A/N: I'm so sorry it took so long to write this chapter, but I moved so I didn't have much time to work on this story, but hopefully this long chapter will make up for that. Again, sorry. So, here's the next chapter. Enjoy!

Warnings: This entire chapter will have a flashback and there will be a lemon in the chapter.

ScarletRoofs- Thank you! ^_^

Littlepanther- Hehe, probably, yeah. I won't give any spoilers, but there will be lots of drama in the next few chapters.

'Talking'-flashback

Two months had passed since Ryoma moved in with Kevin. Honestly, though? He wasn't doing so well; at least Kevin didn't think so. The boy didn't go out much, only when he had to and for tournaments, but that's it. It was depressing, actually; watching him moping around the apartment was making the blond annoyed to be frank.

When he looked at the younger boy's stomach though, he could see a small bulge starting to form. He definitely needed to get him out of the house, for all three of their sakes. It was driving him crazy how the only thing the black haired boy did was stay home all day. He wanted to help him move on; he wanted him to get better. This definitely wasn't how he pictured all of this.

"Ryoma, let's go out tonight." He told him as he slid onto the couch next to the younger. When he didn't get as much as a look back, he nudged the boy and leaned in. "Please? We're in Los Angeles, there's so much stuff to do here! We could go to the beach or a night club, as long as you don't drink, of course." He looked at him pleadingly, hoping that the raven haired boy would agree.

And to his greatest, but not unwelcome surprise, Ryoma sighed and turned to him with a scowl on his cute face. "Fine, but we'll only be out for two hours at most, got it?" He asked with an annoyed expression on his face. Honestly, that boy kept asking and begging him to go out every day. It was getting so annoying that Ryoma just couldn't say no anymore. He just wanted to get this over with.

When the blond agreed, Ryoma got up and went to change from his loungewear into some jeans and a t-shirt. "I'm not going to the beach, you can forget about that." He used to go to the beach all the time when he lived here when he was younger, it was annoying though. The beach didn't really have anything that he wanted and truthfully, he's never been to nightclub before and now that he's single again…

"The club it is then!" Kevin got up and went to change quickly. When he came out, he leaned on the doorway and smirked. "So, how do I look?" He was wearing black skinny jeans with a dark green v-neck t-shirt and honestly, he kind of looked sexy to him. If Ryoma wasn't used to being around sexy men, he might have actually blushed. Thankfully, though he knew how to control himself.

"Like we need to get going before I change my mind." Ryoma replied nonchalantly and went on ahead to grab the keys. "Hurry up!" He wasn't in the mood for the blonds antics. Besides, it was his idea that they go. He went out the door and waited outside in the hallways for the blond to come outside already.

"Yeah, yeah, I'm coming. You're such a spoil sport." He grumbled under his breath, before taking the keys from the smaller boy and going on ahead to start his car.

"Falling in love, romance, matters of the heart - when you fall in love, on some biochemical level you know there is a chance it won't work out. It's ingrained in us that if you take such an enormous risk on someone with your heart that it might not pay off. I gamble all my chips and I might actually lose everything."

-Rachael Taylor

X

His world darkened as he continued to stare at those violet eyes and he swore he saw a light of hope in them. But for all he knew, it could be a trick of the eye, something he made up. But as quickly as it came, it left, leaving only arrogance and determination behind. It was overwhelming; he had this need to just get away. Run. But his feet wouldn't move and he just continued to watch as four more eyes settled on him. This was surreal; a nightmare come true. And in the midst of it all, an image of the man who was his love appeared in his head.

"Echizen, I can't help it, I think that your tennis style is simply… divine. Please go on a date with me?"

"Mada mada dane."

His jaw clenched as unwanted memories began to flow into his head. This couldn't be happening! Why the hell was he remembering this now of all times?! No… he couldn't do this right now. He had to run, to get away from this place… away from them.

Finally getting his legs to move, he ran back to the elevator, hurriedly the elevator button and getting on when it finally opened. He made sure that he was the only one inside; ignoring the calls of his name being yelled. He leaned against the wall and closed his eyes; all of his worries were coming full force. This had to be some sick and cruel joke. He didn't want this dammit!

When the elevator finally dinged to the eighth floor, he practically ran to his room, wrenching the door open and locking it after he got inside. He wasn't safe anywhere anymore, not here, not with them around. It just wasn't fair!

Ryoma's body slid down the door as he covered his face with his hands, feeling tears sliding down his cheeks as memories began to flood his mind.

Seven years ago…

Fourteen year old Ryoma Echizen looked out the window as his boring teacher gave a boring lecture. Again. Honestly? Couldn't they just get on with it already; he could hear the teacher droning on about something or other. Not that he cared; he already knew all this stuff, this class was just another easy A.

He couldn't wait for school to be over. He wanted to get to the tennis court as soon as possible, he was itching to play. This was his last year in middle school, he would be going to Tojo Minami High School, it had one of the best tennis clubs in the country. Not to mention the fact that some of his old teammates went there too.

When the bell finally rang, he got up and practically ran to his next class. It wasn't like he was looking forward to it, quite the opposite. Horio was in his next class and he got even more annoying than before, if that was even possible. At the very least though, he'd be out of this crappy class.

When he got to his next class, he sat down next to a window seat in the back again, those seats were always better, especially when it came to annoying classmates. He watched as some of classmates began to file in, hoping that none of them would notice him. It didn't seem to be his day though.

"Oi! Captain! When are we going to play against Shitenhoji again?" Katsuo asked him as he came over to him, an excited look on his face.

Ryoma glanced at him and shrugged. He didn't know exactly when, especially since their captain, Toyama Kintaro was unpredictable as always. "Don't know, just ask Kachiro to schedule a match for us." He replied nonchalantly, before looking out the window again. It was always like this, his teammates were just too excited sometimes. He kind of wished he was a first year again, that was the most fun he had in the three years he attended Seigaku.

When Momoshiro and Kaidoh, last year's captain and co-captain, left to go to high school, they chose him to be captain and Kachiro to be co-captain. He protested at first, but after getting an angry look from Kaidoh, he finally agreed. It was annoying, but he had a feeling that he didn't even have a choice. He was still the best player in Seigaku, even after all this time. Sure, Kachiro, Katsuo, and even Horio got better, but still, he was number one.

Well, he thought with a smirk on his face as Ryuzaki came inside with a blush on her face and Kachiro's arm around her waist, at least she and her friend Tomoka finally left him alone, once they got boyfriends of their own. He was glad they finally gave up; there was no way that he would have ever been with them. He was way too busy with tennis and besides that, he didn't really like anyone that way.

Before he could continue to revel in his thoughts, finally the annoying devil he was thinking about showed up with his arm around Tomoka. They fit perfectly with each other, he thought in amusement. "Oi! Echizen, why can't you tell me which high school you're going to?! I thought we were friends." Ryoma sighed and shook his head. This is exactly why he had no intention of telling him; the other boy would follow him and that just wouldn't do.

"Mada mada dane." He replied and quirked his eyebrow with a smirk when the teacher came in too after them. "And it's captain to you. Now, sit down before you get another detention." That boy had gotten so many detentions this past year that if he got any more this month, he'd have to be kicked off the regulars, at least that's what Coach Ryuzaki told him.

Grumbling, Horio went and sat down next to him, letting his girlfriend sit in the seat in front of him. He knew he'd be having an argument with the guy later, but the black haired boy didn't really care. At least he got rid of him for now.

XX

"Ugh, finally!" Ryoma grumbled to himself as he stepped onto the tennis court. The day seemed to be going by especially slowly today. How annoying!

He looked around the court and nodded when he saw that most of the team had already arrived, though there were some stragglers. He really just wanted to play a match, making him hope that the rest of the team would just hurry up already! Maybe he'd just have to assign laps to those who were coming in late. Especially Horio, who wasn't even in the clubhouse! What a bother.

The raven haired boy sighed and turned to Kachiro and Katsuo with an annoyed look on his face. "Have either of you seen Horio anywhere?"

Both of them shrugged as they looked at each other, though Kachiro answered. "He was in all of his classes, so I don't know why he isn't here." Ryoma already knew that, so it wasn't news to him. He just wanted to find out where he is now. Although, knowing him, he's probably either in detention or making out with Tomoka. A feeling of nausea went through him as he thought about the latter. Disgusting. "He didn't get any detentions today either." The other boy continued thoughtfully.

Well, that ruled out detention. "Maybe he's skipping practice today?" Katsuo supplied as he scratched his head. The short captain scowled, before looking at the rest of the team. If he really was skipping, Ryoma was definitely going to assign him more laps, a lot more laps.

"Next time you see him, tell him that for skipping, he'll be doing five hundred laps." Nope, he wasn't going too far. With his track record, he'd say he was going easy on that guy. If it was Tezuka or Kaidoh in his place, they'd probably assign him even more laps. When the two were about to protest, he finally heard Horio's annoying voice.

"Oi! Echizen! There's someone here to see you!" Horio yelled as he ran over to him, panting when he finally reached him. "You won't believe who's here!" He told him in excitement, making Ryoma raise his eyebrow in curiosity. Who was it now? Wait; don't tell him, could it be possibly Kintaro again? That boy seemed to be showing up unexpectedly ever since they met.

He focused on Horio and put his arms on his chest. "Is that where you were?" If it was Kintaro, he'd deal with that boy in a bit, he was itching for a tennis match and it seemed probable that he would get one, especially if it was the redhead. "In any case, you get twenty laps for being late. You know I don't tolerate excuses, especially since you could have been here earlier to tell me. You're twenty minutes late, Horio." There, that should do it.

The taller boy groaned at being assigned laps with a pout on his face. Maybe he really shouldn't have made out with his girlfriend before coming here? But then again, if he didn't, then he wouldn't have being able to meet their special guest. And when he said special guest, he meant it. This was the first time he'd seen the man show up here in Seigaku, it was weird. Especially, since he was demanding to see his captain.

"Alright, so whose here to see me? If it's Toyama, he can wait for a couple minutes." He told him, before turning to Kachiro with a sigh. "Alright, not including Horio, I want you to pair up the regulars to do practice matches. The rest need to work on their swings." He looked at the clipboard, before nodding and handing it over to his vice captain. "When, or I should say if, Horio finishes his laps in time, he should be assigned a partner to do a practice match as well."

When the other boy nodded, he turned to walk out of the court and find the person who was looking for him, who was most likely Kintaro. That boy never quit. However, before he could go any further, he heard a voice he hasn't heard in quite a while. "Hello, Echizen, it's been a long time; I've been looking for you."

XXX

Ryoma's eyes widened as he stared at the former captain of Rikkai. "W-why, Yukimura-senpai?" He was stunned! What did the former captain of Rikkai want with him?! It didn't make sense! Sure, they fought against each other and were civil during the U-17 camp. But still! What exactly did he want from him?! One idea came to mind, but he didn't exactly know if he was correct. "If you're trying to get me to attend the same high school as you next year, it's not going to happen. It's already been decided that I'm going to Tojo."

The blue haired captain laughed a bit, before shaking his head. "While it is a pity that I can't recruit you to attend Kanagaki, that's not what I came here to see you for." He smiled at him warmly and stepped closer to him. "I'm here to ask you something else actually, something that has been on my mind since our game at the nationals." Huh, well that was interesting.

"Alright, then. Out with it!" He wasn't really in the mood for games right now. He thought that it would be Kintaro for sure and that he'd get to play against him. But now… he didn't know what to think. What could the former captain of Rikkai possibly want from?! A rematch? If that was the case, then he'd certainly oblige.

Those violet eyes looked right into his and he lifted his hand to brush Ryoma's hair back. "Echizen, I can't help. I think your tennis is simply… divine. Will you go on a date with me?" He asked him gently, hoping that he wouldn't scare the boy away. He had this crush on him for a long time, and now that Echizen was finally old enough, he wanted to be with him instead of always watching him in the distance when he would play his tennis tournaments.

Ryoma's eyes widened in surprise at that. Never would have guessed that the elder boy felt like this for him. It was… shocking! Sure, he knew that Kikumaru and Oishi got together when they still attended Seigaku, but never in a million years did he think something like that would happen to him! Especially, since he didn't even like anyone. Well, he guessed the bluenette is definitely going to be disappointed. "Mada mada dane."

He turned to walk away from his once enemy and back onto the court. This day was truly one of the worst days he's had since the start of the year. "Wait, Echizen!" The older boy walked after him and put his hand on his shoulder. "How about a proposition?" He asked him sweetly. He knew that he would probably be turned down at first, but he also knew that there was no way that the raven haired boy would turn down a game between them.

He looked back at him with surprise and tilted his head. "What kind of proposition?" He was starting to grow weary of the man; after all, not even Ryuzaki had ever been this persistent when he turned her down. All she did was run away crying; even Tomoka hesitated in asking him out after he told her best friend he had no interest in dating.

"Play a tennis game with me." His smile widened as he saw that the boy was itching for a tennis match. "If you win, I won't bother you again." He could see that Echizen was definitely starting to consider his offer. It was too good to be true, and it really was. "However, if I win, you go on that date with me." He knew that Ryoma would hesitate, but he also knew that he always took on his challengers. That was exactly why he was confident. Sure, he could lose; but that was highly unlikely since he developed his skills quite a bit. And he had everything to win and he would win. There was no question of it.

The smaller boy bit his lip, before looking back at the courts and knitted his eyebrows together. It was true, he wished to play someone strong, someone who he wasn't sure he could win against. And Yukimura was definitely that person. He was probably the strongest player in Japan; winning against him would be a dream come true. Though he had won against him before, another win against the Child of God, would be perfect! Looking back at the other captain, he smirked. "Fine, let's play, Mr. God, sir."

XXXX

He couldn't believe it. He really couldn't. His eyes widened in realization as the umber announced him the loser. How was this even possible, he was sure that he'd beat the blue haired man! But instead, he lost. He fell for Yukimura's tricks again. But this time, even Teni Muhō no Kiwami didn't help him. While he was still playing middle school tennis with the other middle schoolers, who weren't as talented as those who previously played, Kintaro and himself not counting, of course; Yukimura on the other hand, had plenty of time to hone his skills and get better, what with Tezuka, Fuji, Sanada, Shiraishi, and the others around to play.

"Echizen," The other boy's voice broke him out of his thoughts as he gazed at the other with dread in his eyes. "I believe you owe me a date now." He could even hear the smirk in his voice; the bastard was probably enjoying his defeat. "How about we go together to the Cherry Blossom Festival that's being held in here in Tokyo?" He could see the hope shining in those violet eyes and honestly, he lost there was no way he could extinguish the hope there anymore.

"Fine," Ryoma sighed as he came closer to the older boy and put his hands in his pockets. Well, there was no way to get out of this one that was for sure. "You can pick me up from my home or we can meet each other there; whatever you want." He didn't mind it either way, though he could practically hear his dad making jokes about himself and Yukimura. God, this was going to be embarrassing as hell to tell his parents.

"I think I'll just pick you up from your home actually." Yukimura's smile widened and his eyes softened. "There's no need to give me your address, Fuji already gave it to me, actually." He didn't know if he would catch Ryoma at Seigaku or not, so just in case he asked his friend for his home address. Looks like he needed it anyways for their date. "I'm really looking forward to tomorrow. I'll see you then… Ryoma." He added his name at the end with a small giggle.

The raven haired boy blushed, before looking outside of the court to see some of his teammates gawking at him. Especially the other regulars, namely Horio and Katsuo. "What are you all doing there, don't you have practice?!" The nerve of them to actually spy on them! "Forty laps, all of you!" He snapped as he watched them all groan and start running their laps.

XXXXX

Ryoma sighed as he looked in the mirror with Nanako standing behind him with a smile on her face. "Oh, Ryoma, don't you look great?" She asked happily at her handy work. He wore a midnight blue yukata with fireflies on it. It was beautiful in Nanako's opinion. Sure, Ryoma had protested when she picked out the fabric, but she knew what would look best on him. Especially for his little date! She giggled at the thought.

The younger boy turned to her with a scowl on his face. "What's so funny?!" It wasn't fair! Why did Nanako have to choose this yukata?! It made him look like a girl, dammit! If it was up to him, he would just choose a red or black plain yukata. But no, ever since his family had found out he had a date; they tried to choose what he should wear. It was so embarrassing! Especially, with his dad joking about who the special girl could actually be. If only they knew it was actually with a guy!

"Oh, nothing! I'm just wondering who the lucky girl is?" It was true, she was curious! He never had dates, even when she thought maybe he'd go out with that Ryuzaki girl, he never did. And he never actually expressed any interest in girls. It was always just tennis, school, and Karupin. It was surprising to say the least. But maybe it had something to do with Ryoga coming home to live with them soon?

He stared at her for a moment before going to his door to go downstairs, Yukimura would be here soon and he really didn't want to discuss this with her. Right before he left, he looked back at her over his shoulder and tilted his head. "It's with a guy." He informed her before going down stairs, not even caring about what shocking look she had on her face. His family was about to find out anyways, so what did it matter if he told her earlier?

XXXXXX

He was playing with Karupin when the door ringed, he looked up and saw his dad wink at him as he went to open the door for which he was sure was Yukimura. "I wonder what kind of girl she is." He laughed to himself, before opening the door.

Ryoma stiffened as he prepared himself for what would happen next. "Eh?! Who are you?!" He could practically hear how dumbfounded his dad was. It wasn't everyday a long haired pretty boy showed up for a date with his son. He really wished his dad wouldn't make a scene; he was already embarrassing as it was. "You're a guy!"

He could hear the smile in Yukimura's voice when he talked. "Hello, Mr. Echizen." He greeted him sweetly. The dark haired boy let his cat go and trailed his gaze over to the door where the two males were greeting each other. "My name is Seiichi Yukimura; I believe you saw me during my match with Ryoma during nationals." He blushed when he saw what Yukimura was wearing. He was wearing a light blue yukata with stripes on it. He also wasn't wearing his headband like he usually does, so that was quite a change for him. He looked quite handsome actually. "I'm here as his date."

The younger boy saw his dad gaping at the blue haired male and decided it was time to step in, lest his dad make an even bigger fool of himself. Now that would just be the icing on his cake. "Yukimura-senpai, I'm ready to go." He stood up and went past his dad, not even paying attention to any of his antics. He just wanted to get this over and done with, and then finally go home.

"Alright, then shall we go?" The former captain of Rikkai asked him as he smiled down at the boy and put his arm around his waist. "Goodbye, Mr. Echizen, it was very nice to meet you." He called to him, before they left. He found Ryoma's red face to be adorable, of course he knew exactly why he was so red, and that was exactly his plan. Ryoma would become his by the end of this night.

XXXXXXX

Ryoma blushed as he glanced at his date, it was awkward and loathe he admit it, but the bluenette was attractive. God, he wished said bluenette would never find out his attraction. He quickly looked away and scowled as he tried to think of something else to think about. There was no way in hell he was going to let Yukimura figure out his growing attraction.

"Ryoma, how about we go play one of those games? It looks fun!" Seiichi smiled knowingly as he pointed towards a mini basketball game with prizes. He had seen the younger male's glances from time to time, as well as the blushing. It was adorable! And honestly? He was thankful for it, he didn't really know what he would have done if Ryoma had rejected him.

The black haired boy glanced over at the mini basketball shooting game and pouted. "But… I don't know how to play it." He mumbled to himself. The only game he had actually played was against the third years in his first year and even then he used a broom. Ugh! Why did it have to be this game that the older boy had to choose?!

Yukimura's smile widened as he chuckled. He heard his cute mumbling and the darkening blush was just too much for him to handle. He was just too cute. He slipped his hand into the younger boys and pulled him along to the machine. He would definitely win his little love a prize! "Don't worry; I'll win a prize for you!"

He blanched when Yukimura grabbed his hand, but before he could say anything, the older boy pulled him along. Oh, this was just great. He was being treated like he was some kind of maiden in distress! Damn it all! He knew going on this date was a bad idea, a really bad one. But… he couldn't do anything about it, so what the hell. Looks like he'll just have to fulfill his role as a damsel for tonight, but there was no way in hell he would ever do this again!

XXXXXXXX

Ryoma looked down at the guitar in his arms and smiled a little. The older male had won him the guitar; he couldn't help, but smile at that. He thought the bluenette would just win him a stuffed animal or something as if he was a girl. But he didn't, when it was time to choose the prize; he chose the guitar for him. It made him feel warm inside. It was strange, but not unwelcome.

Yukimura smiled as he saw the younger boy smile at the guitar and leaned into him. "So, I take it you like your prize?" He asked him happily. He was glad that Ryoma was warming up to him. He had been worried that the younger male wouldn't be happy on their date and the night would end in disaster. He was glad that he was wrong and that everything was going great.

The raven haired male looked up and flashed him a big smile. "I am thank you." His happiness and gratefulness was showing on his face and Seiichi couldn't help, but fall in love even more with the younger boy. It was a beautiful sight, just like that time when he won the National Tournament way back then. He had no doubt that he was really in love with Ryoma Echizen, the younger boy was just incredible. "Do you want to go eat something now?" He asked him with a giggle, when Ryoma's stomach interrupted them with a loud roar.

The younger boy blushed in embarrassment and nodded. He didn't even know that he was hungry, how did he miss that? The older boy must have been laughing his head off inside himself by now. God, this was so embarrassing! This was even worse than when Horio tripped into him last year and he knocked off the drinks right into Kaidoh's face. If looks could kill, he'd be dead right now. That was one of the scariest moments ever!

"I see a Yakiniku stand over there, do you want to eat that?" The other boy interrupted his thoughts, making him look in the direction that the blue haired male was looking and nodded. "Yeah, that's fine, Senpai." After he said that, he started going in that direction, not paying attention if the other boy was walking behind him or not, at this point he didn't really care either way, though he scowled when he heard a giggle coming behind him from the other boy.

XXXXXXXXX

When the duo were finally returning back home, Yukimura insisted on walking him home, even though he told him that he can walk home by himself. Maybe he wanted to make sure that the date was successful? As much as he hated to admit it to himself, the date didn't go badly…it went very well actually, if not a bit awkward when they ran into Tezuka and Fuji who were also on a date together.

So, he here they were now, standing in front of his home with Ryoma blushing beet red as he stared at the blue haired male in front of him, not knowing what to do. He really felt like Ryuzaki right now when they were first years. Jeez. What was he supposed to do? Say goodbye and never see each other again? He couldn't help, but feel disappointed at that thought; he didn't want to admit it, but he liked spending time with Yukimura, today was… nice.

Lucky for him, Seiichi smiled and leaned in. "Today went really well, don't you think, Ryoma?" He asked him sweetly as his hot breath brushed the younger boys face, making him blush even harder. "We should definitely go on another date again, right?" It was hard for Ryoma to answer as he licked his lips and looked at the older boy's lips, before looking back at his eyes. He definitely wanted another date and he knew that he should stop blushing like a school girl and answer.

When he finally opened his mouth to answer though, the older boy closed the distance between them and kissed Ryoma chastely on the lips, pulling away after a few moments. The raven haired boy stared dazedly at him, before reaching his hand to touch his lips. He couldn't believe it, he actually just had his first kiss and to Seiichi Yukimura, the Child of God, of all people. It was… incredible. He couldn't do anything, except lick his lips and nod in confirmation as he tried to slow his heartbeat down.

"I'll see you later then." He smiled down at him knowingly as he reached towards his face and tucked one of his hair strands behind his ear and leaned over to steal another kiss, before leaning back and smiling brightly. "Goodnight, Ryoma." He turned to walk away to the train station.

"'Night." The younger boy whispered as he watched him leave, a blush was still on his face as red as ever. When the older boy disappeared, he turned towards his home and went inside, clutching his new guitar towards his body. He scowled when he saw the wide eyes of his cousin and dad. "Mada mada dane."

XXXXXXXXXX

3 months later…

Ryoma sighed as he leaned against the tennis court fence, watching as his team practiced. It was boring as hell, if you asked him. None of them had played very well in his opinion. The only opponent he had this year who was up to par with him was Kintaro and they had to wait until nationals for them to play. He grimaced at that and sighed again. Nationals wouldn't be happening until next month. They had already passed through the Kanto Tournament and gotten first place, not surprisingly Rikkaidai got second, even without the Three Monsters of Rikkai and the Ace of Rikkai. That was quite a feat, but then again, there wasn't anyone who was as good as the former third years. That really bummed him out.

"Oi! Echizen, your boyfriend is here to see you!" Horio's annoying voice rang through his thoughts, making Ryoma scowl in annoyance. Said voice came closer to him, along with a chuckle, making him look over and sigh as looked at his smiling boyfriend. "U-uhh, I mean the former captain of Rikkaidai, Yukimura-senpai is here." He stuttered nervously looking at the sadist in apology.

He shook his head and ticked his tongue at the redhead's antics. "Fine, just go practice with the others already." The redhead was really pissing him off lately, especially with how disrespectful he was to both himself and his boyfriend; ever since he found out about them, he started being even ruder than before. What a nuisance. "And it's Captain Echizen!" He yelled the last part as the boy ran off to practice.

Seiichi chuckled as he leaned in closer to Ryoma and hugged him from the back, putting his face on the smaller boys shoulder as he snuggled in. "That boy kind of reminds me of you when you were in your first year, though you're much cuter than he'll ever be." He kissed the raven haired boys cheek smiled. Ryoma was much cuter than most people in his opinion.

He turned his head and glared at the other male."I was never that rude! He doesn't even call me captain!" At the very least he had called everyone by their titles; the redheaded idiot on the other hand was just annoying. He sighed and leaned into the older male, smiling as he felt the warmth of his boyfriend on his back. "Things aren't the same like they used to be."

"They will be similar to how things were next year when you go to high school." The bluenette answered as he looked at his gently, trying to soothe his little love. "Just enjoy being captain for the rest of the year. You still have Toyama as an opponent, right?" He knew his little one was having a difficult time not playing tennis with strong opponents, but he still had Toyama to play with in the meantime. He didn't think the little guy could have survived if he didn't have the redheaded captain to at least play against. "I guess that's the consequence of being too good, too early." It was a pity.

"Mada mada dane." Ryoma turned his body to face his boyfriend and looped his hands around his neck. "I have Kintaro and I have you, of course. Right?" He asked him as he raised his eyebrow looking at him expectedly. Sure, the other captain had won most of their matches, but it was still fun to play with him, and sometimes he'd even invite Sanada to play with them, making it all the more fun.

"Of course!" Yukimura chuckled as he hugged his boy back tightly, looking warmly into his eyes.

XXXXXXXXXXX

Two months later…

Ryoma looked over at his mom as she prepared the meal for them, she was exceptionally happy today. His parents had been nagging him to meet his boyfriend, eventually so did Nanako and when Ryoga came to live with them, he started pestering him about Yukimura too after his dad told him about the bluenette. And much to Ryoma's displeasure, they finally got their wish. Yukimura was coming over to have dinner with them. This was going to be a nightmare, he just knew it.

"Oi! Chibisuke, why are you so worried?" The older Echizen asked his baby brother as he leaned over him with a smile on his face. "I'm sure dinner's going to be fine, you have nothing to worry about." When Ryoga heard his little bro had a boyfriend, he really couldn't believe it! Sure, the boy was adorable in every way and he knew that a number of people would be attracted to the boy, boys more so than even girls, but he didn't think the little guy would actually give anyone a chance. Plus there was the fact that this boyfriend of his was older and he knew what guys at that age were like. Anger started to rise inside as he thought about all the inappropriate things the guy wanted to do with Ryoma.

"Mada mada dane." He glanced at the older boy, before turning around and walking towards the stairs. Sure, he was nervous, but he sure wasn't going to show the older boy that. It wouldn't do, especially since he was vary of him. He couldn't really tell how he felt about him having a boyfriend. Sometimes he would joke about it, and then other times he would ask him these weird questions about what he did with Seiichi. Every time that happened, he just turned around and walked away. But tonight, he wasn't so sure about what his older brother would do. God, he hoped everything would go alright. Ryoga and his dad were the ones they had to worry about, Nanako and his mom were excited and happy for him. He face-palmed himself on the way to his room, when he saw his dad looking seriously at him while he was holding sake. He didn't even want to know what the old man was thinking. Why did his family have to be so weird?!

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Ryoma fidgeted in his seat as everyone was eating dinner. He wasn't really hungry though, not in the least. In fact, he felt more like he was going to vomit. It wasn't the food, no the food tasted great; his mother made Japanese, his favorite. It was the fact that his father was eying his boyfriend, while his brother was glaring at the bluenette. His family really sucked.

Seiichi leaned over to his and whispered sweetly as his left arm massaged his right thigh in comfort. "Stop worrying, you need to eat." He knew his little love was nervous, hell the nerves were practically screaming at him. But he could take care of himself, both the elder Echizen males were suspicious of him and he could understand that, but there was no way in hell he would ever give up his Ryoma.

The youngest Echizen scowled at the other boy and huffed as he looked down. "I'm not hungry." He whispered back and looked over Nanako hoping that his cousin would help him out. He knew she knew what was going on, it wasn't a secret how protective his dad and brother seemed to get when it came to him. Still though, she was often than not on his side, preferring to tell the other males to give him space. This time, however, she didn't do that. That was really annoying him.

He huffed and stabbed him one of his chopsticks on his bowl as he turned to look at his mom pleadingly, hoping that she would help him out. She was his last chance! He didn't want Yukimura to get spooked by his family and breaking up with him or even his family telling him that he couldn't see the boy anymore. That would be horrible! Taking pity on her little boy, the Echizen matriarch cleared her throat and smiled as she turned towards her husband. "Nanjiro, darling, Yukimura is quite a nice young man, don't you think?" She asked him sweetly, daring him to object.

His dad looked at his wife and gulped as he glanced at the bluenette, before sagging his shoulders. "I-I guess." It was no use, he couldn't argue with the woman, she was as feisty as Ryoma when she wanted to be and angry as his son as well. If he didn't agree with her, he knew he'd be sleeping in the temple for at least two weeks. He wished for once his dearest wife would understand his concerns about Ryoma being with his boyfriend. Alas, he knew that he couldn't voice his objections, at least not yet.

Rinko turned to look at said young man and flashed him an even brighter smile. "So, Yukimura, where did you say you go to high school?" She found her son's boyfriend to be absolutely perfect! She was so happy that the raven haired boy found a good guy! Now, if only her husband and adoptive son could stop being so paranoid!

Seiichi looked at her and smiled back politely, his eyes as warm as ever. "Please, call me Seiichi." He liked Ryoma's mom, she quite nice and unlike the other two Echizen's, she didn't seem to want to break them up. He was glad that his love had a good mom. "I go to Kanagaki Academy in the Kanagawa Prefecture, it's actually close to Rikkaidai, that's one of the reasons I chose that school, as well as many others have from my school."

"Kanagawa, huh?" Ryoga asked as he narrowed his eyes. "That's quite a ride from there to here just to see Chibisuke, isn't it?" He heard that the guy came to see him quite often that made it suspicious enough. But from Kanagawa?! That was an hour away from here! Ignoring the glare coming from both his adoptive mom and Ryoma, he continued as he leaned in. "And didn't you say earlier that you were the captain of your tennis team?!"

The bluenette simply cocked his head to the side and put his arm around Ryoma's waist as he leaned and kissed the top of the boys head. "What can I say? I'm in love with Ryoma, and I simply just can't stay away from him." It was true; he had fallen even more in love with him than before they went out. Spending time with the boy made him feel so happy, just like tennis did, maybe even more so. "You have nothing to worry about, I practice with Ryoma and as for my tennis team, my Vice Captain is very good at training my team to win. Sanada is quite competent in that regard."

Before Ryoga could say anything else, his mom gave his a death glare that said that if he didn't shut up, there would be dire consequences. So without another thought, he turned towards his food and started eating, he really didn't want to make Rinko even more mad than she was already.

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Ryoma sighed as he leaned against the wall and crossed his arms, watching as his brother played with Karupin. It was adorable how his brother fell in love with his cat the same way he did. He would have thought that it was in their genes, but their dad didn't like cats, so go figure.

"Oi! Chibisuke, what are you laughing at?" His brother asked him as he turned to look at him, holding Karupin in his arms, who peered at him as well. He honestly looked like an older version of Ryoma, except taller. It kind of freaked him out the way they looked so much like each other, it was kind of scary. Especially since his boyfriend might fall for him as well, considering how Ryoga looked.

Musing out of his thoughts, the younger shook his head and waved it off. "It's nothing." He had no intention of telling him his thoughts; the older boy would just tease him about it later, like he always did. Speaking of which, he huffed at his brother and gave him a glare. "Look, I know you're overprotective and whatever about me, but don't mess with my relationship with Seiichi, I like him."

Ryoga snorted and shook his head at the other raven. "I'm just worried about you, Chibisuke. Can't a guy worry about his reckless little brother?" He asked him as he stood, letting the cat go and walked towards him with a frown on his face. "You're my only brother and you're so little that I can't help, but worry." He threw an arm over his little brothers shoulder and drew him in. "There's nothing wrong with a big brother worrying." It kind of sounded like he was trying to convince himself more than Ryoma, not that the younger cared either way.

"Mada mada dane." He told the taller of two as he escaped his grasp and went to his room, with Karupin following after him.

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Months had passed since Ryoma started going out with Yukimura, in fact it was the week of graduation. He was going to start high school in just two weeks. It kind of made him a little nervous, but excited at the same time. He would finally get to be on the same tennis team as his old captain and some of his old teammates. He had already chosen a captain from the second years, not that it mattered. Like he predicted, even though they won nationals, most of the other players sucked, the exception being Kintaro and himself.

He was brought out of his musings when an arm wrapped around his waist and he received a kiss on his neck. "Are you ready to go or are you still hell bent on watching the younger years practice?" The smooth voice asked him as the older male snuggled deeper into his body.

The younger boy turned around to face his blue haired lover and licked his lips, before capturing the others. He loved kissing his boyfriend, the other boy was an excellent kisser and that of course made it all the better.

Seiichi deepened the kiss as he tightened his older on the boy for a moment, before breaking the kiss. "As much as I love kissing you, I think we're causing a bit of a scene, love." He told him as he gestured towards his side where some of the regulars were standing and gaping at them.

Ryoma turned and scowled at them before taking the elder boys in his and walked off. They were going to have a date after school anyways; there wasn't any point in sticking around. Though, his teammates still annoyed the hell out of him. Especially that Horio who couldn't help, but comment on his and Seiichi's relationship every time. It pissed him off to no end.

The other regulars were just shocked that the 'Child of God' was actually with him, what made him so special that he was chosen. They always asked him questions, but he was always just happy to ignore them and let them think whatever they wanted. He didn't care. Or at least he shouldn't have cared, but then Horio with his two years of experience of everything had to insert himself into his relationship and start spreading rumors about them.

Every time his lies kept escalating that just last week he heard a rumor that Ryoma wasn't actually even a guy and that's why Seiichi was with him. The audacity of the redhead to suggest that Ryoma was cross dressing and pretending to be a guy just so that he could find a boyfriend was the last straw. He was seriously considering murdering the idiot until his boyfriend calmed him down and reminded him that after graduation, he won't be seeing Horio and the other ever again.

That was the only reason he calmed down, because it was true. Horio was accepted into Miyagi High School and thank god for that. Even if the brat continued to play tennis, they wouldn't be on the same level nor would they ever meet again. Miyagi was all the way across the city, so the chances of them meeting each other would be small.

As that thought crossed his mind, the other boy leaned against his boyfriend as they continued to walk towards a café.

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He sighed in agitation as the other boy lead him up to his room. The older boy had blindfolded him and that made him somewhat annoyed and somewhat excited at the same time. Why did he have to close his eyes anyways?! He had already seen Seiichi's room many times before. What was so different now?

Maybe he had a graduation gift for him? That sounded plausible considering tomorrow was graduation day for him. In one week and a half he would finally be going to high school and there he would finally be able to play tennis against strong players again. Oh, he couldn't wait! Sure, at times he would play practice matches against Seiichi and even Sanada and Yanagi at times when he watched his boyfriend practice and train his team. But practice matches weren't really the same as the ones before. They weren't as serious.

He got it! His graduation present had something to do with tennis that had to be it!

When the door opened and he was lead inside the room, he opened his eyes after he heard the click of the door being closed behind him. He looked towards his boyfriend first with a questioning glance, before finally taking in the room. For the first time since he entered, he finally took in the scent of roses and cherry blossoms. Looking around he found the room dimmed with curtains blocking the windows. There were candles lit everywhere creating a romantic scene and finally the bed had a number of throw pillows on the top that weren't there before and rose petals laying all across the bed.

"Ryoma," The older boy whispered huskily into his ear as he hugged him from behind and kissed the back of his neck slowly. Suddenly, it was hard for him to breathe normally and the temperature of the room grew hot. Blazing even. His boyfriend led him to the bed, before turning him around and pushing him onto the bed with an unreadable look in his eyes. "I love you, my Ryoma."

***LEMON SCENE CUT*** If you want to read the lemon scene, it will be posted on AO3 at a later time.

He laid snuggled into the body next to him in bliss. He was so happy, ecstatic even. They were both dirty, but he didn't care. He finally gave his virginity to his love. He loved Seiichi very much and he hoped they would be together forever. He knew that it could be just wishful thinking, but as he laid there in the other's arms, his head on his chest, watching as the blue haired boy slept peacefully and blissfully, he couldn't bring himself to care. His final thought before darkness took over was that Seiichi looked so beautiful when he was asleep.

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Ryoma sighed as he watched Fuji take a look at him again before whispering something into Atobe's ear. It had been like this since he started high school. It was so weird, not only did he find out that Atobe, Tezuka, and Fuji were all together, he also had his suspicions that Sanada was with them as well since he had seen them together a number of times at café's and such when he was on a date with his own boyfriend. But what was even more annoying was the fact that the diva, Atobe was CAPTAIN of their tennis team, with Tezuka as the co-captain. Sure, he made the tennis team regulars alright; Atobe wouldn't have it any other way.

When the captain just saw him at try outs, he smirked and declared that he didn't have to try out; he was already on the team. Not that he cared, it was just weird, or perhaps since he did beat the monkey king in Nationals three years ago, he was just acknowledging his skills and nothing more. Well, he hoped so, anyways. He would have to remember to mention this to Seiichi some time. The other would know what was going on, or at least some idea about it.

"Ochibi!" He heard a voice behind him yell, before he was glomped, with the other boy squeezing him happily. "Ochibi, why didn't you wait for me like I told you to?! I was looking for you everywhere!" The redhead whined as he sat down next to him in the lunchroom.

"I was too hungry to wait, Kikumaru-senpai." He told the other as he looked down at his bento. Some things never changed, that was for sure.

His senpai nodded as he looked at the bento that the younger had, before looking down at his own. "Then you better eat up! You know Captain Atobe and Vice Captain Tezuka are planning a hard menu today for us!" And that meant only one thing, if they didn't win today, they would have to drink Inui-juice. They both shuddered as they thought about it, before eating quickly and getting back to class when the bell rang.

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Ryoma sighed in exhaustion as his boyfriend lead him towards his own tennis court to watch them practice. He had already finished his own practice; Atobe was extra hard on them today, saying that they weren't practicing as hard as of late. That coupled with Tezuka's glare and the threat of Inui-juice had them all running and practicing as hard as they could. Though, in the end, some of them had ended up having to drink that disgusting juice. Thankfully, he wasn't one of those people, though he couldn't say the same for Kaidoh and Momoshiro.

"Seiichi!" He whined as he leaned towards the older boy. He had picked him up after tennis practice and dragged him to watch his own practice. His boyfriend could be such a slave driver sometimes! "I'm too tired!"

The bluenette chuckled as he drew the younger closer to him and kissed his head. "Don't worry, on the way back I'll give you a piggy back ride and you could sleep over at my house." The older boy reassured him before stopping completely before the tennis court and holding him tighter as he grew stiff.

"Seiichi?" The black haired boy asked as he looked up at his boyfriend in wonder, before looking towards the tennis court again and blinking when he noticed Sanada standing in front of the court, leaning on it with his arms crossed and a very determined look on his face as he gazed at them.

"Seiichi, Echizen, we need to talk."

If Ryoma had to guess, that was the moment that started the beginning of the end for their relationship.

"…Ryoma?" A concerned voice asked him as hot tears cascaded down his cheeks with a vengeance. He finally glanced towards the worried look of his boyfriend as the tears grew even more vigorous.

A/N: So, what do you think? Please review!