Disclaimer: I do not own Junjou Romantica
{~0~}
You Got Mail
(11:27pm Italy : 6:27am Japan)
Dawn broke as bright rays appeared across the sky creating a radiant aura. The birds chirped and flew off from branches and onto the edges of the fountain. They pecked on the water to drink, creating small ripples to the calm clear water.
The packages have been delivered to their destination. Now it was up to the receiver to open them.
Mahiro jumped onto his parents bed and prodded his father's face before moving onto poke his mother's forehead.
"Nnn not now sweety," Manami mumbled in her sleep.
"Mama."
Manami slowly opened her sleepy eyes to see her son sitting in between them. He lifted the brown teddy bear Usagi had given to him for his birthday and shook it repeatedly, hoping to attract attention from his mother . The mother smiled and gently caressed her son's soft cheeks.
" Shh sweety. You don't want to wake papa up."
"Mama, " Mahiro cooed. The little boy wanted his mother to feed him to quench his hunger.
Takahiro laid lethargically on the bed with the side of his head buried into the soft pillow. Nightmares of Misaki haunted him at night. He would toss and turn and shiver as he dreamt of the darkness engulfing Misaki. He would always have the same dream every night of his little brother being surrounded by the dark silent mist. His face was blank, emotionless, almost seemed robotic. A dark humanoid shadow was always seen hovering above him as if it were attached to his presence. The repetitive dreams left Takahiro confused on the meaning behind his nightmare. He blamed it on his foolish mind for conjuring up these abhorrent dreams. What he needed was proper rest and a stress reliever. However Misaki's disappearance was still fairly recent and the healing capacity for those grieving were still fractional.
Manami rose from her resting spot and lifted her son up from under his shoulders and carried him outside. She didn't want Mahiro to disturb his father. Takahiro was already having trouble falling asleep that his boss even recommended that he undergo therapy so that he could be prescribed with sedatives. Despite the concerns he had received, he declined their remedial suggestions.
Manami placed Mahiro on the lounge room floor next to his plushy toys. The woman crept back into their bedroom to properly dress out of her robe and into proper clothes consisting of polo shirts and jeans. She organized her husband's work clothes and headed out to the kitchen. She yanked open the fridge and removed a pot of leftover miso soup. Mahiro waddled to his mother and tugged her leg. She ignored his tugs that he would do ever since the day he could crawl. Pouring the soup contents with a ladle into a bowl, she later placed it into a microwave to warm up the soup. After a few swirls around the radiative heat it was time to feed her son breakfast.
Two hours later.
Takahiro adjusted his tie in front of the mirror. The reflection of himself revealed signs of dark circles and bags under his eyes. Ignoring these blemishes he paced into the living room to retrieve his bag for work. He was late for work as he overslept. Manami and Mahiro sat on the lounge watching their morning cartoon shows. Takahiro pecked on his wife and son's head before heading out towards the door.
" See you Manami. See you Mahiro."
" See you honey. Don't stress too much. Take care at work," Manami said with caring tone.
Dressed into his black leather shoes he stepped out onto the front entrance only to notice a brown mail that was left lying on the floor outside his apartment. Now this was strange, he thought. Mail packages were never left outside unless the receiver had signed them. Furthermore mails were only delivered into his letterbox and not directly outside his front door. This was suspicious. Picking up the medium brown thin envelop he read over the jet black ink writing on the front of the mail. Could this be from his wife's family? It couldn't, who could it be? The mail wasn't specifically sent to him or to his wife but rather stated it was to be delivered to the Takahashi family. It has to be from his wife's family the naïve man thought until he turned the mail over to read the back.
His mouth gaped wide open, his pupils widened and his hands tremored as he read the black writing.
'From your loving Misaki Takahashi. Please read me, dear family'
Its from Misaki! Does that mean he's alive! If so this a great news or is it? Takahiro needed to open this mail. He needed to confirm that his younger sibling was unharmed and not described as his nightmare. Gripping tightly on the envelop he stormed back inside his apartment and sat down by the dinner table. Manami was baffled by her husband's sudden intrusion and distressful body language. She rose from her spot, Mahiro was glued to the his favorite cartoon shows.
She placed her palm on his shoulders as she stood beside his right " Honey are you okay?" she asked in concern. She noticed him holding an envelop and read the top writing. " Hm, who sent the mail?".
Takahiro held the envelop tightly in his hands. He turned to face his wife who gazed down onto him in curiosity. All she saw in his eyes were worriment and uneasiness.
" What's wrong Takahiro? Your starting to make me worry here."
" Its from Misaki. I don't know what to do. I don't know what this mail contains. It may be confronting. I don't know what to do Manami."
" Misaki?!" she gasped out loud. " Open it, that means he's alive. Let's see what he has to say."
His wife was right. He needed to open the mail to find out why Misaki disappeared without telling anyone. The pressure was brewing inside his mind. He couldn't take it anymore, he needed to know what was in the mail this instance. No more cowardice behaviors. If the contents were confronting, he would need to hold himself together. Falling apart now would not help resolve Misaki's disappearance.
"Your right. I need to know if Misaki is safe," he said in determination.
With his fingers he traced the outer corners to find the glued edges. Once his fingers were caught underneath the corner flap of the envelop he ripped along the edges to open the mail. The envelop was now opened and he pulled out what it appears to be a medium card the size of an A4 paper. The pair gazed down onto the pink decorative card that had silver and peach sparkles with cream ribbons on the corners. The card was interestingly cute but it was the content inside that had them perturbed. He placed his thumbs in between the gaps of the card, ready to open and to reveal what was inside.
"Here it goes," he huffed under his voice.
His thumb motioned the card apart.
"AHHH!"
The pair shriek upon witnessing the graphic images of Misaki's bloodied body. A collage of the four photos were organized to fit on the left side of the card while a message was printed on the right. Takahiro's hand gripped tightly onto the card in anguished pain as he stared into the photos trying to decipher it, hoping what he was seeing was fake. Either this was a prank or Misaki was definitely physically harmed, this was no laughing matter.
Mahiro heard his parent's shriek and waddled into the dining room. He dawdled to his mother and tugged her pants, hoping to gain her attention. Manami turned swiftly around to remove her son away from the room so that he would be unable to peek at the disturbing images. She placed him back on the lounge where his toys and cartoons distracted him. After she made Mahiro comfortable, she scurried back to her husband's side to support him.
Takahiro was seen reading the message on the card. Tears were seen rolling down his cheeks as he read along the lines. His chest tightened and his throat felt dry as feeling of sadness filled inside him. Manami read along the lines as well which wrote:
' To the Takahashi family,
Hello, I hope your having a wonderful day without the presence of Misaki near you. Such a pity. Oh don't worry too much, the brat is still alive. I just wanted to show you how much I care for him. Such a pretty sight isn't it. No need to search for him. I own him now. He will be well looked after in my care.
From the rightful owner of Misaki.'
Takahiro closed the card and laid it down on the table. Unwilling to bear the pain anymore he began to sob uncontrollably. He covered his face with his left palm while the other arm rested on the table. Manami patted and rubbed his back as she watched him breakdown. She felt sorry for what her husband had to go through. Manami herself also felt pained by the situation as she had accepted Misaki as her own younger brother.
" Why Misaki? Why my little brother? Why him?" Takahiro cried.
Why was his brother targeted? Did anyone hold anything against him or his family? If so who would commit such heinous acts towards him. Takahiro needed to know.
" I know your upset Takahiro but the most important thing is that Misaki is still alive."
" I don't know Manami. This is too much to bear,". Takahiro took a deep breath and wiped away his tears. " I feel so hopeless…I…I need to call Usagi," he stuttered in a low tone. " We have to alert the detective."
" What about work?"
" Don't worry about work. This is an emergency."
He needed to alert his best friend about the dreadful news. After all Usagi was the one who hired the private detective to help them locate Misaki. Takahiro pulled out his flip up cell phone and punched in the buttons to call Usagi. He held the phone close to his ear and waited for his friend to answer.
[~¥~]
(SFX Cell Phone Ringing)
"Nnngrr," the silver haired groaned.
The constant ringing disrupted his sleep. Feeling groggy, he motioned his lifeless arm to reach for his phone that he placed on the drawers by his bed. He patted on the table to search for his phone. He hated the mornings. Who would call him early at this time? After a few pats he felt his phone and grabbed it. Bringing it closer to his face, his accepted the call without looking at the caller ID.
" Hello?" he answered groggily.
["Usagi!"] came the frantic voice of Takahiro.
The silver haired eyes widened. "Takahiro?! What's wrong? Is everything alright? You sound troubled."
["Usagi, I need your help. I'm coming over now. I need you to call the detective now. Something bad has happened!"]
" What do you mean something bad has happened? Are you hurt?!"
["I'm fine but I fear someone is playing a prank on us. Usagi…Misaki is alive but…]
Akihiko sat up instantly and interrupted Takahiro. " Did you just say Misaki is alive? Where? How do you know this?". Akihiko's heart raced upon hearing Misaki's name and the word alive.
["Usagi. I don't know but someone sent me confronting images of Misaki in a mail to my family,"]. There was a deep sigh. [I'm worried about Misaki but I'm also worried about my family. Somebody knows where I live. I'm worried about my family's safety. I'm coming over there now."]
"Takahiro, what do you mean confronting images? Is Misaki there with you?"
["No Misaki is not here. The images are very disturbing. Usagi we need to show this to the detective. I'll be there with my family. I'm not leaving them behind. Its not safe."]
" Okay. Stay safe Takahiro," Akihiko replied in a concerned tone.
The line ended and Akihiko scrunched tightly on his phone. What were the confronting images? Was Misaki harmed? He better not be Akihiko thought.
His phone rang again.
Was it Takahiro again? He gazed down at the phone screen.
"Haruhiko?!".
Akihiko answered the phone.
"What is it? This better be good."
[Akihiko! I'm coming over. This is urgent. It's about Misaki."]
[~¥~]
7:30 am at the Usami Residence before Takahiro woke up.
Haruhiko had difficulties falling asleep since the incident last night. He laid there restlessly, tossing and turning in reminiscence guilt ever since the rejection. Why must the desperate pleas of the brunette remain constant in his head? The man didn't want his emotions to control him. He was used to being cold, arrogant and living life to where people expected him to be like his father. Misaki was the only person he feel in love with. But why was Jiro's voice and his puppy like eyes stuck in his head. Compared to Misaki, Jiro displayed raw emotions that touched his heart. He remembered when he removed the cuffs from the brunette, the boy refused to latch off him. Begging, sobbing and pleading continuously until Haruhiko gave in. No matter how many times he had rejected the brunette, the boy still fought for his freedom. He demonstrated his strength and courage. Something that Haruhiko was not used to seeing in a human and it captivated him.
His alarm rang.
Haruhiko shook his head in frustration. It was time to get ready for work. Dressed in his suit as always, he adjusted his tie. His father should be awake by now. That man never rests when it comes to his corporation.
(SFX Knock Knock)
Someone had knocked on Haruhiko's bedroom door.
"Come in."
The door opened and in came Tanaka. He bowed to formally greet him.
" Haruhiko sir, your father requests for you immediately."
Haruhiko nodded at the notice and went straight to his father's office. He approached the brown closed door and opened it to find his father sitting behind his central desk. His father didn't raise his head upon his son's entrance. Something was wrong and Haruhiko could tell by his body language. The old man's posture was rigid as he stared down with an almost disquieted expression.
"You called for me?" he asked. Haruhiko moved closer to the desk. He noticed a paper sized pink card on the desk between his father's spread resting arms.
Fuyuhiko sighed. " This is why I don't want you two getting involved in anything relating to Misaki."
Haruhiko was confused at the moment until his father slid the card across the table towards him. Staring down at the pink card, he lifted it up. Slowly analyzing the decorative design, he proceeded to open the card.
"Gah!" he gasped at the pictures of Misaki's beaten body. "What the hell is this!?" he bellowed as he read the message Armel had written to Fuyuhiko and the Usami residents .
'To the Usami family or specifically to Usami Fuyuhiko
Hello. I hope everything with your corporation is going as planned. You know with all the threats and bullying of the innocent. Right now I'm bullying someone innocent whom you might know. You know his name. He won't be joining you for lunch, I'm sorry since he's mine now. And don't be alarmed he's still alive. I promise I'll look after him with the best care. You don't have to worry about him becoming your future son-in-law. You can worry about your atrocious company which I hope won't succeed. Fuyuhiko, one day I'll see you dead, including your sons. But I'll do that later, right now I'm having fun with Misaki.
From your worst enemy.'
Haruhiko slammed the card down on the desk with his palm. His face withered with fury." Does he think he can threaten us like that?!".
"Haruhiko. I don't know who sent this but don't you think coincidently we received this threat after you two went down there to look for Misaki?".
" How do you even know it was because of us? It says it was specifically for you. How did you get this card and when?"
"Tanaka found it this morning outside the front door. Someone must of trespassed. My men are looking into it now."
Haruhiko took a step back to think thoroughly. He turned to glance at his father. "It doesn't make sense."
"What doesn't make sense? It's clear that we are dealing with a stalker who has something against our corporation and is now seeking vengeance."
" Then how does he or she know about Misaki's relationship…unless someone…wait! Jiro?!". Haruhiko suddenly realized the only person that knew Misaki was in a relationship was him.
" You mean the prostitute? I had some of my men stay behind to find that boy last night after you two left. I didn't want to deal with the risk associated so I had it removed."
"What?!". His face turned to a cold glare. "You didn't harm him did you?!"
" No we just simply removed him from that environment and interrogated him. I'm quite surprised with his resemblance to Misaki."
" What do you mean? What have you done to him?". Haruhiko furrowed his brows as he questioned his father.
Fuyuhiko pressed the button on the phone next to his right. "Tadao you can enter my office now,". He then resumed back to face his son with his fingers intertwined into a fist on the table. "Tadao should be here."
"What do you mean he should be-?"
Haruhiko was interrupted when Tadao entered the room with someone behind him.
"Jiro?!" Haruhiko yelled. He was shock to see the brunette here who was still dressed in his white robe.
"Haruhiko?!". The brunette was also shocked to see him here too.
Tadao moved closer to his boss. "Sir we've checked the parameter. Its all secured. I'll have more guards stationed around the mansion and set up the patrols in the property. We'll try our best to ensure your safety," said the black short haired guard.
In the meantime while Fuyuhiko discussed security measures with Tadao, Haruhiko and Jiro stood there in awkward silence. Jiro kept his head down like always before Haruhiko approached him.
"Are you okay? What happened?"
The boy lifted his head, he flinched slightly but later expressed a disappointed face. Jiro was still mad at Haruhiko for rejecting him last night.
" I'm fine. Can't believe those men purchased me to be here. What's going to happen to me?" he asked with a concerned and anxious face.
" I don't know. Hang on. I need to question my father."
"Father?" Jiro mumbled under his breath in surprise. That man was Haruhiko's father? Jiro was only introduced to Fuyuhiko this morning. Not many youths nowadays cared about the families of the corporations, neither did Jiro.
" Father what is going to happen to Jiro?" Haruhiko interrupted his father and Tadao. The two men conversing paused and turned to face Haruhiko.
" Well that's the difficult part,". Fuyuhiko sighed. " He can't be taken back to his family. He knows too much therefore he would not only be a risk to us but also a risk to his family. Any information leaked about the underground city and every criminal and syndicate will be after his head. I've already told him this but overall I have no use for him. Maybe he'll be useful for you and Akihiko to get Misaki out of your heads. So do whatever you want with it, just keep it out of my sight."
Jiro felt disheartened over the conversation but he remained quiet. He knew what Fuyuhiko meant but he didn't want to be somebody's whore. Haruhiko's eyelid twitched at the comment. This was going to be problematic. He didn't have time to babysit Jiro while trying to find Misaki and balance out his work. This was going to be a difficult and stressful time for him.
" Ahem. Aside from Jiro's situation what's going to happen now? Are we going to investigate who did this?".
"Tadao is taking care of the investigation."
" How is he suppose to locate Misaki?"
"Oh he's not. We're just ensuring the safety of the Usamis and preventing another threat."
"What?! So your not investigating Misaki! How selfish can you be?!"
"Haruhiko. Whatever is happening to Misaki, there's not much we can do. I'm sorry. I wish I can help Misaki but there are too many risks involved and unanswered questions."
" Excuses! Your just afraid. If your not going to find Misaki then fine. We don't need your help!"
"HARUHIKO!" his father shouted. The old man stood from his chair and slammed his left fist on the table to demonstrate his authority. Everybody in the room jumped slightly when the man displayed his fury. "I am not making excuses! You need to wake up to reality! Damn! You know what…just…whatever is happening now, you don't even know how big this is. Don't rush into something you can't get out off,".
"How do you even know this is big? It might just be a group of small criminals or psychopath that maybe doing this," Haruhiko argued back.
Fuyuhiko opened the card and pointed at the third photo for his son to see. "You see that wall behind Misaki's face. You tell me what that is, as an architect you should know."
Haruhiko gazed down at the photo and noticed something on the walls. His eyes widened. "That can't be what I'm thinking."
"Yes Haruhiko. Luxtouch tiles. The most expensive décor for walls and floors in the world. You tell me a group of small criminals or psychopath can afford that? We're dealing with someone with wealth and power here."
Haruhiko stood there speechlessly. This was indeed bigger than he had anticipated.
His father was extremely stressed, he cursed under his breath before resuming to sitting back down on his chair. "Now if you excuse us, Tadao and I have some discussion of our own to do."
"Fine you discuss about your safety while in the meantime, get Tadao to give you a lift to your meeting. I'm going over to Akihiko."
His father shot a glare at Haruhiko. " Don't you two dare go back down there," he ordered.
"Who said we're going back to that dreadful place. I'm just visiting him," Haruhiko replied back in a discontented tone. Such a condescending jerk he thought to himself.
Despite him telling his father that he wouldn't actually return to the red light city, this was in fact a lie. Haruhiko would need to find a way to sneak back into the city without his father knowing.
" Remember I have eyes and ears everywhere. So behave. You can leave my office now."
"Oh I'll behave," he gritted. Haruhiko turned and grabbed the brunette's right arm. " Let's go Jiro."
"Where are we going?" the brunette asked.
" Out!" he replied loudly.
"Oh okay."
"Oh by the way Haruhiko sir,". Tadao called out to the pair. " I'd be careful handling that kid. He bites,". Tadao raised up his left hand to display the white bandages wrapped around his palm.
" He only bites idiots that don't know how to handle him!" Haruhiko replied as he stormed out of the office with Jiro.
The pair headed out of the office and downstairs to the garage. Haruhiko unlocked his black luxury car and opened the front passenger door for Jiro to enter. He then paced around the car and entered the driver's seat. Finally they headed out onto the road and to Akihiko's apartment.
Haruhiko pulled out his cell phone while driving. Not a very safe thing to do but he didn't care. Searching for his brother's phone contact they exchanged for the first time from last night, he scrolled down until he found Akihiko's number. He pressed call and held it to his ear whilst driving with his left hand. Jiro gazed out to view the beautiful sunny morning. He was free from the brothel but he wasn't completely free. But being partially free was enough for Jiro. Just as long as he could walk around, eat something nice and see the sun without being trapped underground. He just hoped Haruhiko was the type of man he hoped him to be and not some sadistic bastard.
Akihiko answered his phone.
[What is it? This better be good."]
"Akihiko! I'm coming over. This is urgent. It's about Misaki."
[What?! Did you receive something about Misaki too?!"]
"Yes father received some graphical images of Misaki's body. But according to the sender, it claims that Misaki is still alive but he's being held captive. What do you mean by I received something about Misaki as well?"
[Fuck this is bad! Misaki's older brother Takahiro also received something relating to confronting images of Misaki. He's coming over. He wants me to call the detective. Why the hell is happening? Wait did you say father received the images?!"]
"Yes he did. I'll tell you the full story when we get there. Akihiko don't call the detective. It's a waste of time. This is bigger than we thought, even father is scared to investigate. I'll tell you everything when I get there. There's too much to talk about right now,". The was a pause at the other end. "Akihiko?"
[Yeah I hear you. Just get your ass here."]
The line ended abruptly.
[~¥~]
Akihiko threw his phone on the floor. "Arghhh!" he shouted in frustration, anger and pain. This is too sudden. Akihiko sobbed silently over the thoughts of his lover harmed. Was it because of the search? Did the perpetrator figure out he was looking for Misaki? The only person who knew this was Jiro. Only Jiro. It had to be that kid Akihiko thought. He scrunched his fists. When Haruhiko gets here, they're going straight back down to the underground red light city regardless of what his father had told them. He needed to find out if anyone had approached or questioned the brunette.
The silver haired moved out from under his blanket and into the bathroom where he turned on the tap to wash his tear stained face. Holding both hands under the tap to catch the water he splashed and patted it all over his face. He stood there silently contemplating with his face staring down at the sink while his hands supported his leaning body.
So Takahiro and the Usami family have received disturbing images of Misaki through mail. So does that mean he would receive them too? Now driven by curiosity, Akihiko paced out of bathroom and headed down quickly towards the front door. He opened it and was shocked to find that there was indeed a mail parcel outside his front door that wasn't there when he got back. A surge of fear swept through him as he stared down at the suspicious mail. Was this the confronting images his family and best friend had received?
The silver haired bent down to pick up the mail off from the floor. He turned back inside his apartment with the mail in his hand and closed the door. It was time to find out what all the panic was about. He read over the writings on the brown mail.
'To Usami Akihiko' it wrote on the front. The person who sent this must of known who he was. Flipping over to the back, Akihiko was affronted by the perpetrator's claim to be Misaki. He ripped open the sides of the brown mail and pulled out a pink card. Staring at the pink card in his right hand, he blinked a couple of times in confusion. His confusion soon faded when he realized the decorative design of the card was only used to deceive him.
Using his left hand he lifted open the card to reveal the images of Misaki on the left. It was true, Misaki was harmed and beyond his imagination as well. There was so much blood on his back. Akihiko could see the lacerated wounds on the brunette's back. He felt sick to the gut viewing these photos. He stood there, his teary violet eyes narrowed as he glanced down at his wounded lover. His poor Misaki. Such excruciating pain he had to endure. Akihiko sniffled lightly as sorrowful pain took control of him. He lightly caressed the photo with his left thumb on the photo which displayed Misaki's beaten face. It took him a few minutes to take this all in before moving on to read the red font notes on the right.
'Hello Akihiko,
How are you coping without the presence of your lover? Your better off moving on. Misaki is mine now. Mine forever. I bought him. He's my property and I'll do whatever I want with his delicate body. By the way don't be alarmed by the sight of the magnificent crimson red liquid on his back and face. Each blood lost is a sign of my nurturing and caring ways. Don't worry I'll care for his needs. Pets like him are easy to look after, just lock them in a cage, feed them scraps and play with them when your bored. I reassure you that Misaki will never miss you. While I have him I'll make sure I will deprive him of his needs and of himself.
From the rightful owner of Misaki.'
His despair soon transitioned into heated rage after reading the note. He scrunched the card tightly while he breathed in heavily. His blood boiled. Someone dared to hurt his lover. His only one and only lover.
"Whoever your are, I will find you and I will kill you. You won't get away for hurting Misaki you fucking piece of shit. Misaki is not your property," he disgruntled with an enraged expression. He chucked the card on the floor with all his strength.
Akihiko was now fueled with the desire to seek vengeance against who did this. He cursed out loudly as he stomped around his lounge room in circles. He threw punches at cushions and even knocked over the furniture to vent out his anger. His Misaki was sold. His brother was right. Misaki suffered the same fate as the other victims.
"MISAKI!" he yelled out his lovers name. He slumped down onto his knees and sobbed uncontrollably while gasping in intervals for air. "Misaki. I love you," he cried with his hands covering his face.
[~¥~]
Jiro's stomach grumbled as they drove silently on the highway. The brunette blushed in embarrassment. He placed his arm around his stomach to silence the grumbles.
"Are you hungry?"
"Umm, a bit. I haven't eaten proper food since I was kidnapped."
" I see."
Haruhiko continued to drive. His facial expression was always the same, either neutral or serious.
Is he going to ask me if I want anything to eat? What an insolent man, I'm starving here, the brunette complained internally.
The car exited the highway and into a suburb. Haruhiko pulled over in front of a homemade bakery store.
He turned his head to the brunette. "What do you want to eat?"
"Umm I can't make up my mind right now but anything with chicken is nice I guess," he replied nervously.
The was a moment of awkward silence between the two before Haruhiko spoke.
"I'll be right back. Don't run off or my father will be disappointed."
"I promise I won't. Your father made it clear to me this morning about running away."
"Then you'll understand that it is now my duty to babysit you."
Haruhiko left the car and moved towards the shop before turning around and pressing a button on his keys to lock the brunette inside. Jiro crossed his arms and pouted when he heard the car lock.
"Can't believe he doesn't trust me," the brunette mumbled.
The man entered the shop. He pushed open the glass door and into the bakery. The bakery was full of patisseries, bread and sweets decorated with various patterns including a hello kitty themed baked goodies. Haruhiko didn't have time to find a proper place to feed the brunette therefore a quick visit to a local bakery will do. Unable to decide what to buy he approached the counter.
"Helloo! How may I help you today sir?" came the voice of a young woman in her twenties. Her hair was dyed pink and she wore large blue contact lenses with thick dark eyeliner, which gave Haruhiko a mini heart attack after seeing her failed raccoon eyes.
"Uh,". He was distracted by her thick rainbow false eyelashes. "Um I want something with chicken in it."
She lifted the silver tongs with one hand in the air while her other hand was rested on her waist. "We have a lot a pastry which have chicken in it sir. Will it be chicken pie, chicken sandwich, chicken quiche or chicken puffs?"
Haruhiko didn't have time to pick the one Jiro will like. Feeling frustrated he decided to order one of each. "One of each will do."
"Okay sir. Would you like a drink with that?"
"Water will be fine."
Jiro fidgeted around the interior of the black luxury car. This was his first time being in a vehicle like this. He admired the texture. He toyed around the with the cup holders and openable compartments but stopped when he saw Haruhiko exiting the bakery. He was astonished when he saw the older man carrying with both of his hands bags of baked goods. Haruhiko struggled to remove the keys from his trousers pocket.
Once unlocked, Haruhiko opened Jiro's side door and dumped the bags of food on his lap. "There, that should feed you for the day."
Jiro stared in shocking surprise at the pile of food on his lap. He didn't have to purchase nearly the whole bakery. Haruhiko closed the door and went around to the driver's seat. He turned on the car and reversed. In the meantime Jiro shuffled through the plastic bags, looking through all the baked goodies. His mouth watered at the sight of warm pastry. Turning to Haruhiko, he smiled gently.
" Thank you Haruhiko."
"No need to thank me. Just eat."
As cold as Haruhiko may seem, he's actually not that bad the brunette thought as he took a bite out of the chicken puffs.
The two were now on their way to Akihiko's apartment after the short delay to feed the hungry brunette.
[~¥~]
His breathing and sobbing eased down overtime. Slowly coming back to his sense, he rose from his spot and glanced around the messy and disorganized apartment. His brother and best friend were coming over. He didn't have the motivation nor the energy to properly clean the apartment. That was Misaki's job but he wasn't here anymore to get that done. Using the memories of Misaki cleaning and berating his mess, Akihiko used this as his motivation to get him moving. Maybe it might help him forget about that atrocious note he read.
Making his way to the kitchen, he picked up the dirty dish. Now what was he supposed to do with it? Upset and unmotivated he shoved all the dirty dishes into the dishwasher. Despite it being in the dishwasher, he didn't know how to operate it since Misaki never used it or taught him. So he just left the dirty dishes and cups in there hoping no one would open it. Glancing around the lounge room from the kitchen sink, he groaned in discontent.
"Nghhhhh fuck this! Why the hell is everyone coming over?!" he grumbled loudly.
Cursing out loud and complaining non stop, he grabbed everything off the floor and table and threw them into a spare room on the first floor. Books, clothes, cigarette butts, beer cans, bears and anything out of the ordinary were thrown into the room. Loud sounds of objects cracking and breaking were heard but he didn't care. He was venting out his temper through cleaning. Furniture were forcefully kicked and pulled into their original position.
Finally he was done, the apartment was back to normal. His best friend was coming over. Should he also show Takahiro what was sent to him. This was a going to be difficult. If Takahiro were to read the letter sent to him then his relationship with Misaki would be uncovered. He knew he had to reveal his relationship to his best friend one day. Why not now? If he loves Misaki, then he should stand up for whom he loves and confront Takahiro. It was now or never.
[~¥~]
Twenty minutes later.
Takahiro pulled his car over to the side of the road. The Takahashi family had arrived outside the Usami apartment.
"We're here. Lets go Manami."
The three exited their vehicle and headed towards Usagi's apartment. They stood outside the front door and knocked. Akihiko opened the door in response to the knocking to let them in.
"Usagi! Is the detective here?!" he asked frantically.
"Unagi," Mahiro cooed in his mother's arm when he saw Akihiko open the door.
"Takahiro. I'm sorry the detective isn't here. I'll tell you soon why. But first I need to have a word with you about Misaki," Akihiko spoke calmly with a soft tone.
"Usagi what do you mean he's not here? Is he late? I have evidence of the letter here. Misaki is in danger!" Takahiro cried with a worried expression as he followed Akihiko towards the sofa.
He held the card to Akihiko when he sat down on the adjacent sofa. Manami sat next to her husband with Mahiro in her lap.
"This is the card I received in the mail Usagi. We need to give this to the detective. He can help find fingerprints or clues to Misaki's kidnappers."
Akihiko sighed and held his palm up to decline the card. "Takahiro I know your extremely worried about Misaki. But your not the only one who has to feel the brunt of this. We'll talk about the card later but first I need to get something very important across to you."
Takahiro withdrew the card from the air. "What is more important than Misaki, Usagi?"
"Takahiro I don't how your going to take this, but as your best friend for more than ten years I'm going to tell you something I should off told you long time ago,". Akihiko looked directly into Takahiro's eyes. He waited until his friend was ready to listen. "Misaki and I are lovers."
"WHATTT!?" both Takahiro and his wife shouted in unison.
" Misaki and my best friend!? How is this possible? How long have you being doing this behind my back with my younger brother. I trusted you to look after him. Not sleep with him!"
"Takahiro you have every right to be angry with me. But I'm going to come out clean with you to settle this. I know your worried and shock just as I am about Misaki but please listen to what I have to say."
" You better tell me everything. I can't believe this. I feel like punching you right now," Takahiro gritted. He was appalled at his best friend. This was not his usual calm personality, however under stressful conditions Takahiro snapped.
Akihiko took a deep breath. It was time to confess everything all at once.
"Takahiro. Me and Misaki have been together since he moved in. I love him and he loves me. This relationship was not forced I can assure you that. The reason we haven't told you yet is because we feared that you will separate us. I'm sorry I wished I could of told you this earlier. So please take your time to take this all in. I'm going out for a smoke. I'll be right back. I hope you will understand by then."
Akihiko stood from his spot and left the lounge room to smoke outside on his balcony. He lit his cigarette and inhaled the smoke into his lungs. He retained the smoke in his lungs, hoping that the chemicals would be absorbed into his bloodstream more rapidly to relieve his stress. He needed to give time and space for his best friend to cope with the confession.
Takahiro remained speechless. He felt utterly shock and disbelieved at the confession. His wife rubbed his back again. He came here hoping to bring evidence to the detective but instead he gets informed that his brother was in a relationship with his best friend. Akihiko of all people as well. A man who couldn't barely even look after himself.
" Takahiro please don't be too upset about this. At least Misaki was happy. That's all that matters."
(SFX Door Knocking)
Manami and Takahiro turned their heads to the front door.
"Is it the detective?" his wife asked curiously.
"I don't know. But I'll see. Stay here Manami."
Takahiro stood from his seat and moved towards the door to find out who was knocking. He was hoping for it to be the detective but when he carefully opened the door, he was greeted by an unexpected pair.
"Umm who are you?" Takahiro asked curiously before he spotted a brunette munching on a baked pastry behind the brown haired man. "MISAKI!?".
The brunette stopped munching when he heard someone mistaken him for Misaki. Shit not again he thought. He hid behind Haruhiko for protection with his head down like usually. He gripped tightly on the bags of pastry with his other hand.
"Misaki is that you?! Who are you? Move aside. That's my brother!" Takahiro yelled causing Manami to rise from her seat to glance over to the door.
Haruhiko blocked the man's path before he could reach for the shy brunette. "He's not Misaki. You must be Takahiro. Misaki's older brother."
"How do you know my name? If he isn't Misaki then why hide him?!"
"I'm not Misaki I'm Jiro!" the brunette called out from behind Haruhiko.
Haruhiko stood aside to reveal the brunette. "See he isn't Misaki. They look alike but they're different."
Jiro pouted at Takahiro. He didn't want the man to embrace him like Akihiko did back down at the brothel. He hated strangers touching him. Takahiro eyes widened in perplexity. Their resemblance, it's so close except for the voice and the attitude.
" Now if you excuse us Takahiro. I'm looking for Akihiko, we have important things to discuss."
"Who are you?"
" My name is Usami Haruhiko and this is Jiro, something. He's still yet to tell me his last name. It's complicated. Now if you could let us in please. We don't have all day to stand out here."
" You're a Usami?"
"Yes I am. I'm related to the idiot that lives here."
Takahiro paused for a moment. "Fine but he's outside on the balcony smoking."
The two entered the apartment. Takahiro closed the door slowly as he watched them enter. Particularly the brunette. Takahiro noticed the boy had a bruised nose. What happened to him and why was he wearing a night silk robe during the day? He also recalled Akihiko having a purple nose as well this morning. What on earth is going on? Manami was thinking the same but she kept quiet.
The pair glanced around the spacious apartment as they entered. This was their first time here. Jiro was marveled at how wealthy the Usami brothers were. After all he was just an ordinary university student trying to study to make a living in the future.
"Misagi!" Mahiro called out to his favorite uncle. He tried to unravel himself from his mother's arm. The pair turned around to see a young toddler grinning at them.
"No Mahiro that is not Misaki. He's Jiro I think that's what I heard," his mother explained.
"Yes sorry I'm not Misaki little one. My name is Jiro. Nice to meet you," the brunette waved nervously to the little boy.
"Misagi!" the toddler pointed. This time he tried to leap out of his mother's lap.
"Woouu Mahiro!" Manami held tightly onto her son before he could hurt himself.
The brunette chuckled nervously at the toddler's persistency. Takahiro eyes remained fixed on the brunette. Seeing Jiro reminded him of Misaki which brought back the cheerful memories they spent together. Haruhiko also paused for a moment to watch the toddler's interaction with Jiro.
Akihiko blew a puff of smoke into the air which dissipated rapidly. He moved his violet iris to the corner of his eyes to quickly glance over at Takahiro through the glass windows. He moved his eye back after he saw Takahiro but turned around suddenly when he realized Haruhiko was in the apartment, and with Jiro as well! What was the brunette doing here? Did Haruhiko purchase him from the owner? This puzzled Akihiko but the brunette reminded him of something important. That's right, he needed to question that kid about anyone approaching him.
The silver haired quickly extinguished his cigarette and stormed back inside his apartment. He slid open the glass door. "Jiro!" he roared.
"Ah! What did I do!? Please don't hit me!". The brunette jumped up in fear from the sudden outburst. He quickly scrambled behind Haruhiko. Obviously he was still traumatized from Akihiko punching him with such ruthless strength.
Everybody turned to face Akihiko. The room fell into silence. Takahiro crossed his arms in disappointment after the brunette's protest. What did he mean by don't hit me? Was Usagi abusing this kid!?
" I need to talk to you!" Akihiko demanded. He stomped towards the pair.
Haruhiko extended his arm out to prevent Akihiko from approaching further. "Akihiko, calm down!"
"What's he doing here? I need to know if anyone questioned him last night."
"No one approached him besides the Usami guards. They brought him back right after we left the brothel by orders of our father to prevent information leakage," Haruhiko explained with his usual serious expression.
"What!? Father purchased him!"
"Yes and he was placed him under my care."
Akihiko motioned his head sideways to view the brunette hiding behind his brother. His frightened puppy like eyes peering back at him as he clutched onto Haruhiko's jacket. Jiro nodded shyly in agreement with Haruhiko's explanation.
"BROTHEL!?" Takahiro exclaimed out loudly. Everybody in the room turned their attention to him. This wasn't the gentle naïve Takahiro they knew. " What the hell is going on here!? What's with this brothel purchasing, don't hit me and information leakage nonsense? You better tell me now Usagi. I trusted you!"
Akihiko sighed in defeat. "Okay I'll tell you everything Takahiro but please what we tell can be quite shocking. Please keep this conversation confidential between all of us. Let's just all have a seat first, we have a lot to cover."
Everybody took a seat on the sofas. Takahiro sat displeasingly by his wife's side with his arms still crossed. Haruhiko and Jiro sat on the opposite sofa from the Takahashi family while Akihiko was sat on the sofa between them. Jiro placed the plastic bags of food by his foot. Manami gently smiled at the brunette while Takahiro shot glaring daggers at Akihiko.
Akihiko took a deep breath. " Takahiro there's something you should know. This may upset you but Misaki was a victim of trafficking."
"What!? How do you know this?" he asked frantically. Manami placed her palm on his arm to help him ease down his tone.
"I'll get to there soon,". He turned to face his brother. "Haruhiko your theory with Misaki being involved in trafficking was correct,". Akihiko pulled out the folded pink card from his pocket. "This was the letter I received this morning outside my apartment. Was yours similar?"
He handed the card to Haruhiko, who then proceeded to read the note. Jiro managed to peek at the images of Misaki with the corner of his eyes. He cringed upon seeing it and immediately shifted his eyes elsewhere.
"You received the same mail as well!?" Takahiro questioned.
"Takahiro can I please see the card you received?" Akihiko requested as he extended his hand out.
"Fine" he grunted. Takahiro leaned forward and handed the card to Akihiko. The silver haired opened the card. His heart sunk as he glanced over the same photos. The message sent to the Takahashi family was different to his. Clearly the owner must of thought through what he was going to write to each person.
"These pictures are the same but the messages are different,". He closed the card and gave it back to Takahiro. "Haruhiko you said father also received this mail. Do you have it with you?"
Haruhiko closed the card. "No he's holding onto it. It was a direct threat to father, us and the corporation. The pictures were the same as your card. If Misaki was definitely sold then we must be dealing with someone with wealth and power."
"How come the Usamis also received the cards?" Takahiro asked Haruhiko.
"We don't know but somehow someone knew Akihiko was in a relationship with Misaki. If the owner of Misaki had anything against the Usamis then he would be physically harmed in order to taunt us. Unless the owner was just doing this for his or her own satisfaction to bring mischief to whom Misaki holds dearly. But we still don't know or understand their motive yet."
Takahiro's eyes were becoming slightly watery. " Was he really was sold? Can I see the letter that was sent to Usagi please."
Haruhiko glanced over to his brother for approval. Akihiko nodded allowing Haruhiko to hand over the card to Takahiro. Reaching out for card, he proceeded to open and read. Manami covered her son's eyes with her hand. Takahiro hands were trembling as he read along the lines. The words written to Usagi were more cruel and sickening than the one Takahiro had received. Rather than crying over the matter, a surge of resentment begun to build up within the man. Misaki was not a property and he will not be deprived of anything. No one should ever dare lay their hands on his adorable younger brother. But little did he know that Armel was just getting started with his sadistic tortures.
" We…,".Takahiro swallowed his dry throat and sighed heavily. "We need to find out who did this. We need to save Misaki from this bastard."
"And that's what we're trying to do. Takahiro. Last night me and Haruhiko went to an illegal underground red light city to search for Misaki."
"You went to an illegal city!? You mean the rumored hidden city that everybody thought was a myth? Are you implying that you are criminals!?"
"No we're not criminals!" Akihiko protested.
"Takahiro. Yes the city exists. Yes we went down but no we're not criminals," Haruhiko informed him.
"Then how did you managed to get into the city?"
"That city is not only for wealthy criminals but also for other wealthy citizens such as diplomats, businessman, politicians and even actors. The Usamis are powerful figures and our influence allows us to enter the city without hesitation," Haruhiko continued.
" So what did you find down there? Did you manage to find any clues in relation to Misaki?"
" We were only there for a couple of hours until our father had interrupted our investigation, fearing that we might associate with someone dangerous. Although the only person we associated with was that kid over there," Akihiko looked towards the brunette.
Everybody turned to Jiro who had drifted off to sleep sometime during the conversation. The poor boy was exhausted since he didn't receive any sleep at all last night. He had been transported, interrogated and lectured by Fuyuhiko on the consequences of escaping. His sleepy head laid resting on the side of the couch arm.
"Jiro?". Haruhiko shook the brunette lightly on his shoulders, hoping to wake him up. The brunette mumbled indistinctly but resumed back to sleep. Haruhiko then decided to let the boy rest.
"Back to where we were. We searched around a brothel and we requested for all the brunettes. That's how we stumbled on Jiro and we questioned him on how he got kidnapped. The only lead we got was someone named Aku. Takahiro I know your upset about our relationship but I'm willing to search for Misaki even if it means associating with Japan's most dangerous criminals. I love Misaki and will do whatever it takes to get him back. And even if you disapprove our relationship. I'm not going to give up in searching for him until he is safe. Misaki's safety is my top priority."
Akihiko's dedication touched Takahiro's heart. He was willing to search for his brother even if it would cost him his life. A sense of guilt swept through Takahiro and he felt bad for yelling at the man. The room feel into silence again.
All eyes were on Takahiro.
The man sighed heavily, his body language remained still for a moment, until he lifted his head up to Akihiko.
Slowly his anxious expression faded.
Tension was building up within Akihiko. What was Takahiro thinking?
Finally, a warm gentle smile appeared across his face.
"For anyone who is willing to risk their life to save my brother, I approve your relationship. You have my blessing."
Akihiko eyes widened in joyous content. He smiled gently. "Thank you Takahiro. I appreciate that you have accepted our relationship. I promise I'll find Misaki and bring him back home safely."
"Thank you Usagi. I'm grateful to have you as my friend and as Misaki's lover."
The two rose from their spot and gave each other a warm friendship hug. They patted each other on the back as they hugged. Manami sat in awe at the sight of brotherly approval, except for Haruhiko. He wanted to object to end this horrendous embracing and was about to fake cough to disrupt the two. But then Jiro's back leg suddenly accidentally kicked him like he knew what the man was thinking.
Jiro's body moved on it's own accord during his sleep. His leg lifted up as he curled up onto the couch. The silk robe slid down forward as his legs moved up, exposing his bare hairless soft thighs as his leg came in contact with Haruhiko. Few more inches of movement and his underwear would be revealed. Haruhiko eyes widened, his heart pounded. His innocent eyes! Luckily Manami was still concentrating on her husband and Akihiko that she didn't witness this. Haruhiko quickly tugged and adjusted the brunette's robe back to cover his thighs.
"Thank you," Akihiko said again before the two resumed back to sitting down. They smiled in content. Now it was time to return back to the main conversation.
"By the way Akihiko why is your nose bruised and the same with Jiro?"
"Fufufu," came a muffled laugh from Haruhiko which was rare for a character like him. The topic brought back the memories Haruhiko thought was pretty hilarious when he recalled his brother's idiotic mistaken identity. Sure it was hell during that time but overall it was still actually comical when he thought about it.
Akihiko's face flushed bright red upon the question. How was he going to explain this to Takahiro without making him sound stupid. The Takahashi's were confused at the moment with the reactions they were seeing.
"Ahem," Akihiko cleared his throat. "Well this may sound ridiculous but the first time we met Jiro, I thought he was Misaki. Apparently I was wrong and I provoked him when I hugged him. So the kid decided to bite me and hit me across the face."
The muffled laughter from Haruhiko grew louder as he explained. Akihiko gritted his teeth. "Shut up will you!" he barked to his brother.
"As you can see that moron over there and I don't get along quite well. We got into a argument, which I don't not feel like discussing in detail. Things got a little out of hand and the fight became physical. Meanwhile this kid decides to jump in the middle of the fight while my fist that was currently aiming for Haruhiko accidentally hits his face. Takahiro it was merely an accident. I hope this doesn't give the impression of me as an abusive man. It was simply an accident and a mistake."
"Well if the kid bit you and smacked you across the face then I'd say you two are even. Don't worry Usagi I trust you that you won't harm Misaki in anyway. Why did the argument between you two lead to a physical brawl?"
Akihiko saw this as a chance to shoot back at his brother. "Well Takahiro, we were arguing about something personal. Too bad he's the one getting it out of his system. Now he has to babysit Jiro,". Akihiko turned his head to face his brother. A cheeky smirk grew across his face. "Admit it," he grinned.
Haruhiko shot a icy cold glare at his brother. He knew what Akihiko meant. That sly bastard. Meanwhile Takahiro was left clueless on what Akihiko meant. But since it was for personal reasons he didn't want to question this matter further.
"Now aside from this. Let's get back to Misaki. Since Aku is our only lead that's our start. Also Jiro might recall the kidnapper's voice so that's something valuable. Haruhiko did you manage to question father about him?"
"No. The old man was too paranoid about his safety. He has Tadao setting up the parameters. I'll try asking him when I get back. Although our best shot would be to scout further down the underground city. But father is also barring us from returning back there. However that doesn't mean he has all the routes to the city covered. Give me time and I'll see what I can do. Leave father to me."
"But couldn't we just let the private detective investigate Aku and the cards?" Takahiro queried.
"Takahiro I wish we could leave this all to the police and the private detective but this is a crime that is deep. We're talking about criminals who can silence the police. There is corruption in this case. Bringing in a private detective would only result in a dead detective. In the world of wealth, there is hierarchy and lucky for the Usamis we're one of the top. There are criminals who dare not want to risk facing the wrath of our father. Although there are also some who aren't afraid of the hierarchy system. Consulting a private detective would be our last resort if we can't figure out anything."
"Haruhiko's right. This will take time. We mustn't let our emotions run us down. The private detective I hired has currently found nothing. We're never going to get anywhere waiting for clues to fall into our hands. Haruhiko I want to talk to father as well. Having us both there might convince him to talk."
Haruhiko rubbed the sides his temple and sighed. "I'll see. It might also depend on his mood. But lets give it a try. If he doesn't cooperate, we'll find other ways to gather intel."
"When is he available? Aren't you meant to be giving him a lift to his meeting?"
"I was but I was furious about how he refused to have Tadao investigate for Misaki. So I told him to get Tadao to give him a lift instead and stormed out with Jiro. But maybe we can confront him tonight, over dinner. He doesn't have anything scheduled for tonight."
"Doesn't sound too bad. Lets do it. Takahiro you can stay here if you feel unsafe. We still don't know who is behind this. Best to remain here until we know its safe and feel free to make yourself at home."
"Umm okay, thank you so much Usagi. Is it just going to be us staying here tonight?"
"Yes you can have the spare bedroom upstairs reserved for guests. Tonight me and Haruhiko are going to visit our father. I promise I'll find Misaki."
"Thank you so much Usagi! I don't know how to thank you."
"A blessing from you is all that I'll ever ask for Takahiro."
A warm smile appeared across Takahiro's face. He was glad to have such a good and caring friend.
Haruhiko brought out his cellphone. "I'm going to message Tanaka now. Are you sure you want to do this Akihiko?"
"I'm sure. Inform him now."
[~¥~]
Meanwhile back at the Usami Mansion.
Security cameras were wired and screwed onto the corners of each room. Motion sensors were placed in doorways and windows to detect unwanted trespassing. Not to mention the patrol guards that scurried through the dense forest with canine. With the presence of heavy security, the Usami mansion exhibited an army like encampment. Fuyuhiko even had the Usami guards to camp outside in the forest and the loyal guards were doubled inside the mansion.
A specialized forensic team was hired and spent the past several hours trying to find any evidence hidden on the card. They examined the paper quality, analyzed for fingerprints and even had a specialized analyst examining the photos. From what they gathered they found no trace of evidence or DNA left behind on the card besides Fuyuhiko and Haruhiko's fingerprints. The analyst zoomed in all the photos hoping to spot anything that may give them a clue. This may take a while but it was their job to investigate thoroughly.
Fuyuhiko and Tadao sauntered through the mansion halls together.
"There will sensors here at this window and I'll have my men plant hidden cameras in these ornaments," the guard explained as he pointed around the room.
"I see, I would also like some cameras…"
"Excuse me master sorry to disturb you. It's about your sons," Tanaka entered the room with a cell phone in his hand.
"Give us a moment will you please Tadao, thank you."
"Yes sir I understand."
"Go on Tanaka."
"Haruhiko texted me just now. Both of your sons would like to request to have dinner here tonight with you. He's awaiting your response."
Fuyuhiko moved towards the large glass window to gaze outside. "Hm. Little boys looking to cause trouble again. Tell them yes at 6 o'clock. This will finally be a good time to have a proper conversation as a family together."
A.N Wow that was a long conversation. I would add more but I didn't want to bore you guys.
Please review for motivation and ideas. Don't forget to check my profile for live updates.
Love OWLSIES