Warnings are posted on the first chapter.

CHAPTER 10: THE RESOLVE

His terror of the past slowly starts to creep in him. Flashes of horrific things/incidents played on his mind. He wants to stay strong; he knows Aomine will save him from this nightmare that once again he's facing without any consent. But his body's betraying him. The lithe frame is trembling. He closed his eyes, forcing his brain to think of happy thoughts. The futile attempt failed horrendously. He wants that tanned large hand to grip his own, tight, assuring, to soothe the dreadful emotions, to keep the nightmares away. It's all he needs and he needs it badly, now.

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Aomine's heart continues to thump hard. It makes breathing a bit tough. He tried to focus on driving. It won't help to add another accident when all that he wants to do is make sure that his friend is still alive and claim the model back, safe and sound. When his vision caught the familiar bordering of Kise's house he felt relief flooded his system, momentarily. There's still no sign of either ambulance or police cars. Shit!

He slammed the door of the car with deliberate force and skidded towards the house, frantically. His thoughts are in a blur. He can't seem to gather his wits on every step he's taking as he's closing the distance on the target location. Once he caught the handle of the door, he wrenched it open, dashed inside, his sight roaming around to look for a familiar face. A body bathed in blood was sprawled in Kise's living room, permanently staining the carpet. He checked the body, the guy no longer breathes.

He scans for a familiar raven haired man. When he wasn't bestowed by what he's expecting, he decided to go at the back of the house. Breathing in heavy pants, he found another lifeless body, shot in the head. Shit really happened here! Not too far, just a few spaces from the back door, he caught the image of his good friend battling for his life. The jovial face was contorted in pain, eyes bare of his usual glasses which mirrored the ache he's feeling and his side bleeding.

"Shoichi". He whispered, fear clouding him. He was at Imayoshi's side in a second, pushing in the wound to lessen the bleeding. "Hey asshole, I'm here. Open up you four eyes."

His voice stirred the bleeding guy's consciousness which is starting to slip away more and more at every second that pass.

"Daiki". He looked up when he heard his name being called. His voice was nowhere louder than a murmur. With all the strength left to him, he tried to snap his eyes properly open to look at his friend. "Ki— Kise... Tonight—"

"Shhh. It's alright. Save your energy. I know you're too early to be dying. Death isn't eager to have his little minion yet." He tried to pass off his uncertainty and panic by throwing off a joke. Damn! What's taking those medics so long?!

The injured man managed a small smile which turned to grimace as blood gushed on his lips.

"Shit! Damn! Hell! Fuck!" He's starting to feel the alarm engulfing his insides. Spitting curses did not help a bit. "Don't you fucking die on me, bastard! I won't ever forgive you!"

God! Please don't make this day the worst in my life.

And then he heard it. Sharply ringing. The sound of siren filled the air. Aomine never thought that he'll be delighted to hear it. But now it sounds to him like the most melodious song he's ever heard. He sighed in relief. He then heard voices rang out brusquely in the air, with scurrying of feet and commands filling the quietness.

"They're here. You'll be alright. You did a great job dude." He tried to hold into the hands. They are cold. He squeezed it and it squeezed back with the smallest of force. He smiled. His friend is a fighter. He knows he'll survive it.

Two men with a stretcher stooped down beside him. A woman jogging behind them did the same.

"Sir we need you to move aside." He pulled his hands off. He shifts to give them enough space. They were attending on the wound, checking the black-haired guy's pulse every now and then before scooping the body, placing it in the entity used to transfer injured people. All he can do is watch as his friend is being taken away, to safety and living, he hopes.

Now, he needs to attend on a more pressing fact. Kise was abducted, no doubt of Haizaki's men. The caller whom he talked to proves his hunch correct. But where to find them? He has yet to figure out the bastard's location through the files. But there are so many hidey-holes that scumbag can creep into. He gritted his teeth. He tried to calm down. Then the most familiar sound caught his attention. Someone was calling him.

"Aomine". It was his superior. Akashi Seijuro. The man who demands for obedience, utmost respect and somehow fear. He stood hastily. If Aomine has been any lesser man, he'll tremble under those piercing gaze brought by heterochromatic eyes. But Aomine's not. He met the gaze with as much fierce as he can yet underlying was still admiration and respect for his higher up. His right hand which is drenched in blood, automatically found its way to his temple for a salute. His body rigid. He spoke with control.

"Sir."

The red-haired guy saluted back and the tanned one rest the hand in his side. Without waiting for questions, Aomine filled the superior with details.

"There has been an incident. A nasty one. I'll shoulder the responsibility for this, Sir. It's my fault. I asked Imayoshi-kun to replace me for a few hours to get some important things and yet it was at the same instance that our suspect attacked. I believe this is not a coincidence. It was planned."

The smaller guy nodded and contemplated for a moment. "Do you realize Aomine-kun that you placed one of our field agents in danger and in doing so you also failed your job? Your subject was abducted and you were out doing another thing? Really an irresponsible act. I'm disappointed. You know that you should not leave Kise-kun alone or to be more precise, without you by his side. I remember you saying that you want to handle this assignment because you know you're the most suited. Should I regret my decision of entrusting this to you, Daiki?" His voice doesn't carry any emotion yet Aomine shivered under the stare he was receiving.

He gulped before forming the words. "I apologize Sir. There's no excuse for my irresponsible act but don't pull me off this mission. I'll bring Kise back even it means the end of me."

An eyebrow twitched. Akashi tilted his head a bit. He looks like a child considering what decision to make. He turned his back to Aomine but didn't take a step before saying, "Come to my office later." With that he's gone.

Aomine heaved a breath. Sure he's kind of scared of his superior but all of his fears now are directed for Kise's safety. He'll bring him back no matter what it takes!

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The black car arrived at the front of a high gateway. It was early evening now. They have travelled for an hour or so. The entrance opened and the car slid in to the wide parking space. There stood a house proudly. It was a modern, three storey mansion. The door was littered with armed guys in suit. Kise shivered when he remembered the same pair of men who are now dead in his house. Then he thought automatically of Imayoshi. He whimpered. He really hopes that the black-haired guy is alive. He was dragged off by the driver of the car and they trailed along the pathway towards the wooden door. But before they can step on the doorsill, a guy swiftly blocked their way, a gun ready on his hand.

"State your name and business." A monotone voice inquired. There was nothing more than hard as steel determination and vigilance.

"Fujikawa Aido, direct subordinate of The Boss. Here to deliver him his good." He inclined his head to the blonde. Kise couldn't help but feel enrage. They were regarding him as an object! A fucking possession of the bastard Haizaki!

He tried to peel of the hand that was gripping him none too gently. Aido glared at him, silently warning the blond to behave, but he return the gaze with as much contempt as he can muster. He has no plans of obeying like some puppy.

"I am not that asshole's possession or anyone's!" He hissed.

The guard of the door looked a bit amused. So The Boss wants his toy by his side. Mr. Haizaki was never the type to permit someone to stay beside him nor to pay attention to anyone that doesn't stir his interest. But this blond may have surpassed that criterion. A fiery and feisty blond at that. This could be so entertaining. He phoned someone to verify this and the appointment. When he got the go signal to let them in, he turned his attention back to Fujikawa, shutting his phone off.

"You can go ahead."

Aido merely nodded his thanks. He was still holding Kise with much force that the blond can expect some bruises to form later on. They headed for the stairs that was majestically erected on the middle of the first floor. The mansion doesn't look like anything of a hideout which Kise mentally noted to be some abandoned building or secluded dark places. This was more like of a rest house or some kind of hotel. So the bad guys have a taste. He disdainfully concluded.

Step by step, Kise's fear breeds. What can he do at this situation? He has no weapon on his account and even if he does, surely he'll be dead before he can pull the trigger on Haizaki. Damn! Being helpless is so frustrating!

When they reached the top floor which was scarce of anyone but two heavily-armed guys that stood over a handsome framed door, Kise feels that every ounce of energy he possesses seems to evaporate. He dreads what he will see behind that entry, what will happen. For one, Haikazi is surely to be inside. That evil man who knows nothing than obtain everything he wants in every possible way he can, regardless of how rogue it is. For another, he fears the plans the light-haired man has for him. Will he undergo another phase of torture? Sex that equates to pain. It was always been like that. The fucking that left him broken and dirty. The possessing of his body with sick motives. Can he bear it? Can he still recover if that has to happen? Can he move—

He was startled when he realized that they were in front of the door and now Aido stood facing the pair of guards. They were equally looking down at Kise, being taller and muscular. The men were grim-looking and Kise doesn't question their strength to snap him out of his life in just a second if he attempt to escape. But unlike two floors down they weren't questioned. It seems that his transporter is recognized by both guys.

The one on the right opened the door with the slightest sound and Kise was greeted by dim light that was emitted by the moon in the half-opened heavy curtain on the right side of the room. Fujikawa, he noticed moved away from him but he didn't leave. The blond adjusted his eyesight to get accustomed to the entire surrounding before he came to discern someone in the middle of the room, sitting behind a desk, back resting on a chair, his expression the most relaxed.

Shougo Haizaki was looking at him like he was his favourite candy in a store. There's a faint trace of sneer and smugness. He slowly ascends from his position making his way in the direction of the model. He stopped in his tracks when he's in front of Kise. The blond for some reason he can't name was rooted on his spot. It's a miracle to know that he's still breathing because he was so sure he held it up the moment he saw this face.

"Aido, you came back alone. So this must mean that the two guys are either dead or caught." Haizaki was not looking at his underling yet he demands an answer.

"My apologies Sir. We underestimated the guard dog that Aomine placed in his stead. Kishima and Masashi are both dead. However, I managed to injure the enemy."

The light-haired man waved his hand. "No matter. We'll replace those two. I have to praise you for a job well done. You have successfully brought me my precious item."

"I'm glad to be of service."

"You'll be properly compensated Aido. Before I forgot, go to my office. At the table you'll find a sealed envelope. That's our little present for Aomine-kun. Have it delivered to his place tonight. After all, we promised to give him his gift."

"Yes Sir. It will be done." The man exited to do what was entrusted to him. When he was out of sight, the gray-eyed guy addressed the subject of the conversation.

"Ryouta, I always knew you'll be returning to my side. I was never wrong." He circled the blond, taking more of his appearance. He took a step closer to the body and noted that it was trembling. "No need to feel afraid. I'll make you feel good just like the old times."

He sniffed on his neck that earned a gasp. "Hmmm. Still sensitive on that spot." The nose was then replaced by the tongue trailing a way on the jaw down to the silky neckline. The blond shivered on disgust. The leader of the group moved to faced him again, both hands caressing the blonds' arms, massaging and squeezing.

He then cupped the cheeks and smirked when he didn't felt any resistance from his captive. "You've become quite submissive Ryouta. I would never have expected this, but it's not unappreciated." He hummed and slowly closed the distance for their lips to meet but at the last inch Kise spit on his face, his eyes blazing. "FUCK YOU."

Haizaki was caught unaware by this action. He closed his eyes and took some deep breaths, the blonds' dribble on him. He used his hand to get rid of the liquid before he stared at the Kise. His eyes devoid of any emotion but lethal intent.

"So you want to play games. I'll give you exactly what you want, pet." With that he captured the lips with brute force, forcing his way in, making the blonds orifice bleed but paid no attention whatsoever. He punishes, he crushes, and he destroys.

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Sakurai Ryo had spent his day on some fruitful activities which included cleaning off his house, doing some groceries, attending to the laundry and finishing it off by treating himself to some nice dinner. It was totally a perfect day, in all its peace and calmness.

His phone rings. Little did he know that the phone call he was about to engage in will have his perfect day and maybe his entire life turned by three hundred sixty degrees.

"Hello? Sakurai speaking."

"Manager. This is Aomine. I'm afraid I have some grave news about Kise. Brace yourself."

"Aomine-kun? Gomenasai. I think I heard you wrong. Something bad happened with Kise? But you're guarding him. What could have gone disarray?" His voice was confused and in panic.

"I know. I'm really sorry for letting things out of hand. I can't explain the whole situation now. I need your help. Kise's abduction should not be known to anyone especially the media. We'll be helping you cover this stuff. It's not wise for the public to access to this case because this is kind of delicate. Please Manager do everything you can. I'll have Kise back that I can assure you. I'm hanging up. I'll update you from time to time."

The small guy wasn't given a chance to retaliate; he wasn't even able to voice out his fear. All he was able to do is gripped the phone tightly to the point of breaking it.

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"Kagami. I expect some good news." Akashi addressed one of his subordinate. Taiga Kagami was one of those hailed as best in whatever he was entrusted with. He's undertaking an impossibly dangerous task, playing as the double-agent for the group of Shougo Haizaki. The first choice for the job was supposed to be Aomine but due to some turn of events, it wasn't pursued. More like the appearance of a certain blond in the case resulted to that.

Also, Aomine has established his name in the society. It's not wise to use him when he stands out. Surely the bad guys may have heard of him, unlike Taiga, who almost works undercover most of the time. Their team knew for some time now what connection does Kise Ryouta has with the sought-after criminal. They managed to string it all up and the final touch was delivered by what happened today.

The red-haired cop smirked with coolness. "Sir, what I have is not good news, but vital information."

There was a glint in those precarious eyes. "Is that so? Let's hear it then."

"Haizaki is suspecting that there's a mole amongst his faction. We can't blame the man for it's much of a coincidence for all those failed transactions. It seems too scripted. He halted all supposed to be dealings. I'm guessing he ordered some of his lackeys to investigate. I'm being careful so don't worry and I'm almost at the end of my act. What I have here—"

He placed some thick folders on the smaller guy's table. "–are reports. Locations, contacts, resources, some fishy companies and individuals that they have contracts with and names. Yes sir, names of those involved. You'll be shock to know that there are snakes within our very own office, in some departments of our government and such disturbing personalities that you wouldn't even dream of imagining them being involved. I have also acquired some financial statements which explain all the monetary aspect. He seems to be using different names to register in banks."

Akashi was in awe. It's not etched on his impassive face but the tone he used gave him away. "Excellent job, Taiga."

He murmured while his hands were busy flipping the pages. Eyes narrowed then widened, lips thinning and jaw dropping. This is beyond what he has expected. Kagami Taiga surpassed his expectations.

"Are this authentic?" He has to make sure before taking any further action. They only have one shot and if it's not according to what he plans then all of their effort will be wasted.

"Of course it is Sir. I have access to their most guarded offices and meetings. Being the right-hand of the right hand have its reward."

Akashi hummed and snapped his eyes back to the outstanding agent. A more pressing issue needed to be addressed.

"Putting this aside, is Kishimoto not suspecting you at all?"

The man across him grinned. "I'm a good actor."

"This is not the time for your jokes." His eyes flared dangerously.

"Nah. I'm positive that the idiot doesn't suspect anything. They are all cowards. Puppets of that bastard Haizaki. All of them are being used. I think it's safe to assume that they will be disposed of sooner. Before that happens we have to take them in custody to strengthen the evidence we have." His expression turned serious.

"Hmmm. Haizaki has finally managed to abduct Kise Ryouta."

"WHAT?!" Kagami spluttered. "But— Isn't Daiki with him? How the hell did this happen?" His tone was indignant and it seems that he momentarily forgot that he's still in front of his superior.

"That is a good question and I believe we can hear the entire incident first-hand." His eyes roved towards the door. "Aomine, you can come in now."

The blue-haired man stepped in. He didn't acknowledge Kagami who's now on his feet, brows furrowed. He gave a respected salute which was acknowledged before he settled himself at the other pair of seat directly with Kagami's.

"Ahomine." The tone that the double agent adapted was wrapped in ferocity and slight disappointment.

"Bakagami." It was returned with the same intensity and both tall guys engaged in a battle of hard gazes. One can almost expect sparks to fly out between.

"Boys." Both were pulled off from their own little world and simultaneously rendered their full attention to the man in front of them.

Akashi has his hands clasped in the table. Face devoid with emotions; he looked from the guy on his left to the guy on his right. Two of the bestest they have yet when they meet they resemble teenagers who appears to be battling over some girl. He smirked at that thought. Both never liked girls in the first place. Though he knows that their bond is one of the strongest too, one that can never be broken. He coughed.

"Aomine here already briefed me on the incident at Kise's house this afternoon." He told the tale to the man who has an enormous appetite.

"Shoichi was shot?" His eyes were wide with disbelief. "You fucking asshole! Look at what you've done!" He charged at Aomine, scuffing his shirt. His breath at the tanned guys face but the latter didn't try to defend himself.

"Taiga." There was a silent menace in the guy who bears such weird eyes. Kagami backed down but his eyes were blazing.

"Well Aomine, is there something you want to say?" He inclined his head sideways to give permission for the dark guy to talk.

"Sir, allow me first to apologize again. I may have acted ignorantly which has caused for Shoichi's life to be at stake and also Kise's. I am ashamed for what has happened but I want to shoulder the entire responsibility for this."

He shifted his gaze to Kagami. "Kagami, I'm sorry. I know I've failed you when I had our friend's life put in danger. I can offer no excuses because it's my entire fault. But I am now humbly asking for your help to retrieve Ryouta from Haizaki. I know you're working on this case." Sincerity was reflected in the dark orbs.

"You're lucky I have some info about it and you're lucky that I don't rip your balls right here right now for being careless."

Aomine smirked. "You're not too Bakagami after all."

"I can say the same for you, Ahomine!"

"You two, stop bickering now. I need your full attention." When he got the concentration he need from both guys he continued with the arrangement.

"What we need is to devise a plan. I have to plant some of our officers to spy around the safe houses that Kagami here has gathered to be sure where Kise is. There are around five of them. I'll disperse some men around midnight. If we find out where, and hopefully it'll only take a few hours to figure it out, it only seems logical that Haizaki Shougo is there as well. The operation is of arrest and rescue. We retrieve Kise and we capture Haizaki along with his men. Then we track those that aren't present in their hole." He tapped the folders containing the data. "All we need is here."

Silence. The superior was still contemplating on something. "You two will be the captains. I'm counting on you. I need you two early tomorrow morning here. We have to gather enough manpower and weapons to use. As to what Kagami has provided me, there are numerous pawns that Haizaki manipulates. We must exercise prudence. Now go home, get plenty of rest and tomorrow night we charge."

At almost the same time, the two cops rise and saluted to their own boss. Akashi almost lazily flicked a hand and the two were gone in his office in an instant. He massaged his forehead. This is going to be difficult. He has to make sure that everything will go as he wishes.

As soon as the two guys closed the door, the red-haired snarled at the blue-haired guy.

"What the fucking hell is wrong with you? I never knew you can be so careless! Imayoshi and Kise! Damn Aomine, have you lost your touch? Guess it's time for you to retire." He wants to piss of this better guy to make him realize just how stupid he is for letting this happen. But the other didn't play on the bait.

Aomine sighed and placed his hands in his pockets before looking at some particular spot, his gaze floating off. "I know Kagami. I trust Imayoshi that's why I asked him to guard Kise. If you're not on your mission I would have pick you. We know Shiochi is not much of an action guy compared to us but still I believe in him and he didn't fail me at all. I deduced that he defended Kise with the inch of his life but I guess those bastards are too much for him. They caught him unprepared. I—"

He looked at Kagami and the guy held his gaze. "I regret it, but what's done is done. No time for unnecessary musing. Well, would you like to come with me? I'll treat you to dinner and we may visit Shiochi."

"Now you're talking. Let's go."

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By the time the two guys are enjoying their meal, the blond was being pushed to his limits. He was lead in a bedroom. No windows. There was a massive bed and a cabinet to the side. Kise was thrown on the soft mattress and before he can heave a breath, Haizaki was already on top of him, working on his wrists. He grabbed something from the drawer that looks like a tie. He snatched two of them. His left hand pinning both of the blonds' and his right tying it to the headboard. When the hands are securely in place he paid his attention on the other tie. He lustfully looked at Kise whose fear only feeds his desire to own him and mark him.

"Now we can't have you spitting on me again. Though I love to hear your moans and plead me thrust into you faster, I guess I can still enjoy your strangled sounds. Actually that reverberates to pleasure as well. So let's part those lips now Kise." The model did otherwise. He pressed his lips tightly.

"Ah, such stubborn child. You push me to do things." Leaving the bed, he walked towards the cabinet withdrawing a whip. He glanced at the lying body. "I know I would have found some use for this. Let's look forward to some nice playing pet. Scream as much as you want."

The light-haired man approached him and unfastens the belt that holds his pants. He yanked it off against the resisting body without so much effort. He ripped the shirt and was now blessed by the naked glory that was protected by only a piece of black boxers.

"Since you don't want to comply with my orders, I'll show you how I punish obstinate people. Oh. It's on a much different level than before Ryouta. This time I'll make sure you'll remember it for the rest of your life." He slides his hand on the exposed nubs, pinching, twisting and pulling harshly.

The lithe body thrashed and struggled to undo the bonds. He refrained from spilling any sound. He would not give the bastard the joy of hearing his voice in whatever form, be it moan, shriek or cry. He continued to move until a lashed of whip made contact with his thigh. He gasped with the searing pain he felt. His breath hitched and before he can recover he sensed another one whisk at the same spot.

There were now angry marks on his smooth fair skin. Unwillingly, tears formed. Hit after hit and Kise felt his world was coming to an end. He screamed tearing the peacefulness of the night. He was shaking badly. His thighs which were the focus of the whipping were bathed in crimson liquid. He was bleeding. But Haizaki didn't stop. He landed some punches on his torso until it bruised almost to the point of breaking the skin. The blond moaned in pain. He arched his back.

"Now, that's more I like it pet. Such enticing sound. It fuels me to do more cruel stuff to you." Haizaki has now beads of sweat forming on his temple and his breathing is ragged. He bit his lower lip and gave the blonds body an all-over. Eyes roaming the unblemished fairness which now hosts some red horizontal blotches.

The models' face is adorned with tears and his lips have droplets of blood. He must have bit himself to stop eliciting sounds. He fastened his hand on the blonds' jaw keeping his face on place. He licked the luscious lips tasting iron on his own. He sucked and bit. Kise didn't respond but he didn't react either. Not bad. He will learn to comply and succumb to me.

Kise's mind was in a haze. He wanted to die, to escape the pain and disgrace. He wanted out. His eyes were out of focus. They were glassy and bear no emotion. And then— he heard it. It's a hallucination nothing else, he was sure of it. For how come Aomine can speak to him when he's here with Haizaki. Ah it's his subconscious mind.

Kise, I will save you. Wait for me. Trust me.

It was a mantra repeating over and over. Yes. Aomine will save him. He shouldn't give up so easily like that. He has to do his part. For Sakurai, his manager who loves him, for Imayoshi who staked his life, for Aomine who cares for him and for himself, because there are people who'll be lonely and disappointed if he gives in without a fight. He lifted one of feet and kicked Haizaki in his stomach. The taller man stumbled back not expecting the attack. He got on his feet and slapped the guy. The force made the face angled to the right. The pain doesn't matter. The blond however was surprised to know that he can bear it.

"You bastard. You can't do anything. You can't escape here, you can't escape me."

Kise snickered until it turned to somewhat maniacal laugh. He looked at Haizaki, his eyes showing strength and unyielding control. "You can't break me anymore. You can use my body over and over. You can fuck me raw, you can beat me to near death, you can even make me suck you off but I'm telling you will only get this body physically. Only my body, not me Haizaki. Because I belong to someone long ago before I met you. He has my heart and you only get bits of me. How pitiful."

The stalker narrowed his eyes. Where does Kise get his strength? And why does he have so much faith for the cop? He gritted his teeth. He doesn't give a damn. He's not worried. He has Kise and he will make sure no one can have him. If it's needed he will kill the blond just to ensure that no other man can possess this male.

"You grew some confidence. Do you actually believe that Aomine will save you? The question is can he even attempt to? He will be dead before he can approach me."

"I believe him because I love him." The tone he used was full of conviction and affection.

"We'll see it then. I hope your body can endure my loving until your knight snatch you off from my grasp."

He slowly closed the distance between them. Gazes met in a combat. The brown orbs locked with the gray. As Haizaki was lifting his hand to strike, a knock stopped him. He scowled. Aido knows that he doesn't want to be disturbed unless it comes with an urgent reason.

He yanked the door open, letting his man enter.

"You very well have such important thing to say with this disturbance. I am quite busy." Both of them looked at Kise.

Aido was trained to shut down his emotions and while Kise was sprawled almost naked in his eyes with blood and bruises all over him, he didn't even flinch nor bat an eyelash. His boss was not famous for being gentle.

"If you're here to tell me that you've delivered Aomine our gift, there's no need to do so."

"Sir, it's not that, although yes, I did that one already. I have some bad news apparently." The gazed of Haizaki hardened. Aido continued. "We have figured out who the mole is amongst our men." He stopped.

"That's not what you call a bad news, Aido."

"Yes, Sir. But actually it causes more trouble than it's worth. The spy is Taiga Kagami. A police officer working under Akashi Seijuro and is relatively close to Aomine Daiki. He slipped into our men as Kishimoto-san's right hand. He got his hands on our operations. I believe he's fairly well-informed on the organization. He might have all the information about us Sir."

"Is that so? Where is this Kagami? And Kishimoto?"

"Kagami is not within any of our safety house. He must be playing the cop role now. As for Kishimoto-san, he's currently in his residence. I'll summon him right away."

"Tell our men to remain sharp. It's only a matter of time before the police track us. Call every higher-up in the conference room. I want them there in ten minutes. We'll work on a plan."

Fujikawa nodded and left. The leader frowned. What timing. He placed his attention back to Kise.

"Seems like it's your lucky day. I have to first eradicate the vermin before we can enjoy ourselves again Kise. Look forward to it." With that he's gone.

The blond was left alone. He was aching all over but hearing Aomine's name fired him up. He's gonna come and rescue me! He was clinging to the only hope left on him. He was smiling before he slipped into unconsciousness.

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The nurse was sullen. It was past the visiting hours and there's these two guys towering over her asking for a certain man's room number. Incidentally that room is supposed to be off-limits to anyone aside from authorized personnel.

"With all due respect Sirs, I can't disclose such information. The said room is heavily guarded and civilians can't just see the patient unless it does deem necessary. You have to acquire permission first." She patiently explained hoping it will suffice and these two leave her alone. As much as both of them look good, still she can't disregard her duty.

"But Miss, we told you we are police officers and friends with the patient, Shoichi. We need to talk to him now. This can't wait." The red-haired argue with the petite lady. They were having the same conversation for ten minutes now. Aomine's not helping. He was leaning on the wall with a frown on his face.

She's on the verge of counterattacking when a hand landed on her shoulder. It was one of their Directors.

"Dr. Mitsui!"

"Nurse, these guys here are allowed to see the patient in that room. You can now leave and thank you for being on your guard." Hisashi Mitsui smiled at her. The nurse blushed and excused herself.

"Oh man Hisashi! Still the lady killer!"

"Shut up Bakagami." Although the doctor smirked. "Now I believe you two needs to see Shoichi. Room is 309, in the left wing. Well I have to go."

"Thank you Hisashi." Aomine acknowledged him. The medical man just shrugged and took the opposite way.

"That guy never changes right? It seems like yesterday when we were playing in that run down court across the street and you two always compete to see whose better. We know it's me anyway. Hehe. Now the jerk's all divine in his uniform." Kagami shook his head but pride can be detected in his tone.

"Yes. We've all grown right? Oh, with the exception of you Taiga." The tanned guy teased.

"Stupid Ahomine! Come on let's see Shoichi."

They arrived at the room bearing the number 309. There were two policemen outside. Looking at the arriving visitors, one wrenched the door open. There on the bed, Imayoshi was laid. He was reading some magazine and he lifted his face when he heard the door clicked.

"Shiochi you bastard!" Imayoshi offered a grin. He winced when he tried to sit up.

"Don't move yet. We just wanted to check on you and ask some things." Aomine grabbed the chair and Kagami settle himself on the foot of the bed, he remained standing.

The glasses guy frowned a bit. "Here's what happened. Kise was napping on the living room when I heard something at the back. I checked it out and saw one guy who spells trouble. I had to trick him since I can't defend myself while he's pointing a gun on my head. Luckily, I was able to escape and alert Kise. We were the chased by three guys. I managed to exterminate two but the last one got me. I was shot and I asked Kise to flee and call Aomine here. But unfortunately, it didn't happen as planned. He was still caught. Sorry Aomine, I should have been more equipped and ready." His expression is of guilt and self-loathing.

Aomine looked intently at Imayoshi before saying slowly "Shoichi, you did more than enough. It surpassed my expectations of you. It's me who should be blamed. But you my friend, did great. I can never ask for more. Let me express my regret for placing your life in danger."

"Nah. You know I'll die happily if it's for the reason of fulfilling my duty and saving a friend. Nothing is more rewarding than that. Anyway, don't worry about me. The doctor said I'll be spending at least a couple of weeks here and I wasn't shot at any vital point. So I regard this as my vacation." He grinned.

"Before I forget, I think that subordinate of Haizaki said that he'll be sending you something. Be careful. It might be a trap." He added seriously.

"I know about that. He spoke to me before I got at Kise's house. Kagami, have any idea what that might be?"

The red-haired shook his head. "I am not trusted enough to be included in anything that relates to their leader's personal transactions. I have no idea about it."

The blue-haired guy hummed. "Guess I'll check it myself if I got it. Shoichi, we're planning on charging tomorrow night. Taiga here has procured enough data that we need. You can be sure I'll have Kise back. He still owes us that dinner right?"

The black-haired guy chuckled. "Yes. I'm still looking forward to that dinner."

"Hey! Let me join in that meal too!"

"No! You'll end up devouring all the food!"

"Bah! Let me, let me!"

"You two stop it. You're causing ruckus. We're in the hospital, mind you guys. You better get your fat asses off here and prepare yourselves. Visit me again when all of this is over."

Both guys snickered. Aomine rose from his chair and stood beside Kagami.

"See you later Shiochi! I'm glad we have a friend like you."

"So melodramatic Bakagami."

"Shut up jerk. It's not every day that we got the chance to be like this. Well, we're heading off." He saluted to the black-haired guy that was returned as enthusiastically. Aomine jerked his head before vanishing from the glasses guy's eyes.

|.|

Once out of the hospital's premises, Aomine addressed the other.

"Kagami, I'm going home. Want to spend the night with me?"

"Gross man!"

"Stupid. I'm not implying anything dirty. Get that filthy mind of yours cleaned. I'm thinking maybe we can plan ahead for tomorrow's operation."

"Sounds nice. But I have to work on my report. Although I gave all acquired data, I still have to compile them again and provide explanations. The drill you know. I'm supposed to be the hero here, why am I still doing desk job?" The big guy actually pouted.

Aomine offered a smirk as his sympathy. "Alright hero, go home and write your report. See you tomorrow."

The red-haired guy scowled. "I'm gonna kick some asses tomorrow Ahomine and then I'll help you rescue your blond princess."

"I don't need your help. I can manage just fine. You should watch your back. I'm quite sure they won't be merciful enough to spare their once-comrade."

"Ah. It's all part of the job." Kagami shrugged. "Then, see you at Akashi's office. Bye."

The blue-haired nodded and took the opposite direction where his car is parked. This is going to be a long night, yes, a long night indeed. Aomine was set on dealing with the guys but he wasn't able to prepare mentally for the surprise that's waiting for him in his own home.

He arrived in his flat. It almost seems strange. He has spent some time in Kise's house and being back to his own place kind of appear unnatural. He has used on waking up in the familiar warm abode. His residence's pale compared to the blonds' which welcoming and feels really like a home. He shook his head and placed his keys on the table, he flipped the light on. His attention was caught by the rectangular sealed envelope. He knotted his forehead. Who could have—? Is this what that enemy guy is talking about?"

He grabbed the covered paper and head straight to the couch. He ripped it quite forcefully and then—

Photos. A CD. More photos.

His floor was littered with them. There's got to be at least a hundred of coloured and black and white pictures. It's all of Kise's and a man. Shougo Haizaki. He was frozen. It took him quite some time before he collected himself and gather the strength to pick a couple and even more courage to look at them. His hands are shaking.

There in glossy six by eight inches a younger-looking Kise was sprawled on the bed in naked glory. Hair tussled, eyes half lidded but shown enough lust and aching to be taken, his face dusted with blush, there seems to be some sticky white liquid in his stomach and Aomine figured that it's the blonds' seeds and even if he seems to have cum, his member was as hard as rock, standing proudly and in darker shade in contrast with the milky skin.

Sensing it's not enough the other photo contained Haizaki mounting Kise. Sweat covering both sturdy bodies and Aomine doesn't need to be a genius to figure out that the two guys are having sex. The hands on Haizaki's back were clutching the skin. Even with the stilled image Aomine can almost see them rocking the bed; the top guy thrusting with undeniable force that is met by the bucked hips of the blond. It was both convulsing and enticing.

Aomine forced himself not to look anymore. Giving a fast survey on the other photos, he concluded that they are all taken when Kise was living with Haizaki years ago. Some showed Kise being tied up by cuffs and his body peppered with bruises. There was one were Kise was gagged, another shows a dildo being shoved on him. The more he looks the more extreme they become.

There seems some struggle from the blond clearly depicting that he doesn't want what they are doing. One illustrates Haizaki pressing Kise's chest with a cigarette and the model's expression was of pain and terror while the light-haired man was burying his own erection on the blonds' hole. It was too much for Aomine. He wants to puke but mostly he wants to cry. The urge to break something is building up and he needed to release his fury, to scream in the night, to punch and hurt Haizaki until he's a cripple or better yet, dead.

No one has the right to do that to Kise. He's a precious person. He's kind, warm and exuberant. Everyone wants to befriend him. He's the source of happiness and one can't help but to be attracted to him. But for Haizaki to do that, he must be really sick and twisted. He claimed the blond in a brutal and cruel way. Aomine was shaking with rage. What he will not give just to see Haizaki pleading for his life?

With all the things he saw fate must really want to be so cruel. The CD glints against the luminosity. He picked it up and was having second thoughts. Is there a need to see what's in this thing? Are the pictures not enough? What more could have this object hold? Can I still bear this?

The tanned guy sighed. He closed his eyes contemplating on his next move. Jaws clenched, fists balled, he gather his remaining strength. He turned his player on and placed the CD. The start was just a black monitor, scarce of anything. Aomine judging that this is just a piece of joke, he decided to stop it off but before his finger touched the button, sound reverberates and the monitor flashed.

Not want to believe what he's seeing, Aomine stared intently hoping that it will stop or change into some cartoons. There on his TV screen, the reality of the photos was taken to life. Kise and Haizaki engaged in a heated performance. Like two bodies being instructed to do a feat, they moved in rhythm almost like it's the most natural thing in the world.

The tanned guy was mesmerized. It brought back memories when he was the one doing that with Kise and suddenly he felt disgusted with himself. There he was, being a jerk again thinking of worldly thoughts when Kise's in such danger. If Haizaki wants him so badly he should have treated Kise nicely. He shouldn't have resorted to violence. But maybe that's just how Haizaki is. He doesn't give importance to anyone at all.

For him, Kise might just be another object he wants to own. Being in that bastards hand is like living in demon's lair. With that thinking his rage bubbled once more. His thoughts flew to Kise's. He wasn't even sure if the blond is fine, of course he isn't. He snapped back to his rationale and stopped the film. He laid his head on the back of the couch and closed his eyes. His insides are swirling with emotions that are too fast for him to acknowledge each one of them. Only a few surfaced: hatred, revenge, regret and impatience.

He can't wait for tomorrow. He knows no fear. He'll get Kise back and teach Haizaki his place which can only equal to hell. With a growl he opened his eyes, there's a glint in them, the desire to hurt a specific person and the desire to see Kise, to feel him in his arms, to soothe his heart and mind that he's safe and once again beside him.

This time he won't back down. This time he'll make sure that no one will ever hurt Kise. This time he'll tell Kise how much he loves him. This time, there'll be no one and he say no one will ever come between them. This time he'll make Kise happy. This time he'll spoil him. This time it'll be his turn to pamper the blond. This time he never let him go. This time he won't be such jerk anymore. This time is all about Kise, his happiness and his everything. This time it's Kise's turn to smile and look into his eyes with trust and love. This is the time. It's Aomine's time to make it happen. So Kise, wait for me. Wait for me my love.

EDITED: February 07, 2014