redshiftlogs | [Closed] Ain't nothing normal when it comes to you and me.

Entry tags:

[Closed] Ain't nothing normal when it comes to you and me.

Who: Takeshi Yamamoto and Hayato Gokudera
What: Yamamoto is out to show a certain bomber how much he cares and has set up their first official date since they got things a little backward ~
When: Late July, after Starscream disables Gokudera's collar
Where: The building the boys have decided on as the Vongola base/training room
Warnings: Lots of love, maybe some kisses, will update or move off comm if it is anything more.

Yamamoto has never had a first date, so yes, he wants one. It's the logical, well first step before heated make outs on stretchers in the Med Bay. But that's okay, they can make it the second step; they just got a little backward. Though he is not complaining, their first day together was more amazing than even the baseball player expected. And, he has treasured every day since, filing every moment away like precious gold in his memories.

He has been a bartering fool this last month, gathering everything he felt he needed to make this night perfect for Hayato. They found the place they want to turn into a base for the Vongola. While it still needs some cleaning done, Yamamoto has taken the upper level and made it spotless. It was no easy task, but it was worth every moment of work he put in. Every step shows only a portion of what he feels in his heart, he could do so much more than this and not see it as enough.

In one corner stands a blanket draped present, it is not easy to tell what is under it only because Yamamoto put extra work into hiding the shape. He hopes he got it right that Hayato loves it. It is partially a selfish gift as he wants to be here when his boyfriend uses it. He busies himself, setting candles up, careful to keep them close enough without risking setting fire to the padding, blankets, and pillows he set up for them to relax on. He does his best to arrange the food he was able to get into a sort of picnic there on the blankets.

By the time he has set it all up, he is confident the bomber has gotten his note with the full suit he had bartered just for today for him. He barely has time to dash to shower and get back to the base. He can feel butterflies in his stomach as he fusses with this detail or that, moving things here and there. It needs to be perfect.

Crap his tie!

He dashes to his bag, rummaging till he finds the tie he at least gets it looped over his neck. In his full Vongola suit, he looks down, "Crap; I forgot to finish buttoning." Then he sees a candle he thinks will look better somewhere else. So, of course, he moves it, his hands are shaking, and he stops, laughing at himself. "I'm so nervous." He mumbles to himself, trying again now to finish his buttons and get his tie done before Hayato is here. His eyes constantly darting the room to make sure it is perfect. He has gone with colors he sees Hayato wear, right down to the colors of the candles, the foods he chose. Every decision was one he made based on what he thinks the bomber will like.

It's the same reason he went with suits, Hayato has impressed on him the need to wear it properly.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

Takeshi is more than welcome to overwhelm him with love, to help surround his worries and wash them away. Gokudera knows and understands, and he isn't planning on leaving just because of something he's never had, no matter how scary it is to open his heart and give it to someone. Despite the pain he's feeling at accepting the loss, he can heal faster. Time helps, and he needs to stop blaming himself. It's not his fault that Percy left. Aching over the loss won't bring him back, and even if it did, his heart is Takeshi's. Everything he has he wants to give to Takeshi. The need and want to hide is unnecessary, but it's reflexive, and so long as the swordsman doesn't take offense to the bomber trying to protect himself, their relationship can grow. He needs someone like Takeshi to see through him, to reveal to him that he isn't as damaged as he feels, as he views himself.

If Takeshi left him, it would be to return to another silver-haired bomber. They can't keep alone from each other, and he wouldn't be well being on Anchor without Takeshi.

"You're right." Gokudera wouldn't ask for any show of affection like this. He certainly didn't expect it. Instead, he'd probably set the scene himself and focus on more tactile comforts. Fabrics, dark and warm, soft satin and silk that would make his skin seem to glow by comparison. "I'd rather give..." Offer himself up until there's nothing left. He may not be entirely selfless, but he is a doting, attentive lover. Gokudera will see to every need met if he sets up a date for Takeshi. But then... it may not just be a date. For him, there's always some motive. It's part of why he thought that there would be something to come from this. What is the baseball idiot's aim, he wonders.

The fact that Gokudera has been cared for, protected, felt love is something he would hope Takeshi would be proud of. The other boy has always been invested in his well-being... how he works with others, how he pushes and attracts attention. Maybe because Takeshi has been very good at getting attention, naturally a very charming and charismatic person, while Gokudera was his foil. Opposites attract, and they both have similarities that help bind them. He doesn't want to wound, knows that Takeshi is strong.

He won't take the feelings, Gokudera's heart, and hurt him, break it, or turn his words into weapons. Takeshi is too kind. He'd do anything for him? Gokudera blinks at him, looking a bit stunned by those words and the clear conviction behind them.

"Bigger?" It doesn't look like Takeshi packed a feast for them, so what is he talking about?

"It- wha-?!" Obviously not today, but then to leave off and make it seem like it may happen eventually sets Gokudera's cheeks scarlet before there is a hand grabbing him. He jerks up at the touch as if jumping away, getting closer. He narrows his eyes and tips his chin down. "Oh, is that why you got it for me?" Doesn't he know that the suit makes all of him look fantastic?

"Get back here you-" He takes a half step back, the blade making him tense. To pull something like that out, to light it up so, it's thrilling. A shiver runs down the silver-haired boy's spine and he feels his breath catch.

"Don't say things like that!" He's not sure if he's angry at Takeshi, or just the thought of him dying in order for him to be taken away. Of course no one could kill him, but... he's seen scars, knows that there are attempts. "I won't even let anything like that happen! Put... put that away. No one's taking anyone anywhere..." On a date, that is such a bold statement. It means a lot, of course, but Gokudera is not tempted to move any closer so long as that weapon is out. His dynamite is still hidden, fire in his eyes.

"Except for you. Taking me on a date." He points to the ground they are standing on, cocks his hip to the side, and places his free hand on it.

Hayato could leave, Yamamoto would just follow without a second thought. His loyalty works that way. Not that he worries the other will leave, more he does not want to let him rip into pieces to heal all the wounds at once. It's better to let the other heal as he needs to and for Yamamoto to be there. He'll prod when he has to, but for now, he'll just be happy that Hayato opened up. He gave another piece of himself to Yamamoto to care for. He takes offense rarely as it is; sure, if he does not like something or thinks the other is wrong, he is going to tell him. But, he is not going to be offended, growing is all they can do from here. It's what everything they go through is meant to do. The bomber need not worry that Yamamoto thinks any of his past lovers, boyfriends, could take his heart away. Maybe it's his natural confidence, but more likely is the way the bomber shows his love; even if he does not realize he does it, that leaves no doubt for the swordsman.

Another silver-haired bomber, no, his silver-haired bomber. Worlds can be as screwy as they want; he has that constant. Anchor is their home, for now, Yamamoto is positive this time, he'll be here if they leave, it will be together.

"You could; I wouldn't mind." It would be kind of cute he thinks if Hayato were to work up and ask him for a date or anything. Other than to not do idiotic things and to wear his suit correctly when dealing with mafia business. "Give?" Yamamoto would be honestly surprised if Hayato did any of that, he does not expect it, he would not complain he'd probably burst with happiness from any gesture. Nor is his aim here tonight to get his boyfriend out of that suit, not that he is going to say no to activities heading in that direction. He would not say no tonight or any other night; it just wasn't where his head was when he planned this. His intentions or motives as they are were a little purer; he wants to make Hayato happy and listen to him play the piano. He just wants to spend time with him. Yes, he eats his meals with Hayato, they are together every night before sleep, and every moment he has to spare. But, this is different, it's a focused, intentional show of his want to spend time.

Of course, he does; he is and has been invested in the bomber's well-being. Even before he realized just how deeply invested, he was. He wants everyone he knows to be cared for, protected, and happy. But, yes, there has always been a part that has wanted that more for Hayato than anyone else. They balance each other in a way no one else could; they pull' they push, but at the same time they bring the best out in each other. Never would he use anything Hayato trusts him with to hurt him; he is right. He is glad Hayato got to open up, but he still regrets the tears he caused, even if he has been told they weren't his fault. That stunned look is met with that confident smile. After all, he can be a little intense when he is focused, and Hayato has all of his resolve.

"You'll see..." He is not giving it away, and he is undoubtedly hoping it goes over better than some of his other gestures.

"You never know, I'm impulsive, remember." He said, not today, it does not mean he would not one day. He has vowed to spend his life with Hayato, what would be so strange about asking him to marry him someday? Yamamoto wonders if it's because they are both guys, but he figures that should not be a problem if they ever decide to do that. Then again, maybe he just flustered him, by the beautiful scarlet cheeks Yamamoto has to grin, perhaps that's precisely it. "Yup!" No, he got it because he knows Hayato appreciates dressing well, and that serious situation requires them to be dressed up, so he just wanted to show his intent. It is an excellent bonus that every inch of his boyfriend looks more than fantastic in that suit. It is also distracting; if he lets himself focus too much on just how good it looks, he will derail himself before he has given Hayato his gift.

"Too late, I can't take back a vow made on my sword." The flames die, the blade returns to bamboo, and he sets it aside. He flashes a broad grin in response to those fiery green eyes; forgive him, but even when he looks like he may fling dynamite at him, Yamamoto feels like a magnet is drawing him to the bomber.

Then there are cocked hips, hands, and he is too damn cute for Yamamoto to stand any more "You're too cute, I can't take it." He reaches out, drawing Hayato to him, he catches the bomber's chin between forefinger and thumb "I can say it because you'd never let me die, we'll keep each other safe, so don't worry." Then he kisses him, starting soft and slow, just showing his love.

That gentle way that Takeshi supports and lets Gokudera heal himself means more than he can express. He's not being pressured. There are no hard questions, just ones that invite, and then there is acceptance. Gokudera is loyal in his own ways, and after the other has confessed to him, shown how he can protect his heart... he wouldn't dream of giving it to anyone else. It's a wonder he's opened up at all, but then... there's always been a certain level of understanding. There are no pressures on Anchor similar to Amoi. Gokudera doesn't need to be with anyone.

But he wants to be with Takeshi. He trusts him, is comforted by him, and wants to offer the same kind of support and affection. If he leaves Takeshi here and goes back to Namimori, he'll have his baseball idiot, and there is the same kind of faith. No matter what is going on, if Amoi and Anchor seem little more than a dream, he'll work with Takeshi. They'll be stronger no matter what, so long as they can work together.

"You know... like a gesture as well..." Gokudera says awkwardly, uncertain how he'd ever take the other Guardian on a date. He's never done something like take someone out. Really, just being around him is enough. He wouldn't be sure what his motive would be, and still thinks that the baseball idiot has one. Surely there's something he wants...

Gokudera seems uncertain, eyebrows furrowing because... just what is being kept from him? Something good, he guesses.

"I'm not ready for anything like that!" They aren't even adults yet! Thinking of things like marriage, he'd been kidding! Here Takeshi is, probably certain it will happen at some point. It's... not like Gokudera would be unhappy, but just that... in the mafia, it may not be so good for relations concerning allied families. It would look bad on the Vongola.

"Tch-! So you're not gonna get closer so I can return the favor?" Selfish is what that is. What if he wants to grab Takeshi's ass right back, huh? But noooo, he's making some showy vow, and the bomber is not getting closer because that intensity (no matter the circumstances), is intimidating. "If you leave, just," Gokudera taps at his temple, snaps his fingers, then moves them away, like he's indicating a thought fluttering away. "Like that, it won't be something anything can stop!" Don't be ridiculous, baseball idiot.'

"Who's worried," He grumbles as he's brought in closer, approaching with ease and seeming a bit disgruntled at the comment about him being cute. The other moving to kiss him has Gokudera watching his lips, eyes slowly shutting as he feels the distance close. And just like that, that flame to fight is engulfed and replaced by something passionate and subtle. It's a heat that's small and intense, and Gokudera likes intensity. He craves something a little more carnal, and so reaches to tug at Takeshi's tie while deepening the kiss.

He will always love Hayato this way; he also knows beyond a shadow of a doubt the bomber feels the same. He also does not doubt that they will still work together; it's impossible to be any other way. From the day they started what Yamamoto thought was a game of mafia, it was inevitable that he end up here. Fate if one wants to give it a term, some people are just meant to be partners in life. And these two Guardians fit the bill. Yamamoto knows that there is nothing here that forces them to be together. Hayato said yes to him because he wants him if the bomber were wondering that still goes down as the most significant moment of his life. Even over every game-winning home run, he has ever made.

"Oh, I'd like that, whatever you wanted to do because I'd be doing it with you." He grins brightly; of course, if all Hayato wants is to spend time with him, that is enough to. He does not need gestures or dates; he just needs his boyfriend, and he has that. Hayato is in for a surprise then, unless he considers listening to him playing the piano as being up to something; that's the most prominent request Yamamoto plans to make of him tonight.

He starts chuckling, Hayato is so damn cute when he is flustered. Of course, they aren't ready for that "I think I've got to become legal first; then I'd have to tell my old man. And we need to tell Tsuna. Would I have to ask Bianchi for her permission, since she's your sister?" All Hayato has to do is look and see the cheeky smile; he is teasing, now. But yes, Hayato is right, he is thinking someday, he'd like to do that when they are older. He does not believe Tsuna would let it be an issue; all he would want would be for his friends to be happy.

"Nope, that would make it too easy." Though, if he wants to grab the baseball player's ass, he is more than welcome to. Yamamoto is not going to stop him; after all, his boyfriend isn't the only one who looks damn good in a suit. The ball player doesn't look too shabby himself, and there is always that confidence to him. Yes, he does not realize quite how intimidating he can be when he is locked in that way. "I won't know until I try." He is not going to change his mind; he is going to do everything humanly possible not to disappear that way.

"You are, but it's okay." Then it all goes away; there is a silver-haired storm in his arms. Oh wait, that is a silver-haired storm grabbing his tie, deepening the kiss. The Rain puts up no resistance, his arms going to his boyfriend's waist to pull him closer. Letting that kiss go deeper still, his response immediately to the energy from the other's lips. Oh, he was trying not to get sidetracked this way, but Hayato is too much to resist, and he is not upset as he loses himself like that, thinking of those lips instead of his well-laid plan.

Then his instincts save him, so to speak, he steps back, pulling Hayato with him intending to find something to lean against so he can focus on having his boyfriend as close as possible. Then he bumps into the blanket coated item, and it makes a musical sound from the jarring. Yamamoto does not mean to, but he laughs in the kiss; it looks like he is busted, and he pulls back, smiling wide at Hayato.

"I think you found something big."

It's almost too perfect, the timing and that they were brought together. Gokudera had wanted to go home to Namimori, but not if that means leaving the baseball idiot on his own. He's not sure how he left, or even if his will was strong enough. One minute he was going to bed with Linneus after another hard day of training, working out all of his anger, and the next... Anchor, and the same baseball idiot he's always wanted. He's so lucky...

That's what he was going to say! Or rather, Takeshi pulled those words right out of him, and Gokudera blushes. He hadn't thought how it would sound. It's so cheesy, but true.

"I-! Stop! It's definitely not happening!" The marriage. "Stop talking about it!" Because it will lead down a whole other set of worries and he doesn't need that right now. The teasing just flusters him more, and he thinks, well... they don't have to be a certain age to be engaged. That thought just spreads the blush along his face.

Good thing kissing is an easy and rewarding way to hide how he's looking. Gokudera's got no problem kissing the breath out of Takeshi. It's not like he has any idea that the other is trying to focus on any kind of plan. It's just a candlelit meal with a nice little make-out session for the appetizer.

And then Takeshi is moving them back. Gokudera follows his lead and jerks at the unexpected noise. He hadn't noticed this blanket-covered object. "What the..." He reaches past and presses down around where Takeshi had bumped, and sure enough, he recognizes that noise.

"Did you? How? Why is there a piano?!"

It sure seems less coincidence and more meant to be, doesn't it? Yamamoto would have survived on his own; he may not be thriving as well as he is with Hayato here, though. Having the bomber has given him a reason to embrace life here on Anchor; sure, he misses his old man and home some times. But then he sees green eyes studying a book intently or a petulant scowl twisting perfect lips, and he remembers he has what he needs the most here. He isn't always going to be in his father's home; it's as good a time as any to learn to be on his own with the person he loves he figures.

Yamamoto can not help, he will let it go for tonight, but he is going to have to tease his boyfriend with this. Hayato will have to forgive him; he is too cute, Yamamoto can not say it enough. The bomber is downright irresistible, and Yamamoto is smitten and can put up no fight. "Not today. I know." Oh, that is true, lucky for Hayato, Yamamoto hasn't thought that part out since he is still just teasing. Marriage is a long way off, and he knows that. But, if he is going to be married one day, Hayato will have to accept it, it's going to be him.

Kissing is more than easy and a good way of distracting his boyfriend from teasing him because the moment Hayato's lips are on his Yamamoto forgets everything else. That is until he runs into things like pianos and gives himself away.

"I got it for you, you're really amazing and I thought you might like to be able to play whenever you want." He reaches behind him, pulls the blanket off, and reveals the gift beneath. It is nothing as grand as what the daisy darling had, but it can create the same music, and Yamamoto figured that was the most important. Those alien drove a hard bargain, but he can proudly say he got it, and that's what matters most.

He watches Hayato's face, stepping to the side so the bomber can see the piano, it's even got the proper bench to go with it. If he were the type to a nervous habit, he would be chewing his lips. As it is, he does a very him thing, reaching up to rub the side of his head as he waits, trying not to look too expectant. One thing has to be just right for Hayato, anything to make this day different, to give him a new memory one with Yamamoto in it.

He is banking all his hope on that piano. Luckily, he is persistent enough to be alright if it doesn't have the intended effect.

Edited 2020-07-24 07:56 (UTC)

If Gokudera were a more religious man, like his father raised him to be, he'd probably think Takeshi is literally a godsend. As it is, his gratitude for having him around, from being so far from home for so long makes the pull between them that much stronger. He's glad it's no one else from Namimori, or someone from another family. No one else has the same kind of charms that Takeshi does, or the persistence. Home is where the Tenth is, but Takeshi has his heart.

"Or tomorrow! Or any time soon!" A wedding on an alien planet would be illegitimate, and they couldn't have the Tenth's blessing, and now Gokudera is actively humoring the thought, which ~~amuses~~ irritates him more. If he can't marry Takeshi in his future, he won't marry at all.

"How did you get it?" Gokudera asks, softly stunned. He listens and admires the instrument, steps right up to it, and sets the two middle fingers of his right hand on the keys. He doesn't press, just strokes against them and looks over it. This is no grand piano, but it certainly isn't a keyboard. And...

He presses those fingers down to realize it's tuned.

And it's his? Gokudera looks up at Takeshi, eyes still wide. "I-I'm pretty rusty," he says, then looks back down, still full of disbelief. His chest is tight, but he's not upset. It's just... a very emotional day, and he's giving himself a little to his doubts.

That's all he wants, Hayato's heart, as long as the bomber loves him he wants for nothing else. They both intend to stay at Tsuna's side for their reasons. After all, for Yamamoto, he would not be here to love Hayato if not for Tsuna, he will always be Yamamoto's friend, important to him. But, he will never hold the swordsman the way Hayato does.

Oh, wait, he said not any time soon, but that means, someday, if when Yamamoto asks him seriously, he'd say yes, right? At least to the baseball player's way of thinking. If they never leave here, then here is where he would ask, but if he is serious about it, he'd want it to be at home with his old man, Tsuna, and all their friends so he can wait. As long as Hayato is his, he can tease, make his boyfriend blush and be happy in the fact that someday he'll marry this young man. Who knew he even wanted something like that, funny how a joke can get a person thinking. "But someday."

"I bartered on the Daisy Darling." Yamamoto watches the admiration when he touches the piano, he so desperately just wants Hayato to be happy, to love his gift. Yes, it is all his, no one can take it away, Yamamoto worked hard to make sure it was something he could keep as long as he wants.

No, he did not tune it himself; he had to get help, and of course, getting it here without running into Hayato around Anchor was easier said than done, but the look as he touches those keys, it is worth anything to make Hayato happy.

"I heard you play; I think you're amazing." He may think he is rusty, he may even be rusty, but his boyfriend believes his music is beautiful and wants to give him the freedom to create it without the world intruding (as he is sure it has time and again the same way it interrupts baseball for him.) Yamamoto steps up behind Hayato, wrapping his arms around his waist he rests his hands against the stomach of the other, leans in and kisses his cheek with a smile.

"It's for you to enjoy, that's all that matters. Just let me listen sometimes?"

He wonders if Takeshi knows how he feels about the piano, about why he's attached to it. The bomber has never shared anything so private with the Rain Guardian, or even the Tenth. The Ninth knows. He's the one that scraped Gokudera up off the streets, after the Grigo had tried to use him, tried to make him do something horrible. He doesn't know if he wants to play, but he can't help himself.

It's just a very warm reminder of the kind of love he'd felt being taken in, of his mother, of that man and his son who needed his help. And now... every time he touches keys, he feels swept up. Even when that note is gone and his finger has left, he feels drawn to it.

"I'm not... but..." He reaches out, spreads his fingers and plays a minor chord. Playing piano is going to become something he will see himself doing regularly. Gokudera will feel better, building something when he is not consumed with destructive thoughts. "If it's here..." And no one else is playing it. "Of course," There's something timid in the way he's admiring this gift.

Gokudera relaxes all the more, hums his comfort on the hands resting on his stomach, then tips his head back. "Do you want me to play now?" He says softly, turns his head, and sweeps his lips against the other boy's jaw, closing his eyes. Slender fingers go through the scale, just stretching and sliding, and he feels eager to play, to re-familiarize himself.

If he is asked all the swordsman will say is he wanted to listen to Hayato play; he does not know the bomber's full backstory, yet, he will see someday when Hayato tells him. Anything the does know from hearing any part of a story secondhand are ones he will leave aside. Their stories from their past are part of who they are, but they'll share those when it is time.

Warm is good, warm is what he was going for. He wants to watch the person he loves to get swept away, to enjoy themselves. "You are, to me." Yamamoto watches those fingers, the way they move. There is a hidden grace in them to the swordsman's eyes; he knows how destructive they can be. He knows how arousing they can be. Yet when they are touching those Keys, they seem almost magical to him.

If Yamamoto finds him here, regularly playing, it will mean more than he'll ever have the words to express. He wants this so badly for Hayato, something tangible, relaxing that is the bomber's alone "It's yours, of course, it will be here." In truth, he is considering fixing the rest of the upper area above the training room below into a hideaway for them. Who says they always have to go back to the Quad; considering how little privacy it offers. It's peaceful not to hear others walking by outside. To know that it's just them here in the building, they are well and truly alone. He urges gently, reminding Hayato he does not have to be timid; this is for him; there is nothing expected in return except that he enjoys the gift to his heart's content. Even if he never played in front of Yamamoto again, it is still his, and the swordsman would be happy to have made him happy.

Yamamoto can not help turning his head into those lips which graze his jaw, fingers curling against his boyfriend's stomach as for a moment he just enjoys the way he feels in his arms. He could hold him every day, all day, and he is not sure he would be satisfied. Of course, that is impossible, they can't walk around literally attached at the hip, but for a moment, he indulges himself, "Please, would you?"

Gokudera has shared some of his past with the Tenth, mostly everything regarding Bianchi, since she lives with him and it would only be fair to let his boss know what he's getting into. As for circumstances regarding his mother, his homelessness, and the years before the Vongola, those are in the dark. Reborn may know because the Ninth knows, but he's hopeful that his dark past, the mafia life he'd had in his childhood is not going to impact the future he has. On Anchor he is safe. With Takeshi he is safe, and has no doubts.

But he's always considering the mafia. Just because they're on an alien planet doesn't mean he will stop being the Tenth generation boss' right-hand man and Vongola Storm Guardian.

That focus could be detrimental, but for now, it's easier to pay attention to what he has. Their comforts and security are paramount, and he would never leave Takeshi. Wherever his boss is, he has faith time has stopped in that universe. Years to him are probably only the smallest seconds.

If this is a dream, he'll make it into a very good one. "Mnnn you say a lot of ridiculous things, Takeshi Yamamoto," Gokudera says, keeping up his modesty while his tone is accepting. It is a compliment, and he knows he has some skill on the piano, but he is not amazing. Maybe, he thinks with amusement, to Takeshi he is amazing in more ways than this.

"So then of course, it will need a pianist." He moves away from those arms, but not very far. Just enough to pull the bench back. There are hinges, so he wonders if he should look for sheet music... maybe eventually write his own song.

"Any requests?" The Storm asks and takes a seat, adjusts his suit and straightens his posture. There may be something lighthearted, something deep and sad an slow. There are also fairly repetitive, calming songs.

The past can not change their future; only they can, and they both seem to be set on exactly where that future is going. Together, everything else can be secondary. Hayato is what's important, the one before him now, who loves him and who Yamamoto loves deeper than he ever thought possible. If there is one constant in his life, it is that he will always be safe with Yamamoto.

It is a life they are both in now; there is no point in denying it. Even if the baseball player is determined to stay positive, keep his smile, and still play the game he loves. In the end, the family will come first for him. Because they are his friends and because in that world is where Hayato is and Yamamoto wants to stay at his side. It's not as if he could back out now as it is so that he found his heart here, it's enough to make this world worth it. If that focus becomes detrimental, he has Yamamoto to be there to keep him from going too far or to bring him back if he does.

"I do? I'm just honest." He shrugs, maybe he does say ridiculous things, but to him, they do not seem ridiculous. They are his honest feelings, opinions, observations even. Well, if the guy who sees more than he ever knows thinks a person is amazing, then they are, after all, Yamamoto has shown time, and again, there is a lot more behind that happy smile. He's reasonably astute if some times too blunt. Plus, he thought Hayato was amazing before his heart opened his eyes to why he always seemed to have them turned in that direction.

"It does..." His heart soars the moment Hayato sits down; then, he remembers something. "Wait!" he moves over to his bag. He is not sure what songs they are, but the aliens did throw in a couple of sheets of music, he has no idea what they are for, but maybe Hayato will. In his rush to get ready, he forgot to put them with the piano.

He turns back, handing the pages over "Anything.." It does not matter, happy, deep, sad, slow, repetitive; he just wants to watch Hayato play. Once he has deposited the pages, he grabs one of the pillows, comes back, dropping it by the edge of the bench. He gracefully falls into a cross-legged position so he can be close without interrupting.

Of course the past doesn't change anything, but in the wrong hands... it can be used as a weapon. The bomber is well-armed, guarded, and has Takeshi to help keep his attention. He can be safe with him, may even open up eventually, but doesn't need to. Because he knows Takeshi will love him, and Gokudera will return that a much as he can.

"Ridiculously honest, then," Gokudera says, not wanting to focus too much oh how the words warm him. They just do, and he'll happily let his feelings take over.

Gokudera jerks softly as the other boy moves over to his bag to collect sheet music. He blinks in confused endearment. Does Takeshi think he needs it? He reaches out to accept them and blinks, squints, and draws them closer. It's hard to read it well without his glasses, and they are not with this suit. He clicks his tongue in mild disappointment at himself before realizing that the song title is in a language he has never seen before.

This is... alien sheet music? Gokudera's so excited that his stomach feels like it's doing little flips. He has to take a few breaths in and calm himself before he stacks them gently, gets up, and places them within the bench. Later... he'll make music out of it.

His attention moves back to Takeshi, seated on a pillow by the bench. He reminds him of a child with all of his eagerness, and the suit... well, Gokudera's just overall very touched by this. He blushes softly, grateful that he isn't going to have to watch his elbows while he plays, but knowing that the close proximity would be nice.

"It's been a while." He stretches his fingers, spares his left hand a glance in the hopes it will be as dexterous as he needs it to be. Then, he starts some scales, testing how well tuned the instrument is, then slides his foot to one pedal. He could play anything, but without any real plan, he thinks of something that isn't too fast or complex. A skip instead of a walk, his fingers start "Sabor a Mi," and he controls the pace carefully, the bass cords taking longer, but there is no note missed. A minute and a half in, he's closing his eyes and he may hit some keys incorrectly, but it's fun.

Yamamoto will always love him; he would not have made a single move if he wasn't sure of that. There is no way he would have let himself get involved with someone who was already essential and a part of his life if he wasn't willing to give everything. When he thought it through, it just didn't seem right to make that change, to ask for more than friendship if he wasn't ready to be dedicated with all of himself, so here they are. Yamamoto is good at being a distraction; it could be his part-time job.

"That's me." He knows who he is; he is not likely to change much. Maybe get a little more serious as he gets older, some of that showing here on Anchor where they are solely responsible for themselves. There is no one to wash their clothes or look after a lot of the little things, his dad and then the girls did for him. But even though he'll grow, he is likely to stay the eager young man with the ready smile. It won't matter his age, some part of that boyish charm is bound to stick, it's too naturally him.

He watches Hayato as he looks over the music, then tucks it away. He didn't think he would need it, but he was pretty sure it wasn't in any language he knew and thought maybe he would get lucky. By the way, his boyfriend reacts, Yamamoto believes he nailed it. He wants to sit on that bench, right beside the other, but he knows he would get distracted, he is not so good at keeping his hands to himself when in close proximity that way.

Not that he is likely to remain on the pillow forever, just for now, he wants Hayato to have the freedom to enjoy this without him in the way. That's what tonight was about for Yamamoto more than anything else. He wonders still to that hand, the scars there, even the glance, but they can deal with that when Hayato is ready. For now, he lets the soft notes fill the room; he is listening. More than that, though, he is watching, awe evident in his eyes as they keep a brightness that matches his smile. When the bomber's eyes close, and he seems to lose himself, really start enjoying it, Yamamoto's heart could break into a million pieces from how much it fills up. No matter what else happened tonight, he let his love find fun, happiness, maybe even a little peace.

Gokudera could spend literally an entire day with Takeshi doing absolutely nothing other than admiring him and just enjoying his company. They've never really had mundane, close, emotional moments like what they're sharing on Anchor. He doesn't mind being distracted.

"Mnnn." Not a bad thing. Takeshi has a youthfulness to him that's more than skin deep. Even having met the ten-years older version of him, those serious, older eyes still held hope and warmth. Sure, they held deeper, darker emotions, but that's only natural for anyone in the mafia, or anyone who's experienced the kind of loss Takeshi had. Gokudera doubts he will ever grow out of his disposition. He wouldn't be Takeshi anymore if he did.

Maybe after this song, he'll readily share the bench. Gokudera's hand isn't sore or cramped, and worked relatively well. He won't bring any attention to it as he finishes the song, then opens his eyes and his posture slides back into a slouch. Looking over at Takeshi, he's searching for input.

"It sounds good," the piano, he means.

It may sound crazy, but life here is calmer, it gave them a chance to connect without the constant threat of violence and danger. The worst that has happened so far has been Kabal, and that was more Yamamoto being on edge and responding in that battle-hardened mode versus his usual calm self. The sinkhole was exciting but, at present, does not seem to be a threat to the colony, so really, they could take any day they wanted and spend it just like this.

It's nice, there is tiredness in him when they sit down to dinner, but it comes from a day's hard work and training, not training to save everyone but training from staying healthy. It is ordinary and mundane, and Yamamoto loves every moment of it. He loves that they are in a place where he can give Hayato a gift like this, and he has the true freedom to enjoy it. He is not changing; he'll always have hope, warmth, and smile in his eyes. They are a core of his character, that won't change, especially with Hayato to hold when the darkness comes to take over.

When the bomber slumps back, he'll find his boyfriend rocked forward a little, resting his chin against his hands on the end of that bench. He is still wearing that awestruck gaze and besotted smile. It's unfair how good a slouch can look in a suit or not.

"Beautiful...." He means the song and his boyfriend; to him, it sounded perfect, and there will be no changing his mind " What's it called?"

Life on Anchor has been more calm so far than his life in the Mafia, and on Amoi. There may be unique stresses to living in the colony, but there are fewer people, and he doesn't feel as regularly threatened. Whatever stresses there are on Anchor are easily handled or avoided. They wouldn't actively be threats to the Tenth, anyways, and if the Tenth were around, Gokudera would be nearby to sniff those threats out to help them be avoided or handled.

Sure, they don't have the girls to help take care of them, but Gokudera's capable of taking care of himself. He's happy to help Takeshi even in the most mundane ways. He'd been on his own in Amoi long enough to learn some basics, and developed enough domestic habits with his roommate. If anything, his stay in Amoi has made him a warmer person, more compassionate towards ~~fellow mongrels~~ others.

"What?" He blinks and blushes softly, "The- oh!" Really, Gokudera had been lost in the music. He frowns and tries to remember. There've been a lot of songs he's learned and doesn't remember where. Was it something he learned on Earth? Amoi? "I don't remember..." He's sure maybe someone else knows, but he'd be too shy to put his performance on the network.

It would be nice if Tsuna were around; it is not as if they both would not love to see him. Also, it would be nice if they could have their family here in relative peace and calm. They could have gone to the beach all of them, and no one would have gotten blown up, except Yamamoto since he can't leave Hayato alone.

They have done pretty well here; it helps that Hayato had two years' worth of experience taking care of himself on top of what he already had. It also helps, Yamamoto is a quick study and does what he can to pull his weight. Yamamoto will not say it out loud because Hayato would deny it, but he sees that change; he doesn't think it made the bomber warmer. He believes it made him acknowledge that warmth and compassion he already had that he hid under dynamite and cigarettes with a bad attitude mixed in for good measure to keep it hidden.

There is no denying he leans forward when Hayato blushes; it only makes the bomber more beautiful, and the fact he thinks so shows clear in his eyes. "You play it wonderfully; I like listening to you. The way you look when you lose yourself..." He smiles, scratching the side of his cheek, it's easy to lose him in watching Hayato when he is lost like that. Hopefully, his boyfriend won't mind him sitting in on more than one occasion.

"You don't have to stop; I'll be happy to sit here all night and listen. It's why I did all this."

The way the Vongola enjoys relative peace and quiet may be too chaotic for the colonists currently living in Anchor. He would enjoy them all together here, as if this were a vacation rather than another planet. Likely, they'd treat it as such, and there would be the usual mafia shenanigans.

Takeshi is good at being active, both socially and physically. Building relationships like he's doing is building something of a support network. Gokudera doesn't feel he'd be capable enough at that, so is fine at his current pace. If he is warm to anyone here, it's not easily won. It's always been easier to stay aloof.

Gokudera feels a little more shy with the way Yamamoto is leaning, and he has to advert his gaze. The affection is so strong, and he's listening, but hesitant.

"You wanna... sit beside me?" Gokudera asks and scoots over, patting at the bench. He's not sure how to feel about being watched, but... if it makes Takeshi happy to have front-row seats, it'd make him happier to be next to him, right?

True, the mafia shenanigans do follow the Vongola, even on vacation. In the end, Yamamoto is going to be happy; rather, they are here or not. He has the one person he wants the most, and he knows someday they will all be together again. Besides, he does have one bonus; he can be alone with Hayato a lot more than if everyone was here. By now, they'd have been interrupted by Lambo or Ryohei if they were here.

He is good at building and maintaining relationships. It is the Rain's job after all. Hayato does not have to be warm to everyone; it's the fact that the warmth is part of him that draws Yamamoto in. Especially since that warmth is now so often given to the baseball player.

The shy glance away is nearly his undoing; he wants to rise from the floor, move to the bench, and kiss Hayato till his skin is blushing for another reason entirely. Ahhhhh, he mentally stops himself, that is not what he is here for. But then, he is invited closer, and how does he say no? Why would he, he is always happiest when he is next to Hayato.

"I won't be in the way?" As he says it, he is up in one smooth motion, legs moving him as the action brings him to stand, leaning in toward Hayato he brushes his lips across his boyfriend's cheek, then slips to straddle the bench next to him. He will do his level best to keep his hands to himself but he still wants to be able to see Hayato's face.

Edited (because even when working I be thinking man lol) 2020-07-26 17:40 (UTC)

Probably if the family were to follow them, Gokudera's priorities would be different. He's sure that if they all came from Namimori, and he came from Amoi, the adjustment would be even more difficult. He hasn't been around an actual child in two years, and sure, he's always been annoyed by those younger than him, and he doesn't like those older, but he's not entirely sure how well he could act like he'd hadn't been on an alien planet. The stupid cow, lawn head, his sister, or any of the girls really, would probably point out the collar and make him uncomfortable.

He'd just have to act bristled as usual, and redirect attention from it. If the family were around, he would not prioritize himself at all. Reborn would probably help him, or the Tenth would find out, and then make it his mission to free Gokudera from the mark of past slavery he carries around.

But, he doesn't have to worry about that. It's just him and Takeshi. He's able to discuss personal matters with him easily because the baseball idiot isn't overwhelming him. He's patient and compassionate, and the bomber can get irritated, but... he understands the baseball idiot's motives. Takeshi's heart is in the right place, and he values it. He will continue to show him warmth, to strengthen their relationship.

"Well, you could be if you wanted to," Gokudera says and watches as Takeshi joins him on the bench. He feels a little giddy having him this close, surrounded on either side by his passions. For that sweeping kiss to his cheek, Gokudera leans against him comfortably.

"We could play something together some time..." He invites, and sweeps his fingers over the keys gently, playing a higher chord, the notes like chimes, and he's purposefully reaching across the Rain Guardian, glancing up at him with a hesitant hopefulness.

In the end, it should be the two of them. It gave them a chance that having the rest of the family would not. They can grow differently than they might have had everyone arrived en masse. Yes, it would be nice for everyone to be together. But this way, Hayato can heal the way he needs to, and Yamamoto can be his support.

Suppose they had their typical day to day people and activities to interrupt that it would probably be Yamamoto on Hayato's nerves and the baseball player figuring out his feelings later than he did when they got to connect deeply on arrival. He would not trade what he has with Hayato to have any of them here, his old man included. Yes, he wants to see them all again someday, but he can see himself being fine if he doesn't. He can not imagine going back to being Hayato's friend only, not now.

They handle each other better one on one; it gives them each a chance to understand the other on a deeper level. Besides, it would be too hard to keep his hands to himself, and he is sure Hayato would not let him be quite as affectionate in front of everyone else. He honestly is excited about his future, it has opened up in a way with Hayato that he never thought possible, and he would not want to give his heart to anyone else, no one else would care for it as his boyfriend does.

He feels that familiar warmth in his chest when the bomber leans into him; he can not stop the hand that reaches to settle against the small of his back. Doing his best not to interrupt the playing, "But then you couldn't play, I'd be in the way." In truth, those words have him slipping a little closer, how does he tell Hayato no when he wants to be like this.

"You'd teach me?" His face lights up at the prospect. "I'm not sure I'd be any good, but I'd try my best." He would love to do this with his boyfriend, even if he is a horrible pianist, he will be with the silver-haired storm, and that is good enough. He can not stop smiling, no more than he can look away or stop himself from leaning in toward Hayato when the other reaches across him, he's so close the scent of the other drifts through his senses, his fingers curl against his back. That look in those green eyes, the proximity, he nearly gives in, evident in the way his chin rises slightly before his tongue swipes his lips to keep himself in check.

Maybe he can still be hopeful that the rest of the family will show up. Sure, they're likely to be interrupted, but now that their feelings have been shared, they can steal time together. He's certain even if they didn't make anyone directly aware of their relationship, the Tenth would probably pick up on it (or Reborn would point it out to him and surprise him).

If he rest of the Vongola ever show up, he and Takeshi will just have to set aside their time together. Gokudera may be obvious in how close he'll stand, how he may even lean a bit against him, and Takeshi is generally a physically affectionate person. They could be happy together in front of the family. Gokudera wouldn't chose whether he'd rather have the rest of their family or Takeshi. That... he needs support. He feels grateful, but can't keep himself optimistic. Loving the other Guardian is going to be something he throws his heart and soul into, like every moment they have could end at any second.

It makes every moment more precious, and Gokudera feels heat blossom from Takeshi's touch. He relaxes his posture, but finds himself distracted. It'll be hard to keep his hands on the keys.

"Maybe I want you in the way." Really get Takeshi involved. He gives a sideways smile and nearly rolls his eyes. "Just a little duet. It's really simple. Here, I'll play it, and then I'll play your part. Then, I'll play the rest. Once you've got it, we'll play it at the same time." Gokudera moves his hands to the keys, looks at Takeshi, his hands, then back at Takeshi. "Watch. Not me, but the notes. You can hold your hand like this and just press them gently. Not too hard. Be gentle." Gokudera plays the song, and then takes Takeshi's hand. "Start here. This is 'C'"

He's going to play the bass for this song, since it'll require hitting multiple keys at the same time. "See it goes Heart" He taps Takeshi's key, "And then you stay on that for the next few words." Tap tap tap, "Heart and soul... I fell in love with you... You see?"

Edited 2020-07-27 04:41 (UTC)

They will get a lock on their door and hide when they need to. Besides, once Tsuna figures things out, he is sure to give his friends the respect their relationship needs. The one to be the loudest is bound to be Ryohei, but he'll get over himself after the initial shock. Then again, they may not see anyone till they go home; as long as he does not wake up to Hayato gone one day he will be okay.

Hayato has no idea how special it will make his boyfriend feel if he stands close or leans into in front of their friends. He knows he is a private person and will respect that, but in truth, he is so happy to be with Hayato he does not care who knows. Yamamoto will be his optimism; he has it in spades. As for going all in, he is not the only one; he may not consider every moment their last; he has not had to suffer that kind of loss, but he has thrown his all in the same as his silver-haired storm, and he would not change it if he could.

Yamamoto is having the same issue; it is hard to focus when he has his hand on Hayato; he can feel how warm he is and feel him relax. But, he wants to do this.

Even watching his fingers is distracting, Hayato does not realize how graceful those digits are as they move across the keys. He gets so lost, so caught up in the other.

So he does his best to focus, "It's hard not to watch you." He does pay attention, though, and when his hand is taken he lightly touches the keys as Hayato instructs, it is simple enough that the quick study baseball player can manage, he thinks, if he could stop wanting to turn his hand and hold Hayato's. Then his heart flutters; he knows it's the song but, it's as close to the actual words as he has heard come from Hayato's mouth, and his smile is unable to go away. "Like this..." If his voice is a little huskier from the emotion, his boyfriend will have to forgive him as he taps the key as he was shown. He is trying to get the timing down.

Gokudera wouldn't dream of leaving this place without Takeshi, doesn't plan on going home without him. He's in no fit state to bring all of his baggage back to Namimori, where the Mafia will surely take advantage of him. It's a hard life without the struggles of Amoi haunting him.

Takeshi makes everything easier with his support. Gokudera won't take any of him for granted.

The bomber has never taught anyone to play piano. Excluding the time Hibari harassed him on a bench, he's also never really shared this space. There's intimacy in playing for someone. Intimacy between them in general. He's not trying to make anything difficult, but the other boy's words give him pause.

His ears go pink at the thought of having so much attention, but he's going to just... focus on prodding those keys gently with Takeshi's fingers. "Yeah, and then you go down, and back up. Lost control." That same key is struck three times, and Gokudera's voice is matching the notes, but his voice is a bit scratchy. He's not trying to sing, even if he can. It's not a normal singing voice... not something he wants to actually share other than to carry the note. "Just like a fool would do" He points at the next notes, higher still, then taps them, "Mad-ly"

Gokudera clears his throat and releases Takeshi's hand before playing slowly on middle C, slow and hoping the other will follow along. "Focus on hitting the right keys. We're not following anything." They don't have to be in time.

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject