Each ring sped up Akio's heart rate. When he heard Sen's reply he calmed down.

"Hey, it's Akio. Just checking on what you're doing, I kinda just woke up."

Hearing that it was Akio's voice made him smile. "Oh, good morning. Nothing much. I'm just helping my uncle around the shop since one of the guys called in sick today." he told him.

"Cool." said Akio, realising his nakedness.

"When are you done for the day? I wouldn't mind seeing you again..."

Sen felt his heart pounding when he heard that he was glad to hear that he missed him. "Um...I think I get off at three. It's that good enough?" he asked.

"Sure." he replied.

"Do you remember the way to my place or do you want me to collect you?"

It was quiet for a moment before a nervous laugh came from the boy. "Can you come and get me. I forgot." he told him. Hanging his head low with shame.

"No Sen, it's cool..."

Sen's innocence really shone through then. Akio knew he liked being around him as he is boisterous yet protective and caring.

"I don't mind at all, I can tell you're feeling ashamed at yourself. Don't be."

He face turned, thinking that he was some short of mind reader. Then he looked around to see if he was around and was playing around with him in a playful matter. "Ah, ha, ha,ha. I'm fine don't worry about me." he said. Just then Akio could hear someone shouting in the background. "Ah! My uncle is calling me. I better get going." he told him.

"Ok, I'll see you in a few hours. Bye."

Akio paused and added.

"I love you."

He ended the called and threw his slightly battered phone on his desk and proceeded to get changed.

Sen's face turned redder and was speechless. Once he got off the phone, he went back working hard at his uncle's shop. The hours seem to float on by and it was the end of his shift. He took a shower and got dressed. Waiting for Akio to appear.