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“Kurusu-kun,” Akechi says pleasantly.
Akira knows it is never good when Akechi uses his pleasant voice.
He answers anyway; “Yes, honey?”
Akechi huffs out an annoyed breath. Ever since he started coming to Leblanc, he began to show more and more of his true colors. Akira appreciated the openness, but that could also have to do with how fake the entire Detective Prince shtick was. After taking a long sip of the cup of coffee before him, Akechi lets out a sigh. He keeps his eyes on Akira throughout every single one of these actions (Akira doesn’t show his antsiness). “I have a request. A favor, if you will.”
Oh no. Another tell that was never good with Akechi.
“Whatever you need.” Akira leans onto the counter, elbows placed down and chin resting on his clasped fingers. He shoots Akechi a smirk and a wink.
Unsurprisingly, Akechi hides his face in his arms. Surprising is his voice, as he musters out, “You can say no.” In all the favors Akechi has asked for in the past, he never outwardly claimed that Akira had an out. Most of the time that had to do with how fair most of the favors came out to be. Akira helping Akechi out with a case ( “How is it you have so many connections?” “I really don’t… People just talk to me.” ), then Akechi would help him with a couple of school assignments. It was the same whenever Akira asked for a favor. They always balanced it out, making it a fair trade-off.
How bad was this favor that Akechi has to clarify Akira can say no?
“What’s the favor?” Akira asks, leaning a bit more forward. Akechi had moved the mug out of the way at some point, probably to allow him to lean his head face down on the countertop, but this fact just allows Akira to lean further. He’s putting a lot of his upper weight on the counter, but it isn’t like Sojiro is here right now (he left Akira to lock up).
Akechi let out a groan.
Poking at the detective’s arm, Akira receives a glare in response. “C’mon, Akechi. I’m not a mind reader. Just tell me this favor you need.” He grins, hoping to release some of the tension that seems to be seeping into Akechi’s shoulders as the minutes pass. He’d come in looking a bit antsy, which should have been telling, but Akira figured he was just majorly tired from work today. Even though Akechi is just an intern and still in school, he gets shoved a lot of the workload. Some days he would come in for coffee, drink the entire mug in one go, and then knock out right on the counter. Sojiro always left Akira to close on those days, leaving the mess that is Akechi in Akira’s capable hands (or something).
Akechi mumbles something unintelligible into the counter. Akira leans forward, but nothing else is being said and he’s left completely lost.
Smiling softly, Akira pokes Akechi again. “I don’t speak gibberish either, you know?” He pokes another time. Then once more for good measure. “Come on, just tell me already.”
Raising his head, Akechi levels Akira with a glare. “ Fine .” He almost acts like telling Akira is a favor in itself. Akira supposes it is; he is rather curious on what this particular demand could be. “Would you…” He looks away then, cheeks reddening. It’s so weird to see Akechi so off his game. He’s a feisty one for sure and it usually takes a lot to make him flush so relentlessly (Akira would know. He has to get through many flirting attempts before Akechi finally cracks). “Can you—Could you—?”
“You sound like a children’s book,” Akira blurts. He just wants to release some of the tension from Akechi’s shoulders.
It seems to have the desired effect, only instead of a laugh, Akechi glares and levels Akira with a furious expression. “Could you take this seriously?!”
Akira grins. “Is that your request? I guess you’re right… being serious is pretty hard for me.”
Groaning, Akechi runs a hand over his face. He keeps the hand there and lets out a huff. When he lowers it, there’s a fiery look in his eyes—a sureness. “Can we fake date?”
That catches Akira off guard. He has to blink a few times, repeating Akechi’s words in his mind. When they register, he falls back, feet slipping underneath him. To keep from falling into the coffee beans he has to steer completely clear of them and ends up falling to the floor. Akechi lets out a howl of laughter and Akira glares up at the counter (he can’t exactly see Akechi from here).
Akechi leans over the counter, staring down at Akira. He has a smug smile on his face. Asshole .
“I could not help you for that,” Akira snaps and Akechi’s smile is gone. He sighs, standing up. His ass hurts, but he doesn’t dare mention that to Akechi lest he laugh more at his suffering. Akechi eyes him with a blank look. He must be waiting for Akira’s answer. “Why do we need to fake date exactly?”
“I said you could say no, did I not?” He won’t make eye contact now. Akechi sits back in his seat and keeps his eyes glued to the oh-so-interesting counter (it’s splintering wood, how interesting can it be?). Akira doesn’t give a reply, instead waiting for Akechi to continue. It takes Akechi a moment to realize this, however, so they sit in silence for a good couple of minutes. Eventually, Akechi glances up and catches Akira’s eye; yes, he’d been staring, but he was waiting. Akechi narrows his eyes, running a hand through his hair. “It’s just for a public appearance.” His voice sounds smaller than Akira has ever heard it before. Slowly, Akira can see the Detective Prince mask being placed upon Akechi’s face—plastic smile and everything. “You see, I’ve had a lot of… uhm… fans lately. It isn’t as if I’m ungrateful, but it’s a tad overwhelming.”
“Sooo,” Akira drawls, tapping his fingers onto the counter. “You’re thinking if you were dating someone… they’d all back off?”
“Precisely.” Akechi watches Akira’s fingers carefully before his eyes snap up. They’ve always been this rustic red and Akira finds them fascinating. Akechi carries so many emotions in his eyes; anger when he speaks of his piece of shit father, excitement when he’s talking about Featherman, and drowsiness when he’s working on a certain drawling case. “It won’t be for too long, I promise. Just enough to get the idea in their heads that I am unavailable, then we can stage a breakup.”
Akira blinks a few times. He comes around the counter, after taking off the green apron, and sits on the seat beside Akechi. There’s no complaint. “Won’t they just bother you even more afterward? Sometimes being in a relationship makes someone even more attractive.”
It’s quiet as Akechi tugs at his glove. Akira watches him deliberately and Akechi doesn’t seem to mind. “It will put the idea in their head that I am gay, to be more precise.” He sighs. “It’s not as if I try to hide the fact, anyhow. Although, teenage girls aren’t exactly prone to noticing such… hints.” Akira is a bit confused about what hints Akechi is referring to but decides to just ignore that. “So what says you?” Akechi makes thorough eye contact, a certain assuredness in his gaze.
“Yeah, sure, why not?” He sort of deflates in his seat. “I can’t say I’ve ever fake dated anyone,” or dated for that matter, but Akechi doesn’t need to know that. “What exactly do I have to do anyway?”
Akechi has a full-blown smirk on his lips now, face gleaming with absolute pride and excitement. “Going on a few outings should suffice.” He sits up a bit straighter, grabbing his coffee and taking a long sip. Akira thinks it might be cold by now, but Akechi doesn’t show any sign of displeasure.
They’ve hung out before. Akira can’t help but wonder if that will really do anything. “We go out all the time though. If people were going to get the wrong idea, wouldn’t they have already?”
The detective heaves a tired sigh. “Kurusu, do you know what relationships entail?”
“Uh,” Akira responds eloquently. He thinks for a moment and Akechi seems to patiently wait, drinking more from the cup in his hands. “I guess… physical affection?”
Akechi makes a noise of affirmation. He turns his body in the chair, facing Akira. Where his knees bump Akira’s legs, it causes flames to crawl up Akira’s entire right side. “If we hold hands, kiss, maybe have a few make—”
“Okay, okay, I get it!!” Akira replies hurriedly. Even the idea is making his heart speed up. He moves his hands to grip his knees, slouching a bit in his seat.
Placing a hand on his shoulder, Akechi smiles, but it’s all plastic. “I understand if you don’t want to. It’s a lot to ask.” Even if he’s giving Akira an out, Akira knows Akechi is worried. He must really be bothered by all of these fans and Akira can’t blame him. Besides, he’s asked Akira over anyone else he could’ve asked. Akira has introduced him to some of his friends, so he knows Akechi knows other guys.
So he places his hand atop Akechi’s and squeezes. “No, it’s fine. Just know the favor I’m going to ask of you is going to be tremendous.” Shooting Akechi with a grin, Akira grabs Akechi’s hand off his shoulder, bringing it to his mouth. Ever-so-gently, he places a kiss on Akechi’s gloved hand.
The blush on Akechi’s cheeks is so astounding, Akira is a bit surprised Akechi hasn’t passed out from overheating. He finds it endearing, for what it’s worth, but also a bit worrisome if they’re supposed to be kissing in public later down the line. Akechi’s hand stays positioned in the air even after Akira lets go. It only takes him a few seconds (longer than Akira expected, if he’s being honest) to recover as he clears his throat. “Right, of course. I suppose I’ll be in your debt, Kurusu.”
---
Their first “date” is a cafe Akechi has apparently frequented. Akira has seen it before on his food blog, courtesy of Futaba (he now visits the blog regularly; the selfies are actually really cute). Akechi directs them to a table outdoors, an umbrella overhead. It’s a nice view of the street in Kichijoji.
Akechi seemed to be taking this entire date thing seriously, too. He’d come all the way to Leblanc just to be able to head there with Akira. Even so, Akira finds Akechi’s entire act a bit eerie. His entire facade oozes pretentious and fake.
“You can order whatever you like. I’ll be paying,” Akechi tells him once they’ve taken a seat. He has that same pleasant smile on his face and his tone, while holding a hint of wariness, still remains cordial and sweet.
Akira grins, lifting an eyebrow. “Whatever? Are you sure, honey?” He aims to use that same warm-hearted inflection, but Akechi kicks him from under the table. Holding back a wince, Akira pushes his grin to widen just slightly. “I’ll have what you’re having.”
It seems to do the trick. Akechi actually seems pleased by the turn of events, nodding as his smile loses its plastic edge. Akechi places the order and while they wait, they discuss whatever comes to mind. It’s not actually that different from their usual hangouts. Well, not until Akechi lays his hand on the table, gloved palm face up. He doesn’t really say anything, eyes looking anywhere but at Akira.
Grin melting into a small smile, Akira easily slips his hand into Akechi’s. It’s nice, Akira decides. Even through Akechi’s glove, his hand is warm and when Akira squeezes once, Akechi squeezes back. Reassurance almost.
They each get a piece of cake and a coffee. Akechi comments on how he hopes Akira will like it. Akira mumbles how they could’ve simply shared a piece. For a while, it’s silent.
Akira dips his fork into the cake using his free hand, then leans his elbow on the table for support as he hovers the fork in front of Akechi. “You have to eat it before it falls off the fork,” he instructs. Akechi leans forward and takes the bite, all the while keeping his eyes locked on Akira. For some reason it makes his face feel warm. He takes the fork back, placing it on the napkin. Akechi’s hand feels heavier under his.
“I’ve never been fed before,” Akechi comments offhandedly.
“Me neither.”
In a matter of seconds, a fork is in front of Akira’s face and Akechi has a genuine smile on his lips—a challenge. Akira actually ends up laughing, before he leans forward. It feels a bit awkward, he realizes. Even so, he manages. Akechi places the fork down just as Akira had done.
“I suppose we both can’t exactly say we haven’t anymore, huh?” Akechi tilts his head cutely to the side, a fond look on his face. Akira tells himself it’s fake.
He nods anyway. “Guess not.”
They soon delve into an entirely different conversation as they finish the cakes. When they try the coffee, Akira comments on how the cafe could’ve done differently. Akechi simply says he thinks Leblanc’s coffee is better (Akira deems this a win). Akechi pays, as he said he would, and they leave the establishment.
On the way out, however, Akira can hear some of the conversations. One, in particular, stands out:
“That’s Akechi Goro, isn’t it?” It’s a girl.
Beside her is another girl, who replies in an excited tone, “It has to be! But who is he with?”
“I don’t know… He seems kind of plain, doesn’t he?”
Akira sighs, unsure what he’d been expecting. Akechi grabs for his hand and leads them away, not glancing back at Akira once. They walk around Kichijoji for a while, talking about anything that comes to mind. Eventually, Akira has to ask about it.
“Those girls,” he begins, unsure where to even go with it.
Akechi catches on. “It seems the plan is working, no?” He smiles at Akira, but there’s an edge. “For the record, you aren’t plain.”
He can’t help but laugh. “And grass isn’t green.”
That stops Akechi in his tracks somehow and Akira gets tugged back by their linked hands. Akechi frowns at him. “You’re not plain,” he repeats, full of conviction. “They know nothing about you. They—You’re not plain, Kurusu.”
“Akira.” He figures it's the easiest to comment on.
“Huh?” Akechi watches him carefully.
Akira clears his throat. “If we’re supposed to be… Well, you should call me Akira.” He tries for a smile, but it feels strained. He’s wanted Akechi to call him by name for a while now, but he’d never had the courage to ask. They’re friends, he knows that (or at least he really hopes), but some part of him worries that if he asks for too much or pushes, that he might lose Akechi. His other friends all asked him first to use his name. Akira has never had to ask before.
A nod, along with a contemplative look. “Right. I suppose you…” Akechi narrows his eyes. “You should call me Goro then.”
“Goro,” Akira tests. The name rolls off his tongue easily. He can’t help the smile that it brings to his lips.
For whatever reason, Akechi’s face gets a rosy tint. He starts walking again, pulling on Akira’s hand. Akira follows along.
---
There are a few more dates similar to the first. Cafes, restaurants, or sometimes simply looking around stores. They aren’t particularly different from the first but apparently will help in the long run.
Akira doesn’t quite get the semantics but trusts Akechi’s judgment on the matter. It’s not like it really matters to him. Besides, it’s almost exactly like normal, only with the addition of them holding hands or occasionally kissing the other’s cheek, or hand, or sometimes even nose.
It is a bit taxing to hear what people think. With someone as eye-catching as Akechi, a lot of attention is brought upon them. Akira usually avoids seeming assuming which gathers a lot more of the “plain-looking” comment. It doesn’t bother him, but it sure bothers Akechi.
Every single time, Akechi reminds Akira he isn’t plain, not in the slightest. And every time Akira smiles, believing it a bit more.
Even the movie theater date gets them some comments as they leave. Strangers pointing out The Detective Prince, before asking about who he could be holding hands with. It’s a bit entertaining until Akechi squeezes his hand a bit more firmly and leads them to the trains. Something about taking him home.
Akira feels pleased when Akechi tells him good night, kissing the top of Akira’s hand. He tries not to think about it too much and wraps Akechi in a last-ditch effort of a hug.
They even go to the planetarium in Ikebukuro. Their seats are in the line of sight of anyone, but when the room is dark, not much matters. Akira is actually a bit astonished with the presentation, excitement coursing through him when he sees the different stars and planets explained.
When he feels Akechi’s eyes on him, Akira figures it’s for any prying eyes. Maybe Akechi didn’t have the same realization that no one will really be paying attention to them. So he shoots Akechi a fiery grin before turning back to the production. He completely misses Akechi’s flushed cheeks.
---
Akira wakes up to his phone vibrating insistently.
It’s eight-thirty in the morning, which is way too early for him to be up. Leblanc doesn’t usually even open until eleven. Begrudgingly, Akira flips his body over (careful to avoid Morgana) and grabs for his phone sitting on the shelving unit beside his bed. He doesn’t know whether to be surprised or not when it’s Ann calling him.
Flicking his thumb across the screen, Akira moves the phone to his ear and lays back onto his bed. He closes his eyes, as he tries not to wince at the loud voice on the other end;
“ Kurusu Akira!! When were you going to tell me, you dummy?! ”
He lets out a tired grunt.
Ann must take it as a question because she answers in a matter of milliseconds. “ You’re dating Akechi Goro? When did that happen? And why did I have to find out from the internet of all places?!” She’s practically screeching into the receiver by the end of it.
From what he worked out with Akechi, they’ve been fake dating for a solid eight months. Something about needing substance and them feeling like they can finally make the relationship more public. However, Akira knows Akechi has hung around him and his friends for more than eight months. He needs a reason on why they’d hide it from them, too, but Akira knows Ann won’t be particularly happy. He doesn’t want to hurt anyone, making them think he can’t talk to them. Then again, he’s having to lie to them right now.
Should he just tell Ann it’s all fake? Akira hadn’t brought up his friends with Akechi.
Figuring he’d bring it up with Akechi first, Akira sucks in a breath and lies through his teeth. “Yeah, sorry… We… finally got to the place where we were comfortable with not hiding it anymore.”
“ Hiding it? Why? And… even from us? ” She does sound hurt. Fuck.
“I promise it was nothing against you.” Akira doesn’t really know what else to say. He didn’t want anyone to be hurt by this. It’s just to help out Akechi.
The other end of the call is quiet for a moment. Ann lets out a small breath. “ Alright, it’s fine. I get things happen. How long have you two been together though? I need all the details!! ”
He can’t help but chuckle. Then dread seeps in. Eight months is a long time… Ann is probably going to be pissed and rightfully so. “Eight…” he mumbles the rest, unsure how Ann will react.
“ Eight what? Days ?” Ann laughs wearily.
“Months?”
“ Months ?!” He has to pull the phone away from his ear at Ann’s loud questioning. Even Morgana startles at the noise. Ann continues on, “ You’ve been dating this guy for eight months and haven’t said anything?! Akira!! That’s a big deal!! Are—You guys must be serious then!! ”
Seriously faking . Akira holds back a groan and instead sits up to pet Morgana. The cat is curled up by his feet, purring soundly at Akira’s pats. He hums back a reply, unsure if he could even use words right now. It’s not like he talked with Akechi about how serious their fake relationship is supposed to be, but he supposes Ann is right and that eight months imply a certain seriousness.
There’s a squeal, along with frantic movement. “ Okay, okay!! That’s awesome!! I’m so happy for you!! ” Ann’s end goes silent again and Akira focuses his attention on Morgana who is already falling back asleep. “ We have to hang out soon so you can tell me all the details!! Like how you guys got together, how romantic he is, how— “
“Sure thing, Ann.” Akira can’t help the nervous laughter that releases from his throat. He’s going to have to have a serious talk with Akechi.
Ann lets out another squeal before she claims she has to get to work and hangs up. Plopping back down on his pillow, Akira brings his phone up and heads to social media. He’s a bit curious, truth be told.
It doesn’t take long to find a post on Akechi and himself. A picture. It’s actually a bit disorienting to see them sitting at their table in the cafe from their first date, unaware. Akira hadn’t even realized people were paying attention to them at the start of that date. The comments are vast, with some people saying they must be dating and some saying it's probably nothing. Akira finds himself laughing at some.
Closing out of the app, he sets his phone down and shuts his eyes. Whatever. He can deal with this.
---
“Akira,” Akechi addresses him with a smile.
They’re going to the aquarium this time. Akira’s actually never been, so he can’t fight the giddy feeling in his stomach. When he had told Akechi as much, the detective let out a joyful laugh and said something offhandedly about making it worthwhile. Apparently, a coworker had offered Akechi the tickets (he admitted this with flushed cheeks and a slight aversion to his eyes).
Saluting, Akira gives Akechi his brightest grin. “Morning.”
Akechi blinks. “Ah, yes. Morning…” It’s two in the afternoon, but Akechi must not want to correct Akira. He wonders if he imagined the eye twitch. Probably. “Shall we?” Akechi holds out his hand.
Akira glances back at Sojiro, who seems very interested in the siphon in front of him. Sighing, Akira takes Akechi’s hand and they’re on their way.
“I might have to kiss you today,” Akechi utters, voice low so anyone nearby won’t hear him. He watches Akira from the corner of his eye. “Is that alright?”
The concern is appreciated, even if Akira had figured they’d be kissing at some point. He nods in reply and keeps his eyes forward. They take the train to Shinagawa. Upon arriving, Akechi provides the attendant working with the tickets and they head inside the aquarium.
It’s actually a popular dating spot, from what Akira knows. Even so, he doesn’t know if he’d have as much fun with anyone else. It’s actually really entertaining, with Akechi providing facts on any of the aquatic life they pass and then Akira making a joke or pun about said fact. Akechi seems to appreciate the humor, even if he stifles his laughs into a gloved hand.
When they get to the souvenir shop Akira is quick to look for something to gift Akechi. He might not know anything about dating, but he figures it's nice to give something to Akechi in return. There’s a keychain of a fish they’d teased about; a zebrafish. Akira grabs it, moving to the checkout to pay for it (if Akechi notices, he doesn’t say anything but then again, he might figure Akira is getting it for himself).
They get back on the train and head off to get crepes. Neither of them are particularly fond of sweets, but it’s something to do. Akira pays for them, ignoring all of Akechi’s protests. It’s nice that Akechi is left-handed, which makes it easy to hold hands while they walk with their crepes in hand.
Akechi tells Akira about one of his assignments for school. It sounds like a grueling one and it doesn’t help that the people Akechi got assigned it with won’t do much. “I’m sure it will be fine though… it’s not as if it’s the first time.” He gives a dry laugh that makes Akira frown.
“If you need another set of hands, I don’t mind. I already have all of my assignments done.” It’s also a good opportunity to hang out a bit more with Akechi, albeit without all of this… dating stuff getting involved. It isn’t that he doesn’t like the dating stuff (he doesn’t want to think about how he feels on the fake dating), but Akira could use a reminder of where they stand.
In return, however, Akechi levels a shocked expression on him. “You… wouldn’t mind?” He seems hesitant. Akira just nods. It seems worth it when Akechi gets a bright smile. “Then yes, that… would be appreciated.”
They end up going to Inokashira Park, walking, and enjoying the view of the lake. The sun is a bit lower in the sky and a cool breeze blows past. It’s actually a rather nice day out, if a bit chilly. Conversations flows and they stop by the fences. Akira leans onto them, allowing the wood to support his weight while Akechi stands nearby a bit awkwardly.
Akira rocks back and forth on the fence, leaning his weight all the way back so he almost falls into the water behind him, then learning forward with the momentum. Akechi watches him with an eyebrow raised but otherwise masks any emotions. “If you fall, I will laugh.” Even as he says the words, Akechi’s lips smile his plasticy fake smile. It so doesn’t match his tone, but it’s actually a bit impressive.
“You could keep me safe,” Akira suggests. He stretches his arms out, palms facing up for Akechi to grab onto.
It only takes Akechi a moment to catch on and he walks closer. Instead of grabbing onto Akira’s hands, however, he keeps stepping forward. He ends up between Akira’s arms, along with situating himself between Akira’s legs. Then, ever slowly, Akechi moves his arms around Akira’s shoulders, gradual and warm. It takes Akira a moment to get the hint and wrap his arms around Akechi’s hips. The intimacy is clear, especially in the way Akechi stares down at Akira, his hair cascading around his face in delicate wisps.
Akechi is leaning down and Akira knows exactly where this is going—it helps that Akechi had mentioned it earlier in the day. So when Akechi’s lips touch Akira’s, almost perfect, almost like they were destined to be in this moment, Akira simply pulls Akechi closer. He deepens the kiss, making a needy noise in the back of his throat when Akechi leans even lower, smashing their lips in a way that’s almost bruising. Akechi’s hands effortlessly move to Akira’s hair, twining into each curl and making goosebumps rise on Akira’s neck.
Just when he goes to pull Akechi closer, closer, closer, Akechi pulls back. His lips look promptly kissed in a way that Akira is almost proud of. Even Akechi’s face is heated and his breaths come out in pants (not that Akira is faring much better). “That should do,” Akechi whispers.
And—Oh.
He has to blink a few times, sort of coming back to himself. Right. Fake dating. Fake kissing. Maybe Akira got a little too into that one. The thought alone is rather nerve-wracking and Akira soon elects to promptly shove it down. Plastering a grin on his face, he winks at Akechi in what he hopes doesn’t come off as unsuccessful as it feels.
Then Akechi is pulling his arms away, taking a step back. Akira suddenly feels very very cold, as Akechi feels further away. “Well?” Akechi asks, face expectant. For what? “How did… How… was it?” He shifts a bit, face turning more and more red.
The question startles Akira. So much so, that he makes a noise and shifts himself better on the fence—well, tries to shift. He ends up putting too much weight towards the back of the wooden fence, imbalance claiming him. Akira gives one last noise of exclaim before he ends up falling back. Noise dissipates and Akira makes the mistake of taking in a breath of pond water. He pushes himself up, breaking the surface. A couple of coughs leave him as Akira tries to dispel any water from his lungs. It burns.
Akechi stares down from behind the fence, gloved hands grasping the top of the fence and face stricken with worry. Ha, so he didn’t actually laugh. Akira must have thought that too soon, because, when Akechi spots that he’s okay, he lets out a little gaggle of laughter. It starts small but delves into something monstrous.
“A little help would be nice,” Akira grumbles. He tries to hoist himself up and it’s not like it’s hard, it would simply be nice to have an extra hand.
Seemingly getting the point, Akechi lets out a little snicker while he comes closer. He sticks a hand out for Akira to grab onto. “Of course, Akira. Just grab on.. perhaps we can stop somewhere for you to—“
He doesn’t get to finish his sentence when Akira uses all his might to pull Akechi towards him. There’s a loud, satisfying splash behind Akira that fills him with absolute gratification. Even when Akechi breaks the surface looking almost like a drowned cat, it’s all worth it. Akira swims closer, which might be a big mistake in itself, and lets out a laugh.
“Now we’re even.”
“I didn’t do anything to you! How are we even?!” Akechi shrieks. His entire facade is gone, making Akira prouder than he thought he would be. And like this, Akira can see Akechi’s makeup smearing.
He gets closer, lifting a hand to Akechi’s cheek. Akira delicately wipes at the smeared mascara that he hadn’t even known was applied. The swipe seems to take some of the foundation with it, revealing… freckles. Akechi Goro has freckles. Akira can’t help the fondness that creeps into his expression. Maybe that’s his downfall right there because he gets a bit eager. He brings his other hand to Akechi’s other cheek and tries wiping off any trace of makeup. Akira wants to see Akechi Goro. It’s an overpowering thought, a selfish thought. Akira knows just anyone can see The Detective Prince, but he wants to be the lucky person to see the true Akechi. The face behind the mask and facade.
Before Akira can get far, Akechi grabs his wrists, pulling Akira’s hands away from his face... “What are you doing?” And it’s not like Akira isn’t used to Akechi’s snappy attitude, but it somehow makes all movement cease. “Geez, I probably look like a mess..”
But Akira couldn’t agree any less. Because Goro isn’t a mess. He’s beautiful underneath all the fabrication. So, immensely beautiful that Akira can only wish he’d seen sooner. “No,” he ends up saying. Akira gently pulls his dominant hand away from Goro’s grip, bringing it back to Goro’s cheek in what he hopes is affectionate. What he hopes can show, can make Goro feel, just how much Akira is feeling. He puts all of his emotions into one gesture, into one expression. “You’re beautiful.”
And everything seems to freeze. Goro stares at Akira with wide eyes, mouth agape, and cheeks tinting with color. Akira presses closer almost in slow motion. He wants to be close to Goro, he realizes. Not even in a physical sense, but emotionally. He has this want, this desire, to understand Goro better. To be the person who can just… get Goro. He wants to be Goro’s other half and the thought is so demanding, so powerful, that Akira almost kisses Goro right then and there. It’s there in the way Goro leans into his hand. In the way, Akira can’t help leaning his forehead to Goro’s. Even in the way, Goro lets out a shiver, possibly from the cold pond water, or maybe because Akira’s feelings really are getting through.
“It’s frightening how good you're getting at this fake dating thing..”
Akira reminds himself of what's happening. He opens the eyes he didn’t know he closed. Goro is watching him, so Akira leans his head away. It’s not disappointment, oddly enough. Goro isn’t his, therefore Akira can’t be upset. It’s actually a feeling of hope. Akira knows how he feels now, he thinks. From here, he can just try and get Goro to understand those emotions.
So he laughs it off for the moment, suggesting they dry off.
The best they can do is sit on a park bench and await their clothes’ drying. It’s not too bad, with some sunlight still filtering into the park.
“Oh, I almost forgot,” Akira comments and looks over at Goro, “what exactly should I tell my friends? Ann called the other day, and, well…” He rubs at his neck, hoping he gets his point across.
“Isn’t the saying, to trick your enemy you must first trick your friends?” Goro asks, his head tilting just slightly. Akira knows it’s probably a habit at this point with how often he seems to do it. “Not that the goal is to trick any foe, but my point still stands. Perhaps you can just share the story we first came up with?” He smiles at Akira, but there’s an edge to it. “Besides, once we stage the breakup, it shouldn’t matter.”
While Akira can see Goro’s point, the thought of lying about all this unsettled him. He stares down at the bench seat, picking at the paint. It’s an orange that, when removed, reveals a fading brown. “I don’t want to lie to them.”
Goro huffs and when Akira glances over, the brunette is staring off into the water with a sour expression. “Why does it matter? I’m sure they’ve lied to you plenty.” Akira knows Goro hasn’t had many friends, so it’s not like he blames him. Even so, he does feel a bit annoyed. Goro may feel one way, but Akira can’t help feeling another.
“Just because someone does something to you, doesn’t mean you should do it back. Besides, I care about all of them a lot…”
“Then why didn’t you ask about this to begin with?” Goro’s getting rather snippy. His head darts to face Akira, eyebrows furrowed and mouth set in a deep-set frown. “Do you realize that if any of your friends mention, or even talk about this in public, everything can be ruined? All of this could be for naught.” Goro seems genuinely upset. His fists are clenched tightly in his lap and his eyes hold a fiery anger that has Akira frowning.
Akira releases a sigh. “Are you being serious? They’re not that careless. I just… it feels wrong to lie to them. Ann sounded really hurt that I've supposedly been keeping something from her.” He looks away, unable to hold the intense eye contact. It doesn’t stop him from feeling Goro’s gaze on him. “I know I said I would help you, but I’m just asking to have them in on it, too. I promise they won’t—“
“So you’re more worried about Takamaki-san than the plan. Got it.” Goro moves to stand up. “Sure, whatever. Tell your little… girlfriend what’s going on. Hopefully, she won’t spread rumors and ruin everything.” Goro glares down at him, before turning away.
“What? She’s not my—“
Goro doesn’t give him any time to explain. “Good night, Kurusu-kun.” He storms away, shoes squelching since they’re still very much wet.
Mood sour and anger coursing through his system, Akira stands and leaves in the opposite direction. He ends up stopping by a tree, watching as the sun sets and hoping his clothes can dry a bit more. The trains won’t be too happy if he’s still soaking wet.
When he makes it home, Sojiro says a greeting, and Akira goes to his room. He almost doesn’t change with how tired he is. It only takes fifteen minutes of lying face down on his bed, before he can make himself get up and change. The smell of pond water isn’t very comforting.
---
All of their fake dates seem to do just what they intended. Goro even has an interview about it at some point, where he discloses all their planned details. Akira tries not to think too deeply about it.
His friends ask, Akira lies through his teeth. He knows he should just be over it. That he shouldn’t feel so torn apart every time he has to lie to one of his friends, but it just gets worse each time. Akira feels like an asshole. His friends ask why he hasn’t told any of them about a relationship he’s been in for supposedly eight months, but his best counterargument is that Goro wasn’t ready. It feels half-baked and some of his friends take notice of it.
But he holds in the truth.
It’s not easy and he actually finds himself getting a bit upset that Goro couldn’t be more understanding. This didn’t only concern him, after all. Even so, he tries to let the anger subside.
He thinks he’s going to have to go on more fake dates, too, but no messages come. Akira isn’t sure if it’s a good or bad thing.
(A quiet part that he’s been pushing down likes to whisper how he misses Goro).
Probably good.
---
The next time Goro texts it’s an invite to one last date. Goro says they’ll need to discuss the breakup plans soon. Supposedly they have acquired the desired effect and can already wrap this up.
Akira doesn’t know why the text sets him off, but it does. Maybe it’s the way Goro phrases it, but Akira finds himself gritting his teeth as he types a reply.
The final date before their breakup is at Suidobashi. Rides are scattered about, along with multiple stands for food. Goro makes a comment about going on the more laid-back rides, phrasing it in a way that insinuates Akira wouldn’t be able to handle it. It starts an entire competition with who can last longer on all of the hardest rides.
In the end, the sun is about to set and Goro suggests the ferris wheel. Akira isn’t opposed, this is their last fake date after all. So he follows along, one hand in his pocket and the other in Goro’s hand. The silence is comfortable as they wait in line.
Once they’re situated on the ride itself, Goro in the seat across from Akira and their knees touching, the silence grows an uncomfortable edge. Akira finds it hard to make eye contact, suddenly being reminded how much he’s been lying to his friends about all of this. Sure, maybe someday they’ll all laugh about the memory, but in the meantime, he’s blatantly not able to tell them. It’s irksome in ways Akira can’t stand.
“You’re making a face,” Goro mentions. He leans forward in his seat, face closer to Akira’s.
Akira doesn’t want to fight over it. He really doesn’t want to fight over it. But— “Why can’t I just tell them?” He faces Goro, eyes pleading, begging. He hopes it gets across how important this is to him.
Only, it doesn’t. Goro’s face seems to get annoyed. “I thought I said you could?” His tone doesn’t match his expression at all. It’s said sweetly, even if there is an angered lilt.
“I don’t believe your words were exactly…” Akira huffs, rubbing his temples. This is tiring. “You don’t trust them and think it will ruin everything. That isn’t exactly… agreeing.”
Goro smiles politely, but it’s as fake as any. “Quite honestly, who you choose to tell is none of my business. I mean, of course, it might ruin my image, but that’s none of your concern.” The kindness is fraudulent and Akira is losing patience (which rarely happens). “Tell whatever friend you’d like.”
He could bang his head on the glass. Maybe that would release the rising annoyance in his chest. “Why don’t you trust them? Trust me ?” Because that’s what it comes down to. Goro doesn’t trust Akira to make the right call.
“You have many friends, Kurusu-kun.” Goro’s face blanks. “I’ve quite literally seen you make friends with cashiers or passerby. To be frank, I’d be surprised if the plan didn’t fail after you’ve told them.” He leans back in his seat, arms crossing over his chest. Akira can’t read his face at all and it’s frustrating.
“I’m not talking about telling everyone I know,” Akira replies, but Goro hardly seems convinced. He lets out a huff, mimicking Goro’s same position. They eye one another, almost sizing the other up.
Someone makes a noise and when Akira turns, it’s the attendant. The worker blinks at the two of them, before clearing her throat. “Did you two want to go again?”
The sun is already set.
Goro stands and walks out, not looking behind him to check if Akira is following (he is; of course he is). He heads directly for the exit to the park, steps as refined as usual. When they’re out, Goro finally stops and turns to Akira. Akira almost collides into him, but just manages to catch himself.
Using his extra height (it’s only an inch, but Goro seems to want to use any advantage), Goro squares his shoulders and straightens his back. Looking down his nose, he gives Akira a look . “I will call you later to discuss our… staging.”
For some reason, Akira feels peeved. He’s helping Goro, yet Goro is acting as if he’s doing Akira a favor. Holding back from rolling his eyes, Akira grabs Goro’s hand and tugs him the rest of the way to the train. If the motion is too aggressive, Goro doesn’t mention it.
They reach Akira’s stop first and Goro has to switch trains to head home. Before then, he stops Akira with a hand to the shoulder. “I’ll... call you. Good night, Akira.” He moves forward and kisses Akira’s cheek, before heading off in the direction of his train.
Akira’s cheeks still feel warm when he makes it to Leblanc.
---
The plan is discussed in specific detail. Goro has laid out exactly how he wants everything to play out down to the T. Even as Akira tries not to feel stressed, there is a lot of pressure. He doesn’t let Goro catch on to those concerns, however. Who knows what would happen.
But then Goro sends a text that aggravates Akira even more. It’s something small, a simple reminder for Akira to do his best. Even so, it sets Akira off. He’d already been feeling as if Goro wasn’t being appreciative. And yeah, maybe they were both stressed. If they didn’t pull this off properly, everything they’ve done could be for nothing and Goro’s public image would plummet, yet— yet Akira can’t dismiss how absolutely livid he is.
So he does the obvious option and decides to be petty.
If Goro wants to fake-breakup, well… jokes on him, Akira won’t be giving that to him. Akira heads out the night before their planned breakup date. It’s a simple idea he has. Simple and not as thought out as Akira probably should be making it, but whatever.
The original plan required Akira saying the first lines of the breakup, which seem to work perfectly in his favor. He arranges around that accordingly, up to the place they will be going. A little call here, a little tweak there, and Akira has an entirely separate plan from Goro’s original. Sure, maybe Goro will get mad, but the shocked expression should be worth it to see.
It helps that he has spare yen from his part-time jobs.
---
The fake date is held at a popular restaurant in Shibuya. Plenty of people are present, which seems to ease Goro. Probably because he knows it will work in their favor. For a while, it’s just them talking like normal. Akira can’t help fidgeting though, as a nervousness sort of creeps up on him. Nervous, yet excited.
“Akira?” Goro asks, a fake worry (at least Akira thinks it’s fake) plastered across his face. “You seem nervous. There’s no need to worry. I’m sure everything will go just fine.” He smiles then, something soft and kind. It almost feels real. Almost feels like Goro actually cares. Then he reaches across the table to grab Akira’s hand, his gloved thumb rubbing soothing circles across the surface of Akira’s hand.
Akira tries to give just as authentic a smile, but it falls flat if Goro’s furrowed brows and more rapid circlings are any indication. “I’m fine.” He switches his smile to a grin, something much more up his alley. Goro eases at the sight and nods. Akira counts it as a win.
The waiter stops by and they ask for water for now (with Goro’s plan, they wouldn’t need to place an order). By the time the waiter is walking away, Goro looks back at Akira, head tilted just so. “Well?” He lifts a single brow, a silent question in the air. So it’s time.
Showtime , Akira thinks to himself.
He shoots Goro a smirk and a wink, before reaching into his pocket and getting the necessary item. Then he’s on a single knee, holding back a laugh or any sign that this isn’t legit. It’s worth it in the end because Goro’s eyes are comically wide and his jaw is completely slack.
“Uhm..” Goro gives a nervous laugh, eyes darting away. They look anywhere but at Akira, almost entirely around the entire room. “Akira…” Another nervous laugh escapes from his lips. Akira doesn’t think he has ever seen Goro this red and the sight is delightful. After clearing his throat, Goro bites his lip, suddenly looking mortified. Hush and whispered, he says, “This was not the plan.” As if Akira is stupid.
So he smiles sweetly, flutters his eyelashes, and tilts his head in what he hopes is somewhat sweet looking. “Hmmm? What plan?” Akira tries not to have his smile amp up into something more sinister. “Goro, I think you know what I’m going to ask.” And maybe it’s like a game. Akira doesn’t actually know what Goro’s reaction will be and the anticipation has him thrilled.
It’s unknown if Goro’s eye actually twitches or if Akira is simply seeing things, but then Goro is placing his hands on each side of Akira’s face. “You’re an idiot,” he whispers and kisses him.
Akira is a bit surprised when people around them start clapping. Goro seems surprised as well, because he pulls back, looking around with wide eyes. Akira snorts and places the ring in Goro’s hand. The detective looks down at it like it’s some foreign object. Releasing a sigh, Akira explains, “You’re supposed to put it on.”
“Aren’t you supposed to put it on me?” Goro asks, but his face is crimson and his eyes won’t meet Akira’s.
Who is Akira to do anything but? Akira takes the ring back and takes Goro’s hand in his. He holds the hand like something precious, gently taking off Goro’s glove. Luckily, the ring fits (Akira simply used his own hand as reference), and more cheers erupt. It’s comical, but Akira can’t bring himself to laugh when Goro’s eyes are staring at his hand in such awe. All he can do is stare, watching as Goro’s eyes shine in a way he has never seen before. Then it’s gone and Goro seems unfocused for a moment.
“Are you two ready to order?” The waiter asks, holding back a wide smile.
Akira moves back to his seat and Goro puts his glove back on. They order and don’t talk about it again all evening. Not even when Goro says goodbye at the train station. It’s a simple goodbye, almost half-hearted. Akira tries not to think too far into it.
---
It’s two in the afternoon when Akira gets a call from Makoto. It’s not that odd, as they have calls every now and then to discuss school or upcoming plans.
Akira answers and regrets it immediately.
“ You—YOU !!” It’s Ann.
Then there’s Haru, too. “ Aki-chan!! How could you not tell us?! ” She doesn’t sound hurt at all, more delighted than anything.
Akira thinks he hears Makoto let out a long sigh. “ Ann mentioned you were in a relationship, but now you’re engaged and you never mentioned anything .” If anything, she sounds more disappointed. “ I’m… still happy for you, anyhow. As long as he makes you happy .” It’s a lot coming from Makoto. Especially when Akira knows she and Akechi don’t exactly get along. Akechi seems to have quite a lot of petty disputes with both Akira and Makoto. Only... Makoto isn’t fond of frivolous fights and deems them annoying, while when Akira has disputes with Akechi he finds them fun and entertaining.
“Sorry, guys,” Akira murmurs. He does feel bad.
“ Sorry doesn’t cut it, mister!! ” Ann groans into the phone, voice almost a whine. “ I said I wanted all the details last time, remember?! Planning to propose is a big detail!! ”
“ I’ll admit, I wish you’d told me as well ..” Haru sounds dejected.
It all makes Akira’s stomach sour. He remains silent.
“ No matter!! I hope to help with anything I can! You can count on me, Aki-chan !!” It makes Akira feel slightly worse, for some reason. Haru lets out a giggle then, a sound like a clap carrying over the receiver. “ Ooo, you simply have to tell us the possible dates!! And color scheme!! Oh, please, please , let me help, Aki-chan !!”
“Of… course,” Akira mutters. He feels a bit helpless for the direction this is heading. He narrows his eyes, fiddling with his bangs. He still hasn’t heard anything from Akechi and he doesn’t know if or when he will. It’s safe to assume the detective is angry with him. Who wouldn’t be? “Uhm… but—”
“— No buts!! We’re helping, Akira !!” Ann’s voice sounds final. Akira doesn’t really know where to go with this. The entire charade has spiraled and it’s no one’s fault but his own. He has a fleeting thought to just be honest with his friends, but, with so many of them present, it’s extremely intimidating. Akira opts out.
The call ends and Akira’s heart is pounding ten times harder. He tries not to think about it.
---
Akira walks into Leblanc to find Akechi in his usual seat. He spots Akira and takes the chessboard to a booth, not even bothering to ask Akira (he probably knows Akira wouldn’t say no anyway). Rushing up the stairs, Akira sets his bag down and lets Morgana out to roam. He heads back down, meeting Akechi’s eyes.
“Lock up for me, will ya?” Sojiro asks. He’s already grabbing his hat at the door. “Don’t stay up too late and all that. Night, kid.”
He’s already out the door before Akira can even give a reply. Akira lets out a sigh and heads for the bar. “Coffee?” he asks Akechi. He gets a silent nod in reply. Akira is quick to start on the coffee, grabbing the beans he knows are Akechi’s favorite. His hands move swiftly, the motions practically muscle memory. Akira looks over at Akechi every now and then, spotting the brunette staring at him. Akira has to keep snapping his gaze back down, almost embarrassed. Not that he should be—Akechi is the one staring.
After making two cups, Akira heads for the booth, a handle in each hand. He forgoes the plates, figuring they weren’t exactly necessary. When he sets Akechi’s in front of him, he gets a thanks that sounds extremely grateful. Akira keeps his eyes on Akechi as the latter takes a sip. “Wonderful as always,” Akechi acknowledges and Akira’s heart lodges in his throat. Akechi’s rustic eyes snap up. “Now,” he smiles, all teeth, “we have much to discuss, don’t we?”
Akira resists Akechi’s eyes, instead looking at the chessboard. Akechi hasn’t set up the pieces, so Akira takes it upon himself. “About what?”
He holds back a smirk when Akechi gives an aggravated “tch” sound.
“Okay, yeah, maybe we have some… things to talk about.” Akira still doesn’t meet Akechi’s eyes. He places down the final pieces, basking in the silence for a while.
The silence must bug Akechi because he lets out a huff. He grabs Akira's wrist then. “Akira.”
Akira still doesn’t look up. “Akechi.” He can feel Akechi’s hand twitch and that makes him look up. Akechi’s expression is one of hurt. It confuses Akira because… hadn’t everything been fake? What is the point in calling one another by first name anymore? Akira will admit, he got carried away, but he gets it now. He’s ready to end the charade, even if it seems to hurt. Because it seems to hurt.
He got confused in the moment and… who could blame him? Wouldn't anyone?
“You do realize that the farce you pulled will—people expect—what did you think would happen, Kurusu ?” Akechi lets go of Akira’s wrist, but not quick enough that Akira doesn't notice the shaking. He seems practically seething now, teeth bared in an almost animalistic way. “The media isn’t easily swayed. A proposal isn’t—“ He lets out a huff, bringing his pointer and thumb to hold between his eyes. “I understand you’re rather carefree in a lot of things you do, Kurusu, however, I believe I made it clear this favor was a serious one.”
Akira feels his stomach sink. He swallows thickly, narrowing his eyes back to the chessboard. Only a few pawns need to be set up still.
“How could you—I don’t even know how to solve this, Kurusu!” Akechi cries out. Akira whips his head up at the exclaim, watching as Akechi hides his face in his hands. “The media will expect one thing and—and what are we to even do ? Calling off an engagement is social suicide.”
He didn’t… know that. To be fair, Akira doesn’t understand much about media presence. He doesn’t really need to. Letting out a nervous chuckle, Akira lifts and drops his shoulders. “Guess we have to get married then.”
Akechi shoots him a murderous look, hands lowered. “This isn’t the time for jokes, Kurusu.”
“Who said I was joking?” Akira grins for good measure. “Wouldn't that solve the issue?”
“I’m not gonna—“ Akechi lets out a guttural sound and lowers his head to his hands again. “This was only supposed to last a couple of weeks. Why—Why would you do this? We were so close ..”
So he really wanted to be rid of Akira that badly. Akira tries not to feel hurt, but the fight isn’t a fair one. He pokes at his own king, watching as it tilts this and that way. “Proposing is hardly a big deal—“
“—Of course it’s a big deal!—“
“—Just don’t bring it up and the media will stop talking about it. People lose interest in topics eventually.” Akira thinks at least. “Then when it’s brought up again, you can just say the relationship ended or something.”
Akechi seems to be taking a steadying breath. “I’ll be asked during talk shows, Kurusu. It’s not as simple as changing the subject. Show hosts are used to avoidance and will do whatever they can to get such information.”
Even as he listens, Akira keeps poking at the king. Sometimes it tilts all the way over, falling onto its side. Akira picks it back up every time but continues the action in hopes of a distraction from his mental turmoil.
“And if the proposal ends too early, people will grow suspicious. People ask, or simply assume,” Akechi explains. Akira can feel the brunette's gaze on him, so he forces himself to keep his eyes on the king piece. Akechi must get annoyed because he grabs Akira’s wrist and when Akira meets his eyes, the detective is glaring. “Will you quit that?!”
“What do you want me to say, Akechi?” Akira sighs but keeps his gaze locked on Akechi. “You were being a dick before and I got upset. I’m sorry, okay?”
Akechi opens and closes his mouth, dropping Akira’s wrist. “I was… How was I being a dick?!” he screeches. He’s breathing heavy, eyes wide with what Akira figures is rage. “Because you wanted to tell your little friends?! I told you you could!”
“But you were obviously against it,” Akira mumbles.
Akechi frowns. “I was, but with good reason . That doesn’t mean my answer was no. You pushed for my opinion on the matter and I supplied it.” He rubs at his eyes. “I apologize if it made me seem upset, but I… I don’t particularly understand why telling them was so important to you. It’s not as if I’m friends with many people.” He sighs, shoulders sagging. He seems tired. “I’m sorry I got so upset. In complete honesty, I—...I’m jealous. You have so many people who care for you and you, them. I suppose I let that jealousy cloud my judgment and make me snap at you.”
Woah. Akira hadn’t expected that.
He opens his mouth, then closes it. Opens it again. “It’s… okay.”
“No, it isn’t.” Akechi lifts his eyes to meet Akira’s. “And it wasn’t just that either. As we got… closer to the staged breakup, I.. uhm..” His cheeks tint pink. “Wow, this is harder to admit than I thought it would be.” Akechi clears his throat, narrowing his eyes in a nervous manner. “I became disappointed.”
“Disappointed?”
“By a lot of things,” Akechi supplies.
Akira blinks. What exactly does he mean? “What ‘things’?” he asks instead.
Clearing his throat again, Akechi situates himself, sitting just a bit taller. “The fact that it was ending… and the fact that it was all.. uhm… fake, I suppose.” He uses a finger to scratch at his cheek, eyes looking anywhere but at Akira.
“But…” Akira tries to contemplate Akechi’s statement, but it’s like trying to fit the square in the circle hole. It didn’t fit, it didn’t make sense. “But you seemed… angry.. and you didn’t even seem to.. to like me helping.” He seemed so unappreciative as if he didn’t even want Akira’s help.
“Your help was tremendous,” Akechi grumbles, face morphing into a scowl. “You’re amazing at anything you do and it’s infuriating. I honestly thought you wouldn’t be good at this, that I would have the upper hand and you’d be the one blushing mad.” He tsked, lowering his head so his bangs hid his eyes. “Instead… I still somehow lost. I somehow fell even more for you and—“ His head shoots up, eyes aflame. “It’s aggravating! You’re aggravating!”
“Fell…?” Akira lets Akechi’s words settle. Akechi continues on, sputtering about something or other, but it all doesn’t really register because… Akechi fell for him? As in, Akechi liked him before all of this. Akira meets Akechi’s frantic eyes. “You like me?”
Akechi’s entire face is beet red. It’s almost cute (it’s really really cute). “N-No! I do not !!”
Akira’s already grinning. “You do . You like me!” He leans across the table and Akechi leans further back into the booth seat.
“I don’t!!”
“And we’re engaged!!”
The brunette's mouth clamps shut at that. His eyes are blown wide, cheeks an impressive crimson. After a while, he stutters, “I… suppose we are.”
Akira lets out a snicker, reaching a hand across the table, avoiding the chessboard. He grabs Goro’s, uncurling it from the fist it was in prior and gently locking their fingers together.
Goro’s eyes don’t leave their joined hands.
An idea strikes him for a moment. Akira unfurls their hands but still keeps Goro’s in his own. “Can I take your glove off?” he asks, voice gentle. He gets a nod. Using his other hand to help, Akira takes Goro’s glove off ever-so-slowly. It’s easy to spot the ring from the other night and the sight still manages to make Akira’s heart beat faster. “You’re wearing it..”
“Of course I’m wearing it,” Goro answers. He goes to pull his hand away, but Akira doesn’t let him and instead laces their fingers back together. Goro stares. “...You don’t find it weird?”
“Nah.” Akira smirks, leaning forward to kiss at Goro’s knuckles. “I think it’s romantic, actually.” He shoots Goro a wink. “Not that we should get married right away, but maybe we can take things easy? Wait a while, go on a few dates..”
Goro nods mutely.
Akira hums in contemplation before an idea strikes him. “A promise ring.”
“Huh?” Goro blinks at him in confusion. A moment later, recognition crosses his features. “You… want this to be a promise ring?”
He nods. “A promise to stop being dumbasses, yeah.” Akira grins and Goro snorts. “I’m sorry I got so mad and ruined your plans..”
Goro smiles and it’s softer than a lot of the smiles Akira has seen from him. “I’m sorry, as well. I suppose I wasn’t being the kindest… especially after asking specifically for your help.” He narrows his eyes, using his free hand to shove a piece of hair behind his ear. “I’m… glad though—that you ruined my original plans.” His cheeks redden. “I don’t think I would have ever gotten the confidence to confess otherwise.”
“So you do like me!”
“That much is obvious!” Goro quips, rolling his eyes in a playful manner.
He lets out a laugh, smiling back at Goro just as softly. “Good.” Akira stands, moving to sit beside Goro in the booth. Luckily, Goro makes space. It takes some adjusting of their hands, but soon Akira is sitting with his head on Goro’s shoulder. “I like you too,” he whispers as if it’s some big secret. Maybe it is. “I had to keep reminding myself a lot of those dates were fake.”
“I’m the same. Most times, when I would bring it up, it was me reminding myself.” Goro sighs and lays his head atop Akira’s. “Perhaps this should be our first real date?”
Akira snorts. It sounds a bit goofy and cliche when put like that. “Maybe, yeah.”
---
“Wait, so you guys aren’t actually engaged?”
Akira nods, laughing a bit. Goro seems to be holding back laughter from beside him. It all seems pretty funny after everything, Akira just hopes Ann will find it as funny as they do. “Nope. It’s just gonna be a promise ring.”
Ann’s shoulders slouch and she stares at them with a keen eye. “Hmmm…”
Keeping from moving, Akira tries to keep his expression the same blank slate as usual. “If you’re to be upset with anyone, let it be me,” Goro addresses. He takes a step forward, jostling his and Akira’s joined hands. “I was the one who made him lie to you, and for that, I apologize.”
“Huh?” Ann blinks at him, then looks at Akira. “Why would I be mad? Honestly, it was more upsetting when I thought Akira was hiding an eight-month relationship from me. This is just hilarious!” She grins. “Imagine when people ask how you two got together? So funny!!”
She has a point. Akira lets out another laugh and Goro looks back at him in bewilderment. “That would be pretty funny,” Akira supplies.
Goro’s lip quirks as he nods in agreement. “I suppose so.”
“Speaking of telling people! You should tell Haru and Mako. Poor Haru has already started looking at flowers she thinks you’ll like.” Ann sighs, running a hand through her ponytail. “She keeps dragging Mako around, too.”
“Yeah, I should probably tell them soon..” Akira narrows his eyes. Telling Ann is one thing, but telling Haru, who seems the most excited for him… well, it’s worrisome.
---
“We hear you got engaged,” one of the hosts ponders to Goro. Akira is watching from Leblanc, carefully making a coffee for one of the customers.
Goro pauses at the question. Then he smiles, shakes his head, and laughs like a ringing of bells. “Ah, no. That was actually…” Akira thinks his cheeks would be crimson if it weren’t for his foundation. “You see, it’s a promise ring.” He laughs, but this one is more nervous than the one prior.
The host's eyes widen. “Oh, I see!!”
“How romantic!!” the other host adds.
Akira grins and Sojiro smacks his arm playfully. “Focus on the coffee, why dontcha?”
“Right, sorry.” Akira looks back down at the siphon, but his grin is still firmly in place.
He can still hear Goro from the screen. “Yes, I..”
“Then do you think either of you will pop the question anytime soon?” the second host’s voice asks. Akira could laugh, but he doesn’t want Sojiro getting mad at him.
“I…” Goro clears his throat. “Unsure of that.” He gives another nervous laugh.
“Awe, come on, Akechi-kun!! You can tell us!!”
“Let’s not tempt him,” the other host scolds. “What if they’re watching?” A pause. “Akechi-kun, do you have anything to say for your significant other?”
“Oh, uhm..” Goro falls silent. Akira peeks at the screen, watching Goro’s flustered expression. He seems completely at a loss for words.
The second host grins. “My, I don’t think we’ve ever seen Akechi-kun this flustered!!”
Goro’s eyes drift to the camera and he sits up a bit straighter. “Well… I suppose if they were watching I would say..” He narrows his eyes but quickly fixes it after a second. Akira watches the screen carefully. The bell on Leblanc’s door sounds. Akira turns, a smile taking his face in seconds. “I miss you,” the screen says.
Goro says, “I missed you.”
Safe to say, Sojiro has to take over making the coffee so Akira can wrap his arms around Goro.
---
A year later, Goro brings Akira to the restaurant from before. He says something about them making it a tradition and Akira isn’t one to take away from Goro’s romantic fantasies. When they arrive, Goro somehow even manages to get them the same seating arrangement.
The tradition starts like that, at least. The next year they go, then the next.
Akira gets a bit used to it, finding it intriguing how Goro manages to make the event bring up happy past memories, yet still, be new and exciting. They get a new item from the menu every time, too. Akira jokes about them trying every item and Goro laughs in agreement.
The next time they go, Goro seems nervous. Akira has learned Goro’s mannerisms over the years and it’s easy to tell. He won’t meet Akira’s eye and when Akira asks what he thinks he’s going to order, Goro says something he’s gotten before.
“Are you okay?” Akira asks, tilting his head. He wonders if it’s about work, or maybe something of the sort. It seems highly possible with how busy Goro has been lately.
Instead, Goro nods raggedly. “Yes, I am completely fine.” He is not completely fine.
Akira doesn’t push it, but still orders for Goro (something he knows Goro hasn’t tried but might like). Then he places a hand out for Goro to take. When Goro does, his hands feel almost shaky. Akira silently moves his thumb back and forth across Goro’s palm.
“I’m okay,” Goro chastises.
Akira grins. “I know.”
“I actually… I need to, uhm…” Goro lets out a breath. “There’s something I need to ask you.”
Blinking, Akira nods. He feels a bit worried. There’s a fleeting thought that only Goro would be as dramatic as to break up with him at the same establishment that brought upon their relationship. “What’s up? Is something wron—”
Goro is on one knee at an alarmingly fast speed, words tumbling out just as fast, “Will you marry me?” His face is crimson, making his freckles stand out all the more. Akira always comments on how he wished Goro stopped wearing makeup because he loves seeing them.
There’s a long moment of shock where Goro begins to get fidgety, while Akira stares at the other in bafflement. Somehow this went in an entirely different direction than he’d predicted, but… a happy direction. Happiness coils around in his stomach, nearly caging him whole. “Wait, really?” He can’t even keep the elation from his tone.
“No, this is all some elaborate joke.” Goro gives him an agitated look, but Akira can see how nervous he seems. Did Goro really think Akira could ever say no?
But first…
“Hmmm, what was it you told me all that time ago?” Akira reflects. He smirks. “This wasn’t the plan or something?”
Goro frowns, narrowing his eyes.
“Of course, honey.” Akira laughs, nearly holding back tears. He wraps his arms around Goro, squeezing the other with all his might. “You’re a bigger sap than I thought. Love you.”
“Love you, too..” Goro’s voice sounds choked.
When they leave the restaurant hand in hand, Akira can’t hold back a smile when he sees Goro’s ring on his gloveless hand. Their rings match, funny enough. Only.. one is a new promise, the other an old.