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"Heero the Muse"Written By: Emerald Pillow
Pairings: 3x1x3 Summary: Trowa is a writer in his spare time. Heero hasn't read any of Trowa's works but is curious to do so. Trowa , on the other hand, doesn't particularly want Heero to read what he writes as he has some dark secret lurking in the text of his books. Rating: R Heero the Muse
Chapter 4 Closing the door, Heero relaxed. He glanced down at his watch. It was 10:15 already. It had taken an hour, but he managed to set up an hour's intermission for his friend. They didn't care if the Latin broke it up, or took it in one large sum, it was really up to Trowa. In exchange, Trowa would have to stay an extra hour, which Heero was sure he wouldn't mind. "I've been looking everywhere for you. Where have you been?" Jamie gasp as she appeared at the end of the hall. "Doing your job." Heero snapped before heading toward the conference. "You mean to tell me that they're going to allow him a break?" Jamie was genuinely surprised. Heero didn't need to answer. "I've been trying since last night and they wouldn't. How did you get them to say 'yes'?" Heero remained silent. "Heero, you have to tell me your secret." "What's important is that he got it. It doesn't matter how." "Well that's great. So where is he?" Heero stopped in his tracks and stared at Jamie, wondering if he had heard right, or if she was kidding. "Don't tell me that he's not with you." His placid cobalt studied her closely. It wasn't like Trowa to just disappear when he was needed. "I went back to get him to start signing, but he was gone. I thought he was with you." Heero pondered this a moment, trying to decipher where the Latin would have gone. "Geez, you don't react to anything, do you?" Heero returned his attention to the woman to find her smiling. Heero didn't respond as he continued down the hall, Jamie close behind. The walk back to the convention was filled of Jamie attempting to apologize for her lame trick. Trowa was at his booth, signing. In fact, the line was moving along nicely. Outwardly, the Latin seemed fine, and Heero wondered if it was the same inwardly. At that moment, he noticed a couple of people walking along the line. They had bags slumped over their shoulder. Hoping they were doing what he expected, he walked over to the nearest person and peaked inside. "Do you want a picture for Trowa to sign?" Heero looked up at the girl with disappointment. They were pictures, not books. He then glanced over at her male coworker. "He only has pictures too?" The girl nodded and Heero swore under his breath. "Did you want one?" "No." At this moment, something caught the corner of his eye. As he turned to note the movement, he was temporarily blinded by the flash of a camera. The twins were standing only a few feet from him. Brittany panicked as Heero headed over to her. "He's going to take my camera again." She whined as Heero neared. "No he won't." Buffy assured and took her sister's camera. She then proceeded to shove it down her halter top; just as Heero stopped beside them. "Camera." He demanded coldly. Buffy smiled brightly and ran her hand over her chest. "Come and get it." Brittany blushed at her sister's bluntness. Heero glared at her a moment before allowing his eyes to wander; taking a count of how many people were watching. "Aren't you man enough to take what you want?" "How old are you?" "Seventeen." She smiled broadly. Seeing how Heero was 25, it wouldn't be wise to dive into her halter top with no reason. Heero thought for a moment before deciding to sneak in their room tonight and snag the film while they slept. Thinking through the plan, he pivoted and headed toward Trowa. As he walked away, he heard Buffy ask why a picture of him was necessary. "He looks like Nash Holiday." Her answer was a high pitched squeal that seized a lot of attention. That was followed by several eyes studying Heero, and noticing for the first time that he did look like the fictional character. Not wanting any of the other fans to start snapping pictures, Heero attempted to keep a low profile.
"Howdy Nanashi." The voice was Betty. To prevent himself from thinking about last night's image, he popped his eyes open to gaze at a fully clothed Betty with her husband at her side. "I was aiming ta give ya this last night, but I hadn't got a chance. . .seein' how you closed the door and all." Trowa looked down at the item being shoved to him. "It's my own novel that I've been workin' on for a while. Read it, and let me know what ya think. My address and phone number are on the last page." Not knowing what else to do, he accepted it, and signed both of Betty's books; then, like the rest, she walked away. In all truth, it wasn't as bad as he had thought it to be. At least, the first twenty minutes hadn't been. Then again, as he glanced at the line, the first few had been mature adults. The bulk of the teenagers were starting to approach. He looked up as a brown haired woman stood before him. She nervously laid her book on the table and stared at him. It wasn't until he handed it back that she spoke. "Thank you so much. I'll treasure this always." Cheeks flushed, she then ran off. "Hey!" Trowa looked up to find a couple approaching. One was a red haired guy, the other a brown haired girl. The guy dropped a copy of each of Trowa's books on the table. "You really a fag?" Trowa was taken aback, but didn't show it. Heero, who had made his way to Trowa's side, glared at the boy. At that moment, the girl punched her companion's arm. "Hey! What was that for?" "Don't be rude!" The girl barked, then turned her attention back to Trowa. "Please forgive him. We think he might be suffering from a new phase of Turret Syndrome. You can make the autographs out to Lonnie." "What the hell is that suppose to mean?" "It means shut the hell up and get your ass moving." With that, she began to shove the boy away. "I'm really sorry again." She accepted her books and left. At this time, Trowa side glanced to Heero, wondering what he was thinking. He was a little surprised to find the Japanese man standing next to him. Placing one hand on the table, only inches from Trowa's, he leaned forward and whispered to his friend. "I arranged an hour break for you. You can take it any way you want. . .but you have to stay until three today." Trowa looked deeply into cobalt. He parted his lips to speak, but a bright flash broke the moment. They turned in unison to find Brittany still holding her camera. The color drained quickly from her features under Heero's glare. "Eep!" She trust the camera to her sister, who was smiling brightly. Heero's narrowing eyes turned from Brittany to Buffy. "I couldn't help it. That scene was just too cute to pass up." Noting Heero's glare, Trowa assumed his friend was getting peeved. Knowing this, he sought the books laid out before him. He wanted to get the two girls out of there as soon as possible. "So, you're allowed to sign one personal item, right?" Trowa looked up in time to witness Buffy pulling her halter top down to expose her breast. "Well, pick one." She turned her seductive gaze to Heero. "Whichever he doesn't sign, you can." "BUFFY!!!" Brittany squealed and covered her face in embarrassment. "Don't get us thrown out before I get his autograph!" "I'll get it for you." She cooed and leaned closer to Trowa. Heero stood straight. His glare evolving into death stares. "Books only." He growled, which caught Trowa's full attention. If the Latin didn't know any better, he would have guessed that Heero almost sounded jealous. Buffy smiled. "What are you? His bodyguard? You wanna guard my body next?" At this time, security appeared on either side of the provocative blonde. After directing her to replace her shirt, they seized either of her arms and escorted her from the room. Too worried about her sister, Brittany forgot her books on the table and ran after the security guards. "Well that was. . ." Both Heero and Trowa turned to face Jamie. Seeing their somber expressions melted her smile. "Interesting." She cleared her throat, and pretended to seem focused on the next fan. "We have to get that camera." Heero announced as he turned his attention toward the direction that Buffy was taken. "Why?" Trowa wondered as he collected the forgotten books, making a mental note to return them as soon as they returned to their room. "There's two pictures on that film that I want destroyed." Trowa gave his attention to the next person. He knew that Heero only wanted to destroy the film because of the fact that he was on it. However, for an unknown reason, it bothered Trowa. He wasn't sure why, he wanted the film to be developed. . .wanted someone to look at it everyday. Maybe it was because he knew that Brittany understood exactly who Eric and Nash were in real life. Perhaps deep down, he wanted someone to know that the feelings in the books weren't just for entertainment. Thinking of this, Trowa became more determined to speak with her for a little while. . .without Heero's knowledge; of course.
"Looks like he's doing fine." Heero studied Trowa's movements. He didn't seem fine, as Jamie stated. Something wasn't right. Ignoring Jamie's stares and questions of what he was doing, he stepped up to Trowa. "How about a peck on the cheek?" A girl questioned and leaned forward. Trowa tried to understand what the big deal was. . .a handshake, he could handle, but kissing. If he did one, then they would all expect it. "It's 11:30, you should take your break." Heero suggested. No arguments given, Trowa pushed from his chair and started to leave. There were a few groans, and mean stares; all were ignored as Trowa gratefully left the booth. Jamie then started to explain to everyone what would happen next. Using his bangs as a shield, Trowa walked as quickly as he could to get away from the crowd. Heero followed behind, wondering just how much damage had been done in the hour and a half. He wasn't sure why, but he had a deep feeling that Trowa was going to run from it. Not wanting this to happen, he caught up to Trowa and lightly grabbed his upper arm. He then pulled the taller man in the opposite direction of which he was heading. They ended up in the hallway with the elevator. Heero hit the up button and then looked over at Trowa. His features were distant and pale. Once the elevator arrived, Heero pulled Trowa inside with him. He waited until the doors closed before pushing the stop button and releasing his hold. Trowa leaned against the back wall and slid to a sitting position. Heero stood, looking over him. As he expected, Trowa seemed to calm while sitting inside the small area surrounded by metal. They had only been there for a few minutes before a voice eluded the intercom. "Hello?" "The elevator is fine. Just give us a few minutes." Heero stated. A short silence followed while Heero stared at Trowa. The Latin was holding his head in his hands; his face hidden from Heero's view. "You okay?" "I don't think I can do this." Trowa whispered, frustration at himself evident. "Destroy them." Trowa looked up a little confused at Heero's words. "They're not Mobile Suits Heero." "They could be." That said, he walked over to Trowa and kneeled. Lightly, he placed his hand over Trowa's right hand, and began moving the Latin's fingers in a familiar manner. The movements were the same as activating the Vulcan cannons on Heavyarms. Trowa stared at the touch a moment before bringing his eyes to meet Heero's. "Why are your eyes red?" Trowa bowed his head to prevent him from staring any longer. "What happened?" Eyes clamped tighter, he did all he could to keep the tears from reappearing. Somehow, he had the feeling that if Heero saw him crying, he would hold him. Though he wouldn't mind that touch, he didn't want it from pity, or comfort. . .he wanted more behind it. "You don't have to tell me, but you also don't have to turn from me." As Heero spoke, he lifted Trowa's face to his. "Trowa?" Slowly, he opened his eyes to meet Heero's. The only thought that ran through his mind was wondering what was wrong with him. The rest of the signing followed relatively easy. Though some of the fans didn't notice Trowa's abnormal hand gestures, others stared at it in confusion. Somehow, Trowa had a feeling that it would be a question to arise when the time comes on Monday. His thoughts were interrupted as he noticed something from the corner of his eye. As all attention was given to it, his heart sunk. Heero was reading his book. It was then that he remembered Brittany had left her copy on accident. He tried to ignore the fact, but he couldn't help it. With each passing fan, he would glance over at Heero. There wasn't any sort of hint on his features about what he thought about the work laid out before him. Once again, nervousness started to set in and he silently scorned himself for the way he had been acting. Suddenly, his attention turned to Jamie. Up until this point, she had been standing to Trowa's left, preparing each item to be signed. Though Trowa hated the idea floating in his mind, it was the only way to stop Heero. "Why don't you go keep Heero company?" Trowa asked, bringing Jamie to stare at him. "What? You're kidding, right?" "Why not?" "I don't think he likes me too much. Besides, he's reading." "He's bored. I feel bad making him just sit around." Jamie looked over at the Japanese man. "I don't want him reading it just yet." Trowa finally confessed. "Why not? Isn't he your friend?" "If you stop him, I'll allow it to become required reading." He didn't need to say it twice. As much as he hated it, he watched as Jamie headed over to her prey. "And Jamie, make sure you get the books from him." Nodding, and smiling, she closed the gap between her and Heero. He was aware of her presence, but didn't show as much as he kept his eyes to the book. "What are you doing Heero?" She purred warmly, and was ignored. "How do you like his book?" Still no answer. Jamie had the sort of voice that would break any concentration, and it was preventing Heero from continuing. However, he allowed his eyes to continue moving at the same pace as if he was still reading. Feeling a little brave, she snatched the book from him. Heero had seen it coming, but didn't suspect her to actually do it. He looked up at her as if warning her to back off. She, on the other hand, continued as if nothing happened. "You're from this Colony, aren't you? Maybe you can show me around after the signing. I'm sure you know where all the great clubs are at." Heero did happen to live on this particular Colony, however, it was on the opposite side; thus the reason that he and Trowa took a plane together to the conference. "Maybe not." He corrected and glanced up at the time. One o'clock. Two more hours and Trowa could leave. He then looked over at Trowa. Though he had been alert to any major changes in his friend's stance, somehow he overlooked the color being drawn from Trowa's face. "You really care about him don't you?" Heero looked up at Jamie's words. The smile was gone from her lips, and a seriousness replaced it. "Trowa's more to you than a friend, isn't he? That's why you've been watching over him all weekend. Why you found a way to arrange a break for him today." She then looked over at Trowa. "He seems different around you too." "How's that?" "Well, for one, he works more. I know for a fact that he's been having trouble with finishing his book. That's why he has so much due by Monday. The third one isn't even near halfway completed. . .yet he spends one night with you, and he has two hundred pages typed." "It's not necessarily because of me." Jamie laughed softly at his modest words. "He just works better under pressure." "Really? Then why did he ask you to join him this weekend? This specific weekend when he has sooo much work due, and it's his first signing. Of all people he asks to come with him, he chose to ask you. Hmm. . .why would that be?' Heero thought about that. It did leave him wondering. No doubt, he could have asked Catherine, Quatre, or even the Lisa that Heero learned of today. But then, Quatre could be working. Surely Manager wouldn't allow two of his biggest stars to be gone over the same weekend. Lisa could very well have had a good reason as well. "Know what I think?" Jamie's verbal thoughts cut through Heero's silent ones. "I think you're his Muse." "Muse?" "Ancient Greek Mythology. They were the daughters of Zeus. There were nine of them, and they inspired all creativity." "Daughter." "Well, you could be an offspring of a Muse, but anyways, what I'm saying is that you could very well inspire him. I mean, he did make Nash a fictional you." Heero stared at her a moment before closing his eyes and pushing from his sitting position. "Believe what you want." Was all he said before heading over to Trowa. The Latin was clearly thinking the same thing. Given the hour break, Trowa had chosen to take 15 minutes at the beginning of each hour. This time, they sat in the stairwell instead of locking themselves in an elevator. Trowa really wanted to ask what Heero thought of the book so far, but reconsidered. He wasn't sure if he wanted Heero to tell him what he thought. So, for the first few minutes, they sat in semi comfortable silence. Heero was the one to change that. "Why did you want me to come?" He kept his blue eyes to the step below where he was sitting. Trowa, who was leaning against the wall to Heero's right, studied his profile, wondering why he was suddenly being asked. "You didn't really want to?" "It's not that. It's just that you could have easily asked someone else." "But I didn't want anyone else." Heero looked up and Trowa realized the several different ways that what he said could have been taken. "I mean, I see Catherine every day; Quatre at least once a month. . .it's been nearly a six months I last saw you. . .and I. . .I missed you." Before he knew it, the words were spewing again. He closed his eyes, waiting to be laughed at or scorned. "I've missed you too." Heero never really thought about it before, but after hearing Trowa say it, it explained a lot. Trowa was shocked by the response. "I have some overdue vacation time coming up. Why don't we take a trip to Earth. Maybe Hawaii, or some place that doesn't have big cities." A smile pulled Trowa's lips as he nodded. "I hear that the Northern part of Michigan has nice camping grounds." Heero glanced up at his friend. The thought of time away from everyone and everything, in a log cabin, nestled in a thicket of woods, was quite appealing. "Michigan it is then." "Just let me know when and how long." "I'll have to give you a call when I get back home." Heero stood and stretched. "Speaking of Catherine, how's she doing?" "She's all right." "Still making soup, I see." "How can you tell?" "You look thinner. Probably from lack of food." Trowa chuckled as he remembered the look on Heero's face after tasting Catherine's soup for the first time. For someone that reacted to practically nothing sure made up for it that day. "I tried giving it to the dog act once, and they ran, yelping." "Can't blame them. It could probably eat through Gundanium. Any new acts added?" "Not since the rapidly changing couple." "That is pretty interesting." Heero stated as he tried to remember the pair's names from when Trowa had introduced them. He knew one to be a female, but he had a feeling that her name hadn't been Lisa. For some reason, he remembered it as Catina. "You never told me why you settled here." Trowa ventured and Heero sighed. "You can only wander for so long before you wonder why you wander." "Maybe you're looking for something." "Could be. . .but if it can't be found in nine years, maybe it's not worth the time." "Sometimes it takes longer." "Or, it could just be in my blood to travel." "You've done well here so far. You've been here almost a year." "I know, but it's starting to get to me again. I'm considering moving." "Why?" "There's nothing here. There's never anything." Heero glanced down at his watch. "We should head back before Jamie comes looking." "I'm guessing you're not fond of her." "I'm not blind to her wandering eyes. She's been staring more at my crotch than my face." That said, he started to leave, Trowa following. He grabbed the door and pulled it open for Trowa. "You can be an intimidating person Heero. Especially to strangers that don't know you.. . .besides, from what I remember, you're nicely packaged." Realizing what he had just said, Trowa quicken his pace. He silently scorned himself for making such a statement. "Nice of you to remember." Heero stated teasingly.
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