Belated Happy Christmas to all my dear readers!

This is my gift to you, thanks a million for cherishing the cuteness of this fanfic!The songs here are by Barbie… I wish I could come up with my original Wolfram song, but there's no more time for me to construct something and I really like Barbie's songs. Enjoy!

Another song sang in this chapter: Can I have this dance by Troy and Gabriella… One of my favorite Yuuram theme song.

Loving this,

Nicolas Ambroise

Closer

A Christmas Special

Scene 1:

"All my life I've always wanted
To have one day just for me
Nothing to do and for once nowhere I need to be
With no lessons, lords, or lunches
Or to-do list in the way
No one to say when to eat or read or leave or stay
That would be the day!"

Heads turn and whispers broke from every direction as the entrancing voice dominated the entire west wing of the Blood Pledge Castle. The songbird had come out from the Majestic Chamber, finally breaking free from his long months of self-imposed confinement. Wolfram von Bielefeld fully caught the attention of the people along the hallway as many more people rushed to see the source of the beautiful melody.

Lady Celi burst into tears as she marveled her son who was finally revealing his hidden talent for the very first time. Those who saw who it was registered look of surprises one moment which transitioned into warm smiles the next second. They watched gleefully as this yellow-hued flower bloomed before them. It was dancing and singing as if it was cheated with some extraordinary spell.

"Wolfram!" Greta cried cheerfully as she ran towards her blonde father as the audience gave way for her. As soon as she reached him, Wolfram let her turn around with his left hand. He danced with her as he continued to sing, not minding the twinkling gazes of the listeners.

"Soon I will forever be…

Free!

I close my eyes and feel myself fly a thousand miles away

I could take flight but would it be right

My conscience tells me stay

I'll remain forever royal

My promises— I won't forget

Duty means doing the things your heart may well regret

But I'll never stop believing

No one can ever stop my schemes

There's more to living than swords, and fires and kings

In my dreams

I'll be free!"

Gwendal, unnoticeable behind the backs of the other spectators, smiled and closed his eyes as he listened to the wonderful voice of his youngest brother. Meanwhile from the other side of the hallway, Conrad was smiling as well and when he had a glimpse of his older brother amidst the opposite crowd, his smile grew broader.

Unfortunately, Yuri wasn't here to witness this.

"Hahaha… Wolfram, you're acting so strange, what's gotten into you?" Greta chuckled merrily as her father continued to dance her. Wolfram merely gave her his glowing smile as response.

And so the phenomenon lasted for a few more minutes. Wolfram danced with almost everyone surrounding him, including his mother, Gisela, some of his subjects (who were all apparently in love with him hence their eyes gleamed adoringly, taking in the precious moment that might never happen again), and also some of the maids.

To everyone's greatest surprise, Wolfram found his eldest brother's hand from the audience and with full strength, he yanked him onto the limelight and with his other free hand, he gestured for Conrad to come and join them. Conrad tried to refuse but this was the opening he had been wishing for, for him to make really make up with his younger brother. And so, the other soldier walked towards his two brothers. Gwendal was stunned and discolored at first but when Wolfram began to lead him to a dance, he slowly found it amusing and next second, he was the one leading the dance. While the two were dancing, Conrad watched and laughed, and then Gwendal offered him to lead Wolfram next.

The fun was up in the air.

Wolfram had broken free from his shell, he was not ashamed to sing aloud and do an intimate dance with his brothers and he was even heartening the crowd to share the experience with him.

What an unexpected way of answering the wishes and even the faintest sighs of those who surrounded and loved this flower of eternal sunshine.

And all this happened even without the presence of the person who has always been the prominent source of joy of this place.

And Wolfram could be happy…

Scene 2:

"Can I have this dance?" A familiar voice echoed from the end of the hallway to Wolfram's right. All attention was drawn towards the newcomer.

Gwendal's blissful moment crashed in a second and his obnoxious mood returned the moment his eyes met the one who just spoke from a distance.

"It's Your Majesty! He has returned!" One of the maids shouted with joy. Something about the way they looked from Yuri to Wolfram told that they could run the moment.

"Yu… Yuri…" Wolfram said softly.

This young king did not return to him last night since he went out for a bath. Wolfram's reading speed was quite affected, worried of what happened to the double black. He decided to visit the bathroom to check on Yuri but when he saw that Yuri's bath things were left on the edge of the pool along with his towel, he realized that the other young man traveled back to his home once again.

Wolfram just cursed himself for feeling a bit sad again at that. It was normal for Yuri to just disappear whenever he wants to, why can't he just get used to it?

But deep inside, he knew why, for his greatest fear wasn't actually Yuri's unreturned feelings, it was Yuri not returning to him anymore… even as a friend.

The king approached Wolfram, not taking his eyes off the blonde and not giving Gwendal a chance to be recognized with his sour face.

"You came back so soon? What—" Wolfram asked away but Yuri interrupted him before he could finish.

"I just drop by to get some stuff, and thanks to mother she packed them as I told her to so it won't get wet when I bring those stuff here."

"What stuff?" Gwendal asked, trying to squeeze in so he could fry up Yuri again.

"Let's just talk about it later, right now, I'm asking you guys if I can have this dance with Wolfram?"

Conrad gave his godson a knowing smile and then offered Wolfram's hand, which he was holding, to Yuri.

"Of course," Conrad said without further ado. Wolfram looked at his brother, perplexed. Conrad merely gave him a curt nod with a smile telling him everything's going to be alright.

"Thanks, Conrad," Yuri then turned finally to Gwendal. "May I?"

Gwendal did not speak but merely stepped back to give the floor to Yuri. Cheers and applause and sounds of excitement followed suit, as Yuri took Wolfram's hand and placed his other arm around the tiny frame of the blonde.

"Shall we?" Yuri asked in a deep voice. "Sing for me, will you?"

Wolfram was still confounded after all, everything was occurring fast around him. He was slowly processing Yuri's command and what they were about to do. After a long minute, the blonde swallowed nervously and closed his eyes to prepare himself.

He didn't expect that Yuri would return at once. The song he was actually singing a while ago pertain to him relishing being free and alone.

Wolfram had no choice, before him the eyes of Yuri were staring through the windows of his soul. He thought of a song that will be appropriate for their dance, and gladly the song that he loved so much popped into his memory in an instant. And so, Wolfram started to sing once more as Yuri began to lead the dance.

"Take my hand, take a breath

Pull me close and take one step

Keep your eyes locked on mine,

And let the music be your guide…"

The audience felt like they were watching a love story unfolding before them. They watched in awe and glee, feeling giddy seeing the two finally giving them a hint of where their relationship was going.

What a lovely voice, Yuri thought as he stole glances at his partner. Wolfram's lips were graceful in singing as his body was in dancing. Yuri never imagined that the voice that was always nagging him (that sometimes it was sore and annoying to the ears) could sing like this. Wolfram's voice was softer in singing, it was as if Yuri was actually hearing a beautiful lady with an angelic voice. Yuri's eyes traveled on Wolfram's face. His beauty was indeed breathtaking, if Yuri hadn't known him, he would have mistaken him for a woman or most likely, an angel.

When green eyes began to stare up at his face again, Yuri was shocked and embarrassed to find out he was studying the blonde and an obvious blush carelessly appeared on his cheeks. Wolfram smiled sincerely at the sight, making Yuri looked feverish. Wolfram never darted his eyes off the king's face again, although his focus stayed with what he was doing.

Then, Yuri began to sing with Wolfram upon recognizing the song (It was the song Wolfram always listened to the last time he visited Earth).

"Take my hand, I'll take the lead

And every turn will be safe with me

Don't be afraid, afraid to fall

You know I'll catch you through it all"

This earned them another long "Awwww!" of affection from the crowd. Yuri and Wolfram couldn't help but blush every now and then. Yuri was not his bashful fictitious self any more, he was already accepting, facing and realizing. And now, all he wanted was to enjoy the moment and he won't let go no matter what. He had taken the courage to dance with his blonde friend, and he will hold on to this courage until their dance ended.

This was no longer their old dance of uncertainty and pretense… it was a dance of understanding and promise.

Yuri: "Won't you promise me"

Wolfram: "Now won't you promise me, that you'll never forget"

Yuri: "We'll keep dancing—"

Wolfram: "—to keep dancing—"

Yuri: "—wherever we go next—"

And soon they were singing together…

"Oh no mountains too high enough, oceans too wide

'Cause together or not, our dance won't stop

Let it rain, let it pour

What we have is worth fighting for

You know I believe, that we were meant to be"

"It's like catching lightning the chances of finding someone like you

It's one in a million, the chances of feeling the way we do

And with every step together, we just keep on getting better

So can I have this dance?

Can I have this dance?"

"Can I have this dance?

Can I have this dance?"

Scene 3:

"So you finished it already?" Yuri asked Wolfram during dinner.

"Yup," Wolfram answered as he devoured the savory roast beef on his plate.

Yuri watched him contentedly, seeing that the blonde was keeping his promise to make up for his abnormal eating habits.

"Is that why you were singing out of the blue?"

Wolfram nodded, "Why, do you have a problem with that?"

Yuri shook his head regally as if he just denied a political suggestion. Wolfram noticed how Yuri had been registering reactions lately, often times they were no longer boyish and sheepish, but manly and kingly.

"I felt like I've accomplished something after finishing it," Wolfram said jovially, while staring into empty space as if he was seeing the world of Harry Potter before him. Yuri had to suppress his amusement and looked away from the daydreaming blonde.

"Yuri," Greta called after swallowing the veggies in her mouth. "What was that big black plastic bag you were carrying with you?"

Yuri's eyes broadened upon remembering it. Alas! He completely forgot about it!

"Oh geez… I completely forgot about that! Thanks for reminding me Greta!" Yuri exclaimed and stood up from his chair. Wolfram pulled down his wrist to stop him.

"What the—"

"And where do you think you're going?" Came the 'dark side' voice of the blonde.

"I have to keep that package safe! I left it just in front of the bathroom door!"

"You're not going anywhere until you're finished."

"But I'll come back! I swear!"

"No need to worry Yuri," Conrad interrupted the two who were about to start another pointless argument. "I already ordered the guards to have it placed in your bedroom."

"Oh really? That's great! Okay… Thanks Conrad!" Yuri sat back and quickly emptied the food on his plate. Wolfram watched him with a flabbergasted look.

"What's the hurry?"

"Why don't you just stop scrutinizing me, okay?"

Wolfram's face turned crimson red at Yuri's retort.

"You…"

Yuri drank his juice and stood up.

"Please excuse me, I'll go ahead."

Yuri ignored the golden kettle that was boiling beside him and he jogged towards the dining room door. Before he completely left the room, he announced:

"Meet me at my office when you're all done, alright? See yah!"

"Okay Yuri!" Greta said cheerfully.

"Yes Your Majesty!" Lady Celi and Günter responded delightfully.

Conrad merely gave him a pleased nod while Gwendal remained immobile.

Wolfram on the other hand, resembled a volcano.

Scene 4:

With the help of the guards, Yuri was able to bring the big plastic bag to his office.

A few minutes passed when a knock came from the other side of the door.

"Come in."

"What is it, Yuri?" Greta was running towards him, and then came Lady Celi, Conrad, Günter, Gwendal, and Wolfram.

"Well, it's Christmas time on Earth," Yuri began. He stood up, turned around and leaned over his opened plastic bag. "And I decided to give each and every one of you presents from Earth."

"Oh yes, I see," Conrad spoke, being the only one who is familiar with Earth's cultures.

"Presents! I love presents!" Greta exclaimed. "What's Christmas, Yuri? Who's Christmas? Is it someone's birthday?"

"No, my dear Greta," Yuri answered in a fatherly tone, standing straight again. "To put it simple, Christmas is a special time on Earth when the warm spirit is present. It's a time of loving, forgiving, giving and sharing happiness. It's really a fun and warm happening!"

"And I would like to extend this joyous occasion here… if you guys don't mind," Yuri added.

"Oh how truly amazing this idea of yours, Your Majesty!" Günter exclaimed with glistening eyes. "The words of a true inspirational king!"

"It's not really," Yuri scratched the back of his head, looking sheepishly. Wolfram made a galling sound at the gesture. Too much for acting regally, the wimp still couldn't help it.

"So what do you have for me, Yuri? I'm so excited!" Greta was jumping joyfully.

"Greta stop that," Wolfram reprimanded.

Yuri plunged himself again inside the big plastic bag and from it, he took a large box wrapped in pink paper and a golden ribbon. He took it and handed it to Greta.

"Here you go, my daughter."

"Wahoo! Thanks Yuri!" Greta unwrapped the present hastily, revealing a set of Barbie toys. Greta studied it at first before understanding its purpose. "Oh it's a lovely family! The mother's so little and slim and pretty! Oohhhh she's so pretty! Look Wolfram, she looked almost like you!"

"What?" Wolfram was caught off guard at Greta's comment.

"Eh?" Yuri shrieked.

"Look!" Greta removed Barbie from the box and handed it to Wolfram. Wolfram who didn't expect Greta's motions almost dropped the thin doll. Astoundingly, Greta was true. The doll's hair length was the same as his, dropping two inches from the shoulders, blond and a bit curly. And it was wearing a pink frilly gown like the one he used to wear.

"She does look like you," Lady Celi commented from behind, looking at the doll closely.

Wolfram stared from the doll on his hand to the other two dolls Greta had just removed from the other two boxes side by side with the first one.

"Incredible!" Greta said in utter astonishment.

"What is it?" It was Yuri, who just blushed after Greta's comment, and was a little quite exasperated that Greta was witty enough to see such unexpected resemblances. Oh no, don't tell me… wait… Greta…

But it was too late, his daughter run back to Wolfram and showed the other two dolls to the Wolfram. The blonde stared at them in shock but the next moment his sharpened eyes became tender and a beautiful smile appeared on his lips, striking the chief organ in Yuri to beat faster.

Gwendal and the others also peered down at the dolls and they were all bewildered.

"Amazing!" Günter yelped.

"See, this is us!" Greta said happily. "This boy doll looked like Yuri and this little brown-haired girl is me! Yuri wanted me to have it to remind me that we're family!"

Yuri was speechless even though he wanted to say that everything was just a coincidence. He cleared his throat to speak up but then, Greta turned back to him and left him no chance.

"Right, Yuri?" She asked with sparkling eyes.

Yuri looked at Wolfram; the expression on the blonde's face was enough to make him prudent not to say stupid things and to just concur. He suddenly desired to take Wolfram into his arms, but he knew better now was not the time.

Yuri's thoughts stirred back to the dolls. What was he thinking buying this family set that resembled so much the three of them? He remembered how long it took him to get to decide to buy it. He didn't knew during that time why this was the family set that he chose, maybe deep inside him intuition caught the similarity.

"Well, yeh," Yuri gave up his pride but he had no time to regret it for the repayment for doing so was fast and priceless. All of a sudden, Wolfram ran towards him and gave him a tight embrace which surprised everyone in the room. Yuri planted his nose on Wolfram's golden crown and took in the fresh scent of sunflower. This shocked the others further, seeing how fast Yuri responded to the action. Wolfram was so warm, which made Yuri realize how cold it was. It was winter here in Shin Makoku as well. But as quickly as it happened, Wolfram separated himself from Yuri at once. He looked up at the double black with loving eyes. They both blushed at the eye contact. The two suddenly had a mutual longing to kiss each other, but with the others present, Wolfram just made the first move to dismiss the feeling.

"You really are full of surprises, Yuri." Wolfram said sexily, letting go and returning back to standing beside his mother.

"This is so sweet of my future son-in-law!" Lady Celi cried with pleasure.

"Nyar!" Yuri yelped.

"Hahaure!" Wolfram told off.

Lady Celi clasped her hands before her chest and glanced from Yuri to Wolfram to Greta with eyes gleaming like stars. "One true happy family!"

Yuri put on a chuckle in response. He felt the glower of Gwendal again, sending goose bumps onto his entire body. It was time to change the subject.

I guess I should surprise him next before the rest, it might lighten his mood. You just wait grumpy old man… my gift would melt that stony heart of yours.

Yuri took a bulky Patrick (Spongebob's buddy) stuff toy from the plastic bag and handed it over to Gwendal. Gwendal was flabbergasted and a prodding vein appeared on his head as he pondered the thing on his hands.

"That's my gift for you, Gwendal," Yuri said, smiling ear to ear. "His name is Patrick, the Star. He's a starfish; Patrick's a funny fellow. I hope you will take good care of him… I know you would."

Yuri studied Gwendals' reaction and laughed inwardly. He was definitely enjoying this. Conrad and the rest were beaming as well; they knew very well what their Chief of State's weakness was aside from the pink-haired woman.

Gwendal inhaled deeply, composing himself before looking at Yuri. He didn't glare at him again but his face didn't improve any better.

"Thank you."

Just as Yuri had expected from Gwendal… Anyhow, Yuri already got what he bet on himself to see- the reaction was the token.

"You're welcome," Yuri said, quickly drawing back to the plastic bag to hide his mirth and dug in for more presents.

Yuri gave Conrad a hiking bag pack, Lady Celi— a set of make-up (bought by Miko-san), and Günter— Earth history books. Soon after, Yuri also called for Gisela, Yozak, Annisina, Dorcas, Doria, Sangria, Lazania and Effee and he gave his presents to them.

That earned him many words of thanks, heartwarming smiles and tears of joy. No one except Lady Celi had the nerve to thank him by embrace, being aware that the blonde was just around the corner.

Wolfram, whose bliss lingered for a few minutes, soon realized what was missing.

What about me? And his impatience and resentment got the better of him again.

Yuri was talking to the Yozak when Wolfram caught his attention. The blonde was becoming irritated again and Yuri knew why. He still got no present. Thankfully, Greta came to talk to Wolfram again about the dolls and she even handed her the one that looked like him, as if she was asking Wolfram to play with her. Greta was always an effective, unintentional diversion.

Wolfram's building temper dropped again and soon, Yuri spotted him smiling sincerely again and talking like a real playmate to Greta. What an impossible person. Nothing's ever certain on him.

Yuri didn't take advantage of Greta for too long, he was also excited of what he was about to do next. He ended his conversation and immediately approached Wolfram and Greta.

Yozak's eyes followed Yuri's course and the orange-haired soldier could not help but grin teeth to teeth.

"They're quite getting along better than we anticipated," Yozak said to Conrad, who approached him from behind.

"Yes, Yuri's becoming more and more thoughtful," Conrad added.

"And romantic?"

Conrad laughed at that, it was true and he was very happy for his brother.

"While he was talking to me, I noticed him suddenly distracted by your brother and he was obviously worried, from then on he started glancing occasionally to Wolfram's direction," Yozak chuckled.

Silence fell as the two military men observed the betrothed from a distance.

It was a picture of a perfect family.

"Having fun?" Yuri asked the two most important people to him in the room.

"Yes!" Greta answered quickly. "Thanks again Yuri! I really love it!"

Greta hugged the king again. Wolfram was looking impassive, even with his green eyes staring directly at Yuri, he appeared lost in thought.

"You'll have to take good care of them, promise?"

"Promise!" Another embrace.

"Good. Why don't you give them a tour of the castle?" Yuri said in a suggestive way.

"That's a great idea!"

Yuri looked back at Effee and called her. Effee and the other maids quickly moved toward them.

"What can I do for you, Your Majesty?" Effee asked cheerfully.

"Um, I would just like you to look after Greta for a while."

Wolfram and Greta looked at Yuri in unison, both confused.

"You're not coming with her?" Wolfram asked.

"Oh no, no," Yuri gestured his hands in denial. "I still have something to do."

Yuri looked at Wolfram in a way that told the blonde it was him Yuri was referring at. Wolfram whispered a cute "Oh!" in surprise.

Yuri turned to Greta, "We'll play with you next time, okay? Anyway you have us with you," Yuri tapped the heads of the Yuri and Wolfram dolls. This made the blonde flush again and he swiftly looked away, though Yuri already caught his reaction.

"Of course!" Greta looked pleased when she realized what Yuri meant. She kissed him and Wolfram on the cheek and then sprinted off to the hall, with the maids running after her.

Wolfram's eyes were still fixed on the doorway and Yuri had to wave a hand to get his attention.

"Hey Wolf," Yuri called softly. He glanced around the small office, seeing it was still too crowded. Wolfram looked at him one moment and threw his nose up in the air, feigning irritation.

"Don't get the wrong idea that I forgot you," Yuri began before anything else. "You have yet to receive my gift to you."

Wolfram remained immobile except for his eyes, which peered at Yuri.

"It's alright," Wolfram said evenly. "You don't have to feel guilty. Just admit that you forgot me."

"You really think so?"

Yuri turned to look at the others and realized that they were already watching them. They all pretended to be talking to each other when Yuri caught them. The double black felt embarrassed; suddenly his hand made its way onto the back of his head and did his habit of scratching it stupidly.

"Wimp," Wolfram cursed under his breath.

"Um… guys... uh… well… enjoy your presents," Yuri began bit by bit. Then, he grabbed the blonde's hand and tugged him out of the room.

Never mind what they would think, I have to do this.

"Yuri!" Wolfram squeaked. "If you're gonna hand over your gift, then just give it to me. You're hurting my hand."

Yuri let go of him immediately.

"Sorry!" Yuri said apologetically, this time, he took Wolfram's hand gently and examined it.

"Don't worry about it," Wolfram sighed. "It wasn't deformed, though that was close."

Silence reigned and soon it became uncomfortable.

"What are you gonna give me?"

"Well, it wasn't something I can bring here and so… I kind of left it back on Earth."

"You what?" Wolfram made a 'hmmp' after that.

"I left it there so you're gonna have to come with me to see it," Yuri said evenly.

"But—"

"No questions just come with me."

Instead of taking wolfram by the hand, Yuri's arms slipped around Wolfram's waist, clumsily hoisting the blonde over one of his shoulders. It was a fast move. Wolfram shrieked in surprise, thumping one of his hands against his back.

"What the hell are you doing? Put me down!" Wolfram roared scandalously.

"Wait, I'm trying something…" Yuri responded, focusing on balancing himself.

"What are trying out on me again? Put me down or someone might see us! This is embarrassing!" Wolfram wanted to claw badly Yuri's back but just continued his thumping.

"Don't shout or someone would probably see us!"

"Then just put me down!" Wolfram hissed. Yuri began walking towards the hallway.

When they turned another corner, Wolfram quickly spotted guards stationed on some doors.

"There are guards here! Put me down now," Wolfram hooted impatiently. Though this action of Yuri appeared charming, Wolfram could not find himself being totally happy about it. He couldn't afford to risk his dignity.

"I will hate you forever, Yuri Shibuya, if you don't put me down this instant," Wolfram's voice grew dark.

"Fine!" Yuri snapped. Thankfully, their footsteps and sounds were still out of earshot from the guards and so no one noticed them.

"Come on," Yuri gestured for Wolfram to follow him.

The guards greeted them as they passed and finally, they made it to the gardens where a fountain stood at the center.

To avoid further words from Wolfram, Yuri let Wolfram walked ahead of him and when they were so close to the fountain, he grabbed the blonde by the waist and together, they dived on the fountain.

"Arggggggrurgrugrugrurg…"

Those were the last sound of Wolfram von Bielefeld before the waters swallowed them.

Scene 5:

"Achoo!"

"Oh my dear Wolfie, look what my son did to you," Miko-san handed him a mug of hot chocolate. "Here, drink this, it'll make you feel warm."

"Thanks Miko-san," Wolfram said in a gruff voice. He was wrapped in blanket, feeling slightly nauseous. Traveling through waters in such a manner, which was more like being drowned since he was forced into it without him being ready for it, was as worse as traveling on ship. Now, he was having colds. All thanks to the double black who was sitting right next to him, also covered in blanket.

"Call me Mama, remember what I told you last time," Miko-san reminded him cheerfully.

"But—" Wolfram glanced at Yuri to see his reaction, but the other young man was simply busy adjusting his blanket.

"No buts. Ma-ma," Miko-san spelled out.

"Okay, Mama. Thanks. A... A… ACHOO!"

"Too bad we had run out medicine, but no need to worry, I've already sent Shori to the drug store."

"Drug?"

"It's medicine," Yuri answered for him.

After a few moments of silence where only the sounds from the television were to be heard, Wolfram suddenly remembered Yuri still owes him a row and his gift. His soft features became taut as he turned his face to Yuri.

"I won't let you do this to me again," Wolfram started. "Don't feel so confident because you're mother is caring for me."

Yuri knew better than to rejoin him.

"Where's your gift? Now, I want to see it."

"Obviously, I can't give it to you now," Yuri said, his eyes still on the television.

Wolfram just let out his usual 'hmmp' in response. He was running out of words to throw at Yuri.

It was a moment of irritation, the silence hanged upon them like torture. They took turns in peering at each other from the corner of eyes. When Wolfram caught Yuri shivering and clutching his blankets tightly, he intuitively abandoned his, got himself in Yuri's blanket and embraced the other man.

"Wolf!" gasped the astonished double black. Yuri felt Wolfram's warmth penetrated his clothing.

"Just shut up and hold me closer, I'm trying to warm you," Wolfram whispered sharply.

"Thanks, Wolf," Yuri said sincerely as he wrapped up his blanket over Wolfram and cuddled the blonde inside it. Wolfram was the best thing he had ever embraced in his whole life. His warmth reminded Yuri of his unconditional love.

Little did they know, a happy mother had left her chores in the kitchen and was watching them intently while taking pictures of them without flash so it would come unobtrusive.

Scene 6:

"Where are you, Your Majesty?" Günter cried buckets of tears.

"They left for Earth, Lord von Christ," the soldier who witnessed the two dived into the fountain said.

"What are they going to do there! I wished I could go with him too!" Günter cried even more.

"That's so sweet of my future son-in-law!" Lady Celi said, lost in her reverie. "A honeymoon for a gift!"

"Hahaure!" Gwendal reproached her, but he knew it was useless. "Remember, they're not even married yet."

"Oh I think Your Majesty doesn't mind at all, I can see it in his moves towards my Wolfie!"

This made Gwendal detest Yuri even more; he was not that insensitive person not to detect Yuri's growing audacity over his brother. Now, the tables had been turned and his younger brother was often the one playing the defensive role. And frankly, Gwendal didn't like it any better.

Gwendal knew he had no reason to feel this irate towards their Maoh, most likely it was just the normal feeling an older brother feels when someone is trying to court his younger sibling. Yes, he was simply being protective of Wolfram. For deep inside, Gwendal cares for Wolfram so much and all he wants was what's best for him. If someone were to court him, that person should better do it right. And from his point of view, Yuri was missing even the basic steps and jumping into his price already. The slap of the cheek was the best example Gwendal would never forget.

Scene 7:

Christmas time

Time to share our love

Come and join

The tidings to the world

Christmas time

The best time of the year

Yes, it's Christmas time

You and me together

A sleigh ride in the park

Loving is straight from the heart

Snowflakes falling gently

A smell of chestnuts in the air

And Christmas lights they gleam across the sky

Do you remember?

Everything felt so right…

When I held you close to me?

Do you remember?

Those cold Christmas nights…

Where we saw the world in harmony…

Unfortunately for Yuri and Wolfram, the guest room of the Shibuya house was not tidied up yet and was jam-packed with a lot of unused stuff of the family. And so, Yuri had no choice but to offer his bed for his friend and just sleep on the mattress on the floor.

It was already night time when they arrived on Earth and they came from the portable plastic pool that was set up and left freezing outside the garden. The water on the pool was half-frozen when they resurfaced from it. If it hadn't been for Wolfram's loud screech, Miko-san would not have gone and checked the pool because she was already busy watching TV. And Yuri kicked himself for his stupidity not to advise his mother that he'll be coming back in just a matter of minutes.

"Are you sure you're okay down there?" Wolfram rolled over to the edge of the bed and looked down at Yuri. With his arms behind his head, Yuri looked at Wolfram.

"Yup," Yuri replied. "I'm fine here."

"Okay." Wolfram said like a child. Yuri suddenly wanted to pinch his cheeks. Wolfram was undeniably cute. Yuri had to wonder again and for the umpteenth time how a European beautiful lad like Wolfram fell for someone like him— an ordinary-looking Japanese boy.

"Tomorrow, we'll go out and I'll show you my gift."

"What is it?"

"You'll see," Yuri said mischievously. "You've finished Harry Potter, right?"

"Well, yeah and—" Wolfram was in the middle of his words when an idea struck him.

Could it be his gift was his promise? His promise that he'll show me the real Harry Potter? Wolfram's utter shock had Yuri lifting his position a bit with his elbows firmly placed against the mattress.

Wolfram's eyes widened and a bright smile formed on his lips. Yuri had a feeling his secret gift had been decoded already. He wished he shouldn't have asked him that question, it gave his secret away.

"Yuri? Am I thinking what you're thinking? Are you going to show me Harry Potter?"

There's no point in denying it. So Yuri just smiled back at his friend. Silence means 'Yes'.

"Really! Wow Yuri!" Wolfram sat up and bounced on the bed in glee like a child. Yuri looked up at him, feeling both contented and a bit worried for the bed might break. But what he didn't anticipate came next, Wolfram laid down one second on the bed again and then rolled over and thus landing onto Yuri. Yuri blinked and Wolfram was on top of him, looking straight at him in the eyes. Both their hearts began to beat faster again as their bodies were once again stuck in an awkward position.

But as Wolfram didn't move, Yuri kept him in place, his hands firmly grasping the slender waist. They stared at each other for a long moment as Wolfram's innocent laughter faded and transitioned into the intense moment.

Wolfram was warm against him and his scent was enough to arouse the other lad. Yuri felt himself sweating profusely, the fire Mazoku on top of him was getting heavier with every second tick.

Push him away, Yuri. Push him away.

But why would he push away something so rewarding, something so precious?

Before Yuri could clear his mind and decide on what to do, Wolfram already moved away to edge of his mattress.

"I'm so excited, Yuri!" He exclaimed, trying to dismiss the intimation that just occurred. "I want to see Harry Potter! I wonder also if I have imagined correctly the features and the other stuff in the book."

Wolfram was lost in his own thoughts, when Yuri sat up and pinched him on he cheek. Wolfram cried in surprise and pain.

"Hey!"

"You're cute, Wolfram," black onyx eyes stared deeply into sparkling emerald ones. Wolfram blushed at the comment and bit his lip. Then, he shook his head, as if that could wipe out the shade spreading across his face.

Yuri chuckled at that and before Wolfram's hand comes to rub his left cheek, Yuri pinched the other side.

"Hey!"

Instead of rubbing his squeezed cheeks, Wolfram's hands aimed for Yuri's face and began pinching him too. The two started laughing, clutching each other's faces.

"This is fun."

"Ye, I'd rather do this—"

"Than what?" Yuri asked rapidly.

Wolfram's eyes grew wide and he blushed again and Yuri knew he mirrored it, because he felt his own face grew hot. Wolfram's hand slipped away from Yuri's face and rested on his lap. Yuri did the same but continued to ogle the blonde.

Wolfram sighed deeply before answering, "Than being too intimate… You know what I'm referring to, Yuri… Lately, things were… were happening so fast… between us… I mean you… you're not even telling me if you feel… feel the same way about me… but then… we're already jumping into stuff… you know…" He looked at Yuri exhaustingly, "You know what I mean Yuri… Please don't make it too hard for me."

Yuri's eyed enlarged and then contracted gently, understanding completely Wolfram's point. He was aware of it; of how slow, stupid and cruel he was.

"I'm sorry," Yuri said sadly. "And I understand… Wolfram… I do… I really am sorry."

"And I'm sorry too," Wolfram said affectionately. "It's my fault why you have to suffer through this… I mean ever since I've known you… You were just a naïve boy not expecting to be engaged in the first place and by a boy, when you preferred girls in the first place. Then, I kept on following you like a puppy, nagging you like a widow, never giving you a single chance to change things for your own benefit. I know you want to love a girl, so you would have a wife and have children…" Wolfram's eyes were starting to moisten. Yuri, on the other hand, was listening intently, not taking his eyes off his friend. "But then… because you're… you're a wimp… who's afraid of me and who's afraid to abandon me… to hurt me because we've become good friends… you never sought what you wanted for yourself… and settled on what you have…"

"There's this saying," Yuri cut short. "We tend to forget that happiness doesn't come from getting something we don't have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have…"

"I know that…" Wolfram nodded slightly, considering the axiom. "But that's not always right, and it doesn't tell you to just resolve! I mean… You have a choice, Yuri…"

"Feels like I'm talking to an alien," Yuri thought aloud all of a sudden, Wolfram arched his eyebrows at that.

"An alien?" The blonde asked.

"I mean it feels like you're not the same Wolfram anymore," Yuri explained, grinning at his companion. "But that doesn't mean I don't like the way you are now… You're no longer the selfish Wolfram, you're the selfless Wolfram who's now even telling me to set off and find true love…"

"I didn't say that," Wolfram muttered.

"You just did, Wolf." Yuri shook his head teasingly and fingered a no-no at Wolfram.

Wolfram threw his nose up in the air at that, and Yuri chortled again.

"But you didn't change completely, you've remained the snobbish, neat-freak, decent, righteous and thorough person I've met in the first place," Yuri continued as he leaned his back on the bed, placing his arms on the back of his head again. "And that's I've come to like about you. And to add to that… recently… I've learned something important about you…"

Yuri let the last phrase hanged, as if he was tell bidding Wolfram to guess it.

"What, now?" Wolfram asked without delay.

"That you are quite modest than I thought you were."

Wolfram couldn't help but glance back at him, with his face continued to flush in betrayal. Is this Yuri trying to define me? And he's getting it right, has he been observing me that much?

"Though I have to admit the spoiled brat in you comes back occasionally… and well… quite reasonably… But that doesn't matter to me… Because I know… you have a good heart, Wolfram," Yuri's tender eyes looked through those stunned emerald eyes. "You're simply beautiful, inside and out."

Now Wolfram's breath was completely taken away. He didn't know how to answer to that… Even in thoughts, Wolfram became utterly unresponsive. Time seemed to stop. The fire Mazoku was melting… melted by the water-bearer…

How could Yuri say such things transparently and with no difficulty? He's changed a lot as well. He used to be so shy, reserved and clueless. But now… He was really acting maturely… no oops… no second thoughts… no pretenses… no covering-up… He was opening up…

"I'm pretty sure, though I know how mediocre I am," Yuri spoke and it brought the blonde back to his senses. "That I've sought enough… And now, I guessed I've always been settled because… because I've already made a choice. And I will hold on to that as long as I have no reason to let go of it…"

Wolfram swallowed, he perfectly understood Yuri's words and his heart was racing as they flowed. Some part of him wanted to believe in where Yuri was getting at… And another part of him was still anxious and confused.

Yuri moved closer to him but the blonde was too confounded to move.

"I chose to be with you, Wolfram."

"Yuri!"

Now, Wolfram broke into tears, he didn't care if Yuri sees it this time. If he bottled it up again, he would be wasting Yuri's efforts tonight in opening up to him his thoughts. Yuri grabbed the blonde and soon, he was also crying silently wetting the golden curls where his chin was placed.

The two clutched onto each other lovingly. Then, Yuri removed his face on Wolfram's head to look at the blonde in the face. With his finger, he lifted the most beautiful face to stare up at him and when their eyes met, Yuri leaned and kissed the blonde. He held Wolfram closer against him so he could feel his heat more.

Yuri kept the kissing chaste; not wanting his sensual desires to overrule him again. Wolfram sighed through his nose, the gust of warm air fanning over Yuri's cheek, as Yuri kept him securely in place. Yuri kept his eyes open, holding Wolfram's gaze and watching his long lashes flutter as his lids fell to conceal the teary emeralds.

They broke apart to catch their breath before drifting closed again. Yuri delved his fingers into Wolfram's hair, letting the lustrous strands slither as his hand settled against the back of Wolfram's head. Wolfram set his own hands against the back of Yuri's shoulders to pull him closer. Soon, Yuri began touching Wolfram rapidly, lingering in one place no longer than a few seconds. His hands found a way to get inside Wolfram's clothing through the lower part of the blonde's top. Wolfram was both soft and warm, and his upper body was perfectly carved.

When Yuri's face moved lower to peck on Wolfram's neck, the blonde was fast to recoil which shocked the double black.

"I… I think… I think we should go to sleep…" Wolfram said nervously, looking down at the blankets.

Yuri didn't have to say a word. He'd been used to this, him being aggressive and Wolfram putting a stop to it. Wolfram had every right to do so and Yuri had no right to even go this far. What were they actually? Yes, they were engaged but Yuri has yet to say those three words before Wolfram had to believe that what he was doing with him has a meaning.

Yuri knew why he was doing this, he like Wolfram. And his principles were starting to weaken, not being always minded of especially at times like this. Could this mean that I'm really falling for Wolfram? For a guy?

Somehow the answer was already becoming vivid to Yuri…

Wolfram was climbing back to the bed; apparently, he didn't wait for Yuri's reaction to his suggestion because he himself was determined. Yuri, on the other hand, was still relishing what just occurred while lost in his thoughts.

"Yuri?" Wolfram asked in a sleepy voice, snapping Yuri from his state.

"Oh… yes Wolf?" Yuri asked and began fixing his blankets.

"Well… um… We did it again… I was wondering if I ask you something?" Wolfram rolled and rested on his side so he could have a view of Yuri.

"What is it?"

"How… how do you feel about me… now?" Wolfram was glancing back and forth from Yuri to his hands which were positioned before him.

This is it. Yuri was still uncertain and not quite sure of how to respond to that, but he was sure of his reason why he was doing all this.

Yuri's face was like a tomato when he answered his companion, "I… I like you, Wolfram… I like doing this with you… I like being close to you… I like everything about you…"

Wolfram blushed again at that, whistling out his sigh instead, as if that would release a bit of the heat that was building up in him. Yuri knew Wolfram was waiting for one answer that no blabbering could equal those three special words he'd been longing to hear.

Wolfram waved his hand in a way that told Yuri not to mind in anymore, as if he had read his thoughts.

"Nah… I'm not forcing you to say something you're still not sure of," Wolfram said. "I'm fine hearing that at least, the Yuri Shibuya finally like being closer to me."

Wolfram smiled fondly and Yuri had the urge to kiss him again but he just controlled himself and focused on the nice mood that was brewing between them. Yuri returned the smile and he sat up.

"Do you have to say, the Yuri Shibuya?"

Wolfram nodded mischievously. "Of course, you're a history to me."

"Hahahahaha," Yuri started laughing madly, and soon Wolfram joined him.

"Can I lay beside you for the night?" Yuri slipped apprehensively. Wolfram gave a moment to mull over it before moving to the far side edge of the bed against the wall.

"Sure," Wolfram answered. "As long as you behaved like a king should."

"Nah?"

"I bet you're not going to last anyway, because I'll be having my merry-go-round moves in the middle of my sleep, and next thing you know, you're back on your mattress," Wolfram warned flippantly while Yuri moved to lay beside him.

"We'll see."

They smiled again at one another, watching each other as if contending who will fall into sleep faster. Yuri's smile never faded as well as the other boy's, he watched how Wolfram's eyes slowly closed with his long eyelashes settling marvelously against his upper cheeks. It was like watching an angel fall asleep…

"Good night, Wolfram."

"Sweet dreams, Yuri."

"Wait!" Yuri whispered all of a sudden and Wolfram's eyes opened a bit at that.

"What?"

"Can… Can I hold you?"

Wolfram didn't answer him but moved closer so he could be cuddled in Yuri's arms. He slipped his arms past Yuri's waist and rested his palms against Yuri's back, patting it gently. Wolfram's warmth against him had always been so comforting. Yuri felt his heart melting at the loving touch.

Before Yuri could delve into his own dreams, he noted the red nose of his blonde friend finally resting in peace, but twitching every now and then. Little did Wolfram knew, the Maoh healed him during their embrace on the sofa. Cute Wolfram.

"What I truly felt about you…" Yuri spoke finally with his eyes shut already but still half-conscious and Wolfram was already snoring quietly. "I want to fall in love with you."

To be continued…

Get ready the next chapter's the Harry Potter Fan Day for Wolfram!

I know this chapter is too cheesy but I really had fun writing it, I hope you enjoy it as much as I do! Again, I'm going to ask of you what you think about it :)

Happy Christmas!

Songs of Inspiration:

Closer by Ne-yo

Can I have this dance? by Zac Efron & Vanessa Hudgens

If I'm Not In Love With You by Faith Hill

Drowning by Backstreet Boys

Eternal Flame by MYMP/ Human Nature

Falling Slowly by Lee Dewyze and Crystal Bowersox

I need to be next to you by Leigh Nash

Make you feel my love by Adele

Sometimes love just ain't enough by Patty Smith and Don Henry

(I think this is the best theme song of Yuuram, the lyrics speak the truth between them)