A/N: I promised myself that I'd write a short chapter but I couldn't stop! By the time I finished writing this, I realized that I have written nearly 9,400 words! I was like, "Kadzuki, you wrote 9000 + words for a chapter like this?" Sorry, ignore me. I'm just a little crazy right now. Sorry for the late update and I hope you'll enjoy this chapter!
Special thanks to RiveReinStyx for fixing my weird sentences. You are the greatest beta, ever!
To Beloved Enemy, thank you so much for translating the fiction. You are awesome!
This chapter is for psyNEKOpath who wanted to read Fei Long interacting with Asami, yuichichan17 who wanted to read about an insecure Akihito (thanks for reminding me about the Valentine's Day too!) and KittyCiel656 who wanted to read about Akihito worrying about Asami (coughs) - I shall not elaborate further or I'll give away the entire story! !
Warnings : Lemons
Disclaimer: Viewfinder and its notable characters belong to Yamane Ayano sensei. I'm just borrowing them for my fictions.
Flashback
"Don't be mistaken, Akihito. Once you're well enough, you won't be getting any sleep. Rest up while you can."
"That's a promise, Asami Ryuichi."
It had been nearly four weeks since Akihito's bold challenge to Asami. His older lover kept to his word; not once did he touch Akihito inappropriately and the photographer was getting sexually frustrated with every passing day. If he thought two weeks without sex was bad, abstaining sex for a whole month was driving him nuts. He tried making subtle advances at Asami but the yakuza brushed him off each time.
To make matters worse, Asami was spending less time at the penthouse. He'd leave shortly after Akihito woke up, only to return past Akihito's bedtime. The trend was worrying; considering Asami's sexual libido.
How did he relieve himself? Masturbating? Akihito wondered as he watched the yakuza getting dressed in front of the closet. With a pillow propped behind his back comfortably against the head rest, Akihito continued to stare openly at Asami's beautifully sculptured back.
Pushing an image of a naked Asami in bed, Akihito cleared his throat. "I'm going out today."
His lover didn't even turn to look at him. "No," came the curt reply.
"But I have been staying here for almost a month! I have to work or my skills will get rusty," the photographer protested.
Asami finished buttoning his white shirt and moved to sit on the bed, next to Akihito. "If that was all it took for your photography skills to get rusty, I guess you're not very good at what you do," the yakuza smirked.
Akihito's cheeks turned slightly red. "Bastard, I can't stay cooped up in here for the whole six weeks! Kou and Takato are worried about me! I planned to see them as soon as I drop by Takeda's desk."
"I hate to repeat myself, Akihito. You will have to stay here for another week before you can take a step out of the penthouse."
Akihito pushed away the duvet covers. "I have a job to do! You can't be caging me in here forever!" he said angrily, slapping a hand on his naked chest.
The yakuza pulled the covers to Akihito's chest again. "I've never locked you in the penthouse before but until you are certified fit by Kanzaki, you'll stay. Besides, Toru informed me that as of the moment you have no pending assignments."
There was a small smirk when Asami mentioned about his assignments. Bastard, Akihito thought. He knew that Asami had either intercepted calls from Takeda to his cell phone or had ordered Toru to inform Takeda that he wouldn't be able to work for six weeks.
"You can't make me stay," Akihito said stubbornly, looking away. "Just you watch, I'm going out the minute you step out of the house," he finished rather childishly.
Asami reached out, caught Akihito's chin in his hands. "You're staying here until the end of the week."
"That's five days away! I'm not –"
"You know very well that I can make you," Asami leaned forward, kissing the photographer. "And I don't need to tell you what I'll do to make you do exactly so, do you?"
Sliding his hand behind the photographer's neck, he kept Akihito firmly in place and nibbled at the hollow just below his ear. "But if I do that, you'd be humiliated. I know that you hate that, Akihito. It'd be easier if you stop being stubborn and stay a couple more days."
Akihito was feeling strange sensations on his neck. The damn nerve must be connected to his lower half because he felt his cock hardened. The yakuza might be threatening him yet the deep husky voice Asami used as he nuzzled the hollow below his ear was enough to arouse him.
"Well?"
The photographer averted his eyes, ashamed that he was getting turned on by a threat. That's fucking great, now I'm a big masochist too.
He looked up at the golden orbs again."Fine, but I have a condition."
The hand on Akihito's neck moved to the front before sliding up to his face. "And that condition is?"
Akihito slapped his lover's hand away. "I want to meet Kou and Takato, here."
"When a wife demands something from her husband, she's usually sexier."
"I'm – not – your – wife," the photographer enunciated every word, glaring at the yakuza. "And I'm forwarding the address to them regardless of what you say."
Asami stood up, picked up a black tie from the numerous ties he owned. "Shall I send Ando to chauffer them here?"
Unable to take his eyes away from Asami's lean fingers, he was lost for a moment. "Huh, you're actually okay with Kou and Takato coming here?"
Setting the tie in place, Asami picked up his coat from the edge of the bed. "I have no reasons to object, especially when you begged so nicely."
"You conceited bastard! Since when – "
"Be good, Akihito," Asami interrupted, ruffled his hair before turning to leave the bedroom, ignoring the photographer's curse.
Kirishima and Toru were already waiting when Asami opened the front door of his penthouse.
"Asami sama," they greeted simultaneously.
"Kirishima, is everything in order?" the crime lord asked coolly, passing his briefcase and trench coat to him.
"Yes, the talk with Fei Long will proceed at 6 pm today at Club Sion. For precautionary sake, I have stationed extra men around the club."
Asami nodded, pulling out a cigarette. "Keep the news away from Akihito, Toru. Until Fei Long returns to Hong Kong, Akihito will stay in the penthouse."
"Yes, Asami sama."
Asami knew that Fei Long is smart and cunning. Although his informant assured him that the leader of Baishe was no longer interested in seeking revenge; he wasn't willing to take the chances with Akihito; especially when the Chinese blatantly showed an interest in keeping the photographer for himself.
Asami took a drag of his cigarette, slowly exhaling. "His friends will drop by later. I'll leave you with them."
As Toru bowed, Asami continued, "Are you carrying your gun?
When Toru nodded his head, Asami gave him permission to enter the penthouse. Turning to Kirishima, he said grimly, "Let's go meet Fei Long."
Xx Business as Usual xX
The minute Asami left, Akihito reached for his phone. He called Kou first, knowing that he was an earlier riser compared to Takato.
"AKIHITO!" Kou nearly shouted on the phone.
"Er – good morning Kou!"
"Don't you good morning me!" his friend shouted, "Where the hell have you been for the past three weeks? Takato and I tried calling you but you didn't answer. Do you know how worried we were?"
Akihito pushed the duvet covers away and grabbed a shirt. "Sorry guys. I er—got into an accident."
The angry voice immediately softened. "Hey, you all right buddy? What happened?"
"L – long story," Akihito quickly continued, "Are you free today?"
It took Kou a full three seconds to reply. "Did you have a fight with Asami san or something?"
Finally managed to put on his shirt, he walked to the couch in the sitting area and sat down. "What are you talking about, Kou? Why would I have a fight with him?"
Kou laughed. "You are too dense, Akihito. Did you forget that today is Valentine's Day? Aren't you supposed to be celebrating the day with Asami san?"
Shit. Normally Akihito would have noticed these special days; not that he celebrates any of them but during these festivities, the shops usually go overboard with the decorations. Bright colors filled every nook and corner of the street, making it impossible to miss. Since Akihito had been cooped up in the apartment, shut off from the world for nearly a month with only Toru and Asami to keep him company, he didn't realized.
"Of course not! I'm not a woman, Kou," Akihito blurted out.
"Woman or not, it wouldn't hurt to get him some chocolates," Kou teased, "Besides, isn't it a lover's job to do something like that?"
Akihito tried imagining Asami biting the chocolate, the way his tongue swirl around the chocolate, sucking on it – just by the thought of it made him hard. Damn, now I'm a major pervert too.
Ordering himself to stop with his sexual fantasies, he quickly changed the topic, "So, are you or are you not free today?"
"Of course I'm free. Takato is, too. Unlike you, we don't have a lover who –"
"Great!" Akihito interrupted. "I can't really meet you guys outside, can you come over instead?"
"Come over, as in to your apartment?"
Akihito stood up carefully, taking care not to put unnecessary strains on his healing ribs. "Yeah, can you?"
"S – sure." Kou sounded uncertain. "You sure? I mean we wouldn't want to intrude on your time with Asami san."
Akihito moved to the living room. Toru, who was in his usual seat, stood up and bowed at him. "Kou, you're unlike yourself," Akihito laughed and waved his hand at Toru as a greeting. "If it eases your worry, Asami's not in."
Kou chuckled. "And here I am trying to be considerate, thinking that you'd want to spend some lovey dovey moments with your Asami san."
Color flooded Akihito's cheeks. "I'm not spending it with him!"
"Chill, Aki-chan, I was only teasing," Kou almost purred.
Akihito accepted a glass of water from Toru. "Last chance, do you want to come?"
"Of course! We wanted to check your place out for ages!" Kou said enthusiastically. "I'll call Takato and we'll bring beer!"
Akihito took a sip and placed it on the table. "Great! I'll forward the address to you later, and Kou – ? " Akihito stood up from his seat, moved into the bedroom. He didn't want Toru to hear what he was about to ask.
"Yeah?"
"Can you help me to buy a box of wine-filled chocolates? I'll pay you later," he whispered.
He could almost picture the silly grin on Kou's face when he answered. "You can count of us to do that. We'll even have it gift wrapped for you."
"There's no need to go overboard. Just the usual –," Akihito trailed off when he heard the familiar monotonous tone of the telephone, indicating Kou had ended the call. "—will do," he muttered, staring at his own phone.
He texted Kou the address and reminded him not to go overboard with the chocolates although he doubt his friend would listen. Well, it was worth a try, Akihito thought as he went into the bathroom for a quick shower.
He took his time with the shower, careful not to over-scrub his torso, in case he'd hurt himself. When he was done, he toweled dry and stood in front of the mirror. The lights at the closet allowed him to take a closer look to his fractured ribs. The swells on his face were mostly healed but his ribs were another story. Whilst he felt better, he wasn't in his top form. Gently, he poked a finger on it, testing if it hurt – and winced a little when he felt the dull pain.
As Akihito pulled out his favorite singlet and shorts, his eyes caught the sight of Asami's white shirt draped on the sitting area, the same one he wore to work yesterday.
The photographer's face flushed, remembering how Asami had unbuttoned his shirt with his back facing him. Akihito had feigned sleep then so he cracked an eye open to steal glances at the yakuza. He couldn't see Asami's fingers but then again, he didn't have to see his lover's long, lean fingers to know how he undressed. He already had those fingers and movements memorized.
Still naked, he walked towards the couch, picking the carelessly discarded shirt and brought it to his face. It smelled of Asami's Dunhill cigarettes, mixed with a whiff of his 10,000¥ cologne.
Ridiculous price for a bottle of cologne – was the last thing the photographer thought before he found his cock hardened again. Shit, he's getting a little sensitive.
Slowly, Akihito sat on the couch. Legs spread slightly; he traced his fingers to his stomach before moving lower to his cock. He brought Asami's shirt to his face, inhaling its scent as he stroked his cock slowly. His own hands weren't as satisfying and they're a poor comparison compared to his lover's experienced hands but he supposed that will have to do for the time being since he was desperate.
The faint knock on his door had his hands retreated almost immediately. "Takaba sama? The concierge just called to inform that they have cleared Takato san and Kou san to enter."
"Takaba sama, are you all right?" Toru asked again.
Jolting back to his senses, Akihito flung the garment on the floor, mortified with his own actions. "Yeah, I—I'm changing my clothes!" he replied as he dressed hastily, donning a white singlet paired with a sweater and shorts.
The doorbell rang just in time Akihito came out of the bedroom. Combing his damp hair with his fingers, he brushed the locks that fell on his face aside, pushing it to the back.
"I'll open it," he mumbled at Toru who bowed at his request.
"Akihito! Are you all right?" Takato gripped Akihito's shoulders the minute he opened the door.
"What happened to you?" Kou asked, draping an arm around Akihito, eyeing him curiously.
"There's no need to be worried, I merely fractured my left ribs –"
"You fractured your ribs?" Kou and Takato exclaimed. "How?" Both asked simultaneously.
"A baseball player accidentally hit me with the ball," Akihito lied smoothly. He hated lying to his best friends. He supposed there was no helping to it, knowing that the truth would cause unnecessary panic.
Kou released Akihito, shaking his head. "You're like a magnet to unfortunate events. Just two months ago, you told us that you received ten stitches on your forehead for falling down the stairs."
Right, Akihito had forgotten that he used that excuse when he got hurt at Sion after he was beaten up by two employees who tried to steal from Asami's company.
"I think you better go to the shrine with us, Akihito. Get yourself a protective charm or something," Takato suggested.
Akihito made a face. "Takato, you seriously believe that those charms work?"
Kou and Takato removed their shoes at the genkan and followed Akihito inside to the living room.
"Who knows? You seemed to be getting hurt all the time even though you have Toru san to pro –" Takato trailed off.
Wondering what made his friends stopped; the photographer turned around and found his friends' gawking at the living room with their mouths wide open.
Akihito understood his friends' reactions; he shared the same thoughts when he first entered the apartment. He remembered how his eyes nearly popped out from the size of the apartment. Add in the expensive marble flooring, imported furniture and dim lightings to provide a relaxing ambiance, the penthouse was a dream to Akihito.
"Kou, Takato!" Akihito waved his hand at them, trying to get their attention.
"Akihito, this is where you live?" Kou asked when he could finally answer.
The photographer blushed, walking to the sitting area. "It's just an apartment – "
"This is NOT just an apartment," Kou differed, still dumbfounded.
Akihito led his friends to the sitting area. Kou and Takato lowered their bodies on the imported couch gently, as if they were sitting on glass.
"Ah, here are your chocolates," Takato said innocently, passing a paper bag to Akihito.
"Takato!" Akihito scolded, his eyes quickly darted at Toru whose expression didn't even flicker.
"What?"
Kou laughed. "You're supposed to be discreet, Takato! That's Asami san's chocolates."
"Kou!" Akihito hissed.
The dark haired boy raised his hand. "Oops, sorry, Akihito! Oh, and you don't have to pay us back."
The photographer raised his eyebrow in surprised. "Why not?"
"Because we went to Marukoshi and the manager, Suzuki san recognized us and told us that we didn't have to pay."
Slapping a hand on his forehead, Akihito groaned. "Why did you have to buy at Marukoshi?"
"We tried looking for wine-filled chocolates everywhere but couldn't!"
"I should have known. Did you tell him for whom you were buying it for?"
Kou scratched his face, looking guilty. "Well, we sort of told him because he was helping us write the Valentines' Day card."
"It wasn't our fault!" Takato protested when Akihito narrowed his eyes into slits. "Suzuki san was surprised when we told him it was for Asami san so we had to tell him that you sent us to buy the chocolates."
Now everyone knows that he got chocolates for Asami, Akihito sulked.
"Sorry, Akihito," Kou and Takato clapped their hands together.
The sight of his friends doing that had Akihito laughing. "It's fine, thanks for helping guys."
Takato cheered up. "Hey, so what are we supposed to do here?"
"Video games?" Kou suggested.
Akihito snorted. "Come on guys, we're not kids anymore. Adults have their own entertainment," he smiled, spreading both hands on the coffee table, rubbing it circular motion.
Kou and Takato's grinned. "Mahjong!"
"That's right!" Akihito snapped his fingers, smiling.
"But we're a player short," Kou sighed. "We can't play with only three of us."
Takato shifted nearer to Akihito. "What about Toru san, can he play?"
Akihito glanced at Toru who returned his master's gaze. He walked to the trio and knelt down. "I know how to play mahjong, Takaba sama. Would you like me to get it from your workroom?"
"Yes!" Akihito said happily before sitting on the carpet. Kou took his seat next to Akihito while Takato sat next to Kou.
When Toru returned with the box of mahjong tiles, he spread the mahjong papers on the table before pouring the tiles onto it. Then, he took his seat next to Akihito.
"What's the penalty?" Akihito asked.
"We're broke, so let's not gamble," Kou said.
The photographer couldn't agree more. He looked at the grocery bag Kou had brought along. "What about the person who scored the lowest point in every round drinks a glass of beer?"
Everyone smile spread, except Toru's.
Xx Business as Usual xX
The door to Asami's private office in Club Sion knocked just before six in the evening. Asami passed the documents he was reading to Kirishima and leaned back against the couch. Suoh and Kirishima automatically took their position behind Asami, both hands behind their backs before nodding at Kanda to open the door.
Kanda opened the door carefully and the leader of Baishe strode in confidently in his formal business suit, accompanied by Yoh and a Chinese guard.
"Asami," drawled Feilong as he removed his sun glasses.
"Fei Long," Asami greeted.
The Chinese sat on the visitor chair uninvited, crossing his legs. "It's been a while."
Yoh stood behind Fei Long, bowing slightly at Asami. The other Chinese man simply glared at the yakuza.
Asami took a cigar from his coat and allowed Kirishima to light it, "It is. What business do you have here in Japan?"
The Chinese laughed, flipping his tied hair behind him before resting his hands on the arm rests. "Don't be so tensed. I came to offer you a business opportunity."
The yakuza raised an eyebrow. "Is that why you came purposely to Japan, to discuss business?"
"How is Akihito by the way?" Fei Long interrupted smoothly. "I haven't seen him since our memorable day at the onsen."
Fei Long was taunting him, gauging his reaction about Akihito. Allowing Akihito to service Fei Long was one of the biggest mistakes he had ever committed and he vowed that he would never allow the Chinese to touch his property again.
"He's alive, if that is what you want to know," Asami smirked.
Fei Long smiled. "Of course he is; he's your precious pet after all. I don't think you'll get rid of him so easily."
Asami took a drag of his cigar. "Are you here to discuss about Takaba?" he asked, careful not to use Akihito's given name as he didn't want Fei Long to know that they were on first name basis.
"Part of it," Fei Long crossed his legs, smiled. "I thought since I'm here to discuss business, I might as well enjoy his services again. Has he improved by the way?"
Refused to be led around by the Chinese, Asami decided that he'll play the game. Slowly, he took a drag of his cigar, savored the flavor in his mouth before blowing it out gently.
"Definitely, since I've been retraining him personally to my liking, his skills are now top notched," Asami smirked, "But I'm afraid we won't be repeating our onsen activity, Fei Long. I've been generous enough to let you sample him but don't forget, he's my property."
Fei Long let out a laugh. "So possessive, and here I thought I could see Akihito again since I am, in a way, captivated by those hazel eyes of his."
Asami felt his temper raised a notch but he hid his displeasure. Exposing his vulnerability is dangerous, especially with a man as intelligent as Fei Long. He replied, as calmly as possible. "Quit the small talks, Fei Long. You're wasting my time."
The Chinese leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "All right. Mah Wing Shing is dead, Tung Shing is annihilated and his drug empire in China had fallen. The police launched an all-out war against drugs, causing the entire drug operations to be on a standstill."
"And this concerns me because –"
Fei Long's lips curved a smile. "I heard what you did to Mah, Asami. Thanks to you, drug operations in mainland China were forced to shut down, therefore channeling most of the operations to Hong Kong instead."
Asami returned Fei Long's smirk. "That doesn't explain why you're here, Fei Long."
"I'm here to offer you a business proposition. You need a new supplier and I'm here to offer you exactly that."
The yakuza placed his cigar on the ashtray. Crossing his fingers, he replied, "I'm in no hurry to find a new supplier, Fei Long. I'm sure you've done your homework, I have a supplier now."
Fei Long leaned backwards. "One who's not very good at what he does," the Chinese interrupted. "Lu Qian is an extremely cunning man, just like Mah. I'm sure you've done your homework about him too," Fei Long threw back the words at Asami.
Asami curved a smile. "You're desperate, Fei Long. I wonder why."
That hit the mark, Asami thought as he watched the leader of Baishe twitched a little. If it were merely a business proposition, Fei Long could have contacted him through other means. To have him personally fly to Japan, Asami could only draw up two possibilities. He is either here because he needed this business arrangement badly or he wanted Akihito.
And the yakuza originally thought it was the latter. However, when Asami managed to hit Fei Long's weak spot, he finally realized that the leader of the Chinese triad wasn't here for the photographer but to secure a deal. Whatever reason it may be, Asami was about to find out why.
"You don't have to know about that, Asami." Fei Long began to lose his cool a little.
"I heard Lu Qian is slowly gaining influence in Hong Kong so you came to me, hoping that I'd switch supplier to secure Baishe's position as the kingpin of Hong Kong and China."
The slightly defeated look on Fei Long confirmed Asami's suspicions. The yakuza let out a small, victorious laugh that he knew would further infuriate the Chinese triad leader.
The guard behind Fei Long growled and drew out his gun, "How dare you make fun of our boss?"
Suoh had his revolver in his hands before the guard could even raise his gun at Asami. "I wouldn't suggest that, if I were you," the bulky guard growled.
Unperturbed by the sight of the gun, Asami continued calmly, "You know I don't have to work with you, Fei Long. As long as I'm willing to pay, I can get my supplies anywhere I want."
Yoh spoke in Cantonese, ordering the guard to keep his gun. The man refused, tightening his grip on the gun as he argued in the Chinese dialect.
Kirishima was not fluent in Cantonese but he understood that the Chinese guard was belittling Asami. Without waiting for Asami to respond, Kirishima took out his gun and pointed it at the shorter guard.
"One more word about Asami sama, I'll put a hole on your head," he warned.
"Chen, I will not tolerate insolence. Keep your gun now or I'll tie a rock on your feet and dump you in Tokyo Bay myself."
Fei Long's orders had the guard cowered.
"Kirishima, Suoh, keep your guns," Asami spoke without looking at his men.
"I apologize, shall we continue?" Fei Long said rather charmingly. "Asami, sooner or later, Lu Qian will cheat you, just like Mah. Pass the baton to me; I will ensure that your shipment arrives on time and in full.
Asami knew Fei Long was right. He heard many things about Lu Qian but for the lack of a better option, he went to the Lu. He thought of working with Fei Long, only he hadn't formulated a perfect plan to approach him. As if luck was on his side, Fei Long contacted him first, allowing him to rethink and regroup his strategies.
"Promises like that are not convincing enough to make me switch supplier."
"A five percent reduction on the rates, would that suffice?"
Finally achieving what he wanted, the yakuza smirked. He rose from his seat gracefully, buttoning his coat.
Fei Long stood up smoothly, extending his hand, "Do I take it that you've agreed?"
Asami shook the offered hand, "We have a deal."
Fei Long withdrew his hand. "Now that we've reached a favorable conclusion, shall we celebrate our new business partnership over a drink?"
"We can head down to the club for a drink," Asami offered, playing the perfect host as he walked to the door.
"Why not invite Akihito? I'd like to see him."
Asami didn't bother hiding his displeasure. "I've said this before and I'll say it again, Akihito is mine."
A smirk grace Fei Long's lips. "You're too possessive. I fail to see what Akihito sees in you."
Ignoring the yakuza's deadly glare, Fei Long continued, "Well, pass him a message for me, will you? Tell him if he's tired of you, he can come to me in Hong Kong."
Asami told himself not to be led around by Fei Long. He regained his composure and smiled thinly. "That won't be possible because I will not let him go. I'd rather drag him to the pits of hell with me than send him to you."
Fei Long looked at Asami in annoyance. "Asami, you're really an unlikable person."
Xx Business as Usual xX
"Akihito, you're too good at this!" Takato grumbled as he gulped down his beer.
Akihito laughed cheekily, pushing the mahjong tiles to the center. "I'm the best!" he gloated.
"I'm getting drunk, Akihito," Kou said, covering his mouth to stop the reflux.
Akihito scooted nearer to Toru, eyeing him. "How come you're good at mahjong too? I thought you were in the army?"
Toru pushed his set of mahjong tiles to the center. "We play occasionally when we were off duty."
Crossing his arms across his chest, Akihito sulked. "No wonder you agreed to play with us despite knowing the penalty. You never drink while you're on duty."
His guard gave him an apologetic look. "I apologize, Takaba sama."
Akihito waved his hand. "I don't mind, since I won most of the rounds anyway," he grinned.
Kou finished his can, crushed it before dumping it into the make shift bin next to him. "Damn, there goes our plan," he groaned.
The photographer had a nagging feeling that his friends weren't up to something good. "What plan?" he asked suspiciously.
Takato rested his head on the table. "Kou and I thought of getting you drunk so we can tie a huge ribbon around you and present you to Asami san when he comes back."
Akihito sprang up from his seat, blushing. "Hey, that's not even –"he halted when he heard the familiar 'You've got a mail' ring tone on his phone.
He grabbed it immediately, ignored the cheeky grin on his friends' faces and scrolled the screen with his fore finger. It was from Sanada, the entertainment reporter.
'Yo, Takaba,' the cheery message started. 'Sorry about the other time when I couldn't get Setsuna's tickets for you. But I managed to get something good. I know you've been crazy over this guy and you always complained that you couldn't even get a single shot of him. I happened to see him while I'm on an assignment. Just open the attachment and you're welcome!'
"What attachment?" Akihito asked aloud, smiling as he noticed Sanada had even inserted the thumbs up emoticon. Without hesitation, he downloaded the zipped file.
As he waited for the file to be downloaded, he shifted his attention to his friends who were singing about Valentines' Day and chocolates. Akihito laughed when Takato did a poor impression of the actor in the chocolate commercial.
He sat down, a hand on his ribs, trying not to laugh too much or risked getting his ribs hurt. Finally, he focused back to his phone.
Great, the download is completed. Akihito thought, clicking on the file; and froze.
He didn't know how he should react when he saw Asami and Fei Long sitting in Club Sion next to each other, toasting whisky. The picture looked harmless but it didn't fool Akihito. He was, after all a trained observer. Though Asami's face wasn't clear, Akihito detected the barest hint of smile on his face. And Fei Long; the Chinese crime lord returned his lover's smile as he raised his whisky glass, toasting the drink.
Was this the reason why Asami hadn't been touching him lately? Because he had Fei Long to satisfy him?
Akihito tried not to be obsessed with the fact that his yakuza lover hadn't been making his usual play in bed. He reminded himself that he was hurt and Asami was merely tired after spending long hours in the office.
Quit it, Takaba Akihito! He scolded himself. They were sharing drinks, why should he get so twisted over it?
But Asami sees him as an equal, a worthy opponent; a man, an inner voice nagged. He might be naïve but he was no fool. Akihito spent some time with Fei Long in Hong Kong and whilst it wasn't very long, it was enough to understand that Fei Long still harbor some feelings for Asami. Fei Long wanted Asami's heart, his acknowledgement and even though Asami could never offer him that, he begrudgingly admitted that the Chinese was exceptionally talented and he was a worthy opponent.
Akihito stared at his phone again. Asami looked devilishly handsome with the same suit he wore that morning while Fei Long ditched his usual cheong sam, opting for a business suit instead. Both of them made a great picture, thought Akihito and immediately felt his heart twitched.
He couldn't even describe his emotions clearly. It wasn't jealousy he was feeling right now, nor was it anger.
Feeling sick all of a sudden, he clamped his hands over his mouth. The tears were coming, and Akihito knew he wouldn't be able to hold it much longer. He closed his eyes forcefully, willed for the tears to stop pooling around his eyes.
Did Asami betray him for Fei Long? Did Asami look at Fei Long, then at him; and regret? Just thinking about it made Akihito's heart ached.
Xx Business as Usual xX
"Akihito, you all right?" Kou stopped laughing when he realized his friend had been staring at his phone silently for a full ten seconds.
Toru who had been watching Akihito closely, felt something wasn't quite right when he saw the photographer had suddenly gone silent. Standing up, he padded towards Akihito, peering at the contents of his phone.
Shit, Toru thought, who could have sent Takaba sama something like that? His initial thoughts went to Ishida. He scratched the idea seconds later when he remembered Kirishima informed him two mornings ago that Ishida had left Tokyo to settle down in a remote, fisherman village in Okinawa.
"Hey, isn't that the foreigner who invited us on his ship?" Takato asked, looking at the phone curiously.
Kou moved closer, squinted his eyes. "Yeah, that's him. What's he doing with Asami san? Do they know each other?"
"Takaba sama , this is – "
Toru stopped whatever he was going to say when he noticed Akihito's face turned sheet white, his hazel eyes shocked as he continued staring at the contents.
"Akihito," Kou called urgently, shaking his hand.
Slowly, the photographer looked up at his best friends. He kept the phone, offering an unconvincing smile.
"Let's continue our mahjong."
The words came out a little forceful, Toru thought.
"Akihito, are you unwell? Do you need to lie down?" Takato placed a hand on Akihito's forehead.
The photographer pushed Takato's hands away, standing up abruptly. "I am perfectly fine, let's play mahjong!" he raised the volume of his voice in attempts to sound cheerful.
The utter misery on Akihito's face and in his voice made Toru flinched. If Asami were to see his lover's face right now, Toru had no doubts the person responsible for putting that look on Akihito would be severely punished.
Asami sama must be informed immediately, he thought, retrieving his phone.
And the guard barely had time to press a single button when his master snatched the phone, keeping it in his pockets.
"What are you doing, Toru? We're waiting for you to start." Akihito's voice cracked.
With Kou and Takato in front of him, there was no way Toru could explain things to Akihito. He obliged his master, sitting on the expensive rug again and started arranging the mahjong tiles.
It's bad, Toru decided five rounds later when he noticed Akihito was losing on purpose. The photographer purposely threw out good cards for Kou and Takato, causing him to lose points. Akihito didn't even need to be told to drink; he voluntarily took the cans of beer and chugged down the entire tin before his friends could protest.
"Takaba sama, stop. You've had enough," Toru took the can of beer from Akihito.
Akihito snatched it back from his guard. "Leave me alone, Toru. I got the lowest point, I should drink," he slurred.
"Akihito, Toru san is right. You're drunk," Takato said as he helped Toru to retrieve the can from Akihito's hands.
"I'm not drunk!" Akihito laughed. "I can hold my liquor well! Did you remember during the New Year party at obaachan's place?" he threw his head back, laughing heartily.
"We remember, you were drunk too," Kou said, slowly pushing the unopened cans of beer away from Akihito's reach.
"I wasn't!" Akihito said angrily, trying to stand up, only to knock his knee on the coffee table, causing him to tumble backwards on the couch.
"Takaba sama!" Toru said urgently, helping him up. He cursed when Akihito started to cry over his bruised knee.
Sensing Toru's worry, Kou said, "Don't worry about Akihito, Toru san. He tends to go bipolar when he's drunk."
Obviously hadn't seen this side of Akihito before, Toru was at a loss. Thankfully, Takato and Kou have been friends with Akihito long enough to know how to deal with him.
"Toru san, do you mind getting us some water for Akihito?" the guard nodded and disappeared into the kitchen.
"Kou, do you know how I got – hic– Setsuna's tickets for you during the New Year's Eve?" Akihito stopped his tears and grumbled, slapping a hand on his knee.
"We do, Aki-chan. You asked Asami san for the tickets right?" Kou soothed, patting Akihito's back.
Akihito placed both hands on Kou's shoulder. "I literally worked my ass off for that!"
Obviously had no clue what Akihito was referring to, Kou merely agreed, "Yes, Takato and I know that you worked hard for it."
"That's – hic– right. And that bastard actually tossed me aside for Fei Long!" Akihito wrapped his arms around Kou's neck, tightening his grip.
Already to the brink of suffocation, Kou signaled Takato to pull Akihito away. Takato pried Akihito's hands from Kou's shoulder, pulling him back so Akihito was resting on his chest. "Who's Fei Long? Takato asked.
"Acquaintance of Asami sama," Toru answered as he walked into the living room with a glass of water.
Takato and Kou sensed there were more to that but were smart enough not to ask further. Toru passed the glass to Takato, exchanging places with him. Toru had never doubted Takato's friendship with Akihito; still it would be disastrous if his boss were to walk in at that particular moment, seeing his lover resting his back on another man's chest.
Not that Asami sama would close an eye if he sees Akihito on my chest, Toru thought rather miserably.
"Akihito, drink some water. It'll help with the hangover," Takato murmured, gently lowering the glass on Akihito's lips.
"I'm NOT drunk!" Akihito flung his arms and the glass fell on the expensive carpet.
"Ah, shit," Kou cursed, watching the dark, wet stains spreading on Akihito's sweater. Bending down to pick the glass, Kou spoke, "Toru san, I think we better change his shirt and put him to bed."
Toru nodded and placed an arm around Akihito's back, supporting him up. "This way," he said, directing the duo out of the living room and into the master bedroom.
"Holy shit," Takato gasped as he opened the door.
The room was huge, bigger than an average Japanese's apartment. The king size bed stood at the center of the room on a slightly raised, carpeted platform. Across from it was a flat screen that hung neatly on the wall. The sitting area was located at the end of the room, next to the balcony, separated by panels of wide glass doors.
He looked at Kou who shared the same expression, only he wasn't vocal about it. As both of them continued to marvel at the size of the room and its luxurious décor, Toru placed Akihito on the bed.
"Do you mind getting Takaba sama's shirt from the closet?"
Embarrassed, Kou stopped gawking. He quickly walked to the closet, pulling the handle and made an audible gasp. The closet itself housed at least a few hundred pieces of clothing.
"Takaba sama's clothes are on the left," Toru spoke from behind.
Like a child being caught staring rudely, Kou blushed and immediately grabbed the nearest shirt he could lay his hands on, closing the closet quickly. He already felt that he had somehow intruded at Akihito's and Asami's space.
"Here," Kou whispered, passing the shirt to Toru. "We'll help him take off the sweater," he continued, signaling Takato to help him. Together, they tried pulling off Akihito's wet sweater but the boy was giggling so much that it made their task impossible.
"Stop it, Kou! It tickles," Akihito laughed, pushing Kou's hands away.
"Akihito, come on. You got to take this thing off or you'll catch a cold!" Takato reached for the sweater again.
I should call Kirishima, Toru thought, dropping the shirt on the floor to assist the duo.
"Nonsense, I haven't gotten a cold in – " Akihito halted his sentence, raising his fingers to count.
"—a month."
Toru recognized the voice anywhere. In slow, deliberate movements, he turned behind. Asami Ryuichi stood at the door, his golden eyes pierced at the group of men and his lover. Kirishima stood behind him with his coat draped neatly on his arms.
"A – Asami sama," Toru stood up and bowed.
"Asami san!" Kou and Takato said, relieved. They released Akihito, backing from the bed to make way for the yakuza.
"Hey, you're back!" Akihito stood up, wobbled to his lover and tripped over the carpet in the process, falling into his arms.
"Toru, what is going on here?" Asami asked as he gathered the boy in his arms.
"Ah – we can explain," Kou began, scratching his face absentmindedly. "Akihito got a little drunk and we were trying to change his sweater after he spilled the entire glass of water on it."
The lack of response from the crime lord was uncomfortable, even for Kou and Takato. After a moment of silence, the yakuza spoke, "I'll take it from here," he said, addressing Akihito's friends.
Kou nudged at Takato's arm. "Ah – we're about to leave anyway, right Takato?"
The light haired boy nodded, "Yes, we better go or we'll miss the last train."
"That won't be necessary," Asami interrupted, supporting a sleepy Akihito in his arms. Glancing backwards at his secretary, he ordered, "Kirishima, ask Suoh to take Akihito's friends home."
Kirishima bowed. Stepping aside, he offered the boys a polite smile. "This way, Takato san, Kou san,"
"Akihito, call us tomorrow okay?" Takato patted Akihito's back and walked out of the room with Kou.
"Toru, what did he take?" Asami spoke the minute the door to the master bedroom closed. He assisted the boy to the bed, made him removed his wet sweater before pulling the duvet to his chin.
"Beer, whiskey and brandy," the stoic guard replied.
Akihito isn't usually the type who drinks, let alone mixing alcohol. With his low alcohol tolerance, it was suicidal. Asami sat on the bed, removing his tie as he looked at his sleeping lover. Akihito's eyebrows furrowed as he slept. Clearly something was troubling the photographer.
"Did he go out today?"
"No, Kou san and Takato san came around 3 and they played mahjong until –"
"Continue," the crime lord ordered when the guard hesitated.
Toru bowed. "Until Takaba sama received a mail from an acquaintance. I wasn't sure of the details but there was a photo attachment."
"What was the content?" the yakuza's voice was icy now.
"A picture of you with Fei Long in Club Sion," Toru said clearly. "Takaba sama began to lose the rounds on purpose so he could drink. I wanted to inform Kirishima san but Takaba sama took my phone and kept it in his pockets."
True enough, the phone was in Akihito's pockets when Asami slid his hands into Akihito's khaki shorts. Passing the phone to Toru, Asami walked out of the room and moved to the living room. He found Akihito's phone under the table. He picked it up, bypassed Akihito's security on the lock screen and checked the mail he received.
Asami raised an eyebrow at the contents of the mail. The sender was a Sanada Hideki and from what he had read and understood, Sanada sounded as if he was helping Akihito.
So, blackmailing was clearly not the issue, the yakuza thought. His gaze flickered at a royal blue paper bag on the floor next to couch. Recognizing Marukoshi's paper bag, he took it, looking at the contents.
A neatly wrapped chocolate box was in it, complete with ribbons and a small fancy paper with gold lettering that read 'Happy Valentine's Day, Asami.'
The sound of someone clearing his throat had Asami's attention diverted to the lanky guard he hired to protect Akihito.
"Takaba sama requested Kou san to get it for him," Toru explained.
Amused, Asami flipped the box of chocolate around as he thought of Akihito's mortified look when he asked for his friend's help to get it. He had forgotten that it was Valentine's Day today. His thoughts went to his secretary, who must have collected the pile of chocolates on his behalf and dumped them in the trash bin.
Still, that doesn't explain why Akihito got drunk on purpose. Getting more frustrated with not knowing, Asami waved his hand at Toru, dismissing him. The guard bowed, bade him goodnight before excusing himself.
Asami let out a humorless laugh. It isn't like him to sit around and wait; Asami Ryuichi doesn't guess, he gets the answers when he wants it. Standing up, he decided that he'd confront Akihito about it. Knowing his stubborn pride, Akihito is unlikely to tell him what happened, Asami can attest to that.
He walked into the bedroom and his golden eyes immediately rested on the bundle, now buried in the warm duvet covers. Asami slid into the covers, pulling it away slightly to reveal Akihito.
Asami intended to wake the photographer using his best method – sex. Akihito seemed to sense his intentions for his eyes fluttered opened. Locking his gaze at Asami, he smiled coyly.
He's still drunk, Asami noted but decided that Akihito would just have to answer his questions. "Akihito –"he began but was cut off immediately when his lover suddenly flung the covers away roughly, pushing him to bed.
Asami stared at his lover. Akihito was on top on him, straddling him. Before he could even utter his lover's name, Akihito had crushed his mouth on his, kissing him roughly, forcing his lips to open before slipping his tongue inside. The kiss was deep and possessive, as if Akihito was marking Asami as his.
He raised his hands, cupping Akihito's cheeks but the photographer gripped on his wrists, pushing them above his head, caging him. In the midst of obliging to his lover's kisses, Asami didn't hear the sound of a metal cuff secured around his hands. By the time he realized it, it was too late.
The yakuza broke off the kiss. "Akihito, what are you doing?"
"Tying you up," his lover slurred. "I love the taste of you," his voice was low and husky.
Asami's blood leapt immediately with lust as his lover brushed his lips on his neck.
Pushing himself up so he was leaning his back against the headrest, he watched Akihito sat up straight as he took off his white singlet in slow, deliberate movements. The singlet was thrown backwards before his hands went to the buckle of his khaki shorts. He climbed off Asami only to peel the shorts and boxers off slowly, one at a time.
The need to flip the boy to his stomach and thrust his hardened cock into his tight hole was tempting but Asami held back. The metal cuffs didn't bother him a bit; he could have easily broken it into two if he wanted but he was fascinated and wanted to see the intoxicated boy taking the lead.
Fully naked, the boy climbed onto him again, brushing his cock on Asami's on purpose, smiling before placing his hands on the bed into a crawling position. Like a cat, the boy took his mouth again urgently, rougher this time.
Akihito reached for Asami's shirt and tore it, sending the first three buttons of his white designer shirt flung across the room. The photographer unbuttoned the rest impatiently, pushing the white shirt that was covering the yakuza's magnificent torso. He lowered his mouth to Asami's nipples, kissing it at first before biting on it.
It took a great deal of effort not to yield to the urges of his lust, ripped the damn cuffs apart and pushed his lover on the bed.
"Akihito – "
Akihito ignored Asami and moved lower to his belt. The yakuza was surprised at his lover's steady hands when he unbuckled his belt for Akihito had always fumbled; finding hard to concentrate in his task as he was too aroused.
The belt was pulled out, thrown aside. Asami watched the photographer lowering his mouth to his dress pants again. He darted out his tongue, licking his hardened cock through the expensive fabric before slowly unzipping the zipper with his teeth, all the while locking his hazel eyes with his golden orbs.
Asami had never seen Akihito so erotic before. The boy cuffed him to bed a few times, mostly under his request and even during those times, Akihito had never exhibited such daring acts before. He was always blushing, trembling, looking away.
The yakuza's voice hitched when Akihito took his leaking cock in his mouth, bobbing his head, pleasuring him. Asami's breath ragged, his visions blurred as he watched Akihito drove him to madness with his talented mouth.
Just when Asami thought he could no longer hold much longer, Akihito's mouth left his. He nearly groaned with frustration.
"Not yet," Akihito purred, licking the inner of Asami's thighs. "Was I better than Fei Long?"
Asami's eyes snapped wide open. "What are you talking about?" his eyebrows narrowed at his lover.
"Did Fei Long do this to you too?" Akihito straddled him. He placed two fingers in his mouth, coating it with saliva before inserting them in his puckered hole.
"Akihito –" the yakuza growled.
The warning didn't bother Akihito. He continued, "Since you refused to have sex with me, I'll help myself," the photographer said, removed his fingers and impaled himself on Asami.
"Akihito," the yakuza's voice was hoarse.
There was no finesse in their lovemaking. Akihito was demanding and urgent as he rode him hard and fast.
"Asami!" The photographer moaned.
It was heavenly, Asami decided, watching the boy on top of him. How many days did he spend thinking about Akihito like this? Holding back was not easy; it took all his will power not to touch the boy when he was recuperating from his injuries. That was why he spent longer hours at work, keeping his lust in control.
He's losing stamina, Asami thought when he noticed Akihito's movements had gone slower. It's time, Asami decided, planning to break the chains to the hand cuffs.
As if Akihito heard his intentions, he placed his hands on Asami's shoulder, gripping it hard for support as he rode him faster. He removed a hand, closing it around his own erected cock, pumping it.
Asami leaned his head back, groaning at the erotic display in front of him. He felt Akihito screamed his name before spurting the white, thick semen on his stomach.
And the movements stopped. The yakuza stared at Akihito, disbelieved. The boy actually slumped on his chest, fast asleep with his hardened cock still buried deep in Akihito's ass.
Effortlessly, Asami broke the metal chain. His thin lips curved a smile. Akihito is in for a great surprise when he wakes up.
Xx Business as Usual xX
Akihito stirred awake slowly, smiling.
What a great dream, he concluded. To watch Asami surrendering himself to his masterful lovemaking skills was an absolute pleasure.
He stretched – correction, he tried to stretch himself but something was clamping onto his arms tightly.
He opened his eyes and closed them again, slowly adjusting them to the bright lights before opening them again.
Asami had his hand propped against the pillow comfortably, staring at him.
Oh shit, Akihito gulped when he noticed he was bound with Asami's S&M leather cuffs. It was never good if Asami used one of his secret equipment.
"Asami, what – what are you doing?" he asked nervously.
The yakuza smirked, trailing his hand around his nipples. "What do you think?"
"Let me go, you pervert!"
"Finally back, Akihito? I thought I'd never see your fiery eyes again although I must say I don't dislike the seductive Takaba Akihito."
The photographer gulped. "You – you mean that wasn't a dream?"
Asami cupped Akihito's chin, turning it to his direction as he gazed on his hazel eyes. "It was real, even to the last bit where you climaxed and fell asleep without me releasing."
Akihito's cheeks turned crimson at Asami's statement. "I was drunk and didn't know what I was doing."
"You were very drunk," Asami agreed, pinching his nipples. "But still you had me tied up and had your way with me."
Akihito stifled a moan at the foreplay.
"Care to explain what were you thinking when you saw the photo of me and Fei Long together?"
The photographer's eyes widened slightly before looking away, staring at the pillow. "Nothing," he whispered.
Asami cupped Akihito's jaw, forcing the photographer to look at him again. "You thought I was fucking Fei Long, didn't you?"
"I did not!"
"Your emotions are transparent, Akihito," Asami curved a smile.
The sinister smile on Asami made Akihito gulped. Akihito knew he wouldn't get out of this if he didn't admit to it. Defeated, he whispered, "Did you regret taking me?"
"What are you talking about?"
The low, dangerous tone made Akihito shivered but it was too late to make any excuses. He stared at Asami, "Did you regret making me your lover and not Fei Long?
Akihito choked back tears when Asami remained silent. Fuck, he's not going to cry like a sissy. If Asami is tossing him out, he's going to walk out of the penthouse with his head held high.
Asami moved so he was hovering on top of Akihito. "Do you know how many nights I have to stand under the cold shower?"
"Huh?" What the hell was Asami talking about? Wasn't he tired of him and went to Fei Long? "You – you were avoiding it," Akihito mumbled.
"You were injured. Kanzaki said you needed six weeks to recover." Asami replied. "And I believed I've told you that I'll fuck you senseless once you're well enough, did I not?"
Ah shit, did the absence of sex made him stupid? Akihito gulped.
"Or perhaps you were jealous?" Asami asked and knew that he was right when Akihito blushed furiously.
"I – I'm NOT!" Akihito denied, although it was practically the truth.
The yakuza curved a smile, already foreseeing an enjoyable night. "What a foolish boy, to be jealous of Fei Long. He's a business partner, nothing more."
"You—you don't have to explain it to me , I –"
"Now that things are cleared," Asami smiled almost evilly, tracing a finger to Akihito's cock, "You will be punished."
"Nnn," Akihito moaned when Asami slipped a finger into him. "What for?" he panted when his lover added another finger before moving them in and out slowly.
"For you to think that I have an illicit affair with Fei Long that was inexcusable," the yakuza drawled.
"Ah – Asami! We just had sex!" Akihito protested when Asami slipped the third finger inside.
"You did," Asami reminded him as he moved his fingers faster. "I thought I was being considerate due to your injuries but it turns out you were having some silly thoughts about me and Fei Long. Just the thought of it is revolting."
Akihito couldn't respond; he was too aroused to bother with what Asami was saying. Finally, when he thought he could no longer take it, Asami replaced his fingers with his erected cock.
The boy screamed from the intense pleasure. "Asami, please!" he begged.
The last thing Akihito could remember before he surrendered himself completely to the erotic pleasures was Asami whispering near his ear, "Brace yourself, Akihito. You're not getting any sleep tonight."
Xx Business as Usual xX
In the wee hours of the morning, Asami gazed at his exhausted lover and curved a smile. His lover's wrists were slightly red from the bindings and the essence of their lovemaking was evident from the cum dripping from his delectable ass.
Even after their fourth time, – fifth time for Akihito –Asami was still not sated but he held back himself, reminding Akihito is still not fully recovered.
He cleaned the boy gently with a wet cloth and slipped into the bed, pulling the covers to his chest. Akihito rolled to his side unconsciously, resting his head on Asami's shoulder. The yakuza wrapped his arm around the boy, squeezing his shoulders gently before finally taking a well-deserved rest. It had been three long weeks.
To all my reviewers, I am very sorry that I didn't reply to your reviews personally. It has been a crazy, stressed month. I will try to get the next chapter out as soon as possible!
A big, big thank you to everyone who has taken time to read, favorite, follow and review chapter 16! Thank you to all my Russian readers at ficbook too!
To: Ryukei, Samerys707,jazlaura,whitangel, God-d-e-ss Eternity, yui eiri, redruby91, FanofBellaandEdward, lunaazul1991, Ninaloveanime, finderlov, yuichichan17, unluckyNumber13, dudumanb, Paulie MickyJ, ekimide, Wraqziez, massina, Lyfelly, LunarDragon1, StuffedCupcakes, Pigyz-kun, KittyCiel656, Orangejuice, Innocenteyes, Narutopokefan, kittyzala, Haruhi-kun, oosuan, akiasami, hawk1891, , fahaar, Asami's clown, psyNEKOpath, Rewinsan, larasGEE, Knox, Lyfelly13, c0c0ly, omitchi, KL-918, Ana, Suspicious Crow, kaname143, Kichou, nightmare1818, Do you want some fruits, CreedHartnet13, WolvesandAnimes, little snow, Anna, Lizzy0308, JoEdgardHom, Shane, KraziKat, Windying, seeker88, AngelRuby235, a-kun, YaoiMom, lovefinder, Nhaara, Ringo-pop, Ororo Girl, ichigirl21, Iphy-Chan, THANK YOU!
Thank you Serinji for sending me links on torture methods!