a.n. Here you go folks, third update this month.
chapter 23
They were all seated in main floor lobby.
"Here you go…this is the estimated net cost." Ichijo handed Kaname the bill, which the latter gracefully accepted. "They said it would take about seven to ten days for the renovation to be fully completed." He informed and waited for further instructions. After all they have to make fast arrangements. Otherwise the regal dorm president will become room-less. At the moment his room is a complete mess, full of rubble and in fully un-livable condition. The constructions starts tomorrow early morning. So by tonight a temporary place has to arranged for the next two weeks. However there was one little problem. Currently there are no available bedrooms in the moon-dorm. They have plenty of spares room, but those were being used as storage. In order to convert one of them into a place of accommodation would at least take about two days.
Takuma actually has the perfect place in mind and he's pretty sure his friend would love nothing more. Given what has happened it's probably best if Kaname resided elsewhere, away from the moon dorm. Till now no one is sure of what caused such intense wrath but vice president assumes it's because of Aiyora drinking Senri's blood. If that is indeed the case then it's best for Kaname to be away for some time. Perhaps living close to Yuuki for sometime will clear his head.
"…So where do you plan to stay until then?" the blonde asked, fully ready to suggest his brilliant idea. "I'm sure you're aware we don't have any available bedrooms here. Unless you want to occupy a couch in the lobby here I suggest yo-"
"Kaname-sama can stay in my room!" Aidou interrupted. He not only rudely cut off the vice president but also poured water over his perfectly setup plan. "He can sleep on the bed and I shall sleep on the floor."
Everyone present there had their eyes set on him – Akatsuki, Ruka, Senri, Rima and Seiran who was standing behind the couch her was seated. The only two who didn't bother were Kaname and Aiyora. The former was sipping tea and the latter was surfing on her phone. Takuma also beamed him a kind smile. But that was the face he put up outside, while on the inside he was fully ready to punch the blue eyed blonde and knock his teeth out.
"That's very considerate of you Aidou. But no thanks."
Once the brunette declined, clearing his throat the vice president picked up from where he left off.
"… As I was saying…why don't you move into the chairman's guest house. I'm sure he would be delighted-"
"There's no need for that either… It's only a matter of fortnight. Till the I can stay with Aiyora..." he teasingly asked for her permission. "...right?"
Aiyora, who was on her phone all this time fell from the sky.
Everyone now danced their faced between the two purebloods. Ruka visibly stiffed, Akatsuki looked at her (Ruka) concerned. Shiki gulped uncomfortably, Rima took notice of that. Hanabusa was still recovering from the rejection. Seiran just stood there expressionless. And Takuma was baffled. He blinked a couple times to register, then gave his friend bewildered look before focusing on Aiyora.
"But I only have one bed! And it's too small for two people." She was fully against the idea and made no attempt to hide it.
"Not that it matters, but your bed is queen size." Kaname pointed out, catching her red handed with excuses.
"Well… I sleep like this," she spread her arms and legs in four different direction like a starfish. "So it takes up all the space."
All eyes just blinked. No one said anything. Everyone just continued to look at her dumbfounded. Making her retreat, realizing how un-lady like position she was in and how comedic she must have looked.
"I'll sleep on the couch." Kaname pressed.
"I snore, really loud." Who said Aiyora was going down that fast.
"I'll adjust." But in the end only one could win. Sadly, this time it was not her.
He did not feel the need to take too much stuff. It was a matter of two weeks and these fifteen days would pass within the blink of an eye.
Earlier Seiran had dropped off a pillow, a blanket and few sets of clothes and toiletries. Oh and of course his chess-set. Upon return she informed, how upset Aiyora was about whole this arrangement. Initially the young pureblood just sat there with a scowl on her face but at one point started to interfere and even interject when a small portion of her closet was taken, in order to fit his clothes.
Kaname did not give out any opinion regarding these childish behavior of his fiancée. But he did chuckle, and Seiran noticed the way he did. And for some odd reason she dared to think that he appeared happy. However she did not ponder much on that. Her job was to serve him, not poke nose in his personal life.
Once Seiran left, the pureblood picked the final piece of book that he intended to take and strangely he chose a love-story. Usually such genres were not the type he opted for. But recently he was in mood for one.
After having everything in hand, the Kuran prince walked towards the large mirror placed inside his bathroom and did something that he has never done before – he examined his appearance! Kuran Kaname wasn't someone who worried about his looks. He's a pureblood! He's born with handsome features. But for some reason today he felt the need to check and see if he looked okay, or at least decent…
It was the hour of late afternoon when Kaname finally moved into his new residence. Just to be on the safe side he knocked on the door and waited for permission prior to entering. He did not walk in and catch Aiyora in any form of compromising position. It would defeat the whole purpose and make things between them awkward.
"Make yourself comfortable." That was her first line to him. However her tone was unwelcoming and bitter. But Kaname chose to ignore that, but in the back of his mind he kept wondering why she was acting such way. When it was him who was clearly mad.
"Let me make this clear..." he was about to put his books down but stopped as she spoke up. "You maybe the dorm president but this is my room, my domain… and in order for you to stay here you must abide by my rules."
Shocked! Surprised! Astonished! Amused!
These were all the expression on Kuran Kaname's face in that moment. No one has ever dared to use that tone with him. Not even Ichio when he was residing at the Ichijo residence. The latter may not have liked him but always made sure to maintain his manners and curtsy. And this little girl has the audacity to tell him that he (who isn't just her older brother, but her fiancé, and her ancestor) must abide by her rules. If only she knew that her biological father is his master, she'd probably put a leash on him and treat him like a pet dog.
"Don't worry," he assured looking out of the window, keeping his distant focus on the setting sun. He opened his mouth as he left his sentence unfinished but she beat him to it.
"Oh by the way onii-sama…" her hand reached out and gently touched his arm. The small action grabbed his attention, and just as he turned she said in a voice that was innocent and childlike but the grin that followed was of pure evil.
"Good Luck with the adjustments!"
And with that said she happily danced her way toward the bed and threw herself on it without a care in the world. This would be fun.
Kaname on the other hand let out a tired sigh and ran a hand through his hair. Suddenly he had a bad feeling. Maybe it would have been best to listen to Ichijou and move into the headmaster's quarter.
Obviously there was an agenda behind this arrangement. He needed to be close to Aiyora.
And the latter on the other hand, had plan of her own. Just the way Kaname was working his way into closing the gap between them, the same way she was trying to widen the gap. She had no desire to be close or friendly with him till the Yuuki puzzle is solved.
The first couple of days of their staying together was quite blissful. Aiyora simply ignored him, but made sure to do so in the most civil manner possible. She stayed clear off of his path and kept herself busy with studies, developing her powers and working on her hobbies such as baking, nurturing her plants etc.
However Kaname's plan clashed with her – he refused to leave her alone.
When she wanted space, he tried to come up with various ways to make conversation. Like this morning for instance, he wouldn't stop talking about what happened in class last night. How the day class humans are getting bolder and shameless day by day, how hard the disciplinary committee have been working to keep them at bay... and so on.
Aiyora rolled her eyes most of the time. Like she was even interested...!? She didn't even ask him anything. He just started speaking on his own terms.
"Sorry… I must have been boring you." He said taking off his uniform jacket and neatly placing it over the couch.
"It's fine." She assured, without pausing in her essay.
"You know…" he took cautious steps toward her, not long before climbing onto the bed to lay down beside her "…you're the only one with whom I can speak with such ease." Aiyora silently continued with her work, she did not want to make engage in this conversation. "…I can pour my heart out, reveal my emotions, my fear, my anxiety...only to you."
Sure whatever! She could not stop herself from rolling those blue eyes. If that is the case how come you never talk about Yuuki or your connection with her…?
"Have you eaten something?...let's eat together, I'm starving." he placed a hand beneath her chin and lifted her face up in order to make eye contact. Due to her lack of interest in prior topic he decided to change.
"…Um… actually I just ate. I'm sorry... I would have waited, if I had known." As if! That part remained unsaid though.
"That's alright, don't apologize for something so little." He petted her head before leaving the bed and headed to the bathroom to change. Afterwards went straight to bed. That action took Aiyora by surprise. As earlier he claimed to be starving and now just headed to bed. However she didn't dwell on that for much longer. He's a grown man, it's not like he'll die for just skipping a night's meal.
That day may have ended normally but the ones followed by seemed strange and creepy…
Aiyora was sitting before her dresser, drying her hair with a blow dryer. For the most part her focus remained on her hair. But that shifted as she suddenly felt a dark presence; and just as she looked through the mirror – Kaname was standing behind her! The proximity was so close that she felt the heat radiating off of his body. Her senses picked up an ominous feeling. Out of the blue she felt suffocated. Something was not right. She watched him carefully, their eyes met– no wait! Their gaze did not meet, because those wine orbs were focused on one spot only… her neck.
And then… he gulped.
Right away Aiyora's heart came to a halt only to drum out seconds later. She quickly put the hair drying machine down and stood up abruptly.
"I just remembered I have to retrieve a book from Aidou-kun. I'll be back quick." She said before quickly excusing herself out of there; with no intention of returning anytime soon.
.
.
.
Another time, once again Aiyora was on the bed studying.
Usually she isn't that studious. However since Kaname moved in, she was left with little to do, so studying was the best way to kill time. Sure she could watch television, but that would disturb him. Therefore Aiyora decided to be a little considerate and adjust herself for two weeks.
She was about to turn the page when a brush of icy cold fingers made contact with her neck. She stopped and shot her head up. Kaname smiled, and shiver ran down her spine.
"You need something?" Aiyora tried to put up the brave upfront. He had a bizarre fascination with her hair. Every chance he got he'd touch them, pull them, style them, play with them. It got to a point where she thought about chopping them off and gifting it to him, since he liked them so much.
"Onii-sama…? Do you need something?"
"I need you." his tone was weirdly flirty.
"Well in that case wait till I'm finished." With that said, she carefully pushed his hand away from her neck and moved out of his reach.
The look on his face changed. He looked hurt. But Aiyora careless about that. She had other things to worry about such as: when did the neck replace the hair? Because this is his third time doing it.
First time being four days back. The night class was in session and it was his turn to stay back. She was in the kitchen, baking. He joined her and offered to help. She declined the offer and they conversed for sometime; till suddenly his hand reached out to play with her hair but then switched gear and moved to her neck. Aiyora tried not to put much thought into it, but then his thumb pressed hard against her throbbing pulse… feeling it from deep inside.
Second time was two days ago. She was seated on the floor, over the plush rug placed right in front of the bed, watching television. At first he was in class and upon return, he changed and joined her. Instead of sitting beside her he lay down, resting his head on her lap. Aiyora said nothing to that, she let him be and continued to watch her movie. He spoke a little, telling her about how his day went, what happened in class and during switchover. And then, his hand was once again on her neck. This time feeling the length of it while listening to the sound of the blood streaming underneath the delicate skin. Aiyora froze, probably the most natural effect of the moment. But she was quick to gain her composure. Then threw him a threating glare. But that seemed to have little effect. Because next she felt his entire palm circle around her neck and hold her in firm hold. For a nanosecond his eyes even glowed red. And before the situation could further proceed he pulled back and exited the room telling her that he was going out for some fresh air.
And now… the third time.
There's a saying: once an accident, twice a coincidence but thrice… that's a pattern.
Now she knows, being nice was a mistake. Although she threatened him at the beginning to make his stay unpleasant but considering situation she gave it a second thought and decided to play nice. If only she knew back then that this is how it would be repaid… in any case, it's time to get rid off him.
So she decided to put her plan into action. Did everything to make his stay as uncomfortable as possible.
She started off by watching the television on loud volume, especially when he was working. At first Kaname protested and demanded she turned that off. Aiyora however politely reminded him that he was in her territory. This was her room, thus only her rules applied.
Once he adjusted the loud noise of the television she switched to vulgar movies. The older Kuran was very conservative, it was bound to effect him. Aiyora loved to watch him cringe at moan-groans of the actors. Like last time at the Shiki manor, this time also he came close to blowing the television off. But she stopped him, reminding him once again that he was in her room. Kaname tried to reason, telling her to watch something appropriate of her age. But she continued her way. So he stopped with the protest and sat down to watch with her. In hopes that it would embarrass her but instead he ended up the one being embarrassed.
After overcoming the television situation Kaname was faced with another problem – sunlight.
Suddenly Aiyora decided to sleep keeping the drapes and curtains open in broad daylight. Her bed was far away from the window, so it possessed no problem for her. But the couch Kaname was occupying, was placed directly in front of the window. Leaving him with two option; move somewhere else or sleep covering his entire form with a thick blanket. He chose the latter and slept covering himself from head to toe. Even when the former choice was so much easier and simpler.
He understood very well Aiyora was doing all that to make him leave. Actually at a point he did think about leaving and spend the remaining days at one of Kaien Cross's guest room, be near Yuuki… his Yuuki! He came close to packing his belongings but then,
"Are you going somewhere…? Onii-sama…?" Aiyora came from behind and wondered in a tone of mockery. But little did she know, she made one big mistake! A wrong calculation of the proximity and stood close, so close that her tantalizing scent moved him. The same way north pole of the magnet pull the south pull of the magnet.
"No where." He replied turning to face her fully. "I was just merely cleaning the closet." Just as he turned the first things noticed were lips. So red, so plush yet so small… so beautiful.
Decision was made then and there. She could try with all her might but he's not going anywhere.
Over the next few day he watched her… more than he should have. Her physical attributes have etched into his mind. He now knows more than he should.
She's suppose to be bargain-chip to use against Kuran Rido so what was the point in noticing those big, bold, expressive eye. Generally people have pink lips but her was on the redder side. She had elongated neck, with delicate but razor sharp collarbone to further add to its aesthetic. Her form is dangerously thin, so thin that he could see her chest bone and count them instead of having a peek of cleavage every time she wore something with lower neck. However the lack of breast in her body have compensated with lower of her back... beautifully sculptured. No he was not that type of a male to look at a woman that way… but the skin tight pants she wore at times, the vision itself enslaved his gaze. Naturally with such slender body came beautiful thin legs… Kaname even dared to imagine how it would feel to have them wrapped around his hips…or crossed over his back.
" –your turn Kaname." Hearing his name the brunette snapped, like he just fell from the sky. He had to think for a moment as to what the blonde was doing here, in front of him.
"My turn?" he asked, slightly confused.
He noted how the blonde shared a glance with Aiyora before both looked at him in strange gaze. And she was the one who pointed her finger at the chessboard placed between them.
"If you take this long to think, the game will not end before next morning."
Suddenly it all came back. He invited Ichijou for a friendly match and Aiyora joined them as an audience. But why was she sitting closer to him…? When she should be by his side!
The town was packed. People scurried along the streets.
Takuma was among them, walking along the side of the road. Half his face was cover with the thick scarf wrapped around his collar and his hands remained shoved inside his coat-pocket. That left only a little bit of his face exposed to the sunlight. In far distance he could see the silhouette of Cross Academy standing proud and tall. He realized that he almost made it back.
The limousine of the Ichijou family was still following closely behind. The chauffer pleaded him multiple times to get back in but he did not, he preferred to walk instead. The passing by breeze was cooling him down. Last evening his grandfather summoned him over the phone. It sounded urgent so he left right away after class. But once there he soon realized that grandfather simply called him to give ill-advice. They had breakfast together this morning and conversation that took place that time disturbed him deeply. This was precisely why he needed this walk at the moment.
Ichijou Mansion, dinning room:
"How are the Kurans?" Ichio asked his grandson, while a maid continued to pour his tea.
"They're doing quite alright." Takuma was well aware to choose his words carefully. He paused to take bite of his toast "They're civil and getting along quite well recently, in fact Kaname is quite protective of her now-a-days."
"Is that so…" the older vampire mused, the information he just received is vital. "And what about Aiyora-sama…? Is this feeling of protectiveness mutual?"
"Of course! She is quite smitten by Kaname. They have move past everything and started a fresh."
Ichio was about to take a sip of his tea, but paused and threw his grandson a skeptical stare. "…Are you sure? Or should I assume that you're intentionally hiding something."
"Are you doubting me grandfather?"
"Yes I am, because I spoke to her recently over the phone and I asked her the same question. …However, her answer does not match yours."
Takuma grew a little worried at that information. Aiyora spoke to his grandfather! How often did they speak? Was this a regular custom? How come she never mentioned anything? Is Kaname aware?
"You may relax your face Takuma. I have the girl's best interest. After all she is the daughter of Kuran Rido, an alley to the council."
"Aiyora is great person. She is hardworking, kind hearted, honest, true to her feelings and emotional person. And of course utterly beautiful." Takuma praised her.
"Keeping these reasons in mind you must approach her." Ichio slyly dropped the suggestion to his grandson. Getting him all confused.
"I don't understand, what are you saying…? I'm a big brother to her and she is a sister to me."
"There is nothing wrong starting off with sibling like affection. But with time that has to change. Moreover she a pureblood, for her mating a sibling would be a normal custom."
"Grandfather what are you saying!" Exclaimed Takuma putting his spoon down firmly.
"Listen to me very carefully Takuma. You must approach Aiyora-sama and make her yours before someone else does."
"But she Kaname's-"
"Kuran Kaname will not be able to make her the legal wife. Somebody is already born with that title." He added the last part with a sly smirk. And noted how his grandson's form visibly stiffed.
Fear coursed through young Ichijou's veins. How did his grandfather learn about Yuuki's existence. Nobody is suppose to know about her.
"An official announcement was never made, but the speculations started way back, especially when Kuran Haruka got Aiyora-sama engaged to the son of Shiki family, instead of his own. …Telll me, which fool would do something like? She was no outsider, but his older brother's flesh and blood. And in order to keep the purity of their clan there were no better candidate for Kaname-sama than her… unless Kuran Haruka had a daughter of his own."
Takuma tried to keep his face impassive. Worried that the slightest emotion might give away some form of crucial information.
"So what is your plan? To find out the daughter of Kuran Haruka…?"
"Not really," That reply assured the younger blonde. "...even if that girl exists, she's of no value or interest to me, as long as Kuran Aiyora is there."
"What makes Aiyora so special?" Takuma asked, curious. Maybe this would shed some light on the changes that Kaname had over the years.
"You see Takuma, Kuran Aiyora not just a pureblood of the Kuran family. The blood of Hanadagi family also runs inside her. Due to their custom of intermarriage, such kind of purebloods – the ones with two bloodlines are rarely born. And even if they're born it's due to liaisons. So to evade such conflicts those children are killed off right after birth or in some case inside the mother's womb. So far Kuran Aiyora is the only one that managed to survive this far. …And if I may add the main reason why Kuran Rido and Hio Shizuka were engaged was so that such experiment could be carried out legally. But he ended up having that child with the last remaining daughter of the Hanadagi family. …So you see Kuran Aiyora is an asset that you must obtain for yourself, not leave it for Kuran Kaname or Shiki Senri."
He opened his eyes, revealing those emerald green orbs after releasing a tired sigh. Grandfather was asking for too much. He cannot and must not pursue Aiyora in such fashion. She sees him like a brother. If she ever learns about this, it will not only break her heart but also destroy their beautiful friendship, forever!
At the given moment the only feeling he found himself feeling for Aiyora is pity. An aristocrat pitying a pureblood… how ironic! That poor girl is very lonely in this vast world. Despite being the flesh and blood of two powerful families there is no one for her. Everyone around just wants to use her for their own gain. Be it his grandfather… Shiki Sayatohi… or even Kaname… they are all the same. Senri being the exception, to him she means everything. Sadly that boy is powerless before those big wolves. But Kaname isn't… the thought sudden rang. If only he cared though– speaking of which… what is going on with him?
Takuma could not shake away the feeling that weighted his heart down.
These days Kaname was not his usual self. Something was very off about him. His thirst has past beyond the point of return. It has increased so much that it's making him act out of character. He caused all that havoc because Aiyora drank Senri's blood. Even though he did not confront either party directly but measure were taken for sure.
Out of the blue Senri is bombarded with new assignments. His schedule is completely packed for the next two month. That cannot be just a coincidence …impossible!
Then for the two weeks of renovation, Kaname could have easily stayed at the headmaster's guest quarter. That would have given him more chance to see Yuuki. But no, he stubbornly moved himself to Aiyora's room…even when she was unwelcoming.
And since the move, he's been even more strange…
The other day when Takuma went to drop off Aiyora's student file, he found the brunette longingly watch his younger sister through one of the windows of the hallways. As she trained with Aidou, at the forest entrance.
Another time, in the afternoon he peeked into Aiyora's room through the key hole, only to find Kaname watching her with glowing thirsty eyes… as she slept vulnerably.
And soon enough the pureblood promoted himself from just watching to touching. Often his hand would reach out to caress her neck. Whilst his consumption of blood tablet peaked parallelly. First increased frequency, then quantity.
Then one day he made the daring move.
Takuma witnessed the incident from far.
Both were on the terrace. Aiyora was watering her pet plant and Kaname was leaning against the wall… watching her. But then suddenly he came from behind and wrapped her up in a tight embrace burring his face at crook of her neck. The first few seconds Aiyora stood still as a statue. Then she started to struggle, and after breaking free, she turned gave and him a violent push, slamming her palms against his chest.
Fear grew inside the vice president, as the realization hit him that moment – the situation was getting out of hand for Kaname. As for Aiyora her life's at stake.
…Also since that day, Aiyora started to wear turtleneck top religiously.
Yuuki was having dinner with her father that night. She wanted to bring along Zero as well but the latter ditched her mid-way and went to the stables instead.
At the dinner table the chairman did most of the talking. He asked her about how she was, how were the duties coming along? Whether Zero was skipping out too much? Or did she feel pressured? Yuuki answered them with honesty. However the headmaster's constant flow of questions seizing her chance...
Even if she would never admit but tonight Yuuki did not just come to have dinner with her adoptive father. She is here because she wanted to inquire about certain someone... Kaname.
Her favorite sempai has been missing his classes quite often lately. Not that she just missed seeing him at the switchover, she was worried about him too. There were times when she had the urge to ask the night class but knew very well her concerns would not be appreciated. So she picked the chairman. As chances are higher that he would know as much as the night class members would.
But for some reason, she felt nervous and it only added colour to her already flushed face. And it wasn't long before the headmaster noticed.
"Is everything alright Yuuki?" his voice came out serious although the goofiness remained.
"Why would you ask that?" she grew more nervous.
"Because you look worried."
Am i that easy to read? she wondered sadly.
"Is it Zero that you're worried about?" she nodded her head no. "Then what is it?"
She thought about a moment before sharing "... actually I've been wondering if things are okay with Kaname-sempai-" before she could finish the door bell rang and distracted her. Yuuki was about to get up but her adoptive father urged her to continue eating and instead he went to check on the door.
"Good evening Kaname-kun..." Yuuki's heart leaped in excitement the moment the vampire's voice reached her ear. She put her chopstick down and rushed to the nearest mirror to check up on her appearance. She knew look wise she will never match him, he's a vampire after all, born with unnatural beauty. Still, she wanted to look decent, not like a farmer walking out of the farm after cultivation.
After the check she returned to the table and waited. Excitement swelling up her heart.
Several minutes passed, they were still at the door.
The minute hand of the clock continued to run and so as their conversation.
"oh yes... absolutely I will start the process soon... you make all the arrangements from your end and leave the rest up to me. She will be enrolled by next week."
Yuuki grew a bit impatient. The entire conversation was taking place at the door. Would the headmaster not bring him in? She got up, to see what was going on.
"Yes I have sorted out all the papers and regarding a guardian signature I will have to sign them. Changes at the council have been approved long ago — Good evening Yuuki." Kaname diverted his attention after a mere sight.
"Good evening Kaname-sempai." she tried to get a grip over the heat flaring up her cheeks but it wasn't really working.
"How are you this evening?" He asked in a smooth voice. Conversation with the Chairman was on hold for now.
"I'm quite alright... um... how have you been?"
Before Kaname could answer the chairman interjected. "Oh where are my manners! Kaname-kun please come in, have dinner with us. I've cooked plenty there is more than enough for all."
"That is very kind of you chairman, but I'm afraid I am unable to accept your invitation at the moment. The night class is still in session and she is all by herself. I was just here to drop the file."
"Bring her in then! I would love to meet her."
"For sure, but some other time."
"Alright then, you have a good night Kaname-kun. It was nice seeing you." Seeing that the pureblood had no interest in coming in Cross bid him farewell.
"Same here." Kaname bid farewell to the chairman and focused his attention on the girl standing few feet behind. "Good night Yuuki, take care."
"You as well." she said with a slight bow of respect and watched as her adoptive father shut the door behind Kaname's already turned back form.
"Let's go eat Yuuki..."
She could not bring herself to respond. Suddenly her appetites gone. She was really hoping for him to join them.
Few days later:
Fuck my life! Aiyora cursed.
From the comfort of her bed she watched Kaname as he emptied out a case of blood tablet. He did not even mix them in water, just directly threw them into his mouth and swallowed.
Four more days to go. Aiyora reminded herself. She was already counting days and couldn't wait for him to move back.
The female pureblood pulled the comforter over, covering all the way up to her nose this time. Only leaving from the eyes onwards open. Just to be on the safe side. She doesn't want to see a repeat episode of that day, the day he came pretty close…
Flashback:
Aiyora was in the terrace, watering her collection of plants. Her heightened senses alarmed as it sensed an intruder, but soon calmed down at the essence of familiarity. After all what would Kaname do? At most he would watch her like a creep for sometime or so she thought… her first mistake.
So without a hesitation she let her guard down she continued on with the task in hand – her second mistake. Her third mistake was to ignore the intuition; even when he started to get closer and fill up the gap between their bodies. His chest touched her back, yet she thought it was nothing. His arms snaked around her waist, she continued to ignore. His hold her on her turned rigid. His breathing pattern changed, each inhale deep and exhale shaky. The air he breathed out was hot. So hot that she felt her skin burn each time it brushed against those exposed areas. Her fourth mistake was to keep her lips sealed as his face slowly buried somewhere at the back of her head into her hair.
"Look onii-sama, it has grown so much. It's that baby cactus you gave me when you first brought me here." She tried to make conversation, hoping it would work as a form of distraction. That was her fifth and ultimate mistake.
Because right after she felt him move. Now his face was around her temple nuzzling the area. He sighed her name but the rest of his word were incoherent. Before her mind could grasp what he said, his face move again and this time settled directly at the crook of her neck. His lips kissing her throbbing pulse.
The watering pot from her hand fell and spilled water on the floor. But neither of them cared about the pot or the water that spilled.
Her eyes went wide as saucer when his tongue darted out and licked along the length of her neck. He paused to nip at a certain spot.
"Onii-sama, stop!" She tried to break free. But the more she struggled the tighter his grip got. Like he came prepared.
"Stop!" he did not or rather could not respond.
For Aiyora, her survival mode kicked in. She used her powers and momentarily his grip loosened. And using that opportunity she ultimately managed to break free…
She shuddered at that awful memory.
Kaname has apologized for his action the very same day. After close to an hour of explanation for his action and pleading Aiyora finally accepted his apology. However that doesn't mean thing could go back to the way it was. She set some rules and divided the room marking each of their territory. Also since then turtle neck tops became mandatory part of her wardrobe. She may have looked like an imbecile wearing such kind of top during the summer time but still it was better to be safe than be sorry.
Her eyes cast him another look. He was laying down, eyes closed, eyebrows closely knitted –the only sign of discomfort he displayed.
"Are you alright?" she asked, concerned. But that concern wasn't for him. She was worried about herself. It was just yesterday that she woke up to find him sitting at the edge of her bed. When she demanded what he was doing? In response he said that being close to her soothed him down. Aiyora had no idea what that meant nor did she have any desire to find out.
"I'm fine." He finally answered. But he lied and even Aiyora understood that. His voice was raspy; he was anything but fine.
"If you are that thirsty please find yourself someone. I'm sure many would love to volunteer." Of course that was her way of hinting him to go to Ruka. Like he did earlier when the night class was first established.
His eyes opened only to glare at her. But she could care less. Being terrified and feeling unsafe in your own room was no pleasant feeling. Every moment in here with him Aioyra has been living in fear. By now she was getting sick of it.
He has been showing signs of intense blood lust for a while now. She acted oblivious at first for safety but now it's getting out of hand. At the rate he's going soon there will be scarcity of tablets in the moon-dorm. It is recommended to use two tablets for a glass of water to a maximum of four tablets. But he was finishing half the case (around ten to twelve tablets) in one go. Recently he didn't even put them in water, rather directly inside his mouth.
Just fucking go to Ruka! Aiyora wanted to suggest. The aristocrat would surely comply. There's no way she would brush off an opportunity to be this intimate with the man she adored. As this will bring her the chance to be in his arms again.
The young pureblood gave the matter a calculative thought. Why was he not going to Ruka? He did that time, so what's holding him back now. Perhaps he knows that her blood won't curb his thirst anymore. Maybe the only blood that will work now is the blood of Cross Yuuki.
Then why not bite Yuuki?
If biting her is the solution to all the problem then what is he waiting for? Sure, she'll turn into a vampire. But how's that bad? It's better than being a human and withering away so soon. Turing into a vampire will give her longer flow of life. Besides Kaname cares for her, he won't allow her to fall into same fate as Kisaragi Fuuka. He'll feed her his blood and turn her into a stable level-C, a low but decent ranked vampire, like Seiran. And just the way Seiran has been serving as his secretary, Yuuki could serve him as a lover. In conclusion it'll not only bring solution to his blood thirst but also sate his physical hunger.
Kaname onii-sama… you're very stupid. That was the young Kuran's last thought before her closed down losing it's battle against sleep.
.
.
.
The smooth sound of her breathing confirmed Kaname that she fell asleep. He reopened his eyes revealing those glowing crimson orbs. And with that burning eyes he watched her, in a gaze full of envy. His throat is dry… his fangs aching… his body burning… his mind losing marching towards insanity… and she is sleeping! That too without a care in the world. How dare she!
He left the couch, furious. Taking slow steps towards sleeping girl.
She caused this insanity… so she must be held accountable… therefore she must pay by allowing him to devour her… every bit of her!
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.
.
A horrible nightmare woke Takuma up. He turned and found the bed beside him still empty. The Shiki heir still hasn't returned.
He felt his throat go dry in fear. In that nightmare he saw blood, too much blood.
He wanted to drink a glass of water before resuming back to slumber but as fate would have it, the beaker on the beside table was empty. Leaving him no choice but to head out for the kitchen.
As he walked along the dark hallways an unpleasant feeling washed over him. His mind started to ponder about the dark dream that woke him up. And then his footsteps came to a halt, before it changed direction.
He rushed towards Aiyora room, praying desperately for his intuition to turn wrong. But sadly it wasn't… because upon reaching his destination he was greeted to the sight of…
"KANAME NO!"
The brunette was only moments away from sinking his fangs into the neck of his sleeping sister.
.
.
.
"...ORA!"
"AIYORA!"
"WAKE UP AIYORA! QUICK…"
"… I WON'T BE ABLE TO HOLD HIM FOR LONG."
"WAKE UP FAST!"
Aiyora shot her eyes open and on reflex almost immediately sat upright.
Although she woke up physically, her brain was still in the process of awakening. Which was why she looked confused. The sight in front made no sense. She could not understand why Ichijou was holding Kaname back. Or how he got into her in the first place.
"What is hap-" she got cut off before she could ask.
"Kaname you don't want to do this. You don't want to hurt her..." Takuma tried to reason with Kaname, who just stood there with his eyes shut, head facing down and both hands balled to fist so tight that his knuckles turned white.
Finally she understood, but at the same time the realization brought fear that froze her on the spot.
"DON'T JUST SIT THERE AIYORA-CHAN, RUN! RUN AWAY FROM HERE!" Takuma yelled.
It was as if the blonde vampire's scream snapped her out of the trance. Her body regained it's consciousness and within the next second in a swift motion she got off the bed and ran towards the door.
Takuma tightened his hold on Kaname desperately hoping that he would be able to hold him off till Aiyora made it out of the room. His frightened eyes then moved towards the door to see if Aiyora was able to get out but-
"WHAT ARE YOU DOING? GET OUT!" He screamed, when he found her standing still, right before the door.
Questions like 'why was she still here?' and 'what was holding her back from opening the door and running out?' flooded his mind. Initially he suspected the older pureblood off using his power and holding her back but soon realized, no, in fact Kaname was also giving her a chance to flee.
Her grip on the doorknob remained firm. All she have to do now is twist it right, open the door and run.
She heard Ichijou's voice in the background telling her not to waste time and leave quickly. At first that exactly what she planned to do, but stopped…
What's the point? Reality is, she won't make it far. She might escape his grasp today, but what guarantee is there that she will be lucky tomorrow, or the day after, or perhaps next week? Today Ichijou ran in to save her but tomorrow he might not be there. Besides, he won't be able to stop Kaname. He is no match against the latter. By doing what he just did, the blonde has put himself and their friendship at stake. The problem is between her and Kaname. Others should not be getting involved and get hurt for no reason.
Her hand let go off the doorknob moments before she turned back and faced them. This time no longer afraid. As a matter of fact her heart felt braver, face showed confidence, eyes determined and ready to fight.
"WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING!?" Ichijou exclaimed, when Aiyora started to walked back towards them.
"Please leave us." Her eyes flashed red as she unleashed her command.
Takuma's hold on Kaname broke apart. Moments later, automatically he was taking steps back from the brunette. Kaname also opened his eyes and looked at her… his bloodlust concealed his shocked. He expected Aiyora to run, in fact he was giving her the chance to do so.
"Leave."
Ichijou's feet worked accordingly. It started to move towards the exit. He shot her one last look of concern before walking past her and exiting out of the room.
The purebloods gazed at each other, their glowing red eyes clashing. Both maintained the dignified silence till the door shut and the vice president's footsteps faded away.
Aiyora made the first move. She slowly approached him. Her hands reached out and entwined with his.
He quietly followed her lead as guided him towards the bed. Their eye contact not breaking for once.
He sat down in straight posture while she stood before him in utmost confidence. Kaname felt his heart rate go up and he was not completely sure what was the actual cause of it. Was it her scent? Or perhaps those glowing red eyes…? But how come? Didn't he always find such sight repulsive…? So why was he feeling almost hypnotized by these red eyes?
Her fingers reached the hem of the turtleneck t-shirt she had on… Slowly and carefully she took the top off… all the while keeping their eye contact intact.
It was Kaname's turn to have his eyes go wide, he could no longer conceal the surprise.
She discarded the item without a care. And she stood before him only in her bra and sleepwear-shorts. Unknowingly he gulped. His body grew rigid as she climbed up and settled herself on his lap. One of her hand went around and gathered her hair to one side revealing a portion of her neck.
"Go on… drink to your heart's content."
Kaname had no intention to turn the invitation down. So he laid down on the bed and pulled her along, then turned over, now putting her beneath him and slowly closed the gap between his face her neck.
Aiyora remained calm. Her heart was beating fast yet her face showed no ounce of fear. For the second time she felt his tongue licking along the length of her neck, his fangs scraping along gently. She heard the sound of his mouth widening, all set to bite down…
"Oh by the way, just so you know… each gulp my blood is going to cost you three gulp of Yuuki's blood." She slipped the information casually.
Kaname froze. His eyes turned back to it's usual hue. He rose his head and stared her down with eyes that demanded an explanation for the statement she just made.
"You take one gulp of my blood and I shall take three gulp from her in return…" she proceeded to elaborate. "…for two, six. For three, nine. For four, twelve and so on…"
For the first time his face showed fear with the only concern in his mind being…
How did she know about Yuuki?
a.n. Thank you all for reading. hope you guys enjoyed. feel free to share your thoughts.
