Chapter Text
As a kid, Okuyasu didn't get out very often. If he did, it would be more of a secret operation with his older brother to go explore random places. Keichou always knew how to make things fun, especially after another outburst from their father. They'd go to a nearby pond and count the fish they saw. They'd walk along the roadside just talking. His favorite was when they'd go upstairs and sit on the roof, watching the sunset. It was the one of the few things he missed from the days when his dad wasn't cursed.
Now, he's doing these things with Josuke – except they can go even further via train (he wasn't allowed to take the train when he was younger). As embarrassing as it is, Okuyasu has only been outside of Morioh about 4 times. This would be the 5th.
Josuke, of course, is very familiar with the area, skillfully leading the way towards the large shopping mall. It stands out quite a lot, boasting four total stories and an incredibly large parking lot in the front. Like the other places they've been today, there are a ton of people walking around in crowds – some tourists, some locals. Sometimes he forgets that there are truly so many people in the world. He never thinks of moments like these when he's alone, sitting quietly in his room at night, eyes red and tired.
It gets a little convoluted when he tries to differentiate loneliness and being alone.
“You good, man?” Josuke is looking back at him now, and Okuyasu realizes he managed to lag a good couple steps behind.
“Yeah!”
Well, right now? He's not alone or lonely.
Okuyasu picks up his pace to cover the distance as they make their way to the front door. Josuke rushes up to the door first to open it – a little competition they always have. Okuyasu quickly meets him there, reaching for the door as well. He shoves the other, straining to tug on the handle. Okuyasu pushes his palm hard against Josuke's forehead with a grunt.
“Lemme get it!”
Josuke ducks his head to get away from the male's hand, reaching his arm past Okuyasu's torso. “I got it! Move!”
“Excuse me? Could I get through, please?”
The two pause their spat, turning their attention to the elderly woman standing before them. Josuke scrambles to the side as Okuyasu opens the door for her, apologizing profusely as the woman smiles at them.
“Thank you, gentlemen.”
They stand in silence for a moment before Josuke takes the opportunity to step through the door.
“Hey!” Okuyasu calls after him, following close behind.
….
“That was your fault,” Josuke teases, bumping his shoulder against Okuyasu's.
Okuyasu kicks at Josuke's leg, tripping him slightly. As if like clockwork, their strides quickly fall back into rhythm with one another. They've been oddly in sync recently – breathing at the same time, fixing their sleeves at the same time, the like.
“You're the one who was actin’ like the door was gonna run away from ya.”
Okuyasu takes in the atmosphere, admiring the many different shops, all displaying their products and claiming to be better than the rest. A majority of them are selling clothes (how many kinds of shirts even exist for all these stores??), which is a good thing for them. His gaze settles on a streetwear-focused shop with a name Okuyasu can't really understand. Josuke notices the target of the other's attention and smirks.
“C'mon, let's check it out,” he says, already walking towards the entrance.
Okuyasu's senses are suddenly attacked by the smell of rosemary and herbs as they are greeted by the employee at the door. It must be an incense or some candle that's way too strong for his liking. He scrunches his nose, trying not to look so obviously bothered. Josuke doesn't seem to mind the floral welcome, so he decides not to bring it up.
They pass a mannequin wearing a dark green Letterman jacket and black sweatpants detailed with a similarly green colored stripe on the outer thigh. Okuyasu isn't super keen on the color, but he likes the look of the jacket. He deviates from the central walkway of the store and moves to admire the outfit up-close.
“You like those kinda jackets?”
Okuyasu hums softly, running his fingers along the fabric. Smooth and soft.
“Mm, guess so? I wouldn't mind wearin’ this.”
Josuke inspects the clothing as well, circling the mannequin to “ensure its quality”.
“Not the best summer attire, but you'll need it later. Wanna try it on?”
Okuyasu hadn't really thought about actually trying the clothes on. Honestly, he isn't even sure what exactly he was expecting.
“Sure, why not?”
The two look through the nearby clothing rack for a good size, and continue searching the store. It starts to feel like Okuyasu is shopping with his mom, because Josuke is grabbing clothes he thinks will look good on him without much thought (or input from the other). Okuyasu doesn't really mind.
“Aaaaand that should be good for now! Let's see, where're the changing rooms?” Josuke plops one more t-shirt into Okuyasu's already full arms.
“Dont’cha think this is a lil’ much?” He struggles to speak over the mountain of clothes.
“Trust me, it feels like a lot at first, but you'll probably end up putting away half of these.” He spots the changing rooms on the further side of the store. “C'mon! Over this way!”
The male is relieved to finally set down the clothes on the benches in front of the small rooms. Now that he has to pick something to try first, it feels a little overwhelming. Luckily, Josuke can basically read minds, and takes the lead.
“You should try this shirt on first,” he says as he rummages through the pile and brings out a baby blue polo.
Okuyasu takes it from him and steps into the cubicle, pulling the curtain shut behind him. Not much later, he walks out again. The polo is a decent fit, size wise, but it doesn't really fit Okuyasu's vibe.
“Mm, makes you look like a teacher.”
“More like some guy who works ‘n office job. Feels weird.”
Josuke is already looking for another item, which he quickly finds and hands off to Okuyasu.
The process repeats for a good 15 minutes before they have two separate piles – the definite keepers and the ones to be hung back up immediately. One of the shirts Josuke had picked is slightly cropped, something Okuyasu has never really imagined himself in. Regardless, he keeps an open mind and still tries it on. When he steps back out for Josuke's opinion, the male can barely speak. The bottom of the shirt reaches just above his belly button, also revealing the waistband of his boxers. Josuke knows Okuyasu has abs, but, man, did this shirt really make them pop. As if that isn't enough, the shirt fits tight on his chest, almost like a compression shirt. It gives Josuke the same energy as a body-con dress would. He loves it.
Okuyasu, on the other hand, isn't so sure. He shifts awkwardly on his heels as he awaits Josuke's (verbal) opinion. “So, what'dya think?”
He snaps back to reality, standing up to get a better view (not that it was necessary). “I think it looks good! Shows off your physique and all.”
“Yeah, but is it s'pposed to be so high up?” He tugs at the shirt to no avail.
“Of course! It's a cropped shirt. Ladies love guys who aren't scared to show a little skin.”
Okuyasu looks at himself in the mirror hanging on the wall between changing rooms. Josuke's right – his muscles really show in this shirt. Right now, he feels a little shy wearing something like this in front of Josuke. He thinks it'd be somewhat better if he was just shirtless.
Josuke pats his shoulder. “If you're not comfortable in it, you can put it back. This is supposed to be me helping you find your style. Sorry I got a little carried away with my picks. Think I started trying to make a mini-me.”
“No, I… I want it.”
“You sure? For real man, don't buy something you won't wear.”
“I'll wear it, promise! When I see it ‘n my closet, I'll think'a you,” he smiles at Josuke through the mirror.
“....Okay,” Josuke says, having to force the word out. He claps his hands to bring himself back to reality. “Okay! Decision made! Fine by me.”
Okuyasu casually heads back inside of the changing room. The moment the curtain closes, Josuke practically melts onto the bench. He buries his face in his hands, cheeks flushed from his brain replaying that statement. The thought of Okuyasu thinking of him because of a dumb shirt sends his stomach on a rollercoaster. Not to mention, he looks incredibly cute in it.
Okuyasu is in a similarly flustered state, slumped against the wall with his hands wrapped around his abdomen. He hadn't expected to like this so much. Just the way Josuke looked at him when he stepped out was enough to make his heart start to race. And the thing he said about thinking of Josuke? The words had slipped out before he got a chance to run them through a “gay-tester”. Either way, it definitely came off a little flirtatious. To be honest, he doesn't regret it.
Josuke puts away the clothes Okuyasu didn't like while the other finishes changing. After Okuyasu pays for the haul, they reconvene at the store’s entrance, chatting about random things as they begin to peruse the neighboring shops. They stop at several and Josuke takes the opportunity to get a few things for himself. By the 6th store, their stomachs draw their attention to more pressing matters. Using their absurd amount of bags, they claim a table in the food court and look around for something to eat. After a quick round of rock-paper-scissors, Okuyasu decides on cold soba to combat the heat that has somehow crept into the massive room. Josuke pays for their meals (despite Okuyasu's protests), and they take their seats and begin scarfing down their noodles.
They've already finished eating about half an hour ago, but getting out of their seats would mean they'll have to head home soon. That means parting ways, and at this point, it feels like enough to kill them.
“So, how'd ya feel about today?” Josuke asks, chewing on the straw in his empty cup.
“Pretty great actually! Can't wait ta start wearin’ everything.” Okuyasu excitedly drums his fingers on the edge of the table. For dramatic effect, he speeds up his hands, like a drumroll, before stopping abruptly. “Thanks a lot, man. I really did need this.”
“Pssh, of course. I feel like I gotta take care of you sometimes.”
“How sweet of you,” he replies somewhat sarcastically.
“Seriously! You're always too busy worryin’ about other people to focus on yourself.” Josuke leans forward and flicks Okuyasu's forehead.
“Hmph! ‘S not like I choose ta hafta take care of other people. This may sound kinda selfish, but sometimes I wish I could just run away from home fer a little while,” Okuyasu mutters, rubbing his forehead.
“Then let's go somewhere.”
He perks up. “Huh? Go where?”
“I don't know! Somewhere! Anywhere! We don't need to go back home yet, even when we're done here,” Josuke stands up, his chair sliding against the floor obnoxiously.
“Dude, you know I can't just up and skedaddle like that–”
“Hush!” Josuke starts grabbing their bags. “Your dad can survive a day without you. You, my friend, still need some time to breathe.”
Okuyasu stands up as well, picking up the last few totes. “Where would we even go?”
Josuke pauses, thinking for a moment before smiling wide at the other.
“I know a place!”
~~~~~~~~~
The two are at least 15 minutes away from the Morioh train station when Okuyasu pipes up.
“Seriously Josuke, how much further is this mystery place?
“Just a little down this path!”
They continue their trek, now hands-free as Crazy Diamond carries their items. The Hand tried to offer its assistance as well, but almost erased a nice pair of cargo shorts. It seems to still be sulking, but Crazy Diamond is trying to console it.
Making their way down a particularly steep hill, Okuyasu and Josuke arrive at a portion of the stream that runs behind their neighborhood. A large red cedar tree stands proudly between them and the river bank a couple steps ahead. The sun has slowly started to set, reflecting its golden glow along the surface of the water. A gentle breeze flows through the vibrant green leaves, and somehow straight through Okuyasu's body.
“Last one to the tree is a rotten egg!” Josuke shouts as he jogs down the hill.
Okuyasu laughs, deciding to entertain the silly race instead of just using his Stand. He slides down the hill, stumbling a little as he catches up to Josuke.
“I win!” Josuke cheers, throwing his hands up in the air in celebration.
He turns around to see Okuyasu still coming in hot from the top of the hill. Losing his balance, he collides with Josuke, sending them both tumbling down next to the tree.
“Ack! Sorry!” Okuyasu chokes out, picking his face up from the dirt.
Josuke bursts out laughing, his bandana abandoned on the ground from the fall. His bun is almost completely undone, hair falling from the top of his head against his shoulders. Dirt speckles his cheeks like little freckles.
Okuyasu joins in, laughing heartily alongside Josuke. He realizes his shirt is no longer the same clean white that it was earlier that afternoon. They both look like a complete mess. It feels good.
Sitting up and pulling his knees to his chest, Josuke stares out towards the calm waters in front of them.
“I used to come here all the time in middle school. Whenever I wanted to get my frustration out, I'd beat the hell outta that tree and use Crazy Diamond to restore it. Other times, I just sit and look at the water for hours,” he speaks softly, still not moving his gaze from the river. “Especially after my grandpa passed, I felt like this was the only place I could go to. It was one of the few consistent things in my life, and I liked it – I needed it. The tree hasn't moved, the water keeps flowing in the same direction, stuff like that.”
Okuyasu also sits up, legs outstretched. He looks at Josuke. There's a serene sadness in his expression that makes his heart squeeze. As much as Josuke likes to take care of him, Okuyasu realizes he needs to return the favor. There aren't a lot of times that Josuke talks about his struggles – he said he doesn't like to wallow in his sadness – but when he does, it feels like a stab to the chest. He never wants to see Josuke hurt, physically or emotionally.
“D'you still come out here sometimes?”
“Mm. Not as often, I think.” He finally looks at Okuyasu, a soft smile creeping onto his face. “Now, it's just easier to come to you.”
His heart thunders in his chest. Okuyasu scratches the back of his neck, stammering. “Ah jeez! Yer makin’ me get all emotional about ya.”
Josuke scoots a little closer and Okuyasu sucks in a sharp breath. “Heh, welcome to my world…”
He tilts his head, resting his ear against Okuyasu's shoulder. His hair tickles Okuyasu's neck and he has to stifle a squirm. After a quick debate with himself in his head, Okuyasu leans against Josuke. He feels the other male's body fully relax, having the same effect on him.
Time feels slow and fast at the same time, teasing the two teens. The sun has long since set, its position taken over by the bright crescent glowing above Morioh. The two become acutely aware of how sweaty and covered in dirt they still are.
“Josuke?”
“Hmm?” He responds lazily.
“...I know I said this already, but thanks.”
Josuke picks his head up. He pinches Okuyasu's cheek, tugging a little. “Aw, it's nothing, really. I'm just glad you had a good time.”
“Quit that!” Okuyasu laughs, grabbing a hold of Josuke's hand – a slight sense of déjà vu taking over. Their faces are inches apart, breathing almost perfectly in sync.
Eyes flick down to the other's lips.
Gazes draw back up to each other's eyes.
Suddenly, the distance between them is a lot smaller, a lot more intimidating. Eyes closing, their lips connect gently, almost barely touching. It's experimental to say the least – neither of them have actually kissed anyone before. Still, it feels like the best thing either of them have ever experienced. Fireworks explode in Okuyasu's head, followed by a plethora of questions.
Does this make me gay?
How long has Josuke liked me back?
Are we going to start dating now?
Josuke relaxes his hand to cup the male's cheek. His eyes open slowly, blue meeting dark brown, and all his questions disappear. He melts into Josuke's warm palm and he's overtaken by a familiar sensation.
Safety. Comfort. Love?
Josuke pecks Okuyasu's lips again and stands up, stretching out the stiffness from sitting in one place for so long. It almost confuses Okuyasu how quickly he moves on, until he notices the cherry tint on the tips of Josuke's ears. Cute.
“Oi! Don't leave me behind!” Okuyasu calls after him, getting up and following him up the hill.
They pick up the bags from the sidewalk and start their short journey back home. The two don't talk about the kiss. They don't need to – at least not tonight.
……
Not enough time has passed before they arrive at Josuke's front yard. The lights in the Higashikata residence are expectedly off, but the two can still almost feel Tomoko's presence.
“You sure you don't need me to help you carry your stuff to your place? Feels like I'm always the one getting dropped off.”
“Nah, I'm alright. Can't have ya doin’ too much heavy lifting!”
Josuke nudges him with his fist. “Hey, I could beat your ass with my eyes closed.”
“Lemme know when that day comes ‘n I'll be there t’ wake ya up,” he says with a wink (more of an awkward blink, but it was close enough).
“Whatever. Go get some sleep, man.”
“Yeah yeah. You too, Josuke.”
“What? No goodnight kiss?” Josuke teases, partially joking.
Okuyasu's body moves almost too quickly for him to realize -- too quickly to back down. He steps forward, pressing his lips against Josuke's. This kiss is longer than the first one. It's also much more out in the open – even in the dark, they feel exposed. But Okuyasu can only think one thing:
Who cares?
They reluctantly part and Josuke covers his mouth with the back of his hand.
“You're really forward now, huh…”
Okuyasu cocks his head to the side. “You asked fer a kiss, so I gave ya one.”
“I was kinda joking!”
“You started it with that first one, ya know!”
“No clue what you're talking about! G'night Okuyasu!” He turns away and starts heading towards his front door.
Okuyasu grins stupidly – Josuke always manages to leave him speechless. He waves at Okuyasu from the front door. He waves back, and the door closes. The same feeling of content washes over him in addition to something else. Clarity?
Yeah, this is love.