"Wish I'd met you at another place in time, if only, if only you were mine, this love story ends for you and I, cos I'm already someone else's..'' - 'Baby' by Clean Bandit.
A/N: I know y'all ain't ready for this.. but I'ma give it to you anyway.
THEE longest chapter to date so I hope you have snacks.
As always, thank you so much for those that have fave'd and reviewed.
Enjoy.
K~
Chapter 5. Dirty
Spraying his cologne on both sides of his neck, Kai finished off getting ready for the Bladebreaker meet up in the large bedroom mirror.
He'd only returned to the house two nights ago having been staying at a nearby hotel for the past couple of days, his black holdall still by his wardrobe on the carpeted floor.
Having made his future plans known to his not so secret admirer that day of the argument, Kai ended up switching his phone off. As far as he was concerned there was no way that Ray could've talked himself out of that one so why leave the damn thing on to just constantly ring, and ring, and ring?
He went back to the house reluctantly the next morning to pick up some clothes and his laptop and to his relief the house was empty. He couldn't quite remember Ray's work schedule off the top of his head but was pleased to know he didn't have to face him just yet.
He was greeted however with a small note on his bedside table.
Ray knew Kai would have to come home at some point. If not for clothes for his work laptop at least being the freakin' workaholic he was.
If he wasn't going to hear him out he could at least read what he had to say...
4 days ago
Entering the bedroom the smell of Ray's body spray from when he'd gotten ready for work that morning danced up Kai's nostrils. He must have only just missed him as the scent still lingered prominently in the air.
He stepped over to his wardrobe, opened up the door and leant down to grab his empty duffle bag before proceeding to fill it with a handful of clothes that'd last him for the next few days. He wasn't sure how long he was going to stay away for. He just knew he needed time to think.
Reaching for some socks it was then that he noticed a folded sheet of paper on his bedside table.
He picked it up and crimson eyes flowed easily over the perfect handwriting - Ray's perfect handwriting.
Kai,
I know you're mad at me but we need to talk about this.
I'm aware of what Mariah is trying to do but you have to trust me when I say that
I am NOT interested in her.
She means nothing to me. You need to believe that.
I'll be home at 6:30 so hopefully I'll see you tonight but if not, call me at least?
I love you.
Ray x
Lowering the note from his gaze Kai felt conflicted.
If Ray really was aware of what Mariah was doing then why hadn't he put a stop to it? Surely she wouldn't keep on trying if he'd made it clear to her that nothing was going to happen between them?
That was the thing though, maybe he hadn't made it clear to her at all. And if not, why not? Scared he'd upset her or something? Or maybe he just likes the attention? Wasn't like he'd gotten much from him lately so it'd make sense.
But then on the other hand, giving his boyfriend some credit here, maybe Ray had told Mariah and she was just that much of tramp she was going to continue the pursuit anyway?
With a low growl at his own thoughts running away with themselves again, he chucked the note back on the bedside table making no effort to hide the fact it had been tampered with.
He didn't really know what to think or believe right now. Sure the words were sweet but he'd always been a man of action. He needed to see that Ray wasn't interested in her and all he saw in that text thread between them was the complete opposite.
Having finished packing his bag he made a detour into the home office to grab his laptop and headed back to his hotel.
He'd call him later he guessed... see what he had to say at least...
x-x-x
Placing the glass bottle of fragrance down Kai rested both hands on the dresser and put his weight on it slightly. The thoughts currently swirling round his mind feeling like a weight too as he continued to muse over what he had done all day upon remembering that tonight was the night.
Would Tala actually show up?... He shouldn't even care if he did or not. The guy had probably forgotten anyway, he didn't know why he was worrying so much.
It would be interesting to see what would happen if they were to bump into each other again though...
He quickly shook the thought off. Fuck that was so wrong.
Sighing through his nose Kai glanced down at the floor as a feeling of shame washed over him before looking back up at himself in the mirror with scolding eyes.
What the hell was wrong with him? Why had he told him about tonight in the first place?
Sure he was angry but what was he honestly expecting to come of it all?
Easing himself off the dresser his eyes met the wooden photo frame that was propped up beside various hair and skincare products and picked it up.
It was of him and Ray taken at the beach last summer.
It had been a beautiful few weeks of glorious sunshine and they'd both taken some time off work and spent every waking minute together.
They'd gone on a few picnics; had a whole bunch of lunch and dinner dates; gone to the seaside, where they had ice-cream and went to the fairground; they had a whole lot of sex. Sometimes in the morning, sometimes at night… hell, morning and night on some days...
Kai stroked over Ray's beaming face in the photo with his finger unable to ignore how happy they both looked together.
Why couldn't they just go back to that?
At hearing the front door unexpectedly open and close downstairs it was safe to assume that Ray was home from work. A rucksack being dropped to the floor with a sigh cementing in the fact.
Exhaling his own breath through his nose he placed the picture frame back down and fastened the cufflinks on his dark burgundy dress shirt and picked up his hair gel to finish off styling his hair.
As he skilfully fussed with his spikes he forced whatever dark thoughts that were currently plaguing him aside and assured himself he'd have a good time regardless.
This would be good for him. A much needed opportunity to blow off some steam.
His old teammates would make sure of it.
Downstairs, Ray had wandered into the kitchen and grabbed himself a beer from the fridge. The cold bottle being instantly pressed against his clammy forehead and flushed cheeks that he'd sported since the lunch time rush. His white polo shirt displayed various splattered food stains and his usually perfectly spiked hair was dishevelled too.
Popping off the metal cap with a fang he gulped some of the cool liquid down, the crisp bitter taste running down his throat satisfying his thirst and easing the stresses that came with working in a restaurant kitchen.
Heading into the living room he set the bottle down onto the coffee table, plopped down heavily onto the couch and turned on the TV. He'd jump in the shower once Kai was gone; he wanted to see him first before he left. Though, he wished he'd hurry up, he stunk of food and wanted to order a pizza. He was starving.
As satisfied with his hair as he was going to be, Kai opened up his wardrobe to take out his freshly polished black shoes before leaving the bedroom to go downstairs.
Hearing him come down, and having noticed there were no dishes in the kitchen sink when he was in there, Ray called out to him from the living room.
"Aren't you going to eat anything before you go babe?"
"Nah, I'll be fine," was the carefree response from where Kai was sat on the second to last step as he tied up his shoe laces.
Easing himself back up to his feet he gave himself another wipe down before venturing into the living room, Ray's clearly tired eyes trailing from the television screen over to him in the doorway.
A warm smile sat upon his lips as he stared lovingly over at his boyfriend. He really was so proud to be his.
"You look really nice babe," he said as chirpily as he could considering how beat he was.
"Mhmm... You're home early?"
Quickly brushing off compliments like he always did, yet soaking it up all the same, Kai stepped in further and leant down to place a kiss on Ray's head before sitting down beside him on the couch.
"Yeah it wasn't as busy as what we thought it was going to be tonight so a few of us got to leave."
Kai made a sound in acknowledgement before going on to make some brief conversation so the two could say they actually exchange some words today.
"What are you watching?"
"Nothing really it's just kind of on..." Ray answered, "What time did you say you were meeting them?"
Kai glanced over at the silver clock on the living room wall.
"Eight... So I'm gonna have to leave soon."
"Mm..."
Kai lightly smiled. "Sulking doesn't suit you Ray."
At that Ray's pout was pushed out further.
"I'm not sulking, it just sucks I had to work today when the team decides to go out on a bender... and you always look really hot so everyone's gonna be wanting a piece of you tonight."
With a faint chuckle Kai glanced at him before smugly turning back to the TV. He did love it when those golden eyes turned green.
"Well, I could always wait for you to get ready?" he suggested. "It wouldn't be a big deal if we were late."
He knew Ray well enough to know he wouldn't be up for it in the slightest now but figured he'd offer anyway.
Ray pressed his lips together as he considered it but as expected quickly shrugged off the idea.
"I'd love to go but I'm exhausted… Gonna order a pizza, take a shower and have an early night I think."
Kai shrugged.
"Suit yourself. They'll be another time, Ray, so quit moping... and besides it'll give you some time to actually miss me..."
Ray's gaze was now transfixed on the older male beside him as he held a serious expression.
"I always miss you, Kai."
Knowing he was looking directly at him, Kai continued to vacantly look up at the TV to avoid the eye contact.
"Don't see why, we haven't exactly been getting along lately..."
"That doesn't mean I don't love you and still miss you when we're apart," Ray placed his hand over Kai's thigh as he spoke, caressing it lightly with his thumb hoping it would add some reassurance.
Another shrug came from him before Kai lightly brushed off the contact to stand and go to pick up his wallet on the mantlepiece.
"Well whatever, I wouldn't miss me."
Opening it to check he had his ID and bank card he buttoned it closed and pushed it into the back pocket of his black jeans.
"I shouldn't be too late… Don't wait up."
Standing himself up from the couch, Ray followed him over to the front door.
"Yeah yeah, have a good time, kay? And don't be texting me drunken nonsense either," he added with a smirk.
Kai scoffed as he rolled his eyes.
"That was one time, get over it..."
Opening the front door he saw the cab pull up outside the house just in time and turned back to him.
"Right, I'll see you later."
Ray nodded and placed a kiss onto his cheek. "Tell the others I said hi okay?"
Assuring him he would Kai stepped outside and straightened up his shirt collar as he proceeded to walk down to the taxi. Ray calling after him with a smile.
"I love you!"
Without looking back Kai casually replied, "That's nice!"
Opening the car door he looked back over at his better half with a teasing smirk, whilst unimpressed amber eyes glared back at him with folded arms waiting for the correct response.
"I love you too… I guess."
Throwing a cheeky wink Kai slipped into the car with his smile still prominent whilst Ray shook his head with his own smile and waved towards the taxi as it took off.
He was never going to change...
x-x-x
With it being a summer night it had just started to get dark as the taxi pulled up outside Toppers club.
Kai could see Max, Kenny and Tyson already gathered outside at the glass door entrance chatting away to each other as they waited for him to arrive.
Giving his thanks he paid the driver, eased himself out of the cab and headed towards his old team mates.
Tyson, who was giving his trademark baseball cap a miss tonight, was the first to see him and sparred at the air like a boxer with excitement as he called over to him.
"Yo, Kai! Ready to paint the town red? Or blue in your case..."
"You don't get out much do you Tyson?" Kai cocked a brow as he looked down at him unimpressed.
"Heh no.. Being the face of the BBA is a 24/7 job y'know," Tyson sheepishly looked to the floor as he scratched his head before instantly perking back up. "But knowing Max was coming Mr D gave me the weekend off so let's get royally hammered guys!"
Shaking his head with a faint smile Kai then turned to face the bald suited bouncer that was stood at the entrance of the club with his arms folded and after a brief nod of their heads in acknowledgment, the door was opened for him granting him access.
Loud dance music instantly poured out the doors and danced around the boy's ears enticing them to enter but as the other three began to follow behind Kai the door was slammed shut, instantly muffling the music again as a muscular arm blocked their paths.
"I.D's." The bouncer sternly requested.
Having no issue with authority both Kenny and Max took out their driver's license from their wallets and handed them over to him but Tyson, who'd already had a few pre-drinks before leaving home, was feeling just a little more confrontational.
"Seriously dude?! You're saying we look younger than 21? What an insult! Bro, you must know who we are?! You really need to see our I.D's?"
Both Max and Kenny shot him a look of horror at his rebellious outburst.
"Tysonn!" The pair warned in unison through gritted teeth, their eyes still wide.
Did he really not see that this man was built like a brick wall and could quite easily end his existence?
Handing the plastic cards back to the two conforming males the bouncer opened the door for them to go inside and they hesitantly left their last remaining team mate, throwing concerned looks back as they joined Kai who'd been stood waiting for them in the foyer.
Closing the door again once they were both inside the bouncer looked down in pity at Tyson before he nonchalantly spoke.
"I don't give a fuck who you are kid. I.D or you're not getting in."
Seeming to sober up real quick seeing all three of his friends inside and himself still out in the cooling night air, Tyson's once strong demeanour softened as he meekly took out his driver's license from his wallet and held it out to him.
Snatching it, the bouncer took off his dark sunglasses to fully inspect the plastic card.
Awkwardly standing there like a scolded school boy, Tyson patiently waited as his ID was inspected.
Abruptly starting his quiz the bouncer spoke out.
"What's your last name?"
Tyson blinked as his heart rate increased with nerves.
"Uh, Granger?"
He had to think twice then. If he had known he was going to be tested he wouldn't have had that second tequila shot at home.
Narrowing his eyes at the young male from over the card, he continued to scan the printed information and compare the photograph to who stood before him.
"What month were you born in?"
Tyson spoke more confidently now, realising the guy was more than likely doing all this on purpose to teach him a lesson and he wished he'd have just kept his trap shut.
"March."
Peeking to the side of the larger man at his friends through the glass he sent over a look that screamed, 'Help me!'
Kai, Max and Kenny watched on at the silent interrogation through the large windows. There wasn't exactly anything they could do for him.
"Ohh Tyson! I've always said his big mouth would get him in serious trouble one day! What if he doesn't let him in?"
Kenny agitatedly looked up at the know all ex leader who was just casually leaning on his shoulder against a wall, arms folded and clearly amused at the scene going on outside.
"It's fine Kenny, he'll get in. Rich is just toying with him right now," Kai informed in his usual blasé tone.
Max frowned once the statement registered in his brain and turned to face him.
"Wait, you know him, Kai?"
Saving the blonde a glance Kai shrugged his free shoulder as he plainly replied once more.
"My company hires this place out all the time for events. I know most of the staff."
Kenny's mouth fell open, and both he and Max shared a look before Max spoke once more. A hint of annoyance lacing his words.
"Bit of a mean trick dude, surely this could've all been avoided?"
Knowing Richard would be wrapping up his act soon Kai peeled himself off the wall and turned to start walking towards the bar.
"Well that's what Tyson gets for being a dick. Anyways what are you guys drinking, first rounds' on me..."
Satisfied that the old world champion had learned his lesson on authority, Rich handed the I.D back to him and pushed open the door.
Tyson exhaled a huge sigh of relief and after fumbling to shove his I.D back into his wallet, he pretty much ran in to get to the others who were now gathered at the bar.
"Sheesh! What an absolute ass that dude was! He was full on testing me! I even had to think what my last name was when he asked!"
With a chuckle Max clapped a hand on Tyson's shoulder as he joined them.
"Well you're inside now dude so let's just enjoy the night… Especially this since Kai paid for it."
Smirking, Max handed over a rum and coke to him which Tyson took with wide eyes.
"Kai paid? For this?... REALLY?" he mouthed as he pointed at the drink with his other hand.
Max raised his eyebrows in emphasis and nodded with a smile. He couldn't believe it either.
Using the back of his hand to shield his mouth Tyson then whispered to the blonde. His brown eyes looking at Kai, then back to Max.
"Is he okay?"
Grabbing his own paid for drink from the bar Max shrugged his shoulders and slyly spoke back in the same manner as the two made their way over to a table.
"I wouldn't question it dude, just say thank you."
Tyson cupped his free hand at his mouth to call over to his ex-captain and gave a thumbs up.
"Hey Kai! Cheers buddy!"
Shortly afterwards Kenny and Kai joined them at the table they'd chosen and sat down with their drinks.
"It's the last one you're getting from me Tyson so I'd sip it if I were you," Kai dryly suggested taking a sip from his glass.
"Listen up guys, here's the plan," Tyson played around pretending that Kai wasn't sat right there. "We just need to get Mr Money Bags over here really drunk to the point that buying his old buddies drinks all night seems like a really good idea."
Hovering his hand in the centre of the table he then asked, "Who's in?"
Kai rolled his eyes. "Never gonna happen kid so you can try it all you like."
Kenny leaned over to Tyson as he spoke.
"He is Russian y'know, Ty. He could probably drink you under the table."
Tyson scoffed.
"Nah that's just a myth Chief, Russian's don't just auto have a higher alcohol tolerance y'know."
"I heard, instead of milk bottles in schools, they give the kids little cartons of vodka," Max chirped in as he swirled the ice cubes in his glass round with his straw purposely avoiding eye contact.
Kai threw the blonde a cocked eyebrow before rolling his eyes once more. He'd honestly expected better of Maxie.
Tyson's eyes widened in genuine shock.
"No way! Really?"
The imagery of a classroom with thirty or so children sipping on little straws filled his mind.
Max couldn't keep the act up anymore and burst out laughing.
"You'd believe anything Tyson!"
Tanned cheeks instantly flushed in embarrassment.
"Pfft whatever!"
Sinking into his chair Tyson sucked on the paper straw in his drink before a look of disgust washed upon his face.
"Ugh! These things are awful. Whose idea was it to change the straws?"
Slamming his hand down on table, causing the drinks to shake, Max passionately exclaimed in jest at the comment.
"Paper straws are the future, Tyson! We're saving the turtles!"
Lifting out the straw that had already started to go soggy Tyson looked at it in pity.
"Yeah but you need like, three of them for one drink..."
"Here's an idea…"
All three boy's attention turned to Kai as he started to speak.
"…Rather than use a straw in the first place like a little bitch, why not just drink straight from the glass, y'know like an adult?"
Kai then took a sip of his drink as he stared Tyson down over his glass.
Both Kenny and Max burst out laughing. Kai's sassy one liners were still comical to the group.
Flopping back into his chair Tyson raised his hands up in a defensive stance.
"Is this just pick on Tyson day or something?!"
Both boys laughter then escalated into howls at his outburst and even Kai couldn't help but smirk on the rim of his glass.
Deep down, he'd missed these losers...
x-x-x
It was around midnight now. The boys had been in the club for a good few hours and their eyes had long adjusted to the darkness.
Heavy dance music blared throughout as the place was now packed full of fellow party goers.
Bright neon lights both illuminated and casted shadows over the entirety of the room and with the help of the smoke machines working overtime, a blanket of haze transcended over the crowd giving drunk faces more mystery and a multitude of sins were currently being concealed on the sticky dance floor.
Feeling a buzz in his pocket Kai reached for his phone and squinted at the brightness of the illuminated screen.
[T: I'm here. Where are you?]
When his foggy mind realised who the hell had texted him his breath hitched in his throat as a rush of anxiety swirled in his stomach.
Shit. He'd completely forgotten about Tala.
His vision now darted around the club like he was a hunted animal and scoured the scene for the redhead.
Between the smoke, flashing lights and several drinks now in his system it was hard to make anyone out in particular.
He chose to ignore it and shoved the phone back into his pocket.
He couldn't look too suspicious, not in front of the others.
Lifting his drink from the table he took a few large sips of his whiskey and coke to try and calm his nerves.
He shouldn't have told him. Why did he tell him he was going to be here? What was he thinking?
It wasn't long before his phone vibrated again, only this time the vibrations seemed to go on for longer... and longer...
Hesitantly taking it from his pocket again there was an incoming call.
= Tala Landscaper =
Fuck.
Pressing his lips together in a thin line trying to stay composed, he pushed it back into his pocket and looked over his shoulder again, the vibrations continuing against his thigh.
He hated feeling like this. The paranoia, the anxiety. The booze was only exacerbating everything and he couldn't relax now knowing that the redhead was lurking nearby somewhere.
Was it getting hot in here?
Unfastening the few top buttons on his shirt with one hand Kai took another swig of his drink, seeking comfort from the ice.
Max was the only one who seemed to notice his slight shift in demeanour and leant over to him, calling into his ear hoping to be heard over the loud music.
"You okay dude?"
Kai simply responded with a nod and took another mouthful of his drink.
He shouldn't have messaged him. He shouldn't have encouraged him... He and Ray were good now weren't they? Maybe? He wasn't quite sure...
Fuck he was so stupid!
Guilt ridden thoughts ran through his mind as he continued to cautiously scan around the club once more.
It all just felt too real. The harmless messages were one thing but actually meeting in person?
He could just play stupid? Say his phone died. Yeah. That was it. Phone died. Oops. No biggie. Yeah... he'll just text him that or something...
- And then Kai saw him.
Dressed in white jeans and a fitted black shirt with the sleeves rolled up, Tala stood with his back up against the bar. His elbows bent resting on the counter like he owned the place. Like the alpha lion watching over his pride, he just oozed confidence and sex appeal.
Two females, a blonde and a brunette were currently fussing over him.
Of course they were. He was gorgeous.
Both twirling their hair and giggling over something he was saying before all three of them threw back a shot each.
His red locks were free of the baseball cap and spiked up flawlessly with two perfectly equal strands of hair falling over his freshly shaven face.
Kai snapped his face towards the guys again, glad that the females had his attention.
He wouldn't notice him all the way over here, surely.
Several agonising minutes had passed and the others were currently chatting away and reminiscing.
With a grin on his face Tyson nudged Kenny with his elbow as he spoke.
"Oh oh! Do you remember that chick Emily? Kenny definitely wanted to tap that."
"No I did not!"
A blush immediately appeared over Kenny's cheeks as he defended himself though thankfully with it being so dark in the place the others didn't notice.
"You so did, Chief! Don't lie!" Max teased as he took a sip of his drink.
Kai's phone vibrated again in his pocket and to his relief was just the once.
The 60 seconds that he ignored that text for felt like an hour.
Unable to suppress the curiosity any longer he hesitantly fished out the device and read the text preview on the screen.
[T: 8 o'clock.]
Kai frowned.
8 o'clock?
He turned to his left - And there he was.
Crimson met aqua as Kai and Tala's eyes locked through the sea of people. Time seeming to stand still as they stared each other down, almost not believing the sight that was before them.
Kai's blood ran cold as it was clear he'd been watching him for a while.
How... How did he find him?!
With his prey now aware of his presence Tala shoved his phone back into his pocket, a devilish smirk dancing upon his lips.
He was far sexier than he remembered him...
He started walking towards him, his line of sight firmly locked on Kai as he proceeded to make his way through the crowd whilst Kai's heart raced racking his brain on what to do as he sat like a deer in headlights.
He chose to down the remainder of his drink, firmly setting the empty glass down on the table before leaning over and calling into Max's ear.
"I'll be right back!"
They couldn't see him talk to him. They just couldn't.
Realistically Kai could quite easily pass the redhead off as someone from work or just simply who he was - some guy who renovated his yard. But his tipsy mind wasn't thinking logically and in his guilt he was convinced they'd say something to Ray and he could just not risk that!
Standing up from their table he too began to make his way through the crowd to the downstairs restrooms and upon seeing Kai leave the pack Tala made the same detour and proceeded to casually follow him down the stairs.
Kai pushed open the wooden door and to his relief the entire bathroom and stalls were completely empty.
He walked over to the tiled wall furthest away from the door and leaned against it for support, staring at the door trying to calm himself, his chest currently heaving in and out of him like he was awaiting the death penalty.
Any second now Tala was going to walk in here.. and then what?
Then what?!
He felt physically sick.
Possibly due to the amount of alcohol he'd consumed, but more so the crippling anxiety sitting in the pit of his stomach.
He wasn't a cheater... So that made this okay.
What bad was really going to happen here? Really? Tala couldn't just go and force him to do anything he didn't want to do.
They'd just talk. It'd be fine.
Taking in a deep breath he counted down...
3….2…1...
The wooden door swung open, and now standing before him was the big bad wolf himself.
"Don't you like answering your phone?" Tala taunted as he swaggered into the bathroom, the door closing shut behind him.
Kai shrugged and pointed to the ceiling.
"Loud music.. Didn't hear it."
He knew Tala wouldn't buy it but it was worth a shot.
"Mhmm, course you didn't… Anyway, you're looking hot as..."
Brushing off the blatant lie Tala began to drink up the younger male as he sauntered on closer towards him. His teeth biting into his lower lip as icy eyes bounced up and down Kai's figure as he began to mentally undress him.
With him getting nearer, Kai tried his best to come across unfazed as he loosely folded his arms and cocked a brow.
"Hn. Scrub up well yourself. Guessing your girlfriend picked out your shirt? 'Cos I can't see you having any sort of fashion sense all on your own..."
Looking down at his black shirt that hugged him almost too perfectly, Tala stroked his fair hands down his torso feeling the silky material.
"Yeah, she bought me it actually."
Blue eyes then gazed back up at Kai with a glint of amusement as he attempted to sound innocent.
"You like it?"
Kai shook his head at the once secret arrogance making an appearance, the smirk that tugged at his lips too strong to suppress.
"You really are something else Tala."
This was not the same guy who came to fix up his yard...
Whilst Kai had sensed a slight cheeky attitude about him, he didn't anticipate the redhead would be this audacious.
Tala took a final step forward closing the distance between them and gazed down at Kai's body; a single finger caressing down his chest to his abs through his burgundy shirt before he locked again with crimson eyes.
"Yeah but you like it... Don't you?"
At being slightly unnerved by the intense eye contact and touch from his predator that had sent a tingle down his spine, Kai looked away. A light blush now upon his cheeks at the assumption, he firmly pressed his lips together to diminish the cursed smile that was giving all his thoughts away.
"I'll take that as a yes..." Tala continued. "You fucking want this as much as I do Kai, just admit it. You love the thrill."
Kai swallowed but it was true. He did.
The absolute scandal of it all.
Tala excited him and it was something Kai had never experienced before.
He'd had random flings in the past sure, but they were all innocent on his part - he was single.
But this?
Both parties having a significant other? It was dirty. Immoral… But he wasn't doing anything to stop it, and had even been the one to encourage the whole thing ever since Tala had sent that damn half naked picture to him.
Tipsy eyes dared to gaze back at the hungry ones that had never stopped staring at him.
He was losing control. He could feel it. Kai was completely captivated by those glacial blue eyes; he felt helpless… and he didn't want to be saved.
"..I.. I don't know what you want from me Tal..."
He knew he sounded pathetic right now but he really was at a loss.
Not over Tala but himself.
He knew what Tala wanted. Of course he did. He'd wanted to screw him ever since he first laid eyes on him as he came down the stairs that morning to get more coffee.
Lust at first sight. That was his tale.
But what did he want? Kai knew it should be nothing from the other male but...
Tala licked his lips as he reached for Kai's jawline and caressed it with his thumb.
What did he want from him?
Bringing his face in dangerously close, he whispered into Kai's lips that had parted slightly in anticipation.
"How about I just show you..."
It was then that the restroom door abruptly swung open and Tala immediately recoiled like he'd been burnt, pressed down on a tap at one of the sinks and started an innocent washing his hands act.
"Heyy buddy! There ya are!" A somewhat worse for wear Tyson stumbled in, music flowing in behind, "Wondered where you'd gone. *hic* You good? I'm pretty hammered to be honest… But I'm good! *hic*"
With his heart pounding almost violently in his chest, Kai watched on as his old team mate staggered over to the urinals. He knew any sort of response to his question would have been a waste of breath so didn't bother answering.
Not that he could muster any words right now anyway.
The shorter male then meandered over to the sinks, standing in between Tala who, keeping up his 'minding his own business' act, went to go dry his hands under the dryer, and Kai who was stood with his back still against the tiled wall.
"You coming back upstairs, dude? Max is *hic* talking to a really pretty blonde.. Who knew that guy was so smooth!" Tyson chirpily slurred in between his hiccups.
"Y-yeah, the music was just starting to get on my nerves... I'll be up soon. Go ahead."
Kai brushed off all he'd said and gestured towards the door with a nod in hope Tyson would just leave but that, along with the agitation in his voice went completely unnoticed.
Clumsily wiping his hands on his jeans to dry them, Tyson swayed towards him and threw an arm over his broad shoulders in affection but mostly for balance.
"Nahh come on buddy I'm not *hic* going without you... You're missing out on some major entertainment up there!"
Tala glared over with his hands still under the dryer. Clearly frustrated but knowing full well he couldn't do anything to intervene, he sent Kai a wide eyed expression - 'Get rid of him!'
Realistically this was the safety net Kai needed to escape, but those demanding peer pressure inducing eyes held him captive to the point he desperately racked his brain to find a way to please his captor.
He awkwardly shrugged Tyson off of him, reached for the wallet in his back jean pocket and took out his black credit card.
"Okay but first, here."
Kai held out the card and placed a hand on Tyson's shoulder hoping to get his complete undivided attention. Looking straight into his eyes his next words were spoken slowly and precise so even a child could understand.
He knew full well this was a terrible idea, but he really needed to get him out of here.
"Go get everyone another drink, and I'll meet you up there in a bit, okay?"
Tyson's eyes comically widened as he took hold of the black card, his mouth also following suit. He grazed his thumb over the embossed silver letters and read out the text in his mind.
Mis-ter... K... Hi-wa-ta-ri. Fuck this is Kai's credit card. He was really holding Kai's credit card. Holy mother of God.
"A-Are you sure?" he squeaked, his eyes now looking up at him.
Kai took in a breath. Nope. Not at all.
"Yeah, go on back upstairs, I'll find you. I just need to piss, now. Go."
He was practically walking Tyson out of the restroom at this point. Tyson still holding on the card staring down at it in awe. He'd never held a black credit card before.
He then stopped walking and looked back up at Kai once more, the alcohol in his system giving him the confidence to push his luck.
"C-Can I get shots too?"
A growl rumbled in Kai's throat.
"Yes! Get whatever you want Tyson, just-fucking go!" he barked as he started to lose his cool with him. His eyes hesitantly looking towards Tala whose own frustrated glare never faltered.
With a dopey grin on his face Tyson slowly moseyed over to the restroom door and pulled on the metal handle to open it before turning back to look at Kai.
"You're the best buddy… I can't believe I *hic* used to hate you..."
Kai opened his mouth to retort but closed it again once Tyson's words had registered in his own tipsy mind.
He really didn't have a response to that.
Just as he was about to walk out inebriated brown eyes then noticed the random guy who had been in there with them the whole time, awkwardly stood there now pretending to be texting.
With a nod Tyson slurred, "Heyy, nice shirt dude."
Tala coolly glanced up and briefly nodded back acknowledging the compliment before Tyson stumbled on out the door.
With it closing behind him, the two were finally alone again...
"That.. was actually painful… What a fuckin' loser…" Tala sneered at the restroom door before his focus was back on Kai.
"Now, where were we?"
Making up for lost time he stalked back over to Kai and roughly cupped the back of his head in his hand to bring their faces mere inches apart once more though Kai lightly pressed his hands against his chest, creating some distance and tilted his head away from him.
"Tala we can't do this, what about your girlfriend?"
Seeing Kai's neck completely exposed he pounced on it, alternating between kisses and sucking he casually responded, his breath warming ivory skin.
"What about her?"
At feeling his lips on him Kai seemed to melt some, his breathing increasing before softly moaning out another pitiful attempt at stopping him whilst deep down wanting it all to continue.
"W-what if someone comes back in here?"
With Kai's slate hair intertwined in his fingers Tala pulled him back in close and used his other hand to take hold of his jaw and force him to look directly at him. Kai's lips had parted again almost begging to be touched as he stared into blue smouldering eyes that if he was honest unnerved him a little.
Tala knew he had him hooked though. He could tell by how he was being gazed back at. Crimson orbs holding their own lust filled glaze that fluttered to a close at his husky tone.
"Then we'd better make it fast."
Like he was starving he pressed his lips against Kai's with his tongue wasting no time in exploring his mouth and with the same passion a hand had gripped hold of fiery red hair, Kai automatically fighting for charge of the kiss too but was no match for the others dominance.
It was clear Tala had done this a thousand times before. His talented tongue intertwining with Kai's, tasting him completely and running rings around him.
He had never been manhandled like this before. It was he who was always in command. When it came to anything sexual Kai knew what he was doing but Tala made him feel like a complete novice.
Maybe it was the alcohol hindering him?
Whatever it was he knew he couldn't over power him, not in his current intoxicated state so accepted his submission to him as he knew next time he'd definitely show Tala who was boss.
Wait, no. There was no next time. What was he saying?!
Kai's wild thoughts ceased as Tala abruptly pulled away from the passionate kiss and dragged him into the nearest bathroom stall before he could even catch his breath back.
He slammed the door and locked it behind them giving Kai just enough time to regain his balance before he was roughly pressed up against the side of the cubicle and their lips were crushed together once more.
He felt light headed.
This was getting too much.
That last vodka shot going straight to his head now, he was starting to spin.
Tala's hands frantically made their way to undo the buttons on Kai's shirt though quickly losing his patience he ripped the rest of it open causing the last three buttons to tear off the maroon material.
Needing breath himself he broke the kiss again and took a small step back with the little room they had to take in the sight before him.
The big boss man himself, multi-millionaire, Kai Hiwatari, a completely defenceless, flustered mess in a basement bathroom stall.
Putty in his hands.
A smug smile sat on Tala's face. He knew he wasn't all that.
Gripping a hold of Kai's wrists he tightly held them up above his head and kicked the inside of his left foot causing Kai's legs to part more.
Kai inhaled sharply as his heart skipped a beat at how easy he was just physically manipulated. The very action causing himself to twitch in his jeans.
Replacing the grip on his wrists with one of his forearms Tala now used his free hand to cup the hardened bulge in Kai's jeans as he towered over him and as expected hips desperately ground into his palm.
"Seem a little tight these jeans don't you think, Kai?" he faked a tone of concern. "Maybe we should.. Take them off?"
Kai wanted to respond but no words came out of his wanting gaped mouth. He was completely under the others spell and all he could do was nod as he pressed his lips tightly together and swallowed hard.
His mind was completely taken over by lust as Tala skilfully undid the button on his jeans with one hand, pulled down his zipper and pressed his lips against his once more before trailing them down his jawline.
With the extra room his free hand now easily made its way into his Calvin Klein boxers and at gripping the hardened muscle within them Kai's eyes rolled back and a soft moan escaped his lips.
"To think we could have been doing this the whole time I was over working on the yard..." Tala purred against his neck.
Kai just bit into his own lower lip as he was stroked, another sound sitting in his throat as his head shamelessly tilted to expose more of his flushed skin to him.
On the outside a man dressed in a grey uniform strolled into the bathroom with a bright yellow industrial mop bucket on wheels.
Within seconds he noticed two pairs of legs in the locked stall and tutted, mentally cursing the club for 'not paying him enough to always have to deal with this shit' and pounded his fist against the door.
"Hey! Only one person in a cubicle at a time!"
Unlike Kai who had jumped at the noise, Tala, completely unfazed by the bang on the door leisurely backed away from Kai and removed the hand he'd had in his boxers.
Pressing his lips together in an attempt to stifle his laugh like a naughty child that had just been caught doing something wrong, he sang out to the janitor in an exaggerated sweet tone.
"Just a second!"
He gestured for Kai to sort himself out as his hand rested on the lock and Kai frantically pulled up the zipper on his jeans before Tala effortlessly unlocked the door with a flick of his fingers.
As the door opened he glowered at the janitor for his rude interruption before arrogantly strolling past him, knocking his shoulder with his as he passed.
"Enjoy the rest of your night, Mr Hiwatari..."
The scowl quickly transitioned to an expression of superiority as he sauntered out of the restroom and left the scene without a trace.
Avoiding eye contact as he queried, a faint blush washed over the janitor's cheeks as he almost felt the overwhelming embarrassment on Kai's behalf.
"A-Are you okay there, sir?" he stuttered.
The last person he would've expected to see behind that stall door would've been the CEO of Hiwatari enterprises. He wasn't 100% clued up on all the latest celebrity gossip but he was pretty sure the young executive was with a Chinese boy, no?
Straightening himself up off of the cubicle wall with his feathers royally ruffled, Kai cleared his throat and clumsily began buttoning up his shirt.
"Y-yes… I'm fine... Just.. Please, don't breathe a word of this to anyone."
He too avoided eye contact as he tried to regain some of his dignity, though it was very obvious to the janitor how drunk he was.
He nodded to him regardless whilst keeping his eyes low.
"Of course, sir."
x-x-x
Stumbling out of the taxi Kai staggered up the driveway and fumbled in his pockets for his front door key.
He didn't see Tala again for the rest of night and having re-joined the others back upstairs he proceeded to purchase a few rounds of shots to help him try forget what had occurred in that bathroom stall.
He was trashed. Well and truly.
Squinting his eyes to focus on the key hole it took him an entire five attempts to slide the key in, turn it, and pull down the door handle.
The door swung open, and even with him holding on to the handle for dear life he still fell into the house anyways and pushed the door to a close behind him with a little more force than he'd anticipated.
The way he'd winced at the harsh slam was like he'd felt the doors pain.
"Shhh!"
He sent to it, his index finger held to his lips as he hesitantly gazed up at the ceiling.
Maybe Ray's catlike senses weren't working tonight and he totally didn't hear that...
Yeah right.
Upstairs Ray was laid in the dark staring up at the bedroom ceiling. He'd actually woken up on Kai's third try of getting the key in the door and was contemplating on whether to help him up to bed or just leave the bastard to fend for himself.
Upon hearing the kitchen light turn on though he knew he had to get up to make sure this guy didn't get any bright ideas like cooking in his intoxicated state.
With a growl he threw off the bed sheets and made his way down the stairs.
He paused in the kitchen doorway and folded his arms over his chest as he watched Kai attempt to make himself some toast.
Attempt, because although he'd managed to put the bread in Kai had failed to flick on the switch, so after the seventh time of him pressing down the lever and it not sticking Ray had seen enough of the perplexed expression on his lover's face and felt the need to intervene.
"What time do you call this, Kai?"
Not taking any notice of who was speaking to him and just focusing on giving a correct answer, Kai looked up to the wooden clock on the kitchen wall and strained his eyes trying to steady his vision to read the time.
"…Three?… no… Four… 4:45? Shiit..." he dopily smirked, sounding quite impressed with himself for managing to stay out so late.
Ray stared at him in disgust.
He hated seeing him like this. He was such an arrogant drunk.
"Go to bed Kai. We'll talk about this in the morning."
Kai scoffed as his attention went back to the toaster lever and mocked Ray's voice in a tone that sounded absolutely nothing like him.
"Go to bed Kaiii, we'll talk about this in the morninggg."
Ray tutted.
"Dickhead…" he muttered to himself as he knew Kai wouldn't take any notice. He then frowned as he saw the state Kai's shirt was in.
"What happened to your buttons?" he asked.
Kai gave up on the clearly broken toaster with a huff before looking over in Ray's direction.
"Huh?"
Ray's patience was starting to run thin. With an exasperated sigh he repeated himself.
"Your buttons? On your shirt? What happened to your shirt, Kai?"
The more Ray watched the mess that was his boyfriend the more annoyed he could feel himself getting.
He was tired, it had long gone past the point of funny now.
Staring down at himself with a dumbfound expression, Kai held both sides of his ruined shirt open, shrugged and slurred an unconvincing, "I dunno."
Pinching the bridge of his nose with one hand Ray pointed at the stairs with the other.
"Go to Bed. Now."
Kai's attention then went from his wrecked shirt over to Ray.
Now, Kai found Ray pretty attractive on a normal day, but being completely fuelled with alcohol and still pretty wound up from his little bout with Tala earlier, that kitten stood in the doorway was looking rather ravishing right now.
Stalking towards him he looked him up and down like a famished animal.
"Bed sounds like a pretty good idea to be honest..."
Grabbing hold of his hips he roughly pulled Ray in close and went straight for his neck.
"Ow! Don't Kai," Ray warned as he pulled away from the tight grip Kai had on his skin. "Get off. I'm not talking to you right now, you're being sloppy. Go to bed."
Now Ray found Kai pretty irresistible on a normal day, but being stone cold sober, and seeing this guy slur his words whilst reeking of booze, Kai was anything but attractive right now. As a matter of fact he was pretty repulsive right now.
"Come oonn, what are you scared of?"
Kai closed the distance again causing Ray to take another step backwards. His back was up against the wall in the hallway now. He had nowhere else to go.
"Kai, I said stop."
Slight fear now laced Ray's tone as he pushed on Kai's broad chest to try and keep some distance between them whilst Kai's hands continued to grip hold and grope him. All he could smell was a mixture of his faded cologne, sweat and hard liquor.
Kai had never looked at him like this before.
It was almost, animalistic.
This wasn't the Kai he knew.
The Kai he knew had a gaze that softened every time their eyes met. It was almost like he was possessed right now.
Fair hands then grabbed a fistful of his long hair before Kai forced his lips on his as his other hand tried to make its way into Ray's pyjama bottoms.
Struggling between Kai and the wall, Ray used all of his strength to push on his chest to get him away from him.
"I SAID STOP!" he cried out as he raised his hand and slapped Kai hard across the face, sending his face snapping to the side with glazed eyes widening in shock.
Did- Did he just hit him?
Kai slowly lifted his hand up to his now reddened cheek before staring back at Ray completely stunned.
The pain was numbed from all the alcohol but his skin felt warm to touch.
Ray glared back at him with panic ridden watery eyes, his chest was heaving as the adrenaline coursed through his veins.
"D-Don't you dare come near me!" his voice cracked as he tried to hold back his tears. He'd never had to raise a hand to anyone in his life but he dreaded to think what would have happened if he hadn't done so. "You can sleep on the couch."
Quickly shoving past him he hurried up the stairs as the tears began to fall and once he was back in their bedroom he slammed the door closed behind him and threw himself onto their bed.
With his hand still against his throbbing cheek, Kai's dumbfound gaze followed Ray as he ran up the stairs and upon hearing the door slam he flinched, the very faint sound of sobs not quite making it to his ears as he himself drifted into the living room like a lost sheep.
Slumping down onto the couch he felt the sudden need to grip hold of the arm as he tried to steady himself, his vision having suddenly gone blurry.
The room was spinning.
His lungs then took it upon themselves to deeply inhale and exhale all on their own. His breathing becoming short and rapid with his whole face suddenly feeling incredibly warm though all colour had drained from his cheeks.
It wasn't long before the intense wave of nausea took over him and the contents of his stomach were splattered all over the laminate floor.
Hot tears spilled from his eyes as he lurched forward, his stomach continuing to violently retch with nothing but liquid from the evening continuing to pour from his throat.
Gasping for air a few minutes later he weakly wiped his lips with his shirt sleeve before collapsing onto his side exhausted as sleep finally consumed him.
A/N: Oh my sweet boy. Didn't no one ever teach you to never go out drinking on an empty stomach?
*shrugs* We've all been there.
I'm going away in two weeks so will be uploading the next chapter from the Dominican Republic! Ohh all the rum.. A tipsy Katya might make for some interesting content..
Hopefully see you on the next one! K~