A/N: Hello again! I'm really, really sorry for the late updates. The past two months have been the most trying times of my life and I'm really hoping that things will return to normal soon.
Ideas from this chapter came from Zinnia_23 (Livejournal) who suggested Akihito should attend meetings at Sion and nightwyvre who suggested I should write Akihito's friends mistakenly think Asami is the cause of Akihito's injuries.
To Kusarihime and limnamae – Happy Birthday! This chapter is dedicated to both of you!
Warnings: lemons, cliffhanger
Thanks RiveReinStyx for beta-ing! You are awesome, as always (hugs)
Disclaimer: Finder Series and its notable characters are properties of Yamane Ayano. I made no profit from writing this fan fiction.
Business as Usual 28
In between a hectic schedule, Akihito managed to squeeze some time to meet his best buddies from high school. Kou and Takato had been complaining that they hadn't seen him for two months, and insisted that the photographer show his face. Five minutes would have been sufficient, according to Kou.
Apparently, they were worried if Akihito went MIA on them again; just like the time he was held captive by Fei Long in Hong Kong.
To prove that he was still very much alive and kicking, Akihito slot in an hour of his precious lunch break to meet up with at Kou's apartment.
"Ando, can you wait for me for a while? I need to see Kou and Takato," he said as the luxurious sedan pulled in front of a low cost residential area.
"Sure, Makoto can wait in the car while we see your friends."
Akihito stepped out of the vehicle. "There's no we, Ando. Just me."
"But Takaba sama, Toru san reminded me to be with you at all times." Ando protested as he got off the vehicle.
Ignoring his guard, Akihito walked up the stairs to the second floor where Kou's apartment was located. "Ando, I'm not going to jump from the building. Even Toru usually gives me privacy when I'm with Kou and Takato."
As expected, Ando gave in to his demands easily. Nodding his head, Ando announced that he would stand in front of Kou's apartment while Akihito meet-up with his friends.
Well, better than none, Akihito thought as he rapped his knuckles on the apartment door. Thank god Toru was on leave or he didn't think he'd be able to win the argument easily as the stoic, lanky guard wasn't as easily swayed as Ando, making it difficult for negotiations.
Kou opened the door, raised his hand to mutter a greeting.
"Yo, Kou," Akihito greeted and stepped inside the apartment where Takato was already waiting.
"Takato." Akihito fist bumped his friend before sitting down on the floor around the small table.
Kou came around to join them. "Akihito, we haven't seen you in two months. Where the hell were you?"
"Working."
"You sure?"
Akihito looked at his best friends. "Of course I'm sure. Where did you think was I?"
Kou and Takato looked at each other before narrowing their eyes at Akihito. "Give it to us straight, Akihito. Were you kidnapped by someone again?"
"No!" Akihito denied and felt slightly guilty. He wasn't abducted, more like he voluntarily went to Cambodia to be a decoy in Asami's plan to capture Chey Rith. He nearly lost his life, if it weren't for Toru who saved him.
"Well, if you say so, Akihito." Kou rested his elbows on the small table, looking at Akihito unconvincingly.
"Oh yeah, this came to my house," Takato said, passing a postcard to Akihito.
Akihito took the offered card and read. It was an invitation to his high school reunion party. His heart almost stopped when he noticed the location of the reunion party was near the onsen that Asami bought for him at Fukouka. He reread it again, just to be sure and nearly breathed out in relief. It wasn't his. Located near the posh onsen that he owned, it was more affordable and popular among high school students and company workers.
"When did you get this?"
"Last week. And this is your invitation." The light haired boy slid an identical card across the table.
"Why was it delivered to you?" Akihito asked as he took the card bearing his name.
"Remember glasses boy class president? He mailed me the other day, asking for your address. I don't know if I should pass Asami san's address to him so I had him mail both invitations to me."
"Thanks buddy," Akihito said gratefully.
His relationship with Asami wasn't something that he wanted the world to know. In fact the less people knew about it, the better. Akihito knew the older man was in a position of power and wealth, and that could make him a potential target by others. The last thing Akihito wanted was to put Asami in a vulnerable position because of their relationship.
Akihito flipped the card over, reading it again before keeping the card in his camera bag. "Are you guys going?"
Kou shrugged his shoulders. "I guess, I mean it has been ages since we've last seen our classmates. Plus, kaa-san is making a big stink that I haven't gone back for so long."
"Takato?" Akihito asked, sipping the offered tea.
"Yeah, I guess I'll go too. You, Akihito?" Takato directed the question back at the photographer.
"Hold on," Akihito said, rummaging his bag for his phone. "Ah, I'm good. No assignments on that day," he said cheerfully after checking the calendar.
"Great! I'll RSVP immediately!" Takato said and grabbed a pen to fill in the reply slip.
Akihito's smiling face fell when he suddenly remembered something crucial. "Shit, I forgot that I'm broke this month. That bastard Mitarai has been stealing my scoops lately, so I hardly have anything in my account!"
"You're forgetting something Akihito." Kou trailed his fingers lightly over the diamond studded phone.
"What?"
"This," the dark haired boy answered, pushing the phone towards Akihito.
"What about the phone?"
It was Takato who answered. "Pawn this and you can get your money for the trip."
Finally understood what Kou meant, Akihito grabbed his phone hastily and kept it in the bag. "Of course not!"
Kou smacked Akihito's back playfully. "Just kidding, buddy."
"OUCH!"
Normally Akihito wouldn't have yelped from the smack, but since he suffered a good beating from Koga and his gang a week ago his bruises were healing and the pain hadn't subsided.
"Hey, you okay? I didn't hit you too hard, did I?" Kou placed a hand gently on Akihito's back.
"You all right, Akihito?" Takato went to the photographer, pulled his shirt up to check for bruises. Kou moved backwards a little to help Takato.
Instead of Kou's palm print on Akihito's back, numerous healing bruises greeted them. Some were dark while others were yellowish; a sign that the bruises were almost healing.
"Akihito, your back –"
That had Akihito pull away. He tugged at his shirt hastily, trying to cover the evidence of his bruised body from his friends. "No – it's nothing."
Takato shook Akihito's shoulders gently. "That cannot be nothing! You're covered with bruises!"
Akihito forced a smile. "I – I fell down," he lied and averted his eyes.
"You don't get bruises like that from falling down," Kou countered. "You were beat up," he said flatly.
Damn it. The last thing Akihito wanted was to worry his friends over him. He hid his attack from Kou and Takato on purpose since he didn't want them to fawn over him. Standing up abruptly, the photographer grabbed his bag, ready to take his flight from his best buddies.
"You're thinking too much, Kou," he said as he moved to the front door. "Guys, I gotta go. I have an assignment in fifteen. I'll call you guys later ok?"
Takato grabbed Akihito's arm, yanking him back inside. "Akihito – " his tone softened, "—you're our best friend. If you're in trouble, we can help you."
"I'm not," Akihito reassured, pushing his friend's hand away.
"Then, how did you get those bruises? Did Asami san do that to you?" Kou challenged.
Akihito's eyes widened at the statement. "What are you talking about?"
Kou grabbed Akihito's hands. "Did he do that to you?" His tone was stronger this time.
"No, of course not!" Akihito denied hotly. He stared at his friends. Both had worry etched all over their faces. The photographer sighed. He couldn't just stay angry at his friends' baseless accusation since he would do the same if he were in their shoes.
"Look, I can assure you Asami didn't hit me or anything." Akihito patted his friends' shoulders at the same time. "You can ask Ando if you want to."
The door to the apartment opened at the moment and Ando stepped, looking concerned. "Takaba sama, I heard you raising your voice. Is everything all right?"
Akihito offered an unconvincing smile. "Yeah, we were just fooling around." He checked his wrist watch; the same one Asami bought for him on his birthday and made exaggerated expressions.
"Hey, I got to go! My assignment in court starts in ten minutes. See you guys later!" He waved and quickly escaped.
Ando, who was more concerned with the fact that Akihito was going to be late for his assignment, didn't probe further about Akihito raising his voice.
As the photographer relaxed in his seat, he sincerely hoped that his excuses were enough to satisfy Kou and Takato for the last thing he wanted was to witness a confrontation between his best buddies and Asami.
Xx Business as Usual xX
"Takato, I think Akihito's lying," Kou said as he stared at the closed door.
The light haired boy nodded in agreement. "Something isn't right." He followed Kou back into the living room. "Do you think Asami san did that to him?"
"I can't think of anyone else who could do that to Akihito." Kou sat on the carpeted floor. "I mean, Toru san and Ando san are always around him. It's unlikely that he was beaten by someone else."
"Should we contact Toru san?"
Kou shook his head. "Both of them work for Asami san. They're bound to take their employer's side."
For once, Takato looked seriously troubled. "Kou," he said in a somewhat panicked voice.
The dark haired boy stared at his best friend. "What is it?"
"Remember all those bruises on Akihito? The cut on his forehead, his fractured rib; do you think Asami san did all that?"
"Possible," Kou muttered, sharing his friend's concern.
"Then, what should we do now?"
Kou remained silent for a moment, choosing to stare at the smooth surface of his coffee table before looking up. His dark eyes narrowed, determined. "There's only one thing to do."
Takato shook his friend's shoulder. "What?"
"We'll confront Asami directly."
Xx Business as Usual xX
The next morning, Sion
"Why do I have to go to work with you?" Akihito grumbled as he stepped out from the limousine at Sion's main entrance.
Asami exited the car, buttoned his coat casually before ushering Akihito through the main door. "Your brother's proposal will be discussed at the meeting today. Don't you want to know the results?"
Akihito looked at his own dark suit and tie before looking at his lover. "Yeah, but I can always get the results from Haru-nii, you know."
"Of course," Asami answered smoothly. "But if his proposal is rejected, he will never get to know the reason for rejection."
"You are a bastard, Asami." The photographer scowled.
The walk across the foyer to the private elevator wasn't a comfortable process for Akihito. Asami's presence had the entire lobby frozen. Managers and Head of Departments rushed to greet him but the yakuza would never offer anything more than a curt nod. Akihito noticed both Kirishima and Toru had their fans too. The talented secretary had a few heads turned when he walked passed them while Toru was more popular among the young ladies.
And they'll be wondering who's the young man standing next to the great Asami Ryuichi. Akihito thought miserably as they rode up to Asami's office in silence.
The elevator stopped one floor before Asami's office and Akihito found himself ushered out of the elevator.
"We're not going to your office?"
"No," the yakuza answered, his palms outstretched.
Kirishima placed a tag on Asami's hand. Looping the tag around Akihito's neck, he adjusted the strap before neatly tucking the string into the whites of his shirt to make it more presentable.
"What's this?"
"Your ID. With it, you can access every door in Sion," the yakuza answered easily. "Don't lose it."
Akihito grabbed the tag, scrutinizing it. His unfamiliar passport photo stared right back at him. Where did the bastard get this photo?
"So, where are we going?" Akihito asked when they stopped at a huge door.
"Meeting."
Akihito managed to pull Asami aside before Kirishima pushed the door open. "You didn't say anything about me joining the meeting!" he said in a somewhat panicked voice.
Flashing his usual smirk, the yakuza answered. "How are you going to know the final results of the discussion if you're not in the meeting?"
"You planned it all along." He accused, looking at the door that separated him and the meeting room. "I don't know anything about business meeting," Akihito continued, taking a step back. "I tell you what; I'll wait at your office. You can tell me the results later."
His attempt to back off was rather unsuccessful with Toru standing right behind him. He bumped his back on Toru's torso, lost his balance and nearly fell. Toru steadied him before gently pushing him forward to Asami.
"Takaba sama, pardon me for interrupting." Kirishima pushed his spectacles up. "As the CEO of the companies, your attendance in the meeting is compulsory."
The hell? Akihito's chance in protesting was halted when Kirishima pushed the door open abruptly.
The meeting room was spacious, elegantly decorated with a long rectangular table made of wood that could at least fit twenty people. The installment of huge window panes made the meeting room looked even bigger. Eighteen black swivel chairs of the same size surrounded the table with an exception of the president's chair at the end of the table. Asami's chair was larger and taller compared to the rest, signifying the difference in power. Another president's chair, most probably Akihito's, had been placed next to Asami's.
At least seven people sat around the table and all had their heads turned when Asami made his appearance. They stood up, bowing immediately.
"Asami sama, Takaba sama." They stood up, greeted and waited for Asami to take his seat.
Akihito was pondering if he should sit next to Asami's intimidating leather chair when he realized that Toru had directed him right to the president's seat in the middle.
I can't be sitting here, he thought, panicked. He looked at Asami who ignored him to occupy the chair next to the president's seat. Kirishima took his seat beside Asami and instructed his assistant, a pretty female in a power office suit to distribute the papers.
"Takaba sama, please have a seat," Toru said.
Left without a choice, Akihito obliged. Gingerly, as though as the chair was laced with poison, he sat on it, prompting the other occupants to do the same. Akihito was expecting Toru to sit on his left but to his surprise, the guard stood next to Akihito, leaving the place for another bespectacled man.
"Ogawa at your assistance, Takaba sama," he introduced himself.
"Ogawa kun is my assistant and he handles affairs pertaining to your business interests," Kirishima introduced.
Figures. He screamed Kirishima junior.
Akihito nodded awkwardly and looked around. Only Suzuki Kenta, the middle aged man from Marukoshi looked familiar to Akihito. The rest of the attendees were mostly in their mid- thirties or early forties and they looked almost too serious as they waited for Akihito to begin.
Wait a fricking minute! Does that mean that the people in the meeting room were all managers to HIS stores?
He looked around again. Excluding Ogawa, there were seven people sitting around the table; which meant that Asami had bought him at least seven different properties. The photographer was aware of at least five - Marukoshi, The Fixer, Onsen, the boutique at Ginza and a camera shop. That meant that there were two that Akihito didn't have knowledge of.
He flashed his eyes at Asami. The yakuza took no notice of his stares. That bastard, I'll deal with him later.
Akihito noticed that the sudden change in seating arrangements caused more confusion among the meeting attendees. The change would mean a shift in power and most likely, they were unsure of who would be calling the shots in the meeting.
Thankfully, Asami waved his hand and Kirishima took it as a cue to begin.
"Gentlemen, let's begin," the secretary said and nodded at Ogawa. As expected of a man trained under Kirishima, Ogawa efficiently read the minutes of the previous meeting, followed by announcement of the agenda for the day.
"If none objected the minutes to the previous meeting, we shall begin with the first agenda on our list," Ogawa announced.
As if anyone dares to oppose the minutes, Akihito nearly snorted as he listened to the man in his late thirties present his financial reports on his clothing store at Ginza. It was difficult understanding the business jargons but he at least knew what it meant by profit margin. Seeing the man discussing about the apparel store reminded Akihito about Yuu, the boyish store assistant who flirted with Asami.
"Takaba sama, do you have anything that you wish to ask?" The manager asked once he finished presenting.
Akihito shifted in his seat. "Ah – yes, is Yuu still working there?"
Surprised by the question, the manager looked around before replying. "Yes, Takaba sama. Did Yuu do anything to upset you? Should I dismiss him?"
"No, no," Akihito said quickly before glancing at Asami. Obviously remembering the incident at the store all too well, the yakuza smirked. "I was merely asking."
The manager looked at Asami again and quickly sat when the crime lord nodded his head. As the men took turns to present their reports on Akihito's premises, the photographer remained silent, trying to take in as much as he could but it proved to be difficult since he had less to zero knowledge in finance and business.
The only thing Akihito found out was the two remaining stores that Asami had secretly bought under his name. Both were restaurants, a sushi bar and an Izakaya that Akihito favored whenever he hung out with Kou and Takato.
As the meeting went along, Akihito finally understood how nerve wracking it was to have Asami as an employer. He already knew that Asami was a difficult man to please. However, looking at how he grilled his employees made Akihito felt sorry for them. Asami grilled the managers for answers and offered them no chance to redeem themselves. He swore that the managers had their lives shortened by a few years after the meeting.
After spending an hour listening to report after report, Ogawa announced, "Now, we will move to the proposal by Asahi Liquors."
The announcement had Akihito sat up immediately.
"Takaba sama, Umeda Shinji from The Fixer." A rather flamboyant man in a black designer suit stood up. It reminded Akihito of Sudou, the manager for Draceana and wondered if all club managers shared the same characteristics.
"After going through the proposal, I do not think it is advisable to allow Asahi selling their premium beer at The Fixer."
Suzuki Kenta, a man Akihito familiarly known as the manager of Marukoshi, stood up and bowed. "I agree with Umeda san, Takaba sama, Asami sama. We pride ourselves in selling foreign beers and allowing Asahi beer to market their products at our mart could be perceived as Marukoshi dropping its standards."
"The Fixer is doing well at the present moment. There is no need for a shake-up in the marketing strategy," Umeda added.
Akihito wanted to back his brother's proposal but the lack of knowledge deterred him from uttering a single word. Helpless, he looked around, waiting for someone to voice out their disagreement.
Asami did the honors. "I've gone through the proposal; it seems plausible."
Umeda stood up again and bowed. "But Asami sama, I don't think this is wise. We cannot have a local beer tarnishing our reputation!"
What the hell? How can a locally produced beer tarnish the store's reputation? Akihito thought and raised his hand. "I'd like to say something."
"Yes, Takaba sama?"
Akihito stood up, placing both palms on the table. "I don't know much about business but I do know about what a customer needs. And speaking from a customer's point of view, I think selling the premium beer at Marukoshi and Fixer isn't a bad idea."
"But –"
"Umeda san," Akihito interrupted the manager, "Having an extra choice on the drinks menu wouldn't hurt. I know a few friends who prefer local beer because it's more affordable."
"Takaba sama, our image –," Umeda began but he was again cut off by Akihito.
"It's only a drink! And have you tasted the premium beer?" Akihito challenged.
The question had Umeda sitting down.
"Exactly," Akihito continued, "You haven't tried it, how can you say that it's not profitable? I don't know anything about image but if the beer is good, we should be able to draw the crowd in."
With Umeda sitting on his seat, speechless, Akihito turned to Suzuki.
"Suzuki san, you mentioned in your financial reports just now that the sales in Marukoshi are down by 15 percent. Isn't this a good time to allow Asahi to come in and sell their premium beer?"
The photographer continued, "Asami – Asami san–" he quickly corrected himself and watched his lover smirked. Ignoring the older man, he continued, "— had mentioned just now, the remunerations are satisfactory. Asahi is offering an exclusive deal with us, meaning the beer is only sold at Marukoshi's outlets. Consumers would have no choice but to purchase from us."
The little outburst had all the managers looking at him.
Crap. He had been so preoccupied with securing the deal for his brother that he forgot the ethical aspect about business.
Thinking that he had given far too many opinions, Akihito blushed and took his seat. He leaned closer to Asami. "What do you think?"
"You're the boss, Akihito. You can call the shots."
The photographer eyed Asami. "But I don't want to award the deal to Haru-nii just because he's my brother. If you think it's not possible, then –,"
Like a parent reprimanding his child, Asami raised his hand, stopping Akihito altogether. Beckoning Kirishima to pass him the proposal from Asahi Liquor, the crime lord flipped the file, scanning the report.
"I do not see a problem in the proposal. Besides –," Asami paused, glancing coolly at Umeda before moving to Suzuki, "— if you continue to be satisfied with the way things are running, the business growth will be stagnant in a few months."
The managers shifted uncomfortably at their seats. Umeda braved himself to answer. "Perhaps if we could conduct a trial, then –
"There is no need for trial run, Umeda," Asami interrupted harshly, "If you cannot foresee that this project can, in fact yield positive results, I believe I've hired the wrong person."
Umeda quickly offered a ninety degree bow. "My apologies, Asami sama. I will handle the project personally and ensure that it runs successfully."
"Good." The crime lord looked at Suzuki, awaiting an answer.
Suzuki was smart enough not to defy the boss. "We at Marukoshi will liaise with the representative of Asahi immediately."
As Asami nodded his head, Kirishima stood up from his seat. "Any further questions and suggestions?"
As silence fell in the meeting room, Akihito's hand shot up again.
"Yes, Takaba sama?"
Akihito smiled sheepishly. "Can we introduce time sale for Marukoshi?"
Xx Business as Usual xX
"Phew, I thought the meeting would never end!" Akihito loosened his tie the minute he walked out of the meeting room. "I don't know how you can survive every day like this," he said to Asami.
The lack of response made Akihito snort. "I should rephrase myself. I don't know how your subordinates can survive meeting with you. You're like a beast in there, ready to chew them alive for the slightest mistake."
"I'll take that as a compliment," the yakuza replied. "—but if they do their work well, they have no reason to be afraid."
"How do they keep up with your monster expectations?" Akihito asked as he followed his lover into the office. "Better yet, can your brain actually fit into so many numbers in a day? You have so many business interests."
"Those do not belong to me, Akihito," Asami pointed out bluntly.
The photographer glared at his lover. "Speaking about that, I have a bone to pick with you. Why the hell did you buy me seven properties? What do I even do with them?"
"Think of it as a side income, Akihito. When you're tired of photography, you can manage them."
Akihito whirled around and noticed that Toru and Kirishima had left Asami's office. "I won't get tired of my cameras. Besides –," Akihito grinned, "—I'm a lousy businessman, I'll probably run them into bankruptcy."
The yakuza sat on his seat, pulling the boy on his lap. Gazing his golden eyes at his lover, he said, "You're not too bad and with training, you'll make a fair businessman but –" Asami halted, trailing his finger along Akihito's jaw. " – it doesn't matter if you run them into bankruptcy or not Akihito."
"Doesn't matter? We're talking millions here, Asami."
"That would be an insignificant loss."
"Insignificant?" Akihito, who seemed to be preoccupied with other thoughts than sitting on his lover's lap, grabbed Asami's collar. "Asami, just how much money do you have? Like twenty billion yen or something?"
"A little more than that;" he said and watched Akihito's jaw dropped. "Of course if you count the assets and stock market, then it'd be –"
"—No, I don't want to know," the boy cut in, slapping a hand on his forehead. "Rich, crazy bastard," he said, gazing at his lover.
Akihito knew he was testing the waters but he had to ask, "So, what happens – say, if I stay with you just for your money."
A single eyebrow rose. "Well, are you?"
Akihito heated up immediately. "Of course not! I'm not that desperate!"
The yakuza offered his trademark smirk. "Then, that settles it." His fingers trimmed Akihito's jaw, before crushing his mouth onto Akihito's in a fierce kiss.
Resistance was futile since the bastard always gets what he wants. A tiny part of Akihito knew that he wanted this since the morning he saw Asami walked out from shower with a towel hanging loosely around his waist.
Giving in, Akihito linked his arms around the crime lord and returned the kiss. He felt Asami stripping his jacket, letting it drop to the floor before ripping the white shirt apart, sending buttons flying in all directions. Since his employee tag was hindering, Akihito removed it and flung it aside, not caring where it landed.
Akihito's voice hitched when Asami traced his fingers over the flat chest, circling them around his pert nipples before pinching it slightly.
More, he wanted to say but the words never left his mouth. Instead, he jumped at the beeping of the intercom.
Asami wasn't pleased with the intrusion. Kirishima should know better than to interrupt him when he was with Akihito. He intended to ignore the intercom but noticed that the incoming signal was private, meaning that something urgent had come up. Reluctantly, he picked up the receiver, pressing a button to disable loud speaker.
"Asami."
"I'm very sorry to disturb you sir, but Ando called from the concierge. Takaba sama's friends are here to see you. They refused to reveal the reason. What are your orders, Asami sama? Should we let them up?"
Asami looked at his lover. Akihito's white shirt was already ripped yet he tried covering his modesty with the jacket. Embarrassed with what happened just now, the photographer sat on the visitor's chair in front of him, eyes averted.
No point continuing when the boy is embarrassed, Asami mused. "Make them wait for ten minutes before sending them up," he said quietly.
"Understood, sir," the secretary murmured before ending the call.
"Akihito," Asami said when he replaced the call and watched the boy struggling to remain indifferent with what had happened.
Too embarrassed to answer, the photographer remained silent.
Standing up, Asami walked round the table and leaned against the edge of the table. "I have something urgent to see to. Do you want to take your sparring lessons with Toru now?"
That had Akihito's attention immediately. Eyes shone brightly, he smiled. "Can I?"
"Toru should be at Kirishima's office now. He can take you to the dojo."
"You have a dojo here?" Akihito asked, dumbfounded.
The yakuza smirked at the photographer's reactions. "Of course, Toru will take you there," he said and pressed a button on his intercom that linked him to Kirishima's office.
"Kirishima, send Toru to my office."
"You're seriously a rich, crazy bastard." Akihito commented when Asami ended the call. He stood up, adjusted his coat to look more presentable. Awkwardness and mortification long gone, the photographer was back to his usual self. "Oh, and I forgot to mention – a pervert too."
A thin smile graced Asami's lips. That smart mouth of his couldn't go unpunished. Yanking the photographer to him, he slid his hands behind Akihito's neck to crush their mouths together. As the boy opened his mouth to moan, Asami deepened the kiss and continued ravishing his young lover's mouth until the discreet knock came.
He stopped then, not before biting Akihito's lips gently. "Looks like you're a pervert yourself, Akihito," he said and called Toru to enter before Akihito could offer a response.
Cheeks turned crimson, Akihito flashed his hazel colored eyes at his lover. "Bastard," he muttered.
"Toru, Akihito would like to start his sparring lessons now. Escort him to level fifteen," Asami instructed the guard.
The lanky guard bowed. He offered no comment nor did he respond to Akihito's torn shirt and missing buttons. Taking a few strides into the office, the guard retrieved Akihito's employee tag near the foot of Asami's desk and looped it around Akihito's neck again.
"Your tag, Takaba sama."
The color on Akihito's cheeks went a shade darker. "Th—thanks," he muttered before moving out.
"Akihito."
The boy halted, glancing back at the yakuza questioningly.
"We'll continue later," Asami commented and watched the boy rushed out of his office, embarrassed.
The yakuza sat on his leather chair again. Expression turned cold and serious, Asami stared at the reports on his table and wondered what Akihito's friends could possibly need from him.
Judging from Akihito's reactions, Asami was positive that his lover didn't know that his friends were coming. Asami recalled reading Ando's report that Akihito stopped by Kou's place the day before and according to Ando, they were in a rather heated conversation when Akihito left the apartment.
There's only one way to find out what happened, he thought as he heard Kirishima knocked on the door.
He took his seat and crossed his hands. "Enter."
Xx Business as Usual xX
"I swear, your boss is a crazy man. Who on earth has a dojo in the office?" Akihito walked out of the elevator at level fifteen, accompanied by Toru.
"The dojo serves as a training place for new recruits, Takaba sama."
Toru swiped his own card, unlocking the main entrance and pushed the glass door wide, allowing Akihito to enter.
"You mean you were trained here before, Toru?"
"No, I didn't," the guard replied, leading the way to the entrance of the dojo. Suoh stood at the entrance in his karate uniform and black belt, overseeing the new recruits sparring.
"How come you don't have to train – woah!"
About twelve men in their karate gi stood on the wooden floor, sparring against each other. Each donned a different colored belt, showcasing the difference in levels. Slightly muscular and formidable, the men attempted to take on each other using countless offensive measures.
With Suoh barking instructions, it was clear who called the shots at the practice hall. He noticed Toru bowed before entering the dojo, so Akihito did the same, not wanting to break the proper code of conduct.
"Takaba sama," Suoh greeted, bowing a little.
Suoh's greetings had all twelve men in the hall stopped training. Lining up in a line, they bowed and greeted simultaneously. "Takaba sama."
The men greeted Akihito with such enthusiasm that one would have thought he was the master of the dojo. "H – hi," Akihito greeted nervously, returning the bow.
Suoh clapped his large hands twice and the recruits quickly moved to the sides, emptying the middle. "Takaba sama, the dojo is now available for your training."
"Thanks." Akihito looked around, then at his own slightly crumpled jacket. "Do I need to change?"
His personal guard nodded. "This way, Takaba sama."
The photographer was ushered into a private changing room. He didn't need to be told that the changing room was probably meant for Asami's personal use. After all, only the boss gets his own changing room with attached bath and shower. A small single closet, the type one would see in a baseball changing room stood at one corner. Next to it hung a huge mirror and a long bench.
He changed into the only karate uniform available, slightly surprised that it actually fitted him. The white belt, an indication for novice trainers, hung neatly next to the uniform. Unlike normal belts, this one had black letterings embroidered at the edge of the belt with Takaba, A.
It was futile asking why his belt was different from the usual plain white so he didn't even bother trying. Most likely Asami had ordered one of his many expensive tailors to produce the specially designed karate gi and belt.
He tried tying the belt and after a few frustrating, unsuccessful tries, Akihito gave up. Clutching his white uniform together, he walked out of the changing room.
"Er – I can't seem to tie it properly."
Already changed, Toru took the belt and knelt down. "Allow me, Takaba sama."
The black belt around Toru's waist was a symbol of strength and the gold emblazoned 'hachidan' on the edge signified that he had reached the eight level of the black belt. Akihito might not know much about karate but he knew the levels well enough. The hachidan wasn't usually awarded to trainees aged 35 and younger so it made Akihito curious how Toru received it.
"It's done, Takaba sama."
The photographer nodded. He followed Toru to the dojo again where the new recruits had already sat in a line at the corner, waiting for Akihito's entrance. They stood up as Toru and Akihito entered the dojo, bowing 90 degrees before sitting down. Toru returned the bow and led the photographer to the middle of the hall.
Akihito thought he heard the new recruits whispering and Toru's black hachidan belt became the topic of interest quickly. He didn't blame their excitement as it was practically unheard of to see someone so young achieving success like Toru did.
He felt embarrassed, mostly because he was the only newbie in the room who had no prior training in martial arts.
Sensing Akihito's discomfort, Toru exchanged glances with Suoh. The bulky guard walked towards his subordinates, crouched before flashing them a warning glance. "Gentlemen, I suggest you keep the comments to yourself because Asami sama would be very upset if the young boss is unhappy, you clear?" He said in a low, dangerous voice that immediately had all twelve trainees gulped, nodding their heads.
Suoh offered a smirk. "Good."
Toru turned back to Akihito. "Takaba sama, would you like to begin?"
The photographer gave an enthusiastic look. "Yeah, of course! Teach me some moves so I can kick Asami's ass."
Toru ignored the fact that the new recruits were looking at each other about the 'kicking Asami's ass' remark, choosing to focus on the boy in front of him instead. "Certainly, Takaba sama."
As Akihito took his stance, Toru shook his head. "You have to warm up or you'll injure yourself."
"You know, when you're in a situation, there isn't time to warm up," Akihito pointed out but followed Toru's warm up exercises anyway.
"When you're in the situation, that is. For lessons, it is necessary that you don't injure yourself, Takaba sama."
For about ten minutes, neither men spoke as they did a series of stretches on their neck, hands, back and legs. Akihito followed most of the exercises although stretching his back muscles proved to be a little more challenging since his injured back had yet to recover completely.
"Are you tired?" Toru asked when he noticed Akihito's movements had slowed down from the back stretching.
"Of course not! It's just a simple exercise," he denied. "So, what are we going to learn next?"
Toru stood up straight. "Move a few feet back, Takaba sama. I'll show you how the basics."
Akihito did he was told.
"The basic step of karate is straight punches. Throw the first punch with your right hand and leg forward."
"Like this?"
Toru nodded, pleased that his master was a fast learner. "Now, take a step forward by alternating your punch with your left hand."
That wasn't something Akihito couldn't handle. He did a couple more times until Toru stopped him. Toru moved towards him, placed his hand on Akihito's back, straightening his posture.
"Be careful of your back, Takaba sama." Toru moved back. "Now, put more force in your punches."
The photographer nodded. After a few more rounds, Toru instructed Akihito to stop. The boy looked at him as though he wanted to protest but he cheered up immediately when the guard announced that he'll be moving into the kicking practice.
"Oh yeah, I have been looking forward to this!" he said excitedly.
"There are many types of kicks in karate. I'll show you some basic and useful ones – please move to the side," he directed.
Akihito nearly gasped when Toru performed the kicking moves. The force and speed were so impressive that it earned an audible gasps from the new recruits.
"This is the side kick." Toru raised his heel, strike and brought the whole leg back. "This kick is slower but it is more powerful and penetrative."
Toru stood straight again. "Give it a try. After this, I'll teach you another side kick and the front kick."
Not wanting to miss the opportunity to kick Asami's ass, Akihito did as instructed. All the years running, climbing and jumping from rooftops didn't go into waste. Akihito's agility not only allowed him to balance himself during the kick; he was able to kick higher than intended.
"Maintain the height of your kick. Try not to go too high, Takaba sama. There's another kick for that."
"What's the difference?" Akihito stopped to look at Toru.
"The snap kick is less powerful compared to the side kick but it is lighter, quicker and it rises a little bit more."
Nodding his head, Akihito resumed his practice. "Hey, Toru. Did Asami know all these stuff?"
The question had all occupants in the room interested. Suoh who was still overlooking the practice smirked at the question. With exception of himself and Kirishima, Toru remained the only guard who had seen Asami practicing in his karate gi. He scanned the recruits who looked at Toru with great interest.
Ignoring the guards, Toru moved to Akihito to correct his form. "Of course. Asami sama is faster and far stronger than me, Takaba sama."
The photographer's face fell. "Does that mean I can't kick his ass anytime soon?"
The new guards exchanged stares at each other about the rude remark but Toru maintained his poker face. "Unless Asami sama willingly allows you to do so, I'm afraid you won't be able to do that for the time being."
Suoh barked out a laugh. "You really want to do that so badly?"
"Of course!" Akihito crossed his arms, looking at the chief security. "It's kinda like a vow I made to myself."
"Then, you have to train very hard, Takaba sama," Suoh replied.
"I'm up for the challenge," Akihito said enthusiastically. "Hey Toru, do you think I can train with them?"
Toru looked at the hopeful new recruits. It wasn't a bad idea but he knew Asami wouldn't appreciate it if Akihito were to be trained by amateurs. He shook his head. "No, not yet. It's best to do it with me."
"But –," Toru said as he watched Akihito bit his lip in disappointment, " – after this, you can start practicing the moves I taught you on me."
"Yeah, that'd be cool!" Akihito smiled. "Hey, can you practice with Suoh or with one of guards later?"
Again, the hopeful faces of the guards. This time, Toru nodded his head and watched the smile on Akihito's face widened.
Xx Business as Usual xX
"Kou, are you absolutely sure about this?"
Kou looked at the door that connected Asami Ryuichi's office before looking at his best friend. Takato's eyebrow furrowed with worry. Truthfully, he was beginning to regret the decision to confront Asami about Akihito's injuries. He had his insecurities about the man. Akihito had never mentioned things about Asami in front of them but Kou was no fool. Even if he couldn't dig anything about the businessman, he knew Asami wasn't someone ordinary.
When they were travelling to Sion in the public bus, Kou almost backed off but the thought that Akihito was involved in some sort sadistic play got him fired up to meet Asami Ryuichi. He understood Takato's uneasiness and he can damn well say that he shared the same feeling.
"Yeah, Akihito is our best buddy. If he's involved in something crazy, we got to help him," Kou replied, attempting to coax Takato into meeting Asami.
"I know, I'm just nervous."
Kou placed a hand on Takato's shoulder. "Don't worry, we're not accusing or anything; we're only asking."
"What if it's true? What are we going to do next?"
Kou admitted that he had never thought about that. He had been so preoccupied about confronting Asami that he failed to think what to do next.
"I don't know," the dark haired boy admitted. "But since we've come this far, we might as well confront him."
Kirishima came from behind, clearing his throat discreetly. "Kou kun, Takato kun, Asami sama will see you now."
For a lack of a better response, the boys nodded. The secretary knocked on the door twice before a entering. Stepping aside, Kirishima beckoned Kou and Takato to enter.
The size of the office was enough to take Kou's breath away but the man sitting behind the huge desk stopped him from his gawking. Asami's golden eyes stared hard right back at Kou and it made him question his decision to come to Sion again. Beside him, Takato trembled slightly, sharing Kou's similar sentiments about Asami.
"Gentlemen, what can I do for you today?"
The deep, baritone voice had Kou flinched. He took the visitor's seat in front of Asami, telling his pulsing heart to calm down. Takato nudged his arm, silently pleading him to answer the question.
"I'm sorry to disturb you at your office, Asami san," Kou began.
Asami raised his hand and Kirishima immediately placed a cigarette in between his fingers before lighting it up. "I presumed your matters are important enough to see me here at my office?" he asked coolly, not bothering to hide his irritation.
Kou nodded. "Akihito doesn't know we're here."
"I'm aware of that."
The boys exchanged uncertain glances.
"Well?" Asami's eyebrow rose, impatient.
Kou braved himself to speak up. "We met Akihito yesterday at my apartment."
The golden eyes showed no response. "And?"
"While we were talking about our high school reunion, we noticed that there marks on Akihito's back."
This time, Asami sat forward, showing interest.
Kou continued before he chickened out. Hands fisted by his sides, he stared right at Asami's eyes. "We wanted to know if you've been beating Akihito up."
Xx Business as Usual xX
Kirishima's perfect composure nearly faltered at Kou's accusations. Quickly, he glanced at his boss. Asami clearly did not show any emotion to the boys' claims but the secretary sensed he wasn't pleased with them.
As Asami's personal secretary, he knew just how much effort his boss put to keep Akihito safe from harm. And if unexpected dangers happened to the photographer, the person responsible for Akihito's injuries always faced painful consequences. Only two fortunate ones were allowed to live so far. Akihito's photography nemesis, Ishida Atsuki and Koga Takeru, whom they had interrogated a week earlier at the Izu warehouse.
Though Kirishima couldn't blame Akihito's friends for the misunderstanding, he felt a sense of annoyance. How dare they think that Asami sama had caused Akihito harm when he had been protecting him all these while?
If only they knew what Asami sama did to Takaba sama's attackers, Kirishima thought as he stared at Kou's determined face.
"Is that what Akihito told you?" Asami asked, taking a drag of his cigarette.
Both boys shifted at their seats, uneasy. "Not really. Akihito said he fell down. But –," Kou looked at Asami again. " – we know he's lying."
Takato braved himself to speak. "Ye – yeah, the marks on his body didn't match his explanation. We found huge shoe marks on his back. Most of the bruises had faded but we're not stupid."
When Asami didn't answer, Kou pushed again. "So, it's true? That you've been engaging some sort of sadistic play with Akihito?"
The golden eyes flashed, shifted back to Kou's face. Crushing his cigarette on the ashtray, Asami spoke, "Kou kun, I suggest you keep the accusation to yourself. I did not hit Akihito."
Kirishima knew that the cool, icy tone didn't sound good. He had an idea what was running through his boss's mind. Denying the accusations without concrete evidence wouldn't pacify Akihito's friends but telling the truth wouldn't work either.
Bending down slightly, Kirishima spoke in a low voice. "Asami sama, should we –"
Asami held his hand up, cutting Kirishima off. Knowing better than to push it, he straightened his body again.
"Then, why were there marks on his body?" Kou challenged. "A few months ago, he had bruises on his forehead and a fractured rib. Was that also your doing?"
"We support Akihito's decision to stay with you Asami san, but we won't stay quiet and pretend that everything is fine with him when he's not," Takato added.
Asami rested his elbows on his tables – thinking, formulating his thoughts. Finally he stared hard at Akihito's friends. "Akihito's injuries are caused by a scuffle he had in the park ten days ago. He spent a night in the police station on suspicion on gang fights."
Kou gasped and Kirishima took the chance to speak. "Takaba sama went out without his guard and we spent the entire night looking for him until we were informed that he was held by the police."
Kou and Takato looked at each other. Speechless by what they had just heard, the duo remained silent, waiting for Asami to continue.
"I reiterated this many times but since this is the first time we've spoken, I will say this," Asami said, his tone cool. "Akihito belongs to me. I did not hit Akihito – and never will."
"What – what about the fractured ribs and forehead?" Kou probed further.
"You are his best friends. You should know the nature of his job. His scoops and stake-outs often land him in a lot of unfortunate incidents," the yakuza replied.
Kirishima dared himself to speak. "That's why Toru and Ando were hired – to keep him safe. Kou kun, Takato kun, I'm sure you're aware of Takaba sama's passion in getting dangerous scoops."
This time, Kou and Takato looked slightly guilty. "We—we're aware of that," Kou mumbled.
"That Akihito, why didn't he tell us?" Takato questioned aloud.
It was Kou who answered. "He has always been like that. All I know is I'll strangle him the next time I see him. Remember the time we threatened to strip him bare and take his naked photos after he disappeared to Hong Kong?"
Asami's single eyebrow arched at the declaration.
Kou looked at Asami. "It was then he told us about his relationship with you. Long haired Chinese dude sorta kidnap him to Hong Kong and made him work there until you rescued him."
So, Akihito didn't tell them the truth about his kidnapping. Asami thought as he continued to gaze at his lover's friends. He didn't add anything to the story, choosing to remain silent.
Embarrassed that they had been barking up the wrong tree, Kou and Takato's cheeks went red. They stood up, bowing before the crime lord. "We're sorry for the misunderstanding, Asami san."
"It's a relief that the misunderstanding has been cleared," Kirishima offered.
The boys bowed again. "We shall take our leave," Kou announced and walked out of the room, all the while discussing with Takato the creative ways they would deal with Akihito when they see him.
Xx Business as Usual xX
"That – was unexpected, Asami sama."
Asami agreed. "Of all the reasons, I did not expect this."
Moving to the edge of Asami's desk, the secretary began arranging the folders on the desk. "Should we inform Takaba sama about this?"
"No, but copy Toru what had happened just now – And Kirishima?"
"Yes, sir?"
"Get Toru to find out more about the high school reunion that Akihito's friends mentioned."
Kirishima bowed. "Understood sir."
Asami's personal phone vibrated just then and the crime lord's eyebrow rose when he checked the caller.
Baishe – Fei Long
"Asami," he answered.
"Asami, I've received your mail from your subordinate about the Macau dealer named Wu. Is it true?" Fei Long said, annoyed.
Asami leaned back, signaled his secretary for a brandy. "I interrogated one of the rats who has been keeping large amount of cocaine in his night club; his selling of it at a low price is affecting my business."
"And the dealer named Wu? How did he come into this?"
Asami took the offered brandy, sipped on it a little. "I'm surprised you need to ask, Fei Long. The rat confessed that Wu had been selling the stock of cocaine at a lower rate. His motive is to take over your spot."
"Is your information trustable?"
Asami's eyebrows narrowed as annoyance took over. "Where I get my source is the least of your concerns, Fei Long. The said cocaine has been obtained and it is now sitting in one of my warehouses."
For a moment, Fei Long remained silent. "Why are you informing me, Asami?" he asked quietly.
"I care less for Wu's intentions but his actions are causing me to lose a small fortune –," Asami stated before his expression turned dark. "—you're getting too carefree, Fei Long. Hold that leash tighter around your dogs or Baishe will be crushed right under your nose before you know it."
"You don't have to remind me," Fei Long growled, displeased with Asami's bluntness. "I'll do some digging on my own. Meantime, I trust that you will crush all insignificant individuals selling Wu's goods?"
The crime lord leaned against his leather chair. "I will handle my territory. It's the least of your concerns."
"Until next time, Asami," Fei Long nearly growled before ending the call.
"I gather Fei Long wasn't too happy with the information I've mailed him?" Kirishima asked pleasantly, topping up his boss's brandy.
The yakuza downed the glass. "Apart from his pride, nothing is bruised."
"Sir, what is the next plan?"
"Track down dealers selling Wu's goods, Kirishima. Remind them the consequences of crossing paths with me," Asami ordered. He stood up, buttoning his coat.
Kirishima moved to the door, opening it for Asami to exit. "Understood, Asami sama."
Asami entered the private elevator and ordered Kirishima to press level fifteen. He checked the time and noticed an hour had gone by since Akihito had begun his training. The meeting between Akihito's friends had taken longer than he had anticipated and he hoped his lover would still be at the dojo, training.
After Akihito's near death experience at Sion the last time, Asami had ordered the entire building to be CCTV equipped. The security system had been changed for tighter security and Toru had orders to stay with Akihito at all times during his visits at Sion.
"Level fifteen, sir," Kirishima announced, breaking Asami's thoughts.
Nodding his head, he walked into the training room and saw Akihito practicing his punches and side-kicks with Toru. The lanky guard held practice pads, allowing the photographer to hit the pads as hard as he could.
Akihito had the talents. Only an hour into practicing, he was already able to punch and kick steadily. His stamina needed improvement, so was his punches but with regular practice, the boy could go further.
He walked into the dojo. Suoh, Ando and the new recruits were so mesmerized with Akihito's practice that they didn't notice his presence. It wasn't until Kirishima patted Suoh's shoulder that the bulky guard realized that they had company.
Suoh quickly offered his salutation. "Asami sama."
Akihito stopped his kicks the minute he heard Asami's name. Breathing heavily from the exercise, the boy grinned. "Checking on me, Asami?"
The new recruits scrambled to the feet, hardly believing their eyes. As new recruits, they had yet to meet even Kirishima, let alone the big boss. To have the boss and all four top guards in the training hall was a rare privilege. They lined up in a line, bowing ninety degrees. "Asami sama!" They greeted loudly.
Asami nodded his head curtly before stepping into the dojo. "How's your training?"
His lover smiled cheekily. "Good, very soon I'll be able to kick your ass." He wiped off the sweat on his forehead. "Why don't you get change and try me?"
The provocation was daring yet seductive in a way that Asami couldn't comprehend. He smirked, "Let's play, Akihito," he said before turning to Kirishima. "Get my gi ready."
Kirishima bowed and the dojo broke into excitement. Even Suoh, Ando and Toru were surprised with Asami's declaration. Toru bowed before moving to the front to stand beside Suoh and Ando.
Emerging from his private changing room minutes later, Akihito nearly gasped when he noticed the juudan lettering in gold on his belt. Realizing his lover's nervousness, the yakuza couldn't resist asking, "Nervous, Akihito?"
The fiery eyes flashed at him. "Never!"
Asami moved to the center of the dojo, standing perfectly still. "Come."
Akihito licked his lips and charged. The boy had the agility but as a novice, Akihito wasn't his match. The moves were so basic, so predictable that Asami managed to grab hold of the boy within seconds and flipped him down on the soft flooring, taking care not to injure his back.
Unwilling to admit defeat, the photographer stood up. "Again."
That was what Asami liked about Akihito; his eagerness to play with fire. He had to give points for Akihito's daringness despite knowing that he'd never win. After spending several moves dodging his lover, he decided it was time to end the training. He attacked with a straight punch, stopping just before his fist touched his lover's face.
Using a cliché defensive mode, the boy raised both hands up to cover his face, giving Asami an open area for another attack. He grabbed the boy and flipped him again. As Akihito landed on his back on the soft flooring, Asami moved to the back and secured him with a chokehold.
"You lose, Akihito."
Despite Asami's had his arms around Akihito's neck, he didn't place emphasis on the strength. To be exact, the crime lord merely looped his arm around Akihito's neck casually, preventing asphyxiation.
"Bastard," Akihito muttered softly, staring at the yakuza with his defiant hazel eyes.
Those strong willed eyes never failed to arouse him. Feeling his boxers tightened under the uniform, Asami released his lover and helped him stand up. "Go shower."
Too tired to argue after the long training, his lover nodded his head. He waved at the recruits, mumbled his thanks to Toru before heading to the private changing room.
"Toru, if your arm is all better, you can spar with Suoh or Ando," Asami ordered before joining Akihito in the changing room.
The shower was already running when Asami stepped into the changing room. The crime lord took one look at the boy's silhouette against the tinted glass and he was rock hard. They were interrupted earlier in his office and now after leaving strict instructions at his secretary that he was not to be disturbed; Asami intended to take his lover right there and then, in the cramped shower room.
Oblivious to Asami's presence, the photographer hummed as he rinsed his shampooed hair, washing his face as he did. The hands around his waist made him jumped. Squinting an eye open, he only had the chance to mumble 'Asami' before the crime lord crushed their mouths together.
Sliding his hands behind Akihito's neck, Asami held him firm as he continued to ravage his young lover's mouth. He backed the boy against the wall so that Akihito was trapped between the wall and his body.
He bent his head slightly to Akihito's nipples and gently licked the bud before sucking on it. His lover was like a drug, addictive once tasted. He couldn't get enough of Akihito's sensitive nipples that made the boy quiver whenever he licked them; couldn't get enough of the flat abdomen and lean muscles of his body.
Gently biting on Akihito's nipples, the yakuza watched Akihito threw his head back to moan.
Asami trailed his fingers down Akihito's back, stopping at the crack of his butt. The soap behind his back hadn't completely washed off, providing lubrication for Asami to slide his fingers inside Akihito.
"Oh god, Ryuichi!"
The cries were soft and seductive; and Asami's blood immediately leaped with lust. Wanting to pleasure his lover before taking him, Asami's mouth left the swollen nipples to kneel down before his lover.
"Ryu – ah!" Akihito's knees nearly gave way when Asami took the hardened length inside his mouth. Asami worked the length steadily, knowing exactly how the boy liked to be pleasured. He inserted another finger inside Akihito, fingering the boy as he continued sucking. The combination of having his rear and front pleasured proved to be too much for the photographer. He came a minute later, screaming Asami's given name.
"Like it, Akihito?" Asami stood up, raising Akihito's knee. He grabbed Akihito's butt, spreading it wide.
"Pervert – "
It was as far as he got before Asami drove his throbbing cock inside Akihito.
Akihito threw his head back, his breath sobbed out and called Asami's name repeatedly as he took in each violent thrust.
Left only a leg to support himself, Akihito held onto Asami to balance himself as the older man continued to fuck him senseless. Asami hoisted Akihito's leg up, spreading it slightly further to provide better access.
"Ah, Ryuichi!" Clinging to the older man, he whispered, "Please."
Asami wasn't quite sure what his lover was begging him for but he had a good idea what he wanted so he drove into Akihito harder, faster; giving the boy exactly what he needed. With a strong grip, Asami held Akihito's thigh firm to keep him from moving as he continued to plunge upwards, priming his young lover's body for yet another powerful climax.
He bent slightly forward, licking the nape of Akihito's neck. His free hand travelled down to grip on Akihito's hardened cock once more. Giving it a few hard strokes, he whispered, "Come for me, Akihito."
As if by his command, the boy came once again; clawing his back in the midst of the mind numbing orgasm. Watching his lover's powerful release made Asami's own cock twitched and before long, he found his own release. Giving the boy a few powerful thrusts, he spilled himself inside Akihito.
After spending the day in a meeting, followed by sparring and a mind blowing sex, Akihito was completely drained. Slumping onto Asami, he fell asleep.
Xx Business as Usual xX
The next day, Kou's apartment
At Kou's requests for an urgent meet up to discuss the onsen trip, Akihito found himself at the doorstep of his best friend's apartment again. His friends originally requested to see him last night but Akihito was completely wasted after the vigorous training and sex.
Hell, he couldn't even remember what had happened after the shower. His last memory was Asami fucking him senseless to unconsciousness in the cramped shower room and everything went hazy after that. By the time he regained his consciousness, he was already lying on the bed in Asami's office.
Akihito learned from Toru that Asami carried him out of the changing room in the midst of a sparring session between Suoh and Toru. Just the thought that the new recruits witnessing his unconscious form was enough to send colors flooding his cheeks. It was mortifying but there was nothing Akihito could do to rectify the situation.
The photographer gritted his teeth. If there was anyone to blame, it should be Asami. That bastard shouldn't have cornered him in the cramped shower room!
Damn him and his insane sexual urges!
"Takaba sama, are you all right?"
Akihito gave a backward glance. "Yeah, I was just thinking about stuff," he muttered, pressing the doorbell.
The door swung open immediately with Kou and Takato standing at the door side by side. Sensing something wasn't quite right with his best friends for they both looked displeased, Akihito waved his hand in front of them nervously.
"Er – guys?"
"AKIHITO!" Kou and Takato yelled simultaneously before dragging him inside the apartment. Akihito sought Toru's help but his personal guard merely arranged his shoes at the genkan before calmly walking inside the apartment.
Kou pushed Akihito on the carpeted floor in the sitting area before straddling him. "Akihito, you should have told us about the scuffle in the park!"
Akihito blinked his eyes. "Huh? How did you know about that?"
Takato pushed Kou away to straddle Akihito. "If you were honest about it when we asked you about your injuries, we wouldn't have to confront Asami san about it!"
"WHAT?" Akihito pushed Takato away and struggled to sit up. "What the hell happened? When did you see the bastard? How?" he spewed out the questions.
Kou went behind Akihito, looped his arm around Akihito's neck, strangling him. "You dared to ask, Takaba Akihito?" He loosened his grip when Akihito started patting his arm for air. "You lied when we asked you what happened. What do you expect us to think?"
Akihito wriggled out of Kou's chokehold. He moved towards Toru, took cover behind the guard's back.
"When did you meet up with Asami?"
Calmer now, Kou crossed his hands across his chest. "Yesterday. Takato and I confronted him at his office." He shot daggers at Akihito. "So, you can imagine how embarrassing it was for us when we found out the truth about your injuries."
Takato grabbed Akihito's arm, pulling him away from Toru.
"Yesterday? But I was at Sion yesterday! When –"
" – you were at the dojo, Takaba sama," Toru pointed out.
Made to sit on the carpeted floor again, Akihito looked at his friends guiltily. "Sorry guys, I should have told you the truth. Then you wouldn't have to confront Asami."
Akihito was expecting a rant from Kou and Takato but nothing prepared him for this. Their usual smiling faces showed disappointment and it made Akihito felt like a total jerk for being the cause of their unhappiness.
"Akihito," Takato's voice was barely audible. "We know you don't want to worry us with your troubles but we're your friends."
"And we care about you, just as you cared about us," Kou added, punching Akihito's arm gently.
Akihito moved to sit in between Kou and Takato. Draping his arm around his best friends, he whispered, "Sorry guys, my bad."
Kou offered a grin before smacking Akihito's hand away. "Now that you know, don't keep secrets from us again or we'll seriously strip you naked and take compromising photographs of you."
"And we'll sell them to Asami san," Takato said, brushing Akihito's arm away.
"Guys!" Akihito pleaded playfully but one look at his friends told Akihito that they were probably serious.
"Now that we've cleared that up, we want to talk to you about the onsen trip," Kou said, shifting his seat for more room.
"What about it?" Akihito grabbed a cushion from the couch and placed it on his lap.
"Kou and I are planning to buy bus tickets back to Fukouka," Takato said, pulling out the bus schedule from his bag to show Akihito. "We wanted to take the bullet train but the tickets are pretty expensive. Besides, we thought of saving the travel expenses to pay for our stay at the onsen."
The distance from Tokyo to Fukouka took roughly fourteen hours by bus and whilst it wasn't a great way to travel, it was the most affordable means. Akihito grimaced at the thought that he had to spend more than half a day on road but he agreed that they lacked options.
Akihito passed the paper back to Takato again. "Count me in."
Kou nodded his head. "The reunion is on Saturday so we'll leave a day earlier."
"Excuse me, Takaba sama," Toru interrupted.
All heads turned to the lanky guard at the corner. Toru moved to the coffee table, occupying the empty seat next to Takato. He bowed politely.
"Pardon me for interrupting, Takaba sama," he said and scanned the boys' confused reactions before continuing. "Asami sama has instructed that you will travel to Fukouka in his private plane on the day of your choice. The invitation is extended to Kou san and Takato san."
As Kou and Takato's eyes widened in shock, Akihito sprung up from his seat. "WHAT?"
Xx Business as Usual chapter 28- owari xX
Karate gi – karate uniform.
A/N: Sorry about the cliffhanger! The next chapter is based on Lucifiric's (AO3) request. She suggesed that I write Akihito attending his high school reunion. I hope you're interested. (inserts smiley face)
A/N 2: I have to apologize if I have described the karate moves incorrectly. I don't know much about martial arts so I googled the karate moves. I also like to clarify that the kyuudan and juudan (ninth and tenth level) of the karate black belt are not awarded to anyone below the age of 40 or 50. I merely wanted to make Asami and Toru a little more god-like. (fangirling too much here)
Again, thank you so much for all your favorites, follows and reviews! To the following reviewers: larasgee, CassieFujho12, Senji Ouki, gacktfan2, ixxxmissxxxu, Rabby-chan, Nikkie23534, wintersubaki, ukkychan, dead feather, lola1201, serenty82, Jessieklove, FanofBellaandEdward, pink frozen rose, finderlove, dragonchildyuki, Pigyz-kun, Mad301, raindropdew, Coolcat Prime, kisekiii, Princess Rayen, Absalon95, Ria Everwood, JackFrost14, Xxsakurachan97, Fayre Sholeh, sparkling red, Pureblood-Uchiha, SageSapis, HotYaoiGirl89, Yunshi Himura, Sanz0girl, FanficLover577, yui eiri, Ruevedette, akiasami, Cha, Tokyo-shouuls, Dimensional Roamer, Kichou, YaoiMom, addyliciousyaoi, gab29, Kunoichi of the Moonlit Night, Pariya, Chaozsama, princessugar, EYKFAN, Kenstergirl12, hellion-Hound, topy, Windying, the gorgeousAsami, Paulie MickeyJ, Ryukei, Suspicious Crow, seraph02, Ness, lostsoul072, yukino76, Sezthekitty, Rewinsan, StrayDogHowling028, NarutopokeeAurorafan, Yayoi, Thyrana, Adrenalin-Jess, FeliLud and 4 guests – Honto ni arigatou gozaimasu!