Archivist's note: This story was inspired by the official life-size tapestry posters of the Gundam Wing characters.

Better Together
by Merith

"Thank you for the use of your home," Wufei offered, replacing his laptop in its bag, and closing it. He stood from the low seated sofa; his glance was swift around the room. "More comfortable than remaining at the office."

Heero turned from shutting down his computer, a slight frown creasing his brow. "The sofa and table were Duo's idea." He offered a slight smile, quickly gone. "He likes to read in here when I have to work from home."

Shouldering his bag and giving a nod, Wufei took a step toward the door. Though he was certain of the answer, he asked anyway, "He's quiet enough to let you work?"

Heero's smile was wider, lasted longer, and his eyes took on a suggestion of amusement. "He only talks so much around you because you are 'so cute when he's annoyed'."

Wufei stiffened suddenly, color high on his cheeks. "Maxwell said... that? About me?"

The shrug was nonchalant, the smile twisted wryly. "Don't think too much of it. He also thinks it's cute in the way a spider wraps an insect in webbing, and when Relena gets exasperated enough to curse at him."

It took a deep breath and a call on his training to control any further reaction. He had to work with Heero -- enjoyed working with Heero -- and he wouldn't do anything to jeopardize their relationship. Resorting to name-calling and threats might cross that line. Wufei decided at that moment to return Duo's antics with the same intent given.

"Relena has a decent vocabulary," he said instead, and headed for the door. "She is very imaginative when she's wants."

Heero chuckled softly behind him. "She surprised me the first time. I think she enjoys it."

They were at the door, and Wufei nodded as he reached for the knob. "I think so..." His words died, catching sight of the picture cutout seeming pasted to the door. He opened his mouth to ask, shutting it suddenly when he noticed the other picture. "Heero, why are there --" His words died again, his surprise complete; Heero Yuy was blushing.

"Duo's idea." And his mouth closed.

Wufei slowly opened the door, watching the near life-size cutout of Duo glide to come within a couple of inches of the near life-size cutout of Heero fixed to the wall of the door cubby. He moved the door opened and closed again, watching Heero from the corner of his eyes. Heero ducked his head, his flush deepening. Leaving the door opened with the images nearly touching, Wufei entered the hall, his eyes showing amusement.

"Interesting," he said, wondering what else he would find in Heero -- and Duo's -- home.