A/N:Hey guys! Long time no update! Well not as long as I've done in the past but long enough! Sorry! I had a lot going on! First I had to move into a new house and that was hectic, then new and different stuff started happening at work! Then the Supernatural (tv show) Genderswap Audio adaptation project I'm co-directing and co-staring in took off like a bang! We hit over 10,500 downloads on or podcast site! (To us that is huge). And remember Dai-chan loves Supernatural! To top it off my sister introduced me to a new book series that I fell so hard for I ended reading the first 10t books in less then two weeks! I finished book 10 right before book 11 was released! So yeah I've had a lot going on so I literally had no time to work on this! But it's back! I do apologize if the length isn't that good nor the content. Throughout the moving I lost all my notes for the story so I had to write a majority of it from scratch!

Disclaimer: Nope don't own them. I have something better in mind right now.

Chapter 15: Promises, Decisions and Negotiations

The grip Mao had on his phone weakened causing the device to fall from his hand. Hearing the 'thud' it made as it landed on the table, brought Mao back to reality and he felt his face slightly flush when he realized he was still leaning against Daisuke.

The handsome actor noticed the redness in the other boy's face and he slowly let go of Mao after sitting him down in the chair the ebony-haired youth had previously been occupying prior to the call. "Mao, did you say your brother was coming here?"

It took Mao several moments to even decipher the fact that he was being addressed. Finally he made eye-contact with Daisuke, but suddenly words became his enemy and he found he could not speak properly. Unable to voice an answer he merely nodded.

Daisuke took no offense, figuring his assistant was merely in shock over the news. Under normal circumstances, Daisuke was sure Mao would have been happy to hear of the news of his brother's pending arrival. But considering the previous events and situations Mao had been enduring, the news was no doubt, not exactly unwelcoming, but unprepared for. Then again for all they knew, Mao's brother was only coming to check up on his younger sibling.

Keimiko had stayed silent, unsure of what advice one might give in a situation like this and she knew Daisuke shared her suffering in this dilemma. What could one say to an individual during circumstances such as these? Finally she reached over and placed a hand on her 'cousin's' own, "Mao, perhaps your brother simply wants to check up on you in person. I mean most siblings are concerned for the wellbeing of their younger members of the family are they not?"

Mao had not heard his brother's voice for almost a month. Not because he had avoided calling, but because his brother's profession would not allow them to converse as often as they had intended and hoped. On top of that he had his classes and before the incident, he had his job at the restaurant. So hearing that his brother was coming to see him in person had thrown the younger Hamao sibling into shock.

He almost had not heard Keimiko's words, but somehow the statement made it's way past his spaced out mind, "I hope you are right. I had hoped to keep my personal problems to myself and not bother my family but-"

Daisuke did not bother to hide back his sigh, "So you even pull those stunts with your own family." He allowed his normal calm eyes to narrow, "Why is it so difficult for you to accept help?"

Both Mao and Keimiko were taken back by Daisuke's outburst, but neither said anything in return.

Daisuke realized what he had just said he stood up with a murmured, "Excuse me" before walking away. He was not surprised when he saw Hinosaku following him but keeping a good distance. Daisuke felt grateful for the gesture. He knew Hinosaku was only doing his job and was glad the younger man kept his distance at the same time.

Mao's eyes closed tight and he held back the whimper threatening to escape his lips, "He ha-'

"Don't you dare let those words leave your lips or so help me I will make you regret even thinking them." Keimiko threatened. Normally she hated doing that, but she knew desperate times called for desperate measures. And the situation was way beyond desperation now, "Dai-chan has told you before how he feels about you. One minor thing is not going to change what is in his heart. Do you doubt him so deeply?'

Mao knows the words that Keimiko spoke were true and he physically reveals being drained, "I do not mean to doubt him. I just find it hard to believe in his reasons for claiming to love me. Then again he never told me the reasons behind his feelings."

"Do you not believe him?" Keimiko asked.

"I believe him, I just do not understand why." Mao answered truthfully.

"And what about you? Do you know how you feel about him?" Keimiko interrogated.

"I dare not respond to that question, because the answer I will admit will not be completely honest." Mao spoke as he reached for his glass of water.

"Fair enough. But keep in mind there is only so long I will let Dai-chan suffer like that." Keimiko responded taking a sip of her own water. "I have known Daisuke for several years now, and never once has he shown an interest in anyone as deeply as he has you. You light a spark in him like nothing I have ever seen before and if you have no intention whatsoever to keep that spark alight, then I see no reason for you to stay in Daisuke's life."

"Isn't that for Dai-chan to decide?" Mao argued sitting up now, eyes glaring at the woman.

"Do you want to stay with him?"

"I do but only if-"

"No," Keimiko interrupted, "No, 'buts' Do you want to stay with him?"

"I-" Mao started finally realizing where Keimiko was going with this, "I want to stay with him yes. But I- he held his hand up to stop her from speaking, "I have kept my problems to myself for years. It is a habit that is not going to suddenly be brought to a halt overnight. I know myself better than anyone. So yes I am still going to feel I owe Daisuke for all he has done for me. And I make no guarantees that I will not feel the needs to return all the kindness he has shown, expected of me or not. But I will do what I can to accept what he chooses to share with me and not fear of being expected to return the gesture in spades."

Keimiko's face lit up, "That is exactly what I wanted to hear." she reached over placing a hand on the other boy's shoulder, "I am sorry if I sounded harsh, but it was the only way I knew to get through to you."

Mao blinked in surprise, "You mean you are not angry with me?"

Keimiko laughed softly, "No of course not. I was acting."

"You did a very convincing job." Mao observed, "You actually made me think you were mad."

"Well I will not deny I was a little upset with what you were going to say about Dai-chan's feelings for you, or rather what you thought they were turning into. " Keimiko admitted, "But I am asking you to accept Dai-chan's feelings for you. You do not have to return them unless and until you are ready to do so should you feel the need. But I meant what I said earlier. I have never seen him this happy with anyone before. You are like the missing piece of a puzzle in his life he has been determined to complete."

Hearing that made Mao blush, "I do not think I can accept them when I feel I do not deserve it."

"Then I will ask you again, what must I do to prove to you, that you do deserve it."

Both Keimiko and Mao glanced up to see Daisuke standing before them having returned from his unannounced destination. Hinosaku had followed and was now sitting at the table a few feet away from the one occupied by the two actors and assistant. Takeda sat at the same table. Both were professional enough not to draw attention and appeared to be old friends catching up over lunch.

The question hung in an invisible thread threatening to smack Mao in the face unless he provided a solution. Only problem was, he could not answer because he did not know. Finally he looked down at his hands, "Why do you love me?"

That question stopped Daisuke cold and he found he could not speak for a moment. Then again would it be possible to put his feelings into actual words? He suddenly realized why Mao doubted his right to be loved by him.

Mao was not surprised by Daisuke's response and he chuckled dryly, "Tell you what; if you can clearly tell me why you have feelings for me, I will consider the fact I deserve them."

"Sounds fair." Daisuke finally spoke, "But for now, please accept the fact that I want you near me, even if it's just as a friend."

"Oh friendship I have no problem accepting." Mao responded, "It is the deeper feelings you claim to have."

Keimiko only shook her head, "Watching you two is quite the show."

"Well I did mention to Takeda that I feel as if I am living the life of a character in a drama. So that does not come to much of a surprise to me, to be honest." Mao chuckled as he took a sip of his water.

"Now that we have everything settled for the moment, let's eat." Daisuke suggested, "And Mao when we return home, there is something I wish to discuss with you."

"Oh, Mao, did your brother claim when he would be arriving?" Keimiko asked remembering the earlier subject of conversation.

Mao glanced up from the menu having resumed his search for his choice of cuisine, "Oh, he said he will be here tomorrow. He has some business to take care of then he is taking the train and plans to spend at least 3 days here. Besides visiting me he has some business to take care of the city too." He turned to look at Daisuke.

Daisuke met the boy's gaze and smiled, "Do not worry, everything will work out. I am not leaving your side."

Keimiko nodded, "Same here. We will not abandon you, we promise."

Mao blushed lightly as he looked down, "Thank you."

Daisuke could not help but admire how blushing made Mao look adorable, but he chose not to voice his thoughts, "Well let's eat then head home."

Once their meal was complete and for appearance sake, Keimiko and Daisuke went into a few stores, so Daisuke could byu his 'girlfriend' a gift, the three went their separate ways.

"It is pretty funny that Takeda-san and Hinosaku-kun both live near your apartment building." Mao said as he followed Daisuke to the train.

"It works out in our favor, so I have no reason to complain." Daisuke responded as he saw both their bodyguards following not too far behind.

"I am grateful for their presence," Mao admitted quietly, "Not that I do not feel safe with you I just-"

"Mao, calm down. I know what you meant." Daisuke chuckled as he glanced behind him, "Be right back." he said as he turned heel and made his way to their 'shadows'.

Mao watched, in confusion as Daisuke spoke with the other two men whom in turn nodded and started going their separate ways. His confusion was still evident on his features when Daisuke returned to him, "Dai-chan?"

"I told those two we are heading home so their services were no longer required for the night." Daisuke explained, "Turns out Takeda needs to talk to his brother and Hinosaku has to report in. I figure it is only a fifteen-minute walk from the station to my apartment and the streets are pretty busy around this time of night. So we should be safe on our own. I don't think anyone will try to target us when there are too many witnesses."

Mao nodded in understanding as he scanned his pass and went through the line before waiting for Daisuke to do the same. Once they were through they boarded the train and sat down.

25 minutes later the train pulled up to their destination and they clamored off with a few other passengers. Daisuke stopped when he realized Mao had stopped following him, "Mao, are you okay?"

Mao shook his head, as if attempting to erase a bad memory or visual, "Yes, sorry I thought I saw him."

Daisuke immediately moved closer, wanting the other boy to be at the least amount of distance necessary, "Are you sure?"

Mao shook his again, this time in response to the question, "No. I am not. But I think after what has happened my subconscious is starting to dredge him up." he glanced down, "I am sorry."

"You have nothing to apologize for." Daisuke spoke softly, "Now come on, let us go. I still have to discuss something important with you when we arrive home."

"Is it important enough that it cannot wait until I take a bath?" Mao asked.

"Well actually, I know you have told me in the past you think better when you are in the bath and well I-" Daisuke trailed off, "What I want to talk to you about is going to take some thinking and perhaps the best time will be when you are soaking."

Mao nodded, now understanding, "Okay. But first we have to get home."

Daisuke did not bother hiding the smile when he heard Mao address his apartment as 'home'.

After everything that had happened, Mao had offered to try to get a new place, but Daisuke would not hear of it. He had claimed Mao would be safer with him. Nanaku-sensei, Takeda, Tatsuki and Keimiko all agreed with the handsome actor and Mao had known he was no match for their opinions.

Over the past two weeks, the two occupants of the apartment had fallen into a pattern. Before the meetings and discussions for the movie had started, Daisuke had enjoyed sleeping in an extra hour while Mao often made breakfast. The college student's classes ended just before lunch most days, so the two met in the afternoon for the 2nd meal of the day. Finally they would make dinner together Daisuke would read or update his social media accounts, and Mao would work on any lessons and study until he was on the verge of falling asleep and using his notes as a pillow. As instructed earlier and as part of his job, Mao helped Daisuke with his lines. The more they practice the more Daisuke became assured that Mao could easily have become an entertainer if he had not chosen his current career goal.

The topic of Daisuke's feelings for Mao had not surfaced during those days, but Daisuke had decided to keep them on the back burner for now. But when the subject of Mao keeping burdens on his own shoulders had surfaced, it had struck a chord in Daisuke, which had been why he had stormed off. Luckily for him it seemed Mao had forgotten about it.

When they arrived at the apartment two balls of fur meowing for attention immediately greeted them. Mao headed into the kitchen to refill the water bowls and check on the dry food toys, "No wonder they greeted us like that. Their eggs are empty."

Daisuke hung up his keys before heading into the kitchen, "Hard to believe Roku took to Angel so well. I figured as a Tom cat he would be a bit aggressive."

Mao knelt down to pet his best friend, "No, only some male cats are aggressive." He moved to pet Angel as well, "In a few more months we will have to get her fixed. Otherwise we will be bothering the neighbors."

Daisuke chuckled understanding what Mao was referring too, "Boy am I glad human girls do not go through that. They are annoying enough as it is during 'that time'. My sister was proof." He joked.

"Do not let Keimiko hear you say that. She would chew your head off." Mao pointed out chuckling as well.

"She would do it anyway." Daisuke responded causing the two of them to bust out laughing for several minutes.

Once they had both calmed down, Daisuke took a seat on the sofa, gesturing to Mao to do the same, "Mao, I have a favor to ask of you. And you have every right to say no and it will not change anything. However, I request that you hear me out first, let me get the whole explanation out before you decide."

Mao was now worried and he did not bother to hide it from his features.

Daisuke immediately noticed and he reached over to place a hand on Mao's shoulders, "It is nothing bad, I promise."

Mao visibly relaxed at that statement, "Okay, I am listening."

Daisuke nodded in thanks, "Okay, I do apologize if my words seem jumbled or out of order. I only thought of this just before you had arrived at the studio today." He cleared his throat as if to give himself a few more seconds to decide how to word his next thoughts, "You are familiar with Blade of Shadows, correct?"

Mao nodded, "Yes, I have read it in the past."

"Then you know all the characters, correct?" Daisuke asked.

"Yes, and I know you are casted for the lead role of Mamoru." Mao responded.

"Yes, all the roles have been cast except for one. That role is the younger brother of the empress; And Morishiku-san has told me they are having some difficulties finding the right actor to portray the role."

Mao once again allowed his confused features to become visible, "I do not understand."

Daisuke took a deep breath, "I have already discussed it with Morishiku-san and Takemoto-san, but until we find the right actor to play the role I was wondering if you could be a stand in."

"You are talking about Yuuto, correct?" Mao asked softly as he walked over to Daisuke's bookshelf and removed the copy of 'Blade of Shadows.' He began to flip through the book and stopped when he reached one of the lines spoken by Yuuto, "It does not matter whom is occupying the throne, what matters is what is being done for our country."

Daisuke smiled as he pushed himself from the sofa and stepped forward, "Remember that day when you told Morishiku-san and Takemoto-san that and I quote, 'It's not the role itself that matters, it's the actor playing the role'?"

Mao looked at him confused. Where was he going with this? "I still do not understand."

"Think about the line you read of Yuuto's and think of what you said earlier." Daisuke instructed.

Mao did as he was told before opening his eyes in realization, "I was not trying to I mean it was not-" he shook his head, "Is that the reason you want me to do this?"

"It is one of the reasons, but not the main one." Daisuke responded, "To be honest Yuuto's character is best known to spend time with the animals. And since your main goal in life is to help them, I figured well-"

It was finally starting to make sense. Daisuke wanted Mao to have an expanded education, and maybe get some extra credit with his classes. And since he would be spending most of the time on the set they would be able to keep him close and protected. Also until they found the right actor, Takemoto-san and Morishiku-san would not have to work around the scenes involving Yuuto. It was a win-win-win situation.

"I will need to speak with my professor first." Mao finally answered.

"Already taken care of." Daisuke answered smiling, "He said as long as you attend your classes you will be allowed to do this. If it interferes with your classes you will have to drop the part. And since you will be on the set anyway I figured you would enjoy something that would entertain you."

Mao nodded, "Sounds fair to me."

"Then it settles it." Daisuke walked over to his jacket where he had left his cellphone, "I just need to contact Morishiku-san and tell him you will do it."

"Are they going to be okay with me on the set like that?" Mao quiered, "I have been under the impression they are still weary of me."

"Oh, do not worry about that, Mao. I have spoken with them, explained everything and they understand now. And they know that if they treat you poorly in anyway, I will drop the part on the spot." Daisuke answered before turning so Mao could not say anything more on the matter, "Now go on and take your bath. I will take one after you re finished. We best get to bed early tonight. You do not have classes tomorrow if I am not mistaken, but I am expected on set at 8am. Will you need to meet your brother anywhere specific?"

"Yes he told me to meet him at the station and he and I would have lunch." Mao explained, "I texted him early to confirm his arrival time. He told me he wants to see me first for lunch then he'll take care of business. Then afterwards he wishes to see me again. He told me has something to discuss with me."

"I see, we will have to inform Takeda-san tomorrow with the plans." Daisuke spoke searching for Morishiku's number.

"Um, Dai-chan do you think it will be necessary for Takeda-san to be guarding me with my brother so close tomorrow?' Mao inquired.

Daisuke stopped in mid-scroll and turned to look at Mao, "I suppose not. But as soon as you and your brother depart from each other I expect you to contact Takeda. He will accompany you to the set. And do not worry about your duties. Hinosaku can take over for you briefly. Family comes first when it comes to working for me. Family and education so do not worry."

Mao beamed as he pushed himself from the sofa and headed towards the bathroom. So much was happening that a nice hot bath was exactly what he needed right now.

Later on that night Daisuke leaned against the doorframe of the guest-no- Mao's room, "It is way past midnight. You going to sleep anytime soon?"

Mao had been up reading 'Blade of Shadows' and his attention was snatched when he heard Daisuke address him, "I do not know if I can. I am worried about tomorrow."

Daisuke stepped into the room and sat on the edge of the bed. Roku, having spent the past few nights in Daisuke's room, came bounding in and hopped up onto Mao's lap. Angel was already sound asleep on the corner of Mao's bed, "About your brother right?"

Mao nodded as he put the book to the side and pet Roku's fur a few times, "Yeah. I have not seen him since Christmas last year. We have talked on the phone whenever I was not busy with classes and my job though so it was not like I have not heard from him since then."

"From what you have told me, before we met you barely had a moment to yourself." Daisuke confirmed, "So how often did you actually talk to him?"

Mao's eyes dropped, "He knew I was busy with my classes and work. He praised me for staying on top of things."

"And by doing that the result was you fainting." Daisuke reminded.

"It was not like it was planned!"

Daisuke moved closer placing a hand on Mao's shoulder to calm him down, "I know Mao. Something like that could never be planned. But tell me; did your brother say why he was coming?"

"As I mentioned he said he had business to take care of here and he wanted to discuss something with me. He's already booked a hotel."

"Well, you should give him a call first thing in the morning. Tell him to cancel his reservation." Daisuke urged.

"Why?"

"It is only natural I invite my roommate's brother to stay with us while he is in the area." Daisuke explained.

"Oh, I do not think he will take you up on your offer." Mao responded pulling his knees up to his chest and enveloping his legs with his arms, "My brother is very business and he usually stays in hotels that make a statement."

Daisuke nodded in understanding, "I see. Well let him know the offer is open if he does change his mind." He pushed himself off the bed. He had put in too much momentum and started falling forwards. By instinct Mao leaned forward to catch Daisuke, wrapping his arms around the older man's waist and pulled him back.

"Careful!"

Daisuke felt himself falling backwards this time and he turned his body in mid-air in hopes to avoid crashing on Mao. By doing this he had pulled Mao along with him causing the younger to be pulled into his arms.

Mao's face darkened a crimson shade as he realized the potion they had ended up in. He started to pull away with an apology on his lips, "I'm sorry I-"

Daisuke closed his eyes, pulling his arms tighter around Mao's body keeping him locked in the embrace, "Just for a moment. Please." he whispered.

Mao knew what Daisuke was referring to. Daisuke's feelings had not waned since they last spoke about the subject. Besides at the hospital, Daisuke had not tried to do anything physically romantic with him. So him being embraced, at first was a bit of a shock. But Daisuke had kept his distance on the subject as well as he could, so Mao decided he'd allow Daisuke this moment if it would tide him over, "Just a moment?" he asked softly.

"You already know if I could hold you longer I would." Daisuke murmured softly.

Curosity got the better of Mao and he slightly tilted his head up, "How long would you want to?"

"What do you mean?" Daisuke questioned, uncertainty evident in his voice.

"I mean if I gave you permission to hold me, how long would you want to?"

"Oh," Daisuke responded softly, "Well if given the chance, I'd hold you forever. But I'd be more than happy with just a night."

Mao sighed as he wrapped his arms tighter around Daisuke's torso, "Okay, he whispered, "Let us get comfortable and just for tonight I will let you hold me."

Daisuke slowly started to move away from Mao but stopped when he felt the younger's embrace tighten even more, "Mao?"

"I am being selfish. I do not think I will be able to sleep tonight if I am alone. I am too worried about so many things. My mind is in complete chaos. So, please, stay with me." Mao whispered.

Daisuke slowly let go this time only just enough so he could adjust their positions. Soon they were lying comfortably on the bed, "Sleep." he murmured softly kissing the top of Mao's forehead, "If me being here with you will calm you, then I will stay the night."

Mao nodded, "Thank you."

Daisuke watched as Mao's eyes slowly closed and soon his breathing had patterned out to soft pants indicating he had indeed fallen asleep. The older man was grateful. He knew Mao had been having nightmares and sleep had not been as cooperative as he had liked. But he had also told himself if Mao wished to speak to him about them he would come to him. For now though he hoped his presence would stave off any nightmares, at least for the night. If it did, he knew he would suggest he stay with Mao every night until the nightmares subsided, if they ever do.

A/N: Cliffy or no? I am not sure myself! Well guys next chapter we will meet my version of Hamao Shunnosuke. I'm wondering what do you think Shunnosuke wants to talk to Mao about? Do you think Leiko will be back? Has anyone figured out the pattern yet? Its' still going! Please please please give me an answer in your reviews! And be sure to look forward to my other characters appearing more! Trust me you're going to want to see more of them! 4 reviews= chapter 16! And I will do my best to get the next chapter up before the end of August!