Archive of Our Own ^beta

i.

Working part-time at the company you’re supposed to inherit isn’t easy when you’ve also got a full-time job as an idol.

Though, maybe pop star is a more fitting term.

Reo may be a super elite who is good at everything, but, naturally, even he’ll struggle with that kind of workload.

He’s lucky he managed to convince his parents against sending him to college as well, otherwise, he might have died from stress. Or, maybe he’d become an alcoholic.

It’s with an exhausted sigh that he knocks on the door to Nagi and his shared apartment complex.

“I’m home.” Reo announces, too tired to bother with his usual cheerful demeanour.

God, can someone strike down corporations? 

Reo’s hands have been itching to string the melody stuck in his head, playing past his lips in hums, on the guitar in their apartment.

Unfortunately, he doesn’t think he has it in him, after the hectic day that was today.

Instead of greeting him back, his (career, completely platonic) partner continues lying on their very nice (and very inviting) couch, probably on his phone, seemingly oblivious to Reo’s presence.

Reo lets out a huff at being ignored, softly shutting the door behind him and taking off his mask, coat and shoes in the quiet room, punctuated only by the incessant tapping that Nagi does on his phone.

A sort of fond smile graces Reo’s features, as he walks towards the couch, able to clearly see Nagi absorbed in his phone, his brows furrowed in concentration.

So cute. At least someone had a good time today.

Reo sinks down on the floor next to the couch, inwardly wincing at the ache in his muscles, the soft thud of which finally catches Nagi’s attention.

“Ah.” He mumbles, his phone screen going blank before Reo could sneak a glance at what had his treasure so enamoured. “It’s Reo.”

“It is Reo.” Reo says, leaning forward to rest his head on the soft, plush fabric of the couch. “How nice of you to notice me.”

“Sorry.” Nagi apologizes, genuinely sincere in a way that makes Reo lie awake when he should be sleeping, getting up so that he can use the couch for its actual purpose (shocking, really), lightly pulling at Reo’s hand so that he’d join him. “Gaming stuff. Got too into it.”

Reo laughs weakly, trying not to overwhelm his already hoarse vocal cords, following Nagi up.

“What gaming stuff was it?” Reo asks, a little curious, considering it’s been a while since Nagi got so hyper fixated on a game. “Something new from some indie developer?”

“Nah,” Nagi corrects, his grip on the phone tightening. “Just, gamer talk.” He offers up as his only explanation.

Reo doesn’t press, even though he’s confused, because he doubts an explanation would clear things up for him.

“How was work?” Nagi asks, pulling Reo closer to him, trying to nuzzle his face in Reo’s neck, only to be stopped by Reo’s hand.

“Exhausting.” Reo says with a sigh. “And, gross. I’m going to go take a shower.”

“There’s warm water.” Nagi says, though he doesn’t seem quite happy, the spoiled creature he is. “I didn’t want to run a bath cause I wasn’t sure when you were gonna be back.”

“So considerate.” Reo says with a smile, touched at the gesture, even though he would do it for Nagi without second thoughts.

It’s nice to know that Nagi cares.

“I left clothes for you on the counter, too.” Nagi says, his expression morphing into his signature ‘OxO’. “Praise me, Reo.”

“Ah, thank you, treasure.” Reo says, a little confused. “But, I’m going out to that meeting later, I thought I told you?”

“It’s late.” Nagi says, his mouth forming a pout. 

“I know, it’s stupid.” Reo tries to placate him, a little miffed himself. “But, alas, what can you do—”

“It’s going to rain outside.” Nagi cuts him off. “You shouldn’t go.”

The statement makes Reo pause for several beats, his eyes narrowing and his brows furrowing in confusion.

“…It’s—uh, it’s the middle of summer.” Reo says slowly, not really knowing how to convey the news. 

“No, but—” Nagi starts, dead serious. “I checked the weather forecast, and it said it was going to rain.”

“What?” Reo exclaims, utterly baffled. “I just came from outside, I think I could tell if it was going to rain.”

“No, here.” Nagi says, unlocking his phone and showing Reo a ‘screenshot’. “See? It says it’s going to rain.”

Reo thinks he’s gone delirious, or that he’s hallucinating.

“Nagi…” Reo looks at him with unadulterated concern. “…That’s a screenshot from the Stardew Valley UI.”

“No it’s not.” Nagi says simply, not even blinking at the accusation. “They’ll probably cancel the meeting since it’s going to rain, you should stay inside.”

“Nagi, it’s not going to rain, what are you on about—” Reo says, incredulous, pulling his own phone out to check the actual weather report. “See! It’s just a normal summer day.”

“Are you seriously trusting that over me?” Nagi asks, tilting his head. “I’m your treasure.”

“What does that have to do with this?” Reo says, a little harsher than he meant to. In his defense, he’s very tired, and Nagi’s being, what’s the word?

Irritating.

“I told you,” Nagi says. “It’s going to rain. Why aren’t you believing me?”

“Because it’s not! Why aren’t you believing me?” Reo retaliates. 

“I’m telling you, it’s going to rain.”

“Look at the windows.” Reo says, pointing to their balcony. “It’s a clear sky.”

“So?” Nagi asks. “It’s still going to rain.”

“No, it isn’t—” Reo’s words are cut off by a soft ‘ding!’ of a notification, alerting him about a message.

It’s from his dad.

It simply reads, ‘Meeting cancelled. Have a good night.’.

Reo’s really fucking confused.

“See?” Nagi says, flicking Reo’s nose, his pout returning. “I told you.”

“Oh my god,” Reo says with disbelief, before pivoting. “I sincerely doubt it was because of your fake rain.”

“Well,” Nagi says, shrugging. “You’re still staying home. The takeout I ordered should be here soon.”

“Hold on,” Reo says, sharp. “We’re not just moving on from that.”

“It’s alright, Reo,” Nagi says, slumping against Reo’s shoulder. “I don’t need you to admit I was right.”

“You weren’t right!” Reo says, a little offended.

“Why did he cancel the meeting, then?” Nagi asks.

“Not because of the nonexistent rain.” Reo adamantly states. “Maybe some plans or reservations fell through. I’ll ask tomorrow.”

“Yeah,” Nagi yawns. “Whatever you say.”

“Nagi—”

“You should go take a shower before you blow a fuse.” Nagi says. “I’m expecting you to feed me for all my hard work today.”

Reo swallows, composing himself quite easily.

“Fine, treasure.” Reo says, patting his head as he gets up. “Good job.”

Reo walks off, into their shared bedroom and to their master bathroom.

He can see why a couple of their friends call Nagi a huge jerk.

Pettiness prickles his thoughts.

Two can play a game.

ii.

Convincing your not-Father-in-law (yet) to cancel his ‘important’ (debatable) meetings is a hassle.

But, as Nagi Seishirou has learned, things that are a hassle are important.

Reo hasn’t been able to relax, it was only his duty as a (soon to be) husband to help him out.

Though, he doubts Reo will see it that way. Something-something ‘why did you do that’ and blah-blah ‘I’m angry at you and I’m very pretty and I have responsibilities that I can’t skip’. He doesn’t want Reo to be upset with him.

How troublesome.

Sometimes, Nagi thinks Reo should leave some of the thinking to him and just chill a little. He chose Nagi cause he’s a competent genius, after all.

And maybe lying about the weather was not the best move, but it’s whatever.

The only weak link in his flawless plan was Papa Mikage himself. Nagi wasn’t sure if he would keep his mouth shut if Reo questions him.

Anticipation makes his hands tremble around the steering wheel, lying back on the cool leather seat of the car, as he waits outside the skyscraper that is Mikage Offices.

He’s picking up Reo after work.

Normally, Reo would get around on his motorcycle, but, since they had a dinner reservation at some fancy hotel (high profile, so that they wouldn’t be recognised) to get to, a car would probably be best.

Nagi was always the one driving the car. While Reo had a natural talent on his bike, he got, ahem, road rage, quite easily when he was the designated driver.

Nagi didn’t want to die, and he liked taking care of Reo, so he naturally stepped up.

His dull spirits were instantly corrected when he heard the distinct sound of the car door opening.

Reo’s here.

“Hey.” Reo says, a frown on his face as he puts his bag on the backseat. 

Huh. That’s weird. 

“Hi, Reo.” Nagi says, as Reo sits in the passenger’s seat, his arms crossed and the frown softening into a more neutral expression. 

“Treasure.” Reo simply addresses, as he tilts his head back and sighs. 

That’s really weird. Normally, he would be going on about the work day, his movements adorably animated and his voice tinted with passion, whether he was complaining or praising, his eyes shining with a glint Nagi wishes he could frame.

But, the expressive Reo was quiet as Nagi pulled out of the Mikage parking, moving on to the main road.

It’s at about this point that Nagi starts panicking.

Is Reo angry?

Why isn’t he talking.

Did he find out that Nagi got his meeting cancelled yesterday? Is he that upset about it?

Did he do something else wrong?

Whathappenedwhathappenedwhathappened—

“Nagi!” Reo says abruptly, as Nagi notices that he needs to swerve, softly controlling the movement of the car. “Look at the road! Are you okay?”

Reo looks at him with concern lacing his features, and Nagi has to forcibly pull his gaze away to pay attention to the road.

“Nagi?” Reo asks, a little more stern.

“Sorry,” Nagi says, taking a deep breath. “It’s nothing.”

“Your head is going to start hurting if you think too much.” Reo says, his gaze returning to outside the windows. “Just shut your brain off. Pull over and I can drive—”

“No.” Nagi immediately shuts the idea down.

“Jeez,” Reo says with a huff. “Okay, just make sure you don’t kill us. We need the comeback and my father’s blood first.”

Oh. Phew.

“You're upset with him?” Nagi asks, calming down slightly.

“An asshole.” Reo mumbles. “I hope he gets— God, I can’t even curse him cause he’s my dad!”

Nagi lets out a sigh of relief at the words. At least Reo wasn’t mad at him.

“…Are you happy that I’m fighting with my dad?” Reo asks, slowly, tilting his head.

“No!” Nagi says in a panic. “I mean, I was worried that you were upset with me.”

“What did you do.” Reo asks, narrowing his eyes, blunt and far more serious.

“Nothing.” Nagi says, a little too quickly.

“If you didn’t do anything, then why would I be upset?”

“Irrational fear. You’re normally much happier in the car.”

Reo sighs, dropping the questioning. “Sorry. I’m out of it today.”

“Could tell.” Nagi mumbles, a little (a lot) worried.

“Can we play music?” He asks. “The quiet is too loud.”

“Can do.” Nagi responds, happy to go along with whatever Reo wants.

Out of the corner of his eye, he sees Reo plug his phone into the audio system, picking a track.

Nagi believes that the horrors are over with, resolved and defeated.

He’s sorely mistaken, proven wrong only seconds later.

‘You said your phone was broken, just forgot to charge it,

Whole outfit you’re wearing, god I hope it’s ironic 

Did you just we’re finished? Didn’t know we started—’

Huh.

This song seems, a little targeted.

Reo bops his head along, his exhaustion less obvious, a serene expression on his face.

Huh.

‘It’s all just so familiar, baby what do you call it?

Is it, stupid?

Or is it, slow?

Maybe it’s, useless?

But there’s a cuter word for it, 

I know!

Manchild—’

No, this song was definitely targeted.

Nagi sneaks yet another glimpse at Reo, only to find him casually humming along.

Nagi’s palms begin to sweat.

Did he fuck up or something? Forgot some date, maybe accidentally missed something, said something stupid—

“Why so sexy if so dumb?” Reo sings along, almost oblivious. “And how survive the earth so long?”

The first thing Nagi registers is how heavenly Reo’s voice is. The notes match his voice perfectly, his tone coy and playful, the range of the sound showing off his impeccable breath control.

Nagi thinks that this style definitely suits Reo’s voice. He’ll be sure to try and incorporate it into their comeback vocals.

The second thing he registers is that he’s totally, utterly screwed.

‘If I’m not there it won’t get done,

I choose to blame your mom.’

“Manchild,” Reo sings, with a teasing lilt, dragging out the word to match the original. “Why you always come runnin’ to me?”

Think, Nagi, think!

What did you do wrong?

“Fuck my life,” Reo hums, a smile finally decorating his face, making direct eye contact with Nagi. “Won’t you let an innocent woman be?”

Nagi considers crashing the car.

“Why-uh,” He finally gathers the courage to ask, interrupting Reo in the middle the chorus. “Why are you playing this song?”

“Am I not allowed to?” Reo asks, a smirk playing on his lips, a hand reaching up to cradle the side of his face, his fingers threading into his hair, unfairly attractive in a way that implied he wasn’t messing with Nagi’s head. “It’s Sabrina. Iconic.”

“Yeah.” Nagi says with a cough. “Just—”

“Just, what?” Reo asks, sticking his tongue out.

Yeah, no. He was definitely playing with Nagi’s heartstrings.

“Is something wrong?” Reo asks, acting innocent like the cheeky meanie he is.

“Nothing’s wrong.” Nagi says. “Is there a reason you like the song, or?”

“It’s relatable.” Reo says with a cute chuckle.

Now Nagi was offended.

“No, it’s not.” Nagi rebukes, admittedly childishly.

“How are you going to tell me what I relate to?” Reo asks, more giggles spilling from his lips. 

“Play a nice song.” Nagi insists, pouting. “Or, play one of our own songs.”

“This is a nice song, no? And I’m quite sick of our music after belting it out for three hours straight this morning.”

“Yeah, but it’s not a nice one for you.” Nagi insists.

“What is, then?” Reo asks.

“‘So high school’ by Taylor Swift.” Nagi says. “That’s more relatable.”

“God,” Reo mumbles. “You’re such a sap.”

“Reoooo.”

“Fine, treasure.”

The two of them end up late to their dinner reservation.

iii.

“You’re performing in Italy.” Anri says to the group, first thing when they walk in. “We’re performing the latest EP, so the formations are the same. Isagi, Hiori and Yukimiya, you’re up for vocal practice, Otoya and Bachira, practice the choreography and Rin, Shidou, Karasu and Zantetsu, go through the whole performance.”

“Reo, Chigiri, Nagi, you’re coming with me.” Anri says, stern, without question, turning around and walking them to a secluded room.

That wasn’t a good sign.

Reo sighs as he follows behind her, pulling Nagi along, Chigiri walking at their side.

There was only one conversation to be had.

“It’s time for the end of this era.” Anri firmly declares. “We’re doing two shows in Italy, we need at least one new song to debut at the end of the second performance.”

Reo hears Chigiri sigh from beside him, and feels Nagi drop his head onto his shoulder, with him pushing him back to stand upright.

It’s predictable. Reo expected this, really.

Reo prided himself on being on top of all his work, for always being prepared.

This time, however, even Reo was stumped, empty handed and burnt out.

Creative inspiration was a bitch, only striking at the most inconvenient times.

“Listen,” Anri says, sighing herself as she takes in the response from her talent. “We’re planning on releasing a new album late next year. This song will be a teaser of sorts, part of that album roll out. I only need one song, something fresh.”

“Are we headlining the event?” Reo asks.

“Yes.” Anri responds. “You can see why this is a big deal.”

“Do we have to change the costumes too?” Chigiri tilts his head as he asks.

“New era, new visuals.” Anri says, and Reo can already feel Chigiri’s spirit deflating from beside him. “Ness and Aryu are a little busy right now, but I’ll arrange a meeting with them as soon as they’re available.”

“Aryu…” Chigiri mumbles under his breath with a scoff. “We need to hire a new stylist.”

“Do we have any themes?” Reo tries to ignore the dimming aura in the room. “Any particular sounds, and colors? Nagi and I will need some kind of framework for the production.”

“I’ve emailed mood boards to your business accounts.” Anri clarifies. “But it’s not anything permanent, I know you three do better when it’s outside the box. I’ll handle PR as usual.”

With a lethargic energy, Reo pulls out his phone, instantly opening the concept email Anri had sent them.

Summertime. Soft pastels and clouds, a dreamy, almost soothing sound.

It wasn’t too different from what they were currently doing.

The aesthetic recently leaned a lot into sparkles and brightness, perhaps to deal with the increasingly somber state of world.

And, EGO15T will provide them their much needed respite, an oasis of comfort.

Their current era was curated to do just that. The EP all of them worked tirelessly to bring to life fixated on fun, selfishness and adrenaline.

To put yourself first, for once.

The new concept was similar, but a little more mellowed out. Coming back down to earth after the high, able to reconcile both halves of yourself.

Nagi’s writing would suit this very well, Reo thinks. A sort of hazy calm, lazy peace.

It wasn’t very exciting, though. Not for Reo.

Slow jazz, acoustic guitar, maybe some trumpets if Reo felt fancy.

And raw lyrics, trying to ease oneself into comfort out of fantasy.

Maybe around ten tracks? To show the dichotomy of that kind of experience, of how you’re both serene and tense when life slows down, half and half.

It’s a little repetitive, though. Reo’s sure he’s got something like this in his notebook.

“We’ll need less sparkle.” Chigiri says, looking over his shoulder. “More subdued than our current costumes. And less bold colours.”

“Rin’s not gonna be happy.” Reo jokes. “Nor will Bachira and Shidou.”

“Maybe I’ll be to convince Karasu to get rid of that godawful haircut of his.” Chigiri teases back.

“Will you be able to do it?” Anri asks, her voice cutting through the small moment of calm, gentle yet sharp.

“Yes.” Reo answers without a hitch. 

“You’re dismissed.” Anri says. “Get to work. I’ll call when I get a hold of Ness and Aryu.”

The three of them get up without a word, with Chigiri rattling off his ideas out loud as Reo’s head buzzes with thoughts.

Nagi remains quiet. He’s always quiet in the studio.

As soon as they escape Anri’s air-conditioned carpeted office, Reo’s hit with the unpleasant heat of their studio, his hair brushing against his neck uncomfortably.

He let his hair down since he had left the apartment with Nagi right after a bath.

A fact that’s becoming increasingly more unbearable the more the minutes pass.

They take up a small unused corner, laptops and papers decorating the area, mixed in with the clutter of pens and phones, sitting on the floor as they brainstorm.

Reo flips through his notebook, his trusty handbag at his side and a lazy Nagi lounging comfortably on his lap.

It’s hard to focus when his hair sticks to his sweaty neck.

His hums are distracted as he tries to make out his own handwriting.

“You ok?” Nagi asks, not bothering to open his eyes, as Reo messes up a melody he was trying to show him.

Reo caves, setting his notebook down and pulling his handbag to himself off of the floor, rummaging through its contents in slight annoyance as he tries to find the little container of hair ties he always keeps on him.

Actually, isn’t it taking too long to find it?

Reo finds a pack of gum he hasn’t used in a year and is most definitely expired instead of the small purple container.

What?

His movements grow increasingly frantic, as he contemplates dumping out the entire contents of his purse onto the floor.

He’s only keeping himself sane by continuously reciting the fact that he’s at work and that he needs to be professional and he can’t be crashing out over fabric and rubber.

“Nagi?” Reo asks, too irritated to use his soft tone. “Did you see what happened to my hair ties?”

Nagi just turns over in his lap, yawning.

“Nagi?” Reo asks again, way nicer. He’s been dealing with the spoiled brat for years now, after all.

“No.” He says, almost smug. “Maybe the universe doesn’t want you to tie your hair.”

Huh.

Reo flicks the stupid asshole’s forehead, before directing his attention to Chigiri.

“What.” Chigiri says, not looking up from his laptop as he feels Reo’s stare on him.

“Do you have a spare hair tie?” Reo asks. “Or, happen to know what happened to mine?”

“Sorry,” Chigiri says. “I don’t wear them. Prefer headbands.”

Reo sighs at the expected answer, no less disappointed.

“I have one.” Nagi says, out of the blue, like he was waiting for the chance, pulling up his hoodie sleeve to expose one thin white band.

“Why didn’t you say anything before?” Reo says, settling his bag down and reaching for the accessory (not purple, but whatever). “But, thank you—”

Nagi pulls his hand away, out of Reo’s reach, sitting up out of Reo’s lap, nearly pulling a squeak of surprise from Reo.

Dumbfounded, Reo just gapes at him. Distantly, he can feel Chigiri give them the most massive side eye.

“I’ll tie it for you.” Nagi says, raising his hand so that Reo couldn’t take the hair tie from him.

“Nagi.” Reo says, stern. “We’re at work. Give me the hair tie.”

“No.” Nagi responds stubbornly.

“Nagi.”

“Come on, it’s one thing—”

“You’re horrible at tying hair!” Reo exclaims. “You pulled my hair so hard last time, I’d rather have a serial killer do it instead—”

“Wow.”

“Nagi!”

“We’re at work.” Nagi parrots. “Just get it over with.”

“Hold on,” Reo says, finally connecting the dots. “Did you do something to my hair ties?”

There’s a beat of silence, which is all the proof Reo needs.

“Nagi!”

“That’s irrelevant—”

“Where are they? You know I like them—”

“Honestly—”

“How could you—”

“Can you two shut up?” An angry, prickly voice interrupts. “Save your arguments for when you’re playing house.”

“Rin.” Reo greets, utterly embarrassed by his conduct, as Nagi remains silent. “Sorry—”

“Here.” Rin says, holding out Reo’s beloved purple case of hair ties. “Stop whining, now.”

“Rin…” Nagi says, betrayed.

“This prick of yours told me to hide it from you when he came in.” Rin explains as Reo plucks the cherished container out of his grasp. “But then I felt bad. So take.”

“Rin…” Reo says with shiny eyes. “I didn’t know you had a heart.”

“Rin…” Nagi says with a pout. “I thought we were friends.”

“Fuck both of you.” Rin bluntly says before leaving.

iv.

“No, chat, I’m not terminally ill.” Nagi blankly says. “I just like hoodies.”

The buzzing of chat messages punctuate the little beeps and boops of the speedrun Nagi was currently trying to beat.

Streaming was a fun side hobby. Nagi got to play his video games, make money, promote his music and make Reo happy all in one.

His hands are practised, moving effortlessly over the keyboard.

His streams were mostly quiet. He answered questions and gave dry responses.

For some reason, the internet ate it up. 

“Any new projects?” Nagi reads off a donation. “I wasn’t born yesterday, user gogoichan. Can’t say.”

@gogoichan: I hate this guy /gen

@goatsagi🔥: who does bro think he’s fooling 

@rinswifey: he ain’t getting sued today 

@kokomig: does he know that the Italy announcement already came out

@suprmnluv: I don’t think he knows he’s alive 

Same old, same old.

“No, user chobono.” Nagi tiredly responds. “I don’t have a girlfriend and I’m also not sexist.”

This was the top question everyone had for him. Almost once every stream, someone would bring up Nagi’s nonexistent heterosexual relationship.

Nagi wasn’t a girlfriend guy. He didn’t know much about his sexuality or exploring it.

He was a Reo guy. He knew Reo, and he knew that he wouldn’t stop feeling when it came to him.

Publically admitting that? Nagi had no problem with it, and would shout it out for the whole world to hear.

If it didn’t mean ruining his career, his friends’ career and his actual relationship with Reo.

Reo isn’t supposed to be sad. Not if Nagi could help it.

A happy smile. Reo should always be smiling.

‘What are you looking for in a partner?’ Nagi reads in his chat, and he ignores it.

“What’s my favorite food?” Nagi reads out. “Again, user chikipe? It’s lemon tea.”

@goatsagi🔥: what is blud saying 

@lovelier: lemon tea isn’t food…

@ropidon: yo @chikipe are u new here?

@boniuke: lemon tea is like his one true

@boniuke: second only to Mikage sama, ofc

@rinswifey: he’s got tunnel vision when it comes to citrus and purple 💔

@lovelier: omg don’t even get him STARTED on mikage sama

@goatsagi🔥: I know he’s gay I just can’t prove it 

“You’re being mean, chat.” Nagi says, lazy and unserious. “Reo isn’t the only thing I talk about.”

His argument with his chat is interrupted by a set of sequential knocks on his office door, and Nagi instantly turns off his mic.

“Reo?” Nagi asks. 

“Are you streaming?” Reo asks. “My meeting with Anri and Rin ended.”

“Yeah.” Nagi says, glancing over at his monitor. “Come in. My chat’s asking about you.”

“Really?” Reo says with a sigh. “Your chat can’t find out we live together.”

“They won’t.” Nagi insists. 

He unmutes his mic, in tandem with the door opening to reveal only a slightly tired Reo.

Reo’s eyes go from tired to upbeat in an instant, as the reality of being on stream kicks in, a small smile forming on the corners of his lips.

“Hi, chat.” Reo greets, warm, far less electric than he’s known for being in public interviews and press releases.

It’s comforting to see him like this. For Nagi, at least.

@jumino: speak of the devil, huh

@kingbarou✅[MOD]: oh great, it’s asshole #2 

“Thanks for the warm welcome, Barou San.” Reo says with an amused huff. 

Reo looks around for something, which confuses Nagi. “Hm?”

“We really need to get more chairs in here.” Reo mumbles under his breath. 

Nagi tugs at his hands, equal parts expectant and unamused at the comment, and Reo only takes one moment to glance at the ongoing livestream, before taking his place on Nagi’s lap, hanging his legs on one of the armrests and using the other as support for his spine.

Content, Nagi hums as he continues his gameplay, leaving the whole interacting with

chat thing to Reo.

“You look cute, Mikage sama.” Reo reads out, amused. “Thank you, user rinswifey. I actually tried, today.”

@chikipe: i’m sorry is he sitting in his LAP!?!?

@gogoichan: u really are new here @chikipe

@rinswifey: u get used to it @chikipe

@goatsagi🔥: wdym u tried TODAY u look majestic everyday bruh

@suprmnluv: I can’t tell if he’s pick me or insecure 

@hohohoxmas: reo I think ur pretty too!!! 

“Why am I always here?” Reo reads out with a grimace. “How blunt, user lokilop.”

“I gave him a key.” Nagi says in response. 

“His apartment’s cozier than mine.” Reo adds on, the lie slipping effortlessly past their tongues.

Nagi’s gameplay improves a lot with Reo comfortably sprawled on top of him, counterintuitive in a way.

“What are you looking for in a partner?” Reo reads out, his usual smirk adorning his features, Nagi’s blood running cold at the words. “My, you’re very forward, user goatsagi.”

Nagi takes a split second to death glare Reo, only to be met with a cheeky smile and an overly satisfied hum.

“That’s definitely a question.” Nagi mumbles. 

“A question that needs answering, Na~gi~ kun.” Reo says, teasing, with just the slightest hints of mockery. “Your fans are awaiting your response.”

Damn it. 

Maybe Reo wasn’t the best person, especially when you were the victim of his teasing.

No, that’s blasphemy. Cool it, Nagi.

With a deep and exhausted sigh, Nagi rattles off the most believable answer, something that wasn’t too revealing and not entirely fake.

“I’d like someone nice.” Nagi says and he cringes at the words, pulling a laugh from his Reo. “Someone who’s thoughtful, likes thinking. And, they need to be caring.”

Reo hums, his eyes narrowing slightly at his response, their eyes locking into a dead stare.

Nagi notes the cute furrowing of his perfectly trimmed eyebrows, his eyes ever observant to the way Reo’s searches his expression, like he’s trying to find something.

It seems he’s found it. Or, maybe he just gave up.

“That’s…” Reo pauses for a moment, averting his eyes from both Nagi and the webcam, like he’s trying to escape Nagi’s gaze, and Nagi swears he sees the slightest hints of red colouring his cheek, subtle enough to pass as the trick of the lighting. “Surprisingly sincere.”

“You have to answer too.” Nagi insists, not wanting his embarrassment to be the only one that’s public. 

“I like people who are interesting.” Reo says, and Nagi has to suppress a scoff at the generic answer. “People who know what they want, and who will want to make me happy.”

The last part does make Nagi raise a brow.

“That’s kind of bare minimum.” Nagi says. 

Reo doesn’t respond, choosing to teasingly flick Nagi’s forehead, a small, haphazardly put smile gracing his features.

“And you make fun of me.” Nagi murmurs, his hand coming up to caress the small of Reo’s back.

“Stream’s over.” Nagi bluntly asserts, his hand making quick work of exiting his game and leaving the streaming interface, Reo jolting slightly in surprise at the abruptness.

“Huh?” Reo lets spill. “Nagi—”

“Spill.” Nagi bluntly says. “You’re doing that thing when you’re thinking too much.”

“Thought you liked thinking.” Reo says with a roll of his eyes, offhanded, a little biting.

“I thought you like when someone wants you to be happy.” Nagi counters. “Spill.”

“We’re performing on Monday.” Reo says. “Anri San said some people in Osaka backed out of performing, so we have their spot now.”

“Huh.” Nagi says. “That’s a crazy time crunch.”

“We were talking about the song too.” Reo says. “I showed her your lyrics and the sound I was thinking of, and she liked it, but..”

“But?”

“It’s uninspired. I don’t like it.”

Nagi hums, urging Reo to continue talking.

“It’s frustrating.” Reo says. “It just doesn’t feel right, it’s like a cash grab. It’s supposed to be the first single for our album roll out, too. We have to present our best.”

“I felt that too.” Nagi says. “It feels like the lyrics were talking in circles, and the production doesn’t add to it, it’s just catchy.”

“We’ve done meaningless songs before.” Reo reiterates. “But, this doesn’t feel like that either. I’m not proud of it. I’m not excited for this album either.”

“And, we only have a month until Italy!” Reo says, his speech turning increasingly messy and fast paced. “I don’t know how to fix it—”

“Is it just the song you’re worried about?” Nagi asks, soft.

“What else?” Reo mumbles, his eyes averting once again.

“Well, then.” Nagi says, resting his head against Reo’s chest, listening to his heartbeat that sounds like it’s playing a melody. “Spill.”

+1

Company mandated trips were exhausting.

Fun, but exhausting.

Being a part of an idol group entailed lots of travelling. 

Lots and lots of travelling, a living nightmare for Nagi who hated any and all forms of transport and had a very huge fear of flying and aeroplanes.

Luckily, they could catch a train to Osaka. The trip was still awful, but at least Nagi wasn’t having a panic attack for the majority of it.

He still squeezed the plushness of Reo’s thigh for comfort, even if he didn’t really need it.

“This is a nice ryokan.” Reo says, dropping their bags onto the floor. “Private onsen too, seems like Anri San and Ego splurged this time.” He nods approvingly as he looks out through their open back door to the porch.

“What do we need an onsen for?” Nagi mumbles, grimacing at the lack of cushioned bedding, mourning his nice bed at home.

Normally, Nagi had little preferences, but he knew well that he liked a bed a lot more than he liked a futon.

“I mean,” Reo says, yawning a little. “We’re here for two days and three nights, it’s the least management can do.” 

“And it’s night one.” Nagi says, letting himself fall to the floor and lay on the tatami. “I’m sleepy, wake me up when you’ve set up the futon.”

“Absolutely not.” Reo declares, loud and boisterous despite the toll of travel. “Today’s our only free day, since from tomorrow onwards it’s going to be day and night practice, so, come on.”

Reo pulls at his arms to get up, and Nagi can already tell that this is one of those stubborn things he isn’t going to budge on.

With a sigh, Nagi lets himself be pulled up, staring his bubbly sparkling partner down.

“It’s night, and we have this entire place booked.” Reo says. “We should totally go to the onsen. No one else will be there right now. Not any stranger, at least.”

“No.” Nagi bluntly disagrees. “I’m sleepy.”

“And I’m tired too!” Reo exclaims. “Listen, a nice relaxing bath to close out the day. And we can sleep in. You love those things! I think it’s perfect.”

“A bath does sound nice.” Nagi mumbles, contemplative.

“See!” Reo says, and he pulls Nagi along, prepping for the small detour.

At least the scenery was good. Made for good inspiration.

 x

10:38.

It was currently 10:38 p.m.

According to Nagi’s phone, at least.

As Reo had predicted, there was no one else in the onsen. That’s probably the main reason why Nagi was allowed to bring his phone.

Sitting on the edge of the onsen with his feet in the water and a towel over his lap, Nagi figured this made the perfect place to get his dailies over with, with the pleasant steam calming him.

“Are you seriously playing?” Reo asks, swimming up next to him, his cheeks flushed a pleasant red from the warmth and no less mischievous than earlier, letting his elbows cross on the space next to Nagi, supporting his weight.

“Mhm.” Nagi says, his eyes not leaving his phone screen. “‘S relaxing.”

“You’re here to soak.” Reo says, sticking out his tongue. “Put the phone down, mister.”

“Boss rush.” Nagi offers as his only explanation, not moving an inch. 

“Don’t you want to swim with me?” Reo faux whines, a burst of giggles muddling his words.

“I’m fine watching.”

“You’re not even watching!”

Nagi just shrugs, his concentration unwavering.

He can picture the pout on Reo’s face, though.

“You know,” Reo says, with a little more care, soft and light. “I think you spend more time with that game than you do with me.”

The words are a little like a lit fuse, tossed into a can of gasoline. 

Without warning, the phone is tossed off to one side, the towel on his lap thrown off as Nagi essentially jumps into the water. 

“Nagi!” Reo gasps, caught off guard, the water droplets wetting his hair.

“What game?” Nagi asks. 

“Nagi—”

“What game.” Nagi reiterates. “When have I ever put you second?”

“I—I, what,” Reo manages to stutter out, his words mixing up and his face flushing a darker shade of rouge. “Huh?”

“You’re a menace.” Nagi says, faux annoyance tinging his words as holds Reo’s chin in his palm. “You’re lucky you’re Reo, otherwise, I’d fight back.”

“What if I want you to fight back?” Reo asks, tilting his head, in an attempt to regain his confidence. 

Fight back, huh?

Maybe Nagi will do just that.

Nagi takes a moment of pause, before relaxing his body to lounge next to Reo, letting go of his chin.

“You got me in the water.” Nagi says, laying his head down on the concrete next to Reo’s elbows. “Congrats, boss.”

The warm water loosened up his muscles, the feeling of flighty weightlessness ever present.

Reo was the best part, though, with his damp hair sticking to the skin of his neck, his eyes widened and his mouth slightly agape before he caught himself. He always was.

“You’re so weird.” Reo mumbles, his eyes half lidded. “So, so weird.”

“Hm.” Nagi agrees. “You’re weird too.”

“Not as weird as you.”

“At least I don’t go into hot springs at ten in the night.” Nagi rebukes.

“At least I don’t play on my phone when I have a nice onsen and my friend in front of me.” Reo says with a huff and a smile. 

Friend?

In all their years, Nagi’s never heard anyone call them friends. 

Though, Reo does have a point. With an onsen and a pretty Reo in front of him, how could he be on his phone?

“We’re partners, no?” Nagi asks, tilting his head slightly to brush against Reo’s bare elbows.

There’s a small beat of silence, before Reo lets out a small puff of laughter. 

“Yes.” He agrees, breathless. “We are.”

“What if,” Nagi says, and he instantly wants to backtrack. “Nevermind.”

“No,” Reo asks. “What is it?”

Nagi’s eyes drift, his focus on Reo’s face, his furrowed eyebrows and questioning eyes, the red painting the skin of shoulders and cheeks, the mist clouding his nude form.

They’ve been in various states of undress with each other before, hell, they’ve even showered together.

But, right now, it’s overwhelming. They’re raw, both exposed and hidden.

Nagi’s pretty sure he’s flushed too.

Reo’s demeanour shifts from confused to shy, something that’s exceedingly difficult to pull out of the Mikage heir.

But he isn’t just the Mikage heir. He’s Reo.

And that’s what makes Nagi go soft. 

He’s making Reo shy. That’s what’s electrifying him.

“Hey…” Nagi mumbles out, his eyes closing to free himself. “Don’t try to say I don’t care about you.”

“I wasn’t—” Reo immediately jumps in to say. “It was a joke.”

“Joke or not,” Nagi lifts his head, bringing his face closer to Reo’s, just shy of cradling his chin again. “It’s not true. You’re my biggest priority.”

“What about music?” Reo asks, moving so that he is facing Nagi, his lashes wet and his eyes glassy, whether from steam or tears. He’s still pretty, with plush, soft lips coated with red shine.  “You like your job, no?”

“I do.” Nagi says. “We’re going to win ourselves that Grammy, and top the charts.”

“So,” Reo whispers. “Would you choose music or me?”

There was only one actual answer to this question. 

It’s pretty obvious, if you knew Nagi. It honestly was a little insulting that Reo had to ask.

“They’re the same.” Nagi whispers back. Choosing Reo meant choosing music, and choosing music meant choosing Reo.

“I’ll have both.” Nagi says, finally cradling Reo’s chin properly, warming his hands from his burning skin, getting lost in sultry purple eyes. “I want both.”

“You want me?” Reo whispers, pushing his own head forward until their foreheads were touching, almost teasing.

But Nagi knew what Reo teasing felt like, and he knew when Reo used confidence as a mask.

“I get everything I want.” Nagi asserts, his eyes falling back down to his lips, to something he really wanted, and he takes joy in the little shudder Reo tries to suppress.

Nagi isn’t oblivious. He knows what their relationship looks like to outsiders.

It makes him a little more than happy.

Some nights, his mind drifts, drifts to what it would feel like to have Reo like he does now. To what it would feel like if he just went one step further, and took Reo’s lips like they were his.

He’d shut it down, force himself to stop before the fantasy could escalate, because there was still a boundary in their relationship that they couldn’t cross.

He wants to cross it. He wants to try taking the risk, wants to feel if Reo was even better than his fantasies.

“Can I?” Nagi asks, embarrassingly nervous.

It still makes Reo’s breath hitch, so that’s that.

”What a hassle.” Reo breathes out, before committing.

It knocks the air out of Nagi’s lungs, as Reo pulls him into a kiss himself, and it feels a little like his brain goes into overdrive.

Reo’s lips are every bit as soft as they look, Nagi thinks he short circuits a little at the taste of citrus.

He tries to move his mouth in tandem with Reo’s, chasing when Reo retreats, and tasting when he’s given the opportunity, careful to study his reaction.

Skin meets against skin, and they’re both probably breaking some ethical rule of kissing while naked in an onsen, but Nagi can’t bring himself to care, not when their lips slot together perfectly and Reo feels wonderful in his grasp, surrendering to each other.

For now, there exists only Reo, and the high of emotions he makes him feel.

The thrill of experiencing the highs with each other, and comforting each other when they come back down to earth, riding out the lows.

Huh.

Reo gasps into his mouth, something Nagi takes as a sign that he’s doing something right, since Reo’s hands wrap around his neck and pull him closer, a favour he’s more than willing to return.

His own hands find purchase on Reo’s waist, cautiously making sure not to hook onto exposed hips.

Nagi doesn’t know if it’s been hours until Reo pulls away, breathing in for air. He tries to dive in for more, before Reo’s hand pushes him back from his chest, firm.

“Not here.” Reo whispers into the space between them. “We shouldn’t be doing this here.”

“It’s late.” Nagi refutes, annoyed. “No one will care.”

“Is that all I’m worth?” Reo asks with a smug grin. “You don’t want to kiss me back in our room, where you can do anything you want?”

“Anything?” Nagi asks, his own mischief taking over.

“Of course that’s what you focus on.” Reo says with a huff. “Yes, anything.”

“Why?” Nagi asks, a small, imperceptible smile pulling at his own lips. 

Reo fixes him with an unimpressed look, one that isn’t any less attractive. 

“‘Cause I want you, Genius.” Reo says, blunt, yet the averted gaze betrays his embarrassment.

“Is that so?” Nagi teases. “What do you want me to do?”

“Write me lyrics.” Reo teases back. “And I’ll play guitar, and we’ll sing.”

“Ah.” Nagi says with a grimace.

“Don’t you want both?” Reo teases, bringing up Nagi’s past words. “What do you want to do?”

“I’ll make you sing.” Nagi says, shameless. “You make wonderful sounds.”

“Shut it.” Reo says, flicking his forehead. “Or, I’ll actually make you write our songs with me.”

“What’ll our song be about?” Nagi asks. 

“Mutual annoyances,” Reo says with a lilted tone. “Who will be there for each other when they crash and burn, and when reality gets too much to handle.”

“I like that.” Nagi mumbles.

“I hope Italy will too.” Reo says, his smile softening.

“But not tonight.” Nagi mumbles, letting his face drop onto Reo’s shoulder, kissing the skin of the crook of his neck.

“No,” Reo agrees with a content sigh. “Not tonight.”