I really don't want to keep making excuses so all I can say is; I'm terribly sorry for the late update.
Thank you for all your insights on Kirishima and Toru pairing. I decided that I would keep things as it is at the moment.
Beta-ed by RiveReinStyx. I apologize for any other mistakes. I was seriously sleepy when I was doing my edits.
Disclaimer: Finder Series and its notable characters belong to Yamane Ayano sensei.
Warning: This is a Plot-What-Plot (PWP) chapter and I apologize if it's not to your liking.
The alarm went off on Asami's single diamond encrusted phone just before nine in the morning. Asami turned off the annoying bird chirping alarm quickly, not wanting to wake Akihito up. The boy was still sprawled by his side, dead to the world after three rounds of passionate lovemaking.
Pushing the covers away, Asami stood up, only to sit on the bed again. He pinched the bridge of his nose and closed his eyes as he waited for the dizziness to pass.
Beside him, his lover of two years stirred. For a moment, Asami thought Akihito had woken up but the photographer merely turned to his side and slept on.
For the next five minutes, Asami remained seated on the same spot yet the dizziness showed no signs of retreating. He gave up waiting, choosing to move into the bathroom for a shower instead. A wave of chill attacked him the moment he entered the shower cubicle.
It was unlikely that the temperature had dropped, Asami mused. August was arguably the hottest month in Tokyo, with temperature soaring up to 31 degrees on average. It had to be the excellent air conditioning he had in his room.
As he showered, he thought of the young photographer currently cocooned in the comforter on his bed. Asami smirked, pleased with the idea that Akihito was sleeping on his bed, well-spent.
Akihito hadn't completely gotten past of his bad experiences in Cambodia. The nightmares were less frequent of late but it didn't make them any less vicious. The contents of Akihito's dream had always been consistent, for Akihito reacted to the nightmares in the exact pattern. It began with Akihito whimpering like a child, begging Chey to stop the waterboarding torture. Then, he'd trashed his head side by side calling Asami's name, pleading him to come before finally screaming himself awake from the nightmare, bathed in his cold sweat.
Watching Akihito fighting his own battles only reminded Asami that he had really killed Chey far too easily. The yakuza couldn't go back to torture the dead Cambodian bastard but fate was on his side and bestowed him with three live sacrifices – and they were just primed for skinning. The men who ratted on him in favor of Chey paid dearly for their mistakes. By now, their bodies should have reached the seabed of the North Pacific Ocean
The trio cried, pleaded and promised the world to Asami but that did nothing to change their fates. The crime lord's wrath was unstoppable; his anger was tenfold upon learning that the men had mapped out a plan to kill Akihito should Toru fail his task. For them, death was inevitable.
There are more rats in the organization, Asami thought as he stood under the lukewarm water; he was sure of it. Whilst many of his men remained loyal; a few could be plotting to have him or Akihito harmed. He would have Kirishima and Toru do more digging into the employees' personal details later, Asami thought
Turning off the tap, Asami toweled dry his body and wondered about the chills he was having. He shrugged it off, knowing that he could not afford to take another day off. The hunting of Chey, as well as dealing with Akihito's nightmares had pulled him away from his legitimate business for days.
It is time to go back to Sion and look into matters.
Kirishima had worked efficiently, juggling heavy workloads between his underground activities and Sion but Asami knew his loyal secretary could no longer man the fort on his own.
As the crime lord got himself ready for work, he glanced at his sleeping lover. Akihito's steady breathing and unfurrow eyebrows indicated a peaceful sleep. Lips curved, Asami strode out of the master bedroom and found Toru sitting at his usual place with the morning edition newspapers.
Kirishima sat next to Toru, scanning the business news on his tablet. Both stood up immediately as Asami entered.
"Asami sama." They greeted simultaneously.
Asami nodded in response. "How are your injuries, Toru?"
"I am not a hundred percent fit but Kanzaki sensei has cleared me for duty, Asami sama," the lanky guard responded truthfully.
Kirishima stepped forward with Asami's coat. He helped his boss slip on the tailor made garment before retrieving Asami's work briefcase.
"What is Akihito's schedule for today?" he asked nonchalantly as he fixed his cufflinks.
Toru took out his note book, leafed to the middle. "Takeda san assigned him take some photos at a charity event at two. There's nothing after that, sir."
Asami noddded. "See that he stays out of trouble," he said and walked out of the penthouse without waiting for a response.
By the time Asami was seated comfortably at the back of the limousine, Kirishima immediately briefed him about his schedules for the day. It was jammed pack with meetings after meetings but they were nothing he couldn't handle.
"Boss, the external auditor called and noticed some untallied amounts in the documents we sent him."
Asami's eyes turned hard. "Which accounts was that?"
"NT Hopsital." Kirishima passed a few papers to the yakuza. "Ueda sensei alleged that the amount debited does not tally with the pharmaceutical supplies we received."
"Call Ueda and the NT director to my office." Asami's voice was icy cool. He scanned the report by Ueda, noticing the problem highlighted by the chief auditor almost immediately. For something like that to happen, it certainly looked like he had been away for too long. It was time to enforce some discipline in his subordinates.
Feeling nauseated from the reading, Asami placed the document aside and checked the time. Another wave of chill swept past him.
"Kirishima."
The secretary looked up from his tablet to the rear view mirror. "Yes, Asami sama?"
"Did you put the fan on full blast?"
Kirishima exchanged a disconcerted glance with Suoh before looking at his employer again. "No, sir. Are you feeling cold?"
"No," Asami lied, closing his eyes. This is going to be a long day.
Xx Business as Usual xX
The ambulance siren somewhere outside drew Akihito from his sleep. Stretching, he turned to his side. The right side of the bed where Asami slept remained empty but the smell of his faint cologne emanated from the pillow.
Even as the room cloaked in darkness, Akihito knew that the sun was probably at the peak position. He bolted onto a sitting position and grabbed his phone.
1.05 p.m.
"Shit!" Akihito flung the covers away, rushing to the bathroom to get ready.
He got out in less than five, not caring if he had showered properly. He remembered Asami washing him after the older man fucked him blind the night before so he shouldn't be that dirty. He donned his standard photographer attire: Jeans paired with white singlet and light khaki jacket. Finger combing his hair, he was about to leave the bedroom when he remembered that he had to wear formal for that particular event.
Groaning, Akihito went back to the wardrobe and grabbed the first long sleeve shirt he could get his hands on.
Who on earth demands a photographer to wear shirt, tie and dress pants? The photographer cursed as he tucked in his white shirt into his dress pants. The white shirt was a little large but Akihito did not pause to think if he should change.
Who cares if it's oversized anyway?
With some of Japan's most prominent celebrities attending the charity event, no one would be bothered to look at his oversized shirt. Hands reached into the closet again, he pulled out a black tie before walking out of the room.
"Toru!" Akihito rushed to him. "Are you completely recovered?" He asked, his hands clumsily fixing the tie.
"Yes, Takaba sama," came the monotonous reply. The guard took a step nearer to the photographer and pushed the struggling hands away.
"Allow me to assist you, Takaba sama."
"I'm not a kid," Akihito grumbled but didn't attempt to stop the lanky guard. With the rate he was going, it'd take him at least another ten minutes tying and another five fixing that damn thing into place.
"Why didn't you wake me up?"
Toru's gaze did not leave the tie. "I have orders to let you sleep," he replied, his fingers steady at the tie. He took a step back when the task was done.
"That bastard did that on purpose." Akihito turned to grab the camera bag. "Thank god I woke up on time or Takeda will fry my ass for showing up late." He checked the time again, cursed. "Shit; l have to leave now."
Toru followed the boy to the basement where Ando was waiting with the BMW. The photographer looked at the car, then at his guard. "Is there any Japanese car we can use? I can't ride an imported car to a charity event."
Akihito looked around the basement car park hopefully. "I don't want that sly Mitarai to take a look at the car and decide that I'm overpaid."
"Takaba sama, there's the Toyota Lexus," Toru replied, taking the camera bags from Akihito.
"Toyota it is," Akihito agreed instantly, not caring the model of the car. As long as it was a Japanese car, it should look less conspicuous.
Akihito was naïve to think that Japanese cars should look more economical. He slapped a hand on his forehead when Ando drove the sleek shiny silver metallic grey sedan from its parking spot. Apparently the Toyota Lexus did not look an inch less conspicuous than the BMW. In fact, they looked nearly identical. Akihito did not have time to argue so he merely slid into the back seat, cursing the innocent vehicle.
"Aren't there any other cars beside this?" he asked, eyeing the guards seated in front. "And what is the name of the car again?
"This is the Lexus, Takaba sama," Toru replied and immediately looked at his partner. "Are there others?" Toru asked Ando.
Ando drove the vehicle out of the building. "Yes, Asami sama owned a black Lexus FLA."
Akihito grabbed a mineral water from his camera bag. "And, does it look less expensive than this model?" he asked and took a few gulps.
It was Toru who answered. "No, it's a sports car, Takaba sama."
"And its starting price is 38 million yen," Ando added helpfully.
Akihito nearly choked. "WHAT? That bastard is seriously crazy." He quickly replaced the cap before he spilled drinks on the expensive leather seat. He checked the time and cursed again. "I hope I can make it."
"Takaba sama, our ETA is twenty minutes," Ando said as he turned into a junction.
Nodding his head, the photographer tugged at his shirt. Despite two sizes larger than what he usually wore, it was smooth and cooling on his skin. Akihito couldn't remember the last time he wore a shirt this comfortable.
When did I buy this?
Akihito only realized that he had asked the question aloud when Toru answered him. "You did not buy that, Takaba sama. The shirt you are wearing is Asami sama's."
The photographer stared at his guard, unable to form a complete thought. Finally, after successfully closing his open jaw, the photographer asked, "Toru, did you just say that the shirt is Asami's?"
Still composed, the guard gave a backward glance at his master. "Yes, Takaba sama."
Beside Toru, Ando offered a wavered grin, then looked away as Akihito's displeased eyes flashed at him.
"What the hell?" Akihito cursed as he looked the shirt. Now that Toru had mentioned it, the shirt did resemble Asami's many other white shirts in the huge wardrobe. Shit, I should have realized that it was the wrong shirt!
"When did you notice it, Toru?" Akihito asked, his face flushed from the embarrassment.
Toru kept his attention to the front. "Since you walked out from the master bedroom."
Flustered by Toru's reproachful tone, Akihito said, "Why didn't you tell me?"
"I am not in a position to comment on your apparel, Takaba sama," Toru answered, his eyes fixed on the front.
"Ando, did you notice it?"
The younger guard shook his head. "I realized the shirt was a little large but it did not cross my mind that the shirt belonged to Asami sama."
"Damn it," Akihito cursed, "Ando, turn back to the penthouse. I'm going back to change."
Ando did not respond; he exchanged an uncertain glance with his partner. The lanky guard checked his time and did a mental calculation.
"Takaba sama, if we make a detour now, you won't be able to reach on time."
"But I can't go there in Asami's shirt!" The photographer protested. If Asami knew about this, I'll never live it down.
"No one would know that you are wearing Asami sama's shirt – apart from us," Ando said.
Akihito groaned. "Precisely; both of you do! He glanced at his guard, eyes narrowed into slits. "Toru, don't you dare text Asami about this." His voice was almost pleading when he said that.
"Understood, Takaba sama."
Leaning back against the expensive leather seat, Akihito crossed his arms. "Let's hope that the event will end quickly so I can get home before Asami."
Xx Business as Usual xX
Nearly two weeks off from work, Asami was ready to chew his subordinates alive for their poor performances. Nearly every top brass who went into the management meeting chaired by Asami trembled in their seats when they presented their reports orally.
Badly managed clubs, mismanagement, poor revenues and discrepancies were among the major problems Asami noticed in his two weeks of absence. Given that he was not feeling his best, the crime lord's mood was dark and unreadable, which gave more reasons for the men in the meeting to worry since Asami was known not to be very forgiving when it came to mistakes.
The hour-long meeting ended with every other top brass positively screwed for their incompetence, with two unlucky ones removed from their positions, permanently.
"Kirishima, inform the department chiefs to submit their reports to me by nine tomorrow," Asami ordered the minute he entered his office. "A minute later, tell Suoh to escort them out of the building."
"Very well, Asami sama," Kirishima said, scribbling the task on his note book.
Asami leaned his head against the head rest, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Are there any reports that I should look at the moment?"
His secretary gave him a sympathetic smile. "Actually sir, there are a few," he said, pointing to a huge stack of files arranged neatly on the side of his table.
Asami usually wouldn't complain, seeing he was a self-proclaimed workaholic but at the moment, the urge to push the pile of reports aside was tempting. The annoying headache and chills he had since morning swept past him again. He closed his eyes.
"Asami sama," he heard his secretary asking. "Are you by any chance, unwell?"
Opening his eyes, Asami placed a finger around his temple, gently pressing it. "I have a headache, that's all."
Kirishima looked alarmed. "Would you like me to call Kanzaki sensei?"
"That won't be necessary." The golden eyes glanced at the pile of reports. "Reschedule the meeting at 8 this evening to tomorrow morning."
Kirishima bowed. "Yes, Asami sama," he murmured and exited the room.
Alone, Asami took a file and flipped it open. Trying to ignore the headache, Asami began the grueling task of reading.
Xx Business as Usual xX
The charity event started and ended on time, which surprised Akihito; considering celebrities were known to be late comers, even for country like Japan where punctuality is strictly observed.
The photographer managed to snap the photos he needed and aside being teased by Mitarai for the nice threads he was wearing, everything went well.
He bumped into Sanada Hideaki as well, a fellow journalist from the entertainment segment covering the event. Sanada caught him kissing Asami at the Sky Bar some time back and it remained a miracle that Asami not only had allowed the journalist to escape unharmed, he even offered Sanada an exclusive job covering Setsuna's Tour.
Amidst the crowd and time constraints, Sanada managed to corner Akihito where he excitedly reported Setsuna's tour. Akihito always wondered what happened to Sanada after the incident but seeing his friend's eagerness in hunting entertainment news made him felt somewhat relieved.
"Toru, if Takeda hears from Mitarai about my shirt and decides that I deserve a pay cut for being overpaid, I'm going to be dirt poor," Akihito said as he settled at the backseat of the Lexus.
"I don't think that will happen, Takaba sama."
Akihito checked his cameras and offered a half smile. "You never know what Mitarai would do. His need to surpass me is unfathomable."
"The shirt did not attract as much attention as the celebrities, Takaba sama," Ando offered.
Akihito pondered for a while. "True," he said, replacing the cameras in the bag. "I don't think that leech would bother, seeing that he managed to snatch an exclusive interview with the actress."
"Takaba sama, would you like to stop by Marukoshi to get some ingredients for dinner?" Toru asked but his hands were already programming the mart's location in the in-build GPS of the car.
Akihito looked at his shirt again before letting a long sigh. "Might as well. I ran out snacks anyway."
Toru nodded. "Ando, we'll stop by Marukoshi before going back to the penthouse."
"Roger that," the younger guard grinned and drove away.
Xx Business as Usual xX
For Akihito, shopping at Marukoshi had never been pleasant. Before the mart became his, the stuck up sales personnel would openly sneer at his torn jeans whenever he visited the mart. Now that Asami had bought the place, not only the staff treated him like royalty, he even had the entire fleet of staff following him around like obedient pets.
Two polar opposite attitudes with a thing in common – they both annoyed the hell out of him.
"Suzuki san, there is no need to follow me around. I'm sure you have things to see to," Akihito said politely.
"Oh, no. It's no trouble at all, Takaba sama. Your shopping takes precedence over other matters," the middle aged manager replied almost too enthusiastically. "We haven't thanked you enough for saving the store. Your quick and brilliant moves save Kobayashi san!"
Akihito didn't know whether to punch or thank Suzuki for that remark. Save the store he did, but quick and brilliant moves weren't what Akihito would use to describe his unheroic actions.
"Suzuki san, please – it is embarrassing." Akihito meant every word he said. He moved to the snacks section.
The manager pushed the cart behind Akihito and Toru. "Takaba sama, that is not embarrassing at all!" He protested.
At a point, Akihito got tired arguing with Suzuki. He figured that there was no way Suzuki would remove himself if he continued to speak politely. Placing a few items in his cart, the photographer turned to the manager. Using his most authoritative tone, Akihito said, "Suzuki san, I want you –"he said and was interrupted by someone calling the manager.
"Suzuki san!"
A woman Akihito recognized as one of the cashiers walked hurriedly to them, her decent walking shoes squeaking against the polished flooring. Worry etched on her lightly enhanced face as she approached them. "Suzuki san," she panted.
The manager's face turned stern. "What is it, Fujishima san? I specifically told everyone that I am not to be disturbed when Takaba sama is around."
"I'm terribly sorry, manager," the girl bowed, a few locks of her long hair tumbled down. "There is a sales representative from Asahi beer and he was very adamant about meeting you or the president."
"Where is the supervisor?"
The girl bowed before them again. "Kanbe san is currently dealing with him but he is already at his limits."
Akihito took the opportunity to push Suzuki away. "Suzuki san, I think you should go and assist the supervisor."
Suzuki's grey eyes looked at him. His lips opened, trying to protest and was quickly met with Akihito's response. "Suzuki san, you don't want another mishap to happen, do you?" he asked, referring to the robbery incident.
At the mention of the word, the older man bowed, muttered a quick apology and left with the girl.
"Finally, I can shop in peace!" Akihito said happily as he pushed his cart to the next aisle. "Do you know how suffocating it is to shop like that, Toru?"
The lanky guard offered no comments as he watched Akihito wheeled the cart to the drinks section. After successfully putting in a few more items in the cart, Akihito whirled around at his guard. "You know, for some weird reason, I got so used to having you around that I don't think you're that much of a pain."
Toru's dark eyes softened. A soft smiled graced his lips as he bowed. "Coming from you, it is indeed a high praise."
"Don't get so full of yourself yet, Toru." Akihito gave his guard a cheeky grin. "You're still a pain sometimes, just lesser than the rest –," he trailed off, staring at the rows of canned beers.
Sensing Akihito's sudden change of expression, Toru walked nearer to the photographer. The boy looked deep in his thoughts. "Takaba sama?"
His master gazed his hazel eyes at him. "I know you were merely following Asami's orders but –," Akihito touched Toru's arm. " – thank you for saving my life in Cambodia. I am glad you were there."
"And – I'm sorry you got hurt because of me," Akihito choked the last line out.
The hand that touched his arm fell and Toru knew that he must have shock written all over him for Akihito averted his eyes away from his uncomfortably.
"Takaba sama," Toru began after an awkward moment. "I may have been following Asami sama's orders but I assure you that I had no regrets taking the bullets for you."
Akihito smiled. " That sounds like something Haru-nii would say."
Toru actually returned Akihito's smile. "Haruhito san will be very disappointed if he hears that, Takaba sama."
Akihito laughed. "True. Haru nii can be an idiot sometimes but he means well," he said fondly as he placed a few cans of imported beer that Asami favored into his cart. "I think that's all I needed for now."
As he pushed the cart to the front, Akihito suddenly remembered that he hadn't gotten the eggs yet. Akihito groaned.
"Toru, can you help me bring these things to the front? I forgot to get the eggs."
Toru stopped him from sprinting off. "I'll get it, Takaba sama. You wait here," he said and went away.
Akihito watched Toru disappeared from his sight, his hands idly fiddling the packet of nuts in his basket. The nutritional facts behind the packet of nuts didn't seem interesting but he read it anyway to pass time as he waited for Toru to come back.
The argument between Suzuki and an unknown male had Akihito's attention diverted from the packet of nuts to the front. Alarmed something bad might have happened, Akihito left his cart and moved slowly to the front.
Suzuki had his hands clasped neatly in front; all the while shaking his head at the salesperson. The man, whose back was facing Akihito, was dressed in a black business suit. He was slim, slightly muscular behind that power suit and he looked extremely familiar.
"Sir, please. We simply cannot sell this product here. Marukoshi has its own set of rules to follow," Suzuki said desperately as he tried to reject the proposal from the salesperson.
"But Suzuki san, if you would give me five minutes – just five minutes to listen to our company's proposal, I can guarantee you that our company is offering Marukoshi a very good deal!" The man said, trying to argue his points across a very reluctant Suzuki.
Even his voice sounds like Haru nii. Akihito nearly laughed at the thought. Don't be ridiculous, he told himself. His brother couldn't be here doing sales. He was based in Fukouka.
"You are putting me in a very difficult situation, Takaba san," Akihito heard Suzuki said. "Our president, Takaba sama is not available at the moment and I am not permitted to make any decisions on his behalf."
Strange; he shares the same surname. Akihito peered closer at the salesperson, trying to be as discreet as possible.
"Your president is Takaba sama? Please, allow me to speak with him!" The salesperson said persistently.
Suzuki looked horrified at the suggestion. "Absolutely not! Takaba sama is a very busy man. He hardly has time to drop by -," Suzuki trailed off as he stared at Akihito.
The man caught Suzuki's stares and he too, turned at Akihito's direction.
As the man's jaw dropped wide open, so did Akihito's. Both men pointed their forefingers at each other, trying to say something but nothing came out. It was Suzuki who managed to break the silence.
"Takaba san!" he rushed in front of Akihito, blocking the photographer from the man. "You are being very rude to our president!"
"President?" The man's eyes were so huge that they were bulging. "President?" he repeated and forced his way through Suzuki. "What are you talking about? He's Takaba Akihito, my brother!"
With his mind still deciding if it was playing tricks on him, Akihito muttered his brother's name, "Haru-nii."
"Huh?" It was Suzuki's turn to look confused. He looked at Haruhito, then at his president before it finally clicked. "You are Takaba sama's brother?" He directed the question at Haruhito.
"Takaba sama?" Toru jogged towards them. Unlike the brothers, Toru looked worried at the scene unfolding before him.
"Akihito, what is going on?" Haruhito asked.
Akihito covered his face with his right palm. He had thought about the possibilities of his brother finding out the truth about his properties but he hadn't imagined it to be like this. Heck, he wasn't even prepared for it so how was he going to come up with an excuse?
And for the second time, Suzuki Kenta had innocently given away the truth about Marukoshi's ownership. The first time it happened, Kou and Takato nearly had stomach cramps from laughing too hard. That had embarrassed Akihito but this – This is a mess. Akihito let out a long sigh.
"Akihito." His brother's voice sounded more confused than angry. "What did he mean when he called you the President?" he asked again, this time grabbing Akihito's arms.
Akihito averted his eyes. "Ah – nii san – it's – ah –"
"Takaba sama is the owner of Marukoshi," Toru said without hesitation.
"TORU!"
"WHAT?" Haruhito nearly shouted. He shook Akihito's shoulder. "Akihito, when did you purchase this upscale mart?"
Toru was about to open his mouth again but Akihito was quicker this time. "Toru!" he shot a warning glare at his guard.
"Akihito?" Haruhito shook the photographer's shoulder again.
Akihito sighed. "Haru-nii, come with me. I'll explain everything."
It was only then Haruhito's grip on Akihito loosened. Akihito led his brother outside where Ando was waiting with the Lexus. Sliding into the car, he motioned his brother to do the same. In front, Toru took the passenger seat.
"Takaba sama, where would you like to go?" Ando asked, his eyes never left Haruhito.
Akihito remained silent for a while, giving serious thoughts about a suitable place for him to have serious discussions with his brother without interruptions. He selected the penthouse since there was no place better than Asami's fortress. Besides, he needed to change his shirt anyway.
"Can you take us home?" Akihito asked before looking at Toru. "Toru, can you help me to inform Suzuki san that I'll pick the goods later?"
The lanky guard glanced at Akihito. "I have made arrangements with Suzuki san to have them delivered to the penthouse."
"Thanks," the photographer mumbled.
The ride back to the penthouse was awkward and uncomfortable. Akihito glanced at his brother several times who seemed to be preoccupied with his thoughts. The elder Takaba's emotions were transparent. Yes, there was confusion but there were also hints of worry and anger.
The photographer remained seated on his side in the car, not daring to make casual conversations. What excuses could he give Haruhito? Should he say that he won the store by lottery?
That's ridiculous, he scolded himself. Maybe he could say that Asami employed him as the company president – he carried the thoughts all the way back to the penthouse.
Xx Business as Usual xX
Toru smelled trouble the minute he heard Suzuki arguing with someone at the front. Unlike his master, he recognized the owner of the voice as Haruhito immediately. He thought he could reach the photographer on time, but it turned out Suzuki was a poorer actor than he thought.
Just who would say that the company president is not around, and then turned to stare at him? Of course Haruhito would know.
Since things had escalated to the point of no return, Toru did the next logical thing. He contacted Kirishima via text. Giving the secretary a concise report, he requested for the next possible action.
Kirishima's reply was swift and it only bore a line of instruction.
Asami sama ordered you to switch on the video camera in the penthouse.
Toru texted back. 'Is there a video camera at the penthouse?'
'Yes.' Came the reply. 'The switch is located behind the shoe cabinet at the genkan.'
Scary was the only word Toru could think when describing Asami Ryuiichi. He had never thought Asami would bug his own place since he was a person who valued his privacy. Toru supposed when it came to Akihito, there was nothing that his employer wouldn't do.
The video would most probably be wired to the lap top at Asami's office, so even without his reports, Asami would still know every word Haruhito said to Akihito.
Toru settled back in his seat as he watched Ando drove into the building where his employer stayed.
Asami Ryuichi is a man that cannot be messed with. And Takaba Akihito is a person that no one should try messing with.
Xx Business as Usual xX
Haruhito's reactions when entering the penthouse was something Akihito couldn't forget. He wasn't as vocal as Kou and Takato but the reactions were similar in many ways.
His brother's eyes widened, his jaw dropped a few centimeters as he stood rooted at the entrance of the living room, staring at the luxurious apartment.
"Haru nii, have a seat."
His brother complied, choosing to sit on the three-seater couch facing the television. Akihito went to the kitchen and brought two cups of green tea, something his brother favored. Placing the expensive glassware on the table, he pushed it to Haruhito who made no attempts to drink.
"Haru nii," Akihito began as he sat next to his brother.
"Where's Toru san and Ando san?"
"They are outside the penthouse."
Haruhito nodded before turning to Akihito. "Akihito, you have to tell me what is going on. Was Suzuki san telling the truth?"
Akihito couldn't see a reason to lie. "Yes," he admitted.
"How did you buy that place? You don't earn enough to even pay for rent, let alone purchase an upscale mart like that." Haruhito caught Akihito's hand. "Did Asami buy it for you?"
If there was anything about Haruhito, he wasn't stupid. Always the brighter sibling in the family, Takaba Haruhito had always been quick on the uptake.
"Yes," Akihito muttered again, finding it pointless to hide the truth from his brother.
Like a father whose son caught playing truant, Haruhito sighed disappointedly. "Aki, you are my precious brother. I really don't like the idea of you living like a mistress."
"I'm not his mistress; I earn my own keep!" Akihito denied hotly.
"No?" Haruhito gave his brother an angry glance. "Then, tell me what this looks like, Akihito?" He waved at the luxurious apartment. "You live here with him, go everywhere in luxurious cars and even have your personal guards. As if that wasn't enough, he even bought you properties. If you don't call this being a mistress, then define the word for me."
Haruhito's blunt statement hit Akihito right where it hurt; so much so that he couldn't even retaliate. He stared at his thighs guiltily.
"I don't intend to stop you just because you're with Asami but this –," Haruhito waved around the apartment again. " – this, I won't keep quiet."
"You know me, Haru nii. I never ask for the things," Akihito said quietly.
"But you didn't reject them either." Haruhito gritted the word out. A few strands of his perfectly combed hair fell in front and he pushed it behind impatiently.
"I told Asami that I won't have him keeping you like a mistress and discard you once he's tired of you." Haruhito placed a hand on Akihito. "You deserved better, Aki," he said gently.
Akihito's determined gaze met his brother's. "Nii san, I chose this. I can't escape even if I want to," he replied honestly.
When Sudou Shu made him choose between his career and Asami, he chose the former, only to regret it when he sat in the police lock up after the scuffle with the thugs at the park. His mind knew it; knew that Asami was a dangerous man but his heart refused to heed the warnings. So when Kuroda brought him back to Asami, Akihito told himself that he wouldn't run anymore. He chose this; he chose Asami.
Haruhito placed both hands on Akihito's shoulders. "I know that bastard was holding you against your will," Haruhito cursed. "Don't worry, Akihito. Nii san will help you. We can hide you and –"
"You misunderstood me, nii san. I don't want to."
The hands on his shoulders dropped. Haruhito inhaled and then exhaled loudly before he finally exploded. "Akihito, wake up. Do you know what sort of person Asami is?" He stood up from his seat, his dark eyes burnt in anger. "On the surface, he's a businessman. Behind that mask, he's a dangerous man – a man who would kill anyone who opposes him!"
Haruhito knelt on the plush carpet, facing Akihito. "He kills people Aki," he stressed the fact again.
"I know," came the audible reply. "I know who he is," Akihito said; this time his voice was stronger.
"And you still want to be with him?"
Akihito nodded his head.
"Do you love him?"
The straight forward question from the elder Takaba caught Akihito off guard. Eyes widened, he stared at his brother's dark eyes. Haruhito looked grim.
"I – I –"
"Do you love Asami so much that you'll stay with him despite knowing who he is?" Haruhito probed as he shook Akihito's hands.
Akihito swallowed a lump. "Why do you want to know?"
"If your answer is yes, I won't question your relationship with Asami ever again. But if you answer no," Haruhito paused, ran a tongue across the upper row of his teeth, "Then I will use whatever means possible to get you away from him, even if it cost me my life.
The seriousness told Akihito that his brother wasn't joking when he said that. He hadn't thought about the 'L' word since he just assumed that both Asami and he stayed together to satisfy each other's urges. Now that his brother had brought it up, Akihito ransacked his brain, trying to make sense of his feelings for the crime lord.
"Akihito, do you love him?" Haruhito asked for the third time.
Akihito looked away and slowly, he nodded his head. "Uhm – nmm," was all he could manage before he felt his cheeks burned from embarrassment.
Withdrawing his hands from Akihito, Haruhito took his seat on the expensive leather couch next to Akihito and let out a long, dejected sigh. "I understand. I will keep my word. I won't say anything about your relationship with Asami again."
The weight on Akihito's shoulders immediately lessened. He smiled. "Thank you Haru-nii."
Haruhito offered a reluctant smile. "It was the hardest decision ever."
Both brothers were silent for a moment, enjoying a moment of quietness after the raging storm. Haruhito took his chance to sip the green tea. "It's cold."
Akihito gave a hearty laugh. "I'll pour you a fresh cup," he said, standing up in the process. "By the way, why are you in Tokyo, Haru nii?" he asked, changing the topic.
Haruhito followed his brother to the kitchen. "I was sent by the company to persuade the president of Marukoshi to sell our Asahi special premium gold beer."
Passing the freshly brewed cup to Haruhito, Akihito filled his own with water before leading his brother back to the living room. "Why Marukoshi? It's just one expensive mart. Wouldn't it be better if you market it in other local marts?"
Haruhito nearly scalded his tongue. "Aki, you're the president of Marukoshi, aren't you?" When the photographer nodded, Haruhito continued, "Then you should know that Marukoshi has more than ten branches, scattered around the four islands of Japan."
Akihito choked on the plain water he was drinking. "WHAT?"
"There have been a few unsuccessful talks between Marukoshi and our company. The boss sent me to Tokyo to negotiate with the president himself."
Overwhelmed by the information, Akihito could only nod his head. He didn't know that Marukoshi had branches. Most importantly, he didn't know that Asami had bought all the branches for him.
That bastard.
Then it clicked. "Haru nii, you said you needed to get the contract with Marukoshi right? In that case, I can help you to –,"
"No," his brother interrupted, putting the cup on table. "I know what you are trying to say but, no. I don't want you or Asami to award me the contract just because I'm your brother."
"But –"
"I have my pride, Aki. I want you to accept my proposal because it has business value to it." Haruhito smiled.
That, Akihito could understand. If it were him, he wouldn't feel proud if Asami had interfered in his job. A moment of silence had passed before Akihito looked at his brother again. "Haru nii, let's go," he said, pulling his brother up.
Haruhito allowed Akihito to drag him out of the penthouse. "Where are we going?"
Akihito ignored Haruhito's question and flung the door open.
Toru stood at the door. "Takaba sama?"
"Take us to Sion Headquarters, Toru."
"Why are we going there?" Haruhito asked the minute they were seated at the back seat of the BMW.
Akihito smiled. "I might not know about business but Asami does. We're going to get Asami to listen to your proposal and if he decides that it's good, then we'll have a deal."
"Akihito –"
"That is the least I could do, nii-san."
The elder Takaba sibling ruffled the photographer's hair. "Thank you, Aki-chan."
"Don't call me Aki-chan," Akihito scowled. "And Haru nii –," the photographer trailed off before continuing. "Don't tell Asami about our conversation just now." The photographer blushed, remembering the confession.
Haruhito snorted. "And let him be satisfied about it? No, I won't give him that pleasure."
Akihito laughed. "Thanks Haru-nii."
"Akihito, I have been meaning to ask you," Haruhito looked at Akihito's oversized shirt. "The shirt is too large for you. Did you get the wrong size?"
Ah, fuck. Akihito cursed as he stared at Asami's shirt in dismay. He had forgotten to change – and they were heading to Sion.
Xx Business as Usual xX
Asami moved his cursor to the red x button at the far right of his lap top, closing the window to the video he had just watched.
He smirked, satisfied. When Toru texted Kirishima about Akihito bumping into Haruhito at Marukoshi, he didn't expect Akihito would hold their discussion at the penthouse.
It felt like a mouse walking into its trap, Asami mused as he sipped the strong coffee that Kirishima had prepared. Akihito didn't know that he had security cameras in the penthouse and Asami had no intentions telling him that. They were rarely in use but the crime lord supposed there are special occasions that would require the assistance of the gadget.
Like today. Haruhito's confrontation about Akihito's relationship with him was foreseeable but Akihito's reactions weren't. A satisfied smile graced Asami's lips when he watched Akihito's confession.
Like a blushing bride, the boy had his eyes averted to the side as he openly admitted his feelings in front of his brother. Asami would take his lover to bed that instant if he were in the penthouse. He decided that he'd do just that when he returned to the penthouse – such obedience need to be rewarded.
Now, if only he could do something to the chills he had since morning. The yakuza massaged his temples again.
A discreet knock had Asami's attention shifted to the heavy oak door. His secretary walked in, passing a file in the process. "Asami sama, the director of NT Hospital is here to discuss the discrepancies in the medical supply purchases."
"Where is he?" Asami flipped the report open and immediately felt his head began to pound.
"Waiting at the guest room, sir."
Asami dumped the file on the table. "How is he, Kirishima?"
Kirishima pushed his spectacles up, smiling. "Trembling in his seat."
"Good," Asami smirked. "Send him in."
Kirishima bowed. "Right away, Asami sama."
As his secretary closed the door to his office, Asami put the thoughts of rewarding his lover on hold, slipping on his working mask. It's time to chew someone alive.
Xx Business as Usual xX
The BMW that ferried the Takaba siblings entered the basement parking of Sion and headed straight to a designated parking bay located near the entrance.
The guard tasked at basement duty immediately came forward to open the door for Toru. "Toru san," he greeted, bowing.
Nodding his head, the lanky guard buttoned the top button of his coat before moving to the back seat door. "Makoto, Is Asami sama still in the office?"
The young guard bowed again. "Yes, the boss hasn't left the building since this morning."
Toru replied with a discreet nod. He opened the door to the back seat, allowing the brothers to get down.
"Takaba sama, it's a pleasure to meet you," Makoto bowed. It was obvious from his salutation that it was his first time meeting his boss's lover face-to-face.
Never used to such formal greetings, Akihito returned the greeting awkwardly. "Uh – yeah – It's a pleasure."
Makoto looked at Akihito as though as he was star struck. "Thank you, Takaba sama!"
Akihito thought it was weird of the guard to thank him but he didn't elaborate on that part. Beside him, Haruhito looked composed yet Akihito knew that his brother was probably tensed about meeting Asami.
During Haruhito's last visit at Sion, he confronted Asami about their relationship. The photographer didn't know the details of the conversation since Haruhito wouldn't tell no matter how he tried to get him to talk. Asami wasn't exactly a joy to converse with, so Akihito was left in the dark about the details of the conversation. He knew the gist but it wasn't enough to get the whole picture.
As Toru led them into the private elevator that would bring them straight to the top floor where Asami's office was located, Akihito stole a quick glance at his brother. There was a worried look on the elder Takaba and the photographer suspected that the sole contributor to his brother's worried looks had to be Asami.
Whatever Asami had told Haruhito during their last meet, it wasn't pleasant, Akihito was sure of it.
That jerk, Akihito thought. If Asami had somehow threatened his brother, I'll kick that bastard's ass.
Xx Business as Usual xX
"So, Director Nakai, care to explain why the amount given out does not match the pharmaceutical supplies the hospital receives?"
A bead of cold sweat formed on the old man's forehead. Hands shakily flipping the document, he gulped a few times as he stared at the untallied accounts. "A – Asami sama, this has to be some sort of mistake. I assure you that the supplies are in order."
Asami retrieved his cigarette from his pocket and placed it between his lips. His dutiful secretary immediately bent forward and lit the stick.
"Let's just assume that the supplies were indeed in order. Then explain why Yanada Pharmaceutical Supplies still receives a monthly check despite the services have been terminated four months ago?"
Again, Nakai gulped uncomfortably. He raised his eyes to meet Asami's and immediately looked away. "Asami sama, I am confident that it is merely a technical glitch. If you would allow me a few days, I would definitely provide you a satisfactory report."
Asami crushed the half burnt cigarette. He pulled the drawer on his right open and retrieved his gun. "Do you take me for a fool, Nakai?" He snarled, pointing the semi-automatic at the director.
"Yanada Pharmaceutical Supplies is your company. You continue to provide me fake invoices even after I terminated the contract." The crime lord released the safety catch.
The man in his late fifties immediately left his seat and knelt on the carpeted floor. "Asami sama, please forgive me! I swear, I will return your money and tender my resignation. You won't see me ever again," the man sobbed openly.
Asami stood up, walked round his table and leaned against the edge. "Give me a good reason why I should let you live after you cheated from me."
"Asami sama, please forgive me. I am in heavy debts at the moment." Nakai sobbed. "The thugs, they'll take my daughter and kill me if I don't pay!"
Asami bent down, grabbed a fistful of Nakai's grey hair and yanked it up. "And you think I won't?" Slamming Nakai's head on his carpeted floor, the yakuza pressed the gun at the back of Nakai's head. "Let me remind you that whatever the thugs plan to do is nothing compared what I can do to you. Shall I demonstrate to you now?"
Nakai trembled violently. "No, no. Asami sama, please. I beg you. Please – please – please."
With his forehead on Asami's expensive plush carpet, Nakai continued to plead for his leniency, which annoyed the crime lord. The headache and chills he had since that morning hadn't subsided and with Nakai chanting on his feet, Asami felt that someone had just hammered a long nail at the back of his head.
He closed his eyes briefly, opening it again. "Kirishima, slice his tongue off if he say another word."
The bespectacled secretary nodded, hands reaching into the inner pockets of his tailored suit, pulling out a knife in the process. At the sight of the sharp blade, Nakai kept his mouth shut but that didn't stop him from sobbing.
The knock on the door had Asami's attention fixed at his secretary. "I thought I said I don't want to be disturbed."
Kirishima bowed. "My apologies, Asami sama. I did instruct the staff that we are not to be disturbed no matter the circumstances." He walked to the door, opening it a little.
"Suoh," Kirishima greeted, stepping aside for the bulky guard to enter. "What's going on?"
Suoh took note of the serious situation and quickly locked the door behind him. "Asami sama, I apologize for the intrusion. Takaba sama and his brother are here to see you."
Asami's left eyebrow raised. He should have watched the entire video before closing it off too soon. "Did Akihito mention why he wants to see me?"
Suoh bowed again. "No, sir. Even Toru couldn't be sure of the specifics."
"Where are they?"
"Waiting in Kirishima's office, sir."
Asami kept his gun. "Bring this garbage out and show him how I deal with people who cheat from me," he ordered the guard. "Be discreet."
Suoh nodded his head in response and went to Nakai. Hauling the man to his feet, the bulky guard dragged him out of the room.
"I'll escort them here, Asami sama," Kirishima said before exiting the room.
Alone, Asami sat behind his desk, and massaged his temples. Over the hours at Sion, Asami felt his headache doubled, chills worsened and his body weakened. He suspected fever but like his lover, he wasn't fond of medication.
He drank the coffee again and nearly spat the liquid out. Nothing tasted as bad as cold coffee. Grabbing the unopened mineral water on his desk, Asami gulped down half the bottle and placed it on the table again.
It was rare for Akihito to visit him at Sion. Most of the time, the photographer had to be blackmailed or dragged to his office so it piqued Asami's interest why his lover would voluntarily pay him a visit. And then there's Haruhito, Asami thought. Like Akihito, Haruhito wouldn't even set a foot in Sion if he were given a choice. Really, the brothers had too much in common.
The discreet knock had Asami's attention shifted to the door. His secretary entered first, followed by his lover, Haruhito and Toru. The yakuza noted that Akihito looked uncomfortable. He had his hands clasped in front as Kirishima led them to the sitting area.
Asami smirked, realizing the cause of Akihito's awkwardness immediately. The boy had worn the wrong shirt to work and he was trying very hard to hide it. Haruhito looked slightly uncomfortable, evidence that he had not forgotten about their last conversation. The yakuza told Haruhito rather bluntly during the last visit that he would not react kindly to anyone who intended to take Akihito away from him – Haruhito included.
"Akihito, this is a surprise," he greeted casually.
Akihito averted his eyes for a while before looking at the crime lord. "I – I need to ask you something." He sat on the visitor chair and prompted his brother to do the same.
The infamous eyebrow shot up. "I assume it's something of great importance, seeing that you asked Ando to chauffer you here."
The photographer fidgeted in his seat. "Yeah – I mean no. It's not about me but I need you to read Haru-nii's proposal."
"Proposal?" Asami leaned forward and rested his hands on the table.
"Haru-nii is here to meet the representative of Marukoshi. He's trying to sell Asahi premium beer in all Marukoshi stores –," the photographer halted before standing up.
Akihito's fidgetiness a moment ago was replaced by a flash of anger. "Speaking of Marukoshi, did you buy all the branches in Japan and placed it under my name?"
Asami glanced at his secretary standing beside him. "Did I, Kirishima?"
Kirishima bowed. "Yes, Asami sama. Marukoshi has a dozen branches located throughout Japan, with Tokyo as the main branch. Takaba sama is listed as the President and CEO of Marukoshi Corp."
Asami glanced at Haruhito, who looked shocked beyond words. Then, he rested his gaze on his lover. "I did."
Infuriated by Asami's nonchalant answer, Akihito slammed his hands on Asami's desk. "Are you crazy? You bought all the stores and placed it under my name?"
"If you had put your journalist skills into good use, you would have found out immediately."
Akihito looked away for a while, embarrassed that Asami had hit him at the sore spot. "I –I still think you have a few loose screws on your head. In the first place, I don't need so many stores."
"Pardon my interruption, Asami sama," Kirishima interrupted, "Takaba sama, Marukoshi did not have multiple proprietors to begin with. That is why when Asami sama bought it, he had to buy the entire corporation."
"But – but –" Akihito sat on the chair again.
"Akihito," Asami cut in. "You haven't stated your real purpose of being here yet."
"Oh – right," the photographer replied, his anger and forgotten immediately. "Haru-nii, your proposal?" He held out his hand.
Astounded by Akihito's bluntness in front of Asami, it took a moment for the elder Takaba sibling to snap out of it. He rummaged through his briefcase, pulling out a folder before passing to Akihito.
"What is this?" Asami took the offered file, flipping it open. The words seemed to be jumping all over the place as his head began to pound again.
"It's Haru-nii's proposal for Marukoshi," the photographer explained, looking at his brother.
"Marukoshi is your company, Akihito," Asami reminded his lover. "You are free to grant proposals or amend anything that you deem fit."
It was Haruhito who answered, "Asami san, I don't want my brother to accept my proposal just because we're brothers. I do not condone nepotism; I have my pride."
"Since I'm clueless about business, the least I can do is to bring his proposal to you. You are familiar with these stuff; you'd know what is good or bad." Akihito's hazel eyes flashed at the crime lord, determined. "Read the proposal, Asami. If you think it's not beneficial to the company, I'll reject it."
Asami looked at the neatly arranged folder again. "All right, give me a concise report of the proposal."
Haruhito sat up straight. "This is a proposal for Marukoshi to sell Asahi premium beers."
Asami closed the file, finding it difficult to concentrate. He passed it to Kirishima. "Marukoshi doesn't sell locally produced alcoholic beverages."
"I am aware of the fact," Haruhito stood up. "That's why I propose to have the new premium blend beer to be sold exclusively at Marukoshi and a few other prestigious clubs in Japan –" Haruhito halted.
"It is a win-win situation. Marukoshi will be the sole dealer of the beer and it will also create an impression that beer is an exclusive blend that can only be found at upscale marts like Marukoshi," Haruhito continued when he noticed Asami did not offer much reaction to his initial explanations.
Leaning back against the leather seat, the crime lord rested his elbows on the arm rest. "I don't see how it that can be a win-win situation for Marukoshi. It sounded like you're trying to do branding for the premium beer at Marukoshi's expense."
Haruhito showed his top sales manager prowess immediately. "Asami san, I understand your concerns but at page four of the proposal; we listed the percentage of interests and benefits for Marukoshi."
"Kirishima, what do you think of the proposal?" Asami asked.
The secretary closed the file. "It looked promising, Asami sama. The remunerations are satisfactory but I will need more time with the proposal before I can offer a more concrete report."
Asami nodded his head. "Leave the proposal here. Kirishima will get back to you in a few days."
Haruhito looked so happy that he could jump. "Thank you." He bowed before turning to Akihito. "Thanks, Aki chan."
"Don't call me Aki-chan," Akihito grumbled but he too, had a smile plastered on his face.
Haruhito stood up, bowed slightly. "I look forward to hearing a favorable reply from you," he said to Asami and turned to Akihito. "By the way, do you know how to get to this club called The Fixer? It is one of the clubs targeted by our company and I am trying my luck there."
Akihito nearly fell from his chair. "Nii san," he stuttered. "Here's the thing – uhm – The Fixer – uhm –"
"Takaba san, you can leave your proposal for The Fixer with me," Kirishima said, pushing his spectacles up.
"The Fixer belongs to you?" Haruhito directed the question at Asami, mildly surprised with the fact.
"No, The Fixer belongs to Akihito," Asami stated.
"Asami, you bastard!" Akihito spewed. He didn't want to look at his brother now, knowing that he'd be furious. The idea of Akihito owning a chain of upscale marts had only started to sink in to Haruhito; and Akihito couldn't imagine his brother's reactions if he found out about his other properties.
Akihito was thinking of a plausible excuse when his brother spoke. "At this stage, I am not surprise with what Akihito owns."
It was Akihito's turn to look surprise. "Haru-nii?"
The elder sibling patted the photographer's shoulder and offered a reluctant smile. "Akihito, I am not stupid. I can figure out things on my own." He looked at the crime lord. "I'm sure he has more properties than that, am I correct to assume so?"
Still seated, the yakuza curved a thin smile. "Like I've told you before in our previous meeting, I am pleased that you are at least intelligent."
Haruhito smirked in response. Retrieving his briefcase, he took out another file, placing it on Asami's desk. He turned to Akihito. "I still have work to do; can we meet tomorrow at noon for lunch before my flight?"
Akihito could only nod his head as he watched his brother left the room with Kirishima. Alone with Asami, the photographer sat at the sitting area in the office, unsure of what to say.
"Come here, Akihito." Asami's voice was low, husky and it sounded slightly hoarse.
"Why – why should I?" The photographer asked nervously; fully aware of Asami's intentions.
"I can go there and get you if you like."
Cheeks crimson, Akihito stood up and slowly walked around the table until he stood in front of the crime lord. He kept his head down, choosing to stare at his own shoes rather than looking at Asami's godly sculptured face.
A single hand traced gently along Akihito's arm before yanking the photographer forward. Akihito yelped in surprised and before he could start protesting, he found himself straddling Asami with his waist locked tight in his lover's strong arms.
"What the hell are you –" Akihito's protest died down when he felt Asami's lean fingers tracing his lips. The photographer shivered, despite Asami's fingers was warm.
"You feel a little warm," Akihito muttered, looking away.
His lover smirked. "That's because you are shivering. Did you miss me that much, Akihito?"
"You conceited bastard. It's not because of you."
"Then, care to tell me why you are wearing my shirt?" Asami popped the first button of the shirt.
Fuck. Akihito forgot that he was still wearing Asami's shirt. Cheeks burned from embarrassment, he made a silly attempt to cover the white shirt. "I wore the wrong shirt, that's all."
Asami cupped his hand on Akihito's cheeks. "Really? Showing up in my office in my shirt, I couldn't think of anything but an invitation to be taken."
Shoving at the older man, Akihito climbed off his lap. "Bastard, if you think I'm going to have sex here with you, think again." He turned to walk away.
Instead of letting Akihito go like he usually did, Asami stood up and caught his hand. Akihito was mildly surprised with the yakuza's unusual actions, so much so that he didn't protest when Asami crushed his mouth onto his.
His lips were hot on Akihito's, to a point that it was almost burning.
Burning. The word registered in Akihito's partially functioning brain. He broke the kiss, gazed at the crime lord.
Asami's face looked slightly flushed, pale in comparison to his usual looks. "Asami, are you –" Akihito didn't have time to finish the question when his lover staggered slightly forward.
"Hey!" Akihito managed to steady the crime lord. He placed a hand on Asami's forehead, withdrawing it almost immediately. "Hey, you have a fever!" He said in a somewhat panicked voice.
Assisting Asami to the couch, Akihito made him sit before pacing around the office, panicked. He had only seen Asami ill once but it was Kirishima who took charge of the crime lord so Akihito hadn't experience it firsthand.
Calm down, Akihito! He scolded himself. The first logical thing is to call Kirishima. He went to Asami's desk but as he picked up the phone, he realized that he didn't know the number to Kirishima's office. The photographer reached for his phone next but it wasn't there in his pockets.
Damn it. He cursed, he must have left the phone in his backpack and the said backpack was currently with Toru. Left without a choice, he rushed out of Asami's office to the secretary department where Kirishima's office was located.
"Takaba sama, what's going on?" Kirishima asked when Akihito pushed door open.
Panting, the photographer replied, "Asami – Asami – he's –"
Kirishima need no further explanation. Following Akihito into Asami's office, the bespectacled secretary went to Asami, checking his temperature.
"Takaba sama," he said, shrugging off his black coat. "Call Suoh. Have him chauffer Kanzaki sensei here immediately."
"My phone is not with me," Akihito barely finished the sentence when Kirishima handed Asami's phone to him.
Akihito fumbled with his lover's expensive phone, searching for Suoh's number. He called the chief, relayed Kirishima's orders hurriedly before checking on his lover again. Eyes closed, Asami had a hand covering his eyes as he tried to breathe normally.
Behind him, Akihito heard the door sliding. Kirishima had opened Asami's private quarters connecting to the office; the same one Akihito was in when he was sick.
"Takaba sama, assist Asami sama to the bed."
Nodding his head, the photographer supported the crime lord to the bed inside the room. He pulled off Asami's expensive leather shoes, arranging them neatly next to the bed. With the help of Kirishima, together they stripped off Asami's coat and vest.
"I'm going to see to Asami sama's meals. Please sponge him until Kanzaki sensei is here." Kirishima bowed and left the room.
Akihito tugged at the crime lord's black tie, pulling it free. As Akihito unbuttoned Asami's white shirt, the older man caught his hands. The photographer glanced at the crime lord but he was already asleep.
Gently, Akihito withdrew his fingers and continued his task. By the time he reached Asami's belt, his cheeks flushed, remembering that he had just performed the same task the night before.
Great, now I am the big fucking pervert. The photographer scolded himself as he focused at unbuckling the belt. He decided against removing Asami's dress pants, not trusting himself to behave if he did. After covering Asami with a comforter, he sponged his lover's forehead and neck, just like Kirishima had instructed and waited for Kanzaki sensei.
Kirishima returned with a small army. Kanzaki sensei brought an assistant and two nurses while Suoh, Ando and Toru tagged behind the doctor.
"Takaba sama, if you would wait outside for a moment," Kanzaki said gently.
Toru led the photographer to Asami's leather armchair, where he plopped into it, exhausted. Akihito was thankful that Kirishima was around to take charge or he'd be lost. Asami looked so vulnerable that it almost tore his heart looking at the crime lord.
Asami had always looked formidable. With his golden penetrating eyes and a dangerous aura, the crime lord was impenetrable. Looking at his lover now, Akihito realized that even the most powerful crime lord in Japan could succumb to normal, petty illness like fever.
"Kanzaki sensei, how is Asami sama?" Akihito heard Kirishima's concern voice asking. He stood up, walking to the doctor.
The elderly doctor passed the stethoscope to his assistant. "He has high fever. Judging from his condition, I suspect he had it since last night. Asami sama's condition worsened since it went untreated."
"How long will it take for him to recover?" Kirishima asked again.
"A good night's rest will help but I suggest bed rest for two days. I've given him a jab and he should see improvements in a few hours. " He bowed and left the room, with Suoh and Ando escorting them back to the hospital.
"Takaba sama," Kirishima checked the time on his wrist watch. "It's nearly 7. You should go back to the penthouse and get some rest."
Akihito walked into the room, sitting on the bed. "No," he said. "I'll stay here."
Knowing that it would be futile to argue, Kirishima offered the boy a small smile. "Very well; I'll be here at my office if you need me," he said and left the room.
Alone in the huge office, Akihito padded around the private quarters. Asami was asleep after the medication and there was a small wet cloth on top of his forehead. The buttons on Asami's white shirt were undone, exposing his muscular chest. Unable to help himself, Akihito ran his fingers across Asami's chest, marveling at the man's well-toned body.
Akihito, stop it! As if the chest was laced with poison, Akihito kept his hand immediately. He stared at his work backpack Toru had brought in a while ago, and then turned to look at the lap top in the room.
Grabbing his bag, Akihito sat in front of the lap top. He might as well get some work done whilst he wait for the yakuza to come around.
Xx Business as Usual xX
The sound of the mouse clicking woke Asami from his rest. He blinked a few times; surprised that he was at the private quarters in his office. Already, he felt better. The headache, body ache and chills he had been experiencing since morning were no longer persistent.
Turning sideways, Asami noticed his delectable lover sitting in front of the computer. Akihito's eyes were fixed at the screen as he steadily worked on Asami's lap top. The buttons of Akihito's white shirt – no, his white shirt – were undone and the boy was stripped to his boxers as he continued working. Out of habit, Akihito bit his lower lip and cursed under his breath when he made mistakes with the photo he was editing.
Asami sat up, alerting Akihito immediately. Leaving the work he was working on, the photographer walked to the bed. "Feel better?"
When Asami did not answer, the boy came forward and placed a hand on the yakuza's forehead, gauging the temperature. "Looks like the fever had subsided," he said, relieved as he watched Asami removed his white shirt.
Damn Asami and his well-tones chest.
Looking away, Akihito crossed his arms. "Japan's most notorious crime lord getting sick; if it gets out, you'd be the laughing stock."
Asami smirked, pushing the boy on the bed, pinning him beneath him. "Then, it's lucky no one knew about it."
"You forgot that I do," Akihito grinned. "I can still sell your sickly photos to the press and make big money out of it."
Asami pushed Akihito's hands above his head, tightening his grip in the process. "If that ever happens, consider yourself living permanently in the penthouse, on my bed."
"Perverted bastard."
"Who's the pervert now? Touching me when I was unwell, all the while wearing my shirt."
The blush on the boy's cheeks deepened. "You knew!" His eyes looked away before it flared up again. "You should have told me; and I didn't wear your shirt because I wanted to. I grabbed the wrong shirt this morning!"
Asami contemplated if he should tell Akihito about the confession but since that would alert his lover that he was eavesdropping on him, Asami decided that he'd keep the little dirty secret to himself.
Perhaps he'd force a confession out of Akihito during one of their bed activities. For now, he thought as he nuzzled his lover's neck, he'll enjoy the offering bestowed in front of him.
"Kirishima – ah – he has prepared you dinner," Akihito stifled a moan as Asami slid his hand inside Akihito's black boxers.
"Later," he replied. "You look extremely lewd in my shirt, Akihito," he said, closing his hand on Akihito's hardened cock.
"Ah – you – pervert!"
The crime lord slipped a finger inside his young lover. "Since you've been such a good boy lately, let me reward you."
Using his final ounce of energy, Akihito pushed the crime lord away. "Kanzaki sensei said you need to rest. Besides –," Akihito gave his lover a cocky grin. "You're so weak right now that I doubt you can even move."
Asami smirked. He pulled the boy to the bed again. "I supposed you're right. Since we have to put our activities on hold, then I'll have you join me in bed. We'll rest for now."
Akihito allowed himself to be pulled into Asami's arms. Resting his head on Asami's shoulders, he yawned. "Don't misunderstand Asami. Once you're well enough, you have to fuck me blind."
The crime lord stroke Akihito's hair. "I'll look forward to chaining you to the bed."
The boy didn't answer. He was already fast asleep.
A/N: I received many requests to write a 'big fight' scene between Asami and Akihito. I totally suck at writing that but I'd like to challenge myself. I can't promise when I can write that scene out but I will write it!
A/N2: Thank you so much for sticking with me so far. I am humbled that so many readers are reading this little fiction of mine!
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