Chapter Text
A week has passed since the peach flowers first bloomed, and they're thriving. Chuuya checks on them everyday, he practically babies them, to which Dazia finds adorable.
There was a day where they began to wilt, and Chuuya rushed to aid. He literally put plant feed into the water for more nutrition to the blossoms. It was humorous to Dazai, considering the tree was very capable of growing blossom branches again.
In honesty, they both knew that the branches would not survive. They are not an actual flower, and would not survive like one.. yet you'd never hear either of them admit it. Dazai would stay silent for Chuuyas sake, and Chuuya wouldnt admit it simply because he doesn't want to. He loves these flowers, likely valuing them more than his old plants.
That night, Chuuya fell asleep early. Dazai didn't say a word, but he assumed it was so that Chuuya could check on the dear plant early tomorrow. He was right.
Upon waking up, Chuuya got out of bed. He was careful not to wake Dazai, as this was one of the rare days the brunette slept in longer. Chuuya treaded to the living room while avoiding any creaking floor boards. Dazais penthouse is beautiful, but there is the odd spot that'll creak. Chuuya has the layout of the floor memorized, and knows where to avoid when trying to be sneaky.
When the redhead reached the living room, he lit up with a smile. Had Dazai been awake, Chuuya may have even let out a laugh of happiness. The wilting blossoms of yesterday had bee restored completely. Perhaps it was a matter of Chuuyas love for the plant, but it was entirely healthy again. Once it fully processed in his head, Chuuya felt tears fill his eyes.
This is the first plant that the mafiaso has ever been able to take care of, and nothing made him happier.
Just as he was relaxing from the small happiness high, Dazais tired arms wrapped around him. The shorter jumped, looking over his shoulder.
"When did you get up?"
"The bed is cold without you, slug"
Chuuya rolled his eyes. He can't even argue with the stupid nickname right now because Dazais too cute. His hairs messier than usual, fluffier aswell. The man looks like some sleepy kitten, leaning on his boyfriend for support just to stay awake. Honestly, it was a calming sight. Dazai looks tired, but worryless and genuinely happy.
"Sorry, but look.. they're alive again"
Dazai opened his eyes more, enough to see the flowers. As if a switch was flipped, he woke up fully. Standing up straight, Dazai broke into a smile.
"The blossoms! They're alive!!"
"Yeah!!"
"Hah! That's amazing!"
Chuuya smiled proudly, and Dazai ruffled the fluffy red hair. It honestly impressed him to see the blossoms still alive. In hindsight, Dazai wondered if he should've just gotten fake blossoms.. he could tell Chuuya they're real, and watch his boyfriend be overjoyed about the plant he didn't kill. A perfect plan, yet Dazai would feel too badly.. and he probably couldn't hold back laughter if Chuuya ever watered a goddamn fake plant.
"Chuuya, do we have plans today?"
Dazai knew the answer was no. He planned nothing for today because today is very important.. the ring in his jacket pocket says enough as is.
Though, in all honesty, its nothing special. It crossed Dazais mind to just get a regular silver men's ring.. then he thought of a more feminine ring, because atleast then he could get a gemstone on it. The perfect ideal ring would have a sapphire in the middle, one that matched Chuuyas eyes.
After much debate with himself, he opted on neither. Dazai would spend millions of dollars if it meant he could have the perfect ring for Chuuya, but truthfully, he knows his partner too well. Chuuya was never one for the stereotypical wedding shit. He never wanted some overly fancy ring, he didn't even want a white wedding. Dazai didn't really either, but hed go with it if Chuuya wanted to.
What Chuuya would want, is nothing near expensive. A handmade ring, with a raw cut stone of choice. Something simple, pretty, and different from a "wedding ring". So that's what Dazai did. A handmade silver ring, with a raw cut crystal. He wasn't sure what kind of stone it was, but it matched Chuuyas eyes, so it didn't matter. To top it, Dazai got a simple silver men's wedding ring aswell. This way, he has both. The crystal ring will be the engagement ring, the men's one will be the wedding ring.
Alongside a foolproof plan.
The plan is to take Chuuya on a "meaningless" date, to fill up an "empty" day. He'll take out the ring when the other least expects it, and just like that.. he'll be down on one knee. What could go wrong?
"I don't believe so, why?"
"hm..care for a latte?"
"I'd love one"
Dazai nodded, knowing damn well Chuuya would never refuse a latte. Plus, it's been awhile since they've seen that one barista. Dazai still has to thank her for giving him his first major lead.
"Okay, let's go"
Neither of them are dressed in proper attire. Both wearing pajama pants and loose t-shirts, but it didn't matter. Today was a Saturday anyway, and weekends are for being lazy. Chuuya nodded, taking Dazais hand as they walked towards the door.
"ugh.. gross"
Dazai tilted his head, confused about Chuuyas words.
"We need socks for shoes"
"Oh, right"
Dazai let out a little laugh as Chuuya ran back to the bedroom to get the two of them a pair of socks. It's humorous how quickly they got out of bed, not even getting dressed or anything. The redhead came back soon after he left, throwing a pair of socks at the waiting Dazai.
"HEY-"
"Catch!"
"You could've said that before throwing them.."
"Or I could've whipped 'em at cha"
"...Nevermind"
"Uh huh"
Dazai shook his head, putting his socks and shoes on as Chuuya followed suit. Chuuya then opened the door, walking outside. Dazai followed him, making sure to grab is jacket quickly beforehand. It's a nice day outside, very hot, but he needs that little velvet box. It may be too soon to propose, since they only just got back together.. but they were together for years beforehand. If not now, then when?
Walking up to Chuuya, Dazai tossed his jacket over his arm, carrying it as they walked together. It isnt a long walk, but it sure is a nice one. The sunlight wasn't too bright, and the breeze eliminated the overwhelming heat. Chuuyas hair blew behind him, and Dazai saw the way the redhead smiled from the feeling. Dazais never had particularly long hair, so he doesn't really know the feeling, but he can guess. Any gust of wind blowing at you head on is always therapeutic.
Not even to mention the atmosphere. It was early enough that the streets weren't busy, but the birds sang lullabies to replace the silence. It was indeed, a beautiful day, and a perfect day for Dazais plan.
"Are you even listening to me?"
"Wh- oh. Sorry, I got distracted. What did you say?"
"I was talking about the peach flowers"
"What's with em?"
"The biggest one never recovered. I didn't notice til we were leaving, but the prettiest flower fell right off. It's beside the vase"
"Oh.. im sorry Chuuya"
"Don't be, it's just odd.."
"How so? It isnt blooming season anymore"
"All of the flowers are okay except for that one.."
"The one that was on top?"
"Mhm"
"How peculiar.."
Dazai shook his head as he got the chills. It's very odd indeed, especially because out of all the flowers, that was the one that represented soukoku the most. It was the first to bloom, the brightest, biggest, and prettiest. It was Chuuyas favourite blossom, and Dazais aswell. Had it stayed on the tree, it would've had the richest fruit.
"Perhaps it was just older than the rest"
"That just doesn't add up"
"I know.."
"Whatever.."
"For better news, we're here"
Chuuya looks up from the sidewalk he watched during their walk, just as Dazai opens the door. The bell chimed it's familiar tune, and sure enough, their favourite barista was there. She gasped as she waved, giving a friendly smile as always.
'Dazai! You're back! And Chuuya!! I missed you two, it's been awhile"
"Sorry sorry, but yes"
"Hey, we missed you too"
"Mhm!"
The lady smiles, looking down as she suppresses a happy giggle. These two specific customers are her favourite. They talk as friends and always leave an overly generous tip.
'The usual?'
"You know it"
'Two caramel lattes.. coming right up'
The couple nodded, and Chuuya went over to his usual seat at the table booth near the window. The sunlight wasn't on his face this time, so no familiar picture, but regardless, he was beautiful as ever in Dazais eyes. When the drinks were ready, Dazai took them gratefully.
'Oh and- sorry to be nosey, but how did things go after I gave you the bag?'
"Messily, very.. very messily.. but the agency dealt with it, and Chuuyas okay now"
'Oh wow.. im glad things worked out'
"Me too.. thank you, by the way"
'Of course!'
Dazai nods, dismissing himself from the conversation as he walks back to their table. He doesn't want to talk about what happened. The bruises on Chuuyas face have almost finished healing, and his stomach was.. well.. getting there. The progress is helping Dazai keep the situation out of his mind, so he'd rather not bring it up.
Setting the drinks down, Dazai sits down beside Chuuya. He'd usually sit in front, but he wants to be closer today. Chuuya smiles, sipping his drink with a slight hiss from the temperature.
"Thank you"
"Anytime chibi, you know I love you"
"I love you too"
Dazai shouldve savored those words when he could. Thinking back now, he feels like took it for granted. To ensure he didn't do it again, Dazai smiles, taking out his phone as he goes to snapchat. He turns the camera so it captures the two together, and Chuuya tilts his head at Dazai. The redheads eyes quickly go to the camera, ready for a selfie. Instead of taking the photo, Dazai begins to record, throwing the other one off.
"I love you, Chuuya"
Chuuya glances at Dazai, and a warm, fond smile forms. One with much more admiration than usual.
"I love you more"
"Not a chance"
"Then.. I love you most"
Dazais smile was way too big, but he didn't try to hide it. Chuuya leaned his head on Dazais shoulder, looking back at the camera now. Something about this was too sweet to him. The video ended, and Chuuya didn't move. He adores the fact that Dazais wants to savor this.
"Give me your phone"
"Why?"
"Just do it"
Dazai stares for a minute but obliges anyway. The cutest part is that Dazai used snapchat. He hates using social media, except for these times. The video will be safe even if his phone breaks, and he'll get yearly reminders of the video. That's why he did it, and Chuuya knows that. So this time, he also opts for snapchat. Though, he only turns the camera on himself. The redhead begins recording, and fumbles the phone slightly. When he catches it and steadies the view, the two of them share a slight laugh over his clumsiness. On video, Dazais distant "what are you doing?" can be heard, but Chuuya doesn't reply. He only smiles at the video.
"I love you.. and forever, I will"
Dazai freezes, even his mind goes blank. Chuuya saves the video, handing the phone back. Oh how sweet it was. Chuuyas such a cold person, he is far from romantic in this way. It isnt his thing, and Dazai always assumed he'd find it icky. Yet now.. here he is, saying he'd love Dazai for eternity. It made the brunettes heart keen.
"Thank you"
"Tch"
"I love you"
"I know"
Dazai smiles once again, and Chuuya goes back to leaning his head on his lovers shoulder. To this, Dazai leans back into the booth seat more.
The two stayed lile this for a little. They had closed their eyes now, and were simply basking in eachothers presence. All while unknowingly having their photo taken by the barista. One time, Dazai asked her to get any good candids that she could for him to print, and she never fails. It's a perfect photo, the two just sort of leaning on eachother, relaxing. Its a sweet sight, and the lady mentally notes to show Dazai later.
After a few minutes, Chuuya opens his eyes, sitting up to drink his now cooling latte. Dazai follows suit, still admiring his boyfriend.
"You're beautiful"
"Hah, excuse me?"
"You heard me, you're beautiful"
"Drink your fucking latte"
"Can I not love my boyfriend??"
"Can you shut the fuck up for five minutes?"
"So rude.."
Dazai puts on an overdramatic pout, which only makes Chuuya roll his eyes in annoyance. He focuses back on finishing his latte, and Dazai slowly sips his.
"Oh, and Chuuya.."
"Oh god, what now?"
"I want to talk to you once we leave"
"Oh..?"
"No! Don't worry, it's nothing bad.."
"Erm, okay.. should we go now?"
"I'm not finished my drink"
"Its in a to-go cup"
"Oh yeah!"
Dazai smiles as he realizes that Chuuyas right. The latter, of course, stares in slight concern. How can someone be a certified genius while being so utterly stupid at the same time? It's mind boggling. The redhead shakes his head, standing up as he downs the rest of his drink. He then throws the cup out. Dazai stands up, rushing over to the counter.
"Damnit Dazai- let me pay this time!"
"You're on work leave!"
"So are you!!"
"Well- you're.. you're injured! I'm not!"
"Don't hold your breath on that-"
Dazai shrieks as he quickly pays, making the barista laugh. As Chuuya comes up to them, Dazai runs out the door. The shorter one playfully curses under his breath, following Dazai soon after.
He chased the bandage waster across a couple streets, only stopping when Dazai stopped running. They were now at the town square, standing in front of a beautiful wishing fountain. During new years events, this is where the fortunes are held. Last year, the two did their new year's fortunes together, as a date.
"Ch-chuuchuu.. you got lots of stamina, for a slug"
"I don't even have a good comeback for that this time"
"Aheh~"
Chuuya wiped his face with his sleeve as he caught his breath, and Dazai laughed between his panting. When the two had caught their breaths, Dazai stood up a bit straighter.
"Alright mackerel, hit me with it. What did you wanna talk about?"
Dazai nods, and takes a few steps closer to Chuuya. He had put his jacket on halfway through running, which Chuuya figured was just to avoid carrying anything. The brunette smiles, letting out a nervous laugh as he reaches into his pocket.
"Well Chuuya, you see i-.."
He looks to the ground nervously, pulling out the box. A quiet noise caught his full attention right as he looked back at Chuuya. It was an all-too familiar sound.. that of a silenced gunshot.
In that very moment, the world stopped spinning.
The brunette stood still, paralyzed as Chuuyas body fell. The bullet hole in the mafiasos head was enough to haunt Dazai forever.
He couldn't cry, he couldn't move.. he couldn't even comprehend it. It was all happening too quickly. Time stopped moving. It was just him, and the body that laid before him. The body that was full of life just a second ago..
What.. the fuck.
The voice of the russian clown echoed in one ear and out the other, yet Dazai didnt understand a word that was said. Dazai was unable to take his eyes off of Chuuya. He couldn't even breathe. His chest restricted tightly, feeling like someone had tied his lungs into knots, and now he was to die.
'Only the dealer can decide if aces are high or low.. and you were merely a player at the table'
Dazais heart was shattered, but it now became a physical pain. It was unbearable, like shrapnel exploding directly in the heart.
"Y-you-"
Dazai opened his mouth to speak, but nothing else came out. He remained paralyzed, breathing stuttering as the waterfall of tears streamed his face.
Nikolai hummed, stepping up to Dazai. He showed the brunette a playing card, to which Dazai didn't touch. He assumed thay Nikolai wanted him to take it, but still, he couldn't move.
The russian then flipped the card around, revealing it to be the Ace of Spades.
'Blood for blood, Dazai-san.'