Portrait of the Lionheart (Leo/Kobe)

[clementine]

Kobe listened closely to what Leo was saying, his face intent with concentration as he tried to understand. No wonder why he was so confused! What Leo said made the human himself sound so very strange. He was glad that the current Leo was opening up to him and at least explaining the problem. Kobe’s mouth dropping into a frown of concentration. It seemed he had at least been somewhat right about there being a second Leo. That explained the change in scent too. At least there only seemed to be two Leos. Was the boy schizophrenic then? Kobe didn’t know much about this, but knew that it was a multiple personality disorder. Leo didn’t seem disordered though.

He sighed, knowing that if he was going to win his little mate over, then he would have to keep track of the two personalities. From the sound of it, the current Leo didn’t mind touching. Good. The male also seemed to be a little more outgoing and made sense when he called his other half fragile. While this Leo seemed to be stronger in the situation, the other seemed to be unsure and timid. The contrast in the two personalities was so great that Kobe knew he was going to have a hard time compensating for both of them. The greatest thing that he had to keep in mind was that the sweet smelling, timid Leo, didn’t like to be touched. This was going to be hard as Kobe needed to touch the human.

This was all just so vexing! He wondered how Leo himself was able to keep track of things. Kobe was biting his lower lip in thought as his brain slowly clicked away at what it had just hear. He thought of what to say. He had to say something at least to what Leo had told him. But what was there to say? He couldn’t just say he understood, because he didn’t. Not entirely at least. Lost in thought, Kobe wasn’t aware of how close Leo was to him. If he had been paying any attention, he would have been able to pick up the boy’s feelings along with his intent. As it were, Kobe was startled.

Kobe went rigid for a moment, very much like the timid Leo had done earlier. Yet the feel of Leo’s soft mouth against his was enough to undo him. Groaning in relief at the kiss, he welcomed Leo’s touching, enfolding the boy in his arms. He deepened the kiss just a smidge, slanting his mouth above his oblivious mate‘s. Kobe didn’t want to end the kiss either as was apparent by his eagerness to hold Leo. As always, Kobe’s touch was gentle and calm. There was something soothing about such power being checked by tenderness. The lion couldn’t help the way he was. He would fight, yes, he had the power to do so…but more often than not his touches remained light, his kindness evident. Kobe would do anything for Leo. He wanted the boy to love him…even like him a little, but he didn’t expect it. From all that had happened, he wondered if Leo would ever be truly comfortable with him. Both the Leos.

When Leo pulled back, Kobe let him, glad the boy hadn’t pulled from him completely. At least this current Leo didn’t mind touching him. Kobe purred at that thought, one of his hands sliding to the base of the human’s spin, feeling every bump along the way. He shivered slightly at the feel of Leo’s lithe little body and was glad of it. Unfortunately, the lion had to drag his sidetracked mind back to the conversation, even though he entertain idea of kissing Leo again. He secretly hoped that the male would demand payment in the form of sex. Kobe would never dare to initiate such a thing…but if Leo did so he thought it would be okay.

“Will you not eat also?” Was Kobe’s first question. He didn’t want his mate to go without food. The boy had to eat. “Why don’t you have breakfast with us and then we can go to the store together.” He was referring to him and Ferris. Kobe glanced at the baby. The toddler was sitting under the table where he had left him, contentedly chewing on his own small fists. Ferris was a very easy baby and didn’t get too much into trouble.

“Please don’t go.” Kobe said, tugging Leo just a bit closer. “Not yet anyways. Ferris should be okay with the oatmeal. He doesn’t need his formula right this second.” This was true. Ferris wouldn’t need it again for another few hours, which was nice. Kobe truly wanted to go with Leo too. Ferris would not only need formula, but diapers and myriad of other things. Kobe hoped the human would continue to be accommodating. The lion would hate to have to steal something for a store, but would do so if it couldn’t be helped.

The last comment that Leo made had Kobe happy, yet frowning at the same time. “I’m glad that you think so. I‘d be…unhappy if at least one of you couldn‘t like me.” Kobe rumbled deep in his chest. He kissed Leo’s cheek, nuzzling again against the boy’s soft hair. “But, what must I do to get both of you to like me?” This was of the utmost importance to Kobe. Leo was his mate and so it was imperative that the male, all of him, liked him. The lion would have no chance of bringing him home otherwise.

Smiling wryly, Kobe was the first to pull back from Leo. Ferris needed to be tended to and he didn’t want the breakfast to get cold. He moved to scoop up Ferris, the baby giggled as he was made into a wiggling football again. With one arm securely around Ferris, Kobe began spoon oatmeal into the bowl that Leo left on the table. Kobe would feed Ferris first, then himself. With the bowl full, he sat back down at the table, perching Ferris on the edge of it, so the baby’s head was about level with his own.

“So will you stay?” Kobe asked plaintively, looking at Leo while shooting the human a heart stopping smile. He nodded his head toward the table as if to say, “c’mon” as he picked up the spoon and began the great task of putting slippery oatmeal into a mouth that simply spit it out again. Ferris would get the eating thing down, hopefully.

[Kago]

Leonardo would be lying if he said he wouldn't have liked to kiss the larger male again. But that wasn't the most present or up front thought in mind. Though the kiss did linger on his mind. Especially the way the other male had kissed him. He definitely would not have minded a longer and more intimate kiss. However he still had the things at present to focus on. Like what he needed to get. He was still thinking he would probably just go out and come back.

He supposed he would think on the details later. Right now he focused on the other male before him. He found it hard to focus on anything else. Well, there was the toddler he could never really forget. But he referred to anything and everything else. Like how he lingered close to him still even after the kiss.

Sapphire clue orbs really couldn't get enough of the older male before him. Had he heard what sounded like a purr? Surely he was imagining things and he already came to brush the thought off to the side. The last thing he wanted to do was start imagining things. He thought his mind was perfectly stable enough. It was just personal problems he had to deal with. But he couldn't think on that now. Not with how the other male touched him. Causing him to very briefly close his eyes for a few seconds before opening them again.

He really would be lying if he said he didn't like his touch. Things would be much easier if the other Leo saw things from the same point of view. If he felt what he felt and understood things from the forced perspective he had. He didn't have to understand everything. Just enough to let him get by in a manner similar to how he did. Just to be able to keep close without suddenly breaking down and having to call him out. He could enjoy that other males presence whether he was in control or not. He relatively at least got to enjoy the good moments the other Leo had, the few that he had really, he just could do nothing from how he would normally do it. That was better then nothing he supposed.

Leo figured he could eat later. Though the food would definitely be cold once he returned. He wasn't sure about waiting. Then again hearing what Kobe said next was tempting. The fact he would get to be in his company just a bit longer. He really couldn't say when he would go off to have the other Kobe return. He wanted to take every chance he had with the man he had only met last night. Whether it was selfish to think to do so or not. He wasn't worried about using such a word with himself. He would admit he could be and usually didn't care about what others thought.

Not it a way that he didn't care about anything. He had common sense. There were certain things one could and could not do. But there was no reason to think about that now. It wasn't like he was taking up Kobe's time from anyone else. He imagined Ferris would be with him. If he was being selfish with anyone it was the other him and it should have been obvious he didn't care to spend time with Kobe. He was here and the other wasn't after all.

Considering that last thought though. He still had to do something about when his other half came back. He didn't want anything to happen that would make him run. Who knows when he would come back to actually be the one to interact with the two guests he had here. That was if they came to stay that long. It could be days before he came back again for any particular reason. He didn't like the thought personally but he could not help it if it happened. He would just have to savour the time he had now and that was exactly what he intended to do. But now he needed to consider what he could in the present and he had to speak. Not the Leo that was currently dormant. Hopefully it would be awhile before he came back.

It really seemed like Kobe wanted him to say so why go. He would stay to eat a bit longer. They would leave as soon as possible though. He wondered if he had enough time to bathe and do everything else he usually did in the morning but didn't feel he should waste any time. He would do what he had to do and if he had the time he would do what he usually did. No time to lay about when he wasn't sure how much time he had. He knew better then to waste time doing things that he didn't need to. But focusing his thoughts on another subject he listened to what Kobe said next.

Well, sometimes there were likes and dislikes that were not he same. This sort of seemed like one of them, where he was fond of Kobe and his other half wasn't. however he felt that was not exactly the case. There was some mutual liking here. He just wasn't sure what it would take exactly to have the other Leo accept it. That was something he had to talk to Kobe about. Though he wasn't sure if he cared. Something he would have thought for awhile but feeling how the other was with hims, kissing him on the cheek and nuzzling him, it reminded him of a cat, he didn't think there was any lack of caring.

Although it still left him a bit confused he just figured he needed to learn a bit more about the other. That or he needed to be a bit more intimate him whenever he had the chance. The latter really had him leaning towards it. But he would think on that at a later time. Now he had to settle on what he knew was going on and would surely happen.

There came the question Leo had been trying to come up with the answer himself. He couldn't exactly say what but he could offer advice. That was the best he had in mind at the moment. Though he needed to consider it a bit more to see if he really had anything in mind that was more then that. No matter how he considered it he supposed it would be nothing more then that. Being some advice or a suggestion.

He was sort of helpless, he really didn't like that word, to take any action himself. He had to hope that Kobe would be able to do something and he could at least try to see what he could do himself but there wasn't much. Now wasn't the time to think on that either though. Well, he could think on it but at the moment he set it aside to give it more thought later.

Seeing Leo go over to the toddler was something that caused a faint smile to set itself upon his features. It seemed he was going to go ahead and feed the child now. Hopefully the food hadn't gotten cold. He would think not that much time had passes so it shouldn't be. He already decided what he wanted to do now. He would stay and eat. How could he think to go. Especially when he the look that Kobe gave him after asking him again.

He considered his response a rather silly one, the way he felt when he saw that smile and felt... well he wasn't sure how to describe it, it had him smiling back as if he couldn't help it. "I suppose it wouldn't hurt to." That was his yes there. But he didn't rush to the table yet. He returned to the counter where he had the glass of orange juice sitting and poured out the second glass before placing the juice back in the fridge and bringing both cups to the table.

Where he set one by Kobe and another by where he sat with the food he placed for himself. He wouldn't say it out loud but he was really actually happy to have this chance to do this. He wasn't sure why. Perhaps because of how he felt towards Kobe. Something he really wished his other half had a chance to feel. But he felt things wouldn't be solved so easily.

Taking up the utensils he set by his plate he went about starting to eat but briefly paused to eat. "I'm not quite sure what you can do exactly to have the other Leo to like you." He wanted to get this out of the way before he was gone again which was who knows when. "Just try not randomly approach him as you did before." Really that had surprised the both of them. That is the Leo present and the previous one.

"If you can somehow get his used to you, then I'm sure he'll relax enough to touch you but rushing things with him is unwise." Unless he wanted a repeat of what happened here. "I was wondering though..." He trailed off thoughtfully, looking off to the side for a moment before looking back to Kobe.

"Maybe sex will help." He supposed it was random but he considered it earlier. But who was he kidding, he was the only one who wanted that. Still, it might do something. "But not with him, the other me, I don't see that happening anytime soon not sinc-" He found himself cutting his own sentence off as he suddenly frowned. He didn't really need to say anymore. It would just be a little awkward to. But then again he didn't care to hide it. He just needed the other male to keep it to himself.

"Now don't mention it to the other Leo but I'll say it's due to a bad...experience with a past relationship in bed." He thought that was the most polite way to put it without saying it bluntly. Something he didn't mind doing but he really didn't feel he could say it himself. He never actually spoke it before and he didn't find himself able to now. Well, no more thinking on that part unless he had to. He went off from their starting to eat off the plate he had with the eggs and the two other things he made. To be exact it was pancakes and bacon. Both things he was sure the toddler wouldn't eat and thus the oatmeal mainly for him. He supposed he should get some syrup but he;d only get it if asked. To him pancakes tasted good no matter what it had on it.

[clementine]

Kobe smiled brighter still in response to Leo’s own smile. “You look very handsome when you smile.” The lion blurted, only to flush at the suddenness of his comment. With great fervor, he made to continue to feed Ferris as if he had said nothing at all. He wasn’t sure if this current Leo liked compliments or not. He had met people who got huffy when told they were good looking. He shrugged. Well, his comment was true. He was momentarily distract from the conversation and his own thoughts when Ferris sneezed, sending bits of oatmeal flying. Kobe wiped his cheek with a smile and continued valiantly on.

Looking at Leo and listening to the boy speak, made Kobe even more curious over him. With a free hand, he pulled a little at his short goatee in thought. The advice that was given to him was very good. He couldn’t help but be happy that the current Leo seemed to like him a little at least. This was cause for happiness. After all, it was good when mates liked each other. Kobe smiled at this, glad for Leo and having found him. He wanted to confide in this current one about the mate bond, but held off. It would only scare the human further. It was better to get both Leo’s to like him before he dropped that little bomb. He’d have to hurry though. It wouldn’t be daylight all the time and he knew that when dark descended, then so would the Prasidion. Maybe Kobe could stay hidden from them for the time being, but not forever. He’d have to find a ship or a communicator and get back to Zerca as soon as possible. There had been an S.O.S beacon in the escape pod but it wouldn’t due to let his hopes rest on the little transmitter. The Prasidions would surely have found and destroyed the thing. Nevetheless, he would go and check on the thing before it got dark, once he got Ferris settled.

For every two bites of oatmeal that Kobe offered Ferris, he took one of his own. By his example, Ferris seemed to be catching on, some of the food actually going into his stomach and not down his front. Kobe was glad for his preoccupation of the toddler. It gave him time to mull over Leo’s words.

“I can try not to approach him so quickly, I know that I must. It’ll hard though, especially if the other you makes such sad faces. I really just wanted to comfort him.” Kobe frowned at the remembrance of the feelings of the other Leo. The boy had just seemed to sad and it had hit Kobe hard. He wanted to be there for the boy but didn’t know how he could protect him for such a thing as sadness. “Do you think if I said “hey I’m going to hug you” that he’d be more amiable.” Kobe said this even knowing that it couldn’t be that easy.

Reaching for the orange juice, Kobe took a sip, only to choke on it when Leo mentioned sex. “You really think that might help?” The lion elated at the idea of such an encounter and was immediately hard imagining Leo’s naked body beneath him. He was very glad that Leo was across the take and couldn’t see the sizable blulge beneath his pants. It was just like the night before. The merest intimate touch or word from the boy gave him a cockstand that he’d thought would never lay. He kept himself composed as best he could. “Perhaps we should hold off on that. I would love to touch your body but I don’t want either of you to have regrets.” That and Zercan mates conceived the very first time they had sex. No. There would be no sex until Kobe was sure he safely held all of Leo’s affection.

“I will try my best to get him to be comfortable around me.” Kobe added, only to growl a bit deep in his chest, a noise that made Ferris blink in surprise. “It must have been an awful experience then.” He rumbled, stupidly angry with himself for not being there to protect Leo from such a thing. “I won’t ever let you be touched in all ill way again Leo. I’ll make sure of that.” He said this was such finality that there was no room for argument. And although he was wanted to ask what had happened in this relationship, he refrained. He could feel that Leo didn’t want to talk of it so he let it drop.

Kobe fell silent for a moment, nibbling a bit on the pancakes and bacon, having never tasted such things before. He wouldn’t even have thought to ask for syrup. It also seemed the Ferris was game to try the pancakes. He had grabbed one of the flat pieces, ripping it up into small pieces. He stuck bits of the pancake into his mouth, drooling a little over the soft bread-like texture. The pancake was disappearing though, so Kobe let Ferris have at it, glad that the toddler was getting along famously without his bottle.

Kobe ate with much gusto after having found he liked everything on the table. He made sure to leave Leo plenty to eat, while heartily tearing into the bacon strips and pancakes. Even the bland oatmeal tasted good. He was just that hungry! The food was gone relatively quickly due to Kobe bulldozer like eating

“So,” He started, giving Leo a rather appraisingly satisfied look. “You’d like to have sex with me?” He couldn’t help asking it. It made him happy to know his mate wanted him like that. He knew he was torturing himself by asking such a question. It only make his fantasies that more elaborate and he had a feeling he would become rather busy whenever he happened into a shower.

[Kago]

Leonardo found himself smiling a bit at the compliment. He wasn't the type to really blush, at least not a just anything, with what was said towards his smile. Something he didn't think he ever heard anyone come to say. Though he recalled being given compliments before. For some reason he found it seemed to mean a bit more from the larger male then it did from anyone else. He still wasn't sure what it was about the male but he really wasn't thinking to get into it. He however supposed he should at least thank the other male. "Thanks." He spoke this with a yet another faint smile. He wasn't sure whether he would call himself handsome but all the same a compliment was a compliment and he didn't socialize with that many people to really get any. None he cared for at least.

It was still overall a cute picture to see how Kobe was with Ferris. He couldn't help but pause what he was doing to let his gaze linger. He couldn't explain how happy he was to see the youth actually eat the food he made. Now he at least knew what he would eat so far. When he went out he thought to by some food especially for the toddler. He actually imagined he may have quite a bit to buy. He considered getting everything he thought the toddler would need but that seemed to e overdoing it. He would get everything he needed now and maybe tomorrow if not a little longer. not that he minded if it went beyond that. Considering that the two could possibly go at any moment or any day really. What was the point of purchasing everything the toddler would need, as if he intended to have them living here for weeks to months, and then have him go the next day. It seemed like a waste of time but he didn't find it such a bad idea. He really found he wanted to offer what he could to the child while he was here. He imagined after Ferris was going he wouldn't be around another at any point in time. Really, art did not require him hanging around kids so he didn't expect it to happen unless he had his own. He doubted he would be able to situate himself with some female and let her have her kids. He and his other half may not have anything against children but neither considered being a father. In fact with the lack of family he didn't expect anything. He came to accept his life alone and that was all there was. He had to reason to care otherwise.

Sapphire clue orbs really seemed to linger a bit too long on his two guests. He still had to finish his food as well. Still he found his gaze there a bit longer before he returned it back to his food. He went about eating it, in no particular hurry, thinking he probably should hurry if not simply for the sake of being able to go out and come back. He found while he did so he heard Kobe speak. He did hope that he would be able to follow the bit he told him. Though he knew what he referred to when he spoke of the faces he made. He thought he did at least. It actually had him pause for a moment as he considered what was said exactly. That Kobe really wanted to comfort him. Something he wished he could get through to his other half. Even if he did though he doubted that would help with anything. He actually found it quite an amusing image though and couldn't help but chuckle a bit. He could imagine Kobe actually doing that if he said it worked. He just wasn't sure about that working.

"I'm not sure how that would work." Leo was being honest as he considered it. "Perhaps if you said it a bit differently." He spoke, clearly thinking on it. "If you wish to embrace the other me then perhaps asking politely would help." He knew such a thing would catch him by surprise. Perhaps it would be enough to actually befuddle his other half enough to let the older male do that much. Something he would love to do himself right now. He didn't really consider it so strange he wanted to be close to the other male. It was something he found he had a liking to and he didn't question things he liked in general. Especially when it wasn't something that could kill him. And he couldn't see the other male hurting him in any way. If only his other half could see that as well.

The comment on what was said towards his suggestion on sex had him smirking just a bit. He wouldn't have said it if he hadn't meant it would. Though he wasn't above lying if he had to. But he couldn't quite think to do so with this fellow. It really was strange. But really what he said he thought would help in some way and wasn't just because he was sure he would enjoy it. He supposed it could go both ways though. But if he felt strongly enough about it then perhaps that would get through to other him. Then again if it didn't he more then likely would have a horrified other half and make things worse. It was probably better not to chance. "I don't suppose it would without great risk." He was being honest with that. The last thing the other Leo needed was to find himself bedded by another male and note recall how it occurred. That would only come to reinforce the negative feeling his other half.

The only difference here would have been that he chose to do so and his body desired it, it wasn't just all words with no feelings, and that was a new thing. Something he hoped would help if it got through to the other male. He would have liked to say not all sexual encounters were bad but he had only slept with one person and that was all purely bad from the start. Although he was thinking to dump the idea for the other Leo his own personal desired remained. Hearing what Kobe said especially enabled him to linger on the subject. It seemed awfully...decent of him to consider the consequences. Though both being male he couldn't imagine there being anything other then the sex itself. He knew if he had sex it would be impossible to miss by the other Leo. It wasn't like Leo hadn't seen the other male without clothes and he saw that if he ever did take him to bed he would certainly be feeling the effects in the morning. Something the other Leo would feel and panic about later without a doubt. It was definitely not the way to go until things were figured out between them.

Leo couldn't bring himself to comment towards what Kobe said next. Not towards what he said about making his other half comfortable. To that he gave a slight nod to. It was with what was said next he found his gaze locked on to the food he seemed intent on focusing on and eating as he went about doing now, taking a sip of the orange juice he had brought as he did so. Although he couldn't deny he found he felt something he couldn't think to put into words with what Kobe said. Perhaps because he wasn't familiar with what he felt. Or at least hadn't felt it in a long time. Feeling what it was like to really have one sounding as if they cared. He somehow was sure it wasn't just for show. Though he couldn't tell what the growl was about. It rather surprised him but he didn't go to show it. He merely set about eating the rest of his food actually unsure of what to say. Though he was an honestly blunt person that subject always seemed to be one he couldn't completely cross over either. It had him understanding how the other Leo felt but still it didn't get to him like it did his other half. He chose not to let it. It just seemed the other Leo went a different way with things.

Suddenly lost in his thoughts for a moment, thinking of anything other then what he brought up himself, he didn't bother to look up at either of his guests. Unlike his other half it wasn't like he was saddened or forlorn. More like he was...a bit downtrodden about his thoughts. But he quickly went to thinking about what he needed to and anything else to change the subject. Something that bothered him to no end in general but he supposed he couldn't help it. Like he knew he couldn't blame his other half for being the way he was. It wasn't like he could say he wasn't bothered by it at all which said it wasn't something even he could easily cast aside. He just felt in general he needed to get over it. One couldn't change the past and he only looked towards what the future held so it made no sense to be bothered by anything. Didn't stop his thoughts though.

It was only Kobe's voice that had him focusing on him with what he was saying. It was unexpected to hear the question referring to the previously brought up solution or what he would have hoped was. "I'd be lying if I said the me at present didn't wish to." He would, he still did want to though he was sure his other half wouldn't. "You say we can't have sex but is there nothing else we can do in bed." He tried to hint towards what he thought would be obvious. "I can do more then talk with my mouth you know." He hoped that helped if it wasn't already obvious. He didn't have to have the other male have sex with him to actually pleasure him. Which was a bit of an odd thought. He never really focused on just giving other pleasures. It however was an idea from him so he supposed he got something out of it. He wouldn't have the larger male inside of him, something he supposed he was a bit unsure about, just a bit, and not simply because of his other half.

It had been a long time since Leo had been intimate like that with anyone so he wondered how the other male would feel inside him. Perhaps he shouldn't have thought on it though. It left him with his own images that actually got him quite heated up but he didn't blush. He may have looked just a bit flushed but that was it. Well, it wasn't simply due to the thought of having the other male inside him. He imagined his mouth in a certain place and would admit he wondered what the other male tasted like. In fact as he thought it he unconsciously licked his lips in a slow and provocative way. If that was possible with simply his thoughts alone. No doubt and no comparison could be set with the current Leo and the one not present. The other Leo wouldn't have let his thoughts linger anywhere near what he was thinking or would get into how he was feeling now. Rather warm and uncomfortable in his clothes.

Moving along though, which wasn't so easily done for him at the moment, he tried to focus on the present. Something he always seemed to be losing track of as he suddenly thought to speak. He realized he was done eating himself. He never ate that much to begin with. So he found himself standing up suddenly but not so quickly as to topple the chair. "If you are done then I will take your plate to clean up." He spoke this already moving now to head towards the sink with everything that included just his plate and the remained of orange juice he had he decided to drink the rest along the way. If he was in a position to he would have kissed the other male, without a doubt, however it was disappointing he wasn't close enough to do so as he headed straight to the sink where he stopped and set forth cleaning up everything he had before him. Which included the dirty pots and pans he had which meant he wasted no time in turning on the sinks water.

[clementine]

Leo’s words and seeming discontentment rankled Kobe deeply. He didn’t know what had caused the strange double personality in Leo and vowed to find out later. Thinking on what had been said, he concluded that obviously Leo and been touched in so ill a way that it had simply scarred the boy for life. The lion didn’t even want to begin imagining what exactly could have happened to Leo. It was just making him angrier the more he thought about it. If anyone dared to look as HIS mate with animosity, he would put a stop to it. Permanently. Thinking on what he would do to the person who hurt Leo served to settle him somewhat.

He hated knowing that Leo felt so poorly. Even without saying so he could feel that this Leo was just as seemingly hopeless as the first one. Gods, how he wanted to comfort the human. It occurred to him that he could, knowing that this Leo didn’t demand that he ask first. However, against his Instinct, Kobe didn’t move, not knowing if Leo wanted to be touched in his moment of thought. Distracting himself, Kobe ate the last bit of food in front of him, making sure that Ferris also had his fill. The toddler was pretty much done, opting to gum the silverware as he had been doing before. Kobe let him for the moment, wanting the baby to be distracted so that he could talk to Leo more.

It was startling to here his mate speak in such a forward way. “I’m sure that your are very…ah, proficient Leo, but I have to admit that if I ever got you in bed, I‘d ravish you completely.” Kobe managed, squirming a little at the thought of the boy’s mouth on him. He thought it best to tell the truth though. As much as he wanted to fuck Leo senseless, he couldn’t. Kobe knew that if he saw Leo even partially naked, he even up taking the boy as quickly as he could. It was better not to tempt fate in such a way…but boy was it going to be hard!

The way in which Leo licked his lips slowly had Kobe swallowing convulsively. Leo was so beautiful and lush that the lion had to dash away any idea of burying himself deeply within the boy. The lion stared openly at his little mate. Although Leo didn’t look too flush, he could still smell the sexual energy radiating off the boy. It took all that Kobe hate not to jump the boy right then. His cock was so stiff that he was sure he would come if he continued to watch that pink tongue gloss over such full lips. Kobe tore his gaze away, determined not to watch anymore even though he desperately wanted to as he discreetly palmed the front of his jeans.

Kobe was relieved that Leo moved to do the dishes. He looked up at the boy and it proved to be his undoing. That little body just begged to be taken! What was the matter with him? He had never been so sexually driven before. Kobe knew it just had to be the mate bond pushing him forward to hurry and claim his mate. He had more self control than this, even though it was unraveling quickly. He breathed gustily, setting Ferris back down on the floor.

Under the pretext of taking his own dirty dishes to the sink, Kobe came up behind Leo, pressing his hard body into the boy’s back. He set the plates into the sink, not caring that his arousal was obvious. He would have sex with the boy but he would have a kiss dammit. At that, Kobe grasped Leo’s chin with his thumb and forefinger, gently turning the boy’s head towards him. He found Leo’s full mouth, still feeling the dampness from when the boy’s tongue had slipped over them. The lion moaned then, deeply satisfied from the intimate contact. He’d be fine if he could do this to Leo every now and then. Since there would be no sex then there at least would be lost of kisses.

Kobe mouth was firm against Leo’s, while still being utterly gentle. The boy would pull away at any time and though the lion would regret it, he would let the human go. For now though, he reveled in the passionate kiss while knowing he had never really experienced such a thing before.

[Kago]

Leonardo really felt far room warm in his current attire. He felt the need to sigh suddenly, for obvious reasons with how he felt, but left it at a mental sigh. What more could he do then that. Well, that and go on to do what he needed to. Starting with cleaning up the mess that was made. He wouldn't say it but it was sort of a habit he had grown into. That is, cleaning up messes which was always something he did in the past. He was expected to clean and then at some point he just did it because he felt he had to. Which was the case back then but now things were a bit different. He had a choice but he wasn't fond of messes to begin with. It was nice to know however that he would never be punished in anyway for forgetting to do something or not doing something 'right'. That being doing something in a particular way that was just about impossible. But thinking on that now would really get him off. That is he didn't need to be anywhere close to be as downtrodden or downright depressed as his other half so he focused on the present. A reason why he only encouraged that and thought it over and over again when he found his thoughts wandering.

Kobe's words certainly didn't go unheard. In fact he was sure his temperature was rather high now. Or so it felt with how he did. He still wasn't blushing at such words though. No, that was something his other half would do at some point but not him. It just seemed so overly...odd or maybe not. He couldn't even think to compare this with anything or anyone else. He rarely had the chance to behave in such a manner and certainly nothing that lead up to any action. No, he was sure no matter what happened it wouldn't have lead to anything. It would have been nothing but flirting if anything. This here, what was going on now, felt completely different. Well, at least in a way he really did feel he wanted to do something. He couldn't quite explain it other then the fact that the other male was attractive. But he had seen other attractive males. None like him though. Certainly not. But he didn't think about that in detail. He didn't need to think anything more at all. He already felt as if he could have simply rid himself of clothing. If not simply to help lessen the heat that suddenly overcame him. It really was strange to him but he wasn't complaining.

To help divert his thoughts and how his temperature seemed to have risen he focused on washing the dishes. He would hope Kobe brought his own. If not he would gladly pick them up himself and come back to wash them. Perhaps while he did that he could give him a kiss. Simply one upon the cheek but not due to lack of not wanting a more intimate one. It was just if he came from behind or at his side that was the only quick thing he could do from the angle he was at. Trying anything else would just have him lingering and though he would admit he already settled with the thought of not having sex even he could be tempted to change that thought. Just a bit. Not by much. His desire to make sure things didn't take a turn worse was stronger then the sudden need to be intimate with the other male. That was something he still thought about. He had to hope Kobe could manage his other half enough to at least get him accustomed to him. From what he saw things had been going well enough but then the hug suddenly changed things drastically and here he was. Well, hopefully things would go different with the other Leo next time. It was all he could hope for though he supposed he could try to help things along other then the advice he gave. It was just he really couldn't talk to himself and he didn't think doing so would really help. Well, he couldn't be sure. Perhaps a letter. He hadn't considered he ever needed to but perhaps writing to himself would come to show something positive. It was better then not doing anything, right? He hoped it would but it could always have the opposite effect. Just thinking on it exasperated him a bit. All the more reason to focus on the dishes.

That was what Leo intended to do as he stood in front of the sink. He had begun to wash the dishes before him and the pots and pans he used. He however did not get far. He found himself pausing though as Kobe came along. He was expecting him to come eventually he just wasn't expecting what happened then exactly. Not what he felt then which went with the desire he already had to do things with the larger male or what he felt as he imagined that the other male certainly seemed to have been telling the truth with what he wanted to do. With the fact it seemed he may really have wanted him. But then it left him wondering why he couldn't accept his other offer. Would he really not be able to hold back. He was tempted to see what would happen but even he didn't care to risk it. Not with what the consequences he knew of would be. He didn't want to male things worse. He needed to try and make them better.

It was unexpected enough to have the other male press up against him but suddenly Leo found himself being kissed. It seemed to happen so suddenly while at the same time very slowly. He both seemed to have an idea of what was going to happen and then he didn't. Perhaps slightly confusing but all the same he didn't pull back from the initial kiss. Definitely not. He instead found himself kissing back with just as much fervor. After all he had just been thinking about kissing the man so it was a pleasant surprise he received. One he wasn't going to waste. He wanted to take as much time as he could. Knowing what he couldn't have and may not ever have really. He didn't know how long Kobe would be here and didn't expect him to stick around when the time came for him to go. Where he would be left alone making him wonder what the point of doing any of this was. If he was going to leave him then he supposed getting along was the best he had to accomplish. Anything further just left him at a loss but he wasn't thinking about that now. No. He was simply lost in the kiss.

The kiss wasn't helping cool Keo down. He found himself, without thinking on it really, that wasn't a lie, moving to grind up against the other male. Something he would have been curious to see the response of but then at the same time a bit frustrated. Well, the man knew there would be know sex. Would kissing really help. He felt it would while at the same time he felt it did. But he couldn't really satisfy himself with a kiss. Not with what he wanted to do with the other male. But even he knew it would have to do. At least until his other half could feel something for the other male himself. That he realized was his ultimate goal of sorts. Something he had to do as soon as possible but he still couldn't just get over his past entirely. It was bad for him but worse for his other half and he was helpless. He felt that way at least. He could do nothing to stop what he knew should stop or get over what he knew he should. It just didn't seem like a thing he could get away from. Something he was hoping wasn't the case but would be proven one way or another with how things progressed. Perhaps this would all be for naught when it came time for Kobe to take off. He would have accomplished nothing but having pleasant company and perhaps a few intimate moments that only went as far as kissing.

Oh Leo would have loved to keep going with the kiss. He however could not or his hands would wander and he had to mentally beret himself to stop from doing so. That was when he pulled away, letting out an ever so faint but audible sigh. It should have been obvious he was reluctant to pull back but he had to. He needed to finish cleaning up everything. "I have to finish this." He needed to before anything else happened. Whether that referred to his soon to have been wandering hands or his other half coming out. A hug was bad enough with triggering unwanted memories a kiss wouldn't be any better. Although even if he left and the other Leo came back now his feelings and desires wouldn't instantly vanish and then he would have a chance to feel exactly how he felt. Although he wouldn't understand it it wouldn't be so easily brushed aside. Even when the thoughts he had didn't continue with what he knew to be thoughts of intimacy he should have.

It was bad to picture being taken by the larger male as it was bad to imagine him suddenly taking him in his mouth. Such thoughts set Leo practically aflame. Or what he felt was like him being on fire. Far too warm. That's how he felt now. So it was a good thing he had stopped kissing him. It was a good thing he could turn back to washing the dishes which he did. Something he set to doing as he got his hands wet cleaning up the dishes as quickly as he could manage. "After this then we can go out." He felt he said that just to speak and not get lost in his own thoughts that completely seemed to contradict his common sense. He didn't need to go back kissing the larger male, at least not yet, if he did he wouldn't get anywhere and really kissing wasn't the only thing he wanted to do. It was for that very reason he needed to help things progress or simply hope that his other half would share something from him other then the things they already had in common.

[clementine]

Feeling Leo’s lithe body ground against his own made Kobe such in a breath for control. Who knew that a single person could make him feel so horny. Never before had he been so aroused by the presence of another. He was not virgin, but being with Leo sparked something different inside of him. He knew that this was the mate bond yet again and it seemed that it delighted coming up and torturing him again and again. Kobe yearned for Leo body just a he yearned for the boy’s affection. He knew that his own feeling of protectiveness and infatuation would soon grow to a deeply sown love. The lion could only guess that the current Leo probably just put up with him being around. It was an easy feat to want to have sex with someone. Knowing this gave Kobe confidence. At least he wasn’t so undesirable. Still though, he wanted Leo to like him and seemed to think that was impossible. At the moment at least. It just looked like the current Leo wanted him for the sex and the dormant Leo didn’t want him at all. This thought was a little unsettling for Kobe and he tried not to think too deeply on it.

Such thoughts were hard pressed to keep his attention, especially with Leo right in front of him. All too soon the boy was pulling away from him, turning back to do the dishes. Kobe sighed himself. He could still feel his mate’s need brushing against him hotly. To him, Leo just seemed so needy and his Instincts were telling him to sate his mate. He was a virulent male after all. He could give Leo everything and anything while satisfying the boy’s lustful desire. Kobe shook his head. He couldn’t. He continued to tell himself that sex with Leo was completely out of the question. He knew that he should just back off and keep his distance, yet every time this happened, he was drawn back to Leo like a magnet. The boy would do something that would set Kobe’s pulse racing and he could barely keep himself from reacting.

As much as he wanted to continue with Leo, he didn’t. Kobe let out a shuddering sigh, his breath stirring the hair at Leo’s nape. The lion didn’t completely back off though. He had his arms placed to either side of Leo, holding the edge of the counter top in a death grip. He wasn’t touching the human anymore, but he may as well have been. There was barely an inch between both their bodies and still Kobe could feel ever inch of Leo. He drew in a deep breath trying to fortify himself, only to have his senses overtaken by the heady scent of lavender that he knew to be this particular Leo’s scent. Now that he recognized the smell it was all the more overpowering.

“I will take control of myself.” Kobe murmured, his voice husky with need. He said this more to himself than to Leo. His mouth was just beside the boy’s ear. Oh, how he wanted to kiss the human senseless. His determination wavered and he was but a breath away from licking the shell of Leo’s ear well Ferris let out a tiny wail of irritation. It was enough to break the lusty hold on Kobe and he pushed himself away from Leo, never actually have touched the boy since the kiss had been broken.

Kobe drew his self control about him like a coat, tyring to keep out the delightful thoughts of how he would claim his mate. His dark gazed flinted to a rather put out looking Ferris. It seemed the toddler didn’t like the object of his affections ignoring him. It was just the distraction Kobe needed. He all but pounced on Ferris, the child giggling in delight.

“I’ve never been to this…place before. I should very much like to see it.” Kobe replied, turning to watch Leo, his sudden lustiness having abated as quickly as it had come. For the time anyway. Kobe knew his need would only get worse. “Do you need help with the dishes?” He asked out of courtesy, but hoped that Leo declined. He wasn’t so sure it was wise to get so close the boy.

Smiling, he turned his attention away from his curious mate, seeming carefree as he hoisted Ferris up into his arms. He was ready to go whenever Leo was and tried not to think about the difficult path ahead of him.

[Kago]

Leonardo really found himself more then slightly annoyed at the outcome of things. Not the part where breakfast worked out but the part where it seemed he wouldn't be able to do a thing with Kobe. It seemed rather unfair in a way. That he had to worry about his other half at all. But that was why he was here. Not to worry but it keep things in order. He supposed that was how he would put it. He wasn't here to make chaos for the other Leo which was what he would do if he had sex with the other male. If he had sex in general really. But he never really cared for it before. Well, he did but not so much to want to do it, really do it, with anyone else. It made things more harder to deal with but he was sure he would get over it. He knew he wouldn't die from such a thing. His strong desires to be intimate with the other male was just that. A desire he could quell down. At least until the point he could really be intimate with Kobe. If that ever happened. Just thinking about the 'if' part made him wonder why he tried. Or why he cared to go so far. It would have been easier if he could tell his own body how to react. To make him settle down with the idea of being patient or perhaps not caring so much. Not that he would say he cared that much. He just never wanted anyone like this before. It was odd but something that was just that. He didn't need to make anything more of it. Besides his other half had to come to terms with a few things or reach a certain point with the larger male he was with now.

The dishes, in Leo's estimate, would be done with in a few minutes. He didn't linger about when cleaning. Besides not only did he want to hurry to leave but he needed to have something to focus on. That and the cold water felt relatively nice with how warm he was. Warm not because of the head but because of the older male he was with. Because he knew what he wanted to do and thinking on it didn't help. It's what he mentally told himself as he hurried with washing the dishes. That and maybe a cold bath would help. Really he was thinking about it. If he wasn't going to be able to do anything with Kobe then that was something that he was thinking would help him divert his thoughts. That and literally have it cool him down. Something he considered doing for a moment but then he brushed the idea away. At least for now. There was no way he would be leaving soon if he did that. Besides he was sure he could just put it aside. He had to. Especially if he wanted to take care of things before the other Leo returned. His current situation, with how his body felt, was definitely not one he would wish to be in.

It would have helped if Kobe didn't come remain so close for so long. He could feel his breathe on him and couldn't help but mentally sigh himself. He really didn't care to show anymore signs of how he desired the other male. Not that he was thinking to keep it a secret. He didn't think he could if he wanted to. But he really needed to stop it. If his mind got too distracted with these thoughts he'd be going back to kiss the older male. Not that it would be bad to. He at least didn't see it as being bad. It was just thoughts of being far too intimate then he needed to be right now came to mind and even he knew he couldn't let that happen. He couldn't go any further until the other Leo was alright with Kobe as well. But he supposed it wasn't quite fair to want something so badly that his other half surely would not. But it wasn't exactly fair he would have to keep away from the other male just because of his other half either. It really was something he needed do something about. That being he had to figure out how to get his other half at least comfortable with the other male. Something he'd think more into when he got back after going outside.

It was a relief of sorts to have Kobe go off to tend to Ferris. He briefly glanced at him at the corner of his eyes before just focusing on on the dished. He was just about finished so it really wouldn't be long now. In fact he was finishing the last dish he had to wash and setting it off to dry in the dishwasher he had. The first thing he did was move to dry his hands in a towel he had set off to the side. Now he needed to head to his room to retrieve his wallet then he could leave with Kobe. Something he was thinking to do as he noted the question asked by the older man. "Actually I've got it and I finished." He spoke this, with a faint smile towards getting that done and over with before he moved out of the kitchen. Now he needed to go and get his wallet then he could leave.

"Give me a moment and we'll be leaving soon." With this said Leo didn't waste any time lingering about as he exited the kitchen and headed straight towards his bedroom. He really wanted to hurry before his other half returned. The last thing they needed was any sort of confusion and delays. He knew if his other half came now it would only serve to keep them here longer. After what happened it shouldn't be a surprise to anyone. His other half would start off where he considered he had last been. After he tried to consider the long blank here. He wasn't sure how long but certainly long enough to get things done. He at least hoped so. It was what he was thinking as he came into his bedroom going straight towards where he left his wallet. It was on the dresser which was where he went as he soon enough plucked it off and placed it his his pocket. Now what more did he need to do. He didn't think there was anything else.

Briefly Leo considered what he would need to do before leaving as he looked about his room. There really was nothing so he moved to exit the room as soon as possible which was right then and there. He supposed he could have pondered on changing his clothes but he'd do that whenever he took a bath and he did plan to take one sooner then later. Definitely when he came back. Even if he had to be dormant himself at the time. His other half didn't exactly like feeling dirty either. At least considering he hadn't taken a bath since yesterday. It was definitely something he wasn't sure he was going to waste what time he had left here doing. If he could help it he wouldn't. Though if he could perhaps... Now his thoughts wandered where they shouldn't. Considering taking a bath with the older male was definitely out of the question. Not simply for obvious reasons, things they needed to avoid, but because someone had to watch the toddler. So nothing would be happening and that wasn't entirely a bad thing or not one at all really. Especially with his other half considered.

It was with the slightly tempting thoughts he exited the bedroom and moved straight towards the kitchen. Or rather where he left Kobe with Ferris. It was only as he came up to him did he speak. "We can leave now." With that said he turned to move straight towards the door expecting Kobe to follow with the toddler in his arms. Now was a good time to think on what they needed so he did. He did this as he slipped into his shoes and moved to open the door. He nearly forgot his keys but he grabbed them on his way out of the bedroom before. He had to lock the door after all so it was just a must. That's why he opened the door for Kobe to go outside with the child before he actually exited himself, being sure to lock the door himself.

Now Leo had to lead them off to the store. Briefly he considered that he may have forgotten something. Well, he sort of had. He didn't bother checking himself in the bathroom. He only hoped he didn't look bad. Not that he cared what others thought but but he didn't like the idea of looking the slightest bit disheveled in public. Not that he had a problem with it. It was sort of just another habit of him. To make sure he looked proper or appropriate. It wasn't a good thing to look disturbed in anyway. Something that had needed to be taken care of before. That is, looking a bit...roughed up or bothered by something was a definite not done kind of thing. For reasons that were obvious to himself. He was use to keeping things to himself and that was how it should be. Well, awhile back it was, now he just minded the fact that he care to catch anyone's eye because he didn't look entirely presentable. That wasn't the case though. Not here with his appearance. He was really making a big deal out of nothing. His hair was the only thing disheveled was his hair and that was just a bit. He was tempted to ask Kobe how he looked but didn't bother. He didn't want to hear anything that would make him go back inside. He was not going to waste anymore time here.

"Just follow me." Leo decided to just lead the way without much conversation. He was lucky there was really just a short walk to the nearby store. One that should have all their needs. At least referring to the baby stuff they needed. It was a supermarket so it had more then that but right now he merely focused on getting things he thought Ferris would need. If he could he knew he'd spoil him but he didn't think he had enough time to do so. "It's not far from here." Going down the stairs from his home he said that and soon enough found himself walking along the sidewalk. Coming outside made him wonder something though. Nothing that made him stop but just consider a few things as he walked along. Where had Kobe come from? Not where he was born but where he was before he had busted into his apartment. He wondered if for a moment but wasn't sure if he cared to know. Just in the way that he didn't want to hear anything he didn't though he didn't know if that was possible in this situation. He had nothing he came to expect or think negatively of. He didn't want anything to think negatively of either so he pushed that out of his mind. Besides the store he was going to really was close by. That and a few other stores but the supermarket was the one they would go out and that was it for the moment.

Leo could in fact now see the place he was going to. It was just a straight walk along the sidewalk so he didn't have to cross the street. It was just along the side of the road. Something really convenient for them. Well, him originally. That and the art store nearby. This place was pretty big though so it took up quite a bit of room. The art store was actually across the street. He had no intention of crossing the street right now though. "The place we are going to is just up ahead." Leo thought to add, just to let the other male know. He should know where they were going and why they were going so saying anything more in detail was just unnecessary. He figured also when he entered he would grab a shopping cart. Who knows what else they would need besides what was stated verbally already.

Considering the idea of a shopping cart once he entered the store he did just that. He came to a stop by the area at the front of the store that had a shopping cart. "I think we'll need this." He spoke, thoughtfully as he considered it. He also wondered if perhaps the toddler could sit in front part of the cart as well. He wasn't sure how big he was though. Well, he wouldn't put him to walk. That is, he would carry Ferris himself given the option to if he couldn't take a ride there. Not that he was alone that he had to. It was just considering the options he had. "If Ferris could fit we could push him around in this." He motioned towards a cart he had pulled out. He was rather looking forward to getting what they needed now. But he was minding what was going on at the moment then he would focus on what he had to buy.

[clementine]

Kobe waited patiently for Leo and followed the boy out of the house and down the street. Their walk was silent as there was really not much to say. Leo was quick and to the point, striking out head long. He trudged sedately behind his mate, swinging Ferris up so that the toddler sat comfortable on his broad shoulders. It was again he wondered if Leo would ever want to have children. He clenched his jaw at the thought, telling himself not to think of it. It would only lead to idea of how he would get Leo with child and that was bad. It would do him no good to go getting himself all heated up again right after he had cooled down.

While he let Leo lead, he still walked closely behind the boy. Not so close as to invade the human’s space but close enough to say that “this is mine.” Kobe honestly didn’t feel comfortable letting Leo outside. He knew he shouldn’t worry though. It’s not like this place was Zerca were there was a chance that his unmarked mate could be taken. He was still uneasy though, keeping close to Leo and pointedly looking at other people if their gaze drifted to the boy. When he wasn’t glaring at the other pedestrians, Kobe was looking curiously about him, taking in all the sights that Earth had to offer. It was all very tame looking, he thought. All the humans looked a little bland and there wasn’t much difference between them. Except for Leo. Kobe thought he was the most beautiful one of the bunch and couldn’t help but look fondly at the boy as he walked gracefully in front of him.

When Leo spoke, Kobe swung his attention to the supermarket. At least that’s what the building said so he assumed that that was what it was called. There were many people going in and out of it, some of them giving Kobe odd looks as he moved closer. He wasn’t sure why they were staring at him. Maybe it was because he had Ferris with him? He wasn’t sure. He knew that it was probably odd seeing a baby riding on the shoulders on a rather disheveled looking man. While Leo seemed completely perfect, Kobe’s hair was a little greasy and stiff with dirt and he was wearing a shirt that fluttered open as he walked, exposing his upper torso. Humans were so strange.

“Can we get everything we need here?” Kobe asked skeptically as he looked at the shopping cart that Leo had pulled out. He eyed the thing curiously and wondered why Ferris would sit in it. Wouldn’t it make it more difficult to push? He shrugged, looking over the cart. It was obvious that Ferris would sit in the small space behind the bar. The toddler would surely fit, not being that big. He was rather small for a child his age. Gently, Kobe removed a wriggling Ferris from off his shoulders, wincing a little when the baby grabbed a hunk of his hair, pulling.

Kobe got the toddler secured in the front of the cart, albeit a few missing hairs on his end. Ferris was rather excited about all of this, never having been in such a vehicle before. The baby was burbling and cooing to himself as he gazed around with big walnut shaped eyes. He too was getting stares but only because he looking absolutely adorable with his chubby face breaking in a wide smile every time he spotted something that moved.

“Well, he fits.” Kobe said rather pointlessly. He was finding himself at a loss for words. Again. The only thing he really knew about Leo was that the boy had two different personalities and that the current one wanted to have sex with him. This proved a problem for Kobe. He wanted to know more about his mate. As much as possible before nightfall actually. What if he suddenly had to up and leave? He certainly wasn’t going to leave Leo by himself. He would take the boy with him and wanted to be sure the human would be willing. There was nothing worse than forcing your mate to do anything.

“So, Leo.” Kobe started a little awkwardly as he spotted a baby isle and moved towards it. That looked promising. “What do you like to do? I’m finding that I really don’t know anything about you and I would like to know more.” He turned to looked at Leo, his face earnest in his questions. He really did want to know more.

[Kago]

Leonardo was starting to mentally go over all the baby things they would need. He was sure they could go in and come out soon enough with all the items. He didn't want to hurry or rush them. Well, not quite. He sort of did if only for the sake of ensuring they did this all without any problems. It wasn't like his time here was timed so he didn't care to take chances. It was straight to the baby aisle and then he figured they would be leaving. It wasn't like he needed anything for himself. Not at the moment. If anything he'd leave any personal shopping to his other half. He generally found having to shop not a very interesting task. He didn't even bother to think he wanted to give it a try. He didn't. He knew what was usually shopped for. Even if he wasn't present he noted everything that happened. But shopping wasn't dangerous thing so he wasn't really needed. But that didn't matter at this point. He was here for a reason and he intended to do exactly what he came for.

"We can." Leo wasted no time in answering the asked question. "Unless it's something that isn't found on this planet." He said that as a joke of sorts. Really, supermarkets in general had just about everything people needed. It was a rather silly question to ask but then he had a feeling he was dealing with a sci-fi scenario. He wouldn't be surprised if he found out Kobe was an alien. Really, with what he'd seen so far with that other creature it seemed very possible. He was either an alien or a demon and the guy didn't strike him as evil. Though he didn't think demons in general were necessarily evil. He just meant he didn't strike him as someone who looked demonic. But what did he expect an alien to look like? It really wasn't worth taking the time to think over. All he thought somewhat firmly on was that Kobe and Ferris weren't human. He at least felt that whatever Kobe was Ferris was too. That was something he needed to ask about later though he supposed the topic in general was an odd one to tread. Well, better him then his other half.

Sapphire blue orbs found themselves looking about for a moment before looking back at Kobe who took up on his offer to put Ferris in the shopping cart. It was nice to see he fit. He briefly wondered if the toddler would enjoy the push about the store. It was really cute to see how the toddler reacted to where he had been put. He was really just adorable. Something that Leo could agree on with his other half. He scarcely recalled he had said the word or thought it when he held the child this morning. Considering similarities he wanted to do just as much as the other Leo cared to or was the other was around. He didn't suppose it mattered. Either way it just meant that both he and his other half agreed on something else.

Hearing Kobe state the obvious he couldn't help but smile a bit. It was just a bit amusing. He wasn't sure if he should bother to say anything so he didn't. He merely prepared to push the cart. He first needed to locate where he was headed though and he knew where that was though he never did anything but pass through it. Not for the heck of it but just to get to the back of the store. There were things back there but he had no reason to go there so he would stick with the baby aisle. It was the only way to go in and get out quickly after he paid for everything.

It was unexpected to hear Kobe speak. Not that he didn't expect him to talk. It was just he noted the baby aisle himself and was simply going to head there and get everything and that was it. He really just focused on that so it was unexpected in that way. All the same he did listen as he came to push the cart with the toddler in it who he couldn't help but find adorable. Watching him actually made him consider the idea of having kids at some point in time. If he could ever find some woman he cared for. He doubted he would though so it wasn't likely. He still had his hopes up. Well, somewhat at least. None of it was a must. Simply his desire towards what he found a pleasant experience. If that made any sense. He wasn't thinking on it in detail.

Did he hear correctly? Had Kobe asked him what he liked to do? Well, that was a definite yes. If he didn't know any better he would say he was trying to get to know him better. Was he? For what reason he wouldn't know. Well, besides the fact he cared to be intimate with him and perhaps that would help with his other half. It was still puzzling why he cared to learn about him at all though. He considered earlier today where it seemed the other male was really holding himself back even though it seemed he wanted to take him. He could only assume it was due to the fact his other half, the other Leo, wouldn't care to be with this guy much at all. Was it for considering of his other half. That's why he agreed with not doing anything. It wouldn't bode well to do that with his other half's already damaged psych. He wasn't lacking in knowledge of his existence. It's why he was here. To keep things from getting much worse. And he knew himself well enough to know that it could. Sex would not make things better. He imagined though Kobe seemed to be a rather kind fellow. The fact he hadn't been forceful or forced himself upon him period. But then he really couldn't imagine anyone with a kid being that mean. Then again he was reminded that wasn't quite true. Well, in any case Kobe was a rather interesting fellow.

"I don't suppose you mean just me or in general me and the other Leo." He figured he meant in general and really didn't think to wait for an answer or a response. "Well, there's a few differences but the things we have in common are art, cooking and cleaning." The last two were habit formed but he couldn't help but find even himself fond of doing it now. It was rather hard not to. "There isn't much to know about me." Being satisfied with the little he had so far he never bother to explore anything else. "As long as I have the first especially I really don't anything." He meant his current life was one that was relatively content. But the current Leo desired just a little more while the other Leo would deter away from change. That was just one of the few or perhaps many things he could disagree on with himself. He didn't dislike his current lifestyle he just wasn't completely satisfied with it.

Considering if there was anything more he could say on it Leo noted that they had finally reached the baby aisle. "Do you know everything you need?" Leo found himself asking this as he looked towards Kobe. "Just pick up anything we need to buy and put it in the cart." He came to a stop with the cart and remained where he was as he took the time to look over what was on the shelves. He knew basically what toddlers needed but he wasn't quite sure what Ferris needed and if he needed anything in specific that only Kobe knew about. Considering that he wasn't sure how long the two were staying at his home he supposed he needed to get a bit of everything. Like diapers, as he doubted the child was able to use the toilet, and he didn't forget the formula. He wondered if he needed to get any particular type of baby food or if he needed baby food at all. He also wanted to get Ferris something to play with but the essentials were more important then the little things. He just made a mental note of getting something after.

[clementine]

The mental scale inside of Kobe’s head readily deduced that, yes, Leo was probably joking. It had taken a moment to kick in though and he had almost opened his mouth and agreed with the boy. That would have been disastrous. He didn’t even know if Leo even kind of, sort of liked him. He wasn’t about to blow his chance to pieces by some passing comment. Wisely, Kobe did not reply as he pottered towards the children’s isle. Bad things would have happened. Of course this store held nothing on Zerca. Duh. He mentally kicked himself for his moment of idiocy.

“Art?” Kobe answered thoughtfully instead to his asked question. That was what he latched on to. There really wasn’t much to say on the cooking and cleaning. His own life-giver did that. “Would you show me sometime? I know that’s kind of personal, but I would love to see what you do.” Honestly, he would. Anything that Leo was interested in, Kobe was too. He wanted to see what his little mate did. With the boy having no apparent family…or lover for that matter, it made him wonder what he was doing with his life. It must be very quiet. Kobe knew that he wasn’t being fair in the least, but when you’re a captain and off fighting God only knew what, most everything else seemed boring. This probably showed that he fought a little too much, but he didn’t look deeply into this.

Not feigning his curiosity, Kobe peered at the shelves of baby items. Leo had said just throw them in the cart. Well, that’s what he would do then. “I think I know what all Ferris needs.” Granted his A.I. usually took care of all the items, but Kobe had used them enough to get the gist of them. He paused, picking up a container of powdered baby formula, reading the directions carefully. It seemed to be about the same. The only difference was that there was no warming enzymes in the powder to heat up the milk. This was really only to make things easier but he supposed it couldn’t be too hard to heat up a bottle.

Kobe went through a few brands of formula, choosing cautiously. He was going through his head all of Ferris’ changes. The toddler was about twelve months and was teething. He was way under twenty pounds, being small for his age. Kobe finally picked out a blue can of formula, deciding this it was the best one. He looked at Leo to see if this would do, just as he set the can in the cart. He had grabbed a couple, not knowing how much he would need.

“What do YOU like Leo? Not just what you both have in common. I want to know about you, specifically.” Kobe asked, picking up the conversation earlier. He meant the current Leo. The two Leos seemed different enough that there had to be different things about them. Of course they would have to have things in common, but he wanted to know how far this difference went. It was a rather boggling thought as he continued slowly down the isle, picking up essentials for Ferris from bottles to diapers and putting them into the cart.


The lion seemed to realize this his question had been a little random and a bit personal. “I don’t want you to think that I’m prying.” Kobe amended, looking to smile brightly at Leo. “I’m just really curios is all. You just seem so different from your…twin.” He used the word for lack of a better one. He supposed it was just Leo’s other half, but the two seemed separate in a way that he was having a difficult time seeing them both as the same person…unless they were. Jeez, this was confusing. Maybe both Leos were completely the same except parts of their personalities were made dominate in their respective selves.

Very soon, the cart was half full of baby things, the most important items being the formula and diapers. Kobe had also grabbed a couple jars of mushy baby food, but had a feeling that Ferris would rather have pancakes. He smiled to himself as he looked over a Leo. They really looked like a couple at the moment with their first child. He knew on Earth that males couldn’t conceive, but on Zerca it was quite natural. He wondered how Leo would take this along with the alien bit and decided to think on how he would tell the human.

[Kago]

Leonardo noted his little joke wasn't an amusing one. At least he noted that much with how Kobe said nothing and didn't seem to react to it. Well, he looked like he was thinking but the bottom line was that it wasn't funny and he just had to accept that. He didn't really care though. He just thought the general idea had been an amusing one. With the silly thought, it seemed so even if it was a possibility, that Kobe and Ferris were from another planet. He could see Kobe being one and seeing as how Ferris came with him he had to be the same. Definitely a sci-fi film and before he needed it he would find himself abducted. As if that would happen. Now he was sure he was thinking too much on this.

Was his answer confusing? Hearing Kobe repeat one of the words he had said made him wonder. But then he noted it wasn't really much of a question. It had no detail to it. Just that single word that he supposed must mean he needed or wanted to know about it in detail. But what more could he say. He liked to both look at art as well as create it himself. The thought of actually showing the bigger male anything would have never come to mind if it wasn't for the question he asked. Should he show him anything? He said he would love to see it but did he mean that. He supposed it wouldn't hurt to do so so he settled on the idea it. That is if he was still around. "You might have to ask that again later." He stated this just in case he was gone then. "Otherwise I wouldn't mind." He just wanted to state that in case it seemed he didn't. He really mind showing the other male anything. Though he would be wary of showing others his art in general, he never really invited people to see it, they could always see it in other places, that was how he made a living, he didn't expect Kobe would do anything to make him regret doing so.

It was good to know that Kobe had some idea of what he was looking for. He smiled a bit at this and directed his attention towards the shelves once more thinking he didn't really have to do anything himself if that were the case. Briefly however he looked towards Ferris and recalled he wasn't to get him a toy of some sort. Would a rattle satisfy the toddler. He didn't know his age but he figured no matter what he got it should be something to suit whatever the age group he appeared to be in. He supposed he had an idea of what he could get a he knew not just anything would do. The child was rather small so he couldn't settle with just anything. He found his gaze soon set on the particular part of the aisle that looked like it had a few toys he could choose from but he wasn't sure what he should get still.

While seeing Kobe moved to put everything they needed to get for the child, or rather everything he needed to get, he minded the toy idea for a moment. He didn't really want to go without getting him something. That idea was enough to encourage him to take so he noted which item he would pick up. He didn't miss when he was looked at though. It seemed he had just picked something up and looking at it himself, from where he stood, he simply gave a slight nod. It seemed good so he didn't think there was any problem with what Kobe picked up or how many he picked up. Now he supposed he should note everything the older male picked up. Who know, maybe one day he'd need to know it for his own kids. He wasn't quite sure on that idea but he was leaning towards it eventually. It was something he'd have to settle with his other half though. Something that made him want to sigh out loud but he held back. He needed to take this one step at a time. Whether or not he wanted kids he had to settle with a relationship first. He refused to be put in the same situation as his mother. A thought that made him rethink a few things but he wasn't going to dwell on it now.

It was the next question that Kobe asked that snapped Leo out of his momentarily lost in thought moment. So Kobe wanted to know about him specifically. Not him in general but the current Leo that was present. Well, that was unexpected but wasn't a problem. There was a moment of silence on his part as he thought of what to say. Things that differed him from the other Leo. "Well, I like things a little rough." That was the first thing he thought to mention that definitely differed from his other half. He knew he didn't add any detail on that but he thought about his reference in general. Unlike his other half who certainly wouldn't want anyone to treat him in such a manner. He didn't say anything else right away as he noted the older male was still picking things up as he went down the aisle. He moved accordingly when he thought it necessary.

It seemed Kobe thought he seemed to be prying. "I don't mind." He was a little bit more open then his other half or quite a bit actually. Being blunt and not caring to hide anything he thought he could share, without any dire consequences, he was definitely the one to talk to about anything in general. "I realize that you wouldn't get the same answer if you asked that question to the other Leo." He was amused at the term he used to describe his other half. He was just one person though, maybe not mentally, with one body he had to be considerate of. Something that in general frustrated the current Leo as he was sure he could have done something more with the other male he was with if that wasn't the case. Or at least he wouldn't have agreed with having to hold back. Meaning even if nothing would happen he would become quite the teaser. With the fact he knew he could really not do anything it simply left him frustrated and knowing if he did anything it would leave him just as wanting to do something as he did earlier. The thought he couldn't do anything just ruined the fun of having to go through it at all. Seeming to show it was alright to be in that state if something could happen but it wasn't if something could not. It was really rather bothersome. Not to seem childish in any way but thinking about it made him want to fold his arms and stomp his foot and argue with his other self. It was something he couldn't do however with how he couldn't talk to himself. Not in person at least. He might be able with some other means but at the moment he wasn't thinking to do anything.

"I don't know about my other half, he knew fairly well actually, but I'd like to have a kid someday." This was said a bit at random as Leo noted the cart filled with baby things. Although it seemed like it might be quite a bit of trouble or rather responsibility to do so he figured it would be a lot easier if he had someone he cared for there. That and he loved a good challenge. He didn't know if that would ever happen, knowing he'd need the right girl to do so with, but it was something he thought to still consider. Not something he'd consider in detail now though. "It's one of the things I'd like." He reasoned why he said what he had. It sort of fit the question that was asked of him. One he was still thinking on what to say. He wasn't sure about some things he thought to say but he was relatively sure on the next thing he had in mind to state. Something he thought on as he looked back towards the shelves to where he had seen the toys. He still wanted to get one at least.

Considering the toy he thought to get he figured he would ask about it first. Before moving to do anything though he thought to state the next thing he liked. With his overall situation he supposed it may be a bit odd but it was how felt. Well, it was what he felt he liked. "Another thing I like just happens to be standing right here with me." Hopefully he got what that was. It would be rather amusing if not a bit funny if he didn't. "That and the little person in the cart but not quite the same way as I like the one standing with me right now." He didn't mean to sound like he was the only here that liked the larger male but when it came down to it that was how it was. At least at the moment. Except he was sure his other half liked the toddler to begin with. He wasn't quite sure what he thought of Kobe now until he resurfaced. Something that would have him partially dormant. The partially coming in because he just couldn't do anything but he could note everything else. Something his other half couldn't do so he wouldn't know what happened while he was gone. Something that was both good and sometimes not so good but mostly good with all he had stored in his memory that the other Leo didn't.

It seemed they were ready to go now but before the left Leo still wanted to get something for Ferris to play with. Not thinking to say anything at first he suddenly moved to pick up a toy he found looked like it was both safe and could catch the child's attention for long periods of time. At least he hoped it would. If it didn't he just figured it wasn't fun. He didn't stand there and stare though. He just plucked up what he thought the toddler would like and moved to head back to the cart with it in hand. "Do you think Ferris would like this." He held it by the cart for Kobe to see before dropping it in. He had picked up what he saw was a soft rainbow stacker. One of those toys that he like a bunch of colored rings that went around this middle piece and had a rather large, at least medium sized really, ball at the top to top it off that seemed to have a random color as well but was only a solid single color to it as all the other pieces did. Except all the pieces to this were soft and not hard and sort of looked like little pillows in a way. It was alt least safe for Ferris to play with. He wasn't sure if he would though.

[clementine]

“I’ll remember that, about that art I mean.” Kobe said, pretty much done with getting what Ferris needed. In retrospect, he should have been buying all of these things himself. He was a dominant male here. That was his job. He didn’t have any money though and so he had to rely heavily on Leo. Kobe told himself that once they were back home, he would be the one providing. Leo was his mate and would be taken care of.

When Leo spoke of liking it rough, it took Kobe a moment what he was talking out. Sex. The boy liked rough sex. What else could it be? Leo couldn’t certainly like being smacked around by his lover. Kobe would never be able to provide that for the boy. The bed play was doable. He shut his thoughts off here. He did not need to be thinking about dominating Leo in bed. It just wouldn’t be good to think about it. What the human said next took Kobe wholly by surprise.

“You want to have children?” He asked in gleeful amazement. That just made him happy. Over the moon in fact. “Well that’s great!” Kobe couldn’t help but sound excited. The idea of Leo bearing his cubs seemed all the more closer now. He wondered how many babies Leo wanted to have. He wanted to ask, but refrained from doing so. He knew that would be a little weird. The lion had to remind himself that human males didn’t generally have children. Well, at least Leo wanted children. That was a step there. Once Kobe could convince him everything he thought things would be okay after that. He was getting ahead of himself though. They were still in the grocery store after all. Kobe’s mind was jumping to the future where he saw himself and Leo playing with their children on Zerca. It was definitely a white picket fence moment and he tried not to fixate on it. It would do no good to set himself up for disappointment. He would just have to take things one step at a time.

Kobe smiled widely at Leo, his face flushing. His heart nearly jumped into his throat from his over excitement. Leo liked him? Really liked him? Kobe couldn’t help but let his hope rise up in his chest. “Really?” He asked excitedly. He wasn’t so dense as to not understand Leo’s meaning. “I really like you to Leo.” He was about to say love but stopping himself from blurting that little tidbit out. He would hardly believe it himself. Kobe really did love Leo. Even just being with the boy for such a short time simply served to strengthen the mate bond.

Before he did anything else, Kobe pulled Leo into a one armed hug and kissed the top of the boy’s head. It was an endearing gesture. There wasn’t really anything sexual in it as Kobe just wanted to touch his little mate, not being able to stop himself. Especially after what Leo had said.

The lion looked at the toy that Leo picked up, then looked to Ferris who was happily chewing on the bar in front of him. It was really sweet of Leo to have thought of such a thing and that made Kobe smile. “I’m sure Ferris would like it very much, if only to chew on the pieces.” He chuckled. The toddler really did like to chew on stuff. He supposed it was all due to the slowly in coming teeth. He was glad the little cub would finally be getting teeth at all. Kobe had been waiting hopefully to see them.

“What do we do now?” Kobe asked curiously again, now that the cart was full of Ferris’ supplies. “We have to pay for these things right?” Well, Leo anyway as Kobe didn’t have any Earth currency. He was unaware that his naiveté at human shopping was showing. Being Zercan and all, he used a different type of currency on his planet. Still though, he smiled fondly at both Leo and Ferris, glad that they were with him.

[Kago]

Leonardo only noted what Kobe said towards what he figured would be the reminder just in case he still wanted to see his art. If he wasn't here he would think the other Leo wouldn't mind sharing it. Though the last time he was out he found himself coming out not too long after and things hadn't been perfect he knew one thing. That the other Leo didn't dislike Kobe. That was something to work with. He wasn't fond of him either though. That much he could tell as well. It wasn't like he had reason to be though. Not after the entrance he made into his room the other night. He would just have to prove that he was trustworthy and definitely take things slowly. He was hoping that would be able to happen sometime in the future. Like before Kobe had to go. He still had no idea how long he would be here and he didn't wish to waste time with the assumption that he would be left here by himself one Kobe left. It wasn't so much the whole being alone part that bothered him, alright maybe it was just a bit, it was mostly the fact he would never get to see Kobe again. He just had a feeling he wouldn't and he didn't like it. So much he didn't wish to think on it but at the same time was encouraged to make things work.

Now Leo hoped what he said first wasn't misunderstood. Not hearing anything said on it he supposed Kobe figured it out. He had no desire to be treated like a rag doll. He got a taste of that a long time ago. He had no desire to repeat it. All he had reference to with that was what he was hoping to eventually accomplish with Kobe. Though he supposed with what he figured what he wanted had a few faults in it. But he didn't think to dwell on the things he missed. Not now at least. All he cared to focus on was his goal and that hadn't changed. It wasn't quite the having sex part. It was just getting to the point where he could mange that much. Really overall he would think it would help the other Leo in general. Then again getting use to one person didn't solve or make everything else go away. Well, it was a start. That's all he could hope for there.

It was certainly something to see how excited or generally happy it seemed Kobe was over what he had said. Hearing what sounded like a question at first he simply gave a slight nod to it. He considered saying he did mean it but he wasn't thinking to repeat himself. It was something he knew he wanted, without a doubt he supposed, but he had to get through quite a bit to get to that point and he knew he had quite a ways to go. Especially seeing he had to find a girl he liked. He supposed he didn't have to find a girl, he could adopt, but he had no desire to just have a child that wasn't his own, with someone he cared for running about his home. It was funny in a way. These thoughts he had never really occurred to him before until he came across Kobe. Perhaps seeing him with Ferris had triggered it. He supposed it was possible. Seeing how adorable Ferris was and his attraction towards the larger male it had his mind wandering in that direction. Just starting a family in general. Not so much with the random person that came into his life. Though he would admit that was perhaps mostly due to the fact he rules him out as someone who would come and go and he needn't get attached to him in any way to only worsen things for himself. The last thing he needed was another problem he would have to get over.

It was genuinely nice to see how Kobe smiled. He had meant what he said. He wasn't just saying it for show. He had no reason to do so out in public. Not that he was embarrassed. He imagined his other half would but that was not the case with him. For a moment he wondered if Kobe wanted him to repeat himself with what he had said. He considered doing so however before he could think to utter a word he heard Kobe saying he liked him as well.That that caused him to smile as he looked back at the older male. It was really something he felt was good to know that he was liked by the male he found himself wanting to bed with and even coming to like him himself. So far he wasn't sure if that went along with something that was more then friendship. He would have to spend a bit more time with him to decide that. But then again who was he kidding. He wanted to have sex with the guy. It seemed he skipped right over the wanting to be friends, something he didn't think he had time for anyways, and went straight for the intimacy. He really didn't know what it was about this guy that made him want to be with him in all the ways he wanted to be with him now. Like how he not only wanted to get in bed with the guy but how he cared about whether he would be leaving him in the end. It was bothersome and something he didn't think to dwell on. He was already brushing the thought off to the side for what he was thinking was the second time so far.

The sudden hug and kiss was completely unexpected. It through Leo completely off and he had to wonder if what happened actually just happened. The smile he had vanished for a moment to be replaced by a look of surprise that only lasted a moment before he was smiling a bit once more. It wasn't like what happened was a rude gesture. It was just a definite surprise. One that was far from an unpleasant one though and he had a sudden urge to kiss the other male himself. Not in a way to elicit sex or anything heading that direction but his own innocent gesture. He however didn't move to do that. Not for any particular reason other then that he would wait.

Hearing that the child would like the plush toy he had gotten was something he smiled about as well now. Leo would definitely buy the toy now. He didn't need to be told anything for him to drop the toy in the cart. "I'm glad to hear that." He spoke, wondering if perhaps it would be better to get more then one toy. He considered it but then he thought he would just get something else if he saw the need to. Seeing as how he had no idea when and where Kobe would be going he didn't feel the need to get what he would be stuck with later even if he did have a kid. Considering he could give to the child he had. He could always get something better then.

Now he knew right then and there, if they got everything, it was time to go and he was looking forward to leaving. The sooner he got back the sooner he could see everything was settled. He had a feeling he might not be around for much longer so it wouldn't serve good for either of them to find themselves in a situation with his confused other self. So with his thoughts set on leaving Leo was surprised to hear what Kobe asked. He found himself simply assuming that Kobe thought he might be getting something else for himself. He wasn't. So he answered with what he thought would have been obvious if he hadn't thought he was getting more things. "We're going to go to the cash register of course." He spoke this now pushing the cart to exit the aisle and head straight towards the least crowded cash register. "I'll buy this and then we'll be going back to my place." He just had to consider how he would carry everything. It wasn't so much he couldn't manage it by himself while Kobe carried Ferris. That considering he didn't expect the male to assist him with the bag. "It won't take long." He added this as he came to exit the aisle, expecting Kobe to be following him.

It seemed luck was on Leo's side today. There was no one at one of the cash registers and a cashier was was looking quite lost in thought. From the number sign by the register he could see it was open so he pushed the cart tight by the register and wasted no time with emptying out all the things he had, or rather Kobe for the most part, gotten and intended to pay for. It took just a few minutes before he was pushing the cart forward to have. the bags packed by another person he just noted who clearly worked here as well. One of the bagger people or whatever they called them. He didn't know. He didn't care. All he focused on doing now was taking out his wallet and seeing how much he had to pay. Before he knew it everything was totalled and hearing the cashier, a young lady, tell him the total he was quick to add up the money he had and give the appropriate amount. It was with that a receipt was given he just stuffed into his pocket with the change he had placed in his wallet and stuffed in their as well.

Once all that was over that Leo pushed the cart off heading towards the front door. He figured he would go as far as he could with the cart and then abandon it as he took everything in it with him and leave it for those who worked here to retrieve it. It was only as he moved straight outside and walked a little ways from the door did he stop to look back at Kobe who he assumed was following him still. "I can't take this with me." He motioned towards the cart. "So I'll have to carry all of it the rest of the way home." He saw he had quite a few bags to take care of but he was sure he could last through whatever the amount of time was needed to get him and then get upstairs. "I assume you'll be carrying Ferris so I'll take care of the bags." He wasn't thinking to leave the child behind, most certainly not, he was just considering that it might be easier for him to carry the child and for Kobe to take the bags but he wasn't going to say that. As far as he was concerned he just expected Kobe to take care of the child and leave him to tend to all the items they bought. He in fact didn't waste anytime with taking out the bags as he came to the side of the cart.

[clementine]

The cash register was a new thing for Kobe. Even as he followed sedately behind Leo, he was craning his head about to get a better look at things. He peered at the tabloids that were slotted on one side of the isle, and was shocked to see the talk of aliens. However, the aliens didn’t even look remotely like the real thing, what with the big heads and green bodies. Kobe wondered over this new discovering. If humans were supposed to be advancing, how was it possible that they believed hat aliens were little green men? It was preposterous. Kobe snorted.

The moving conveyer belt the trundled the groceries along was another surprise. As was the beeping light of the register and the way that Leo handed off the money. Rather instinctively he moved up behind Leo, placing a warm hand at the boy’s lower waist. It was an obviously possessive gesture, clearly telling the cashier, who was looking at Leo, to “back off.” Kobe didn’t like it when people stared it his mate. He was the only one who got to think Leo was beautiful. It was a selfish thought, but he thought it nonetheless and his inner Instinct agreed with him. Getting Leo home as quickly as possible was starting to sound better and better. Who knew what kinds of people would go after the boy? Perhaps he was being a little overprotective. He still didn’t want anyone making a pass at his mate. He would not allow that. If anyone so much as looked at Leo lewdly, they’d be getting a face full of lion.

That was beside the point though. Leo was already moving along and Kobe hurried to follow. That feeling was starting to build up again. The need to touch Leo was growing stronger and Kobe tried to fight it off. Never in his life had he wanted a person more than he wanted Leo right then. It didn’t make sense, what with then just finishing shopping. It wasn’t that it was really a turn on. He knew that it was the mate bond acting up again along with the need to claim. He was seriously sweating bullets as he took a fortifying breath the was beginning to become familiar. He tamped down on his libido. Now wasn’t the time. He didn’t know when the time would be, but it certainly wasn’t now.

“You can carry Ferris and I’ll carry the bags.” Kobe interjected. He paused for a moment by Leo once they were outside, his hand coming to rest in its customary position on the human’s lower back. Kobe was pleased to find that he’d managed to slip the side of his hand underneath Leo’s shirt so that he was touching the boy’s soft skin. It was barely a touch but it had Kobe wanting more. Shuddering a little, he leaned in and kissed Leo briefly. It was a deep kiss, but he drew back before it went further. He hoped Leo didn’t mind it. The human seemed to have liked to hug from earlier. Kobe wanted to focus on getting his mate used to his touches.

“Sorry. I couldn’t help myself. You’re just so beautiful.” Kobe laughed, not the least bit remorseful as he moved to take Ferris out of the cart. “Here.” He handed to toddler over to Leo, knowing the boy would hold Ferris gently like he had done in the kitchen. That finished, the lion grabbed up all the groceries from the cart. It took him a moment to toggle the bags into a comfortable position, but he was holding them easily in no time.

He tossed a smile a Leo from over his shoulder as he began to slowly make his way up the street. “C’mon then.” Kobe beckoned, continuing on. He couldn’t help but think how lucky he was to have found such a charming little mate.