[B] Swap-a-roo
Imagine if Jaehwan and Yuto swapped partners. Aki would have been dating Yuto and Nagisa would have been dating Jaehwan. Aren't you curious about how different their lives would have been?
Now there's two versions I propose. One where if they were to actually swap partners (eg: shows like Wife Swap) for a week. Second version is if they had never met their respective partners in the first place.
Version 1
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First of all, how would they spend the week?
Aki and Yuto
•Yuto would clean the condo. Every inch of it.
•Make food for Aki.
•Aki tries to undo some of Yuto's subservient behaviours.
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Nagisa and Jaehwan
•Getting new bedclothes for Yuto (his are dull and depressing)
•Meal preps for the next week.
•Nagisa panics when Jaehwan's pain is triggered. He salutes Aki.
Version 2
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First of all, how would they have met?
Aki and Yuto
•They would have met in high school, most likely studying in the library and they so happened to fall in love.
•Since Nagisa would be at Jaehwan's place most of the time, he would have Aki come and sleep over. Nagisa never really cared as long as Yuto wasn't disrupting his relationship with Jaehwan.
•They would study together and cuddle A LOT because Aki was addicted to them and there was no cure.
•However, on nights where Nagisa wanted to bring Jaehwan home, Aki would rent out a motel room for the night so they could have some alone time.
•Yuto often made bento for Aki to bring to work.
•Eventually though, Aki would probably get a job that would land him some housing and he'd get Yuto to move in with him.
•Oh, and you bet your ass Aki would stand up to Yuto's demeaning mother.
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Nagisa and Jaehwan
•Nagisa was a frequent patron at Kuma Kafé who liked being there for the coffee and the company.
•Actually, Jaehwan was the one who fell in love with him (He missed having someone much older around him 24/7).
•One day, he wrote his phone number in a napkin and slipped it to Nagisa who did actually call him.
•They hung out and eventually dated. Jaehwan did introduce Nagisa to Shujin and his Master was surprisingly accepting.
•They spent a lot of time together and somehow, Nagisa managed to win Shujin's heart.
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Version 1
"This'll be your home for the next week. Make yourself at home,".
Both Yuto and Jaehwan did an experiment with each. They wanted to switch homes for a week to see if they could cope with the differences, if any changes to the home will be made and more interestingly, how their partners would respond to the whole thing.
They had set the boundary at hugging and a bit of cuddling but anything beyond that wasn't allowed. It would be intriguing to see how much their homes had changed after a week.
So, the experiment began.
Yuto's Experience
Aki helped Yuto with his luggage and watched him stare at the space, amazed. "Ryu lives here?"He mumbled to himself as he slipped off his shoes. "Yeah, he does. It's a decent sized place so I hope you find it comfortable here,". He opened his arms to Yuto, a shy grin. "I usually give him a big hug when he arrives home. Are you comfortable with that?". Yuto nodded and went along with it, feeling Aki hug him. "Jae left some instructions for you in a journal on the table. You can read them while I get dinner ready,".
"Okay. I'll do that,". The first thing that surprised Aki was Yuto's quiet compliance. He didn't seem to object to anything that was being thrown at him. Whether it was him wanting to feel the experience as a whole or it was him trying to do anything in his power to please him, Aki wasn't so sure.
Though, he was aware that Yuto had a history with abuse so it wouldn't be surprising if he was careful about reading the room. He obviously knew that Aki was a good person who had no abusive tendencies but he was still on his guard. This also helped Yuto realise just how safe and protected being around Nagisa made him feel and he really couldn't get that kind of security anywhere else.
Obediently, he sat at the table and began reading the instructions that had been written in Jaehwan's small and neat handwriting.
"1. Should my Master come to the condo to visit me during this period, you don't have to entertain him. Just tell him to head home.
2. When cleaning the earthen bowls, please soak them in rice water and boil it on the stove. Then, rinse them and leave them to dry.
3. Aki usually gets home around 8 or 9 so you can just leave dinner on the table covered.
4. Aki doesn't like it when we waste any food so try to limit any food wastage. I usually measure out ingredients and portion our food to make sure I've got the right amount.
5. Clean wherever you want in this house.
Have fun, Kirishima! I hope that both of us learn something from this experience!".
Reading the contents of the journal, Yuto took in everything he had written. "Okay. I have read it,". Aki looked over his shoulder, a smile on his face. "That's great. Could you please help me set the table for dinner?". Yuto shut the journal at once and stood up to put it away. "Of course,".
Curly haired Aki decided to take his time to talk with Yuto and to learn more about him. "What do you plan to achieve during your week-long experiment as my partner?". Chewing on his food slowly, Yuto thought for a bit before he replied.
"I'm going to clean this place and cook for you while you're at work. Well, that's the role I play in my relationship with Nagi anyway,". Aki nodded, understanding where he was coming from. 'Kirishima-kun practically takes on the role of a homemaker. No wonder Shinji-san is always excited to return home to his 'wife'.'
Sipping on a glass of his vitamin c supplement, Aki cleared his beverage before responding. "If you need anything or even a hug, I'm here for you,". He folded his arms and looked at Yuto. "I know how hard this experiment must be for you. You're not used to being away from Shinji-san for long periods of time, right?". Yuto agreed, smiling to himself. "But I wanted to try this out. I don't want to be too attached to him,".
While washing up after dinner, Aki was surprised to see Yuto pull ingredients out of the fridge. "Are you still hungry, Kirishima-kun? I could make a nice snack for you,". The other male shook his head and donned the apron he had brought from home. "No, but thank you for offering, Nakanishi-san. I have to prep for breakfast tomorrow,".
That concept sounded weird at first but it didn't take Aki long to realise how genius that was. Prepping breakfast the night before so you didn't need to rush in the morning? Why didn't he or Jaehwan do this? How much time could it have saved them?
"While I'm cooking all this, may I know where the bento boxes are kept? Could you also check if your uniform needs to be ironed? I'll do it after I'm through with prep,". Aki just watched him cut up some potatoes, surprised. "You...don't have to throw yourself into so much work... You just got here,".
Slicing the potatoes into nice thick wedge shapes, Yuto dropped them into a bowl of ice cold water to prevent them from oxidising while he cut up more vegetables. "I do this at home too. It's okay. Go ahead and rest. Ryu told me you had a difficult day at work today,".
Perplexed, Aki approached the kitchen counter. "Usually when you do this, what does Shinji-san do?". Yuto brought some of the veggies to the sink to clean them a bit more thoroughly before cutting them. "Hm, if he has more work, he'll sit at the kitchen island and accompany me while I prep. If he doesn't have anything else to do he'll rest in the living room, talk to me and hug me while I cook or follow me around the kitchen to annoy me on purpose,".
"He doesn't prep with you?".
"He can't cook...".
Not being able to cook? To Aki, cooking was a basic life skill. No, a mandatory life skill people should have. He could only imagine how hard it was for Yuto to be the only person in his household who could cook. Aki shook his head and washed his hands in the sink. "No, no. Tell me what I can do to help you,".
He began to help cut vegetables up and marinate meat which was new to Yuto. It did feel nice to have someone else who knew what they were doing in the kitchen. Though, he'd rather much do it himself if Nagisa helping out meant that the food could turn out inedible. Still, he appreciated Aki's help and when he wanted to go and iron his tracksuit, Aki playfully led him to the living room instead.
Pushing Yuto onto the sofa gently, he sat himself next to him. "Rest with me. I can iron it myself tomorrow. You haven't sat down and relaxed since you arrived,". Shy, Yuto leaned on his shoulder while he sat there. "I don't usually get enough rest to begin with...". Aki handed him a cushion to cuddle with before urging a question. "How much sleep do you get everyday?".
"4 hours if I'm lucky. But I get 1-2 hours a day,". Aki pulled out one of the folded blankets from a compartment under the sofa before he covered Yuto's lap with it. "Get some sleep. You're literally running on nothing. It's not healthy,". He didn't know if it was how tired his body was or if Jaehwan's couch was exceptionally comfortable but he fell asleep at once.
At first, he slept hunched forward, clinging onto the cushion. But Aki felt bad and knew that his neck was going to hurt a great deal afterwards. He scooted over and shifted Yuto's position so that he was lying down. He didn't know how this experiment would progress. It had only been day one and he could tell that Yuto was way too subservient.
Nothing was wrong with being cooperative but Yuto seemed to just go along with anything he wanted even while he was running on very little energy. Perhaps it was because he still didn't trust Aki enough. He probably wasn't very comfortable with Aki yet.
Hopefully, he'll warm up to him throughout the week.
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On the morning of the second day, Yuto woke up in the guest bedroom. He didn't know what time it was until he checked the clock and he broke into a fit of panic. It was 8 in the morning, 2 hours later than he would usually wake up. Running down the stairs, he saw Aki peep from the kitchen.
"Morning Kirishima-kun~ What's the rush?". He looked at Aki and sighed, still half asleep. "I'm sorry. I didn't wake up early enough to pack your bento. I'll do it right now,". Aki could tell that he was groggy and it was clear that he woke up just to get the food on the table. He patted Yuto on the head, smiling to reassure him.
"Practice is scheduled at 2:00 PM today so I don't have to leave until 12. No worries. If anything, I'm glad you finally got some quality sleep,". Gesturing to the dining table, he pet Yuto on the back. "I already made breakfast. Go wash up. I'll wait so I can eat with you,". It kind of caught Yuto off guard because he hadn't actually expected Aki to do something as nice as that. He immediately went back upstairs to get ready for the morning.
After breakfast, he immediately got started on housework which kind of startled Aki. "I won't vacuum until you've left for work since it's quite loud and it might bother you,". Aki shook his head. "You won't be a bother at all. But don't you think you should rest first? You just ate,".
Yuto shrugged, putting the mop down. "It's always better to start earlier. I'll pack your lunch box after I've mopped the floor,". Aki knew how much effort it took to do housework. In fact, he respected people who took on the role of "homemaker" because it really was unpaid labour. Yet, Yuto was functioning on a sliver of energy and nothing more. He deserved to rest, even if it was only for an hour or so.
"Tell you what, why don't you take a break after mopping the floor? We can lounge around together before I head off to work,". Yuto nodded as he wiped some sweat away from his neck. "If that's what you want, I'm okay with it,".
Aki also figured that he would tackle Yuto's slavish behaviour while he was over at their home. He could tell it was a result of the abuse he had faced. Still, people-pleasing was not healthy behaviour. He was used to trying to undo Jaehwan's altruistic attitude, what more another?
While they rested together on the sofa, Aki had some questions for Yuto. "Kirishima-kun, I'm going to be blunt with you. Are you resting because you genuinely feel the need to or because it's what I asked of you?". Yuto hesitatingly replied as he hugged a cushion. "Because it's what you wanted. I don't usually rest until part of the house is clean and dinner's on the table,".
"Are you used to bending backwards to meet Shinji-san's expectations?". Yuto looked down, his blonde bangs covering his eyes. "Shinji-san is my first significant other and I hope he'll be my last. That's why I want to make sure he's happy and that his needs are met,".
Face buried in the cushion, he tried not to let Aki see his glassy eyes. "I've been cooking and cleaning for him for so long. I'm scared that I'll get beaten if I slow down or even miss a day,". He just kept on mumbling to himself. "Yet, he's been treating me well; Especially during instances when I'm too exhausted to cook. I don't think I should be feeling this way,".
That tugged at Aki's heartstrings. He knew that it wasn't Yuto's fault that he felt that way. "Would you like a hug now?". Yuto nodded, wiping his tears with the sleeve of his hoodie. "Yes, please. I'm sorry that you have to see me cry like this,". Aki put his arms around Yuto, thumping his back gently.
Consoling him, Aki kept his voice low and calm. "I'm glad that you trust me enough to tell me something so vulnerable. You shouldn't have to apologise because I can tell how much you love Shinji-san from the way you're crying over this,". Pulling Yuto close to him, he lent him his shoulder to cry on.
"I'm guessing that you haven't told Shinji-san any of this. If that's the case, please relay everything you've told me back to him when you return home to him next week. However tough it may be, it's important for him to know of these fears so that he can provide you with the emotional reassurance you need,".
Nodding obediently, Yuto clung onto Aki. "Thank you, Nakanishi-san. You're all I have for the week. Thank you for making me feel safer,". Aki just patted his back to comfort him. "I'll take care of you for the rest of the week. Let me know if you need any more emotional support, alright?". Yuto just responded with a quiet nod and Aki hugged him until he was ready to leave for work.
With an adorable looking bento box and his tracksuit ironed and wrinkle free, Yuto sent Aki off for work with a hug. "Stay safe~ If you need me to get anything for you on the way home, just call me,". Of course, the minute Aki had gone, he doubled down on housework. Cleaning the bathrooms, changing the sheets and vacuuming the floor.
One thing he did not realise was how much bigger Jaehwan's house was compared to Nagisa's. Vacuuming the lower floor was exhausting alone, what more the floor above? He didn't know how his chronically ill friend could do it while juggling a full-time job to boot but he is quite the fighter.
Still, this was his role in the relationship. He was going to have to live up to it. After cleaning the upper floor, Yuto decided to get a head start on dinner so that he could continue working on scrubbing the rugs in peace. Jaehwan had a lot of furniture that required maintenance and the black that was coming off his fur rugs told Yuto that they've never been washed before.
At night, Aki came home to Yuto laying the rugs to dry in the living room. "Kirishima-kun, tadaima! I can see that you've been busy,"He laughed, putting his sports bag on the floor. Yuto nodded and obediently went to him to give him a hug. "Yeah. I vacuumed and mopped the upper and lower floor, cleaned the bathrooms and I've just finished scrubbing the rugs,".
Patting Yuto on the back, Aki was quite astonished with what he managed to do in those few hours. Pulling a bag from within his sports bag, he grinned. "I brought some treats home for you. Have you ever tried this brand of ice cream before?".
Holding the freezing contained in his hands, Yuto shook his head. "No, I haven't. Thank you, Nakanishi-san,". Chuckling, Aki lifted the bag and shook it around. "There's more in here than you think. You're going to need all the energy you can get,".
Storing all of the treats that Aki had brought home, Yuto immediately shooed him away to wash up while he would get dinner ready. He did not know that Aki could be so nice to him. But perhaps he should let his guard down.
Eyeing the chocolate taiyaki from the pile of treats, he smiled to himself.
Maybe trusting other people wasn't so bad after all.
Confrontation
"Okay, I won't beat around the bush. We need to talk about something profound Kirishima-kun told me, Shinji-san,".
"Lay it on me,".
Clearing his throat, Aki found it hard to say it himself. "Well, he told me...that he's been afraid that you'll beat him if he doesn't cook and clean tirelessly. He says that you treat him well though so I don't think it's something he can help,".
He sighed, hands clasped together before he continued. "He contributes a lot of his time and energy to play his role in the relationship. He really does love you so much Shinji-san, but part of him is afraid of history repeating itself,". Nagisa looked at Yuto, caressing his shoulder tenderly to cajole him.
"Because this has been brought to my attention, I'm going to promise you something, Yuto. I promise you, for as long as my heart still beats, to never display any sort of abusive behaviour towards you,". He held out his pinky to Yuto, a benign smile on his face.
Shyly taking his pinky, Yuto pecked him on the cheek. "Thank you for understanding, Nagi,". Nagisa pulled Yuto onto his lap and cuddled. Jaehwan smiled at them and folded his arms. "Well, a promise doesn't amount to anything if you don't live up to it. Make sure you keep your promises, Shinji-san,".
Humming in agreement, Nagisa pecked Yuto back on the cheek. "Of course I will. It's what he deserves,". Yuto slumped into his partner's body, his body less stiff as Nagisa whispered to him.
"Anyone who truly loves you wouldn't ever dream of using your past as a reason to hurt you,".
Jaehwan's Experience
Lugging some heavy bags, Jaehwan seemed to have brought a lot with him. "Gosh, that's a lot for one week, don't you think?"Nagisa chuckled and Jaehwan politely nodded his head. "I've bought some nice bedspreads for Kirishima. Will you help me change his sheets?".
"Of course! Though, you didn't have to. He doesn't even sleep in his room,"Nagisa admitted as he helped Jaehwan with a clear casing full of some adorable Shiuma brand sheets. "Well, even if he doesn't sleep in his room, it's always great to know that your room looks nice,".
Sitting himself down at the dining table, there was a journal full of instructions waiting for him. Complete with Yuto's typewritten handwriting.
"1. Usually I clean the whole house throughout the week. You don't have to.
2. Nagi wipes the windows, washes the dishes, cleans out Yuna's litter and does the laundry.
3. I apologise in advance, you'll be cooking a lot this week.
4. Please make sure Yuna takes her vitamins.
Good luck for the week, Ryu. I hope that both of us can benefit from this experience,".
Immediately taking his coat off, he started for Yuto's room.
Lifting up his friend's mattress, Jaehwan cocked his head. He pulled the sheets off and sniffed the mattress. "This smells off...How old is this mattress?". Nagisa stood by the door and responded to his question. "Oh, easily a decade old. It was quite old and cheap when I got it,". Jaehwan retched and hauled the mattress of the bed.
"No, this won't do. You and I are going to buy a new one. Especially with the poor ventilation in his room, it's quite suffocating,". Nagisa scratched his head, unzipping the plastic case that contained the new bedsheets. "To be honest, this room was supposed to be a store room but my mother made me convert it into a bedroom. That must be why,".
Jaehwan nodded and got a big black trash bag so he could fold the mattress and donate it elsewhere later in the week. "We can buy a new one on Friday. For now, I'll just clean his room,". Nagisa shrugged as he looked at his watch. "As you wish. I'll go out and get dinner for us after I'm done planning my lessons for the next month. Is there anything you'd like to eat?".
"You live near a marketplace right? What do they usually have?". Nagisa almost did a double take. "You've never been to a market before?". Jaehwan shook his head in response and he checked his watch again. "I guess it can't hurt. Would you like to follow me to the market?".
Almost dropping the rubbish bag, Jaehwan's eyes sparkled. "You don't mind?". Jingling the car keys in one hand, Nagisa put his coat on. Pulling Jaehwan's coat off of the coat rack, he smiled at him.
"Let's go to the market, Ryu-kun,".
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Everything was new and exciting to Jaehwan. He couldn't have known what it was like to shop at a market unless he followed Nagisa. He was so used to being able to buy whatever he wanted at supermarkets but this experience was quite humbling.
It was quite a large market, with tents and kiosks at every corner. Some sold toys and trinkets while others were selling food and meals. There was even a store for electronics and repairing services. Something about the bustling environment made Jaehwan feel more alive.
Holding the belt of Nagisa's coat, they walked steadily. "Usually, I never get to take Yuto out to the market at this time and past this point. The crowds usually make him anxious,".
"Really? That's interesting. So he can only go to the market with you?".
"Yeah. If I don't go with him, he barely makes it past his adoptive grandmother's shop,".
Looking behind him, Jaehwan tried to look around to see if he could spot Yuto's grandmother. However, he didn't need to look for long because Yuto's adoptive father spotted them.
"Shinji-kun! You're at the market today? What a pleasant surprise,". Ducking behind Nagisa, he heard Yuto's partner greet his father-in-law. "Good evening, Fujikawa-chichi. Yeah, I have to buy dinner home today,". Fujikawa could tell that someone was hiding behind Nagisa and laughed.
"That must be his friend right? He told me that both of you were doing an experiment for a week and that you would be living with my son-in-law,".
Beckoning Jaehwan out of his shadow, Fujikawa's eyes got wider. "Oh, you're the model that recently signed with KIM.ECO! Who would have known,". Blushing, Jaehwan pulled his mask down. "You can recognise me?".
Watching the old man pull out his phone, the ad campaign he recently participated in was displayed on screen. "It's not hard to be able to tell you apart from the other models when you have that defining mark around your neck,". Fujikawa chuckled and continued showing Jaehwan all the pictures that he took.
"I kept these photos so I could remember to get that hoodie you wore for Yuto. But, I didn't know you were the friend he was talking about,". Secretly, Jaehwan was glowing with happiness. He knew that signing with KIM.ECO was a huge deal and he was quite proud of himself for making it this far even though Shujin doubted him.
"Angel, you're too thin for that. You can't even fit into regular clothing,".
"That's why I said, "if possible", Master,".
Patting Jaehwan on the head, Nagisa smiled at his father-in-law. "Yeah, we're all really proud of him. Yuto was a happy chap, showing me his photoshoots and stuff,".
Agreeing, Fujikawa decided that he had held them back for too long. "Well, good luck with your future endeavours. You really are model material,"He chuckled and headed for his mother's stall. Jaehwan thanked him, his face still red before he hurriedly snapped his mask back on.
Not even seconds later, Fujikawa returned with some desserts in hand. "Here, some daifuku and wagashi!". Nagisa immediately reached for his wallet and Fujikawa shook his head violently. "Nope! You don't have to pay for these!".
"Fujikawa-chichi! I can't take all of these handmade desserts and not pay for them!"Nagisa whined and still tried to wriggle his wallet out of his pocket. While Nagisa was trying to convince Fujikawa to let him pay, Yuto's adoptive grandmother slid next to Jaehwan.
"You're the handsome young man that got signed to that big agency,". Her voice was throaty and she pulled out her smartphone. "May I have a picture please?". Immediately Jaehwan pulled his mask down again and both of them posed for a picture.
Watching Nagisa bicker with his father-in-law, Jaehwan realised just how tight-knit shopping could be at the market.
He should definitely ask Yuto to take him to the market someday.
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When they got home, acts from that traumatic night just kept flashing in Jaehwan's head. Stupid Shujin, why did he have to say that? Why did he constantly have to resurface in Jaehwan's head?
Even though they were on good terms now, even though Shujin was much less abusive, he just couldn't forget all the awful things he had said and done.
Noticing Jaehwan's flushed face, Nagisa got quite worried. He was aware of Jaehwan's illness but he probably wasn't ready to deal with it. "Do you feel sick, Ryu-kun? You should lie down,". Trying to keep himself awake despite the raging pain in his chest, Jaehwan conjured a smile on his face.
"I'm sure I'll be fine. I think I just ate too fast,". However, when he stooped to get up so he could do the dishes, his legs felt like jelly and he collapsed.
Saying that Nagisa was panicking would be an understatement. He tried to move Jaehwan to the sofa at once and froze, not really knowing what to do. "M-My medicine...Could you get it for m-me please?".
"Where is it?".
"M-my luggage, smallest compartment,".
Digging to get Jaehwan's medicine, Nagisa hared back with a pill and some water. Solemnly, Jaehwan took his medication, cringing as the pain was eating him up. Even swallowing was painful.
Holding Jaehwan's weak hand, Nagisa didn't know how Aki could handle it. The fact that Jaehwan's pain could just come at any time and the mental preparation he'd need to be able to be equipped enough to handle the situation, he deserved a standing ovation.
"How does Nakanishi-kun help you whenever the pain starts to set in?".
Jaehwan turned his head to face Nagisa, squeezing his hand. "U-Usually, he gets my medicine like you did and he just sits next to me and holds my hand u-until I black out or fall asleep,". The pain must be rearranging some gears in his head and about how he felt earlier.
"I'm happy to be a m-model. I-It's a great job and I'm all for it. But, I wish m-my Master would be more supportive of it,". He would have continued to tell Nagisa more but eventually, all he could see was black.
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Jaehwan woke up to Nagisa checking his temperature, his brow furrowed. "You gave me quite the scare yesterday. Do you feel any better now?"Nagisa laughed, handing him a cup of water. "Yeah, I do. Sorry for scaring you Shinji-san,".
Sipping the warm water in the cup, Jaehwan realised that Nagisa had moved him to his bed and even put a nice hard pillow to support his back. "You really know how to keep someone on their toes,". Leaving the bedroom, Nagisa came back with a tray of breakfast.
"I went to the market and got some breakfast for us. I don't think you'll be fit enough to cook,". Jaehwan held his head, still a bit woozy but he was grateful that Nagisa understood him well.
'Kirishima is right when he says that Shinji-san treats him well and absolutely spoils him into oblivion. In a way, it feels nice'.
After breakfast, Jaehwan saw Nagisa off to work with a hug and sat down to meal prep for the week. He would be making a lot of Korean food for Nagisa to try since he was certain that Yuto had never made it before.
It was new to him to be able to text Nagisa whatever groceries he needed and his partner for the week would just bring them over. In a way, he realised just how much time Yuto spent at home. He looked at Yuna who had been asleep on the sofa after having breakfast, her belly all cute and exposed.
"At least he has her to keep him entertained. When I'm home alone on days where I don't go to work, I don't have anything but the fish in the aquarium,".
Whispering to Yuna, the kitten pranced her way to him, snuggling in his lap. Looking as if she was asking him where Yuto was, she mewed and eyed the front door.
"Are you asking me where your other papa is? He's with my partner for the week,"Jaehwan chuckled and Yuna meowed in response, licking his hands with her rough tongue as he planned for the week. "You'll see him soon, I promise. I'm not hiding him anywhere,". She looked at the list, interested in what was to come throughout the week.
Flinching, he glanced at the medicine cabinet. "Oh, I don't think you've had your vitamins yet. Come along,". Yuna had been having problems with indigestion because she scarfed her food down far too quickly than she was supposed to. To aid her, Yuto had been giving her daily probiotics that would boost her immunity and digestive system.
Opening Yuna's mouth, he popped in her chewable vitamin followed by a tear stain supplement. Yuto had done a good job at desensitising her to touch, she had been handled and socialised well so she didn't even nip at Jaehwan's fingers. "Good girl! You're doing so well,"He praised, stroking her face.
Meowing, Yuna pawed at the fridge. Jaehwan pulled out a jar of white kimchi and she meowed even louder. "Would you like some kimchi with your chicken necks and beef hearts?". Conveying how impatient she was, she walked over to her feeding bowl and sat there. "Okay, Princess. Give me some time,".
As he prepared Yuna's food, he couldn't help but feel jealous of Yuto.
He wished he had a furry baby of his own too.
Confrontation
"First of all, Nakanishi-kun, you're a tough cookie. How can you handle the stress that comes with Ryu-kun's chronic illness? I really stopped in my tracks when he suddenly fainted,".
Rubbing the nape of his neck, Aki smiled sheepishly as he gazed at Nagisa. "Well, it was obviously hard at first. It was a huge shock to me when his Master first told me. But, I guess I adapted to it and learnt how to handle it calmly with time,".
Holding his hands in front of his crotch, Nagisa chewed on his lip. "Ryu-kun also told me that he wishes his guardian could be more supportive about his new job. I think that sudden rush of unhappiness was the main perpetrator of his fainting last week,".
Aki turned to Jaehwan, rubbing him tenderly on his skinny right shoulder. "We can talk to Shujin-sama about this during our next call. Okay? You don't have to bottle everything up, Hwan-ie." Agreeing, Jaehwan leaned against his shoulder. "Alright, Kiki. I do feel sorry towards Shinji-san though. I think he jumped out of his skin when I just dropped to the floor,".
Shaking his head, Nagisa shook his hands to signify that it was okay. "It's fine! I just didn't expect you to fall like that. But, now I know how to handle such sudden attacks. Still, it's terrifying for that to happen anytime and I hope you'll find a solution that works long-term for you, Ryu-kun,".
Laughing nervously, Jaehwan put his hands on Aki's chest and his eyes sparkled like an innocent puppy. "Kiki, you know, having Yuna for the week really made me realise how quiet it was to be at home. She's always bustling about and she totally livens up a dull day at home,".
Almost as if he could tell what Jaehwan was implying, Aki crossed his arms. "Uh-huh....What are you trying to tell me, Hwan-ie?".
"Could we get a puppy please?".
"Hwan-ah...I'm allergic to dogs,".
Of course, as always, he fell prey to Jaehwan's irresistible puppy eyes.
"But you know what? We can figure something out,".
________________________
Version 2
AKI X YUTO
"I'm heading out. Make sure the door is locked properly,".
"Okay, Shinji-san,".
"Mhm. I'll be back for breakfast tomorrow. See you then,".
"Bye,".
Once the coast was clear, Yuto opened the sliding door to the deck and let his partner in. "Shinji-san left for his partner's place tonight. So, the house is ours for the night,". Aki set his sports bag down, grinning as he put his arms around Yuto's waist. "That's great babe! I can't wait for tonight,".
Cheeky, Aki slipped his hands up Yuto's hoodie. "You just cuter every time I see you. How is it possible for someone to look so adorable?". He melted in Yuto's arms, pure contentment on his face. "You were from the States, Nakanishi-san. I'm sure there's plenty of people there that are way better looking than me,".
Kissing his boyfriend on the forehead, Aki chuckled. "Come on, eurocentric beauty standards don't mean shit to me. You always look gorgeous, Shima-kun,". Playing with Aki's curls, Yuto scrunched them softly. "Thank you, Nakanishi-san. Also, I really like playing with your hair. It's so bouncy and fun,".
Picking Yuto up in his arms, he took his partner to his room and plopped him down on the small bed. "I already had dinner on the way here so let's just get straight to business,". Watching Aki unzip the top of his tracksuit and pull it off, crimson painted his cheeks innocently.
"You baby~ You're red all over. I guess you can't help being shy,". Pulling at the strings of Yuto's hoodie, he rested his hands on the waistband of his track bottoms, edging them down his hips playfully. "You don't mind doing it in your room, right? I think we would have gotten caught if I tried sneaking you into my hostel,".
Biting his lip, Yuto gazed at Aki, his head and body heating up."I don't mind. It's safer here. And I get to be alone with you. As long as I get to be with you, I don't mind anything,". Putting his arms around Aki's neck, Yuto leaned into his shoulder, shutting his eyes. "Nakanishi-san, Shinji-san will be back by 7:00am if he's on time,".
Understanding what Yuto meant by that, Aki smiled and held him close. "I'll do anything you want, Shima-kun. All you have to do is say it,".
.
.
.
Cuddling on the sofa, they were having an early breakfast together. Yuto had his head on Aki's chest and Aki's arm was wrapped comfortably around his waist. While they were watching their programme together, Aki had some news he wanted to break to Yuto.
They had been dating for 4 years now. Aki was more than certain that he and Yuto were inseparable now. He'd snuck into Nagisa's house more times than he could count and he had had Yuto over at his hostel before. Yuto even pulled together and made a bento box for him to take to work every week.
It was time that they got closer. Instead of having to wait till night to see each other, to be wary of their surroundings in case they got caught. To be able to love each other freely without any worries. Truth is, Aki had secured a decently paying job that required him to move. But, lodging was provided and paid for and Aki didn't want to go long distance with Yuto.
He loved Yuto so much. They got to see each other every week now, even if it was only for a little bit at night. To have to go without seeing Yuto for the next few years or even longer, it was torture for him. After all, they were graduating soon. And because he had the privilege of being offered such a good job, he wanted to take Yuto to his new place of work with him.
Away from his abusive mother. Away from his emotionally absent and insensitive ex-brother-in-law. Away from the people who clearly don't give a shit about him.
After all, why would they care so much if Yuto decided to pack up and follow him to the outskirts of Japan? It's not like Yuto meant anything to them. Aki had seen just how horrible they've been to him with his own eyes and frankly, the further away Yuto was from them, the better!
But the real question was if Yuto was ready or not to uproot everything he had ever known to move in with Aki.
However, he didn't really have much time to dwell on it because the clock was ticking. 15 to 7 in the morning. It was time for him to leave. Shouldering his sports bag sadly, he gave Yuto a big hug and a kiss on the forehead. "I'll miss you so much, Shima-kun. You're someone I look forward to seeing everyday,".
Pecking Aki on the cheek, Yuto hugged him back. "I'll miss you too, Nakanishi-san. Please stay safe,". With that, Aki scurried off, heading back to his hostel to get ready for his classes.
________________________
On the day of their graduation, Yuto just seemed out of it. Like he knew what was to come. Since he was out of school now, he had to move back to his family home. Where all the abuse happened.
His 7 years of peace and freedom were up. Honestly, he was scared of going home. In fact, he even pictured that Shinji-san had already packed his things in boxes and was ready to kick him out. While everyone was celebrating their independence from school, Yuto hid in a nearby toilet to cry to himself.
It did not take Aki long to sniff him out and soon enough, a broken and sobbing Yuto was being comforted in his arms while they sat on the bed of his hostel. Aki had already packed his things neatly and knew that it was time to tell Yuto everything.
"I have to move to the countryside, Shima-kun,".
Instantaneously, Yuto began crying harder, grabbing Aki's robe tightly. "P-please..You can't leave m-me alone...Nakanishi-san...y-you're all I have,"He whimpered and broke down in shaky breaths and uncontrollable sobs. Embracing Yuto tightly, Aki tried to tut him.
"I'm not leaving you alone, baby. In fact...".
A sleek black box emerged from his pocket and he got down on one knee, a gentle smile on his face.
"I'm more than willing to bring you along with me,".
________________________
NAGISA X JAEHWAN
*ding dong*
"Jaehwan? I'm here,".
Opening the door hastily, Jaehwan hugged his partner. "Shinji-san~ You came!". He smiled and felt Nagisa carry him in his arms, hugging him back. "Of course I'd come. It's not too late anyway,". Slamming the door shut, Nagisa propped Jaehwan against the wall.
"The security guards outside the block almost didn't let me in. But they recognised me from the last time you brought me over so I was allowed in,". Jaehwan giggled and rubbed his nose against his partner's. "Sorry about that, your pass is still being made. If you ever have any issues with them, call me and I'll tell them to let you in,".
Kissing Jaehwan on the forehead, Nagisa brushed his fingers around his neck. "I'll keep that in mind, Jaehwan~"He purred, sucking on a soft spot. "Shinji-san, it tickles,"Jaehwan giggled, arching his neck. Leaving a nice and visible mark, Nagisa put him down safely with a smile.
"Anyway, I've bought some Korean BBQ for supper tonight. Come on, let's enjoy it together,". Pulling out his hot plate, he let Nagisa grill the meat for him even though it was really late at night. He was glad to have an older partner who was capable of looking after him.
Who knows how Shujin would feel about Jaehwan's new partner though? Jaehwan was still yet to introduce Shujin to his boyfriend but he was certain that his Master wouldn't mind. Putting out some kimchi in a dish, he sat down to a delicious supper with his partner.
Later at night, while they were cuddling in bed, Nagisa buried his nose in Jaehwan's chest. "You're so skinny Jaehwan. I feel like you could snap if I wasn't too careful,". Jaehwan shrugged, his face redder than a beet. "I know, Shinji-san.
Holding Nagisa's hands that were wrapped around his waist, Jaehwan chewed his lip. "I've tried everything. But, nothing has worked for me. Maybe I'm meant to be this frail,". Pecking Jaehwan on the neck, Nagisa snuggled up to him. "It's just really unhealthy and saddening to see you like this. It's like watching a person made of fine glass traverse a world of sharp objects."
"Anything can happen to you,"He mumbled, hugging Jaehwan while he pressed his face against Jaehwan's ribs. They were quite prominent and bony to the touch which worried Nagisa. Slender fingers caressed Nagisa's hair tenderly. "I'll try my best to be careful for your sake, Shinji-san. I'm sorry to worry you with my weight,"He whispered.
Hushing him, Nagisa just held him close. "It's fine Jaehwan, I know it's something you can't help. For now, let's just get some rest, alright?".
"Okay, Shinji-san. Goodnight. I love you~".
"I love you too Jaehwan. Sleep well,".
________________________
Nagisa adjusted his tie, nervous. He will be meeting Shujin for the first time today. He was aware from Jaehwan's accounts that Shujin was a strict and intimidating person so he knew what to expect. As a gift of respect to Jaehwan's Master, he had brought a gift of Miyazaki mangoes.
Red mangoes wrapped in expensive pink casing in a sleek black box.They did cost a lot but if it would improve Jaehwan's Master's impression of him, why wouldn't he buy it? Jaehwan could tell that he was nervous. He had never seen Nagisa sweat so much ever. But then again, they had been together for years now.
If anything, Shujin would be glad to finally meet his Angel's boyfriend. Nothing would ease him better than knowing that Jaehwan was being taken care of by a great partner. At 4 in the evening, Shujin was already waiting for them in the living room of Jaehwan's condo. Nagisa was in the bathroom, doing some last minute touch ups.
"Does my suit look okay? Is my tie alright? Is my hair messy?"He asked Jaehwan, who was helping him get dressed. "Hm, you look fine to me. Don't be too worried, I'm sure he'll like you,". Wiping the sweat off his forehead with a handkerchief, Nagisa's hands were shaking. "But, I'm so much older than you. Is he okay with that?".
Laughing, Jaehwan cupped his cheeks. "He's way older than me too. Don't kid yourself, it's not like he stepped into the fountain of youth or anything,". With Nagisa's spirits lifted, he exited the bathroom, mentally preparing himself to greet Shujin.
To his surprise, Shujin was already inspecting the box of Miyazaki mangoes, a grin on his face. Meekly tailing behind Nagisa, Jaehwan clung onto his arm, a little nervous himself. The minute he began walking down the stairs, Shujin's eyes shot up, twinkling.
"If it isn't my Angel's boyfriend. I'm glad that I'm finally meeting you,". Commandeering, Shujin directed his gaze to the armchair next to him. "Sit down. I have a lot to discuss with you,". Nagisa obediently followed his orders and sat himself down. "First of all, are these authentic Miyazaki mangoes?".
"Yes, Sir. They were ¥400,000."
Scrutinising the fruit once more, Shujin opened the gift and felt them in his hands. Then, he smiled. "Angel? Could you do your Master a favour?". Jaehwan nodded and waited for his Master to give him an order. "Cut up these mangoes for me. I want to enjoy them while I talk with your boyfriend. Thank you,".
Ducking his head, Jaehwan quietly took the mangoes to the kitchen without another word. Shujin smiled at Nagisa and leaned back in his seat. "Thank you for buying this old man a treat. You really didn't have to,". Nagisa shrugged and relaxed as well. "I figured they'd be a good gift for you, Sir,".
"Mhm, you thought well. I'm relieved now,".
'Does this mean he accepts me?'.
"Anyway, shall we begin?"Shujin asked, taking his tie off. Nagisa glanced at the kitchen and Jaehwan nodded to encourage him. "Yes, Sir. We can start,".
Throughout the meeting, Shujin was very relaxed. Not as intimidating as he was in the beginning. Nagisa had won his heart somehow but neither of the two lovebirds were complaining.
On the contrary, they were glad that they could love each other openly without a shred of worry.
_φ(･ω･ Author's Note
This bonus chapter was so cursed to write, I apologise if Version 2 is lacking but it's strange and I'm physically unable to continue. Regardless, did you like this chapter? Voting is appreciated! Thank you for reading this chapter of A Heart To Heal! ♡