A/N: This chapter, and the recreation and transformation of Isaya Shouto for this story, is dedicated to my numero uno homie Kezzi Kun! Her birthday is tomorrow, and she's turning 84! She's doing amazing for her age! Please wish her a happy 84th birthday and read her new story! Mwah! If anyone's interested, we could all chip in and buy her a cane?

Hope you like my new chapter, guys! The response for the last one was so great, I love reading your reactions and predictions. Much love!

Danime95: Thank you for your kind review, and thanks for reading!

Chapter 8: Her Boss, Not Her Drinking Partner

The airplane engines hummed as the private jet soared through the air, going thousands of miles an hour. The interior was sleek and custom-made; the Kuran flower adorned everything from the seats to the complimentary napkins – the fleur de lis was everywhere, yet its presence was still subtle. There was but one flight attendant on the flight, and she disappeared frequently in the background, leaving the two passengers on their own.

"I don't understand. Why didn't we take Isaya's jet like everyone else? Why isn't Takuma here?" Yuuki inquired, dragging her eyes from the airplane window towards her boss.

Kaname tilted his head, a lazy smile curling his lips as he gazed at her.

"Kaname…?" He looked creepy, to be honest – completely spaced out, like he'd forgotten about everything else in the world.

He shook his head slightly. As Yuuki had glanced out of the window, his eyes had been drawn to her, latching onto every detail about her. He was just so happy that she'd agreed to come along; that they could share the private jet in peace and quiet; that he would get to show her the wonderful island of Singapore – and most importantly – that he'd get to see her in a bikini soon.

He raised his eyebrows.

"I said 'why didn't we take Isaya's jet like everyone else?'" She huffed. Being alone with him on the airplane was absolute torture. Ever since they had their almost kiss, he'd been acting different towards her; freer and more open – flirty. It annoyed her to no end to hear his innuendos and puns directed at her. She was willing to bet her entire fortune that he was just teasing her for almost kissing him – after all, a man like him had no business kissing a girl like her – so to him it must've been hilarious.

Not that it meant anything to her, but the whole incident had shaken her up. Suddenly she was walking on eggshells around him, constantly afraid of him bringing it up and killing her out of sheer embarrassment. She just wished it'd never happened.

"Because… there was no space left." He lied smoothly.

"You mean to tell me there was no space left in his giant airbus private jet?"

"Aviation safety regulations," he quipped. "Why? Are you afraid of spending time alone with me?"

"N-no," she stuttered. "Of course not. Do I have a reason to be?"

"None that I can think of…" He trailed off. "I'm quite harmless."

"Harmless," she snorted.

"I'm not?" He questioned, waiting for an opportunity to tease her.

"I…" Damnit, he was doing it again – leading her into a corner only to watch her squirm.

Fine – she'd turn the tables on him. She uncrossed her legs, making sure her skirt rode slightly up her thighs as she did so. Noticing his eyes shift towards her legs, she stretched her right leg forward, the heel of her pumps grazing against the fabric of his pants.

"… feel so confined, that's all. A little stretching should do…" Her voice was sultry as she pouted, carefully watching his reactions.

His Adam's apple bobbed as he gulped, his eyes trained on the slim leg that grazed his. Suddenly he felt hot and constricted; his pants tightening as he felt sweat gather at his temples. He did his very best not to pant like an animal in heat; but the problem was that he actually was an animal in heat – and his prey was teasing him mercilessly.

"Hope you don't mind…" She whispered, her voice low as her leg traveled higher. "I'm just so stiff."

"N-not at all," Kaname mumbled, his eyes trailing the length of her leg – beginning at her ankle, past her kneecap, onto her creamy thighs and finally ending where her skirt covered skin.

Kaname closed his eyes as he grit his teeth, willing his mind to shift gears. All he could think of was touching her delectable limb and trailing his hands upwards to the center between her legs. God, this teasing… It made him want her more than ever. She'd never gone out of her way to tease him like this before; but now that she had, he almost regretted instigating this situation as he felt himself slowly lose the fight against his desires.

Think of something disgusting! Um… Still he couldn't keep his eyes off her legs, lust humming through his veins as his attraction grew.

Damnit! Come on, think… Oh, wait I got it – marrying Sara. That's… well that's so unrealistic that it has no effect on me whatsoever. Okay then, what else? Uh… That time I walked in on my parents in my dad's office doi–

Yuuki's phone buzzed on the small table next to her. She gave him one last seductive glance before grabbing her phone, grinning as she unlocked the screen and checked her messages.

Noticing the sender and the content, she laughed lightly and blushed, absentmindedly removing her leg from Kaname and crossing it over her left one.

Kaname sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose, happy that she'd at least taken down her leg. Had she held it there a minute longer he would've exploded in his seat.

Yuuki quieted as she tapped away on her phone. He peaked at her, studying the light smile that graced her features as she stared blindly into her phone screen.

Clearing his throat, he straightened and sat back in his seat, glancing at her from beneath dark lashes. "What are you so happy about?"

"Hmm?"

Not this again… Kaname growled, annoyed that her attention was directed elsewhere than him.

"Who are you texting?" He demanding a little bit louder, craning his neck as he tried to catch a glimpse of her phone screen.

"Zero…" She replied absentmindedly, texting away.

Kaname didn't need to list any more turn-offs to calm himself down. The name alone made his gut twist in disgust. Why on earth was she texting with that douche when she was going on a trip with him?

Wait a minute… texting?

"Y-you can't text on the airplane!" Kaname threatened, reaching his hand forward as he tried to grab her phone. "It's dangerous!"

"Hey, quit it!" She held her phone as far away from him as she physically could, dodging his desperate hands. "And yes I can! I'm using the wi-fi here, dummy."

Kaname retreated into his seat, fuming. He would have to get ask his crew to disable the wi-fi for future flights.

"Stupid technology…" He muttered, staring out the window as his secretary happily tapped away at her phone, ignoring his sour mood.

"He seriously rented the whole top floor and the infinity pool?"

"Mhm," Kaname almost didn't bother to reply.

"Just for the companies?"

"Yep."

"And it's… safe?"

"Yep."

"And we can eat and drink whatever we like? Everything's on him?"

"Yep."

"Is it true that he invented the latest spaceship for NASA and also the cure to AIDS?"

"Yep."

"Kaname!" Yuuki bellowed, stomping her foot. He barely glanced at her before returning to his staring contest with the elevator doors. "Damnit! Stop being so childish!"

"I'm not being childish," he huffed indignantly. "I'll be thirty soon, mind you."

"Then act like it!" She hissed, hitting his arm. "I get that you don't like him due to how he's treated you in the past, but you can't get mad at me for simply texting him."

"I'm not mad."

"Yes, you are!"

"I'm not!"

"You are!

"Am not!"

"You lying son of a b–"

DING! The elevator doors opened and revealed the upper deck of the hotel. The floor was coated with people; scantily clad waitresses roamed the area as they served drinks to the already buzzed crowd. Tropical music boomed in the background as people jumped in and out of the infinity pool, gazing at the magnificent view. From businessmen to influential social media moguls; everyone that was worth mentioning was here at this very party.

Kaname exited the elevator and trudged through the mass of people. Yuuki fought to keep up, annoyed at his behavior and further irritated by the pushy people she had to dodge as she trailed after him.

Suddenly, he grabbed her hand and held it as he guided her through the crowd. Hadn't it been for the fact that he'd been acting like an ass earlier, Yuuki would've blushed and smiled, grateful for his gesture.

Still, she felt warmth spread from where their skin touched.

He led her to a group of people at the back of the party. Upon spotting Kaname, the people quickly dispersed, leaving only one man behind.

"Isaya, it's nice to meet you again," Kaname greeted, shaking his hand.

Ahh, so this is what he looks like up-close. Yuuki knew who he was from magazines and pictures; yet seeing the man up-close was something different. Long locks of ash-blonde hair fell over wide shoulders; the man's face was elegant and well structured – it was like everything about him exuded grace and nobility. His eyes were the most magnetizing shade of grey with gold specks in it, adding to his already ethereal appearance.

"Likewise," Isaya said, grabbing Kaname's hand and pulling him into his embrace. "Ahh… I felt like our destinies were bound to intertwine, and here we are. I feel so connected. So in tune. Like the universe has brought our companies and our souls together to join in harmony."

Yuuki's jaw almost dropped to the floor. Did he just say that out loud?

"Y-es," she heard Kaname reply awkwardly from the crook of his neck as he let go.

Isaya turned his piercing grey eyes towards Yuuki. "And what lovely creature is standing next to you?"

"This is Yuuki, my secretary," Kaname said, gesturing for Yuuki to step forward.

"Hi – oomf!" She greeted as Isaya grabbed her into his embrace, hugging her tightly.

"Ahh… With you, too, I feel a connection. Isn't it wonderful? Please, do call me Isaya – being formal is not something I participate in. I can tell just by meeting you that you, like the rest of us, are connected through the stars and the planets with us likeminded souls. You smell wonderful – is it jasmine? Ahhh…"

When he finally released her, Yuuki was beet-red. "Ohh, um, yes. My father likes to cold-press flowers and turn the oils into perfumes. You sure are… friendly."

Isaya flipped his long hair, smiling dreamily. "In this world filled with enemies, why not be friends? I'm so glad you came." He put his arms around Kaname and Yuuki's shoulders, walking them towards the drink tables. "You two are one wonderful couple. Your radiance blinds me; I sense it from a distance, like birds sense the shift of the sun in the sky."

"Oh – we're not a couple," Yuuki mumbled, her eyes wide at his openness.

"Your souls are connected and oh how I wish to interact with your soulful coupling."

"S-soulful coupling!?" Yuuki spluttered. She couldn't get a glimpse of Kaname due to Isaya blocking her view, but she wondered how he was taking these comments. Perhaps he was used to Isaya's strange words?

"Now, now," Isaya said, stopping by the table as he started making drinks. "We are here to celebrate the union of our companies – not our bodies – though if that occasion comes up, I won't object to the laws of attraction."

Yuuki blinked, giving Kaname an incredulous look. She noticed his expressionless mask crack as his lip quivered, fighting to hold back his laugh. As she watched him unravel, she too felt her lips quiver as fought back her laugh. The more he let go, the harder it was to not laugh. Finally, he winked at her and put his finger to his mouth, shushing her.

"Here," Isaya said, handing them two shots. "I am usually not much of a drinker; but when I decide to do it, I drink to feel. To experience; to bask in the release of alcohol in my veins. For tonight and tomorrow, please let go and let your dreams and desires release in the liberating joy of alcohol."

"Bottoms up," Kaname quipped, giving Yuuki a daring look.

She huffed and grabbed the drink, drowning the liqueur in one go at the same time as they did.

Isaya held his hands out as he breathed in deeply. "Ah, feel that? The burn of being alive. The burn of passion!"

He glanced at them again, smiling amicably. "You must excuse me for now, as the faeries in my ear are whispering that there is more to come this night. Enjoy yourselves, my darlings."

His hair billowed around him as he turned, like an angel stalking the floor.

Yuuki couldn't hold back her giggle. Kaname soon joined her in her laughter, grinning as he watched her wipe a lone tear.

"Ah… that was…"

"I told you he is insane," Kaname chuckled, reaching for a glass of wine.

"Yeah, you did…" Yuuki trailed off, feeling her high dim. "Kaname…"

"Yes?" He inquired, still busy with the drinks.

"I don't like it when we fight. I like it when we can share laughs and be silly together…"

Kaname exhaled deeply before turning back to her. "I feel the same, Yuuki. I'm sorry for my behavior – it was completely uncalled for."

"Yeah, it was," she raised her eyebrows, "but I forgive you. Also, I shouldn't have just ignored you like that either as soon as he texted me. That was rude of me." She cocked her head to the side, giving him a hopeful smile. "Wanna be friends for the rest of the evening?"

Friends, huh… He grabbed one of the nearby white roses and removed the stem so only a few inches were left. Carefully he tucked it above her ear, watching as the white rose contrasted with her auburn hair. The rose matched her beautiful white sundress – it draped across her body elegantly, showing off her curves without being too revealing. She looked like the definition of grace and beauty – he wanted her so badly on his arm so he could show her off to the world and claim that this elegant woman was his.

He brushed a stray lock away from her face. "On one condition…"

"What's that?" She blushed at his gesture, still uncertain if his behavior was inappropriate or not and if she should react on it.

"Have another shot with me."

One shot turned into several shots, and one drink turned into several drinks; the heat of the climate, coupled with the alluring music that filtered the hotel deck created an enchanting mood. Soon, Yuuki found herself way past the point of inebriation; no longer uncomfortable or shy, she mingled like a pro and had the time of her life, laughing and smiling like a fool.

She moved onto the dancefloor as the song changed, a sensual and subtle rhythm booming from the speakers as the female and the male voice belted out the lyrics. The hum of guitars swayed softly as the drums and the tambourine created a steady rhythm.

At one point, she and Kaname had separated during the party, as he'd been busy talking about some business-deals and other things with important people. She'd hung out with Takuma for a bit and played beer pong with him; laughing as he lost again and again, watching the blonde become intoxicated. They'd even tried imitating famous K-pop routines together, and Yuuki had suffered her first laughter fit in years – Takuma was a great vice president, but a horrible dancer. His future as an idol looked bleak.

The night was winding down, the stars faint on the darkening skyline above her. A light breeze rustled her hair and cooled her heated skin.

"Enjoying yourself?"

His whisper in her ear was welcome as she felt his right hand trail down her side, while his left bolted around her waist.

"Mhmm," she hummed and closed her eyes, dancing lazily into him like a slave to the beat.

Had she'd been a tad bit more sober, she would've reacted on his wandering hands; instead she let it go, enjoying the attention and his proximity.

He nuzzled her neck, hot breath fanning her skin as he spoke. "I bet you're glad you decided to join me…"

"I am…" She whispered, still lost in the music.

They continued the inappropriate dancing; by now the guests were too drunk to recognize them – not that they cared, of course. With their reservations stripped away due to the alcohol filtering their blood, they were free to enjoy the celebration and the excitement in the air.

Most importantly, they were free to be closer than usual.

She turned in his embrace and laced her arms around his neck, staring up into his hooded eyes.

His hands slid down her narrow waist on their own accord, feeling the contours of her body and wishing the piece of clothing weren't between him and her skin. His hand grasped her behind and squeezed.

"This is inappropriate. You're inappropriate," she slurred, grinning lazily.

He pouted uncharacteristically back. "You make me do inappropriate things. But I want you to…"

"Want me to what?" She whispered, leaning up against him.

"To… to… Umm," he blinked, trying to clear his head. What had he been thinking again?

He'd spotted her on the floor, dancing by herself as some men ogled her. Transfixed by her seductive moves and alluring body, he'd slithered his way to her, the alcohol in his veins giving him a rush of courage. He quickly scared the men away, and ensnared her in his arms. He wasn't usually a big drinker, but the pressure from his co-workers had forced him to accept a few drinks – and once he'd started drinking, he'd figured that drinking some more would help him cope with his nervousness upon having her so close.

And judging by the unfocused look in her eyes, and the fact that she wasn't pushing his lusty hands away, she'd had a few drinks too.

"You're drunk," she teased.

"You're drunk," he retorted, snorting at his poor argument.

"Does it matter?" She sighed. "We're having a good time, aren't we?"

"I certainly am," he whispered, his voice low. He felt his need for her expand and rock his bones; he was so used to restraining himself, but now his defenses were down and she was here – in his arms. Not…

"Do you loh im?" He slurred, frowning at her.

"Do I what? Huh?"

"Do you… love him?"

"Zero?" Her eyes widened. "Nah…"

"Nah…" He repeated, mimicking her.

"Naaaaah," she teased, grinning at him.

He was just about to respond as a loud yell interrupted him.

"Marco, Polo! Ichijou Takuma in da buildinnng jumping in this b-word like a MAAAAAN!" The two watched as Ichijou unceremoniously jumped into the giant pool, fully clothed with a champagne bottle in his hand. Jerking his head out of the water like a spasming seal, he swung the champagne bottle to his lips and took a big swig. "Join me, everyone!"

People jumped into the pool, one by one, yelling drunkenly. In the corner of the bar, some men were fighting over whom should get to take the last beer left – not realizing that there were hundreds of unopened bottles right behind them.

"Ah, I don't believe in threesomes or foursomes or whatever have you," Isaya muttered in the distance as they watched him leave with a harem of men and women, "I believe in the spiritual and physical union of the vessels that carry our souls. Male, female – we're all beings of lust and desire. What's mine is yours, my heavenly lovers!"

"Okaaaay, this party is getting out of hand," Yuuki slurred. "Let's leave."

"Not so soooon," Kaname whined, reluctant to let go of her.

"Elevator!" Yuuki roared in his face. "Noow, bossy!"

"Bossy," Kaname giggled, following her towards the elevator. "You're bossy!"

They darted through the crowd, dodging the drunks and the scurrying waitresses, giggling as they did so.

"Nooo," Yuuki snorted loudly, "that's you! Cause you're the boss!"

"I'm the boss!" Kaname bellowed, punching the buttons on the elevator and dragging her inside.

"Best boss ever!" Yuuki giggled, stumbling slightly.

"Oh yeah, what else am I good at?" He slurred, taking a step towards her as he grinned.

"Lootss of things," she smirked, her pupils dilated as she stared at him.

"Like what?" He challenged as he swayed slightly from side to side.

"Working out!" she exclaimed, fanning herself as her eyes trailed down his slightly unbuttoned shirt. "Like… goodness, how do you do it?"

Kaname threw his head back and flexed his arms like a bodybuilder. "Oh, theeese? I just do a push-up or two, a run here and there. It just comes natural to me. I'm a natural, yep."

She touched his biceps and clenched them, her eyes widening at the strength of the iron-like muscles beneath her fingertips. "You started working out a loot more the past two years." She waved her arms around, trying to explain.

"It's like… like you're iron man, but you don't look like it, you know? You know? You're… shexier."

The elevator suddenly jumped, coming to a slight halt. He lost his balance and braced himself against the wall, his hands landing on each side of her face.

Suddenly she was caged in his arms as he leaned closer. Having lost her shyness due to the alcohol in her veins, Yuuki stared bravely back at him, mirth dancing in her eyes, daring him to act.

"Sexy, huh? What else, Yuuuu-ki?" He whispered as he leaned closer.

"Teasing," she accused, following his lead and lifting her head from the wall, leaning in closer. "You're really good at it." She grabbed his tie and jerked it. "You really are a meanie."

"Says the tease," he slurred, his eyes glancing down at her mouth. There were barely any inches between them now; the distance so narrow he was sure if he only jerked his head he'd be kissing her.

"What are you talking 'bout?" She slurred, biting her lower lip and releasing it. "I'm just a secretary…"

Despite herself, she leaned closer, her mouth almost reaching his. Kaname leaned in and was about to close the distance when the elevator doors opened. A man and a woman walked in, laughing loudly as they grinned at each other.

Kaname retracted from Yuuki and slammed himself into the wall next to her. He nodded tersely at the man and woman as they entered. Next to him, Yuuki was blushing furiously, her drunken mind working overtime to figure out what'd just happened.

The boss and the secretary remained completely silent as the elevator rode down the next floors, finally stopping at their level.

They walked out in silence, Yuuki stumbling slightly in her heels before giving up. She kicked them of her feet and bent over to grab them, almost falling over had it not been for her boss holding her back.

She was able to reclaim her height as she held her shoes in one hand. Still slightly drunk, some part of her knew she should be embarrassed and mortified that she'd almost just made out with her boss in the elevator, yet she couldn't bring herself to care.

"Well uh… this is my room," she slurred, pointing to the door behind Kaname's back.

"Yeah…" He blinked.

The silence stretched on as they stared at each other, anticipation humming in the air.

"I should… leave."

"Ah," she nodded, feeling hot and flustered. She made a move to step around him on her right just as he took a step to his left.

"Oops," she giggled, taking a step to the left just as he took a step his right.

"Oh, sorry," he apologized, quickly darting to his left so she could pass.

She bumped into him accidentally as she neared her door. "I'm sorry…"

"No need to be sorry. I'm sorry."

"Stop saying sorry!" She giggled, aiming with her keycard to open her door.

"Sorry," he shrugged and grinned, watching as she opened the door.

Their eyes connected as she gave him one last look. Without using words, they were both discussing whether they should talk about what'd happened or not. She pursed her lips and smiled, deciding not to mention it.

"Goodnight, Kaname…" She whispered, closing the door.

"Goodnight…"

As soon as she closed her door, Kaname waited approximately 10 seconds before jumping out of joy.

"YEESSSSSS!" He whispered as loudly as he could, kicking his feet in the air as he jumped. So close! Their second almost kiss! If he'd known getting drunk with Yuuki was the key to getting closer to her, he'd done it a looong time ago. Judging by her reactions and actions, he could tell she wanted him too.

In his drunken mind, Kaname reasoned that starting a relationship while he was still her boss was no problem. She obviously wanted him back – and they worked magnificently together – why not combine that!? Business and pleasure with the woman he loved and adored more than anything – what could possibly be better?

Tomorrow, he would have her. After the constant teasing and their almost kisses, he knew he couldn't wait anymore. He'd wear her down and get her to admit her attraction – and then they'd make love like wild animals in heat.

This weekend was quickly turning into the best of his life.

Kaname hummed as he made the short trip down to his room, dancing slightly as he swung through the hallways. He did a small spin before he unlocked the door, immediately kicking off his shoes once he was inside his suite.

He flung himself onto the bed and closed his eyes, sighing happily as sleep claimed his hazy mind.

Life couldn't get better.

Life couldn't get worse.

Well, actually, the day had started quite well. After sleeping off his hangover, Kaname had went up to the infinity pool and eaten his breakfast, watching as Yuuki strutted around in her white bikini. He felt like a creep ogling her like that – but really, it was pure coincidence that he decided to have his breakfast by the pool at a spot where he had the perfect view of her.

Really, it was just his good fortune.

And when he'd gone to the bar, he'd accidentally bumped into her – after rushing there seeing that she'd been heading there – and greeted her. She'd blushed adorably, clearly embarrassed by last night.

"About… what happened last night," she mumbled, looking down. It gave him the perfect opportunity to study her perfectly portioned breasts and her flat stomach. He resisted the urge to groan out in pain from having to resist her.

"What?" He inquired innocently, temporarily taming his lust.

"You know…" She whispered, staring intently at him.

"I'm afraid I don't understand…" He trailed off, pretending not to know.

"I-In the elevator," she hissed as her blush deepened.

"Oh! Our almost kiss? What about it?" He smiled.

"K-kiss!?" She gasped. "It wasn't… well, I… I mean, I didn't try to initiate anything. I mean…"

"It's alright, Yuuki," he tapped her lower lip. "I'm actually quite flattered to be on the receiving end of such attention… I'm sure we'll be able to… piece together what happened later tonight, and possibly…" He traced her lower lip with his thumb, garnet eyes filled with lust.

"B-but I–"

"If you'll excuse me, I have to get to a meeting now," he smiled and walked away, leaving her flustered. "Be a good girl until tonight, yes? And when I see you again… don't be afraid to be a little bit naughty." He gave her one last wink.

He didn't turn around to watch her reaction – but he knew her blush must've deepened to a volcanic level. No matter – he'd help her sort out her conflicted emotions and attractions later tonight.

The day passed quickly, and soon they found themselves at the second party. Tomorrow they would be leaving; and so, Kaname found it fitting that this final night would be the night when they gave in to their desires. To think that they left Japan as boss and secretary, and would return as lovers made satisfaction crawl up his spine. Claiming her and confessing to her had been a longtime dream of his; and now that she was giving him these mixed signals – teasing him on the plane, dirty dancing with him by the pool, almost kissing him again in the elevator – he knew there was definitely something there. He just had to get it out of her – make her see the potential of their relationship; if she thought he was treating her nice now that she was only his employee, then she'd be in for a shock once they got together. He'd treat her like his Queen – because that was what she was. His perfect match in every way; everything he desired – classy, funny, intelligent, sophisticated and stunningly alluring in a bikini. He'd never felt this way about someone before – so it had to mean something. She'd realize soon enough.

But then, there was that damn phone again.

Kaname grabbed his whiskey and downed the bitter liqueur, wincing as it burned his throat.

It'd started with texting. As he'd tried to talk to her about last night over drinks as party number two commenced by the infinity pool, she'd told him that it was Yori texting her. Which was fine – not ideal considering he was about to free them both from the lustful prison they were both incarcerated in – but fine.

But then she'd started blushing and smiling into her phone, completely ignoring his existence. Her drink remained untouched as he ordered his fourth round.

He knew immediately that it was Zero. Of course it had to be – right in this very moment when she was on a company holiday with him. Of course.

And then… the brat had the audacity to call her.

And though she had the right to pick it up, she didn't have to do it.

But she did anyways.

"Hi, Zero! Yeah, yeah, I'm at the party now but there's not really much happening right now. Yeah, I know it's really beautiful here – wow you've been here five times before!? Wow!"

Kaname snorted. He'd been here way more times. He started counting in his head; once with his parents, that other time with Ichijou and…. this trip.

He'd only been to Singapore three times and… Zero Kiryuu had been here five times.

He downed his drink again, gesturing for the waitress to bring him another round.

"No, I'm not busy. Yeah, sure I can talk… Just lemme get out of the noisy area and…" She tapped Kaname's shoulder, giving him a small smile as she mouthed "10 minutes".

He tried to smile as sincerely as possible while he nodded, though he suspected it came out more as a grimace. Not that she noticed anyway – she wasted no time in escaping him.

Her supposed '10 minutes' had turned into hours, and soon Kaname found himself very much inebriated as he sulked.

Yesterday, the love of his life had almost kissed him; today she left him so she could call her boyfriend.

Life was cruel.

It was getting late, and in his drunken mind he recognized several people trying to connect with him; young and ambitious business men, hopeful ladies that wanted to share his bed – he was surrounded against his will at all time. And still, his secretary was nowhere to be found.

"I-I'm telling you again," he slurred, slapping his hand on the table. "She wants me!"

"Totally!" His vice president slurred, taking a swig of his whiskey and wincing. "Why wouldn't she!? You're Kanameh-sahmaah!"

"Yes!" Kaname exclaimed. "I am and… and he's not Kanameh-shhamah!"

"He could never be!" Ichijou yelled. "Never everr…"

He clutched Kaname's hand, staring with unfocused eyes into Kaname's eyes. "Look, I hate seeing you in pain. I haaaaaaate it! You don't deserve it… but I feel like… like I should tell you the truth."

"What!?" Kaname exclaimed, clutching onto Ichijou's tie. "Have you been lying to me?" His lower lip quivered. "But you're my bestfriend…"

"I-I am?" With stars in his green eyes, Ichijou gasped.

"Not anymore!" Kaname huffed. "Cause bestfriends don't lieee…"

"I didn't lie! I just didn't want to tell you… oh please, let me be your bestfriend again!"

Kaname swung his head, strands of silky mahogany hair fluttering elegantly on his shoulders. Vaguely, Ichijou thought he looked like one of those male models that fronted those shampoo commercials. With long lashes and glossy lips, staring into the camera as they said words like "roses are the essence of life – why not let your hair smell like a rose garden? Ahhh".

What a great idea! Not caring that he was piss drunk, Ichijou drafted out a plan to send Kaname on an audition for a shampoo commercial.

The CEO turned male-shampoo-model raised his chin as he clumsily narrowed his eyes at Ichijou. "Then confess."

"Look, I promised Yuuki I wouldn't tell you anything, but she's quitting." He shook his head. "No, she'll quit soon. It's time, she said to me. And I wanted to tell you, but I knew it'd break your heart so I didn't. But then it ate away at me and it got really painful, you know? Like… holding it in when you really, really have to pee but there's no bathroom in sight and nowhere to hide…" Ichijou frowned. "Speaking of peeing, I really gotta–"

"She's…" Kaname mumbled, shaking his head, trying to clear his thoughts. "…leaving?" In his drunken mind, Kaname faintly registered the ache that snared itself around his heart. He felt hurt. And scared.

He'd calculated that she'd stay maybe a year more or so. He hadn't really considered the fact that she wanted to leave him now.

Suddenly he was panicking; what if she left before he could confess? What if she never knew the truth? What if they never amounted to anything more than secretary and boss because he was too chicken to confess?

What if she decided to date Zero full-time, because Kaname had been too much of a coward?

"No, seriously, I really have to pee," Ichijou screeched, fleeing the bar in search of a bathroom.

He felt the sudden urge to cry. And to throw the chairs around and ravage what he could find. He wanted to throw a tantrum; scream and yell out his frustrations as the fear of losing Yuuki permanently wrapped itself around him.

Instead he sat there, all alone, lost in his thoughts.

Where are you, Yuuki?

"Oh, gosh," Yuuki muttered as she fought her way through the drunken crowd. Her phone call with Zero had ended up in a two-hour long conversation about his movies and his tours and his fans and his life. He was a great guy and all, and he could be really charming and likeable – but sometimes he was just so… full of himself.

Not once did he ask about her father; not once did he wonder how she was doing – instead he spent the time talking about himself, going on a tirade about how much he hated bears, because a black bear had killed his biological parents when they'd gone hunting a few years back when he was younger. Though it was a sad story, it was a little bit too much for Yuuki – she barely knew the guy, and suddenly he was serving up his life story and proclaiming his hatred for all kinds of bears. He whined and whined, angry like a little child, swearing that he would kill all bears.

Finally, Yuuki had been able to make up a silly excuse to end the conversation, and she'd left the lobby. But as she arrived at the party, she'd started talking to some new acquaintances, and soon hours had gone by without her noticing. She refrained from drinking too much, not wanting a repeat performance of last night. Kaname had said they'd talk about what happened, and though she dreaded the conversation, she also felt like she needed some clarity on their relationship.

They were always crisscrossing lines, and it needed to stop if they were to maintain a professional relationship. Tonight she would set the record straight with him; make new rules so something last night wouldn't happen again in the future.

She found him by the bar, hanging over a barstool.

But he was not alone.

A pretty young thing was lathered upon him, pushing her breasts in his face as she tried to seduce him. The hunger in her eyes was palpable; Yuuki had no doubt in her mind that she'd once again encountered a real-life gold-digger in her natural habitat.

No matter. Over the years she'd worked with Kaname, she'd come to learn that he was an unwilling women-magnet. Ladies flocked to him like crazed animals wherever they went, begging for his attention. For some reason he never reciprocated; and while some of them were more determined than others, they would always back off when Yuuki played her part.

"Hands off," Yuuki commanded, strutting over to the bar.

The woman gave her a sour look. "And you are…?"

"His third wife and counting. If you wanna be the fourth, you better step up your game."

She stroked his back while his face remained planted on the bar countertop. "Honey," she said through gritted teeth, "is this the flavor of the night? Surely you can do better."

The woman gasped, her brows furrowing "You b–"

"Bitch?" Yuuki smiled, batting her lashes. "How kind of you. Now shoo, go find some other poor soul to leech off."

The woman scampered away; annoyed and secretly threatened by the overwhelming presence of the alpha-female that was Kurosu Yuuki.

She smiled, secretly pleased with herself. She really was getting good at this.

When her boss didn't stir, she looked down at his back worriedly. "Hey, Kaname, you all right?"

He mumbled incoherently, his voice muffled by the countertop. She stroked his back gently and leaned down, trying to turn his face towards her.

"Eaving…" He mumbled.

"Aha…" She patted his back. "I think someone's had enough. Drinking like this really doesn't suit you, Kaname. Come," she helped him get off the chair. "Let's go to your room, hm?"

He leaned on her, his weight challenging her walk as she guided them through the crowd. Eventually she made it to the elevator and led him inside, pushing the button for their floor quickly.

Kaname leaned against the wall, eerily quiet.

Suddenly she remembered the last time they were in an elevator together. The teasing and the silly banter; mischievous looks and smiles; his lips almost upon hers, so close she could almost taste them…

She pursed her lips, willing herself to not read into it too much, a blush staining her cheeks. It was hot – she was willing to admit it, but also highly inappropriate. Had it not been for his state, she would've confronted him about their moment and how their relationship had changed over the past few months. She would've set her foot down and made some rules for them, mapping out the right actions and the wrong actions.

She sighed as the elevator reached their floor, and pulled him out. As soon as they'd stepped out of the elevator, he stopped moving, his feet planting firmly into the ground. She halted as he refused to move, her hand pulling at him with all her strength.

Finally she turned, peering at him with curious eyes. "What's wrong, Kaname?"

Somehow he'd managed to sober up a little bit. His eyes were still unfocused and dilated, but she could tell that he was coherent enough to recognize her and the situation they were in.

"You…"

"I what?" She spoke softly, mindful of his condition.

"You're leaving..." He whispered.

"Uh…" She trailed off. "No, no. I'm taking you to your room so you can sleep. Then I'm going to my room. I'm not leaving you just yet. Come!"

She pulled his hand again, but he resisted.

"Awh, come on Kaname! I don't have al–"

"Earlier tonight, you disappeared… Y-you said 10 minutes but it was… like a hundred years instead. And Ichijou told me that… that you are going to leave me now. Quit."

"Oh…" She whispered. Shit. "Look, the conversation lasted way longer than I wanted to! I tried to hang up but he was so damn stubborn," she laughed, trying to ease up the dampened mood. But his hurt expression refused to fade; the sadness in his eyes and the downturned curl of his lips refused to leave his face as he stared directly into her soul.

It wasn't just the phone call, she realized. It was the unspoken truth that she was leaving soon.

It made her ache, seeing the pain on his face. She wanted to wipe it away and see him smiling again.

"I… Look, Kaname, it's complicated. But you knew this wouldn't last forever and–"

"How could you?" He demanded, his voice thick. "Leave, just like that…"

"I don't think you're thinking straight," she said carefully, not wanting to upset him further. "Listen, I–"

"Forget it," he said, rushing past her as quickly as he could, stumbling slightly.

"Kaname!" She yelled, running after him. He reached his room and unlocked it, storming in. She followed, slithering in just in time as the door was about to close forever.

"What's the matter with you?" She demanded, watching his turned back.

He turned, directing stormy eyes at her. "With me?" Kaname exclaimed. "Oh, nothing! I'm just your super boss."

"Cut the snark," Yuuki said darkly. "You're my friend. You can talk to me."

"Friend," he hissed, spitting out the title like it was venom in his mouth. "The friend you constantly abandon and ignore, too blind to see…"

"I said I'm sorry about leaving you alone," she pleaded, stepping towards him and grabbing the sleeve of his arm. "If it helps, I felt like an ass? Hm?"

He said nothing in response, his stormy eyes glancing back at her stonily.

"Come," she said, dragging his arm towards the bed and gesturing for him to lie down. He obliged robotically, his eyes trained on her as she tucked him into bed. "I know you're upset right now about something and you won't tell me, because that's what you do. You always hide your feelings away. It's okay, though, I'm used to it." She turned away from him, walking towards the hallway so she could take of her shoes. "Whatever it is, we'll talk about it tomorrow and work it ou–"

He grabbed her arm, stopping her. She paused and turned around, sighing. "Wha-"

"You know, don't you?"

Her ears failed to recognize the underlying broken sadness in his voice. "Know what?" Her fingers tried prying his hand away to no avail. He held on tightly like she was his anchor, but not so hard that he hurt her.

"I'm in love with you."

Kaname's whispered confession blended with the darkness of the suite.

"Yeah, ri–" It took a second for Yuuki to still her fingers, and another second for her to digest his words. Speechless, she stared at him, her eyes widening as his words trickled into her consciousness.

Her heart beat fast in her chest, drowning out everything else.

The desperation in his eyes; the sincerity in his voice… he wasn't joking around this time.

"You know, don't you? You know…" He slurred, his troubled eyes drinking in her appearance. His hand tightened on her arm. "Please…"

Yuuki was completely frozen. She was afraid that if she moved she'd ruin the moment forever. Everything felt surreal; vaguely she wondered if he was pranking her, but the sincerity in his eyes told her otherwise.

"You're drunk…" She mumbled, lowering her eyes.

"N-no," he protested. "I'm… head over heels for you; shot by the Cupid's bow, butterflies in my stomach whenever I see you. I'm recklessly, relentlessly and irrevocably in love with you, Yuuki. I've loved you ever since the moment I met you…"

Yuuki clenched her jaw. No, no, no, this was not happening right now. No.

With determination in her eyes, she threw the covers over his still-clothed body, working on autopilot as she covered him up, trying to distract herself as she reached over him.

He used his other hand to grab her left arm. She halted her movements, her face directly above his as he held her arms. Long tresses of hair fell down the side of her neck, shielding them from the outside world as his tender eyes caressed her face.

"I just thought you should know," he whispered. "I couldn't hold it in anymore… Please, don't hate me." His expression was filled with emotion; vaguely she realized that she'd never seen him so raw and vulnerable before – completely stripped of his protective mask.

Yuuki's lips trembled. He was in love with her? Kaname – her boss? She had trouble grasping it, and even more trouble decoding the emotions that wrecked her body at his confession. This was just not the right time. What could she say? What could she do? He couldn't love her – it was… unheard of! He was her boss for goodness sake! What would happen now? Would they still work together? What did she really feel?

Questions wrecked her mind and confused her heart. Her brain went into overdrive, unable to process what was going on, memories and thoughts churning together in her confusion. The raw vulnerability she saw in his eyes worked as a catalyst; suddenly all his strange actions made sense; the dinners, the compliments; how he was always so caring and attentive towards her; how he always made her feel better about herself, how he'd sometimes get angry whenever she mentioned her guy friends; the jealousy that flared whenever she mentioned Zero – like the missing pieces of a puzzle every memory knitted together, making realization dawn on Yuuki.

Kaname had been in love with her all along.

And deep down a part of her had known, yet she'd refused to believe it.

She didn't want to hurt him by leaving. But what was the next step? She couldn't stay here after this kind of confession. He was her boss – she couldn't cross that line with him. Ever. Even if she…

"I don't hate you," her whisper floated into the silence between them. "Go to sleep," she ordered, "I'll see you tomorrow."

As she turned and began walking away, she heard him get out of bed. "Yuuki, wait! Please, I didn't mean to–"

"Stop," her voice was firm and thick as she spoke, the lump in her throat making it harder to talk. "Don't… don't come any closer. I… I need some space. Please, don't follow me."

"Yuuki…"

She exited the room quickly, her heels clicking down the hallways.

… Did I say Kezzi-Kun turns 84? Hmm… I guess my math skills are off. Guess we'll never know how old she is. ;)

As for me, I shall now enter witness protection in fear of the repercussions of this very last scene. Bye!