Standard disclaimers apply. As you are aware by reading this fic, I was not happy with the ending of EVA and have decided to write my own ending. I'm pro Shinji/Kaworu so if m/m relationship offends then leave now. This fic takes place after Shinji meeting Kaworu and the Death and Rebirth episodes never existed. Your c&c are very much welcome. Thank you.

As They Should Be
By
Kitsane

Shinji meets Kaworu for the first time.

"What are you saying?"

"I love you."

**Blink**

That night when Shinji and Kaworu are together.

"Kaworu-kun, I...I love you too."

"I'm glad Shinji-kun, that I could make you happy even for a little while."

"What do you mean? Wait, you're the last aren't you? The last Angel?"

"Yes, I am and soon you will have to kill me and we will part."

"Then tonight is all we have right?"

"Yes."

Shinji leans over Kaworu and brushes his lips over Kaworu's. "Then let us have this night for us and us alone." Kaworu wraps his arms around Shinji and kisses him back as their tears mingle building for themselves one bittersweet memory before reality took hold again. Later, as Shinji and Kaworu lay together in each other's arms, a thought hit them both simultaneously. Their gazes locked as peace settled on their features. They had found a way to be together.

**Blink**

Eva 01 holds Kaworu in its fist.

"Do it Shinji, only one will survive and I want it to be you."

**Blink**

Shinji looked around the room he had shared with his lover and soulmate for one night and smiled. Soon, he thought, we will be together again. He turned and slowly made his way to the seashore as they had planned. He had left a note explaining why at Misato's place and they would no doubt find it tomorrow after the celebration party. Shinji sat down and closed his eyes as he heard his watch signal midnight. It was Christmas and he would finally be free. His body tingled as he felt his lovers' approach. He tipped back his head as cool hands settled on his shoulders and opened his eyes. Kaworu stood over him and his eyes conveyed the love he felt in its red glow.

Are you ready, my love?

"Yes. I have waited for this all my life."

Then let us depart this prison of humanity and enter a new existence.

Shinji felt himself falling and rising at the same time. Taking Kaworu's hand he glanced at his sprawled body on the shore one final time.

Let us go now. There is nothing left for us here. Our duty is done.

And their souls soared into the sky together never once looking back as they left the chaotic world behind them for another made up solely of love and peace.

**Epilogue**

They found the body the next day and the note. A funeral service was held and although they mourned, many were happy the boy had found his peace at last. They returned and managed to continue their lives. Save one. Gendou Ikari unable to cope, had finally broken down and was hospitalized for two months. He discharged himself after that with a whole new attitude. When asked he would only reply, "There is love in the world and I am forgiven."

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