Why did he have to get plastered almost every night? It was amazing he could even function. Somehow he managed though.

I shook my head. Duo wasn't my concern. He was a Gundam Pilot and had to take care of himself. I tried to tell myself that, instead my concern only grew.

We're in the middle of a war. Feelings like that would only distract us both. Make us vulnerable. He doesn't need a millstone around his neck.

How long had I been fighting these feelings? Unnatural and unwanted...yet there they were. Every time he met my eyes...or came into a room.

Duo stood in the doorway, half-empty bottle in hand. He leaned on the doorframe slightly as if gathering strength. His eyes were unfocussed.

"Heero." He slurred. "What'cha doin' up s'late?" Pushing off he came closer.

I stood and closed my laptop. In his condition I wouldn't get him to leave anytime soon, and I didn't trust myself near him. I started towards the door.

"Don't go." He protested, putting out his hands to stop me and nearly falling over. Instinctively I grabbed him as he teetered wildly.

He looked up at me, almost limp in my arms. My eyes met his, I felt his warm breath on my face.

Without warning he raised his head and our lips touched, heat scorching me. I wanted to push away, tell him this was wrong. Instead I only stood there, shocked. This was what I wanted, what I dreamed of. How could I deny it?

Somehow I found the strength. As I pulled back, he stood up. Duo wouldn't meet my eyes as he turned and scuffed out of the kitchen.

He turned half around in the doorway. "S'sorry Heero." He slurred. "Guess I drank a bit too much." He leaned on the doorframe again...then continued on into the darkness.

Oh Duo. Did you know how much I wanted to tighten my hold on you and return your kiss with so much burning passion that I would set you on fire?

You say you were drunk. You blamed the alcohol. But I tasted you...I smelt your breath.

You were stone sober tonight.

Somehow that makes it worse.