I'm here. I'm in this now. All the way. Because... Because I know you're worth it..."

Turning his body completely towards hers, he looked down into her eyes. Saw the wealth of emotions there, knowing for sure the same emotions were reflected in his. Something was blocking his throat again.

"You seem awfully sure." His voice sounded as rough as sand paper.

"I am." Hers trembled slightly.

"Why?"

Her voice had dropped to a whisper. "Because I saw your scars and I just know they just made you even more beautiful."

"Mao..." His voice aching. His heart...

"I like it when you say my name..." She gave a tender wobbly smile.

He can't let her think like that. Because it was so far from the truth. In ways she can't imagine. It's enough that she's here. So close...  "Nothing's beautiful about me, Mao..."

Her smile widened. Like she's amused about something she knows that he obviously doesn't. He decided to let it go for now. And truthfully, he wanted to be that for her... If only for just a little while.

"Yeah. I'm the type that gets insanely jealous. Doesn't sound all that beautiful, right?"

Mao was quick to catch on. Her heart started racing. "Maybe I can fix that. Tell me what I can do."

His eyes flicked towards the chocolate cake. "Dessert."

His gaze slid back to hers; her breath catching. No one was talking about cake right now. She was so sure of it that she almost staggered back when he was moving to sit down with dessert.

"You can kiss me, you know."

Pi froze for a second, their gazes locked and then he slowly straightened up. He stepped closer. She saw his hand come up towards her face. Her eyes fluttered closed for a moment when she felt his fingers sliding into her hair. She met his gaze once more. Was that her heart she hears or his? Or both?

Inch by slow inch, their lips were almost brushing now. She tilted her chin up, asking once again. And Pi didn't want to deny both of them any longer. He almost moaned when he'd tasted her again. Remembering that night in the rain. And instinctively, they both knew that slow burn of a kiss won't be enough this time.

His heart was close to bursting as he pulled her closer by the waist. She molded herself to him, whimpering slightly,  as if wanting every inch of him. He slanted his lips over hers; his tongue lightly tracing the seam of her lips. And with a moan, she welcomed him so sweetly, touching her tongue with his. His whole body shuddered and groaning, crushed her body to his. His kisses turning rougher, hungrier in an instant as his need arose. Tongue plunging into her mouth, wanting every inch of it. Their tongues wrestling, fighting for dominance.

Her hands had moved up his chest, his neck, all the way to his hair, scratching his scalp, increasing his desire. She kept rubbing her body against his causing him to growl. He fisted one hand in her hair, tilting her head to have more of her. The other moving frenetically over every inch and curve of her he could reach. And then locking her hips to his, rocking their bodies. It was never enough. It would never be enough. Every shudder and moan, every nip, every bite, every scratch; everything held promise. Held claim.

Mine.

Mine.

Ours.

They broke apart with a sharp gasp of breath. Both panting harshly as Pi gently placed his forehead against hers, his left hand around her nape. Their eyes locking, breaths mingling. His eyes drifted shut when her fingers started playing with the hair at the back of his neck. Her nails lightly scratching his skin. His body trembled lightly. He opened his eyes once more searching hers.

He'd felt her answer to his thoughts, his promises, in their earth-shattering kiss.

And now he can see it in her eyes...

Ours.

Ours.