Whoot! Here comes another chapter.
DISCLAIMER: I do not own Vampire Knight (;_;) because if I did there would be a whole lotta man smexin' goin' on.
Warnings: Man lovin'
Vipers beneath the Rose Bed
Aidou's eyes opened and he yawned, frowning at the clock on the night table: 6:00am. This was their routine. He awakened at 6:00am to rouse Zero, who had to be at the Association by seven. After he saw Zero off he would go back to bed to sleep until noon, because he had classes from one to five in the evening. On days he didn't have classes he would sleep until two 'o' clock and go spend evening lunch with Zero at Umami restaurant (his mate was a deputy chef at the restaurant and had lunch near the end of his shift).
He turned over, nuzzling the man spooning him. Gently he pushed Zero onto his back and straddled him. He sighed happily, taking time to study the serene beauty of his sleeping mate. "Zero." He kissed his nose, smiling when Zero protested. He nipped Zero's earlobe. It was so easy to take advantage of Zero in the mornings. "Wake up darling."
Zero growled grumpily. He did not want to wake up yet. He'd had a grueling hunt last night and he didn't want to go to work just to do the mountain of paper that was waiting for him on his desk. He wanted to stay in his warm cocoon with Aidou.
"Wake up," he sang sweetly. He swept his tongue over Zero's full upper lip and nipped him just enough to break the skin, enjoying the taste of his love's blood. "Love wake up."
Zero moaned unwillingly, but opened his eyes. Luminous azure eyes were the first thing occupying his vision, and as usual the air was stolen from his lungs. "Hey." He gave a warm gaze.
Aidou smiled adoringly. "Good day."
Zero stroked Aidou's back, closing his eyes when Aidou lay atop him, their skin embracing. Aidou should come with a warning label, he mused. Model QT Requirements: Lots of love, attention and TLC, abundant skin-to-skin contact, supervision in the kitchen, loads of patience, and being fucked on a regular basis.
He chuckled at his own inner joke. "Sleep well Doctor Aidou?" His genius mate had turned in his research paper two weeks ago in order to obtain his doctorate in the branch of Physics and was currently under consideration.
Aidou smiled, happy for the confidence had in him. "Yes, but only because I know that you are okay."
They dropped a series of tender pecks on each other's mouth, a purr escaping Aidou when Zero let him feel his morning erection. "You have work," Aidou reminded his mate. He rolled off Zero and climbed out of bed, before Zero could get a solid grip on him. "Now, go take a shower." He pulled on his boxer-briefs and departed the room.
Zero sighed and walked into the bathroom to take a shower. Moments later he walked into the kitchen of their town house (Aidou insisted on moving out of the apartment). He accepted the steaming cup of coffee Aidou proffered. Sitting down, he blew the steam off the top before taking a sip.
"Mmm."
They conversed idly while Zero finished off his meal.
"Are you coming to the soiree tomorrow night?" Aidou asked. His father was throwing a soiree and his presence was requested. He wanted Zero to be with him. "I-I know I'm asking a lot, but I need you there."
Zero swallowed a mouthful of rice. "I know."
"So you're coming?"
Zero nodded. He hated accompanying Aidou to his father's soirees. He had to pose as Kaname's bodyguard the entire time and he had to deal with watching Aidou schmooze with all of those other nobles. Every time his father laid a hand on Aidou's shoulder or leered at him, Zero wanted to rip his eyes out of his head. He hated being a spectator while Aidou braved the lions' den. "If that's what you want, I'll be there."
Aidou beamed at his mate and stood from his chair, sitting in Zero's lap. He kissed him deeply. "I'll talk to Kaname-sama."
After breakfast Aidou stood over the sink washing dishes. His and Zero's relationship was taboo in vampire society, which meant having servants was out of the question. At first he'd whined almost incessantly but now he didn't mind because he actually enjoyed learning to do household chores (only when it pleased Zero).
Zero stared at Aidou's half-naked form, eyes trailing to his divine ass. Damn, he was horny. He stood and went after his prey.
Aidou smiled when Zero wrapped his arms around him, kissing his neck.
"You know what I want," he started and pressed a kiss to Aidou's cheek.
Aidou clicked his tongue. "You have work, my love." A gasp escaped him when Zero teased his neck and reached down to squeeze his manhood. He groaned when Zero ground his erection against his bottom. A drawn out moan issued from him. "Zero." His breath hitched when his mate reached beneath his boxers to stroke his arousal.
"Zero."
"Yes?" He asked breath hot against his ear.
Aidou shuddered, the heat pooling in his loins smoldering fiercely. "I want…"
Zero smiled wickedly. "What do you want?" He whispered huskily, continuing to torture one of his rose pink nipples. Satisfaction flowed through him when the tiny vampire in his arms trembled.
Aidou sighed. "I want it." He pushed against Zero's hips, grinding against him, moaning when Zero growled.
Zero smirked naughtily, removing his hand from Aidou's boxers. "But I have work Hana."
Aidou caught his hand, looking over his shoulder. "Zero if you leave and don't fuck me right now I'll…"
Zero grinned triumphantly. "You'll what?" He clamped down on Aidou's ear.
Aidou's eyes rolled, intense little shivers zapping through his body. "Just…"
Zero smirked, a wave of heat licking over his skin. He slipped Aidou's boxers to his ankles, while unzipping his own pants. "Where's the lube?"
Aidou swallowed a moan was hi mate stroked him languidly. Right now, he didn't care if Zero took him dry, but his dear mate insisted on prepping him. "Mmm. Don't care." He commanded, gyrating his naked bottom against Zero's unclothed arousal.
Zero gave a self-satisfied smirk. He loved seeing his usually well-spoken mate turn into a wanton monosyllabic mess.
"Ahhh!" Aidou stood, hands on the counter, back arched, screaming as Zero hammered into his burning entrance. More. He needed more. "H-ha," he panted between groans.
Zero leaned over, rolling his hips forward.
"Mmahhh," Aidou mewled, near crazed with pleasure.
"You know I like it when you speak French."
Aidou closed his eyes, trying to find that part of his mind that wasn't focused on the consuming carnal pleasure wracking his petite body. "Plus dur! Me baiser! Plus dur!" He shrieked.
Zero growled, increasing the strength of his strokes.
Aidou cried out, pleasure enfolding his senses and ripping through every nerve-ending. He screamed, grasping the edges of the counter for purchase as Zero pounded into him, slamming into his core.
Zero threw his head back, eyes rolling as Aidou's wet heat engulfed his member repeatedly, pleasure clouding his mind. He reached down, stroking Aidou's weeping cock, continuing their gallop toward paradise.
Aidou dropped his head, close to his limit. His stomach clenched. "Zero I'maaaahh!" He shrieked as he came, spilling his seed onto the cabinet doors.
Zero followed moments later shouting Aidou's name as he ejaculated. They stood still for moments, riding out their individual orgasms.
"Fuck," Aidou said when he managed to get his breathing under control.
Zero leaned over to kiss the nape of his neck, breathing deeply. He withdrew and used paper napkins to clean them both up.
Aidou bent over and pulled up his boxers, turning to preen his mate before kissing him softly. "Have a good day."
Zero's amethyst eyes sparkled lecherously. "I will now." He really did love quickies.
Aidou's cheeks tinted pink when Zero gave him that certain look that made him go all jittery inside. It still amazed him that Zero could melt him with a single glance after six years. A quick kiss and Zero was out the door.
Zero mounted his motorcycle, putting on his helmet when Aidou glared at him, gunned the engine, and zoomed down the street.
Aidou frowned when the newspaper hit him on the head. He glowered at the kid riding the red bicycle. Stupid paperboy.
"Morning fairy!" The boy called derisively.
Aidou frowned deeply, blue eyes narrowing. An ice patch formed on the newly snow-plowed street. He smiled satisfactorily when the boy yelped as he lost his traction and fell, closing the door.
Zero opened the door, inviting the pureblood in. The two walked to the sitting room and sat down. "How have you been?" He asked the handsome pureblood.
Kaname sat down gracefully. "I am well and you?"
Zero shrugged. "Great." Over the course of six years, he and Kaname had become comrades. Zero supposed that age and being on one's own changed one's perspective of people.
"You look quite dapper Zero-san."
Zero looked down at his navy blue suit and shrugged. "Thanks. Hana picked it out for me a few days ago." He leaned back in the wine-colored sofa and cast an once-over on the pureblood. "You don't look so bad yourself."
Kaname smoothed down his well-tailored mahogany suit. "Arigatou." He watched Zero with emotionless eyes. "You seem happy."
Zero nodded. "Yeah. Hana and I have our spats, but the little nerd makes me happy. What about you?" What was taking Aidou so freaking long to get ready?
Kaname heaved a sigh. "I am afraid I'm still single."
Zero's brow furrowed. "Why? Haven't found the right girl?"
Kaname lifted a slender brown eyebrow. "Zero I'm gay."
Zero looked at Kaname in surprise. "Oh. Really?"
A look of wistfulness passed over the pureblood's immaculate face. "Didn't you figure that out when we used to…" He cleared his throat.
"Oh. I thought you only did that because… You know what never mind."
Aidou entered the room, blushing softly when Zero gave him an appraising glance.
"Green looks good on you Hana."
The train ride to the estate was tense. Aidou remained quiet most of the ride, which left Zero to initiate conversation.
Aidou gripped Zero's hand when the limousine pulled up to the Aidou estate and latched onto his arm, rubbing his nose in his shoulder.
Zero pressed a soft kiss to mouth, allowing his assurance to wash through their bond. "I'll only be across the room the whole time usa-chan."
Kaname watched with expressionless eyes as the two mates silently drew strength from each other. He looked out at the window. "It's time to go in."
The doormen opened the door and Kaname climbed out first, followed by Aidou, then Zero.
Zero nearly cringed when he entered the ballroom full of nobles. Into the den of lions.
The nobles stood around dressed in their glittering eveningwear conversing quietly among themselves, wineglasses in hand.
Zero made sure to brush Aidou's consciousness with a dose of love when the small noble departed their company to go work the room. He sighed, following behind the pureblood from person to person, watching with disdain as the nobles sought to ingratiate themselves with the pureblood. Unease pricked through him. He felt eyes on him, tracking his move like a pride of lions eyeing a young gazelle.
He darted hi eyes from side-to-side, seeing the lustful glances directed at him. Inwardly he frowned. Of course, they would look at him with lust. He was a hunter turned vampire. A commodity.
Aidou was engaged in a stimulating conversation with Jiri Touya, who was also a model, when someone placed a hand on his shoulder.
"Hello Hanabusa-chan."
Aidou froze. He knew that voice. Hokkai Ichihara. Shit. He turned, giving a fake smile. "Ichihara-san. I didn't know you were back in the country."
The handsome brunette smiled. "You look well." He directed a lecherous grin at Aidou. "The years have indeed been kind to you."
Aidou smiled tightly. He had to get away from this guy before the twit turned into an octopus. He looked at Jiri, who seemed star struck. Ah, yes. Jiri was an art buff. "Jiri-san, this is Ichihara-san." He introduced the two formally. "Ichihara-san, Jiri-san is a big fan your work."
Hokkai raised an eyebrow, staring at the raven-haired vampire. "Is that so?"
Jiri nodded. "Yes. I especially like the work you did in China."
"Well, I'll leave you two to talk." He bowed and made his escape.
Throughout the night he winded through the room, holding short conversations, trying to avoid Hokkai. However, no matter where he traveled he could still feel those piercing gray eyes on him, boring holes in his back. No matter where in the room he went, Hokkai was always in his periphery vision. He scanned the sea of people, catching silver hair near the center of the room. He really needed his mate right now, but he dared not go to him. Seeking Zero out now would be like throwing gasoline on a fire, disastrous. He needed to get away from those searching eyes.
Excusing himself from a conversation, he headed for the double doors leading to the veranda. He shivered when he stepped into the biting cold air. Sighing, he rested on the marble parapet. God why did that stupid jerk have to be here tonight? It was bad enough he had to be in his father's company. Now, he had to deal with the bastard that painted his portrait, coerced him into allowing him to fuck him, and then called him a whore.
Concentrating, he reached for Zero's consciousness, searching for the strength that only his mate gave him. He smiled softly to himself, purring softly when Zero reciprocated. I love you Zero. His spine tingled when he felt his aura. Damnit.
"If I didn't know any better, I would say that you were avoiding me," Hokkai said a slight tease in his tone. He shut the double doors, pulling his coat closer to his body.
Aidou glowered at him. "Obviously I'm not succeeding."
The handsome noble chuckled, clicking his tongue disapprovingly. "Now is that any way to talk to your lover?"
Aidou laughed outright, causing white puffs of smoke in the frigid air. "I was never your lover. You coaxed me into posing naked, and then we fucked. It didn't mean anything." He stated casually, as if it were no big deal.
The older vampire sipped his wine, gazing at Aidou over the rim. He finished the wine, placing it on the table next to the door, and advanced on Aidou. "Then perhaps we could pick up where we left off." He suggested voice dripped with seduction.
Aidou tensed, trying to gauge the other male's demeanor. "I think not."
Hokkai smiled, strolling leisurely towards Aidou, silver eyes holding the smaller noble's gaze. "Oh come now my little morsel, don't be so stubborn." He reached up and caressed Aidou's cheek.
Aidou batted his hand away.
Zero's eyes shifted to the double doors leading to the veranda. Something was not right. He'd spotted Aidou going through the doors a few moments ago, and then some guy followed him. Aidou's displeasure niggled at the back of his mind and he couldn't help but keep glancing towards the doors.
"Kiryuu, I want you to go fetch Aidou-san for me. I believe he went through the doors leading to the veranda," Kaname stated calmly, going back to his conversation with the older man.
Zero negotiated his way through the people until he reached the double doors, opening them to find Aidou cornered by another vampire. The other vampire was taller and from the looks of it wanted to do more than talk with his mate. Son of bitch. He swallowed. He wanted to murder the man for touching what was his, but he was helpless. If he did anything to defend Aidou now, it could be a catastrophic result. He fucking HATED putting up this pretense.
"Kuran-sama requests your presence." He loathed this; he hated pretending that he was Kaname's lapdog instead of Aidou's life mate.
"Aww." Hokkai put an arm around Aidou's shoulder, squeezing him playfully. However the wicked glint in his eye did not go unnoticed by Zero. "But Hanabusa-chan and I were just getting reacquainted."
Zero twitched. Who the fuck did this guy think he was? Aidou was his! He had not right to touch him. It took every fiber in being to fight back the growl threatening to claw its way out his throat.
Hokkai studied Zero, gray eyes zeroing in on his target. "Hey, aren't you that Hunter turned vampire?"
Aidou growled at Hokkai. "That is none of your business," he said indignantly. If Hokkai continued to goad Zero, his mate was going to shoot him.
Hokkai caressed Aidou's shoulder with his thumb, walking him over to Zero. "You're quite attractive," he leered at the other vampire. "No wonder Kuran-sama keeps you around. I bet you're a great fuck."
Aidou's aura grew dark and dangerous. "You speak out of turn Hokkai Ichihara! Such speech is considered slander which merits serious repercussions." He shrugged away from the taller vampire, glowering at him. "And if you know what's good for you, you will not touch me without my permission ever again!" He regained his composure drawing himself up to his full height, a frown on his adorable face and fire in his eyes. "Now, if you will excuse me, I have to go see why our most esteemed Kaname-sama summoned me." He stalked off the veranda.
Zero watched Aidou leave. Damn, Aidou was so sexy when he got upset. After banishing erotic thoughts about his mate he turned a withering glare to the other noble.
Hokkai licked his lips, giving a low whistle. "That's what I always liked about Hana-chan."
Zero could swear he heard the vein pulsing in his temple. 'Hana' was his nickname for Hanabusa. This fucking dickhead had no right to call him that.
"The years have been kind to him. Wouldn't you agree hunter-san?"
Zero looked into the gray eyes studying him, seeking even a slight reaction. No way would he give this bastard the satisfaction of getting a rise out of him.
"I wonder if his body is still as flawless as the day I painted him naked." He gazed at Zero with wicked eyes. "Or if that tongue is as talented or if his ass is still as virginal."
Zero clenched and unclenched his jaw, feeling anger surge through him. If Zero had been a cartoon character now would be the moment steam would have blown out of his ears. He was going to kill Hokkai.
Aidou walked into the private room and took a seat on the chaise lounge, inhaling a breath to calm his nerves. Seeing Hokkai again had upset his composure. Hokkai had been the only other person he ever engaged in sexual activities with before Zero (besides his father). He remembered the encounter clearly. Hokkai had taken him dry and rough. It had not been enjoyable. Afterwards, he'd felt cheap and dirty.
"There you are."
A chill ran up his spine when he felt his father's aura. Away from the devil only to fall into the deep blue sea.
"I'm happy to see you alone my son."
Aidou stood, muscles tensing. "Hello otousan," he greeted with strained congeniality. With perceptive eyes, he studied his father trying to determine his demeanor, discerning the sinful desire in ocean blue depths. "You look well." He glanced at the door. His father had positioned himself between him and the door, barring his exit.
Kenzo smiled. "Thank you. You've been so preoccupied with your schooling these past years." He advanced towards Aidou, eyes predatory. "It's been so long since I have taken you my prince."
Aidou unconsciously stepped back. "No, I will not allow you to otousan. It's wrong."
Kenzo's features darkened. He was in no mood to be denied. "You have no choice."
Aidou continued mirroring his father's steps, only backwards. "You're lying. Everything that you ever told me is a lie!" Azure eyes narrowed, staring accusingly at his father. "I am more than a shiny bauble. I am person and there are people that love me. As long as I live I will never allow you to defile me again!"
He bypassed his father and started towards the door.
Kenzo seized Aidou's arm and flung him into the wall.
Aidou grunted, teeth rattling from the force of the impact. Before he could react, his father was on him in seconds, a throaty growl rumbling from his chest. "You think that just because you have been away from home for five years and have matured into adult changes your status?" Cold anger smoldered in his eyes, handsome features contorted with rage.
Zero looked up, feeling his mate's distress through their bond. What had Aidou gotten into now? He glanced around the large room, finding that one person was missing: Lord Aidou.
Kaname glanced at Zero out the corner of his eye, detecting the hunter's aggravation.
Zero swore that his heart had jumped into his throat. Aidou was in trouble. He wanted to run up the staircase and save his lover, but… fuck this. He bit his lip and strode towards the staircase. As he walked away he heard Kaname excuse himself. Soon the pureblood walked at his side.
Aidou swallowed. He would not submit to his father this time. He would not allow his father to rape him. With his free hand, he shoved his father away, dissipating the ice encasing his arm and leg. He bared his fangs. "I love you father but I am no longer a slave to your sinful desires and you cannot control me anymore!"
Ice crept along the walls encasing the furniture.
Kaname opened the door, finding Lord Aidou sitting on the couch, aura pulsing with anger.
He stood and gave a bow. "Kuran-sama."
Zero glanced to Aidou, who stood near the window with a shaken countenance.
"We did not interrupt anything did we?"
Lord Aidou shook his head. "Of course not Kuran-sama. Hanabusa and I were merely discussing a trivial private matter." He fought to compose himself.
Kaname nodded. "Good. Because there are business matters I wish to discuss with you."
Kenzo bowed. "Of course Kuran-sama."
"Kiryuu-san, escort Aidou-kun downstairs."
Zero nodded. God how he wanted to hold Aidou and soothe him, letting him know that everything would be okay. With great difficulty he swallowed his ire.
Aidou shook his head. He no longer wanted to be at this party. "Kaname-sama."
Kaname acknowledged the small noble. "Yes?"
"May I go home? I have an important interview tomorrow."
The pureblood nodded. "Granted. Kiryuu-san, escort him to the train station."
The two lovers strode down the staircase leading from the second-storey, taking the less crowded route to the doorway.
"Going so soon Hana-chan?"
Zero glared at the older noble, face one of pent-up rage. Was the guy stalking Aidou?
"Yes." He pulled on his leather coat.
"That makes me sad."
Aidou shrugged and opened his mouth to say something, but was cut off when Hokkai embraced him. His eyes widened and he stared at Zero over the other vampire's shoulder. Zero looked like he was about five seconds from drawing Bloody Rose and blowing Hokkai's head clean off.
Hokkai drew away, withdrawing from Aidou's personal space. "Perhaps I shall see you soon?"
Aidou gave a tight smile, opened the large ornate door, and walked out with Zero in tow. As soon as they were in the limousine and the driver knew his destination, Zero pressed the button to close the divider.
Zero drew Aidou close, kissing him deeply. "Are you okay?"
He nodded. Then it dawned on him. He had actually stood up to his father. "I stood up to him, Zero." His eyes glittered with happiness. "I stood up to my father."
Joy surged through Zero. "I'm so proud of you." He kissed the small blonde's forehead, stroking his silken golden locks.
Aidou hummed softly. "I was only able to do it because you shattered all of otousan's falsities by loving me."
Zero cracked a rare smile and tightened his hold on Aidou. He loved the man encircled in his arms, more than words could describe.
Aidou caught a taxi after arriving in Karasu City and had the driver chauffer him to Just Desserts, a 24 hour pastry shop he adored. Once there he inhaled a deep breath, taking in the magnificent scent of mouthwatering pastries. He ordered one lavender-passion fruit cupckaes and two German chocolate cupcakes.
He sat down in the booth next to the window and ate the cupcakes slowly, savoring every bite. After indulging himself, he took a cab home. He unlocked the door and walked in, striding past their beautifully living room decorated in the modern art deco style living room ( by Aidou of course). He stripped until he was naked and strode into the bathroom. He filled the tub with steaming water, dumping in lavender bath salts, and got in, moaning at the pleasant temperature.
He pulled on a pair of blue silk pajamas and walked out of the bathroom, senses instantly going alert when he felt a distinctive aura. No fucking way. When he entered the living room he found the uninvited visitor examining the large portrait hanging over the fireplace.
"Nice home you have here," he stated nonchalantly as if he had not entered their house uninvited.
Aidou's muscles tensed, on the alert for any sudden movements. "What do you want?" He growled, azure eyes wary.
Hokkai only smiled, turning to regard Aidou with crafty eyes. "I missed you so much little bit." He took a step forward. "All those years away from you were torture and I wanted to see more of you tonight."
Aidou rolled his eyes. Those half-assed lines might have worked seven years ago, but now, puhlease. "So you decided to follow me to Karasu and break into my home?"
Hokkai shook his head. "No, you have a spare key under the welcome mat. I know how you always lost things."
Aidou's frown deepened. He wished his father had never introduced him to this stalker. "What. Do. You. Want?"
Hokkai strode to him, a charming smile on his face, and reached out to caress Aidou's cheek.
Aidou smacked his hand away. "Don't touch me." Despite his bravado doubt started to creep into him. Could he overpower Hokkai if he had to?
Gray eyes narrowed, but a derisive smirk graced his lips. "I didn't obey you the last time you said that. What makes you think I will now?" Moving in a blur, he grasped Aidou and pressed their lips together.
Aidou's, surprised at the sudden action, eyes widened then narrowed. This man was not his mate and he would not stand for his unwanted advances. The temperature in the room dropped dramatically as Aidou's powers manifested themselves at his will.
Hokkai's eyes broadened. "Mmmm!" He dislodged himself from the icy kiss, stumbling backwards. Trembling almost uncontrollably he let a frosty breath escape his blue lips.
Sky blue eyes tinted pink, and ivory white fangs lengthened. "Give me one good reason why I shouldn't end your existence where you stand."
Hokkai held up a small blue object.
Aidou's pinched his lips. It was one of his missing cufflinks. Hokkai must have stolen it during that hug.
"I… announced to a few of my contemporaries that I was… coming here." He managed to rasp out.
Aidou let out an irritated huff and deactivated his powers, 'pulling' the ice from the other vampire's throat and skin. "Leave."
Hokkai sighed, a genuine tired sough. "Can we not be civil about this Hanabusa? How about a drink, wine maybe. We can even catch up on things. I mean we were friends once weren't we?"
Aidou regarded him warily. Shit. Yes they were friends and he had promised the man they would be friends forever (that meant shit now, but he could still be nice). "Red or white?"
Hokkai gave a happy smile and sat down on the cream-colored sectional, resting an arm on the burgundy pillow. "Red please."
Aidou returned from the kitchen carrying two wine glasses. Zero did not care for wine. His mate liked drinks more around the lines of scotch, bourbon, vodka, and sake. He selected a bottle from the three feet tall wine cellar sitting discretely in the corner, matching the furniture perfectly, and popped the cork. He poured the crimson liquid into each glass, placing the bottle back into the cooling cellar. The wine was made for vampires and he would have only one drink with a creep like Hokkai.
Hokkai accepted the drink once proffered and took a sip. "So tell me something."
Aidou sat down on the settee opposite the other vampire. "What?"
"You live here alone?"
"Yes." He couldn't lie to Zero, Akatsuki, or Kaname-sama, but when it came to others besides them he didn't bat an eye. He appeared to lounge on the settee, sipping his wine. He did not enjoy playing these senseless cat and mouse exchanges that were so common among older nobles. He preferred to say what he wanted and get it done, screw polite society protocols. However this time he would bite his tongue, because being impetuous now could lead to disaster.
Hokkai looked at his glass of wine, watching it slosh around as he gently shifted it in circles. "That Level D sure is protective of you."
Aidou's spine stiffened unnoticeably. Hokkai was fishing for something. He shrugged lazily.
"You should have felt his aura when I told him about us. I'd say he was damn near close to using that weapon of his to kill me." He chuckled lowly.
Bastard. What the hell did he tell Zero for? Just wonderful. When Zero arrived home tonight he was going to freak. "Mmm." He took a gulp of wine.
"Kuran-sama sure made a clever choice for a bodyguard. You have to admit. He's hot with that odd coloring and all." His silver eyes sparkled with shameless lust. "And of the famous Kiryuu clan nonetheless."
Aidou crossed his legs and took a sip of his drink, controlling the ire that threatened to rise into his aura. "Quite right," he said stiffly.
Hokkai ran a rosy tongue over his lips. "If Kuran-sama didn't mind. I'd love to do him. Although it would have to be in secret." He watched Aidou, gaze even and unflinching.
Aidou silently seethed, continuing to sip his wine with a calm expression. Don't react Hana he doesn't know anything. He's just fishing for answers, trying to goad you into revealing information.
"You know how our race is. They see one weakness and they go for the jugular. I'd be an outcast in no time. And that doesn't sound like any fun to me. What about you? Do you think you would be afraid if your father disowned you?"
Aidou gave another shrug. Truthfully, he didn't care if his father disowned him as long as Zero was at his side. "It doesn't concern me so I wouldn't care to entertain the subject."
He smiled slyly. "That it doesn't." The brunette crossed his legs, taking another gulp of his wine. "If it were me, I don't think I could handle it. I mean I would lose the luxuries that I have now and the money. Plus his agents would be constantly hunting me down like a common fugitive. No, Kiryuu-san is gorgeous, but he's not worth the trouble." As he talked he stared at Aidou with eagle eyes, watching for the minutest of reactions.
Aidou grappled with his control, knowing that if he displayed any ounce of emotion the other vampire would detect it. "So," he stated casually, "why did you really come back into the country?"
Hokkai gave a charming smile. "Actually my libido drove me here. The need to make love to you was so strong it near overwhelmed me."
Aidou rolled his eyes, finishing off his wine. "You know what I think perhaps you should leave." He was beginning to feel the effects of the wine (Zero was right, he was a lightweight).
Aidou turned the heat up on the thermostat and dragged sleepily to the bed, diving under the layers of cover. He cast a glance to the clock. 7am. He yawned and cuddled into the covers. I hope Zero is okay was his final thought before drifting into rest.
Zero entered the apartment an hour later. He opened the curtains in their room, watching the snowflakes fall heavily from the dark gray clouds. He leaned over and kissed the only visible part of his mate: his blonde waves.
Aidou's eyes opened when cold hands glided over his back. He rolled over, smiling drowsily.
They spoke no words and they didn't need any, because both could feel the love throbbing strongly through their bond.
Zero undressed, blushing slightly when Aidou whistled, and climbed into bed, nestling his mate close. "It's snowing."
Aidou rested his nose in the cradle of his mate's neck. "First of the season."
"You want to go ice-skating when it stops?"
Aidou beamed up at him. "I'd love that."
Zero's heart melted when he looked down at his the tiny blonde. With his hair mussed from sleep and his big blue eyes looking up at him with nothing but adoration, Aidou looked angelic. "So who was that guy?"
Aidou sighed. "Ichihara Hokkai."
A short silence ensued pierced only by the hum of the heating unit and the wind gusting outside.
"Soooo… you let that bastard paint you nude?"
Aidou nodded, starting to doze. He sighed when he felt Zero's jealousy and aggression. "It's called art, my love." He looked up when Zero remained quiet. The hunter's handsome brow was furrowed, his jaw set firmly. "He told you we slept together didn't he."
Zero nodded.
He scooted up to meet Zero's face. "I was young and looking for someone to take away the emptiness inside. He was really smooth and persuasive, and I fell for it. It didn't mean anything."
Zero scowled. "Try telling him that. He seems to think that it means you guys are lovers."
Aidou cringed at the harsh tone in his lover's voice. Well, he most certainly was not telling Zero about Hokkai's unexpected visit. Zero would go all berserk and then get insecure thinking that he would leave him for someone with a better status. He touched Zero's cheek. "It didn't mean anything." He kissed Zero's nose. "Zero, I love you and I wouldn't trade you for anyone in the world. What is past is the past. Okay."
Zero sighed. He couldn't believe that he would ever doubt Aidou. "Yeah." He gave a tiny smile and pressed a kiss to Aidou's mouth.
"Are we through talking? Can I go to sleep now?"
"Go ahead."
Aidou snuggled into Zero, resting his ear over his heart, and was swept away to dreamland.
A week later, Lord Aidou sat in his home office, trying to concentrate on his work. He was angry. Someone had managed to breathe life into his plaything. His marionette was no longer under his control. A knock on his door, drew him from his mental tirade. "Enter."
A servant opened the door. "Lord Aidou." He bowed. "A young man from the Ichihara household has some information that he thinks will be of interest."
"Send him in."
Hokkai swaggered into the room, carrying a manila folder in one hand. He gave a respectful bow. "Good evening Aidou-sama."
Lord Aidou looked over the young man, thinking where he saw him. "Have a seat." He gestured at the chair in front of his desk. He knew the young man's face from the soiree he'd thrown a week ago. "You're the middle son of Ichihara Eichii. Ah, yes you were a friend of my son's."
"Yes I am."
He crossed his legs. "Then tell me, what is it that you think would be of special interest to me?"
"Seven years ago, I became quite fond of your son. My fondness for him grew to such lengths that I even painted a portrait of him."
Kenzo continued gazing at the handsome young vampire.
"When I left the country to experience life, I had a spy watch him. To make sure he was unharmed of course."
Kenzo's eyes narrowed.
Hokkai continued nonetheless. "Over six years ago my spy discovered a very interesting secret about your son." He passed the manila folder to Lord Aidou.
Kenzo took the folder and opened it. Ice blue eyes widened, but soon narrowed into slits as he leafed through the pages.
Hokkai continued talking as Kenzo paged through the portraits. "As you can see from these pictures that your son is not staying in Karasu City only for his studies but because he's living with that worthless Level D scum." That Kiryuu bastard had taken away what was his and he would pay. Aidou-san would kill that Level D and when he was dead, Hokkai would be there to pick up the pieces. "And I believe it is obvious that he's allowing the insect to dominate him."
The pictures were horrid. All of the pictures consisted of his son with the Kiryuu offspring. There were pictures of them kissing, hugging, eating cotton candy together at a festival, at the beach, fishing, ice skating, and shopping. However the one that angered him the most was one of Aidou standing in the doorway placing a goodbye kiss on the ex-human's mouth.
Hokkai fought the evil smile rolling over his lips. "I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but I just thought you should know about your son's double life." Self-satisfaction bloomed within when he saw the fury in the elder Aidou's countenance. His job was done. He stood and bowed. "Thank you for your time Aidou-sama. I suppose I shall leave you to your devices, sir. Good night."
As soon as Hokkai's footsteps faded from hearing, he slung the folder against the wall. Son of a bitch! How could he not see it? This had to be taken care of, promptly. He stood, gathered every picture up and began savagely ripping them to shreds. He threw the confetti into the fire roaring in the fireplace. As he watched the strips shrivel into nothing, a guttural growl escaped him. Hanabusa would pay for his deceit and disgraceful actions.
Yosh! Chapter 26 is done and at a pretty quick update too. I hope you all enjoy this chapter and if you do my luverly readers, please drop me a line.
One Manga no longer has scans of manga T_T. Does anyone know where I can find translated manga of Vampire Knight on the web? Shojo Beat is not sold where I live and I don't know what I'll do if I can't get my monthly dose of Vampire Knight.
Anyhow, ARIGATOU for all of your reviews *bakes Morning Glory muffins and sends a dozen to each reviewer*. Things start to take a darker turn in the next chapter as Aidou and Zero find their world falling apart.
Plus dur!-Harder!
Me baiser!-Fuck me!
Preview:
"We have to go. Now."
Aidou slipped into his boots (no socks) and shrugged on his coat, grabbing his house keys as he hastened out the door. "Kaname-sama, what's going on?" He shivered when the cold gust of wind whipped around his lightly clad body and opened the door to the pureblood's black Ferrari.
Zero was driving past the intersection when his senses screamed danger. Movement caught his periphery vision, but it was already too late.
The truck slammed into his motorcycle, the force and momentum sending him off the road and over the cliff leading to the iced-over lake below.
Next Chapter: Darkest Night
Adios ^_^