Gravitation Fan Fiction ❯ Break Through ❯ No! Virtual: Part I READ FIRST ( Chapter 26 )

[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]

Disclaimer: I do not own Gravitation or any manga/anime mentioned within this story.

Ok, before you begin reading this chapter, I have to warn you… IT IS LONG! Yes, very long, I contemplated cutting it into parts, but I know you guys will yell at me if I did. I recommend that you have ample time to read this in its entirety; because once you start it WILL be hard to stop. Now having said that… ENJOY^^

For mature readers only!

Chapter Twenty-four: No! Virtual.

“Well gentleman,” Tohma stood at the head of the table seizing up everyone sitting around him. The week had gone stressfully slow to put it lightly, Bad Luck was in everyone's mouth as the first band who collaborated with Nittle Grasper, and being the new rising stars who had come to take over as their long reign. “Shining Collection” was playing twenty-four- seven, and was apparently the best thing to hit the airways ever since Sleepless Beauty; marking Bad Luck as the first to partake on the roller coaster Grasper rode on.

The band went from, photo shoots, to interviews, to signing sessions. It never seemed to end; it was as if everyone wanted a piece of them all at once. And as much as Shuichi had wanted this, it was not as fun as he had expected it. Especially since they were barely getting any sleep, and were surviving on protein shakes and bars, or eating on the run. On top of that, they had no privacy at all; even when they went to the bathroom, people came following them with questions… not a very glamorous life.

Seguchi had scheduled for this meeting to fall on the day before the Oricon magazine was to be released. And Shuichi couldn't wait any longer. He wanted, no… needed! to know how they did on the sales charts on that crucial first week of Gravity being out. Bad Luck's front man knew they were hot and all, but he wanted to see how that hotness held up against Mikka Costa, and most importantly Nittle Grasper.

“I have right here, tomorrow's release of Oricon,” Seguchi held the magazine. Shuichi stared at it scared. How ironic that such a small thing could mean so much, he was almost at the point of grabbing his hair and pull it out, and he was finding it very hard to breathe as the moments passed. It felt as if his whole life depended on this very moment.

Within the pages of that magazine, were the official charts and sales rankings for the week, and as far as every record label was concerned it was all that mattered.

“How do you think you did?” Seguchi asked looking straight at him. The producer's face revealed nothing; his ever-nonchalant face was driving the young singer mad. Shuichi looked at the rest assembled. Ryuichi was busy yapping with Noriko, paying little to no attention to their band mate and leader, Suguru was looking down at his tea, with pretty much the same expression as he. Expecting the hot liquid to give him the answer to the burning question. Both K and Sakano sat staring at their boss, one with unmasked devotion, and the other with unmasked boredom. Lastly, Shuichi turned to his best friend, who sat directly across from him, smiling.

Upon seeing Hiro's relaxed demeanor, Shu felt as if a huge weight had been lifted off his shoulders; the bastard knew... he had to.

“Well… I guess,” Shuichi guessed uncertainly.

“I don't know about that,” Seguchi replied calmly, “Let me read the top ten spots, then you tell me how well you think you did.” He opened the magazine slowly, Shuichi began sweating, and the room began to shrink around him. The mogul smiled, a smile that didn't tell him anything other than the man was enjoying teasing him. Shu looked at Hiro again, but his friend was now looking up at his powerful lover.

“#10, Musiq, Orange Range. I like their style… very American” Seguchi began slowly,

“#9 Tourbillion, Luna Sea, Wow, this is a surprise;” He continued as if this were the first time he read the damn thing.

“#8, Dix Infernal, Moi dix Mois. Oh my! Are they still around?” Seguchi exclaimed feigning shock.

“#7, San, Kagrra,”

“#6, Awake, L'Arc~en~Ciel; A lot of rock I'm seeing here, must be a trend. Or maybe pop idols are a thing of the past.” The producer sighed.

“#5, Legion, Mikka Costa. Wow, I thought she'd at least be third. Shows me how much I know about this business.” Tohma laughed.

“C'mon Tohma get on with it!” Noriko snapped annoyingly, taking Shuichi's thoughts right out of his mind.

“Fine, fine, you guys are so uptight!” Seguchi joked.

“Look who's talking, you only found humor since a certain someone is been getting into your pants.” The woman smiled sweetly. Sakano snapped his head to her shocked, and K could not help a little chuckle.

“And what a fool I was for not finding it sooner.” Tohma smiled back replying just as sweetly.

“#4, Diabolos, Gackt; he's one of my personal favorites,” He continued,

“#3, Withering to Death, Dir en Grey;”

“ #2…” He paused and looked straight at Noriko and Ryuichi. Shu's heart stopped. If Nittle Grasper was second, there was no way they could be number one, which meant that they were not even on the top ten. Shuichi was disappointed beyond words, but fuck! How could they compete with Diru, Gackt and Laraku? Shuichi was sure Seguchi wasn't expecting them to be on the top ten right away. After all, this was their first album. But he had wanted to be on top with all his might, at least be higher than that bitch. That, and he was also was worried about losing NG and Seguchi's sponsorship.

“#2, Gravity, Bad Luck,” The words didn't register for a second, and then all his emotions came rushing in all at once. Suguru let a loud sigh escape his lips, and Hiro smiled widely… the bastard had known all along.

“And #1 Shinning Hits, Nittle Grasper.” Tohma ended dismissively, and threw the magazine on the desk. Shu was the first to grab it. He read the name of his band over and over. This was better than a dream, much better.

“I'm very proud, I knew you would do well, but I must say that I am very impressed.” Their blonde producer smiled. “To think that you came in higher than Mikka, an experienced and very successful part of our record label is outstanding to say the least.” Sakano applauded and nodded profusely.

“Wow Shu-kun, you guys are the best!” Ryuichi rooted and Noriko applauded silently as well, giving the young singer a wink.

“I'm just happy that you beat that bitch Mikka, I would pay to see her face when she sees this,” Noriko let out mischievously.

“So we're celebrating tonight right?!” Ryuichi stood pretending that Kumagoro had spoken the words.

“You suck as a ventriloquist Ryuichi,” Noriko laughed.

“We're celebrating tomorrow,” Tohma interrupted nonchalantly.

“What! Why?” Ryu pouted. Shuichi could care less about this whole exchange; he just sat staring at the chart with an idiotic expression on his face.

“Because tomorrow it will be official, and I have things to do today.” Tohma replied.

“Yeah… with Hiro-kun?” Ryu asked putting Kumagoro on Tohma's face. The mogul's cheeks turned red for a second, but he said nothing.

“So, tomorrow we paint the town red!” Suguru jumped off his chair. Everyone was actually amazed to see him so exited.

“Yay!” Ryuichi yelled after him, getting up as well.

“We still have to talk about the week's schedules. We have a lot to do, there are TV appearances, radio interviews, and more photo shoots… so settle down.” Tohma admonished sternly. They all booed and sat back down. Usagi came in with more tea, and the long, and tedious meeting continued.

XXX

“ I can't believe it! We're number two in the whole nation!” Suguru exclaimed still in shock.

“I know! If Grasper hadn't released with us, we would have been number one!” Shuichi added just as exited and shocked.

“We beat Mikka Costa!” Both young members yelled in unison. Hiro just looked at them and shook his head jealously at their glee. Tohma had spoiled the whole thing for him, as soon as his beautiful love got the magazine from the presses, he called to give him the news—well, he called after the flowers and the season tickets for baseball—Tohma had been more exited than he himself. Hiro smiled as he remembered that night's long passionate lovemaking. And got the shivers as he recalled all the dirty talk Tohma had whispered into his ear… damn, his life was too good!

“I know! I would pay to see her poker face when she finds out. I would record it and watch it over and over again just to cheer myself up and laugh at her ass!” Shuichi snickered.

“Hey, you shouldn't make fun of your fellow record label mate.” Sakano-san observed as he made his way into their rehearsal studio, “Seguchi-sama wants you to get on writing new material ASAP.”

“What! We just released an album!” Shuichi whined.

“That's what you been saying in every interview we give, so…might as well ne?” Hiro woke up from his daydream before he got a hard on and went to the top floor to harass his hard working honey.

“Let me ask you this Shuichi-kun. How long did it take you to write the material for Gravity?” Sakano asked seriously.

“Kyaa! it was so long, I even lost track!” Hiro joked.

“Me too,” Suguru added under his breath.

“Shut up! I'm sure you can get us all the time we need Hiroshi-sama.” Shu looked at his friend pointedly.

“Ooh, I'll do that, only if I can get free manga for life.” Hiro replied in the same tone.

“Manga?” Suguru asked confused, then began laughing hysterically when he finally got the joke.

“Here we go again…” Sakano sighed, bracing himself for another long day.

“Shut up!” Shuichi turned to Suguru and lashed, only to make the laugh harder. “I'll get to it Sakano-san” The singer turned to his manager, trying to ignore the other two.

“Good,” Sakano acknowledged, reading a paper he was holding. “We have another gig at First Stage… with Nittle Grasper,” He added with a little emphasis, “we'll play Shinning Collection with them.”

“Yes!” Shuichi jumped on Suguru, the teen tried to shake him off, but found it impossible—after all, Shuichi learned that move from the best.

“When?” Hiro asked, Tohma had not mentioned anything about it.

“Friday after next, the highest rating night of the week.” Sakano announced the well known fact, “Since we already have another show this coming Friday. They want to make sure they get the first Bad Luck/ Nittle Grasper stage performance.”

“Woo hoo!” Shuichi rooted giving Suguru a nuggie.

“Who will be the panel guest that night?” Suguru asked, barely able to make himself heard, since Shuichi was still yelling on his back.

“I have no idea, but don't worry, it will not be Costa-san.” The manager assured them.

“I'm sure Shuichi wouldn't mind that though.” Hiro remarked.

“Of course not! I'll rub my second place on the charts plaque on her face.” The singer laughed.

“You're so immature.” Suguru punched him on the arm and reassumed his attempts to shake him off.

“Cut it out man!” Shuichi jumped off the younger teen rubbing his side, “I gotta figure out what I'm going to wear.”

“Oh my god, its not for another two weeks! Just wear anything… no wait, wear a ruffled white shirt, leather pants, a Kumagoro doll and you can be Sakuma Ryuichi's twin.” Suguru teased.

All humor left Shuichi; he didn't find it funny at all. In fact, it was not the first time he'd been compared to the hyper idol. Magazines all over remarked on this very `obvious' fact. The way he dressed, moved, sang. Many claimed that he was nothing but a copy of the Grasper god. He couldn't help it though; he'd admired Ryuichi since he was a child, and had wanted to be just like him. But that wouldn't cut it anymore; he needed to find his own style and personality if he wanted to be taken seriously.

“Hey, it was only a joke.” Suguru let out realizing his tactlessness; “I didn't mean anything by it.”

“No man, it's fine… you didn't lie.”

“Shuichi…” Hiro let out.

“I'm going home now,” The singer stated and headed to the door, “Do we have to be here early tomorrow?” He asked Sakano before exiting.

“Nine is fine.” The manager replied feeling guilty, he too thought that Shuichi was very alike Sakuma-san sometimes

“All right… bye then” The singer waived, and left, deep in his own thoughts.

“Now you've done it!” Hiro turned sternly to Suguru, as soon as Shuichi was out of sight. “He was down the whole week, and now that he finally seemed to cheer up, you go on and say something like that!”

`What!? How was I supposed to know that he would take it to heart? And what about you with all those Yuki Eiri jokes… those are a lot worse!” Suguru defended himself.

“How would you like me to compare you to Tohma?” Hiro asked. Suguru's face took a drastic change, and then looked at the ground embarrassed, he knew exactly how Shuichi must be feeling right now.

“Sorry,” he muttered.

“I'll wait a couple of hours, then I'll call him.” Hiro turned his attention to Sakano.

“Good, make sure you bring his spirits up.” The manager begged, they had a very important interview and he could not afford Shuichi feeling blue.

“Will do,”

XXX

Mikka stared at the magazine disbelievingly. There must be some sort of mistake! It couldn't be that she was number five, while those bastard were number two, even with the Nittle Grasper collaboration. She should have been able to be on the second spot.

“Mikka-chan, you almost did nothing to promote your album, while those kids were all over town… even in small time record stores. People eat up those kinds of stunts.” Her manager defended his reliability before she could say anything to undermine him.

“Number Five…” She said lowly, angrily, “You expect me to believe that even with the little promoting we did, I deserve such a low place?” Her tone rose, as did her anger. She had known she couldn't beat Grasper… but Bad Luck! That was inconceivable.

“Mikka-chan, there are a lot of good acts releasing these days, then you have Grasper collaborating with Bad Luck as a tactic to…” Mikka held out her hand to shut him before he could finish his foolish excuse

“You mean to tell me those `nobody' are better than me, is that it?” She could hardly manage the words; such was the anger she felt. It was not a matter of popularity and tactics; it was a matter of pride.

“Of course not, but they are NG's golden boys these days, and you know Seguchi-sama is personally involved in their publicity.”

“I know all this, you need not tell me!” Mikka snapped, “Regardless, I pay you more than you deserve, to make sure little fish like that don't ruin my reputation.”

“But Mikka, be reasonable. You even canceled a show you had with them last week. The public react to these things, you know that better than anyone. Remember how your popularity went to the dumps when you got engaged with Yuki-sama.”

“What does he have to do with your inability to do your job?!” The angry singer countered.

“Since he announced the end of Kenshin, his popularity had seem to increase, and remember what happened on First Stage…you know what happens when he makes head lines,” Her manager argued matter of fact. She knew very well what happened when Eiri made headlines. The fact that she was engaged with Japan's `other' sex god, was something that didn't sit too well with the female population. And of course she remembered very well what had happened at First Stage, she had lived full of doubts because of that night.

“Those are just excuses.” Mikka snapped getting up.

“Where are you going?” The man in front of her asked agitated. “We have to come up with a strategy to bring you up to the top spots.”

“YOU come up with a strategy… that's what I pay you for.” And with that, the woman went out of the room.

Once in her car, she dialed Eiri's number; maybe he would have lunch with her. In truth, she didn't really care what place she was in the charts. It hurt that Bad Luck had scored so high, but it didn't matter that much, her pride had taken quite a bit of bruising in the past. She had her own agenda, and if it went as planed, she'd be retiring soon.

XXX

Suguru's words hit him hard. He was Ryuichi's clone. Every way he looked at it, the more obvious it became. Suguru had been right; all he needed was a freaking Kumagoro doll.

Shuichi exited the NG building, wearing his cap and sunglasses, and headed to the train station. He found that being around crowds relaxed him somewhat. The weather was beginning to change and the hot summer was turning into fall fast. He brought his collar up as much to guise himself, as to cover his face from the cool breeze.

He hurried his pace, passing a nearby newsstand, he had to stop to stare at his own face on the cover of a magazine; he smiled bitterly “Yup, I look just like Ryu… do you think the same Yuki?” He asked, berating himself for thinking about him.

He should be happy, all his dreams were coming true one by one… except. “Idiot! You swore you'd forget about him.” He muttered to himself, but a mental picture of those deep hazel eyes tore at his soul. Shuichi looked around at the other books and magazines, unconsciously stopping at the manga section.

“What title are you looking for young man?” The stand owner asked politely.

“Eh… nothing really.” Shuichi replied shyly.

“Well, if you like Yuki Eiri-sensei, he will release a brand new series.”

“New one?” Shuichi perked up.

“Yup, I got some promotional copies… quite something, totally different from any of his other works.”

“Do you have any left?” Shuichi asked, for some reason his heart began beating faster. He swore to cut all relation to Yuki Eiri, but he could not, he'd idolized him and loved him for far too long to just forget about him overnight.

“Lucky fellow, I only have one that I was holding for another costumer who never showed up.” The man handed him the book, and Shuichi almost dropped it when he saw himself on the cover.

“Angel Sanctuary,” He read aloud, running a finger over his own face. He quickly paid for it and ran to the train station. He wanted to read this more than anything. On his way to the station however, he ran past another interesting store. On its window, there was a huge poster of Ryuichi. Shu looked at it, and remembered his previous heartache. He went into the establishment, signed up, and waited to be called.

“Good afternoon sir,” The polite clerk greeted, “what would you like to have done?”

“I don't know, I want a total change, cut, color… anything. I'll leave it up to you.” Shuichi replied so ready for a change.

“Well, let's take a look,” The woman smiled taking off his cap, and running a hand over his hair, “Your hair is gorgeous, why would you want to change it? I have costumers who would kill to have hair like yours.”

“They can have it… all of it.” Shu let out.

“Oh… up to me you said?” The woman smiled and guided him to a chair.

XXX

“I'm not sure whether I should be the one playing the synth next Friday.” Suguru let out playing a few notes from Shinning Collection. Hiro stopped tuning his guitar and turned to the teen.

“Are we still talking about that… why the hell not?” He asked annoyed at the kid's lack of confidence.

“I mean, people want to see Grasper in action after so long, I mean, they're probably sick of me already. Tohma-kun should be the one to play with you guys.” Suguru replied absently, but Hiro could tell he was feeling anything but.

“Why should he? You recorded the tune.”

“Yeah, but I'm sure everyone would rather see Tohma-kun in action”

“Why would you say that? We ranked number two in Japan. We sold all those records as a band. That means Shuichi you and me. You have to give yourself more credit, you are a lot better than you think.” Hiro put his guitar aside and went to the teen.

“I know I'm good, I just… I don't know, I feel sometimes that I don't matter, that I' am only where I' am because of my family ties... I feel like such an outcast.” Suguru looked down. Hiro put a hand on his shoulder to make him feel better. At that moment the doors flew open and K-san charged in with Sakano in tow.

“Big news!” The blonde blurted taking in the scene, and smirking evilly, “ooh I'm gonna report you to the boss Hiro-chan.” He chanted; Hiro took his hand off Suguru's shoulder and rolled his eyes.

“Whatever, shouldn't you be babysitting a certain someone?” Hiro replied sarcastically, he could not comprehend what was so great about the blonde foreigner.

“Oh, he's ok, he's with his `other' sitter” K smiled.

“His other sitter?” Suguru repeated, immediately remembering Tatsuha. “So they did reconcile then?” the teen went from feeling bad, to worthless in a matter of seconds.

“I don't even want to know.” Hiro rolled his eyes again, “So what's the big news?” He asked, changing the subject for Suguru's sake.

“Oh yes! I arranged an appearance on Live Wire, Ryuichi wants to do the new song with you guys.”

“Don't we have to be in `Jukebox' tonight Sakano-san?” Suguru asked turning to their manager.

“That's what I been trying to tell him!” The man replied helplessly.

“Ryuichi wants to do this. Are you going to deny such a powerful figure in the music industry?” K stated.

“Does Tohma approve of this?” Hiro asked ignoring K's question, Sakano turned to him hopeful, and K rolled his eyes.

“I'm sure he wouldn't mind, he does have a whole company to run, he can't bother to watch every band's business. Besides, the more publicity to his honey buns the better I'd say, ne Hiro-kun?” K smirked, Hiro glared at him, but the foreigner didn't seem to mind.

“Let's do it!” Another voice added excitedly, they all turned to see an approaching boy with bright pink hair smiling and waiving.

“Shindou-kun?” Sakano asked unsure. Suguru's eyes almost popped out of their sockets and Hiro started laughing like a child.

“What the hell did you do to your hair?” K asked matter of fact.

“What, you mean this?” The singer touched a strand of pink hair dismissively and shrugged, “I just cut it a little,” He replied loosely.

“Shindou-san,” Suguru came to him and bowed low, “I' am so sorry, I didn't mean it, I was just…”

“Why are you sorry about?” Shuichi asked confused, scratching his ear.

“If I hadn't said what I said yesterday…”

“What the hell are you talking about? You're all acting as if I chopped my arm or something… its just hair.” Shuichi sat on a chair and crossed his arms waiting for them to stop making such a big fuss-- but loving every minute of it-- Suguru's expression had been priceless. “I think it would be good if we go with Grasper, we don't even have to tell Seguchi, remember the stun we pulled on the day of Gravity's release… he didn't get mad.” Shuichi reassumed the previous conversation where it had left off.

“ Yes I think so too.” K agreed, nodding.

“Its way different, I doubt Tohma would go for this.” Hiro insisted.

“That's right! We have to run it by Seguchi-sama,” Sakano came to stand next to Hiro.

“You two are wusses!” Shuichi threw up his arms.

“It does sound appealing.” Suguru said pensive.

“That's the spirit!” K encouraged, they all turned to Hiro.

“Wait, I'm not… why me?” The guitarist took a step back.

“Do we have to say it?” Shuichi rolled his eyes, and Hiro started laughing again.

`Sorry man… it's just… you look too cute!”

“Fuck you! Like I care what you think. Just get your ass upstairs and talk to Seguchi,” Shuichi barked, “Fuck him if you must!”

“Talk to me about what?” Shuichi's face went dead white, and then turned all colors. He turned, very, very slowly and bowed low before his eyes made contact with his boss'.

“Seguchi-san…I'm sorry… I mean… I didn't,”

“What did you do to your hair?” Tohma asked disregarding the vulgar comment and the apology.

“I cut it.” Shuichi replied, still bowing,” Tohma turned to Sakano with a serious expression on his face.

“Who approved of this?” To this question, Shuichi lifted his head and set his lavender eyes on their producer.

“Approved?” He asked confused.

“ It is stated in your contract that you are not to alter your appearance without the consent of your manager. In this case Sakano-san.” The said manager watched Shuichi's face going from embarrassment to anger; he quickly stepped forward before the singer could further anger the blonde producer.

“We discussed it yesterday Seguchi-sama, and we all agree on how similar Sakuma-san and Shindou-kun look, so we thought that since you will all be doing shows together, that a change might be in order.” The manager replied nervously. Tohma looked at Shuichi, then at Hiro, then back at Shuichi.

“So you all agree with this new look then?” Everyone except Shuichi nod, “Very well… Hiro, come with me.” Tohma walked out of the studio with Hiro in tow. The producer walked down the hall, followed by his lover in silence, turned the corner, stopped, turned to meet the long haired man's eyes and began laughing hysterically. Hiro cracked up as well.

“It's the same thing I said!” The guitarist leaned on his lover's shoulder with one hand and held his stomach with the other.

“Pink?” Tohma could hardly talk; it had taken all his will not to burst out laughing in front of the boy.

“Hey! It don't look that bad.” Hiro held onto the wall now.

“Oh man… that made my day.” Tohma leaned and kissed Hiro quickly on the lips.

“What do I owe this honor?” Hiro asked. Since the day of the release, they'd hardly saw each other, other than at night, and by then they were too tired to do much.

“I just wanted to see you, I'd had a rough morning.” Tohma kissed him again.

“Already? It's just ten.” Hiro kissed him this time.

“Yeah, tell me about it!” Tohma rolled his eyes, and then remembered, “Weren't you supposed to go upstairs to ask me something… fuck me if you must?”

“Oh yeah, about tonight's Live Wire. It seems Ryu-san got us a spot and wants to do Shinning Collection. They figured if I gave you head, you might allow it.”

“If you give me head, I might think about it.” Tohma purred.

“Tough job,” Hiro sighed holding the bridge of his nose, “But somebody's gotta do it.” grabbing Tohma's hand, Bad Luck's guitarist literally pulled the mogul towards the elevators.

XXX

“Eiri-san, we have to leave. You have a magazine interview at two, a photo shoot for New Type at four, and we have to be at the television station by eight for the show tonight.” Yuki's assistant read his itinerary as one would a bible. Yuki sat at his desk reading the Oricon charts and was feeling pretty giddy that Bad Luck had ranked so high. Of course he would never tell a soul about it. He put the magazine down and looked at the copy of Gravity on his desk. He had to smile as he remember how he came to own the CD he'd bow not to buy.

XXX Flashback XXX

Yuki came into his office building. The short vacation trip had not turned out as relaxing as he had hoped. He walked past everyone without even giving them a glance, ignoring their greetings and foolish questions about his trip.

Once in his spacious office, Yuki slumped on his desk, thankful for the moment's peace. Since he'd told Mikka to go ahead and set a date for the wedding, the woman had not left him be.

“Hmph, I'm not even married and I already want a divorce.” He sighed, slouching on his chair even more. He turned his head and saw a pile of `important' letters and a few `urgent' messages by the phone. He wished he had the will to work, to care the way he used to. Life was getting too difficult too fast, and he had no idea how to deal with it. His memories went back to that day at the springs, Shuichi holding on to that second rate singer, whispering in his ear. It had infuriated him to the point of wanting to hurt someone. And it was because of that stupid fury that he had rashly promised Mikka that they'd tie the knot.

“What to do… what to do?” He asked the EVA -01 model on his desk. A knock interrupted his thoughts, Yuki snapped his eyes to the door indignated, but thankful to have someone to unleash his fury on.

“Who is it?” He snapped.

“Onizuka, Yuki-sama.” The mild voice of his manager replied.

“Come in.” The man let himself in and bowed.

“How was your trip Yuki-sama? We are very glad to have you back.” Yuki snapped his eyes to a package the man was holding, ignoring everything the man had just said “This came for you this morning, the messenger said to make sure it was given to you personally… I was not sure whether I…”

“Who sent it?” Yuki cut the man in mid sentence.

“NG Records.” Onizuka came closer and set a box on the desk. Yuki looked at it, and then turned to his manager.

“We're releasing a Promo copy of Angel Sanctuary next Monday. Assemble everybody for a meeting in one hour.” Onizuka bowed and left without another word.

Yuki sat staring at the package for a long while before daring to touch it.

“What the hell is wrong with me?” He asked disgusted with himself and his childish behavior. He took the package and tore the brown paper determinately. Inside there was a note, he took it and had to smile at Tohma's handwritten words.

“I saw the way you were looking at his cute face,

so I thought this would cheer you up.

Love

Tohma

PS: This my friend, is a very special, one of its kind, ultra-super rare edition… take care of it with your life.”

Yuki smiled in spite of himself. He set the note aside and examined the contents of the box one by one. There it was of course, the special edition copy of Gravity, a bonus DVD, Shindou Shuichi stationary and other Shuichi related items, a VIP “all access” backstage pass, to what Yuki guessed would be for their upcoming concerts. His name printed in bold letters.

He threw it all back in the box, and set it aside, taking only the CD. He got up and put it in his stereo and played it loud.

“…I gotta go home and draw.” He sighed as the first song ended; he put the CD carefully back in its case and left.

“We'll have our meeting in the morning, I'm leaving now” Yuki said over his shoulder to an approaching Onizuka. The manager bowed used to the sudden change in plans

XXX End of Flashback XXX

“ I know very well what I have to do, just do me a favor and wait outside, I have a phone call to make, and tell Onizuka to take all my calls.” Yuki came out of his reminiscing, and grouched in his usual bossy way. The man bowed and left.

Yuki grabbed the phone and dialed,

“Well, this is a surprise!” Tohma Seguchi exclaimed breathlessly. Yuki smirked knowing that tone too well.

“I just called to congratulate you on your very well deserved top spot Seguchi-sama, and to properly thank you for the little gift you sent, the garbage can really appreciates it… oh, and say hi to Hiro-kun for me, I know he's down there.” Yuki smirked picturing the scene, did his old flame got any work done now that he had a new man?

“The things you say Eiri-kun!” Tohma laughed, “Are you going to congratulate Bad Luck as well, they did a hell of a lot better than I expected.”

“Hey!” Eiri could hear Hiro in the background.

“I'm sure you already did a lot of congratulating… isn't that what you're doing now producer-sama?”

“Something like that.”

“Anyway, I'll see you tonight, we'll talk a bit more, I'll be doing an interview on tonight's `Jukebox', I was told this morning that you'll be in the panel as well.” There was a silence on the other end of the line.

“Really, that's good, I didn't know you'd be doing any shows this time around.” Tohma said a bit uncomfortable.

“I will be releasing a brand new series, is it that wrong of me to want to promote it?”

“You've never have before.”

“Well, times change, anyway, I will not take more of your time… enjoy.” Yuki chanted.

“This wouldn't happen to have anything to do with the fact that Bad Luck will be in that show as well would it Eiri?” Tohma asked tightly.

“Is that so? What makes you think that I have time to worry about such trivialities? You do know I have a whole company to run and a wedding that needs planning. By the way, we set the day already… you'll never believe it!” Yuki retort casually, running a hand through his hair. Tohma sat up tightening his features, Hiro just looked at his grave face without saying a word.

“You're not seriously going to go through with that nonsense are you Eiri? The producer let out tonelessly.

“Of course I will, in fact I'm very much looking forward to it, of course I want everyone to share my happiness so I'm going to announce it on tonight's show.”

“You wouldn't!” Tohma challenged.

“Hey! What's with the tone, I'd think you'd be happy for me. Well, I have to go, my day is pretty booked, lucky the ones who have time for blowjobs.” And without waiting for a reply, the mangaka hanged up.

XXX

Tohma was left with a sour taste in his mouth. Why was Eiri acting so childishly? Hadn't he learned anything, didn't he know that he'll end up miserable just like he had?

“Are you alright Tohma?” Hiro asked concerned, sitting next to his lover.

“Yeah, it just gets me how he operates sometimes.” The producer patted Hiro's hand.

“You can baby-sit him forever.” Hiro let out, “He will end up resenting you.” Tohma looked at his lover and smiled sadly, knowing all too well the veracity of those words.

“I know, I won't interfere anymore, let him do what he wishes and hope that he won't regret it. Although I know he will, but then again, that's probably what needs to happen.” Tohma sat back remembering all times.”

XXXFlashbackXXX

“Get her off my back!” Yuki snapped as Tohma busied himself reading the record label's newest projections.

“I thought moving in with Mikka was the best thing you ever did.” Tohma said nonchalantly, not taking his eyes off the papers in front of him.

“Shut up! The woman does not let me work! I didn't think anyone could be this annoying.” The young mangaka ran a hand through his hair.

“I told you would regret it, I know very well that you do not take commitment that kindly.”

“What is that supposed to mean? I am a lot more committed than you.” Tohma ignored him and feigned to continue on reading, “I hate the bitch, get her off my back!” The young hotheaded artist repeated menacingly.

“If you hate her that much, break up with her.” Tohma looked up.

“Wouldn't you like that Tohma oniisan… to have me all to yourself.” Yuki spat.

“You moved in with her out of spite, so now live with it. I have nothing to do with your immaturity.”

“You owe me!” Eiri slammed his palm on the desk, Tohma shifted his cold eyes to the mangaka, but the young blonde did not back down.

“I owe you? I do nothing but to live on your beck and call, I give you everything you ask and even what you don't and you have the gall to come here and tell me that I owe you?” Tohma's tone was low and slow… his most menacing one

“I…Look, I don't mean to give you a hard time… I just, she's driving me crazy!” Eiri came around the desk and kneeled, setting his head on Tohma's lap. The mogul instinctively caressed his longish blonde locks

“But what can I do?” Tohma asked calming down. Eiri lifted his head, setting his stressed eyes on his lover.

“Mikka said she wants to act, you have connections, I'm sure you can get her an audition or two.” Eiri came up and held Tohma's face with his own, “Just get her away from me for a while, so that I can breathe.” Eiri begged.

“I can do that, but I'll have no control over the outcome of those auditions.” The producer said matter of fact, “How about singing? I can guarantee a deal for that.”

“Would you?” Eiri perked.

“What would you do for it?” Tohma purred seductively.

“Oh you have no idea…”

XXX End of Flashback XXX

Maybe then Shuichi will make his move.” Hiro said claiming Tohma's attention.

“What if he doesn't?” The producer couldn't shake the bad feeling that crept up his spine.

“Then we're there for him to console him.”

XXX

Why didn't you tell me Yuki would be a guest on the show?” Shuichi demanded exasperated, running a hand through his hair. Hiro just looked the other way pretending he didn't know what his friend was talking about.

“What makes you think I knew?” The longhaired man lamely disputed the obvious.

“Like Seguchi wouldn't tell you!” Shuichi paced the room back and forth, running his hand again through his newly pink locks, “I can't share a show with him… I'm not ready.” The singer finally admitted what he'd been denying for so long.

“I thought you didn't give a fuck about him anymore.” Hiro reminded him of the statement Shuichi must have made a thousand times.

“You know me better than that Hiro…” The singer's eyes seemed lost.

“It was out of Tohma's hands, he only found out this morning… if that makes you feel any better.” Hiro tried to cheer him up. Shuichi only gave him a weak smile that needed no words.

“What can you do ne? I guess I'll have to tough it up. Like they say `the show must go on'” Shu sighed resigning himself.

“At least we'll only be doing a performance this time, and don't have to sit in the panel with him.” Hiro added.

“But why would Sakano-san schedule us with him?

“I don't think he realized it, besides… I don't think he `knows'” Hiro quoted adding emphasis to the last part.

“Everyone knows I'm a loser who cannot keep a man interested long enough.” Shuichi mumbled.

“You're being too hard on yourself,”

“How so? Yuki didn't even give me a chance, and Ryuichi moved on before we even got to do anything.”

“You're a bigger martyr than Joan of Arc?”

“Joan of who… whatever, I don't want to talk about it anymore.” Shuichi sat down, “But I do feel pretty betrayed, I bet Seguchi could have done something.”

“In spite of what you might think, we are not NG's top priority, Tohma has a whole company to run, and he cannot be on top of our petty business twenty-four-seven.” Hiro defended his love's reliability.

“I know…I'm sorry I'm just frustrated, forgive me if I sound so whiny, but after reading his new book, I don't know if I can handle a meeting with him.” Shuichi admitted.

“I know! What's that all about?” Hiro asserted, “I paged through it… that dude looks just like you.”

“It is me… I mean, I think it is.” Shuichi was quick to correct himself.

“Then that's good isn't it? Eiri-san is actually writing manga about you.” Hiro again tried to cheer his friend. “That must mean something.”

“Did you read it?”

“No,”

“Do… then we talk. The man hates me Hiro, and the bitch of it all is that I don't know why.”

“He just doesn't know what he wants. Tohma told me that he would not speak to him for months at the time, then he would come around as if nothing, he had a really hard childhood, didn't have friends or anyone to talk to, that's why I think…”

“This is great! Now my best friend is making excuses for him.” Shuichi threw his hands up.

“It's not excuses, but I know what it feels to be a misfit. I was a rebel without a cause right until I met you.”

“What are you saying?”

“That if you were able to change me, you can change him.”

“I don't have time for this.” Shuichi snapped not wanting to hear any more and get his hopes up. He got up and went to the door.

“Then, if you won't try forget about him once and for all and, stop being such a sorry wuss. You're a good looking guy, you can get a man like this” Hiro clicked his fingers for emphasis, “You don't need him.”

Shuichi looked at his friend. Wondering just whose side he was? Sometimes he seemed to encourage him to fight, and others, he would sound as if he was on Yuki's side or as if he didn't care altogether. “Just read that manga, then you tell me what you think I should do.”

“Would you do it? That's the real question.” Hiro let out. Shuichi looked at him a bit longer, then walked out not knowing where to go and hide.

Yuki's manga was about a demon and a demon slayer… was that the way he felt about him? The singer shook his head trying to clear it from thoughts of the blonde man. He'll deal with it, he always did. He'll share the show with him tonight, and tomorrow would be a new day, and a new beginning for him.

XXX

Tohma came into the spacious dressing room. Eiri sat still, with a hairdresser still working on his golden locks. The mangaka waived for her to leave, she did, and no sooner than the room was cleared, Tohma Seguchi turned his wrath on his ex-lover.

“You did this on purpose didn't you?” Yuki shifted his golden eyes to his ex resentfully.

“Why would I do that, and why are you so adamant about sticking up for those brats as if you were their bitch?” Tohma's gaze hardened.

“Think what you want, I don't know what is your game, but I think you should stop.”

“I don't know what you mean, I will release a new project and I'm here to promote it just like your boys, so don't come to me with your petty threats… I'm not afraid of you.” Eiri spat angrily.

“Yuki stop!” Tohma only called him by his alias when he was upset beyond his limits, “I read your `new' project”

“So, did you like it?” Yuki smirked.

“If you don't want to be with him don't be, but leave him be… he doesn't deserve this.” Tohma continued ignoring Yuki's sarcasm.

“What are you? Advocate for the suffering?”

“You know? I thought you'd get over yourself and admit you have feelings for Shuichi, but now, I hope you don't. You are not good enough for him.” Yuki's gaze on the producer turned hateful. Shuichi's words immediately came to mind.

“I was good enough for you.” Tohma's eyes hardened as well.

“No you weren't.” The producer turned and made his way out without another word. Yuki stared after him long after he was gone. Grabbing a vase of flowers the show's producers sent him; he threw it against the door, watching it shatter into a thousand pieces.

“Fuck you! Fuck you both, I don't need you… I don't need anybody.” The last part was barely a whisper. He covered his eyes with a shaky hand, and for the first time in years… he let the tears flow.

XXX

As soon as Tohma left Eiri, he got on the phone with the show's execs. He could tolerate a lot, especially from those he loved, but this time Eiri was being malicious, and that, he would not allow.

Somewhere else in the building, Bad Luck waited in silence, their usual bubbly mood, or petty arguments seemed a thing of the past. Tensions ran high and spirits low.

“It'll be alright,” Hiro voiced to his pensive friend. Shuichi shifted his eyes to the longhaired man for a second, and then went back to his previous mopping self.

“Do you think we should do another song? I mean we did No Style last week.” Suguru asked absently trying to lighten the tense mood. He didn't care either way, but as much as he hated to admit, the heavy silence was killing him. Shuichi shifted his gaze to look at him, then back to the floor.

“I'm game, but we already rehashed it.” Hiro replied joining the conversation.

“I know, but I kind of like Blade better.” Suguru continued in hopes to get Shuichi to join, but the singer seemed miles away.

The doors flew open and Tohma barged in with Sakano in tow. “Change of plans,” The producer stated seriously. You're doing Shining Collection with Grasper. I already called Ryuichi and Noriko they should be here soon. I will join the panel as a guest as it was planned, right before you are to play.”

“What!” All three member of Bad Luck exclaimed in unison.

“You said First Stage had first rights to a joint performance.” Hiro questioned disbelievingly, it was so unlike Tohma to pull something like this all of a sudden.

“ I changed my mind. In any case, they pushed us to the end of the program to give the others time to get ready. They'll say Bad Luck is having technical difficulty and keep Grasper as a surprise guest.”

“Why are you doing this Tohma-kun?” Suguru asked confused.

“Let's just say I'm stealing a bastard's thunder.” The blonde mogul stated simply.

“Yuki's?” Shuichi asked lowly. Tohma shifted his eyes to him, but didn't utter a reply.

“Sakano-san, is Grasper's equipment here already? We barely have time to get it installed by the end of the show.” The producer turned to the nervous manager.

“Not yet Seguchi-sama, but more importantly, Noriko-san just called. Ukai-sensei is not doing very well. She might not make it.” Tohma turned to Suguru.

“I will be your back up.” He stated not surprised by the bad news. He had a talk to Noriko after they came back from Hokkaido, and this time it seemed to be worst than the others. Ukai-sensei's health was declining quickly and Noriko was a nervous wreck.

“But I was Noriko-san's back up” Suguru protested.

“I know, you're taking her place, I'm taking yours.” Tohma replied matter of fact.

“But…” The teen was cut by his cousin's hand.

“You know the song well, you can do it.” Tohma smiled warmly.

“What about First Stage?” Hiro asked.

“I'll deal with them later.”

“Shuuuuu-chan!!” The doors flew open again and a running Ryuichi stopped dead in his tracks in front of the younger singer. He looked at him for a few moments, then a huge grin adorned his features, “Your hair matches Kuma-chan. I love it, you look so cute!” And the older man threw himself on the younger singer and hugged him tight.

“What the hell did you do to your hair?” Tatsuha's snickered making his way into the crowded room.

“What? Are you Ryu's shadow now?” Shuichi let out sarcastically, happy that the two had solved their issues.

“You want me to be your shadow… I can dye my hair blonde.” The teen grinned back.

“Tatsuha!” Tohma warned. Suguru moved to a corned to avoid the arriving couple, and hoped Tatsuha didn't turn his sarcasm on him. He was not in the mood for the monk.

“Make it purple, then we'll match.” Shuichi husked sexily ignoring the producer.

“In what fucked up world does pink and purple match?” Hiro laughed, happy that Shu was in better spirits.

“They do!” Ryuichi turned to the guitarist and the conviction on his face made Hiro laugh louder.

“I'm glad you're all having a great time, but shouldn't you be getting ready?” Tohma interrupted.

“Party pooper!” Tatsuha coughed.

“I want to match with Shu!” Ryuichi whined, K-kun, get Kouske-kun to get me the same outfit,” The older singer turned to his manager, who had been standing by the door all along.

“We don't have time Ryuichi...” Tohma began.

“Are you doubting my Kou-kun?” Ryuichi put a hand to his chest in mock offence, “He can do the impossible I'll have you know.” Ryuichi stated proudly, turning to look for his assistant, and smiling when he saw he was already gone.

“Ryu-kun, the reason why I colored my hair like this is so that people stop saying I'm your clone.” Shuichi explained.

“Who cares what people say? I like Shu-kun's look, don't you like how I look?”

“I do!” Tatsuha raised a hand dutifully. Shuichi rolled his eyes, but otherwise ignored him.

“It's not that, I just want to have my own style.”

“I have my style, and tonight that style is to look like Shu-chan.” Ryuichi smiled innocently.

“How can you argue with this face?” Tatsuha came and held his lover's face for Shuichi to see. Ryuichi gave him puppy eyes and a pout.

“I guess not,” Shuichi smiled warmly, “…I guess not.”

XXX

A/N: Kyaaaa The suspense is killing me!! Don't throw tomatoes at me yet. Since the chapter is so long, I'm diving it into two parts… just in case you have to go to work or something (ehehe) If not, go on to the second exiting part. (Where the best was saved for last)