Cause and Effect (( |WW| & StainedCrimson )) Private|18+

[|WW|]

Cause and Effect

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Private Rp | 18+

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Name:

Cameron V. Gold.

Age:

8

Hair color:

Dark brown

Eye color:

Hazel

Personality & Bio:

Bright, attentive and friendly. He's a quick learner and always curious.

Surrounded by many luxurious things he remains humble, not ever asking for more than what's given to him. He has a love for board games and reading which feeds his need to learn new things. When born, his mother passed on; so his memories of her are non-existent. His Father is an accomplished Business Owner and often leaves for months at a time;leaving his sons care in the hands of hired staff and a personal friend from his company.Cameron tends to enjoy being alone, but does not lack friendships if he desires them. In all he is a well-mannered boy with much potential and a very driving spirit.

 

 

 

 

The grandfather clock chimed six in the confines of the dining room. Supper was pleasant enough, as always; save for the questionable greens he always managed to force down last. He used to hide them in his napkin and toss them after the meal, but when they started questioning where all the missing cloth napkins were- well he was busted accordingly. Being only eight he found quite a few things still not to his taste, but his Father had stressed the importance of a balanced diet; even if Cameron disagreed as any child would at the age of eight.

Scooting out his chair he excused himself quietly, though no one was there to answer. Walking out into the main foyer he glanced at the door, soft hazel eyes peered out from behind thin lenses perched upon his nose. He was told company would be arriving this evening, but with it already past six he wondered if perhaps things fell through. His Father would be home within the week, after having been gone for nearly two months this time. He'd gotten used to it at a very early age. When the man of the house was gone, he was to behave. That's all he ever heard from the staff or family. And so he did; for the most part.

 

Walking to the main steps he sunk onto the third-to-bottom row, planting his chin in hands, frowning at the door. He wasn't unhappy, just bored for some reason. The weather was stormy and he'd been stuck inside for for two days. There was plenty to keep busy with indoors, but he did prefer to take activities outside opposed to being cooped up.

 

Chocolate-colored hair dangled within his view as he shifted his head to the side, looking around at the many pictures decorating the large room. A portrait of his mother rested on one wall, her smile soft and kind. He had no memory of her since she'd died when he was born, but he was sure by what pictures he saw of her she'd been a wonderful lady. The occasional pang that he should feel something more towards this person did happen, but that was all there was. Pining for a ghost was foolish, as his Father had often said.

 

"Cameron?" A singsong voice broke him from his thoughts. His head tilted and took in the woman who'd called him. She was a live-in nanny of sorts. A middle young woman with long red hair and a soft sprinkle of freckles across her nose and cheeks. Vivid green eyes smiled long before her lips. He liked this one. Even if she was a replacement for the other middle-aged one who had fallen ill.

 

"Would you like to play a game tonight?" She asked, wringing her hands in a nervous gesture. He grinned slightly and nodded. "Yeah, after the visit maybe?" He looked hopeful. She looked towards the door, then back to him; her expression unsure. "I haven't gotten any calls yet, perhaps he can't make it because of the weather?" Cameron wrinkled his nose. "That's a bad excuse," he answered, a pout forming over his mouth while his cheeks puffed out befitting a young frustrated boy.

[StainedCrimson]

 

 

Name: Ryuuchi Shinka

Age: 24

Hair Color: Black

Eye Color: Blue

 

Personality & Bio:

A touch reserved and polite, mostly due to his upbringing and heritage, he's none the less sharp and quick. Having been top of his class from when he started all through university, being second rate is not something he ever considers himself to be. Having been one to be particular about who he calls friends, though welcoming of all associates since they might be of use at some point, he stays loyal to the ones he does accept. One friend in particular, who despite having made a foolish mistake early on, he's stayed close to and even works with. As time went on he started to help watch over and raise the son of his friend.

 

 

A long low sigh is heard as a figure stares out from the company's parking garage. "Well now... This is most troublesome. I'm not only going to miss dinner but I might miss making it before bed time at this rate." Arms crossed with a look of mild disapproval, a figure looks out at the storm standing next to a sleek and powerful looking motorcycle. But for all of its power it is useless in nature's wake.

 

A finger strokes almost lovingly down the slope of the bike to the seat. "Well my friend, it looks like I'll have to leave you here and take one of his cars instead. Provided he left one here of course." The paint reflects the lightning, but despite its silence almost seems as if its sulking at not being ridden out. "I know, but I'll come back for you soon." With a light patting stroke, the figure gathers up the visored helmet and bag then strides off into the garage.

 

Shortly after a rumbling sound is heard as a car pulls out with the same figure as before behind the wheel. Shifting quickly and smoothly, the male heads for the place that is almost like a second home for him by this point. "Hopefully I get there before they send him off to bed or else I'll get scolded in the morning." Chuckling the man speeds up and makes fast time towards his destination.

 

Once there the car is quickly parked and he is on his way into the large house, if it could even be counted as a house, towards where the expectant host should be waiting if he hasn't given up by this point. Knocking before entering, he looks for the person that he rushed all this way over. Spotting that person a small grin appears across his face. "So you're still up, eh brat?" He teases going over to the small boy to ruffle his hair, though mindful of the glasses perched on the edge of the child's nose.

[|WW|]

He'd resigned himself to a game, having waited until nearly seven. He chose an easier one though, as his new nanny didn't quite get the gist of chess; and he didn't feel in the mood to challenge a weak opponent. Not that he was superb or anything; but beating up on a newbie was not fun. They'd moved to the lounge for this game, which was another large room opposite of the dining room. It was used mostly for entertaining guests when his Father was home and had company, but Cameron liked the leather chairs and often found himself curled up in them reading or playing games as they were now.

 

Hearing the front door close loudly he nearly knocked the whole board over sliding out of the large chair. "Oh, Cameron are you alright?" The woman grabbed the board before it fell, rescuing most of the small dice from falling. She sputtered as the youth took off without a reply. He was obviously just fine even after kneeing the table and game. "Uncle Ryuuuu," the boy cried running out of the room and down the hall. He skid to a stop right near the bottom of the steps, grinning as the mans hand ruffled his soft mop of unruly hair. "I'm not a brat. And you, are wet," he commented, looking down to see the small streaks of water the shoes had left behind.

 

Shining hazel eyes peered up at the man, admiration and excitement apparent within them. Ryuuchi was his Father's friend, and had been around all his young life. Though they weren't related by marriage or blood, cameron had grown up calling him uncle all the same. "I was playing a game with," he paused, thinking, "Clara." He'd obviously forgotten her name for a moment. Names always gave him a bit of a hassle. She was new after all. It would need time to sink in. "Are you staying over tonight? Please say you can?" He shifted his weight foot to foot, unable to stay still. His hands had grabbed at Ryu's wrist, holding it between his smaller grip.

[StainedCrimson]

Chuckling at the exuberant greeting, he kneels down to be more level with the young child. "Yes, yes... Sadly being wet is the price I pay for having braved the storm to come here to see this little bouncing ball of a brat. Couldn't even ride my bike here like I wanted to maybe bribe him with a ride if he behaved. I suppose he'll just have to wait until next time hmm?" Giving a dramatic sigh, Ryuuchi stands up against with a grin.

 

Seeing his friend's kid bouncing around while begging him stay over finally makes him laugh. "Stay over? Well... I suppose I could stay the night. Just this once though and don't go telling your dad." He gives Cameron a playful wink before scooping up the child to carry him back to where he'd come running out of. Entering the room he gives the new nanny a slow look over before noticing the game that was being played. "Poor Cam-chan... No chess tonight? No wonder you were so excited to see me. It's not because you missed me it's because you were bored wasn't it? No love for your uncle Ryuu at all." In a dramatic gasp, Ryuuchi grabs his heart while dropping the eight year old on the couch.

 

Slowly and in an obviously dramatic fashion, he opens an eye to look down at his little charge. Soon a smile appears and he starts to laugh before pulling Cameron to him and squeezing him tightly. "Alright now. We can either play a game of chess before we send you off to bed or we can lay down and watch a movie."

[|WW|]

Cameron grinned as the man dropped to his level. He released the wrist only when he felt the connection between them closer. "Ehh? No bike?" The thought of Ryu being without his bike was almost unthinkable. If he didn't know any better, he would have thought the Male's butt was glued to that machines seat. It was just hard to see one without the other. Can't be helped if the rain decided to spoil the fun. He'd get a chance to ride it soon enough. "Well, okay," he answered, only mildly producing a pout.

 

As soon as he got the OK on staying over, the boy brightened like he were the star atop the family christmas tree. "Yes! No, no I won't tell. Pinky swear!" He stuck out his tiny little digit, hooking it with ryu's in a pact between men, heh. With a small laugh he's scooped up, his legs kicking for a second until he feels he isn't going to tumble. He couldn't believe his uncle was staying over. He'd asked so many times before only to have the no-go, so why now?

 

"Maybe I did, maybe I didn't," he answered to the chess ordeal, making a noise of surprise as his small body bounced onto the couch, grabbing the arm so he didn't roll right off the furnishing. No love for Ryu would be impossible. The kid adored this man, and it was more than clear to anyone- including Ryuuchi himself. Cam shuffled around and sat up, gazing curious eyes up at the dramatic play of his uncle. When both pairs of eyes met he smirked, and crossed his arms. "You know I'm going to pick a movie," he stated as though the adult should have known better to ask such a silly thing.

[StainedCrimson]

He knows that it's extremely out of the norm for him to agree to stay, but with how inconsiderate his friend is being to Cam as of late well... Even he isn't cold-hearted enough to not give the kid a little something now and then. Not too mention going to an empty home all wet doesn't hold much appeal. Though not that it'd be very possible to go home on his bike in this weather and that'd be the only way he'll go home.

 

Laughing at the boy having clearly seen through his little dramatics, though just for Cam does he do them, he grins down at the smirking boy. "Is that so? Well then, pardon me for thinking you'd want to play with your unloved uncle Ryuu for a bit first." He teases lightly tugging Cam's nose. "But a movie it is. Go get changed and brush your teeth and then we'll pick out a movie."

 

With a small smile he lightly cuffs the boys head affectionately before nudging him to head off and change. Once Cam is is off doing as he was told, he goes to the room set aside for his use to get changed himself. Taking off his jacket and shirt, tossing them aside on a nearby chair, he pulls open a drawer to pull out lounge pants and a shirt then finishes changing. Once done he goes to fetch his little charge, assuming Cam hasn't already come rushing to grab him that is. The thought alone makes him laugh to himself.

[|WW|]

Cam was wiggling on the couch as though the seat were on fire. He really was starved for attention, despite being in such an elaborate household. These visits were like the very air he breathed. He needed this contact, and he devoured every moment much like a bag of candy would be if so presented. "Kay!," he responded and slid off the couch, taking off towards the door. He stopped though, and cast a look over his shoulder. "We can still play, I mean, later if you want. Or something." He felt like maybe Ryu might have wanted to play, so the fact he'd chosen a movie may have stumped that. In his way, he was apologizing. Pushing the glasses back up his nose, he nodded and left the room.

 

Cam rushed up the steps and found himself hunting down Clara who'd retired to her room while he spent time with his uncle. She helped him find some fresh sleep clothes, and even scolded him when he realized he was supposed to take a bath. Who wanted to take a bath when they took a shower just that morning? He promised her full cooperation the following night and she left, somewhat convinced.

 

Sadly it took a bit longer than expected, and by the time he was leaving his room, he managed to meet Ryu in the hallway. Cameron wrung his hands, the soft flannel shirt and pants a tad too big for him yet. He'd been growing a lot, and was sort of stuck between sizes. The glasses he wore always seemed to slide down his nose about halfway so he poked them back up out of habit. "All set. You can pick tonight," he allowed his uncle the pleasure of choosing for the evening.

 

[StainedCrimson]

"Why thank you Cam-chan. That's so thoughtful of you..." Ryuuchi replies fighting back the smile that threatens to appear on his face. Honestly, the kid is adorable but so sad at the same time. It's hard not to pity him due to his father's neglect towards him and then being so eager for any real form of attention or affection. A soft affectionate smile crosses his face finally while picking up the small boy. "Well then, let's go look at what's available and see if something can't catch our eye hmm?"

 

Going into the movie room, he starts to flip through the options on the screen, sticking to movie's that are of course appropriate for Cam's age. "Hmm, about this one?" He points to one of the new ones that had come out recently. It's not something he himself cares for, but is sure that Cam will like that. Choosing it to get it started, he settles them onto the couch and pulls a blanket over them.

 

Settling down for what he's sure is going to be a mind-numbing movie for him, tolerable only by Cam's reactions to it, he watches the movie start while letting the small boy stay on his lap. Glancing down at the small child of his closest friend, he can't help the small flame of anger that's been rising more and more lately at the callous way his friend treats Cam. Shifting his gaze back to the movie, though he doesn't really see it, the thought that's been circling round and round his head more often as of late takes a tighter hold on him.

 

What if.... Just what if... What if Cam was to stay with him when his father went away?

[|WW|]

Being picked up again he slides his arms around Ryu's neck, lightly playing with the longer black strands of hair. He sometimes wished his hair was just as dark. He also admired the brilliant blue eyes as to his which were brown just like his Father's. He sometimes wondered what it would have been like if Ryuuchi was his real Father. Would he have pretty eyes too? Would he grow tall and handsome? As a kid he was of course curious about these strange things; a child's imagination just couldn't be contained.

 

The movie room was small, dark and comfortable. All the things you needed to have your very own theater at home. The screen stretched across the wall and made viewing in the dark space very enjoyable. Not to mention the surround sound was excellent. His Father spared no expense for things like this; even if he wasn't around to enjoy them with his own son. When Ryu picked an animated movie he hadn't seen, the boy of course nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah, that one!" He was waiting on the couch, having been put down so Ryu could gets things rolling.

 

When the movie started Cameron automatically crawled into his Uncles lap, allowing the blanket to be adjusted over them. Being a high-energy source he moved about a bit, but was careful not to bounce of elbow his Uncle in the excitement of the movie. It was a very humorous troupe of characters, and Cameron squealed in laughter at one point, pointing to the screen and casting a side-long glance to his Uncle.

 

"Did you see it!? They walked right past the trap. That was really lucky!" He leaned back, his back nestling itself against his Uncle's chest where he could faintly feel the beat of a heart. It was warm, and comforting. His head laid back to rest against a shoulder as the movie progressed. Closer to the ending his lashes had begun fluttering downwards, fighting the need to close. He'd stopped commenting or laughing also. His glasses had managed to droop down his little nose. Though full of energy at one point, the lull of being near someone dear had tossed to boy into a comfort zone- and with that came the pull towards sleep. His face turned into Ryu's collarbone and the eyes that had been open were now closed, his breath even.

[StainedCrimson]

When Cam would point out or comment on something, Ryuuchi would look and nod with a small smile while keeping an arm around the small boy to keep him from moving too much and falling off the couch. Once the eight year-old falls asleep, the elder male laughs softly and shifts his hold before standing up, cradling the small form to his chest. Quickly shutting things down he makes his way to the boy's room to put him to bed for the night.

 

Once Cam is under the covers, glasses on the night stand by the bed, Ryuuchi smooths the soft brown strands out Cam's face before slipping out of the room. Closing the door he sighs, one hand rubbing the back of his neck while walking towards his own room. After entering, he pulls out his laptop and starts on some work before calling it a night himself. Slowly the quick typing slows before finally stopping as the earlier thought comes back.

 

Staring, but not seeing, at the screen he thinks the thought over some more slowly. Surely his friend would agree to it wouldn't he? After all, the boy would be much happier and at ease with his father's absence if he is with someone he knows instead of being all alone months at a time. Since you really couldn't consider that nanny to be good company, especially the new one who knew next to nothing about her charge.

 

A finger taps in thought on the keyboard. When some time passes, Ryuuchi's head nods slowly. Yes. He will bring this prospect up to his friend. It would be no trouble to watch little Cam and it'd be easy enough to shift his schedule around and work from home when he has the small boy. And he likes being around the energetic yet well-mannered child. With a small smile he settles the matter in his mind and puts his things away before going to bed.

 

Waking early, as per normal for him, he heads down to the breakfast area to get some coffee and a light breakfast while waiting for Cam to wake up. Taking a sip he wonders if Cam has any school today. If not then maybe he can take the boy out for a bit.

[|WW|]

When cameron woke, he yawned wide and comically flopped over while dragging a pillow over his messy brown mop. He wasn't good at waking up and often had to be coerced. Sun poured in through the large windows as his nanny yanked the curtains aside, tucking them in the holders on either side to stay open. Cam groaned and burrowed deeper into the mass of pillows and cottony sheets. Today would have been a school day, but it was a teacher-prep day and no students would be attending. So why was it he was being woken up so early?

 

"Cameron, Mr Ryuuchi is downstairs eating breakfast. Wouldn't you like to join him?" The woman asked, sitting on the bed to lightly tug at the pillows until she found the boy buried beneath. Sleep hazels peered up at the red-head, before they widened. "Oh! he spent the night. I fell asleep," he exclaimed, sitting up to grab at the table for his glasses. "We didn't get to play chess." He muttered a bit more, unfolding and sliding the thin lenses onto his nose, adjusting them as he slid out of bed and wobbled off to the restroom.

 

After washing his face, brushing teeth and the basics were out of the way; he wandered back in the main room to find clothes laid out. Khaki's, a nice collared shirt and a blazer; the appropriate socks and laced shoes laying on the floor close by. He wrinkled his nose at the blazer but knew it was all so he could look well kept. His Father always expressed how important looking sharp was, even on days off. He dressed and tied the laces somewhat messy, but figured they'd be covered anyways so it wasn't a dire subject. Taking one look in the long mirror on his wall to make sure things were in order, he then left the bedroom and went to join his uncle.

 

"Morning Uncle," the boy chimed as he walked through the dining room door, adjusting the watch on his small wrist. It had been a gift from Ryu and he rarely forgot to wear it. Sinking into his seat at the table he waited for a moment before the cook himself wandered out and set down a fresh plate of breakfast in front of the hungry boy. He grinned at the older bearded man, taking a long drink of orange juice. "Yum, thank you Mr Detree," he chirped accepting a pat on the head from the man before he left to return to the kitchen. Eggs sunny-side up, hashbrowns, bacon and a cream cheese muffin all waited for cameron, nice and hot too. He wasted no time digging in, talking between bites but not with a mouthfull- that was bad manners. Even if crumbs escaped him here and there, that was expected.

 

"I fell asleep before we could play last night. I'm sorry," he took another bite, thinking. "Can we go get your bike today? Are you able to stay?" He looked hopeful as his gaze stayed glued to his Uncle and not his plate. "If it's at the company, do we... need to stop and greet Father?" He said that with such a neutral tone it was almost sad.

[StainedCrimson]

Looking up hearing the greeting, he has to stifle a chuckle at the sight of the slightly messy child. "Good morning Cam-chan. Did you sleep well?" He asks with a faint smile while watching Cameron sit down and eat his food. Setting aside the paper he focuses on the boy eating listening to the words coming out in quick succession. Chuckling he takes a drink of his coffee. "Easy there. One question at a time."

 

Setting the cup down he looks at the suddenly placid boy who had been so energetic just moments before. "You're father isn't back yet so no, we won't be greeting him today." He says softly in an almost consoling tone before a corner of his mouth quirks up. "But we do need to take your father's car back so I can get my bike. It's not very happy about having been left there you know. So you should hurry up and get ready so we can go pick it up." Ryuuchi teases lightly to try and distract the boy a bit with something much more interesting and fun.

 

Leaning back into his chair and drinking some more of the coffee before it gets cold, he continues. "I can stay for a part of today, but I have a meeting this afternoon so I can't stay all day." Locking eyes with the boy who calls him uncle, he smirks while continuing. "However, if you behave yourself then I'll come back and we can have dinner together provided the meeting doesn't go late. Even if it does I'll at least come by and say good night. Does that sound good to you?"

 

Keeping his internal thoughts hidden, Ryuuchi's hidden hand clenches in anger. Not at the boy, no... It's very unlikely little Cameron could ever move the man to anger. This anger is aimed at the boy's father, his friend. What kind of father is the man to his son to where there's no inflection of affection or happiness at the thought of seeing him? This just strengthens the resolve of pushing his friend to letting him have Cameron stay with him instead of alone in the house when leaving for work.

 

Snapping back to focus on the person taking up most of his thoughts, he gives a slightly forced smile. "Well? You about done? Take much longer and I just might wander off without you." He teases just to see the boy get worked up and excited.

[|WW|]

"I slept pretty good, I think." Cameron nodded hearing they wouldn't be greeting his Father. It's not so much that he hated the man, no the boy had not really reached a point in his life where he could understand true hatred. But he often wondered why the man was so busy...all the time. When he was a baby his Father was around a lot, and from what the family had told him- he was a good Father. Cameron had everything he needed, money, people to take care of him, and lots of friends at school. So why was it he often felt empty. Like none of those things were nearly as important as just getting to know this elusive man. Did the boy do something that was displeasing? He just couldn't understand it, no matter how many times he tried. But thus was his life, and he was resined to it- for the most part. He had Ryuuchi after all.

 

"That's longer than usual," he admitted, realizing his Uncle was taking time out of his own busy schedule to spend time with him. That was what a Father should do. "Okay, deal. I'll be on my best behavior. Then we can play chess. I've gotten better, so you'd better be careful." A small warning was given, teasing in nature. It seems he'd at least practiced and deemed himself better. Finishing off most of his plate he listened, washing things down with a second glass of orange juice. He always had two for some reason. He liked the juice a lot, and apple too.

 

At the threat of being left behind he gulped his juice down, grabbing his napkin to mop at the wet lips after. "Done," he chirped, pushing his chair out after. He stood up and laid his napkin on the table, pushing his dish and glasses together so they could be collected. Hurrying out of the dining room he went to the hall closet, rooting around for his coat and a small messenger bag he always carried with him containing random things to keep him occupied when needed. Books, a psp, some paper and color pencils and a book of crossword puzzles. Winding a small scarf around his throat to keep out the chill of autumn he presented himself in the main hall, all but bouncing. "Ready! Let's go get your baby," he grinned when saying this, knowing the bike was indeed precious.

[StainedCrimson]

Ryuuchi laughs at Cameron's eagerness and boasting about his skills in chess. "Oh? Well then, I'll have to watch yourself. Tell you what, the day you manage to beat me I'll teach you an even more challenging game than your chess. The chess I grew up with is a lot harder." Winking and ruffling the boy's hair playfully, he goes to gather his things and put on shoes and coat.

 

Laughing louder at the mention of his bike being called his "baby" by the boy is due to surprise but also feeling pleased. "Yes, I suppose it is my baby isn't it? And like a good parent I'm going to pick it up and make sure my baby isn't too mad at me for leaving it in a cold dark place over night. Now hurry up or else you'll miss out on a ride." He teases with another affectionate smile while slinging the specially made bag over one shoulder. It's designed just for motorcycle riding.

 

Once Cameron is ready he settles the boy in the car before taking off to the office. "Now then, since we have some time before my meeting, how about we go out for lunch and maybe visit a park for a bit hmm?" He glances over at the little passenger with a grin. While it's odd to the child that he's spending so much time with him now, Ryuuchi used to be there a lot when he was too young to remember to. He helped Cameron's father when his mother has died during childbirth and was there from the beginning to help take care of not only the newborn, but the nearly distraught father as well.

 

Thinking back on it causes his jaw to tick a bit, as well as cause some feelings of guilt. While still a somewhat regular presence in the boy's life it's not nearly as much as it could be. It almost feels as if he's abandoned the other or been just a little less neglectful than the actual father. Realizing they're at the parking area, he forces himself to focus on the here and now while parking the car and putting the keys where they belonged.

 

"Alright brat, ready to go?" He grins at the small innocent child while tossing his key for the bike up and down.

[|WW|]

"Harder than chess?" He looked a bit skeptical to that idea. His lips pursed slightly as he thought it over. He'd do his best, but seeing as he usually got clobbered at chess; he could pretty much assume this new game was years off. Ah well, he could at least do his best. There wasn't any rush after all. Ryuuchi wasn't going anywhere. "Well, okay, I'm interested," he admitted.

 

He joined in on the laughter about the 'baby' bike, knowing what he'd said was more than accurate. He remembered when Ryu had first got that bike. To think that he would ever leave it at all was hard to believe. Following his Uncle to the car he slid in the passenger side, claiming shot gun since he rarely got to be up front. His driver for school always sat him in the back, and he didn't much care for it. Tinted windows and a quiet drive. He needed to talk and feel like he was part of something. Not like he was some precious jewel.

 

"Lunch sounds good." He clicked his belt in place and sat his bag between his feet, peering out the window and up towards the sky. "It's not going to rain again, is it?" It seemed pretty clear besides all the clouds, but the sun was trying to peek out every so often. The clouds were a nice white and not dark colored, so he could assume no rain was coming their way. "Oh, the park? Yeah! I bet some friends will be there too. Can we show them the bike, please?" He'd never shown his friends anything quite as cool as his Uncle's bike. Wouldn't they be thrilled? Well, if they were there anyway. The thought made him eager to show-off a touch. Boys will be boys.

 

Getting his Uncle to roll the window down, he stuck his face to the wind and watched as the city flew by. He'd seen it so many times, but not often from the front and while on the move. He poked the bridge of his glasses, holding them so they didn't tumble off. His dark brown locks flapped around making a bit more of a mess to his already unruly style. Glancing over his shoulder at his Uncle he wondered what it was like being able to drive cars and bikes. To be working in a big company and being friends with the Owner. Did he like doing his work? What exactly did he do anyway? He didn't talk much about it, neither did his Father to be honest. He'd always wanted to ask questions, but somehow the thought of troubling his Uncle with silly questions had always stopped him.

 

When they arrived he was already grabbing his bag, tugging it up into his lap. His Uncle's bike came into view and Cameron wiggled in his seat excited. He loved the bike a lot. It was scary the first time he'd rode on it, and he clung to Ryu like a fly to fly-paper. But now he liked it a lot and even had his own special helmet that fit his smaller head. When the car stopped he grinned wide, answering his Uncle's like a mirror. "Yeah!"

 

[StainedCrimson]

When Cameron asks about showing his friends the bike, he [Ryuuchi] can't help but to laugh. "Well how else are we going to get there? I can't leave my bike again after all." He teases while giving the excited boy a light playful cuff to the head. After having taken care of the car and gotten his young passenger suitably excited, he gets the special helmet and straps ready.

 

It took a good bit of time, money, and convincing for his friend to let little Cameron ride his bike. Even now Ryuuchi keeps the rides quiet and doesn't bring it up to avoid causing his friend to lose his temper over it. Once the straps are set he puts the helmet on Cameron's head and then makes sure the boy's bag is tight and held in place before getting on the bike. Once on he helps the young boy onto the bike and then finishes straps so Cameron will be held in place but not overly restricted. That taken care of he puts on his own glasses for riding before starting up the bike filling the parking garage with the deep growling rumble of the powerful machine.

 

"Alright Cam-chan, make sure your glasses are on secure and hold on tight!" He looks over his shoulder grinning before leaning forward to hold onto the handles and turns the bike before revving it. Glancing back once more, the grin still dominating a good portion of his face, he lets the bike go causing it to surge forward as if it'd been impatient waiting to be freed to go. Soon they're speeding out of the garage and flying along the roads towards the park.

 

Unlike with Cameron, he doesn't wear a helmet. He enjoys the freedom of the wind hitting his face and sending his hair flying all around him. Unlike when he's on his own however, Ryuuchi doesn't go as fast or pull the same dangerous stunts he normally does to dodge through traffic or have fun with corners. Still, he goes fairly fast and just so the boy can have something to brag about, pulls into the park doing a wheelie and comes to a stop right infront of the main gathering of people.

 

"Here we are. Still got everything?" He asks chuckling while undoing the safety harness to let the boy down. Once off he takes the helmet and parks his bike carefully, making sure there's no one else near it, then shuts if off and gets off to join Cameron.

[|WW|]

"Well yeah I know that much goof!" He laughed hearing the bike show-off was a go. "I was just asking if it was okay, because asking is polite." He sniffed once in a comical way, raising his chin in a display of hilarious child-like superiority. Though he'd meant to be a bit of a smaty-pants, it just ended up looking funny. All but dancing over to the bike he waited, hopping from foot to foot while swinging his bag around on it's long strap. Once the helmet was adjusted he tugged it down over his head, reaching up to bop the top of the round material so it was fully clamped around his head. He worked at making his bags strap short so it would hug around him tightly for the ride.

 

Being helped on he wiggled back a bit, lifting his arms a bit so not to be in the way of the harness Ryu had to adjust on his smaller frame. He grinned happily, now strapped in place and awaiting the thrill of his Uncle's driving. His hearth thumped faster just thinking about it, and would race when they took off. When they were both settled and his Uncle spoke he tugged his glasses off, shoving them in his pocket. He just didn't want to deal with them, and he could see still - just not quite as clear. Everything would be a blur half the time anyways so there was little point in losing his frames to the wind. He shoved his hand out to the side and gave the thumbs up before coiling his arms around Ryu's waist, leaning into him like he'd been taught. Since he was smaller it was easier to control when he was close and not further back like experienced passengers. Ryu spun them around and the boy cried out on cue, "check, check, Go!"

 

He squealed out as they took off, the sound of the bike echoing through the garage all around them. Holding on tight he laughed as they shot out into traffic, watching the things around them pass by one by one. The ride was smooth and exciting as always. Being glued to his Uncle's back he occasionally got a full whiff of whatever the older was wearing, whether it was cologne or body spray- or soap? It smelled good whatever it was and he wondered why he couldn't wear things like that. He liked the scent a lot, it was a lot different than fresh cotton or some floral arrangement.

 

When they arrived at the park he squeezed Ryu's waist a bit harder when one wheel lifted leaving them on the one remaining. That one trick tended to send his heart sputtering to catch up. When they bounced back down and got the attention of nearly everyone at the entrance, his face flamed bright red and he buried his head at his Uncle's back, mumbling something about overkill. It was cool though, really cool. Adults were scary.

"Y-yeah," he answered to the question of everything still being in tact, peeking out from the coat. Being let out of the harness was next, and popping the helmet off his head to show off his hopeless hair, he grinned and wobbled off into the parks entrance. He could feel a few pairs of eyes on him, but he tried to remain calm and collected after that showy display. Spotting a pair of boys near the swings he brightened immediately and took off in their direction. Seems some of is friend were around.

[StainedCrimson]

Hearing the mumbled comment about overkill has the man laughing while getting off the bike. "No little Cam-chan, overkill would have been doing a spinning wheelie on the front tire and sliding into the parking spot like that." He grins only partially teasing. After all, he has done it before and could have again even with the little passenger on it. That would have just been a bit much even for his little thrill-seeking partner.

 

Keeping an eye on Cameron as he runs off to join his friends, he saunters over to a bench where he can keep an eye on the boy but not be overbearing with his presence. Reaching into his bag he pulls out his reader and starts it up. While he could actually pull out some work to do, enjoying the day relaxing before his meeting holds more appeal. Not too mention he'd rather not pull work out when spending time with little guy.

 

Looking back over to make sure said boy is doing before settling back to read. Though his attention doesn't stay on the book long. Slowly the book is lowered as he watches, though unseeing, Cameron's interactions with his friends as his thoughts go back to what he'd been thinking of last night and this morning. "He had better come back soon. Although I have a feeling he's not going to like my suggestion. Not one bit." A slightly twisted smile crosses his face as he thinks about the reaction he'll get. "No. He'll definitely not like it." A long soft sigh is released as the book lays forgotten in his lap.

[|WW|]

The boy took turns swinging, laughing when one of his friends launched himself off the swing and rolled into the grass upon landing. He didn't much care for heights, so he wouldn't be launching himself anywhere. But, he did swing pretty high and enjoyed the wind in his face. After a contest on who could swing the highest, cameron pulled his two skeptical friends off to the jungle-gym which served as a secret fort. He slid his psp out and clicked it on, explaining a secret he'd found in one of his games which he was sure the others hadn't discovered yet. Looking up he glanced in his Uncle's direction, waving once when he saw the older was watching.

 

After a good hour of play he drug his friends off to see the bike, as originally intended. The two boys eye'd the machine curiously as cameron took his helmet off the seat and presented it with a grin. "My Uncle bought this for me. Isn't it great?" It was black with a yellow stripe, reminding him of a bumble bee. One of the boys took the helmet and stuck it over their head, posing stupidly while they all laughed in unison. "He drives really good. You should see him with no passenger. He's really fast, and really cool. And on the weekends he's got this awesome leather outfit that's all black, like some sort of super hero!" He boasted, thinking the whole get-up was just really grown-up and cool.

 

When his Uncle joined them he grinned, nudging himself up against Ryu's side with a poke to his stomach. "This is Ryuuchi guys," he announced proudly. "He's wicked at video games, and chess too! And ..and um," he stumbled, realizing he was about to keep going on and on. His cheeks flushed slightly and he poked the glasses up his nose. "So.. yeah." He wasn't sure what else to say. The two boys eye'd the older man then the bike. They seemed in some form of awe, because their expressions were lax with the mouth hanging a bit open.

[StainedCrimson]

Ryuuchi chuckles and ruffles Cameron's hair. "Hey now, I don't know about all that but if you say so I guess I can't be too bad huh?" Laughing softly he turns to smirk at the two friends gaping at them. "Well, it was nice meeting you but we have to get going now. Say bye to your friends Cam." Looking down at the small boy he gives him a light push while heading over to the bike to get on and put up the kickstand before getting the harness ready for Cameron to put on again.

 

Once it's ready he looks over at the eight year-olds while pushing on his riding glasses, of which he should get Cam a pair since eye protection is a law requirement to be on a bike. "Alright, ready to get going?" He asks grinning from on top his bike, looking for all the world like he's at home on the large beast. When Cameron gets close enough he helps the boy up and in the harness. "Until next time..." He smirks down at the friends still gaping at them, giving a two fingered salute before starting the bike and takes off back to the large house his passenger calls home.

 

Once back at the large, and most likely empty house, he turns off the bike and helps the other off. "Now then, I think it's time to eat. What do you think?" He grins down at the little boy before picking him and tossing him over his shoulder as he strides into the house, the other hand holding his own bag. "Let's hope we're not late or else we'll get scolded by the cook." Ryuuchi says cheerfully while the hand holding the boy-turned-sack tickles his ribs a bit while walking to the dining area.

[|WW|]

Since it was friday he wouldn't be seeing the boys till Monday most likely. These two lived away from him quite a ways. He nodded, taking his helmet back from the shorter of two. "Okay, I guess I'll see you guys monday then," he hid the small frown, trying to turn it into a smile instead. He still had his Uncle with him, so that was a fair enough trade. The two boys chatted back and forth for a moment before saying goodbye. They stepped back a bit, watching as their friend went to leave.

 

Turning he shoved his helmet on and tugged the strap tight, making sure his bag was tight against him again for the ride. "Yup, all set," he said, grabbing his Uncle's arm as he climbed onto the bike. He scooted closer and coiled his arms around the man, his glasses already off and in his pocket. He grinned, not much unlike his Uncle and waved to his friends before they took off; leaving the park behind.

 

Once home he climbed off with help, pulling his glasses out to prop back on his nose after the helmet was pulled off. He sniffed slightly, rubbing his red nose on the scarf. It had been slightly chilly for the rides, but he didn't mind. Hearing his Uncle comment on lunch he nodded, already feeling his stomach growl in answer to that suggestion. He was almost always hungry. "Whoa!," he cried, being tossed over the mans shoulder like a sack of potato's; and light ones at that. He laughed joyfully and threw his arms out like he was flying half up-side down; his short locks tumbling with gravity.

 

"He won't mind, so long as we eat it and don't complain it's cold!" He would have said more but he was too busy squealing as he was attacked in a very ticklish area. "Ahah-hahah, noooo!" He squirmed and squirmed until he had to be put down to remove his coat, bag and scarf. He plopped them all in a chair in the dining room and immediately went to his seat; flushed from the adventure. A large salad piled with nuts, cheese, hard boiled eggs and carrot shavings was waiting, along with some very wonderful home made dressing. Cameron hummed and stabbed into it with a fork, taking the first bite with a sound of content. The rest of his lunch was brought out shortly after he'd shaved half the salad down to size.

[StainedCrimson]

Ryuuchi chuckles while letting the boy down to take off his coat and sit down for lunch. "I guess that means we'd best keep our mouths shut hmm?" Settling at his own spot, he starts to eat as well though slower than the ravenous boy. Nodding his thanks for the next part of the meal as he finishes his own salad, he enjoys the meal in a comfortable silence.

 

Once most of the food has been eaten he finally talks to the other. "So did you have fun with your friends Cam-chan?" He asks with a small smile. He knows very well the little guy had fun, but is also sure that he wants to share all the details with his 'cool uncle Ryuu'. But more than that he knows that outside of Cameron's friends there's really no one else he can just jabber away with. What with his father being gone all the time and all.

 

Nodding and smiling while making small sounds now and then to encourage the boy to keep chatting away, they finish off lunch. "Alright brat, I have to go home and clean up for my meeting. I'll be back after it alright?" He ruffles the kid's hair with a small smile. With that he turns to grab his bag and get back on his bike to head out.

 

Once on it, he starts up and peels out of the driveway to make time. Unlike with Cameron, he shifts and accelerates to quickly reach over 80 and it continues to climb. Reaching his complex, Ryuuchi parks his bike and quickly goes up to shower, change and get his materials in order. Once ready he goes back to work and gets his meeting underway. Sitting at the front of the table, he watches and listens with only half of his attention. His thoughts of Cameron taking up his mind along with how to bring the subject up to his friend.

[|WW|]

Cameron continued the meal by jabbering away about the secret fort and what all the boys had discussed within. It may have been a secret place, but cam never hid secrets from his Uncle. That was just unheard of. Once the meal was completed the boy followed Ryu to the door, offering a hug regardless of the promise to see him later that day. He always had hugs available, especially since there was no one else to accept them. "Be careful," he yelled out the door as his Uncle started up the bike. He waved and closed the door, sighing lightly as he drug his bag with him upstairs, back to his room. He figure there was something he could find to do till that evening.

 

After Ryuuichi's meeting had ended, his cell shrilled softly in his pocket. The number was familiar, and it so happened to be cameron's Father. The deep baritone jumped out as soon as Ryu cared to answer. "Ryu, glad I could catch you. You aren't busy currently, correct?" He man only waited a few seconds before continuing as though what he had to say was far more important than waiting for a full explanation. "I'm overseeing the title exchange for the Los Angeles branch remodeling, but it seems there's a lot more to be done here. I know I promised my son I'd be home this weekend, but that won't be possible because of a hold on the property from the other party." He waved his ringed hand as though it wasn't a big deal, though his friend couldn't see the motion.

 

"I was calling to see if you could stop in on him this weekend as well. I'll lift any work you have and give it to someone else if you don't have the time." He cleared his throat, covering the phone to speak with someone in the background for a moment. The words "just get it done" being part of the muffled not so polite exchange. "So, what do you say?" He'd came back on, expecting an answer. They may have been friends, but over the years cam's Father had a nasty habit of being very expectant of the other.

[StainedCrimson]

"Fortunately for you I've just finished up a meeting, so yes I have the time..." He replies in a drawling dry tone. This was something that has been getting on his nerves as of late. Listening to his friend speak, his eye twitches slightly. While he doesn't mind helping his friend out with Cameron, this being taken for granted and being expected to help out at the drop of a hat has worn extremely thin. With a long deep sigh he prepares the task of talking to his friend, all the while hoping that it won't blow up in his face.

 

"As you know I have no issue looking in on Cam, but this back and forth business is getting ridiculous and tiresome. Instead of going over every now and then due to work along with going home, just let him stay with me at my place while you're gone. Not only will it be easier to juggle work and time, but Cam will have someone he's comfortable with on a more regular basis." Taking a deep breath then letting it out slowly, he continues. "This business of infrequent check-ins has to end and you need to be home more. While I love Cam and seeing him, I'm not his father and to be frank it's starting to feel like that's the role I've taken on. Not too mention I'm half convinced he's forgetting that you're even real."

 

David waited this time, not butting in as usual. He'd known this sort of thing would come up eventually. He didn't like confrontation with a friend, let alone his own kid. Ever since his wife had passed he just didn't know what to -do- with the child. He could have been a good Father if he would have had his Wife with him still. He was sure of it. She'd been his strength, his life, his everything. Now all he saw was a child that looked like a young boyish-mirror of a love long gone. It was painful. He'd buried himself in work, like a machine that just couldn't rest without someone to hit the power off. He was a coward.

 

"Don't you have a life of your own? How could taking on a kid make things any easier on you? While I'm somewhat thrilled at the prospect, just dumping him on you is not exactly bahavior between friends," he commented dryly. "And I would come home more if I saw the need too. I'm going to be blunt about this, I just don't have the time to worry about what that child does. I've got a business and people that depend on me, and that's a hell of a lot more lives than just one." He sounded a bit agitated at this point. "Cam is an understanding boy, I'm sure he gets that I'm busy trying to support him as well as others. he can't always take number one Ryuuchi, that's just how it needs to be."

 

Ryuuchi jolts upright and slams his fist on the table, voice rising slightly. Not outright yelling, no. But for someone who has almost never raised his voice, it is clearly noticeable. "It wouldn't be a damn issue if you did place your son first. That is what it means to be a father. If you don't give your consent then I'll just take him with me anyway. Consequences be damned as I won't just abandon that child like you seem willing to do." His tone scathing and fed up. "What would your wife think if she were still alive to see this? If nothing else it doesn't say much about your character where you're a clear workaholic that neglects his eight year-old son and expect him to understand grownup concepts. What that boy understands is that he rarely see his father and that the house is quiet and empty with no one to spend time with that is family and is expected to perfectly behaved." Taking a deep breath to calm himself slightly, though tension and anger are still boiling under his tone, he continues. "Today we had to drop by the office for a moment and do you know what he did? He went completely emotionless when he asked if we had to greet you. There was no joy or excitement at the thought of seeing you, his father."

 

David held the phone out from his ear slightly, amazed at the tone he was receiving. He sat in stunned silence, for once not exactly sure what to say. He'd been yelled at before when they were a bit younger, but never had he been chastised like this. He'd managed to anger his friend and pour gasoline on the fire each time he asked a favor. A favor he could have not needed if he were a true parent. "Ah," he sighed, leaning back in his chair heavily. "You know you're frightening in business endeavors, but what I just heard wasn't merely anger. It was affection. I know because I used to have that with my wife. What would she think Ryuuchi? I wouldn't know," he trailed off. Closing his eyes, considering the seriousness of the conversation, he decided. It was time for him to be truthful. "Take him Ryu.. if he means that much to you, then at least he has that connection with someone worth having it. As awful as it sounds I just can't bring myself to be this Father everyone expects of me. I'm not who I used to be, and I don't see that changing." He peered up at the ceiling, his voice going ever so quiet. "I can bare the shame if it means he'll be happy. But you, my friend," he paused, "you hold an even more fragile position. Yes, he loves you dearly."

 

Sitting in disbelief, he just sits there for a few moments. Then anger bursts up and out of him. Anger that had been building for years. "Take him? Take him?!?! That's your response?! Not so much as a thought of trying to be a father to him and treasuring the last gift she had to give you, but just willingly toss him to the side?" His tone once again starts to rise but soon settles into an icy coldness. "Oh I know he loves me David. And I love that little boy back. However, despite that love I cannot and will not take the position of his father for you. I'll take him home for the weekend, but upon your return you and I will be having a very serious talk." With that he hangs up on his friend. His hand shaking from the contained rage as he tries to calm himself.

 

Getting up, things in hand, he passes his secretary. "I'm taking the weekend off. Make sure no one contacts me unless it's an absolute emergency." His tone is short, clipped and he doesn't stop to look at the secretary who stammers out an an agreement looking startled. Turning off his phone he hops on his phone and rides incredibly aggressive back to the house and little Cameron. At least there's one good thing out of all of this. He'll be able to give the boy a weekend to remember and just enjoy quality time together.

 

Once at the house he goes to find the eight year-old after having composed himself and greets the small child with a big smile that's only a tad strained. "Hey there brat. Be grateful that I'm so amazing and awesome because I got your dad to agree to you staying at my place this weekend." Kneeling down and ruffling the boy's hair with one hand he continues. "Now hurry up and pack your bag with what you'll need so we can head out."

[|WW|]

Cameron was found in his room, reading while sprawled among a pile of beanbags and pillows. He liked the spot near his window because when the sun did shine it poured in and made him feel like a cat napping or enjoying the warmth. It was always quiet and peaceful, with no one to bother him. The ones who did bother him, were of course approved of; one of which came into his room without him even knowing they'd arrived. "Wow, you're earlier than I thought," he exclaimed, setting his book aside to scramble out from the pile of squishy seats. When he got to the edge of the comfy mass the hand that ruffled his hand seemed different somehow, but he couldn't put a reason as to why. Regardless of the difference the words that came out next had his eyes widening.

 

"R-realyy?! You mean I can go to your house?" He looked like someone had given him the impossible. Ryuuchi had always come to his house. Sure they'd stopped at his Uncle's place before, but it was always quick and they never stayed more than ten or twenty minutes at the most. Enough time for a shower, or phone call. Change of clothes or grabbing work related documents; everything was rushed. Cameron stared in disbelief, his jaw comically drooping like it might somehow reach the floor like one of those ridiculous cartoons.

 

"Okay! yeah, I, I'll get ready," he stammered, at a loss and so excited he didn't know how to contain it. He stumbled out of his pile of pillows and rushed to his closet, grabbing out a large duffle bag. Plopping it on his bed he went to his dresser and began rooting around for anything and everything he could to make some sort of outfit. Usually the nanny picked but he knew well enough what went with what. And he chose some things that were far more casual than usual, thinking of a slumber party and the fun things they might do.

 

He tried to arrange everything so not to wrinkle the whole bag full and almost had to sit on the bag just to close it. He escaped the room once, then twice when after he'd grabbed his toothbrush he realized he'd forgot his comb and deodorant. When the bag was completely bursting at the seams, to Ryu's amusement most likely- he stood nearly vibrating in excitement next to his bed. "Can we bring the chess board too?"