Sue me! Come on people, sue me already!! I can't believe I'm neglecting Lonely without you and Alien World because of this. But I just couldn't help myself. Damn temptation and its ugly one eyed face with two horns! I don't have much to say except that I didn't get as many reviews as I expected which makes John a bad boy. Now that was incoherent but really, no fair!
Thanks to Tarnished Iota to keep up her nagging of completing this before doing anything else. Hmm…so I guess the whole blame does not go to ugly one eyed face with two horns temptation…
Please R&R this time. The hits are not encouraging like they are usually and seriously; you guys do not want a sour authoress on your rears. Trust me on this one guys.
Enjoy!
…………
Chapter No. 2
…………
"And……here we are"
Golden eyes turned to stare out in the wet world, mentally shivering at the aspect of leaving the warmth of the car and into the inclement rain, "It's been raining for too long"
"I thought you liked rain"
"The last time I checked, neko-jins do not prefer water pouring down upon them unless it's under a waterfall on a warm sunny day"
Lee grinned and switched off the lights, the darkness of the abandoned alley eagerly enveloping them as the engine's rumble died; their silhouettes visible only due to the green digits of the clock in front.
"Did you bring an umbrella?"
"Hmm…? Yeah, it's on the back seat" Watching the raven haired beauty reaching backwards to grab the said object, Lee could not help to comment, "Say Ray, you're looking stunning"
"You've already told me that twice"
"It's the truth"
Ray pulled back but did not meet the other's eyes, an ancient emotion of repentance stirring in his chest, "Lee…"
The lion held up his hands in surrender, "Okay, okay…man, a guy can't even pass a compliment these days."
"I think I forgot to bring my card" Ray spoke, hand automatically reaching for the wallet
"Nah…don't worry. They know you better than anyone. It's us, mediocre people, who will not be allowed in without the pass"
"Such mediocre people who completely own their grandfather's trade and wealth that can no doubt allow them to buy a village to live in,"
"Well that's beside the point"
Ray just smiled, opening the wallet but a hand halted his actions. Staring at it inquiringly, he raised his eyes to see Lee staring out of the window.
"I think something's going to happen tonight," Dull hues turned to him, portraying some excited gleam, "Something big. At least that's what my horoscope signs say"
"Yeah well mine claim that my stars will be revolving very soon"
"That's a bad omen"
"When did you start being so paranoid?"
"Hey you never know, do you? Besides, being paranoid is much healthier than being- what's that?"
Before Ray could even contemplate what the other was going for, Lee pulled out the projecting edge of a passport size photo from the black holder in his hand.
The reaction was immediate when the mind confirmed that it was indeed a snap shot of one person the lion loathed with his life. Yellow eyes narrowed while the irises shrunk to mere dots, a fang protruding out immediately as adrenaline rushed into his veins, inciting the locked away hatred in his heart, "What-?" He trailed off his inquiry, as if judging whether Ray would be foolish enough to ask for elaboration.
Training his sight down, he gently took the picture of the crimson eyed bluenette and tucked it back into his wallet's inner most pockets.
His knuckles had turned white from where Lee was painfully gripping the steering wheel, not meeting the discouraged prodigy and glowering out from the windshield, watching the drops pellet down like bullets.
"Lee-"
"What?" The said teen seethed, "It's been three long years Ray!"
"It's not as-"
"Come on, he used you!" The lion turned in his seat to raven head who was staring in his lap, "Why can't you just see that? That bastard took you in, screwed you for his own pleasure and when he got bored, he went whoring with another one! How can you, after three fucking long years, even feel something for that insensitive prick Ray?"
Ray closed his eyes, for once successfully keeping the threatening tears at bay. When he opened, his orbs were blank tunnels, devoid of the internal trauma the neko was feeling, the pain as the cruel dagger of reality stab him again and again or the ringing sound as his already broken world collapsed.
Why did Kai do that? It was one question whose answer he was no where near of finding out.
Lee looked at his comrade, shaking his head, "When will you learn? Face the truth and return to the real world. He never loved you. At least not the way you deserved Ray. The ordeal is over. It was all in the past. Why can't you get it through your thick skull that it's high time to catch up with the rest of the humanity and live a normal life?"
Ray let out a shuddering sigh, his mind screaming at him to retaliate and defend but somehow, his broken heart had other things to say. Lee was, after all, right.
The lion breathed out in frustration, running a hand through his thick black hair, "Why can't you just forget him?"
"I don't know…"
Yellow eyes turned to him, "You can't possibly really love anyone this much, to the least, not some fucking arrogant bastard"
Gradually, he took the umbrella that was resting near his feet, not responding to the statement.
Lee shot a look at the digital clock before taking the umbrella from the raven head, "We should as well be going now" With that he opened the door but did not step out. Training his eyes back to the crestfallen neko, he took his chin in between his finger and thumb, forcing the other to make contact.
Ray finally raised his hues to yellow ones, quietly waiting for him.
"I know I sounded very blunt back there Ray, but it's because I don't want you like this. You know that, I can't bear to see you throw you life to waste. It's already a fucked up mess but don't amplify by dwelling on the history, okay?"
The younger blinked and nodded; endeavoring to reach a peaceful verdict there. The last thing he wanted was to be on his friend's bad side.
"Well come on then" The lion kicked open the door, before getting out. Walking around the automobile, he opened the passenger's door before extending his hand and giving his usual grin, "Will thy fair maiden honor thee to escort her gentleness to their destination?"
Hoping that there were no traces of held tears in his eyes, Ray raised a single brow at the request before swatting the hand and crossing his arms, feigning to be somewhat offended, "This 'fair maiden', as you so illiterately put, is capable of escorting her gentleness to her destination herself, sir knight"
"Don't be a spoil sport and go with the act for once"
"I'd rather fire Tania"
"Wow, really?"
"Don't get your hopes up" Ray laughed if ever so quietly, allowing the lion to pull him out of the car and under the shelter of the umbrella. He was going to take it but Lee took his hand and bringing it to his lips, placed a gradual kiss on the unmarred tanned skin of the knuckles.
"You do look gorgeous, Ray"
"If that's the case then may be I should've gone for that Beauty Queen Contest after all" Even with such a candid response, a jolt ran down his spine, his cheeks heating up at the act.
"I wouldn't have complained" Lee smirked at the image of the raven head amongst those highly powdered, beauty freaks. Wouldn't that make his day?
"Let's just go now before Tania sends a whole search team"
"I'll tell you, that girl bosses you around too much and she's not even the boss yet"
Ray mentally rolled his eyes before walking towards the giant doors for staff's back entrance, trying hard to act immune to tingling that had spread over the place where those lips had touched him on the hand.
…………
Eyes deep shades of violet with a thin streak of silver enlightening them gazed up as a raven haired teen approached them. Long midnight dark hair tied securely in a high ponytail with a few stray locks, tinted purple, cascading before the contrast pale skin and said hues. Clad in skin-tight white blouse and black pants with waist long emerald jacket around the noticeable curves; a name plate with slanting golden inscription showing status and name.
Leaning against the mahogany reception podium with both elbows placed on the polished surface, light glossed lips parted, "Considering that this whole development can somewhat bring a few rays of light in your upcoming bleak raining days, you sure took your time, Ray"
"Lee held me back"
"Why am I not surprised?" Nodding to another passing staff member, Tania continued, "So how many times?"
Raven bangs moved to and fro simultaneously as the teen shook his head, bemused, "He told me at my door, during the drive, in the parking lot, entering the lobby and yeah, just in the kitchen now. About half a dozen times"
"You are so lucky, aren't you?"
"Depends on your definition of luck"
Tania laughed at his expense, "Well, ignoring the fact that I'm agreeing with Lee, you do look great. Just one little adjustment left"
Ray watched as she pulled out an engraved name plate from her pocket and drawing closer, pinned it on the left side of his jacket. It read; Ray Kon, Staff Executive.
"There"
"You were not suppose to give me this until I hand over my card"
"Nah, don't worry Ray. No one has the leisure time to bother with making clones of you. You're not that famous yet"
"Well then how's everything proceeding, 'Madam Staff Coordinator'?" Golden eyes strayed at the engraving before registering her for a reply
Tania would have countered back the slight tease but decided against it. Instead, pulling a small pad and pen, she spoke, "The staff's all here and the cooks are ready. The maestro had given a yes and will be starting any minute now. Drinks and the arrangements have been gone through twice. We are expecting the guests to arrive in less than twenty minutes. Else than that, unless a major catastrophe blows it's one eyed ugly face with two horns in, I think we'll make it through the night in one piece."
"Ray," Both teens turned as a man in his late fifties though posture stout and proud, walked towards them in a traditional but highly exclusive dress. Despite the age factor, the hairs were still in light shades of black and grey, bond in a stiff loop at the back. The man gave him a welcome nod, "You and Lee had me worried there. You do realize this event should be given your utmost responsibility, young man"
"I'm sorry, uncle. Just got tangled with a few things"
"Well be grateful this decent lady is willing to save you from half of the havoc. If the committee decides in favor of you, this could be a great promotion for all our chains of restaurants let alone your own place and not to mention your relatives could take some profit out of it"
His uncle's restaurant had been nominated for one of the top twenty eateries present in Hong Kong and thus some commission decided upon having bit of a contest to see the best at work. Not that it was fame the big cheese was looking for. His main task had been organizing a whole social gathering of some monarch from somewhere in USSR. And the old man had asked Ray and his small staff to assist him this time for future experience.
They had been booked in Czar's, the four star restaurant of Ray's uncle's associate for the evening. The place was huge and lavish and it took the neko two days to affiliate himself with the entire holding. The main marbled dining hall was unoccupied with the exception of waiters in white shirts and emerald pants and skirts marching hither and thither, making last minutes improvements for the start of the ball.
"You better have a last look in the kitchen, Ray. And then get back here"
"What? No, I'm not receiving the guests, Tania"
A thin brow rose, "Pray tell why?"
"I don't do the whole 'Welcome and so nice you came' thing"
"Well you better start practicing, nephew," His Uncle Tahoe spoke, "Because there are a few acquaintances I would prefer you to meet" With that he went off, leaving the two again.
Watching his retreating relative, Ray adjusted his velvet bandana, "I don't have a good feeling about this"
"Your uncle introducing you to some aristocrats and their irksome daughters or this whole ordeal"
"Both"
"You're not usually this bleak, Ray, especially when it comes to being part of such large scale banquets"
"I have a potent feeling that goes on the bad side about this one"
Tania smiled at his insecurity, "So you became psychic and paranoid after spending fifteen minutes in a car with Lee?"
"Hey, you never know, do you? Besides, he thinks it's healthy"
"Well considering he had spent his entire life with you, I will classify it sane, as much as it don't sound like"
"What is that suppose to mean?"
The twenty year old female grinned, "Don't fry your brains now little bro, we will be needing them later when the girls go goo-goo eyes on you"
Ray waved it off before leaving the posh lobby. Leave it to Tania to bring him out of his dark shadow. But even as he made his way towards the grand kitchen doors, his thoughts went over the conversation he had with a certain black haired neko. As much as he hated to think about it in a time like this, one thing stood assured; whether Lee had intended to or not then, he had driven the nail right through his head. And it was killing him right now.
Something big is going to happen, Ray thought, but whatever it is, it will blow over.
Albeit the confirmation, some part of his mind kept nagging that this was not likely.
…………
Golden eyes swept over the space, a deep feeling of contentment enveloping his body at the progress of the banquet. The guests had taken their part of drinks and starters and seemed satisfied enough. The many of the grand crystal chandeliers' light illumined the whole hall in its soft glow, radiating the peaceful firmament as their young progenies proceeded to the vacant floor for a round of couple dance.
Swerving between small groups of ladies wearing best designer's clothes with fluffy minks draped around their shoulders and laughing ever so elegantly, Ray walked with somewhat a dozen drinks balanced in a classy manner on a silver tray, the whole difficult feat not once altering his silent cat-like walk.
"Ray," He stopped to see Tania making a bee line towards him in those high heels, trying hard not to look fretful as she passed a group of foreigners in their early twenties no doubt, "Hide, your uncle is on the hunt for you-"
"There you are" Before none of them could react, another waiter, someone from the said uncle's staff, appeared in front of them out of nowhere, "Master Kon, your Uncle Tahoe expects you"
"Uh…tell him he's not here…?"
"Miss Tania, I'm most surprised at this felony!"
"Well, I need to give these drinks-"
"Not to worry, young sir, I'll handle it. I must say I am impressed," The aged person smiled through his bushy mustache at Ray, taking the tray despite his open reluctance, "After all, this event could not have been conducted better. Now off you go" With that, he turned on his heels and marched off.
Ray gave Tania a withering look, trying to discern some advice but only receiving a resigned expression in the end, "Just so you know, whosoever that celebrity is, he's got four daughters."
"Oh joy"
Violet eyes winked at him playfully as he straightened up and made his way to the corner of the ball room which was lined with golden iron-rod chairs and tables with white linen sheets and exclusive candle stands in the middle. Huge glass windows covered the whole wall with spiral pillars in between and a beautiful balcony out side. Sure enough, his old relative stood with his back to the occupied dance floor with two other Chinese nobles and five ladies in total.
"Ah, here he is," Ray's uncle spoke after noticing him nearby, "This is my nephew Ray Kon, gentlemen. He's the one I was just telling you about"
"Quite a fine lad you have there, Tahoe," One of the elderly men said as he bowed respectfully in greeting, "So you're now assisting your uncle in La Xian I see."
"Yes sir"
"And what do you intend to plan in near future?"
The neko smiled politely, "I haven't decided anything peculiar, sir. It all depends"
The shortest and beefiest of the whole crowd chuckled, his over large belly straining under the fine leather belt he wore across the waist, "Well he's a free spirit! Of course kids of his age wouldn't like to be coop up in some dingy restaurant all the day long, eh?"
"It's just a past time. His father's family had been one of the initiators of this world wide cooking business so it's only natural for him to have proper knowledge how to handle this. You do remember how The Deluxe went up the ladder after…"
Golden eyes peeked from the corner as small shy laughter reached his ears. Dressed in kimonos and glass sandals with black hair tied in buns, were the four young ladies, all seemingly in their teens except the youngest, looking at him from behind the delicate cane fans in somewhat a bashful way.
"Ah, these are my daughters. The eldest is one of the committee members and will be voting for the nominees of this year Honk Kong's best eateries" The tall man introduced.
A second tallest out of the four gently lowered her head in greeting to which Ray bowed as well.
"Why don't you take one of them to dance nephew?"
Ray remained impassive before providing a small smile and nodding. It was very important to be as much traditional and established among the class he had come to live in. Customs and ways still had that ancient modest touch in them yet none could classify them as backward.
"Well that would make a gentleman of him. Go ahead, Mira, Yume," the elder persuaded.
The neko waited for one of them to response for he was not ready to ask himself as to offend any of them. The fact that they were all beautiful and equally enchanting did not heed for him to make a choice. Instead, seemingly the youngest of the sisters, an ebony head stepped forward.
"It will be a pleasure"
"The pleasure is all mine" Taking the young one's hand and leading her to the large dance floor, for a moment he thought whether she was even in her teens yet. The eyes sparkled mischief and something about that face told Ray that the whole meek façade was just a display forced to be put on in the presence of strangers.
Gloved fingers entwined with his and a hand was laid on his shoulder. From where he had an arm around her waist, she was quite shorter than him but no doubt tall for her own age, "The name's Tea"
"Ray Kon"
She smiled, "My father knows your uncle well I think"
"Indeed"
"Is it true that you own a whole restaurant?"
"Not actually. It was new and needed supervising so I just took over to assist since it's hard for my uncle"
"And you like it?"
"Pretty much I'd say. I'm taking two years off my college for this" Ray mentally noted that all that humbleness was down the drain now that the girl was not confounded by the presence of her elders. "What's your age?"
He could practically see a childish amused glint igniting in those hues, "I just turned twelve"
"Really," Ray mused, "You look mature than that"
"Look who's talking? You're what; seventeen? And you have your own dinner place" she grinned, twirling around slowly. She was no where near shy as her siblings
"I will be turning seventeen shortly and beside, would you prefer me to go to those colleges and brood all day long in those dreary lecture rooms?"
"Uh-uh, that wouldn't make you as cool as now"
"I'm pleased to hear that" Ray felt his mood lightening a great deal with the little girl.
They indulged into a short silence, dance moves automatically aligning with the rhythm. Tea looked over to where she had left her family across the threshold before returning her orbs to golden ones again, "Who do you like the most of us?"
Ray blinked at extreme randomness of the inquiry, "What do you mean?"
Tea once more glanced at her sisters, "Who is the most pretty of them?"
Eyebrows raised, the neko tried to maneuver some reply but she beat him to it,
"I think Cho is. She's the second eldest and extremely nice but than Yume and Mira don't come far. Mira's the one in the committee and Yume; she sometimes get on my nerves but I guess that's what older siblings do, right?"
Ray yet again smiled, "You talked about all your three sisters and not yourself. Why?"
She blinked at him before letting out a childish laugh, "I'm not as beautiful as them. My mom says that I'll have my beauty when I grow up. And I can wait for that. Father says I'll be a very elegant woman and honor for the family yet he can't get me to stop climbing all the trees in the garden"
"I can just imagine"
"It's a difficult feat on his behalf," She laughed before turning somewhat somber. "So you're with someone?"
Golden eyes mused over the young prodigy's yet again not-so-coy query. Okay, so they were getting a bit too personal, a bit too fast. Even then Ray couldn't find in him to turn the girl off. Instead he only shook his head once.
"It must be hard being single for you huh?"
"Are you sure you're twelve?"
Tea pouted cutely before glancing down, "I was just curious"
"Well, I can conclude that as much"
"You're not an average human being so it just triggered some nosy instinct in me. I did not mean to offend"
"None taken"
"It must be pleasant living alone, right? I mean then you don't have elder siblings smothering you and hampering you off every second of every hour of every day"
The golden eyes dimmed at the perception and turned to the stare across the house, the old haunting memories of his long period of seclusion briefly materializing in his mind. The reason being the betrayal of a certain crimson eyed teen…
"You look sad Ray"
Jumping out of his short reverie, he turned back to his little dance partner.
"I know, I have a big mouth but did I say something wrong?"
"No but I would disagree with you. Living alone can usually drive people insane. Surely it looks very appealing initially but you try extending some time and you would find your elders' squabbling much more anticipating."
Tea gradually nodded and came to a stop as the music ended so as to halt the dancing ritual. Through the gentle applause from the guests, they bowed before turning back to each other, "Thanks for dance"
"Yeah, I enjoyed your company"
"You're just saying. You think you'll be able to handle me if I visit at La Xian some time?"
Ray chuckled, "I'd be more than happy to have you for a day. Maybe you could learn a thing or two about a restaurant yourself"
She laughed, "Hopefully you'll not regret making that offer. See you"
The neko watched as the twelve year old walked off, the steps becoming lighter and concealed as Tea neared her family. He bowed in reply when her father smiled and nodded to him. Taking it as a cue that the tête-à-tête was over, he left the dance floor, making his way to the buffet table and the dining arrangements.
Now that was refreshing.
"Amazing, you survived!"
Golden eyes turned as the twenty year old appeared beside him, the girl holding a silver tray with a crystal goblet on it, "It wasn't bad"
"Well start partying later Ray. I think you should go to the kitchens and see the desserts. Lee is harping about something along the lines of cherry syrup instead of chocolate mousse."
"Yeah sure," Ray turned, only to call back again, "Tania,"
The said female stopped and raised her brows for him to continue.
"You feel something's going to happen?"
Tania gave him an understanding smile before patting his arm lightly, the tray held up in the other hand, "Hey you survived all this, only a bit more Ray. I can sense that you're feeling insecure but you've been through worse, right?" Seeing her younger comrade nod, she added, "If something really goes wrong, you can always excuse yourself"
"No, I'm okay. Just worn out I guess"
Watching his friend going away, Ray turned his orbs to the dancing couples performing on another classical melody. For a moment, a memory relied in his mind of a masked party his Russian lover had taken him during their short but blissful time spent together.
Ray blinked, where did that come from??
Turning his gaze away, he shook his head. It took him years to forget the hateful times and only a small relic of a picture had the flood gates opened again. All those memories…
I have to start thinking straight. Enough pessimism for the night, I need---
That was when it happened.
The golden eyed teen stiffened as a brief of red flashed in front him, much distance away, yet it had been there nonetheless. Sense returned from where the nerves had become numb and hoping against hope he had hallucinated or the lights were deceiving his senses, the neko took small hesitant steps through the groups and dancers, uncertainty enveloping him as he drew nearer to the spot that fiery mane had met his sight. His mind conjured up a pair of Caribbean blue and he internally shivered at the undeniable aspect.
But there was nothing.
Circling around, searching through the crowd, Ray felt somewhat relieved. He really was being paranoid. There were, if not many, quite some redheads present and there was no saying that what he saw actually had to do with what he was considering. No, there was no plausible way to prove his notion.
Composing himself, he was about to make his way to the kitchen when another peculiar spectacle entered the very boundaries of his sight. To the small portion of humanity surrounding him then, a silent gasp was the only reaction revealed however, the internal façade shattered to smithereens.
A suffocating feeling enveloped his soul, dissolving the world around him, the walls converging and drawing nearer.
"Kai…"
Though over the long span of time, the precise contours of the face had matured into even more attractive ones, the two toned hair grown in a ponytail and a somber appearance for an expression; the crimson hues were still the same and even with the space in between, Ray had no trouble in recognizing the bluenette enigma.
Kai…It's…its Kai…what is he doing here?
Like in a dream like state, not knowing what possessed him, the neko, on shaky legs, advanced where the Russian was sitting around the table though all other occupants were hidden from view behind the vast pillar.
Ray felt a tingling in his eyes but refused to register the ignoramus fact that crystal tears had gathered, partially obscuring his view as Kai raised his face to respond to whosoever he was having for company and lifting his goblet as if for a toast. Watching the teen nodding, the Chinese could no longer hold the content feeling of ecstasy in his chest as he quickened his pace. There he was…after three long years…
But curse that fickle finger of fate, for the next of the seconds caused all impatience and eagerness within him to dissipate into nothingness.
Golden eyes watched as the ivory hand of his koi reached beneath his clothes, where the chest pocket was, to pull out a purple velvet casing of finger ring. Oblivious to the fact that he was being watched so intently, the bluenette opened the case to expose a delicate silver ring with a white pearl in the middle. A nimble left hand adorned with white silk glove and a golden bracelet appeared to his side, the female person unseen behind the spiral construction. Time seemed to slow as Kai picked up the jewelry in between his finger and thumb and proceeded to put the engagement ring on the hand presented.
Ray raised his own hand to his mouth, restraining his inner conscience from screaming as a round of applause came from that particular table, the party obviously pleased with the arrangements while the Russian simply moved back in his seat, face emotionless and eyes dull.
"Ray??"
He whipped around, raven bangs swaying, to the familiar voice speaking his name. Golden clashed intense cerulean and Ray gasped in shock to see yet another dweller of his long locked memories.
Those said eyes, too, widened from behind the twin red strands, the porcelain plate dropping to the floor in a loud crash as Tala numbly registered the Chinese before him, his mind momentarily stopping.
If his voice had not been vociferous enough to attract attention, then the crashing of the crockery ultimately did. Somewhat quick to recover though surprise still having grubby affects on him, all the breath left Ray's body when he turned back. Only to find the light shaded front bangs moving in his direction, pale lips parting in alarm, a look of familiarity rekindling in those pools of blood as Kai met his frightened gaze.
No…
Before the gathering could actually pull together, before any one could even consider moving a limb, Ray did the first thing that came to his mind. He turned on his heels and fled, his ponytail realigning with the concurrent steps of his hasty retreat.
"What- Ray, wait!"
Finally coming around and snapping from the bolt from the blue, Tala blinked twice and lunged after the fleeting raven haired beauty, guests sensibly parting and giving way to the anew goose chase.
"Ray!"
Watching his best friend pursue his ex-lover, Kai leapt from his chair and stood immediately; mind occupied only with the image of fearful golden hues. But before another stride could be taken, two silk covered hands grabbed his forearm and he turned to meet confused soft hazel eyes of his new young fiancée. Seeing the hurt look as she tried to decipher some logic of the situation, crimson eyes moved to the head of the table where his grandfather sat, looking livid.
"Sit Kai" The low whisper was able to carry it self to the teen, knowing that the ancient oceanic memories had been resuscitate.
Torn between the agonies of indecision, Kai turned his sight to where the two other had melted in the mass, a single thought playing his mind,
Ray…
…………
"Come on both of you, we need to send these deserts NOW!"
"You can't have chocolate with coffee soufflé!"
"And why would that be?"
"Because-"
"Would you two stop it?"
Lee was about to snap back at the elder cook when the doors of kitchen burst open, admitting a distressed raven head teen, before flinging back shut.
"Ray?"
The lion was about to approach his childhood friend who rushed in, high on desperation, dodging the waiters, cooks and food trolleys clustered in between the metal aisles before wrenching the opposite door open and exiting through it which led to back basement and out of the building.
Just as the end of his ponytail vanished around the corner, the main doors once again banged open as a red head dressed in white entered, ignoring the cries of surprise of the staff as he accidentally knocked down a stack of dirty dishes. Cerulean eyes paused at the door at the end and followed suit, half way raising hands to push the wood before stampeding down the spiral staircase.
Oh shit, was that Tala?
Amber eyes narrowed, Lee, throwing his whole argument to the winds, went to entrance. Peeking out through the glass panels, his suspicion was confirmed when he saw the two toned haired person, granted his utmost loathing, standing far across the hall.
Irises dilating to mere dots and a fang protruding, he hissed, "Hiwatari…"
……………
Ray didn't have the slightest idea where he was running to yet he did not stop to reconsider. Footsteps thundered behind him as his legs automatically, carried him through the spiral staircase, the thought of escaping only gracing his mind.
"Ah!"
The sound of two bodies clashing went unheard by the neko's senses as he stumbled back up from where he had collided with a kitchen staff member. Wincing as his nerves registered the pain in his shoulder where he had hit the wall, golden eyes stared at the young man, fright evident.
"Mr. Kon, are you okay?"
Panting from all the running, Ray looked around feverishly, endeavoring to maneuver some sort of hiding place than to answer the inquiry. He bit his tongue as the steps of his pursuer sounded somewhat closer. Giving the man he had so brashly knocked to the ground a pleading look, he jumped a couple of steps down to the platform leading to two opposite corridors, before opening the broom closet to his right and taking cover.
Before the man could even stand, another teenager ran passed him, only to stop and look from left to right as if discerning which path the neko took. Icy cerulean eyes turned to him and he felt frozen under the gaze,
"Ray, where did he go?"
Pretending to be highly panicky about the scenario, he raised a shaky arm and pointed to the corridor contrast to where the Chinese had gone. The red head seemed to judge him but in the end, took his suggested path.
Letting out needful gasp since he had been unknowingly holding his breath, he slowly scrambled to his feet, one hand going over to the bruised chest where he was knocked into.
He almost yelled when the broom closet opened again and the raven head jumped out. Those sunlit hues turned to him for a brief second before Ray sprinted away to the path leading to the back exit of the restaurant where only staff members were allowed.
What was all that about?
…………
His footsteps came to a sudden halt at the edge of the building as Ray stared out in the wet world from the door frame, rain pelting down from the cloud filled sky. He needed to go away. He needed to get far from here. As soon as possible
Kai…Kai was here and…Tala too…
What were they doing here? The image of his lover rolling an engagement ring up those beautiful gloved covered hands flashed before him.
And that was all the motivation he needed.
Not knowing where his hurried footsteps were leading him, Ray ran into the downpour, the harsh rain drops mixing up with the crystal tears escaping profusely through his eyes, making them and the pain inside him undistinguishable. It seemed as if history was repeating itself; the same chronicle occurring again and through his far out state of perplexed frenzy, the neko recalled a similar night three years ago of running away in the rain, trying yet not succeeding in placing as much as expanse possible in between the event which had again brought up the long forgotten juices of repentance, regret and rage.
Did I mean so little to him? Was I just another some one who came in his life for a short period and went away?
If that was the case then how come his heart can not accept that? Why did he still feel the anguish burning in him, smothering his sanity to ashes? Was this the man he had sold his life and essence to? How could he be so blind? What if Kai never even wanted him like he dreamt about? What if it was just about an easy lay?
Lee was right…How…how can I even think of loving a person like this? How can I let something like this happen to me? It's been three years…
His tireless charade broke into unwilling trot before stopping altogether. Ray hung his head, breathing irregular, as heavy drops fell on him before lifting his gaze to acknowledge yet another sardonic irony. He had reached a head way of a bridge with a canal below. His shoulders shook and he sniffed; it was all happening once more. His soul was being torn again.
"Ray!"
The neko became rigid as splashes behind him were heard. Not even turning around, he once more darted away, sensing his pursuer drawing near. But this time however, luck decided to abandon him in the cruel hands of fate.
"Stop," Tala charged at the running prodigy, grabbing him from the waist and pushing down into rain water on the concrete ground, collected in puddles.
"NO!" Ray struggled wildly as two hands grabbed his wrists and turned him from where he had landed on his front. But all resistance washed away once he made contact with those blue orbs. The rain somewhat lessened though the cold breeze picked up speed as both teens, one lying beneath while the other pinning him down, registered each other. Gradually, Tala stood, still concatenating the wrists with his slender fingers, and helped the neko up too.
Despite the loud crash of thunder and lightening, the shower became further lighter.
Ray saw as the red head tore his gaze away from him to slowly look up and down, taking in his recent façade. The raven mane elongated with the front tresses rather thicker, the Chinese had metamorphosed into an even stunning being, the previous immaturity one could have found in the past replaced with astuteness and sensation on the sun kissed face. Yet the lightly swollen eyes had something else to say.
Now that face to face, the redhead Russian seemed to force his mind to speak, parting the pale lips to open and close yet nothing came out. The neko watched his futile tries though did not lend any sort of help. Instead he tugged his caught hands free to wrap his arms around himself, the wind growing much harsher now, leaving him vulnerable in that thin drenched emerald jacket.
"W-what are you doing here?" Tala finally stuttered out his disbelief. The guy was alive and he was standing there in front of him. It was almost too good to be true…
"He's getting engaged"
Stomach flipping, the cerulean eyes widened, not at the blunt statement, which was abrupt on its own, but at the remorseful voice which had spoken it. Standing there, with the rain seizing yet the breeze had taken up its speed; Tala could do less than stare at the face of the younger that turned away to one side, raven bangs swaying as if trying to hide the neko from his gaze. Not able to contain him, he elevated a shivering hand and gently brushed away the stray hair, trying to make contact with the golden hues.
Ray tilted his head towards the intruding limb, eyes narrowing as it approached nearer though it refrained when he slowly looked up and whispered quietly, "Kai is getting engaged isn't he?"
The taller teen drew a sharp breath in and dropped down his arm. However there was no response. The golden eyes further narrowed, waiting for his assessment. But as the silence stretched, he sighed, "Kai…he's, well……Ray, I don't think I should be the one to tell-"
Spraying splashes of water everywhere, hurried footsteps reached them and Ray was not able to keep himself from gasping loudly as crimson orbs stare at the raven head who took a step back in retreat. The bluenette halted to a stop at the start of the bridge, the two tone hairs swinging as the wind played with them, face showing assortments of emotions.
Ray's breath hitched up, the previous discontent vanishing from his thoughts, as Kai, taking long strides, reached within two feet of him. Finally, panic registered through his numb brain and he turned to flee.
"Ray wait" Kai grabbed the younger and pulled him back by the forearms. The neko was here, he could touch him, feel him. But however his heart was somehow keeping him from celebrating at the moment. In spite of everything, this was not the kind of reunion he had deemed upon.
Tala watched the stand by between the two lovers, quietly worried at the circumstances they were indulged in. The past had been reawakened; Ray had yet again witnessed something at the wrong time in the wrong place with his best friend amidst the performance. Cerulean eyes traveled to the pale face, wondering how the enigma had evaded his grandfather this time. Whatever the dodging was, the afterwards outcome was not going to be pretty.
The Chinese lost himself in those burning hues of molten fire, relinquishing the warmth they emitted as the Russian drew closer to him. Hearing Kai's voice, hell just seeing him standing there; holding him with his hands was worth anything on the planet right now. But it was not long for the slight euphoria to evaporate and reality, being the sneaky bastard that it was, dawned upon him.
Gloved hands…diamond ring…
Kai kept a good check on his astonishment though his eyes widened when the other jerked away from this touch, a hand tugging back the loose raven strands from his face and arms once again snaking around the torso as the wind whistled slowly.
"What are you doing here?"
The bluenette could not respond at the venom-filled whisper directed towards him, the golden orbs looking at him accusingly from behind the bangs. Kai's mind replayed the scene his lover had witnessed at the dinner and turned away to sigh. Where to start? What to tell?
"I asked something, love"
The redhead gradually closed his eyes at the taunt, taking a step backwards to distance him from the situation. Though hating himself, he decided upon not to intervene. It could prove to be more capricious than beneficial.
Ray could see Tala edging away but it did not matter to him. Nothing seemed to. Sniffing once, he stared down at his feet. He never counted on this meeting. In fact, this was what he feared the most when he came back to China. This confrontation was nothing and yet everything, like his mind conjured up.
Watching the neko, Kai swallowed and spoke, "You're okay"
"Does it matter?"
"It matters the world to me" Kai turned completely to face the younger one who was still evading his gaze by staring at the stone ground.
"Funny; that's what I always thought. However you've remarkably proved me wrong not once but twice" Ray whispered back, raising his eyes to glower at the other.
Kai, warily, did not reply.
"It's not what you think, Ray"
Golden eyes switched to the third person present, "Is it, now? Enlighten me"
Tala waited for a moment to see whether the bluenette would protest against his arbitrating before continuing. But the neko did not let him,
"He's getting married!"
Both Russians stared at the sudden outburst from the youngest before briefly sharing a look. The red head gave the impassive crimson eyes a helpless look, mutely begging him to try and set things straight though they seemed to be in a world of their own.
"You're being engaged…" Ray whispered more to himself than to the company. He kept mumbling, shaking his head ever so lightly before speaking somewhat loudly again, "……And you go away……and get married after all?"
"Ray-"
"How could you? H-how could that mean nothing to you?" Ray murmured, still babbling incoherently to himself, "I thought…I can't believe…not you…no…it wasn't…Kai?"
The said teen mentally cringed at the distressed look he was given but settled upon acting now, "Ray, please listen to me-"
"First me, than Brooklyn and now this…this girl; your fiancée," he kept shaking his head in mistrust, barely standing on his knees, "Is that it? You just take someone in and then…when you're done…"
"Ray" Kai spoke out; astonished at the allegation coming from none other than the person he cared most about.
"How…How could I even let you do t-that to me?" Ray whispered, eyes wide and uncertain, looking feverishly around as if to find answers there
"Ray, please, stop this," Taking the hold of the arms again, the bluenette shook him. The neko had lost it. He was not thinking straight.
"Don't touch me!" Pulling away rashly, Ray seethed at the older, true waves of anger taking him over in their embrace, "Don't ever touch me!"
Seeing as if this wasn't getting anywhere, Tala took a moved forward, "Ray just trust him-"
"Trust him; trust him?" the raven head turned sharply to the other, "Does he even know the meaning of that word? Do you Kai?"
"Ray, look-" The situation was getting to him more than he would ever show
"I did trust you, Kai! I trusted you when you told me I was the one! I trusted you when you assured me it was Brooklyn not you! I trusted you, Kai! When all those late nights you would whisper to me; when I confessed to you about everything. How was I to know that you would be occupied with someone else? No, I-I can't trust you, Kai! I can never trust you again!"
"Would you at least let me explain?"
"Explain what? Your marriage arrangements"
Kai felt torn in taking his part in the heated argument the neko was so vocally sounding and keeping cool. Taking a deep breath to calm himself, he tried again to bring the now hysterical teen in control, "Ray…just…give me chance and hear me out"
"Tell me this. On what number is she, Kai?"
"What?"
Ray sneered, "How many have been there before her?"
"You're talking insane"
"Am I?" Cackling, he turned to the taciturn redhead, "You can tell me Tala. Are you going to be the best man on the ceremony or you two having an affair?"
"Ray, stop this" Kai hissed
Golden eyes clashed with crimson, widening at the threatening sound before narrowing all the same. If the bluenette was intent on facing him head on like his, he could bring it on! "Truth hurts, right?"
Clenching his teeth softly, the enigma closed his eyes and took a deep breath, waiting for the overwhelming rage to cease down its tide before addressing the younger teen, "Come with me"
"Huh?" Ray automatically took a step backwards at the candid request, his mind taking some time to assess what was said to him.
"I want you to come with me, Ray"
Tala had expected a lot in response from the raven teen but the dry laugh that rang out was not one of them.
"Come with you? Yeah right! Why? Already bored with your new playmate? That surely took less time"
"Ray, stop this now" Kai growled. The Russian was losing control, that was apparent but the neko seemed no where near ending his hasty release of emotions.
"Why should I?" Ray countered, not realizing that his liberation could cause bloodshed, "Sorry, but you have the wrong guy. Three years are enough to put sense in anyone Kai Hiwatari! I made the biggest mistake of my life then but I am not planning to repeat it now!"
"Ray, I'm warning you-"
But he did not pay heed to the words spoken, "You can have anyone under you but it's not going to be me! I will not allow you to toy with me again!"
Tala could see the ceaseless pressure building up yet the Chinese refused to register it, "Ray…"
"People have their own dignity and honor if you haven't noticed till now, you bastard. I'm not your whore Kai! I refuse to be an easy lay this time!"
"Enough!"
Kai's palm connected with the tanned cheek as the slap sounded through the hush firmament, the sudden silence of the wind seemingly amplifying the deadness that followed. Time seemed to take its lazy toll as the raven head whipped at the force, the bangs swinging forward, the eyes wide and mind too frozen to register the initial jolt.
The redhead's pliant lips parted in a silent gasp as the neko stumbled to the side, face downwards, mouth open, features reflecting nothing but apparent shock at the bolt from the blue. Cerulean eyes disbelievingly turned to the bluenette whose, upon closer observation, shoulders shook with fine tremors, hand still latched out where he had smacked his koi.
"Is that how you take me for? Is that it Ray?"
A small pant and then another one, Ray panted slowly, still bent in the direction of the strike. He raised his hand unsteadily towards the bruise before gradually turning to meet blazing fire in those hues he had assumed to have reached the depths of. His fingers merely brushed against the skin as his vision of the seething bluenette blurred due to the tears now starting to collect in the corners, all resentment down the drain.
"Is this how low you could consider me for?"
…Kai…Kai had…Kai had hit him.
"Do you really think I came off untouched all these years? Can you for a second, so inconsiderately, think that I enjoyed life to the full?" Kai whispered back, lowering his arm, expression still dark.
Stifling a sob, he mindlessly took a step backward, only to have his legs give way and dropping to the ground. Yet he still did not break the eye contact with the searing crimson.
Kai watched the tears that threatened to release as the neko stayed on the cold bridge, hand on the side of the face he had so uncaringly slapped. The gleaming golden eyes lowered as his words registered in his mind, gaze down in shame for the fatuous allegations he had placed upon the other.
The rain drops fell, slowly before picking up speed, the shower becoming much heavier than before where it had seemingly seized. But even through the pouring, there was no significant movement. That was until Kai let out a deep breath and turned back to the neko from where he was still keeping his sight on the cold ground. Taking a small step near him, the bluenette sighed again, feeling drained and uncertain, "Ray…listen to me and please come with me-"
But the Russian was never able to complete his request as at the precise moment, a kick lashed out and went straight for his head. Years of training had its advantage and Kai was able to dodge the surprise attack by ducking and stepping back. But before his mind could make out his assailant, another blow came with a loud battle cry. Instincts kicked in and he grabbed the offensive punch in his hand, effectively halting it in mid air. Though the sudden defense opened his sides and he stumbled back, his back hitting the stone railing, as a boot caught him squarely in the chest.
"Dare put a finger on him and I swear I'll cut it off Hiwatari!"
A furious storm raging in those crimson eyes faltered for a moment before returning to its full cataclysmic fury as Kai registered the neko before him, "You?"
"Look what the world tossed back," Lee replied, not bothered by the murderous hiss, as he straightened up from where he had successfully hit the other. Amber eyes turned sharply to the redhead who as well looked a bit flabbergasted but the little surprise was now replaced by a sub-zero icy glare. Snorting, the lion turned to his fallen comrade.
Ray watched as the black haired neko crouched before him. His eyes observed the now quickly swelling bruise before he let out a beastly growl. Still, restraining his boiling temper, Lee helped him up and turned to the two Russians.
"What the hell are you two doing here?"
"The same question could be asked by you" Tala replied coolly, his arms crossing over his chest at the mere sight of the lion. Oh, what wouldn't he give to have a swipe at the condescending face of that guy?
"You two are standing in my homeland so don't try being a smart ass with me, Ivanov"
"Hark who's talking. I'm surprised you've got enough time to pull your head out between your legs to notice."
Lee growled in warning, fangs visible from behind the snarl on his lips
"And forgive my lingering curiosity but shouldn't you be behind bars by now?" Tala continued
As the two took out the heat, golden eyes turned to the red pair before a shiver went down his spine. Kai was glowering at his friend with intensity that was alien to him. He never thought there would be a chance when his lover could practically loathe someone. Kai never let anything get to him. In fact he was always so indifferently immune to almost……everything. So why wasn't he now? And of all people, why Lee?
Just another thing to add that I really didn't know him as well as I think I did.
Obviously sensing it, Kai blinked out of his daze and turned to the raven teenager who looked nothing but lost. His sight traveled to the red mark on the other's cheek and the light within his eyes died away. Did he do that? Founding himself in a speechless condition, Kai moved to advance towards the neko but his legs failed him when his boyfriend took a hasty step back, frightened.
"Stay away from him Hiwatari."
"Ray come with me" Kai spoke slowly, blatantly ignoring the other
"Fuck off" Lee swore, coming in between the two
"Ray…" The bluenette tried futilely once more, taking a small step closer as if approaching a scared animal. But the feverish shaking of head stopped him.
Lee felt the triumph of victory internally at Ray's denial and turned to sneer at the Russian, "Are you that shallow Hiwatari? Don't you get it? He's not your freaking property! You had your chance and you threw it to the winds, so back off now!"
"When did you starting playing the Good Samaritan, Lee?"
"Go away"
The whisper stopped the three from starting another round though did a number on Kai who swallowed at the dead command directed to him from the golden eyes. The waves of defeat hit him and for seconds he just stood there looking through the rain at the neko.
"Ray, please, you have to believe him" Tala approached after seeing the defeated look on his best friend's face.
Taking the younger by his shoulders, Lee pulled the raven head behind his back for shielding, openly displaying his possessiveness and could not help but smirked when the crimson eyes widened at his gesture. He had hit the nail right on the head.
"No" Kai whispered at the protectiveness, eyes turning from one neko to the other, endeavoring to prove his straying thoughts wrong. His lips parted when Ray, as if in retaliation, drew closer to the amber eyed teen.
"What's the matter Hiwatari? Loss of words" Lee mocked, adding salt on the wound
"Are you two together?" Even as the surprised inquiry left his pale lips, Tala knew it was a mistake. And Kai's next stuttering proved it.
"Ray…you can't…" The truth hit him like a bucket of cold water and he rendered to swim to clear water but his mind had just shut off, "Ray…you…you don't know him-"
The said person narrowed his eyes, "I never knew you either Kai"
Kai halted in trying to string words together and closed his lips at the finality of the sentence. It was over. It never began to end in the first place. But it was over for now. Training his eyes down for a second, a sigh left his lips. Ray…his Ray was with that bastard son of a bitch who wrecked everything.
And there was nothing he could have done.
Cerulean eyes watched, stunned, as the bluenette slowly turned on his heels and retreated. Tala stared at his friend but couldn't come up with something fast enough. His shoulders slumped somewhat before he turned to pass a glare to the amber eyed black head. Ignoring the middle finger he received in return, his eyes switched to the other.
You're making a mistake, Ray
The redhead turned and left the scene, following the almost undistinguishable silhouette in the rain, not once looking back.
"Those good for nothing, ass holes-"
But Ray did not listen. Pulling away from where Lee was so domineeringly holding him, he stumbled towards the edge of the bridge. This was not happening. He knew something was going to happen tonight but this he had not intended upon something being this big. Golden eyes swept over where his koi had disappeared into the night.
Kai…
The sudden throbbing caused his hand to automatically reach up to caress the stinging skin yet he could only bring himself to even brush the tips of his fingers for his soul was having difficulty in stomaching the fact that Kai had slapped him
'I would never let anyone hurt you, Ray'
Renewed tears gathered in his eyes as the neko's mind took another walk down the memory lane.
…
Flashback
"When will he return?"
"I'm not sure Master Ray but you should not worry much"
The neko chuckled, "I'm not worried. He's a tough bastard"
"Yes indeed and you should respect that," The aged butler replied, handing the neko on the couch a thin blanket, "While you on the other hand are supposed to be taking rest"
"I am" Ray protested, wrapping himself deeper in the blanket before looking over to the large living room windows. It was, thankfully, not raining but the severe weather still made his insides stir, "Kai really shouldn't be out there at this time"
The butler also followed the younger one's gaze, "He's used to these. They are common in Russia"
"Yeah, but shouldn't a meeting be re-scheduled in such circumstances. It's been like this for three days"
"Where Master Kai goes, there's no need for an umbrella I assure you"
Training his sight to the fire grate, the neko closed his orbs, "Of course. We're after all talking about the owner of Asia's largest Vodka chain and-"
"Master Kai isn't the owner yet, Master Ray" The man was in his early fifties though an influential and authoritative aura hung in his demeanor with grey hair combed back, posture tall and stout. "He's only fifteen. His parents' will claim his partial ownership at sixteen and the business domain will not be completely handed over till he turns eighteen. These meetings he's always rushing off to; are actually held with his parents' best friend; Kai's lawyer. You can say that the young master is in training for now"
"Well I still believe he owns it, Dimitri. I won't be handed over my family's business till I'm at least seventeen"
Ray watched lazily lying on the couch as the elder poked the burning pieces of coal with a fire stoker. He still felt a bit sweaty but the fever had been better. Stupid rain, he had to stay in bed for almost a week.
Ding Dong
"Kai" The raven head rose expectedly but the butler's frown stopped him mid way
"No, he doesn't need to ring the bell. Who in their right mind would come at one in the morning?"
Watching the butler leaving the vast yet cozy room, Ray snuggled back into his temporary bed, wishing that a certain Russian would hurry up so he could cuddle next to him instead.
But the following loud shouts caused all the thoughts to abandon his mind. Rising from the comforter, Ray placed his feet on the floor as clear sounds of struggles and a hell lot of Russian made its way to his ears. Just as he stood up, a gun shot sounded, shaking the very foundation of the chamber.
"Dimitri!"
Ray made his way to the door but before he could even take a few steps, the half ajar oak door burst open, admitting a person whose sight froze the very blood in his veins.
Predatory crimson eyes turned to meet his wide golden ones. But he was not given a chance to even take a breath let alone move as the man advanced in like a battling ram.
"You…"
Though façade still shrouded with shock, Ray endeavored to maneuver some escape route as his soon to be assailant closed in.
A cry left his lips as something solid hit the side of his face, causing him to stumble back and trip. Landing on his shoulder, Ray hissed in pain when warm blood started to trickle down his cheek. Raising frightened orbs to the elder, the neko scrambled to his feet, once more alarmed at what fate had tossed at him
"Lord Voltaire" The said person sneered before drawing closer once again. Rooted to the spot, the neko could do less than stare at those dangerous slits.
"I was curious to what my grandson has been keeping himself occupied with." He snorted in disgust, "Country trash"
Swallowing, Ray tried to reply despite the dry throat, "I thought-you…were in jail…in Russia"
The other smirked at his insecurity, "I doubted whether Kai would bother to introduce me. But then again why shouldn't he?"
The Chinese teen took a step back as the man let out a bark of laughter, mind shouting him to flee though legs refusing to co-operate. He feared this person more than anything he had ever feared in his life.
"So tell me, boy, where is that disobedient charge of mine?" Voltaire asked; looking around, face portraying a hint of insanity.
"You-you shouldn't be here" The words were out before he could stop them
Slap!
Ray once more staggered back, his face whipping around at the force. The head had turned sharply at him, features livid at being told something.
Voltaire watched in perverted amusement as the younger prodigy gasped, his breath coming out in pants as all air had left his body at the unpredicted blow, "Don't you dare talk back to me, bitch. You are after all in my domain now"
"This is Kai's house" Ray whispered back, having no idea why he was swimming in even deep waters, "You are the one who don't belong here"
Face contorted in rage, Hiwatari spitted back "So he found a feisty one, eh? Your kind is indeed hard to locate but I wouldn't let it past my dear grandson"
Ray's back stiffened as the elder started to close in on him. He could feel those eyes on him as Voltaire circled around him, taking in his attractive features with lust evident.
"I can see why Kai felt for you now" Out of the blue, he grabbed the raven hair, partially basking in the pained cry leaving those pliant lips as he wrenched them harshly. Pulling the teen back into his chest, he whispered in the pointed ear, keeping a tight grip on the back of his head, "I haven't encounter such beauties for a long time myself"
Ray struggled hard in the hold, tears stinging his eyes but his thrashing brought even greater pain. A gasp left his lips and all movement halted as a hand groped his thigh. High on despair, he could not help but whimper when fingers dug into his skin through his thin clothes.
"Tell me, how does Kai treat you in bed? Is he harsher than this?" Voltaire grinned when the Chinese let out a scream as he grabbed him in between the legs.
"Let go!!"
Voltaire clenched his teeth in annoyance as sharp nails tore away his flesh when the younger clawed his hands violently, "Stop wriggling you whore"
"NO! Let me go" Ray thrashed about, alarms running off as the man tried to bring him under control. He froze, eyes shutting on their own accord as the grip in his lower mid tightened near to paralysis
"I said stop wriggling"
Biting his lip open, Ray sobbed quietly, doing what the grey haired man had demanded him to do, the painful throbbing almost rendering him unconscious.
"That's better now, isn't it?"
"Voltaire!!"
Both occupants in the room turned towards the bluenette standing in the doorway, jaw clenched and fists balled. Crimson eyes traveled from the hateful face of his grandfather to the raven head whose hair were concatenated in the elder's vice grip, tears staining the sun kissed face with a prominent cut on one side. Kai growled, the rumble low and meaningful,
"Release him, NOW"
Knowing that the beast had been rekindled, Voltaire did so, shoving the younger ruthlessly towards the floor. Ray fell on his side, his shoulder making contact with something hard and a sound of china breaking reaching his ears. His mind was so numb with the sore experience that it did not register the shouting, threats and curses ringing out in the firmament. All he did was close his eyes, wishing for the agonizing twinge in his legs to dissipate.
It was quite some time when a slamming of door was heard before some more talk and then silence. Raising a shaky hand, the neko gripped the sidearm of the couch he had been lying in and tried getting up.
"Ray"
Hearing his name shouted out by the familiar voice, he turned, ignoring the ache that ran through his head. Two arms snaked around him and he let out a shuddering sigh in the chest as he returned the gesture whole heartedly.
"Hey…" Kai spoke gently, stroking the silky mane while clutching his lover closer, "…I'm sorry"
"You sure took your time" Ray whispered; face still hidden, shivers running through him. He was drained. But yet he kept himself from crying.
Crimson eyes narrowed as the neko cringed visibly when he traced his fingers on the now cold but wet blood, "Fucking bastard…"
"He used his metal staff," Ray quietly explained, feeling secure in the embrace. Letting out another sigh, he looked up from where he was nestled against the bluenette on the floor, "D-Dimitri?"
"He's okay…Voltaire shot him in the arm…but he'll live. The doctors must have taken him to the hospital by now"
"Kai…Voltaire…he's out?"
Kai averted his gaze to stare out the window, "I don't know. I really have no idea Ray"
Straightening up, the raven head swallowed slightly, "So now what?"
The Russian offered him a small smile before gently cupping the back of his head, massaging it in a soothing way. Watching the golden eyes close, he somewhat felt at ease, "Don't worry. We'll be fine. I would never let anyone ever hurt you"
Ray blinked softly before returning the smile, allowing his koi to pull him in a gentle yet passionate kiss.
He believed in Kai…And that was what matter the most.
……
End Flashback
'I would never let anyone ever hurt you'
He had hit him the same way Voltaire did. And that fact hurt more than anything right then.
I thought I knew him…
"Ray?"
"I thought I actually knew him"
"What did you say?"
But the neko did not listen. He could not listen. For at that second, he let out a pained wail before submitting into a blank omission.
"RAY!"
Through the drops that were pelting down in the flowing canal below, the humanity remained unaware of the loud splash of a body hitting the water surface, letting gravity pull the unfortunate soul deep with in. No, they just slept away or remained passive to their activities, not a single care in the world.
At least not for the dead anyway…
……
YES! Today's my last examination and it's in less than one and a half hour! Can you believe that? I can. Since my parents told me that we'll be leaving for some time out from home the moment I return home, I've been heads over heels trying to finish it! And man, it took longer than I ever imagined! Okay folks, three scenes have been cut from this chapter
(Hides from the trash, knives and boos)
It's the truth! But don't worry, they will be included in the next chap. Come on, the previous was like 21 pages long and this is 24!! I rock!!! So yeah, I couldn't possibly make it 'that' long. I don't want you guys brooding and dozing off.
So do R&R and advertise it if you find it worth your time because I really think it is. And please, if someone can help me with the summary, do raise your hand and come forward. Else than that, I'm a happy bunny for this chapter!!
Till next time
Neena