Archive of Our Own

It was over so suddenly. Almost too quickly for all of the bullshit he had caused. Josuke had been expecting a bit more of a literal bang. There was almost something that felt too easy about it, like it somehow wasn’t over. But Kira was most definitely dead as a doornail, his head now resembling a very pulpy watermelon. He had lost, and Morioh had won.

Now that was cause for a celebratory high five if there ever was one, but as Josuke went to raise his arm to give what would surely be the most triumphant of fist bumps to whoever was standing next to him, the world was suddenly went sideways and he remembered that shit I’ve lost a lot of blood.

“I gotcha!” Okuyasu caught him just before his ass hit the pavement. He sat him down carefully, kneeling beside him. “Yeah, you’re pretty hurt.”

Josuke could literally feel the adrenaline draining out of his body only to be replaced by swoops of pain but his heart was still going a million miles a minute. Nearly 8000 things were going on but Josuke was focused on just one of ‘em. Okuyasu was ok. One moment he was here, then gone then back again and what did it matter if Josuke had a giant piece of wood stuck in his leg when Okuyasu was ok. “Nah, nah man I’m fine.”

“No, you’re still bleeding.” Jotaro said. “Good thing there is an ambulance already here.”

“What? No, no I don’t need an ambulance I’m fine.” Josuke stared at Okuyasu’s chest as the other boy rested his hand on Josuke’s shoulder. No gaping hole. Josuke had fixed it. He hadn’t for a while though, it hadn’t worked. Just like with Gramps. Josuke thought, remembering just how fucking futile that had been. But Okuyasu was back. it was a miracle, it had to be. It had to be real, right?

“Excuse me, sir!?” A medic was hurrying towards them, “Were you hurt in the gas explosion?”

“What? No, I mean yes! but~”

Jotaro spoke over him and before Josuke could protest or really grasp what was going on he was in the back of an ambulance, on his way to the hospital he had crashed into with a motorcycle only a few weeks ago. Jotaro sat opposite of him as a medic wrestled Josuke out of his jacket and started outfitting him with a startling number of syringes.

“Why are you tagging along? Where’s everyone else going? What’re they doin? Okuyasu? Koichi? That kid? Okuyasu? What’s going on?” Josuke liked to think of himself as a pretty chill guy, but this was enough to make anyone frantic, right?

“To answer your first question.” Jotaro said evenly. Not that his tone was anything other than even. “I’m an adult, you are a minor and my relative. It is only right that I accompany you to the hospital since your mother is unavailable.”

“Yeah, but I'm your Uncle.”

The medic perked up and Josuke watched his eyes slowly travel between the two other men. “Yes, but I am still eleven years older then you, and I’m responsible for your wellbeing. And I told your friends to go home or to school. There was no reason for them to linger.”

“Yeah fine but are they alright? Everything’s kind of a blur I mean…”

“You are the only one who wound up getting hurt. Congratulations.”

Josuke rolled his eyes. “So Okuyasu, he’s good?”

“Perfectly fine.”

“Cause he got hurt you know? I fixed him, but it didn’t really work at first.” Josuke laughed and it sounded weird and nervous to his own ears. “Thought Crazy Diamond was malfunctioning or something. Do Stands do that? Can they like…break?”

“Calm down, Josuke.” Jotaro said with a meaningful look towards the medic. Josuke zipped his lip and sank down into the stretcher. He didn’t wanna think about it, but it was the only thing he could think of. That giant, gaping hole in Okuyasu’s side. How heavy and limp he had been in his arms and how that kid kept yelling at him to leave him, that he was already dead and there was nothing he could do about it.

I knew he was dead. Josuke looked down at his hands. They were all cut up and ugly. He’d never been so quiet before. Did he go home, like Jotaro said? I hate thinkin’ about him in that big old lonely house, with only his old man there. And he aint much for company.

The receptionist was the same one Josuke had terrorized with his motorcycle accompanied entrance. She had a look that said “I’m not at all surprised you’re back here and like this”, which Josuke found to be pretty unnecessary. He wasn’t really a punk. He got average grades and ate all his vegetables. A good, honest boy, that’s what his mom said about him to the neighbors.

And this good, honest boy hated hospitals. He could barely remember those weeks he spent in one back when he was four, but he could almost see those awful white walls and the tubes coming in and out of his body like he was a science experiment like Frankenstein, or some shit. Luckily for him, he was just pretty banged up. He didn’t need any surgery or to stay overnight for any weird tests. He’d be out in a few hours if he wanted, the nurse promised. He still had to put on the goddamn gown and get in an uncomfortable bed though. They spared him a catheter, at least.

“I just got off the phone with your mother.” Jotaro walked back into the room, his coat swishing in a dramatic and nonexistent wind. “She will be here in a little while to take you home.”

“Ah, that’s awesome.” Josuke smiled. “You know what else is awesome?” He waved his arms around. They felt like they were made out of Tonio’s best spaghetti. “These painkillers!”

“Ah, he should calm down in a few minutes.” The nurse said pleasantly, moving Josukes hands back to his lap. “The sedatives will knock him out for the rest of the day. He can get away with over the counter medicine after today. You are his…brother?”

“Lady, that’s my little nephew!” Josuke laughed.

The nurse just blinked and patted Josuke’s hand. Josuke loved telling people about their strange relationship circumstances. Jotaro seemed embarrassed every time he did it and today, even after everything that went down, was no exception.

“So is he all stitched up?” Jotaro asked, ignoring Josuke as hard as he could.

“Mmhmm. He bled a lot, but the wounds were all pretty shallow. That was a nasty gas explosion. I swear, these newer houses were built so unsafely!”

“Mmm.”

“The home owners are gonna be in a heap of trouble if it turns out they knew they had some shoddy system going!”

“Mm.”

“Especially if you sue!”

“M.”

“I could sue eh?” Josuke rubbed his hands together. “Lotsa money in that.”

“You’re not suing.” Jotaro said solemnly, as if Josuke had actually been thinking about. He hadn’t really, not at all. “Alright then, your mom should be here soon. I’m heading back to the hotel. I need to talk the Speedwagon Foundation immediately.”

“Aw man, you’re just leaving me?”

“You’ll be alright. Or do you really need your little nephew around to keep you company?”

Josuke huffed and crossed his arms. “Fine, it’s whatever. I’m perfectly cool.”

He watched his actually very large nephew saunter out of the room. The nurse adjusted his syringes and smiled at him pleasantly. “Now then you should be good to go in about an hour. How are you feeling?”

Josuke looked at the bag of morphine hanging above his head. “Fantastic!”

“Excellent! What a good patient. Here I’ll leave the t.v on for you.” The nurse waved before she stepped out and

Josuke’s smile immediately fell. The pain killers had him feeling like he was made of cotton balls and sugar floss but nothing in his head felt good. How was Jotaro so calm and casual about what just happened? Sure, this wasn’t his first rodeo, and weird shit had been going for the past few months but Kira was dead. Josuke had almost died! Okuyasu had died! Jotaro acted like he had just filed his taxes or something.

Josuke looked down at his hands again. He had been useless back there. Just for a moment he had fucked up so bad if Okuyasu hadn’t had the willpower to force himself back to earth he’d be gone. And it be all Josuke’s fault.

This is stupid. He thought, flipping through all eight channels the hospital offered at an alarming speed. He’s fine, it worked out, like it always does. We won. We don’t gotta worry about Kira anymore. Josuke rubbed at the bandages on his arm. He was gonna hurt like a bitch after the drugs wore off. But this was so close to being so bad. Why do I feel so damn scared?

He stared at the tv for a while, not really paying attention to what was going on but the noise was nice. He wanted to forget the sound of the explosions. He started feeling sleepy and warm from the medicine and his eyes got heavier and heavier until the door swung open so loudly he swore he had three separate heart attacks.

“Oh Josuke!” Tomoko charged in, handbag nearly smacking the nurse in the face. “Oh you horrible boy! I was so worried!”

“Hey it’s not my fault there was…a gas explosion.” Josuke grunted as his mom cupped his face and kissed his forehead. “I’m sorry I made you worry.” He added sheepishly.

“Oh I’m just glad you are alright sweetheart, don’t apologize.” She pinched his cheeks. “You poor thing. You’ve been getting so hurt lately! I know you’re sixteen but you aren’t indestructible!”

“I know Mom I know.” Josuke rubbed at the back of his head. Josuke caught some movement by the door and glanced over, almost expecting it to be Jotaro, corroded by his guilt at leaving a poor injured boy all alone, but it was Okuyasu. “Hey, dude, what’re you doin over there?”

“He came over to the house to tell me what happened.” Tomoko explained, fussing with Josukes hair. It was then, to his utter horror, he realized it had come undone. “He was so anxious about you I brought him with me.”

“Aw, you were ‘anxious’?” Josuke teased as Okuyasu made his way over. Sometimes it still amazed Josuke that the shiftiest looking guy in town was actually the absolute nicest. Well, maybe second to Koichi but he looked the part so it wasn’t too impressive. No, scratch that, Okuyasu was the best guy in town.

“Hey, I know you don’t like hospitals!” He huffed, sitting down by Josuke’s legs. Josuke hid a nervous gulp. “And I’m getting to skip school, so I'm not complainin’.”

Josuke tried not to smile too big. He just wanted to stare at Okuyasu as he moved and talked and emoted for hours until he was convinced he was actually here. “Whatever, you’re just the biggest softie.”

“Yeah? And you’re wearing a backless dress so don’t come for me.”

“Man they let me keep my boxers on!”

Tomoko smiled at the two of them. “Don’t get him wound up, Okuyasu. We need to get him back home so he can rest.”

Josuke groaned. “At least it’s the weekend.”

“You’re still gonna miss half-day tomorrow though.” Okuyasu helpfully reminded him.

They sat there for a while, Josuke and Okuyasu laughing over things that didn’t matter while Tomoko filled out a crossword puzzle. Josuke had to restrain himself from reaching out and touching his friend. He just had to be sure that this was real, that he wasn’t dreaming. He felt like if he grabbed his hand he would dissolve into smoke.

The nurse eventually came back to remove Josuke’s iv’s and set him free. She escorted Tomoko to the reception to sort out his discharge and Okuyasu dumped Josuke’s clothes on his lap. “So this is like, the good stuff?” He said, pointing at the morphine bag.

“Man, I’m floating. It’s like when we stole that sake from Rohan.”

“And he never found out who did it!” Okuyasu clapped his hand down on Josukes shoulder then pulled back too quickly. “Dude, did that hurt?”

“Nah, I’m good.” Josuke mumbled, taking the hospital gown off.

Okuyasu winced as he looked at the bandages. “Man, you’re really fucked up. Those look painful. Kira was such a fucking prick. But we got ‘em!” Okuyasu held his fist up and Josuke gently bumped his hand against his. He didn’t disappear. Josuke felt the heat of his skin and his heart thudded. “That scumbag can't hurt anyone else.”

“Yeah…yeah I don’t wanna talk about him right now.” Josuke said. He was so sleepy and thinking about Kira made him sick to his stomach. Thinking about what he did to you, really, Josuke seethed. The bastard had turned Okuyasu into a bomb. Who did that!? What kinda monster could do something like that to Okuyasu of all people?! Josuke struggled with getting his shirt over his head until Okuyasu had to step in.

“Think you can manage the pants?” He said, nudging him as gently as he could.

“Dude, fuck off.”

He did manage the pants, but Josuke gave up trying to put on his jacket. Walking proved to be a new challenge all together and they ended up needing to wait for the nurse to come back with a wheelchair. They then discovered that hospital corridors did have a speed limit, and that they mightily enforced by the janitor with the leaky eye.

Josuke got the entire back seat of the minivan to himself to sprawl out. He listened to Tomoko and Okuyasu carry on a pleasant conversation about school. He groaned. He guessed things would go back to normal, where exams were his biggest concern. He supposed that was better than worrying about dying but it sure as hell wasn’t cooler.

“Here we are!” Tomoko announced about thirty minutes later. “Home sweet home!”

“Are you sure I can't just stay here?” Josuke yawned. “The drugs are takin like everything outta me.”

“‘Help me I’m such a little baby.” Okuyasu mocked Josuke in a high pitched squeak. Josuke let the other boy hoist him out of the car and wrapped his arm around his shoulder. They giggled as they tried to make their way into the house, but it was kinda like trying to win a three legged race while drunk and also without legs.

“Josuke!” Tomoko called from the car. “I’m gonna go run to the store and get some stuff to make your favorite dinner!”

“Hamburgers?” He perked up at that. “Can Okuyasu stay over?”

“Of course! He’s always welcome you know that.”

The other boy fist pumped as Tomoko backed out of the drive way. Josuke had learned that Okuyasu was actually a pretty good cook, but the other boy still preferred it when others made food for him. Josuke had once managed to burn pasta in an attempt to impress the other boy.

 It was a challenge getting to Josuke’s room, with Josuke’s noodle legs and how he kept breaking down laughing which made Okuyasu lose it, and then almost drop Josuke. “Ah fuck it.” Okuyasu suddenly scooped Josuke up in his arms, bridal style. Josuke shut up immediately and stared up at his friend with a look that he hoped said, dude what the fuck? Instead of you’re making all my weird dreams come true. “Man, you’re heavier then you look.” He grunted, making his way up the stairs.

“Wow, harsh.” Josuke licked his lips. His heart was starting to beat in his throat. It hurt “It’s just all my muscles. Muscles weigh more than fat.”

“Huh? Really?”

“Bio 101!”

He just sneered and kicked the door open to Josuke’s bedroom. It was messier than usual, and his bed was still unmade. It really had been just this morning he got that phone call from Hayato. He hoped that kid and his mom would be ok. Okuyasu carefully set Josuke down on his bed, and sat next to him. It all felt so nice, and normal. If Josuke had just been a little slower, or if Okuyasu didn’t love Morioh so much, this simple moment wouldn’t be possible. Josuke would probably be dead anyway, if he hadn't had Okuyasu to step in and save his ass.

Josuke took a deep breath. Every bit of adrenaline and excitement were completely gone. The medicine was sitting heavy in his veins and it was making him feel kinda weird, not really himself. He was tired. And not just from the stupid drugs. He glanced at Okuyasu, rambling about their upcoming English test that he was 100% sure he was gonna fail. What the hell would Josuke had done with himself if he had stayed dead? He hadn’t had any time to really mourn him, just a few seconds there in that house. But that was when he had realized how much he had lost, and just how fucking much the guy meant to him. It had tore at him worse than anything, and it hadn’t just made him angry like shit normally did. It made him feel terrified, and sad and alone. Josuke felt his lip quiver as he started feeling all of that again, like it had just happened. He swallowed convulsively, trying to keep it down, but now that he was home, and everything was done, Josuke was finally feeling his heart retroactively break.

“Alright, I’m gonna go get a snack. You probably wanna sleep right?” Okuyasu said, getting up. Josuke couldn’t stop himself and grabbed onto his sleeve.

“Don’t go.”

Okuyasu raised his eyebrows at him, making him even more bug eyed. “Hah?”

“Man, don’t leave.” Josuke bit his lip, trying to stop himself. Cause this wasn’t like him. Sure, he had a temper, but Josuke Fucking Higashikata didn’t start blubbering over stupid shit and cling to peoples arms and barf his feelings all over them.

First time for everything, he guessed.

“You died, dude.” Josuke said, his voice shaking. He sniffed loudly, and felt hot tears on his face. “I fucking watched you die and when I couldn’t heal you…I…I…” He clenched his jaw and dropped his head so Okuyasu couldn’t see how pathetic he was being. “No, never mind.”

“I’m ok though, Josuke.” Okuyasu sat back down and rested his hands on Josuke’s arms. “See? Man look at me.” Josuke did, really starting to lose it now. This was humiliating, but fuck it, he was upset. “You did fix me up! It just took me a while to get my ass in gear.”

“But you don’t get it!” Josuke exclaimed, startling Okuyasu. “I really thought I lost you! You broke my fucking heart…I had like ten seconds to grieve you but even that was too much! I didn’t think I could survive it…I didn’t know what I was going to do with myself!”  He started to sob. And they were loudly and ugly gasping gulps. Okuyasu stared at him, his fingers starting to press into Josuke’s arms. “That was scary man, its terrifying! And no one seems to realize its fucking killing me to look at you and realize someone like you can fuckin’ die on me. I can't…I don’t wanna ever lose you again.” Josuke looked away. “I’m sorry, I’m acting like a fool. It’s all this medicine I mean I~”

Josuke was shut up as Okuyasu grabbed him around the shoulders and pulled him into a tight, tight hug. Josuke held his breath for a second. They’d hugged before, sure all the time really. But this was close. Josuke could feel just how warm he was through his jacket and when his fingers touched the bare skin of the back of his neck Josuke’s mouth went dry. Okuyasu held tighter, and Josuke broke down, and buried his face in his friend’s chest. Okuyasu climbed onto the bed so Josuke could sit between his legs, and wrap his arms so tightly around his waist.

“I’m sorry buddy. I didn’t realize you were so upset. I mean, I shoulda guessed. You cried a little bit when I came back. I just thought you were happy.”

“I was happy! I am happy…I’ve never been happier.” Josuke sniffed. He could feel and hear Okuyasu’s heartbeat. He let himself sigh a little. He felt safe and sound like this. They were pretty much the same size but Josuke felt kinda small in his friend’s admittedly strong arms. “It’s hard to get over seeing your best friend die. I love you.”

“I love you too.” Josuke felt Okuyasu cautiously touch his hair. It was still too full of product to really stroke but he was trying. “Hey man, I aint ever gonna leave you. See? I’ll even come back to life for ya. Nothings gonna keep me from you.”

“Man stop,” Josuke smiled shakily. “You’re killin’ me. This is so embarrassing. Normally it’s you crying all over me over something lame.”

“Don’t try and act tough right now.” Okuyasu cupped Josukes face and tilted it up. He wiped the tears away with his thumbs and Josuke swallowed nervously. His hands were warm, and a bit calloused, but they felt nice. Way too nice. “It’s all good. The medicine is just makin you a little loopy.”

“I still don’t want you to go.” Josuke said, pulling away from the hug. “If I wake up and you aren’t here I’m gonna think I dreamed it, okay? I’m still not convinced you’re real. I feel like I’m gonna wake up in a hospital and you’ll be dead and I’ll be alone.”

Okuyasu blinked slowly before cautiously patting a bandage on Josuke’s cheek. Josuke had never seen him move so slowly and carefully before. “Hey, anything for you.”

“Don’t say shit like that man.” Josuke said, sitting next to Okuyasu against the headboard. “Everything already kinda feels weird.”

Okuyasu hummed and Josuke rested his head against his shoulder. He looked down at their hands, resting close to each other. I wanna hold his hand so bad. He thought, fingers itchy. I want him to hold me again, why’d I pull back like that? Holy shit I’m an idiot. That’s all I’ve been wantin for months now!

He couldn’t mourn that for too long. He had thoroughly exhausted himself with his shitty display and he passed out almost soon as he closed his eyes.

Josuke slept like the dead. When he woke up, he was confused, thirsty and in incredible pain.

Awww shit shit shit over the counter my fucking ass I’m dyin! He wrenched his eyes open. It was dark in his room. The lights were off, and the curtains were drawn. He had no clue what time it was. His alarm clock laid somewhere on the floor buried under clothes.

Josuke yawned and rolled over, trying to get his weight off his wounds. Okuyasu was sleeping beside him, arms and legs taking up most of the bed. He had taken his jacket off and was snoring softly. When he first started sleeping over they would break out the guest futon, but they eventually realized it made more sense for them to just crash together in Josuke’s bed. It was almost big enough for two large teenage boys. Josuke smiled and rested his cheek on his arm, scooting a bit closer.

The realization that Josuke had a crush on his friend hadn’t really been a shocking one. He figured it out when they were trying to make money with Shingechi’s Harvest. Since he met him he had been having weird tingling feelings over him but they never really congealed until then. He remembered looking over at Okuyasu has he cried over all the money they would have and how he was putting it into savings and all Josuke could think was Wow that’s so cute. And the more he thought about it, the more he realized just how cute Okuyasu was. Josuke liked girls. He thought they were pretty, and interesting, but he had turned down every confession and love letter since elementary school because he couldn’t really see himself dating any of them. He didn’t really have anything in common with the type of girl to approach him, and dating someone he didn’t like didn’t interest him. And he liked Okuyasu a hell of a lot.

After Josuke realized Okuyasu was cute, he started noticing other things about him. It wasn’t hard for him to see why he liked him. He was nice. Just genuinely sweet and goodhearted and happy-go-lucky. And Josuke knew he’d always have his back no matter what and that he could always depend on him to jump in the ring with him. And he laughed at all of Josuke’s jokes and Josuke laughed at his. He also had really nice arms and shoulders, not like Josuke had been lookingg too much. So it was really only natural for Josuke to get a crush on him, anyone would with a guy so great. But he had figured it would fade away after a few months like crushes did. And since he didn’t wanna make things weird for his friend he just shut up about it. It sure made things difficult for Josuke though. All he wanted to do was grab Okuyasu by the arm and kiss him and he was always just inches away from the other boy. He’d had about eight thousand opportunities to lay one on him and he had ignored every single chance.

When Josuke saw Okuyasu collapse, he realized that it wasn’t just some kiddy crush. He had to be in love with him ‘cause his world went completely dark when he lost him.

Okuyasu scrunched up his nose and groaned. After all their sleepovers, Josuke had learned Okuyasu hated waking up with a passion. He rubbed at his eyes as he opened them and Josuke held back a sigh. So cute.

“Hey man, you’re up.” He yawned, turning over. “How long?”

“Just a few minutes. What time is it?”

Okuyasu checked his watch. “6:17.”

“In the evening?”

“Morning dude.”

“Morning!?” Josuke exclaimed. “I slept for like…that’s almost like 20 hours!”

“Yeah you were out man. I left a few times to eat and help your mom with dinner. There’s leftovers for you. I did write you a note though, cause I knew you’d cry if I wasn’t here.”

“Hey!” Josuke said, blushing. “C’mon man, give me a break.” He pouted. “You’re not gonna tell anyone about how freaked I was right?”

“What? Of course not dude. That’s between us.”

“I got my reputation you know? Tough guys like me gotta keep up appearances.” Josuke yawned. “Everything hurts. My leg feels like it’s on fire.”

“Lemme go get you something.” Okuyasu said, getting up. “I’ll be right back.”

“I’ll be here.”

Josuke really hated when Okuyasu just wore his wifebeater. He found it hard to not stare at his arms, and his back and neck and collarbones. Josuke had it, as some called, “bad” for Okuyasu.

Shit, I'm in deep. Josuke thought, staring at his ass as he left the room. He needed to be slapped with some cold water.  I guess this isn’t some stupid crush I can brush off. I’m not gonna get over him, I guess. I wanna be with him, like…completely. All the time.  And Josuke fucking Higashikata gets what he wants. I guess I gotta confess. Josuke snorted to himself. Heh, who woulda thought I’d be on the opposite side of a confession? Josuke yawned and his jaw cracked. I think my odds are pretty good actually. Okuyasu goes on and on about how much he wants a girlfriend, so maybe he’d settle for me. And man, he was sweet to me back there. Josuke touched his cheek, thinking about how Okuyasu had wiped his tears away. Who knew he was so suave? I gotta make it special. He’s a special guy, some behind the gym garbage isn’t good enough for him.

“Here we go!” Okuyasu burst back in, making Josuke jump. “Ah, sorry man.” He sat back beside him, carrying a small tray. There was a class of water, four pills and a small cup of rice and miso. “If you feel up to it, you should eat.” He said, setting it down on his friends lap.

“Dude you made this for me?” Josuke asked, his cheeks getting hot.

“It’s all instant, no big deal.” He said, rubbing the back of his head. His hair was a mess and his eyes were still sleepy.

Josuke still didn’t feel great, but he started to eat anyway after downing the pills. “So did I miss anything important?”

“Well Jotaro stopped by. He and Mr. Joestar are leaving on Monday.”

“Man, they sure are getting the fuck outta here.” Josuke mumbled, taking a sip of the soup. It wasn’t instant, he knew Okuyasu must have cooked up a pot sometime yesterday. He was just being modest.

“The man Kira was impersonating is probably gonna be listed as missing. Hayato said he’d try to explain things to his mom though, without revealing too much, so she’s not waiting for her husband forever.” Okuyasu yawned loudly, leaning back against the mountain of pillows. At any given time Josuke had no less than eight on his bed. “I’m also gonna keep that plant Stand. I picked it up after you left in the ambulance. It’s actually pretty affectionate when it’s not scared. My old man really likes it though; they can be weird and mutated together.”

“Man, you’re too sweet.” Josuke smiled at him. Okuyasu blushed and Josuke felt more confident than ever that his confession would be received well. “Guess I gotta go see my nephew and old man off then after school.”

“Mr. Joestar was talking about having you over at his daughters place in Tokyo at some point, so you could meet the family. You got a sister dude! And a little niece!”

“Yeah, I remember them mentioning something like that. My sis is like…fifty at this point though. She’s older then my mom.” Josuke looked down at the remaining food. “I lost my appetite.” He set the tray down on the floor and sighed loudly. “I almost don’t want things to go back to normal. It’s kinda been fun, yeah?”

“Yeah, but we have no idea how many Stand users Kira’s dad made. I think we’ll be doing clean up for a few more years, you and me.”

Josuke had to give in to it and just hug Okuyasu as tightly as he could. His friend hugged back, his hand coming up to cradle his Josuke’s skull. “I’m so glad you’re not dead dude.”

“Yeah, likewise.”

They laughed and Josuke pressed his cheek into the curve of Okuyasu’s neck. They sat like that for a while, both of them waiting for it to get weird but it didn’t. Things never felt uncomfortable between them. Josuke was a little nauseas from the nerves but it was still nice. Okuyasu didn’t even smell too bad for not showering since yesterday. Josuke could feel himself falling back asleep as the medicine started taking effect but this time he didn’t even bother moving away and lying down. He let himself fall asleep in Okuyasu’s arms, smirking to himself how clever and lucky he was to get to do so.

The weekend passed by quickly. Josuke woke up for real around eleven. He migrated down to the living room wearing his blanket like a kings robe and spent the day watching tv and playing video games, blissfully ignoring his homework and being ever grateful Tomoko was letting him. Okuyasu had been forced to go to class but rushed back as soon as it was done and hung around for most of the day, helping Tomoko around the house and checking constantly on Josuke to be sure he hadn’t spontaneously bled out. Eventually, he had to go home and it kinda crushed Josuke. He was still a little shaken up. It was easier when Okuyasu was always in his sight.

Josuke wasn’t left alone though. Koichi and Yukako stopped by to give him his work from the past two days. He tried to pester them over his feelings for Okuyasu but Yukako insisted they couldn’t stay because they had reservations at Tonio’s. Josuke wondered if Tonio had a meal to fix Yukako’s permanent bitch face. Mikitaka also found his way over, holding about five boquets.

“This is how humans heal themselves, correct? The application of many floral arrangements?”

“Man…you’re kinda close?”

On Sunday, Jotaro and Mr. Joestar stopped by with the baby, who starting to become a bit more opaque. Tomoko was out running errands, and Josuke wondered if Jotaro had somehow arranged that so his parents wouldn’t see each other. Josuke held his adopted sister as Jotaro droned on over how Josuke needed to watch over Morioh, call the Foundation if things were getting out of hand, be on the alert and blah blah. Of course he said this all in like five words. Mr. Joestar stared at Josuke the entire time and it finally prompted him to exclaim.

“What are you looking at, old man?”

“I was just thinking about how Jotaro would have never come out here if I hadn’t taken that picture of that Stand. I was trying to take a picture of you. I wanted to know what you looked like. I wondered if you looked like me, or my dad or my granddad. You do. I’m so proud to have a son like you.”

Josuke’s ears burned and he really didn’t know what to do or say in reply aside from smile warmly at his father.

Josuke was actually looking forward to Monday.  He was eager to figure out how he was gonna go about telling Okuyasu how he was pretty desperately in love with him. He hoped to have a boyfriend by the end of the week, or at least he was looking forward to getting this weight off his chest. Okuyasu was waiting for him by the gate as usual, bright and early Monday morning. Josuke thought about a reality where he’d step onto his porch and no one would be on the other side of the fence and he felt the same sick panic he had on Friday. He hurried forward and threw his arms around Okuyasu as he said good morning.

“Dude,” Okuyasu laughed softly over Josuke’s shoulder. “You alright?”

“Hey man, I'm not gonna look back on my life and think ‘I should have hugged my best friend less’”.

Josuke wondered if he’d ever stop feeling scared and sick of Okuyasu’s ‘death’. He’d been dreaming about it over the weekend. That gaping bloody wound haunted him. He looked at the other boy’s side as he slung an arm around him. No blood, no bone, no torn flesh. But Josuke knew he’d be checking every few hours.

“I guess not.” Okuyasu agreed. “C’mon dude, we gotta go get my ice cream.”

“Yeah, of course.”

Okuyasu’s weekly ritual was one of the endearing things about him. He was so frugal, but he allowed himself one ice cream cone every Monday morning to help him get through the week. Josuke bought it for him this time, ignoring his very loud complaints.

“You helped take care of me this weekend,” Josuke said, pressing the cone into Okuyasu’s outstretched hands. “Just let me thank you.”

“Bro, you don’t gotta repay me in any way. Ride or die, right? I’d do anything for you.”

Josuke managed not to blurt out his true feelings right then and there. His head felt hot and sticky, his mouth cottony. He thought being in love was supposed to be all velvety and sweet but he honestly felt like he needed to puke and then take a long nap.

They were almost late to class, again. They did have their reputations as delinquents to keep up. All throughout their morning classes, Josuke sorted out what he was going to say to Koichi, and how he was gonna get Okuyasu out of the room to do it.

Lunch time finally came around. Josuke normally ate with Koichi and Okuyasu, and sometimes Yukako. He spun around in his chair to face his friend so fast it knocked off most of the papers. He smiled as coolly and casually as he definitely did not feel. “Hey, Okuyasu, I forgot my lunch. Would you go to cafeteria and get me something cheap? I got money. I’d go but my legs actin up.”

Okuyasu smiled brightly at Josuke. Shit, he’s like the fuckin sun. Like I'm gonna go blind or something. “Yeah, no problem dude! I’ll be right back.”

As soon as the door shut behind him Josuke scooted up to Koichi’s desk as quickly as he could. Yukako was opening up two expertly made bento boxes. “It’s not like you to forget food.” Koichi commented. “You sure you didn’t hit your head too hard?”

“Man, I'm fine. It’s just…well I mean, I gotta ask you…I mean I gotta get some advice from you. And Yukako if she wants to jump in. She aint a gossip.”

Yukako looked up from her book for a split second before she seemed to decide she was quite uninterested in Josuke as usual. Koichi cocked his head in that good natured way of his. “So what’s going on?”

“Yeah so, I mean I need some advice. Romance advice. I’m kinda…I got feelings for someone.”

“Okuyasu?”

“Aw? Aw man c’mon you guessed it?” Josuke pouted. “And you aren’t even surprised?”

“To be honest, it’s a little obvious, if you pay attention.” Koichi said, taking a long sip from his juice box. “You stare at him in class with your chin all propped up like you’re in a manga or something.”

“Ok ok, whatever. But Koichi, I'm like in love with the guy. Seriously!” Josuke added to Koichi’s somewhat not convinced face. “It’s driving me kinda nuts, and I need to tell him, but I wanna make it special. And you’re the only person I know whose dating anyone so like, what should I do?”

“Hm? I’m not sure. I’ve never confessed to anyone. Yukako was the one who approached me, you know that.”

“Yeah,” Josuke sighed, leaning back in his chair. He didn’t really think Yukako’s approach would work for him. “I’m at a loss. He’s so great, I’m head over heels for him so he’s gotta know that! No advice man?”

“What’s this all about?” Yukako finally looked up from her book. “Josuke is in love?”

“With Okuyasu, apparently.” Koichi said.

“Unsurprising.” Josuke frowned harder, but Yukako was starting to look somewhat intrigued. “Are you having trouble getting the courage up to tell him? I understand how you feel. I thought I was going to have a heart attack when I told Koichi!”

You tried to force feed him a dictionary. “Kinda, yeah. I'm not a hundred percent sure what he’ll say, but I also wanna be romantic, you know? Really sweep him off his feet!”

“Oh I completely understand!” Yukako set her book down and looked at Josuke. He wondered if this was the first time they ever made eye contact. “Let me help! What does he like to do?”

“Oh man, like a lot of things. He really likes to eat though, ride his motorcycle…he also likes to go to music stores and he loves cats man. He likes the park too, and the beach.”

 “So you should take him out somewhere.” Yukako said, holding her finger up superiorly. “Oh! Can you imagine how lovely it would be to be confessed to under the stars on the beach? He’d be so taken aback! He’d fall right into your arms.”

Josuke clapped his hands together. “Yeah dude! Good idea!” He offered his hand for her to high five and unsurely she did. “Dang, that is romantic. Koichi, you were no help at all dude.”

“Whatever,”

“Josuke, you are so much more likable and interesting when you are in love. I might be able to stomach talking to you if it’s about love and dating.” Yukako was smiling like she had blessed Josuke with a compliment so he just coughed awkwardly and thanked her again.

He watched the two of them eat and flirt for a little while, at their laced fingers sitting on top of the table. Josuke really hadn’t given a crap about dating and all that before. Now all he could about was how nice it be to hear Okuyasu say he liked him back.

He decided to wait until Saturday. That way they’d have all night to uh…hold hands? That week was absolutely agonizing, especially since Jotaro and Mr. Joestar and Reimi left and seemed to take all of the excitement with them. It was back to homework, and chores, and only using Crazy Diamond to fix his books when he dropped them in a puddle.

“You look kinda bored.” He said to his Stand as he pulled it back. “But boredom is better than being dead.”

It was getting really hard for Josuke to be around Okuyasu at this point. Between still dreaming about his death and dreaming about kissing him Josuke felt like his head was gonna split in half whenever they were together, which was all the time. He just desperately wanted to pull him into his arms and make out with him like they did on his mom’s dramas, but he had to wait to execute plan Make Okuyasu Fall In Love With Me.

All week, Josuke and Yukako had been concocting a foolproof confession. Josuke had casually suggested to Okuyasu that they should go have a bonfire on the beach on Saturday to celebrate their victory over Kira and he had enthusiastically agreed, even though he wondered why Koichi and Mikitaka and the like weren’t invited. Yukako had coached him on what to bring. Food he knew Okuyasu liked, a blanket to sit on, but also one in case it got cold. But only one! Yukako had emphasized, So you can share it! He had already rehearsed what he was gonna say a million times, both in front of the mirror and to the neighborhood cat. He was gonna wait until their bonfire was burning low, and the stars were bright and things were quieting down. Then, he’d gently take Okuyasu by the chin and tell him simply and plainly, that he like liked him and he wanted to be with him. He’d kiss him next, and he’d be his for sure.

“Man, I am good.” Josuke said to himself as he fixed his hair up. He had come straight home from school and had spent the last two hours trying on different outfits and fussing with his hair and face. Everything was all packed up, and Yukako had even given him a little good luck charm. Josuke didn’t even mind that she still didn’t really care about him, just his potential romance.

He adjusted his jacket lapels. Was it a bit inappropriate to wear a leather jacket to the beach? Maybe. Did he look hella good? Yes. He was pumped and psyched, as he kicked open the bathroom and strutted into his room.

His jaw fell open in despair. He hadn't noticed while entombed in his windowless bathroom, but it was pouring out. Josuke whined loudly, charging over to his bedroom window. The rain was really coming down. Josuke could barely make out the road.

“But they weren’t callin for rain!” He moaned loudly, banging his fist on the wall. “Unfair!”

“Josuke!” He heard Tomoko call. “Come downstairs, Okuyasu is here!”

“Mom!” Josuke whined as he clambered down. “It’s raining!”

“I can see that.” Josuke hopped into the kitchen and immediately jumped back. Okuyasu was already sitting down at their table, his soaked plaid shirt in the process of being hung up by Tomoko. He had a towel over his head and his hair was starting to fall down and curl.

“Hey man, what happened to you?” Josuke was trying to ignore how goddamn cute Okuyasu looked holding onto his mom’s favorite cat shaped mug.

The other boy laughed a little, the very tips of his ears turning pink. “Well I was out on my lawn fixin my bike for tonight when it just started comin down. I had to get everything back under the tarp and put away and I got…kinda soaked I guess. Also runnin here didn’t help.” He offered Josuke a weak smile and Josuke felt himself all but melt. “I don’t think we’ll be havin that bonfire tonight.”

Josuke’s shoulders fell and he sat beside him, sighing loudly. “Yeah, I think you’re right.”

“Well then, Okuyasu can just stay here tonight.” Tomoko said, holding an old sweater of Josuke’s in her arms. “I don’t want you going back out there.”

Okuyasu nervously laughed and bowed his head as he accepted the pullover. “I only live like three seconds away Ms. Higashikata.”

Tomoko pursed her lips at him in a very ‘mom’ way and Okuyasu agreed to stay. Josuke wondered if it was weird that his mom had practically adopted the guy he wanted to date. “Anyway, there’s leftovers in the fridge. I have a PTA meeting to get to tonight, so I should be back around 8. Behave, you two.”

It’s what she normally asked of them, but with the nature of Josuke’s plans it made him feel emotionally sweaty. Not actually sweaty, because Josuke was cooler than that. Okuyasu saluted her like a nerd as Tomoko threw her jacket on, grabbed her umbrella and whisked out of the door. Leaving the two boys alone. Which was a pretty normal state for them, but Josuke felt like he had been shot full of adrenaline.

“Here, you missed a spot.” Josuke noticed a streak of grease leaned forward and wiped it off from Okuyasu’s cheek. “You smell like motor oil.”

“Hey, it’s a manly and tough smell! For a manly and tough guy!” Okuyasu flexed and Josuke rolled his eyes while thinking he was the damned cutest thing on the planet. “So um,” He said, tousling his hair dry with the already soaked towel. “What do you wanna do?”

“I guess what we normally do.” Josuke said with a shrug before waving his arms around. “I mean! I like doin what we normally do I was just…really lookin forward to tonight.”

“Really?” Okuyasu said. “Me too. We’ll just have to take a literal rain check. The beach aint goin anywhere dude.”

“Well, yeah.” Josuke weakly agreed. He doesn’t get it, well of course he doesn’t, duh. “Wanna play something?”

“Yeah!” He said excitedly, tossing the towel aside. There wasn’t really any salvaging his hair. Josuke touched his, thankful he hadn't been caught in the rain. The thought of what the humidity alone would do was horrifying. “What your mom make for dinner?”

“Eh, probably curry or something.” Josuke sat down next to the other boy, his heart already starting to race. His skin felt all prickly under his freshly laundered clothes. “So I can just stick it on the stove.”

“Yeah, it’s pretty hard to burn curry.” Okuyasu agreed, nudging him in the side. “Right? ‘Cause you burn everything.”

“Hey! Not everything! I don’t burn cereal!” Okuyasu laughed at him so Josuke punched his arm. Okuyasu punched him back. “So that’s how it is?” Josuke said, pretending to be angry. Okuyasu tried not to smile. He could tell when Josuke was just playing with him. He shoved him, Okuyasu shoved him back and it turned into a full on wrestling match on the floor. It only stopped when Okuyasu got Josuke in a headlock and Josuke started shrieking.

“Not the hair not the hair!” Josule managed to wriggle away, frantically patting down the flyaways. “I managed to get it perfect today.”

“Moron, it always looks good.” Okuyasu snorted. “I mean no one’s gonna see it tonight anyway! Just me.”

You’re the most important one though! Josuke nearly screamed inside his own head as he turned on the Nintendo. But holy shit he thinks it looks good? He likes my hair? Josuke pretended the game station wasn’t turning on so he could have a few minutes to recover before he crawled back over to Okuyasu and sat beside him, their shoulders touching. Josuke swallowed painfully.

“So how do you think you did on that math exam?” Okuyasu asked as Mario Kart booted up. They both sucked at games so much Mikitaka had beaten them despite claiming to have never seen such a “strange contraption” in his entire life. “I think I passed it! But maybe by like…a point.”

“I don’t think I did so hot on anything this week.” Josuke mumbled, watching Princess Peach (his main) tumble off the edge of rainbow road and plummet into the abyss. It was a relatable feeling right now.

“Head still a little fuzzy?” Okuyasu asked, sounding worried. “Shouldn’t you go back to the hospital then?”

“Nah nah I’m cool dude I’m just adjusting back to daily life.” Josuke lied, glancing at the other boy as he sighed in relief.

“Oh good. I was worried there for a second.” Okuyasu smiled at him. Josuke liked a lot of things about the other boy, but he really, really, adored that wide toothy grin that made his eyes and nose crinkle. Josuke immediately excused himself to go to the bathroom.

“C’mon mannnnn,” He said to himself after splashing himself with cool water. “Get a fuckin grip already.”

He glared at his reflection, like maybe that would get him to shape up. All of his confidence had drained out of him as soon as he saw the rain, but he had to do it tonight. He had a feeling if he didn’t tell Okuyasu how he felt right now, he’d never get the balls to.

He’s just a guy. Josuke thought, pushing some stray hairs back into place. Just like, the nicest coolest guy I’ve ever met. That I'm gonna confess to tonight. And if he rejects me I’m gonna be so crushed I won't even know what to do. And I’ve never even kissed anyone before and holy shit what if we kiss tonight?! Josuke wished there was a toothbrush or some mouthwash but this was the parlor and Tomoko liked to keep it fancy for guests. Josuke gripped the sink and took a deep breath, realizing his brow was starting to get sweaty. Josuke couldn’t believe how…wishy washy he was being. He was cool, he was attractive, he had straight c’s. He could do this.

“Josuke?” Okuyasu knocked on the door. Josuke yelped and slipped on the bathmat. He would’ve really eaten it if he hadn't managed to grab onto one of the fancy hand towels lovingly arranged on the railing. “You ok?”

“Yeah!” He yelled way too loudly as he wrenched the door open. Okuyasu had a confused look on his face. “I’m cool I’m cool.”

“Are you sure?” Okuyasu asked as Josuke scuttled past him and went back to his spot on the floor. “You’re acting a little weird.”

“Nah I’m good. Now you just have me thinking about my math test and all.” Josuke giggled shrilly and even to his own ears it sounded like he was going crazy. “I’m worried I flunked!”

Okuyasu just laughed at him and they started the race back up. Josuke immediately careened off the edge again. “Alright, I feel you on that man.”

Josuke managed to calm down a little. After all, he had all night to confess, and it probably wasn’t a good idea to do it during a video game. Even though there’d be no fireside, under the stars confession, Josuke could still make it romantic if he tried. ‘Cause that’s what Okuyasu deserved. With that on the backburner, the night turned back into one of many that Josuke and Okuyasu had shared together. Where they just played video games and joked around and laughed way too much at jokes that weren’t as funny as either of them actually thought but Josuke felt blindingly happy and normal.

That is until the rain picked up, and lightning flashed outside. Okuyasu startled and leaned into Josuke for a second. It was enough to make his brain short circuit just as the lights flickered, and shut off.

“Oh shit!” Okuyasu exclaimed. “I didn’t think the storm was this bad!”

It took Josuke a couple seconds to react to what was going on. He and Okuyasu were all alone, and now in the dark. Josuke leapt to his feet so fast he got dizzy. “I’ll get some candles!”

“Good idea!” Okuyasu chirped. Tomoko was always very prepared, and kept flashlights and candles handy in the kitchen pantry. Josuke stumbled around until he found the flashlight and tossed the spare to Okuyasu. They set up the candles around the family room and kitchen, feeling very adult and responsible and put together. That was until Josuke looked over at Okuyasu in the warm, yellow wash of the light and his heart drop kicked his ribcage. He and Okuyasu were alone, in a room lit by candles. Maybe this weather was actually working in his favor.

Okuyasu suddenly shrieked. “The stove!”

“What?”

“If the powers out, we can't heat up the stove! No curry tonight!” Okuyasu all but fell to his knees in despair. “And your mom’s curry is the best!”

Josuke fought a goofy grin as Okuyasu sat down on the couch and pouted like an offended child. “Don’t worry, we can have it for breakfast tomorrow. And besides!” Josuke went back into the cabinet and grabbed every bag of chips and cookies he could find. “We got snacks!”

Okuyasu triumphantly pumped his fist into the air and Josuke tossed the bags at him one by one. He was just about to lunge the spicy rice crackers when his cell phone rang. Tomoko had bought him one just this week, due to his recent bout of frequent injuries. She wanted to keep track of him. Little did she know this particular adventure was kinda over.

“Mom?” Josuke said as he answered the phone, sitting down beside Okuyasu. “Are you ok?”

“I’m fine.” Tomoko said, sounding only a little bit harried. “Everything alright out there?”

“The power just went out.”

She sighed. “I thought it would. We still have power at the school, thanks to the backup generators. Did you get the candles out?”

“Yeah yeah.”

“Ok good. And don’t open the fridge! I don’t know how long the power’ll be out and I don’t want anything to spoil!”

Josuke glanced at Okuyasu who was giggling behind his hand at Tomoko’s gently nagging. “Gotcha.”

“The roads are really bad so I’ll be staying here until it clears up.” Tomoko went on. “I should hopefully be home by ten or eleven. Don’t get into trouble now!”

“How could I? We can't even watch dirty movies now!” Josuke teased and Okuyasu snorted. “Guess we’ll have to go real old school and play cards.”

“Well don’t stay up too late. You have chores tomorrow!”

With that cheery reminder Tomoko hung up and Josuke sighed. “Man, I can't believe the power went out. I don’t wanna play cards!”

“You tellin me!” Okuyasu grumbled. “This is my precious time with your Nintendo! And it’s been ruined!”

“Hey, now you get to hang out with me!”

Josuke couldn’t believe he said something so corny but Okuyas smiled good-naturedly and agreed. Holy shit he’s perfect what the hell Josuke’s brain shouted at him over and over again as he grabbed a packet of cards and some blankets. Not the single blanket to share like Yukako had suggested. Okuyasu would find that very odd since he knew just how many throw blankets Tomoko liked to keep around.

“You know how to play anything other than go fish?” Josuke asked as Okuyasu ripped open the bag of popcorn and shoved a handful into his mouth.

“Nope.”

They wrapped themselves up in their individual blankets like two matching caterpillars and gorged themselves on junk food and seemingly endless rounds of go fish. With every passing minute, Josuke started to get more and more nervous as he realized that his very narrow window of confession time was dwindling away. His nerves were high, and there was an unpleasant churning in his stomach and his heart was starting to hurt. Can I have a heart attack at age 16? He wondered, checking the time. 9:30. He only had a couple hours at the most to do this before Tomoko came back and made them go to bed. Josuke wasn’t sure he could admit his feelings with his mom in the house. Even if they were in his locked room, he felt like she would be able to hear them somehow. Not that he thought she’d have a problem with it. But it was hard to get your groove on when your mom was around.

It only rained harder. The wind made the windows flex and shake. Okuyasu started to look worried. “I hope my old man’s ok. He’s in a windowless room, and he has Stray Cat with him, but I don’t know.”

Josuke was a nice guy, but not nice enough to Mr. Nijimura that he was gonna let Okuyasu go back out into that crazy flood and sleep in that most likely absolutely freezing house. At least Josuke had electric blankets here. “I’m sure he’s fine. And if you left I’d be lonely!”

That last part was word vomit to the highest level, and Josuke felt his ears burn. Okuyasu looked down at his cards, but he was beaming. “I’m not about to leave any time soon dude. I don’t want to.”

Josuke looked down too because the blush was spreading. “Cards are getting kinda boring huh?”

“Yeah. I should probably learn some more games.” Okuyasu agreed and they tossed their cards into the pile between them. “So whaddya wanna do?”

Josuke bit his lip. “I-I don’t know. Not much to do.”

“Ya got…tidily winks?”

Josuke burst out laughing. “What the fuck is that dude?”

Okuyasu laughed too and Josuke quieted down so he could listen to him. “I don’t know man…I’m trying at least!”

“Yeah, I guess. You wanna sit by the porch and watch the storm?”

Okuyasu shrugged. “Nothin else to do.”

They migrated over to the window which lead out to the backyard. They had a really nice view of the grill which was getting pummeled by the rain and not much else. Very romantic Josuke, He thought to himself. Super smooth.

“Yeah I’m officially bored.” Okuyasu said a few minutes later. “And I ate all of the cookies.”

Now or never man. “Okuyasu~”

“Man, are we really so lame we can't think of anything to do other then play video games and watch tv? You should go find some magazines or manga or something.”

“Okuyasu.” Josuke said again, firmly this time. A bit too much. He sounded angry. Okuyasu looked over at him, wide eyed. “I…I’m really glad you didn’t die.”

Wow…nice job there. Okuyasu just nodded a little. “Me too Josuke. Are you sure you’re feeling ok?”

“I’m fine I just~” Josuke’s brain was going a million miles a second and he forgot everything he was going to say to the other boy. He had meticulously planned a beautiful confession and the words that came out of his mouth made him want to go back in time and throw his four year old self out into the snow to die. “Do you wanna make out?”

Okuyasu made the weirdest sound. Like a startled bird or something and Josuke wondered if he could somehow drown in the rain. “W-what?!”

Josuke took a deep breath and decided he might as well keep going with it. He really couldn’t do anymore damage then he already did. “It be something to do. Do you wanna?”

Okuyasu was red faced and stuttering. “I mean, if you want to.”

“I do.” Josuke said, a bit too breathless to be cool. “I really do.”

Okuyasu was looking everywhere but at him. Josuke’s entire body was now positively vibrating. Did that count as a confession? Or did it sound like he was just bored? Did he offend Okuyasu? Was he reducing his feelings towards him to some passing curiosity instead of him being completely, totally, desperately in love with this guy?! Holy shit did he mess everything up? Josuke clenched his jaw and balled his fists, a tightly knotted coil of agonizing adolescence.

“I-I do too.” Okuyasu blurted out, his ears turning purple. “I-I-I never kissed anyone so I’ll suck at it!”

“Me too!” Josuke exclaimed, breaking out in a sweat. “I mean I’ll be terrible!”

“I’ll be worse!”

Josuke started giggling. Is this really happening like this? What the hell? “Ok, so this is gonna suck is what were saying.”

Okuyasu laughed too and hid his face. “Oh my god this is embarrassing! I’m fuckin this up aren’t I?”

“Well, I’m fucking it up to.” Josuke said, scooting forward. “So maybe both of us should shut up.”

Okuyasu peeked out from behind his fingers. “Ok. How do we start?”

“Uhh, I’m not sure.” Josuke rubbed at the back of his neck, which was on fire. “C-close your eyes.”

Okuyasu squeezed them shut and Josuke settled right in front of him. His lips were closed and pressed into a thin line. Josuke stared at them for a while, like he would be suddenly inspired by the god of love and know how to do this but no divine revelation came. Josuke took a deep, trembling breath and leaned in close. Josuke closed his eyes as he pressed his lips to Okuyasu’s and the other boy jumped.

…now what do I do? Josuke had seen people kiss on tv sometimes but the mechanics were beyond him. But his lips were soft against his and it felt nice. Really nice. Josuke was surprised he hadn’t internally combusted by now. He opened his eyes and Okuyasu was staring back at him. He pulled back, and for once was at a loss for words.

“A-again?” Okuyasu suggested.

Josuke nodded frantically. “Yeah yeah. Maybe…maybe we should open our mouths a little?”

“Ok.” Okuyasu seemed very eager to comply and leaned back in, his lips parted. Josuke was very careful as he placed his lips between his, moving slowly and trying to imitate what he had seen other people do. Okuyasu made a soft noise almost like a sigh as Josuke tilted his head and it made Josuke feel like his heart was gonna explode. They held onto each other’s arms, unsure of what to do with their hands at first.

I want him closer. Josuke thought hazily. He wrapped his arms around the other boy’s waist and pulled on him until he got the hint and held onto Josuke’s neck. Josuke nodded a bit, even though he wasn’t sure what he was agreeing to as Okuyasu settled in-between his legs.

The kiss was as clumsy and terrible as they had both predicted but it felt really, really nice. Okuyasu’s lips were really warm, and tasted good from all the sweets he had been eating. Josuke liked how his body felt against him. Sturdy and comfortable and strong. And he really liked the feeling of his tongue just barely touching the outside of his lips. It didn’t really matter that their noses kept bumping together and that they were breathing way too loudly through them or that there was a lot of spit. Josuke felt more than on top of the world. He was up on the moon. He was out of this galaxy.

They pulled back a lot slower than the first time and stared at each other before they both burst out into loud, nervous giggles. “I can't believe we did that!” Okuyasu exclaimed.

“Yeah, me neither.” Josuke was positively dizzy. Okuyasu looked back down at his knees, like he wasn’t sure he was allowed to look at Josuke. Josuke licked his lips and it all came tumbling out. “I like you Okuyasu. I mean like, I really really like you. Like romantically. Like I wanna be more than friends, y’know? Like we should date. Cause you’re just, the best guy I know, you know? I’m sorry, this is really sudden! I’m probably not making any sense!”

Josuke was rambling and he knew it and he was real close to saying something super embarrassing. Well, even more embarrassing then whatever the hell he was babbling on about. Okuyasu was just staring at his hands and not saying anything. Fuck I fucked up I knew it! He thought we were just foolin around but I meant it! Josuke felt close to crying all of the sudden. He shut his eyes to keep any traitorous tears in. He didn’t know how he managed to screw things up so badly and so quickly.

“Hey,” Okuyasu said softly. Josuke refused to open his eyes. So this is what it felt like to have your confession turned down. Now he felt sorry for all those girls he made cry every Valentine’s Day. “Hey, Josuke.” Okuyasu gently cupped the sides of Josuke’s face and kissed him again. For the third time in a week, humiliating tears splashed down Josuke’s cheeks. Josuke was too confused and upset to think right now, so he just kissed him back and moaned low, low in his chest.

Okuyasu pushed slightly and Josuke lied down on his back, pulling the other boy on top of him. Okuyasu kissed harder than before and opened up Josuke’s mouth with his own. O-ok so this is new. Josuke thought as their tongues touched. Is this why Koichi forgave Yukako for kidnappin him? Cause I definitely get it now. Josuke tried to keep up with his pace, but it was slowly dawning on him, to his utter surprise, that Okuyasu was a way better kisser then him.

Josuke broke the kiss because he needed answers. He looked up at Okuyasu, more than a little dazed and reached up to stroke part of the scar on his cheek. “Hey.”

Okuyasu sighed happily. “Hey.” They gazed at each other like idiots for a little bit until Okuyasu went on. “I really like you too dude. I kinda, I actually adore you.” Okuyasu said a little nervously. “I’ve wanted to tell you for a while and I’ve got real close a few times but I just couldn’t.

 “Dude this is way too easy.” Josuke sighed in relief and it was like a million pounds of steel had been lifted from his heart. “I felt so shitty this week and you’ve liked me this whole time!?”

“Yeah, how could I not? I’m just like…shocked you like me.”

Josuke cocked his head. “Hey man, why?”

Okuyasu started running his fingers through the hair around Josuke’s temple, which felt really fucking delightful. “Man, it’s hard to fuckin look at you sometimes you’re so gorgeous. You could probably date anyone you wanted. You’re so cool, and I’m…well I’m the lucky one.”

“Hey, hey dude.” Josuke patted Okuyasu’s cheek in the gentlest slap he could achieve. “Man don’t talk shit about yourself like that. I hate it. We’re both good lookin, we’re both awesome and we’re both the lucky one, ok?”

Okuyasu started to get red and Josuke felt accomplished at making him so flustered. “I’m good lookin?”

“Dude, you got a sexy body and a cute face. I’m crazy over you.”

His blush got worse and Josuke couldn’t believe he said something like that. He kissed him with closed lips, and his eyes squeezed shut. It was brief, cause Okuyasu pulled back to protest. “Man, why didn’t you tell me? I’ve been making myself sick over you for like ever.”

Josuke shrugged. “Didn’t wanna weird you out and lose you. But…but then I realized that there was no way I could lose you. And Josuke fucking Higashikata gets what he wants.”

He rolled his eyes. “You’re ridiculous.”

“Yeah, am I?” Josuke said, getting in his face. “And this ridiculous guy is all yours.”

“Good.” Okuyasu said, kissing the smirk off of him before he rolled over and sat his back against the window. “My arms hurt, holding myself up like that.”

“Ah.” Josuke muttered, sitting down next to him. The cold window felt great against his way too overheated back. They sat quietly for a little bit, Okuyasu with his knees pulled to his chest and Josuke resting his arms behind his head. Josuke was trying to digest everything right now. The confession. The kiss. Everything felt really new now, and a little fragile. Josuke was sure Okuyasu was doing the same. He could practically see the smoke coming out of his ears. “So, uh…” Josuke said after he felt like he had enough “chill out” time. “You ever like another guy before?”

Okuyasu’s cheeks had just gone back to their normal color and suddenly turned violently pink. “Yeah. Back in middle school. You?”

“Uh, not really.” Josuke admitted. “You’re…kinda the first person I’ve ever really had a crush on. Besides from the weather girl on channel 3.”

“Miss Keiko?” Okuyasu laughed a little bit. “She’s like thirty.” Josuke waved that aside, turning red himself. “Well I guess that makes me feel sorta special.” Okuyasu let out a deep breath. “This is a big change.”

“What is?” Josuke asked, oblivious.

Okuyasu snorted and gestured between the two of them. “Uh, idiot, this? Us? We like each other…in the ‘like like’ way. And we kissed. What does that make us?”

“Boyfriends?” Josuke suggested very helpfully.

Okuyasu covered his face again but it really was pointless. His ears and his neck were just as flushed. “Don’t say it so casually! That’s huge!” It took him a couple minutes to compose himself and all the while Josuke very slyly scooted closer to him until their arms were touching. Josuke felt like he had waited eighteen million years to get this close to the other boy. He didn’t want to wait until he was done having his crisis. “Is that all there is to it?” He asked as Josuke rested his head on his shoulder. “We’re just…dating now? That’s how it works?”

“I mean, I guess! I don’t think we gotta sign any papers or some shit. I know about as much as you which is like nothing, dude.” Okuyasu smells really nice. Josuke thought, nuzzling into his shirt. I wonder if he put on special cologne for tonight. “Don’t think about it too much.”

“Well that’s easy.” Okuyasu said and Josuke pinched his side. Josuke hadn't really noticed it or hadn't really thought about it at first, but Okuyasu down talked himself so much. Josuke hadn't realized why, until much later when he started to take to time to try to understand the other boy. Now he couldn’t stand to hear him (or anyone else) say anything negative about Okuyasu. And Josuke was kinda mad at himself for the times he called him dumb and stuff. Okuyasu shyly wrapped his arm around Josuke’s waist and pulled him closer. “God, there’s just like…so much in my head right now. It feels like my brains an ant hill. I have so much I wanna tell you and shit but I don’t even know where to start.”

“You don’t gotta say it all at once bro.” Josuke said. God, he really liked being close to Okuyasu like this. They could have been doing this the whole time they’d known each other! Honestly, if Josuke thought really hard about it, he had always been into the other boy. Even when he was trying to erase him from existence.

Okuyasu nodded. “Ok, but I’m just…so happy I met you dude. I mean, maybe our first meeting could have gone a little better but you were the first person in so long that was actually nice to me.”

Josuke’s heart twisted. He was only sixteen, he didn’t quite know how to help Okuyasu out with everything. He never talked about his past after all. Josuke had no idea just how much abuse and neglect he suffered through. Just thinking about it was enough to make Josuke blind with rage. It pissed him off even more then when people insulted his hair, which was impressive. “Man, I’m glad I met you too.” Josuke uncertainly kissed him again. He just barely brushed their lips together cause he wasn’t too sure if he could just do it whenever? Josuke felt the other boy gulp right before he returned the kiss. “You wanna head upstairs?”

“Yeah it’s getting cold down here.”

They gathered up some blankets, the rest of the snacks and they blew out the candles. Josuke left a flashlight for his mom and took one himself and they hurried up, laughing over that time Rohan tripped over his own feet and collapsed to the ground right in front of Tonio’s cause he was trying to take a photo of a squirrel.

Josuke started to feel oddly nervous as they went into his pitch black room. He’d been in here plenty of times with Okuyasu! And he had slept with him all the time! Not much was different right now, was it? Aside from the whole part about me being allowed to touch him, Josuke thought as he found his battery powered desk light and set it up on his already very crowded bedside table. I shouldn’t feel all nervous, that’s not cool or manly. I’m gonna make a fool outta myself and then what will Okuyasu think? Well, he’d probably still like me. A couple months ago Josuke started having a real hard time falling asleep with the other boy right beside him when he came over for his nearly tri-weekly sleepovers. He’d get the same, squirmy feeling in his gut that he had right now. Could he still be crushin on him even though he had confessed? What if he couldn’t fall asleep ever again?! But, he thought slowly as he opened up his chest of drawers and started rooting through his pajamas. Guess we don’t really need to sleep tonight.

“Shower!” Josuke shouted suddenly, making Okuyasu jump about a foot off the bed. “I’m going to go take a shower!”

Okuyasu blinked slowly at him and Josuke wondered if his face was being all twitchy. “Alright?”

“Here,” Josuke said, handing him the pajamas he had left last time he stayed over. “My mom washed them.”

“Man your mom is just the best.” Okuyasu smiled and Josuke’s stomach hurt even worse. “Wish she was my mom.”

“Dude she kinda is now.” Josuke said. “Though I’m glad she’s not really. Cause then it be illegal to kiss you.” Okuyasu blushed again as Josuke kissed his cheek. Just cause it seemed like he could kiss the other guy whenever he wanted, and also he thought it be weird to leave the room without saying goodbye properly. “I’ll be right back.”

The hot water was shot, which meant Josuke took a desperately needed cold shower. I hope he didn’t notice how hard I’ve been. Josuke thought, scrubbing the massive amount of product out of his hair. I don’t know why, should I want him to notice it? Josuke wondered what time it was in America. Maybe Jotaro would have some good advice, because Josuke had no idea where else to look. Would the local library have resources on what to do when you fell in love with your best friend and he liked you back and he was currently in your bed? It was a ludicrous scenario. It was the goal of every teenage boy with a crush and Josuke was shocked by his own luck. But thinking about sex just made the gears in his brain spin out of control. It actually hurt his skull.

Josuke was shivering hard by the time he finished toweling his hair dry. He hurried back to his room, hoping Okuyasu had gotten the electric blanket going.

“How long do you think the powers gonna be out?” Josuke asked him as he shut the door. He wondered if that would help them retain heat or lose it? He hadn't ever been too great at math. Or was that science?

“You think I have a clue?”

Josuke chuckled. Normally, he’d just toss himself into bed, cause before tonight they had just been two friends sharing a space. No different than if they were both on futons on the ground or in sleeping bags in the same tent. Now, he hesitated, and felt cautious in a way he couldn’t really describe. And he noticed that Okuyasu was staring at him with wider eyes than normal. “Hey, what’s with the googoo eyes dude?”

“Huh? Oh!” Okuyasu had already tucked himself in and he sank even lower into the sheets like he was trying to hide. “I’ve just never seen you with your hair down.”

Josuke self consciously touched the still damp strands that hung down around his face. “Really? You sleep here all the time though man!”

“Yeah but I always fall asleep befoe you. I guess you shower then and you always wake up super early to do your hair.” Okyasu was still staring at him like he was witnessing a natural phenomena. Or like that time Tonio gave him free desert. “I like it. You look good.”

Josuke felt flushed and finally crawled into bed. “You like it better like this?”

“Hm? It looks good either way. You always look good dude.” Okuyasu smiled and cautiously ran his fingers through Josuke’s hair. “You’d probably look nice bald. I’d like you even if you had pigtails.”

“Really?” Josukes smirked, letting the other boy play with his hair to his heart’s content. “What if I grew it out as long as Yukakos?”

Okuyasu winced. “Anything that reminds me of her kinda scares me to be honest.”

Josuke laughed at him so Okuyasu shut him up by leaning in real close to his face. Josuke gave him the go ahead and he kissed him like he had earlier. Kinda hard, with his tongue and everything. Josuke wasn’t really in the mood to fight for dominance and let himself be pulled up against the other boy, their heads on the same pillow. Josuke warmed up immediately. In fact, his skin was way too hot again and he wondered if he could ever kiss this guy without feelin like his body was gonna go up in smoke.

Josuke broke the kiss so he could gasp and get some air in his lungs. He kept forgetting to breathe. Okuyasu stared at him as he caught his breath, cautiously running his fingers down Josuke’s neck. “You’re so fuckin gorgeous…god your eyes are unreal. Like those people in all those magazine advertisements for glasses.” Josuke smiled a big dumb goofy grin. Okuyasu was looking at him like he was just the best damn thing on earth and that made Josuke feel really fucking good. “Man I’m really gay.”

“Well I guess I am too then.” Josuke said, biting his lip as Okuyasu pecked at his neck nervously. He was so hesitant, and coy and the butterflies inside of Josuke felt like they were each the size of mothra.

“Yeah but you’re wayyy prettier than me, like a girl, so that makes you gayer since I’m so manly.” Okuyasu stuck his tongue out at Josuke.

“Doesn’t matter.” Josuke said getting his arms around him. He didn’t wanna talk anymore but Okuyasu kept running that cute mouth of his.

“So like, what do we do now?”

“What do you mean man?”

Okuyasu shrugged. “I mean, now that we’re dating, I guess.”

Josuke liked how the other boy was gazing at him. He looked so happy to be near him. Josuke felt the same way. “Then I guess we’re a couple, so we’ll do what couples do.”

“I guess I just never really saw much of that, growing up you know?” Okuyasu took Josuke’s hand that was resting on the pillow in his shyly. Josuke could tell he was nervous from how slowly he wrapped their fingers together. Josuke held his breath and he knew his hand was sweating like crazy now but it didn’t stop him from squeezing tight. Okuyasu’s palm was clammy but it started to heat up. “And like, in all the movies and manga it’s always a girl and a guy.”

Josuke stared at their linked hands and gently stroked the veins on Okuyasu’s wrist. “Well, I mean we can go on dates, and hang out together.”

Okuyasu cocked his head. “We already do that.”

“Yeah, but now we’ll spend a lot of time gettin ready and treat each other and take each other to nice places. Like we should go to Tonio’s for dinner instead of lunch.” Josuke smiled and congratulated himself over how romantic he was being. “Candle light and all that shit. We can split milkshakes now! And you can make me bento like Yukako does.  And I’ll buy you ice cream every week. And we can hold hands whenever we go places and when you sleep here you can sleep as close as you want to me.” Josuke got up and sat on his knees. “And if you’re feeling the same way I’m feelin I know that you’ve been wanting to touch me and kiss me, cause all I wanna do is touch and kiss you right now.” Josuke crawled forward and sat down on Okuyasu’s lap. It was a bold mood, one that took all of Josuke’s chutzpah to pull off. Okuyasu immediately went red but he rested his hands on his Josuke’s hips anyway. “That’s stuff couples do. Past couple months I’ve wanted to grab your hand and lay in your lap and kiss you all over all the time. Now I can and I'm gonna.”

“Man, cut it out. You’re killin’ me with this.” Okuyasu said. “Jeez…”

“Dude, you’re getting all teary eyed.” Josuke said, leaning in close. “I make you this emotional?”

“Don’t tease me! Maybe I’m just happy I finally got a date!”

“Yeah, I don’t gotta hear you whining over Koichi and Yukako anymore.”

“Shut up bro…man you’re so mean sometimes.” Okuyasu grumbled, but any annoyance vanished as Josuke leaned forward and kissed his nose. Now, normally, Josuke would puke at such a sappy display of affection but Okuyasu had a nose that needed to be kissed. Every inch of him needs to be. “Think I’ll forgive you just ‘cause you’re hot?”

“You think I’m hot?” Josuke licked his lips because he knew it drive the other boy wild. They held each other’s eye, and Josuke couldn’t really tell if they were gonna make out or punch each other. Okuyasu made the call and kissed him, opening his mouth with his so he could run his tongue over his teeth. Josuke made a soft noise in the back of his throat, shifting closer. Okuyasu rested his hand on the curve of his neck, his other hand on the small of his back. Josuke grabbed Okuyasu’s chest, kissing him harder. Their teeth knocked together and Josuke cursed violently.

“Not so rough man.” Okuyasu said, rubbing at his mouth.

Josuke kissed his cheek in apology. “Sorry sorry,” He was gentler this time, trying to keep his wits about him so he didn’t bite his tongue off.

They got way back into it. Josuke had to remind himself to breathe a few times because his tongue was so far in Okuyasu’s mouth and his hips were shifting his weight back and forth against the other boys lap. His entire face felt like it was melting, and Okuyasu was kinda loud. Josuke was a good boy. He had never rented a naughty video in all his life so the sounds Okuyasu was making was making his stomach flip and his forehead sweat. They were so new, and they made him feel insane.

“You’re so hot man.” Okuyasu said in-between kisses. “Fuck…I mean you’re stunning.”

“You’re gonna make me blush,”

Okuyasu laughed at him and their heads bumped together as they tried to find another angle. “You’re already purple dude.” He stared at Josuke’s mouth. “Shit man, I can't believe this. It’s like a dream.”

“You been dreamin about me?” Josuke teased the other boy as he pushed his hair off his forehead. “What kinda dreams?”

“Real good ones.” Okuyasu said as he pulled him back down by his shirt. He bit down his Josuke’s lower lip and pulled it. Josuke’s swore he saw stars and galaxies and he dug his nails into the other boys back. “Too much?” Okuyasu asked hurriedly, touching his thumb to Josuke’s swollen lips. “Sorry, I’ve just been thinkin about your mouth like…constantly since I saw you.”

“That’s neat.” Josuke said, desperately trying to stay chill. “Just…who said you got to be so smooth?” Josuke looked to the side, almost embarrassed by how much he liked it. God I really hope he doesn’t notice that I’m rockin’ the biggest boner of my entire life right now.

“Hey!” Okuyasu chirped suddenly just as Josuke went to kiss him again. “Let me give you a hickey!”

“Eh?” Josuke stared down at Okuyasu who had a wild grin. “Why?”

“‘Cause I’ve always wanted to give someone one! That’s what you do when you make out yeah?” Okuyasu touched Josuke’s throat. “I promise I’ll do it where no one will see it.”

Josuke couldn’t even start to pretend he didn’t want Okuyasu to kiss on his neck. He was a little worried about cumming in his pants though. So he nodded and tilted his chin back, Josuke feeling like his entire body was made of vibrating worms. And once Okuyasu’s tongue touched his skin he had to hold back a very loud moan but enough escaped.

“Shit man,” Josuke sighed, pulling at the back of his shirt. “You done this before or something?”

Okuyasu shook his head and kissed harder, using his teeth now. Josuke felt him slip his hands under his sweatshirt and touch the bare skin of his back. He gently rubbed circles into the small of his back and traced up his spine until both of his hands were splayed across his shoulders. Josuke started giggling. It was a little ticklish but he was still so nervous about all of this. He made Okuyasu laugh against his throat and he muttered that he adored Josuke, before he moved back to kiss his ear with shaky lips. I’m such a lucky bastard, Josuke thought, shutting his eyes so he could properly enjoy it. That good luck charm Yukako gave me really worked! I gotta treat her to coffee sometime! Josuke wanted to touch Okuyasu back. He slid his hand up the front of his shirt, aiming to go for his chest but his hands suddenly froze on his stomach.

“Hey, what’re doin?” Okuyasu muttered as Josuke pushed his shirt up to his neck. “Not that I’m complaining but I didn’t think you’d wanna move so fast.”

Josuke rested his hand on his side. “There aint even a scar.”

“Huh? You’re actin weird, Josuke.”

“This is where Kira hit you.” Josuke said and Okuyasu shut his mouth with a click. “God it was a fucking hole. It went right through you. The last time I healed someone and it didn’t work…it was my gramps man. You never met him, but he woulda liked you.” Josuke realized he was tearing up and quickly pulled back. “I just thought you were dead. I thought I fucked up again.”

“Hey, hey.” Okuyasu sat up and grabbed Josuke’s hand. “I’m here, I’m ok. Nothin’s gonna happen to me.”

 “I know, can you just…can you promise…I~” Josuke shook his head and didn’t finish the sentence. It be too much on top of everything else to tell Okuyasu he was in love with him. “Just don’t pull any shit like that again ok?”

“I’ll try.”

Josuke nodded and lied back down next to Okuyasu. They were quiet for a while as there breathing evened out, and Josuke heard Tomoko get home. He considered going to say hi, but then he’d have to leave the warmth of the bed and he wasn’t about that.

“I wonder if mom won't let you sleep over like this if she finds out we’re datin.” Josuke wondered as he tried to get his ragin hard-on to go away. He thought about his old man shirtless, Mikitaka mid transformation, that weird dolphin documentary he had watched with Jotaro complete with obscene amounts of dolphin dick and Rohan generally existing. Nothing worked when Josuke was still resting his chin right where Okuyasu’s heart was. “Then she’d make you stay in the guest room.”

“I don’t want that. I hate sleeping alone now.” Okuyasu played with Josuke’s hair a bit reverently. “I like being with you, all the time. Even when you bug me.”

Josuke snorted. When did he ever bug Okuyasu? It was definitely the other way around. “You just wanna go to sleep?”

“Yeah, dude.” Josuke grabbed the blankets and pulled them over. There were some complicated maneuvers as they tried to arrange their limbs around each other but not be uncomfortable as fuck. Eventually Okuyasu just pulled Josuke into his arms and buried his head in the nape of his head.

“Why do I gotta be the little spoon.” Josuke grumbled.

“Cause I’m bigger.”

“I’m taller!”

“By like two centimeters. And I weigh more. And my muscles are huge.”

“Shut up!” Josuke exclaimed. “I can work out and get stronger but you won't get any taller!”

“You don’t know that!” Okuyasu shook Josuke, but it was more like a gentle sweet rocking to be honest. “Be quiet! You and your eyebrows.”

“You like my eyebrows.” Josuke said smugly. “Just like you like everything about me.”

Okuyasu went quiet like he was wondering if he should tease him back and then held him tightly. “I like you. I do.”

Josuke felt happier than he had been since he won the lottery. “I like you too.”

There were issues that night. Okuyasu’s arm fell asleep just as Josuke started to nod off and they had to change positions. Josuke kicked him about eight times and Okuyasu sneezed in his face at some point too. But they were stubborn and refused to sleep apart from each other.

Eventually, maybe around 2 am, things finally clicked and they passed out comfortably wrapped around each other. So deeply asleep neither of them woke up when Tomoko checked in on them the next morning.

She quickly covered her mouth to smother a giggle. Josuke was curled up against Okuyasu’s side, drooling on his chest. The other boy was clinging to him tightly, even though he was still asleep. She honestly couldn’t tell whose limbs were whose. Tomoko closed the door as quietly as she could and made her way downstairs to start a fresh pot of coffee. Honestly, she wasn’t surprised. In fact, she had been waiting for this development for a while now. Tomoko knew what it was like to be desperately in love with someone and she had been getting a little tired of watching those two boys dance around each other.

Guess I’ll be needing to have “the talk” with Josuke, Tomoko thought, turning on the coffee maker. Oh well, at least I don’t have to worry about any unexpected grandchildren!