Gravitation Fan Fiction ❯ A Place To Stay ❯ Chapter 2 ( Chapter 2 )

[ T - Teen: Not suitable for readers under 13 ]

Suguru needs to find a place to stay; Shuichi is in desperate need for a roommate after he left Eiri. A simple placement as friends, roommates, and band mates turned into much more in time, leaving both poor boys confused on their feelings.

Anime/Manga: Gravitation Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Comedy / Angst | Type: Shounen-ai | Uploaded On: 11.27.2005 | Pages: 4 | Words: 10.4K | Visits: 375 | Status: Completed

A Place To Stay

By: Araki

Disclaimer: Maki Marukami owns Gravitation, not I. If I owned it, I wouldn't be sitting here, I assure you. Anything Else I talk about in it (suppose Walt Disney, Cartoon Names, Actors, excreta…) I don't own, because I'm poor.

Pairings: Suguru x Shuichi

Summary: Suguru needs to find a place to stay; Shuichi is in desperate need for a roommate after he left Eiri. A simple placement as friends, roommates, and band mates turned into much more in time, leaving both poor boys confused on their feelings

Warnings: Fluff! Maybe some child molesting on poor Suguru's account

~*~*~

Shadowfox13-Sakura is not quite a main part of the story, but a side note of things to come. Unlike most writers that have layouts of what's supposed to happen and what this character means, I just pull things out of my ass, type them out, and call it a day. Eiri's main use in the story is to strengthen the hold Suguru has on Shuichi - as will be told in this chapter - and just an antagonist all together. Besides, in Eiri's case, he doesn't want his hole being fucked by something in relation to Tohma

Nora Shu - First things first, the name Inori Sakura was not mentioned to me, nor did I read online. It's more like, I was typing and decided to use a last name from one of the mangas I own, and misspelled the name. It was suppose to be Ioroi, but because I didn't go to check up the name while writing it, Inori has to stay (since I have this story on 3 sites, and soon my website). I neither meant to offend you, or use the name; it's a spelling error on my behalf that can't be changed. Next, I've always used Japanese words in my stories. You can't teach old dogs new tricks, so it has to stay.

GoTrinba - I've always liked the idea of SuguruxShuichi, but since it's a cannon pairing, it's not well looked upon because of the relationship shown in the manga. I've always known that if you pull a few strings, love can work out with every character. Eiri's my antagonist, he's going to cause mayhem for poor Suguru's sanity - the boy won't let Shuichi go so easily. He'll lose his home if he does.

I - Nobody else has said anything about the kanji symbols, and I didn't see them, so I think it's just your comp. He doesn't, unless he's with Hiro, but I like him better with Shuichi. Chapters take longer to update because I write over 8000 words per chapter.

Christy - I know there aren't. I think I've found a two on Fanfiction.net that are reasonable, and looking on gurabiteshinyon.

DeMoN4EvA - It's all right, the review gets me to continue. Thanks, I'll update maybe once a week, pending if I find time and my beta gets it back. She likes the story so much she reads it before checking it. Then, I send to my dad. Takes forever, but reasonable process.

cutelilpuppieeyez - Each chapter is long, so it takes some time. Suguru is a hard character to construct, I spent a lot of time screaming he was OOC in this one chapter, but I think I've worked “Suguru” back into character. Nope, besides, Tohma could get them out of trouble if needed.

Kitsune Thief - There will be many, for those that read through all the reviewer responses will know, this story will continue until Suguru turns 18, so it'll be awhile before it quits. Have to stabilize a relationship with Shuichi.

Aiseki Anrui - Yah! No Hiro, they're just good friends in here, to a point that Suguru can't stand his “ability to tell when a lie is stated, and get the person to say what's going on” sense. More in This chapter, lots of laughs.

Bluebibers - He's not dumb, and he has a lot of talent I've noticed. How often is it you can find someone able to trace a signal man across the globe, or survive bullet holes in his head. He has a lot of abilities people don't see, in the manga, it looked funny, but when he was using spray cans to draw on Yuki's walls, he showed artistic talents, he smart, but in his own way. I see him teaching primary education, but that's just me. He does well with kids, because he's one with them. Tohma's usually one of my favorite characters, but I've made him so OOC in my other two stories, I have to show I know the Tohma character.

Camellia - Hehe, More is here. I have writer's block, so I do have a friend with my fake sword behind me, telling me to work (it's the only way I can get over writer's block), so I don't need K-san.

XmakeXmeXfeelX - Portraying Suguru is hard, because he's the character that has trained expressions. I do know he has a lot of charisma (he has no problem dressing up for stupid shows, whatever promotes BAD LUCK!)

Blackrosebunny - Yes, I'm going to update. I'm not the type to write something and leave it (puts several fics under a rug so you can't tell I've left some because I've lost motivation) hehehe ^.^ I like this fic, it's fun to write.

~*~*~

A week of work preparing for a concert caused the two to be busier than they had ever been. Shuichi would sit in the corner with their kitten (which was named “Whiskers”, in English, incidentally from lack of imagination), a notebook in his hands and working on lyrics so he would be days ahead, singing them under his breath, and muttering that the key would be off. In his bedroom, Suguru would sit on his futon, his keyboard on his lap, leaning against the wall as he played all the arrangements one after another. After a while, he wasn't certain if it was the keyboard pulsing a rhythmic staccato with the music or whether it was the kids next door, but it did help the song and he ended up recording their kicks to get him to stop playing with his (as they called it) piano - though he continuously told them the name of his synthesizer.

It was their day off, to be truthful, and Suguru had waited for it longingly. K-san always made their day off on a Sunday, so that poor Suguru could have a real day off from school, running to work, homework, work-work, and Shuichi's horrible cooking. Sunday was take-out day (thankfully). The singer was steadily learning to cook, but burnt meals seemed to be all they got.

Suguru tapped a key on his keyboard; the soft beat filling the room. Earlier, he was playing study music from when he was still learning; ones like Mary had a Little Lamb and so forth. Shuichi was out…somewhere; Suguru had a feeling he was at the park, sulking on a bench. It wasn't a normal thing, just every time after Eiri would call. Suguru had suggested that the singer find a new lover, but when the words finally met his brain, a streak of jealousy had suddenly hit (for some unknown reason) and he despised the thought of Shuichi leaving him alone every other night to go on dates. Was it that he didn't want to be alone? Suguru wasn't certain, and he wasn't going to ask anybody either.

Seguchi had visited him twice; each time making sure Shuichi was crying and running away from him, screaming for Yuki. Each visit was undesired for the green haired keyboardist - first he had to go deal with Shuichi's tantrum, then spend a couple of minutes yelling at his cousin that they were doing fine. They were; the tabloids had calmed down with the slander, thanks to Tohma only those who still believed it, talked about it.

Which reminded him, where was the pink haired, hyperactive, idiotic, vocalist that everybody adored? Standing up, Suguru left the safety of his bedroom and walked towards the dark living room. Sakura was with her grandparents, so that was why it was quiet. Shuichi wasn't near the kitchen, so that left his room. The domain that Suguru had no permission to enter. A thin sliver of light escaped from under the door, but it wasn't helpful since the sun was setting, and Shuichi usually kept his window open. Raising his hand, he tapped it against the hard wood, waiting for a reply. None. “Shuichi-kun?” He asked out loud, and the bathroom door opened, a drenched Shuichi stepping out with a towel around his waist. The blood that was suppose to be In Suguru's face for a blush suddenly rushed down between his legs, causing him to step back trying to get a better hold on himself, and not fall over at the sight.

“Hm? Do you need something, Suguru-kun?” The boy asked, flicking hair out of his face, some of the towel dipped more, and Suguru had to force himself to stare up still.

Lithe legs wrapped around my waist… Suguru coughed, shaking his head quickly. “Um…you're t-taking a bath a wee bit early…um, uh…going somewhere?” He fought for words. Curse his eyes for wanting to look down to see if Shuichi's pink hair was true. Well, that's what he kept telling his brain. Really, he just wanted to look at Shuichi, see what he misses on stage. He'd be lying if he ever said Shuichi didn't turn him on while on stage.

“Ah.” Shuichi grinned. “I've gotta date! He should be here soon, I lost track of time, so I have to hurry and get ready. If he shows up, can you keep him occupied for a few minutes, Suguru-kun?” That kind smile was still there, and Suguru felt himself become harder by the minute, he stomach knotted.

“A date?”

Shuichi nodded, still grinning like a loon. “Yep! I met him while I was out shopping. He's a vet where we took Whiskers to get fixed. We're going dancing, a movie, and out to eat. This is going to be fun!” Shuichi grinned, and jumped towards his bedroom, his hyperactive side once more showing, not that the keyboardist was embarrassed or anything. A naked Shuichi, bouncing around put images in his head that weren't there unless it normally was a girl…Suguru blushed and started towards the living room to heat himself some snack food.

A date? When was Shuichi going to tell him about this? Hell, why did he even care! No, he didn't care one bit that the two would go dancing; their bodies pressed against each other's, the guy's hands on Shuichi's well defined ass cheeks, pulling the boy's waist against his own. He didn't care that at the movies the man would fake a yawn, wrap his arm around Shuichi's shoulders and in the right moment, pull the thoughtless genki singer into a kiss that could only lead to worse in the car. Nope, didn't care about the two playing footsie under the table at the restaurant as they fed each other. Didn't care if the man would give passionate kisses to the singer, leading the boy up to his apartment where, Shuichi would be in a daze since he never had before seen these types of affection, he'd lay Shuichi upon his bed, undress the genki singer and rape him. The microwave buzzed and Suguru shuddered, picturing Shuichi's moans and the squeaking bed.

Ring

The doorbell sounded causing Suguru to jump and stare at it as if some ahead would come out to get him. He could hear Shuichi's voice from his bedroom, telling him that it was his date - and Suguru wanted to just ignore the bell and watch TV, pretending none of this had ever happened.

Ring, Ring

The doorbell sounded again, and Suguru started towards the door, flinging it open in one movement. He remembered the man clearly; he had gone to pick up Whiskers because K-san had Shuichi Working on the vocals of one last song. The guy had black hair, clean shaven, three piercings in his left ear, and wore a blue leather jacket that showed the black, clinging, t-shirt under it. He was the average male height, towering over the seventeen year old. What was his name…Yagasha?

“It's nice to see you again. How's Whiskers?” The man smiled brightly. Suguru didn't respond, holding his hand out, he invited the man in his `home'. “Ah, I understand,” the man smiled brightly. A Tohma smile, unnerving to the bone, Suguru swore. “You don't remember me, do you? Doctor Yagasha Akari, Whiskers' vet.” He smiled. “I'm here to take your roommate, Shindou-san, out on a date.” He gave a pleasant bow. Still unnerved, Suguru nodded slightly.

“He's still getting ready,” Suguru blushed slightly, remembering the naked Shuichi dripping with water. “Would you like anything to drink? Water? Kool-Aid?” Poison? Suguru thought, a small smile on his face. This guy gave him the creeps. Another BAD LUCK fan, scoring a date with a celebrity because the boy was in desperate need for love.

The man shook his head. “Ah, no thanks.” He smiled. Suguru frowned, well shame, they didn't drink beer in that house…which reminded him of the rules he wanted to set out.

“Don't let Shuichi drink, he doesn't handle it well.” He smiled, Shuichi was an emotional drunk. Yuki-sama had once said the boy would spread his legs easily while drunk also…but Suguru didn't want to test that. Shuichi vocalist, Suguru keyboardist, they were business partners! Dating could screw up his career. “We are working tomorrow, have him home before midnight at the latest - any later, I'm calling our gun-handling manager to come find you.” Suguru smiled, yes that worked well. Guns, Japan, and K didn't mix well in the end.

Akira smiled, shaking his head with a laugh. “Are you his father? If you worry about people older than you, you're going to grow gray hairs at an early age. Shindou-san is a grown man, if he wants to stay out late, drink, and have a good time, let him. I know I will, with him as my company and all.” He smiled as the door opened, and Shuichi came out scratching his head.

“Mou, I'm sorry I'm late.” He grinned sheepishly. He wore - not one of his stage outfits, thank Buddha - his deep orange wife beater, green lace pants, and a jacket that had chains. His Shuichi had no fashion sense. “Remember Suguru, at least eat something today, Seguchi-sama is watching your weight everyday, and if it changes, I'm in trouble.” He smiled, and took Akira's hand. “Let's go!”

Suguru watched them go, his eyes watching warily as Akira's hands came close to goosing Shuichi's ass, and he frowned. Oh! How he hated people like that man, thinking just because he was still legally a kid, he didn't know what he was talking about! Waiting patiently for a couple minutes to go by, he grabbed his jacket and keys, slipped on his shoes, and followed close behind the two. No way in hell was he going to let Shuichi date a spineless pig!

~*~*~

He was cursing himself as he hid inside an alleyway, waiting for the crowds to go by. He left without grabbing a hat and glasses, how stupid could he get? He watched Shuichi and Akira go into a nightclub, Shuichi actually wearing a fishing cap that matched his outfit. They were laughing, about something… Growling, Suguru prepared to punch the wall of the alley, but a hand grabbed his fist, and a warm breath touched his ear, “boo”.

Jerking, the keyboardist turned to see the familiar face of the guitarist, the red head grinning brightly. “I thought you were visiting your parents tonight?” He finally asked. Yes, Hiro was…the poor guy was complaining about it at work, and Shuichi had tried cheering him up, saying that maybe his mother would bring up his career choice. Hiro's face lost some color with the question, nodding faintly.

“Um, yah. I took the cowards' way out. Unplugging my phone wasn't happening, and she was constantly calling my cell phone. In the end, I was going to crash at your guys' place until tomorrow when work starts again and my place is safe. Seeing that you're here, no need to go further, ne?” He smiled.

Suguru blinked, staring back at the nightclub before a grin fell upon his face as he clung onto his band mate's arm and dragged the poor man across the street. “Spend time with me, here, Hiro! So I don't have to be alone.”

“Uh…Suguru-kun…that's not very wise,” Hiro muttered, trying to pull back. “You don't have a disguise and…” He pointed at the crowds of waiting pedestrians outside the building and once more, Suguru froze. Damn it! If he hadn't forgotten a cap, he'd be in the clear. Tohma had given most of the bands passes for the underage to get into clubs with no problem, of course, he couldn't drink, but still - that wasn't the point! Shuichi was in there, with a guy that could purchase drinks, contaminant them, and use date rape drugs on their singer! “Why are you so hyped up to get in there? We'll go knock on the back door, explain to them what's going on, and they'll loan you something so you can have a good time in there.” Hiro rolled his eyes, tucking Suguru into his shoulder as his own cap lowered to cover his eyes. “Follow me…” He led the boy towards the back alleyway and Suguru fought the urge to cry. Hiro was a wonderful person!

As they got past the crowds, Hiro released his protective hold on the keyboardist, leaned back against the wall and stared warily at Suguru. “Why are you so eager to get in? This place doesn't look like your kind of scene…” He stated, and Suguru narrowed his eyes. No scene was his scene. “Of course, you're normally careful when you leave, so this hat problem states you were in a hurry.”

Ignoring the guitarist, Suguru beat upon the door, not surprised when a well-built man stepped out, glaring at them. “Hi…” Suguru whispered, staring up at the much taller man. Even the tall Hiro looked like a midget in comparison. “Um. I left my cover-up at home, and want to come in.”

“Front door.” The man growled, and Hiro held Suguru back, smiling brightly as he removed his cap and let his ponytail fall down.

“I understand that the backdoor is for employees only, but - y'see, we're from a very popular band, BAD LUCK, and if we were to be up there with the state of dress Suguru is in, what, without a cap or glasses, we'll be swamped by fan girls, maybe guys. That's not something you want, they cause damage when they're hyped up. So, as you can see, us going up there would be deadly for us, as well as your…fine establishment.” Hiro bullshit the last comment, and Suguru snorted.

“`BAD LUCK'?” The tall man raised his thinning brow, the rest of his balding head rising with them. “That group with the pink haired singer that the kids these days listen to all the time?” He stared around, and Suguru could see him doing the math in his head. “Where's the pink haired kid?” He asked. Good, Suguru smiled, realizing what he was thinking about. Celebrities showing up would give him more costumers, a full house, lots of cash.

Hiro raised a red brow, staring at the green haired keyboardist who chuckled slightly. “We're all here. Shu-kun's,” He used the nickname to make them look even closer as a band, increasing their chances of getting in, “already inside. He has his disguise, but I know what he looks like right now, so it'd be all of us here, in one place, you're place.” He raised his brows, hoping the man would get the idea. They couldn't very well play; all his equipment for his keyboards was at home, no tunes - so there was no concert.

“Don't stand out here, catching your deaths, come in, and come in.” The man raised his hands, allowing them in, and Hiro followed behind Suguru. As the man left, to fetch their band for that night, Hiro gripped the keyboardist hand, his lips coming close his ear.

“What the fuck are you doing? Shuichi's here?” He glared, his voice his voice staying low, but growing with anger.

“Surveillance.” Suguru shrugged his shoulders; it wasn't that big of a deal. He was working to help the band. “See, if Shuichi has a bad date, we all suffer at work. Besides, I don't like the guy very much.” He explained, kind of. Hiro didn't buy it as he stared around, making sure they were still alone.

“You-!” He lowered his tone, taking in a deep breath. “Just when you've proven yourself to be completely different in personality from Seguchi-sama, you go and break up another chance Shuichi has at dating a decent guy just because you don't like him. He's going to wallow in pity anyway!” He made a reassuring wave at the owner before gripping Suguru's shoulders.

“Thought you were his best friend. The guy already told me he has more planned then a nice date with Shuichi. He's going to hurt Shuichi, and I'm trying to be nice to him! Besides, I think if we ever do start having serious relationships, shouldn't the big question be if they can accept everyone in the band? This guy can't stand me, and I doubt he could stand your innocent meddling.” Suguru hissed, staring up, he watched the approaching owner and smiled brightly.

“Excuse me, but would BAD LUCK mind introducing our band, maybe play a tune or two?” He asked, giving a polite bow.

“I see.” Suguru grinned. “But I don't have my sounds for the synthesizer, which is a big thing with our music.” He gave a small, polite smile. “I apologize, but originally this was to be a small band meeting with us, but Shuichi came early, and in my haste, I left my hat - so no tunes, and Hiro-kun,” he addressed the growling redhead, “Will likely be a little nervous to play since he skipped out on a dinner arrangement to spend time with us.” He hissed as the guitarist pinched him to shut him up.

“Then you can introduce yourselves, to our crowds. It'll be wonderful.” He smiled, and nodded. “The pink one, where is he?” He stared around, and Hiro raised his hand.

“I'll go get him.” Hiro muttered, turning around. Reaching, Suguru grabbed his sleeve, sending pleading eyes. “I won't tell him you're here to stop this date. I understand already why you're here.” He smiled, and Suguru tilted his head, confused. “You're afraid that if Shuichi starts dating, he'll leave you. You'll lose the place you're staying at, and you'll lose him. You're starting to understand why I haven't tossed him off the side of a building just yet, and liking him more as a human being…maybe even more.” Hiro winked and turned just as Suguru's cheeks turned red.

“I…I don't like!” Suguru yelled.

Raising his hand in an uncaring motion, Hiro chuckled out, “Whatever you say, man.”

Growling, Suguru stared at the club's owner with a spark of challenge. “So we're just going out there, introduce your playing band, and then we're free to go?” He didn't want to stay anymore; Hiro had the wrong idea about his relationship with Shuichi. They were just roommates, Shuichi was only giving a place to stay, there was nothing more and nothing less. Besides, Suguru may have been walking the fence - making him bi - but his taste were much like his cousin's, and he didn't fall for pink haired, over active, idiotic singers.

“Well…” The man held up a piece of paper and pen, “Can I have your autograph, Fujisaki-sama?” He smiled, and the green haired senior in high school reached out to scratch out his kanji name. “Okay, the band is this group, Twilight Night, they're in the back rooms. Would you like me to show you the way?”

Shaking his head, Suguru watched as Hiro dragged an angry Shuichi towards them; both were talking quietly about the guy. As the owner had Shuichi autograph the paper, Hiro leaned forward, whispering in the keyboardist's ear, “You're right, the guy was a prick.” He gave a friendly smile to the owner before chuckling. “So, we're just introducing ourselves and the band, ne?”

“Then we must find a way out of here and home, what with the mobs following.” Suguru whined, pulling off his jacket and placing it on a chair near the back door. Hiro did the same, dropping his cap and hair tie with a scowl. “The band is called Twilight Night, and I swear, they better play well or we're screwed if we just go up there and say `this awesome band', and they play like crap.”

“It won't be that bad…” Shuichi finally stated his opinion, though he still stared at them a little. “I'm really sorry, if I knew that you wanted to spend tonight with the band, Suguru, I would have canceled my date.” Suguru glared at Hiro, watching the redhead smile brightly. “We're not playing, so it won't be like we're downplayed back to clubs from the big works.” He grinned, and Hiro nodded.

“That would suck.” Hiro grumbled. Suguru didn't reply as he watched the back doors - where Twilight Night was hanging, opened and a guy with long, black hair in a braid stare out. He said something to the rest, and they all stuck their heads out, looking at the NG band. Soon they were talking amongst themselves, shocked that someone like BAD LUCK would be there to introduce them - something like `just like how Sakuma-sama helped Shindou-san when they first started!'

Hiro and Shuichi talked amiably about…something, Suguru didn't much care as the owner disappeared through the crowds to get everything set up for their guest up front before the band played. Shuichi grumbled something along the lines of, “Akira is okay, he likes to hear me talk - so much more than Yuki…I'm sorry, and I'm doing it again…” Suguru turned to face the singer, holding up his hand. The Yuki jar just received another hundred yen piece. Shuichi dug through his pockets, handing the coin over, before grumbling something along the lines of `curse that jar'.

“What the hell…?” Hiro stared at the coin Suguru was inspecting - as if Shuichi would give a fake yen piece.

“The Yuki Jar,” Suguru smiled, “He says anything about Yuki, and he gives me yen for the jar. Sort of like those bad word jars mothers make for when her husband or children say something wrong. We're at three thousand yen, he hasn't learned yet.” He placed it in his pants pocket. Shuichi grumbled again, something about `stupid keyboardist and ruining my mood'. Suguru grinned brightly.

“BAD LUCK!” The owner ran towards them, smiling brightly. “We're about to start. Twilight Night has played a lot here, they're good enough - of course, if they weren't, they wouldn't have drawn in such crowds.” He signaled for them to follow to follow, and Shuichi stared around.

“Um…how do we do this…?” He whispered, causing both Suguru and Hiro freeze near the entrance to the stage as the owner went on how they had wonderful guests tonight, and so forth. None of BAD LUCK was playing attention as they stared at one another.

“Um…I do have a disk in my jacket for my keyboard that has most of our tunes, but we can't play! K-san will be really pissed.” Suguru whined. “And, we just need to introduce them and get out of here, since it's not safe!” The owner waved them over, but none made a move. “What do we do?” He hissed.

“Introduce Twilight, wave for a second, and walk away.” Shuichi raised his arms in the air (very cheer like), and Hiro agreed as the two stepped out. Slowly, Suguru followed them to the center and gasps filled the whole club, fan girls' screams started up, and Suguru felt the color drain from his face. They were asking if the band would play anything. Shuichi was staring through the crowds, looking for Akira, and Suguru watched far back as the said man glared at him and Hiro before leaving. Serves you right bastard, Suguru smiled as Hiro waved.

Giving up to look for the man, Shuichi waved. “Hi! We're BAD LUCK!” His voice rang out; really, he didn't need a microphone when you got him riled up. “Hiro and Suguru,” he addressed the two, and they waved (Suguru more sheepishly), “decided that we should introduce your band for the night. To be honest, we don't know what they sound like-“

“We hear they're good,” Hiro cut in, and Suguru nodded.

“Yep, very good, and that you're here to listen to them!” Shuichi cheered, and Suguru stepped back - too much Shuichi Excitement for one night. “So, we introduce the club's band Twilight Night!” Hiro and Shuichi said together, as if they planned it all along without Suguru's help. The green haired keyboardist watched the band come towards their instruments; they looked like scared kittens, ashamed to be in the presence of the big cats. Sighing, Suguru cried out as Shuichi began pulling him towards the back, his face turned to look through the screaming crowds. “Do you see him, Hiro?” He whispered. “I have to tell him that we need to go somewhere else.”

Hiro looked himself, shaking his head. “I don't see him, Shu'.” He said in all honesty, and Suguru put his hands on his hips.

“He glared at Hiro-san and myself and left when we first got up there.” He played the role of the poor man that had just wanted to spend time with the band - not the gleeful side that he actually got rid of the no good veterinarian. “We swear, we didn't mean to spoil your guys' date, but if he's not going to understand what happened, then maybe he's not for you.” He suggested, and Shuichi nodded. “Good, let's go get something to eat,” He played the band card (and the fact that his dinner was still in the microwave at home), “and then go home.”

The group nodded, and Shuichi clung onto Hiro's arm. “Ah! Let's get pizza!” Hiro cheered, and Suguru turned his face. All was well, no questions asked - well, except for the wary look Hiro was giving him.

~*~*~

Shuichi ran into the house before the other two did, reaching for Whiskers quickly. “I told you, Hiro! Pretty cat!” He put the creature in front of the guitarist's face. Suguru snorted, walking into the kitchen to deposit the four hundred yen he received from Shuichi into the Yuki Jar. Getting better. Reaching into the microwave, he dumped his cold meal in the trashcan before pulling out three bottles of water. Hiro took it, happily, before popping the lid off the bottle. “K-san did our grocery shopping,” Shuichi explained, “Seguchi-san wants to make sure Suguru is eating healthy while he's here-”

“Says he who eats junk food a lot,” Suguru cut in, referring to his own cousin. Reaching over, he stared at the answering machine, not shocked in the least that the light was flashing. You have one new message beep, he muttered with the machine, Suguru, I would like you to join me for breakfast, tomorrow. Over at the café not to far from NG, I thought you and I could talk about your…living arrangements again. Talk to you tomorrow, remember I love you Suguru, if you need anything, don't hesitate to call me. Suguru snorted, leave it to Tohma to disturb him for the night.

Shuichi smiled, shaking his head slightly, “anyway. K-san decided that it'd be best to make sure Suguru and I was eating healthy because I have a certain weight to maintain, so does Suguru. Just so you know, don't be shocked if he weasels his way into your apartment and throws away perfectly good food. Hide the good things before he arrives - in guitar cases if you're drastic enough.” Suguru nodded to that. He had hidden lots of sweetened foods in his keyboard case while K-san had thrown out box meals that had too much sugars or cholesterol, and especially saturated fats. In the end, lots of vegetables, pre-made meals for special diets, milk, water, and some juice (each said, One a day, two total - I'll be watching, K-san was scary when he wanted something done). Shuichi had hid boxes of pocky in his room, where was what Suguru was still trying to figure out.

“Wanna play some games, Hiro? Sakuma-sama, in exchange for borrowing one of my games, loaned me one of his!” He reached for the controllers as Hiro took a seat on the couch. Shrugging, Suguru walked over, next to Hiro, and sat down - not at all surprised when the third controller was placed in his hands. He never planned on saying it, but the game was addicting, and it did relieve some of the tension around him. Besides, choosing guns and attacking his two band mates seemed like a decently good idea.

He wasn't at all shocked, the next morning, when he awoke to a gun in his face. His head was pillowed against Hiro's chest, Shuichi sleeping on the floor, on a pillow he had brought out of his bedroom to sit on. K-san didn't look the least bit pleased with the situation at hand. Glancing at his wristwatch, Suguru jerked up quickly. Noon! They were late…all of BAD LUCK was late! K-san was giving the other two wake up calls, telling them no time for baths, to go get dressed, and in the car pronto.

Suguru took off into his room, pulling off the tunic he had worn all night with a grumble. Keyboard disk…check, he shoved the needed supplements for his keyboard in his book bag, reaching to pull on a new shirt, the pants were still okay. Hair, clothes, he stared in the mirror, determined that he looked reasonable enough for work, except for the pieces of hair still sticking up in the air and in his face - otherwise known as cockroach hair by Shuichi. Brushing his hair down, he turned to check himself over before he left the room. Figuring nothing was forgotten, Suguru turned out the door, greeted once more by K-san's choice of weaponry of the day. A semi-automatic. Oh joy. Suguru nodded towards it, mocked saluted and hurried out. “Car. Now. No dawdle!” He started running.

Halfway down the stairs, he had almost slipped twice, once over a toy, the second time over his own two feet. Leaning against the cool texture that was K-san's car, Suguru whined. Nothing ever went right, not anymore. His father was getting treatment, his stepmother wanted him home, and Tohma had offered him a place. No one seemed to have any faith in the changing Shuichi. Of course, if this were someone else living with Shuichi, Suguru doubted the two could have survived as long.

Hearing gunshots told him that the two other members would be down soon, Shuichi was probably crying for something to eat, like toast. Suguru checked the door handle before sighing. Locked. Why did he feel like he was forgetting something? He touched his backpack straps, looked down to make sure he was wearing pants and a shirt, and that his hair was brushed. What could be so important that it'd eat at his conscious? Giving up on thinking, Suguru opened his eyes to stare at the stairs as Hiro jumped down the last few steps, taking off protectively to the other side of the car behind the driver, one of them was doomed to sit by the infuriated K, and it was volunteered to be Shuichi.

Some things were beginning to scare him when it came to Shuichi. The boy's pouting lips, those came to mind. Suguru had a dream that started with the pink skin attached to his own, their tongues fighting for dominance…in Suguru's bedroom. It went from the innocence of kissing to the steaming of `mattress play', and Suguru jerked awake with a scream. Shuichi was a light sleeper, and had run in to make sure everything was okay. Suguru had told him nothing about the nightmare, but ended up speaking to Shuichi's lips - his eyes never left the pink skin. Shuichi's cry startled him as the boy took off, shrieked about having to sit up front, but K-san's gun stopped all complaints as he walked over to the driver's seat. With a click, all the doors opened and BAD LUCK stumbled into their assigned seats.

K-san sat up front, laughing and talking about…something, but Suguru ignored him, finding that it wasn't at all important the minute they turned towards NG, and away from the school that gave him notice that he was completely skipping school today. K said something about their busy schedule, now they'd be staying until late, and he wanted songs actually recorded, lots of songs! Suguru grumbled; he didn't feel like playing today. Their manager continued chatting about an upcoming talk show that wanted to interview BAD LUCK, going on about answering only reasonable questions, and not any about the living arrangements. Suguru nodded his head, but still paid no mind to what was being said. “Oh, Fujisaki-san,” K-san stared back at the keyboardist.

Staring up, Suguru tried to catch a view of the speed they were going, Shuichi's clenching of the seat was enough to tell them it was past speed limit, Hiro's look of pure horror as they missed another upcoming vehicle did not reassure him to look out any windows. “Hai, K-san?” He smiled.

“Seguchi-sama wants to see you upon arrival at NG. You guys should be glad it's not all of you over being late, he didn't seem pleased when I said I was having trouble finding Hiro, much less that Suguru was on the absent list at school and Shuichi was still at home.” He swerved the car, and all three band members cried out as they narrowly missed a car and pulled into the garage.

Tohma? Suguru blinked, what did he do that his cousin would want to see him besides miss school? He thought long and hard as they stepped out and started towards the elevators. As the doors slid shut, and Shuichi finally detached himself from Hiro's arm, Suguru's eyes widened. Breakfast! He'd stood up Tohma!

It took several minutes, and a couple of stops, before he made it to Tohma's office and raced into the older cousin's office. Quickly, he fell to his knees, begging forgiveness for standing up the man, for missing school, and whatever he could think off. Of course, Seguchi gave that chuckle, the `it was okay' chuckle before shaking his head. “It's alright, Suguru. We can talk here, I suppose.”

“No!” Suguru whined. “Because you're going to suggest that I leave Shuichi, stay with you, and leave him to his own things! I'll get mad, yell back that everything was okay, stop picking on Shuichi because he's an okay idiot, and you'll get mad and say I'm being unreasonable, and-”

“You've been keeping track of the recent argument chains, hm?” Tohma smiled, before waving his hand at the man Suguru hadn't even noticed upon entrance. Ryuichi waved Kumagorou's hands, laughing brightly. “I realized you don't want to leave Shuichi alone, because he's instable. He's like Ryu-kun, if I just leave him to his own things, something will hurt him, or he'll hurt someone.” The singer huffed, turning his head. “We've decided that he'll take your place, with Shuichi. Shuichi will make sure Ryuichi stays in line, just as Ryu-kun takes care of Shuichi. You don't have to worry, and I'll purchase you an apartment in a reasonable area not far from the school or work.” He leaned forward. “Is that a better plan?”

Suguru rolled his eyes, crossing his arms. “Japanese law says I can't live on my own.”

“That's why I'm paying for it. The loophole is, you have to have a benefactor. I'm signing your paycheck, I'm giving you a place to stay, you're much more mature than most teenagers your own age, and as long as you do reasonably well in your school exams, not missing any work or school unless sick, Japan is okay with it.” Tohma's easy smile stayed on his lips. Suguru turned to face Ryuichi as the man-child played with his stuffed, pink rabbit. So, Tohma wanted to put one idiot with another idiot that had special needs? He thought his cousin was smarter than that.

“You put out a beautifully crafted plan,” Suguru stated, emotionlessly.

Tohma smiled, leaning forward. “Yes, well. Eiri-san is getting over Shuichi slowly, I'm a little upset about his choice of one-night stands, but he'll get over it soon. You're just there, making certain Shuichi doesn't go back to Eiri, and we both desire the same thing.”

“No we don't.” Suguru continued. “You worked hard for not, Tohma. You want me out of Shuichi's life, Eiri wants me out of Shuichi's life, and Ryuichi can barely take care of himself, much less Shuichi in the state he's in. I cannot leave Shuichi, I'm doing what's good for the band, making certain he completely gets over Yuki-san and returns as the bundle of charisma we're use to having. This isn't about living arrangements; it's about what you want. You don't want Shuichi to be happy when anyone that's close to you. You don't like the fact that Shuichi's bringing the teenager out in me, something many of my teachers have tried to do. `Loosen up, Fujisaki-kun, you're only young once', they say. While I've lived with Shuichi, I've loosened up, I might arrive late for work one time or another, but BAD LUCK was out, last night, together as a band. Aren't we suppose to be in union if we ever want to get somewhere?” He turned. “I decline your offer, my dear cousin. Please stop bothering Shindou-san and myself, we're doing well together.” He stepped out the door with strength in his steps. As he got in the elevator, and the doors closed, he slumped, becoming a boneless pile on the floor. What had he just done…?

~*~*~

“Wah…” Shuichi bawled, hoarsely, as they entered the apartment a eleven that night. “My throat really hurts, and if I ever hear that song again, I'll just crack.” He reached towards the medicine cabinet and shoved a cough drop in his mouth. Suguru stared at wearily before dropping upon the couch. His legs, they were so stiff. Reaching towards the arm of the couch, he pulled his legs up and dropped them on the other side, pleased that he at least slipped his shoes off on entering the house. Shuichi was still crying as he searched through the fridge, pulling out two made salads, and sat them on the counter. “Dinner.” His voice cried, cracking. Suguru grumbled. To get up and stagger over to the table, or to stay on the couch and cry he couldn't move just so Shuichi would bring it over to him. Second was looking really good at that moment. Reaching up, he made slight whimpering sounds and Shuichi took pity on him, walking into the living room to help him into a sitting position before placing a salad on his lap. Yah! It actually worked!

“K-san says we have to arrive really early tomorrow, or he'll hunt us down.” Suguru whined, school open house was tomorrow, no school all week, a break that had been granted for once, but he had to work. Whine! Bringing the salad fork towards his mouth, he chewed on the piece of lettuce. “I don't think I can sing tomorrow, my throat really hurts.”

“You're talking to me just fine.” Suguru muttered, chomping on the food. They didn't have lunch…or breakfast. Food…energy reserves were low; maybe he should go relax in the tub until he needed to go to bed. His comment made a small cry escape from Shuichi's mouth, about him being a meanie - just like `him'. Suguru struggled for minute, unsure if that was a yen piece to the Yuki Jar or not. Eh, let it go, he shrugged.

Shuichi was, thankfully, quiet for a few minutes, before his voice laced out, “I wonder what Yuki is doing?” He dropped four hundred yen in the Yuki Jar. “Probably sitting at his computer, dick in his hand as he writes about some girl in his books being deflowered.” He whined. Two sentences, Suguru's eye twitched as he reached through the cushions of the couch. Where was it? He stuck his tongue out, licking his lips. “Why didn't it work out, Yuki?” He screamed, laying his head in his hands. “I still love him, Suguru…at night, I feel his hands - Ow!” He screamed, jumping back as Suguru held up the water gun that had been used to spray that cat when she got on the table or begged for food during dinner, or at any other time. “What was that for!” He asked. “Now I'm all wet!” He glared at the keyboardist, who gave an equal glare.

“Obviously, the Yuki Jar is not working,” He waved towards the overfilling coin jar. “Don't think you're getting them back, either. That's been paying for my school lunches.” he smirked.

“What!” Shuichi screamed.

“You talk about him so much; I buy lunch with the yen you have to give up.” Suguru shrugged, before repositioning his hand on the trigger of the small water gun. “Anyway, like I was saying. The jar isn't doing much good anymore, you're putting coins in there to buy sentences!” Shuichi twitched. “If I hear one more comment about Yuki, Eiri, writer, or the meanie Uesugi, I'll spray you just like we do with Whiskers. I'm going to buy a bigger one just so it affects you more!” He growled as Shuichi stomped towards his bedroom door.

“You're so mean, Suguru!” He yelled back.

“I learned from the master!” Suguru yelled back, referring to his cousin. Shuichi understood quickly and childishly stuck his tongue out - Suguru returned the gesture. “Spoil your sheets and you can clean them yourself, because I refuse to do your laundry this week if you're going to make a mess out of them!” He yelled at Shuichi, and the boy said something unintelligible from behind the door about it being his laundry week, but Suguru ignored him. Going back to sit down, he replaced the squirt gun back in the cushions of the couch with a wicked grin.

“I'm going to go soak in the tub, my legs feel like bricks.” He stood up, and clutched the wall to stay on his stiff legs, slowly making it towards the bathroom.

Shuichi stuck his head out from his bedroom, “I miss Yuki.” He finally said, and Suguru growled, he should have brought the squirt gun with him. “No,” he smirked. “Not that Yuki, winter yuki.” He grinned, and Suguru rolled his eyes.

“Autumn is starting up, and you can't wait for snow? Just wait, you're going to wake up in a puddle tomorrow, Shuichi!” He slammed the bathroom door shut as Shuichi closed his own bedroom door and locked it. Leaning back against the door, Suguru felt a twinge of red escape on his cheeks. He had been known to fight with Shuichi, but to be turned on by fighting with Shuichi? Thinking about a wet Shuichi, almost naked, in his arms. Slamming his fist into his scalp, he sat upon the floor. No, no. He was straight. Shuichi was just a band mate. A good band mate and they were having a petty argument. All would be okay soon, one day; he'd sit back and laugh about ever thinking he had feelings for Shuichi. Won't I? He stared at the ceiling. When did he turn into a lovesick fool?