-Levi POV-
Ray tapped his fingers on the table, watching me with an amused yet knowing expression. "You know, for someone with a reputation for being indifferent, you sure are going all out for him."
I scoffed, crossing my arms. "Tch. I don't do things half-assed."
Ray smirked. "Clearly. But I have to ask, what exactly is Charles to you?"
I exhaled, feeling the weight of the question settle in the air between us. What was Haruka to me? The answer was obvious. It had always been obvious.
"Are you seriously asking me that now? Haruka… he's someone I love," I said, my voice steady. "To put it simply, he's someone I want to spend my whole life with."
Ray's expression shifted, surprise flickering across his face before something softer replaced it. "Huh. I figured as much, but hearing you say it outright? That's something else."
I didn't respond, but I didn't look away either. I meant what I said. Every damn word.
Ray leaned back, arms crossed over his chest. "You know, I've known Charles for years, and I knew he was into guys. He never outright said it, but the way he carries himself, the way he interacts with people, I could tell. But when it comes to you…" He tilted his head, watching me closely. "It's different."
I felt my jaw tighten slightly. "What do you mean?"
Ray exhaled. "He may not show it, but the way he talks about you, it's not the same as how he talks about anyone else. I could see There's this… weight behind it. Like you matter more than he's willing to admit, even to himself. He's just not fully aware of his feelings. At least, not yet."
I stayed quiet, mulling over Ray's words. I had always known Haruka was selfless to a fault, but hearing this from someone else made it hit differently.
Ray sighed, running a hand through his blonde hair. "What I'm trying to say is… your love for him may not be one-sided anymore. He just needs time to understand it himself."
A faint smile tugged at my lips. "Then I'll wait. No matter how long it'll take, I'll wait. That's another promise I made."
Ray studied me again for a moment before letting out a soft laugh. "Damn. You really are serious about him."
"Of course I am," I said simply. "He's everything to me."
Ray's smirk faded slightly as his expression turned serious. "Then you better be prepared for what comes next, Levi. Haruka might not have enemies, but you knew very well that he attracts attention, the wrong kind of attention, I mean. People don't just admire him. They want him for his intelligence and his beauty mostly. They see him as something to own, and Claude is one of them."
The mention of Claude's name made me angry. I clenched my fist. I already knew that. I had seen the way people looked at Haruka, the way they tried to get close to him. Of course Claude is included. And I hate it.
"Then I'll make sure they never get the chance." I said, my voice low and firm.
Ray smirked, but there was something approving in his gaze. "Good. You're going to need that determination."
I stood up, adjusting my jacket. "I'll get the bracelet."
Ray gave me a nod. "Cool. Bring it to me once you do. I'll take care of the rest."
I turned to leave, but just as I reached the door, Ray spoke again.
"Levi Ackerman. Again, make sure to keep your promise."
I paused, clenching my fist in my pocket. Then, without turning back, I replied, "I always do."
And with that, I stepped out into the night, my mind set on the next step.
I walked towards my car, sliding my body into the driver's seat. My mind is still replaying the conversation with Ray. I had known Haruka was reckless when it came to protecting others, but hearing everything laid out like that only solidified one thing. He wasn't going to stop putting himself in danger. And if that was the case, then I had to make sure he wasn't alone in it.
I checked my watch.It wasn't too late yet. I could still find a jewellery store open.
A bracelet. Something simple, something he wouldn't question.
I walked through the quiet streets, my hands in my pockets as I scanned the upscale boutiques still illuminated despite the late hour. Most were closed, but then I spotted one with its lights still on—a high-end jewellery store known for its exclusivity.
The moment I stepped inside the store, I took off my cap and mask. The scent of polished wood and expensive cologne filled the space, and the staff, who had been casually conversing behind the counter, instantly froze. Their eyes widened, and whispers started before the manager stepped out.
"Mr. Ackerman," the manager stammered slightly, his voice laced with disbelief. "What an unexpected honour. How may we assist you, sir?"
I clicked my tongue, already regretting stepping into such a place. I should just go to my usual store tomorrow, I guess… I could feel their stares, curious, reverent, almost nervous. And I could see one of them taking out their phone.
"Tch. Don't make a big deal out of it," I muttered, my sharp gaze cutting through them. "And don't even think about posting about me coming here anywhere." I said that with a sharp voice.
The staff flinched slightly before nodding rapidly. "Of course, sir. Absolute discretion is guaranteed."
I clicked my tongue again. "Tch. It better be."
I walked toward the display cases, my eyes scanning over the rows of luxury bracelets. I wasn't here to waste time. I needed something subtle.
"Show me something simple," I said flatly. "Elegant, but not flashy."
The manager immediately gestured toward a glass case containing a collection of finely crafted bracelets. "May I suggest platinum or white gold? Something lightweight for daily wear?"
My gaze landed on a sleek platinum bracelet with a minimalist design. It had a single, small black gemstone embedded in it, nothing too extravagant but enough to make it unique.
"This one." I said, pointing at it.
"An excellent choice, sir. Would you like it engraved?" The manager asked me with a smile.
I hesitated for a second. Engraving? It wasn't necessary. But then again…
Before I could stop myself, I muttered, "Just the initials. H.C.A. and L.A."
If Haruka noticed, I wonder if he would want to wear it or not. But I didn't care. I'll make sure he wears it.
"Understood, sir. Please wait about 20 minutes." The manager said and then left to do the work.
After 20 minutes, the manager came out, holding the engraved bracelet.
"Here, the finishing, sir." He showed me the bracelet, and I scanned it once more.
"Hmm, looks good." I said that flatly.
The manager nodded, pulling out the velvet-lined box and putting the bracelet inside. "This piece is handcrafted and highly exclusive. It would make a perfect gift."
I ignored his attempt at conversation. "Just ring it up."
The transaction was completed swiftly, and as I took the small bag, I cast one last glance at the staff.
"Not a word about this." I reminded them coldly.
"Of course, sir. You have my word." The manager assured, bowing slightly.
Without another word, I turned and walked out into the night.
Now, I just need to get this to Ray and let him handle the rest.
As I headed back toward my car, I tightened my grip on the box.
Haruka had done so much for me, risking himself without hesitation. He probably didn't even expect anything in return. But this time, I wasn't going to let him handle things alone.
This time, I was going to be the one protecting him.
//SKIP//
The next weekend, before heading to Haruka's place, I made a stop at the hotel suite where Ray was staying.
I had only just found out that he had been living in the same building as Haruka all this time, watching over him 24/7.
When I arrived, Ray answered the door with a knowing smirk. "Took you long enough." He said, stepping aside to let me in.
I ignored him, my eyes scanning the suite. It was neat, almost too organised, with no personal belongings in sight. Exactly what I expected from an ex-MI6 agent.
"You've been staying here the whole time?" I asked, my voice flat.
Ray leaned against the counter, arms crossed. "Well, to be exact, after Haruka's incident with Claude. It's my job. Haruka's safety is my priority."
"Tch." I clicked my tongue. I wasn't sure how I felt about it. I wanted Haruka to be safe, but knowing Ray was always this close, always watching, it irritated me in a way I couldn't quite explain.
"Relax, Ackerman." Ray said, amusement in his tone. "I'm not getting in your way."
I scowled. "Just give me the bracelet."
He just laughed and then walked over to the small table and picked up a small velvet box.
"I made the necessary modifications. The tracker is secure, and the battery should last about a year before needing any replacement. I also added the pulse tracker, which could immediately detect if Charles suddenly fainted or was unconscious apart from sleeping." He handed it to me, but before I could turn to leave, his gaze flickered to the engraving on the inside of the bracelet.
"H.C.A. & L.A." He read out, a smirk tugging at his lips. "You had the initials engraved?" He looked at me knowingly. "Damn, Ackerman. That's pretty sentimental of you."
I shot him a cold look. "Tch. Mind your own business."
Ray let out a small laugh, shaking his head. "No need to get all defensive. Just didn't take you for the type to do something like this."
I ignored him, slipping the box into my coat pocket before turning towards the door. "I'll see you around."
Ray chuckled behind me. "Yeah, yeah. Good luck with your grand gesture."
I didn't dignify that with a response as I left his suite and made my way to Haruka's penthouse.
-Haruka's Place-
Using the card key Haruka had given me, I entered his penthouse without knocking. That's what I always do, by the way. The house was quiet, sunlight filtering through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting long shadows across the polished floors. I made my way towards the living room.
Haruka is sitting on the couch, completely unaware of my presence as he flips through a book. But the moment he sensed someone else in the room, he glanced up, and the moment he saw me, his brows furrowed slightly in surprise.
"Levi?" He said, closing the book. "I wasn't expecting you."
I walked over without a word.
"Well, I missed you. Where are the babies?" I asked him with a smile.
"You're ten minutes late. They're sleeping soundly in the room." He said that with a chuckle.
I pulled the velvet box from my pocket and placed it on the table. "Here."
Haruka eyed it warily. "What is it?"
"Open it," I said.
He hesitated, then slowly reached for the box, flipping it open. His gaze fell onto the platinum bracelet inside. Sleek, simple, elegant. His initials, H.C.A were engraved on one side, while mine, L.A on the other.
His expression was unreadable as he ran his fingers over the smooth metal. "Levi, this is…" He trailed off, frowning slightly. "Why are you giving me this?"
"Because I want you to have it." I leaned against the couch, arms crossed. "It suits you."
Haruka exhaled, closing the box gently. "I appreciate it, but I'm not really into things like this." His voice was careful, polite, but firm. "And besides… we're not a couple, Levi."
I expected that reaction.
"Yeah, I know." I held his gaze. "But that doesn't change anything."
He hesitated.
I sighed, sitting down beside him. "Look, Haruka. Just take it. Wear it. Always. Don't take it off."
Haruka looked at me, his lips pressing into a thin line. "You're being awfully persistent."
"Tch. Because I know you." I met his gaze, unwavering. "You don't think about yourself enough. You're always looking out for other people, but when it comes to yourself, you don't care. This is just something small, but I want you to have it."
He fell silent, his fingers brushing against the bracelet again.
"Besides," I added, smirking slightly. "It's already got your initials. It'd be a waste if you didn't wear it."
Haruka let out a soft, breathy laugh. "You really don't give up, do you?"
"Nope. And I wanted you to remember me always. So make sure you don't take it off." I looked at him with a gentle gaze, and he just smiled. A very faint one.
He studied the bracelet for a few more seconds before finally, carefully, slipping it onto his wrist. The cool metal rested against his skin perfectly, as if it belonged there. He turned his wrist slightly, watching how the light reflected off the platinum.
"...It's nice," he admitted, so quietly that I almost didn't catch it.
I smirked. "I knew you'd like it."
Haruka rolled his eyes, but I could tell he actually liked it. That was enough for me.
After a moment, he leaned back against the couch, stretching his arms slightly. "So, what's next?" He looked at me.
I pushed myself up. "Lunch."
He raised a brow. "You're cooking?"
I scoffed. "Like hell I'm doing it alone. You're helping, of course. It's your house after all."
Haruka Chuckled, standing up as well. "Fine. But if you mess up, you need to buy me tons of dessert later." He said that with a grin.
"Tch. You and your desserts." I clicked my tongue.
He let out a small chuckle again, a small, amused smile on his lips as he walked towards the kitchen. I followed after him, my eyes briefly flickering to the bracelet on his wrist.
At least now, I knew he had it on. And as long as he did, I could keep an eye on him.
Haruka moved to the kitchen with practiced ease, rolling up his sleeves as he started gathering ingredients. I leaned against the counter, watching him for a moment before stepping closer.
"So, what are we making?" I asked, and I could guess what his answer was.
"My special spaghetti," Haruka said, glancing at me briefly. "You love it, don't you?"
"Tch. It's decent." I muttered, but he saw right through me.
"You're such a terrible liar." He smirked.
I didn't deny it. His spaghetti was hands down one of the best things I'd ever tasted. Even the five-star restaurant couldn't compete.
Haruka sets the ingredients on the counter, moving with his usual precision. "Since I'm handling this, you can take care of dessert." He said that while peeling the garlic.
"What do you want?" I asked, raising my brow.
"Chocolate lava cake with vanilla ice cream." He said that with a grin.
I exhaled sharply, shaking my head. "You really do have a sweet tooth."
"And you don't?" He countered, giving me a knowing look.
I scoffed but didn't argue. Instead, I rolled up my own sleeves and got to work.
The kitchen was quiet except for the rhythmic sounds of chopping, boiling, and the occasional clatter of utensils. Haruka moved effortlessly, his focus entirely on perfecting the sauce while I prepared the cake batter.
"Try this." Haruka suddenly said, holding a spoonful of sauce toward me.
I leaned in slightly, tasting it straight from the spoon. The rich, perfectly balanced flavours hit instantly.
"...Damn." I muttered.
Haruka smirked. "Told you."
I clicked my tongue but didn't argue. He was better, and I knew it very well.
As he continued with his spaghetti, I focused on finishing the chocolate lava cakes, making sure the batter was just right.
Haruka glanced over, watching me plate the cakes once they were baked to perfection. "Hmm, not bad. I was right to ask you to handle the dessert." He admitted it.
"Obviously." I shot back, placing a scoop of vanilla ice cream on each cake.
Once everything was ready, we set the plates on the dining table. The aroma of Haruka's spaghetti filled the air, and the sight of the molten chocolate cakes waiting for later made the meal feel complete.
Haruka took a seat and picked up his fork. "Well then," he said, glancing at me with a rare, satisfied expression. "Bon appétit, Levi."
I smirked slightly, twirling some spaghetti onto my fork. "Yeah. Let's eat."
And for a while, everything felt… right.
Yes. Just spending the time on the weekend like this, with Haruka. Alone with him. That's all I need.
TO BE CONTINUED!!!