A/N: Hey, just a few notes for you. Lucifer was and actual band in Japan formed after Mayu Shinjo started Kaikan Phrase because her work was so popular. One of the songs performed by the band was Datenshi Blue. I've mentioned the song here. Also as I did before in my last story, I've written a song. I claim this song as 100% mine. The characters and basic story line is Shinjo's.
Also I've mentioned several designers. I know very little about designs or fashion shows. Everything except for the names of the designers is complete fiction. Okay I think I've covered everything. Oh wait - Haha means mother or mommy. Moshi-moshi is how the Japanese answer the phone, like we say hello.
Enjoy!
Surprise
Miya stayed in the hospital for five days. She was just too weak to go home and much to his disgust, Towa couldn't take the time off to take care of her. The fashion show was fast approaching and Lucifer needed to spend more time in the studio rehearsing.
Luckily for Aine, Miya being out sick didn't affect her schedule too much. She was mostly just cramming now for final exams. There was just one short month before she was free of school and she couldn't afford any distractions like extra work.
Today was the day Miya came home from the hospital and everyone was going to pick her up even Mr. Takayama, Kai and Sasaki. There had been a little bit of coverage about a member of the Lucifer staff being in the hospital. The band had gone once altogether to see their 'friend' and it made a touching piece in the news rags but after that whenever anyone visited, they went incognito and used any other entrances but the main one.
They entered the hospital in ones and twos in disguise. Although it was early morning, just before the sun came up actually, they didn't want to cause a scene.
Miya sat on the side of the bed dressed and ready to go home. Her smile grew with each person who entered the room, even Sasaki. To her great relief, Marcy was conspicuously absent. "Hey baby." Miya waved at Yukihiko who'd also made the journey to see her home. She sighed happily when he waved back.
"Ready to go home?" Towa asked as he stood by her side and rubbed her back.
"Oh yes! They've been really good to me but I can't wait to get home." Miya looked at the smiling faces of her friends and got tickled. Yuki had his hair pulled back with a baseball cap on. Atsuro wore a toboggan and shades. Santa was dressed like a cowboy – hat and boots too! Sakuya also wore shades and a cabbie's cap. Her own Towa had pulled his hair up in high ponytail, wore a pink shirt and jeans plus shades – he could pass for a girl. "You all look adorable." She giggled.
Aine and Yuuka were busy making sure she hadn't forgotten anything. "They would have dressed as women if you'd asked them to." Aine commented with a laugh.
"Yes and we know they look good as women – well maybe not Santa." Yuuka teased then yelped as Santa chased after her.
Miya laughed then caught herself yawning. "Sorry, I haven't got all my strength back yet.
"That's quite alright Miya. You take all the time you need to recover. I hope you'll be well enough to help out during the fashion show; the guys always look their best when you do their makeup." Mr. Takayama said graciously then went to take her hand. "I'm sorry to say we have no news about what happened other than what you already know. Only your food was tampered with and that – toxic combination you were dosed with couldn't be found anywhere at the caterer's nor in the dressing room." Takayama frowned. "We're increasing security at all events and the caterers themselves will the test the food before any of us eat anything! I won't allow anyone to hurt any of us! It could possibly be a plot to keep us here in Japan." He patted Miya's hand gently before stepping back.
"Or possibly to stop us altogether." Sasaki said grimly. He looked down when Kai touched his arm and shook her head. "Sorry, didn't mean to ruin the mood. These are for you from everybody at the office." He handed Miya a large bouquet of spring flowers. "You rest up and let us handle things." Sasaki smiled genuinely for her. He did like Miya it was just that business usually came first for him and that being so made him damn good at his job.
"Thank you. I appreciate you going to such lengths to find out what happened to me. Actually I'm glad it happened to me instead of you guys. You're so close now." Miya looked at them all again and saw the stars they were instead of just her good friends.
"We – we're so close now." Yuki said leaning down to kiss her cheek. "You've helped get us here too Miya and we all go together – it's all or nothing for all us, right?" His charming smile included them all and it was returned.
"Okay enough chitchat. Miya wants to go home. You guys scat!" Maria ordered and handed little Yuki to his father. The ladies will ride with Miya and Towa and meet you at their place. Yuuka go get the nurse. Towa go check her out. Well go on – move!" Maria shooed them with her hands.
Takayama smiled and bowed. "Yes ma'am. The three of us will head back to Jupiter and see you all at ten. Only two weeks to go!" He reminded them of the fashion show. "Bye ladies and thank you." Waving he held open the door for Kai and Sasaki.
"I'll be around to visit." Kai promised giving Miya a quick hug then leaving with a smile. Sasaki also bowed then followed.
"We'll have the car sent around and follow okay?" Atsuro asked as Yuki handed him the car keys.
"Sounds good." Aine told them. "Now go, the nurse is coming with the wheelchair." She smiled at them then repeated Maria's actions and shooed them away.
The four tall, good-looking men and one toddler left the room. "Nah, they don't stand out at all." Yuuka said with a laugh.
There was a limo waiting for them at the entrance and shortly they were on their way to Towa's place. They had an apartment taking up one whole floor of the building. They had their living area and then a small studio for Towa to practice in.
For a few hours it was like nothing had ever happened and the friends had a good time but soon enough Lucifer had to leave for rehearsals. Aine and Yuuka had already left for school and work so that left Maria and the baby with Miya. A nurse was due to come by shortly to help Miya out then Maria would take her leave and let the woman rest.
It was hard for Miya to keep her eyes open but it was important that she talk to Maria. She had to share her suspicions with somebody and see if they sounded stupid or too believable. Maria beat her to the punch.
"Marcy was alone with the food wasn't she?" Maria spoke quietly. Yukihiko was nodding in his stroller.
"I'm not sure but…she had access to it. The caterers arrived just as I was asked to help with the presents. I let her take care of it. When I returned Aine and Suki were already eating." Miya's eyes had been focused on her slippered feet but now her wide eyes connected with Maria's. "Only my food was tampered!" Her voice rose then she lowered it quickly looking at the baby but he just sighed contentedly. "The table was laid out with food and uncovered. Anything and everything on that table could have been contaminated but only my boxed plate was tampered with. She – someone had to pick it up, open it and each separate container to poison my food." Miya sat back with a sigh. "I know Aine had a lot of trouble with fans when Sakuya first started dating her and I could think it was just some obsessed Towa fan but nobody knows about us yet! Who else could it be if not Marcy?" She asked quietly.
"I wondered the same thing when I heard what happened. I know Sasaki and probably the rest of them think this was aimed at the band but then why wasn't more of the food poisoned? If they wanted to stop Lucifer, it would have been better if they had gotten sick, not just a member of their staff. I think…it's that woman but there's no proof!" Maria hissed and got up to pace. "And the thing of it is, no one suspects her or would believe us if we accused her." She was a small woman like Aine but her strength couldn't be measured by her size. Maria pictured Marcy and wanted nothing more than to take her down.
"It's us, the women she wants to hurt. Ever since we started helping Aine, I've felt nothing but animosity from her. Maria – even though the MD contest is over and Aine is free to work by Sakuya and Lucifer's side again – what will happen then? Will she direct all her attention at Aine?" Miya was very worried.
"You forget the rest of us. I enjoy this work and plan on looking for more ways to help Yuki and I think Yuuka feels the same. You still have your job as the band's makeup artist – the Lucifer Ladies aren't going to end once we go to London." Maria stopped and looked down at her son then back at Miya. "I don't know what we can do but we have to protect ourselves and find a way to prove that Marcy can't be trusted." The two women looked at each other knowing that was easier said than done. Marcy had made herself invaluable to Lucifer's cause and though her manner was somewhat off-putting – she had the guys confidence. They would do what they could but honestly that had no idea what.
Aine crammed for two weeks straight. She made time to help write lyrics to Santa's new song in Japanese and English, just in case. There was even some phrases she was playing around with that could maybe be a song they could use for the TV show but first came school. The fashion show was this weekend and the following Monday, exams started.
Despite the band asking for time off, they spent a great deal of time in the studio. So it was a rare day or afternoon that she and Sakuya got spend any quality time together. Mostly they came together for dinner and bed. Sometimes they made love but generally they just held each other, too tired for anything else. Things would calm down a little after the fashion show and everybody was looking forward to that. Miya was back at work and there had been no more incidents so people weren't as on edge as they had been following the food poisoning.
Aine had just arrived home. Takato and Yuko had refused to study with her anymore. They'd claimed that they'd studied so much that the words were burned not only in their brains but on their eyes as well – they dreamt of themselves studying! So she was at home at three in the afternoon on Friday with nothing to do. She'd just gotten some juice when the phone rang.
"Moshi-moshi." She answered the phone. "Oh hey, Yuuka. Yeah, I'm home for a change!" Aine laughed. "At Jupiter? Yeah I could, probably should then maybe we could go get pampered a little – hair and nails for tomorrow? I'll be there in thirty! Thanks for calling!" Aine drained her juice then ran upstairs to change. She and Yuuka were going to use the gym at Jupiter Records then hit their favorite spa and get all pretty for the show tomorrow.
Marcy got an unpleasant surprise when she entered the gym to see those women using the Stairmasters. Every so often they were talking and laughing as they climbed a virtual hill. Stifling her anger she went over to one of the many weight machines. They didn't see her so she put in her ear buds but never turned on her iPod and stared at them as the forty pound weights lifted and lowered behind her.
"So you come here pretty often?" Aine asked. They'd been there about an hour.
"Only lately, maybe three times a week after work. I had today off so after cleaning and doing some errands I thought I'd come over here and get in a quick work out. Maybe Atsuro will want to go out or something later to relax before tomorrow." Yuuka said and shrugged her shoulders. It felt like she was being watched.
"Maybe I should join you once school is finally over. Sakuya always has so much energy but lately he's a little worn – happy but worn. I'm glad he'll have a few days rest next week. As for relaxing, well we'll be doing that in bed. Of course I don't mean sleeping – it's more of a workout than anything we've done here! Considering how excited he'll be – I'll be working out all night!" Aine grinned as she made Yuuka laugh out loud because her friend was totally getting what she was hinting at. "I'll need to stop and pick up a few energy drinks before going home." Aine laughed as well when Yuuka stumbled off the Stairmaster holding her stomach but suddenly her friend stopped laughing.
Aine expected to be teased but when Yuuka stood up blinking quietly she turned to see what she was looking at. Marcy looked at them with her face wiped of all emotion but her eyes bored into them. "Something wrong Marcy?" Nothing. Marcy got up from the bench where she sat and took a few steps towards Aine her posture stiff.
Yuuka took a breath suddenly feeling chilled and moved closer to Aine's side as if to protect her from Marcy. Just the three of them were there and besides some background music playing, all was silent.
"Here it is!"
"Well damn, have we always had a gym?"
"Where the hell have you been? Of course!"
"Playing music of course! Who needs to work out when we spend hours in the studio and on stage? Look at these arms – perfection!"
"You guys are crazy! Let's just see if they're still here!" Sakuya follow by the rest of the band entered the gym and froze at the tension. Aine and Yuuka were next to each other facing Marcy who was stalking across the floor towards them. "What's going on?" He asked moving instantly across the room with his long stride.
"Sakuya! Atsuro!" Yuuka breathed a sigh of relief and headed towards her man. Sakuya had already scooped Aine up into his arms, she was safe. What had Marcy been going to do? It was like the feeling when some stranger is following me on a dark street, a looming threat but worse because she was facing us! Did she really intend to hurt us? Why?
"You okay? You're shivering." Atsuro asked touching her pale face then rubbing her arms trying to warm her.
"Aine?" Sakuya asked as her arms came up around his neck and she lay her face against his chest.
Yuki moved beyond Atsuro and Yuuka who had also turned into his chest and lowered her head breathing hard. Obviously nothing had happened but he knew these women and something Marcy had said or did had scared them. "Did we interrupt something Marcy? Girl talk?" He asked in a normal voice not trying to cause any more friction than necessary.
Marcy stared at Sakuya holding Aine so gently in his arms and burned. Her hands clenched at her sides and she looked down at the floor before taking several deep breaths then smiled up at Yuki while removing her ear buds. "No, no. I was just going to join them. They looked to be having so much fun so I thought I'd go see what was so funny that's all. I just must have surprised them; they didn't know I was here." Marcy turned and picked up her towel still trying to tamp down her urge to kill Aine.
Yuuka's head snapped around at that lie. It was on the tip of her tongue to call her on it but Aine had also raised her head and silently said no. The two of them looked at each other before Yuuka once again dropped her eyes and nodded.
This exchanged wasn't missed by any of the men and they were damned curious as to what the hell was going on. Marcy was drinking from her water bottle while the other two women remained silently in the arms of their men.
"Why don't we get out of here? We found the girls, let's just go and have some fun!" Santa said with a smile. It was fake but they couldn't learn anything while they stayed there staring at each other.
"Yes, we're heading over to my house for a barbeque. Maria and Miya are setting things up now. All we need are you two." Yuki's expression lightened as looked from Aine to Yuuka, his sisters.
"Oh but we were going to the spa after this and we need to shower. Oh my, I've been sweating! Put me down Sakuya!" Aine squirmed in his arms.
Sakuya laughed at her attempts. "So? I like your sweat." To prove it, he lifted her higher so he could lick her neck.
Atsuro shook his head in amusement. "No problem – you can shower and change at Yuki's. I'm sure you brought clothes to change into and you guys can join us tomorrow right before the show. We get to hang out with the models and they're having a spa thing too. We were invited plus our closest friends – you guys! We'll all look MARVELOUS!" He tried to do an Italian accent making them laugh.
"So it's settled! We just need to get your stuff and head out!" Yuki said with a grin. He knew Marcy was still there but this had nothing to do with her.
"I'll just change and meet you guys there." Marcy said with a shaft of joy spearing through her at spending the evening with Sakuya and keeping Aine's disgusting body away from him! She headed for the showers.
"Umm, you're not invited Marcy. It's just family tonight. Since we've been working so hard, we just want to relax – no business talk. I'm sorry." Yuki said and he didn't just make that up on the spot because of whatever was happening when they came in. Lucifer and their ladies wanted and needed to spend some carefree time together and Marcy was anything but carefree.
The bottle in her hand shook wildly for a moment before it stilled. "Of course, sorry I just assumed everyone was going." Marcy didn't turn just spoke as she faced the mirrored wall. Her reflection was cold.
"No, actually Mr. Takayama just took the whole office out for dinner. They just left about ten minutes ago before we came looking for the girls." Towa told her. "I'm sure if you ask at the front desk, the guard can tell you where they went." He was trying to be helpful but he also just wanted to get away from the woman she was ruining their good mood.
"Yeah, it's how we knew you were here." Atsuro chimed in stroking Yuuka's back. Her trembling had finally ceased.
"…Maybe I'll do that." Marcy glanced back at them smiling. "You have a good time tonight. Tomorrow you're going wow the world!" Her control was back, she just had to stay calm.
Yuki blinked at the complete reversal but smiled and nodded. "Thanks, we plan on it. Let's head out guys." He turned to lead the way.
"Sakuya – our stuff is in the locker room. Let me - !" Aine found herself flipped over his shoulder, one large hand over her spandex-covered ass as he headed for the locker room. "Whoa! It's the women's…." Aine gave up trying to talk since all the blood was rushing to her head. She braced her hands on the small of his back and blinked blurrily at their laughing friends.
"Atsuro – catch!" Sakuya tossed him Yuuka's bag, put Aine's on his other shoulder and headed out. "Later Marcy." It wasn't just a normal later but a later as in I'll find out what you were up to later. He had not forgotten what they'd walked in on.
"Bye-bye." She waved nonchalantly at them smiling the whole time until the door slammed behind them. Marcy hurried into the locker room and screamed. Towels, bottles and soap were tossed around. She kicked the wall a couple of times but none of it satisfied her. "I'll have to get one of them! Only taking out one of them will satisfy me!" Her voice bounced back at her and Marcy calmed somewhat. "And Yuki – family! Ha! I wonder what he would do if he lost his precious family? You'll learn not to mess with me. You all will." Marcy promised the locker room then looked about it. "Damn, somebody needs to some cleaning. I think I will go find Takayama and let him treat me to an expensive meal and some wine. It's the least he can do, the bastard after not telling me about the dinner!" She stripped out of her tiny shorts and halter top moving towards the shower. Instead of clearing her head of images of Sakuya and Aine together, the water only seemed to fuel her hatred.
They took three cars. Aine and Sakuya in the Ferrari. Yuki, Towa and Santa in Yuki's sedan. Yuuka and Atsuro in his jeep. Maria called and the women set up a three way phone call. Miya was with her and although the two of them had already gone shopping, she wanted them to stop on the way and pick up a few things. Yuuka and Aine were delighted at the timely interruption – they wouldn't have to talk about Marcy. They stayed on the phone the entire time until they reached Yuki's home in one of the beautiful suburbs.
The girls escaped into the house to shower and change leaving the guys to carry in the groceries. By the time they returned, a new addition had been added – Tokugawa and he'd brought his cameras. Sakuya figured this was a good time to get some photos of Aine and all of them. It seemed like Yuki had lied about this being just for family but no, Tokugawa fit right in with them. He was like Sakuya in so many ways that he couldn't be a stranger if he tried.
Shortly the men and women separated. Into the backyard where the grill was where the men congregated while the women settled into the kitchen. Yukihiko ran back and forth between the house and the yard where someone was always willing to hold him or play with him.
"What happened?" Maria asked as she made lemonade and tea. The guys had agreed not to drink since tomorrow was an important day. "Yuki mentioned they walked in on something between you and Marcy." Her eyes flicked between the two women.
Aine was at the sink washing fruit and vegetables. She looked back at Yuuka who was making a dip for the chips and vegetables. A minute passed then Yuuka shrugged and went back to mixing. Aine sighed. "I don't really know." Aine said then laughed at the confusion on Miya and Maria's faces. "We were almost done – on the Stairmasters when I said something to make Yuuka laugh. She was laughing so hard she couldn't stay on the machine that's when she noticed Marcy. I looked over and there she sat at a weight machine just staring at me." Aine shut off the water and shivered suddenly cold. "We spoke but she wouldn't answer. Then she got up and walked towards me – us." Aine blinked rapidly then shrugged.
"You. She was headed for you with…intent. What she intended, I don't know but I stayed by Aine's side. I felt like I needed to protect her." Yuuka stared at Aine. She was petite and fragile looking but she often took on large opposition to defend herself and her relationship with Sakuya but in that instance Yuuka believed that if Aine had been alone, she would have been in great danger.
It was quiet for several minutes as Miya and Maria shared a look and Aine and Yuuka seemed lost in the memory. "What were you talking about exactly?" Maria asked casually as she added sugar to the lemonade.
Aine's cheeks got red. "Sakuya…and how he likes to relax before a show." Her eyes glanced up and down quickly trying to gauge their reactions.
Maria's mouth did twitch some. She'd seen Aine after a 'relaxing' night with Sakuya. Apparently, Sakuya put as much enthusiasm into loving Aine as he did his music! But then she sobered because that explained, at least to her, what had set Marcy off. "Aine…"
"Haha! Ai! Yuu! Mia!" Little Yuki greeted the women from above Sakuya's head.
All smiles,"Yukihiko!" The boy laughed and patted Sakuya's head before hiding his face in the black hair.
"You need me to take him?" Maria asked beginning to wipe her hands.
"Nope, going to go potty." Sakuya said with a grin as he held gently to the tiny legs.
"Then isn't that kind of dangerous?" Miya asked with a grin. If Yukihiko couldn't wait he would pee all over Sakuya's neck and shoulders.
The women all laughed as Sakuya quickly but gently lifted the boy high and held out in front of him. "Oh yeah, umm be right back!" Sakuya fast walked the laughing boy down the hall.
"Now that was a picture!" Tokugawa said joining in their laughter but his finger never stopped pressing the buttons on his camera. This was Lucifer the Family and it was just as photogenic as the band. "How are you ladies doing and might I say how good you all look? The food too!" He helped himself to some. "I'm also glad the Brass Ass Bitch isn't here. I heard she tried to horn in. Glad Yuki told her where to go, she would have ruined this little get-together." He looked around at the women with a genuine smile. "Thanks for inviting me."
"You're quite welcome." Maria said and handed him some tea. "You became one of us long ago." She looked back towards the bathroom and knew from the sounds of laughter that she had a few minutes to question him. "Kyo, don't like Marcy much, may I ask why?" She tilted her head curiously.
Miya sat up then and noticed the curious glances of Aine and Yuuka. Apparently they too wanted more insight on the American and from one whose future wasn't so entwined with the businesswoman's.
Kyo arched a brow and noticed that there was something more to the question than mere curiosity. "She's a bitch. No honestly! First she turned me down flat. Look at me – come on!" He joked and got the desired laughs then sobered. "…I don't like the way she micromanages things. Yes, she's allowed be there during the photo shoots and interviews and such but she tries to tell the camera men, reporters, interviewers how to do their jobs. I've seen her attach herself to Sakuya and Yuki's sides speaking for them as if they weren't capable of speech and…" This time it was Kyo who looked over his shoulder for Sakuya, apparently he didn't want the singer to hear this. "Also she tried to get me fired from the fashion show." His face darkened as informed them of what Marcy had done.
The ladies gasped in disbelief. "But why?" Aine asked standing. "You're in the top five of your field! People call you – not the other way around!" Tokugawa was synonymous with great photography.
Kyo smiled. Trust Aine to defend me. If only she didn't love rocker-boy. He went to Aine and put an arm around her shoulders. "I said she tried. Somehow she got as far as Versace's assistant and made up some shit about my work ethic and the quality of my work." Kyo's voice got hard. "But what she didn't know is that not only is Versace a friend but so is Armani and they were just two of the designers who'd asked for me personally. They wanted her removed from the show but I know it would have put a bad stain on what Lucifer is trying to do so I asked them to keep it quiet. Hey!" Kyo said in surprise as Aine hugged him and even Miya stood on tiptoe to kiss his cheek.
"What are you doing to these women?" Sakuya asked gruffly. "Get him Yuki!" He thrust the baby at the photographer.
Kyo laughed and caught the boy. He wasn't much into kids but he couldn't help but like this particular Munchkin. He submitted to the clumsily tickling fingers of the baby. "Oh Yukihiko – have mercy!" Kyo put the boy down and ran from him.
"Hey the grill's ready!" Santa sauntered into the kitchen and saw Aine held above Sakuya's head and was being playfully shaken like a doll while Kyo was chasing little Yuki with his camera. Maria was laughing; Yuuka and Miya were poking at Sakuya making it hard for him to hold on to Aine. "What's up?" He went to Maria's side and she leaned into him.
"Nothing, everything. So we're eating outside right?" She looked at the table and all the food they had to move. "Alright, that's enough playing! The food will be ready soon." As she spoke the other guys came in and Maria had them carrying the food outside.
There was a brief moment when Kyo found himself alone with the ladies again. "Listen – she did that after a little tiff we had during one of Sakuya's photo shoots. You were there Miya." He reminded her.
"Oh yes, I remember. I walked out with Sakuya so she would leave him be." Miya definitely recalled that day when Sakuya had needed her help in getting away from the woman.
"Well instead of letting it go and just ignoring each other – she retaliated and tried to get me fired. I don't know what's up with that woman but stay out of her way. If she even thinks you've done something against her, I believe she'll try to get even." Kyo stiffened and looked at Miya. "No way! The food poisoning? But that's…" He broke off as Sakuya called to him not liking it that he was once again alone with the girls. "Look I don't know what's going on with Marcy but watch your backs! We're all after the same goal to see those guys on top of the music world but we don't have to have Marcy to do it. She'd just one person and we're…" Kyo broke off but Maria finished for him.
"Family. Go before Sakuya comes to get you and Kyo – thanks." Maria held his hand for a moment before handing him some napkins to take outside. "Let's hurry ladies." After Kyo left and just before they carried out the last of the food and drinks she spoke again. "We may not get the chance tonight but we do need to talk about Marcy – I don't trust her and after hearing what she did earlier and to Kyo – well I think we should all be very careful in the future. If anybody's messed in her business it's us." Maria looked them each in the eye and saw doubt in Yuuka and Aine's eyes. They would be the ones needing to be convinced. Maria also made herself a promise – if just one more bad thing happened to any of them, she would speak up. Their dream wasn't worth a damn if people got hurt in the process.
They let go of Marcy and her weird influence over them and enjoyed themselves. Steaks and seafood, salad and chips, fruits and sweets were eaten hungrily and no one worried about calories and such for they played as much as they ate. Football and soccer, hide and go seek for Yukihiko. Kyo's cameras were passed around with everybody getting a chance before and behind the lens.
After the baby was put to bed, they played some video games with Santa, Sakuya, Atsuro and Kyo battling it out between them with the others cheering or talking junk about their skills. They ended back outside relaxing under the stars before calling it a night. All the couples and Kyo were leaving but Santa was going to crash in one of the spare rooms.
"Sakuya – don't keep Aine up too late hmm? She needs her rest even if you don't!" Maria chastised him with a grin.
"That's no fair! Can I help it if I can't get enough of her?" Sakuya swung Aine up into his arms and proceeded to kiss her.
"Over-sexed teen." Kyo said snapping pictures with a grin.
Sakuya looked up and smirked. "Jealous old man? I see you didn't show up with a woman tonight, I expected you to." He let Aine slide down his body but continued to hold her close.
"Hardly." Kyo laughed. "This was a family thing so I left my woman at home. She'll be waiting for me in bed – naked and ready." Tokugawa the playboy was present and accounted for.
"Okay before this conversation gets out of hand, I'm taking my lady home. Thanks Maria, Yuki – this was great." Towa said kissing Maria and shaking Yuki's hand.
"No problem, we should do it again." Yuki said with a large smile. "It's been too long since we played like this." They had moved towards the gate when he saw a car pull off with its lights off. Was someone watching the house? Damn, better hire some security for a while just to be safe.
"You know we never did talk about what happened at the Jupiter gym." Atsuro said suddenly. He'd had so much fun that it had slipped his mind but now as they were leaving, for some reason Marcy popped into his head.
"And we won't now either!" Yuuka said taking his hand. "Come Atsuro, let's go. No business talk. No Marcy. Say thank you and let's go home. Don't you want to show up Sakuya?" She asked with a blush about her cheeks.
Atsuro blinked, Yuuka was evading the topic and it looked as if no one else wanted to talk either so he grinned. "Thanks! Oh and how am I going to prove that I beat Sakuya?" He wrapped an arm around her waist sliding his hand low on her belly.
"You can't. Oh you can try but sadly you can never catch up to a master of my caliber! Isn't that right Aine?" Sakuya pressed a hand over Aine's ass holding her intimately close to his body.
"Sakuya!" Aine pushed back embarrassed. He was so outrageous sometimes but she really should be use to it by now.
"No sex in the backyard – unless it's me and my wife!" Yuki laughed. "Go on you perverts! I'll see you guys in the morning." He pushed Atsuro then Sakuya out of the gate.
"Sorry!" Aine and Yuuka called out then, "Thanks!" They laughed at having spoken at the same time and waved at the three watching them leave.
"Well I'm off to bed. Thanks for letting me crash guys. I gotta get me a girl too so I can have someone to go home to. Maybe I should ask Tokugawa for one of his." Santa yawned then rubbed his belly as he headed off to bed.
"Night Santa!" Maria called and watched as Yuki closed and secured the gate. Next he set the alarm and they entered the house making sure those alarms were set too.
The two walked arm and arm to Yukihiko's room and caught him sucking his thumb in his sleep, smiling they went to their room. "We will have to talk about Marcy sometime. I'm sure Aine and Yuuka told you what happened." Yuki said as he helped his wife undress.
"I know, I planned to but after the fashion show okay? I think…everything's going to be fine for now. I just want you to concentrate on making the world of fashion think of Lucifer and your music whenever they want to look good." Maria pulled off his shirt and spread her hands over his warm skin.
"Piece of cake – they'll be eating out of our hands!" Yuki grinned at her and tossed his hair back as he picked up his naked wife and entered the bath. "So for now, I think I'll love this sexy body and you girls can compare notes tomorrow!" He chuckled.
"Well then you better give it your all so I can brag." Maria giggled and held on tight to his neck.
"You won't have to. The fact that you won't be able to walk will tell all!" Yuki kicked the door shut with his foot and Maria's delighted laughter could just be heard.
Cars were sent for them early the next morning and they arrived at one of the city's best spas. It was reserved for the models but the musical talent and others involved in the show were there for some first-classed pampering as well. While Lucifer was the only band playing, a couple of famous singers had been added to the roster hoping to draw an even bigger crowd and keep the audience entertained during the intermissions.
Hairdos, manicures, pedicures and massages were given. Breakfast was served (to those who were allowed to eat). Wardrobes were gone over and adjustments were made before the groups were transferred hotel where the show was going to be held.
Lucifer had its own suite and it was there the girls changed into the new designer clothes Trio had made for them. Not only were their designs to be shown on the stage but on everyone connected with Lucifer too. This show was as important to Trio as it was to Lucifer. While the Lucifer Ladies relaxed in the suite, the band was downstairs rehearsing. They were used to the stage but the catwalk was something new. After seeing Lucifer's pictures courtesy of Tokugawa, Armani had wanted them to model his clothes for him.
Throughout the morning, Marcy was there but she stayed away from the group of ladies but kept close enough to keep watch on them. Last night she'd rode by Yuki's house and had seen Kyo Tokugawa there and had almost wrecked the car. Her anger was beyond intense as she realized that they treated the self-absorbed, wanna-be-playboy like family and not her! She who was working her ass off for them! But then she didn't want to one of them, all she wanted was Sakuya.
I almost made a mistake yesterday in the gym with Aine. All I could think about was twisting her head off of her neck like a chicken's! I think I'll save her for last. Maria and Yuuka…one of them is next. Marcy sighed as she sat before the catwalk and watched Sakuya strut down the center. He could be a model too! Damn he's talented. Don't you worry Sakuya; I'll free you from all these false friends. Just a little while longer and we can be alone together. Marcy watched him disappear off stage and planned their future.
Camera flashes. Strobe lights. Excited chatter. Smattering of applause. Pulse moving music. Erotic and arresting designs. Famous designers. And beyond beautiful models. Add in a couple of famous singers and one of the best bands in Japan and you've got the fashion show of all fashion shows.
Decadent foods and the best imported wines as well as high priced sake flowed about the room. Important people in the design world, corporate and manufacturing as well as TV and the music business were there. The ultra rich was there and the wannabes who'd tagged along not to mention family and friends of those involved were there. On this Saturday afternoon, this was THE place to be.
The ladies rarely strayed from their seats except for food, bathroom and the got-to-have-autograph. About a quarter into the show, Miya had left them to go help out with Lucifer's makeup. For the most part she was excited to be there to see all the different makeup styles, the beautiful fashions and people but she ate little, her sickness and the time in the hospital hadn't been that long ago. An hour later, she returned her excitement high.
"I met Armani! He shook my hand!" Miya all but screamed as she sat down and the ladies crowded around her. "Oh My God! He wanted to get a look at the guys before their run. I was so NERVOUS!" Miya leaned back in her cushioned chair and fanned herself.
Her excitement spread to the others and it was like they themselves had been back there with Miya to meet Armani. Suddenly the lights went out and white lights swooped about the room. Datenshi Blue began to play. The announcer spoke:
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN WE HAVE SOME NEW MODELS TODAY! WHILE THEY ARE AT HOME ON THE STAGE, THIS WILL BE THEIR FIRST TIME ON THE CATWALK! PLEASE WELCOME THE FALLEN ANGELS – LUCIFER!
The spotlight hit Santa and with his trademark smile, he sauntered down the catwalk in a suit designed just for him by Armani. It was casual with straight lines and chocolate brown. When he reached the end of the stage, he spun around, bowed then moved off to the left.
Next was Atsuro. His suit matched his red hair and while his eyes were bright with excitement, he looked a little shy which had all the women sighing over him. At the end of the stage, he went right.
Towa walked out decked in all white. Now here was the born model. His hair was loose about his shoulders and partially concealing his face. The suit pants were loose and flowed with him and the white coat was open and fell down around his thighs with a flare. In his element, Towa became a supermodel that day. He ended up next to Santa.
Next was Yuki and in contrast to Towa, in all black. His long hair was tied in a rope and hanging over his shoulder. It was also a more conventional tux but the way Yuki wore it – well he looked damned fine as the screams attested. He soon took his spot next to Atsuro with a wink for his wife.
A hush fell over the room and the sound of Sakuya's singing filled their ears as they waited for the man to make an appearance. Two lights swirled around before stopping center stage. Sakuya walked into the light. Black shades covered his eyes. A black duster draped over his shoulders danced about his ankles as he seemingly glided down the catwalk. The ladies screamed and the men admired the young man's boldness. Reaching the end and dead center, Sakuya stopped and dramatically removed the coat showing a black suit underneath with bold blue pinstripes. Flinging the coat over his arm, Sakuya bowed his head and removed his shades. He waited a moment with his eyes closed until he heard himself sing the word blue then lifted his head and opened his eyes to reveal the blue that was his eyes. A few women swooned.
Aine was on her feet clapping, cheering and whistling. They all want you but thank God you only want me! You look gorgeous Sakuya! I love you!
Smiling Sakuya looked out at the packed room. He did the turn as he was taught and used the moment to pull out a blood red rose. When he faced front again, his eyes found Aine instantly and moving out of place by just two steps, tossed her the rose. He'd heard her cheering and his professional smiled slipped ever so slightly to a personal one as he saw her surprise and joy at catching the rose. Camera flashes threatened to blind him as they caught that intimate smile. He spun around again and put the coat back on before joining the lineup again. Sakuya looked left then right – the five bowed to the clapping masses before Sakuya, Yuki, Towa, Atsuro and Santa exited single file.
Tokugawa roared with laughter. He'd known Sakuya would do something he wasn't supposed to do and that he would do it for Aine. He'd positioned himself close to the four women and had snapped a few candids of them having fun at their first fashion show. There were two cameras about his neck. One for personal use and one for professional. That moment with the rose, somehow he'd used them both – instinct he supposed but he'd caught the delight in Aine and the love from Sakuya. If he wasn't already rich, those few shots would make him that way. Although Sakuya didn't want Aine to be a model, when she smiled for her man – she had all the makings of a top model. Who knows maybe Sakuya would bend this time – it was a great picture! Kyo snapped a few more of the band's exit then saw Marcy off to one side. Not knowing why he did so, Kyo aimed his personal camera her way and took a few of her as well.
Aine sat with a sigh and a huge smile, smelling her rose. There were people trying to get a look at her and all four of them were laughing, high on the guys' success. Miya hugged Aine then rushed off back to work.
Marcy had been watching off to one side of the room near to the dressing rooms. If it had been up to her, she'd have been back there with Sakuya, watching him dress and undress but she'd been banned from the backstage by Versace and Armani. Angered she stayed as close as she could to Sakuya then found a spot near the stage to watch him style and profile on the catwalk. After seeing him gift Aine with that damn rose, she'd escaped to a stairwell and pulled out a picture of the four women she carried to remind her of the people who stood in her way and her ultimate goal – Sakuya. Marcy stabbed Aine's face with a pen until it was nothing but a ragged hole.
There were a few more designs shown before the stage was set up for Lucifer. For the performance they would showcasing Trio's designs. Mr. Takayama, Sasaki and Kai joined the Lucifer Ladies. They'd been working the room, making contacts and promoting Lucifer.
"I'm still worried. Maybe they should save the new song for the TV show. It's…well its base and there are a lot of high class people here." Sasaki worried.
"We previewed the song with all the designers and the next segment of designs are all sexy – some scandalous. They thought the song was perfect and besides, these rich people you're so worried about like to be shocked." Kai crossed her long legs and adjusted the tiny skirt she wore. "Think about it – these rich people will associate the designs they'll buy (worth my whole apartment building) with Lucifer! This is great Sasaki! Our sells will be through the roof!" She flung back her hair delighted with the prospect.
"Indeed and don't forget, this is being televised. We could use this show for the video! That's even more advertising for all concerned." Takayama looked up at Sasaki. He appeared nervous but excited. "It's really happening Sasaki, this is no dream – Lucifer is about to hit the big time!" He looked at the watching women and their exuberant faces. Takayama laughed. I love this feeling! Come on guys – take us even higher!
A drum solo hushed the crowd and brought their eyes back to the stage. Santa was highlighted as he sent the blood pulsing through everyone's veins to his beat. Towa now with his hair in a high ponytail started strumming his bass. Atsuro and Yuki appeared at the same time back to back – guitars at first making the same sound before changing cords adding some soul.
The crowd was moving, unable to sit still with such music being played. Sakuya walked out onto the stage smiling at his band mates, his friends. Atsuro and Yuki broke apart giving him center stage. Sakuya tapped his foot, swiveled his hips and let the music take him over then began to sing.
I wanna strip off your clothes
Spread you naked on the bed
Touch your breasts and your sexy V
I've been caught, hooked by your bait
It's totally your fault that I can't wait
Time to do wicked things to my mate
Early in the morning - just after lunch
An appetizer for dinner that's when I'll have you
I try to hide the effect you have on me
But the evidence is clear for all to see
I've been caught, hooked by your bait
It's totally your fault that I can't wait
You make me wicked
You put the X in sex
Your scent is enough to vex
Time to do wicked the wicked things you make me feel
Early in the morning - just after lunch
An appetizer for dinner and a savory dessert
That's when I'll take you
Screaming in my ears
Scratches on my back
Too late, no time for fears
Now's the time to get WICKED!
The atmosphere changed as the music and the sexual intent pouring of Sakuya and the guys reached the audience. Women displayed themselves in a sexier manner. Men stood taller and preened as well. The opposite sex looked at each other and liked what they saw. They gravitated towards each other and imagined themselves in Sakuya's song. Oh yeah, the song was a hit.
All the designers stood in the wings clapping. Lucifer was better than they could have asked for. They were five hot, sweaty, sexy men who ruled with music.
"Doumo Arigatou! Thank you! Thank you very much!" Sakuya bowed then stepped out of the way so the band got its fair share of the applause. "The show will continue in thirty minutes." His smile was as wicked as the song. "So you've got time should you choose to get – WICKED!" He laughed with the audience and winked at them before running off stage followed by everyone else.
Takayama felt like he was floating. Success could do that to a man. He looked about the place at flushed faces and some slightly embarrassed smiles. No one appeared to be offended. He sat back and decided to let the people come to him. Demands for the single should be through the roof!
Aine fanned herself and looked at Maria, her cheeks were red and so were Yuuka's! All three of them had been effected more so than anyone else because the men behind that song had been wicked with them! She wondered how Miya was doing backstage. Aine laughed out loud, just plain happy.
The fashion show was the talk on all the news and entertainment shows. Internet and print media all had footage and used Lucifer to sell record numbers of papers and magazines.
Jupiter Records threw a party that night that lasted until the early hours of Sunday. Everyone was sent home and told not to arrive until noon on Monday – they could afford to keep the public waiting, it would only increase the demand.
Aine tried to study but Sakuya wanted to help so the books lay on the bed while they made love on the floor. Towa took Miya away to an out of the way hotel for some rest. Santa got lucky and disappeared. Atsuro and Yuuka, being the most athletic of the friends went to the beach to swim and play. Yuki took his family home to spend a little time with his parents.
Monday, crowds met them at the entrance of Jupiter Records. Marcy was there all smiles. She stood between Sakuya and Yuki and praised their genius as musicians and models. She promised interviews and appearances. Sasaki assured the crowd that the MD of Wicked was being pressed and due to be released by the end of the week.
Maria was back to being a wife and mother for a while since the contests were done. Aine was taking exams. Miya was still taking it easy and Yuuka was back to work. The week seemed to fly by for everyone and by Friday, everyone was dragging a little.
Yuuka, having left work decided to go to Jupiter and get in a quick work out. She knew Atsuro would be working late but maybe they could go home together or she could at least go get supper for the guys.
After lifting, flexing and sweating for an hour she showered and called down to the studio. Atsuro was more than happy to hear that she was there and happier still to hear she would be bringing them food.
Happily she went to the stairwell. Often she used the stairs instead of the elevator. It was like her cool down after her work out. She was on the sixth floor so it wasn't too bad. Running lightly down the steps she mentally went over what needed to be done when she got home that evening. Yuuka didn't see it. But then it was designed not to be seen. She was heading down the third flight of steps when her ankle was held back by something.
Yuuka cried out and tried to catch herself. It didn't help. She turned to the side as the steps rushed towards her face. Her breath was forced out of her as hit then flipped over. She couldn't count the number of times the hard steps connected with her body. Finally she hit the wall with her head. "Oh… At...su…" It was a mere whisper that left her open lips. She couldn't move. Everything hurt and she was in the most uncomfortable position ever. "He…lp…" Yuuka's last sight was of the white and red wall.
Marcy entered the stairwell and quietly descended. "Oh my, you did fall didn't you?" She said when she leaned over and saw the unconscious Yuuka. "This should put you out of my way for a long while if not permanently." She chuckled and carefully made her way to the place where she'd strung up the thin wire. Marcy cut the wire, removed it from the railing then using a small handheld drill, unscrewed the screw holding the rest of the wire out of the wall and used putty to cover the hole she'd drilled in the wall slipping everything in her large purse.
Curious, Marcy went the rest of the way down to get a closer look at Yuuka. Unfortunately she saw that the young woman was still breathing but even in her unconscious state, tears were leaving her eyes. "Good, at least you'll learn what pain and suffering is all about! The shit I've had to put up with because of you 'Lucifer Ladies!' Bitches, nothing but bitches!" Marcy practically spat on Yuuka then smiled and took a deep breath. "Hmm, now what do I want for dinner? They make a big deal about ramen in this country and I haven't tried but one kind so far. I hope it's not too fattening, well no matter, I can work it off in the gym tomorrow. I'll have it all to myself after all!" Laughing Marcy turned and went back up the stairs avoiding Yuuka's personal belongings and the smattering of blood here and there.
It was after hours and the stairs didn't contain any cameras. She headed back to her office for her briefcase and jacket then took the elevator down. Marcy waved to the cute guard who'd told her Yuuka was in the gym and how the young lady liked to use the stairs instead of the elevator. As she left the guard's replacement showed up and he didn't know Yuuka was even in the building.
The sounds of Tokyo greeted her and Marcy walked with a light step thinking that the bitch in the stairwell would be an unwelcome surprise for somebody the next morning. Humming Wicked and daydreaming of Sakuya, Marcy headed for a nearby restaurant.