**Confronting the Truth**

Mitsuba's words hung in the air, a stark contrast to the tender moment they had shared just moments before. "You may not have meant yours... but when I told you I love you... I sure as hell meant it," he said, his voice cracking as tears welled up in his eyes. He got off Kou and onto the edge of the bed, his hands cupping his own face as he slightly sobbed into them. The sound of Mitsuba's muffled sobs was like a punch to Kou's gut. He felt his heart get stuck in his throat as he watched the younger boy break down. Mitsuba's words cut deep, and Kou knew he had to make things right. He couldn't just sit there and let Mitsuba think that he didn't feel the same way. Mitsuba, still trying to hold back his tears, attempted to lighten the mood with a joke. "I'm more so ashamed I let a man that doesn't even love me take my own virginity!" he said, his voice shaking as he tried to laugh through his tears. Kou's heart swelled with emotion as he listened to Mitsuba's words. He couldn't bear the thought of Mitsuba feeling ashamed or hurt because of him. He instantly got up and went to hug the pink-haired boy, holding him tightly as he tried to comfort him. "Mitsuba, don't ever say that," Kou whispered, his voice filled with emotion. "You were a willing participant, and I...I couldn't have helped myself. I wanted you, and I still do." Kou's words were laced with sincerity as he held Mitsuba close, trying to convey the depth of his feelings. Mitsuba's body stiffened in Kou's arms, and for a moment, Kou wondered if he had overstepped. But then, the younger boy slowly relaxed into his hug, his tears slowing as he sniffled against Kou's chest. Kou's heart swelled with love and affection for Mitsuba. He knew in that moment that he couldn't deny his feelings any longer. He loved Mitsuba, with all his heart, and he was willing to do whatever it took to make things right between them. As they stood there, wrapped in each other's arms, Kou knew that he had to be honest with Mitsuba. He had to tell him the truth, no matter how scary it might be. "Mitsuba, I...I love you," Kou whispered, his voice barely audible over the sound of his own heartbeat. "I love you, and I want to be with you, to take care of you, and to make you happy."