[ This feels like permission and doubt all in one, somehow; like Kojiro's just thrown another ball into play, and Kaoru passed it back with effortless grace and a hint of detachment. Back in his court, just like that. Like Kaoru's trying to gauge just how committed Kojiro really is to the idea of being out and being okay with it.

Kojiro's not sure why he expected anything different. He's not sure he actually did expect anything different, when it comes right down to it. He doesn't know what this is like, after all; there are pain points here that Kojiro can't imagine, because he's never had to live them. Through all the years he loved Kaoru, he was still able to pass himself off as the manly, straight, stereotypical heterosexual; because no one ever asked, and it was easier to just play along and roll with the belief that he'd never be-- a lot of things. Smart enough, hot enough, rich enough, talented enough, whatever enough to pull Kaoru's interest.

But now? Now, Kojiro's smile is like the sun, blinding, lighting up the dead of night, and he snatches Kaoru up in his arms again without warning. ]

That didn't take you long to decide. It's like you were planning it anyway.

[ Kojiro's voice is muffled against the kisses he's pressing to Kaoru's neck, but Kaoru can hear the sly laughter there anyway. Thankfully -- or maybe foolishly -- Kojiro's less prone to worry about the long-term implications of all this. As far as he's ever been concerned, no one who matters is gonna give a shit, and that's all there is to it. No point in overcomplicating something that makes them both so happy. ]

You make losing sound real good, pretty boy. How am I supposed to concentrate on kicking your ass, after that? Cheater.