Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Chapter 1 - Memories

“Morning love.” Chester greeted his friend with a broad smile as Mike slowly made his way from the bathroom to the counter. His eyes half open.

“Mornin’.” He replied and yawned. He was really tired.

The blonde man placed a steaming mug of coffee in front of his friend who now had taken a seat on one of the bar stools. “Thanks.” The half-Japanese smiled softly.

“You’re welcome. Tough night?” Chester asked while taking the pan with the scrambled eggs from the stove. It had become a routine that he made breakfast for his two friends after his night shift at the grocery store and before he went to bed.

Mike yawned again. “It took me hours to adapt that original of my customer.” He rubbed his eyes. He loved his job as a graphic designer, but this assignment was stressing him out.

Suddenly the door to their apartment opened. Both turned their heads as their third roommate entered the room.

“Morning guys.” The man with the curly brown hair greeted them. “Wow, it smells fantastic in here. It really was a good idea to let you move in with us Chaz.” He smiled.

“Hi Brad.” Both said in return.

“I thought you were still sleeping in your room?” Chester looked at him questioning, dividing the eggs from the pan on two different plates.

“Well, I did something similar to sleeping but not in my room.” Brad answered with a smirk.

“Good for you Delson.” The blonde man replied with a grin. “Here is some protein for you. Guess you need it.” He placed one of the plates on the kitchen isle near the other one and the second plate in front of Mike.

Brad laughed out loud. “Thank you. But I need to take a shower first.” At the bathroom door he turned around again, looking at Mike. “Oh, and love” He said with a grin, teasing the other one as Chester usually was the only one using that nickname for the half-Japanese. “There’s a package for you at the post office. I just took a note out of the mailbox.” After returning the gesture of Mike, sticking out his tongue, he went into the bathroom.

The blonde one giggled. “He’s just jealous.” He winked at the other one, making him giggle as well before his face became serious again. “Who’s sending me a package?”

“Well, did you order something?” Chester looked at him questioning while putting some scrambled eggs from Mike’s plate in his mouth.

The other one thought for a second. He didn’t remember ordering anything.

“Nope.” He answered, taking a sip of his coffee.

“Whatever it is, keep my posted.” The blonde man smiled, handing his friend the fork he ate with before. “I’ll go to bed now.” As he made his way towards his room, he already started to undress himself by taking of his shirt and muscle shirt. Mike couldn’t help but to watch his friend closely. ’Gosh, he’s really hot.’ He thought before shaking his head slightly. ’He’s your friend Mike. If you’re that desperate you should take care of yourself more often.’ He couldn’t help but to smirk. He really was stressed and a little horny right know. Therefore, jerking off would help with both. He gulped down his coffee, ate the rest of the scrambled eggs and made his way into his room. Brad should be finished anytime soon, and he would be there, waiting in front of the bathroom door, fresh clothes in his hands and ready to take a soothing shower and care of himself.

After the shower and another hour of work at his desk as his job could be done in home office, he went to the post office to get the mysterious parcel.

Back at the apartment Brad and Chester greeted him as he entered. Both sat on the large brown leather sofa. The brown-haired one played a video game and the other one was next to him, watching.

“Shouldn’t you be sleeping?” Mike asked, after he had slipped out of his shoes and made his way over to his roommates.

“Yeah, but something woke me up and I couldn’t fall back asleep.” Chester replied, eyes almost closed, making some room for the half-Japanese to sit down between the two men.

“Is that the package?” The blonde one asked while covering himself a little more with the beige blanket which normally was just for decoration purposes. He looked really sleepy.

“Yep. My mom sent me some stuff from my old room. Guess she wants to use it as an office or something like that.” Mike replied. He had sneaked a peak already.

Carefully he opened it again. On the top was a photo album and some loose pictures.

“Aw, is that you?” Chester suddenly asked, reaching into the box and taking out a few pictures.

Mike looked at the photos and blushed. Most of them showed him as a toddler and a teenager.

“Even as you were able to choose your outfit yourself you sucked at it.” Brad stated laughing, referring to one picture where his friend had red hair and too lose clothes, before he focused back on his video game.

“Don’t listen to him. I think you looked cute.” The blonde one smiled, pointing to one photo were the other one was about five years old. “But thankfully you’ve chosen to wear different pants now.” He continued and started laughing, now looking at a picture were Mike was a teenager and really into baggy clothes. The half-Japanese blushed.

“You don’t have to be embarrassed love. We all have made some weird fashion choices.” Chester replied with a grin as he noticed the redness in the other one’s face. Mike smiled softly at his friend and looked further into the box. His mother had sent him some report cards and other documents from school. Suddenly he spotted some vinyl. His heart started to beat faster. In a hurry he took a closer look and started to smile broadly. He has been looking for those records for a while now and thought he had lost them. Even though he had no record player anymore he was happy that his favorite pieces were back in his possession.

“Who’s that?” Chester’s voice tore him out of his thoughts. He turned to face the man next to him who was showing him a picture of four people standing next to a snowman.

The half-Japanese smiled sadly. “That’s me, my brother, Brad and my father.” He replied.

Brad paused his game to look at the picture as well. “Oh yeah, I remember this.” The brown-haired man smiled softly. He and Mike used to be neighbors growing up.

“I didn’t know that you have a brother.” The blonde one looked at his friend, feeling that the mood had changed suddenly.

“Had.” The half-Japanese replied. “My father and my brother died in a car accident a few days after this photo was taken.” Brad squeezed the shoulder of his friend before continuing his game. Even though it had happened many years ago he knew that his friend was still hurt.

“Oh, love, I’m sorry to hear that.” Chester answered, snuggling up against the right arm of his friend.

“Thank you but it’s alright. Guess we all have been through some stuff in the past.” The half-Japanese said with a soft smile.

“Yeah.” The blonde one stated, a hint of sadness in his voice as he put the pictures on the coffee table. Mike looked to his side. As his friend was leaning against him, he couldn’t see his face. But it felt like the other one knew what it meant to lose someone.

“Can we order some Chinese food today?” Brad asked after a few minutes. He didn’t like the silence after such a heavy topic.

The half-Japanese carefully put everything back into the box. “Sure, but only if you promise me to ask Rob and Dave about the band today.” He smiled, slowly leaning against the back rest of the sofa. The body of the petite man automatically moved with him.

“Even if I wanted to forget about it I couldn’t as you’re reminding me about it almost every hour.” The other one replied with a grin. “I’ll text them later. I promise.” His features softened. He knew that this was really important to his friend. Since they were kids Mike was always talking about making music, showing him the newest tracks from his favorite musicians and trying to convince him to learn an instrument.

“Thank you.” The man next to him answered with a soft smile.

As Brad focused back on the TV again, Mike carefully pulled out his right arm from under the blonde one. Chester now leaned against his upper body. He watched his friend closely as he didn’t move at all and he could only hear him breathing quietly. ’Seems like he has fallen asleep.’ He thought with a smile. He slowly covered him with the blanket a little more and laid his arm on him, pressing him carefully more against himself. ’If I move, he’ll probably wake up, but he really needs to rest after his night shift.’ As he knew that it wouldn’t be a problem if he'd continue his work a little bit later, he stayed on the couch, watching his friend play his video game and serving as a pillow for the other one.

Chapter Text

Chapter 2 - Dreams

“Love?” Chester whispered, carefully closing the door behind him after he’d entered the room of his friend.

“Hm?” It sounded in the dark.

The blonde man made his way over to the bed. A light beam from a streetlamp in front of the window revealed a part of a sleepy looking half-Japanese. The curtain hasn’t been fully closed. They exchanged a look and Mike lifted the blanket for the other one to get in. Chester smiled as he slipped under it. The dark haired one covered his friend with the fabric, slid closer and put his right arm around the other one’s upper body.

“Bad dream?” He asked whispering, his breath tingled Chester’s ear.

His roommate just nodded, enjoying the warmth.

“Night.” Mike pressed his friend closer to his body, snuggling up against him.

“Night.” The other one whispered, reaching for the hand of his friend, holding it with his own two hands near his chest.

Mike smiled at the sight of Chester next to him. The blonde one was a very impulsive and loud guy but every now and then he showed his more sensitive side. The half-Japanese remembered the first time this had happened. A few weeks ago, they both where alone in the apartment and in the middle of the night he woke up to a screaming Chester in the other room. He had a nightmare and after Mike had hold him in his arms for a few minutes, calming him down, the other one asked if it would be okay for him if they would spend the night together. Sure, they both got along pretty well already, even though Chester had just moved in three weeks ago but sleeping in one bed was something else. However, he did agree to it and never regretted it since. He too felt lonely in some nights and enjoyed the warmth and smell of another human being next to him.

He carefully got up and made his way to the door. He took a brief boxer, some pants and a t-shirt from the chair at his desk, next to the door and left the room.

“Morning.” Brad’s voice made him jump. “Did you spend the night with someone?” He asked with a grin.

Mike stuck his tongue out at the other on as he closed the door behind him. “Chaz had another nightmare.” He explained, placed his clothes on the counter and grabbed a mug near the sink to pour himself some coffee.

“How often did that happen now? I mean, you can tell me if you’re fucking, I don’t mind.” The brown-haired man stated, shrugging his shoulders. Mike blushed. Of course, the blonde man was his type. He was good looking, funny and smart but still, after almost three months, he didn’t know if the other one liked men or women. And even if he was gay too, he would probably never find someone like the half-Japanese attractive. He wasn’t anyone special. They were just close friends and that was fine with him too.

“We’re not.” He answered, rolling his eyes. “Did you ask Rob and Dave about making music?” He changed the topic.

Brad smiled. He was well aware of the fact that his friend wouldn’t mind if he and Chester would do more than just sleeping next to each other. “Yeah, they are into it and will come over today to watch this one movie they’d talked about the last time.” He answered and got up from the couch.

“Great, I’ll text Joe and ask Chaz if he has time today as well.” Mike smiled before he took a sip of his coffee. He had hoped that his friends were into this music thing too. Since he was a child, making music was his passion.

“Time for what?” Chester’s voice suddenly made both men jump. He stood at the door frame, only in his boxers.

“A threesome.” Brad replied with a grin. Although he too had no clue about the sexuality of the blonde one and didn't really care, he knew that he was always up to make some sexual innuendos.

“I’m in.” The half-naked man smirked before he made his way to the bathroom. The other one laughed out loud while Mike blushed. Luckily, the others didn’t seem to notice and he inconspicuous took a deep breath before speaking. “Rob and Dave will join our band.” He smiled, grabbing his clothes.

“Great! I can’t wait to become famous.” Chester replied with a grin and disappeared into the bathroom. The other two giggled.

“Well, I’m off to work. See you later.” Brad stated, waved and went out the door after he took his keys and jacket from the wardrobe.

Mike smiled. This was going to be a great day. He had a good night’s rest, a day off and would spend the evening with his friends and start a band.

“Hi guys. Look who I’ve found outside on the streets, selling their bodies.” Brad laughed as he entered the apartment, two men behind him.

“We all need to pay rent.” The red-haired one named Dave said, shrugging his shoulders.

“Alright, if this is going to be an orgy, I need to take a shower first.” Chester said with a straight face.

The others exchanged a look before falling in a fit of laughter. Even though the blonde one was only part of their group of friends for a few months now, he fitted in perfectly.

“Sorry Chaz, but I rather would participate in an orgy where at least one person doesn’t have a dick.” The other one, named Rob replied laughing.

“Sounds logical.” Chester giggled, got up from the armchair and made his way into the bathroom.

“Where’s Joe?” Brad asked after he took of his jacket and shoes. The other two did the same.

“I’m here.” The voice of the Korean sounded from the kitchen. He closed the door of the fridge, a soda in his hand and smiled.

“Gosh Mike, I’ve told you not to let him near our food unsupervised.” The brown-haired man stated, playfully rolling his eyes.

“I’m a Ninja! I move faster as the speed of light!” Joe answered with a grin and went past them to sit down on the armchair. “What movie are we watching today? And can we order pizza?” He asked before taking a sip of his drink.

“First of all, I’d like to talk about the band.” Mike answered with a shy smile.

Dave laughed while taking a seat on the smaller leather couch. “Sure, I can’t wait to remove the dust from my bass.”

“Yeah, my drums really need some action again.” Rob replied with a grin, sitting down next to the red-haired one.

“Great, but where are we going to practice? I’m going to sing and scream really loud.” Chester asked with a grin, after returning from the bathroom and now standing next to the bigger couch.

“My basement.” The future drummer of the band answered. “We wouldn’t bother anyone and don’t need to pay a rent or something like that.”

“Would your parents be okay with that?” Mike looked at him questioning.

“I don’t live with them; they live with me!” He stated. “They don’t have to be okay with it.”

There was silence for a few seconds.

“But you’ve asked them, right?” Brad asked.

The drummer blushed as he nodded, making the others giggle.

“Awesome, so, um, what about next Wednesday?” The half-Japanese suggested. He couldn’t wait to show the others the lyrics and melodies he had come up with already.

“I do have a night shift before but that’ll be no problem.” Chester replied with a smile. He too was excited.

As they all agreed on the date and time, they finally ordered pizza.

Chapter Text

Chapter 3 - Friendship

“Fuck man, why are we watching something like that after we just ate?” Brad asked grimacing as the movie showed how a hand full of strange looking humans ate a woman alive.

“It’s really realistic, isn’t it?” Rob answered with a smile.

“Too realistic.” Mike said, not able to keep his eyes on the screen for too long. He was not a fan of those kind of movies at all. He had taken the blanket from the backrest and had covered himself up to his chest with it.

“Come on Mikey, it’s just a movie.” Joe stated while eating another piece of pizza. The others laughed out loud. The Korean could eat all day long.

As they continued watching, the half-Japanese suddenly saw a movement out of the left corner of his eye. As he turned his head, Chester looked at him questioning, holding one end of the blanket in his hand. The other one just nodded. He didn’t mind sharing. The petite one smiled and covered his lower body.

A loud scream in the movie made Mike jump. The others didn’t notice as they were too focused on the TV. Suddenly the warm breath of Chester hit his ear. “Should we force them to watch a romantic movie or documentary next time?” He whispered with a grin, knowing that his friend would be more into that and that the rest of the guys weren’t at all. The half-Japanese giggled and nodded. He was glad that he wasn’t the only one not liking this movie. The blonde man slowly slid closer until their bodies were touching. “Can’t get crazier than eating someone alive, can it?” He asked quietly. “Hopefully not.” Mike answered whispering and felt how his friend grabbed his hand under the blanket. As they were now holding hands Chester looked at him again. “We’ll make it through.” He shot an encouraging smile before he focused back on the TV. The other one smiled as well. He was thankful to have found a good friend in the future singer of their band.

“Well, this was a very, um, strange movie.” Dave said while the credits showed on the screen.

“I liked it.” Rob stated, shrugging his shoulders.

“Guess that makes you strange.” Chester replied laughing. “I mean, don’t get me wrong, I love a good horror movie but that was um, trash.” He still sat close to the half-Japanese.

“I agree.” Mike rose to speak. “Does anyone want a beer?” He asked looking around and got up.

“Alright, next time we’ll watch something you’d like.” Brad answered with a grin.

“But please no documentary about a music genre or something like that.” Rob replied, playfully rolling his eyes.

The half-Japanese stuck his tongue out and made his way to the kitchen. Suddenly his phone vibrated. He took it out of his pocket and looked at the screen. It was an e-mail from his client.

“What’s wrong?” Chester asked, as he was watching him and couldn't tell what the facial expression of the other one meant. The rest of the band turned to look at Mike as well.

The half-Japanese sighed. “Seems like it’s going to be a long night for me.” This was frustrating. He shoved his phone back into his pocket, grabbed the last six pack from the fridge and walked back to his friends where he placed it on the coffee table.

“Why?” Brad asked, taking a bottle and opened it.

“I just got an e-mail from this customer. His assignment is due in two weeks. Or at least it was until today. He wants it by the end of this week.” He explained, running his hand through his hair.

“Man, that sucks.” Rob stated, grabbing a beer as well.

“Yeah, can’t you take care of it tomorrow?” The blonde one looked at him questioning.

“Nope. I already have this other assignment that needs to be finished by Monday.” Mike said, taking a bottle of beer from the table. “Well, I’m off to work guys. Have fun.” He smiled sadly. Turned around and made his way into his room.

beep beep beep

Mike rumbled as he shut off his alarm. ’Too early.’ He thought while rubbing his eyes. He went to bed around 5 a.m. and it was now 10 a.m. “Well, five hours of sleep are better than nothing.” He said to himself and sat up to stretch. Luckily, he had made some good progress and could run some errands before he would need to sit at his desk again.

Dressed in an old washed-out t-shirt and some brief black boxers, he stepped out of his room. The first thing he noticed was the smell of coffee. He looked around.

“Brad? Chester?” He called out but didn’t receive an answer. In the kitchen he grabbed a clean mug from the sink and poured himself some of the brown liquid. ’Guess they both have left for work already.’ He thought, happy that he wouldn’t bother anyone as he had planned on vacuuming. He smiled. Sometimes he found chores relaxing.

“Hello Sir, may I show you our wide range of sexy underwear?” A voice from behind made him jump. Shocked he turned around. Chester looked at him with a grin before he started laughing. “You should see your face right now.”

“Fuck Chaz, don’t scare me like that.” Mike’s heartbeat started to slow down again. He took a deep breath.

“Sorry love.” The other one replied still laughing. “Could you finish your assignment?” He asked, taking the shopping cart next to his friend.

“No, but I’ve made enough progress to take care of some other important stuff.” He smiled. “And as our fridge is empty, shopping is one of it.” They both started to walk the isle.

“You didn’t need to come here. I could have brought everything with me after work.” The blonde one answered while watching his friend checking the shopping list and putting an item in the cart every now and then.

“Nah, I don’t mind.” Mike replied with a soft smile, taking some noodles from the shelf. He really was glad to get out of the apartment sometimes.

They silently walked next to each other for a few seconds. Suddenly the half-Japanese stopped and looked at his friend, raising an eyebrow. “Did you get new shirts?”

“Um, yeah, somehow green seems to be the shit these days.” Chester answered, shrugging his shoulders and looking down on himself. It felt like his boss was changing the color of their work clothes every few weeks.

“Suits you, just like everything.” Mike said with a smile before his eyes widened. ’Fuck, I hope he doesn’t get that the wrong way.’ He didn’t mean to flirt with his friend. Luckily, he was able to soften his features again as the future singer of their band looked at him.

“Do you think so? Um, thank you.” He smiled sheepishly.

’Wait. Is he blushing?’ The dark-haired one thought and fought the urged to smirk. Even if he was just imagining it, he liked the idea of it.

“Chester?” A woman's voice suddenly sounded next to them.

“Hi Sam, what’s up?” The blonde on asked, turning to the left.

“Can you help me in isle three?” She smiled at him, not looking at Mike once.

“Sure.” Chester replied, before he faced his friend again, smiling. “See you later.”

“Bye.” The half-Japanese waved, watching the two walk away before he continued shopping for groceries. 'Did I do something wrong?’ He thought as the behavior of Sam was strange. She used to be nicer to him.

Chapter Text

Chapter 4 - Progress

knock knock

Mike jumped a little and turned his head to the right.

The door of his room opened slowly, revealing a softly smiling Chester.

“Hi love.”

“What?” The half-Japanese replied, his voice sounded rougher than he had intended to.

“Oh, um, sorry. I didn’t mean to bother you.” His friend answered, looking sad now.

Mike sighed. “Sorry, didn’t mean it like that.” He apologized, smiling softly. “What’s up?”

“Um, nothing. I’m just trying not to fall asleep as I have to go to work in about an hour.” He laughed, entering and closing the door behind him.

“Did you try coffee yet?” Mike asked with a smirk whereupon the other one nudged him on the shoulder with a grin.

“So, are you still working on this one assignment?” The blonde made his way to the bed, sitting down.

“No, thank God I’ve finished it just on time.” The half-Japanese answered. “Right now, I’m trying to get ahead of my schedule so I can focus on our first band practice the day after tomorrow.” He smiled. Thinking about making music made him happy.

“You’re such a grown up.” Chester laughed out loud as he lied down on the bed, looking at the ceiling.

“I try.” The other one replied with a smile. Seconds later he continued working on his laptop.

“Have you ever thought about stars?” The voice of his friend sounded after some minutes.

Mike turned around, raising an eyebrow. “You mean the universe?”

Chester giggled. “No. For your ceiling. There are stickers or some are made of plastic too which you can stick to the wall and will glow in the dark.” He explained.

“Sounds cool.” The other one answered, got up and lied down next to his roommate, feet still on the ground, looking at the ceiling.

“Imagine hundreds of stars. Big and small ones. Some planets too.” Chester said with a soft smile.

“Yeah, guess that would look awesome.” Mike replied. He really liked that idea.

“We could build our own little galaxy or just the sky with some different stars and zodiac signs.”

There was silence for a few seconds before the petite one looked at the half-Japanese. “Does it bother you?”

The other one turned his head to face his friend. “What do you mean?”

“My nightmares.” Chester smiled weakly.

Mike grinned. “That’s a weird question as I’m not the one having them.”

His friend laughed out loud. “You’re an idiot.”

“I know.”

Suddenly the dark-haired's heart started to beat faster. “Um, maybe it would help if you um, would talk about them.” He has been curious for a while now. What did the other one dream about that made him that upset that he couldn't fall back asleep alone anymore?

“Probably not.” Chester replied, facing the ceiling again. “Also, I wouldn’t have a reason to bother you every now and then. I mean, someone needs to make sure you’re getting a good night's rest.” He grinned.

“You’re such a thoughtful person.” Mike stated, grinning as well.

“I know.”

They both laughed out loud.

“Alright, guess I should leave you alone now and get ready for work.” Chester said and sat up straight.

“Yeah, I should really get back to work too.” The other one replied, stretched and got up.

They said their goodbyes and the petite man was gone.

Two days later they finally met for their first band practice.

“Thank God Rob still lives with his parents.” Brad said laughing as they walked down the stairs to the basement.

“You mean they live with him.” Dave replied with a wink.

“Doesn’t matter, as long as we have some place to practice.” The singer said with a smile before he yawned.

“Hi guys.” Joe greeted them as they reached the bottom of the stairs. He sat on one of the wooden chairs, his small mixing console on his lap.

“Wow, that’s a really nice basement.” Dave said, while taking his bass and speaker into one corner of the room.

“Yeah, we’ve brought two new rugs for this area there which helps with the sound.” Mike answered, pointing a few feet away while sitting on the black couch, unraveling some cables.

“And I’ve already ordered wall hangings to soundproof that area as well.” Rob smiled.

“So, I can be as loud as I want?” Chester asked with grin, making the others giggle. As he sat down next to the half-Japanese he yawned again.

“Tired?” The other one asked. The singer nodded, tilting to the right to lean against his friend.

“Didn’t you get some sleep after work?” Mike asked.

“Nah, not really.” The petite one replied. “But at least I was able to find all my notes with the lyrics I’ve already written.” He smiled.

“Alright.” Brad said, clapping his hands to get everyone's attention. “Let’s get started.”

“And I've got nothing to say
I can't believe I didn't fall right down on my face
Looking everywhere only to find
That it's not the way I had imagined it all in my mind
What do I have but negativity
'Cause I can't justify the way, everyone is looking at me
Nothing to gain, hollow and alone
And the fault is my own, and the fault is my own” Mike rapped before Chester sang the last verse.

“I wanna heal, I wanna feel what I thought was never real
I wanna let go of the pain I've felt so long
I wanna heal, I wanna feel like I'm close to something real
I wanna find something I've wanted all along
Somewhere I belong”

As the melody faded the singer took a sip from his water bottle.

“Wow, that sounds really good for our first song.” Rob stated stretching. They were practicing for almost five hours now.

“Yeah and Mike, you’re great at rapping.” Dave smiled. The MC blushed.

Suddenly Chester’s phone started ringing. As the rest of the guys put their instruments away and drank something, he took the call.

“Hi Sam.” He greeted the woman on the other end of the phone. After a few seconds he spoke again. “Um, yeah, sure.” There was another pause before he giggled. “Alright, bye.” He ended the call and walked to the couch to sit down, taking another sip from his water bottle. Mike couldn’t help but wonder what his friend had giggled about.

“Should we call it a day?” Brad asked, looking around.

“Yeah, Sam just asked if I would swap my shift with Nicole’s, so I could help her tomorrow when she’s taking the inventory.” The singer answered and stretched.

“Alright, should we meet up in three days again?” The bassist Dave asked, receiving a nod from everyone.

Linkin Park – Somewhere I belong

Chapter Text

Chapter 5- Taking care

“Hi guys.” The singer greeted his friends as he entered the apartment.

“Hi Chaz.” Brad and Mike said in union.

“What are you up to?” He asked, sitting down on the big leather couch next to the half-Japanese.

“Brad’s killing some zombies and I’m thinking about some lyrics.” The MC answered.

“Those aren’t just zombies.” Brad interfered, not taking his eyes of the TV. “Those are vampire zombies.”

The other two giggled.

“Are you alright?” Mike asked the singer, after taking his eyes of the notepad. His friend didn’t look that well.

The other one shrugged his shoulders. “I’m probably just tired from work and from practicing yesterday.” He leaned his head against the backrest of their big brown leather couch, closing his eyes.

“Did you eat and drink enough today?” The MC kept asking.

Chester smiled softly. “Yes dad.”

“I’m serious Chaz.”

“I wasn’t very hungry today.” He admitted in a quiet voice.

The other one thought for a second.

“Maybe you get sick?” Mike reached out to put his hand on the forehead of his friend. “Hm, you feel a little hot.”

Suddenly Brad paused his game and looked at the blonde one, panic in his eyes. “Sick? Keep your germs to yourself!”

The singer looked sad now.

“Calm down Brad.” The MC flashed him a slightly angry glance. “And you will go to bed now. I’ll make you some soup and a tea.” He got up, looking at Chester.

“But it’s too early for that and I want to stay with you and Brad. I don’t want to be alone in my room.” The petite one answered.

“If you don’t rest you won’t be able to practice with us in two days. Do you want that?” The half-Japanese asked in a firm voice. He really was worried for his friend.

Chester slightly shook his head.

“Do you want to stay in my room while I get some work done?”

The face of the singer lighted up a little. “Really?”

Mike smiled softly, nodding.

“If you get sick too, I swear I’ll move out for a few days.” The guitarist looked at his friend.

“Promise?” The other one teased him.

The brown-haired one stuck his tongue out.

“We’ll keep the germs in my room, okay?” The MC answered with a grin. Brad really feared diseases.

“Come on, time to rest.” The half-Japanese said, placing his notepad and pen on the coffee table before carefully grabbing Chester by his arm.

“Make yourself at home. Do you need anything before I go and make you something to eat?” Mike asked after they’ve entered his room. The other one grinned. “Do you mind if I sleep naked? And no, I’m fine, just tired.”

His counterpart giggled. “Seems like you’re feeling better already.” The MC smiled and left.

Fifteen minutes later he returned with a chamomile tea and a small bowl of chicken soup. Luckily, his mom brought some with her and had put it in the freezer as she had visited the last time.

“Chaz?” He asked in a whisper.

“Yeah.” The other one answered. He lied on the right side of Mike’s bed, covered with the blanket up to his bare chest.

The MC hesitated. ’Wait, is he really naked?’ He thought.

“Don’t worry, I’m still wearing underwear.” His friend answered with a grin.

Mike laughed nervously. Why did the other one knew what he was thinking? He slightly shook his head to focus again.

“Alright, here’s some soup and a tea.” He stated, placing the items on the nightstand.

“Thank you.” The singer smiled sheepishly. It has been a while since someone had taken care of him.

“You’re welcome. Enjoy your meal. I’ll be over there working. Just call me if you need anything.”

“Love?” Chester’s voice tore Mike out of his thoughts. He put his pen down and turned around.

“How do you feel?” He asked and looked at the time. Three hours have past already and after he couldn’t hear his friend eating anymore, he knew he must have fallen asleep.

“Tired.” The singer answered.

“Well, get back to sleep then.” The MC replied with a soft smile.

“Um, aren’t you tired too?” Chester asked sheepishly.

Mike looked at him confused. “Um, well a little I guess.”

A few seconds passed before the petite one rose to speak again. “Um, when are you going to bed?”

“Soon?” The half-Japanese answered. Why did his friend ask such weird questions? “Do you need anything?”

The singer hesitated. “No, I, um, I just thought you would get in bed too.”

Mike smiled. “Now that I think about it, I’m really tired. Give me a minute and I’ll be with you.” He winked at his friend before he turned off his laptop and went to the bathroom.

As he returned the singer was still cuddled up in the sheets, looking sleepy. The MC smiled softly. He took off his jeans and changed his t-shirt before he switched the light off and got in bed as well. After getting cozy he looked at Chester. “Are you too tired to cuddle?” He grinned.

The other one giggled slightly. “Never.” He answered.

“Come here.” Mike replied, lifting his blanket a little. The singer slid closer, letting his friend put his arm under his head. The MC pressed him against his body and slowly started to stroke his back.

“Night Chaz.” He whispered. Of course, he liked being that close to his friend, but he could also sense earlier that a sick Chester just needed more affection. He listened to the other one breathing for a while and suddenly planted a kiss on his head. He froze for a second. ’Fuck, what are you doing Shinoda?’He thought. Even though they were really close, which he didn’t mind, a kiss was something else. As the other one didn’t react, he sighed. ’Thank God he is asleep already.’ With that he continued stroking his friend’s back before he too drifted off to sleep eventually.

Chapter Text

The next morning the half-Japanese stood in the kitchen, making a light breakfast for his friend who still was in bed, sleeping. He had already cut up some fruits and had made some coffee. Suddenly the front door opened silently. As he noticed this out of the corner of his eye, he turned around and watched Brad tiptoeing into the apartment.

“Did you really leave because Chaz didn’t feel well yesterday?” Mike looked at him with a grin.

The guitarist jumped a little before he blushed. “Um, no, I mean, not just because of that.”

The MC rose an eyebrow. Suddenly he noticed something. “Wait. Isn’t that your ‘good’ shirt?” He asked, looking at his friend closely.

The other one’s face turned even redder as he put his shoes away and stepped into the kitchen to get himself a coffee.

“Say, where did you spend the night?” Mike grinned while placing a glass of orange juice on the wooden tray.

“You’re making breakfast? Is he feeling better?” Brad asked before taking a sip from his mug.

“Don’t change the subject Bradford.”

The other one hesitated.

“Wow, it’s the first time since I know you that you don’t brag about the woman you were with.”

The guitarist just took another sip of his coffee.

“Wait, is it something serious?” The half-Japanese looked at him in surprise. His friend wasn’t a total womanizer, but he did had sex with different women two to three times a month.

“I, um, I don’t know.” He shrugged his shoulders.

“Wow, Delson.” Mike smiled.

“Mikey?” The voice of Chester suddenly sounded.

“I’ll get ready for work.” The guitarist said, glad that his friend got distracted now.

“We’re not done yet.” The MC called out after the other one as he disappeared into the bathroom.

Mike quickly grabbed the tray and made his way to the singer.

“Hi sleepy, how are you feeling?” He asked smiling after entering his room. The other one was almost completely hidden under the blanket.

“Better.” Chester answered with a soft smile and carefully sat up straight, stretching.

’Gosh, he’s really good-looking.’ The MC thought, watching the half-naked body of his friend move. ’Focus Shinoda!’ He shook his head slightly. “I hope you’re hungry.” He made his way over to the bed. The other one’s face lighted up.

“Is that for me?” He asked in disbelief as the tray was placed in front of him.

Mike nodded smiling. “I thought some vitamins are a good idea. Do you mind if I get some work done?”

Chester looked sad now. “But I don’t like eating by myself.” He answered.

The MC giggled. “Alright, I think I can keep you company for a few minutes.”

“Thank you for this.” The singer said after his friend got in bed next to him. “Do you want some?” He pointed to the bowl full of fruits.

“You’re welcome and no, I’m not hungry.” Mike answered. “Are you going to call in sick today?”

“Nah, I don’t think so. I feel better already.” Chester replied while eating some grapes.

“But maybe a day off is a good idea to recharge your batteries?” The half-Japanese looked at him questioning.

The other one thought for a second. He took a sip of his coffee before he turned to face his friend with a grin. “Does that mean I can stay here all day long and you’ll wait on me?” He put another grape in his mouth.

Mike laughed out loud. “No.”

“Well, I’ve tried.” The singer shrugged his shoulders with a smile. “But maybe a day off would really be a good idea.”

Suddenly they could hear the door of the bathroom open and close again.

Mike’s eyes widened as he remembered something. “I totally forgot to tell you that I think that Brad has a girlfriend.”

“What?” Chester stopped his movement and looked at him in surprise. “How do you know that? Did you meet her?” He sounded excited.

The other one giggled. “No, but he wore one of his nice shirts and had spent the night somewhere else and as I’ve asked him about it, he blushed and didn’t know what to say.”

“Really? Interesting.” The singer smiled. “Brad?” He called out suddenly.

After a few seconds the guitarist appeared at the door. “Yeah?” He asked, looking at them.

“Mikey said you’ve found the love of your life.” Chester smirked, making the man next to him giggle.

Brad blushed.

“So, who’s she? When will we meet her?” The singer asked.

“You both are idiots.” The other one answered, shaking his head and left.

The two men fell in a fit of laughter.

“You are mean.” Mike looked at his friend, still laughing.

“I know.” Chester grinned and finished his orange juice.

“Alright, I really need to get some work done now.” The MC said and got up. “You can stay here if you want.”

“No, I’ll call Jeremy and tell him that I’ll stay home today and then take a shower.” The singer replied, also getting out of bed.

“Good.” The half-Japanese said. He really was worried for his friend and glad that he would take a break.

“Thank you.” Chester smiled as he stood at the door, the tray in his hands.

“For what?” The MC asked, raising an eyebrow, already at his desk.

“Taking care of me.” The singer smiled at him before leaving.

Two hours later the sound of the doorbell made Mike jump. He quickly got up and made his way to the front door. There, Chester had already opened it.

“Hi Sam.” Mike greeted the woman after he stood next to the singer. She just shot a quick glance at him before focusing back on the other one.

“Jeremy told me that you’ve called in sick today and so I just wanted to check on you and maybe keep you some company.” She answered with a smile.

“How nice of you. I mean I’m feeling a lot better today, but someone thought a day off would be a good idea.” Chester grinned and squinted to Mike before he continued speaking. “So, um, do you want to come in? We can go to my room.”

“Sure.” Sam smiled and entered the apartment, still not looking at the half-Japanese once. “I’ve brought you some tea as well.” She handed him a small package as they both made their way to the singer’s room.

As the door clunk shut, the MC jumped a little. ’Why did Sam ignore me and why did Chaz invite her into his room?’ He thought and suddenly his eyes widened. ’Are they more than just friends? Wait, am I jealous? No, Shinoda, don’t go there!’ He shook his head. “Gosh, I’ve definitely been alone for too long.” He whispered to himself, shaking his head again and made his way back to his room.

Chapter Text

Chapter 7 – Questions

The next day they met in Rob’s basement again.

“Just washing it aside
All of the helplessness inside
Pretending I don't feel misplaced
Is so much simpler than change

It's easier to run
Replacing this pain with something numb
It's so much easier to go
Than face all this pain here all alone” Chester ended the song and after the melody faded, he took sip from his water bottle.

“Wow, that sounded awesome.” Mike smiled, sitting at his keyboard.

“I agree.” Brad said, a broad smile on his face as well.

The singer blushed a little. Suddenly the sound of an incoming call made them all jump. It was Chester’s phone which lied on a small table next to the sofa, slowly moving as it vibrated. He quickly made his way over, taking the call.

“Hi Sam.” He smiled and walked around the basement. The others were more or less watching him.

“Sure, I’ll ask them and get back to you. Bye.” The singer said and ended the call.

“Ask what?” Joe looked at him questioning.

Chester smiled. “Sam invited me, well us, to a party this Friday.”

“Oh, cool.” Rob said stretching.

“Yeah, booze and girls. I’m in.” The Korean screamed.

“So, I guess we are all going?” The singer asked laughing.

They all exchanged looks and Mike started to wonder. He and Sam have known each other longer than her and Chester. They weren’t really close friends but close enough that she would normally invite him if there was a party. ’She’s acting different for a while.’’ He thought before focusing back on his friends.

After a few seconds everyone nodded in agreement, only the guitarist didn’t.

“Brad?” Dave looked at the other one who didn’t seem to pay attention and was typing on his phone, a soft smile on his lips.

“Mr. Delson!” The bassist said in a firmer voice.

“Huh?” Brad looked at him confused.

“Who’s Elisa?” Joe suddenly asked, standing behind his friend and glancing at the display of his phone.

The guitarist quickly shoved it back into his pocket. “What was the question?” He asked as if nothing had happened.

A grin appeared on the faces of the other five. They all now focused on the man with the curly hair.

“Who’s Elisa?” Dave repeated the question.

Brad blushed. ”She’s um, a colleague of mine. Um, yeah.” He answered.

The grin in the faces of his friends became bigger.

Suddenly it hit Mike. “Wait. Is this Elisa by any chance the woman you have spent the night with yesterday?”

Chester squeaked. “Is she? Is she the mysterious woman who is the love of your life?”

The rest of the band giggled.

The guitarist still didn’t know what to say.

Now the singer’s features softened, and he made his way over to their speechless friend. “Sorry, we are just really surprised that you’re not bragging about her and therefore think that it’s something more serious.” He slightly squeezed the right hand of his friend.

“He’s right.” Dave interfered, smiling softly.

Brad sighed and shot a shy smile. “Um, alright. She’s new at the company and um, we just get along well, and I don’t know, one thing led to another and we were texting and then she asked if I wanted to come over.” He blushed again.

“Aw, that’s cute.” Chester smiled, making the others laugh.

“The question is: Does she want to spend time with you again disregarding of work?” The drummer asked.

Now the guitarist smiled. “She asked me if I would like to go on a date with her someday.”

“Yes! A woman who’s not afraid to ask the man for a date. I already like her.” The singer stated with a grin.

Everyone laughed out loud.

“Sam is throwing a party this Friday. You can ask her if she would like to go with you or us.” Mike suggested.

“Great idea Noda.” Dave smiled.

“Um, yeah, I’ll ask her.” Brad answered with a soft smile. He really liked the idea. “But, um, can we focus back on making music now?” He asked.

The rest of the band giggled again. The guitarist didn’t like to be the center of attention.

Two hours later they were done and after packing up their stuff, they sat around, making small talk.

“Say Rob, do your parents own a record player?” Mike asked the drummer. They both sat on the black couch.

The other one thought for a second. “I’m not sure. Why?” He replied.

“My mom send me my old records but I have nothing to listen to them.” The MC grinned.

“I see. Well, I’ll ask them and get back to you.” Rob answered with a smile.

“Thank you.” Mike said before getting up. “Do we want to order something to eat or should we go out?” He asked, looking at the others.

“I don’t care as long as we eat something.” Joe grinned, making the rest of them laugh.

Linkin Park – Easier to run

Chapter Text

Chapter 8 - Coziness

Darkness was all that surrounded Mike as he slowly opened his eyes. Something had woken him up. Suddenly he knew what was bothering him. He got up mumbling. ’I hope I can fall back asleep again.’ He thought as he made his way to the bathroom. He really needed to pee.

After a few minutes he went back to his room. He slowly closed the door, not wanting to make any noise that could disturb his roommates. Crawling back in his bed he suddenly touched something unfamiliar. “What the fuck?” He cursed loud as it moved and jumped off the bed.

“It’s me.” The voice of the singer sounded in the dark.

Mike breathed heavily. “Chaz? Are you fucking crazy? I almost got a heart attack!”

“Sorry but I thought it would scare you even more when you’d enter the room, and someone talks to you all of a sudden.” Chester replied whispering.

“Seems like that was a stupid idea.” The other one answered, a hint of anger in his voice, running his hand through is hair. There was no way he could fall back asleep now.

“I’m sorry.” The singer sounded sad.

Mike sighed. “It’s alright, you’ve really just scared me to death.” His heartbeat slowed down again. Carefully he got back into bed, maneuvering his way along the silhouette of his friend which he was able to see now as his eyes got used to the darkness.

A few minutes past. The MC lied on his back and could feel the singer’s eyes on him. “What’s wrong?” He asked in a whisper, turning his head to the left to look at him.

“I wanted to ask you the same.” Chester replied.

“I don’t know. I feel wide awake all of a sudden.” He answered with a grin.

The man next to him giggled. “Sorry.”

“It’s okay, I’ll just start counting sheep or something like that.” He smiled.

“I have a better idea.” The other one whispered and moved closer. “Turn on your right side.” His breath suddenly hit Mike’s ear, making him getting goosebumps.

“Um, what are you planning to do? Should I be scared?” He asked, feeling a little insecure for whatever reason.

Chester giggled. “No, but I know something that’ll help you to relax and get tired again.”

The half-Japanese turned around and jumped a little as his friend started to run his hand through his hair, slowly massaging his scalp. Every now and then the singer let his hand wander down the other one’s spine as well.

After a minute the singer’s voice softly sounded again. “Do you like that?”

“Uh-huh” The half-Japanese answered, trying his best not to moan. He really enjoyed what his friend was doing. ’Gosh, that feels so good. Too good.’ Mike felt how this started to turn him on. ’Great, I’m not used to getting affection anymore.’ He thought, knowing he would need to end this soon. Going to the bathroom again to jerk off wasn’t an option. He let a few more seconds' pass. “Alright, let’s get back to sleep now. Thank you.” He whispered.

“Okay, good night love.” Chester answered, pulling his hand back and moving further away again.

“Night Chaz.” The other one replied, not moving. He would rather turn around, falling asleep with his friend in his arms. But he knew, his hard-on would probably be misunderstood.

“Chester?” A voice asked in a whisper. Mike’s mind slowly started to wake up. “Chester?” It sounded again. He opened his eyes and let his gaze wander around his room. At the door Brad looked at him smiling. The way his two friends were cuddling you could really think they are more than just friends. “Morning Noda.” The guitarist said. The half-Japanese rubbed his eyes. “Morning.” He answered, his voice sounded rough.

“I’m sorry to bother you that early guys but Chester, your phone seems to go crazy in your room.” Brad looked at the singer now. “Alright, I’m off to work. See you later.”

As he was gone Mike started to stretch, only to realize that his friend lied on his left arm, snuggled up against his body.

“Morning love.” The singer looked at him with a soft smile. He was tired still. The other one just smiled. His brain wasn’t fully functioning yet.

“Guess I should check my phone.” Chester said, sat up straight and stretched his upper body before he got out of bed.

The half-Japanese yawned. ‘What time is it?’ He thought and turned around to check the time. ’7 a.m.? Fuck, that’s really early.’ After putting his phone away he rolled over again, closing his eyes.

A few seconds later he heard footsteps coming closer and then the mattress under him started moving slightly. He jumped a little as someone lifted his right arm. He peeked and saw the singer, just in his boxers, getting under the blanket again, pressing his back against the MC and taking his arm to place it over his upper body. Mike smiled. He really enjoyed the warmth and physical contact.

Suddenly Chester rose to speak. “Can you wake me up in about an hour?” His voice sounded dull as he had covered himself up to his nose.

“Sure, just wake me up in about an hour.” The other on giggled, making the singer laugh before snuggling a little more into his neck.

A loud melody disturbed the peaceful silence. It was the ringtone of Chester’s phone.

“Sorry love but I gotta go.” The blonde one sighed and turned around to face his friend. “Jeremy called in sick today. Sam texted me to ask if I could help out and come to work early or even right away if Nicole can’t come.” He explained. “Seems like she can’t.”

“Can I stay here?” Mike asked in a low voice, eyes closed again.

The singer giggled once more. “Gosh, you look so fucking cute right now.”

His counterpart grinned.

“Do you need to set an alarm?”

The MC shook his head.

“Well, then go back to sleep.” The singer said, quickly stroking his friend’s head and got out of bed.

Chapter Text

Chapter 9 – The truth

“And then they looked at me like I was the freak.” The voice of Elisa sounded, making everyone laugh. A few of the guests of the party, including Mike, Chester, Brad, Elisa and Rob were sitting around the bonfire. The company of the guitarist was telling a story from work.

“She’s funny. I like her.” The singer whispered into Mike’s left ear, making him getting goosebumps. They have been at Sam's party for round about five hours now and all were a little drunk already.

“Yeah, me too.” The MC smiled, looking into the glassy eyes of his friend next to him. Chester yawned and let his head rest against the other one’s shoulder.

“Tired?” Mike asked in a quiet voice, leaning his own head on the singer’s one.

“Nope, just a little tipsy.” He replied and giggled.

“Can relate.” The half-Japanese laughed. “So, do you want another drink?” He asked with a grin, carefully moving his body so the other one wouldn’t fall over.

“I still have some beer left but thank you.” The singer replied after sitting up straight again, showing his half full bottle of beer.

“Alright, I’ll be right back.” The MC said with a smile, got up and made his way to the kitchen.

As he entered the house, Sam suddenly stood in front of him. “Um, can we talk?” She asked, looking kind of nervous.

The MC rose an eyebrow. “Sure.” He replied and they went into a quieter corner of her backyard.

“I like you.” Sam stated as they’d stopped. Even though it wasn’t very bright where they were standing, you could see how her face turned red.

“Um, what?” Mike looked at her questioning.

“I like you.” She repeated and blushed even more. “I mean I have a crush on you.”

“Oh, um, I, um I don’t know what to say.” This caught him by surprise.

Sam looked sad know.

“Don't you like Chester? I mean you have kind of ignored me for a while.” He asked, visibly confused.

His counterpart looked to the ground. “I wanted to make you jealous.”

There was silence for a few seconds.

“So, you and Chaz never, um.”

“What? No.” Sam interrupted him. “I just thought, um, that you would get jealous if I would flirt with him and um, that you would realize that you like me too.”

Mike could see that she felt very embarrassed but somehow, he kind of felt happy right now.

“I’m gay.” He said with a straight face.

“What?” She looked at him confused.

“I’m sorry Sam, but I’m gay. I mean, I like you but not like that. I don’t like women like that in general.” The half-Japanese smiled weakly. He still felt sorry for her.

“You are gay?” She asked in disbelief.

Her counterpart nodded. “Are you mad?” Even though they have known each other for a while now this has never been a topic.

“What?” No. I’m just a little surprised and embarrassed, that’s all. Guys like you normally like girls I thought.” She blushed again, tucking some hair behind her left ear.

“What? What does ‘guys like me’ mean?” Mike raised an eyebrow.

Sam giggled. “Well, you’re good looking, funny and smart. I just thought you would date girls.” She replied.

Now the MC started laughing. He would never use those words to describe himself.

“I’m sorry, I know that it was a very childish thing to do. You would have every right to be mad at me.” She apologized and looked to the ground.

“It’s alright.” Mike smiled softly. “Hug?” He asked.

The woman in front of him smiled nodding.

“What took you so long?” Chester asked as the half-Japanese sat down next to him again.

“Sam told me that she likes me.” The other one answered, taking a sip from his beer.

“What?”

“Yeah, that’s why she was acting kind of weird lately. She has a crush on me. She didn’t know that I’m gay.” Mike laughed. He really wouldn’t have thought she liked him instead of Chester.

“Oh right, she did ask me some weird questions about you a while ago. I thought she just wasn’t really good at small talk.” The singer said laughing, scratching the back of his head nervously. “Sorry, I should have suspected something.” Chester blushed.

Suddenly it hit him. “Wait. What?” He looked at his friend in disbelief. “You are gay?” He paused. “I really thought you would date girls. I mean I’ve never heard you talk about or see you with someone one the other hand.” He suddenly felt sorry. He didn’t want to jump to conclusions.

The MC started laughing. The alcohol in his blood made this situation even funnier. He didn’t mind that others thought he was straight but two people in a row was just hilarious.

“So, your hard-on every other night was not just because you had a nice dream?” Chester then asked, raising an eyebrow.

Now Mike froze for a second. “What? Um, no, I swear to God, I never wanted to take advantage of you.” He said, his heart started beating faster. He had always tried to hide this reaction of his body from his friend. What if the other one thought he was disgusting after all those nights they had spent together especially now since he knew that he liked men?

“Never?” Chester replied shocked but soon a smirk appeared on his face.

The MC didn't understand. Didn’t his friend mind?

“Oh, come on Mikey, I really could use a boost of my self-esteem here.” The singer said laughing.

“What?” The half-Japanese looked lost.

“You’re adorable.” The petite one smiled softly. “I was just joking. I know that you’re not one who would take advantage of others.” He squeezed the MC’s hand slightly.

Mike felt relieved. He really was scared that his friend would be weirded out. “So, um, you’re not freaked out or mad?”

“What? No, why should I.” Chester answered before taking a sip of his beer. “The only thing I’m mad about is that it seems like you’ve not thought about me naked even once.” He grinned.

“I’ve never said that.” Mike smirked before he blushed. The beers had made him braver.

“Fuck, that’s hot.” The singer laughed out loud. “So, I really should start sleeping naked I guess.” He winked at him.

“Guys?” Dave’s voice sounded and within a few seconds he stood next to them. “Me and the others would head home now. Do you want to come with us?” He asked with a slightly heavy tongue.

Mikes mind was racing. ’Why did he wink at me? Is he gay too? Fuck, it would be weird asking him now, wouldn’t it?’

“Sure.” Chester answered, getting up. “Love?” He turned around to look at his friend.

“Um, yeah.” The other one answered, still a little perplex and got up as well.

“Night guys.” Brad smiled, holding hands with Elisa after they’d entered the apartment.

“Night.” Mike and Chester said in union while taking of their shoes and jackets.

“Love?” The singer asked, looking at his friend. “Can I sleep in your room? I guess they’re going to fuck, and I really don’t want to listen to that.” He stated laughing out loud. His room was right next to the one of the guitarists.

“Sure.” Mike replied laughing as well and they made their way into his room.

As both laid in bed, starring at the ceiling, the MC suddenly rose to speak. “I really thought Sam had a crush on you instead of me.”

Chester turned on his right side, facing his friend. “Really? Well, even if she did, my last relationship was awful. I’m really not looking for anything or anyone at the moment.” He replied, smiling weakly.

“Yeah, I know what you mean.” Mike answered. ’So, he does like women.’ He thought and sighed. “Night Chaz.”

The singer slid closer, snuggling up against his friend. “Night love.” He replied.

The MC smiled, wrapping his arms around the other one, pressing him a little more against his body. It didn’t matter if his friend was straight or gay. He still could enjoy moments like this.

Chapter Text

Chapter 10 – Changes

Three days later Mike stood in the kitchen, drinking coffee and thinking about the errands he needed to run before he had to sit down at his desk and get some work done. They had planned on practicing this afternoon again as well. Suddenly he heard the alarm of Chester’s phone going off. After a few seconds it was shut off immediately.

Ten minutes later there was still no singer to be seen as the MC stepped out of the bathroom. He knew his friend had the day off but if he had set an alarm there probably was something else, he needed to take care of. He quickly grabbed his coffee and made his way to him.

“Chaz? Don’t you need to get up?” Mike asked, after softly knocking on the door and stepping into the other one’s room.

“The person you’ve called is temporarily not available. Please try again later.” Chester mumbled into his pillow. He really was tired.

The MC giggled. “Come one.” He said and walked to the bed. “Do you want a sip from my coffee to awake a little more?” He asked, sitting down on the edge of the bed. ’Gosh, he’s so cute.’ He thought with a soft smile.

Chester opened his eyes, looking at his friend next to him. His head was still pressed into the pillow as he lied on his stomach. “Can you put the mug aside?” His voice was quiet.

Mike was confused but did as he was told.

Suddenly the singer moved, lifted his blanket and grabbed the half-Japanese to pull him towards his own body. The other one was caught off guard and therefore couldn’t react. After a few seconds he lied on his back next to Chester who covered them with the blanket. He then snuggled up against his friend, pressing his head into Mike’s neck. “See, it’s not that easy to get up if it’s that warm and cozy here.”

The MC giggled and carefully started to stroke the lower back of his friend. “Five more minutes and then we get up, okay?” He asked with a soft smile.

Chester just nodded, throwing his arm around the upper body of the other one, cuddling up to him a little more.

ding dong

The half-Japanese turned off the vacuum, looking around. He wasn’t sure if he had heard something.

ding dong

He put the vacuum aside. After the singer finally got up this morning, he was able to clean up.

He walked to the door and opened it with a soft smile.

“Mom?” Mike looked at the woman in front of him in surprise.

“Hello Michael.” She smiled.

“What are you doing here? Did something happen?” He asked. It was unusual for his mother to visit him just like that.

“No, everything’s fine. I was just near here and thought I’d say hello. Can I come in?” She replied.

The MC nodded, stepping aside.

“Love? Who’s there?” The voice of the singer suddenly sounded as he appeared from his room.

“Chester, that’s my mom. Mom, that’s Chester.” Mike answered.

“Oh, hello Mrs. Shinoda, nice to meet you.” The singer walked towards her to shake hands.

“You can call me Donna. Hello Chester.” She smiled friendly. Her son had already told her about his new roommate a few times. Even though he had never mentioned that they were that close already.

“Do you want a coffee?” Mike asked while leading her into the kitchen.

“No thank you but I have brought you some chicken soup. Did you eat the last one I’ve left in your freezer?” Mrs. Shinoda asked, reaching into her bag, pulling out a rather large container.

“That soup you gave me as I was sick the other day was from her?” Chester looked at the MC questioning.

The other one smiled nodding.

“Wow, it was delicious, and I think it cured whatever I had within a single night.” The petite man stated with a smile, remembering how his friend had taken care of him.

“Yeah, mom’s famous chicken soup could probably even cure a broken leg.” Mike laughed.

“Well, every good recipe has a secret ingredient.” Mrs. Shinoda smiled, looking at both men.

“And what’s yours Mrs., I mean Donna?” Chester asked with a grin.

“You can’t ask her that. She tells no one.” The half-Japanese interfered.

His mother took a few steps until she stood next to the singer. “Love.” She whispered into his left ear before she smiled at him.

“Hey! You’ve never told anyone your secrets before.” Mike stated surprised.

“Well, things change Michael.” She grinned, making Chester giggle.

Suddenly the sound of the opening front door made them turn their heads towards the hallway.

“Oh, hi Donna, nice to see you.” Brad said as he entered the apartment. “How are you?”

“Hello Bradford, I’m fine and you?” She greeted him with a smile.

“I’m fine too.” He replied, smiling as well, making his way towards her to give her a hug.

“Michael, can you put that into the freezer please?” She asked, pointing to the container on the counter and started to move to meet the brown-haired man halfway. “Are they a couple?” She whispered into his ear as they embraced each other.

Brad grinned. “At least they are not aware of it.” He answered quietly, shrugging his shoulders. Luckily both of his roommates were busy with storing the chicken soup.

“I see.” The elderly woman replied with a smile. “Alright boys, I need to go now. Your aunt will come over later and I really need to clean up a little bit beforehand.” Mrs. Shinoda explained to her son.

The men smiled and walked with her to the front door.

“Bye mom.” Mike said and hugged his mother tight.

“Bye Michael.” She replied before hugging Brad and Chester as well.

“Take care guys.” Mrs. Shinoda smiled.

“We will.” Brad answered with a soft smile.

“Oh, and Chester, this secret ingredient makes everything better by the way.” She winked at the singer.

He grinned. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

After the door closed, Mike looked at his friend. “What did she tell you? What’s the secret ingredient?” He really was curious.

“It’s not for nothing called a secret love.” The petite one giggled, slowly walking towards his room. At the door frame he turned around again. “Maybe, if you behave, I’ll tell you someday.” He winked and closed the door.

The MC still hadn’t moved. Why did his mother had told Chester and not him?

Brad laughed, noticing the look on his friend’s face and went to the bathroom.

Chapter Text

Chapter 11 – The past

“That’s also yours Chaz.” Rob said, holding the box with the food in front of his friend.

“Give me a second. I just need to text Sam back.” Chester replied, tipping on his phone.

“Alright. Thank you.” He said after a few seconds, put his phone in his pocket and took the box.

They had been practicing for two hours and were in the middle of their dinner now. Today it was Chinese food.

“So, what’s that with you and Sam?” Dave asked with a grin and mouth full of noodles.

“What do you mean?” Chester looked at him questioning while taking a bite of his eggroll.

“I don’t know. At the party the other day she was always looking in your direction.” The bassist explained. “And you communicate with her a lot.” He grinned.

The singer laughed out loud. “Sam had a crush on Mike, not me. And we communicate because we work together and because she wants to hook me up with her brother and I just told her I’m not looking for anyone at the moment.” He answered, shrugging his shoulders.

“Wait. You don’t like women?” The Korean looked at him questioning.

“Gosh, Joe, don’t say it like that.” Brad interfered, rolling his eyes.

“What? I didn’t mean it like that. I don’t care if he likes men or women, I was just surprised.” The DJ shrugged his shoulders.

Suddenly Chester grinned. “There’s no or.” He put the rest of the egg roll in his mouth.

Joe looked at him confused as the others started laughing.

“What are you laughing about? What do you mean with ‘there’s no or’?” The Korean asked, raising an eyebrow. He really didn’t understand.

“He means that he fucks men and women.” Rob answered.

There was silence for a few seconds.

“Oh, well, to each his own.” Joe replied, shrugging his shoulder again and focused back on his noodles.

The others exchanged a look and fell into a fit of laughter.

“Alright, now that we’re aware of Chester’s sexual preferences, can we finish eating and then focus on music again?” The guitarist asked with a soft smile.

The others nodded and they continued eating. Only Mike’s thoughts were running wild. ’Fuck. Wait. He’s bi?’ He thought and started to smile. ’Easy Shinoda. He said he isn’t looking for something or someone and you’re neither. If he would be interested in you, he would probably have made a move already.’ He shook his head slightly. They were just friends.

“Love?” Chester’s voice sounded after the MC saw how the door to his room had opened.

“Yeah?” He replied, lifting his head to watch the singer who stood next to his bed now after a few seconds.

The other one looked at him with a sad smile.

Mike’s heart hurt. He really felt sorry for is friend having those nightmares. He lifted his blanket and made some room for the other one to get in.

After Chester had rested his head on his friend’s arm, near the shoulder, he sighed.

The MC put his other arm around him, pressing him more against his body. Even though he really thought talking about his nightmares could help, he respected that his friend didn’t want to and just enjoyed comforting him.

“Do you miss your brother and dad?” Chester suddenly asked in a whisper.

This took Mike by surprise. He thought for a second. “Um, yeah, sometimes.“ He replied just as quiet. “But as I’ve reached my lowest point, I sought help and saw a therapist. I guess the pain will never fade, but things got easier.” His heart beat a little faster. It was kind of weird talking about it.

There was silence for a while and the half-Japanese started to fiddle with the hair of his friend. Slowly stroking his head and letting his hand wander to the neck every now and then.

“I’ve lost my mom to an overdose when I was ten.” The voice of the singer sounded. “I’ve found her in front of the toilette in the middle of the night as I got up to go to the bathroom.” He took a deep breath. “I’ve tried everything, but she just didn’t wake up anymore.” You could hear the pain in his voice.

There was silence for a few seconds. Now he knew what those nightmares were about. “Fuck, I’m sorry.” The MC replied. This was heartbreaking. “I, um, I don’t know what to say but thank you.”

The singer looked at him, raising an eyebrow. “Thank you? For what?”

“For telling me about it.” Mike smiled softly, stroking the other one's head again. “I guess it’s not easy for you and if there’s anything I can do to help you in any way, just tell me.”

“You already do.” Chester replied, smiling weakly before pressing his head against the other one’s chest, inhaling his scent. He really did feel safe here.

The half-Japanese planted a kiss on the singer’s head. This time not thinking about the fact that it may seem weird to the other one. He just wanted to show that he was there for him.

After a few seconds the petite one moved his head a little. “Love! What have you done?” He asked, eyes wide open, looking at him before turning on his back.

Mike’s heart started beating faster. Did he do something wrong? “Um, what?” He replied nervously.

“The stars!” The other one squeaked, pointing to the ceiling. It was covered with big and small stars made of plastic which glowed in the dark. It really looked like the midnight sky.

A grin appeared on the MC’s face.

“This is awesome!” Chester was excited and looked at his friend, a broad smile on his lips.

“I’m happy you like it. It took me about two hours.” Mike giggled. “I’ve tried to make some zodiac signs too. Yours is over there and mine is right above us.” He pointed to some of the glowing stars.

“My zodiac sign, really? Thank you.” The singer smiled sheepishly, reaching for the hand of his friend, squeezing it. He looked back at the ceiling, amazed.

“Yeah, so every time you come here after you had a nightmare, you have something that makes you happy.” The MC replied with a soft smile. He was glad that his friend liked it.

Chester turned to face the man next to him again. “But I already have that silly.” He smiled. “You.”

Mike blushed and wore a shy smile, making the other on giggle.

“Gosh, you are the cutest.” The singer replied. “Thank you.” And in the blink of an eye planted a quick kiss on his friends' lips, before looking at the ceiling again. “I really love it.”

The half-Japanese was flabbergasted. He knew it was just a friendly gesture, but he could feel how a small part of him wanted to try to make more out of it. He slightly shook his head, carefully taking a deep breath. “You’re welcome.” He answered.

Chester smiled at him again, slid a little closer and pulled the other one’s arm over his bare chest, still holding hands and looking at the ceiling.

After a while Mike felt how his eyes became heavy. He peeked to the left, looking at the singer who seemed to be sleeping peacefully already. The MC smiled. Carefully he pulled his friend a little closer, gave him another soft kiss on the forehead and closed his eyes as well.

Chapter Text

Chapter 12 - Signs

“Fuck, my head hurts.”, Mike sighed, massaging his temples as he stepped out of his room.

“What’s wrong love?” Chester asked, putting his phone away. He lied on the couch while Brad sat on the armchair and was playing games.

“I have this new assignment and this client changes her opinion every other minute and it’s driving me insane.” The MC answered, making his way towards his roommates. There, the singer made some room by sitting up straight so his friend could join him on the couch.

“Do you want to go out tonight to let off some steam?” The guitarist asked, not taking his eyes of the TV.

“Yeah, let’s go dancing.” The singer said excited.

“But I can’t dance.” The half-Japanese replied, resting his head on the cushion of the backrest and closed his eyes.

Brad paused his game, looking at his two roommates. “Yeah, we know.” He laughed.

Mike stuck his tongue out at him while running his hand over his face and through his hair. He could really use a break.

“We don’t have to go dancing. We can just go to a bar and have a drink or two.” Chester suggested while carefully pulling the MC towards himself. After a few seconds Mike’s head rested on the singer's thighs, eyes still closed. He trusted his friend and really was exhausted. The other one then started to slowly stroke his hair.

“Alcohol sounds good.” The half-Japanese replied with a soft grin, enjoying the touch. His headache already started fading.

Brad smiled as he watched them. It was funny how his friends never seem to notice how much they acted like a couple. “Alright, alcohol it is then.” He laughed and continued to play his video game. “I’ll text the others if they’d like to join us.”

Later all six of them were at the bar, having small talk and drinking beer.

“How many songs do we need to make an album?” Dave asked, putting a pretzel in his mouth.

“You are already thinking about making an album?” Rob asked, laughing out loud.

The bassist shrugged his shoulders.

“I’d say about ten at least.” Brad interfered and took a sip of his drink.

“So, only eight to go.” Dave said laughing.

“We should probably start selling EPs first.” Mike suggested. “Producing a whole album is expensive. Also, we do need to make sure people even want to hear our music.”

“He’s right.” The guitarist answered. “I guess we should have at least five songs and then start to see if a bar or any club would let us perform.”

The others nodded in agreement.

“Alright, I’ll go and get some more drinks.” Rob said and got up. “Any special wishes?” He looked around. As they all just asked for another beer, he made his way to the bar.

While Brad, Dave and Joe started to talk about this and that, Mike peeked at the man next to him. The singer seemed to be somewhere else in his mind.

“What’s wrong?” He asked quietly, squeezing Chester’s hand under the table to get his attention before he started stroking it slowly.

“What?” The singer jumped a little. “Sorry, I was lost in thoughts.” He whispered, smiling sheepishly.

“Are you alright? Do you need anything?” Mike looked at him.

Chester smiled, slightly shaking his head. “I’m fine, thanks love.” He replied, linking his arm with the MC’s one before holding hands under the table again.

“Okay.” The half-Japanese smiled softly and focused back on the conversation of his friends.

Two hours later the three of them were back at the apartment.

“Night.” Chester said after taking of his jacket and shoes and made his way into the bathroom.

“Night.” Brad replied. While stretching he followed Mike into the kitchen.

The MC grabbed a glass from the closet and filled it with tap water. “So, um, how are things between you and Elisa?” He asked, taking a sip.

The guitarist smiled softly. “Good.”

Mike grinned. “So, it really is something serious.”

His counterpart hesitated. “I don’t know. The sex is great, she’s funny and smart.” He replied.

“Sounds like a yes.” The other laughed out loud.

Suddenly the door to the bathroom opened again and the singer, only dressed in a black brief boxer appeared. With the rest of his cloths in his arms he passed the kitchen and went into his room.

The guitarist stuck his tongue out at Mike who giggled.

“Alright, I’m not asking any more questions.” He grinned. “But you know, someday you need to introduce her to us. Meeting at a party and having small talk isn’t enough.” The MC continued speaking, taking another sip from his water.

“We’ll see.” Brad replied with a grin.

Now Chester walked past them again and into Mikes room. Still only in his boxer.

“Well, whatever the status of your relationship is, if you’re happy, I’m too.” The MC smiled softly, emptied his glass and put it in the sink before he made his way to his room. “Night Brad.”

The guitarist looked puzzled before he smirked. How could the two of them still not see it?

Chapter Text

Chapter 13 - Trust

“Morning Noda.” Brad greeted his friend as he stepped into the kitchen.

“Morning.” The other smiled. “Coffee?” He asked, even though he knew the answer to that question already. His friend nodded and he poured some coffee into a mug and put it on the counter near the guitarist.

Brad yawned and took a seat. Mike sat down next to him and looked through some news on his phone.

“So, um, you and Chester are just friends, right?” The man with the curly brown hair asked his friend before taking a sip of his coffee.

The half-Japanese looked at him, rolling his eyes. “Yes.”

“Why aren’t you looking for a boyfriend then?” The other one asked.

“Because I don’t need a boyfriend.” Mike answered, rolling his eyes again. Why couldn’t the other one just leave him alone? He had a good job, a place to stay, great friends to talk to and to have fun with. And whenever he felt lonely, the singer was there to give him some physical contact. He kind of had more than one boyfriend already, just without the sex.

“What if I knew someone who would be perfect for you?” Brad asked with a grin.

“I’d say you’re lying.” The MC replied, focusing on his phone again.

“Oh, come on Mikey, give it a chance.” Brad looked at him with an encouraging smile. “If you don’t like him, I’ll never ever talk about that topic with you again. I promise.”

The half-Japanese sighed. Maybe the other one was right. He knew he shouldn’t get too attached to the singer anyway. And meeting new people was always something he did enjoy.

“What’s the worst that can happen? And even if you two are not going to be a couple or friends, you could just fuck.” Brad said, shrugging his shoulders.

Mike thought for a second. “Alright, but just for a coffee or a drink, nothing fancy.” He replied.

The guitarist smiled. “Yes!” He cheered. “I’ll set something up.”

knock knock

“Yeah?” Mike asked, not looking up and rather keep working on his laptop. To finish this assignment in time he needed to put some extra hours of work into it this evening.

“Hi love, still busy?” Chester’s voice sounded as he entered.

The other one nodded. “What’s up?”

“Nothing. I just wanted to say bye as I’ll head off to work now.” The singer smiled. “Jeremy asked me if I could do his night shift today and I’ll get his day off in return.”

“Oh.” The half-Japanese replied and turned to face him with a weak smile. Somehow, he felt disappointed. “Well, um, alright. See you tomorrow.”

“Bye love.” The other one smiled softly and left.

The MC run his hand through his hair. He had gotten used to his friend spending the night with him most of the time. It just felt good to have someone to cuddle with. ’Gosh, I really shouldn’t get attached to him that much.’ He thought, shaking his head, knowing, that someday this would end eventually.

Mike’s mind started to wake up slowly as he heard the front door open and then close again the next morning. ’That’s probably Chaz.’ He thought with a soft smile and pulled up his blanket a little more, knowing that it was too early to get up yet. His alarm wouldn’t go off until another hour.

Right as he drifted off to sleep again the door to his room opened. He peeked to see what was going on. Chester carefully closed the door and started to undress. After he had hung his clothes, now only wearing his brief boxers, over the chair at Mike’s desk, he tiptoed to the bed. The other one was watching him all along. The singer then slowly got in and under the blanket, lifting the MC’s arm to put it over his body, pressing his back against him. The half-Japanese inhaled the scent of his friend before he rose to speak after a few seconds. “Aren’t you making breakfast today?” He asked in a whisper.

The other one jumped a little. “Oh, sorry love, did I wake you?” He turned around to face him.

Mike smiled, shaking his head slightly. “Brad will be sad if there’s no food if he gets up later.” He answered, eyes only half open.

The singer giggled. “I’ve made coffee and bought some open sandwiches for the two of you.” He snuggled up against the other one again. “I wanted to enjoy some time here before you need to get up and I’ll be alone in my bed.”

The MC smiled softly, wrapping his arms around Chester and pressing him against his body. It didn’t take long before both fell asleep.

Mike looked at himself in the mirror. He felt anxious and excited at the same time. He never had a real date before even less a blind date. ’Easy Shinoda, you’re just going to get a drink with a completely stranger.’ He thought and started to brush his teeth. One day after his friend had convinced him to go out with someone, the guitarist had already confirmed a day and time. ’Everything will be just fine.’ He tried to calm himself down. ’Brad said that this guy is smart, funny and nice. There’s no need to worry. And if the worst comes to the worst, I’ll make up an excuse and leave.’

The sound of the moving door handle made him jump. “Just a second.” He yelled and finished brushing his teeth.

“It’s alright, I just have to pee.” Chester’s voice sounded and after a few seconds you could hear him walk away again.

Mike sighed. For whatever reason he hasn’t told his friend about his date yet. “If it goes well, I’ll tell him about it.” He said to his reflection in the mirror before he gathered his clothes from the ground and made his way into his room to get dressed.

Chapter Text

Chapter 14 – This is not a date!

As Mike arrived at the address Brad had given him, he looked around. It has been a while since he had visited this bar. “Be open for new experiences.” He whispered to himself and entered the building. He was early but this meant that he could already have a drink to loosen up a bit.

“Hi love.” The voice of Chester made him turn his head.

“Chaz? What are you doing here?” Mike asked. It wasn’t typical for the singer to come here.

“Um, what do you mean?” The other one asked, sitting down opposite of his friend.

“Well, neither you nor I or anyone of us come here often.” The MC answered, checking the time on his phone. There were still ten minutes left before his date would be here.

“Um, is this a joke or something like that?” Chester looked at him confused. “Brad told me you wanted to meet me here.”

There was silence for a few seconds before it hit the Emcee. “This asshole.” He hissed.

“Did I miss something?” The other one asked before focusing on the waiter that arrived at their table, taking his order.

“Brad had convinced me to go on a date today.” Mike explained. “But he didn’t give me any real details about the man, and I know why now.”

“Oh, um, okay and I’m here to rescue you if he’s a weirdo?” The singer grinned.

“Well, he’s a weirdo but in a good way.” The MC replied, laughing out loud. As his friend still looked confused, he continued. “Brad set us both up on a date. With each other.”

“What?” Chester asked, now laughing out loud as well. “Really? Well, I didn’t see that coming.” He grinned.

“Yeah, I’m sorry. Let me finish my beer and we can go home.” Mike smiled weakly. Even though he was skeptical at the beginning, he kind of was excited to have a date today.

“What? Why?” Chester looked at him questioning as his drink was placed in front of him. “We still can have fun.” He smiled taking a sip of his beer.

“So, um, we’re having a date now?” The MC asked, his heart started to beat a little faster.

His counterpart smirked before his features soften. He could see that his friend felt a little uneasy. “We don’t need to call it that. We can just spend some time together as friends like we always do.” He shrugged his shoulders.

Mike smiled. He liked that idea. They always met as a group but as he and Brad had moved here, it was just the two of them going out at the beginning.

“But we are still going to kick his ass later?” He grinned, making the other one laugh out loud.

“Of course.” The singer replied with a grin.

“Would you like to go somewhere else?” Mike asked, taking the last sip of his beer. He was a little drunk already. Two hours have passed, and they had fun, talking about this and that but mostly about music.

“Sure.” The singer smiled.

“Any ideas?” He looked at him questioning.

Suddenly Chester smirked. “Where would you go if this really was a date?” He too felt tipsy.

Mike blushed. He never has had a real date before with going to different locations and stuff like that. He shrugged his shoulders, scratching his neck nervously.

The singer reached out to grab his friend’s right hand, squeezing it slightly. “It’s alright, you don’t have to be ashamed of anything.” He smiled.

“I didn’t have that many relationships yet and never have been on a real date. We just met at a bar or at a club.” He laughed nervously.

“Yeah, me neither. I mean I’ve tried but at some point, every relationship became different.” Chester answered with a shy smile.

“So, what would normal people do now? Where would they go? We could practice some dating behavior for future dates.” Mike stated laughing. He was glad that his friend didn’t judge him.

“Great idea!” Chester smiled. “Let’s see.” He thought for a second. “I guess after a nice dinner or a drink, you would normally go on a walk or something like that.”

“Yeah, sounds about right. Well, let’s try it.” The MC replied, calling the attention of the waiter. “It’s on me.” He looked at the singer who was reaching for his wallet that second.

“Thank you.” The other one said, smiling softly.

After the half-Japanese had paid, he got up, grabbed his jacket and hold out his hand. “Ready?” He asked his friend.

Chester nodded, taking the hand of the other one and they went outside.

“Fuck, the fresh air wasn’t a great idea.” Mike said laughing as they were walking along the canal, holding hands. He felt really dizzy.

“Yeah, the alcohol doesn’t go well with it.” Chester replied smiling, resting his head on the left shoulder of the other one.

“So, the first note we should make is: Don’t drink too much on a date.” The MC giggled.

“Or just don’t go outside.” The singer answered, giggling as well.

“Should we take a break to let the alcohol fade off a little?” Mike asked, looking around to find a place to sit down.

The other one just nodded.

As they set down on a bench, Mike stretched before letting his arms rest on the back rest. Chester leaned against his friend’s shoulder, looking at the lights of the city on the other side of the canal. “It’s really pretty here.” He stated.

“Yeah.” The other one answered, letting his gaze wander.

After a few minutes of silence, the singer yawned and folded his arms in front of his chest. As it was getting late it also got a little chilly.

The movement caught the MC’s attention. He took his jacket, which he had put next to him on the bench and placed it over the other one’s shoulders before throwing his arm around him again, pressing him a little more against his body. “Do you want to go home?” He asked in a low voice.

Chester shrugged his shoulders. “I’m just a little tired and the alcohol isn’t helping.” He giggled slightly. “By the way, noticing that the other one is freezing and giving him your jacket is something you definitely need to put on the list.” He looked up, facing his friend. “Thank you.” He smiled sheepishly.

“You’re welcome.” Mike replied with a soft smile.

“You are such a gentleman love.” The singer winked, making the other one laugh.

“Alright, let’s go home, it’s really getting kind of cold now.” Mike said and pressed his friend once more against his body before carefully getting up.

The singer smiled, grabbing the hand of the half-Japanese.

Chapter Text

Chapter 15 – Validation

Silence greeted both as they entered the apartment.

“Brad? Where are you? We want to kick your ass.” Chester yelled laughing. The alcohol really unfolded.

“Seems like he has left because he knew we would kill him.” Mike laughed, suddenly noticing a piece of paper on the kitchen counter. As he stepped closer, taking the note in his hand it took a few seconds for his eyes to focus. He was clearly drunk.

“Hi guys, you are whether all over each other or you’ve planned to kill me. 😉

However, I’m in a safe place and you can be as loud as you want 😉

Love, Brad.” The note read.

“He’s such a coward.” The singer laughed out loud, now standing next to the MC, leaning his head on his shoulder.

The other one giggled and yawned. The alcohol was really getting to him too. “I guess we need to kick his ass tomorrow.” He smiled. “Bedtime?”

Now Chester yawned as well before he nodded, grabbing Mike’s hand and they both made their way into the MC’s room.

After they had changed and lied in bed for a few minutes Chester suddenly started laughing.

“What’s so funny?” Mike asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Well, somehow this kind of ends like the dates I had so far.” The other one replied. “In bed.”

The MC blushed before he spoke. “I’ve never brought someone home with me the first time.”

“Never?” Chester turned to his side and looked at him in disbelief.

The other one shook his head embarrassed.

“That’s not a bad thing love, don’t be ashamed.” The singer grabbed the hand of his friend. “I was just wondering. I mean, what do you do when you realize that it’s nothing more than just sexual attraction?” He genuinely was curious.

“I get turned down.” Mike shrugged his shoulders.

“What?” The singer sat up straight, looking confused. “Are you serious?” A hint of anger in his voice.

“Um, yeah. But as I said, I never really had a date in the first place.” The MC replied, still laying on his back.

“Some humans are trash. I mean, who wouldn’t want to fuck you?” Chester said, shaking his head. He really didn’t understand. “Believe me, whoever turns you down is an idiot.”

The other one blushed, smiling sheepishly.

“See, you are just the cutest.” The singer giggled and lied down again but this time letting his head rest on the half-Japanese's stomach so he could look at him. “I’m sorry that you had such bad experience.” He sounded sad.

Mike yawned before he smiled softly. “Don’t be, it’s not your fault.” He started to stroke Chester’s head, fiddling with his hair. “We did some good research today, I’m sure I’ll be better on a date next time.” He grinned.

“Well, I’d give you ten out of ten.” The petite one giggled before he thought for a second. “Even though I can’t rate the most important thing of a date.” He stated.

The other one raised his eyebrow. “What’s that?”

“The Kiss.” Chester answered matter of fact.

Mike just nodded. “Right, but I think I’m not that bad at kissing.” He shrugged his shoulders.

“That’s what I’d say about myself and blow jobs.” The singer replied with a smirk. Both burst into laughter. They were really drunk.

“Unfortunately, I’m too drunk to prove you that I’m right.” Chester continued speaking with a grin.

“That’s a bummer.” The MC giggled. The alcohol made him more confident. “Do I need to prove to you that I’m a good kisser?” He asked in good faith.

The other one thought for a second. “I mean, it wouldn’t hurt to get another opinion, would it?”

Mike shook his head as the face of the singer came closer already.

Within the blink of an eye their faces were only a few inches away. It felt like time stood still as the half-Japanese could feel the other one’s breath on his lips. And just like that they kissed. Instinctively the hands of the MC made their way to the singer’s face, holding on to it as he reinforced the kiss. It became even more passionate as their tongues met. Now Mike slowly placed his right arm around Chester, moving both of their bodies so the singer was on his back and he above him.

After a minute they stopped, looking at each other, both a little out of breath.

“Fifteen out of ten.” Chester was the first one to speak, a grin appeared on his lips. Mike giggled. “Thank you.” He replied, letting go of his friend and lied on his back again. His heart was still racing.

Another minute passed.

“Love?” The singer asked after he’d slid closer, snuggling up against his friend and throwing his left leg over the other one's lower body.

“Hm?”

“Do you have a hard-one?”

Without hesitation the other one answered. “Yeah.” The sober part of his brain which would be embarrassed now was already asleep.

“Me too.” Chester replied, pressing his lower body a little more against his friend to prove it, making him giggle. “You are really good at kissing.”

“You too.” Mike said in a low voice.

After a few seconds the singer rose to speak again. “Night love.”

“Night Chaz.”

Tired, drunk and a little aroused they both fell into a deep slumber.

Chapter Text

Chapter 16 - Prove

“Fuck.” Mike mumbled, holding his head as he started to wake up. ’I guess I shouldn’t have drunk that three shots of Tequila.’ He thought. Slowly he looked around. The daylight was already shining through the curtains.

After checking his phone for the time, he turned around again.

In front of him was Chester, still fast asleep. The MC smiled before he blushed. The memory of yesterday had found its way into his mind. He took a deep breath. There was nothing he needed to be ashamed of. They were friends who were just having fun and he had really enjoyed the evening. Also, he could always blame his actions on the alcohol. ’I wish I wouldn’t have been that drunk. I can barely recall the feeling of kissing him.’ He grinned. He had really liked that. “Chaz?” He asked in a low voice and started to stroke the singer’s hair. He looked cute sleeping like that.

A minute passed and the petite one slowly opened his eyes. As he looked at his friend a soft smile appeared on his lips.

“Morning. Coffee?” Mike asked in a whisper, still stroking Chesters head.

“Yes, but please don’t talk that loud.” The other one replied with a weak smile. He too had a headache.

The MC grinned. “A coffee and some painkillers, alright.” He answered quietly and carefully got out of bed.

After he had brought his friend a glass of water and some painkillers, he went back to the kitchen. He knew it would be best if they would also have a light breakfast. He took a few pieces of bread and put them into the toaster. While cracking up the fourth egg he heard how the singer made his way to the bathroom, humming a melody.

Mike sneaked a peak at his friend who was only wearing a brief white boxer. He grinned. ’Wow, he’s really hot. Guess I just added a new image to my fantasies.’ He slightly shook his head. Now wasn’t the right time to think about something like that.

A few minutes passed and Chester took a seat on one of the bar stools next to the MC, now fully dressed. “Thank you.” He smiled and put some scrambled eggs in his mouth. “Now I know how you feel every time I make you breakfast.” He giggled.

“Don’t get used to it. You’re way better with the spices.” Mike grinned, taking a bite from his toast.

“If you behave, I’ll tell you the secret ingredient.” The singer answered with a smirk.

The other thought for a second. “Is it salt?” He grinned.

“How do you know?” Chester asked, playfully shocked and they both fell into a fit of laughter.

They ate in silence for a little while.

“Do you need to work today?” The singer asked before taking a sip of his coffee.

Mike shook his head. “Nope. I don’t have an assignment right now. You?” He looked at the man next to him questioning.

“No, I have the day off.” The other one replied. “Do you wanna watch a movie together or something like that?”

The MC thought for a second. “Guess we should allow our bodies some rest today.” He laughed out loud. “So, yeah, but please nothing too scary.”

Chester giggled. “Roger that.”

An hour later they both lied on the sofa. Mike on his back, head turned to the left to watch the documentary they had decided on. Chester was snuggled up against the other one’s right side, his head rested on his friends' shoulder while the MC absent-mindedly stroke his back.

“Love?”

“Hm?” The other one replied, not taking his eyes of the TV.

“I’m horny.” Chester stated, making the MC froze. He hadn’t expected that.

“Um, sorry.” He said, after turning his head to face him, stopping the movement on his friend’s lower back.

The singer giggled. “Do you remember what I’ve told you in bed yesterday? About what I’m good at?” He smirked.

It took the other one a few seconds to know what his friend was talking about. His eyes widened.

“Gosh, you are the cutest.” Chester laughed. “So, um what’d you say?” He asked while letting his right hand wander down from the MC’s chest to the waistband of his sweatpants.

Mike didn’t know how to react, even though he could feel that the thought alone was turning him on. Of course, the singer had been part of a few sexual fantasies and it has been a long time since he had been touched like that, but should they really take that step?

“Sorry love, I didn’t want you to feel uncomfortable.” The other one smiled apologetically, his hand still moving along the waistband.

“I mean, I could prove what I’m good at, so it’d only be fair if you’d have the same chance.” Mike replied with a grin, aware that his friend could notice his growing erection now. What was the worst that could happen, if they had a little fun?

Chester looked at Mike’s crotch and then back at him with a smirk. “True.” He answered and in the blink of an eye had moved to the lower part of the half-Japanese's body.

After the MC got more comfortable on his back, he closed his eyes, enjoying the touch of the other one. The singer hadn’t lied about his skills.

It didn’t take long for Mike to start moaning. “Fuck, Chaz.” He said under his breath, feeling that he was about to climax already. Automatically his hand hold on the singer's blonde hair.

Right away the movements of Chester became faster and after another minute the MC came, not able to hold it back any longer.

As the half-Japanese opened his eyes again, the other one looked at him with a smile. “Fifteen out of ten.” Mike stated with a grin, breathing more heavily, making the other one giggle. “Thank you.” The singer replied, pulling his friends clothes back up.

Suddenly they heard footsteps at the front door of their apartment. Both exchanged a look and Chester quickly planted a kiss on the Emcees lips before he got up. “The way you moan my name is really hot by the way.” He winked at him. “Do you want something to drink?” He asked and made his way to the kitchen.

Chapter Text

Chapter 17 – Still the same

“Oh, hi.” Brad's voice sounded as he entered the door and saw Chester on his way to the kitchen.

Mike was still a little flabbergasted. The singer had just given him a blow job and a kiss. ’Did he just say that the way I moan was sexy?’ He shook his head to get rid of those thoughts. He sat straight up to look over the backrest of the couch and at the guitarist.

“And hi Mike, you’re here too.” Brad smiled sheepishly.

“You know that you’re an asshole, right?” The MC asked, keeping a straight face. He tried his best to sound mad but after what had happened a few seconds ago it wasn’t easy to hate the other one.

“He’s right.” Chester said while taking two water bottles out of the fridge and turning around to face Brad.

The guitarist took off his jacket and shoes. “I’m sorry.” He smiled apologetically, scratching the back of his head. “I just thought you two would have some fun together.” He grinned. He really hoped his friends wouldn’t be too mad at him.

“We did.” Chester answered with a smile before his face came serious again. “But we would also have fun without you setting up a date for us.” He made his way to the couch, handing the half-Japanese a bottle.

“Yeah, we are grown men. We can decide for ourselves if we want to go on a date or something like that.” Mike replied, sneaking a peak at the singer next to him. He could sense that he too had a hard time keeping a straight face.

Brads smile faded. “Um, I’m sorry guys. I just really thought it would be a good idea.”

The other two looked at him, not saying a word.

“Would you stop being mad at me if I’d say I owe you one?” He asked.

Mike and Chester exchanged a look before focusing back on their friend, nodding. “Alright. You owe both of us one favor.” The singer answered with a smile.

“Deal. But nothing weird.” The guitarist replied with a grin. “I’ll go and take a shower now.”

“We’ll see.” The MC said, smiling as well.

After their friend disappeared into the bathroom, they looked at each other with a smirk before they started to giggle.

“We really need to think about something mean he has to do for us.” Chester stated with a grin.

The half-Japanese nodded and suddenly he sneezed.

“Bless you.” The petite one said.

“Thank you.” Mike replied.

“Are you getting sick love?” Chester looked at him concerned.

The MC smiled, shaking his head. “Nah, I’m fine.”

“Alright.” The singer replied with a soft smile and turned around to focus back on the TV. Mike took a sip from his water before doing the same. After he had put the bottle down on the coffee table, he got comfortable on the couch again. It didn’t take long until Chester moved closer. A few minutes later they lied on the couch just like they did before. The MC on his back and the singer at his side.

The next day they met in Rob’s basement again.

“I've put my trust in you
Pushed as far as I can go
For all this
There's only one thing you should know

I tried so hard
And got so far
But in the end
It doesn't even matter
I had to fall
To lose it all
But in the end
It doesn't even matter” Brad read the lyrics with which they had come up so far. He sat on one of the wooden chairs, looking at his friends.

“I’d add those other lines we’ve talked about earlier.” Mike interfered while absent-mindedly fiddling with Chester’s hair. The MC sat on the couch; the singer’s head rested on his thighs.

“Yeah, you could rap them, and Chaz could just repeat every other word or just the last ones like an echo.” Dave said, looking into the distance as he was thinking about his idea. He and Rob were both sitting in a bean bag and the Korean had taken a seat on the armchair.

“Sounds good.” The singer said, making a note. He held the notepad above his head as he was lying on his back.

“I’ve ordered a mic so we can record everything.” The drummer said with a smile before checking his phone. “Can we call it a day now? I have a training course tomorrow and I need to check my notes, so I’ll get everything right and the employees actually learn something from me. Also, I need to get some more rest, so I won’t fall asleep during the training.” He laughed out loud.

Suddenly Mike yawned. “Yeah, I’m in.” He rubbed his eyes. He really was tired.

“No problem. We can finish up this song the next time.” The guitarist interfered with a soft smile. “But before I forget, have you thought about your birthday yet?” He looked at the half-Japanese questioning.

The other one shook his head. “I don’t know. We can just hang around at our apartment and drink some beer.” The MC answered, shrugging his shoulders.

“Oh, come on Mikey, a little party would hurt no one.” Rob said with a grin and got up to stretch.

“He’s right. It’s your birthday love, you need to celebrate.” Chester interfered, looking up to face his friend.

“Can I think about that another day?” The half-Japanese asked with a soft smile before he yawned again.

The other’s nodded in agreement and they all started to get ready and head home.

As Mike stepped out of the bathroom, after getting ready for bed, he sneezed. ’Gosh, is this my allergy?’ He thought and went through the different sources for a current allergy attack in his mind.

“Are you sick?” Brad’s voice made him jump. The guitarist stuck his head out of his room. A hint of panic in his eyes.

“It’s probably just my allergy.” The MC responds with a soft smile.

“Whatever. Keep your germs to yourself.” The other one answered and closed his door again.

Mike smiled, shaking his head. His friend really needed to work on his fear of diseases.

“Maybe it was a little too cold on the bench the other day?” Chester said, suddenly standing next to the half-Japanese. “Did you eat enough today?” He asked and held his hand on the forehead of the other one. “At least you’re not hot.”

“I’m not?” The MC acted playfully shocked, making his friend giggle.

“Of course, you’re hot, but you don’t have a fever.” He answered with a grin. “Go to bed now. Do you want me to bring you a tea or something like that?” The singer linked arms with the other one, leading him to his room.

“Nah, I’m fine, thanks.” Mike smiled softly.

He carefully got in bed and snuggled up under the blanket.

“Tell me if you need anything, okay?” Chester asked with a soft smile, now standing at the door, turning off the light.

The MC nodded. ’Why isn’t he sleeping here today?’ He thought and was disappointed. He did feel a little weak and could really have used some physical affection. He sighed and closed his eyes. At least he could rest now.

“I’ve brought you some water in case you get thirsty at night.” The voice of the singer suddenly sounded again, making the half-Japanese jump, as he placed a bottle of water on the nightstand next to him.

“Thank you.” The MC whispered.

The other one shot a smile and made his way to the door. After closing it he took off his shirt, pants and socks, hung them over the chair and got in bed next to Mike.

The MC smiled.

“Night love.” The singer whispered, cuddling up against him.

“Night Chaz.” Mike replied just as quiet.

Linkin Park – In The End

Chapter Text

Chapter 18 - Benefits

beep beep beep

Mike felt a movement next to him. He slowly peeked to see what was going on. Chester quickly turned off the alarm before carefully trying to get out of bed.

“Where are you going?” The MC asked in a whisper, making his friend jump.

“Oh, morning love, how do you feel?” The other one said, turning around with a soft smile.

Mike shrugged his shoulders. “Alright I guess.”

The singer moved closer again, running his hand through the black tousled hair of his friend. “You should use today to have some rest. Unfortunately, I need to get ready for work now, but I’ll make you soup for breakfast, okay?” He smiled.

The half-Japanese just nodded. He felt better than yesterday but still a little weak and tired.

“Gosh, it should be illegal to look as cute as you are looking right now.” Chester giggled, making the other one blush, before he got out of the bed again. “Try to get some more sleep. I’ll be back in twenty minutes” He said before taking his clothes from the chair and leaving the room.

Mike smiled. He liked being taken care of and he would really enjoy some of his mother's soup.

The half-Japanese slowly opened his eyes. After the singer had left for work, he went to the bathroom, ate his soup and then had fallen asleep again. Carefully he sat up straight and stretched. ’Wow, this soup really cures everything.’ He thought with a smile. He felt a lot better.

After getting out of bed he took some fresh clothes and made his way to the bathroom. A shower and a coffee were all he needed now.

As he stepped into the kitchen the voice of the guitarist made him jump.

“Hi Noda, still sick?” He asked, keeping his distance.

Mike turned around smiling after pouring himself some coffee. “No, I’m fine.” He replied, taking a sip. “I guess it was the same thing Chaz had a while ago. But fifteen hours of sleep and some of my mother's soup helped.” He grinned.

“Alright, I still have disinfected all door handles.” The other one laughed.

“I know.” The MC replied laughing as well, knowing that his friend really had done that.

The sound of the opening front door made them turn their heads to the hallway.

Chester entered the apartment, a bag of groceries in his hands.

“Hi Brad.” He greeted the curly haired man as he made his way towards the kitchen. “Love, shouldn’t you still be in bed?” He asked as he noticed the MC.

Mike smiled. “I’ve slept for the last fifteen hours straight. I feel fine.” He laughed.

“But you should still take it easy today.” The singer stated while putting away the groceries.

“He’s right.” Brad interfered, taking some cookies out of the bag Chester had brought with him. “Can I have these?” He looked at the petite one with a grin.

“Well, you can have some but not all of them.” The singer answered laughing. “And you’ll get back in bed. I’ll make you something light to eat and we can watch a movie or so. You really need to rest some more.” He demanded, looking at Mike as he was finished with putting everything away.

The MC giggled. “Yes dad.”

Chester stuck his tongue out at him. “I go and take a shower and you can think about what movie we are going to watch.” He smiled and made his way to the bathroom.

As the door clunk shut Brad looked at Mike with a broad grin, biting into his cookie.

“What?” The other one asked before taking the last sip of his coffee.

“Wow, you really don’t see it, do you?”

The MC looked at him confused.

“Do you know why neither you nor Chester are looking for a relationship at the moment?”

“Um, cause we don’t need someone else to be happy?” The half-Japanese raised an eyebrow.

The guitarist laughed out loud almost spitting pieces of the cookie everywhere. “Gosh, Noda. Think about it. You two live together. Make each other breakfast. Take care of the other one if he’s sick. You laugh with each other and comfort one another. You spend your free time with each other and even spend most of your nights together now. Every time you are near the other one you are somehow touching each other.”

Mike looked at him questioning.

“You two are already in a relationship.”

“But we don’t have sex.” The other one stated and blushed. The blowjob the other day didn’t count.

“Well, that’s your bad.” Brad grinned and took another cookie out of the package before putting it into a drawer of the kitchen counter and made his way into his room.

As the MC turned around to wash up his cup he started to wonder. It really had become a habit for both singers to spend almost every night together and he just loved it. It felt good to be close to the other one like that. He trusted the singer and felt save with him. Sometimes it even felt like love.

His heart started beating faster. ’Easy Shinoda, you are just friends. Maybe friends with benefits but still, just friends.’

Thirty minutes later they both lied in the MC’s bed again, under the blanket, watching a series on Netflix on his laptop.

“Wow, those Germans really did a great job with this.” Chester stated. His head rested on Mikes left shoulder while he hold on to his right hand, stroking his forearm. Meanwhile the half-Japanese's arm was placed behind the singer, touching his lower back.

“Yeah, that’s really confusing shit.” The MC laughed out loud. They were into episode eleven and he still had a hard time keeping up with the story.

“Can you imagine your girlfriend being your mother?” The petite one giggled. “The sex must be weird.”

“I don’t think they’re having sex again after knowing that.” Mike replied laughing.

“But I’d enjoy another sex scene now.” Chester stated.

“Do you want me to change to something more suitable for adults?” The MC joked with a grin.

The other one stopped stroking his friends' arm, moving his head to face him. “Well, no but you could pause this episode and help me with something.” He replied with a smirk.

Mike rose an eyebrow. He didn’t understand.

“Gosh, why are you always so fucking adorable?” The singer giggled before lifting the blanket.

As the other one followed his friend’s gaze down his body, he noticed the bulge in Chester’s pants. He blushed before a grin appeared on his face. ’Friends with benefits.’ He thought.

“If you want to, you can keep watching and I’ll just take care of it myself while touching you. I mean, if you’re still a little weak.” The petite one replied with a smirk, moving his hand down his pants and touching himself. “You smell really good.” He said as he had started to plant kisses all over Mike's neck, his breathing became faster.

The other one watched his friend for a few seconds. This was turning him on. “Fuck Chaz.” He moaned under his breath, pausing the episode. There was no way he could focus on anything else now.

“Yes, say that again a few times.” Chester whispered. “That sounds so hot.”

Mike tilted his head back as the singer was still nibbling on his neck before he grabbed the hard-on of his friend and started to move his hand up and down. He really needed to touch him now.

The petite one let go of himself, moved a little and let his hand wander to the crotch of the MC.

“Oh God Chaz.” The half-Japanese moaned again after a few seconds.

“Shit Mike, I’m coming.” Chester said under his breath a minute later.

It didn’t take long until the singer climaxed. As he then could focus on the MC, he too came immediately.

Both lied there, breathing more heavily, not saying anything for another minute.

“Let’s clean up ourselves and meet here again in five minutes.” Chester said with a smile, planting a kiss on his friend’s cheek. “I want to know what happens next with those time travelers.”

Mike nodded smiling. He really did enjoy this kind of friendship a lot.

Chapter Text

Chapter 19 - Closeness

’Do we need coffee?’ The half-Japanese thought as he stood in front of a shelf in the supermarket. He did receive a call for an assignment earlier but as it was nothing too complicated which needed to be finished soon, he run some errands before had to sit down at his desk.

“Hi Mike.” A voice from behind made him jump. He quickly turned around, facing a smiling Sam.

“Hi, how are you?” He replied with a soft smile.

“I’m fine and you? Are you feeling better?” She asked.

“Um, yeah.” Mike answered, raising an eyebrow.

His counterpart giggled. “Chester told me that you were sick.” She explained. “So, have you planned anything for your birthday?”

The MC laughed. “Why is everyone asking me that? I’m just getting a year older.”

“We all just want to party I guess.” Sam replied with a grin.

“I see.” Mike laughed again. “I’ll probably rent the area at the bar with the pool table.”

The women in front of him smiled. “Cool.” There was silence for a few seconds. “Am I invited?” She asked with a sheepish smile.

The half-Japanese looked at her confused. “Of course.” He stated. “I’ll text you the exact time in the next couple days.”

“Great. Um, can I bring my brother with me? He just moved here and hasn’t many friends yet.” Sam asked.

“The more the better.” Mike replied with a smile.

“Thank you. I need to continue working now. See you.” She waved at him and was gone.

’Guess I really have to throw some kind of party now.’ The MC thought with a soft smile. He wasn’t the type for making an event out of his birthday. ’Maybe it’ll be fun. At the end we’re still just a few people who will drink and play some pool.’ With that thought he continued shopping.

“Hi guys.” Chester said to his roommates after entering the apartment and taking off his jacket and shoes. Mike was lying on the couch, reading a magazine about music and Brad sat in the armchair, watching a series on TV.

They both greeted the singer.

“How was work?” The MC asked, looking at his friend who now stood next to the couch. “Exhausting.” Chester replied and threw a letter on the coffee table before he carefully maneuvered himself next to Mike on the couch, making the other one put aside his magazine. After a few seconds the singer’s body was pressed against the MC’s right side.

“We have this event with some coupons and every customer asked me about details and items that are out of stock already and then they got mad all the time.” The petite one stated, his voice sounded a little dull as his head rested on Mike’s chest and he mostly spoke into his friend’s hoodie. “Sometimes I really hate people.”

Mike giggled and began fiddling with the singer’s hair. Right as he was about to say something a melody started playing. The guitarist reached into his right pocket, pulling out his phone.

The MC turned his head to look at Brad who was smiling and shoved his phone back after a few seconds. “Alright guys, I’m off to go to Elisa.” He handed the remote control over to the half-Japanese and got up.

Now Chester raised his head and both singers looked at the curly haired man with a grin. As Brad noticed that he rolled his eyes. “You are idiots.” He stated and made his way into the bathroom.

“I’m telling you; he’s head over heel in love with her.” Chester was the first one to speak.

“Yep.” Mike replied and both giggled.

The singer put his head down again then while the MC continued stroking him, a few minutes passed.

As the door clunk shut and Brad was gone, the half-Japanese remembered a question he had earlier. “Who is that letter for?” He asked.

The other one sighed. “For me.” He answered not moving. “It’s from my lawyer.”

Mike rose an eyebrow. ’Lawyer? He had never mentioned anything.’ He thought but hesitated. If his friend wanted to talk about it, he would, just like with his nightmares.

“Okay.” Was all the MC replied as he let his hand wander from the other one’s head over his back every now and then.

After a few minutes Chester suddenly rose his head again and looked at his friend. “Why are you never asking me about my past? I mean, after what I’ve told you about my mother. Also, I would have had hundreds of questions if you told me that you got a letter from your lawyer. Aren’t you curious at all?” He looked at him questioning.

“Um, well, I am a little to be honest.” Mike blushed. “But it’s none of my business. I respect that you don’t want to talk about it.” He replied, slowly stroking his friend's back.

The singer smiled weakly. “I haven’t told anyone a lot about my past yet.”

“It’s okay, you don’t have to tell me anything. I only don’t want you to be sad.” Mike smiled sheepishly. “Even though it’s okay to be sad sometimes too.” He shot an encouraging smile.

They looked at each other for a few seconds before the petite one lied his head down again. “Thank you.” He whispered.

“For what?” Mike asked, just as quiet.

“For being who you are.”

The MC blushed and after a while moved his head to face the TV, watching whatever was on it and continued stroking Chester’s back.

The next day they had all met at Rob’s house again. After two hours of writing songs and practicing they were eating pizza, lounging around.

“So, what about your birthday Noda?” Dave looked at the mentioned one while taking another bite.

“Yeah, are you going to throw a big party?” The Korean asked excited.

Mike smiled. “No, but I’ll rent the area back at the bar with the pool table.” He took a sip of his water. “You can all bring someone, if you like. I’ve already invited Sam and her brother.”

“Alcohol for free!” Rob stated with a grin.

The MC laughed out loud. “No, but I’ll pay for a round.” He replied.

“Party!” Joe screamed making everyone giggle.

Suddenly Chester yawned before he spoke: “If you really want to watch a movie tonight, we should start now. I’m getting tired.”

“Oh, right.” Brad interfered. “Give me a second and I’ll get it.” He said while finishing his slice of pepperoni pizza.

“Please tell me it’s not as gross as the last one.” The MC replied grimacing.

The drummer laughed. “No, I mean it’s still scary but not as brutal.”

“I’ve heard of it before love.” The singer squeezed Mikes left hand. “We’re safe. No humans eating other humans.”

“Good.” The half-Japanese smiled.

“I’ll bring you a blanket to hide under anyway.” Rob laughed out loud.

Chapter Text

Chapter 20 - Confidence

“Love?” The singer asked in a whisper to not disturb the others. They were in the middle of the movie.

“Hm?” Mike sounded, not taking his eyes of the TV. It really wasn’t as brutal as the last one and kind of interesting.

The petite one leaned closer to whisper into his ear. “If you don’t stop now, I need to drag you to the bathroom, and you need to finish what you’ve started.”

The other one turned to look at him confused. “What?” He was just a quiet.

Chester smirked, carefully pulling the hand of his friend which was stroking his hip and waist under the blanket, a little further down. The eyes of the half-Japanese widened as he touched the hard member of the singer. He hadn’t done that on purpose as he had started touching his friend earlier.

“Sorry.” He whispered. “But I promise to take care of it later.” He smirked, squeezing the singer’s crotch before he pulled his hand away. He really did enjoy this new sexual energy between them.

The other one grinned. “Can’t wait.” He replied and they focused back on the movie.

Three hours later they were already back at the apartment, lounging on the couch and watching TV.

“Alright guys, I’m going to get myself a snack. Do you want anything?” Brad asked, stretching, after putting the remote control onto the coffee table.

“No, I’m off to bed now anyway.” The singer replied. “Um, Mikey, are the lyrics we’ve been talking about the other day in your room somewhere? I’d like to have a look at them before going to sleep.” He asked, looking at his friend as he got up. The other one rose an eyebrow. What was he talking about? “Just tell me where and I’ll get them by myself.” He continued speaking and suddenly winked at Mike. A quick smile appeared on the other one’s face before it vanished again. He wasn’t sure what his friend was up to but the look in his eyes made him curious. “I’m not sure where they are. Come one, I’ll help you find them.” The MC replied, got up as well and they made their way into his room.

After the half-Japanese had closed the door, he turned around, facing the singer who looked at him with a smirk. Suddenly Chester pinned Mike to the door and started to plant kisses all over the other one's neck, making him giggle.

“What are you doing?” He asked.

“Earlier you’ve said that you are going to take care of my hard-on later.” He looked at him, his hand already in Mike’s pants. “Later is now.” He smirked and started to stroke his friend's member.

“But what if Brad hears us?” The MC replied slowly. It was hard focusing now.

“Don’t worry.” Chester said with a grin, his breath tingled the other one’s ear. “I’ll be quiet, and you can’t speak with my dick in your mouth anyway.” He winked.

Mike blushed. He still wasn’t used to talking like that.

“Gosh, even when you’re embarrassed you look sexy.” The singer whispered before he started to unbutton his jeans, still planting kisses all over the other one’s neck and nibbling on his ear.

“Fuck, Chaz.” The MC moaned, finally able to start touching Chester as well. How could his friend always turn him on like that within seconds?

“Shit, I love how you say that.” The petite one replied, his erection now pressing against Mike’s leg, making him smirk. He found it exciting how he too could arouse the singer.

“Alright, let’s see if you really can be that quiet.” The half-Japanese grinned, grabbing Chester’s hard-on. The singer jumped a little before he giggled. He liked it when Mike was a little bit more assertive. Without another word they continued making out as the MC lead his friend to the bed. He slowly placed the other one on the sheets before taking off his pants as well. ’Fuck he’s so hot.’ Mike thought, eyeing the singer up and down. Sometimes it was hard to believe that a man like him wanted to be close to someone like the half-Japanese.

“Come on love, I don’t want to do this on my own.” Chester’s seductive voice tore him out of his thoughts.

The MC smirked as he watched how his friend was touching himself. “Let me help you with that.” He replied and joined the other one.

After thirty minutes they both lied on their backs, the light was already turned off. Chesters head rested on the MC’s left shoulder who was slowly stroking the other one’s arm.

“You really did a great job with the stars.” The singer stated, staring at the ceiling. He wore a soft smile.

“Yeah, I love it too.” Mike replied.

A few seconds of silence passed.

“My father died a few weeks ago and my lawyer informed me about the heritage.” Chester’s voice sounded in the dark.

“Oh, um, I’m sorry to hear that.” The half-Japanese answered, slowly reaching for the other one’s hand, squeezing it.

“Don’t be.” The singer replied. “He wasn’t my real father and an asshole anyway. After my mother died, he started drinking and blaming me for everything.” His voice was quiet. “I mean, he was blaming me for everything before as well.”

Mike stayed silent. He wasn’t sure which words would be appropriate.

“Even though it was my fault that she wanted to end her life, there really was no need to tell me every fucking day.” His voice sounded sad with a hint of anger.

“What? No, don’t say that.” The MC whispered, turning to his side to look at his friend. This was heartbreaking. “It wasn’t your fault.”

Chester sighed. “Yes, it was.” He paused. “My mom was raped and became pregnant with me. As she noticed it was already too late for an abortion. My not biological father stayed with her because he loved her, but he hated me. I was the reason she started taking drugs. On one side she wanted to be there for her son and on the other side she couldn’t even look at me without reliving the moment she was raped.” He sighed.

Mike was speechless. He would have never thought that the singer had such a past. ’Fuck. I guess there’s nothing I can say to make this less fucked-up.’’ He thought and without another word threw his arms around Chester, pulling him closer.

The other one smiled weakly, turning on his side as well, cuddling up against the MC. “I’m sorry.” He whispered after a few seconds.

“For what?” The half-Japanese asked just as quiet and started to stroke the singer’s naked back.

“You’re probably intimidated, and I don’t want you to feel weird because of my fucked-up past.” The petite one replied.

Mike stopped his movement as he pulled back a little, looking at his counterpart. “Don’t you ever apologize for your past again.” He sounded serious. “I’m sorry that you have gone through something like that and it’s making me mad that this asshole made you feel like you were a failure.” The MC let his hand wander to the singer’s hair, stroking him. “And even though my opinion isn’t important, I don’t think that you’re a failure. I think that you are great.” He smiled softly.

Chester looked at him, a weak smile on his lips. Without another word, he snuggled up against his friend who then hugged him tight and planted a kiss on his head.

They stayed like that for the next minutes until they fell asleep eventually.

Chapter Text

Chapter 21 – The perfect gift

Mike stretched after stepping out of the bathroom. Luckily, he didn’t' need to get to work right away and could take things easy this morning.

Making his way to the kitchen, he could hear Chester and Brad talking quietly. As he stepped inside his roommates stopped their conversation immediately.

“Morning Noda.” Brad greeted him before taking a sip of his coffee.

“Hi love.” The petite one said before he stepped aside so his friend could get to the coffee maker.

“Morning.” Mike replied while pouring some of the liquid into a mug he had taken from the drawer above. After he turned around, he looked at his roommates, raising an eyebrow. Something was weird. Why did they just stop talking? “What are you two up to?” He asked, taking a sip.

“Nothing.” The guitarist answered with a smile. “I need to get ready for work now, see you later guys.” He emptied his mug, put it in the sink and made his way to the bathroom.

The MC turned to his right, looking at the singer, still raising an eyebrow.

“What?” Chester asked.

“Why did you stop talking as I’ve entered?”

The singer smiled. “We didn’t intentionally.” He answered, shrugging his shoulders. “We were just done with the topic.”

Mike took another sip of his coffee. He wasn’t sure if he believed him. A few days ago, there was a similar situation but back then he thought he had just imagined it.

“I need to get ready for work now too.” Chester stated emptying his mug. “I make some extra shifts so I can take two days off for your birthday.” He grinned.

The MC suddenly felt guilty. “I thought we are just going to have some beer and play pool. I don’t want to cause you any trouble.” He stated.

The singer smiled. “It’s okay love. I have just planned to get really drunk the day after tomorrow.” He laughed out loud. “So, I’m doing this more for myself than for you.” He grinned.

Mike giggled and Chester made his way to his room. ’Maybe I should get ahead of my schedule as well, so I can take it easy on the weekend after my birthday too.’ He thought, filled up his cup again and got to work.

beep beep beep

Rumbling, the half-Japanese turned to the right to switch off his alarm. As silence was surrounding him again, he lied on his back and closed his eyes. ’Just a few more minutes.’ He thought.

After a few seconds the door to his room opened and it didn’t take long until the mattress underneath him started to move.

“Love?” The voice of the singer was quiet.

Mike felt how the other one started to stroke his hair. “Love, I think you need to get up.”

As the MC slowly opened his eyes, he catches sight of a softly smiling Chester next to him. “Good morning love.”

“Morning.” Mike replied and yawned.

“Happy birthday.” The singer said, planting a kiss on his friend’s cheek before cuddling up against him.

The half-Japanese smiled. “Thank you.” He whispered, wrapping his arms around the other one. “Is my present that I can sleep in?” He mumbled into his hair.

Chester giggled. “You are the one who set the alarm. Do you still have work to do?” He asked.

Mike nodded. “I need to finish this one thing so I can rest tomorrow if I’m hangover too.” He grinned.

“We are such grown-ups.” The singer giggled again and slowly moved away from the MC. “Come on now love, I made you breakfast.” He smiled, planted another kiss on the other one’s cheek and got out of bed.

Ten minutes later, Mike sat down on one of the bar stools. The petite one had already placed a mug with coffee, a glass of orange juice, a bowl of fruits and a plate with some scrambled eggs and bacon in front of him.

“Wow, thank you.” The MC smiled at his friend. “I haven’t had bacon for a while.”

“I know.” Chester replied with a grin.

“Are you spoiling him just because he’s an old man now?” Brad’s voice suddenly sounded from behind.

“No, I’m spoiling him because he deserves it.” The singer answered, sticking his tongue out.

“Jealous?” Mike asked with a grin, after turning around, a piece of bacon still stuck out of his mouth.

“Well, yeah!” The guitarist laughed out loud and made his way to the MC, hugging him tight. “Happy birthday Noda.” He smiled.

“Thank you.” The other one replied and pushed his plate a little more to his friend after he took a seat next to him.

Brad grabbed a piece of bacon, eating it with pleasure. “Fuck, I really love bacon.” He stated, making the other two giggle.

“Did you bring it into the living room already?” Chester looked at the guitarist questioning before taking a sip of his own coffee.

The other one nodded.

“What are you talking about?” Mike asked while eating the scrambled eggs.

“Your present silly.” The singer replied smiling.

“What?” The MC looked at him confused before turning to Brad, still with the same expression. In the past they’ve never exchanged presents. At the most they bought each other a drink or two.

“Don’t look at me like that, it wasn’t my idea.” The guitarist answered with a grin.

“Come on love, eat up.” Chester stated excited.

A few minutes later they all made their way into the living room.

“What’s this?” The half-Japanese asked, pointing to the rather large package wrapped in blue wrapping paper which stood on the coffee table.

“Guess you need to open it, to find out.” Brad replied with a smile.

They sat down on the couch and Mike started to unwrap the mysterious box. Suddenly he noticed something familiar. “What the-” He stated and quickly ripped everything apart. After he was done, he just sat there, staring at the vintage record player in front of him. It was beautiful.

“What, how, why?” He stuttered, not able to think straight.

“Do you like it?” Chester voice quietly sounded next to him.

The MC turned to his left. “I love it! This is fucking awesome!” He replied, making the other two smile. He faced the record player again. “I’ve always wanted one, but they are really hard to get nowadays.” He stated, opening the lid and letting his fingers run over the material.

“Yeah, I know.” Brad interfered laughing. “We are glad you like it. It’s from all of us.” He smiled.

All of a sudden Mike hugged the guitarist tight. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” The other one replied, petting his friend’s back.

After a few seconds the MC let go of him, now turning to face Chester.

“Happy birthday love.” The singer looked at him with a smile.

“Thank you.” The half-Japanese said, throwing his arms around the other one, hugging him even tighter.

“Alright guys, I have to go to work now. See you at the bar later.” Brad squeezed Mike’s shoulder before he got up.

“Yeah, I need to start working now too.” The MC replied after letting go of the singer. He gazed at the record player again. He couldn’t believe that he finally owned one of these and could play all is old vinyl.

Chapter Text

Chapter 22 – The party

“To Mike!” Rob cheered, making everyone holding up their drink. Beside the six of them, Brad had brought Elisa with him and two of his colleagues. The other guys also invited some people from work who Mike had only met occasionally but he didn’t mind. He knew that his friends would never bring someone who would cause any trouble.

As all eyes were now on the MC, he blushed. Even though it was his birthday he didn’t like to be the center of attention.

Suddenly the singer’s warm breath hit his left ear. “I guess you need to say something now love.” He whispered.

The half-Japanese nodded and cleared his throat. “Um, thank you all for celebrating my birthday with me today. The first few beers are on me.” He grinned “So, um, enjoy.” His guests cheered before focusing back on drinking and talking.

As the music in the background became a little louder but was still at a volume you could have a normal conversation, Rob appeared next to the MC. “So, how did you like our gift?” He asked with a grin before taking a sip from his beer.

“I love it, thank you.” Mike looked at his friend with a broad smile. “I had totally forgotten to ask you about the record player of your parents.”

“No problem, I wasn’t allowed to talk about it with you anyway.” The drummer replied laughing.

The MC rose an eyebrow. “What’s that supposed to mean?” He asked.

“A while ago, I met Chaz at the supermarket as I was shopping, and he was working.” Rob started to explain. “We talked about the next jam session, and I’ve mentioned that my parents still had their record player and would be okay to lend it to you. But he insisted on not telling you cause he had already planned to get one for you and didn’t want you to maybe somehow think about buying one by yourself.” He laughed out loud before gulping down the rest of his beer. “I’ll get another one. Do you want one too?” The drummer asked, holding to bottle up. As the half-Japanese next to him just shook his head, he wasn’t really paying attention anymore; he made his way to the bar.

Meanwhile Mike watched the singer on the other side of the room, laughing and talking with Sam and some other guests. ’So the gift was his idea.’ He thought with a smile. ’I should have known. None of the other guys would think about a gift anyway.’ Suddenly Chester looked at him with a grin, waving for him to come over.

The MC smiled again. He held his bottle of beer up, pointed to it and then to his friend, looking at him questioning. The singer shook his head. Mike then pointed to the bottle and then at himself. Before he wanted to join them, he really needed something else to drink. Chester nodded smiling.

After a short visit at the toilet, he made his way to the bar. As he waited for the waiter a man suddenly appeared next to him.

“Um, hi. You’re Mike, right?” The man with the dark brown hair looked at him with a shy smile.

“Um, yeah, hi.” The MC replied confused. “Do I know you?” He asked.

His counterpart giggled. “No. Not yet.”

A few seconds passed.

“Sorry, I’m Mark by the way.” The man reached out to shake hands. “I’m Sam's brother.”

’Wow, he’s hot.’ Mike smiled. “Hi Mark, nice to meet you.”

They shook hands.

“Nice to meet you too. Um, thank you for inviting me or at least for not saying no as Sam asked you.” The brown-haired man replied laughing.

“You’re welcome.” The MC grinned. “So, um, you’re new here?” He asked, feeling that the two shots and the beer he and the others had before the guest were there, started to unfold.

“Yeah, my company just opened a new office here in L.A. and asked if would like to move.” Mark explained, a grin started to appear on his face. “And as I don’t have a partner right now, I didn’t mind.”

The bartender placed Mike’s beer on the counter in front of him. “Thank you.” He stated before looking back at the man next to him. “Do you want one too?” He asked.

The other one smiled, shaking his head and hold up a glass with a clear liquid.

“Is that water?” The MC asked with a grin.

Mark laughed. “Yeah, I need to get up at 7 a.m. tomorrow morning.”

“Really? I’m sorry to hear that.” Mike replied with a smile. He felt a little tipsy already. “Why do you have to get up that early?” He took a sip of his beer.

“I need to work.” The other one answered, smiling as well.

“On a Saturday? That sucks but I can relate.” The MC giggled. “What do you do for a living?”

“I’m one of those creepy and boring IT nerds that only come out at night.” Mark replied with a smirk.

“Well, I don’t think that you’re creepy at all.” The other one grinned.

“Glad to hear that.” Mike’s counterpart answered, still looking at him with a smirk.

“There you are.” Sam's voice suddenly sounded as she appeared next to Mark. “Come on, I want to introduce you to someone.” She stated grabbing the hand of her brother.

“Guess I have to go now.” The dark-haired on laughed. “See you later.” He winked.

“Can’t wait.” The MC replied with a smile, watching the two go away.

“Fuck, I’m drunk. I’m glad I took the next two days off.” Chester giggled. He and the half-Japanese were back at the apartment, already lying on Mike’s bed.

“Same.” The MC laughed.

“Why are you always sleeping with a shirt on?” The singer suddenly asked with a heavy tongue, turning on his side to look at his friend.

“Um, I don’t know. Cause it’s comfy?” The other one replied. He hadn’t expected such a question. Although the alcohol made it hard for him to not say the whole truth, he didn’t want to tell his friend that he also just didn’t like the way he looked.

“But you’re so hot. You shouldn’t keep that from others.” Chester said, letting his left hand wander under the fabric of the other one’s shirt.

Mike giggled. He really was drunk.

“I’m serious love.” The singer slid closer, so his head rested on the MC’s shoulder before his fingers run across his friend’s upper body. “I always enjoy seeing you without any clothes.” He smirked.

The half-Japanese rose an eyebrow, even though the man next to him couldn’t see it as the light was already switched off. “When did you see me completely naked?” He asked, feeling a little insecure all of a sudden. Even though they had some sexual interactions, he was always wearing a hoodie or shirt somehow.

“Unfortunately, never.” Chester giggled. “But I have to admit that I watch you as you change before getting in bed.”

Mike laughed. “Same with you.” He stated, making the singer laugh out loud as well.

A few seconds passed.

“Night love.” The petite one whispered, snuggling up against his friend, his hand still under the shirt on the bare chest.

“Night Chaz.” The MC replied, laying his arm around Chester, pressing him a little more against his body.

Chapter Text

Chapter 23 - Comfort

“Hi guys.” Mike greeted his friends. “Did you get all the alcohol out of your systems?” He grinned, knowing that they all were really drunk that evening and took a seat next to the drummer on the couch.

Two days had passed since the MC’s birthday, and they were all meeting up to make some music again.

“Yeah, but I’ve lost fifty bucks to Richard.” Dave answered. “He told me he had never played pool before, but he was a fucking pro.” He rolled his eyes, making the others laugh.

“I told you that he was lying.” Rob interfered.

“No, you said that you believed that you maybe have seen him play pool before.”

The drummer shrugged his shoulders. “It’s the same to me.”

They all laughed out loud as they heard footsteps coming down the stairs.

“Sorry for being late.” Chester’s voice suddenly sounded, making everyone turn their head. “I, um, Sam wanted to talk to me, and we kind of lost track of time.” He blushed, taking the last steps of the staircase.

“No problem, Brad’s still not here as well.” Mike replied, smiling softly.

After the singer had made his way over to the sofa where the MC and drummer were sitting on, the half-Japanese made some room for his friend. A few seconds later the blonde one sat down next to him. As the furniture wasn’t quite big enough for the three of them, the bodies of the singers were touching so they wouldn't crowd Rob.

“Say, does anyone of you know if the guy Sam was with is her boyfriend?” Joe asked suddenly, looking around the others.

Without a word Dave, who sat on one of the beanbags, grabbed the nearest pillow and threw it at the Korean.

“Ouch!” The other one cried out, making the others laugh.

“You are really just thinking about food, don’t you?” The bassist asked. “If you would have listened once you would know that this was Mark, her brother.”

Mike smiled hearing that name and remembered the moment he and Mark have met at his birthday party. He seemed like a really likeable guy. Unfortunately, the man somehow disappeared, and they didn’t have a chance to talk some more.

“Also, I doubt that she would be interested in you anyway.” Rob giggled.

“Yeah, I bet she still waits for Noda to turn straight.” Brad’s voice suddenly sounded, making the rest of the band jump before they all shared a laugh.

“So, Sam is single?” The Korean looked around again questioning. The others rolled their eyes. Joe sometimes had the attention span of a one-year-old.

Not responding to their friend’s question, they focused on the guitarist. “Say Delson, why are you late?” Dave asked grinning.

“I bet he was with Elisa.” Chester stated smiling.

“Why are you trying to hide the fact that she’s your girlfriend Brad?” Mike smirked. Although he was happy that it seemed like his friend had finally found a woman he not just wanted to sleep with, he loved teasing him.

“I’m not hiding anything.” The guitarist answered laughing and sat down on one of the wooden chairs. “Yes, I had lunch with Elisa, but it wasn’t just the two of us.” He continued speaking, checking his phone. “There were other colleagues too. I had a business meeting.”

“So, are you officially a couple now?” The singer asked, his head rested on the MC’s right shoulder.

“Are you even allowed to have a relationship with a co-worker? In my company that is strictly forbidden.” Rob stated.

Brad blushed a little before he shrugged his shoulders. “We already have a couple at work, so I don’t think anyone in my company would care.” He answered.

“So, she’s your girlfriend?” The half-Japanese asked with a soft smile while fiddling with the edge of Chester’s shirt.

The guitarist shrugged his shoulders again. “Can we focus on what we’re all here for now?” He asked as he really wanted to change the topic.

The others giggled slightly before Dave rose to speak. “Has any of you come up with some new lyrics?”

They all exchanged looks, shaking their heads. Only the blonde one had started to go through his backpack, which he had put on the ground, next to his feet.

“I don’t have a complete song but maybe some parts we could work on.” He stated handing the bassist his notepad.

The other one flipped through the pages for a few seconds. “This here sounds promising.” He said and started reading out loud.

“I used to be my own protection, but not now
Cause my path has lost direction, somehow
A black wind took you away from sight
And now the darkness over day, that night

And the clouds above move closer
Looking so dissatisfied
And the ground below grew colder
As they put you down inside
But the heartless wind kept blowing

So now you're gone, and I was wrong
I never knew what it was like to be alone

On a Valentine's Day”

“Wow, that’s depressing but still great.” Rob was the first one to speak. The others nodded in agreement.

Chester blushed and smiled weakly. “That’s an old and a not as aggressive song. At least it sounds like one in my head.” He replied.

Mike’s heart ached as he looked at his friend. ’Is this about his mother?’ He thought.

“Would it be okay for you if we would work on it?” Dave asked. He too could sense that the other one felt a little uneasy.

The singer nodded, smiling softly.

As the rest of the band started to grab their own notepads and pens, already talking about the sound every one of them had in mind for those lines, the MC reached for Chester’s hand. He really wanted to comfort him somehow. After he carefully grabbed it, not wanting to scare his friend, he squeezed it slightly. The other one turned his head to the left to face the half-Japanese. Both exchanged a soft smile before the singer tilted to the side to let his head rest on Mike’s shoulder again, still holding hands.

The next evening Mike sat at his desk working while singing along with the song that was playing on his record player. He really was happy that his friends had given him such an awesome present. Suddenly the door to his room opened and a grinning Brad appeared next to him.

“I’m glad you enjoy your present, but you need to turn down the volume a little bit.” He stated.

“Oh, um, sorry. Does it bother you?” The MC asked and got up to go to the record player.

The guitarist giggled. “No, but I’ve been calling your name for the last ten minutes and you just don’t seem to hear me.”

The half-Japanese laughed out loud after turning the music off. “You could have just come here from the beginning.”

“Yeah, but it has been really comfy on the couch.” Brad laughed as well.

“So why have you been calling me?” Mike looked at his friend questioning as he sat down at his desk again.

“I’m hungry and I need to pee.” The other one smiled. “Do you want some Chinese food too?”

The MC thought for a second. “Sure. Did you ask Chester already?”

The guitarist shook his head.

“Alright, you’ll go to the bathroom, and I’ll ask him. I can’t sit here any longer anyway.” Mike replied and got up to stretch.

Brad just nodded and disappeared.

After knocking on the door frame Mike stepped into the singer’s room and raised an eyebrow. It really was chaotic in there.

Linkin Park – Valentine's Day

Chapter Text

Chapter 24 – Let the cat out of the bag

After knocking on the door frame Mike stepped into the singer’s room and raised an eyebrow. It really was chaotic in there. Although the other one wasn’t a neatly person, it normally didn’t look that messy. Beside his clothes there were also a lot of paperwork, loose papers and books scattered around.

“Um, is everything alright?” The MC asked, looking at the singer who was rummaging through a drawer of his desk. The other one jumped a little as he hadn’t noticed someone entering his room.

“Yeah, I’m just looking for my birth certificate.” He answered before he went to another drawer.

The half-Japanese rose an eyebrow. “What do you need that for?” He took a few steps towards the bed.

“I have an appointment with my lawyer tomorrow.” Chester stated, still rummaging through some folders.

Now the MC remembered how the singer had told him about the death of his non-biological father and the letter he had received. “Do you want me to come with you?” Mike asked, sitting down on the bed, watching his friend.

Chester smiled softly as he turned around. “You’re really sweet but it’s alright. You don’t have to keep me company.”

“Okay, but if you change your mind, I’m here.” The MC replied, smiling encouragingly at him.

“I appreciate that love, thank you.” The petite one answered, shooting a smile towards his friend.

“Can I help you looking for it?” The MC looked at the other one questioning.

“Nah, I’ve already gone through everything and if it’s not in here anywhere, it can only be disappeared into the abyss.” The singer laughed and continued his search.

Sitting on the bed the half-Japanese let his gaze wander. Right next to him he saw some notepads, one already flipped open, scattered around the sheets. According to the titles of most of them they seem to be for notes and ideas for new songs. “Wow, you do a lot of song writing.” He stated, looking at his friend. “Do you mind?” Mike reached for one of the notepads.

After the other one had turned around again, he hesitated for a second. “Um, yeah, sometimes it helps me to get some things of my chest and no, go ahead but some of them are really old and not very good.” He shot a shy smile.

“I don’t judge.” The MC replied and winked at the other one before starting to flip through the pages. Chester grinned before focusing back on his search.

After a minute Mike stopped on one page where some doodles next to some lyrics caught his attention.

’This is my December
These are my snow covered dreams
This is me pretending
This is all I need

And I (just wish that I didn't feel like there was something I missed)
And I (take back all the things I said to make you feel like that)
And I (just wish that I didn't feel like there was something I missed)
And I (take back all the things that I said to you)

And I'd give it all away
Just to have somewhere to go to
Give it all away
To have someone to come home to

This is my December
This is my time of the year
This is my December
This is all so clear’ He read in his mind.

“Those are really good lyrics.” He stated, pointing to the notepad in his hands.

The singer stopped his movements, turned around and stepped closer before taking a seat next to the MC. The other one turned the notepad, so his friend had a better view.

A hint of sadness flashed over the singer's face before it vanished again, and a smile appeared on his lips. “Oh right, this one. Yeah, I liked it too.”

“What do you mean with: you liked it too? Don’t you anymore?” Mike asked, knowing that those lines probably had something to do with the other one’s past.

Chester smiled. “I still like those lyrics but as I have written them back then I just felt very lonely and kind of lost, you know.” He linked arms with the dark-haired man next to him. “And I don’t feel that way anymore. At least not very often.”

The MC’s heart skipped a beat. Was his friend referring to their relationship or whatever you would call it?

“Since I’ve moved in with you and Brad, life became better.” The singer continued with a smile before letting his head rest on the other one’s shoulder.

’At least I’m part of the reason.’ Mike thought, fighting the urge to let the feeling of disappointment wash over him. He slightly shook his head. He didn’t want to feel like that. He really enjoyed their kind of relationship, being friends with benefits. But every now and then the thought of being more than that had crossed his mind as well.

knock knock

“Guys? What takes you so long? I’m hungry.” Brad’s voice suddenly sounded as he now stood in the door frame, looking at his roommates.

Mike blushed. He had totally forgotten to ask the other one about the food. He cleared his throat. “Oh, um sorry. Do you want some Chinese food too?” He looked at the singer questioning.

“Yeah, turning my room into a mess made me hungry.” Chester laughed out loud.

One and a half hour later the three of them lounged on the couch. After eating they just watched some TV and relaxed.

“Alright, I’ll go take a shower and then I’m off to bed.” The singer said, sitting up straight as his legs had rested on the thighs of the MC.

“Do you have your appointment right in the morning?” Mike asked, watching his friend stretch after he got up.

Chester nodded. “Too early for my standards.” He laughed out loud and made his way to the bathroom. “Night guys.”

“Night.” The other two replied in union.

After the door clung shut the guitarist turned to face the half-Japanese.

“Aren’t you joining him?” He asked with a smirk.

Mike looked at him confused. “What? Um, no, why should I?” His heart started to beat a little faster.

“Come one, I know, that the two of you are fucking.” Brad looked at him with a grin. The eyes of the other one widened. “You two are not always as quiet as you think you are.” The guitarist laughed.

The MC blushed. “We’re not fucking.” He replied. It wasn’t a complete lie.

“It’s alright Noda. I don’t care what the two of you are doing as long as both of you enjoy it.” Brad smiled softly.

A few seconds past.

“You know that you still own both of us a favor.” Mike started to grin, feeling more confident again. He didn’t need to be ashamed of anything. “You should be nice, or we will come up with something very mean.”

“First of all, I am nice.” The guitarist replied, grinning as well. “Or else I would have entered your room when hearing strange noises which, according to you, is not the two of you getting all over each other. And second, are you the only one with the favor. Chaz has already used his.”

“What?” The MC looked at his friend questioning. “How?”

“For your birthday present.” Brad answered and focused back again on the TV.

“What do you mean? I thought the record player was a present from all of you?” Mike was curious.

The other one turned his head to face the half-Japanese once more. “It was but it was Chaz’s idea and as I’m the one with the driver's license and the car, he made me drive to dozens of stores and backyard sales until we found that special vintage record player.” Brad laughed. “For the time I invested I should have gotten him to clean my room for a week too.”

Linkin Park – My December

Chapter Text

Chapter 25 - Brave

The next day Mike stood in the kitchen, eyes half open, sipping on his coffee. ’Gosh Shinoda, you’ve really gotten too used to him next to you.’ He thought before he yawned. As the singer had spent the night in his own bed, the MC hadn’t a peaceful sleep at all. The fact that the other one had already used his favor with Brad did the rest to his rolling around the whole night and waking up every other hour, if he had fallen asleep at all. He wasn’t mad at Chester for using his favor for his present. No, he was flattered, that the other one had done that, knowing, that he too would have also loved to spend it for something the guitarist wouldn’t have enjoyed at all.

After a few more sips of coffee, he made his way to the fridge. There were some leftovers from the Chinese food the evening before and he really could use some energy right now.

As he took some of the containers out of the fridge, he heard how a key got turned in the lock of the front door. A few seconds later Chester stepped into the apartment.

Mike reached for the plate he had taken out of the cupboard before and watched the singer as he took off his jacket and shoes. Then their eyes met. The petite one smiled softly, walking into the kitchen. “Hi love.” He said and placed some papers on the counter.

“Hi, how was it?” Mike asked while putting the noodles on his plate.

“As expected, he wasted the small amount of money he had on booze instead of paying bills and so technically I need to pay his debts.” The singer answered with a weak smile. He now leaned against the right side of the MC who smiled sadly. Even though his friend acted like this whole heritage thing wasn’t a big deal, he could tell that it still bothered him more than he’d admit.

“Do you want some leftovers too?” Mike asked, holding up the small container full of noodles in front of the other one’s face.

The singer nodded. “But first some coffee.” He grinned and made his way over to the coffee maker.

“So, um, how much do you need to pay now?” The MC looked at his friend questioning after putting both plates into the microwave and turning it on.

“I hope nothing at all.” Chester replied, shrugging his shoulders. “As he isn’t my biological father and he had never adopted me, I don’t need to pay anything technically. Unfortunately, he did mention me in his will somehow and now my lawyer needs to make some calls and write some letters to clear this.” He took a sip of his coffee and sat down on one bar stool.

“Oh okay, well, I hope this will all be settled soon.” Mike smiled softly and after thirty seconds he took the food, sat down next to his friend and they started eating.

“What do you think about Sam’s brother?” The singer suddenly asked, after taking a sip of his coffee again.

“He seems nice.” The MC replied with a soft smile, taking a bite.

“And he’s hot.” His counterpart added with a straight face, making his friend laugh.

“Well, yeah.” The half-Japanese replied with a grin. “Can’t deny that.”

They continued eating in silence for a few more seconds.

“Would you like to go out again?” Chester suddenly asked, smiling softly at his friend.

“Sure, we can go out for a beer on the weekend.” Mike smiled.

“That’s not what I meant.” The singer giggled. “I mean a real date.”

The MC looked at him confused, stopping the movement of his hand with the fork midair. “A date? You and me?” His hear started beating faster.

Suddenly Chester looked somehow disappointed. “Um, yeah but it’s fine. I’m sorry, I just thought, um, I don’t know. I love spending time with you, we get along well, and I, um I thought you’d feel the same. But we can leave things just the way they are, that’s fine with me too.” He shot a weak smile.

The other one’s eyes widened. “What? No! I didn’t mean it like that.” Mike put his fork away and grabbed the singer’s hand, squeezing it. “I’m just surprised that someone like you would like to go on a date with me.” He smiled weakly.

Chester rose an eyebrow. “Why do you always think about yourself like that?” He stroked the hand of his friend. “Love, you are perfect.”

His counterpart blushed.

There was silence for a few seconds.

“So, um, what’d you say?”

Mike smiled. “I’d love to go on a date with you.”

“Yes!” The singer squeaked. “But I’m not good at planning stuff like that so be prepared for chaos or at least nothing too fancy.” He laughed.

“As you know, I don’t have much experience so I wouldn’t notice anyway.” The MC said with a grin.

“Right, well, that takes a lot of pressure off of me.” Chester giggled.

“But we don’t tell Brad anything, right?” Mike asked with a smirk. It would be a great opportunity to get payback on the guitarist.

“Of course not.” The other one replied, and they laughed out loud.

After a few seconds they focused back on their food, both smiling softly.

The next day they had met in Rob’s cellar again. They had already practiced for two and a half hours and were now lounging around, talking over this and that.

“I’d like to call it a day.” Rob said and stretched. “What about a new jam session this Friday?” He asked, looking around.

“I’m in.” Dave replied before he yawned.

“Me too.” Joe said and got up.

Mike and Chester exchange an inconspicuous look before the MC rose to speak, getting up too.

“I can’t, I have a date. Maybe on Saturday?” He asked.

Right as the bassist wanted to say something, the guitarist spoke: “You have what?” He looked at the half-Japanese in disbelief.

“A date.” Mike repeated, keeping a straight face.

Brad rose an eyebrow, now looking at the singer.

Chester acted confused. “Why are you looking at me like that?” He asked. It was hard not to grin. “I have time on Friday and Saturday, whatever suits the rest of you.” He stated, looking around, ignoring the other one’s stare.

The curly haired man focused back on the MC. “Who?” Was all he was able to say. The rest of the band didn’t seem to be as curious as him.

“None of your business Brad.” Mike laughed while taking his jacket from the back rest.

“I can’t on Saturday, but Sunday would be possible for me.” Dave interfered, reaching for his own jacket next to him as well.

“That’s fine with me too.” Rob said.

“Yep.” Joe agreed.

As the guitarist still was speechless, they all turned their attention to him. He hadn’t told them when he was available yet.

“Brad?” Chester asked.

“Um, yeah, Sunday is fine with me too.” He answered and got up as well. You could see that he still was curious.

Mike and the singer exchanged another inconspicuous look and a small smile while they all made their way upstairs. First, they had thought about making up a story, but knowing Brad it was worse for him not getting any more details and making things up in his head.

Chapter Text

“Alright, I’m off to bed.” Mike stated, closing his notebook. “I have a meeting with a client tomorrow.” He stretched. After the singer had left for his night shift the other two were lounging on the couch once more.

“And a date.” Brad stated with a grin before he yawned.

The MC laughed out loud. “Yes, that too.”

“So, do I know him?” The guitarist asked. He really was curious.

“Didn’t we agree on you not asking me about relationships anymore because I went on the date you’ve set up for me even as it was with Chester?” Mike looked at him with a grin. He knew it was difficult for the other one not to know who he would go out with.

“So, are you saying that I know him?”

The MC laughed out loud, making his way to the bathroom. “No, I’m saying that it’s none of your business Delson.” He said with a grin.

“Please Mike, tell me.” The guitarist begged. He was really eager to know.

“Nope.” The half-Japanese grinned at the other one before closing the door behind him. He loved teasing the guitarist.

In the bathroom the MC sighed while grabbing his toothbrush from above the sink. Already he was kind of nervous about going on a date with the singer the next day. Also, he didn’t like that he had to spend this night alone again. He just enjoyed falling asleep and waking up with Chester next to him.

“How do I look?” Mike asked his friend, standing in the door frame of his room. He wore a blue jeans, a dark blue button-down shirt and had spiked up his black hair a little.

Brad sat on the couch and turned around. “You look good.” He stated with a smile. “I mean, if I were into men, you’d be my type.” He grinned.

The other one stuck his tongue out at him. “Thank you.” He then smiled sheepishly and disappeared into the bathroom.

The guitarist shook his head smiling. He couldn’t remember the last time his friend was that nervous. Also, he was glad that Mike finally gave someone a chance, even though he and the singer seem to share some physical interactions lately. He too was curious to see who would pick up the half-Japanese today. Since the other one had mentioned that he would go on a date, he couldn’t help but to ponder who it might be.

ding dong

Suddenly the doorbell rang, making Brad jump.

“That’s him.” The MC yelled. “Can you open the door please? I’ll be right there.”

“Sure.” The guitarist replied with a grin and got up. His thoughts were running wild. Maybe it was Mark, Sam’s brother. He had noticed that both men had talked with each other at the birthday party and seemed to get along well.

As he opened the door Chester stood in front of him, a small bouget of reddish flowers in his hand and a broad grin on his face. “Hi Brad.”

“Hi Chaz, why do-” Brad stopped his sentence and suddenly his eyes widened. “Wait. Really? Yes! Finally!” He squeaked, making his counterpart giggle.

“Can I come in?” The singer asked and without another word the curly haired man stepped aside nodding. As he wanted to express his surprise and happiness about Chester being Mike’s date, the MC joined them in the hallway.

“Hi.” He greeted the petite one.

“Hi love, you look great.” The other one replied with a smile. “I’ve brought you some flowers. I’ve heard that that’s a thing someone would do on a date.” He grinned, holding the bouget in front of him.

The half-Japanese blushed. “Thank you, you too.” He answered. The tight black pants and the red and black checked flannel really suited the singer. “And the flowers are beautiful.” He smiled, handing them to Brad. “Could you put them in water please?”

“Sure.” The other one replied.

“Ready?” Chester asked.

Mike nodded and grabbed his jacket from the wardrobe.

“Bye Brad.” They both said in union before leaving.

The guitarist smiled while closing the door behind them.

“I really thought Brad would be more surprised.” Chester chuckled after they’d stepped out of the building and started walking on the sidewalk. “Even though his face as he realized why I was standing in front of the door was still priceless.”

“Yeah, I thought he would scream some more.” Mike replied laughing. “Especially as he’s trying to talk me into us being a couple for a while now.”

“Really?” The singer looked at his friend, raising an eyebrow.

“Um, yeah. He once told me that we don’t look for a partner because we both are in a relationship with each other already.” The MC blushed.

The other one thought for a second. “Well, I mean, um, in retrospective he’s kind of right.” He laughed. “Even though I thought of it more as friends with benefits.” Chester grinned, making the other one giggle.

“Yeah, me too.” The half-Japanese replied with a smile.

They walked in silence for a while.

“So, um, what have you planned?” Mike asked, feeling a little nervous. Even though he loved spending time with Chester, having a date with him was scary and yet exciting at the same time.

“Well, when I’m on a date I normally try to impress the other one.” The singer answered with a smirk.

The MC smiled softly. “You don’t have to impress me.”

“I don’t?” Chester looked at him questioning. “I wanted to start with giving you a blow job on the restaurants toilette, but alright, if you say that I don’t need to impress you, I’ll just take that of the list.” He smirked.

Mike laughed out loud. “Well, I mean, you don’t have to take it from the list but maybe we can put it more at the end of it.” He replied with a grin, making the other one giggle as he linked his arm with the half-Japanese.

“Good. I wouldn’t have wanted to take it off anyway.” Chester placed a kiss on the MC’s cheek. “Gosh, you always smell so good love.” He stated and blushed.

Mike smiled softly at his friend and his heartbeat slowed down as he realized, that the other one was probably just as nervous as him.

It didn’t take long until both were acting just like they always did with each other and after a twenty-minute walk, talking about this and that, they stopped in front of a restaurant.

“I thought you weren’t good a planning stuff, yet a date?” Mike suddenly asked with a grin.

“What do you mean?” Chester rose an eyebrow.

“That’s the place Brad and I met you for the first time as you’ve applied to move in with us. Don’t you remember?”

Suddenly the singer’s eyes widened. “Fuck, you’re right! I knew that this restaurant somehow reminded me of something, but I couldn’t put my finger on it.” He laughed out loud. “Well, I guess that’s a sign, right?” Chester now smiled shyly.

The MC nodded. “For sure.” They shared another smile and went inside.

Chapter Text

Chapter 27 - This is a date.

“I mean, I don’t have much experience when it comes to dating, but I’d say that this was a good choice.” Mike grinned, taking a big bite from his burger. Even though this place made rather average food, he just loved the fries and the atmosphere in general.

The singer giggled. “Yeah, I figured, as we both are not the fancy type of person, this here would be the perfect place.” He smiled, taking a French Fry. “Also, I really love these.” He held the fried potato up before putting it into his mouth, making the MC giggle.

“Yeah, I love those fries too.” Mike laughed. “And you’re right. I rather eat some fast food than have dinner at a fancy restaurant where I don’t know how to behave.” He grinned.

“True.” The singer replied, mouth full of food.

They shared another laugh before focusing back on their meals.

“I have to make a confession to you, love.” Chester said with a shy smile after a few minutes. He seemed nervous suddenly.

Mike looked at him, raising an eyebrow.

His counterpart hesitated before putting his burger aside. “Two days after your birthday party Sam wanted to talk to me and um, asked me if I knew if you had a boyfriend.”

“Um, okay.” The MC replied. He didn’t know where this was leading to.

“She told me that Mark asked her for your number cause he was interested in getting to know you better.”

The half-Japanese started to grin. “Really?” He felt flattered.

His counterpart smiled weakly. “Yeah, and um, I’ve told her that you are maybe seeing someone at the moment and probably are not interested in him.” He blushed. “I’m sorry, but as I saw how he was flirting with you back at the bar I just felt jealous and so I lied.”

A few seconds passed before Mike rose to speak. “You were jealous?”

Chester blushed again. “Yeah, and I thought if I don’t take the chance and ask you for a date, he will. And I realized that I don’t want that. I’m sorry.”

“You are adorable.” The MC replied, reaching out for the hand of his friend.

The other one looked at him surprised. “You are not mad?” He asked, responding to the touch of the half-Japanese by stroking his hand.

Mike giggled. “Well, I’m flattered that someone like Mark wanted to go out with me.” He squeezed the singer’s hand. “And I’m even more flattered that you were jealous.” He answered with a grin before he blushed. “But I’m not mad. Not at all.” He had never experienced that a man lied because he wanted to spend time with him or even someone else being jealous. He really enjoyed that feeling.

“You really need to accept the fact that you are fucking awesome.” Chester laughed out loud. He was glad that the other one didn’t mind.

Mike blushed again. “I’ll work on it.” He smiled sheepishly.

“I’ll help you by telling you every single day.” The singer grinned, squeezing his friends’ hand.

After another hour they’d finished eating and made a small detour to enjoy the night on their way home. A little over thirty minutes later they had reached their apartment.

“What are you doing love?” The singer asked, watching his friend fiddling around in his pockets after he had let go of the hand of the other one.

“Getting my key to open our door.” He said, matter of fact.

“But we’re on a date.” Chester stated.

Mike stopped his movements and looked at him. “So?”

The petite one giggled. “Oh love, at the end of a date you normally decide if there’s a goodbye kiss cause you want to see the other one again, sex cause, well, you can at least have some fun or nothing because the date was awful.”

The MC thought for a second.

“I guess, if you need to think about it, the date wasn’t that good.” Chester smiled sheepishly. He sounded disappointed.

“I’m just wondering if it’d be okay to choose more than one thing.” Mike answered with a smirk.

The other one raised an eyebrow and right before he wanted to say something the half-Japanese grabbed him by his neck, pulling him close into a passionate kiss. His heart was beating faster. It was still a little weird being that confident, he just wasn’t every experienced with dates and men, but somehow spending time with Chester had made him braver over time. Also, he just couldn’t resist to touch the other one whenever possible. He slowly took his right hand from the singer’s face, letting it wander down his neck, over his spine and as he reached the waistband, he got under his shirt. As he felt the skin under his fingertips, he pressed the body of the other one a little more against himself, taking a few steps and moving him along. After two steps they’d reached a wall, leaning against it. Now Chester’s hands found their way under the MC’s t-shirt as well. Suddenly Mike felt how the erection of the other one was pressing against his own. He smirked. He still wasn’t used to someone else being that turned on by him as well. As the singer had to smirk too, they finally stopped kissing, looking each other in the eyes.

“Fuck, you are a really good kisser. That was hot.” Chester said grinning and a little out of breath.

The half-Japanese blushed. Even though he had become more confident, he still wasn’t good at taking compliments. The other one planted a light kiss on his lips before smiling at him. “I love it when you blush like that.”

Mike’s heart was still racing. The word love was something that had been on his mind for quite a while now. ’Don’t ruin this Shinoda. It’s too early for that.’ He thought. Also, maybe it just felt like love because he hadn’t been that close to someone for a long time.

“Should we go inside?” The singer’s voice tore him out of his thoughts. The MC shot a smile and nodded, reaching for his left pocket to grab his key. Chester took his other hand, so they were holding hands again.

As they entered the apartment everything was dark and silent.

“So, should we go to your room or mine?” The singer whispered into Mike’s ear.

“Um, I, um I don’t know.” He replied nervously. Although he was aroused and they had already been intimate with each other somehow, he was scared. What if he wasn’t good in bed? He hasn’t had sex for a very long time.

Chester could sense that his friend was a little anxious now. “It’s alright love, no pressure. We don’t have to do anything.” He smiled at him encouragingly, giving him another soft kiss. “This date can end however you want it to end.”

“Sorry, I just don’t know if I’m ready for the next step yet. I haven't had sex for a long time, you know.” Mike explained and blushed. He knew he needed to be honest even if it was embarrassing.

“It’s okay, you don’t need to explain yourself. I don’t care if we go as far as we did before or just keep making out.” The singer squeezed his hand. “As long as you don’t mind if I touch myself while doing it.” He smirked, making the other one giggle. Now the half-Japanese felt more confident again. The thought of his friend jerking off was turning him on. “Only if you don’t mind if I touch you too.” He replied with a grin.

“Fuck love, the thought alone is making me almost come. Alright, I don’t care how but we need to take care of my dick now. Come on.” Chester said, lust in his eyes, dragging his friend along with him as he made his way to the MC’s room.

Chapter Text

The next morning Mike stood in the kitchen, making coffee. He smiled, looking at the flowers the singer had brought, next to him, remembering what had happened. Yesterday was just perfect. He maybe didn’t have that much experience when it came to dating but he was sure that last night would be pretty high in ranking, if there was any. He had spent the evening with one of his best friends, having fun and at the same time there was this energy between them. It wasn’t like they have been all over each other the whole time but every now and then they have touched each other or kissed. Also, they really haven’t had sex, but they had done more than just jerking each other off and he’d loved it. He was glad, that he had given in to the voice inside his head which told him to just go for it and enjoying every aspect of being friends with benefits. Even though he and the singer had already spent a lot of time together, he really had been a little nervous the whole evening. But everything about yesterday was just great. It has been a long time since he had felt that safe and close to another human being like that.

Suddenly he heard a door open, followed by the sound of footsteps. After a few seconds someone stood behind him, getting under his t-shirt and wrapping his arms around his upper body.

“Morning love.” Chester whispered into his neck, kissing it.

“Morning.” Mike replied, closing his eyes, enjoying the touch. “Do you want something to eat for breakfast?” He asked.

“Nope, coffee’s just fine.” The singer answered, letting his hands wander down into the brief boxer of the half-Japanese. “But I wouldn’t mind some dessert.” He grinned, planting kisses all over his friend's neck.

The other one giggled.

Suddenly a voice from behind made them jump. “Gosh guys, give me a warning next time I’ll enter a room and you want to get all over each other.” Brad said with a grin.

“Why? I don’t mind if you’re watching us.” Chester replied with a smirk, after letting go of Mike and turning around to face the other one.

“But I do.” The curly haired man answered laughing. “So, your date went good I guess?” He smiled softly.

“Nah, it was nothing more than sexual attraction.” Mike interfered after turning on the coffee maker, shrugging his shoulders with a straight face.

The guitarist laughed out loud.

“Hey!” The singer cried out.

The half-Japanese giggled and stepped behind his friend, wrapping his arms around him this time. “I was just kidding.” He kissed Chester’s neck before resting his head on his shoulder, looking at Brad. “Coffee?”

“Two please.” The other one replied with a shy smile.

Both singers raised an eyebrow. Before one of them could say anything, the door to the room of the guitarist opened.

“Morning guys.” Elisa’s voice sounded. She was only dressed in one of Brad’s flannel shirts as she made her way over to them.

“Morning.” Both singers replied before they started to grin. Of course, it was rather obvious for everyone that she and the guitarist were together but the two of them never talked about it. Also, if she would spend the night with Brad, she normally was gone by sunrise. So, meeting her in the morning and not just saying goodbye to her as she was on her way out was something special.

“Morning babe.” Brad greeted her as well while she sat down next to him and gave her a kiss. After two seconds they shared a smile before looking at the others.

Suddenly they heard how the guitarist’s phone was going off.

“I’ll be right back.” Brad said and quickly made his way to his room.

Mike focused back on Elisa. “So, are the two of you officially a couple now?” He asked, still holding on to the singer.

“Do we need a label?” She replied with a grin.

Both singers started laughing. Brad and her really were a fit.

“Hey guys. Rob just texted me. He isn’t feeling quite well today and asked if it would be okay if we met for practice on Monday. The others would be okay with it.” The guitarist stated after stepping into the kitchen again, still holding the phone in his hand.

“Um, yeah, sure.” Mike said, shrugging his shoulders.

“I have to work until 3 p.m. but after that I’m in.” Chester was the next one to speak.

The guitarist nodded while typing on his phone. “Yeah, I have to work too. So, I’d say around 3:30 p.m., okay?” He looked at the two singers again.

Both nodded.

“Alright, I’ll go and take a shower before coffee is ready.” Brad stated, after reaching them again. “Would you like to join me?” He looked at Elisa with a grin.

The women to his left giggled. “You wouldn’t even have to ask.” She replied and got up.

After the two were gone, the half-Japanese rose to speak: “So, as we don’t have to go anywhere today or tomorrow, would you like to join me in bed and have a lazy weekend?” He asked with a smile, planting a kiss on the other one’s left cheek, still standing behind him, his arms around his upper body. Even though he really loved making music, he wouldn’t mind spending the day cuddled up next to the singer, watching some series on Netflix.

The other one turned around, smiling as well. “I’d love to.” He gave his counterpart a soft kiss. “But first I need to take care of something else.”

There was a pause. The MC could tell that the singer wasn’t sure if he should keep talking.

“Anything I can help you with?” Mike asked, still holding on to the other one. In the background you could hear how the coffee maker made its typical noise as it was finished making coffee.

“I don’t think so.” Chester replied. “I want to look for a therapist.”

“Really?” The half-Japanese looked at him questioning.

“Yeah, I have thought about what you’ve said this one time. About how you have sought help as you were at your lowest point.” The singer answered.

’Wait. Is he that sad and depressed all the time again?’ Mike thought. He hadn’t noticed that his friend had felt like this in the last few days or weeks.

“It’s alright, it’s not like I’m at my lowest point right now.” Chester continued speaking with a soft smile. He could see that his counterpart was worried. “I just feel like that maybe, I am finally able to, well, um, I don’t know, work with those bad thoughts and nightmares, you know.” He paused. “I thought about telling you yesterday at dinner, but I didn’t want to ruin the atmosphere.” He smiled sheepishly.

“I’m very proud of you for taking this step.” The MC smiled. “But you need to promise me one thing.” He softly held on to the other one’s chin, looking him deep in the eyes. “Never and I really mean never, be scared to talk to me about something that’s on your mind or assume that it could ruin the atmosphere, okay? Even though I might not be able to help you, but I really believe that talking about stuff makes things easier.”

A grin started to appear on Chesters face.

“What?” The half-Japanese asked.

“Nothing. You are just awesome.” The petite one replied and leaned forward so their lips met.

After an intimate kiss the singer rose to speak once more: “And now let’s get a coffee and everything else done so we can get in bed again.” He grinned and let his right hand wander under the MCs washed-out t-shirt where he started to stroke his back.

They shared a smile before Mike gave Chester another kiss. “Let’s hurry then.” He answered with a smile.

Chapter Text

beep beep beep

Mike carefully reached for the alarm to turn it off. Chester was snuggled up on his left side and he didn’t want to bother him.

It was the next Monday and even though he needed to get some work done and buy groceries, there was no real schedule for today, except for meeting with the others at Rob’s place in the afternoon. However, the petite one needed to get up for work and the MC didn’t mind being up a little early.

Slowly he let his hand wander through the blonde tousled hair of the man next to him. “Good morning.” He whispered.

Chester started to move and opened his eyes. “Morning love.” He replied just as quiet, looking at him.

“How did you sleep?” Mike asked, smiling softly. He really loved waking up with the singer next to him or him in his arms.

“Good, but I would rather not have to work today.” Chester answered.

The half-Japanese grinned, pressing the body of his friend some more against himself.

“Gosh, how can you smell that good after just waking up?” The singer mumbled into the other one’s neck. As his breath hit the MC’s skin, he felt shivers running down his spine. “I could keep sniffing at you all day long.”

Mike giggled. “I just took a shower before getting in bed last night.” He answered, before planting a kiss on the other one’s head while his hand automatically stroked his naked back.

“Nah, you always smell good. It doesn’t matter if you showered or not.” Chester replied, planting kisses on the half-Japanese's neck.

“How much time do you have until you need to be at work?” Mike asked with a smirk. He had already started to let his hand wander down until he reached the other one’s bottom.

The singer looked at him with a grin. “Sorry love but there’s no time for a quickie.” He answered, planting a kiss on the MC’s lips. “I need to be at work a little earlier today. There’s this new event and I have to prepare some things and mostly myself.” He giggled, kissing the half-Japanese again before he got out of bed. “I don’t want to be yelled at by customers this time.”

“That’s a bummer.” Mike replied, still wearing a smirk. He just loved that he had someone who was just into sexual interactions with him then the other way around.

“Fuck love, you’re really making this hard for me.” Chester laughed out loud while putting on his shirt, eyeing him up. The half-Japanese grinned and in the blink of an eye the other one jumped him.

“What are you doing? I thought you don’t have time?” The MC giggled between kisses.

“Oh, come on, you know very well that I can’t resist this sexy body of yours.” The singer replied with a grin and within seconds they were making out.

A few hours later, Mike went to the supermarket. With the shopping list in his hand, he stood in front of the shelf with the noodles. He and his roommates always kept a piece of paper near the fridge where everyone could write down, what was needed in their opinion. As the singer was the one who cooked the most, even though it was mostly breakfast, a lot of items were requested by him. Suddenly he noticed a movement out of the corner of his right eye. Turning around he smiled.

“Hi love, long time no see.” Chester greeted him with a grin, giving him a quick kiss after he’d reached him. He sneaked a peak at the items the MC had already put in the basket. “Seems like you’ve already found the stuff I have put on the shopping list.”

“Yeah, I’m not sure what to make of this but I trust you.” Mike laughed out loud.

“I like hearing that.” The singer grinned again. Suddenly his eyes widened. “Wait, I just thought about the best omelet someone could ever make.” He sounded excited. “Shit, but I do need one special spice for it. I’ll go and check if we have it. I’ll be right back.” He shot a smile and quickly walked away.

The MC watched how the singer disappeared around the corner into another isle.

“Mike?” A voice sounded, making him jump a little. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you.”

The half-Japanese was surprised to see Sam’s brother as he turned around. “Oh, hi Mark.” He replied and they shared a smile.

“So, um, I’m sorry that I’ve left your party that early the other day.” The brown-haired man started the conversation. “I couldn’t even say goodbye to you. Sam somehow didn’t feel that well all of a sudden.” He grinned at the end, making the MC giggle. He did remember that he had noticed Sam being really drunk.

“Yeah, we all had a lot to drink that evening.” Mike laughed out loud. “I hope she’s better now?”

Mark nodded. “Yeah, after some vomiting and a lot of sleep, she was fine the next day.” He laughed as well.

There was silence for a second.

“So, um, hasn’t Sam talked to you yet?” The brown-haired one asked. He seemed a little nervous suddenly.

The MC rose an eyebrow, not knowing what his counterpart meant by this.

"Well, um, I asked her to ask you if-.” Mark continued talking but was interrupted by the singer’s voice.

“Found it! You and Brad are going to love it.” He sounded as he appeared in the isle again.

Both men turned to look at him.

“Oh, hi Mark.” Chester said, now standing next to the half-Japanese.

“Hi.” The other one greeted him with a smile. “So, you have a personal chef?” He looked at the MC with a grin, making him laugh.

“Well, I do take care of a lot of his needs.” The singer interfered with a smirk.

Suddenly it hit Mike. Earlier, Mark was referring to Sam asking Chester, if he would be interested in getting to know the other one better. ‘Hasn’t Sam told him yet?’ He thought, still feeling flattered, that Mark found him attractive. However, even though he too found his counterpart good looking, there wasn’t anything else he felt for him.

“Ah, I see.” The man with the dark brown hair answered. His smile faded a little.

“Mark?” Sam’s voice suddenly sounded. “What are you doing here? I thought we wanted to meet at the café?” She asked.

“I left work early and wanted to pick you up.” Her brother replied as she made her way over. Now she noticed the other two there as well. “Oh, hey Mike, nice to see you.” She smiled. “And Chaz I was looking for you. There’s a woman at the check-out asking for a coupon for soups.” She had now reached the three men, talking directly to the singer. “Do you have any idea what code Jeremy needs to use?”

Chester rolled his eyes. “God, those coupons are driving me insane.” He replied, making the others giggle. “I’ll be right there.” He smiled.

“Thank you.” The woman smiled as well. “Come on Mark, my shift is almost over. You can keep me company in the storage.” She held on to her brother’s right arm. “Bye guys.” Sam said, pulling Mark with her as she started to walk away.

“Bye.” The brown-haired man smiled at them and waved, before following his sister. As soon as they were a few feet apart they started whispering.

The two singer watched them walk away before Mike rose to speak: “Is this by any chance the secret ingredient my mom has told you about?” He asked with a grin, looking at the spice in the petite one's hand.

For a second it seemed like the cheeks of the singer turned a little red but then he started to smile broadly. “Nope, I already have that.”

“And I guess you are still not telling me what it is?” The MC asked with a soft smile. Even though, he still was curious, he didn’t mind if the other one wanted to keep it a secret. Also, he really liked this little game they were playing because of it.

“I’ve told you that you need to be nice to me for telling you.” Chester grinned, giving his friend a quick kiss before putting the spice in the basket. “I’ll need to continue working now. See you later at Rob’s place.” He smiled and walked away.

“I’m always nice.” Mike called out after him with a grin. His roommate turned around one last time and winked before disappearing around the corner.

Chapter Text

“Hi guys.” Chester's voice sounded as he took the last stairs, waving at his friends who greeted him as well. “And hi love again.” He said as he had reached the sofa, wrapping his arm around the MC from behind, planting a kiss on his cheek before he made his way around the furniture, taking a seat next to him.

“How was work? Could you help the lady with the soup?” Mike asked with a soft smile, throwing his right arm around the other one, pulling him closer.

“Stressful and yes but I guess, next time we have such an event, I’ll just call in sick.” The singer replied with a chuckle, letting his head rest on his friend's chest, enjoying how he slowly started to stroke his side.

“Well, do you wanna watch the new episode of your current favorite series later?” The MC asked smiling, running his hand over the other one’s back.

“There's a new one already?” Chester looked up, facing his friend who nodded. “Awesome, my day just got better. I’m curious to see what the world has in store for those time travelers this time.” He grinned, giving Mike a kiss. “Do we have popcorn at home, or do we need to buy some?” The singer asked.

The other one thought for a second. “I’m not sure but we can just get some later.” He replied, letting his hand wander to the petite one’s hair now, slowly stroking it.

“Alright, maybe we should also buy some new sheets. Just in case, you know.” Chester answered with a smirk, making the MC giggle. He knew that his friend was referring to this one time they had jerked each other off while watching the series.

“Sure.” Mike stated with a grin.

After they exchanged another smile, they turned their attention to the rest of the band.

Being in their own little world they haven’t noticed the confused faces of the other ones. Only Brad was smiling softly at them.

“Is there anything you’d like to tell us?” Rob asked.

Mike and Chester both looked at the drummer confused.

The others started giggling.

“Are you a couple?” Joe asked, making the rest of the band roll their eyes. He was, beside the two singers, the only one that hadn’t noticed how close they have been over the last month already.

“What question is that? They have been a couple for months; they just didn’t know.” Brad replied, laughing out loud. The others joined him.

“True.” Dave said with a grin.

“Yep, nothing seemed to have changed, except that you are now actually making out in front of us.” Rob interfered. The rest of the band laughed once more, making the half-Japanese blush. He had never thought that all of them were thinking like the guitarist did.

“So, are you?” The Korean asked again.

Mike's heart had already started to beat faster. Now that he thought about it, they have become more couple like after their date. But they haven’t even once talked about the status of their relationship. They just acted like they did all the time. The only exception was, that they now kissed more, and that Chester went to bed with him right from the start and did not sneak into his room in the middle of the night because of a nightmare anymore. And he really did enjoy the time he and the singer spent together, especially the physical contact was something he had wished and longed for a while. But were they a couple now? Chester had said at one point, that he didn’t want a relationship and that he thought about them as just being friends with benefits as well. What, if the petite one wouldn’t want anything serious, and the thought alone now would scare him away?

Suddenly Mike felt someone wrapping his arms around him from the side. It was the singer. He planted a kiss on the MC’s right cheek before he looked at the others with a grin. “He’s mine.”

“He has been for a long time already.” Dave winked before he smiled.

As the others got up and started to get ready to practice, Chester pressed his body a little more against the half-Japanese.

“Are you okay with that?” He whispered into Mike’s ear before looking at him with a soft smile.

“I’m not sure.” The MC replied, keeping a straight face.

The singer rose an eyebrow.

“I mean, maybe I need to be impressed some more to be completely sure, you know.” The half-Japanese started to grin.

Chester’s face lit up again before a smirk appeared on his lips. “Be careful with what you wish for love.” He whispered, planting a few kisses on his friend’s neck, making him getting goosebumps. “Or I’ll impress you that much that you can’t walk for a day or two.” He winked at the MC.

The other one blushed before he started to giggle. “I’d give it a try.” He answered with a grin, grabbing the singer's shirt and pulling him closer to kiss him, softly biting his lower lip as they stopped again. He loved that he could now just do that to him.

“Fuck, I really want you now.” Chester’s voice was quite as he looked at the MC, licking his lips.

“I know.” Mike replied with a grin, giving the petite one another quick kiss and stood up. “But it’s time for practice.”

“Hey! You can’t just make me horny and then leave. That’s mean.” The singer stated, playfully shocked.

The half-Japanese just shrugged his shoulders.

“You know that this means payback, right?” Chester grinned, getting up as well.

Mike just winked at the singer before making his way over to the others.

After practicing for two hours, they had eaten food and were now just sitting around, having small talk.

“Say Chaz, have you thought about your birthday party yet?” Dave asked before taking a sip of his soda.

The singer rose an eyebrow. “Isn’t it too early to think about that? I’m mean, there’s almost four weeks left until my birthday.” He smiled, absent-mindedly playing with the MC’s fingers of his left hand while leaning against his upper body. The other one had wrapped his arms around him after they both had got comfy on the couch.

“Well, if you want to have a party like Noda, you probably need to rent the place before someone else does.” The bassist replied, shrugging his shoulders.

“Bullshit.” Mike interfered laughing. “You just want to play pool with Richard again and get your money back.”

As the rest of them shared a laugh, Dave stuck his tongue out at them.

“Even though his motive is questionable.” Brad rose to speak with a grin. “Have you thought about how to celebrate yet?” He looked at the other one questioning.

The singer thought for a second. “Nope, but I liked Mikey’s party back then, so, I guess, I’ll just do the same.” He replied.

“Can you invite Sam?” Joe suddenly asked while enjoying his last piece of pizza.

“Gosh, you are really into her, aren’t you?” Rob laughed out loud.

All eyes were on the DJ now.

“I just think she’s hot.” He replied, shrugging his shoulders, after licking his fingers as he had finished his pizza.

“I don’t think that this feeling is mutual.” Dave interfered making the rest laugh.

“Well, it’ll probably be nothing serious, but I bet she’d be up to some fun after I took away her love interest.” Chester said with a grin, leading Mike’s hand to his lips, kissing it.

The rest of the band laughed once more.

“Even though nature did and not you, I get your point.” The half-Japanese giggled, planting a kiss on the other one’s head.

“So, are you inviting her?” The Korean asked again, making the other’s laugh. He really did just hear what he wanted to hear.

“Sure.” The petite one replied with a smile.

Chapter Text

“Give up your heart left broken
And let that mistake pass on
'Cause the love that you lost wasn't worth what it cost
And in time you'll be glad it's gone

Weep not for roads untraveled
Weep not for sights unseen
May your love never end and if you need a friend,
There's a seat here alongside me” The MC sang softly. It was one of the new songs they have been working on for the past one and a half weeks and he just couldn’t get those lines out of his head. He smiled, before he sighed. He really needed to focus on work now.

Due to some issues with his tablet, most of his finished assignments have been deleted. So, he needed to start from scratch and for the last day and a half he had done nothing else than sitting at his desk and doing that. He didn’t want to keep his customers waiting just because he had forgotten to make a backup.

After another hour he put the pen aside, stretched and let his hands run over his face and through his hair. This was exhausting. He looked at the time. ’Fuck, 2:30 a.m. already?’ He thought and yawned before saving his data and rubbing his eyes. “I’ll take care of the rest tomorrow.” He whispered and got up.

Ten minutes later he quietly made his way from the bathroom to his room. He then cuddled up in his blanket and looked to the other side of the bed. It was empty. Earlier, the singer had decided to spend the night in his own bed, as he didn’t' want to disturb Mike.

The MC sighed. It was really weird lying in bed without the other one next to him. He already missed his warmth and smell.

Right as he was about to turn on his side, he heard a slight knock on the door.

As it slowly opened, Chester’s head appeared. As their eyes met, he smiled.

“Bad dream?” Mike asked in a whisper as the singer came closer and got under the blanket. The other one rested his head on the MC’s shoulder, looking at him with a grin.

“Nope.” Chester replied, slowly letting his left hand wander underneath his boyfriend’s t-shirt. “I mean, I did wake up from a dream earlier but then I heard that you are still awake.”

“Do you want to tell me about it?” Mike looked at him with a soft smile and started to stroke the singer's back. He was happy, that he didn’t need to sleep alone now.

“Well, I somehow overslept and then was in a hurry.” The petite one started to explain. “And I just couldn’t get into the bathroom because you were in it and didn’t want to waste the water for the shower you’ve been taking somehow. So, the only way to get ready for work was to join you, to save water and our environment, as you called it.” He giggled.

“Sounds like me.” Mike replied with a grin.

“Yeah, and then you’ve pinned me to the wall and started touching me and well, here I am. I mean, why just dreaming of you when I can have you in reality?” He planted a kiss on his boyfriend’s chest.

“So, you’re only here so I can finish what my dream-self started?” The MC asked with a smirk.

Chester giggled. “To be honest I already took care of that by myself, sorry.”

“Oh, really?” Mike said, a hint of sadness in his voice.

“I’m sorry love, but I wouldn’t have made it to you in time anyway. I mean, you were naked, and we were under the shower. I just couldn’t take it for longer than a minute.” Chester answered, letting his hand wander from the other one’s chest into his brief black boxer. “I’ll show you what happened in detail in the shower tomorrow. You’ll see that I had no choice.” He grinned, kissing the half-Japanese softly and after stroking his member, rested his hand and head on Mike’s chest again.

The MC giggled. “Alright.” He smiled, pressing the singer a little more against his body.

For a few seconds they just lied in the dark, cuddling. “What about the bad dreams?” The half-Japanese suddenly asked. “Are those nightmares still bothering you? I mean, as you sleep here almost every night, I haven’t noticed you having them anymore.” He smiled softly letting his finger running up and down over the other one’s spine.

The singer pulled back a little, looking at him with a more serious face. “I didn’t have one in a long time.” He paused. “Do you think we spend too much time together? Would you rather sleep alone every now and then?” He asked.

Mike’s eyes widened. “What? No, no, no!” He quickly replied. “I’d never want that.” He pulled the petite one closer again, planting a soft kiss on his lips before smiling at him. He really didn’t.

There was silence for a few seconds.

“Do you?” The half-Japanese look at his friend questioning. He somehow was a little scared of the answer.

“Never.” Chester replied, smiling as well. And just like that they kissed again before the singer cuddled up on the other one’s side some more and soon, they fell asleep.

Mike slowly opened his eyes, looking at the blonde man next to him who was smiling softly.

“Morning love.”

“Good morning. How long have you been watching me in my sleep?” The MC asked in a whisper, grinning.

“Only for a few seconds.” Chester stated with a smirk. “I’m not that much of a pervert.”

“Well.” Mike replied with a grin, making the other one stuck out his tongue at him. “What time is it anyway?” The MC then asked and yawned.

“Around 10 a.m.” The singer said.

“Isn’t your appointment with your lawyer today?”

“Yeah, at 12 a.m.” Chester answered, still watching him.

“Do you want me to come with you?” Mike asked, letting his right hand run over the other one’s left cheek.

“What about your assignments?” The singer looked at him questioning.

“They’re almost done. I’ll just finish them later today. I’d rather be with you.” The MC smiled. “So?”

His counterpart silently shook his head smiling.

For a second, they didn’t say anything and just stared into each other’s eyes.

“I love you.” Chester said.

Mike didn’t response. This took him by surprise.

“I’m sorry if I throw you off the curve right now or if you think it’s too early for that but I wanted to tell you this for a while now.” The singer blushed a little. “At the beginning I thought it was just because you have always been so nice to me with my nightmares and stuff like that. We just get along. You became a really good friend. My best friend even.” He paused, taking the other one’s hand into his own. “But soon it was more than that. I love falling asleep in your arms and waking up next to you. I love how you plant a kiss on my forehead every night and pull me closer, thinking I was sleeping already.” He smiled softly.

Now it was Mike who blushed a little. He never knew that the singer was still awake. He just really enjoyed being that close to him before falling asleep.

“With you, everything seems so easy. Not like in my past relationships. I trust you and feel safe with you and I haven’t felt that a lot since my mum, well, since I had to take care of everything on my own.” Chester shot a weak smile. “With you, I can be just who I am, with all the highs and lows. I never have to think about what to say in front of you or must act different. You know more about my past then, well, then anyone. And yet, you’re still here. You never judge me.” The singer placed a kiss on the MC’s hand.

“I love how you absent-mindedly touch me somehow every time you’re close and how you make sure that I’m fine. You don’t do things to impress me or because you want anything in return. You are just a great guy. And I love that. I love the way you make me feel and how you support me. Please don't feel any pressure. It’s okay if you can’t say it back. I really just wanted to get this of my chest.” The petite one smiled again, planting a light kiss on the other one’s lips.

Just as Mike wanted to say something the door to his room swung open. “Fire! Guys, help me!” Brad yelled, panic in his eyes.

Linkin Park – Roads Untraveled

Chapter Text

Just as Mike wanted to say something the door to his room swung open. “Fire! Guys, help me!” Brad yelled, panic in his eyes.

Both singers jump up immediately. In the corridor was already a dense smoke.

“Fuck! What have you done Delson?” Mike asked, pulling up his shirt to cover his nose and mouth. “Chester, open the windows!” He demanded and the petite one did as he was told.

As the half-Japanese and the guitarist reached the kitchen, a pan on the stove and a part of the stove itself had caught fire. It wasn’t a big one but still could easily get out of control.

“Turn the stove off.” The MC said to Brad and then quickly took a lid out of the drawer and put it on the pan before carefully taking it away and placing it in the sink.

Suddenly the singer was next to them, throwing a shiny blanket on the stove. “Done.” He said and stepped back so all three of them now stood next to each other in the middle of the kitchen.

A few seconds passed.

“Fuck, thank you guys.” Brad said, a little out of breath. Even though it now seemed like the fire wasn’t that big of a deal, he felt overwhelmed and therefore called his roommates.

“What were you doing?” Mike asked, first looking at Brad and then at his boyfriend. “And where the hell did you find a fire blanket?”

“I wanted to get some practice in cooking.” The guitarist answered, letting his hand run through his hair.

“Why? You never stroked me as someone that likes cooking.” The MC asked.

“I wanted to make dinner for Elisa tomorrow.” He smiled shyly. His heart was beating normal again.

“Aw, really? That’s cute.” The singer smiled. “But I guess, you should rather take her out to dinner or maybe you could just cook together.” He shrugged his shoulders.

The guitarists face lit up. “Thanks Chaz, that’s a great idea.”

They both shared another smile while the MC carefully lifted the fire blanket from the stove, making sure everything was alright. As this was the case, he turned around to face the singer, holding up the blanket. “Why do you own such a thing?” He asked, raising an eyebrow.

Chester smiled sheepishly. “Back as I’ve lived with my father, he often tried cooking something while being completely drunk and I just bought one of those so I wouldn’t burn alive someday after he had forgot about the food on the stove and fallen asleep several times.” He replied.

There was silence for a second.

“If you want, we can just keep it here in the kitchen somewhere.” The singer continued speaking.

“Well, with someone like Brad living here, I’d appreciate that.” Mike grinned.

The guitarist stuck his tongue out at him.

“Alright, I’ll go and take a shower now. I don’t want my lawyer to think I live inside a deep fryer.” Chester laughed, making his way to the bathroom. At the door he turned around. “Love? Come on.” He said, looking at the MC.

Mike rose an eyebrow. He wasn’t sure what the other one wanted.

The singer started to grin. “Don’t you remember that I promised you to show you something?” He asked.

Suddenly it hit the half-Japanese. “Yeah, about how to save water and our environment, right.” He replied with a smirk, put the fire blanket on the counter and walked over to his boyfriend, who giggled.

“Oh, come on, do I need to take care of this mess all by myself now while you’re fucking?” Brad sounded desperate. Even though the smoke had disappeared completely, the oil and the grime covered the whole stove and parts of the wall and counter.

“We’ve already saved your and our lives.” Mike replied with a grin, shrugging his shoulders. His boyfriend next to him giggled once more, took his hand and both went into the bathroom, closing the door behind them.

Brad sighed and started cleaning up.

The next days had passed without anything dramatic happening and so it was finally the singer’s birthday.

Slowly Mike opened his eyes before looking around and then carefully turned on his right side to check the time on his phone. ’9:30 a.m. already? We should probably get up now.’ He thought, putting the phone away again.

He then turned on his other side again. As he caught sight of the man’s naked back that was facing him, he smiled. There was something he really wanted to tell him. After Chester had confessed his love to him, he somehow couldn't find the right moment to say, that he felt the same. He wanted to change that today.

He carefully slid closer. “Good morning birthday boy.” Mike whispered into the singer’s right ear before planting a few kisses on his neck.

“Morning love.” The other one replied quietly, sliding back, pressing himself against his boyfriend’s body.

The MC wrapped his right arm around Chester before kissing his neck once more. “Happy birthday.” He whispered, making the other giggle. “That tickles.” The singer said and turned around with a smile. “Thank you.”

As the fawn brown eyes looked at him, the Half-Japanese knew, that he was ready. His heart skipped a beat. He really needed to say it now.

He took the singer’s face into his right hand. “You are the most thoughtful, kind, funny, smart, good-looking and lovingly person I know.” Mike said and just like that he kissed him.

As Chester was caught off guard it took a moment for him to respond to the touch.

After an intimidate kiss the MC looked at his counterpart again. “I love you.” He smiled, before planting another soft kiss on the other one’s lips. It felt good saying it out loud.

The singer smiled. “I love you too.” He replied.

“I really wanted to tell you this for a long time already, I promise. What you’ve said back then was just wonderful and I wanted to tell you all the reasons why I love you. But after Brad had interrupted us, it never seemed like the right moment to say it back, you know. I’m sorry for not making it special or having such a great speech like you did.” The MC smiled weakly.

“Don’t be. That’s the best birthday present I could ever ask for.” Chester smiled, giving his counterpart a kiss.

“Well, that’s not your present, I just wanted to tell you that I love you.” Mike replied with a soft smile. Even though he somehow knew that his boyfriend wouldn’t mind, how he would confess his love to him, he still had been a little nervous.

“But I don’t need more than that.” The singer whispered, snuggling up at the other one.

“So, you don’t want your actual presents?” The MC asked with a grin, stroking the petite one’s back, planting a kiss on his head.

“Presents?” Chester pulled back again and looked at him in disbelief. “You mean there’s more than one?”

“Yeah, well, two actually." Mike replied. “But you need to wait for the bigger one until tonight.” He let his hand wander through the other one’s hair.

“But I don’t want to wait until tonight.” The singer grinned while grabbing the half-Japanese's crotch.

Mike laughed out loud. “That’s not the big one I meant.”

Chester pouted playfully.

“But of course, you can have that too, if you want.” The MC winked making the other one grin. “You will get the one I mean before your party later, okay?”

The singer giggled nodding.

The half-Japanese smiled. He was excited. Hopefully his boyfriend liked what he’d come up with.

“So, can I get the other one now?” Chester asked and you could see the excitement in his eyes.

“Sure.” Mike grinned and carefully moved so he could grab something from the small drawer of his nightstand. “Here.” He said, handing the other one an envelope.

"What’s that?” The singer looked at the half-Japanese questioning after sitting up.

“A present.” Mike replied with a soft smile.

“Favor?” Chester read bevor opening it, looking inside. “It’s empty. I’m confused.” He then stated laughing, shaking the envelope, taking another look inside.

Mike giggled. “Well, it’s a token gesture. I heard it through the grapevine that you have used your favor from Brad to get me my birthday present. And as I’m pretty sure it was a tough decision to make, as you would rather use it to be mean to Brad, I thought about gifting you mine.”

“It was an easy decision.” The singer smiled, kissing his counterpart softly again.

The half-Japanese's cheeks turned slightly red. “I still want you to have it.” He replied, smiling as well. “And even if it’s just to annoy the hell out of Brad.” They both shared a laugh.

“Thank you love.” The petite one smiled again.

“And now, we need to get up.” Mike kissed his boyfriend.

“What? Why? I’d like to stay in bed.” Chester replied, laying down again, wrapping his left arm around the other one’s body.

“You’ll see.” The MC answered, planting a kiss on his friend's head and carefully got out of bed.

In the kitchen, Brad already sat at the counter, drinking coffee. As he heard footsteps he turned around with a smile and got up. “Happy birthday Chaz.” He said, hugging the singer tight after they had reached him.

“Thank you.” Chester replied smiling and then sat down at one of the bar stools.

“Does he already know what we’re doing?” The guitarist asked Mike who was about to take two mugs out of the drawer to pour himself and his boyfriend some coffee. The MC just shook his head.

“Wait. What’s going on?” The singer looked at Brad questioning.

“Well, Rob, Dave, Joe and I wanted to invite you for brunch today.” The curly-haired one replied with a smile. “It’s our present for you.”

“Really?”

“Yeah, as you are the one always making breakfast for us, I thought about making some for you.” The guitarist laughed, “But as cooking isn’t one of the things, I’m good at and as your love already has another present, we all decided to take you out for lunch today. In one of those fancy restaurants with the big buffets.”

“Thank you!” Chester smiled broadly. “Do you know what Mike has planned?” He then whispered, looking at the guitarist while his boyfriend still got their coffee ready.

Brad just grinned. “Maybe.” He answered and winked at him.

“Hey! No spoilers.” The voice of the half-Japanese suddenly sounded. He now stood at the counter too and placed both mugs in front of him.

“I would never.” The guitarist giggled, taking a sip from his coffee. “We’ll met the others around 10:30 a.m. So, I’d like to be in the car around 10 a.m., okay?” He asked both singers who nodded before he made his way to the bathroom.

“Where are we going?” Chester asked, looking out of the window of the passenger seat. The surroundings didn't seem familiar to him.

“You’ll see.” Mike replied with a soft smile, still focusing on the traffic.

After having brunch, watching Netflix and some sexual interaction, they were now driving around in Brad’s car. The MC really hoped that his boyfriend would like his idea.

“Did I already tell you, that you are handsome?” The singer asked with a grin, as they stopped at a red light.

The half-Japanese laughed, facing him. “Yes, two times today already. I’m still not telling you where we’re going.”

“And what if I show you how handsome I think you are?” The petite one grinned, letting his hand wander to his boyfriend’s crotch.

“Nope, but feel free to try it.” The MC winked, making the singer giggle, before he focused back on the traffic.

Chester leaned over, planting a quick kiss on his friend’s cheek. “Alright, I’ll try to be more patient.” He said with a soft smile.

“You don’t have to be any longer. We’re here.” Mike replied after they had turned around the next corner. A few seconds later they had finally reached their destination. After parking they both got out of the car.

“Where are we?” The singer asked as they stood in the parking lot in front of a rather large and unusual shaped building.

“Let’s go in and find out.” The half-Japanese smiled, holding his right hand out for his boyfriend to grab it.

“Is this some kind of museum?” Chester asked as they went inside. The other one smiled. “Kind of.” He replied and they stopped in front of a big white door. “And now you need to close your eyes.” Mike continued.

His friend did as he was told. Still holding hands, the MC lead the singer through the door. Chester heard how it closed behind them.

“You can look now.” The voice of the half-Japanese was quiet.

The singer opened his eyes and looked around amazed. “What the-” He stopped mid-sentence. He couldn’t believe his eyes.

They stood in a big rather dark hall where hundreds of stars covered the walls and ceiling. It felt like they stood in the middle of the universe. Never before had he seen such a beautiful midnight sky.

“Happy birthday.” Mike whispered into the singer’s ear. “I hope you like it.”

Chester turned to the right, facing his boyfriend. “Love, it’s beautiful.” He replied. His expression was a mixture between surprise and joy. He just couldn’t believe that the half-Japanese came up with something like this. He always wanted to visit a planetarium.

“Yeah, I thought, as you already love the stars on our ceiling, this here would even be better.” The MC smiled. He really was glad, that his boyfriend liked it here.

“Thank you. I really love it.” The singer said smiling, giving him a kiss. “Our ceiling?” He then asked with a grin.

Mike blushed a little. “You’re welcome. And yeah.” He replied, grinning as well.

Chester reached for the hands of the MC. “I love you.” He smiled, kissing him again.

“Love you too.” Mike smiled as well. “And now, let’s eat something while we enjoy the view.” He pointed to the middle of the room. Now, as the eyes of the singer had adjusted to the lack of daylight, he noticed the blanket there. Also, he could see a small vase with a beautiful blue-ish flower in it, which had a picnic basket next to it.

“You've cooked?” Chester asked as they sat down on the red checked blanket.

Mike giggled. “Um, no.” He replied, opened the basket and took out two containers. As he took of the lid, the singer started laughing. In one of it were at least two pounds of fries and the other one was filled with buns stacked with meat, cheese, salat and another bun.

“A picnic with burgers and fries. Awesome.” The singer laughed again.

“And wine.” The MC grinned, reaching once more into the basket before holding up a bottle of red wine.

“Are you trying to get me drunk before the party even starts?” Chester asked laughing.

“Maybe.” Mike giggled, filling up two glasses but his own just a little. “To you.” He continued speaking, handing his friend the other one before they clink glasses.

“Thank you love. No one has ever done something so beautiful and romantic for me.” The singer smiled sheepishly.

“You deserve all of it.” The MC replied, smiling at him. “I love you.”

“I love you too.” Chester leaned in for a passionate kiss.

Thirty minutes later they were done eating and had made some room on the blanket so they could lay down, watching the stars.

“When do you want to be at the bar?” Mike asked, holding the singer in his arm as his head rested on the MC’s left shoulder.

“Never.” Chester replied with a smile. “I’d rather stay here with you for the rest of the evening.” He pulled his boyfriends hand to his face, kissing it.

Suddenly a shooting star crossed the midnight sky.

“Oh wow, did you see that?” The petite one asked excited.

“Yeah, I didn’t know that they had something like that here too.” Mike replied. He too was surprised.

“We need to make a wish.” Chester spoke.

A second passed.

"Do you want to know what I wished for?” The singer asked quietly, still looking at the ceiling.

“But you’re not supposed to tell me. If you tell me, it won’t come true, right?” Mike replied, softly stroking the other one’s hair with his other free hand.

“But you need to know.”

“Okay, well, what did you wish for?” The half-Japanese smiled softly.

Chester sat up a little, so his upper body was now leaning above his boyfriend, smiling at him. “That everything just stays the way it is.“

The end.