Last Resort

by Skyla1

A second chance to do things right this time, it was their last way out. No one said they wouldn't screw up along the way.

9. Mating Rituals

Disclaimer: If I was rich I would own my coveted mini cooper.


Chapter 9: Mating Rituals


Pass it here!

Get the hell out of my face, Soujiro! Junpei spun around trying to fake him out to make the pass to Thomas who wildly waved his arms open for the ball. He swerved to the left and right finally finding a blind spot and tossing the ball.

Thomas jumped up with hands poised to catch the basketball, but to his dismay a hand flew out in front of his face and snatched it away merely inches from his grasp. he cursed under a ragged breath.

Tsukasa felt the rough texture of the rubber ball graze his hand as he snatched it away from Thomas, who looked like he was about to go on a killing spree. He arched his knees gracefully leaping in the air. The ball flew from his hands in a perfect arc towards its intended destination. All eyes locked on the ball as fell through the hoop rattling the chain net.

Game's over! In your face! Akira screamed. He raced towards Tsukasa jumping towards him and wrapping his arms around his neck. Clinging to him like a little monkey with his legs wrapped around Tsukasa's waist he let out a triumphant yelp.

Argh! Get off of me!

I love you man! Akira laughed as he jumped away from his extremely annoyed teammate. He didn't want to risk the wrath of Tsukasa after nearly getting his ass whipped last night. The guy sure knew how to cut off one's circulation in a headlock.

I think you better run before he gives you another beating of your lifetime, Soujiro nonchalantly suggested. He walked over to the sidelines and rifled through his duffle bag procuring a water bottle. Under the intense heat, his skin had become lightly bronzed and somewhat sweaty. He raised his arm wiping away the beads of perspiration forming on his forehead. I still can't believe we won. I don't remember when was the last time we beat those guys.

It was back when we had a team of four. Rui tugged at his shorts pulling them up as they had ridden down low against his hips during play. He snatched the water bottle from Soujiro's hand and squeezed it letting the cool liquid drench his hair and face dripping water down to his stomach. Maybe now we can make back some of the money we've lost these past few years. He gestured towards the four older disgruntled men approaching them.

Here's your money! Junpei bitterly spat as he hurled the wad of bills onto the blacktop.

Akira bent down picking up the crumpled bills and smoothed them out against his chest. He slapped a twenty dollar bill onto his forehead causing it to stick to his sweaty skin. Thank you very much, he mockingly retorted. It's always a pleasure to take money from you losers!

Fuck off! Just because you got someone to cover up for your shitty playing doesn't mean that we'll let out guard down next time.

I beg to differ. With our man, Tsukasa, here I think you'll be handing me more of your money. Come on, no one likes a sore loser. He spread the bills out fanning himself with the crisp paper.

I'm gonna kill, you!'

Whoa! It's just a game, Kin yelled as he grabbed Junpei's arm.

Thomas grabbed the other arm preventing him from strangling Akira's throat. If you know what's good for you, Akira you'll back away right now.

The two managed to pull Junpei away who continuously threw dirty looks at Akira, Soujiro, Rui and Tsukasa. A slew of muttered curses drifted to their ears.

Good game. You were awesome out there Tsukasa. Same time next week? Tsuyoshi picked his bag off the ground and smiled.

Yeah, but maybe you should talk to your friend over there about good sportsmanship, Akira sneered.

Uh yeah. Well, I'll see you guys later. Tsuyoshi's slightly confused face faded away into a small wary smile. He turned around and picked up his pace trying to catch up with his friends.

Good sportsmanship? I've heard of sore losers, but you're a really pain in the ass winner.

It's been so long my pretties, Akira sighed as he plucked a single bill from the bunch and kissed it. You've come home to Papa Akira. He wiped a nonexistent tear from his eye.

Give me that already! Soujiro snatched the money from his greedy hands. After tallying the correct amounts he passed the bills around equally.

Do you guys always play for money?

Yeah, but for the last two years we've been losing money to those guys. We'd always show up, play, and empty our pockets. It's nice to be on the winning side for a change. Rui tucked the bills into an outer pocket of his bag and slumped down onto the grass. He pulled out a t-shirt throwing it over his head.

Soujiro flopped down beside him bringing his knees up to his chest. Looks like we've got our team back, he smirked. You're bartending skills may suck slightly, but in the court, you're the man.

Yeah, what is it with you anyways? I've never seen you with this much energy before. Akira wrapped a towel around his neck and wipes away the drops of sweat trickling down his face.

Well, it was the first night I actually got a good night's rest. Tsukushi or that kid usually keep me up all night with something.

That reminds me. I wonder what the girls are up to. We haven't had a chance to get together in a long time. How about dinner later, my treat?

I'll call Shizuka to let her know.

Dude, I don't think that'll be a good idea. Tsukushi and Shizuka in confined spaces equates to disaster.

Jiro's got a point. If she comes we'll have to take all pointy objects away from Tsukushi.

I think those two will be fine.

Yeah when Hell freezes over.

She has to. Shizuka and I are engaged.

Akira and Soujiro yelled in unison.

When the hell did this happen? Did you tell her yet?

Fuck! Tsukushi is gonna take this out on me, Tsukasa moaned falling over in agony.

Hey, we're both in the same boat. She'll just take it out on me with her harping about my taking ore responsibility with the club. Shit, she just started laying off of me last week about it.

Tsukasa's worse than you. He lives with her, Soujiro chuckled as he fanned Tsukasa trying to arouse him from his state of muttering random comments about women under his breath.
I told her last night, Rui coolly answered. She wasn't exactly thrilled about it all, but she agreed to call a truce for now.

Akira cocked his head to the side keeping his eyes on Rui's lower half. His eyebrows furrowed as if he was in deep contemplation.

What the hell are you looking at?

I was checking to see if you still had your balls intact. I thought she might have ripped them off when you told her.

No good can come of this, Soujiro sighed.

Tsukasa nodded his head in agreement, Although he had known the exact story behind Tsukushi, Rui, and Shizuka's love triangle it was apparent that Tsukushi hated no one more than Shizuka. Rui fit into a close second. With this new turn of events, an uneasy queasiness settled in his stomach. We're all fucked.

------------------------------------

Sakurako lounged on the massage table sniffing the scent of her mango apricot exfoliating body scrub. Another handful of the cold grainy goop was slathered onto her tan legs as well trained hands rubbed up and down her thighs. Oh god, does this feel good.

We should do this more often. Ah! Yuuki gripped the sheets underneath her naked body as the masseuse dug her knuckles into her back kneading away the knots of tension. Where did Tsukushi go anyway?

I think she's getting waxed right now. I told them to give her the works. Resting her cheek against the soft fabric of the sheet covering the table, she contorted her face in disgust. She really needed to get her body fixed up a little. Have you seen her pores? They're like craters.

What are you doing?!

Please lay back, while we do our job.

I don't remember wanting to get anything done there!

It says right here that you paid for this. Just relax and let us do our work. I don't want to get in trouble with my supervisor.

Hell no!

Naoko! I need some help in room four! The sounds of objects crashing to the floor and low grunts flowed out from behind the closed doors. It'll be fast and painless! Hold her down!

A few seconds later, a low moan was emitted resembling that of a wounded animal waiting to be put out of its misery.

Yuuki yanked her body up gripping the sheet to the front of her body. What was that?

I think they just gave her a wax, Sakurako chuckled. I signed her up for everything.

Exactly what kind of wax did you tell them to give her?

A Brazilian, she nonchalantly replied.

The door joining the two rooms slowly creaked open. A very tired and bedraggled Tsukushi emerged clutching the doorframe for support. Her legs remained parted slightly indicating a slight limp with each step. She shot an accusing finger pointed towards Sakurako.

I think I'm going to go get that facial done, Yuuki jumped up from the table and scurried out of the room with the spa staff trailing shortly behind. I um I'll check on you guys later.

Tsukushi ignored Yuuki's haste departure focusing only on the rather smug looking Sakurako. All she wanted to do at the moment was inflict pain on the person who was the cause of the discomfort between her legs. I'm going to fucking kill you.

The smile on Sakurako's face fell like a ton of bricks. She raised her hands in defense trying to plea for mercy. Come on, Tsukushi. I just thought you would want everything done.

I think you need to have every hair on your body waxed off, too. She devilishly pulled out a bowl of hot wax from behind her back.

Ring. Ring.

That's my phone! She dashed behind the massage table and rifled through her purse in search of the god send on the other line. Saved in the nick of time.

Not even close, she grunted in a low voice.

Sakurako cringed behind the table slumping down against the leg. Slowly she raised the phone to her ear. she shakily asked trying to sound perfectly normal.

Hey, I called Yuuki before, but she hung up one me and told me to call you instead.

Sakurako slyly grinned to herself as a plan for escape formulated in her mind. After making the correct calculations for how fasts he could get to the door and at what angle she would have to slide underneath the table, she tossed the phone at Tsukushi. It's for you. Something about Kaya.

The phone flew in the air headed straight for Tsukushi who appeared to be taken off balance worrying about what could be wrong with her child. Little did she notice, Sakurako dash beneath the table into a dive towards the partially open door. Tsukushi fumbled fro the phone that had barely made it into her hands and brought it up to her ear. The slam of the door and a quick shout of I made it! signaled Sakurako's successful escape.

What's wrong with Kaya? she worriedly asked demanding a quick response to her inquiry. Her heart began pounding against her chest as all the possibilities ran through her head.

Kaya? Nothing's wrong with Kaya, Soujiro responded sounding a bit annoyed and confused with the run around treatment he was receiving. Why are you guys playing musical phones for?

Tsukushi clenched her fists muttering to herself, She's going to pay for this later.

From the sounds of it Sakurako has been up to something, Soujiro chuckled over the line. What did she do this time?

The explanation that was about to follow was cut short by the prospect of future jokes about the Brazilian wax coming from Akira and Soujiro. She shook her head deciding it was something that definitely wasn't meant to go outside these walls. Forget it, she defeatedly grumbled.

Whatever. We just finished up our basketball game and to our utter surprise we won for once.

That's great! she squealed. I can imagine how graceful a winner Akira must be. I think I can still hear him celebrating in the background.

We are the champions! No time for losers! Cause we are the champions- of the world! Akira screamed into the phone singing completely off key and hitting a few notes not yet defined by man.

Yeah, he hasn't shut up since we left the court. Will you shut up already?! The phone line began cracking violently with static as if it was dropped onto the floor. A long smacking noise ensued with a loud and some cheers in the background. Sorry about that. Tsukasa just took care of Akira.

Thank god someone had the decency to stop him before he ruined Queen's song.

Back to the reason why I called. We decided to take you girls out to an early dinner before work to celebrate. So are you guys in?

I guess so.

Good. Where are you?

We're at the Bliss Spa on Takeshita Street.

Okay, so why don't we meet at 6 in front of Harada?

Sure, see you then. Bye.



She turned the phone off and glanced around her realizing that she had been abandoned in the room. Storming out she headed straight for the changing room and began putting on her clothes muttering different forms of torture to have vengeance upon Sakurako.

----------------------------------------

I'll take these, thank you, Tsukushi giddily answered the saleswoman. I think Shopping is the best therapy.

Especially when I'm the one footing the bill, Sakurako griped as she painstakingly signed the receipt as if she were signing her soul away. I hope this is the last of the outfit you forced me to buy you.

You got yourself into this predicament and now you're paying, Yuuki laughed from behind the dressing room curtain. She slung the curtain back and strutted out wearing a pair of black strappy stilettos and a low cut black dress falling at her knees. The front dropped down low below the valley between her breasts. A thin diamond chain clasped the two sides of the thin fabric preventing her from exposing her front completely. To complement her new look, her eyes were darkly outlined by black eyeliner and her eyelashes lengthened with false eyelashes. Her lips were painted a dark red contrasting her pale skin. Long silver hoop earrings dangled from her ears brushing against her shoulders.

I like it!

It's a little too revealing for me, but considering the new look your going for thumbs up. Tsukushi picked through the rack of shirts, skirts, and pants hanging off the rack. Why don't you get something a bit more conservative? Like this. She held up a white pantsuit and handed it to her. It's a bit less obvious for the game of seduction you are playing. Plus, you could pull off a cute lacy camisole underneath to make it more casual or if you want to be bit more naughty a corset underneath.

You do have impeccable taste, girl. Yuuki gratefully accepted the outfit and after a few minutes she re-emerged in the outfit. She stepped out earning a few passersby to stop and stare into the store at the beauty emerging from the dressing room. I'm not so sure about the pink top, though

Very sophisticated, Sakurako commented as she zipped up a pair of long black boots she was trying on.

Keep the pink top. It suits you. There's a certain degree of class you've got to keep up. She turned her direction towards Sakurako who had wandered off prodding a mini skirt and tube top. And you! No more of those clothes. You've got to get some decent clothes that says take me home to meet your mother' and less one night stand'.

She's right. You've turned down everything we've suggested, Sakurako. If you want to be taken seriously, you've got to rethink the wardrobe. It's like everywhere you go all we see are two large pairs of breasts. There is more to you than body.

Well, you flaunt your talents, she wagged a finger winking mischievously.

I think she may be a lost cause.

Not exactly. She might have a few problems without this. Yuuki held up a small case in her hand.

How did you get that?! Sakurako screeched lunging towards Yuuki, but was brutally disappointed when it went flying through the air towards Tsukushi.

Tsukushi twirled the case in her hand laughing. I still see you never leave home without it. How did you manage to pry this away from her, Yuuki?

I took it from her purse while she was in the shower this morning, she devilishly smiled. It'll take her a few days to get a new one, so we've got some leeway to tame her sexual urges.

Sakurako's eyes flashed red ready to attack to kill. Damn it! Give me back my fucking diaphragm!

Tsk. Tsk. Tsk. You seem to have drawn a bit of attention to yourself, Tsukushi chided. I guess I'll be holding onto this for awhile. Let's just grab all this stuff and pay for it. She motioned towards the eager salesgirl expecting a large commission from their little shopping expedition. Although they were a loud group that had scared away a few of their customers entering with their blunt and rather crude remarks, the bill they racked up was enough to grant a reprieve for their lunacy.

Will that be all for today? the girl bowed bringing over the receipts to be signed.

Her hand weaved in an effortless motion as she signed her name on the dotted line marking her purchase totaling a paltry sum in comparison with Yuuki and Sakurako tab. Yuuki and Sakurako signed their receipts in turn barely flinching at the glaring price tags of their new wardrobes. It was all a matter of the attitude and that gave them the luxury to walk into the more affluent shopping districts where money talked and no one asked where it came from. It was all a smile, sign the paper, and everyone was happy. For all they knew they were just another set of elitist princesses out for their daily shopping trip.

Thank you, Tsukushi politely replied yanking the tags off of her new outfit she had changed into.

Yuuki and Sakurako in turn dropped the tags onto the table and walked out with full bags juggling in each arm towards Tsukushi's Jaguar parked in front. A few catcalls were directed towards them earning a rather unpleasant digit to be thrust in the air from Sakurako and an appalled gasp from an elderly woman. Yuuki and Tsukushi continued walking pretending they did not know the uncouth woman behind them.

So what is next on your master plan, Yuuki? We've already redesigned your house, bought an entirely new wardrobe, and had makeovers. What else do we need?

Are you really that slow? What else, but lingerie? You can't seduce a man without some artillery. Sakurako pointed towards a store across the street carrying items needed for all genders to please their sexual needs.

What is that? Is that a high class sex store?

Pretty much. They've got some hot stuff in there. The overly excited woman dragged them across the street towards a shop called Behind Closed Doors.

It wasn't nearly as bad as Tsukushi expected with chains, whips, and other S&M goodies hanging form the ceilings to the floor. They did actually have a pretty decent section for the more tame consisting of tasteful lingerie. Sakurako quickly went to work tossing slips, garters, bras, and panties in every direction towards Yuuki who seemed a tad dazed over the wave of stimuli. Her eyes practically popped out of her head when a pack of edible panties were added to the pile.

I think that's my cue to leave. Sorry, Yuuki, but this is where I draw the line in helping you. I better leave before she tries to sucker me into buying some crotchless panties. I'll wait for you guys outside. She patted Yuuki on the shoulder and laughed to herself. This is really Sakurako's element.

Yuuki pitifully dropped the pile of high priced scraps of cloth on the ground and stared at them. Sex. That was all it came down to. She recalled the words that Sakurako had so wisely mentioned earlier.

When it all comes down to it you have to show that you hold the power. And where is that power? Sex. Either you have it or you don't because in the end sex is what will have them crawling back to you. You've got to own it. You've got to hold the power.

In reality, she always preferred to believe that the complex relationships men and women found themselves in would revolve around communication, trust, and emotional bonding. However, in the case of a certain bartender it was quite questionable. He always seemed more prone to the physical. Maybe he just hasn't found his match yet? It was too late now to turn back. If that was what he wanted she would sell herself using every last feminine wile in her body. Like the saying goes, sex sells. Nishikado Soujiro, you are in for one surprise.



she asked snapping out of her thoughts to see a hand waving in front of her face.

Where did Tsukushi go?'

Oh, she was uncomfortable in here so she said she would wait outside.

Well, I've got some goodies here for you. The evil look in her eyes was enough to set off that alarm go off in her head that she was in trouble. Get in there and try some of this stuff on. She grabbed her by the arm and flung her into one of the empty dressing rooms.

---------------------------------

While schemes were being plotted to draw the playboy into a complicated game of seduction, he unknowingly walked down the street getting out into the fresh air trying to escape the suffocating heat in his apartment. Akira had ditched him hours before when a sudden mid-day fling presented itself. He was out the door faster than a bat out of hell. Silly as it was, there was some truth to be found in the old adage about sports and sex. Akira was always a firm believer in the theory, and without a fix for the last few days he was like a thirsty man in a desert. Rui had disappeared to god knows where. He was always the type to just disappear by himself either choosing his own quiet solitude over his companions. Tsukasa had retreated to the inner sanctum of his apartment probably trying to suck up as much quiet time as possible before hurricane Tsukushi lashed out on him once again. So, there he was once again alone. One is always the loneliest number.

He kicked a crumpled piece of paper on the ground not paying much attention to his surroundings or the direction he was heading towards. He could feel the eyes of women leering in his general direction. It was his damn curse to have women instinctively be attracted to him even when he wasn't trying to get them into his bed. It almost seemed as if they flocked to him. Women came and went like the passing of the days of the week, but in his heart hung heavily the image of one woman who would always hold a place dear to his heart. It was rather odd that at times the reaction to the thought of her would make his heart alight with joy at simpler times when everything had transparent, others it felt like something ripping his inside apart at the prospect of an emotion he should not be feeling at all.

His steps faltered for a moment in front of a small gathering crowd outside the window of a clothing store. Perhaps there was some sort of celebrity inside or something drawing crowds to ogle a fashion show. It didn't matter much to him either way who it was. Models, actresses, women in general were only play things meant to be dragged around a bit for show before being shelved for a newer model. It was the sudden attack on his senses that brought him down from his high horse, when he caught a short glimpse of the people inside drawing a show.

He should have known better, he thought to himself. From outside he could see the faint trace of Tsukushi and Sakurako's heads from behind. What he never expected was the assault on his body at the sight of her, Yuuki. It would be a lie to say he was blind to the sight before him. He never once denied the fact that she was a woman, but those clothes. That damn sheer lace camisole that hung to her every curve of her milky white flesh was enough to make him want to rush in there and drag her into one of dressing rooms to cover her up. What was this feeling? Jealousy?

He couldn't feel that way, not now not ever. Yuuki was Yuuki, something to be put in the realm of no man's land for the likes of him. However, the sudden change in her outer appearance was not enough to draw him into a complete oblivion of insanity. No, something was definitely not right in this picture.

Boredom makes you co stupid things, and that nagging curiosity in the back of his head was more than enough to propel him on a chase to find out why this turn of events was happening. Silently he stalked his prey from across the street waiting for them to depart from the store. The moment. He saw the three vixens step out into the light of day drawing the attention of a few more catcalls than he appreciated. He replayed the conversation earlier rethinking the sudden trip to the spa explaining Yuuki's apparent new look. Although the makeup and hair attempted to create a sophisticated mature look for the young woman, he could see right through it seeing nothing more than the naïve girl that still slept with teddy bears.

What are they doing going into there?! He watched Yuuki and Tsukushi timidly be dragged into Behind Closed Doors. He instantly recognized the familiar lettering from the shopping bags that generally lay scattered in the closets of his trysts. If you thought Victoria's Secret was deadly, this place was lethal. His legs quavered at some of the racier outfits he had the privilege of bearing witness to.

Normally it was more of an Akira to stalk the girls when an opportunity for future verbal torture presented itself, but it was more pure intrigue that kept him in this game of cat and mouse. Speak of the devil, one of the mice has left the pack.

Hey!' he yelled jumping from behind Tsukushi and wrapping his arms around her.

Her shrill screamed filled the street making people stop and stare. On instinct she spun around and landed a sharp upper cut into his jaw.

Jumping back in time before any further damage was done he rubbed his jaw. God, sometimes I wonder if you're a man trapped in a woman's body with a fist like that.

Tsukushi heavily panted waiting for the signs of cardiac arrest to subside in her chest. I'll let that comment slide for now until my heart drops out of my throat. What the hell are you doing here anyway? It's not like you to loiter the streets like some depraved stalker.

I was just passing by.

she disbelievingly shrugged. Feeling quite annoyed by him at the current moment, she turned to walk away.

Hey, wait up! He reached a hand out onto her shoulder and draped an arm over her. So, I heard about Rui and Shizuka this morning.

If you are going to give me one of those brotherly speeches about growing up and moving on with my life you're a little too late. I think it's better we leave it as it stands- a standstill. It'll be much better in your interest if you drop the issue. I still need some time to process all of this.

It's marriage, he sighed digging his hands into his pockets. It sorta just seems surreal that we've reached that pointing our lives.

Not all of us plan on going solo the rest of our lives. At some point we've all got to settle down.

And you plan on doing that?

Maybe. Who knows I could always meet my Prince Charming who will sweep my off my feet? I guess deep down all girls just want to meet the guy and settle down, have the house, the kids, and all that domestic bliss.

Coming from you, it sounds a tad disturbing.

Whether or not you like it, women reach a point where they don't want to fuck around anymore. No one will wait around forever for something that may not come around.

That reminds me. I know she said she was cool with what happened, but is Yuuki still cool with what happened?

Yeah she is I think. I would have been downright pissed like after the little preview she saw through your window of your wild night. No one likes to be ditched.

yeah I did notice that little middle finger salute from her. Should I do something to make it up to her?

Forget about it. She's pretty much over it. Actually she's been too preoccupied with a certain guy that has caught her eye. She's going all out for this one. It's nothing like her last few boyfriends. She really thinks he is the one.

A flash of jealousy raced through his fevered mind remembering the last few losers Yuuki had dated. Each and every single on he hated, but then again there wasn't much reason to not like them. Yuuki had a tendency to fall for the wrong kind of guys. She would go into the new relationship full force and then they would draw back breaking her heart and shattering any self-confidence in herself as a woman. In reality, they were assholes looking to exploit her forgiving and caring nature.

Do I know him?

He's actually someone we all know, she casually stated.

It was all too easy to mess with his head. As much as she loved Soujiro and his pride in being a master of the mind of a woman, he was completely oblivious when it came to Yuuki in certain ways. Yes, he did realize she had a slight infatuation with him, but he never would have thought of the huge effort she would put into trapping him. Then something hit her like a brick wall. A plot was forming in her manipulative head, one that would perhaps kill two birds with one stone in her. It was like putting two and two together. At first she had decided to drop little hints that the man was him, but no this would be ten times more fun. Yuuki and Sakurako would probably want to kill her later for this, but hey it was worth a shot in the dark. God, now she was becoming like Akira butting into everyone else's business.

You probably saw Yuuki earlier. She went all out for this guy with a trip to the spa and the new wardrobe. She really wants to impress him. I think they would make the perfect couple. He's pretty much the exact guy she needs right now.

he inquired showing more interest in the current topic than the previous. I guess I'll be the judge of that.

She couldn't resist the final push of his buttons. Underneath that cool playboy exterior she could see the twinge of jealousy growing in him. This time it was serious game they were playing.

Looking him dead in the eyes making sure not one word would not be ingrained in his mind she spoke. Yuuki's tired of it all, and she's moving on. She won't wait around forever.

She didn't even give him a chance to take in the new turn of events. If she hung around him any longer she didn't think she could hold in the smile that threatened to expose the thickening plot.

Soujiro stood dumbfounded wondering who the hell that guy was. At first, he thought that she might have been talking about him, but then there was that sudden twist in the conversation made him doubt otherwise. He watched Tsukushi casually walk away definitely with some sort of sense of foreboding in his future. The disconcerting exchange definitely was not what he had intended to gain from this.

-------------------------------

Tsukasa lazily sprawled against the couch channel surfing over the hundred of channels that had yet to be explored. On a sweltering day like today, he was lucky out find himself laying around the house letting his mind deteriorate with each passing infomercial while the hum of the air conditioning lulled him to sleep. As far as he was concerned, there was nothing in the world that could force him to leave that couch. The old woman and that brat had long ago locked themselves inside the bedroom for a nap or something. The idea of a nap started to sound better and better to him, so he let his eyes close drowning out the and of the audience's fascination with knives that could cut through anything imaginable.

Is this all you do around here?! a rather stern voice bellowed into his ears. Tama sharply rapped her cane against his shins forcing him to move his legs off the couch and sit upright.

Tsukasa winced in pain, and rubbed his assaulted shins muttering a string of curses under his breath. What the hell was that for old woman?

She seated herself across from him and shut the television off. Staring straight into his eyes as if trying to burn a hole into a soul, she cleared her throat. I hate to see young people waste their lives on mindless trite.

Maybe some of like that mindless tripe, he retorted crossing his arms over his chest knowing that there was probably some long lecture to follow from the prehistoric being. His eyes lingered on the wrinkles on her face wondering if maybe the number of wrinkles equated to her true age like the number of rings on a tree stump can tell you the number of years of its existence. Something tells me this isn't about my television watching.

You are smarter than you look.

The disapproving scowl on his face portrayed his apparent dislike for the old woman's candor. What is it already?

Tsukushi is young and still learning. She prefers to blindly grasp through the world believing the best in people. She is exactly the same as her brother. Her heart has always been her own undoing.

Heart? You've got to be shitting me.

His colorful language was met with a quick rap of her cane across his legs.

Her face remained fixed while her eyes danced with a slight glimmer of sadistic pleasure in punishing him. I suggest you refrain from using such foul language near the little one. She placed her cane back by her side and continued. I don't trust you, but apparently the young miss has chosen to allow you to stay against her better judgment. The little one has apparently taken to you also.

Does this little speech have a point to it? he grumbled. The desire to snatch that cane away from her and smashing it into a thousand pieces grew within him. His fingers itched at his side while he silently mulled over the best time to grab the thing from her.

I don't like you.

Well, I don't like you either.

I just wanted to make it certain where we stand. She warily eyed him and gripped the side of her chair to get up. I will be watching you.

Tsukasa leaned back against the couch wondering what the hell had just occurred between him and the decrepit hag. Something just wasn't right about the way she was looking at him, but then again old people generally didn't find his attitude very respectful in the first place. Then there was that nagging feeling in the back of his head.

I'm starting to have that feeling that I've fallen into my own grave and I just keep shoveling.

The doorbell rang stirring him to his senses. Grudgingly he dragged himself form his comfortable position and swung open the door. Hey Rui,' he waved before stomping back onto the couch.

I'm here to pick up Kaya for the afternoon, he briefly stated before heading straight into her bedroom. A few moments later he walked back out with Kaya in tow and Tama not too far behind. I'll be dropping her off back here in a few hours. Tsukushi said she would be taking the night off, so she should be back here by around nine to let you off duty.

She's already informed me off this, Tama stiffly replied. She watched his ever move as if scrutinizing his true intentions of really brining back the child.

I'll see you later, Rui waved to Tsukasa.



Bye, Mr. Pineapple!

Sure thing, kid.

Minutes later, the door slammed shut and to his relief, he was alone in the apartment again. Turning the television back on he settled his head against a pillow.

Now back to these amazing knives.

-------------------------------------

Rui felt the grip on his hand loosen the moment they reached the park. He watched Kaya maniacally run up the hill towards the large tree in top. She chased after a white butterfly trying to capture it in her hands. A small smile crept onto his lips watching her playful innocence.

He flopped his body down and leaned back against the trunk of the tree. His fingers plucked a few blades of grass releasing them to drift away in the wind. The wild girl ran circles around him before he could find the chance to make a quick grab for her pulling her down in a heap besides him.

I wanted to talk to you about something.

What is it, Papa? Are we going to go get ice cream later? Her face lit up immediately at the word ice cream.

Maybe, but I wanted to talk to you about something else. I was thinking that maybe when you stay with me for two weeks this summer we could go to the beach. I've already made some reservations for us to rent a house on the beach.

Really? I want to go swimming!

I'm glad that you like the idea. I was also thinking Shizuka could come with us. I know she's been wanting to spend some time with you.

There was a small resistance on Kaya's part about that small detail. For a young child, she was extremely aware of the tension that existed between the adults. She knew deep down, that her mother did not seem to like the woman that much. However, for as long as she was on this earth she was raised believing that there had never been a real time when her parents had ever been together. A slight frown appeared on her face.

What's wrong? I thought you liked Shizuka?

On Kaya's part hate and dislike were not part of the way she was built. On the other hand, she had seen the effects of her mother's broken heart every time it seemed as if she had chosen the other woman over her mother. It was a delicate balance for such a young child to maintain. No, I like her, she smiled trying to appease her father.

That's good, he sighed in relief. He knew the topic he was trying to break into would be difficult. It was his job to tell her. Tsukushi refused to be the one to tell her. Well, you might be seeing her a lot more. Papa, has asked Shizuka to marry him and she said yes. She's going to be my new wife soon.

Kaya wasn't your ordinary child. Most children grew up with the ingrained impression that mothers and fathers were married and lived together. Two qualifications that both her parents did not abide to. They had already had the talk a long time ago about different types of families. She sometimes considered herself lucky to be different form the other kids. She had two homes; therefore, twice the number of toys to divide into two locations, but sometimes all a kid wants is normalcy. A feeling that they are just like everyone else, and not a target for kids whose parents were bound my marital vows. It almost seemed unfair that other kids got to live with both their parents. The natural order of things to her knowledge was marriage then baby.

Do you still love Mama?

That was a question he definitely was not expecting. Of course, I do. I always will love your mother as much as I love you.

Then why didn't you ever marry her?

He sighed running a hand through his hair trying to think of a proper way to explain things. We've talked about this before. Your mother and I once loved each other, so much that we had you. I still love her, but not the same way I used to. We knew if we stayed together neither of us would ever be really happy. Sometimes people love each other so much they are willing to let go of the other to be truly happy. Your Mama and Papa loved each other enough to let the other find the person they would really be happy with.

Will Mama find someone to be happy with?

One day.

Can I ask you something?



Does this mean I can have the little brother or sister I've been asking for?

We'll talk about that later.

------------------------------------

Tsukushi grinned to herself after hanging up her phone. This plan was fool proof. Generally she would have never bothered to get involved with a scheme like this, but what the fuck. Everyone else thought it was their duty to screw with her love life, so why not turn around and pull the same crap with them. It did guarantee an interesting show, though. God, some of Akira was really rubbing off on her.

She picked up her latte and headed towards the fiction section of the small bookstore ready to immerse herself in some plotlines that probably resembled her own life at the moment. It was really one of her secret passions. Yes, she did enjoy reading a good Bronte or Dickenson, but throw in a little shameless Nicholas Sparks or Jill Shalvis and she was a happy camper. Slipping in between the stacks, she settled herself into one of the couches left on the side for a book whore like herself. Just to be on the safe side she placed her decoy copy of Jane Eyre in front of the latest Harlequin novel placed on the shelves that week. Nothing was more pathetic for a connoisseur of fine literature, like herself, to be caught reading something that depraved housewives lacking luster in their sex lives took interest in. Honestly it was the closest thing to a sexual thrill she had experienced in a long time.

It's moments like this that I love the most. I've got my coffee in one hand and a piece of purely fictional slightly pornographic reading material in the other. Now all is right with the world. Just play it cool. For all the people around me know, I'm deeply engrossed in Jane Eyre.

Peace was something that sadly enough was fleeting for her.

Jane Eyre? I've never been much of a fan of the book.

She was roused from the throes of passion Margaret was about to experience with her raven haired Adonis. Peering an eye over the cover of the book, she inspected her rude intruder. He definitely was nothing to compare to the likes of the finely chiseled god, Robert in her book. Her eyes lingered on his tousled chestnut hair, the warm hazel eyes,
and kind smile glaring her in the face. His wrinkled grey t-shirt bearing some lettering she couldn't quite read and his baggy jeans clung to his lean body. Judging from him his towering over her, he was about 5'10.

He's not exactly bad looking either. Shut up, Tsukushi! Stop letting your hormones get the best of you. Sure, the book was slightly turning you on, but this is reality now. Fuck! Is he still looking at me. Okay, just ignore him and maybe he'll go away.

She turned away and proceeded to immerse herself deeper in the book hoping he would have gotten he hint to walk away.

Do you mind if I sit here?

She shrugged her shoulders and moved her purse over trying to avoid any eye contact with the guy who obviously found it his life mission to bother her now. Go ahead, she grumbled in a very unfriendly manner.

She peered to the side to watch him flip through a magazine and breathed a breath of relief that he was going to leave her alone now. She reached to the floor and picked up the Styrofoam cup containing her hot coffee. Raising the cup to her lips she slowly took a long sip with her eyes closed savoring the rich taste and smell of fresh brewed coffee. A small sigh of satisfaction escaped her lips followed by a slight smile. Her tongue darted out to lap up the trickling drop of coffee that lingered on her upper lip. Lazily she opened her eyes, and much to her dismay the young man had dropped the magazine to his lap and was now openly gawking at her with his mouth slightly agape.

Now he was really pissing her off.

Why don't you take a picture? It'll last longer, she nastily snapped.

He scrambled to pick up his magazine trying to regain what little remaining dignity he had left and propped it back up in front of his face. Little did he know the latest edition of Newsweek was prominently upside down in his hands. Either he was a real idiot or he had an impeccable skill of reading upside down.

It was just a little too funny for words. Laughter erupted from her lips. Putting down her books, Tsukushi reached over and snatched the magazine from his hands. She made sure he saw the obvious triumphant smirk on her face before flipping it right side up and placing it back into his hands. Seeing as how the poor guy had been humiliated enough, she rose from the couch carrying her coffee in one hand and her books in the other. Happy reading, she giggled.

Seeing as how Yuuki and Sakurako would probably be looking for her by now, she proceeded towards the check out counter. It was becoming apparent that the only time she would ever have to indulge in her secret pleasure would be in the confines of her bedroom late at night.



She turned around and just her luck it was him.

she asked raising an inquisitive eyebrow.

You forgot your other book.

Busted.

Utter humiliation and defeat were written all over her face. Not only did this stranger have the nerve to chase her away from her little corner sanctuary of the bookstore, he had the nerve to discover her little secret. Thank you, she gritted out between her teeth. A faint blush crept up over her pale cheeks.

He flipped the book in his hand staring down at the picture of the very much half naked man looming over the busty vixen on the cover. Don't worry. I'll keep your little secret, he nervously laughed while running one hand through his hair. He placed the book back into her outreached hand, but held on a few seconds longer than necessary before relinquishing the object. You don't remember me, do you?

Should I?

Oh yeah, I guess you might now remember me from the other day. I was the guy who saw you give the anti-christ what he deserved. That old guy had it coming to him.

Vague recollection seeped into her brain. Her eyes narrowed trying to make a connection to the face in front of her, and then it all came rushing back to her. The clapper! she said a little too loudly finally making the connection.

His face scrunched up in confusion for a moment, before his face turned a nice shade of red. Yeah, that was me.

Well thanks for giving my book back. I was just about to go pay and leave. I'll see you around I guess. Wanting to make a haste retreat she threw the books down onto the counter waiting impatiently for the salesperson to ring up her purchase.

Yeah, well you probably don't remember me from the other classes. I think we took Writing I two semesters ago with Furahata, then there was Eighteenth Century Lit. with Sasaki, Prose and Composition with Sohma, and a couple of others I can't really remember now.

Oh great. Here's another stalker to add onto the list.

I've always noticed you class. I must say when you read aloud in our creative writing course last semester I couldn't stop thinking about what you wrote for weeks. I've just never gotten the chance to actually speak to you until now.

Definitely stalker. I can see it already. I'm the poor writer locked up in his apartment while he threatens to hack off my legs with an axe kinda like that movie . Walk away Tsukushi. Better yet, run.

That's very nice of you. I'm flattered and all. I slapped the few bills down onto the counter and hugged the bag under my arm.

Noticing my obvious wariness of his sudden confession he stepped forward cornering me before I could get to the door. I didn't mean to freak you out like that, but I sincerely meant that I admire your work. My intention wasn't purely to bore you to death with praises or anything.

Danger! Too close for comfort!

a cheery voice yelled from the doorway.

I thought you were going to wait for us outside, an exasperated Sakurako interrupted. Who's this?

I turned towards my friends and for the first time I can honestly say I was glad to see Sakurako in all her rude glory. This is

Aoike Kazuya, he slowly smiled extending a hand towards the two women. He stepped away from Tsukushi letting her escape behind Yuuki for protection like a frightened child.

Nice to meet you, Yuuki replied. How do you know Tsukushi?

Oh, we had some classes together this semester.

Sakurako's predatory grin spread from ear to ear. She never mentioned to us how handsome the guys were at college. If I knew I would have signed up myself.

Uh yeah, he grimaced clearly becoming a tad frightened by her forward nature.

It was rather funny the way that the sudden appearance of her two companions evened out the playing field. Nothing more can frighten a man than the feeling of being closed in by a group of women that looked more like a pack of hyenas ready to shred him apart.

This has been nice and all, but I think we really should be going. I tugged at Yuuki and Sakurako's arms.

A mischievous glimmer of a smirk crossed Yuuki's lips. Oh we still have time. I would like to get to meet your friend a little better here.

Having no idea how it even happened in the first place, Tsukushi found herself sitting in the café conjoined to the bookstore sharing a table with Yuuki, Sakurako, and the supposed stalker, Kazuya. Although she fought overruled decision to make a haste exit, she found herself not quite disliking him as much as their initial encounter. He was actually a bit more interesting once you got past his weird need to praise her every so often.

So you're an English? Yuuki drawled finding rapt interest in the topic. Do you want to be a writer yourself?

I like to think I am one, but compare to Tsukushi over here I'm starting to doubt my capabilities.

Enough about that. Tell me, Kazuya. Where are you from? Sakurako asked.

I've only been in Tokyo for the last two years. I moved here when I started university. I originally came from Atami.

Oh, you lived by the beach?

Yeah. It was a pretty boring community over there mostly with elderly retirees. My parents forced us to stay there to run the resort we own.

Wait, a sec! Do your parents happen to own the Crown resort?

Guilty as charged, he answered raising a meek hand.

Oh my god, I can't believe I'm sitting at the same table with the owner of the top resort in Atami. We usually stay there every time we visit during the summer, Sakurako gushed. She casually leaned forward and rested a hand onto his thigh making him jump a little in his seat. I love your place.

It's nothing much, really. It's mainly a small family business.

I wouldn't call a staff of two hundred and a gross profit of close to 5 million a year a small family business, she murmured under her breath.

Yuuki swiftly kicked her from underneath the table trying to hide the dismay in her face at her friend's comment. Yes, we usually reserve one of the beach houses out there every summer. The service has always been amazing. I don't think I've ever seen you there before, though.

Yeah, well I usually spent the summer surfing and not really helping out. I was never very good at being a bellboy I'm afraid.

Look at the time, Yuuki faked shock. We need to get home and get ready for work later. Right Sakurako? she winked.

What are you talking about?

A bitter strain overtook Yuuki's normally cheerful tone. Didn't you say something about helping me with moving some? Do you remember what we agreed upon about helping?

Wha? Ow! she yelped as another swift kick was directed to her shin. Oh yeah, the furniture. She stood up and shook Kazuya's hand. Holding it a little longer than necessary, she tried to decipher the conversion of the size of his hand in relation to another body part. You've got a firm hand shake there. It's gentle yet firm.

Yes, I hope we meet again, Yuuki smiled as she shoved Sakurako out the door.

Mortification. That was the look on Tsukushi's face. Traitors the two of them. She watched their hands waving in wild motions at her from the window showing their approval. She wanted nothing more than to slam her head against the table in response.

He turned his head to the side just catching a glimpse of their wild antics form the street.

I'm really sorry about my friends. They can get carried away sometimes.

No, it's fine. I understand. I know of the unspoken rule about girls ganging up on the poor guy that tries to make a move on their friend.

Yeah, I know, she laughed.

Well, at least now you know my life history. I hope I could get to know a little more about you. Well, I mean I was going to Would you? he stuttered. Finally giving up, he blurted out, Do you want to go out some time? Like a movie or dinner sometime?

Now came the hard part. He was just so damn pathetic, but she knew it was going to end up like this in the end. Oh, I'm sorry. I'm not really in a place to date anyone right now. Things are just a bit too complicated right now.

Oh, I see. I should have known someone like you would already be attached. It was my mistake for wasting your time. You can't blame a guy, right?

Something about that disappointed look on his face struck a chord in her. It had been way too long since she was able to carry out an adult conversation with someone else without having to explain the meaning of the word genre.

I better get going. Sakurako and Yuuki are probably waiting outside for me. It was nice meeting you anyway, Kazuya. She stood up to take her leave.

Well, I hope maybe we'll meet again. I'm a frequent patron of this bookstore.



Wait, before you leave. Here, this is for just in case you change your mind. He grabbed a pen from his back pocket, and scribbled something resembling a phone number inside the book cover before handing it to her.

Martin Gray's The Book of Life she recited reading the cover of the book.

My number is in there. You can keep the book, too. I think you might like it.

Thank you, she replied shoving the book into her purse.

Tsukushi walked out the café taking one quick glance back at the insistent man. He would surely get an A for effort in his pursuit to get her attention. Sakurako and Yuuki jumped her once she got out of plain sight.

So what happened?!

Did he ask you out?!

Nothing happened, she shrugged. He asked me out, but I told him I wasn't really into dating anyone right now.

Are you fucking nuts? Sakurako screamed at the top of her lungs. Not only was the guy pretty good looking, but he has a bank account large enough to buy a small island. In my book that constitutes a man that you should marry. Hell, if you don't want him. I'll take him! She spun around determined to head straight back towards the café.

Tsukushi reached a hand out and grabbed her before she embarrassed herself any further. Drop it already. I think you've reached your quota on scaring the shit out of people for today.

The rest of the car ride was spent in pretty much misery for Tsukushi as she listened to Yuuki's disapproving comments about passing up a good prospect. The car ride was worsened ten times by Sakurako's whining about how she could have been a millionaire's wife.

---------------------------------------

The three women sauntered into one of the secluded back rooms of the exclusive restaurant gaining the stares and attention of their fellow diners. Eyes followed their cat like movements and the gentle sway of their hips as they passed by. Men looked on wishing they could ever get close enough to something like that, while the women looked on with envy written all over the scowls on their faces. The waiters fought over who would pull out their chairs fighting for the chance to even brush a hand against their bodies to touch something that was above them all, goddesses.

Being the gentlemen they were, Akira and Soujiro automatically stood up to pull out chairs for their partners. Although Tsukasa did require a little bit of encouragement form Soujiro, meaning a kick from underneath the table telling him to get up.

Why is everyone kicking me today? he grumbled underneath his breath while trying to keep a fake smile on his face.

Tsukushi chose to ignore his stupidity and flashed a genuine smile. Thank you.

Oddly enough Tsukasa had to admit seeing her dressed up the way she was, he didn't exactly like or dislike her much at the moment. It was a little unnerving to see her actually acting like a lady.

Tsukushi could feel his eyes on her. She motioned to try to smooth out any wrinkles in her cream-colored skirt, and lavender silk halter-top. She shuddered a little underneath the blast of air conditioning streaming directly at her from above. Goosebumps formed on her exposed shoulders and arms. She jumped a little when she felt her chair being moved over the side. Turning to her right, she saw the arms of Tsukasa pushing her chair over and moving his own in the way of the stream of cold air.

Are you still cold?

she replied in a daze at a genuine act of chivalry on his part. That was nice of you.

Couldn't let you get sick and spreading it to that kid. There's nothing more that I hate than sick people, he gruffly replied trying to downplay what he had done.

Good one, Soujiro whispered.

He glanced over at Akira who had also noticed the small exchange between the two. It was a rare moment of civility between the two, and they did actually seem like they didn't want to strangle the other to death. They nodded to each other both realizing that perhaps Tsukasa was starting to come around, and maybe Tsukushi was too.

Soujiro tried his best to restrain the need to stare at Yuuki with a gaping mouth. He almost lost it when she walked in. It was acceptable for Sakurako to come waltzing in wearing something that could barely be considered legal to wear outside. The fiery red strapless dress that hung snugly around her every curve and stopping at her knees in a small flair was a little conservative for her, though. What Yuuki was wearing could be considered downright indecent. Being a man first and foremost, he found his eyes wandering down to her chest that was almost exposed by the low cut of the front. It must have taken some sort of miracle to keep the two thin pieces of fabric pulled over enough to cover each of her breasts. Any sudden movement would have probably caused her to burst out. Then there was the fact that she was wearing black of all colors. It was alluring just to know what other dark secrets she was hiding. Her hair was different now, too. It was straighter now, and had a few specks of blonde highlights reflected off the lights in the restaurant.

You look nice, he whispered into her ear barely able to hide slightly breathless and deepened rumble in his voice.

You don't look too bad yourself, she smirked. She didn't even bat an eyelash at his comment letting it drip off of her like water. In this game, she had to act cool and aloof.

Woah! Somebody prettied you three up, Akira whistled.

Always the one with such eloquence and charm, Tsukushi smiled. In response to that, I must say you look pretty damn hot yourself.

Sakurako leant forward giving the waiter behind Yuuki a very enticing look at her cleavage. As usual her distraction caused him to almost knock into another waiter standing behind him when he turned to leave. Luckily, Soujiro stabilized the man before a tray of drinks fell onto Yuuki.

Both Tsukushi and Yuuki shot her a warning glare.

In return, Sakurako shrugged her shoulders. she muttered under breath. Where's Rui, anyway? I'm starving, she asked trying to drive the attention away from her small slip.

He said he might be a little late. He was going to drop Kaya off at home.

Speaking of, he's just arrived.

They all turned to see Rui walking beside Shizuka. His arm rested behind her back leading her towards the table. An obvious glare was reflecting off of her hand from the large princess cut diamond on her finger. All in all, they made the picture perfect couple.

Soujiro stood up first and patted Rui on the back while giving Shizuka a chaste kiss on the cheek. I heard the news congratulations.

Thank you, she smiled.

A certain silent tension filled the table as Rui and Shizuka seated themselves. Everyone turned to Tsukushi wondering what her reaction to this sudden predicament would be. To their surprise, her temper was in check and a small smile was plastered on her face.

Hello, Shizuka, she curtly and politely said.

Her smile veiled her inner suspicion at the extended olive branch.

Well, why don't you order for us. I m in the mood to dance with a beautiful lady. Akira extended a hand out to Tsukushi, which she gratefully accepted.

She allowed herself to be swept away by her gallant knight. Actually he was more like the court jester, but close enough.

I think I've bought us some time from the awkwardness, he grinned while twirling her on the dance floor.

Tsukushi breathed a sigh of relief while sneaking a peek over her shoulder. From the looks of it, Sakurako was dragging Tsukasa onto the dance floor. You always pull through in the end, she laughed. So what do you really think about this whole thing? And don't give me any of that shit about trying to be adults about the whole thing. I want the real dirt.

She buried her face in his shoulder trying to suppress her own outburst of laughter. The truth?

he nodded.

I am wishing right now I could claw her eyes out for even agreeing to marry him. I would let him marry anyone else, but her. What am I to do? I can't stop him.

Well, it's his own loss for not seeing that he lost a great thing. He placed his cheek against the top of her head inhaling the light scent of her perfume. The guy who steals your heart away will be one lucky bastard. For now, let's make Rui eat his heart out for missing this. He dropped her into a low dip making her squeal in delight.

Across the dance floor Sakurako looked on with interest at Akira and Tsukushi's interaction. There was just something oddly unsettling about that look in Akira's eyes. Maybe it was just one of those rare occurrences or the influence of one two many glasses of wine. There was definitely something.

You can loosen up a little, she teased Tsukasa who appeared a little timid towards the idea of holding her any closer to him. His movements were rather wooden at the moment.

His muscles unclenched and he let himself relax a little bit more. He was a little rusty at dancing like this, but it was slowly coming back to him.

That's better. When you're not all confused and sulky, you're actually quite good looking. Did you know that?

Thanks I think. You don't look too bad yourself.

She smiled to herself seeing him open up a little more to her. Is that an actual compliment from you?! I am rather shocked.

Well, they're reserved for only a select few.

You're actually not such a bad guy, Tsukasa. You're a little rough around the edges, but deep down I can see you being a sweet guy.

He blushed at her compliment feeling a little awkward and unsure if what she was doing was coming onto him.

------------------------------------------

So, JiroWhat did you do today? Yuuki pleasantly asked trying to strike up conversation. They were the only tow left at the table now seeing as how the others had opted to forgo table small talk for dancing.

Nothing much, he curtly replied keeping his gaze away from hers.

A tiny idea popped into her head. Do you mind if I try some of your wine. You always have such good taste. Not even waiting for his reply she took the glass from his hand and touched her lips to the glass. The crimson liquid dripped into her slightly parted lips into her mouth. Her tongue lightly grazed the edge of the glass lapping up the sweet juice. As she slowly pulled the glass away, her lips ever so slightly puckered as she grazed her teeth over her bottom lip trying to catch the last few lingering drops. A small moan of contentment escaped her. She settled the glass back onto the table and a lazy smile curved onto her lips.

Soujiro's gaze had slowly moved from the glass in his hand to the said item touching Yuuki's supple lips. Her actions had left him a little more than shell-shocked. Since when did she drink wine like that?

The man was damn frustrating. Her little attempt to gain his attention had resulted in him looking more confused than ever. He really needed to buy a clue.

She pushed her chair back and nodded her head towards the dance floor. Dance with me? she asked in a pleading tone.

He obligingly followed her onto the dance floor and placed a hand on her hip while the other clasped her hand. Is it just me or doesn't this feel a little like old times? I mean when was the last time all of us have hung out together.

Not since Susumu, she sighed wistfully thinking back to a better time in their lives. She pulled him closer to her and rested her head on his chest. From underneath his shirt she could hear the faint, familiar sound of his heartbeat. It was almost lulling to listen to the light thumps of through his chest. You smell nice. Her hand on his shoulder reached up to run her fingertips through his hair. It was just as soft as it looked.

His body went rigid. Okay, something definitely wasn't right with what is going on? It almost felt like this woman wasn't Yuuki. In a way, he didn't like the way things were going.

You seem different?

I feel the same like I've always been. Maybe it's the new clothes and hair.

Maybe. I guess I'm not used to seeing you this way.

What? You don't like my new look?

No, no, no, he protested in fear of angering her twice in a row that week. He knew better than to offend a woman's appearance. It's nice.

Inside she was seething at the word .

Nice! What do you mean nice? I don't think $3000 of hair, makeup, and clothes constitutes to a simple answer of .

The answer to her questions hit her. If he was going to play that way, she was going to need to turn up the heat. She leaned her head up and whispered into his ear hoping to make her point clear. I'm anything, but nice, she huskily whispered.

-------------------------------

Tsukushi nudged Akira a little bit closer towards Yuuki and Soujiro wondering how her game of seduction was going. Based on that fleeting look of anger in her eyes and Soujiro's impenetrable mask, things weren't going too well. She couldn't believe that the wine glass trick didn't do anything to him. Hell, even Tsukushi couldn't help but feel a little turned on by it. Where did sweet, innocent Yuuki learn something like that? Jiro definitely must be going blind.

All she could do was look away at the disaster waiting to happen. Perhaps her little secret weapon would come in more useful than she expected. It was a rather sneaky, but could be quite effective. Those four just needed a little extra push. She would leave him so emotionally confused that he won't know what hits him when he realizes the truth.

What is that look on your face?

Oh nothing, she smiled.

She looked around at the others in the room smiling to herself. This would be very interesting indeed. There is one basic rule of mating for all animals. When threatened, it's all a matter of establishing dominance.

--------------------------

A/N: Thus concludes another installment of Last Resort. I'm having more and more trouble getting these chapters written. They just seem to drag on and on sometimes, but still quite enjoyable to see what new ideas spring up along the way. Life takes precedence over fanfics like always. Prolly not another chapter will be out for this fic for a month. I have to regroup and try to figure out the next direction I will take in this story. It doesn't help much either that I've become hooked to writing my very first Rurouni Kenshin fic, Daughter of Eve. Once I get an idea I can't stop thinking about it. If anyone out there likes some good RK check it out. Review, review, review!


Now I take a brief interlude to write a little not of thanks to my reviewers:

Aaawww Nothing makes this poor girl happier than a nice long review from you guys. It's nice to be appreciated for something my friends and family call my insanity. If anyone asks, I do not write fanfics while I'm on my laptop. I'm just typing up a research paper. I don't consider myself a very good writer, then again I always think that others are way better. Honestly, I stopped writing completely about four years ago when I was in high school. Let's just say that a certain creative writing teacher I had in high school who is a published author herself thought my ideas and writing were mediocre and trite. I think there is nothing worse than having someone nitpick over every line, verse, and plotline you write. I call it literature homicide. That'll really kill one's aspirations to write anything. So, after taking a long break I decided to write fanfics thinking Hey, I could do that too. I found something that I loved once again and it only made my days better knowing that someone actually enjoyed the stuff I wrote. So, from the bottom of my heart I thank you all and I hope that I can continue to live up to your expectations of writing something memorable and decent.