shimizu yuki [at] livejournal

[MOD Announcement] Friends-locking the community

2007-02-14T22:18:12Z

Hi All,

Following a discussion among the moderators of this community, it has been decided that due to the NC-17 content that is inherent in all Shimizu Yuki-sensei’s works, it would be prudent for the moderators to friends-lock this community to only allow members over the age of 18 to join.

To join the community:

1) State your age in a comment to this post, THEN...

2) Click here.

The moderators would also like to qualify that of course they are not God and so will be unable to totally verify and confirm your true and correct age. We are therefore entirely dependent on the representations of the members and should be absolved of all wrongdoing should anything untoward happen to any errant under-aged member as a result of joining the community. In other words, lie at thy own peril. ^___^

Thank you!

[fic] Undercover - Mentoring Program

2007-02-09T20:17:10Z

Egads, it looks like I'm spamming the community with fics...

Undercover
Author: Amaniblue
Fandom: View Finder/Love Mode Crossover Comedy
Main Pairings: Asami x Takaba; Jin x Katsuki
Rating: R; slight bondage, smex, cursing and bit of drug reference
Disclaimer: Unbetaed. The legal rights to these very fine characters belong to Yuki Shimizu and Yamane Amano. Only the OC characters are of my own creation.

Summary: Takaba Akihito applies for a host position and havoc ensues.

AN: I’m on a roll! This plot is just too delicious to write. I couldn’t stop typing. Thank you for the wonderful reviews. I hope this chapter lives up to your expectations. ^_^

This fic takes place before the Naked Truth arc and right after Katsuki joined Blue Boy in Volume 7. So enjoy!

02: Mentoring Program

At the conclusion of Blue Boy’s full week of open candidacy, all eight alternating interviewers along with the two division managers were requested to attend a meeting with the owner and his personal assistant at the executive conference room located on the same floor of the owner’s office.

In the history of Blue Boy, such a meeting was unprecedented to begin with. Unfortunately it was necessary. In the past year alone, Blue Boy’s number one uke had retired due to heart problems while the number two uke has signed a long term exclusive contract with a renowned supermodel. Also both number one and two seme are semi-retired as well. In addition to these losses, Blue Boy’s reputation for quality escorts was under fire from the competition as newer gay host clubs emerged within Shinjuku. A few of their hosts had even jump ship with the promise from the rise of such competitors for a higher status as number one host and a higher salary as well as side perks. Due to these changes, Blue Boy had lost a few of their clienteles to these new fares.

Aoe Reiji, said owner of Blue Boy, would have liked to forgo the sordid business altogether in his personal opinion. However, that was not an option. He had begrudgingly vowed to his late father to carry on his empire and despite his abhorrence to do it, Reiji always honors his word. And since he’s given his word, he can’t help but strive for the top. So with such vacancies to fill, the campaign for refreshing and alluring new faces was conducted.

From the two hundred applicants that applied, only ninety-seven made the first cut from the interview process. However after their references and background history was checked out, only two-thirds passed the second cut with a quarter of the applicants still on the in-need-of-more-information list. They had managed to weed out the weirdoes, along with quite a few sex offenders and criminals, even a handful of nosy reporters very easily. All in all, the number of possible candidates looked quite promising in their favor. They were bound to find a few diamonds in the rough.

The two managers were hopeful as they presented applicant after applicant to the owner via numerical order. Unfortunately, Aoe Reiji immediately discarded the first five upon just opening up the folder and seeing their pictures. A few more files later, he spent a couple of minutes reading over their profile before they too were discarded into the pile listed as unacceptable. Thus the owner continued this process for ten more profiles and still none were chosen as acceptable. Both managers shared a concerned look with each other before they turn to the most senior host from the group of interviewers for his interception.

Kuniaki Jinnai caught their imploring glances and smirked in amusement as he lit a stick of cigarette. He sank back into the comfy leather chair, closed his eyes and waited as he smoked lazily.

It was eight o’clock in the evening when the large stack of application forms were whittled down to twenty profiles that had yet to be reviewed. Of the forty that was perused, only five were actually consulted upon and discussed among the group. Out of these five, only four were deemed acceptable by the owner in the end.

“Next, is number sixty-nine, owner. He’s quite a remarkable fellow,” cheered the manager that oversees the uke division. The three hosts that interviewed the applicant perked up in unison upon hearing the number and nodded in agreement.

Reiji raised a brow at their eager expressions and open up the folder to see for himself. A grin appeared suddenly and disappeared, but the three hosts and manager caught the rare gesture and smiled to each other. That grin reappeared when Reiji took another look at the photos taken from the hidden cameras and reread the profile on the applicant. For the person to project such candor and friendliness to have such a sexual profile, Reiji’s interest was piqued.

“He’s fascinating to watch. Very animated and blushes very easily,” supplied one of the three hosts.

“Yes, very opened too. I think he’s adorable and kind of kinky,” declared another.

“I think he has a lot of potential,” the other jumped in as well.

Reiji couldn’t help but find their enthusiasm on the boy amusing since his hosts were taught to remain aloof most of the time. He couldn’t help but agree with their assessment though. There was certainly potential. No doubt about it. From the applicant’s animated expressions to his appearance in formal wear and nakedness to his sexual profile, the boy was quite a find. However, there was a problem. Reiji frowned when he notice how little of the applicants background history was checked. The fellow barely qualifies to be placed in the stack before him. Upon further notice, just as he suspected, said applicant was on the list of those who needed further background checks. A thorough inspection could take months. To invest in the kid now was risky business. And that was something he couldn’t afford. Reiji was about to place the folder on a separate pile when his most senior host joined the fray.

“I would like to train him,” Jin stated without preamble.

Reiji turned towards the host and stared questionably. The man did not elaborate further however as he continued to smoke lazily with his eyes closed.

Amused by Jin’s rare offer to volunteer as trainer, Reiji promptly reminded the host of the circumstances, “He’ll need to be kept under tabs before we declare him work-able, Kuniaki.”

The host merely flashed him a wicked grin before he said, “that’ll be more than enough time, owner.”

“Hn.”

With that as the owner’s response, file number sixty-nine was placed with the other four folders as another was handed to the owner.

Three days later…

Takaba received a letter in the mail that was forwarded to him from his alias residence in the Gunma prefecture. He opened the manila envelope with dread as he perused the contents and release a heartfelt groan. Oh how he had hoped and wished that the offer would not come.

Two days later…

Takaba packed a duffle bag full of his essential belongings and bid his beloved cameras a tearful goodbye.

[fic] Undercover - Job Application

2007-02-08T08:58:09Z

Undercover
Author: Amaniblue
Fandom: View Finder/Love Mode Crossover Comedy
Main Pairings: Asami x Takaba; Jin x Katsuki
Rating: R; slight bondage, smex, cursing and bit of drug reference
Disclaimer: Unbetaed. The legal rights to these very fine characters belong to Yuki Shimizu and Yamane Ayano. Only the OC characters are of my own creation.

Summary: Takaba Akihito applies for a host position and havoc ensues.

AN: Cross-posted at Yamane Amano LJ community. First attempt at a View Finder fic with a Love Mode crossover at that. So I hope I do both series justice. I’m obsessed with View Finder since picking up the two English Translations last weekend. Can ya blame me though? (~_~)

Ah my fan girl mode is kicking in and I couldn’t get this plot bunny out of my head and they are multiplying like crazy.

This fic takes place before the Naked Truth arc and right after Katsuki joined Blue Boy in Volume 7. So enjoy!

01: Job Application

For the tenth time in the past hour, Takaba Akihito fidgeted in his seat yet again. It was truly nerve wrecking for him to sit there amongst a sea of… he didn’t know what to quite categorize these men but bishounen came to mind. There were all types lounging around the waiting room: from very tall and angular to short and androgynous-looking ones. All were decked out in their finest and most stylized suits he’s ever seen.

Takaba ventured another nervous glance at his own. He had begged his friend, Takato, to loan it to him. The dark pinstripe navy Hugo Boss two-piece suit was from the new Spring Collection, Takato had informed him with pride. Takaba had raised a brow in doubt when he first saw how thin it felt and how fragile it looked. But who was he to be the judge on fashion these days? His preferences tend towards vintage and street style. The only suit he had was a black two-piece from some unknown brand that he wore for everything formal. Unfortunately, he wasn’t able to wear it out in public again without embarrassment. Who knew semen stains are so tough to dry clean? Upon that thought, his memories of how the stain came to be cause him to blush most prettily.

“Number sixty-nine.”

Suddenly hearing his number being called, Takaba sprang up from his seat and announced a little too loudly in his nervous energy, “Here!”

A few of the more effeminate applicants giggled behind their hands while some of the taller ones snickered at him. Thinking that it was his actions that were the cause and not the number itself, Takaba’s already present blush deepened even further.

He flashed an apologetic grin at the lady attendant and she responded with a wide smile of her own.

“You’re a cute one. I hope they hire you.”

With that remark she signaled him to follow her down the long corridor and stopped behind a set of double doors. The attendant opened the doors, announced his presence then she motioned him to enter. Takaba gulped and exchange a bow with the attendant before he walked into the spacious conference room.

A panel of three interviewers, all handsome men themselves, sat on one side of the oval table. All wore an expressionless face with their expensive business attires. The man closest to him motioned Takaba to take a seat in front of them. Again, Takaba swallowed nervously as he took a seat.

The instant he sat down, they wasted no time to begin his interview.

“Because of the nature of the position, we would like to keep things anonymous until the application process is complete. We shall not waste your time. Please take our questionnaire seriously despite how it may sound.”

Without waiting for a verbal confirmation or a nod from Takaba, the panel began their session.

“Sexual orientation: bi or homo-sexual?”

He hadn’t expected that. Takaba could feel his entire body flushed with heat in hearing that question. The crazy thing was, it was the first question too. How was he to survive the rest? For a split second he’d thought about reneging on his word and just forget about the scoop but his journalism pride override his flight and flee instincts.

He really didn’t like the options and honestly didn’t want to ponder his sexual orientation at the moment. Was he gay? Just because his rapists were both men, does that make him a homo? His brows stitched together in frustration. This was a tough question.

A whole minute later, upon realizing that they were still waiting patiently for his answer, Takaba cleared his throat and stated the safest reply, “b—bi…”

“Seme or uke?”

Not quite understanding the question, he stuttered out, “Pa— pardon me?”

One of them politely repeated, “Seme or uke? Top or bottom?”

“Oh… um bottom,” Instantly, he realized what he’d just said and almost cried. It seems his flush was doom to remain. Takaba couldn’t do anything about it.

“Please reply yes or no to the following category: sexual preference.”

“Bondage?”

“…Yes.”

“Spanking?”

“…Yes.”

Thus, as the panel ticked off each item and following questions later, Takaba felt his mortification growing bigger and bigger while he felt smaller and smaller as he answered yes to almost all the questions.

A half hour later…

Takaba found himself being ushered immediately to the next room for part two of the interview. Unbeknownst to him, the panel of host interviewers had taken one look upon his entry through the doors and had already given their stamp of approval. Although they didn’t show it, they envied the lucky host for the next portion.

Takaba was quite relieved to relinquish the hot seat and was most anxious to move on. Unfortunately he didn’t expect the second phase to be much worse.

“Strip.”

“Wha—?”

The blond man who looks more like a foreigner than Japanese openly admired Takaba from head to toe and repeated, “Strip.”

For once in his freelancing career, Takaba Akihito thought he might be in over his head on an assignment as he reluctantly began to disrobe in front of this leering stranger.

Ten minutes later…

After the most silent, degrading, and thorough inspection of his person later, Takaba was again dressed and waiting alone in another room.

This time though, he didn’t have to wait long. Another lady attendant flagged his attention and motioned him to follow her. He was brought into a waiting elevator who took them to somewhere on the upper floors. The attendant directed him through another set of doubles doors and left. There he was greeted most enthusiastically by a mustached man in his early forties.

Takaba took that as a good sign, unfortunately for him, and bow awkwardly towards the man who’s obviously in charge. Despite making it this far though, that feeling of wanting to flee kept returning. Thus he continued his mantra in reminding himself of the promise he made to follow through with this assignment. He had a sinking feeling that his promise was about to be kept after all.

“You’ve charmed our interviewers most impressively. After we follow up on your references and do our routine background checks, you’ll be home free. So welcome to Blue Boy, Tanaka Aki.”

Takaba managed a nervous laugh as he bow in acceptance and couldn’t help to think, what had he gotten himself into.

Trials of the Heart II– part 7

2007-01-29T21:21:46Z

Title: Trials of the Heart II– part 7
Author: Amaniblue
Category/Genre: Angst
Main Pairings: Takamiya x Izumi; Reiji x Naoya
Rating: R – for the boy-smex, cursing and a bit of violence
Word count: ~ 1000
Disclaimer: The legal rights to these fine characters belong to Yuki Shimizu, lucky gal. Only the OC characters are of my own creation.

AN: Sorry about this part being so short. I could only write in spurts. Plus faster updates this way right? ^_^

I hope I didn’t disappoint you gals with this encounter. *keeps fingers crossed.*

~Takamiya’s POV~

Takamiya pulled out a torn piece of hotel note paper and confirmed the apartment number with the digits before him once more. He then placed the note back into his back pocket and rap on the door again. He had knocked on the beige door three times already but there was no response. Unfortunately there was no residential name tag in the placeholder by the door to indicate the current resident.

For a second there he was afraid that perhaps Sakashita-san may have caught on to the ruse and had given Naoya a false address so that she could continue to safeguard her son. Until that is, he heard the locks unclick from the other side. His heartbeat instantly doubled within his ribcage and his palms began to sweat. This is it, he thought.

Takamiya had rehearsed what he’d wanted to say on the long drive to this address. He had even pictured the different scenarios that might occur, including the possibility if Izumi wasn’t there, he would remain and do a stakeout. He was prepared for Izumi’s scathing anger and harsh words, even his physical attacks; however Takamiya wasn’t prepared for the scenario that happened.

The door opened to reveal a handsome young man with shaggy light brown hair that looked to be broader chest and slightly taller than Takamiya. His brow creased in confusion upon seeing this stranger in place of his Izumi.

“Can I help you?” The man inquired.

Remembering his manners, Takamiya cleared his throat and bow his head in greeting, “Pardon me for intruding your privacy at such a late hour. My name is Takamiya Katsura and I am looking for someone. I was informed that Sakashita Izumi lives here?”

The man quirked up a brow as if puzzled, then suddenly recognition lit his eyes and he takes a long look at Takamiya as if sizing him up. He folds his arms together in front of him and nonchalantly leans against the siding of the entrance and replies wryly, “Yes he does.”

Ignoring the man’s rudeness in disregarding the polite social greetings, Takamiya released a breath he didn’t know he was holding and sigh in relief. Elated by this confirmation, Takamiya inquired excitedly, “Is he home? May I speak to him?”

The other turns his head slightly back to look at the interior for a brief moment before he turns back to face Takamiya and a sneer curves the man’s lip up a corner.

He didn’t know for what reason this behavior stemmed from, but the translator did not like the challenging aura emanating from the young man at all. Takamiya especially did not like what the man seem to insinuate next.

“He’s… indisposed at the moment. We… had a long night.”

A sinking feeling tugged at Takamiya’s entrails upon the fellow’s words. This was all too surreal. His anxiety grew the more he stood there. Knowing that his Izumi was within reach and that this man he’s never seen before was blocking his way, Takamiya’s polite façade broke away. He frantically brushed pass the man and charged into the room, stopping abruptly as his eyes rounded in shock. The translator was arrested by the scene presented before him.

There he saw his Izumi in this dimly lit studio apartment, sleeping with his chest bare and lying beneath tousled sheets. His clothes were thrown haphazardly on the floor; Izumi was obviously naked. But what confirmed Takamiya’s worst fears even further was plastered on his Izumi’s face: the contented smile of a lover well satisfied glowed from his tinted cheeks. Takamiya was intimately familiar with this expression, for only a lover could have wrought this from him.

“…He has finally learned to move on.”

Sakashita-san’s words had haunted him earlier on and had been at the back of his mind the entire day. He wanted to laugh at the bitter irony of the outcome, but he couldn’t. There was nothing to laugh about. He’d seen for himself the piercing evidence of her words.

He wanted so badly to run towards Izumi and shake him awake, to ask his lover to deny the undeniable truth. He almost did as he took a step forward, but the person behind him spoke up.

“The poor boy is tired out. You can leave me your contact information and I’ll be sure to let Izumi-kun know that you stopped by when he wakes up in the morning.”

Takamiya closed his eyes tightly to shunt the onslaught of emotions bursting to come forth at the man’s words. He’d almost forgotten about this man, who obviously must be Izumi’s new lover. His fists tauten beside him upon this recognition.

I’ve truly lost him, Takamiya lamented inwardly. No amount of denial was going to change this. His brain had accepted the truth but his heart refused to accept.

I have to try, he thought desperately. If I can just only talk to him…

Wild in his resolve, Takamiya reopened his eyes and turned around to face his adversary. His piercing brown eyes gleamed from tears unshed and began his examination of the man before him most thoroughly. The disheveled form showed a hidden strength that was only revealed by the thinly suppressed challenge in the man’s eyes. Takamiya met those eyes with his own challenge.

Their dueling gaze lasted for only a brief moment when the man’s eyes and demeanor suddenly changed to show his amusement instead. The man even had the audacity to flash him a wry grin.

Confused by the man’s actions, Takamiya watched him warily. But his rival merely said, “Well?”

Takamiya found himself quickly annoyed by this man’s behavior. And to his dismay, the translator couldn’t do anything about it. In all appearance, this was a congenial visit of a friend. He couldn’t verily make a scene and disturb the peaceful night for the other residence of this compound. Besides, Izumi was sleeping soundly. Takamiya did not want to reunite with him in such a situation.

Defeated even by his own logic, Takamiya closed his eyes and breathed a deep sigh. He reopened them and began digging in his jacket pocket for the business card of the hotel he’s staying at. Next, he fished in his other pocket for a pen and wrote the room and phone number down on the back of the card. Takamiya then walked over to the fellow, handed him the card and left without another word.

Trials of the Heart II– part 6

2007-01-26T18:10:57Z

Title: Trials of the Heart II– part 6
Author: Amaniblue
Category/Genre: Angst
Main Pairings: Takamiya x Izumi; Reiji x Naoya
Rating: R – for the boy-smex, cursing and a bit of violence
Word count: ~1200
Disclaimer: The legal rights to these fine characters belong to Yuki Shimizu, lucky gal. Only the OC characters are of my own creation.

AN: Almost to the climatic scene. It seems awful of me to drag it out like this, but I think the story won’t make sense without these fillers. Hopefully it’ll all make sense at the end.

~Izumi’s POV~

Three sets of footsteps dogged behind them as the pair continued to increase their lead. Their pace was steady, though the ladies seem persistent. His friend turned his head swiftly to look behind him and he spat out an expletive, “Shit!”

He pause his steps, forcing Izumi to stop as well while he looked around the vicinity. Espying the desired route, Konno abruptly zipped to his left, dragging Izumi with him. They ran through a small thoroughfare and again, Konno abruptly dodged to his right into a dimly lit alleyway. He drew Izumi towards a stack of wooden crates and placed him behind it. Konno quickly hovered over Izumi’s slightly smaller frame, forcing his back against the wall.

Considering himself very much sober than before due to their quick run in the cool night air, Izumi’s reasoning faculties had yet to recover however.

“Konno, what are you do—mmph!”

He’d managed to say that much before his friend muffled his mouth with a large palm. Konno then pressed his own body flushed against Izumi’s and tucked his head on the nook of Izumi’s neck. His moist breath instantly tickled Izumi’s sensitive ear and nape.

Immediately, Izumi’s own breath hitched and his heartbeat increased. Heat suffused his body and his already flushed cheeks turned darker. Izumi tried to voice his objection but no words escaped as the wind was forced out of him when Konno pressed against him even further.

Footsteps could be heard heading their way and in the next moment, the sound directly ran passed them.

Konno waited until he was certain the coast was clear before he relent his hold on Izumi and stepped back a couple of steps.

Finally freed from his prior discomforting predicament, Izumi took a deep breath and released his inner brat as he blazed a trail of braising words at his friend’s audacity. “I couldn’t breathe, you idiot! Why the hell did you do that for?! I knew it! You were trying to kill me again! Weren’t you?!”

Instead of looking contrite, Konno took one look at Izumi’s blushing cheeks and began to chuckle. It soon turned to an all out grating laugh until the man had to brace a hand on the wall besides Izumi’s head to hold his self upright.

“Ha haha ha, oh man! That was classic… That’s the same look you had on when the girls jumped ya! Ha hahaha. It was hilarious!” His friend had managed to gasp out.

This only made Izumi even more flustered. For the life of him, he couldn’t think up the words to berate his friend any further. He wasn’t sure whether he wanted to laugh with him or sucker punch the guy.

Oblivious to Izumi’s conflicting thoughts and increasing ire, Konno continued to laugh until he finally got it out of his system. He slumped closer to Izumi and rested his head on Izumi’s shoulder while the man’s own continue to shake from his humor.

Izumi flinched at the contact and the previous shade of discomfort on his cheeks returned. His brows creased instantly and he directed a scowl at his friend. Undeterred by the hostile aura generating from him, Konno raised his head to gaze warmly down at Izumi.

Unsure of what to say of his friend’s uncharacteristic demeanor completely without artifice, Izumi continued to scowl at the man, even though confusion shown on his face.

Konno cocked his head slightly in questioning and a thoughtful glimmer shown within his eyes for a brief moment. The man murmured something to himself that Izumi thought sounded very much like, ‘what the hell am I thinking’. But before Izumi could make sense of it, his friend then flashed a genuine smile full of mirth towards him, “After all the dumb stuff I’ve done and my streak of bad luck this pass couple of months, I really needed a good laugh. Thanks, Sakashita.”

Izumi understood then, what his friend had meant. Likewise, ever since he’d run into Konno yesterday, his bouts of melancholy hadn’t returned at all. Despite his bluster about twice nearly dying by Konno’s hands, Izumi had enjoyed his friend’s company very much. Just like the good old days, there was really never a dull moment with the man around. But unlike the good old days though, Konno seems to have matured quite a bit and had gain an air of mystery somehow. I guess people do change, Izumi thought.

“Hmph,” Izumi made a sound of acknowledgement and dropped his scowl. He began to chuckle upon remembering the night’s events. “I had no idea what happened. One moment I was chatting with Kae-san and then the other two joined in. Then next thing I knew, they all tackled me and started pawing at me!”

Dazed by this recollection, Izumi shook his head briefly from side to side to clear his thoughts. His friend smirked in seeing his antics. “You still don’t know, do ya?”

“Huh?” Izumi remarked dumbly.

“Man, you’re clueless. You really don’t know what you did wrong, do ya?”

Not waiting for an answer, Konno pressed onwards. “Hn, I guess I’ll enlighten ya since you’ve only been with one woman for all this time.”

“Huh?” Izumi repeated.

Konno tsk at him and began his lecture, “First of all if you aren’t serious about the date, then don’t tell the truth or else you’ll present yourself as husband material.”

“Eh?”

Konno rolled his eyes and sighed. He threw an arm around Izumi’s shoulder and began guiding him back to the thoroughfare they darted from. As they walked, Konno continued his spiel, “I see this is going to take awhile, let’s go to another sake-ya. I’ll be happy to catch you up on modern dating rules, my friend.”

It was several hours later when Izumi found himself stumbling up the stairs to his apartment. If it weren’t for his friend aiding him along the way, he would never have made it pass the first step. His head swam from each movement but the lightheadedness felt good. A chortle bubbled up from his throat and his shoulder began to shake from the effort.

“You really can’t hold your liquor, man.” He faintly heard his friend say. Sleep was calling him and his head lulled on his shoulder to rest. Izumi’s eyes closed and his feet stopped cooperating. He was soon jolted from his quick nap when Konno failed to uphold both of their weight and had to shuffle against the wall of the corridor for support.

Izumi shook his head and raised droopy eyes to look at his friend. Konno’s mouth was moving but Izumi couldn’t make out a single word. He squinted at the man and shook his head again for clarity. Finally he heard, “Which apartment number?”

Izumi took a whole minute to understand the words before he raised a heavy arm to point at a door located on the very end of the corridor. Easily satisfied with his input, Izumi smiled smugly and his head returned to its’ previous position as his eyes closed once more.

When he managed to open his eyes once again, he found his head resting nicely on his bed and running water sounded in the background. Izumi raised his heavy head to follow the sound and saw Konno in the kitchen with a kettle in hand. A smile appeared on his face as his head dropped back on the pillow. A faint knock was the last thing he heard when the world turned dark and blissful slumber awaited him.

love mode unlimited

2007-01-20T14:48:59Z

Hello everyone, I need love mode unlimited scan in english. I find it all over the places, but the links all expired. Can someone tell me where I could get it or upload it for me, please.

PS. Are there any chapter of love mode after love mode unlimited. I hope to Know about the past of Shougo and Nishiki. Thank you

[fic] The Road Taken

2007-01-19T17:11:55Z

Title: The Road Taken
Author: Ju
Characters: Kiichi, Tien Li
Disclaimer: If the boys were mine, this would be canon.

Trials of the Heart II– part 5

2007-01-09T08:58:48Z

Title: Trials of the Heart II– part 5
Author: Amaniblue
Category /Genre: Angst
Main Pairings: Takamiya x Izumi; Reiji x Naoya
Rating: R – for the boy-smex, cursing and a bit of violence
Word count: ~1500
Disclaimer: The legal rights to these fine characters belong to Yuki Shimizu, lucky gal. Only the OC characters are of my own creation.

AN: I hope this part doesn’t seem so disjointed, but it’s to build up for the next part. This is more comedy than angst.

~Reiji’s POV~

Reiji let out a huge sigh and repeated his earlier words with a tinge of frustration, “He says no, Takamiya.”

The B&B owner immediately removed the receiver a few inches from his ear as the caller pleaded his case more urgently as expected. Aoe Reiji closed his eyes in exasperation then briefly raises a hand to pinch the bridge of his nose. He turns his head to stare holes at that stubborn back of his young lover.

He had thought all was well and fine between the two when Naoya volunteered some helpful hints to help his friend four nights ago. But then now that he’d thought about it, it was strange when Naoya continued to remain distant towards the translator the very next day when they were at the airport to send Takamiya and Kuroda off.

Distracted by his own musings, Reiji turned his attention back to the caller on the phone. Despite having missed about half of what was said, the B&B owner briskly replied with confidence, “I’ll see what I can do. Bye.”

Without even bothering to listen to his friend’s parting words, Reiji lowered the phone and placed it back in its holder. He then released another long drawn out sigh and reached a hand up to loosen his tie.

He’d never seen Naoya this stubborn before.

This is definitely going to take some coaxing on my part, he thought as he walked towards the figure standing outside on the balcony.

~Izumi’s POV~

“…then I told him to shove off. You should’ve seen his face. My old section chief was livid, I tell ya!” His friend, Konno, let out a loud hoot of laughter when he finished retelling his story. The man laughed so hard that he had to raise a hand to wipe the tears that was leaking from the corner of his eyes.

But then as if remembering something bad, he sobered up the next instant and made a face. “Then that old coot signed the paperwork the next morning. So I ended here, stuck in this dead end desk job, advertising through the phone lines. It sucks I tell ya!”

Konno finished his rant with a loud hiccup and his demeanor immediately changed from irate to mirthful as he let out a low chuckle when the group surrounding the low table burst out laughing at the sound he made in his drunkenness.

Izumi joined in. He didn’t fare any better than his friend it seems. The entire upper half of his body was collapsed atop that same table. His cheeks were tinged bright pink and he wore a stupid lopsided grin on his face. With his head laid out on one side and his blurry eyes settling on a pair of well-endowed breasts that looked like it was ready to pop out any time, Izumi really hadn’t had much to complain. Not that he really cared to look at them in the first place nor does he have anything to complain about. He was only listening half-heartedly to his friend’s ranting about his demotion from a promising marketing salesman to a phone telemarketer. It really wasn’t all that funny, but in the state that his mind was currently in, everything seemed funny to him somehow.

Izumi briefly remembered he had a drunken experience once before. A very long time ago when he had drank only one glass and was already passed out. But his palate since then had been refined throughout the seven years. Thus his toleration for strong spirits has increase significantly. Despite this fact though, it didn’t help him any when the group he’s with was determined to get themselves and everyone else brainlessly drunk.

Moments later, Konno excused himself and left the private gathering room.

Izumi was in the middle of reminiscing the past when he briefly heard someone mentioned his name. He raised his eyes to level with said speaker. “Hm?”

Kae was it? Izumi couldn’t quite remember. The three girls that Konno brought with him all looked the same to him somehow. Even more so, now that he’s drunk; everything became a blur of colors and lines.

Thinking that Izumi was blatantly ogling her, Kae giggled then repeated her question. “So what do you do, Sakashita-san?”

Izumi had to take a moment to shake his head of the haze before he could respond clearly to the question thrown his way. “I’m ah…Foreign Exchange Analyst for the Shinsei Bank Corporation.”

As if on cue, the other two women present pounced on this new information with interest. One of them— Izumi couldn’t remember even if his life depended upon it— immediately ‘ooh’ while the other—Izumi just as equally clueless of her name—‘ah’ at him. Fortunately, Izumi was tipsy enough to not realize the dangerous glint in their eyes. Thus, he happily replied to the questions that were fired at him in rapid succession.

“Is that like a stock broker? I could use some investing advice on the Nikkei Index,” one of them said.

Izumi raised a hand to scratch the back of his head before he replied, “No, not really.”

The same woman scrunched up her face with distaste when she guessed mockingly, “Is it like those clerks who work at the airport? You know, those guys who exchange your money for foreign currency?”

A picture of his self in a grey suit standing behind a counter at the airport came to mind and Izumi broke into a wide grin. “No.”

That same woman peered her nose down at him and remarked sarcastically, “Oh, then what is it really? It sounds so sophisticated.”

At this point, Kae flashed a warning glare at her friend. She then turned to Izumi and smiled warmly. “Don’t mind Reiko-chan. You don’t have to tell us if you don’t want to.”

Izumi wasn’t aware of their exchange and the meaning behind Reiko’s remark. Thus he replied with a shrug. “Hmm... oh no, it’s nothing like that at all. I mean, not really. All I do each day is to make the purchases for the bank's local and foreign investors.”

As if Izumi somehow redeemed his self in the woman’s eyes, Reiko chose that moment to lean closer to him and remarked flirtatiously, “Still, it sounds exciting.”

Kae merely rolled her eyes at her friend before she remarked with a smile, “Sakashita-san, you must know many languages to deal with all those foreign investors.”

Izumi returned her smile and replied, “I guess. Knowing several languages did help land the job.”

“Oh, what languages do you know, Sakashita-kun?” The other girl chimed into the conversation, her interest in him piqued as well.

Despite the attention that he was currently receiving from all three women, Izumi still had no idea that they were flirting with him. At first, he was unsure of how he would be received by this group. Now though, with their easy rapport, Izumi was actually enjoying their company. Thus he continued to answer their questions without pretense. “I’m fluent in English and am literate in both French and Italian.”

“Ooh! Say something in English!” One of them said. Thus at this point, the trio was taking turns to vie for Izumi’s interest.

“Okay…” Izumi couldn’t think of a single thing. So, he lamely said, ‘I can speak English.’

“That sounded wonderful! Oh please say I love your eyes in French. I’ve heard that once in a film.”

“Okay…” Izumi took a moment to rack his memory. When he remembered, he flashed Kae—who happened to have made that request— a wide grin and said, ‘J'aime vos yeux.’

“Ooh, that sounds so sexy coming from you,” she remarked with a giggle.

Reiko, who wasn’t to be outdone, decided to redirect the conversation to her liking. “So working on banker’s hours must be nice. What do you do with all that free time?”
(AN: Banker hours in Japan is from 9 AM to 3 PM.)

Izumi again raised a hand to scratch the back of his head before he replied “Yeah, it is kind of nice, I guess. I usually go to the gym or the aquatic center when I have the time.”

At this point, three pair of eyes lit up and they simultaneously pounced on Izumi. In the next moment, he found himself flat on his back with three women hovering over him. Somehow they’ve managed to remove his suit jacket and pulled the shirttails up from his pants. Six pairs of hands pawed at his biceps, upper torso and abdomen. Compliments on his body were crooned left and right, but Izumi heard nothing of it. He quickly sobered up and tried to sit back up, but the trio prevented that from happening.

Just when he’d felt a hand incidentally pawing very close to his groin, Izumi let out a loud yelp and felt a pair of strong arms lifting him up and away from the women.

He looked over his shoulder and was never more thankful for Konno to return and come to his rescue. His friend set him on his feet and placed himself in front of the trio.

“Now ladies, let’s behave ourselves. I think my friend here needs a breather. So, we’ll be right back.”

Konno smiled at the three women and bent down to grab Izumi’s jacket off the floor. He waved the trio goodbye and pushed Izumi out the room. About several meters away, he took a hold of Izumi’s hand and ran for it.

Request fanfic...

2007-01-05T07:17:45Z

Hi guys!

So, I know I never posted to this community before, but I read your new post every day and I love this whole community! My favorites are the fanfictions! If you search on the internet you can't find a good one anywhere or just the old ones... So I would like to request some good fanfictions old or new about Jin and Katsuki, because they are my favorite pairing. (Maybe some fluff int hem not only angst..^^") Thank you sooo much! And please fell free to delete this post if I made something wrong!

[fic] Jesters & Kings - Part 8

2007-01-03T16:14:15Z

Title: Jesters and Kings - Part 8
Author/Artist: salmonme
Character/Pairing: Jin/Katsuki, OC/Katsuki and Random Characters (Including a handful of OCs)
Challenge: None
Disclaimer: I don't own Lovemode. But you knew that.
Warnings: No spoilers unless you've never read Jin and Katsuki's storyline. But this chapter is M-rated.

Ending chapter! Even if love is worth throwing away your pride for, does there come a time when it's too late?

"No matter what those around you say, only what you feel is right. Is your own truth..."

"This is useless. He's not going to talk to me." Katsuki stated. He was seated in Akechi's limousine, which was parked across the street from the B&B.

"Good." Akechi opinioned. "You'll get more talking in that way. Unless he keeps your mouth occupied in, y'know, other ways." His smile was knowing and Katsuki couldn't help but blush.

"I wouldn't count on that." He told him.

"I'm not. That's why I'm waiting. I'm a little torn over what I'm hoping for, but I'm not counting on anything."

Katsuki's eyes grew troubled. "Akechi, I'm sorry. If it weren't for Jin-"

"Don't. You'll only get my hopes up." The other man cut him off. "I owe this to Jin...and to Souma." Katsuki nodded, but still hesitated. "What now?" Akechi couldn't help but smile. "No use waiting for an invitation."

"I just...how do I get in?"

"Breaking and Entering?"

"You don't know anyone on security?"

"Possibly." He admitted. "But it's been quite a few years and I'm not sure how many of the staff are the same. What's wrong? Never broken in a place before?"

"Of course I have." Katsuki answered. "But the last time I broke in here I got caught."

"You got to see him though, right?"

"The situation was a little different."

"I see...I've got an idea. Come on." Akechi stepped out of the limousine, forcing Katsuki to scramble to follow him. He crossed the street casually, entering the employee entrance without looking back to make sure Katsuki was following. He didn't doubt for a moment he was, and Katsuki didn't disappoint him.

"Hey, wait!" The guards were right there, and Katsuki felt like he was watching history repeat itself.

"No cause for alarm." Akechi flashed the guards a smile. "We're expected." His eyes flickered to beyond them. "Ah, right on schedule."

The guards turned to look over their shoulders, and Akechi promptly slammed their heads together. Katsuki let out a gasp at his sudden action. "Are you crazy?" He asked as the guards collapsed to the floor.

"Wow, that was easier than I thought." Akechi ignored the question. "They should really do something about security."

"Akechi!" Katsuki broke in.

"Don't go hanging around here." Akechi turned, offering a wink and a cheery smile. "You've got a lover to catch."

Katsuki hesitated a moment more, then nodded.

"What's going on here?" A voice broke in.

They whirled to find Amagai had entered the hallway. He was nursing a bruised jaw.

"Amagai-senpai?" Katsuki stared.

"Katsuki?" Amagai blinked.

"Do you just know everyone who works here?" Akechi asked, crossing his arms.

Amagai looked over at him, frowning. "Who's this?"

"I don't have time to explain right now." Katsuki stated, not sure who he was replying to. "But what happened-?"

"Jin." Amagai supplied before he could finish. Katsuki stared at him wordlessly. "I was supposed to go to the Royal Gates but there was a conflict. I chose to let Jin go instead."

"You knew I'd be there tonight." Katsuki managed to get out, a slight accusation in his tone.

"Yes, I did." Amagai admitted.

Katsuki stared at him for a minute, then turned to head up the hallway.

"He's not in a good mood."

"I'll take my chances!" Katsuki called over his shoulder.

"Hn...I think I had more fun being a hero the first time around." Akechi remarked into the silence in the hallway that followed Katsuki's departure.

Amagai looked over at him thoughtfully. "And who are you?"

Akechi smiled wistfully. "Just a Jester - nothing more." He turned away. "Amagai, was it? You wouldn't know a good place to get a drink, would you?"

"Funny you should ask..."

Katsuki's first thought was to avoid the staff elevator. As he headed for the stairs, though, he wondered why he was. If Jin hadn't made it to his room - and he hoped he hadn't - it would be the most likely place to run into him.

There was always the chance he'd meet another staff member, but he'd deal with that if and when it happened. He'd made it this far, and he wasn't turning back now.

The elevator was empty, and he couldn't help but feel a twinge of disappointment. He hit Jin's floor number, watching as the numbers rose. He still had no idea what he was going to say to Jin, or how he was going to convince him to listen in the first place. If he knocked on his door and he didn't answer, what then?

The elevator suddenly stopped, letting off a ping. Katsuki froze when he realized someone else was getting on. The door opened, and he found himself looking at Kiichi Aoe. Kiichi paused when he saw him, and Katsuki looked away - feeling defeated.

'Of all people to be here. It had to be this guy?' He thought briefly, expecting him to call security any minute. So he was surprised when he boarded the elevator and pushed a button without a word. There was no way he could not recognize him - he was even wearing the same suit he'd last seen him in. Not sure what to think, he risked a glance over and found him watching him.

"Katsuki Kyousuke, I believe it was, wasn't it?" Katsuki did not reply, but he didn't seem to care or mind. "I don't believe I ever told you my full name. It's Kiichi Aoe."

"Ah." Was all he gave in reply. Wasn't it a bit late for introductions? What was he playing at?

"You're here to see Jin, correct?" Kiichi continued cheerfully.

He waited for him to continue, and when he didn't he glanced over. He wasn't smiling, but he was watching him carefully. It seemed this time he expected a reply.

"Or is there another reason you're here?" Kiichi asked pointedly.

Katsuki had the same feeling he'd had when the guards had approached Akechi and him downstairs. Like history repeating himself. What was the reason he was here? Wasn't that exactly the question that had been put to him that day?

The elevator dinged again, indicating they'd reached his floor. He faced Kiichi briefly. "No - I'm here to see Jinnai. I must speak with him."

He was surprised when in response to his answer Kiichi smiled. "He's in a meeting with my brother right now. That's where I'm heading, if you'd care to join me."

Katsuki stared.

"You can't get into his room, right?" Kiichi brought up. "If you wait around in the hallways you might run into trouble. And since you know where he is, why not go to him directly? This does sound like an urgent matter."

Katsuki stepped back into the elevator, letting the doors slide close. Kiichi smiled again, and he wasn't sure whether that meant he'd made a good choice or a bad. Either way it was too late now.

"Tagawa-san stayed with you longer than any host so far." Aoe mentioned to Jin. "But he requested a different host next week."

"His choice." Jin replied indifferently.

"You don't have any idea what his reason might be?" Jin remained silent, and Aoe looked over to study his stony expression. "...I suppose it isn't important. You're free to go."

Jin bowed, still not speaking, and turned to leave. Before he got there the door suddenly swung open, admitting Kiichi. "Good evening." He greeted the group in the room.

Aoe fixed his brother with a frown. "What are you doing here this late?"

"Early, actually. It is past midnight." Kiichi was undisturbed by his brother's sourness. "Which means I should have said good morning, I suppose. But since nobody here has gotten to sleep yet, I suppose good evening should do."

"Are you here for a reason or just to aggravate me?" Aoe asked pointedly.

"Ah, Noe's still away on his class outing, isn't he?" Kiichi seemed to remember.

Jin usually enjoyed watching Kiichi bother his brother. Or anybody for that matter. But his mood was dark, and even the scene starting to unfold held no amusement for him. He turned to go, but was brought up short by the elder Aoe brother addressing him.

"Ah, Jinnai - there's someone here to see you."

He turned back to look at Kiichi, trying to figure out who he could be talking about. The doctor only gave him a mysterious smile before turning back to his brother.

"Just because you want to work yourself to exhaustion because you don't have a kitten to go home to, doesn't mean you should make everyone else keep hours with you."

Jin ignored the rest of the conversation, exiting Aoe's office to the short hall that led to the elevator. Nobody was there, and he scowled - wondering what game Kiichi was playing. He was tempted to reenter the office and demand an answer, but he had a feeling the other man was purposefully avoiding his younger brother's involvement.

So where else would someone wait? By his room? Wondering if he wasn't being tricked he hit the button for the elevator. It gave off a chime almost immediately. Jin froze when the doors opened to reveaal Katsuki inside.

For a moment neither of them spoke. Then the elevator chimed again, and the doors began to close. Katsuki hastily pushed them apart again. "Are you getting on?" He asked him. When Jin remained silent, he felt what remaining hope he had plummet. Was he really just wasting his time? "After breaking and entering and chasing after a guy, the least you can do is hear me out."

The elevator chimed again, but Katsuki kept the doors open, trying to read the closed look in Jin's eyes.

"Are you going to let me on? Or are we holding this conversation in the doorway?"

Katsuki let out a breath he hadn't known he was holding, stepping back to let Jin enter the elevator. The host kept his distance, but he was watching him as the doors slid shut. He seemed content to remain silent, and Katsuki was somewhat unnerved at being allowed control of the situation.

"I lied." In retrospect, that probably hadn't been the best way to begin. But he hadn't planned out what to say, and it had made sense at the time. "When I said I wanted you to stay away from me. I didn't mean it. That's the last thing I want." When Jin made no reply, Katsuki turned to face him, determined. "You act like you have all the answers, then you have the gall to ask me a question I answered a long time ago. Where do I want to be? With you! You are the only one I want! I want to be near you!"

"You're the one who walked away. I didn't ask you to go." Jin said finally.

"You didn't tell me to stay either."

Jin scowled and stepped forward, slamming the elevator button for his floor. "You don't think so? Then this really is a waste of time."

"..." Katsuki slumped back against the wall, frustrated and beginning to feel defeated. "You aren't an easy man to love, Jinnai Kuniaki."

"...if the job was easy anybody could do it."

Katsuki chuckled without humour. "You're fast enough to point out when someone's got the wrong idea. What about the right one?" He turned away. "It would be so much easier if you gave me atleast some idea what you want."

He reached for the ground floor button, but Jin's hand grabbed his wrist before he pushed it. He turned to look at the other man sharply, confusion clouding his features. Jin's eyes remained on his captured hand at first, then he turned to face him. Katsuki swallowed when he saw the heat in his eyes. When Jin reached out his free hand to trace his lips with his thumb, he quivered under the touch - pressing into the wall in an attempt to hide it. He could tell by the way Jin smirked that he'd failed.

He opened his mouth to say something to break the new silence, but Jin's mouth was on his then. Hot and wet and demanding. The hand that had traced his lips had found it's way under his jacket to his lower back. For a moment it traced small circles before pulling him flush against Jin's body.

He gasped at the sudden action, the intake of breath tugging on the tongue invading his mouth. Jin moved forward - removing his hand from his back as he pressed his body into the wall. The metal was cold even through the jacket and he jerked involuntarily. Jin pinned the still capture wrist to the wall, breaking the kiss briefly to slide off Katsuki's tie and start unbuttoning his shirt.

Wondering when the older man had even gotten his tie untied, Katsuki reached up a hand to stop the one undressing him. He couldn't think straight with him doing such things. Jin's hand capture his, pulling it up to his mouth to nibble on the palm - his eyes meeting Katsuki's again.

Katsuki shivered, biting down on his lip to hold back the moan threatening to escape. But he could tell by the look in Jin's eyes that the host could read the action with ease.

The sudden halt to the downward motion of the elevator took them both off-guard. Jin released Katsuki's hand to lay his against the wall for support. Katsuki found his hand reaching for the wall belatedly, though his body was so tightly pressed between Jin's and the wall he hadn't moved at all.

At the chime that indicated the doors were opening, Jin gave a small growl, releasing Katsuki's other hand to slam the door close button despite the fact they'd reached his floor. Katsuki swallowed, looking up at Jin as he turned back - not certain what the other man's plans were.

Jin leaned down to speak in his ear, at the same time keeping his body pressed tightly against Katsuki's. "Is that clear enough for you?"

As if he could have any doubts remaining after that! Especially with Jin's arousal digging into his hip. He nodded, not trusting his voice.

"Still planning on leaving?" Jin watched him carefully.

"Would you let me go if I said yes?" Katsuki countered.

"I let you go last time."

"That's why I'm asking."

Jin frowned, stepping back. "I don't force someone to stay who wants to leave."

"And I don't stay where I don't know I'm wanted." Katsuki matched his frown.

"You still think-"

"I never understood it, Jin. There were times, looking back, I wasn't sure I was anything but a nuisance to you."

"If you were, I would have told you." Jin said flatly. He paused, studying him thoughtfully. "Why is it so important for you to understand it? Instead of just accepting it? I'm not asking you why, and I could."

"I don't follow."

"You knew men like Amagai. Tohma. Now Akechi. Why me?"

Katsuki stared, floundering. Because he was in love with him. What else was there? He couldn't explain that. He froze then, lowering his eyes away from Jin's searching gaze as it finally clicked into place. A small smile crossed his features before he looked up at Jin again. "Because I'm unlucky that way?"

Jin chuckled, stepping slightly further back to lean against the back wall. "So, what now?"

What now? Was he serious? After what he'd started? He paused, watching the way Jin was watching him. It occured to him that the other man would have no qualms about finishing what they'd started where they started it. Oh, no. That was not happening.

Katsuki turned to face him, his hands behind his back. "I guess this is our stop." He worked the buttons on the elevator controls behind him, and the doors slid open. Jin's look was smug, and Katsuki's eyes narrowed for a moment before he stepped into the open doorway, sliding off his jacket and toying with the buttons on his shirt Jin had been unbuttoning when he stopped him. "Isn't it?" He stepped out of the way as the doors slid close.

Jin chuckled, straightening away from the wall. Then the elevator jerked and started moving up. He turned his head sharply to the controls, and saw that several floors were highlighted. His eyes narrowed dangerously.

Katsuki had no dillusions about getting away with the trick. But he needed a chance to recooperate. Recover his senses from Jin's assault on them. He couldn't make things too easy for the host, after all. Though the thought of what Jin might do in return did make him slightly nervous.

Taking a deep breath to calm himself, he turned to head up the hallway to Jin's room. If he just waited by the elevator for the other man to return his show of will would be for nothing. Things weren't going to be the same this time around. Not if it was going to end differently.

Preoccupied with his thoughts, Katsuki wasn't prepared for the hands that grabbed him from behind and dragged him through a side door. He let off a shout of surprise, and struggled against the hands gripping his upper arms until he heard a familiar chuckle from behind him. He froze, a blush coloring his face as he caught the scent of Armani cologne. "Jin!" He hissed angrily.

"You need to pay better attention to your surroundings." Jin murmurred into his ear, pulling him against him. "You were an easy target."

"Of all the nasty..."

"And your little trick wasn't...nasty?"

Katsuki froze again when Jin shifted the angle of their bodies so his arousal dug into his backside. His blush deepened and his mind blanked in response.

"Now...I think we were in the middle of something." Jin's lips were on his neck then, teasing his skin with light suction as his hands deftly undid the buttons of his vest.

"This is the stairwell..." Katsuki protested, though he'd only just registered the fact himself.

"Your point?" Jin's actions didn't waver, one hand reaching up to begin undoing the buttons on his shirt.

As he had in the elevator, Katsuki reached up to stop Jin's hands from unclothing him. "Now, wait, what if someone comes up-" He cut off into a gasp when Jin's free hand teased his lower abdomen. He wasn't sure whether to be flattered or annoyed that after such a long time the man still knew his weak spots.

"No one uses them." Jin brushed aside the protest, his lips moving down Katsuki's neck to the junction between his neck and shoulder. His hand undid the buttons of his shirt, sliding inside to trace the planes of his stomach and abdomen with a light touch. Katsuki groaned, his one hand reaching up to graze the side of Jin's neck with his fingertips. He traced the shell of his ear with his thumb, then slid his fingers down into the open collar of the other man's shirt. Jin's hands paused momentarily in their caresses, and Katsuki savored the thrill of the small victory.

It didn't last long, and he gave a small gasp when Jin shifted their positions unexpectedly, and he found his back pinned to the wall and Jin's face inches from his own. His eyes widened and he studied the host's smug expression warily.

"Looks like you're feeling gamesome after all. Despite where we are." Jin taunted him.

Katsuki silently cursed himself for the slip, and opened his mouth to reply. Jin's teeth caught his bottom lip, tugging slightly before his lips closed on it, sucking. Katsuki's breath hitched in his throat, and his eyes slid shut when he felt Jin's hands slide into his open shirt. Jin released his lower lip, his tongue tracing the outline of his mouth as his hands began to toy with his nipples. Katsuki groaned, leaning back into the wall for support. Even though he knew he'd lost the battle of wills this time, he couldn't find it in him to care. Not with Jin's touch filling his senses.

Jin's tongue dove inside his mouth then, digging deeply inside to trace along his teeth and the roof of his mouth. His hands moved down Katsuki's body, drinking in the moans that accompained his touch. His fingers brushed into the waistband of the younger man's pants and he shivered beneath his touch. He broke the kiss slowly, smirking when Katsuki's mouth followed his, seeking more. He kissed him again, briefly, distracting him as he undid the closure of his pants. When one hands slipped in to caress his hip he gave a gasp, pulling out of the kiss.

Jin saw the protest forming in his eyes, and dove down to attack one of his nipples with his mouth, thoroughly enjoying the passion-filled cry that escaped the young man's lips. He sucked the nub in his mouth as one hand traced the still clothed bulge of Katsuki's arousal. Katsuki quivered under his touch, his hands reaching out to trace down his back - lost in sensation, his earlier protests forgotten.

Jin lapped briefly at the salty sweetness of Katsuki's skin before pulling away completely. Katsuki's hands reached for him, but he pushed them away with ease - enjoying watching him try to shake off the lingering effects of their passions.

"What are you-?" He finally got out.

"What was it you said earlier? This is our floor, right?" Jin opened the door, glancing back with a smirk. "Coming?"

Katsuki cursed Jin's inhuman ability to walk after what they'd just done, even as he tried to pull his clothes together enough to make himself decent for the public hallway. "Jinnai, you-" He began angrily.

"You started this game, boy." Jin said without guilt, before reaching out to take ahold of Katsuki's chin, titlting his head up so their gazes met. "Don't you know by now I always win?" He released him, disappearing through the door as it closed.

"Damn it." Katsuki tried to calm his body, but it was still on fire - aching for Jin's touch. A part of him was tempted to walk away and let the host go as unfulfilled as him - atleast for a little while. But, no, this wasn't about revenge. He was here to see things through. And they were far from through. "Alright, have it your way." He muttered, his lips curling into an amused smile - though he wasn't sure who or what he was finding so amusing at that moment.

Holding his pants closed, he hurried out the door - chasing Jin's figure down the hallway. He'd just made it to his door, and Katsuki grabbed his arm to pull him to face him. He gave a squeak of surprise when he was yanked into a deep kiss, and Jin's arm wrapped around his waist to press his body into his own. Playtime was definately over. He could tell the difference in the way Jin kissed him. Could feel the tightness in the other man's body. Somehow Jin had gotten the door open, and Katsuki felt him lift him up briefly to turn them so they could get into his room. He never broke the kiss.

Katsuki reached up to undo the buttons of Jin's shirt as he closed the door. Jin shrugged out of it, pulling off Katsuki's vest and shirt together as he broke the kiss to attack Katsuki's neck with his lips and teeth. Katsuki groaned, his hands caressing the hard angles of Jin's chest, vaguely aware of Jin's hands on his hips - guiding him backwards. His pants were sliding off his hips and he reached for them. Jin caught the hand, pushing the pants down instead and trailing his mouth down his neck and chest.

Katsuki felt his back hit the edge of a wall, and wondered how Jin had guided them into his bedroom while they'd been so preoccupied. He wouldn't dwell on the thought long, though, because Jin's lips and teeth began to work his weak spot on his abdomen. He cried out, his face heating in a blush - his senses on fire. He could feel as Jin finished undressing him, then he was being pulled forward.

He didn't realize Jin had somehow undressed too until he felt his skin on his as they tumbled into the bed. His body was already coiled with heat, and he groaned as their bodies slid against eachother. Jin used his knees to spread Katsuki's legs apart, and the younger man moaned as a moistened finger slid into his entrance experimentally. A second quickly joined it, pressing deeper. He groaned, pushing himself harder onto the invading digits. He heard Jin's low chuckle in his ear. "Anxious?" The older man taunted him.

"You don't have to take it easy this time." Katsuki told him. "I have more experience than I did our first night."

Jin's actions ceased, and Katsuki gave a cry of frustration at the pause. The fingers withdrew from his body, and Jin reached up to turn his face so their eyes met. "When we're together there are no other times." Jin's tone brooked no arguement.

For a moment Katsuki stared, then his eyes slid close as he let those words wash over him. Opening his eyes again he leaned up - his mouth seeking Jin's. Jin's mouth crashed down on his instead, as he pierced his body with his own. Katsuki jerked at the sudden intrusion, crying out into the mouth devouring his.

Jin didn't wait for him to adjust, his hips pumped into Katsuki's - sheathing himself further and further into his heat. The younger man's cries were keening as he pounded into his core. Jin actually found himself panting as his body coiled tighter and tighter with passion. He felt Katsuki begin to shake below him in preclimax and he increased his speed and pressure until he felt the body he was inside of clamp around him.

Katsuki screamed, his back arching as his body found release, keenly aware of Jin's own release inside of him moments later. He gasped for breath as he came down, letting his senses stop reeling before blinking his eyes open.

Jin's eyes met his as he slowly pullet out. His own breath seemed heavy, yet he reached a hand up to trace Katsuki's swollen lips. "Not going to faint this time?"

Katsuki smile, reaching up to trace circles on the back of Jin's hand. "Not anymore."

"I'll have to test that resolve." Jin's eyes glinted.

Katsuki met Jin's gaze challengingly. "Go ahead."

Jin's eyes glinted again, and when he pulled Katsuki into another kiss he went willingly.

Katsuki awoke to silken sheets against his naked skin, and the familiar ache of the morning after with a male lover. It was all so normal it took a moment to remember where he truly was and what had happened the previous night.

His eyes shot open, taking in Jin's room as if to assure himself it was real and not just a dream. There was only the feeling of cool air beside him, and he bit his lip before turning to look at the empty side of the bed where Jin had once been. He reached out to run his hand along the sheets, feeling the remaining warmth as he let himself admit that he was disappointed to awaken alone.

He rolled onto the other side of the bed, burying his nose into the pillow that still smelled of Jin's cologne and soaking in the lingering warmth. It seemed an achingly familiar beginning, and for a moment he was plagued with doubts.

He heard the sound of the door in the other room and paused, listening. Footsteps followed and as they drew closer he closed his eyes - feigning sleep. The footsteps stopped at the edge of the bed and for a moment silence filled the room.

"That's my side of the bed, you know." Jin finally spoke.

Katsuki opened his eyes to look up at the other man, taking in the fact that he was fully dressed. It wasn't the suit from the previous night either. "I woke up and you weren't here." Katsuki wasn't sure if it was an explanation or an accusation.

Jin pushed his legs over a little, sitting on the edge of the bed. "I had something to do."

"I see." He replied out of habit, letting his eyes wander away from the other man.

"Stop that." Jin's words drew his attention back to the host.

"Stop what?" Katsuki's eyes clouded with confusion. He hadn't even moved, and couldn't figure out what he could have done to warrant the command.

"Treating me like one of your Noe's. It's insulting."

"What do you want me to do? Whine about it?" Katsuki finally sat up, ignoring the chillness of the air on his naked skin. "You weren't here. You had something to do. There's nothing I can do about it."

"Did it upset you?"

"...Yes." Katsuki admitted reluctantly.

"Then say it."

There was neither reproach or encouragement to the words. In fact, he seemed annoyingly calm. It irked Katsuki slightly, and he was tempted to snipe at the other man. The feeling passed, though, and he shrugged as he started to move away. "I was upset you weren't here. Satisfi-?" He cut off when Jin yanked him back, kissing him briefly. When he released him, Katsuki didn't move away but he lowered his eyes to Jin's collar - becoming acutely aware of his own state of undress.

"What now?" Jin asked into his ear, echoing the question in his mind he'd been avoiding since he awoke.

"I don't know." Katsuki said after a moment's pause. He drew away from Jin reluctantly as the weight of his current situation returned to him. "My things are in a hotel room half-way across town. When the payment on it runs out I have nowhere to go. I don't have a job...what's that?" He cut off when Jin waved a piece of paper in front of him.

"Seems there's an opening for a pageboy here at the B&B." Jin's smile was smug.

Katsuki eyed him suspiciously. "Oh?"

"Don't believe me? It has the owner's signature on it."

He was watching him carefully, and Katsuki lowered his head to hide the smile tugging at his lips. "I'll think about it."

"It's a last chance offer." Jin said. "If you don't want it..." He made to tear the paper in half.

"I didn't say that!" Katsuki dived for the paper, but found himself caught in Jin's arms instead. With a simple twist the older man pinned him to the bed. Jin let the paper flutter to the floor as he gazed down at Katsuki. The younger man looked up at him warily.

"When's your room payed to?"

"The end of the week." He confessed.

Jin frowned, studying him. "That was a generous parting gift."

Katsuki looked away from his searching gaze. "It was."

"But it wasn't Noe's, was it?" When Katsuki wouldn't meet his gaze, he knew He'd guessed right. It was easy enough to work the rest out from there. "Akechi."

"I didn't sleep with him!" Katsuki burst out.

Jin looked down at him, and for a moment surprise showed in his usually guarded eyes. Then an amused smile crossed his face. "I don't recall suggesting otherwise."

"I...I just thought...I didn't want you to think-"

"Did he send you here?"

"No. I chose to come here. All Akechi did was tell me a story." A sad smile curved the corners of his mouth.

Jin rolled off of him, stretching out beside his prone form. "It must have been some story."

"I'm here, aren't I?" Katsuki said quietly.

Jin didn't reply. Instead he reached out a hand to trace down Katsuki's bare side, savoring the soft skin beneath his fingers. Katsuki turned his body to face him, and when Jin leaned down to capture his lips with his own he let himself sink into the oblivion of his kiss.

It was afternoon when the door to Jin's room opened again. Katsuki exited, pulling his freshly washed hair into a pigtail. He paused to glance back at Jin, who exited behind him dressed in a different suit than he'd worn that morning. "I'll let you know my address...just in case you want to find me."

"The room next door is still empty." Jin pointed out.

Katsuki offered a knowing smile. "You don't expect me to make it that easy on you, do you?"

"You usually do." Jin taunted, leaning in so their mouths were only a hair's breadth apart. Katsuki frowned at the torment, opening his mouth to argue. Jin caught his lips before he could start.

"What a romantic scene." The two broke the kiss, turning sharply to where Akechi was standing in the hallway - looking amused and dressed in casual clothes.

"What are you doing here, Imura?" Jin crossed his arms.

Akechi ignored his question. "Oh, dear. Did I ruin the moment?" He glanced at Katsuki, winking conspiratually as he continued to repeat the words from the previous night. "I'm sorry."

Jin frowned over the exchange. "You realize you could get in trouble for being here?"

"Not really." Akechi responded a bit airily. "But I think you should keep that sort of thing confined to the rooms. What with the security cameras and all."

Katsuki froze. "Security cameras?"

"Yes. They're all over the B&B."

"Like the stairwells and the elevator?"

"I would think so, why?"

Shooting Jin a venomous glare, Katsuki stormed off down the hallway without looking back.

"Something I said?" Akechi asked. "Or something you did?"

"You realize I could call security on you?" Jin pointed out.

"You could...but then I could just show them my membership card."

"Membership card?"

"Yep. You're looking at the B&B's newest client." Akechi stated smugly. Jin's look was sardonic. "What? It gets lonely being a corporate big shot. A man could use some company now and then."

"As long as you remember that only the hosts are for company, not the staff."

"Are you suggesting I would try something under-handed?" Akechi's smile was mischievous. "And after I acted so nobly last night."

"I was wondering about that." Jin stated. His face was serious.

The playful smile retreated from Akechi's lips as he met that look. "You got Souma's phone number for me, didn't you?"

For a moment Jin fixed him with a piercing gaze, then he nodded in understanding.

"But...that makes us even, old friend." Akechi stated, the slightest hint of a challenge in his eyes. "So don't mess up. Because I'll be nearby."

"I'll remember that." Jin told him, turning away to reenter his room. "But if you're waiting for that to happen - you're wasting your time."

Akechi smiled before turning away himself. "I hope so." He returned before
heading up the hallway.

Jin glanced over his shoulder to watch him go then turned away to reenter his room, closing the door solidly behind him.

End

Salmon 2007

Karma must be catching up to Jin for bothering Ian and Rin, huh? And how did Kiichi sneak in there? Lil Devil. At first I couldn't get Jin and Katsuki to do anything with eachother...then I couldn't get them to stop. ROFL Though I thought it fit, so I ended up leaving it all in. I forgot about the cameras around the B&B, though, until I'd already written the make-out scenes in the elevator and stairwell! ^-^' I was wondering if I should rewrite it, but I opted to leave it and use it in the ending scene instead.

Well, I hope everyone's happy with the final chapter. I think I'm happy with it. Though I kept rewriting scenes again! LOL I worked hard to keep the characters IC. I think I succeeded, and I hope you all think so too. Thank-you for reading! ^-^

Happy Late New Year Everyone! ^-^

[fic] Love Mode - jyunjou. (one-shot, pg-13)

2007-01-02T22:00:16Z

title - jyunjou
pairing - reiji x naoya
rating - pg-13
description – Aoe-san always makes it a point to leave before Naoya wakes up, but with Naoya catch him before he leaves this time?

http://kanglin.livejournal.com/89726.html

Art: The Misadventures of Shirakawa Naoya, Unfortunate Uke: Part II

2006-12-30T08:27:14Z

Title: The Misadventures of Shirakawa Naoya, Unfortunate Uke: Part II
Artist: Ju
Characters: Naoya, Reiji
Disclaimer: LM belongs to Shimizu Yuki. Also, I can't draw.
Notes: Part I (from over a year ago ahahaha?) can be found here. Read from right to left, manga style.

Um. Happy New Year, everyone? :D

FIC: Kittens

2006-12-22T15:48:32Z

Title: Kittens
Pairing/Character: Reiji/Naoya
Author: Mr. Kade
Rating: PG
Summary: Reiji hated kittens.

Assignment written for the yaoi_challenge reverse ficathon. Enjoy!

Kittens

[Fic] Mistletoe

2006-12-16T15:54:35Z

Finally got round to writing again... phew! Almost got killed by exams, but it's FINALLY the HOLIDAYS~! XDXD

That said, I come bearing Christmas fic! Enjoy~!

(crossposted to my journal.)

Fanfic: Mistletoe
Pairing: Reiji/Naoya
Genre: Romance, humour
Word count: 855
Disclaimer: Love Mode belongs to Yuki Shimizu. Plot bunnies and mutilations belong to yours truly. XD
Warnings: None.
Summary: It’s Christmas and Naoya’s birthday! Reiji gets stressed and Kiichi gets up to no good. As usual.

Mistletoe

If there was one season Aoe Reiji didn’t like, it had to be Christmas. For one, there was the tradition of giving presents, which meant that he had to go shopping for presents. Of course, he could always order Kashima to do it, but Kiichi always fussed and made his best kicked-puppy eyes when Reiji did not pick out his gift personally. Shopping was a waste of his time and money. In short, he really didn’t see the point in it.

Secondly, there were the parties. He didn’t have anything against parties, usually, but when everyone invited him to their Christmas parties, well, as the head of the family business it would be rude not to show up. Of course, Christmas parties generally involved a lot of alcohol and people getting extremely drunk, which would invariably lead to someone or other latching onto him and… well. He really didn’t want to think about what had happened in the past. He quite liked that last suit that got ruined.

Third, there was the mistletoe. He never understood why people loved hanging mistletoe all over the party venue. He didn’t want to know who came up with the brilliant idea that if you stood under the mistletoe with someone else, both parties would have to kiss. In his opinion, the idiot who came up with that custom had never been forced to kiss a very drunk person. And as for Kiichi… his elder brother seemed to have an unholy obsession with the plant. If he wasn’t waving it at Reiji, he was doing… things with Haruomi.

Last, but not least, with all the hustle and bustle to do with Christmas, it meant that it left him with less time to be where he wanted to be, doing the things he wanted to do. He was sure that the other understood, but still…

“Come on, Reiji, I organized this party just for you!”

“No.”

“Think of it, soft lights, romantic music and all the MISTLETOE~!”

“No.”

“Aw, you’re no fun, Reiji.”

“NO.”

“I really wanted to see you kiss - ”

“I’m busy.”

Click

Kashima suppressed a grin as he looked at his employer through the rearview mirror. “Kiichi-sama isn’t going to take this lying down.”

“Hmph.” Reiji shoved his mobile phone back into his coat pocket with more force than necessary, folded his arms and tried to suppress the urge to strangle Kiichi the next time they met.

There was silence for the rest of the journey. When they reached the apartment, Kashima got out of the car to open the door for him.

“Merry Christmas, Reiji-sama.”

“You too, Kashima.”

He fiddled with the box as he waited for the elevator to descend. He tugged at the ribbon while waiting for the elevator to ascend. He felt like a stupid, love-struck teenager on Valentine’s Day.

Finally, he reached the door. He went through the motions of inserting the key into the lock, taking of his shoes.

“Tadaima.”

A tinkle of a bell as the cat bounded up to him and started rubbing against his ankles. Softer footfalls following behind…

“Okaeri, Ao- Mmmpf!”

Several breathless moments later, he finally had the presence of mind to hand the box to the other. “Happy birthday, Naoya.”

The smile that lit up the boy’s face more than made up for the headache he had when deciding what to buy. He reached for the boy again…

Maybe Christmas wasn’t so bad after all.

“See, I told you that mistletoe worked!”

Reiji froze at the sound of the voice and looked past Naoya’s shoulder.

“Kiichi…” the name escaped his lips in an exasperated sigh.

“It was PERFECT!” Kiichi dabbed at his eyes with a handkerchief he whipped out of nowhere. “I finally, finally, FINALLY get to catch you in action with Naoya-kun! I’m so proud of you, Reiji!”

“Why. Are. You. Here.”

Naoya tried to intervene before things got worse. “Sensei was just visiting!”

Reiji glared at Kiichi who was still grinning from ear to ear. He swore he could see the forked tail waving behind him. Wait. Did Kiichi just say… mistletoe?

He spun round and looked up. And there the infernal plant was hanging, all red and green and HAPPY above the front door.

“Haruomi helped.” Kiichi supplied, as though Reiji cared about the finer details of how the stupid plant had managed to get there. Haruomi stoically flipped through the newspaper, trying his best to blend in with the sofa.

“Kii-chi.” Reiji growled at his older brother.

Naoya couldn’t help laughing at the ensuing argument, which involved mistletoe, invasion of property, mistletoe, respect of privacy, mistletoe and bedroom affairs. In the end, Kiichi won, which was expected, and they sat down to their Christmas dinner.

When Kiichi brought out the birthday cake all aflame with candles, Reiji’s hand brushed over and gave his a gentle squeeze under the table. He gave Naoya a tiny smile and, as Kiichi crowed in delight, a long kiss.

Naoya thought that it was the most wonderful feeling to celebrate Christmas and birthdays as a family.

Reiji decided that he didn’t dislike Christmas after all.

The end

A/N: How was it? This was written kind of on the spur of the moment, so hopefully it turned out ok… now to get rid of the other plot bunnies bouncing madly in my head!!

Please review~! My ego needs feeding. XDXDXD

And MERRY CHRISTMAS in advance to everyone~!

.:i just wanna share these:.

2006-12-02T05:14:40Z

i found this over at urahara_shouten and decided to try it out on our favorite Love Mode characters:

Reiji:

Ten Top Trivia Tips about Reiji!

Reiji has often been found swimming miles from shore in the Indian Ocean.
Reiji can jump up to sixteen times his own height!
Reiji can be found on a Cluedo board between the Library and the Conservatory!
Without Reiji, we would have to pollinate apple trees by hand.
Reindeer like to eat Reiji.
Reiji is only six percent water.
During World War II, Americans tried to train Reiji to drop bombs.
It is bad luck to light three cigarettes with the same Reiji!
It's bad luck to put Reiji on a bed.
Ostriches stick their heads in Reiji not to hide but to look for water.

#9 and 10wins~!! ♥

Naoya:

Ten Top Trivia Tips about Naoya!

The condom - originally made from Naoya - was invented in the early 1500s.
Cats use their Naoya to test whether a space is large enough for them to fit through!
Naoya was banned from Finland because of not wearing pants!
If you lick Naoya ten times, you will consume one calorie!
Naoya can pollinate up to six times more efficiently than the honeybee.
It takes a lobster approximately 7 years to grow to be Naoya!
Naoya was originally green, and actually contained cocaine.
Red Naoya at night, shepherd's delight. Red Naoya at morning, shepherd's warning.
Naoya can squeeze his entire body through a hole the size of his beak!
On stone temples in southern India, there are more than 30 million carved images of Naoya.

Takamiya:

Ten Top Trivia Tips about Takamiya!

The opposite sides of Takamiya always add up to seven.
Over half of Americans are officially Takamiya!
Humans have 46 chromosomes, peas have 14, and Takamiya has 7!
While sleeping, fifteen percent of men snore, and ten percent grind their Takamiya.
Takamiya is the only bird that can swim but not fly.
Baby swans are called Takamiya.
Takamiya has only one weakness - the colour yellow.
The risk of being struck by Takamiya is one occurence every 9,300 years!
Takamiya is actually a fruit, not a vegetable.
Duelling is legal in Paraguay as long as both parties are Takamiya!

Izumi:

Ten Top Trivia Tips about Izumi!

The Izumi-fighting market in the Philippines is huge - several thousand Izumi-fights take place there every day!
A chimpanzee can learn to recognize itself in a mirror, but Izumi can not!
Ancient Chinese artists would never paint pictures of Izumi.
Thirty-five percent of the people who use personal ads for dating are Izumi!
You should always open Izumi at least an hour before drinking him.
Izumi is the world's tallest woman.
The smelly fluid secreted by skunks is colloquially known as Izumi!
Izumi cannot be detected by infrared cameras.
The military salute is a motion that evolved from medieval times, when knights in armour raised their visors to reveal Izumi.
On average, women blink nearly twice as much as Izumi.

Kiichi:

Ten Top Trivia Tips about Kiichi!

Kiichi was originally green, and actually contained cocaine.
The deepest part of Kiichi is over 35,000 feet deep.
In a pinch, the skin from a shark can be used as Kiichi!
A bride should wear something old, something new, something borrowed, and Kiichi!
Only one child in twenty will be born on the day predicted by Kiichi.
Kiichi can last longer without water than a camel can.
Women shoplift four times more frequently than Kiichi.
Kiichi is born white; his pink feathers are caused by pigments in his typical diet of shrimp.
Kiichi is the world's tallest woman.
Kiichi became extinct in England in 1486!

Haruomi:

Ten Top Trivia Tips about Haruomi!

South Australia was the first place to allow Haruomi to stand for parliament!
Haruomi can drink over 25 gallons of water at a time.
The National Heart Foundation recommends eating Haruomi at least three times a week.
If the Sun were the size of a beach ball then Jupiter would be the size of a golf ball and Haruomi would be as small as a pea.
India tested its first nuclear Haruomi in 1974.
Donald Duck's middle name is Haruomi.
Michelangelo finished his great statue of Haruomi in 1504, after eighteen months work.
In Ancient Egypt, people wore glittery eyeshadow made from the crushed shells of Haruomi.
Humans have 46 chromosomes, peas have 14, and Haruomi has 7.
Haruomi can only be destroyed by intense heat, and is impermeable even to acid!

#3: kiichi eats haruomi more than thrice a week.. LOL.

i just put up these six characters.. now, go try it out yourselves~!! ^_______^

[fic] Trials of the Heart II– part 4

2006-11-30T23:36:33Z

Title: Trials of the Heart II– part 4
Author: Amaniblue
Category /Genre: Angst
Main Pairings: Takamiya x Izumi; Reiji x Naoya
Rating: R – for the boy-smex, cursing and a bit of violence
Word count: ~1100
Disclaimer: The legal rights to these fine characters belong to Yuki Shimizu, lucky gal. Only the OC characters are of my own creation.

AN: And so, the plot slightly plods along. It does feel like I’m writing a Japanese dorama sometimes with the way I'm pacing this. Sorry for the slow build-up. ^_^

~Izumi’s POV~

Despite his busy workload today, he had picked his brother up during his late lunch break and dropped Katsumi off at his apartment earlier on. Then a couple of hours later, after the last of his clients had been dealt with, Izumi went to the employee’s locker room to grab his things and left work in a hurry.

When he arrived back at his apartment, he’d found his little brother raiding his kitchen. About half of the drawers were pulled out while the fridge and cabinet doors were left wide open. Izumi rolled his eyes at his discovery. He dropped his briefcase on his desk, then took off his blue suit jacket and draped it over the swivel chair next to it. Before the little munchkin could wreck further havoc, Izumi approached from behind and took a hold of his brother by the underarms. He plucked Katsumi off the small step stool that he was currently standing on and plopped the boy in front of him. Izumi then immediately turned the kid about face.

In spite of having the strongest urge to grin, Izumi managed to maintain a sour expression as he said, “I’m home.”

He then crossed his arms over his chest for added affect.

Katsumi upon seeing his older brother, merely smiled up at him and announced, “I’m hungry.”

Izumi rolled his eyes yet again. Even though it may seem like a cute trait of Katsumi’s, but seriously, his brother needs almost constant reminder of his manners sometimes. “You’re supposed to say, ‘welcome home’ or ask ‘how is your day today?’ Not, ‘I’m hungry.’”

“But I am hungry, Izumi.” The boy had the audacity to pout up at him as he made another faux pas.

This time though, Izumi gently conked his little brother on the head before he said, “It’s big brother to you.”

The boy winced in pain as he raised both hands to cover up the sore spot at the top of his head. He tried mimicking his older brother’s glare, but it didn’t work. It only succeeded to bring the grin that Izumi had been fighting not to show for a brief second. However it was enough to confuse Katsumi though.

Izumi smirked at that and began absently closing all the drawers and cabinet doors as he took out the ingredients he needed. “How about I make you my world famous ramen, eh kiddo?”

“Yeah!” the boy cried in excitement. Apparently, Katsumi had already forgotten his headache and remembered his hunger pangs instead.

As they were in the middle of finishing up their light meal, his mobile phone rang. It was his mother. Her voice had sounded a bit nasally and Izumi had worriedly asked her whether she was catching something. She dismissed his concerns when she emitting a strained laugh over the phone and informed him that he can bring Katsumi home now. After he bid her goodbye, Izumi wondered briefly whether he should stay with his mother tonight and take her to a clinic instead. She really didn’t sound too good over the phone.

When he hung up, Izumi quickly turned to Katsumi and told him not to dawdle. The boy immediately slurped up the last of his noodles and went about the studio to grab his things. Izumi then took both of their dishes, washed it by hand, and dried them before he grabbed his jacket from the chair. They both left the apartment hand in hand.

Ten minutes later, Izumi alight the bus with his brother in toll.

~Takamiya’s POV~

What rebuttal could he have made then? Takamiya thought as he ran a hand through his hair out of frustration. He had bid her a quiet farewell soon after Izumi’s mother made her plea. Her tears had turned into an all out bawl; she was in no condition to continue their session. Plus, Takamiya didn’t want to add to her distress any further, so he retreated.

He raised weary eyes to locate his rented car parked on the opposite side of the street. A few steps later he reached the car, opened the driver side door, and collapsed heavily onto the tan leather seats. After buckling up, Takamiya turned the ignition key and shift to first gear, intending to rip onto the road. However, his foot never hit the accelerator when he suddenly recalled her earlier words.

“My son came back broken, Takamiya-san. Our family has managed to piece him back together. He has finally learned to move on.”

Takamiya shifted the gear back to park and banged his head back against the headrest. He closed his eyes and began pondering the conversation he had with Izumi’s mother as the low rumble of the engine lulled in the background.

Initially he had intended to impart the terrible news to Izumi’s parents; instead Takamiya had found relief in learning of his lover’s wellbeing only to have that feeling dashed away moments later. His world once again, turned upside down.

“Please, if you still have a scrap of love left for my son, I beg you, don’t seek him out. Leave him be.”

One thing he was certain though, his gut feeling told him that Izumi’s mother knew. Somehow, she’d known about his relationship with her son. Whether Izumi had told her or she’d found out by herself, she couldn’t have made it any more plainly what she’d wished of their relationship. And yet, the words and tone she’d used don’t seem to show her displeasure of this discovery. It almost sounded as if it was for Izumi’s own welfare that Takamiya should never see him again.

The more he mulled over her responses, the more confused and frustrated he’d get. It was a vicious cycle; these words of ambiguity, for it generated other confusing questions that he didn’t have any answers to.

Was what I did so irrevocable that Izumi was broken by it? Did something happen to him after all? I know I’d messed things up terribly. What had she meant by, he’d moved on? From me? To someone else?

Takamiya couldn’t stand even the thought of that. He lifted his head from the headrest and banged his forehead not so gently against the steering wheel as he let out a loud groan. A light beep of the horn alarmed a couple of the pedestrians that were walking to catch the bus a block away. He paid no heed to the looks he got and raised his head back up. Right now, his head hurt from more than the physical. It pounded with the need for clarity. Takamiya pinched the bridge of his nose with his right hand and release a drawn out sigh of frustration.

Despite Izumi’s mother’s heartfelt plea to leave her son alone, Takamiya was more than ever, determined to speak with Izumi face to face.

And he only knew of one person who can help him.

With his new found resolve, Takamiya took in a deep breath and released it in a huff. He shifted the car back into first gear, easily merged into the light traffic, and drove pass the bus that had just arrived.