A/N: By the time you read this, I'm probably on my way to Tokyo, Japan for holidays. I wanted to finish this chapter before I go so if you feel this chapter is a little too rushed, I sincerely apologize for that. Also, I'm really sorry for not replying to your reviews and pms. I promise I will do so when I come back from Japan!
Thank you so much, Rein for editing my work! You were so accommodating and I felt truly felt bad for rushing you to finish the edits. But just so you know, you're awesome!
Disclaimer: Finder series are properties of Yamane Ayano sensei. I gain nothing from writing this fiction except sleepless nights and reviews (which I cherished dearly).
Business as Usual
"Asami sama, we're here," Suoh announced from the front passenger seat as the limousine pulled into the curb of a nightclub in Kabuki-Cho. The red light district was well known for hosts and hostesses roaming the streets after sun down, enticing customers into their establishments.
"Toru, who is at the penthouse with Akihito?" Asami asked as he put on his gloves.
Seated across him in the limousine, the lanky guard bowed. "I have placed Kanda and Ando in charge, sir. They reported to me five minutes ago that Takaba sama was asleep in the master bedroom."
Asami smirked. It was unlikely that the boy could get up after three consecutive rounds of sex. Asami had wanted to go easy on his lover, knowing that he had an early assignment the following day but he couldn't risk Akihito following him, especially knowing what he was about to do in a moment.
Sakazaki. Asami thought as he stepped out from the limousine. He looked at the signboard with cheap blinking neon lights before staring at his men guarding the door. The club was closed tonight and Asami took the chance to have his men storm inside the building to apprehend the owner.
Sakazaki was brave enough to brag around that he had Asami's little pet performed oral for him in his office in exchange for information. Sakazaki's desire to boast his achievements backfired and the men he bragged to turned out to be working for Asami. Kirishima confirmed his story by hacking into Sakazaki's office video camera and the video of Akihito performing an oral on the man was recorded crystal clear on tape. Added that Sakazaki's video was equipped with audio, Asami heard every word that took place in the cramped office.
The image of his young lover kneeling in front of a smug Sakazaki, sucking his pathetic excuse of a dick, made Asami's blood boil. Contrary to Asami's image of Akihito pleasuring him during their lovemaking, the boy looked disgusted and tried his hardest to finish the job without puking.
It's time for Sakazaki to face the music.
Kirishima opened the door leading to the office, stepped aside to allow Asami to enter. Sakazaki knelt on the same carpeted floor where Akihito knelt, his hands bound behind his back. His men discarded Sakazaki's white coat, leaving him in his colorful shirt with the top three buttons undone. The slightly swollen lips and messy hair indicated that he put up a good fight when the guards subdued him moments ago.
Sakazaki's eyes widened when he saw Asami. It was obvious that Asami was the last person he expected to see in his office.
"Asami Ryuichi."
"So you know me."
Sakazaki shivered slightly.
Asami took his seat on the long couch where Akihito serviced Sakazaki and accepted a cigarette from Kirishima. "I heard strange rumors, Sakazaki," Asami began after he took his first drag.
Sakazaki's eyes averted from the crime lord as he took a nervous laugh. "Wh—what rumors?"
"That you had my little pet service you in exchange for information."
The intensity of Asami's eyes made Sakazaki trembled. "Re – really? It must be a mistake. I don't know what you're talking about."
The crime lord took another drag of his cigarette before glancing sideways at Kirishima.
The experienced secretary took two steps forward, dragged Sakazaki to the Asami's feet. Grabbing his hair, Kirishima yanked his head backwards, arching his throat at the crime lord.
"You know exactly who and what I'm talking about," Asami replied as he crushed his cigarette on Sakazaki's throat.
The man grunted in response, his face muscles tightened from the heat.
"I admire your bravery," Asami continued, passing the cigarette butt to Suoh before leaning against the couch. "You knew who Takaba belongs to yet you had the guts to blackmail him."
Kirishima slammed his head down on the floor, just next to Asami's feet.
"I – didn't! He came to me voluntarily. I tried stopping him but he was eager to – arg!" he halted when Suoh moved forward to kick him sideways on his stomach.
"Tell another lie and I'll break your leg," Suoh growled before bowing at his employer. "My apologies, sir."
Asami waved his hand and the bulky guard stepped aside. He watched Sakazaki curled in fetal position, groaning in pain. "You have an interesting choice of words, Sakazaki kun. If you call this voluntarily, then I have to redefine the word."
At the nod of his head, Toru stepped forward and dragged him up to a standing position. Kirishima stepped forward and shoved the tablet at Sakazaki's face before pressing the play button.
Sakazaki's voice rang out clearly in the quiet office, detailing the conversation between Akihito and him. Kirishima paused the video when Akihito knelt down in front of Sakazaki, knowing his boss couldn't care watching Akihito performing sexual favors on another man for the second time.
Asami stood up, retrieved his gun from his shoulder.
At the sight of the gun, Sakazaki's eyes widened. "Wa—wait, there must be some mistake. It isn't what it seems."
"It is what it seems," Asami replied, pointing the gun at Sakazaki's forehead.
"Please, I'm sorry. It was a mistake! I swear I will not go near Takaba again!"
Asami kept his gun, and Sakazaki's gave a breath of relief. His relief was short-lived when he noticed Asami curved a thin, dangerous smile.
"Death is so easy, Sakazaki. So I will not give you the pleasure of dying."
"Wait, please listen to me. I'll work for you. I have connections with the underworld gangs and –,"
Kirishima stepped forward, kneed Sakazaki on his gut. The act had the man fall onto his knees, his eyes teary from the attack. With his hands bound, Sakazaki could only bite his lip as he waited for the pain to pass. The secretary crouched, grabbed a fist of the man's hair, yanking it up.
"Your connections are worthless because Asami sama is already ruling it," he said and slammed Sakazaki's head hard on the ground, face first.
"My – my nose!"
Hardly sympathetic, Kirishima rolled Sakazaki to his back and pinched the bloody nose.
Sakazaki screams were music to Asami's ears.
"No, please! Oh god, stop!"
At Asami's approval, Kirishima released the man.
Asami crouched in front of the man, took out his gun again and shoved it beneath Sakazaki's neck. "Tell me, how was Takaba's skills?"
Sakazaki stared at the gun; his mind battling for a suitable answer. Finally, he nodded. "The – the best."
Asami trailed his gun past his torso and stopped when he reached the bulge between Sakazaki's legs. "Like you said, he had training."
"Please, no."
"And it must be fun thrusting into my precious little boy's mouth. It was exciting, was it not?" the crime lord asked, reiterating every word Sakazaki said to Akihito. "The picture you took to commemorate the moment—"He paused to add the silencer to the gun before releasing the safety catch. "— where is it?"
The blood from Sakazaki's nose dripped into his mouth and the man nearly choked when he divulged the location. "In – in –the second drawer of the cabinet."
Without waiting for his orders, Toru began to pull the drawers open and flipped through numerous files. He found the picture under two minutes in a folder named Takaba Akihito. Kirishima sat behind Sakazaki's desk, checking his computer for softcopies of the recording.
"Asami sama." Toru passed the photograph to the crime lord.
"Sir, I've erased the recording from the computer," Kirishima announced shortly.
"I've done what you asked. Please let me go," Sakazaki sobbed.
Ignoring the man, Asami stood up and took his seat again. If Sakazaki thought he was about to escape Asami's wrath with a broken nose, he was dead wrong.
"Toru," the crime lord called and the lanky guard stepped forward. Accepting the long hunting knife from Kirishima, he passed the weapon to the lanky guard.
"Strip him naked from waist down and slice his dick off."
Facing his worst nightmare, the bar owner scrambled to his feet and tried to make a run. His foolish attempts were foiled when Suoh grabbed him easily and pushed him on the carpet floor, holding him down.
"Asami, please don't!" he pleaded as Toru pulled his pants down to his ankles. "I'll do anything! I swear!"
"You think you can defile my property and walk away?" Asami narrowed his eyes, his voice was ice. "You forgot who you're playing fire with, Sakazaki."
"Please -"
"Toru, do it."
"No – no!"
Kirishima moved in to hold Sakazaki's legs in place while Suoh gagged his mouth to prevent him from screaming too loudly.
As Toru rolled up his sleeves, Sakazaki's began to sob uncontrollably. The gag piped down his screams when Toru carried out his given task. It wasn't as satisfying as hearing Sakazaki horrified screams but nevertheless, Asami enjoyed it all the same.
Xx Business as Usual xX
"Sir, why didn't you dispose him?"
Asami looked up from the five-yen coin that Akihito gave him at the beach. "For a man of his pride and ego, turning him into a eunuch is as good as death. Besides, I need him alive enough to spread the rumors around."
"Rumors?" Kirishima asked.
"There are rumors circling around about using Akihito to bring me down. Sakazaki will be set as a reminder to those who dares to cross paths with me."
"Do you need me to look into this?"
Asami slipped the coin back into his pocket. "It isn't necessary," he said before turning to Toru sitting across him. "Tighten security around Akihito. He's not to be left alone at all times."
Toru bowed. "Understood, sir."
Xx Business as Usual xX
"Day two out of three," Akihito grumbled as he trailed behind Asami into the penthouse. After accompanying Asami to Sion for the first time, Akihito took a three-week break, giving the excuse that he was a camera man first and should prioritize his work over unimportant matters – like his business for example.
To be fair, he did check with Suzuki, the manager of Marukoshi for the progress of the upscale mart. He threw around a few ideas which got Suzuki's thinking cap running.
"You have one more day."
Akihito slumped on the couch, removing his tie. "Don't remind me, I don't even know why you insisted I go to work with you.—" He discarded his suit, tossing the expensive garment aside carelessly and eyed his lover. "—aside from the obvious reasons that you wanted me to play secretarial sex with you."
"You seduced me," the yakuza reminded, sitting on the couch next to Akihito.
Being reminded of how wanton he had behaved in front of Asami made Akihito's cheeks turned crimson. To make matters more mortifying, he actually confessed to Asami in the limousine. No wonder the bastard lover of his looked smug these days.
"That's sort of a repayment. I'm too broke to buy you a decent gift," he defended, turning on the flat screen television.
Asami did not immediately reply. His silence did not go unnoticed by Akihito. Shifting closer to the older man, the photographer intended to ask what was wrong when Asami spoke,
"Was it the same as Sakazaki? You were too broke that you had to service him for information?"
Akihito dropped the remote control. "How—how did you know that?"
"I have my connections."
His voice was cool and calm but Akihito knew better. Asami was very displeased. He remained silent for a while, unsure how he should proceed when Asami spoke again.
"Give me a reason."
Akihito bit his lip. For months, he managed to keep the secret safe with him, choosing to avoid the topic whenever Asami brought it up. Asami did ask him how he obtained the information but he averted the question and changed topic as soon as he could. Thankfully, Asami wasn't a man with many words so he didn't pester Akihito about it.
Damn, how did Asami know?
He looked up at the crime lord again. His golden eyes had narrowed in displeasure, his mouth grim as he waited for his answers.
Shit, what am I supposed to say?
Akihito could come out with lame excuses but past experiences warned him not to, so he went for the truth.
"I – I was desperate for information so I can help you in the case."
"I could have gotten the information easily. Servicing Sakazaki is hardly an option."
"I'm not a freeloader. Getting information is the only thing I can do and –," Akihito trailed off, looking away. "—If Kuroda sensei can help you, so can I."
"Simply put, you're jealous of Shinji?"
"Of course I'm not!" Akihito denied hotly. I just want to feel useful, his mind added.
Asami nudged Akihito's chin up. "Don't try me, Akihito. Whatever your reasons are, I will not accept that as means to obtain information for me. I warned you before; I will destroy any man that touches you."
The photographer's eyes widened. "Wait, what did you do to Sakazaki? Did you ki—,"
Next on the evening news. The body of a man was found at a nightclub in Kabuki Cho. The man, identified as Sakazaki Jun, was found dead in his office with a single gunshot wound to his head. Police have yet to comment on the case but it was believed that Sakazaki was mutilated before his death.
Akihito stared at the television screen where the pretty anchorwoman discussed the details of the murder with her on-scene colleague. He immediately recognized the cheap blinking neon lights of Sakazaki's club.
"You killed him?" Akihito asked, although it wasn't a really a question.
Asami released his lover, turned to retrieve a cigarette. "I paid him a visit but I didn't have him killed."
"You're not lying?"
Anger flashed across Asami's golden eyes. "I don't need to. And if I killed him, I would have done a better job at disposing his dead body."
That made sense. Asami wasn't the type who'd do sloppy jobs. If he had killed Sakazaki, he probably dumped his body in Tokyo Bay rather than leaving him in obvious places. Akihito stared at the television again and watched the police carrying Sakazaki out in a black bag.
For some time, both men did not speak. Asami continued watching the news report while Akihito battled with his inner guilt. He knew Asami was angry and he didn't blame the crime lord. He wasn't proud of what he had done but there was nothing he could do to rectify it. He tried reversing their roles, and felt an immediate surge of jealousy within him.
Fuck, I seriously messed up.
"Asami," Akihito said, sliding down to the carpet. Taking a deep breath, he bowed. "I'm sorry for being a prideful idiot. I shouldn't have made the agreement with Sakazaki."
Asami remained silent and Akihito admitted ruefully that Asami wasn't going to accept his apology easily. He tried thinking what the older man liked and only one word came into his mind. But Akihito was in no mood to smooth things over with sex, even though it was the only option he could think of.
Akihito moved up, easing himself on Asami's lap. "I'm sorry," he said again.
This time, Asami replied. "I'll say this again. I do not share and I dislike anyone defiling my property."
Akihito thought it'd be wise to leave the 'I'm not your property' argument for another time so he remained quiet. He was contemplating his next action when Asami spoke again.
"Stand up."
Confused with the sudden order, he did as he was told. In one swift movement, Asami had him on his shoulders.
"What the hell?" Akihito yelped. "Put me down!"
Thoroughly ignored, Akihito stared helplessly as Asami went to the secret compartment and pushed the small black button.
Oh, shit.
Akihito recognized the room all too well since he was tied in it a few times. He squirmed, trying to get off his older lover but Asami merely dumped him on the bed and secured him with black leather cuffs.
"What the hell –nnnn!" His cries were muffled by a large ball gag on his mouth.
Asami removed a cock ring and a dildo from the drawer. He flashed Akihito a smirk.
"You didn't think you'd get away without punishment, did you?"
And all Akihito could think of was 'fuck.'
Xx Business as Usual xX
A few days later
Akihito massaged his wrist, still sore from the punishment he received three nights ago when Asami had his way with him in the bondage room.
It wasn't exactly a punishment, Akihito mused when he remembered the equal pleasures he received from Asami. But the sadistic bastard had tied him up and kept him hard for hours before allowing him to climax. And when he thought he could take no more, the older man teased his limp cock until he was hard again.
He supposed he deserved the punishment. He shouldn't have succumbed to Sakazaki's demands but Akihito did wonder how Asami found out about the incident since he was positive that he lost the private investigator that day before walking into Sakazaki's club.
"Takaba sama, are you all right?"
Akihito stopped massaging and quickly pulled his sleeves to cover the fading red marks around his wrists. "I'm fine."
His guard merely nodded and resumed his position behind Akihito. Akihito was in his third and final day of chaperoning Asami to work and he could hardly wait until the day was over.
"Toru, how did Asami find out with Sakazaki?"
"He told a few people, unknowing they were Asami sama's subordinates. They reported it in."
Akihito's jaw dropped in disbelief. "That son of a bitch! He actually bragged about it?"
Toru collected all the signed reports and placed it at the side of the table. "Takaba sama, it isn't my place to say this but please stop accepting bargains like this."
"Was Asami really angry about it?" Akihito asked, despite knowing the answer.
When the lanky guard remained silent, Akihito tried to lighten up the mood. "Well, it's not I can do it anymore, eh? Ando and you are always around. I can't even walk into a manga café in peace."
"Please do not joke about this, Takaba sama."
Akihito massaged his sore wrists again. "Don't worry Toru. I kinda learned my lesson the hard way."
As expected from the lanky guard, he did not offer further comments. Akihito continued with his reports until he heard a beep from Toru's phone. The guard glanced at his work phone before sliding it back into his dress pants.
"Takaba sama, Asami sama requested for you in his office."
"Request? That bastard never requests," he huffed but stood up anyway.
Akihito usually wouldn't give a rat's ass about Asami's orders but since he still felt slightly guilty over what happened, he gave in. He took the private elevator one floor up using his spanking employee card.
More like magic card, Akihito thought as he flipped his card back and forth. Asami presented him a new black card which bore his name and position. Toru informed him that the card resembled a master key to all of his and Asami's establishments, giving him the power to access literally every joint that Asami owned.
Slipping the card back into his wallet, he walked out of the elevator and into the foyer where Asami's office was located. As usual, his loyal subject Suoh stood in front of the office, barring anyone from entering without permission. Akihito mumbled a greeting, walked past the guard into Asami's office.
His lover was seated behind his desk with Kirishima standing beside him, collecting folders that Asami had signed. He excused himself when he saw Akihito, offering privacy to the men.
Asami's golden eyes looked up, rested on Akihito's hazel ones.
"Akihito."
If you're looking for me, just call me. I have a phone," Akihito said, fishing his phone out from his pockets and waved at the crime lord. "So, the next time you summoned me to your office using Toru, I'll pretend that I didn't hear it."
"If you're this willing, I wouldn't have to ask Toru."
"That's because –," Akihito stopped himself just in time before he muttered 'you wanted me in your office to play secretarial sex.'
As if knowing what he was about to say, Asami flashed him an infuriating smirk. He stood, walked to where Akihito was standing. "I just received reports on Marukoshi."
That had his attention. "And?"
The crime lord sat on the couch, prompting Akihito to do the same. "You'll be pleased to know that Marukoshi recorded a slight increase in the first fortnight's sale."
Akihito jumped up from his seat, threw a fist in the air. "Yes! I knew those discount coupons would work."
"It looks like you have a flair for business after all."
"Not really," Akihito said, sitting on the couch again. "I put myself in the situation and wondered what would make me happy if I shop at a stuck up rich housewife mart."
"So you're admitting that you're a rich housewife now?"
"No!" Akihito denied hotly, eying his lover. "Since the plan seems to be working, Suzuki san will continue working in Marukoshi."
"He's your employee, do as you please." the older man replied, pulling Akihito to his lap. "How's your back?" he asked, changing the subject.
Remembering what happened at the bondage room, Akihito's cheeks burned. His embarrassment faded soon enough and was replaced by guilt. From what he gathered from Toru, Asami watched every bit of the video, including him servicing Sakazaki. The photos and video of him performing the act had been recovered and destroyed.
And no matter how hard he tried to assure himself that he was merely acting in Asami's interests, he felt like a hypocritical bastard for betraying the older man's trust. So much so that he was willing to do something for Asami, including the secretarial sex that the older man loved so much.
Shit. For Akihito to think of repaying Asami with sex in his office, it meant that he felt damn bad about it. Slowly but surely, Akihito's hands went to his tie, pulling it free. He shrugged off his designer blazer next before moving to unbutton his shirt.
"Trying to get into the role, Akihito?"
"Shut – shut up," he replied embarrassed.
Damn, his fingers chose that precise moment to tremble, causing him to fumble with the buttons.
Asami caught his hands, pushing them away to take over the task himself. Akihito linked his arms around the crime lord's neck and made a daring move to kiss Asami on his own. His little act caught the older man by surprise and before he could decipher what was going on, Akihito found himself lying on the couch, under Asami.
Akihito's cheeks burned from mortifications of his own actions but he was so aroused and couldn't give a damn about his pride. In fact, he was more than willing to surrender himself.
The urgent rap on Asami's door had the photographer scrambled to his feet. Being interrupted for the second time in the office, Asami was ready to grab the gun from his shoulder holster and shoot the first person point blank. His golden eyes narrowed in displeasure as he looked at the heavy oak doors being pushed apart but none other than his own secretary.
"Asami sama," Kirishima bowed quickly. "I apologize for my rudeness but there is an emergency."
As Akihito struggled to button his shirt, the secretary went on explaining. "Two detectives from the special crime unit are here to see you."
Asami needed no further explanation. "Where are they?" He asked, fixing his clothes in place.
"At the lobby, sir."
"Send Toru in," he ordered, just as he buttoned his designer coat.
As if Toru was waiting by the door, the lanky guard walked in as soon as Asami gave the orders. "Asami sama, what are your orders?"
Asami took his seat behind his desk as Kirishima rushed to put the things in order. "Take Akihito to the room and do not leave it until you're cleared to do so."
"Understood," he replied, bowing. Straightening his body, he walked to the shelf and pulled the latch, opening the private room adjacent to the office.
"Asami, what's going on?" Akihito managed to ask just before Toru pulled him into the room and pressed a button by the side, efficiently closing the private quarters.
"Toru, what the hell is going on?"
"The special crime unit detectives are here," he said, switching on the computer on the table. Pressing a few buttons, Toru activated the security cameras in Asami's office. He pulled out a window on the screen, showing live footages of the office.
"I know they're here but why the hell am I here?" Akihito demanded as he watched the flat screen monitor. Both Asami and Kirishima were in deep discussion. While his lover looked calm and composed, Kirishima actually sported a rare troubled look.
"Most likely, they're here to question Asami sama about Sakazaki's murder."
Akihito took his seat on the swivel chair in front of the computer. "What's that got to do with Asami? He didn't kill Sakazaki."
"We were at his club just hours before his death."
Finally beginning to understand, Akihito looked up from the screen. "Does that mean they're going to arrest Asami?"
His questions never got answered. Moments later, he watched two detectives in grey and black suits walked into the office.
"Is there audio?" he whispered.
"Yes, but we can't risk divulging our location. This room isn't sound proof."
Akihito jammed his hands into his pocket, pulled out a set of ear phones and plugged it in. He plugged his right ear and passed the left ear piece to Toru.
"Activate the audio."
The guard did as he was told before sitting on a stool. Neither of them spoke as they listened to the conversation in the office.
"Asami san, Detective Matsumoto and Kanbe," the two detectives introduced themselves, showing their identification cards.
Asami waved his hand, offered the detectives seats before asking, "What can I do for you, detectives?"
Detective Matsumoto, dressed in a grey suit introduced himself as the senior in the team. As opposed to Kanbe's spiked hairdo, Matsumoto had short formal side swept hair. Akihito noted that Matsumoto looked calm, unshaken in the presence of Asami, evidence he had years of experience under his belt. His partner Kanbe looked easily eight years Matsumoto's junior, and like all the men Akihito had seen, he was slightly intimidated by the crime lord.
"We would like to ask you a few questions about a man named Sakazaki Jun, the owner of Club Nine in Kabuki Cho."
"What about him?"
"He was found dead three nights ago in his club."
There was silence in the room as Akihito watched Matsumoto leaned forward. Placing his hands on the desk, he stared straight at Asami, checking for signs of nervousness.
"I heard about his death," Asami replied neutrally.
"Our investigations showed that you were with him just hours before his death. The security footages inside the club were wiped out but –," Matsumoto said, his lips curved a triumph smile. "—we managed to obtain the security footages from the opposite store. You were there, so were your subordinates, Suoh Kazumi and Kirishima Kei."
Asami showed no signs of being cornered. "I went there to offer him a buy-out, seeing his club wasn't performing lately. He refused and I left. He was still very much alive when I left."
"I think you're lying, Asami san."
"I don't have to. I'm a businessman, and my interests are purely business. His death isn't my responsibility."
"We like to discuss this further at the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department."
"Am I under arrest, detectives?" Asami asked.
Again, Matsumoto gave a confident smile. "Not yet. As for both of you, Kirishima Kei and Suoh Kazumi—," he said, looking at the guards. "You are to follow us to the station. We have a couple of questions for both of you."
Matsumoto turned to his junior. "Kanbe kun, escort our guests to the car."
Akihito gasped and quickly covered his mouth when Kanbe opened the door for Asami, Suoh and Kirishima to walk of the office. Akihito's mind went blank and instinctively, he stood up and made a dash to the door.
Toru managed to grab Akihito just before the boy pressed the button. "Takaba sama, calm down!"
"Let me go, Toru!" Akihito hissed, trying to get away but the guard held him back.
"If you go now, you'll expose your identity to the detectives."
Miraculously, Akihito managed to break free from Toru's iron grip and tried to move to the door again. This time, Toru caught his arm and yanked him back, causing the boy to fall back on the bed. Hovering above Akihito, he pinned the photographer's hands above his head.
"They're taking him away!" He said angrily. "How can you be so calm?"
"Takaba sama, if you expose your identity now, the detectives will take the opportunity to drill you over Sakazaki's incident."
Akihito's eyes flashed. "You think I'd succumbed to pressure and betray Asami?"
"No," the guard answered quietly. "I believe Asami sama ordered me to bring you here because he didn't want you to get caught in the mess."
It was the first time Toru spoke his mind. The lanky guard was usually stoic and it was difficult to even elicit a response from the guard so having him talking about Asami's decision had Akihito remained still. Slowly, he turned his head to the side, angling his head to the monitor. The office was already empty. The shock from seeing Asami escorted out of his own office by the police had by now faded, leaving him numb and hollow. Toru released him, helped him into seating position.
Realization hit Akihito fast. It was him who caused all this. If he didn't make the bargain with Sakazaki, Asami wouldn't have to confront the man; and everything wouldn't be in a mess.
"Toru, what should we do? Both Kirishima and Suoh are in the police station."
Toru checked the monitor one last time and when he was satisfied that the office was deserted, he pressed a button on the wall and the walls of the private room slid open.
"I'll contact Hasegawa sensei," Toru said, referring to the legal chief working at Sion. He walked into the office adjoining the private room and went round Asami's desk. He pressed a single number that would lead him directly to Hasegawa's office. He spoke briefly, and after instructing Hasegawa to bring his team to the police department, he replaced the phone.
"What about Kuroda sensei?" Akihito whispered, stepping out of the private quarters at last.
"I'll contact him, although I don't know how he can be of assistance. He's the district attorney. He prosecutes, not defend."
"But he helps Asami cleans up his mess," Akihito protested.
Toru nodded his head in agreement. "Law is his area of expertise. I'll leave it to him."
It was a good hour later before Toru declared it was clear for them to leave the office. He kept a wary eye as they rode down the private elevator to meet Ando at the basement parking. Akihito was surprised to find a normal looking sedan instead one of Asami's many expensive cars parked in the bay.
"We cannot use any of Asami sama's vehicles. It'll rouse suspicions," Toru explained.
He nodded his head glumly and climbed into the back of the sedan, a vehicle that belonged to one of Kirishima's assistants. As they sped off to Asami's penthouse in Shinjuku, Akihito never felt any worse than he did at that moment.
Xx Business as Usual xX
Asami kept a tight control of himself as the hour passed. He didn't fidget nor did he protest about his treatment in the interrogation room. He knew what sort of games the detectives wanted to play. Stalling as long as they could; with hopes that he'd be agitated and angry about being kept waiting.
And those bastards would coolly observe from the observation window and profile him from there.
He smirked. He wasn't about to fall for their trap. It wasn't his first time being interrogated and he damn well could handle those bastards.
The visit by the detectives was no surprise. Asami expected that to happen the minute he saw the news report on Sakazaki's murder on television. He suspected Sakazaki was either having a really unlucky day or someone wanted to frame him for the murder. He asked Kirishima to snoop around but the secretary couldn't find any evidence connecting Sakazaki's murder to anyone of interests.
Asami wasn't worried about Kirishima and Suoh being held in separate rooms. It was usually a technique detectives used so they could catch their interviewee off guard before making them spill the beans. His guards were far more intelligent than to succumb under pressure.
Asami glanced at his wrist watch. Another 30 minutes had passed and still no signs of the detectives. He thought of Akihito and briefly wondered his lover's reactions when he learned what happened.
Toru will know what to do.
At that thought, the doors of the interrogation room opened. Detective Matsumoto strode in confidently, followed by his junior, Kanbe. While Kanbe looked rather nervous, Matsumoto had the looks of a person who had won a million-dollar jackpot.
"Asami san, I'm sure you know why you're here," Matsumoto began, slamming the brown folder on the table.
"Perhaps it'd be better if we start this slowly," Kanbe said, placing his own folder on the table. "Would you like anything to drink? Coffee? Tea?"
So Kanbe's playing the good cop here. Asami thought before answering, "No, thank you."
"Then, shall we begin?" Matsumoto took his seat and flipped his file open. "Your whereabouts on October 20th, between 12 and four in the morning; and don't pretend that you don't know."
"If you already knew, why bother asking me, detective?"
"We want it on the record," junior detective said.
"I went to see Sakazaki at one in the morning. We talked and I left an hour later."
"What business do you have with him at one in the morning?" Detective Matsumoto asked curiously.
Asami smirked. "It's a common time to meet when we're in business of this nature, detective."
Matsumoto looked displeased but he didn't comment further. "So, you claim that you left the club at two in the morning, after business?" he asked, mocking Asami.
"Yes."
Matsumoto stood up and pointed at the crime lord. "You're lying. You want my theory in this? You walked in, in pretense of talking business and you killed him."
Asami's eyes narrowed at the detectives. "I do not have anything to gain from killing Sakazaki. I suggest that you get your evidence before accusing an innocent man."
Always the hotheaded one among the duo, Matsumoto slammed his hands on the table, flipping the file open on purpose. Sakazaki's dead body lay in a red pool of mess with a gunshot wound on his head. His terrified eyes looked upwards; evidence that he was most likely staring at his attacker's face when he was killed execution style.
"See this, you bastard? You're responsible for—"
A knock on the room halted Matsumoto's accusations. Frustrated that he was interrupted, the burly detective was about to blast at his subordinates for interrupting an interview in progress when a distinguished looking man walked in. Dressed in a power black suit, he walked into the room with a leather briefcase and a pair of black shoes so shiny that they screamed money.
Sharp eyes rested briefly on Asami before turning to Matsumoto and Kanbe. "Detectives, Hasegawa Kousuke," he said as he retrieved a card from his pocket and slid it across the table. "I'm here to represent my client, Asami Ryuichi sama."
"I apologize for being late, sir," he bowed at Asami and proceeded to sit on the chair without waiting for an invitation.
"We're in the middle of interrogation," Matsumoto gritted out.
Hasegawa offered a thin smirk. "Then I arrive at the right time."
For the lack of a better response, Matsumoto sat down next to his junior. He began again, "Asami Ryuichi, we have lifted out prints from Sakazaki's office and once we have the results, your ass will be in jail. It's just a matter of time before the secrets are out. I'm now giving you a chance to admit—"
"—Detective Matsumoto," Hasegawa interrupted. "—you are suggesting that my client should admit to a crime he did not commit. This is inexcusable."
"The prints—"
"—The prints are not back from the lab. To insinuate that my client is a murderer without proper evidence is outrageous!"
Ignoring the lawyer, Matsumoto glanced briefly at his note taking junior before resting his sharp gaze on Asami again. "You are on security surveillance, Asami. You were seen at Sakazaki's shop during his time of death."
"Being there does not equate to killing him, Detective," Asami said mildly.
"Detective, my client's presence in the shop around the time of Sakazaki's unfortunate death did not mean anything. If you do not have any other evidence to back up your accusations, I insist that you release my client this instant."
Matsumoto apparently could not take it any longer. He stood up, slammed his hands on the table. "This is not a restaurant where you can walk in and out as you damn please!" he said, outraged.
"Your attitude is not needed here, detective Matsumoto," Hasegawa stood up to meet his rival. "I shall be filing a legal complaint about it."
"File away, I'm not afraid of some big shot's lawyer," the burly detective challenge.
"Matsumoto san," Kanbe finally spoke, worried.
Ignoring his junior, the senior detective continued, "We'll have our evidence in a day or two, Asami Ryuichi. Once the prints are back from the lab, your prints will be mixed among the many we have lifted. We're getting a warrant to search your office and home as we speak."
He turned to Hasegawa. "And your client can wait in the lock up until we get our results."
Hasegawa stood up. "You have no evidence to charge my client!"
Matsumoto gave a victorious smile. "Oh I don't have them – yet. But according to the law, we have the power to remand someone for a minimum of seven days without charging him. So, until we get the results, your boss can sit in jail."
Infuriated, the lawyer opened his mouth to protest when Asami spoke, "Hasegawa."
The crime lord stood up, buttoning his coat. "Detective, I am most willing to cooperate in any way I can, and that includes being remanded in the police lock up," he said coolly and pierced his eyes at the detectives. "I believe justice will prevail and my innocence can therefore be proven."
"—and," Asami continued before Matsumoto could reply, "—when I am out, I suggest you to lawyer up. I have every intention of filing a legal complaint against the department for improper conduct of investigation."
"But sir," Hasegawa protested when Asami walked past him.
The crime lord waived his hand. "Hasegawa, while we wait, file the papers," he said and walked towards the detectives.
Fixing his coat again, Asami smirked. "After you, detective."
Asami had no doubts that Detective Matsumoto and Detective Kanbe were fuming when they led him out of the interrogation room to the cell.
As he sat alone in his cell, staring at the cheap futon folded neatly by the corner, he thought about the case. It was odd that Sakazaki was killed as soon as he left. He was assured by Kirishima and Suoh that all surveillance cameras had been deactivated prior to their arrival and his two subordinates hadn't failed him before. The guards Suoh selected that night were seasoned guards, so it was unlikely he was betrayed by his own men.
Matsumoto said that he had the security footages from the shop across the road.
That didn't make any sense. No owner would install a security camera to spy on the store opposite them. It left Asami to one plausible conclusion.
Someone was intentionally framing him.
Asami went grim at the thought.
Whoever you are, whatever games you're playing; you won't be able to laugh once I'm out.
Xx Business as Usual xX
Akihito sat perfectly still on the couch of Shinjuku Prince Hotel penthouse suite, waiting. At Toru's suggestion, they checked into a hotel unaffiliated to Asami to avoid detection. Toru predicted that the detectives would most likely obtain a warrant to search Asami's penthouse and it would be wise not to remain in the apartment.
Akihito tried protesting, complaining that his personal belongings such as his clothes and camera were still housed in the apartment and that the detectives would know if Asami was living with someone. The lanky guard merely nodded and made a few phone calls. In an hour after Asami was escorted to the police station, Akihito's clothes and other personal items were removed from the penthouse.
Like a man in trance, Akihito allowed his guard to take lead. He followed the lanky guard obediently into the suite and even took a shower as suggested. Dressed in his favorite vintage jeans and white shirt, the photographer stared at the blank television screen.
He knew it was his fault that Asami was in trouble. Realized that he was the reason Asami went to confront Sakazaki. Understood that he was the main cause that Sakazaki was dead and Asami took the rap because of that.
Because of me, Asami is – he halted, covering his eyes with a hand. Shit, what should I do?
The doorbell rang, forcing the photographer to put his thoughts on hold. Toru took out his gun, nodded at Ando who did the same. They moved to the door, taking a side each before Toru checked through the peephole. He relaxed almost instantly and ordered Ando to keep his gun before opening the doors for the party they had been waiting for.
District Attorney Kuroda Shinji walked in first, followed by a man Akihito recognized as Asami's spy at the police headquarters, Inspector Mori.
"Kuroda sensei, Inspector Mori," Toru greeted, gesturing them to the couch.
Kuroda shrugged off his coat, hung it on the post and sat. Rolling up his sleeves, he pulled his tie free and unbuttoned the first two buttons of his shirt. Inspector Mori, a big man with square face and military hairstyle, did the same. Stressed from everything that was happening, both Mori and Kuroda looked worn out.
"Where is Hasegawa san?" Toru asked.
Kuroda removed his spectacles and pinched the bridge of his nose. "He's at Sion, compiling papers."
Akihito dared himself to speak. "What about Asami?"
Kuroda replaced his glasses. "Remanded at the police station for seven days. Both Kirishima and Suoh are also remanded."
Akihito sat up straight. "Are they charging them?"
It was Mori who answered. "Not yet but under the law, the police have the authority to remand anyone for seven days without formally charging them. After that, they can file a request with the court to extend the remand for another seven days."
"But – but, how can they do that? Asami didn't kill Sakazaki!"
Kuroda pierced his eyes at Akihito. "That's the law of the country and we cannot do anything to change the system."
"There must be something that can be done," Akihito said, desperate.
"Do you think we'd leave any options if we know what we can do to get Ryuichi out?" Kuroda snapped. "Takaba, you cause enough troubles for Ryuichi. You put him there."
Toru stepped forward. "Kuroda sensei, I will excuse your behavior in view that you are currently under tremendous stress with Asami sama's case. But I will not tolerate it if you continue to blame Takaba sama for something that he didn't do."
Kuroda stood up, pointing at Akihito. "Do you know how many times I have to clean up the mess for Ryuichi because of this brat? He has been acting uncharacteristically because of him!"
Both Ando and Toru moved until they stood face to face with Kuroda. "Sensei, I will not –,"
"—STOP IT!" Akihito yelled. He went to the men, separated them by pushing them away.
"But Takaba sama—," Ando protested and was immediately cut off by Akihito.
"—I said Stop it," he reiterated and the men moved back to their positions. Kuroda took his seat again, folded his arms.
Akihito turned towards the district attorney. "You're right, Kuroda sensei. I should be blamed for this."
"Takaba sama—,"
"No, let me finished," he interrupted Toru and turned back to Kuroda. "I caused a lot of problem for Asami and you. I know how much hassle you went through to clear the mess I made. As much as I kept on thinking that it wasn't my fault that Asami went to see Sakazaki on his own accord, the fact that he went there because of what I did cannot be changed."
The photographer hung his head. "I'm sorry."
The apology caught everyone by surprise. Kuroda's eyes actually widened while Mori and Ando looked as though as they had heard something strange. Only Toru's expression remained unchanged.
Kuroda gave in. "Although I failed to see what Ryuichi sees in you, I do not question his decisions," he said, looking up at a miserable Akihito. "Sit down, Takaba. Inspector Mori and I will go through the case."
Obediently, Akihito took his seat. His guards stood behind him and waited silently for the two men to begin.
Inspector Mori cleared his throat. "I read the interview report and from what I gathered, Matsumoto and Kanbe lifted a few prints in Sakazaki's office, which they presumed them to be Kirishima's, Suoh's or Asami sama's. The lab results are not back yet so we can't say for sure whose prints were those."
"We are quite confident that we did not leave any prints behind," Toru said.
The spy looked at Toru. "Fingerprints are not the concern. Many criminals wiped off evidence after committing crimes. The worrying issue here is the security camera. It placed Asami sama on the scene during Sakazaki's time of death. Now, all Matsumoto needed is the motive of murder or the murder weapon and they'll be free to charge Asami sama for homicide."
Kuroda sat up, leaned forward and rested his elbows on either knee. "I'm a D.A so technically I prosecute on behalf of the government. All prosecutions have to go through us. If Ryuichi's prosecution papers come in, I will demand for more evidence. From what I gathered, the evidence is still weak. There is no strong link to connect Ryuichi with Sakazaki's murder. No weapons as of yet, no finger prints, no motive."
"I'll send a few men to look into the matter. They are already on the streets as we speak, gathering information on the actual killer. Someone must have seen something," Mori said.
"There is also something that I'm quite concern of," Kuroda bit his lower lips. "Ryuichi is hardly anything but careless yet he was caught in the security cameras. I'm suspecting someone is framing him for Sakazaki's murder."
"I suspect the same thing sensei," Toru said, earning a surprise response from Kuroda.
"You did?"
The lanky guard nodded. "We made sure everything was in order before paying Sakazaki a visit. There shouldn't be a security camera from the opposite store as I've checked it just an hour before Asami sama arrived at Sakazaki's club. It meant that someone set that up intentionally after I left, angling the camera to the club, all in the purpose of framing Asami sama."
"Who could have done it?" Akihito whispered.
"The list is endless," Kuroda answered. "The best we could hope is for Mori's men to find out anything about the real killer."
Mori nodded his head. "I will send more men to comb the area. I'm just hoping that it isn't a hired assassin. That usually makes it more difficult to track down."
"I can help."
The soft, gentle declaration had everyone turning to Akihito.
"Takaba sama, what do you mean?" Toru asked.
Akihito looked up at the men, his hazel eyes fiery and determined. "I know a place where people hang out. They're mostly rotten – from drug addicts, dealers, scammers, you name it. The master himself is a shrewd man but he possesses information that no one else had."
Mori shifted his big frame. "And how does he obtain his information?"
"People talk, Inspector Mori," Akihito replied, reaching out to the glass of water Toru placed on the table earlier and took a sip to soothe his dry throat. "That's how he gets the information. He would never divulge any of the information; unless you pay a high price for it. That's how he earns his money."
Mori looked slightly alarmed. "But if you claimed that he had information, what about information on Asami sama?"
Akihito shook his head. "I tried, but the master said that Asami's information is the only one that he hadn't been able to get. The most he could get were meeting locations." He gave a small smile. "I tried asking when I was actively pursuing Asami's illegal activities."
The confirmation had Mori relaxed a little.
"What are you suggesting, Takaba?" Kuroda asked quietly.
Akihito kept calm and forced his brain to work despite it was nearly numb from shock. "I'll check out if he had anything. But I have to go undercover. He hated reporters and police so I lied and told him that I was a street rat, obtaining information for clients."
"I'll go with you," Toru said.
Akihito shook his head. "It's easier if I go alone. Less suspicions and people are more likely to talk if you're alone."
Toru moved from his place and knelt in front of the photographer. "It's too dangerous."
"Takaba is right, Toru," Kuroda interrupted. "Let him handle this."
"We have orders, Kuroda sensei. We do not leave Takaba sama's sight," Toru added and Ando nodded in agreement.
"I'm not a child Toru," Akihito said before averting his eyes. "Besides, I have to do something or I'll never forgive myself if anything happens to Asami," he added gravely.
Toru didn't look like he agreed with Akihito but offered no further comments. Nodding his head, he stood up. "We'll provide support from a distance," he said finally. "And Takaba sama?"
Akihito focused his attention at Toru.
"If anything happens to you, we'll never forgive ourselves too."
Xx Business as Usual xX
The white covered carriage truck carrying a logistic company logo stopped not too far from a quiet street in Toshima. Seated behind the driver's seat, Ando took the chart from the passenger seat and pretended to fill in his daily report. His trained eyes observed the quiet streets and when he was satisfied that he was cleared from any suspicious individual, he mumbled 'all clear' though his mouthpiece.
Inside the truck, Akihito adjusted his black wig and big frame glasses for one final time.
"Takaba sama, are you sure about not being wired?"
"No, it's far too dangerous. The master has a good eye and he'll spot the device almost immediately," Akihito said as he continued fixing his clothes. He wore a pair of jeans with the dirtiest color he could fine and paired it with a cheap T-shirt he made Toru bought at the flea market. He had to dress the part to make it more believable.
He always wore a wig whenever he visited the bar. His light colored hair attracted too much attention and far too many troubles. It was best to keep as low key as possible. In fact, if he could walk in, sniveling like an addict, he'd blend in immediately.
"Takaba sama, we'll be here waiting. If Ando and I do not see you in an hour, we'll come in."
"I'll be fine." Akihito patted Toru's arm, standing up in the process. "It isn't my first time there. Most of the patrons are pretty harmless anyway. Occasionally you'd find one or two with a knife but they don't flash their weapons around. If you ask me, the only thing I should be worried is the Master. He's a bisexual pervert and – hey!"
Akihito yelped when Toru pulled him back down. "Takaba sama, please do not exchange sexual favors with anyone. Asami sama will be highly displeased."
Being forced to remember the incident with Sakazaki, the photographer's muscles tightened. "I know," he murmured quietly. "I'm prepared to renegotiate if the deal is headed towards that direction."
For the first time, Toru actually looked oddly uncomfortable with Akihito's reaction. He helped Akihito up and bowed. "I apologize for the inappropriate remark, Takaba sama."
Akihito gave the guard a friendly punch on his arm. "Don't be. I'll be off," he said and jumped off the truck, leaving Toru still bowing.
Xx Business as Usual xX
The bar was exactly how Akihito had remembered. Located in a quiet, sleepy street behind Toshima's shopping district, the bar was hidden between unrented shops. There wasn't any business signage so Akihito had to count the lamp posts on the street to identify the location.
Having frequented the place a few times, Akihito found it rather easily. The long flight of stairs down leading to the bar was dark, devoid of any light. Still, Akihito did not use hid the lamp app on his phone to light the way, fearing his actions would give him away. He needed to look like he was used to it.
The staircase had a strong pungent smell of both urine and vomit mixed together when Akihito reached the bottom. Holding his breath, he pushed open the wooden door and was greeted by a crowd of people minding their own business.
It was a quiet day. A few groups were spotted in their own spots, too zoned out to realize what was going on and no one batted an eyelid when Akihito entered. He cheered inwardly and quickly made his way to the counter where the master stood waiting.
Kase Yuuto, or better known as the Master was a big man with fairly good set of muscles on his body. His long wavy hair was tied into a low ponytail and kept his moustache and facial hair around his mouth trimmed for a trendier look.
He grinned when he noticed Akihito.
"Yo Haru!"
Right. Akihito had forgotten that he used an alias in the bar. He couldn't risk using his real name so he went by his brother's name in the bar.
"Master," Akihito greeted and climbed onto the stool.
"Where the fuck did you go? You've been missing in action for nearly a year."
It was definitely more than a year since Akihito last saw Kase but he thought it's be wise not to correct the man. He stared at Kase's T-shirt, a rock-ish sort of design with the slogan, 'live by the gun, die by the gun'.
"Got busted for coke," Akihito said, using slang on purpose. "The police only found a small tube in my pockets so they sent me to the hellhole."
His story worked. "Rehab?" Kase asked, laughing.
Akihito made a disgusted face. "Can you fucking believe it?"
"You got it rough, Haru." Kase grabbed a chilled bottle of beer, passed to Akihito. "Here, a drink to celebrate your release."
Akihito preferred not to drink while he was on serious business but he figured he shouldn't decline so he took a gulp. He chatted with the Master after that, who showed more interest in Akihito than actual chatting. The man went as far as caressing his neck and Akihito was certain that Toru wouldn't have tolerated if the guard was here.
Hold it Akihito, just a little more. He encouraged himself. He tried looking for ways to start the topic but Kase was so engrossed discussing his sex prowess that Akihito couldn't find a chance. Finally, after talking for nearly twenty minutes, his opportunity came.
"So Haru, what brings you here today? Don't tell me you came because you wanted a drink."
Akihito slowly pushed his bottle aside and leaned forward. "I need information about Sakazaki's murder."
Kase raised his bushy eyebrow. "The club owner who got killed a few nights ago?"
He knows something, Akihito thought as he scrutinized Kase's facial expression. Kase pretended to look surprised but somehow Akihito couldn't help but feel that the man was hiding his inner glee.
"Straight to the point," Akihito said. "I have a client who wants some information about the murder."
Kase leaned forward. "My sources told me that Asami Ryuichi killed him."
He was testing if I knew the truth. Akihito pretended to be confused. "But that wasn't what I was told. There seemed to be someone framing Asami Ryuichi for the crime."
This time, the smile on Kase spread. "What do you need, Haru chan?"
Akihito ignored the inappropriate use of the suffix and focused on his task. "Do you know who's the real killer?"
"You know the rules here. I can't tell you without getting anything in return." Kase licked his lips.
"But you know the identity of the real killer?" Akihito pressed.
"No, but I'm sure with a little more digging, someone could easily put the pieces together."
"How much for you to spill?"
"Depends how much you can offer me."
Shit.
"Relax, Haru chan. I don't want sex –yet." He leaned forward, trailing his fingers along Akihito's jaw before yanking him forward. "A million yen," he whispered before biting Akihito's ear.
Akihito pushed Kase away, and it wasn't because of his bad breath. "Are you crazy? How the hell am I supposed to get those?"
Kase ran his thumb across his lips, smirking. "I don't know and can't be bothered. You can't give it to me, the deal's off."
The photographer eyed Kase, suspicious. "You're not lying about the information?"
This time, the smirk went away. "If you doubt my information, get the fuck out."
"No!" Akihito quickly countered. "It's a hell lot of money and the most I have in my pockets is a ten thousand yen."
"I'm willing to renegotiate," Kase said, his eyes gleamed.
"You'll reduce the price?" Akihito asked hopefully.
"Let me fuck you once."
It was Sakazaki's incident all over again. Akihito remembered the man demanding him to suck him off in exchange for information and for the lack of a better option, he did.
No, you chose that, Akihito. You chose it because you were desperate and it was an easy way out. Akihito reminded himself. The consequences had been severe, with both Sakazaki murdered and Asami remanded at the police department. And it happened because he was stupid.
He wasn't going to make history repeat. Besides, he didn't think he could do it and the thought of him performing sexual favors for another man or woman nauseated him to the core.
"I don't swing that way, Master."
"Really?" Kase traced his fingers along Akihito's jaw again. "You have the looks and smell of it."
Akihito wondered how could a smell of fresh soap and shampoo could equate to gay sex but he didn't comment further. Digging for his wallet, he unzipped the coin department and took out the black diamond Asami had extracted out of the previous phone.
"I don't have money but take this. This should worth something."
Obviously recognizing the value of the gem, Kase took it and disappeared to the back. When he returned a moment later, he looked at Akihito suspiciously.
"This is really rare. Where did you find it?"
Akihito shrugged his shoulders, acted like he didn't care. "Stole it from a rich lady. I thought of pawning it later. Pure coke is expensive these days."
The master weighed the gem again before finally reaching a decision. "I'll take this and the ten thousand yen in your wallet."
Xx Business as Usual xX
"Did you find anything?" Kuroda asked the minute Akihito walked in the hotel penthouse suite.
Akihito sat on the sofa before removing his wig. He raked his fingers through his hair and stared at Kuroda and Mori. Both men had remained at the hotel even after Akihito left, pouring their energy into Asami's case. And from the look of their faces, they had no new leads.
"A man with a serpent tattoo on the side of his neck," Akihito said, removing his glasses in the process.
Mori's police instinct immediately kicked in. "How reliable is the information?"
The photographer stared at Mori's dead set eyes. "I got it from the Master."
Still not convinced, Mori asked again. "You sure he's telling the truth? The police had nothing on the case."
"Some people can't keep secrets to themselves," Akihito said, "especially in a bar like that. And when you were given the task of killing someone to bring the great Asami Ryuichi down, they tend to boast around."
Kuroda looked unconvinced. "Is anyone more brainless than that? You shot someone and you bragged around?"
Toru came forward with a glass of water and Akihito gulped in down thirstily. "Kase said a man who chatted with him asked him a strange question."
"What was the question?" Mori sat up, interested.
"He asked if Kase had the guts to kill anyone." Akihito passed the glass to Toru. "And when the master said no, he laughed it off and offered the master a packet of drugs. I quote from Kase, "Take this and you won't feel anything at all. You can even kill a flashy gay mutilated bar owner and be cool about it."
"Is it merely a drunkard spouting rubbish?" Kuroda asked Mori, pushing his glasses up.
"I don't think so, Kuroda sensei. They talk crap when they are drunk but usually do not give specific examples like he did."
Akihito ran his hand through his hair. "Look, I know Kase is a bastard but most of his information is solid. I wouldn't go to him for information on my stake outs if he isn't reliable."
Kuroda stood up, slipping on his coat. "It's either that or you just got duped," he said and watched Akihito's eyes flared. "But, it's the only lead we have so both Mori and I will follow up on it."
Mori stood up, bowed slightly at Akihito. "You've done your part, Takaba sama. Let me do mine," he said and left the room.
Kuroda took his black leather briefcase and headed to the door. Hand rested on the door knob, he turned. "What if the information leads to nowhere, Takaba kun?"
Akihito's gaze lifted, his hazel eyes turned fiery and determined. "We'll keep searching. If anyone's putting the bastard in prison, it'll be me."
Kuroda pushed his spectacles up. "I am beginning to understand what Ryuichi sees in you."
"Kuroda sensei?" he asked, just as Kuroda unlocked the door. "What's your relationship with Asami?"
Kuroda's lips curved into a derisive smile. "Jealous, Takaba?"
"NO!" Akihito denied, his eyes averted to the side.
"He's family. We grew up together."
"You're brothers?"
Kuroda merely smiled at Akihito and left without answering the question.
Xx Business as Usual xX
Toru sat in a rented apartment, his trained eyes continued to survey the quiet streets of Toshima. Mori sent out a dozen men on the streets looking for the man in serpent tattoo but looking for an individual in a metropolitan proved to be a challenging task.
When Mori came empty handed and frustrated after the first day, Toru knew that they had to change tactics or they won't be able to find the culprit. The lanky guard hacked into the Goda's Group email accounts and although it did not yield anything in particular, Goda was in frequent contacts with someone he referred to as Umeki.
He tracked the IP address Umeki used when he replied Goda's email and found that it was sent from the Toshima vicinity. He would have been able to pin point Umeki's location better if he had access to the telecommunications company. But hacking into the company takes too much time and effort, not to mention that they had recently beefed up their security so it'd take Toru even longer.
Toru could have cursed his carelessness. Akihito mentioned that the culprit went to the bar at Toshima where he had a couple of drinks there. For him to frequent the bar in Toshima, he must be living around the vicinity. By now, news about him being the target should have reach Umeki's own ears so it was unlikely he'd moved around.
Toru had deduced that Umeki might go to the bar again since it was probably the only place he felt safe. He gathered Asami's men and had them on standby while he and Mori sat in the apartment right across the bar to be on the lookout.
Luck was definitely on their side that night. Just after one in the morning, Toru spotted a lone man walking along the quiet street.
Toru nudged Mori's arm and together they watched the man dressed in dark clothes and a hoodie walking towards the direction of the bar.
"Can't see his tattoo," Mori said, putting down his binoculars.
"He's behaving suspiciously. Kept looking back every five seconds or so," Toru said and looked through the binoculars again.
"Anyway can we make him remove his hoodie?" Mori asked.
"I'll do it," Toru said. "Call the men. Get them on standby."
Toru exited the apartment quietly. He took the other route that would make him come face to face with the man. Jamming his hands into his khaki pants, Toru walked out and made his way to the man. Like a person who had something to hide, Toru kept his head down but his eyes were locked on his target walking towards his direction. His presence did not go unnoticed by the man. Keeping his head low, the man quickened his steps past Toru, hoping Toru would leave him alone.
But the lanky guard wasn't about to let the opportunity slip. On purpose, he pretended to trip and rammed himself onto the man's shoulder, causing him to fall on his back. The hoodie covering his head came off and Toru found what he had been looking for – a serpent on the man's neck.
He wasted no time. Before the man could stand up, Toru was already pinning him down on the ground. But apparently, he was no amateur either. He managed to get away from Toru's grasp and made a quick dash.
"It's him," Toru said over his mouth piece.
Either five years of army training proved to be useful or the man was a poor runner. Toru caught up easily and managed to subdue him by grabbing his arm and yanked him backwards. He back flipped the man, kneed his neck to the ground and whipped out his gun.
"Umeki?" Toru asked, pointing the gun to Umeki's forehead.
"What the fuck?" he snarled.
Toru kneed him harder, crushing his breathing passage. Staring downcast on the man, he said coolly, "It was you who killed Sakazaki and framed Asami sama, was it not?"
Umeki let out a strange gurgling sound as he tried to gasp for air. Toru released him and hauled him to his feet. Shoving the gun beneath the man's chin, he said, "Answer me or I'll kill you."
Finally noticing the intensity of Toru's eyes, Umeki nodded.
Behind him, Mori and his men were approaching. Without looking at Mori, Toru said, "Inspector Mori, we have our guy."
"Good work, Toru," Mori said, taking the task from the guard.
Toru searched him, checking through his pockets and aside from a few thousand yen and an identity card, he had nothing. "No gun," he said, referring to the weapon he used to kill Sakazaki.
"We should be able to find it in his apartment." He let his men handled Umeki and moved nearer to Toru. "If we can't find the gun, I can always plant other evidence. Hand me the hunting knife you use to slice the bastard's dick off."
Beginning to see Mori's intention, Toru nodded. "Intelligent plan, Inspector."
Mori flashed Toru a grin. "You're not shabby yourself. Now I know why they call you the top four."
Uncomfortable with praises, Toru merely bowed.
Xx Business as Usual xX
Even with Toru's intelligence, Ando's experience as a security chief and Inspector Mori's vast manhunt for the culprit, it took them three days before they could locate the man; and another three days before Kuroda called, informing of Asami's release. By then, Asami had almost spent six days in police detention.
He wanted to go with Toru but knew that it would be wise if he didn't. He wasn't sure what to talk to Asami anyway. So he resorted to cooking and cleaning in the penthouse.
As night fell, Akihito began to feel restless and worried. There had been no phone calls from Toru about Asami. He wondered if there had been a problem since Detective Matsumoto didn't look like a person who would give up so easily.
Perhaps the results of the prints came back positive and Matsumoto held Asami back? Or did Inspector Mori catch the wrong guy? Did Kase lied about the serpent tattoo?
Akihito glanced at the time on his phone.
9 p.m.
It had been four and a half hours since Hasegawa went to pick up Asami, Kirishima and Suoh from the station. He had to distract himself or he'll go insane thinking about 'what ifs'
What the hell is taking them so – click
The door unlocked and in walked in Asami with Kirishima. For a man who had spent the last six days in police lock up, he didn't look any different. Still formally clad with the clothes from the day of his arrest, the white shirt he wore was unbuttoned sufficiently to display his well-toned chest. His hair reminded Akihito of when he had just stepped out from the shower. It was slightly messy but sexy nonetheless.
In some weird unexplainable way, Akihito thought Asami looked formidable and pretty damn good.
"Akihito," he greeted and waved at Kirishima. The secretary immediately retreated, allowing privacy to Akihito and Asami.
"Y—yo, you're finally back," Akihito said nervously. Still guilt ridden, Akihito was unsure what he should say next. He wanted to apologize but all he did was jerking his thumb to the table. "You want dinner?"
Asami removed his coat. "I'll have my shower before that."
He nodded and watched Asami disappeared into the master room. Akihito sat on the couch, thinking how to ease the awkwardness between them.
Should I apologize? Of course you have to, you dumb ass. You put him in the prison! Akihito scolded himself. Despite knowing that he had to apologize, he didn't know how to begin. He sat still, staring into space until Asami emerged from the room in his shower robe.
And Akihito still hadn't found his solution.
"Why do you look so troubled?"
Akihito averted his eyes from the crime lord.
Asami sat next to the boy, nudged his chin up. "Akihito, look at me."
The boy did, only to avert his eyes again. "I'm sorry," he finally whispered. "It's my fault that you were remanded. If I didn't go to Sakazaki, you wouldn't –,"
"I was framed into this. Someone wanted to pass the blame to me."
"I heard from Toru," Akihito said glumly, pushing Asami's hands away. "But the fact that you were in trouble because of me doesn't change. I never wanted that to happen."
"Then, don't get involved unnecessarily. I warned you before Akihito. Think before you act because I'll destroy anyone that touches you."
"What did–" Akihito gulped before forcing the words out, "—you do to Sakazaki? The reports said he was –" the photographer covered his mouth.
Asami contemplated to tell Akihito the truth. But the boy was in no state of hearing it so he opted otherwise. "I had Toru and Suoh teach him a lesson and we left." He nudged Akihito's chin up again. "If you still feel guilty, then why not compensate me?"
"How?" The boy whispered.
"You can start by accompanying me to Sion for another week."
This time the wretched look on Akihito dissipated and the old Akihito was back. "I know what you're trying to do. I won't be coerced into it. I've done my part and did secretarial sex for three days."
"If you remember correctly, we were interrupted on the third day. Strictly speaking, you still owe me a day."
"You're seriously a bastard Asami," Akihito said but the weight on his shoulder immediately felt lighter.
The robe on Asami were slightly undone, causing Akihito's lips to go dry again. Without thinking, Akihito straddled his lover, pulling his robe free. Asami was naked under the robe.
Perfect
"I wasn't here for six days and you're making a move on me? I think I should travel more," the yakuza said in a rather amused tone.
The color on Akihito's cheeks deepened. "Shut up. We're only picking up where we let off from your office," he said, crushing their mouth together.
Asami pushed the boy away.
The boy looked surprised, even disappointed but Asami had no intentions of playing games. Picking Akihito up, Asami strode to the bedroom and dumped him onto the bed. Stripping the boy quickly, he hovered above him.
"It's been so long, Akihito."
Akihito pulled Asami down, crushing their lips together again. "Then fuck me, Ryuichi."
As Asami spread Akihito's legs and thrust home, he watched the boy went wild under him. He smirked. It's good to be home."
OMAKE
"Asami sama, welcome back."
Asami surveyed his men in his home office. It was after two in the morning and Akihito was asleep in the master bedroom, well sated and spent. He would have let his subordinates rest after a hectic day but there were pressing matters that needed to be discussed so he called Suoh, Kirishima, Toru and Ando to his office.
"Toru, I was told by Mori that you identified the main culprit?"
Toru bowed. "It was a joint effort, Asami sama. Inspector Mori, Kuroda sensei, Ando and I worked closely to locate him. But without Takaba sama's information, none of this would be possible."
"Takaba sama?" Kirishima asked.
Toru nodded at his senior. He explained Akihito's plans to Asami, leaving no details about the undercover mission in the bar. By the time he was done, he spotted a smirk on Asami's face.
"How did he pay?" Asami asked, looking at his subordinate.
"With the extracted black diamond. He traded it in exchange for information and sir –," Toru halted, wondering if he should continue.
The crime lord didn't miss the lanky guard's hesitation. "Go on," he urged but his tone went ice.
Toru bowed again. "I spotted a bite mark on Takaba sama's left ear. I tried asking him about it but he shrugged me off. I suspected Kase bit him."
"I noticed the bite mark," Asami said and the office went silent before he spoke again. "Any indication that the bar owner did anything to him?"
"No, sir. According to Takaba sama, Kase wanted sexual favors in exchange for information but Takaba sama turned him down. Takaba sama counter offered with the black diamond and he accepted."
Satisfied with the response, the crime nodded. He accepted a glass of whisky from Kirishima and gulped it down, welcoming the strong taste in his mouth. "What about the assassin?"
"Sir, after thorough research, I believe he was an assassin sent by Goda Orochi from the Goda-kumi."
"How did you find out?" Suoh asked. "Did Mori make the bastard talk?"
Before Toru could answer, Asami did. "The serpent tattoo."
The lanky guard took it from there. "Goda's first name, Orochi shares the same meaning as a serpent."
"Sir," Suoh stepped forward, worried. "Mori can charge the bastard for murder but I doubt he'd admit slicing Sakazaki's dick off."
"Suoh san, I've passed the knife we used to Inspector Mori. He'll be planting the evidence in the assassin's house when they search it later. Inspector Mori has given assurance that they will charge him with both murder and mutilation."
Asami retrieved a cigarette, lit it. "He is likely to protest but even if he did, the judge would think he's lying."
"Good work, Toru," Suoh said, smacking his junior's arm.
Toru bowed in response. Kirishima stepped forward, pouring his boss a glass of whisky.
"Sir, what do we do about Goda Orochi? His act cannot go unpunished."
The crime lord nodded. He took the glass offered by Kirishima and downed the liquid. Lips curved into a dangerous smile, he said, "We'll bring him down in worse ways that he can imagine."
Omake Part II
Kuroda Shinji sat comfortably in Club Sion's private lounge, waiting for Asami to arrive. It was late, nearly two in the morning but Club Sion showed no signs of slowing down. He sipped his martini served by a private bartender, watched the people dancing below from the large glass panels.
Kuroda checked his time – half an hour after the agreed time.
He didn't mind the wait. In fact, he was quite comfortable with the expensive drinks and top notch service he was receiving from the manager. He thought of getting the bartender to pour him another glass when the door opened.
Asami walked in, flanked by Suoh and Kirishima.
"Shinji," Asami greeted and took his seat on a single, plush sofa.
"Ryuichi," he greeted, placing his drink on the small table beside him.
Asami accepted his drink from the bartender and dismissed him. "How did the case go?"
Kuroda passed a file to Asami. "The culprit is Umeki Shin, a member of the Goda clan. He killed Sakazaki after you left the club. None of the fingerprints lifted from the scene belonged to you, Kirishima, Suoh or Umeki. Most of them were Sakazaki's. But Mori's team found a few hair samples near Sakazaki and they were positively identified as Umeki's."
Asami stared at the mug shot of the man. The assassin was a young, lean man who looked no more than thirty in the photo. The serpent tattoo stretched from the nape of his neck to just below the ear, and the green snake looked like it was coiling around a small animal, ready to devour its victim.
"He's young, which explains his stupidity," Kuroda continued, took his drink and sipped it. "But all thanks to that, we're able to track him down."
"Is Mori looking into the Goda clan?" Asami asked, passing the folder back to Kuroda.
"Not really. He knew you wanted Goda's head on your platter so he didn't look into that. On my part, I only need the evidence and his motive to frame you for the murder."
Asami nodded. "Good work, Shinji." He turned to Kirishima and the secretary immediately produced a small package. He passed it to Kuroda.
Kuroda took the package, opened it to find the book he wanted. He smiled. "You always knew where to find the good ones."
Asami smirked. "They're rare but not impossible to find."
Kuroda ran his fingers along the edges of the book. "Takaba asked about our relationship."
"And?"
"I told him that we're family."
Asami offered a small smile. "Did he say anything else?"
"He looked flabbergasted, and wanted to ask more but I left soon after." Kuroda looked at Asami. "You've come a long way, Ryuichi. You grew up in the orphanage, swore that you'd never wanted to be poor again and you succeeded."
"We succeeded, Shinji," Asami corrected.
Kuroda downed his drink and accepted another glass from Kirishima. "We did," he agreed and raised his glass.
Asami took his glass, and they toasted.
Kuroda downed his drink and stood up. He took his briefcase, headed to the door. "Ryuichi?" he said looking back at Asami. "I'm beginning to understand what you see in Takaba. He has –," Kuroda halted, trying to find a suitable word to describe. "—something," he said finally.
Asami merely smirked and continued looking at the patrons dancing.
Translations: Coke is short for Cocaine.
A/N: I don't know much about the relationship between Kuroda and Asami. Many of you wanted me to write Akihito meeting Asami's family but I cannot imagine Asami having a normal family so I decided to add my own twist here. I will explore more about their relationship in the next chapter.
A/N 2: Since I do not know much about Japanese laws, I quoted the laws of my country in the fiction. Here, the police actually have the power to remand a person to assist an investigation without charging him/her for a period of seven days. Of course, they have to obtain approval from the court but it is usually granted.
A/N 3: Thank you so much for all your support! I'm really sorry that I haven't had time to write down all your names here but I know who you are!