Crying to the Walls Part 10
Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep...
The only sound that filled the quiet room was the noise of the machinery, belonging to the other patients in the room.
All was dark and silent and everything was still.
Duo was kneeling in the doorway, his shoulders slumped, and his head bowed. His eyes were closed, letting the tears flow freely down his cheeks and to the floor.
The dead body on the bed was beaconing him. He could feel it even though he wasn't looking at it.
Dead.
Silent.
Completely still.
He took a deep breath, forcing himself to look up. He blinked away some tears, trying to clear his vision. He could see the outlines of the dead figure, a slim body hiding behind thin white sheets. Only the top of the head was visible, dark and messy hairs peeking out of the pale fabric.
Duo sucked in a painful breath, looking away.
Why did it have to happen now? Why? Just when he realized what Heero meant to him... Just when they could finally be together...
Duo whimpered, and slowly, painfully, forced himself to get up. He walked heavily towards the bed, looking down at the cold body with numb and tearful eyes.
How could this happen? How could this happen to Heero? The boy who was once strong enough to withstand any attack, who survived anything you threw at him... How could he be gone like this? What kind of person do you have to be to hurt someone as wonderful and kind as Heero?
Heero... His Heero... He was such a gentle and caring soul... who could ever think of harming him?
But who was he to speak? He was the one who had hurt him in the first place. He was the one who hooked him up with that... with that asshole! He had hurt Heero... he had been selfish and he had forgotten all about Heero's feelings.
Duo closed his eyes, whimpering silently. Heero would never do such a selfish and hurting thing. He was so selfless... he only knew how to give, not to receive. He would give anything he had and more, if only to please a person. He would always put others before himself, he was always last. He never asked for anything. With all his kindness and compassion, never once did he ask for anything for himself. He wanted nothing in return... asked for nothing... No matter how much he wanted it.
Duo clutched his hands into fists and cursed himself. And he took from him the only thing in the world he DID want, but never dared to ask for... He took away the love and happiness from Heero's world. He had hurt him and thrown him aside like an unwanted doll. And he actually thought that Heero was okay with it! That he WANTED to stay with Johnson! He only did it to please Duo... please Johnson... please anyone but himself... He never mattered, at least not in his own eyes.
Such a kind and giving heart... and now it was gone. That innocence, that beautiful and pure innocence that he loved so much... it was gone. He will never be able to look into those hauntingly beautiful eyes, to drown in the endless depths of those cobalt oceans... Never again will he see those eyes light up with joy, and that sweet and happy little smile touch those cherry-red lips...
It took so little to make Heero happy. He would treat the smallest of gifts like the greatest and most precious treasure. A small flower, a cookie or even a kind word would send the boy into ecstasy. Never again will he see those perfect features blush in embarrassment, or hear that soft voice thank him shyly. Never again will he hear that voice whisper his name...
"Duo..."
So gently and lovingly, it would make Duo's eyes fill with tears.
"D-Duo..."
And now, he will have only the memories of that precious voice...
"...Duo..."
Duo looked up, blinking. He was sure he had heard something...
He looked around the room, wiping away his tears.
Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep...
He sighed, closing his eyes. Maybe it was his imagination.
"Ahhh..."
Duo's eyes snapped open, and he looked up, confused. This time, he was sure it was no fantasy!
"Heero?" He whispered, voice uncertain. He looked down at the body, which lay before him. He nudged it slightly. "Ummm... Heero?"
A weak cough was suddenly heard, and Duo jumped up, startled. He looked around, eyes wide and tearful. He looked straight ahead, at the curtains, which hid the other beds in the room. His eyes widened again as he noticed one curtain was pushed back a little, letting him see a small part of the bed.
His eyes focused on one hand, lying limply over a yellow blanket. His eyes narrowed as he examined the limp palm.
Long and slim fingers suddenly twitched, and another cough was heard.
Duo's eyes widened and he ran over to the bed. He pushed the curtain open with one, quick, move, and looked down at the bed, panting.
The figure on the bed stirred, and Duo's eyes widened.
"HEERO!"
Chuckling and sobbing in the same time, Duo ran over to the bed, grabbing Heero's hand in his. "Oh Heero!" He cried, kissing the limp palm over and over again.
"Oh God... I thought that... I was sure... Oh God... Heero..." He mumbled over and over, kissing the pale hand repeatedly.
On the bed, Heero stirred, face contracting in pain. Tears were running out of his shuteyes, his lips trembling even in unconsciousness.
"Duo..." The boy whispered brokenly, wincing in pain.
Duo whimpered, bending down to kiss Heero's forehead. "I'm here, Heero. I'm here..."
"Come back... please... D-Duo..." Heero cried silently, whimpering in his sleep. "He... he hurts... me... Duo..."
"I'm here, Heero." Duo assured him, stroking the boy's hair gently. "I'm here and I won't leave you again..." He bent down again and kissed Heero's forehead. He continued petting the soft hair, his lips trailing gently down Heero's face, kissing every bruise, every cut.
"I won't leave again..." He whispered, kissing Heero's lips softly. "I promise."
* * *He continued sitting there into the small hours of the night. He refused to leave Heero's bedside, even when he was threatened to be kicked out by force. He gave such a fight, that the nurses just gave up and let him stay. He sat there, holding Heero's hand, waiting for the boy to wake.
He watched silently as they wheeled the dead patient out of the room, and bowed his head, looking down at Heero. He bent down to kiss the boy's sweet hair, tears running down of his closed eyelids.
He stroked Heero's hair gently, held his hand and wiped his tears. He kept whispering soft words and promises in his ears, if only to calm his sleep and ease his pain. He did everything he could to stop the pain, but still felt helpless. Heero's face remained tormented and he trashed around in the bed until he had run out of the strength to do so.
The early rays of sunshine found Duo huddled over Heero's bed, a warm cloth in his hand. He gently cleaned the various cuts and bruises over Heero's pale skin, making sure his touch was soft and painless. Heero still didn't wake up, and Duo found himself aching to look into those baby-blue eyes.
"I'm gonna make up for everything, Heero." Duo whispered as he gently ran the cloth over Heero's face. "I'm gonna make all theses wounds disappear." He promised, wetting Heero's lips a little.
The boy turned his head away, wincing in pain.
Duo's movements suddenly slowed down, and his face fell downcast. "Just like old times, ne?" He forced himself to speak cheerfully, while his eyes flooded with tears. He sniffled, wiping his tears away, and continued his work.
"I'm gonna make you trust me again." He vowed, determination in his eyes.
"Um... Mr. Maxwell?"
At the sound of the nurse's voice, Duo looked up. He saw the young lady stand by the curtain, holding her clipboard close to her chest. She was eyeing him with sorrow in her eyes.
Duo looked down at his hand, still holding the cloth. He looked up again, face apologetic. "I'm sorry. I couldn't help it... I didn't mean any harm..."
"Oh! That's not it... you did fine with me... It's just that..."
"Just that what?" Duo asked as the nurse appeared reluctant to speak.
"Well, um... there's som---"
"Where is he?!" A stern voice was suddenly heard, and Duo jumped as the curtain was pushed forcefully back.
He gasped as he saw a very ANGRY looking doctor, and two security guards stand in front of him. He swallowed and slowly got up.
"Wha-what is it?" He asked, fighting to keep his voice level.
The doctor just glared at him. "It is under a STRICT regulation of this hospital, to take care of people of the likes of you, Mr. Maxwell."
Duo blinked in confusion. "Of the likes of me?!"
The doctor's eyes narrowed and the guards took a step forward. "I have good reason to believe that the injuries inflicted on this young man," He pointed at Heero, still glaring at Duo. "Are the result of EXTENSIVE abuse, both physical and sexual."
Duo's eyes widened. "Are you saying that I did this to him?!" He demanded, taking a step closer to the bed. He took Heero's hand in his, squeezing it tightly. "I fucking BROUGHT HIM HERE! How dare you accuse me of hurting him! I would never---"
"Mr. Maxwell, if you would just step aside, and we could talk about this..." One of the guards spoke, taking a step towards the bed.
"Don't you dare touch me! I'm not going anywhere!" Duo shouted, moving away from the guard.
"Mr. Maxwell, please..." The nurse begged, her eyes shimmering with worry. "No one is blaming you for anything yet..."
"The hell they aren't!" He spat, his hold on Heero's hand tightening. He glared up at the guard, his violet eyes flashing darkly.
The guard stood still, looking at the doctor in question.
The Dr. just kept glaring down at Duo. "Your behavior is not helping to lift any suspicions. Just step away from the patient and---"
"SHUT UP! I'M NOT GOING ANYWHERE! I DIDN'T DO ANYTHING!"
"If you would just listen to what the doctor says---"
"WHY WON'T YOU LISTEN TO ME FIRST!? I'M NOT LEAVING HIM!"
"...Duo..."
Feeling Heero's hand twitch in his hold, Duo looked down at the bed, and saw Heero stir, face contracting in pain. He tightened his hold on the boy's hand, and turned back to glare at the doctor.
"If you won't leave willingly, then we'll be forced to carry you out!"
Duo's eyes narrowed, and he looked dangerously at the doc. "I'm. Not. Lea--"
"MAXWELL!!!!!"
Just then, the doors to the room flung violently open, and Johnson stormed into the room, glaring at the braided boy by the bed.
"YOU!" The German spat, still panting. "YOU FILTHY SONOFABITCH!" He pushed a few chairs aside, stalking over to Heero's bed.
Duo's eyes narrowed even more if possible, and he hurried to take a protective stance in front of Heero's bed.
The young nurse yelped and jumped aside as the large man tore the curtain away, swinging a fist at Duo's way.
"WHO THE FUCK GAVE YOU THE RIGHT TO BREAK INTO MY HOME?! AND TAKE AWAY MY LOVER!? YOU LITTLE PIECE OF---"
"ARHHH!!" The nurse screamed as the man launched at Duo with his fists.
But the younger man was quicker, and avoided the blow.
Johnson crashed onto the floor.
"SHUT THE FUCK UP JOHNSON!" Duo roared, jumping up to his feet. "AND STAY AWAY FROM MY HEERO!"
"GET HIM!" The doctor yelled, pointing at the fallen man.
The guards hurry to follow the order, picking the German off the floor.
"Come on, sir, that's enough." One of them ordered, while dragging the man out of the room.
Johnson struggled in their hold, glaring at Duo all along. "YOU HAVEN'T HEARD THE LAST OF ME, MAXWELL!" He promised, still kicking and screaming in the security men's hold. "NO ONE WILL TAKE WHAT IS MINE! NO ONE!"
Duo glared at the man until he disappeared, still screaming and fighting the guards.
"YOU'LL BE HEARING FROM MY LAWYER!"
Duo sighed, and turned back to face the bed, taking Heero's hand in his.
"YOU HAVEN'T HEARD THE LAST OF ME MAXWELL! I'LL KILL YOU MAXWELL! I SWEAR I WILL!!!!"
Duo closed his eyes, slowly sitting down by Heero's bed.
"Leave us alone, please." He whispered, looking down at the Japanese boy's face.
The nurse nodded, and turned to leave.
"I'm sorry." The doctor let out quietly, and left as well.
Duo took in a deep breath, blinking the tears away. His heart clenched painfully as he saw tears trickle down Heero's pale features, and he reached up a hand to wipe them away.
"I won't let him hurt you, Heero. I promise. He won't hurt you anymore..."
* * *
"Could you tell me, please, in which way I should go from here?"
The voice... it seemed to be coming from a far, but he knew it was close. Like when you're just about to fall asleep, and everything around you seems dimmer and fuzzy. Moaning, he stirred a little, suddenly aware of how warm and cozy he was.
"Well, it depends on where you want to go."
The voice, rich and pleasant, answered its own question, so distant, but yet so close. Then there was another sound, like a ruffling of papers. He stirred again, feeling the soft material move against his skin. He fought to open his eyes, just as the voice spoke up again.
"I don't care where-- said Alice." The voice continued softly, becoming nearer and clearer. "If so then it doesn't matter which way you'll go."
He wanted to smile at the voice's answer. It was very amusing, though he had no idea why it was saying such silly things. But he wanted to get near the voice. He wanted to be closer. It drew him out of the darkness, rescuing from the thick swamp of unconsciousness.
"... As long as I get there, of course, she added as an explanation. Of course you'll get there, said the cat, as long as you'll keep on walking."
He moaned a little, his lips twitching up in a weak smile. The tale was becoming more and more interesting, and he fought to keep awake, wanting to hear more of the tale, and more of the amiable voice. It was so warm and gave him such a nice feeling, he was sure he had heard it before...
"... But I don't want to be around crazy people, Alice commented. You don't have a choice, said the cat, we're all crazy. I'm crazy, you're crazy..."
This time, he nearly chuckled, but it came out more like a choked whimper.
"How do you know that I'm crazy? Said Alice." Again the sound of papers, and then: "It's evident,"
Again he chuckled to himself.
"Otherwise, you wouldn't have come here."
He wanted to laugh, but he couldn't find his voice. Something thick and heavy was blocking it.
"...The cat answered and Aliiii-- Heero?"
It appeared that he did manage to somehow make himself chuckle, and now the voice was calling his name. He frowned inwardly, unpleased by the fact that the voice was now quiet.
Slowly, heavily, his eyes fluttered open. It hurt so much to open them, his eyelids felt heavy and uncooperative. He found that he couldn't open his right eye all the way, and he blinked, trying to clear his vision. Once his vision came back to focus, he found himself looking up at a figure, which was seated on a chair by his bedside. It took his numb mind a few moments to realize who the figure was.
Duo.
The braided boy grinned form ear to ear, and put his book aside. "Heero!" He called happily, jumping out of his chair. He took Heero's hand in his, and kissed it softly. "You're finally awake! How are you feeling? Do you need anything? Are you in any pain? Should I call the nurse?"
Heero blinked at the long string of questions, turning his head away from Duo. His dull blue eyes kept staring at the book resting by the bed, and a small frown appeared on his bruised features.
"You were reading to me..." He whispered weakly, and slowly turned to look up at Duo. He coughed feebly, and closed his eyes, taking a deep breath. "...why?"
Duo couldn't help but wince at the broken voice. The disbelief and heartbreak in Heero's eyes were almost too much. He had to force himself to keep standing straight, for all he wanted was to drop down to his knees and beg for Heero's forgiveness.
"Have I... Have I done enough to please you?" The boy asked pleadingly, tears filling his cobalt eyes.
"Hee-Heero..." Duo choked out, his own eyes shimmering with tears. He reached down to cup Heero's hand in his, his other hand reaching to pet the soft cheek.
But Heero turned his head the other way, closing his eyes in sadness. "I... I gave everything I had to give... everything..." The boy cried, shaking his head weakly from side to side. "...and there's... there's nothing left to give..."
"Heero..."
"I did everything I could think of doing... but it was never... never enough..."
"Heero," Duo sat down on the bed, holding Heero's hand tightly. "Heero, look at me."
The boy sniffled, and slowly did as told. He blinked away a few tears, looking up at Duo with large and vulnerable cobalt eyes.
The two looked at each other for a long moment, Duo's gaze sharp and serious, making Heero breathless with dread and anticipation.
Finally, Duo took a deep breath, and reached down to push a few messy bangs out of Heero's eyes.
"I'm sorry." He whispered, voice hoarse from the tears that threatened to come. "I know that I don't deserve your forgiveness, but I'm asking for a second chance. Please let me do this right."
Heero just stared at him with eyes wide from disbelief. Tears continued to slid lazily down his cheeks, his lower lip trembling. He took a deep breath, turning his head aside. He lay like that for a few long moments, his hand held by Duo's. His gaze, still numb from sleep and dull with shock, was fixed on the book by the bed. He stared at the cover, remaining silent.
Duo sighed sadly, and closed his eyes, looking away from Heero. He squeezed the boy's hand tightly, and a few stray tears escaped his eyes. "Heero, please. Just one more chance..." He begged, whirling around to face his love. "I promise I wi--" He was stopped short when Heero suddenly turned to look at him, his turbulent blue eyes looking through his very being. He swallowed, bowing his head in shame.
"Duo," Heero began, and Duo closed his eyes, already knowing the answer. He took a deep breath, trying to force the tears back. "Duo, could you--"
"God, Heero, I'm so sorry!" Duo suddenly burst, and Heero flinched, a bit startled. "I'm such a brainless idiot! I know I'm no good for you now! I know I've been a jerk! But please... God, Heero, please! I thought I lost you, and now I have you back and... and... and all I want is to be with you, to love you... please... Heero... God... I'm... I'm so sorry..." He cried, burying his face in his hands. "I'm sorry..."
On the bed, Heero continued staring, gaping at Duo in surprise. He struggled to sit up a little, and slowly reached a bandaged hand, resting it on Duo's arm. "Duo..."
The braided boy sniffled, but forced himself to look up at Heero. He hurried to wipe away his tears, promising himself that, no matter what, he will respect Heero's decision.
Finally, after a moment of tense silence, Heero took a deep breath, and looked up at Duo, capturing his gaze with his. "Duo, could you..."
Unable to bear anymore of this, Duo closed his eyes and bowed his head, his hands closing into fists.
"Can you read me more of that story?"
Duo's head snapped up and he gasped, shocked. He quickly turned to look at Heero, his features stunned.
Heero smiled weakly at him, gesturing at the book with his head. "Please?"
Somewhere, from the midst of all his shock, pain and confusion, Duo found his smile. He smiled down at the Japanese boy, and let out a nervous chuckle, relieved.
"Sure, Heero." He answered with a small smile, reaching for the book. "Anything for you."
* * *
Duo opened the bedroom's door, and walked through the door, holding Heero in his arms. The boy was discharged from the hospital after a few days and Duo insisted on taking him back home, with him. He was still very weak and injured, so Duo had to help him walk from the car and into the building. But walking was too exhausting for Heero right now, and so, much to the Japanese boy's protest, Duo swooped him up and cradled him in his arms, carrying the rest of the way.
He placed the boy gently on the large bed, arranging a small mountain of pillows for him to lean on. He then tucked the boy with a thick blanket, and hurried to walk over to the window. He opened the drapes fully, letting in the last golden rays of light. He opened the window as well, letting some fresh air in. He inhaled it deeply into his lungs, and turned to face the bed, grinning.
"Did you miss it?" He asked as he saw Heero look at the room, deep in thought.
"...Aa." The boy answered quietly, turning to face Duo. The braided boy came to sit at the edge of the bed, and an awkward silence fell between the two. Heero sighed and looked down at the sheets, his fingers playing with the white fabric.
"Are you hungry?" Duo finally asked, just to break the silence.
"Not really." Heero whispered, still not lifting his gaze up.
"But the Doc said you have to eat. You lost too much weight."
At that remark, Heero looked down at his battered body, and closed his eyes sadly.
"I'll make you some soup then, okay?" Duo tried to continue the conversation, but the boy remained silent. He was just sitting there, his head bowed and his eyes fixed on the bed. Sighing, Duo got up and prepared to leave. "I'll be back in a jippy, kay?" He promised, tapping lightly on Heero's shoulder.
The boy remained unresponsive, his fingers still playing with the sheets.
Duo sighed and left the room.
When he was back, carrying a tray with hot soup and some bread, he saw that Heero had fallen asleep. He didn't have the heart to wake the boy, and so he put the tray aside and went to take a shower. After he was done, he walked down the hallway, towards the living room, but he suddenly stopped, looking through the bedroom's door. His eyes narrowed painfully as he watched the sleeping figure, lying curled on the large bed, looking very alone. The blanket was nearly falling off the slim body, so Duo walked into the room and covered Heero again.
He then lay down beside him, careful not to make any physical contact, and lay there for hours, just watching his love sleep.
* * *
He must have dozed off at some point, for the next thing he knew, it was morning, and he was awakened to a strange noise. Something that sounded a lot like cracking and sparking. He yawned and stretched in the bed, scratching his nose. His other hand reached for the other side of the bed, searching for the warmth he had slept by all night long.
His eyes snapped open when he didn't find it.
He jumped out of the bed and hurried to run out of the room.
"Heero!" He called, panicked. "Heero! Are you here?! Heero!" He came to a quick halt in the middle of the living room, and whirled around quickly, facing the kitchen.
He sighed in relief as he spotted Heero, standing by the stove, still wearing the clothes Duo had brought him when he was released form the hospital.
Shaking his head, Duo walked into the kitchen. "Man, Heero, what are you doing up so early? You should be in bed."
The boy didn't answer, and flipped something in a pan. Duo's mouth began to water at the delicious smell of cooking. God, he had missed Heero's cooking...
Looking over his shoulder, he could see that the kitchen table was arranged, but there was only one set of dishes. He turned back to Heero, confused.
"Wait a minute, what is this?"
"I made you some breakfast." Heero answered, his voice hoarse and tired, like he just woke up, or didn't get much sleep. He put the food into a large plate and turned around, handing it to Duo. "I-uh, good morning." He finally stammered, offering Duo a sad little smile. "D-did you sleep well?"
Duo didn't answer. He was too busy staring down at the plate offered to him. Bacon and eggs, with some toast and butter. His eyebrows drew near, and he slowly lifted his head up, looking at Heero in confusion. "Since when do you make bacon?"
"Huh?" Heero asked, confused.
"Bacon. You don't like meat. It makes you nauseous." Duo reminded him, still very much confused.
"Oh, um..." Heero began, refusing to meet Duo's gaze. "It--it doesn't matter anymore. Here," He put the plate on the table, and drew out a chair for Duo to sit. "I made some coffee too."
Body numb and stiff from shock, Duo slowly sat down, unable to take his eyes off of Heero, as the boy went over to pour some coffee into a large mug. He couldn't help noticing how Heero's hand trembled a little as he held the mug. He frowned as he saw the liquid fill the mug.
"But I don't like black coffee..." He mumbled, watching the dark liquid with numb eyes.
The glass suddenly slipped out of Heero's hand, and fell down to the floor, shattering.
Silence fell over the small kitchen, as both boys remained unmoving. Duo kept sitting by the table, looking at Heero as the boy stood still, his back facing him, a puddle of dark liquid forming at his feet.
"Y-you're right... you're right... I'm sorry... I thought you were..." Heero mumbled his hands trembling as he reached for a wet cloth by the sink. "I thought..."
"Heero!" Duo called as the boy lost his balance, and he launched out of his chair, catching Heero just before he fell.
"I'm sorry..." The boy continued mumbling, looking up at Duo with tearful eyes. "I thought..."
"Shhhh..." Duo whispered soothingly, petting Heero's hair softly. "You should be in bed, c'mon."
"I can make... make something else..." The Japanese boy murmured as Duo lifted him into his arms, cradling him as one would cradle a baby. He let Duo carry him back into the bedroom, feeling too weak and ill to walk on his own. "Don't be mad..." He pleaded weakly as Duo placed him gently on the bed. He reached up a shaking hand, his fingers caressing Duo's forehead softly, barely making any real contact. "I can do better..."
"Shhhh..." Duo soothed, taking Heero's hand in his. He brought it down to his lips and kissed it softly. He then caringly put the pale hand down on the bed and covered Heero with a blanket.
"D-do you need anything? I can... I can make you coffee... or tea! Anything! Just... just tell me... I'll make it... say if you need anything... I'll do anything... anything..." Heero whimpered over and over, turning in his bed.
"Shhh... I don't need anything from you, Heero. Just rest now. Shhhhh... just rest and heal, love. You don't have to do anything." Duo whispered back, caressing Heero softly. His eyes filled with tears at the utter sorrow and despair in those incredible cobalt eyes.
"Thank you for having me back, Duo." Heero whispered sleepily, turning to lie on his side. He let Duo's soft caressing lull him to sleep, and he closed his eyes, welcoming the thick darkness. "Thank you... I'll--I'll be good from now on... I promise."
"Shhh... Heero, sleep." Duo croaked, his voice so thick with tears, it barely made it out of this throat.
"I've change, ne? You'll see. I'm better now. I'll be good to you now... I will... Thank you for giving me another chance. I won't let you down. I'll be good to you..." The boy mumbled as he drifted into sleep.
"Heero..."
"I'll be good to you, Duo..." Heero whispered and then coughed weakly. He snuggled into the covers, already asleep. "I'll be good..."
Duo couldn't help but whimper at the heartbreaking promise, his tears falling down onto Heero's hair as he continued caressing the boy.
* * *
After some time of guarding Heero's sleep, Duo got up and walked out of the room. He closed the door behind him and went over to the kitchen. He began by cleaning up the mess, and then set out on making his love some breakfast.
He wasn't really good around the kitchen, but he would do anything to try and make it up to Heero. Looking through the fridge, his eyes suddenly lit up with a smile, and he reached a hand into the refrigerator, smiling to himself.
"Perfect."
* * *
Heero woke up an hour later, feeling a little better. He rubbed his eyes tiredly, wishing that he could take off the damn bandages, for his skin was all itchy. He tried to scratch his hand a little, but the bandage was too thick. He sighed in annoyance and slumped back into the mountain of cushions.
He turned his head aside, watching Duo's nightstand. The book he had read to him in the hospital was still there, but that wasn't what drew Heero's attention. It was the single framed photo that did. An old photo, taken about two years ago, of the tow of them together. Duo's hand was propped over Heero's shoulder, and he was smiling to the camera. In the picture, Heero was smiling too; only he wasn't looking at the camera, but at a small garland of flowers he was holding, a gift from Duo.
Heero smiled at the photo, and turned back to watch the ceiling. He couldn't believe Duo had kept that photo so close to him... all this time...
"Goooooood morning!" Duo's cheerful voice called from the door, and Heero looked up. He raised an eyebrow when he saw what Duo was carrying.
"Wha-what is this?" He asked, slowly sitting up.
"Your breakfast." The boy answered with a smile, settling the tray by Heero, also sitting down.
"You made me breakfast?" The boy asked, stunned.
"Yep!"
Heero couldn't help but smile. He bowed his head shyly, looking down at his meal. "Thank you." He whispered, his eyes studying the food offered to him. His smile grew as he saw what it was.
Duo had put a cup of his favorite yogurt, along with some fresh fruit, and a bowl of blood red strawberries, swimming in a white sea of rich sweet cream. He had also put a little white rose on the side of the tray.
Heero chuckled and shook his head. "I don't think the doctors meant that I should have sweets for breakfast." He commented in amusement.
"Nonsense! You like sweets, no?"
"Yes, I do." Heero answered, his eyes dancing in joy. He reached down to take a fork, but Duo beat him to it. He gently pushed Heero's hand aside and smiled up at the boy.
"Here, let me." He whispered, picking up on strawberry from the bowl, coating it with the thick cream. He then handed it to Heero's lips, smiling as the boy looked at him in bewilderment.
But instead of protesting that he could eat by his own, Heero just smiled slightly and used his tongue to flip the fruit into his mouth. He then licked his lips slowly, savoring the taste.
A soft moan escaped Duo's lips at the teasing sight, and for a long while all he could do was stare down at those cherry red lips. After a while, he put himself back together and turned to serve another strawberry to his love.
* * *
After breakfast, Duo went out of the room, only to return with a bowl of hot water, and a soft cloth. He gently bathed Heero, cleaned his wounds and dressed them carefully. Heero just lay there, motionless, letting Duo take care of him. He didn't have the strength to either protest, or shower by himself, so he just allowed himself to enjoy the experience. It had been a long while since someone paid so much attention to him and to his needs.
He chuckled as Duo traced the cloth down his ticklish spots, teasing him playfully with the warm fabric. Duo then began to make funny little drawings on his chest and abdomen, using the cloth as a tool, and making Heero giggle as he tickled him. He felt silly, like a little child, but it was a good feeling to laugh again.
After that, Heero felt sleepy again, and so Duo just curled into the bed with him, gathering Heero into his arms. He took the book from his nightstand, and continued reading to his love, until the boy was deep asleep.
Even after Heero had dozed off, Duo continued holding him in his arms, caressing his sweet hair, as the boy's head rested on his chest, sleeping peacefully.
* * *
That evening Duo walked into the bedroom, carrying two tall glasses of wine, only they had ice-cream in them, with a cherry on top. He knew that he was spoiling Heero too much for one day, but he couldn't help it, he was so happy to have his love back here with him. All he did that day was to pamper Heero, to hold him, kiss and caress him gently, comfort him and whisper soothing words to the beautiful boy.
But now, when he entered the bedroom, he saw that the bed was empty. Baffled, he looked around, the ice cream still in his hands. He relaxed when he saw the large window, which leads into a small balcony, was open. He shook his head in disapproval, and walked out into the balcony.
He stopped the minute he saw Heero. The Japanese boy looked more beautiful than ever, while standing against the large and pale moon, his hair gently tousled by the wind. He was wearing nothing but a pair of black boxers Duo had given him, along with a loose and ragged white tank top. He was also covered by Duo's large, black, satin robe, which was wide open, flapping in the wind.
Duo took in a sharp breath, forcing himself to breathe. He cleared his throat, not wanting to alarm Heero with his presence, since the boy was busy watching the stars.
"Got your ice-cream." Duo announced quietly, handing it to the boy. "Nuts about Chocolate, your favorite."
Heero turned his gaze from where he was watching the stars, and looked down at the glass offered to him. "Thank you." He whispered, and took the desert from Duo's hand.
"What were you looking for?" Duo asked, coming to stand next to Heero, also looking up at the stars.
"Oh nothing. It's stupid, really."
"Oh?" Duo asked, raising an eyebrow. "What is it?"
"I was trying to look for the colonies." Heero explained sheepishly. "I never thought about it, but I don't think that they sparkle."
"Oh? Is that so?" Duo asked, looking up at the sky. His eyes narrowed as he examined the heavens. "Nah, you're wrong. They do sparkle."
"They do?" Heero asked, looking up as well. "I can't see any..." He narrowed his eyes, trying to look harder. He was so focused on his task that he didn't notice when Duo closed the short distance between them, and put and arm around his waist.
"See? Up there." He said, pointing up.
"Where?" Heero asked, turning his head in the direction of Duo's hand.
"See? That's the L1 cluster, right next to the northern star."
Heero strained his eyes to see, and then suddenly the blue jewels widened in surprise. "Hey! You're right!"
Duo chuckled at Heero's stunned tone. He gently cupped Heero's chin in his hand, and slowly turned his head to face another direction. "And see that? That's the L2 cluster." He turned to look at Heero, smiling at the boy's face, illuminated by the moonlight. He looked so much like a little boy, looking up at the heavens for the first time. In this pale and magical lighting, Duo could almost ignore the bruises on his face.
That thought suddenly spoiled his mood, and he looked down, sighing. He eyed Heero's slim waist, only now noting how much weight Heero had lost. He tightened his hold on the boy, and looked up again. "You see it?"
Heero nodded his head slightly, his features full of wonder.
"You know what else?" Duo asked softly, smiling.
Heero turned to look at his, raising an eyebrow. "What?"
"If you spread your fingers wide, one end on L1, the other will end up on L2." He took Heero's delicate hand in his, and did just as he said. Heero smiled at the discovery, looking down at Duo with dancing eyes.
Duo bent down to give him a quick kiss on the lips, still holding Heero's hand up in the air. "And you wanna know something else?" Heero nodded, and followed Duo's gaze up to the skies, looking at their joined hands.
"I think," Duo began, entwining his fingers with Heero's. "I think that they just got closer together." He whispered, and drew Heero closer to him, bending down to kiss his neck.
Heero chuckled slightly, and looked up, at both their hands held up against the stars, one end on L1, the other on 2. And it did seem like they were closer together.
* * *
"Duo?" Heero murmured as he snuggled closer to his love, both of them lying in bed, buried under warm covers.
"Hmm?" The braided boy hummed, bending down to kiss the top of Heero's head.
"I'm tired." The Japanese boy mumbled tiredly, snuggling against Duo's chest.
Duo chuckled, putting his arms around Heero. "Then go to sleep, silly boy."
Heero made a face, and sighed. "But..." He bit his lower lip, hesitating.
Duo looked down at the boy in his arms, wondering if he was imagining it, or if the boy was really trembling. "Heero?" He asked, concerned. "Heero, what is it? You can go to sleep if you want."
"But... but..." Heero began again, slowly lifting his head up to face Duo. His cobalt eyes were shimmering with unshed tears, glistering under the soft light on the room. "But don't you want to... to have... to have sex?"
Duo frowned and turned to look down at Heero. "What do you mean?"
Heero sighed quietly, and bowed his head. "D-don't you want me to... to please you?"
"Please me?!" Duo called, baffled. He saw Heero nod slightly, ducking his head between his shoulders. He sighed, pulling the boy closer to him. "Heero, you don't have to do anything if you don't want to."
"Yeah, but..." Heero mumbled into Duo's chest, his fingers playing with the covers. "I want you to be... to be happy."
"I'm happy just being here with you." Duo assured him, kissing his soft hair. "And when the time comes, when you're ready, I don't want it to be just sex. I want to make love to you, Heero."
At that, Heero's head jerked up, and he looked at Duo with wide and startled eyes. "Ho-honto ni?" He asked, voice shaking with emotions.
Duo smiled kindly at him, and reached a hand to flicker the tip of Heero's nose with his finger. "Yes. Really." He assured him. "But only when you're ready."
Again Heero smiled, and nodded his head. He returned to lie against Duo's chest, hugging him tightly. "Oyasumi." He whispered sleepily.
"Goodnight, love." Duo returned softly, and kissed him again. "Sweet dreams."
* * *
He was awakened by a loud knock on the front door. Cursing silently, Duo detached himself from Heero's warm body, and dragged himself out of bed. Yawning and stretching, Duo walked down the hallway, towards the door.
The knocking continued.
"Hai... hai... coming!" He muttered, still yawning. "Too damn early..." He complained while unlocking the door. "Who the fuck comes here at this hour in the morning?" He continued, opening the chain that served as the finale lock.
The knocking still didn't cease.
"Jesus! Just wait one fucking minute!" He called as he opened the door. "It's not like I'm stalling on purpose you kn--"
BAM!
Something hit him in the face, and Duo staggered back, gasping in shock. He reached a hand up to touch his wounded face, and slowly looked up at the door. "What the--"
BOOM!
Another punch, again to his face. Duo fell back from the force of the impact, still holding his face. "Now wait a min--" He hurried to jump up to his feet, only a few kicks and blows were quickly thrown his way. He collapsed down to the floor.
A pair of black boots came into his blurry line of vision, and Duo blinked, trying to remain conscious. "Wh-who..?" He croaked, but was soon silenced by a kick to the head.
Duo's world went black.
Johnson entered the apartment.
TBC…
AUTHOR'S NOTE: I bought 'Alice in Wonderland' and 'Through the looking glass' today. I am IN LOVE with those two books ever since I was a kid. I just felt like quoting them, for no special reason. I translated it from the book I have, which is in HEBREW, so forgive me if it came out a little crappy...