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"Boot Camp"Written By: Snowdragonct Disclaimer: Don't own any part of Gundam Wing or the characters, more's the pity. This is for fun...no profit involved. Warnings: AU (sort of), yaoi, swearing (lots), some OOC (probably), some violence, references to NCS (especially in later chapters) Pairings: 1+2, 3+4 (to start with) A/N: This is the first time I'm getting up the nerve to post a story...hope it's not too similar to anyone else's (haven't seen one just like it). Candid, kindly-delivered critiques will be greatly appreciated...please don't rip my head off too much? Um, and the old "don't like, don't read" phrase holds true. Oh, and it's fiction, and I don't have a law degree, so there's sure to be some inaccuracies...can we just pretend, please? Thanks in advance. Rating: NC 17 Summary: Four boys in the juvenile justice system
receive a last chance to make something of their futures. Will boot
camp make or break them? And can they ever learn to be a team? "Boot Camp" Chapter Fifty: Parting Ways Wufei, Zechs, and two of the L1 officers were gathered in the office before dawn, discussing the extradition. The enforcers hadn’t been pleased at Wufei’s determination to accompany them, and were on the vid phone trying to protest it to their superiors. The Major eyed Wufei over their heads as the two men leaned towards the screen. A slight frown creased the officer’s forehead at the sight of dark circles under the Chinese man’s eyes. Then, as if sensing his perusal, the dark eyes rose to meet his, and Wufei gave a brief, grim smile of reassurance. He’d gone longer on less sleep, though he admitted to himself he was grateful that Maxwell had the decency to put him at ease early enough for a few hours of welcomed rest. The ranking officer from L1 straightened, muttering a curse, and turned to the two MSC officers. “I don’t know how you pulled it off, Merquise, but it appears we have to allow Chang to go with us.” Zechs inclined his head politely. “I was assured you would,” he said with cool courtesy. “Now, about that other small concession?” “His teammates can say goodbye,” sighed the man, realizing how futile it was to conduct a power struggle with Major Merquise, especially over something so simple. “But,” he added, wanting to maintain some semblance of control, “they’ll have to meet in the open…the compound…just before Yuy boards the transport vehicle.” “Good enough,” shrugged the Major. “Chang--?” “I’ll get them,” Wufei said eagerly, knowing the boys would be up, and just about to head for calisthenics. He didn’t think they’d mind being a few minutes late. “We’ll have Yuy in the compound in fifteen minutes.” The two officers strode out to ready their prisoner, and Wufei looked at Major Merquise with unconcealed gratitude. “This will mean the world to Team Wing, sir.” He gave a rather shy smile. “To me, too.” Zechs smiled back, ice-blue eyes twinkling. “I’m glad I could reward some of the excellent work you’ve done here.” He walked around the desk so he was face to face with the dark-haired officer. “You’re a very talented instructor, Wufei. And an even better judge of character. You brought out qualities in these boys that no one else has ever even seen. I’m impressed…and not just with Team Wing…with all your recruits. And with you.” By this time a faint blush had crept up Wufei’s cheeks, and he forced himself not to look away. “Thank you, sir. I had the best teacher.” For once, even the unflappable Zechs Merquise seemed taken aback. “You—I—I’m glad you think so,” he finally managed gruffly. “I always thought it was your skill as a student that made it so easy.” Wufei laughed then, pleased with himself for causing the Major a moment’s unease. “Perhaps it was,” he shrugged, allowing a touch of cockiness to show through. “We could discuss it over that dinner I owe you.” The Major smiled. “I’m glad you haven’t forgotten.” “I never forget a debt,” replied the Chinese officer. But he softened the comment by giving his superior officer a candid look. “And that debt is one I’ll be pleased to pay.” Zechs grinned. “Glad your star team outmaneuvered you, Chang?” “Very,” came the complacent response. “Almost as glad as I’ll be to outmaneuver whatever prosecutor they throw Yuy’s way.” He gave a firm nod. “As soon as Yuy and I get back from this travesty of justice, I’ll be delighted to have that dinner with you, sir.” Zechs sighed, shaking his head. “Just go get the boys so they can see their leader off. Maybe that will appease Maxwell so he doesn’t try anything rash.” Wufei chuckled. “He already did, sir. Last night.” “And did you thwart his efforts?” Wufei grimaced slightly. “Let’s just say,” came the diplomatic reply, “he eventually promised to stay in the barracks until reveille.” “Ah.” Zechs smirked inscrutably. “So that wasn’t him I saw slipping into the roof vent on the detention building last night?” Wufei’s eyes widened. “What?! So that’s how the little bastard did it!” He scowled deeply. “But how could he have gotten out of the barracks? I had the door and the window watched.” “There’s your mistake,” shrugged the other man. “You were watching Maxwell. You should have watched the ‘objective,’ Yuy.” The Chinese officer was tempted to slap his forehead in disgust. Of course! It made perfect sense the way Zechs put it. He glared at the Major. “Why didn’t you stop him?” “Because he’s so damned entertaining,” came the unrepentant reply. “And why didn’t you tell me?” “Because you are, too.” Zechs’ eyes sparkled merrily. “Admit it, Chang. You love the boy’s resourcefulness.” Wufei couldn’t help but smirk back. “He is fun to watch when he’s faced with a challenge.” He shrugged. “For that matter, they all are.” “Helluva team.” Zechs adjusted a sleeve, heading for the door. “I’d like to keep them together at the Academy. They work well as a unit.” “I agree completely.” Major Merquise held the door open, gesturing the Captain out first. Wufei murmured a polite thanks, but as he walked away towards Team Wing’s barracks, he had the distinct feeling the other officer had only made the gallant gesture so he could ogle his subordinate’s rear end as he walked away. A furtive glance over his shoulder assured him he was right, and he shook his head, feeling a familiar blush on his face. He hadn’t given much thought to his sexual preferences in the past…but after watching the burgeoning relationship between Heero and Duo, and obviously Trowa and Quatre, he could appreciate the type of equality that could spring from such a pairing. And being one who valued strength in a partner, and who hadn’t been able to find it in female form, Wufei was beginning to rethink his approach. Perhaps that dinner with the Major would be a chance for him to evaluate the merits of such a relationship. “This is not the time for thinking about such things,” he muttered aloud to himself, scowling as he reached the barracks and pushed the door open. The three boys were just finishing their morning preparation, each in a clean uniform, looking neat, tidy, and ready for duty. Duo spun so quickly at the sound of the opening door that his braid whipped around and nearly thwacked him across the face. “Captain? Can we see him?” he asked eagerly, indigo eyes searching the Chinese man’s face. “Yes, Maxwell. We got you about five minutes…out in the compound by the transport.” He shrugged slightly. “It’s the best Merquise could do.” “That’s fine!” Quatre exclaimed. “Just so we can say goodbye…wish him luck.” Wufei smiled wryly. “Wish us both luck. I’m going with him.” “What?” came Duo’s startled response. “I’m going along to supervise Yuy’s incarceration and to plead on his behalf,” the soldier elaborated. He met the indigo eyes steadily. “I’ll make sure nothing happens to him.” Duo could read the unspoken apology in Captain Chang’s eyes…his regret at not having been able to do the same for Duo after the river crossing incident. The boy gave a reassuring smile. “Thanks, Captain. We’ll all rest easier knowing he’s safe.” Wufei nodded, jaw set resolutely. “Let’s get a move on. I don’t want to keep them waiting, or they may start trying to change the rules.” The three boys hastily closed up their foot lockers, and followed the officer out of the barracks and across the yard. Trowa and Quatre strode eagerly ahead as they neared the compound, but Duo remained in step with Captain Chang. “You know I saw him last night. Right, Cap’n?” he said conversationally. “I’m not stupid, Maxwell,” sighed the officer. “Well, thanks for getting us a chance to say goodbye this morning. Tro’ and Quat deserve that much.” “You’re welcome.” Wufei glanced aside at the boy, dark eyes inscrutable. “I suppose you and Heero did more than talk?” Duo looked studiously at the ground as they walked. “Uh, yeah.” He stopped then, looking up at the officer. “Y’know the doctor gave me a clean bill of health after—.” He grimaced slightly. “I know you an’ Heero go back a long way, and you want to protect him. But, I wouldn’t—I’d never risk giving him any kind of—disease.” “I know that,” Wufei said gruffly. “I’m more concerned about the—psychological aspects of—sex—for both of you.” “It wasn’t just sex, Cap’n,” Duo asserted. “There’s more to me an’ Heero than that…” “I know you care about him,” Wufei agreed. “I love him,” Duo corrected, looking away and fiddling restlessly with the end of his braid. Wufei absorbed that information without comment, nodding his head towards the others, and resuming their walk. Duo scurried to catch up, and then walked at Wufei’s side in silence.
“Five minutes, Merquise,” said the lead officer curtly, crossing his arms and staring sternly at the boys. Zechs nodded in response. “Go ahead boys, and say your goodbyes.” Quatre stepped up to Heero, aquamarine eyes soft with concern. “We’ll work hard while you’re gone, Heero. We won’t let the team lose an inch.” “I know that,” Heero said with a slight shrug. “You three are the best.” “We’ve had the best leader,” came the prompt response. “And we’ll get you back.” Quatre stepped in close, despite a glare from one of the guards, and hugged Heero. “Trowa and I will take care of Duo, promise!” he whispered into his friend’s ear. When he pulled back, Heero smiled. “Thanks, Quatre. I appreciate that more than you know.” Quatre gave a very uncharacteristically wry snort. “Empath, Yuy.” The other boy chuckled. “I forgot. Can’t hide much from you.” Trowa stepped up next, reaching a hand to rest firmly on his team leader’s shoulder. “I’ll keep them both safe no matter what,” he promised. “I owe it to the team…to all of you for giving me a second chance.” “You earned that chance, and you’ve paid what you owed and then some,” Heero assured him. “I’m proud to have you on my team, Trowa.” The green eyes widened at the rare use of his first name. “Likewise, Heero,” he said quietly. “You hurry back.” “I plan to.” Duo was the last to approach Heero, feeling a little undeserving, since he’d gotten to see him the night before. He resisted the urge to throw himself into the other boy’s arms, and ended up fiddling with the end of his braid, standing as close to Heero as he could without being obvious. A warm hand closed over his. “Stop. You’ll get split ends.” The familiar phrase made Duo look up sharply, his indigo eyes a little too bright. “Aw, Heero…this whole thing sucks,” he said miserably. “I know. But it’ll be over before you know it, and I’ll be back.” “Promise?” “On my honor.” Duo’s gaze had dropped to Heero’s lips, and his indigo eyes were slightly unfocused, as his mind wandered back to the previous night. “Damn it, Yuy…” “Shhh. It’ll be okay,” Heero assured him, the expression on his face showing that his thoughts were in the same place. His thumb caressed the back of Duo’s hand that he was still holding. “We’ll have other times together. You have to believe that.” “I want to.” But I lose everyone I care about. “You won’t lose me,” Heero said, as if reading the other boy’s mind. Duo drew a shaky breath, swallowing hard. “I sure hope not,” he said in a voice that quavered just a bit. “I don’t think I could survive that.” “Yeah, I feel the same way about you,” came the husky reply. Deep blue eyes locked on Duo’s. “Aishiteru.” Duo cocked his head to the side, frowning quizzically. “I don’t speak that much Japanese, Yuy. You’re gonna have to translate that one.” “You’re a bright boy,” replied the team leader, winking teasingly. “Look it up.” He gave Duo’s hand a last squeeze, and let go, turning and climbing into the transport. Wufei stepped up beside the braided boy. “It means ‘I love you,’ Maxwell,” he said quietly. Duo looked up sharply, eyes wide. And then an irrepressible smile found its way to his lips. “Really?” Wufei nodded. “It’s not something he’d say lightly, either.” The indigo eyes sparkled, even as Duo dropped his head slightly, blushing. “Me neither,” he murmured quietly. Then he looked up at Wufei with a sudden, burning intensity in his eyes. “Keep him safe, Captain, please?” “Of course,” came the almost affronted response. “And keep yourself safe,” Duo added, giving the Chinese man a long, frank look. Wufei smiled, reaching to pat Duo’s shoulder. “No need to worry about me, Maxwell. I’m there to watch Heero’s back…not the other way around. You just behave yourself.” “I will,” Duo said firmly. “I promise you, I’ll stay away from Kushrenada. I’ll do as Major Merquise says. I won’t set a foot out of line while you’re gone. You don’t have to worry about me…you just concentrate on helping Heero.” His smile widening, Wufei pulled the boy into his arms, giving him a firm hug. “Maxwell,” he murmured in his ear. “If I had a son, I’d want him to be you.” When he pushed the boy to arm’s length, they were both blushing. But Duo managed a wry smirk. “Go on then, dad, before you miss your shuttle.” Wufei didn’t tease back. He just gave the boy a warm smile. “We’ll be back before you know it.” “God, I hope so.” Duo walked over to stand beside Trowa and Quatre, watching as Wufei and the remaining L1 officers got into the transport, and it pulled away towards the gate. Kushrenada was standing at the door of the administration building, a satisfied smirk on his lips. He very deliberately caught Duo’s glance, allowing himself a smug smile, and a knowing leer. The boy’s face flushed in anger, and he ducked his head, turning to see Major Merquise’s eyes on him. “Don’t let him bait you, Maxwell. We’ll have the last laugh. I promise.” Duo nodded, although he wasn’t entirely convinced. “I’ll accompany you and your team to calisthenics to explain your lateness,” offered the Major. “My—?” Duo shook his head. “We’re Heero’s team.” “Until his return,” replied Zechs, choosing his words carefully, “you will lead the team, Maxwell. Captain Chang’s orders.” Duo glanced warily at his teammates. “You okay with that?” “Of course,” Quatre assured him. Trowa nodded as well, refraining from comment. There’d be time to tease the reluctant leader later. “Excellent,” said the MSC officer, pretending, just for the sake of diplomacy, that it mattered if the two other boys objected to the decision. “I expect Team Wing to finish final exams and simulator testing in fine style.” “And then do we get to pay Kushrenada back?” Duo asked, eyes glittering dangerously. “Most assuredly.” The Major put a reassuring hand on Duo’s shoulder as they walked towards the exercise yard, and the boy glanced back warily. But he was met with amused blue eyes. “Not flirting, Maxwell,” murmured the officer quietly. “I only have eyes for one man, and, as pretty as you are, you aren’t him.” “Chang?” Duo guessed with uncanny accuracy and a sly smirk. The Major shrugged nonchalantly, dropping his hand back to his side. “That’s not your concern.” “He’s my guardian,” Duo reminded him. “I’ve got a vested interest in his happiness.” A faint smile flitted across the regal features. “He was right. You are quick.” He quirked an eyebrow at the boy. “What’ll it take to get you on my side?” “Prove you’re worthy of Chang, and I’ll be your biggest proponent,” Duo said with a shrug. “Don’t ask much, do you?” came the wry response. “If the Captain could win my trust, I’m sure you can,” the boy replied. “Assuming, of course, that you truly are worthy of him.” “I’m not,” came the frank, self-deprecating reply. “I’m not sure anyone could be. But I’d like the chance to try.” Duo eyed him warily. “You keep Kushrenada from messing with any of the recruits, and I’ll be inclined to put in a good word for you,” he conceded. “Any of the recruits?” “This isn’t just about our team. Kushrenada hates the whole idea of Camp Peacecraft. He might strike at anyone…and frankly, I’ve got friends here beyond just my teammates.” Zechs laughed in delight. “Maxwell, I wish I had this all on video. You’re the best damned testimonial for what this boot camp can do for juvenile delinquents ever!” They were almost to the exercise yard, and Duo was still trying to decide if he should be insulted by the officer’s statement. He didn’t think of himself as a poster child for juvenile reform; but then again, he had to admit, before the camp he wouldn’t have cared what happened to any of the other inmates. Being in that setting with them had shown him what friendships were really worth. He’d found a new appreciation for the concept of teamwork, both within and outside of his own team. He just didn’t realize his discovery was that obvious to someone observing. But apparently it was, as both Chang and Merquise had made mention of his progress. He sighed deeply, his thoughts slipping back towards Heero’s situation, and immediately felt Quatre’s hand on his other shoulder. “We’ll get him back, Duo. Both Chang and Merquise promised…and I believe them.” “Thanks, Quat.”
“Don’t worry, Yuy. I fully briefed the Major. He knows all the pertinent data on every recruit, and he knows what sort of treachery Kushrenada has perpetrated.” He gave a short, decisive nod. “He’ll do an excellent job of managing things in my absence.” Heero scowled slightly, recalling the way the Major had looked at Duo when they first met—the subtle come-ons and near-flirting. “I don’t like the things he said to Duo in the mess hall,” he said frankly. Wufei gave a quiet chuckle. “Don’t worry, old friend. That boy’s only got eyes for you.” He met the blue eyes squarely. “He told me he loves you.” “Hai. He told me that as well.” Heero felt a pang of loss as he recalled lying entwined together on a prison bunk when Duo had admitted his feelings. Not that he hadn’t guessed at them earlier; but it was different hearing the actual words. “And you told him the same thing,” Wufei pointed out. He shook his head slightly. “When did that happen?” “How the hell should I know?” sighed Heero. “Maybe at first sight. Something sure happened the moment I laid eyes on him.” “Then don’t worry about losing him to anyone else,” Wufei suggested. “Besides, the Major only wants Duo for his mobile suit aptitude. He’s said words to that effect more than once.” His dark eyes sought the trees rushing past outside the window. “And I’ve got a dinner date with him after you boys graduate.” Heero darted a stunned look at his long-time friend. “’Fei? I didn’t know you—are you—?” Wufei shrugged. “I have no idea, Yuy. But I see the way you and Maxwell interact, and there’s a certain—appeal to the idea of having a partner who’s my equal in strength and intelligence.” “But doesn’t he outrank you?” came the not-so innocent query. “I said ‘strength’ and ‘intelligence,’ Yuy. Not rank,” came the slightly defensive reply. “And it’s not like I have a choice about the dinner. It was the wager I lost when you boys got the flag away from me.” Heero threw back his head and laughed aloud, making all four L1 enforcers look back at the two of them in confusion, clearly unable to figure out what they might have to laugh at. “Ah, ‘Fei, no wonder you were so pissed!” he chuckled in delight. The other man glowered. “I wasn’t ‘pissed,’ and did you learn that word from Maxwell? It’s not your usual turn of phrase.” “I’ve learned a lot from Maxwell…from Duo,” Heero assured him, his tone warming. “Not the least of which is that you should never let a chance slip through your fingers. I suggest you enjoy your dinner date, and see what opportunities present themselves.” Wufei grinned back. “That sounds more like you, Yuy, at least in the way it’s phrased. And if I’d had a clue about how much you boys would learn from one another, I’d have put aside my misgivings from day one.” His onyx eyes were bright and eager. “If Maxwell taught you to grasp at opportunities, and you taught him to think things through, it was a perfect combination having you on the same team.” Heero’s smile was uncharacteristically wistful. “I’d definitely call us a perfect combination.” Wufei chuckled. “You are so infatuated, Yuy. I never thought I’d see the tough-guy Heero Yuy love struck.” “You just wait,” Heero shot back calmly. “When you and the Major are an item, I’ll have ample opportunity to tease you right back.” The Captain glared at him. “I wouldn’t advise it. I’ll still outrank you.” “For now,” came the complacent reply. Heero had no intention of being mediocre at soldiering. And he knew that as rank went up, promotions were fewer and farther between. It was entirely possible he could eventually catch up to his childhood friend. “First things first,” Wufei said, sobering. “Let’s clear up this nonsense on L1 and get you back to your team before Maxwell has a nervous breakdown.”
It was a weary group of boys that ended up at the mess hall, listlessly picking at meals they were almost too tired to eat. Jason’s team had stayed close to Team Wing all day to provide moral support when they heard about Heero. And by supper time word had spread to other teams, and in a sudden show of support, Austin’s group also came to the same table as Duo and his teammates. Nonetheless, the mood at the table was somber, at best. “Y’suppose Yuy’s back to L1 yet?” Mickey spoke up quietly. Austin silenced his teammate with a glare. “Shut it,” added Richie, glancing warily at Duo, who was stirring his food around his plate. “’S okay,” Duo drawled wearily, glancing up with a wan smile. “Heero’ll be back soon. Chang promised.” “Then how about you eating a little of that stew?” Trowa asked, nudging the braided boy with an elbow. “You know how Yuy worries about your eating habits.” Duo nodded, forcing himself to scoop up a bite of food. Quatre smirked at Trowa, silently commending him for the gentle reminder. “I talked to Major Merquise a little,” the blonde told his teammates and their friends. “He ordered a complete, in-depth autopsy of Odin Lowe’s body. They’re gonna try to prove he was murdered there in the hospital, so it couldn’t have been Heero’s fault.” “What if it was?” asked Ben, frowning in concern. “What if the only cause they can find is the original assault?” Duo looked up at him sharply, anger flaring in his eyes. “Doesn’t matter!” he snarled out bitterly. “The bastard deserved it.” “And Chang will make sure the court knows it!” Quatre interjected quickly. “You know he will, Duo. He’ll bring in as many witnesses as it takes to prove that Heero had no choice…that anything he did to Lowe falls into the category of self-defense.” Trowa sat back in his chair, eyeing the boys around the table. “Yuy’s case aside, boys,” he said quietly, his calm voice cutting through the tension. “We need to be on our guard against Kushrenada. It’s obvious he’s got it in for all of us…he’s like a vulture waiting for a chance to swoop in for the kill. He’s tried to send Duo to prison, and succeeded in sending Heero there…plus he’s responsible for Jason’s injuries, and probably the obstacle course sabotage.” Austin nodded, leaning slightly forward. “Richie used to pal around with one of Kyle’s boys, and he heard that the warden was trying to make sure enough inmates fail so that they scrap the whole idea of boot camp.” “So he used Kyle’s team to do his dirty work?” Quatre demanded, his eyes uncharacteristically cold. “Some of it,” shrugged Austin. “I think it was mostly Kyle himself who was in the warden’s pocket.” His green eyes went to Duo’s face. “You did a good thing, getting Kyle shipped out.” Duo glanced up with a bleak expression. “Didn’t do it for any noble reasons, Austin,” he shrugged. “The fucker wouldn’t shut up about solitary, and I didn’t want to listen to him any more.” Austin gave a snort of acknowledgement. “Remind me not to piss you off, Maxwell.” His tone of voice managed to coax a half-smile out of the moping boy. “You already did, Pritchard. Why d’you think you got shoes full of shit?” “Guess we got off easy,” grinned his former enemy. Duo leveled a steady gaze at him. “You didn’t cross the line as much as Norton did.” “Damn near,” shrugged the other boy. “An’ I’m still sorry about that.” “Don’t be.” Duo shrugged. “Water under the bridge.” Quatre’s face had turned pensive. “Not necessarily, Duo,” he corrected. “If Austin feels like he owes us…I say we let him help bring down Kushrenada when the time comes.” The indigo eyes shot him a surprised look. “You wanna call in favors, Quat?” “Any and all,” came the complacent response. “We’ll need all the help we can get.” “You’ll get it,” Ben spoke up, his tone firm. “Anything we can do to help, consider it done.” Quatre smiled almost impishly at him. “I remember how far you’ll go to help a friend,” he reminded the other boy. Both Ben and Adam blushed hotly at that, looking away from one another. Neither of the boys wanted to recall their impromptu make out session that had distracted the guards while Quatre sabotaged the prison bus. “Uh, yeah,” Ben finally muttered gruffly. “About that—you wanna keep it under your hat, Winner? We’d like to live it down.” “Live what down?” Austin prodded. “Nothing!” Ben and Adam snapped in unison. Quatre laughed, knowing that so far only his teammates had heard the whole story. And while it would make lovely blackmail material, he was too grateful for what the two boys had done to embarrass them with it. “My lips are sealed, guys,” he assured them. “But I’ll take you up on that offer of help. Somehow we’ve got to prove that Kushrenada’s been behind every disaster at this camp.” “I’d rather prove he’s behind Lowe’s death,” Duo said flatly, spearing a piece of stew with his fork as viciously as if it had been the hated warden. “We may not be able to make that connection,” Trowa sighed, frowning in thought. Quatre looked at him with a pensive expression on his face. “Connection…” he echoed. His eyes began to gleam with more assurance. “That’s it!” Duo raised his head to look squarely at his teammate. “You got it figured out, Quat?” But the blonde shook his head. “I have an idea, though. Just an idea.” He leaned forward in his chair, resting his elbows on the table, and the other boys edged closer, almost into a huddle. “We know Lowe’s death was ‘conveniently’ timed for Heero’s eighteenth birthday. So it stands to reason that since Kushrenada never left this camp, he must have had someone do his dirty work.” “We know that,” Duo said wearily. “If he never left, how did he contact his hit man?” Quatre asked, looking a bit smug. “Vid-phone.” Duo’s eyes widened. “Phone records?” “Exactly!” Quatre said in satisfaction. “There’s got to be a phone record.” “But the cops would need probable cause to pull his phone records,” Trowa pointed out. “Screw that,” Duo blurted. “It’d tip K. off if the cops started digging for a search warrant.” He pushed his chair away from the table. “We can hack the records ourselves, if Merquise will give us some library time.” “They monitor our on-line time,” Quatre reminded him. “Are you suggesting we convince Merquise to let us hack K.’s system?” Trowa wondered. “Leave that to me,” Duo smirked. “I’ve got Zechs wrapped around my finger.” His indigo eyes were sly. “After all, he wants to date my guardian.” “Whoa!” Austin blurted in surprise. “The Major? And Chang?” “Not yet,” Duo shrugged, giving his teammates a smug look. “But I’d bet money on ‘soon.’” “Holy shit,” muttered the other boy, shaking his head. The rest of the meal passed in relative quiet, while the inmates contemplated how they’d dig up evidence against Kushrenada. At least that’s what most of them contemplated. Duo found his thoughts drawn repeatedly back to Heero, and by the end of the meal, he was gritting his teeth to keep from screaming his frustration aloud. Quatre could sense his teammate’s growing tension, and took Trowa aside as they put their trays away. “Could you do me a favor, Trowa? Stay here with the rest of the guys for a half hour or so, and let me have a little alone time with Duo?” A brief wounded look crossed Trowa’s face, and he looked down at the ground between his feet. “Sure, Quatre.” The blonde stepped in close, forcing the other boy to look at him. “It’s not like that, Trowa. You know better. We’re friends, Duo and I. Just friends. And I think right now he needs a friend to talk to.” Trowa managed a weak smile, wondering if he’d ever get over his jealousy of Duo and Quatre’s closeness. “Go ahead, Quatre. I—I’m sorry I get so—.” He shook his head. “It’s just that I can’t believe you’d want me when you could have him—.” Quatre laughed quietly. “First off, I couldn’t have him. He’s in love with Heero…he has been for a long time.” His aquamarine eyes caught and held the deep green ones. “Secondly, I don’t want him. I want you…and I have for a long time. And thirdly, don’t you ever sell yourself short, Trowa Barton. You’re a great guy—smart, and funny, and caring. And I’m totally crazy about you. Just you.” Trowa couldn’t help himself, and pulled Quatre up against him for a lingering kiss. The sound of a throat being cleared interrupted their embrace. “Uh, everyone’s staring, guys,” came Duo’s chiding voice as he walked up and tossed his tray onto the counter. “Shit.” Trowa released Quatre, taking a step backwards, and darting a wary glance around the mess hall to see that Duo hadn’t really been exaggerating. Quite a few people were staring. “Shit,” he repeated, running a hand over his face, and smiling sheepishly. “Uh, I’ll see you two later,” he mumbled, hastily walking back over to the table and ignoring the whistles and catcalls from their colleagues as he sat down and started a conversation with Ben. “C’mon, Duo,” Quatre urged, grabbing the braided boy’s arm and steering him out of the cafeteria. “Wha’s up?” Duo asked, cocking his head to the side and giving his friend a curious look as they headed towards the barracks. “I just wanted us to have a few minutes alone,” Quatre told him frankly. “I know it’s been a long day for you…for all of us. And I want to be sure you’re okay.” He put a companionable arm across Duo’s shoulders as they headed to the barracks. “I dunno, Quat,” came the despondent reply. “I just—God, I miss him.” Then Duo waved a hand dismissively, trying to pull himself together. “Don’t mind me. I’m just tired. Got almost no sleep last night, and it was a killer of a day today.” He forced a patented smile. “I’ll be better tomorrow.” Quatre frowned a little. “It’s okay to worry about him. You can’t help it.” “Yeah, but we’ve got more important things to do right now,” Duo insisted. “We’ve got exams…training…and proving Kushrenada’s behind the whole mess Heero’s in.” “And we’ll deal with all that tomorrow,” Quatre assured him. “For tonight, let’s not dwell on any of it. Let’s try to think cheerful thoughts.” Duo cocked an eyebrow. “Like what?” “I don’t know,” came an exasperated reply. “Think about…that kiss up on the mountain. Good stuff like that.” The braided boy’s eyes went a little distant at that, and he very nearly smiled. “Yeah, it was great,” he sighed. Then a mischievous gleam entered his eyes. “Not nearly as great as last night, though.” Quatre blushed, slightly alarmed at the turn the conversation was taking. “That’s kind of, um, private, right?” Duo chuckled. “Don’t want me to kiss and tell?” he teased. He actually mustered up a leer for his friend. “How about you?” “Me?” “Yeah, you. And circus-boy. How was it?” “How was what?” Quatre asked, trying for innocence. The indigo eyes rolled, and Duo made a “well, duh” sort of face. “Sex. With Trowa.” He raised an eyebrow, giving his friend a sly look. “Y’know, sexy acrobat-boy? The slim, good-looking, extremely flexible guy you were in bed with last night?” Quatre’s face turned an interesting shade of scarlet, and he stammered for a response. “I d-don’t think I should—.” “Of course you should,” Duo chided. “This is me you’re talking to. The one who kept pushing you and circus-boy together? The one who was willing to kiss you to make him jealous?” Quatre sighed, looking away in embarrassment. “It was—wonderful,” he admitted quietly. Duo made a clicking sound with his tongue. “C’mon, Quat…that’s too vague.” He wore a slightly desperate look, and the blonde boy frowned slightly, reaching out with his empathic ability and once again sensing his friend’s tension and—fear. He realized Duo was looking for a way to think about something—anything—other than Heero’s plight. And since that had been his intention when he asked Trowa to give them some private time, he felt like he had to follow through. “What?” he said, trying for a snide tone. “You want a—blow by blow description?” The braided boy turned, eyes widening at the unexpectedly lewd comment from the sweet blonde. “Uh…just something a little more detailed than ‘wonderful’ would be nice,” he stammered out with less confidence than before. Quatre grinned, tightening his grip around Duo’s shoulders. “Well, for starters, he’s a great kisser…” he said, his tone a little dreamy. “Yeah?” “Mm-hm.” Duo half-closed his eyes thoughtfully. “I’d have thought he’d be a little—I dunno—impatient. After all, he did wait weeks to get you in the sack.” Quatre rolled his eyes. “Well, it’s not like he declared his intentions right at the start,” he pointed out. “Actually, from the first kiss to the time we, er, ended up, um…” Words failed him at that point, as he recalled Trowa’s talented hands sliding up under his shirt and caressing his back. “…screwing each other’s brains out?” Duo finished helpfully. “It wasn’t ‘screwing,’” Quatre protested, trying to pull his mind back to the conversation at hand. “Then what?” “It was…m-making…” “Oh, if you say ‘making love,’ I may have to whack you one, Quat!” Duo teased. “You had wild monkey sex. Just admit it.” Quatre paused, pulling Duo to a halt and turning to face him, aquamarine eyes earnest. “It wasn’t, Duo!” he insisted. “I never felt that way before…ever!” He decided to turn the tables. “Was that what you and Heero did? Had ‘wild monkey sex?’” The indigo eyes widened, and Duo hesitated. “N-no,” he finally managed to stammer out. “Well what then?” Quatre pressed. Duo glared heatedly at him. “First off, Winner, there were guards outside, so we couldn’t very well have ‘wild’ anything! Secondly, we didn’t have time to get too—creative. We just—just—.” “Made love?” asked Quatre with a knowing smirk. A blush crept up his teammate’s cheeks, and Duo shrugged, looking at the ground. “I s’pose you could call it that…if you wanted to be mushy about it…” Quatre laughed, tucking an arm around Duo’s waist and steering them towards the barracks again. “Well that’s what Trowa and I did...only loudly,” he admitted. “Gods, I’m having trouble imagining it,” Duo grinned. “You seem like the quiet type.” “Not when Trowa’s bangs are tickling my—.” Quatre stopped, a hand flying to his mouth. “Your what?” Duo demanded, his expression positively wicked. He grinned evilly. “That’s it, Quat. You better be prepared to tell me every intimate detail now.” He wrapped an arm around Quatre’s waist, poking his ribs with a teasing finger until the blonde squirmed and giggled involuntarily. “C’mon, little brother,” Duo urged. “Spill it! All of it!” So Quatre did…distracting his friend from his worries by telling him about every kiss and every touch, until they both were staring dreamily off into space lost in their private memories, and more than a little horny, when Trowa finally arrived at the barracks. The green-eyed boy looked at his two teammates, who were sitting side by side on Duo’s bunk, both wearing stupid grins. “Do I even want to know?” he asked wryly, walking over to his foot locker and sitting on it to unlace his boots. “Oh, you already do,” Duo assured him, his vague expression coming into focus, and a smirk settling on his lips. Then, the braided boy turned to look at Quatre, his gaze softening. “Thanks for getting me to stop obsessing, Quat. You’re the best.” “Any time.” Duo couldn’t resist looking over at Trowa with a knowing leer. “Although,” he added snidely, “to hear Quat talk, you’re the best, Barton.” Trowa merely looked up imperturbably, not the least bit embarrassed that the other two boys had apparently been discussing their respective bedmates. “Well, I guess that’s for Quatre to know, and no one else to find out,” he shrugged. The blonde’s face lit up, and he launched himself off the bunk, and into Trowa’s arms, kissing him soundly. “Awww,” Duo drawled, trying to keep the little
bit of envy out of his voice as he wished Heero were there for him
to do the same to. “You two are just so sweet.” He leaned
onto his pillow, rolling so his gaze was on the ceiling instead of
on his teammates. “Try to keep it quiet tonight, eh?”
tbc... |
