Goro lounges back against the blankets piled at the head of Yusuke’s futon. Yusuke makes his way over, towelling off the hair at the nape of his neck. Goro scrolls through his phone with a severe frown, brows drawn together. For a few moments, Yusuke debates whether he should ask. Akira would know the right course of action just by reading the lines on Goro’s face. But for Yusuke, it’s not that simple. He never knows if he’ll get an answer or an outburst.

Thankfully, Goro makes the choice for him. “Akira isn’t going to be joining us.” Goro sets his phone on the floor.

“Oh?” Yusuke drops his towel into the hamper at his bedside.

“He says Sakura-san worked him too hard. He’s too tired to take the train.”

Often when projects keep Goro on campus late or when the Chuo Line pulls into Kichijoji Station before the Chiyoda Line, Goro will choose to seek refuge from the heat in Yusuke’s apartment. On those days, Akira will usually take the long train ride from Yongen-Jaya to Taito after he gets off work. This is the first time he’s chosen to retire by himself.

“Will you be leaving, then?” Yusuke tries to keep his voice neutral and hide the nervous flutter of his heart.

Goro snorts and raises an eyebrow. “Are you kidding me? I’ve already showered. I'm not about to put clothes on and jump into a metal sweatbox.”

Yusuke tries not to let the relief show on his face. Still, he can’t help but feel sympathy for their lone boyfriend, across the city. “But won’t Akira get lonely?”

Goro crawls up onto his knees and shrugs. “Morgana will keep him company.” He reaches up to catch one of Yusuke’s hands.

Sure thing!

Here’s the link. I hope you’re gonna enjoy this one. It’s long and still ongoing, so brace yourself :)