Tue (Day 1)

Kotetsu arrived at the hotel at 6:55 am.

He leaned against the limo door and pushed his sunglasses up his face. He knew he should've brought his motorbike instead. The blinding white limo was an eyesore and it was going to draw far too much attention to them. Kotetsu would rather have slipped underneath the radar then draw attract attention to this recently arrived kid. Besides his ride was pretty sweet. He was sure that Barnaby's seven months here would be full of large crowds. This was definitely a crowd control situation.

Kotetsu curiously scanned the building his charge was supposed to be in. This place was obscenely overdone. High glass towers rose at least 12 stories out of the ground. This early in the morning the glass reflected the rising sun, right at Kotetsu's face. Each floor had a balcony overlooking all of Sternbuild, every deck coated with flora and patio furniture. Kotetsu's eyes stopped at the penthouse level- where Barnaby Brooks Jr. was supposed to be staying. Of course Kotetsu couldn't actually see all the way to the top but there was something relaxing about just being able to keep an eye on where Barnaby stayed.

At 6:58 am the glass entrance doors opened up to reveal Barnaby himself.

Kotetsu pushed off the limo and jogged up to meet his client. He smiled warmly at the blond, who was tucking his hand into his pocket. The pocket of his red suit? A very red suit. Kotetsu almost had to stand back and look at the entire outfit.

Barnaby was just as attractive in real life as he was in his photo, but Kotetsu couldn't really approve of the man's suit he wore. He was clad in a striking red number that covered him from neck to ankle, offset by a black undershirt and matching shoes. His blond hair was curlier than it had been in his photo and that confident smile had been replaced with a more taunting smirk. Grudgingly he admitted that the younger man was taller, but only a little. Kotetsu ended his once over of Barnaby by looking straight into the young man's eyes. Unfortunately they were gauging Kotetsu's reaction to being caught staring.

"Are you done staring, sir?" Barnaby asked with a hint of amusement in his eyes.

Shaking his head slight Kotetsu bowed slightly and grinned at the blond. "Excuse me Barnaby-san. Just seeing what I was protecting for the next several months." He bowed again. "Kotetsu Kaburagi at your service!"

Barnaby smirked again, nodding at Kotetsu. "I suppose you already know who I am then? But for the sake of customs, my name is Barnaby Brooks Jr. Please take care of me." Kotetsu admitted he was surprised when Barnaby bowed back in true Japanese form.

Looking around Barnaby, Kotetsu searched for his baggage. Nothing behind him. Kotetsu glanced up at the penthouse. Maybe he left it all up there for me to get?

The blond tilted his head questioningly at Kotetsu. That was kinda cute.

Kotetsu straightened up and pointed upwards to the penthouse.

"Is all your luggage still up there?"

Barnaby shook his head quickly, sending blond curls swaying. Instead of answering Kotetsu he simply picked up the small black duffle bag by his feet. He held it out for Kotetsu to inspect.

Kotetsu accepted the bag and looked back at the man questioningly. It was barely ten pounds and obviously not all he had brought.

"That is all I brought."

Kotetsu laughed nervously, "So for seven months you're gonna live outta this? Seems kinda puny if you ask me." Motioning towards Barnaby's suit he joked, "What, do you have more of those packed into this thing?"

"My stuff is already at Maverick's place. He told me to travel light." Barnaby simply crossed his arms. "He also said that breakfast was served at 7:45 sharp. Should we get going Kaburagi-san?"

Kotetsu glanced down at his watch. 7:04. Mr. Maverick's place was a thirty minute drive. They would be fine. Well at least they would be with Kotetsu's driving ability. Swinging the duffle over his shoulder Kotetsu escorted Barnaby back to the limo. He smiled over his shoulder at the blond. "Have some faith in this old man, Mr. Brooks. I will have you there in plenty of time!"

The smirked returned. "Oh really? I will hold you to that Kaburagi-san."

Maybe this job wasn't going to be so bad after all, Kotetsu thought happily.

Nope. He took it back. This job was going to go badly.

Once Barnaby had situated himself in the limo it was like a switch had flipped on him. The calm teasing man had morphed into an overconfident spoiled arrogant kid.

At first it seemed fine, Kotetsu had started asking simple things like how was your flight or do you get carsick easily.

Then he asked about how he knew Kotetsu was Japanese.

Barnaby stretched his arms over the backseat causally. He titled his head back until it hit the seat and he sighed.

"What kind of celebrity would I be if I didn't look up the person who was going to be my bodyguard? I'm essentially putting my life in your hands. I needed to know who you were."

A thought seemed to cross his mind because the next minute Kotetsu saw him smirk in his rearview mirror. Without lifting his head Barnaby began, "So the Crusher of Justice, huh? How exactly does one get that particular title? I read about you destroying the reporter's camera because he got too close to a client, but still how did you destroy his car?"

Feeling the heat rushing to his face, Kotetsu tried to push back down the embarrassment instead he mumbled to himself, "I liked it better when you didn't talk so much."

"I, uh, seem to be accident prone when it comes to protecting people. Sometimes things just happen and I can't stop them." Kotetsu hoped that would satisfy him. "Is there anything else you would like to know Brooks-san?

A frown edged its way onto Barnaby's face. Kotetsu swore he heard him hum at that.

"Maybe you have just been on the job too long. What do you think? Your file did not specify how many years you have done this but it did tell me your age, Ouji-san."

Kotetsu turned his head quickly in surprise at the young man. When he looked back he only saw the all too common smirk on Barnaby's face. How did this little brat from America even know what that meant? Besides, Kotetsu wasn't even that old. He was only about eleven years older than Barnaby. Sure thirty-five seemed old when you're still in your twenties but come on! Ouji-san?

Kotetsu took in a deep breath before answering.

"I am more than capable of protecting you, if that's what you're concerned about Brooks-san. Age doesn't really matter in this job. The job is really about how well we can protect those that need our help. As long as I'm capable I will continue to work to the best of my abilities." Kotetsu felt himself swell with pride at how cool he sounded. Kaede would be so proud of her Daddy!

Instead of the awed silence he was expecting he heard Barnaby chuckled.

"Eh, what's wrong with that?"

Setting his chin on his fist, Barnaby smiled to the window. "How old-fashioned, Ouji-san."

Several minutes passed in silence. Kotetsu took a deep breath and smiled, this job would be fine. He could so totally handle this kid. Just small steps. The silence stretched on and Kotetsu would later argue those were the best minutes of that day.

Pressing his finger against the window Barnaby piped up, "You should have taken that left."

"And what makes you say that, Brooks-san?" Kotetsu tried to ask politely.

"Before I arrived here I made sure I could get around the city. Just in case. And that street would've taken us straight to Maverick's. Don't you ever check your directions online?" Barnaby said tiredly.

Kotetsu pointedly ignore the last part of the statement, in fear of encouraging another Ouji-san comment. Instead he tried to convince Barnaby of his great and expansive knowledge of the city of Sternbuild.

"Haha Brooks-san! You see I know for a fact that we should make a left on Summer Street!"

"That was Summer Street."

At 7:48 Kotetsu pulled into Mr. Maverick's expansive drive way.

Within seconds Kotetsu was out of the limo, had Barnaby's luggage, and was opening the young man's door before Barnaby had oriented himself to seeing Maverick's mansion again. He had been four or five the last time he was here and then he had his parents at least to soften the impact of the grandious mansion. Now he was stuck with a cat-bearded man as his only cushion. Barnaby dropped his head, sighing softly.

Said man looked curiously at his charge and put on a cheesy grin. "What Barnaby-san? I apologize for being late, but it's only by a couple minutes! I'm sure Maverick-san won't mind."

Barnaby refused to look at Kotetsu, instead looking up to the entrance of the mansion, waiting for them to swallow him into the mouth of the building. The old mansion certainly hadn't changed in the twenty years he'd been gone. He did his best to keep a grimace from creeping onto his face.

"It's not that Ouji-san. Maverick is a stickler for the rules but- we'll just tell him that traffic delayed us. One thing I am worried about though; how did you get a license? There is no way half the stunts you pulled were legal!"

Kotetsu shrugged and maintained his carefree smile, "Kaede says the same thing. But believe it or not I'm actually one of the safest drivers at Apollon!" The bearded man threw up the victory sign and laughed.

But Barnaby was caught up on something else. His eyebrow quirked and his lip tilted up, "Kaede?"

"Barnaby! My boy. Glad to see you could make it to Sterbuild."

Before Kotetsu could answer the large oak doors swung open to reveal Maverick himself. The well-dressed man ambled down the stairs slowly. Two maids stood attentively by his side, obviously waiting on their orders from the big man himself. Kotetsu couldn't see the rest of the building but he assumed the inside was furnished just as beautifully as the outside. And you know how the saying goes, curiosity killed the cat. Kotetsu practically squirmed with the desire to explore the place. Maverick stopped on the last step, opening his arms to beckon his nephew to him.

Barnaby quickly went up to the man and Kotetsu almost smiled. The young man had a huge smile on his face, not the fake one Kotetsu had been used to seeing on him. The blond genuinely seemed excited to see his uncle. Kotetsu would store away the image of that smile for a rainy day, or whenever the brat decided to pull Ouji-san again. Maverick pulled Barnaby close to him and place a small kiss to the top of his head. Barnaby pushed himself back slightly, obviously pleased by the welcome. "Uncle Maverick. Long time no see."

Maverick smiled and ruffled his hair, "A very long time indeed Barnaby. Although I thought you would have been here earlier."

Having caught up to the pair Kotetsu took that as his cue, "Uh, Mr. Maverick, that would be my fault sir. I didn't account for the traffic on the way over here?"

The weak excuse didn't faze Maverick who continued to smile, "Traffic? At 7 am on a Tuesday morning? The inner city must have certainly livened up since I moved out here." Kotetsu fiddled with his hat and chuckled nervously.

The youngest member of the trio had pulled out of Maverick's embrace and instead began formal introductions. One hand motioned to the bodyguard, "Uncle Maverick, this is Mr. Kaburagi. He'll be my bodyguard for the next seven months." Kotetsu bowed politely. The same hand then swung over to Maverick, "And Mr. Kaburagi, this is my uncle, Mr. Maverick. The CEO of Apollon, where you work."

Maverick nodded his head to Kotetsu and then called to his maids, "Grace, would you please take Barnaby's bag to his room and Beatrice if you would show these two the restroom to freshen up before breakfast."

The small bit of luggage was quickly retrieved and Kotetsu found himself being ushered down the large hallway of Maverick's Mansion.

The spread for breakfast was of course delicious. Kotetsu hadn't had this much homemade food since before he could remember. Eggs, biscuits, smoked ham, sausage, fruits, and pancakes were served in an orderly manner and by the second serving Kotetsu was ready to burst. That didn't mean he missed the opportunity to distract one of the maids and quietly ask, "Ma'am, by chance do you have any mayo in the back?" Her face contorted into a puzzled expression before she stuttered a quick 'I will see sir' and vanished into the kitchen.

Tuning back into the conversation, Kotetsu caught Maverick shaking slightly with laughter.

"Really, it's been far too long since you've been home Barnaby. I'm sure everyone at the office would be thrilled to see you. You should stop by my office before you check into the robotics lab. You'll be in there plenty starting next week."

"Ah, I appreciate the offer Uncle. I will drop in but I really do think I should meet Mr. Saito and the other staff before too long. I need to know who I'm working with after all."

This info actually caught Kotetsu's attention. Removing the fork between his teeth he swung it casually at Barnaby. "Saito-san? The nice quiet man on the 15th floor?"

Barnaby tilted his head again, causing a smile to sneak onto Kotetsu's face.

"Yes I believe Mr. Saito is on that floor. That is the engineering floor, correct?"

Kotetsu leaned back in his chair as the maid brought out a small container of mayonnaise. He thanked her, completely ignored the looks he received from Barnaby and his uncle, and continued, "He's a good guy, you'll like him a lot Brooks-san. He's always coming up with protective gear for us bodyguards. What are you guys teaming up on?"

Barnaby shook his head softly and smirked, "I believe that is classified information Kaburagi-san."

Maverick folded his fingertips together, smiling. "Barnaby will be invaluable to Mr. Saito's job either way Mr. Kaburagi. The main thing is that you need to protect Barnaby here." Maverick grasped the aforementioned's shoulder and squeezed. Kotetsu couldn't help but draw comparisons to Maverick looking like a proud papa. Twenty minutes ago, Maverick had just been the mysterious face behind Apollon , but now he seemed much more approachable.

With that said the maids placed piping hot stacks of pancakes in front of the trio and the conversation was over.

"A word Mr. Kaburagi?"

Kotetsu turned to find Maverick slowly approaching him. Kotetsu straightened up quickly.

"Yes Mr. Maverick? What can I do for you?"

Maverick stared at the bearded man a moment before turning to stare at limo being loaded with gifts from Maverick himself. Kotetsu kept an eye out for his charge who was currently washing up inside. He couldn't exactly say he hadn't been expecting Maverick to approach him before they left but he was hoping that he and Barnaby could get settled sooner rather than later. Not that he really had any idea what was on the schedule for the day.

There were a few moments of baited silence that was beginning to get awkward. Kotetsu felt like he was about to get scolded. For what he had no idea.

"I know you don't really know what Barnaby is here for, or why. You just know he's going to be here for seven months. I'd like you to keep it that way. If Barnaby gets too attached here there's no way I can convince him to continue his research. The boy is smart. I only want the best for him and I don't feel like Sternbuild is the best place for him to grow. Do you understand Mr. Kaburagi?"

"Yes, sir Mr. Maverick."

Maverick seemed pleased with that simple bit of reassurance. He tucked his hands into pockets, smiled and turned to leave.

Without thinking Kotetsu reached out, calling out. "There is one more thing Mr. Maverick."

Maverick turned halfway to stare at Kotetsu.

"What I want to ask is, why does Mr. Brooks need a bodyguard? A simple engineer shouldn't have too many life or death situations coming his way." Instantly Kotetsu knew he had asked the wrong question. Grief pulled on Mr. Maverick's face and he turned fully to Kotetsu again. He let out a long suffering sigh.

"In the past Barnaby has had incidents that aren't normal. His car brakes cut, paparazzi breaking in, the occasional stalker getting far too close. There is a reason his research is top secret Mr. Kaburagi. His research also comes from his parents and many people want to know what all the secrecy is about. And I must remind you that he is the heir to Apollon. Many many people would like to see that succession freed up, if you understand what I mean." Maverick shook his head sadly at the thought.

Kotetsu frowned before he asked the last question hesitantly. Although he needed to know what he was getting into.

"Has Mr. Brooks ever had any attempts on his life?"

Maverick's faced darkened before he spoke, "None that he can remember. I'd like to keep it that way."

Kotetsu nodded.

"You can count on me Mr. Maverick."

A weary smile warmed up Maverick's face. He turned in time to see Barnaby walking down the hall. The blond was readjusting suit jacket, attention focused solely on the task at hand.

By the time Barnaby had joined them Kotetsu had perked back up from the serious talk he had had with Maverick. It sucked that anyone in the world could harm innocent people such as Barnaby but Kotetsu knew those people existed. For as long as the kid needed him Kotetsu would be there. Kotetsu made a silent vow in his head to protect him. Kotetsu knew that things were going to be difficult, but that was what his job was about; protecting those that needed it. He didn't know who had been shielding the boy from his assignation attempts but Kotetsu was willing to take up the job.

Barnaby stopped by the older men, glancing curiously between them. "Were you all waiting on me? I am sorry, I did not think I was so slow."

Maverick brushed off the remark and Kotetsu piped up. "I was just asking Maverick-san if he would lend me the recipe for those delicious fruit tarts!" Kotetsu rubbed his stomach to back up his story. Kotetsu figured he would spare Barnaby the sob story.

There was a moment of silence before,

"You cannot be serious. Sorry Uncle, I should have been out here earlier to save you from this conversation." Barnaby scoffed.

"Mr. Kaburagi is actually quite good company Barnaby, but I'm holding you up. I'm sure you want to get settled in at your place don't you?" Maverick began to usher the two men out of the front door. He paused by the door to pick up a black box. "Oh and Barnaby this is for you."

Accepting the gift Barnaby thanked his uncle and followed after Kotetsu. He turned by the limo, waved goodbye and slipped in the car.

Kotetsu twisted himself over his seat. Resting his head on his folded arms he grinned at his occupant. "A parting gift from your uncle, eh?"

Even with the arrogant attitude Barnaby couldn't help suppress the smile that bubbled onto his face.

Kotetsu didn't need anymore for an answer. He slipped back into his seat and began driving to Barnaby's permanent home.

The ride to Barnaby's apartment went much smoother than their first car ride. Barnaby refused to open the package and instead inquired about the landmarks they passed, or where was the best place for Italian, or just simple questions. Kotetsu did most of the talking, perfectly content to let Barnaby adjust to his environment. Over the next seven months there would be plenty to talk about, but right now was the calm before the storm. The car ride was beautiful, it was the middle of summer so every park they passed was in full leafy bloom. Kids were out of school, parents with the family strolling in the family neighborhoods , totting toddlers on their hips and dogs running ahead. All in all, the entire place was like a picture book. One particular park had a festival going on. The mills of people seemed lively, crowed and exciting. Kotetsu made a mental note to take Barnaby to some of the parks when he was settled in.

Speaking of Barnaby, amber eyes darted up to his rearview mirror. His passenger had been silent for a while. Kotetsu didn't know if that was good or bad although he was hoping that everything was alright in the blond's mind. Kotetsu knew his job did not involve getting close with Barnaby. The boy would have a busy schedule and Kotetsu was there to make sure he was alive by the end of his trip. Kotetsu was a veteran at his job, he was also pretty damn good at it. That didn't mean he hadn't ever lost a client. Everyone at Apollon had lost someone. He gripped the wheel a little tighter. He would protect this glasses wearing, blond headed kid.