There Comes a Time

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Atobe rose early to run. He always did. Just as he knew Tezuka habitually did as well. It was one of the things that he knew they shared as true competitors. A fit mind and body was necessary for any athlete. Early morning air cleared the mind. Atobe finished his run, but had not seen Tezuka at all on the way, and he worried about whether or not the trick he had pulled on his fellow captain had any dire consequences. He truly hoped there had been no bad fights or real upset last night. As the diva entered the hotel lobby he asked if Tezuka had been downstairs yet, and the front desk said no he hadn’t. Handsome curved lips pursed as he thought that Tezuka would be cranky if he did not get in his morning work out. A cranky Tezuka on vacation was not a thing he wanted, so Atobe made the decision to go wake the stoic beauty up himself. The Seigaku boys were only a few doors down from Ore-sama himself, so it wasn’t out of his way. When he arrived at Tezuka’s door, he knocked several times and waited, getting no answer. The diva sighed as he whipped out his cell phone and dialed the room’s number, listening as it rang inside. Finally he heard the deep sleepy voice answer, “Moshi, Moshi. Tezuka.” “Aaah. Sleeping beauty has missed his morning run.” A moment of silence was followed by “Atobe? Where are you?” “I am outside your door, Tezuka. Now get dressed and let me in.” “Hai.” Scant seconds later the door opened, and a semi-naked Tezuka opened the door, a large bath towel wrapped around his hips as he turned and walked back into his room. Atobe’s eyes took in the graceful captain’s form as he walked away, his eyes rounded as he saw the right wrist trailing a long black tether. Grey eyes took in the bed and the other tie still attached to the post. Good god! Was that electrical tape!? No its silk. Someone had tied him with silk. Nice touch. Reacting quickly Atobe reached forward and fisted the black sash that trailed Tezuka’s wrist, jerking back on it, and causing it to pull Tezuka’s arm unexpectedly. Tezuka turned around in surprise, his eyes automatically dropping to the tie that was still attached to him. Atobe watched as a faint flush rose to Tezuka’s finely chiseled cheekbones. Atobe gracefully fanned opened his fingers as he allowed the silk to slide thru them to the floor, a large smile crossing his handsome features. “You had a long night, Na…Tezuka? I’m envious.”

Tezuka’s placid face leveled hazel eyes at his visitor, “Aah.” Tezuka’s nimble fingers quickly untied the knot, his years of experience as a climber made short work of it. He unwound the material and allowed it to drop to the floor. Atobe’s eyebrows rose, “Which one was it? I admit I am in awe of whoever was able to tie you down.” Tezuka completely avoided the question, “What brings you here this morning? Have you run already?” Atobe nodded, not missing the avoidance. “Aah. I missed you out running, and I know how you hate to miss your morning workout. Have breakfast with me after you shower. We are all going cave hunting today, volleyball is planned for tomorrow if you’d like to play.” Tezuka nodded, he liked caving. In fact, he liked anything nature-oriented. “I will be down in a moment, Atobe. Thank you for waking me, I can never seem to regain my equilibrium if I oversleep.” Atobe turned and left closing the door behind him. Tezuka took a quick shower. He noticed how his body had been completely clean when he awoke. They must have done that after he passed out. The memories of the night before came crashing back, all of it. The gentle care they took with him, the pleasure, the orgasms - all 3. Of Ryoma going down on him, and Fuji riding him, he moaned softly and unbelievably he started to harden in the shower. He chuckled to himself marveling at how he could even walk given what they had done to him, much less get hard again. He wondered briefly at what they would come up with tonight. Whatever it was, he would not be merely a passenger this time. After he toweled off and dressed, he went into Ryoma’s room, and kissed the sleepy mouth, saying he’d see him later after breakfast. Ryoma surprised him by smiling beautifully, kissing him again and going back to bed like a sleepy kitten. Tezuka sighed, Sometimes it was so easy to please the ones who loved you. He would try to remember that. He crossed into Fuji’s room, brushed the honey brown hair away from the angelic face and kissed him too. Blue eyes found his, “Tezuka?” Firm lips curved, “I am going down for breakfast and workout. There is caving today if you and Ryoma want to come.” Fuji smiled, “You were amazing last night, buchou.” Tezuka kissed him as he shook his head, “It was you who truly amazed.” He turned and left as Fuji sank back down into sleep with a smile on his face.

Atobe sat at a large elegant table loaded with every kind of breakfast item and fruit imaginable. A large bowl of cranberries waited by the empty place setting. Kabaji sat next to him. Sharp eyes cut to the doorway as Tezuka entered the dining area. Suddenly Atobe’s graceful eyebrows drew up in question, and his head cocked to one side, as he listened intently. “Do you suddenly hear western style Blues music, Kabaji?” Kabaji responded, “Ois!” Where was that guitar coming from? He shrugged his shoulders. “Odd.” Inui noticed his captain enter the dining area. It was early for everyone else, but it was late for Tezuka. “How was your morning run, Buchou?” Inui asked. Tezuka answered, “I have not run yet, Inui. I was late rising.” Inui’s eyebrows drew together. Tezuka late to rise? That was good data. Inui walked away to retrieve his notebook.

Tezuka sat at the table, reaching unfailingly for the cranberries, just as Atobe knew he would. Atobe wordlessly handed him the tea that he knew Tezuka would go for next, before tackling any sort of breakfast. “Thank you, Atobe.” Atobe nodded and sighed. It was taxing not having servants to hand items to your breakfast companions, but someone had to do it, and the diva had left the vast majority of his servants at home for this trip. Still, to his credit, Atobe handled it without complaint. The conversation was pleasant as Tezuka ate his breakfast. He was ravenous this morning. Atobe chuckled to himself at Tezuka’s appetite. He alone knew why. They studiously avoided any mention of the upcoming competition. The two captains had become friends, but they were still unquestionably rivals. Atobe was also kind enough not to bring up Tezuka’s sexual escapades of the night before, although curiosity was absolutely killing him. Somehow he could not picture Tezuka as uke, even tied up. He could tease the reserved Tezuka in private, but there were certain things gentlemen didn’t discuss openly in public. It simply was just not ‘done’. Instead they turned to who was going on the caving trip today. Atobe said, “Ore-sama, of course. Oshitari, Mukahi, Shishido and Ohtori. The rest of Hyotei would prefer to sun themselves like lizards on the sand.” Tezuka’s lips curved slightly. “If I had to place a wager on who would come today from Seigaku, I would say Eiji, Oishi, Inui, Fuji and Echizen. I don’t see the others as wanting to be underground for such a lengthy period of time.” Hazel eyes turned to Atobe, “Have you been caving before Atobe? I would not have thought you would like such an activity.” Atobe’s eyebrows raised, “Why would you think that, Tezuka?” Tezuka’s mind went over how dirty and wet one could get while caving, as well as the instances when being underground more closely resembled climbing a cliff. He finally ditched any pretense of courtesy, “I thought it would be too dirty an activity for you.” Atobe smiled, “I CAN shower, Tezuka.” Tezuka nodded and smiled to himself. He did note that Atobe never answered his question. He decided to let it lie. He asked if the equipment they’d need was available, and Atobe added that of course it was, they were taking a well plotted course, their caving route had already been filed with authorities in case of any problems. They agreed upon a time to meet, and Tezuka said he was going to hit the treadmill for a short time to work out the kinks. Atobe said with a secret smile, “I’ll bet, Tezuka.” The hazel eyes never registered a reaction as he turned to take his leave.

A couple of hours later found all the boys from both teams with headsets and lights winding their way thru impossibly beautiful caverns with stalactites and stalagmites, small fluorescent pools, and the ever present sound of dripping water. The feeling of the immense weight of the world above them was not wasted on anyone. Tezuka and Atobe both were outfitted with climbing ropes, carabineers, stakes, and harnesses, etc as well. Tezuka wore the equipment as if he wore nothing, as he was so used to the gear from years of climbing. He was surprised at how easily Atobe wore the cumbersome gear as well. Echizen had been caving in the United States before, in a place called Bat Cave, but he was still awed by this place’s incredible scenery. Fuji and the rest of Seigaku had never been caving, while only Oshitari had from Hyotei. The astonished faces gazed at the stone around them. It was always a pleasure for Tezuka to see the expressions on people’s faces as they first laid eyes on one of nature’s wonders. Atobe studied his fellow captain knowing exactly what he was thinking, and feeling the same way. As the group descended along the carefully marked out path, the spaces became tighter, scary amounts of crawling between tight fitting rocks were soon common place. The boys could all feel the immensity of the mountains pressing down upon them from above.

Clothing quickly became dirty, wet and uncomfortable. At one point the group had to enter a milky pool of water, and hold their breath to swim into an underwater portal. The way was clearly marked, and Tezuka went first, calm and strong as ever, even in this deep remote place in the world. After scouting out the entrance, he came back, surfacing with his hair plastered down onto his head, reporting that indeed, the entrance was only a few feet down, and a very short run. No one should have trouble crossing it. The group held up surprisingly well. There is always some sort of panic that ensues when first time explorers are faced with such strange surroundings and challenges. But while the experienced members could see some trepidation on their companion’s faces, none gave in to it, and they forged ahead bravely.

At 3 hours into the trek, and about ¾ of the way thru, they came out onto a ledge. A large crack in the earth’s crust echoed out below them in a fathomless black drop to nowhere. The closest ledge was at least 75 feet away. The huge chasm stretched left and right for miles. Any sound that was made echoed on and on. The sound of dripping water continued. The only way to cross the abyss was a set of lines that had been anchored by stakes across the fissure. One line had a wheeled pulley secured to it, for attachment of a harness. The other was a secondary line. The crosser would have to put on a harness, clip themselves to the pulley and pull themselves across the yawing stretch of blackness. A scary process indeed. Before they were allowed to go across, Tezuka wanted to check out the safety of the lines. He slipped expertly into his own harness, while Atobe did the same. Tezuka pulled experimentally on the stakes holding the lines into the rock walls, his eyes examining the age and sturdiness of the set up. Tezuka decided he would cross first, Atobe would bring up the rear in case of trouble, each boy would go across individually, sending the harness back via tether for the next crosser. Tezuka watched as Atobe turned without a word, and started to secure additional stakes into the wall, quickly fastening carabineers and lines to it. He obviously did not trust the lines that were already there and wanted a set of their own. Tezuka raised his eyebrows knowing now for certain that Atobe had either done this before or had studied up on it extensively. He could not be sure which, but he was glad of Atobe’s presence. Another scan of the rest of his companion’s faces revealed more anxiety than was there previously on the dirty faces, but they were all still with him. Not one had said they wanted to go back. That was really the only option they had should someone decide to balk. Go all the way back, or push thru.

Tezuka sat into the harness, then confidently pushed himself backwards out over the black drop, pulling effortlessly across with a surprising amount of grace. When he reached the other side, he pulled on the tether that Atobe had given him from the newly attached line and wall fixtures, and hammered in a set of his own on the adjoining wall for safety’s sake. He quickly attached the line, securing it with complicated knot work. When he was done, he signaled for the first crosser to come ahead. It was Echizen. The rookie listened as Atobe gave him final instructions, and he confidently swung out over the abyss. Echizen quickly pulled himself across making short work of it. Tezuka smiled in satisfaction and some small pride as he pulled the rookie up to the ledge. Echizen grinned hugely back at him. They removed the harness, and Oshitari pulled it back across for the next one in line. Fuji was next. He was more then a little scared, but he didn’t want anyone to see it, least of all Tezuka. He took a deep breath and did his best. At about 2/3 of the way across, the small wheel on the pulley got stuck momentarily. Tezuka and Atobe both shouted instructions at him, as well as encouragement. Following their directions, and biting back rising fear, he soon got the thing moving again, emerging onto the other side with Tezuka and Echizen pulling him to safety. Tezuka was so relieved, he wanted to kiss the tensai right there, but made a mental note instead to save that one for later. Eiji put on the harness and quickly accomplished the task, wide sapphire eyes huge and happy at the incredible experience, he called to Oishi to hurry up. Ohtori was next, nimbly crossing without a single hesitation. One followed the other across, Inui more then a little nervous, to the laughter and teasing of everyone.

Oshitari pulled on his harness, and swung out into the darkness. Other then Atobe, he was the only one left. When he was almost halfway across it became apparent that there was a problem. Oshitari’s heavier build put more strain on the aging wheel gear then the smaller team members had. The only one who was as muscular in the group as Oshitari was, was Tezuka. The wheel from the pulley unexpectedly became stuck, and then a loud snapping was heard, echoing throughout the cavern. Everyone gasped. Oshitari slowly looked up cautiously at the pulley system without moving a muscle. Atobe and Tezuka’s eyes widened, understanding instantly that no snapping sound was ever good where climbing equipment was concerned. “Oshitari! What is it? What happened?” The only saving grace was Oshitari’s obvious experience and cool headedness. He did not panic, he knew that jerking movements would only make things worse. The handsome Hyotei tensai said calmly, “The wheel housing has snapped. Atobe, I’m in trouble.” Another snapping sound was heard and Oshitari dropped down a few inches as the wheel started to separate from the pulley. The sparkling steel reflected the group’s headset lights as it bowed and bent out. Tezuka and Atobe gasped. He's going to Fall! Tezuka shouted, “Hold on!” With lightning speed born of years of practice, Tezuka grabbed the smaller pulley system hanging from his gear, fitted it with a carbineer, and secured it before attaching a simple carbineer for himself to the secondary line that he and Atobe had made and clipped it to his harness. Without a second thought for his own safety, Tezuka moved into action swinging his body back out over the abyss with his back to Oshitari, he grabbed the line and pulled. Dragging himself across was harder this time with only a steel hook and no pulley, but the strong captain covered ground quickly. The whole group panicked. Eyes wide with terror, they held their breath in silence as they watched Tezuka make his way to the stranded violinist.

As Tezuka reached him the housing snapped, and Oshitari started to fall. The boys on the ledge screamed. Oshitari reached up in the nick of time and grabbed the line as the pulley fell away, leaving him hanging by only a few fingers, and he was slipping fast. Dangling out over the darkness, Tezuka pulled his feet up and wrapped his ankles around the support line his harness was suspended from, in a feat of gymnastic proportions he dropped his upper body upside down to face Oshitari, grabbing his free hand and forearm, the weight of the tensai making him groan with the strain. Only a moment later, Tezuka was surprised to see an upside down Atobe on the other side of Oshitari, suspended in his harness from the other line, feet upended and wrapped around the line just as Tezuka was. Atobe reached out, “Grab my hand, Oshitari. Reach up!” Oshitari stared at his captain wordlessly for a moment in sheer terror. He looked as if he would say he couldn’t do it, but the stern angry look on Atobe’s face and his command gave him the shove he needed. “Move!” Trusting in Tezuka completely to hold his weight, Oshitari let go of the line and swung his free arm up to Atobe, grunting loudly with the effort. All the boys on the ledge looked on in horror as Oshitari hung out over the emptiness with each inverted captain holding an arm. Echizen and Fuji hugged each other in terror. Oh my god, they are going to die. Oh please god, don’t let them die. Atobe looked at Tezuka, his face straining from the effort. “Okay I’ve got him.” Tezuka nodded, “Oshitari, when I let go, I need you to grab the line again, and pull up a little. I have to attach this pulley to your harness, but I need your help.” Oshitari’s eyes went rounder still, the pupils dilating. “Let go?” Tezuka’s upside down hazel eyes cut him, “We’re trying to save your life. Just grab the line and pull up. On my count.” Tezuka pulled Oshitari’s arm up as high as he could, helping him to grasp the line, then he readied the pulley, “Alright. Three, two, one….pull!” Oshitari and Atobe pulled upwards, bringing his harness high enough, while Tezuka strained to fasten the new pulley to the line. Atobe screamed, “Hurry Tezuka!” The pulley fastened into place with a satisfying ‘click’. Their eyes met hopefully thru the blackness, and Atobe slowly let Oshitari’s weight down into the harness in the newly attached pulley system. It held.

Both captains relaxed with an explosive sigh of relief, hanging upside down in the darkness. The cavern erupted into loud cheers and clapping. Breathing heavily and sweating, they righted themselves, and started to pull back towards the ledge. Atobe followed in their wake. They were greeted with hugs and back clapping when all 3 finally pulled themselves onto the outcropping on the other side. None were more meaningful then Oshitari’s teary eyed hug of Atobe and Tezuka. Tezuka’s eyes studied Atobe’s, “Atobe. Is there anything you can’t do well?” Atobe smiled at the implied compliment. “I could ask you the same question, Tezuka. I am sure there must be something I am not good at, however, Ore-sama has yet to find it.” Atobe clasped Tezuka in a hug, as a cover up for the catch in his voice as his lips said into Tezuka’s ear, “Thank you for saving my friend and team mate.” Tezuka clapped his back gently, “You would have done the same, I am sure of it.” Atobe nodded as their eyes met. Both captains realized the entire group was focused on them, with sappy smiles plastered on their faces. Tezuka abruptly cleared his throat, while Atobe fluffed his hair. Tezuka walked to the front of the group and led them thru the opening into the next cavern.

The next hours were infinitely more tense for the cavers because of the harrowing experience. But soon the tight crawl spaces widened, and the rocky spires again started to appear out of the darkness. Eventually large spaces and halls replaced tight ledges, and the exit to the caves loomed before them. The dimming daylight seemed very strong to the deprived eyes. The group of exhausted men pulled themselves out of the earth, thankful to be above ground once again. The walk back to the hotel was sweet in its simplicity. Atobe told the concierge in the hotel about the harness malfunction, so that the proper rangers could fix the problem for the next bunch of explorers. Everyone parted to grab showers, then met around the pool for dinner. During the brief time they were alone in their rooms, Ryoma and Syuusuke both hugged Tezuka tightly, oblivious to the dirt and sweat. The words rushing from them about how scared they were for his, Atobe’s and Oshitari’s safety, and then about the incredible pride they felt when the two captains had rescued the doomed tensai. Tezuka hugged them back, his face tolerant of the rush of words and emotion, his eyes soft. Tezuka kissed them both quickly and pushed them off to shower as he went to do the same.

After a huge meal by the pool, Shishido and Ohtori accompanied by Eiji and Oishi retold all the members of both teams about the adventures of the caving expedition, including a very well done reenactment - by all four - of Oshitari’s rescue, including Eiji hanging precariously upside down. Laughter went all around as he put on a stiff upside down look for Tezuka, and a diva-like inverted hair toss for Atobe. (Both captain’s frowning at the depictions of themselves.) When it was over, and Eiji was once again upright, Atobe rose and excused himself for the bathroom. When he passed Eiji, he shoved him gently backwards right into the pool. Shouts of laughter and applause followed. When Eiji emerged laughing and sputtering, he pulled Atobe into the pool after him. That was when all hell broke lose. Together Atobe and Eiji targeted members of their own teams until only Echizen and Tezuka remained. Tezuka blinked several times in sudden comprehension, “HHmmm?” At least 7 of them from both teams were bearing down on him, including Atobe. They would not have had the nerve to come after Tezuka if Atobe hadn’t been amongst them. Echizen tried to turn tail and run, but Fuji tackled him and dragged him into the pool assisted by Momoshiro, Tezuka however was having none of it. Hazel eyes narrowed in challenge, actually scaring some of his assailants off, but Atobe was dripping wet, and he certainly was not backing down. Tezuka suddenly feinted right and darted left, then made a terrific dive into the pool over the heads of those attacking him. If he was going into the pool fully dressed, at least it would be on his terms. When he emerged, it was to see Atobe laughing with his arms clutching his belly. Tezuka frowned at him as he dove down into the water to look for his glasses at the bottom of the pool. Everyone eventually climbed out to dry off and relax. Today had been a good day.

When it came time to retire for the night, no one complained or wanted to stay awake, they were all too exhausted. Fuji, Echizen and Tezuka rode up the elevator together the tensai and the rookie laughing about their wrestling match into the pool. Fuji still happily teasing that he was the one to get the rookie in. Tezuka watched them quietly, wondering if they would actually just want to go to sleep tonight, or if there would be a repeat performance of last night’s activities. The idea warmed Tezuka’s belly. He was certainly tired, and his bed called to him, but the alternative was appealing as well. Tezuka marveled once again over how well Fuji and Echizen seemed to be handling this odd situation. The stoic captain had been sure they would be fighting or arguing by now, but they weren’t showing any signs of that at all. He was grateful, and he was proud of how his two partners had handled themselves in the cave today.

They entered thru Tezuka’s doorway. Tezuka’s eyes followed them, knowing this was a sign that according to them the night was not over with yet. Tezuka crossed the sitting room and headed into the bedroom. He was not too surprised by the dual tackle that lifted him off his feet careening him onto the bed. Echizen grinned hugely. He had gotten the lucky end of the stick for a change, Tezuka’s body had fallen facing him slightly so he took advantage of it, turning Tezuka’s face to him and kissing his lips, Fuji had already pulled the collar of Tezuka’s tee shirt down slightly and his lips sought out the tender skin along the back of his neck. Tezuka shivered involuntarily as he was assaulted, his body quickly becoming used to the sexual attentions of his lovers. Between kisses Echizen raised his eyes to Fuji’s which were directly over Tezuka’s shoulder, not more then a few inches away, “Fuji-senpai. You made love to him last night, so I think he should be mine tonight. Go away.” Fuji chuckled, even while his fingers traced patterns over Tezuka’s back, “So you think I will just leave him to you Echizen?” His lips once again found the nape of Tezuka’s neck, his eyes smiling at Echizen. Tezuka shivered again. Echizen laughed, obviously not angry at all, but his eyes narrowed momentarily. “He has to decide between us eventually.” Suddenly he reached forward over Tezuka, and gave Fuji a gentle shove on the shoulder. The tensai had already been balancing on a thread, but the shove over did it and he let out a surprised yelp, as he found himself toppled unceremoniously from the bed to the floor. Tezuka turned around quickly to see Fuji’s feet in the air just before his butt impacted the rug. Hazel eyes widened. The comically surprised look on Fuji’s face made him chuckle. He reached out a hand to help the tensai, but Echizen pulled his face back to his questing lips. Echizen’s kisses were firm and demanding. Tezuka’s body started to respond, even as he sank into the kiss. He felt the silky tongue enter his mouth, teasing the tip of his own. Tezuka knew with certainty that Fuji would be back any moment, and he sighed as his opened mouth returned the kisses heatedly. Fuji blinked, a little startled to find himself on the floor, he sat there for a moment grinning. The nerve…Well….. I have had wonderful results so far when not playing by the rules. By giving options that were never thought to exist. Why should I stop now? “Oh, you asked for it,” he growled playfully as he pulled himself back up. Fuji pulled himself off the floor and got back onto the bed, but not behind Tezuka. He crawled on behind Echizen.

Echizen suddenly felt the strong hands on his shoulders pulling him up and away from Tezuka’s lips. He expected to land on the floor just as he had done to Fuji, however the tensai had something else in mind. Fuji pulled him quickly into a kneeling position. Large golden eyes turned huge and incredulous as Fuji’s soft lips covered his own. Echizen blinked several times, unsure of what to do, as Fuji’s mouth became more hot, pressing more persuasively. Ryoma finally leaned into the kiss, his eyes closing slowly, when suddenly he realized what was happening, What the--? Ryoma jerked back, but Fuji already had a tight grip. One slender hand fisted in his shirt, the other buried itself in the jet black hair, and Echizen couldn’t tear himself away from the warm lips. He pushed ineffectively against Fuji’s shoulders in an attempt to shove him away, even if…he knew he wouldn’t be able to, or on second thought, maybe he didn’t want to. Golden eyes gazed into blazing blue ones, then Echizen’s eyes slowly blinked shut as he allowed himself to descend into Fuji’s kiss. Tezuka’s eyes went wide, watching the two with disbelief, …. Syuusuke, now I see…..…you’re not jealous of Ryoma at all. Hazel eyes glowed with heat as he reached up with one hand, lightly touching Fuji’s hip as the tensai kissed Ryoma with feeling, Ryoma returned the kisses. Syuusuke…and Ryoma…. The hot thoughts made Tezuka’s head spin, and the clenching in his chest abruptly dropped down into his stomach and groin. Tezuka reached up with his other hand, combing his fingers into the hair that fell to Ryoma’s neck. They……..look beautiful together. Hot, greedy hazel eyes followed the kiss as it became more open and passionate. Fuji’s mouth teased and worked Echizen’s less experienced one, fully arousing his younger team mate, and earning a small moan for his efforts. Glimpses of bubblegum pink tongues appeared occasionally in the space between their lips and Tezuka could not contain how aroused he was becoming.

Fuji snuck a peek at Tezuka. Just as I suspected. He’s enjoying This. Hell, I’m enjoying this. Ryoma is so passionate and yet so innocent. In Fuji’s momentary distraction Ryoma managed to pull away from him, panting, aroused and flushed. Fuji smiled at Tezuka, Blue eyes flashing. “Ne, Tezuka? Did you like that? He is sexy, isn’t he? I know……because he looks that way when I watch him kiss you.” Fuji pulled Ryoma back to him, one fine fingered hand began grazing a path down the front of Ryoma’s body to stroke him through his pants. Echizen’s eyes dilated and he gasped loudly at the unexpected contact. “I doubt you’ve ever seen him like this before, have you Tezuka?” Echizen jerked as Fuji rubbed his cock again thru his pants and he groaned. “Fuji-senpai - What are you--?” Fuji’s lips found his neck, suckling there and making Ryoma’s knees weak. Ryoma bit his lip, desperate not to moan loudly and sound as wanton as he felt. Ryoma’s hands were shaking badly and they lacked any power as he reached down to pry Fuji’s fingers away from his crotch, giving them too little strength to defend himself. The hands on him were just too strong, too confident and experienced. When Echizen caught a glance of Tezuka’s wide eyes on him watching them, the hazel swirls were hot and hungry, and it only made his breath come faster. He wanted to be with Tezuka and just the melting hungry look his captain was giving him made his stomach turn to fire. Fuji gently squeezed his erection causing Echizen to groan, and Tezuka to bite his lip, moaning slightly with the sight of it.

Tezuka’s body hardened as his mind raced, We could all be together, couldn’t we? I don’t need to be the center. a small voice spoke up in Tezuka’s head, as he watched Fuji’s attentions to the other. I could do this…I could be with them. Be with them both, couldn’t I? I care for them both…. Very much. Tezuka slowly sat up, and purposefully nudged Syuusuke’s mouth away from Ryoma, pulling the helplessly aroused boy in for his own kiss. “Kiss me, Ryoma… ” he commanded as his lips assaulted his younger team mate, one hand searched out Syuusuke, cupping Syuusuke’s butt. Tezuka’s mind spoke the words over and over again, Please understand, Ryoma. We…we’re all we have, the three of us. The 3 monsters of Seigaku. Please don’t make me have to choose. I care so much for you both. Tezuka finally voiced the thoughts out loud as his lips turned to find Syuusuke’s, kissing the tensai lovingly as well, while Tezuka’s fingers caressed Ryoma’s hair. Ryoma protested only slightly, “But Buchou,” Ryoma began to protest thru panting breaths, “this--?” He was cut off when Fuji’s hand tightened slightly around his cock, then rubbed over the length of him and cupped his balls, making him shudder. Fuji’s mouth lightly bit the nape of Ryoma’s neck, Ryoma’s eyes closed as he gasped, God - Fuji feels good--but this…? As Fuji’s hand caressed his aching cock, he groaned and rocked his hips in surrender, falling obediently into Tezuka’s waiting mouth.

“Much better, Ryoma,” Fuji encouraged, watching intently as Tezuka kissed the hot mouth, and Fuji rubbed the hardened member thru his pants, almost growling as Ryoma’s hips jerked in response to the touch. Fuji was willing to bet his life on it that no one had ever touched Echizen like this before. And Fuji decided he liked it very much. Fuji watched the hot kisses, and he whispered close to their ears, “God, you two look so hot.” He leaned in to play his lips over Tezuka’s ear, and he kissed his neck, his voice dropped to a heavy whisper. “You look amazing together, you know that Kunimitsu? It’s making me very hard.” Without taking his hand from Ryoma’s cock he pressed his hips up against Tezuka’s side as proof. Tezuka groaned into Echizen’s mouth in reaction, his arm coming up instinctively to wrap itself around Syuusuke’s hips, pressing his hardness more firmly against him. Tezuka took Ryoma's hand and placed it on his crotch. Ryoma whimpered. Tezuka was so hard, and he seemed so large to Echizen. The feelings were overwhelming. The gorgeous captain’s lips were hot and passionate, playing over his, and Ryoma couldn’t control his breathing. Fuji continued to kiss and nibble Tezuka’s ear as the captain kissed the rookie, the double sensations of that and Ryoma’s kisses were making him light headed. Tezuka moaned softly. Somehow, knowing that both of them were there with him, that they both loved him, and seemed to care about each other as well made Tezuka feel euphoric. He kissed Ryoma strongly, running strong fingers through the raven hair, feeling him shiver beneath his touch. When both were so excited that they could no longer breathe, Tezuka pulled away, meeting Ryoma’s eyes. “Ryoma….is this okay? The 3 of us?” he asked softly. Ryoma gazed deeply into Tezuka’s eyes, he noticed Fuji kissing Tezuka’s neck, then Tezuka’s eyes closed briefly when Fuji’s lips once again found his sensitive ear. Ryoma shivered again. It was so hot, Tezuka was so sexy. Fuji-senpai was sexy too. He blinked large bronze eyes as he watched.

“Oh, he loves it, Tezuka. Don’t let him lie to you.” Fuji interrupted before Ryoma could voice a response. He pressed his free hand against Tezuka’s chest, urging him to lean back away from the rookie. Fuji leaned in to Ryoma’s puffy well kissed lips, he found he liked kissing Ryoma. His innocence was a very heady thing indeed. Though he wouldn’t admit it to his team mate, at the moment, Fuji could not think of too many things sexier than Ryoma’s flushed, embarrassed and completely excited face. Ryoma shuddered. At first he tried to retreat but there was no room for breath or thought between their lips. He knew Fuji’s graceful bearing belied his strength. Ryoma’s body betrayed him, responding as soon as Fuji’s lips found his. He groaned when he felt the sure and elegant hands moving over his sides and back, searching out sensitive places. Ryoma soon found himself clinging weakly to Fuji’s shoulders as he leaned into him, his whole body growing hot and tight, as Tezuka watched them. Ryoma gasped quietly when he next was granted room to breathe. He felt their belly muscles rubbing against each other, as they each fought for breath. Tezuka watched with wide hazel eyes, a bit surprised by the slow surrender he could see in Ryoma’s expression and posture. Just seeing the pair like that…. Tezuka knew exactly how excited Fuji had become, he knew why as well. The gradual surrender of their team mate and his obvious inexperience was very hot. Tezuka interrupted them, pulling Ryoma’s mouth to him like a long coveted sweet, kissing him gently several times. Ryoma’s head swam. Fuji gently pried Tezuka’s lips away, and replaced them with his own, again kissing Ryoma senseless. Tezuka cleared his throat, “Syuusuke, you’re supposed to share…..” Fuji chuckled deep in his throat as he broke the kiss, enjoying the way that Ryoma almost wilted against him, his breath coming in ragged bursts, once their kiss had ended. Blue eyes seared as his found Tezuka’s, he thought, This is so unbelievably hot, us doing this to Ryoma. “Don’t ask for more than you can handle,” he warned. His lips found Tezuka’s. Tezuka was surprised to find that Fuji’s normally soft lips were fierce and passionate, his lover totally excited by this odd turn of events. As Fuji broke the kiss, he turned to look at Ryoma once more, “He wants us both, Tezuka. Perhaps we should oblige him.” Ryoma panted in complete arousal.

Tezuka laid down on the bed on his side, taking Ryoma with him. Tezuka returned Ryoma’s kisses eagerly. He was heating up quickly, already straining against his pants as he whispered murmurs into Ryoma’s mouth. Tezuka kissed Ryoma with growing urgency while Fuji hovered over them both, kissing Ryoma’s exposed ear and neck making him shudder and moan. Fuji’s nimble fingers diligently started removing the clothes from both of his team mates. Shoes and socks first, then he slipped his hands in between them as they kissed. He deftly undid Tezuka’s pants, and slid them off, Tezuka lifting his hips to assist in the process while knowingly keeping Ryoma fully occupied. Tezuka grasped the lower hem of Ryoma’s shirt, and lifted it up off of him, his eyes taking in the perfectly sculpted little body. Ryoma finally seemed to realize what Fuji was doing to him. Despite Ryoma’s protests he slipped his hands between the pair, swiftly undoing his pants. Fuji kissed his shoulder once, “Just relax,” he advised. “But Fuji-senpai.” Fuji stopped all movement, his hand cupped Ryoma’s cheek, and gently kissed him again, “Ryoma, its Syuusuke when we are like this.” Ryoma blinked large eyes at him. “Syuusuke…” he said softly. Fuji smiled again, and pulled Ryoma’s pants and underwear completely off, leaving his naked frame and his dripping erection flush against his captain’s body. The feeling of his skin against Tezuka’s made his breath at first catch in his throat, then start to pant fiercely, he closed his eyes against the onslaught of feelings. Tezuka smiled widely at Ryoma’s reactions.

Fuji asked Tezuka simply, “Where is it? The usual spot?” Tezuka’s eyes found his and nodded. Fuji disappeared for a scant moment as he went to fetch the lube. Fuji kicked off his shoes and socks as he went, and removed his shirt before climbing back on the bed to lay his length along Ryoma’s back, pressing himself closely to him, running his hands softly up and down Ryoma’s sides and back. Tezuka kissed Ryoma deeply as his hand trailed his knuckles down the front of his taut body, down over his ribcage, the flexing belly quivered as he slowly drew downwards to at long last wrap his fingers around the weeping cock. Ryoma moaned loudly unable to help himself and rocked his hips into Tezuka’s hand. Fuji snaked a hand around him from behind to graze a pert nipple and Ryoma actually let out a small cry. Fuji’s eyes smiled at Tezuka over Ryoma’s shoulder, “He is wonderfully sensitive. Pull him on top of you.” Tezuka obeyed, pulling Ryoma with him as he turned over, bracing the rookie on top of his chest. Fuji encouraged Ryoma to open his legs and straddle Tezuka’s hips. Tezuka continued to stroke his manhood lightly and kiss him. Time warped for Ryoma. He had never felt anything so amazing in his whole life. He never wanted to be separated from Tezuka ever again. He felt he could happily die this way. Ryoma felt soft fingertips on his back and sides as Syuusuke touched him, and he shivered in pleasure. Ryoma abruptly felt his butt cheeks spread gently but before he could protest, a hot tongue licked at his hole causing Ryoma to scream and arch up into the feeling. Ryoma’s legs shook, he was suddenly unable to hold his own weight up and he collapsed against Tezuka’s chest…. “Buchou….” He gasped. Firm lips kissed his cheek as the hot tongue continued to lap at his hole, he moaned as his insides turned into molten lava. “It’s Kunimitsu…..Ryoma.” Ryoma barely heard him as he panted with Fuji’s tongue creating the most amazing feelings inside him. Tezuka began stroking his cock softly again, careful not to let him come while Fuji slowly slipped a well lubricated finger into his body.

Ryoma’s eyes snapped open, and he clenched down immediately. Tezuka pulled his lips to him kissing gently. “Relax. Don’t clench up. Trust Syuusuke.” Ryoma knew already from last night - from watching Fuji with Tezuka, and teaching him what to do, just how good Fuji was. Ryoma breathed and allowed himself to relax and trust Syuusuke as his finger slowly moved around gently within him. It felt odd, but not bad at all as long as he didn’t fight it. Syuusuke moved his finger gently in and out, curving and searching subtly. Ryoma called out as Syuusuke found his pleasure spot. That was it. Now he knew what he could not imagine yesterday. His whole body broke out into a sweat, glistening beautifully. Fuji added another finger and began to move in and out, purposefully grazing that spot occasionally. Ryoma’s eyes were sealed tightly shut against embarrassment as he started to move his hips backwards onto Fuji’s fingers, searching for more contact. Straining for that incredible feeling again. Ryoma made soft mewing sounds that made Tezuka want to flip him over and fuck him senseless. Tezuka clenched his teeth to control himself. Suddenly the fingers were pulled from his body and Ryoma felt disappointed. He could almost still feel Fuji’s fingers inside him, and he wanted them back. Then all at once he realized… Fuji’s going to…oh god….I didn’t want this from him. I want Tezuka. When Fuji stripped out of his pants Ryoma couldn’t help but stare at the hard member, another shudder going through him. You’ve got to be kidding me. Tezuka saw Ryoma’s eyes go completely round. Tezuka easily recognized that look. He didn’t want the boy to panic, this was supposed to be enjoyable for him. He pulled Ryoma’s face back around, kissing him deeply. “Stay with me,” he whispered. “Watch me and relax. It will only hurt for a bit… Ryoma, Make love to me. Touch me.” Hoping to keep Ryoma from thinking on things too deeply Tezuka arched upwards, purposefully rubbing his hips against Ryoma’s exposed length. He offered another kiss, moaning softly as he brought one of Ryoma’s hands up to touch him. Tezuka’s tongue dominated and aroused Ryoma once again, as the boy straddled him. His hand stroked Ryoma’s cock, thinking that it was perfectly formed and proportioned for the lovely fit body.

I can’t believe this--I can’t believe I’m letting them do this to me--I can’t believe he’s letting us do this. But Ryoma was already falling again into Tezuka’s embrace, groaning softly at the feeling of the gorgeous body pressed against him. He didn’t want to admit that he might have been scared, but he was. Yet he wanted this. His blood was like fire in his veins, and a little bit of pain was not too much to ask, he didn’t care. He wanted to be with Tezuka like this, with them both. He was already bracing his palms against the mattress as Fuji’s fingers slid within him once more. He knew now that he had to relax, and he pressed back into the slender fingers. It…felt good, so good, and he pressed his face into the side of Tezuka’s throat as he fought to control his breath.

Fuji shivered, thrilled, as he spread the lotion over himself as well. Slowly he urged Ryoma’s legs to part further. “Make sure you keep him busy,” he told Tezuka, stroking his hips and thigh as he positioned himself around Tezuka’s legs. Nodding, Tezuka ran slow hands over the other’s back, kissing and nibbling at his neck. Tezuka thought Fuji looked amazing, kneeling over them, his blue eyes on fire, eager for what they were about to do. Tezuka’s own hips tensed as if he were the one about to be entered. Ryoma…. He rubbed at the boy’s waist and thighs, trying to coax the muscles to relax. He moaned softly into Ryoma’s ear in encouragement. Ryoma shuddered in response and held onto Tezuka for dear life. He trusted Tezuka and Fuji not to hurt him. Fuji smiled softly. They are both Beautiful. Just beautiful. He didn’t wait any longer, Fuji thrust into him slowly, gasping at the amazing feeling of the tight flesh closing around him. He had never felt anything like it. Ryoma made a low keening moan as he felt Fuji slowly enter his channel. He panted and tried to relax into the invasion. Fuji almost passed out or came, he wasn’t sure which one would happen first. Tezuka was the calming anchor for them both as they had their first time together. The heat and the tightness were so intense, Fuji moaned loudly drawing Tezuka’s hot eyes over Ryoma’s shoulder. Tezuka’s lips curved with the incredible image of Fuji with his head tilted back, his lips slightly parted. As he slid in deeper, Ryoma cried out, fingers digging into the sheets as Fuji forced him down flush against Tezuka. The pain was fierce and deep, and he whimpered against Tezuka as his shoulders hunched. “Shit..….” Fuji didn’t move a muscle. Concern etched across his features even as he panted. Fuji suddenly felt so connected to Ryoma, and he felt overwhelmingly protective of him.

Tezuka stroked Ryoma’s sides, caring for him, kissing his neck. “Relax, Ryoma. Stay with me.” He continued to touch Ryoma softly, almost apologetically, Tezuka urged Ryoma into a kiss, calming him. Fierce hazel eyes warned Fuji not to move yet. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry,” Fuji quickly apologized, he kissed Ryoma’s shoulder and his spine, still securely seated within the tight body. When Tezuka finally felt him relax, he nodded to Fuji. Fuji began to move at a slow and controlled pace, not pushing too deeply into his inexperienced partner. Fuji thought fleetingly that it was better that it was him and not Tezuka for Ryoma’s first time, seeing as the boy’s entrance was so tight. Fuji’s eyes drank in the long lines of muscle splayed across the sculpted back, one hand caressed him as the other held him in place. Ryoma tried to relax against Tezuka beneath him; the soft attentions were helping, and as he calmed he became more aware of the heat Syuusuke was spreading up his spine. He turned around once, his eyes finding Fuji’s, and besides the lust he saw clearly written there, Ryoma saw care and concern and affection as well in the brilliant blue eyes. Gradually as the pain disappeared, Ryoma began to move with him, rocking back slightly to meet the firm thrusts. Fuji hit his secret spot and his eyes opened wide, “Oh God….” Tezuka shuddered at the rising of that voice, He needed room to move, “Syuusuke, can you hold him up?” Fuji nodded, he grasped the tight hips and pulled them up with him, bringing Ryoma up to his knees, giving Tezuka room to stroke Ryoma’s cock. Tezuka covered his hand in lube, then began to stroke Ryoma. Ryoma saw stars and his breath hitched. He gasped; the change of positions brought Fuji closer to something deep and raw inside him, and he moaned loudly as he pushed himself back against the strong hips. Bracing his elbows on the bed, and his forehead against Tezuka’s neck he did his best to push back, reaching for that pleasure.

Ryoma bit his lip hard. It was too much—the heat was pulsing up his spine and in his groin, Fuji’s hands caressing his back and hips. Fuji was moving faster and deeper now, raising his strained voice along with their rhythm. Ryoma’s vision wavered, Shit--shit, I can’t-- Ryoma raised scared eyes to Tezuka’s hazel ones, his lover read clearly the panic written there. “I don’t know what’s happening…AAAhh!….. I can’t….” He gasped and panted, Tezuka stroked his flesh and kissed his forehead as Ryoma let out a deep purring moan that raised all the hairs on both Tezuka’s and Fuji’s necks. Tezuka calmed him, “Shhh Ryoma, It’s okay. We’re here. We are with you.” wide golden eyes pleaded, “Buchou…it feels….oh god….. please help me….” Ryoma’s pleasure climbed to an impossible height. Tezuka stroked Ryoma’s cock harder, it was leaking a steady stream of clear fluid onto his belly, “Let go, Ryoma. Come for us.” Tezuka kissed him and Fuji thrust harder, Suddenly he felt something inside him snap and his eyes filled with white light as his whole body seemed to come. His chest, his back and his legs all pulsed in time with is orgasm. Ryoma clenched down on Fuji wringing the tensai into an immediate orgasm with him. Ryoma distantly heard Tezuka moan loudly into his mouth in encouragement and he felt as well as heard Fuji’s climax. Suddenly they were all connected. Ryoma had never felt so close to anyone, not ever. He had never wanted to be this intimate, but now he was surrounded, cocooned. The emotions were overpowering. The waves seemed to go on forever. When it was finally spent, he fell down onto Tezuka’s chest. Soft kisses caressed his cheek. Through the remaining shivers, he could feel that Fuji was gently kissing his back, then he felt the tensai lean his forehead onto his spine, and could feel Syuusuke’s heavy breath pulsing there, tickling the skin. Ryoma felt the plop of a small hot drop of water on his back. Then he felt another one. He felt Fuji’s belly tense up against him and he knew the tensai was crying, and suddenly Ryoma was crying too. Ryoma wrapped one arm around Tezuka’s neck burying his face there as his tears bathed his captain. Ryoma’s other hand snaked back to find and clasp Fuji’s hand. Hazel eyes brimmed then spilled over as he held Ryoma tightly to him. Fuji’s eyes found Tezuka’s and they smiled at each other. Syuusuke started to pull out so that he could lie next to Tezuka and be closer to them both, but Ryoma squeezed his hand quickly, “Please don’t go… Syuu….Syuusuke.” Another tear escaped Fuji as he eased his weight down onto Ryoma’s back and wrapped his arms around the boy, his eyes finding Tezuka’s to see if he could bear their combined weight. The smiling teary face proved he had no problem with the added weight at all.

Sometime later, Fuji pulled out of Ryoma gently, dragging the boy up off of Tezuka where he was starting to fall asleep, the dark head nestled into the crook of a shoulder. “Wha?” Fuji shushed him, “Trust me, we have to shower Ryoma. If we don’t clean up now, it could get nasty.” As Ryoma pulled himself off the bed, Tezuka followed. The shower in the master bath would not hold all three, so Fuji and Echizen took the shower, while Tezuka used a washcloth to clean his midsection, he didn’t need a full shower. He hadn’t even come with the other 2, but it wasn’t important. What had happened was so remarkable, that his insides were still quivering with it. The emotions at the end were awe-inspiring. Far beyond anything mere sex could account for. He left the bathroom to them as he returned to the bed. He dropped his glasses onto the table, pulling the bed covers off completely, leaving only a sheet. It was too warm this evening even with the ocean breeze for more then a sheet. He wouldn’t put on the A/C unless it was truly necessary, he preferred fresh air. Tezuka lay down on his stomach with his left leg bent up slightly, arms curled under the pillow. Unaware of the incredible image the muscular back and well curved buttocks made to the two boys coming out of the bathroom, Tezuka had almost drifted off to sleep when he felt both warm bodies slide into place on each side of him. Hands caressed his back, kisses rained down on his shoulders. He opened his eyes to see blue orbs gazing at him. Fuji smiled, “It occurred to us in the shower that we don’t believe you came, did you?” Tezuka shook his head, “No. It’s not important. That was wonderful enough.” He heard Ryoma say in between yawns, “Of course it’s important. We love that.” Tezuka chuckled, “Very well Ryoma, tomorrow you can make me come as much as you want.” He felt Ryoma shoot up in the bed to a sitting position, “Did you hear that Syuusuke?” Syuusuke smiled, “You’ve done it now Kunimitsu.” Tezuka sighed as his right arm grabbed Ryoma around the waist and pulled him back down to the bed. Fuji chuckled then frowned slightly as he stared into the lovely hazel eyes shed of their usual glass covering. “What is it?” Fuji wondered at Tezuka’s frown. The firm lips pursed as Tezuka thought about it, “You haven’t kissed me enough today.” “Oh really? Well, I was occupied.” Tezuka smiled as his lips found Syuusuke’s, “Well you are not now, are you?” Ryoma cuddled along Tezuka’s flank, his eyes getting heavy as he listened to the soft whispers of Kunimitsu kissing Syuusuke. It sounded nice.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Atobe pursed his lips. He had just pulled himself out of the pool, and Kikumaru was hopping around in front of him waving his arms all over the place saying they could not find Echizen, Fuji or Tezuka Buchou. He wanted to know their room numbers, but the front desk would not divulge the information. Atobe heard Oshitari’s sensual voice say, “I told you Atobe, he’s always like this. Even when we played the Invitational together. Only Oishi can calm him down.” Atobe eyebrows creased. He brought one hand up and snapped his fingers. Oshitari’s eyes widened in surprise when Eiji immediately shut up. Atobe smirked, “Kikumaru, Eiji. Please don’t make a scene in the lobby. Tezuka probably got up early to run as usual and dragged Fuji and Echizen with him.” Eiji shook his head emphatically no. Atobe nodded, “Very well. Ore-sama will save the day. I will go get your missing team mates. Have breakfast brought by the pool waiting for them. Alright?” Atobe pulled on a shirt while Eiji jumped up and down happily and ran from the pool to tell Momo and Oishi that Atobe was going to find them.

Atobe brought his master key with him this time, (his father owned the hotel under a corporate name) and headed up to the 15th floor. It was truly unlike Tezuka to be still abed at this late hour. He thought that yesterday had been an aberration. He had a brief flash of chills wondering if he would find the handsome captain tied down to the bedposts with a mask and a small rubber ball stuck in his mouth. Atobe physically shook his shoulders to get rid of the chills as well as the horrifying image. He avoided Fuji and Echizen’s rooms heading straight for Tezuka’s doorway. Using the card key, he wondered what he would see as he entered. He hoped fervently that everything was alright. He knocked softly first, “Tezuka?” No response. Atobe stepped in, closing the door quietly behind him. No sounds came from the bedroom beyond the sitting room. Cat-soft footsteps took him to the bedroom doorway where his eyes widened and his footsteps faltered.

A slow smile grew on his face, and he shook his head as he took in the tableau before him. It really was artistically beautiful. Atobe didn’t think he had seen anything so odd yet so exquisite in his whole life. If they would let him, he would commission an artist to paint it. Atobe silently cursed that he didn’t have a cell or camera with him. The sun came into the room thru the open balcony doors. Sea breezes lifted and played gently with the white curtains. All 3 were on the huge bed together. As Atobe’s eyes languidly drifted over the tall form from the toes upwards, he thought “Tezuka truly is a magnificent specimen. Only he could manage an outcome such as this.” All 3 were obviously nude. Tezuka lay in the center of the bed on his back, the sheet just barely pulled up to cover his hips. The long muscular lines of sleek torso and chest were highlighted stunningly by the morning light. His right arm was straight down at his side, the fingers entwined with Fuji’s. Fuji was curled in sleep on his side, his body splayed out to the edge, sideways on the bed, but his head nestled into the hollow of Tezuka’s shoulder. Tezuka’s head was turned away to his left as if he fell to sleep while looking protectively over the dark head sheltered there. Echizen slept inside the curve of Tezuka’s arm, with his back firmly against Tezuka’s side, his head pillowed on his bicep. Tezuka’s arm curled down around him tenderly. Echizen’s hands were both wrapped around the arm, as if to hold it there. The sheet covered completely up to Echizen’s ribs, but only covered Fuji’s hips, one of Fuji’s long legs gracefully peeked out of the bottom. Atobe sighed as he realized he would not see this again, they would never let him have it painted, nor would they be able to pose naturally for something so unconsciously lovely. Atobe had a sudden image in his head of the rare Toad Lily. Yes, That is what they are like. The Toad Lily. Strange, rare and exquisite.

Atobe placed one foot up on the baseboard, and leaned his forearm down on it, as he grinned. “Tezuka, Buchou. You lazy bastard, get up!” Tezuka blinked several times as he tried to rouse himself from sleep, the eyebrows creasing. He was even more handsome without the glasses, although Atobe had always liked him with them. “You hear me? Or shall we wait until lunch for your exalted presence?” Atobe noticed with a tightening of his chest, how even though he was half asleep, the first reactions that came to the strong captain were concern for his lovers. The arm around Echizen tightened, the hand clasping Fuji did the same as the hazel eyes finally tried to focus on the bottom of the bed. “Atobe?” “Yes, Atobe.” Tezuka’s eyes cut to the window making a mental note of the late hour, “I presume we are late rising.” Atobe chuckled, “Very late, Tezuka.” He smiled at Fuji’s bleary blinking eyes, and Echizen as he sat up slowly rubbing his, “Good morning Fuji, Echizen.” Fuji blinked some more as blue eyes registered their visitor. Fuji asked, “Should I ask how bad it is that they sent you to get us?” Atobe’s foot returned to the floor as he stood up straight. “Let’s see, Kikumaru is having a fit of apoplexy, and Momoshiro is repeating the same sentences over and over again. Oishi is curiously silent, more then usual. And Inui seems to believe something is amiss. He has already bought a telescope and a new notebook. I saw him headed towards the ridge outside your window about 15 minutes ago.” Fuji and Echizen’s eyes enlarged to saucer-like proportions as they both grabbed the sheet and scrambled off the bed taking it with them as they dove in concert for the blinds to close them. Atobe laughed. He turned back to find Tezuka holding a pillow modestly over his hips while he dragged his fingers thru golden brown hair. He succeeded in only messing the strands up even more, and making it all sexier somehow. Tezuka sighed, “Thank you Atobe. For everything. Other then just the rooms, I know I have you to thank for much more.” Atobe was uncomfortable with this kind of praise, he shrugged it off. “Then get up and come play me, Tezuka. No one else is worth my effort.” Atobe nodded with a smile and turned to go, but he didn’t make it more than 2 paces before Echizen’s body had slammed into him, his arms wrapped around the handsome diva. Atobe stood rock still. Unused to such contact at all, much less any that was so openly affectionate. Atobe’s gray eyes looked stunned. Echizen whispered in his ear, “Thank you so much, Atobe.” Then Ryoma kissed his cheek. Atobe blinked. As Ryoma headed in the direction Fuji had gone, dragging the sheet behind him, he chuckled over his shoulder, “I’ll still beat you any day of the week, Monkey-king.” Atobe laughed as he regained his composure, “Such proud words, brat.” His eyes smiled at Tezuka before he left the room. “Volleyball courts, Tezuka. 15 minutes. I suggest you have excuses ready for your team.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The 3 of them descended to the 1st floor, wearing various beach clothes. They had decided they would say they had been up playing cards most of the night in a heated competition. Or at least Echizen and Fuji decided that was what they would say as an excuse for their obvious over sleeping and disappearance. Tezuka hadn’t agreed to anything, he did not believe anyone would have the nerve to ask him. A large breakfast was waiting for them at a table by the pool. Eiji screamed loudly at their approach. “Hoi! Ochibi! Fuji, Tezuka! Where have you been? We’ve been so worried. We have SO much to do. Have breakfast, let’s go, go, go!” Tezuka frowned in irritation, as did Echizen while Fuji gave an amused chuckle. His blue eyes noted again how much alike Tezuka and Echizen truly were. Eiji grabbed Echizen’s hand, attempting to drag him to the table faster, but the rookie gave a pained gasp, and he dug his heels in refusing to move a single step further. Instantaneously, like a well practiced military drill team bent on his defense, both pairs of eyes cut to him, blue and hazel filled with concern. Fuji’s hand clasped his arm in support, while Tezuka’s body blocked further contact from Eiji, Tezuka’s stern voice said, “Eiji. That’s enough. We’ll get there.” Eiji quickly released Echizen’s hand, confusion written across the fine features. “Are you alright, Echizen?” Ryoma let out the breath he’d been unconsciously holding, “Yeah. Fine. I slept on the floor last night, my back is stiff.” Eiji blinked several times. “Didn’t Atobe get you a bed?” Fuji interrupted, “We’d played cards long into the night. Echizen fell asleep on the floor, so we covered him with a sheet and left him there. Perhaps it was a mistake.” Tezuka’s eyes dwelt on his smaller partner, wondering why he had not said anything about his discomfort. They sat down to eat, while Oishi tried to put together volleyball teams. Fuji forestalled him, “Leave Echizen and I out. We’ll watch for today.” Ryoma blurted, “Fuji-senpai. You can play.” Blue eyes caressed his, “You tired me out last night. I will sit it out with you.” He turned to Tezuka, “No card playing tonight for Echizen, Tezuka.” Tezuka nodded at the hidden message. He folded his napkin placing it on the table. “Why don’t you two come watch me beat Atobe?” They all went to the volleyball courts on the sand, Fuji and Echizen trailing the tall form. Fuji whispered, “Are you okay? Why didn’t you say something?” Echizen shrugged, “I didn’t know until he pulled me. Its not too bad, just sore. It surprised me is all.” Fuji nodded, “I know the feeling.” Echizen looked at him, his mind working out that Fuji had been the uke to Tezuka’s seme. “Does it always hurt so bad?” Fuji thought for a second, “No. Your body gets used to it, sometimes it doesn’t hurt at all.” They sat on the sand and watched as Oshitari and Atobe played against Tezuka and Eiji. Both match ups were very good combinations.

Tezuka played hard, his lover’s eyes watched every move he made. About 20 minutes into the game Fuji heard Echizen say softly for his ears only, “You were….. my first.” Fuji’s eyes opened. He blinked several times. Then the blue eyes turned into liquid pools. He was Ryoma’s First. He had known that instinctively, but to hear it said……Fuji felt very proud as well as very sad. Ryoma had wanted Tezuka. He loved him. Tezuka should have been his first. His first time had been given to someone he hadn’t even wanted, it had been taken away from him. Fuji felt like he wanted to cry right there in the middle of the beach. “Fuji-senpai?” Fuji tried to smile, but he failed miserably. Echizen seemed to understand. “It’s okay, Fuji-senpai. It was wonderful, really. And I was with both of you. Tezuka was my first too. Sort of.” Echizen chuckled as he made fun of himself, “I bet no one else on the team had 2 lovers for their first time.” Fuji laughed, but his heart still clenched. He suddenly felt that overpowering need to protect the dark haired boy again. He would have to think of some way to make it up to Echizen. Fuji said, “Well, you were my first as well. I’ve never been…….” Echizen nodded. He knew that Fuji meant he’d never been seme before. He suddenly blinked, “You mean Tezuka never……?” Fuji smiled and shook his head, “Can you picture him giving someone that kind of control?” Echizen shook his head no. They watched the game in relative silence.

The day was pretty wonderful. Sun, sand, volleyball and swimming. Tezuka did beat Atobe, but Atobe made him work for it. They switched partners and Tezuka teamed with Atobe. Together they beat all comers. Eiji insisted on being told what their room numbers were. Fuji finally gave it to him knowing it wouldn’t matter. They would simply lock the world out when they wanted to be alone. The problem arose when both Eiji and Momo wanted to accompany them to their rooms that night to hang out. Tezuka cut in, “We were up late last night, and my room is sandwiched between the 2 of theirs. The walls are paper thin and I need sleep. I don’t want to hear loud talking and monkeying around. They may go to your rooms if they want to.” Tezuka walked to the elevators leaving no room for discussion. Momo exclaimed, “Hoi, he’s cranky. He must need his beauty sleep. Echizen, hang out in my room for a while.” Eiji said, “Fuji-ko, hang with Oishi and me.” Both boys declined politely, saying they were tired. Echizen yawned hugely to prove the point, and they both turned to the elevators following in Tezuka’s wake. Eiji’s eyes followed them, wondering what the heck was up. A few days ago Echizen wouldn’t come to practice, Fuji was sabotaging the rookie and Tezuka was choosing between them, yet now they were friends? Did Tezuka dump them both? From Tezuka’s cranky behavior, maybe he did.
Fuji and Echizen didn’t bother with their rooms, they entered thru Tezuka’s door again, locking it firmly behind them as they entered. He had just gotten out of a quick shower when they came in, “I see you made your excuses.” Echizen chuckled, “Did you think we wouldn’t? Hang out with Eiji and Momo, or come and make love with you… it’s a no-brainer, really.” Both came up to him, offering up their lips for the kisses they had both been wanting all day. Echizen grabbed Fuji’s chin and pulled him into a kiss a well, smiling happily. The two went into the shower, sharing it quickly, and tossing each other towels companionably on their way out. They padded over to the bed, each taking a seat on opposite sides of Tezuka. For once he knew it was because it was simply where they had decided to sit, and not because they were dividing him up like a prized turkey. He had watched them during the day. The closeness they shared now was real. Fuji was protective of Ryoma, and Ryoma now looked up to Fuji, he blossomed under his watchful eye. Tezuka kissed Fuji. He never tired of the sweet lips. He turned and found Ryoma’s mouth. The memories of last night, and his loss of innocence turned the kiss into a hot exploration before Tezuka finally pulled away. Tezuka wanted to make love to him. To seriously rock Ryoma’s world as he had already done to Fuji. But not now, not yet. Ryoma was sore and it would be too much for him. Ryoma could sense the raw heat in Tezuka’s kiss. It made him unreasonably hard. Tezuka tilted his head, brushing the raven locks away from Ryoma’s magnificent eyes, as the captain took in the flushed cheeks and rapid breath. It seemed Tezuka was seeing Ryoma now from a whole new perspective. Fuji smiled as he watched Tezuka’s appraisal, he could see the eyebrows draw together in contemplation, then they drew down as a look of jealousy briefly crossed his face. Fuji heard himself say, “So you see the years now too, Tezuka? I understand the jealousy completely. I oddly found myself covetous over him this morning.” Tezuka’s eyes cut to him briefly knowing that Fuji had seen it already. Tezuka was looking into Ryoma’s face and realizing for the first time that although Ryoma was attractive right now in a coltish sort of way, when he reached their age in just another short year and a half or so, he would become absolutely stunning. Drop dead gorgeous stunning. An unexpected flash of jealousy coursed thru Tezuka, and he claimed Ryoma’s lips once more, his tongue diving in to make the boy’s head swim. When he broke the kiss Ryoma looked back and forth between them “What does that mean, Syuusuke?” Syuusuke smiled, “It means you are in for a lot of trouble, since we are both becoming very possessive of you.” Ryoma chuckled evilly. “So you two are finally catching up? I’m already there. Mada Mada Dane.” Tezuka laughed outright, and Fuji joined in.

Tezuka’s heart clenched, and it clenched hard. This was right somehow. It fit. As ridiculous and absurd as some would think it was, it was right to him. Tezuka turned to Syuusuke. Suddenly Tezuka put his hand behind his neck, and pulled his ear close to him, he whispered in the tensai’s ear, “What you’ve done….How you are….” Fuji was surprised to hear Tezuka’s voice catch, “I love you. I thought you should know.” Fuji’s chest tightened as his lips found Tezuka’s. By allowing Tezuka to be free to love Ryoma; and by truly caring for the rookie himself, he had opened Tezuka’s heart to loving him. The wonderful selfless act had been the key to unlocking Tezuka’s heart. Mieko had given him that key on a silver platter. The odd part was, Fuji had reasoned it out, and allowed it to happen purely for his own ends. Fuji wanted Tezuka. To have him, he knew he would have to accept Ryoma. It had been cut and dry, and calculated. But he truly did care for Ryoma now. He had gotten caught in his own web, and he’d be damned if he wasn’t as happy as a clam about it.

Fuji eyed Ryoma. His lips took on a smile with a predatory air. "Ryoma, I want to play with you......" Fuji moved towards him when he was stopped cold in his tracks by Tezuka. A strong hand buried in his hair, grasping and pulling as firm lips descended to his. When Tezuka allowed him to come up for air, he heard the sensual voice say, "Fuji, What makes you think you get to play 2 nights in a row?" He was kissed soundly again. "I believe it's our turn to play with you, right Ryoma?" Blue eyes found Echizen's staring at him hungrily. "Hai, Buchou. It's Syuusuke's turn....."