[secret‡letters)

Temptation | iriaca

“Hyde!” I scream, my eyes darting all over the place. “Hyde!” In my daze I see a figure running towards me. I grab him. “Where is Hyde? Did you see him?” I yell, my own temples throbbing with my voice.

    The man shook his head feverishly, holding his bleeding arm. My doctor instincts took over, I took out the handkerchief I had and pulled it out over his wound. Tying a tight knot at the ends. I had to make this quick though, I could waste no more time. I had to find Hyde before he got hurt. “Go!” I hissed, my voice already becoming dry and raspy.

    I lounge forward, breaking into a run as the man left. The floor was marked with dirty, half dried blood footprints. There were some people lying injured. I think I should help them. I’m a doctor, doctors help people. But I didn’t stop for them. My feet, like they were drawn by some unexplainable energy. They wouldn’t stop for those injured. I ran along the hallway, searching for his familiar face. “Don’t be reckless, please don’t be reckless Hyde.” I remember telling him. He promised, kissing me on my face. I shouldn’t even be here then. It wasn’t so that I did not trust him. Hell, I’d trust him for anything. Maybe you could call it gut instinct, or the twitch of my left eyelid - the sign of a bad omen.

A series of sharp bangs pierced through, I feel my hair whip across my face. I turn, to see a man with his gun pointed in my direction. For a moment, it crossed my mind that they had recognized that I wasn’t one of them. And oh, hell, I wasn’t armed. I hear a yell from behind me, someone must have pulled the trigger, because the man in front of me doubled over and fell. I watched as the men took aim and fired at another.

Just then, I realized that they weren’t coming for me. Immediately, I ran in the other direction. Going to where the shrill sound of gunshots was becoming more, it was just deafening. I’m not used to this, my ears hurt. I wonder how Hyde and the others could live their whole life like this.

I stopped in front of a room. I can’t really make out what I see ahead, my head was already heavy with the weight of Hyde’s safety chained to it. But I think I see two figures, one on the floor and the other standing. I don’t stop to rationalize. Instinctively, I was running ahead. I think I’m as reckless as he is right now. Stopping to think would be too late now, I’m already running towards him.

I wonder since when had I been so reckless, so irrational. I’m a doctor; I’m calm, composed and rational. But things haven’t been the same, since I met Hyde. I know, they will never be the same again…

----------------------------

The door of the operating theatre swung open. The doctor and his nurses on duty jolted up as a handful of young men, dressed in black barge into the room.

    “Just what do you think you’re doing?!” The doctor yelled, “This is a hospital, you can’t just barge in like that!”

    “Says who we can’t, doctor.” A tall, goateed man stepped forward, summing the doctor up. “Bring him in.” He ordered.

    “Wait!” the doctor protested.

    “Shut up. All of you.” The tall man took out a gun from his pocket. He pointed it straight at the doctor’s forehead. The doctor raised his hands, not moving. “One bad move and it will be your last.”

    The doctors and nurses watched as another man came in, carrying a hooded person in his arms.

    “Put him down,” The man with the gun ordered, signaling for them to use the spare bed folded at the side of the theatre. “He’s shot.” He told the doctor, “I want you to take the bullet out.”

    “Sensei…” One of the nurses spoke, her voice quivering as she looked at the doctor. “The… patient… the patient’s blood pressure is dropping.”

    The dark haired doctor swore, turning back to the operating table. For a moment, he forgot he had a gun pressed against him.

    “Doctor.” The man jabbed the gun against his back. “Him first.” He gestured to his man.

    The life support of the patient on the table beeped, going slower with each second. “Look,” The doctor turned around. “My patient’s life is in danger as we speak. You’re in my hospital now, if you want me to save him, you do as I say.” He didn’t know if the man would oblige, but he had to take a shot.

    The man didn’t say a word. His glare bore into the doctor’s eyes from behind his tinted sunglasses. There were smaller cuts and wounds on his body as well as that of the other men in the room. They had to be from some gang. Slowly, he pulled the trigger. The doctor’s blood froze.

    “Ken!”

    The tall man turned with urgency to the spare bed, clasping the person’s hand with urgency.

    “Let him attend to his patient first…”

    “Alright then.” Ken relented, turning to the doctor. “Hurry up.”

    “Thank you. Now, wait outside. Him too. You’ll distract my nurses.”

    Ken wondered how much longer the doctor would take. His forehead was already beginning to gather in sweat from waiting. And the body he held in his arms, he was already starting to shiver. “Fuck!” He yelled. “See how much longer he’s going to take!”

    Instantly, a few of his men stepped up, pushing open the door of theatre.

    Just then, the doctor stepped out. And the light of the sign above flickered off. “Move aside.” The doctor’s voice was cold. These men had endangered the life of his patient. “Move.” He said again, paving a way for the patient to be wheeled out.

    Taking his time, the doctor removed his soiled gloves, putting on a fresh pair.

    “Doctor. You’re taking your damned sweet time.” Another man spoke up.

    The doctor sighed, “Bring him in.”

    Ken laid him carefully on the operating table. As he unzipped the jacket the man was wearing, its hood fell off. The doctor stared at the paled face before him, eyes half-lidded in pain. Surely, it was the most beautiful face he had ever seen…

    “Hurry, Doctor.” Ken repeated. “His bleeding won’t stop.”

    The doctor snapped out of his reverie. He nodded. “Out of the room, all of you.”

He watched as they left. Then turning his gaze back to the person on the table. Endowed with fair skin, heavily lashed eyes, a straight high nose and lush, tempting lips; the boy was a replica of beauty. Although barely a youth, he had a certain intriguing quality about him. As an oxygen mask was being strapped over the boy’s face, the doctor found himself reminiscing those about ancient art pieces. Those paintings though faded and vague, drew immense crowds to them. The paintings had a dreamlike appeal, so did the boy.

“Scissors.” He laid his hand out as his nurse passed it to him. Taking it, he cut open the boy’s blood soaked shirt. He had been shot in the hip. The boy let out a deep groan, hissing in pain when the doctor pressed against his wound. Applying pressure to it. The boy had slender, almost childlike limbs. Signaling his nurse for an anesthetic, he took the boy’s arm and shot it up. Slowly, the boy’s breathing steadied as he lost consciousness. Taking tweezer-like equipment from the nurses, he proceeded to remove the bullet.

A few hours later, he had done it; the operation was a success. He let the boy stay in his hospital, on one condition though, that his friends, those punks, do not so the least try to wreck havoc in the presence of his patients or nurses. Not in his hospital anyway. To his surprise, or not, they agreed. The boy had had to stay anyway. The bullet wound on his hip was just stitched up, any movement could cause the wound to open and bleed.

The familiar smell of burnt grass filled the corridor. He sniffed, his nose sensitive to this, being a smoker himself. He looked up from the file he held in his hands, putting his pen to his lip “And one more thing. No smoking in my hospital.”

Ken shrugged, with a smug pose; he put the cigarette out in front of him. “There you go doctor.” He hissed.

“Good. Now, if you all would so kindly wait at the lobby or go home.”

“What is this doctor?” Ken strode up to him.

He stood inches taller, the doctor had to lift his head to meet his eyes. He looked away, pushing his glasses up the bridge of his nose. “Your friend isn’t going to come to until morning. There’s no point staying here. Come back in the morning.”

“Fine.” Ken snarled, shoving his hands into his jacket pocket. The doctor could almost hear his teeth grit. “I warn you doctor. If you so dare even call the cops, I will burn your hospital down. Patients and all.”

“I think you don’t understand, Ken, or whatever your name is. Your friend is now my patient as well. I am a doctor, I will care for my patients, and this is no exception. The hospital is for them to rest, so I will not allow chaos to happen here.”

“Good.” Ken nodded. Turning around, he walked off, the sound of his boots clicking loud against the flooring. His men followed suit, turning to snarl or offer the doctor their most menacing look before they left.

    The doctor shoved his hands into his long white coat, making his last few rounds for the night. Softly knocking on the doors of the rooms as he made his checks on my patients. When he was done, he headed back to his office, packing up for the day. He removed his doctor’s garb and hung it over a low clothes post by the cupboard. Finally, he was done for the day.

    “Oyasumi sensei!” The nurses at the reception greeted as he passed them.

    The doctor smiled, “Oyasumi, page for me if anything crops up.” He removed his reading glasses and hung them over the collar of his black cashmere sweater.

    “Hai. Mata ashita ne!”

    “Ja, mata.”

    Once out of the building, as usual, he extracted the packet of cigarettes from his bag and lit one. Lavishing the smooth gray smoke that went down his throat, possibly staining his lungs further black. The doctor walked slowly towards his car, enjoying the cool night breeze in a stroll. Nearing the car, he reached into his pocket and got out his car key, fumbling for the button. The car lights came on with a small beep, the doctor opened the door and entered, inhaling a couple more times before he stubbed the cigarette on the floor and drove home. He marked his journey home with loud yawns and much rubbing of his temples. Today was a long day… he was glad to head home for quality rest.

--------------------------

    The dark haired man woke next morning with the raging ringing of his alarm clock. Slamming it against the table, he dragged himself up to wash up and get dressed.

    He arrived at the hospital’s reception promptly 10 minutes late.

    “Sakura Sensei!” The nurse at the reception called.

    “Hai?”

    “The man, one of those guys, he came to early this morning.” She said, concern and worry in her tone.

    “Ah, wakatta, I’ll check on him in awhile. Daijoubu.” Sakura said, smiling.

    He went straight to his office, putting on his coat and reading glasses, and then he left for the ward. Not knowing anything about the boy, not even his name, Sakura simply referred to him as “the beautiful boy”. And something about meeting this boy intrigued him; he realized that somehow or rather, he was looking forward to seeing him. Arriving at the fourth floor, the doctor gave a knock on his door and entered.

    He was up, leaning against the bedpost. His short dark hair fell over his face, partially shielding it, he felt so dreamlike, Sakura almost wanted to reach out and touch him, just to see if he was real. The boy’s wide brown eyes followed the doctor through as he entered. “Who are you?” He asked, his pale pink lips parting to speak.

    “I’m Sakura Yasunori, I’m your doctor-in-charge. And you are?” Sakura bent to look at the boy’s face. Through the light from the window, something in the boy’s deep eyes seemed to glisten.

    “Hyde.” He seemed to be deep in thought for while, before he brought his eyes to meet the doctor’s again. He had beautiful eyes; just as Sakura thought. He could faintly remember the shadow of his long, dark lashes curling atop his cheeks. But his eyes, how simply astounding, he believed that if he had to any further look into them, he would get swept off to another realm.

    “Is there something wrong Doctor?”

    “No, of course not, not at all.” Sakura shook his head. “I need to run a routine check up, so if you will.”

    He appeared hesitant as Sakura bent over him with the stethoscope. The doctor leaned over, unbuttoning a couple of buttons on his white hospital garb. He looked even more beautiful then he had yesterday, well, maybe it was the color that had returned to his cheeks. But anyhow this was close up. “Now breath in.” He said, with a hand supporting Hyde’s back, he placed his stethoscope over his chest.

    Sakura felt Hyde shiver slightly at the contact of the cold stethoscope on his skin, his fair and smooth skin. The boy’s back tensed at the cold touch of the stethoscope, “Relax a little, breathe in again.” He nodded grimly, taking a couple of deep breaths for him.

    “Alright.” The doctor smiled, helping him back against the pillow. He went over to the file attached at the end of the bed and scribbled some notes down while Hyde buttoned his top again. “Try not to sit for too long. We don’t want your wound opening up would we?”

    “Of course not.” He mumbled, “Doctor, my water jug’s empty.”

    “I’m a doctor not a nurse.” Sakura said with a grin on the face, “I’ll get someone to fill it for you.”

    “We didn’t trouble you too much did we? Yesterday?”

    At this he suddenly snapped, “Yes you did. Your friends almost cost the life of my patient. What were you guys thinking?”

    “Saving my life?” He answered and then he shrugged. “Anyway, nothing happened in the end, and you saved two lives.”

    Sakura was dumbstruck at how nonchalant he was about this. Hyde only sat and blinked at him. At that moment, the door flung open and Ken entered.

    “Hyde.” He said, casting a glance at the doctor. “Daijoubu?”

    Hyde nodded, “Doctor my water.”

    Sakura took the hint for him to leave and nodded. “Don’t take up too much time, he needs to rest.” He said before leaving the room.

    “Did the doctor try anything funny?” Ken asked.

    “What do you mean?” Hyde laughed, “No, he didn’t. He might if I strip.”

    Ken rolled his eyes.

    “Where are the boys?”

    “The boys, I’ve sent them after Masato and his bunch of punks.”

    “Those bastards.” Hyde cursed, feeling the gun wound on his hip. “They better watch out.”

    “I have something for you, if the doctor tries anything funny, or calls the cops, use it.” Ken said, taking out a black handkerchief from his coat.

    Hyde peeled it open; the silver revolver glistened under the sunlight from the windows. He smiled, running his fingers across the smooth surface. “I missed it.”

    Ken grinned.

    “Got a smoke?” Hyde asked, wrapping the revolver and placing it under his pillow.

    “The bastard doctor said we couldn’t”

    “Screw him.” Hyde smirked, reaching to Ken’s pockets.

    “That’s your job. Here, I’ll get it for you.” Ken said laughing.

    Hyde smiled, “We smoke wherever we want to.” Hyde watched as Ken lit one for him and one for himself.

    The taller man stood up, mock-saluting his best friend. “Get well soon Hyde, and come join us. I promise I’ll have Masato for you when you come out! But don’t take your own sweet time, I can’t wait to get my guns on him.” He said, mocking a salute and turning around to leave.

    Hyde grinned, biting the cigarette between his teeth. “Scram. He’s mine.” He said laughing.

----------------------------


A small knock sounded at the door. “Come in.” Sakura said, reading the file he had in his hands. He wondered who could visit him at lunchtime.

    “Hello doctor.”

    Recognizing the voice, Sakura looked up. “Hyde, what can I do for you?” He realized that Hyde was no longer wearing the hospital garb. In its place was a pair of flattering leather pants and a white shirt accompanied by a shiny black leather jacket. “You’re going home today.” The doctor said, pointing to Hyde’s clothes.

    Hyde nodded. “I’ve spent one week in this hell, it’s enough. I have something for you.” He walked over and placed a small envelope on the table. “Open it later.” He said, a smirk on his face.

    “What is it?” Sakura asked, toying with the packet in my hands.

    “My intuition.” He said, “Bye doctor.” Hyde lifted his hand for a little wave, his lips curling seductively as he smiled a little.

    Sakura ran a hand through his hair, the envelope lying harmlessly on the table in front of him. As a doctor, he was pretty used to patients giving him gifts and presents as a small appreciation. But he wondered why there was much hesitation on opening this one. “My intuition…” Hyde had said. Sakura could have sworn his eyes glimmered as he said that. He took a pen and poked at it, the flap came off the envelope. Taking a deep breath, Sakura peeked in. Green and white packet… “Seven Stars…” Sakura read slowly in broken English. Cigarettes. Sakura smiled, taking the packet out. The pack still had its plastic covering on, it was brand new. “How did he know I smoked?” Sakura mumbled, turning the packet around in his hands. Sakura squinted, there seemed to be some numbers written behind it. Sakura turned it proper, reading the numbers. It seemed like a phone number to him, written over the plastic cover with a thick black marker. Reaching for his notepad, he caught a glimpse of the clock on the wall. Hurriedly, he scrawled the number down, running for the meeting that he was already late for.

Hyde’s teasing face stuck with him as much as the phone number he left behind. He wondered what prank the boy was trying to pull. It was distracting him from the hospital director right in front. How the hell did Hyde know he smoked? Sakura picked up the pen he held in his hands, twirling it round and round in his fingers. Twirling… ‘Hyde’… Twirling… ‘Hyde’… Damn! Sakura slammed the pen down. The room immediately cut to silence. Sakura looked around, embarrassed.

He pushed his hair back, adjusting his glasses. “Gomenasai.” He lowered his head, gesturing the Director to continue…

The meeting ended two hours later, almost immediately, the Director pulled him aside. “Sakura-san, is anything bothering you?”

“Ah, no Sir.” Sakura frowned. “Just lack of sleep that’s all…”

“Ah, do take care.” The director smiled. “In this line, you can’t afford to be sleepy much.”

“Hai. Wakarimasu.” Sakura bowed apologetic. “Gomenasai.”

The Director left him standing with a small pat on his shoulder. Sakura managed a small smile, internally, he was cursing himself. Damn. “I need a smoke…” He mumbled, heading straight for the door. He hung his head low, too embarrassed to bring his eyes to meet his colleagues.

Sakura took out the packet of cigarettes from his pocket and lit one. Hurriedly putting the slim filter through his lips, he needed smoke to calm his senses. He took a deep inhale and waited. This was his first time smoking Seven Stars, not bad; the taste was neither too strong nor too light. He figured he could buy this brand the next time.

“Doctor!”

Sakura jumped. What was that he just heard? He turned about him, trying to find the source of the voice.

“Over here.”

Sakura turned towards a street corner. Hyde waved a little, his small hands peaking through from his jacket. He was wearing dark sunglasses and the bright sun cast a small orange glow against his short red bob.

Sakura strode over. “What are you doing here?”

Hyde shrugged; he was biting a cigarette between his lips. “Hanging around and waiting for you? I figured you’d want to ask me how I knew you smoked.” Saying so, the cigarette between Sakura’s hands caught his eyes. “So I was right.” He commented, smirking.

Sakura walked over and stood beside him, leaning against the wall as he did. “How did you know?”

Hyde lowered his sunglasses, his dark brown eyes summing Sakura up. He smiled a little then pushed his sunglasses back in place. “A lucky guess.”

Sakura nodded, looking straight ahead. “Do I have the smoker face?”

“If that’s what you call it. Hey, doctor,” Hyde turned to face him. “You’re off now?”

Sakura tilted his head to the side. “Why?”

Hyde shrugged. “I’ve waited long enough for you. Now I want your company.”

Sakura hesitated. Looking away, he inhaled on his cigarette, contemplating.

“I’m harmless doctor, I don’t bite, not like this anyway.”

“Eee… I suppose…”

“Let’s go then.” Hyde took a step forward, flicking his cigarette onto the floor. He stepped over and put it out, crushing the cigarette with the slim heel of his black leather boots.

“Give me a minute, I’ll pack up.”

Hyde nodded as he watched Sakura take a small run into the hospital.

“Where are we going?” Sakura asked as he came back out with his bag.

“Lunch? Do you have a car? Or shall we walk?” Hyde asked.

Sakura realized that the way Hyde spoke, was as if they had known each other for ages. His speech was stripped of all formality. He took a deep breath, “I have a car.” He gestured, walking towards the car park.

“Nice car doctor…” Hyde said as Sakura got the engine started.

Sakura grinned, stubbing his cigarette as he started the engine. “Thank you.”

“Hey. I don’t like to keep calling you doctor. Sakura. Will that do?”

Sakura shrugged. “Its fine.” Although he’d had to admit that this was the first a patient called him by his name. “Sakura’s fine…”

“Good.” Hyde smiled. Hyde had uneven teeth, and its edges peeked out whenever he smiled, adding points to his cuteness. “Stop looking at me like that Sakura. Look at the road when you drive.” Hyde added, giggling.

Sakura blushed, “Gomen.” He realized that Hyde had just made him blush on purpose. ‘Damn.’ “Where do you want to eat?”

“Um…” Hyde specified a small café near the bay. It seemed pretty far out, Sakura did not know why, but Hyde seemed pretty much bent on having lunch there.

They arrived a short while later. The humidity in the afternoon air had already started to clear and a small cool breeze was in the air. Both being smokers, the settled for the outdoors, sitting in front of a public television set the café had installed. Soon a waiter came to take their orders of 2 set lunches.

“Would you have preferred sitting inside?” Hyde asked, taking a sip from his glass of iced water.

“Its fine. You come here often?”

Hyde nodded, flicking ash into an ashtray on the checkered tablecloth. “Almost every other day. I always prefer to sit outside. The view’s better.”

Sakura raised his eyes in surprise. “Almost everyday? You live nearby?” He saw a glint of mischief in Hyde’s eyes. ‘Oh damn, I shouldn’t have asked’

“Why do you want to know where I live?” Hyde gave a small laugh, covering his mouth as he did so.

“I… just… well…”

“I know. I’m kidding. No, I don’t live in the area…” Hyde trailed off, making way for the waiter to set their food on the table.

They both dug into their food as soon as it was served, making simple conversation and watching television as they ate. Bit by bit, Sakura was finding it easier to talk to Hyde.

“How’s the food?” Hyde asked, chewing a slice of roast chicken in his mouth.

“Not too bad… still I don’t see why you like to come all the way here.”

Hyde smiled, gulping down some water. “Cheers.” He said, lifting to glass in a small toast.

Sakura grinned. “Cheers.”

When they had finished, they sat there smoking. Sakura watched as Hyde lit his cigarette, his own unlit one hanging from the corner of his lips.

“Here.” Hyde leaned forward.

“Ah. Arigatou.” Sakura grinned as he let Hyde light his cigarette for him. The distance between them close.

“Kuso.” Hyde swore. A gust of wind had whipped the fire off. Hyde leaned closer, frowning as he flicked the lighter, trying to light Sakura’s cigarette.

Sakura stared, he dare not move. Hyde was too close. Sakura could see the distinct length of his eyelashes as they shaded the curve of his cheeks. The wind caught Hyde’s hair as it brushed against Sakura’s cheek.

“Gomen.” Hyde muttered, removing the cigarette from his lips and still trying to flick the lighter on.

“Ahh… daijoubu…” Sakura could feel his cheeks get hot again. He had caught a whiff of Hyde’s hair. It might be his shampoo or whatever, but it smelt nice.

    Suddenly, a flick of hot orange burst out right in front of him. Sakura jolted back, his dark eyes wide.

    “Ah!” Hyde exclaimed. “Finally… Come here.” He beckoned as Sakura leaned closer.

    “Arigatou…” Sakura mumbled, leaning back against the chair. The close contact with Hyde was making him sweat.

    “You were looking at me like that again weren’t you?” Hyde asked bluntly.

    Sakura coughed, the smoke choked him. “Ah… Iie. Nothing like that.”

    Hyde shrugged. “If you say so…” Just then, his attention was drawn to the TV set. They were broadcasting the news of a fight that had broken out earlier in the morning.

    Sakura followed Hyde’s gaze. The volume was turned down low and he could barely make out what the reporter was saying. But as he had seen it, there had certainly been a fight, and there were casualties. Sakura turned sharply to Hyde, there was a small smile of content on the boy’s face as he watched the news, Sakura frowned.

    “You did it didn’t you.” Sakura snapped.

    Hyde shrugged. “I merely did what I had to.”

    “I don’t believe it.” Sakura backed up, turning to walk off.

    Hyde threw some notes on the table and got up after him. “Hey Sakura!”

    “How can you do something like this?!” Sakura yelled, pacing his footsteps faster. He felt disgusted that someone with such a beautiful face could be responsible for a cruel act like this.

    “Oe!” Hyde yelled. “Things happen okay? We do what we have to, that is our means of living. Either you’re victim or you’re victor. There is no other way.”

    “Those are human lives Hyde! You make it sound like some killing game!”

    “It’s not a game!” Hyde screamed. “Come with me.” He said, pulling Sakura by the arm.

    “I’m not going anywhere with you!”

    Hyde stopped, turning to glare at him. “You wanna give me the whole sermon on what’s right?! Then come with me!”

    He walked on, not caring for Sakura, only occasionally casting a look behind him to see if the taller man was catching up.

    “You should better have a good reason for your actions Hyde.” Sakura said flatly as they arrived at their supposed destination, a small white lodge that stood facing the bay.

    “Shut up and come with me.”

    The words on the front gate read “White Lodge Nursing Home” in big pale blue letters.

    “Why are we here Hyde?” Sakura asked, irritated. He didn’t see how a nursing home could have anything to do with the gang fight.

    An elder gaijin lady with silver rimmed glasses and a printed floral dress stood by the gate. Hyde went over and greeted her. “Holly-san” He took off his shades, bowing slightly.

    “Haido-san, here to see Tetsu?” The lady said smiling.

    “Hai. Where is he?”

    “He’s in the garden, and this is?” The lady turned to Sakura, inquisitive.

    Sakura bowed slightly as Hyde introduced him. “Holly-san, this is Sakura. He’s a friend.”

    They took a short walk as they spoke. “Oh, he’s here to see Tetsu too then?”

    Hyde just smiled, “Holly-san, we’ll make our own way there.”

    They lady bowed, “I’ll be in the office if you need me.”

    “Arigatou.”

    Hyde walked on, not saying a word to Sakura. They came to a small garden a while away from the lodge. The garden was filled with greens and beautiful blooming flowers. The spring breeze and air seemed to only enhance their vibrant colors. They finally came to a figure on a wheelchair, sited facing the bay. The figure’s short red hair danced with the wind as they whipped back.

    Sakura saw Hyde step forward. “Tet-chan?” Hyde knelt by the person, gently tucking his stray hair behind his ears. The redhead’s eyes were focused on something far off in the horizon. It was like he was unreachable, distant. Hyde took off his jacket and put it over Tetsu’s shoulders. “Be careful you don’t catch a cold out here, its pretty chilly.” Hyde said smiling. “Let’s go over there ne? I bet you haven’t taken a walk today…” Hyde said as he stepped behind to wheel Tetsu in the other direction. All these while, the boy on the wheelchair said nothing. He barely blinked, as if unconcerned about Hyde’s presence… it was like he couldn’t see Hyde or Sakura, or anything else for that matter.

    Hyde brought them to a small clearing with small stone stools. Wheeling Tetsu around to face him, he took a seat there. Sakura watched as Hyde gently took Tetsu’s hands into his own. “Are you cold?” Hyde asked, carefully rubbing the other’s longer fingers in his own hands. “Tet-chan?” Hyde’s voice choked, he cleared it instantly. Sakura could tell that he was holding back tears. “Ken isn’t here today. You know, he’s so busy lately, but don’t you worry, he’ll come see you sometime ne?” Hyde ran a hand through Tetsu’s red hair. The taller boy only blinked. “I’m here with a friend see? This is Sakura.” He said, pointing to Sakura.

    Sakura didn’t know what to say. He wasn’t even sure if Tetsu knew what Hyde was talking about. “Hi…” He said, rather dumbly.

    “Tet-chan.” Hyde turned to glance at Sakura. He wanted Sakura to look at this. “I have something for you.” He took out a small ring from his pocket. “I found it na? I told you I’ll find it for you.” Smiling, Hyde slipped the ring on Tetsu’s fingers. Tetsu’s hands were always so warm… He had no idea why it had become so cold now. Hyde bit his lip, fighting back the urge to cry. Then he reached into his pocket again. This time he took out a small plastic zip bag, throwing it unceremoniously on the stone table. “I thought I’d bring this for you too.”

    Sakura stepped back; he could barely belief his eyes. There in the zipper bag was a finger, a human pinky finger. The cut was still fresh; the blood had barely started to clot. Sakura turned away.

    “You like it Tet-chan? I got your ring back… Masato dirtied it, I’ve had it cleaned for you…” Hyde’s voice turned into a small hiss. Tetsu continued staring ahead of him. “Na, Tet-chan. You sit here for a while okay? I’m going to take a walk with Sakura. I’ll be right back ne?” Hyde stood up, bending to gently kiss Tetsu on the forehead. “I’ll only be awhile.”

    Hyde picked up the zipper bag and flung it into a nearby bin, catching up with Sakura.

    Hyde had barely opened his mouth to speak when Sakura grabbed him roughly by the shoulders. “What the hell did you do Hyde!” He shouted.

    Hyde closed his eyes, pushing Sakura away. He took a small breath. “That was Tetsu.”

    “I’m not asking that.”

    “Tetsu, Ken, Yuki and I, we’re best friends. We grew up together, went to school together, had fun together…”

    “You guys are in this together too?” Sakura snapped. He was usually calm, but all this was just too much to take.

    Hyde nodded grimly. “It started with me and Ken… And then Yuki. Tetsu never really wanted to. But we did everything together so; in the end all of us joined the gang. About a year ago… these guys, Kyota and his gang, they were hell bent on taking us down. The whole gang, all of us. They got to Tetsu, maybe because they knew that Tet-chan didn’t really like the whole fighting thing…” Hyde paused, swallowing. “When we got to him it was too late… Tet-chan… It was THEIR way of silencing him, so he would never tell what they did to him. They left him, beaten up, bleeding… The doctors who’ve seen Tetsu… they all say, the chances of him recovering are slim. He may remain like this forever.” Hyde pointed in Tetsu’s direction. “He’s never spoken a word, never smiled, never called my name, our names ever again! All because of what they did to him!”

    “Hyde…”

    “You should have seen the look on their faces when we confronted them. They were laughing! Can you believe it?! They almost killed Tetsu and they were laughing! Why Tet-chan!? Why did they do this to him?! Why him of all people…” Hyde sank to his knees, laughing and crying. “I swore to have revenge on whoever did this Tetsu. I will never let them off for what they did.”

    Sakura bent down, pushing Hyde’s sweat matted hair back.

    “That guy… Masato, the one that shot me. I swear he knows Kyota.”

    “Hyde don’t jump into conclusions…”

    “Conclusions?! I saw Tetsu’s ring on his finger! So I brought his finger back.”

    “How can you be sure it’s Tetsu’s ring?”

    “Tetsu’s ring… has our initials carved into the band.” Hyde looked straight at Sakura, the drying tears glimmering on his face. “It is Tetsu’s ring.”

    Sakura’s heart went out to both Hyde and Tetsu. “Hush now. You don’t want Tetsu to see you like this.”

    “You’re right.” Hyde straightened up, drying his face. “I have to get back to Tetsu.”

    Sakura at down on a stool and watched as Hyde spoke to Tetsu, telling him about what he had done today. The conversation was typical, a normal conversation between friends, just that Tetsu made no answer to anything Hyde said.

    Soon the sky had darkened and the stars came out overhead in place of the bright white clouds.

    “Saa, you must be tired!” Hyde said standing up. “I’ll take you back to your room ne? It isn’t good to stay too long out here at night, you might get a cold.” Hyde turned to wheel Tetsu back indoors, back into his room on the first floor.

    Once inside, Hyde pressed a buzzer on the wall. Minutes later, a couple of nurses came to help Tetsu into bed. Sakura knew that if Hyde had the strength to carry Tetsu to bed, he would, if he weren’t by a head or so shorter than the redhead, and smaller too.

    “Oyasumi Tet-chan.” Hyde bent to kiss Tetsu on the forehead as the redhead closed his eyes. “I’ll come again tomorrow.” He said softly.

    He stood up, flicking the night lamp off; he turned to leave with Sakura.

    “You come to see Tetsu everyday?” Sakura asked, as he fastened his seatbelt.

    Hyde nodded. “Whenever I can… can I smoke?” He asked.

    Sakura nodded, lowering the windows as he drove.

    Hyde lit a cigarette and inhaled deeply, running a hair through his short crop. “Sakura… Do you know… those homes… they’re for older people…”

    Sakura nodded, watching the moonlight against Hyde’s features. The petit man looked wearied, a clear expression of helplessness was on his face.

    “Tet-chan… Tet-chan is only 22…”

    The car fell silent for a while. Hyde looked away, brushing the tears from his cheeks; he hated to cry in front of others.

    “Tissue?”

    Hyde turned; Sakura was waving a piece of tissue in front of him. He smiled, taking it. “Thanks.”

    “Where do you live?”

    “Why ask?” Hyde mused.

    “I’ll give you a lift home.”

“Wanna come up for coffee?” Hyde leant against the frame of Sakura’s black car as he got off.

    “Ahh…” Sakura shook his head. Hyde’s lithe, shapely frame against the door was just distracting.

    “It’s just coffee… nothing else, I won’t try to pounce on you or something…” Hyde gave a small chuckle, throwing his tinted red hair back with the wind. “I don’t know how to cook or whatever, but my friends say I make excellent coffee…”

    Sakura sighed; he would just have to say yes then. Hyde seemed determined to have him up for coffee. Besides… It was just coffee, and coffee wouldn’t hurt. Turning off the engine Sakura got out of the car and locked it. “Okay…” He said with a small grin. “Your coffee better be good.”

    Hyde smiled, leading the way to his home. “That apartment, just across the street.” He said, pointing as they crossed over.

    The guard at the lobby greeted them with a small bow. Hyde merely nodded and walked on, while Sakura bowed. “Seems like you don’t like security…”

    “Security doesn’t live on the 8th floor Sakura, I do.”

    The elevator door opened with a small “ding”, revealing a narrow, darkened stretch of corridor. “The interior is old…” Sakura commented.

“As long as I can live in it, its fine.” Hyde said, throwing his keys up into the air and catching them again. He stopped outside the last unit on the floor and slotted his keys into the keyhole.

    The door of the unit across Hyde’s opened. A small stern looking woman stepped out into the hallway. “Haido-san!”

    Hyde stopped, scrunching up his face at her squeaky voice. Taking a deep breath he turned. “Yamada-san.” He addressed her.

    The lady noticed Sakura and glared at him, scrutinizing him from head to toe. Then she turned to Hyde, giving him the most disdainful look. “The rent.” She snapped, sending darts of her spit all over the place.

    Hyde frowned, fingering his keys in his hands. “I told you, I’ll pay up soon.”

    “You said that 2 weeks ago!”

    “Well where the hell do you expect me to get you the money! I just lost my job damnit!” Hyde screamed.

    The woman looked fearful for a moment, and the she regained her composure. “Alright, you have until my patience runs out. And I warn you, that will be fast. There are many others who want your unit if you so choose to leave.”

    Hyde nodded, “Anymore?”

    “And also! Tell your gangster friends to stop coming around here… They’re causing me a lot of trouble with the noise and mess they make. Last week it was the potted plants, the week before the lift… what’s next?!”

    “Oh shuttup you witch!” Hyde growled, “I pay you your stupid rent, you stay out of my business!” He snapped, dragging Sakura indoors and slamming the door shut.

    “Disgraceful! Just disgraceful!” The lady could be heard from outside.

    “Dozo…” Hyde gestured towards a brown, worn out sofa. “Look around as you please, I’ll go shower…”

    Sakura nodded, shoving his hands in his pockets. Hyde’s place was small, a single-roomed apartment with a small kitchen and living room of course. Hyde’s bedroom door was wide open so Sakura took a step in. Clothes and old newspapers and magazines were strewn all across the floor, along with used cigarette butts; Hyde wasn’t a very neat person, as it seemed. He noticed a small photo-frame on the bedside table and bent to examine it. The picture in the frame showed Hyde, Ken, Tetsu and another boy with a rather chiseled face. ‘He must be Yuki…’ Sakura thought, bringing the frame to his face. From how the four of them were laughing in the picture, they must have been so close… Feeling a pang of heartache for them, he set the picture down again.

Stepping back, his foot bumped against something. “Oww…” Sakura grumbled, rubbing his toe and bending down to see what he had hit. He hoped it wasn’t something expensive or important… A large black case sat on the floor right beneath the bed. Sakura fiddled with the lock, out of curiosity, he wanted to open it. He turned, Hyde was nowhere in sight. Taking a small breath, Sakura unlocked the case. His jaw dropped as it fell open. The case contained a small assortment of weapons; guns and knifes.

“Ah, so you found it.”

Sakura slammed the case cover back on and turned. Hyde stood at the doorway, his hair wet and dripping with water. A large white towel was hanging, wrapped around his small, white, otherwise naked waist. “Oh god Hyde, take that off!” Sakura belted out, turning away in shock.

“If you say so…”

Sakura turned, “…” The towel was on the floor, Hyde had removed it. Sakura stared at the fair, slim body displayed in front of him, the graceful embodiment of flawless smooth skin. “You…” He stuttered, pointing. Hyde’s fair slender legs stroked slowly against each other as he walked across the room, bending to pick up the stray magazines and newspapers, exposing his bare body generously to Sakura.

Hyde noticed Sakura staring at him and smiled. “What? You told me to take it off.”

“I… I… Not that way…” Sakura stammered, blinking. Hyde kept the small smile plastered on his face as he walked past Sakura, his wide orbs, glinting with mischief, focused on he taller man. ‘Damnit!’ Sakura thought. Hyde was baiting him, tempting him… He blinked again, looking away fast. ‘Look anywhere but there.’ He warned himself.

Hyde giggled, his lush voice traveling to Sakura’s ears. “I’ll put something on in a second.” Holding glossy magazines, shinny magazines against his bare chest. He took them and placed them on the bedside table.

Sakura glanced away, awkward and blushing.

Hyde opened his closet and pulled on a pair of black cotton pajama bottom. Picking up the towel, he draped it over his head, rubbing the ends of his hair into the soft material to dry them. “Okay, I’m dressed now, you can look. The coffee’s ready outside.” He gestured, walking out to the living room, his small feet padding softly against the worn out carpet floor.

    “You… live alone?” Sakura asked, trying not to focus on Hyde’s body frame. The skimpy get up of cotton pants and a towel wasn’t that much of a difference from his bare body.

    Hyde nodded, setting the coffee cup down. “I bought this with my first job, along with the guns.”

    “Job?” but somehow, he felt like he didn’t want to know.

    “Robbery, the year before. The jewelers at High Street? Surely you’ve heard.” Hyde mentioned causally.

    Sakura placed his cup down all of a sudden. “Listen Hyde… I have something on, I have to go…”

    “But you just got here,” Hyde said standing up.

    “I… really have to…”

    “If its about what I do for a living again…” Hyde said, frowning.

    “No. It isn’t.” Sakura lied, making for the door.

    “If you say so…” Hyde mumbled low. He didn’t really buy it though. He opened the wooden door for Sakura.

    “Bye.” Sakura mumbled, keeping his head low.

    “Bye…” Hyde waved, “I’d love to see you around some more Sakura.” He said, managing a smile, he closed the door.

------------------------


Sakura trudged indoors, closing the door behind him. It had been raining outside and his shoes were soaked. It had been two days since that incident at Hyde’s house. He doubted he would ever get to see Hyde again. Hyde was mystery, he was unpredictable… Hyde was… gorgeous… The shrill sound of the insistent ringing phone snapped him back to reality. He stumbled over, his head throbbing from the hectic day at the hospital. “Moshi Moshi…” He mumbled wearily. “Oh, its you honey…” Sakura smiled, it was Takako-chan, his fiancé. “No… I’m just tired, it’s been a long… week…” Sakura paused; he had failed to mention his meeting Hyde and all the things that had happened between him and the boy. “Nothing much… the usual…” In his head, incoherent thoughts of Hyde and his playful, teasing smile was playing and re-playing. Sakura rubbed his temples hard, willing them to go away. “Huh? Hai… I was listening… The wedding? Oh… the invitations… I’ll leave that up to you ne?” Suddenly, the doorbell rung. Sakura frowned, who could it be at this hour… “Ahh… Takako-chan, there’s someone at the door, I’ll call you again, jya… hai,” He planted a little kiss on the receiver. “Jya.”

    “Coming!” He yelled, as he took off his jacket. Cursing at his headache, he pulled open the door. “Who is- Haido?” Sakura couldn’t believe his eyes. “Why are you- What happened?” Hyde looked a mess, his hair was matted and messy from the rain and his clothes were disheveled. Sakura looked at him closely, there appeared to be bruises and cuts on the smaller man’s body and face. “Did you just get into a fight again?”

    “It’s raining. Don’t I get to come in?”

    “How do you know where I stayed?”

    Hyde pushed his way through into Sakura’s apartment, removing his drenched jacket. “I followed you.”

Sakura went to get a first aid box and a towel for Hyde. He noticed that Hyde had pulled along with him, a small luggage. “You’re moving out?”

“The witch kicked me out…” He mumbled, drying his hair and face. Hyde mumbled a string of curses, the bruise around his eye twitched at the contact of the towel. “Can I stay here?”

“What? Don’t you have anywhere else to stay?”

“Not after that damned woman kicked me out. Some punks went looking for me at my place, we sort of fought… and she… here I am.”

“Don’t you guys ever talk things out in a nice civilized manner?” Sakura gapped.

“No, we don’t. So?” Hyde asked, raising his face to Sakura’s.

“So… what?”

“Can I stay?”

“What about Ken’s place? Or Yuki?”

“Ken and Yuki stay together in a rented flat. He had a hard time getting approval for Yuki to move in, I don’t think his landlord will allow me… If you don’t want to, I understand…” Hyde stood up to leave.

Sakura pondered for a moment, before the sound of Hyde opening the door cut through his thoughts. “Wait.” Sakura stood up. He darted over to the door and held him back. “You’re bleeding.” He said. A stream of red was coming from an open cut on Hyde’s arm. Sakura sat him down, “I’ll bring in your luggage later, let me see that…” He took an antiseptic swab and swabbed the wound, dressing it.

“You let me stay?”

“Temporarily, you have to find a place of your own…”

Sakura frowned, staring at the beautiful features of the boy asleep on his bed. After he had dressed Hyde’s cut and made him some food, the boy had rather shamelessly stripped, again. This time giving the excuse that he was wet and had automatically taken over his bed, falling asleep almost instantly. Sakura figured he must be tired. Hyde’s soft pink lips were parted slightly; soft sighs of breathing came from the tiny form as he lay amongst the sheets, his body curled up comfortably. Sakura, taken in by the sight before him, was very much tempted to kiss Hyde. Bending down, he lowered his face to Hyde’s. Suddenly Hyde shifted, wrinkling his nose at Sakura’s breath on his face. Sakura’s eyes went wide like plates and he bolted back, panting. He sat very still and waited as Hyde turned over to the other side, his bob of dark, brown-red hair falling over his face. Sakura bent, only barely touching Hyde’s hair. The boy’s hair felt just as soft as it looked, Sakura thought as the silken strands sifted through his fingers… How beautiful… He pulled the covers higher over Hyde’s body. Sighing, he closed the door and went outside. He would have to sleep on the couch then…

Hyde yawned, propping himself up with one arm, he sat up in bed. He rubbed his eyes, pulling the covers tighter around his body. The morning air was getting awfully chilly. A small sound at the door alerted him slightly. Hyde pulled the covers up his chest. “Sakura?” He asked in a small voice, his head bent low, still trying to get the sleep out of his eyes.

He heard footsteps come closer. “Who are you?” Came a soft, female voice.

Hyde looked up groggily, a tall pretty lady stood in front of him. “And who are you?” He asked, pursing his lips. He pulled the covers over himself, and leaned forward, trying to get a closer look at her.

“I… I… Where is Sakura?” She stammered, backing away.

Hyde smiled. “Oh! So you’re Sakura’s friend. I’m Hyde.” He said excitedly. “I think he went to get us breakfast… he should be coming back soon… Maybe you wanna wait outside? I’ll get dressed and join you-“

“No thanks.” She snapped, disgust evident in her face. She turned away and took off.

“Hey!” Hyde called, dropping the covers as he heard the door slam shut. The cold chill of the morning air hit him and he immediately dived back under the warmth of the blanket. He scratched his head, thoughtful… “Strange…” He mumbled. “Oh well.” He said, shrugging.

A short while later, Sakura returned to find Hyde awake. “Why are you wearing my shirt?” Sakura asked, frowning.

Hyde frowned “my clothes are drenched.” He pointed to the heap of wet clothes lying in his opened luggage. “Yours are huge… but they would do” He mumbled, wriggling his hands in Sakura’s sweater. The sweater had fallen off his shoulder, revealing his well-defined, slim, smooth neck and shoulders. “Breakfast?”

Sakura nodded, taking the food outside. “Come on outside.” He said, stifling a laugh. Although Hyde had this tough act going, he just looked terribly small and too cute in Sakura’s clothes.

“Oh, Sakura, while you were out… A lady came by…”

Sakura dropped the food on the table and raced back into the room. “What?! How did she look like?!”

“Tall, slim, dark haired. Pretty lady.” Hyde said. He paused for a while and then giggled. “She thought I was your girlfriend. Is she your sister? She ran off so fast…” Hyde laughed, his eyes glistening.

Sakura’s mind was a whirl… a mad blank of incoherent thoughts. He mumbled slowly, reaching for Hyde. “God… Hyde… you have to move out. Now.” Sakura dragged Hyde into the room and pulled out his luggage. “Now.”

“You said I could stay…” Confusion flashed across Hyde’s face.

“I said wrong.” Sakura took out his wallet and stuffed some notes into Hyde’s hands. “Find yourself another place… and listen… Don’t ever come to look for me again, you understand?”

“What is this…” Hyde started, but the door was slammed shut against his face.

-----------------------

Sakura sat at the canteen in the hospital, feeling like he desperately needed a smoke. He remembered calling Takako and apologizing to her profusely, but she slammed down the phone on him countless times, and now, she had called the wedding off and shut her phone completely. And to make things worse, Hyde had been calling him, calling the hospital. So just yesterday, Sakura had his number changed, he also told the hospital not to let any calls Hyde made get through to him. He owed all this to Hyde. He cursed him internally; his life had been so all right, so perfect until Hyde came along with his little bait play…

Suddenly, a nurse burst into the canteen. “Doctor, you have a patient!”

Sakura snapped out of his thoughts instantly, and ran up with her, grabbing his stethoscope and buttoning his white coat. “Ken?” Sakura was alarmed as he saw the tall man against the wall.

“Doctor. It’s Hyde.” Ken rushed towards him; he was carrying Hyde in his arms. Sweat was embedded onto Hyde’s whitened forehead, there appeared to be vomit all over his clothes. Hyde coughed, vomit coming out of his pale lips. He shivered badly, his eyes unfocused.

“What the hell happened?!” Sakura yelled, paving a way for Ken to bring Hyde to emergency. A few nurses came out and placed Hyde on a stretcher and wheeled him into the emergency room. “Wait here.” Sakura yelled to Ken.

A few tedious hours went by and then the door opened. Ken stood up immediately, rushing to the door. “Doctor.” He greeted as Sakura exited. They watched as the nurses wheeled Hyde into another ward.

“An assortment of sleeping pills and alcohol…” Sakura said flatly, “He just had his stomach pumped.”

Ken nodded, “Then he’ll be okay?”

“Ken!” Someone yelled from the back.

The goateed man turned, “Yuki. Hyde’s okay.”

Yuki nodded, noticing the doctor. “You must be Sakura… Hyde couldn’t get through your phone…”

“I had my number changed. Look if this is his suicidal way of getting to me, it’s not gonna work.”

Yuki smiled, “Doctor, don’t be too mean to Hyde, he was just trying to sleep.” He just said. “Ken.” He said, turning to Ken. “We have to go, we have business.”

Ken nodded. “We can trust Hyde in your hands can’t we doctor?”

Sakura nodded, “My nurses will take care of him.”

The small figure on the bed stirred, rich brown eyes opened up to the unfamiliar surroundings of the hospital ward. Hyde lifted his hand to gently rub the clouded vision away from his eyes. He couldn’t recall how he came here and his stomach held a strange, empty feeling. Everything was the same; this must be the hospital Sakura worked in. Thinking that, a frown set itself into his brows, darkening his doll-like features. That night, Sakura had shoved him money, asking him to use that to look for a place to stay. ‘What does he think I am…’ Hyde thought. And when he called him, countless times, he could not get through. Eventually the doctor even went to the means of cutting off his phone line. A tickling feeling in his dry throat caused him to cough. Hyde shut his eyes at the painful feeling of the dry cough against his un-moistened throat.

A small knock sounded on the door, Hyde choked back his cough. “Dare?” He asked as the door opened.

A tall figure of dark, raven black hair came through. Sakura. The doctor pulled his glasses from his collar and slipped them on, taking the file from the end of the bed. “Haido-san seems like you’re up and awake.” He said coldly, raising an eyebrow.

Hyde noted that he had called him “Haido-san” instead of the usual Haido. He frowned, feeling angrier by each second.

“Might I advice you to take your life seriously, Haido-san…” Sakura trailed off, scribbling something against the crisp white paper clipped onto the file. “You shouldn’t think of endangering your life over trivial matters, you should learn to cherish life more.”

Hyde said nothing; he merely looked away, shadowing his face behind his dark bangs. Somewhere inside Sakura’s stomach, the doctor felt something knot up. It felt as if it was uncomfortable to see his desired reaction on Hyde’s porcelain face. He too said nothing as he turned to leave the room.

Hyde struggled emotionally. He knew Sakura wanted him to get out of his life, to stop hanging around him… but what about him? He’s never the type to let others have their way than his; he always had things done his way. “Doctor.” Hyde said, stopping Sakura. This time, it wasn’t going to be different. “It hurts…”

Sakura went by his bed, “Where?” He said, taking out his stethoscope and feeling Hyde’s forehead.

Hyde unbuttoned a few buttons on his loose white top. He took Sakura’s hand and looked into the doctor’s worried eyes. “Here…” He said, placing Sakura’s hand over his heart.

Sakura felt a chill run down his spine as his hand came in contact with Hyde’s cool skin. His palm rested atop, feeling the rise and fall of Hyde’s breath and the clear beating of his heartbeat. Suddenly he snatched his hand away, bringing the stethoscope against Hyde’s chest. “There’s nothing wrong.” He said, placing it against various different spots on Hyde’s chest.

Hyde frowned, he tugged at the stethoscope, pulling it away from Sakura’s neck, he threw it against the ground. And reaching up, in one strong tug, pulled him down, pushing his tongue into the doctor’s throat. Sakura struggled to leave, trying to push Hyde away. Hyde kept a firm grip at the back of his head, not allowing him to do so. Unwillingly at first, he tasted the tongue inside his mouth, moistening Hyde’s dry throat and mouth with his tongue.

Hyde moaned, arching his back to meet Sakura halfway. Sakura’s hands had moved behind him, holding him up by the head. Hyde sighed as Sakura’s lips left his, tracing down his neck. Hyde tightened his grip on Sakura’s hair, grabbing it in bunches. Sakura lifted Hyde’s shirt from the back, running his hands against Hyde’s tightened back muscles.

“Mmmm…” Hyde slipped a hand under the doctor’s shirt, rubbing his sweaty palms against Sakura’s strong stomach.

Suddenly Sakura snapped his eyes open. Feeling the absurdity of his emotions hitting him. “No!” He cried, breaking away.

Hyde sat shocked, his eyes fixed on Sakura. His chest heaving as he tried to regain his calm. His shirt was partially undone and it fell off his shoulder, his hair was messy and disheveled.

“No. We can’t.” Sakura ran a hand through his hair, arranging his clothes back in place.

Hyde watched as the taller man turned to leave. A faint pang of heartache tugged at his chest. “Sakura…” He whispered, closing his eyes.

Sakura stopped in his steps. ‘Hyde…’ They were in the hospital, he was a doctor and Hyde was his patient. Nothing else. They should never… In a spur of the moment, Sakura turned back, pulling Hyde’s body into his arms. He locked his lips with the unsuspecting boy’s kissing him, eagerly; he wanted to taste everything of Hyde.

“Sa…ku…ra…” Hyde panted, his breath lost between kisses. “Ahh…” Hyde moaned as Sakura began licking his neck. “Mmmmm…. Bathroom…” He mumbled, his mind beginning to spin with the heat that he felt. “Bath… Ahhh… bathroom…” He whispered, before taking Sakura’s lips into his.

Sakura got up, carrying Hyde in his arms, kissing him. The smaller boy had his eyes closed, grabbing tight onto Sakura’s clothes. They stumbled over into the bathroom, locked tight in a series of kisses. Sakura fumbled with the lock, only managing to press it shut.

Hyde grabbed a bunch of Sakura’s hair and tilted his head. Delivering a lick across Sakura’s neck. “Hyde…” Sakura breathed, his voice low and husky. Hyde smiled; he planted a series of small, fluttery kisses against Sakura’s neck. “Hyde…” Kissing his lover, he took some of Sakura’s flesh into his mouth and bit him hard. Sakura yelped in pain.

“Shhh…” Hyde whispered, pressing his lips against the reddened skin.

Sakura couldn’t take it any longer, he wanted more of Hyde. He pressed Hyde against the wall and began kissing and licking his collarbones. Hyde gasped, the electricity of Sakura’s lips against his flesh shocking him. “Sakura…” He whispered. “Mmm…” Sakura’s hand went over Hyde’s hardened arousal, stroking him firmly. “Nnn…” Hyde gasped, panting harsh, he backed against the shower tap.

A burst of hot steaming water rained down on the both of them. Drenching them completely in but awhile. Hyde circled his legs around Sakura’s, twining them together. “Ahh… Atsui…” He breathed; the air in the shower was becoming humid. “Sakura… Take it off…” He cried, tugging from Sakura’s heavy, water soaked clothes.

Without hesitation, the doctor stripped himself of his clothes, throwing them into a small pile by the door. He looked down at Hyde, who was leaning against the wall, water falling over his face, body and clothes. He was soaked through too, making his white clothes transparent, revealing his fair and inviting body beneath.
Smiling, Sakura undid Hyde’s shirt and pants. Hyde waited impatiently, licking Sakura’s earlobe as the dark haired man removed the uncomfortable clothing between them. Sakura barely had the chance to put Hyde’s clothes aside before Hyde’s pulled him down against him, rubbing his delicate body against Sakura’s. Sakura held Hyde tight, licking Hyde’s navel slowly. “Uuh…” Hyde moaned, panting with pleasure. “Ahhh… Sakura…” He grabbed Sakura’s hair. Sakura’s licks went lower, circling Hyde’s tiny hips, right down to his most delicate parts. “Saku… Ahh…” Hyde breath picked up and Sakura licked him further, his tongue traveling down Hyde’s hardened arousal. “Sakura!” Hyde gasped, pulling at Sakura’s hair. Sakura’s movements beneath him was becoming more faster. Hyde could feel his head lighten as the blood rushed to his arousal. He bit his lower lip. “Sakura… don’t… don’t stop…” He whispered aloud.

    Sakura pulled away slightly, Hyde had his eyes closed, with a look of sheer intoxication on his face. Straddling Hyde atop him, Sakura gently pushed a finger into Hyde. Hyde’s grip on him tightened as he let out a small whimper of pain. “You want more Hyde?” He asked, knowing the answer already.

    Hyde nodded, the sweat on his body mixing with the hot water falling atop. He gasped as Sakura pushed another finger in. After a few seconds, Sakura pulled his fingers out. Pushing Hyde’s hair back to calm him a little, Sakura pressed his manhood against Hyde’s opening. As he had felt it, Hyde was tight and taut. Without warning, Sakura pushed his arousal into Hyde. The petit man screamed as he felt his lover trust inside him.

    “Ahh… Iie!” Hyde screamed, his small body stiffening and shaking. “Iie… Sakura!!!” He shrieked, digging his nails into Sakura’s back.

    Seeing Hyde in such pain, Sakura began to slow down gradually. The smaller boy’s raged screaming hushed into small gasps of breathlessness as he cried.

    “Sakura… Saku… No… Don’t… Tomaranai… tomaranai…” Hyde hissed, biting his lower lip in pain. “Don’t stop…”

    Sakura stroked Hyde’s face and tightened his grip on him. “Hush…” He whispered, picking up speed.

    Hyde writhed in pain, letting out a deep growl. The water stung at his torn opening and Sakura’s strong thrusting was making him go dizzy. But he didn’t want Sakura to stop. He felt Sakura go faster and faster at him. “Saku… don’t’ stop…” He panted badly, the breath refusing to fill his tired lungs, he felt increasingly hot and it was like he was unable to hold this growing surge inside him. “Sakuraa… Ahhh!” Hyde cried out, coming with a loud throaty scream along with Sakura.

    Sakura fell atop Hyde, his tensed body relaxing. He stroked Hyde’s sweat covered face, gently pulling out of him. Hyde had his eyes closed, his legs stained with the same sticky liquid that was on Sakura’s legs, another liquid of dark red streaming out along his thighs.

    “Hyde…” Sakura whispered, taking his lover’s worn out form into his arms.

Hyde’s eyes were half-lidded as he smiled at Sakura. His small tight chest heaving as he gasped between breaths. “Atsui…” He whispered, pressing his cheek against Sakura’s wet chest. Sakura bent to kiss Hyde’s lips. Hyde’s cheeks and chest was flushed a deep shade of pink, Sakura stroked away at his hair, pushing it back, away from Hyde’s face. Hyde looked up into Sakura’s face, reaching up to touch Sakura’s drenched, black hair.

They sat there like that for a while; basking in the sweet, musky scent of sex locked in with the moisture that had gathered in the small bathroom, water running down their entwined bodies. Sakura got up, reaching for a face towel hanging by the wall. He soaked it in water and brought it down to Hyde’s legs. Hyde hissed sharply at the pain of the contact, trying to move. “Itaii…” He complained, tears coming down from his jeweled eyes again.

“Shh…” Sakura silenced him with a kiss. Gently, he wiped the liquid and blood off Hyde’s slender thighs and legs. “Don’t try to move, it’s gonna hurt…” He said, proceeding to clean himself off.

Hyde nodded, closing his eyes. The pain was so bad that he felt he could pass out any moment now. He felt Sakura’s strong arms lift him up. “Sakura…” He whispered, his vision hazy. “If I pass out… car…ry me… to bedd…” Hyde trailed off, passing out in Sakura’s arms.

Using a clean towel, he carefully dried Hyde. He took a fresh pair of clothes from the cupboard outside and dressed Hyde in it. When he was done, he carried the wan figure to bed.

The morning light tickled his face, causing him to want to turn away. Pain flashed through his body, Hyde whimpered and curled up tight in a fetal posture. “Ahhh…” He groaned, not daring to move any further. The sex had been wonderful, he could still feel Sakura’s warmth inside of him, but the aftermath was bad. Painful. His pumped, empty stomach still felt terrible, the only probable good thing about his body right now was the smell of the night before. Slowly, Hyde relaxed his body, shifting back to his sleeping position. He smiled content to himself.

Just then the door opened with a small knock. “Good morning…”

Hyde brought his eyes to the door. Sakura stood in by the doorway, his reading glasses on his face as he smiled at him, a small plastic tray in his hands. “Hi…” He whispered, a smile on his face.

Sakura turned to close the door, checking if there was anyone else near Hyde’s ward. He walked towards the bed, placing the tray on the movable table that was attached to the bed. “I brought you something to eat,” He whispered, lifting Hyde’s head for a deep kiss. Hyde moaned softly, his eyes closed.

“Really?” Hyde teased, mischief in his eyes. “I can’t have anymore of that, not right now…”

Sakura laughed, pointing to the covered plate and utensils atop the tray. “You’re gonna go home tonight…” Sakura said, sitting by Hyde. “Do you have a place to stay yet?”

“I haven’t scolded you for that!” He snapped, “You shoved me money. What do you think I am, a damned whore?”

Sakura’s face softened. “I’m sorry… I had to clear things up with my fiancé…”

“She’s your fiancé?” Hyde’s eyes went wide in disbelief.

“Was.” Sakura sighed, sitting on the edge of the bed. “The wedding’s called off…”

“Sou… Gomenasai.” Hyde mumbled, lowering his head.

“It’s okay, silly.” He smiled, tucking Hyde’s hair behind his ear. “Do you want to stay at my place?”

“You bet, I have nowhere to stay now, doctor… but… I don’t think I’ll be able to walk…”

Sakura laughed, recalling the events last night… they had risked being found out and had sex in the hospital bathroom. Well, that’s what happens when neither of them could control their outburst of emotions. He didn’t know, until last night that he had already fallen so deeply for a person whom he knew barely a fortnight ago. “I’ll come by you when I knock off, we can go together.”

Hyde smiled, nodding. “Ne… Do you have… erm… painkillers for you know, there?”

Sakura turned to the door again, no one was outside. “Hai, I do.” With a little smirk upon his chiseled face, he bent down, lifting Hyde’s shirt and lowering his pants just a little to reveal his fair, slender hips. He planted a soft kiss just above Hyde’s most intimate parts, feeling his lover’s arousal rise just a little.

Hyde giggled, it tickled and it hurt when he tensed at the contact of Sakura’s lips on his skin. “You’ve just made it worse, and you’re a doctor you should know.”

“Oh, excuse me for being inexperienced.” Sakura whispered, stroking Hyde’s abdomen as he leaned forward to claim Hyde’s supple lips and began nibbling and sucking at it.

“The door’s not locked Sakura-sensei.” Hyde warned, a mischievous grin spreading across his pretty face.

Sakura sighed, drawing back and putting Hyde’s clothes back in place. “I’m not letting you off tonight. And remember to have something to eat.” He said, pointing to the food on the tray as he turned to leave.

----------------------

    Sakura carried Hyde into his house, busy searching for his lover’s lips in the dark; he groped the wall for the light switch.

    “Don’t…” Hyde whispered, his moist lips against Sakura’s ear as he broke the kiss. And then he went at Sakura’s lips; twining his smaller hands with Sakura’s large warm ones, pulling his lover’s hand away from the switch.

    Sakura let out a deep moan as he kissed Hyde all the way into the bedroom, bumping into various objects in the dark. Squinting for the bed, he gently laid Hyde down on it, climbing atop him. He tilted Hyde’s chin, and began kissing Hyde’s graceful, slender neck, bringing his kisses lower, his passion and pleasure hormones raging with each contact between their hot bodies. Just as Sakura promised, they were in for another night of sex.

-----------------------

Hyde awoke the next morning to the shrill ringing of his cell phone. Turning to his side slowly, he groggily picked it up. “Moshi Moshi…” He mumbled. The person on the other line rambled off, saying something that Hyde didn’t really understand. “Uhh… Slow down… who is this?”

    There was a short pause as the person stopped for a breather. “Haido, it’s me Ken.”

    “Ken? Where are you? Whose cell are you using?”

    “Doesn’t matter Hyde. We’ve found Kyota.”

    Hyde fell silent, his hands tightening into fists at the mention of that name. Kyota… the man that hurt Tetsu… Kyota… “Where. Is. He.” Hyde said, his voice low. He turned to Sakura, he was still sleeping, he didn’t want to wake him.

    “We’ll meet at the train station. Get ready and come down.”

    “Wakatta.” Hyde mumbled, hanging up.

    “Sakura…” Hyde whispered, stroking his lover’s hair softly. “Sakura…”

    The taller man stirred, semi-smiling at Hyde. Hyde smiled, planting a kiss on Sakura’s lips. Quietly, Hyde got out of bed. His legs and body were still sore and numb. Bending down slowly, occasionally checking to see if Sakura had woken up, he pulled his luggage out from under the bed and pulled out a loaded silver revolver he kept hidden under his clothes. Hyde took out another smaller bag containing spare bullets and placed both items quietly on the dressing table. Careful not to cause himself unnecessary pain, he pulled on his pants and a clean black turtle neck top. Feeling his pants pocket for the switchblade he always carried, he stuffed the gun and bullets into a jacket and put it on. Keeping his footsteps silent, he scribbled a note on a post it and left it by the bedside table and left.

    Sakura awoke slightly into the afternoon, with the cool spring breeze on his face. He sat up, taking a small thin band from the bedside table; he pulled his dark hair into a ponytail. “Hyde?” Hyde wasn’t there; a mess of crumpled bed sheets was in place of the tiny body. There was a small note on the table, Sakura stretched to read it. So Hyde had gone out. Sakura smiled, leaving the post it back on the table. Looking at the time, he got up to shower. He would have to be in the hospital for work in another hour.

    That day in the hospital had been hectic. He had barely been able to sit down for a cup of coffee since the afternoon when he arrived. Now, many hours into the darkened night, he still couldn’t do so. Sakura walked briskly along the whitewashed hallways, there seemed to be extremely many patients today. There seemed to have been a bad accident at the highway, resulting in many casualties. Walking, Sakura fastened his coat; he’d just stitched up a cut on a forehead of a little boy who had fell while playing. He sighed, parents should really be more careful with their kids. Sakura was getting closer to the emergency level, there seemed to be quite a huge commotion coming from behind those doors.

    “Let me see him!!!” Someone shrieked.

    Sakura picked up pace, was someone harassing the nurses again? Things like that happen often in a hospitals, sometimes, patients’ closest relatives can’t control their emotions when they see their loved one hurt. “What’s going on?” Sakura yelled over the volume as he pushed the door open.

    “You touch me I’ll shoot you!!! Let me see him! I know him damnit!!”

    Sakura pushed through a small crowd. One frightened nurse grabbed him. “Sensei… they… they have guns…”

    Sakura frowned, “Hey! Put that… Hyde?!!”

    Hyde stood in the middle of the crowd, blood all over his face and clothes. His tiny body shook as he held a gun tight in his hands, pointing it at the nurses. “Take me to fuckin’ see him!!!” He screamed. Sakura’s eyes darted from him to a bunch of young men in the corner, armed with guns as well. He noticed Yuki sited amongst them, the young man’s face was bruised badly and worry was evident on his face. “Where is he?!” Hyde screamed, gesturing his friends to move forward with their guns. “Where the hell is he?!!!”

    “Hyde!!!” Sakura ran over.

    “Sakura!! Sakura!!” Hyde shrieked, he dropped the gun, grabbing Sakura with urgency. He pulled Sakura to a corner. “Ken!!” He screamed, discomposed. “Ken!! You have to save him!!”

    He led Sakura towards Yuki; Yuki was sitting against the wall with Ken on his lap. The taller man was unconscious, his sweat covered face pallid, an evident gunshot wound on his chest. Sakura swore, bending down and feeling for a pulse. Ken’s heartbeat was small and his body was going cold. “His pulse is weak, take him inside!” Sakura yelled, using his hands to pave a way for his nurses to get to Ken.

    “What are you waiting for?!!” Hyde shrieked, picking up his gun, he pointed it at them. “Take him inside!!”

    “Haido, calm down.” Sakura put a hand on his shoulder. He turned to the frightened nurses, “it’s okay, I know him. Make way please.”

    The nurses wheeled Ken along the corridor, running with each step. Hyde followed, running behind. Ken was wheeled into the operating theatre, and the doors shut at Hyde’s face. “Ken!!!” Hyde yelled, pounding his fists against the door. “Ken!!”

    “Haido!” Yuki ran up and pulled Hyde back with force. “Calm down, the doctor will attend to him!”

    “Doctor…” Hyde looked confused, and then he focused on Sakura’s approaching figure, “Sakura!” He broke out of Yuki’s grasp. “Sakura,” He grabbed Sakura’s hands, staining Sakura’s coat with blood and dirt. “Save Ken, you have to save Ken!!!” He screamed, shaking Sakura.

    “Haido, I will do my best, just… calm down…” Sakura let Yuki pull Hyde back, disappearing behind the closed doors.

    Hyde sank into the sets outside the theatre; his eyes clouding with tears as he absently watched the light overhead the theatre door come on. “Ken…” He muttered, sobbing.

    Yuki sat beside him, while the rest of their companions, took different places. They were all worn out and tired, defeated. Yuki put an arm on Hyde’s shoulder, squeezing him a little. “Ken will be fine Hyde…”

    “Yuki…” Hyde mumbled, shaking his head. “Yuki… I… I cannot loose Ken…” He mumbled, gripping the cold silver of his gun tighter until it numbed his sweaty hand.

    “I know… neither can I Hyde… Neither can I…” Yuki whispered, his cut cheek twitching. The four of them had come this far together… He knew that Hyde bore it heavily that they were unable to protect Tetsu and took it his responsibility to protect all of his friends. Yuki knew that in their way of living, protection was futile… But frankly, he too, was afraid of the thought that he would loose another friend again… ‘Please don’t…’ He thought, closing his eyes.

    A few hours had gone by and Hyde was getting impatient, he felt like he was going to explode in worry. He got up, slamming his hand against the door. “Sakura!!!” He yelled.

    “Haido!” Yuki stood up and pulled Hyde back onto the seat. “Stop it! Calm down!”

    “They’re taking too long!” He cried, burying his face in his hands.

    Just then the light above the theatre went out. Yuki looked up, “Haido, they’re done.” He said.

    The door of the operating theatre opened. Sakura walked out, his heart heavy.

    “Sakura!!!” Hyde dashed towards him grabbing by the arms. “How is Ken?!”

    Sakura lifted his eyes, looking at his lover’s worried face. Those wide eyes rimmed red with tears. “Haido…” he started, brushing Hyde’s tears.

    “How is he?” Hyde screamed, shaking Sakura harder.

    “Haido… I’m sorry…”

    Hyde’s hands dropped to his sides, he stood in shock. His ears unbelieving to what he had just heard. “No…” He sobbed.

    “Haido… he lost too much blood… I…”

    Yuki stood against the wall, his face pressed against it, tears scorching the sides of his cheeks.

    “Uso!” Hyde’s scream broke the silence. “Usotsuki!!” Hyde charged towards the door. “Uso!!” He screamed. “I want to see him! Ken!!!” Hyde screamed, “Ken!!!”

    Yuki dashed towards Hyde, holding him back. “You can’t go in Haido!”

    “Yuki!! Ken’s not dead!! He isn’t! He won’t leave us! I want to see him!!!”

    “Haido!!! Calm down!!” Yuki yelled, holding Hyde down.

    “It’s you!! Its all your fault!!!” Hyde charged towards Sakura in fury, awarding him with a vicious slap across his face. “It’s all your fault!!!”

    Sakura’s cheek stung, but it didn’t hurt, as much as his heart did, seeing Hyde like this. He kept his head lowered as Hyde threw punches at him, screaming and crying.

    “Why?!!!” Hyde screamed, his body shaking. “Why!!! Why couldn’t you save him!!! Why!!!” Tears ran down his cheeks, his voice cracked and his throat hurt, but still he continued screaming. “Why couldn’t you save him!!! It’s all your fault!!!” He screamed.

    “Haido!” Yuki grabbed Hyde by the arm. The smaller man was kicking the doctor, trying to scratch him with his nails. “Haido stop it!”

    “I hate you!!!” Hyde shrieked, “I hate you!! Give Ken back to me!!! Give him back to me!!!” He screamed as Yuki pulled him away, keeping his grip firm on Hyde’s tiny arm. “Give him back to me!!! Go inside and save him!!! Save him!!!”

    Yuki pulled Hyde a save distance away from Sakura, apologizing to the doctor. “I’m sorry… it’s just too hard for us…”

    “I… I understand…” Sakura muttered, looking at Hyde.

    “You useless bastard!!! Give him back to me!!!! Ken!!! Ken!!!” Hyde screamed in Yuki’s arms. “Why can’t you save him!!!! Why couldn’t you!!! I hate you!!! I hate…” Hyde suddenly stopped, his frail figure collapsing in Yuki’s arms.

    “Haido!” Yuki screamed, supporting him.

    Sakura ran over and took Hyde into his arms, bringing him to an empty ward.

    Yuki sat and watched as Sakura put the stethoscope over Hyde. “How is he?” He asked rubbing his temples.

    Sakura took a deep breath, stroking Hyde’s face. “He’s okay… his body just needs rest…”

    “Doctor I hope you understand… Haido doesn’t mean what he said…”

    Sakura sat down beside Yuki, a first aid box in his hands. “I know… I’d be upset too if I were him… Yuki-san, I’m really sorry about Ken… there was nothing more I could do…”

    “I know…” Yuki said. Sakura applied antiseptic over and dressed his wounds with a neat bandage. “Thanks.”

    Sakura nodded. Taking the first aid box with him, he turned to leave.

    “You’re not staying?” Yuki asked concerned.

    Sakura shook his head, an expression of pain in his eyes. “I should wait until Hyde calms down…” He cast a look behind him at the small figure rested on the bed. “Jya.”

    Yuki watched as Sakura left the room. He pulled his chair closer by Hyde’s bed. Feeling they needed to stick together even more… maybe in that way, the pain would ease better… for the both of them…

    “Ken!!!” Hyde’s shrill voice broke out into the silent ward as he sat up in bed, his body shaking and drenched in sweat. Where was Yuki? He couldn’t see Yuki in front of him… No, please don’t… don’t tell him that another had gone… “Ken…” He repeated, shaking and crying.

    “Haido!” A strong pair of arms grabbed him from the back, forcing his stiffened body to relax in the embrace.

    Hyde turned expecting to see Yuki… But no… it wasn’t Yuki… It was… “Sa… Sakura…” Hyde gasped.

    Sakura let go, afraid that Hyde hadn’t calmed down. “Yuki-san… He… he’s gone to see to Ken’s funeral arrangements…” He saw Hyde’s shoulders sag as tears fell from his wide, unbelieving eyes. “Haido… I’m sorry…”

    Hyde looked at Sakura, unable to contain his pain any longer; he threw his arms around the doctor’s shoulders, burying his face in the crook of Sakura’s neck.

    “…Haido…” Sakura was stunned for a moment. Then he brought his hands round Hyde’s body, stroking his back as the smaller man wept helpless.

    “Sakura, Ken…” Hyde cried between sobs, his voice choked and muffled. “Ken!” He cried. Repeating his best friend’s name every few minutes. He let Sakura hold him there… “Why…” He asked softly, “Why Sakura… Why?” Hyde sobbed. He punched Sakura’s shoulder with light force, “Why…”

    Sakura held him tighter; he didn’t know how else he could comfort him. He only knew to be there for him… even though it didn’t seem to be the best way… He stroked Hyde’s hair, rocking his trembling body. Holding him there until he relaxed into sleep…

------------------

    Hyde squeezed Sakura’s hand tight; he could feel his eyes clouding with tears again. They had just been to Ken’s funeral… Now, right now, they were going to have to tell Tetsu. Hyde contemplated, how was he going to break the news to Tetsu?

    “Daijoubu?” Sakura asked. He leant closer to Hyde as they walked the usual quiet peaceful walkway that led to the garden. Since the funeral, he had noticed this unreadable expression in Hyde’s dark eyes. A shroud of darkness that wore over his face… It seemed like a new determination… like his pain had deepened and grew into something else…

    “I’m… fine.” Hyde managed a little smile, before lowering his head again.

    “We can always call Yuki-san to tell him…”

    “No, I want to tell him myself.” Hyde said softly. They were already approaching, he saw Tetsu not far off, by the bay. Quietly he let go of Sakura’s hand, running a hand through his bob and loosening in, letting it billow in the wind. “Tet-chan?” Hyde said softly, wheeling Tetsu around to face him. Tetsu wasn’t looking at Hyde, his blank stare focused to the glimmering of the bay below them. “Tet-chan!” Hyde raised his voice, cupping Tetsu’s face with his hands; he brought the redhead’s gaze to his. “Look at me.” He belted out. “Tetsuya! Look at me.” He lowered his hands, sinking at Tetsu’s lap. “Ken… Ken’s gone…” He whispered, his face against the soft material of Tetsu’s pants. “He’s gone…”

    Unbeknownst to Hyde, a single tear slid down Tetsu’s glazed eyes, falling down the curves of his cheeks, disappearing on his chin. It was like he understood…

------------------------

    “Are you out of your mind?!” Sakura yelled, pulling Hyde back by the arm.

    “I’m not! I’m going to kill him.” Hyde repeated flatly, his voice a deadly calm. Determination flashed in his dark eyes. He struggled, trying to writhe out of Sakura’s grasp.

    “Don’t be reckless Hyde!! Think of the consequences!”

    Hyde stomped his foot hard on Sakura’s, kicking him in the shin. “Don’t try to stop me!” He warned, storming out of the room.

    Sakura made haste and went after him. He grabbed Hyde back by the waist. The smaller man shrieked, punching him in the face. Sakura dropped Hyde, examining the small cut on his lip.

    Hyde threw open the front door, but Sakura slammed it shut. “Don’t be reckless Hyde!” He yelled; pushing Hyde against the wall while the smaller man struggled.

    “Let me go! I’ll kill him!!! I’ll kill him!!!” He screamed, managing to writhe out of Sakura’s grasp. Mad anger, mixed with tears showed on his face.

    Sakura wasn’t going to give up; he dragged Hyde unwillingly into the bedroom. Forcing his petit body onto the bed. “What if you get killed?” Sakura said, his tone firm, his black eyes staring deep into Hyde’s. “What if you get yourself hurt? Huh? If you get killed?” He paused, his grip firm on Hyde’s wrists. “What about Yuki then?”

    Tears were starting to fall from Hyde’s eyes.

    “What about Tetsu? Who’s going to take care of him?”

    Hyde’s body shook as he tried to hold back coming tears from his already wet face. He turned his face away from Sakura. He could not bring himself to look into his lover’s eyes. He could not bear to hear anymore…

    “What about me Hyde?” Sakura voice went soft. He bent down, gently cupping Hyde’s face, bringing Hyde to face him. “What about me?” He lowered his lips over Hyde’s, tucking his tongue into Hyde’s mouth.

    Hyde searched the insides of Sakura’s mouth, tears pouring down his face. He cupped his lover’s face urgently, stroking Sakura’s dark hair.

    “Don’t be reckless Hyde…” Sakura whispered, “Please don’t be reckless…”

    Hyde smiled slightly, “I promise…” He whispered, sniffing. “You know… that day, I don’t blame you… really…” Hyde brought Sakura’s face to his, kissing his cheek, his thin legs stroking up and down Sakura’s.

“I know Hyde, I know…” Sakura took Hyde’s small face into his hands. Softly kissing the pink of his lips. Soon, their clothes came undone, flung into a messy stack over the floor. Sakura held on tight to Hyde’s face, kissing him, his ardent hand moving over Hyde’s tight arousal in slow, hypnotizing strokes. Hyde moaned, tightening his hands behind Sakura.

    Hyde gasped; throwing his head back in intoxicated pleasure as Sakura’s tongue skillfully encircled his left nipple. His hands gripped tight on the bed-sheets, squeezing them onto a tight ball in his fist. He arched his back, shivers running down his body and coming out in tiny goose pimples over his fair skin. Sakura licked and sucked the delicate flesh beneath him, supporting Hyde’s smaller body by his back. He brought his lips up, trailing it along Hyde’s neck and around his Adam’s apple and up to his lips. Hyde moaned deeply, feeling his lover’s moist lips atop his, Sakura’s tongue encircling around his own… “Sakura…” Hyde whispered, feeling his strength leaving him minute by minute. Breathless… that’s how it is… Sakura always left him breathless. His eyes lidded over with pleasure. “Ahh… I love… I love you Sakura…” He whispered, panting.

    Sakura stroked Hyde’s small, tightened chest beneath him. “I love you too…” He whispered.

----------------------

    I sit in bed, it had been hours later and Sakura had fallen asleep. Silently, I stoke his hair, tracing my finger over his eyelids… nose… and lips… the lips I love best. I smile; bending down to kiss him. He lets out a small grunt, nibbling my lips softly. “Shhh…” I whisper by his ear, soothing him back to sleep. “I love you.” I said, planting a soft kiss on his forehead, I get out of bed. Grabbing my clothes by the corner, I put them on slowly, staring intently at his sleeping face; those chiseled features and strong jaw line.

    I’m already walking out of the room, not looking back. I don’t want to have to miss Sakura especially much; I’m already starting to feel this growing pang in my chest. ‘I’m sorry…’ I pick up my gun by the door, ‘I have to go…’ And I close the door behind me.

--------------------------

    “Haido!” The man hissed, “It’s been many years… You came to join Ken I see?”

    “Uruse Kyota! I’ll kill you!” Hyde yelled, charging at him. The man kicked him fiercely in the stomach. Hyde fell to the ground, his gun flung out of his grasp. The man took aim and fired. Hyde screamed in pain, curling up in a small ball. He clutched at his thigh. “Bastard!” He hissed, shivering.

    “Oooh, look now, no gun!” Kyota laughed, kicking Hyde’s gun far off. “What do you say now Hyde?”

    Hyde backed away, wincing in pain. Sweat was beginning to cloud at his forehead.

    He stepped forward as Hyde backed; soon he was up against a wall. Hyde looked around, panic rising to his senses.

    “No where to run Hyde…” Kyota pulled the trigger again.

    The photo frame that had sat on his bedside table flashed into his head. ‘Ken… Yuki… Tetsu… Gomen…’ Hyde shut his eyes, bracing himself… He did not see the raven-haired man running towards him. Sakura… And Sakura… His lover’s sweet kisses… Sakura… He faintly heard the cackle as the man fired…. And then the wheezing of the bullet… But the impact… the impact never came… Hyde opened his eyes, feeling something wet and warm trickle down his face. He looked up… “Sa…ku…” His voice shook, ‘No, it can’t be…’ “Sa...kura…” He gasped, his lover’s limp body slumping onto his own.

    Sakura sank against the floor, his eyes staring into blank space ahead of him. Blood pooled out from a spot in the middle of his chest, spreading fast against the black of his clothes.

    “Sakura!!!” Hyde screamed, cradling his lover. “No!!!” He cried, “No!!! Sakura no!!!” He laid Sakura on his lap, Sakura had been shot from the back, and the bullet had protruded through, forming a gapping wound in the middle of his chest. “No!!! Sakura!!!”

    Sakura’s eyes focused on Hyde. His vision was blurring, he was finding it hard to see. “Hai… Haido…” He whispered, lifting his hand to stroke Hyde’s wet cheek.

    “Sakura!!” Hyde grabbed Sakura’s hand with urgency, soothing his lover’s hair. Sakura’s face was paling; his fingers were cold, and his body was shivering slightly. “Sakura…”

    In his corner, Kyota smirked. “How touching Hyde!” He mocked, a laugh escaping his lips. Hyde didn’t answer him, his tearful eyes fixed on his lover’s pallid face. Kyota laughed harder, he loved it when things ended up in a sad tragedy like this. Hyde’s pain was just too joyful to watch.

    “Reckless…” Sakura scolded, his breath shuddering. His eyes were tired and he shut them a little.

“No!!!” Hyde shrieked. “Don’t sleep! Sakura!!!” Hyde shook him, squeezing his hand tight. Sakura opened his eyes again, looking at Hyde’s face, a tender look in his eyes. His lover was willful, refusing to let him sleep even when he was this tired. “Tell me how to stop your bleeding! Sakura!!! Tell me!!!” Hyde screamed, pressing furiously against the growing red. “Tell me how to stop your bleeding Sakura!!!!” He didn’t realize, the larger hand in his had gone limp, and the breath that had passed through Sakura’s body had gone. “Sakura!!!” Hyde cried, he looked desperately at his lover’s face. “Sakura?” He called, shaking him a little. Sakura’s eyes had lidded over, his pale lips slightly parted, his complexion a stark contrast to his black clothes. “Sakura? Sakura!!!” Hyde screamed, “No!!!!” He buried his head into Sakura’s chest. “No!!!” He wailed, hugging his lover tight. “Don’t leave me damnit!!! Sakura!!!” Hyde tightened his grip on Sakura, hoping to feel those warm arms encircle him again.

“Sakura…” He repeated, rocking his lover. Suddenly, he pulled Sakura’s arm around his shoulders. “I’ll get you out of here, we’ll go to a hospital, you’ll be fine…” Hyde said gently, struggling to stand with the weight of Sakura’s limp body atop his.

    His knees shook, blood running down his leg from the shot in his thigh. But it didn’t seem to hurt, strangely. “I’ll get you out of here… you’ll be fine…” He repeated, reaching to stroke his lover’s lips.

    “I’ll teach you to plot against me Hyde. Revenge on me? How impudent!” Kyota said, yelling over the noise.

He had barely gotten far when a gun sounded, hitting him in the waist. Hyde stumbled; it felt like fire against his skin. But he bit his lip, continuing to pull Sakura out. “You’ll be fine…” he mumbled.

    Kyota yelled, “You’re not getting out Hyde! Say your goodbyes and join your lover.” Taking aim, he fired again.

    Hyde gasped, dropping Sakura, he fell to the floor. “Sakura…” He whispered, reaching over to pull Sakura closer to him. “It’s okay… We’re getting out of here…” Hyde noticed the door a few feet off. He began crawling and pulling his way there, supporting Sakura’s body with his own, frail one. Hyde closed his eyes; the place was beginning to dim. “Don’t worry… We’re almost there…” he whispered, his voice going soft. “Sakura… You’ll be fine… I love you… you know that?” He rambled on, his head light from the lack of blood. Hyde reached for the door, forcing himself to stand just a little. His body shook terribly as he hurled Sakura under his shaking arm. “I’ll get you out… I’ll get you to a hospital, you’ll be… just fine…”

    His strength failing him, he dropped Sakura to the floor, sinking atop his lover’s cold body. “Sakura… don’t worry love… We’re getting…” Suddenly, he felt a daft pain flash through his body. His body jerked forward, a small sound of pain escaped his lips. Hyde coughed weakly, blood coming from his mouth. “Sakura…” He mouthed, falling atop his lover’s body. More blood flowed from his parted lips; he tightened his grip around Sakura. ‘We’ll get out of here… Sakura…’ He wanted to say it so that Sakura would hear… but his voice wouldn’t come out. Hyde’s chest heaved as he struggled painfully to breathe; the air seemed further and further away. Heavy lidded, his eyelids fluttered close. Then he thought he could feel the warmth from the body beneath him again… maybe... that was Sakura calling his name… Maybe…