fateofflames

[fateofflames]

10 years later

[fateofflames]

Dante, Vergil

[Devil May Cry 5: Visions of V Ch. 37]

I didn’t really like the Netflix Devil May Cry anime 😅, so I decided to reread Visions of V.

[fateofflames]

Yuji cared about Megumi—deeply, impossibly, helplessly. That was why he lingered, why he couldn’t seem to pull away, why Megumi had this hold on him that he didn’t even seem aware of. Why Yuji was so utterly enthralled by him, unable to get him out of his head no matter how hard he tried. That’s what this was, right? Ugh, who was he kidding? He had completely fallen for his friend. And now he was just a lovesick puppy, trailing after Megumi, acting weird, making things awkward—not exactly the charming, effortless presence he wanted to be. He realized this when Megumi, voice quick and clipped, pointed out that they both wouldn’t fit in the tub.

“Right, I was kidding…”

Wasn't he? Megumi did not need to know that, deep down, maybe he meant it. Yuji bit his lower lip, forcing out a laugh that felt too strained, too thin. His eyes widened when Megumi followed it up with a suggestion to use the guest washroom instead. Wait, no. That wasn’t what he meant at all. Panic flared for a second, the worry that Megumi might think Yuji considered his shared bath not good enough. Great. Now, he was overthinking everything.

“It’s fine! Our bath is great too!” he blurted out, laughing again—too quick, too forced.

Megumi, ever unreadable, simply assured him that he was fine. Yuji tried not to look disappointed, but he knew himself well enough to know he was always easy to read. At least for Megumi. Hopefully, just this once, Megumi wasn’t paying too much attention. Either Megumi didn’t feel as comfortable around him as Yuji had hoped, or Yuji had truly messed up and made things awkward. Probably both.

“Alright then. I’ll let you rest,”  he murmured, stepping back, though everything in him wanted to stay. Still, he turned toward the door, pausing for just a second, just long enough to steal one last glance.

“And make sure you do rest, okay?” he added, offering a small, warm smile before disappearing out of the room.

Yuji didn’t go to have lunch in the main house. Instead, he retrieved his shirt and shoes, heading straight back to work, throwing himself into it with the desperate hope that maybe it would be enough of a distraction. It wasn’t. No matter how hard he worked, Megumi remained stubbornly in his thoughts. Even during dinner, surrounded by the other ranch hands, he found himself zoning out, barely hearing the conversation. When someone asked if something was wrong, he shook his head, brushing it off with a simple, “Just tired.”

He forced himself to finish his meal, then took to wandering under the evening sky, trying to walk off the restless, anxious energy tightening in his chest. His body was exhausted, but he already knew that sleep wouldn’t come easily tonight. Not with his mind like this. Maybe he should check on Megumi? His gaze drifted toward the main house. But what if Megumi didn’t want him to? What if he had only been polite, only trying to get rid of him? Yuji wavered, torn between the pull of his heart and the weight of his doubt. Then again, he didn’t have to go inside. He could just ask Mr. Gojo. Or someone from the staff.  Just for peace of mind. That was all. Decision made, he started toward the main house. He would ask how Megumi is doing, and then he’d leave.

Arriving at the front door, Yuji hesitates before knocking.

Again words were not meant to be an invitation. He was somehow both eloquent with the way he spoke, and a complete mess, tripping over his own meanings. In the heat of the day, the ice in the tub was surely melting. Time was of the essence, but Yuji did not appear to want to leave. Could it be? He wasn't deterred by the mess of Megumi's diotic words, and he wasn't eager to load up on food. He was worried about Megumi. He CARED about Megumi... but with flame tipped ears and that awkward scratch to the back of his head, there was more in those honey gold eyes.

In one moment he looked boyish and innocent, and in the next Yuji looked like he had... desires. As if those eyes were pleading. Again, it could have been concern. He was sure doctors and nurses would stick around through the worst and the disgusting. Not out of love but out of concern and duty. Helping Megumi bathe and inspecting his bruised behind could have been matter of fact. The thought filled Megumi with dread because... he wanted to be liked.

He wanted the soft look in Yuji's eyes to be more than platonic. Megumi again looked like a trout with the way his mouth opened, shut, and opened again. How he wished for the ability to read minds, Yuji's mind in particular. Even if it meant being hurt or disappointed, Megumi just wanted to KNOW. He wondered now how often Yuji bathed. Was it awkward sharing a bath with so many other men in the housing for the ranch hands? Their living quarters were better, perhaps the best of all the ranches in the country, but their bath tub must have been rudimentary.

Megumi never stepped foot into the housing for the ranch hands or the maids; he had a feeling no one wanted someone like Megumi being in their spaces. He trusted Satoru and his judgement, but a man like Yuji deserved a big porcelain tub like the ones in the main house. Unfortunately even the tub in Megumi's wash room was not big enough for the two of them. The very second of imagination of the two of them naked almost caused Megumi to faint like some sort of damsel.

“ It's not big enough for the BOTH of us.... ”

Megumi tried to say it like it was no big deal, but his voice cracked a little. He blamed the heat. He needed another drink of water.

“ But if the tub is not big enough in your housing, you could always use the tub here... in the guest wash room. ”

That sounded NORMAL, right??

“ No physician is necessary. I assure you. I need rest is all. You could-- ”

He wet his lips with another swipe of his tongue. What was he to say? Nothing about this was normal. While he didn't want Yuji to leave, he did feel like he was going to melt like an ice cube in the dessert. Megumi's long lashes swept against his cheek bones slowly as he shyly looked at Yuji's face and ONLY his face.

“ Check in on me... or I can send word to you. You must be hungry! Very... hungry. Mhmm ”

[fateofflames]

What little he managed to glimpse as he stole  glances around the room was… nice. The space was large, yet it felt warm, familiar—somehow, it felt like Megumi. Maybe eventually Megumi would invite him over properly one day, let him take his time, and allow his curious eyes to wander freely. Maybe he’d tell him about all the little trinkets scattered around, share the stories of where he found them, the places he’d been. Megumi always seemed like he had traveled more, experienced more—so much more than Yuji could ever dream of. Yuji had barely seen beyond his immediate surroundings, never had the chance to venture further than his surrounding areas. But maybe one  day, Megumi would take him with him.

For a fleeting moment, Yuji felt Megumi’s fingers clutch at his shirt, the warmth seeping through the fabric. It was barely a touch, and yet—why was it so endearing? His heart stuttered at the sensation, at the way it disappeared just as quickly as it came, leaving behind a ghost of warmth he already missed. He lowered him carefully, watching as Megumi steadied himself, that soft, barely-there smile still lingering on his lips. Then, Megumi called him gentle. And just like that, Yuji was blushing, warmth crawling up his neck as he rubbed the back of his nape and averted his gaze, trying—failing—not to let it show. But then—"Best ride…"

Megumi’s next words caught him completely off guard, the unintentional stutter making Yuji’s brain short-circuit. Wait. What? What did he mean? Not like that? Not like—oh. Oh. Yuji could feel the heat spreading up to his ears, burning at the tips, but he only laughed it off, grinning at his friend like it was nothing. Like it didn’t set off an entire firework display in his head. It wasn’t like Yuji was so naive, sure he was innocent by most standards but he’s heard the other men talk enough about their romances and flings to get the picture.

When Megumi mentioned he could eat as much as he wanted, Yuji merely nodded. But honestly? Food wasn’t really on his mind—not if he had to eat alone. He lingered, watching Megumi carefully, feeling that tiny pull inside his chest that told him maybe he should stay. What if Megumi needed more help? He couldn’t just let him struggle alone, not when he might hurt himself again.

“The bath smells nice,” Yuji remarked, glancing toward it, then back at Megumi with a sheepish smile. “Kinda tempting to join you! I mean—uh! Just… we don’t have baths like this, that’s all! Not that it’s bad or anything!”

He hoped Megumi didn’t think he was ungrateful. Mr. Gojo had already been incredibly generous in letting him stay here—he didn’t want to seem like he was complaining. His expression softened, his voice dipping lower with concern. 

“Do you need help getting in? I don’t want you to hurt yourself more. Maybe I should check your back to see if it is bruised badly, just in case? If it’s bad enough, we might need to call a physican.”

He took a step closer, slow and careful, making no move to touch Megumi without permission. His gaze, warm and patient, rested on his friend—eyes brimming with something unspoken, something soft, something almost unbearably full of quiet yearning. Would Megumi let him stay a little longer? Does Yuji even know what he’s getting himself into?

In truth, the way Megumi touched his friend, the intensity of his gaze, and the soft flabbergast of his tone had not been a direct invitation into his bedroom. However he did not mind it. It was intimate for Megumi more than anyone else, but the two had already crossed monumental thresholds which would be impossible to accomplish with anyone else. Finding Yuji in a similar state of disarray and shock made Megumi feel a bit better, yet there was also that dread -- maybe Yuji was struggling with words because he was disgusted and didn't know what to do.

Maybe he was regretting touching another man so extensively. Despite Megumi's blindness for human cues, there was definitely something soft and HARD in Yuji's gaze. Something which told him it wasn't disgust the other man was feeling. Could he possibly be feeling ANY similarity to Megumi's emotions and desires? When they --rather Yuji -- started walking again, Megumi's fingers held onto his friend's thin, sheer under shirt without thinking. He quickly released a few seconds later of course and drew his gaze away.

If anything, the extravagance of the room would be more embarrassing than the room itself. The room was larger and unlike the other rooms of the house, slightly darker but no less airy and welcoming. It had been Megumi's bedroom since childhood, so the boy had chosen a color scheme of dark wood and greens as opposed to the rest of the manor which was all white, blues, and pale yellows. A king sized bed all in dark wood with green curtains put the guest bedrooms to shame. It was all very adult except for the hundreds of porcelain and wood carved trinkets and statues of animals from those of the American plains to the jungles of Africa.

Small statues sat on many levels of shelves, and larger statues of waist height sat on the floor. The walls were also adorned with drawings and paintings of wildlife, domestic animals, and landscapes. All in all, it shouldn't have surprised Yuji. The most personal of items were rudimentary wood carvings which Megumi had done himself and a single artist's portrait of Satoru and Megumi after their first Christmas together; Yuji would have to look closely to find those however. Megumi was happy being on his own two feet.

He still wanted to touch Yuji and BE touched by him but this gave him more control. Also, the overwhelming heat of their touching made him forget about the pain in his lower back. Funny how distractions worked. How the mind worked. He wasn't able to stand straight like normal but at least he didn't look like a hunchback.

“ No! I mean... no, of course you didn't. You're very.. gentle. ”

Megumi had been stone faced as a child, maybe it made sense he was acting childish now. His lips were almost set in a pout and he nervously fiddled with the leather belt of his pants. His cheeks were still flame hot and he only glanced at Yuji. If his eyes lingered on his friend for more than five seconds, it would be glued to the sight of his extremely fit torso. What size shirts did he wear? Did he also want a bath---- NO, MEGUMI. The black haired man looked around his own room like it was the first time he was entering the space.

“ Kuro would've left me crippled. You are gentle... and strong. Best ride I've had--- I mean, no, not like that. I meant it was gentle, so thank you. ”

It all came out as a rush of panicked words. He was an idiot. Megumi ran his fingers through his black spikes and forced eye contact with those honey gold eyes.

“ You can have all the food you want like I said and maybe... we can catch up some other point. I'm sorry for dragging you into my mess, and don't say I haven't. I did. I know how busy you and everyone else is. ”

He wanted to touch Yuji instead he just nodded his head. Smoldering green eyes staring adamantly before dropping to the ground.

“ I should start washing up..... ”

[fateofflames]

It was impossible to ignore the way Megumi was looking at him—Yuji could feel it burning into his skin like a quiet, unspoken question. But he wasn’t sure what it meant. Was it because he was dirty? Because he probably smelled, too? They were both covered in sweat and grime, yet Yuji didn’t mind. It didn’t stop his thoughts from wandering. It didn’t make Megumi any less breathtaking.

He risked a peek at his friend, almost regretting it instantly because there was sweat rolling down Megumi’s handsome face, sliding down his neck, disappearing beneath the thin fabric of his shirt. Yuji’s eyes followed its path before he could stop himself, his breath hitching as warmth bloomed beneath his skin. What would he see if he peeled that cotton away? The thought made him gulp, and his body suddenly traitorously overheated.

It was a miracle he didn’t trip going up the stairs. Then again, he couldn’t afford to fall—not when he was carrying something so precious. He wouldn’t dare drop Megumi. So he treaded carefully, even if his mind was a scattered mess, even if his heart was thudding a little too fast. Even if he was starting to realize how much he liked this—how much he liked holding Megumi close. Was it just the warmth of another person? Had he always been this touch-starved? Yuji had never thought about it before—never thought about wanting to be held or to hold someone like this. These kinds of yearnings had never struck him, not even during puberty. Maybe he’d been a little strange for that. But… better late than never?

Megumi’s voice snapped him out of his spiraling thoughts, only to send him tumbling in a whole new direction. Why did he have to say his name like that? Yuji met his gaze and smiled instinctively, warm and earnest.

“You’re welcome. Anytime.”

And he meant it. He would do anything for Megumi. He had felt that way before, and nothing had changed. If anything, it had only solidified. Yuji was just grateful Megumi was letting him help at all—not that he’d really given him a choice when he’d scooped him up and carried him up the stairs.

He was about to speak again when something completely threw him off guard. Megumi. Those dark lashes casting shadows over impossibly green eyes. That sharp, elegant nose. And those lips—soft-looking, sinful in the way his tongue swept over them, only to catch the bottom one between his teeth. Yuji inhaled sharply, his mouth suddenly dry—no, worse than dry. It was watering, for some inexplicable reason. What was wrong with him? He licked his own lips and swallowed thickly, forcing himself to meet Megumi’s gaze again.

“I, uh—sorry if I get your bedroom a little dirty.”

He flashed an apologetic smile as he stepped inside, careful not to be too nosy and look around. The connected washroom was so large and nice. Yuji hesitated, taking in the warmth of the room, the scent of whatever bath oils had been used. He almost wished he could—No. No, absolutely not. He definitely did not just think that. Shaking himself, he remembered Megumi in his arms and gently set him down, though he remained close just in case. His hands lingered, one steadying Megumi’s arm, the other resting lightly at his waist.

“I didn’t make it worse, did I? Are you okay?”.

If there was one and only ONE word Megumi Fushiguro could use to describe his childhood best friend (now his adulthood best friend), it would be genuine. However Megumi could think of another handful of appropriate ways to describe him. Charitable and handsome being in the top five. Effortless, too. Looking into Megumi's mind wouldn't bring much content beside a slew of compliments for his friend who was making him more flushed and out of element than anything or anyone had in the past. Puberty had been, although strange and confusing, easier to handle than everything Yuji was throwing at him.

It was like riding the wildest of wild horses, and Megumi was having a difficult time keeping in the saddle. Overthinking a singular moment, and he was being bucked off. Megumi would take bruised bones and a face full of dirt over being held by Yuji. No, wait, he wouldn't. He liked THIS despite the raging embarrassment. Yuji was sweaty and dirt freckled his skin, but he looked absolutely handsome. It was downright sinful. It could have been illegal -- not to mention how effortlessly he carried Megumi.

One thing was riding his back, another was being carried like a damsel straight out of a novel. For the first time in his life, the man squealed. Mortified he clamped his lips shut and lied ram-rod still in his friend's hold. He didn't need to see the maids to know they were staring. Talking. No, he didn't want to see them. But a little part of Megumi thought -- so what. I'm injured and my friend is carrying me. Any other man would have slung an arm around him and just helped up the stairs.

Yuji Itadori who was nothing short of genuine and generous, carried his friend like a BRIDE. Said bride didn't know what to do with his hands, so one arm dangled limply and the other rested on his belly. In the way he smiled Yuji held boyish charm. It clashed with the rest of him which was built like a damn dream. He was the kind of man women swooned over, or so Megumi imagined. Easy to imagine when he, himself, was staring like goats after hay. Shock, mortification, and arousal all morphed into a wide eyed look of awe. But why, WHY did he have to take off his shirt?

Megumi who wasn't rail thin looked it compared to Yuji, and their sweaty torsos were touching, only separated by thin cotton. One of Yuji's pectorals was as big or bigger than Megumi's head. Was he staring? Yes, yes he was. He didn't even realize they reached the landing of the second floor, then the door leading to Megumi's bedroom. He opened, shut, and opened his mouth again. If he could be described as being red before, he was absolutely scarlet now.

“ Yuuu....ji..... ”

Megumi bit his bottom lip and looked the opposite way. He liked this, and it scared him so much. He didn't just like being Yuji's friend. He didn't just like being in his presence. Megumi liked being TOUCHED and HELD. Despite wanting to melt away like a shadow, he did raise his hand and placed his fist against the rock-hard of Yuji's sternum.

“ Thank you...... ”

He could barely talk much less think. Did Yuji intend to carry him into his bedroom? Into the washroom? Megumi's chin moved so that he wasn't looking away like a petulant child. He still kept his chin low, but he did look up at Yuji's stunning face through his long black eyelashes. He was gnawing on his bottom lip and his expression almost looked... coy... INVITING. But he was just confused and out of words. Maybe he'd get weirded out and set Megumi down. That would be for the best. Beads of sweat rolled down his temple and ran long his jawline.

[fateofflames]

There were a few other workers on the farm whom Yuji had grown close to. Though he was friendly with everyone he interacted with, the few guys he shared living space with had become something like friends—at least in a casual, easygoing way. There was also a girl from the kitchens, Hana, who seemed particularly fond of Yuji. She often sought him out for conversation and brought him extra food, her warm smiles a clear indication of her interest. She was quite pretty, undeniably so, but Yuji never paid much attention to her affection. Or to anyone else who had taken an interest in him, for that matter. None of them held a candle to Megumi.

It puzzled many that ever since young master Fushiguro had returned from his travels, Yuji—of all people—had been seen laughing and lingering in his company. It was obvious they had known each other before, but the details of their connection were a mystery. People were already whispering, their curiosity only growing as Mr. Gojo took to inviting Yuji to dine at the main house. Yuji didn't seem particularly special, but perhaps there was more to him than met the eye. 

To Yuji, though, it was Megumi who made him feel special. There was something indulgent, almost generous, in the attention Megumi gave him. And if nothing else, Yuji could be certain of one thing—Megumi was fond of him as a friend. That should be enough. He should be content with that. Being reunited with his friend should be enough. How could he dare expect anything more? Especially given the difference in their statuses. Not that it mattered to Megumi. Yuji knew that, but still…

The walk up to the house was a bit of a trek, but Yuji savored every second of it. He was almost reluctant when he had to set Megumi down, the warmth of carrying him lingering on his skin. But just as he was adjusting, Megumi’s voice brushed against his ear in a way he hadn't expected. Yuji nearly jolted, his entire face and ears turning a warm shade of pink.

"Yeah, don’t mention it."

He flashed Megumi a grin—genuine, happy. He loved that nickname, even if it was just something Megumi had called him when they were kids. It felt different now. Affectionate in a way that made his heart race.

Caught by one of the staff, Yuji stood there almost shyly, looking a little crestfallen when Megumi informed him he couldn’t join him for lunch. But he recovered quickly, masking any disappointment with a smile. That is, until he noticed Megumi struggling up the stairs. With a frown, Yuji kicked off his muddy shoes, shrugged off his dirty button-up shirt, and tossed it aside. Then, in a few long strides, he caught up to Megumi—without warning, sweeping him into his arms, lifting him effortlessly. This time, his hands curled beneath Megumi’s thighs, cradling him bridal-style.

“You’re going to make it worse. Let me help.”

Carefully, he carried Megumi up the stairs, utterly oblivious to the gasping and whispering maids peeking at them. It wasn’t until a few steps later that he realized both of them were only in their undershirts. And suddenly, there was too much warmth, too much closeness. Megumi’s skin, milky smooth and soft, was right there, exposed in the way a Victorian woman showing a bit of ankle might be. Yuji gulped, willing himself not to think about it. Not to stare. Yeah, he was definitely dunking his head in cold water after this. Or maybe he’d just throw himself into the river. His breath almost hitched, but he quickly got a hold of himself and continued all the way to the front of Megumi’s bedroom. He wouldn’t enter without permission, of course. 

Honey gold and malachite green never melded so well before in all of Earth's history. The two men weren't so different, but they were like magnets growing more and more attracted to one another; being in close proximity almost ensured physical contact... and it had only been a few days since reuniting. Although they were nothing but innocent as children, they had been magnetized to each other as well back then. Although Sunflower was Yuji's nickname, it was Megumi who felt like a plant, turning in the direction of Yuji's light and warmth.

Where Yuji was, everything seemed to grow brighter and the things around him blossomed. Of course no one would be able to really tell how enamored Megumi was, however they could tell something was different. The stern boy who grew into a sterner man didn't speak beyond formalities and what was necessary. He didn't make small talk. He didn't have friends. He was described colder than ice. He was warm and vulnerable with Itadori.

As proof, he was mortified by the idea of inconveniencing his friend on top of dealing with some sort of SEXUAL and heart throbbing awakening. It was definitely more LOVE than sexual desire, but there was no ignoring the sensation he felt below the buckle. The blood rushing to his face and through his heart thankfully dominated any movement down low. Embarrassment was good for something. His lips failed like a floundering fish when Yuji guided him. Megumi felt like a madame in the way he covered his red cheeks with his hand.

“ I couldn't.... ”

He'd look like a child hugging onto Itadori's back for one. Secondly, they'd be pressed against each other. As if that makes a difference; you shared a bed last night! His mind reminded him like a slap in the face. Yuji was offering and waiting. They were just friends. Lord. Megumi sighed. He left his button-down shirt behind and very slowly, like a scared dog, climbed onto Yuji's back. It was more like he got into position and Yuji did the rest. He wouldn't admit it but it hurt. It hurt when he was sitting though would definitely hurt more if he took on Kuro's back.

Yuji was thick and muscular, which forced Megumi's legs wide and caused pressure to build in his lower back as a result. He didn't complain... didn't even groan in pain. All in all, Yuji was gentle and made the trip tolerable not only with his chattering but by being HIM. Pink haired, merry, caring, and perfect. Despite the sweat of them and the smell of the ranch, it was pleasant. Megumi's arms were loosely wrapped around Yuji's shoulders but even then the sweat of his back with the sweat of Megumi's torso clung to each other. It should've been disgusting. It was not. When they reached the main house, the seven steps up to the door were decidedly the most painful but tolerable. On the landing Megumi sighed with relief, accidentally speaking soft and close to his friend's ear.

“ Thank you.. Sunflower. ”

His voice came out lower and softer than he intended but he hardly noticed. His bare hands slid across Yuji's broad shoulders, signaling him he could be put down. No dirty boots were allowed past the foyer. They would have to kick off the muddy things, and as Megumi was gently set down, one of the older maids greeted them with a shocked expression.

“ Could you get some ice from the cellar, please. I need a cold bath drawn, and a big lunch for Itadori here. Whatever he desires. Please and thank you. ”

Megumi ignored the way she looked so shocked. She hurried off to relate his orders to the other staff members, and Megumi was left playing temporary host. He led Yuji in while walking slowly and with his back slightly hunched.

“I'm sorry I can't join you for lunch. I'm going to bathe and apply some ointment. You could wait for Gojo, but you're free to eat all the lunch you want... Thank you again. ”

And now he had to get up the long slight of steps. Damn it.

[fateofflames]

The pink-haired ranch hand idly toys with the cup in his hands, his fingers tracing its rim as he glances toward his friend. Concern lingers in his warm eyes, tempting him to scoot just a little closer. He still has plenty of work to finish before the day is done, but right now, none of that mattered not if Megumi wasn’t alright. And if it means he gets to spend just a bit more time by his side, well… that’s nice, too.

For a fleeting moment, their eyes met, and Yuji felt something bloom inside him—something soft and golden, filling every corner of his chest. The way Megumi looks at him makes him feel so much, too much. What if Megumi felt the same? Could he sense it? Or was Yuji just imagining things? There was no way Megumi would ever see him as more than a friend… right? But then, what did that even mean? What did it look like to like someone more than a friend? His thoughts spiral as a blush dusts his cheeks, warmth creeping up to the tips of his ears.

“No worries! I can carry you.”

The words leave him the moment Megumi asks for help, and Yuji is already on his feet, determination replacing hesitation. There’s no way he’s letting Megumi struggle back to the house on his own, not when he’s obviously in pain. He takes Megumi’s hand, his grip firm yet gentle, steadying him as he helps him to his feet. Then, he pauses, head tilting in thought as he considers the best way to carry him without causing more discomfort. After a beat, he crouched down slightly, back turned toward Megumi before glancing over his shoulder with an easy, boyish grin.

“Alright, go ahead and hop on. This way, it won’t hurt as much. And don’t worry about me—I’ve got this.” His smile is warm, reassuring, and tinged with something softer beneath the surface.

“Lunch does sound good, though.”

He can’t help the way his heart lifts at the thought—just another excuse to spend more time with Megumi. The rest of his duties can wait. Surely, Mr. Gojo will understand.

Once Megumi is securely on his back, Yuji rises carefully, making sure his hold is steady before heading toward the main house. As they go, he chatters away, filling the air between them with bright, easy conversation. Anything to keep Megumi distracted, just in case the pain lingers. Anything to keep this moment lasting just a little longer.

Sunflower's nonchalance did not entirely alleviate the mounting anxiety and... desire, however it made Megumi feel more comfortable all things considered. All things considered he was developing feelings he had never felt before AND felt like utter horseshit. With Yuji gone like the wind, he took the time to wipe the mud off himself as best as possible without getting any on his hands. Excess clumps of mud were wiped on the hay, while he made quick work of unbuttoning his long-sleeve work shirt.

He folded the material from the inside out and set it aside beside him, leaving Megumi in his white cotton undershirt. He didn't give a second thought to the state of undress. They were on a ranch after all; there was no need for modesty. Furthermore, he was still modest in his undershirt, though the white material was more form fitting especially in the presence of sweat coating his skin. Kuro continued to check in on her master.

Her hot breath hit Megumi's face as she nuzzled him kindly. The goats were looking on as well, but that was most likely due to the bottom-less pit that was their stomachs. He continued to hold all his weight on his right ass-cheek even when Yuji approached like a loyal... no, Megumi couldn't refer to himself as anything other than himself. Yuji Itadori the kind and gentle and perfect man. A tame smile was thrown his way, then he debated whether pouring the cool water down his back or actually drinking it.

“ Thank you, Yuji. ”

Considering the heat and the sun, he opted for the latter. The entire contents of the tin cup were downed in one go, forcibly, and he then used the cool tin as a temporary compress against his lower back. It was beyond embarrassing but he was above getting flustered now. So he believed. He wouldn't be able to ride the saddle tomorrow if he was already in this much pain. Megumi drew in a deep breath and released it as a sorrow filled sigh. Green eyes looked up at his best friend like a dog who got his paw stuck on a thorn.

“ ...Could you help me, please? I can tell I've bruised myself something nasty. I--. ”

Megumi shook his head and laughed in a self-deprecating manner.

“ Maybe I can walk along Kuro. It's not like I broke anything, and you carrying me is out of the question. ”

Megumi's cheeks were flushed deep red, but it was purely from the heat. He was hot and pissed off at his clumsiness.

“ It's still early, but I can treat you to a big lunch for inconveniencing you like THIS. ”

[fateofflames]

It wasn’t that Megumi was light as a feather—he had a solid weight to him, maybe even heavier than Yuji had expected—but it didn’t faze him in the slightest. He’d grown up working hard for his grandpa, and now, with his days spent tending the farm, his muscles had been naturally shaped by labor. Maybe he was just strong by nature, but whatever the reason, carrying Megumi was almost effortless. More than that, there was something strangely thrilling about it—the way Megumi clung to his shoulders, the warmth of his body against Yuji’s own. If he were honest, he almost didn’t want to let go.

“I’m already dirty, it’s fine,” 

Yuji chuckled, taking his time as he set Megumi back on his feet. His hands lingered at Megumi’s waist, just for a second too long, before he finally pulled away and stepped back, giving him space. And yet, despite the heat of the afternoon sun, Yuji suddenly felt even warmer. His skin prickled with awareness, the realization creeping in that he was still covered in dirt and sweat. Did he smell? Oh god, he probably did. But then, why did that even matter? Why did being around Megumi suddenly feel so… overwhelming? Sure, Megumi was his friend, and being with him always made Yuji happy, but this—this was different. His heart was pounding, beating against his ribs like it was trying to escape, and he had no idea why. Or maybe he did, and he just didn’t want to admit it.

When Megumi wiped his forehead, his skin glistening under the golden light of the sun, and Yuji felt his breath catch. It was unfair—how effortlessly cool he looked, how the sweat only made him seem even more attractive. Yuji swallowed hard, tearing his gaze away, suddenly hyperaware of himself.

“Water—yeah! Let me go get you some water! I’ll be right back!”

Before Megumi could say anything, Yuji bolted. He practically sprinted out of sight, only stopping when he reached one of the water troughs for the animals. For a brief, ridiculous moment, he contemplated dunking his entire head into the cold water, as if that would somehow extinguish the heat spreading through his body. The nearby horse snorted at him, unimpressed. Yuji groaned, shaking his head at himself before rushing off again.

The kitchen staff barely had time to react before Yuji burst into the room, startling a few poor souls in the process. He grinned sheepishly, apologizing in a flurry of words before asking for cold water. They only laughed, already used to his antics, and handed him two tin cups filled with ice water. Yuji accepted them with a grateful smile, careful as he carried them back outside.

“Here you go!”

 He beamed, pressing a cool cup into Megumi’s hands before immediately downing his own. A stray trickle of water ran down his chin, and he wiped it away with the back of his hand before finally sinking down beside Megumi with a content sigh.

“Feeling better?” He turned to look at him, softer now. “I can help you back to your room if you want.”

It was funny how two childhood friends reunited as adults could feel so connected -- and connected beyond the platonic feelings they shared as mud covered children. Mud covered seemed to be a running theme, but it embarrassed Megumi in the present for he, for the first time, wanted to impress and look good. He was suddenly supremely self-conscious of the state of his clothes, the clothes themselves, the sweat coating his skin, and god! how much he must have smelled like sweat and farm animals.

He must have scrubbed himself near raw with mint and flowers in the morning to prevent the smell of body odor, but there was still the smell of sweat! They were on a ranch. Who DIDN'T smell like sweat or worse? Megumi rationally knew this, but what he felt wasn't exactly rational. He was grossed out by his own sweat but seeing Yuji sweat wasn't disgusting. In fact, he could picture tracing the shape of Yuji's muscles and veins, wiping the beads of sweat on his way up to neck. Megumi quickly blinked.

He was in total disbelief he was allowing his mind to wander, and that his mind was wandering in dangerous territory to begin with. Maybe Megumi hit his head and mistook it for something else; head injuries did create confusion and acute lapses in judgement. It wasn't so easy blaming the imaginary when similar thoughts invaded his brain the night prior. Yuji had looked so drunkenly sweet and needy last night. He looked downright heroic and handsome WHILE being sweet in the moment.

“ Maybe in a bit. I should be able to walk. ”

He did not know what would triumph -- his stubbornness or his embarrassment thinking such profane things about a boy who was nothing but sugar and sunshine. In his fit of nerves, he gripped Yuji's hand tightly like a security blanket or like a stress ball. People were supposed to keep still in times of injuries, but Megumi nearly jumped out of his skin when Yuji's other hand landed on his waist. His heart seemed to float higher than heaven. Green eyes widened then relaxed.

He was over reacting. Sunflower was just kind and generous and... he smelled good despite the odor of goat, mud, and sweat. He really DID hit his head. Megumi Fushiguro would have walked away even if it meant paralysis. Megumi Fushiguro would not allow anyone other than a doctor handle him, but there Yuji Itadori was sweeping him off his feet. He felt like a ten pound sack of corn.

The stiffening of his body only caused his lower back to hurt more, and he reacted like a tense spring, jerking his hands up to hold onto his friend.Not since he was a child had he been held and held so easily. Gojo had been more than pleased to throw his tiny ward about and laughed despite Megumi's grumbles. He should be annoyed, but Yuji was only being thoughtful AND.. this was Yuji after all.

“ I'm getting you dirty. ”

Dumbfounded it was the first thing that slipped out of his mouth. Dumbfounded further, he watched Yuji with awe as he easily navigated them out of the pen and to the squares of hay. Kuro walked beside them like the ever vigilant guardian. He didn't want to let Yuji go. Rather, he didn't want to be released, but his hands were shaking when he did release his friend's cotton shirt.

Once seated he removed and set aside his hat, then used his forearm to wipe his brow. His black hair was sticking every which way, but he couldn't bring himself to care. He tenderly sat on one butt cheek, then swiveled around by the waist to touch his lower spine. SHIT. He was already looking weak and grimy, so to hell with it -- he continued to sit on one cheek and began unfastening his belt to lessen the pressure.

“ I swear I'm usually more coordinated than this. It's been years since I've been hurt, and last time a hungry calf was just too eager for some hay. Water... would be good. Thank you, Yuji.... ”

He kept his chin down and gaze towards the grass.

[fateofflames]

This close, Yuji could see every little detail of Megumi’s handsome face—the sharp lines of his nose, the defined cut of his jaw—yet there was still a trace of boyish charm that gave away just how young he still was. There was something elegant about Megumi’s features, something only intensified by the quiet mystery of his personality. His cool, slightly withdrawn aura might have made others assume he wanted to be left alone. But Yuji? Yuji didn’t see coldness when he looked at Megumi. He saw kindness. He saw understanding—deep and unwavering—for every small, cute creature Megumi cared for. And maybe, just maybe, for him too.

Megumi saw Yuji. Perhaps he was the first person to ever really see him.

Yuji remembers how his friend used to be a little shy, and clearly, that much hadn’t changed. The way Megumi glances away from his gaze makes Yuji smile, a fond warmth spreading through his chest. He isn’t offended. In fact, he finds it utterly endearing. He’s tempted—achingly so—to reach out, to tilt Megumi’s face toward him, to get lost in those breathtaking green eyes and…

And what, Yuji?

Geesh, he needed to get a grip. His hands tighten on the fence, wood creaking under his strength as he forces himself to pull back. Almost reluctantly, he helps Megumi up, his hand settling instinctively at his friend’s waist to steady him. His gaze, still soft with concern, never wavers.

“Can you hop the fence? If not, I can help you. Or do you think you can make it to the gate? We’ll find somewhere for you to sit, and I’ll grab you some cold water.”

Yuji doesn’t even realize that he’s still holding Megumi’s hand. That his arm is practically wrapped around his waist. That he’s way too happy just standing this close, smiling like an absolute fool because—god, Megumi is just so cute. The brim of Megumi’s hat dips low, nearly obscuring both their faces, and that to anyone passing by, this probably looks… Well. A certain way.

“Hang on.”

Yuji doesn’t give Megumi a chance to argue. Deciding he’d rather not risk his friend getting hurt again, he crouches slightly, then lifts Megumi with ease—one arm strong around his thighs as he navigates his way toward the gate. He grips the fence tightly, slipping out quickly before any mischievous goats can make a break for it.

Once outside, he strides over to a soft stack of hay, gently lowering Megumi back onto his feet so he can decide to sit or not, though he stays close, ready to steady him if needed.

“Do you want me to get you some water?”

Kuro, all fifteen goats, the songbirds, and even the damned insects were witness to something spectacularly disastrous. Megumi was at least glad Yuji found some humor in his blunt and crass words, but he didn't know what was worse -- his friend liking his turn of phrase or being disgusted by him. One ended in heart break, the other made him feel like it was the hottest day of summer. Megumi didn't even notice how close Yuji was until PORCUPINE grabbed his attention tighter than a lasso around his ankle.

He didn't want to be rude, but he had been keeping his gaze turned away. When Sunflower uttered something so intimate, said Porcupine just had to look. Shyly of course. Weary green eyes looking soft behind long black eyelashes. Megumi was nothing but dark colors while Yuji shone under the light of the sun. Tan skin and pink hair that twinkled with the pre-noon rays. He was radiant beyond radiant. A cache of gold was nothing compared to Yuji Itadori. Megumi's throat suddenly felt tight and dry, and that was even before his friend touched his cheek.

It was more that he was wiping the mud away, but Megumi opted to view it as his cheek being touched tenderly. He was melting. Green eyes were so full of love. Was it obvious how smitten the man was? And Yuji was so close. SO CLOSE. Practically pinning him to the spot. It made Megumi feel odd like the strange dreams he had while going through puberty. Even then he had not wanted anyone but the body and the mind put strange images in his head anyway; it had been weird sensations above concrete images. Megumi had never kissed anyone. In fact, he never even saw anyone kiss, but he wanted to smash himself against Yuji. Wait.. he had to reply. Megumi looked to the side shyly.

“ Y-yeah... I think I bruised myself... that's all. My-- legs. ”

Tailbone was too embarrassing as if getting injured wasn't embarrassing enough. He didn't want to look weak AND dirty; he especially didn't want his tail to seem fragile. Whatever in tarnation that implied. Megumi looked enough just to take n Yuji's extended hand, but then his gaze wandered up those strong hands, to his wrists, well-toned and tan forearms up to those bulging!! Megumi cleared his throat and took Yuji's hand.

“ I just need some cold water. ”

[fateofflames]

Having worked here long enough and being someone who loved animals in general, Yuji was far from offended when the goats tried to nibble on him. If anything, he found it amusing, a light chuckle escaping his lips as the tiny mouths tickled against his skin. He reached out, gently stroking Biscuit’s soft fur before offering affectionate pets to the other curious goats that had gathered around him. Eventually, he moved away from them, his focus shifting toward their caretaker.

Yuji pushed aside the lingering shyness still clinging to him from the night before and this morning—or, at least, he tried to. Now, he stood with one hand placed on either side of Megumi, gripping the fence as if unintentionally trapping him in place. To an outsider, it might look like something entirely different, but Yuji was far too lost in the depths of Megumi’s beautiful green eyes to care about what anyone else thought. He was captivated—completely and utterly mesmerized by the striking features before him. Megumi was gorgeous. Handsome.

For a fleeting moment, a silent yearning flickered through Yuji’s hazel eyes. It stirred something unfamiliar deep in his chest—something he didn’t quite understand yet. He wanted… What did he want from Megumi, exactly? He already had the promise of rekindled friendship, of spending time together again. That should be enough. Shouldn’t it?

A loud laugh spilled from Yuji as Megumi explained why the mud was so ridiculously slippery. His grin remained in place even as he adjusted his stance, trying to keep himself from slipping while also realizing just how close they were. He hesitated just briefly before attempting to straighten himself, though he made sure not to pull away too much. He still wanted to be near Megumi. He still wanted to make sure he was okay.

“You sure you’re okay, Porcupine?”

Yuji asked, voice laced with concern, though the affectionate teasing remained. He extended his hand toward Megumi, not entirely certain of the extent of his injuries but more than ready to carry him if it came down to it. That’s what friends were for, right? Even so, Yuji couldn’t seem to tear his gaze away from Megumi’s face. His fingers moved before he could think better of it, reaching up with audacity to wipe a small smudge of mud from Megumi’s cheek. Not that Yuji looked any better.

“Can you get up?” he asked softly. “It’s okay if you can’t. Maybe you just knocked the wind out of yourself.”

Yuji remained patient, his outstretched hand unwavering as he waited for Megumi to take it. His other hand tightened its grip on the fence, the strain causing his biceps to flex beneath the rolled-up sleeves of his shirt.

Against mud and dirt, it would be impossible not to hear the approach of footsteps especially those with a little more weight and pep. Kuro heard and smelled Yuji's approach far before Megumi and had turned his head to watch the pink haired ranch hand. The horse snorted and moved her head, like she was trying to tell Yuji to come over urgently. Kuro had been in Megumi's life since she was a newborn foal. Though he was beyond touched that he had formed such a close bond with his mount, it made him embarrassed right now. He should've just climbed on top of her and ridden off to the main house.

Luckily it wasn't just Kuro, Yuji, and Megumi. The numerous goats were the perfect distraction. All of them were mischievous, but they somehow knew better than to mess with their injured caretaker. Yuji however was fresh meat, and with hair like that all their attention was caught. Biscuit, the most mischievous of the bunch, must have thought all that pink hair were sweet cakes or flowers. All of them had grown tired of Megumi's boring black spikes; he didn't blame them and was more than thankful for the distraction. Yuji was far more appealing.

Megumi was still trying to gather his footing and look composed... of course he was failing tremendously. He tried to stand up a little taller but pain flaring up his back kept him relatively still. He turned his head to look at Yuji and was about to reassure him he was more than fine, then the innocent farm hand slipped on the mud and tumbled onto the fence beside him. The MUD was definitely slippery. Megumi's cheeks tinted pink, and it wasn't due to the heat. He wiped his black hair against his sweaty brow and the strands stuck to the underside of his wide-brimmed hat. He saw Yuji's smile but failed to notice the touch of embarrassment. It all looked sweet and handsome. VERY handsome.

“ Goat pee. ”

The bluntness of his own answer made him flinch. Twice embarrassed now. Kuro nudged Megumi's face lovingly, and the man straightened his back slightly to reassure the mount. To reassure both Kuro and Yuji. He released a slow and deep breath. It was obvious he wasn't fine, but he wasn't terribly injured.

“ I'm okay, just taking a rest. It's fine. ”

His lie could have possibly pulled for the truth if he was sweating so much and filthy. How embarrassing. Kuro should just kick him in the head and end it all.

[fateofflames]

Yuji thought keeping busy with his daily chores would help keep his mind off things, but somehow, Megumi still managed to slip into his thoughts throughout the day. He carried heavy equipment and food, cleaned out some stables, learned a few new tricks from the other ranch hands, and rounded up the cattle with the herding dogs. Task after task, the day carried on, yet he couldn’t shake the image of a certain pair of green eyes.

It wasn't just the thought of how embarrassing it was that he got drunk so easily in front of Megumi, but all the feelings hanging out with his friend seemed to have suddenly brought forward. New feelings he wasn't quite used to. Yuji was friendly and easy going, he liked most people but it wasn't the same. It wasn't the same way he liked Megumi and he knew that. He wasn't that dense... he could at least understand his own feelings to an extent.

The fact that he had shared a bed with his friend lingered in his mind, and maybe—just maybe—he had enjoyed it a little too much. And now? Now, he couldn’t stop thinking about said friend. Yuji groaned, rubbing his face, drawing puzzled looks from nearby ranch hands and a few animals. Quickly, he straightened up, forcing himself to focus on his work. If he could just stop thinking altogether, that would be great.

As he made his way past the pens, carrying two buckets of water for the animals, he caught sight of Megumi slipping in the mud. He was still a distance away, so by the time he rushed over—hopping the fence and nearly slipping himself, much to the distress of the nearby goats—Megumi had already settled on the planks.

Yuji, already covered in dirt from the long day, hesitated to get too close. Instead, he squatted in front of his friend, concern filling his big hazel eyes.

“Hey, are you okay?”

Before Megumi could answer, a mischievous goat ambled up and took a curious nibble at Yuji’s pink hair. He chuckled, swatting the animal away, then stood—only to lose his footing for a moment. He barely managed to catch himself on the fence, ending up closer to Megumi than intended.

Flashing an embarrassed but undeniably sweet smile, Yuji steadied himself.

“Why is the mud extra slippery today?”

Just like dinner before and the first time the two boys shared a meal, Megumi's chest and stomach felt tight. Tight with the implications of his feelings. Tight with a feeling of happiness and BELONGING. Satoru Gojo had been his one and only family ever since he ran away, and for the first time Megumi was ready to welcome someone else as part of his family. The boy who had slipped through his fingers more than a decade ago though it really had been all of Megumi's fault. Everything worked out for the best as if fate was a real thing.

The boy has escaped from his treacherous family and found a new one full of hope and opportunity, and now Yuji Itadori was back in his life. He hoped it was for good. Megumi hardly felt anything in gradients of grey. He either liked someone or did not like someone. Now he liked Yuji, really really liked Yuji, and craved spending time with him. Breakfast went by too short for his liking.

All of them were better off getting to work especially Yuji to avoid rumors or suspicion from the other ranch employees, but the pink haired man's departure felt sad. Megumi played it off with a polite good-bye. Of course Satoru had been all waves and smiles to the moment the front door shut. When Megumi's green eyes look over, his mentor's deep blue had already been on him. Incredibly probing. Knowing.

But he didn't know everything. It was impossible. His ward frowned, finished the last of his juice, and wiped his mouth with the cloth napkin before excusing himself. He knew Satoru had a slew of questions. Rather, a slew of statements, and Megumi didn't want to hear any of it. He was already confused and feeling guilty over his feelings and desires. He didn't say much of an exit greeting before he was in his work boots and out the front door.

At the personal stable, he did his morning routine of feeding Kuro some treats and brushing the luxurious black hair until silk itself would be envious. It was difficult performing all his tasks what with Yuji on his mind. Sunflower. He saw his friend's silhouette on occasion, even heard his name being called from a distance. Aside from that Megumi tended to his animals. Would it be too early to ask Yuji for another shared lunch? Another dinner? Dinner would just egg on Satoru. Could this be considered obsessive behavior?

Was it creepy? Was it -- too preoccupied with his thoughts, Megumi slipped on some mud and crashed hard on the ground. The goats came over to check on him... or play with him. Megumi suppressed a groan. That was going to bruise. When he tried to get up, even using one of his friendliest goats as support, pain in his lower back caused him to fall back down. Terrific. Kuro snorted from outside the pen and stamped the ground anxiously but there nothing the horse could do from outside the pen. Megumi crawled to the fence line and used the wood to pull himself up to his feet. Kuro approached and nuzzled his sweat slick neck.

“ I'm alright. It's okay. ”

He reassured his mount, but he took the time to sit down on one of the planks which was painful in itself. He needed to look fine despite being... filthy. Megumi turned around and rested his weight on his arms and knees. The overhead sun suddenly feeling like it was making the air twenty degrees hotter. He just needed to rest for a few minutes, that was all. Then, he would climb onto Kuro and head for the main house for a much needed wash and change of clothes. Hopefully they had ice in the ice chest.

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Yuji shouldn’t be surprised when Megumi reveals that he doesn’t talk much to the others. After all, his friend has always been quiet and reserved. He seems like the type to keep everyone at arm’s length, yet he’s always there when you need him. Maybe he was just a little slow to open up, or maybe the others simply hadn’t tried hard enough to truly get to know him.

Yuji tilts his head slightly as he listens, a small smile tugging at his lips. Megumi was so effortlessly cool—like Gojo-sensei. He didn’t have to try; he just was. And even though they were complete opposites, there was something similar about them. They were both people Yuji admired—powerful, confident, and undeniably cool. More than that, they were the ones who had saved him, who had given him a chance. He wanted to be more like them, to make them proud. But above all, he wanted to protect them. Even if Megumi acted indifferent toward Gojo’s antics, it was obvious he still cared in his own quiet way.

“Yeah, Gojo-sensei did tell me a bit about you when I was hiding and couldn’t go out much,” Yuji says, his tone light but curious. “He told me a little about the others too. I just assumed all of you were close. Everyone seems pretty cool, though—not gonna lie. Maki seems a little scary. She wants to train me, but… should I be worried?”

Yuji chuckles, rubbing the back of his neck as he goes on a small rant about his first impressions of the others. He’s hit it off with Toge Inumaki; they share a similar sense of humor. Panda is friendly and easygoing. He turns to Megumi, tilting his head slightly.

“How about Yuta Okkotsu? Is he really as strong as everyone says?”

As they talk, Yuji rubs Kuro's ears and head, his fingers threading through the dog's fur without even realizing it. There’s something soothing about Megumi’s shikigamis—something steady, like their owner. He only snaps out of his trance when Megumi suggests they get going.

“Oh, right! Let me just finish cleaning up.”

Yuji quickly stands, gathering their dishes and heading to the sink. He washes everything with practiced ease, making sure the kitchen is spotless before they head out.

The food and his divine dog were great distractions. He could speak more easily when a set of honeyed eyes weren't directed at him constantly though those eyes were handsome, beautiful even. Megumi wished they didn't make him nervous otherwise he could swim in them until -- well, until he couldn't any more. For the first time since Tsumiki fell into a coma, he felt connected to someone.

Even then it was different than the connection he had with his sister. He loved her and would protect her no matter what, but it was a connection made out of necessity and desperation. If the two children had stable homes and loving parents it was unlikely Megumi would have stuck at her side. Yuji Itadori brought out the lover in him. The needy in him. He wanted a genuine connection with another human for the first time in his life.

He wanted to be close as siblings only not siblings. He would take it of course, but his heart told him it was not a familial relationship he desired. Maybe Megumi was just lonely. Maybe Megumi felt that doom was incoming. Maybe Megumi was actually in love. Shikigami didn't need to eat but Kuro acted like a normal dog and ate the food Yuji offered in one bite (gently) and even licked the boy's fingers.

“ I don't talk much to anyone. We talk as much as we need to. Them more than me. Panda-senpai especially. Gojo-sensei I'm sure has told them more about me than I have about myself... ”

He sounded lame. Megumi was convinced he was lame. It never bothered him before. Megumi was Megumi. A sorcerer. He never wanted anything more or expected it from the world. Suddenly he was embarrassed how plain he was. No friends and no aspirations. How attractive. The boy's saving grace was his shikigami; he used it as much as a distraction as he did to give himself dimension. Yuji probably had hobbies and lots of friends he left behind.

And that blush. Megumi's heart swelled and he had to refrain from smiling. Green eyes softened and he loved the sight. Did he say something that surprising? That... revealing? Yuji was the most handsome boy -- man in all of the world, Megumi was convinced. He wanted to touch those rosy cheeks. The spiky haired sorcerer turned down to his food and hurriedly finished it up. He spoke when his mouth was free of food.

“ Cooking is nice... for families... Gojo never cooked much. ”

He didn't know what else to say.

“ .....Should we get going? ”

[fateofflames]

It was one thing to be children playing and running through the forest, not giving a hoot about family status or where they each came from. But they weren’t kids anymore. It wasn't that Yuji saw Megumi any different now that he knew his friend came from a family that was better off than he was growing up. Still, he reckoned he ought to be more mindful of what other folks might think if they see him hanging around Megumi too much.

Mr. Gojo sure didn’t seem to give a damn, but that was just his way—never much for caring what others thought, or at least that’s how it appeared to Yuji. Truth be told, Gojo was someone Yuji looked up to. Not having much family of his own growing up, he figured the man was about as close as he’d ever get to having an older brother.

Even knowing Mr. Gojo probably wouldn’t bat an eye at him staying the night, Yuji still felt his face heat up as they all gathered around the breakfast table. He kept his eyes low, real sheepish-like, only to damn near choke on his own spit when Megumi went and called him out for being drunk last night. It was the truth, sure, but that didn’t make it any less embarrassing. Yuji just grinned through it, mumbling his thanks for their hospitality as he shyly loaded up his plate.

Now, Yuji always ate quicker than a jackrabbit on a hot skillet, but today? Today might have been a record. He cleaned his plate, downed his juice, and just like that, he was pushing back his chair.

“Appreciate the breakfast,” he said, already making a beeline for the door. But he hesitated a second, glancing at Megumi with a grin. “I’ll see ya later!”

With a quick wave, he hightailed it out of there, hauling ass back to his room to throw on his work clothes—some well-worn jeans and a button-up shirt. When he finally showed up for his duties, the other ranch hands shot him some curious looks, but he ignored them as best he could. He had work to do, after all.

Still, as he went about his chores, his thoughts kept drifting elsewhere. Wondering when hed get to spend more time with Megumi again.

Megumi was frightened keeping Yuji at an arm's distance away with the truth would backfire like a faulty rifle but the truth was the truth. Yuji's heart was pure and filled with good intentions. It was a shame the whole world wasn't like that. If it was then the two of them could... No. Yuji was his friend at best. A childhood friend who entered his life.

And just because Megumi suddenly felt strong compulsions to touch and hold Yuji didn't mean it could ever develop into such. He didn't know where these feelings came from. Yuji was basically a stranger. Except he was just as kind, energetic, and loveable as he was as a small child. Even the way he ran down the stairs to meet Megumi reminded him of their childhood.

--- "Sorry I kept you waiting!" Megumi had been waiting for near an hour but for a boy it felt longer. Yes, he had looking for animals and bugs but he had been waiting for Yuji. He had worried that the boy had gotten sick of him or worse, maybe he was lost or hurt. They were meeting up in a new spot this time but there came Yuji running down the trail with a big smile and rosy cheeks. Megumi felt elated but it didn't show. He was stoic as usual but if anyone looked closely there was nothing cold about him. Yuji's face filled his eyes and filled his heart. He waited until his best friend was in front of him before he outstretched his hand. Megumi had found and caught a yellow and pink butterfly, and held it gently all the while waiting for Sunflower. He worried he killed the poor thing while waiting for his friend but when his little fingers pried apart, there sat the butterfly. It sat still just enough time for Yuji to see before it was off, fluttering around their faces, and taking off to the sky. No doubt it was happy to be free.

Sunflower was still a boy inside a man's body and... what a body it was. He had slept in those clothes but he still looked handsome. Megumi nodded and led Yuji to the dinning room even though they had supped there the night prior. It was only polite. Little did Yuji know that Megumi would wait a lifetime for him. Friend or no. Lover or no... His green eyes peeked over at Yuji before Satoru's loud voice boomed throughout the entire first level.

"And here's Megumi and oh, Yuji is here!" As if Satoru didn't know. There was a place set for Yuji at the table, but the white haired ranch owner looked at the merry boy up and down as if he was trying to asses something. Megumi's guts clenched tight and his cheeks nearly flushed with anxiety. He kept it cool or tried to anyway.

“ I insisted Yuji stay the night in the guest bedroom. I didn't want the new ranch hand breaking his skull after a night of drinking. ”

He sounded cold and callous. He HAD to in order to hide his anxiety. He gestured towards the seat Yuji would take before taking his own and he was little of a rush to gulp down some freshly squeezed orange juice. Satoru kept watching them both from behind his sunglasses but didn't press it. The ranch owner passed around a woven basket full of fresh baked biscuits; so fresh they were steaming. "Business savvy as ever, my little ward."

Megumi stopped buttering his biscuit to glare at his mentor and Satoru smiled back at him with that shit-eating grin expression. The man needed a swift kick to the shins, not that Megumi would be the one to do so.

“ Help yourself, Yuji, but you should get back to your quarters before it gets too late. Long day of work ahead of us. ”

[fateofflames]

26 Days to go until Netflix Devil May Cry Series airs, cannot wait ^^ Thank you to @dmccountdown for hosting this event ^^

Don't forget to check out the lovely artists and writers who are taking part in this event!

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Big fan of whatever this dynamic is

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Finally finished my Silmarillion doodle (it’s only been like 4 months shhh) - some good ol’ fashioned Russingon angst.

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He is so silly little boy