Squeee! Another chapter. Yay!!! Eyes turn into pink hearts and clasps hands together with happy face.

Vampire Knight is not mine. It is the property of Matsuri Hino. Waaaaahhhh! Life is so unfair.

Summary: Unwanted tension. Another admirer? A hurtful scene. A walk in the park. A present given in the backseat of the car. The sweetest of caresses in the garden.

Accidental Meetings and So-Called Rivals

Kaname walked into his spacious bedroom, shutting the door behind him, and let his eyes fall upon the impeccably made bed. A faint smile claimed his features when his mind recalled the memory of lying next to Zero in that hotel room. He glided to his desk, placing his textbooks atop it, and heaved a sigh when he cast a glance to his empty bed.

It had been three weeks since that night and he sorely missed Zero. Sure, the fleeting glances they shared at the class exchange were all well and good, but they were nothing like touching the prefect. He sighed and strode to his walk-in closet, removing his tailored uniform jacket and placing it on a clothes hanger. His thoughts ambled, wandering to the serene face of the hunter as he slept. It was the first time he had seen the boy look so unguarded and it dissolved his heart every time he thought about it.

Hours later, he was sitting at his desk polishing off his homework for the day when someone-Takuma- knocked on the door. "Enter," he replied.

Takuma entered the room, grinning jovially when he spotted his friend, and shut the door. "Good evening Kaname." He was no longer attired in his school uniform but in a rather well put together casual outfit.

"Good evening Takuma. Is something wrong?" He asked, putting down his ink pen to regard the blonde.

Takuma strolled to Kaname and placed a rather important looking envelope on his desk. "It finally came." He inclined his head when the pureblood did not stand, but instead resumed tweaking his essay. "Umm…"

Kaname smiled faintly to himself. "Cross-san is still sleeping right now." That was a lie-mostly. Cross was sleeping, but that wasn't the real reason he hadn't left yet. Day Class started around eight and Kaname knew for a fact that Zero started towards the cafeteria for breakfast at exactly seven-twenty-five. He glanced up at the clock. He'd give himself twenty minutes.

Takuma nodded, a knowing glint in his emerald eyes, and beamed at the brunette. "Well, I'm off then, Shiki and I are studying for our Physics exam together." He smiled again and exited the room.

Kaname shook his head. Unless there was a third person with them, Takuma and Shiki were not going to get much studying accomplished. He abandoned his schoolwork twenty minutes later and was soon on his way to the Chairman's office.

Zero ran a brush through his hair rather haphazardly, and exited his room falling in company with the other teenage boys filing into the hallway. He looked down at his watch, seven-twenty-four. Kaname was probably just turning into bed right now. The image of the pureblood's stricken features as he was dragged into the depths of a nightmare rose into his mind. A semblance of worry passed through the silver-haired youth, and he found himself hoping that the pureblood didn't have another nightmare.

He exited the boys' dormitory, following behind several other teenaged males, and squinted at the already brightly shining sun. He descended the steps, brushing past a duo of boys roughhousing, and continued towards the cafeteria.

Kaname spotted the apple of his eye up ahead, but he was not alone. His stride faltered and the tiny muscles around his eyes contracted. Who was that? Conversing rather animatedly with Zero as he strode next to him was a thin young man. He ignored the girls-and boys- gaping at him like lovesick fools and unmasked his aura, making his presence known to the Hunter.

Zero instantly felt the overpowering aura storming through his senses just before a rich melodic voice said: "Good morning Zero-san."

Both turned on cue and stared at the owner of the voice. Zero's voice remained stoic whereas the other teenager's face mirrored his surprise. "Kuran-san," he stated stolidly.

Kaname eyed the young man standing next to Zero critically. The teen was considerably shorter than Zero, about ten pounds lighter with spiky jet black hair, baby blue eyes, and several piercings in his ears. All in all, he was- and Kaname was loathe to admit it- attractive. "Who is your friend?"

Zero felt the drop in Kaname's aura. It almost felt the same way it had on the nightwalk when he was 'protecting' him from the Hunter, except there was a different edge to it. "Kuran-san, this is Masaharu-san." He introduced them, discerning the barely detectable storm crackling thorough those garnet eyes. What was wrong with Kaname?

The teenager smiled politely at Kaname and bowed to the brunette. "It is nice to meet you senpai."

Kaname gave a cordial dip of his head, but disregarded the youth altogether after that. "I need to speak with the Chairman, perhaps you could escort me?" His initial intention was merely to see Zero and perhaps exchange a few words, but now, he just wanted him away from that human.

Zero raised an eyebrow. What the hell? If Kaname was on his way to the Chairman's office then why the heck did he come this way? He didn't want to miss breakfast, but he also didn't want the pureblood to get mobbed by fanatical admirers. As he contemplated on his decision he caught the territorial gaze Kaname was all but hurling at Masaharu. What was Kaname's problem? Why was he here and why was he was staring at Masaharu like he was a newfound adversary? "Sure."

Masaharu took that as his cue to leave. He clapped Zero on the shoulder fondly. "Hey, don't worry about missing breakfast, I'll make sure to save you some bread and miso soup," he reassured the vampire, beaming at him amiably.

Kaname restrained a growl at the familiar- too familiar- tone the boy used with Zero. He controlled the urge to bare his fangs at the boy, especially when Masaharu's hand remained on Zero's shoulder as if it were glued there. He restrained his aura, trying to keep from causing some random object to explode. Zero was his. This- this human boy had no right to touch him so freely. He had no right to employ such camaraderie with Zero as if they were actually… friends. Purebloods were notoriously known for accepting no rivals for the affections of their chosen mate and Kaname was no exception. Kaname wanted to yank Zero to him and kiss him senseless just to let the pest know that he was barking up the wrong tree.

Zero nodded, wary of the clearly unhappy pureblood aura raging through their bond. What had him so damned worked up? If he didn't know any better he'd say the pureblood's behavior bordered on that of… jealousy?

Masaharu's dropped his hand, sent Zero a cheeky smile, and started to walk away. Before he could get too far, though, he turned. "We're still hanging out Saturday right?"

What! Zero was hanging out with this- this twit? Unintentionally his aura oozed forth causing a patch of nearby flowers to shrivel to nothing.

"Yeah."

Masaharu bid them both a fond farewell, grinned boyishly, and ran off towards the cafeteria.

Zero regarded the fuming pureblood. "You might want to tone your aura down before somebody's head explodes," he stated carelessly, turning to walk towards Cross's office. Did Kaname always have to be such a diva?

Kaname didn't show it, but Zero's words stung him. Was Zero courting Masaharu? Was that why he had been avoiding him for three weeks? Because someone else had captured his heart? He clenched the envelope in his hand but maintained his forward gaze, ignoring the sensation of his heart being impaled. No, he couldn't. Perhaps he was jumping to conclusions. Perhaps... "You and Masaharu seem to be quite… familiar," he stated coolly, successful in filtering the envy from his tone.

Zero shrugged, stilling the hand that sought to grasp the pureblood's. "He's relatively new here and we're chemistry partners," he replied casually, casting a glance to the pureblood when he answered. Why did he just add that last bit? Kaname didn't need to know they were chemistry partners.

Oh. Chagrin crossed through the pureblood. He usually wasn't so quick to prejudge a situation, but when it came to Zero he seemed to lose all rationality. "I see." His gaze wafted to the prefect walking alongside him and he smiled softly, slightly surprised when it was reciprocated. They walked in relative silence now that the entire student body had filed into the cafeteria for breakfast. Kaname liked it this way. He liked the quiet, especially when he was near Zero, because it made him feel like he could stroke the other's soul. He glanced down at the hand swinging so closely to his and 'unintentionally' brushed his fingers across his knuckles.

Goose pimples bloomed over Zero's skin and he swallowed hard, wetting his suddenly dry throat. He hadn't felt this man's touch in three weeks and yet it still lost none of its potency. This was absurd. A single brush of Kaname's fingers shouldn't make his insides feel like they were liquefying. It was unnatural, but he couldn't help yearning for more.

They walked into the main building, descended the staircase, and strode down the adequately lit hallway until soon they were standing outside of the Chairman's office. "Everyone will be changing classes soon, so if you want I could escort you back."

The corner of Kaname's mouth nearly quirked into a smile. He didn't need to be escorted back to his room because he could always use his vampire speed to get back. But, if it meant spending a little while longer with Zero, then he would gladly accept.

Sorrel orbs speared into his, impaling him to the spot. Those hypnotic eyes ensnared him, drawing him in until he found himself drowning in two pools of garnet. Kaname's eyes were so… beautiful and he knew that if he didn't look away he'd get lost in them. He was so mesmerized by those russet globes that he did not register Kaname's touch until the brunette's thumb brushed across his cheekbone. Oh god. What was he doing? Standing in the hallway outside of the Chairman's office gazing into Kaname's breathtaking eyes like some sort of bashful schoolgirl was playing with fire. He jerked away from the pureblood and backed into the wall, instantly regretting the abruptness of his movement when he saw the flicker of anguish in those russet orbs.

Kaname's hand lingered in the air briefly before he dropped it, and darted his gaze to the left. Damn. It had been three weeks, he just wanted to… to…. Perhaps the intimacy they shared in the hotel room was a rare occurrence that would not happen again. Perhaps… He didn't want finish that thought, because it would only serve to burden his heart.

Zero didn't like it when Kaname's eyes got that doleful look, and he enjoyed it even less when it was there because of him. What was he supposed to do? He didn't want the pureblood to be unhappy, but he also didn't want anyone to know. Know about what Zero? There's nothing between you two. The voice was right. There was nothing between them. The tender caresses, gentle glances, and sadness flittering through those eyes when he rejected the smallest touch were just Kaname being a weird vampire. It wasn't anything more, right? He darted his eyes away from the pureblood standing before him. "Kaname I--"

Cross poked his head out of his office. "I thought I heard voices out here." He stepped into the hall, smiling merrily at them both. "Did I interrupt anything?" He asked, a sly glint in his eyes.

Zero glared angrily at the jovial, bespectacled man. "No, I was just escorting Kuran-san here because he needs to speak with you," he answered, concealing his rampaging emotions behind a mask of stone.

Kaname, taking Zero's lead, donned his seemingly impenetrable veil and held up the envelope in his hand. "We need to discuss the contents of this letter," he stated coolly, the slight tinge of warmth in his voice directed at the Chairman.

Cross smiled sweetly at the pureblood. "Then come in." His eyes brightened when a thought came to him. "Oooh, I could brew some tea and warm up my muffins!" He disappeared in his office, eager to have some tea and muffins with his favorite pureblood.

Kaname shot a single glance towards the prefect before following the effervescent ex-hunter into his office.

A twinge of pain cut through him at that glance. He sighed. Why had he done that? It wasn't as if he didn't like it when Kaname touched him, it was just… He didn't want anyone to see them. If people knew that he enjoyed the pureblood's caresses, tender glances, and yearned to be near him it would spell disaster. He was torn in half. On the one hand his heart was telling him that it was okay to desire the pureblood's attentions, but his mind told him that such feelings were foolish. He heaved another deep exhalation. Why did everything have to be so complicated?

Half an hour later found Zero sitting on the bottom step of the staircase waiting patiently for Kaname to conclude his visit with the Chairman. His thoughts continued to revisit the way the pureblood's hand lingered in the air momentarily when he'd jerked away, fingers curling as if the action caused him pain. Why was Kaname acting this way? He wasn't used to seeing the pureblood exhibit such tender emotions, and it unnerved him. He looked up when the door opened and Kaname exited, face expressionless as usual.

Cross bounded out behind him with a merry countenance. He strode towards Zero, holding a blue envelope in his hand. "I almost forgot, this came for you three days ago." He proffered the envelope to Zero.

Zero glowered irritably at his guardian and took the monogrammed envelope from his outstretched hand. "And you're just now giving it to me!" That's right if he acted as if nothing was wrong, if he yelled at Cross, then everything would feel okay.

Cross pouted at the teen. "I am Chairman of this lovely school Zero-kun it takes a lot out of Cross-kun." He leaned on the prefect and looked up at him with big doe eyes. "You must forgive Cross-kun when he forgets, because he doesn't mean to."

Zero shoved his guardian away grumbling something about 'sexual harassment' and placed the envelope in his inner coat pocket. It constantly amazed him how smoothly Cross Academy ran with the Chairman's 'eccentric' antics. It was a miracle that the academy wasn't in shambles.

Cross smiled widely, showing pearly white teeth, and nodded towards the pureblood standing at the end of the hall. "Hurry and escort Kaname-kun back to the Moon Dormitory so you won't miss your first class."

Zero rolled his eyes and strode to the pureblood. They walked the entire way to the Moon Dormitory in a heavy silence. Neither broke the deafening quiet between because one didn't know what to say while the other nursed the sting of rejection. Kaname gave a bow of his head to Zero once they were at the gates preceding the Moon Dormitory.

"Thank you Zero," he said quietly. He turned, avoiding those amethyst eyes and strode through the gates with his heart weighing heavy in his chest.

Zero didn't respond. He just stared after pureblood, wanting to say something, but not knowing what would ease the sudden tension between them. Damn. Kaname was acting like his original self. That was good right? He wanted Kaname to start acting normal again, didn't he? So why did the cold tone of that melodic voice make his chest tighten? He turned, cast a glance over his shoulder, and began his stroll to his first class.

Night had fallen upon the land, sending its shadows to dance across the tops and alleys of Cross Academy's buildings. The moon was in its half quarter, shining down upon the land and dispatching its gentle beams to frolic among the shadows.

Kaname sat at his desk at the top of the class, face a picture of listlessness. He swept his eyes around the room, fleetingly glancing at the focused expressions of his classmates, and looked down at the paper sitting on his desk. Yakumi-sensei decided that today was the opportune time to spring a quiz on them, thus the quiet in the room. Unlike his classmates, his mind wasn't focused on calculus. Instead, his thoughts were of the silver-haired prefect that captured his heart.

Zero had flinched away from his touch as if he were some sort of stranger. But why? He thought that they'd made a substantial leap forward that night at the hotel. Perhaps he'd gotten his hopes up too soon. Perhaps he'd mistaken Zero's trust for something more than what it truly was: trust. His mind conjured the image of Masaharu and the way he spoke and interacted with Zero. He treated Zero with ease, as if they were old friends. He frowned and heaved a hopeless sigh. Zero had been human once. Perhaps he wanted a lover closer to what he'd known in his childhood years. Maybe he desired a lover who didn't remind him of that horrific night.

Kaname dropped his head. Oh Zero. It had never crossed his mind that the reason Zero might not want to become his was because he had given his heart to another. The very thought of Zero holding, making love to, gazing adoringly at someone else was enough to shatter his heart down to its very core and scatter its shards into the darkness. Perhaps Zero wanted a lover that didn't crave his blood just as much as they desired his body.

He ran a hand through his dark locks, attempting to ignore the malicious voice echoing disparagements at him from the shadowy corners of his mind. Humiliating images from his childhood accosted him, but he reined in his emotions, dispelling those images back to the rim of his consciousness where they were harmless to his waking thoughts. He looked down at the paper before him and picked up his pencil, deciding that if there was anything to stop him from agonizing it was an Advanced Calculus quiz.

Zero strode down the near deserted sidewalk beside Masaharu. The raven-haired young man sauntering alongside him was still chattering about the four 'o' clock matinee they'd finished not thirty minutes ago. He had no idea why he'd agreed to hang out with the younger male. He could only chalk it up to a need to still feel like he was connected to his former race. The boys of the Day Class admired his strength, intelligence, and said that he was 'cool' but when it boiled down to it, they didn't try to get to know him. Because deep down, he knew they sensed he was different. Masaharu- though a little irritating at times- gave him back those feelings of belonging.

The feeling of belonging was overwhelmed by something else- or someone else. Ever since he'd jerked away from his touch, Kaname had hardly glanced his way and when he did his eyes were brimming with an emotion that made Zero want to embrace the pureblood and whisper soothing words in his ears until only joy shined in those sorrel orbs. He burrowed his fingers through his hair and shoved his hand back into his pocket. Damn. It had been months since he had felt so alone and it was all because of one pureblood. He was snatched from his brooding when something pricked his shoulder. He looked down at Masaharu, as if realizing he was there for the first time. "What?" He growled.

Masaharu, looking over the harsh tone etched in the prefect's voice, continued on the previous subject. "I was saying that you don't have to escort me home. I'm a big boy." He said right before sucking down a swallow of slush from his Mega-Gulpie.

Zero regarded the thin male next to him and shook his head. Masaharu didn't know the dangers of the world he lived in. "Ignorance must be bliss," he mumbled under his breath.

"What?" He asked, turning his attention from his companion's face momentarily to stop and gape at the large flat screen television in the window. "Wow what a rad television!"

Zero gazed at the television dismissively. "Nothing now come on." He resumed their stroll with the other male and soon they were deep in the Downtown district.

Masaharu tossed his drink in a trashcan they passed and checked his white shirt- which sported the image of an electric guitar on its front- for stains. "So, why are you escorting me home, again? Because you like me?" He asked with a charming grin and a devilish sparkle in his azure eyes.

Zero glared at the shorter teen. For some reason the concept of fancying Masaharu rubbed him the wrong way. It wasn't as if he disliked the boy it was just that he didn't enjoy his company in that way. "It's dangerous around here at night," he replied shortly. And you would be prime picking for a Level E. "People disappear and they don't come back."

The dark haired boy grew quiet, scrutinizing the solemn expression on Zero's face. "What like Jack the Ripper or something?" The subsequent glare the other gave him quieted him and they walked the remainder of the distance in an easy silence.

Before they made it to the Masaharu family store, Mainly Music, a familiar and nearly overwhelming aura invaded his senses. Automatically his eyes swept the area, searching for a glimpse of the pureblood. His heart lifted at the opportunity of having a chance to merely see the brunette and this time, he did not deny the feeling.

Kaname stood behind the counter of the music store, waiting patiently for the owner to return with his purchased item. He'd sensed Zero many moments ago and had focused his senses on the prefect. His heart fell when he heard another familiar voice and he'd drawn back, restraining the desire to reach through their bond. Masaharu was with Zero, because they were 'hanging out'. He swept his eyes over the store enjoying the assortment of polished musical instruments hanging on the wall and sitting idly on the floor. The large drum set located in the near the right far wall was something he would have begged for were he still living in the Ichijo manor- not for the sake of learning to play mind you, but for the sake of driving Asato bananas. A smirk played on his lips, but quickly died when the owner, Reiji Masaharu, returned carrying two fine black cases, one in shape of a musical instrument the other plain and square.

The balding man smiled at Kaname and placed both cases on the counter. "Here it is Kuran-sama. Made with the finest aged maple wood, flamed on both the back and sides, and with strings made from the finest Mongolian horsehair," he said proudly. He held up the other case. "Complete with all accessories. Just as you requested."

Zero's gait faltered momentarily when he saw the pureblood standing at the counter. Why was Kaname here? He didn't play music too, did he? He hung back and inspected the electric guitar hanging on the wall near the door while Masaharu ran to the counter, paused to politely greet Kaname, and disappeared in the back. Without hesitating, Zero's eyes began to explore the pureblood's form, roaming past those chocolate tresses, broad shoulders, trim waist, and nice round-- Shit. He turned quickly to hide the blush on his cheeks. What was his problem? He gave the pureblood grief for ogling him and here he was eye-humping the brunette… in public!

Kaname opened his wallet and pulled out a credit card- one without a limit- to pay for his purchase. He'd felt Zero's amethyst gaze burning holes in his back, slowly undressing him, and he'd enjoyed it. Unfortunately, it was gone just as quickly as it started. He almost sighed. God he was pathetic, pining after someone that didn't share his feelings.

The elder Masaharu whistled as the receipt printed. "You must really love this person," he stated half-jokingly, half-admiringly. Lord knows he wouldn't spend that much on his ex-wife if he could help it (even before she cheated on him), not that he hadn't loved her. He was just frugal by nature.

Kaname refrained from throwing a glance over his shoulder at the statement and just gave a curt nod. Sorrel orbs instantaneously found their way to the silver-haired youth sitting at the grand piano in the store's center when he turned around, but darted aside when amethyst globes rose to meet his. He didn't want to hold Zero's gaze, for fear his eyes would betray the turmoil roiling through his system. He was so weak, heartbroken because a Level D spurned his attentions. Tearing his eyes away, he strode towards the door and was almost there when Masaharu returned.

"Wait! Senpai."

He stopped, schooled his features and turned to acknowledge the younger male. "Yes?" It was hard for him not to narrow his eyes when he saw the human male hand Zero some sort of CD with a rather smooth smile on his face. Kaname could think of a few ways to wipe that smile of that face; unfortunately, all of them involved torture and certain death.

Masaharu turned his attention to Kaname. "Would you please give Kiryuu-kun a ride home? He says it's dangerous around here and that people disappear at night."

Zero looked up at the pureblood from his seat on the piano's bench. A surge of pride spiraled through him. He could take care of himself and didn't need Kaname escorting him back to Cross Academy. Surprisingly, though, he did not find himself making any objections to the idea. For now-Lord help him-, he just wanted to be near the pureblood.

Kaname gave a nod, happy to snatch up any solitude he could get with the beautiful prefect. "It won't be a problem."

After being seen off by the father and son duo they got in the sleek black car with cases and all and were soon riding towards the Academy.

They rode in complete silence, with only the steady hum of the engine to pierce it. Zero leaned against the sill of the window, looking at Kaname through hooded eyes. The pureblood sitting near the opposite window was not the person to which he'd gotten accustomed. This person seemed almost detached as if he'd erected a shield around himself to keep out any and everyone. Had he really hurt him that much? No, he couldn't have. Kaname was a pureblood, a being so far out of his league he wasn't even in the same solar system. If anything his recoiling from the other's touch probably just dented his ego.

He sighed as he studied the pureblood's gorgeous face. He didn't care what effect recoiling from the pureblood had taken; all he knew was that he was fed up with this earsplitting silence. A thought sprang into his head, causing him to glance down at his watch. 6:30pm. They would be performing for another two hours. If they went by car they would make it there in ten minutes flat. He glanced at the pureblood, noticing the lack of any emotion on his delicate features. He wanted the pureblood loosened up before they got there. He rose when another thought hit him. "Could you tell him to go to Shinobi Park?"

Kaname raised an eyebrow, wondering why Zero wanted to go to the park this time of day, but complied anyway. After notifying Saji of their new destination they were soon on their way to the park. Kaname tunneled his fingers through his dark locks. Why couldn't he just say something? He wanted Zero to be his, but yet he was being a standoffish idiot just because he found out that Masaharu was a close acquaintance. It had taken him months just to get Zero to look at him with something other than hate swimming in those incredible eyes. Masaharu, however, had gained the prefect's affection without hardly lifting a finger. It was frustrating in the least. His eyes shifted to the silver-haired vampire sitting next to him.

There was no doubt in his mind that he loved Zero above all else, yet here he was feeling sorry for himself because it seemed his object of affection cared for another. He was not going to give up on this boy. If Masaharu wanted Zero he would have to fight for him.

The car came to a halt at the curb leading to the entrance of the park.

Zero glanced at the pureblood, a slightly embarrassed expression pervading his countenance at the thought of what he was about to do. He cleared his throat, getting the other's attention, and stared at the pureblood's enquiring expression. "Um… do you want to come with me?"

A delicate eyebrow rose at the question. Zero was asking him to go somewhere with him? "Into the park?" He mentally kicked himself. Of course into the park.

Zero only nodded, hoping the pureblood didn't reject him in an act of vindictiveness. "Th- there's something I want to show you."

Kaname looked down at the instrument case in his lap, figuring he could present him with his gift upon return. "I would be happy to accompany you." The genuine smile Zero gave liquefied whatever shield he'd erected around himself and he gave a tiny quirk of his lips. "I will call you when we are ready, Saji."

"Yes sir."

He climbed out of the car, using the door Zero had purposely left open, and shut the door. By the time he managed to make it to the entrance the prefect had already paid the toll and was patiently waiting for him. His eyes lit up when he entered the park. Blooming sakura trees, beautiful stone sculptures molded in the likeness of many animals, and many other brilliantly colored flowers were placed strategically throughout the entire park. He smiled softly to himself, marveling at how the park's appearance reminded him of home. His father had been particularly fond of sakura trees. He stepped onto the flagstone path winding through the park and fell in stride with the other male. "Where are we going?"

Zero shot the pureblood a cat-that-ate-the-canary smile, lengthening shadows casting a shade over that handsome face. "You'll see."

Kaname continued to steal glances at the prefect as they sauntered down the paved trail flanked by sakura trees. He was curious by nature and now, Zero's secrecy only peaked even more. His analytical mind had only begun to spin when Zero spoke.

"Figuring it out will only spoil the surprise you know," he stated casually, a knowing expression in those demonstrative eyes.

Kaname, realizing the jig was up, maintained his usual expression with a small hint of feigned innocence. He was enjoying this time spent alone with Zero, but it would not last. Like everything else, these times with Zero faded. They always ended, melting into the flow of time to become fleeting instances glimmering in his sea of memories. He cast his gaze to the shimmering lake, admiring the beautiful backdrop it provided to the tranquility of their botanical surroundings. The park was so peaceful as if the goddess of serenity herself resided here. He 'accidentally' brushed his fingers across Zero's, surprised when the prefect's pinky captured his and held it.

He cut a side-glance to the smaller vampire, heart fluttering when he saw the blush dusting those cheeks. Holding that lavender gaze he playfully swung their hands back and forth. It still amazed him how such minimal contact with Zero could turn him into a fool. They continued down the path in a comfortable silence, enjoying the lack of tension, and stealing glances at each other.

Zero- not releasing Kaname's finger- turned, descended a set of steps, and strode down the cobbled pathway towards the bank of the lake.

Moments later they sat in a blue two-person pedal boat, cycling their way over the tranquil waters of the lake. Zero pointed toward the opposite shore. "We're going that way," he announced, legs moving at a leisurely pace as he pedaled to keep the boat moving.

Kaname nodded, noticing belatedly that Zero provided shade from the sun's last-ditch-effort rays before it sank behind the horizon. He smiled softly at the prefect and swept a gaze over the serene waters, currently dark from the dwindling sunlight. He tilted his head back, noticing the purplish hues dying the once azure sky. It was near sunset. If he were back at Cross Academy he would either be in his room or in the common area amusedly regarding one of Aidou's and Ruka's spats. But, he wasn't at Cross Academy. He was here pedaling across a lake with this wonderful prefect.

Zero filched a sneaky glance at the pureblood next to him. Despite these instances they spent alone, Zero had come to realize that he knew very little about the pureblood- other than the basics. Kaname seemed to know a lot about him, as if he'd been intently observing these last few months, and Zero didn't like that. For a reason he could not understand, he no longer wanted the pureblood to remain an enigma. He wanted, needed to know more about his present companion. But, he knew that Kaname was a private person and he didn't want to be rude. Maybe he would start with a simple question that was a tad above the basics. "Can I ask you a question?" He asked, managing to sift the nervous uncertainty from his timbre. He inwardly sighed, wishing he would have brought along his reel and baits, because a couple of kokanee grilled over a fire sure sounded good right about now.

Kaname- who was catching hell from a single mosquito- gave the silver-haired prefect his full attention. "Yes."

"Even if it's kinda personal?" He asked, a small ounce of timidity laced in his tone. He didn't want to ask Kaname a question that seemed intrusive or bring back the memories that spawned his nightmares.

The idea of Zero wanting to know something personal about him warmed his heart. "You can ask me anything, Zero, and I'll answer truthfully," he replied sincerely. Shit. What if Zero asked him another loaded question? He took in a breath, once again finding time to scold himself for a misstep. He would not retract his statement, though, even if he had to answer a question that could dramatically affect their relationship.

Zero grew quiet, eyes facing the opposite shore as he grasped for the right question.

Kaname soaked up the physical beauty of the prefect, relishing in his flawless features. He marveled at the way the last gentle rays of the sun shined upon Zero's profile, frolicking over his platinum strands to create its own halo. The prefect was an angel. He smiled softly to himself. Zero had to be a fallen angel, because no self-respecting angel would tolerate the attentions of a demon. Before he knew it, he was staring into a duo of limpid amethyst pools. Those expressive eyes softened immediately, drawing him into their undercurrent, an undercurrent from which he never wanted to escape. He smiled softly, raising an eyebrow. "So what do you want to ask?"

Zero turned away, finally realizing that they were no longer pedaling. "Yeah. Um… Do you ever feed on anyone?" Damn, that question sounded a lot better in his head, but now it made him sound as if he were jealous. He was so not jealous! He just wanted to know if Kaname ever drank the blood of any of his little clique. He was curious, not jealous.

A part of Kaname exulted in the question because to him it sounded like Zero was jealous, which was a good thing. "I have not fed upon anyone for quite some time."

Zero looked upon the pureblood with a slightly surprised countenance. Kaname hadn't fed in a long time? Why? Surely, the other nobles would not deny him. "Don't you get hungry?" He asked, regarding the pureblood's face in the evening light. Did Kaname have to be so damned gorgeous all the time?

Kaname smiled gently to himself before allowing his gaze to fall upon the prefect. "Very," he responded. Indeed, he craved Zero's blood unlike anything, but it was of no consequence. He would be content to starve for a thousand years just to taste a single ounce of this prefect's blood.

Zero's eyes broadened slightly. The pureblood was starving, but he didn't drink anyone's blood. "Then why don't you drink someone's blood? I'm sure Aidou or Souen would let you drink if you just ask." He was getting frustrated. A fragment of him was pleased that another vampire's blood had not passed Kaname's lips for a long while, but the nurturing side of him was concerned-worried almost- that the pureblood was starving.

Kaname smiled appreciatively, heart melting at the other's definite concern. "They would Zero, but… I have taken it upon myself not to consume the blood of another for the sake of coexistence and unless it is of the one that I love." He answered genuinely, keeping his eyes upon the ex-human. He did not want to scare Zero away with an outright confession, but he promised he would answer truthfully. Making it a point to look in Zero's eyes as he spoke, the pureblood traversed the depths of those breathtaking amethyst pools, seeking to unravel the layers of emotions shining in them.

The gentleness in those eyes reached into Zero's soul and effortlessly breached the wall of the fortress he'd constructed around his heart. Surely this pureblood that looked at him so tenderly could not be like all the rest of those heartless creatures. Then it hit him. What if Kaname's love interest did not realize his affection for him? What if they refused him? "But what if they don't feel the same way?"

Kaname shrugged, perceiving the earnestness in those lavender depths. It was cute that Zero hadn't the slightest clue that he was the one he loved. "Then it will be my personal mission that they eventually do," he replied determinedly

Zero shook his head. "But, that could take time! Maybe even years!"

He reached out and placed a hand on the prefect's, grinning at the barely-there blush that passed over those angelic features. "Time is something that I have plenty of Zero."

Zero glowered, upset that he pureblood could be so… so… goddamned ascetic. He knew the agony he suffered when he lusted after blood for a few days. He could just imagine the strength of the pureblood's bloodlust after having starved for blood for so long. It must be terrible. "But you'll starve! Won't you go crazy or something?"

Kaname smiled at the prefect, careful not to let the entirety of his emotions show upon his features. "I'll hardly go mad from hunger Zero. But when it becomes hard to bear, I have blood tablets to lessen the blow." His fingertips trailed from Zero's hand, ascending to one of his pale cheeks. "Besides, only the blood of the one that I love can sate my thirst." To his infinite surprise and pleasure Zero turned slightly into his hand, a glare in those beautiful eyes.

"You should take better care of yourself." He chastised lightly, then looked down as if he realized he was starting to care. "Just because you're a pureblood doesn't mean you have to be…" A sheepish blush spread over his cheeks. Kaname's hand was so warm, so exquisitely warm that he felt the heat it brought to his cheek spreading to other places. Shit. He touched Kaname's hand, gently caressing it as he removed it from his cheek. He turned away quickly, giving a trembling exhalation. Did he just get turned on by Kaname touching him? God that was so wrong. "We should get going," he said, swallowing to wet his suddenly dry throat.

Kaname smirked and started pedaling with the prefect. "If you are hungry when this is over, I know an excellent Italian restaurant in the uptown district."

Zero knew he could never afford one of those high-end restaurants Kaname frequented. The soup probably cost like fifty dollars or something, but he didn't want to be rude. He ran a hand through his light colored tresses and gave a shrug.

"Unless you prefer French." His eyes began roaming those lovely features once more, devouring every single detail as if he'd suddenly go blind if he stopped. He merely displayed a smooth grin when the prefect regarded him, enjoying the bashful expression that passed his features momentarily.

Zero continued to pedal, attempting to ignore the hungry gaze Kaname placed upon. After a few minutes of pedaling and a certain pureblood burning holes in his face, he groaned exasperatedly. "Stop staring already," he growled irately.

Kaname chuckled softly.

A while later, Kaname stood on the pier, watching as Zero tugged the pedal boat further onto the shore. To his extreme delight, Zero was bent over, giving him a nice view of that taut little backside. He imagined the prefect naked beneath him, body flushed beautifully, legs spread baring his entrance… A hard shudder snaked its way through him and hot embers formed in the pit of his belly, threatening to descend lower. He took in a sharp breath, controlling his desires, and shifted his gaze elsewhere.

He straightened and faced the pureblood, trying to ignore the fact that he'd been enjoying being ogled. God he was so screwed up. "Okay, this way." They walked a little ways until the applause of an audience wafted to their keen ears on the wind.

Soon they were sitting in the corner of the topmost row of bleachers under a large, white pole tent watching a Bunraku performance. The tent was well-lit with spherical lanterns hanging off each edge of the tent and a chandelier hanging over the stage, casting light and creating the right atmosphere for the bunraku play unfolding before them. They'd both gotten snacks from the so-called concession stand amidst aggravated glares from the audience for disturbing the play. Kaname sat in the corner of the bleachers contentedly consuming a bag of Morinaga black sugar caramels and Zero was seated next to him, sipping his melon-flavored soda.

They sat there quietly along with the rest of the crowd, watching the events unfold on the stage. The sun had long set, but still they watched the spectacle before them. So life like were the puppets' facial expressions, movements, and size that the clearly visible puppeteers manipulating their limbs seemed to disappear. A collective gasp rippled through the crowd when an unexpected plot twist occurred.

Zero directed his attention to the pureblood next to him and a small smile crossed his face. Kaname sat next to him still holding the empty bag of candy, garnet eyes fixated upon the stage. He had never seen the pureblood look so unguarded around a crowd of people. It was as if they were in their own little bubble away from where their statuses mattered. With that expression on his face the older vampire looked so… welcoming. Zero swept his eyes across the room, satisfied when he saw that the spectators' eyes were transfixed on the stage. He couldn't believe what he was about to do, but there was no fighting this craving to be near the pureblood after having been distant from him for over three weeks.

Kaname had been almost completely engrossed in the show when Zero drew nearer, closing the gap between them, and placed a hand on his. Immediately, he directed his attention to the silver-haired youth cozying up to him, heart jack hammering in his chest when Zero rested his head against his shoulder. His lips quivered, wanting to press the softest of kisses on those silken platinum strands. He mentally counted another small victory, knowing that by this recent physical contact Zero was becoming increasingly comfortable in his presence. Hoping that it didn't scare Zero off, he flipped his hand and entwined their fingers.

Kaname stared at the stage, senses focused on everything about Zero. The sound of his soft breaths, his delicious odor, and the warmth of his hand in his, all of it flooded his senses. God how he wanted to take Zero, to hold him, bring him unbridled pleasure, and wallow in his blood. The sensation of his fangs lengthening brought him out of his fantasy. He swallowed, wetting his cotton-dry mouth, and trained his eyes on the stage.

Zero squeezed Kaname's hand and adjusted his head on the pureblood's shoulder for a better fit. Mmmm. Kaname smelled sooo good, like… a mixture of roses and spice married together in one perfect package. The pureblood also made a good pillow. He smiled softly, battling the blush that crept onto his cheeks when he thought about the night they spent in that hotel. With a sly upwards glance, he made sure that the pureblood was engrossed in the play before drawing nearer. He tilted his head back and took a long, slow whiff of the pureblood's dark strands.

Kaname went rigid. Zero was indeed cruel, sniffing his hair in public where he could not retaliate, at least not in the way he desired. Although, that was not to say that he couldn't even the score. A mischievous glint flashed through his russet globes.

Zero shuddered when a feathery 'touch' brushed over the nape of his neck and down his spine. He looked up at the pureblood, glaring at him when he saw the tiny quirk on those sculpted lips. What was wrong with Kaname? He was using his weird pureblood powers to screw with him. In public! The strange and slightly frightening part of the matter was that it felt damn good. Zero gave a small 'humph'. Stupid pureblood making his skin tingle with goose pimples. He thought about drawing away, but knew that if he did it would mean he'd let the pureblood win. So instead he scooted a little closer, gaining a sense of triumph when he felt the older vampire tense.

Kaname restrained the growl threatening to rumble from his throat and closed his eyes in an effort to both conceal the scarlet in them and gain mastery of his body. Zero had no idea how strongly he affected him. He became acutely aware of the thigh pressed against his, the slender fingers interlaced with his, the cheek resting lazily against his shoulder, and the silvery strands brushing weightless kisses along the contour of his neck.

He wanted, ached for, needed Zero. Lord he wished that every part of him currently in contact with his beloved was bare so that he could have the full pleasure of feeling Zero against him, even if it was only through the fabric of his clothing. An unintentional sigh escaped him, causing him to glance down to gage the prefect's reaction. He relaxed. Zero was still watching the show and seemed unaffected.

Zero was not unaffected however. He could not explain it but he had become particularly conscious of his very male companion. It all bludgeoned him simultaneously, flooding his senses and fogging his thoughts. Unexpectedly, all five of his senses zeroed in on the entirety of Kaname Kuran. Olfactory senses were taken prisoner as his nostrils were flooded by the bouquet of intoxicating aromas clothing the pureblood. Keen ears picked up every single shift in his heart rate and breathing, no matter how subtle. Searching amethyst eyes roamed over the heavenly features of the pureblood, drinking in every detail with single-minded dedication. Pale, velvety skin had become so sensitive that he felt as if he could literally count every single pore of the palm pressed so gently against his. These four senses ran wild sending lightning crackling through his body and pulling his rational thoughts deeper into the haze. The only sense denied was taste and he longed to appease. So he tentatively, sensually gave the column of the pureblood's neck a quick lick. Mmmm Kaname tasted so good.

The pureblood shuddered uncontrollably, biting his lip as flames pulsed through his body straight to his pleasure sensors. Since when did Zero act like a horny teenager? He looked down at the prefect, fighting the tremble at the sight that met him. Zero wore a half-seductive half-predatory expression with a very complementing blush that sent a spike of heat straight to his groin. Lovely amethyst eyes were hazed as if he'd gotten too friendly with a bottle of whiskey, nostrils flared as if he were unconsciously scenting something, and brow dampened with perspiration.

He culled the small groan fighting to breach his lips. Zero looked delicious, but he was drunk off his pheromones. He cursed himself. All vampires secreted pheromones when they were excited especially around their chosen mate; it was a normal characteristic of their species. Purebloods like him however, had the strongest type and if let loose in large quantities could greatly affect the senses and behavior of other vampires. Other vampires literally could become drunk off a pureblood's pheromones, like now, which was why they learned to control how much they released.

"Mmm. Kaname you taste good," Zero purred, leaning over to brush his mouth against the pureblood's chin. Had Zero been in his right mind and not flying high on pheromones his face would have been on fire by now. However, seeing as how he was not he just grinned drunkenly at the pureblood regarding him in quiet surprise.

Kaname stared down at the prefect, unable to restrain his very male body's reaction at the sight before him. A seductive smirk was fixed upon those truly kissable lips and hypnotic eyes were thick with intoxication. He took in a sharp intake of breath. Zero… damn. His heart rate doubled and it was all he could do to banish the lustful thoughts and images flickering rapidly through his mind. Drawing in his control, he focused, having to use finesse instead of brute force to rein in his rampaging pheromones.

Zero shook his head. Something was seriously wrong with him. He felt strange. His skin was so… hot as if he'd been pitched into a bed of hot coals and the only one that could cool him down was Kaname. Wait no, that didn't sound right. He didn't want Kaname to cool him down in any shape or form because he didn't feel that way. Did he? Wow, right now he really wasn't sure. Right now, he just wanted release from his aroused state and he was sure Kaname could provide… His eyes widened. Oh god what was he thinking? But wouldn't it feel good, Zero. Wouldn't it feel good to let Kaname--? Then just as sudden as those strange desirous sensations struck him, they dissipated. His mind cleared, leaving him with a slight residual sensation of vertigo.

Kaname looked down at the prefect contritely. It was not his intention for Zero, a Level D that was more susceptible to his pheromones than most, to be bombarded by his pheromones. It was a mistake, something he seemed to be making a lot of lately. The silent glower the boy was giving him was a definite promise that they would be discussing what had just transpired.

Zero glowered at the pureblood. What the hell had Kaname done to him? Although, it didn't seem that it was entirely Kaname's fault because there had been no change in the pureblood's aura. Yet it was weird. One minute he was watching bunraku the next he was solely aware of Kaname and wanted nothing more than to feel the pureblood. Then, it all came back to him. Oh god. Oh god did he lick Kaname? Yes he-- oh fucking god. His eyes broadened. Oh shit. He- he'd brushed his lips across Kaname's skin. His eyes narrowed slightly. Kaname did this to him. He scooted away from the pureblood and stood along with the rest of the crowd to applaud when the bunraku ended.

Zero sat in the small seat, pedaling back towards the park. He was silent. God he couldn't believe what he'd done. He'd come on to Kaname like some sort of sex-crazed teenager. He licked Kaname! Then he'd…. He shuddered. Image of him running his tongue sensually up the pureblood's velvety neck replayed in his mind. Goddammit. He swallowed nervously. God he couldn't believe he'd initiated such intimate physical contact between. He'd bloody licked Kaname for Pete's frigging sake! He cut a glance to the pureblood pedaling quietly next to him.

Oh, but making sexual advances that even a blind monk could catch was not the worst of it. The worst of it- and the reason he couldn't look at the pureblood right now- was that he'd enjoyed it. Kaname's skin was so soft and… delicious and he wanted to do it aga--- oh shit. He- no he didn't want to touch Kaname and slide his hands through those fragrant dark tresses while he kissed that perfect mou---. No, no, no, no, NO! He refused to think of Kaname in that way, he refused to let-- His eyes widened and he glared at the pureblood. This was his fault. "What did you do to me back there?" He demanded more than asked.

Kaname, who'd been thinking of the best way to explain it to the prefect, calmed himself (the spot where Zero had licked him still tingled) and regarded the smaller vampire. "Pheromones."

Zero raised an eyebrow. "What?" What the hell did this have to do with biology?

Kaname marveled for a moment at the way the gentle moonbeams tumbled over Zero's silvery strands, causing them to glow ethereally. "All vampires," he started somewhat hesitantly, "secrete pheromones. It makes it easier to seduce prey." His heart twitched when he caught the swift expression of disdain that passed over Zero's handsome face. "Purebloods like myself also secrete pheromones except ours are more potent. When released in large quantities they can influence the behavior of lower ranking vampires, making them more susceptible to our commands…"

Zero eyed the pureblood critically. "You didn't give me any commands during bunraku Kaname," he replied a bit irately.

Kaname sighed inwardly. He couldn't tell Zero that he'd released so many pheromones because he'd been excited by that one innocent act. That would be damaging to their slightly budding relationship. "They can also lessen one's… inhibitions."

Zero's, who had been unable to look at the pureblood up until then because of his shameful behavior, head snapped around to stare at the pureblood. "What like getting drunk or something?"

Kaname nodded. "Precisely."

Zero returned his attention to the shoreline. So he acted like some kind of lecher because he'd been drunk… off Kaname. He'd been drunk off Kaname. He groaned inwardly. That just sounded wrong on so many levels. A hand ran automatically through his silver hair and he found himself chewing his bottom lip. "Don't you know how to control your own pheromones?"

"Usually," he answered unperturbedly.

"Usually? Well maybe you should try a little harder," he scolded, "I mean I was ready to--!" He stopped abruptly, blushing to the tips of his ears at his almost confession.

Kaname perked up in interest and his heart rate increased dramatically. Had Zero wanted him? Had his pheromones affected Zero so radically that the prefect had wanted to- gulp- make love with… him. The very thought of Zero wanting to make love with him awakened the recently restrained lust and sent it churning through his system, again. But he could not dwell on what the prefect had almost blurted. Zero had been under the influence of pheromones. Bedding Zero right now sounded like music to his starving body, but he would lay with the prefect only if his decision was rational and unclouded.

Zero felt utterly mortified. Lord just take me now. Just put me out of my misery. He knew that by now his face had flushed every shade of red on the spectrum. He didn't even want to look at the pureblood. Kaname was probably disgusted or worse found his near outburst laughable. Kaname was a prince and he was a pauper. And why would royalty cheapen themselves to share a bed with the likes of him? He held his breath, waiting for the pureblood to laugh at his delusions of grandeur, but it never came.

Kaname studied the prefect pedaling next to him. Zero's face was beet red, his shoulders sagged slightly, and amethyst gaze downcast as if he feared to even chance a glimpse his way. At first glance the prefect's expression appeared to be one suffering severe embarrassment, but upon a further inspection a discerning eye could perceive the deeper, more sensitive emotions lying just without the seams of his shield. He could see, feel the prefect withdrawing into himself, and Kaname would be damned if Zero holed himself up in that self-built prison around his heart. "Zero," he called softly.

"What?" Zero replied, trying to sound harsh but failing miserably. He didn't want to look at the pureblood. He didn't want to see an expression on the pureblood's face that would surely skewer his heart. So, he kept his head down and quickened his pace.

Kaname placed a hand on the crown of Zero's head, tenderly rubbing circles with his thumb in those platinum strands. "Look at me." Zero's pain reached him through their bond and the pureblood could feel his own insides starting to crack and splinter. He didn't know what caused this sudden onset of agony, but he wanted it gone. He refused to allow anything to harm his beloved.

Zero shook his head in adamant refusal. For once, he didn't want to look upon those exquisite features.

Kaname took in a breath and leaned over, dropping his hand to rub soothing circles in the other's back instead of drawing him into his arms for fear it would backfire. "Please." Usually when he uttered the p-word it was merely precursory and meant nothing. But this time, he meant it. A pureblood never asked their subordinates to do anything they commanded them because their society demanded nothing less. And for a pureblood to truly ask, using the word please no less was a strike to his pride. His pride, however meant nothing when it came to this boy.

When Zero did not answer, he asked again. "Please."

Zero cracked. He couldn't stand to hear that pleading tone in that rich melodious voice, but he didn't want to see the other's face. Would Kaname's expression be affronted or maliciously ridiculing? He looked up and to his endless surprise and bemusement there was an almost tender expression claiming that beautiful face. What?

Kaname smiled gently at the prefect. "Do you like French?"

Zero's brow's knitted at first but then cleared when he realized what the pureblood meant. He shrugged, eyes savoring the gentle expression claiming those features. This was the second time Zero had seen the pureblood look unguarded tonight. Lilac orbs dropped from those coppery depths to the pureblood's perfectly sculpted lips. Kaname's lips looked so… He quickly corrected his thoughts and lifted his eyes to Kaname's gaze.

"I know a wonderful restaurant uptown called Monte Cristo. The food is rather delicious." A nostalgic expression passed over his face as if he were recalling the taste of one of their scrumptious dishes. "It earned two Michelin Stars and is quite separate from the city's hub."

Zero turned away reluctantly. Like he could ever afford anything on the restaurant's menu. Heck, he only had fifty dollars in his pocket. "Whatever."

Kaname inclined his head slightly and turned away. Zero's aura felt grey, melancholy even and something had caused this shift in less than a few minutes. Something had affected the prefect deeply, and Kaname wanted to know what it was exactly. Maybe, though, a nice conversation over dinner would lift the prefect's mood. "Then it is settled."

A short time passed and after docking the pedal boats they sat on the bench to wait for Saji. Kaname notified the chauffeur of their destination and soon they were riding smoothly up the quasi-busy streets.

Zero gazed out of the window, noticing with somewhat weariness that the scenery started to change. The buildings had become taller and fancier; opulent hotels and apartment buildings crowned with luxurious penthouses towered over sidewalks. Limousines and luxury vehicles met and passed them on the streets, carrying their richly dressed occupants.

They stopped at an upscale boutique much to Zero's befuddlement. With some coaxing, he followed Kaname into the expensive clothes store and nearly had to scrape his jaw off the floor when he saw the outrageous price tag on a single blazer. At first he adamantly opposed the idea of Kaname buying him anything from the wallet-devouring clothing shop, but after being cajoled by the pureblood he found himself trying on blazers to match his shirt. After a very appraising gaze from the pureblood- and the salesclerks- he made a choice and found himself wondering just exactly how much money Kaname had when he saw the receipt.

Kaname glanced at the brooding prefect from his side of the vehicle. He hoped Zero did not think he was trying to change him or something, because that most certainly not the case. "Zero, it is not my intention to change you. If you wish to wear what you have on now into Monte Cristo's I wouldn't have any argument on the matter, because I like you the way you are…" He trailed off abruptly when Zero whirled his head around to face him. Damn not again. Well, no turning back now. "It is just that I don't want you to feel uncomfortable."

Zero gave a half-shrug and returned his gaze to the window. Kaname liked him? No, he wouldn't read too much into it. The pureblood probably meant it in a strictly platonic manner. Which was a good thing, at least that's what he wanted to believe.

Kaname stared at the prefect unsurely. What could he say? Had he done something wrong? Was Zero still upset about the incident during the bunraku play? "Zero honestly, it was not my intention to release so many pheromones."

Zero regarded the pureblood. How in the world could Kaname think that he was still upset about something like that? "That's not it."

"Then what is? Did I say or do something to offend you?" He couldn't stand the idea that he'd done something to hurt the prefect. The car stopped at the curb leading up to the large restaurant.

As soon as the car halted, Zero exited, trying to avoid answering the question. He smoothed down his blazer, begrudgingly liking the way the color contrasted with his eyes. He stared up at the restaurant, his gaze on the lavishly dressed couples striding towards the glass French doors. Unfailingly he felt Kaname's eyes sweeping hungrily over him. He smiled inwardly. The pureblood's seemingly incessant eye-humping was becoming somewhat enjoying even if it meant nothing.

Kaname buttoned his dinner jacket and ran a hand through his dark hair. The prefect never failed to look lovely and it was all he could do not to act upon the impulse to cop a feel (he'd been lucky that night at the hotel). He nodded his head towards the door and led the way into the restaurant.

The restaurant was indeed beautiful, its décor and furnishings giving it a true Parisian ambience. The lighting was perfect, bright enough for a human to see and soft enough for vampires' sensitive eyes. The tables were draped with red cloths, going swimmingly with the maple finished chairs, hard wood tiles, and walls. Even the diners in their costly garb and fine jewelry complemented the restaurant's interior, making it seem even more posh.

He stopped behind Kaname and listened as the pureblood conversed with the hostess. They didn't have any reservations, but that didn't seem to matter because one word from Kaname and they were being ushered to a table in no time. Zero tried to ignore the eyes following him as he walked next to Kaname. Their designated seating was an ideal spot; it gave them a good view of the entire restaurant and its diners while keeping them somewhat hidden from prying eyes.

He sat down, eyes remaining on the exquisite painting hanging on the wall next to them. The painting was of a busy Paris street with the Eiffel tower and a glittering night sky as a backdrop. Wow. Whoever painted this was really good at their job. He wondered who painted it, coming up with only Michelangelo, Da Vinci, or Rembrandt as the likely candidates. So sue him, it wasn't his fault fine art was not his forte.

"Quite exquisite isn't it."

Zero nodded, belatedly noticing his menu. He picked the leather-bound booklet and opened it, finding the golden scripted writing a bit flashy for his taste. He nearly swallowed his tongue when he saw the prices. Geez, he couldn't even afford the damned vichyssoise. This was frigging ridiculous. He was going to starve tonight.

Noticing the other's 'holy hell' expression, Kaname reached over to touch his hand. "Order whatever you like, Zero. This is my treat," he stated amiably.

"No Kaname I--"

Kaname would not hear of it however. "It is the only way for me to repay you for taking me to that marvelous bunraku play."

"The bunraku was free Kaname and this blazer cost a mint." Kaname allowed him to drink his blood, he didn't rat them out when they had Salem, he'd saved his life from the Hunter, and now he'd purchased a blazer for him. He was so far in the pureblood's debt he couldn't see a way out.

Kaname had suspected Zero would say this and he had the perfect way to counter. "I bought your blazer because I wanted to. So, consider it a gift just like this dinner."

Zero swiftly raised his eyes to gaze stoically at the pureblood. Kaname treated him to dinner because he wanted to and not just because he felt like flaunting his sizeable funds. This pureblood was indeed a complicated man. He gave resigned sigh. Still, though, he was going to find a way to repay the pureblood.

He withdrew his hand and gave a small smile.

Zero gave a faint lop-sided smile and returned his attention to the menu, holding it up to hide his burning cheeks.

The waitress returned when Kaname signaled they were ready to order, placing a bowl of gougeres between them. "What will you have Kuran-sama?" She asked, casting a discreet salacious glance to the pureblood.

Ignoring her lascivious glances, Kaname merely began his order: beef bouringnon with a slice of baguette bread and a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon wine to accompany his meal.

Jotting Kaname's order down as he spoke with practiced efficiency the waitress turned to Zero. "And what will you have sir?"

Zero ordered duck a l'orange, opting to have the same wine as Kaname since he'd ordered an entire bottle. He watched the waitress walk away before picking a gougere from the bowl and biting into it. He savored the creamy texture of the Gruyere cheese and the cloud-puff texture of the pastry enshrouding it.

Kaname studied the silver-haired vampire, finding every change in his expression enjoyable. "Fond of gougere I see," he said, voice revealing a sliver of his amusement. He picked one of the puffy balls from the bowl and took a dainty bite.

Zero nodded. "I've made them dozens of time," he answered after swallowing a morsel.

Zero cooked as well? Again Kaname found himself ever more attracted to the ethereally handsome prefect. The prefect knowing his way around the kitchen was good thing since Kaname himself didn't know how to boil water. He rested an elbow on the table and rested his chin on the back of his hand. "Well," he said smoothly, "it seems that you, Zero-kun, are full of pleasant surprises."

The heated expression smoldering in those russet eyes drove a shiver down Zero's spine and sent his heart racing. Geez he had never seen the pureblood's gaze so intensely… desirous. The older vampire looked as if he wanted to consume him whole and lick his fingers when he was done. Entirely of their own will his traitorous eyes slid to the pureblood's luscious lips and Zero found himself wondering if Kaname's mouth was as soft as it appeared. Red flags sprang up in his head, alerting him that he was approaching a dangerous line of thought.

He lifted his eyes to the painting, finding it his only exit. "So, this painting is really beautiful," he spoke awkwardly.

Kaname didn't take his eyes off Zero. Why would he want to look upon a silly old composition of color and shapes splattered onto a piece of paper to imitate life when he had his very own exquisite work of art sitting across from him? "Exquisitely so," he replied, eyes still roaming over the other's features.

Kaname wasn't looking at the painting. He eyed the pureblood with slight vexation. "You're not even looking at it." Oh god. This was a bad idea. Why had he agreed to come here with the pureblood? This was only going to end in disaster.

Kaname gave a nod of thanks to the attendant when she poured crimson wine into their fluted wineglasses and left, leaving the bottle. He picked up the glass, swirling the liquid around in it as he gazed intently at the other male. "I've seen it before, besides I must confess that my attention has been captured by a much superior masterpiece," he responded smoothly. Pleased russet orbs stayed upon Zero, sparkling only slightly when scarlet tinged his cheeks upon realization.

Did Kaname just call him a masterpiece? The pureblood was screwing with him, he had to be, because there was no way he could say something like that to him and mean it. Zero was quite aware that he was rather easy on the eyes, but he didn't think that someone like Kaname would ever notice (not that he cared) or say it so forthrightly. No. No frigging way was he going to melt all over the pureblood just because he spouted pretty words. He was a man dammit, not a skirt. "I'm not a painting Kaname," he snapped- at least tried to-, failing miserably at lacing his tone with venom. This was crazy!

Kaname placed the glass on the table and continued to gaze upon Zero with those penetrating eyes. "True, but is not art, as is beauty, in the eye of the beholder?"

Zero was about to answer when he realized it was a rhetorical question. He allowed his eyes to drift until they met the pureblood's, and soon he was suffocating under the intensity of that gaze. No, no, no, no. Kaname could not mean these things; he could not think he was beautiful. The pureblood was just spouting meaningless words to gain his affection so he could rip him to shreds later. Kaname was playing him, he had to be. If that were true, then why were his beautiful sorrel depths swarming with sincerity?

Reckoning that he should give the prefect a little air to breathe, even if he did want to smother him with love and affection, Kaname glanced up at the painting. "This painting was actually done by the owner of this very restaurant."

"Really?" Zero said, eager to latch onto another subject that would not make him feel all shivery and hot at the same time. "He's really talented."

Kaname shrugged dismissively. "He's a pureblood."

Zero started, feeling completely unsafe all of a sudden. "Oh."

Catching the sudden tension in the prefect's posture and aura, Kaname gave a faint quirk of his lips. He was about to explain to the prefect why it was okay to relax when their plates, both decorated with appetizing food, were placed in front of them. He discreetly gave the prefect's hand a relaxing pat before digging into his own food.

The two talked quietly amongst each other, finding that they both rather enjoyed each other's conversations. As they conversed they found that they had more in common than what they thought. While Kaname did initiate most of the topics, Zero participated just as much in taking their subjects to different planes where their conversations became deep and engaging.

Kaname marveled at the silver-haired prefect. Zero had always been so unnecessarily hostile and angry towards everyone but a handful of people that Kaname had thought for a long while the boy could only comprehend hatred. Now, he saw that he'd been dead wrong. Zero was actually quite intelligent. He was about to tell him so when a ghostly touch brushed over his neck. What was he doing here? He hardly ever paid a visit to his restaurant. Great, the night he finally gets to bring Zero to one of his favorite restaurants and he drops by.

Zero saw the barely visible stiffening of the pureblood's posture. He was about to ask if something was wrong when the brunette turned his attention to the left. Following the pureblood's gaze, his eyes landed upon the current problem. A person- he couldn't tell if they were man or woman- was approaching the table. The person was quite lovely with auburn hair that fell into striking silver eyes and graced thin shoulders. He saw Kaname stand so- because the brunette asked with his eyes- he stood as well, thankful that even though the nosy diners strained their necks they still could not see them.

Once the person was close enough, Zero saw that he/she was his height but at least twenty pounds lighter. Okay, he knew that his features weren't the most masculine in the world but this person's features were weirdly androgynous. The outfit he/she wore was not helping either being that it wasn't exactly snug fitting and could hide curves with ease. Zero soon found himself having to fight the urge to let his eyes descend to see if he could make out breasts beneath that shirt.

Kaname gave a respectful bow to the person. "It is nice to see you again," Kaname greeted the other calmly. Inwardly, he sighed. He knew that Naoki never skimped on a chance to stay in his company as long as possible and, unfortunately, was going to ingratiate himself into their dinner. Of course, Kaname would not refuse, seeing as how Naoki was his elder and one of the only purebloods whose company he didn't mind.

The other pureblood smiled genuinely at Kaname. "You as well, Kaname-kun, seeing as how it has been a few years since we've seen each other," he stated, seemingly unaware of the silver-haired vampire standing near the table.

Kaname ignored the appraising expression in the other's eyes and directed his attention to Zero. "Zero-san, this is Kogatsu Naoki. Naoki-san this is Kiryuu Zero," he introduced them formally. He maintained his neutral expression as the other pureblood scrutinized Zero in a single once-over. He knew Naoki. The raven-haired pureblood was known for liking rare and exotic things and Zero would indeed fit the bill with his unique coloring.

Naoki eyed Zero's hair and eyes. "That is an interesting coloring you have Kiryuu-kun," he stated interestedly. He signaled a nearby waitress, offering a thank you when she approached them carrying a chair. He placed the chair at the end of the table and sat down.

Zero sat down, still a bit uneasy. Okay, this vampire was a boy, that had been established, but he'd used kun at the end of Kaname's name. That meant that the two knew each other. Zero looked suspiciously at the other pureblood, striving to banish the weird and unwanted emotion nagging at his insides. He grew quiet and merely observed the two as they conversed.

"You are looking well, Kaname-kun," he stated, pouring wine into a spare glass. He leaned nonchalantly into his chair, keeping his eyes on the younger pureblood. Kaname had grown up well. He was a far cry from the innocent child he'd known nearly eight years ago.

Kaname donned his impenetrable armor as he always did when he was in the presence of any vampire aside from Zero and Takuma. Naoki was not his enemy, but there was a certain amount of emotion he was apt to show when in any pureblood's presence. Naoki seemed harmless, but then again so did all predators before they slaughtered their prey. "As are you."

Naoki crossed his slender legs and supped his wine, penetrating eyes trained on the younger pureblood. "Are you still at Cross Academy?"

Kaname swallowed a morsel of beef and nodded. "Yes."

"Still carrying on your parents' crusade for coexistence?" He asked a tinge of disdain in his tone.

Zero chewed to keep from frowning. Who was this guy?

Kaname, ever unflappable, finished off the last of his dinner before addressing Naoki's comment. He looked the other pureblood levelly in the eye before speaking, "it is my crusade."

Seeing Kuran's displeasure Naoki popped the top from the wine bottle and refilled Kaname's glass. "Of course. It is the fate of every child to take up the mantle of their parents' cause especially when said cause is a good one." He supped his wine and threw the younger vampire a tiny smile. "I'm sure if your parents were alive, they would be proud of all that you have accomplished at the Academy," he said sincerely.

Zero extricated himself from the conversation by polishing off the last of his dinner. It's not that he was afraid of Naoki- let's face it the guy basically had nothing going for him in the intimidation department-; he just didn't want to gain any notice. After all Naoki was a pureblood and if the two of them wanted to converse only amongst each other he was happy with it. Although, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of longing at the fact that he would never be part of Kaname's world.

Kaname tried to get Zero to participate in the conversation (seeing as how Naoki was one of the few purebloods in Kaname's favor), but it was futile. Zero replied with a quick yes or no, or worse a mere shrug. He couldn't help but be a little miffed at the auburn-haired pureblood's timing. However, he couldn't fault the pureblood, after all how would he have known he was having a dinner with his beloved.

During a brief stretch of silence Naoki leaned over and glanced down at Zero's hands. Perceptive silver eyes noted each movement of the prefect's slender fingers.

Zero was thinking about how much he wanted to be back in his dorm room away from the new pureblood when someone addressed him: "Are you a musician?"

Zero raised his eyes, surprised at the question-even if he didn't allow it to show on his face.

Naoki gave a slightly self-satisfied smirk. "Your fingers are graceful and skilled like a musician's." He looked at Zero through slightly derisive eyes, jealous of anyone that garnered Kaname's affection. "Let me guess…," he feigned contemplation, "piano?"

Zero regarded the older vampire momentarily, wanting to wipe that smug smile off his face. The rebellious streak in him reared its head. "Violin actually."

Naoki's eyes glittered. "Ah. Any favorites? I'm partial to Paganini's La Campanella myself," he answered without being asked. "Kaname-kun what about you?"

"Bach's Air on the G string," he answered, gaze flittering back and forth to Zero so he could discern any discomfort on the prefect's part.

Zero shrugged. "I like both of those, but my favorites would have to be Pachebell's Canon in D and Chopin's Nocturne number 20."

Naoki gave a condescending smile. "I'm afraid the latter was composed on the piano," he pointed out.

Zero shook his head. "Actually Mikola an artist from America just released a CD in which she plays it on the violin," he responded, voice even. Why was he even talking to this pureblood? He caught the sparkle in Kaname's eyes and he felt his heart skip a beat.

Naoki took everything in stride, giving a small nod. "I would very much like to hear it one day." He circled the rim of his glass with a finger. Although, he knew showing interest in the prefect was a no-no he couldn't help be intrigued by a lowly creature with such talent. "But you do play the piano right? Only the fingers of a pianist weave a story whenever they move," he stated poetically.

Kaname maintained his calm. Naoki was a bit… excessive but he would not come on to Zero, at least not in his presence.

Zero looked at the man somewhat strangely. Who the hell speaks like that? Weirdo. He shrugged. This guy had no sense of privacy.

Naoki diverted his attention to Zero for the time being. Kaname's new plaything was indeed very appealing. He was jealous; Kaname always got the best toys. "Oh. One of my favorites is Fur Elise by Beethoven."

"Moonlight Sonata," Zero answered without hesitation.

Kaname gave a soft smile. "It would seem we have that in common Zero-san."

The corners of Zero's lip trembled, threatening to pull into grin as he tried to pretend that he was unaffected by that beautiful grin or those incredible eyes.

Their waitress for the evening approached and cleared the table, asking if they were ready for dessert. Kaname ordered ile flottatante (a dessert with crème anglaise topped with meringues, drizzled with caramel sauce, and sprinkled with pralines) and Zero decided to have the crème brulee. The waitress gave a bow and returned to the kitchen behind the swinging double-doors. After growing tired of listening to the other two chat, Zero excused himself and strode towards the bathroom.

Kaname watched Zero go, less adept at concealing the wistfulness in his eyes than believed. He wished he and Zero were still alone. He'd been thoroughly enjoying Zero's company until Naoki showed up. Now, his prefect had retreated into his fortress, shutting himself off from the outside world even though he was sitting right here.

Naoki watched the younger pureblood's eyes, perceiving the minutest sliver of emotion in their guarded depths. Kaname had a thing for this Level D? Ridiculous. He frowned inwardly. Of course the notion would have been ridiculous if it were any other pureblood. But it wasn't just anybody, this was Kaname Kuran. Grey eyes slid over the younger pureblood's features. "He will ruin you, you know." He leaned into his comfortable chair, sipping on the crimson liquid remaining in his wineglass.

So? Kaname could care less about Zero 'ruining' him, because he was a devastated husk without the ex-human. "I don't care," he replied determinedly.

Naoki stared at the brunette for a stunned moment before shaking his head. "The others will not approve of this Kaname." He leaned forward, speaking barely above a whisper, a somberness etched on his effeminate features. "For a pureblood to have a Level D for anything more than their thrall is considered sacrilege, damning by vampire standards."

Kaname stared levelly at the nearly too lean pureblood, darkness shrouding those eyes. "Then let me be damned, for I will have my life no other way," he said, ironclad conviction lining his tone. Even if it meant he had to walk a thousand roads paved with thorns, he would never let go of his beloved prefect. "And I would appreciate it if you refrained from calling him a Level D."

Naoki's gray eyes softened at the quiet strength lining the other's timbre. He couldn't help but give the younger pureblood a yearning look. Ever since that summer Kaname had come to stay at his house with his parents, he'd been irrevocably enamored with the dark-haired beauty. He leaned on the table. "I have not heard such passion in your voice since you declared you were going to follow in your parents' footsteps that night under the gazebo."

Kaname placed the rim of the wineglass to his lips, getting ready to take a sip and also to keep his lip from twitching. Why couldn't he ever maintain control of his mask when it came to even the slightest thing pertaining to Zero? Perhaps that was the reason why he loved Zero, because his mask was about effective as a newborn kitten when it came to the prefect. He regarded Naoki, noticing the yearning in those eyes.

Naoki fixed his gaze on the wineglass. "I wish you could speak about me like that Kaname-kun. I wish that I could evoke such passion in your voice."

Kaname preserved the neutral expression on his face.

Naoki placed a hand on top of Kaname's, leaning over to gaze earnestly into those sorrel eyes. "All I ask is for your affection, Kaname-kun, for you to look at me with such desire in your eyes."

Kaname refrained from rejecting Naoki as harshly as he wanted. He could sympathize with the young man, after all his love as of yet was unrequited. "Naoki…"

Naoki gripped Kaname's hand tightly, desperate for the younger vampire to hear him out. "If you would have me, I promise to do whatever you want whenever you want. I would be happy to surrender myself to you and…" He leaned closer, eyes glued to Kaname's. "I would even let you be top."

Zero sniffed his hands, thankful for the subtle odor of the hand soap instead of the excessively perfumed soaps used in restaurants owned by humans. He'd just rounded the corner where the table was in plain view when he stopped at the sight. Naoki was leaning close to Kaname, hand atop his, eyes gazing meaningfully at the other pureblood. Kaname was not pulling away.

Zero backpedaled to the corner and just stood there. Why wasn't Kaname pulling away? Was Naoki taking advantage of the fact that Kaname wouldn't dare cause a scene in a restaurant full of humans by coming on to him? Zero shook his head. No Kaname would find a way to withdraw discreetly if he wanted.

He peeked around the corner, a surge of a very familiar emotion when the well-manicured fingers of the other pureblood's hand slightly entwined with Kaname's. That emotion -let's call it what it is-, jealousy fizzled and faded to resignation when he came to harsh realization. Kaname wasn't withdrawing because he didn't mind. Were Kaname and Naoki lovers? He chewed his lip and pressed his back against the wall. Of course they were lovers. They were both purebloods. Why would Kaname want a Level D when he could so obviously have someone of his own status? He was a past time. He slammed the drawbridge to the fortress around his heart, trained his features, and prepared to walk to the table.

Kaname calmly withdrew his hand from Naoki's. "My heart is no longer available."

Naoki seemed to draw into himself, appearing even smaller than usual.

Kaname discerned the pained and upset emotions fluttering across the other's soft features, seeing the slow-burning anger smoldering beneath the surface. He glued his gaze to the other pureblood. If Naoki tried to harm Zero, friend or not he would kill him. He'd killed a pureblood before to protect his dear Yuki and he would repeat the same offense with a smile on his face if it meant protecting Zero.

Naoki, detecting the darkening mood in the pureblood's aura simply smiled knowingly. "Do not worry I will have no ill-intent towards your ex-human." He smiled sadly at the younger pureblood. "I would never commit an act to garner your disfavor, because you are the only thing that I don't see as an object."

Perhaps that was why he did not love the other pureblood because Naoki reminded him of the aristocrats that worshipped him. Although, he knew that just like every pureblood, Naoki had a dark side. "You would risk grisly torture to keep my secret safe?"

Naoki merely gave a lazy shrug of his slender shoulders. "Torture is merely a physical state that can be overcome easily by the mind's sanctuary." Then he gazed soberly at Kaname, silver eyes disheartened. "I will keep this secret all the days of immortal life."

Zero sat down quietly, wanting nothing but to be invisible at the moment. He wanted to leave because he didn't feel like being the third wheel. This was so awkward. Why didn't he just get up and leave like he so desperately desired?

Kaname instantly noticed the change in Zero's aura. What was wrong? He picked up his glass when Naoki finished pouring it and took a sip, russet eyes upon the boy across the table. Zero had shut himself off.

Naoki-who was blissfully oblivious to the prefect's souring mood- poured himself another half-glass of the crimson liquid. "Oh!" He said as if remembering something important. "Oh, Kaname-kun, did I tell you?"

Kaname's attention shifted to the older pureblood, eyes enquiring. What now? Kaname could feel himself growing upset. Zero had been opening up to him quite well before Naoki showed up. Now, he was going to have to at least coax to the boy into showing some fragment of his heart before this evening was over.

Naoki's eyes sparkled happily. "I've decided that my latest work will portray the Ancestor in all his glory."

Kaname felt his stomach flop. What?! Why? Why did Naoki have to do such foolish things? Why was Naoki always treading upon things that were best left undisturbed?

Zero raised his head at the word 'Ancestor'. "Who is the 'Ancestor'?"

Kaname cut a glance at the other pureblood.

Naoki gave a shit-eating grin and stood. "Well I would love to stay and chat a little longer, but sadly, my business partner just walked through the door and I must chat with him about finances and all of that boring drivel," he explained with a dismissive edge to his voice. He gave a polite bow and departed the table.

Dessert didn't go as good as the main course of their dinner. Kaname tried several times to draw Zero from his brooding, but only ended up getting the prefect to participate rather curtly. He sighed within himself. Zero was pushing him away, again. After a lengthy silence- and their desserts were consumed- Kaname paid the check and they departed the restaurant for Cross Academy.

Zero sat in the back seat of the car, gaze focused on the window in silent contemplation. Though his eyes were focused on the window they were unseeing of the posh scenery without it. His eyes kept seeing Naoki's hand atop Kaname's and the adoring expression on his face. What was wrong with him? He didn't care about Kaname in a romantic way. So why was this bothering him so much? He frowned and dropped his head. God why was he so fucking screwed up?

Kaname reached out to Zero through their one-sided bond, heart clenching when he received a jumbled cocktail of emotions that he had yet to categorize when the prefect managed to unconsciously shut him off. This was not what he wanted. With Zero withdrawing from him, the car suddenly felt cold and he felt alone. He fisted his hands, thinking of what he could do to make his dear prefect feel better. With a smile he reached down and retrieved the carrier bag from the floor and placed it between them. "Zero."

Zero looked up at the pureblood enquiringly, logging each and every flawless feature the brunette possessed.

Kaname nudged the case to the prefect, affectionately admiring the adorably questioning countenance the prefect adopted. "Open it," he said, unable to squash the anticipation in his voice. He hoped Zero would accept his gift, but he knew the prefect had pride and would more than likely refuse it. He just wanted to see happiness etched across those perfect features, because he lived for Zero's pleasure.

He tilted his head to the side when the pureblood gave a nervous smile.

Zero flipped the latches on the hard case and lifted the lid. His eyes widened. What--? In the case was an impeccably made violin. No freaking way. He stared at the glossy aged maple wood body of the instrument and its fine strings. Kaname had actually bought him a violin. He looked up through silver bangs at a clearly anxious pureblood then back down at the violin. This could not be real. This-- this had to be some sort of prank, right? Again, he glanced up at the pureblood. The unsure expression on the other's countenance told him that this was no joke. "What is this?"

Kaname raised a delicate eyebrow. "It's your violin."

Zero shook his head, still staring at the hand-carved instrument. There was no way he could accept this.

Kaname's shoulders fell. "You don't like it?"

Oh god that wasn't it. "No. I love it. I just…" He looked up at the pureblood resolvedly. "I can't accept this. You have to take it back."

The pureblood shook his head. "I would like to Zero, but I cannot." He reached over and plucked the violin from the velvety confines of its case. Leaning over so Zero could see, he pointed to the lower right side of the instrument.

Zero's brow rose when he saw his name inscribed upon the wood in flowing calligraphy.

"Your name is inscribed in it and that means it's yours. If I take it I would be stealing. And well…" He gave a sly smile. "I am no thief." He returned the violin to its case and elegantly crossed his legs, regarding the prefect with a quite satisfied countenance. "If you don't want it you could throw it away." Of course, he knew Zero would do no such thing.

Zero sighed resignedly. Disposing of such an impeccably carved instrument was stupid. Damn pureblood. "Why?" Why would Kaname buy this for him? Why would he go through all of this trouble for no reason? Did Kaname care that much? Or did he pity him?

Kaname gave a slightly self-deprecating smile. "I'm afraid it was because of the entirely selfish desire to hear you play," he confessed, eyes smoldering intensely.

"Oh," Zero said in a soft voice. Even though he knew that Kaname didn't love him, or probably would never love him- not that it was any skin off his back- , he still wanted to hold him, kiss him, taste those sculpted lips. He dropped his eyes from the intensity of that gaze to the stringed instrument in his lap. Kaname wanted to hear him play. There was no way he could actually pay the pureblood back, except playing for him.

"But…you don't have to play for me right now." He leaned over and placed a hand on the other's soft cheek. "Take your time," he said softly, hand trailing down Zero's cheek to tilt his chin up, "I can wait." He was telling the truth. He could wait for Zero, for however long it took for him to give him his heart. I can wait Zero, because I love you.

The depth of emotion brimming in those breathtaking russet eyes caused Zero's breath to hitch. He had a feeling that Kaname wasn't just referring to the violin. "Thank you," he replied, a smile spreading across his lips.

The genuineness behind that smile sent a spike of joy through the pureblood's lonely heart and he found himself returning the favor. Indeed, whatever shields he'd erected against the world were no match for this beautiful boy. "You're welcome."

A comfortable silence stretched between them. Kaname intently watched as Zero glided adept fingers over the violin's buttery frame and gave its strings a few experimental plucks. Zero's contentment flowed over and through him, gladdening his heart and piercing the darkness that at times shrouded his mind. He smiled softly when the prefect gave the instrument an anticipative smile, as if promising it many days of extensive use. He leaned back in the leather seat, in the mood for a little music. He pressed a button patching through to Saji and politely ordered the chauffeur to play a little music.

Soon, a melodious tune filled the back of the limousine, relaxing its occupants.

Zero closed the case, locking the latches, and placed it on the opposite seat. He reached over and grasped Kaname's hand, smiling lopsidedly when the pureblood gripped his hand gently. Why did he always want to be near this pureblood? And the relaxed mood the music put him in was not helping. He scooted close to the pureblood until their shoulders were hardly inches apart, blushing fitfully. Zero had no idea why, but every time they were alone there was this overwhelming need to be near the other vampire, to feel his warmth, to feel like his company was wanted. He didn't know when, but he knew soon Kaname would realize that he wasn't even worth his time and would throw him to the side. He hoped, though, that day wasn't soon.

Kaname moved slowly until their shoulders touched. He wanted to encircle Zero in his arms and hold him close until the shadows plaguing him ceased. He knew better though, he knew not to move too fast. Zero had been through hell for the last five years of his life and had succeeded in assembling a nearly impregnable exterior of stone. He had to let Zero come to him of his own free will, to do otherwise was to provoke the prefect into blindly striking. Their eyes locked and for a brief moment, both youths found themselves drowning in each other's eyes.

The limousine came to a halt, breaking the spell between them.

Zero remained seated for a few seconds. They were back at Cross Academy, where the difference between their statuses was ever apparent. He released the pureblood's hand and exited the car, leaning over to retrieve the violin carrier, eyes sparkling softly when he realized the pureblood had picked up the case carrying the accessories. Zero looked over the hood of the car at the pureblood, quickly averting his eyes when Kaname met his gaze. Zero wanted to--- He really did, but he couldn't. It was too stupid and oh so many kinds of wrong. How would Kaname react if he knew? Would he laugh?

The car pulled off and they walked through the gate, neither speaking.

Zero cast a side-glance at the pureblood, cheeks burning at the thoughts going through his mind. He couldn't do it, but… He just… wanted to so badly that the thought of passing up his chance left a bad taste in his mouth. Without thinking, he took a left at the first building and strode down the alley and past the spruce trees until they ended up in the gardens. He had to do this or he may not get another chance. He knew that Kaname didn't love him and he-- well he didn't know how he felt anymore (of course he liked to think that it wasn't love). However, he was determined to do this. He sat the case upon the cobbled path, eyes sweeping absently over the vibrant plant life sprawling before them.

Kaname stared up into the glittering night sky. He never tired of gazing at the bejeweled beauty of the heavens. "The stars are beautiful tonight." He inclined his head when Zero didn't respond, and remained unmoving instead, hands fisted at his sides. He approached the prefect, stopping a few steps away. "Is something wrong?" Zero had been acting closed off ever since he'd returned from the bathroom at Monte Cristo's.

Zero turned to the pureblood and strode to him, a resolved look on his face. He was going to do it. He was going to kiss Kaname Kuran, the pureblood prince.

Kaname studied Zero closely, noticing the almost longing expression in those eyes as they instinctively dropped to his lips and back up to his meet his gaze. Oh god. Did-- swallow- did Zero want to kiss him? The very thought sent a pleasant tingle up his spine. No. Zero couldn't want to kiss him, could he? He dared to hope, but it couldn't be so. He was just seeing what he'd yearned to see for so long swimming in those incredible eyes.

Zero's resolve crumbled as he gazed into those encompassing russet depths, giving way to painful uncertainty. Kaname was a pureblood, a god among insects. Kaname is a pureblood prince what would he want with a lowly creature like you? He couldn't do it; Kaname would only push him away. Of course, he wasn't gay; he just wanted to experience this type of affection with the pureblood. He wanted to taste Kaname, but alas it was just the wishful thinking of a delusional pauper. A sigh of defeat rushed past his lips. Impossible. He turned away from the pureblood. He couldn't handle Kaname rejecting him, not right now, not when the need to be near the pureblood relentlessly gnawed at him.

Kaname grasped Zero's wrist, hindering his escape.

Zero grew still, wanting to run, to get away from the pureblood taunting him, but unable because his legs chose to ignore his brain. He grit his teeth and turned, fully intending to command the pureblood to release him. However, his tirade was over before it even began when he gazed upon the pureblood. Amethyst eyes roamed over Kaname marveling at the way the pureblood's skin simply glowed in the moonlight.

Kaname gazed at Zero, breath hitching in his chest at the way the moon graced his delicate features and highlighted them nearly tenfold. Beautiful. How could such a beautiful, pure creature want such a soiled being like him? He would not question why Zero wanted him- if he ever would- but he was definitely not apt to give his prefect up any time soon. He was in way too deep and he didn't care to keep his head above water.

But, he had to ask. He had to know Zero wanted this. "Just now," he said slowly, angry at himself for hesitating, "did you want to kiss me?"

Shit. Did Kaname have to be right all of the time? Zero felt the familiar heat rise to his cheeks and he knew they were bright red. Did Kaname want to kiss him too? Was his constant staring, the way his features would soften when he looked upon him, and his uncharacteristic affection towards him something more than some elaborate ploy to ensnare him? He raised his eyes to the pureblood, unable to ignore the electricity crackling between them, and gave a small nod. "It's okay-- um- I know you wouldn't wanna--" Zero broke his sentence off when he found himself encircled within two strong arms and pressed flush against a very male body.

Kaname leaned down, nearly sighing when Zero tilted his head back in response. Their eyes melted together for a brief instance before he captured Zero's lips with his. Sparks did not fly, fireworks didn't explode, and neither did electricity crackle between them. The earth moved.

Their kiss was chaste at first, their lips remaining closed, but that soon changed. It wasn't enough. Kaname needed more. He needed to deepen their kiss; he needed to taste Zero. Gently he played his tongue over Zero's lips, nipping tenderly as he quested for entrance.

Zero happily complied with Kaname's wish, readily parting his lips to allow the pureblood access.

Kaname happily entered, an ardent growl escaping him as he plunged his tongue into Zero's warm cavern and melded them together. He explored Zero's mouth, skillfully swiping sensual caresses over every inch of the prefect's inner mouth. He wickedly teased Zero's aroused fangs, stomach clenching when the prefect gave a moan and pressed closer. God, he had been famished, aching for this contact, and now that he had it he found it exceeded his expectations.

Zero's head was spinning. God this felt good. Nothing mattered right now, not their statuses, not their genders or any of the other hurdles that seemed to keep them apart. Only this moment in time, the feelings spiraling through him, and this sweetest of contacts mattered. Shudders snaked through him as Kaname's hands roamed, coming to rest at the small of his back and the base of his neck where nimble fingers began massaging sensual circles. He drew closer, leaning into the pureblood as if trying to become one with him.

Zero followed Kaname's retreating tongue, enthusiastically diving into the pureblood's warmth. He smiled softly into the kiss, reveling in how the pureblood tasted of praline and wine. A jolt of surprise filled him when the pureblood gave a moan and he found himself growling in response.

Passion inflamed both boys and soon tongues fervently danced, lips hungrily worked, and hands aimlessly roamed.

The pureblood trembled as Zero's tongue probed the depths of his mouth, letting out a moan as that same tongue erotically waltzed its way over his already near painfully aroused fangs. He tried to control himself, he truly did, but the starving vampire within and Zero's deft ministrations undid him. All it took was the 'accidental' slip of a fang to prick the other's tongue as it brushed past. The deliciously alluring scent of Zero's blood filled his nostrils as it bubbled forth from the unintentional wound. Instinctively he captured the prefect's retreating tongue and began to suck, drawing blood from the wound.

Mmm. Zero's blood was so good. He mewled, ecstatic just to taste a single drop of Zero's crimson essence. That joy however was short-lived when, through the red haze clouding his rational thoughts, he felt the other's panic. Wresting the urge to draw more blood from the beautiful prefect, he let go, a spire of pain striking him as Zero quickly retreated from him. Stupid! You ruined everything. After all of this time, Zero had finally trusted him enough to share something so intimate with him and he'd screwed it up. Even now as Zero stood at the rim of striking range, caution filling those mesmerizing eyes, he wanted him. He knew that he was supposed to say something to rectify the situation but the scent of Zero's luscious blood still lingered in the air, and it was all he could do to restrain a whine when Zero spit the remaining blood from his mouth.

Zero stood there, speechless. His amethyst orbs remained upon the vampire opposite him. He was perfectly aware that Kaname was a pureblood, but he had never seen him look so…predatory (and oddly sexy). With his eyes burning scarlet Kaname was not the pureblood that looked at him so gently; this pureblood had the expression that it would bring him great pleasure to drink him dry. He took another step back, resisting the urge to reach for Bloody Rose. Even now as he felt hunger, lust pulsing from the pureblood's aura in waves, he could not bring himself to draw his weapon on the older vampire.

Kaname yearned for Zero. He wanted to pounce upon the silver-haired vampire and feast upon his blood until his thirst was sated. God he was so hungry, but the obvious alarm fluctuating through his beloved's aura drew him from the red haze seeking to gain mastery of his thoughts. "Forgive me Zero. Your blood it…" He said in a rush, cutting his sentence off abruptly. What could he say? He'd marred a completely perfect moment between them by nearly vamping out. Why would someone like Zero want a person like him, a pureblood that couldn't even control his urges?

Zero shook his head. He didn't want Kaname to condemn himself for being what he was. Approaching the pureblood with uncertainty roiling in his stomach, he rested a hand on the pureblood's shoulder. "It's okay." He should be screaming at the pureblood. He should be calling him a disgusting parasite, but he wasn't, because he didn't think he could stomach such words anymore.

How could Zero forgive him so freely? He'd wanted to devour Zero after smelling his blood. "Zero I--"

Zero interrupted the repentant pureblood. "It was an accident. So don't worry about it."

Kaname touched the hand on his shoulder, closing his eyes in relief. So, Zero didn't think him a disgusting beast after all. He gave a faint smile.

Zero didn't return the smile, but he did telegraph his feelings through his softening amethyst eyes. His eyes made their way to Kaname's sculpted lips and he found himself wanting to kiss the pureblood again. Not bothering to fight the small blush tainting his cheeks, he withdrew his hand and stepped away. "I-I'm going to go now." He backpedaled a few strides and picked up the violin case. "Are you coming?"

Kaname shook his head, lifted the other case, and handed it to Zero. Yes, he wanted to follow Zero, but right now he needed to give the other space. "I'm going to stay here for a little while and enjoy this beautiful night."

Zero nodded, glancing away quickly when those russet orbs captured his. He nodded a farewell and strode away, making it to the cedar trees before he turned. "Kaname."

Kaname turned. "Yes?" Zero was beautiful, ethereally so, and it was a great effort for the pureblood to control the hitching sigh seeking to escape his chest.

"Sweet dreams." Zero knew Kaname was plagued by nightmares, which was why he always wished him sweet dreams at night (day?). He knew it was silly, but he hoped his silent wishes somehow were granted by some kindhearted deity.

Kaname's countenance gentled and he gave a tiny genuine smile. "May the same go for you," he said softly. Perhaps Zero would dream of him, because he knew for sure that he would dream of the prefect and their first kiss.

Zero turned away to hide the blush on his cheeks and strode away.

Kaname watched until Zero disappeared behind the cedar trees and turned to survey the well-kept garden. How could you be so stupid? How could you ruin such a wonderful moment by losing control of your urges? You were one step away from sinking your fangs into his neck. No, he was not going to wallow in his mistakes now. Right now, he was going to count the considerable victory he'd gained tonight.

Tonight, he and Zero had become substantially closer. No, they were not yet lovers, but Kaname knew that Zero felt something. The kiss they'd shared had only been one, but he knew Zero had affection for him. He knew-from careful observation- that Zero wouldn't even kiss someone on the cheek let alone on the mouth unless romantic feelings were involved. Nothing could sour his mood, because although he knew that Zero did not love him, the prefect had affection for him. And it was only a matter of time before that affection would turn to love. Kaname smiled to himself, allowing his emotions to float him away to that special place where not even the demons of his past could reach him. Their wonderful kiss wouldn't have happened if Zero hadn't been hanging out with Masaharu because they would have never met up at Mainly Strings and he would never had the chance to escort his dearest prefect back to Cross Academy. So, perhaps he should thank the other man that brought them together.

Zero strode across the moonlit courtyard of Cross Academy, a case in each hand. His mind whirled nonstop. His mind kept going to the kiss he'd just shared with Kaname. It had been his first kiss. And it had to be with that infuriating pureblood, he mused silently. He thought kissing Kaname would feel… weird and strange. But it had felt sooo damn… good and so natural. He snorted in slight frustration because he wanted to kiss the pureblood again. He licked his lips, still able to taste the flavor of the kiss. Kaname's lips had been so soft and Zero hated to admit it but his mind had been near jelly before the pureblood had bitten him.

His thoughts shifted to those scarlet eyes staring back at him and the utterly vampire expression on that gorgeous face. Why had he tried to comfort the pureblood? Why hadn't he drawn Bloody Rose on Kaname? Was it because he felt safe? Or was it because he trusted the pureblood? He didn't care to think about it right now. At present, all he wanted to do was let the joyful feelings tittering through his system take over.

He strode into the boys' dormitory and to his room, happy he didn't meet anyone on his way to his room. He closed the room door, set the cases next to his desk, and flopped down on his bed. He stared at the ceiling absently. Kaname. The feelings the pureblood had conveyed in their single kiss were both tender and contained a depth to them that he was yet afraid to dissect. Was the pureblood that good of an actor?

His brow knitted and he sighed. No, he wouldn't go down that road, not when he felt so content. A shiver ran down his spine when he thought of the kiss and the pleasure he'd felt during that simple contact. He reached up and gingerly touched his lips, thinking how utterly lucky he was. He would have never got to spend such a lovely evening with the pureblood if it hadn't been for the need to make him happy. He would not have kissed Kaname if it hadn't been for his senses being utterly open to the older vampire at the bunraku (due to pheromones) and the surge of jealousy he'd gotten when he met Naoki. He ran a hand through his hair and gave a sigh. He was becoming hopeless.

Squeeee! I finally finished this chapter. *Wipes sweat from brow* I'm sorry it took me so long to finish this *hides*. I started school and well my professors have really been laying the assignments on something fierce. Anyway, so sorry it's so long, but um the plot bunnies(?) kept popping up in my head and Muse ran out of carrots to keep them from overrunning her.

Oh, yeah. The idea of pheromones comes from the fabulously TALENTED author Blackened Wing; although I'm not sure they would actually affect Zero to this degree unless they were sex pheromones (I did read that they affect the behavior of animals of the same species). Oh and I apologize for any typo and grammatical errors in advance. Anyway is this is suckeroo, my bad. But if you enjoy it, please R&R.

Oh and if you haven't read any of Blackened Wings stories then I suggest you do so because her fics are the shiznit!

Later Taters