Rating: M

This contains malexmale action, you've been warned!

NezumixShion

Note: It's been some time since I wrote this story, so please keep in mind that my writing style has changed (hopefully, for the better) and I haven't wrote these characters in a while as well. Because of this, this story may seem very different to you, but I hope you still like it, nether the less!

Chapter 18:

The Truth

"Never tell the truth to people who are not worthy of it."
― Mark Twain

"Shion, I have an idea." Nezumi had a quick smile on his face, an idea on the top of his head. He doesn't know how he thought about it but it came fast to his head and he enjoyed the idea. He doesn't know how he hadn't thought about it before.

Shion was currently cleaning his room for him; almost like a housewife that Nezumi couldn't tear his eyes away from. See, Nezumi was doing badly in his math class at the moment. Although, he excelled in literature, he found no need to learning about long number equations and proofs that really didn't need proving. He'd much rather read or sleep to be honest. However, after a semester of putting off his homework and not caring, it was coming back and biting him in the ass.

His grade has severely diminished to the point that it is the only class bringing his grade point average down. When Shion found out he went almost on a tangent, angry that Nezumi was spending the time he could have been studying with Shion. Shion almost thought of it his fault, which Nezumi assures, is ridiculous.

But, Shion had his point and said that there would be no more sex until Nezumi finished his homework and until then, he would oversee Nezumi's studies. Nezumi thought it a bit adorable (as well as annoying), but he had one condition. Shion would clean his room. At first, Shion was bit against it, but after thinking a bit, he agreed.

And, that took them to today. Shion was currently going through Nezumi's scattered books, trying to actually organize them. Although, Shion is pretty sure they haven't been in a bookcase in a long time. He turned around to look at Nezumi who was sitting at his desk.

"It better not be like your idea this morning." Shion gave him a small look, a slight red on his cheeks. He's been cleaning for almost a full hour and he was nowhere near done. Unfortunately, when he had signed up to clean Nezumi's room, it also included cleaning Mitty's side of the room. These boys were devils.

From across the room, he heard Nezumi chuckle slightly.

"I still believe you would have looked good in a maid outfit." With a glint in his eyes, he let out a bit of a sigh like he was disappointed. Shion only shook his head and ignored Nezumi's claim.

"You're ridiculous!" Shion bent over and Nezumi's eyes wandered over to the nice curve of his ass before snapping back. He really would have looked good in a skirt.

"But, no, that wasn't my idea." Nezumi pointed out to Shion. Shion stood up and waited for Nezumi to continue, unaware of Nezumi's eyes from before. He was truly too naïve.

"I was thinking, I never really took you on a date, did I?" His voice was unusually quiet. Shion's eyes were wide; nothing as such sort ever even entered his brain. It was true, all the time they were dating they never went on an actual date, not saying it wouldn't be nice, but it was never a big deal to Shion.

Nezumi stayed quiet a bit, he didn't know where his voice went. It was embarrassing of him to know that he was a bit embarrassed right now. He'd never taken even a girl on a date. His previous relationships with boys and girls had always been mostly physical. They were also a bit emotional, but only on his partner's side. But, now he had a reason, an actually want to take Shion out. Almost like he had to prove to Shion that he cared enough to take him out.

"I like that idea." Shion was sincere; the idea was a good one, much better than Nezumi's other idea. He knew it was more time that he could spend with Nezumi. When school ended after winter break he didn't know if he'd be able to spend as much time with Nezumi.

"Really?" He was almost surprised by Shion's response. How was it fair that Shion seemed so composed while he felt like jumping out of his chair to hug him. Shion let out a small laugh.

"Of course." He reassured, causing Nezumi's shoulders to relax, a small smile placing on his face. Nezumi didn't know why he was so worried for Shion's response. He wasn't one to get scared easily, but he couldn't help but feel his breath stop when Shion delivered his reply

But, he felt kind of guilty at the same time. He hadn't asked Shion on a date for the whole of the months they've been dating. Did that make him a bad boyfriend? In movies and plays, the couples usually went out often with each other. But, he'd never done something as such before so this would be a first time for both of them.

"Hey… Shion?" Nezumi mumbled, causing Shion to sigh and turn around.

"One more question and you have to work on your math." Shion countered, almost in a stern motherly way that annoyed Nezumi.

"Fine. I was just wondering what you want to do on our date?" Nezumi asked, a bit quiet, as if he was embarrassed to ask. Shion couldn't help but smile, noticing how this particular conversation made Nezumi fidget. He understood why right away. Although, Nezumi was experienced with both men and woman, it was mostly in a sexual manner, not as much at a connecting emotional level. For the first time in his life, Nezumi had to go on an actual date. It was a bit weird for him.

"Hmmm, I've never really been on one before." Shion was edging Nezumi on, urging him to pick a place that the both of them to enjoy. Too bad Nezumi's head was a little too thick for him to understand.

"Uh, I don't know. What do you want?"

"Nezumi! Stop asking what I want. It's time for you to choose what you want." Shion replied boldly. He gestured with his hands as if to prove his point. Nezumi gave him a sarcastic look.

"Fine. Do you want to get food in the city or something this weekend?" Shion couldn't help but grin that he'd finally made a choice. It somehow felt more official that way.

"Sure. I'll get out permission forms to leave the school." Shion walked over to where Nezumi sat. Quickly, and carefully leaning down to plant his full lips onto Nezumi's tasting the sweet of his lips. It was a chaste kiss but it left both of them breathless.

"Thanks!" Shion continued, going back to the cleaning he was doing. He turned around, letting Nezumi go back to his math.

Nezumi tried desperately to hide the genuine grin that was coming to form on his face. But, he didn't mind that the smile was out and showing this time.

[]

The weather was cold. Well, it should be; it was winter. But, this particular day wasn't frigid like the rest of the winter weather they've had to deal with. It was cold, a light snow falling from the sky, dotting the greyish-blue sky with white. But, the wind was low, making the air feel almost comfortable.

Shion was huddled in a long light blue coat. He had it for some time, the old fur lining the inside, now matted down, but just as soft. It covered his body, keeping him warm. The snow caught in the strands in his hair, and caused his cheeks to be red and raw. To protect his neck, he wore a white scarf, the ends against his chest and back.

Nezumi, on the other hand, wore a dark jacket that looked thin, but the leather was inflexible, making it seem less comfortable. He at least wore a scarf, gloves, and his regular boots for warmth. But, when Shion had first seen him, he shook his head, stating that Nezumi should get more layers on, to Nezumi's dismissal.

The town looked especially small today, not many people walked the streets, enjoying the heat inside their own homes. Since Christmas was over, many ceased a need to be out shopping. The many shops had snow on their windowsills and on the roofs.

They have been walking together for some time now, scourging the town, looking into the many shop windows, as well as looking for a place to eat. Nothing had caught their eye yet, but both were hungry and cold. But, they had reached a few complications.

"Shion, I'm hungry." Nezumi complained. He just wanted to sit down, enjoy some coffee, maybe kiss a bit, ignoring the possible stares. But, instead, Shion was enjoying his time, looking like a little child.

"I know, but look at all these shops." Shion smiled, the snow tickling his nose as he let out a short breath. All the sights, the smells from the café's, they were home to Shion. He spent so much time, running the streets, visiting many of the shops in his own hometown. This little town only reminded him of his own.

"Shion." Nezumi drawled, giving an irritated groan.

"You said I could pick the place, didn't you?" Nezumi was playing dirty, he knew, but he was hungry and cold. He wasn't much for sight seeing. He gave Shion a small glance, noticing how the boy suddenly looked a bit guilty.

"You're right, I took advantage. Where do you want to go?" Shion looked up at Nezumi, a slight grin on his face as if he was asking for forgiveness. Nezumi only blew out a hot breath and brought his hand up to Shion's cheek. He held his cheek in his palm for a slight moment, caressing the cold skin. Shion's head turned a bit, responding to the warm touch, feeling how Nezumi's fingers were soft and familiar. His eyes closed, letting him stand with Nezumi for a moment.

Nezumi let one of his fingers stroke his cheek, enjoying the quiet, before pulling back 4 fingers and gave Shion a slight, playful slap on the cheek before walking away, leaving a chuckle in the air.

"Nezumi!" Shion's eyes quickly opened, surprised by the small slap. He took his own hand to his cheek, trying to make up for the warmth that had disappeared. Nezumi just looked behind him as he was walking away.

"Let's go to that café, across the street." Shion gave Nezumi a small glare, before following behind, lightly jogging to keep up.

"What was the for." Shion wasn't really angry, just confused. He thought they were having a moment, which Nezumi promptly ruined.

"Oh, nothing." Nezumi replied in that irritating way of his. It was as if he knew he was right, and everyone else was wrong.

"Are you cold?"

"A lot of people like snow. I find it to be an unnecessary freezing of water." Nezumi responded.

Shion was about to counter back about the necessary of snow when his foot had hit a small curb. He lurched forward, feeling his body falling to the ground. A hand flailed out to catch him but his other hand was in his pocket. His red lips opened, about to scream out.

"Got you." A hand grabbed Shion's free one, pulling him out of his trip. Shion's body was jutted back into a standing position, taking a few steps to rebalance.

"You're too clumsy. Come on, let's get somewhere warm." Nezumi sounded like he was scolding Shion, his grey eyes piercing, but Shion has known him now long enough to hear the sliver of worry in his voice.

His boyfriend pulled him along the street, still clasped onto Shion's hand, their fingers intertwined, but it seemed that Shion only noticed. Even through his gloved hand he could feel Nezumi's touch as if it calmed him.

In the cold air, no one noticed Shion's blush, but he noticed how warm his face had suddenly gotten. But, he didn't make a move to pull his hand out of the grasp, and from underneath his scarf he could feel red slowly creep up his neck, turning into a full-blown blush.

They made it to the café without Shion tripping again. Entering the door, a little bell went off, marking their arrival. The place was small, but cozy. The smell of coffee wafted out the door and the meals looked fresh.

Once they were seated, both their mouths watered at the very thought of digging into a good meal. One gets sick of the food they sold at school quite quickly and this place sold more of a homemade meal.

After ordering, they talked with another, teasing until Nezumi brought up a touchier subject.

"So, Shion, I've noticed you haven't talked about Anne in some time." Nezumi pointed out, a small animalistic growl in his voice. He really hated that girl. He took a deep sip of his coffee, letting it burn his throat.

"Be nice. We are still friends, if that's what you are asking." He rolled his eyes. He just hasn't seen Anne in some time. He was usually busy with school or with Nezumi. He was often busy, which prevented them to meet up. But, he continued to text the girl, she didn't have much of anyone, and he wanted to reassure her, he was still around.

"I don't know why." Nezumi mumbled. Shion gave a short shake of his head. Shion wasn't growing slowly irritated, not enjoying how Nezumi was too rude. He didn't understand Anne, had no right to talk about her as he please.

"Because she needs me."

"Ah, I'm sure she can just find another male to hook up with." He countered, remembering the time he had found the girl half naked in Mitty's bed. It was no surprise that she got around. Shion didn't seem like one to mix with those types of people.

Shion frivoled his eyebrows, about to tell off the older boy for insolence, before realizing something he hadn't caught onto before.

"Oh, I get it." He said, stirring his hot chocolate, bringing his eyes back to Nezumi's.

"Get that she's a slut?"

"No. I get why she bother's you so much."

"If you say its jealousy, I'll kill you." Nezumi threatened through his teeth.

"Not jealousy. You can't understand how I can hang around her, because we are such different people. But, you and I, are the same thing. You are much different compared to me. And the opposite." Shion looked down again, letting Nezumi sink into the words. Was he right? Did he truly have a point? Nezumi had never thought about that before. And, what did it mean?

Sure, he had known from the beginning how much the two differ, it was obvious to the both of them, as well to those around them. Yes, it complicated their relationship, but they have gotten this far.

So, if it was the same as Shion's relationship with Anne, did it actually, secretly bother Nezumi that they differ so greatly? Nezumi may be criticizing Anne for sleeping with so many, but honestly, he was the exact same way. But, does that mean they are also the same?

"Shion… are you saying we are the same? Different, but the same?" Nezumi whispered, almost silently. He looked straight at Shion, wanting an explanation. Shion thought for a moment, before nodding his head.

"Maybe, this isn't the time for all of this." Shion suddenly had doubts, not knowing if this was the right place for this conversation, let alone, he didn't want to ruin the date.

"Continue." Nezumi pleaded, his eyes orbs. Shion had never seen him like this, his eyes flashing with a realization, more alive than they have ever been and it confused Shion. Why did this seem to shock Nezumi at such a revelation?

"What I'm saying is, you two are quite similar if you look deeper, into the details of yourselves. At the larger scale, you guys are hardly the same. For one, her southern accent and language is much different than how classical you speak. You don't care for much, but she cares too much. She is loud mouthed and holds her heart on her sleeve, but you, you are sarcastic and rude, as well as you keep your heart closed. Your pasts are very different as well." Shion took a breath, pausing for Nezumi to fully digest.

He wasn't looking at Shion, he was looking almost passed him as if his mind was whirling. After a few seconds, Shion continued.

"But, then, if you look into both of your actions, it is recognizable that something about you two, are the same. Take, for example, both of you has slept with quite a number of people." Nezumi almost began to protest, but Shion brought his hand up to protest what he was about to say.

"Ignoring that fact, take instead, the reason why you do. Although, it is pleasurable, both of you slept with others for a reason. Anne did it, because she was running away from what she was feeling. You are the same. You say you slept with so many, because, and I quote, 'because who cares'. And yes, I truly believe you didn't care then, but those who don't care, secretly do, but they are just better at hiding it than others. So, what were you running from? What were you trying not to feel?" Shion didn't expect an answer, and he didn't receive one either. Nezumi continued to stay silent.

"But, that's also not the only offense. You are a known actor around these parts; you take pride in your characters and in your acting. And, did you know that Anne, as well, is a known actress in her hometown. She chooses not to act at school due to how busy she is, but she enjoys it, just as much as you do. But, she acts for a reason, in fact, the same reason you do. Because, you get to be someone you 're not. Both of you are hiding from you true selves, almost like your ashamed to be yourself. The similarities are so closely related. And in that way, I think you secretly know it too, and that is why you dislike her so much." He let his words die as he finished his speech.

He may have analyzed the situation to far, but everything he had said made sense and even Nezumi, who tries to ignore everything that doesn't fit his taste, couldn't deny that maybe, Shion was right.

He hated that. He hated that he hadn't noticed it before, that such a silly boy had to point out his flaws to him. He knew his flaws, he thought he saw them better than anyone else, but Shion had only proved that he saw Nezumi's natural flaws for nothing less than real. And, knowing this killed him. It burned inside him and seared his skin.

The waitress came then, noticing the awkward silence, quickly dropping the food off at their table and made her way back to the kitchen.

Shion ate a bit of his food, hating how silent Nezumi was, but knowing the silence was needed for Nezumi to fully ingest what he had said. He hadn't meant to ruin their date, but Nezumi had looked so invested, like he was confused by Shion's words, but intrigued, too.

"I'm sorry." Shion finally said, worried that Nezumi was angry, or something. He shouldn't have said anything.

"You shouldn't be. You are right." It was his only response as he bit into his food, chewing slowly, his mind wandering again. It took only a few moments before he shook his head, his whole demeanor changing.

"It doesn't matter. Moving on, tell me how your mom is doing." He changed the subject, and Shion appreciated it. He told Nezumi about his mother, ignoring what had just happened, moving past it.

They would probably once again talk about it when Nezumi felt like it or the time felt much righter than here.

They ate together, talking about little things. Nezumi even chuckled at one point, plastering a smile back onto Shion's face. Shion knew what he had told Nezumi had never truly left his mind, but it was in the back of his mind, waiting to resurface when Nezumi wanted to start thinking about it again.

The two finished their meal, paying the bill, and walked out of the restaurant. Nezumi didn't talk as much as usual, but he was more normal than before. Shion wasn't quite sure what had happened, but he let it go.

They walked down the street together, their hands intertwined again, since the streets had become more packed since they had entered the restaurant and they didn't want to lose one another.

"Hey, Nezumi, do you-" Shion was caught off by a women running that had hit his shoulder, pushing him into Nezumi. Catching himself, his shoulder stung slightly and Nezumi looked behind him at the women running quickly, hardly looking back at the person she had hit into.

"Watch it!" Nezumi yelled after her. When Nezumi turned back around, he realized why she was running. One of the shops in front of them was on fire. The bright embers were bright against the snowy ground.

The flames were building as it engulfed a small building. Unfortunately, the building was connected to others, causing the fire to start to spread to the surrounding buildings. The building on fire had flames in its windows; parts of the wall were black and charcoaled, as well, as the parts of the wall were falling to the ground.

People were running, knocking on the other surrounding buildings, probably to warn those inside. There were others on their cell phones, hopefully calling for help. The once beautiful colors on the wall were now black and as the flames hit the snow, smoke erupted, but the embers were powerful, and simply melted the snow, clinging to the flowers and grass underneath.

Nezumi was mesmerized, enticed by the hot flames. The air was less chilled now, almost warm, even though he and Shion were hardly that close to the fire. But, the flames were dancing in his eyes and he just couldn't look away.

He knew Shion was tugging on his hand, trying to get his attention. Somewhere, in his mind he thought he heard Shion screaming his name but he wasn't paying attention.

The flames were enticing, calling his name, trying to pull him forward. He saw something in those flames, something so raw, and something that meant everything to him.

Ahhh, hello everyone! I promised you all that I would get this installment out, and look, here it is. I really didn't mean for it to take so much time, but I was busy, and trying to think about this fic after so long was really difficult. But, I hope, as I near the ending of this story, I can keep some of you entertained even through everything. Thanks for staying with me all of you.

I can guarantee the next chapter will not take as long as this one did to come out. I can make sure of that. And, I know there will be a couple more chapters till the end of this! So, don't worry!

Thank you all who have been so fucking kind and supportive. I love you guys so much.