Next few days were extremely exhausting for me. I agreed with Akashi upon one thing; I had to rest. I spent whole weekend in my bed, receiving drips with lacking minerals, and getting strength for upcoming challenges. I had to accustom myself with the fact it's no longer my office. I mean, I still had a desk there, next to the window, just like previous vice-presidents, but so what? Defeat hurt more than I expected. I had never lost, even the most paltry contests or bets, but yet someone appeared, who won with me. The worst part was the knowledge, that he was the person I used to turn to for help and support. Marianna run around me, bending over backwards, only to bring me back to life. She even called my mother, who gave me a tongue-lashing. In terms of health she was more strict than father. Omitting the fact, that she's been barely seeing me. Each of governesses also put their hands on me. They tried to occupy my attention with learning anything I liked. So I chose Italian Renaissance, Tchaikovsky's ballets and Shakespeare. Something I considered pleasurable and undemanding.
Returning to school was quite uncomfortable. In the hallways, students pointed fingers at me, whispering between themselves. I despise such people; they don't have their own lives, so they are interested in others. They also enjoy sniping those who stumbled during their climbing, not initiating anything on their own. Envy is their second name and if I could, I would spread their faces all over the floor. 'Stop, Attaviano, what are you thinking about. You're better than that.' Reo and Lena almost instantly took care of me. Blonde dogged me, throwing disdainful glances at gossipers. She also didn't say a word about elections. As if they have never happened. The basketball player, on the other hand, kept me away from untimely meeting with the redhead. I knew, however, that during the long break I had to come to the office for new Council's official assembly. It felt incredibly weird to enter this classroom, knowing that it wouldn't be my speech they'd listen to. That I will not suggest the working schedule. I hugged Reo thankfully and left him in the hallway, heading toward the office. My hands were trembling, so I shoved the book into the bag. It was beloved, special edition of Othello, which I finished last Sunday with Elisabeth. We often read with parts divided into roles, sighing and crying over characters' fates.
When I stepped inside, Akashi was nowhere to be seen. After fast examination I noticed, that he didn't change the squad; he only had expelled previous vice-president. I will have to find him and apologize properly for that, even if I was as pure as the driven snow. But I had to calm down my restless conscience. Everyone smiled at me comfortingly, but I flicked at that. I didn't need mercy. I think they understood my gesture, because they came back to a normal mood in a second, and the atmosphere loosened up. I approached the desk that belonged to me from then on. It was empty, with some folders and paper articles. I scavenged from my bag a photo, the only one I always brought with myself. It represented my whole team and Lena, all grinning, after some street tournament. That was the first time in Japan, where we really had to toil over. We won with a huge advantage of goals, but it's been a long time since I felt so exhausted after a match. We were holding an enormous cup, sweaty, but smiling proudly to the camera. I placed the photo on the desk, caressing it with my fingertip, when the doors opened hastily.
Akashi stormed inside with a bunch of papers in his hands. He was fixing something with a pen and didn't even look around. He leaned on his new headquarter and only then raised his head from work. He was looking at me for a second, but I couldn't find a hint of emotion on his face. Apparently, my person made no reaction in him. I was expecting that, but still I didn't manage to hide my pout. I folded my arms, waiting for him to start.
"I would like to welcome everyone on our first, new Rakuzan High Student's Council assembly. Although it is hard to call you fresh, since there were only cosmetic changes. Your previous President, Chiara Attaviano, was moved to vice-president position and I truly hope she'll perform duties as diligently as always." he looked at me again, but I turned my head away, snorting. He knitted his eyebrows, but didn't comment my arrogant behavior. "I am not going to change much in the yearly plan; I'll only adjust the shifts. I believe our cooperation will be as fruitful as it was with Chiara."
He walked through the classroom, handing everyone some papers. They were filled with any needed information about upcoming cultural events, tournaments, competitions and other things. I even noticed a conference in Akita about management for presidents. Where did he find it?! Does he really think he'd find time for this?
"I am fully aware that we are taking enormous responsibility on our shoulders. But only thanks to such organization we will reach the highest aim I had mentioned during debate. Rakuzan will be the best, I can guarantee. Those are not just empty words, I always fulfill my promises. What I expect from you is absolute carrying out my orders and your own contribution. Every initiative will be investigated. I do not want to block or stifle you. You are here for certain reasons. I am inclined toward to answer any question. Personal data and contact you will find on the top of first page. But I assume some of you have already had it."
I would snort again, but I didn't need more attention drawn to my person than it was needed. Besides, why should I give another subject of gossips? He hadn't changed his number since junior high school, I wonder if he still uses the same cellphone... Oh God, why am I thinking about such rubbish!
The rest of meeting was spent on asserting everyone knew their duties. Budget issue as always took most of the time, but events entail with costs. We were supposed to find a way to extend it, without crossing the boundaries of absurd. I leaned my head on the palm, knocking pen on the desk. I was getting more and more impatient, waiting for Akashi to proceed to my function. I have never been a vice-president before. I've always been leading people. Still, I remember it is quite a difficult job. Having redhead as my substitute I can easily recall him coming to me with papers that I didn't know could exist. Will I have to do the same? Many documents required signatures from both presidents. I'll probably spend most of my time like that. I growled, reaching for a sheet of paper. I scribbled some Latin sentences I learned with Elisabeth. I tuned out of the conversation completely until I heard my name.
"I guess it is all for now; I do not wish to take your lunch time. Rest a little bit and come back loaded with positive energy and ideas. Chiara, could you stay? I have some questions for you." I sat upright and nodded, seeing one of my friends smiling miserably behind Akashi's back. I think I ignored something important, because everyone seemed frightened. What the hell did he tell them? I glanced at the paper I abused. It was full of geometric figures, flowers and facial expressions. I was fairly skilled in drawing, but I've never been interested in it. Those lessons seemed redundant to me, when I could spend my time reading or horseback riding.
When we were left alone, Akashi approached the window, putting his hands behind. With a bored expression I watched him gathering up to start a conversation. What did he really want? He knew everything about his new position, I was sure about it. He's never been unprepared. I wonder if he had ever felt unprepared. Maybe, indeed, he only wanted to remind me my duties? I nervously tapped out rhythm of the song that's been on my mind lately. But why did it have to be a Moulin Rouge tango? Well, you cannot say there is no tension between us.
"I had stated everything you should know about your new position in the report I gave you. Read it at home, please, and mark some mistakes if you find it appropriate. I would like to base our cooperation on availability. If I call, I expect you to show up. Do not worry, I will not use it for trivial things. You have never had a problem with organization, so the paperwork problem solves on its own."
He wasn't even looking at me, what brought me to blind rage. Are we going to talk like this? It was far from etiquette! I got up slowly, gliding fingertips on the desk. Calm down, Chiara, don't let your emotions take over control, he only waits for that. You'll say too many words and he'll just look at you with this cheeky expression of his.
"I'd wish you looked at me as you spoke. Did you forget your manners? Or maybe you find my sight unpleasant?"
Crap, I did it again. Nevermind, hatchets weren't buried yet. At least mine. It seemed that the upcoming year would be one, huge, relentless battle with Student's Council as a battlefield. Akashi turned away from the window; he looked briefly at the photo I had brought. Corners of his lips moved slightly.
"Just the opposite, possibility of admiring your person is one of my most treasured things I have ever done in my life. Although I wasn't sure if you would like to watch me." I felt as if he slapped me. The comment was fairly right, kind, but calculated. I staggered a bit. I had to instantly rebuild foundations of my self-confidence and sharp tongue, other way I'll have no chance against him.
"Is it everything you wanted to talk about? I thought that changing roles wouldn't be a problem; both you and me know how it feels to work in Council. You cannot tell me I'm incompetent. I promise not to provide any problems." I answered, trying to sound as dismissively as possible. I was pretty good at playing roles so I believed I'd just walk away.
"Why didn't you use we instead? Does it scare you, or irk you? Are you going to emphasize your independence in such small details?" he asked, staring at me. I fixed subtly shirt's cuffs. Damn, he caught me again. Me and the elements that meant a lot to me.
"Don't change the subject, please. I'm not prepared for another useless, exhausting clash. I'd also be fond of coming back to my friends and eating lunch."
"Forgive me my officiousness, I'm just curious if our relationship will only be a cold interaction between workers. You ask me about my manners. I don't know it myself, it's another time I start the conversation in a wrong way. How are you feeling? I hope you had rest during that weekend. You look much better. I can see those charming blushes on your cheeks. Or maybe is it because of me?" I was put off my stroke, shocked by his effrontery. Akashi has never been sassy; I mean, he had those ironic texts, but usually bottled them up. He was a heir of an enormous corporation, expected to care about his image. I still didn't figure out what happened during their third year in Teikou. Was it a crucial moment for them all?
"In your dreams, ragazzo. As you noticed, my energy is back. It's not my optimum yet, but I'll be ready for the next match. And in terms of relationship... you imposed this way. I never enforce you to anything, unlike you."
"You're still pessimistic toward me, hurts my heart, Chiara." I snorted, covering my mouth. A heart? Do you even have it? Cause I wouldn't place a bet on you right now. Even though we were speaking politely, you could feel the tension between us. If Akashi was Italian, we'd probably jump to our throats, flicking arms and throwing stuff. Oh yeah, I love Italian arguments. The only thing that counted there was the power of your voice and fast reflex.
"You're not giving me a choice, Akashi. I think I expressed myself clearly in the infirmary. Or maybe there's something you don't understand?" I answered, withdrawing slowly to door. Running away was becoming my habit, though I've always looked down on such behavior. My father had taught me that it was the worst way to accept defeat. Since redhead showed up in Rakuzan I do nothing but that. Was it the end of my career and impeccable opinion? He took few steps in my direction, finally passing my desk. There was no more barrier between us that could stop him from staying at his spot. I truly hated his lack of respect for personal space. He wasn't behaving like a Japanese.
"There is one thing that's been disturbing me. I can't understand why..." he approached me, wrapping his palms around my wrists. I moaned from pain; tears showed in my eyes. "Why having me finally here you're not taking advantage of this?"
Last words were whispered just in front of my cheek. If it was a normal situation I'd probably burn from embarrassment, but in a moment I'd smile shyly and try to answer this intimate question. But Akashi's cold eyes and roughness which he used against me only caused an opposite reaction. I pulled my hands out i bit lower lip. I couldn't understand him at all. He had this crazy facial expression that just scared me.
"Now I'm the one disturbed. From both of us you took everything. You have all required to control the situation. Then why are you dragging me in?! I'm just a poor chess piece, Akashi. In shogi I would be only fuhyō. Just knock me off the board and leave alone." I clenched my fists, stopping myself from growling. He stood there, firm and calm.
"You go off the deep end so easily, Chiara. Where is your unswerving certainty of reasons? You wouldn't let me gain control over yourself in junior high school. You say I've changed. But it's not only me; it's also you. You have to become aware of that, otherwise our collaboration will go to waste." he headed toward the exit, standing right beside me. He stretched his arm as if he wanted to embrace me, but in the nick of time he changed his mind. He looked at me and I could swear I noticed a small shade of smile on his face. "It's a pity that you don't know your own value. On my chessboard you're the King I must protect at all costs. But I think Empress suits you more."
He laughed quietly, satisfied with the metaphor. I was paralyzed, not knowing what to say. Again I didn't manage to end this conversation, we didn't explain anything.
"I appreciate your temperament, I've missed it last year. To be honest, I couldn't wait till I get this position. But before I let you go..." he bent to me and finished his sentence in a conspiratorial whisper. "I'm not holding back this time. And you know what I mean."
He closed the door and I came back to my desk, feeling the sweat on my back. Of course I knew. It's not that easy to forget such important words said a year ago. I leaned on the table, breathing heavily. Each confrontation was too tiring. His aura was so intimidating I wavered under his gaze. Are you sure it's the only reason why your legs are shaking? Quiet voice in my head returned. I waved my hand trying to get rid of it, but the statement was already graven in my head for the rest of the day.
I left the office a little bit woozy, without noticing still whispering about me students. Their presence just became transitory because my thought were running to one person. The demon from the past, who came back and didn't want to give up. I accepted his challenge soundlessly - how long will I stand?
Author's note: Heeey! So here's another chapter, long one again, but I just can't stop writing when I have these two together in one room! Thank you so much for sticking with me, it means a lot. Anyway, I hope you'll like it. From now on you belong to Chiara and Akashi. Let them know what you think and I guess I'll see you next week! :)