Something was different.
He couldn't decided when exactly things had become different. Maybe it was the way they fought Fei Wong Reed, more a coordinated dance than two warriors fighting. Maybe it was Kugogane's crooked smile when Fai paid for an artificial arm with what remained of his magic. Maybe it was back in Tokyo, when Kurogane gave up blood and freedom without a moment's hesitation.
There were still fights and anger and chasing, but Fai's laughter was different - musical and unrestrained. And Kurogane didn't chase very hard. Syaoran had even caught him smiling -- once.
This time they'd landed in a place called Karuizawa, with a bright sun and green fields and more than a few Inns tucked back between the trees. It had made it easy to find both work and lodging. There was an open window above the sink where he was washing dishes, his view of the Inn's laundry lines unobstructed, the flat white sheets drying in the summer breeze. He caught glimpses of Fai, dressed in a t-shirt and jeans, pinning up their freshly washed clothes in the spaces between the sheets.
A shadow stretched across the lawn and Syaoran stiffened for a moment before he recognized the tall form moving between the blowing sheets. He watched as the figure moved closer to Fai. He could see the way Fai's hands pause on the line, the way his head tilted, as if listening. And saw the small, brilliant smile light up his features as strong arms slipped around his waist.
Something pulled hard and deep in Syaoran's chest as he watched a dark head bend over a pale shoulder. His eyes hungered for the way Fai leaned into Kurogane and tipped back his head and laughed at the murmur against his temple. He hungered for the way a pale hand rested against a dark cheek, the way strong arms grew tighter as a gentle kiss grew deep.
The memory of another face, another burst of joyful laughter stabbed at Syaoran's chest. "Sakura," he murmured, the pain remaining even as his gaze focused on the couple who were embracing between the sheets. Gradually, the pain receded to a familiar ache. He dropped his gaze and returned to his dishes. But his smile was fond and knowing.
Something was different indeed.