Trifecta Love from A to Z

By Shin Sankai

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Author's Notes: The end has finally come, and in all honesty, thank goodness for that! This was very tough to write and I'm not sure if its as sugary sweet as I was hoping it to be, even if there is a lot of 'fluff' laced within it. Honestly, I had no idea what words I could use for this last chapter, but alas, this is as 'perfect an ending' as I could possibly hope for. The thought of them being together, forever and ever, which is why I have used 'Zutto, Zutto' is all that I wanted. And lastly, thank you to everyone for sticking with me to the very end. If you enjoyed this, even a little, I am glad.

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Chapter 26: Zutto, Zutto

The alarm beeping from a cellphone jolted the two occupants sprawled in bed awake, one letting off his customary snort as his deep slumber was interrupted. Kirishima let out a slight groan when a heavy body crawled slightly over him, hand moving across the bedside table to mute the alarm.

"Do we have to get up?" Kirishima sultrily mumbled into his companion's dishevelled hair, hands drifting up and down a shuddering back as Yokozawa had slumped heavily over him, something he was quickly getting used to.

"We've got work." Yokozawa instantly replied and though it was very tough to do, Kirishima stopped his ministrations and allowed Yokozawa to shuffle out of bed.

The Editor-in-Chief frowned slightly when his younger companion was refusing to look at him or even make conversation with him. Albeit it would generally be complaining about the clothes littered on the carpet, but the salesman picked them up without griping and placed them in a hamper near the closed door.

"Takafumi..." Almond orbs widened when he watched, lips parting in surprise as Yokozawa suddenly fled the bedroom! "What the..." Kirishima scrambled out of bed, rushing to the door just in time to hear the bathroom door click and lock shut. "Takafumi, what's wrong? Are you unwell?" He tapped lightly on the door, but only listened to the shower turn on.

"Otousan?" Kirishima turned his gaze from the bathroom door to his pyjama clad daughter.

"Morning Hiyo."

"Morning... Um, is Oniichan alright?"

"Well..."

"I was just heading to the bathroom when I noticed he was really red in the face. Were you teasing him again?" Kirishima watched his adorable daughter place her hands on her hips, probably ready to give him an earful for picking on her adorable Oniichan. The Editor-in-Chief pondered over the comment, lips parting and heart beginning to pound when he went over the conversation from last night. Zutto, Zutto... And it instantly brought a smile to his face, eyes moving back to his worried daughter. All he did was ruffle his hand in her messy hair.

"We've got ourselves a cute one."

"Huh?" Hiyo tilted her head in confusion at her fathers words but watched him head into the living room, mumbling something about making coffee. Her big brown eyes turned when the bathroom door creaked open, Yokozawa glancing into the hallway as though making sure Kirishima wasn't in the vicinity.

"Are you alright Oniichan?"

"Ah, um, yes."

"If Otousan ever upsets you, just let me know and I'll deal with him." The comment was so cute it made Yokozawa crouch down to be at Hiyori's level, gazing into her big brown eyes with his steely blue ones.

"Promise?" He held out his pinky finger, watching the youngster grin wholeheartedly.

"Mm!"

"I'll wait until Hiyo has finished her shower before starting on breakfast." He watched her dart into the bathroom, a spring in her step at cooking with him once more.

Yokozawa moved back into Kirishima's bedroom, to grab a pair of socks, his jacket and a tie before taking a deep breath as he moved silently and carefully into the living room.

"Morning Takafumi!" Kirishima greeted the man from the kitchen.

"What are you doing?" Yokozawa blatantly asked as there Kirishima was, still dressed in the slacks he wore to bed, only now it was accompanied by a faded black shirt and he was at the kitchen bench...chopping!

"What does it look like, I'm chopping tomatoes obviously."

"Yes, but,"

"What? I can chop you know." Kirishima voiced in defence of himself. He wasn't that useless in the kitchen! Not that he ever got a chance to show off his skills, even though he was only assuming he had skills, because the kitchen was his adorable daughter's and lover's domain. "See, no cut hands or anything." Kirishima remarked as he finished off the salad without a hitch, taking it to the table with a wide grin on his lips.

"Um, thanks, but Hiyo and I can do the rest."

"If you and Hiyo keep doing things without me, I'm seriously going to get jealous." Yokozawa silently stared at the man, wondering if he was joking. "And keep staring at me like that, its going to get me all hot...ah...morning Hiyo!" Steely blue orbs widened, hoping Hiyo had not heard everything her father was stupidly rambling off, or more or less, understood what her father was saying.

"We've already said morning to each other." Yokozawa observed Hiyo coming over to the table, eyeing the salad. "You did this yourself? Without Oniichan or I with you?" It was like she was talking to a child who was in the kitchen without supervision, it was downright cute and laughable as it brought a slight grin to Yokozawa's lips.

"When are the two of you going to have some faith in me in the kitchen!?" Kirishima complained, but it appeared he was being ignored as his currently awkward lover was standing by his daughters side, hand brushing through her hair.

"I said we'd do the rest, so how about it?" Kirishima took a seat, and even though he was pouting at the duo's lack of confidence in him, it didn't last long as once again he was witness to the adorable way his lover and daughter went about their morning ritual in the kitchen.

#

The hearty breakfast was interrupted by Yokozawa's phone going off, steely blue orbs glancing down at the screen.

"Something wrong?"

"I'm being called to Isaka-san's office."

"Why?"

"I'm not sure." Yokozawa stood from his seated position and placed his dishes in the sink.

"I'll do them after I brush my teeth Oniichan." With a nod of his head in thanks, Yokozawa began to collect his things together, needing to get into the office to find out what was going on.

"Oh, before I forget, here." He practically threw the bag of chocolate muffins on the table, Kirishima's hand stopping the wrapped goods from rolling off the table. Yokozawa had hid them away, in his bag where Kirishima wouldn't think to look for anything. The salesman didn't want to make a big deal out of it and before he lost all nerve he'd pulled them from their hiding place and handed them over.

"What is this?"

"Hiyo and I were baking last night while you were at the office." Yokozawa placed on his jacket, doing up the buttons, his tie already around his neck. "I remembered you childishly complaining about not getting chocolate from me and so there you go."

"Wow, how...unromantic."

"Shut up!"

"Takafumi," Kirishima waited patiently for his companion to finally lift his gaze, which he'd really not seen much of this morning. "Marry me?" It was extremely enjoyable to watch the salesman's eyes widen, registering what he had finally said in his brain. His lips parted, his face turned red, even the redness reached the tips of his ears, as he tried to splutter a response to the proposal. Kirishima chuckled as he witnessed Yokozawa run out of the living room, escaping to the genkan to throw on his shoes before listening to it slam shut as Yokozawa made his escape.

"Otousan, that wasn't nice." Jerking in his seated position, Kirishima hadn't realised he had an audience as he gazed over at his pouting daughter. "If you're going to propose to Oniichan, at least do it a little more romantic then that, especially when he's clearly worried about work." Hearty laughter echoed throughout the Kirishima residence as the handsome father engulfed his young daughter in a hug. "Ah, Otousan, too tight!"

"Sorry, sorry." He finally let go of his girl. "What are Hiyo's plans for today?"

"I'm spending the day with Yuki-chan." Both pairs of eyes turned to look at his phone resting on the table top, it flashing a message from Asahina Kaoru. "Looks like Otousan needs to get to work."

"Have a good day!" Hiyo saw him off at the genkan and Kirishima made the trek to the station.

#

When Kirishima reached his floor, there was a buzz of activity. Of course this was generally normal, but this kind of activity, the hushed whispers, was not normal at all. He edged his way further onto the floor, sneaking over to three of his subordinates as he bent down.

"What's with the whispering?" He grinned as they shrieked in fright about being caught by him of all people.

"K-Kirishima-san, good morning."

"Morning..." He placed his bag at his desk before making his way back over to some of his subordinates, arms casually crossed over his chest as he awaited their response to his previous question.

"Ah, well, you see, there are some rumours going around the office."

"Oh?"

"A-About Yokozawa-san." This got his attention.

"What kind of rumours?"

"Um, well, we heard rumours that there has been a leak in Marukawa." And this made Kirishima frown. "It appears that Yokozawa-san's name is..."

"He's not the leak." Kirishima interrupted his subordinates, his booming voice shutting everyone up. "Get back to work." The Editor-in-Chief strode out of Japun's floor, making his way to the elevator where he would go straight to Isaka and make a case for his lover. Of course without mentioning the lover part.

#

"Asahina, I need to see Isaka-san now."

"He's in a meeting."

"With Yokozawa right?" He got no response from Isaka's faithful secretary. "Look, he's not the leak, I can vouch for him."

"That's not..." The door clicked open and both men turned their gaze to watch a tall man exit the office, a man Kirishima had never seen before.

"Tsukasa Shige," Asahina rose from his seated position, motioning for the man to make his way over to them. "This is Kirishima Zen, Editor-in-Chief of Japun." Both men exchanged business cards. "Tsukasa-san is going to head up our Kyoto office."

"Kyoto..." Kirishima repeated softly.

"So your Kirishima-san?" The man in question was certain he was being looked up and down, practically being scrutinised by the dark haired man before him. "How is that daughter of yours doing?"

"Eh? Um, she's fine." He peered at this man, who for some reason knew a little bit about him, but there was no chance to ask when Isaka-san's door opened again.

"Oh, good, Tsukasa-kun you are still...eh...K-Kirishima-san!" All eyes turned to the suddenly awkward Yokozawa who was staring wide eyed over at them. While Asahina slipped away, heading into Isaka's office, this left the three men quietly in the foyer area. "Um, have the two of you been introduced?" Yokozawa's heart was pounding in his chest as he glanced between both men.

"We have. I was just asking Kirishima-san about how his daughter was going?"

"And I'm curious about how he knows I've got a daughter."

"Err, Tsukasa-kun and I worked together in Kyoto." Both men knew the salesman was beginning to fret at the two of them suddenly meeting.

"Ah, so this is the dependable Tsukasa-kun I've heard about." Everything was finally making sense now. Though Kirishima was still a little perplexed at this stranger knowing about his daughter. Had his dear companion possibly spoken about him? It made him ponder just how much he voiced and god forbid was Yokozawa possibly drunk at the time?

"Would you both excuse me, I've to go get our guest." Kirishima's almond gaze followed Yokozawa as he just left him here without a single ounce of explanation as to what the hell was going on! He'd received Asahina's text to make his presence known, but he'd not had a chance to question Isaka's secretary about what the hell was happening either. And also why rumours were floating about in regards to Yokozawa being the leak! It had never come up in the meetings before either!

"Its a trap." Almond turned back to the man standing near him. "You're probably wondering why the Chief was called to Shacho's office?" Kirishima wasn't sure how he felt about this man practically reading his mind, though he did find it cute that he was still calling Yokozawa Chief.

"A trap? To catch the real leak?" Tsukasa nodded his head. "Why is Yokozawa the bait?"

"Because he was being targeted, well framed to be more accurate." Why was this the first time he was hearing about it? Why had no one told him what was really going on? Why was he left out? "Chief was trying to protect you," Almond orbs gazed over at Tsukasa. "from getting mixed up in what appears to be a personal vendetta against him."

"I can look after myself."

"Oh, I'm sure you can, but the Chief is all about protecting those he cares about."

"What?"

"Relax Kirishima-san, I'm not your enemy." Kirishima wasn't so sure about that. "I do admire the Chief very much, but alas, I'm already attached." The Editor-in-Chief found a ring glinting on the man's wedding finger. "And besides, he doesn't seem like one to stray when he too is attached, ne?"

"Are you..." The light haired businessman paused in his question when the elevator dinged to announce more people on the floor. Yokozawa had returned with another man at his side, the 'guest' he had mentioned earlier.

"I did not realise you were also in Tokyo, Tsukasa-san."

"Mm, last minute call up from Isaka-san. How've you been Iokawa?"

"Iokawa?" The shorter man turned his gaze towards Kirishima as he had repeated his name. Steely blue widened slightly as he watched Kirishima take a step forward towards the unsuspecting man. "You're Iokawa? You worked with Yokozawa in Kyoto?"

"Yes I did. And you are?"

"We need to chat." Kirishima firmly voiced, not bothering to introduce himself.

"We do?"

"N-No you don't." Yokozawa blurted out, stepping forward and slightly blocking Iokawa from Kirishima's grasp. "The three of us have a meeting to attend to Kirishima-san." The salesman finally realised, from the look on Kirishima's face that he knew exactly who this man was. The very man that had stolen a kiss from him! "We shall catch up later alright?" Yokozawa was trying very hard to keep everything professional between them and thanked his lucky stars as Asahina opened Isaka's office door, alerting the three of them that they could enter now.

Kirishima could do nothing but watch the door close in his face.

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"So this is where you are." Almond orbs turned to gaze over at Yokozawa, he having found him standing out on the emergency stairwell, slumped heavily against the railing as a thousand and one thoughts had been rolling around in his head. "Your subordinates are worried about you."

"Because I'm worried about you!" Steely blue widened slightly at the snappy reply. Kirishima let out a frustrated sigh, raking a hand through his messy locks of hair. "The rumours..."

"Were planted to smoke out the real leak." Almond orbs darted up and over to Yokozawa as he came to stand at his side. "Thanks to Tsukasa-kun's assistance, Iokawa is now being dealt with."

"You mean he..." Yokozawa observed Kirishima's hands fist against the railing of the stairwell. "I knew I should of punched him."

"So you did place two and two together when you heard his name."

"Of course I did! Touching what is mine, the damn bastard." Yokozawa wasn't really sure how he felt about those words. Should he be touched because Kirishima was that passionate about him, or should he be pissed off that he was seemingly being treated like a possession. Kirishima pulled a cigarette from his packet, flicking his lighter to light the end of it as he puffed away his anger. "How dare that bastard touch my most important person." And although this wasn't exactly the best place for shit like that to be voiced, it didn't stop Yokozawa's heart from speeding up, nor the sudden heat which was rushing to his cheeks.

"I'm not that easily swayed you know."

"What?" Yokozawa tilted his head at the confused look on Kirishima's face. Wait, did the man not even realise what he was rambling on about?

"You do realise you've been rambling since I found you and I've been listening to everything you've been saying right?"

"I have?" Kirishima scratched at his chin, feeling that he really did need to shave his stubble again, knowing now that Yokozawa liked him more clean shaven. "Ah," And now his rambling finally registered in his brain. "Sorry, I seem to get a bit possessive where you're concerned." He gave his younger companion a lob-sided smile. "I'm also trying not to get annoyed at you for what transpired earlier, you know, leaving me in the dark over your little honey trap and all."

"That's because..." Kirishima placed up his hand, stopping Yokozawa's fretting as he tried to explain his reasons.

"You wanted to protect me, I get that."

"Its not just that, I mean, I needed to show myself that I can still function on my own."

"On your own? Wait, are you breaking up with me?"

"What? No!" Yokozawa snapped, cheeks reddening at having yelled that out in an instant.

"Oh thank god. Don't scare me like that."

"Scare you?"

"Considering what we spoke of last night, I thought, you know, we were getting even more closer together that you did give me a fright just then." Kirishima loved the fading blush on the salesman's face as he was certain he was remembering his whispered words while being embraced by him. "Takafumi truly is my most important person." He grinned when the blush suddenly darkened. And he was certain that the man was ready to snap at him, telling him to shut the hell up in regards to such mushy talk, but truthfully, Kirishima needed to say it right here and now. "I want Takafumi to fall helplessly in love with me." Steely blue orbs widened. "So much so that from here on out, no matter what happens, you won't be able to survive without me, because that is exactly how I feel about you."

"K-Kirishima..." Yokozawa was literally struck for words.

"I don't want us to keep secrets from each other, even if Isaka-san demanded you not tell a single soul about work related stuff, especially about your little trap, you can still tell me stuff like that, because I'm not going to leak any information. I want Takafumi to trust in me one hundred percent."

"I wanted to tell you but..."

"Don't worry, I forgive you." Kirishima grinned once more. "What I really want you to understand is that no matter what goes on, the trials and tribulations that come in our lives, even when you are angry with me, and even when we bicker over stupid stuff, I want you to fall stupidly in love with me that you'll understand no matter what happens, we'll always get through it because we belong together." Yokozawa's face darkened, mouth opening and closing but nothing was coming out, it was very adorable to witness. "That's how much I love you."

"Sh-Shut up..." Kirishima chuckled as that was all Yokozawa could muster to say at this moment. It was just so...him.

"What's that?" Almond orbs had noticed Yokozawa had been fiddling around in his pockets and at first he thought he was looking for his cigarettes when instead of a packet of cigarettes, his eyes caught sight of a scrunched piece of paper.

"Um, well..." His flustered companion was so adorable. "You remember the race I was in?"

"Is that the card you picked?" Kirishima felt his heart thumping in his chest now. "Do I finally get to read it?"

"Well..." The Editor-in-Chief placed both of his hands over Yokozawa's, locking his twinkling gaze with his apprehensive one.

"Can I read it?" Kirishima practically whispered and carefully pried the slip of paper from out of Yokozawa's hand, turning it over and opening it up to read what was inside.

Your Most Important Person

Steely blue eyes, which had been screwed tightly shut, Yokozawa not realising he had done it, finally opened and turned to his taller partner, trying ever so hard to work out the emotions which were rushing across Kirishima's face. Right now though, there wasn't anything! He watched the man's right hand, his fingers to be exact brush over the characters which were written there, but other then that the bastard wasn't giving anything away!

"Why aren't you saying anything?" Yokozawa finally blurted out, observing as almond orbs finally darted up to look at him.

"I...don't really know what to say." Kirishima voiced back truthfully, his eyes still trying to register what was written on the card while his memories were recalling the fact that Yokozawa had instantly found him in the crowd of parents, grandparents and guardians. "Ah," The card was snapped from his light grip, Yokozawa tucking it, or hiding it, back within his pocket, the man as stiff as anything and unable to look upon him once more. Though he too was having a hard time looking at Yokozawa as well. "I can't seem to look at you right now." Kirishima confessed.

"Wait, are you...embarrassed?"

"Well..."

"You are embarrassed, you're blushing!" Kirishima couldn't see himself, but he had felt a sudden heat envelop him all of a sudden and there was no use in denying it. "How the hell can you be embarrassed? I'm the one that should be!" Yokozawa snapped as he was never good at revealing his feelings. Well, unless he was drunk that is.

"You're so cute." Finally sparkling almond orbs locked with steely blue. "Want to get out of here?"

"But we've got work!" Yokozawa yelled, but Kirishima had already taken hold of his wrist, pulling him down the stairwell. "Oi, Kirishima!"

"All I can think about is wanting to hold you." The salesman had no comeback as he was dragged down the street, during the middle of work and right into the nearest hotel.

#

Though it was never in Yokozawa's nature to blow off work, for the first time in his life he'd done exactly that. Of course the death grip Kirishima had had on his wrist wouldn't have been easy to get out of, but having the man profess his love for him had really worked him over.

And here he laid, naked and sweaty within the hotel bed, Kirishima flat on his back and bringing in long deep breaths as well. He couldn't believe he'd done this. For the first time in his life, he'd skipped out on work to have a secret rendezvous with his lover! This wasn't good at all, he needed to get back to the office, get back to work before too many people began to talk again!

Yokozawa turned to face Kirishima, noticing the man's eyes were closed, right arm slung over them, but he'd taken notice of the goofy smile on his lips instantly and whatever he was about to say was lost to him. Though that smile was ridiculous, he knew, right here and now, without voicing a thing, Kirishima was happy and content. Yokozawa wanted to say something, anything, in order to also make Kirishima aware that he too was more happy then he'd ever been in his entire life.

"Argh!" Of course that was not how he wanted it to go at all, Yokozawa having ungracefully and heavily slumped over Kirishima, making the man grunt rather unexpectedly at the pressure suddenly on his chest. Kirishima removed his arm from over his twinkling gaze, his smile widening as Yokozawa seemed to just be staring down at him, lost in deep thought. "Another round?" He pervertedly asked, that finally knocking his companion from whatever it was he was thinking about. Well that and the fact his left hand was tracing circles against his lower back, eliciting tiny shudders from him.

"We need to get back to work." Kirishima frowned instantly. Trust his workaholic partner to bring work back into their 'lovey-dovey' moments.

"Do we have to?"

"Considering I heard my phone go off a couple of times while we were...you know...so I'm assuming the same would of happened for you as well."

"I can't believe you were thinking of work while we were having sex!"

"No that's not..." Kirishima grinned, raising his head as he stopped whatever complaining Yokozawa was about to do by stealing his lips. He was pleased as punch when Yokozawa deepened it, though also knowing it was not a good idea that the salesman was starting to get him all hot and excited once more.

Painfully Kirishima broke the lip lock. "If you want to return to work, you better escape now and not let me do you once more." Yokozawa's cheeks flushed as he sat up in the bed, watching without feeling at all embarrassed as Kirishima placed on his briefs and trousers. He made his way over to the large window, pulling the curtains open to look upon the mid morning overcast sky.

"What if I want to do you?" The question was out before Yokozawa could stop it and it had literally caught Kirishima off guard as he had been heading back over to pick up his phone when his foot connected with the edge of the bed. The man went down instantly, cradling his foot at the stinging sensation he was feeling and muttered his curses under his breath. From his spot on the carpet, Kirishima glared up at his partner at this unexpected development and felt his breath hitch when he noticed a sexy smirk he hadn't seen on Yokozawa's lips before. Even though he was a little mad as he was not prepared for such talk, that smirk did finally lay conviction to the fact he now knew Yokozawa totally had a devilish side! It suddenly made his heart race, butterflies fluttering to his stomach region and a certain appendage was coming alive too, especially when Yokozawa pulled him to his feet, standing in front of him with not a stitch of clothing on. "Don't look so horrified." Yokozawa finally broke the silence, not realising his question would get such a reaction, or lack of, from his usually upfront and overly confident lover.

"No, I..."

"You seem to forget, I too am a man and want to hold my lover." Yokozawa was thrilled at the little blush gracing Kirishima's cheeks.

"Um..." And though the silence grew, Kirishima finally observed Yokozawa turn his gaze from him, possibly realising just what he said was very out of character for him and found the man blushing too! The salesman was being far too open and honest with him it was just too much to handle! And then suddenly he saw it, that sudden sparkle that Kirishima was finally becoming familiar with. "Ah, don't tease me like that!" He quickly picked up his shirt, thumping his companion on the chest before placing it on, hoping for his heart to return to its normal rhythmic beat. Even though it was at his expense, he loved the deep throaty chuckle coming from Yokozawa. It was so wonderful to hear and because of it, he couldn't help but say, "How about in ten years?"

"Eh?" Yokozawa had not been expecting that! He'd just moved over to place on his briefs, one leg moving into his trousers when all of a sudden that had been voiced! Yokozawa carefully scrutinised his older companion, pondering whether the man was now toying with him, but when Kirishima came over, helping him into his clothing, he finally realised that the man was actually serious!

"I mean," Kirishima scratched awkwardly at the back of his head, feeling his cheeks flushing red once more. "You're stuck with me now so..." Kirishima lost his train of thought when Yokozawa suddenly took firm hold of his chin, lifting it up slightly as lips fell instantly upon his own, drawing him into a lip lock which once again got his heart hammering within his ears. It was over far too quickly as Yokozawa knocked his forehead against his own, those hypnotising steely blue orbs not once breaking from his gaze.

"Ten years it is then." Kirishima watched as Yokozawa made his way into the bathroom, clicking the door shut behind him to freshen up and it was only then did the strength within Kirishima's legs leave him in an instant, he having grown weak at the knees at the possessive look he had caught within Yokozawa's eyes.

He now knew he wasn't the only one that felt possessive of his partner.

Kirishima took a couple of minutes to steady himself before he left the hotel room like he hadn't even been there. He knew Yokozawa wouldn't want to return to Marukawa together, lest more rumours began, and so he made the short walk back to the office on his own.

#

It was past midnight when Yokozawa entered the Kirishima house, quietly removing his shoes as he trudged towards the living room.

Upon his return to the office, he apologised profusely to his boss, opting for a 'family emergency' as an excuse and got stuck straight into work, vowing to work overtime for the time lost earlier that day thanks to his loins not being able to control themselves.

Though the Kirishima residence was in darkness, the blinds were wide open, pouring in the moonlight as it shone its glow on the slumbering Kirishima who was sprawled on the couch, obviously wanting to wait up for him, but failing to do so.

Yokozawa made his way over, placing his bag on the ground and sat on the coffee table, he finally allowed to gaze upon the Editor-in-Chief without the man noticing or teasing him about it. He still couldn't believe this handsome single father was with him of all people. Even with all the things he left unsaid, he was still being treated so preciously. How should he return such feelings? Through cooking? Through taking care of Hiyo? How!?

"What's that frustrated look for?" Steely blue darted down at that hoarse mumble not having realised that Kirishima had woken as though instantly feeling his presence near him. Kirishima's hand rose as he cupped his younger lovers cheek, giving him a slightly tired smile. "You can tell me anything Takafumi. No matter what, I'll listen to whatever is on your mind."

As Yokozawa gazed down at Kirishima, head tilted as he was lost in thought, it gave Kirishima a chance to finally sit up, stretching out the kinks in his neck and shoulders as he'd been lying in the same position for several hours.

"Perhaps I don't need to do anything."

"Huh?" Kirishima had listened to the quiet mumble. He cupped Yokozawa's face, making those expressive orbs finally focus on him. "Are you alright Takafumi? Is it about work?"

"...love you..."

"Wait, what?" To say Kirishima was bloody surprised was an understatement! Though he didn't look half as shocked as Yokozawa did as the man looked like he wasn't meant to blurt that out. Kirishima inched closer, hands now linking with slightly shaking ones, like Yokozawa believed what he said was wrong. Perhaps he thought his true feelings were going to be rejected. "Say it again?"

"N-No!" Yokozawa quietly, but harshly snapped, thankful for the slight darkness in the living room which was helping to cover his mortification and blushing face.

"Takafumi..." The pleading look on Kirishima's face made him cave as he took a deep breath, finally coming to terms with the fact that Kirishima deserved to hear it and for the simple fact is that he too also needed to hear himself say this to him as well. These words were very tough for him, considering the last time he said them, he'd been flatly rejected, but with this man, he knew that that would never happen. It was scary as all hell, but it was also very, very exciting and so...

"I...love you." Instantly he was engulfed in a strong hug.

"What took you so long?" Kirishima mumbled, squeezing his eyes shut as he didn't want to let on just how emotional he was right now.

"I finally woke up." Though he didn't wish to, Kirishima broke contact with Yokozawa, not having the slightest idea what the man was talking about, even though right now he was literally on cloud nine because there was no way the salesman could ever take back that declaration of love now.

"Woke up? I don't understand."

"Do you remember what you said before we headed off to Mt Fuji?"

"What I said..." Kirishima mumbled, trying to think back that far. One day though, you'll wake up and realise that I'm all that you'll ever need. "Oh!" The Editor-in-Chief instantly stood to his full height, drawing Yokozawa up as well, their bodies flush together, and his lips locked with his younger companions, drawing him into a passionate lip lock which left them both breathless.

Yokozawa of course was still blown away by Kirishima's affections for him, feeling those magical fingers dive beneath his now rumpled and untucked shirt. The sensations were making him shudder and he knew his skin was becoming tingly and flushed.

"God I want you." That possessive confession got his heart all aflutter for what felt like the millionth time since Yokozawa began associating with Kirishima.

"It's not like I'm going to stop you." Kirishima stopped his ministrations, lifting his hungry gaze to Yokozawa's wide eyes. His adorable companion probably hadn't meant to blurt that out either.

"That is quite the invitation." The Editor-in-Chief chuckled quietly before planting another hot kiss on his partner and then swiftly pulled him towards the bedroom, their hearts racing as the door was closed and clothing began to fall to the carpet.

#

The next morning found both men in the living room, Yokozawa in the kitchen and Kirishima sitting at the table making the coffee. Hiyo had spent the night at Yuki-chan's place, which Yokozawa was downright thankful for since he was resorted to an extremely passionate night of sex. Though he had to admit Kirishima was always a passionate man in bed, but because of his confession, everything seemed so much more intense last night. After all, he was still throbbing as it was! Though there was no way in hell he was going to admit that! If Kirishima tried to have another go at him tonight, he'd have to fend him off, for his body couldn't take it so many times in a row, even though the mere thought about it was currently setting his body on fire.

"Hey Takafumi," Yokozawa peered over at his lover, waiting to be teased over his confession. "How did you know the leak was Iokawa?" He sighed in relief as he was just not ready for the man's teasing this morning. He didn't want his confession and their sex to be ruined by Kirishima's bad jokes.

"Ah, well, it was Tsukasa-kun who suspected him at first."

"Oh?"

"After I left Kyoto, apparently Iokawa began to act strangely. According to Tsukasa-kun he would become absent from work for a couple days at a time and he would be doing things in secret." Yokozawa brought their breakfast omelettes to the table. "Tsukasa-kun has got a sixth sense for weird things occurring in close proximity of him. He sent his concerns to me in an email, outside of work just in case, and though I brushed it off at first, it seems his suspicions were set in stone when he found some pictures of us hidden in a book on Iokawa's desk."

"Us?"

Yokozawa nodded his head, spooning a mouthful of omelette into his gob. "You, Hiyo and I were eating together at a restaurant. Though the images are innocent, it is thanks to Tsukasa-kun that Iokawa could never get anything juicier then that. I'm sure if he did, he would of tried to blackmail me to break up with you so as not to expose us and to also save our careers. Instead all he could muster at this stage was to try and frame me for leaking company secrets."

"He became that fixated on you?"

"Rejection can do strange things to people. I am a classic example of that."

"So you did reject him?"

"Of course I did." Yokozawa snapped. "I was so shocked by the kiss that I pushed him away and blurted out I had a partner and daughter and wanted to return to Tokyo and so..." Yokozawa's eyes grew wide as Kirishima had leaned over the table, locking lips with him. He felt his cheeks flush.

"You're so cute."

"Sh-Shut up." Yokozawa escaped to the kitchen where he began to wash the dishes. He'd worked up quite an appetite and had pretty much inhaled his breakfast.

"Thank you for my chocolate muffins by the way."

"Ah, sure."

"They were delicious."

"When did you have a chance to eat them?"

"For lunch at work yesterday."

"That isn't very healthy."

"Who cares. Everyone was so jealous as I gobbled all three of them down."

"You didn't..."

"No I didn't tell them my absolutely adorable and stubborn Takafumi made them for me." He was whacked on the arm as Yokozawa began to stack the magazines and newspapers into a pile, trying to hide the blush on his cheeks from him.

"Why can't you be a little tidier in your home." Yokozawa complained.

"Home..." Kirishima mumbled as he gazed about the place, eyes locking onto the sunset painting that a young Yokozawa had done with his sister.

"Hey Takafumi,"

"Mm?"

"I've been thinking..." Yokozawa was ready with a sarcastic comment when he took notice of Kirishima's seriousness. He could see it within his gaze.

"What about?"

"When Hiyo grows up, graduates and heads off to whatever University she desires to study at, I realised I'll be all alone."

"Aren't I here?"

"You're here for now, but you always said that once the rental agreement in your place is up, you would return there."

This was true, though it hadn't been something Yokozawa had thought about in quite sometime since life here, amongst the two Kirishima's had kept him moving, placing one foot in front of the other. And truthfully, he'd grown accustomed to living with the both of them, as frightening as that was. "Um, well..." What was he to say to this?

"It got me thinking about stuff is all."

"And what have you been thinking?"

"When Hiyo and I travelled to meet your family, both the homes that we were privileged to stay in were filled with beautiful memories. They were both so homely it was a joy to be there." Kirishima scratched at the back of his head. "I don't even know if I'm making sense."

"Well, I don't quite understand, but your place is homey. Its filled with lots of memories of you and Hiyo and your parents. Even Sakura-san too."

"Of course, but when I think of a place as being home, for me its a place where not only Hiyo is, but you as well." Steely blue orbs widened, the stacking of the newspapers all but forgotten as Yokozawa stood to his full height, finally noticing that Kirishima had began to pace. He only did that when he was worried as to whether what he was saying was going to cause problems. "This place here, its not our home Takafumi."

"What...do you mean by that?" Yokozawa felt his heart pounding in his chest and ears.

"I want to move." Yokozawa's eyes widened in sheer shock at this sudden news. Why was this even happening? Things couldn't be that bad that the man wanted to vacate the home he bought with his dearly departed wife did he? "It'll mean a longer commute, but I've been doing some research on the quiet, to see what is out there."

"..." Yokozawa was lost for words.

"I've seen some pretty nice two storey stand alone properties in quiet neighbourhoods which would be ideal. I'd love to take you to see them and just think, during holidays Hiyo will be able to rest and relax in the garden, me on the patio drinking a beer and you cooking us an amazing meal..." Wait, had Yokozawa heard him correctly? Kirishima had finally stopped pacing and cast his almond gaze over to shimmering steely blue orbs. "So what do you say Takafumi, want to buy a home with me?" Yokozawa couldn't form a single sentence together. So many things had happened in the span of what felt like such a short time and for fear of crying like a stupid girl in front of his older lover and be subjected to teasing for the rest of his life, all Yokozawa could think to do was rush to the man's side, arms securely around his slightly taller partner as he hugged him to death, trying ever so hard to pour out all his emotions within this one embrace.

"Now that's a better proposal Otousan." Both Kirishima's watched as Yokozawa flung himself away from the older man, face as red as a tomato as he turned his attention to the smiling Hiyori.

"Ah, um, Hiyo, you see, the thing is..." Yokozawa became flustered, having been caught by the youngster in such a compromising situation.

"Oniichan really is so cute!" She gushed happily, it bringing laughter from her father and a frown to the salesman. Hiyo stepped closer, placing out her hands as her father took one and after a bit of hesitation, her adorable Oniichan took the other. "Lets go out and celebrate tonight."

"Um," There was a sudden knock at the door, all three looking at each other as no one was expecting any guests at this time of the morning. Truthfully both men should be getting ready for work, not needing a repeat of yesterday where they had slacked off to satisfy their carnal desires and so they were intent on heading into the office early, but of course that had been ruined by their unexpected visitor or visitors.

"I'll get it." Kirishima headed towards the genkan, leaving an awkward Yokozawa and a beaming Hiyo in the living room.

"Oniichan," The salesman finally turned his gaze down to the youngster. "I'm really glad that Oniichan is in our lives." Her bashful confession melted his heart in an instant. "I hope Oniichan will always remain at our side."

"Hiyo..."

"Um, Takafumi, you've some guests." Steely blue and big brown orbs turned to the entranceway to the living room.

"Ojiichan, Obaachan!" Hiyo proclaimed in surprise while Yokozawa began to have a silent panic attack. Were they going to ambush him again? Perhaps reject him for being here? If that were the case, and they made their son and granddaughter choose, just what would they do? If they were to leave him now, Yokozawa was sure he would never be able to get over them!

"Would the two of you mind if we had a word with Yokozawa-kun?" Unconsciously Yokozawa's grip on Hiyo's tiny hand tightened, the youngster gazing up at him, concern clearly within her orbs.

"Do you want us to leave Oniichan?" Just like her father, she was good at picking up on her beloved Oniichan's sudden change in character.

"Ah, its alright. There is something I wish to talk to them about too."

"You are sure?"

"Hiyo," Kirishima called out to his daughter, hand out as he beckoned her closer. "Shall we go to the park for a little bit?" Though he too was just as apprehensive about leaving his companion with his parents, it was time for him to be the mature adult he could be and respect not only his parents request but that of his lovers as well.

When the door clicked closed, Yokozawa finally gave the elder couple his full attention, silently directing them to sit down. "Would you like something to drink?"

"We are fine Yokozawa-kun." Kirishima's father commented quietly. "And we apologise for taking up your time when you are getting ready for work." Yokozawa shook his head.

"The thing is..."

"May I speak first?" Yokozawa blurted out his request, cutting off Kirishima's mother rather rudely. He was thankful when the couple glanced at each other and then both gestured for him to continue. "I realise this cannot be easy for the both of you. I can never understand what must be going through your heads in trying to understand the relationship your son and I are in."

"Yokozawa-kun,"

"If...If there is ever a moment where you feel like the both of you are alone, please don't ever feel that way. If you ever wish to speak with a mother and father who has gone through exactly what you are now going through, I'd be honoured if you allow me to introduce the both of you to my parents." He found two pairs of wide eyes gazing quietly over at him. "Please don't feel pressured at my request." Yokozawa quickly added in.

"Thank you for the opportunity Yokozawa-kun." He really wasn't sure what they meant by that.

"What I really wanted to say is...is..." Yokozawa felt his breath come out in a rush, not realising he'd been holding it in when Kirishima's mother placed her smaller hand over his fisted ones. "Your son takes away all my uncertainties." He gulped down the lump in his throat and waited patiently for the couple to get up and leave. When they didn't, it was like the flood gates opened as he poured out his heart to the elder couple once more. "All my insecurities, and any contradictions I may have, your son accepts them all. I've never had someone at my side who takes all my needs and desires into consideration. Someone that cares about my self worth. I get all of that from your son and as scared as I am, I never want to let him go. I wish to open up even more to him. He has peeled away all my walls, to reveal my hidden core, something no one has ever done before and what lays within, is genuine love. Love towards an overly cocky man and his adorable daughter who treat him like the most treasured being in the world."

"Yokozawa-kun..."

"Please let me remain at their side." Yokozawa bowed low to the astonished couple, biting his lower lip as he fought off a multitude of emotions.

"Please raise your head Yokozawa-kun." The man in question took a deep breath, raising his wavering gaze to the parents who could ruin everything for him. The pressure was overwhelming but even if Kirishima and Hiyo were not at his side at this very moment, he knew their strength and support was engulfing him, pushing him on to fight for them.

"Did you know that Zen asked us to observe the three of you from afar?"

"Eh?"

"He wanted us to take a step back, to observe the interactions between the three of you like outsiders."

"You aren't outsiders." Yokozawa instantly commented. "You are Zen and Hiyo's precious family." It was a little embarrassing to call Kirishima by his first name in front of his parents, but if he was determined about being in this relationship, it was something he'd have to get used to.

"Yokozawa-kun, we still have many reservations in regards to this relationship." Yokozawa felt his shoulders sag. "But we want to understand the feelings that you and Zen have for each other and how they impact on Hiyori." Yokozawa raised his eyes to the couple. "We'd be honoured to speak to your family some day."

"R-Really?" Takara couldn't help but gently smile at the young man.

"As we said to Zen, when he first asked us to observe the both of you from afar, this is something we needed time to comprehend."

"I understand."

"And all that we wish for in this world, is for our precious son and granddaughter to be happy." Yokozawa nodded his head. After all, isn't that what every parent wanted for their children, no matter which road in life they chose to walk down? "We've had many discussions between ourselves and we've also included Takako and Sho in on them as well." Yokozawa nodded his head, completely understanding that since that is exactly what his parents did with his family too. "After much thought, we hope you will keep making our son and granddaughter happy."

"Eh?" Yokozawa felt his heart pounding. Were they...

"Please take care of them during good times and bad." Yokozawa had no idea how he was holding his emotions in check, but he was, as he bowed to the lightly smiling couple.

"You have my word." Yokozawa gave his solemn oath.

After a bout of silence, a sweet laugh broke the moment as steely blue orbs rose to shimmering brown and almond orbs. "What are you still doing here Yokozawa-kun?" Kirishima's father voiced, a light smile on his lips. "Go make our son and granddaughter the happiest people in the world."

"Ah, um, yes!" Yokozawa shot to his feet, scrambling for his belongings as he was quite flustered at this moment. "Th-Thank you!" He called out to the couple, skidding to a halt at the genkan as he thrust his feet into his sneakers, not caring at all that he was still dressed in the clothing he'd pulled on this morning, it being Kirishima's black slacks and his white long sleeved top.

#

Yokozawa rushed out of the building, jogging towards the park, wanting desperately to see the two most important to him. He entered the park, taking notice of some couples who were walking their dogs or mothers who were already out and about with their children. Right now though, none of them mattered as Yokozawa found the Kirishima's just up ahead.

"Zen! Hiyo!" He called out to them, for once not caring about the stares he received. Nobody could take away what was happening to him right at this moment, his heart ablaze for the duo in front of him.

Yokozawa had noticed the surprise on his lover's face, for having voiced his given name so openly, but it was soon replaced with a blissful smile as he began making his way over to them, stepping into what was surely going to be an amazing adventure.

Hiyo wordlessly took his hand, grinning up at him as she walked between him and her father. His gaze broke from hers, rising to meet that of his partners, Kirishima grinning from ear to ear, like he already knew what had transpired between him and his parents.

They began their stroll through the park, unsure where they were going, but as they were together, it truly didn't matter.

Yokozawa knew everything would not be smooth sailing, but even so, through all the ups and downs which were sure to come, he knew he was with the Kirishima's until the very end.

Zutto, Zutto

#

End.