Warnings: There's a bit of swearing. A pretty much "implied" attempted NCS that absolutely doesn't get anywhere near detailed or graphic. Some 1X2 smooching and cuddling and suggestiveness (what would fan fic be without that?). Nasty Dorothy. Rotten Silvia. Evil Alex. Surprisingly NICE Relena.
Rating: T rating on ff.net
Thanks: My main beta/best friend Kaeru Shisho was 100 percent supportive.

The Wedding Date
by Snowdragonct

Heero stood by the ticket counter, impatiently looking at his watch. Quatre's sister was running late, and if she didn't show up in the next few minutes, he'd have to go without her or miss his flight.

He felt the first stirrings of panic, wondering once again how he'd let himself get suckered into this in the first place.

Oh, yes -- it had been Quatre's silver tongue, hadn't it? His blonde friend was entirely to blame for the hoards of butterflies currently taking up residence in his stomach.

When he'd gotten the invitation to Milliardo's wedding, his first inclination had been to decline it. After all, it meant a transatlantic flight and a weekend of being hounded by Mill's sister, Relena, who'd been fixated on him back in prep school, and pretty much ever since.

He still cursed the day, back in grade school, when he'd beaten up a bully who was picking on her. She'd promptly dubbed him her "knight in shining armor," with veritable stars shining in her eyes, and had spent most of the rest of their acquaintance trying to get him to sweep her off her feet.

He'd had his apology all prepared, with multiple excuses -- too busy at work, not enough vacation time left, and of course, his inherent fear of flying. He'd figured those were ample grounds for skipping the event, regardless of the fact that it was a headline-garnering event in the social world.

But then Quatre had dashed into his office, waving his own invitation and practically giggling in delight over the chance to stay at the Peacecraft Palace for the weekend. "Look who's getting married, Heero! Isn't it great?"

"Lovely."

"The wedding is in the chapel on the palace grounds, where --." Quatre had looked down at the leaflet enclosed in the invitation. "'-- over ten generations of Peacecrafts have been baptized, coronated, and of course married.'" His blue eyes had positively gleamed with anticipation. "Won't it be spectacular?"

"I'm sure it will," Heero had said dryly. "Take lots of pictures for me."

"Of course --. What? You're not coming?"

"No, Quatre, I'm not."

And he'd meant it, too. He'd fended off Quatre's insistence that he not only had plenty of vacation time left, but that he was weeks ahead on his projects. He'd even stood firm in the face of suggestions that he could take a tranquilizer to ease his anxiety over flying.

But the next day when he'd gotten a personal call from Milliardo, requesting him to be a groomsman, he hadn't been able to refuse. They'd been very close, back in the day, and the hint of pleading in his old comrade's voice was too much to resist.

Although, now he couldn't even remember the name of Mill's intended! Something exotic -- probably some rare Chinese flower -- Changfei, was it?

The details had flown from his head once he found himself standing in the airport, shifting from foot to foot, waiting for his wedding date to show up to accompany him. But the only thing that had arrived so far was the flock of butterflies taking up residence in his stomach.

In a moment of madness, while bemoaning his situation to his best friend, Quatre -- Heero had let the smooth-talking blonde convince him that showing up with a date was the perfect way to keep Relena at arm's length for the entire weekend.

Of course, Heero didn't have a date. He didn't even have a girlfriend. If he were completely honest, he didn't really have anything remotely resembling a social life. Aside from company functions, he kept to himself -- filling his days with work, and his evenings with visits to the gym, walks in the park, and the company of his friends and many a good book.

When he'd pointed that out to Quatre, the blonde had immediately dialed up one of his numerous sisters and asked if she'd like to attend the social event of the decade. She'd jumped on the opportunity like a starving wolf on a juicy steak.

It wouldn't be that bad, Heero assured himself. He'd met several of Quatre's sisters, and they were pleasant to be around. The one he'd been set up with was a career woman, according to Quatre -- ambitious and good-looking and totally uninterested in the distractions of dating -- much like Heero. The weekend arrangement would suit them both.

It would suit them -- if she showed up!

Heero looked again at his watch, mumbling a curse. There was no putting off check-in any longer, unless he went to the trouble and expense of changing to a later flight -- assuming they even had one. Transatlantic flights tended to be few and far between.

If Heero hadn't had to fly out on a Thursday, in order to be there for the pre-wedding preparations and rehearsal, he would've flown with Quatre and Trowa, who were coming on Saturday. He briefly considered trying to switch to that flight, and just skip the rehearsal stuff.

But then, deciding it wasn't worth the effort, he again approached the ticket agent.

"Miss --? The person who was supposed to meet me here seems to be late. I'm going to have to go ahead through security, or I'll miss my flight."

The clerk nodded sympathetically. "Would you like to leave the name, in case they show up?"

Heero winced, realizing he didn't know which sister it was -- Iria or Lara or something? "I'm -- not sure," he admitted. "It's a friend of a friend. I think that ticket is under the name Winner."

"I see. Well I'll be sure to rush them along, if they make it in time. Would that be okay?"

"Fine."

Grumbling under his breath, Heero headed for the security line, eager to get through the tedious process of being screened and allowed to the boarding area.

He saw no sign of the sister Quatre had described, even once he reached the gate and found the flight already beginning to board.

"Fuck." He dialed Quatre's cell number, fuming a bit.

"Quatre Winner --," came a slightly staticky voice.

"Winner -- your sister is a no show!" Heero accused, fidgeting in the line for the boarding gate.

"-- small problem -- stomach flu -- but took care of it --," came the broken response.

"Took care of it how?" demanded Heero.

"-- a friend recommended -- dating -- meet you there."

Heero rolled his eyes. It sounded like some friend of Quatre's sister was going to show up -- or someone that a friend had been dating? It was all too confusing to even sort out.

"Forget it!" he snapped. "I'd rather go alone!"

He snapped off his cell phone, as the flight attendant accepted his boarding pass. "Please remember, cell phones will need to be turned off before takeoff."

"I know," he growled back, taking the extra moment to shut it off right then, before he was tempted to call Quatre back and really give him a piece of his mind.

He made his way to his seat in coach, stowing his carry-on above and sliding over to the window seat. Not that he cared one way or the other, but since the seat next to him was going to remain empty, he thought he'd prefer to be away from the aisle. That way he wouldn't be bothered by flight attendants or other passengers.

He settled back comfortably, his hectic week catching up with him all at once, and turned his attention to the view outside the window.

It was a clear day, and the harbor was glittering under the sunlight. But Heero didn't find the sparkling waves the least bit reassuring. He hated to fly. Takeoffs and landings sent him nearly into a full-blown panic attack every time.

He'd been to psychiatrists for it, since his job required him to travel at regular intervals. Most had suggested valium, or other relaxants, which had worked; but he hated taking those medications, preferring to keep a clear head. Then one astute therapist had taught him meditation and breathing exercises, and he found that if he cleared his mind and practiced slow, steady breathing, he could usually manage without drugs.

Just as he was about to close his eyes and start counting breaths, someone suddenly stopped beside his seat, putting their luggage in the overhead rack and struggling to close the compartment.

He looked up in irritation, only to narrowly miss being smacked in the face by a long chestnut braid as the newcomer turned to close the opposite compartment as well.

Then a slim body dropped into the seat next to him, and a pair of glimmering indigo eyes met his. "Sorry I'm late," said someone who looked just a bit too pretty to be a man. Yet his voice was decidedly male.

Heero stared blankly, taking in the heart-shaped face dominated by large, vivid eyes and a slightly too-wide mouth set in a relaxed smile. "Excuse me?"

"-- would've been here sooner, but the call was really last-minute, and the traffic --," the man continued all in one breath.

"Do I know you?" Heero demanded, scowling now.

The apologetic rambling ended rather abruptly, and the fellow held out a hand. "Um -- no. I'm Duo Maxwell."

"That's nice," Heero replied coolly, not returning the gesture. "But I think you're in the wrong seat."

Duo looked at his boarding pass and then back up, shrugging slightly. "21B."

"It must be a mistake," Heero insisted, sure they couldn't have sold the unclaimed ticket on stand-by -- not at that late hour.

"Nope. This is the ticket that was reserved for me."

"It was reserved for a Miss Winner," Heero retorted. "And clearly, you are not her."

"Ah, no," Duo replied with another smile. "I kind of thought you would be."

"I -- what?"

Duo sighed and shook his head. "Look, all I know is I was told a ticket would be reserved under the name Winner. I was to check in and join someone for this flight."

Heero shook his head. "As I said before, there's been a mistake. Miss Winner was supposed to accompany me on this flight."

Duo blinked, looking confused. "Oh." He started to fumble for his cell phone, but the flight attendant came by and shook her head sternly.

"We're taxiing to the runway, sir. All cell phones must remain off."

"You don't understand," Heero cut in. "He's not supposed to be here."

She eyed him suspiciously. "What are you talking about?"

Duo caught Heero's eye and shook his head slightly. Then he turned back to the stewardess. "I was supposed to have the window seat, he meant," he said smoothly. "But it's okay. I'm fine on the aisle."

She studied them both for a long moment before wandering off to continue instructing others to buckle up and put away any personal items.

"Jesus," Duo sighed, glaring at Heero. "Did you want us to get tagged as terrorists? Sheesh. She looked like she was just about ready to scream for an air marshal."

"Well maybe she should have," Heero snarled back. "I have no idea who you are, or why you took Miss Winner's ticket, but I've a good mind to alert security that something very irregular has gone on."

"There's nothing irregular, except maybe your attitude," came the heated reply. "And I told you who I am -- it's you who hasn't bothered to tell me who the hell I'm playing escort for."

Heero gaped. "Escort?"

"Yes, escort."

The plane was already speeding down the runway, and Heero suddenly recalled his unease at flying. He squeezed his eyes shut, and held his breath as the force of lifting from the ground made him feel pressed down into this seat.

"-- okay?" he heard, catching the tail-end of what sounded like a fairly long sentence as the plane gained altitude and the tightness in his muscles eased.

He opened his eyes to see concerned indigo ones staring at him. "Huh?" he asked intelligently.

"I said, are you okay?"

"I just -- don't like takeoffs and landings," he admitted, feeling sweat beading on his forehead even as his racing pulse steadied.

"Here." Duo pulled an unopened bottle of water from the backpack he'd stuffed under his seat, uncapped it and pressed it into Heero's slightly unsteady hand. "Sip it slowly."

"Hn." Heero complied, too shaken at having been distracted from his usual pre-takeoff breathing exercises to protest. He drank several gulps, and then handed the bottle back, watching as Duo closed it and tucked it into one of the cup holders.

"There -- in case you need it later."

"Thanks." Heero had caught his breath, and finally turned a quizzical look on his seatmate. "Could you -- explain how you came to be here? Please?"

He caught a wary look from the indigo eyes. "If you'll at least tell me your name --."

Heero blinked, realizing he'd never returned the greeting when Duo had introduced himself. "Heero Yuy," he replied, letting a trace of apology slip into his voice.

Duo smiled again, apparently taking pity on him. "Well, Mister Yuy, I work for Ladies and Gents -- an escort service. Miss Winner called in a request for a companion for the weekend, to fly to Sanc, act as a wedding date, and fly back on Monday." He shrugged. "I'm it."

"You're -- a -- an -- escort?" Heero demanded, barely able to keep the shock from his voice. "As in a --."

Oh, God! Quatre's sister had lined up a prostitute to accompany him to Milliardo's wedding? A male prostitute?

Chapter Two

Duo frowned, leaning a bit closer. "-- a what?"

"A prostitute?" Heero hissed in a horrified undertone.

The braided man stiffened, his expression turning cold. "I am not a prostitute!" he snapped coldly. "I work for a reputable escort service. As a companion -- not a whore." He was fiddling with his seatbelt and looking down the aisle for the flight attendant. "If you expect something like that, whoever you are -- I don't care if we're in mid-air. I'm out of here!"

"No!" Heero blurted quickly, not wanting him to summon the suspicious woman back to glare at them some more. "That's not --! I don't expect that!"

As Duo stopped his squirming and turned to look at him again, Heero calmed down. "I don't expect a -- a -- you know. What I expected was for Miss Winner to fly with me to Sanc."

"She your girlfriend?" Duo asked, looking confused.

"No -- the sister of a friend," Heero explained. "She was going to pose as my girlfriend for the weekend."

Duo looked even more confused.

"Look -- I'm going to the wedding of a high-school friend. His sister hounded my every step back then, and I was afraid if I showed up alone, she'd start throwing herself at me again. So Quatre offered to have one of his sisters go with me -- to throw Relena a curve -- make her think I was taken." He let his gaze travel from the dawning comprehension on the man's face and down to his lap. "You can see why your arrival startled me."

A rueful smile touched the wide, attractive lips. "Yeah, I guess I can," Duo admitted. "Not into guys, huh?"

"Um, no." Heero was already thinking furiously, wondering if there was still time for Quatre to fix the mess his sister had caused. "And I can't think what possessed Winner's sister to call an escort service and have them send me out a male date."

"It's probably not her fault," Duo suggested. "When a woman calls for an escort, all they ask is for preferences in hair and eye color -- not the sex. It's generally assumed she wants a male date."

"But why didn't she come?" Then Heero recalled his abbreviated call to Quatre, and the words "stomach flu." "Oh shit."

Duo raised an eyebrow.

"I tried to call Quatre when she didn't show up, and all I got was something about the flu and her calling a friend to meet me. I told him to forget it, and I thought that was the end of it."

"Ah." Duo shifted in his seat and glanced around the plane, then looked back at Heero. "So -- what's plan B?"

"I don't know yet," Heero admitted. "We're in mid-air, on our way to Sanc. There's no changing that now. But when we get there, I'm sure you can find a return flight, so you don't have to cool your heels there all weekend."

"And who's gonna pay for that return flight?" Duo wondered. "I've got just enough money on me to take care of incidentals."

"Won't your agency spring for a plane ticket?"

Duo gave a wry snort. "Hardly. Sally's a miser."

"Well maybe I can contact Quatre and his sister will pony up the airfare -- since she's the one who caused this whole mix-up."

"What if she won't?"

"We'll -- cross that bridge when we come to it," Heero sighed. "But if worst comes to worst, we're both booked to fly back Monday morning. You could get a hotel for the weekend -- do some sight-seeing."

Duo nodded. "Never been to Sanc."

"You haven't?"

"Nope. Never been anywhere," Duo admitted. "I can't afford to travel. Still payin' off student loans." He shifted in his seat, stretching his legs to get comfortable.

"You can pay off student loans on escort pay?" Heero wondered.

"It's not my only job," Duo explained. "It's just a part-time gig I started back in college, and kept up for the extra income. I have a full-time job at Sweepers Salvage."

"They give you time off for the escort work?"

"Once in a while. Howard's pretty understanding. He'll let me work overtime for the next couple of weeks to make up the hours."

"Sounds like an exceptionally nice boss."

"Yeah, I'm lucky."

Heero resisted the urge to snort, wondering how working two jobs to scrounge a living could in any way seem lucky to the braided man.

"What's your story?" Duo asked. "I mean, aside from the 'trying to dodge a harpy' thing this weekend?"

"Relena's not a harpy," Heero said quickly. "She's just -- overzealous. She was hung up on me in prep school, and then tried to follow me to college, but couldn't get into mine -- so she went to the girl's school a few miles away. Called all the time and tried to get together on weekends."

"How'd you fend her off for four years?"

"I transferred mid-semester and didn't bother telling her."

"Ouch." Duo shook his head. "You don't pull punches, do ya?"

"Not often." Heero gave a shrug. "I'm in a harsh business, and it suits me. I like competition, and I like to win. There's little room for compassion or diplomacy in that."

"So why don't you just go to the wedding alone and tell Relena to back off?" came an innocent query.

Heero didn't know if the other man was being snide, or just honestly curious. He fixed him with a glare. "Apparently that's what I'll be doing, since I can't take you as my date."

"Well, you could," Duo shrugged. "Wouldn't be the first time I escorted a man somewhere."

Heero raised an eyebrow. "Seriously?"

"Yeah, sure." Duo gave him a challenging look. "You think straight guys are the only ones who ever use an escort service?"

"I frankly never gave it much thought," Heero told him. "Or any at all, truth be told."

"It's a big world, Heero. You oughta get out more," Duo chided.

"This from the man who's never traveled."

"Touche."

Heero gave a small, smug grin, and reached for his briefcase, intending to take out his laptop and do some office work.

Duo watched him lay the instrument across his lap and boot it up, indigo eyes curious. "So, exactly what do you do for work?"

"Financial risk analysis -- takeovers and mergers."

"Ah."

Heero kept his gaze locked on the screen of his computer as he entered a string of letters and numbers. "You have no idea what I mean, do you?"

"Not really. Nope."

"The company I work for assesses the viability of other companies who might be amenable to a sale, and then bids for --." Heero stopped and shook his head. "Never mind."

Duo's eyes narrowed. "What? You think I can't understand the big words?" he asked, his tone defensive.

"Actually, I figured I was probably boring you," Heero countered.

"Oh." Duo wiggled in his seat as if settling down deeper. "Honestly, you kinda were. But I was hoping it might help me nod off -- I can never seem to get to sleep in a moving vehicle."

Heero glanced aside, unsure of whether the braided man was joking or serious. But then Duo winked one big, indigo eye and then closed them both, relaxing against the headrest.

"Wake me when we get there."

Heero didn't reply. He merely gave a wry snort and went back to work, knowing the lengthy flight would pass quickly once he was immersed in his facts and figures.

It might have done so, if his unexpected guest hadn't been such a restless sleeper, squirming and wriggling to find a more comfortable position, and finally ending up leaning heavily against Heero's left shoulder.

The Japanese man tried once or twice to push the intruder back to his own side of the seat. But it proved futile. Invariably, Duo ended up shifting about until his head once again came to rest on Heero.

With a frustrated sigh, Heero gave up on work, shut down his computer, and decided to try catching a couple of hours of sleep himself, using the little pillow provided by the airline and leaning his own head against the window.

Not that he'd ever admit it, but the warmth of another body overlapping part of his was oddly comforting in the chilly plane. And it helped him relax and forget that he was in a metal tube hurtling through the air several miles above a vast expanse of ocean. For one of the first times ever, he actually nodded off during a flight.

Chapter Three

"Sir -- wake up sir. We'll be landing in less than an hour. If you need to use the facilities or would care for coffee or tea, now's the time."

Heero blinked awake to see a smiling stewardess leaning over him. He was mortified to realize that Duo's seat was empty and he was sprawled far enough into it to indicate he'd probably been lying back against the other man.

"Oh, thank you," he managed in a voice gravelly with disuse. "Did you say there's tea available?"

"Yes, sir. I'll be right back with a cup." The flight attendant pattered off, and a few seconds later Duo dropped back into the seat, wiping a damp paper towel over his face.

"G'morning," he said brightly. "Or, afternoon or whatever." Duo leaned into Heero's personal space to look out the window. "What time will it be when we land in Sanc?"

"It will be almost noon. They are several hours ahead of us in time zones."

"So -- what's the plan, anyway?"

"We'll book you on the first available flight back home," Heero replied. "There's usually only a small fee for changing the time of a flight, and I'm certain Quatre's sister will square it away with your boss."

The stewardess came back with Heero's tea, and a cup of coffee Duo must have requested before making his trip to the washroom.

"Sure you don't want me to tag along to the wedding?" Duo asked between sips of coffee.

"Quite." Heero couldn't even imagine the level of embarrassment he'd have to endure to pretend to be gay for an entire weekend. It just wasn't worth it.

"I'm pretty good company," Duo added.

"No thanks."

"She already paid for my time --."

Heero glared. "I said no."

Duo subsided, apparently sulking for the next ten or fifteen minutes as they finished their drinks and the stewardess came by to gather up the cups and napkins. But when she threw in a reminder to have their possessions stowed away and the seat backs in the upright position, Heero recalled the impending landing, and felt an all-too-familiar tightness in his throat.

He immediately leaned his head forward against the back of the seat in front of him, trying to steady his breathing and clear his head.

"You okay?"

Heero shook his head, too rattled to lie.

"That's right," came a self-deprecating voice. "You said you don't like landings." A warm hand settled on his shoulder, pushing him back into his seat. "Just close your eyes, why don't you, and concentrate on my voice, hm? I'll talk ya right through it."

"How --?"

"Trust me," Duo said soothingly, his voice dropping to a deep, calming tone. "I spent a summer working at a kids' camp. I am the master of distraction."

"I doubt you can --."

"Shh! Don't argue with me."

One of Duo's hands slipped around the back of Heero's neck, massaging it firmly, fingers threading up into the dark, unruly hair and stroking his scalp as well.

"Just focus on your breathing. In and hold it. Then out again --."

Heero let himself be talked down, gradually steadying his heart rate and breathing.

"An' buckle up your seatbelt while we're at it," Duo threw in, maintaining a steady neck massage that drew Heero's attention away from the change in the engine's pitch.

Heero automatically fumbled with his lap belt and drew it taut, then resumed clearing his mind and letting the comforting stroking on the back of his head lull him into a more relaxed state.

He was aware of their descent, feeling the change in angle, as well as the increased roar of the engines, but he was too busy wondering how Duo knew exactly where to press and massage his tight neck muscles to relieve the tension so well, to worry much about it.

"How'd you learn this --?" he murmured, his attention more on Duo than on what was going on around them.

"My friend Hilde. She's a massage therapist. Great at finding knots in your muscles and working them out."

"I'll bet," Heero mused. "You -- seem to have some talent yourself --."

"Why thank you, Mister Yuy," Duo replied with a chuckle. "Glad to be of some small service."

Then the wheels touched down, and the plane began to decelerate sharply. But Heero simply gripped the armrests and focused on the comforting hand stroking his neck. It really did feel nice -- and amazingly soothing.

"Guess what?" Duo asked, leaning in so his warm breath ghosted across Heero's cheek. "We're on solid land now. You can relax for good."

And just like that, Heero did, sitting up and blinking, even as the hand slid away from his neck and he keenly felt the loss of its warmth. "Thank you," he said with a genuine smile, turning a grateful look to the braided man beside him.

"Did it help?" Duo asked, a teasing glimmer in his dark eyes.

"Very much," Heero admitted.

"You've really got issues with flying, don't you?"

"As I said, just the takeoffs and landings. Being in the air doesn't cause me nearly as much stress -- though I admit, I dislike placing my life in the hands of some pilot whose qualifications I know nothing about."

"Ah -- control freak," Duo said without accusation.

"No -- I just --."

"-- don't like putting your life in someone else's hands. That's being a control freak," Duo said with a shrug.

"It is not!"

All he got in reply was a skeptical snort, but he let it drop, because they were taxiing to the terminal and it was time to start gathering up their belongings and preparing to disembark the plane. If all went well, he'd be rid of his vexing companion in less than an hour's time.

Of course, all did not go well.

"What do you mean there are no flights out tonight?" Heero demanded of the ticket agent, after she delivered the bad news.

"Not 'no flights,'" she amended. "No seats. I'm telling you, sir, with the royal wedding this weekend, the airlines have cut back on departures and are concentrating on the incoming trips. Many of the planes are going to wait the weekend, for the expected slew of departures on Monday."

"But he needs to get back to the States tonight!" Heero insisted, gesturing to Duo, who was half-turned away, looking curiously at their surroundings.

"I'm sorry, sir. There are simply no seats available until Monday -- and that's only because you've got a return ticket. If you were trying to book a flight, you'd probably have to wait until Tuesday."

"This is ridiculous. Is there no way to ask someone to exchange tickets or something?"

Duo caught Heero's arm, tugging him away from the counter. "Give it up, man. She's not gonna budge."

"But you can't stay here --!"

"Doesn't look like I've got a choice," Duo shrugged, looking aside at Heero as they made their way to a less congested area. "Don't sweat it. If you can loan me a few bucks for a hotel room, I can hang out there until it's time to fly home."

Heero sighed, realizing there wasn't any other option. "I guess I can spare it," he admitted. "At least until I take it out of Quatre's hide for getting me into this mess."

Duo chuckled, heading for an information kiosk that listed car rentals, taxi service, and hotel accommodations.

And things promptly went from bad to worse.

"What do you mean, there are no hotel rooms available?" Heero demanded, when the frazzled-looking attendant delivered the very bad news.

"All booked up," she said apologetically. "There's not a vacant room in any hotel in the city."

"How do you know that?"

She gestured to her computer screen. "We've got the latest data in our system, and there are just no free rooms -- anywhere."

Heero rubbed his forehead, feeling a stress headache originating behind his eyes. "This is ridiculous!"

Duo tugged at his arm. "C'mon, Yuy. Give the girl some room," he suggested. "We can grab a cup of coffee and plan our next move."

"No, we can't!" Heero argued, even as he allowed Duo to lead him away. "Relena was sending a limo to pick me up. He's probably sitting outside right now, waiting for me to show."

"Well, let's go then."

"What?"

Duo stopped, turning to face him. "Obviously, I'm gonna have to tag along with you this weekend. There's no other choice."

"You can't!" Heero said in horror.

"Why not? Obviously, you've got a place to stay. I can bunk with you."

"No, you can't."

"Again -- why not?" Duo asked. "I'm not talking about going to the wedding. I just need a room to hang out in."

"Yes, but the room I'm staying in for the weekend is at the groom's mansion," Heero explained. "Relena's brother?"

"Oh."

"I'd be perfectly fine with you sharing it, if I were staying at a motel. But this is different." Heero ran a hand back through his hair, rendering it even messier than before. "Quatre's sister was going as my date, and no one would have thought a thing about us sharing a room. We'd planned to have one of us use the couch and the other the bed, which was fine. But you can see there's no way that would work with you. Obviously, I can't claim you're my girlfriend --."

Duo eyed him speculatively. "No, but you could claim I was your boyfriend --."

Chapter Four

"I'm not gay!" Heero said sharply.

Duo raised his hands in a placating gesture. "Not sayin' you are, man! But Relena doesn't know that, does she?" A slight frown creased his forehead. "I mean, ya didn't sleep with her back in high school, did ya?"

"No!" Heero blurted in horror. "Gods, no!"

"Then what's the big deal?" Duo asked with a shrug. "We show up together. You tell her you never liked her because you were into guys all along. And she gives up on you now and forever." He smiled sweetly. "Sounds to me like a plan!"

"No!"

"Why not?"

"Because I don't want everyone I knew back here in Sanc thinking I'm gay."

"Oh." Duo's expression changed just fractionally, but by now Heero knew him well enough to see the shift.

"Not that there's anything wrong with being gay," he added quickly. "I've got nothing against gay people."

Duo nodded, but there was a chilly gleam in the dark eyes. "That's real big of you," he drawled rather snidely.

"I didn't mean it like that."

"How did you mean it?"

"I just meant -- that if I were gay, it'd be fine. But I don't want to mislead everyone --."

"Oh -- you mean like pretending you have a steady girlfriend when you don't?" Duo shot back.

"That's not the same. It's not outside the realm of possibility that I could have a steady girlfriend," Heero pointed out.

"Then why don't you?"

Heero paused, taken aback by the blunt question. "I -- I don't know. I -- my job doesn't allow much time for dating -- and I just haven't found the right girl, I guess."

"I see." Duo's lids dropped to half-mast, and he looked up from under his lashes. "You don't think it might be that you just haven't found the right guy?"

"No!"

"Did you ever even try?"

"No!" Heero resisted the urge to punch a wall.

"Then how do you know it's outside the realm of possibility that maybe you're gay?"

"Jesus Christ, I don't know why we're even having this conversation," Heero snarled.

"Because it's necessary," Duo pointed out. "I need a place to stay for the weekend, and going with you seems to be the only option, unless I want to sleep on a bench in an airport."

"We can find you something else."

"You heard the girl at the information kiosk; every hotel in the city is booked up full."

"Then we'll look outside the city. There's no way in Hell I can pretend to be with you -- I couldn't fool anyone."

Duo threw his hands up in the air. "Am I that fuckin' repulsive?" he demanded of the world at large. "I mean, would it just kill you to share a fuckin' room with me?"

"Lower your voice," Heero warned, darting a look around at the busy terminal.

"You bring me all the way to Sanc and then wanna just dump me in an airport?" Duo persisted, waving his arms for effect.

Now they were drawing attention and stares from passersby.

Heero grabbed one of Duo's arms, pulling him towards a quieter area. "Would you please quiet down? Damn it, Duo -- this wasn't my idea! Why can't you understand how awkward it'd be for me?"

"What about me?" Duo demanded.

"What about you?"

"Y'think I enjoy the idea of posing as your boyfriend?"

"But you're gay!"

"When did I say that?" Duo countered. "I was supposed to be escorting a woman, Yuy."

Heero paused, wondering if he'd misread the other man all along. "You're not gay?"

"I didn't say that, either," Duo pointed out. "And the point is, if you can't tell for sure, what makes you think anyone else could? About me or you. I'm tellin' ya, it's the perfect solution."

"Pretending to be gay is not an option. I told you, I couldn't pull it off."

"Why not? Are you that bad an actor?"

Heero gave him a narrow look. "Don't you think folks would find it strange that my 'lover' and I don't kiss or hold hands in public?"

Duo reached out and caught Heero's hand in his, smiling cheekily. "Like this? How hard is holding hands?"

Blue eyes narrowed into slits. "And the kissing? Seriously, Duo, what serious couple never kisses in front of anyone?"

"So kiss me. I won't slug ya," Duo offered.

Heero grimaced.

"So you do find me repulsive!"

"No!" Heero growled in his throat. "Stop twisting my words around. It's not that I find you, personally, repulsive. It's the thought of kissing a -- a guy."

"Don't knock it unless you've tried it."

Heero froze, looking at the challenging gleam in the indigo eyes.

"One kiss," Duo said quietly, in all seriousness. "If you wanna puke afterwards, I'll believe we can't pull off the act. But if you don't -- you admit maybe there is a reason you haven't found the right girl yet."

"I'm not going to --."

"One kiss. And I spend the weekend here at the airport if you lose your lunch."

Heero wanted to snarl in frustration; but then, realizing he had a chance to be rid of the aggravating escort for good, he nodded.

Duo grinned in triumph, edging closer. "Right here, Yuy? Or d'you want some place more private?"

Heero glanced around at the thinning crowd. "How about the men's room? And make it quick; I've got a limo to catch."

"Like I've never heard that line before --," came an amused response.

Duo led the way into the nearest lavatory, glancing around to be sure they were alone. Then he turned a cheeky smirk to Heero. "Alone at last," he teased, running a finger lightly down the front of Heero's shirt.

"Let's just get this over with." Heero stepped in and without further preamble, pressed his lips to Duo's.

But the instant he did, Duo's hand snaked up around his neck, fingers curling deliciously into the unruly hair at the nape and sliding caressingly upwards. At the same time, the lips under his parted, allowing Heero to deepen the kiss -- although he'd have sworn he had no such intentions at the onset.

Jesus -- did all escorts learn to kiss like this?

Heero found that he'd forgotten the gender of the person in his arms, sliding one around a slender waist even as his tongue explored the hot, eager mouth under his. It wasn't until a soft moan escaped Duo's throat and he felt a hard groin press against his own arousal that sanity reasserted itself and Heero pulled back sharply, gasping for breath and drawing the back of a hand across his mouth.

"Fuck!" he blurted, horrified at how much he'd enjoyed the kiss.

Duo was standing with eyes half-closed, looking a little shell-shocked himself.

After a moment or two, the escort straightened, turning his back to Heero and turning on the water in the sink, reaching to splash some on his face.

"You're right," he said in a strangely subdued voice as he reached for a paper towel. "There's no way we could pull off the act."

"What do you mean?"

Duo glared up into the mirror, droplets of water still trickling down his face. "I mean, you win!" he snapped. "I'll figure out somewhere to stay. You go enjoy your goddamned wedding and make sure you meet me here Monday for our flight back to the States." He pushed away from the sink, wiping his face and tossing the paper towel into the trash.

"Duo --."

He was almost to the door, but stopped at the stricken sound of Heero's voice. "What?" he asked without turning around.

"It wasn't -- nauseating," Heero admitted, shoving his hands into his pockets to hide their unsteadiness.

"Maybe not to you," came a sarcastic drawl. "See ya Monday, Yuy."

Heero stood staring at the mirror for a full minute after he heard the door open and close. Then he followed Duo's example, splashing cold water on his face to clear his head, before heading out the door.

Chapter Five

Heero was halfway to the pickup area, when he glimpsed Duo talking to the clerk at the car rental booth. And almost of their own volition, his feet carried him in that direction.

"-- has to be some kind of car available. Just a sub-compact, or something," Duo was pleading.

"Sorry -- but between the convention and the Peacecraft wedding -- we're completely wiped out."

Duo sighed, turning away and coming face to face with Heero.

Heero picked up the small carry on bag Duo had set down, and started walking towards the door.

"Yuy!" Duo ran to catch up, tugging at his luggage. "C'mon, Heero. I can manage. I told ya. I'll fend for myself. It's only a coupla days."

Heero stopped and turned to look him squarely in the eyes. "I'm not going to leave my date to fend for himself in Sanc -- or sleep on an airport bench. Not when there's a perfectly good room waiting for us at the palace."

Duo grimaced slightly, not quite meeting his gaze. "Not a good idea, Yuy," he cautioned. "I mighta played around before and not come right out an' said it, but yeah, I'm gay. I don't think you wanna share a room with me for a whole weekend."

"I'm not talking about sharing a bed," Heero pointed out. "I'm sure there'll be a couch or futon available." He gave a hopeful, if weak, smile. "We can flip a coin for the bed."

"And have everyone thinking you're gay?"

Heero shrugged. "First off, I'll probably never see most of these people again. Secondly, you were right that it would discourage Relena for good. And thirdly, I'm not so sure I'm not anymore."

Duo's eyes widened, and then narrowed warily. "You think you can experiment on me -- is that it? Try a guy on for size?"

"No!" Heero asserted. "You told me you're not a prostitute. Was that not true?"

"It was true," Duo insisted. "But --."

"Just because I didn't find that kiss objectionable doesn't mean I'm going to try anything. But it convinced me that it would be no more of a lie to let Relena think I might be gay than it'd be to let her think I had a steady girlfriend -- since both are theoretically possible." Heero tried his most persuasive smile, and saw Duo's expression soften.

"Damn it, 'Ro --."

"Please."

Duo's shoulders slumped and he sighed deeply. "Fine," he conceded. "I know I'm gonna kick myself later, but -- fine."

Heero gave a satisfied nod, and resumed his walk towards the exit of the airport.

Outside by the curb, there was a long, elegant limo, and a man holding a sign that said "Yuy," so they headed his way.

"Pargan?" Heero said in amazement. "Are you still driving for the Peacecrafts?"

The elderly man smiled and gave a small bow. "Of course. I'm still Miss Relena's personal valet, as I have been since she was a child."

"It's good to see you again," Heero said with a smile.

"You as well, young sir. And may I ask who your guest is?"

"Duo Maxwell," the braided man spoke up, stepping closer and holding out a hand, which Pargan shook. "Pleased to meet you."

"Likewise," replied the valet, only a quick flicker of a glance between the two men betraying his curiosity. He held out a hand towards Heero. "May I take your bags, sir?"

Heero shook his head, still smiling. "Just pop the trunk open and I'll put them in."

"But sir --."

"I know it's your job," Heero acknowledged. "And should anyone ask, I'll certainly say you wrestled the bags away from me and did it yourself. But I was taught to respect my elders, and if that means I'd rather lift my own suitcase into the trunk to spare you, well then that's what I'll do."

The grey-haired man sighed and nodded. "Very well, young sir." He opened the trunk, and let Heero stow his and Duo's bags inside, and then went around to open a back door for the two.

They slid inside and Pargan closed the door and took his place as driver, pulling smoothly away from the curb and onto the road.

"That was nice," Duo spoke up, his calculating gaze not having left Heero since they got into the limo.

"What was?"

"What you did for that old man." Duo gave a sort of bemused smile. "I was gonna offer, myself, but you beat me to it."

"He's nearly seventy," Heero said with a shrug. "He doesn't need to be manhandling suitcases at that age. He frowned slightly. "Relena should know better. She should have sent someone along to help."

"So tell her that," Duo suggested. "Maybe she's known him so long, it hasn't occurred to her that he's not the same capable valet who took care of her as a kid."

"You have a point," Heero conceded, looking a bit surprised. He turned a more studious look towards his companion. "Very perceptive of you."

Duo smirked a raised an eyebrow teasingly. "Being perceptive is part of my job. Have to be able to read people and respond, or I'd be a lousy excuse for an escort."

"Ah." Heero looked out the window for a moment, and then back at Duo. "So are you 'reading' me?"

"Trying," Duo conceded. "But you're -- not easy to 'get.' I mean, back on the plane, those first couple of minutes, I'd have thought you didn't have any sense of humor at all. But you just teased and joked with that old man like you were buddies, instead of a friend of his employer."

"I've known him a long time."

"Uh-huh." Duo cocked his head, looking speculative. "So, you only loosen up around people you've known a long time." He gave a little shake of his head. "I've got my work cut out for me."

Heero scowled at that. "No, you don't," he said firmly. "I'll make this simple for you. You don't need to entertain me, or charm me, or be 'good company.' You merely have to be polite to Relena and family, and accompany me to a few social interactions and the wedding. Other than that, you can enjoy the luxuries at the palace -- maybe stroll in the gardens, or avail yourself of the gaming room."

Duo blinked a few times. "There you go saying 'palace' again. Exactly where are we staying?"

Heero blinked back. "Why -- the palace belonging to the royal family of Sanc, of course," he said, as if Duo should have known. "Relena is a princess, and her brother, the one who's getting married, is Prince Milliardo Peacecraft."

Duo's jaw dropped. "You're shitting me!" he blurted in shock.

Heero scowled more deeply than before. "No, I'm not. And I hope you can refrain from language like that around the royal family."

"Royal family --," Duo echoed in disbelief. "What the f--." He caught himself sharply. "What have I gotten myself into?"

"I thought you realized when I told you Relena's name --. Don't you read the social papers at all? I thought you were an escort -- and supposed to be able to attend fancy society events."

"I am! But this is Sanc we're talking about. And since I don't generally go out of the country for work -- no, I wouldn't know about social news on another continent!"

Heero rolled his eyes. "Great. Will I have to show you which fork to use at dinner?"

Duo glared back, his indigo eyes turning stony. "No you will not," he said flatly. "I was trained in proper etiquette, Yuy."

Heero gave a skeptical snort. "You haven't shown me much indication of that yet. You're glib, cocky and irreverent, as far as I can tell. And that will not go over well in royal company."

"I'll have you know, Sally sent me to Royal's Academy," Duo snapped back. "It's the best escort training available. I know how to address kings and queens, which side to stand on, in what order to acknowledge lords and ladies! Don't worry about my ability to act classy around high society types."

Fortunately, Heero chose to back off, realizing he'd insulted Duo a bit more than necessary. "I won't worry about it," he said in a dismissive tone. "I plan to minimize our contact with others at the palace anyway."

"Fine." Duo looked outside at the passing landscape for a moment, and then back at his companion. "Exactly how much contact do you expect us to have?"

"What?" Heero asked sharply, misunderstanding.

Duo caught on at once, and smirked. "With other people?" he clarified. "I assume since we're arriving on a Thursday afternoon that there are pre-wedding activities. How many of them involve us?"

Heero sighed. "Tonight I expect to have to have dinner with Relena, Milliardo, and other members of the wedding party --. Then tomorrow --."

"Wait! Wedding party?" Duo demanded. "You're in the wedding party?"

"Mill asked me to be a groomsman," admitted the Japanese man.

Duo's eyes narrowed. "So you'll be paired off with some chick for the bulk of the wedding and reception, while I stand around trying to look like I belong, eh?"

"I -- hadn't thought of that," Heero mused. "I suppose I'll be occupied during the ceremony and picture taking."

"Yes, and at the reception, you'll be sitting at the main table, while I'm hanging around with Aunt Bertha and Uncle Marvin, or something."

Heero found himself fighting a smirk. "Don't worry. I'm sure that since I accepted the invitation for two, they'll put my guest with my friends, Quatre and Trowa."

"Quatre --. You mentioned him on the plane."

"Yes. He'll be flying out Saturday, to attend the wedding on Sunday. I had to come early because of being in the wedding party."

Duo shook his head. "Great. You know that means we'll have to do dinner tonight, you'll need to be fitted for your groomsman's suit tomorrow, and probably attend some sort of bachelor party tomorrow night, and then on Saturday they'll be a rehearsal and a rehearsal dinner."

Heero's eyes widened. "All that?"

"Yes, all that," Duo scoffed. "And most of it probably will not require my attendance."

"As I said, you can enjoy the palace grounds."

"I'm not going to go wandering around the Peacecraft Palace by myself," Duo grumbled.

"I'll ask Relena to arrange company for you, if you like."

"No!" Duo squirmed on the plush seat of the limo. "This is just way more complicated than a typical escort gig." He fixed a rather timid gaze on his companion. "I need to know more about you and Relena and Prince what's his name."

"Milliardo."

"Yeah, whatever." Duo frowned at Heero. "How d'you know these people?"

"As I told you back on the plane, I went to school with them. I'm originally from Sanc."

"And you went to school with princes and princesses?"

"Obviously."

Duo rubbed the bridge of his nose restlessly. "Geeze, I dunno how I let Sally talk me into this gig…"

Heero raised an eyebrow. "Talk you into it --? I thought you worked for her."

"Yes, but like I said, I don't usually do any traveling for the job. She knows Howard can't spare me too much of the time. This was a favor I was doing for her --." He scowled slightly. "Last time I let myself get suckered like that."

Heero couldn't help but smile at his chagrined tone. "Don't knock it," he suggested. "You'll have the finest of accommodations, lavish meals, and if I'm not mistaken, there's a Jacuzzi in every room."

Duo perked up appreciably. "No shit? A Jacuzzi?"

"Yes, and if you can keep the word 'shit' out of your vocabulary for an entire evening, I promise to let you have dibs on it," Heero sighed.

"Deal!" Duo said enthusiastically. He rubbed his hands briskly together. "Now -- how 'bout we figure out our cover story for how we met --?"

Chapter Six

They arrived at the Peacecraft estate long before they were able to agree on a plan, and Heero resigned himself to "winging it," and hoping no one asked any personal questions. He was quite sure he'd have no idea what Duo's favorite food or color was, though the braided man had pried both out of him.

When they pulled up to the stone walkway, Heero climbed out of the limo first, and extended a hand for Duo, who played it up perfectly, grasping the proffered hand and stepping out beside him.

"Heero!" came a squeal of delight, and a petite blond woman came running down the walkway to throw herself into his arms. "You came!"

He grimaced, trying to disentangle himself, and finally succeeded in pushing Relena back to arm's length. "Obviously," he drawled rather snidely. "You wouldn't have sent the limo to the airport otherwise."

"Was your flight okay? And the limo ride -- was it satisfactory?"

"Yes and yes," Heero told her impatiently.

But Duo chose that moment to interrupt, politely tapping Relena on the shoulder, and giving a gracious bow. "Princess Relena? I don't believe we've met." He held out a hand. "Duo Maxwell. I'm Heero's date."

Relena's eyes went wide. "D-date?"

Duo nodded.

"B-but, you -- you're m-male!"

A patient smile settled on the full lips. "Yes, I am. Did you not know Heero's gay? I'd think you'd have figured it out when he didn't date a knockout like you back in high school."

She darted a glance back and forth between them. "He -- told you about me?"

"Well, of course. You're the 'lovely blonde princess' who had a bit of a crush on him back then, and if he'd been into girls, he'd have snapped you up in a heartbeat."

Heero dared a vicious glare at Duo, who he felt was laying it on far too thick. "Duo, let's not bore Relena with statements of the obvious. 'Lena? Could you have someone show us to our room?"

"Why -- of course --." She still had a befuddled look on her face as she gestured the butler to escort her guests to their room.

When they arrived at their designated room and the butler showed them in, Duo whistled softly between his teeth. "Whoa -- nice digs! And look -- we even have our own balcony!"

He walked over and plopped down on the edge of the big, canopied bed, bouncing experimentally. "Plush," he concluded, winking slyly at Heero as he showed the butler where to put down their bags.

It wasn't until the attendant was gone that Heero turned a glare towards his companion. "You don't need to play it up quite so much, Duo," he said curtly. "Simply accompanying me to the wedding is more than sufficient."

Duo flopped back onto the bed, staring up at the ceiling. "Just goes to show you know nothing about an escort service," he pointed out. "I'm supposed to make you look good -- be charming and sociable and well-mannered enough to impress whoever you're trying to impress by hiring a professional escort."

"I didn't hire you," Heero reminded him, putting his suitcase on the other side of the bed and taking out his suit so he could hang it up and give the wrinkles time to straighten.

"Yes, but someone did," Duo reminded him. "And when she called our service, she was trying to provide the best possible date for you to take to this shindig."

"The best possible date wouldn't make suggestive comments in front of the hired help," came the curt retort. "He'd show some restraint and decorum."

"People are gonna assume we're sleeping together no matter how I act," Duo noted, wriggling into a more comfortable position on the thick comforter. "May as well give 'em a bit of a show."

"No." Heero walked over so that he was standing towering over the braided man. "From now on, you just stand beside me and look nice. Got it?"

Duo blinked up at him. "I can't even talk?" he demanded.

"You have to talk," Heero admitted. "Obviously, if someone addresses you, you'll need to answer. But keep it short and sweet and refrain from making references to our sleeping arrangements. Is that clear?"

"Crystal." Duo scowled up at him. "Speaking of which -- who gets the couch and who gets the bed? We gonna flip for it?"

Heero frowned back. "No. Since you aren't really here of your own free will, I'll take the couch. It's the least I can do -- as long as you refrain from embarrassing me any further."

"Embarrassing you?" Duo demanded. "How in Hell have I embarrassed you?"

"Commenting on the bed in front of the butler," Heero replied. "Telling Relena I'd have dated her back in high school if I weren't gay --."

"Well, you probably would have."

"No, I wouldn't. She's pushy, annoying, clingy, and superficial. I didn't want anything to do with her then, nor do I now, regardless of my sexual orientation."

Duo eyed him quizzically. "You seriously think you're gay?"

"I told you -- I'm -- not sure any more," Heero said grudgingly. "I mean -- I am straight. I just --."

"-- have doubts?"

Heero scowled, not liking the turn of the conversation. "I don't have doubts about my sexuality," he asserted. "But -- as I said, I didn't hate that kiss as much as I should have."

"Wanna try it again?" Duo teased, his lips curving in a sensuous smirk.

"No!" Heero turned sharply away, throwing his hands up in surrender. "Just drop it, Maxwell. Be satisfied that we can pull off the 'couples' act for a weekend, thereby giving you a place to sleep besides the airport lounge -- and understand that once this is over, we'll have no further reason to debate my sexuality at all!"

"Gotcha," Duo sighed, nestling deeper into the blankets. "Have I got time for a little nap? I hardly slept on the flight over here --."

"Hardly slept --?" Heero scoffed. "You snored in my ear for hours!"

"Off and on," Duo conceded. "But I kept waking up when someone was drooling all over my shoulder --."

Heero felt a guilty blush creep up his cheeks, recalling waking up mostly on Duo's side of the seat.

"Fine. Go ahead. I'm going to take a shower and maybe head downstairs and deal with the fallout from our arrival," Heero told him. "Perhaps without you there, I can come up with a plausible enough story of our meeting to fool Relena -- and Milliardo if I'm really, really lucky."

"I still say we tell 'em we met on the internet. It's reasonable."

"Except that anyone who knows me knows I'd never stoop to dating via the internet --."

"Well la de da for you," muttered the brunette. "Aren't you just too good for the rest of the world?"

"I have standards."

"Mm-hm," came a drowsy response, as Duo settled down for his nap. "G'd fer you." He was snoring before Heero had finished laying out clean clothes and was headed for the bathroom.

The dark-haired man couldn't help a rueful smirk as he saw that there was, indeed, a Jacuzzi in one corner of the lavish bathroom. And while he limited himself to a quick, invigorating shower, he couldn't restrain a wistful glance at the tub, thinking how nice a hot soak would feel to his travel-weary muscles.

Duo would probably use it when he woke up. At least, everything Heero knew of him suggested he would. And Heero prided himself on being a quick judge of character. In his business of financial negotiations, he had to have an innate ability to size up his opponents and seek out their weaknesses.

Why, then, was it so difficult to unravel the mystery of Duo Maxwell?

The man was charming; there was no doubt of that. And he was a bit irreverent, as Heero had pointed out earlier.

But he was also perceptive enough to have noticed Heero's discomfort at flying and help him calm himself for the landing. And he'd seemed impressed by Heero's refusal to let their elderly chauffeur lift the suitcases.

And why, Heero wondered, did he even care?

Was it because of one kiss? One simple, Earth-shattering kiss. A kiss that had shaken to its very foundation, Heero's belief in his own heterosexuality.

Before his mind could wander any further into that maze of thoughts, Heero finished his shower and dried off and dressed, keeping his attention firmly focused on the simple, familiar actions.

He slipped out of the bathroom in a small cloud of steam, and walked quickly past his slumbering companion and out the door.

A butler stood at the head of the stairs, ready to offer assistance, and Heero asked for directions to the parlor, where he expected that Relena would be waiting to greet him.

Instead, he walked in to find not only Relena, but several other people he recognized from back in prep school, as well as Milliardo and a dark-haired stranger.

"Heero!" Milliardo crossed the room in a couple of quick strides and held out a hand, which Heero took, only to find himself pulled into a brief hug. "Glad you could make it!"

"I'm happy to be here," Heero lied, stepping back and studying the regal features of his childhood friend. He managed a sincere smile then, pleased by what he saw. "You look great. Happy."

"I am," Milliardo said with a broad grin. "And I owe it all to Wufei here."

Heero turned his gaze to the oriental-looking man beside Mill, suddenly realizing that his old friend had an arm looped around the slender waist. He darted a questioning look at Mill.

"My fiance," Milliardo added with a nod of affirmation. "Whom I told you about when we discussed your becoming my groomsman?"

Heero's jaw dropped, as he momentarily lost the power of speech.

Milliardo was gay? Since when?

Heero thought back desperately to their brief phone conversation, trying to recall whether the word "male" had been bandied about at all.

"I -- I'm --." He found himself floundering, lost for words, and then instinct kicked in and he was able to add. "Pleased to meet you." He held out a hand, and Mill's companion took it with a smirk that suggested he was used to the stunned reaction.

"Likewise," he said politely. "Mill's told me you're a good friend. It's nice to finally meet in person."

"Speaking of meetings --," Milliardo spoke up, blue eyes twinkling with mirth. "When are we going to meet your significant other, Heero? Relena said he was quite striking."

Again Heero found himself at a loss. Despite the coaching back in the limo, he really hadn't prepared himself to answer questions about Duo and himself. Here he was suddenly "coming out" to the world, and it was all a bald-faced lie. He didn't know what to say.

"Heero?"

He fell back on auto-pilot again, letting his natural reticence take over and keep his answers short and simple. "Hn?"

"Care to fill us in?" Mill urged. "Last I knew, you weren't gay."

"Neither were you," Heero pointed out.

"Touche," Mill chuckled. "Apparently we both were late bloomers, eh?"

"I -- guess so."

Milliardo gave Heero a long once-over sort of look. "Pity we didn't know about this back in prep school, eh? We could have been great together."

Heero blushed crimson at the innuendo, relieved that Duo wasn't there to witness his cluelessness about his "old friend." And when Relena cut in, catching his arm and tugging him away from Milliardo, he wanted to hug her with gratitude…for a split-second anyway.

"Don't monopolize the latest guest, Mill," she scolded lightly. "I want to show Heero around the grounds."

Crap! The last thing Heero wanted was to be alone with Relena; to have to fend off her advances without blatantly insulting her.

Chapter Seven

"I -- um -- was really hoping to hear more about Mill's fiance," Heero blurted, resisting her gentle pull. "And maybe catch up with some old friends." He glanced around looking for familiar faces.

Dorothy Catalonia was there, of course; she'd been Relena's closest friend back in grade school, and a devoted hanger-on throughout high school.

Silvia Noventa, her partner in crime back in those days, was at her side, her curious gaze focused on Heero and Relena.

There were others in the room as well -- Alex, Heero's arch rival from prep school, as well as Mueller, Trant, Otto, and a few people Heero didn't recognize. He thought they might be Wufei's friends, or perhaps co-workers. But certainly he could take long enough meeting them all that Relena wouldn't have time to drag him off alone.

She gave a pretty pout, and began ushering him around the room, making introductions and re-introductions as needed.

Dorothy and Silvia didn't wait for the pair to get to them, but headed on an intercept course.

"Heero! Good to see you!" Dorothy gushed, her smile a bit wolfish. "And don't you and Relena look adorable together? Like old times."

"We were never --."

"She's right!" Silvia chimed in. "You two are picture perfect together." She slid a sly glance to the blonde. "Maybe you'll catch the bouquet, 'Lena."

Relena blushed, and cleared her throat uncomfortable. "Did I not tell you two that Heero has a guest along?"

Dorothy waved a hand dismissively. "Everyone brings a guest," she sniffed. "Doesn't mean anything. You're still available, aren't you, Heero dear?"

"Of course he is!" Silvia asserted. "There's no ring on his hand."

"I'm -- ah --," he stammered, unprepared for their direct approach.

"Yuy?" came a cool, masculine voice.

He turned to find Alex holding a drink and giving him the same patronizing smirk he remembered from high school.

"Harris," he acknowledged, giving a curt nod.

There was no love lost between Heero and Alex. They'd been rivals throughout school, each seeking to outdo the other in everything. And the animosity hadn't waned with time. There was a clear challenge in both sets of eyes.

"So where's this gorgeous date of yours everyone's talking about?" Alex asked.

"Resting," Heero said with a scowl, mentally cursing the lightning-fast rumor mill. "The flight over was a bit tiresome." He pointedly looked at the woman standing next to his long-time enemy, noticing the way she kept her eyes slightly downcast and seemed rather ill at ease.

But Alex didn't even offer to introduce her.

Heero wasn't surprised. Alex had been a player back in prep school, dating one girl after another. Towards graduation day, there'd been some allegations made; a young woman claimed he raped her, and supposedly a couple of others came forward as well.

Only Milliardo and Heero knew the whole story, since Alex was a distant relation to the Peacecrafts, and Heero's father had known the judge in the case. But apparently the girls' families had been paid to let the matter drop. Instead of going to jail, Alex graduated and went on to a prestigious law school, which he flunked out of rather spectacularly. The last Heero had heard, the man was working for the family business, which he'd no doubt inherit upon his father's death.

"When might we get to meet him?" Alex demanded, breaking into Heero's errant thoughts.

"He'll be down for dinner," Heero said testily.

"I can hardly wait," Alex smirked. "I've just got to see the guy who turned Heero Yuy gay."

"He didn't --." Heero stopped himself, realizing they were about to get into a sniping match that might upset the other guests.

Dismissing his old rival, Heero turned back to the others, and when he spotted another former friend across the room, he headed that way, hoping for a less confrontational meeting.

He stayed at the gathering just long enough to make the rounds, smoothly avoiding Relena, whose attention was split between him and her other guests. And when Mill and Wufei left to change for dinner, Heero figured he could do likewise.

He'd almost made it to the wide marble staircase in the main hall, when the patter of feet alerted him to Relena's approach. Gritting his teeth, he turned to face her. "Yes?"

"Heero -- I really was hoping we might find a -- private moment," she said hesitantly, her blue eyes pleading.

"Not right now," he said brusquely. "I need to wake Duo, so he'll have time to freshen up before dinner."

"How did you meet him?" Relena asked, a faint frown creasing her forehead. "And when?"

"It's rather a long story," Heero replied truthfully. "Perhaps I could tell it another time?"

Relena's shoulders slumped a bit, and she sighed and nodded. "Of course," she said politely. "I should be getting back to the other guests --."

Heero gave her a brief smile and nod. "We'll see you at dinner."

He trudged up the stairs and through the maze of corridors to the ornate door of the room he and Duo had been assigned, feeling bone-weary. Between the traveling and the meeting with Milliardo and Relena, he was downright spent. And there was no time for rest, either.

He stepped inside and closed the door behind himself. "Duo, time to wake up," he said flatly, crossing the room and turning on the lamp on the dresser.

There was no sound from the bed, save a quiet snore, and Heero turned and walked over, prepared to shake his companion awake. They only had an hour to get ready for the formal dinner.

Duo was curled up in a ball, the quilt pulled up under his chin, and his head burrowed into a plush pillow. He looked very young like that, mouth slightly open, and face relaxed in sleep. His braid trailed over one shoulder, and had come unraveled halfway down his back; apparently the hair tie had slipped off while he napped.

Heero found himself reaching out to run his fingers lightly through the loose chestnut waves, and barely checked the impulse, shaking his head. "Maxwell!" he said a bit louder.

Duo shifted restlessly, rolling half over and throwing an arm out to the side. He murmured quietly, and then settled back into sleep, his breathing steadying and slowing again.

"For crying out --." Heero sat on the edge of the bed, leaning in closer. "Duo?"

The braided man's forehead creased in a frown, and he snuggled into the quilt. And then he let out a soft moan, writhing under the blanket and murmuring incoherently.

Heero blinked, sitting back in surprise as the other man groaned again, moving around as if he were dreaming. If he didn't know better, he'd almost think Duo was having an -- erotic dream of some kind.

The next moan nearly made him jump up from the bed, certain his assessment was right. But one of Duo's hands brushed across his, and settled around his wrist. It felt like fire against the skin of Heero's arm, and he swallowed hard, his throat suddenly going dry.

"Mmm," Duo murmured sleepily. "Heero --."

The Japanese man twitched in surprise, nearly jerking his arm away. But instead, he settled for reaching his other arm to give Duo a firm shake. "Duo -- wake up!"

"Oh, Heero --," Duo groaned again, his hips rocking upwards against the blankets and his grip on Heero's wrist tightening. "Mmm -- yeah --."

Then his eyes opened, and he looked up with a rather perplexed expression. "'Ro?"

Heero could feel the blush suffusing his face, torn between pulling away and leaning in to try out another kiss.

Then Duo smiled impishly up at him. "Psych!"

"What?" Heero demanded.

"You totally believed I was havin' a wet dream about you, didn't ya?"

"No!" Heero snapped, standing up and moving away from the bed. "I was trying to wake you up, idiot! We have an hour to get ready for a formal dinner, and I thought you might like time to freshen up a bit." He turned his back on the other man, trying to gain control of his breathing again.

He heard a rustle and the thud of feet hitting the floor, and then felt a warm hand settle on his shoulder. "Sorry," came a rather subdued voice. "I just couldn't resist kidding around."

"Whatever," Heero replied, shrugging the hand off. "Get ready for dinner."

"Yeah, I'll do that." Duo headed towards the bathroom, pausing at the door and looking back with a rather wan smile. "Sometimes I'm an ass, Heero -- kidding around about the wrong things. Forgive me?"

"What's to forgive?" came the curt response, as Heero rummaged through his luggage to find the tie that matched his dress jacket. "If you want to be a smart-assed joker, that's your prerogative. Just don't do it in front of the guests tonight. You're being paid not to embarrass me, remember?"

"Yeah, I remember," was Duo's cool reply. "I'll be the perfect date, Mister Yuy, I promise." He shut the bathroom door with just a little more force than was strictly necessary.

Then, from behind the closed door, Heero heard a whoop of delight. "There really is a Jacuzzi!"

"Not right now!" he called back, unable to suppress a faint smirk that wanted to force its way through his scowl.

"Aw, please?"

"There's no time," he replied, walking closer to the door so he could lower his voice. "Besides, didn't we agree you have to watch your language for the whole evening in order to earn 'dibs' on it?"

"You agreed. I was still suspended in disbelief," Duo retorted.

"Well get un-suspended, and make it a quick shower. You can have the Jacuzzi all day tomorrow while I'm being fitted for my suit -- remember?"

"Oh yeah! While the cat's away --."

Chapter Eight

Heero was struggling with his tie when Duo stepped out of the bathroom with his still-damp hair combed and braided and a towel around his waist.

"What're you wearing, Yuy?" asked the braided man without preamble. Duo paused and took a long look. "Oh, nice. You look good in dark grey." He went over to his suitcase and pulled out a dark pair of slacks and a matching shirt. "Oh, this won't do."

"Do for what?" Heero asked blankly.

Duo shot him a glance and rolled his eyes. "Couples are supposed to match," he said as if it should be common knowledge. "If you wear grey, I should try to contrast and complement your attire."

Heero gave a bemused smirk. "You already complimented it."

"Har, har." Duo rummaged through his carry-on bag again, and withdrew a pair of pants that nearly matched Heero's, and a shirt that matched his dark blue eyes. "Hm. Better." He shook them out and ran a hand over the permanent press fabric to smooth a few wrinkles. "Do I have time to iron them?"

"Not really. But when you put them on, the wrinkles should relax on their own, don't you think?"

Duo eyed him warily. "For a not-gay guy, you sure know a lot about fabric," he teased.

"I'm a business executive," Heero snipped back. "I have to dress immaculately for the power meetings I attend."

Duo held up his hands in surrender. "Okay! Point taken. I retract my comment. You are totally manly and un-gay in all respects."

Heero shook his head. "Do you ever take things seriously?"

Duo paused in the act of pulling on a clean pair of briefs under his towel. "Of course I do -- when it's called for."

"Well, I'm calling for it," Heero said with a bit of exasperation creeping into his voice. "Please don't be teasing and irreverent around Relena tonight. It's bad enough I'm deceiving her into thinking I'm taken. I don't want you insulting her, or being patronizing."

Duo turned to face him, hands on his hips. "I may be a bit of a joker," he admitted. "But I'm never cruel, Yuy. Ever." His eyes flashed with emotion. "I'll be nothing but gracious to Relena, and her family. And I sure as hell wouldn't rub her face in the fact that she can't have you."

"Oh." Heero couldn't quite maintain eye contact, and felt yet another blush of shame on his cheeks. "Well, thank you."

He heard a snort of amusement, and looked up in time to see Duo pulling a pair of tailor-fitted slacks over his boxer-clad rear end, and fastening them. "You've gotta get over yourself, Heero. Maybe it was just the angle I was standing at, but Relena didn't seem to be totally broken up that you had someone with you."

"Well of course she wouldn't show it in public," Heero pointed out. "She's a princess, for heaven's sake. She's got her pride."

"Not enough pride not to follow you to college --."

"This isn't college," came the scowling response. "It's her home, and Mill's. And she's got probably fifty or more guests staying here for the weekend. She's certainly not going to fall apart in front of them."

"-- or maybe at all --."

"She's tried to get me alone twice already," Heero told the other man. "I barely managed to avoid it."

"What, exactly, are you avoiding?" Duo asked, throwing on his shirt and buttoning up the front.

"Her advances. Tears. A temper tantrum. I don't know!" Heero snapped in frustration.

"Maybe she just wants to talk about old times -- catch up on the news -- ask when and how you found out you were gay --."

Heero had a momentary urge to walk over and wipe the teasing little grin off Duo's face.

"That's what I mean about being irreverent!" he accused. "Don't make comments like that in front of Relena!"

"I won't," Duo insisted. "You're the one I'm baiting here. I know better than to do it to the little princess."

Heero gave him a rather wounded look. "Baiting me? Is that really necessary?"

Duo sobered at once, walking over and reaching for the front of Heero's shirt. But instead of grabbing it, he took hold of the tie, carefully adjusting the knot that the other man hadn't quite finished, and then smoothing it down the front of the shirt. "Like I said before -- sometimes I'm an ass, Yuy." Duo looked him squarely in the eyes. "I'll try to lay off teasing you. But sometimes you seem so uptight, you just scream for a bit of teasing -- to get you to loosen up."

"I know how to loosen up," Heero said defensively, reaching to straighten his tie, and accidentally brushing his hand over Duo's.

"If only --," Duo sighed, giving a small, mysterious smile, and then turning back to his suitcase to fish for a tie and finish dressing. "We'll need to hang our stuff for the next couple of days," he said conversationally, as he set aside a noticeably-rumpled suit coat. "Maybe I could snag an iron from the laundry room." He glanced over his shoulder. "They have a laundry room here, right? They must --."

Heero smiled patiently. "Of course. But more likely a maid will see the clothes hanging up while we're out and about, and take care of it for us."

Duo grinned at him. "Ya gotta love living like royalty, huh? Even for a couple of days."

"I guess you do," Heero admitted, walking to the door and holding it open. "Ready to go meet the Prince and his consort?" he said with a teasing grin of his own.

"I suppose I am," Duo replied, preceding him out.

As they walked down the long, carpeted hallway, Heero held out an arm for Duo, just as he would if his date were a woman, and Duo took it without hesitation, playing his part with ease.

"I should probably warn you before we get down there -- Milliardo's fiance is male," Heero said quietly.

"No shi--? Uh. No kidding?"

Heero pursed his lips to keep from smiling. "No kidding. His name is Chang Wufei, a Chinese gentleman Mill met while touring the Orient." Now that he was more relaxed, he could recall some of those details Milliardo had mentioned back when they spoke on the phone, though why the word "gentleman" had slipped his mind, was still a mystery. Or had Mill left it out on purpose? He tended to have a perverse sense of humor; maybe he'd been hoping for the shocked reaction he got…

"Wow. What's he look like?" Duo asked, pulling Heero out of his rambling thoughts.

"Dark hair and eyes -- a bit exotic. He's a scholar, from what I heard earlier."

"He sounds lovely."

"I'm not sure I'm much of a judge of male beauty," Heero said thoughtfully. "But he was definitely eye-catching."

Almost as eye-catching as the indigo-eyed man with the stunning chestnut braid.

Heero blinked, realizing that in addition to the rush of lust he'd felt when kissing Duo, there was a definite lingering attraction.

Apparently he was gay, after all -- or at least headed that way.

By this time they'd reached the dining room, and Heero held the door for Duo, who stepped inside and looked around wide-eyed at the glittering chandeliers and gleaming fixtures. "Wow -- this is some place."

"Indeed," came an amused, cultured voice.

Milliardo wore a small smile as he approached them, but it faded the instant he and Duo made eye contact.

"Zechs?" Duo blurted in obvious shock.

Milliardo flinched, and stepped quickly in, taking a firm grip on Duo's upper arm. "It's Milliardo Peacecraft here," he said in a tense undertone. "Come with me."

He glanced at Heero, who was watching in complete confusion, and then looked the other way, towards Relena. "Be right back, sister dear," he called, turning Duo around and forcefully ushering him out the door.

Wufei and Heero exchanged puzzled looks.

"What do you suppose that's all about?"

"I have no idea," Heero said with a frown. "What did Duo call him -- Zechs?"

Wufei's expression changed to a more knowing one. "I'll be right back." And he darted out on the heels of his fiance and the braided man.

Heero almost went after them, but Silvia intercepted him before he reached the door. "Heero! How good to see you again," she gushed, holding out a hand for him to drop a polite near-kiss on.

"Likewise," he said through gritted teeth, wondering what the hell Milliardo and Duo were up to.

Chapter Nine

Meanwhile, Wufei had almost caught up to his betrothed and the braided man, breathless from dashing down the long corridor to Mill's private office. But the door closed and locked before he got there, and he couldn't bring himself to knock. So he settled for placing his ear against the smooth wood surface and listening in.

"What's wrong?" came Duo's voice, muffled by the door.

"Nothing, Duo," Milliardo replied, his tone more moderate than before. "You just -- surprised the hell out of me -- that's all."

"How?"

"By using a name I haven't been called since college."

"You're Milliardo Peacecraft?"

"Afraid so," came an amused response.

"Prince Milliardo Peacecraft?"

"The same."

"Holy shit."

"Indeed."

There was a quiet moment, in which Wufei's imagination ran wild, wondering what was going on behind those closed doors. And then he heard Mill's steady tread and a squeak as he probably threw himself into the plush chair behind his desk.

"It's good to see you again, Ze-- uh -- Milliardo."

"Likewise." There was a pause and an audible sigh. "This is awkward as hell though, Duo. What are you doing here?"

"Same thing I did back in college to help make ends meet."

"You're an escort? For Heero Yuy?"

"Yep. Seems he's a little afraid of your sister," came a teasing voice, that made Wufei want to burst in there and demand to know what had transpired between the two men in the past.

"Relena?"

"Long story," sighed Duo. "Suffice to say, he didn't want to come here alone. I guess I'm supposed to act as a sort of buffer -- to give him an excuse not to romance her."

"So Heero's not gay?"

"Jury's still out on that one, pal," came a chuckling response. "I really can't get into the whole story. We'd be here all night. And considering how you dragged me out of the dining room, there'll already be a bunch of awkward questions to answer."

Again a long moment of silence tore at Wufei's nerves.

"So -- why the big lie? Why Zechs Merquise?" The braided man's voice sounded a bit -- hurt.

"I never meant to deceive you," Millardo replied. "That was the name I used for anonymity's sake back then -- so I could attend school without a flock of security guards and attendants hovering about."

"So you were a prince all along?" Duo wondered.

"Yes."

"Huh. Who'da thought I'd be able to say I dated royalty?"

Dated?!

Wufei ground his teeth together, fisting his hands in his hair. His fiance had dated the good-looking brunette?

Was that the "one who got away?"

Milliardo had mentioned once that he'd been quite enamored of someone with ginger-colored hair, back in college. But he hadn't talked about the braid -- or those dazzling eyes!

Wufei was debating whether to burst in and demand some answers, or head for his room to start packing, when he heard steady footfalls approaching in the hallway and turned to find Heero stalking towards him.

"Are they in there?" Heero asked curtly, and none-too-quietly.

Wufei made a shushing gesture, but Heero passed him and knocked firmly on the door. "Mill? Are you in there? What the hell is going on?"

Milliardo jerked the door open, looking a bit flushed and uneasy, and his gaze went from Heero's determined face, to Wufei's pale one. He raised a hand in a placating gesture. "Nothing to worry about," he assured them both.

Duo stepped up beside him, a lopsided grin on the too-pretty face. "No biggie," he said soothingly. "Mill just had to explain a couple things to me about the proper way to address a prince."

Heero frowned, looking between them. "You know each other?"

"We've met," Milliardo said tersely, his gaze seeking Wufei's, and having trouble finding it. "A long time ago," he said firmly. "I went by a different nickname back then -- one I'd prefer Duo not mention again."

"You got it, blondie," Duo said teasingly, giving a friendly punch to Mill's arm as he stepped out into the hallway next to Heero. He slipped an arm through his date's. "Wanna take me back to the dining room, hon? I think there are a few dozen people I've yet to meet."

Heero gave Milliardo a long, suspicious look, and then noticed the hand on his arm, and placed one over it, turning his attention to Duo. "Come along then," he instructed, leading his companion away. He'd get his answers later.

Wufei turned an accusing look to his betrothed. "Something you need to tell me?" he asked coolly.

"Not really," Milliardo said with a sigh, running a hand back through his platinum hair. "As I told Heero, I met his -- boyfriend -- some time ago, very briefly." He caught Wufei's hand, lifting it to place a tender kiss in the palm. "It was nothing you need to worry about, love."

Dark eyes searched his, and found nothing but warmth and sincerity in their depths. No matter what he'd overheard, Wufei couldn't help but believe that whatever had transpired between his fiance and the braided man was a thing of the past. He finally nodded, letting the issue go, for the moment.

"We can talk more about it later, if we must," Milliardo offered, sensing the hesitation. "Right now we've got a roomful of dinner guests, and it would be rude to keep them waiting any longer." He offered his arm. "Shall we?"

With a polite inclination of his head, Wufei took the proffered arm and let himself be led back to the dining room, trying all the way there to convince himself he should not take Milliardo up on the offer of a later conversation. What sort of mistrust did it imply, if he demanded lengthy explanations for something his fiance had assured him was of no consequence?

Chang Wufei was nothing if not proud, and he was deeply in love with his betrothed. He vowed not to fall prey to insecurities that were beneath him. But he clutched the muscular arm a bit more tightly as they walked.

They arrived to find Duo and Heero the center of attention, as Dorothy, Silvia, and Relena pelted the couple with questions about how they'd met, how long they'd been together, and what their future plans were.

Wincing in sympathy, Milliardo raised his voice to carry over the hubbub. "If everyone could take a seat -- it would be my pleasure to welcome you to Peacecraft Palace, and the pending nuptials of myself and my beloved Wufei."

Heero breathed a sigh of relief that the inquisition was over, and took a seat well away from Relena and her two gossipy friends, wondering how hard it might be to escape after dinner without another round of questions.

Duo slipped in beside him, sharing a wan smile. "Bit overwhelming," he admitted, before setting his napkin in his lap and digging in to the first course of the meal.

"Indeed." Even while enjoying the respite from making conversation, Heero found his thoughts drawn continually back to the fact that Duo and Milliardo had met before -- somewhere.

He wondered where, and how. Judging by Mill's extreme reaction to their meeting, they had some sort of history; more than just a passing acquaintance.

And why did that thought raise a specter of jealousy?

It wasn't like Heero was actually dating Duo. It was strictly a business arrangement -- even if the braided man's kiss had been what awakened Heero's realization of what his sexual preference might be.

"You okay, man? You look a little -- like maybe you've got indigestion," Duo whispered, leaning in close.

"I'm fine," Heero said curtly, frowning as he speared a forkful of salad.

"You sure?"

"Just a little tired."

Duo reached over and patted his hand in a rather intimate gesture, and Heero sensed several sets of eyes taking it all in. "Let me know if there's anything I can do, hm?"

Heero settled on a grunt of acknowledgment, still simmering over his suspicions.

To add insult to injury, he'd managed to completely overlook the fact that Mill had been dating men in college -- or at least one man. Not that they were at the same school, but they'd kept in touch better back then. Heero wondered how he could have been so dense about that sort of thing. And it did nothing to improve his mood.

He graciously waited until they were on their way back to the room after dinner to demand answers from Duo. But once they'd left the other guests and turned down the corridor towards their room, he leveled a piercing look on his companion.

"You and Milliardo?"

Duo sighed, running a hand back through his bangs. "Long time ago -- like he said."

"You dated?"

Indigo eyes shot him a challenging look. "What if we did? What's it to you?"

Heero paused. What, indeed, was it to him? "I was just wondering," he finally muttered, torn between uncertainty and anger.

"Well stop," Duo ordered. "First off, it's really none of your business. And secondly, it's old, old news." He gave an expansive shrug. "I mean, shit -- the guy's getting married in two days. We're here for his wedding. Should be pretty obvious there's nothing between us."

"Was there?"

"Again -- not your business," Duo said firmly. He pulled open the door of their room. "Couch or bed, Yuy? You pick."

"I told you I'd take the couch. It's only fair, since you didn't plan on ending up in this situation."

"Fine then," Duo replied, his tone almost as curt as Heero's had been. He pulled the heavy comforter off the bed, grabbed a pillow, and tossed both on the couch. "Need anything else?" he asked, busily unknotting his tie and setting it over the back of a chair so it wouldn't wrinkle.

Heero frowned, watching the other man unbutton his dress shirt while heading for the bathroom. He was half-tempted to make a comment about Duo not getting the Jacuzzi, since he'd said "shit" out in the hallway. But it felt like the teasing mood of earlier in the evening was long gone, and Heero wasn't quite sure how to get it back.

"Good night," he said stiffly, sitting on the couch and bending to unlace his shoes.

"'Night."

Heero had stripped down to his boxers and curled up in the comforter on the couch long before Duo emerged from the bathroom and walked silently over to climb into bed. And even after he switched the light off, it took an inordinately long time for sleep to finally claim either of them.

Chapter Ten

A brisk knock on the door by the maid the next morning roused both men, and Heero sat up groaning at the dull ache in his muscles from sleeping in a curled-up position on the couch.

"Damn," he sighed, forcing himself not to look longingly at the plush bed Duo was rolling out of.

"And a good morning to you, too," Duo grumbled, yawning and rubbing his eyes. "What time would it be in the States right now?"

"Midnight, I think."

"No shit." Duo slumped onto the edge of the bed, pulling his bedraggled braid over a shoulder and picking at the tie. "Really don't feel like getting up and trying to function right now," he sighed.

"You could stay in bed," Heero offered, twisting this way and that to loosen the tension in his back. "There's a short meeting this morning over breakfast for the wedding party. They're going to outline the schedule. And then I'm quite certain we've each got an appointment with the royal tailor, to fit us with tuxedoes."

"Better you than me," Duo quipped.

"Thanks." Heero stood and stretched his arms towards the ceiling, finally beginning to ease the stiffness.

"Was the couch that bad?" Duo asked quietly, his indigo eyes fixed on Heero's bare chest.

"It's fine," shrugged the Japanese man. "I just tend to sleep with my knees tucked when I'm on a couch, and it leaves me a bit stiff."

"Sorry."

Heero fixed the other man with a quizzical look. "Why are you sorry? This situation isn't your fault."

"No -- I'm sorry I got pissy about you askin' about me and Ze-- Milliardo," Duo mumbled, toying with the end of his braid.

Heero shrugged, picking up a brush and starting to rake it through his unruly hair. "As you pointed out, it's none of my business."

"Well, yeah. But I didn't have to get defensive about it," Duo pointed out. "It just really took me by surprise, seeing him -- and then realizing I never really knew him at all." He gave a shrug. "I thought we were friends."

Friends? Why did that word make Heero's heart jump a little bit?

"I'm sure you were," he said carefully. "And still are. I've known Mill since we were in grade school, and even though we live on separate continents now, I still consider him a friend. He's not the kind of man to forget his friends."

"Sounds like you aren't, either," Duo said with a vague smile.

"I'd like to think I'm not."

"That's good." Duo stood up and rummaged in his bag for a comb and toiletries. "Maybe after goin' through all this craziness, we could end up friends."

"It's entirely possible," Heero admitted, unable to keep from smiling.

Their morning was much more relaxed than the previous evening, as they took turns in the bathroom and then dressed in more casual clothing for the activities of the day.

Over an informal breakfast they listened to announcements, and found out Heero and the other men in the wedding party would be occupied until early afternoon with fittings. In the meantime, their guests would be treated to a guided tour of the palace and grounds, followed by a luncheon in the garden, and then free time to enjoy the spa or the gaming rooms.

They'd reunite with their partners at dinner, and then the men were off to a bachelor party at a nearby tavern the Peacecraft monarchs had patronized for centuries, while their dates were invited to a reception hosted by Relena.

Milliardo personally stopped by the table for two that Heero and Duo had acquired in the hopes of avoiding spending the whole meal fending off personal questions from the two women they'd dubbed "Relena's gossip squad." Silvia and Dorothy had contented themselves with sitting where they had an unobstructed view, if not the ability for a bit of casual eavesdropping.

The blonde prince gave a warm smile as Duo looked up at his approach. "Good morning, Duo. I wanted to make sure you realize you're invited to the bachelor party along with Heero."

"I am?"

Milliardo smirked openly. "You didn't expect to be shuffled off with the womenfolk, did you?" he teased.

Duo ducked his head, blushing a little. "Well it did seem like a trend," he pointed out. "Considering I'm gonna be lunching in a rose garden --."

Milliardo chuckled. "The rose garden is a lovely place to dine," he said firmly. "And you won't be the only man there. There are a couple of women in the wedding party, and they brought dates along too, you know. Male dates."

"Oh. I hadn't thought of that. I just figured, you and Wufei both being guys, you'd have all guys for your wedding party."

"Trust me -- while planning a same-sex wedding, Wufei and I took that into consideration. That's why we each made a point to include some females in our entourage. We looked at all possible combinations of activities and genders. There's hopefully something for everyone to enjoy."

His gaze fell on Heero, whose attention seemed focused on Duo to the exclusion of everything else, and a faintly speculative gleam entered his eyes. "I hope Relena hasn't been monopolizing your time --?"

"No!" Heero said quickly, looking up in surprise. "Not at all."

"Good. I know how she dogged your steps back in school." He dropped a hand on Heero's shoulder. "She's grown up quite a bit, you know -- isn't quite the little pest she used to be."

"That's good to hear."

Duo frowned, his glanced darting between Heero and Milliardo. "Trying to set up my date with someone else?" he asked in a bantering tone that barely concealed a much crisper one.

"Certainly not." Milliardo smiled tightly. "It would be a waste of time, considering Heero's -- orientation." He gave Heero's shoulder a little squeeze.

Duo's gaze intensified into something resembling a glare. "You might want to watch that hand, your highness. Wouldn't want to make your fiance jealous, now would you?" He looked pointedly across the room at the dark-haired Chinese man, who was making the rounds of the guests much as Milliardo was.

As if sensing the gaze on him, Wufei looked over, raising an eyebrow at the sight of his lover in close conversation with the two men.

Milliardo smiled serenely. "Wufei is the last person I'd want to make jealous." He gave Duo a teasing wink and went on his way.

"What was that all about?" Heero asked.

"I don't know," Duo said, staring at the prince's retreating back. "It seemed like some sort of word game, but I'm not sure I got the point." He shook his head and turned back to Heero, sharing a conspiratorial smile. "Maybe all that royal inbreeding finally took its toll." He made a little loopy gesture next to his head, and Heero had to clap a hand over his mouth to keep from laughing aloud -- both at Duo's irreverent gesture, and at the thought of Milliardo Peacecraft being off his rocker.

Their pleasant breakfast ended all too soon, and the members of the wedding party were asked to gather in the front hallway to be escorted to their personal tailors.

Heero stood to leave, and Duo caught his wrist, a sudden intensity in his blue eyes. "Not gonna kiss me goodbye, love?" he asked lightly.

The Japanese man paused, suddenly made acutely aware of several curious stares. He leaned in, fully intending to just brush his lips across the braided man's cheek. And in fact, it looked like that was exactly what Duo expected, as he turned his head fractionally to facilitate the move. But at the last second, Heero changed the angle of his head and kissed Duo squarely on the mouth.

It wasn't as -- involved -- as the kiss at the airport. Not with the kind of audience they had watching. But at the same time, Heero heard the hitch in Duo's breath, and the muffled groan as the indigo eyes fluttered shut.

When he pulled back, it took a moment for those eyes to open again, and Duo was staring at him with an almost perplexed expression on his face.

"See you at dinner," Heero said quietly, stealing another quick peck on the lips before turning and heading for the exit.

He was torn between feeling proud of the performance -- which had earned him a startled look from Relena as he passed her table -- and confused by it.

Why had he gone for the lips instead of the cheek? Surely a chaste peck on the cheek would have been enough to fulfill their role as a couple, wouldn't it?

Then why go for the lips?

Because he'd wanted to -- it was as simple as that. He'd felt a sudden urge to taste those lips one more time -- to see if the kiss at the airport had just been a fluke -- a moment of madness, or lust.

Apparently, it hadn't been. It felt just as intriguing and exciting as it had the first time.

Then a snide voice cut into Heero's mental rambling as he neared the foyer. "Turned into quite the exhibitionist, didn't you, Yuy?"

He turned a cold gaze on Alex. "I beg your pardon?"

"I'm surprised at you," Alex sneered, his superiority and contempt clear in his face. "I'd have thought you had more decency than to make out in the middle of a formal function."

"Make out?" Heero echoed in disbelief. "I kissed my date goodbye. How does that constitute 'making out?'"

"You kissed a guy," Alex pointed out. "That, in and of itself, could be considered public indecency."

Heero's eyes narrowed. "You might want to run that by Mill," he shot back. "I think he might harbor a different opinion." He brushed past the offensive man, and chose a place within earshot of several other people, in case Alex tried to pursue the conversation.

But his old nemesis backed off and within a short time, they went separate ways to their respective tailors.

Chapter Eleven

When Duo stood to leave his table, he found himself confronted by a blonde woman with rather sharp eyebrows, and a piercing set of eyes.

"Uh -- Dorothy?" he asked, hoping he recalled her name correctly from the night before.

"None other," she cooed, smiling with even, white teeth. "I've got to tell you, I've known Heero since, well, forever." She laid a gentle hand on his arm. "I hope he's treating you all right."

Duo looked down at the pale fingers on his sleeve. "Why wouldn't he?"

"Well -- I'm not one to tell tales," the woman demurred, looking away rather theatrically. "But some of his relationships haven't ended well at all."

"No kidding."

"You know, he and Relena were voted the class couple, back in the day. It seems like no matter how many other people he dates, he ends up back with her -- eventually."

"Back with --?" Duo echoed. Heero had very clearly told him he'd never dated Relena.

Dorothy saw the confusion on his face, and reached up to pat his cheek gently. "Oh dear. I hope I haven't said anything you didn't already know."

"I -- of course not."

"Oh good," she sighed. Her hand on his arm tightened briefly. "If you ever need someone to talk to -- just keep me in mind."

And then she glided away smoothly through the milling guests, while Duo stood staring after her and frowning.

"Whack job," he muttered, shaking his head and looking for the group of people gathering for the tour of the estate.

Silvia met Dorothy by the buffet table the servants were clearing. "Well -- how'd it go?"

"Perfectly," came the victorious reply. "He had the most dumbstruck look on his face."

"Oh good!" Silvia squealed, clapping her hands together in glee. "Now all we need to do is work on Heero a bit, and he'll see that he belongs with Relena."

"It won't be as easy as all that," Dorothy muttered, grabbing a bunch of grapes off a passing tray. "Heero was always playing hard to get -- remember? I don't know how the long-haired freak managed to snag him. But you saw the way they kissed. I think we'll have our work cut out for us prying them apart."

"Where do we even start?" Silvia wondered.

Dorothy's eyes lit upon Wufei, who was talking to one of the pastry chefs off to the side. "Why, we go right to the source, dear. Let's see what Milliardo's lovely little bride knows about Duo Maxwell, shall we?"

Wufei had just finished complimenting the quality of the morning's creations, and turned to head for the next matter requiring his attention, when he found himself confronted by two petite women.

He knew them both by name, as they'd been helping Relena with her duties as hostess to Milliardo's guests. "Dorothy. Silvia. What can I do for you ladies?" he asked politely.

Dorothy looked up at him with her most appealing gaze. "We've been just dying with curiosity," she said with a dramatic hand on her breast. "Heero brought that exquisite young man with him to the wedding, and yet we know virtually nothing about him!"

Wufei's expression darkened as he recalled the closed-door conversation the braided man had shared with his fiance. "What's to know?" he said curtly. "He's Heero Yuy's date. Nothing more."

"But where is he from? And how did they meet?" Dorothy pleaded. "How long have they even been together?"

"Heero's like a brother to us," Silvia chimed in. "We go back so far! And he's being tight-lipped as a clam about his new acquaintance."

"You're -- worried about him?" Wufei asked a bit skeptically.

"Yes, that's it!" Dorothy said brightly. "We just want to know he's not being taken advantage of by some smooth-talker." She homed in on the flicker of emotion that passed through the Chinese man's eyes. "Is it true that Milliardo knows this Maxwell character from somewhere?"

There was a flash of anger in the dark eyes, and she knew she'd struck pay dirt.

Wufei's back stiffened, and his chin lifted almost imperceptibly. "Milliardo would hardly be acquainted with someone in Maxwell's line of work," he scoffed.

"And that is --?" Dorothy asked breathlessly.

"He's an escort," Wufei told her with a disdainful curl of his lip.

"As in -- a prostitute?" she gasped.

"I have no idea of the scope of his duties," Wufei replied. "I just know that for some reason, he's accompanying Heero to this function as his date." He gave an unconcerned shrug.

Dorothy was speechless with delight -- almost unable to believe her good fortune.

"If you'll excuse me," Wufei added coolly, "I've got guests to attend to."

"Of course," Silvia said politely, watching with Dorothy as he strode quickly away.

"This is perfect!" Dorothy said with a relieved look. "If all Maxwell's here for is to help Heero save face, it should be no trouble at all separating them."

"Save face? How can hiring a date help him save face?"

"You mean, aside from the fact that we're the only people here who know about his little farce? It's obvious, dear. Heero hasn't got anyone. And when he received the wedding invitation, he was probably too embarrassed to show up alone. So he hired someone to tag along."

"A male someone? Why on Earth would he do that? It's got to be more embarrassing than just coming alone!"

"Not for a proud man like Heero Yuy," Dorothy argued, heading for the hallway even as she spoke. "He's trying to put on a brave face and make Relena believe he's unattainable."

"Well, if he's gay --."

"Don't be silly! Of course he isn't. He's just going overboard on the act, that's all."

"And you know this how?"

Dorothy waved a hand dismissively. "I'm never wrong about these things. Trust me, Sil. And watch me work --."

Heero sighed for perhaps the thousandth time as the tailor made yet another minute adjustment to the shoulders of his jacket. "Are we almost done?"

"Momentarily…momentarily," murmured the woman, picking at a loose thread.

"I think you said that about fifty 'moments' ago," Heero pointed out.

The woman clucked her tongue, tugging at his sleeve. "These things can't be rushed, Mister Yuy. Everything must be just so."

"Just so" annoying, Heero decided.

He'd spent literally hours being measured, fitted, and adjusted. Lunch had been brought for them at some point in the process, and Heero had wolfed it down, eager to break free of the dull occupation.

He wondered, not for the first time, if Duo was enjoying the palace tour and the garden luncheon. He suspected the adaptable young man would find it all very interesting. Anyone with that much "joie de vivre" would soak up new experiences like a sponge.

From the moment they'd met on the plane, Duo had taken everything very much in stride -- willing to adapt to a male date, instead of a female -- being thrown into a very formal, royal setting -- and even dealing with the hoards of new faces, incessant questions, and being thrown the curve of realizing his old friend Zechs was actually Prince Milliardo Peacecraft.

Yes, Duo had more than pulled his weight in their little charade. And on top of that, he was very good company.

Heero blinked at the realization. While he'd never been the most social of men, he had a few close friends whose company he enjoyed. And not one of them was anything like Duo Maxwell.

Quatre was probably the closest, in that he was friendly and charming. But he didn't have Duo's outgoing nature. He was a little bit shy among strangers.

And Trowa, Quatre's significant other, was easily as taciturn as Heero, but with a wry sense of humor and an occasionally biting wit.

Duo was -- like an irresistible force. He'd breezed onto the plane with a rushed apology for his lateness, and then promptly acted like they were old friends instead of total strangers. He'd given Heero his water, after the near-panic attack upon takeoff.

And why did that stick in Heero's mind?

It had been a very kind gesture, given to someone who'd done nothing but snap since they'd met.

Yes, Heero could imagine staying friends with Duo once this wedding was over. In fact, he had a hunch it would be unavoidable.

"Ah, you like the fit now, sir?" asked the woman, smoothing his lapels.

"Hm?" He broke out of his thoughts to fix a questioning look on her.

"You're smiling," she noted.

So he was. Heero put a self-conscious hand to his mouth, and ducked his head. "Yes, the fit is fine," he assured her.

"Then you're free to go," she replied with a smile of her own. "Leave the suit hanging in the dressing room, and we'll have it brought to your room when it's been cleaned and pressed."

"Thank you."

Heero made his escape, suddenly eager to find out how Duo's day had gone.

But he only made it as far as the stairs up to the guest wing, when he heard his name called.

"Heero!"

He sighed, turning, to see Relena scurrying across the marble floor. "Yes?" he asked curtly.

She paused, looking a bit uncertain. "How was the fitting?"

He refrained from rolling his eyes at the lame attempt to start a conversation. "Boring as hell," he said flatly. "And I'm very much looking forward to a shower and a bit of rest before leaving for the bachelor party."

Her lips twitched in a tiny smile. "Oh yes -- the 'decadent display' Wufei is so set against."

"He is?"

She gave a short laugh, putting a guilty hand over her mouth. "Totally," she admitted. "He's a very reserved gentleman, you know. Not given to public displays or 'unseemly behavior,' as he puts it. Haven't you noticed Mill doesn't even kiss him on the cheek in public?"

"I -- guess I hadn't."

"Unlike you and Duo," Relena added, her blue eyes searching his face. "You both are much more -- expressive."

He tensed, waiting for a reprimand or accusation.

"You surprised me at breakfast," she continued, glancing away as if uncomfortable. "I never figured you for the demonstrative type."

"I'm not."

She gave a rather unladylike snort.

"Look -- as I said, I need a bit of a break," Heero said impatiently. "Could we talk about this some other time?"

She frowned, looking displeased. "There was something I wanted to discuss with you --."

"It will have to wait."

"But, Heero --."

Just as he was about to open his mouth to retort, he heard a welcomed voice hailing him, and Duo came down the stairs two at a time, throwing himself into Heero's arms with just a bit more force than seemed necessary.

"Missed you!" Duo blurted, hugging him tightly. "You should have seen the gardens --!"

"He's seen them before," Relena spoke up rather tartly. "They haven't changed much in the past ten years."

Duo lifted his head from Heero's shoulder, meeting the blonde's chilly gaze with a totally disingenuous smile. "Gardens are always changing, your highness. 'What blooms well one year, might languish the next,' to quote your delightfully knowledgeable tour guide."

She rolled her eyes. "Be that as it may, Heero has been to this palace many times in the past. I'm sure he recalls the lovely gardens."

"Yes, but --." Duo looked up imploringly at Heero. "This time maybe he'd appreciate what a romantic setting it is."

Heero pressed his lips together to keep from smirking at the playful look in Duo's eyes. "Later, love," he said in a warm voice. "Right now we've got to get ready for the bachelor party."

"Wufei called it a 'decadent display,'" Duo told him cheerfully. "I heard him going on and on about the injustice of it when he and Mill made the rounds at the luncheon. He's really kinda adorable when he's ranting."

Heero caught a startled look from Relena, and the faintest trace of a suppressed smile. She shook her head in a helpless gesture. "I see you have your hands full, Heero. We'll talk later -- yes?"

"Later," he said with relief.

She gave a polite nod to both of them, and walked briskly away, back to whatever hostess activities required her attention.

Duo heaved a sigh and slumped against Heero. "This has been the longest fucking day!"

"Language," Heero reminded him.

"She's gone."

"Yes, but I'm not. And you're close to losing those Jacuzzi privileges."

"Oh no you don't!" Duo argued, pulling back, but keeping Heero's hand firmly gripped in his, tugging him in the direction of their room. "After all the aggravation I put up with today, I'm totally owed a luxurious soak in that thing."

"What aggravation? You had a tour of the palace and lunch in the gardens. I half expected to find you in the hot tub when I got back to the room. But since you're not -- I say the first one there gets it!" He quickened his pace just slightly, as if he might sprint off at any second.

"A race? In a fancy palace?" Duo said in a scandalized voice, hanging back and trying to hold Heero back as well.

"Why not?"

"For one thing, I'm beat. We must've covered every square inch of this palace on the tour. And then I got cross-examined by two of Relena's co-harpies off and on all day," Duo huffed.

Heero glanced aside at the braided man as they walked. "Dorothy and Silvia, I suppose?"

"Yes! And why do they seem to have a grudge against you?"

"You mean, aside from the fact that I never dated Relena, and they were her biggest proponents?"

"According to them, you did date Relena."

"What?" Heero stumbled to a halt, forcing Duo to do the same or relinquish the hold on his hand.

"According to Dorothy and Silvia, you two were practically inseparable in high school."

"Look, just because she followed me around like a lovesick puppy --."

Duo jerked a thumb back over his shoulder to indicate the foyer where he'd found Heero and Relena. "Hasn't changed much, has she?"

"Doesn't look that way." Heero continued on the way to their room.

"I think her two buddies are trying to hook you two up," Duo commented, his expression pensive. "Or at least scare me off."

Heero tightened his grip on the slender fingers. "Don't let them."

"I won't." Duo gave him a cheeky grin, pulling free and stealing the lead in their race to the hot tub. "After all, you paid for me for the whole weekend."

If he'd had an inkling that any other ears were listening, he might have chosen to rephrase his joking comment.

Chapter Twelve

"He came right out and said it," Silvia reported to Dorothy later that evening, as they were sharing tea on the veranda. "Heero paid for him for the weekend!"

"So all that talk about working for some salvage company as a design engineer was just bullshit?" Dorothy mused. "Why, he's good. Very good. I was almost ready to buy into his line of tripe."

"Me, too. He sounded so sincere this afternoon -- talking about how they met through a mutual friend. Mutual friend, indeed!" She pouted into her tea, as if Duo's concocted story was a personal affront.

When Dorothy didn't pick up the conversational ball, too absorbed in her own devious thoughts, Silvia continued blithely on.

"Of course, this should make it much easier. Why don't we just pay Maxwell to disappear? Problem solved."

"I'm afraid it won't be that easy," Dorothy mused. "Hired or not, that braided menace seems to be enjoying Heero's company." She tapped her chin with a manicured finger. "A prostitute who enjoys his work?"

"Well, with Heero as a customer, who wouldn't?"

"So -- we'll simply have to hook Heero up with Relena in spite of the obstacle. Then either Heero will send him away, or he'll see that he's unwanted and go on his own."

"And how will we hook them up?"

"Working on it, dear. Working on it," Dorothy sighed, swirling her tea in her cup and then taking a long sip. "And I know just who can help."

"-- such a shame that dear old Quatre couldn't make it for this!" Milliardo was saying over a mug of the renowned ale at the Royal Tavern.

In fact, judging from the rosy glow on his cheeks and the too-bright glitter of his eyes, it was one mug out of many.

"But he'll be here tomorrow," Heero reminded him, sipping his own ale at a slightly more reasonable rate. "He wouldn't miss your wedding for the world." He frowned in recollection. "As a matter of fact, he's the reason I'm here."

"He is?" Milliardo asked tipsily. "How so?"

"He convinced me that attending was worth braving the lengthy flight."

"And your sister's advances," Duo muttered from Heero's other side, just quietly enough that it slipped past the inebriated prince.

Heero elbowed his date firmly in the ribs.

Duo masked his grunt of pain as a burp, following it with a polite, "Excuse me," and a glare at the side of Heero's head.

For about the thousandth time in Duo's company, Heero found himself trying to refrain from grinning.

He wished Quatre was there as much as Milliardo did -- but for a very different reason. He could hardly wait to introduce the friendly blonde to his sister's blunder. Seeing the expression on Quatre's face would be worth all the aggravation he'd gone through.

At least, he hoped so.

He downed the last of his ale, and Duo grabbed the empty mug, hopping off his stool. "Goin' for refills," he said blithely.

"Duo --."

"Oh, get me one, would you?" Milliardo asked, shoving his half-empty glass towards the braided man.

"Sure, your highness," Duo said with a grin.

Heero caught his arm, giving him a warning look and a slight shake of his head, and Duo leaned in to whisper in his ear. "I'll have 'em water it down a bit. Wouldn't do to have a hung-over prince in the morning."

He disappeared into the crowd, heading for the bar, and Milliardo slung a companionable arm across Heero's shoulders.

"You're a lucky man, Yuy. He's quite lovely, you know."

"And you're quite drunk," Heero replied blandly. "I suggest you back off on the liquor, unless you want to make a stupid comment like that in front of your fiance. Didn't you tell me he's an expert with a katana?"

Mill's eyes widened, and he glanced furtively around. "Wufei's not here, is he?"

"No, Mill," Heero said patiently. "He said that going out to drink and watch strippers was a barbaric and senseless waste of time. I believe he had every intention of reading a book, if what he snapped as you were leaving was the truth. And I think he warned that he'd be waiting up, and you'd better not be wearing any less clothing than you had on when you went out. Or else."

"Temperamental little devil, isn't he?" smirked the prince.

"He's cultured and articulate," Heero reminded him. "And yes, temperamental. I think he suits you."

Milliardo sighed dreamily. "To a tee."

For the first time that evening, Heero decided he needed another drink, and he looked around, realizing Duo hadn't come back yet. He frowned down at his watch, and then turned so his face was next to Milliardo's ear. "Be right back. I'm going to help Duo with the drinks."

"I'll be right here," Milliardo promised, leaning his elbows on the bar and propping his chin in his hands.

Duo had finished procuring more drinks and was maneuvering carefully through the crowd with three overfilled mugs, when he nearly ran straight into one of the other guests.

"Oh, excuse me --."

Dark eyes looked down at him from a handsome face with chiseled features, and the man smiled warmly. "Quite all right," he assured the flustered brunette.

Sure enough it was one of Heero's old "high school chums" he'd been introduced to in passing. He frantically searched his memory for a name. "Alex, wasn't it?"

"You remembered," came a delighted response.

"Yeah, well," Duo shrugged, taking a half-step back as the man intruded a bit into his personal space. "I'm pretty good with names, an' I'm trying to keep up with meeting all Heero's old school buddies."

Alex gave a short laugh. "We weren't exactly buddies," he said with a gleam in his dark eyes. "More like rivals. In everything."

Duo gave him a sharp look. "Ah," he said, fumbling for a polite exit line. "Good thing you're both adults now, and that's all in the past."

"I wouldn't exactly say that," Alex mused, his expression speculative.

"Are you business rivals now?" Duo inquired archly.

"No -- but I wouldn't mind giving him a run for his money over you," purred Alex, leaning in closer.

"As flattering as that is," Duo said icily, "Heero and I are in a committed, long-term relationship. There is no contest for you to win. I'm already his, heart and soul."

He neatly stepped around the other man, intending to continue on his way, but Alex caught his elbow in a firm grip. "That's not what I heard. In fact, quite the opposite." He stepped closer, so that his chest was almost against Duo's back. "I'm a rich man, you know. I could make it worth your while."

Duo tensed, preparing to slam his free elbow into the man's ribs, and then froze as Heero broke through the crowd and came face to face with them.

"Duo?"

He opened his mouth, but before he could say a thing, Heero's gaze slipped over his shoulder and homed in on Alex.

"If you don't mind, Harris, Duo's with me."

"Why not let him decide that?"

"I already did!" Duo snapped crisply, pulling his arm free and spilling one of the drinks in the process.

Heero didn't wait for Alex to move, but slipped smoothly in between the dark-haired man and Duo. "Back off."

Alex rolled his eyes. "So dramatic!" he taunted. "Honestly, Yuy, I was just having a bit of fun."

"It didn't look like Duo was enjoying your 'fun.'" Heero edged closer, and lowered his voice. "We both know you don't swing that way, Harris."

"I'm flexible. And he's hot." Alex gave an arrogant smirk. "I was just -- admiring the scenery."

Duo had set aside the drinks by then, and moved up beside Heero. "He's not worth it, love," he murmured, one hand curling gently around Heero's bicep. "An' he's probably drunk off his ass -- like Mill. C'mon back to the table."

Heero was about to shake Duo's hand off his arm, when he met the indigo eyes and saw the concern there.

"C'mon," Duo repeated quietly. "Milliardo probably needs us to help prop him up by now."

The hint of humor in his too-tense voice was just enough to get Heero to listen and respond. With a last glare at Alex, he followed Duo's advice and headed back to the table.

"What kind of shit was he saying to you?" he asked in a growl, as they wound their way through the packed tavern.

"The drunk kind," Duo said with a shrug, writing off both the incident and Alex all in one breath.

Heero would have liked to believe it was that simple, but he knew Alex far too well. He considered mentioning the incident to Milliardo -- maybe after the crown prince sobered up -- but since Alex was more or less "family," Mill would still be obligated to have him in the wedding party.

As Duo had said, the man wasn't worth the effort.

"Jeeze, man," Duo muttered as they slid back into their seats. "Thought you were gonna start a freakin' brawl in the middle of the Peacecraft bachelor party."

"I wanted to."

When his words were met with silence, Heero looked over to see Duo looking at him with a smile playing about his lips. "You were gonna fight over me? How -- medieval." His smirk blossomed into a teasing smile. "I think I'm flattered."

At that point, Milliardo slung an arm over Duo's shoulders, joining their conversation somewhat belatedly. "Should be!" he slurred happily. "Never seen Heero so totally schmit -- er -- smitted --. In love!" he concluded loudly.

Duo rolled his eyes at the tipsy monarch's rambling. "Sleep it off, Peacecraft," he suggested.

"Later," Milliardo insisted. He raised a shot glass filled with the finest whiskey in Sanc. "Time for the drinking contest!"

Everyone gathered around at his cry, ready to participate in yet another time-honored Peacecraft tradition -- although -- no one seemed to know exactly where that tradition got started.

But there it was. And there they were. And everyone was forced to participate in at least the first round.

How it became a one on one contest between Heero and Alex -- again -- no one seemed to know.

But it did.

Chapter Thirteen

Heero found himself seated at a table opposite his long-time rival, glaring over shot glasses, as they downed drink after drink, in a contest that had little to do with Milliardo's bachelor party, and everything to do with fighting over Duo's honor.

"Jeezus," Duo whispered in Heero's ear at one point. "You don't have to do this, man. Let's just concede the game and get outta here --."

"No."

"Like I said before, he's not worth it."

Heero spared a slightly glassy-eyed look at his worried companion. "But you are." And he downed yet another drink.

It was a bit of a blur after that. While aware that he more or less won the drink-off, Heero didn't have the coherence to absorb much of what went on during and just after it.

He must have made it back to the palace, because that was where he ended up -- though he wasn't sure how --.

He had a vague recollection of an arm slung around his waist, and his arm pulled across shoulders for support. And Duo's soothing, somewhat amused chatter kept him occupied while they made their way up to their room.

Then he let himself collapse onto the softness of a bed, groaning in relief that he didn't have to keep struggling to stay upright.

There was a fuzzy memory of Duo chiding him about sleeping in his clothes, and then helping him out of those same clothes, promising to have the maid take care of getting them cleaned and pressed.

He was shuffled under warm covers, and a cup was held to his lips. When he balked at the thought of more alcohol, Duo's voice assured him it was water and would help stave off a hangover. So he drank.

Things got even more fragmented after that. He recalled Duo saying something about the couch, and heard his own voice arguing that the bed was big enough for two.

Which might explain why he woke up the next morning with a warm body tucked in against his side.

He stirred and groaned, reluctantly cracking open one eye to see that the blinds were drawn and the room was blessedly gloomy. He also saw a chestnut head nestled on the pillow beside his, and realized his arm was wrapped firmly around a slender waist, and Duo's braid was draped across his chest.

"Duo?"

"Hm?"

"How'd --? Why are we --?"

Great. He couldn't seem to string two words together into a coherent sentence.

But Duo seemed to understand the abbreviated babble. "Got ya back here las' night," slurred the brunette rather sleepily. "Figured as wasted as you were, you d'served the bed. But you wouldn't let go of my arm -- told me there was more than enough room for two."

"Oh."

Heero shifted, trying to pull his arm out from under Duo, but the other man was more or less dead weight.

"Relax," he murmured drowsily. "'M not gonna take advantage of you. Jus' wanna sleep a few more minutes, hm?"

And then Duo was snoring lightly, and Heero found himself stuck where he was. He couldn't extricate himself from the limbs of his bed partner without disturbing his slumber. And after Duo had been kind enough to haul his ass back up to the room, he felt he owed him that much.

So he settled back into his pillow and closed his eyes, trying not to focus on the warmth of the body pressed up to his, or the soft brush of the silky braid across his chest. But after only a few moments, both began to have an effect on him.

He found himself wondering what that hair would look like out of the braid. He'd noticed it the day before, when Duo was on the balcony and the wind had loosened some of the strands. They'd fluttered around Duo's face in a most enticing way, making Heero long to reach out and tuck them back -- or just run them through his fingers.

And now they were lying on his skin -- thickly twined into a heavy, satiny braid -- a braid he wanted very much to disassemble.

Of course, thoughts like that brought an image of Duo's face framed by waves of chestnut hair -- leaning over Heero so that the silken mass pooled on his skin -- a very erotic image.

"Y'okay?" came a voice thick with sleep.

Heero twitched guiltily. "What?"

"I said," Duo elaborated, pushing up onto an elbow and looking at him through half-lidded eyes. "Are you okay? You moaned."

"I did?"

Duo smiled wearily. "Yeah, you did." He placed a cool hand on Heero's forehead, frowning a little. "Hung over much?"

"It's -- not bad," Heero managed, glad that he was flat on his back so that his groin and the telltale stirring there, weren't pressed up against his companion.

"Good." Duo's hand slipped from his forehead, down the side of his face, to settle on the front of his shoulder. "Can I get you something?"

Heero's eyes widened as his mind offered all sorts of things he'd like to get from Duo. "S-something?" he stuttered.

Duo frowned momentarily, indigo eyes searching his face, and then gave a soft, sort of sad smile. "Water? Aspirin?"

"Oh."

Duo frowned again, and then a speculative gleam entered his eyes. "Or was there something else you wanted?"

Heero froze, his mind going blank as he fumbled for a reply, wondering how Duo had caught the disappointment in his tone.

"-- 'cause if there was," Duo added in a slightly husky whisper. "I might be willing --."

And then his lips gently covered Heero's, and he rolled so that their bodies were overlapping, and Heero could wrap his other arm around the lean waist as well.

Holy shit!

Heero balked momentarily, trying to bring his wayward body back under control. But then he decided it wasn't worth the effort. If Duo felt this good in his arms, what was the point in fighting it?

Instead, he threw himself wholeheartedly into the kiss, and the touches, and the feeling of rightness. He'd never felt this attracted to anyone in his entire life -- and that had to mean something, didn't it?

"Less thinkin' -- more kissin'," Duo murmured against his lips, apparently hearing the wheels turning in his head.

So he obliged his companion, concentrating on the feel of those warm lips and the hot, slick tongue, while indulging his urge to loosen that incredible braid and let the silky hair spill all around them.

"Gonna be a bitch to comb," Duo mumbled, kissing his way down Heero's throat, and making the dark-haired man squirm and pant.

"I'll do it for you," Heero gasped, sinking both hands into the mass of hair and groaning at the soft, sensual feel of it.

They rocked against each other, and Heero realized he still had his boxers on, and that Duo must have worn sweatpants or something to bed, because there was fabric between their straining bodies.

"Too many clothes," he groaned, feeling a hand slip down to rub his trapped erection.

"Wasn't planning on sex --," came the breathless answer.

"Better start --," he countered, sliding a hand from the silky hair, down the lean back and under the waistband of those sweatpants.

He had a handful of lean, muscular buttock, and was working out the logistics of losing the last of their clothing, when there was a tap on the door, and it opened a few inches to allow a blonde head to peer in.

"Heero --?"

It felt like a bucket of ice water spilling over his head when he registered the slightly shocked sound of Relena's voice, and he sat up so sharply that Duo ended up across his lap, shrouded in loose hair.

"Relena!" Heero blurted in shock. "What the --?"

Her eyes widened at the sight of his bare chest and the flushed face, and she ducked back behind the door. "I'm sorry!" she blurted. "It's just -- the limousine will be here in an hour to take the wedding party to the rehearsal, and the maid said you hadn't been out of the room yet!"

He blinked, rubbing his eyes, and looking down at Duo's flushed and embarrassed face. "What time is it?"

"Eleven."

"Shit. I'll -- be right there," he sighed.

"There's no hurry," she said, still sounding flustered and uncertain. "I just wanted you to have a chance to eat some breakfast first --."

His stomach gave a small lurch at the thought of food, and he grimaced.

"Toast and tea," Duo whispered, still draped unceremoniously across his lap.

"I -- had a bit to drink at the bachelor party," Heero told Relena. "Just tea and toast for me this morning, I think."

"There's plenty of that," Relena answered, sounding a bit more in control. "Marie will have places set in the dining room. And if you need time to -- freshen up -- don't worry. I'll have the limousine wait."

Heero splayed a hand across his face, feeling the heat of a blush. "Thank you," he said stiffly.

The door closed with a little click, and Duo began to chuckle, trying to muffle it in a pillow.

Heero glared down at him. "What's so funny?"

"You. Her. Everything!" Duo snickered. "That chick has the worst timing --!" He rolled onto his back and sat up, fumbling to gather his hair into some semblance of order.

Meanwhile, Heero tried to puzzle out whether he was annoyed at the interruption, or relieved. While Relena's appearance had cooled his ardor, it hadn't made him feel like he "came to his senses." He still felt an irresistible attraction to the man in his bed -- a desire to feel and taste more of that incredible body.

But at the same time, he was embarrassed by his loss of control. He certainly hadn't meant to flirt or tease -- and he definitely hadn't intended to have sex with someone he'd only known a couple of days.

What the hell was wrong with him?

"Second thoughts?" Duo asked quietly, having more or less tamed his wayward hair and woven it into a loose braid again.

Shaken out of his thoughts, Heero looked at the uncertain expression on the braided man's face.

"'S okay," Duo assured him, his gaze sliding away. "I shouldn't have pushed. You made it clear enough from the start --."

"Shut up, Duo." Heero very deliberately caught Duo's chin in his hand, and turned his face back towards him. "I'm not having second thoughts." He brushed a soft kiss across trembling lips. "But I am glad Relena interrupted."

Duo looked perplexed.

"I'm not into casual sex," Heero said firmly. "And I feel like we don't know each other that well yet." His blue eyes burned with intensity. "Hell, I don't even know myself that well yet. I'm just now figuring out that I'm attracted to men. Or -- well -- to you." He ran a thumb across Duo's lips. "Would you hate me if I said I need more time to sort things out?"

"'Course not," Duo said, though there was a trace of disappointment in his tone. "This has been a kinda crazy trip, an' I can see where you'd want to take a step back and get yourself sorted out." He licked his lips nervously. "Maybe some day you could gimme a call, if you ever want to --."

Heero frowned in confusion. "Some day?"

"Well, yeah. I'm assuming you mean you want to part company when we get back home --."

"No!" Heero blurted so sharply that Duo flinched. "I mean, no," Heero continued in a softer tone. "That's not what I meant at all. I want us to have a nice weekend here, and go back home on that plane, and then maybe date for awhile, so we can get to know each other better."

Duo blinked wide eyes. "Oh."

"Is that okay with you?"

"Very okay," Duo said with a relieved smile. "Perfect, actually." He daringly leaned in for a kiss, and Heero met him halfway.

Then Duo pushed back on his shoulders, his breathing a little heavy. "Wow. You oughta get going an' take a shower so you can do your 'wedding party' thing. Otherwise I'm gonna totally try to convince you to break that rule about casual sex --."

Heero managed a wry snort, though his own breathing was none too steady. "Wouldn't take much convincing," he admitted with a sexy little smirk.

He struggled free of the blankets and got out of bed, leaving Duo lying there with a perfectly delicious looking pout. "Damn, Yuy. No wonder Relena never got over her crush," Duo commented. "You're a fucking tease!"

Heero gave a mock scowl. "I never teased her," he insisted.

"You don't even have to try," Duo argued. "You do it just by having such gorgeous eyes and sexy hair. Y'can't even help yourself -- you know that?"

"Just get up and get dressed," Heero grumbled, trying not to blush at the compliments. "We haven't got much time."

"But I'm not in the wedding party."

"No, but you are my date. And there's no reason you can't come along and sit in the back to watch the rehearsal."

"I won't be in the way?"

"I don't care if you are," Heero shrugged, gathering some clean clothes out of his suitcase, and heading for the bathroom. "I want you with me." He went inside, closing the door, and Duo sat there grinning goofily for a moment, before heading for his own suitcase.

Chapter Fourteen

"Well, what the hell is he doing here?" Dorothy snipped in Relena's ear, when she saw Duo arrive with Heero at the rehearsal.

"Heero didn't want to leave him on his own today," Relena replied, her cheeks turning slightly pink at a certain recollection. "He doesn't know anyone else."

"Yes, but he's not part of the wedding party," Dorothy pointed out. "Why don't I drive him back to the palace and turn him over to the staff there? I'm sure they can keep him -- entertained."

"I don't think Heero would like that very much --," Relena said dubiously.

"This isn't about what Heero wants, dear. It's about proper etiquette. His pretty little sidekick isn't part of the bridal party; he's just in the way here."

Heero pulled Duo into a lingering kiss, and then sent him to sit in a back pew of the royal chapel, before walking up the aisle to join the other groomsmen.

"There," Relena said, sounding relieved. "Duo's found an out-of-the-way spot to wait. It'll be fine, Doro."

Dorothy laid a hand on Relena's arm. "Don't be so self-sacrificing, 'Lena. It's a slap in the face for Heero to bring someone like that to the wedding in the first place. But to parade him around --."

Relena turned a wide-eyed look to Dorothy. "Someone like --?"

"You know Heero's just playing hard to get, don't you? There's really nothing of consequence going on between him and that -- twink."

"Twi--?" Relena cut herself off sharply. "You do realize Milliardo is marrying a man, right? You might want to refrain from using words like that --."

"-- even if they're true?" Dorothy finished for her.

"True or not -- it's a vulgar term, Dorothy -- and beneath you," Relena said stiffly. "Furthermore, if what I saw this morning was any indication, Heero's more serious about Duo than you think."

"What you saw?" Dorothy demanded, practically drooling with curiosity. "Pray tell -- share with me, 'Lena."

"I'd rather not," Relena sniffed, turning her face away. "But it was sufficient to convince me Heero's not -- available. And furthermore --."

"Furthermore nothing!" Dorothy blurted. "You can't give up so easily, Relena." She closed her hand around Relena's arm, gripping tightly. "You said you wanted five minutes alone with Heero sometime this weekend, right?"

"Well, yes, but --."

"You'll get it. Trust me. Just leave it all up to Silvia and me, and you'll have your five minutes. Maybe even more. Just promise that you won't waste the time, once I arrange it."

Relena frowned in confusion. "I'm not sure I follow you --."

"Few people can, dear," Dorothy said with a sly grin. "Just, be ready for your opportunity to arrive."

Relena's gaze went to the front of the chapel, settling on Heero's face. The Japanese man was looking back towards Duo, a soft look in his eyes and a trace of a smile on his lips, and the princess gave a wistful sigh.

Dorothy followed her glance, and then looked back at her with determination gleaming in her eyes. "Don't worry, Relena. Sil and I will make this happen for you."

She released her friend's arm, and stalked away, plans churning in her head. As she passed the back row of seats, she nodded politely to Duo, before slamming out the doors and looking around for her partner in crime, Silvia.

The other woman was outside, directing the royal gardeners, who were smoothing the mulch on the flower beds. "No -- not so much there!" Silvia snipped. "It looks lopsided. Do try to get this right. Do you know how many newspaper photographers will be here?"

The gardeners spared her rather sullen glances and pretended to follow her instructions, while actually doing exactly what Relena had written in her earlier ones.

"Silvia," Dorothy said, catching her arm. "We've got to move on the Heero/Relena issue. And soon. I can't stand to see her like this; she's positively pining."

"What shall we do?"

"You stick with Relena and the wedding party, no matter what. I have to get Alex alone for a few minutes and remind him of a few blackmail photos I never got rid of. He'll do as I tell him, or be forcefully reminded that some mistakes can't be erased."

"Dorothy! That sounds positively evil," Silvia gasped. Then she gave a conspiratorial smirk. "I love it."

"Of course you do," Dorothy said smugly. "Now, be a dear and go inside. I need to make a call."

When the tedious and time-consuming rehearsal ended, it was already past noon, and the members of the wedding party headed out to the limousines for the ride back to the palace.

Heero stopped by the pew where Duo had been seated, watching the braided man stand and stretch. "Ready to go get some lunch?"

"Sure am!" came the enthusiastic reply.

"Good, because Milliardo mentioned Quatre and Trowa are flying in soon, and I volunteered us to fetch them from the airport. You up for a drive, and a stop for take-out?"

"In the limo?"

Heero shook his head, smirking and holding up a set of keys. "Milliardo's Bentley."

"Oooooh," Duo purred. "You bet I'm up for that."

Heero held out a hand, and Duo took it, a sort of disbelieving smile on his face. "This is kinda weird," he said quietly, as they walked toward the exit. "Feels like stepping into a fairy tale -- flying across the world and falling into the arms of a gorgeous guy." He shook his head. "I keep wondering when I'm gonna wake up."

"You are awake," Heero said firmly. "And so am I -- for the first time ever, I think."

"You romantic sap," Duo chuckled, bumping his shoulder into Heero's as they walked.

A short while later, after riding in the limo back to the palace, they were flying down the road in Milliardo's luxury convertible.

Heero had one hand on the wheel, and the other clutching Duo's hand. He felt like a kid on his first date, and found that he really liked the sensation.

"What's the goofy grin for?" Duo asked, leaning in close to be heard over the rush of the wind.

"Just enjoying life," Heero asserted. "You want fast food, or healthy?"

Duo's gaze dropped to Heero's lap, and a perfectly devilish smirk touched his lips. "Why can't I have both?"

"Duo!"

"What?" came an innocent-sounding response. "I heard it was very high in protein -- and we are traveling pretty fast --."

"Do not even go there!" Heero warned, a deep blush on his windblown cheeks. "If I wrap Mill's car around a telephone pole, he will absolutely demand an explanation!"

"Tell him you had a problem with your shifter --."

Heero glared briefly at him. "And you called me a tease?"

Duo smiled serenely. "Yes, but I never said I wasn't."

They arrived safely at the airport, after a brief stop at a sandwich shop, and waited by the curb for Quatre and Trowa to emerge from the terminal.

"What're you gonna tell 'em?" Duo asked, finishing up his drink and tossing the empty into a trash can next to the building.

"Who?"

"Your friends that we're picking up."

"What am I going to tell them about what?"

"Us, Yuy. You and me." Duo gestured between them. "First off, they don't know about the mix-up with Miss Winner, do they?"

"No. I haven't talked to Quatre since we got here."

"Then they have no idea you're going to have a male date for the wedding, let alone that we'll be seeing each other when we get back home." He looked shyly up from under his bangs. "You still wanna do that, right?"

"Of course I do," came the quick, decisive reply.

"Then you better figure out what you're going to tell them."

"I'll think of something," Heero said with a shrug. "Maybe I can explain it during the drive -- kind of let them down easy."

Duo snorted. "You do that."

"There they are now." Heero pointed to two men just emerging from the terminal with their suitcases in hand.

"Wow," Duo murmured. "First Milliardo and now these two. Do you know anyone who isn't gorgeous?"

"I never gave it much thought," Heero shrugged. But he frowned a little as Duo's eyes followed the pair. "Thinking of trading up?"

Duo spun to face him, looking shocked at the very suggestion. "Hell no!" he said vehemently. "First off, it's not just your looks that interest me, you know. And secondly, I'm pretty sure 'trading up' would be impossible."

He grinned at the brilliant blush that suffused Heero's face. "You're adorable when you're embarrassed."

Quatre and Trowa were within earshot by then, and both stopped in their tracks, staring at Duo and Heero.

Heero rolled his eyes, and then walked over and firmly yanked the suitcase from Quatre's hand. "Nice to see you. How was your flight? By the way, meet Duo Maxwell, the 'date' your sister mistakenly procured for me, who is now my boyfriend."

Duo burst out laughing at their pole-axed expressions, doubling over against the side of the sleek car. "God, 'Ro! Way to let 'em down easy!"

Heero stuffed the suitcase into the open trunk, and held out a hand towards Trowa, wiggling his fingers impatiently until the auburn-haired man handed over his bag as well.

"Heero --?" Quatre murmured hesitantly, glancing at Trowa as if seeking assistance. "Could you -- repeat that?"

"You heard 'im, blondie," Duo said with a teasing grin. "I was the stand-in for your sick sister, and ended up in way over my head with your hot friend here." He held out a hand. "Duo Maxwell. And you are --?"

"Qu-Quatre Winner," came the stammered response, as they shook hands.

There was a chuckle from beside him, and the other man offered a hand as well. "Trowa Barton. And believe me, it is a pleasure to meet someone who could sweep Heero Yuy off his ever-so solid feet!"

Chapter Fifteen

It took most of the drive back to the palace for Quatre and Trowa to sort things out. But by the time they pulled up at the front steps, they had a pretty good handle on the situation.

"Don't worry about the reception," Quatre was saying, having regained his poise shortly after the second repetition of the story. "I'm sure I can arrange for Duo to be seated with Trowa and me, if he isn't already. We'll keep him company until you finish the wedding party formalities and can join us."

"I'd be grateful," Heero said with a sigh, parking the car and popping the trunk, just as a valet scooted out to take over, and a footman arrived for the suitcases.

He climbed out and tossed the keys to the valet, as the others also disembarked. "Tell Milliardo it pulls a little to the right once you get it over a hundred."

"A hundred?!" the valet squeaked in horror.

Heero winked teasingly. "Didn't go anywhere near that fast -- but you can have fun watching his expression when you relay the message," he offered.

The man tried to suppress a grin and ended up smirking instead. "Very good, sir," he said with a touch to the brim of his hat, as he slid behind the wheel.

Then the car was pulling away, the attendants were taking Quatre and Trowa's suitcases to their room, and the four men were once again on their own.

"So," Duo said, toying with his braid in what Heero had come to recognize as a nervous gesture. "What's on the agenda for the rest of tonight?"

"The rehearsal dinner," Heero reminded him. "You're invited with me, and Mill told me to make sure Quatre and Trowa didn't try to plead exhaustion and skip out on it."

"Damn," Trowa mumbled quietly. "There goes that excuse."

"What?" Duo asked with a grin. "You don't like fancy meals in glittery palaces with hoards of people you don't know?"

"Got it in one," Trowa chuckled.

"I can see you two are going to hit it off just fine," Quatre said dryly. "Trowa, we'll need to get to our room and freshen up. Heero, exactly what time is this meal we're not permitted to skip?"

"Six."

"We've got two hours." Quatre ran a hand back through his travel-mussed hair. "I, for one, could use a shower."

"Naw," Duo urged. "Try the Jacuzzi. It'll loosen up those stiff muscles in no time."

Quatre shared a glance with Trowa, and smirked indulgently. "Yes, Duo," he acknowledged. "But we'd never make it to dinner on time if we did that."

He strode off with his auburn-haired lover grinning in his wake, leaving Duo slack-jawed behind them.

Heero laughed at his stunned look. "What? You thought just because he looked all sweet and innocent that he really was?"

"Well -- yeah."

"He's a lawyer, Duo. A courtroom shark. Trust me -- he's about as innocent as -- well -- as you are." He slipped an arm around one of Duo's, ushering him towards the door.

"I'm innocent," Duo protested in a wounded tone.

Heero snorted.

"I am!" Duo asserted. "At least -- sometimes."

"I'm sure you are," came a rather patronizing response.

"Really!"

"Yes, Duo."

"You're being sarcastic, aren't you?"

"No, Duo."

"Yeah you are. You still are."

"Never."

"And since when did you want to have the last word?"

"I don't."

"Do so."

Heero fought down a laugh, but couldn't resist mumbling, "Do not." And with a frustrated huff, Duo gave up the battle and let him have that round, much to Heero's satisfaction.

The dinner went much as expected, with introductions all around for the new arrivals, and then the trading of stories about careers and family, as well as noteworthy news.

Heero was a bit too enthralled with watching Duo's expressions as the braided man bantered with his best friends, to pay any attention to the food or the rest of the company. He was simply captivated by the ease with which his -- boyfriend -- fit in.

It made his heart swell with pride, even as he breathed a sigh of relief that Duo would easily slip into his circle of friends once they got back home.

"Hey, is there a restroom anywhere closer than the guest quarters?" Trowa asked Heero in a quiet undertone.

Duo grinned triumphantly. "I'll show you!" he piped up proudly. "It was part of the tour." He excused himself along with Trowa, and the two headed for the nearest facility.

"So -- you're really serious about him," Quatre spoke up quietly, shifting his chair a bit closer to Heero's.

Heero nodded.

"This isn't just a temporary vacation thing?"

"No," Heero said with a scowl. "You know I'm not like that!"

Quatre smiled patiently. "Of course I do. But it's all a bit -- sudden. I'm wondering if, once you're back to work -- to reality -- you'll have second thoughts." He saw Heero preparing to launch a retort, and held up a hand. "I only ask, because from what I've seen of Duo, he's very enamored of you." His forehead creased with worry.

Heero's annoyance dissolved into shock, as he realized Quatre's intentions were the opposite of what he'd thought. "You're afraid I'll hurt him?"

Quatre gave a little shrug. "He's a very nice guy, is all. And I wouldn't want either of you to get hurt."

Heero smiled and shook his head. "So he's charmed the socks off you, too?"

The blonde blushed slightly. "And he's well on his way to being one of Trowa's best pals as well, I think." He gave his friend a teasing grin. "You sure stumbled across something special."

"I'm more aware of that than you seem to think," Heero said firmly. "Trust me, Quatre. I'll take things slowly and sensibly. I won't mess this up."

"I never thought you would," came the warm reply, even as Quatre shook his head in amazement.

Who could have imagined the cool, reserved Heero Yuy falling so precipitously in love? But obviously, he'd done just that.

Trowa arrived back at the table, sliding into his seat and giving Quatre's hand a brief squeeze of greeting.

"Where's Duo?" Heero asked, looking past the other man.

"I'd tell you he fell in, just to yank your chain," Trowa joked. "But he'll be here in a second. He stopped to talk to some guy he knew."

"Some guy?" Heero asked sharply.

"Alex something --."

Heero stood to leave, but paused when he saw Duo walk in alongside Alex, looking perfectly fine.

The braided man said something to Heero's old rival, and then headed straight for the table, giving Heero a puzzled look as he neared. "Are we leaving?"

"Uh -- no," Heero replied, darting a suspicious look after Alex. "Trowa said --." He paused, not sure how to phrase his concern.

"Your old school chum just wanted to apologize for making an ass of himself at the bachelor party," Duo assured him, taking his seat, and gesturing Heero to do the same.

Heero sat down slowly, trying to refrain from glaring across the room at Alex, even as he wondered what the bastard was up to.

He didn't believe for one moment that Alex had been drunk at the bachelor party -- at least not when he propositioned Duo. Nor did he believe the man was sorry for his words, or actions.

"What the fuck is he up to?" Heero muttered, automatically tracking Alex in his peripheral vision for the rest of the meal.

Despite Heero's suspicions, the meal concluded uneventfully, and the guests scattered to other occupations. Some headed for the gaming rooms or spa, while most of those in the wedding party went to their rooms to lay out their formal wear and get a good night's sleep.

For their part, Quatre and Trowa said good evening to Duo and Heero at the door to their room, promising to meet them first thing in the morning, so Duo wouldn't be on his own when his boyfriend left with the wedding party.

"They're nice," Duo said warmly, as Heero opened the door to their room. "How long have you been friends?"

"Hm -- with Quatre, since grade school. And with Trowa, since he and Quatre started dating." He flipped on the lights and closed the door, turning to find Duo standing just a bit inside his personal space. "Yes?" he asked, with a feigned look of innocence. "Was there something you wanted?"

"You could say that," Duo said slyly, catching him by the tie and pulling him closer. "It's been hours and hours since I got to do more than hold your hand, Yuy. I think I'm suffering from withdrawal."

Heero raised an eyebrow, playing the "straight man." "Withdrawal from what?" he wondered.

"Your kisses," Duo breathed, so close now that their lips were almost touching. "Think you could help me with that?"

"I'm sure something can be arranged --," Heero began, only to be cut off in mid-sentence by a very thorough, very intense kiss.

He found himself nearly breathless when the kiss ended, and clutching Duo's shoulders as if needing the support to keep his balance.

But then, he'd been off balance since meeting the dynamic man -- so why should now be any different?

"We should get some sleep," he said in a husky voice, releasing the lean shoulders and willing his body to relax its response to the proximity of the handsome escort.

"Yeah," Duo said with a sigh, moving away with apparent reluctance. "Got a long day tomorrow, don't we?"

"Yes, we do."

"And then the next day, the fantasy's over, an' it's back to the States for us -- back to reality." Duo said it in a flat tone, his back to Heero as he began to undress for bed.

"I prefer to think of that as a new beginning," Heero said reassuringly.

Duo spared him a grateful glance over one shoulder. "Charmer."

Heero snorted at the absurdity of the thought. One thing he'd never been called before was charming. But then, there was a first time for everything.

"I hope you're not planning to go back to sleeping on the couch," Duo added, turning down the comforter.

"Not if you're willing to share the bed," Heero replied, proud of how steady his voice sounded. "Platonically, of course."

"And if it's not so platonic?"

"I guess I'm willing to take my chances."

Duo chuckled in a low, warm tone that sent shivers down Heero's spine, and climbed under the thick blanket. "Then come on in," he suggested invitingly.

Chapter Sixteen

Heero woke to the delicious sensation of a warm body wrapped around his, legs intertwined, and chestnut head nestled on his shoulder. He decided he could get used to that very quickly.

"Morning already?" came a sleepy voice as Heero sighed in contentment.

"Afraid so," he admitted, peeling one eye open to glance at the bedside clock. "And it looks like it's time to get up and get ready."

"Five more minutes?" Duo pleaded, snuggling closer.

"Well --."

"C'mon -- let's wait until the maid comes for us again --," Duo begged, his warm breath tickling the fine hairs on the side of Heero's neck.

"That was Relena," Heero reminded him. "And it was probably one of the single most embarrassing moments of my life."

Duo chuckled teasingly. "Aw, you haven't been around me long enough," he warned. "I've been way more embarrassed than that."

"I don't think I want to know." Heero ended the speculative conversation by shifting so he could reach Duo's lips for a lingering kiss.

"Mmmm --." Duo hummed happily, entwining their bodies a little more intricately -- something involving Heero's knee between Duo's legs, and one of Duo's calves draped around Heero's, bringing them into even closer contact. "Skip th' wedding?" he suggested hopefully.

"Wish we could --."

There was a tap on the door, much like the previous day; but it didn't open to admit a blonde-haired princess this time.

"Wake up call!" came a maid's cheery voice. "Mister Yuy?"

"I'm awake Marie," he called back. "Thank you."

"Breakfast will be served in one hour," she replied, before pattering off down the hall.

"You heard the woman," Heero said firmly to his bedmate.

"Doesn't mean I want to listen to her," Duo pouted, making Heero be the one to forcefully disentangle them so they could get up.

"I promise you," Heero said, leaning over and brushing wisps of loose hair from Duo's face. "We will pick this up where we left off -- in the very near future."

"Yeah?"

"Yeah." He stole another all-too-brief kiss. "I don't think I'm going to have the self-control to wait."

"Good. How 'bout I meet you right back here tonight around, say, eight?"

"It's a date."

They got down to business then, taking quick showers -- separately because it would save time, according to Duo, who swore that if he had Heero, limitless warm water, and soap all together in one place, he might never leave -- and then dressing for the big event.

Less than an hour later, they were making their way downstairs along with the other guests and members of the wedding party, including Quatre and Trowa, who kept exchanging the most annoyingly knowing looks, in Heero's opinion.

He just knew he'd let himself in for some serious teasing, once they got home and back to work. Life at the office with Quatre was probably never going to be the same.

"Listen up, people!" Dorothy called, entering the dining room and clapping her hands for attention. "As soon as everyone's had a bite to eat, we'll need the wedding party to assemble at the front steps for the limousines to take you over to the chapel. Guests will have an hour after that before their transportation begins. The wedding will be promptly at eleven, followed by the reception here in the grand ballroom and gardens."

Duo leaned in closer to him. "Drill sergeant, isn't she?"

"She likes to be in charge," Heero conceded. "She was always a bossy little -- uhm -- person."

Duo chuckled. "Careful. Wouldn't want to jeopardize those Jacuzzi privileges." He smirked teasingly. "Especially since I'm on my best behavior so I can share it with you."

"Tease."

"Just call it incentive."

They ate a quick breakfast, and all too soon Heero was off to fulfill his groomsman obligations, leaving Duo in Quatre and Trowa's keeping.

Ordinarily, Heero would have enjoyed the spectacle of Milliardo's wedding. But having recently fallen head over heels, he was a bit distracted throughout the lavish ceremony. He kept stealing glances at the packed audience, hoping for a glimpse of his long-haired boyfriend, only to be disappointed.

He did manage to focus on the proceedings enough to indulge in a warm smile when he saw the expression on Milliardo's face as he slipped the ring onto Wufei's finger. But then he was envisioning himself in his friend's place, and Duo in Wufei's, and he nearly caught his breath at the choking rush of emotion.

He hadn't known Duo nearly long enough to be thinking like that, and yet between the romantic atmosphere, and the adrenaline flowing through his veins, he could hardly avoid it.

The final pronouncement of marriage woke him from the half-formed fantasy, and he clapped along with the rest of the guests as Milliardo and Wufei shared a very public and very beautiful kiss.

Then there was the final procession, followed by the receiving line and what seemed like a million pictures, and at long last they were in the limo and on their way back to the palace for the reception.

As Heero had known from the start, he was seated with the others from the wedding party; but at least he knew the table where he'd find his friends when things began to wind down.

With that comforting thought in mind, he was able to enjoy the grand splendor of the Peacecraft ballroom. Bedecked in flowers that would have virtually denuded the prized gardens, had they come from that source, the room was spectacular. By not going overboard on garland or glitter, the staff had managed to take simple elegance to a new level.

Of course there was a dance floor in the middle of the huge hall, and with the tables arranged along the perimeter, it left room for many couples.

Heero wondered if he'd dare ask Duo to dance. He'd never enjoyed dancing before, though he could more or less stumble his way through a waltz -- yet another thing he held against Relena. She'd always snagged him in dance class in gym, plastering herself all over him while ignoring the way he squirmed with discomfort.

Oh God! What if she expected him to dance with her here? And with the weekend so close to being over!

If they danced, she'd no doubt talk -- and he'd have to listen. He wasn't sure he could stand another "wouldn't we be a lovely couple" talk; especially now that Duo and he really were a couple.

Relena would just have to deal with the truth, if it came to that.

By the time the toasts had been made, and the happy couple had done the cake-cutting and the obligatory first dance, Heero was ready to make his break for Quatre and Trowa's table.

He could see Relena, deep in conversation with Dorothy, so he smoothly excused himself from the table and slipped into the fringes of the tables to make his way down to where he thought his friends would be.

But when he got there, he found only Quatre and Trowa, sipping after-dinner wine and chatting with another couple who'd been assigned to the same table.

"Where's Duo?" he asked without preamble.

Quatre looked up and gave a derisive snort. "Nice to see you, too," he chided.

"That's not what I --."

Heero stopped trying to explain, when Trowa broke in with a laugh. "It's okay. We understand your obsession, Yuy. We were young and in love once, too."

Quatre mock-scowled at him. "What do you mean were, Trowa Barton?"

"Oops! Are! I meant are!"

"Now you'll have to dance with me again to make it up to me," Quatre sniffed, trying not to smirk as he gave his lover the ultimatum.

Trowa stood and offered his arm, which Quatre obligingly took. But Heero stopped them before they could swan away.

"Ahem. I believe I left a gorgeous brunette in your care," he reminded them. "Are you going to tell me what's become of him before you waltz off? Or am I going to have to chase you across the dance floor?"

"As amusing as that would be," Trowa said dryly. "No. Your beloved Duo went to the bathroom to get a bit of wine off his shirt."

"Wine?"

"Silvia was making the rounds," Trowa explained. "And she slipped on a wet tile or something -- spilled an entire glass of red wine all over Duo's white shirt. He went to rinse it before it could stain."

"Club soda would have worked better," Quatre piped up. "I'm sure the kitchen staff would have been able to find him some."

"Yes, but the bathroom was closer, and Duo didn't want to wander around. Although --." Trowa glanced at his watch. "He has been gone quite a while. Wouldn't surprise me if he got lost; I know I would've if he hadn't been there to show me the way yesterday."

"The bathroom?" Heero asked, already looking towards the exit. "I'll go find him."

"You do that," Quatre called after his departing friend. "God forbid he make an unattended pit stop!"

Heero barely heard him, his attention focused on watching for a slim, braided figure in the sea of people, as he made his way towards the hallway leading to the bathrooms.

"Heero, dear!"

He froze as a bejeweled figure intercepted him. "Yes, Silvia?"

"Looking for your lovely little boytoy?" she asked sweetly.

"I'm looking for Duo," he said in a frigid tone. "He's not a toy, of any sort!"

She put a dainty, gloved hand over her mouth. "I beg your pardon! I was just teasing a bit, love. No insult intended."

"Perhaps you should think before speaking next time," he suggested with a deadly glare. "Now if you'll excuse me --."

"Oh -- not that way!" Silvia said sharply, catching his arm and turning him in the direction of the gardens. "He went this way."

"Why? The last I heard you'd spilled wine on him and he had to clean it off," Heero snapped irritably.

"Yes, but the main bathrooms are terribly full. He'd have had to wait in line until the stain was practically dried on for good! He said he'd just cut across the garden and head for the kitchen."

Heero hesitated for a second, and then figured he might as well check out the kitchen, as Silvia suggested. If Duo wasn't there, he could always detour to the bathrooms on the way back.

Duo had been more or less able to get rid of the unsightly red stain on his dress shirt. But blotting out the dampness had taken a bit longer. He couldn't very well return to the formal reception in a soggy shirt.

When at last he stepped out of the bathroom, he nearly bumped headlong into Dorothy. "Oh, excuse me!"

"No need, dear. Not at all," Dorothy purred, catching his arm with hers. "As a matter of fact, I was looking for you."

"For me?"

"Yes, of course," she said scoldingly. "Why dear one, you must know how fond I am of you?"

He blinked in surprise. "Um, actually, no." He glanced around them a bit warily. "I mean, you've been very nice -- don't get me wrong. But I hardly know you. So I certainly wouldn't expect you to be fond of me, as you say."

"But I am!" she asserted. "And I tried to tell you before -- about Heero -- his, well, bad habits."

"Look, Miss Catalonia --."

"Dorothy, dear. Just Dorothy." She tugged at his arm, pulling him towards the hallway that led from the ballroom to the garden. "And you must believe I have only your best interests in mind, when I tell you Heero is just no good for you!"

"Okay -- this bullshit stops now!" Duo asserted, jerking his arm free and planting his feet. "Stop badmouthing him, and stop trying to drive a wedge between us. It won't work."

"I'm not trying anything," Dorothy assured him. "I'm just hoping to open your eyes, and protect you from getting in any deeper." She frowned intently. "Heero has been trying all weekend to set up a tryst with Relena. I know this for a fact. And just moments ago, I saw them slipping off to the garden together."

"I find that hard to believe --."

"Believe it!" she ordered. "And if you won't take my word for it, perhaps you'll believe your own eyes."

Duo crossed his arms stubbornly.

"Just take a little stroll down this hall," she suggested. "Peek around the corner, and you'll see what I mean."

Duo narrowed his expressive eyes at her, wondering what she thought he'd find. He knew Heero had absolutely no intention of letting Relena get him by himself, let alone setting up a romantic tryst.

Dorothy waved a hand dismissively. "Go take a look!" she urged. "Or don't. It's entirely up to you." She made a motion as if dusting off her hands. "I'm through trying to help you, if you won't even help yourself. I wash my hands of you."

She turned and stalked regally back towards the ballroom.

Duo hesitated, looking from her retreating form to the hallway leading to the gardens.

"No harm in looking," he finally shrugged, figuring once he'd humored the psychotic bitch, he could laugh in her face and put the incident behind him.

Chapter Seventeen

As Heero reached the entrance to the garden, he paused, seeing Relena there amid the blossoming roses.

"Heero!" She greeted him with a warm smile, setting aside the rose she'd been admiring, and strolling out to meet him, her long gown swirling around her ankles.

He frowned, suddenly suspicious. Silvia had been the one who told him Duo headed this way, when the bathrooms were in the other. And now Relena was waiting here? It couldn't be a coincidence; he'd been set up.

"I'm glad you finally came to talk," she said with a sigh.

Fuck! Here it was -- the conversation he'd been dreading from the start -- hoping to avoid completely.

"I was beginning to think we'd never have a moment to ourselves."

He took a step back, tempted to just turn and run. But aside from being impossible to explain, it would be a cowardly way out of an uncomfortable situation.

"Actually," he said quickly, hoping maybe Duo would show up to save him again if he just babbled long enough. "I was out here looking for Duo. He seems to have gotten lost on his way to the restrooms, and Silvia thought he headed this way. If you see him could you just let him know I'm looking for him? Tell him I'll wait by the table, and --."

"Heero, shut up!" she snapped, rendering him silent.

She faced him, both hands on her hips, and a fierce look in her blue eyes. "Heero Yuy, I have been trying all weekend to get you alone for five minutes! You have dodged me, evaded me, sidestepped me, and been borderline rude to me! Why?"

He winced at her sharp tone. "I -- didn't want to hurt your feelings or anything --."

"Hurt my feelings? Don't you think avoiding me qualifies?"

"Maybe?" he hazarded.

She gave an unladylike snort, and then began to chuckle. "You are so transparent." She shook her head. "You think I'm still interested in you, don't you?"

He blinked. "Um, yes?"

"What an ego!" she said with a grin.

"Hey --you were the one who followed me to college," he reminded her.

"I know," she conceded, her expression softening a bit. "And while it was pretty obvious you didn't want a romantic relationship with me, I always felt like you were at least a friend. I mean, when we were kids, and you were Mill's best friend, we were able to talk about things, weren't we?"

"I guess so," Heero admitted, recalling that before Relena had developed a romantic interest in him, he had thought of her as a friend.

"I suppose I kind of ruined that when I got a crush on you, didn't I?"

"It would have been hard to remain friends at that point," he agreed.

"And now?"

"Now?"

"Now that you have a significant other, and I realize that you are off limits, don't you think we can be friends again?"

He eyed her warily. "Maybe. If that's all it is." He wondered if this was some elaborate plan to weasel her way into his affections.

She laughed gaily. "As I said -- that ego of yours knows no bounds! Heero Yuy, I am not interested in you romantically."

"You aren't?"

"No. As a matter of fact, I wanted to tell you -- before I even tell Milliardo or anyone else -- I'm engaged!" She pulled a chain out from under the neckline of her dress, and showed him the ring dangling on the end of it.

He stared, slack-jawed. "You're engaged?"

"Duh!" she teased.

"Since when?"

"Six months now."

"And why didn't you tell anyone?" he asked accusingly.

"Because with Mill's wedding plans, I didn't want to overshadow anything," she explained. "It was tough enough for him to get the Council to agree to his same-sex wedding. They went on about having an heir to the throne and stuff, until I think he and Wufei almost called it all off. If I waltzed in and announced my engagement, they'd have tried to play that up and tell the whole world that the Peacecraft name would live on, or some such political bullshit! I didn't want to muddy up the waters. Mill and Wufei deserve their moment, don't you think?"

"Well, yeah," Heero said breathlessly, amazed at her sensitivity. She was clearly not the immature princess he'd known back in high school. "That's -- damned considerate of you, Relena."

She smiled patiently. "I like to think so. Didn't know I had it in me?"

He gave a genuine frown of dismay, feeling guilty as hell. "Honestly, I didn't. And I apologize for underestimating you."

"Accepted," she replied, her face lighting up.

"So -- why tell me first?" Heero asked hesitantly.

"Oh, I have my reasons," she said with a bit of a sigh. "Doro and Sil would blab it to the world, you know. And Mill had too much on his mind, of course." She stepped closer, laying a hand on his arm. "You, on the other hand, were always someone I felt I could confide in. When you agreed to come to the wedding, I was both excited and nervous. I wanted to tell you about my fiance, so you'd know I grew out of my silly crush. I hoped that maybe we could go back to being friends like we'd once been. But then, Dorothy made some comments that led me to believe maybe you'd changed your mind and were interested in me, and I was hesitant to hurt your feelings --." She gave a little shrug. "But when I saw the way you looked at Duo, I realized I needn't worry about that. You've obviously found your soulmate, too."

Heero felt a blush warm his cheeks. "Well, I don't know that I'd call him my --." He paused, unable to say the word, and wondering if she could possibly be right. "Why do you think that?" he asked.

"It's obvious," she assured him. "You look at him the way I look at Edward."

"So," he commented, regaining a bit of his composure. "Your knight in shining armor is named Edward?"

She gave him an impish grin. "You'll always be my knight, Heero," she reminded him, referring back to the time in grade school that he'd beat up a bully who was tormenting her. "But he's my prince charming!" Her eyes were shining now. "And I owe it to you that I even met him. If you had returned my affections back then, I would never have had the chance to look further -- to meet someone so perfect for me. As wonderful as you are, I don't think we'd ever have been truly compatible; in fact, I know it. So -- thank you for keeping me from letting a silly obsession prevent me from seeking out the love of my life."

"You're -- very welcome." He looked down at the ring, sparkling against the front of her dress, and a warm smile touched his lips. "Relena -- congratulations." He bent to place a kiss on her cheek, and she threw her arms around his neck, hugging him tightly.

"Thank you," she whispered in his ear. "Thank you so much."

Neither of them noticed the slender, tuxedo-clad figure peek around a corner at the far end of the corridor, watch for a long moment, and then turn away and disappear into the shadows.

Duo made his way quickly through the crowded ballroom, eyes downcast, only to be collared by Dorothy just before he'd have made his escape.

"So --?" she asked in a silky tone, catching his arm and tugging him off to the side. "Was I not right?"

He looked up, and the tears in his eyes glittered in the light from the elegant chandeliers. "You were right," he admitted in a husky voice.

She grinned victoriously, clapping her hands together. "You see? Heero and Relena have always been meant for one another."

Silvia appeared at her elbow, and took hold of Duo's hands, casting a scolding look at her friend. "Don't be heartless, Doro," she chided. "Can't you see how this is affecting poor Duo?"

He jerked his hands free, glaring. "Just leave me alone," he growled. "I don't need your patronizing attitudes."

Silvia looked stung, blinking her eyes in a semblance of innocence. "I never meant to be patronizing," she said.

"That's my specialty," Dorothy cut in with a smirk.

Duo turned away and headed for the exit, but two sets of high heels clattered along after him. He paused and turned back with a scowl. "What do you want?" he demanded.

Dorothy and Silvia exchanged a look, and then Silvia fumbled in her purse. "Why, to help you, of course," Dorothy said smoothly.

Silvia held out some folded bills. "Cab fare, dear. So you can put this all behind you." She looked up with a sly gleam in her eyes. "If you hurry, you can get to the airport and catch a flight out tonight."

"There's nothing available until tomorrow," he said bitterly.

"Well then -- a hotel room," Dorothy suggested. "You can have a bit of privacy for tonight, and perhaps there'll be a cancellation so you won't be stuck traveling with -- him." She laid a gentle hand on his arm. "You poor dear. I truly feel for you."

He flinched under her touch, and then quickly grabbed the money Silvia was holding out, and bolted out the door.

Dorothy grinned evilly at her cohort. "Worked like a charm," she cooed.

"Absolutely."

"And once Alex does his part, even if Heero has second thoughts about Relena, he won't dirty his hands on the little whore again."

"Alex?" asked Silvia, looking less thrilled. "What's he got to do with this?"

"Never you mind, dear," Dorothy said soothingly, gliding back into the ballroom without a backwards glance.

Duo walked briskly along the sidewalk, one hand clutching Silvia's money, and the other clenched into a fist.

The nearest hotel was apparently a long hike from the royal palace, and not a single cab had passed during the twenty minutes the braided man had been walking. But it was just as well, for the cool night air had a calming effect.

Then a sleek sports car drew alongside, and a too-familiar voice called out. "Duo -- is that you?"

He glanced over a shoulder without breaking stride. "Go away, Alex."

The car continued to parallel his course. "What's the matter?"

"None of your business. Now buzz off!"

Alex pulled ahead, and then parked, hopping out and jogging to intercept. "Duo, please! You look upset. What's the matter?"

Duo stopped, rolling his eyes in exasperation. "Nothing that concerns you. So why don't you just go on back to the reception and leave me alone?"

"No." Alex stepped closer, frowning in concern. "I saw you run out, and I knew something was wrong. So please, tell me what it is."

Duo gave a cocky toss of his head. "Didn't like the shrimp cocktail," he quipped. "And it was a boring party. Now, you wanna get out of my way?"

"Where are you running off to?"

Heaving a sigh, Duo put both hands on his hips. "What's it to you?"

Alex started to reach out a hand, only to pause when he saw the other man tense. "I told you before -- I find you very attractive. Is it so hard to believe I care?"

Duo snorted. "Yeah, I've heard that before."

"What happened back at the reception?"

"Again -- nothing that concerns you." Duo started to step around him, and Alex reached out and caught his arm. "Let go of me!" Duo snapped.

"Only if you let me help!" Alex retorted.

"You can't!" Duo jerked away, turning to face him. "Just leave me alone."

"To do what?"

"To get on the earliest possible flight out of this godforsaken country that I can find."

"I can help."

Duo scowled at him.

"I can drive you to the airport," Alex said evenly.

Hesitation. And then, "You'd do that?"

"Of course." Alex took a step back, raising his hands halfway. "I'm not trying anything here. Just offering -- as a friend -- to give you a ride."

Duo paused, frowning skeptically, clearly recalling Alex's prior attempt at seduction.

"A ride. That's all."

The braided man sighed and nodded. "Thanks," he mumbled, shoulders slumping in defeat.

"C'mon," Alex said gently, opening the car door and gesturing Duo in.

When Duo had climbed in and secured his seatbelt, Alex walked around to the other side.

"No luggage?" he asked as he slid behind the driver's seat.

"I didn't go back for it," Duo admitted.

"You'll need your plane ticket and passport, won't you?"

"Fuck."

"Don't worry. You can send for it once you reach the airport," Alex assured him. "Call the palace and ask the staff manager to have your bag brought to you."

"They'd do that?"

"Of course. Nothing but the best for royalty," Alex said with a grin. "And the staff is expected to cater to guests."

He started up the car and pulled away from the curb.

They drove for awhile in silence, before Duo pulled his gaze from the darkened scenery and looked at his rescuer. "Thank you."

"You're welcome." Alex hid his smirk by glancing in the side mirror. "Any chance you'll tell me what happened back there?"

"No."

"That's okay."

Another few miles passed in silence, and then Duo frowned as they bypassed an exit on the highway. "I thought the airport was that way --."

"There are plenty of ways to get there," Alex shrugged. "Thought I'd take the less congested route."

Duo looked around them at the empty highway. "Congested? We're like the only car on the road."

"Yes, but closer to the airport that won't be the case."

"Oh."

More time passed, and Alex flicked on the radio, tuning in some quiet music. And he watched out of the corner of his eye as Duo gradually relaxed against the back of the seat and half-closed his eyes in weariness.

But when they pulled into the darkened parking lot of a seedy-looking hotel, the braided man jerked sharply awake. "What the fuck --?"

Alex threw the car into park, and slid an arm across the back of Duo's seat. "Good idea," he said in a husky voice. "How 'bout we get a nice room for the night, and head for the airport in the morning?"

Duo's eyes widened, and then narrowed viciously. "No way in hell!" he snapped. "D'you think I'm that easy?"

"On the contrary," Alex murmured, edging closer, as Duo fumbled to release his seatbelt. "You've played a hell of a game of hard to get." His hand closed over Duo's on the belt release. "But the game's over now. I know what you do for work -- so all the coy little hesitations can stop now."

"What I do for work?" Duo choked out angrily, straining against his hold.

"You were Yuy's whore -- why shouldn't you be mine?"

"Maybe because I don't want to," Duo snarled. "Get your fuckin' hands off me!"

Alex's grip tightened, and he threw a leg across Duo's, pinning him in the seat. "Scream all you like," he whispered into his ear. "They're used to that around here. No one will care."

Chapter Eighteen

When Heero returned to the ballroom after his garden chat with Relena and a quick, fruitless jaunt to the kitchen and bathrooms, he headed straight for Duo's table, assuming he must have returned there by this time, and wanting to tell him about Relena's little bombshell. She'd given him the go-ahead to tell his "soulmate," as she put it, because she was planning on a formal announcement within the next few days; she was just waiting for her fiance to return from a trip.

But the braided man was nowhere in sight. Instead, Quatre and Trowa were taking a break from dancing and nibbling on a second helping of wedding cake.

"Let me guess --," Trowa spoke up, just as Heero opened his mouth. "Where's Duo?" He smirked devilishly. "That seems to be your favorite line since we got here."

Quatre looked up in surprise. "Isn't Duo with you?"

"Obviously not."

"Where've you been for so long?" Trowa asked.

"Relena wanted to talk, so she dragged me off for a little privacy," Heero said with a smirk.

"Oh. Tough luck," Quatre said with a wince.

"Actually, no, it wasn't," Heero contradicted him. "She wanted to let me know she got over her crush and just wants us to be friends."

"Really?" Quatre's eyebrows rose to his hairline.

"Really."

"And you're -- okay with that?" Trowa asked.

"I'm terrific," Heero grinned back, scanning the room for Duo once again. "Where else might Duo have gone?" he wondered aloud.

"You checked the restroom?" Quatre asked.

"Of course. That's where you sent me. He wasn't there or in the kitchen."

Quatre frowned slightly. "Well, that's odd. Wherever he did go, he should've been back long since."

"D'you suppose he really did get lost?" Trowa asked.

Two sets of snide looks shot his way. "Not funny."

"What?" he said with a blank look. "I wasn't making a joke before. It's a big palace!"

"Maybe you should check your room," Quatre suggested. "He might have gone to change shirts."

"Oh, I'll bet that's it!" Trowa agreed.

"I'll try there next," Heero told them. "If he comes back to the table, make him stay put, hm?"

"We'll sit on him if we have to," Trowa smirked.

"Just ask him to wait for me," came a grumbled response. Then Heero headed towards the main foyer and the stairway leading to the upper levels, where the guest rooms were located.

As he crossed the dance floor, he gave it a quick visual sweep, wondering if Duo might have been coaxed into a waltz or two. He decided if he found him there, he'd cut in, and treat him to one himself.

God, resolving things with Relena had him feeling almost giddy with relief -- and generous because of it.

"Heero, dear," Dorothy said, slipping up and grabbing his arm. "Whyever aren't you dancing with Relena?"

He tugged his arm free. "Because she's not my date," he said flatly.

"Maybe she should be," came the catty response. "Your other one seems to have forgotten who he came with."

"Huh?"

"Your braided wonder slipped off with Alex a little while ago," Dorothy crooned. "But you know, considering his line of work, that's not surprising --."

"His -- what?"

"Line of work, dear," Dorothy said, waving to Relena and beckoning her to join them.

"What do you know about his line of work?" Heero demanded.

Dorothy gave him a truly patronizing look. "Everyone knows, dear," she said in a voice dripping with sympathy. "I'm just appalled that you thought you had to bring a prostitute along to make it look like you'd gotten over Relena. And a male one, at that." She waved a hand airily. "Fortunately, you didn't fool anyone -- least of all Relena. It's so sweet that the two of you can finally be together."

"Wait. What? A prostitute?" Heero blurted, disregarding the shocked glances that turned their way. "Duo's not a prostitute."

"Oh, I know, they call them escorts," Dorothy said breezily. "What a lovely euphemism."

"He is an escort," Heero said icily, barely sparing Relena a glance as she arrived at Dorothy's side. "A professional one. And no, he doesn't sleep with clients. He escorts them to formal functions as a friend and companion -- nothing more!"

"Really?" came a skeptical response. "Then the maid didn't see you two sharing a bed -- and a bit more --?"

Heero glared viciously at her. "What Duo does for work has nothing to do with our relationship. Why shouldn't my boyfriend share my bed?"

"Boyfriend?" Dorothy scoffed. "You mean hired hand, don't you?" She smirked at her suggestive play on words. "Or were you a couple before you came here?"

"Dorothy!" came Relena's shocked voice.

Heero raised a hand. "No, it's all right," he said coldly. "As a matter of fact, we weren't a couple before -- not that it's any business of Dorothy's. Duo was simply my escort to the wedding, for reasons I will not go into. But during our stay here, we got to know each other better, and I, at least, came to the realization that I do want to pursue a relationship. A personal one. So anyone who dares to think I paid Duo for sex, had better reevaluate their stance -- right -- fucking -- now!"

Dorothy looked dismayed, her gaze shifting from Heero to Relena and back. "But you want Relena!" she insisted. "You have to want Relena!"

"Why on Earth would he have to do that?" Relena asked with a smirk. "I don't want him."

"What?" Dorothy practically yelled.

"I. Don't. Want. Heero." Relena crossed her arms, staring her friend down.

"But you've always had such a crush on him --!"

"'Had,' being the operative word there," Relena chided. "I got over it long ago."

Dorothy looked quite horrified. "You never said so!" she accused.

"I didn't think I had to," Relena shrugged. "You might have noticed sometime around college graduation that I stopped doodling his name on my papers and sighing longingly." She raised a haughty eyebrow. "But apparently, you weren't paying attention."

"This isn't possible!" Dorothy asserted. "You and Heero are the perfect couple."

"I take exception to that," came another voice, cultured and smooth, as a handsome gentleman wearing a uniform stepped up beside Relena. "Seeing as she's my fiancee."

Relena whirled, her face lighting up. "Edward! You made it!" She threw her arms around his neck, and the tall soldier spun her in a circle before setting her down. Then she proceeded to kiss him senseless right there in front of everyone.

"Who's that?!" Dorothy screeched.

Heero gave a tight smile. "As he said, Relena's fiance." He crossed his arms. "Now, if everyone's satisfied that Relena and I are not a couple -- nor will we ever be -- I have someone of my own to go find."

He swept off, leaving Relena to offer explanations to the gathering crowd, and headed for the exit, wondering if perhaps Duo had gone back to their room.

Silvia caught him as he started up the staircase in the foyer. "Heero! Wait!"

He spared an impatient glance over his shoulder. "For what?" he asked flatly. "I need to see Duo --." He wondered suddenly if Dorothy might have said something to offend his date, and that was why he'd gone missing.

"He's gone," Silvia blurted.

Heero stopped in his tracks, turning to fix a deadly glare on her. "Gone?"

She nodded.

"Why?" he demanded, realizing something was very wrong. "And how do you know that?"

"He saw you and Relena in the hallway," she said hurriedly. "Dorothy made sure of it. And she -- I -- we gave him cab fare."

"Cab fare? Why?" Heero demanded, stalking towards her.

She backed a few steps with a timid squeak. "We thought you and Relena were together --! That if you just had a moment alone, you'd work it all out!" She managed an accusing look of her own. "Why did you kiss her?"

"She told me about her engagement," Heero said in a voice as cold as ice. "I was congratulating her, and sharing a platonic hug, you small-minded bitch. And you and Dorothy apparently used that to scare Duo away!"

"W-we just were looking out for Relena --."

"Did it ever occur to you to ask if she wanted looking out for?" Heero snarled. "I suppose not." He shook his head, dismissing them all. "So he's gone where -- to the airport? I'll just intercept him there and explain it." He hoped Duo would listen to his explanation.

Silvia shook her head, drawing his attention back to her. "Heero -- I. I'm not sure he'll be there. Dorothy said something about Alex doing 'his part.' I don't know what she meant. But he's not here either."

Heero's breath caught in his throat. "Alex?"

He strode back into the ballroom and straight up to Milliardo and Wufei, pushing his way past a duke and duchess who'd been offering their congratulations.

"Mill -- I need a favor," he said urgently.

Milliardo raised an eyebrow, and then nodded a polite dismissal to the visiting dignitaries before ushering Heero aside. "What on Earth is the matter, Yuy?" he asked in an undertone. "I've never seen you like this."

"It's Duo," Heero said, his voice taut with worry. "Dorothy and Silvia set him up to think Relena and I had something going on between us, and he's taken off. I need to find him -- quickly."

Ice blue eyes searched his face. "You're really serious about him, aren't you?"

"Of course I am!" Heero nearly shouted.

"But I thought he was just your escort --."

Heero glared. "How is it that everyone at this goddamned wedding seems to know how Duo ended up with me?"

"Ah -- that would be my fault," came Wufei's timid voice.

All eyes turned to him.

"I overheard the conversation you and Maxwell had, Mill," Wufei admitted. "I was a bit jealous when I realized he was the one you'd mentioned dating in college -- 'the one that got away.' So -- I might have mentioned his line of work to Dorothy at breakfast the other day --."

Milliardo's eyes widened. "'Fei -- he wasn't the one that got away. He escorted me to a few silly social functions, and he was delightful company. I wasn't about to tell you I'd hired an escort back then. So I called him an ex-boyfriend. In reality, he was just a good friend. Nothing more." He touched his husband's blushing cheek gently. "You never had anything to be jealous of."

"No, but he'll have something to be afraid of, if anything's happened to Duo!" Heero swore. "I think Alex went after him."

"Surely he wouldn't --?"

Heero gave Milliardo a long, significant look that only the two of them understood.

"What do you need?" Milliardo asked.

"A car."

"You'll have it." Milliardo took charge like the military man he'd once been, sweeping through the reception and calling for his guards and attendants to search the grounds for Duo or Alex. He also summoned a valet to bring Heero a car and a map of the area between the palace and the airport, in case Duo was somewhere enroute.

Chapter Nineteen

While they were waiting for the car to arrive, Milliardo gathered Quatre and Trowa, as well as Relena and her fiance. He tasked Relena and Wufei with handling the guests, while he and Edward would interrogate Dorothy as to Alex's whereabouts and intentions. Heero volunteered for that task, but the blonde monarch knew better than to allow him near the scheming woman who'd caused so much chaos.

Instead, he put Heero in charge of himself, Trowa and Quatre. As a group, they came up with a search plan, so they wouldn't be wasting time looking in the wrong places, or duplicating their efforts.

They started by calling the airport to see if a Duo Maxwell had shown up looking for a flight out. The first agent they spoke to was less than cooperative, explaining that such information was private. But when they dropped the Peacecraft name, they were given the (ahem) royal treatment. The head of security himself promised to contact them immediately if anyone by that name checked in.

Next, they called the Sanc police, asking them to be on the alert for anyone matching Duo's description who might be on foot somewhere between the palace and the airport.

Then they scanned the map for all possible routes to the airport, and ended up splitting into three separate cars to cover the most possible highways.

By that time, Milliardo had wheedled Alex's cell phone number out of Dorothy, before turning her over to palace security to be held until they determined if there was a crime to which she might end up an accessory.

Silvia told them all she knew, and saved herself a similar fate -- although Milliardo promised he'd be checking to see if it was still an acceptable practice to exile someone from the kingdom for crimes against the crown.

Had Heero been there to see her face drain of color, and to watch the woman prostrate herself before her monarch, he might have almost cracked a smile. But he was miles away by then, driving the Bentley at nearly the hundred-mile-per-hour speeds he'd teased the valet about.

Luckily, Milliardo had personally contacted the police to instruct them to clear the way for the three search vehicles, or any one of them might have been stopped a number of times.

Sometimes it was good knowing a crown prince…

But all the royalty in the world couldn't speed up the search, and Heero went through two tanks of gas and hours of driving before he admitted that a street by street search was futile.

He couldn't stand to go back to the palace and admit defeat -- to just wait for word of what might have become of his love. But he finally pulled over and turned the car off, allowing himself a moment to rest his head on the steering wheel and give in to the despair that had gripped him since the search began.

His cell phone rang, and he jumped and scrambled to answer it. "Yuy! Did you find him?"

"Not yet," came Quatre's weary voice. "I've stopped back at the palace for coffee and a bite to eat. Perhaps you should join us --."

"No!"

"Heero -- he's probably fine. He might have just taken a long walk so he could think things through. He'll probably find his way back any time now."

"We've had a whole police force out looking," Heero reminded him. "If he were walking on any public thoroughfare, they'd have found him by now."

"So maybe he's walking on a nice little lane, or in a garden."

"In the middle of the night?"

"Heero -- just come back for a quick break. You need it."

"No, Quatre. I can't. It's my fault Duo ended up here; I can't just leave him on his own."

"What choice do you have?"

"I -- don't know," Heero admitted. He sighed, closing his eyes, and rubbing them with his fingertips. "Did Milliardo call Alex's cell?"

"There's no answer. It's apparently turned off. But I think he's got the police working at triangulating on its location."

"Let me know if they have any luck. If we find Alex --."

"I don't want to know what you plan to do to him, Heero. I'm a lawyer."

Heero managed a hoarse chuckle that very nearly turned into a sob. "I'm going to the airport to look. I know they said they'd call -- but maybe he got there without being noticed."

Quatre's sigh conveyed how thin a hope that was. "Good luck," he said simply.

Heero shut his phone, and started up the car again, fighting a creeping exhaustion and growing sense of hopelessness.

He was more than a little surprised he made it to the airport in one piece. He was almost too tired to see straight by then. But he parked in the short-term lot, and headed inside, figuring he could buy coffee at a vending machine and maybe keep himself functioning for a few hours more.

After a cup of vile-tasting liquid, and a trip to the bathroom to splash cold water on his face, he checked with each and every ticketing agent, security guard, and vendor in the entire airport -- asking if they'd seen a strikingly handsome man with a long, chestnut braid.

But no one had, and it was approaching dawn when Heero finally admitted defeat and headed for the exit -- debating whether to call Milliardo to send a limo, or try driving the expensive sports car in his ragged condition.

He was nearly there when the glass doors slid open and Duo stepped inside, looking rumpled and weary. He almost didn't believe his eyes, gritty and stinging as they were.

"Duo --?"

The braided head shot up, and Duo took two steps forward, before catching himself and coming to a halt. "What do you want?" he asked warily.

"Are you okay?" Heero asked breathlessly, ignoring the obvious tension, crossing the lobby in three strides, and pulling a resisting Duo into his arms. "Where have you been? I've been frantic! God, are you all right?" He pushed Duo to arm's length, studying the shocked expression on the pale face. "Duo?"

"Wh--what's it to you?" Duo demanded breathlessly, sounding like he'd been trying for pissed-off, but failed.

"I love you. That's what," Heero blurted, kissing him desperately.

Duo squirmed in his grasp, wedging his arms in between and forcing a few inches of space between them. "No you don't!" he accused.

"Yes, I do."

"'S that why you kissed the pink princess?" Duo demanded, regaining his bluster a bit.

"I kissed her on the cheek -- to congratulate her on her engagement," Heero said evenly, keeping his arms securely wrapped around Duo so he couldn't bolt again until they'd settled things.

"Yeah? And I'm supposed to believe --?" Duo stopped in mid-sentence, his face transitioning from angry and hurt to just plain bewildered. "Engagement?" he asked quietly.

Heero nodded, smiling mysteriously.

"T-to who?" came a hesitant query.

"Someone other than me," Heero replied patiently, and when Duo seemed to relax a fraction, he explained. "We were wrong, Duo. She had no designs on me. This whole time --."

"Seriously?"

"Seriously." Heero felt the tension in the lean shoulders easing, and he dared to pull Duo up against his chest again, smiling when the other man relaxed, leaning into him. "She only wanted to get me alone to tell me about Edward, her true love."

"Huh. Go figure." Slender arms wrapped around Heero's waist, clinging tightly, and then a timid voice spoke up. "So -- everything you said before --?"

"All true," Heero assured him.

"And what you said a minute ago?"

"Which part?"

"The 'I love you' part --."

"Also true," Heero said quickly. He felt a shiver run through the body pressed up to his. "Are you -- okay?"

"Great," Duo sighed, burying his face in Heero's shirt.

Heero heard a faint sniffle, and tightened his grip. "Sure you're okay?"

"Mm-hm. Jus' had a really long night --."

"I know the feeling," Heero said with a quiet laugh. "I was out of my mind with worry. When Silvia said Dorothy sent Alex after you --."

Duo stiffened, raising his head from Heero's chest and looking up at him with a mixture of disbelief and fury. "She what?!"

"You heard me," Heero said darkly. "The two of them had plotted to get Relena and me together, not realizing Relena had no interest in me that way at all. I don't know exactly what Dorothy and Alex were up to, but --." He paused, seeing a flicker of distaste cross Duo's face. "Love? Did -- something happen?"

Duo shrugged one shoulder, relaxing against Heero again. "Nothing much," he hedged.

"Did Alex -- find you?"

"Gave me a ride in his convertible," Duo answered.

"Shit." Heero instantly feared the worst. "Did he --?"

"Tried," Duo admitted.

"Tried." Heero almost held his breath. "Failed?"

"Let's just say that by the time he comes to, he'll have a jolly time trying to untie himself from the toilet in the cheap-assed hotel room where I left him." Duo smirked devilishly. "According to him, no one there listens to screams and yells -- so I figure no one will bother helping him. Assuming he can get the gag off --."

And then Duo was "gagged" by Heero's mouth over his own.

The prolonged kiss was followed by several more, along with murmured reassurances strewn with threats of what was going to happen to Alex when Heero got his hands on him.

Duo snickered at some of the more colorful ideas. "Much as I'm enjoying these plans we're hatching, I'm fuckin' worn out, 'Ro. Any chance we could sack out on a bench for a few hours until our flight?"

"I've got a better idea. Let's go back to the palace, indulge in that decadent hot tub, sleep half the day away, have a lavish meal, and then let Pargan bring us back here for a late flight out, hm?"

"Tryin' to seduce me again?"

"Would I stand a chance?"

Duo gave a husky laugh. "Let's just say, you won't end up hogtied face-first against a toilet." His eyes went soft, and his smile turned gentle. "Did I mention I love you?"

"Love you, too," Heero sighed, feeling like everything was suddenly all right with the world.