Gravitation Fan Fiction ❯ Forever Gone, Forever You (revised) ❯ Chapter Three: Cross Bridges ( Chapter 3 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
By: Crimsonreverse 
Anime/Manga: Gravitation Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Drama / Romance / Angst | Type: Yaoi | Uploaded On: 06.26.2006 | Pages: 2 | Words: 4.7K | Visits: 291 | Status: Work In Progress
Anime/Manga: Gravitation Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Drama / Romance / Angst | Type: Yaoi | Uploaded On: 06.26.2006 | Pages: 2 | Words: 4.7K | Visits: 291 | Status: Work In Progress
Disclaimer: Blah Blah Blah . . . I don't own a damn thing.
Author's Note: Interesting last chapter. Yuki's engage, Shuichi's depressed, just the typical story. That's life, can't change that. Anyhow, don't worry because I'm keeping all my original characters from my first one because what's the point of changing it. Anyhow, this is going to be an interesting chapter because Raiden is making an appearance and watch the sparks between both characters burst into a wild fire . . . growl! Hehe, don't worry . . . its coming much . . . much later. Hope you enjoy!
"I wanted to be with you, I wanted nothing but your affection and love. I craved for it and in the end, it only brought me pain. And the more pain it brought me, the more I wanted. That's when I knew that I'm not right . . . that I enjoy the abusive things you've done to me. Does that make me truly masochistic?"
Shuichi Shindou (Bad Luck)
Sometimes, I wonder why I chose to stay with Yuki for so many years. Did I really want to help him over come his horrible past or did I want to forget about mines? There are things I never to anyone, I don't want to tell anyone. Those who lie to the ones they love will only be hurting himself. Did I truly cause this to happen to myself? When I lie awake every night, thinking about all the things I've could have done, I didn't do it. Just like with Yuki, I could have screamed for help, I could have reported him for abuse, but I didn't. I continued to let him do it and in return I devoted my every being to be with him. I let him do things I thought were horrible when done to others. To me, that makes me the real suspect and him just an innocent bystander. Then my mind turns away from that aspect of my life and return to the previous ones that drove me to point blank insanity. My feelings for a man who would never return them is now getting married to someone who probably don't even know him. I'm not over him and I will never be as long as I continue to live my life without him . . . he will always be imbedded into my soul. I'm his . . . he said it himself . . .
"Exactly . . . how is this supposed to help me become famous?"
"Simple Raiden, a friend of my sister was telling me that his band needed something new and fresh to add to their sudden revelation. Of course, I recommend you because not only are you sexy, you can beat the drums like you bang on . . ."
"I get the point, no need to go that deep. They probably want some professional drummer, who can actually be worth playing for some cool band, Sora. Why would they hire someone like me?”
"Shut up, you are the greatest drummer I even seen. Besides, I haven't told him that you got a voice of a god also, but we're not focusing on that. Trust me babe, we're going to make you famous . . . in a nick of time."
"I'm afraid . . . did you talk to Ayame about this?"
"Um . . . she's busy with the wedding, don't have time. Hurry up; we're going to be late if you keep dragging like that. Move it whore!"
Slate blue eyes looked through long black bangs at the petite woman who stopped and turned to him, glaring. Sighing, he don't even know why he's doing this. He had better things to do today, like go to the club and drink himself to a coma. Shoving his hands into his pocket, he start fiddling with his keys, making Sora growl and walk away as he slowly followed. Looking around, he never seen a building like this before. N-G was the biggest record company in Japan. He heard that many of his favorite singers worked with N-G and today he's walking through the very grounds they stepped on. He didn't know exactly how Sora got this, but regardless he finally got his wish. Fame and fortune pouring at his feet, but of course he had to become known before he could swim with the fishes. As they both walked side by side down the endless hall, he wondered where they were going. Sora never filled him in on any information and it often ticked him off. Of course, this was Sora . . . he best friend in the world. Turning the corner, they came to the end, seeing giant wooden doors staring at them. Large letters T.S. was engraved into the wood, which made him wonder who the owner of N-G. was. He really never knew because he never paid that much attention.
Coming up to the door, Sora stopped first as she stood in front of the door. Staring at her, he watched as she started fixing her jacket to her two piece suit and her hair. First impression are the best, she always told him making him groan. While she looked all business like, he looked like a bum. Unruly black hair all over the place, not even combed. Baggy jeans hanging half off his ass and a huge t-shirt. Dirty black Converses completely his outfit and a Gucci watch his mother brought him on his twenty-four birthday. He looked like a slut, but of course Sora know how to make him look good in his worst. Watching the petite woman, he wasn't expecting her to do something that ridiculous. Sora clenched her hand into a fist and literally start banging on the door as if she was trying to confront a lover in anger. Groaning, why must she do something embarrassing every time they go out? Hearing someone walking quickly to the door, Sora stopped as the huge wooden door opened. Aquamarine eyes looked inside, but was greeted by the tip of a 9mm Magnum. She stared at it dully then moved her eyes up to the owner. Seeing long blonde hair flow down and piercing blue eyes glaring at her, she just smiled as if the gun did not exist.
"Well, I know Tohma needed protection, but damn . . . he got you? How much did he pay you? One night of freedom or two?" she asked, as the man pulled the slide back on the gun, returning back to aim at her. Sora's slender brow rose, wondering if he knew she wasn't going to back down, she like a deadly challenge.
As blue eyes harden, he wanted to know what her problem is. "Who the hell are you and why were you banging on the door? Speak now or I'll shoot you?" he threaten, making Sora laugh and Raiden's eyes widen. Raiden knew she was crazy, but when she was at gun point, she's insane.
Sora shook her head, raising her hand and placing it on the gun. Holding it, she pushed it to the side as she gave K a wicked smirk. "Oh trust me; I'm not afraid of you or your gun. I've seen worst, trust me I was born and raised in the outskirt of Los Angeles. Try me . . ." she hissed, releasing the gun and pushing K to the side. Stepping inside, Raiden quickly followed her heeled footsteps, apologizing to the man in the process.
As she walked in, she looked around the office, whistling loudly getting every ones attention. Placing her hand on her hips, she nodded in approval. Turning her eyes towards the huge desk that was propped in the middle, she saw cerulean eyes look at her, expecting her to come but slightly marveled. Grinning, she never seen anything like this. Her sister did tell her that he was rich, but damn he turn his office into some grand plaza. Everything was surrounded by glass windows that went from the ceiling to the floor. A huge television was built into the wall as it was surrounded by electronics that would cost her years of pay checks to get. On the other side was a nice little wait area accompanied by a huge leather couch and matching arm chairs. A fancy coffee table was in the middle and matching lamb tables. Beautiful glass lamps rest upon the glass tops, glimmering from the flowing sun light. She was impressed and she should compliment him in his design choice. She knew the president of N-G always had good taste, he was a sophisticated guy.
"Damn Tohma, my sister did tell me you have wonderful taste. I love your design . . . how I should say . . . retro maniac?" she replied, returning her wondering eyes back to the boss as he smiled at her. Oh how she loved his fake smile . . . it makes her want to just pinch him.
Tohma just smiled; absolutely forgotten she was supposed to be coming. Standing up at his desk, he couldn't believe that she could make so much noise for such a little person. He would have to call Noriko to tell her about her sister and her interesting arrival. "I'm glad you like my office, Ukai-san. Haven't you grown into such a beautiful young woman? I haven't seen you since you were a little girl. You didn't change one bit."
Laughing, she placed her hands behind her back, smiling at the man. "Nope, I'm always going to be that same bad ass little girl. And you haven't changed much either . . . eh pimp? So how did you get such fine ass hoes?" she asked, cracking up laughing, making everyone in the room blush, including Tohma.
Clearing his throat, he didn't want to really respond to that so he decided to change the subject. "Oh, you are just like your sister. Anyway, did you enjoy Los Angeles? Noriko called me telling me that you returned back home."
"Yep, I have some unfinished business to take care of. Even though LA is home, I like Tokyo better; I can be with my mom and her new hubby. Did Nori tell you that mom is having a baby . . . woman is producing kids left and right." she said that in English, making Tohma chuckle, leaving the others confused.
Raiden groan as he stepped next to her, making her look up at him, gasping. Seeing she total forgot about him during her reminiscing on the past, she grabbed his arm, pushing him forward. Stumbling, he wondered if she had some death wish for him or something. "Man, I completely forgot. Tohma, this is my best friend Raiden Toshiba. He's like the best drummer in all of Tokyo, you can't find better." she gloated, making Raiden blush. She always did this to him, sometimes she get carried away.
Tohma looked at Raiden, as his brow rose. Raiden groaned once again, knowing that the man was checking out his outfit and he had to make up an excuse for such tacky appeal. "Sorry, I had a gig down at the new club. I didn't get a chance to change my clothes because I was hauled out of there by the devil in Gucci." he replied, earning a smack in the head from her.
"No need to apologize, you look perfectly fine. Anyway, let get down to business. K please put your gun away and come join us because this concerns you also as manager."
Everyone nodded, moving over to Tohma's desk. Raiden tagged behind as he looked at the three people who was sitting there quietly, watching him with hawk eyes. Wondering who they were, he knew they probably was a new band, still fresh with the crowd. Taking inventory, his eyes moved counter clockwise. Seeing a man sitting in a chair, he recognized him as bass player. With the rugged appearance, he knew he probably played hard. Beautiful gray eyes hidden behind long crimson hair that was pulled back. He had this gently feature about him, but also masculine. Moving his eyes to the next one, he notice that he was really young. His eyes moved to his fingers, seeing how perfectly bent they were and he knew he played piano or at least keyboard. Green hair was spiked up as brown eyes were large and glistening. He probably was still in his teens, late teens at least.
But what seem to amaze him was the lead singer. Seeing the man sitting back in the chair, legs spaced apart as hands dangled between them, he was the man's facial expression. He noticed that the man wasn't hot but beautiful, very handsome in his opinion. His expression was emotionless, which meant he been through some stuff and his violet eyes that were cold knew that it wasn't too long ago. Unruly raven hair hung shoulder length against his body, making him wonder if he was Emo. Noticing he was staring too long, he turned away and took a seat as Tohma done the same thing. Sora sat next to him as she grabbed his hand and held it within hers. Looking at her, her eyes were focused on Tohma as he started the meeting.
"Now let's begin," Tohma started as everyone nodded, silently waiting. "As you may know, everyone need change. Bad Luck has been on the winner circle for three years now and with the new improvement placed within the band, I think its time to change the instrumental section. Of course, I'm not saying that I don't like the bass and keyboard. Nakano-san and Fujisaki-san, you two play great, but I think its time to add something more . . . authentic." he stated, making Shuichi sit up straight in the chair, at least catching his attention.
Hiro looked at Tohma, wondering why he decided to change the way they play. It was bad enough when Shuichi changed the format of the music, but adding another instrument, that would make it difficult. "Seguchi-san, why must we change the instrumental part? Both Fujisaki and I are capable of doing everything." he exclaimed as the man nodded, blonde hair moved.
"I know Nakano-san, but I think for the type of music Shindou-san is producing, it needs something more. Like a drummer, just like all the rock bands in America. What do you think? You have the bass, drums, and keyboard. It would bring the band out more? What do you think, Shindou-san?"
Shuichi looked at Tohma in silent, eyes emotionless and hard to tell what he's thinking. Glancing at the guy next to the girl, he wondered if this is who would be there drummer. To him, the guy look like he didn't have any talent and in a way it irked him. "To tell you the truth, I don't care. What ever bring the band up is fine with me. Do what you want." he bluntly told him, no emotion behind his words.
Hiro gasped, wondering if Shuichi was truly out of his mind. "Shuichi, I mean do you really think we need a drummer?"
"Yeah Shindou-san. It's bad enough you're acting this way and now you just want to change the style of your music. Are you doing this because of Yuki-san?" Fujisaki asked as everyone just stopped, including him.
Violet eyes flashed as Shuichi turned to Fujisaki. They were so cold; no one knew that he could actually be this way. "This has nothing to do with him! I don't need to hear any of this from you or anyone. He's happy now, he's engage and he's out of my life. I don't need him, I don't need anyone! Don't ever question me again." he snapped at him, turning his eyes to Tohma as he slowly got up. "I don't care for the drummer, put him with the band. I'm out of here; I can't stand being here any longer. If you're looking for me, I'm in the studio working on some more lyrics. See ya." Full standing, he turned his back and walked away, hands shoved in his pockets.
No one dared to stop him as they watch him walk out of the room, slamming the door behind him. Sora sighed deeply, knowing this wasn’t really going go. “Well, that was a nice way of approval. Are you sure it was a yes and not a ‘go to hell bastards’.”
“I’m very sorry Ukai-san. He’s just been like this for a while; it’s really hard to deal with his emotion like this. He’s very vulnerable, please forgive him.” He apologized as Sora laughed.
“No problem, but did he happen to mention the name Yuki right? He’s not talking about Eiri Yuki, is he?”
Tohma raised a brow, wondering how she know Yuki. “Yes, he’s talking about Eiri Yuki? Do you happen to know him?”
Cracking up laughing, she couldn’t believe this; it was too good to be true. This must have been destiny or she just struck up luck. “Man . . . you are not going to believe this Tohma, but my friend right here . . . his sister is engage to Yuki-kun.”
Everyone gasped as they looked at him. Raiden face flushed seeing all eyes on him again, wondering what the hell he did. Hiro couldn’t believe it; he wanted to know if it was true. “Is it true, is Yuki really going to marry your sister?” he asked, getting a nod from Raiden.
“Yeah . . . sadly I don’t approve of it, but of course I don’t have control of my sister, she’s a grown woman. Why, did something happen between them or something?”
“You don’t watch television much do you?” K said, earning a glare from Sora as he looked at the woman. Grinning, he liked her, she was a challenge.
“For your information whore, Raiden is in college right now and he’s studying a lot. He doesn’t have time to be watching television. Besides, I already know about them two and they finally broke up after all of Japan finally except their homosexuality. Truly, you Japanese people are so homophobic.”
“Well, that’s not the point. The point is that Shuichi just agreed to let Toshiba-san join the band and all we have to do is draw up a contract and everything will be done. Is that alright with you Toshiba-san?”
Raiden nodded, not really listening because his mind returned to the lead singer that was probably sulking. He could feel his emotions perfectly clear; he was hurting but didn’t want anyone else to know. “Yeah, I’m fine with it.”
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I’ ;ve been looking in the mirror for so long,
That I’ve come to believe my soul’s on the other side.
All the little pieces falling . . . shatter.
Shards of me . . .
Shuichi stared down at his lyrics, wondering what they meant to him. He never felt like this before, he wasn’t use to writing so much. Tapping his pen on the side of the table, he concentrate on the true meaning. Was this some type of cry for help, to reach out to him and let him know how he’s feeling? He don’t know, but just staring down at half finish lyrics wasn’t going to give him a revelation. Bring his pen back to the paper, he begun writing the rest down. In the background, the soft melody of his song filled the air with distress as he listened to the morbid singing of his own voice. It sooth him, helped him get this creative flow. It came easier now since Yuki and him broke up, he felt much at ease. But right now, this wasn’t about Yuki, it was more about him. How he felt about all of this new arrangement. Basically, he didn’t really care as he put it to Tohma. It would be interesting to see how drums would bring the band to life. But what interesting him the most was the drummer Tohma wanted to hire. He never seen anyone like him before and to admit it, he felt some weird connection to him. He couldn’t forget the man’s image. He face was what intrigued him the most.
It was expressionless, but still held softness and awareness. Slate blue eyes that shined within the light that was in the office made him wonder if he was Japanese. Thick, unruly hair was all over the place, giving him the boyish aspect. The way he smiled or nodded, making his hair move in even flows. He couldn’t help but be this observant, he had to. Stop writing, he sighed deeply, hearing a loud knock coming from the studio door. Groaning, he wondered who was interrupting him. Pushing the chair back, he walked to the door, reaching out and turning the handle. Opening the door, he was about to shout, but he paused, seeing the drummer standing there. Raiden looked at Shuichi, knowing he was about to say something rude, but stop himself. Chuckling, he had to stop because he had a message.
“Sorry to bother you Shindou-san, but Seguchi-san wants you to come to studio A and listen to the instrumental part for your newest song.” He told him, seeing Shuichi sigh, nodding. Moving back, the man walked out the room, closing it behind and walked down the hall.
Shuichi didn’t say anything as he walked towards the studio. Wanting to know why Tohma couldn’t wait till tomorrow to nag him about the instrumental part, he just decided to go along. Raiden followed behind him, staring off into space. He felt uncomfortable walking with him, but everyone send him to retrieve him. He don’t understand them at all, it wasn’t hard to tell someone to come on, but they act like they were dealing with Satan or something. He wasn’t that scary, sure he had this cold demeanor but he only guarding what mentality he has left. Shuichi mind wondered off somewhere, as he turned the corner, almost to his destination. He wanted to know more about this person, so why not ask him questions, start interrogating him.
“Hey . . . what’s your name anyways?” he asked, starting with the easy question before crushing him with others.
Raiden snapped out of his world to hear Shuichi ask him a question. “Raiden . . . Raiden Toshiba.” He replied, making Shuichi stop as he stopped also, unsure why they stop.
Hearing the last name, he wondered if it’s possible for him to be related to the girl Yuki’s engage to. “Toshiba . . . are you related to some actress?”
Uneasy, he already was asked that by the others, but he couldn’t lie. His family was famous all over the world and he was on every cover of every magazine you can find. “Yeah . . . she’s my sister.”
Nodding, he started walking again, making Raiden follow once more. “Your sister . . . she’s very beautiful. I’ve seen some of her movies, she got talent.”
“Not really, personally I think she sucks and I’m not even going to discuss any of her photo shots. Seriously, she not that talented, they only want her because she has a pretty face and hot body.” Raiden bluntly said, throwing down his own sister, knowing that he would probably be repenting later at some shrine.
Shuichi chuckled, hearing him speak badly about his own sister. “That’s not nice, she’s trying.”
Raiden grunted as he shook his head. “Everyone in my family is bless with talent, but Ayame, she doesn’t have what it takes to become an actress. She only did it because my father does it. Now, she decided to marry some half bake romance novelist who always have ‘fuck the world’ written on his face. But they belong together, they have no talent.”
Listening, he couldn’t believe that he just insulted Yuki. Hearing someone else saying that his ex-lover doesn’t have talent made him feel little better. “I see . . . so you think Yuki-san doesn’t have any talent in writing. Does that make you an expert?”
Stopping, Raiden haven’t thought about that. Shuichi stopped also noticing that he wasn’t following him any more. Turning around, he stared at the man watching him have this blank expression on his face. Wondering what he was thinking, it probably is good. “Actually, it does. What Yuki-san write is all false. There is no such thing as romance, in my opinion. Love is such a confusing word, no one knows how to use it. Have you ever read an Eiri Yuki novel? All the nonchalant crap he put in there, it makes you wonder if he even experience anything. To me, to write a great story you have to at least experience such heartache and love to write one. Now if I told my sister that, she would beat the shit out of me with one of his novels.”
“You really think his novels are that bad?”
“Yeah and trust me I’ve read better. Like lyrics, now he could never understand the true passion within lyrics. Sure they are poetry, but that what bring out your story. Poetry can tell anything, any aspect of your life that you want to keep concealed. For me, I enjoy writing poetry because it helps me forget all I’ve gone through, release all the lingering anger I felt.”
“You know . . . you are very expressive. You are the first person I ever met that speaks so passionately about certain things.” Shuichi complimented him, seeing his face turn red for probably embarrassment.
Raiden cleared his throat, smiling. “I’m not really all that great and passionate. I just tell it like it is. Maybe you should try not to remember so much pain that you dealt with when you were with Yuki. All the pain you consume will only bring you down. It will take you to a place of no return and eternal darkness.”
“What are you talking about?”
“I’m just saying that you are expressing so much pain that its visible. Your boss and band mates may not see it, but I can. You are easy to read . . . like a book.”
“Whatever, I don’t know what you are talking about. I’m over Yuki, I move on.”
Raiden shook his head as he slowly approached Shuichi. Coming close to him, he stared into the man’s eyes, searching deeply into his orbs. Faintly smiling, he knew he was lying. “Then why do I see him within your eyes?”
TBC
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ *~*~*
Author’s Note: That’s it! A cliffhanger and you have to wait till the next chapter to see what’s going to happen. Man, Raiden is all psychic and stuff. He reading Shuichi like a book, making him all vulnerable. Interesting, I wonder what’s going to happen next. Just wait and see, I promise you it’s going to be good. We get to see Shuichi actually having an intellectual conversation with Raiden. Will sparks fly or slowly die?
Next Chapter: Reminiscing.
Tears that refuse to flow come pouring down to the earth . . .
This is absolute pain I haven’t felt before . . .
Enchantment is the name . . . and revealing is its game. . .
Author's Note: Interesting last chapter. Yuki's engage, Shuichi's depressed, just the typical story. That's life, can't change that. Anyhow, don't worry because I'm keeping all my original characters from my first one because what's the point of changing it. Anyhow, this is going to be an interesting chapter because Raiden is making an appearance and watch the sparks between both characters burst into a wild fire . . . growl! Hehe, don't worry . . . its coming much . . . much later. Hope you enjoy!
"I wanted to be with you, I wanted nothing but your affection and love. I craved for it and in the end, it only brought me pain. And the more pain it brought me, the more I wanted. That's when I knew that I'm not right . . . that I enjoy the abusive things you've done to me. Does that make me truly masochistic?"
Shuichi Shindou (Bad Luck)
Sometimes, I wonder why I chose to stay with Yuki for so many years. Did I really want to help him over come his horrible past or did I want to forget about mines? There are things I never to anyone, I don't want to tell anyone. Those who lie to the ones they love will only be hurting himself. Did I truly cause this to happen to myself? When I lie awake every night, thinking about all the things I've could have done, I didn't do it. Just like with Yuki, I could have screamed for help, I could have reported him for abuse, but I didn't. I continued to let him do it and in return I devoted my every being to be with him. I let him do things I thought were horrible when done to others. To me, that makes me the real suspect and him just an innocent bystander. Then my mind turns away from that aspect of my life and return to the previous ones that drove me to point blank insanity. My feelings for a man who would never return them is now getting married to someone who probably don't even know him. I'm not over him and I will never be as long as I continue to live my life without him . . . he will always be imbedded into my soul. I'm his . . . he said it himself . . .
"Exactly . . . how is this supposed to help me become famous?"
"Simple Raiden, a friend of my sister was telling me that his band needed something new and fresh to add to their sudden revelation. Of course, I recommend you because not only are you sexy, you can beat the drums like you bang on . . ."
"I get the point, no need to go that deep. They probably want some professional drummer, who can actually be worth playing for some cool band, Sora. Why would they hire someone like me?”
"Shut up, you are the greatest drummer I even seen. Besides, I haven't told him that you got a voice of a god also, but we're not focusing on that. Trust me babe, we're going to make you famous . . . in a nick of time."
"I'm afraid . . . did you talk to Ayame about this?"
"Um . . . she's busy with the wedding, don't have time. Hurry up; we're going to be late if you keep dragging like that. Move it whore!"
Slate blue eyes looked through long black bangs at the petite woman who stopped and turned to him, glaring. Sighing, he don't even know why he's doing this. He had better things to do today, like go to the club and drink himself to a coma. Shoving his hands into his pocket, he start fiddling with his keys, making Sora growl and walk away as he slowly followed. Looking around, he never seen a building like this before. N-G was the biggest record company in Japan. He heard that many of his favorite singers worked with N-G and today he's walking through the very grounds they stepped on. He didn't know exactly how Sora got this, but regardless he finally got his wish. Fame and fortune pouring at his feet, but of course he had to become known before he could swim with the fishes. As they both walked side by side down the endless hall, he wondered where they were going. Sora never filled him in on any information and it often ticked him off. Of course, this was Sora . . . he best friend in the world. Turning the corner, they came to the end, seeing giant wooden doors staring at them. Large letters T.S. was engraved into the wood, which made him wonder who the owner of N-G. was. He really never knew because he never paid that much attention.
Coming up to the door, Sora stopped first as she stood in front of the door. Staring at her, he watched as she started fixing her jacket to her two piece suit and her hair. First impression are the best, she always told him making him groan. While she looked all business like, he looked like a bum. Unruly black hair all over the place, not even combed. Baggy jeans hanging half off his ass and a huge t-shirt. Dirty black Converses completely his outfit and a Gucci watch his mother brought him on his twenty-four birthday. He looked like a slut, but of course Sora know how to make him look good in his worst. Watching the petite woman, he wasn't expecting her to do something that ridiculous. Sora clenched her hand into a fist and literally start banging on the door as if she was trying to confront a lover in anger. Groaning, why must she do something embarrassing every time they go out? Hearing someone walking quickly to the door, Sora stopped as the huge wooden door opened. Aquamarine eyes looked inside, but was greeted by the tip of a 9mm Magnum. She stared at it dully then moved her eyes up to the owner. Seeing long blonde hair flow down and piercing blue eyes glaring at her, she just smiled as if the gun did not exist.
"Well, I know Tohma needed protection, but damn . . . he got you? How much did he pay you? One night of freedom or two?" she asked, as the man pulled the slide back on the gun, returning back to aim at her. Sora's slender brow rose, wondering if he knew she wasn't going to back down, she like a deadly challenge.
As blue eyes harden, he wanted to know what her problem is. "Who the hell are you and why were you banging on the door? Speak now or I'll shoot you?" he threaten, making Sora laugh and Raiden's eyes widen. Raiden knew she was crazy, but when she was at gun point, she's insane.
Sora shook her head, raising her hand and placing it on the gun. Holding it, she pushed it to the side as she gave K a wicked smirk. "Oh trust me; I'm not afraid of you or your gun. I've seen worst, trust me I was born and raised in the outskirt of Los Angeles. Try me . . ." she hissed, releasing the gun and pushing K to the side. Stepping inside, Raiden quickly followed her heeled footsteps, apologizing to the man in the process.
As she walked in, she looked around the office, whistling loudly getting every ones attention. Placing her hand on her hips, she nodded in approval. Turning her eyes towards the huge desk that was propped in the middle, she saw cerulean eyes look at her, expecting her to come but slightly marveled. Grinning, she never seen anything like this. Her sister did tell her that he was rich, but damn he turn his office into some grand plaza. Everything was surrounded by glass windows that went from the ceiling to the floor. A huge television was built into the wall as it was surrounded by electronics that would cost her years of pay checks to get. On the other side was a nice little wait area accompanied by a huge leather couch and matching arm chairs. A fancy coffee table was in the middle and matching lamb tables. Beautiful glass lamps rest upon the glass tops, glimmering from the flowing sun light. She was impressed and she should compliment him in his design choice. She knew the president of N-G always had good taste, he was a sophisticated guy.
"Damn Tohma, my sister did tell me you have wonderful taste. I love your design . . . how I should say . . . retro maniac?" she replied, returning her wondering eyes back to the boss as he smiled at her. Oh how she loved his fake smile . . . it makes her want to just pinch him.
Tohma just smiled; absolutely forgotten she was supposed to be coming. Standing up at his desk, he couldn't believe that she could make so much noise for such a little person. He would have to call Noriko to tell her about her sister and her interesting arrival. "I'm glad you like my office, Ukai-san. Haven't you grown into such a beautiful young woman? I haven't seen you since you were a little girl. You didn't change one bit."
Laughing, she placed her hands behind her back, smiling at the man. "Nope, I'm always going to be that same bad ass little girl. And you haven't changed much either . . . eh pimp? So how did you get such fine ass hoes?" she asked, cracking up laughing, making everyone in the room blush, including Tohma.
Clearing his throat, he didn't want to really respond to that so he decided to change the subject. "Oh, you are just like your sister. Anyway, did you enjoy Los Angeles? Noriko called me telling me that you returned back home."
"Yep, I have some unfinished business to take care of. Even though LA is home, I like Tokyo better; I can be with my mom and her new hubby. Did Nori tell you that mom is having a baby . . . woman is producing kids left and right." she said that in English, making Tohma chuckle, leaving the others confused.
Raiden groan as he stepped next to her, making her look up at him, gasping. Seeing she total forgot about him during her reminiscing on the past, she grabbed his arm, pushing him forward. Stumbling, he wondered if she had some death wish for him or something. "Man, I completely forgot. Tohma, this is my best friend Raiden Toshiba. He's like the best drummer in all of Tokyo, you can't find better." she gloated, making Raiden blush. She always did this to him, sometimes she get carried away.
Tohma looked at Raiden, as his brow rose. Raiden groaned once again, knowing that the man was checking out his outfit and he had to make up an excuse for such tacky appeal. "Sorry, I had a gig down at the new club. I didn't get a chance to change my clothes because I was hauled out of there by the devil in Gucci." he replied, earning a smack in the head from her.
"No need to apologize, you look perfectly fine. Anyway, let get down to business. K please put your gun away and come join us because this concerns you also as manager."
Everyone nodded, moving over to Tohma's desk. Raiden tagged behind as he looked at the three people who was sitting there quietly, watching him with hawk eyes. Wondering who they were, he knew they probably was a new band, still fresh with the crowd. Taking inventory, his eyes moved counter clockwise. Seeing a man sitting in a chair, he recognized him as bass player. With the rugged appearance, he knew he probably played hard. Beautiful gray eyes hidden behind long crimson hair that was pulled back. He had this gently feature about him, but also masculine. Moving his eyes to the next one, he notice that he was really young. His eyes moved to his fingers, seeing how perfectly bent they were and he knew he played piano or at least keyboard. Green hair was spiked up as brown eyes were large and glistening. He probably was still in his teens, late teens at least.
But what seem to amaze him was the lead singer. Seeing the man sitting back in the chair, legs spaced apart as hands dangled between them, he was the man's facial expression. He noticed that the man wasn't hot but beautiful, very handsome in his opinion. His expression was emotionless, which meant he been through some stuff and his violet eyes that were cold knew that it wasn't too long ago. Unruly raven hair hung shoulder length against his body, making him wonder if he was Emo. Noticing he was staring too long, he turned away and took a seat as Tohma done the same thing. Sora sat next to him as she grabbed his hand and held it within hers. Looking at her, her eyes were focused on Tohma as he started the meeting.
"Now let's begin," Tohma started as everyone nodded, silently waiting. "As you may know, everyone need change. Bad Luck has been on the winner circle for three years now and with the new improvement placed within the band, I think its time to change the instrumental section. Of course, I'm not saying that I don't like the bass and keyboard. Nakano-san and Fujisaki-san, you two play great, but I think its time to add something more . . . authentic." he stated, making Shuichi sit up straight in the chair, at least catching his attention.
Hiro looked at Tohma, wondering why he decided to change the way they play. It was bad enough when Shuichi changed the format of the music, but adding another instrument, that would make it difficult. "Seguchi-san, why must we change the instrumental part? Both Fujisaki and I are capable of doing everything." he exclaimed as the man nodded, blonde hair moved.
"I know Nakano-san, but I think for the type of music Shindou-san is producing, it needs something more. Like a drummer, just like all the rock bands in America. What do you think? You have the bass, drums, and keyboard. It would bring the band out more? What do you think, Shindou-san?"
Shuichi looked at Tohma in silent, eyes emotionless and hard to tell what he's thinking. Glancing at the guy next to the girl, he wondered if this is who would be there drummer. To him, the guy look like he didn't have any talent and in a way it irked him. "To tell you the truth, I don't care. What ever bring the band up is fine with me. Do what you want." he bluntly told him, no emotion behind his words.
Hiro gasped, wondering if Shuichi was truly out of his mind. "Shuichi, I mean do you really think we need a drummer?"
"Yeah Shindou-san. It's bad enough you're acting this way and now you just want to change the style of your music. Are you doing this because of Yuki-san?" Fujisaki asked as everyone just stopped, including him.
Violet eyes flashed as Shuichi turned to Fujisaki. They were so cold; no one knew that he could actually be this way. "This has nothing to do with him! I don't need to hear any of this from you or anyone. He's happy now, he's engage and he's out of my life. I don't need him, I don't need anyone! Don't ever question me again." he snapped at him, turning his eyes to Tohma as he slowly got up. "I don't care for the drummer, put him with the band. I'm out of here; I can't stand being here any longer. If you're looking for me, I'm in the studio working on some more lyrics. See ya." Full standing, he turned his back and walked away, hands shoved in his pockets.
No one dared to stop him as they watch him walk out of the room, slamming the door behind him. Sora sighed deeply, knowing this wasn’t really going go. “Well, that was a nice way of approval. Are you sure it was a yes and not a ‘go to hell bastards’.”
“I’m very sorry Ukai-san. He’s just been like this for a while; it’s really hard to deal with his emotion like this. He’s very vulnerable, please forgive him.” He apologized as Sora laughed.
“No problem, but did he happen to mention the name Yuki right? He’s not talking about Eiri Yuki, is he?”
Tohma raised a brow, wondering how she know Yuki. “Yes, he’s talking about Eiri Yuki? Do you happen to know him?”
Cracking up laughing, she couldn’t believe this; it was too good to be true. This must have been destiny or she just struck up luck. “Man . . . you are not going to believe this Tohma, but my friend right here . . . his sister is engage to Yuki-kun.”
Everyone gasped as they looked at him. Raiden face flushed seeing all eyes on him again, wondering what the hell he did. Hiro couldn’t believe it; he wanted to know if it was true. “Is it true, is Yuki really going to marry your sister?” he asked, getting a nod from Raiden.
“Yeah . . . sadly I don’t approve of it, but of course I don’t have control of my sister, she’s a grown woman. Why, did something happen between them or something?”
“You don’t watch television much do you?” K said, earning a glare from Sora as he looked at the woman. Grinning, he liked her, she was a challenge.
“For your information whore, Raiden is in college right now and he’s studying a lot. He doesn’t have time to be watching television. Besides, I already know about them two and they finally broke up after all of Japan finally except their homosexuality. Truly, you Japanese people are so homophobic.”
“Well, that’s not the point. The point is that Shuichi just agreed to let Toshiba-san join the band and all we have to do is draw up a contract and everything will be done. Is that alright with you Toshiba-san?”
Raiden nodded, not really listening because his mind returned to the lead singer that was probably sulking. He could feel his emotions perfectly clear; he was hurting but didn’t want anyone else to know. “Yeah, I’m fine with it.”
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
I’ ;ve been looking in the mirror for so long,
That I’ve come to believe my soul’s on the other side.
All the little pieces falling . . . shatter.
Shards of me . . .
Shuichi stared down at his lyrics, wondering what they meant to him. He never felt like this before, he wasn’t use to writing so much. Tapping his pen on the side of the table, he concentrate on the true meaning. Was this some type of cry for help, to reach out to him and let him know how he’s feeling? He don’t know, but just staring down at half finish lyrics wasn’t going to give him a revelation. Bring his pen back to the paper, he begun writing the rest down. In the background, the soft melody of his song filled the air with distress as he listened to the morbid singing of his own voice. It sooth him, helped him get this creative flow. It came easier now since Yuki and him broke up, he felt much at ease. But right now, this wasn’t about Yuki, it was more about him. How he felt about all of this new arrangement. Basically, he didn’t really care as he put it to Tohma. It would be interesting to see how drums would bring the band to life. But what interesting him the most was the drummer Tohma wanted to hire. He never seen anyone like him before and to admit it, he felt some weird connection to him. He couldn’t forget the man’s image. He face was what intrigued him the most.
It was expressionless, but still held softness and awareness. Slate blue eyes that shined within the light that was in the office made him wonder if he was Japanese. Thick, unruly hair was all over the place, giving him the boyish aspect. The way he smiled or nodded, making his hair move in even flows. He couldn’t help but be this observant, he had to. Stop writing, he sighed deeply, hearing a loud knock coming from the studio door. Groaning, he wondered who was interrupting him. Pushing the chair back, he walked to the door, reaching out and turning the handle. Opening the door, he was about to shout, but he paused, seeing the drummer standing there. Raiden looked at Shuichi, knowing he was about to say something rude, but stop himself. Chuckling, he had to stop because he had a message.
“Sorry to bother you Shindou-san, but Seguchi-san wants you to come to studio A and listen to the instrumental part for your newest song.” He told him, seeing Shuichi sigh, nodding. Moving back, the man walked out the room, closing it behind and walked down the hall.
Shuichi didn’t say anything as he walked towards the studio. Wanting to know why Tohma couldn’t wait till tomorrow to nag him about the instrumental part, he just decided to go along. Raiden followed behind him, staring off into space. He felt uncomfortable walking with him, but everyone send him to retrieve him. He don’t understand them at all, it wasn’t hard to tell someone to come on, but they act like they were dealing with Satan or something. He wasn’t that scary, sure he had this cold demeanor but he only guarding what mentality he has left. Shuichi mind wondered off somewhere, as he turned the corner, almost to his destination. He wanted to know more about this person, so why not ask him questions, start interrogating him.
“Hey . . . what’s your name anyways?” he asked, starting with the easy question before crushing him with others.
Raiden snapped out of his world to hear Shuichi ask him a question. “Raiden . . . Raiden Toshiba.” He replied, making Shuichi stop as he stopped also, unsure why they stop.
Hearing the last name, he wondered if it’s possible for him to be related to the girl Yuki’s engage to. “Toshiba . . . are you related to some actress?”
Uneasy, he already was asked that by the others, but he couldn’t lie. His family was famous all over the world and he was on every cover of every magazine you can find. “Yeah . . . she’s my sister.”
Nodding, he started walking again, making Raiden follow once more. “Your sister . . . she’s very beautiful. I’ve seen some of her movies, she got talent.”
“Not really, personally I think she sucks and I’m not even going to discuss any of her photo shots. Seriously, she not that talented, they only want her because she has a pretty face and hot body.” Raiden bluntly said, throwing down his own sister, knowing that he would probably be repenting later at some shrine.
Shuichi chuckled, hearing him speak badly about his own sister. “That’s not nice, she’s trying.”
Raiden grunted as he shook his head. “Everyone in my family is bless with talent, but Ayame, she doesn’t have what it takes to become an actress. She only did it because my father does it. Now, she decided to marry some half bake romance novelist who always have ‘fuck the world’ written on his face. But they belong together, they have no talent.”
Listening, he couldn’t believe that he just insulted Yuki. Hearing someone else saying that his ex-lover doesn’t have talent made him feel little better. “I see . . . so you think Yuki-san doesn’t have any talent in writing. Does that make you an expert?”
Stopping, Raiden haven’t thought about that. Shuichi stopped also noticing that he wasn’t following him any more. Turning around, he stared at the man watching him have this blank expression on his face. Wondering what he was thinking, it probably is good. “Actually, it does. What Yuki-san write is all false. There is no such thing as romance, in my opinion. Love is such a confusing word, no one knows how to use it. Have you ever read an Eiri Yuki novel? All the nonchalant crap he put in there, it makes you wonder if he even experience anything. To me, to write a great story you have to at least experience such heartache and love to write one. Now if I told my sister that, she would beat the shit out of me with one of his novels.”
“You really think his novels are that bad?”
“Yeah and trust me I’ve read better. Like lyrics, now he could never understand the true passion within lyrics. Sure they are poetry, but that what bring out your story. Poetry can tell anything, any aspect of your life that you want to keep concealed. For me, I enjoy writing poetry because it helps me forget all I’ve gone through, release all the lingering anger I felt.”
“You know . . . you are very expressive. You are the first person I ever met that speaks so passionately about certain things.” Shuichi complimented him, seeing his face turn red for probably embarrassment.
Raiden cleared his throat, smiling. “I’m not really all that great and passionate. I just tell it like it is. Maybe you should try not to remember so much pain that you dealt with when you were with Yuki. All the pain you consume will only bring you down. It will take you to a place of no return and eternal darkness.”
“What are you talking about?”
“I’m just saying that you are expressing so much pain that its visible. Your boss and band mates may not see it, but I can. You are easy to read . . . like a book.”
“Whatever, I don’t know what you are talking about. I’m over Yuki, I move on.”
Raiden shook his head as he slowly approached Shuichi. Coming close to him, he stared into the man’s eyes, searching deeply into his orbs. Faintly smiling, he knew he was lying. “Then why do I see him within your eyes?”
TBC
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Author’s Note: That’s it! A cliffhanger and you have to wait till the next chapter to see what’s going to happen. Man, Raiden is all psychic and stuff. He reading Shuichi like a book, making him all vulnerable. Interesting, I wonder what’s going to happen next. Just wait and see, I promise you it’s going to be good. We get to see Shuichi actually having an intellectual conversation with Raiden. Will sparks fly or slowly die?
Next Chapter: Reminiscing.
Tears that refuse to flow come pouring down to the earth . . .
This is absolute pain I haven’t felt before . . .
Enchantment is the name . . . and revealing is its game. . .