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Chapter Text

Haru and Daisuke’s relationship started off rocky, in Haru’s opinion. Haru was a hockey player for his college team while Daisuke was a figure skater known in the college rink as the Ice Prince. The two only knew about the other in mentioning for a while, until one afternoon, Haru was running out of the rink. Practice had run long and he was going to be late for a test. He never saw Daisuke making his way into the building and ran right into the figure skater. The coffee Daisuke had been holding covered the both of them.

Haru had cursed but he still apologized. Daisuke had sort of glared at the hockey player as he wiped what he could off what Haru now saw was an expensive looking jacket.

“Shit, I’m sorry. I’ll pay for the dry cleaning,” Daisuke looked Haru up and down.

“You probably couldn’t afford it,” Haru bristled at that.

“Hey!” Daisuke walked past Haru.

“Weren’t you running for a reason?” Haru glanced at his watch and cursed again. Without saying anything else, he was out of the building and headed for his class. Daisuke had watched the hockey player run off before he made his way towards the locker rooms.

Later that day, once his classes were done, Haru was talking to his friends about his encounter and they had come to the conclusion that Haru had finally met the rink’s Ice Prince. His junior, a freshman, Ryou Hoshino, had had an almost similar interaction with the figure skater as well, earlier in the semester. But none of his teammates could actually remember the skater’s name.

So Haru went to one of his other friends, Mahoro Saeki, who was also a figure skater. Luckily, she knew exactly who Haru was talking about.

“Oh! That’s probably Daisuke. He told me he had a run-in with one of the hockey players this morning,” Haru frowned.

“He was kind of an ass,” Mahoro hummed at that, eating some of her dinner.

“Dai-chan isn’t the greatest at showing his emotions. He told me he hadn’t cared about the accident that happened with you,” For some reason, that annoyed Haru even more.

“Whatever. I’ll just avoid him from now on,”

XXXX

From then on, it was like Haru had jinxed himself, because he kept seeing Daisuke all over the campus and in the rink. Though annoying, Haru did his best to ignore the figure skater and it seemed like Daisuke just ignored everyone around him. None of the rest of his teammates had an encounter like Haru’s again.

But as time went by, Haru realized something. He’d never seen Daisuke with anyone. Haru knew the skater was somewhat friends with Mahoro and was the cousin of Suzue Kambe who played on the women’s hockey team. But Mahoro had said they both never got to spend much time with him.

Haru also noticed that as the season continued, Daisuke looked exhausted with dark marks under his eyes. Mahoro told Haru that hers and Daisuke’s competition season was about to start. Mahoro was worried about her friend, but she wasn’t sure what to do. Haru wasn’t quite sure what to tell her, there were times where you couldn’t help someone you cared about.

XXXX

One night, Haru couldn’t sleep. It was close to midterms and they always messed with Haru’s nerves. He grabbed his gear bag and made his way to the rink. He knew the custodian and the old man didn’t mind letting any of the skaters in after hours. Haru thought maybe just skating on the ice would clear his head some.

The custodian let him in, but mentioned that someone else was on the ice; that Haru should make sure to share it. Haru shrugged the older man off and made his way to the ice. He opened the door and was greeted with music. The song sounded sad and it made Haru wonder who would be skating to it.

The answer was apparently Daisuke Kambe.

Haru couldn’t help but watch the figure skater dance across the ice. Though he was friends with Mahoro, he actually had never seen her perform. Daisuke almost looked like he was flying across the ice as he moved to the music. Haru could hardly look away. He stood at the edge of the ice and just watched.

Daisuke performed a jump that Haru had never seen before and never thought possible on ice. Once his feet were on the ice again, the figure skater turned as if to continue his routine, but he caught sight of Haru and halted. As Daisuke panted slightly, he pulled a tiny remote from his pants and paused the music. Haru now felt awkward for being caught watching. He looked away from Daisuke and adjusted his gear bag on his shoulder.

“Sorry,” Haru said with a cough. Daisuke hadn’t said anything, choosing instead to skate over to a water bottle. He took a sip and checked the phone that was lying next to it.

“Isn’t it a bit late for the ace of our school’s hockey team to be out and about?” Haru rubbed awkwardly at his nape. He had gotten the new nickname, Ace, after helping his team win most of the games last season. Truthfully he preferred the nickname he had gotten as a freshman, Goldie. The captain at the time thought the color of his eyes were cool and gave him the name.

“Can’t sleep. Being on the ice helps clear my mind,” Daisuke hummed at Haru’s response. Haru put his gear bag down and sat down on the bench next to it. He watched the figure skate drink some more.

“You probably understand. Seeing as you’re here in the middle of the night as well,” Daisuke raised an eyebrow at him.

“Do you mind sharing the ice?” Daisuke stared at Haru for a few moments, before he turned away and started to skate away.

“As long as you don’t mind the music,”

XXXX

The song Daisuke had been playing when Haru came in didn’t come back on. Instead, it started to be a playlist of instrumental music; it was kinda relaxing. The hockey player slowly skated on the half of the ice Daisuke wasn’t using. He watched the other skater perform various jumps and spins. Haru made a note to ask Mahoro what they were called.

Haru put his hand in his jacket pockets and focused on the music to clear his mind. The mix of the sound of his and Daisuke’s skates on the ice and the songs were like a balm to his anxious mind.

XXXX

After that first night, Haru kept coming back. He wasn’t sure why but skating with Daisuke had helped. With midterms looming over him, the hockey player’s anxiety and insomnia were messing with him. Daisuke didn’t seem to mind or at least he didn’t say anything. They never really talked, just coexisted on the ice together. Haru would really only stay for maybe an hour or two tops. Daisuke always stayed after him though. The fourth time it happened, Haru came in with coffee and left a cup next to Daisuke’s phone, before going to put on his own skates. He smiled to himself as he skated and saw Daisuke actually drinking the coffee.

Some nights, Haru didn’t skate; he sat on the benches studying his notes. He caught Daisuke glancing at him every once in a while. But after a little bit, Daisuke got used to using all of the ice.

Haru, like many other college students, had the ability to fall asleep anywhere if he was tired enough. With midterms, it wasn’t uncommon to find others napping around campus; it was worse during finals. Haru had fallen asleep in the library, the cafeteria, and in the stands after practice. He was lucky his captain was nice enough to wake him; some of his teammates were just going to leave him there as a prank, His ice sessions with Daisuke weren’t spared.

Haru was reading his notes for psychology one moment, and the next moment, he was being woken by nudging on his shoulder. He groaned and rubbed at his eyes, before he looked up. Daisuke was off the ice, now dressed in his jacket and his own gear bag on his shoulder. Behind the figure skater, Haru could see the old custodian working the zamboni across the ice. Haru let out another groan and looked at his watch. 3:30AM glared back up at him. He sat up from where he had been leaning and put his notebook, that had been laying on his chest, away. Haru checked around to see if he dropped anything as he pulled his backpack on. Daisuke stayed standing right next to him, and watched as Haru stood up.

“Thanks for waking me,” Daisuke hummed in response and started walking for the door. Haru quickly caught up to him.

“How have midterms been going for you?” Haru didn’t like awkward silences. He saw Daisuke glance at him for a moment.

“They went fine,”

“You’re already finished?” Haru still had two classes left. Daisuke nodded some.

“I have a shorter schedule in fall term so I can practice and go to competitions,”

“Oh,” Haru forgot about the fact that Mahoro did the same. Speaking of which, she had an event coming up soon.

“Mahoro has a competition soon. Her first one, she said, is here in America. Where’s yours?” They were at the exit doors now. Daisuke turned to fully look at Haru. Haru saw that the figure skater’s eyes weren’t entirely blue, but more a greyer blue. He was also a couple inches shorter than Haru, and the hockey player thought he could smell a lingering scent of smoke coming from Daisuke.

“Also in America. But she goes to China for her next, while I go to France,”

“Oh cool. Must be nice to be able to go around the world. Is there a special term to say or can I just wish you good luck?” Haru gave Daisuke a tired smile. The figure skater’s eyes had widened some, before he narrowed them.

“Good luck is fine,” Daisuke was still staring at Haru.

“What?”

“I was under the impression you didn’t like me,” Haru huffed out a laugh. It was true, he hadn’t liked Daisuke in the beginning because of his standoffish nature. But these past couple nights of just coexisting on the ice, Haru thought that maybe Daisuke wasn’t that bad. He heard stories from Mahoro that helped show that Daisuke truly was just an awkward guy and emotion was a bit hard for him to show unless you truly knew him or if he was skating. Haru shrugged his shoulders.

“Guess you aren’t so bad if you don’t mind sharing the ice when you’re supposed to be getting ready for a competition,” Daisuke hummed at that and adjusted his hold on something in his hands. Haru realized the younger skater still had the coffee cup Haru had put down earlier.

“Is the coffee okay?” Daisuke looked down at the disposable cup. He didn’t make an attempt to drink it; Haru guessed it was probably cold by now.

“Could be sweeter,” Haru nodded at that. He hadn’t been quite sure how the figure skater took his coffee so Haru only made it how he himself liked it.

“I can do sweeter,”

XXXX

With midterms over with, Haru didn’t go to his midnight sessions with Daisuke as much. He had more games coming up so his captain has them in for more practice time. But Haru still dropped off coffee for the younger man every couple days.

Now when Haru saw Daisuke around campus, he would wave, much to the surprise of his teammates and joy to Mahoro. Daisuke didn’t really wave back, but he did acknowledge Haru. Haru would ignore his teammates trying to be nosy and question how he got to know their resident ‘Ice Prince’. Mahoro was just happy that Daisuke had another friend. Though Haru wasn’t completely sure they could be considered friends just yet.

One night, after a challenging game, Haru found himself wandering the campus. The game had been tense and Haru wound up being the one to push his team forward to score goals. He could hear his last name being chanted by the crowd, cheering him on. They had won the game and Haru had been tackled by his teammates on the ice. He was glad they won the game, but ultimately he just felt exhausted. It got worse when they got to the locker room.

Haru had just gotten out of the shower when he noticed his captain, Jonathan Orwell, and the vice captain, Elijah Oliver, talking to each other. It wasn’t very loud but it was enough for Haru to hear something. They were thinking of making Haru captain after the end of the season. Haru should have been elated, but he only felt his blood run cold.

This just felt like too much pressure on him and Haru could feel himself getting overwhelmed by it. He skipped the after game party and hid away in his dorm. Haru found he couldn’t fall asleep after that. So he put his jacket on and wandered the campus. Haru wound up in front of the rink once more, but he couldn’t bring himself to go inside.

There was a brick stage that the English department liked to use for poetry jams just in the grass in front of the rink. Haru sat down on it and a couple minutes later, he leaned back to lay down. He moved his legs to be more comfortable before he looked up at the stars.

Haru loved the stars; they were something of a comfort to him because of something his mother had said. His hometown was really only an hour away, but Haru could only go home during breaks. He didn’t have a car so he couldn’t visit on his own. He got homesick often. His family did try to go to some of his games, but he understood that it wasn’t always possible. Haru’s mother, Sakura, and his eldest sister, Hana, were nurses. Ume, another older sister, was a chef and Mio, the closest one to Haru’s age, was a writer and was staying with their grandmother, Yukiko, after she had had a health scare.

When Haru had talked to his mother about being homesick and missing his family, Sakura told her son to go look out the window at the night sky.

“Do you see all those stars, Haru?”

“Yeah,”

“Well, I see them too. So no matter how far away you are, we are under the same sky, and we are never really that far away,” Haru had been comforted by her saying this. So as he laid on the stage and stared at the stars, he felt some of his anxiety fade away. He wasn’t sure how he felt about potentially becoming the next captain though.

“Haru?” Haru sat up quickly at the sound of his name and found Daisuke standing there. Haru gave him a tired smile.

“Hey,” Daisuke walked forward and leaned against the stage.

“I heard our team won thanks to your quick thinking. So congratulations,” Haru merely hummed in response. Daisuke turned his head to glance at Haru.

“Shouldn’t you be celebrating with your team?” Haru shrugged his shoulders. He just didn’t have it in him to go be with his team as they partied at the team’s dorm house. At the corner of his eye, Haru saw Daisuke lift himself up to sit on the stage with the hockey player.

“Do you ever feel like there’s too many people relying on you and you’re terrified you’re going to mess up and let them down?” Daisuke glanced at Haru, before he took off his gear bag and placed it next to him.

“Yes,” Haru looked over, slightly surprised by the answer. Daisuke was looking at his bag.

“How do you deal with it?” Daisuke looked back up and thought to himself for a moment before he answered.

“I was once told that the people who are forcing that pressure on you don’t matter and the people that stand next to you, no matter what, won’t really mind about the outcome,” That was oddly comforting. Haru smiled at Daisuke before he looked back up at the night sky. He nudged his shoulder against Daisuke’s.

“Thanks,” Haru tilted his head some to see a small smile on Daisuke’s face.

XXXX

Haru was leaving the locker room after practice one morning when he heard a slightly raised voice. He recognized it to be one of his teammates, Cary Chandler. He was another forward, like Haru, but he was mostly on the bench as a reserve. Haru turned down the hallway to find Chandler and three other teammates cornering Daisuke against a wall. Daisuke looked annoyed, but the hand holding his gear bag was gripping it too tightly with a slight tremor.

Haru looked at the other three hockey players; Darryl Bridges, Keith Ellis, and Bryant Mitchell, all forwards as well but reserves like Chandler. They’ve all been on the team as long as Haru, but may have only played a handful of games. They were hotheads that preferred to fight instead of actually playing, despite the penalties. Chandler was standing a little too close to Daisuke, almost in his face.

“You think you’re so perfect and hog up the ice when someone else needs it. Maybe the Ice Prince needs to learn a lesson?” Something inside Haru burned with anger and he walked forward.

“Hey! Just what in the hell do you think you are doing?” Chandler’s eyes went wide and he took a step back, but a sleazy smile stretched across his face when he saw it was Haru. It only grossed the golden eyed hockey player out.

“Hey there, Ace. We’re just having a chat with our resident Ice Prince,”

“Sure you were. Because I’m pretty sure I just heard you threaten him,” The reserves took a step back as Haru towered slightly over them and began to put himself between them and Daisuke. Chandler’s expression turned to annoyance.

“So what? He hogs up ice time and acts like he’s better than all of us,”

“No asshole, he reserves ice time just like everyone else does. And considering he skates a hell of a lot better than you, he doesn’t need to act,”

“So what? He’s just a stupid figure skater, why does he need that much ice time?”

“Oh really. You want me to call the captain and have him hear you call figure skaters stupid or should I remind you who his little sister is?” Hannah Orwell was the captain’s little sister. He loved to talk about her to anyone that would listen. She has won gold and silver medals in several local competitions and the Orwells were working on getting her a better coach so Hannah could try for national ones. In turn, Captain Orwell was protective over the figure skaters of the college and told all of the hockey players to respect reserved ice times.

“I should call him anyway, given the fact that you still threatened someone,” Haru pulled his phone out of his jacket pocket. The reserves, save for Chandler, began to flee down the hall. Chandler glared at Haru.

“This isn’t over, Katou,” With that, Chandler followed after his goon squad. Haru released a breath, it had been a while since his temper had run that hot. He turned back to Daisuke, who was staring at the hockey player with wide eyes and raised eyebrows.

“You good?” Daisuke nodded his head. Haru nodded his head towards the hallway that lead to the ice.

“Come on, you have to practice and I got to talk to my captain,” Haru started down the hallway with Daisuke close behind. They made to the main rink in a couple of minutes. Haru saw the day custodian running the zamboni and his captain talking to their coach by their usual bench area. Daisuke waved Haru off so he could get ready and Haru made his way over.

Jonathan Orwell, also known as Big Brother by the team, was made captain after the end of the season last year. He earned the nickname because he earnestly treating all his team like his younger siblings even before he made captain. The name was also because of his size, he was much taller and way wider than Haru, which made him an excellent goalie. Coach Katsuhiro Takei was from Haru’s hometown and recruited Haru after seeing a couple of his high school games. They both looked over when Haru got closer. Orwell waved him over.

“Hey Goldie, what’s up?” Orwell said with a cheery smile. Haru was glad to hear his favorite nickname.

“So I just caught Chandler, Bridges, Ellis and Mitchell cornering Daisuke outside the locker room. Chandler was threatening him over ice time,” The smile on Orwell’s face dropped and he glanced at the figure skater.

“He’s okay?” Haru nodded.

“I stepped in before anything could happen,” Orwell looked relieved at that and they both looked at their coach, who had a deep frown on his face.

“This is the first complaint on Chandler and Mitchell. I can only suspend them for a couple games. Bridges and Ellis, however, this would be the third and final time. I will have to talk to Coach Nakamura, but it is more than likely they cannot be on the team anymore,” Orwell nodded at this. Haru was slightly annoyed but he understood the three strike system the coaches had in place. Coach Takei pulled out his phone and began to walk towards the locker rooms.

“I’ll see you both in practice tomorrow,” Orwell looked like he was about to leave as well, but decided last minute to walk over to Daisuke. The figure skater looked up from his phone at the approaching hockey players.

“Hey Kambe, you good?” Daisuke gave Orwell a nod. The figure skater glanced at Haru.

“Is something going to happen with the ones that accosted me in the hallway?” Haru and his captain nodded.

“Two are being suspended for a little bit since it was their first offense. The other two are off the team, their last offense,” Daisuke nodded at this, before he turned to pull his skates out of his bag.

“You have Skate America in a couple days. When do you leave?” Daisuke paused in taking off his regular shoes.

“Tomorrow afternoon. The first day of the event is the day after,” Orwell grinned.

“Well, Hannah told me to wish you and Saeki good luck. She says she’ll be watching,” Daisuke smiled some at that.

“Thank you,” With that, Orwell left. He patted Haru on the shoulder before he made his way towards the locker room. Haru watched Daisuke put his skates on and then stand to put his bluetooth speaker on the wall. The figure skater looked over at him.

“I’m fine now. My coach will be here soon, you no longer have to be a guard dog,” Haru blinked in surprise. He didn’t understand why he was being protective over Daisuke. He didn’t really want to leave the skater, but Daisuke was pretty much asking him to.

“Okay. Good luck on your competition. I’ll ask around to see if someone can stream it so I can watch. I don’t think I’ve seen any of your routines, just you practicing. Bet they’re awesome,” Daisuke stared at Haru for a moment, as the hockey player smiled at him. Haru felt like he was imagining the light blush across Daisuke’s face.

“Thank you. I hope it’s to your liking,” Haru waved goodbye and made for the exit. He did not notice Daisuke watching him as he left.

XXXX

Haru made it to practice early in the morning. He smirked at the sight of Chandler and Mitchell being forced to sit on the sidelines, and the other two nowhere in sight. Coach Nakamura was making them write essays while Coach Takei would only let them do warm-up exercises but nothing else. When Chandler saw Haru, he glared and gripped his pencil so hard he broke it.

Once practice was over, Coach Takei told the team that there would be no practice for the next couple of days, giving them a long weekend. Both coaches would be away to scout a couple of games for new players next year. The team should take these couple of days to relax. Practice would start back up on Monday and they had their next game on Wednesday.

Haru was glad for the break. He had some homework he wanted to finish and it would give him time to watch both Mahoro and Daisuke perform. He did a little research after talking to Daisuke and found a website that would hopefully stream the entire competition.

Haru was making his way back to his dorm when he heard someone call out his name. He turned to find Mahoro running over to him. An older woman with wine colored hair was walking just behind her. Haru recognized her as Mahoro’s coach, Chie Motoyama.

“Hey Mahoro. Aren’t you supposed to be leaving soon?” Mahoro smiled at Haru.

“That’s the thing. I want to ask you something,” Haru was slightly confused but shrugged it off.

“What’s up?”

“How would you like to go to Skate America with me?”

XXXX

According to Mahoro, her choreographer was sick and she would normally help Mahoro with her hair during competitions. That’s where Haru came in; he was actually well known for helping others in the rink when they had a hair problem. He originally learned to help his sisters out and his skills drifted over to his high school and college life. The two guys on the mens’ hockey team that had long hair would ask him to braid it back for them, when they had learned this. Once his skills were found out, some of the women’s hockey team would ask him for help. A couple of the other figure skaters had asked as well.

Haru was okay with helping Mahoro out but he didn’t really have the money for a hotel room or even a ticket for the event. That was when Coach Motoyama stepped in. If Haru agreed to help Mahoro for the competition, he could have the room that had been reserved for the choreographer. It was also fairly easy to get him a guest pass if they claimed he was part of Mahoro’s team. Haru huffed out a laugh and smiled at Mahoro.

“You really thought everything out. You’re lucky I don’t have practice this weekend, so okay. I’ll go with you. Let me go pack a bag real quick,” Mahoro cheered and pulled Haru into a hug, thanking him. Coach Motoyama gave him a relieved smile as well.

XXXX

As soon as Haru was packed, Mahoro and her coach ushered him into a car and they were on their way. The figure skater sat in the back with him so they could talk. It was going to be at least three hours until they got to the city the event was taking place.

Mahoro talked to him about what her routines were going to be. She decided to do a couple of songs from her favorite films. Haru tried to ask about some of her competitors, but Mahoro really only knew one of them personally, a Yoko Hikasa. The others she had only heard about in passing or only ever seen them perform, but not talked to them. Mahoro also didn’t know any of the male figure skaters besides Daisuke.

Mahoro promised to take Haru over to the arena on the days Daisuke was performing. Haru blushed slightly after he revealed he was looking forward to seeing the male figure skater skate. Mahoro had given him a gentle smile and patted his arm. He quickly changed the subject and asked the pink haired girl how she wanted her hair to look for her performances.

The two talked about whatever came to mind during the rest of the car trip. Every once in a while, Haru would glance at Coach Motoyama and found her smiling at the two fondly in the rear view mirror. The trio reached the hotel in later afternoon and true enough, Haru had a room to himself. Mahoro mentioned about her and her coach settling in and then going over to check in at the arena to get their passes. Haru opted to stay in his room to get some work done since he probably wouldn’t have much time during the weekend.

An hour or so later, Mahoro was knocking on his door with some dinner for the both of them. Haru pushed away his laptop to make some room on the table. Mahoro smiled when she saw that he was looking up some hairstyles for her.

“So tomorrow’s your first day, right?” Mahoro looked at Haru in confusion and shook her head.

“I start the day after. Where did you hear that?”

“Daisuke said that was when he was going,” Mahoro giggled.

“Oh! That makes sense. No, he starts with the men’s tomorrow, women’s is the day after. I’ll take you over to the arena tomorrow after the pairs finish up. Where do you want to be, in the stands or with the skaters?” Haru looked away from his food at Mahoro.

“What’s easier for you?” Mahoro chewed on her food for a couple moments as she thought.

“With the other skaters. It’s less crowded that way and we can talk to Daisuke after he’s done. I bet he’ll be super surprised to see you,” She smiled at Haru as if she knew something he didn’t. He took that moment to ball up a napkin and throw it at her, making her laugh again. Haru didn’t want to say aloud again that he was really looking forward to seeing Daisuke perform in person.

XXXX

Mahoro came knocking on Haru’s door in the morning so they could go eat breakfast. His figure skating friend had covered her pink hair with a cap and wore an oversized hoodie and fake glasses. When she saw Haru’s questioning look, Mahoro only murmured something about reporters. Haru shrugged it off, pulling on his own jacket and grabbing his room key, before he let her drag him out of the room.

Haru listened to Mahoro chat happily as she led them to a nearby cafe. Apparently her favorite figure skating pair was performing today and she couldn’t wait to see them. Haru got some coffee and a bagel, before leading his excited friend with her own food over to a table. He was content just letting Mahoro speak as they ate, but they both paused when they heard someone say their names.

“Mahoro? Haru?” They looked over to see Suzue Kambe holding a cup of coffee. She smiled at them when she realized she was right about who they were, and walked over to them.

Haru liked Suzue; she was a very sweet person, but could be brutal when she played on the ice, He first met her the year before, when both teams had a joint practice. Suzue had slammed Haru into the boards so hard he saw stars. Seconds later after the play was over, she had smiled sweetly and helped Haru stand back up. He got a crush on her after that, but it faded. Haru liked to think he was good friends with Suzue now.

Mahoro scooted over so Suzue could sit next to her, a shy smile and a light blush now on her face. Haru quirked an eyebrow at that, but stayed silent. The two girls chatted to themselves for a couple minutes, letting Haru finish his breakfast.

“Does Daisuke know you’re here, Haru?” Haru looked up to find them both staring at him. He shook his head.

“This was a last minute thing. Mahoro needed help and I didn’t mind helping her,” Suzue smiled again at that. Mahoro tapped her on the shoulder and whispered something into the hockey player’s ear. Suzue grinned and nodded at her once she was done, before she turned back to Haru.

“Well, I’m sure he’s going to be happy to hear about your being here. Daisuke told me that the two have been spending times together. I’m glad,” Haru felt himself blush at the thought of Daisuke talking about him. He was oddly happy about it, but he didn’t take the time to think it over.

XXXX

Haru, Mahoro and Suzue talked for a little bit more, before Suzue had to leave. Mahoro took Haru back to the hotel so they could watch the pairs’ short programs. Haru didn’t know any of the technical jargon as Mahoro tried to explain, but they were amazing to watch nevertheless. Mahoro nearly cheered his ear off when her favorite pair went onto the ice.

They were the last to perform and Mahoro told him it’ll be at least another hour before they needed to head over. She left to go to her room and get ready. Haru took a quick shower and got dressed in a warm shirt and his pink varsity jacket. He worked on one of his assignments until Mahoro knocked on his door. She was dressed in a pink cardigan, a white shirt and a black skirt and leggings. Mahoro handed over the pass that would allow Haru into the skaters’ area and wore one herself.

The arena was only a fifteen minute walk from their hotel. Mahoro bypassed the regular entrance, taking Haru to a side one instead. There was fewer people in the hallway they came into and they were barely glanced at. Haru saw a couple of skaters warming up; one looked to be going through some portions of his routine. They didn’t see Daisuke though.

“Dai-chan doesn’t like to be disturbed before he needs to be on the ice. We’ll see him soon enough,” Mahoro said with a smile. She led Haru to where many others were watching by the ice. She pointed to an area she called the kiss and cry that was near them. After Daisuke was finished in that area, they could go over to him.

Soon enough, the event was announced to be about to begin. The skaters were brought out and Haru could see Daisuke in the lineup. He had his hair slicked back like usual. He wore a black sports jacket with purple lining on his sides and black pants, but showed no clue to what the rest of his costume was. The lineup was announced, showing that Daisuke would be going 4th. All of the skaters, save for the first to go, were taken back to their area.

The first three skaters were pretty cool. One had his music as a classic rock song and was even dressed like one of its singers. Another had the James Bond theme and looked the part, while the other had a classical instrumental song that Haru vaguely recognized. Their scores were listed above the ice on a screen; the James Bond guy was in first so far. Then Daisuke walked out.

Beside him was a chubby man with a nice smile on his face. Daisuke handed over his skate guards to him and got onto the ice. The two talked for a moment, before the older man patted Daisuke on the shoulder and held out his other hand. Daisuke unzipped his jack and handed it over. Underneath it, the figure skater wore a dark lilac button-up shirt with his sleeves rolled up to his elbows, a black vest and a black and white striped tie.

Daisuke skated out to the middle of the ice as the announcer said his name. He rolled his neck and shook out his arms, before he got into his starting position, looking up to the sky with a hand on a cocked hip. Then the song began to play.

It started out slow as Daisuke moved across the ice, but in sync with the first beat drop, he performed a jump that had the crowd roaring. A camera zoomed in on Daisuke’s face after it and showed that he had a smirk on his face. Haru felt himself blush and go warm. That was kind of...hot.

Haru didn’t have much time to think about that as he went back to watching the rest of Daisuke’s routine. Haru could only recognize a couple of jumps and spins Mahoro had tried to explain to him. All too quickly, the song ended with Daisuke posing as if he were about to put a crown on his head with another smirk on his face. He let go of his pose when his name was announced again over a cheering crowd and skated back towards the joyous looking man. He was given back his jacket and skate guards, before the two were ushered over to the kiss and cry.

“He was really good, wasn’t he?” Haru looked away from Daisuke to find Mahoro smiling up at him. He blushed and nodded. Daisuke had been amazing. The screen above them showed Daisuke sitting next to the chubby man. An elderly woman wa sitting on the other side with Suzue standing right behind her.

“Who are those people?” Haru gestured to the screen. Mahoro glanced for a second.

“Oh, that’s Dai-chan’s coach, Yukihiro Kiyomizu and his grandmother, Madame Kikuko Kambe,” Coach Kiyomizu and Madame Kikuko looked like complete opposites; the man grinning and happy whispering something to Daisuke while the grandmother had a stern expression and hadn’t looked away from the scoreboard. Suzue had a hand on Daisuke’s shoulder.

Cheering filled the arena once more as Daisuke’s score came up on the screen. It was high, taking first place away from the James Bond guy. There wasn’t really a smile on Daisuke’s face, but he did look relieved and pleased. Coach Kiyomizu pulled the skater into a side hug while Suzue looked at them fondly. Madame Kikuko had a pleased smile on his face, however she never once looked at Daisuke.

Mahoro tugged on Haru’s arm to get him to walk with her over to where Daisuke could see them. Daisuke’s grandmother had pulled him to the side and was finally talking to him; Coach Kiyomizu and Suzue looked away from the two. Daisuke had a slight frown; he almost seemed upset. Kikuko finished speaking and walked away with Daisuke watching after her. Suzue had said his name, making Daisuke look away. She walked over and hugged her cousin and then whispered something into his ear. Daisuke jolted slightly and turned to look at both Mahoro and Haru standing there. Haru waved at him awkwardly.

XXXX

Before Daisuke could say anything, his coach walked over and started to move the Kambes out of the way and back towards the skaters area. The next skater was being announced and they all should get out of the way. Mahoro and Haru followed after them. The area they came to had a television that showed the next skater getting ready. But Haru’s attention was on Daisuke.

His hair was starting to come loose from the gel, causing more strands to fall into Daisuke’s face. It was slightly endearing to Haru. There was a slight blush there too. Haru hadn’t realized how long he had been staring and was soon caught by steely blue eyes staring up at him. Haru flushed when Daisuke raised an eyebrow at him. He quickly looked away and tried to focus on the television.

The last two skater finished fairly quickly but none seemed to top Daisuke’s score. Coach Kiyomizu had pulled Daisuke into another side hug congratulating him. The dark haired figure skater looked pleased with the scores as well.

“Go change, Daisuke. Suzue and your friends will still be here,” Daisuke was handed a small duffle bag and he disappeared off towards a restroom area. Coach Kiyomizu turned to the other three. He held out a hand to Haru to shake.

“Yukihiro Kiyomizu. I’ve seen you around the college rink. It’s nice to finally meet you, Haru,” Haru rubbed at his nape, awkwardly. He hadn’t really noticed the coach before; he was usually occupied by thoughts of either practice or classes. Kiyomizu looked to Suzue.

“Please make sure he eats some more tonight. He barely ate breakfast and would only eat a protein bar for lunch,” Suzue frowned at that, but nodded to the coach. She turned to Mahoro and Haru, asking if they wanted to go with them. The two quickly agreed, and then Mahoro and Suzue began to chat away about possible restaurants.

A man walked into the area the group was in. He wore black joggers, and a blue plaid under a comfortable looking hoodie. He had wet black hair falling into his face. He was making a beeline right for the group. Haru did a double-take when he fully looked at him and realized who he was exactly.

“Daisuke?” The two girls started laughing at Haru as Daisuke just gave him an unamused look. He looked completely different, almost like a different person. Daisuke looked more vulnerable and Haru had to admit he thought the figure skater was cute like this.

Daisuke handed over his duffle bag and gear bag to his coach. Coach Kiyomizu wished them all a good night after telling Daisuke he would see him in the morning as well as an reminder to don’t forget to eat. He soon disappeared as the group decided to leave the arena.

Daisuke and Haru let the girls led them to whatever restaurant they had chosen. The two hung back, letting Mahoro and Suzue talk to themselves. Haru glanced at Daisuke, the younger man was typing at something on his phone. He started to look away, but paused when he heard the figure skater’s voice.

“Did you like my routine?” Haru looked back over at Daisuke. The phone was gone but he wasn’t looking at Haru.

“It was really good. Though I would never guess that song choice from you,” Daisuke did look over at that with a raised eyebrow.

“It’s just you never played songs like that when I skated with you,” Daisuke looked away.

“I try not to let anyone see or hear my routine choices before a competition, except for Coach Kiyomizu and my family,” That made sense and Haru was kind of glad he hadn’t had a clue to Daisuke’s routine, because it made the performance all the better.

XXXX

Dinner went by quickly and the group found themselves in a town square. Haru had gotten himself and Daisuke some coffee while Suzue and Mahoro had spotted a boba tea shop and headed for it. Sitting next to Daisuke, Haru was reminded of their midnight skating sessions together; the two content on not talking and just coexisting near each other. But something felt different this time; Haru couldn’t quite put his finger on it.

Haru looked over at Daisuke and found the younger man yawning some. He was struck by the thought of the figure skater being cute once more. Haru felt his heart pound slightly at that and looked away. He thought on the mix of emotions he’d been having lately about Daisuke and what they could mean. Haru could only come to one conclusion.

Oh shit. He liked Daisuke.

XXXX

Despite his new revelation, Haru stayed calm for the rest of the evening. He and Mahoro wished the two Kambes a good night shortly after. Mahoro had to get up early to practice and get ready; Haru with her.

Once he was in his room, Haru laid face down on his bed. He could admit Daisuke was attractive, but Haru didn’t really know all that much about him, save for the stories he was told by Mahoro. But Haru found that he did want to know more.

Haru would have to think more on this after this competition. He needed to help Mahoro. When he got home, he could figure out a way to get to know Daisuke more and figure out how far this attraction went.

XXXX

Haru was woken by knocking on his door. He made his way over to it, bleary eyed and scratching at his stomach. He figured it was probably Mahoro, but it was early. His alarm hadn’t even gone off yet.

“Mahoro, what’s wrong?” Haru said as he opened the door. A moment later, he fully opened his eyes to find it was not Mahoro standing there. Instead it was Daisuke.

There was surprise in Daisuke’s wide eyes as he had taken in Haru’s appearance. Haru felt a little self-conscious, dropping his shirt back down. He felt himself go red. Daisuke cleared his throat.

“Mahoro decided to leave early than she had told you. She asked me to tell you and bring you over,” Haru nodded. He wasn’t quite sure why Mahoro couldn’t have just sent him a text, but he was too tired to really care. He opened the door more to let Daisuke in. Haru walked over to his bag and pulled some clothes out.

Without really thinking about his crush being in the same room as him, Haru pulled his night shirt off, tossing it to the bed. There was a cough behind him, making Haru turn to look. Daisuke was pointedly looking away from him and Haru could swear there was a redness to the figure skater’s ears.

“Sorry. I’ll be right back,” Haru grabbed his clothes and made his way into the bathroom. Once he locked himself away, he smacked his face into his hands and groaned. Well, that was embarrassing. Haru got dressed quickly and went through his morning routine. He left the bathroom to find Daisuke sitting at the small table that held his laptop and school materials. He appeared to be looking at one of Haru’s notebooks.

Haru walked past him to reach his phone. It was only 8:23 in the morning, his alarm only had a few minutes left. He had messages, but they were from Kamei and Ryou. Ryou was wondering where he was while Kamei was just telling him about a party. Haru ignored Kamei and told Ryou that he was just away for the weekend; that he’d be back on Sunday.

Daisuke was looking at him when Haru made his way over to grab his coat and event pass. He yawned some since he wasn’t fully away still, before looking at the figure skater.

“Coffee?”

XXXX

Haru and Daisuke found themselves in the cafe Mahoro had discovered the day before. Haru had gotten a coffee and a bagel like last time, while Daisuke only got a coffee. Instead of leaving, the figure skater led Haru over to a table much to the hockey player’s confusion.

“I thought we needed to head over to the arena,” Daisuke sipped at his coffee, before he answered.

“Mahoro’s event doesn’t start for another couple hours. I was going to suggest breakfast beforehand, but you beat me to it,” Haru nodded as he bit into his bagel.

“Then shouldn’t you be eating too?” Daisuke frowned.

“I have trouble eating during competitions. I have some protein bars in my pocket,” Haru frowned at that. That didn’t seem healthy, but Haru couldn’t really say anything. Usually a couple of freshmen hockey players had problems before big games, due to nerves; it happened even to Haru. Haru, Captain Orwell and a couple others would get together and buy breakfast for everyone, something simple like bagels or doughnuts. He glanced at the last of his own bagel, before looking at Daisuke. He slid the bag over, making the figure skater confused.

“I’m full. Have some, they’re good,” Daisuke narrowed his eyes.

“Look, I get it. Nerves can get the best of anyone, even me. But not eating is just going to make you feel worse. I’m not asking you to eat all of it, but just a little bit,” Daisuke didn’t look happy, but he also didn’t push the bagel away. Haru knew he couldn’t really help the nerves problem, but he didn’t like it when his friends, or crush, weren’t taking care of themselves. Daisuke huffed, but pulled the bagel closer. Haru grinned to himself as he sipped his coffee and watched the figure skater eat some of the bagel.

XXXX

With breakfast over, Haru and Daisuke made their way towards the arena. Despite glaring at Haru, Daisuke did wind up finishing off the bagel. They walked in silence, making Haru feel awkward.

“How did you start skating?” Haru looked to Daisuke, waiting for an answer. Daisuke stared ahead and sipped at his coffee. After a minute, Haru looked away, figuring he wasn’t going to get an answer.

“My mother,” Haru looked back over, but Daisuke was looking at his coffee cup.

“She was a figure skater as well. She had me on the ice as soon as I could walk and showed me the basics,” That sounded really sweet. Haru tried to imagine a tiny Daisuke trying to figure out jumps and spins.

“Is she not here to watch you?” Daisuke looked over at Haru, a sort of melancholy to his eyes.

“She died when I was 8. Car accident,”

“Oh, sorry,” Daisuke looked away.

“It’s alright. Every time I win a medal, I dedicate it to her. I try to make her proud with each one,” Daisuke had a small smile on his face as he said this, as if he were remembering something.

“I’m sure she is,” Haru saw Daisuke look over at him in surprise. When he saw Haru smiling at him gently, the figure skater lifted his lips in a slight smile as well.

XXXX

The two talked for the rest of their walk, Haru getting his wish of getting to know more about Daisuke and the figure skater got to know some about the hockey player right back. By the time they reached the arena, the two knew each other’s favorite color and food; Haru had even told him about what he and other hockey players did for the whole team every game.

Daisuke led them to the ice and Haru could spot Mahoro on the side speaking to her coach. She spotted them walking over and grinned. Coach Motoyama turned as well, and when she saw Haru, she reached down and picked up a small bag.

“Just in time, Mahoro is about to go get ready. This is Kyo’s products kit. Anything you need for her hair should be in there,” Coach Motoyama handed the bag over as Mahoro picked up a garment bag.

“Dai-Chan, are you staying to watch?” Mahoro asked as she walked over to the other figure skater. Daisuke nodded.

“I’ll be in the stands with Suzue. Good luck,” Mahoro smiled big and hugged Daisuke, who patted her on the back. Mahoro let him go and turned to Haru, grabbing his arm.

“Let’s go, Haru!” Haru waved goodbye to Daisuke as he was led away.

XXXX

Mahoro led Haru to a small locker room and he stood outside as she got dressed. Haru decided to take that time to look through the products bag.

“Who are you?” Haru looked up to see a tall pink haired girl scowling at him. Behind her was a blond man carrying a bunch of bags.

“I’m Haru. I’m here to help Mahoro Saeki,” The girl raised an eyebrow.

“Mahoro’s in there?” She gestured to the door and Haru nodded. The girl turned and grabbed a garment bag from the guy. She knocked on the door and then walked right in without even waiting for an answer. Haru heard her say Mahoro’s name, and had gotten a cheerful response in return. Haru looked back over at the blond guy, who shrugged his shoulders at the hockey player.

“I’m Hiroshi. That was Yoko Hikasa, my fiancée,” Haru remembered Mahoro telling him about Yoko; she was a bit rough around the edges but Mahoro liked her well enough and loved her routines. After a couple minutes, Yoko opened the door and pointed at Haru.

“Mahoro’s ready for you,” The door was opened more so Haru could walk in. Mahoro was inside sitting on a bench, running a brush through her hair. She smiled up at Haru as he reached her. He took the brush to finish brushing her hair. Then, Haru got to work.

XXXX

It took 20 minutes to finish Mahoro’s hair into a cute half-braid ponytail. He was then recruited by Yoko to do her hair as well; she wanted simply space buns. He was going to disappear up into the stands after he was finished with everything, but Coach Motoyama convinced him to stay with her and Mahoro.

The competition started sooner than Haru realized with Mahoro going in second, and Yoko last. Haru stayed in the television area from the night before until it was time for Mahoro to go out. Haru loved her performance; it was to a song Haru recognized from an animation movie and it suited her. But as the other competitions went, Mahoro found herself in fourth place and Yoko right after her. Mahoro didn’t seem all that bothered by the scores though; Yoko did however.

After hugging her friend, Mahoro went to go change back into her regular clothes. Her coach gave Haru the responsibility of making sure Mahoro ate something. Haru promised that he’d take care of Mahoro. Coach Motoyama gave him a gentle smile and patted his arm. When Mahoro returned, her coach gave her a hug before she left. Mahoro turned to Haru.

“Let’s find Dai-Chan and Suzue,” Haru let himself be pulled by the arm by Mahoro as they walked through the arena. They found the two Kambes outside, between the two entrances. Suzue was holding a plushie that looked like a gummy bear. When they got closer, Suzue stood up and handed it to Mahoro. Haru smiled as his pink haired friend blushed and hugged the bear to her chest.

XXXX

The group went to go get a late lunch so Haru could make sure Mahoro did get some food, like her coach asked. When he looked over at Daisuke, Haru was pleased to see the figure skater eating a little bit as well.

When they were done, Mahoro had decided to go rest in her room. Suzue told the two boys that she would walk Mahoro to her room. Haru waved them off as he and Daisuke watched them leave.

It was a nice day, despite it being cold, so Haru asked Daisuke if he wanted to walk around for a little bit. The figure skater agreed, but only for just a bit, since he needed to go to practice. Haru didn’t mind that.

The two walked and talked just like that morning. Haru was then how he started playing hockey; his father, Mamoru Katou, used to love the sport and would watch the games with Haru. Mamoru would take Haru to the local rink so he could learn how to skate and then play the game as soon as the young boy proclaimed his own interest. Unfortunately however, Haru’s father died when the hockey player was in high school. Haru had taken a year off to grieve, but once he was back on the ice, Haru played every game as if his dad were watching and it brought out the best in him, eventually getting him recruited by Coach Takei.

Daisuke listened to the story and then asked about the rest of Haru’s family. Haru told him about how he was the youngest out of four, with three old sisters, and about some of the antics the siblings would get into. He told the figure skater about how his family was kind of too busy in their own lives to come see Haru play, but Haru tried to play it off as if he didn’t really mind. Though judging by Daisuke’s face, he wasn’t really buying it.

“When is your next home game?” Haru looked at Daisuke in confusion.

“Wednesday, why?”

“I usually go to all of Suzue’s home games. I’ll go to yours too,” Haru felt his heart best fast at that and he was extremely touched that Daisuke would do that for Haru. He looked away and smiled.

“Thanks. I’ll do my best,”

XXXX

After two hours of talking to each other, and getting to know more about each other, Daisuke had to leave. He left Haru in front of his hotel, before going towards his own hotel to grab his gear. Haru got to his room and laid down on his bed, hugging a pillow to his chest.

He really liked Daisuke.

XXXX

Haru was on his own for dinner that night; Daisuke was probably still in practice and Mahoro had texted him that she was getting dinner with Coach Motoyama. He didn’t mind being by himself; he had looked up some cheap takeout places nearby and was just going to go to one of them. But when Haru got outside, he found Suzue outside the hotel as if waiting for someone.

“Suzue?”

“Haru! I was waiting for you,” Suzue smiled at him. Haru was slightly confused, but shrugged it off.

“Oh, um, I’m going to get some food. Would you like to walk with me?” Suzue nodded and the two started off in the direction of the restaurant.

“So why were you waiting for me?” Suzue’s smiled turned gentle.

“I’m happy my cousin has found a friend in you. Daisuke deserves good things to happen to him and I know you take good care of your friends,” Haru flushed, scratching at his cheek bashfully. He wasn’t quite ready to admit out loud about his attraction to Daisuke. But he was glad to have Suzue’s approval to at least be the figure skater’s friend.

“I was wondering if you could do something for Daisuke,” Haru looked back over at her.

“Ok, what should I do?” Suzue had a slightly mischievous grin on her face.

“You saw how I brought Mahoro a teddy bear, and how sometimes after a performance, things would be thrown out onto the ice,” Haru did actually; it was either flowers or plushies. Daisuke, himself, had what looked like cat plushies thrown for him, but the figure skater never picked any up. He wondered where Suzue was going with this.

“Daisuke usually donates his gifts to local children’s hospital or centers, but he does adore the flowers he’s given,” Oh, Haru was starting to understand.

“What flowers are his favorite?”

“Lilies. He loves lilies,”

XXXX

Suzue disappeared after telling Haru about Daisuke’s flower preference. Haru had gotten an idea; flowers don’t last forever but there were ways to have keepsake ones. He located a nearby hobby shop and got two silk lilies. With those taken care of, Haru got his dinner and then tried to find a flower shop nearby,

The florist did still have some lilies in stock and she could keep some for Haru to pick up before the men’s event started tomorrow. Since he was only getting a couple of flowers, the prices weren’t as high as a bouquet, which Haru was glad for since he didn’t have that type of money. Happy with his choices, Haru made his way back to the hotel, ready for the next day.

XXXX

Haru was awoken the next day to knocking on his door. This time it was Mahoro. She told him to get dressed and they went to go get breakfast at the usual cafe. Then, they went back to the hotel to watch the free skate programs for the pairs division. Mahoro cheered as her favorite pair came in first place and took gold.

Once that was over, Mahoro explained how the lineup was different than last time; last place would be going first and then continue through that lineup. Daisuke would be going last tonight. That would give Haru enough time to go get the flowers.

Haru was able to convince Mahoro to go ahead to the arena without him. She raised an eyebrow, but agreed to do so. Haru got to the florist with his silk flowers so they could be combined with the real ones. The florist found it incredibly sweet and wished him luck. Haru blushed, but thanked her.

Haru got to the arena just as the first skater got onto the ice. He decided to go up into the stands until he knew that Daisuke was going to get ready to be on the ice. He watched the first four skaters, finding them interesting, but they weren’t the ones he wanted to see. When the fifth skater came out and started to get ready, Haru made his way down to the skaters area.

Haru located Mahoro and Suzue in an area with a TV, but no sign of Daisuke. When Suzue spotted him, the smile on her face grew wider just at the sight of the flowers in his hands. Haru knew he was blushing, but ignored the two girls to watch the skater on the screen.

When the skater was done, Daisuke came out and the trio decided to go be by the ice so they could see him perform in person. The figure skater appeared to be wearing a tight red shirt tucked into black pants that showed off his collar bones; it had something that was sparkling and went around his neckline down on his shoulder onto his arms. Daisuke was speaking with Coach Kiyomizu as he waited for the ice to be cleared for him. Haru noticed that Madame Kikuko was standing right behind the two.

Daisuke got onto the ice as his name was announced. He got to the middle of the ice and got into position; looking upwards towards the sky with a hand on his heart. Then a song began to play and Haru recognized it as the song Daisuke had been playing the first night they skated together.

Like before, Haru thought the song sounded sad, but there was a hopeful note to it as he listened to it more. He wondered if Daisuke related to the song. Before he could think more on it, the performance was over with. Daisuke stood at center ice with his arms outstretched looking back up to the sky again. There was a quiet moment before the arena was filled with cheering. Daisuke breathed deeply some before making his way over to his coach. But Haru’s attention was now on Kikuko; there was a glint to her eye that Haru didn’t really like. It was almost as if she were mad at Daisuke.

Daisuke, Kikuko and Coach Kiyomizu made their way over to the kiss and cry to await Daisuke’s score. It was evident that the figure skater was trying to stay away from his grandmother, given the amount of space he had between them. Daisuke focused on his coach as he started to say something. There was a calm in the arena as everyone waited for the score to be brought up. But they didn’t need to wait long.

The score was on the screen and judging by the stunned expressions on his friends’ faces, Haru figured it was pretty good. Added to the score from his short program, Daisuke’s entire score had him in first place once more. He had gotten gold. Haru looked at the figure skater’s face and he could tell Daisuke was pleased. His grandmother on the other hand looked dissatisfied.

The announcer told the arena that there would be a short break before the medalists would be presented. Suzue and Mahoro both grabbed one of Haru’s arms each and began to make their way over towards the kiss and cry area. Like the other night, Kikuko had pulled her grandson to the side to speak to him. Coach Kiyomizu, for once, did not have a smile as he looked at the two Kambes. When he got closer, Haru could only hear fragments of the conversation; something about Daisuke being childish and how he could have done better if he had just obeyed her. Haru could feel his anger begin to burn as Kikuko continued to talk down at Daisuke. It was only when she realized she had an audience that Kikuko stopped talking.

“We will finish this conversation at a later time,” Kikuko looked away from Daisuke, only to see Coach Kiyomizu stepping over.

“No. I don’t think you will. Our contract is clear, Madame Kambe. You are no longer in control of Daisuke’s career and thus have no say in whatever Daisuke chooses to perform,” Kikuko glared at the man.

“How dare you. I am his main sponsor. Without me, he wouldn’t have a career,” Suzue must have decided that that was enough and stepped in as well.

“No. Daisuke’s main sponsor is Kambe Industries where Uncle Shigemaru is in charge. Uncle is the one supporting Daisuke, not you,” Seeing that she was losing the argument, Kikuko decided to take her leave. Haru looked over at Daisuke, who seemed to relax once his grandmother was gone. Suzue walked over and pulled the figure skater into a hug, saying something into his ear. Once his cousin released him, Daisuke looked better and he gave her a grateful look. 

Daisuke looked away from his cousin to maybe look at his coach, but he stopped when he saw Haru standing there with the flowers. The hockey player felt his face heat up in a blush and knew almost certainly that there was a blush on Daisuke’s face as well. Haru felt a push on his back that made him step forward. He saw Suzue grinned and then pushed Daisuke forward as well. Haru held out the flowers so Daisuke could take them. The figure skater hesitantly reached out for them and then held them gingerly to his chest. Haru rubbed nervously at his nape.

“Suzue said they were your favorites,” Daisuke sent a glare over his shoulder at his cousin, but quickly looked back to Haru.

“They are, thank you,”

Before the two could say anything else, Daisuke’s name was being called so he could go receive his medal. He kept the flowers with him as he went out onto the ice. Haru felt someone nudge him and looked to find Mahoro wiggling her eyebrows at him with a huge smile on her face. On the other side of Haru, Suzue stood with a more grateful smile as she looked out at the ice with her cousin being given his gold medal.

XXXX

The medal ceremony was soon over and Daisuke made his way back over to his group. Coach Kiyomizu wordlessly handed over Daisuke’s duffle bag. The figure skater disappeared with it, still not letting go of the flowers.

“After Daisuke is done with the press conference, he’s free to go wherever you all wanted to go,” Coach Kiyomizu gave them a smile. Apparently while Haru was away, Suzue and Mahoro talked about what to do with the rest of their evening, while still taking in account the possibility of Daisuke being tired and Mahoro’s needing to be up early. Daisuke reappeared in his sports jacket and some joggers. Haru’s heart thumped hard in his chest at the sight of the figure skater still holding onto the lilies.

Coach Kiyomizu and Daisuke left in the direction the press conference was being held. The remaining trio promised the dark haired skater that they would meet him as soon as he was done. Suzue offered to hold the flowers for Daisuke and the figure skater almost reluctantly handed them over. When she looked them over, Suzue turned to Haru.

“Are a couple of these silk flowers?” Haru nervously rubbed at his nape.

“Yeah. I figured since flowers sometimes don’t last that long, that it would be nice for Daisuke to have a keepsake,” When Haru looked back up at Suzue, she looked both pleased and delighted by his answer.

XXXX

When Daisuke returned with his coach, he didn’t look happy. His hands were clenched and his brow furrowed. Coach Kiyomizu seemed slightly upset as well. Before anyone could ask, Daisuke gave them the answer.

“They asked about Grandmother. Our conversation had been overheard,” Suzue and Mahoro frowned at that and though Haru still didn’t understand the tension between Daisuke and Kikuko, he didn’t like seeing the figure skater upset. Suzue grabbed her cousin’s hand, making him relax it.

“Let’s forget about Grandmother for tonight. We’ll go eat. You know how much she hated you eating sweets during competition season. We can go get some,” Suzue looked over at Coach Kiyomizu, asking for his permission. The coach had a fond smile now on his face and then gave her a small nod. Daisuke was looking more relaxed now with a tiny smile on his face. Haru thought it suited him.

XXXX

Daisuke was convinced to let his coach take the flowers Haru gave him back to the hotel. Haru was kind of glad; he didn’t think he could handle the image of Daisuke constantly carrying them around. Suzue soon led the group out of the arena and towards the restaurant that had been chosen. Haru walked beside Daisuke as he let Mahoro be next to Suzue.

“You can ask if you want,” Haru looked over at Daisuke. Before they left the arena, the figure skater went to the bathroom and ran some water through his hair to make the gel lose its hold. Daisuke was glancing at Haru through his fringe. The hockey player didn’t want to make the figure skater uncomfortable, but he also did want to know what was going on with Kikuko Kambe.

“What is up with your grandmother?”

“My grandmother had also been a figure skater. She went on to coach my mother, Sayuri Morino. She took over my coaching after my mother’s death. She had high expectations of me and always controlled what music I would use for my programs,” Daisuke had a frown on his face as he stared ahead.

“When I reached the senior division, I decided I had had enough. I talked with my father who saw my side of things, and then we found Coach Kiyomizu,” The frown turned into a slight smile as Daisuke spoke about his father.

“We wrote up a contract and had Grandmother sign it, terminating her control over me and my career,” Daisuke looked back at Haru. The hockey player wasn’t sure how to react; he was glad the figure skater wasn’t being controlled anymore, but disheartened by the fact someone Daisuke had loved and trusted would do such a thing.

“We let her join us in the Kiss and Cry merely because she is my grandmother and well known. But I think it’s time that stopped,” Daisuke looked like he was certain of the fact.

“I’m sorry this happened to you,” Daisuke shrugged his shoulder at that. Haru frowned at him, but he didn’t know what else to say.

XXXX

Dinner had been good, dessert even better; Daisuke had gotten some sort of chocolate cake, Haru and Suzue each got a slice of the strawberry shortcake, while Mahoro got a cookie dough milkshake.

The Kambes decided to walk Mahoro and Haru back to their hotel. However, once they reached the entrance, Suzue distracted Mahoro with something and they walked away from the two boys. Haru watched them in confusion and turned to Daisuke. The figure skater had a raised eyebrow and he also turned to the hockey player.

“That was weird,” Daisuke shrugged at Haru’s statement.

“Not really. I did tell Suzue that I did want to express my thanks to you for the flowers,” Haru blushed slightly.

“You don’t need to. I’m glad you liked them,” Daisuke shook his head and then he stepped closer to Haru. The hockey player felt his heart beat faster as he let the figure skater into his personal space. Haru froze as Daisuke stood on tiptoes to place a kiss on the hockey player’s cheek. The figure skater backed off slightly, a smirk across his face at the sight of Haru’s bright red blush.

“Thank you, Haru Katou, for the flowers,” Daisuke turned on his heel and walked off. Haru watched him go, holding a hand to the cheek Daisuke had just kissed.

XXXX

Haru had gotten back to his room in a daze and dreamt about soft lips touching his face over and over. Mahoro woke him by knocking on his door and reminded him to pack his things since they needed to check out. Haru quickly got his things together and got dressed, before he joined his friend and Coach Motoyama in the lobby. They dropped any bags that they didn’t need off at Motoyama’s car, before they made their way over to the arena.

Mahoro practiced for a little bit as she shared the ice with several other female skaters. Haru spotted Yoko on the other side of the ice; she had her eyes closed and seemed to focusing on whatever was coming through her earbuds.

Soon practice time was over and Haru was following Mahoro back to a locker room so she could get ready. Yoko didn’t appear this time. Haru gave his friend a braided bun look once she was dressed in her costume. With Mahoro being in fourth place, she was going third today with Yoko going right before her.

Mahoro hugged Haru’s arm as she watched her friend perform. Yoko had fallen twice which hurt her score and by the end of the performance, the girl looked frustrated. There were cat plushies being thrown on the ice for the Yoko and she reached down and picked up a black, white and red one, hugging it close. Mahoro had to head out towards the ice to get ready.

When they got out to the ice, Haru caught a glimpse of Yoko’s score. It had upped her to second place, but there was still four other skaters that needed to go.

Mahoro went with another song from an animated movie. At the Kiss and Cry, they watched as Mahoro’s score took second place away from Yoko. Haru watched his friend hug her coach, happy with the scores. They left and made their way back to the skaters’ area. There, Mahoro found Yoko and pulled her friend into a hug. The other pink haired girl looked annoyed but it soon faded and Yoko looked grateful for the affection.

The rest of the women’s division went by fast. The skater after Mahoro took first place, bumping the girl down to third and Yoko to fourth. However, the other two didn’t do much better than Yoko, keeping the girls in their positions, and Mahoro winning bronze.

The medal ceremony was soon conducted and Mahoro congratulated the other two medalists and asked to take a picture together that Haru knew the pink haired girl was going to put on her social media. Once she was off the ice, Mahoro hugged Haru and took a photo with him as well, proclaiming she was going to post it and tag him. Haru didn’t really check any of his social media much and rarely posted; he was usually just tagged in things. Haru was pretty sure the last photo he, himself, had posted was from the year before; it was of him and Kamei at a charity event the hockey team was helping with, the two were in their swimming trunks, dripping wet and shivering after jumping into a lake in January weather. Haru always felt cold remembering it.

Mahoro and Coach Motoyama disappeared to go speak at their own press conference. Haru was left wondering where the Kambes were. He didn’t have either of their numbers so he couldn’t really text them. When Mahoro reappeared to take Haru so they could leave, he asked.

“They left early this morning. Suzue had practice to get to. She promised to see me later tonight. Dai-chan said something about seeing you on Wednesday,” Mahoro looked over at Haru curiously and saw him blushing some. When he looked over, Haru saw her smiling gently at him.

XXXX

Haru slept for the entire car ride back to campus and was woken up by Mahoro gently nudging his shoulder. Outside his dorm, his pink haired friend pulled him into one last hug, thanking Haru for what he had done for her. Haru hugged her back tightly and told Mahoro that if she ever needed help like that again, all she had to do was ask Haru. When the figure skater left, Haru made his way into his dorm.

In his room, Haru laid on his bed and checked his phone. There weren’t any new messages, but he did see that Mahoro had been true to her word, and tagged him in several photos of her showing of the hairstyles he had done for her and the photo they took together. Yoko had apparently found his account and tagged him as well for styling her space buns on the first days.

Haru put his phone away and rolled over onto his side, ready to get some more sleep. But after a couple minutes of laying there, there was a knock on his door. Haru grumbled but got up anyway. He found Kamei and Ryou on the other side. He walked away from the door, leaving it open to let them in. Haru sat on his bed, while Ryou took his desk chair and Kamei took the beanbag on the floor.

“What’s up with you two?” His juniors looked at each other and then back at Haru.

“Where were you this weekend?”

“And why are you all over Mahoro Saeki’s instagram?” Kamei held up his phone that had Mahoro’s account up.

“I was helping Mahoro out at her competition,” Ryou raised an eyebrow while Kamei gasped.

“Are you dating her?” Haru glared at the blond.

“No. Me and Mahoro are just friends,” Kamei looked like he didn’t really believe Haru, but Ryou was smiling at his senior. He knew that Haru and Mahoro were truly friends and strictly platonic.

“That’s sweet, Haru. Did you have fun?” Haru nodded.

“It was interesting. Suzue and Daisuke Kambe were there as well. Daisuke was competing too,” Now Ryou looked confused again.

“Daisuke Kambe? The Ice Prince?” Haru knew now that Daisuke didn’t mind the rink’s nickname for him. He actually quite liked it, it was the reason he was left alone most of the time. Haru nodded and watched his friends look at each other once more.

“What is going on with you and Kambe? We thought you didn’t like him,” Haru thought about his mid night skating sessions, of how his feelings began to change over the past couple of weeks to this weekend of Haru acknowledging his attraction to Daisuke and then Daisuke kissing the hockey player on the cheek. Haru smiled to himself.

“No, I think I do,”

XXXX

The week started back up and Haru found himself back in his classes and practice. The team was gearing up for the game on Wednesday and everyone was excited. Well, mostly everyone. Chandler looked pissed and the looks he kept sending Haru made the golden eyed hockey player uneasy. But he tried to not think about it; Chandler couldn’t do anything to Haru without hurting his spot on the team.

Practice leading up to Wednesday was intense but it was neccassary for the game. By the time Wednesday morning came, Haru felt ready. He caught up with Captain Orwell and a couple other guys so they could do what they usually do and get the team breakfast. But when they left the rink, Haru noticed Daisuke standing outside the door. Orwell gave his junior the okay to go over to his friend, but to try and be quick so they could leave. Haru willed himself to not blush as he got closer to Daisuke.

“Hey, what are you doing here?” Daisuke took off his sunglasses to look at Haru clearly. There was a small smile on his face.

“I was wondering if I could help,” Haru tilted his head in confusion.

“With what?”

“You buy breakfast for your team before every game, that’s what you said. It’s expensive to buy for 20+ people so I was wondering if I could buy breakfast for you all,” Haru looked at Daisuke in surprise. He heard footsteps behind him and turned to see his captain. Captain Orwell had a raised eyebrow.

“Kambe, you sure you want to do this?” The smile Daisuke had turned almost business-like. It felt so fake to Haru, he didn’t like it.

“Anything for our reigning champions,” Captain Orwell laughed and thumped Haru on the shoulder.

“All because of Goldie here,” Haru flushed in embarrassment. He saw Daisuke huff out a laugh.

“Well, if you want to help us out, I won’t say no,” Haru’s captain thanked Daisuke before going back to the rest of the group. Haru rubbed at his shoulder before looking at Daisuke. The softer smile was back on the figure skater’s face, now that it was just the two of them once more.

“You don’t have to do this, but thank you,” Daisuke rolled his eyes and walked closer to Haru. The two walked side by side the whole way to the restaurant.

XXXX

Captain Orwell tried to keep it simple and cheap so Daisuke wouldn’t have to pay as much but the figure skater didn’t seem to be having it. Including the usual order of coffee and bagels, Daisuke ordered a bunch of different type of breakfast sandwiches and some sides. He, then, turned to Vice Captain Oliver and gave him some money to go get some juice in a nearby store. Daisuke wouldn’t let anyone know what the whole total was, but they all figured it was a lot more than they usually spent.

Everyone grabbed a bag or the coffee containers once it was done and they began to make their way back to the rink. Daisuke, who was carrying a bag of bagels, ignored everyone trying to thank him. Haru, not slightly used to the figure skater’s stoic behavior, just rolled his eyes and motioned for everyone to leave Daisuke alone. They made it back to the rink and set breakfast up in a giant conference room that was down the hall from the locker room. Captain Orwell went to go get the rest of the team and Daisuke tried to disappear, but Haru grabbed his wrist, before he could.

“Eat with us. There’s more than enough,” Daisuke looked up from where Haru was gently holding his wrist still. He didn’t say anything, but he nodded. Haru grinned and began to pull the figure skater over to the food. They should probably grab some before the rest of the team showed up and descended on it.

The team trickled in, everyone grabbing whatever caught their eye first. Daisuke kept getting glances, but he ignored them. Ryou and Kamei made their way over to Haru and Daisuke, plates in hand.

“Haru. Good morning,” Ryou yawned after saying that, while Kamei was just outright staring at Daisuke. Ryou elbowed the blond in the stomach, before holding out a hand to the figure skater.

“Ryou Hoshino, the team calls me Hoshi. I think we’ve met before,” Daisuke put his plate down and shook Ryou’s hand.

“Yes, you walked into me and made me drop my gear bag earlier this semester,” Kamei laughed as Ryou blushed in embarrassment.

“Sorry again,”

“It’s alright. My gear bag had protection inside and can take a minor fall like that,” Ryou looked relieved about that. He, then, nudged Kamei, who was chugging a bottle of orange juice.

“What?! Oh right. Shinnosuke Kamei, also known as Turtle. Are you really related to Suzue Kambe?” Daisuke nodded.

“She is my cousin,”

“Is she single?” Haru and Ryou glared at Kamei, but Daisuke only raised an eyebrow.

“No. She just confessed to her longtime crush the other day and the two started dating,” Kamei didn’t look dejected by that, merely shrugging his shoulders. He said something about more food and walked off. Ryou sighed.

“Sorry about him. He doesn’t think before he speaks,” Daisuke shrugged one of his shoulders.

“I prefer people to be upfront with what they want from me,” Haru could swear that Daisuke glanced at him. Ryou smiled at that.

“Well I should get some more to eat as well. Have a good day, Daisuke,” Daisuke nodded at that. Ryou waved at Haru before going over to some of the other freshmen players. Haru went to talk some more with Daisuke, when he saw someone staring at the two of them.

Chandler and Mitchell stood in a corner of the room, neither of them had any food. Chandler had his arms crossed, just outright glaring at both Haru and Daisuke. Mitchell was typing on his phone and then said something to Chandler. Whatever was said made Chandler smirk which was then directed at Haru. It made Haru feel like they were planning something and he became uneasy.

“Suzue and Mahoro are coming with you tonight, right?” Daisuke looked up from his plate of food, confused.

“Yes?” Haru didn’t look away from Chandler and Mitchell.

“Stay close to them. Don’t be alone if you can avoid it,” Daisuke raised an eyebrow, but he agreed. Haru relaxed some, thankful that he wouldn’t have to worry over his crush during the game.

XXXX

Daisuke disappeared after all the food was gone with a promise that he’d see Haru after the game. Haru helped clean up the conference room.

“So now you’re boyfriends with the Ice Prince?” Haru looked up to find Chandler standing across the table from him. He rolled his eyes.

“I don’t see how that’s any of you business,”

“Whatever, Katou. Just watch you back, you can’t always be the ace on this team,” Haru furrowed his brows at that. Before he could question Chandler about what he meant, the reserve player walked away.

XXXX

Everyone had their own little habits they did before a game for good luck; Captain Orwell liked to take a nap, Ryou listened to his favorite band, Kamei watched porn. Haru’s own thing was to just call his mother. They would talk about anything other than hockey. This time, his mother had a topic in mind.

“Who was the young man you were giving flowers to?” Haru blushed.

“What?! How do you know about that?”

“It’s on instagram. You were tagged in a photo,” Haru head his notifications for that app turned off. He didn’t want to be bothered by it.

“So are you going to tell me?” Haru sighed.

“His name is Daisuke Kambe. He’s a figure skater that goes here as well,” Haru heard his mother hum at that. She was waiting for him to continue.

“I’ve been getting to know him since October. He’s, uh...he’s a friend,” Haru cringed, he didn’t want to say that. He liked Daisuke as more than a friend, but he didn’t want to be overheard.

“So you drove to an event three hours away from campus just to give a friend some flowers. Haru, that’s not like you,”

“I was there to help Mahoro too,”

“Yes, I know. I’m proud of you for being so good to your friends. But something tells me this Daisuke boy is different,” Haru sighed. His mother knew him so well.

“Okay, fine, you’re right. He’s different. I think I really like him, Mom,”

“Oh Haru. The smile you gave him in the photo was a smitten look. Me and you both know there is thinking about it,” Haru smiled to himself. He was going to have to find the photo of himself and Daisuke. He wanted a copy.

“Are you going to tell him?” Haru blinked, surprised.

“Maybe? I mean I just realized my feelings, okay?”

“Okay, okay. I hear you,” Haru shook his head some, and then glanced at the clock. It was almost time for him to go get ready.

“It’s almost time, isn’t it?” Haru gave his mother an affirmative.

“I wish I could be there. I’m sorry,”

“It’s okay. I understand. I know you, Hana, Ume and Mio would all be here if you could,”

“Do your best, Haru. I know your father is watching over you,”

“I promise. I’ll make you and him proud,”

“Oh, Haru. You already do,”

XXXX

The game was going well. They were 2-1 and about to start their last period. Haru had a good feeling about this game. He hadn’t seen Daisuke in the stands yet, but he couldn’t focus on that. He got back on the ice after a short break, ready to help his team hopefully get one more goal.

The other team was good and were hard to work against, but in a play involving himself, Kamei and Vice Captain Oliver, Haru’s team was able to score another goal. Haru leaned against the boards, catching his breath, when he heard knocking against the glass. Haru turned and there stood Daisuke. Someone had wrapped a scarf with the team’s colors around his neck, and he was wearing his hair down. When he saw that he had Haru’s attention, a smile bloomed across Daisuke’s face. Haru smiled back.

Daisuke’s face soon turned to concern and horror when he looked over Haru’s shoulder at something. Haru went to look as well, but something slammed into him hard, and everything went black.

XXXX

Haru woke to a steady beeping by his head and people whispering; his head and left arm held a dulled pain. He slowly tried to open his eyes, but the light above him made the pain in his head worse. He groaned and the whispers he heard stopped.

“Haru?” Haru tried to open his eyes again, but could only keep them half open. He saw Coach Takei standing above him.

“Coach, what happened?” Coach Takei had a frown on his face.

“A member of the opposing team slammed into you, even though the play was over,”

“How bad?”

“Concussion and a broken arm,” Haru groaned again. His season was over. He looked back up at his coach when the man said his name.

“The player that hit you turned out to be Bryant Mitchell’s cousin. He confessed to being bribed by Bryant and Chandler to take you out,” Haru raised an eyebrow. Did his teammates hate him that badly? Coach Takei looked pissed.

“As far as I’m concerned, they’re both off of the team now, and we’re taking the matter to the school board so they can make a decision about their behavior,” Haru didn’t know what to say. His head started to pound again, making him groan again and clutch at his head.

“There’s a couple people here to see you. Do you want them in or to rest?” Haru kind of wanted both, to be honest. He knew it was going to be his friends, but he also just wanted to sleep.

“Let them in,” Coach Takei nodded and went over to the door. He spoke for a moment, and then Kamei and Ryou walked in. Kamei shouted Haru’s name, but when he saw Haru wince at the noise level, Ryou elbowed the blond in the stomach. Ryou took the chair next to the bed and Kamei chose to stand.

“How are you doing?”

“Shit hurts,” Kamei and Ryou laughed some.

“What happened to the game?” Ryou blinked in surprise, but Kamei answered.

“We won! 3 to 1,” Haru smiled at that; at least his team would continue onto the next game. Haru decided to sit up, much to the distress of his friends. He looked down at his arm, which had a green cast covering it. Kamei said something about the whole team being ready to sign it for him. Haru just wondered when he was being discharged. The three hockey players looked over at the door when Coach Takei knocked on the door frame.

“Time’s up,” Kamei and Ryou nodded and got up. They told Haru that they’d see him soon. Haru was going to lean back onto his pillows when he noticed Coach Takei hadn’t left.

“There’s one more waiting for you. You two talk while I figure out how to discharge you,” Haru watched his coach step out of the room again and heard him give someone the okay to walk in. Daisuke came into the room. He had seemed tense, but upon seeing Haru awake, he relaxed some.

“Haru,” Haru gave him a gentle smile and motioned for Daisuke to come closer. The figure skater pushed a chair closer to the hospital bed.

“Are you going to be okay?” Haru shrugged at Daisuke’s question.

“Just a concussion and a broken arm. My season is over though,” Daisuke frowned. He leaned forward and took Haru’s hand into his. It was warm and very soft. Haru glanced between their hand and Daisuke.

“Just because you can’t play does not mean you can’t be there for your team,” Haru smiled at that and squeezed Daisuke’s hand.

“Thank you,”

XXXX

Daisuke stayed with Haru as he waited for his coach to return. The figure skater had found Haru’s phone for him in the hockey player’s gear bag that was brought in with him. Haru found he had a couple of missed calls from his mother. He called back quickly.

Haru’s mother had found out he had gotten hurt through a phone call from Coach Nakamura, who had stayed behind with the team when Coach Takei went with Haru to the hospital. Haru reassured her that he was okay, but Sakura wasn’t having any of it. She told her son that she took the rest of her shift off and would be at the hospital soon. Haru smiled and just accepted it.

Sakura Katou appeared 20 minutes after Haru had called her. Her own sand colored hair was falling slightly out of its bun and she was still dressed in light blue scrubs that had a cherry blossom design. She walked over and pulled her son into a hug, before giving him her own check over. It was when Sakura looked down at Haru’s cast covered arm that she noticed Haru was holding someone’s hand. She looked up to find Daisuke giving her a curious look.

“Oh,” Sakura looked at Haru who was now blushing.

“You must be Daisuke Kambe. Haru’s told me a bit about you,” Daisuke smiled, looking at Haru, who looked away in embarrassment.

“I hope it was all good,”

XXXX

Sakura left the two college students alone when Coach Takei had come back to talk about Haru’s discharge. She had said something about possibly taking Haru home for the weekend. After a couple more minutes, a doctor and a nurse came in and looked him over. They then cleared him to go home. Haru got dressed in the clothes that he left in his gear bag. He was given instructions to take it easy for the next couple days and not exert himself. Haru should also probably stay off the ice until his cast was off and the doctors were sure about him recovering from his concussion.

Once they were outside of the hospital, Sakura and Coach Takei went to go get their cars. Daisuke was getting a ride back to campus from the hockey coach. 

Daisuke had let go of Haru’s hand when the doctor came in and the hockey player found himself missing Daisuke’s touch. Haru reached over and took Daisuke’s hand in his, making the figure skater look over. A blush bloomed across Daisuke’s face as Haru laced their fingers together.

“Go out with me,” Haru felt himself blush, but he didn’t look away from Daisuke. The figure skater’s eyes went wide, but he soon smiled. He tugged on Haru’s hand, making him bend down some and kissed the hockey player’s cheek. Haru wanted to pull Daisuke into a real kiss, but he saw the cars getting closer to them. Daisuke had a smirk on his face.

“Meet me at the rink on Sunday. We’ll get dinner,” Daisuke squeezed Haru’s hand before letting go to get into Coach Takei’s car. Haru watched them go until his mother started beeping the car horn at him. Sakura was smiling at her son when he finally got into her car.

“So you confessed?” Haru, who was still in slight shock, just nodded his head.

XXXX

It wasn’t easy dating each other, but it also wasn’t hard. The two were busy with their own school lives while Daisuke still had several competitions and Haru was being taken under Captain Orwell’s wing to learn what was expected of a captain. But the two made it work. All of their friends had been happy for them once they announced they were dating. Mahoro and Suzue confessed to trying to meddle with them; mostly Suzue because she knew of her cousin’s crush on the hockey player.

Their first kiss had been after their first date. Daisuke had tried to get away with teasing Haru again by only kissing him on the cheek once more. But Haru had turned his head at the right moment and they kissed properly. When they pulled away, the two laughed a little before kissing again.

Haru was officially named captain at the end of the season banquet. Though he was still nervous about accepting the role, he knew he had his friends and Daisuke by his side. Haru couldn’t go with his boyfriend to international events, but he watched them all when he could, either with Mahoro, Suzue or Ryou.

Daisuke went on to win gold again in France and then once more in the Grand Prix Final. On national television, he dedicated the medal to both his mother and his boyfriend, pretty much shocking the world. Daisuke wouldn’t answer any journalists’ questions about his mystery boyfriend, but could be seen carrying around a silk lily. Haru smacked Daisuke on the back of the head lightly, before kissing him when the figure skater got back from the competition.

They became known as the Golden Couple in the rink; because of Haru’s nickname and Daisuke’s medals. The two had laughed about it, but they both secretly loved it.

Haru never thought he would fall in love with the rink’s Ice Prince. But now he wouldn’t have it any other way.

Chapter Text

Haru and Daisuke had only been dating for two and a half months and Daisuke’s birthday was coming up. Haru had almost panicked when Suzue had told him only a week before, but she had calmed him. Daisuke preferred to have his birthday simple, usually only a good meal and some time with his family and friends. He didn’t really want any sort of gifts. Haru could work with that, and began to grill Suzue on possible meal ideas for Daisuke’s birthday dinner.

Once Suzue and Haru were in agreement about what to do and make, they came up with a plan. Suzue would buy the ingredients and then Haru would cook most of the meal. The two would work together to make a cake for the birthday boy.

It was the day before Daisuke’s birthday and Haru was with his boyfriend in his own dorm room. They were in Haru’s tiny bed, cuddling close together and watching some sort of movie that Haru lost track of. Judging by the fact, Daisuke was scrolling through his phone, the figure skater wasn’t paying attention either.

“Are you coming to dinner tomorrow night?” Suzue had kept it secret that Haru was making dinner. Since Daisuke would be with his father for some of the day, the figure skater wouldn’t have a clue.

“Yeah,” Daisuke turned some to look at Haru. He had stolen one of Haru’s favorite hoodies and washed his hair of its usual gel. Haru fought the temptation to lean forward and kiss his boyfriend. He nudged Daisuke a little to keep his attention.

“Why?”

“My father wants to meet you,” Haru didn’t know very much about Daisuke’s father. He knew Shigemaru was usually very busy with his work and his company was Daisuke’s main sponsor. He had also been in the car accident that had taken Sayuri’s life and now has to use a wheelchair. Daisuke had once mentioned he used to blame his father for his mother’s death, but came to his senses and apologized. The two were closer now, moreso after Shigemaru helped his son deal with Kikuko.

“Huh, okay. I can’t wait,” Honestly, Haru was a little nervous, but he knew this could mean a lot to Daisuke and Haru kind of wanted Shigemaru’s approval.

This made Haru think about taking Daisuke to meet his own family. His mother already loved the figure skater from the one time they had met and had asked Haru a couple time to bring Daisuke over to meet Haru’s sisters. Haru knew his sisters would not hold back and would tell his boyfriend any and all embarrassing stories that came to their minds. Haru both dreaded and looked forward to it.

Maybe Shigemaru had some stories about baby Daisuke.

XXXX

Suzue sent Haru the all clear message once Daisuke was gone from the apartment, and the hockey player headed over. He had only been to the figure skater’s apartment a couple of times. The two had spent more time in Haru’s dorm.

Once he was in the apartment, Haru was given an apron. Then, he and Suzue got to work. They had decided to make a chocolate cake with strawberry icing. It had almost looked professional once Haru and Suzue were done with it. They stored it away in the fridge, cleaned up and then got ready to cook dinner.

Haru decided to make a pasta dish that his family like to make; it would be enough to feed a group of people and leave leftovers. Suzue helped some by chopping vegetables but she mainly let Haru do his own thing, eventually leaving the kitchen to him. Once he was certain his sauce and meat were done, Haru turned to grab the pasta, only to jolt at the sight of Daisuke in the doorway. His boyfriend had a soft smile on his face as he observed Haru.

“How long have you been standing there?” Daisuke let out a slight laugh.

“Only a few minutes. I wanted to get my father something to drink and saw you concentrating on what you’re cooking. Suzue failed to tell me that you would be the one cooking for us,” Daisuke walked into the kitchen more and joined Haru by the stove. He handed his boyfriend the box of noodles he had reached for.

“What are you making?”

“Katou family recipe. Homemade creamy garlic sauce and shrimp overtop linguine. Here, try,” Haru got a clean spoon, got some of the sauce and lifted the utensil to Daisuke’s mouth. The figure skater raised an eyebrow at his boyfriend, but tried the sauce anyway. Daisuke blinked in surprise at the taste, making Haru smile big.

“Good, right? It’s my mom’s recipe,” Daisuke nodded and took the spoon from Haru, looking like he was going to steal more of the sauce.

“Hey, no, no, everything’s almost done. You can have more once it’s finished,” Daisuke frowned, which was him almost pouting, making Haru laugh. The hockey player pulled his boyfriend into a hug and kissed his forehead. Daisuke was adorable once you figured out how to read his facial expressions.

“Go be with your dad. Only a little bit more,”

XXXX

True to his word, dinner was soon finished and Haru carried the pot to the dining table. He saw more people were now in the apartment; Suzue was standing with Mahoro next to the table while Coach Kiyomizu was on the couch, talking with Daisuke and his father. Though now, Shigemaru was staring at Haru. The hockey player almost flinched away from narrowed dark blue eyes, but he thought that maybe the man was like Daisuke, who looked one way but was different than how people thought of him. Haru smiled.

“Dinner’s ready,” The girls took the seats they were standing by and waited for Coach Kiyomizu and the other two Kambes to join them. Once Shigemaru was close to Haru, the hockey player held out his hand.

“Haru Katou, Mister Kambe. It’s nice to meet you,” Shigemaru looked Haru over and took his hand, giving the hockey player a firm handshake. 

“Please, just Shigemaru. It’s nice to finally meet you too,”

XXXX

During dinner, Shigemaru asked Haru about his life to get to know him. By the time everyone was finishing up, Daisuke’s father was telling Haru some stories about a young Daisuke, much to the hockey player’s joy. Daisuke tried to look annoyed, but you could tell he was actually happy.

Dinner was cleared away and Haru and Suzue brought out the cake. There was a smile on Daisuke’s face as he looked at everyone singing him a happy birthday. The cake was cut and pieces handed out. But after only eating half a piece, Daisuke disappeared out onto the apartment’s balcony. Haru looked to Suzue and Shigemaru, they both nodded, telling him it was okay to go after his boyfriend.

Daisuke didn’t turn at the sound of the balcony door sliding open and shut. But he did turn his head some when Haru ran a hand across his shoulders and then gave the figure skater a short hug.

“You okay?” Daisuke nodded his head.

“I used to not like my birthday,” Haru froze slightly and waited for Daisuke to continue.

“Mother was gone, I was distant to Father and Grandmother was just too controlling. Suzue did her best but it took a long while for me to like it again,” Haru took Daisuke’s hand and squeezed lightly. Daisuke gave him a small, thankful smile.

“Seeing you and Father getting along is really nice. It makes me wish you could have met Mother,” Haru smiled, touched.

“Bet she’d have the good stories about your first years on the ice,” Daisuke smacked him on the shoulder, making Haru laugh.

“But I wish I could have met her too,” Daisuke smiled at that and kissed Haru on the cheek. The figure skater started to walk towards the balcony door but Haru stayed still, tugging on their joined hands. Daisuke turned back to him with a raised eyebrow, but let his boyfriend pull him into a real kiss.

“Happy Birthday, Daisuke,”