I seriously thought that once my exams are over, I'll be free to write. Unfortunately, I was hit by every writer's worst nightmare – writer's block! I made so many mistakes while writing this chapter and I can only thank my wonderful beta, RiveReinStyx for her marvelous editing skills.
Thank you to Finderlov, Yaoifangirl89, oosuan, kawaiigirl, Rose Nusrat and FanofBellaandEdward for reminding me about Emi. I totally forgot about her! (Slaps hand on forehead)
This chapter is for Ninaloveanime who wanted to read a sick Akihito. I have to warn you that this chapter is probably not what you imagine. I apologize in advance if I disappoint you!
Warnings: Possible OOCs.
Disclaimer: Viewfinder and its notable characters belong to the great Yamane Ayano sensei. I probably own Toru and the rest of the baddies here.
Japan's top crime lord Asami Ryuuchi stood near the huge glass panel window in his office, staring at nowhere in particular as he inhaled a drag of his cigarette. His dependable secretary was less than three feet away, giving oral reports on the stock market and night club profits, something he would be reading in a while. He allowed his mind to wander briefly to his young lover, currently naked and warm under the duvet covers of their king size bed. Last night had been pleasurable for both of them; Akihito was more demanding than usual – crying out his name, begging him to ravish him more and he gladly obliged Akihito's every whim, giving him what he craved.
The crime lord pushed the image of a needy Akihito away, knowing that if he continued, he could no longer stay focus in his work. Turning to his secretary, he spoke, "Kirishima."
The secretary looked up from his file. "Yes, Asami sama?"
"What about the task I asked of you after the New Year?" the crime lord asked as he extinguished the half burnt stick in the ashtray. Casually unbuttoning the first button of his coat, he sat on his custom made leather seat and gazed his golden orbs at the bespectacled man.
Kirishima pushed his spectacles up. "If you are referring to the model Emi, I have already asked Model Inc to terminate her contract, as per request. Her ban from entering any of your premises or Takaba sama's premises has also taken effect."
Asami took one of the reports on his table and flipped it open. "And, did Model Inc agree to terminate her contract?"
His secretary smirked. "They panicked when I arrived at the company, representing you, sir. The CEO agreed immediately without even demanding for an explanation."
The yakuza signed the report, passing it back to Kirishima. "Good. Send a word out to all the other agencies and remind them of the consequences of offering her a contract with their companies."
"Very well, Asami sama. I will – "
The phone on Asami's desk rang, halting the secretary. Juggling the reports in his hand, Kirishima took a step forward to pick up the phone.
"Asami sama's office – Inspector Mori," Kirishima greeted and remained quiet for the next few minutes. Occasionally, he glanced at the yakuza worriedly before finally replying, "Very well, I shall let Asami sama know about it. Please keep us informed about the matter, thank you."
Replacing the phone on the desk, Kirishima spoke, "Inspector Mori has just received news that Mah Wing Shing managed to escape while being transported to the prison in China. He killed four guards in the van and stole their guns. Inspector Mori is worried that he might come to Japan for revenge."
Asami's golden eyes hardened. "When was this?"
"Five days ago. The Chinese officials called Inspector Mori after they suspected Mah might have left the country via the sea. They found the handcuffs near the port," Kirishima said. "Sir, what are your orders?"
Still composed, Asami looked up at his secretary. "Call Toru and Ando. Tell them to be on the lookout and keep the news away from Akihito."
"Understood," Kirishima bowed before looking at his boss worriedly. "What about you, Asami sama? Mah is likely to seek revenge for what you did to him. Do you need me to contact Suoh to arrange extra guards?"
"No– " the yakuza opened his drawer to retrieve his gun. Checking the magazine, he curved a smile, "I'll remind him the consequences of cheating me - all over again."
Kirishima wanted to protest but he knew better. Taking one last look at his formidable boss, he stepped out of the room discreetly to carry out his duties, all the while pondering what sort of war they will be facing.
No, I couldn't let anything happen to Asami sama. The simple thought of his boss lying on the floor, soaked in his own pool of blood chilled him to the bone. Pushing the image away, Kirishima decided that he'd rather face the consequences for disobeying his boss than regretting it later. For the first time in his many years as Asami's trusted subordinate, Kirishima Kei disobeyed orders. The secretary picked up his phone from his own desk and called his trusted friend, Suoh to arrange for extra protection for the crime lord.
Akihito had never felt like skipping work as much as he did today. He woke up, feeling a dull pain on his lower back as usual. Wincing in pain, Akihito gingerly applied pressure to ease the soreness. He thought he had gotten the hang off their nightly activities as it had been a while since he felt so sore but apparently, pain decided to play peek-a-boo with him.
The photographer tried to recall their lovemaking the night before, thinking of a particular position that may have caused the pain. He found it puzzling as Asami had been gentle last night; the older man even prepared him long enough to make him writhing in lust before entering him slowly, driving him crazy from the desire.
Shit, now my head starts to hurt. Akihito groaned as he threw away the duvet covers to get down from the bed. The moment he stood up, the joints on his ankles and knees hurt and without warning, fell off the bed, landing his sore bottom on the cold marble flooring.
Pain shot through his spine. "Ow!"
His cries sent his guard barging into the room with a gun ready in his outstretched hand.
"Takaba sama, are you all right?" Toru kept his gun, knelt down to assist the younger man up.
"Yeah, I lost my footing," Akihito lied, not wanting to tell his guard the truth about his fall.
"You look a little pale, do you want me to call Asami sama?" the guard knelt next to the photographer.
"No! I'm not a child, Toru. Don't report every single thing to him!" Akihito snapped.
Akihito looked at the handsome guard in front of him. His dark eyes were unreadable and emotionless but it didn't stop Akihito from feeling a little guilty for venting his anger at Toru, a guard he considered his friend.
"I'm sorry, Toru. I didn't mean to talk like that. I – " Akihito glanced at the bedside clock, gasping at the time. "SHIT! I'm late!"
Ignoring the pain on his knees and ankle, Akihito rushed into the bathroom and came out in a record breaking time, showered and fully awake. A person who never gave two cents about fashion, Akihito intended to grab the first clothing that came into his hands. He was however, saved from the task of picking his own clothes as they were already hung neatly on the closet door.
That man had impeccable taste for expensive clothing, Akihito mused as he dressed himself. The coat he traded with the old man at the convenience store a week and a half ago had been replaced by a newer, more expensive piece. Asami would never purchase anything cheap – period.
The photographer rushed out of the room to see his lanky guard standing by the door with his camera bag in his hands. "Toru, you are a lifesaver!" Akihito said gratefully as he took the bag off his guard's hands.
By the time Akihito slid into the back seat of the BMW, he was positive that something was wrong with him. His breath labored a little, his body ached all over and felt that the temperature dropped a few degrees. Maybe Toru had switched off the heater, he thought, glancing at the dashboard.
It's on full blast but why am I still shivering? Akihito hugged his coat tighter, trying to retain some body heat. He probably shouldn't have taken the shower or maybe he was still tired after their intense sex last night. He decided that it was the latter.
He crossed his fingers, hoping the photo shoot would go smoothly today as he wished for nothing more than to snuggle in the warmth of Asami's king size bed and sleep.
Toru stood at the corner of the studio, scrutinizing his master. There was something wrong with the photographer, he was positive of it. Initially, he thought it was due to the amount of nightly activities his master and boss shared but no matter how tired he was the next day, Akihito always showed the same amount of enthusiasm in his work.
Akihito at the moment looked dull, uninterested and tired. His face was flushed, his eyes red and puffy as he spoke quietly to the model, giving instructions for the model to pose.
"Toru san, can I ask you a question?" the guard next to him asked.
Eyes fixated on Akihito, the older guard nodded.
"Suoh san said that you recommended me to be Takaba sama's chauffer. Why did you pick me?"
"You're sharp and your skills are commendable."
Ando smiled a little. "Why do I have a feeling that those were not the only reasons you pick me?"
Toru glanced sideways at Ando before looking at his master again. "The person who gave the green light isn't me, Ando san. Asami sama makes the call."
Ando leaned against the wall. "I am really grateful for the chance though I am a little worried if I can do it right since I have no experience being a bodyguard. Security is what I do best."
When Toru remained silent, Ando continued, "And I am not going to lie, Toru san; I am afraid. I saw what you had to do at The Fixer and I can only tip my hat off at you for having the guts to pull the trigger. If it were me, I would have begged Asami sama for mercy."
At the mention of The Fixer, the taller guard tensed a little but showed no emotions. "It's – ," Toru halted for a moment, searching for the right words to convey what he felt, "not easy to do that," he concluded.
"Of course, you became famous overnight! The guards were saying that you're now in Asami sama's inner circle, becoming one of his most trusted guards."
Not a person comfortable with praises, Toru quickly changed the subject, "Did you see anyone suspicious outside?"
Ando went back to working mode. "None so far."
Toru nodded. "Asami sama instructed that the news about Mah's escape should be kept away from Takaba sama. Be careful with what you say in front of him."
"Understood," the younger guard replied, "But wouldn't it be better if we tell him?"
"We do not question Asami sama's decision, Ando san," Toru said as he kept his gaze on his master. When the photographer called for a wrap, Toru instructed, "Ando san, prepare the car. Make sure you check the car before entering."
Ando nodded. As he turned to the door, he glanced backwards and smiled. "Call me Ando, Toru san. We're going to be partners after all."
"Takaba san, thank you. I'm looking forward to seeing the photos!"
Akihito returned the manager's bow and managed a weak smile. "The photos should be ready in a few days, Nakai san."
As soon as Nakai and the model closed the doors to the studios, Akihito immediately crouched on the floor, placing the cameras in the bags quickly; he didn't think he could stand another minute standing. What he needed is some aspirins and sleep.
"Takaba sama, are you by any chance, unwell?"
The photographer raised his head to stare at his guard. "What are you saying, Toru?" He laughed.
"You look flushed and tired. You kept your coat on even though it is warm in here."
Damn Toru and his excellent observing skills. Akihito suspected that he was running a fever, considering his chills had gotten worse since morning. He didn't want to tell the guard, knowing that Toru was under strict orders to report his every movement to Asami. The last thing he wanted is to be dragged to the hospital by Toru on Asami's orders.
Gritting his teeth and bracing for the chill, Akihito removed the coat, "There, I am perfectly all right!"
The instant he said that, Akihito's muscles ached and his skin roughened as another wave of chill attacked him.
The guard raised his eyebrow, disbelief clearly written on his face. "I'm sorry Takaba sama, I have to do this – "
Without warning or waiting for Akihito to respond, Toru gripped the photographer with a hand to steady him and placed the other on his forehead.
"Hey!" Akihito protested.
Toru released Akihito, bowing a little. "My apologies for being so rough, Takaba sama. You are running a fever and your body is burning," he said in a somewhat concerned voice.
"I – I'm not!" the younger man denied, wrapping his coat for some much needed heat.
Toru sighed. Bending slightly to pick up Akihito's camera bag, he took the rest of the camera lenses, stowing them in their appropriate compartments. "Takaba sama, I will bring you to the hospital to see Asami sama's personal physician."
"NO! I am perfectly all right!" Akihito replied stubbornly. "Just take me home, I'll be perfectly fine after a good sleep."
"You need to take some medication."
"And I just told you that I'll be fine after a good sleep. Don't treat me like a child, Toru," Akihito said angrily as he marched to the door.
Positive that Toru would start another round of 'Takaba sama –', Akihito readied himself for the counter attack. He was however, interrupted by the wind chime sound at the door.
Emi marched in, her face slightly flushed with fury.
Just great, Akihito thought bitterly. He was shivering, his muscles were aching badly and his head was splitting from the argument he had with Toru a while ago. He was not ready to start another bickering session with Emi.
Akihito paid no heed to her presence and hugged his coat tighter, intending to walk past her to the door. Emi gripped his arm, pulling him back into the room.
"Not so fast, you bastard," she nearly growled.
Being addressed as a bastard was something new to Akihito since it was usually he who used it when referring to his lover. He crossed his arms. "What do you want?"
Toru stood in front of Akihito in a heartbeat, using his taller frame to block Emi from advancing to his master.
Akihito, who was already pissed with the fact that Toru was fussing around him like a mother hen, snapped.
"I am not fragile, Toru. Move," he commanded.
Toru stepped aside immediately; years in the army training taught him never to disobey a superior's command.
"What do you want?" Akihito repeated.
"YOU!" Emi pointed her finger at Akihito, "It's all your fault! Taiga dumped me, the company ended my modeling contract and I am banned from entering almost every restaurant in Tokyo."
By now, the pain on his head worsened. Placing two fingers on his temple, Akihito gently moved them in circular motion to ease the throbbing pain.
"What the hell are you talking about?"
"Don't pretend that you don't know anything, you low life photographer! You asked that man to do it, didn't you?" Emi screeched.
"I didn't do anything," Akihito fired, raising his voice. Shit, his voice turned hoarse. His throat is dry and uncomfortable, and felt as though as he had just swallowed a box of needles.
"You liar! You took everything from me. Taiga; my job; my life!" she reached out her hands to grab Akihito.
Toru dropped the camera bag, moved in front Akihito and gripped Emi's hand tightly. "You will not hurt Takaba sama, Emi san."
"That's none of your business, fuck off."
Emi swung her other hand across Toru's face, only to be halted by Akihito's hand clamping tightly onto her arm.
"Don't touch my friend," Akihito nearly snarled before loosening his grip.
Toru released Emi, staring at Akihito in disbelief. Emi seemed to be taken aback by Akihito's behavior too as she immediately lowered her hands.
She regained her composure quickly, flipping her chestnut hair back and continued her assault, "Don't think you can get away with this, I know some powerful people and all I have to do is just say a word and you're done! I don't fucking care who that man is, he'll be done by the time I tell Kondo sama about this."
Akihito resisted the urge to tell Emi that Kondo Masahiro is merely the CEO of a rival record company and is nothing but a small fly compared to Asami. Damn it, these arguments were taking a toll on his body. He felt colder, his head hurt from the constant pounding, his eyes watery and his knees started to feel like jelly.
Emi took in Akihito's quietness and sneered, "That man, who is he anyway? He's an eye candy but I bet he's merely a rich perverted bastard who has nothing better to do than fuck – "
The former model obviously made the wrong move. Akihito took a step forward, locking his gaze at Emi. "I won't be nice if you say one more maligning word about Asami."
Akihito's voice was hoarse, but the warning was clear. Emi took staggering steps backwards, slightly shaken by the menacing tone Akihito used. But Emi wasn't going to be intimidated, nor was she going to back down easily, especially since the pathetic excuse for a photographer stole Taiga and her career from her.
Bravely, she stepped forward and with rage clouding her judgment, swung her heavy handbag at Akihito. The photographer, already weakened due his condition, fell back as the heavy bag hit the side of his head. Head spinning and visions blurred, Akihito closed his eyes, allowing the darkness to engulf him.
"Takaba sama!" Toru called urgently as he cushioned Akihito's fall. Muttering the F word, he picked up the unconscious photographer effortlessly, ignoring the panicked model.
"I – I didn't hit him that hard. He's just a weak bastard – "
"Emi san," Toru interrupted, "If you say another word, I will not hesitate to take you down, woman or not."
He pushed the door open with his shoulder, raced down the small flight of steps to the waiting car. Ando got off the car immediately.
"What happened, Toru san?" Ando asked as he helped Toru put Akihito at the backseat of the BMW.
"Later – to the hospital – now," Toru said urgently and he climbed into the back seat with Akihito. Gently placing the photographer's head on his lap, he placed his palm on Akihito's forehead, checking his temperature and muttered another curse when he gauged the temperature to be at least 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
Shit, the fever must have started this morning and had worsened after the morning bath, Toru thought as he checked Akihito's head for injuries. No bumps and cuts, he decided after pressing his hand on the photographer's scalp gently.
"Toru san, we have a problem," Ando spoke, breaking Toru's thoughts.
Toru met Ando's eyes at the rear mirror.
"The cab behind has been following us for a while now."
Toru glanced backwards carefully and noticed a green, white cab trailing behind them from a distance. Left without a choice, Toru reached for his phone, speed dialing his boss's number.
Asami answered on the second ring.
"Asami sama, we have a problem; a green cab is tailing us," Toru said without preamble.
"Mah?"
Toru glanced backwards to check again. "I cannot confirm the identity, sir. It's a distance away."
"Where are you?"
"Yaesu 1-chome, on the way to the hospital."
Asami's voice immediately hardened, "What happened to him?"
"Takaba sama is having a medium grade fever and as of the moment, unconscious," Toru replied, finding it pointless to keep the fact hidden from the yakuza.
Asami was quiet for a moment. "Bring Akihito to Sion. Ask Ando to drive to the back of the building and get him inside through the back door. I'll send the men," Asami ordered.
"Understood."
His boss spoke again, "Are you armed?"
"Yes, Asami sama. So is Ando."
"Good, shoot the bastard if he so much so takes a step out of the car, and Toru?"
That tone never failed to shake Toru's nerves. "Yes?"
"I am expecting a detailed report from you later," Asami said and the tone went dead.
"What did the boss say?" Ando asked the minute Toru ended the call; his eyes darted to the rear view mirror every few seconds to check on the cab. It is still following cautiously behind them.
"Change route. Asami sama's orders were to bring Takaba sama to Sion; drive to the back of the building and we are clear to use the gun," Toru said, glancing at the unconscious boy.
"You bet I'm going to enjoy using it on the bastard," the driver grinned, taking a sharp left turn into the next street.
"What's our ETA?" Toru asked.
"About seven minutes."
"Stop right at the back entrance; I'll carry Takaba sama into the building. The guards should be there by now, can you manage?"
Ando reached for his gun in his jacket, smiling confidently, "You bet."
As the car tires screeched to a stop, Toru half dragged, half carried Akihito into the building. Asami's men, led by Suoh poured out from the building, guns out and ready.
Toru didn't have time to think if Ando could make it. With his master as his top priority, he carried Akihito, raced through the corridors to Asami's private elevator. On cue, the door of the elevator opened and the crime lord strode out of the car with Kirishima following silently behind.
"Asami sama," Toru greeted.
"My office, now," Asami stepped back into the elevator, taking Akihito from Toru's arms.
Toru stepped inside, moving to the back with Kirishima before glancing at his boss nervously. He then darted his gaze to Kirishima who shook his head a little, signaling that the yakuza was not in his best moods.
Shit.
As the elevator doors slid open, Kirishima went ahead, pushing Asami's office door wide-open for the crime lord to enter. Toru followed behind, closing the office doors. His eyes widened when Kirishima went to the bookcase behind Asami's desk, pulling out a book in the process to press a few buttons.
Toru watched in awe as Kirishima slide the giant bookcase effortlessly, opening to a small room, equipped with a queen size bed and a table.
Asami laid Akihito on the bed gently. Placing his palms on Akihito's forehead, he nearly winced at the heat. He removed Akihito's shoes, coat and sweater, freeing him from the layers of clothing and pulled the covers to his chest.
"Where's Kanzaki?" The crime lord directed the question at Kirishima as he took the wet cloth from Kirishima's outstretched hands, placing it on Akihito's forehead.
"One of the guards is bringing the sensei up right now," the secretary answered.
Nodding absently at Kirishima's reply, Asami continued to gaze at his young lover's sleeping form. He checked the boy's pulse – still beating regularly. Akihito's face looked flush as though he was blushing and it reminded Asami of the boy writhing beneath him last night, begging to be ravished.
A knock on the door interrupted his thought. His personal physician, a man in his early fifties stood at the door, bowing slightly at Asami. The yakuza nodded in response and stood up, allowing Kanzaki to attend to Akihito.
He strode out of the room and went near the glass window. Pulling out his cigarette pack from his pockets, he retrieved a single stick, placing it between his lips.
Toru immediately moved to Asami's side to light the cigarette. He stood perfectly still next to the boss as he watched his boss took the first drag, unsure if he should move behind or remain at his spot.
"Toru," his boss used the same neutral tone that shook his nerves. "There's a red mark near Akihito's right cheekbone."
Immediately Toru stood straight before relaying the incident in detail. By the time he was done, his boss looked composed but Toru knew that beneath that calm demeanor, there was a raging fire. Too nervous to look at his boss, the guard angled his head to see the tall apartment across the street and waited.
Toru heard Kirishima's phone rang and not a minute later, the secretary walked out of the room. "Asami sama, we have the identity of the person in the cab. The model, Emi had the taxi driver follow Takaba sama's car."
Kirishima continued, "According to Suoh, Emi claimed that she was concerned about Takaba sama but Suoh was positive she was lying and suspected that she has malicious intent towards Takaba sama."
Asami didn't bother to hide his displeasure. He turned to Kirishima, his golden orbs narrowed and ordered, "Tell Suoh to get rid of Emi. We've tolerated her long enough."
Toru wasn't surprise at the orders. Suoh did remind him that their boss is extreme whenever it concerned Akihito and he knew their boss couldn't be bothered even if Emi is a woman. The consequence of invading his territory can only be death.
"Method, Asami sama?" Kirishima had his phone out, ready to call Suoh anytime.
"Stage her death. Make it look like a mugging," Asami ordered and Kirishima immediately pressed the phone to his ear, murmuring instructions to Suoh.
The doctor came out of the room a few minutes later, bowing deeply. "Asami sama, Takaba sama have a bad tonsillitis and a medium grade fever. I have given him a jab of antibiotics. He will need more medication when he wakes up."
"When will he be conscious?" Asami asked.
"Most likely in a few hours," the doctor replied. "His vitals are normal but his body is exhausted; sleeping is the only way to help him recover faster. I will prescribe some medication and care instructions for Takaba sama."
Asami nodded. He dismissed Kirishima and Toru, instructing them to deal with Akihito's medication and Emi. He then went to the bed and sat on the edge, watching Akihito's sleeping form.
The yakuza traced his fingers along Akihito's cheeks, moving down to the jaw line before cupping his chin. Asami had never seen Akihito looked so vulnerable. He missed his fiery temper, his challenging eyes, his sarcastic retorts and cheeky replies.
He brushed his finger on Akihito's lips, remembering its warmth as Akihito took him in his mouth the night before, teasing, pleasuring him as he seductively gaze his hazel eyes at him. The thought itself made him harden. Feeling somehow ungentlemanly for having perverted thoughts about his lover when he is sick, he rose from the bed to his office, sliding the door shut with him.
Asami sat on his desk, tapped a few buttons on his lap top to activate the cameras in the room. He decided that he would take his mind off Akihito at the moment and focused his attention to the escaped prisoner from China. It frustrates Asami that Mori couldn't confirm if Mah had entered Japan since he received the news of his escape nearly a week late.
Asami had to admit that Mah is at least smart; not as good as Fei Long but definitely not stupid. He had to be careful or he would end up dancing to Mah's tune. And then there's Akihito. It was perhaps the biggest challenge of all, keeping his young lover safe from his enemies' clutches.
Deciding that it was pointless to guess where Mah was hiding, he went over the reports Kirishima left on his desk. He heard the door to his office opened slowly and didn't bother looking up, expecting Kirishima. Surprised that Kirishima did not knock or greet him upon entering, he looked up – and found himself staring at a gun pointed directly at him.
"Surprise!" Mah Wing Shing greeted, his lips parted broadly, exposing a hole in his upper canine where the golden tooth once stood.
Akihito stirred slowly, opening his eyes to unfamiliar surroundings. Head lighter and clearer, he sat up slowly, resting his back on the bed frame as he looked around. He was in a room of some sort, tastefully furnished, equipped with a bathroom and a working desk. The room was bare except for the few pieces of furniture and an expensive looking painting that hung on the wall.
Damn it, Akihito cursed when he noticed his muscles and joints still ached.
He thought of Emi and briefly wondered what happened to her after her attack. And where is Toru? Akihito scanned around as he slipped on his sweater.
Gingerly, he stepped on the floor, paying extra attention to his knees since they hurt a lot more than he could imagine. He padded to the lap top on the desk and shook the mouse. The machine hummed to life from its sleep mode, showing Akihito a clear CCTV footage of Asami's office.
There was also a note on the desk, addressed to him. Picking it up, he recognized Asami's bold handwriting on the piece of paper.
Akihito, the room is connected to my office. If you're awake, join me.
Smug bastard, Akihito grinned a little. I should have known better. Where else could he be without his guards than in Asami's office. He was about to walk to the sliding door when he saw something on the screen that nearly made his heart stop.
There was someone else in Asami's office and he was pointing his gun at his lover.
"How did you get in?" Asami asked even though he could already guess since Mah was wearing the janitor's clothes.
Still pointing the gun at Asami, Mah laughed, "Never thought I'd come here, eh?" The former boss of Tung Shing took a few steps nearer.
Asami knew he had to buy some time. His gun was locked in his drawer and there wasn't enough time to retrieve it. With Akihito inside the room defenseless, he had to distract him; at least until he could find the opportune moment to knock Mah down.
"You should really find a janitor of your own size, Mah. That size hardly fits you," Asami smirked.
Instead of getting mad, Mah continued smiling. "I am not going to fall into your trap again, Asami. Patience—, " Mah drawled as he circled around the room, forcing Asami to do the same. They both stopped when Mah had his back of the bookcase and Asami had his near the glass windows, " – is the key when killing a bastard like you."
Asami did not waver despite having a gun pointed at him. If he showed signs that he was fazed by it, the Chinese would have an upper edge against him. "What about your son, Mah? Did you enjoy watching his execution?"
At the mention of his son, Mah flew in rage. "You son of a bitch, you dare to mention about my son?" the hand that held the gun shook a little. "There were six shots in his body, SIX!" Mah roared angrily.
The Chinese steadied his hands, gripping the gun tightly. "I'll enjoy putting holes in your body. You'll pay Asami," he smiled and fired.
A few minutes earlier
Akihito kept his eyes glued on the screen. He recognized the man as the same person Ishida caught in his viewfinder. He thought the man was dead since Asami had his gun near Chinese's face when he saw the photo on Ishida's camera.
Now it's not the time to be thinking unnecessary things, Akihito! He scolded himself. God, what should he do? He couldn't just barge out with his bare hands; that would have gotten all of them killed.
My phone! Akihito cursed his stupidity and reached for his bag. His hopes were short lived when he realized his bag was not with him. He nearly gave up until he remembered something important.
If this is Asami's hidden room, he should have kept a gun somewhere. With that thought, the photographer kept his hopes alive. He pulled the desk drawers open, surprised to find that they were empty. He went to the bed, patted the pillows and slid his hand underneath the mattress, hoping to feel for a bulge but there wasn't any. Almost giving up, Akihito yanked the drawer of the bedside table open and there it was – a semi-automatic pistol laying neatly in it.
Holding a gun and using it is another story. The weight of the gun felt heavy in his hands as if he was holding a heavy rock. He didn't have a clue how to hold it properly, let alone fire it since his experience is limited to a single use when he lost it after seeing Yuri shot Kirishima on Fei Long's ship.
But can I do it?
As Akihito dwelled with his insecurities and fear, the first shot from outside went off and ignoring his racing heartbeat, he raced to the door.
Asami considered himself lucky to have anticipated that shot. He managed to dodge the bullet aimed at his chest but he was no match to the speed of a bullet. It went straight into his left arm and nestled securely between his muscles. He felt his arm burnt as blood began to ooze out from the wound.
The yakuza showed no emotion; he didn't groan from the pain although his right hand went automatically to the wound on his left, applying pressure on it to stop the bleeding.
Mah threw his head back, laughing almost insanely.
"What's the matter? That one bullet shouldn't be a problem for the great Asami Ryuichi –"Mah chided before raising his hand towards Asami again, " – That's the first bullet. Five more to go."
"Drop your gun before I blow your brains out" a voice behind Mah growled.
The Chinese's eyes widened a little, surprised by the presence of another man in the room. His eyes flickered sideways, trying to catch a glimpse of the person behind him.
"Where did your guard come from?" Mah growled at a smirking Asami. Slowly, he crouched down in pretense of putting his gun on the ground but feinted immediately, giving an elbow jab behind.
As Akihito fell onto the ground groaning, Asami ran to Mah, and punched him in the stomach. He doubled over, dropping the gun in the process. Ignoring the pain on his arm, Asami grabbed Mah head and elbowed his neck to the ground.
"Akihito, get the gun," Asami ordered his lover.
The photographer nodded. Hands still clutching his stomach, he secured his own gun, kicking Mah's away in the process. Akihito passed the gun to Asami's hands, which the yakuza immediately pointed it at Mah's head.
"Let me teach you the consequences of cheating me all over again," Asami snarled.
Akihito turned his back; he didn't think he could stomach seeing a man being killed in front of him. Closing his eyes, he waited for the moment to come.
The sound of the door crashing open had his eyes widened again. An unidentified man barged into the room, whipped out his gun and pointed it towards Asami's direction.
Akihito didn't think; his body reacted on its own. He moved in front of Asami, arms and legs eagle spread. "No!" he shouted.
"Takaba sama!" Toru called the minute he came into the room. He went to Akihito, dragging him to the side.
"Asami sama!" Kirishima and Suoh shouted simultaneously, pulling out their own guns.
Asami released Mah and walked towards his men. He pulled Akihito into his embrace with his good arm, inhaling the sweet scent of his apricot shampoo. "You're – you're hurt," said an almost teary Akihito.
"Your boy toy Asami?" Mah laughed as he stood up. He then diverted his attention to the man in suit and smiled, "Hello, Inspector Mori."
Akihito pushed Asami away to look at the dark haired man. He looked mid-thirties, medium built with a square-ish sort of face. Inspector? What's an Inspector doing here? It was all Akihito could think before his knees gave way, slumping on Asami's chest.
"Toru, bring Akihito out," Asami ordered, ignoring Mah's remarks.
Akihito swayed a little as he held onto Toru's arms. Adrenaline gone, his body started to ache again, weakening him. He didn't realize that he was shivering and when a vicious cramp hit his left thigh, he moaned, folding double with agony as he attempted to massage his thigh. The photographer didn't protest when Toru and Ando assisted him out of the room.
"Too bad, Asami. This is the second time you failed to kill me," Mah smiled, raising his hands to surrender. "Looks like Inspector Mori came right on time."
The smile on Mah's face was wiped off when Asami returned his smile by smirking. He raised his gun, pointing it at the Chinese.
"You – you'll go to jail if you pull the trigger," Mah stuttered.
"That's right," Mori stepped forward, placing a hand on Asami's good arm.
A smile graced Mah's lips before it was wiped off again when he saw Mori passed his police issued gun to Asami.
"Asami sama, use mine. It's easier to tell the Chinese officials that he had been killed while exchanging gunshots with the police."
"You – you…" Mah stuttered, looking at Mori, then Asami and back at Mori again.
Asami took the gun from Mori's hands, pointed it at the former triad leader. "Looks like your luck ran out, Mah. Mori is one of my men, sent to the police department as my spy."
Truly lost, Mah took one last swipe at Asami. "That boy toy of yours will be your downfall, Asami. You won't be the emperor of Japan for long."
The yakuza curved a smile. "Then, it's fortunate that no one knows about Akihito aside from you," he said easily and fired the first shot, hitting the stocky man on his arms.
Mah fell on his knees, cradling his injured hand. "You bastard," he said in Mandarin.
"That's for the bullet in my arm," Asami replied. "It's a pity that I didn't get to see your execution but I guess emptying this round of bullets on your body isn't so bad either," the yakuza sneered and fired another round, hitting the man's stomach.
"You –" Mah gurgled.
Aiming at his heart, Asami smiled. "You must be anxious to see your son at the gates of hell. Send my regards to him," Asami curved a smile and emptied the remaining bullets into Mah.
As Mah lay on the ground, choked in his own blood and life draining away, Asami murmured, "Zài jiàn"
By the time the bullet in Asami's arm had been removed and bandaged, more than four hours had passed before he could finally walk into the penthouse he and Akihito shared.
Asami learnt that Kirishima had been making arrangements with Mori and Suoh to arrange extra protection for him. Mori had been called by Kirishima after the green cab incident and upon meeting at the lobby; they heard an employee's frantic screams finding a dead janitor in the store room, with a single bullet to his forehead.
The secretary apologized profusely for his blunder, repeating that he was willing to take any form of punishment. Asami, already tired, dismissed his secretary and guard, telling them to report to his penthouse tomorrow. Not that he was going to punish Kirishima and Suoh, he just didn't want them to commit suicide as a form of apology. With enemies and traitor gaining on him, Asami needed men he could trust and the duo are his best.
Toru got up immediately and bowed.
"How is he?" Asami asked, loosening his tie.
"He has been given his dose of medication and is now asleep. Asami sama, your wounds – "
"It's nothing," Asami interrupted.
Toru bowed and excused himself from the penthouse.
He found Akihito on his bed, curled in fetal position and made himself a nest using the duvet covers. His face flushed, his lover shivered a little as he continued sleeping. Remembering what Akihito had done for him made him immensely proud of the boy. He already knew the photographer's loyalty was unquestionable and his actions earlier had proven it. Akihito had moved in front of him, shielding him from Mori's gun – that thought alone had his lips curved into a rare smile.
Mah might not be able to see it since Akihito was literally standing at the back of him; the boy's hands were trembling as he pointed the semi-automatic gun on the back of Mah's head. And Asami saw something else – Akihito's eyes showed fear yet the desire to protect him was strong.
Asami managed to discard his ruined shirt and headed for the shower, taking care not to wet his bandaged arm. He towel dry himself before slipping into the warm bed and using his good arm, he pulled a half-naked Akihito to him.
Akihito jolted up from the bed. "Asami, you're back!"
"How are you feeling?" the yakuza asked, tugging Akihito back into his arms. "You're still warm. What time did you take your medication?"
The shock of Asami's heat was so intense that Akihito thought that he might faint. He felt heat seeped through his skin, penetrating his muscles and it felt so incredibly good.
"Not too long ago," Akihito admitted, feeling a little guilty.
"Did Toru have to force you to take the medicine?"
"A little, that's because he took my phone and wouldn't let me call you – " Realization hit the photographer and he pushed himself away from his lover, ignoring the warmth that was slowly leaving his body.
"—your arm! You got hit!" Akihito scrambled to the side to switch on the bed lamps.
As dim light flooded the master bedroom, Akihito moved to the yakuza's left to inspect the bandages. Akihito swallowed a lump when he saw the blood seeping out through the white bandage. Tracing his fingers softly along the bandage, he choked a little, trying to control his tears.
"Idiot, why are you crying?" Asami brushed the tear away.
Akihito brushed the remaining tears with the back of his hand. "I—I'm not!"
Asami sat up to rest his back against the bed frame. "Were you afraid?"
Akihito shivered; unsure if it was due to the cold. He pulled the duvet to cover his naked chest, wrapping it around him. "I – I don't know. When I held the gun in my hand, I was trembling. Then I heard the shot. I didn't think, I –" Akihito halted, burying his face into the cover to stop the chills.
The yakuza pulled Akihito to him. "Climb on top me, you'll feel warmer."
Any other day, Akihito wouldn't have complied with Asami's request. But right now, he was just so cold and Asami's body felt like heaven. Obediently, the photographer climbed on top of his older lover, rested his cheek on Asami's chest, taking care not to touch his injured arm.
The yakuza pulled the duvet to Akihito's neck before slipping his hands into the covers. He held Akihito tightly against him, providing the heat that the photographer craved.
"Still cold?"
Akihito shook his head, thankful that Asami couldn't see him blushing. He listened to Asami's steady heartbeat as he enjoyed the heat seeping through his skin.
"What happened to Mah?" Akihito whispered although he already knew the answer.
"Dead," the older man answered simply.
Akihito bit his lips. There were so many questions he wanted to ask the yakuza yet he couldn't form any at the moment. At last, he decided he'd rather be kept in the dark about Asami's business. It had worked well so far; no point messing up their perfect balance. There was just one thing however –
"Asami?"
The yakuza responded by patting his hair. Akihito took it as a green light for him to continue.
"Don't you dare die on me. If you do, I'll go to hell and drag you back," Akihito declared.
Asami curved another rare smile. That was, in his opinion, the closest thing Akihito had ever done in confessing. He gripped Akihito's arm, pulled him up and gave him a searing kiss.
"That's a promise then, Takaba Akihito."
Thank you for reading!
Translations:
Zài jiàn - Goodbye in Mandarin.
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