Holy crap, I'm alive! xDDDD
Yeah, I'm just gonna post this. I've actually had this chapter written for quite a long time, but I haven't posted it cause I wanted my editor to check it. I dunno where she is though. We haven't been in contact for months.
Also, I'm sorry for not updating anything in forever. Been crazy around here lately. Got a boyfriend, went to FL with him, finals, construction at house… God I've been busy lately Sorry, but updated on all stories will be slow. BUT I'LL STILL DO MY BEST!
Thanks for your patience. This chapter might not be as good as the other ones, and I might be going solo now. Wish me luck!
Disclaimer: I do not own Black Cat
Chapter 15: First Date
Creed awoke, once again, to the beautiful scene of Train sleeping in his arms. He and Train had been lovers for six months now. A whole, blissful half a year with Train, and his Cat had shown no signs of regretting his decision or changing his mind.
He smiled down at his lover, who curled up further in his arms. They also slept in the same bed every night, since they quickly found that neither of them could sleep without the other. Their beds would become entirely too big for their comfort and they would instantly wind up in the same one. It was always Train's though. Creed understood why, Train felt more comfortable in his room because it was his territory. He's so much like a cat, it's scary.
He didn't mind though, since Train's room had become his room. Each new hideout they went to, Creed wouldn't even bother settling into what was supposed to be his room. It was pointless, since they wouldn't be staying long and he wound up in Train's anyway. So he kept his items in the same room as his beloved's, piano and all. It wasn't really Train's room anymore either, it had becometheir room. That's what everyone was calling it now.
Sighing happily as Train rested his chest on his shoulder, Creed ran his fingers through his Kitten's hair and slipped out of bed. Every morning Creed woke up before Train and allowed him to sleep while he got dressed and got them both breakfast. Train always woke up the minute Creed mentioned food and he never had to worry about disturbing his love while he got ready. Train was a very heavy sleeper.
Train grasped where Creed once was and frowned at the emptiness. Creed had gotten use to that cuteness too and had a plan ready. All he had to do, was caress his cheek for a minute, reassuring his Feline that he'd be right back. Once Train's lips perked back into a smile, Creed tucked him in walked to the bathroom, slipping his robe on.
Once he was covered, he went downstairs and informed the chefs to prepare breakfast for him and his lover. As he walked into the kitchen, he saw Echidna already awake and standing at the fridge. He paid no mind to her and stepped into the back where the chefs were.
Before he could, however, the actress's voice stopped him. "Are you getting breakfast for yourself and Train, Creed?"
Creed couldn't stop his eyes from rolling at the stupid question. It was obvious he was, he did it every morning. "Yes."
She frowned at the answer and asked quickly, "Don't you think it's a little unfair that you get up early every morning, get him breakfast, then wait for him to wake to eat it?"
First, Creed slowed down the overly quick question in his mind, then he calmed himself down from what she was implying and responded, angrily, "Train would do it for me and he has before. He also likes to sleep and hates getting up early, what kind of lover would I be if I denied him the simple pleasures he enjoys?"
Echidna shut her mouth after that statement and looked defeated. Creed knew what he said was completely true. What would be unfair would be to wake Train up every morning when he didn't want or need to be, not what Echidna was saying.
Seeing the woman was convinced, he folded his arms. Ever since he and Train had become lovers, she had been acting strange, and it was annoying him, "So, can I get breakfast for my lover, or do you have another question?"
Echidna shook her head quickly and Creed left into the back kitchen. One thing he noticed about the woman was every time he referred to Train as his lover, she would act almost as bad as Kyoko did when she saw them together. He always went out of his way to call Train his lover, just so everyone knew Train was his. I even try to end each broadcast with a kiss, so the whole world knows of our love, but Shiki always cuts it short. I highly doubt all our batteries die at that exact moment. Creed shrugged his shoulders. Train was safely his and there wasn't anyone who would be able to out play Creed at his point.
As he stepped out of the kitchen and made his way back to the stairs, a voice once again stopped him from his ascent.
"Master Diskenth!"
Creed stopped with one foot on the bottom step and a hand on the railing. He turned around a looked down at a random Shooting Star member. The pale man never took the time to learn anything about any of his small lackeys. They were really just a meat shields to him, they served no purpose other than to do to menial tasks none of the Apostles could be bothered with. He actually never even spoke to any of them. When they were accepted into the group, Charden or Shiki were the ones to decide if they met the standards.
He began to get impatient as the flunky panted for breath. How does someone get wiped out so easily? He must be new, either that or Shiki and Charden did a bad job. Either option didn't matter to Creed, since this one was no different than his other disposables.
Folding his arms, he eyed the man, "Yes?"
Catching his breath, he stood up straight, then bowed deeply to Creed, holding out an envelop. "This is from Madame Freesia. She told me to give it to you personally."
Creed eyed the envelop with interest. Oh, this must be one of the ones I sent to work for her, so we could keep contact. He snatched the envelop and opened it up. Upon reading what it said, he smiled and let out a little chuckle. Looking up, he noticed the guy was still standing there, as if waiting for orders.
Creed narrowed his eyes at him, then said in a calm, but demanding tone, "Leave."
The swordsman tried not to laugh as the man stumbled out of the room, practically tripping over his own feet. I'll never get tired of that type of influence… He looked back down to the paper in his hand and smiled even wider. This was something he wanted to tell Train right away.
He dashed up the stairs and stepped back into their room He noticed his beloved was still sleeping, only now he was sprawled out, like he sometimes did. Smiling, he shut the door quietly and crept over to his Kitten.
Creed made a happy noise as Train rolled to his side and faced him. Kneeling down, he sighed as he gazed at his partner's sleeping face. After watching him sleep for a while longer, Creed lightly shook him, in hopes of waking him up.
"Train," he whispered, but his Cat remained sleeping.
Creed tried again, shaking him a little harder this time, "Kitten, wake up. I got a letter I need to show you."
Train scrunched his face, but still remained asleep. Frowning, Creed shook him a little harder and spoke louder.
"Rise and shine, Kitten. We need to discuss something."
His lover made a loud moaning noise and rolled over, wrapping the blanket tightly around his head. Creed's frown deepened as he stood and leaned over Train. Placing his hands on his love's shoulders, he shook him more roughly. He knew Train was awake now, he just didn't want to get up.
"Wakey, wakey," he said between shakes.
Train moaned even louder and moved away from Creed, closer to the edge of the bed. As Creed followed suit and continued trying to wake the man, Train groaned again and kicked his legs, hoping that would maybe scare Creed away. It didn't work as Creed crawled onto the bed and knelt next to Train.
Suddenly, Train felt the blankets being yanked away and Creed's nimble fingers upon his stomach, wiggling around. Train immediately began to laugh and roll around, trying to get away from his lover. He kicked his legs again and started to slide closer and closer to the edge until he finally hit the floor with a loud thump.
Creed leaned over the edge of the bed, looking down at Train who had the blanket fall on top of him. His Cat pulled the covering off his head and glared at Creed, who only smiled mischievously.
"What's the big—"
But Train's angry sentence was cut off as Creed shoved a piece of paper in his face. Train blinked a few times, then took it from his hand.
After reading what it said, he looked at his Stallion confused, "Madame Freesia's birthday party? What's so important about that?"
Creed was still smiling as he spoke, "Don't you remember who she is?"
Train cocked an eyebrow at his partner's enthusiasm. "Yeah, some old, rich broad. You've told me about her, but I've never met her."
"Don't you remember what else I told you?" Creed said, still smiling.
Train knew the answer, but was confused why this whole situation made Creed so happy. "Yeah, she's been sponsoring us since the beginning. What's your point?"
Creed frowned. "The point is, she's one of the richest women in the world. She's worth more than 70 million dollars! We can't afford to lose her."
Train was still confused. "What does any of that have to do with this invitation to a birthday party?"
Creed's smiled returned. "In return for Doctor's research on certain, "unusual" animals, she gives us the items and financial support we need."
Train sighed and rolled his eyes. "I know that, it didn't answer my question."
His smile broadened further. "As I said, we can't afford to lose her support. At this party, she's going to be showing off Doctor's latest work, I've never seen it before. She wants both of us to attend so we can see it first hand."
Train was a little shocked by that statement. "You mean actually leave and go out into the open? Isn't that dangerous right now?"
Creed changed his position on the bed to sitting with his legs folded together and arms crossed. "Under any other circumstance, yes. But this is different. The crowd that usually hangs around Madame Freesia isn't exactly on the up and up." He began counting on his fingers. "Crime bosses, murderers, thieves. We'll be able to blend."
At the slightly confused and unconvinced look on Train's face, Creed tried a different approach. "Think about it, a woman who is sponsoring a group bent on destroying Chronos and buys… "unusual" animals won't be surrounded by the world's greatest heroes."
Train leaned back on his hands and eyed his lover wearily. "Wouldn't that be all the more reason for people like Chronos to be there?"
Creed smiled, "On the contrary, that's the last place Chronos would go. They're not stupid enough to invade an old woman's birthday party. That would cause too much havoc. And it's not like everyone Freesia knows is on Chronos' wanted list. There are executives, royalty and politicians, Chronos has no problems with them. The ones wanted are on the sweeper's bounty list, Chronos doesn't really care for those people." Creed smiled smugly at his excellent reasoning. "Besides, they have no reason to be there. What would make them believe that an old lady like Freesia would be sponsoring us?"
"Senility?" Train asked half joking, half serious. At Creed's stubborn expression, Train laughed and shrugged his shoulders. "All right, Creed. I trust your judgment."
Train smiled at Creed's happy expression, who spoke in a merry tone. "So then you're agreeing to go?"
The brunette cocked an eyebrow. "Why do I have to go?"
Creed frowned, leaning closer to his beloved, and pointed to a certain part in the invitation. "I've told her about you… about us. I've told everyone and she invited you too. I can't go by myself…" Creed's gaze met his Cat's. "We've been together for six months now, and we haven't even been able to leave the mansion… I-I don't mind it, as long as I'm with you, but… it would be nice to have a first date…"
Train looked into those crystal eyes that made him crazy and frowned at the puppy dog look they gave. Creed had him agreeing before he could really disagree.
"All right, if that's what you want."
Creed practically squealed and launched himself at Train, wrapping is arms around his neck. Train laughed at Creed's overzealous reaction and patted his head.
"By the way, what do I have to wear to this thing?" Train figured since it was a birthday party, he wouldn't have to get too dressed up, even though he knew Creed would.
"A suit," Creed stated.
Train blinked, "A suit? I don't have a suit."
Creed chuckled, "Of course you do, Kitten." He released Train and stood from his lap, which he had fallen into when he threw himself at the Cat.
Train watched as his lover walked over to their closet and stepped inside. He could hear him shuffling around before he came back out with a suit wrapped in plastic in hand.
Creed smiled and held it in front of himself. "See?"
The Black Cat eyed the suit. The pants and jacket were black, as expected, and it had a white undershirt with gold, vertical strips. Even the black tie was situated around the neck. Creed already had it set up for him.
Train eyed his Stallion shocked. "When did you get this?"
"I've had it for awhile. You don't have any nice clothes, and I thought you should, just in case." Creed explained happily.
"Why have I never seen it?" Train asked curiously.
Creed's smile never faded. "Because I wanted it to be a surprise for when you would need it."
Train laughed, then stood. "That's just like you…"
Creed walked over to him and placed the suit in front of his body. He looked his Feline up and down with sparkling eyes, smiling brightly. "I knew it'd look good."
He sounded like he was talking to himself as he spoke, so Train just stood there and allowed his lover to examine what the suit would look like on him. Really, he did not want to put it on. He hated suits, even though he only wore them a couple times before. They were too constricting for his taste. But if Creed really wants to go to this thing, I'll try not to fuss over it.
Creed seemed to read his thoughts and looked up at him. "You're gonna make a fuss when you put it on, aren't you?"
Train smiled embarrassed and scratched the back of his head. "I'll try to be good."
"You won't succeed." Creed knew Train was going to put up a fight the minute the tie went on. It didn't bother him. He knew he could get Train in that suit.
Creed walked back to the closet and put the suit in a place Train would be able to find it easily. Yawning, Train finally looked at the clock and noticed what time it was.
"8:30?! You woke me up at 8:30? That's early even for you!"
Creed laughed at his beloved's reaction. "Well, you made me go to bed early, so you can think of this as revenge. Eight hours is enough sleep, and you got ten."
Train scowled at Creed's playful expression. He yawned again and stretched. "Is breakfast ready?"
Creed shook his head as he made his way over to the bathroom. "It's in the process. By the time we get ready, it'll be done."
Train could hear the shower water turn on and sighed. Crawling back into bed, he called to his love loud enough so he could hear over the running water. "If you're gonna take a shower first, I'm going back to sleep. Wake me when you're done."
He heard Creed laugh and recognized it as his okay. Closing his eyes, he fell right back to sleep.
A couple hours later, both Creed and Train were in the dinning room. Several other Apostles were there as well, eating or drinking coffee. Creed went back into the kitchen and got the food he had prepared for himself and Train. Walking back over, he placed one plate in front of Train and the other across him. They sat at a small table, one they decided to set up long ago as their own, since they often ate meals alone and it was easier to talk across a table meant for two than a table meant for two hundred.
Train smiled at his lover as he sat across from him, beginning his meal. Soon after Creed sat, Echidna walked over to the duo, holding what looked like a wine glass. Both men looked at her as she set it in from of Creed and smiled apologetically.
"I'm sorry about earlier, Creed. You're right, it wasn't my place to say such things."
Before Train could even ask what she was talking about, the actress took a chair and pulled it up to the table, next to Creed. Train watched confused and angry as Echidna spoke to Creed again.
"I didn't mean to upset you, so I brought you this wine, since I know it's your favorite, to show you that I'm sorry."
"What is she sorry for, Creed?" Train asked, trying to get his lover's attention on him and ease his baffled mind.
Creed was about to answer, but was interrupted as Echidna tried to gauge him in conversation. She completely ignored the glare and low growl Train let loose as she attempted to make Creed talk to her. Train tried clearing his throat several times, catching Creed's attention only to have it drawn away again as Echidna desperately kept his eyes on her. The Black Cat only watched for a few more seconds before he took the glass of wine, downed it in one gulp, then slammed the glass back down.
The swordsman eyed the gunman in shock. "Train, you don't drink! You haven't even eaten yet. You'll get sick! You're not use to alcohol."
Train still just glared at the woman next to Creed as she glared back. This was his and Creed's table, no one else sat there. Who does she think she is bringing Creed a glass of wine and talking to him like that? Especially when I'm sitting right here!
He stood, although wobbly, with the empty glass in hand, ignoring Creed's confused and worried look as he stomped back into the kitchen. Within seconds, he was back again with another glass of wine and placed it in front of Creed, still eyeing Echidna with distaste.
"That wasn't his favorite kind." He said as if the fact was obvious.
Creed blinked as his beloved and Echidna glared at each other. He didn't understand what was going on or why Train was acting like this. Looking down to the wine, he spoke to Train.
"Thank you, Train, but I don't normally drink wine this early in the morning."
Creed felt his face pale as Train turned his glare on him, silently commanding him to drink it. Although he wasn't sure why his Cat was so bent on Creed drinking the red substance, he did for his love's shake. That seemed to please Train as he looked back to Echidna smugly.
The female narrowed her eyes at him and stood from the table, walking away. Train wobbled a little more before he sat across from Creed. Creed frowned at his lover, ready to scold him for drinking an entire glass of wine before he even ate and at so early in the morning before Train spoke first, still glaring in the direction she went.
"She needs to learn her place. Just because she has a little crush, doesn't mean she should act that way…"
He seemed to be talking to himself, but Creed couldn't help but ask what he meant. "What are you talking about, Train?"
Train turned to Creed, anger still apparent in his eyes. "What do you mean? You've never seen it before?"
Creed blinked puzzled. "Seen what?"
Train sunk in his seat and folded his arms, looking back in the direction of Echidna. "She likes you."
"Of course she does. She's supposed to, I'm her leader."
Train sighed, "Let's not make this into the grammar school explanation. She likes you."
Creed blinked a couple more times before realization set in. "Oh, you mean…" Train's glare in her direction was his answer. Creed looked her way as well, then looked back to Train. "No she doesn't."
Train looked back at him tiredly. "Of course she does. It's as obvious as the fact that we're lovers." He had said that last part a little loud, hoping Echidna would hear it and get the picture to back off.
He never had anything against the woman before. Train even knew about her feelings for Creed and had no problems with it. Before he fell in love with the man, he wanted Echidna to go for it, so Creed wouldn't be so lonely. But now that Creed was his, it bothered him a great deal and he hated how she just blatantly flirted with Creed right in front of him.
"She's not allowed to talk to you like that…" Train mumbled.
Creed smiled adoringly at his beloved. "Train… You're jealous…"
Train shot his eyes to him. "I'm not jealous! I just don't want her to act like you're available, that's all."
Creed smiled knowingly at his Kitten. "That sounds like jealousy to me."
"It's not jealousy. It's a dislike for lack of respect. She just waltzed over here, gave you wine and flirted with you right in front of your lover." He still made sure to say that last part a little loud.
Creed chuckled, "You're acting almost as bad as I do when that brat gets too close to you. It's jealousy."
From afar, Doctor stirred his coffee and watched the scene with interest. "Well, well, well. We seem to be witnessing a lover's spat."
He spoke to no one in particular, since he had Kyoko, Charden, Shiki, Leon and Eathes around him. All their eyes locked onto the location Kanzaki's were in.
"Why are you so fascinated with their relationship? Are you just a pervert?" Leon asked in a disgusted tone as he leaned back in his chair, taking a bite out of a piece of toast.
Doctor laughed, "I'll let you be the judge of my perversion." He smirked as he saw Train throw a little bit of egg at Creed, who caught and ate it. "I've witnessed love before and made my analysis, but it was always between a man and a woman. It's interesting to watch two men in love, I've never seen that before."
The scientist smiled amusingly as he watched Train spill a little milk on himself after explaining to Creed he could handle a little wine. Now Creed was fussing and telling Train to eat because it would make him feel better. Train still seemed to be upset at Creed, so he folded his arms and looked away stubbornly.
Shiki glanced at Doctor, "You seem to be enjoying yourself."
"I am. The fact that it's two men like Train Heartnet and Creed Diskenth in an intimate relationship only makes my learning experience fun. They're quite a pair." He fixed his glasses and laughed again. "They make the perfect match, better than any male and female coupling I've ever seen."
"Pervert…" Leon muttered under his breath as Doctor ignored him in favor of watching Creed trying to physically feed Train.
Kyoko turned her gaze to the couple seated by the window as well and frowned. "Are you sure they're fighting? Diskenth-sama looks too happy to be fighting."
"They most certainly are. Creed is happy because one, Train is making this very amusing, and two, Train's upset because he became jealous of Echidna. Creed is ecstatic that his lover loves him enough to become jealous."
Charden took note of the fact that Doctor sounded too much like a doctor examining a patient to be talking about love. All he was missing was the clip board to take notes. He even clearly heard the man talking to himself, like he was crossing out former hypotheses he had. Is he even aware that love is a human emotion no one's ever been able to explain? You can't diagnose and cure it.
Shiki interrupted his thoughts. "If you tell me you want to witness what they do when they're alone in their room together, I think I might kill you in your sleep."
The bug Taoist felt himself get cold all over as Doctor seemed to think the idea over. "That'd be a valuable observation, since I've never seen two men make love…" He muttered to himself.
Shiki could take no more and walked out of the room, distraught. His entire group was insane. He picked up at the pace as he heard Doctor's voice behind him, still talking to himself.
"Though Creed definitely seems to be the feminine one in the relationship, I imagine Train to be on the bottom. Yes, that must be the case, that's how their personalities work. All the interaction they have in public suggest it too."
Leon couldn't take it anymore either and left behind Shiki. They were both too sick to finish their meals.
Charden was discomforted by Doctor's statement too. "Doctor, do you really need to—"
"Shh, this is the good part."
Charden and Kyoko looked over to Eathes, confused at his statement. Their attention was brought back to Creed and Train, since that's where the monkey's eyes were glued to.
They saw Creed hold Train's hand reassuringly as he spoke is a warm tone. "No one can ever take me away from you, Kitten. You've had me too tight for too long. Now please, eat something, you'll feel better, trust me."
Train smiled dreamily at Creed as he looked deeply into his eyes and nodded. The two men ate together, engaging in loving conversation as they gazed at each other and outside at the bright sky.
Eathes sighed, "Don't ya love a happy ending?"
Charden and Kyoko eyed the monkey in stunned silence. All he was missing was a bucket of popcorn in his hand. Eathes turned to them and cocked and eyebrow.
"What? I watch soap operas."
That didn't appease either of the other two Taoist as they continued to eye him wearily.
"Seems they make up in a similar fashion as straight couples do. Still… why is it so different with them?" Doctor was once again speaking to himself.
Charden wanted to explain to the sick scientist that love is not something you can dissect and put on display, but kept his mouth shut. The man didn't seem to understand any human emotion, so witnessing one as strong as love must have him pretty interested. Though I must say, he is disgracing it…
He heard Kyoko sigh and looked down to his young companion as she eyed the two lovers in the distance. He put an arm around her and smiled comfortingly.
"It's not worth it, Kyoko-san, don't stress."
She shrugged her shoulders and ate her food. "You're probably right."
Charden smiled again as Doctor stood up and made for his exit out of the room. "Well, I've seen enough for now. I have work to do anyway." He laughed as he saw his comrades look at him shocked. "It has nothing to do with our leaders in love, this is separate research."
No one was really convinced as he waved and stepped through the doorway.
"Damn it…" Train muttered as he finished buttoning up the jacket of his suit.
Putting the pants on wasn't a problem, it just felt a little different since they were nice. Same with the under shirt, though a little more snug than he was use to, he was able to deal with it. Well, he was able to deal with it as long as the top buttons were undone, he needed some breathing room. But the jacket is what really did him in. It was far too nice and far to constricting. Why does it have to be buttoned up? Wouldn't it be just as nice opened?
He straightened out his suit as he looked in to full length mirror. I certainly look different… It was form fitting, and the gold strips seemed to accent his eyes, which is probably what Creed had planned. The black showed off his muscles, but not so much as to void out the niceness of it. Okay, even though I don't like it, I admit it looks good.
Hearing footsteps behind him, Train turned around to see Creed stepping out of the closet, fully dressed in his suit. Train felt heat begin to flare in him as his lover smiled at him. Creed's suit was the same color silver as his hair and he wore a white undershirt with crystal blue striping, matching his eye color. His tie was the same color as his suit, but had little red roses on it, which brought out the crimson his eyes hid that made Train's heart beat race. The pale man's hair was tied up, but strands framed his face, giving him an innocent look.
Creed smiled at Train as his face began to turn red and chuckled as he noticed his beloved looking him up and down. He allowed his Cat to eye him as he spoke, "How do I look?"
It was a stupid question since Train's face gave away what he thought, but he wanted to hear his beautiful voice say the words. That didn't seem to be the case as his Kitten was at a loss for words. Creed cleared his throat which brought Train's attention to his face, smiling as he looked into the swordsman's eyes.
"Well?" Creed asked expectantly.
Train was quiet for only a little longer until he smiled warmly, "You look great…"
Creed beamed happily at Train, but frowned when he noticed what his lover looked like. "Train, you didn't finish getting ready."
Train looked down at himself, then back at Creed, "Yes I did."
Creed sighed, "No you didn't. You're shirt isn't buttoned up all the way and you don't even have your tie on. And those aren't the socks I told you to wear! What? Do I have to dress you myself?"
Train blinked at Creed's ranting, but had no time to react as he was upon him, buttoning up the rest of his shirt himself.
The Black Cat narrowed his eyes and pushed Creed's hands away. "I'm an adult, I can do it."
He began to button up his own shirt as Creed folded his arms and watched, making sure he did it right. Creed stifled his laughter at the look on Train's face as he buttoned it to the top. He was actually grateful that his Feline was lasting this long without calling the whole thing off. Creed smiled thankfully as Train fidgeted a little. The swordsman man went over to their closet and pulled out a pair of socks. Handing them to Train, his partner complied and put them on, followed by the shoes Creed gave him. After he was done, Train looked at Creed, forcing back the discomfort his felt.
"Are we ready to leave now?"
Creed shook his head. "You're still forgetting something."
Train groaned as Creed walked over to the bed and picked up the black tie he purposely ignored. He gulped as he eyed the object. "I don't know how to put it on." It was the truth, but not the reason it wasn't on.
"I figured that, so I'll help you put it on."
Creed walked back over to Train with the tie and wrapped it around his neck. Train was forcing himself not to whimper like a baby as Creed began to tie it. He knew how much tonight meant to his lover and he didn't want to make a fuss. As he felt Creed finishing the knot, he sighed. It's not that—
But his thoughts were cut off as he made a strangled noise when Creed tighten it all the way up to his neck. Train couldn't take that and he started to pull his Stallion's hands away and undo the tie.
"Come on, Train, you have to wear it." Creed said in a tired tone.
"Does it have to be so tight?!" Train exclaimed as Creed once again began to tie the stupid thing.
"I'm sorry, Kitten, but it does. That's how ties work."
Train was still fighting his hands which was beginning to frustrate Creed. Growling, the pale man pushed him on the bed, pinned his hands beneath his knees and tied the knot once more. Train gurgled loudly and whimpered as Creed breathed heavily and sat back.
Smiling victoriously, Creed patted Train on the cheek. "Good kitty."
Train glared as Creed got up off of him and helped him stand. He straighten out both his suit and Train's as he looked his beloved up and down. When he met his golden eyes, Creed smiled sincerely.
"You look gorgeous, Train."
Train blushed and smiled in return as he walked towards the door.
"So, we can leave now, right?"
Creed nodded and walked over to the door as well. "I just need to get Echidna to open the gate for us. That'll transport us there quickly, seeing as you wasted so much time with your childish antics."
"Hey, it's on, isn't it? That's all that matters now," Train said as he pulled at the tie.
"Not for long," Creed chuckled as Train folded his arms and walked down the stairs next to him.
When they reached the bottom, Echidna was already standing there, waiting for them. Before they walked over to her, Train pulled Creed to the side and whispered in his ear.
"She's not coming with us, is she?"
The swordsman smiled at Train's question. "Of course not. Even if this wasn't our first date, this is a matter meant for partners only. She wouldn't be allowed."
Train smiled and continued making his way over to the woman. He glared at her as she looked Creed up and down and smiled.
"You look extraordinarily handsome tonight, Creed."
Creed held Train's hand to calm him and nodded quickly at Echidna.. Before they could walk through the portal, however, they were stopped by a loud shriek of a young, female voice that made both men's skin crawl.
"Kuro-sama! You look so good!"
Train prepared himself for the impact as Creed glared deadly at the girl running towards them. He stepped in front of the teen and growled loudly.
"You'll wrinkle his suit…" He muttered angrily.
Kyoko stopped and backed away from Creed and slowly out of the room. Creed smiled and turned back to Echidna.
"All right, we're ready."
Train sighed and smiled gratefully at Creed, who smiled back and linked his arm with Train's, still holding his hand. The actress sighed as she made room for them to step through the portal. The moment they reached the other side, the lovers were greeted by what looked to be one of Madam Freesia's body guards.
"Sirs, Madam Freesia has been waiting for you."
Train cocked an eyebrow at the man as he saluted them. Creed led him to the location the guard was indicating and stepped through the massive doors. As they entered, Creed and Train both looked around the extravagate room, decorated with diamonds, jewels, gold statues and colorful drapes. Train was actually squinting his eyes at the brightness. His attention was brought to the middle of the room, which had a throne like chair seated with gold pillars surrounding it.
"Creed, darling! You came!"
Train blinked at the old woman who made her way towards them. That must be her. He stopped himself from laughing immediately. Creed told him that she was a strange old lady, but he didn't explain just howstrange. His lover gave him a stern look, warning him not to laugh and Train nodded in understanding, though there was a small smile on his face. How does he expect me not to laugh at this?
He looked on wearily as Creed kissed her hand politely. His head jerked back a little as the woman's eyes turned to him.
"Oooh, this must be the boyfriend you told me about, darling." She looked Train up and down, "Very cute indeed… You better make sure no one takes him away, darling."
Train blinked at being called Creed's boyfriend. It's not like it wasn't true, he was just use to referring to him as his lover. Boyfriend didn't feel bad though, just a change of pace. Then Freesia's last words sunk in. It made him uncomfortable to be called cute by a woman like her.
It didn't seem to sit well with Creed either as he contorted his face slightly and wrapped an arm around Train's waist tightly, pulling him closer. Either Freesia got the picture, or simply decided to change her gaze from Train, back to Creed.
"I'm so glad you both could come. That darling Doctor of yours did a wonderful job on my new baby, darling."
Train was starting to get annoyed at the constant use of the word "darling," and he could tell Creed felt the same way. Even though he kept the same polite smile on his face, it didn't fool Train one bit, he knew his partner too well.
"Thank you, Madam Freesia. We look forward to seeing it. Doctor was never able to show it to us and he informed us that tonight, we would know why."
Freesia had a glint of delight shine in her eyes. "You most certainly will, darling. Though she's not ready yet. You both may go and enjoy the party until then. You'll know when she's coming out, darling."
Creed bowed politely and led Train out of the room, who made no respectful gesture of his own. That was Creed's department.
As they stepped outside, Train finally let out the laughter he was holding in from the moment he laid eyes on the woman. Creed quickly covered his mouth and looked back at the door.
"She might hear you, Train," he whispered urgently.
Train pulled Creed's hand away and smiled at him, "She's too old, she won't hear a thing. And can you honestly tell me you don't want to laugh?"
He could tell by the look on his flower's face that he did want to laugh, but was too concerned the old bat might hear them. Train smiled mischievously and decided to make Creed laugh.
"Come on, dahling, you know you want to."
Creed's face was starting to shift more as Train imitated her voice.
"Did you see the décor of that room, dahling? It looks like someone has you beat in the flamboyant department, dahling."
The swordsman's lips were perching further into a smile. Train stepped in front of him and grabbed a lock of each side of his own hair, pulling it into pig like tails, trying to make it look like Freesia's as best he could.
"What about that hair, dahling? Did she just stick two drumsticks on her head and wrap her hair around it? The bride of Frankenstein would be ashamed, dahling."
Creed couldn't take it anymore as he held his sides and started laughing uncontrollably. Train stood up straight and smiled proudly as he watched his pale man hunch over in laughter.
"Told you you wanted to laugh."
After finally regaining his composure, Creed stood and wiped his eyes. "Let's just hope she's deaf enough to not have heard any of that. We need her."
Train folded his arms behind his head. "Don't worry, dahling, even if she did hear it, she probably doesn't know we're talking about her."
Creed chuckled again and walked into the ball room with his beloved. As they stepped inside, both men scanned the room briefly. Walking around, Creed pointed out several wanted criminals, along with politicians and royalty. Train only listened when it interested him, he really didn't care about the other people there. He was only there and in that monkey suit for Creed.
Looking over the area once more, Creed found a bar and turned to Train. "I'll go get us some drinks, you just wait here for me to come back. And no, they don't have milk, I'll get you something else."
Train frowned, but nodded nonetheless. Laughing quietly, the silver haired man walked over to the counter. He ordered himself a glass of wine and Train some punch. He knew it was strange to be walking through the dance floor with wine in one hand and punch in another, but he didn't care; he didn't want to make his love drink something he didn't want to just because Creed didn't want to look ridiculous.
When he got within viewing sight of Train, he growled to himself as he saw two girls standing around him. Even from afar, he could tell they were flirting with him. What do I have to do? Tattoo my name on him?! Sometimes Train was too handsome for his own good.
Creed crushed the plastic cup holding Train's drink in one hand and downed his wine in one gulp, slamming it on a nearby table, cracking the glass. He stormed over to where his lover was and walked up behind him. He wrapped his arms around Train's waist, pulling his Cat against him, and glared at the girls over his beloved's shoulder. Train looked at him a little confused, then understood once he saw the look on his face. He chuckled quietly and smiled at the girls, who seemed to get the hint and walked away.
The swordsman still glared as he watched them go, then looked at Train, "What where they saying to you?"
Train put a finger to his chin in thought. "I'm not entirely sure. Something about I looked so handsome and asked if I wanted a drink." Train pointed a finger at one of the girls. "That one was more touchy than the other. She laughed too much and put her hand on my shoulder a couple times."
Creed growled again and began to rub at Train's shoulder, as if he was trying to get something off it. Train laughed. "It was the other shoulder."
The swordsman immediately began to scrub the other shoulder, still glaring at the girls in the distance. Then, he stopped, and looked at Train.
"You're just messing with me, aren't you?"
Train smiled mischievously, "Revenge for this morning." He laughed again as Creed frowned at him. "Honestly, they weren't making sense to me, so I just brushed them off."
He growled at the girls as they eyed the couple, giggling to each other. "Doesn't seem like they listened very well…"
Train smiled and patted Creed's hand as he leaned his head against his Stallion's shoulder. He knew how easy it was to make Creed jealous. Those girls are actually lucky he's calmed down so much. Had they done that seven months ago, they might have been dead.
Suddenly, Train remembered why Creed had left in the first place. "Hey, where're the drinks?"
Creed blinked, then smiled embarrassedly, "Oh… Yeah, I got them, but I kinda… lost them on the way here…"
"How do you lose drinks? The bar's only ten feet away." Train asked as he looked at his lover.
Creed blushed a little and looked away. He started to hear music play and smiled. Taking hold of Train's hand, he led him to the dance floor. "Come on, Train, let's dance."
Train looked at Creed wearily, "I don't know how to dance…"
The swordsman smiled playfully, "I know. I'm going to teach you right now."
Creed pulled Train to a stop with his left hand, holding his Angel's right hand loosely with his elbow bent and his palm raised. He put Train's left hand on his right shoulder, then placed his right hand on his Cat's waist, slightly around the back. Creed smiled as Train blinked at him confused.
"Just follow my lead, you'll get the hang of it. On the first beat, I'm going to step forward with my left foot. You do the opposite and step back with your right. Everything I do, you just follow."
Train was a little confused, but nodded nonetheless. He trusted Creed and knew he wouldn't harm Train, no matter how small a wound it may be. As he heard the first beat, he did as Creed said, keeping his eyes on their feet. The second beat came quicker than Train hoped and did his best to do the opposite of Creed. He was able to pull his foot away just in time to avoid Creed's right foot as it moved to the right, and copied his movement.
The third beat was easier for Train as he saw Creed position his feet together. He did the same and smiled up at Creed, only to quickly look back down as the next movement came. Creed stepped back with his right foot, and Train followed after him. The swordsman couldn't help but chuckled at the serious look on Train's face. He's so cute when he's concentrating so hard. I love that intent look he gets. Then again, I love everything about him. As Creed stepped back with his left foot and shifted his weight, he smiled. He's doing a pretty good job, for a beginner.
Creed slid his feet back together and smiled at Train as he looked up, with a smug look on his face. "Very good, Train. But we're going repeat everything, you ready?"
Train nodded confidently and straightened himself up. Creed repeated all his motions, rotating them slightly as he changed his footing. Train had copied every one of them perfectly, as if he already knew where Creed was going to move. His Kitten was even able to make eye contact with him after a while.
He shouldn't have been shocked. Train's body was built for grace and ease. His movements were similar to that when he was fighting and since he and Train had practiced together so many times, his lover knew Creed's movements perfectly. His Feline was able to predict them with ease. And since he just knows me so well in general, he can practically read my mind. At Train's smile, Creed nodded mentally to himself in confirmation. Yep, he knows what I'm thinking.
They were able to keep up with the music perfectly and Creed was could now spin them around the room quicker, never breaking eye contact with each other. As they moved across the dance floor with the gracefulness of pros, neither of them noticed some of the looks they were getting. It wasn't every day you saw two men waltzing together. They were even unaware as the girls who were flirting with Train earlier were standing on the side lines, giggling and blushing.
None of that mattered to them. All that mattered, was that they were together, gazing into each other eyes, holding each other close. They didn't say anything. They didn't need to, they could have a loving conversation without any words. All they had to do was look into each other's eyes and feel the other's movements. Their bodies could speak volumes no words could ever reach.
As the music stop, so did Creed. Though he never retracted his hands from his beloved. "That was very good, Train. You handle that like a pro."
"It's easy… when I follow you."
Creed smiled fondly at the statement and pulled his love closer, resting his head on top of Train's. Train placed his on Creed's neck and wrapped the arm that was on his shoulder around his neck, still holding his hand. Suddenly, Madam Freesia called for everyone's attention, knocking the lover's out of their brief moment together. Creed growled and would have been angrier if he wasn't shocked by the large cage she stood over.
"Whoa, what's that cage for?" Train asked surprised they had missed something so big.
"I'm not sure. I think it's supposed to be for Doctor's creation."
Train turned to Creed with widen eyes. "She needs a cage that big for it?! Just what the hell did Doctor make for that woman?!"
Creed still kept his eyes on the large bars. "I told you, I don't know, but now… I'm very curious."
Train blinked at Creed, then at the cage. He was awfully curious now too. What the hell is this woman into? I knew she was strange, but seriously… The Black Cat glanced back at Creed and cocked an eyebrow at what he saw over his Stallion's shoulder.
"Hey, Creed."
Creed looked down at his Angel. "Yes, Train?"
Train merely smiled slightly and gestured his head behind Creed. The pale man looked behind himself.
"Someone else interesting has arrived…"
The swordsman's lips perked into a knowing smile at what he saw. Standing there, next to a woman wearing a very revealing dress, was the bio-weapon girl.
"Well, well, well. Why isshe here?" Creed asked, quite interested himself.
"Not sure, but I'm pretty sure it has something to do with him."
At Train's statement, Creed looked a little beyond the girl, to the other side of the scantily dressed woman. His heart stopped at what he saw and he pulled Train protectively close, as if the man he was looking at was going to steal his Cat away from him. What the hell is he doing here?!
Train looked at Creed confused. His demeanor had changed quite a bit after seeing Sven. He couldn't understand why, he barely met the man once. But the first time he saw him, the reaction was pretty much the same. I didn't get to question it at the time, but maybe now I can.
"Creed, do you know Sven?"
Creed looked at him, trying his best to force back the fear and worry he felt, and failing. Train knew him too well, so he couldn't hide anything from his beloved. He also knew he'd never, in a million years, be able to lie to his Kitten. What he was going through with that witch was enough, he couldn't take anymore. But, he was saved by the bell, as everyone in the room's attention was brought over to the giant cage once more as Freesia spoke again.
"Good evening, darlings. I certainly hope you are all enjoying my party." Her smile was either a polite one, or a cocky one. "But I know you all didn't come here for the wining and dining. The real reason you all came, was to see the newest addition to my collection. Flora!"
"Flora?" Train asked confused.
Before he could say more, he felt the ground shaking and grabbed onto Creed tighter, so he wouldn't fall. Creed had done the same and secured Train in his arms stronger, holding both himself and his love up. Many other people in the room had spilt their drinks or fallen out of their seats. Both men stared at the cage in shock, as a the thing called Flora stepped through the large doorway.
Train's eye widen. "Is that what I think it is…?"
Creed's eyes widen as well. "I believe so…"
The Black Cat turned to Creed, aghast. "Doctor was making a dinosaur for that woman?!"
Creed couldn't take is eyes off the thing. "Not just any dinosaur. A Tyrannosaurus rex." He blinked his eyes a couple times. "Doctor… sure has been busy. It's quite impressive, actually."
"As impressive as it is, it's nuts!"
Both men winced at the T-Rex let out a bone chilling roar. Somehow, Freesia was able to talk over the beast, as if nothing was out of the ordinary. Almost like she didn't even hear the roar.
"Flora was created from her fossils through a genetic research laboratory almost a year ago. The leaders of the group I've been funding specifically for my new baby are—"
But her sentence was cut off as the dinosaur began to ram its head against the cage. The room was filled with murmurs and screams as she continued bashing herself as hard as she could against the solid steel bars.
Freesia started to stammer, which did not calm the guests one bit. "T-there's nothing to fear. Flora cannot escape that cage. It's strong enough to hold a fully grown bull elephant."
"That is not an elephant, you old bat!" Train managed to yell over the screams and clanging cage.
After one last smash, Flora broke through the cage and roared once more. Several guests already left the building as the rest tried desperately to scammer out after them. Some were dodging to the side and under tables to avoid the massive feet crumbling the marble floor. Creed quickly pulled Train and himself behind a pillar, avoiding Flora's tail as it swung past them.
Looking behind Creed's shoulder and beyond the pillar, Train was able to see Freesia practically strangling one of her lackeys. Reading her lips, he could tell she was yelling at them to get Flora back without harming her. Train narrowed his eyes at the woman. She didn't even think of the consequences that would follow a dinosaur? I feel sick over the fact that I had anything to do with this.
"Train, you didn't know what Doctor was doing. Don't start to beat yourself up over it."
Train looked up at his beloved, who was trying to best to give him a comforting smile. His face must have been giving away the guilt he was starting to feel. As comforting as Creed was, it didn't help. He couldn't stop himself from feeling somewhat responsible for bringing something like that into the world.
"EVE!"
Train's thoughts stopped as he looked over to Flora to see the young girl walking towards the beast. Sven had yelled her name out and was desperately trying to make his way over to her. The crowd of panicking guests stopped him, however, and all he could do was shout for her to stop and to get out of there.
Whether it was instinct or personal debt he felt he owed to Sven, Train shot himself out of Creed's arms and towards the little girl and Flora.
"TRAIN!!" Creed yelled as he immediately followed after him.
Train's head start made it impossible for Creed to catch up with him, though. He was running towards a large foot that was falling towards a young girl. Even though he knew she was powerful, he didn't believe for a second that she'd be able to hold off something as huge as a T-Rex. In one swift movement, Train grabbed the girl in his arms and jumped in the air, landing several feet away, inches before the foot fell on top of them.
"Whew!" Train said as he stood and wiped his brow. "You okay, kid?"
The girl narrowed her eyes at him. "I didn't ask for your help."
Train blinked down at the girl and chuckled uncomfortably at the look she was giving him. "Boy, you sure have changed…"
"Eve!"
Train turned to the male sweeper as he ran over to them and smiled. "Has my debt been repaid yet?"
Sven sighed in relief, catching his breath. "You've saved her twice now. I think I'm in debt to you."
The Black Cat laughed, but before he could say anymore, he saw Sven pull Eve away quickly as he felt someone else picking him up and flying him into the air. He was saved just in time from the dinosaur's tail as he landed far from Flora. Train looked up to see a furious and frightened Creed staring down at him.
"WHAT THE HELL WERE YOU THINKING?! YOU COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED!"
Creed's voice matched the volume of Flora's roar as he yelled at the brunette. Train actually shrunk away from his lover and felt his heart sink below his feet at the look he was getting. Creed's eyes were wide, with tears filled in them. Panic, fear, worry and anger, all mixed into one as he stared regretfully into glassy, crystal eyes.
"I-I was—"
He was cut off as Creed pulled him close and buried his head into his shoulder. Train felt tears soaking his shirt as Creed began to weep quietly and hold him tight, ignoring the monster storming away from them. Train frowned deeply and wrapped his arms around Creed's back, petting his hair soothingly.
"What the hell, Train?! I know you feel bad about having anything to do with that thing, but that does not mean you can do something so stupid!"
Train felt like crying himself as Creed held him even closer and sobbed a harder.
"Shhh, my Stallion, it's okay… I really truly am sorry…"
"You almost died!"
Train held him as tight as he could, trying to show him he was still there. "But I'm fine, Creed. I'm so sorry… I wasn't thinking. I-I let guilt take over for a second and forgot what that would do to you." His voice was a sorrowful whisper as he spoke and pressed his face against Creed's head. "I just… didn't want a little girl to be killed over something I might have been able to stop…"
Creed pulled back and shook Train violently. "You couldn't have stopped this! Stop feeling guilty over the smallest things! Doctor wouldn't let anyonesee what he was working on and you had no reason to believe it'd be something like this!" He yelled as he pointed towards the beast as she roared again and knocked over a pillar. "Even if you had to save her, whydidn't you just use your Tao power to push the bio-girl away?! You didn't have to run under the foot yourself!"
Train frowned even deeper as he gazed into Creed's glossy eyes. "I-I didn't think about that…"
Creed's lip quivered and he pulled Train as close as he could again, sobbing uncontrollably. "Stupid, stupid, stupid! You're so stupid, Train!"
Train continued to pet Creed's head and ran his fingers up and down his spine. He knew how much he enjoyed that, and he was trying as hard as he could to calm his lover.
"I know, Creed, I know. I'm an idiot… That's why I need you, to stop me from doing such stupid things."
"But you still did it! I know it's in your nature, but don'tever do anything like that again! Understand?!"
Train nodded and buried his face deeper in the silver locks. The last time he felt this guilty was when Creed almost died for him. How could I put him through something like this again? I'm such an idiot…
Creed pulled back slowly, after calming down and breathed deeply. Train kissed his forehead gently and caressed his cheek. Looking deeply into his eyes, Train spoke it a sincere tone and smiled regretfully.
"I'm sorry, Creed. I won't do something like that again." He wiped a tear that had fallen from his lover's eye. "You can punch me if you want."
Creed smiled as best he could and shook his head. "As tempting as that sounds, no. I do understand that's just who you are, and I accept it. Just… please… don't do anything like that again, unless I'm right there next to you."
Train nodded again and ran his fingers through the silver hair he adored. A roar broke them both from their stupor as they looked back over at Flora.
"We can't let her get away, can we? That would cause too many complications."
Creed nodded after finally pulling himself together. "No, we can't let her leave Freesia's influence. For one thing, she may wind up leading Chronos to us, and for another—"
"—We can't lose Freesia's support. Gotcha. But… How do we stop her?"
Creed pointed to the toes. "Right there…"
Train followed his finger and smiled. "That's perfect, hitting the sensitive nerves on her toes will knock her down."
The swordsman nodded proudly. "Exactly. If we can attack those, she'll be down for the count, and Freesia will still have her precious baby."
"And we'll still have our precious money, right?" Train asked as he smiled knowingly.
Creed smiled back and nodded. Train looked over at Flora, who was being attacked by Sven, Eve and the woman they were with. It was pointless, as they had no way of taking her out. It really looked like they were just trying to distract her enough to let the panicking crowd escape. Train took his tie off and unbuttoned the top buttons on his shirt. He shoved the tie in his pocket, since he knew Creed wouldn't want him to lose it.
Creed had done the same thing, taking the extra couple seconds to fold it. Then, he smiled confidently. "All right, Kitten, let's do this."
"You don't need to tell me twice."
At the same time, both partners ran at the beast, circling her in opposite directions. Train jumped in front of Eve and shot several rounds around one toe, earning a painful cry from the gigantic monster. He smiled back at the girl, who was fuming at him, since he jumped right in the way of her shot.
"I think you should let the adults handle thisYou don't know what you're up against."
Eve glared at the man, "I don't need your help."
Train bent down and patted her on the head, which seemed to infuriate the girl further. Hearing Flora roar behind him again and make some sort of movement, he shot another toe and blew the smoke from his gun. Eve stared at him in shock and worry.
"Are you going to kill her?"
The Black Cat smiled at her again and ruffled her hair, only making her angrier and angrier as she glared harder.
"Not to worry your blond, little head, princess. We have reasons for not killing her."
He looked over at Creed, ignoring Eve's growls in favor of checking on his Stallion, who had just taken out a toe of his own. Creed was forced to dodge, however, avoiding a bullet aimed by Sven.
"Watch were you're shooting that thing!"
Sven glared at him. "Don't get in the way of my bullets, then!"
Creed narrowed his eyes and glowered at the sweeper. "It's not like shooting her hind will do any good. Her skin's too thick."
"I know that! What the hell else am I supposed to do?!"
They shot daggers at each other once more, before both of them were forced to move as Flora swung around and slashed her tail through the air. Creed crouched down and shot fiery eyes at Sven's back, who was once again attacking the dinosaur. What an incompetent moron… Well, what else should I expect from him? He's just like everyone else. Pure trash.
He was tempted to stab the man right there, so he wouldn't get any closer to Train. He noticed his beloved had taken a sort of liking to the eye patched man, which only made Creed despise him more. I can't kill him here. Even if I blamed it on Flora, Train would know. I'm the only one with a sword and he'd see the stab wound.He had to force that thought aside. The last thing he wanted was another lie to his Cat. Killing him will be a last resort…
The pale Taoist jumped in front of Sven again, making sure to send him another dirty look before taking out the two remaining toes on that foot with a quick slash and happy laugh. He spirited to the side and away from Flora as she collapsed on one knee. Creed didn't even bother to see if Sven made it out okay and instead looked over to where Train was.
The swordsman sighed in relief as he saw his beloved take out the other toes on the opposite foot and jumped away before the beast could fall on them. Eve had leapt in the air somewhere, but Creed paid no attention to that, since his eyes were following Train. He growled as he saw Train pick up the half naked woman in his arms and jump into the air, saving her from Flora's falling head. As the T-Rex roared in pain and made a loud crash to the floor, bits and pieces of marble flew in the air as dust settled around them.
Creed coughed a couple times then sliced his Imagine blade through the air to wash the smoke away. He looked around for Train and sighed again as he saw his lover's hand pushing the dust from his face. He heard Sven's sputters and coughs as he crawled out from the rubble and turned another deadly glare to him.
"Stay away from Train if you know what's good for you…"
Creed reveled in the frightened and angry look Sven gave him and made his way over to Train as he sent the woman down. He narrowed his eyes as he got closer and gritted his teeth in anger. Another witch… Why are they drawn to him?! He stood beside Train, grasping his arm tightly and sent the confused woman a dirty look.
"Eve!" Sven called out again as he looked around for his young companion.
"I'm up here, Sven."
All eyes turned up to see Eve flying in the air, angel wings sprouting out of her back. Sven stared wide eyed as the girl lowered herself next to him and looked up innocently at the shocked face. Train blinked as he eyed the girl, curiously.
"So that's what a real angel looks like," Train hinted at one of Creed's nicknames for him.
Creed smiled at his Feline and whispered in his ear, "No one could ever be more angelic than you."
Train looked at Creed and smiled at his compliment.
Everyone's attention was switched once more as the sound of sirens moved closer to them. Train and Creed looked at each other worried, before Creed pulled out a cell phone and called Echidna.
"Rinslet, you all right?"
Train looked over to Sven and Eve, then at the woman next to him as she brushed herself off.
"Peachy… my dress has been ruined…"
Train narrowed his eyes at her. "Shouldn't you be a little more grateful to your savior?"
She snubbed him as she continued flattening her dress. "I would be, if you didn't ruin my dress."
"It barely covers anything, anyway! What's the big deal?"
She turned her head away offended. "It's not like you're leaving much to the imagination with a torn suit and opened shirt."
Train looked down at himself and started to sweat. His sleeves were ripped and his pants were dusty and dirty. The shirt he opened had been ripped further down, almost uncovering his entire stomach. He glanced at Creed as he spoke into his phone and noticed he was in not better shape. Maybe he won't notice… And if he does, he won't get angry since he's in the same shape.
Rinslet walked over to Sven and Eve, bending down to Eve's height and brushing her hair out, much to the girl's disapproval. Train snickered as the older woman pulled her in a sisterly hug. Then he heard Creed click is phone shut and grab Train's hand.
"She's opening the portal right now for us. It'll be in the same spot we came in at, so we need to leave now, before the cops arrive. Chronos may not be far behind them, after they hear what happened."
Train nodded immediately. As much as he wanted to attack Chronos, he needed to listen to Creed. The last time he didn't, his lover nearly died. Plus, he wanted to make it up to him for nearly giving him a heart attack now.
Creed pulled him away quickly, in hopes that the group standing there wouldn't notice. However, much to Creed's dismay, Sven called over to Train.
"Hey! Where're you going? Don't you want to explain anything to the cops?"
Train merely smiled and gave a two finger salute. "Sorry, buddy, but we gotta bolt. Complicated matters."
Creed saw the confused look on Sven's face as they left into the back and sent another warning look. Whether the man saw it or not didn't matter. He'd make sure he never saw Train again. They reached where they first met Freesia and saw the portal Echidna opened for them. Guiding Train his hand, Creed steeped through the black hole and entered their mansion once more.
Train was laying on the couch in the living room, still wearing his battered suit. It was dark outside now and ever since they returned to the mansion, he was laying on that couch, barely watching the television. He couldn't really concentrate on much. Creed seemed depressed the moment they steeped through the other side of the portal. He had gone upstairs to their room to change and shower, while Train was too tired to do anything else other than take his torn jacket and shoes off and collapse on the comfy leather.
He wasn't really sure what had made Creed so upset, but he was insistent on taking a shower first, so Train allowed him. He would tell the former Chronos Number when he came back down. That is, if Train was able to stay awake long enough. He was very tired and as much as he wanted to know what was on Creed's mind, he wasn't sure his body would allow his mind to stay active.
As he flipped through the channels, he sighed. What could be wrong? It's not like anything bad happened tonight. Okay, dinosaur going on a rampage is bad, but not really something to get depressed about. He yawned then growled at his sleepiness. I hope he gets down here quick. He said he'd be right back.
On cue, he heard footsteps behind him, then felt one end of the couch sinking slightly. Train blinked as he saw a hand in front of his face, holding a glass of milk out for him. He took the glass and looked down to see Creed sitting there, hugging his legs to his chest and resting his chin on his knees. He didn't look at Train, but towards the TV, even though Train knew he wasn't paying attention. Before the Black Cat could question what was wrong, Creed spoke in a quiet voice.
"Are you… mad at me?"
Train was taken aback by the question. "What?"
Creed sighed and looked to the ground. "Are you mad at me?"
The gunman blinked and put his milk down on the coffee table. "Why would I be mad at you?"
There was a pause and dead silence, save for the TV for a minute, before Creed let out another tired sigh and spoke in a quiet voice, "Tonight was supposed to be our first date, our first time out alone together, and everything was ruined."
He picked his hand up and began to count things off on his finger. "First, those two whores flirted with you," Train had to stifle his laughter at Creed's choice of words, "Second, I was unsuccessful in getting you something as simple as a drink. Third, that old bat brings out a Tyrannosaurus Rex, which breaks loose and destroys the party."
Train waited a little as Creed breathed deeply again. "That's what you're upset about?"
Creed nodded and hugged his knees closer. "I could have figured out what Doctor was making. I didn't because I didn't think it was worth it. Honestly, I didn't care what it was, so long as Freesia gave us the money we needed." He buried his face in his knees, "My greed and carelessness almost got you killed."
Train noticed his body was starting to shake and instantly sat up and wrapped his arms around his partner, holding him closer. Creed turned himself and clung to Train's ripped shirt desperately, crying for the second time that day.
"It's my fault the day was ruined. It's my fault you almost died… I even yelled at you!" He shook violently as he grasp Train tighter. "I got your suit ruined, and mine and could have gotten us both caught by Chronos. I'm so sorry, Train…"
Train sighed and moved his fingers along Creed's spine. "How is any of this your fault? Those girls, or as you put it, whores, were a natural part of the night. It happens in this relationship all the time, so we should both be use to it by now. As for the drinks, I don't care, nor do I care about the suits as long as we'resafe. Why is that even on your list?"
He felt Creed shake again and held him tighter. "As for Flora, as you said, you had no way of knowing."
"But I could have found out!"
Train silenced him by running his fingers through his hair. "Doctor most likely wouldn't have told you and even if he did, I know you. You probably wouldn't have done anything then. As one of my faults is being too risky and not looking before I leap, yours is your greed and inability to see things like that as a big deal. You would have brushed it off as nothing, maybe even been impressed by it."
He smiled down at Creed as he looked up at him with teary eyes. "You had every right to yell at me. It's completely my fault for what I did and for making you worry. I shouldn't have been so thoughtless and realized the monster had nothing to do with me."
Creed had calmed down a bit as Train continued to caress his back soothingly. "But the entire day was ruined."
"What about that dance? Didn't you enjoy that?" Creed blinked at Train as he spoke, "I never thought I would like doing anything like dancing until tonight. I still don't think I would, if it wasn't with you." He smiled and caressed Creed's cheek, "When we were out there, holding each other and matching our movements, it felt like we were showing everyone how we belonged together. How perfectly we're matched and how well we know each other. It was showing the world how strong our love is and how no one can be better paired for us than each other."
Creed cheered up at Train's statement, though he still sounded sad as he spoke, "But, other than that, we couldn't even have one normal date together…"
Train laughed, "Don't shoot for perfection. Do you honestly think a couple of guys like us ever could? We have a weird day to day life as it is. Having a normal day would just be… weird." Train thumbed his chin softly. "I think it went just as it was supposed to. No matter how much you fight it, we're not the type to ever have a normal lovers relationship and frankly, I wouldn't have it any other way. Wouldn't that take the fun out of us being lovers if we were like everyone else?"
Creed sniffed one last time before smiling into bright golden eyes. "So… You're not mad?"
Train grabbed his chin and kissed him reassuringly. He pulled back slightly and smiled deeply. "Not in the least. I still feel terrible about scaring you half to death."
The swordsman laughed, "Well, you should. When I first saw you run under that foot, I froze. When I saw you appear on the other side, I collapsed to the floor in relief. I was barely able to pull myself together to save you the second time."
Train chuckled wearily, "Actually, I think this is the forth time you've saved my life…"
"It's nice that you're keeping track," Creed said as he rest his cheek against Train's chest.
Train held him close and laid back down with Creed laying on his chest. His fingers slid up his flower's shirt and continued to move up and down his spine as Creed took hold of his other hand hanging off the couch and closed his eyes. The brunette turned the TV and lights off, closing his eyes as well. Too tired and too comfortable to move, the lovers fell asleep right there, in the warmth of each other's embrace.
Again, sorry for the delay. I want to thank all my patience readers for putting up with my too long of absence. When I started this story, I didn't intend for that to happen. Hope you enjoyed this