Gravitation Fan Fiction ❯ Break Through ❯ Rockin' Station ( Chapter 19 )

Disclaimer: I do not own Gravitation yada, yada…

For mature readers only.

 

First I would like to apologize for taking so long to update. I don't want to give you any excuses, so I'll get to the point. This chapter is not betaed so forgive any errors. I went over the chapter twice to correct anything I might have missed.

 

 

Part IV: Shuichi

 

 

 

Chapter Eighteen: Rockin' Station

 

Hiro walked into the studio, unconsciously looking for Tohma. Since his lover left the night before, he hadn't called to tell him what had gone on and the more Hiro thought about it, the more he wanted to pull his hair. The guitar player wouldn't normally care had this been any of his former flames, but for some reason the blonde producer had etched himself into his skin and mind like a tattoo.

 

He looked around, and other than the crew, there was no sing of anyone from either band.

 

“Morning Hiroshi-san! You're the first one in.” One of the crew members waived from his place by the mixers.

 

“Hey!” Hiro waved back and went to his guitar. A woman immediately came to offer him a cup of steaming coffee. Hiro smiled at her as took it gratefully. He hadn't been able to sleep after Tohma left, so he found himself needing the java very badly. “Is Seguchi-san in yet? He asked sipping some of the hot liquid.

 

“I haven't seen him.” The woman replied sitting next to him, “Did Shuichi-kun come with you?”

 

“Does he ever? I thought it was your job to make sure he came on time. Aren't you his assistant?” Hiro joked, knowing full well that it was virtually impossible to keep tabs on his dear friend. Although this time, Hiro knew the hyper active singer had a good reason to sleep in late.

 

“I been calling all morning, but I think he's not listening to his messages.” The woman whined frustrated. Hiro realized why Sakano-san had pick her to be Shu's do girl… she sounded just like him.

 

Hiro got up and handed her the cup. “I'm going upstairs; I guess they'll call me when the others get here.” Hiro said and went out of the studio almost bumping into a running Suguru.

 

“Good morning Hiro-kun? Is Sakuma-san here yet?” The boy seemed more stressed than usual. Hiro ordinarily would have teased him, but he wasn't in the mood at the moment, he just wanted to get upstairs and find Tohma.

 

“Nah, I'm the first.” He shook his head.

 

“Fuck!” The boy cursed knitting his brow; Hiro raised his, but didn't ask.

 

“I'm going upstairs; call me when everyone gets here ok?”

 

“Yeah, sure…” Suguru agreed, and went inside the studio lost in thought. Hiro watched him for a few moments, contemplating whether he should go back and ask if everything was fine, but decided that he really wasn't in the mood, and really didn't care at this moment. He went to the top floor and into Tohma's office without knocking, and was surprised to see him sitting at his desk staring out the window with a glassy look in his eyes.

 

“Hey” Hiro sad softly as he made his way towards him. Tohma shifted his eyes and his whole face brightened by a breathtakingly beautiful smile.

 

“Hey,” The older man replied softly.

 

“Been here long?” Hiro kissed the bridge of Tohma's nose lightly, but the producer held on to the back of his head and gave him a yawning fervent kiss that almost took Hiro's breath away.

 

“A couple of hours,” Tohma let him go, and replied the question Hiro had already forgotten.

 

“How did it go?” Hiro wasn't sure what to ask. He wanted to know of course, but he would not push Tohma into telling him anything he felt uncomfortable talking about.

 

“I told her it was over.” Tohma let out softly, “I thought I'd feel dreadful, distraught, guilty, anything! But I'm not. I'm such a horrible person.” He breathed softly to himself.

 

“Is this what you've been doing here for the last couple of hours, thinking about how horrible you are?” Hiro took the man's hand and guided him to the sofa. “You are not horrible. People change, their priorities and feelings change, but that doesn't make them bad. If you were to leave me to go with someone else, that wouldn't make you horrible, nor would it make me a victim. The point of life is to look for happiness, find it, and enjoy it for the rest of your days. You don't stop looking for your paradise until you find it.” Hiro spoke the words so close to Tohma's mouth that it seemed they were breathed into him.

 

“To many that would sound selfish.” Tohma breathed back.

 

“Then be selfish.” Hiro took the older into a crushing embrace that ended with another searing kiss. Tohma could not remember a time when he felt more alive, needed… loved. Slowly he brought his arms around the young man who had captured his heart completely and they stayed just like that for a long time.

 

“I love you.” Tohma whispered after a while.

 

“I love you too.” Hiro breathed back, holding the man so tight, he might crush his bones.

 

 

XXX

 

Tatsuha was the first to wake. The sun hit him right on the face. His skin still tingled from the mind blowing dream he'd had the night before. He closed his eyes invoking the still vivid images.

 

“Damn… why did I have to wake up?” He groaned frustratingly, blowing a stray strand of hair from his face. He fancied that he could still smell the intoxicating scent from his dream. Could still feel the softness of Ryuichi's hair as it threaded through his fingers, his soft lips, hot skin… the whole of him. “Am I a fucking looser or what?” Another deep sigh left the teen… then another, but this one, did not come from him. Tatsuha turned sharply, his heart beating fast as realization hit him…oh my god, oh my god... the teen thought as the simple act of turning his head around took forever. Gasping loudly when he saw, laying next to him, the man of his dreams, Sakuma Ryuichi.

 

A smile spread across Tatsuha's face, and a tug at his heart that grew in intensity with each passing heartbeat.

 

“Oh my fucking god… it wasn't a dream!” The young monk whispered in quiet awe. Getting on one elbow, Tatsuha watched the sleeping form of his love for a few minutes. Then, bringing his lips an inch from the singer's; he let the warm breath of his love wash over his face. Closing the distance, Tatsuha kissed the pink lips below softly. And hesitantly, brought a hand and let it rest on Ryuichi's smooth stomach. Green eyes fluttered open.

 

“Good morning love.” Tatsuha whispered, another deep sigh escaped Ryuichi, and the feeling that overcame the young monk scared him. It was so intense, that it couldn't be real. For a moment Ryuichi didn't seem to know where he was. So Tatsuha took this as an opportunity to become bolder in his explorations. The monk kissed the rosy lips again, but more aggressively this time, and let his hand travel the short distance from the smooth belly, to the core of his obsession's body. Running it the length of it a few times, and waking it from its limp form.

 

Ryuichi's eyes opened wide, and he sat up suddenly, “Kuma-chan!” The singer exclaimed and searched around the bed, ignoring Tatsuha -who just sat back and stare-completely.

 

Then, Ryuichi grabbed his head, as the splitting headache, from his impending hangover hit him full force. “Where is Kuma-chan?” He asked again barely above a whisper, wincing from the pain.

 

“Morning.” Tatsuha chanted again lovingly, obviously not knowing what the singer was talking about.

 

“My head…” Ryuichi whined, still not acknowledging Tatsuha, who waited anxiously, for those beautiful green eyes to turn his way. They did, but still no recognition in them. “Did we…?” Ryuichi asked, and then realizing that the answer was pretty obvious, he lowered his head and seemed to be lost in thought.

 

Tatsuha hid his disappointment behind a cool smile. He stretched pretending it was no big deal, but inside he wanted to scream.

 

“Shu has Kuma-chan!” Ryuichi brightened as he remembered his best friend's whereabouts. “I hope he brings him to the studio today… I really miss him.” The older man got up from the bed, and stretched languidly, looking almost feline. Another pull hit Tatsuha, only this time it wasn't desire, but hurt instead.

 

“At what time did you have to be at the studio?” The teen asked casually, hiding his emotions well under cold black eyes-- the way he always did when he felt rejected.

 

“Huh?” Ryu looked puzzled for a second, “Oh right! The new song… what time is it?” He asked alarmed.

 

“About ten.” Tatsuha blurted dismissively getting to his feet as well and stretching again. The magical night was definitely over.

 

“Dammit! I'm already late! How come K-kun didn't wake me up?” Ryuichi exclaimed rummaging around for his clothes.

 

“Bathroom's that way,” Tatsuha pointed anticipating the question, “Do you remember anything?” he asked hopeful.

 

“I never do!” Ryuichi as he dashed to the bath. Leaving Tatsuha alone in the room, sitting on the bed to wonder on the meaning of that statement. He was not one to sweat the small stuff, and although this was not the outcome he had dreamed of, he had been through enough of Eiri's disregard, and the rest of his family's mental abuse to let this minor setback get him down. Tatsuha bowed to himself to win the absent minded singer's heart no matter what the cost, one way or another. Last night had proved that it could be done, hell! He got Ryuichi into bed in the first try… the rest should be a piece of cake.

 

Ryuichi came out of the bathroom a few minutes later, fully dressed with his hair dripping wet. He headed toward the door without a word to Tatsuha.

 

“Hey, wait up! I'll take you to the studio.” The teen got up and searched for his clothes.

 

“It's ok, I'll hail a cab.” Ryuichi smiled warmly.

 

“Do you even know where the NG building is? Besides, you don't have a wallet.”

 

“How do you know that?” Ryu asked confused, searching his pockets.

 

“That's why we wound up here,” Tatsuha stated, heading to the bathroom. Once in there, the monk closed the door and leaned against it for a few moments; fighting with his emotions not to take over. “Calm down man… you'll get him.” He told himself. Sighing deeply, the monk went into the shower and let the cold water hit him full force.

 

He came out once dried and dressed, to find Ryuichi looking out the window deep in thought. His green eyes looked almost glassy in contrast with the shining sun.

 

“Ready?” Tatsuha asked softly, not to startle him.

 

“Eh? yeah. I was trying to remember what happened last night.” Ryuichi said lowly. A little glimmer of hope lighted Tatsuha's heart.

 

“Did you?” The monk asked hopeful.

 

“Not really, but whatever it was, I want you to know that I'm sorry for causing you trouble.”

 

“For causing me trouble?” Tatsuha repeated amusedly, but deeply hurt “We had sex… believe me, it was no trouble at all. In fact, you can cause me trouble anytime you want.” He joked. Ryuichi smiled again and nodded, heading toward the door.

 

“I don't want you to hate me, but I like someone else. I like him a lot, and I don't want you to think that I'm always like this.” Ryuichi added over his shoulder, as Tatsuha followed in silence. The monk nodded, he could not let the older man see how much those words affected him. He flashed his trademark smirk, and came closer to Ryuichi.

 

“Hey, what's that? No need for apologies. I was drunk too; just not enough not to remember.” Tatsuha put a hand on Ryu's back and led him to the elevators. “I'll have the front desk get us a taxi.”

 

“Oh right, I owe you don't I? I'll tell K-kun to get in touch with you.”

 

“C'mon now… you already paid.” Tatsuha flashed him another smirk.

 

“I'm not sore, which means I had all the fun.” Ryuichi smirked as well, “Was I good?” He asked sarcastically.

 

“Oh you were, I'm almost jealous of the `someone' you like”

 

“Ah, don't be mean to my Shu!” Ryuichi smirked wider and grabbed his head again, wincing, “I better take something for this headache.”

 

“Yeah, you won't make it through the day if you don't.” Tatsuha laughed, cursing Shuichi inwardly.

 

“I don't care about the `whole' day, I just want something to get me through K-kun's nagging,” Ryu added rolling his eyes.

 

“K… What about Tohma?” Tatsuha could almost hear his brother-in -law preaching.

“Oh, Tohma-kun is ok, he won't bother me… he got some last night, so he should be in a pretty good mood today.”

 

“Got some last night?” Tatsuha raised a brow.

 

“Yeah, he'll be alright, thanks to… what's his name again? Oh Hiro-kun.” Ryuichi said as he pressed the button to call the elevator.

 

“Hiro! Isn't he Bad Luck's guitarist?”

 

“Yup, Tohma and he are… you know.” Ryu raised his eyebrows up and down rapidly.

 

“What!?” Tatsuha's eyes almost bulged out of their sockets.

 

“Yeah, didn't you know? Fuck, you didn't! Don't tell anyone I told you please.” Ryuichi begged worriedly. It never failed to happen. He could never keep a secret for long.

 

“What the hell! How do you know?” Tatsuha asked incredulously. Although it actually made a lot of sense. He had noticed the two act a little too familiar with each other the night before at the studio.

 

“Su-chan told us, but we saw them kiss and stuff,” To this Tatsuha had to hold on to the wall. It all sounded so unbelievable. Tohma was not one to display affection in public in any form. Tatsuha had certainly never seen it. Even when the monk was little and the producer had played with him. His brother-in-law was very careful not to show too much attachment.

 

“You're not gonna tell are you?” Ryu asked gravely.

 

“Who am I going to tell… my sister? Are you crazy!?” The monk shook his head. Who would have ever imagined… his brother with Shuichi, because now, Tatsuha was sure that Eiri and Bad Luck's singer had something going. And now Tohma and Hiro… damn! Was there anyone straight at NG?

 

“Why would you tell your sister?” Ryu asked puzzled.

 

“Mika is my sister… you know, Seguchi Mika.”

 

“Oh, I knew I've seen you before!” Ryu smiled, “You do look like her, but you look just like Yuki-sama.”

 

“Yuki-sama?” Tatsuha arched a brow. Of all people to call his brother such undeserving title; Sakuma Ryuichi was the most unlikely of them all. “Yes, Eiri is my brother as well.” Ryuichi's eyes brightened.

 

“I love your brother, he's awesome! I'm addicted to Kenshin.” Ryuichi said with utmost seriousness. Tatsuha felt like slapping the tall Mr. no personality Uesugi. What did his bastard brother had that caused people to drool like idiots when they spoke of him? “Tohma is so lucky,” The singer continued, the elevator finally arrived and they stepped in.

 

“Why is Tohma lucky? `Cause he hooked up with Hiro the guitar player?” Tatsuha asked sarcastically.

 

“Who cares about Hiro! Tohma-kun hooked up with Yuki-sama before that.” Ryu's eyes shined at the thought, and Tatsuha's eyes did pop out of their sockets this time.

 

“What the hell are you talking about?” Tatsuha grabbed Ryu by the arms a little too roughly. He was afraid of the answer, but at the same time, wanted to hear it more than anything.

 

“I'll tell you since I already screwed up and opened my big mouth, but you have to swear secrecy.” Ryuichi pointed one stern finger at the teen's chest.

 

“Of course! Who do you take me for?” The monk stated solemnly, his thoughts spinning `round and `round.

 

“Tohma and Yuki-sama were lovers for a while, but then they broke up. And now Tohma-kun is with Hiro-kun.” Tatsuha heard the words, but somehow they didn't add up in his brain… was it possible? Of course it was! Eiri himself had told him that he fucked men. And who better than their brother-in-law? Eiri was socially impaired, so he wouldn't actually go out to meet people, let alone get acquainted enough to establish any sort of sexual relationship. The teen wondered where Shuichi fit in the whole scenario, and how his brother had come to like him. If in fact he was in the scenario at all. Tatsuha was beginning to doubt Shuichi and Eiri were involved. It was just too `convenient' too out of a cheap manga.

 

“Do you know if my brother is seeing anyone now a days?” Tatsuha asked as if he didn't really care.

 

“No… Mikka Costa-chan I guess.” Ryu replied loosing interest in the subject. “Do you think Shu likes me?”

 

“I don't know… didn't you love my brother?” Tatsuha decided to leave it alone for now. if he wanted to get answers, he would have to go directly to the source.

 

“Yeah… but not that way. I want Shuichi.” The singer declared, “But I don't think he wants me.”

 

“How do you know?” Why wouldn't he want you?” Tatsuha asked, each word cutting his throat.

 

“I don't know, I get that vibe.”

 

“You'll get him. I'm sure of it.” The young monk encouraged his love putting a hand on his shoulder and smiling confidently. He had gained a lot more than he had bargained for. He definitely had to go to NG and straighten a few things out.

 

They finally got into a cab and headed to the building in question. They rode in silence. He, digesting all that he'd just found out, and Ryuichi humming Shining Collection in his godly voice.

 

XXX

 

Yuki sat at the head of his conference table listening to Onizuka read the latest numbers. Sales had gone down 10% due to the fillers they've been publishing. Fan mail was piled in the mail room demanding an explanation to the rushed work. It was as if he had stepped out of a long illness to come back and find everything crumbling right before his eyes. The company was barely held together, making him realize for the first time, how incompetent everyone around him was. And how much rode on his back. Luckily he had woken up from his nightmare before it was too late.

 

Yuki let his hazel eyes fall on the figure of his incompetent manager, and watched the man's lost expression without uttering a word. The man was waiting for him to say something, - they all were. - Yuki got to his feet, startling them all. He walked to the chart and stared blankly at the numbers. He wished he could care, he wished he could get the will to care, but he could not. Suddenly he realized that what had constituted his whole life before, didn't mean much now.

 

“Angel Sanctuary should shut the public's mouths; we can say I was working on that in full, to justify the fillers. I'm planning to end Kenshin soon; In fact I'll get to that immediately. In the meantime, I want Makoto to take over Weiss, that'll give me more time to worry about the other projects.” The mangaka looked around the room for any sign of disagreement. He saw none; he walked to the door, opened it, and turned to the men and women assembled in the room. “I'll be in my office, whoever bothers me, will find himself out of a job.” And with that said, he walked to his office and locked himself in it, sitting on the floor against the door, smoking one cigarette after the other, for what turned out to be a whole hour. Thinking on any random thing that came to mind other than the problems he had to face. Mika, Mikka, Tohma, the company… and lastly Shuichi; were eating his brain slowly, demanding attention, but he refused to give it to them. He used to think- as a child- that if he avoided something long enough, it would just go away. He knew now that was not so, but he just didn't want to deal with it; was afraid to deal with it.

 

“Damn, I haven't been in this place in a while,” Yuki muttered lowly. Getting up and lighting yet another cigarette. He made it to his desk, but not before stopping in mid stride to stare at a copy of Bad Luck's full Access DVD lying on the coffee table- exacly where he left it the last time he'd been in. He grabbed it, and stared at the young face he was trying with all his might to forget.

 

“You fucking pop up everywhere I go!” He spoke to it with a small ironic smile. “If I didn't know better I'd say we're meant to be.” He sighed and threw it in the trash can forcefully. Taking a long drag from his cigarette, he threw himself on the couch and stared at the ceiling. At that moment his phone rang, he took it out of his jacket and stared at it deciding whether to answer it or not.

 

“Eiri here.”

 

“Eiri! Where were you? I been calling and calling all morning.” Tohma's worried voice demanded.

 

“I had a little accident with my phone so I don't have it anymore.” Yuki replied boringly.

 

“I see, did you speak to Mika?”

 

“No, why would I?” Yuki arched a brow. Is not like he was planning to apologize to her. If anything, he thought that she should to him, for ever lying about being pregnant.

 

“Is over.” Tohma muttered lowly. Eiri's shocked expression would have made the producer laugh had he's seen it, “Don't you have anything to say/” Tohma asked after a moment.

 

Yeah, I do!” Yuki snapped “You wouldn't break up with her for me, but you did it for a long haired punk? Had I known you were into that, I would have let my hair reach the floor!”

 

Tohma laughed wholeheartedly. “Do you ever take anything seriously?” He had been a bit worried about his ex lover's reaction.

 

“I take my manga seriously. How did she take it?” Yuki asked.

 

“She is devastated, but I'm confident that she'll get over it… It had to be done, you understand.” Tohma whispered.

 

“I guess.”

 

“How are things going with you?” Tohma had had little time to worry about Yuki and Shuichi's relationship, with all that's been happening to him.

 

“Fine, how would things be?”

 

“I mean with Shuichi.”

 

“Oh that, that was a one time fuck, nothing to fuss over.” Yuki replied dismissively.

 

“You can't lie to me Yuki-sama.”

 

“Then don't make me do it.”

 

“I want to see you happy.”

 

“I am happy, happier than ever,” Yuki lied, “Don't worry about me, go run your hands through that silky long hair or something.” Yuki grouched puffing his cigarette.

 

“You're the worst!” Tohma laughed.

 

“No, you're the worst, trading me for some punk.”

 

“Hey, what about you?” Tohma teased.

 

“Anyhow, I'll see you later; I'll be by your office. I guess we have to talk or something.” Yuki let his eyes stray to the garbage bin.

 

“Don't sound so concerned Eiri, you'll get an ulcer.” The producer let out sarcastically.

 

`Yeah well, you know me; I'm all about other's feeling before my own.” The mangaka replied as sarcastically scratching his ear.

 

“I'll be busy all morning. Let's do lunch, come at about one or so.” Tohma said switching to business mode.

 

“Oi, I'm not going to get my ass kicked by a jealous long haired punk am I?” The blonde mangaka leaned over and picked up the DVD from the trash. Tohma laughed again.

 

“I'll tell him about our date. I'm sure your pretty ass will be safe.”

 

“Alright, see you then.” Yuki hanged up, and stared at the DVD.

 

“… You'll be the end of me little boy.” He sighed and set the disc in the player, sat back, and started the DVD to play the songs he knew by heart.

 

XXX

 

“Look who decided to show up!” Noriko snapped as soon as Ryuichi stepped into the studio. The singer gave her a goofy smile and a wink.

 

“That doesn't work on me mister! Do you know how long we've been waiting? Even K didn't know where you were” Tatsuha walked in at that moment, and everyone in the studio turned their sights to him.

 

“Don't yell at me Noriko-chan, I have a headache.” Ryu pouted playing with his fingers.

 

“A headache? A hangover you mean!” The woman carried on as if she was yelling at her late for curfew child. “Suru-kun told us all about it!” Tatsuha turned viciously to the teen, who was glaring daggers at him as well.

 

“Where's Shu?” Ryuichi asked disregarding Noriko's tantrum, and walking further into the studio.

 

“He's another irresponsible one!” The keyboardist raved to herself since no one was paying her any mind, “I tell you, men get a little famous and lose all sense of duty and respect for others!”

 

“Noriko-chan, I'm really hurting, why don't you be quiet now.” Ryu protested, Noriko glared in his direction, but quieted nonetheless.

 

Tatsuha made his way to Suguru and stood next to the teen. “You know Su-chan, to be someone who has no business whatsoever with anyone here, you sure keep tabs on everyone. Why don't you get a life already and leave the rest of us alone?” The monk said casually playing a couple of notes in Suguru's keyboard.

 

“Hmph, like I care. They asked so I told them. I have no reason to cover for you.” He stepped forward, forcing Tatsuha to move aside.

 

“I thought you and I were friends.” Tatsuha leaned over and whispered in Suguru's ear. The teen gulped, and then put on an angry face.

 

“You wish!” The teen snapped grouchily. Tatsuha smirked and blew warm air into Suguru's ear; his smirk grew wider as he watched the shorter boy tremble.

 

“Look, you got goose bumps all over!” Tatsuha teased innocently.

 

“Get away form me you freak!” Suguru turned and pushed the taller teen away from him.

 

“And you stop butting into my business!” Tatsuha countered angrily.

 

“Yeah… what business you whore!” Suguru returned ever angrier.

 

“I bet it kills you to know what happened last night, so you can go and tell everyone who'd pay you any mind… how old are you Su-chan? Are you such a looser without life that has to be content with talking about the life of others?” Tatsuha's face took a scary expression to it

 

“Shut up! What the hell do I care what you do? You think you're so hot and important that anyone would give a shit? My cat's life is more interesting than yours!” Suguru's anger and frustration was reaching its limits. The usually mild and cool headed teen always seemed to lose himself when it came to Uesugi Tatsuha.

 

“Oh yeah? Did your cat have hot sex with Sakuma Ryuichi?” Tatsuha got so close to Suguru's face as he husked the mocking words. Suguru's eyes betrayed his hurt. He had assumed that they wound up at a hotel somewhere, and that Sakuma-san had passed out. Maybe that Tatsuha had taken a peek at the drunk singer's body or something like that, but he had not imagined-or want to- think that they had actually slept together.

 

Tatsuha smirked at the stark silent kid. He actually enjoyed teasing him, the monk knew how Suguru felt about him, had known for the longest time. Of course the grumpy kid would never have chance, but Tatsuha wasn't usually this cruel. It was just that the kid's meddling in his family's business was really starting to piss him off.

 

“It was…” Tatsuha closed his eyes and put on a face of pure bliss, then opened them slowly and looked right into Suguru's orbs. “The best night of my life.”

 

“Fuck you! I don't care what the fuck you do. You and your whole family are whores!” Suguru modulated, he sounded as if he was going to cry. Tatsuha felt bad, but it was too late to take it back.

 

“Yeah? And what about your Tohma-kun, cheating on my sister with Hiro.”

 

“I have nothing to do with that.” Suguru said firmly.

 

“Are you two going to kiss or what?” Noriko yelled from the other side of the room. Both teenagers turn to the woman and saw that everyone was watching them. Ryuichi was doing rooting signs to Tatsuha, and Suguru rolled his eyes and walked away from the monk fast. At that moment Shuichi walked in looking as if struck by lightning

 

“Shuuuuuu-kun!” Ryuichi exclaimed and threw himself on the singer. Shuichi opened his arms instinctively to the older man, and allowed himself to be hugged by the hyper singer.

 

“Oh, your majesty, glad you could join us,” Noriko bowed mocking respect.

 

“Where's Kuma-chan?” Ryuichi asked once again ignoring the raving woman.

 

“I got him in my bag.” Shuichi took his backpack off, and took the stuffed animal out. Ryuichi snatched from his hands and smelt it.

 

“Ooh… it smells like you.” Ryuichi sang happily.

 

“Is that a good thing?” Shu asked smiling. His bright lavender eyes, shined for the first time in days.

 

“A very good thing.” Ryuichi husked in his `other' tone.

 

“Are you two going to kiss too?” Noriko threw her hands up in the air frustrated, and jealous. “Where the hell is Tohma and Hiro?” She snapped rolling her eyes.

 

XXX

 

Tohma pressed the speaker button off. Hiro was at the verge of laughing. He hadn't imagined the mangaka had a sense of humor, let alone be so cool about him and Tohma.

 

“Once you get to know him. You'll love him as much as I do… well, I mean, I hope not `as much' as I did.” Tohma smiled coming to straddle Hiro.

 

“Hey, if he wants to run his fingers though my silky long hair… who am I to say no?” Tohma kissed him roughly, and Hiro wasted no time getting his hands down the producer's pants. “Ah, someone wants to play,” The guitar player husked stroking Tohma's stiff sex hard and fast. Tohma threw his head back, and let out a deep moan.

 

The doors flew open and a furious Noriko barged in with Ryuichi, Shuichi, Suguru and Tatsuha behind her. They all stopped in their tracks as they took in the scene. Hiro took his hand away faster than fast and covered Tohma with a throw pillow. The producer fixed himself as dignifiedly as he could. And looked the other way embarrassed avoiding eye contact with the others.

 

“Oh this is just rich! I'm growing roots down there and here you two are just about to fuck!”

 

“Noriko!” Tohma snapped, immediately shutting her, “Let this be the last time you ever do something like this.” He set his eyes on Tatsuha. “What are you doing here?” Tohma asked.

 

“I came to drop Ryuichi-kun off.” Tohma turned to Ryuichi and shook his head, not even wanting to ask any further.

 

“Well, Ryuichi is here so you can leave now.”

 

“I don't want to.” Tatsuha contested defiantly.

 

“If you are not going to listen to me, then I will have to send you back to Kyoto.” Tohma said calmly.

 

“You're so unfair! What is it to you if I stay?” The teen whined.

 

“I will not say it again.” Tatsuha's eyes turned ice on the producer.

 

“Fine,” The monk snapped angrily and left, but not before stopping next to Shuichi and whispering something.

 

“You didn't have to be so hard on him.” Hiro said as soon as the teen was gone.

 

“Yes I did.” Tohma replied gently, and then turned to the others, “Let's go.” He snapped and walked out of the office with everyone in tow.

 

XXX

 

“You and I have to talk.” Tatsuha whispered as he headed out of Seguchi's office. Shuichi didn't want to be here today. The day was already proving to be a disaster waiting to happen. He followed the others in silence, wondering what Tatsuha could possibly have to talk to him about. His tone didn't sound too candid. Shuichi also wondered why Seguchi-san had been so mad as he left the apartment the night before.

 

“Ne Shu… are we hanging out tonight? Remember you promised me.” Kumagoro was laid on his shoulder, and moved from side to side as if he were the one who had spoken.

 

That was another thing Shuichi wanted to avoid. For some reason, Sakuma Ryuichi was acting weirder than usual, and not in a pleasant way. In fact it was giving him the creeps.

 

“Yeah… sure.” Shuichi replied unsure.

 

“You don't look too happy. Are you mad because I slept with your friend?” Kumagoro was gone and in its place, Ryuichi came close to him with a worried expression.

 

“You slept with Tatsuha?” Shu whispered disbelievingly. Well that answered the “subject” of Tatsuha's talk. Still, Shuichi didn't understand what that had to do with him.

 

“If it makes you feel any better, I was super drunk and I don't remember a thing about it.” Ryu pouted playing the victim.

 

“He took advantage of you!” Shu exclaimed again.

 

“That's right, he did!” Ryuichi's eyes glint, seeing his chance.

 

“I'm so sorry,” Shuichi blurted. Feeling sorry for having introduced the precocious teen to his idol.

 

“You have to make it up!” Ryuichi held Shu tight, “You have to go out to lunch with me, and then we'll go to the arcade and karaoke!”

 

“Sure.” Shuichi nodded obligated, but wishing he could get out of it. He had a feeling those were not Ryuichi's only plans.

 

“You promise?”

 

“I promise,” Shuichi agreed not wanting to think in what he was getting himself into.

 

XXX

 

“Oi Tohma, are you going to ignore me all day?” Noriko sat next to the producer. After the little incident, the rest of the morning had been very productive.

 

The bands were now taking a short break. The song was almost done, which meant the album would be out on time.

 

The members of Bad Luck had actually whished for a delay, but no such luck. Coming out with a debut album on the same day as Nittle Grasper, was suicidal. True they were doing great but still, Grasper was Grasper. And this was the first time in five years the powerful band came together to record new songs… intimidating to say the least.

 

“I'm not ignoring you; I just don't have anything to talk to you about.” Tohma replied coldly.

 

“That's cold Tohma-kun. I already said sorry about a hundred times. Hiro's not even annoyed, why do you have to make such a fuss?” Noriko blew a strand of hair form his face.

 

“Yeah well, it wasn't his dick you saw.” Tohma replied re-arranging his hair. Noriko arched her brows, shocked to hear him say that. Tohma had sounded just now… as he once did so long ago. She smiled warmly. Glad to see her old friend returning to his old self. She didn't understand his relationship with the young guitarist, but she could see how much it was changing Tohma. And for that, she was grateful.

 

“Oh! that's what you're so worried about?” Noriko laughed, “It's so small I didn't even see it.” Tohma turned to her about to say something, as a can of iced coffee was put in front of his face. He looked up to see Hiro smirking down at Noriko.

 

“That small dick, among other things turned me gay.” Hiro winked at her, and she began laughing like a child.

 

“Oi! What's so funny?” Ryuichi yelled from the other side of the room.

 

“Oh, nothing!” Noriko yelled back waiving her hand, “Just keep playing with Kuma-chan,” Ryu pouted- but didn't push it- and did what he was told;

 

“Kuma-kuma super punch!” He yelled and threw Kumagoro on Shuichi, who shielded himself from the attacking bunny.

 

“We should get back to work!” Suguru called from his keyboard. He was still wired and upset about the morning events. He'd get Tatsuha, oh he'd get him alright. He didn't know how yet, but he would not let him make a fool out of him… again.

 

Usagi came in and told Tohma something, the producer got to his feet and walked to the door.

 

“Someone is here to see me. Let's break for lunch. We'll meet back here,” He looked at his watch, “At three,” Then he went out.

 

“What, you're not going?” Noriko asked Hiro after Tohma left. He hadn't even gotten up from where he had been sitting.

 

“Nope, family matters,” the guitarist said matter of fact, “Although you might want to go check it out Shuichi.” Shu looked at him confused, and then realized what he must mean. “Go man, go!” Hiro rooted, and Shu got to his feet and made his way to the door, but a hand grabbed his sleeve before he could even take a step.

 

“You promised,” Ryuichi's eyes were somewhat scary. Shuichi smiled at him, thankful for the reminder of the promise he made to himself the night before. He begrudged himself at how easily he gave into his petty feelings.

 

“I know Ryu-kun, I'm sorry. Let's go.” Ryuichi jumped to his feet and gave Shuichi a quick hug, then pushed him to the exit.

 

“Make sure you come back on time!” Noriko yelled after them.

 

“So, where are we going to munch?” Hiro asked Noriko.

 

“Me? I'm going to eat with my honey… have fun you two!” She waived and left as well.

 

“Well, I guess it's just you and me.” Hiro turned to Suguru, he had noticed the teen to be moodier than usual, but bad company was better than no company.

 

“I'm not hungry. I'll stay here and grab something from the cafeteria.” Suguru grouched.

 

“Hell no, you're not! I'm not risking you getting food poisoning right before our album release! C'mon man, let's go, my treat.” Suguru pursed his lip, but moved to follow. “What you feel like?” Hiro continued.

 

“Killing Tatsuha!” Suguru let out with a malevolent glint to his eyes.

 

“Sorry, I don't know any place that has that in the menu, how about Chinese?”

 

“Chinese is fine,” Suguru responded embarrassed to have let his guard down.

 

“Then Chinese it is!” Hiro smiled, “So, this Tatsuha, is that the kid who's been causing trouble everywhere he goes?”

 

“The one and only,” Suguru agreed.

 

“And you like him?”

 

“Since we were little” The teen finally admit it to another soul.

 

“Well, that's not very long.” Suguru snapped his green eyes to the long haired guitarist, not finding his joke funny in the least. Hiro broke into a mischievous smile, which the teen couldn't resist.

 

“Yeah, well, he's a whore though.” Suguru smiled back.

 

“So I gather.”

 

“But he's so cool though,” Suguru's eyes shined with admiration as he described the love of his life. “He's so tall and quick witted, and he can do all kinds of tricks with his bike…”

 

“Is this going to be a lovey dovey mush talk?” Hiro asked, feigning a yawn

 

“Hey! You invited me, so now you take it!”

 

“Alright, alright, so he's so dreamy, he's got sparkles shinning all around him… what else?” And the two left as well.

 

XXX

 

“Did you wait long?” Tohma rushed to the lobby to meet Yuki.

 

“Too long!” The blonde man grouched putting out a cigarette.

 

“Sorry, I was busy at the studio.”

 

“So I heard, are you happy?”

 

“Very! I almost forgot what it felt like. Although I'm not recording today, I'm just mixing; you know we're doing a collaboration with Bad Luck.” Tohma smiled mischievously.

 

“Hmph… why should I care?” Yuki went on ahead. “We'll take my car.” He said over his shoulder changing the subject. Tohma couldn't help to smile and shake his head.

 

C'mon Shu!” Ryuichi's voice filled the lobby as the thirty some year old man pulled the younger singer, “You're too slow! I'm hungry.” Shuichi allowed himself to be pulled by the hyper active singer as if he were his Kumagoro plush. Shu wore a big smile on his face, but as soon as he set eyes on the tall, blonde mangaka, he stopped dead on his tracks.

 

The two would- be lovers stood staring at one another. Ryuichi shifted his eyes from one to the other, and Tohma just stood back, allowing the two to scrutinize each other.

 

“C'mon Shu-kun” Ryuichi encouraged by throwing his arms around the younger singer's neck, and clearly giving Yuki a challenging look.

 

“Yeah… right.” Shuichi looked the other way nonchalantly and headed out the building with Ryu.

 

“Hmph, the kid does get around.” Yuki said dismissively and pulled a cigarette out of his pocket.

 

“I don't think he has, but you know, he does have an undeniable charm. To have melted the ice around your heart and to have held Ryuichi's five minute attention span this long... you have to give him some credit.” Tohma smirked at his ex's crystal clear jealousy.

 

“To melt what ice?” Yuki spat disgusted, “The kid's not even a good fuck.” The taller man stormed away, and Tohma just followed shaking his head.

 

“Yuki Eiri!” A female voice yelled. Both men turned and saw Noriko running towards them. “Oh my god! I finally get to meet you. I am your biggest fan!” The woman gushed turning all shades of red, “I was at your engagement party, but I wasn't lucky enough to be introduced.” She directed a stern glance at Tohma. Yuki just stared at her with an expression between puzzlement and annoyance.

 

“This is Ukai Noriko,” Tohma said flatly, “The third member of Grasper… I didn't introduce you before?”

 

“No!” She pointed another accusing glare, and then she turned back to Yuki, all smiles “I know this is a bad time, but would you mind giving me your autograph? I've read all your books and I even went to a couple of your book signing events, but I've never been able to get to you before you leave.” Yuki turned to look at Tohma and the blonde producer just shrugged.

 

“Is she for real?” The mangaka asked annoyingly, then rolled his eyes and took a pen from his jacket.

 

 

“…So anyways, there was this one time my mom took me to their temple, and he got me in so much trouble… he said that if I ate a sacred offering from the shrine I'd have good luck forever…” Another set of voices disrupted the lobby. Yuki perked his eyes as he saw Hiro coming their way with Suguru. The long haired man stopped a few paces away, and looked at the taller man respectfully. Yuki smirked, and forgetting all about the obnoxious woman, made his way to him.

 

“So… Hiro-kun I presume. We finally meet.” Hiro bowed low and then met the deep hazel eyes.

 

“It is an honor to meet you Yuki-san, and allow me to apologize if I inconvenienced you in any way.” The youngster whispered respectfully bowing once again.

 

“What are you apologizing to me for? I think there's another person who you should be bowing to,” Yuki's smirk widen, “Anyhow, silky haired Hiro-kun, let me give you two good pieces of advice. First, do not cut your hair, and second, take care of my Tohma if you don't want my foot up your ass.”

 

“Eiri!” Tohma exclaimed embarrassed.

 

“Will do,” Hiro smirked as well, “Let me say something to you in exchange for the good advice,” Yuki arched a brow, “He might be stupid and obnoxious, but he's got a big and honest heart.” The two men exchanged looks for a moment.

 

“Hmph.” Yuki blurted and walked away. Tohma looked about to make sure there were no prying eyes, and gave Hiro a quick peck on the lips before following his ex lover out the building.

 

“What about my autograph!?” Noriko cried, but the two men were already out of sight “It's all your fault!” She turned to Hiro viciously, “You have to get Tohma to get a sig for me.” Hiro raised his hands to shield his face from her.

 

“I can't if I'm dead!” Hiro joked.

 

“Let's go already,” Suguru urged. Not very interested in these developments. He was eager to continued his story, now that he had found someone who would listen, he was not about to give him up.

 

XXX

 

“Beautiful isn't he?” Tohma gushed once they were in the car.

 

“Not as beautiful as me, but I guess he's alright.” Tohma threw his head back in laughter, “I haven't seen you like this in years.” Yuki let out seriously.

 

I'm sorry if I seem too overjoyed after what I did to your sister, but Hiro makes me whole.” Tohma replied seriously as well.

 

“Don't need to explain anything to me… just be careful,” Yuki warned concerned.

 

“Thank you, I will…” Tohma replied smiling warmly.

 

“Sorry I couldn't make you whole.” Yuki whispered after a while.

 

“You did… in the beginning, but then you closed yourself like an oyster and I couldn't get in. Eiri, is time for that shell to open and the pearl inside to see the light.”

 

“What are you talking about? I'm open like a book.” Yuki pulled another cigarette. Tohma took it, and broke it.

 

“Those will kill you.”

 

“I have to die of something.” Yuki winked and pulled another one, “My car, my rules,” he husked, lit it, took a drag from it, and let the smoke hit Tohma on the face, then he winked again.

 

 

“Get over yourself and ask Shuichi what's killing you to know.” Tohma scorned.

 

“I didn't come here to talk about me,” The mangaka snapped annoyed.

 

“You have to deal with it eventually.”

 

“No I don't, and if you keep butting in, I'm dumping your ass in the middle of the road.”

 

“Fine, but this conversation is not over.” Tohma shrugged.

 

“Hmph… whatever.”

 

XXX

 

A/N: Whew! Finally. I bet you all thought I died and my carcass was eaten by hyenas… no such luck. I'm still alive and kicking and have plenty more in store for you all. Now what the hell is up Ryuichi's sleeve… I don't think he even knows. And that Tatsuha, so cruel. Poor Suguru I fell like comforting him. Tatsuha is definitely not good enough for him. And Shuichi and Yuki, are those two ever see the light or what?

 

Next Stop: Well so far the next Chapter is called Blade, but that might be subject to change. Of Course we'll have `the talks' Tatsuha and Shu and Yuki and Tohma… and then some (maybe even a lemon hehe). I'll put it out a lot sooner than I did his one. Again sorry for the delay. Enjoy.