A.N. I wanted to thank everyone for their wonderful reviews. Good reviews definitely help encourage me to continue with this story! I would have had this chapter up sooner, but I was having trouble with my account. As a note about this chapter, I wanted to clarify that in this story, vampires CAN go out in the daytime, but prefer not to because they have very sensitive skin and eyes. I had to do it this way to make the story flow better. Anyway, hope you enjoy!

The air was thick with tension as both men sat in silence. Neither wanted to be the first to speak - one resigned to glaring through dark-tinted lenses, the other sitting patiently with a grin on his face. The smiling man chose to speak first. "It was so kind of you to finally meet with me, Eiri-san. I know busy you can be."

"Cut the bullshit, Tohma," Eiri snapped. Reaching into his coat pocket, he pulled out a cigarette and lighter. Lighting the stick, he slouched further into the couch and crossed his legs.

Tohma frowned. "You know, I would prefer it if you didn't smoke in my office."

"And you know how much I hate coming out during the day, so why don't we call ourselves even," he snarled.

Tohma was somewhat surprised by the writer's foul mood. Although he would never be considered pleasant, he was even moodier than usual. As much as he was concerned, however, he knew that it would be better not to ask.

Eiri was growing impatient from this game. He had done what was asked by showing up and now they were waiting for the idiot singer to show up. Eiri did not like the idea of helping some spoiled brat learn how to write, but felt that, with all Tohma had done for him, it was the least he could do. If it hadn't been for the sly blonde, Eiri's condition would have been revealed to his family long ago. Even so, it didn't mean he had to like it.

Eiri also had to admit that he was at fault for his own irritation, as well. He had not been sleeping well and, for some reason, did not feel like prowling the night before. Because of his lack of sustenance, his senses were unusually spiked. Even the scent of Tohma from across the room was causing his mind to feel hazy. As much as he wanted to, he knew that he could not take from the man right then. What if someone were to see them? His blood and the slight scent of perspiration was driving Eiri crazy. He wanted to get this meeting over with as soon as possible. At least if he were to go home and sleep, he could hunt once it got dark. He never hunted during the day, since the light hurt his eyes.

Extinguishing his cigarette on the soul of his shoe, Eiri glanced around the office. There were numerous photos of musicians alongside countless awards and plaques. He never took time to notice how successful his brother-in-law was. Sure, he knew about how much influence the man had, but he never really took time to ponder it. His eyes fell on a photograph of Tohma himself, surrounded by a woman with long, lavender-colored hair and a shorter man with green hair. He immediately recognized the two as the other members of Tohma's disbanded group, Nittle Grasper. Deciding to break the silence, Eiri cleared his throat. "Find anyone good enough to match that idiot?"

Tohma's lips curled in a genuine smile. By 'idiot', he knew that Eiri was referring to the lead singer of Nittle Grasper, Sakuma Ryuichi. The man's child-like exuberance and mentality was a far cry from the sex-idol he personified on stage. Tohma knew that his behavior was a facade, one that allowed people to generally not take him seriously. Tohma was always aware of this act, but felt that if it was how the man wanted to live, it was not his place to try and change it. "Everyone who works for me has their own charm. Ryuichi was one-of-a-kind, so...no, I haven't heard anyone sing quite like him." His mind began twisting around the image of a young singer. "However, there is one boy who has the potential to exceed Sakuma-san one day. He just needs a little push."

Eiri turned his gaze to the other blonde. "Coming from you, I guess one would take that as a compliment. Who is he?"

Tohma reclined in his chair, relaxing. "You'll be meeting him any time now." At Eiri's questioning expression, he continued. "He is the one you will be helping."

Eiri scoffed. "He can't be much of a prodigy if he can't even write his own songs."

Tohma shook his head. "I never said he couldn't write. I merely felt that his voice would benefit from a professional source. No need to waste good talent, after all. Besides, I have a feeling you will like this one."

Eiri did not miss the mischievous twinkle in the aquamarine eyes. Before he could speak out his curiosity, a knock sounded at the door.

XXX

Shuichi's voice trailed off with the end of the song. Opening his eyes, he glanced at his two bandmates, proud to see their smiling faces. "How was that?"

Suguru, stoic as ever, shrugged. "I guess it will do."

Hiro shot the younger boy a warning look before approaching his friend. Throwing his arm over the slim shoulder, he hugged him and smiled. "That was great, Shu. I can't wait for Seguchi-san to see how much progress we've made after practicing this song all weekend."

Shuichi nodded in agreement as the three made their way out of the sound booth. Shuichi immediately went to the cooler and retrieved a bottle of cold water to sooth his aching throat. Even though he was used to singing, he was still not physically prepared for the torture his vocal cords were being put through. He could only hope that he would get used to it with time.

After taking a long drink from the bottle, Shuichi joined Hiro on the worn-out sofa near the wall. "Yeah, I'm sure he wouldn't be disappointed in us. I'm just worried because K-san said that I need to write two new songs by the end of the week. I can't even put two words together with all of this stress, much less a song." He let his head fall into his hands as he sighed. "What am I supposed to do?"

Hiro's heart sank with the pitiful tone of Shuichi's voice. He hated seeing his friend so distressed. He patted the boy gently on his back. "It'll be okay, Shu. You just need to find some inspiration, that's all. I'm sure it will come to you."

Shuichi turned his head to give Hiro a grateful smile, but was startled when he heard the door slam open. Looking over, he watched as K and Sakano entered the room. Sakano, as nervous as ever, approached Shuichi. "The President would like to see you in his office immediately, Shindo-san."

Shuichi's smile faded immediately as dread creeped in. "Do you know what about?"

Sakano shook his head. "No, I just got the message. I'd hurry up if I were you. You don't want to keep Seguchi-san waiting."

"No, I guess not," Shuchi mumbled, standing up. He gave a quick, worried glance to Hiro before walking out of the studio.

What am I so worried about...it's not like I did anything wrong, right? The entire way to Tohma's office was spent pondering the question. Not a single thing came to mind that would indicate why the President wanted to see him. He could feel tears stinging behind his eyes as he thought that he did something that would ruin their chance with NG.

By the time he reached the door to Tohma's office, he was a nervous wreck. He couldn't find the courage to knock on the door, so he simply stared at it. He must have been frozen for some time before he heard a throat clearing. Jumping at the sudden noise, he looked over to see the secretary, an amused smile on her face. "You may go in, he is expecting you."

Shuichi nodded and knocked on the solid wood door. After a moment he heard a soft "Come in."

Holding his breath, he pushed the doors open and stepped inside. His eyes immediately found the blonde sitting behind his mahogany desk. Meeting the man's overwhelming gaze, he shifted nervously. "You wanted to see me, Seguchi-san?"

"Yes, Shindo-san, please take a seat." Tohma gestured towards one of the two chairs in sitting opposite of him across his desk. Shuichi automatically followed his orders and found himself sitting nervously in the comfortable chair. Tohma looked him up and down quickly before smiling. "There are a few things we need to discuss."

Shuichi's anxiety was threatening to spill over. "If there was anything I did wrong, I swear I will do whatever-"

He trailed off as he noticed Tohma waving his hand dismissively. "You misunderstand, Shindo-san. I have spoken with your manager and am pleased with your progress so far. To get to matters at hand, K-san tells me that you need to have two new songs written by the end of the week?"

Shuichi nodded. "Yes, even though we are only working on the one song for a single, he wants me to have more ready to go."

Tohma nodded. "Well, I know that all of this may be overwhelming you somewhat, so I have enlisted the help of a dear friend to help you with the lyrics."

Shuichi bristled slightly. Help with the lyrics? He was both confused and offended by this. Although he knew he was not the best song-writer out there, he always put his heart and soul into the words and, as a result, they were sometimes quite personal. He did not like the idea of someone dictating what he should be doing.

Tohma could see the wash of emotions over the singer's face and tried to console him. "I assure you that this will still be entirely your work. Uesugi-san will simply help to put your thoughts in better order. He will not be taking anything away from your lyrics, simply help make them better." He became very serious as he finished, the smile leaving his face. "This is a rough business, Shindo-san. I expect the most out of all of my musicians, as I have told you before. This is the best opportunity to make sure your band lives up to it's expectations."

Shuichi was not so dense as to miss the underlying tone in the statement. Wiping the disappointment from his face, he gave a weak smile. "So when do I meet this...Uesugi-san?"

Tohma smiled at Shuichi's acceptance. "He is sitting behind you." Shuichi whipped around in surprise to find another man in the room with them. "Shindo Shuichi, meet Uesugi Eiri."

Shuichi was at a loss for words as he stood and gave a polite bow. The man sitting on the couch was...breathtaking. Even though his eyes were hidden behind black-tinted glasses, he had remarkable beauty. His golden-blond hair fell just past his ears and framed his fair skin perfectly. He wore a long black trench-coat with a gray button-down shirt underneath. He wore black dress pants and his long legs were crossed, his ankle hanging over the opposite knee. He had no expression on his face, but Shuichi could not help but wonder what his eyes looked like.

He's...beautiful...

Shuichi could do nothing but stare dumbly at the older man, wondering why he didn't say anything. After what seemed like an eternity to the singer, the man finally stood. He watched as Eiri reached into his pocket and pulled out a cigarette and lit it with a lighter in his other hand. Exhaling, the man turned his face towards Tohma. "This is the kid you want me to help?"

Tohma smiled. "That's right, Eiri-san."

Eiri glanced once more at singer before turning and walking away. Shuichi was extremely hurt that the man did not even seem to acknowledge him. Before the door closed behind him, the guy paused without looking back. "Find someone else, Tohma. I don't work with idiots."

XXX

Eiri walked to his car as quickly as he could without drawing unwanted attention. His heart was racing wildly by the time he closed the door of his Mercedes, locking him inside. The last thing he had expected was to see the boy there. Not only there, but standing right in front of him, within arms reach. He was used to their encounters being one-sided at best, the boy in a trance. Having him conscious, breathing, and animated right in front of him was too much.

And his damn scent drove him crazy...

He cursed and slammed his hand on the steering wheel. It took all he had to sit there in silence when the boy first walked in. He was thankful, for once, that his eyes were sensitive and required him to wear sunglasses during the day. He had no doubt that his eyes would have given him away. There was no way he could work with the boy. He pulled his keys out of his coat pocket and started the engine.

Shuichi...

And what was with that knowing smirk Tohma had? He certainly wouldn't suspect that I have been using the boy, could he?

By the time Eiri had reached his house, he had more questions than answers. One thing continued to plague his mind. What were his feelings towards that boy? Certainly his blood was superb, but then...why couldn't he stop thinking about him? He had known that the boy was cute - beautiful even- but he was even more attractive when the light shown behind his eyes. Up until this point, those violets were always empty when he fed due to the trance. Today...they sparkled.

Eiri cursed himself and slammed the door behind him. Making his way into his bedroom, he landed unceremoniously onto his bed. He brushed his thoughts aside, finally dismissing them as effects from his hunger. "I should know better than to go a night without eating," he mumbled to himself.

Allowing his eyes to slip shut, he decided to get some sleep and, come tonight, find someone to ease his hunger.

It's not good for him to get involved with me anyway...

XXX

Shuich stared blankly at the closed door. The man, Eiri, had basically insulted him before slamming it shut behind him. Even though he didn't even know the stranger, he felt incredibly hurt from the insult. Shuichi was not the type of person who was brushed aside often. In fact, he liked to think that he was generally liked. Why, then, did this guy dislike him so much?

"I apologize for his behavior, Shindo-san."

Shuichi was startled, forgetting that the other man was still in the room. He turned around, eyes downcast. "It's alright, Seguchi-san. I don't know why, but I don't think that he wants to work with me."

"No need to worry. I will talk some sense into him. For now, why don't you meet with your band and take the rest of the day off?"

Shuichi nodded and made his way out the door without another word.

Once the boy was gone, Tohma sighed and sat down. Although he was confused at his brother-in-law's behavior, he now knew enough to say that there was some connection between the two. No matter how blunt the writer could be, he was never so forcefully rude. He had accepted the job last week, but it wasn't until he met Shindo that he turned him away. This was something he had never done with a previous singer.

He sat back into a more comfortable position. The boy seemed genuinely ignorant, so Tohma was pretty sure that the boy did not know Eiri. Eiri, on the other hand, had acting strangely both today and at the performance they had seen a week ago. This meant that Eiri knew the boy from somewhere, but he did not normally keep friends. The only way Tohma could figure he knew the singer was if he had fed from him. This, however likely, did not account entirely for his behavior, however. He highly doubted that Eiri had never run into one of his 'meals' before, but this was the first time he behaved differently around them. There must have been more to what he felt for the singer.

This thought struck him like lightning.

Feelings? Did Eiri have certain feelings towards the boy?

The more Tohma contemplated this, the more it made sense. Most people, when faced with the opportunity to be close to a love interest, would embrace the idea. Eiri, on the other hand, was the complete opposite. Because he had been betrayed by Yuki, he did not lend himself easily to affectionate feelings. If he had an interest in another person, he would instinctively push them away so that they would not betray him as well.

Or to protect them.

Tohma was not a foolish man. He knew that Kitazawa was a possessive lover. When he was here, he kept Eiri wrapped around his finger, hardly letting him out of his sight. If Eiri had a weaker disposition, he would most likely be in America right now with his temperamental sire. Eiri had argued his way into being able to stay and Yuki had reluctantly left, without saying when he would return.

Perhaps Eiri was attracted to this boy and that is why he pushed him away.

Yuki would most certainly take his jealousy out on Shuichi.

Tohma turned his chair around to gaze at the Tokyo skyline. He had a lot to think about. On one hand, he did not want to endanger Shuichi. He was such a unique and friendly boy. Eiri should not have to take the responsibility of being the cause of his 'punishment' at the hands of Kitazawa. On the other hand, Shuichi may be the very person to make Eiri happy, free him from his life. Judging by the expression that was on Shuichi's face when he met him, he was very attracted to the writer. Tohma wanted nothing more than to see his brother-in-law smile...and he had a feeling that Shuichi could make it happen.

If only they could find some way around their obstacle -- Kitazawa.

XXX

Shuichi dragged his feet as he walked out of the elevator on the third floor. He was uncharacteristically depressed and could not hide it. He had never been rejected by anyone before. "The jerk didn't even let me say 'hi' before he stormed off," he mumbled to himself.

Walking into the studio, he informed the band and K that Seguchi-san gave them the rest of the day off to rest. Hiro, noticing the dejected look on his friend's face, laid a hand on his shoulder. "Are you alright, Shu?"

Shuichi offered a weak smile but nodded. "I'll be fine. I'm not in trouble or anything." Hiro gave him a disbelieving look and scowled. Trying to ease his mind, Shuichi gave his arm a reassuring squeeze. "I'm okay, Hiro. I just want to go home and rest. I still have lyrics to work on."

Hiro, sensing Shuichi's stubborness, relented. "Okay, but do you want a ride home?"

Shuichi shook his head. "No, I feel like walking today. It's not too chilly out."

Hiro nodded and retreated to the couch to grab his jacket. Throwing Shuichi his jacket and messenger bag, they two said their goodbye's to Suguru and K before making their way downstairs.

Hiro hopped onto his bike as it roared to life. Before slipping his helmet on, he turned to his friend. "Call me if you need anything, okay Shu?"

Shuichi smiled. "I will, don't worry."

Shuichi watched as his friend disappeared around the corner before he started towards home. He was hoping a good walk would help clear his mind.

Shuichi arrived at his apartment just as the sun was beginning to set, allowing an orange glow to fill the sky. He walked into his apartment and closed the door behind him. Feeling tired from today's practice, he decided to get a little sleep before starting the new lyrics. Stripping from his jacket and shoes, he fell into his bed and was asleep within minutes.

XXX

When Shuichi opened his eyes, the room was dark and the full moon created shadows that spilled over his covers. Groaning, he turned over and looked at his bedside clock. it was two o'clock in the morning. Rubbing the sleep from his eyes, he shoved the heavy comforter to the foot of the bed and stood up. Great, I just wasted all that time I should have been working.

On his way to the living room, he grabbed his notebook from the messenger bag he had tossed by the doorway. Pen in hand, sank into the couch and opened to a fresh page. His mind continued to drift to the meeting he had with Tohma. He knew that Tohma meant well by bringing in someone to help him. It was his company, after all, and knew what was best. But why had that man been so...

"Grrr..."

He threw down the pad and pen and kicked the objects away from himself. He couldn't bring himself to concentrate. He stood up and stretched his legs. After walking to the kitchen for a glass of water, he stopped in front of his window. The thin curtains had already been drawn back, allowing him to view the clear night sky.

Maybe I just need a change of atmosphere, he thought.

Smiling at his own genius, he walked into his bedroom to slip on his shoes and jacket. Making sure he had his keys and cellphone, he retrieved the abused notebook and walked out of the apartment.

The night air was crisp and refreshing, helping Shuichi throw off the remnants of sleep. There was no one out at this time of night, the only sound heard was coming from his own two feet. He wasn't really paying attention to where he was going, and he soon found himself standing beside a familiar wrought-iron gate.

Deciding that the park would be the best place to find inspiration, he found his way onto the worn cobblestone path. His eyes fell to the river and watches as the wind caught on the ripples of the water. If only this place could be this peaceful all of the time.

After a few minutes of walking, he came across an inviting bench and he decided to sit down and try to write. It wasn't long before his eyelids became heavy. He pulled his legs to rest beside him on the bench, getting more comfortable. He tapped the pen on the pad, trying to keep himself awake. No words were coming to him.

After several minutes, he felt his head begin to droop and his eyes started to fall shut of their own accord. In the back of his mind, he could hear the faint sound of footsteps, but his body did not want to respond.

The footsteps stopped a short distance away from him. "You're going to get sick sleeping out here."

XXX

Eiri roused himself from his bed when it was still early in the morning. His sleep was restless at best, his hunger keeping him awake. Frustrated, he threw the covers off and climbed out of bed. After walking over to his closet, he dressed quickly in the dark before leaving the room.

The rest of the house was, as usual, silent. He liked it that way. It reminded him that he was not there.

He walked into the kitchen and pulled out a small plate of noodles. He heated the dish in the microwave and took a seat on a stool by the counter. Although he did not technically need regular food to survive, he still found it to be a comfort. It would not stave off his inhuman hunger, but it helped to dull it temporarily.

Finishing his meal and rinsing the plate in the sink, he glanced at his watch and noticed that it was just after two in the morning. He figured that there was no better time to go out scouting for his real meal. Pulling on his shoes and long black coat, he pocketed his keys and cigarettes. He walked outside and locked the door behind him.

The chilly air was a dramatic contrast to the warm air in his house. The night was quiet and he immediately decided to go to his favorite hunting ground.

Walking a few blocks before he crossed the street, he met with the familiar trees that surrounded the park. Rounding the corner, he found himself on the uneven stone path that encompassed the secluded area. He was thankful for the food filling his stomach, he did not want to lose control when he found his 'dinner'.

It wasn't long before he heard the sound of approaching footsteps. He opened his senses. Female. Young. Perfect, he thought. The woman came into view a few seconds later. She was a homely-looking woman with long black hair and a tired expression. Eiri was relieved to have found someone so quickly. It meant that he could go home soon.

He took a few steps towards the figure, who happened to be dressed in a waitress uniform. A second before he made his move, something stopped him. There was an unusual scent coming from this woman. It took him a moment to recognize it, just enough time to side-step woman and continue on his way.

The smell was faint, but distinct for someone with his abilities. She was a mother. The scent of a child clung to her like a brand. He would be damned if he orphaned some brat.

He cursed himself for the close call and kept walking deeper into the park. It was several more minutes of slow walking before he picked up on another scent - this one was definitely familiar.

Sure enough, several yards away on a bench, was the same person who had been causing him so much grief. Maybe I should just drain him to rid myself of this pathetic infatuation.

He shook his head. There was no way he could bring himself to do something like that. It wasn't the boy's fault, after all. He wasn't even aware of his part in all of this.

The boy was sitting rather comfortably on a wooden bench, a reflection of white on his lap. Upon closer inspection he saw that it was a notebook. He now stood only a few feet away from the boy whose scent caused every fiber in his body to tingle. He was obviously very tired, his head gently lowering towards his chest. His feet were curled on the bench close to him and his fingers wrapped loosely around a pen, the other resting on top of a blank sheet of paper. He felt a pang of guilt all of the sudden. Had he been having trouble? I was supposed to help him...

Deciding that it was too chilly outside to just leave the boy sleep, he brushed aside his hesitation. "You're going to get sick sleeping out here."

Shuichi's head snapped up quickly although his eyes took a little longer to focus. When he saw the man standing in front of him, he was at a loss for words. Eiri stood in front of him, looking cool and collected, while he sat gaping like fish out of water.

Narrowing his eyes, Eiri glared at the boy. "What are you doing out here, anyway, kid?"

Shuichi snapped out of his daze. "I'm not kid! I do have a name, you know. I'm Shuichi, not 'kid' or 'idiot'."

Eiri marveled at the realization that Shuichi was even cuter when he was angry. His cheeks puffed up indignantly, eyes flaring, and a soft blush on his cheeks...

"Only an idiot would fall asleep on a public bench in the middle of the night. Do what you want, don't cry to me when you get a fever." Eiri sat down on the bench beside the singer and stretched his legs out. Being this close to the boy was wearing him thin, but he had to don an air of indifference, if only for his own pride.

Shuichi felt the heat rise to his cheeks when the blonde sat next to him. Why does he have to be so damned good-looking. It was then that he remembered how rude Eiri had been earlier and he began feeling depressed. Not wanting to beat around the bush, he cleared his throat. "I'm not sure what your problem is, but Seguchi-san was really hoping that you would help me." He tore his gaze from his shoes to look into the man's eyes.

When he locked his violet orbs with Eiri's golden, he froze. He remembered that he did not see the other man's eyes before now. They were absolutely beautiful, almost hypnotic. He found it hard to breath with the man looking at him so intently.

"What's your point?" The man snapped.

Shuichi didn't know how to react from the tone in Eiri's voice, but he didn't want to back down from him, either. His gaze unwavering, he asked the one question that had been bothering him. "Why...why don't you like me?"

The question caught Eiri off guard. Sure, he had been pushing the boy away, but he didn't think that he was being that harsh. But, why then, was there a hesitant look in those eyes clouded with moisture? He felt a pang of guilt - it was not his intention to bring the boy to the verge of tears. Not knowing what else to do, he stood up and began walking away.

Shuichi was hurt and angry all at once as Eiri turned his back on him. Am I not even worth an answer? His hands curled into fists against his thighs. He was about to lose his temper, but then he heard the footsteps stop.

Eiri knew that he was going to regret what he was going to do, but for some reason, common sense seemed to leave him. He stopped walking and turned his head slightly to speak over his shoulder. "Are you coming, or what?"

Shuichi sat their stupefied. "Huh?"

Eiri sighed. "I thought you wanted help. My place is not far from here." He started walking towards his house, knowing the boy would follow.

It took him a few seconds to react, but Shuichi managed to jump to his feet and chase after the blonde.

XXX

"Wow, this place is nice," Shuichi praised.

Eiri shrugged his shoulders and closed the door behind him. He hung up his coat and motioned for Shuichi to hand over his. Once their shoes were left in the foyer, the two entered the living room and Shuichi sat on the couch. "Do you want something? Water, beer, coffee?"

Shuichi shook his head and Eiri joined him on the couch. He did not know what he was thinking bringing the kid to his house, but at that point there wasn't anything else he could do. For whatever reason, he did not feel comfortable sending the kid on his way home at this time of night. He was too cute to be walking alone...

Eiri relaxed back into the couch as Shuichi watched him out of the corner of his eye. He's so handsome, but cold...I wonder why?

Suddenly hit with a wave of inspiration, Shuichi hurriedly opened his notebook and began jotting down words. Intrigued, Eiri turned his head slightly, although trying to hide the fact that he was interested. He could not make out the sloppy handwriting and soon became frustrated. "Oi, brat, what are you writing?"

Shuichi took only a second to lift his head and glare at him. "I'm not 'brat', damn it. How many times do I have to tell you that?"

Eiri felt the corners of his mouth twitch but fought the urge. The boy was undeniable tempting when he was angry, but he'd be damned if he was going to smile. "Whatever. What are you doing?"

Finishing off what he had been writing, he read it over and peeked at Eiri almost shyly. "Just some lyrics that came to my head just now."

Eiri held out his hand and motioned for Shuichi to hand him the book. Shuichi, happy to have finally written something, gladly handed it over. He waited silently as he watched Eiri's eyes travel over his words, waiting for the critique. After a few minutes of silence, Eiri tossed the book onto the table. "You call that crap a love song? You have zero talent for songwriting."

Without waiting for a response, Eiri stood up and walked into the kitchen, leaving behind a speechless Shuichi.

He sat there on the couch with his mouth hanging open. W-What?!

Eiri grabbed a beer from the refrigerator before returning to the living room. Shuichi glared heatedly at him and jumped to his feet. His face was flushed in frustration and his eyes narrowed at the blonde. He clenched his hands into fists and held them at his sides. "Did you have to be so harsh about it?! Who the hell are you to say anything anyway? Aren't you supposed to be helping me, not insulting me?"

As he was talking, Eiri found that his feet moved of their own accord, closing the distance between the two. By the time Shuichi was done yelling, he was slightly out of breath, his cheeks a faint pink. He continued to glare at Eiri with fire in his eyes.

Eiri did not know what came over him, but in that moment all of his inhibitions seemed to abandon him. He dropped the can onto the couch and reached his hand to lay it on Shuichi's cheek. So soft... Leaning forward slightly, his face only a few inches from the other, he whispered to the boy. "You know...you are a little bit cute right now."

Shuichi did not know what to do but watch as Eiri's lips descended, closing the gap between them. As soon as they met, Shuichi felt as if his legs had turned to jelly and found it hard to stand. Eiri placed his hand on the small of his back in order to steady him. Shuichi, feeling incredibly comfortable, closed his eyes and sighed into the kiss.

The sound of the gentle sigh brought Eiri back to his senses. Almost immediately, he released his hold on the boy and grabbed the can from where he had dropped it. Looking at Shuichi's glazed eyes, he managed to find his voice. "You may as well sleep here, you can have the couch. It is too late for you to go anywhere now."

Before waiting for a response, Eiri sharpened his gaze and placed Shuichi in a trance. The taste of his lips had brought his hunger back to life and he did not want to wait any longer. If the boy slept so near to him after another night without feeding...he did not want to take the chance that he might kill him.

Leaning forward, he wrapped his arms around the slim waist and sunk his teeth into the desirable neck. The euphoria that he felt from this boy alone resurfaced and he found himself lost in the sound of his pulse. Receiving his fill, he was able to break away before the steady rhythm faltered. Healing the wound, he used his shirt sleeve to wipe the red essence from Shuichi's neck as well as his own mouth before bringing the boy back to consciousness.

Shuichi blinked rapidly several times once he was released. "Y-Yeah," he stammered. "I feel...really tired all of the sudden." His eyes began to close but Eiri was able to catch him before he fell to the floor.

Feeling more than a little guilty, he laid the delicate body comfortable on the couch and covered him with the throw that he kept over the back of the sofa. Tucking him in so that he would not be cold during the night, he stood and began walking towards his bedroom. Turning the light off on the way, he gave one last look at the boy before closing the door behind him.

Undressing and pulling on a pair of sweat pants, he crawled into bed and pulled the covers around him. His mind was racing a mile a minute. What prompted him to kiss Shuichi? He had never before felt so...unable to control his own actions. Did he want the boy so badly that he was willing to fight for him?

Fight...

His mind immediately envisioned his sire. Yuki would definitely be an obstacle...one that Eiri was not sure he could overcome.

Groaning, he rolled over and buried his face into the soft pillow. What am I doing?

TBC...

A.N. I hope you liked it. R&R please!