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Ichigo slid out of bed and threw his uniform on.He’d managed to get a full 3 hours sleep, a good night for him.He soon went downstairs and found his brother Yagen making breakfast whilst Nakigitsune played with his pet fox.“Yagen, where’s all the others?” Ichigo asked yawningYagen looked up smiling “Morning Ichi-nii, Namazuo is getting Hakata and Houchou whilst Honebami gets everyone else.”‘Aah yes’ Ichigo thought ‘my two new brothers’.__________________________________________________________________________________Despite only being born 17 years previously Ichigo had not had an easy life.When he was born it was perfect.He had been born into a nice family and he had a loving mother and father.His happiness had lasted a full year of his life.When he was a year old his parents got divorced and his father took everything from his mother.To earn money his mother had become a prostitute, though they only found that out later.In his house his father had married again and his first brother Nakigitsune had been born when he was 2.Very soon Ichigo was enamoured by his younger brother, he would sit by the baby staring at him and would always try to look after him.Then, two years after Nakigitsune was born, his mother knocked on the door.Ichigo ran to hug her, trying to tell her all about everything that had happened since she had left but she had no care for him.She simply looked at his father and informed him about how his actions had driven her to be a prostitute. She then handed him two bundles and left.The two bundles were Yagen and Namazuo. Her love for children kept her from aborting them but she didn’t have the money or the lifestyle, according to her, to look after them.His father reluctantly took them in and the next year when his mother turned up with another child who they called Honebami he accepted him too.Just like with Nakigitsune, Ichigo became rather obsessed with looking after his younger brothers. Giving them his food if they were hungry, playing with them, tutoring them and the like.But, when Ichigo was seven and his mother arrived again with another child his father had refused. However, Ichigo couldn’t turn away his little brother. He caught a peak of the innocent face and snuck out and took the baby from his mother. So, Ichigo secretly took Atsushi and raised him. When his father found out he was incredibly angry and said this was the last time they accepted a child from “that woman”.Until she came the next year with Gotou. And Ichigo took him again. His father was furious with him. Due to the pressure from Ichigo and his wife, he didn’t put Gotou up for adoption. Instead left the house abandoning his wife and children. He let them keep the house and paid the bills but would do no more for his “big regret”.So, for about two more years Ichigo’s stepmother stayed with them, helping take care of all the children. But with the addition of Midare and Gokotai his stepmother too cracked. She left Ichigo, a ten-year-old, to take care of his now eight siblings. She sent money for food but said she couldn’t take care of eight children, even if Ichigo barely needed looking after anymore.When his mother came back the next year she didn’t even seem bothered that her son was living alone, she just handed him Akita and left.At 11 he was supporting a family of nine through donations from his ‘parents’ and work he did in the neighbourhood such as washing cars. As a result, no one in his family was a picky eater, they were just happy with what they had.All the brothers loved their Ichigo more than anything else in the world.When he was 12 and Yagen was 8, Yagen taught himself how to cook. Then Namazuo learnt how to take care of babies, Honebami to clean and Nakigitsune got a pet fox which calmed him down from his intense social anxiety attacks whenever they went out. In these small ways his siblings had helped Ichigo so much.As soon as he reached 15, the legal age to work, the money from his step-mother and father stopped. He was told in a letter from them which enclosed 1 million yen to pay for anything in the future but 1 million yen was not enough for him and his 12 siblings, especially when his mother brought the twins Hakata and Houchou. And then Mouri when he was 16.Ichigo almost had a panic attack but he couldn’t let his siblings know or they’d want to work when they got to 15 and he wanted them to have as normal a life as he could give them.So, he took the work that paid the most, stripping and prostitution. While he had been reluctant to take the same work as his mother he needed the money to pay for them.But His brothers didn’t know the kind of work he was doing to earn the money. Or even that his father’s money had stopped. So, he kept it secret by doing some work at a supermarket and saying he was there all the time to gain extra money. Or sometimes that he was studying with his classmates. He was lucky that his brothers never questioned where this money went.__________________________________________________________________________________Soon, Namazuo came down with two little boys, hand in hand, and Honebami was holding onto Maeda and Hirano while the others were trickling in behind him.Owing to his severe social anxiety Nakigitsune didn’t go to school so he looked after the small ones when the rest weren’t there as even Ichigo needed to go to school as he wanted to get a better job.“Right everyone, let’s go” Ichigo announced and all of them from Gokotai upwards, bar Nakigitsune, got up and followed Ichigo out of the door, grabbing their things on the way out.They were very early, per usual, as Ichigo had to go to each of their schools and drop them off.Apart from Ichigo they all went to state schools as Ichigo’s father paid for his. He wished he could afford to send them all to elite schools like his but he just couldn’t afford it.He first dropped off Gokotai, Midare, Gotou and Atsushi, then Honebami, Namazuo and Yagen at their respective schools. Finally, he made his way to his own school.He started studying as soon as he got to his classroom. He was on a special offer which meant that if he got consistently high grades for the whole of high school he could go to a good university without any exams which would be a blessing for him. “Hey Ichigo.”Ichigo groaned as he heard a sultry voice behind him and Mikazuki Munechika slid up next to him.“Hello Mikazuki” he replied with an even voiceIt wasn’t that Ichigo didn’t like Mikazuki, it was just that he had told Ichigo about his feelings for him recently and Ichigo wasn’t too sure how to act around him. He might have considered his confession if not for the situation with his family and his less than ideal jobs. Well, he tried not to think about it.Mikazuki’s smile drooped a little “Ichigo, please don’t act differently around me because of what I told you. It’s totally okay if you don’t feel that way about me”He patted him on the back.That made him feel even more guilty. Mikazuki was being so nice about everything.“Morning you two!” Hasebe’s voice rang out through the classroom.Mikazuki stood up. “Good morning Hasebe, seen much of Fudou today?”Hasebe turned bright red and sat down in his seat at the front of the class. Mikazuki chuckled as the rest of their small class trickled in.Well, it would be small for a normal school but not for Ichigo’s.Ichigo went to one of a very few specialised High Schools in Japan. His school was devoted to the study of religion and the arts. He was in the second year which was the biggest in school with seven people.Both the year above and below had four.Mutsunokami was sat in the corner talking to Souza. For some reason ever since the beginning of the year Mutsunokami and Souza have been best friends. No-one was very sure why.Once the bell rang their homeroom teacher came in and, as always, he looked a little drunk.“Good morning everyone! Ready for another great day?! So today you all have Modern culture with me, textiles with my brother and then world religions with Yamabushi-sensei, okay? So, did anything exciting happen at clubs yesterday?”Jirou-sensei was always like this. He was so enthusiastic about everything and wanted to be totally informed on his students lives. He wasn’t just nosy though, he did really care about his students.Mikazuki informed him excitedly on how they had a new tea in from Kyoto and he’d been allowed to prepare it, Yamanbagiri mumbled something about Kendo club being fun and Mutsunokami started talking at breakneck speed about the temple they had visited in the extra religion club.Ichigo didn’t have the time to be in a club and this saddened him. He would love to spend more time with his year and make friends, something he had never had, but right now, his family was the priority.__________________________________________________________________________________After school that day he walked all of his brothers back home then, under the guise of studying at a friend’s house, he left for work.He first went to the strip club as he had the first shift there at 5:00. The shifts before seven were mainly cleaning, getting ready and choosing music for the night. He wasn’t going to complain about having to scrub the bathrooms when surely, they could hire someone because it got him some extra money.After his mundane work was over the owner, a man called Sengo Muramasa, came to greet him.“Good evening Ichigo. How was school?”Sengo was very good friends with Ichigo’s headmaster and whilst he didn’t tell him he was a stripper he knew Ichigo’s real age, Ichigo was so grateful that the man still let him do the job despite being underage as he knew Ichigo’s need for money and Ichigo had refused a flat-out donation.“It was fine” Ichigo smiled politely.“Ahh cold as always” he dramatically reacted before going into what Ichigo and the other strippers referred to as ‘business mode’ “You’re on at seven today. Then personal dances until 8:30 then you can go home for supper before your other job starts at 10:00.Ichigo cleaned up and then started to get ready. For his outfit he wore black thigh-highs and a dark blue corset and pair of boxers. On top he had a white shirt and black tie with a blue and gold jacket. As he got ready he saw a figure slip into the dressing room with Sengo.“Aah, this is the new guy, please look after him.”Ichigo nodded and looked up into the eyes of his classmate Souza Samonji.Both were very surprised to see each other.“Hi Souza” Ichigo said averting his eyes“This explains why you’ve never been to any school clubs.” Souza said looking at him intently“Ahaha yeah” Ichigo laughed awkwardly“So why are you here, senpai?” Souza asked tentatively and Ichigo looked up in shock at this“Senpai? I’m in your class Souza” he replied confused“Yeah well you’re my senpai in the club because I’m new” Souza explained and Ichigo decided he couldn’t argue with that“Well, why’re you here Souza?” Ichigo returned the question, he didn’t want anyone in school to know about his situation“My parents died, and I want to help my older brother make money because he really wants to be a priest but that doesn’t pay well so he can’t yet.” Souza answered honestly.Ichigo felt guilty that he’d been too critical of Souza now. He struggled with it for a second but decided to return Souza’s honesty.Ichigo drew in a breath and explained “My mum is a prostitute and has left me with 15 siblings who are all too young to earn money,” he didn’t count Nakigitsune who was too anxious to go outside let alone have a job “So I have to pay the bills, get food and pay for their education and everything else.”Souza’s eyes sparkled for a moment as if he was about to cry.Ichigo was keen to change the subject. He knew the story of his life would make people pity him and that was not something he wanted. “Actually, I’ve been meaning to ask you something”“Yes? What is it?” Souza cocked his head“Why are you and Mutsunokami suddenly best friends?” Ichigo askedSouza looked awkwardly at the ground “….you have to promise that you won’t tell anyone”This was hardly the response Ichigo had been expecting but he nodded nonetheless.“Mutsunokami is dating my older brother.”Suddenly many things seemed to make sense. Mutsunokami’s sudden interest in religion and his transfer from the kendo club, his friendship with Souza and the young blue haired boy Ichigo had seen him pick up from school when he was picking up Namazuo, Yagen and Honebami.“That actually makes sense. Anyway, you should get changed now. Tell me if you need any help” Ichigo told Souza then went to finish his makeup and hair.He wore extensions usually as Sengo told him they made him look more androgynous and then put on some theatre foundation because of the lights in the bar and outlined his eyes so that people would look at them.He had very unusual yellow eyes and many people told him it was what made him so attractive. Mainly people who’d bought his services, but he didn’t like to think about that.Seven O’clock quickly approached and Ichigo took to the stage. By this point he was a natural and got lots of money every night but an unforeseeable problem arose in the first few minutes of his performance.A man in yellow with long white hair walked in accompanied by Mikazuki Munechika.Ichigo managed to not freeze and just paid attention to those in front of him. He took out the hair tie he had used to tie up his hair and swung around showing of his ass to the main who was clutching a lot of money. The man immediately threw it all onto stage.This money would be enough for the monthly bills and food for a week.He quickly stuffed into his boot showing of his leg whilst doing it to raucous applause.He kept telling himself he couldn’t look at Mikazuki. He would feel like he was betraying him in some way if he did.Finally, he came to the end of his act with only his corset, boxers and thigh highs still on. He turned back and pulled the line of his boxers down a little and head more money being thrown onto the stage. He turned his head and smiled at the men and for a split-second caught sight of Mikazuki’s shocked face and collected the money and left the stage.He tugged all the money out and tied it with plastic bands that he had on his dressing table and looked at Souza.“Souza, I should warn you, Mikazuki is out there” Souza looked up shocked but couldn’t do anything for he was up next.He was wearing rather a lot for a stripper. It looked very complicated to undo as well. He was wearing the thigh highs that everyone worse but on top wore a long ruby garment that reached his ankles and a gold encrusted pink shawl on top of that. For most people this mix would look strange, but it worked for Souza. He was also wearing a gold necklace, bracelet and red earrings.“Aren’t you wearing a bit much?” Ichigo asked and Souza shook his head“This is what Sengo-san got for me after he saw me dance”Well if Sengo thought it was good Ichigo wasn’t going to argue.He had a little while until his lap dances started so he peeked from behind the curtain to watch Souza.He was transfixed. Souza had an elegance he’d never seen in a stripper before.He twirled, and the shawl flew around him perfectly. He pulled of his necklace and it formed a long golden whip. He put it around the back of a man’s neck and pulled him in and kissed him on the cheek.Souza was a natural.Ichigo stopped watching there and went back and put on his shirt but left everything else there. He came through into the bit under the stage where all the guests were with the club’s main bouncer, a man named Tonbokiri who Ichigo was pretty sure was Sengo’s lover.He was escorted through the crowd like a parade to the private rooms and he casually lent against them waiting for guests to come.And come they did.As soon as they saw him next to the rooms for private dances many regulars and first timers were crowding around him.In his stripper persona he blushed and smiled seductively at the men and few women.He went into the first room and Tonbokiri sent people in one by one.The guests at this club were very well behaved they obeyed the rules and only touched you if you said they could. This might have been because Tonbokiri was the bouncer and he was 6’5 ft. with broad shoulders and he looked like he’d spent every day of his life at the gym lifting weights.The trouble came when it was about 8:20. He was exhausted from doing so many personal dances and then in walked Mikazuki.Ichigo didn’t let his persona slip and pretended to not know him.“Hello sir,” he purred seductively “what do you require of me tonight?”Mikazuki stared at him and said, “You are Ichigo, right?”Ichigo almost cracked but drew a breath and lied “Uh, no sir. Also, I am off in ten minutes so if sir does not require anything I would ask that he sends the next paying customer in.”Mikazuki laughed. He laughed like he normally does in class when he gets something wrong and brushed it off.“Ah is that so. I’m sorry to have mistaken you. But I’m paying and would like a dance” he looked at Ichigo as he said this, smiling, and held up some money.Ichigo snatched the money and put it into the bag at the side of the bed and twirled back to face Mikazuki.“Sir should know I don’t like being touched whilst I am dancing and if you do touch me you will be instantly expelled from the club.”A part of his hoped Mikazuki touched him so he’d have a reason to never have Mikazuki back in here.Sadly, Mikazuki kept his hands to himself even if he did seem flushed by the end of his time.As Mikazuki left the room, smiling, Ichigo swung the bag onto his back and made his way back to the dressing room escorted by Tonbokiri. He got to the dressing room and sat down and suddenly a flush of emotions came upon him.He liked Mikazuki.He liked his dumb smile and his dumber laugh. How he was so kind and helped everyone.How he brought in tea for Ichigo when they had long study periods.He knew now that he did like Mikazuki and Mikazuki had seen him like this and would probably never like him again.He broke down in tears for the first time in his life.He’d kept everything bottled up for so long that once released it was like opening the flood gates.He fell off his chair crying and felt himself being lifted up and taken somewhere but he couldn’t make anything out. He just kept on sobbing.After a while he felt himself being put down and a figure hugged him until, at last, he hiccupped himself into silence. He saw that he was in Sengo’s office and Tonbokiri was hugging him and stroking his hair.“Are you alright Ichigo?” Tonbokiri asked worriedly and Sengo’s face appeared next to his, equally worried.“Did one of the guests do something to you?”“No, no. I’m fine. I’m sorry Sengo-san, Tonbokiri-san. I’ve never cried before, I don’t know why it’s happening now.” Ichigo tried to stand up but felt lightheaded and fell back onto the sofa.“Ichigo, do you mean to tell me that in these 17 years, with all that happened to you, you haven’t cried once?” Tonbokiri asked sounding concernedIchigo shook his head and immediately regretted it. It felt as though his brain was rattling around inside his head.“You’re so brave Ichigo but it’s okay to break down occasionally. You’re shouldering so much by yourself” Sengo smiled whilst stroking his hair. Sengo then turned to Tonbokiri.“We have Nihongo and Otegine so I doubt you’ll be missed if you go for a short while so can you drive Ichigo home”Tonbokiri smiled and agreed and he carried Ichigo to his car after getting all of his belongings.While in the car Tonbokiri said “Ichigo, I know we only work with you, but you can come to me and Muramasa for anything. We will never judge you and we’ll be here for you.”Ichigo was very touched by this and nodded smiling weakly at Tonbokiri. Tonbokiri patted his head.After a while Tonbokiri announced they were at his house but before he got out Tonbokiri got a wet wipe and wiped his eyes.“You look less like you were crying now. I guess you’ll also want to get changed in the car and take your extensions out. I’m sorry I completely forgot to let you do it before we left.”Tonbokiri got out of the car and stood in front of it not looking inside as Ichigo made himself look presentable to his brothers.Ichigo was finally ready and also got out and paused before he entered the houseHe looked at the ground and quietly asked if he could have another hug from Tonbokiri.Tonbokiri nodded and hugged him again. Ichigo couldn’t remember much of his father but he expected that this was what a father’s embrace felt like.“Thank you, Tonbokiri-san,” Ichigo said and walked into his house.There was an uproar.“Ichi-nii where have you been? You’re always back for 8:45. Are you okay?” several of his brother asked him.He smiled. This is really what made everything worth it.He ruffled their hair and said, “Don’t worry everyone I’m fine, there was just a rather tricky question on Christianity.”
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Mutsunokami hid behind a bin as the man walked past. He was supposed to be going home straight from school but today, the same as all the days since the end of the Easter Holidays, he’d found himself tracing the route of this man on his way home from work.At the end of his Easter Holidays he’d caught sight of this man and Mutsunokami had instantly been attracted to him.Though he rarely smiled he had a kind aura. He was also devastatingly attractive. Most days his long blue hair trailed behind him but some days, when he didn’t have time to brush it Mutsunokami assumed, he had it tied up in a messy bun at the back.Mutsunokami had only been attracted to girls before but he didn’t mind being attracted to a man.The only issue is that Mutsunokami assumes the man is much older than him.He didn’t know by how much but he knew an age difference was there. The man’s face was very mature, and he definitely had a job while Mutsunokami was in high school.There was that, and the fact that the man had no idea he existed.Mutsunokami didn’t even know his name yet.He popped his head over the bin and gazed adoringly at the man before shaking himself and running home blushing.Once he was home, he ran upstairs and hid under the blanket despite his father shouting at him.He sat there under the covers thinking about how to approach this man.Then, he was struck with a thought.Did he want to approach him?What if the man found him disgusting?It was possible.Mutsunokami was only 16 and this man was surely at least 8 years older and, well, he was a man.As all of these negative thoughts were swirling through his head there was a knock at his door.“Mutsunokami? Are you alright? I brought hot chocolate” the concerned voice of his father rang out.“You can come in Pa” Mutsunokami called and his father walked in. His father was a very kind and energetic man who was the leader of a popular rock group called the Ultra Souls.He was also a great father and cared for his son a lot despite having no support from his parents or his ex-girlfriend. “Now, what’s wrong?” His father brushed Mutsunokami’s fallen hair out of his eyes.“I kinda like this guy” Mutsunokami started, looking his father for a reaction. When none came, he continued “But I’ve never spoken to him and he’s a lot older than me”“Well, firstly son you’re allowed to like guys I don’t mind. In fact, I like a guy right now. And for the age thing, I’ll trust you for now. Anyway, I think you should try to talk to him”Mutsunokami just stared at his fatherHe knew his father was chill, but he always surprised him about how accepting he was of everything. “I dunno, I’m really nervous. What if he hates me?”Ryoma hugged his son “Mutsunokami Yoshiyuki. You can do it. If it fails, I’ll always be here supporting you. Anyway, if he does hate you then he’s not worth your time”Mutsunokami smiled “Thanks Pa,” then an evil look overtook his face “so what was this about you liking a guy?”Ryoma blanched “As your father I am entitled to secrets”“As your son I’m entitled to know them” Mutsunokami fired back Ryoma held up his hands in surrender “Okay, okay. He’s one of the fans of my rock band and he’s much younger than me. He always sits in the front row of every concert I have.”“Details Pa, what does he look like?”“He’s got wavy blonde hair and these sparkling yellow eyes. He always looks happy and is just so cute.” Ryoma was absolutely smitten and Mutsunokami was so happy for his father.“Good for you Pa”Mutsunokami nudged his shoulder into his father’s“So, what does yours’ look like Yuki?” Ryoma asked excitedly“He’s got the most beautiful long blue hair and blue eyes and when he’s wearing a suit it clings to his ass so well” Mutsunokami blushed at what he’d just told his father and covered his mouth but Ryoma just laughed“Good luck to both of us, eh” Ryoma smiled “Get a start on your homework I’ll whip up something for dinner”Ryoma kissed his son on the head and went downstairs. He tried to study but Mutsunokami just couldn’t concentrate.Thoughts of the blue haired man invaded his brain and all the way down to his dick.He blushed and went to have a very cold shower.When he first saw the man, he fell in love but hoped that the infatuation would go after a few days, it had nearly been four months now and he still had a crush on him.Even after supper he couldn’t stop thinking about the blue haired man and when he went to school the next day, he’d done none of his work.The next few days too he’d found himself wandering towards the district where the man worked and then on the Friday of that week, he’d seen the man walking with Souza Samonji from his class and a small boy with dark blue hair.Mutsunokami froze.The man he had a crush on; he couldn’t be Souza’s brother, could he? Suddenly, he felt like he’d done something horrific.He had been infatuated with his friend’s brother for months.He’d been following him and basically spying on him.He and Souza weren’t exactly the closest, but it was strange to like the brother of your friend. Right? Tears trickled out of his eyes and he ran away back home.Throwing off his shoes he ran upstairs to his bedroom and slammed the door.He curled up on his bed and tears continued to fall and he hiccupped.He had to give up on him.Once he finally stopped crying his head hurt and he felt sleepy, so he gave in to slumber and fell asleep. When he woke up, he was tucked into his bed.He sat up and found a note from his father, a hot chocolate and a still-warm pizza.The note said‘Hey son, you okay? I brought you some food but if you wanna talk I’ll be in my room, I’ll try and stay awake. I love you son, no matter what.P.S Do you wanna come to my concert on Sunday. It’s my last one before I go on tour the week after next’Mutsunokami loved his father so much. He always knew exactly what to do to make him feel better. He drank the hot chocolate and took the pizza to his dad’s room.“Hey Pa, can I come in?”There was a loud thump which Mutsunokami assumed was his dad falling out of bedMoments later the door opened and Mutsunokami’s father was stood in the doorway looking slightly ruffled“Of course, son”Mutsunokami walked in sat down on the bed and held out a slice of pizza for his dad who smiled“You’re the best son ever, what did I do to deserve you” he said as he took the pizza.They ate in silence together until the pizza had all gone.Ryoma smiled at his son and said “Do you wanna talk about anything or do you want some space for a bit”Mutsunokami shuffled his feet “Can I have some space for a while?”Ryoma nodded and ruffled his son’s hair“Of course. So, for the concert Cindy, Sensei and I were thinking of doing ‘Rolling thunder’ to open, what do you think?” Ryoma asked nervously. He always depended on his son’s opinion“Good idea, but what about ‘What’s this’ to end or were you gonna do ‘Last Scream’?” Mutsunokami replied“We were but I think a full band song makes more sense” Ryoma chuckledMutsunokami smiled as he talked with his father and momentarily forgot his worries.Sunday came and Mutsunokami had managed to badger his best friend Izuminokami to come with him to the concert.In an effort to clear his mind he’d devised a plan to set up his father with the fan he liked.However, this plan depended on someone else doing it, so he’d managed to convince Izuminokami to come with him. He got to the concert and saw his target straight away. In the front row of the audience was a young adult with blonde hair excitedly chatting to everyone around him.He must admit, his dad had good taste.“That’s him. Go talk to him” Mutsunokami nudged his friend.“Why do I have to do it?” Izuminokami complained, for the billionth time“Because, idiot, if he comes to my house, he’ll recognise me” Mutsunokami sighed“Who’re you calling idiot, you moron” Izuminokami snarled“You, you stupid pig” Mutsunokami bit back“Huh! Who’re you calling a pig, you fat bastard!” Izuminokami shouted and people started to look at them“Just do it Izuminokami! Please!” Mutsunokami whispered looking at the people around them nervously“God fine. But I’m only doing this because you’ll owe me one, okay?”Izuminokami whipped around making his hair fly.Mutsunokami rolled his eyes. That was the excuse he used every time he did a favour for Mutsunokami.Izuminokami stormed over to the man annoyed at Mutsunokami for making him do his stuff again.He held back for a second as he might hear some valuable information.Like the man’s name.It was so typical of those two to like someone and not even know their name.He rolled his eyes.His patience paid off and he heard the men call the blonde one Yoshinobu.He walked up to the group and said, “Which one of you guys is Yoshinobu?”The blonde one looked up smiling.God he was adorable, Sakamoto-san had not been lying.“That’s me!”“Can I talk to you for a second?” Izuminokami asked, praying he’d say yesYoshinobu pouted “The concert will start soon though.”“Please, it will be very quick and definitely worth your while.” Izuminokami said to him hoping he was as innocent as he looked because that came out weirdly.Luckily, he was. So, the man smiled and got up.“Wait Yoshinobu-sama, should one of us come with you in case?” a man with long grey hair and an eyepatch asked looking Izuminokami up and down warily“Naosuke, I told you to just call me Yoshinobu in public and I’ll be fine”Yoshinobu smiled and Izuminokami and followed him to the side of the stand.“Yoshinobu-san what I’m about to tell you is highly confidential and you have to not mention it to anybody” Izuminokami started and the man nodded with shining eyes.“I am a friend of Sakamoto Ryoma and he’s noticed your enthusiasm in his concerts, and he was wondering if you could do a job for him?”The man almost feinted in excitement“Are you serious?! THE Sakamoto Ryoma has noticed ME?” Yoshinobu started jumping up and down in excitement“In return for a signed copy of his album he was wondering if you could take care of his son when he goes on tour and could you come to his house tomorrow to talk about it?” Izuminokami said, staying in character and trying not to laugh at this grown man’s excitement.“Oh my god yes!!!”Izuminokami sighed in relief. He’d done it.“Thank you very much, your help is much appreciated, here’s the address.”Izuminokami gave Yoshinobu a piece of paper with Mutsunokami’s address on and smiled at the man then walked back into the stand.At the end of the concert, which was superb, Mutsunokami and Izuminokami walked backstage to talk to Ryoma.Backstage was the normal crowd.Takasugi Shinsaku, Katsura Kogoro and Sakamoto Ryoma, the three bandmembers, were looking happy in their individual ways. The ex-band members Okita Souji and Hijikata Toshizo were there as well.When Souji and Hijikata had adopted two children they’d dropped out of the band and Hijikata had become a Kendo instructor that Izuminokami and Horikawa Kunihiro, a senpai who was in his 3rd year, highly respected.Otose, Ryoma’s self-appointed adoptive mother, was there as well. She was usually the one who would look after Mutsunokami when Ryoma was on tour but was too busy to do much else as she ran a pizzeria.Today she was flirting with Katsura again.“Pa! Great show today!” Mutsunokami ran forward and hugged his father who ruffled his hair.“I still can’t get over you bein’ a dad Ryoma” Shinsaku said staring at their interaction weirdly.“Cindy I’ve been a father for 17 years get over it.” Ryoma called over Mutsunokami’s head.“I agree with the hotshot,” Souji put in “It’s weird”“Your sons are in the year above! Why is it that weird?”“I guess it’d just because it’s you Tosaka-kun?”Shinsaku laughed and Ryoma jumped up and started chasing him around the room.Most of the others started laughing at the two of them.While they were preoccupied Mutsunokami lent down and whispered something in Katsura’s ear that made him squeal.Everyone turned to look at him.“Ahem don’t mind me” he blushed, and everyone pretended it hadn’t happened but Mutsunokami and Katsura continued to whisper together.The next day. Ryoma was working from home today and Mutsunokami grinned slyly at him as he was passing him to leave for school.“Have a nice day Pa.”“Okay, Mutsunokami what did you do?” Ryoma demandedMutsunokami looked at him innocently as he finished tying his shoelaces.“Nothing Pa. Well, would you look at the time, gotta go”He then zoomed off to school.Ryoma sighed and put his head on the desk.His son had definitely done something, but he had better deal with his work.He turned back to his computer, trying to come up with words for a new song.He was thinking of calling it ‘Zechou SPIRAL’Then there was a knock at the door.He called “Mutsunokami did you forget something?”But when he went and opened the door his son wasn’t there.Instead he found himself face to face with the guy he liked.His damn son, how had he managed this.The man’s eyes started sparkling “Oh my god! It’s really you! IknowyourfriendsaidnottotellanyonebutIhadtotellNaosukeandhesaidI’dbeenliedtobut you’re really here!”Ryoma was stunned, he’d never heard anyone talk this fast before but the way his eyes sparkled was adorable.He didn’t know what the man meant by his friend but he was not going to pass up this opportunity.“So, why don’t you come in and we can discuss what you were told by my friend”The man squealed and jumped inside.Ryoma, chuckling, followed him.At school, Mutsunokami was actively avoiding Souza.He hadn’t followed his brother at all at the weekend, but he still couldn’t face Souza.Even though he had Souza weren’t exactly close he still felt as if he had betrayed him in some way.He did see Souza looking a little bit upset though so that made him feel even more guilty. At lunch he was cornered by Yamanbagiri.“Souza wants to know why you’re avoiding him” he mumbled“I’m not and I don’t know what gave him that impression” Mutsunokami replied, quickly finishing his food and before leaving in a rush.Yamanbagiri shook his head in disbelief and went to sit with Souza again. What was wrong with him? Mutsunokami was debating ever going back to school again. Surely, if anyone found out they’d avoid him and never want to speak to him again.He couldn’t concentrate in lessons that afternoon and that day he was determined to head straight home.So deep in his thoughts, Mutsunokami found himself accidentally following Souza’s brother again. He’d just been walking home when he found himself at the park where Souza and his brother were with their younger brother.His younger brother was playing with a little boy with white hair and a little boy with blue hair. Mutsunokami snuck up a tree to watch Souza’s brother. All the while hating himself for being there instead of at his house.He would have jumped back down again but if he did that now, he’d be seen.He heard snippets of the conversation between the two.“So, now he is avoiding me and I’m not sure what I’ve done… Maybe he found out we don’t have parents thought it was weird.”Mutsunokami now felt somehow even worse and sighed. Then the branch he was sitting on snapped and he fell from the tree.He was going to hit the stone corner of the sand pit border and closed his eyes knowing there was nothing he could do.But then he felt long arms under him and knew that someone had caught him.He opened his eyes and looked into the pale blue eyes of Souza’s brother.“Are you alright?” he asked, concernedlyHis voice was so deep and sensual that Mutsunokami just leant in and kissed him on the lips. When he realised what he was doing he froze.Then he jumped out of the man’s arms.He looked around.Everyone was looking at him.Including Souza.“I-I uhh”He felt tears well up in his eyes and he started to run in a random direction.Away from the group.Away from Souza.He banged into things and people that he passed and hear people shouting after him.Then, he bumped into something very solid and then saw blood mix with his tears.He fell on the ground.Suddenly, he felt a hand on his arm.He opened his eyes and saw Souza’s brother“Mutsunokami, right? I’m Kousetsu, are you alright?” he asked, worry evident in his voice. Mutsunokami, then, fainted.When Mutsunokami came to he saw his father and Souza’s brother, Kousetsu, looking at him worriedly.“Hi Pa” he tried to sit up but was pushed back down by Kousetsu.“You will hurt yourself more if you sit up now,” he said in his deep voice “Are you alright?”“Yeah, I’m ,okay”Ryoma sidled out of the room and locked the door.“No more escaping it son!” he called and Mutsunokami heard him walk away.Kousetsu looked very confused.“I kinda owe you an explanation, don’t I?” Mutsunokami chuckled darkly“Do you? Why?” Kousetsu asked deeply“Why I was in that tree, why I kissed you, why I ran away?” Mutsunokami looked away from Kousetsu cursing his father for making him do this.“Oh, right that. I presumed you were looking for acorns, fell and concussed yourself then ran away from the embarrassment of kissing a man in public.”Wow this man was innocent. Or just being kind and sparing Mutsunokami’s feelings.“How old are you?” Mutsunokami asked, hoping he wasn’t too old.“I’m 29 and will be 30 in November”Mutsunokami groaned “I can’t do this”“Do what?”“I like you” Mutsunokami whispered through gritted teeth.“What?” Kousetsu asked having not heard him clearly“I like you. I think you’re really attractive, that’s why I kissed you” Mutsunokami felt tears resurfacing.“Ah I see. That explains why you’ve been avoiding Souza at school. He was very confused.” Kousetsu smiled kindly“Are you not weirded out? I’m 13 years younger than you and I’m a man!” Mutsunokami shouted“I’m not. Love is a strange thing and we cannot choose it. It chooses for us”Kousetsu climbed on the bed and hugged him“I’m sorry, I don’t know you well enough to return your feelings yet but I would like to get to know you better if you truly like me but I think, right now, your priority should be getting better.”Mutsunokami leant into his embrace and fell asleep on his lap.Calm, for the first time in days.Mutsunokami awoke and looked at the sleeping figure of Kousetsu beside him.He stared at him for a bit. In disbelief that he was here.Then, he felt a slight ‘problem’ between his legs.He turned bright red.This was mortifying.If he moved, he could wake Kousetsu up but he couldn’t do it here.It was becoming more and more painful as time went on and Mutsunokami couldn’t ignore it anymore.He slipped out of the bed as quietly as possible and immediately fell onto the ground as he felt his head ring.He had completely forgotten about his concussion.He heard Kousetsu begin to wake up, but he couldn’t stand up again.His life was officially about to end. “Mutsunokami are you alright?” Kousetsu asked and came over to him“No please! Don’t come closer” Mutsunokami shouted“It’s okay, it’s just me.” Kousetsu said, clearly thinking Mutsunokami was delirious.“That’s the problem” he mumbled as he was lifted up by Kousetsu who then saw his ‘problem’.“Aah I see. I’ll take you to the bathroom, okay?” Kousetsu carried him to the bathroom and set him down in the bath. He gave him the shower head and a toilet roll.Mutsunokami was mortified. How was this man so calm?“Usually I would offer to help but I don’t think that’s wise in this situation. I will be outside. Shout ‘I need your help’ if you want anything, I would usually say my name, but there's a chance you'd be saying that anyway.”Mutsunokami groaned in embarrassment as Kousetsu left.Even if Kousetsu had been right. When he’d finished and cleaned himself up, he shouted “Pa!”His father came in very quickly.“Are you okay Yuki?” his father asked worriedly“Can you help me change clothes?” Mutsunokami looking down slightly in embarrassment“Of course, son”Ryoma helped him change into fresh clothes and Mutsunokami noticed he hadn’t been wearing the ones he’d been wearing when he’d got concussed.“Hey dad, did you change me last time?”Ryoma’s ears turned red“Honestly son? No. Kousetsu did.”Mutsunokami groaned “He’s seen me naked and we’re not even dating yet.”“Are you not? But you fell asleep together” Ryoma seemed confused“He was trying to make me feel better. He said he’d give me a chance just he wants to get to know me better.” Mutsunokami said blushing“Aww that’s so sweet. Finished” Ryoma then tried to pick Mutsunokami up but he proved too heavy. “Okay, that guy you like definitely does weightlifting if he can carry you so easily.”“Are you calling me fat?!”Kousetsu came in at these words followed by Yoshinobu.“Hello” Mutsunokami said to Yoshinobu wagging his eyebrows at his fatherKousetsu let out a soft chuckle and Mutsunokami found his entire face go red.Yoshinobu waved “Hi! I’m sorry you’re not feeling well.”“Son, I have to tell you something. While I’m on tour I’ve hired Kousetsu to look after you as he is a doctor. He says your concussion is rather bad, so he’ll be staying here whilst I’m away.”Mutsunokami was outraged that his father had arranged for the guy he liked to stay in his house for two months without asking him but he was too tired to argue so he just nodded as he felt his eyelids begin to close.When he woke up he found a futon had been laid on the floor next to his bed. In it was Kousetsu and Souza’s other brother.Mutsunokami wondered when he had gotten here.He saw the clock opposite his bed.It was 4AM so he decided to go to bed again.He closed his eyes and soon drifted off.A little while later he felt himself being shaken awake. He opened his eyes and found Kousetsu and Souza’s brother holding out a couple of oranges to him.“.....they make you feel better” he said and then ran off.Mutsunokami appreciated the gesture so he peeled the orange and ate it.He then realised how hungry he felt and had soon scoffed the rest down as well.Kousetsu came in from Mutsunokami’s bathroom and had nothing but a towel around his waist.Mutsunokami felt his face turn red for the billionth time but he couldn’t look away.“Ah you’re awake. I’m sorry I didn’t bring my clothes with me, I thought you’d still be sleeping” Kousetsu looked at the orange and smiled fondly “Ah, I see Sayo woke you up. He was determined to try and help you feel better even though I told him to let you sleep.”“You may want to close your eyes as I’m going to change and I don’t want you to feel uncomfortable but you may watch if you wish”Mutsunokami blushed hard and closed his eyes. He knew his blush wouldn’t be the only thing that was hard if he kept them open. Even just seeing his chest was causing a reaction in Mutsunokami.He swore every second he spent with this man he fell a little bit more in love.It had started as nothing more than a crush, physical attraction but then he’d heard his voice and now he was finding out how kind and considerate Kousetsu was but he was also able to tease.A little while later he was given the okay to look again and he opened his eyes.Sayo had returned to the room and had paracetamol and water.“.....this is in case you have a headache”He put them on Mutsunokami’s bedside table and left.Kousetsu sighed fondly “I’m sorry, he means well but is very shy. Our mother thought he was too fragile for school, so he’d never been to school until this April.”Mutsunokami was almost too afraid to ask the question “Is- uhh..is-”“Is Souza here as well?” Kousetsu finished for him and Mutsunokami nodded“Yes. I will be staying here to take care of you and so I asked your father if my siblings could stay here as well as we are rather close. It is strange for you, me being your classmate’s brother?” Kousetsu questioned.Mutsunokami nodded.Kousetsu then left the room.Mutsunokami knew it. There was no way they could be together.Even if Kousetsu liked him and was not Souza’s brother, he was still a 13 year older man.He lay on his bed in a ball with his arms around his legs. A couple of minutes later Kousetsu came back with Souza, he then closed the door.“I think the three of us should talk” Kousetsu said, sitting on the bed.“I have told Souza about your feelings for me.”Mutsunokami groaned slightly“Mutsunokami I accept you like my brother, it is slightly strange but don’t worry I will get used to it. Just please don’t avoid me in school. I thought I had done something to offend you in some way. Or that you had a problem with me” Souza said, quite calmly.This entire family was too relaxed“Also, would you like me to copy up notes for you at school, I know it’s the holidays this week but that’s still three days of classes.”Mutsunokami nodded slowly“Good because school starts in half an hour. I will be going now brother”Souza then unlocked the door and left.“Your family confuses me. You’re all very relaxed and accepting of everything.” Mutsunokami says after a moment of silence.Kousetsu smiled “I’m glad we’ve become like that. We weren’t always but we went through trials together and this was the result. How are you feeling?”“Sleepy.”“Have you got a headache?”Mutsunokami paused and then felt a slight throb in his head then nodded.Kousetsu helped him sit up and take the pills then lay back down again.He sat on a stool next to Mutsunokami’s bed and put a cool towel on his forehead.“Sleep now, I will be here when you wake up”Mutsunokami was awakened by a soft laugh and opened his eyes to see his father showing Kousetsu an album.He squinted and saw it was his baby album.“Aww dad please stop embarrassing me.”“But you were so cute” Kousetsu and his father said simultaneouslyMutsunokami blushed and fell silent.His father laughed and nudged Kousetsu.“Wow I can win any argument now if you back me up.”“So, Pa, how’s Yoshinobu?” Mutsunokami countered. He was still under the weather but that didn’t mean he couldn’t tease his dad.“Yoshi’s fine.” His father said shortly, obviously trying to not go into too much detail.“Nicknames already?” Mutsunokami laughed.His father blushed and strangely, so did Kousetsu.“Yes, we are together. That’s what you wanted to know, right? I kissed him the first hour he was here. He was just so cute talking enthusiastically and I just kissed him.” His father finally caved.“Aww Pa that’s so cute. I hope you’re happy with him. Just let him know he better never hurt you in any way.”“That’s what I should be saying, you have cried and concussed yourself because of who you like.“Dad!” Mutsunokami hissed pointedly looking at Kousetsu who was looking rather guilty.“I’m sorry son I got carried away, I hope you feeling a bit better,” he turned to Kousetsu and winked “I’ll leave the album here”As soon as he’d left the room Kousetsu spoke up.“You cried?”Mutsunokami sighed, he hadn’t wanted Kousetsu to know.“It was when I realised you were related to Souza and I-I felt terrible, like I’d dirtied our relationship.”“Were there more times that your dad doesn’t know about?” Kousetsu asked gently.Mutsunokami nodded slowly “Just a couple more, don’t worry it doesn’t matter.”Kousetsu shook his head “It is not alright that I made you cry even once. I apologise”Mutsunokami blushed. Why was he so goddarn perfect?“Well, it’s fine now. Don’t worry I’ll try to get over my crush”As hard as that was going to be.Kousetsu opened the baby album again and asked Mutsunokami about some pictures. Mutsunokami reluctantly started explaining and he got to one with the whole of Ultra Souls as it was and Mutsunokami was pulling on Souji’s hair in the photo.Mutsunokami laughed “Souji still complains about me doing that when I was a child. Even now”Kousetsu blushes again and closes the album, looking him in the eyes.“Mutsunokami, if it’s not too much to ask, would you mind if I kissed you?” Kousetsu askedMutsunokami’s jaw dropped. He hadn’t expected that.He took a deep breath and then answered.“It depends why. If you’re kissing me because you feel sorry for me or if you want to see if you enjoy it, please don’t give me hope that something will happen. If it’s for...some other reason, then that’s fine.” Kousetsu crashed their lips together.It was not at all like the one in the park. This one had passion.Kousetsu leant into it and climbed onto the bed as he kissed Mutsunokami. They stayed like this for a while.Just kissing.Mutsunokami, tentatively, slid his tongue into the kiss and Kousetsu responded vigorously.Then, he reached a hand down and slid it under Mutsunokami’s top and then suddenly jumped back as if burned.“Um...Kousetsu is everything alright.” Mutsunokami asked, scared at what his answer would be.He hoped Kousetsu hadn’t realised that he didn’t in fact like Mutsunokami and he shouldn’t have kissed him.“I’m sorry I took it too far. You- I can’t.” Kousetsu took a deep breath and continued “I know you don’t want to hear it but you’re too young for me to take it to a physical level. I’m not saying this because I don’t think you’re ready, I just don’t think I am. You’re just very attractive so it’s hard to resist”Mutsunokami blushed scarlet at the last bit.“You think I’m attractive?”“Of course you are.”Mutsunokami then noticed that Kousetsu was breathing rather heavily and his face was flushed.Mutsunokami’s eyes trailed down and saw a slight bulge.“You really like me?” He honestly couldn’t believe this.“Is it not obvious? But I don’t want to have a purely physical relationship. I am a spiritual person and relationships mean a great deal to me. The age gap exacerbates this however”Mutsunokami pouted at this but he couldn’t force Kousetsu. He would respect him and wait until he was ready.“Can we still kiss?” Kousetsu nodded then excused himself and went to have another shower. Mutsunokami was not too far gone so he thought of unappealing things and his hard-on went quickly.Kousetsu soon came back, fully clothed this time and sat on the bed beside Mutsunokami and took his hand “So, tell me more about you and your family.”Mutsunokami blushed at this contact but did start talking to Kousetsu about many things. Himself, his dad’s work, his mother. The important things in his lifeKousetsu paid such close attention to what he was saying, laughed softly at the funny stories and squeezed his hand at the particularly hard ones.After a few hours he started to yawn, and his head drooped onto Kousetsu’s shoulder.“Can I sleep, do you mind?”“No, not at all, we can speak more later.”Mutsunokami’s head fell and Kousetsu tucked him into bed. Kousetsu put his hand on Mutsunokami’s head and fondly brushed his hair out of his face“Mutsunokami Yoshiyuki, what are you doing to me?” he sighedWhen Mutsunokami woke up Kousetsu wasn’t next to him. He panicked for a second but then he smelt his favourite pizza margherita,Soon after he’d woken up Kousetsu came in holding the pizza“You said this was your favourite food right?”Mutsunokami almost jumped out of bed “Absolutely!! Did you make this?”Mutsunokami was so touched that Kousetsu had not only remembered his favourite food but had handmade it for him.“I’ve developed some cooking skills from raising Sayo and Souza” Kousetsu smiled warmlyMutsunokami felt his heart shake with care and love.“Can I kiss you?” Mutsunokami asked eagerlyKousetsu gave him a small smile “Yes, just wait until I put the Pizza down”Kousetsu put the pizza on the bedside table and slid into the bed. He caught Mutsunokami’s lips and pushed him down into the bed. Mutsunokami replied enthusiastically.The two continued kissing until the door swung open and they looked up. Sayo was in the doorway holding his school bag.“...I smelt pizza”The two smiled, Kouetsu warmly and Mutsunokami awkwardly, and Kousetsu hoisted Sayo onto the bed and the three of the quickly finished the pizza.“Where’s Souza?” Kousetsu asked Sayo as the two normally came back home together“He’s at kendo club, I usually go with him but yeah.” Mutsunokami told Kousetsu who stiffened at his words“He does kendo? You do kendo?”Mutsunokami looked at Kousetsu, confused “Yeah, why?”Kousetsu drew in a long breath and said “It is rather violent. I am against all forms of violence. I prefer calmer activities, like tea making.”“You’d love Mikazuki from my class.” Mutsunokami took Kousetsu’s hand and asked, “Do you mind me doing kendo?”Kousetsu thought about it for a while then squeezed Mutsunokami’s hand reassuringly “Well, a little but I’d never want you to stop doing something you loved for me.”Mutsunokami let out a relieved sigh then lay his head in Kousetsu’s lap and asked him “Well, what are you interested in?”As Kousetsu began to talk enthusiastically about Buddhism neither of them noticed as Sayo fell asleep.School ended that Friday and Souza took Mutsunokami through what they’d done in class and slowly Mutsunokami was able to move more as his concussion died down.Then, finally the day came for Ryoma to leave on his tour.Mutsunokami smiled at his father and Yoshinobu as they collected their bags to leave.“I can’t believe you’re already taking Yoshinobu-san with you.” Mutsunokami grinned at his father and both adults blushed.“He wanted to come” Ryoma mumbledYoshinobu smiled, his eyes shining “Of course I did, Ryoma’s concerts are amazing!”Ryoma blushed again but then grinned and winked at his son “Don’t get too handsy while we’re gone.”Mutsunokami turned bright red. “Same goes for you dad”Ryoma laughs and Yoshinobu takes his hand.Eventually they finished packing with a little help from Mutsunokami and then the tour coach arrived.Ryoma kissed Mutsunokami on the top of the head, saying “See you in a couple of months son” They then headed out the door waving goodbye to Mutsunokami and the Samonjis.As soon as they’d gone Mutsunokami went past the trio straight to his room and lay down. The three looked at each other in confusion.Mutsunokami had clearly been cryingSouza nudged Kousetsu forward and he went to Mutsunokami’s room and started stroking his hair.“Mutsunokami are you alright?”Mutsunokami made a small sound that might have been intended to be a grunt of affirmation but came out as more of a squeak.“What’s wrong?” Kousetsu asked gently still stroking his hair.“mmmmhmm” Mutsunokami mumbled“What did you say?”“I can’t tell you or you’ll think I’m immature…” Mutsunokami told him as he rolled onto his side.“Please just tell me” Kousetsu pressed him“I hate it when my dad goes because I have no other family. Well, my mum’s alive but she’s married with another kid, and I never see her. Then both my parents have no siblings and their parents have disowned them.” Mutsunokami admitted.“Was that when your dad got your mum pregnant?”“Yeah, neither side was very happy and no-one except my parents wanted me but now my mum barely sees me, and my dad’s gone off again.” Mutsunokami sobbed and fell back onto the bed.He pulled the pillow over his head but Kousetsu pulled it off again.“Why would I think that makes you immature? Besides, Mutsunokami you know people care about you. I do for one. And we’re here for you now” Kousetsu took his hands.“You- you do?” Mutsunokami dropped the pillow again. He had presumed because of the kisses and everything else that had happened but hearing it said out loud was different.“I do. I have fallen for you over these past two weeks. Will you be my lover?” Kousetsu asked.He was looking straight into Mutsunokami’s eyes and Mutsunokami couldn’t do anything but nod.Kousetsu kissed him and the two leant back into the bed kissing and, later, when they went down the stairs for supper, they were holding hands.That night Kousetsu taught Mutsunokami how to make honey orange duck and orange sorbet.Apparently, due to Sayo’s love for oranges the Samonjis ate orange flavoured food a lot. Kousetsu had tied up his hair and he wore a blue hakama top with long-ish trousers. Mutsunokami felt a bit overdressed wearing a full yukata with leggings and a headband to pull back his hair.They slowly cooked together and Kousetsu never got annoyed when Mutsunokami spilled something, which he did quite often because he was rather clumsy.His dad may not look it, but he was a good cook and Mutsunokami hadn’t had to help him in the kitchen before, despite his home economics lessons at school. Just after they’d made the duck sauce and added it to the duck Mutsunokami felt Kousetsu come up behind him.He turned around and Kousetsu wiped something from his cheek with his finger and licked it.“You had some orange juice on your cheek.”Mutsunokami laughed and smiled at Kousetsu.He was becoming less embarrassed at each thing Kousetsu did.At supper when they put the food down Mutsunokami saw Sayo’s eyes sparkle even if his face looked otherwise emotionless.“...did you make this?”“Oh, I just helped Kousetsu. He did most of it”Sayo shuffled towards him and gave him a hug“...thank you. Also, if you hurt my brother I will kill you” he then shuffled back around the table and sat down.He was somehow scary despite being tiny but at the same time was utterly adorable.Souza smiled and simply said “The same from me”Kousetsu blushed at the words of his siblings.Mutsunokami stared at him in wonder.He hadn’t seen him blush yet. Kousetsu could be very cute.Kousetsu sat next to Mutsunokami and they held hands under the table as they ate.Mutsunokami learned a little bit about all three of them during the meal.Sayo really loved everyone he just didn’t know how to voice it, Souza was severely self-conscious and thought everyone was only interested in him for his looks and Kousetsu truly cared about both of his brothers and wanted to make as good a home for them as he could.He really loved not just Kousetsu but this whole family.While his father was away Mutsunokami spent a lot of time with the Samonjis. He and Kousetsu got very close and they started calling each other Kou and Mutsu.Mutsunokami also became much better friends with Souza and spent a lot of time with him, Souza even helped him prepare a surprise meal for Kousetsu.He also took Sayo to the park occasionally to play with his friends Gokotai and Taikogane and was surprised to find out that Gokotai’s brother was in his class and Taikogane’s brother was his headmaster.Sayo was very sweet and Mutsunokami quickly came to adore both of them as if they were his own brothers as well.The day Souza first worked at the strip club Mutsunokami and Kousetsu were so worried.Souza had forgotten to come up with an excuse and when he finally did come back, they both sprang up.“Souza, where were you?” Kousetsu asked worriedly“School finished hours ago, I waited for you, but you never came out.” Mutsunokami added“I was with Ichigo, we were doing cultural work at the library.” Souza explained trying to get past.“Why didn’t you tell me or Kou? We’ve been worried sick. I called you so many times. It’s 9:00 Souza” Mutsunokami demanded“Why were you worried, the only reason you’re nice to me is because you want to fuck my brother!” Souza shouted at himMutsunokami stepped back and in a small voice asked, “Do you really believe that?”Kousetsu stepped forward and slapped Souza.“Souza, Mutsu has been ringing people for hours trying to find out where you are and he even went around the city looking for you. For your information, we have not had sexual intercourse yet so he wouldn’t be doing things for that reason. Now, I believe you should apologise and then tell us what really happened.”Kousetsu seemed incredibly shocked and ashamed of what he did. He went into the kitchen and got an ice pack for Souza as he had hit him rather hard.Souza took the ice-pack and apologised to Mutsunokami who nodded and walked upstairs to his room.“Souza does it really annoy you, us two being together?” Kousetsu asked softly“No, I’m sorry brother. I shouldn’t have lashed out at Mutsunokami. I’ve had a bad day.” Souza bowed his head“No, you shouldn’t but I shouldn’t have resorted to violence, I’m ashamed of myself. I don’t know why I hit you, I’m so sorry.” Kousetsu bowed back“It’s because you love him. Love has changed you. You’re more relaxed” Souza smiled looking at his brother’s face which was much less furrowed than a month and a half previously“Thank you” Kousetsu gave him a small smile“I really was out with Ichigo, I just forgot to call. I’m sorry, I won’t forget next time.” Souza felt bad not telling his brother the truth, but he technically wasn’t lying this time.In his room Mutsunokami was huddled up and staring into his hands.As soon as he heard Kousetsu come in he asked “Do you think I’m trying too hard to be a parent towards Souza? I know he’s my age, but I couldn’t bear it if something happened to him. Or Sayo. Also, when you’re worried, I worry because I care about you Is that bad that part of me that is worried for Souza is worried because of you?”Kousetsu took Mutsunokami’s hand as he sat down.“I don’t think it’s bad, I’m very touched that you care so deeply about my feelings and naturally if you love someone you will have those feelings so no it’s not bad. Souza is complicated and I’m sure he’s just having a bad day. I’m sure he’d be very happy, as I am, that you care about our family so much. It was not fair of him to boil your feelings down to sexual attraction for me. And lastly, I think because of the way I act any partner of mine would inevitably become a sort of parent to them. Souza is trying but I think it is hard for him to adjust. We’re just going to need time.”Mutsunokami nodded, satisfied with this answer and lay down to rest before he was poked in the side by Kousetsu.“Isn’t there some homework that needs to be done?”Mutsunokami pouted “Come on Kou, I can do it tomorrow.”Kousetsu walked towards the door “Well, if you’re that eager for an early night I’d better leave too so you can sleep.”“Fine, fine. I’m doing it”Kousetsu chuckled as Mutsunokami leaped out of bed and began work on his textiles homework.Kousetsu settled on the bed reading a book about the uses of different antibiotics and all was quiet in the house.
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After supper Ichigo went to his room and snuck out the window. None of his brothers would check his room this late.Ichigo walked as quickly as he could. He didn’t want to be late for his train because dressing up for his job took a while, so he needed to get there exactly at 10.The brothel was in Shibuya as the people who hung out there in the evening tended to have money. Ichigo had decided when he was searching for jobs not to become a freelance prostitute but a courtesan as it paid better. Also, the rules on how they were treated by customers tended to be stricter.Ichigo soon arrived at the brothel and making sure no-one except the other courtesans saw him, he slipped in through the side door.As soon as he crossed the threshold a figure jumped out at him.“Haha, did I scare you?”It was his boss Tsurumaru.Tsurumaru had become the head of the brothel at the young age of 25 and whilst he wasn’t strict persay, he did take good care of his employees. He did have a terrible habit of trying to scare people though.“No Tsurumaru-san, can I go and change now.” Ichigo said with a poker face.Tsurumaru nodded looking a bit put out.Ichigo went quickly to the room he’d been given there and one of the trainees assigned to him helped him dress into his yukata.It was red with white flowers on it and the obi was blue and gold. The obi was tied at the front as was traditional with courtesans. He also had hair extensions back in but let most of the long bits of his hair trail behind him as his trainee pinned up his hair. He then began to apply his makeup. He drew a deep breath and let himself melt into his persona.He floated downstairs, nodded to Tsurumaru politelyOnce he was done, he went downstairs again.One of the other courtesans, Koryuu Kagemitsu, was already down there leading a man to his room.Ichigo heard him say “I wonder, have I found a perfect master this time?”Ichigo rolled his eyes at this. Koryuu’s ploy was making each ‘master’ he had feel special and the most loved.Ichigo sauntered outside and stood casually outside the brothel next to one of the other courtesans.Very soon a man approached him and grabbed him around the waist and pulled him closeHe whispered in his ear “Hey, how much for an hour?”“Only an hour, are you that confident in your abilities?” Ichigo chuckled smiling and copied the man’s actionsThe man grinned, clearly egged on by the challenge “Make it two then, and we can go twice”Ichigo lifted his sleeve up and grinned behind it.As he walked in, he saw a blueheaded figure stop in the road and stare at him as he walked in.Ichigo’s head snapped back around. The man looked confused but Ichigo appeased him by kissing him on the cheek.Why was Mikazuki everywhere tonight?The man paid his 3,500¥ and Ichigo led him upstairs. He tried not to think about how the door opening after him could have been Mikazuki,Once the man left Ichigo’s assistant came in, cleaned him up and helped him get ready for the next customer.Slowly men and women came and went and soon it was his ending time at 3:30AM.He said his farewells to everyone and was about to leave when he was asked to come back in by Tsurumaru.Tsurumaru drew in a breath and said “Ichigo, I have spoken to an ex-member of this house today and I was made aware that they know you as they were talking about their class. He’s very worried about you and he’ll understand your situation so I think you should speak to Jirou”Ichigo stared at Tsurumaru.Jirou, his teacher, used to be a prostitute.“Oh um...sure” Ichigo managed to get out before he left.He went home with his head in a daze and when he got home, he fell onto his bed and collapsed asleep.Waking up in the morning was always hard due to the little amount of sleep he managed to get each night. Today, he was motivated because he wanted to talk to Jirou this morning. He lugged himself out of bed but as soon as he did there was a knock on his door.When he gave permission for them to come in, his brother Midare entered.“Midare, are you alright?” Ichigo asked as he saw the tears coming from his brother’s eyes“I need to tell you something Ichi-nii.”“What is it? I promise I won’t be mad.” Ichigo took his brother’s hand“Ichi-nii. I think- I think” Midare choked out then he whispered “I may be a girl”He- they looked up into Ichigo’s eyes with hope and gripped his hands.Ichigo hugged her and when he pulled away, he calmly said “Okay Midare, I don’t know much about this subject so is there anything I can do to help you?”Midare looked down at their school uniform with the dark trousers and navy jacket.They guiltily asked “Can you buy me some girl’s clothes? I know we don’t have much money and you work really hard but-”“Of course, Midare, if that would help you.” Ichigo cut them off. He might have to work extra hours for the money, but this was definitely a necessity, he would do anything to make his siblings happy.Ichigo hugged his sibling again.“Would you like me to call you Midare or something else?”They smiled widely “Midare’s fine. Thank you so much Ichi-nii.”Ichigo dried Midare’s tears and kissed their head smiling “Okay, I’m gonna to call my boss now. I’ll see you at breakfast.”As soon as they had skipped out of the room Ichigo sighed. He’d have to take a day of work which would mean he’d have to do extra hours when he returned to make up the money. Still, it was worth it for his sibling’s sake.He picked up the house phone and dialed Sengo’s number.Sengo picked up on the first ring “Hello, who’s there?”“Sengo-san, it’s me Ichigo. I’m sorry if it’s too inconvenient but I can’t come in for my first shift today.” Ichigo said nervously, not sure what his reaction would be“Whyever not, are you alright?” Sengo asked, clearly worried because of his breakdown the previous day“I’m fine, my sibling just told me they may not be a boy so I’m going to buy girl’s clothes for them.” Ichigo said quickly hoping Sengo would be accepting of itSengo giggled happily however “Ooh how wonderful. When you come for your later shift today you’re more than welcome to see things from when I was younger?“You wore girl’s clothes?” Ichigo blurted out, surprised“I don’t really bother with gender really. It’s just a label as far as I’m concerned and, like I told my parents, I’ll wear whatever I want.” Sengo laughedIchigo could definitely imagine him saying this but he was still shocked at this revelation. He really needed to do some reading on gender identity for his sister’s sake.“Well, that’s all. Thank you very much Sengo-san” Ichigo said formally.He heard Sengo say “Anytime Ichigo, see you later” before he hung up.When Ichigo had arrived at school, after dropping all his siblings off at school, he didn’t go to revise like he normally did. Instead he headed straight for the staff office where he hoped Jirou was.Ichigo knocked on the door and asked in a loud voice “Excuse me, is Jirou-sensei here?”He heard what sounded like Tarou kicking Jirou awake and then Jirou coming to the door.As soon as Jirou saw it was Ichigo a smile came to his face “Ichigo! How lovely, would you like to chat in here or somewhere else?”Ichigo definitely wanted this to be a private chat“Somewhere else if you don’t mind” he told Jirou“Of course” Jirou smiled again and the pair left together.They went down the stairs to Ichigo’s classroom which was currently empty.“So, Jirou-sensei. Yesterday Tsurumaru-san told me that you used to work at his place”“Oh yes I d-; Ichigo, how do you know Tsurumaru-san?” Jirou’s eyes narrowed“I work at his place now” Ichigo said nonchalantly“Oh Ichigo!” Jirou’s eyes filled with empathy “Do you need money that badly? You’ve never come to me for anything and last year you told me your parents couldn’t make parents evening, so I know nothing about your family.”Ichigo felt a little guilty as it was clear his teacher had been worrying about him a lot.He needed to tell him about his situation.Ichigo opened up to Jirou about his family life and his teacher covered his mouth in horror.“Oh wow. Can I give you a hug?” Ichigo nodded and Jirou leant forward and gave him a gentle hug.“Now with the story as to why I was working there makes me sound like a brat.” Jirou laughed and then covered his mouth as if he’d just left something slip“Why were you?” Ichigo asked interestedlyJirou drew a breath and whispered “Ichigo, what I’m about to tell you, you cannot repeat to anyone ever, okay?”Ichigo was used to hiding secrets by now so he quickly said “Okay”“I had a crush on my brother” Jirou admitted quietly.Ichigo’s eyes widened, that had not been what he’d been expectingJirou continued “I thought that I was disgusting. So, I wanted a job that I thought was equal to my worth and that’s what I did. The fact that my gender dysphoria had not stopped yet didn’t help either”Ichigo couldn’t believe that his teacher had a crush on his brother but it wasn’t his life so he had no reason to judge what really piqued his interest was the mention to gender.“Gender dysphoria?” Ichigo asked interestedly“It’s when you feel distress at not being in the right body. It’s different how bad it is for each person” Jirou explained, eager to change the subject“My sibling said they might be a girl to me today and I don’t really know how to help them” Ichigo told Jirou and put his arms on the desk and leant on them“Well, already not using male pronouns is a good start. When I was younger, I thought I was a girl but it was just what society expected me to be like and wear as a man that made me question myself. I of course cannot speak for your sibling though. I was just so far in the closet, had nothing to make me appear more feminine that I could wear openly and I just felt really trapped. I was about 15 at that point but things didn’t really improve until four years ago when my brother found out about my job, made me quit and made me get my act together. The most important thing is to listen to them and always be there for them. Also, I have some girl’s uniforms that I would try on when I was younger if you’d like them to have a girl’s school uniform. Gakuran right?”Ichigo nodded“Ooh I wanna meet them so badly. I know it’s improper for a teacher to come around to their student’s house, but could I come around to meet them. I might be able to help them with some things” Jirou asked, excitedly.“Thank you so much sensei” Ichigo said, honestly.“Anytime, now Ichigo about your jobs. I know I can’t make you stop them but please come to me or Tsurumaru-san or Sengo-san if anything ever happens” Ichigo didn’t question how he knew Sengo as well.Ichigo was very glad Jirou seemed determined to keep his secret“Okay, thank you sensei”“I’m gonna go back to the staffroom now to organise things for today unless you need anything else?” Jirou asked as he stood up“No, I’m fine” Ichigo shook his headJirou smiled “See you in homeroom then” and leftMoments later Ichigo saw Mikazuki at the first door of the classroom and fled through the other one with Mikazuki shouting behind him.That probably made him seem more suspicious but after yesterday he couldn’t face him.He returned to the classroom just before the bell rang and everyone looked at himSouza said quietly “Where were you Ichigo? We were worried because you’re usually the first here”Mutsunokami shot Souza a look across the classroom after that but didn’t say anything to him. The two had been getting on so well yesterday, Ichigo wondered if it had something to do with Souza’s brother.“Sorry I was talking to Jirou-sensei.”It was technically true he just didn’t state when he had been talking to their teacher.Mikazuki shot him a look for that.Today was getting off to a great start.Soon, though, the bell rang and Jirou came in.“Morning everyone! Ready for another great day? It’s Japanese Literature, Civics and P.E today.”And then he went on like usual.At lunch Ichigo sat alone as normal and had to dodge Mikazuki who was trying to sit with him.Luckily Souza came to sit with him, giving him an excuse not to sit with the older man. Yes, older man.In fact Mikazuki had failed high school a total of 4 times. It wasn’t due to his lack of intellect. Mikazuki was very intelligent but it was because he didn’t want to leave until the youngest from his orphanage, Imanotsurugi, was in the school. That was until his mother, the owner of the orphanage, said she wouldn’t pay the bills anymore and in her words he had “better fucking graduate with a good mark”.That meant Mikazuki was currently 25 years old. All the students called him the old man of the school. So, Souza sat down but he was a little less graceful than usual.“Did something happen with Mutsunokami?” Ichigo asked and immediately wished he hadn’t“Yes!” Souza hissed “He babies me too much. I get last night I said something rude and I tried to apologise but he’s ignoring me!”“What did you say?” Ichigo asked because, fuck it, right now Souza was the only thing he had resembling a friend and he was gonna try and help.“Okay, don’t judge me I was mad, I said the only reason he cared about me was because he wants to fuck my brother” Souza explained“Jesus, why did you say that?” Ichigo asked shocked“I came back from the club late and I was in a bad mood then they were waiting for me, together, and I snapped.” Souza said eating viciously before sighing and putting down his chopsticks “I really want to accept those two being together but it’s hard to see a guy your age, who’s in your class, being domestic with your 13 year older brother.”“Maybe just try and explain that and try to apologise again?”Souza sighed “You’re right”The two ate in silence after that.After the meal the two cleared their place when someone caught Ichigo by the wrist, it was Mikazuki.“Can I speak to you Ichigo?”Ichigo nodded, knowing he couldn’t get out of this one.The two found an empty classroom and sat down after closing the door.Mikazuki then spoke “Ichigo, I know that was you last night in the club and brothel. Please just tell me why.”“My family needs money.”Mikazuki looks confused “Can’t your parents get the money?”“I don’t have parents, and you better not tell your mother this. The reason I’ve managed to do everything so far is because it’s the only way to keep us together.” Ichigo begged“Us? You have siblings?” Mikazuki asked surprised“I have 15” Ichigo laughed falsely“You’re taking care of yourself and 15 siblings alone?” Mikazuki’s eyes shined, not in pity like many others had but in admiration.“Yes” Ichigo answered proudly“Please let me help you.” Ichigo crumpled, he should have seen it coming. Did no-one realise it was his responsibility? He had made his father leave home and it was him who made his parents get a divorce and it was him who had ruined his mother’s life.This was the least he could do.He shook his head“Ichigo I saw your expression last night when you saw me. It wasn’t a ‘oh no a member of my class saw me’ face. You do like me, don’t you?”That was not where Ichigo had thought that was going to go. But that didn’t mean he was happy with this change of subject, especially since he realisation the day previously.Ichigo felt tears well up in his eyes but he wouldn’t let them out. He looked down at his hands, clenched together on the table, he chose he next words carefully.“Yes. But nothing can happen, I’m too busy and who would want second-hand goods like me anyway”Mikazuki grabbed his shoulder and made Ichigo look into his eyes.They were a beautiful deep blue with what looked like an upside-down crescent moon in his pupils.“Never say that about yourself Ichigo. I truly love you. Come with me, I’m gonna make a pot of tea for you and we’re going to talk but first I have a slight confession.”Mikazuki looked a little guilty which confused Ichigo.“What is it?”“What’s your opinion on polyamory?” Mikazuki asked awkwardly“On what?”“Polyamory is the practice of or desire for intimate relationships with more than one partner, with the knowledge of all partners. It has been described as "consensual, ethical, and responsible non-monogamy" Mikazuki said, obviously quoting from something.“Um...I guess I wouldn’t mind”“Okay good because I’m polyamorous and since you said you weren’t interested in me yesterday, before I saw you, I kinda asked out another person I had a crush on.” Mikazuki confessedIn the tearoom Ichigo, Mikazuki and Yamanbagiri sat around the table drinking tea.“Sooo, have you two ever talked?”Ichigo and Yamanbagiri shook their heads and Mikazuki smiled“Well that means we have more to talk about. I don’t know how you two feel but I want to seriously consider a polyamorous relationship with you two. What do you two feel?” Mikazuki started then looked at Yamanbagiri who mumbled“I don’t really mind”Ichigo drew a breath and said “I’m sorry but today is really not the day to talk about this with me. I’m quite busy and dealing with a lot so I’m sorry but I don’t think I can have this conversation yet.”Mikazuki sadly nodded and pat his arm.Ichigo then exited the room.He could not deal with starting things with his sibling, his jobs and starting a relationship which needs a lot of communication in the same day.He might consent one day but today is not that day.After his one-hour P.E lesson, where his class was doing gymnastics, he headed home. He had decided to do lots of the revision he hadn’t been able to do in the morning and at lunch.However, when he finally sat down, he found sadly he couldn’t concentrate thinking all about the Mikazuki and Yamanbagiri situation.This was really starting to worry him. If he couldn’t do his work, then he couldn’t get the special offer from any universities.He paced around for a while trying to clear his head and then made a decision.He picked up his phone and called Tonbokiri.The man picked up quickly “Ichigo, are you alright?”Ichigo stumbled over his words nervously. He was usually confident, but this week had been trying.And it was only Tuesday.“Yes. I just...didn’t know who else to talk to. Is it okay if I talk to you about some things?”He could almost hear Tonbokiri’s smile at his words.“You can come to me for anything Ichigo. I may just be the bouncer at a place where you work but I do want to help you” Tonbokiri said kindly and there was a scraping sound that sounded like a chair being dragged and a man sitting on it.“Thank you so much. So many things have happened today and I’m slightly worried” Ichigo tried to sound calm and he filled Tonbokiri on everything that had happened since he’d left the club yesterday.Tonbokiri let out a deep breath when Ichigo had finished.After a few moments he gave Ichigo some advice.“Why don’t you record your notes so you can listen to them as you are getting ready for your jobs? That way you can revise whilst earning the money you need. As for your sibling, I’d say follow your teacher’s advice and don’t worry about it too much, you’re doing fine. With the relationship I’d say go for it,”Ichigo was surprised at this, most of the other advice made sense to him but this seemed to come out of the blue.“I think you need someone to lean on. You can come to me with your problems but I think that having someone there for you in your everyday life could help you greatly. Also, they could help you manage your siblings while you’re out as one of them knows about your jobs. Ichigo, I know you love your siblings but don’t make yourself miserable trying to care for them. They would never want that”Ichigo smiled and felt like his head was a bit clearer, he was glad he’d called Tonbokiri.“Thank you very much Tonbokiri-san. You’ve gone out of your way for me and I cannot emphasise enough how much I appreciate it.”He almost bowed to the phone.Tonbokiri laughed “Don’t worry about it. Hope the rest of your day is better. I’ll see you at work”He then hung up.Ichigo managed to do the work he needed to do and then went into Nakigitsune room where he was surrounded by the youngest of his brothers and he smiled.“Hey all of you”“Ichi-nii!”They ran up to him and hugged him tightly.Nakigitsune smiled at his older brother. Using his fox as a ventriloquist's dummy he asked Ichigo if he was okay.“I’m brilliant. I just wanted to ask a favour of all of my youngest brothers as I have a job that only you guys can do”His brothers looked very excited and they jumped up and down.“What is it Ichi-nii?” “Of course we’ll help you”Ichigo smiled at the enthusiasm.“So, I’m having less time to revise recently so my boss thought that I could make recordings of my work so I can revise whilst working. So, I was wondering if you guys could do that for me?”He didn’t like making his brothers do things but he was aware that he couldn’t buy them many things that normal children liked and so they got terribly bored.Akita the oldest of the youngest nodded excitedly.“Nakigitsune-nii has been teaching me the alphabets so I can read really well.”The others also all agreed and soon afterwards his youngest siblings were recording themselves reading out Ichigo’s notes with scribbles and whispers from Nakigitsune to help them read it.Ichigo smiled and played with them until Midare came to find him in their room.Midare smiled as they walked into the room, seeing their brothers playing and recording themselves reading.Ichigo returned the smile when he saw them and kissed all of his brothers before leaving the room with Midare.“Before we go Midare, my teacher’s gonna come and talk to you if that’s okay?” Ichigo asked lightlyMidare panicked.They thought that Ichigo had sent a teacher to talk them out of being themself.Their eyes welled up and they started to sniff “Wh-why? I’m not strange Ichi-nii, I-”Ichigo also began panicking when he saw his sibling’s reaction “No, no it’s nothing like that”.He hugged her and kissed their forehead.“My teacher has some girl’s clothes they wanted to give to you including a female Gakuran. They also struggled with gender when they were younger, so they wanted to talk to you about that.” he explainedMidare instantly brightened up. They wiped their tears “I can have a girl’s uniform?”“Yes”Midare squealed and hugged Ichigo.When Jirou arrived they walked in and saw Midare.“Hi, are you Ichigo’s sibling?” He asked softlyMidare nodded excitedly.“Wow, you’re very pretty.” Jirou said kindly and Midare blushed happily at the compliment.Jirou began taking out clothes and Midare tried them on. With each outfit their grin grew a little and Ichigo was so happy at seeing his sibling happy.Their little fashion show attracted the attention of the entire household and they all came down. They cheered at their favourites and Midare practically was glowing.Luckily most of them fit and Midare was beside themselves with happiness.When they tried the gakuran on they actually started crying.They ran up and hugged Jirou.“Thank you so much. I’ve never truly felt like myself until today.” They criedJirou looked at Ichigo, who nodded, and hugged Midare back.“Anytime my little Padawan.”He ruffled their hair and brought out a parcel.“This is a special gift from me.” He saidIn the parcel were two red ribbon clips and some hair extensions for Midare’s rather short hair.Jirou gestured to Midare’s and asked permission to change it.Midare nodded excitedly and Jirou got to work.He braided the front of their hair and put a red clip at the top of each braid. He threaded the rest of the hair in expertly and ruffled it to look more natural.When Midare looked in the mirror they was so happy they started crying again.“Thanks for everything Jirou-sensei” Ichigo said as the teacher was leaving.Jirou smiled “They are so sweet ichigo, you better take good care of my Padawan”Ichigo didn’t know what that was but he laughed anyway.Inside, Midare was answering questions to all the others and they were talking avidly.Midare bounced up to Ichigo “I don’t think I am a girl. I just don’t like wearing boys’ clothes. Is that okay?”Ichigo hugged him “Of course that’s okay Midare. I love you”Ichigo just stood by the door and watched them.There was nothing better than seeing them happy.
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Chapter 4:
Saying Jirou had had a difficult life would be an understatement.Jirou had realised at age 7 that he wasn’t always a boy.At age 10 he’d been sent to juvie for underage drinking, but was soon let out for good behaviour.At 15, after trying to mutilate himself with a knife, he realised he was in love with his brother.As soon as he was 18 he left home in the dead of night, so his brother couldn’t stop him, and became a prostitute.The brothel he chose to work at was in Shibuya and was called ‘The White Crane’. It was run by a couple called Masako Gojou and Rikka Gojou and helped by their son Tsurumaru Gojou.He was about 20 and had a plan to inherit the brothel in 5 years which was extremely early for usual brothels.After working there for a short while he had procured a permanent room at the brothel.He could go out during the day, when he wasn’t working, if he wanted.He rarely did though.He knew Tokyo was massive and he had very little chance of seeing his brother.But he still had that fear. So, he stayed in his room.For years he didn’t leave the confines of the building.He knew everyone worried about him, but he didn’t care.He rarely cared about anything anymore.Even though he had taken this job as punishment on himself for his immoral thoughts. he still enjoyed his work.The feeling that one person was focused on him and he was making them happy managed to sustain him.Despite only having to please the customers as his part of job. he was eventually dragged out by the family to help them with errands. It was a hard battle to force him to leave but eventually he yielded when they told him the lack of sunlight was affecting his looks and might make him less desirable to customers.He went to the shops with one of them every week for food and other household necessities.Over the years this slowly became two days a week but he would never agree to go more times than that.He watched as other prostitutes came and left and slowly he became the only constant in the building.The Gojous unofficially adopted him as their other child and treated him like a son, Tsurumaru treated him like a younger brother and he found out what this relationship was supposed to be like, for a normal person.Then, on the day of Jirou’s 23rd birthday Tsurumaru announced that he was taking over the establishment and the Gojous forced him to move into their new house. away from the brothel.That was when his regular life collapsed.A month after his birthday, they had moved into the new apartment and there was a knock on the door.He offered to get it and answered the door. as the other two were unpacking.The man started to say “Hi! I’m…”But his voice died out as soon as he looked at Jirou’s face.Jirou found himself looking into the eyes of his older brother Tarou.The shock on both of their faces was evident.They stared at each other.Then, Jirou shook himself at the sound of Masako and Rikka walking up behind him.“Hey, are you two okay? Do you know each other?” Masako askedJirou slammed the door and ran into the room the couple had kindly picked for him.He hid under the covers and felt tears fall down his face.After all this time why had nothing changed?Why did he still feel the same as all those years ago?It had been five years since he last saw his brother, but his heart was racing and his face was red.He was still the sick freak he had always been.Why was Tarou here?Jirou curled into a fetal position and began to shake.Very soon there was a knock at his bedroom door and Rikka came in.“Chiyo are you okay? That was your brother, right? Why are you hiding from him?”Jirou sobbed at this“Yes, that was my brother, he-he’s the reason I do this job. I never thought I’d see him again, I never wanted to see him again.”Jirou realised he was still in his prostitute yukata as he looked down at himself.He let out a dry wail.There was no way Tarou couldn’t know from seeing him.His brother, who he was in love with, knew he was a prostitute.God Jirou needed a drink.He stumbled into the kitchen, but before he could grab the sake Rikka lifted it out of his reach.“Uh-uh you are not stress drinking. You are going to go and talk to your brother. If this is your immediate reaction, you have some things you should sort out with him.”“But you don’t understand Rikka!” Jirou pleaded“Then help me understand!” Rikka returned“I’m in love with him.” Jirou looked up and saw Masako and Tarou in the doorway.Tarou’s mouth was wide open in shock.Jirou fled. He ran out of the apartment.
Tarou knew. Oh god he knew.
He ran past people in the street who shouted after him as he knocked into them.
I don’t deserve to live. I’ve been hiding from my immorality for years.
He ran to the brothel and locked himself in the kitchen. There was banging at the door as Tsururmaru was asking what was going on.
I have to end it. End me.Tarou is too pure to be tainted by me.
Jirou took out a knife and slashed across his wrist.Outside there were screams as others saw what he was doing.He slashed both his wrists then, fumbling from the blood and pain, stabbed himself in his abdomen.
Tarou, I love you. And I’m sorry.
He then blanked out.The sound of beeping and a faint snore entered into his ears. Jirou felt something soft under him but couldn’t feel much else.Surely if there were an afterlife he would have gone to a worse one. Not one that felt as gentle as this.He opened his eyes.He saw a lot of white but everything was a bit fuzzy.He felt heat radiating from somewhere next to him.The snoring stopped.“Jirou?”He felt his blood turn cold. He knew that voice.If there was a god, he was certaining taunting Jirou.“Jirou are you awake? I’ve been so worried. We thought you’d died” So, he was still alive.Then this was the real Tarou. Why was he here?Why did he still care about Jirou even after he’d found out.“Jirou, you’ve been in a coma for 5 months.” He had what? That long?Well, if it had been longer then maybe they would have turned off his life support machines which must be the ones doing the beeping.Why could it not have been longer? “Jirou please answer me. Your eyes are open, aren’t they, tell me I’m not just imagining this.”“.....you’re not” Tarou sighed in relief and fell back down into the chair. “Jirou I was- I was so worried. Why would you do that to yourself?” Tarou pleaded and Jirou could tell he was being stared at.“...Do you even have to ask why? I’m just a sick freak who’s in love with their brother.” Jirou said bitterly“So, you were telling the truth?” Tarou asked and Jirou couldn’t ascertain the tone of his voice.“Did you come here hoping that I’d tell you differently? I’m sorry but it’s true, you can leave now if you want”“But I don’t want to. Jirou, you’re a very emotional person but did it never occur to you to talk to me” Tarou took his hand but Jirou shook it off“I didn’t want you to know”“So, you ran away and became a prostitute??” Tarou asked incredulously“Yes, that is what happened.” “Jirou, I-I feel the same. I love you too. I’ve been searching for you ever since you left. I was going to talk to you about my feelings but I thought you left because you had found out and I felt the same as you do now but I had a very good friend help me through that so I didn’t try to kill myself because that was a very distinct possibility” Jirou fell silent, dumbfounded.He didn’t know what to say.It couldn’t be, true could it? Tarou sighed “Look Jirou, please don’t go back to your job. I’ve got a position teaching and you could become a teacher too. My headmaster is super lax, if you have the skills, he doesn’t care if you have a degree or not.”Jirou shook his head “Sex is the only thing I have any talent for”Tarou clutched his hand desperately “I’m sure that’s not true. You care about people and you’re kind. Please come back to me, please be my family again”Jirou felt his stomach twisting at those words “So we can’t be together?”“You’d want to?” Tarou asked. Jirou could feel his pulse quickening“I would. A lot” Jirou never imagined this could be in the realm of possibility but here he was. Asking Tarou to date him.“So would I”Tarou leans down and kisses Jirou gently Jirou feels tears splashing him.“I’m so happy Jirou” Tarou smiles and Jirou can’t help but smile back. His first honest smile in years.And he was crying too. This brought the doctors in but Jirou stayed holding Tarou’s hand.He would never be alone again.
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Ichigo soon left after the fashion show and arrived at the strip club. He surveyed the club from behind the curtain to gauge what the audience might like.In the audience he saw the man in yellow again from the previous day.He approached Sengo. “Sengo-san who’s the man in yellow?”“That’s Kogitsunemaru. He works with wild animals but is also a bit of a pervert I think as he’s in here every night. You only noticed him because he came with your boyfriend, right?” Sengo winks at Ichigo who blushes.“Mikazuki isn’t my boyfriend…” Ichigo protests“Whatever you say.” Sengo turns around and returns to his office.Ichigo walks onto stage and notices something weird. Kogitsunemaru is the only person, who is not staff, to not be looking at the stage. He was on his phone, texting.Ichigo stripped off slowly, still watching the man. Once customers started to notice, he quickly looked away and focused on those at the front. After his time was up he went behind stage.Sengo tapped him on the head a little forcefully. “Never do that again Ichigo. Please I know you need this, but I can’t have you loosing focus.”“I’m sorry Sengo-san” he bowsSengo nods and Tonbokiri comes backstage. “Ichigo. Kogitsunemaru has requested you for a room”The club alongside lap dances and the stage had personal rooms that people could hire to have parties in, usually stag or hen nights, and in those rooms they could hire dancers.“I told him you didn’t perform that service but…” Tonbokiri looked down, a little embarrassed to be asking Ichigo.“I’ll do it, I’ll just text my brothers” Ichigo agreed wearily.Ichigo texted Nakigitsune that he was staying overnight with a friend and then followed Tonbokiri to the room. In the room were five men. Kogitsunemaru, two men he didn’t recognise, Tsurumaru-san and Mikazuki.Ichigo bowed staying in character and smiled flirtily as Tonbokiri went to stand outside.“Ichigo, you don’t have to do that.” Mikazuki smiled kindly.Ichigo sighed “How much are you paying for this room may I ask?” he didn’t drop his demeanour“The normal price plus a bit extra.” “Well you’re paying, if that is what you want.” He sits on the table “Why are you here Mikazuki?”Tsurumaru laughed “It’s so weird seeing you relax”Ichigo bows his head to Tsurumaru.“Tsurumaru-san”A man with brown hair flinched “Why do I have to be here? Can’t I go back to the temple?”“Why are these four here?” Ichigo pointed at Kogitsunemaru, Tsurumaru, the man with brown hair and a man with pinkish blonde hair with weird bits at the front.“Kogitsunemaru was already here, Tsurumaru was o- with me, Iwatooshi wanted to meet you and we didn’t want to leave Ishikirimaru out.”The man with brown hair, who must be Ishikirimaru, grumbled at that.“So? Yes? Just so you know I told my brothers I wasn’t coming home to do this, you better want something good.” Ichigo asked, slightly aggressively.Mikazuki looked sheepish. “Well, you’re always busy or avoiding me so I thought if I paid you, you might not run away”Ichigo rolled his eyes “I am busy, do you know how much I have to earn every day?”Mikazuki flinched “Can I help?”“I can do it on my own, thank you”Tonbokiri leant behind the curtain “He means he’d love help but he’s really bad at accepting things from others”Ichigo flushed and wanted to tell Tonbokiri to shut up but he couldn’t do that to his boss’ lover. And, he also really liked Tonbokiri.“I’ll help you with anything Ichigo.” Mikazuki assured him, encouragingly.“Fine. Make sure my brothers don’t end up in your mum’s orphanage” Ichigo snapped a bit.At that Kogitsunemaru, Iwatooshi and Ishikirimaru flinched.Mikazuki looked at them then at Ichigo “My three brothers here are all orphans”“I’m sorry but I know that younger children get adopted and 10 of my brothers aren’t even at double digits yet. I can’t let that happen.”Mikazuki nodded solemnly “I understand. Are you sure there’s not anything?”“There’s nothing. Sorry, I really would love to get home. My brother Nakigitsune can’t manage with all of them for long without me.”Kogitsunemaru dropped his phone and quickly covered up his shocked expression and hid his face.Mikazuki looked at his phone. “Why did you drop it? There’s nothing weird on there.”“Nakigitsune is in my special needs class” he gulpedIchigo gaped.As Nakigitsune was also Ichigo’s father’s son, his father paid for Nakigitsune to go to a program that took children with mental disabilities and helped them by using animals and letting the children care for them.“I volunteer every month and he’s there.” Kogitsunemaru explained“Yeah but why did you drop your phone?” Ichigo prodded him“Um….no reason, I was just shocked that that was your brother”It was so obvious that it was a lie but none of them pressed it.“I’ll drive you home Ichigo.” Mikazuki saidIchigo reluctantly agreed and went to go change. Ichigo met Mikazuki and Kogitsunemaru in the car.“I thought Nakigitsune-kun might be excited to see his instructor” Mikazuki smiles and Kogitsunemaru gulped.Ichigo said nothing to that. He just sat in the back and gave directions to his house.He unlocked the door “I’m back everyone”Immediately, excited voices rang out and all his brothers came to greet him.Ichigo explained that his friend had wanted to come over to Ichigo's house instead.Mikazuki and Kogitsunemaru were brought in by Ichigo. His brothers whispered excitedly as they never had anyone around.Nakigitsune actually dropped his fox upon seeing Kogitsunemaru.“Um…hi Naki-kun.”“Kogitsunemaru-sensei.” Nakigitsune walked over and hugged KogitsunemaruIchigo, all of his brothers and his sister gaped at this.Kogitsunemaru pushes Nakigitsune away a bit.“It’s nice to see you too. My brother goes to school with your brother and he brought me along because he thought you might be happy to see me” he explainedNakigitsune nods “I am happy. Can you stay for supper? And can you finally tell me your phone number?”Ichigo cleared his throat. “Can all of you please go to the dining room? I need to talk to these two alone.”Nakigitsune picked up his fox and reluctantly followed his siblings into the dining room.Ichigo turned to Kogitsunemaru, shaking with rage “What have you done to my brother? Have you been seducing him?”Kogitsunemaru shook his head fervently“I just work with him the most, so I think he got attached to me. Also I helped him train his fox” Kogitsunemaru’s voice did not portray 100% honestly but Ichigo did not press it, for now.Ichigo grimaced “My brother doesn’t act like that with anyone. I’m keeping an eye on you. You’re both welcome to supper but it won’t be enough food for you, probably”Ichigo averted his eyes at this, he hated being poor.They went into the dining room and found all of the brothers sat at the table, some of the younger ones in others’ laps, and waiting for Ichigo.Each person had half a bowl of rice with some egg mixed in and a small plate of cabbage. Except for Mouri who was still on baby food.Ichigo sat down at the top end of the table and Mikazuki and Kogitsunemaru also sat down but at the bottom.“Don’t worry about us, we’ve already eaten” Mikazuki smiled and gave his portion to Honebami who had Hakata on his lap.Kogitsunemaru gave his to Naki, who smiled.“Hakata, what do you say?” Honebami poked him.“Thanks!” Hakata mumbled and points to his twin Houchou.Honebami gave half of Mikazuki’s serving to Houchou as well.“Now everyone, let’s thank Ichi-nii and Yagen for the meal” Namazuo said and a chorus of voices from around the table thanked the two brothers for the meal.Mikazuki felt his heart melt as he looked around at all the brothers gently helping each other. Although Ichigo was the ringleader, it was clear that they were all raising and helping each other. Mikazuki now understood why Ichigo wouldn’t let them go to an orphanage. These brothers couldn’t survive without each other.Ichigo smiled at Mikazuki and Mikazuki smiled back. After the meal Nakigitsune came to Ichigo to ask if Kogitsunemaru could stay the night.“Naki, why do you want him to stay?” Ichigo asked calmly“I like him…” Naki held his fox close “Please Ichi-nii. He’ll be very good with us…”Ichigo was again a little upset about the power his brothers held over him“Okay, but only if he agrees and you will not push the matter if he says no”Naki went up to Kogitsunemaru to ask but Kogitsunemaru got on one knee and put his hand on Naki’s shoulder.“Nakigitsune, I am an instructor to you. It would be highly inappropriate for me to stay. Especially considering the age difference. I will see you this week end anyway.”Naki nodded sadly and walked upstairs to his room.“Maybe you’re not as bad as I initially thought.” Ichigo pondered.“Why did you think me bad?” Kogitsunemaru asked, genuinely confused.“Because I met you at work?” Ichigo raised an eyebrowKogitsunemaru nodded “Ah yeah. Anyway, I’ll leave you two alone. It was nice officially meeting you”Kogitsunemaru left the house and walked to his own house.“I’m sorry but I need to go to bed, I’m very tired.” Ichigo wasn’t tired at all but he needed to slip out to go to his next job.“Can I stay overnight?” Mikazuki asked politely“No,” Ichigo winced at how fast that came out “Not tonight. Sorry”He went upstairs and to his room. He quickly slipped out of the window with the rope his kept in his room. He was about to head to the train station when he saw Mikazuki standing by his car.“Very tired, huh?” he sounded a little tense“Shhh, my brothers could hear you” Ichigo hissed “Yes, I wasn’t tired. I just need to get to my next job.”“You do both every night?” Mikazuki sounded surprised“Yes, now I need to go, or my regulars might go to someone else” Ichigo made to leave but Mikazuki caught his arm“You have regulars at a brothel?” Mikazuki asked, sounding a little upset.“Look, I can’t control them and to me, they are only a way of getting money. Now can you let me go” Ichigo tried to take his arm back but found that Mikazuki’s grip was very strong.“I’ll drive you” Mikazuki said and pulled Ichigo into his car. They arrived at the brothel and Ichigo said a firm farewell and heads to his room to change.Mikazuki was left outside, a slight pain in his chest at watching Ichigo head into that building.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Sengo had worked at the strip club ‘Tortoise shell’ since he was 19 in college so it was getting on for four years now. He had just graduated and been disowned by his parents when he told them he wanted to be a professional stripper instead of an engineer like they’d wanted. He had quite a lot of money saved up so he bought his own apartment and started to live alone. He yawned as he drove to work. He was bad at getting to sleep after work, no thanks to his boss Kikkou. He had recently gotten into a relationship with Kikkou who didn’t touch him at work but once they got home was more than happy to indulge in his love for shibari, so Sengo was getting pretty used to being tied up. And Kikkou had quite the stamina.He entered the club as saw Kikkou puzzling over a schedule. He was early and none of the other dancers were there yet so Sengo dared to go over and kiss his boyfriend on the neck.“You look troubled”Kikkou pushed Sengo away, reasonably gently “Not at work Sengo. But yes, recently our bouncer Oodenta quit and I interviewed a new candidate for the position and I want to hire him but I’m not sure about his shifts. Oodenta tended to handle later in the evening when customers got rowdier but I don’t want to saddle the new guy with handling horny, drunk men immediately.”“What if Nihongo take two of the late shifts and the new guy can start off with two earlier and two later and see how he handles things?” Sengo suggested.Kikkou looks at him surprised “That’s a good idea. You’ve been helping me quite a lot recently. You actually have quite a good eye for management.”Sengo laughs “Ugh. Boring. I will never get roped into doing that. I much prefer stripping.”Kikkou smiles and squeezes his hand. That was about the only pda he would allow at work.“The new bouncer Tonbokiri will be here soon as I wanted him to meet all the dancers.”He began to walk to his office but stopped then grinned “Be careful to not get charmed. He’s exactly your type”Slowly the other dancers began to trickle in and then a man with long reddy-purple hair and the most muscular arms Sengo had ever seen in his life.Sengo actually swooned.Kikkou laughed and began introducing Tonbokiri to everyone“-and finally, this is our star dancer. Sengo Muramasa. Known as Lotus on stage.”Tonbokiri looked at him and blushed “It’s nice to meet you Sengo.”Sengo decided he wanted to tease the man a little. He smiled at him then pulled on his own jacket, as if to slip it off “Shall I get naked for you?”Tonbokiri turned bright red and started stuttering.Sengo laughed, this guy was going to be fun to tease.Kikkou smiled “Please don’t take Sengo too seriously. He loves to joke about stripping.”“Anyway, Sengo you’re first on tonight so can you go change”Sengo nodded and winked at Tonbokiri “You can watch if you would like”Kikkou gave Sengo a look “Sengo, you’ve had your fun. Now, let’s all get back to work.”Slowly Tonbokiri adjusted to the club and to Sengo’s constant teasing of him. Sengo continued his relationship with Kikkou but he was noticing he was losing interest in Kikkou as a boyfriend. Sengo felt bad about it but he had really started to fall for Tonbokiri and had had some wet dreams about him while over at Kikkou’s apartment. He tried to hide them and tried to think that they were just dreams and that he would never cheat.Then Sengo moaned Tonbokiri’s name whilst having sex with Kikkou.Kikkou sighed and stopped what he was doing. Sengo covered his mouth and cursed himself.“Sengo, this is not the best moment but we need to talk about this”Sengo nodded and Kikkou pulled out of him.Kikkou sat down and untied Sengo. Once he was free Sengo finally confessed to his feelings for Tonbokiri and how his feelings for Kikkou were changing.“This is not the best time to talk about it but I guess I should say now. I was actually thinking about breaking up with you” Kikkou said, surprising Sengo.Sengo looked up at him “I’m so sorry. I know this is my fault and-”Kikkou silenced him with a kiss “Actually, it has nothing to do with you. I am thinking to change jobs. Taikogane is turning 10 soon and Monoyoshi is turning 7 soon and I feel like I need a more respectable job for my brothers’ sake.”“So, you don’t think it’s a respectable job?” The words hurt Sengo as they were the ones shouted at him by his parents before he was made to leave.“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean for it to come out that way. I think for me, supporting my two young brothers. I want to have something I can talk to them about. And a job which means we can spend time together because they’re away during the day and I’m away during the night. And they are the people most important to me.” Kikkou explained“And I think, while I’m moving on from this place, I think I should start afresh. You falling for Tonbokiri is a good thing. I know I won’t hurt you by leaving you all alone.”Sengo nodded and decided to get changed.“Who are you going to appoint to run the club instead of you? None of the others know anything about managing a business” Sengo scoffed. He liked his co-workers, they could just be a bit flaky. “No, but you do” Kikkou said, putting his underwear back on.Sengo shook his head “Oh, no! You are not landing me with the job of running your club!”“Please Sengo. There is no one else I can rely on.” Kikkou gave Sengo puppy dog eyes which made Sengo snort.“Fine, but you better get me an assistant.” Sengo finally cavedKikkou grinned “Thank you!”“So, I guess one of us should say it then”Kikkou nodded “Sengo? Shall we break up?”Sengo kissed Kikkou and smiled “One last one for the road. Now you better not delete my number or anything. We’re still friends, okay?”Kikkou smiled “I wouldn’t dream of it.The next day Sengo got to work early and Kikkou was waiting for him and began to walk him through everything he had to do.“And my assistant?” Sengo asked, once Kikkou was mostly done.“Ah yes, you can come in now!” Kikkou called and in walked Tonbokiri.Sengo shot a quick glare at Kikkou who had definitely planned this.“Tonbokiri, meet your new boss. Sengo. He will be taking over for me once I leave and he asked specifically for you to be his assistant.”Tonbokiri blushed and smiled and Sengo “Well then I hope I don’t disappoint.”The next few weeks were hectic with forms being signed, Sengo trying to inform customers that he was not dancing anymore and Kikkou becoming the new headmaster of an arts school nearby.Sengo worked as hard as he possibly could. He hadn’t really wanted the job but Kikkou had worked hard on the club and Sengo wasn’t about to let that all go to waste.The others constantly told him that he was working too hard and he never listened to them, until he landed himself in hospital due to passing out from overwork.When he came to Sengo felt his hand being held and opened his eyes to see Tonbokiri sitting by his bedside.Tonbokiri saw his eyes opened and sighed in relief.“I told you that you were working too hard”Sengo chuckles “Yeah, guess I was. Anyway, when can I be discharged?”“So, you can go back to work?” Tonbokiri asked, scowling slightly.“I’m the only person who can do the job!” Sengo said, trying to get out of the bed but Tonbokiri immediately pushed him back down.“Didn’t you ask for me to be your assistant? Well, then you should rely on me”“I-I didn’t ask for you to be my assistant” Sengo said quietly.Tonbokiri looked at him “What?”“I asked for an assistant and Kikkou chose you because he knows thatIlikeyou” Sengo mumbles the end of the sentence“He knows what?” Tonbokiri asked, having not heard the last bit.“That I like you. Romantically. That’s why he assigned you to be my assistant”Tonbokiri smiles and leans down to kiss Sengo “I like you too. Now can you please rely on me and go to bed”Sengo grins naughtily “I don’t know. Maybe you have to kiss me again to convince me”Tonbokiri does so and soon a nurse comes to check on them because of Sengo’s elevated heartbeat.Sengo nuzzles into Tonbokiri’s muscular arms thinking that maybe it might not be so bad to rely on someone.